1 Month... ALREADY!

AG is 1 MONTH OLD!

We are so blessed to watch our little girl discover, grow and change.  She's doing great!   I'm feeding her every 2-3 hours during the day (from beginning of feeding to beginning of the next), but after her last feeding (usually between 10pm-12am), I'm letting her wake up naturally. We slept almost 6 hours last night, which she has done a couple of times, although usually it's 3-4 hours. 

Other info on AG this month: 

-AG never had a "floppy head" - she has held her head up to look around since birth; 

-eating 2-3oz out of a bottle once a day to get used to it for when Mommy goes back to work;

-wearing size 1 diapers (Pampers Swaddlers are our favorite so far); 

-wearing some NB and some 0-3 month clothes (trial and error); 

-deep sleeper (she takes daytimes naps in our living area with shades open so she doesn't depend on dark/quiet in order to sleep like her Mama, ha);

-likes her paci but not too dependent on it (the goal is to lose it by 6-12 months...we shall see); 

-very alert when she's awake - wants to look at whoever is holding her or whatever is around;

-Josh's input: she loves Pearl Jam :)

-LOVES getting a bath in her tub - never fusses;

-not concerned with Layla's barking (I stood over the barking dog purposely while I was pregnant);

-likes going on walks, though we haven't done that a lot since it's been so hot.

I'm sure I will think of more later. :-)

Our greatest blessing has arrived!

AG is here!

June 4, 2012

4:22 pm

8lbs 14oz

21 3/4 inches long

A & Mommy

Checking out the paparazzi from the nursery

After a very busy couple of weeks, we are finally falling into the groove of things.  Thank you all for your prayers, visits, lunches/dinner, flowers, gifts, phone calls, texts, etc. We have had a couple of doctors visits (just check-ups), had a newborn photography session (we adore all of the pics), lots of visitors and a complete lack of sleep, HA!  I can't believe I only have 3 weeks and a few days left until I go back to work!  I am just thinking, "Only a few more months until the rest of my leave!"

We are loving being parents!  Don't get me wrong, the first couple of weeks are a huge adjustment (just things you don't think about and can't really prepare for) but seeing her sweet little face makes it all better.  Josh stayed home with me for a week before he started his new job then Mom took off last week to help me out.  This week, I've mostly been by myself, but I have sought help so I can occasionally take a nap, run errands or just take a walk and get some fresh air.  Being cooped up can be difficult, but having people around us that are helpful and supportive have made such a huge difference - thank you!  I will say this..someone told me this and it's the truth:  Being a mother is the hardest and BEST job in the world.  And I'm loving it!

Here are my two favorite pictures from AG's newborn session that she's shared - I'll post more once I get the disk:

Our sweet, sweet baby girl

I'm pretty sure this is my all-time favorite photo. Stunning.

June Baby!

Well, after a month of speculation on the big question: "Will AG be a May Flower or a June Bug?"...we have our answer!
Along with being a June baby, she will definitely be a Gemini (and zodiac twins with her uncle Hunter).  She also has 3 birthstones: pearl, moonstone and Alexandrite.

We can't wait to meet her!

39 weeks, 3 days!

Due in 5 Days - The Waiting Game Continues...

Nothing new on the pregnancy front - we are still cooking away!  Everything looks good. My BP was normal and I'm measuring right on time.  She will be evicted by 41 weeks (June 12th) so hopefully she'll decide to come on her own between now and then.

Josh and I celebrated our anniversary yesterday.  We have had such a wonderful 3 years of marriage!  We reflected a lot on what all we've had the opportunity to do in the last few years - we really are blessed beyond words.  And now we are starting a family!  Everything is just wonderful.

We spent the majority of Memorial Day weekend at DeDe's pool.  My friend, Shanna, brought her daughter, Reece, over on Saturday. Reece is 3 1/2 and we had so much fun playing with her! (Plus I got some much-needed girl time with Shanna)  Reece's new buddy is Josh (of course) and I was constantly reminded of what a great Daddy he's going to be.  I can't wait to see him with AG. 

We went that night to High Point (my favorite!) for dinner.  We decided since I was feeling really good that we should take advantage since it's been so wishy-washy lately as far as how I'm feeling.  The heat last week almost killed me and the long weekend really helped for catching up on rest.  Dinner was delicious, as always, and I'm so glad we got to go.

