The Last Trimester

     Everyone told me that the last trimester would be the longest part and that it would drag on. That hasn't been my experience at all! I can not believe how fast this whole pregnancy has gone. Don't get me wrong, I have been pregnant since December so looking back it seems that I've been sporting a baby bump for a very long time, but now that I'm at the end it seems like a blink. Here are a few things that I've learned during this season in my life :)

*Worrying doesn't help or change anything. It just gives you high blood pressure!
*Food cravings aren't always weird. Mine just takes me back to my childhood - PB&J Sandwiches and Root Beer Floats.
*A body pillow might just save your life.
*Strange dreams are now the norm.
*Ask for help! Friends and family are waiting to do things for you. 
*I took for granted being able to tie my shoes or get dressed. At this point those things cut off all breathing or circulation. 
*Whether you waddle or have swollen feet (or both!) your husband will still think you are beautiful!
*Since this is our first baby I'm reminded everyday to cherish the last few moments that Cameron & I have together as a couple. 
*PRAY! 

Last week's belly picture!

     As I prepare to be Merritt's Mama I am humbled and blessed that God has given me this amazing task. It's only because of His faithfulness that my husband and I are in this place today. While we have a lot to learn (actually we have EVERYTHING to learn!) I know that if we trust the Lord we will be parents worthy of this special calling. Keep me in your prayers during this last 2 weeks leading up to Merritt's due date. Everyday brings new feelings - ready but nervous! 

Thanks for stopping by! Make sure to officially "follow" my blog! 

xoxo,

Lindsey

Passing The Time

While I have a list a mile long of things to-do before the baby arrives I decided that sewing was one of them this morning! I have to admit that I've been a little frustrated at the selection of boys clothes that stores offer these days. With the exception of Baby Gap, Naartjie and H&M, most other stores carry all the same onesies, pants and with that comes a monkey, dog or monster. Not my favorite! While out shopping with my mom and sister last week I came across a darling pair of orange linen pants with a vintage giraffe at a boutique. Considering that they were $35 and that baby would probably only wear them for a short time I passed them up. I did check out how easy they would be to make but it's really the fabric that made them cute! We just so happened to walk into a thrift store after that and on the sale rack was a orange linen dress for $3. I grabbed it off the rack and knew what I was going to make! While it didn't have vintage giraffe's on it, it was also $32 cheaper and I love a good deal. Now to take apart the dress and use the fabric! Here is a before picture:

 I used a pattern I had from a book called Handmade Beginnings by Anna Maria Horner. 

Here is the link to her book which I highly recommend! http://store.annamariahorner.com/seamstome1.html. I don't normally use patterns because I like to create my own unique pieces but for these pants I decided to follow some direction :) 

and I did make some modifications as well.

Starting to take shape!

 When I finished the pants I decided that I needed a onesie to match! You can take any design you'd like to cut out of fabric, use heat and bond adhesive and transfer that design onto just about anything! I made an elephant with a floppy ear to match his pants and had a green star button which added the perfect finishing touch.

Elephant onesie and pants (front).

Back view of pants.

Now I really do have to get some house work done and try to have my hospital bag packed! 

Pregnant Mamas

     I have been blessed during this pregnancy to be joined by a lot of my friends who are sharing this first-time experience too. Every time I turn around I feel like someone else has announced that they are expecting. What a fun time to share - whether it's the first kicks, braxton hicks or labor and delivery, each girl has been able to talk about her experience which gives the next one encouragement. A few have already given birth and I love watching their little ones grow and others have yet to deliver and I am a part of that club for a little while longer. Cheer's and blessing to all my mama friends!

(From left to right) Ariana - due in October;  Danielle - due in October; Sarah gave birth to Colin in February; Lindsey (me!) due in September; Lindy gave birth to Cohen in February; Crystal due in January.

Megan due in September & Holly gave birth to Eisley Grace 1 week ago

Sweet Sarah and Colin

Lindy & Cohen :)

Holly and Eisley Grace 

Name Change & Updates!

     First off, I have no idea where the time has gone! My last post was in the middle of July so I'm sorry for not posting anything sooner. I've been thinking about the blog and there are going to be a few changes coming up. I ended up changing the name! What do you think? Also, I'm trying to improve the function of the blog so hopefully that will be done soon.

     Merritt's due date is approaching very quickly! In about 4 1/2 weeks our little guy could make his debut, unless he decides to come late or early. We are ready for him! This past week Cameron and I attended our hospital's all day birthing class and took a tour of the birthing center. While this was a VERY long day of information it was also very helpful! It put labor and delivery in perspective for me. I'm going to need a lot of prayer! :) We have also installed the car seat in my car, finished the nursery, and made lots of lists that need to be finished before he arrives (if I don't write things down at this point my pregnancy brain eats it up!). All that is left is to pack our bags and leave them by the door.

     Pregnancy symptoms have drastically changed this week. My feet are no longer my feet! Jake, my brother-in-law decided that "Big Foot" was an appropriate nickname for me at this point. I can no longer bend over and pick anything up, no matter how hard I try. I officially have to rely on people more to help me which takes quite an adjustment mentally since I like to be independent. So, thank you to my family and friends that have to pick up after me now! 

See! I wasn't lying! 

     The nursery is finished with the exception of some closet organization and a lampshade! I'm excited to share these pictures with you! Please leave me your comments and let me know what you think :) 

Ta da! I have to admit that I am in love with his room!

My mother-in-law recovered the glider that a friend gave us

My dad make the bookshelves and there will be one more at the top!  He has quite the book collection already!

Paper lantern mobile.

M is for Merritt.

I LOVE his crib and bedding!

    
 I've also been finishing projects and thought I'd post the diaper bag that I made for Merritt. Here it is!

Front

Back

Inside Pockets

     Thanks for stopping by! Please leave me a comment. I would love to hear your feedback! Until next time...