40 Weeks

(this will be a short one since I am writing post birth)

How big is baby: 40 Weeks | Jackfruit
How I'm feeling: Exhausted, tired wanting to be done! Doing everything to get this baby out. Walks, Acupuncture, RRL Tea etc. Been contracting in the evenings but then I fall asleep to see if it's really it and it pans out. Went to the doctor and blood pressure normalized. With everything with the BP I ended up getting checked again on my due date. I was 1cm and Cervix was soft.
Weight gain/loss: 68
Stretch marks: Yes, Itching is uncontrollable, it's been really hard to deal with all week.
Sleep: Not much, contracting a lot at night and having itching problems are not making it too pleasant.
Photo: Now that you know his NAME! I can show you the actual wall I have been taking photos on and editing out to get white space :) Also, some Mya pics.

39 Weeks

How big is baby: 39 Weeks | Watermelon
How I'm feeling: Earlier this week great. The last couple of days have been ALOT harder. We had some BP scares over the weekend. Having me do a 24 Urine collect and store pee in the fridge! (which means staying home all day) Who knew, then go in and get checked again to see if my proteins were set. So we have really been "prepared" for the possibility of induction the last 3-4 drives to WI.

Mentally it has definitely gotten harder, as we had to wrap our minds around inducing, you get excited. Because as much as I don't want an induction unless medically necessary, you know that it will bring forth a baby (usually within 24hrs or so) the unknown is taken away. So I definitely think it has made me more impatient than ever and now with the last two days getting really, really physically uncomfortable I totally can see how women just say "I am done!"

Yet, as much as you are ready, waiting for baby can be scary too. I am sometimes fearful I won't be able to rock it, that the pain will be too much, or that I will be too tired. I am trying to just be real about where my emotions are at. You are SO excited, yet also kinda completely intimidated by it all.

Weight gain/loss: 62-66 going up and down quite a bit. It's so weird how some days I am much more swollen then others.
Stretch marks: Yes Mam, and these last 3-4 days they are CRAZY itchy! AHH. It has probably increased to me taking more baths or showers during the day to relax, but my heart just goes out to the momma's that have had this the whole time they are pregnant. It's definitely been the most frustrating/discouraging.
Sleep: Definitely getting way harder. Smaller stretches and it's kind of tough when you are awake at 3am for no reason at all. Trying to read scripture to calm myself down in the am.
Diet/Cravings/Aversions: Been eating a lot less since last Thursday, since yesterday I want all the GF chocolate chip cookies I can find ;).
Movement: Yes! He was super active over the weekend and was quite quiet yesterday until late night. Hoping he is resting up for his arrival!
What I'm loving: Having NOTHING on our calendar. I definitely these last weeks have just wanted to crawl up and stay at home with Matt and just be here with each other. It's odd for me as I am super social, but I just want to spend time with him. Water walking was great last week in the nights, but I am a little afraid it's what has set off my itching and just want to encourage gravity so normal walking I think will be the way to go until after his due date.
Symptoms: Itchy Belly, sore hips, ear pressure, low belly aches, waves (contractions), tight tummy. Sleepy often.
What I'm looking forward to: Meeting this BABY! I really really really hope he comes this week.
Best moment of the week: Seeing our doctor yesterday morning and having my BP be normal and him really calm all our fears that we had over the weekend, cause we couldn't see him on Friday (he was birthing) also, Matt has been so incredibly helpful and generous while he is home. I am so grateful to have such an amazing man as my hubby and little man's daddy!
Verse that I am clinging to: Psalm 46:1-3 – “God is our refuge and strength, a very present help in trouble. Therefore we will not fear, though the earth should change, and though the mountains slip into the heart of the sea; though its waters roar and foam, though the mountains quake at its swelling pride.”

To be honest, I am tired and discouraged. I don't know that I would be if we haven't had all these. We might be having a baby today, days, but just trying to look at it as a sign that the Lord wants more one-one time of me to trust him. Through this, through everything. Trying hard to surrender everything, including every body ache, fear and worry. A VERY PRESENT help in time of need. He is. HE IS.
  
Photo: 
We took photos on Saturday night after sunset just because we weren't sure if we would be pregnant the next day. So hoping to take a couple more tomorrow to match the feel of our others, these are just so dark and grainy. But at least we have them right?

 

| 39 Weeks and 2 Days in these above |

37 Weeks

How big is baby: 37 Weeks | Wintermelon (Again, posting late. Today is 38!)
How I'm feeling:  Excited that I made it through all of my work commitments. I can't believe I am actually on the flip side of the "2 Weddings" that I had been most concerned about. Praise the LORD! I felt good and that work is almost completely done (working crazy hours to do so). Spending alot of time this week tidying up loose ends and napping.
Exhausted and starving and non motivated. I feel like I can't eat enough to keep my body satisfied, yet I can't eat too much at one time. I haven't popped on the scale this week just because of where my heart was at last week (I talk about it more below) Definite swelling more, but not overly swollen like in one place but just feeling like I am retaining water. I have been too tired for walks but made it to 2 Barre classes this week. Couldn't do every exercise but modified as I needed to. Hoping to get to Yoga tonight and start walking earlier when it's less humid.
Weight gain/loss: To be honest I am starting to get afraid of what postpartum will be like with 60 maybe plus extra pounds. I have been mega discouraged about my body this last week. I'm scared all the old yucky body images issues are going to come back. I just feel like a failure even though I ate really clean and did the best I could with workouts. It's just hard when most of your friends that even eat like minded only gained 30 or so. These pictures definitely make me feel uncomfortable, but some of my other outfits I don't feel as huge. 
Stretch marks: Yes, both sides of my belly button as per last week. Tiger stripes!
Sleep: Actually reasonable, getting up a ton of times to pee. But CANNOT get enough, I could sleep all day.
Diet/Cravings/Aversions: This week I don't want fruit as much. I want salty things. Very weird!
Movement: Definitely a little less but will kick up when I seem to get worried. I just think he is running out of room in there...
What I'm loving: Acupuncture was great Friday. Maybe I'll go for "getting it started" treatments starting next week. Being done with commitments! I kinda just want to hole up with my husband and hang out until the baby comes. It's so odd to feel like I don't "have" to do anything for a bit.
Symptoms: Tiny bits of heartburn, swollen chest...the ladies are growing again!!! eek!, slow movement. I have had a bad earache for WEEKS and I just think it's increased fluid and mucus in my head that is swishing around. It's not too fun. Definitely been having Braxton Hicks for a couple of weeks consistently now, this week I think I felt a couple of normal contractions too. Greasy skin and Hot flashes too.
What I'm looking forward to: Tomorrow Matt and I are going to try to hit up the morning pool over in Eagan, where I have taught classes the last 3 summers. The have a lap swim, a water walking spot and a class that we might try. I just want to see what it feels like to be in the pool when I don't get worried when he engages my cervix! Tomorrow is also my 38 week appointment! Excited to just hear the heart beat and have my Doula meet Dr. H! Maybe also looking forward to trying out fun things to get labor started next week. Pineapple, RRL tea, who knows when he is going to come but it would be fun if I had some extra time with him before my first wedding back.
Best moment of the week: My last wedding was such a joy and hilarious as I got poured on at the end of the night. It was perfect way for me to leave and let my team finish the job as I was literally DRENCHED from head to toe! On Sunday we went to our Couples Birthing Intensive at Blooma and it was so great. Just to get our minds set and re-prepared for what is to come. Learned some new things, but had a great time just reviewing as well!
Verse that I am clinging to: I think I have two. First just praising the Lord for his faithfulness. 1st Chronicles 16:34 :: Give thanks to the LORD, for he is good! His faithful love endures forever!! and also 1st Chronicles 16:11 :: Search for the LORD and for his strength; continually seek him.
Photo: 

