Day 8: A new band, a growth scan, a baby shower, and lessons learned

"Challenges are what make life interesting; overcoming them is what makes life meaningful." - Mark Twain

I'm still here and Mr. Stacey is still in my belly. It's a good day :)  It's funny that even while on bedrest, so many great things can happen in a day. Last night, some dear friends from work came to throw me a true "Southern Lady" baby shower. My parents brought the unwrapped gifts from my Arkansas Shower and we took pictures and watched me open the gifts.

 You all may know that I missed my baby shower that was to be in Arkansas last weekend and I was quite sad about it. The Wisconsin ladies thought it appropriate to wear Southern Hats, pearls, and eat BBQ in the spirit of what they thought may be what we Southern ladies do at a shower! Ha! It was one of the sweetest things anyone has ever done for me. Such good friends I have!

The ladies :)

I also had a visit from my friend Kelly. She brought me a knitting loom and some sweet treats :)  Perfect gift!

Although my friends and family from far away couldn't be here to celebrate with me, I felt their kindness. Lindsay, one of my best friends, was one of the hostesses of the baby shower I did not get to attend.. She made an awesome diaper wreath that I can't wait to hang up in the nursery and also spoiled Mr. Stacey with a huge basket full of gifts! Among Lindsays gifts were countless others from friends and family; including, gifts from my cousins Angel and Sabrina who were also part of the team to put on my baby shower. Ugh, gotta admit I am sad I missed that shower!!!!

Today I had my 28 week growth scan. I don't get nervous with scans or ultrasounds anymore, which is a good thing. I accept that whatever they find will be out of my control.  Luckily today was in my favor. Mr. Stacey weighed in at a healthy 2 pounds, 5 ounces! He had plenty of fluid surrounding him and was happy as a little clam in there. He yawned and waved and showed off a little for me today. I couldn't stop staring at his sweet face....

The hard part of my day was seeing my parents off (until next month) to Arkansas.
Their visit made me realize that, holy cow, I'm about to be a parent! I saw this week how selfless we are toward our children and we really will do anything for them. My Mom showed me her unconditional love and I will never forget this time I spent with her. She was here for me during the most difficult time of my life and will continue to be supportive.
 I couldn't be happier to have such a sweet Mom. I learn lessons from her every day and hope to be the strong and encouraging Mother that she has been for me.

One of the goals I have set myself to pass the time is to listen to a new band at least every other day.

Kyle recommended a couple of blogs for me to explore. One being: www.myoldkentuckyblog.com to get me started on this endeavor. I have had some good luck so far! The band I explored today is called HAIM. It is a group composed of 3 sisters who have been working hard for their band since 2005. The song I couldn't stop listening to was called: "Falling". It was inspirational, uplifting, and I like the beat....not to mention it is an all girl band - which I Like :)
 The song "falling" reminded me to never give up. Here is a link to the blog to listen to it.
http://www.myoldkentuckyblog.com/?p=38530
I do have this song now on my itunes, however, I haven't quite figured out how to get it on the blog. For now, follow the link. I will put "how to put itunes songs on blog" on my "to do" for tomorrow :)

See you tomorrow!