Hi everyone! I would just like to say that I cant believe Rashanda is having a baby! I am so excited! We go way back! I have come pictures that prove that but Rashanda might beat me up if I post them on here.
A baby is truly a blessing and from the look of things on this blog, Baby R will have a wonderful life with lots of people who love her!
You and Rodney will have plenty of sitters, so you can get back to shaking a tail feather on the dance floor! Anyways, I love you and can't to see you again! Congrats to you and all the R's in the family, lol!
Destiny

Welcome Back, Welcome Back, Welcome Back!!!

I am looking forward to hearing about your Vacation/Baby Moon.
Baby R is quite a Jet Setter already.
I'm loving it....as long as yall werent staying in Room 112, where the players dwell.
You know these kids are grown these days. That's another story though.
You and Baby R need to call me so that I can update yall on the latest.
Love Ya,
LNS

NYC Baby Shower

I am so happy you had a blast at your shower. Your expression was HILARIOUS. Rashanda walks in and we all scream SURPRISE!! and this girl starts BAWLING! I mean it took her a good 15 minutes to stop crying. Haha and then she has the nerve to say...Whats this all for? Guess she forgot that she was pregnant for a second .

I had so much fun planning the surprise with Kristen, Ashley and Stef! Can't wait to tell you stories about Ashley and Stef and the Martini glasses. HA. Hope this is the first of many beautiful surprises for you. Love you much.

P.S. can I post your video on Youtube pls? j/k

A Surprise Baby Shower for the Baby in the City!

Wow, let me begin by saying no one has ever really gotten away with surprising me. As "B" would say, "You must not know 'bout me, you must not know 'bout me...I can crack a pass code in a minute, got locks on cellphones I gets in it!" LOL! Okay, I am inch-high private eye, head detective, inspector gadget, etc. When I moved up to NYC, my mom, dad, cousins and friends planned a surprise going away party and my co-worker accidentally slipped and said, "I'll see you this weekend!" I'm thinking....Now, why/how would she see me this weekend and that was it...my radar went off. They must have had something planned. But this baby shower, I had NO IDEA about it...none whatsoever.

I was oh so excited that my mother and my sister were coming up to visit and that my mom and I were going to see "Cat on a Hot Tin Roof". I looked the play up on line, checked out the start time & the theatre and told all of y'all that I was going. Hmmmmmmmmm...you got me!

So this NYC - Baby in the City Surprise Baby Shower was planned by Aunties Stef, Kristen, Amal and Ashley. It was all sooooo well put together with designs on each martini glass, ribbons on the chair, rose petals on the tables, brown satin boxes with pink bows, friends from every stage of my life that are in NYC (high school, college, work and play) and my Mother & sister. How did you guys do it? I want/demand answers!

We ate good food, played fun games, (everyone else) drank good drinks, had good cake and enjoyed girlie company on a Sunday afternoon on the Lower East Side at a lounge/restaurant called Libation. These girls did it up and produced a baby shower fit for a "Diva in Training", "Baby in the City", "Princess R", "R Boogie" and lastly for a "Sexy Mommy" these were all sayings put on the bibs during the Create-A-Bib contest). The Create-A-Bib contest was won by Mariana, Sarah and Aliease (please correct me if I'm wrong). There was also the Baby contest in which Danielle was very good at grabbing your pin if you said BABY at any point during the shower. And Danee' who came up to NYC even though she had a midterm exam due on Monday morning won the word scramble with words like colic, strollers, diapers and sleepless. And lastly, the Who Knows Mommy Best was won by Lucia who rushed back to the city on Sunday morning to make it to the baby shower because she was down in DC for a bridal shower/engagement party. Oh, and may I add that Lucia and I only recently reconnected (about a month ago...thanks to Lauren) since high school and she got 7.5 questions right. Y'all were slipping.

The shower was a blast and I was extremely surprised. Soooooo surprised that some of you guys said when I walked in looked like I was gonna fight or confused. Really, I just didn't get it, I even asked, "What is this for?" I mean I can hardly believe that I'm pregnant so a baby shower was the farthest thing from my mind. I even asked my Mom, "What are we gonna do about the tix to the play?" She laughed and said that was all apart of it. Well, ladies again I must thank you...It's been so long since I've hung with all of you guys I tend to forget the support system that is here in NEW YORK. I am very appreciative. This was wonderful and I will never forget it. This was fantastic and I recognize the effort from each of you whether it was time, money, showing up (Crystal, Aisha, Griselda, Jennifer, Sunne), calling the week before to tell me ab your wknd plans and how you wouldn't be in town (which now I get), helping to wipe my tears when I was hysterically crying & reminding me there were pics being taken when I finally figured out what was going on (Chana) or riding up from DC....you are all appreciated.

