O'Connell Family

 Dear Peanut, We had the 20 week anatomy scan this week! This was tough for me because I had to strategically look away from the ultrasound because we wanted to keep it a surprise if you were a boy or girl. You were acting very shy; you had both your arms and hands up crossed in front of your face! Your dad said you weren't shy, you were just dancing. Here are some pictures of you to share, you know they will be a little more nerdy and anatomical but this is what I do!  You weight 12 oz right now. I'm very relieved you are in the 55%. We know you will always be special, but an average weight is great right now! Ok here's the nerdy shot- its your spine and aortic arch! So pretty!  This one is admittedly creepy. Its your right eye and your moth is wide open yawning!  I'm sure I'll add a few more cute ones along the way :)

 Dear Peanut, I just accepted a new job at Kaiser. I worked very hard to become a doctor and am so proud to be an ObGyn. Every day I get to be a part of someone's life. Sometimes it is the best day of their life, and sometimes the worst. But either way, I love what I do. I guess you could say I've focused much of my energy on being a doctor up until this point. While I know I will always love my job and will continue to do it well, having you in my life does change things, and for the better. The reason I am changing my job, is so that I will have more flexibility and stability to be your mom. I have always been afraid of how to balance it all. I was so lucky to have incredible parents that were always there for me, and helped me through some incredibly challenging times. Your Dad is exactly the same. We both have big shoes to fill.  I know there may be times in the future that I am not home when you go to bed, and I may miss a sporting or school event. For that, I am so sorry...

 Dear Peanut, My belly is definitely getting bigger! I think I felt you move yesterday. Dad thinks it's hilarious that the little flutters I feel also kind of feel like gas. I can't wait until I feel some real kicks!  Your grandparents are dying to meet you. Right now, the pandemic is making it hard to travel; we just don't know if it is safe. We are trying to figure out how to get them all out to Denver for when you arrive.  Your cousins are also so excited for you. We still haven't been able to meet Ferne in person because of the difficulty with travel and Covid right now but we talk to her on Facetime all the time. She is the sweetest, cutest baby. Emmy, Ryan, and Owen are also so excited. Owie loves babies and I know he will adore you! Here is a message from Maeve and Maren....