kaylyn machelle

instagrams.

2012-01-24T10:46:00.000-08:00

Pictures of life lately. How did I get so lucky???

all taken with the Instragram app for the iPhone.

I'm back now.

2012-01-21T06:10:00.000-08:00

Oh my oh my, has it truly been over two weeks since I've been on here? I'm back now!

Let me update you on our lives. First let's start with Graham since, ya know, he tends to come first around here...

Graham

-Today he is one month old. One month!!! More on that later. I've got a special post just for him coming later.

-Graham is seriously the loudest eater ever. When I nurse him he gulps and squeals like nobody's business! So much for trying to be discreet in public.

-He has been pretty fussy lately. And by pretty, I mean really. I think it's because these darn antibiotics I'm taking right now. I feel terrible and we've still for a whoppin' 6 days to go on them.

-My babe is changing everyday. One day I think he looks like papa, and the next I think he looks like momma. He is such a great mix of the two of us and I love trying to pick out what qualities he got from each of us! (Danny's forehead, eyebrows, eyes, and expressions...my fingers, ears, lips, and cheeks...)

-Graham is growing a new love for his swing, which momma appreciates more than ever. Why, hello, both hands! Nice to see you both free again!

-He really is growing! He is longer everyday, but I am still not seeing a lot of baby chub yet. I do, however, think some of his newborn jammies are getting too small! Noooo!!!!

-Graham also loves his bath now. He just lays there quietly while we wash him and speak lovey to him. He especially loves bubbles!

-This past week we started putting Graham in his crib for the first stretch of the night (about 3 hours). Getting him to fall asleep is a challenge, but once he's out he does great. It has been a really great thing for Danny and I to get some time alone to go over the day and pray together uninterrupted before bed. The rest of the night & morning is spent co-sleeping. I sure do love that part, too!

Papa

-Danny is a seriously incredible dad. I saw the potential in him from the very beginning, but now I get to see him live it out on a daily basis. He changes diapers, swaddles, and changes Graham like a pro.

-While I've been on maternity leave, the ministry has been in Danny's hands. He has rocked it- handling all of the worship scheduling, teaching, organization, administration, etc. I am a proud wife and co-worker.

-Danny makes me laugh like no other, especially when I need it most. I am so thankful for a smart, funny, witty husband who can make me smile when Graham pees all over me. Or our curtains. Or our kitchen counter. Or his brand new outfit. Or...

Momma

-I recently told Danny that I feel like a zombie 40% of my days. Ah, sleep deprivation...

-I also got mastitis late last week, which was a terrible surprise to wake up to one day. It took me about 12 hours to figure out what was wrong. (high temp, chills, body aches, etc.) Luckily I got into the doctor the next day and have been on antibiotics since. Am feeling much better now!

-The days fly by so quickly, how do mommas have time for things like housework, nail painting, and hair curling? I've come to terms with the reality that I just can't do it all. Hence, my two-week vacation from blogging. Oh well!

-While getting meals for 2 weeks was an amazing gift from my friends and family, it has been good to get back in the kitchen. I even have a couple recipes to share!

Home

-2 or 3 days before Graham was born we had an earthquake that was centered in our very own city. It sure spooked us in the middle of the night, but we didn't think much else about it until Danny walked into the garage the next morning to water everywhere. (Including our downstairs bathroom and hallway.) A hot water pipe had broken in our bedroom and leaked all night through the walls and downstairs. We got it fixed that day, thank goodness, but it has taken weeks for them to do repair work (new flooring, paint, wall repair, etc.) . As of last Wednesday we've finally had the house to ourselves! Hoorayyyyy!!!!!!!!!!!

There's more to share but my baby is sleepin' and there are other things to be done. Be back tomorrow!

Love,

things i'm lovin.

2012-01-06T09:41:00.000-08:00

1. baby belly...but on the outside. oh, the joy of using two hands but still having my babe extra close!

2. these blue eyes. seriously? so beautiful...

3. watching our two boys interact. when Graham cries, Denver is there within seconds. so sweet.

4. wearing my wedding ring...huzzah! i didn't have too much swelling during my pregnancy, but just enough to make wearing my band uncomfortable. i love seeing this beauty on my finger again.

5. early morning pillow talk with my boy. we have the most interesting of conversations- he is the best company.

6. baby wipes, laundry detergent, and little white onesies. i use more of each of them than i ever imagined!

i never thought i'd be so excited for the weekend. watching a laker game from home, doing a little post-pregnancy shopping, introducing our babe to extended family, going to church, and topping it all off with a trip to the beach is what's on the menu!

Happy weekend!

our family.

2012-01-03T08:52:00.000-08:00

The amazingly talented Erica Sergio Stubblefield- AKA one of my dearest friends in life- came to visit us 4 short days after Graham was born. Not only did she bring me a big ol' chai latte (which I had been craving since labor), she brought her camera. Since I've seen these pictures I've looked at them, oh, ten or twenty, okay... hundreds of times. I can't get over the fact that this is my family. And like Danny keeps reminding me, this is just the beginning.

Thank you Eri for capturing our family so beautifully. I am in love!

Here are a few of my very favorites:

dance party.

2011-12-29T10:52:00.000-08:00

This is how we're spending some of our time over here. Please excuse all the unfolded laundry waiting for us on the couch. (It can keep on a-waitin', I've got better things to do...)

42 weeks.

2011-12-28T09:44:00.000-08:00

My sweet boy,

As I type this you're in my arms, happy and full. This is exactly the way you've made me feel the past 5 days- so incredibly happy and full of joy, love, bliss, adoration, and laughter. You are more beautiful than I could have possibly imagined. I spend hours studying your face and all of your emotions. I love your steel blue eyes, the dimple on your left cheek, and the way your lips are always slightly open.

Your birth day was the absolute best day of our lives. It was the most joyous experience and I wouldn't have had it go any other way. It was so evident that the Holy Spirit was in your room and I felt the Lord's presence in a way I've never felt it before. One day I will tell you all about it. God has been so faithful!

In some ways I feel like I know you so well. Every hiccup and stretch is exactly what I've been feeling the past 9 months. But in some ways I feel like we just met- the sound of your cries, the different expressions you give me throughout the day- it's all so new to me! But you were always Graham Lewis, my sweet-spirited, content, observant baby boy.

So this truly is the end of one journey and the beginning of another. I love being your mother and feel so blessed that God has chosen me from you, and you for me. Your daddy is especially in love and can soothe you like no other. We were all made for each other, honey! I love you so much that surely my heart will burst. Welcome to the world, Graham Lewis!

I love you more than I ever thought possible,

momma

Graham Lewis.

2011-12-26T18:24:00.000-08:00

Graham Lewis

December 23, 2011

7 pounds 10 ounces

19 3/4 inches

Hello friends!

Meet our son! Our son! Can you believe it?!

We are home and both of us are doing really well. It was the most beautiful, incredible experience of my life and I can't wait to share about it with you. For now, I'm off to enjoy these boys of mine. I am so in love...

xo,

Kaylyn Machelle

41 weeks.

2011-12-20T06:15:00.000-08:00

My sweet baby boy,

This is us at the end. We've been through a lot, you and me. It started with two lines that completely rocked our worlds. Then we were sick for a while, which was no fun. But the constant nausea was a reminder that you really were growing in there and it was so worth it. And do you remember when we went to Israel? It was absolutely the best trip of our lives and as soon as we got home we got to share about you with everyone we know. Since then our love for you has grown with every single day that has passed. As much as I am so ready for you to come on out already, it is incredibly surreal that this pregnancy is coming to an end and parenthood is going to start. I have a feeling it will be the most beautiful journey your daddy and I have ever been on.

So, I guess it's birth week over here. Birthdays last at least a week over here, so we've already started celebrating. Yesterday we started with watching not one but two movies by a blazing fire. Tonight we went on a nice walk with Denver and we're about to indulge in a cookie with cookies and cream ice cream on top (our favorite). Tomorrow we're going to celebrate Christmas brunch with the rest of the church staff and then we're going to walk and see Christmas lights at night. The rest of the week isnt' really planned, we're just taking it one day at a time over here.

I feel silly that I wondered if we would even make it through November, but here we are, 2/3 of the way through December. It's time, sweetheart. I couldn't be more ready for you.

I love you Graham,

Momma

still here.

2011-12-19T08:58:00.001-08:00

Just stopping by to say I'm still here. 41 weeks pregnant. Who would've thought?

Danny sent me this really great devotional that I think we both needed this morning. I hope that it brings you a holy calm today, whatever it is that you're waiting for.

If the decision about the lot is the Lord's, whose is the arrangement of our whole life? If the simple casting of a lot is guided by Him, how much more the events of our entire life-especially when we are told by our blessed Savior, "Even the hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not, therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows."¹ It would bring a holy calm over your mind, dear friend, if you were to constantly remember this. It would relieve your mind from anxiety and enable you to walk in patience, quietness, and cheerfulness as a Christian should. When a man is anxious he cannot pray with faith; when he is troubled about the world, he cannot serve his Master, for his thoughts are serving himself.
If you would "seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness,"² all things would then be added to you. You are meddling with Christ's business and neglecting your own when you fret about your lot and circumstances. You have been trying to do the providing and forgetting to do the obeying. Be wise and pay attention to the obeying, and let Christ manage the providing. Come and survey your Father's storehouse, and ask whether He will allow you to starve while He has so great an abundance in store. Look at His heart of mercy; see if that can ever prove unkind! Look at His unsearchable wisdom; see if that will ever be at fault. Above all, look to Jesus Christ your Intercessor, and ask yourself, while He pleads, can your Father deal ungraciously with you? If He remembers even sparrows, will He forget one of the least of His poor children? "Cast your burden on the LORD, and he will sustain you; he will never permit the righteous to be moved."³

My soul, rest happy in your low estate,
Nor hope nor wish to be esteem'd or great;
To take the impress of the Will Divine,
Be that your glory, and those riches thine.

¹ Matthew 10:30-31 ² Matthew 6:33 ³ Psalm 55:22

-From Spurgeon's "Morning and Evening"

false labor + waiting for the Lord.

2011-12-15T09:02:00.001-08:00

I thought I was in labor the other afternoon. Turned out to be the side effects from a little Sam's Club lunch date that Danny took me on. Worth every stomach cramp, I tell ya- they sure do know how to handle a foil-wrapped hot dog.

(lunch date)

In other news, we've just been waiting. When you're a ticking time bomb, it's hard to live life normally. But, we're trying... I keep making little to-do lists and playing mind games with myself. For instance, Graham isn't here yet because I haven't _________ (fill in the blank with things like "done that last load of laundry" or "scrubbed the metal track in our shower"). When I do said chore and he hasn't arrived, I am sure it's because there are other things to add. It's a nasty cycle, but hey- our house is looking good.

Well, last night before youth group I got a bigger perspective of why he hasn't arrived. I was introduced to a new teenage girl and I noticed she was on the brink of crying. One hug was all it took to let out the tears and we spent the next 40 minutes in my office talking, praying, and reading Scriptures together. I left that divine appointment full of the Holy Spirit, and realizing that if I had gone into labor before that moment, I would have missed out on some big Kingdom work that God still had for me.

So, I'm resting in the fact that there is more yet to do. Maybe it's memorizing more Scripture (like the one below). Maybe it's conversations that I've yet to have. Or maybe, just maybe, it's because I need to scrub the outside of the cupboards and the inside of our trashcans. Yep- that's it.

xo,

40 weeks.

2011-12-12T07:18:00.000-08:00

Graham,

Happy due date! This date has been such a dream in my mind this entire time- it's hard to believe the day is actually here. But you sure fooled me, little one! I was certain you'd be an early baby, but it looks like you'll be making your appearance on the later side of things. Of course, there is still plenty of time left in today in case you prefer to be right on time- just like your momma.

I thought I was going into labor this weekend. We were at a Christmas performance and the singing was so extraordinary and powerful and I could tell you were enjoying it. Then started the back pain. (Oy, the back pain...) It came and went in waves...and then it just went. Oh well, it was good practice for the real thing! Which, by the way, I am so ready for.