Now, we are just waiting patiently on AG.  Really, as much as I'd like her to be here, I really am enjoying the final days of pregnancy and quality time with J.  Life is good-nope, it's great!

-J, K & Baby A

12 Days Until June 5th - Who's counting? This girl!

Less than 2 weeks until AG's expected arrival date!

I am honestly starting to rollercoaster downhill.  I'm not much of a complainer (or at least I try to keep it to a minimum), but after an increase of X pounds to carry around, heat indexes of 100 degrees, still working out in the heat and driving all.day.long...this girl is worn out. 

Not much to tell from today's doctor's appointment.  Before she started the physical exam, she had already mentioned the possibility of being induced next week as an option.  My BP was actually a lot better than it had been and my swelling wasn't too horrible today for the 1st day all week.  After the progress check, though, we discovered my cervix hasn't changed at all.  I am still 1 cm and 50% effaced.  Since it isn't "medically necessary" to induce this early, plus she said induction is much harder without being further along in the progression, I'm going to hold off on scheduling anything. Hopefully, Avery decides to arrive on her own sooner rather than later, because I honestly don't want to make this decision. Dr. J did say that she wants to get a "game plan" together for L&D at my appointment next week, so that might be what we are faced with next week. This practice doesn't let you get to 42 weeks, so either way, I may have to be induced, but I REALLY want things to happen naturally.  But, I also don't want a 12 pounder or get to a point that I require a C-Section :) 

I'm taking tomorrow off since I am beyond exhausted, it's a holiday and our 3 year anniversary is next week!!!  I am excited and feel blessed Josh and I have gotten to spend some real quality time together over the past few months.  Sometimes when times seem tough, you don't see the silver lining, but we've definitely enjoyed it and made the most of it being just the two of us.  And although we are both anxiously awaiting the arrival of our daughter, we are committed to getting a lot of rest, continuing to get ready for her to be here and just enjoying each other's company.

If you need us this weekend, you can find us near the closest air conditioner...or swimming in DeDe's pool :)  Have a great Memorial Day!

-J, K & Baby A

P.S.  Avery wants to wish her Uncle Hunter a very HAPPY 26th Birthday!  Have fun in FL!

Me and Baby Brother (wayyyy pre-pregnancy, obviously)

... And AG is full term! The waiting begins!

Here we are at 37 weeks, 3 days!
Memphis was awesome!  We got there Friday night in time for dinner with Mom & Terry, and of course, the graduate himself.  Hunter's graduation on Saturday wasn't until later in the day, so we slept in and then all ate lunch at The BBQ Shop (BBQ spaghetti=AMAZING).  His graduation was a proud moment for the family and a fabulous Mother's Day gift for Mom - what an accomplishment!

(Cell phone pic - better quality pic to come)

My 1st Mother's Day was Sunday, according to my sweet husband.  His comment: "You have carried Avery for the last 9 months.  It is absolutely your 1st Mother's Day."

He's amazing.  This was completely unexpected. Yes, I cried.

We had another good report at the doctor yesterday...the progress continues!  I am dilated 1 cm and 50% effaced.  Of course, when the inevitable "How much longer?!" came out of J's mouth, there is no clear-cut way of knowing.  Sure, there are other pre-labor signs, some of which I have also experienced, but only time will really tell.  I watched one of the baby reality shows this week and a girl went into labor a day after finding out she was also dilated 1 cm and was 70% effaced (a little further than me, but not too much).  On the other hand, I have friends that walked around dilated to a 3 and had effaced some for weeks and still were induced on or after their due date. I'm just comfortable knowing God has her plan and I'm just staying comfortable, getting plenty of rest and rely on the fact she'll come when it's time.

I have wall decor coming for the nursery:

Clearly, it will have "avery" rather than "sarah," and I have given her my nursery colors.  I looked at it and thought "Hey, I could do that myself!"  but then reality kicked me and said "Yes, in all of your spare time." HA!

Not too much longer!  17 days. My doc said she'd be surprised if I went past my due date, but if I do, it'll be close.  I asked if she'd induce past the June 5th and she said things would have to be perfect in order for that to happen (and even so, it would be a week at most).  My BP has continued to creep up but it's only been high for me, not according to guidelines.  There are no other signs of preeclampsia or any other gestational issue (no true hypertension).  Just something they've been keeping an eye on for 3 weeks or so.