| Photo taken at 37 Weeks and 6 days |

36 Weeks

How big is baby: 36 Weeks | Honeydew (actually posting this post on 37 weeks +1, whoops lazy)
How I'm feeling: Oh man, the second photo tells it all. Just exhausted and blah. It took alot of effort to get this photo done this week. This week has been hard as I am moving slow and trying to do everything to get my work done AND equally rest for the weekend wedding! I can't believe it's here!! I definitely never thought I would say this, but I see how people get "done" with being pregnant. This week was just hard. Not fueling well, equals not feeling to hot. Today I feel quite a bit better, but not amazing. I just think my body is working hard for a million reasons right now. Just praying tomorrow's wedding goes well, last weeks went amazing! I felt really good and had such a great team that supported me. God has been giving us SO many little blessings!
Weight gain/loss: 53-60. This is kinda a guess. I have been avoiding the scale, cause it's a bit discouraging. This week wasn't good with food, not bad food or overeating, just too many GF products that seem to clog up my system and just really emotionally wreck me. *Update 6/14 got on the scale this am and was back at 53. Maybe the GF products really kicked out of my body...
Stretch marks: Definitely on both sides of the front of my belly. It's mirrored. Goofy that I got them on one side before the other.
Sleep: I feel like I could sleep for days. DAYS. Been so tired, yoga and barre were minimal this week. Still flipping and flopping a lot in the evening and getting up to go to the bathroom at least 4-5 times a night.
Diet/Cravings/Aversions: This week was terrible for eating. Tuesday and Wednesday I ate "terrible" for me. Lots of GF products and cashews cause making a meal seemed like too much work. It's nuts how MUCH specific food affects me. I immediately Wednesday night was feeling terrible, sad, depressed, bloated and just BLAH. How I used to feel so super often in life. Honestly I fully believe it was the "junk" that I was eating. Again, junk for me is healthy for others, but I have just learned that my body doesn't do well on too much sugar, starch or high glycemic foods. I have a baby growing that makes a bit of a difference but still nourishing with the RIGHT food matters. It's so not worth it for me cheat more than here or there.
Movement: He was quiet for monday after the big weekend of my first of the last two weddings, then he started up again late afternoon Monday. He was back to his old spot of head down, butt up and feet to the right of my belly looking down.
What I'm loving: My hair! My girl Lauren added some lowlights and then did a fun french braid that made me feel so not gross and huge. Also got my nails done this week, so fresh and so clean, clean.
Symptoms: Bloating, swelling, pelvic pain. Ear pressure and mucus in my head and such. Braxton Hicks.
What I'm looking forward to: Rocking tomorrow's wedding out and Sunday's birthing class with Bridget at Blooma! Then what will feel like freedom with only edits and emails to finish up. Excited to get in the pool, listen to hypno-birthing tracks, and all the stuff I have been avoiding for months to make it through this weekend!
Best moment of the week: Getting all of our registry goodies and packing them away! Feeling like we are set for this little guy to come! Bags are packed and I just need to run through the little cards I left in each one. Also, acupuncture this week to make my body feel stable and relaxed.
Verse that I am clinging to:  First I just need to say, THANK YOU JESUS. You are so good and I am so grateful for this gift and all the little ones you have bestowed on us these last couple of weeks. I just loved this verse that we talked about in Sunday's sermon. Just is clean and just so good to keep in front of me.  With promises like this to pull us on, dear friends, let’s make a clean break with everything that defiles or distracts us, both within and without. Let’s make our entire lives fit and holy temples for the worship of God. 2 Corinthians 7:1 MSG

I am also starting to look through these more often Labor Verses....Thank you Val Marie Paper.

Photo: 

            | Picture taken at 36 Weeks and 6 Days | 

35 Weeks

How big is baby: 35 Weeks | Coconut! Finally a fruit that is normal ;)
How I'm feeling: Pretty good this week! Definitely tired and having to do less here and there, but working to get it all done!! Matt was gone this weekend and with bad thunderstorms it made for an eventful weekend!
Weight gain/loss: 53-56. I feel like my body is slowing down growing but it might just be in my tummy? Who knows I was hoping to level off before 60, but my body is going to do it's thang.
Stretch marks: Yes on the right side of the front of my belly. The left side hasn't fully come through, but I am super "veiny" in my tummy. GOOFY!
Sleep: I have been going to bed late almost too late but sleeping really good the last two nights.

I often forget that I need load my body different and try to sit straight up and then my upper abs hurt for a bit. Definitely feel like I get stuck.
Diet/Cravings/Aversions: Grilled Shrimp, Turkey Sandwiches, Watermelon! Berries and goat cheese all good over here!
Movement: Yes! Almost always on the right side when I am looking down. I actually really enjoy the slithery movements. As I visualize him streching. Definitely have moments where I think he is bouncing on my bladder. Crazy feeling.
What I'm loving: That I am so close to being done with "work" I have 2 weddings and one session left! It feels like I am in school and the last day is coming!!
Symptoms: Less swelling than last week but it's still there. Walking is a little harder. Bending over harder. Needing to eat right away in the am because I think I am experiencing really mild heartburn/gargly.
What I'm looking forward to: Rocking out my wedding on Saturday. I have a great team and I am just praying this little guy stays comfy inside until after June 16th! Also purchasing the rest of our registry and getting all that we need.
Best moment of the week: Seeing our doula last week was so great and my friends shower this weekend was fabulous.
Verse that I am clinging to: Not neccesarily a verse but a quote from a devotional this week that god wastes nothing. Not our hardship or unlucky moments, he uses it all. We had some house stiff happen this week and we really has to wait on The Lord and the blessing he provided blew me away. Praise HIM and great is thy thankfulness! 

Advice to myself :: Cook up frozen meals for now G. It would be SO nice to have them currently! Like if you get a next time start meals in the 2nd trimester when your body has the energy to be on your feet more. Cause my mind wants to push but I will pay for it typically. Keep trusting in Jesus! He has this!!! Keep taking baths more, more read time and less phone time.
Photo: 
Oh man do I look tired! Keeping it real here!

