Luke's 1st Birthday [Part 1]

The week of Luke's birthday was a crazy one!  We closed on our house (after a few weeks of waiting for the government shutdown to end), packed up our stuff, moved into our new house, and had my family and Matt's family in town to celebrate.  Needless to say, posting a blog about the festivities was not high on my list of priorities.  So, here I am, 3 months later...posting some pictures from his big day!  This post contains pics from his actual birthday (October 30) and the photo project we worked on throughout his 1st year!

 I know I post enough pictures and statuses about my little guy- but, I can't say enough how much fun and wonder he adds to our lives.  He's curious and smart and energetic and animated and hilarious and an absolute delight in every way.  The first year flew by (in retrospect).

1st Birthday Breakfast

Monthly Pictures

1 Month

2 Months

3 Months

4 Months

5 Months

6 Months

7 Months

8 Months

9 Months

10 Months

11 Months

1 Year

Celebrating with a festive photo shoot!

Next I'll post pictures of his birthday party!

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes

It has been a full month since I last posted!  A lot happens in a month so this post will be a quick recap:

First: The Move!  We are officially living in North Carolina.  We've adjusted pretty quickly with the help of so many amazing people.  We love the area, the people and our church!  Our new apartment feels like home...the awesome pool, hot tub, and free starbucks helps with that. :)  We unpacked at lightening speed!  I was so ready to be settled.  I'll be sure to post pictures of the new place as soon as I remember to take them.

Second:  Ministry!  Being in ministry together was a huge reason for Matt and I wanting to be married. This new season is so exciting for us...after a season of "meantime" we are living our dream!  I will say I have never been more aware of how valuable our "meantime" waiting season was.  We learned so much from our time in Columbia and as hard and frustrating as it was at times, I absolutely do not regret a second.
We are now the youth pastors at Church Alive in Fuquay Varina, NC!  Being a part of Momentum Youth has been a great experience so far!  I have loved loved loved being able to get to know the girls! It is so cool how God just sets you up with friends and co-laborers that have passions and vision that complement the passion and vision He's put in you!  We're having our first girls' event in a few weeks and I am really excited!

Most of all, it has been the BEST seeing Matt operate in his element!  I love hearing him preach.  I love seeing him interact with students.  I love his creativity and work ethic... I'm so blessed by him.

This is our first sermon series! Man In The Mirror

Our very first 5th Quarter Bonfire!  Huge success!

One of Matt's points that was a real crowd-pleaser. "Pharaoh is an idiot."

It has been a really fun few weeks.  We're bursting with ideas and the students are so hungry for relationship, accountability and the Word... I'm just a little bit excited. :)

Third: Our very 1st Anniversary!  We have really come full circle in a year!
We celebrated our anniversary by having our first official night with Momentum Youth on September 5.  It was a cool moment for me, reflecting on the ups and downs of our first year of marriage and seeing my amazing husband preach his guts out...doing exactly what he was created to do.  Like I said...full circle.  God is so faithful.  Seriously, go read my first couple of blogs.  He is so so so so faithful!

Eating our cake topper to insure many blissful years of McAndrew-dom. 

 We got to celebrate our anniversary the next day.  And it was awesome. :)  Matt took me to the Renaissance Hotel in Raleigh and we had an amazing dinner and some quality hot tub time!  Just what we needed after a crazy few weeks of moving, unpacking, and getting adjusted a fast-paced schedule.  Also, there's an underground Super Target right beside this hotel.  Ummm.. I was home.

My incredible, anointed, hot husband.

Finally: Baby!  We've still got about 7 weeks to go and I am so ready!  We are not ready, though. haha!  No crib.  No stroller.  No diapers.  No bottles.  Nothing.  It is next on our to-do list!  As we get closer to the big day time moves more and more slowly.  I can't say it enough: I want my body back.  I want to take full, deep breath.  I want to lay on my back.  Most of all, I want meet our baby!

I'm going to leave you with a few of our wedding pictures in honor of our 1st year.  Also, I just really love our pictures. Thanks Carrie Ann!

