Ellie Jean

I've gone through every single name in the baby book, and I'm right back to the name we picked out when we first talked about having babies!

36 Weeks!

I can't believe I'm already at 36 weeks. It seems like just yesterday I found out I was pregnant.

I started my weekly prenatal appointments this week. They couldn't tell by feeling my belly if your head was down, so they had to do an ultrasound! Papa wasn't there to see it, because we thought this was just a routine appointment, but we had a sweet Mommy/Daughter moment, which was extra special too. You're in the perfect position, head down, and I got to see your little face. It wasn't a very clear image, but I could tell it was the prettiest face I've ever seen! Your little hands were tucked up near your face too.

I talked to you, and said, "What are you doing in there?? This is your Mama!!" You seemed to look around a bit, so I'm sure you recognize my voice!

Today I had Papa take pictures of me, just in case I go into labor early. I wanted to have some photos to remember this time. I've never felt so pretty and so complete! (And big! When are you going to make your grand entrance, Little Lady?!)

Woah Baby!

Look what you can do now! - 34 Weeks!

Love you!

33 Weeks! This weekend is our romantic weekend before your arrival - a little time to relax before you come home. We decided to have dinner at Von Trapp's, and on the way there, you fell asleep in the car.

I told you that you didn't have to sleep, that you could always come with us on our dates. I already can't imagine life without you. You're living proof of how much we love each other (a million times better than a pretty necklace or even a wedding ring).


We had so much fun. We talked about you most of the night, and how cute you are interacting with us through your little kicks and pushes.

The dinner special was, oddly, some of my favorite pregnancy foods, and they were made exactly how I like to eat them! Gouda cheese melted over French onion soup. Grilled beef tenderloin, asparagus, and garlic mashed potatoes (with cheddar cheese on top!). Apple strudel for dessert! So delicious.

I leaned back in my chair so content, and your dad and I watched the waves across my belly as you pedaled your little feet in there. Good food, great company, and baby kicks. Who could ask for more?

Then the piano player played this song, which you seem to like. And it has special meaning to me as a wife and mom. I'd do anything for you both.

Can't wait to hold you "for a million years."

Love,
Mom

32 Weeks!

32 Weeks, and you're oh so busy! I'm getting much bigger, and so are you! I feel you move a lot more often now, though not the big rolls like before. You're running out of room in there! Last night, we curled up on the couch to watch TV before bed, and you put on a show for us.

Your dad got to feel big swipes from your knee or elbow. You now make my whole belly shake when you kick - it's so sweet!

Here I am last weekend, and I have a video from Tuesday night of you wiggling in my belly. Love you!!

First Snow!

(from inside the womb!)

What's in a Name?

So I took a baby name quiz, and these are my results... I have to agree!

From movies, to books, to fashion icons, you sure have an appreciation for all things classic. So, chances are, when it comes to naming baby, you probably won’t spring for anything too unusual. You’d much rather stick to traditional names that have some real staying power than risk having your kid taunted on the basketball court. (Smart move.) Just don’t confuse traditional with boring (i.e. think about going beyond the Anns, Jennifers, and Jasons.) Our advice: There are definitely tons of classic baby names to choose from that are still unique enough to seem original (see below). And trust us, baby will be grateful later -- when there aren’t 10 other kids with the same name on the kindergarten roster.

I still like Ellie, Tessa, and Sarah... how will I decide?!

6.5 Months!

Six and a half months! How exciting!

Grammy and Grandpa came for the weekend to help clean up the apartment a bit. What a nice treat! I helped a little but mainly you and I got to relax, crochet, and cook in the kitchen!

I made chili, chicken & biscuits, and blueberry bread & muffins. It was fun, and oooh did we eat well!

Wednesday night you put on quite a show for us! You squirmed and made my belly jump. Grammy couldn't get  a good kick out of you for a little while, but Grandpa did! He put his big hand on my belly and said, "I love you. God bless you," and you gave him a nice big kick! We were so proud!

After I got comfortable on the couch, Grammy sat with her hand on my belly and got the biggest kick of all! We told you we love you and can't wait to hold you! Only a few more months now!

You saved some nice, big kicks for your dad last night. After one big kick, he just looked at me shocked. We were sure it was your little foot hitting the palm of his hand. So sweet!

Grandpa set up your crib this weekend. That definitely made everything seem so real. Your dad and I sat in your room for a long time trying to imagine you in that crib and talking about how wonderful it will be to hear you call for us when you get bigger.

Aunt Kim is coming to visit tonight with Alfie to help work on your room for a bit. Should be lots of fun! Sleep well, be happy, and know that Mama loves you with her whole heart!

Names

Our favorite names so far are: Sarah, Ellie, and Tessa. I wish you could help us choose!

Sarah Elizabeth is so pretty and traditional.
Ellie Jean makes me think 1950s movie star, which I love.
Tessa Jean feels classic and unique at the same time.

I think I'll have to hold you and see you to know for sure.

Ok, so...

I'm really behind on posting happy pregnancy moments, but I promise there are at least a few each day!

Some of them are:

The day Papa sang to you (Down by the Bay) and tapped his foot in time with the song. You began kicking in time with him. What a smart girl you are! You make me proud every day!

When your Papa comes in the room and you hear his voice, you seem to know and kick for him. I'm just as happy to see him!

Any moment I worry about you, you seem to sense it and give me a little kick - a sweet reminder that all is going okay in there.

I feel little pressures in there a lot, but this last weekend, an entire head (or butt) was pushing out the side of my belly. We both got to feel you and for a moment hold your little head or bottom in our hands. We were completely shocked (and in love) with you!

We say just about every day, "I just can't wait to hold her!"
I already feel you in my arms, and I can almost imagine your pretty, little face!