3 1/2 and almost 8 Months

     I figured it was only appropriate to not just discuss being a mom to my daughter but also being pregnant with baby number 2. I have to say that three has been a scary age because of the mood swings, tantrums and independence. However, it is also wonderful because it is the age when I can finally have a conversation with my daughter and truly feel a connection of mutual understanding (when she chooses to that is). We can share more activities together and she is able to help me with all different things. I am pretty sure that the fun of cleaning with mommy or daddy will wear off, but I will enjoy it while it lasts. A typical day in my house is my daughter Irelyn waking up around 7AM and arriving at my bedside with a pajama top or nightgown without any underpants. It is followed by her asking me to assist her with putting on her Cinderella or Snow White dress up dresses on her. That is usually my que to get out of bed and begin my day. I use to pop out of bed and begin my morning routine, but now being about 8 months pregnant I am moving a little slower. Thankfully I have a very helpful daughter that understands when mommy tells her, "Irelyn you need to help mommy because I cannot bend over". She loves to tell me how my belly looks like a balloon that is going to pop (that's the way to make mommy feel awesome). She climbs into her car seat on her own (big help since lifting her up and angling her in the backseat can be a challenge right now). Why we are discussing the car I should probably mention EVERY time we get into the car I am prompted to put on her "princess music" (which is a collection of Disney princess songs I compiled on a CD for the car-thinking this was a bad idea now). I think my husband and I can recite every song in our sleep. However, when you hear her sing along to the songs you cannot help but smile.
        I think four is a good age to welcome another baby into our home and I am excited and a little scared to see how Irelyn will react to welcoming a new baby brother. She enjoys feeling the baby kick and watching my belly move. She also is testing the waters asking where the baby will be in the car and if he will he block her view out the window (of course very serious concerns). She has many helpful suggestions like having the baby sit in the trunk of the car as opposed to "her" backseat. When mommy now goes shopping, the clothing is not only for her but for the baby. When I try to be enthusiastic and ask her if he will look good in outfits, she gives a quick, yeah! However, when we wants to go to the store or get a new outfit or toy she suggests we go out to buy something for the baby (I have a to say a clever idea). I sometimes think I am over thinking and worrying about the transition for her, especially when I schedule her birthday party for a week after my due date.