Advice from Nanci Pritchard

Dear Jenna,

It's a challenge to raise our little ones to become happy, healthy, kind, thoughtful and independent adults.  That being said, it is also truly rewarding to know that, as a parent, you've been part of their development.    

There is so much potential wrapped up into every human being.  Lucky you!  You've been given the privilege of being that safe place from which your daughter will grow and be allowed to test the boundaries of that potential.  With your love and support, she will become the best version of who she is going to become.  

Dan and I wish you all the best and know what a wonderful parent you will be. 

Thinking of you--

Nanci

Advice from Rachelle Humble

Jenna,  I am so happy and excited for you and David.  This is a fun time in your lives.  A wise elderly lady once said to me (when she saw me struggling with my children at a store), "You may think this is crazy for me saying this right now, but you will look back on these times and moments with your children fondly. These will truly be your Golden Years."  Raising children truly are the Golden Years of your life ... hard sometimes, but soooo worth it!  Looking forward to seeing you both be parents and creating wonderful memories with your growing family.  Your daughter is going to be adorable ... I just know it!

Love, Rachelle Humble - David's older and most wise sister ;)

Advice From Lisa Wege

I still can't believe that my little sister is having a baby. I sure am excited for you though. Excited too that I will get to be there for her first year! My advice for you is to trust your instincts. I was amazed at how many times I just knew what to do. Knew what the boys needed and knew when there was something wrong and knew when others were over-reacting. It always amazed me. I remember one time with Ethan I knew that he had an ear infection when he was really young. I took him to the doctor. Before the doctor checked him she was assuring me that babies that young didn't get get ear infections. After she finished telling me that she looked in his ears and low and behold there was an infection. I had to laugh because after she saw the infection she offered me a job :).  Mom was and still is a wonderful example of how to be a mom. You will be amazed at how many times you will find yourself doing and saying things that mom would say to us. I laugh every time I do. I also laugh at the funny sentences that come out of my mouth - ones I though I'd never say in a million years. Sentences such as "we don't wash our hands with poop" (that was really truly said to Dillon!) and "yes you may climb on the roof" (the fort roof that is).

You are going to be a great parents!  I love watching you with the boys. It's going to be fun to see you with your own little one. Love you!

Advice from Stephanie Pruitt

Some of my favorite marriage advice (given to me at my bridal shower) is applicable to the parent/child relationship: "In the words of Bill and Ted, be excellent to each other."  I've never seen the movie, but I think that quote pretty well sums up our roles.  :)

If you want to hear my opinions on any other subject (sleep training, discipline, SAHM time management, etc), I can talk your ear off and don't mind if none of my advice is followed.  :)  So let me know when you're in need!