Loved, Blessed and Grateful

I have fabulous sisters. Tempest, Traci and my sister by marriage, Kaylee, have been the means of making this next step into motherhood one of singular celebration for me. Creamy Baby Girl #4 is on her way very shortly and Tempest told me that it was time that I have a baby shower. I have to admit I love a party. I mean, who doesn't?

However, once the ball was rolling I got suddenly VERY self conscious and told her we shouldn't do it because this is my 4th daughter and I was afraid that people would consider that a faux pas. Tempest lovingly, but still in true "Tempestuous" form, assured me that I was being dumb and that it was still on.

I will love her forever for her persistence, enthusiasm and support of me in that way. Since she doesn't live in state, she called on our sister Traci and my sister in law, Kaylee, to make the shower happen. And I have to say that I am ever so glad she did. Temp did everything possible that she could on her end and then Traci and Kaylee took over from there.

This is how it all went down. Sam, husband extraordinaire, helped me get the house all prettied up. He was up late the night before trying to finish the crown moulding in the living room and when I woke up the next morning, he had not only cleaned up the serious sawdust and tool mess but he helped me hang some things up on the wall in the most attentive way and he took the girls daughters out on a date during the shower.

Traci and Kaylee arrived at my house and they decorated. Kaylee was in charge of the food and the decorations. They were just too cute. She prepared the YUMMIEST girl food. (I *heart* lil' smokies in a blanket, btw. You rock, Kaylee.)

Traci was THE MOST darling, generous and creative of hostesses. We played fabulous games and Traci gave out some killer gift baskets. I mean seriously, how often do you come away from a baby shower with a basket of spa goodies AND a gift certificate for a pedicure when you win at the baby food tasting game?

We had a fabulous time. I literally felt bathed in love just by the presence of so many of my friends. I was on a high for such a long time afterward. That kind of love is what makes my house even more of a home. Thank you so much for all of you who came, who wanted to come but couldn't and who have come by to tell me that I was dumb for limiting my guest list by some faux pas fear, to hug my neck, rub my belly and even drop a sweet baby gift off.

I consider my friends to be my angels here on earth and I was shown that I am surrounded by many. I also must say this....my angels have FABULOUS taste!! Paisley will be very organized, well dressed, burped, diapered, accessorized and kept warm because of all the gifts. Again..THANK YOU!

And now for the pictures. I was 2 days shy of being 36 wks along. I am sporting a great basketball belly, huh? About 5 days after that, I had an appt with my midwife and I was measuring....42 weeks. 42 wks at 36 wks along. I can't help but be proud of a stat like that. I grow a good belly, what can I say?


















*Gushy, Sentimental, Excited Heartbeat*

I can't believe that I almost missed out on such a fabulous experience. I very nearly denied myself of an outpouring of love, friendship and celebration. I learned that one should never ever limit or deny others the opportunity to come together and shower you with love. I can't say thank you enough. Ya'll are the best.