Dear Alex,

Over 29 weeks now… time is going by faster & faster, and you’ll be here before we know it! I read that you are the size of an acorn squash now, but since I have no idea what an acorn squash is I’ll just stick with my mental image of the eggplant from last week. I don’t have an “official” bump picture this week because we were kind of busy over the weekend:

Saturday was your baby shower! This is a picture of me & Grandma at the shower, which gives you an idea of what my bump is looking like lately. Grandma & Nana co-hosted the shower, and they did a FANTASTIC job. They are two of the best, most creative party planners I know, and together made a great team! All the food, decorations, games, etc. by far exceeded my expectations. There were about 25 people there, lots of friends & family   who are so excited that you’re on your way, and we all had a really great time. 🙂 You can find more pictures from the shower here (I only have a few at the moment but am hoping to get more from Nana & will post them asap):

Celebrating Alex– Baby Shower 11.10.12

And OH MY GOODNESS there were so many thoughtful gifts! Everyone’s generosity was truly touching– we got all sorts of great things that we’re going to need for you, everything from clothes, bottles, toys & diapers to bigger things like a high chair, playpen & car seat. I feel like we are so much more prepared for your arrival now! Over the next few weeks Dad & I plan to spend our time taking stock of what we have & what we still need, getting everything organized & putting the finishing touches on your nursery. We also have our infant care/childbirth classes & hospital tour coming up… so we will be especially busy this holiday season, but for very good reasons. 😀 We couldn’t be more excited!

Physically I am feeling pretty good, all things considered. Still having trouble sleeping & getting comfortable in general, but that’s nothing I can’t handle. One thing I’ve noticed more often lately too– particularly when I over-exert myself– is swelling in my face, hands & feet. But from what I’ve read that’s pretty common, so when it happens I just relax, put my feet up & drink lots of water & it goes away after awhile. Still, I plan to mention it at my check-up this week just in case. The closer I get to the end of the pregnancy, the more likely issues like preeclampsia will come up, so I want to be extra careful & keep a close eye on things. Thus far though, we have been so blessed with an overall healthy pregnancy!

That’s about it for this week– until next time little one… keep growing in there! We love you so much! 🙂

All my love,
Mom

P.S. — Dad happens to be sitting here as I write this tonight… he’s not a man of many words but says HELLO! 😉