Hey-o! Maternity Monday is a little delayed this week (yeah, I know it’s Friday) but it’s better late than never. :) We have been having fun and staying busy visiting friends and fellow church members in Southern California, but are now back on the Central Coast for a few days. But in just a few more days Bran and I are going back on the road and heading up the coast to Monterey for our One Year Anniversary! I hope you guys have had a great week and a fun Memorial Day. Here is Maternity Monday…. via Friday. :D How Far Along: 24 weeks Gender: Girlfriend!! Symptoms: When I eat salt, I swell (i.e. kankles and fat feet). Sometimes when I walk I get cramps in my lower abdomen. Also when I walk quickly or go upstairs, I get winded easily. Plus this baby belly is itchy! Energy Level: A 7, on a scale from 1 to 10, ten being the highest. Energy this week has gone down a little bit. We were traveling a lot this last week and driving many places. Traveling tires me out anyways, but to do it with a human growing inside of me, takes traveling to the ‘exhausting level’.  Mood: Good, happy, grumpy, emotional. Not sure how they all fit together, but they do. When I am really tired, just let me be (and don’t take it personally). Haha! Poor Husband.  Cravings: Still got a hankering for the sweets, but I’m really trying to lay off of them….But then we were introduced to Australian licorice from Trader Joe’s (strawberry flavored) from our friend Alaina, and it’s sort of been an uphill battle. I’ll let you know how it goes. I feel like I’m losing. Ha! Also, another introduction this week: Korean Tacos. I may have mentioned to Brandon a handful of times how good they were and have secretly wondered where I can get them again.  Food Aversions: Surprisingly, nothing really. I even ate scrambled eggs the other day. Who knew?! Sleep: The usual; getting up to pee in the middle of the night, feeling exhausted. But now also feeling totally uncomfortable. I am having a hard time finding a good position to sleep in (not much to choose from…either left or right side), and this child of mine is loving to move. Constantly.  Best Moment(s) This Week: The Lord has been outpouring His provision towards us this week. It has been beautiful seeing friends sacrificially handing us envelopes of cash and telling us, “The Lord has put it on my heart to give this to you.” We have been so blown away by peoples love and support. Friends have provided groceries for us, paid for us to go out to lunch, had us over for dinner, and even filled up our gas tank. Visiting friends this week has been awesome and a blessing. Thank you so much to the Peterson family and to the Cho family for hosting us in our travels down to Southern California!  What I’m Thankful For This Week: All the things mentioned above. Plus, just realizing more and more that the Lord is entrusting us with this little girl’s life. What a privilege and honor to be her mama. Just thinking about bringing her into the world makes me cry. Also, this coming Monday is mine and Brandon’s one year wedding anniversary. (more on that in another post) It’s incredible to reflect back on all that has happened in a year!!  Fun Story Of This Week: We have started playing music for baby girl through placing Brandon’s headphones on my belly. We think she loves it from all the moves she makes when hearing it and are hoping that she will have a knack for music as she grows up.  Weight Gain To Date: 20 lbs How Has My Body Changed This Week: I am getting big! And people are noticing. (A word to the wise, don’t tell a pregnant woman that she is getting ‘fat’ or ‘chubby’. It may seem funny, but it’s not.) My belly (and body) is feeling pretty uncomfortable and it’s getting harder to move around and stand up on my own. Itty-Bitty is moving a lot and is having fun kicking, punching, and moving. Also, l I gave in….Maternity jeans have been bought. I thought I could hold off not having them, but I am finding they are a must. Why? I was wearing all my regular jeans, unzipped, with my belly band around it. But the unzipped jeans resulted in the zipper rubbing up against my belly and irritating my skin. BUT I’m loving my growing belly and loving feeling Itty-Bitty dancing around on the inside! View high resolution

Hey-o! Maternity Monday is a little delayed this week (yeah, I know it’s Friday) but it’s better late than never. :) We have been having fun and staying busy visiting friends and fellow church members in Southern California, but are now back on the Central Coast for a few days. But in just a few more days Bran and I are going back on the road and heading up the coast to Monterey for our One Year Anniversary! I hope you guys have had a great week and a fun Memorial Day. Here is Maternity Monday…. via Friday. :D

How Far Along: 24 weeks

Gender: Girlfriend!!

Symptoms: When I eat salt, I swell (i.e. kankles and fat feet). Sometimes when I walk I get cramps in my lower abdomen. Also when I walk quickly or go upstairs, I get winded easily. Plus this baby belly is itchy!

Energy Level: A 7, on a scale from 1 to 10, ten being the highest. Energy this week has gone down a little bit. We were traveling a lot this last week and driving many places. Traveling tires me out anyways, but to do it with a human growing inside of me, takes traveling to the ‘exhausting level’. 