I can't wait to put all the Ralph Lauren, Calvin Klein, Guess, Uggs, Big Buckle belts, onesies, socks, blankets, bonnets, gift cards, stationary, headrest, photo albums, video baby monitor, books, and everything else to good use. Oh, and the charm bracelet from the committee was put on during the shower...I love all of the noise it makes and the pink jewel on the bootie.

Again I say THANK YOU soooo much! It was absolutely FABULOUS!

Love you all very much!
Mommy R or (as my sash said Mocha Mom to Be)

A Family Affair!!!

Rashanda, lookie here!!! Uncle EJ's b-day party at Jin a couple of months ago. Baby R was in attendance and you looked fabulous!!! It was the first time I ever saw you at a party without heels on but of course you was still gettin' it in! If I remember correctly Baby R was movin' all over the place b/c we were dancing all night. Auntie Mayra J came to the party LATE, as usual and then had the nerve to demand we take a full photo shoot! Auntie Bev and Auntie Monique were there and so were a few of Baby R's future uncles: Brandon, Theo and DeWayne. Cousin LuCresha was in attendance and I know I'm probably leaving like 4-5 other relatives off the list that were there. Wow, so many people to LOVE and BABYSIT Baby R!

Bloggin',
Karen

Chicka-Chicka-POP

First of all Butta...that lil' belly is so adorable!!! I know you told me you had popped and I have seen you several times but I didn't know you had chicka-chicka-popped! OHHHH WEEEE I luv it!

Secondly--prenatal yoga...how cute is that! I love the pics you attached to the blog as well. I am so happy for you and can't wait for you and your new blessing to take the world by storm. I can't believe you are already so far along. It seems like just the other day you called and said, "Karen, OMG, man don't say nothin' but I'm pregnant, Mook, no really I'm PREGGO!!!" LOL, do you remember what I said back to you? LOL!!! You were like the millionth person who had called me that week to tell me they were pregnant. I swear there was something in the water during the month of September. Anyhoo, you are truly glowing and I know that God has already and will continue to touch your life in amazing ways.

I log on to the blog everyday and I am so happy to see it is serving it's purpose. You are so loved by so many people and now you will have one more person who will love you unconditionally, forever and more than you can probably ever imagine. Soon Baby R will be here just lovin' her parents to death! How great is that!

Well, we all know you are a stylish chic so I thought in the true essence of the "R" clan it was time for the blog to be UPGRADED!!! Yes, we all know Baby R and her parents do big things so I gave the blog a more fitting pink, divaesque feel!

Rashanda make sure you rub that tummy and tell that beautiful baby that I love her so much!

xoxoxoxoxo,
Karen

Prenatal Yoga

This morning from 10a - 11a, Momma R attended a prenatal yoga class in downtown Brooklyn on Atlantic Avenue. Woooooosiiiiiiiiiii! It was sooooo refreshing. Yoga is mostly associated with the practice of postures, stretching, breathing and meditation. And what a treat I received this morning.

We practiced kegel exercises, we did the warrior and the tree pose (and boy am I off balance...I used to be able to do these poses with ease) and we stretched out our backs, sides and legs. She also had us participate in an exercise that would purposely hurt for 3 minutes, she explained that a contraction from beginning to end could last for about that long and we should discover who we are during a moment like this. Do we get angry, do we feel victimized, do we give up or do we feel confident. Ultimately, I believe this class is supposed to promote confidence, but let me tell you after that 2 minute mark Momma R almost threw in the towel.

At the very end of class she read us excerpts from the book (while laid on our left sides in the fetal position and relaxed), Bountiful, Beautiful, Blissful: Experience the Natural Power of Pregnancy and Birth with Kundalini Yoga and Meditation by Gurmukh. Some of the ones I found to be the most encouraging are as follows:

- The strength that is found during pregnancy, childbirth and motherhood allows for transformation. Giving you the ability to overcome weaknesses and challenges we never imagined we could.

- Pregnancy allows you (as a woman) to take your power back.

- Leave the familiar and enter the unfamiliar with childbirth and motherhood - all the while...gaining strength.

Needless to say, I'm going back to this class next week and I'm also going to pick up a copy of the aforementioned book. When I left class today I couldn't help but to think/dream about how different the world will be when Baby R arrives, how different my world will be and how ready I am for DIFFERENT...a change.

