I‘ve learned a lot about myself over the course of this pregnancy.  I’ve learned about my body, my faith, and my relationships in ways that have been at times troubling, at times comforting.  I’ve experienced many moments affirming various traits I’ve always known about myself, while other moments seem to be precursors of how I’ll approach motherhood.

One of the lighter revelations has been realizing that I love, love, love baby safari animals.  Seriously?  Seriously.

Now, a few years ago, I decided that my favorite animal is the duck.  Think about it—ducks can walk, fly, and swim.  That’s one more than I can do.  Plus, I used to feed the ducks pieces of bread off the dock behind our shore house when I was little.  So it’s safe to say they’ve always had a special place in my heart.

It wasn’t until we started to shop for décor for the baby’s room that I realized I also have a major weakness for cartoon-y renditions of baby monkeys, giraffes, lions, and elephants.  Somehow, everywhere we looked at Babies ‘R’ Us, my eye instantly went to the baby jungle creatures.  Just like I always pick out the dark blue patterned tops in clothing stores, I could not get enough of round, smiling little monkey faces.  I was surprised, for sure, but also so overcome with cuteness that I didn’t quite know what to do with myself.  Was this a reflection of who I am somehow?  Or of what I will become as a mother?

Interestingly, this theme worked its way into many of the shower gifts I was given at home, without anyone having heard about my new passion from me, my mom, or anyone.  Those close to me must have also recognized this exotic yet adorable tendency in me, though I’m not sure I’ll ever know how.

The people at work, however, do know about my new love, and this week they really took it to heart.  Yesterday my colleagues threw me an incredibly thoughtful baby shower.  There were lots of glowing smiles when I stepped into the room, and they’d even gotten John to come!  What was especially touching was what folks, especially those who are parents too, wrote on the card they gave me.  They offered short and sweet reminders to enjoy the very special (and exhausting) days ahead. I am grateful to work with smart, loving, and funny people, and also encouraged by their willingness to share their wisdom with me.

But that has nothing to do with baby safari animals.  The cupcakes they got from Nine Cakes in Brooklyn for the celebration, however, do.  Try to tell me these are not the most adorable cupcakes you’ve ever seen. Really, go ahead.

See?  Impossible.  Hands down, cutest cupcakes ever.  Yes, they were as delicious as they look.

Having a baby really brings out the cute in people.  And in safari animals.