12 Weeks TO GO!

We are at 28 weeks already!  Wow how time sure does go by fast.  12 weeks to go!  We've done some pretty amazing things since the last blog update.  The coolest thing so far was the 3D/4D ultrasound.  At about 25 weeks we got some AMAZING pictures of Miss Harper Grace.  This place advises you to drink something sugary or eat some fruit in the morning prior to coming to get the baby moving around.  Harper was on sugar overload!  She was moving like a crazy person, but it was SO cool to see her up on the big screen.  They ended up recording 10 minutes of the ultrasound and put it on a CD to music.  Coolest thing ever.  It's been exciting to show our friends & family.  We think she's pretty cute!  You can see some of the pictures for yourself! (Remember, if you click on the photos, you can see them at full-size)

We think she's going to be an athlete.  I know she only weighs about 3 pounds right now, but girl has got some calves!  She should for all that kicking and moving around she is doing in there.  She is definitely very active.  At first, I was really worried about her - thought something was wrong.  Then I read online and got super worried - if they are active in the womb, WATCH OUT & GOOD LUCK when they come out. :)  My mom is snickering right now... 

Future Ohio State Kicker?  Gymnast?  Boxer?  She's got a mean 1-2 punch!

Things are definitely moving along.  I can't sit still, so we have finally moved out most of the "stuff" in the computer room minus the big furniture items.  My mom, dad, & Ashley are coming over the weekend of August 5th and we are painting the room.  G-HA Marti was in town this past weekend and was so gracious to get us our rocker at Babies R Us.  We love it.  Luckily, we ordered it in time as it says it can take 10-12 weeks to get here.  Considering we are at about 12 weeks (almost 11!), we got it ordered in enough time IF the baby isn't early!  It will be nice to get the room done and start putting things in place!

We found a babysitter!!  Thanks to Courtney (God love her) she had been mentioning to Delaney's sitter that I was interested if she had an opening.  And thank goodness - she finally had one as one of the older kids is going to pre-school.  I met Brandy, her husband Tony, and their daughter Sierra last week.  I LOVE THEM.  They are all so nice and caring and really love the children in their home.  She has been doing this for about 10 years and has such a great spirit.  I know she takes fantastic care of Delaney and it comforts me to know that Miss Delaney will be looking after Harper every day!  She also lives about 2 miles from our house, so it's super convenient!  Not to mention it's about 1/2 the cost of daycare!  WAHOO!  Rudi and I are going over there on Friday for Rudi to meet them, to hand over the paperwork and deposit, and finalize the deal.  What a HUGE relief!!

I signed Rudi & I up for birthing classes yesterday.  It is a 5-week session at the doctor's office.  I'm looking forward to it.  I have no idea what to expect.  They tell us to bring 2 bedroom pillows and a blanket plus a snack and a drink.  They are 2.5 hours each session.  After the 3rd session, we get to take a tour of the hospital.  I think it will be exciting to do with Rudi and will give us a better idea of what we are getting ready to go through!

We've also started clearing out some extra space for all the new baby items we know are about to invade our home.  Harper has her very own cabinet space now in the kitchen and I've started making room in the pantry, as well.  I can't stop!  It is also really weird to see the bassinet in our bedroom (Courtney let us borrow one - so cute!).  We try to keep reminding each other to enjoy the peace & quiet and normalcy of lives because it is about to change.  But, we are SO excited for what is to come.  It's just crazy to think that this person inside of me will be out soon!!  

Lots has been done, but there is still so much to do.  I am so thankful for the showers that I have coming up!  Aunt Ashley & Aunt Shelley are throwing me my first shower next weekend!  I am looking forward to seeing everyone and having a great time!  My wonderful co-workers are giving me a shower on Sunday August 28th, then we have the Couples Shower on September 11th hosted by Courtney, Carmen, & Mauri.  Rudi & I feel so blessed to have so many thoughtful and generous people in our lives to make this moment special!  We can't thank everyone enough and can't wait for everyone to meet Miss Harper Grace!  

Last note - my 28 week check-up was on Tuesday July 19th.  Doctor said as she listened to her heartbeat "She's a feisty one!"  She also said I am measuring a week early, but she is not worried about it.  She asked if we were big babies...I was around 7 pounds, but Rudi said he was like 8.5 pounds.  YIKES!  However, she comforted me by saying usually the baby follows the mothers birth weight.  God, let's hope so!!  Now I go to my appointment every 2 weeks and start going every week in September.  She's coming ya'll! 

I will update you again at 32 weeks!  But for now, I will leave you with the latest belly pic at 28!  Love to all!