Our first communion together. 

The changes aren't stopping here!  We've got crazy adjustments coming up pretty soon and I truly believe Matt and I are ready.  This year has been crazy but if you're not changing you're not growing!  We have definitely grown.

Until next time!

26 Weeks (and Pregnancy Must-Haves)

Pregnancy Must-Haves (for me)

Anyone who has spent for than 5 minutes around me knows how I have dealt with this pregnancy.  

Pregnancy is hard.  And I'm a wimp.

While the experience is fresh in my memory (as I'm still living through it) I thought I would share some of the stuff that has kept me sane...mostly.  This list is not intended to help others as most of the stuff is randomly important to me, but maybe something will aid you in your time of need!

(in no particular order)

 1. Pinterest- As we are in the process of relocating, this Mama is unable to nest.  Pinterest has allowed me to feel creative and accomplished without actually doing anything!  It also helps to get me excited about a new baby (knitted baby hats, anyone?).

2. A Very Sexy Man- My husband has been the most patient, helpful, encouraging, hard-working man during this relatively difficult season of transition.  Not only has he adjusted to the thought of being a new daddy, he's gotten a new job, packed us up and moved us twice, talked me through 2 blood drawings, and remained positive and loving throughout it all.

3. Cocoa Butter Creme- There are more expensive cremes that claim to keep stretchmarks away, but I believe stretchmarks have more to do with skin-type than creme-brand.  The most important thing is to keep your skin uber moisturized to retain elasticity.  I've used this stuff from the beginning and at almost 7 months, still no stretchmarks.  And...it's around $4.

4. SeaBand Anti-Nausea Ginger Gum ($5)- The first 5 months of my pregnancy were brutal.  To be honest, nothing helped my nausea (even prescription Phenergan).  But, this gum was a relief more than other cheap remedies I tried.  

5. Mott's for Tots Applejuice ($2.50)- During my most nauseous months, most drinks did not appeal to me.  This applejuice is very low in sugar and very easy on an upset stomach.  I loaded it with ice...mmm.

6. Liberty University- A month and a half ago I started taking classes again.  I can't tell you how much it did to boost my energy and self-esteem.  Having something to focus on and work toward while pregnant has been REALLY important for me.  I intend to continue with classes after McBaby is born and I'm sure I'll feel even more accomplished then!

7. Candy Corn (2/$1)- My favorite candy.  And it's corn.. so... healthy, right?

8. Moroccan Oil ($18)- This stuff has kept my hair feeling so healthy (I've heard pregnancy can do really good OR really bad things to your hair) and smelling SO good.  Not too many scents were appealing to me for awhile, but this stuff is heaven.

9. Bella Band ($12 @ Target)- Since I refuse to buy maternity pants of any kind, the bella band has allowed me to wear most of my regular jeans and pants so far.  I've heard it's also important to support your baby bump as it grows!

10. Blogger- As you would know from my first blog, I started this to help myself.  I needed to process and record my thoughts as my pregnancy progressed.  It has turned into an addiction!  I know I'll appreciate having this blog to look back on as life moves so quickly!

11. Old Navy Jersey Sundresses ($15)- South Carolina is HOT.  And 112 degree weather does not mix well with pregnant girls and alot of clothing.  Enter this dress.  I have 3.  They're comfy, cute, versatile, and perfect for growing bellies!  Non-maternity too!

There you have it!  Some of my very favorite things for this season!  And now... 

26 Week Update:

How far along? 26 Weeks

Total weight gain:This question is stupid.

Maternity clothes?Still prefer regular clothing in big sizes..

Stretch marks? Not yet!

Sleep: I'm waking up earlier and earlier!  Feeling very productive..let's hope this keeps happening.
Best moment this week: I had the best quality time with my mom and sister this week.  We made a day thrifting and searching for deals on stuff to use for pinterest projects!  Heaven.  We had a lake day with some great friends yesterday...And today we bought new couches!  Can't wait to get them out of storage and into our new living room!  2 Weeks!
Miss Anything? so much.  The tanning bed, sleeping on my back, painting my toenails..
Movement:He is rolling around a ton!  Late at night it gets pretty uncomfortable as he shifts around.