Hugs,

Momma and Baby R

Happy V Day

Wishing all of the ladies (especially my favorite two!), a happy Valentines Day. This blog has blown up and I hope all of u are around to babysit in about 6 months! please keep the love coming and I expect to see you all at the Baby shower this spring(Going to be a Great look).. I think Baby R is ready now because her momma is getting big.. Aint she a pretty PREGGo woman?! BTW - this pic is from AC back in 06' We thought we were doing it!!

24 weeks or 6 months! WOW...

If you have it [Love], you don't need to have anything else, and if you don't have it, it doesn't matter much what else you have.
~Sir James M. Barrie

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY! From Mommy and Baby R

What I Miss?!?!

Deg, what I miss? Tracie being the cake monster...Dottie tryna throw some bows...Mama R tearing the dance floor up in her Easy Spirits...
Aww man, sounded like a party I needed to be at. Sucks I couldn't make it - next time - my whole day will be reserved for yall.

Looks and sounds like you had fun Mama R. You look exquisite...like you should be in a Neutrogena commercial. Keep doing what you doing.

Hope to see you soon!!
Oh yeah, is it the smock dress or the angle of the pic!?!?! Looks like Baby R thew some "D's" on ya!!! HAHA

XOXO
Janell

The bigger, the better!

I also forgot to chime in that, I too think that you're looking wonderful & those tata's are growing by the second. I couldn't get enough of them Saturday . . .LOL! Oh, the laughs!!

Baby R . . .R u ready for the world we have waiting for U?

LMAO! Y'all are so funny!! I love u girls to pieces :-). I've been reading the blog, but I felt truly inclined to post today. LMAO! Rashanda, this weekend again brought back a lot of memories. I love you so much. I can't wait for Baby R. Be sure to tell her (every night) that Aunt Tracie & cousin Drew are ready for her.

Who's pregnant Rashanda or Naomi?!?!?!?

Yall just didnt give me enough time to suck my gut in.... Digressing-Ay, why was Tracie eating the cake that Curt's Girl purchased for him, as if it were her own, and she took pics posing with it? Nevertheless, Antoine said that they are glad we showed up-otherwise they would have been bored. No one likes to admit that we are the life of the party, withchild and all...

AWWWWW

U LOOK SO CUTE BEING PREGGERS!!! lol and ur right..u do get a full CHECK outta me for that gray smock and boots!! muy caliente mami!!! lol oh yeh and ur boobies r gettin bigger!!!!! lol overall..u look FABOLOUS!!! cant wait to see my lil cuzin!!! and my big cuzin too!! lol love u!

23 weeks and 4 days

Let's go out for Auntie Tracie's birthday! Okay what can I put on that's cute yet comfortable?

Gray smock dress from American Apparel (check), Black boots from Aerosoles (check)...comfortable (check).

I haven't been out and dressed up in a long time and Saturday night out with the girls was just what I needed. I had a blast, the food was good, the ginger ale was refreshing and the music was bumping (lol...not bumping). So now for some highlights of the night, because it just wouldn't be right without some CSI drama.

- Now I'm good and preggo and some stank waitress wouldn't let us sit down, because "this table is reserved for bottle service, ONLY". But, noone ever came to sit down at the table because noone got bottle service at the restaurant/supper club turned CLUB....hmmmmmm.

- When Tracie knocked over not one drink but two drinks onto Curtis and his girlfriend. And the

question was posed, "She might be mad, but can she beat me though?" (Awwwww....Alfred Street, New Projex) LOL!

-Lastly, the ride home...pregnant women are instigators. (inside joke...you gotta ask Auntie Lijah about that one).

Had a great time with you ladies! Enjoy the pictures. Peace, Piece, Peas....

Celebrating You!

Rashanda,

My spirit was overjoyed the day that you told me that you were expecting. You have been a true friend and confidant ever since I met you our first year of college. You are going to be the mother that all mothers will aspire to be like. I know that Baby R will feel loved and grow into a smart, independent, humble, and trustworthy women with you raising her because those are all of the qualities that you model for all of us everyday. Baby R is a truly lucky girl to have you just as much as you are blessed to have her. Congratulations! I can't wait to spoil her rotten.

Love You Both,

Auntie Carin

So Sorry I missed Baby R and Mama this weekend

But, when Baby R comes... she'll be getting gifts like this from Aunt Bevy...

Yes, that's pink Polo

I am all late...

Congratulations! I am just logging on and joining the blogging action. I am so happy for you Rashanda and Rodney! I can not wait to meet her:)

OHHHHH NOOOOO!

