And so Starts Our Journey Back

Today marks the beginning of our trip back to the states.  As I type this the sun still isn't up and we're getting ready to head to the airport to make our flight to Nairobi.  There we'll spend a few days settling things before flying back to the states.

Leaving Kisumu feels strange and we can only hope that we'll be back here some day, if only to visit.  Despite spending yesterday running around and saying good bye to friends, I feel like there is so many unfinished "to dos".  If you could, please keep us in your thoughts and prayers as we start this trip.

For us as we travel the long distance between Kenya and the States.

For Buddy that he makes it safely to Nairobi and isn't affected by the long travel.

For our car situation, that it gets settled without any more bumps in the road.

For everyone and everything we're leaving behind.

We'll miss you Kenya!

The Packing

The movers have finally left and with them went all of our things.  Now of course we knew this was going to happen, we were kind of even a little excited about it.  I just didn't factor what the house would look like and how I would feel after it was all gone.  Our beautiful home here in Kisumu is empty and its a little sad.

Our bedroom

They started Friday morning and moved like a well oiled machine through the house.  I definitely underestimated how involved we would be while they were here.  I was constantly confirming what was to be packed and what wasn't to be touched.  I stood my ground when they refused to ship Buddy's food.  That stuff is expensive and we ARE taking it back with us!  By the end of the first day they had every room packed besides our bedroom and man was it hard keeping them out of there.  We were exhausted and tired when it was all said and done.  And boy did my feet hurt!

The packed kitchen

The moving truck ready to be backed

Day two had them invading our bedroom whether we were ready or not! Thankfully it was a much shorter and less involved day as they were quickly done with the packing.  The rest of the day they spent packing up the larger crates and weighing each individual box.  I was even able to sneak away for a nap in the midst of it all.  :-)

Our first home

Looking back on the last two days, I am so thankful that the military provides people to do this for you. I don't know what we would have done if they didn't.  I am also thankful that its over and we still have a few more days to enjoy Kisumu with our friends.  I know I am definitely not thinking about leaving and I am sure it will all hit us when that day arrives (2 days eek!).  Good byes will start and the hours will fall away, but for now Kisumu is still home despite the empty house and bare walls...

I'm going to miss this place

17 Weeks

This week has been super busy with getting ready to leave Kenya.  I've been running around the house trying to pack our airplane luggage and label things for the movers.  Luckily the second trimester has brought huge spurts of energy!  So thankful that we are moving during this time rather than earlier/later.  Sleep has gotten better.  I still don't have it completely figured out but I've ditched the body pillow for a regular one.  I usually put it under my belly to fall asleep and then toss it to the side during the night.  I've found that sleeping on my left side is overall the best position  for me and when I do I tend to get the most sleep.  

I haven't gotten a ton of movement from Baby Bast this week just some flutters here and there.  My belly is still growing but I haven't gained any more weight.  At this point I think the baby is basically taking everything from me.  I've been making a point of it to eat about 6 small meals a day and that's helping.  My regular clothes are still working for the most part except my jeans.  With this crazy spring weather currently going on in the states I hope I don't need them when we get there!

I'm still craving all things spicy and I can't wait till we get back to the states to enjoy some real Mexican!  (Note: I've had tacos for lunch the last two days) I am still dreaming of some of our US favorites.  

Overall I'm feeling great this week pregnancy-wise.  I am super excited to show off this little bump to family and friends and start setting up our new home in North Carolina.  I can't wait to schedule our mid-pregnancy ultrasound and see this little one again.  We are also planning on learning if its a boy or a girl.  We've kind of put off thinking of names and getting any baby gear until we know what we're having.  

17 weeks and growing!

One Week

Are we really a week out from leaving this place?  This place that we've called home for the past three years. The time seems to only be going by faster as we get closer to our leave date.

Each time I see someone I find myself wondering if its the last.  I've found that in this kind of work you don't say good-bye, just "Till next time."  Sure there may never be a next time but saying that aloud is too sad.  The friends we've made here are some of the greatest.  I've said it before, but it takes a special type of person to live/work in Africa and we have met some of the best people here.  They have made our time in Kenya what it was whether it was on one of our many trips or just hanging by the pool on a Sunday afternoon.  I don't know what we would have done without them.

Kenya has been good to us.  It holds so many firsts for us and for our family.  Its were we met, fell in love, got engaged, married and found out we were expecting.  Its our beginning and its really sad to see that chapter in our lives close.  

