Thursday 31 May 2012

School's Out

After 18 assignments, 12 long months (9 of which were spent being pregnant) and a total 6 weeks of exams, I wrote my final paper today. Granted, it's been a while since I last had to suck so much information from my thumb, it's still a pretty momentous occasion!

It's a bit of a strange feeling. It's been an unforgettable year: starting my first assignment on a flight to the UK, many late nights and early mornings searching the web, and textbooks keeping me company on weekend shifts. And just when I thought I was beginning to successfully juggle work and studying, we found out we had a baby on the way, and I moved into a new job. Who could have predicted all that would change during this time?

When I look back, I think if I had known the challenges I would face, I may never have begun. But God is so good like that: even in the most difficult times, He always provided me with someone or something to help and support me, and right until the end, He has held both Peanut and me in His protective hand. Whether I've been quietly confident or a near nervous wreck, I know that this was always part of His perfect plan for my life...

And so tonight I pack the books away. And just as this season ends, a new one begins: the student becomes the teacher; the child becomes a mother - and I'm pretty sure that combination will keep me occupied... until my next qualification anyway! :)

Monday 7 May 2012

Preparing for Peanut

Yesterday, Peanut and I were invited to a little tea party - for us! While Andel and I were doing very little preparing for Peanut, Ashleigh and Dominique spent the better part of the last few weeks planning a baby shower!

Most of our closest friends and family were present to participate in the fun and share in the excitement. We played games (the golden oldies beat the pants off us at Baby Bingo), did foil-art (who knew it required so much brain power) and tested my baby knowledge (I think it's safe to say this mommy-to-be is still in the teething phase of motherhood!). The family and friends overseas were sorely missed, but fondly remembered as Ash shared the letters they sent for us.

Even Peanut got a name tag :)
 
Ash explaining the rules of the games


Can you spot the other pregnant fairies?

Of course, a tea party just wouldn't be complete without something sweet to eat, and boy, these organisers did not disappoint. Despite not really having much of a sweet tooth, I think this was my favourite part of the afternoon. The thoughtful attention to detail that went into each little creation warmed my heart (and nearly wet my eyes) as we tucked into the most delicious cupcakes, biscuits, chocolates and pastries - each uniquely linked to the baby theme.

Aren't these the cutest cookies you've ever seen?

Yummy cupcakes

I know a few kids who'd like this kind of pacifier!

Towards end of the afternoon, I was given a table full of gifts and goodies for Peanut - clothing, toiletries, nappies, a bath, a feeding pillow, blankets and much, much more!

Opening all Peanut's presents

Getting some help from Lexi

So now, with just over a month to go, we're very much on that last stretch, and inbetween exams, work and everything else, we're preparing for our new world of baby blues... No, don't worry, not the postpartem type; the kind that inevitably accompanies the arrival of a much anticipated little boy...