We had our baby shower this weekend and it was wonderful to spend some time with family and friends celebrating the baby we’re so eager to meet! Having so many people I love in one room was overwhelming in the best way possible. I’ve found that there is an abundance of encouragement, wisdom, and experience to be gained from the women/parents in our lives, from sharing regretful or hilarious parenting moments to a favourite brand of swaddle blankets or a cherished book, and I felt very tapped in to the network of moms, aunts, grandmas, cousins, and friends who have already “been there” or are currently there.

We have avoided buying any baby things since we found out the news (not easy for an expectant mama!), and it made receiving so many thoughtful, practical, handmade, and downright adorable gifts from those who love us (and her!) even more exciting. We were truly blown away by everyone’s generosity – thank you to all!

Fun Fact: this morning I did a little research about the origins of baby showers, and found that they are quite uncommon in the UK. Instead (according to Wikipedia) of celebrating a forthcoming baby by “showering” the mum-to-be with gifts and advice as we do in North America, Brits “wet the baby’s head,” by taking a new Dad to the pub for pints when his baby is born. Two very different (and very gender-cliche) customs! I think our little family will have to do both 🙂

*all photo credit goes to two of my aunties who saved the day by documenting all of the best and cutest moments! Thank you both!