35 Weeks Bare Belly

Bare belly at 35 weeks exactly in the nursery! Love the light in here!

34 Weeks

How big is baby: Week 34 | Butternut Squash
How I'm feeling: Alright! Tired forsure but also feeling prepared as my last couple of weddings are very close and I am super excited about them. Just two shoots and two weddings left and then this little dude can come whenever he wants! I almost feel like I am in school again and just waiting till June 19th when my out of office is going up. SO a tad bit freaked, but mostly excited it's all coming up so soon!!!! Definitely getting more swollen in my legs, but it is minimal if I walk early in the day and then put my feet up!!! It's just so weird to feel like sausage legs...
Weight gain/loss: 53-55 I think. My body just is holding on to more weight and definitely more swollen in my feets. I tried hard this week by upping my walks to everyday and no peanut butter but it seems like I am gaining consistently about 2-3 pounds a week. I am still feeling good, just expected it to slow down a bit.
Stretch marks: Yep! On the Left side of my tummy and the two are kinda growing. Today I thought I saw the mirror set on the other side but kind of went away after lotion.
Sleep: Doing pretty good. I toss often at night. Last night I had dreams that I was having contractions EVERY time I fell back asleep. Like I was in a contraction and wasn't dealing with it well. It was SO frustrating. I wasn't experiencing pain at all or cramping but woke up feeling like I failed at something. SO weird.
Diet/Cravings/Aversions: Grilled Shrimp was amazing this weekend, and still loving the chocolate chips. Also loving strawberries, blueberries, walnuts and goat cheese as a snack. Fresh cucumbers and watermelon also good.
Movement: Yep! At his own times of course but anytime I have been nervous I will sit down for the 5 in a hour 10 in two hour counts and he does well. Last appointment he was still head down, shoulders to the left, butt and feet to the right. Praying he stays that way.
What I'm loving: That all my Blooma momma friends are having babies, two actually yesterday. It's crazy to think that we are that close! Yet maybe far too with 5 weeks left! It's been such a joy to attend yoga and barre at a place that just loves Mommas and get's so excited about births!
Symptoms: My smelling sensation has gone crazy! I can smell EVERYTHING, which is good and bad. Ha. Going to the bathroom often. Pelvic pain. Swelling feet. Hips that hurt at night. Also last week was the first week I am starting to do less at Yoga and Barre. My body is just saying take it slow and that is totally good and great. Oh ps up another size in BIG undies size 10 this week, they are getting harder to find.
What I'm looking forward to: I have a friends shower, my last shower this weekend! So excited to see all those ladies and also to then close out the registries and have all that we need!!!
Best moment of the week: Finishing all the Thank You's that I have been working on for months. Cleaning and organizing the nursery. Really getting the drawers ready and things washed and making sure I have enough of "certain" things before we purchase out the end of the registries! I also scored a Mamaroo last week and I am so excited about it! We did a lot over the holiday weekend and still felt rested. It was greatness. 
Verse that I am clinging to:  Philippians 4:6 | Don’t worry about anything; instead, pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank him for all he has done. 7 Then you will experience God’s peace, which exceeds anything we can understand. His peace will guard your hearts and minds as you live in Christ Jesus.
I posted this on instagram last night as I could worry about SO MUCH RIGHT NOW. But why? I just need to PRAY about it instead and remind myself that God is in control and not me. He has the perfect plans.
Advice to myself :: G, God has this. Stop worrying. Pray more, keep asking for what birth you would like and then continue to surrender it All. Take your naps. PUT YOUR FEET UP (especially early in the day, like let them drain for 20-30 against the wall it super helps) It will get done. How huge of a blessing that you are HERE. 35 weeks today. What a amazing gift today is. Stay in that and the moments will fly by! Get out early in the am to walk as it's getting hotter and GO TO BED EARLIER!
Photo: 

 

Whoopsies, took these on 35 Weeks exact, but you get the drift ;)

33 Weeks

How big is baby:  Week 33 | Durian Fruit
How I'm feeling: Well honestly I would say week 33 was the hardest so far. Up until now I have had harder or scarier days but this was the first week things got harder physically. I just have been really really tired, this little dude must of had a HUGE growth spurt this week. Shooting kids is pretty rough right now as the up and down and chasing is harder than I thought. Shooting couples and weddings are a lot simpler compared to littles. I don't typically have to chase, bend, grab, scream, dance and chase adults as I do with kiddos. I have noticed how much I actually do bend over everyday. It's tricky when there is not room!
Weight gain/loss: Feeling HUGE. Belly button almost popped somedays. Hit 50 today. I wonder if I would have been running/working out hard prior to getting pregnant if my weight gain would have been a bit different. But truthfully I have eaten really clean and worked out a ton (just non hard cardio) and that's all I can do. I just am going to choose to be grateful that my body is making a human. It's so weird how once you hit another weight number (30,40,50) the fears come and try to settle in. But for me this is another lesson of surrender. My body is shared with someone else and their needs right now. I just need to trust Jesus and His plan.
Stretch marks: Found my first two this week. AHH! It's alright as I thought I might get them as I had them growing up on my back. I hadn't been good about lotion-ing religiously, so I am starting now again to hopefully prevent more.
Sleep:  Reasonable. Trying to nap more during the days. I was SO tired this last week. Crazy tired. Getting out of the bed is the hardest.
Diet/Cravings/Aversions: Had hunger that never stopped it felt like. Chicken Salad still a winner, some chocolate, other than that not too much. I had 3 small laffy taffy's on the ride home from Wausau this weekend, perfect little cheat. I had way too many GF items over the weekend. They just make me feel like CRAP. No more.
Movement: Yes, again at his own times. Morning btw 5:30-8:00 or after I eat, then pretty quiet till early evening 6-8 and then crazy from 8:30-12:00pm. He might have turned posterior in the last week or so? We will see what the doc says, I just can't seem to feel his hard back like usual just little appendages.
What I'm loving: Feeling halfway normal today. Since the weekend was so busy so grateful to wake up on Tuesday with no pelvic pain. I had a great Monday of a private barre session and yoga and naps.
Symptoms: Crazy CRAZY pelvic pain. Increased pressure on cervix. (Not my favorite) Exhaustion. Feeling down. Harder to move. Gas pain that feels like "contractions" seriously super weird. Needing to not wear certain pants as they are too tight!
What I'm looking forward to:  Seeing my new physician again tomorrow and having a trillion questions to ask. I can't wait to knock down some of the BIG ones I have. Hopefully my body recalibrates to this last growth spurt and will start to feel super great again! Yesterday I ran to target and got the final workings of my postnatal things and hospital bag, from all the suggestions on facebook and friends! It felt so good to finish. I love walking through a new and quiet target in the am!! Also, blowing up my stability ball to work on. Sitting in general has become alot harder with pelvic pain.
Best moment of the week:  Nerdy but my new pjs! Our shower in Wausau was fun to see family and friends. I wasn't feeling well most of the weekend so I would say another would be waking up Tuesday morning without most of the pain!