Mood: Good, happy, grumpy, emotional. Not sure how they all fit together, but they do. When I am really tired, just let me be (and don’t take it personally). Haha! Poor Husband. 

Cravings: Still got a hankering for the sweets, but I’m really trying to lay off of them….But then we were introduced to Australian licorice from Trader Joe’s (strawberry flavored) from our friend Alaina, and it’s sort of been an uphill battle. I’ll let you know how it goes. I feel like I’m losing. Ha! Also, another introduction this week: Korean Tacos. I may have mentioned to Brandon a handful of times how good they were and have secretly wondered where I can get them again. 

Food Aversions: Surprisingly, nothing really. I even ate scrambled eggs the other day. Who knew?!

Sleep: The usual; getting up to pee in the middle of the night, feeling exhausted. But now also feeling totally uncomfortable. I am having a hard time finding a good position to sleep in (not much to choose from…either left or right side), and this child of mine is loving to move. Constantly. 

Best Moment(s) This Week: The Lord has been outpouring His provision towards us this week. It has been beautiful seeing friends sacrificially handing us envelopes of cash and telling us, “The Lord has put it on my heart to give this to you.” We have been so blown away by peoples love and support. Friends have provided groceries for us, paid for us to go out to lunch, had us over for dinner, and even filled up our gas tank. Visiting friends this week has been awesome and a blessing. Thank you so much to the Peterson family and to the Cho family for hosting us in our travels down to Southern California! 

What I’m Thankful For This Week: All the things mentioned above. Plus, just realizing more and more that the Lord is entrusting us with this little girl’s life. What a privilege and honor to be her mama. Just thinking about bringing her into the world makes me cry. Also, this coming Monday is mine and Brandon’s one year wedding anniversary. (more on that in another post) It’s incredible to reflect back on all that has happened in a year!! 

Fun Story Of This Week: We have started playing music for baby girl through placing Brandon’s headphones on my belly. We think she loves it from all the moves she makes when hearing it and are hoping that she will have a knack for music as she grows up. 

Weight Gain To Date: 20 lbs

How Has My Body Changed This Week: I am getting big! And people are noticing. (A word to the wise, don’t tell a pregnant woman that she is getting ‘fat’ or ‘chubby’. It may seem funny, but it’s not.) My belly (and body) is feeling pretty uncomfortable and it’s getting harder to move around and stand up on my own. Itty-Bitty is moving a lot and is having fun kicking, punching, and moving. Also, l I gave in….Maternity jeans have been bought. I thought I could hold off not having them, but I am finding they are a must. Why? I was wearing all my regular jeans, unzipped, with my belly band around it. But the unzipped jeans resulted in the zipper rubbing up against my belly and irritating my skin. BUT I’m loving my growing belly and loving feeling Itty-Bitty dancing around on the inside!

Hey everyone!! It’s Maternity Monday!! Well, it is safe to say that something is in the water because not only do I know of so many ladies who are pregnant right now (seriously, I am pretty sure I know of about 15-20 friends/family/acquaintances who’s ego’s are prego), but I have seen so many other pregnant ladies around town. How is everyone doing? We are doing good!! I’m excited to share with you all this week about all the stuff that has been going on. I’m getting huge, so I hope you enjoy. HA! How Far Along: 23 weeks Gender: Baby Girl Symptoms: Oh boy…. Swollen ankles and feet, gums hurting when chewing meat, a sore back, and Braxton Hicks (not fun!). I follow The Bump website each week for updates, and this week I literally have all of the symptoms they have described that may happen at 23 weeks.  Energy Level: A 9, on a scale from 1 to 10, ten being the highest. Even though I am having all those awesome symptoms, I still feel pretty good on the energy scale. Although, walking long distances, going up hills, or climbing up stairs, makes me breathe heavy.  Mood: Good, but a little grumpy at times. Poor Brandon got the case of my grumps this morning. Don’t worry, I apologized later.  Cravings: Candy. Ugghhh…. I’m doing a body cleanse this week (meaning I will try to eat as healthy as possible and not touch the yummy sweetness for a good long while).  Food Aversions: Scrambled eggs. Sleep: Ho-hum. Not that great.Tossing and turning and getting up to do my rounds in the bathroom. This may or may not explain the grumpiness lately.  Best Moment(s) This Week: Having our final MediCal meeting this morning. Not only did we qualify (Praise Jesus!), but both the baby and me are fully covered, no cost out of pocket. Can I get a Hallelujah!? We were just applying for OB care (which covers prenatal visits, ultrasounds, labor/delivery, and the babies first year of life), but found out we qualified for full coverage for me as well (which, as our case worker explained, I can break my leg and be fully covered for all costs. ALL costs!!). The Lord is so, so, so good and we are praising Him for how He provides for us!! What I’m Thankful For This Week: Brandon and I had lunch with the pastor of one of our supporting churches and he informed us that the church is going to continue supporting us each month while we are in the states. AMEN!! The Lord KNOWS our needs even before we ever mention them to Him. Also, we got a car to drive through the middle of July (thank you so much Paul and Patti for your generosity!!). The Lord just keeps on giving. We are so blessed! Funny Story Of This Week: Brandon and I were laying down on the bed, and he had his head resting on my big belly. All of a sudden Itty-Bitty kicked him right in the face. Brandon lifted his head, looked up at me as if to say “Did she just do what I think she did?”, and we started laughing so hard. Baby girl has been moving SO much lately! Weight Gain To Date: 18 lbs  How Has My Body Changed This Week: I am feeling really big these days. Itty-Bitty is growing a lot (which explains part of the reason for the jump in weight this week). Brandon and I were up in Paso Robles this weekend visiting his siblings and friends. When we drove back down to my parents house last night, my mom could notice that just over the weekend my stomach had grown a lot in size. Praise the Lord though, still no stretch marks!! Just a weird belly button and boobs that just won’t stop growing (that’s right, I got new bra’s this week and I have gone up 2 sizes. This craziness should really stop soon.) View high resolution