Auntie Naomi,

Why did you do me like that??? I am going to be way cuter than that baby!!!

But I forgive you! LITU! (Laughing in the Uterus)

Oh yeah, me and mommy will be in DC this weekend, I hope we can see some of you bloggers. Mommy reads me the messages you post everyday. I feel really special and loved already!!!

BABY R

BABY R

Where's Ashton? I think I got punked...

Yall dont think this baby looks like Rashanda and Rodney?

I had to do it. Please forgive me!!!

I love yall...

On the Blog Again...

Haven't blogged since last week...but I have read each and every one of your posts. I really don't know what to say. I have such wonderful friends and family and the love is just over abundant. I am lucky, grateful and blessed to have each of you in my life. Whether I spoke to you yesterday, texted you on Friday, chatted over email this morning, haven't seen you since 2001, told you that you were not my friend over something petty or our friendship was in shambles for the majority of 2007...you have embraced me in this joyous time and I appreciate it. Might I also add that this darn thing was supposed to make me smile and laugh everyday, but instead every time I read one of your posts and you've included an inspiring quote or bible verse, have posted a funny picture, or reminded me of some crazy time we had...I can't help but cry (maybe it's because I'm all pregnant and emotional). Rodney knows all about this. And you thought I was a cry baby before...LOL!

Well, I have another doctor's appointment tonight and we'll see what good news (positive thinking) Dr. Blanchette has to say about the both of us and I will definitely keep you guys POSTed.

Thanks for the love, support and encouragement and I'll blog with you all soon.

Hugs,
Rashanda

Congrats Rashanda and Rodney!!!

I just wanted to say that I am extremely happy for the both of you. This baby girl is absolutely an amazing gift from God!!! If there is anything I can do, except babysit, please don't hesitate to let me know. : ) Rodney, try not to turn to mush when she is born. But if you do, or I should say when you do, I'll understand and you're still my man. Nothing but the best life has to offer to the three of you!!!

Best wishes,
Ju

Older sis (FMI days)

The best love ever is the love of a child. Congrats to the parents to be and welcome Baby R, the world is yours!!! Rashanda you look great!! I know that you will be a wonderful mommy. God Bless you three.


-Big Sis Silvia

Where do I start?

I know, I know…I took it back. For those of you who are wondering who I am, Rashanda and I were close friends in High School. She was “Butta” and I was “Big Rib”.

Don’t ask why they gave me that name?!@

Thirteen years have passed and I have memories of sleepovers at the Lee, partyin’ hard at the Icebox, making our way to the Ritz, plottin’ on our boyfriends, talking about the cheerleaders on the other team, eating conch fritters in the Bahamas, getting tatted up in Can Cun, and of course Rashanda crying on my shoulder:-) (You know I didn't mind).

Rashanda, I am not going to repeat what everyone has already said but I do want to say Congratulations and I wish you a BLESSED life with this child and many more, well at least one more to come :-). I know that this came as a shock for you, but who knew a child that is not even here could add so much joy to your life. I know you are filled with lots of happy thoughts and like your mom said hold on to all the memories that Baby R has in store for you and Rodney. What can I say…ready or not, motherhood is about to change your life for the BEST! I look at my son and I still can’t believe God trusted me enough to take care of this child. But I am thankful that he did because he has added a new meaning to the words BLESSED and THANKFUL! Baby R is lucky to have you as a mom and Rodney I haven't met you but if Rashanda likes you I'm sure you'll make a great father. I want you to know that although things have not been like they once were I am here for you and I am very proud of you!

What a gift!

"Children are a gift from the Lord; they are a reward from him" Ps.127:3

What a gift Baby R is! Rashanda, you are such an intelligent and strong woman, with a loving heart and beautiful personality...Baby R is also receiving a gift to have you as her mom! I am so excited for you Rashanda and can't wait to meet Baby R! She has so many people who are praying for her and love her already...just wait til she arrives! ;-)

Congrats Rodney & Rashanda! We are so excited for you!

--Kimani and Cortnee

Here's a Pic from the last time I saw you!

Congrats girl!

Hey Rashanda!

Girl I am so happy for you and Rodney! I say ditto to a lot of things others have said on this blog. I've known you since the 7th grade and I am amazed at how time flies! Long gone are the days of cheering for the Mt. Vernon tigers, going to see Rare Essence at the Ritz, or even hanging out at the BBS at UVA. Now you are about to enter a new chapter in your life....motherhood.