Advice for myself: Gina if you do ever get to experience this awesome gift again. Use these next weeks to rest. Schedule less and know this is where the going gets a bit more rough. Schedule a prenatal massage or two for 32/33 weeks. Go outside and breathe. It's ok to ask for help. It's ok to say no to the dog that always sleeps on top you. Also, remember you are carrying a miracle a gift you waited for and that is way more important and awesome than you right now. Care for you, but also know this is the end of the road and let that baby grow! Also start wearing a maternity belt around 31 during house chores and shoots? I am trying one now and it will hopefully help the pelvic pain.
Verse that I am clinging to: Give all your worries and cares to God, for he cares about what happens to you." (1 Peter 5:7, NLT) | like I mentioned earlier I really am in a place of needing to constantly surrender to Him. To lay out all my fears, hopes, physical ailments and just talk to Him like he is my dad. Sharing the good and the bad. Praising in the hard and the blessing. I am sure there will be more ahead, but just praising God that there is a baby in my belly. That my friends is a miracle!!!
Photo: this dress is totally navy in color just looks black due to the crazy lighting in the nursery. Only 7-8 pictures left!?!?!?

32 Weeks

How big is baby:  32 weeks | Squash
How I'm feeling: Holy tired! This week has been full of super tired and I have been starting to be super stiff. I need to start going to bed a bit earlier! I did do a lot of back to back shooting last weekend, but yet I think little man is just growing this week. Praying hard this body continues to hold up.
Weight gain/loss: 47 pounds. Almost to 50! I feel like that girl on SNL saying I'm 50!! :) Definitely it seems like it's all in my legs and booty. But hey, if it supports this belly than I am ok with it.
Stretch marks: None, I see yet. We will see if they stay away.
Sleep: Is going alright. Having very terrible and vivid dreams so it's hard to sleep because of them. Also I had the BEST nap of my life on Mother's Day. With literally 7 pillows, now that I sleep with nightly. A little less hip pain this week.
Diet/Cravings/Aversions: OMG. Chicken salad! Jenna made some for my bible study shower last week and have been craving it ever since! The beets and salad less this week but for sure have made that chicken salad 3 times this week! Also, chocolate chips as usual.
Movement: Tons! Not always when I stand up but it's so fun and just makes me feel so lucky to be pregnant when I can feel a little person in there. Can definitely feel more of where he is. This action really has only been since week 31 I think.
What I'm loving: That's it's already 33 weeks today! It's gone by so fast. I am so excited to finish up my last weddings and then meet this little man. It's just exciting it's really getting closer.
Symptoms: Exhaustion. Hip pain. No energy.
What I'm looking forward to: We have another shower this weekend and just really excited to see everyone. Also to meet with our new doc again next week and ask a bunch of questions about what is upcoming. What if's and such. I am working hard to get my hospital bags packed soon too. I just want to get as much done by June 1st, so it can be a relaxing month.
Best moment of the week: My shower last week with the bible study girls was absolutely delightful. Tea, cookies and just a fun and gorgeous time!! It was such a blessing! We also had a breast feeding class that I really enjoyed this week.

Advice to myself: Adding this one to the mix this week. If I was ever blessed to be pregnant again, it would probably good to read through my own advice as I am asking SO many momma things around these weeks.  Gina be efficient with you days in term of doing and resting. Don't waste time in the morning being unproductive. So that you don't have to feel guilty about taking an afternoon nap or 3. Take baths. Cuddle Mya and actually rest or read. No phone. You only have 7weeks left of this gift that you might not ever get to experience again. Soak it in. Also continue to trust Jesus in his plan for baby z's arrival. He has it. Keep praying for what you hope but give it all to Him.
Verse that I am clinging to: 
Verses that just remind me that God HAS this! He is in control!!! Learning to believe how BIG his LOVE and plans are and that I need to stay and be in them.

Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go Joshua 1:9 

And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose. Romans 8:28 
Photo: 

31 Weeks

How big is baby: 31 Weeks | Pineapple
How I'm feeling: Crazy 32 weeks tomorrow! Pretty good. More pressure and pelvic stuff, but seems he is sitting higher and stretching the top of my belly. Definitely way more tired than last week, and just trying to rest up.
Weight gain/loss: 43.5 pounds.
Stretch marks: None that I see yet. The belly button is getting close to popping though.
Sleep: Definitely getting harder. I need to start rolling out before bed as I am getting bad hip cramps in the middle of the night. Weird scary dreams too.
Diet/Cravings/Aversions: Craving fresh food. Kale, Beets and Feta or Goat Cheese. We actually ended up making Gluten Free and Sugar Free donuts last week at night and they were AMAZING sauce. Recipe Here.
Movement: Finally starting to feel him a bit when I stand up. Mostly at night. His awake time are in the am 7-9am after eating and then later night like 6-9 and 11-1am.
What I'm loving: A pretty much FINISHED nursery! As far as decor wise, I think we are just missing a lamp! AHH it looks awesome. I think I am posting a sneak tomorrow for y'all! Saving the good big stuff for our actual newborn session later, but have some that will give you the feel of the space.
Symptoms: Starting to swell more at night and my legs are just getting bigger. Tired. TIRED. This week. Last week had SO much energy but this week no way! Hungry for chocolate.
What I'm looking forward to: Tomorrow I have an appointment that I am pretty pumped about. Also I have my bible study girls shower. I am so excited to have a girls night with them. This week is Leah's gender reveal as well, so excited to see who they are adding to their family a little boy or girl.
Best moment of the week: It was really fun to have our first shower and see many family friends I haven't seen in awhile. My mom and sister did a really amazing job and it looked gorgeous! The GF glazed donuts weren't that amazing from the bakery, but their chocolate kind was super good. Blooma Barre was amazing today! I just love my teacher Julie she rocks IT! Also, my chiropractor taped my back last week and it really helped!!!
Verse that I am clinging to: Ephesians 5:15 | Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise.  I just need to continue to keep Jesus as my focus. My first thought in the morning and not just zipping into my day and saying I will do devotions later. So, I just need to manage my time better with the Lord and set my heart and soul from the START of the day!
Photo: 