I have this bittersweet feeling as we use this week to visit with friends, enjoy "last" dinners and say our good-byes.  Yes its hard.  Its always hard.  But at the same time we're ready.  We're ready for a new adventure and to take that next step in our lives.  The idea of North Carolina is exciting.  A new start and a new stage of life.

I'm sure this week will go by fast.  Time has already shown us that.  I'm just praying that we're able to soak in every second of it.  Make those final memories with friends and toast our farewell over a few last Tuskers.

Asante sana, Kenya!  For everything...

Takawiri Fights Back

The last week Josh and I had been feeling the stress of our upcoming move.  Orders, the car, sorting through things, etc.  We really just needed to get away and enjoy one last weekend in Kenya.  Two years ago we spent new years eve on Takawiri Island.  Its a small island out in Lake Victoria.  One of our friends owns a deserted resort out there that sits on a beautiful white sand beach.

We decided to head out that way, do some camping and just relax.  It can take a bit to get out there so Friday night we headed out to Mbita and stayed at the ICIPE guest house.  The next morning we got a private boat to take us over to the island.  The public ferry doesn't leave Mbita till early afternoon and we wanted to enjoy the entire day on Takawiri.  

Fishing village on Takawiri

Upon landing on the white sand beach, we realized that the resort was quickly deteriorating.  In just two years the thatched roofs were falling apart and the island birds had seemingly taken over the trees.  A little sad to say the least but we weren't too concerned as we hadn't planned on using the facilities there.  

On our way

After pitching our tents, we got down to the business of relaxing.  Josh and Lacey (our friend who also went with us) swam while I enjoyed reading up on the beach.  We were also able to connect with Josh's friend Jack, the curator of the Mfangano Peace Museum, who he had done some photography work in the past for.  We napped, chatted and just soaked in our little slice of Africa.  

The beautiful white sand beach

It wasn't till after dinner that Takawiri started to become somewhat of an adventure.  The ants had come out in full force and got into everything that wasn't completely enclosed including our food, tents, chairs, etc.  They were on the beach and in the grass.  There wasn't really a place that you could stand (besides in the lake) without them crawling on your feet. 

Josh in front of Lake Victoria

Realizing that at least they weren't biting we decided to get a fire going on the beach and enjoy the lightening show on the lake.  The fire was perfect until we started to feel some drops from the sky.  Nope not rain folks....Those birds that had infested the island?  Yep we were getting used as target practice.  Somehow I managed to get up just before they hit every time.  Josh and Lacey weren't so lucky as they got hit on the shorts and face respectively.  

We moved out of range and enjoyed the last bit of our fire before hitting the sack.  Thinking that the rain was over for the night we opened our rain flaps wide and took advantage of the island breeze.  Unfortunately that breeze started to pick up in the middle of the night.  I rolled over and prodded Josh asking, "Hey babe do you think we should close the flaps?"

Literally seconds later the storm was upon us. It was all I could do to hold onto the tent as Josh struggled with the zippers.  The high profile of our tent made it an easy target for the flattening island winds.  Realizing that it was a loosing battle we collapsed the tent just praying that the rain cover would hold long enough to out live the storm. 

We squeezed into Lacey's two person tent and road out the rain.  As the storm let off Josh and I decided that we might actually get some sleep if we went inside one of the cabins.  We were soaked and a little cold but we managed to get in a few hours of rest.  In the morning, we went out and accessed the damage.  

Most of our things were drenched.  The most devastating of all was Josh's camera and kindle sitting in a pool of water.  The camera's LCD screen  had water sloshing behind it and the kindle charger port seems to be corroded.  Thankfully though both devices have seemingly come back to life (only time will tell). We were also grateful that our clothes for the next day were also dry.  I'm so glad I packed those in a water proof bag!

We spent most of the morning laying things out to dry and packing up to head back.  Again we fought the ants who for some reason just really wanted to come home with us.  When the boat arrived on the beach, I honestly felt a bit of relief.  Even though it was a relaxing and much needed trip, it had also been an adventure.  Ants, birds, and the storm just made our trip a little more interesting...

Of course there would be two cows on the ferry back.  I mean this is Kenya!

16 Weeks

4 months?! How did we get here so quickly? Overall I'm still feeling pretty good.  I have had a lot of trouble sleeping lately though.  The body pillow isn't cutting it anymore and I'm waking up with a lot of hip pain.  I'm not sure what else I can do to combat this but hopefully it doesn't get worse.

