It's a ...

BOY!

That's right, we're having a baby boy!!!!! We are so excited! Our Iowa sonogram isn't until next week, but that was way too long to wait, so if you know my mother, you know she has connections. She hooked us up with a free sonogram in Dallas for us to find out the baby's gender with family. Josh and I were hoping for a boy, but trying to be prepared for either. Rebekah wanted a sissy, so we'll have to deal with that later. The whole experience was hilarious- Mom, Dad, Josh, Rebekah, Becky, Riley, and I all trotted into the lab and the doctor was super-patient with all the extra folks. I didn't realize he had even started due to the fact that my own daughter was sobbing out of worry for me! She ended up having to sit next to me to ensure that I was okay or leave with my mom. Anyway, during those few seconds, Dr. Toofanian announced, "Well, first off, it's a boy!" I started crying out of shock and embarassment for my unborn son as his scrotum (I can feel Amanda blushing) were highlighted again and again for effect. Apparently, he is definitely a boy- Texas-sized, according to the good doctor. (Amanda is blushing again and deciding if it is worth reading further.)

So, Rebekah is still reeling from the news- not really, she of course has no idea how much her life is going to change- I don't think I do either! However, we are excited and now just have to think of a good name, which will still be a surprise. Josh's parents are calling him Little Josh, which amuses us.

As for the rest of the trip, we are having a blast! Rebekah ADORES her cousin Rirey (aka Riley) and looks for her everywhere in the house and in the car, calling out her name in frustration when she can't find her. All 4 grandparents are loving their time with her and us- it's mutual!

We are also learning that Rebekah is very particular about being clean- she fusses about dirty hands, even if it's just a speck until I clean it off. She won't even consider going down the slide until she has meticulously cleaned it. I guess my OCD tendencies are coming through afterall.

Well, time to finish Thanksgiving preparations...have a good one!