I hope everyone has a great week!  I can't help but wonder...will this one be her birthday?  :)

-J, K & A

Another Fun Weekend Ahead!

Josh and I are leaving this afternoon to celebrate Hunter's graduation from law school in Memphis!  We are so proud of all of his hard work and are keeping our fingers crossed that everything pans out in the next several months - preparing and taking the bar and of course, to find that great job!  He deserves it.

I went to my 36 week appointment yesterday - more progress!  I've almost dilated a cm and she is still head down!  She's also began to drop, which I can tell through how my belly looks (even Josh and my Mom mentioned it) but also because I'm feeling lighter up top, but more pressure below in my lower back and pelvis.  Don't worry- I did get permission from my OB to travel to Memphis this weekend, especially after I told her we were only staying a night.  Still, we have hospital bags packed and her car seat in place, just in case.

Speaking of "nesting," we are in full force.  I have washed all of her newborn to 3-month clothes, her socks, swaddle me's, gowns, towels, wash cloths and receiving blankets and put them away.  We have her nursery ready to go with everything orgranized that we will need when she first arrives: diapers, wipes, accessories (which this child definitely has), shoes, nursing gear, etc.  Plus, like I said, we are packed and ready to go for the hospital. 

I had 2 reality checks yesterday: the first after I saw that my sorority sister had her baby on Tuesday night...and she was due only 2 days before me; the second when my doctor said, "We won't stop labor is she decides it's time." YAYYYYY!

I know I've said this 100 times, but we cannot wait to meet her!  I will definitely miss being pregnant (no, seriously, I will) but we can't wait to have her here.

Have a great weekend - J, K & Baby A

Welcome, Month #9!!

36 weeks tomorrow - WOW.

Everything has still been going well!  My 35 week appointment was last Wednesday and although I haven't dilated at all, she said my cervix definitely thinning and softening (effacing) and that she thinks I'm about 30%!  I'm happy with any kind of progress - hopefully we'll keep it up!  The only SLIGHT concern from both my physician at the 34 week appointment and the other MD I saw this past week (I've seen all the doctors in the practice during my pregnancy) was an elevated blood pressure, and it was only considered high for me compared to other appointments.  I haven't been having headaches, eyesight issues, severe swelling, protein in my urine or reflex issues, so they aren't overly concerned about preeclampsia.  Hopefully, though, it will be lower on Thursday at my appointment.

We have continued to prepare for AG's arrival over the last several weeks.  Her curtains, pillow and dust ruffle are still with the seamstress and I don't have a lot of wall decor, but we love her nursery thus far.  I have been washing her teeny tiny wardrobe (cutest.things.ever) and Josh put all of her big stuff together.  He also converted the guest bedroom into our new office and it looks awesome.

I'm now just tying up loose ends at work (and finishing up her to-do list as well).  I meet with my manager on Thursday to go over plans while I'm on leave.  I'm really trying to get all of our ducks in the row in the next week, as that's 37 weeks aka FULL TERM (they wouldn't stop labor).  We are also packing for the hospital!  I cannot believe how close we are to being parents!

On another note, we've decided to keep the hospital trip (as in Avery Grace's big arrival) to only immediate family (us, our parents, siblings and grandparents).  We decided to keep things as intimate as possible, giving our close family a few days of solo bonding with Avery.  Plus, we have so many family, friends and family friends, it would just be too wild for a couple of days at the hospital.  So, we're asking for everyone to come visit us once we're home and we can enjoy visiting a little more (unless you or your kids/fam are sick, ha!).

I'll update everyone on the doctor's visit later this week :-)

Here are a couple of pics from the last week:

Another pic from our session with Cortney Smith Photography

Josh and Layla relaxing at DeDe's pool

The pool is the perfect place for the preggo and the lab :)

HAVE A GREAT WEEK!

-J, K & A

Sneak Peek from Maternity Pics

Here is our very first maternity pic - 

love it and cannot wait to see the rest!!!

Our Cup Runneth Over...