Still no movement from Baby Bast yet.  They say it will feel like flutters but I'm not exactly sure what flutters are supposed to feel like.  Sometimes I stop and think, "Was that it?  Or is that just gas bubbles?"  Guess I'll know it when I feel it.  My belly is still growing like a weed.  Its crazy to me how large its getting despite only being up 2 lbs.  Maternity clothes are still not necessary but are a bit more comfortable than my normal clothes.  Know that once we get back to the states I'll have to pick up a few more pieces including some jeans!

*A few hours after I wrote this, I was reading an email from Josh when I adjusted my computer to rest on my lower abdomen.  I got two distinct kicks from the inside.  :-)

I'm starting to have slight cravings.  I'm not sure if these are pregnancy related or just me wanting some of my U.S. favorites.  All I want is a sandwich from Subway or a burrito from Chipolte.   I'm also loving spicy food right now and have been making dinner a tad spicy as of late.  Luckily Josh doesn't mind too much!

I am still looking forward to starting to think about baby items once we get back to the states and see this little one again.  I also can't wait to see our families and give out lots of hugs.  I'm expecting lots of chat time with my sisters and cannot wait.  I also can't believe that by the time we get settled in in North Carolina we'll be almost five months!

Look at that belly!

Just Kidding....

To all those military spouses out there, don't you just love it when you think everything is sorted then they throw a wrench in your plans?  Those orders that were cut.  Those orders that we were so excited to finally have in our hands.  Wrong.

Dear Army, North Carolina not Washington remember.  Please change them.  Please change them quickly.  Two weeks from leaving Kisumu and still no orders.  Really hope this is not the standard for the military.

BUT I honestly don't mean to sound negative.  I'm merely laughing at yet another twist in the road.  There are positives in everything.  The embassy is letting us schedule our plane tickets and our household goods shipments despite the lack of correct orders.  I'm sure this is just another lesson in patience from above.  Yes Lord.  I'm listening.  I hear You.

We Have Orders

We have orders!!  I can't say how happy I was this morning when Josh checked his email and there it was, the document we've been waiting for.

Having orders means we can arrange the pick up of our household goods and schedule our airline flights.  Having orders means we are now officially on our way to North Carolina.  Having orders means all this planning for the next few years isn't for naught.

With two weeks left in Kenya, the reality of leaving is becoming more and more real with each passing day.  Receiving our orders today is just another step in that process.  The house is sorted.  Most of our items are sold (oh Lucy why doesn't anyone want you).  Now for the goodbyes.  :-(

Week 15

I can't say a whole lot has changed from last week.  I still can't believe that we are already at 15 weeks.  Where has the time gone?!  I'm still feeling really good.  Sleep is getting a bit difficult/uncomfortable but isn't anything to complain about quite yet.  Otherwise my energy level is sky high and I am just itching to accomplish all these little tasks around the house.  I'm probably driving Josh nuts with my requests for him to sort through things and do this or that.

I'm only up 1.5 lbs so maternity clothes aren't really necessary quite yet.  My jeans no longer fit comfortably but luckily I've always been more a skirt and dress girl (at least here in Kenya).  I did buy a few maternity tops and shorts but in no way am filling them out yet.  I tried wearing the shorts yesterday and had the hardest time keeping them up!

My appetite is definitely increasing as I feel like this little one is just sucking everything away from me.  I find myself looking for a small snack about every 4 hours or so.  Nuts have been my best friend and I love grabbing a handful.  I'm also loving me some mango.  Its going to be hard leaving here and not having a steady supply of it.  I think I may be a little lacking in the iron department as well, as red meat has sounded more and more appealing this week.  Case in point: I'm making Thai steak for lunch today!

Right now I am most looking forward to seeing this little one again and hopefully finding out if we're having a little boy or girl.  Not that it doesn't feel real right now but in a way it doesn't.  I'm ready to start thinking about names and looking for some baby things.  We're kind of putting that all off till we get back to the states and this week I'm feeling a bit anxious for that time to begin!  Once we start this process and maybe after Baby Bast starts kicking it will all start to set in.  :)

Looking forward to when that bump becomes a true belly !

A Morning Hike

Last weekend Josh and I went out to one of our favorite hiking spots around Kisumu to get a little exercise and enjoy the spot one last time before leaving.  We had convinced a few of our friends to come with us and were excited to show them the spot.  Unfortunately when we pulled up to the water treatment plant we were greeted by large bulldozers and excavators.  Construction had started in hopes of expanding the plant and in doing so had destroyed the start of the trail.