At some times I am perfectly content- enjoying this last bit of unity that you and I share. There are other times that I am completely miserable and willing to do anything to get you on outta there! One big lesson I have learned throughout these last 40 weeks is that my body truly is not my own. In fact, I have zero control over almost everything. Thank you, my son, for teaching me about patience already. I know you will be worth every minute, hour, and day that continues to pass by.

I love you so much,

Your Momma

a Christmas date.

2011-12-08T08:58:00.000-08:00

Last weekend Danny took me (and two of our dearest friends) out to dinner and to a play. It was freezing but oh, so perfect. We saw A Christmas Carol at Victoria Garden's Cultural Center. (For those of you locals, did you know VG's had a CULTURAL CENTER?!?!?!) It was the best $18 (per person) we could have spent for such amazing Christmas entertainment. They're playing this weekend and tickets are still available! What better way to celebrate than dressing up all fancy, eating good food, and watching a classic come to life before your eyes. There is no better way, I tell you!

PS That Christmas sweater there (the one with reindeer and Christmas trees) was purchased at the start of our night. Danny has been itching for one for years! He got a compliment on it immediately, and then the guy started telling us about an ugly Christmas sweater party he was going to the next night. What does that mean!??!?!?! Bah humbug! He still wears it with pride.

(This spring they're playing Wizard of Oz...I'm thinking YES!)

roasted chicken.

2011-12-06T08:25:00.000-08:00

Let's take a break from baby watch, shall we?

This is one of my favorite dinners- roasted chicken! For some reason this always terrified me, but now it is one of our basics around here. It's so easy and so delicious. Here's the how-to!

-Buy a fresh chicken from your local grocery store...typically will cost between $4-$5, depending on your size!
-Heat your oven to 475 (yep- that's hot)

-Rinse chicken thoroughly and pat dry

-Set in your dish breast-side up

-Rub kosher salt into the chicken breast - I usually use about 1-2 T

-Use your fingers to separate the skin from the breast (near the neck) and slide in fresh or dried thyme

-Sprinkle with fresh ground pepper

-Roast for 45-60 minutes, depending on size

-That's IT!!!! So easy!!!

This time we added potatoes, carrots, and onions straight into the pan and it was delicious! We typically eat half of the chicken and use the other half for chicken salad, chicken pot pie, etc.

Enjoy. :)

(Sorry to my sweet vegetarian friends- I love you!)

39 weeks.

2011-12-05T07:34:00.000-08:00

Baby boy,

We had a really magical weekend out here. On Friday your daddy took me out on a date! We also did a little bit of shopping and walking around. We came home and laid on the couch and I fell asleep early just like normal. When your daddy took us to bed we had a beautiful conversation about how much we love each other and how joyful we are that you'll be here soon. Saturday we did lots of stuff around the house like putting up lights and doing grocery shopping. We ended the day by going out to dinner with our friends and seeing a play- The Christmas Carol! It was so fun to be out in the cold celebrating the Christmas season. I knew I would love having December as your birth month- everything is so special and wonderful! Yesterday we went to church and your daddy played the guitar for the last time this month, so he'll be good and ready for whenever you arrive. We also did a lot of walking and playing with Denver and we had a nice, romantic dinner at home just the two of us.

Did you know that you're the talk of the town? Everyone is asking us how I'm feeling and if I'm "ready". (The answers are great and YES!!!!) There are a lot of people out here who adore you and can't wait to hear the news of your arrival. You're such a rockstar already! Instead of constantly wondering when you'll make your grand entrance, I've decided to really focus on spending special time by myself and with your dad. I must say, though, he thinks you'll be here by Wednesday. I sure hope so!

I'm enjoying these last few days of having you in my tummy. I'll miss being pregnant with you so much. I love wondering what that little bump on my right side is (a foot? a knee? your little bum???). I love feeling your every move. I love knowing you're safe and sound. I've loved it all, my son. But as much as I love you and these last 9 months we've experienced together, I know my love for you is about to grow exponentially! Come out when you're good and ready!

I love you to the moon and back,

Momma

December.

2011-12-01T08:56:00.000-08:00

Welcome, December!

Please bring me my baby sooner rather than later!

Love,

one pregnant momma

this man.

2011-11-29T08:17:00.000-08:00

I get weepy at the thought of how much I really do love him. He's the one who helps me with my toes. The one who carries our tired pup to bed when he refuses to walk up the stairs by himself. The one who (literally) works beside me in ministry. The one who builds stuff for our son. The one who is tall, strong, and all leg (just like the other little mister in our family).

The realization that I get to go through life with him by my side brings me more joy that I could have ever prayed for or imagined.

38 weeks.

2011-11-28T07:42:00.000-08:00

My son,

This past week we celebrated Thanksgiving and, boy, do we have a lot to be thankful for! You are one of the best gifts your daddy and I have ever been given and we continuously praise God and give him thanks for allowing us to be your parents. We are just so honored and privileged and humbled. Above all else this year, we are thankful for you, Graham!

This weekend we bought our Christmas tree and it makes the whole house smell so wonderful. I can't wait to hold you and rock you by it so you can see all of the beautiful lights. It's pretty exciting that the month of December starts this week. It's the month I've been looking forward to since your daddy and I saw those two lines way back in April. In some ways, that day seems like yesterday, but in others, it seems worlds away. It won't be too long now 'til we're skin against skin, soaking in the joy of life together.

I am pretty much in constant anticipation of you. Every day I can feel my body becoming more and more prepared to birth you. I'm not afraid- just so confident that you and I were made just for this, honey. We have another appointment tomorrow and I am really looking forward to seeing how we've progressed in the past week. I am trying to enjoy the last few days or weeks of my pregnancy, but I can hardly wait to see you, smell you, and kiss you. You have 3 days left until you'll be a December baby. I wonder if we can wait it out that long??

Most mornings your daddy will roll over in bed to me and say Ready for a great day, sweetie?!? Well, Graham, ready for a great life?!? Come on out whenever you're ready, cause it's gonna be a good one.

I love you,

Momma

so good.

2011-11-23T06:53:00.000-08:00

This was read in our staff meeting yesterday (source unknown) and I love love loved it. Hope you love it, too.

The universe and all it contains put me in awe of your creative ability, God. No matter where I go, no matter what time of day or year, I experience the blessing of your creative genius,

You show it in the things I see: the terrains of the world, from deserts to rainforests; the variety of animals, from puppies to polar bears; and the stars, moon, and sun deep in space. Then there are the tastes, smells, and sounds that fill my experience with pleasure; the sweetness of a nectarine; the fragrance of a rose; the roar of a waterfall.

Sometimes I close my eyes and just enjoy the feeling of grass under my feet and a breeze touching my skin. All is so beautiful and good.

You give my existence purpose, God – in the work you call me to do, in the people you ask me to love, in the skills you intend for me to use, in the opportunities that come my way. It’s true that I go about my day as one who has a mission to fulfill, and I realize that my mission is this: to do and be the best I can with what you have given me. I accept that mission today as a blessing from you, God, and I thank you for the grace and strength you will provide for me to carry it out.

37 weeks.

2011-11-22T07:03:00.000-08:00

Baby boy,

Well, honey, we've made it! We're now officially considered full term. The doctor says I am 1 cm dilated and 25% effaced, so we're making progress! I am so proud of you for hanging in there for so long. You are such a champ! I still feel pretty good out here- not quite as uncomfortable as I thought I may be. The biggest thing that's been challenging is that I am constantly tired. I mean it- 30 minutes after I wake up in the morning I am ready for a nap. Your dad has been so good to me and encourages me to rest at every opportunity.

We packed our hospital bag this weekend since they say you can come any day now. I even made a playlist of my favorite songs to help me relax while I'm in labor. You must like my choices because you get active anytime I play my music. I wonder if you'll be a musician like your daddy?

This past week we celebrated my 25th birthday. That means when you celebrate your 25th birthday, I'll be celebrating my 50th birthday! I promise we'll do something extra special that year, okay? Anyway, your dad took me to Disneyland and it was the most beautiful day. It was really crisp and cool and we got to wear our coats and scarves. We couldn't go on too many rides, but we did a lot of the ones that we'll take you on next year! We people watched a lot, too, taking special interest in everyone's stroller choices. Are we parents or what?!

The house is clean, the pantry is stocked, the bags are packed...momma's ready for you, sweetheart. You just come on out whenever your little heart desires.

I can't wait to love you on the outside,

Momma

"You gotta get the wiggle on!"

2011-11-18T09:07:00.000-08:00

We have fun at youth group!

Game idea from NBC's Minute to Win It: Junk in the Trunk!

twenty-five.

2011-11-17T09:21:00.000-08:00

This morning I awoke to a new year. It's called 25. And I do believe it'll be the best year of my life as of yet.

Without futher ado, here's who I am at 25.

I woke up in the early morning hours to a sick, congested husband. After finding him some medicine and waking him up to make him take it, my first thought was Must get Vick's chest rub at Target. My second thought was Whoa, I sound like a mom. I smiled myself back to sleep.

If I could have an endless supply of anything it would be the delicious smell of baby, good health for my family, and memories full of midnight nursing, book reading, song singing, and daddy, momma, baby dancing. Good thing, too, cause I have a feeling that's what I'm gonna get.

My main identities are wife and momma. I am growing as a wife, learning new things about my husband on a daily basis and striving to love and serve him with the love of Christ. In the past 36 weeks I have also learned to love him in his new role as a father. This year we will navigate our first year of parenthood side by side. Sleep deprivation, clothes covered in spit up, poopy diapers, and being madly in love with one another. That's what I know this next year will consist of.

That whole student thing is old news for the first time in 21 years. Of course, I'm speaking of the professional student thing. The days of homework and paper writing and overdosing on coffee to get through one more study session are long gone. But the whole learning thing? It'll never end, and I never want it to.

My ministry is one of the most beautiful aspects of my life. I smile when people ask if I'll be returning to work after Graham arrives. If this was a mere job, I'd be out. But it's my calling. So I'll take my 6-8 weeks and return to our office with baby in tow. That's right- 25 brings about 3 to an office- dad, mom, and babe. That's what I call family ministry.

At 25 I feel the healthiest I have ever felt. Despite my history, I haven't had a single problem throughout my pregnancy. As a matter of fact, I haven't had one symptom in 3 years. I am officially in "remission", folks. The ANA remains, but it's hidden away in my bloodwork- careful to stay out of the way of my daily life. I have a feeling 25 will bring about continued remission with the help of a healthy lifestyle.

So I guess that's who I am at 25. Daughter of the King, wife, momma, and youth worker. This year I will be consumed with joy. I'll smile and slow down and eat good food and enjoy my dear friends and grow in faith, love, patience, and peace. And I will enjoy the life God has given me yet another year of.

Who I was at 24.

Who I was at 23.

Take 2.

2011-11-16T06:07:00.000-08:00

Remember Marcel Part 1? Well, my friends- they've done it again. Marcel the Shell, take two.

Hope this makes your day like it made mine!

36 weeks.

2011-11-15T07:35:00.000-08:00

Hello my little one,

Four weeks until your due date. Four weeks!!! I can't believe how quickly each week is going by. I have been trying to imagine what it will be like when you enter the world and I am so overcome with joy I can hardly stand it. Your daddy and I can't wait to hold you, kiss you, smell you, and cuddle you. Yesterday my doctor said that if you decide to make your arrival on the early side, you will be a healthy little baby. I have a feeling you've got a while to go, though...my cervix is very soft but still closed. My guess is that you're waiting for December!

Our church family threw me a shower this Sunday and it was such a wonderful celebration! We ate delicious food and played fun games. They even prayed over me and you! You have a lot of women out here who can't wait to get their hands on you. We are so blessed to have a church family who loves us like they do. I can't wait for you to grow up in our beautiful community.

Last night daddy and I watched a movie in bed and folded lots of your cute tiny clothes. I can't even believe you're going to fit into some of these! Your daddy and I would hold them up and big smiles would be across our faces. We are so happy, honey. I wonder if you'll read these one day and realize how much we have loved you from day one? If you're reading this, please know that you are cherished by your father and I. We really do love you an incomprehensible amount. I hope life is good for you and that you still think your daddy and I are cool parents. Of course, we'll always think you are the coolest.

