Christmas on the Go!

The last several years we have had very busy Christmas' traveling back and forth to visit both of our families. I'm not sure how we're going to handle it all next year with a baby!

The Ross Family Christmas

The Marsh Family Christmas

The Wenner Family Christmas

It's certainly a BUSY time of the year, but it sure is wonderful to see everyone!

24 Weeks!

I can't believe it's already been 24 weeks! In less than 3 weeks, I'll already be in the 3rd trimester! Goodness.

Here is a little comparison.

17 weeks

24 weeks

(I'm trying hard not to notice the other body parts that seem to be growing just as fast . . .)

This is a view of what Ross is looking like.

(Sorry for some of the unnecessary graphic labels provided . . . )

I'm definitely feeling her kick . . . in fact, we're even starting to see her kick!

It's pretty amazing!

Each day seems to get more and more exciting!

The Name

Well, we finally did it. We've got a name!

I can't deny . . . I've been imagining random names for my children for years now . . . but it wasn't until recently that I came to realize how significant and meaningful a family name was.

Surprisingly, there wasn't much debate over it. Both Grady and I loved it almost immediately.

Baby Marsh = Ross McCullough Marsh

(We will call her Ross.)

Ross is my maiden name.

McCullough is Grady's grandmother's maiden name and sister's name.

ahh . . .

I feel like a weight has been lifted!

The Nursery: Step 3

Step 3: The Furniture

The Crib

I knew I wanted a modern crib, but had no intentions of spending $1000+ on one. So I was relieved to discover this crib from IKEA got fabulous reviews and was rated "A" by Baby Bargains 2009 (which, by the way, saved me hours of time on shopping around for all our baby gear).

The Shelving

Also from IKEA.

The Changing Table

This was a piece found and restored by Grady's mom a couple years ago. Up until this point I had been using it as my sewing table, but found that it would make a great changing table.

Side Table and Fun Piece

Two pieces found at recent flea markets . . . both old children's desks.

Now, on to accessories . . . the best part of all!

Salsa

We told Salsa about Baby Marsh today.

Sadly, she is refusing to comment . . .

The Gender Party!

FINALLY!

As hard as it was, every bit of the waiting was worth sharing such a special moment with our family!

(It's not enough that they share the same name, but how funny that our dad's dress alike, too!)

And the moment we've all been waiting for . . .

It's a . . .

GIRL!!!!!

All the "Pink People!"

All the "Blue's!"

. . . and one "Undecided!"

The boys, of course, couldn't resist a celebratory cigar!

Thanks to everyone for sharing such a wonderful day with us!

Boy or Girl?

We are most excited about the "gender party" this weekend! Grady and I are dying to know what we're having! But, what do you think?

The Nursery: Steps 1 & 2

Step 1: The Paint Color

I can't tell you the torture I go through picking out a paint color. I willingly admit- I am horrible at it. I certainly have visions of what I want, but when it comes to paint, you never know what will turn out.

So, after several trips to the paint store and a great deal of advice, I ended up choosing sample # 4.

And, I must say, I am THRILLED with it!

Step 2: The Light Fixture

The old one out . . .

. . . and the new one in!

I am most excited to say now, we are well on our way with the nursery! In fact, Grady accomplished even more than this . . .

but what's better than a little anticipation? :)

19 Weeks

I can't believe it! We are seriously almost half way through! Baby Marsh weighs about 8 oz. and measures about 6 1/2 inches from head to bottom. Although sometimes confused with gas (sorry, TMI), I'm pretty sure I've felt the baby move many times now.

This coming week is the BIG ultrasound! You may or may not know, we've decided to throw a "Gender Party" to include our family in on the big announcement! So, we won't actually find out the sex until then. (I stole that idea from "The Duggars.") The anticipation is killing us, but I know it will be worth it!

I am relieved to say, the nursery is finally coming along!! I will give Grady complete and total credit for the fresh new paint job! He is fabulous! (Pictures are soon to come.)

Overall, I'm feeling great! I am completely and totally exhausted at the end of the day, but still feeling well. I thank God for that, and pray it continues . . .

Happy Birthday, Cate!

Our niece Cate had the most precious 2nd birthday party this weekend . . . horse rides, hay rides, petting zoo, and smores! It doesn't get much better than that!!

Happy Birthday, sweet girl!