Food cravings:no real "cravings".. loving some candy corn these days.

Anything making you queasy or sick: no!  knock on wood.

Gender: Boy
Labor Signs: None yet.. I keep waiting for Braxton Hicks.  I'm morbidly curious but terrified at the same time!
Symptoms:Still dealing with the tender spot above my belly button.  And I can't walk up stairs or get out of the car without sounding like an 80 yr old smoker.

Belly Button in or out? in
Wedding rings on or off?Off.  Still debating the ring tat.

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy!  It has been a really great week...and we're getting closer and closer to our big move!

Looking forward to: Getting settled into our new home.  I go to sleep and wake up thinking about furniture placement, paint colors, meal plans, and creating a cleaning schedule. Who am I?

McBaby Gear I'm Likin'

As I'm approaching the 3rd trimester, the reality of having a little boy is slapping me in the face!  Time to buckle down and try to prepare!  I've spent some time researching baby gear and let me say... there is so much crap out there.  I don't even know where to begin.  So, normally I get overwhelmed and just go browse the cute knitted baby hats on Etsy.com. ha!  I have made some progress on what kind of stuff I do and don't want.

I've had to get started on a baby registry as some of the greatest friends and family in the world have offered to throw baby showers!  Mostly, Matt and I want diapers, diapers, and more diapers... But, here are some other items that I really like!  I hate pastels and other "baby-ish" patterns.  No giraffes or sheep or really patterns of any kind, much to Matt's dismay. (He likes color!) I go for clean lines, black, minimal.  Anyone who knows me will not be surprised...

1.  Graco Aprica Haven OpenAir Play Yard ($129):  I love this because it is the least ugly pack-n-play I've seen!  It's also light, practical and easy to set up.

2. Britax B-Agile Stroller ($209):  Love this because it's also light, practical, easy on (my) eyes and is safe for infants and toddlers.

3. Joovy Nook High Chair ($139):  High chairs are ugly.  All of them.  Except for this one!  It's also easy to clean, the tray swings open, and easily travels.

4. Jerry Garcia Onesie by TheWishingElephant on Etsy.com ($22):  I cannot tell you how much I love this.  I grew up listening to the Grateful Dead with my dad and immediately sent him a screenshot of this.  He's even offered to buy this for his first grandson!

5.Vest and Tie Onesie by MadiBethCreations on Etsy.com ($23):  So what if I have a hipster baby?

6. Baby Geekery/Nerd Onesie by TheWishingElephant on Etsy.com ($18):  O.M.G.  I know my kid will be the smartest kid alive and this outfit will be proof.  Also, I'm obsessed with quirky and unique onesies.  Sorry, baby.

7. Green Monster Newborn Hat by FashionTouch on Etsy.com ($30):  Newborn picture must have.  Matt is excited to refer to our child as his "little monster" for some reason..so, when I saw this I fell in love.

Don't worry, I know alot of baby gear can be bought at Once Upon A Child or off of Craigslist for a fraction of these prices.  I just wanted some direction as to exactly the kind of stroller/highchair/play yard I wanted... Rest assured, I will be scouring discount stores and websites for gently used versions of my favorite stuff!  (The Etsy onesies will be splurges.  I can't get around it.)

I'll be posting some of the stuff that has helped me survive pregnancy next!

23 Weeks

I thought I would start documenting my pregnancy.  I have really been a slacker at taking pictures or journaling about my experience, and I know I'm going to regret it!  No time like the present to begin!

A few weeks ago we had some early maternity pics taken by my wonderful sister.. here's a sneak peak!

20 wk ultrasound pic

Let me say, I have always been a little weirded about ultrasound pictures posted on social media for everyone to see.  But, I am not your typical mommy-to-be.  I feel like I've resisted being pregnant from the beginning, and it is futile. (ha!)  After taking some cute pictures and buying new clothes that FIT, I feel better about myself and more comfortable being open about my personal experience with pregnancy.  So here's a look at baby....in utero!

