I'm back!

... although you may be wondering where I've been! Apologies for the lack of posting but Clare and I have spent the last 2 weeks in Southwold doing a Scripture Union Beach Mission there. This is basically a Christian activity camp for kids with lots of fun and mess going on. I was involved with 5-7 year olds, but unfortunately, Clare had to take it easy because she has some extra fluid (more about this in a mo!).

Nevertheless, it has been a great time to gain some perspective and focus on God some more. A huge thanks to the team who have consistently made us feel loved and supported.

During the two weeks, we have had two further scans at Addenbrookes. The highlights of these are:

• Clare's amniotic fluid level has gone up. This is to be expected with Achondroplasia, because the baby does not swallow as much of the fluid as he should. Consequently, Clare is much larger and more uncomfortable than before. The increased levels means that he may well arrive early, but we’re hoping to make it to at least early September. (The due date is October 10^th)
• Baby's legs are growing! The femur is now about 37mm which is still short (even by dwarf standards!) but on the charts, he is growing at closer to the normal rate.
• Head and chest are normal size, with no evidence of frontal bossing
• CCAM is probably still present, but diminishing in size as his lungs are growing.
• He has hair! And by the looks of it, he’ll have a curly mop, just like his dad!
• We now have to go for weekly scans at Addenbrookes

The next major decision is where to have him delivered, Ipswich or Addenbrookes. We were reluctant about Ipswich after our previous encounter and really praying about what the right thing to do was. The way God has blessed us with the people we have met will probably form the basis for a completely different post, but we ran into someone at the mission who had nothing but praise for the way they helped when her twins arrived early. This has put our mind much more at rest about Ipswich. Our next appointment is on Thursday so please think of us as we make more definite plans about that.

As I mentioned, Clare is feeling much more uncomfortable and less mobile because of the extra fluid. The baby’s position seems to give her lots of pain in her ribs. This is coupled with painful hips as well because apparently… (the things you learn!)… these get looser in pregnancy! Clare has found this worse at night. A pillow between her legs seems to help but makes turning over a bit of a mission. Remember her in your prayers!

So, I'm back to regular blogging...keep tuning in!

For I know the plans I have for you," declares the LORD, "plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future."
Jeremiah 29 v11