Josh and I have the BEST family and friends.  We have had 3 baby showers for Avery Grace over the last two weekends and they all were wonderful.  The generosity of our loved ones has been so greatly appreciated and we have knocked out a ton of "must-haves" for her and the rest should be covered by gift cards (have I mentioned just how much I love gift cards?!).  We are beyond blessed to have SO many people anxiously awaiting her arrival. 

I have spent today after church organizing clothes, blankets, toys, pacifiers, bathing supplies, bibs, books, etc. while Josh put together the stroller, car seat, swing, pack-n-play and bouncer.  We absolutely put a dent in the work, but there is still plenty to be done!

Another big event taking place this Thursday: The last of my 2-week doctor's appointments!  Which means, YES, next Wednesday begins my weekly visits!  It is unbelievable how fast the time has flown.  We are beyond ready to have her here!  I told Josh this morning: "At the earliest, she'll be here in 3 weeks and at the most, only 6." (<---Yes, positive thinking goes a long way, ha!)  It's just mind-boggling to believe we will be parents in no time!

Other than that, I'm trying to wrap up all work's loose ends before taking a few weeks off for maternity leave.  At my company, we get the usual paid 6-8 weeks (depending on C-section) then FMLA (up to 16 weeks in Tennessee) if we new moms so-choose.  I've pretty well decided (90% sure) that I'm breaking that time up, since you have up until 12 months after birth to take the family leave.  So, I'll take the initial 6-8 weeks, then go back on leave either late 2012 or early 2013.  Until then, I'm planning on working up until her big debut, unless my doctor disagrees with that plan.  I think it will be fine, minus driving 2+ hours from Murfreesboro after the beginning of May and that I don't have any issues in the upcoming weeks. So far so good!

I'll be posting pics of both the nursery (and showers) once I get them all ready.  The nursery is painted, thanks to Josh's wonderful grandfather, and we got the fabric we were hoping for, which is now with the seamstress for curtains, a pillow and a dust ruffle.  Once it's all put together and furniture is in it's final resting place, I'll post the pictures.

HAVE A BLESSED WEEK!
xoxo.
J, K & Baby A

Project Nursery/Office/Guest Room Switch-a-roo

After several minor set-backs over the last couple, we are finally tackling the room and nursery project.  All I can say is luckily we aren't really utilizing our formal dining area AND we can close it off because right now it is storing baby furniture and gifts, all of my marketing materials for work and other odds&ends that are being transferred from room-to-room.  Again, we are converting the office into AG's nursery and turning the guest bedroom into the office.  We really thought long-term planning through when we moved in, clearly...ha! 

Many of you have asked about nursery colors and I know we have been pretty vague.  There were several ideas that I liked but overall, we have been pretty set on neutral colors and having a classic and simple theme.  I didn't want to do animals and anything too crazy, color-wise. 

Mom and I went fabric shopping in Chattanooga yesterday while Josh got the nursery cleaned up.  This was the fabric that had the biggest impression on me and they are checking to see if they can get enough to do two sets of curtains and a pillow for the chair.  Josh went to Lowe's this morning to compare paint samples since our wall color now has too much of a yellow undertone in the beige.

Our current wall color is on the left, Josh's match is on the right.

Also, here is the Dutailier Reclining Glider and Ottoman I found at a catalog return outlet - it was exactly what I wanted and we found a fabulous deal!

I am spending today painting a bookshelf and end table that will match the dresser/changing table.  That will make all the nursery furniture antique white and the crib (and wood on the glider/ottoman) espresso. As far as decor, here are just a couple of ideas for inspiration (see Pinterest for the whole nine yards):

Monogram and Antique window (something I've had and onto for years!)

Simple, elegant decor on the wall

Ordered this in her colors!

And I'd like to dedicate it to Hunter, for his childhood love for The Wizard of Oz

I am also planning to buy a small chandelier to take the place of the current light fixture in the room.

I am very excited that all the plans are falling into place.  We are on track to accomplish theme of the clean, classic simplicity of a sweet nursery we were going for from Day 1, though I am as shocked as you are that the one "color" we have to offset the neutral color scheme is light pink.  It will be gorgeous, though!  ...if they can get the fabric :)

Have a blessed weekend!  And Happy Easter
...He is risen, indeed!



