Dear Little One, yet to be officially named,

We continue to work on your name! We have many ideas and it’s just out of excitement and the unknown of knowing your soon to be born personality! But, I promise you it’ll be a name that comes with a lot of love and fun anticipation. We certainly get a lot of suggestions and questions- but we are trying to stay “mum” with the top five until it’s time and we share it with you.

Your room continues to grow and get filled with new things! I am pretty sure you will have the best selection of outfits in the State of Oregon. If there is one thing you won’t be in your first year little one, is badly dressed.

During the turnover from week 34-35, we were given an amazing baby shower. Your Aunts did a wonderful job celebrating you coming into the world! It was held at your Aunt Jodi and Amber’s house where they had it decorated in “your” colors; Turquoise, Gray, and Orange. Your Aunt Trish, who you will soon discover is an amazing cook, cut cheeses, meats, vegetables, and fruits so there was plenty of food. And she made little tea sandwiches that were very good – and perfect! Perhaps one day you and I can do tea together. Your Aunt Shannon brought personalized candies and yummy cupcakes. I’m hopeful no one left starving.

There were so many people gathered- all people who will be excited to meet you! You had several Grandmothers present (and one in spirit who was sending lots of love), Aunts, Cousins, friends, and more. I was amazed at the variety of people gathered and was truly touched with how much support we have been given. Don’t ever doubt little one how loved and welcomed you are into the world! Even on our hardest days (and I know we’ll have some hard days), let’s just remind each other how much we are loved and supported.

While women gathered at Aunt Jodi’s, your Grandpa Ken and Dad hung curtains in your room and fixed your crib so that it will stay secure and safe for all the future bouncing you will do! It’s starting to feel more and more like you will be arriving soon!

You’ll learn about me when you get much, much older, that I like to be organized and prepared for all scenarios. This whole process has made me realize it’s not always possible! I’m working to keep up at work so that when you arrive, I’ll have notes for people who will cover for me when I’m out. I’m starting to let go of the idea that everything will be “perfect” when I leave for three months.

And, Daddy and I are starting to pack our “go bag” and like work, it’s just impossible to know about all the scenarios that we need to think about. So far I’ve packed a fan (in case it gets hot in the hospital room), a paint roller (long story but to help us rub each other’s backs), and toiletries. So much more to do! I promise you, we’ll be there no matter what happens.

We keep preparing little one for your arrival. We will be ready.

Love, Mom