It is such an honor and priviledge to have the responsibility to nurture, provide, protect, love, and raise another human being. The Bible tells us that we should train up a child in the way he should go. I am confident that you and Rodney will do just that!

I cannot wait to meet this little diva! I'm sure she is going to have her mother's spontaneous and outgoing personality.

Congrats Rodney & Rashanda!

P.S. I'm envious of the fact that you have weighed 112 pounds all this time! Girl I haven't weighed that much since middle school. I'm sure you are going to go back to your normal size once baby "R" comes.

Much love,
Nanah

Congratulations Rodney and Rashanda!

I am truly happy for both of you. You two are going to be wonderful, loving parents and Baby R will be a very blessed little girl. I wish you two the best and I look forward to meeting Baby R! Hugs and kisses, Cameron :-)

Yay! DC Loves You and Baby R :o)

Rashanda!! Oh the blessings of babies! 2008 is the year of New Beginnings and this is def. a new one for you! It seems like everyone is having girls this year...my sister, my best friend, and you too! I am very excited for you, Baby R, and Daddy R! Continue to pray every day. Don't worry about being a good parent b/c you will be! I don't know anything about having kids, but I know that with your personality, drive, and heart - you will be a great mom! I know we're waiting until the baby is born for the final name, but don't think I forgot about those names we brainstormed over dinner! haha Make sure to put ours at the top of the list! haha I'm putting up some pics from the dinner in DC when Cort came to visit. You were already pregnant and looking good girl! You're such a diva! DC LOVES YOU!

God's Blessing

Life leads us down some of the same roads and just like a scenic route it allows us to reflect on our past with the anticipation of our future. As I reflect on the joys as My Baby R allowed me to experience I am overwhelmed with watching the progress of Baby R’s development. Each day brings about a new experience in your pregnancy and I am so blessed that you and Rodney have allowed family and friends to be apart of Baby R’s development. Twenty Six years ago, my Baby R came into my life and I have enjoyed every minute of being your mother and friend. As I came across these precious memories, I found it fitting to share them at this moment. Treasure each day of your pregnancy with Baby R as it cannot be repeated just as my life with you cannot be repeated. Each moment is a memoir and with God’s blessing your memoir will someday be Baby R’s memoir.

Lil Stomach

Hey Girl,

I am so happy for you.... You are going to make a great mother. I see you and you little stomach, once it was just full of gas...now it has life. How amazing is that. Congratulations on the little girl. God Bless you and Rodney. And Rodney I'll be throwing up a few more extra prayers for you boss....I've heard how women can get from time to time when they are pregnant.

Take Care,

Cousin T

The Diva is on Her Way

The new york support base on the check in I knew it was a girl from the jump and i cant wait to see her wrap Rodney around her finger. R and R this is truly gods blessing and im very happy to be involved T Dix

What a Blessing!

Awwww Man, No name until the birth. I can't wait that long. I am trying to win the games at the shower. LOL I am so happy for you both. I wish you nothing but the best, but you will have the best because you are blessed by the best. I pray that God continues to keep you and your new family. I can't wait to see this beautiful baby. Congratulations and I will be in touch. Tell me, is it hard being pregnant and cute at the same time? I want to be just like you when I grow up. I am so proud of you and I know you two will be exceptional parents. Keep God first you will be just fine.

My Baby "R" Having A Baby "R"

Baby R has arrived -- Oops that was my Baby R just twenty six years ago. It's hard to believe that my baby is having a baby!

A baby is something you carry inside you for nine months, in your arms for three years and in your heart till the day you die.-- Mary Mason

Rashanda and Rodney, know that we are all here to help and support you during this wonderful time. I love you both very dearly and cannot wait to enjoy the little blessing God has bestowed upon our family!

Certified Star...

Congratulations!!! Your certified star will be here before you know it. Baby R will come out dancing and singing R-A-R-EE-SS-EN-CE just like her momma. As I think back of all the good times we have shared, Baby R is going to be a lucky little angel to have such a fun loving mother. The moment you hold Baby R in your arms for the first time, you will wonder how such a tiny bundle of joy could create so many emotions within you. And you wonder if it’s possible that you've actually brought such a tiny, beautiful being into this world. And hold on tight in your following days of adventure with your baby! Simply put, your life will never be the same again and you can be assured that it'll never be a boring one.

Having a baby is the most delightful moments of your life. A child is the biggest blessing of God. I have no doubt that you and Rod will make magnificent parents.

Luv ya so much!!!

Too CUTE!