Determined not to let this ruin our morning we set off to find the trail head and were able to pick up a little of the path as it weaved alongside the waterfall.  With Josh in the lead, we made our way along the narrowing trail and climbing up the steep ravine.  I think at some point we took a wrong turn as the path basically disappeared into the bush.  Luckily we made our way back to the main trail minus a few cuts and scrapes along the way.

I have so many pictures of him on this rock

Now I've been working out a bit and we had just got back from playing Frisbee on the beach.  I thought what's a little hike...Wow was I ever wrong.  I was so out of breath.  Guess it was this whole breathing for two thing.  On top of being out of breath I was lucky enough to also swallow a fly.  Yes a fly.  Flew right into my wide open mouth while I was gasping for air.  Luck of the draw, eh?

After a little coughing and lots of water, I shook it off to a bit of extra protein and we made it to the top.  Thankfully the trip down was a little less adventurous.

Josh on the way down overlooking Kisumu

Overall it was a great morning.  Despite being a bit out of shape it was nice to get out and get some fresh air.  I was glad we were able to visit the falls one last time and enjoy some great views of Kisumu and the lake.

Week 14

We are officially in our second trimester!!!  The time has just flew by.  I'm feeling great!  No nausea. No insomia.  Now I am just waiting to start feeling this little one move around in there.

The tournament went great.  I wasn't tired or exausted from running around.  I actually surprised myself a bit by how well my body adjusted to the extra physical activity.  There were a few other pregnant women there as well but none as far along as I was.  I did get hit once or twice but nothing to worry about.

This week we also told the rest of the world on facebook and this blog.  I thought it might be funny to post it on April Fool's Day and see if anyone thought it was a joke.  Surprisingly our friends didn't even wonder.  Apparently they think Josh and I can't pull off a joke.  We recieved so many nice comments and encouraging words from friends.  It just makes me so excited to meet this little one.

My belly is still growing.  I think Josh finally notices what I have been for weeks now.  I'm not up many pounds but my weight is definitily shifting.  I'm trying to be more active and keep up with my elptical time.  I had a really good session today and hope to keep it up.  I know that as time goes on it will only get harder so I'm going with the "do what you can now" mentality.  I didn't eat the greatest on our vacation and am trying to get back in the swing of things on that front.

I'm going to try to keep up with this weekly update.  I think its going to be a bit difficult but I know I will treasure it in the end.

Feeling a bit big this week.  Think its a bit of bloat added in.

Week 13

This week I'm really excited as we are headed to the beach for a little relaxation and some ultimate Frisbee.  I am a little nervous about playing as I don't want to overdue it.  I'm pretty good at listening to my body but I am worried about getting accidentally knocked over or ran into.  Otherwise I've been feeling really good.  My nausea is next to gone and even my insomnia has cleared up.  I've found that my hips are starting to hurt at night and I started trying to sleep with a body pillow.  Its a bit difficult as it takes up some space in the bed at night.  I've already gotten my head stepped on by Buddy because he couldn't figure out how to get out of the bed due to the pillow.  I've also finally put on a few pounds and my belly is starting to really show (in my opinion).

We were also able to connect with Josh's brothers to tell them.  It was really great to finally tell all of our family and friends.  Next week we are thinking of putting it on facebook and letting the rest of the world know so to speak.  I know my mom really would like us to make it public as she is dying to share with her friends and colleagues.

I have also started the long process of researching baby items.  Its all a little foreign to me and a tad overwhelming.  I've found that if I just take one item at a time its not so bad.  Right now I'm most concerned about safety, of course, and making the best use of the item.  I'm trying to find things that will last more than one baby and if possible grow with the child.  I'm all about multipurpose and saving money especially as we're not sure if I'll be working when we're in North Carolina.

Otherwise we're doing great, all three of us!  :-) We haven't really started thinking about names or the nursery.  I think we'll wait till we get back to the U.S.  Its funny to me how this doesn't stress me out.  Usually I would like to be 10 steps ahead of the game but I'm enjoying just treasuring every minute of being pregnant.  I'm sure the next 6 months will go by fast.

I'd say this is the first real bump picture!