Hey everyone!! It’s Maternity Monday!! Well, it is safe to say that something is in the water because not only do I know of so many ladies who are pregnant right now (seriously, I am pretty sure I know of about 15-20 friends/family/acquaintances who’s ego’s are prego), but I have seen so many other pregnant ladies around town. How is everyone doing? We are doing good!! I’m excited to share with you all this week about all the stuff that has been going on. I’m getting huge, so I hope you enjoy. HA!

How Far Along: 23 weeks

Gender: Baby Girl

Symptoms: Oh boy…. Swollen ankles and feet, gums hurting when chewing meat, a sore back, and Braxton Hicks (not fun!). I follow The Bump website each week for updates, and this week I literally have all of the symptoms they have described that may happen at 23 weeks. 

Energy Level: A 9, on a scale from 1 to 10, ten being the highest. Even though I am having all those awesome symptoms, I still feel pretty good on the energy scale. Although, walking long distances, going up hills, or climbing up stairs, makes me breathe heavy. 

Mood: Good, but a little grumpy at times. Poor Brandon got the case of my grumps this morning. Don’t worry, I apologized later. 

Cravings: Candy. Ugghhh…. I’m doing a body cleanse this week (meaning I will try to eat as healthy as possible and not touch the yummy sweetness for a good long while). 

Food Aversions: Scrambled eggs.

Sleep: Ho-hum. Not that great.Tossing and turning and getting up to do my rounds in the bathroom. This may or may not explain the grumpiness lately. 

Best Moment(s) This Week: Having our final MediCal meeting this morning. Not only did we qualify (Praise Jesus!), but both the baby and me are fully covered, no cost out of pocket. Can I get a Hallelujah!? We were just applying for OB care (which covers prenatal visits, ultrasounds, labor/delivery, and the babies first year of life), but found out we qualified for full coverage for me as well (which, as our case worker explained, I can break my leg and be fully covered for all costs. ALL costs!!). The Lord is so, so, so good and we are praising Him for how He provides for us!!

What I’m Thankful For This Week: Brandon and I had lunch with the pastor of one of our supporting churches and he informed us that the church is going to continue supporting us each month while we are in the states. AMEN!! The Lord KNOWS our needs even before we ever mention them to Him. Also, we got a car to drive through the middle of July (thank you so much Paul and Patti for your generosity!!). The Lord just keeps on giving. We are so blessed!

Funny Story Of This Week: Brandon and I were laying down on the bed, and he had his head resting on my big belly. All of a sudden Itty-Bitty kicked him right in the face. Brandon lifted his head, looked up at me as if to say “Did she just do what I think she did?”, and we started laughing so hard. Baby girl has been moving SO much lately!

Weight Gain To Date: 18 lbs 

How Has My Body Changed This Week: I am feeling really big these days. Itty-Bitty is growing a lot (which explains part of the reason for the jump in weight this week). Brandon and I were up in Paso Robles this weekend visiting his siblings and friends. When we drove back down to my parents house last night, my mom could notice that just over the weekend my stomach had grown a lot in size. Praise the Lord though, still no stretch marks!! Just a weird belly button and boobs that just won’t stop growing (that’s right, I got new bra’s this week and I have gone up 2 sizes. This craziness should really stop soon.)