Week of Craziness=1, J&K=0

What a wild week!  I had an insane week at work, including a 14 hour day in Alabama working programs.   I was ready for the weekend, to say the least, but Hey, duty calls!  To top it all off, I got a call from Josh on Friday that his back was hurting.  Less than 2 hours later, we were in the ER - kidney stones.  Yuck.  Neither of us had had them before, but apparently it is genetic and several members of his family have dealt with them.  Anyway, our big weekend of working on the nursery turned into more of nursing poor Josh, but I'm learning to expect the unexpected.  I'm praying hard he'll be feeling better soon.  I keep reminding him labor won't last this long, HA!  I've gotta keep him on his toes...

On the other hand, I'm still doing good.  My feet are starting to hurt, but I still haven't had a lot of swelling or pain elsewhere, so I'll take a couple of nights of foot rubs :)  I've watched the sweet cravings and have started letting myself do one dessert a day (rather than multiple and more multiple), although I sort of busted that this weekend, mostly out of boredom. I guess watching the Women's Sweet 16 and Men's Elite 8 will only entertain the preggo for so long. 

Pic from Friday - 29.5 weeks:

Avery Grace had a couple of new buddies born this week!  She has a new cousin, Matthew Reece, who was born Friday (Josh's cousin, Ashley's, baby).  Reece is the 13th and AG will be the 14th great-grandchild on that side of the family (Linz, correct me if my Smith math is wrong). 

She also has a new neighbor and family friend, Aubree Kate, who was born Wednesday (my old friend, Jeff, and his wife, Rachel's baby girl).

Well, though the week was a little tough, I'm confident this one will be much more easy-going. 

Hope you all enjoy another week of Spring weather!

J, K & Baby A

First Week of 3rd Trimester - COMPLETE.

We just returned from our babymoon to Sandestin - it was a FABULOUS getaway.  We got up around 1:30am on Thursday and made our way down to Florida.  Sun, Food, Beyond Amazing Weather and of course, The Beach.  I couldn't believe how lucky we got with the condo, the view, the location and the 75-80 degree weather.  We cannot complain about a thing - it was all great...perfect, even!

Josh is an amazing photographer! 

- Picture from last night's dinner-

Dinner at the Harbor. 

A super-sweet (and tipsy) lady wanted to snap a pic of the parents-to-be :)

Next weekend, we are planning on working hard on the nursery, something that has yet to happen.  We have to finish cleaning out the guest room, move all of the office furniture into the now-guest room, then begin placing furniture in the nursery (the now-office).  Confusing, enough?  Yes, it has been an adventure for us as well.  

Have a great week!

J, K and Baby A

Childbirth Class=Reality Check!

It's been a long week at the Smith house!  I've been in Anaheim, CA all week for a National Sales Meeting, which is always exhausting, much less being almost 7 months pregnant.  But at least it's over.

We went to our first childbirth class at the hospital today - it was awesome!  We learned so much about what to expect in the third trimester, prelabor, labor and delivery today.  Yes, we even watched a 10-minute video following a woman's labor and delivery (Josh only hid his face once, HA!).  The whole class was informative for both me and my "support person/coach."  It was absolutely a reality check, too.  I mean, she be full term in 10 weeks. WOW.  We also learned the in's and out's of the hospital's game plan for when the big day comes.  Next Saturday, we'll finish up our class and take a tour of the hospital's labor and delivery area. We are so excited!!!

On another exciting note, we booked our babymoon!  We'll be staying in Sandestin for a long weekend and the vacay couldn't come soon enough.  I need a break!  Sun, Sand & Seafood ALWAYS do the trick :)

Hope everyone has a great week!
J, K & Baby A

Month 6: 15 weeks to go...

Here is my 25 week (and 3 day) pic:

Everything is still going well!  I passed my glucose test on the first try, so I wasn't subjected to the 3 hour test (thank goodness!).  I go back the second week of March for my 28 week visit then I begin my visits every two weeks!  I'm just shocked I'm already that far along.

Josh and I spent Monday night in Florence, AL (part of my territory) then stopped at Sir's Fabrics in Fayetteville on our way home to look for nursery inspiration - there was none to be had.  We (along with our interior designer, Mom) have talked about going toward Nashville to look soon.  Hopefully, we'll have better luck.  Until then, I'm painting the bookshelf for the nursery (I found a color at Lowe's that matches the dresser/changer perfectly) and we're going to be converting the office to the nursery and the guest room to an office.  I think this weekend will be packed with DIY projects!

