THE dreaded call.

Yesterday I get a call from a number I don't recognize on caller ID. A woman is on the other line and starts by introducing herself (after verifying who I was), "Hi this is Jane, and I am the geneticist at Balboa Navy Hosptial"....uh oh. My AFP came back at a 1:42 chance that baby #4 has Downs Syndrome. My # should have been at least 1:365. Now, I am not panicked or worried. This test is famous for its high rates of false +. So, she goes on to say, "you will come in Thursday for a detailed u/s by a specialist and it will last 60-90 minutes - what time is best 10:30am or 11am?" Guess there is no getting of that Thursday huh? Luckily I call L. and she can babysit the kids. But I already have an u/s scheduled for Aug. 2nd, I say. And the lady chuckles and says...oh no, sweetie, this one will be much more detailed and thourough...we will go ahead and cancel the one for you on Aug. 2nd. Ok then.

The worst part by far was having to notify Hubby of this development via e-mail. How cold and impersonal. I can't imagine opening that e-mail and reading the news. But phones aren't exactly handy when bobbing around in the deep sea some 6000+ miles away. He got the e-mail, and responded back already - and I must say he is such a great husband! He was so supportive, and encouraging. While he is sad that he can't be here at this time - he was very reassuring about his undying love for this baby regardless of what the outcome is. He is also in agreement with me that we will wait and have the amnio at 34 weeks. No need to risk loosing a baby we have every intention of keeping and loving no matter what the test shows.

So onward Christian soldier! We shall see what Thursday brings.