a full heart and the best news!

We had our 20 week ultrasound yesterday. A day that I am always super excited for- and super nervous for! Excited to find out the gender of the newest member of our family, and nervous to find out that little baby is all healthy and happy in there.

Yesterday we were able to find out both things. Baby looked great. Moved around a lot! All the organs, bones and other things looked perfect and it measured right on for where I am in my pregnancy. It brings tears to my eyes when I think of the blessings of 5 healthy, happy, beautiful children. As they looked over my baby, and the ultrasound tech continued to comment about how everything looked perfect- I thought of all those other mom's who don't get the same news. Who walk into that room with the same hopes and dreams that I did, that day- only to receive bad news. My heart was overflowing with gratitude, that again, our baby looked just perfect. For sure- that was the most important news we received yesterday. Heavenly Father continues to bless our family- in more ways that I can even comprehend.

But finding out that WE ARE HAVING A GIRL was definitely pretty exciting!Honestly, I had all my fingers and toes crossed for a baby girl. I do love my boys and I would have been just fine with a boy (really!) but wow, I sure was hoping for a sister for Addison. That's what it really came down to. I have always dreamed of Addie having a sister, just like I have. It's such a blessing- a best friend for life.

I think I was more anxious and excited about this ultrasound than the last 4. After getting the news, I just couldn't stop smiling. Of course this pregnancy definitely seems real now that I am 20 weeks, but finding out the gender is so exciting. I love to be able to pray for "her" now, or be able to refer to "her" when we are talking to the kids. I can't believe how much I already love her and am so thankful and honored to be her mommy.

I just want to take a minute to record my feelings, so that when my children read this many years from now, they will know how much their mommy loves them. As I sit here, thinking of their sweet faces, their strong healthy bodies and their sunshine smiles, I can't stop the tears. I had no idea, 7 years ago, how much these 5 little people would change my life. They mean everything to me. I would do anything for them and to ensure their happiness and health. I am amazed at how my heart keeps growing, with each new addition, and the love just multiplies. My goal for my children is simple- I want them to be happy, I want them to know their Savior, Jesus Christ and to love Him, just like I do. I want them to find happiness from choosing the right. I want them to be thankful, compassionate, kind people- who love each other and have a heart that is willing to serve. That's not asking too much, is it??

I guess it's time to wrap it up. The little ones are both still in bed upstairs, waiting for me. I am off to be a mommy- and I couldn't be happier about that.