 

          | Photo taken at 31 Weeks and 6 days | 

30 Weeks

How big is baby: 30 Weeks | Cucumber (photo taken on day 1 of 31 weeks) whoops :)
How I'm feeling: Pretty good. More tired but have had the huge energy rush to get stuff done. Everything done. My bank acct doesn't love it, but really can't wait to have most of the rooms "finished" for now. Been staying up WAY too late. Taking a nap if I can during the day.
Weight gain/loss: 42-44
Stretch marks: None I can see yet, Peeking around for them though.
Sleep: A little bit better than last week. I think cause I am exhausted once I finally sleep at like 2am. Still get my BEST rest at the end of Yoga.
Diet/Cravings/Aversions: All this girl wants is a gluten free glazed donut and my mom is having a bakery make them for my shower this weekend. I am PUMPED about it. Other than that, this week's food tastes are down besides craving beets, goat cheese and kale. I have to figure out HOW to make beets before the ones I have go bad!
Movement: Yes, he is in there. Still wondering WHERE He is or positioned but this week felt my first elbow or foot maybe, more of a smaller part. Kinda fun.
What I'm loving: Getting the nursery close to done! The prints for the walls are coming in and it's really coming together. Also just finishing the basement up a little too! It isn't perfect but good! LOVE my dear friend Anne who is so incredibly gifted at helping!!!
Symptoms: Hip pain, Pelvic pain, starting to get uncomfortable sitting and working on a laptop is tricky.
What I'm looking forward to: Pretty excited about my first shower this weekend, and like I said that donut. :)
Best moment of the week: Scoring some dressers for our room for $35 total at an awesome thrift store. They will need a little finishing but they are beauts! Also, teaching a class over at influence this week was pretty awesome. I felt SO incapable, but the Lord worked and I think the group got a lot out of it! Feeling grateful! Today was my first day to Yoga, but did walk on the treadmill. Sunday, Monday, Tuesday as well as did the Blooma Yoga tape at home. I am SO a go to class not a video at home girl. I just love the interaction!
Verse that I am clinging to:  2 Corinthians 4:7 ::  But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us. I just love this verse. Jason Meyer has talked about, and I found in my bible from last September. We show our cracks to show Christ! Just powerful to me, meaning we weren't made to have it all together! We need Christ!!!
Photo:

30 Weeks Today

30 weeks Bare Belly Party! I just love these Poloroids that I have taken every couple of weeks. We keep them on the fridge! :)

29 Weeks

How big is baby:  29 Weeks | An Acorn Squash (what the heck is that, here I googled it for you)
How I'm feeling:  Pretty good! Last week was such a crazy week. I only got to attend one Yoga class and this girl felt it. I guess I assumed that I was just feeling good naturally, but I really think my classes have been preventing pelvic pain ALOT. I was pretty uncomfortable late last week but feeling great this week after a couple prenatal and barre classes already!
Weight gain/loss:  37-40. Yes, hit another big number this week. Just trying to take it with stride and going to start adding about 20-30 minutes of walking a day in. Along with with my yoga and barre. At least try to do the cardio 4 days a week!
Stretch marks:  None I see yet. Definitely more "veiny"
Sleep: Alright. Continuing Pancake-ville. Some nights are better than others, but pretty much always up and going by 7:30 these days. It's so odd to want to get up cause you are sore. I also am dealing with some swelling of my hands in the early am. I must be grabbing my pillow a lot.
Diet/Cravings/Aversions: CHOCOLATE. I must need some more magnesium in my body. Lindt Chocolates the blue kind are kind of irresistible to me. I need to definitely not buy anymore for the house as I like them a bit too much. That is the only thing I really feel guilty for having more of lately. The worst of it is that peanut butter and banana with dark chocolate chips, but I think that is pretty good instead of getting a blizzard or hot tamales or something. The 60% Ghirardelli, 60% Bittersweet Chocolate Chips are perfect! I always keep Choco in the freezer so I have to eat it slower! Another favorite right now is BEETS and goat cheese! AHH so nummy! I also had some Kale Salad with Lemon and Oil from Kowalski's yesterday and it was delightful. Still in LOVE with Pink Lady Apples. Less on the Pears this week.
Movement: Of course last week after I posted how moving around he was he had a super quiet day. I almost called the doctor but the next morning he was ok. My ob said to call next time and not wait. Since then some big flips these days and more movement. Definitely has his quiet times too which is sometimes hard. But he seems to like early morning 6-8am, then is quiet for awhile and like 6-8pm and 10-12pm. I want to start tracking his "active" times more.
What I'm loving: Being back at Blooma more, it just really helps me mentally and physically know I can do it! Also, this week I only had one photo shoot and the last three have been really busy with stuff so grateful to have a prep week with only a couple of mentor sessions to get ready for our busy May ahead.
Symptoms: Swelling in hands in the morning. Achy hips during sleep. Achy ribs. Hungry and Thirsty often. OOOO and last week got my first Leg cramp! OUCH! I was thankful it was in my shin instead of my calf, but it still got me up at 3:30am walking around the living room. My Pelvic pain was terrible on Thursday and Friday. Literally ICED my crotch because it hurt so bad on Friday. Helped a ton. It did lessen over the weekend, so again going to keep being a nazi about attending Yoga and Barre. Also currently sitting on a pillow on a chair, as my couple of desk chairs are hard.
What I'm looking forward to: Tomorrow is 30 Weeks! I am so excited to have a slow Saturday ahead. Every weekend through May 1st-June 15th are full coming up, so I am excited to have a slow day just resting and hanging with Matt hopefully if he doesn't have too much grad school homework.
Best moment of the week: This week definitely was the best because of two of the sweetest PAST clients!!! First I dropped off my Dec 2012 couples wedding album that turned out beautifully and stopped in and got a tour of their amazing condo that they completely refinished. But of course Rachelle BLEW me away with having my favorite Lindt Chocolates and cut up Pink Lady apples for all of us to snack on while I was there. I about cried I was so grateful! Honestly the SWEETEST. Then I got a package in the mail from one of my past clients who I hired to make some changing pad covers for our nursery. Miss Crystal had made a wet bag randomly, something that I had been meaning to buy with my fabric and it's just PERFECT. Seriously about started bawling....must be emotional stage for me, but just overwhelmed by the GOODNESS of others. I owe so many of you thank you cards! They are on my to-do! Also, Baby Z got his first camera from one of my winter couples this year. It is the CUTEST!
Verse that I am clinging to:  Ephesians 5:15 : Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise. I think it's so easy each morning to forget WHERE and WHO my identity is based in. I often drift into the day's activities before my quiet time and EVERYTIME I fall into my flesh trap. I just need to continue to MAKE HIM first and really live my life like the Lord is who I based my identity in!
Photo: 