Hey Baby R FAM (notice the M not N) Club! Ms. Butta- prego & all, still nothing but spoonfuls of cuteness & style! Keep glowing love, it's super healthy for your soul! Have a fantabulous day and don't forget how much you're loved ACROSS THE MILES & THROUGH TIME! I hope you're wearing comfy, cute, supportive, NON-SLIP shoes! Slippage is not allowed, dangerous for the much anticipated VIP you're keeping safe for humanity to meet in 5 months! *Boots

Gaining Weight and Dresses

Okay...so you all know I've never weighed more than 112 (yeah, that's right like Room 112, where the playas dwell). I was at my heaviest back in '98-'99...hmmmm. So gaining weight has been funny to me because, it just NEVER happens. And since September I have gained 20 lbs. Well Daddy R bought me a few dresses a couple weeks ago from American Apparel, since none of my suits button up and my pants won't come up past my knees. Thanks Daddy R!

So I won't tell you how many times I've worn these dresses in the last couple of weeks, but I will say that they are sooooo versatile, comfy and extra roomy. Work, Dinner, Church - I've worn them to all of these places.

More updates to come...

PS - Do you guys see how light I am (compared to the picture with Prima & I and Danee' & I, below)? I think a BABY MOON (a trip before Baby R arrives) is MUCH needed. Any ideas?

Makes My Day!

It's hard being away from home and pregnant. I wish during this process I could just move all of you to the Big Apple. But, as Janelle said I am blessed to have such a wonderful BFF, one who knew what it took to make my day...everyday. Thanks Karen...Love ya girl! But, I can't leave out all of you who have contributed to this Blog and those of you who can't quite figure the blog out but call and check on us. We truly appreciate all of the love and support and hope this doesn't end when Baby R actually arrives. wink, wink...anyone down to babysit? I'm totally kidding I won't be letting this little DIVA go too far without me.


Last night as I walked up to my apartment, this was waiting for me...

Thank you Auntie Jules!


The card reads: Congrats on the baby girl!! I am so excited for you. I can't wait to dress her and play with her. Auntie Jules is here for you!! Love You, Jules


I love my friends and family! And again I must say this blog, your prayers, your words of encouragement, the balloons and flowers MAKE MY DAY!

Thank you!



Much Love,
Rashanda

Love & Blessings from DC

Rashanda you look ABSOLUTELY adorable! I am so excited for you and Rodney. Baby R is a lucky gurl cause she is about to be spoiled like crazzzzzzzy....you KNOW she gonna be a shopper like her mommy and daddy and ya know she can always come along with me :-) Oh and lets not forget that I can help her represent her SE roots (right Rodney!) Keep us posted, this blog thing is great. All 3 of you are missed in DC! May God continue to bless your pregnancy.

IM SOOO EXCITED!!

YAYYYY!! im sooo excited to hear that you and Rodney are bringing another beautiful girl into the world! Children are a blessing and I know that you both will be great parents. I love you soooo much! Keep me updated boo! Welcome Baby R..Get ready to be a STAR!! (it runs in the family) lol

***Patrice***

Plentiful Blessings!!

First I'd like to say KUDOS to Ms. Karen for being a remarkable friend. Creating this blog was a cute and loving idea. Everyone wishes for a bff like you!

Best wishes to Rashanda and Rodney. This baby is truly blessed to have parents such as yourselves. May these happy days have no comparison to what's to come...even better! I'll be sure to check back periodically to check out your bump, I'll add you to my bump surveillance along with Jessica Alba!

BTW, I see yall holding out on Baby R's name. Just promise me you won't create a Rodney and Rashanda name combo such as Rashiney or Rodshanda. Remember her name will be a resume header one day!! HAHAHA

Seeing all these pics on here makes me wish I had a throwback of our Horny Hornet days!! SSVA!!

XOXO
Janell

Auntie Nae is very Excited...

OMGosh....when Rashanda called to tell me it was a girl I was like...DUH!! Both my mother and I have been referring to the baby as a girl for weeks now.

Congratulations to you both; you are very blessed!! I agree with Lauren, I can't wait to see the beautiful, intelligent AND active Baby R. I love you both and I know you will be wonderful parents!

What a blessing...Butterfly is having a baby girl!!!

