24 Weeks

24 weeks – viability! I know it's been a little while since I've posted an official pregnancy update, I guess that would be due to the fact that life has been pretty hectic. We're over half way through with this pregnancy — I guess it's true — time flies when you're having fun (ahhh, morning sickness)! With my job status change, I am also switching OBs and where I'll be delivering our son. Tomorrow is my first visit with my new physician, praying all goes smoothly! Unfortunately with the change, Husband will no longer be able to join me at my appointments, which we both loved going to together.

Baby Size: A cantaloupe! He is approximately 10.5 to 11.8 inches long and weighs about 12.7 to 20.8 oz.

Weight Gain: Going through my medical records that I'll be bringing to my appointment tomorrow, from my eight week appointment to my appointment four weeks ago, I have only gained a total of five pounds! I guess that's what happens when "morning" sickness takes over. I feel like I've really started to pop and think I've probably put on a few pounds since the last visit – we'll see tomorrow!

Overall Feeling: The "morning" sickness has gotten MUCH better! I'm not only getting sick every few days at the most — PRAISE! I've been struggling a bit with backaches — but thankfully my dearest Hubby bought me a prenatal massage certificate. Now I just need to decide when I'm going to do a little spa day!

Excited For: Feeling Valor's kicks – I cannot wait for them to be strong enough for Husband to feel! It seems every time I tell Husband, "Quick! Feel right here..." our little stinker stops moving.

Everything grows rounder and wider and weirder, and I sit here in the middle of it all and wonder who in the world you will turn out to be. — Carrie Fisher

Naming Our Son

source

So, you may find the name for our Babe to be an interesting choice — one I about guarantee you've never heard. Maybe because technically it isn't a name you would ever find in a baby name book. Husband and I chose our son's name based on meaning. Together Husband and I have discussed, so many times, how we want our son's name to be something to live up to. Our son's name is Valor.

Valor Emerson

val•or [val-er]

noun

boldness or determination in facing great danger, especially in battle; heroic courage; bravery: a metal for valor.

Synonyms

intrepidity, spirit, courage

Our call to war, to love the captive soul,

But to rage against the captor;

And with the sword that makes the wounded whole

And will fight with faith and valor.

When faced with trials on every side,

We know the outcome is secure,

And Christ will have the prize for which He died—

An inheritance of nations.

Lyrics from O Church Arise

By Keith Getty and Stuart Townend

Dear Valor,
I love saying your name and praying that you are full of boldness, bravery and courage! Life definitely throws curve balls, but our hope for you, is that you're a boy that is true to his name. But most of all, we want you to know Christ as your Heavenly Father and believe that He is the source of your strength. Your Daddy and I cannot wait to meet you and get to know your unique personality. We're counting down the days Little One.
Love,
Mommy

Indiana Baby Shower & Gender Reveal

Last weekend, our dear friends Alison and Jagen hosted a fantastic baby shower and gender reveal for us. We are so blessed!

Husband, Baby and Me

Jagen and Husband

Alison (hostess with the mostess), Baby and Me

Our shower was such a beautiful day with dear friends and family. I'll let the photos do the talking:

Alison had everything planned down to the last detail, with vegan appetizers, cake, a devotional lead by my mom, and I think possibly everyone's favorite was the bib and onesie decorating! Our babe will be well dressed within the first few months, and it will be fun to remember who lovingly made each piece as it is worn.

Husband and I diligently kept a big secret until our shower. On Monday, May 11th we had our mid-pregnancy ultrasound and found out our Little One's gender. We had to hold the news in for three whole weeks, until last weekend. Can you believe we didn't even slip once? I'll be honest, there were times it was on the tip of my tongue, but held it in! Many friends and family members tried to pry the information out, but we prevailed!

Oh Baby BOY, look how many people love you, even before your arrival!