Growing and Registering: 20 Weeks!

So, I officially look pregnant!! :-) Although we already had an elective "gender verification" ultrasound, today is our official 20 week appointment. It is our last scheduled ultrasound and I am looking forward to Quinn being there and actually getting to look this time! ;-)

Yesterday Quinn and I took our first trip to Babies 'R Us to register... It was honestly one of the worst shopping experiences of my life! I am not sure if any of you can relate, but just to "paint the picture": We got there and I was excited to be there. And why wouldn't I be? It was the first opportunity we would have together to look at all of the options available first-hand and see what items we want for our first baby. I have done my fair share of research on the "big" items, like car seats, pack and plays, cribs, strollers... but regarding many of the other options, it was "Greek to me"! Now, I am fairly certain that I am not the LAST first-time mother on this earth, but that is exactly how I felt. The staff was rude and completely unhelpful in offering tips and assistance in an experience that was 100% foreign and new to us. We started our search near the breast pumps and I found myself overwhelmed... 20 different kinds of breast pumps?! We went through the list, line by line, and tried to select everything that was recommended. However, do we really "need" as much as they're suggesting?!

I walked into the store happy and excited and left feeling inadequate and overwhelmed. I had a minor emotional "breakdown" (thank God for my wonderful, patient husband!) and called my friend Kelly who had her first baby in July. And thank God for Kelly too! ;-) She helped me to put things into perspective and take a deep breath. She agreed that it was overwhelming and also agreed to help me with the process, creating a list of must-haves, nice to haves, maybes, etc. that we will be discussing later today! ;-) I know the "necessities" are a little different for every couple and their baby, but when it comes to things like breast pumps, and how many sets of sheets, wash clothes and burp rags people really use, I feel that it really helps to talk to those around you who have experienced it.

All is well, not to worry! We are as happy as can be - and with the love and support from those around us it makes us realize how blessed we are to have each and every one of you in our lives. THANK YOU!