I love you always,

Momma

PS I know you can't tell in this picture, but my belly button...it's arrived!!!!

it's time.

2011-11-14T07:19:00.000-08:00

This morning I bought these two albums with a gift card I've been saving for a special occasion. And, well, how much more special do the holidays get?

I have a feeling that these albums along with the Harry Connick Jr. Pandora station will perfectly fulfill my Christmas music longings. Let the Christmas tunes commence!

face & update.

2011-11-10T08:34:00.000-08:00

-I love this ultrasound picture I got of his sweet little face on Monday. Maybe it's just me, but it is as clear as day. There's his right eye, his nose, his lips, and his little arms curled up on his chest. The left side of his face is hiding in the shadows. Can you see it? I'm thinking of becoming a sonogram interpreter one day. Or maybe I only see it because he's mine. Hm...

-Pretty sure our little mister has dropped. Others have noticed, too. I've been without heartburn for close to 10 days now and it is such a relief, despite the constant need to run to the bathroom. Oh, and then there's the fact that it feels like a bowling ball is resting on my pelvis. That's cool.

-He gets hiccups nearly every other day and is so wiggly all the time. I imagine he's running out of room in there and trying to find a comfortable position. Little does he know that after a little journey south, he'll be able to stretch out and wiggle around to his heart's desire.

-On Monday I'll get my first pelvic exam to find out how things are progressing. It seems a little crazy to me that it's about that time to check for effacement and dialation. Our Graham will be here before we know it!

tuckered out.

2011-11-09T07:37:00.000-08:00

Look at that sweet little pup of ours- all tuckered out and asleep on his favorite toy. I know all too well how he feels...

For the past two weeks I've been living off of pure adrenaline. My mind had been consumed with the move, job change, and everything that accompanied it. (did I mention it also meant a pretty drastic insurance change? That's right- new insurance, new doctor, new hospital, new everything...) I knew I would crash at some point. Well, we're there my friends. I've crashed.

The good news is that we're completely moved in. Apart from hanging a few more things and finding homes for some odds and ends, we're here, thanks to the nesting instinct that completely took over mind and body! It feels good to be home and we so love it here. (dishwasher, fireplace, and insulation, oh my!)

The other good news is that we're over the hump with the insurance change. I spent 5 hours at the hospital yesterday getting blood work, another full ultrasound, pre-admitting to the hospital, getting Graham's birth certificate information, and making my appointments for non stress tests, doctor visits, and midwife visits. Holy moly! I think a change of insurance at 35 weeks pregnant means making up for 35 weeks of medical care in one day. I came home exhausted and completely spent. BUT...we're good and ready for the next 5(ish) weeks!

I miss blogging. I'll be back soon with updates on our boy, his room, our home, and a recipe or two.

xo.

35 weeks.

2011-11-08T06:40:00.000-08:00

Dear Son,

I am doing another guest appearance on your mom’s blog. I think I will spend my time telling you and the rest of the world how I excited I am to meet you in person.

We are nearing the tail end of your womb growing, so to speak. Even now as I am writing this, I turn to my right and see a chalk board that says “Countdown to Graham: 35 (ish) days!” That means it could be sooner… so crazy. Feel free to come when you are ready, but I would prefer it to be after your mom is 37 weeks along, just to be safe.

So here’s the deal my little man: I am absolutely in love with you. You haven’t done a single thing yet and I already love you more than you know. Every kick you give, every nudge in mom’s ribs, every time you look like you are trying to break out, I just smile and think, “that’s my boy!”

Your room is all put together except for a couple pictures we need to get framed. I think you are really going to dig it. It is way cooler that my room growing up. I mean, you have a paper-mâché giraffe above you crib, what’s not to love?! I even put your jogger together tonight (though I accidently cut a wire that tracks how many rotations the tire has made…but I don’t think you will miss it). And the jogger has an iPod jack so we can bump whatever tunes you want when we take family cruises. I sure am looking forward to pushing you in that thing.

I know I am biased, but I think you are gonna like your home. And by home, I mean you mom, Den Den and me. We feel blessed that we get to be your mom, dad and furry bro.

With that said, get ready to party because whatever day you come is going to be your birthday! I will clap, sing, yell and cry “Happy Birthday Graham! Happy zero birthday!"

Love you forever,

Dad

34 weeks.

2011-11-02T06:21:00.000-07:00

My little pumpkin,

Right when this picture was taken Denver got into a barking match with the dog next door. You must have heard it because you started moving like crazy! In fact, if you look closely you can see how you shifted to the left side of my stomach. My tummy constantly changes shapes throughout the day as you move around in there. The word on the street is that you're about as long as you'll get, you just have lots of chub to add. Keep working on that, sweetheart, because I love me some baby chub.

We are officially moved into the new house and we love it! We've gone straight to work in your nursery. It's not quite done yet, but it's getting there. Yesterday I clipped all of the tags off your tiny little clothes, then washed, folded, and sorted them. You're going to be a stylish little dude...just like your daddy.

Another big change just happened in our family's life. Your daddy got a new job and now we'll be doing ministry together. You don't know it, but you were a huge factor in making this decision. We talked about how you will one day grow up and pursue your dreams. We said that above the money you'll make or the places you'll move, more than anything we just want you to follow your dreams and passions and to use the gifts God has given you. We hope we're examples of that for your entire life.

I love you like crazy,

Momma

PS I can't get enough oranges lately...mmm citrus!

big, exciting news.

2011-11-01T07:18:00.000-07:00

The past 8-9 months have been such a miraculous journey. Yes, we've been pregnant and it has been one of the most beautiful seasons of life. However, that's not the only thing God has been orchestrating so perfectly. I'd like to give you the bottom line of what has happened in our lives, and then I'd like to show you how God has been so faithful along the way.

As of today, November 1, Danny is officially the Student Ministries Co-Director at our church. (And for those of you who don't know, I'm the one he's co-directing with...)

This is how the journey has gone:

January 2011 - We start advertising for the co-director position. As our student ministries grows, we have been committed to getting me help in terms of hired church staff. As the sole director of a 100+ student ministry, trust me...I needed help. We thought it would be a 4-6 weeks process. But no- no one applied for months.

April - As we were still waiting for someone to apply, I continued dreaming into the position. For those of you who are in ministry, you know how important it is to work alongside someone who shares in your dreams and passions, but is gifted in different ways. The more and more I thought about who the person would be, I could only think of my husband.

Whoa. My husband? Working alongside him? He was completely content at his banking job and, although he served with me at every event and on every Wednesday night, I wasn't sure he was "called" into vocational ministry. I didn't want to be the one to plant this idea in him, so I never brought it up. If this was what God wanted, I wanted the Holy Spirit to press it upon his heart. So I prayed about it on my own, knowing God would provide my co-director (whoever that may be) in his own timing.

Meanwhile, God was working simultaneously in Danny's heart. He had been dreaming about the position, too, but was hesitant to share with me. He was committed to praying about it and journaling about it on his own.

May - If you remember, we took an incredible trip to Israel in May. It was life-changing in more ways than one. It drew us closer as husband and wife and the separate dreams of being co-directors kept brewing. Toward the end of the month, over dinner, one of us brought it up as a joke. Wouldn't it be funny if you applied for the position? We laughed. And then we looked at each other with straight faces. It was no longer a joke.

Because we are husband and wife, we knew it could be a messy proposition to bring to the church staff. Neither of us have seen a husband and wife work in ministry so closely together, and we knew this would be a new idea to our church, as well. We made the decision that we would continue praying about it- both individually and together. We prayed specifically that someone within our church body would call this out of Danny. Until then, it would stay between us.

June - We shared that a baby was on the way. We experienced the incredible joy and support of our friends, family, and church family. In fact, an elder who we very much love, admire, and respect took Danny out for coffee. What we thought was a little celebration (Hooray- you're going to be a dad!) turned out to be a huge catalyst in this whole journey. Over those wonderful little roasted beans, this man asked Danny, Have you ever thought of applying for the position? We knew that was the answer to our prayers. We also knew it was the green light we needed to press our foot on the gas and move forward in this process.

July - I brought all of this up to the pastors at our church. I have this idea- and if you think it's insane and there is no reason to pursue it, that's okay- we'll shut the door now. But if you have even and inkling that this might work, I'd love for us to pray about the possibility of... My proposition was met with a big smile. And our prayer team doubled from 2 to 4. We committed to pray about it collectively and individually.

August - Danny and I met with our pastors to talk about logistics. (You know, all the stuff like insurance and pay and job descriptions...) It went well and we all left excited, but still uncertain how it would work out. With a baby on the way, could we get insurance? Would our income be sufficient? What would the elders and the rest of our church body feel about a husband and wife team? Etc, etc, etc... We kept meeting to talk about these things and praying into God's will...

September - We met with more church staff to get detailed information about pay, insurance, etc. We found out we'd be taking a pay cut due to insurance costs. But we'd be able to make it. Things kept moving forward. The elders met and, although initially there were concerns, it was agreed upon that this would be a good fit. If anyone could work together as a husband-wife team, Danny and Kaylyn could do it... That's what we kept hearing. And our excitement and passion continued to grow.

October - Danny's financial package was finalized. We found out about renting his childhood home for less than our previous rent, which made our budget even out to what we had been spending before the job change. (Hallelujah Jesus- this was huge...) The job description was clearly written out. His desk was set up. He put in his 2 weeks at the bank.

October 30 - We announce to the church that Danny is the new co-director for student ministries. We were met with tremendous joy and support from our entire church body. We were prayed over by elders, deacons, church staff, youth, and their parents.

November 1 - I am sitting across the office from my husband...the love of my life, my best friend, my partner in ministry, and now my co-director. I am completely in love with both him and our Creator. And I am amazed at God's provision and faithfulness over the past 9 months. May our marriage and our ministry be a testament to how good, faithful, and loving our God truly is.

Amen.

33 weeks.

2011-10-25T10:25:00.000-07:00

Graham,

Look how big you're getting in there! I saw the doctor today and she told me all about how healthy you are and how well you are growing. She guesses you are about 4 pounds 10 ounces right now, and that you'll likely get to be around 8 and a half pounds by 40 weeks (though she wasn't convinced I'll make it that long!). I love seeing your round little head and the outline of your tummy. I think you are such a miracle, my son.

Sure, it's been 33 weeks and all, but I'm really starting to feel pregnant. The midnight bathroom runs, the ongoing heartburn, the achy back, the heavy feeling in my pelvis, the desire to nap an hour after I wake up in the morning...yep, I'm definitely pregnant. And to be completely honest with you, I am still loving every second of it.

Your daddy and I will be busy moving this week and there are a lot of sweet people that are going to help. We really are surrounded by so many people who love and care for our little family. There's this saying that it takes a village to raise a child, and I believe it. We've got quite a beautiful village around us! We're the luckiest...

I love you!

Momma

let it begin.

2011-10-24T11:25:00.001-07:00

the craziness, that is.

I dubb this week "move week". I've even come up with a little schedule to keep me on track.

Monday: Pack during the day, Danny to move Graham's boxes at night

Tuesday: Interior gets painted, move freezer/fridge foods that we won't need for the week

Wednesday: Move a few boxes

Thursday: Interior to get cleaned, move pantry foods and clothes

Friday: Move the rest of the clothes, kitchen, books and miscellaneous items

Saturday: Big moving day for the guys...donut and coffee provided by yours truly

Sunday: Hang, organize, etc.

And with that, we have moving week. Wish me luck. I'll be back...sometime.

stork parking.

2011-10-19T10:23:00.000-07:00

So did y'all hear about the pregnant woman who ran the marathon? 9 months pregnant, 26 miles in 6 1/2 hours, and a baby 7 hours later. Whoa.

I was watching Ellen last week and she said, "If pregnant women can run marathons, why do we give them all the good parking spots?"

Whatever, Ellen! I'll take stork parking til the end, baby!