some things learned lately…

  • I miss this guy ^
  • Date nights are (always necessary) totally doable in CA on a small budget.
  • God will ALWAYS provide. Always. And He does it well. [We got a really nice car to drive through the middle of July.] Praise Jesus!
  • Brandon is going to be the best dad: We went to Barnes and Noble by his request to get the book The Expectant Father. He is now several chapters in. I am one blessed lady. 
  • We serve a God with unlimited resources. 
  • I love my husband more today than I ever have before. 
  • Itty-Bitty is going to have a sweet tooth. I will not go into detail about the amount of Mike and Ikes, Raisinets, and RedVines I ate on our date night….it’s shameful. 
  • Things I used to be able to do pre-baby bump, are now not possible: Bran and I walked the Bob Jones trail in San Luis (it goes from SLO to Avila Beach and is 3 miles one way, 3 miles back). Why I thought I could walk 6 miles, who knows. Yes, we made it to Avila Beach, but then Bran ran in his sandals back to the car (that’s 3 miles in leather flip flops in under 25 minutes), and then drove back to the beach to come get me. SO what did I learn? Waddling 6 miles is not something that I can do, AND I have such a servant-hearted husband. 
  • I still love wearing high-heels, even if it’s just around the house. (Yes I’m 5’10” and yes, my center of gravity is completely off, but whatev’s.) 
  • I am getting huge. 
  • I’m in need of some hair love. 
  • Strangers feel completely uninhibited to ask pregnant ladies whatever they want: 

Sales Woman: I love pregnant bellies!

Becoming M: Awh, that’s sweet.

SW: How far along are you? 

BM: Coming up on 6 months.

SW: What are you having?

BM: A girl.

SW: What’s her name?

BM: We actually aren’t telling anyone. We haven’t even told our families yet.

SW: Are you going to have an epidural?

BM: Uhhmm, (hesitation) I haven’t decided. I’m not planning on it and hope not to, but I’m keeping my options open.

SW: Do you think you’re going to swear while you’re in labor?

BM: Hahaha (uneasy laugh), Uhhhmm (hesitation filler), well….

…………………….

Have a happy Friday everyone!! Make sure to check back here on Monday for Maternity Monday. 

The Very Worst Missionary

I loved this post that Jamie did over at the Very Worst Missionary for Mother’s Day. So real and so fresh: qualities I want to have as a mom. Enjoy. 

reflections

Before I get into the shower I feel weird because I get that feeling (you all know the one I’m talking about) like I forgot to do something. (In Tanzania we have to turn on our electric shower heater with a switch before turning on the shower for warm water)

When my computer is dying I wonder if the electricity is on so I can charge it. (In Tanzania the power is off often [thank you corrupt government for your terrible electricity company] and I have to always check that is on before I can plan to do most anything)

When I see mosquitos here, I feel the great need to kill the little bugger fast. (In Tanzania, mosquitos can have malaria in them and have gotten many friends [including Brandon] sick)

When my clothes are wrinkled, I just wear them as they are. (In Tanzania we don’t own an iron or a dryer. I forget that I can just throw my clothes in the dryer here and have warm, wrinkle free clothes to wear for the day)

When I greet older people here, I feel the desire to say “Shikamoo”, but then realize how incredibly awkward that would be for everyone in the situation. (In Tanzania, you greet elders by saying Shikamoo [meaning: I grovel at your feet] in respect)

When I need to wash my hands, hot water comes out of the facet. I admit that I have spent unnecessary minutes standing at the kitchen sink to just feel hot water wash over my hands. (In Tanzania we only have cold water pumped throughout our house; hence the electric water heater for our shower)

………………………

These are my random reflections of my awkwardness in being back in the states. I have felt several hesitations, caught myself before saying unnecessary “Shikamoos”, and stood at the sink to feel hot water for too many minutes.

This is me in transition. 

