New Years Eve

Happy New Years! Jeff and I spent a relaxing New Years Eve having dinner at a favorite Italian restaurant nearby. We spent most of the time discussing possible names for our little peanut. While no final decision has been made, we are getting close! Sorry-- you'll have to wait until she's here to find out what we decide! We're currently relaxing at home with the dogs waiting for the ball to drop. We hope all of our family and friends are enjoying the last evening of 2008!

Merry Christmas!

Wishing you and your family a very Merry Christmas! We had a wonderful and relaxing Christmas with both Jeff's family and my family. It's hard to believe that 2008 is almost over and our little girl will be here in a mere six weeks! It's the home stretch! We're standing with our dogs... Garth is sitting on the left while Brutus is shaking his head on the right.

Looking good!

Now that I'm nearing my due date, I've been seeing my doctor every two weeks (soon to change to once a week). She's delighted as to how well I'm doing. I am on target with my weight, belly size, fetal heartbeat, and fetal movements. The weight is the biggest relief as I've been working hard on my diet from the dietitian. I've become a professional on counting carbs, but boy do I miss a heaping plate of pasta with a brownie for dessert!

I know that I am getting closer to the goal of 40 weeks because it's getting a little bit harder sleeping at night. Poor Jeff has to share the bed with me and about a zillion pillows! Nevermind the stray dog who tries to sneak into bed during the night for extra warmth! I can get comfortable until I get up for one of my many bathroom breaks or until I need to flip sides.

The most aggravating thing about my pregnancy is hand numbness. Anytime during the day or night, my hands start to feel like they are going numb..that is until I move them and find a new position. My doctor assures me that this can happen and not to be alarmed. Even though I am not swollen, there is enough edema that is 'pinching' my nerves and can cause numbness...although the legs is more common. This is the only thing that has caused some annoyance at work!

So, besides the occasional ache, pain or numbness, I am blessed with a healthy pregnancy. She should be a happy girl in there! I enjoy her kicks and movements. I feel as if this is my special time to spend with her! She'll be greeting the rest of the world before you know it!

December baby shower

This past Saturday, my best friend (Sarah) and my mother's best friend (Tobi) hosted our first (of two) baby shower in Medina. Everything was perfect-- the food was yummy and the snowflake and pink decorations looked wonderful amidst my parents Christmas decorations. We can't imagine the time and effort that it took to have such a wonderful shower. It was good to celebrate with our close family and friends..some of which we have not seen in awhile. We can't thank everyone enough!

(Tobi, Myself, and Sarah) (My Mom, Myself)

It's funny to be getting more and more baby things! Our little nursery is filling up with clothes, stuffed animals and diapers! I spent most of Sunday putting things away and sorting clothes and blankets that need to be washed....all in anticipation of our little one's arrival. Even the dogs are wondering what all the fuss in the nursery room is all about. They've learned to wait patiently at the door until being invited in-- something must be different about this room!

(Left: my mom, me, Sarah, and Sarah's mom)

(Right: some of the yummy food that both Sarah and Tobi prepared)