(I speed-walked 2 miles (1/2 uphill!) in under 26 minutes last night and was so impressed with myself. But no marathon for me...)

32 weeks.

2011-10-18T06:38:00.000-07:00

My little love,

Do you know how truly loved you are?! Last Saturday there were a lot of women in our home, all there to celebrate YOU. I woke up on that special day and within the first hour wept 3 times at how overwhelmed I am with everyone's love and support. (Don't worry- you'll learn that sometimes I cry. It's usually a good thing!) It was a beautiful (albeit hot) day full of family, friends, good food, and lots of goodies for you. I was especially excited to get your jogger, high chair, and diaper bag. Your daddy was excited about a cute little vest, a flannel (daddy wears flannels a lot- its going to be your trade mark with him, okay?), and a book about a bear in his underwear.

There is big news to share this week. We are moving! It's kind of crazy to think about moving right now, at 8 months pregnant, but I am so excited. You get to grow up where your daddy grew up! He is going to show you all the good hiding spots and tell you stories about how he used to jump from the second story into a pile of pillows. Don't get any ideas- he and your uncle JJ were a little crazy. Anyhow, we're hoping to move in a couple weeks. It's a good thing, too, because there's currently a mountain of diapers flowing from your room. Where, oh where, would I have put all of your beautiful things? Now we will have plenty of room to spread out.

Speaking of spreading out, can you please keep your feet to yourself? Just kidding, but really. Your little feet are always right up in my ribs. I like knowing that you are growing healthy and strong. Last Friday I even saw your face again in the ultrasound. You are one handsome little mister. And you're mine. Whoa...

All my love,

Momma

around here.

2011-10-17T10:12:00.001-07:00

There's been lots goin' on. So much so, that I haven't really had the time and energy to blog. But not to worry, everyone! Baby and I are doing wonderfully. Here are a few updates on our lives:

Graham. I have 2 appointments a week- bummer. But that means 1 ultrasound a week! Totally worth it. Can a little 4 pound baby possibly bring me any more joy? I'm going to say yes, yes he can, because this is proven on a daily basis. Can I just say baby hiccups are the sweetest thing ever? He is still head down, which makes this momma a happy one. Oh, and we learned the best news ever today at my appointment. During my ultrasound the doctor noted that his little chest is moving up and down. She said that this is pretty abnormal, but it means that his lungs are getting really developed. My heart must have swelled to twice its size with pride for my boy. Mature lungs. Ah!

Our home. Well, it's official. We're moving. It's all been new news within the past 8 days and boy, has my mind been spinning. We just practically finished Graham's room, and now we're outta here. Kinda crazy. But we're extremely blessed by an opportunity to move into Danny's childhood home. It is a larger home, less rent (woo hoo to refinancing), and more space for us to stretch out a little bit. Danny is looking forward to raising his son in the home he grew up in. I'm looking forward to things like central heat & a/c, multiple bathrooms, and a larger space for entertaining! I'm all nest-y and can hardly wait to get this show on the road (which won't happen for another couple weeks). Anyway, if you're looking to rent in the Ontario area, let me know! Our little blue house will be ready to rent Dec 1. Let me know if you're interested.

My shower. You guys. I had the most beautiful baby shower this weekend. Graham's aunties, grandmas, and my close friends threw it for me and I was completely blown away. Pictures and details will be coming soon. I am still utterly overwhelmed and feeling so, so, so blessed by it all.

I'll be back tomorrow which a 32 week (32 week?!?!?) picture of me and my boy.

31 weeks.

2011-10-10T08:50:00.000-07:00

Graham,

Lately the songs of Harry Connick, Jr. have been flowing through our home. Your daddy and I dance nearly everyday, although this not-so-little-anymore bump of mine is starting to get in the way! (Graham sandwich!!!) The fall candles are lit and the cool mornings and evenings are here for the season. This is one of my favorite times of the year, and it is also a beautiful time to be pregnant with you. I couldn't be happier at the end of the day than when I'm snuggled in a blanket with a cup of peppermint hot chocolate in hand and my feet in your daddy's lap.

The season isn't the only thing that's changing around here. Your daddy and I have a lot of changes coming up in our lives in the next few weeks. Lucky for us, things will be settled down again for a few weeks before you come and join us on the outside. I'm trying to stay calm and allow the shalom of Christ to wash over me. The Lord is constantly teaching me to rely on him, his strength, and his great will for our lives. I'll tell you one thing, son- God has continuously provided for our family. His faithfulness truly does reach beyond the skies.

Today I had my first non-stress test, which I'll be going to the hospital for twice a week. You were a sleepy boy this morning and they had to wake you up so they could record your movements! The kind nurses said you are doing great in there- your fluids are normal and you are still head down. I know you've still got room in there to move around a bit, but please hold your headstand position for a couple more months! I am so proud of you.

I love you forever!

Momma

& on a side note.

2011-10-06T08:25:00.000-07:00

how incredibly good does a cheeseburger sound? with friends*? and ranch for dipping?

or a bean and cheese burrito? with chips and salsa? and sour cream?

or a big fat donut. the pink one. with sprinkles.

or I know! A chicken sandwich from Jack in the Box. With an oreo shake on the side.

Who. am. I???? Oh goodness gracious...please don't let me eat all that crap. Am thankful I haven't been dwelling on this junk for the past 30 weeks. I can feel myself growing larger just at the thought of it all. Off to go eat a banana...just in case, you know, I happen upon a burrito later in the day. Evens things out, right? Right?????

*Obviously, I meant fries here. But friends is what was typed. So I'm leaving it. Sounds cute. Maybe, if husband takes me for a burger and fries this weekend, I'll order it as "a burger and friends".

sheep.

2011-10-06T07:05:00.000-07:00

Tuesday I came home to one of the sweetest packages that ever happened upon my porch. It was from my friend Kaylyn (yep-same name!) from North Carolina, the owner of Dunlap Love, the mom extraordinaire, the prayer warrior, and my dear friend. Well, this friend of mine is going to Mexico City next week and has spent countless hours making these sweet little sheep for orphans. 60, to be exact. What a gift.

Anyhow, ~~my package~~ Graham's package consisted of little bath towels, outfits, and a sheep of his very own. I can't wait to tell him the story of his sheep's maker and how there are many orphans in Mexico who have a similar softie.

Thank you, my friend! I love you and I love this little sheep. I am blessed.

maternity: my favorites.

2011-10-05T06:49:00.000-07:00

As I shared earlier, my friend Christa from Jae Photography took some pictures of us last Friday. She really captured some of our everyday life around our home and our favorite coffee shop. I love them all so much I can hardly stand it. Here are my favorites:

30 weeks.

2011-10-04T07:29:00.000-07:00

Hello my sweet boy!

30 weeks- we've made it 3/4 of the way there, son! Looking at this picture makes me one happy lady. It's me and my two boys- the loves of my life. My heart truly is full. As my tummy gets bigger, my love for you and your dad grows right along with it. I love your movements...even the ones that take my breath away! This Sunday we laid in bed and felt your hiccups for a good 10 minutes. My poor baby!

This past weekend we took some maternity photos and they turned out so beautifully. It is special that we get to capture this sweet season of our little family. Some things we have been doing lately include gardening, working on your room, and speed walking. When I say speed walking I mean speed walking! This momma of yours can move! I must look pretty silly speed walking, being all front-heavy and all, but it is good exercise for us. I am still feeling great out here.

Our friends had a baby boy one week ago. We got to see them in the hospital and he is so precious. Holding your little friend was just one more reminder that you'll be here before we know it. Your daddy and I keep talking about how ecstatic we are to have you in our arms. As excited as we are for you, we are going to try to enjoy the next 10 weeks of having you in my belly. Even though at times it will be hard to watch our baby boy get bigger, we want you to grow up nice and strong. We will savor every delicious morsel of your life!

I love you sweet one,

Momma

iota design.

2011-10-03T08:52:00.000-07:00

Danny and I have been searching for the perfect art pieces for Graham's room for a while now. We wanted something fun, colorful, and kid-friendly. Well, this weekend we found just that from Oliver Lake's Etsy shop Iota Illustration! (Side note: how seriously cool is the name Oliver Lake?!?!?) We had to pick out two for above his bookcase, and boy was it a challenge to limit ourselves. Here are a lot of the ones we liked. You'll have to wait until his room is finished to see which ones we chose!

last of DC.

2011-09-29T07:38:00.000-07:00

After posting our video I forgot to carry on with our photos! Here are the last of our pictures from our DC holiday:

Squishing.

(This was taken directly after a crazy 10 minute rainstorm that we got caught in. I was so grateful it was finally over that I stood straight up, bonked my head on a tree branch, and was left with a nice little cut to prove it. I cried...)

I love these boys of mine.

Pre-storm love.

Yours truly. (This is my I-really-don't-want-to-take-this-picture smile)

1. The Potomac River

2. My pilot

3. Jenga & little hands

4. Plane with teeth

5. All you can ask for Taffy from Candi's Candies

6. MLK Jr.

7. Smithsonian Institute

8. D holding the Washington Monument

9. President Lincoln

10. A serious game of Corn Hole

11. All smiles

12. A seriously good burger

real simple.

2011-09-28T11:21:00.000-07:00

Do you subscribe to Real Simple? I do, I do! It's my yearly birthday present from my sis-in-law. The gift that keeps on giving. Hollah!

Anyhow, as much as I love when my magazine gets squished through my little built in mail slot, I feel like the recipes lately have been less, well...simple. Anyone hear me?

I found two this week that I am trying, though! The first was this cheese tortellini with roasted mushrooms and butternut squash. (You know, in celebration of the butternut-squash-sized babe inside me right now!) Except, I made it the "simple" way, replacing Parmesan for fontina and using dried herbs instead of fresh (although I'm sure fresh would be incredible- I like spinning my wheel of herbs until I find the perfect concoction). The turnout? A success!

& tomorrow we're making these shrimp tacos. Not that it's anything that glamorous, I just never thought of making shrimp tacos myself (Note: I am new to the shrimp-eating world). However, I'll probably skip the frying this time around to honor my recent heartburn tendencies. Shrimp on the barbie will do just fine.

What have you been cooking these days? This momma needs some recipes. Preferably, real simple ones!

profile.

2011-09-27T07:15:00.000-07:00

My little munckin's profile, somewhat blocked by his left hand. Is that a thumb sucker I see? Or maybe he was just deep in though, like his Daddy likes to think.

Yesterday I sewed in our back room while Danny sat in this chair (that is sadly yet to be recovered) and read to me from this book. Did you know that C.S. Lewis wrote a science fiction series!? It's my first book of this sort, and I am sort of all about it. We read and sewed until it was much too late. I love getting lost in my husband's voice, the rocking back and forth of the iron, and the clever thoughts of Mr. Lewis.

Anyhow, last night we were lying in bed watching the show (you know, the kick, stretch, and jab show) and either a bum or head poked straight out on my left side. Whoa. Pregnancy has been so many things: beautiful, wonderful, challenging, and sometimes just plain weird. I wouldn't change it for the world.

29 weeks.

2011-09-26T08:01:00.000-07:00

Hello my sweet boy!

The season is changing over here and I couldn't be more grateful for the cooler, overcast weather. The leaves are changing, too! I can't wait to walk you around the neighborhood at this time next year to show you all of the beautiful colors that come out in fall. I am pretty positive that you'll love it.

This past week your daddy and I got to have another ultrasound! You were very serious about keeping your face blocked from us...were you sucking your thumb in there?! (It's okay if you were- I was a thumb sucker, too.) Seeing you is one of our favorite pastimes- what will we ever do when you're actually out here with us??? I am guessing that a clean house and washed dishes just won't matter quite as much when you're around for us to sit and stare at for hours. Anyway, the doctor is very happy with your growth and says that you're about 2 pounds and 10 ounces right now, a weight that we're hoping you'll triple by your birthday! You are so beautiful, my son. Keep up all of the hard work in there.