Maternity Monday!! How was everyone’s Mother’s Day? We had a nice day relaxing and made a nice dinner for my mom. I guess it was my first Mother’s Day, but I think next year celebrating will feel a little more official. Can’t wait to hold Itty-Bitty in my arms! Life in CA has been good so far, we’re just taking it day by day. Thanks for everyone who has been praying for us since we have been here!! We appreciate it so much. Hope your weekend went well!! Again, Happy Mother’s Day to all you mommies out there, and of course the mommies to be!! :) How Far Along: 22 weeks Gender: Girlfriend! Symptoms: Feeling great! …. Feeling huge, but feeling great! My back hurts if I stand for too long, but other than that, I’m feeling good. Yay! Energy Level: A 10, on a scale from 1 to 10, ten being the highest. This is the nice part of the pregnancy. Feeling more like myself and having energy to do most everything.  Mood: Happy! Realizing more and more that within 18 weeks (more or less) that we are going to have a baby. Totally crazy! Totally exciting! Totally making me have to trust God all the more! Cravings: Food. I’m scared that I’m going to really start putting on the pounds, but pretty much everything tastes so yummy. But don’t you worry (as if you are), I have been loving making fresh baby-greens salads with sliced strawberries, mozzarella cheese, sunflower seeds, craisins, and raspberry vinaigrette. It’s so good!! Food Aversions: Scrambled eggs just don’t appeal to me. I’m getting better though: I can be around them now, whereas just the smell/site of them made me queasy.  Sleep: Alright. Not the best. Waking up every night to pee at 3am. My bladder is tiny these days.   Best Moment(s) This Week: Buying some new clothes (what is it about new clothes that just make a girl feel better?), getting Thai food with Brandon and my parents, cooking food for my family (cooking is a lot more fun here), having a date night with Bran on Saturday night [he surprised me by getting all dressed up and we danced in the living room], making Mother’s Day dinner for my mom yesterday [gourmet mac-n-cheese, bruschetta, yummy salad, and fresh fruit with Angel’s food cake]. Food really is just better here!   What I’m Thankful For This Week: Beginning the process of applying for MediCal today. As we were sitting waiting to be seen, Brandon and I prayed together. As we were praying, the Lord whispered in my heart “I will always take care of you.” I’m so thankful that our Lord is the God of provision, detail, and grace. Praising Him that this season is what He designed, and He is allowing us to trust Him in greater ways.  Funny Story Of This Week: Brandon and I went on an early morning walk on the beach in Morro Bay. As we were walking we noticed a man sitting on the sand smoking and drinking a couple BudLights. As we got closer, he hollered over to us, “Where are you 2 from?” We told him, and he slurred something back to us that we couldn’t make out. Morro Bay has some pretty salty people; it feels good to be back among the community here….no matter if they are drunk on the beach at 9am.  Weight Gain To Date: 11.5 lbs  How Has My Body Changed This Week: My belly button is in the process of getting flat and my belly is getting more and more round. My pants are still fitting me in my hips and legs, but zipping them up is now impossible, hence the introduction of the ‘bump smoother’. I got it from Target and it’s working out well so far. When I eat chocolate, Itty-Bitty starts doing some serious moves. She’s been moving a lot more lately while I’m standing/moving around….something she would only really do when I was resting/sitting.   As Brandon read in one of our pregnancy books and told me so nicely, Itty-Bitty is going to start getting a lot bigger in the next several weeks, so I’m going to get a lot bigger too. Let the hugeness continue! :) View high resolution

Maternity Monday!! How was everyone’s Mother’s Day? We had a nice day relaxing and made a nice dinner for my mom. I guess it was my first Mother’s Day, but I think next year celebrating will feel a little more official. Can’t wait to hold Itty-Bitty in my arms! Life in CA has been good so far, we’re just taking it day by day. Thanks for everyone who has been praying for us since we have been here!! We appreciate it so much. Hope your weekend went well!! Again, Happy Mother’s Day to all you mommies out there, and of course the mommies to be!! :)

How Far Along: 22 weeks

Gender: Girlfriend!

Symptoms: Feeling great! …. Feeling huge, but feeling great! My back hurts if I stand for too long, but other than that, I’m feeling good. Yay!

Energy Level: A 10, on a scale from 1 to 10, ten being the highest. This is the nice part of the pregnancy. Feeling more like myself and having energy to do most everything. 

Mood: Happy! Realizing more and more that within 18 weeks (more or less) that we are going to have a baby. Totally crazy! Totally exciting! Totally making me have to trust God all the more!

Cravings: Food. I’m scared that I’m going to really start putting on the pounds, but pretty much everything tastes so yummy. But don’t you worry (as if you are), I have been loving making fresh baby-greens salads with sliced strawberries, mozzarella cheese, sunflower seeds, craisins, and raspberry vinaigrette. It’s so good!!

Food Aversions: Scrambled eggs just don’t appeal to me. I’m getting better though: I can be around them now, whereas just the smell/site of them made me queasy. 

Sleep: Alright. Not the best. Waking up every night to pee at 3am. My bladder is tiny these days.  

Best Moment(s) This Week: Buying some new clothes (what is it about new clothes that just make a girl feel better?), getting Thai food with Brandon and my parents, cooking food for my family (cooking is a lot more fun here), having a date night with Bran on Saturday night [he surprised me by getting all dressed up and we danced in the living room], making Mother’s Day dinner for my mom yesterday [gourmet mac-n-cheese, bruschetta, yummy salad, and fresh fruit with Angel’s food cake]. Food really is just better here!  

What I’m Thankful For This Week: Beginning the process of applying for MediCal today. As we were sitting waiting to be seen, Brandon and I prayed together. As we were praying, the Lord whispered in my heart “I will always take care of you.” I’m so thankful that our Lord is the God of provision, detail, and grace. Praising Him that this season is what He designed, and He is allowing us to trust Him in greater ways. 

