Random Notes from My Day

from Ben's mom

In a surprise to my pessimistic household, the Washington State Supreme Court upheld the state Defense of Marriage Act in a 5-4 decision. It was close and the dissent was strong so I suspect it won't hold for too long, but it was a pleasant surprise. The local newspaper emailed for a comment and I am somewhat chicken about going on the record. My husband is already hated by liberals and I am not sure I want to risk any repercussions to my family. (I think it is sad we live in a society that can't engage in free speech without fear of extremist reactions.)

Ben and I took a walk with a friend to downtown Olympia to visit the herbalist, but stayed far enough away from the Capitol to avoid all the media and protesters. We did find the coolest toy store which Ben had to be carried out of. They had a lot of things out for kids to play with and I was able to come up with some good ideas (modeling clay? magnetic playboards) for our upcoming plane trip. I plan to spring for a few new things for the trip to keep him occupied. Any suggestions experienced parents have will be appreciated.

I had another visit to the midwife this morning and everything is on schedule. I have one minor test result that could complicate labor (GBS) but I have 11 weeks to try to change it before they will make a decision about whether to put me on IV antibiotics during labor. (Thus the trip to the herbalist.) The baby has lodged into a head-down position and is kicking me a lot these days. (Can you imagine being confined in one spot for 3 months?) I feel huge but the midwife says my weight and and measurements are as they should be and I am not to worry.