My wonderful father-in-law, to me, over the weekend: "Alright, now that Emmy's on the way you've been dethroned as the Princess."
"Oh, no. I haven't been dethroned; I was promoted... to Queen."
Labor Day weekend 2013 was just wonderful, and having Friday and Monday off made it EXTRA amazing. I had been looking forward to it for weeks, because my friends and several sweet ladies from Dillon were giving me a shower.
They went ALL out, and I am unbelievably grateful for every last detail. Just wait until you see for yourself!
These girls and ladies mean the WORLD to me!!!
Some of the BEST friends, minus sweet Kate who is due to have Gabe any day now. Please say a prayer for her!
All their hard work gave them privileges to do the unthinkable...touch my belly! You may remember my former phobia about this.
The "Goodnight Moon" guest book: "Please share your wishes, prayers, and advice for Katharine, Ryan, and Emmy."
There were also sheets for everyone to fill out, and I had a blast reading them!
The "Midnight Diaper supply"...allow me to explain:
Directions: Write a message to Katharine and Ryan for one of Emerson's many midnight diaper changes. Be creative! Your message can be funny, encouraging, or sentimental. Suggestions:
Smile! It's 2AM!
Enjoy me; I'll grow up fast!
Isn't it Daddy's turn?
Oops! I did it again!
I have a surprise for you!
So many diapers, so little time.
HILARIOUS!
I adored the corsage. Unbelievable!!! There were pink pearls on the other side.
Then there was the FOOD display, which was sensationally phenomenal. From the homemade cupcake bouquet and raspberry punch to the crown cookies that are the closest thing to a drug that I'll ever encounter. The hostesses did an absolutely amazing job and should be expecting a call from Kensington Palace to provide the refreshments for Prince George's baby dedication.
Then there was the center of attention: the centerpiece on the table was actually a MUSICAL POTTY, complete with a crown. This. made. my. day!!!
It actually plays music to reward a "successful" potty trip. A few of the songs I imagine it playing are as follows:
1) Tinkle Tinkle, Little Star
2) Raindrops Keep Fallin' On My Head
3) Bombs Away
A few highlights from Emerson's sweet gifts. See the piano???
This outfit could not have said it better... "Daddy & I agree. MOMMY is the boss!"
The generous hostess gift was our much needed high chair. Can you imagine how messy of an eater our little girl will be? I, for one, am known to use no less than 200 napkins on an average trip to Cici's. If history is any indication I hope this chair includes a complementary pressure washer.
I knew I wanted to do something extra special for the hostess gifts, and after much research I finally decided what they would be.
I used Sharpie markers to paint ceramic plates for each hostess with their last name. Once the design is finished you bake them in the oven for 30 minutes so the ink will "set." I ended up going over them again with marker when they came out, since some of the colors faded, but my two-weekend process of creating these was well worth it, and I wanted each of them to know how deeply I appreciated all their hard work, preparation, and above all, love!
The whole event was just incredible, and I LOVE these girls and ladies more than you can say. Many of us played on the playground at East and were also by each others' side during our weddings. How special!!!
And after such an elaborate morning containing more sweets than a factory I was SO pleased to have a good sugar reading later that day. (For those who may not know, I have gestational "diabeetus"...)
I'm gradually getting used to counting Goldfish crackers and grapes, but I still can't wait for the day when I can open a fresh bag of chips and go to town.
:::SIREN::::
:::ALARM:::::
WE DETECTED AN EXTRA SERVING OF CHEEZ-ITS!!!
I have to eat six small meals a day: breakfast, lunch, and dinner with three additional snacks. My official favorite times of the day are the snacks.
WHOOP WHOOOOOP!
Ryan seems to be around every time I announce that it's time for me to eat again.
He finally said, "Geez; I want diabetes."
The goal is not to go too long without eating so your blood sugar doesn't drop too low. While it is annoying to have to eat a snack in front of everyone during Sunday School, at least it serves a purpose. If I waited until after the service to eat again I would most likely be playing a drunken Doxology for the postlude, and somehow I don't think the congregation would appreciate that.
At almost 32 weeks now I'm used to getting strange stares from people of all ages as I go about my business to the grocery store, Belk, etc. Why is it that strangers feel inclined to make comments and ask annoying questions?
And my personal favorite: when asked how much longer I have (less than two months) it is usually followed with, "Wow. You're not going to make it that long!"
EXCUSE ME?! Who says that??
Let's imagine that those same people are visiting a relative in the hospital who is waiting for a life saving operation:
"The surgery is scheduled for next Tuesday."
"Nope. I just don't see you making it until then. Check off that bucket list while you can."
Or, "My 90th Birthday is in two months."
"Gracious. Too bad you won't be seeing it. Better call the bakery and cancel that cake order."
The AUDACITY!
Excuse me, sir? The nurse would like to know if you want 500 or 1000 thread count sheets to line your casket.
Sheesh. At least when I go home my family knows better than to make such comments.
Nothing but love here.
I was so glad to spend time with them over the long weekend and play one of our favorite games, Categories. It's very simple: you choose categories, select letters, and are then timed for 1 1/2 minutes on each column. This particular night Ryan suggested, "Things found in a cemetery" as one of the categories.
While going around the table with our answers my Dad said "catafalque," which is the box that is used to support a casket. I thought he said, "catapult."
To you, oh Lord, we commend Thy servant. ZOOM!!!
We absolutely DIED laughing over my misunderstanding. I then yelled, "Baklava!!!" and was met with more stares of confusion.
"What??? Isn't that greek for goodbye?"
"NO, Katharine. Baklava is a pastry."
See you later. Adios. Baklava!
I laughed so loudly and so hard that Emerson probably thought it was time for her arrival. There is absolutely never a dull moment in our house.
Of course football season began last Thursday, sending Ryan into a fanatical tailspin. For days before the official fantasy football draft he kept reminding me that he'd need my computer and peace and quiet during those few hours. No kidding. He was so engrossed in his fantasy team that I considered asking his approval for one of the following things:
A) May I order a custom chandelier from Italy for Emerson's room?
B) Can I schedule a pool installation in our backyard for next week? Nothing elaborate; just your everyday pool...
3) Would it be okay for me to leave this small mess in the kitchen overnight?
None of those would have fazed him, and in hindsight, that was a missed opportunity. Until next year's fantasy football...
Speaking of sweet Ryan, his family is going through a lot right now as his beloved grandfather is in his final days. For those of you who have been through this, it is tough on the family to see loved ones suffer. They would definitely appreciate your prayers.
This past Sunday was our annual dinner on the grounds! I look forward to this every year. They have FRIED CHICKEN...hallelujah, yes, Jesus!!!
Change your perspective this week, and focus on the eternal. Someone recently reminded me that there are five gospels: Matthew, Mark, Luke, John, and YOU. Most people won't read the first four. So meditate on that next time you experience temptation of any kind or are about to be led astray. Someone is surely watching, and you may be the only Christ they see.
I hope you and your family had a wonderful Labor Day weekend! Things are about to get really exciting around here...and you know I'll keep you posted : D
Baklava!
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