Funny Story Of This Week: Brandon and I went on an early morning walk on the beach in Morro Bay. As we were walking we noticed a man sitting on the sand smoking and drinking a couple BudLights. As we got closer, he hollered over to us, “Where are you 2 from?” We told him, and he slurred something back to us that we couldn’t make out. Morro Bay has some pretty salty people; it feels good to be back among the community here….no matter if they are drunk on the beach at 9am. 

Weight Gain To Date: 11.5 lbs 

How Has My Body Changed This Week: My belly button is in the process of getting flat and my belly is getting more and more round. My pants are still fitting me in my hips and legs, but zipping them up is now impossible, hence the introduction of the ‘bump smoother’. I got it from Target and it’s working out well so far. When I eat chocolate, Itty-Bitty starts doing some serious moves. She’s been moving a lot more lately while I’m standing/moving around….something she would only really do when I was resting/sitting.  

As Brandon read in one of our pregnancy books and told me so nicely, Itty-Bitty is going to start getting a lot bigger in the next several weeks, so I’m going to get a lot bigger too. Let the hugeness continue! :)

Happy Mother’s Day to all you mom’s and mom’s to be!

You’re welcome. 

It’s been too long you guys!! I have missed doing Maternity Monday the last 2 weeks, and so, even though it’s Thursday, I just knew I needed to get a post up. Last week we were so crazy busy packing up our house; we didn’t even have time to take a picture. Plus, my appearance was nothing to show off. And then this last week after we got back, my macbook was having a slumber party at the Apple store (ie: getting some work done). Anywho,…. How is everyone doing? We are doing good! Adjusted to the time schedule and didn’t really experience any jetlag. For real! All you got to do is drudge through till night time (Friday, CA time) and force yourself to stay awake. We woke the next morning (Saturday) at 5am, but by the next day (Sunday) we were doing pretty good and feeling on schedule. It’s been nice to see my family and spend time with my parents. Lots of playoff games have been watched and yummy food has been eaten. (Sourdough bread, string cheese, and chicken that actually tastes like chicken…..oh how I have missed you!!) This is me at 21 weeks…. Happy Maternity *ahem* Thursday everyone! :) How Far Along: 21 weeks Gender: Baby Girl Symptoms: Feeling wonderful! When I’m tired though, I go down like a bag of bricks. Seriously, Brandon will pray for us at the end of the night while we are in bed, and I will hear the first part of the prayer, and then I won’t remember anything else. Sleeping hard lately! Also, I’m freezing here (it’s actually nice weather, but I am dressing like it’s winter. Hello sweaters, scarves, and socks! You don’t really exist in TZ).   Energy Level: A 9, on a scale from 1 to 10, ten being the highest.   Mood: Feeling good! It’s been good to reconnect with family and spend a lot more time with Bran.  Cravings: Burgers. We have already had In-N-Out (that’s a no brainer) and the Habit. Also, chips and salsa seem to always be on the table these days.   Food Aversions: Scrambled eggs = gross. Also, airplane food = grosser….not a good experience with that.  Sleep: 3am is my new bathroom wakeup call. Thank God I am able to fall back to sleep. Also, thank you God for american mattresses. Seriously, people. Thank God for your mattress before you go to sleep tonight.  Best Moment(s) This Week: Seeing my family, browsing through stores (Oh Target, you still have my heart), eating yummy goodness, watching Laker games with my man, being reunited with clothes that I had left here….it’s feels like I got a whole new wardrobe, wearing high heels again (even if it’s just around the house), looking at baby clothes with Brandon and both of us saying “that is so cute” about a hundred times, using free wifi (thank you Starbucks)….so many others.   What I’m Thankful For This Week: Just re-read my “Best Moments” from this week.   Funny Story Of This Week: Oh.my.word. Here’s the short of it: So we fly into LAX, get through customs, get our luggage, get scanned in the Ag section of the airport to make sure we didn’t smuggle in African soil or something, and make our way to the arrivals gate. We get there and expect to see our welcome party. No one. There was no one in sight. So then we look around, seeing maybe if our welcomers are just standing in a different area. No one. Then we go outside and see if maybe they are out there. Nada. We wait for about 45 minutes. Nothing. It’s freezing outside (remember how I am wearing winter gear these days?) so we come back inside. We are totally puzzled and just assume they are running late. We wait. Nothing. Thank God, I had some US change in my purse. I call my sisters cellphone at a phone booth (we didn’t have our American phones connected yet). It goes to voicemail. I call my parents business phone, and hear my stepdad answer. He sounds surprised to hear my voice and asks where we are. I tell him LAX. Words are said, confusion is cleared up, and he breaks the news to me that it’s Friday. FRIDAY?!?! What?! Brandon and I had read our itinerary wrong and thought that we were flying in on Saturday in LAX. So, long story short, we told people the wrong day of when we were to fly in. …. I call my sister Candace again and she had heard my voicemail in the meantime. She told us to take the Flyaway shuttle from LAX to Van Nuys, then she picked us up from Van Nuys, had a hotel room arranged for us in Burbank, and bought us In-N-Out. It was the craziest experience!! Thank you everyone who was praying for us while we were traveling!!!!! Seriously, it was only by the blood of Jesus that we made it through. Just imagine it: an emotional, tired pregnant mama, crying out of pure exhaustion; had been throwing up on the previous flight into the waste bags the airplane provides; then told it was Friday and not Saturday, and that we had been confused + had confused everyone else. Needless to say, it was the most memorable traveling experience I have ever had. Candace, we are so thankful for you!! Weight Gain To Date: 8.5 lbs  How Has My Body Changed This Week: My belly button is looking like it’s about to get flat, my stomach muscles are being stretched like no other, and baby girl is moving while I am walking around (previously I could only feel her moving around when I was laying down or sitting). Also, I only have one pair of jeans that buttons. I am challenging myself to see if I can go through my whole pregnancy without buying maternity clothes, rather normal loose clothes that I will be able to wear again later. Let’s see if I can do it…. :) View high resolution

