Nita: Baby Bump
We liked Nita and Drew the instant we met them about three years ago. Nita is a homeschooling mom who first invited me to the homeschool mom’s support group at our church, and is truly one of the sweetest people I have ever met. I love the way her smile goes right up into her eyes. Drew is hilariously witty, rather outspoken, and loves his family deeply. Genuine is the first word that comes to mind for them both.

Nita and Drew decided to let the gender of this baby be a surprise to everyone (themselves included). We did this session yesterday — and Nita is scheduled for a C-section tomorrow morning! I have plans to get over to their house asap after they get home so I can get my hands on that sweet baby! And, of course, so I can get photos outside of Mama’s belly, too! I l-o-v-e babies! We are SO excited!!!!

Maternity portraits are something Nita has never done when she was expecting her other children, so this was a little out of her comfort zone, but she and the family really wanted to celebrate their joy about the baby’s impending arrival. If this is a girl, she is going to have some serious protection in the form of all these big brothers! (But I bet she’ll be able to throw a football with the best of them!)

Almost two years ago, just before his third birthday, Nita and Drew’s youngest son Brock died unexpectedly. Watching them walk through this journey of grief, trusting Christ to hold them up, has been awe-inspiring. Their faith has strengthened mine. They’ve been so open, and were ministering to others going through similar circumstances within months of Brock’s death. Brock — with his blond curls and contagious grin — is greatly missed, and will be until they all meet again in heaven. But this baby is a gift, and though they still feel Brock’s loss greatly, they are rejoicing about this little one. 
You can get a glimpse into what a wonderful family this is on Nita’s blog. She has blessed so many people through what she shares there.
It’s title was inspired by Brock’s short but enthusiastically-lived life: Live Hard, Love Hard, Run to Jesus.

We can’t wait to meet you, Little One! You have such a wonderful family waiting for you, and sooooo many people who already love you!

She’s beautiful and radiant! Great pictures Jamie.
Awe! I love these pictures. I especially like the one with everyone’s hands on mama’s belly! Nita is such a georgous mama. What a wonderful family.
Such beautiful photos. I adore this family.
Beautiful! Thank you for sharing these! Now I need to go get a tissue! Can’t wait to hear about the little one!!
Tears are streaming down my face! What a wonderful gift for a wonderful family!
These are great photos! What a special family! We can’t wait to meet Baby Meadows!
Amazing! Thank you so much for sharing!
I love these pictures. What a blessing it was to be with you all in Sunday school this past Sunday. Jamie, I didn’t meet you but Helen pointed you out to me so now I have a point of reference about what gifted artist took these photos. They are wonderful. So looking forward to hearing about Baby Meadows tomorrow.
Awesome! Thanks for sharing. God is so good, and I am so glad we can share in there joy! Can’t wait to hear if baby Meadows is a he or she! Either way, it’s a blessing!
What precious pictures!!!! Thank you for sharing all of these with us. We will surely be praying for Nita tomorrow along with all of the medical staff who have a part in the surgery and delivery.
That Drew, he’s a hunk!