FEELS LIKE HOME TO ME: April 2012

Once again I come to the blog in disbelief of how quickly time flies. And I don't like it when it has to do with my baby. But, you see, she's not a baby anymore. She is four-years-old. That should be illegal to type.

However shocked I am about it, she is thrilled. So let me tell you about her pink pirate birthday bash. She chose the theme. She has fallen in love with Disney Junior's Jake and the Neverland Pirates and mentioned wanting a pirate party. I must admit, in response to her request I said, "You mean a pink pirate party?" And she said, "YES!"

Since I knew I'd be in my eighth month of pregnancy, I decided to take the party as far away from my house as I could - best decision I've made in a while. We booked My Party Place in downtown Columbus. I have to tell you, it was a booming success. Local moms, do this for your next party. They handled all the details (games, crafts, cake, ice cream...everything!) and it was worth EVERY dime I paid.

Libby's friends and family turned out Saturday morning for the party.

Libby with one of my sweet students, Madison. I want Madison to move in with me and raise my children. She would rather leave us this summer and go to The University of Alabama. I don't know why? ;)

Libby and Mimi just before all the kids arrived.

Then it was time to have some fun. We kicked off the party by painting frames. Every kid got to paint and decorate their own.

Then they began a treasure hunt. The map led the kids to this neat swing. Every child got to ride to the top and get a lollipop. Fun!

Then there were more clues from the map. These clues led to a game of musical chairs, limbo, walking the plank and even fishing in a treasure chest.

The party planners also made time for face painting, tattoos and "pin the patch on the pirate".

Then it was time for a tea party and birthday cake.

Happy Birthday, Libby!

The kids polished off cake, ice cream and pink lemonade. And it was good!

Then there was a balloon drop.

It was cool and the kids loved it. They actually ran around and screamed for about five minutes. Who wouldn't love that? It was a great end to a great party.

It was such a fun morning. I had a great time being able to watch the entire party and take pictures. Libby gave her party rave reviews and Drew was glad that we were both so happy.

It was a wonderful party and one I'll remember for years to come. I am still processing this new stage she's in. Not a toddler, but not quite grown. To look at her she seems taller, more mature. But when I least expect it, she says or does something that is so innocent and gives me a glimpse of my baby girl. It's certainly bitter sweet. And for that, I don't pass up an opportunity to let her crawl in my lap (what little there is right now) or snuggle at bedtime. For I know my first born won't be like this much longer.

Thank you, Libby, for all that you bring to our family. You are a gift from God. You bring joy to all of us and I am thankful for you everyday of my life. Happy Birthday and let's stop all this growing up. I don't know how much more a mom can take.

2:14 PM
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Eighth Month

I've entered my eighth month of pregnancy. 32 weeks and there is no doubt I'm feeling very pregnant. But I'm not on this adventure alone. My friend, Jill (who is due any ~~day~~ second now) is also expecting her second child. It's been fun to swap war stories and prepare as we go through this stage of our lives together. We've been walking at the park on Wednesday nights while our children are a church. You should see the looks we get. People step aside to let us through. Maybe they're afraid pregnancy is contagious?

Baby is the size of: About four-and-a-half pounds.

Symptoms: How much time do you have? ;) Heartburn, numerous trips to the restroom every day and very hard to get much sleep. All typical at this stage of pregnancy, but still no fun.

Maternity clothes: My closet is full of them. I've even had to retire a few tops that worked in my second trimester, but not anymore. I am this close to being over all maternity clothes. I got to the same point with my last pregnancy.

Sleep: Not getting very much of it. Along with the usual culprits of heartburn and being uncomfortable, I've started having leg cramps in the middle of the night. I miss sleep - I'm a very tired woman!

Fun moment(s) this past week/month: My very kind co-workers threw me a baby shower at work. I got a stock pile of diapers, wipes and bath products. My girlfriends also hosted a lovely friends/family shower this weekend. I got such pretty things for the baby and her room. I am so pleased! We've also made lots of progress in the nursery. The furniture is set up, bed is made, I've washed and folded tons of onesies. Now we just need our little bebe to complete the room.

Movement: She moves all throughout the day and night.

Food cravings/aversions: Other than wanting a glass of milk at night, I can't say I'm having specific cravings. If you know me, you know I like food, so I can't blame being pregnant on that!

Gender & Name: a nameless girl

Weight gained: 23 lbs

What I am looking forward to: Now that I can see the light at the end of the tunnel, I'm looking forward to my baby girl's arrival and being home this summer. I'll admit, I'm in denial about how hectic the first six to eight weeks will be. Especially with another child in the house. But I'm up for the challenge! I'm ready to meet my daughter with hugs and kisses.