One of the key reasons why Michael and I are so happy living in São Paulo is because we have such an amazing group of wonderful friends.  In fact, it’s almost weird how everyone we meet down here is just so great — we feel so blessed.  Since our move, we have never felt that more than we did on Saturday night when our friends came together to host one of the most beautiful, special and memorable nights of our lives for us.

Our fabulous hosts were Brad & Brett Coppens who were so generous to have the party in their gorgeous apartment (seriously – I am excited for you to catch a glimpse of it in these pictures because it is so dreamy) and Suzanna & Jeff Jones who were responsible for THE cupcakes, which turned out to be the hit of the night because they were not only beautiful, but also oh-so delicious.

Party Hosts! Brett, Brad, Michael, me, Suzanna & Jeff

One of the first things I saw when we walked into the party was the amazing display of cupcakes which spelled out, “Is it a boy or girl?”  Suzanna had done an incredible job baking and she and Brett had set them up so beautifully – it really was stunning.

The beautiful line of cupcakes spelled out “Is it a boy or girl?”

At the party there was tasty food, beautiful flowers, gorgeous views and fabulous company for everyone to enjoy.

Once everyone was all settled in, Brett & Brad had a little “interactive quiz” for me and the audience to test out all of the gender-prediction myths.  And here were the results: Next, the only thing left to do was find out the real answer about Baby Harper.  Earlier in the week, Michael and I had gone for an ultrasound where we asked the doctor not to tell us the gender, but instead to write it on a piece of paper which we immediately put into 2 envelopes — double sealed — so that neither Michael nor I could look.  Then, we trusted our secret with Suzanna and she baked the results into the cupcakes.  When the time came, we cut into the “?” cupcake.

We were so thrilled with the results but honestly Michael and I have agreed, I think we would have had the exact same reactions no matter what it had been.  It was just such a fun and special moment, full of emotions and adrenaline, and I cannot imagine it having been any more perfect.  

It was so special to have Michael’s parents there, but we Facetimed my parents and grandparents in so they were part of the action too.  You can actually see my mom’s face on my phone in the picture where we are kissing – ha!

HUGE thank you to Brett, Brad, Suzanna, Jeff and everyone who came to be there and surround us with such love and support.  It was a perfect night that we’ll never forget.  And WOOHOOO!  We’re having a BOY!!

PS: If you haven’t seen the videos yet, check them out — there are 2 videos linked on this post.

How far along: 18 weeks & 1 day
Baby updates: Baby Harper is around 5 1/2 inches long – about the size of a bell pepper!  I’m pretty sure I’m starting to feel some movement but it’s hard to really know what’s what.  Oh, and we found out that Baby Harper is a little BOY!!
Mamma updates: Feeling pretty good these days — I’d say almost back to normal!
Things I miss: Still missing sushi and was tortured when we went out this weekend to one of the best sushi places in São Paulo.  That being said, it’s such a small thing compared to the blessing of getting to be pregnant.
Cravings: Mostly just things that I have always loved — fried rice stands out this week.
Weight: +5.5 was the highest number yet!  And definitely seeing my body change with it.
Best moments of the week: The past week was incredible.
We started the week on Monday with a great ultrasound.  It was our third one but it amazes me every time.  I think I basically hold my breath and squeeze Michael’s hand the entire time.
Later that day, Michael and I bought a car!  We lasted our first year in Brazil without a car, but it was definitely time to get one.  We have an itty-bitty parking space in our building which seriously limited our car options, but we settled on a Honda Fit and are very excited about it.  Plus, I drove it for the first time on Sunday and am happy to say I survived this crazy city!
Then, Thursday of last week, Michael’s mom, dad and family friend, Cindy McCain, came down for a weekend visit.  We had lots of fun showing them around town and going to all of our favorite spots.

Sushi dinner at Naga

Finally, the week culminated in one of the most unforgettable nights for us Saturday night at Baby Harper’s gender reveal party!  I will do a full post on it next, but our friends, Brad & Brett Coppens + Suzanna & Jeff Jones hosted an incredible party.  It was such a blast and Michael & I feel so beyond blessed and thankful to be surrounded by such amazing friends, love and support here.  And it was pretty fun to find out we’re having a little baby BOY!  🙂  We truly could not be happier.