Sugar and Spice

By now my friends are famous for their incredible ability to impress: my baby shower was no exception! It was very well organized and presented; I was amazed at the awesome outpouring of love and friendship.

Amy H., one of my sweet friends from my ward, organized and presented one of the most fun baby showers I've ever experienced. I felt super loved and supported by the impressive turn out of guests, the mega generous gifts, and the delicious party!

I've included a few of the 192 pictures that my sister and Dot took. I hope that you enjoy!

The most creative gift I've ever seen: compliments of Steph J. and Candice.

My childhood friend, Nicci L. and her darling McKelle.

An artistic shot of me... Cutie Pie Nicole T. (and her adorable Beth) playing the "What's That Smell?" game.

A basket of sweets for my sweet friends.

Dot's ballet teacher, Marcia, and my darling former student, Lacie.

Darling Robyn enjoying one of the many fun games.

Amy's amazing daughters: these ladies worked hard behind the scenes.

My sweet VT and neighbor, Carolyn N.

Oh, the food! Amy H. prepared a variety of my all time favorite salads and delicious rolls.

Ladies mingling and enjoying the spread.

High school buddy Steph J. and her BFF (what a doll!) Candice.

My super fun friend Heidi S. and mega classy Katherine.

This is what happens when you give Tiffanie a camera... she's such a blast!

Chatting with gorgeous Malisa.

Mandee Lue is so adorable!

It was so nice to have Debbie and her darling Kaleah!

One of my sweet "Birdie" friends, Jessie I. It was great to see her again!

Sonia, beautiful Sonia... it was so great to have you there!

The amazing and talented hostess... AMY H.! What a lady!

My sweet neighbor, Rachel M. and the super classy Katherine W.

Dot... what a gem! I am so blessed to have such a wonderful daughter!

As Tiffanie called it, "Preggo corner discussion"... I just love that gorgeous Emily H. and I are sharing this journey at the same time! She is one of my favorite people ever!

Lovely Megan S. is always such a delight!

Super funny and spunky Kim W. was able to drop in towards the end of the party: it is always a party when she's around!

Lora D. and her darling little boy were able to drop in, too. What a joy it is to have them around.

Although not every guest (unfortunately!) was not individually photographed, I hope that you all feel my thanks and appreciation for your part in this special day! Our baby Peanut is so loved! Thanks to all my darling friends who were there and there in spirit: it was so fun!

Thank you, Melissa, for being there in spirit: you were in my mind the whole time!

Thank you, Tiffanie, for representing the family. It was so great having you there! Thanks for helping out with photography, too.

Thank you, Dot, for helping out and being such a super big sister! Thanks for taking so many pictures.

Thank you, Amy, for giving me such a fabulous party and allowing an opportunity to spend some time with so many of my adorable friends! I appreciate all the hours of hard work, fun surprises, delicious food, fun games, and love that went into the party!

So Thoughtful!

The generousity of my sweet sister-in-law will never cease to amaze me! Thank you, Melissa! Thank you for the baby shower/early birthday gifts! I am so blessed to have you in my life.

Now... which one to read first? Yay!!!!!

Precious Moment

They say a picture is worth a thousand words...
I agree.

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Today is a triple holiday at our house: St. Patrick's Day, Porter's (my nephew) Birthday, and the second anniversary of being in our house! Happy Holidays!

Update

I just got the official word from my doctor that it is in the best interest of my little Peanut that I go on bed rest until she is born.

Thank you for your thoughts, prayers, and wishes for the best. Yes, I am bummed. Yes, I am disappointed. Yes, I know that I need to focus on the outcome rather than the now: I am doing my best to stay positive and focus on having a healthy baby.

Now, where are my balls of yarn and crochet hooks....

Wishful Thinking?

Today I have an appointment with my doctor. Among other things, we will learn how long/if I need to stay on bed rest. Maybe I'm just in denial, but there is a chance (albeit small...) that I can get up and about soon.

Here's to hoping!

Surprises!

This afternoon has been one of surprises: it's been such a nice day!

First off, my punks asked about doing a science experiment. We were finished with school work for the day, so I was taken back. Did they really want to do more? Apparently, this was just part of a game... not for anything but fun. No school work, no credit, just for fun.

I found my kids outside....

they built a volcano! Much to their pleasure and excitement, they learned that baking soda and vinegar really do make a cool volcano! I just wish I could have watched the whole thing.

You see, I have been placed on bed rest this week. (I will find out on Friday how long this should last.) As I was just finishing up reading another chapter of my book, Dot came in with a package. This is what was inside:

Melissa, you spoil us rotten; thanks so much! You know how usually when you say "lol" you are figuratively laughing out loud... well, the "Little Peanut" onesie literally made me "lol"! Thanks a million!