I am feeling more and more pregnant by the day. (Look at last week's picture- we've grown so much in one week!) I started having heartburn, which is no fun at all. But other than that, I feel so blessed to say we are both doing wonderfully. Your kicks are so hard that sometimes I gasp! Your daddy and I watch you move and laugh and laugh at the thought of you doing the worm or the wave in there. One of my favorite things is being at church on Sunday mornings. You wiggle and bounce the entire service! There are miraculous things happening in there, Graham. Thank you for being a reminder of God's great love and faithfulness.

All my love baby boy,

Momma

two.

2011-09-23T06:55:00.000-07:00

Can you believe that this teeny tiny pup:

is now two??????

Happy birthday to our Denver Bear!

2011-09-22T08:43:00.000-07:00

One of the most incredible things about ministry is watching students grow up. To see them graduate high school and go off to college to work toward their dreams is as close to a momma-moment that I have been able to experience as of yet. While I watch them grow into adults and see them use their gifts for the Lord, pride and joy pretty much ooze out of me.

So it has been with Christa, one of my former students and leaders. She is just beautiful and talented and brings glory to God in the midst of it all. This new little blog header is c/o the ever so talented Christa Jae. Thank you, my dear friend. You are cherished.

hunger.

2011-09-21T07:24:00.000-07:00

Since day 1 of being pregnant, I have been hungry. And when I say hungry, I mean hungry. And word on the street says that the nursing season isn't going to ease up in the tummy grumbling department. Enter scene: snacks.

I have always been a snacker- preferring to graze on this and that throughout the day as opposed to eating large meals. So this is my snacking list. Hopefully it sparks some ideas if you are a fellow snacker, too.

Here are things I have loved the past 28 weeks:

-peanut butter on toast

-string cheese

-baby carrots

-yogurt covered pretzels

-Bolthouse Farms' Green Goodness smoothie (pictured above)

-tortilla chips & salsa or hummus or guacamole (depending on my mood)

-sweet potatoes

-Greek yogurt drizzled with honey and topped with homemade granola

-peanut butter & jelly sandwich (I am a 2:1 ratio of peanut butter to jelly kinda girl.)

-Nature Valley granola bars

-homemade popcorn

-half of an avocado either by itself or smashed onto a piece of toast

-a smoothie (a banana, yogurt, frozen fruit & splash of orange juice blended)

-chicken salad on bread or lettuce (recipe coming soon)

-hard boiled egg

-brown rice & quinoa (Fresh & Easy sells it in a little pouch that takes 90 seconds to heat up!)

-Granny Smith apples, either alone or paired with either peanut butter or cheddar cheese

-a small bowl of cereal (the good-for-you stuff, not the sugar-y stuff)

-Somersaults - love the salt & pepper or Santa Fe types

-lots of fruit: bananas, grapes, watermelon, etc.

That's my list. So please share, what are your favorite snacks???

28 weeks.

2011-09-20T08:16:00.000-07:00

Hello my boy,

Welcome to the third trimester! This is the last and final stretch (no pun intended) of our belly journey together. That means only 12(ish) more weeks until you're here in our arms! While I can hardly wait for that day, being pregnant with you is one of the most beautiful and incredible gifts I could have ever imagined. We are one- you and I- and I love having you with me always. Your little jabs, kicks, and rolls make me smile like nothing else.

This past weekend your daddy and I had our last birth class (for now). We learned about things like the stages of labor, medical interventions, and the post-birth process. We left full of a lot of information, but also a lot of excitement for what's to come! The past 28 weeks have been an entirely new learning process for daddy and me. We love learning about you and what you're up to in there. For example, now you have eyelashes! You're also starting to accumulate all of that chub that we will love to tickle and kiss. Keep it up, honey!

I think it's about time you learn about this little family you're a part of. About your momma- I make a mean batch of pancakes, fall asleep during movies, get excited about cold weather, and love all things golden yellow, striped, and lemon-flavored. About your daddy- he can spin a pillow on one finger, is a rockstar when it comes to playing the guitar, loves to garden, and reads at least a book a month. Oh, and one other thing about this little family of ours? We love each other. A whole lot. I think the three of us are setting records here, my little love!

I love you Graham!

Momma

things.

2011-09-15T10:27:00.000-07:00

-Meet Andy. Graham's giraffe. Some may think animal taxidermy in a nursery is just creepy. I, however, adore it. And so will Graham. And if by chance he doesn't, Andy will totally make his way into our room where he will watch me sleep and wink at me every now and again. Okay. So maybe it's creepy. I still love it.

-Last night was our first youth group of the year and, boy, was it a blast! I love what I do & am so thankful that I get to serve alongside such incredible leaders (including my love). Who knew junior high and high school students would be a part of what makes my life go round. (And who knew it would take me 2 full minutes to think of the word part. Oi!)

-I failed my 1-hour glucose test. Major bummer. Will be taking the 3-hour one tomorrow, if I can get my butt out of bed early enough! Going til noon without food or water is not an option. ever. again.

-We had an ultrasound appointment this morning, but it got postponed til next Thursday. What's with making pregnant women wait for things like food, water, and seeing their baby's face?!?!

-It sounds strange, but I am getting used to old men smiling at me. I used to frown and think What are you looking at you old pervert? Of course, they read my mind and made it clear that they were looking straight at this basketball of mine. So now I smile and rub my belly for them (you know, so they can live vicariously through me...because no old men need to be touching my stomach).

-Last night Danny told me I have never been more beautiful than now, as I carry his child. Love that man of mine. Especially because I was wearing a too-small-for-me t shirt with wild hair and could barely say Thank you in between bites of chips & salsa. (He, by the way, won the bet. My belly button is still an innie. For now...)

-& lastly, did you catch Up All Night last night? We did, we did!!! So thankful that it's on at 10-just in time for us to be at home and in our jammers with a snack in hand. The perfect way to de-compress from our evening with 80 teenagers, in my opinion.

coffee + clouds.

2011-09-13T08:07:00.001-07:00

Pretty sure that these two things mean it's going to be a beautiful day.

27 weeks.

2011-09-12T07:15:00.000-07:00

To our son,

It's momma and daddy here! This is our home in the background and that little furball is your best-friend-to-be, Denver. We had an exciting weekend here. First, we registered for a lot of really neat stuff for you! It was quite a process and dad got a little tired, but we were happy to be picking out your things. You are going to love all your new stuff! Your room is coming together nicely, too. We even hung Andy*, who you will come to love. Our next project is a picture collage above your crib- we can't wait to get started on it!

We also had our first birthing class this weekend. We learned how to tell when momma is in labor with you and how to breathe through contractions. (It's not as complicated as people have made it out to be in the past!) Momma also learned some breastfeeding basics, like how to hold you and how to make sure you're getting plenty to eat. We're already praying for an easy delivery. Please do what you can in the coming weeks to make sure you're nice to momma on the way out.

Yesterday we remembered a very important day in our nation's history. Ten years ago New York and Washington D.C. were attacked and the war on terrorism began. It's forever changed America and one day you'll read about it in all of your history books. But first, let's read about The Very Hungry Caterpillar and Goodnight Moon.

Stay safe in there, our little love. We are so proud of you.

Love,

Daddy & Momma

*To my blog readers, you will soon come to know Andy, too!

2011-09-09T07:53:00.000-07:00

Today I take my glucose test. (As I type this, I am so hungry and thirsty I can hardly stand it!)

& tonight we register.

I tried to do my "homework" to prepare for tonight's expedition. I pre-registered with our information on-line, printed off the "what you need" lists, crossed off the things I don't think we'll need, and added a few that I think we will. Then it hit me.

I have no idea what in the world I'm doing.

I don't know what half of the things on this list are (neck wings? convertible car seat? what the...?), and to be honest with you, I felt overwhelmed, incompetent, and scared for the first time in my pregnancy. It wasn't at all about the registry, though that's what provoked the breakdown. I just finally realized that no "preparation" on my part is going to truly prepare me for what's to come.

So I spent the next 15 minutes pacing the church's nursery blubbering on the phone to my sister (literally...I'm pretty sure she had no idea what I was crying about for the first 60 seconds of our conversation), dabbing at my mascara runs, and holding tissues in between each of my arm pits (it was hot in there).

She told me sweet things about how every momma-to-be feels this way, that no one really knows what they're doing, and that once Graham is here it will all become more natural than I ever thought possible. She encouraged me and told me that I am going to be an amazing mother. And that our little family will be just fine. And that I'm not alone.

So I stopped crying and took a breath and said a prayer. I felt Graham kick me good and hard, as if to say It's okay, momma- we'll learn together. And today, I once again feel empowered for the journey that's ahead of me. (the child-raising, not the registering.)

This morning there are a few things that I'm grateful for:

-for my big sister, who has always been one step ahead of me in life but has always walked beside me

-that God created me just as I am, insecurities and all, so I can depend on his power to cover my weaknesses

-for the hope that these mother instincts truly will kick in once that babe is in my arms

-and for the fact that this happened yesterday afternoon and not tonight in the diaper rash cream aisle

Hope your weekend is full of things you're grateful for, too.

old & beautiful.

2011-09-08T06:50:00.000-07:00

My aunt put some old family photos on Facebook this past week and I have been drooling over them since. There is something so, so beautiful about these. They make me smile and cry- all at the same time.

My Grandma...isn't she gorgeous?

My aunt with my dad. I see so much of myself in this picture of him!

My grandma & grandpa, ever so stylish and in love.

My grandma, her hair, my aunt, uncle, and dad (in that order).

A 3-year-old me on the day of my birthday party.

My grandma & grandpa again...so beautiful.

I wish my dad & grandparents were here now to see me & Danny & Graham, but looking at these beautiful pictures will have to do for now.

xo.

captured.

2011-09-07T09:40:00.001-07:00

Our Holiday from Kaylyn Unterkofler on Vimeo.

We captured bits & pieces of our trip with the 8mm app for the iPhone. And boy, am I glad we did.

Things you'll see:

the Air & Space museum, complete with a space shuttle & Air France plane (ee!)

the littles feeding ducks on the Potomac

a little room full of a whole lot of Unterkofler's singing to Aunt Loretta

Uncle Carl mowing the lawn...a clip that makes me giggle & giggle

my favorite (ok, my only) nephew, who knows how to dance to Michael Jackson like no other

a fist-pumping husband

a really fast pup pushing a ball around the lawn

Danny rocking at corn hole

Washington Monument

President Lincoln

Civil War Memorial

the end.

26 weeks.

2011-09-06T18:47:00.000-07:00

My son,

We spent the past 5 days in Virginia, where all of your Pop Pop's side of the family lives! Your great uncle Ed flew us out to celebrate your great aunt Loretta's 60th birthday. It was such a treat to be surrounded by all of our family. We did a lot of fun stuff on our own, too. We spent a day in Alexandria by the Potomac River, went to an air and space museum, and spent a day in Washington D.C. I promise that one day soon we'll take you there to experience it for yourself!

You are getting bigger by the day and I marvel at the reality that we are both going to keep growing for 3 1/2 more months. I saw a lot of pictures of your daddy as a little boy this weekend and it makes me so excited to see what you'll look like as a little guy. Will you have blue eyes or brown? Blond hair or brown or red? Freckles? Dimples? Will you be small or tall? (I bet tall- your daddy is 6'4 and I am 5'8!) However you look, you will be our idea of perfection.

Things on the outside are still going well, although by the end of the day I feel like a little old lady with a sore back. Other than that, I have luckily avoided swelling and some of the other unfortunate pregnancy side effects. I was on a burger strike for a few weeks, but that ended while we were on our trip. Boy, was your daddy glad! He sure does love a good cheeseburger and I'm sure you will, too.

I love you,

Momma

Hiya, September!

2011-09-01T07:15:00.000-07:00

You guys. It's September!

September!

As a student, I always made little milestones that I looked forward to...you know, to break up the semester and make the end seem a little closer. My milestones would be, "after the midterm" or "after this 30 page paper" or "late October". They would come, they would go, and then I knew I was in the final stretch.

Well, September was one of my milestones for this babe. It's the start of fall (sort of). It's the first of the "-ber" months (the last of which will be birth month!). It's the month that will contain the beginning of my last trimester. And did I mention it's the start of Christmas shopping for us? (My goal is to have everything purchased/wrapped by Dec 1. 3 down as of yesterday, bay-bay!)

