Nesting, Maternity Photos, etc.

I think the nesting has begun! Over the last two weeks we have purchased a car seat, pack 'n play and baby bath tub. Tonight I painted Parker's letters for above her crib. Brad assembled the swing and car seat/base. I have her clothes organized by size and ready to be washed tomorrow. There is still a lot to do and a lot to buy, but it's feeling a little more organized, which is a huge relief! At least no matter when she decides to arrive she can come home now that we have a car seat!

Last weekend we took maternity photos through Sarah Watkins Photography. It was very fun and comfortable. Sarah came to the house with all of her gear since it was a very stormy day. In fact, the tornado sirens went off while we were waiting for her to arrive. The sneak peek photos we got are wonderful! I can't wait to see the rest!

That night (October 23) Parker dropped considerably. I went to sleep looking one way, and woke up with her sitting much, much lower. I can't wait to see what the doctor has to say next week. We start weekly appointments on November 2.

Pregnancy Perks

Today we used the "expectant mom" parking for the first time. We went to Babies R Us to buy a car seat and figured that between the rain and the heavy car seat we would be carting out we could use the parking spot this time. Not to mention it's a lot easier to waddle into the store from there than the back of the parking lot!

Baby Shower

Today was the such an amazing baby shower hosted by Kristi, Jen and Mom. What a beautiful afternoon! Classy and cute! It was held in the art gallery at the McKinney Performing Arts Center.

It was so great that so many friends and family were there. I hate that you never get to visit with everyone enough in a situation like that, but it was wonderful to have everyone in the same place.

We came home with so many great baby items, but also with some hilarious diaper messages for those late night changings, and encouraging/inspiring messages from experienced parents. I think the photos say more than what I can write eloquently here, so here are a few.

Crape Myrtle Run

Daddy made a big splash at the Crape Myrtle Run today. He ran the 5K in preparation for November's half marathon and to support my school. When he checked his time he discovered he'd placed 3rd in his age bracket! He was only 14 seconds behind the 2nd place winner, which definitely played on his mind and competitive side. But, we are so proud of him!! He placed in the race and he wasn't even trying!

In the meantime I walked the 1 mile fun run route. I found one of the other art teachers who was there in support of her school and we walked together. It was fun and I have to say it's much easier to walk my mile in the morning than it is when I try to go after school! Once we sat down at home for some breakfast (or in my case an after breakfast snack of a yogurt parfait) Parker really got moving and grooving. I guess she enjoyed the walk, too!

On a side note, all 3 men that walked in support of our school placed in the race. One of the teachers placed in her age bracket as well as the daughter of one of the teachers. We might not have had the largest group, but we were evidently there to perform!

7 Months Complete!

As we enter month 8 I have to say that I've "finally" had some uncomfortable days. I certainly can't complain, but I do enjoy a nap after school daily when possible so I can get off my feet. Our last appointment went well. We are only measuring 1.5 cm over average so we're starting to trim back in to normal. Glucose and protein tests were passed with flying colors as well. The blood pressure is going up, however, so the doctor made us aware of induction dates if necessary. While our growth ultrasound allowed us to keep the December 1 due date, November 24 and 17 were presented as viable dates to induce if my blood pressure continues to rise. Hopefully we won't have to resort to that, but it's better to be prepared!