On the first day of school...

Today the boys headed back to school with butterflies in their tummies and a look of anticipation on their faces. Matthew, our firstborn, is starting fourth grade. Can you believe it??? And Lucas entered what he calls "real school", i.e. first grade. A big day for moms and dads alike.

Last week was a busy one for those of living in this tiny part of the world. Steen's family arrived to help us celebrate Lucas's birthday on Monday night, and we had some great days together. It was great to see Carsten, Michelle, and our niece Emma again. I can't believe how big Emma is already, but her wonderful sweetness is not a surprise given how terrific her parents are.

Lucas turned 7 (unbelievable!) on Tuesday, a day filled with presents in the morning, a traditional Danish breakfast, a trip to an indoor playground, and dinner at his restaurant of choice: Jensens Bøfhus (translation: Jensens House of Beef). The main attraction at that restaurant, for a 7-year old at least, is the all-you-can-eat ice cream bar.

He held a birthday party with his friends on Saturday here at the house. I think everyone had a good time and I'll try to post some photos tomorrow. During the party, I was the beneficiary of a great deal of insight into the thought processes of 7-year-olds. Here are some of the comments/questions I received on the presence of a baby inside my body:

"Where do you get shirts that have such a big belly built into them?"

"Don't worry if you're going to have the baby right now. I know exactly what to do. We will need some hot water, towels, some scissors, and something to sew with and I can take care of everything."

And last, but not least, was the comment from my own son:

"Mommy, you are beautiful. But you sure are fat!"

Yes, yes, they bring us tons of smiles and plenty to laugh about.

Yesterday we went on a mission to find a buggy/stroller for the baby and have picked out one from Emmaljunga. We ordered it but are now awaiting news on how long it will take to have it delivered. To our surprise, we found out that we are running way behind the typical Swedish family on this issue, as delivery of a buggy takes between 6 and 10 weeks!!!! Hm... and the baby is due in 5.

Here's a photo. When the baby is little, it will sleep in the flat one, and when he's bigger (yes, the ultrasound technician say it's a boy for those of you who don't know yet) he'll be in the seated one. They are interchangable.