It was a day to remember, that’s for sure. It flew by in a whirlwind–a whirlwind of love, encouragement and gifts. I’m so grateful for the gift of photos to help me remember it all. For I never want to forget this day–the day we celebrated our sweet baby girl.
Upon entering, flower crowns awaited! These hold a special place in my heart. On our wedding day, our pastor surprised us with the very words that God had first spoken to me the night we got engaged. Then he continued with the passage from Isaiah 61 that included the following:
“to bestow on them a crown of beauty
instead of ashes…”
Before this pregnancy we went through a miscarriage that felt like nothing short of ashes. And yet here we are with this blessing of our daughter, and well, it feels like a crown of beauty.
Beyond that there was “Guess the Due Date.” Though I suppose it’s really “Guess the Birthday” as we know our due date is August 17!
Outside there were two other activities–“late night diapers” and “advice for the parenthood.” I absolutely loved reading those sweet and funny advice cards!
And then of course there was THE most gorgeous backdrop for photo taking!
Inside there was more food than anyone could have asked for! My mom and sister brought food-themed books for extra decor!
There were my favorite desserts–Sprinkles gluten free chocolate cupcakes and chocolate-covered strawberries…
… and cookies that were *almost* too cute to eat! (Key word: almost. They were delicious!)
We played a couple of games–“beer belly or baby belly” and “daddy knows best.” My hostesses had made a video interview of Clay answering the questions below. I guessed what he would say before we watched his sweet answers.
My sister gave a speech so heartfelt it made me cry…
I opened so many lovely gifts for our precious girl. It was truly a bit overwhelming–in the best way!
And we took a big group photo which I’m SO glad to have!
Upon exiting were the party favors–sweet little succulents under our string of sonogram photos.
My baby shower was truly all I wanted–to be surrounded by these women I love–and so much more.
I’m so grateful to my gorgeous hostesses for such a beautiful, thoughtful and memorable day.
My sweet grandmother even made it out with my mom and sister from Texas!
And Clay came by at the end!
If I could sum up the day in just one photo, it would be this one…
I don’t remember exactly what was said, but I know my mom was telling some story (likely about my childhood) before she prayed for our meal.
As Walt Whitman said, “We were together… I forget the rest.”
. . .
Thank you to my sweet friend Sarah {Apple Rose Photography} for the unexpected gift of many of these photos.
. . .
As I climbed into bed that night, body achy, feet tired, and heart full, there was a twinge of emotion that rose up within me. I couldn’t help but think of our babies who would never be celebrated. And I wept for them.
And then I thought about them being with Jesus which brought rest and peace to my soul and a smile to my face. And then I thought to our sweet baby girl in my belly gently moving about. And my eyes welled with tears once again at the the joyous thought of holding her soon in our arms.
I am so grateful for this day of being showered in celebration of her little life. It’s a precious one.
But now thus says the LORD, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: “Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine.” – Isaiah 43:1