Weeks 10, 11, & 12

Week 10:  This week has been a bit trying as I am having trouble sleeping.  I usually pass out easily at night but then one of those vivid pregnancy dreams wakes me up.  After that its a crap shoot whether or not I'll get back to sleep again.  Poor Josh has to deal with me tossing and turning but he's been great about it thus far.  I haven't had any nausea this week and honestly don't really feel pregnant.  I am getting some headaches, but I think its just due to the exhaustion and lack of sleep.  I would doubt the whole thing if it weren't for the little bump that seems to be emerging.

I'm still feeling chubby but haven't had the energy (due to lack of sleep) to jump on the elliptical.  Josh has been really encouraging and says he doesn't even see a difference in my body yet.  This week I slipped and told two of my girlfriends (one here and one in the US).  It was great to finally be able to talk about the baby and I got some great advice from my girlfriend here.

We're still hopeful that we'll be able to get an ultrasound soon.  The elections have been quiet thus far but the final results aren't in yet.  I heard that it takes awhile to get established at the hospital so I'm hoping that when we go its not one of these whole day things.  I'd really like Josh to be there but I know he won't be able to spend an entire day with me at the hospital.  Once we get the ultrasound I think we'll start telling family.

We finally figured out how we want to tell everyone.  We're going to take a series of photos where Josh is wearing the "Dad" shirt I got him.  Slowly you will be able to read his shirt and the last few pics will be extremely obvious that we're expecting.  I'm excited to let everyone know but a little sad that we can't see their reactions.  I guess that's what we get for being overseas.

Maybe there's a bump there....Don't mind my oily face.

Week 11: This week has been the hardest and the most rewarding thus far.  I thought my nausea had completely gone away but it is back in full force.  Nothing really sounds good to me but I'm still trying to keep food in my stomach.  I've actually lost a few pounds so I need to keep at it.  I've also had the worse headaches I have ever had.  It feels like a lot of sinus pressure but I don't have any medication here that I can safely take.  I've been taking Tylenol here and there but its not doing the trick.  On top of the headaches I have had a really hard time sleeping at night.  I can't fall asleep and when I do I end up waking up every few hours.  Josh seems to think its my body's way of preparing me but I'd still like to catch up on some sleep for my own personal sanity.  I'm hoping and praying these symptoms start to wane as the weeks go on.  I'm ready for this second trimester and the relief its supposed to bring.

On a happy note we told the rest of the family this week.  We were able to connect with Josh's parents via skype and share with them photos that announced the pregnancy.  They were so excited and it was so rewarding for us.  My parents were a bit more difficult as they don't skype.  We did managed to wake up my mom and get her on the computer.  I can tell they are so excited as this is their first grandchild.  We also shared with Josh's brother and his family.  The kids are really excited for another cousin and promised to come up with lots of baby names for us. :)  We still have to catch Josh's sister's family and my grandparents. We've been waiting till their family is all together and frankly I've felt too horrible in the evenings to call my grandparents.

We still haven't gotten an ultrasound at the hospital.  We found out that our insurance won't pay for it unless its at the 12th week.  So next week it is!  We're praying that everything is ok and we can hear the heartbeat of this little baby.  I'm getting nervous of my medical treatment down the road.  By the time we're in North Carolina, I'll be halfway there and just starting with a new OB.  Again praying that we get someone who is flexible and we feel comfortable with.

Definitely feeling like the stomach is getting bigger

Week 12:  This week has brought some relief from the headaches and sleepless nights of last week.  Although I feel like I shouldn't speak too soon as they are bound to pop up again.  Right now my only complaint is not fitting into my jeans like I used to.  I still haven't gained any weight but the belly is causing them to fit a bit snug in the waist.  Leggings and dresses are quickly becoming my friend!

I'm starting to be hungry all the time and have tried to make sure I'm eating healthy snacks.  Its been hard but I feel so much better when I have an apple rather than potato chips.  I've also been preparing all our dinners and really like coming up with delicious meals for us.  Its always an experiment as I'm not the best in the kitchen but Josh has been a sport about it.

We finally went to the doctor this week.  The doctor is saying that my official due date is October 1, 2013.  I don't really hold much cloud in that date but it gives us an idea of when to expect this baby.  Basically he just talked to us about what blood tests we should consider and then scheduled us an ultrasound.  We headed down to the ultrasound area and in true Kenyan fashion were told to come back in 1.5 hours.  Well by then Josh had been off of work for an hour and we just didn't want to wait.  I think they sensed our frustration so they told us they could do the scan but we'd have to come back for the report.  I was so excited to see this little one on the screen.  Mainly I just wanted to make sure he or she was in there!  We didn't get to hear the heartbeat as the machine didn't have sound but we could see it flickering away.  Baby Bast was already kicking but a little shy as he/she had their hand over their face.