   | I might share my Bare Belly polaroid tomorrow!!! | 29 Weeks and 6 days |

28 Weeks

How big is baby: Week 28 | Eggplant
How I'm feeling:  Grateful for this time of being pregnant, so grateful. Definitely had my first two big pregnant cries this last week over things that I couldn't really control. I am not usually a cryer, but definitely experienced the feeling of crying over nothing. The first one was a July Moms online board that I was posting and participating on, that thought I was a self promoting/selfish when I posted my weekly photo. The board was upset I wasn't loving on others or participating as much, but like it was in high school it's just hard to see people talking about you in a negative way when you never meant to come off that way. I barely was able to be on the boards 5-10 minutes a day with work so I couldn't keep up much or post as much as I guess others want you too. So I've decided the board is not for me. Great community and info there, that many of my friends love, but the amount I cried my face off last week after reading words about me from people I never met, just makes me realize for my heart it something I need to back away from and fill with other community. Like the amazing people at Blooma. Girls that I see each week face to face. The second thing was our crazy adventures of how we got our van. Read below in the best moment of the week look for the **.
Weight gain/loss: 32-35. Passed my GD test with flying colors, I was super excited about this!! :) Praise Jesus!
Stretch marks: None I see yet.
Sleep: Reasonable, I do get up many times a night but don't feel the "normal I don't want to wake up crabby feeling" if that makes sense? My hips hurt quite a bit so I have to flip sides a lot.
Diet/Cravings/Aversions: Lindt Chocolates. The blue ones. Can't stop. And this week definitely more Pink Lady apples than pears and salads and odd but Jimmy Johns Unwich.
Movement: Praise The Lord for this! I am finally feeling pretty consistent movement and it's so cool to see my belly move from the outside. It's definitely such a blessing and I think I will super miss it when he is born.
What I'm loving:  Movement (see above) and also some shower gifts from those who can't attend are arriving at the house as well as nursery items. It's just getting more real!!
Symptoms: Top of stomach ache and stretching. Bloating and stress (this week was kinda rough) I tweaked my neck pretty bad last friday (I think it had something to-do with getting my Tdap and then going to a workout class after) so I hadn't worked out for about 5 days. So excited to get a walk or two and getting back to all my normal Blooma Classes. Definitely feeling "bigger" this week, which is so crazy cause last week I felt so small. I know I sound stupid talking about this, but I want to remember the weeks as if we get blessed with another pregnancy someday, maybe my body will do the same weekly things?
What I'm looking forward to: Continuing to set up the nursery and getting the dresser built. (It was finally in stock and I got the last one!!!) Also, the weather getting warmer and going on more walks outside.
Best moment of the week: Getting a van!!! Whoop! It definitely was the best deal we had seen out there with one owner, low miles and taken care of really well.

A bit of fiasco going to get it.....here's the short version. We found the car listing on late Saturday night and called to go up 3 hours away to look at the van. So we drove up with my parents to see it. It was a great one! Low Miles, One owner and just in really great shape! It was ours and we were going to drive back up in the week to transfer title and official pick up the van. On the way home while all four of us adults were in my parents car, we ended up hitting a trailer hitch that was in the middle of the road and was unavoidable. It made a huge noise and as we pulled over realized it had punctured the gas tank and was dragging with us. As we looked underneath, gas was POURING out of the car, so we quickly got out and walked to the next rest stop. We were very lucky the sparks and the gas didn't blow up the car! So we sat in the rest stop restaurant for a couple hours as my sister and husband came to get us and then a couple hours home. It was also a blessing to have a repair shop open on a Sunday and picked up and towed the car to be fixed locally.

So we get home that night all exhausted! We gear up to go get the van a couple of days later and also pick up my dad's fixed car. I stay at my parents house about an hour north to get a head start in the am. We left the house around 6:45am after a rough night sleep for me, we set off north! We got the van, cleared the title and hit up lunch. Then proceeded to make our trip back with all three cars in tow. We got about an hour till I saw from behind that something underneath my dad's car had fallen off and was dragging. I was so freaked it was the gas tank again, I was flailing my arms, beeping my horn and trying to get his attention to pull over. Luckily it was only the muffler, but such a pain after the car had just been fixed. My dad macgyver'd it up with some wire and we kept on our journey. We continued our drive as my mother drove my car behind me all the way to our house. When we finally arrived around 4pm that day. I realized that I was missing something.........my wallet.

The last place I had it? At gas station 2 hrs back up north. I frantically google the number for the gas station and PRAISE THE LORD. Confirmed that they had it and got back in the car. BAWLING my eyes out about having to add another 4 hours in the car. ** This is where I experienced my second HUGE pregnant girl cry. I was just so upset that I had forgotten it and that it was such an extra haul to go get. But my mom, bless her heart drove most of the way, encouraged me to rest and we got it (with everything in it, again Praise) I was home by 9:30pm. 6:50am-9:30pm, pretty much in a car driving continuously. OOOFFDA. Like I said it was an CRAZY adventure to get this sweet van.

Verse that I am clinging to:  "Cast your burden on the Lord, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved." (Psalm 55:22 ESV) & Psalms 86:15 “But you, O Lord, are a God merciful and gracious, slow to anger and abounding in steadfast love and faithfulness.”

In all the hard circumstances and stressful situations I just felt the Lord's presence as we prayed when we didn't understand why my parents car broke down or why the ladies talking about me really hurt my feelings. I just have felt such a strong amount of gratitude for blessings in our lives, even the little things like my dresser being in stock, I just thank the Lord for as He is the giver of all good things.

Photo: 

