Noah's Nursery

Dear Noah,

We are getting so close to the moment that we will get to hold you for the very first time. I've spent 9 months wondering what you'll look like, and smell like, and feel like in my arms. We've done everything we can think of to make your arrival perfect - your room is ready, your car seat is in place, your clothes are washed and tucked away, but what's really amazing is that in an instant you are going to make us a mother and a father - something we cannot prepare for, but only dream about.

I'm not sure how I feel about sharing you with everyone else. I know that might sound selfish but I don't mean it like that at all because I can't wait for you to meet your grandparents and aunts and uncles - there are so many people who just can't wait to meet you, but you've been ours - and especially mine for so long now. I know that you are a precious gift from God and I have never felt more honored or blessed that He chose me to be your home and to give you life. I don't know anymore what it will feel like to not have you inside of me - to be honest, it scares me a little bit, but then I think about laying eyes on you for the first time and holding you in my arms and I have an instant peace.

I can't wait to feed you and bathe you and to count your fingers and toes. I can't wait to smell your skin and kiss you from top to bottom a million times. I can't wait to see your Daddy hold you for the first time and to watch as your family meets you for the very first time. I can't wait for Jaffe, Stella, and Deisel to look into your carrier with total curiosity for the first time. So many firsts to look forward to!

You already have our hearts, my love.

With wonderment and excitement,

Mom

Weeks 33 & 34

Noah and I had a pretty busy two weeks! Caleb Isaac Bowers was born on April 9th at 3:08 PM. I was in the delivery room the entire time and it was such an incredible miracle! I was a little hesitant to be in the room because of my upcoming delivery (I didn't want to feel nervous or worried), but I couldn't pass up the opportunity to see my nephew enter this world. The whole process actually really put my mind at ease. I never imagined it to be so laid back and calm. The nurses and doctors were great. I pray that my delivery is as safe and healthy as Andrea's.

I had my doctors appointment on the 15th. Noah's heartbeat was strong and in the 140's. He still seems to be head down. I gained another 3lbs bringing my total to 29lbs.

Lately it looks and feels like Noah is trying to borrow out of my belly. It's such a neat feeling (although sometimes a bit painful), and something I wouldn't trade for anything! He's found what must be a comfy spot directly on/under my ribs. It's hard to believe that Noah is only about 4.5lbs right now. When he makes my belly move all around, he looks and feels a whole lot bigger.

Brian's band mates threw me a surprise baby shower on Saturday. It was so nice and very special! They really went out of their way to make me feel welcome in their circle. The food, friends, gifts, and fellowship was really perfect.

Week 32

8 weeks to go! It's unbelievable. I feel very pregnant, but great. I've actually never felt better. Aside from the back pain and overall exhaustion, I feel healthy and beautiful. I love feeling my round belly. I can actually feel how Noah is laying sometimes.

We had our 2 week check-up this week. I gained another 3 lbs making my current total 26 lbs. Noah's heartbeat was strong.

We have most of the nursery finished. A few details to go. Noah's little clothes are washed and folded. We will be packing the hospital bag soon!!!

Week 30

Our 3D sonogram was awesome! Our little boy is adorable and just as precious as we imagined. He kept his one hand up over his eye for most of the session, but we were still able to get many great pictures.

My mom and Andrea gave me a beautiful baby shower on Saturday. Everything was truly perfect! Andrea hosted the shower at her house. The decorations were adorable, the food was delicious - every single detail was absolutely amazing. Many friends and family came to celebrate and spoil baby Noah! My dad made Noah a truck toy box, which is so special and something that we'll treasure forever. Brian and I were so excited about all of Noah's new 'stuff' that we came home and put all of it together :). We can't wait to watch him enjoy everything!!

I go to the doctor's now every two weeks. I gained 3 lbs in two weeks (total = 23lbs).

I am so blessed to experience every incredible joy of this pregnancy with my loving family and friends!

Baby Noah's Glamour Shot Session

Week 28

I'm still completely fascinated by Noah's movement. I've found that he moves around a lot if I rub my belly, which is so sweet to me. It makes me feel like he's comforted by our touch.

We had our 7 month check-up this week. Mom and baby are doing great! The doctor said that Noah's head was down, his back was along my right side and his little legs and toes were wrapped across the top of my belly. I've been feeling a lot of something on the bottom of my right ribs..it must be his butt!

My belly button is a full outtie now, but it's very soft so it doesn't go through my clothing. I can watch him move all around making one side of my belly big until he gets situated.

We are going to our Womb With a View appointment on 3/20. I can't wait to see him again. It's been since December that we've seen our little boy.

I gained another 5 lbs, bringing my grand total to 140. I'm carting around an extra 20 lbs and I wonder why I'm a little winded walking around :). I've finally started to really feel pregnant. Some things are uncomfortable - my back hurts at times and my walk has definitely changed, but I wouldn't trade a moment of this for anything in the world. I LOVE having the privilege of carrying God's precious gift.