SURPRISE!!!

Over the past week Dave has been very vague about our weekend plans, which is strange for him - especially since if the sun is shinning we on a weekend, then we go boating. However, yesterday afternoon he came home and said I had to be showered, in my blue dress, with make up on, and my hair blown dry by 1pm today because we had plans. Through yesterday evening and this morning he kept asking me if I had any clue what we were doing at 1pm today, if I was curious, and if I had any guesses. Honestly, I was just feeling bad that I had gotten so relaxed during my summer vacation that my husband felt he needed to tell me to shower, dry my hair, and wear make up. I admit I haven't worn make up regularly this summer, but I have showered and dried my hair almost every day.
So this afternoon we hopped in the car and began driving all over Cornelius. There was road construction on a nearby road, so Dave went into major short cut and back road mode all trying to navigate up towards Davidson. In Cornelius we have this cute, old house that has been restored and turned into a Tea House. They serve a variety of teas and yummy finger foods. He dropped me off by the front door and asked me to wait for him while he parked the car. As we walked into the house I was really beginning to wonder what he was up to, this was not his normal style. He quickly told the hostess we were looking for the Priscella Room, which was when she spilled the beans and said, "Oh, for the baby shower? It is right through there." Dave's glowing face fell as he escorted me into the room. There were 6 ladies/moms from my neighborhood (and a 7th on the way) surrounding a beautifully set table. I quickly found out that 2 of my neighbors had orchestrated this gathering asking for Dave's help with the guest list and in getting me to the Tea House at the appropriate time.
We had a lovely tea time, with Strawberry Green Tea and Apricot Tea and many yummy finger sandwiches and desserts. During our time the other moms shared many stories and a lot of advice, while I told about yesterday's doctor's appointment and described our nursery and Dave's overall excitement during this time. Towards the end of our time I was directed towards a table of gifts. As I opened the gifts many of the moms explained why the items in the bag or basket were "essential". I absolutely loved hearing all of the advice and definitely received many items that I wouldn't have picked up on my own, but totally understand what makes them essential and probably would have sent Dave out for in a panic at some point after Miss Itty arrived.
While this afternoon is technically called a "Baby Shower" I did walk away feeling like it was more of an initiation to the "Mommy Club!" Yes, Baby Orr was showered with gifts, but I was showered with knowledge and essentials and got to spend time with 7 women in my neighborhood who will help me out as I navigate this new path into the mommyhood world.