To be clear, I am extremely excited about our little one!  Matt and I, although we feel extremely unprepared, are stoked to be parents!  It is being pregnant that has caused me to shut down a little.  I wasn't expecting the sudden physical changes or the overwhelming attention!  But, now we're halfway there..and I want to embrace all that mommy-to-be-ness has to offer.  (Still, strangers touching my tummy is not acceptable.  It never will be. There are some things I just can't embrace. :) )

Here's the most exciting news...

McBaby is a Boy!

Is anyone surprised?  I didn't think so... 

We are beyond thrilled!

Here are some highlights:

How far along? 23 weeks

Total weight gain: ALOT. I'm afraid to know a number.
Maternity clothes? I HATE maternity clothes.  But, I LOVE the Bella Band.  Because of it I'm still in my "fat" jeans. Also, I love sun dresses (in bigger sizes) and other normal shirts bought in larger-than-usual sizes.
Stretch marks? No, praise God.
Sleep: other than 5-6 bathroom trips a night, great!
Best moment this week: Matt finally got to feel some of the baby somersaults! The huge smile he got when he felt baby kick is now one of my favorite memories.
Miss Anything? My clothes! I DREAM about wearing my normal jeans and going shopping for a dress withOUT an empire waist.
Movement: He moves a ton! Especially first thing in the morning and when I first lay down at night.
Food cravings: Nothing out of the ordinary.. I love milk, but that is not unusual.

Anything making you queasy or sick: Grilled chicken is never going to appeal to me again. Gag.

Gender: Boy
Labor Signs: No and let's keep it that way.
Symptoms: weight gain and some nausea

Belly Button in or out? in
Wedding rings on or off? On! But, I have experienced some swelling in my fingers (Carolina heat may have something to do with that.)

Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy!
Looking forward to: Camping with my family this week and a beach vacation next week!  Matt deserves a vacation and it will be our last one before baby is here!

New News

So much for consistent, weekly blog posts!

I shouldn't be surprised at how life continues to surprise me. I guess the day I'm not surprised anymore is the day I should start making changes!

Some quick updates since I last posted:

Several weeks ago, we had my Great Grandmother's funeral.  She was my namesake and I have some precious memories growing up around her.  I'm blessed to have grown up with such a godly, loving family.  Her children, grandchildren, great grandchildren and even unborn great great grandbaby were there to fellowship and celebrate the legacy she left.
I believe in the power of generational transfer, and I am honored to aspire to her legacy of kindness, gentleness, self-control, discipline and love.

Also, Matt's parents came into town last week and we have had a blast!  God really hooked me up with incredible in-laws.  
Friday we went to Folly Beach and had the perfect day soaking up the sun.  Papa T (T-Money) had one goal while in Charleston: to have shrimp and grits at the Hominy Grill. 

We are going to fiercely miss them when they head back to Michigan...

Some pics:

 

Hominy Grill: Success

Folly Pier

A truly great day with my favorite guy...

More news:

I've finally enrolled in college again!  I am so relieved to start this journey again.  I hesitated to start because the thought of having a baby and embracing many other changes while trying to balance school seemed too much!  But, I know I'm capable and it is now or never.  Needless to say, I am pumped!

Finally, some REALLY big news!  Matt and I have known that our season in Columbia would be ending... we just didn't know the details!  It has been an up-and-down journey as we have prayed through some frustration and impatience and waited for God to present us with an opportunity. Closed doors, confusion, blah blah blah...


We will give details later, but Matt has accepted a position as a youth pastor in NC and we will be moving the end of August!  God has downloaded so much vision into the both of us the past few months, we knew He would present an outlet for all that vision soon.  And here it is!

SO!  College.  Moving.  Baby!  Alot is happening and I am excited (and determined) to keep everyone updated through this blog.  

God really is faithful in His goodness.