September, I am so glad you're here.

In other news, I woke up this morning. Did you hear that? I woke up this morning. Not in the middle of the night. That's right, folks! This mama made is through the night without a zombie walk to the toilet! My first thought this morning was Did I really make it through the night?!?!? and then Whoa, what is that thing by my ribs?!?!?! Seems that our little mister is making his way up north. My bladder welcomes the change.

Well, while G is moving up North, we'll be headed east for the next 5 days. I am looking forward to a little holiday with our family! I say cupcakes and bonfires and lots and lots of pictures are in order.

Have a safe weekend all!

bitter sweet.

2011-08-31T07:27:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was a rough day for me. One of my best friends lost her father on Monday, and it just broke my heart. He was a good man- perhaps one of the best I've known. He loved his family, worked hard, enjoyed life, and had a voice and laugh that is permanently etched in my mind. Even as I type this I have a smile on my face but a tear in my eye. Life is so bitter sweet at times.

Today it's an early morning of porch life, devotions, perfect pancakes, running (him), pilates (me), and cool, crisp air. Going to work hard and love my loved ones extra hard today and laugh until I cry.

Make it a good one.

xo.

July 30.

2011-08-30T07:12:00.000-07:00

Remember when I mentioned that D & I were in our friends wedding? Here are the pictures, just a few weeks later. Maddy was absolutely stunning and Kevin was so in love. Oh man, the way he looked at her made me tear up throughout the whole night. Love is so so so beautiful.

K&M

The boys. (the bearded one is hot stuff)

Me helping put on Maddy's veil. Which just so happened to be mine! So special.

The crew. Including my very awkwardly low squat. I almost tipped over after this shot.

Oh, and look who it is!

Kevin & Maddy, thank you for sharing such a special and beautiful day with us. We were so honored to stand on that stage with you.

xo.

25 weeks.

2011-08-29T08:01:00.000-07:00

Graham Lewis,

It's hard to believe that as the weeks are passing by, you're that much closer to being in our arms. Only 15 more weeks to go...15 more Sunday mornings of worship, 15 more grocery trips on Saturdays, and 15 more laundry days. 15 seems like nothing at all! You're two pounds now and the size of a cantaloupe. As you grow you are pushing my belly button further and further out. Your daddy and I have a bet going - I think that in 2 weeks my belly button will go from an innie to an outie, but your daddy thinks it will take longer than that. We'll see who's right! (A donut is on the line for the winner!)

Yesterday afternoon your daddy and I met a very sweet woman named Kym. She is going to help us bring you into this world! We're taking our birthing classes with her in a few weeks, and then we will have two more meetings with her to talk about what we want your birthday to look like! She already loves you and is praying for you as if you were her own grandbaby. We are so grateful for her to be in our lives and we are especially looking forward to her being our help and support in the coming months and on the day you decide to make your grand entrance.

Toward the end of this week your daddy and I are going on an airplane! We have a special little trip planned. It was a close call- my doctor said if we were two weeks further along, we wouldn't be able to go! Your daddy and I are looking forward to a little unexpected getaway. There are a lot of people on the other side of that plane ride who are going to rub that belly of mine in excitement of you! You are our two pound bundle of joy.

I love you, baby boy!

Momma

good morning moon.

2011-08-26T07:29:00.000-07:00

*The beautiful moon sliver, spotted at 3:30 while letting a little furball out to take care of business.

The weeks seem to be slipping away quickly, one by one. I wonder if it's because it's still summer and everything seems to go by more quickly when the sun in shining. Or, I wonder if it's because I sleep a good 11 hours a day, including my ever so reviving naps.

Either way. Whoa.

Danny and I have been especially busy lately. Until tonight. We're going out to dinner, shopping for new shirts for D (& maybe one for G and/or me), making a Target run, and ending the night plopped on the couch with a movie in the player, my feet on Dan's lap, our babe in my belly, and our pup by my side.

Life is quick. Enjoy it. Happy weekend!

up all night.

2011-08-25T14:35:00.000-07:00

This is the preview I was telling you guys about the other day...the one that may or may not have made me laugh until I cried. & also the one that may or may not have made me pee my pants. Oh my goodness - I can't wait for this show.

PS Poor Mr. Waffles.

love.

2011-08-24T10:34:00.001-07:00

I really love my little family.

The end.

i forget & i remember.

2011-08-23T08:01:00.000-07:00

Lately, what I forget:

-My pin number at the bank...after nearly 10 years. I literally had to change it to a new one. I am clueless.

-What I went into the kitchen for. Was it for a glass of water? Some juice? The scissors? Oh well, better just grab a fudgsicle until I remember.

-How to make alfredo sauce, even though I made it not too long ago for this recipe.

-What announcements I was supposed to give on Sunday morning. While standing in front of the entire congregation. Yipes! Thank goodness I have a gracious church family.

-What else was supposed to make it on this list.

Lately, what I remember:

-Nearly all of my high school French. I mean- the videos, the skits, the songs, etc. When I am with Denver alone, I speak to him in French nearly 1/2 of the time. When Danny asks me a question, sometimes I think of my response in French. I feel like I can turn the language on and off in my mind. What is this about!? Quick!!! Someone take me to France! C'est possible, non?

24 weeks.

2011-08-22T07:36:00.000-07:00

My baby boy,

Well, we're technically 6 months along now! You've grown a lot the past 2 weeks alone and I am so proud of you. I can feel the effects on my body- my back is sore and I am getting out of breath more quickly. A dear friend of mine showed me a video about how you are shifting my organs around in there- no wonder I feel the way I do!

Your daddy had a dream about you this weekend. He told me all about it with a sparkle in his eyes- a dream! about his boy! I have a feeling you two are going to be best buds. He has been so good to me lately- rubbing my back and feet and getting me snacks when I am hungry. By the way, I feel like I am starting to enter the hungry stage again. I'm pretty sure I need to go back from 3 meals to 4 smaller meals throughout the day. When everything tastes like heaven, I am in no way complaining! Lately I can eat sweet potatoes, carrots, chips and salsa, grapes, smoothies, and popcorn like nobody's business.

This weekend I played a Michael Jackson video game with your cousin. The bass was pretty strong and I could tell you could hear it. While I was dancing (& huffing & puffing), he said, "Auntie may have a baby in her belly, but she still knows how to rock and roll!" Your daddy laughed- I am going to guess that was his way of agreeing.

I love you to the moon and back!

Love,

your momma who still knows how to rock and roll

new dresser.

2011-08-18T09:42:00.000-07:00

Things are coming together over here!

(sorry for the grainy photo.)

in my arms.

2011-08-16T10:24:00.000-07:00

As you know, this is the song Danny and I used for our first dance at our wedding (the same he sang to me before he proposed...). Well, on our anniversary a few weeks ago we danced to it first thing in the morning. Midway through the song, I stopped and told him we now share it with Graham!

This morning we were lying in bed drinking coffee (well, he was drinking coffee...) and watching our boy wiggle around. I pulled up this song on my phone and pressed it up against my belly. He immediately stopped moving until it was over. He then kept bouncing around as if to say, "More, momma, more!"

Last night I had a dream that Graham called me on the phone. But, it wasn't baby Graham- it was little boy Graham. His voice was the sweetest I have heard. I can't wait to hear him make sounds...but for now, I really do just dream of holding him in my arms.

23 weeks.

2011-08-15T07:38:00.000-07:00

Hello my sweet baby boy,

This is us in your bedroom! 23 weeks down, 17 to go! I can't believe that in less that 4 months you'll be in our arms. Right now your head is down to the right and your legs are on the left side of my tummy. Your kicks are so hard and strong and I believe it's one of the most miraculous things I have ever felt! Sometimes I lay on my back and your daddy and I watch my stomach jolt up and down as your feet press against me. We've said it a thousand times and we'll say it again:

we love you so incredibly much.

I get asked the question, "How are you feeling?" very regularly these days. I am still feeling great! I am sleeping and getting enough rest. My back hurts now and again, but your daddy rubs it for me to make me feel better. I think this past weekend was my last time going to the grocery store alone. I need your strong daddy to help me carry things to the car and into the house! One day you'll be my little helper, too!

This weekend your daddy picked up your dresser! Your little room is really starting to come together, and that makes me a happy momma. Also, a very sweet friend of your auntie's gave us a huge bag of 0-9 month clothes, so last night we sifted through them and talked about how little you're going to be. We've got some major growing ahead of us these next few weeks- are you ready?! Right now you're the size of an ear of corn, but I think we can do better than that!

Grow, baby, grow!

I love you,

Momma

the civil wars.

2011-08-13T13:11:00.000-07:00

This past week a dear friend of mine introduced me to The Civil Wars. Have you heard them? I just can't stop listening...they are so amazing (Graham seems to agree). And- good news- you can download a live album for free!

Okay- I just had to share. Back to our Saturday.

Carry on!

we ran away.

2011-08-12T06:58:00.000-07:00

-Danny often sends me a text that says, "Want to run away together?" Yesterday I replied with, "Yes! Beach tonight?" And so beach we did. It was a beautiful evening with my boys (I love saying that).

-My leg hair isn't growing. I'm not complaining at all, but really? What a strange pregnancy side effect.

-Today my mom is coming over and she is going to help me organize the closets in our home to make sure there is room for the babes. I love this house, but storage space sure is hard to come by...

-You guys. Have you seen previews for "Up All Night", the new show coming in fall? I literally laugh until I cry/almost pee my pants every time I see the commercials. I'm not sure if it's really that funny, or if it's just these crazy hormones of mine. (This is your brain...this is your brain while pregnant...) Either way, I can't wait to see it. It airs on Wednesdays- youth group nights- but there must be a way!

-This weekend we get to pick up Graham's dresser! I can't wait to show you all...

-See Dan's lip in this bottom picture? Did I mention that we spent one evening this week in urgent care getting stitches inside his lip? Oi...but we're looking up this week, right? (Note to self: must look at camera, not as self...)

-Happy weekend!

panini time.

2011-08-10T11:42:00.000-07:00

So you guys. You have to try this panini. It is so the perfect summer dinner. (along with fruit and chips, of course)

It's the Pioneer Woman's grilled chicken and roasted pepper panini, with my own little changes. I made it for two instead of four, of course. And I left out the peppers because, honestly, roasting peppers really isn't exactly on my summer to-do list. Oh and I used cheddar because I am a cheddar girl. & I used only one slice per sandwich instead of two, because while I love cheddar, I don't deem it necessary.

You'll need:

1 large chicken breast, or 4 small tenderloins

4 whole sun dried tomatoes (or 1T of sun dried pesto, to make it easier on yourself)

1 1/2 T of regular pesto

1 T olive oil

1 T lemon juice (I was out of lemons so I used OJ and it worked beautifully)

kosher salt & ground pepper

a large dollop of mayo

4 slices of bread

2 slices of cheese (cheddar! cheddar! cheddar!)

2 T of butter

-mix your pestos, olive oil, lemon juice, s & p

-put half of this mixture in a baggie with your chicken and let marinate (the longer the better)

-mix the other half with your mayo and cover for later

-grill your chicken (or send your husband outside to do it)

-lay out your bread and spread with your mayo spread

-spread butter (I go thin here) on other side

-put 2 of your slices in a pan butter down and top with cheese & chicken & other slice (we used a panini pan here, but really anything will work)

slice & serve with food friends (I recommend chips & fruit during the summer!)

enjoy!

22 weeks.

2011-08-09T11:54:00.000-07:00

This week, a note from Graham's daddy:

Well, my son… you are 22 weeks old! Your mother and I are so proud of all the growing you are doing. And, after waiting for what seemed like forever, I can finally feel you kick around in your momma’s tummy. All that kicking makes me excited to watch you play soccer one day. I am sure you will get “red face” because of all the running but that just means you are playing hard (I get red face too).