27 Weeks

How big is baby: 27 Weeks | Cucumber (these are so weird, week to week, I feel like they get small and big)
How I'm feeling:  Honestly most of this week has been really great. I spent a good chunk of it in North Carolina and it was great. Tiring and super busy but great. I felt like I nourished really well last week and my body really feels good. I think I had a good amount of swelling that has gone done since I returned home but all the sudden from feeling huge, I am feeling quite small which is SO incredibly weird. Also, started listening to the Hypnobabies tracks and reading some of the info. Not sure what I will do with it yet. If anything the tracks are helping me relax and sleep :)
Weight gain/loss:  30-33. Weighed myself when I came home and was under by .5 from when I left which was encouraging. This morning was up 3 more, I think my barre class and pushups are building some muscle!
Stretch marks:  None I see yet. Need to lotion more!
Sleep: Definitely getting less and flipping more often (Pancake Sleep is what I call it) Taking more naps as I can. Also, the last couple of nights waking around the 3-5am hour and starting to get hungry again.
Diet/Cravings/Aversions: Chocolate! Lindt especially, goodness/gracious. Pears and broccoli. Odd things but OH so good. I had a beet salad last night that was delicious. I did a pretty good job of eating whole food while I was traveling and it just really reset my body. I definitely think I am doing that at home. I just ate more Salads at night (out to eat, a bit more simple to do so) and was just really happy with how I felt.
Movement: SO off and on. This is the part that has been worrying me the most. It's SO different that what I feel most pregnant moms describe. They talk about the baby active as every kicking a storm and it being uncomfortable and it's just not that way for me right now. I am just trying really hard by lifting the worry up in prayer, but it's hard. Feeling the little man more today which I am grateful for.
What I'm loving: It's the 3rd TRI! I can't believe it already, but grateful that we have made it that far. I also am slightly obsessed with the maternity photos we took on the beach in North Carolina. It was crazy stressful to actually take them (4hr drive, longer than we thought, short time on the beach, hair all caput.) But SO grateful we did go even if it was exhausting.
Symptoms:  This week my body seems to have normalized my crazy last couple of weeks weight gain, so odd to be feeling small? A little heartburn. LOTS of rib pain in the back, not sure if that is caused by the bra issue. (none of the Amazon ones fit, ordered some more this week, as I returned the others) HOT, being so much warmer!!! Especially in North Carolina, I am a little worried at how warm I am going to get this summer. I was literally trying to cool myself down with frozen veggie packs at Mackenzie's house this last week. Also, lastly exhausted again. Needing naps.
What I'm looking forward to:  Being done with my GD test this Friday. I just have no idea what to expect here as I don't ingest much sugar at all besides a banana and chocolate chips. So I just am hoping the syrup doesn't throw my body into crazy shock or itchy-ness. Hearing the heartbeat on Friday will be awesome too. I think I get two shots this week, so just being done with those!
Best moment of the week:  Getting back to Yoga and Barre at Blooma after a week of being gone. My body just feels so much less sore and tight when I am doing these classes. GRATEFUL for them. Also, seeing my teachers and classmates, its so fun to get to know other mommas!Also walking outside has been super amazingly great!
Verse that I am clinging to:  And which of you by being anxious can add a single hour to his span of life? Matthew 6:27. WORD. This has been what I have been holding onto. It seems like I can worry about ANYTHING. It just was odd that on Sunday I felt so small (as in my belly) I just started to fear something was wrong. I wasn't really feeling him much the early part of this week, so really trying to separate worry, anxiety and intution. I have an appt this friday to make sure heartbeat is good and such, but it's just hard sometimes to not let your mind go 0-60 about worry. So just holding onto this verse and giving it all up to JESUS. Asking Him to take away the worry and just bring to mind something or worry if I need to address it. It's all about surrender. Just hoping and praying they are thriving and safe in there.
Photo: Love these Old Navy tanks! They are SO comfy!

26 Weeks

How big is baby: 26 | Weeks
How I'm feeling: Definitely more tired this last week, odd as I haven't been much in the last months. Need to get to bed earlier. Especially as I am posting this at 2:19am. Whoops!
Weight gain/loss: 30.5. The doctor was fine. Everything checked out fine as far as labs go, but the doctor wasn't too reassuring or encouraging about my weight. So I am just going to try to continue to work out and eat as clean as I can! That's all I can do and it's not worth worrying about if my labs, bp are all coming back fine.
Stretch marks: None I see yet.
Sleep: Waking up to toss and turn about every hour. Feeling like I am still getting reasonable sleep.
Diet/Cravings/Aversions: Pink Lady Apples and dark berries.
Movement: Definitely more movement more often. Lighter it seems, but he is staying nice and high near my bellybutton during the day.
What I'm loving: Just being grateful that I am pregnant. Yes, things are getting bigger and different but I am grateful. Excited what the Lord has in store for us for a vehicle as we almost snagged a van (new to us) for all cash. It was a great deal, but just excited that we are ready to buy another car. Just praying the right on comes for us to grab as we have been out bid on the last two ones we were interested in.
Symptoms: Ribcage & Chest growth. Exhausted. Just getting bigger. Out and up to another Bra size and for lack of better words up in underwear to. I thought I was on top of things with a recent order to get the next band up for my bras, but I jumped again. I have definitely seen a gain in my chest and noticed a bit in my arms this week. Hoping the ones I shipped to North Carolina will fit! I definitely get the most discouraged about my body when I don't have a bra that fits. Starting at a 34FF and now not fitting into 36G. I am a little afraid of where this is going to go post milk coming in. But the bright side is I have found places to get larger bras besides spending $70 at Nordstrom every couple of months. Today I bought underwear package, I honestly don't think I have had Hanes in a package underwear since I was around the age of 6 and they were probably little mermaid kind. HA! Oh the joys!
What I'm looking forward to: BREATHING IN THE BEACH. I am reading Ina May's Childbirth book currently and going through all the birthing stories. I just love how they use token words like "rush" instead of contractions and SO SO SO many women spoke of thinking of them as ocean waves. So honestly I am excited to hear them, see them and walk in them (even if they are freezing) I just want to visualize as much as I can. Also, just walking outside. It is glorious.
Best moment of the week: Finishing our registry finally. It was a bit stressful and I am sure I am missing stuff, but it is done! It's so tough these days when Target doesn't have as wide a selection and with the Wausau folks with no Babies r Us. We went for Amazon! I just love Amazon and you do get a 10 or 15% to close out your registry at the end, so at least we can get discounts, even if minimal people purchase there.
Verse that I am clinging to: Psalm 73:26 | My flesh and my heart may fail, but God is the strength of my heart and my portion forever. I have been SUPER tired this week. Just leaning into GOD'S strength and power.
Photo: Shot Maternity photos with Mackenzie tonight and will share more photos and talk all about my NC trip in the next post!

25 Weeks

How big is baby: 25 Weeks | Eggplant
How I'm feeling: A little bit of of everything. Discouraged that despite my efforts of eating like I normally do. Completely gluten free and 95% sugar free, and hitting the gym, yoga, barre often that I am rapidly gaining weight. Not just normal numbers, but big ones. Not as much am I sad about the weight gain and my body image (which isn't a fun) I just want to be best prepared physically for my work in June and being active and mobile. Which I know should be fine if I just keep moving. I am just trying not to get in a stage where I "limit" or have to try really hard to watch what I am eating. I just wanted to be free of that in my pregnancy. Also free of having to workout obsessively. That I can only do a Yoga class and feel like that is enough somedays. I have struggled so much of my life with food and my body, I just really would love to keep that relationship healthy as I feel like the Lord has healed it pre-pregnancy. Again, not complaining if it is normal for me and my pregnancies, but just making sure there is nothing I can do to help control it more that I am.
Weight gain/loss: 25-28.5 pds. It has been really crazy off the charts up and down and has been a little scary this past week. I will be heading to the doctor on Thursday to triple check all is well before travel to North Carolina. I am just a little worried as I do feel like I eat really well and clean and I exercise at least 4-6 days a week.
Stretch marks: None I see yet.
Sleep: Actually sleeping really well this week, figuring out the right pillow between the legs is the best! My favorite is actually Savasana at the end of my classes at Blooma. Honestly I feel like I could sleep for hours even though I think it's about 3-5 minutes.
Diet/Cravings/Aversions: I want sugar everything. Especially when trying to watch things more this week to try to slow down my gains. Still having minimal things, but my body is craving. PB and Banana with dark choco chips and Paleo Muffins Chocolate Chips.
Movement: Lots of movement, but it's light and it's higher or mid belly.
What I'm loving: I was able to elliptical and swim this week and been doing YOGA! Feeling grateful!
Symptoms: Bloating. Discouragement about weight. Ribs aching and growing another bra size.
What I'm looking forward to: Getting some fabric in the mail from Etsy for the nursery.
Best moment of the week: Today I got my hair done for the first time in 8 weeks (4 weeks overdue) and my nails done in preparation for some photos next week hopefully on the beach. I rented two rent the runway dresses and hopefully they will fit ;)
Verse that I am clinging to: Psalm 139:2 You know when I sit down and when I rise up; you discern my thoughts from afar. Felt like I need to pray it out. Lord God, you know my heart and you know my body that is growing this little guy. Will you keep my thoughts focused on you and not on the million and one things I can be doing wrong? Help me to get clarity around the weight gain and just be able to feel happy and confident. I need you Lord. Every hour I need you. Thank you for this crazy beautiful gift. For your sovereignty in our lives for so many amazing blessings. Thank you AMEN>
Photo:

