Week 33 - Meet the Grandparents

I hope you have enjoyed the past 33 weeks of blogs, we only have about 5 weeks left. I have enjoyed giving you weekly updates on Anna's progress, how Laura is doing, a blog from Anna's perspective, and one where Laura typed a message. This week is a special one too. This week we get to hear from Anna's grandparents. I asked them to write a piece for the blog and just talk about Anna and how they are feeling. When Laura and I read them last night, we were both really proud. So, here is the weekly info about Anna and then the grandparents notes will be below that. Also, I have posted a picture of Laura and I with the grandparents and also a new updated pregnancy photo of Laura. I really hope you enjoy!!!




Anna weighs about 4.4 pounds at this point. Her crown-to-rump length is approximately 12 inches and the total length is around 19.4 inches.

With the exception of crying, she is capable of doing everything that a newborn baby will do. She is restricted now inside of the uterus, but still can kick and move. She sleeps a lot of the time, just as newborn babies do. Her eyes move in the manner of REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep and researchers believe that babies can dream vividly while in the womb. When Anna is awake, she is listening, feeling and learning. There are billions of neurons in the brain that make trillions of connections. Anna should be settled into the birth position by now. If she were to be born now, her lungs would probably be strong enough to function properly, but she may still need extra care from specially trained doctors and nurses.

Anna’s eyes open during alert times and close during sleep. The eye color is usually blue, regardless of the permanent color as pigmentation is not fully developed. The final formation of eye pigmentation requires exposure to light and usually happens a few weeks after birth.

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We were so much more than thrilled when Derrick and Laura told us that they were expecting! Then, when we found out that it's a girl "Nanny" had to stay in the hospital for a few days, although we're sure that was just a coincidence, lol. Anna Marie...even though we haven't met her yet, we couldn't love her anymore! She is already such a blessed little girl! Blessed to have a mommy and daddy that adore her and will set a wonderful example or her. Yes, there will be sleepless nights, and even some worrying here and there but we know you both will do an awesome raising little Anna. Teaching her right from wrong, caring for others and so many other things. But most of all, dedicating her to the Lord, raising her in church and teaching her to love the Lord with all her heart. We can't wait to see her, hold her and watch her grow! We will always love her, be here for her along with "mema" and "papa" and so much more family. We love you Derrick and Laura! And we're waiting for you Anna Marie Smith...our precious little granddaughter! We love you SO much!!!!
- Pa & Nanny Smith
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We could not possibly be more excited about the arrival into our world of little Anna Marie. Anna will a blessed child from day one. Her Mommy & Daddy are so anxious for her to be delivered into their loving arms. I know they will love, cherish and provide for her in the greatest and most excellent ways possible. Also, she will be blessed by being surrounded by an extended family and group of friends that will love her and be there for her all the days of her life. We are ready to see her and hold her and begin the wonderful job of spoiling her just like grandparents love to do - can’t wait!

- Papa & Mema Dyer