Over the Hump

And on to the BUMP--baby bump that is!!  That's right--this is an official announcement that I'm just over 14 weeks pregnant and we couldn't be more thrilled!  The evidence is starting to speak for itself, so I figured I'd save friends and loved ones from any awkward moments the next time you see me. 

I'm one of those fortunate women who doesn't suffer much with physical ailments throughout my pregnancies.  I rarely deal with bouts of morning sickness or find myself hugging porcelain.  My biggest physical setback is extreme exhaustion and some pretty strong food aversions (which, unfortunately includes veggies), but those usually subside after the first trimester--so, I think I am even starting to see some light at the end of that tunnel.  So, I'll continue to count my blessings that this has been the case so far.  But, before you women who do happen to suffer physically through your pregnancies start to roll your eyes in disgust, just know that my pregnancies aren't without some sacrifice.  It just happens that my sacrifice comes mostly in the form of mental and emotional.  At least the last one did.  But, I've had a lot of internal growth since then, and I'm counting on a happier and healthier pregnancy/recovery this time around.  For starters, I didn't throw in the towel with exercise at 10 weeks (like last time) even when the exhaustion was seemingly unbearable.  I still got myself up at 4:40 a.m. and met my group of dedicated runners a few times a week. (Bless them!!!)  Even though I feel heavy and sluggish during the process, I'm convinced it's keeping my mood and mindset light and upbeat throughout the day.  I plan to keep exercising for the rest of this pregnancy--with moderations made towards the latter part, of course.  And while exercise will help, I think my biggest asset will be keeping an attitude of gratitude.  Gratitude for who I am, for what God has given me, and for a healthy body and baby for Pete's sake!  So, when the pounds start creeping on and things start expanding at lightening speed, I'm not going to fight them or hate the process.  Instead, I'm gonna embrace it, and love myself through the whole process, remembering who I am and what I came here to do, and thanking a loving Heavenly Father for giving me this opportunity in the first place!  I am blessed....

And just maybe this little clip will help on those days where it gets a little rough...



(McRae and I both happened to love this clip when we saw it on Sesame Street yesterday morning!)