Shake, rattle, and roll....

We're official...Californians, that is! Matt and I survived our first earthquake this week. On Monday night we were hanging out when we heard a slight rattling of the windows followed by a loud crashing sound similar to what you might expect to hear if a large truck passes by your house and then veers and runs right into your house. The earthquake was a 4.1 on the scale which is considered merely "light." Bummer...I was scared by the "light" one--I can't wait for the serious one! I know earthquakes come with the territory, but I gotta say I am no friend to earthquakes. But all the locals assure me that I will get used to these strange geological occurences. We'll see.

In other news, I had my first doctor's visit yesterday. It was pretty standard as I imagine the first appointment of the first pregnancy is for any woman in the US. I was hoping that the appointment would contain more "evidence" of life swimming in my belly, but alas we were given the run down of all the genetic and developmental abnormalities/diseases our baby could have and what test we should have to determine if the baby has it. Matt and I looked at each other after each one thinking, "Well, even if Mattalina has xyz what difference does that make?" Well, rest assured the nurse practicioner saw that exchanged look and shared that early detection gives you "options." One of said options that she mentioned at least 2 times was termination! I was shocked and astounded. I know abortion is legal in America, but I was not prepared for my OB doctor to mention (I dare say even promote) the idea of it in my pregnancy visits. That took me by surprise.

The doctor tried to locate the sound of the heartbeat, but she said the baby needed about 3 more weeks and then we could hear the rapid heartbeat of the tiny one. I'll admit, I was praying I would be able to hear the heartbeat. So far the only proof I have had of life in my belly is 2 pink lines and some nausea. I am ready for more satisfying proof. But I prayed to God, as the doctor put the doppler machine away, that I would trust in him to grow this baby. That is my prayer in these early months when I cannot feel or see my baby...I know Mattalina is in God's hands.

Well, that is all the news for now. Matt and I are headed to the store to shop for the 2nd Annual Charlie Brown Christmas Party for the youth group we are hosting tomorrow night. Should be fun and festive. Have a great weekend, all.