Wow......we've known each other since the 7th grade..wow when was that back in 1993 about wow 14 years ago. You have always been someone that I could see have a kind and loving heart. I am so happy for the both of you that through the love that you have for each other you've created a blessing from God....Wow my little butterfly is going to be a mommy. I know we've grown apart a little as we've grown, become young women, went off to college and our career paths have gone in different ways with you in NY and me in NC, then MI then back home here in VA. But we still text each other on major holidays and see each other a various events VA's first ladies night...You are truly a friend and I wish nothing but the best for you, Daddy R and Baby R. I look forward to see the updated pictures thoughout your pregnancy. Additionally I hope that in the next couple of months you able to have a baby shower here back at home and that I get an invite when that time arrives. Again I am so happy for you. Be blessed butterfly. Oh yeah I see your little one is due in June maybe she'll be born on my b-day June 18 lol. Love you always no matter where you're at in the world.

TTYL...Kisses!!!

Yay Rashanda and Rodney!

This is going to be one GOOD LOOKING BABY!!! And SMART too! I am so psyched for you two. xoxo Love, Lauren

Ur Favorite Homie From the SSVA

Greetings and Salutations Rashanda, Rodney and Lil R,

I would first like to say Congratulations to the both of yall. Secondly, I would like to say Dang, another Rashanda is entering the world are we really ready for what's about to take place? Nah, just joking weather its a boy or girl its a blessing to give life, so again congrats and Rodney well just keep a stocked bar when they both get on your nerves.

Peace and Blessings,
EJ

New York Support System

The new york support system on the check in. I knew it was a girl from the jump and I cant wait to see her wrap Rodney around her finger. I'm so happy for both of you, it is truly gods blessing and I'm happy to be a part of it.

I am overfilled with joy!!

FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO DONT ME, I JUST LIKE RASHANDA AND THE REST OF THE GRIMES FAMILY, AM A CRY BABY. I WAS JUST INVITED TO JOIN THE BLOG AND I THINK THIS IS THE COOLEST THING EVER. I HAVENT SEEN RASHANDA (BEFORE THIS PAST WEEKEND) SINCE THE SUMMER. AND LORD KNOWS HOW LONG IT WAS BEFORE THAT. THE FIRST THING I DID WHEN I SAW HER WAS RUN UP AND GIVE HER A HUG AND RUB THAT BELLY. I THINK YOU WILL BE THE BEST MOMMY THAT LITTLE PRINCESS CAN ASK FOR. AND ANYTHING I CAN DO (WITH ALL MY EXPERIENCE AND ALL) PLEASE DONT HESITATE TO CALL DAY, NIGHT AND ALL THE IN BETWEENS. I WISH I COULD BE THERE WITH YOU TO GIVE YOU ALL THE PHYSICAL HELP YOU NEED, BUT SINCE I CANT I WANT TO GIVE YOU ALL THE EMOTIONAL AND MENTAL SUPPORT. IT'S ALMOST AS GOOD AS THE PHYSICAL. LOVE YOU GUYS. GOOD LUCK. OH YEAH, IS IT TOO EARLY FOR ME TO START BUYING?

PS, NO FEAR, YOU WONT HAVE A BALDY LIKE YOU WERE, THE MYTHS ARE TRUE.

Mellie Mel Checking IN!!! It's a GIRL

I can't tell you how excited I am for you and Rodney! Congratulations to you both! A baby is a true blessing and I know you two will be wonderful parents!

I know I've been MIA for a minute but IM BACK!!!! and I am about to be your personal paparazzi and start posting pics of you on a daily basis since everyone is begging to see pics of your HUGE BELLY...haha (kidding).

Anyhoo..I cannot wait for the lil diva to arrive. She's gonna be spoiled rotten by everyone...including the BRAS crew (Beverly, Rash, Amal and Selena) I know im retarded for trying to come up with a name for us. LOVE YOU and see you tonite! Oh..and post that pic of you asap or I will!

Until next time....

Aunt Amal.

Congratulations!

I'd like to add my congratulations along with everyone else! A baby is truly a blessing and gift from God. Continued blessings to you, Rodney and the little one. Peace and blessings...

Denise Wilcher

New Picture!

I've been waiting for Auntie Amal to send this over all morning and finally she did! Here I am at 20 weeks and 5 days. I have not been having much morning sickness, but the indigestion is out of control - that could be from that tabasco flavored slim jim I had...hmmmmmm?!?! Ma B (Rodney's mom) and Granny Boo (my Gramma) say this is caused from the baby having lots and lots of hair. I sure hope this baby doesn't come out bald headed like I did. Oh gosh...the worries - LOL! Thanks for all of your posts and continue to come by and check in for updates.

With Love,

Rashanda

What a blessing!!

Rashanda,
It's a girl and I'm so excited for you and Rodney. I can remember the day my Aunt Angie and Uncle Skip had their 1st baby girl and that baby was you! I know the both of you will be excellent parents and Baby R is blessed to have you guys. Baby Girl R, welcome to the family.

