the skies i'm under ~ 1 year anniversary!

 It has now been a year since I renamed and revamped this blog of mine!!  Wow...

This last year has been such a journey: infertility struggles, two moves, driving across the country to live in Utah, a job change, health issues, switching from regular coffee to decaf (definitely worth noting!), and now a pregnancy!!

These pics were taken at 10 weeks, 2 days and they show the last time I've worn anything but pj's since then.  I am now 11 weeks along and as sick as a dog.  This last week has definitely been the hardest so far.

I've lost about 10 pounds overall and have finally given in and will be taking anti-nausea meds to help.  I will certainly be thankful when this part of pregnancy is over.  

One *amazing* bright spot is what I got to experience a week ago.  After being gently cautioned by my doctor that it might still be too early and to not freak out if we couldn't hear anything, a Doppler was placed on my tummy and Andrew and I were INSTANTLY greeted by a loud, strong Baby J heartbeat!!!  It was the most beautiful sound I'd ever heard... definitely an emotional moment for me.  Praising the Lord for the reassurance that all is well!

As you can see here, in a certain light you can tell that my middle is beginning to thicken.  *smile!*  Since I haven't gained any weight, clothes still fit pretty much the same... except maybe that pants aren't quite so comfy around the waist anymore.  Amazing how the body was built to sustain the baby even while the mother is struggling.  So happy that my body puts Baby J first!!!

On a different note, last weekend I had a day where I felt decent so Andrew took me to see Mockingjay, Part 1!  GAH!  Yeah, I really enjoyed it.  Definitely left emotionally drained (being pregnant does NOT help with keeping emotions in check!), but so impressed with how they brought the book to life.  I am currently in love with the song "The Hanging Tree".  So hauntingly beautiful.

In other news, one week from tomorrow Andrew and I will be flying out to see my family!!!!  It has been nine months since we were all together and I can't even express how excited I am (praying for the meds to help me while traveling especially).  I have missed my people like-beyond-crazy and can't wait to soak them all in for a week.  I will also be meeting someone who has become very important to my sister, Jessie... *oh, the suspense!*

So many pics to come, I'm sure!!!

Thank you so much for the continued prayers for Andrew, me, and Baby J!!!  Prayers for me to find some relief would be most appreciated so I can prep for the trip, endure the flights, and also feel well during our vacation.  So many adventures to come in this next year of blogging!!!

<3