growing up.

I've been having contractions for nearly 24 hours now, and all the signs of an impending labor and childbirth are present. It's an exciting time, indeed, as my fear of childbirth slowly morphs into an incredible urge to get this show on the road. What were the chances that I would begin labor (if this is indeed labor--I'm pretty sure it is the beginning) on the day of Jeff's best friend's wedding? When Bryan asked Jeff to be his best man I believe my exact words were, "Don't worry--what are the chances that I'll go into labor on that particular day?" Lo and behold...

Jeff just left for pre-wedding preparations. Tuxedo Junction forgot to include his tux pants so that caused some unneeded commotion this morning. He felt so guilty leaving. All morning he kept his stopwatch in his hand (he even brought it with him when he went into the bathroom to shower) so that he could fulfill his primary duty as "coach." Before he left, we sat snuggling on the couch watching CNN. We laughed about China's efforts to "go green" during the Olympics. (Who knew China was so ecologically atuned?!)

At that moment it occurred to me that it could possibly be the last moment Jeff and I would enjoy as a family of two. While I am looking forward to celebrating the birth of our little Grace, I also feel a sense of mourning for the loss of our solitude; our weekend mornings of sleeping in, watching Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and sharing a breakfast of waffles and sausage in front of the TV; our midday naps and long evening walks to Yummies. I do realize we will still be able to do these things, but they'll evolve around Gracie's feeding and sleep schedules instead of our own selfish whims.

I once decalared ever-so-pedantically to my sister that a sign of adulthood is one's ability (and willingness) to consider how our life's decisions impact others in addition to ourselves. It's something that's definitely easier preached than practiced. Today Jeff and I live for our marriage and our friendships (with each other and with others) as we celebrate Bryan and Jill's marriage hoping against hope that Grace's arrival will delay even just long enough to get us through the ceremony.

Tomorrow, we will likely be living for our family.