Monday, July 28, 2008

The Waiting Game

A friend told us that the third trimester would go by very slowly, but we could not possibly imagine it would crawl along like this. We cruised through the first 8 months of this pregnancy. Now it has come to a standstill. We spend a lot of time staring at her rather large belly, wondering what that little one is waiting for (and how it is going to get out).

This time has, however, been great for taking care of quite a few final preparations. On the “First Time Parents Scale,” which runs from 1 to Crazy, I think we fall somewhere in the middle. Take a look at some of our setup below and let us know if you agree.


A few people have told us the Brianne doesn't seem miserable enough to be about to have a baby. She feels almost as great as she looks, so you won't hear any complaints from me.

























This is how we typically pass the time.




















The car seat is secure and ready to roll.





















The stroller is set for some neighborhood walks.





























Our bags are packed and eagerly anticipating a couple days at the local hospital.



























Brianne has picked two outfits to ensure our little girl will be irresistable and decidely feminine . . .



















. . . and a few to show the dapper side of our little boy.

















We've gathered the bear necessities for emotional and physical strength.





















We have two beautiful blankets that will make the trip to the hospital. The white was brought by the Easter Bunny. The green one is incredibly soft and will be perfect for wrapping up our little baby burrito.



























Installation of the new shelves went very well courtesy of Dapa Johnson.




























I have tried many times to get Brianne to give away some (most) of these darn children's books. My arguments in favor of saving space and utilizing the library fell on deaf ears. I think some things are "in the blood," and books are certainly in hers. There is now plenty of excess shelf space . . . we'll see how long it lasts.




















A few favorite board books to get the little one started right. Included is "Guess How Much I love you," which Brie actually gave me while we are dating. Please don't overanalyze that one.



















The baby's closet is taking shape. Brianne sorted all of the gender neutral clothing by size, and my dad put in some extra shelves and drawers on the sides.




















This was a gift from Nama Johnson, and I was happy to get it. Nothing says crazy-first-time-parent like a doorknob decoration proclaiming our baby a star.



















My skill is improving at setting up the mini prison, but speed is still lacking.




























I think deep down we hoped that completing all the preparations would send some sort of signal to the baby, like "okay, you can come on out now." It seems our little one lacks a sense of urgency, much like its father. We're left playing the waiting game.

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

The Shower!!

Thank you to all of those who were able to come to the shower and those who were unable to attend. We are overwhelmed by your generosity. A special thanks goes out to Jennifer who prepared all the games and prizes, Emily who brought the cake, and Mom, Muihrienne, Elizabeth and Daniel who helped with all of the last minute decorating and details, and Alise who made it all happen.



Delicious food, prepared by Alise














Tested by Daniel













Alise and Muihri working hard to get things ready













Daniel was in charge of helium balloons.













Don't they look nice?













Alise and Grammy having a loving moment













Diaper cake made by mom, complete with bib rosettes and handmade chocolates












Diaper cake given by Jenny with beautiful flowers and bows (ordered back in December by a very excited sister-in-law)











I'm not sure what I said, but it must have been very shocking.












One of the cuties at the shower... baby Abby (with mom and April)












Baby Graham and Grammy admire the balloons.













Alise way overestimates my girth!













Muihrienne gets a little closer!












Proud parents-to-be













Admiring the homemade gifts Grammy made













Chatting with friends













Hostesses Alise and Muihrienne













Mom, Nana, Grandmama Shaunana, Grandmom, Grandie, Dearie, Granna.... we're taking suggestions on the grandma name!












The organizer













Muihrienne presents a beautiful bracelet made by Aunt Jennifer, the beads represent the strengths of the women in our wonderful families.













Mom and Alise












1st, 2nd, and 3rd trimester picture is now 2nd, 3rd and "4th trimester." Welcome baby Abigail.













Front view













Dad-to-be with Dad's root beer... he needs the real stuff after such a long day of helping!
















Mom taking a break after the shower













Alise and Muihrienne taking relaxing after all the festivities













Mom-to-be... ready to pass out after the party!