It’s been too long you guys!! I have missed doing Maternity Monday the last 2 weeks, and so, even though it’s Thursday, I just knew I needed to get a post up. Last week we were so crazy busy packing up our house; we didn’t even have time to take a picture. Plus, my appearance was nothing to show off. And then this last week after we got back, my macbook was having a slumber party at the Apple store (ie: getting some work done). Anywho,…. How is everyone doing? We are doing good! Adjusted to the time schedule and didn’t really experience any jetlag. For real! All you got to do is drudge through till night time (Friday, CA time) and force yourself to stay awake. We woke the next morning (Saturday) at 5am, but by the next day (Sunday) we were doing pretty good and feeling on schedule. It’s been nice to see my family and spend time with my parents. Lots of playoff games have been watched and yummy food has been eaten. (Sourdough bread, string cheese, and chicken that actually tastes like chicken…..oh how I have missed you!!) This is me at 21 weeks…. Happy Maternity *ahem* Thursday everyone! :)

How Far Along: 21 weeks

Gender: Baby Girl

Symptoms: Feeling wonderful! When I’m tired though, I go down like a bag of bricks. Seriously, Brandon will pray for us at the end of the night while we are in bed, and I will hear the first part of the prayer, and then I won’t remember anything else. Sleeping hard lately! Also, I’m freezing here (it’s actually nice weather, but I am dressing like it’s winter. Hello sweaters, scarves, and socks! You don’t really exist in TZ).  

Energy Level: A 9, on a scale from 1 to 10, ten being the highest.  

Mood: Feeling good! It’s been good to reconnect with family and spend a lot more time with Bran. 

Cravings: Burgers. We have already had In-N-Out (that’s a no brainer) and the Habit. Also, chips and salsa seem to always be on the table these days.  

Food Aversions: Scrambled eggs = gross. Also, airplane food = grosser….not a good experience with that. 

Sleep: 3am is my new bathroom wakeup call. Thank God I am able to fall back to sleep. Also, thank you God for american mattresses. Seriously, people. Thank God for your mattress before you go to sleep tonight. 

Best Moment(s) This Week: Seeing my family, browsing through stores (Oh Target, you still have my heart), eating yummy goodness, watching Laker games with my man, being reunited with clothes that I had left here….it’s feels like I got a whole new wardrobe, wearing high heels again (even if it’s just around the house), looking at baby clothes with Brandon and both of us saying “that is so cute” about a hundred times, using free wifi (thank you Starbucks)….so many others.  

What I’m Thankful For This Week: Just re-read my “Best Moments” from this week.  

Funny Story Of This Week: Oh.my.word. Here’s the short of it: So we fly into LAX, get through customs, get our luggage, get scanned in the Ag section of the airport to make sure we didn’t smuggle in African soil or something, and make our way to the arrivals gate. We get there and expect to see our welcome party. No one. There was no one in sight. So then we look around, seeing maybe if our welcomers are just standing in a different area. No one. Then we go outside and see if maybe they are out there. Nada. We wait for about 45 minutes. Nothing. It’s freezing outside (remember how I am wearing winter gear these days?) so we come back inside. We are totally puzzled and just assume they are running late. We wait. Nothing. Thank God, I had some US change in my purse. I call my sisters cellphone at a phone booth (we didn’t have our American phones connected yet). It goes to voicemail. I call my parents business phone, and hear my stepdad answer. He sounds surprised to hear my voice and asks where we are. I tell him LAX. Words are said, confusion is cleared up, and he breaks the news to me that it’s Friday. FRIDAY?!?! What?! Brandon and I had read our itinerary wrong and thought that we were flying in on Saturday in LAX. So, long story short, we told people the wrong day of when we were to fly in. …. I call my sister Candace again and she had heard my voicemail in the meantime. She told us to take the Flyaway shuttle from LAX to Van Nuys, then she picked us up from Van Nuys, had a hotel room arranged for us in Burbank, and bought us In-N-Out. It was the craziest experience!! Thank you everyone who was praying for us while we were traveling!!!!! Seriously, it was only by the blood of Jesus that we made it through. Just imagine it: an emotional, tired pregnant mama, crying out of pure exhaustion; had been throwing up on the previous flight into the waste bags the airplane provides; then told it was Friday and not Saturday, and that we had been confused + had confused everyone else. Needless to say, it was the most memorable traveling experience I have ever had.