On another note, we're planning on heading to Grayton Beach in the next few weeks for our Babymoon!  I'm excited and am definitely ready for a vacay!!! Especially to the beach!

Have a fabulous weekend!
K, J & Baby A :)

Project Nursery Begins!

Thanks to Lindsey H., I learned of a one-day sale at USA Baby in Franklin. Everything is the store was on sale, including floor samples of top-rated brands such as Munire and Baby's Dream.  Mom and I made the trip early Saturday morning and had a blast!  And we had great luck finding both the crib and dresser (changing table).

Munire SafeSide Urban style in Espresso (top right) - may be "island style" in her nursery

Our Baby's Dream dresser (changing table) in antique white

We will also be painting our bookshelf antique white and are looking for a recliner/glider.  We are all about keeping it simple, though we are planning on adding a chandelier for a touch of elegance :) We also haven't picked the fabric out quite yet but I'm sure a roadtrip will be in the near future for that purchase.  I'm glad my Mom has awesome taste and a love for decorating - she's been a huge help! Thank you!!!

After we were finished shopping, I met Lindsey H, Lindsey W and Natalee (and Audrey) for lunch at Marina's - it was great having girl time and catch-up time.  When we finished up lunch, Lindsey H took us to Sam's for diaper shopping in bulk - GREAT deal!  I plan on making a couple of more trips, too, before she arrives. I also bought her a couple of adorable outfits (I just couldn't resist).

All-in-all, it was a productive weekend for the baby!  Thanks again to my Mom and Friends :)

Week 23: Observations from the Pregnant Lady...

I've made some general observations over the last week that I've taken note of - please take them with a grain of salt:

*The craving of sweets is terrible! There is zero self-control, so I just have to stay away from it. MAJOR cuts in the sugar department have begun..

*No woman, pregnant or not, wants to hear comments such as: "Wow! Your belly is really getting out there!" or "Look at the little pudge!" or "Just be glad you aren't gaining weight everywhere!" Sheesh. I get it. It's part of it and it's good for the baby and I could not be more thankful I am healthy, she is healthy, etc. etc .etc. Maybe I'm just being sensitive, but seriously...no female wants to talk about it.

*Working out isn't really that different pregnant, unless you are planning to jog along with your walk.  At this point, your bladder might beg for mercy.  (The elliptical, on the other hand, is fabulous!)

*Although I'm due in a little less than four months, I could realistically have her in THREE. Oh. Em. Gee.

*Thinking about the nursery is seriously overwhelming.

This week has been super busy at the Smith household.  My Mom and Terry got married in Charleston last Wednesday - we are so happy for them!  While they were gone, Josh laid tile at his house before it's time to put it on the market.  It looks awesome!  I'm so happy to have a handyman husband.  I also had a long week at work.  It was jam-packed with lunches, appointments and an overnight in Florence, AL.  It all is paying off, though, and I'm really enjoying my new position. :)

Enjoy your week!
The Smith Fam

Karate or Gymnastics?

Josh got to feel her move!  The first time was Friday night, the most active by far she'd ever been.  We've also been enjoying her gold medalist performances the last two nights as well. :)

I'll be 22 weeks tomorrow!  Here are some other pregnancy updates:

-Still no DEFINITE name, although we have a pretty good idea of what it will be.
-No sickness for me since January 1st!
-I'm still sleeping well, no preggo insomnia yet, knock on wood! And I'm slightly obsessed with the Snoogle pregnancy pillow!  AMAZING.
-Cravings: 1st trimester - watermelon slushes and when I DID feel like eating something, it was for a couple of days at every meal (i.e. Raisin Bran, Mac-n-cheese, saltines, etc.)
2nd trimester - so far, SWEETS! Julia's bakery chocolate fudge pie; local coffee shops' (not Starbucks!) specialty decaf drinks (especially from Buckhead coffee shop in Columbia); Double Chocolate Cookie Dough Blizzards; made from scratch chocolate chip cookies and milk; TEA (either sweet or fruit) And not a "sweet" or "dessert," Red Curry from Royal Thai in Franklin and Brentwood.  LATEST: Peanut Butter and Strawberry Jelly Sandwiches.