  | 25 Weeks 5 Days |

24 Weeks

How big is baby: 24 Weeks | Cantaloupe
How I'm feeling: Pretty great. No crazy pressure and have really enjoyed my Prenatal Yoga and Barre at Blooma. Still hoping to try out the elliptical at the gym, but haven't yet. Also, shot another wedding this Saturday and it felt pretty great. Had tons of stairs to walk up and down and was grateful for breaks. Wasn't too sore the next day and that was great!!
Weight gain/loss: 22-24 pounds. Hoping to keep this steady and hopefully under 25-30 until 28 weeks. I know that might be pipe dream, but hoping. Definitely not super cutting back on eating as long as it's clean. Definitely feel like my chest is growing again, think I'll have to buy another bra up in the width.
Stretch marks: None I see yet.
Sleep: Better than last definitely as sleeping with a pillow between my legs has been super. I definitely am getting up somewhere between 3am and 5am wide awake. I can usually get back to sleep, yet then I have really violent or vivid dreams. I wonder what the little man is doing at that time that might be influencing.
Diet/Cravings/Aversions: Had a major cheat at the wedding and had milk duds for the first time time in I can't remember how long. They were amazing. Still digging the Cauliflower crust, Almond Paleo Chicken Strips and Chocolate Chip Paleo muffins. We are rocking at home meals now and I am so happy and proud of this.
Movement: This week was a little less. I don't know if it was busy or if he has found a new spot where I can't feel him as much. He definitely is most active btw 5-7pm.
What I'm loving: Getting some house stuff finished. Anne came over last week and instead of really knocking out a lot of the nursery we focused on our basement bedroom. A room that we moved into the night before we found out we were pregnant and it's been super bare since then. So just getting it all set or at least a little more put together before baby comes is exciting.
Symptoms: Swelling after being on my feet for awhile. Goofy Hip pain. Chest feeling big.
What I'm looking forward to: MTH is coming up soon and being in the third trimester :) More of Blooma too, it's so fun to try to get there regularly.
Best moment of the week: We got our nursery chair in an awesome sale last week. We aren't sure that we absolutely love it but excited that we can just return to a target if it's not the one. We were really wavering on which type to purchase and this is really the last "big" piece of the room to be done. We should have it next week :)
Verse that I am clinging to: 
The Lord is near to the brokenhearted and saves the crushed in spirit. Many are the afflictions of the righteous, but the Lord delivers him out of them all. Psalm 34:18-19 (ESV) My heart has just been crazy heavy for those that still are waiting on babies, that have lost babies recently. I just want each and everyone to have their sweet babies in their arms and there to be NO MORE hurt or pain, but not till heaven. Will y'all just lift up those that are hurting and can't pray for themselves? Jesus is stronger and bigger even if we don't understand at the time.
Photo: A couple different looks as the outfit I wore today wasn't as belly showing. Can't believe how flat part of my belly is. Funny looking ;)

| 24 Weeks and 5 Days |

23 Weeks

How big is baby: 23 Weeks | Grapefruit
How I'm feeling: Great. This last week was super awesome. Primarily cause of Blooma Yoga and Barre. Sunday I started to feel like bronchitis or something that Matt had all week was coming my way, so I rested most of the day and Monday. While shooting Apple Cider Vinegar to keep the crap away. Feeling pretty good today.
Weight gain/loss: 21-22. Feeling pretty good that since I have gotten back from Mexico (week 20) that I have only gained about 3.5-4.5 in 4 weeks. Have my 24 week appt this week so we will see what they say.
Stretch marks: None yet. I asked my Mom today and she said she doesn't think she did. Plus. Yet I have a ton on my back from when I grew super fast in middle school.  So maybe I will get them anyways.
Sleep: Reasonable. I do wake often to reposition or just cause I am awake. Still feel rested most mornings if I get to bed on time (10ish). Had a couple of late nights this week and definitely paid for it.
Diet/Cravings/Aversions: Fruit. Strawberries and Blueberries. Chocolate definitely also. Made the MOST AMAZING gluten free, low sugar & carb pizza last night. Freaking out about how nummy it was and made my second one today!!! Also made some amazing Paleo Choco Chip muffins last night too!
Movement: Yep! Usually once a day at least varying on time. It's hard not to get worried sometimes if I don't feel him right away in the morning.
What I'm loving: Feeling good in my skin, I think due to Yoga and Barre at Blooma. Also, being grateful that I can take days of rest. I feel like the next 4 months are going to FLY by.
Symptoms: Definitely had some hard right hip pain. I can't sit on the floor anymore during photoshoots without some pain. Need to look into a bolster. Also, this baby seems to like water too much. I took a bath this week for the first time since the water scares at week 20/21 and he just drops super low when I get out and I don't LOVE that feeling at all. I really wanted to be in the water especially towards the end when it gets warm, but we will see. I am going to try to give the gym pool a try in the coming weeks to see if it has the same affect.
What I'm looking forward to: Making more meals this week with Matt and just rocking out the schedule. Also, my assistant returns this week and I have a wedding Saturday so excited about the warmer weather a bit and just shooting a sweet couple. Oh. and more mid day naps.
Best moment of the week: Grateful my mom brought food down on Monday when I was sick that was super nice. Honestly all the nummy recipes we made this week was a highlight!!!
Verse that I am clinging to: Galatians 4:16 But I say, walk by the spirit and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh.  Which in my world right now means, That I need to meet Jesus first or my flesh will rule the day. I need to start with a devotion, a note of gratitude, a prayer or quiet time with the Lord. I know my schedule will vary but making HIM first everyday dramatically changes the way my heart acts and feels and handles situations. And I find myself fighting my flesh if I don't start with the spirit RIGHT in the morning. So clinging to this truth this week.
Photo: Wearing the same top I wore at week 13-14 photo for some comparison for me. It's also crazy to me how depending on how I am standing the bump looks bigger, a lot bigger. So I made a comparison shot today of more of a straight up stance, vrs a lean back into one leg stance. It's crazy :). Looks SO different to me ;)

| 23 Weeks and 5 Days |