27

Another year has passed and it is once again my birthday:) I was so blessed to have my parents come to visit this weekend to celebrate Easter and my birthday with us. They arrived on Good Friday and immediately started spoiling me. They showed up with a huge box with Lyla's name all over it:) The box contained about 8 packs of diapers, 2 adorable stuffed animals, 2 books, wipes, and 3 teething toys. I love seeing how excited they are about Lyla. We spent a good part of the weekend just cleaning up the nursery. Her crib won't be here until Monday, so it isn't quite as put together as I would like, but it is MUCH better than when they first got here.

We have a rocking chair that was given to his family by his grandparents and all 3 Graves boys were rocked in it when they were babies. Now I get to rock our precious baby in that same chair. I LOVE THAT! Dad and Jeff worked to sand it down and stain it so it will match her other furniture. It looks amazing!!!

We each took turns rocking in it...even Diggs got a turn!

Mom and Dad helped us so much. I hadn't really realized how much we needed them! It was such a blessing to have them come and be with us a a few days!
Of course, after we cleaned and worked on the nursery, Mom and I decided to get our nails done and then we all went out to eat!

They were able to stay with us through part of Easter Sunday and then they had to head back.  I'll be honest-I cried when they left. Sometimes (most of the time) it is so hard being away from our families. I truly cherrish every second we get to spend with them. I know that they will be back soon for Ms. Lyla's arrival, but it is never easy to say goodbye!

Monday was my actual birthday! Jeff and I started a tradition where we post signs around the house when it is the other's birthday. It is always fun to see what he comes up with. Here are a couple of the signs he made this year (ps. yes, that is really his handwriting-now you see why I don't ask him to help with thank you cards:))

He is so sweet though! He got me a full spa day (mani, pedi, full massage) and had doughnuts and coffee waiting for me that morning (he knows the way to my heart!)He also came up and surprised me at work with a cake. My 5th period class liked that, because he cut each of them a slice to enjoy while they worked. Later that night, he took me out to eat and took me to the shoe store (thanks to my wonderful father in law for the gift card!) :) Jeff is such a thoughtful husband and he really made my day special! He is going to be the best dadddy! He is already the best husband!

Thanks to all my friends who called, texted or wrote! You have no idea how much that meant to me. I miss you all so very much and seriously cannot wait to see many of you soon!!!

Hello Third Trimester!

How far along? 28 weeks!! I am officially in my third trimester! Home stretch:)

Total weight gain/loss: I am proud to admit that according to the doctor this week, I have gained a total of 14 lbs thus far! Not too bad. 

Maternity clothes? Yes, and I cannot wait to break out my spring/summer dresses which are the most  comfortable thing I can put on right now!

Stretch marks? None yet:)

Sleep: Not good at all. I even had to take the day off work today so I could catch my body up on some much needed rest. It is just very hard to get comfortable these days!

What I miss: Bending down to pick up things, shave my legs, etc. and good sleep. 

What I am looking forward to: My parents and sister visiting next weekend for my birthday/Easter. I cannot wait for them to see Lyla's room! Then, a few short weeks after that, we are flying to Texas to see Johnathon graduate and I will get to see my Graves family!!! SO much to look forward to! OH, and there is only a few short weeks of school left before summertime!!! YAY! 

Best moment this week: Getting to see Lyla in a 4D sonogram! She is so beautiful and is weighing in at 2lbs and 11 oz. 

 (Isn't she absolutely perfect!!??)

Movement: YES! She is extremely active when I get still. I love feeling her move!

Belly Button in or out? a barely innie...but  I am sure that I will wake up one of these days I will wake up and it will be an outtie!

Wedding rings on or off?  ON-Though I have taken the advice of my cousin Amy and have started taking them off at night which is when I typically tend to get hot. I would hate to have to cut them off because my fingers swelled. Better safe than sorry!

Weekly Wisdom: We have recently started child birth classes and we are gaining so much wisdom from it. This week we had to watch an actual birth and we talked about relaxation techniques! I know that I have no clue what to expect, but it does help having a little more knowledge to calm the fears. 

Milestones: Made it to the third trimester! It is so crazy to think that in a few short months, Lyla will be here!!!