Seeing the baby was by far the highlight of the week for me. I can't believe he or she is in there.  I was so glad Josh was there with me.  It was great to share that moment with him.  The next time we see this little one hopefully we can see whether or not its a boy or a girl.

Won't be long before I can't hid it anymore!

Weeks 7, 8 & 9

Week 7:  I was a little nervous to head out on our honeymoon after last week's bouts of sickness but was at the same time determined to not let this pregnancy be an excuse to not explore Morocco to its fullest.  My worries were for not as I had a complete turn around.  My nausea has basically gone away as long as I can keep some food in me.  Its been a little difficult finding healthy small snacks to munch on throughout the day but its worth it in the long run.

I feel like my stomach ballooned overnight.  I can no longer suck in my "pouch" and just overall feel a bit chubby.  I really haven't gained any weight yet but I feel like my body is shifting and certain body parts are stretching and getting ready.  I can't have a belly already and feel like the bloating will reduce in the next couple of weeks.

I'm having the craziest dreams.  They're so vivid and some of them a bit disturbing.  I always wake up in a bit of a panic and have to reassure myself that it wasn't real.  I know this is just the overload of hormones but its making falling back to sleep a bit difficult.

Otherwise I feel great!  I think its really starting to sink in for Josh and I that we're going to be parents.  Since we are only in the early stages of this pregnancy I think we sometimes forget about the precious little miracle growing inside of me.  We're both pretty nervous but also excited to start this journey together.

Week 7 A little bloat; getting packed for Morocco!

Week 8:  Being pregnant in Morocco is pretty much the same as being pregnant in Kenya I've found.  Its actually a whole lot easier to eat healthy and not stick out for turning down alcohol.  (Morocco is 98% Muslim)  My body is however not appreciating the winding roads in the mountains.  I have never gotten car sick before but there were some points this week when I thought I was pretty close.  Luckily I packed some mints and sucking on them really seemed to help.

I am still getting some nausea when I haven't eaten in a while.  I'm finding that I need to put something in my stomach about every 4 hours or so.  I shouldn't complain because I know I am so lucky when it comes to this.  Josh and I have a running bet about whether or not I can make it through the pregnancy without "loosing my lunch".  I am determined to go the whole nine yards.  His bet is sometime before the first trimester is up.  :)

This week we bought the first thing for the baby.  We were shopping for Berber rugs and the salesman rolled out one that was meant to bring fertility and lots of children.  It had beautiful animals stitched into it and I just knew we had to get it for the nursery.  Josh agreed and we had a sweet moment over making that first purchase.

I'm getting really anxious to start telling people and some of our friends are starting to look at me funny.  We decided that we would wait to get through the 10th week and then see if we can get an ultrasound.  (The Kenyan elections are in a weeks time and we don't know what the situation will be like afterwards. a.k.a. if it will be safe enough to venture out)  If we can get an ultrasound we're going to try to see if we can hear/see the heartbeat and make sure everything is looking normal.  If we can't I think we'll still go ahead and start sharing with family and friends.  We've been trying to think of creative ways to share but thus far are a bit stumped.  Hopefully we come up with something in the next few weeks.

Week 8

Week 9:  Nothing much has changed this week.  Even though I haven't gained any weight yet, I feel pretty chubby.  If anything, its motivated me to get back in the gym and keep up with my workouts.  I will admit I haven't been as good as I used to be but honestly I just don't have the energy to complete a 30 minute workout anymore.  I've been super tired in the mornings and have just been trying to do what I can.  I think once the first trimester is over I'll be able to get in some longer gym sessions.

No nausea during the day although I do feel it at night.  I've also found that my stomach has really been hurting during the night if I sleep on it.  I'm trying to change my sleeping habits because I know sooner rather than later my stomach will be too big to sleep on.  Maybe these pains are my body's way of telling me this needs to happen asap.

I had a really hard time not telling my mom yesterday.  She was going on about future vacation plans and was wondering if we'd have kids by then.  I wanted to scream, "YES!" but held my tongue.  It was even harder when she said she was going to start cleaning the house out and said we could have the crib when the time came if we wanted it.  Only another two weeks or so till we can start spreading the good news!

