"These contraction things really hurt."

For the last week or so, Crystalyn has been experiencing what she has described as cramps, backache, discomfort, nausea and tightness in her stomach. The occurrences have been sparse and we realize that her body is probably just practicing for the big show. We just haven't been using the C word (contractions) to describe these events. Just in the last few days, her energy and general comfort levels have really dropped. We were lying on the sofa tonight watching Biggest Loser when for the first time my sweet wife declared to me, "These contraction things really hurt." I feel this is probably the first indication of whats to come in the next couple of weeks.

The facts: We know what to watch for. We know how we are supposed to react. We have just about everything we need to do this. We have a plan. For all practical purposes WE ARE READY. Having said that, I am completely aware that we have absolutely no idea what will happen next and we will probably be playing the entire thing by ear. And that's cool, too.

We just can't wait to meet her. (and kiss her elbows... and toes and dimples and ears... and so on)