July Photos

I love blue sky in July!  August here we come!

Dear Baby,

Your due date is getting really close.  10 days until August 1st, which seems even closer now that I type it.  When I think about 10 days ago, I realize that was just yesterday.  So you'll be here just like tomorrow. 

I've been home a lot, since this is summer vacation, but I can't say I've been very productive.  I'm sorry if all of your things aren't organized when you get here.  I'm really a procrastinator, and not knowing the day you'll be here is not helpful for people like me.  No firm deadline?  You mean, I should get things done now? They say that the "nesting instinct" will kick in right before you come, and I'm hoping that happens.  There is still laundry to be done, clothes to be put away, boxes to be unpacked...maybe when I actually feel like doing these things, it will be my first sign that you are on your way?

The past few nights you must have really liked the pizza, and tacos and ribs I ate because you've been moving and shifting around my belly so much that it takes on all kinds of weird shapes.  Your dad and I watch in amazement, and he thinks it means you really want out of there.  Overall, you haven't been the most active baby, but when you move, you move.  I like to think you like a fine balance of exercise and rest, just like me.

We still haven't decided on what to call you.  It bothers me a little that I'm always changing my mind--it would be fun to start calling you Baby____.  Your dad wants to name you a name that is much less common than the other ones on our list.  I just can't decide.  But then I remember that you'll be here soon, we'll see your face, and then maybe we'll know.

You're going to change our lives really soon.  The enormity of having our own child has hit us at funny times.  I love watching your dad talk about this:  "He's going to be here so soon!" he says, and I think we are both filled with a mix of anticipation, nervousness, excitement and awe.  We are going to be your parents.

I'm going to keep praying that you'll enter this world healthy, and that we will do the right things as your new parents.  The other day during yoga class the instructor told us to send whatever message came into our minds to our baby, and right away I began to think, "Dear baby, I promise to love you.  I promise to love you no matter who you are or what you become.  I will love you."

See you soon!

Love,
Your mom

Two Years

Today is our two year anniversary, and I feel very blessed when I think back on my life so far with Steve.  We've known each other for almost 10 years, have been married for 2, and I smile when I think about what's still to come.


Two Years from rachel trudelle on Vimeo.

10 on 10: July

A pretty relaxing summer day in and around our new home.  It's hard to believe that we'll (most likely!) have a new little baby by the time the next 10th rolls around. :)

Check out many great sets here!

June Photos

A little late, but fun to look back on June.  I love summer.

35 Weeks and Showers

How far along? 35 weeks, 4 days

Baby fact: Most basic development is done.  Time for baby to pack on the pounds (most likely over 5 pounds already!)

Symptoms: It just takes a bit longer to get around, but overall, feeling great! My belly just keeps growing and growing. Haven't been feeling any Braxton Hicks contractions, but maybe sometime soon?

Movement: Yes, and my stomach is often lopsided from his shifting.  He's head down, butt up, and moves from side to side, making my belly looks like a cone sometimes.

Sleep: It's been ok.  The long body pillow is essential!

Dreams: I can't remember any recently...

Cravings: Fruit juices/smoothies.  I probably buy a Naked juice every day.

Favorite moments: Definitely my baby shower weekend (see below).  I felt so special and it made everything seem so real.

On the to-do list: Finish up the nursery (still lots to do), birth plan, pick up a few baby essentials.  We just checked off a big one when we moved out of our little duplex and into our very first house.  It's a bit overwhelming, but fun at the same time.

Looking forward to: Our baby's birthday!  I have been feeling more excited than nervous lately, and I find myself constantly daydreaming about what he will look like, be like, and how our lives will change.

A few weeks ago we celebrated Baby Trudelle's impending arrival with a baby shower weekend.  My mom and sister hosted an evening shower at my mom's house with some family and friends.  Then, on Saturday, the ladies of our small group hosted another shower in the afternoon.  I didn't take as many photos as I usually like (hey I was busy opening amazing gifts!), but here's a peek into my weekend.

We played some fun games at the first shower (lots of competitive ladies there).

My friend Ginger generously hosted another shower at her house, and the theme was lavender (my favorite!) with a vintage "school" vibe.  Perfect.

I didn't get pictures of everyone (I need one of our small group still!), but we had to capture the yellow coordination that was going on with Michelle, Mckenzie and me.

Two of my favorite pregnant ladies (Paige, I like you too).  It's so fun sharing this time with you!!

My family.  I'm blessed to have the love and support of all of these women and friends!

10 on 10: June

A lovely Sunday, celebrating accomplishments.  See more 10 on 10 sets here!