Graham, we are going to do so much cool stuff once you make your entrance into the world! I am going to play with you are the time… seriously all the time. I am going to pick you up and hold you in the air and tell you how much I love you. I will carry you a lot until you are big enough to walk. Then, I will hold you hand and we’ll take walks around the neighborhood as a family. Your mom and I will show all the neighborhood dogs and the homes we really like. You will get to watch Den Den sniff everything and bark at other dogs. Oh, and speaking of Denver, he wanted me to give you this note:

Dear Graham,

My name is Denver and I am the family dog. Dad is my “person” but he said you can be my “person” when he is at work. We are going to be best friends. I’ll show you all the places to hide in the house. I’ll follow you everywhere and chase anything you throw. Just so you know, I like bones, treats, walks and catching Frisbees.

Love,

Denver Bear

Mom and I are getting your room all ready for you. We go in there a lot to hang out and talk about you. You fill our lives with joy and I want to say thank you for that. Keep doing what you’re doing Graham! You are 1 lb right now -- boo ya!!

Love,

Daddy

ups & downs.

2011-08-08T06:12:00.001-07:00

-car breaking down on the side of the freeway
-an overheated pup who had to drink water from a mug
-coming home exhausted on Saturday evening, only to find Denver had stomach problems and made a mess throughout our bedroom, which took an hour to clean
-waking up every hour on Saturday night to let Denver out to take care of his business
-shattering one of my favorite cups

+finding the perfect dresser for Graham and it being within our budget
+worship on Sunday morning and, really, all weekend
+taking 2 of our nieces out to a special birthday breakfast

+digging myself a little hole for my bump and taking a nap on the beach on my stomach (!)
+watching the men (and one little lady) in my life play a little volleyball game
+spending the weekend with my love

+feeling Graham kick all the time

I'm ready to keep looking up this week!

rough days.

2011-08-05T13:11:00.001-07:00

The past 2 days have been lame. First, someone hit me while I was backing out of a parking spot yesterday. (Thankfully, both us & our cars were okay.) Then, I tripped over Denver this morning and fell really hard. Although Denver made me fall, he also caught my fall and my stomach landed directly on his poor body. I was upset and nervous about my baby (Denver is fine). My doctor fit me in this morning and, although my knees are skinned and bruised, Graham is doing just fine.

Anyhow, I hope this weekend will start looking up. I have a night in with my man tonight, a special birthday breakfast and a day at the beach in El Segundo tomorrow, and a Shabbat on Sunday.

Cheers to rough days getting better.

xo.

first blanket.

2011-08-04T18:42:00.000-07:00

check!

first cleats.

2011-08-04T07:52:00.000-07:00

Next Thursday is my oldest niece's 5th birthday. (That's her cute little tutu butt in the background there...) 5!!! I can hardly believe it. I remember the day she was born like it was just yesterday. Our sweet girl is turning into a little lady! She is kind, funny, and a definite leader of her two younger sisters.

When my sister gave me this idea for her birthday, I jumped at it! I started playing soccer at 4, so my first cleats were about this size. I am one proud auntie to have bought her her first pair of soccer cleats! I even told the cashier. Ha.

d-g-m.

2011-08-03T09:11:00.000-07:00

Is this not the sweetest thing you've seen? It is a gift from one of my dearest friends Steph for Graham's room. I love love love it!

Check out her Etsy store loveshout and order some goods of your own!

hands and tight dresses.

2011-08-02T08:09:00.000-07:00

This is a picture of my great grandma Josie and great grandpa Ramiro, circa 1924. Isn't it so beautiful? I wanted to show it to you because you need to look at my grandpa's hands. Those are my aunt's hands and my hands, too! Seriously- it's creepy. Well, in our ultrasound the other day the tech said Graham has long fingers. Isn't that so incredible. I bet they'll look just like his great great grandpa's, his great aunt's, and his momma's. I can't help but wonder what other ways he will resemble me and his daddy.

In other news, I was wearing one of my favorite dresses this morning and had to ask Danny if it was too tight and short. He said no, but we decided to do a sit test anyway. When I sat, all the buttons threatened bursting. So the ultimate answer was yes, it is too tight and short. Ho hum.

21 weeks.

2011-08-01T09:40:00.000-07:00

Hello my sweet boy!

Last night your daddy took me out to dinner to celebrate our 2 year anniversary! While we were waiting for our table a very nice man stood up to offer me his seat. I guess that makes it official- the news that you're on the way is evident to the public now! (It's about time- you're 11 inches long, the size of a banana!) I'm not sure how many times I said thank you, but I know I said it a lot. Pregnant woman really do bring out the best in people.

Daddy and I have been doing a lot of new fun things with you! We read to you a Psalm a day, daddy plays you the guitar and writes you silly little songs, and I sing to you a special song on a daily basis about how much we love you! I also heard you can taste different things through the amniotic fluid, so I'm trying extra hard to make sure you get a taste of all the good stuff...broccoli, almonds, carrots, and chocolate milk! :)

This weekend it rained and it made me imagine what it will be like the first few months of your life. I can't wait to snuggle you and kiss you and dance with you while the rain is coming down outside. Life is so so sweet already, and my heart swells at the knowledge that it is only going to get sweeter from here. You, my little winter baby, are the best thing that has ever happened to us.

I love you!

Momma

lately.

2011-07-28T07:51:00.000-07:00

-We finally got our iPhones. Yipee! We are total instagram-ers. (It's Dan's first form of social network since MySpace and says its his "way of daily blogging")

-Denver is itchier than ever. We're trying him on new medicine this week. Cross your fingers that these ones work! In the meantime, we have socks pulled up around his (hairless) legs to keep him from biting. I call him Totally 80's Denver.

-We scrubbed Grahams room and put in the first few items that we've bought. Oh, and Danny felt him kick this morning for the first time! So precious.

-Still doing prenatal pilates every morning, but I find myself getting a bit bored with the same video. Anyone have any other recommendations?

-My bump is getting bigger! Goodbye, sausage phase. Hello, why, yes, I am pregnant Mrs. Apple Store Worker and, yes, I would like help out to my car!

-We've got a busy weekend. We're both in our dear friends' wedding & all the festivities start tonight. Have you ever been to a dueling piano bar?

-Our 2 year anniversary is also this weekend. Two years!

1. my love.

2. clean floors for Graham.

3. the bump.

4. sam's tp. peeing while pregnant is serious business.

5. hot dog.

6. room in progress.

frisbee.

2011-07-27T08:02:00.000-07:00

My pup & my love.

Den & Dad & Frisbee from Kaylyn Unterkofler on Vimeo.

20 weeks.

2011-07-26T07:52:00.000-07:00

Graham Lewis,

A boy- I knew it!!!

Daddy and I woke up early on Thursday, July 21st, ready to find out what you were. We had a very sweet ultrasound technician who first showed us your femur. Who knew a femur could be so adorable?! Then she showed us your, um, boy parts. Your daddy and I looked at each other and started smiling, laughing, and even crying. The first words out of both of our mouths were, "A boy!!!! Our Graham!!!!"

We chose Graham because it was the one name that we both really, really loved. Neither of us know a Graham, we just really love the name! You are our one and only! And we picked your middle name after C.S. Lewis. Your daddy has been influenced by this author and theologian more than any other, and throughout seminary I read many of his books, too. So that's your name. Graham Lewis. And we're just about shouting it from the rooftops!

We're not the only ones excited about you being a baby boy! Everyone is excited for our family! Your grandma, pop pop, aunties, and uncles can't stop talking about you. And your girl cousins, who were hoping for a girl, are even excited! (And now I have more defense as to why we aren't naming you "Pinkalicious".)

This week I've started reading the Scriptures out loud to you. Can you hear how much Jesus loves us?! This week I've also had my first experience with round ligament pain. Oi!!! It is a dull pain caused by my stretching ligaments and muscles. But it's okay- it means you're growing!

My heart is bursting with love for you, my son.

Love,

Momma

it's a...

2011-07-21T10:20:00.000-07:00

Today we saw our little boy stretching and yawning and all curled up. Our little Graham is healthy, all is well, and we couldn't be happier!

Hallelujah Jesus!

purchased.

2011-07-19T11:37:00.000-07:00

You know, for the babe.

summer dinner.

2011-07-19T07:20:00.000-07:00

In the words of my love, this is where it's at.

Our summer dinner choice, as of late:

sliced cheddar & monterey jack

red pepper whole grain crackers

fresh fruit

toasted & sliced rosemary focaccia bread

salad in balsamic sauce:

sliced cucumbers

sliced avocado

sliced tomatos

mozzarella chunks

sea salt & fresh ground pepper

drizzle with balsamic vinegar & olive oil (I used more than normal for bread dipping!)

Seriously. Yum.

19 weeks.

2011-07-18T11:09:00.000-07:00

Hello my little one,

This morning I got to hear your heartbeat again! It is one of the sweetest sounds I have ever heard. You're now 6 inches long- I can hardly believe it! It seems that just yesterday you were the size of a peppercorn. I am amazed at how you've grown in what seems like such a short amount of time.

So far, things are still going really great on the outside, too. I am sleeping wonderfully with the help of a pillow between my legs and I am able to make it all day without a nap. Our doctor is happy with my weight gain, even if it makes me gasp a little. I have had a couple episodes of morning sickness lately, which is the strangest thing, but other than that I give this whole second trimester two thumb's up.

This week we get to find out if you're a little lady or a little boy in there. I cannot tell you the excitement that we feel in anticipation of such news! Most of our family is voting blue, but many of my friends think pink. I go back and forth on a daily basis. Today? I think boy. Either way, we just want you! Please be cooperative during the ultrasound and, um, spread 'em, okay?

We talk about you with the most dreamy looks in our faces. You are our true sunshine.

We are so madly in love with you!

Momma

room inspiration.

2011-07-15T08:03:00.000-07:00

I thought decorating the baby's room might be a little bit of a challenge. There are 4 doors, 1 large wall heater, and 1 window that make the room unique, but so far so good.

My goal for the room is to make it comfy, cozy, and a place where both Danny, baby, and I will love to spend time. So far, I am leaning toward an eclectic, vintage-y feel. Nothing too theme-y, just a bunch of pieces that we love. A lot more will be added to this inspiration board once we know babe's gender, but this is our start! We just bought the rug last night at a great price...now onto the dressers! :)

you must try this.

2011-07-13T07:32:00.000-07:00

Speaking of good food, oh friends...you must try this:

Chicken Alfredo Pizza

What you'll need:

pizza dough (homemade or store bought)

alfredo sauce:

butter

minced garlic

cream cheese

parmesan cheese

milk

chopped mushrooms

chopped broccoli

grilled chicken

mozzarella cheese

1. Prepare the dough as directed

2. Make your alfredo sauce. I eye-balled this part, but I'll try to share how I did it. Melt 2 T butter and add 2 t minced garlic. Stir for a few minutes. Add 1/3 box of cream cheese and whisk in. Add a splash or two of milk. Finally, stir in about 4 T parmesan. Use a little salt and pepper until it suites your fancy.

3. Pour sauce on dough.

4. Add diced mushrooms and broccoli. Then, add your mozzarella. Finally, top it with your diced chicken.

5. Bake as directed.

6. Enjoy!

my favorite things.

2011-07-13T04:05:00.000-07:00

In honor of The Sound of Music category on Jeapordy last night, here's my song:

French fries and french toast and bagels with cream cheese.
Melon and Doritos and macaroni and cheese.

Slices of lemon loaf, a side of onion rings...

These are a few of my favorite things.

(at least at 4 am.)

You know, it really is a good thing I don't eat everything I crave. Yikes.

18 weeks.

2011-07-11T07:02:00.000-07:00

Hello my darling,

This weekend your Daddy and I did a lot of celebrating. Your Pop Pop got married, which was an especially exciting occasion. We did a lot of dancing and drinking of sparkling cider this weekend to celebrate! We'll tell you more about it when you're bigger, but your sweet Grandma Paula passed away almost four years ago before mommy and daddy met. She was a beautiful woman who loved the Lord and I bet she even prayed for you often. I can't wait to see how you're like her- maybe in the way that you'll stick out your tongue when you concentrate, or you'll ask for a bowl of mint chocolate chip every night. Your daddy misses her so much, but we are so grateful for God's faithfulness in our lives. Your new Nana is evidence of that! She just adores you and is quick to comment on that often. We are so grateful!

