Payton Joy's Nursery

The walls are painted a light lavender, and the furniture is cherry wood. Michael did an awesome job installing the hardwood floors, too. It's exactly what I had envisioned!

Opryland Hotel's Christmas Lights

When Michael and I first became a couple in 2004, one of our first dates was to go see the lights at Opryland Hotel. We figured it was time for us to make another visit to the beautiful hotel since our little one will be here soon, and it just might be one of our last "dates" before we become parents forever.

We enjoyed walking through the Cascades Conservatory and the Delta Island to watch the dancing waterfalls, listen to holiday music, and absorb the millions of Christmas lights. It sure put me in the holiday spirit! I'm ready to put up my Christmas tree, now! Moreover, it was a special memory for us to make right before PJ's arrival into our little world. Who knew we'd end up getting married and having our first baby just four years after our first date at Opryland? Life is funny...but kinda neat like that.

36 weeks

I started maternity leave this week, and I've been running myself ragged with all the last minute appointments and things to get checked off my to-do list. It's silly, really, but after this week maybe I'll be able to rest a little more. We are still interviewing pediatricians but hope to make a decision by next week. I still have to pack my hospital bag and pick out my "labor music" but other than that, I feel totally ready for this baby!! My 36 week check up was good and normal, and my cervix is still in tact! No dilation yet. I'd like to take bets with all you folks who are SO sure she's coming early . We shall see...

Here's my 36 week belly: