Mother's Blessing

As I said before at the shower that my friends had for me we also had a Mother's Blessing. For those of you that have never heard of this before let me explain what it is. The Mother's Blessing is an Indian tradition that is suppose to focus on the expectant mother's transition into the new phase of her life. Everyone present at the Mother's Blessing brings a bead of there choice and as they string the bead on a necklace for the new mother they can say a few words of encouragement, advice, a wish, or prayer. It was a very meaningful experience for me and I think for everyone that was there as well! I am so lucky to have so many wonderful people supporting me as I make this transition in my life. I appreciate all the support and advice. It was so great to hear so many people say that they knew that I would make a wonderful mother. Now I just hope that they are right. I was also able to videotape the whole Mother's Blessing - thanks Shandala but I have not had a chance to watch it yet. Here are a few pieces of advice that I remember through all my tears during the actuall blessing.

• Enjoy the last few weeks of pregnancy. You will never again be pregnant with your first child. Even though you may feel miserable - take a few minutes each day to enjoy it and remember it
• Once the baby is here take a few minutes each day to truly enjoy the baby.
• A new baby will change your life - let it - you will never be the same
• Try to accomplish balance - don't forget about the other aspects of your life once the baby comes
• Don't forget to nuture your relationship with your husband once the baby comes. He will need you as well.
• Your little girl will truly be your best friend!

I cried most of the time - but I can say that I was not the only one!

Here's the proof - caught me with a handful of Kleenex

Anneliese added some much needed comic relief when we all needed it. While someone was talking she asked Jennifer, "Why is she crying?" It gave us all a much needed laugh. Then she added her own bead to the necklace, wishing Jillian, "Happy Birthday, Baby Shower."

Here is the finished product plus a belly shot

The necklace turned out great! Thanks, Michelle, for all of your hard work putting it together. Sorry I couldn't figure out how to rotate the picture - I'm still new to this.