Have a great rest of the week!  Two updates in one week? We're on a roll!
The Smith Fam

Registry Time!

Josh and I have had a blast the last two weekends getting the baby's registry together!  We went to scope out our options at Super Target in Smyrna and Babies 'R Us in Murfreesboro last Sunday. I have devoted a few hours this week compiling a list of our registry items based on online ratings, magazine ratings, suggestions from new moms and a great book Megan let me borrow, "Baby Bargains" from 2011.  The last 7 days have been very eye-opening on what we thought we want/need versus what is safe and functional.

I had an appointment for a haircut this morning in Nashville and Josh joined me for a the trip.  We walked around Bass Pro for awhile, enjoyed a yummy lunch at Toot's in Smyrna, then went back to Super Target to begin the registration process.  2 or so hours later, we emerged from the store.  We got so much accomplished! It is definitely making everything feel more real. One of our personal "top" registry items, the BOB jogging stroller, is even on sale ($100 off!) online.  Too bad it's not quite baby shower time!

I also have began my online registry at Babies 'R Us - we have duplication on both registries since some people prefer one store over another and we can adjust the registry quickly due to online access.  Some of our biggest items on the registries are "online only," due to our findings in our product research and what each store offers.  I have also included notes at both sites that gift cards are welcome and not to forget gift receipts (especially from Target...the biggest pain to return/exchange).  Technology sure has changed things!

Next job: PROJECT NURSERY!

Have a great week,
The Smith Fam

Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice...

...that's what little GIRLS are made of!  Josh and I are thrilled to announce we are expecting a sweet little girl!  We went to my ultrasound and 20 week appointment on Friday.  The tech told us in the beginning of the ultrasound that she wouldn't tell us boy or girl until the end (of the 30 minute ultrasound) and that she would only tell us if she was 99% sure of the gender (she would never say 100% and if she was only 85% sure, she would ask us if we wanted to know) - she was 99% sure!  Baby Girl was lying with her backside to us in the first half of the ultrasound, so the tech didn't know the sex herself until the last 5 minutes.  And boy, was Baby S active!  Rolling and flipping around, covering her face, crossing her legs... it was quite entertaining for us.  The funny thing is, we had truly thought throughout the entire pregnancy that she was a "she."  He or She, we would have been over the moon, but now we are getting prepared and anxiously awaiting her arrival.

Dr. Jones said that everything about the ultrasound looked perfect!  Her heartbeat was 157 bpm and most of the ultrasound's measurements had her about 2 days early (which pretty much means nothing).  She said that the only thing they didn't get a clear picture was was her profile but since everything else looked good, this was probably my final ultrasound.  Next time I go in, it's my glucose test...I've heard it's really fun and awesome (HA!).  I want everything to continue to go well for me and Baby Girl, so I will be fine :)

We kept mum about the gender for 24 hours, which was a very special time for both of us.  The majority of family and friends thought she was a Boy, so it was fun revealing the big news.  We are dang good secret keepers, too!

We cannot wait for this awesome journey as a family!  Simply blessed.
Only 4 and a half months to go!
Much love,
The Smith Fam

Week 19

It's been a great week!  After a wonderful church service this morning, we went to Murfreesboro to Hobby Lobby (it was closed) and to take care of my Fudge Pie craving from Julia's Bakery (the best I've ever had).  As we were leaving the bakery, we were across from MTMC where my OB is located and Josh said, "Only 5 more days!"  We absolutely could not be more excited to find out if our sweet blessing is a boy or a girl.  Everyone has asked what we want and we could not honestly not care less.  It surprises me that people expect a preference.  I found a cute saying on Pinterest this week that I shared with Josh: 
 DAD: A son's first hero and a daughter's first love.  :)

I enjoyed a Girl's Night Out on Thursday with some friends from FC.  Every month, the flower and gift shop in Winchester called SOULflowers hosts a craft night called Art & Soul.   I've been the last 2 months and it's been a ton of fun. 