Candace, we are so thankful for you!!

Weight Gain To Date: 8.5 lbs 

How Has My Body Changed This Week: My belly button is looking like it’s about to get flat, my stomach muscles are being stretched like no other, and baby girl is moving while I am walking around (previously I could only feel her moving around when I was laying down or sitting). Also, I only have one pair of jeans that buttons. I am challenging myself to see if I can go through my whole pregnancy without buying maternity clothes, rather normal loose clothes that I will be able to wear again later. Let’s see if I can do it…. :)

5 months pregnant and movin, movin, movin

Well, this week has officially been wild! I think Maternity Monday is going to have to be double duty next week. Sorry friends! This week is just getting crazier and busier with every hour of the day. For example: last night our car officially died. Completely. Thank you Jay, Rebekah, and Alex for saving us on the side of the road, and then helping us push our car around our driveway for about an hour. :) We also came home to no electricity last night after our prenatal appointment, and then had no water this morning. Sooo, trying to take showers the last couple days has been difficult (ie, non existant…it ain’t pretty, people!) Please continue praying for us this week. We get on a plane (haven’t even really pondered that thought much yet) in 2 days and will be traveling back to CA for 2 days. We got lots to do! Pray for me and baby girl. We are feeling tired today, but are being renewed by the Lord’s strength.

All in all, don’t expect much of me this week. Probably the next time I am on here, I will be writing from California. Thanks for the prayers everyone!! We definitely need the Lord is greater measures this week. 

seven days

Brandon and I fly out of Kilimanjaro in one week. We appreciate everyone’s prayers for us as we are packing up our belongings, cleaning, organizing, and feeling the emotional weight of leaving here (cause, let’s just be real, there is that weight). We are believing God for great things in this new season of life, and believing that He is calling us to rest and Sabbath. Therefore, when we arrive back in the states, we will be laying low for a while. We will not be rushing to see people other than family, make appointments, or speak at churches. We know that those will come in time, but for this beginning time when we are in CA, we feel strongly that we need to be still, rest, and reflect as a couple. We are believing Him for a sweet downpour of spiritual refreshment and encouragement. We appreciate everyone’s understanding and respect for us as a family during this time. We are excited to see all our friends and family, but we know that there is a proper time for reunion and want to be sensitive to God’s time schedule. I’m asking that you would pray for us daily this week. We fly out on the 3rd and arrive at LAX midday on the 5th. For the next 9 days, will you lift us up to the Lord, praying and interceding on our behalf? We would be so thankful if you did!! Pray for me during the flights as I can be sensitive to motion sickness. Pray for Itty-Bitty’s health. Pray for our stamina. Pray for Brandon as the leader of our family. Pray for our goodbyes and the many more details we have to tie up before leaving…. Plus so much more. Thanks for your support for us!! We are so blessed by our friends, family, and brothers and sisters in the faith around the world. 

our weekend in photos

Some people dress their dogs up in little outfits. This is our idea of ‘dressing up’ our dog. And can I just say that Dodger looks like a large scale Chiwawa in this pic? Brandon thinks I’m crazy, but Dodge does have a south of the border look to him, no? I think it’s the Yoda-like ears. 

This picture is unedited. Yup, the water is that blue. Oh, and yes, my Tarzan-esque husband has a great bod, too. 

Cool shorts Bran. PS, please look closely at that face. 

“Hurry and get in the picture! The timer is going!”

My forehead looks huge in this picture. Thank you sunlight for highlighting it. Ha!

I had mentioned on Monday about Dodger eating a ton or termites on Sunday night. Those swirling things up by the light is them, also all those tan looking things scattered around the ground. He was a happy dog. 

I posted this video yesterday on my Facebook (thanks Rebecca for sharing it), and loved it. If you haven’t seen it yet, you should. God is just so good! Look at the miracle of life that he has designed to the greatest detail! It’s just incredible.