Well, you're now the size of a mango! Wow! I am so impressed with how you've grown. My growing tummy and those little kicks you give me are a daily reminder of your increasing strength. I felt you moving around when the piano was being played during Pop Pop's wedding ceremony. I also felt you move when someone offered me a cupcake, as if you were saying Yes, yes she would like one! It makes me smile to imagine you as a musician like your daddy, or as a dessert lover like me. Either way, keep the kicks coming! Your daddy can't wait to feel you from the outside.

This weekend I bought canned peaches and Fudgsicles at the grocery store. While I would never typically buy either of them, I couldn't resist! I also drank pickle juice while putting pickles on my sandwich the other day, and felt overwhelmingly cliche. But wow, it tasted good!

You are so loved.

Love,

your momma

let the festivities begin.

2011-07-07T10:32:00.001-07:00

I love this picture that was taken the day after Danny and I became husband and wife. (The way to go for picture taking- if you ask me!) I love it because it shows just how happy and madly in love we are.

But enough about us...we're in for a wedding-weekend!

This Saturday evening Danny's dad is getting married! Because some of our east-coast family is flying in for the big event, the wedding festivities start tonight.

Then we'll close the weekend with the wedding of our dear friends Dan and Meghan.

I can't wait- I love love!

we lost.

2011-07-06T07:07:00.000-07:00

Dear summer,

Um, about that?

We lost.

But to be honest with you, I still feel like a winner. This momma is finally comfortable.

Love,

17 weeks.

2011-07-05T07:25:00.000-07:00

Hello my sweet one,

Last weekend was a busy one! Friday night we celebrated your friends Kyla and Jackson's first birthday. I know that one day we will be celebrating your first birthday, and that is just surreal! Saturday we went to San Clemente to spend time with the Brook's, who are our dear, dear friends and partners in ministry, even though we serve at different churches. We went stand up paddling in the Dana Point marina for the very first time. I was a little afraid, given that my balance is a little off these days, but I did it and Daddy was so proud that I didn't fall in! We'll take you one day and you'll absolutely love it. We also celebrated your Uncle JJ's birthday and I spent a lot of time immersed in the water. Did you know that being pregnant with you makes me more prone to sunburns? Who knew!

Perhaps the very best part of last weekend was when I felt you move for the first time! It was 5:45 on Saturday morning and I was lying there while Daddy slept, and I felt you. It wasn't the "butterflies" that I kept waiting for- it was more like popcorn popping or like a little fish doing a back flip. I woke up your dad and we laid there amazed at the sweet reminder that you are in there, growing away!

This week we're going to buy you your first Bible and start reading to you from it every night. Your little ears are getting more and more capable of hearing everything from my heart beat, to my shower singing (sorry about that), to our prayers, to the guitar strumming away. We want you to hear it all!

I love you,

Momma

4th.

2011-07-04T10:04:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th!

I hope you're enjoying your 3-day weekend. We spent the morning down the street at the Ontario parade! I love where we live.

Somewhat embarrassing fact: Until fairly recently, I always thought the song God Bless the U.S.A. went: "And I won't forget the Man who died, who gave that right to me" - assuming it was talking about Jesus. Ha.

So today, I am thankful for both the Man who died and the men who died to give us the freedom we know and love today.

xo.

what no one told me.

2011-06-30T07:38:00.000-07:00

Sometimes, the most challenging part of the day is getting dressed. My jeans are getting snugger by the minute, my skirts hit my tummy in an awkward place, and my favorite dresses are too snug to even think about zipping. Together this leaves me with yoga pants and pajamas, which I find myself in often.

No one told me about this...sausage phase.* You know, the in between...where I don't yet have the firm, noticeably pregnant belly. Instead, I just look like...a sausage. Round all over and without any definition.

I have worked on building self-confidence my entire life. My pre-puberty chubby stage has haunted me for years, thanks to mean-spirited, yet naive, elementary aged children. Maybe some women never struggle with all the physical changes that come along with being pregnant. By the stuff that people say out there, many of them seem to just enjoy the glow and the extra plumpness in certain unmentionable areas. However, I think this stage of pregnancy would be challenging for any woman who has devoted such time and energy to making progress in the I-am-beautiful department.

The other day I had a 30-minute break down. I was sitting on the couch with Danny and I had just changed from jeans-that-better-still-fit-or-else into hello-wonderful-stretchy-breathable-pajamas. As I was sitting there, I lifted my shirt to look at what progress the babe had made throughout the day...and I saw them. Three little lines. & I completely lost it. For 30 minutes. Over stretch marks.

Danny let me cry it out. And by cry it out, I mean CRY. IT. OUT. And while I cried and managed to get out the words "...but I don't want stretch marks" in between sobs, he stroked my hair and let my sweaty forehead rest against his chest. Finally, when I was all dried up, he said, "Honey, let me see."

I lifted my shirt, and they were gone. The "stretch marks"...aka the fabric lines from squeezing into my jeans.

Ah, humility. 'Tis a good thing, no?

Well, I have since been of a more sober mind. Yes, my body looks like a sausage. Yes, it is highly likely that stretch marks will really come and be here to stay in the coming months. Yes, the pounds on the scale are slowly crawling to heights I have never before imagined. And yes, I sometimes feel like my 24-year long process with self-esteem may have back tracked a bit.

But...

Yes, my body is actually growing a baby. Yes, my body is preparing for everything from delivery to breastfeeding. Yes, my fatigue is all due to the fact that our baby now has fingerprints! Yes, my stomach really will stretch to fit a full-term babe. And yes, my belly button has never been cleaner.

Yes...it is all quite a miracle.

I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made... Psalm 139:14

Don't say I never told you.

*the terminology is more than perfectly descriptive. it resulted from a conversation I had with my dear friend Eri earlier this week about this very subject.

16 weeks.

2011-06-27T19:01:00.001-07:00

Hello my little one,

You are growing so much! I notice a difference every single day. Supposedly there is a big growth spurt ahead of us, so both you and I should be doing a lot of growing in the coming weeks! I should also start feeling you moving around in there any day now. Several times throughout the day I'll lay super still, hoping for a little movement. Nothing yet, so feel free to wiggle around in there, baby- momma wants to feel you!

It is hot out here. I am so glad you're enjoying the inside life for now. Don't worry- when you join us it will be nice and cool out here, though I promise to still keep you warm. Other than having to endure the heat, I am feeling wonderful. Daddy and I have been spending the evenings on walks or reading on our front porch. I also do pilates everyday and it has been such a refreshing experience for me. This is supposed to help with your delivery in 6 months, which keeps me more than motivated.

There are only 23 days left until we find out if you're a little boy or girl. We can't wait to call you by name! What's really amazing is the fact that our Lord already knows your name, as well as all the days of your life. He truly is a wonderful Creator- I know that full well.

I love you so,

Momma

we were doing things.

2011-06-27T08:25:00.000-07:00

Oh friends, we'll have to wait until tomorrow for the 16 week post. This weekend we were so busy that the sun was down before we had time to take a picture. We were doing things like this:

-having a BBQ

-charades around a fire

-s'mores

-sleeping in

-lounging in bed (my fav!)

-walking the pup

-a little trip to Treasures & Junk

-walking around our first estate sale

-celebrating one of our dearest students' graduations

-watching The Tourist

-church

-grocery shopping

-grass watering

-driving our students up to summer camp

-sharing about Israel at our church's night service

-a drive through Taco Bell for one of us (Mexican pizza!!!!!)

-an evening walk

-falling asleep on the couch

So, now I have a day off to recover from the weekend. Ah, so there is life after grad school!

See you tomorrow. xo.

we win.

2011-06-22T07:07:00.000-07:00

Monday afternoon was a doozy, as was yesterday. It is officially summer here in Southern California. While I welcome it as one season closer to winter (& my babe), I wouldn't mind if it suddenly decided to pick up and leave.

The heat has reminded me what it's like to live in a home without air. My afternoon naps are just as enjoyable, until I wake up with sweaty strands of hair on my neck and a discomfort that lasts until the sun sets. And then there's the oven.

Ah, and the oven. If you remember, the majority of our warm months last year were manageable because our oven had failed us. Now that we have an oven, I use it. All the time. But when Monday afternoon rolled around and I knew chicken pot pie was on the dinner menu, I dreaded it, knowing what it would to do our already hot house. So I decided to make the best of it. I made my pot pie for 45 minutes. Then two batches of granola for an hour. Then oatmeal raisin cookies because, obviously, the baby wanted rolled oats in another form, too.

By 7 pm we were heated out of our home. The open windows and bursts of breeze here and there simply weren't enough. So we sat on the porch in our new yellow adirondack chairs and read. Him, Harry Potter #4. Me, Ina May's Guide to Childbirth. And it was there that our little family let the cool winds of summer sweep us up to a better place.

Dear summer,

We win.

Love,

The Mr, the Mrs, the furball, and the bun (& pot pie & granola & cookies) in the oven

if only they were here.

2011-06-21T07:33:00.000-07:00

Being in this new season of life has really made us mourn family members who have passed in a new, fresh way. Danny and I talk about them often- my dad, his mom, my grandparents, his grandpa...If only they were here and a sigh is typically how the conversation ends. Then we stare blankly at the wall or the front door, until we're comfortable moving on to the next thing.

This is a picture of me and my grandma. She was the sweetest, most wonderful woman. I remember walking into her home and always seeing her at this cutting board, usually chopping cilantro. She would always greet me with that big smile and a Hello mija! You look so beautiful today! If only she was here to learn she was going to be a great grandma again! I can almost here the echo of her voice saying, Oh mija, I am so happy for you!

So for now we cling to the memories. Of my dad laughing so hard milk came out his nose at the dinner table. Of his mom bringing home 6 pairs of jeans for Danny to try on, and then returning the other five. Of cilantro and birthday cakes on Christmas and big brown couches and Ritz crackers and the incomparable smell of family during the holidays.

And we keep the memories alive. Me through my dad's eyes- him through his mom's smile. And we also cling to the fact that now we will be the "grown ups". You know, the ones who wrap the presents and wash the dishes and make the holiday smells come to life. And I'll be the mom, and he'll be the dad. What a sweet reality.

Ah yes, life isn't always easy. But it sure is always beautiful.

15 weeks.

2011-06-20T06:22:00.000-07:00

Dear baby,

We are changing things up this week. So far, your wonderful mom has been writing to you on her blog, but I get to do a guest appearance this week.

The first thing I want to say is “HAPPY 15 WEEK BIRTHDAY!!!” Some may think it is silly to celebrate 15 weeks, but with all the growing you are doing, you deserve some celebrating (maybe mom will eat some cake for you :).

I want you to know that your mom and I talk and think about you all the time. I am so happy that I get to be your dad. Just so you know, I have your pictures up all over my desk at work and I tell everyone at work how much I love you. Sometimes when I really think about you, I could cry because you mean that much to me already – that is how intense this father thing is. My beautiful boy or girl, you are loved by your daddy.

When I am at work I like to think about the things we are going to do together. Here are a few things you can look forward to: taking Den Den on walks, making mom pancakes in the morning, going on family road trips, holding hands, reading books (I’ll do the reading for the first few years), camping, teaching you to ride a bike, teaching you every musical instrument I can play, talking about how amazing mom is, and most of all, teaching you how to live a life that pleases God. The last one is the hardest, but I am going to try my very best…. I promise.

Keep the good work baby Unt! You mom and I couldn’t be more proud of you. You are the size of an avocado this week… and I sure do like me some guacamole!

Love,

Dad

P.S. I had my first Father’s Day yesterday because you! Not only do I get to be a father to you, but I get an extra holiday – you really are a blessing to my life :)

dream.

2011-06-16T11:42:00.000-07:00

Have you heard of Priscilla Ahn? This is my new jam. I first heard it at my niece's dance recital a couple weeks ago and have been in love with it since. I am too embarrassed to tell you how many times a day I've been listening to it. Let's just say, Danny caught me in the act the other day so I'm trying to limit myself. But work hours are free to replay & replay to my heart's desire!