December Wreath-Making Project (it's still in our foyer)

I found the Dove applique idea on Pinterest.  I did the best I could drawing it (without a stencil!) and cutting it.  The saying is something my Daddy always said.  Very special piece :)

Since I've had people asking about baby showers, I've been researching what to add to a baby registry.  Lindsey H. has been awesome - she sent me an email that I'm sure took her 2 hours at least to compile of registry ideas.  I am absolutely open to all suggestions, especially the "must-haves."  I can't believe it's already time to begin planning baby showers, but I am just two days shy of the 1/2 way point!  Plus with Spring being such a busy time, my friends are wanting to nail down a date, so here's to planning! Cheers to you dear gals!

I've had some requests for belly pics.  I'll give you one from 6 weeks and one from 19 weeks, 5 days.  My, how times have changed!  And I wouldn't have it any other way.  LOVE.

6 weeks

19 weeks 5 days (5 months)...almost half way there!

Thank you all for checking in on us and sending us well-wishes.  The love and prayers you all are sending to our sweet baby is beyond amazing and he/she won't be here for 4 1/2 months! 

Much Love and Thanks,

The Smith Fam

18 Weeks - Baby Happenings

I am 18 1/2 weeks pregnant and it's been a big one...I felt Baby Smith move this week!  I actually think I've been feeling the movement for a week or so, but wasn't 100% sure.  What an amazing feeling.  God is so good!  Only 2 weeks until we make our big announcement...will it be PINK or will it be BLUE?  :)

I have been doing some nursery planning via Pinterest a lot in the last week.  If you don't know what Pinterest is, you are missing out!  It's wonderful website for planning for home decorating ideas, fashion/beauty ideas, do it yourself (DIY) projects/crafts, yummy recipes, workout/healthy food planning - you name it.  My teacher friends adore it, as well as others planning for babies and weddings.  Really, though, it is awesome for everyone.  HIGHLY recommend.

The overall simplicity of the nurseries I've been drawn to in pictures have been the same for a boy or a girl:  neutral colors, not a lot of "stuff" going on within the space, but obviously the accessorizing will be different.  For a boy, I've picked up on some cool, rustic details and for a girl, more feminine and classy decor'. We can't wait to really start planning once we find out the gender.

Besides that, I have already been getting phone calls regarding baby showers, which is so exciting and making it more "real."  It's so hard to believe we will be parents in less than 5 months! 


Cheers,
The Smith Fam
xoxo

Katie's First Hunt and A Smoky Mountain Welcome to 2012

What a wonderful Winter Break!  We have enjoyed some much-needed relaxation and now it's almost time to get back to the real world.  Last Friday, I ventured to Alto with Josh for his final deer hunt of the year and my first-ever experience.  We climbed up the treestand at about 2:45 in the afternoon and he got one around 4:40! (Sidenote: No matter what he tells you, I did not shoot that deer!)  To be honest, I actually enjoyed myself (to my complete shock) and was really excited that I was the one who spotted the deer!  I think the best part was how happy it made Josh - not only did I actually finally go with him, but he told me several times it was his favorite deer he'd ever killed since I was there. 



"Who says you can't kill deer with perfume and diamond earrings on?" -Josh speaking about Katie (Note: I took off the earrings)

The next day, Josh, Layla and I set out on our roadtrip to The Smoky Mountains.  I had found a cabin in Pigeon Forge for us to stay in for two nights, including New Year's Eve.  We had a great time relaxing, shopping at the Tanger Outlets in Sevierville, browsing around Gatlinburg and just enjoying the ambiance of the mountains.  And what a PERFECT spot we had (both the location and the cabin itself)!  It was the ideal size for two people (plus our fur child), it had fabulous views, a secluded hot tub (though the preggo couldn't enjoy, but it was still cool), it was well-maintained, had a full kitchen and comfy furniture for it's renters to relax.  And boy, did we relax!  We arrived around 5:00 pm on NYE and I think we were in PJ's by 5:03.  I couldn't have possibly envisioned a better way to bring in the New Year, especially with Baby S joining us in about 5 months!

The Alpine Rose

Our Sunset Arrival

Enjoying a beautiful January 1, 2012

Layla reclining before an afternoon nap

Couldn't have asked for a better location...

...even from the couch, the view was amazing!

We cannot wait for the great blessings that 2012 will bring us! We can't wait for our most precious gift to arrive this spring!  Josh and I hope that many, many blessings come your way this year as well. 

May 2012 be your best year yet, but not the best ever. 

Much love,

The Smith Fam