Showertime!

No, this post isn't about showering while pregnant :)

Last month, I was incredibly fortunate to have both Mike and my family each throw me a baby shower. They were beautiful and filled with wonderful family and friends. I am so grateful to have such an amazing support system throughout my whole pregnancy.

The first shower was in Cleveland with my family and friends from the area and my dear friend Ashlee who came in from New York. It was so wonderful to see every one and to celebrate The Bean with you all!

Here are some photos from the Cleveland shower at L'Albatros

Macaroons and Madeleines 

Mini versions of our wedding cupcakes

Onesie painting!

Posing for the obligatory "Bump Photo"

 Some Cleveland girlfriends, Katie and Liza

Re-gifted my beloved stuffed monkey from childhood, Minkey.

The following weekend, we traveled to Chicago for a shower with Mike's family. I've been so blessed to be welcomed into such a warm and loving family. It was so lovely to see everyone and I can't wait to bring The Bean to Chicago meet everyone. 

Here are some photos from the Chicago shower

31 week bump in Chicago

It's hard to read here, but the Hershey bar says "HE or SHE  how we wonder what you'll be" 

More delicious cupcakes!

My niece, Megan, made a calendar game to guess the baby's gender and due date

My Mother-in-Law, Sisters-in-Law and nieces who threw the beautiful shower!

Mike, The Bean and I are grateful for everyone who has reached out to us in one way or another over the last 8 months. The Bean is beyond blessed to have you all in his or her life. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts!

In other Bean related news, I am now at 36 weeks and ready to meet this baby! The Bean is still measuring a bit small but this is to be expected given my size. It turns out that while Dad's genetics will help to account for size as the kid grows up, Mom's body size primarily determines the baby's size while "on the inside". Otherwise, everything is perfect with The Bean. In fact, at my latest midwife appointment, I found out that I am already 80% effaced and starting to dilate. Maybe The Bean will make his or her grand entrance before the year is up and score ol' Mom and Dad a tax break ;) Or The Bean will be stubborn like Momma and arrive 10 days late. Eek!

At 36 Weeks...    

A festive 36 week bump!

Baby Schell is the length of: a head of Romaine Lettuce

Weighs: approx 5.5lbs

Heartbeat: 145bpm 

I'm feeling: Good but slow. Turns out this basketball attached to my belly has really slowed me down.

I'm craving: Chocolate and fruit non-stop. Good thing it's the holidays!

My belly looks: Round and out there

My bellybutton is: Flat as a pancake

Nursery progress: Just need to hang some art, get a glider in there and we will be all done! Pics to come soon :)

Happy Holidays from The House of Schells to yours! xoxo!