9 Weeks.  The bloat has gone down!

The Coast and FEAST V

Like last year we headed down to the coast this Easter.  We took a few more days off to really enjoy the sun, sand and water as well as play in the annual FEAST (Frisbee East Africa Sand Tournament) V.  We landed in Mombasa and headed north to enjoy Bamburi Beach.  Our plan was to soak up some sun here before heading south to Diani for the tournament.

Our hotel was really nice.  The room looked out over the ocean and had an enormous pool.  The first night we just settled in and enjoyed the delicious food.  Next door to the hotel there was this resturant that was famous for its gelato.  Best ice cream I've had in Kenya by far!

The next day we headed out in the afternoon for a little snorkling in a glass bottom boat.  Even though the tide was coming in we had a great time.  I was surprised at how many fish there was on the reef.  We saw parrot fish, a trumpet fish, clown fish and even a box fish.  Josh spotted a large eel after diving down to explore a coral formation.  I wish we could have gone diving but alas you aren't allowed while pregnant!

The next day we headed down to Diani bright and early to get settled into our cottage.  We stayed at a beautiful villa with four large bedrooms and a private pool.  I loved the open air lay out of the living space and we definitly took advantage of this in the evenings.  After a few hours the rest of our team showed up and we headed to the beach!

The beach in Diani is much nicer than in Mombasa.  The sand is almost pure white and the seaweed is less prevelent.  The coast was a bit rocky making swimming a chore but we did have a blast throwing the frisbee around on the sand.  It was hilarious to see the rest of our team's reaction to the strong winds on the beach.  We warned them that its not the same as Kisumu but I don't think it really registered till we started playing.

The team ready to play

Saturday marked the first day of the tournament.  Luckily the weather was a little rainy.  This made for more compact sand and less wind; both huge pluses for the sport.  We were set to play four matches; Nairobi, Tanzania, One Acre Fund, and the Nairobi Teacher's College.  Having not really played together as an unit before, we weren't expecting much coming into the tournament.  Our main goal was to get some experience and have a blast doing so.

Josh gets in a bit of a warm up

The first game against Nairobi was a real wake up call with the final score being 11-0 them.  Again I think we were just struggling to get our barrings and get used to playing in the sand.  Against One Acre Fund we managed to put up 5 points as we started to complete passes and figure out what we were doing.  Tanzania was another hard match but we didn't get shut out this time.  Despite the wind starting to pick up we had a couple of amazing long passes to players streaking into the endzone.  Our final game of the day against Nairobi Teacher's college was honestly one we probably should have won but the long day and hot sun really started to wear us down.  We kept it close but ended up loosing in the end.

Action from the final

On Sunday we had one more game in the round robin against Uganda before reseeding.  Uganda has won the tournament three years in a row and we were just happy to put up 2 points to their 11.  Everyone of those points felt like a victory won.  In the round robin we faced Ethopia and gave them a real run for their money.  Like last year, we ended up playing much better the second day than the first.  We really started to figure out our strentghs and weakness and were adjusting for them.  In the end though, Ethopia ended up taking the match by two points.  Our last game of the tournament was for 11th place and we were up against the Tanzania B team.  Even though the teams were ranked last, I'd say it was our most competitive game of the tournament.  We weren't going home without a win!

Our team!

All in all we had a blast at the tournament.  I think it sparked a passion in a few of our Kenyan teammates to continue on and hopefully will only generate more interest as years go on.  Although we really only play for fun in Kisumu, its nice to get out and compete against some of the better teams in East Africa.

That night we headed to a beautiful resturant located in an old coral cave.  Last year we ate here for Easter dinner and were excited to come back.  I ordered a delicious chicken dish and Josh got a seafood pasta.  It was great to sit around with the rest of the team and reminis about the tournament.  I am so proud of all the players many of which this was one of their first real exposures to the sport.

The next day Josh and I headed back up to Mombasa.  We had an early flight out the following day and wanted to enjoy our last day on the beach.  We went back to the same hotel we had stayed at earlier and enjoyed a quiet walk on the beach.

It was kind of sureal to take that final look at the Indian Ocean because who knows when, if ever, we'll see it again.  As our time here in Kenya ends, every moment seems more and more precious.  I'm so glad that we were able to take this last trip to the coast with our friends.  Its definitly one we won't forget!

Weeks 4, 5, & 6

*I kept this journal as time went on to keep track of what I was feeling when we first found out.

Week 4: I am still in shock.  I have to remind myself constantly that there is a precious little baby growing inside of me.  I just don't feel any different.  I expected to be pretty sick (not that that won't happen in the upcoming weeks) initially but thus far I just have a little nausea in the mornings and minor twinges/cramps now and again.

