Essence Atkins
Essence Atkins is preparing for an extra special gift this winter - she's expecting a baby on Christmas Day (25Dec11).
The former Smart Guy star, 39, and her husband Jaime Mendez will become first-time parents in December (11).
They tell People.com, "Our gratitude is overwhelming to have found each other and adding a baby to our happy home is truly a dream come true.
"We are both elated and humbled by this amazing gift."
Atkins met businessman Mendez via an online dating site and they wed in 2008.