Love, Tamara

Keep The Love Coming

A girl!!!!!! Dont be mad when she is wearing timbs and a Redskins jersey! No matter the sex, a child is a blessing.. She will be the first female member of the Legends Crew.....

Im so excited!!!!

YAY!!!!!!! I love that you're having a girl. Call me biased, but I love little girls! And a little Rashanda---the world aint ready lol :) As I mentioned before, I am wishing you a joyous and blessed pregnancy, and even more blessed years to come with Baby R. You are a great person, so I think its only natural you will be a great mommy!!!! Keep us updated--you know I am loving the blog. Its been harder for my nosey butt to keep up with you in NY! lol

Again Congrats R &R and be sure to bring that baby "home" so we can show it some 'urea love :)

Congratulations Rodney and Rashanda!

The dreaming, The longing, The anticipation, The belonging, The plans, The preparations, The excitement, The wonder of creations, The approaching time, The gatherings, The closeness, The names of beings, The emotions, The hearts lift, The new beginning…The New Mother & Father’s Gift.

Congratulations Rodney and Rashanda.
I am so very confident that you guys will be the best parents, role models and heroes a baby can have, want and need. As the saying goes “to whom much is given, much will be required”.

Love Ya,
Lijah “Naomi Girl” Smith

Poppa Kapp Sounds Off......

Hey Sweetie,

I am so excited as well to know that I will soon be a _____father (can't bring myself to saying it yet) although Danee' is quick to remind me! This is something you should expect when you have daughters but you are never ready for the announcement when it comes. When you told me I had to be strong (you know Daddy style) and not let you see me cry, but inside I was bursting with joy and shouting Hallelujah!!! What did I say, "baby don't tell your Daddy you've been having sex?" and put my fingers in my ears all the while driving around the circle at Union Station. That was funny to me. LOL At Myself. But really, my excitement is that God is blessing us as a family by expanding us by one and in doing so will be enlarging our territory. Like Karen said, it takes a village. Yesterday when you called and told me it was a girl (here we go again, now I'm outnumbered 4-1) I shed a tear again! For those that don't know, we are a crying family and that was a time to sniff-sniff for Baby R! Rodney don't want to leave you out b/c I know how it can be. I Love You Man. I will be back up in NY soon, let's plan to do brunch and keep the appointment no matter what. Peace and Blessings.

Miss_Es...Boots for the lil' Baby!

Many of you all do not know me, however Mook & Butta know that I am an emotional one! I have just taken the moment to read through the posted blogs & of course the one that caught my attention was the very last one...tears & all. There will be a Baby Butta! Honey, congrats and nothing but blessings unto you & your princess...because we know she will be just that, a "STAR"!!!

Thank you for including me in the blogging experience. I have utmost faith that you will shower your child with all of the positive energy that fills you, but most importantly the passion & love that pours from your being! Yet again, I look up to you.

I sent this to KJ a while ago, but will post here too. Though I'm far from being a Mommy, I'm a very much involved Aunty & Godmommy. I was blessed & so very fortunate to be involved in the pregnancy experience of my sister and cousin. More so, the greatest gift that anyone can have is witnessing the birth of a child. I was present for both births. The most amazing and surreal moment was when I held my Goddaughter minutes after her Daddy helped clean her up. It was at that moment that I learned how pure and unconditional love felt... I've witnessed and felt the joys & hardships of raising/loving a child. When you're open to learning & allow yourself to join forces with a loving TEAM, it's very do-able. You've always had a village Ms. Butta', now your little will be blessed with her own.

Excerpt taken from author Iyanla Vanzant's book Faith in the Valley

"Loving a child and raising a child are two completely different things. Loving a child means learning how to nurture, teach, and guide. It means being free to let your child know who you are, how you feel, and what you need. Love requires truth, not just sheltering, protecting, or providing. Love means some fun, some pain, some joy, some tears, and absolutely no guarantees.

Raising a child means learning tolerance, patience, acceptance, and forgiveness. It means learning how to teach responsibility, accountability, and dependability. Raising a child requires discipline and obedience, practicing it and teaching it. It means keeping your eyes and your mind open to all things, under all circumstances. Raising a child requires trust, of yourself to do the right thing and of your child to get it…eventually.

Many of us love our children so much we forget to raise them. We forget they can see and think and feel. We forget they can fall and get up, with or without our help. We love them because we are afraid to lose them. Yet, we lose them because we forget to raise them.

-I must love my child enough to raise an adult."