Telling Josh was my favorite thing.  His brother and sister-in-law always get him an "uncle josh" shirt every time they are expecting.  So I got him a "dad" shirt and said, "I thought you needed a new shirt since your role is changing."  The look on his face was priceless.

Overall we're doing well.  A little scared about this new phase of life we're entering but I think that's to be expected.  You go through these waves of excitement and scared excitement and scared, but we feel so blessed that the Lord has entrusted this little life to us.  We are praying for a safe and healthy pregnancy.

Nothing yet. (That pouch is merely the shirt. I promise.)

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother’s

womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your

works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139:13-14

Week 5: I think I've gotten over the shock and have entered the planning mode.  This week has been about trying to learn as much as I can about pregnancy.  I'm sure every woman feels this way but, I feel like I know NOTHING about what my body is going through.  I've been looking up every twinge and symptom.  Is this normal?  What can't I do?  What should I be doing?  

Josh has been great and really encouraging.  He's adapted this attitude of "your body knows what its doing". Its really helped me not worry as much.  I don't think the fact that we're going to be parents has sunk in yet.  We were watching one of our friends run around with his little boy the other day and I was like, "Babe, do you believe we're going to have one this year?" Craziness!

I still haven't decided when I want to tell family and friends.  I'm bursting with wanting to share yet don't think its time yet.  We definitely need to visit the doctor and make sure everything is alright in there before sharing at least.  That's another thing we need to do...We need to figure out a decent OB in Kisumu.  We have had pregnant friends see doctors here with mixed reviews.  I'm a little hesitant but know that its going to be necessary.  I'm hoping that we can get an appointment after the honeymoon!

Overall I'm not really physically feeling any different than last week.  I have a little nausea throughout the day.  In the evenings though I've been feeling really bloated.  Its like things in there are stretching, kind of like when you're too full.  The worst thing thus far is the insomnia   I don't know if this is due to the pregnancy, because of excitement or anxiety, or just one of those stretches where you have trouble sleeping.  I do know its getting old fast.  Its been taking hours to fall asleep and then its difficult to stay that way.  I don't want to take anything and am hoping it goes away soon.

5 Weeks

Week 6: It may seem a little crazy but I feel like we've known forever already and time is going by really slowly.  I think I feel this way because I am bursting with excitement and cannot wait until we get to share the news with family and friends.  I'm really thankful that we are headed off on our honeymoon next week and hopefully that will make the time seem to go a bit quicker.

The reality of it all is really starting to set in for us.  It makes me really excited to start talking about how our lives our changing and things we should expect down the road.  Speaking of that, I am starting to look into some pregnancy books.  I'd like to get a couple and do some reading.  Its a bit daunting picking a book as there are literally hundreds out there.  I've been reading reviews and am so thankful to have been given a list by someone who's gone through this a couple of times :)

I'm still feeling really good.  I haven't had much nausea and the stretching feeling has for the most part gone away.  I'm not naive in thinking that it won't come back, but I'm enjoying every good day.  This week I've noticed I'm more tired and have a hard time getting out of bed in the morning.  Its hard for me to accept as I am not a napper but I keep telling myself that there's a little baby in there who needs me to rest so he/she can grow.

*Note I wrote this the first day of the week.  I was surprised that literally hours later I was hit with the worse nausea that I had experienced thus far.  I feel lucky that I haven't had to run to the bathroom yet but this week has thus been the worse for stomach.  I've found I feel really poor till about 10 am when I have this crazy spurt of energy.  Then it goes downhill from there and I usually end up camped out on the couch for the rest of the afternoon.

This week I've also noticed how poorly I've been eating lately.  Although I don't have nausea nothing really has sounded good to me.  If you know me, I have to be in the mood for certain foods and can be somewhat of a picky eater.  Unfortunately I haven't been in the mood for veggies.  I have been loving my morning fruit smoothie and my occasional tomato/green pepper salad but its not enough. Case in point: I had box mac and cheese for lunch.  I'm going to try to make a point of improving my diet in the upcoming weeks.  Less starches and sugar.  More protein and veggies.

6 weeks.  Nothing but bloat!

No Foolin'!

We are so excited to announce that we are expecting our first child.  We feel so blessed that the Lord has entrusted this precious gift to us.  Looking forward to meeting Baby Bast sometime around 

October 1, 2013!