Heartbeats and baby gifts

Yesterday was my 2nd prenatal doctor’s visit at which I heard the baby’s heartbeat! It was nice and strong -- the doctor’s word was “Perfect!” According to her, it was at just the right speed and sounded just like it should. I was just happy to hear it and be reassured once again that the little life inside of me was doing well! Our next appointment and the “big” ultrasound are scheduled for March 26th -- at that point, if we decide we want to, we can find out if it is a boy or a girl.

I have also posted a picture of some of our first baby gifts. The bunny’s name is Baxter and is sure to become a constant companion of little Lauer. The onsies and socks are from one of the coach’s in Josh’s club... it is funny to try to find a place to store baby clothes when there are still days I don’t even feel pregnant!!

Leave of Absence

I have been teaching 7th grade science for TEN years! That is sometimes hard for me to believe. I taught for 4 years at Cross Keys Middle School in Ferguson-Florissant and now 6 years at North Kirkwood Middle School in Kirkwood.

Now, with Little Lauer on the way, we are considering the possibility of me taking next year off from teaching. My principal has graciously agreed to hold my spot, hiring a permanent sub for the year. What a blessing! It is weird to think of NOT being in the classroom next year but exciting to imagine the fun I will have at home with Beano (once I figure out how in the world to take care of a baby!)

I have also begun a conversation with our district science facilitator about doing some contract work from home -- they definitely could use the help and I think it would help me stay connected to department during my year away. It would also give us a little financial cushion... but it is still in the very beginning stages of the discussion. We’ll have to wait and see!