The next day, Nathan and Elizabeth decided to tell Allie and little Jack about the baby on the plot of land that their new house would soon be built. They knew it was the perfect setting to share such an important moment.
After church that bright afternoon, they packed a picnic and headed to the land.
After everyone had enjoyed some sandwiches and lemonade, Elizabeth stood up, looking at the wide expanse of land that would soon be their home.
"So, kids," said Nathan, "we have something to tell you."
"What is it?" said Jack.
"We're gonna build a house on this land."
"That's awesome!" said Allie. "Can I get a bay window? I've seen them before and think they're so cool."
"I think that can be arranged." Allie smiled widely and thanked them.
"Allie, Jack, we have something else to tell you, well, to show you," Elizabeth said, her eyes twinkling with excitement. She pulled out a small, folded piece of paper from her pocket and handed it to Allie.
Curious, Allie unfolded the paper. It was the floor plan of their new house. Allie studied the paper, looking at her future home, when her eyes landed on the words "Baby's Room", which were written in Elizabeth's handwriting.
Allie's eyes widened as she looked up at Elizabeth and Nathan. "Does this mean what I think it means?" she asked, her voice full of excitement.
Nathan smiled, wrapping an arm around Elizabeth. "Yes, Allie. We're going to have a baby," he said, his voice filled with pride.
Little Jack looked at his mother, his eyes wide with wonder. "A baby? Really?" he asked, his small voice filled with amazement.
Elizabeth nodded. "Yes, Jack. You're going to be a big brother," she said softly, her eyes shining with tears of joy.
Jack's face broke into a big grin, and he hugged Elizabeth tightly. Allie joined in, wrapping her arms around both of them. Nathan joined the group hug, his heart full as he held his family close.
The kids were thrilled, and they spent the rest of the afternoon running around the plot, imagining their new house and all the adventures they would have together. It was a perfect day, full of love, excitement, and dreams of the future.
After the picnic, Allie took Jack home so they could talk to Lee about purchasing the lumber for the land. He said that he could get the lumber delivered the next week and that a crew could have the house done before the baby was born.