Graduation Day!

Well we are officially trained in the ways of birthing. We completed our childbirth classes at Reston Hospital this weekend. Jon as always kept me laughing through the whole thing. All the students show up the first day with our pillows and blankets and we walk in and Jon says "is this the slumber party?" We got all the info on what to expect (good and bad) during delivery and even got a tour of the hospital labor and delivery rooms. I was really impressed with how large the individual rooms are and how much personal attention you get. The second day we learned about the wonderful epidural and got to try out diapering and swaddling (aka "burrito wrap") on our little doll. There was also the breastfeeding introduction which considering it was Sunday was very appropriate that we learned how to do the "football hold". I definitely feel more educated and better prepared for the big day. Let's just hope little Claire doesn't get too hefty and become a "BBNCO" (big baby no come out!)

Baby Claire's Room

We are finally making progress getting the room ready for Claire's arrival. We painted the bedroom and bath, got new carpet, and today the furniture (at least some of it) was delivered! We put out a few of the things we have picked up or have been given as gifts to start decorating the room. We now have a crib and dresser. The nightstand is a loaner until they can get us one with a fixed leg. Also the beautiful armoire had to be reordered due to a defect. Here are some photos!

Belly Shot Rewind

Okay since I've slacked on this blog thing, here is a fast recap of my protruding midsection.

We're Pregnant!

2 Months

3 Months

4 Months

5 Months

6 Months

First Blog Posting

Okay..since all my friends are doing it, why not do it too?! Introducing the Howard Family "Blog". Jon and I still don't quite understand the word, so excuse us if we still call it a "website". We'll start posting some of the hideous belly shots and all the latest Baby Claire news (once I figure out how to work this thing!)