alone and pregnant

I've been alone a lot lately. Brady is in South America on his MBA internation trip. I am proud of myself that I haven't cried at all since he left. Well, except for when I called my mom the night he left. Hearing her voice and telling her I was on my own didn't help. Other than that I have only gotten teary eyed a few times. Like when he told me that he bought the baby a present. Or when he emailed me from Buenos Aires and ended his email by saying: "I love you very much and I promise to both of us that we're coming back to this and soon." He loves the city. I can't wait to see pictures.

The day before Brady left, I cried off and on the entire day. I was so grateful for his sweetness and tenderness as he hugged me and told me yet again that it was going to be okay. He was going to be home very soon. I blame the antics on being pregnant. I mean come on. A pregnant lady should not be left alone...and at Chirstmas! Obviously this wasn't anything Brady or I could do anything about. The baby is becoming more active and I am grateful for her little kicks. I'm grateful for the company.

To keep myself busy while he has been gone, I knew I needed a project. The original plan had been to paint our bedroom as a surprise Christmas gift to Brady. Then, after having finished the baby's room, I had had it with painting for a while. I decided instead to make a baby quilt. I just finished assembling the top last night and tonight I will get it ready to quilt while we're in Utah.

Thursday I will finally pick Brady up from the airport and we'll head home. And we can't wait. All three of us.

halfway there

Yesterday I reached 20 weeks in my pregnancy. I felt very accomplished as I woke up and had reached the halfway mark--which is funny because I don't really deserve much credit at this point, but it made me happy all the same.


A week ago, we had the mid-pregnancy ultrasound. I was really excited, but almost sad to go because I knew that once it was over, we most likely won't see her again until she gets here. It was fun to see how much she has grown in four weeks. Her little movements were more noticeable and deliberate. They measured everything and it was great to hear that she looks healthy and perfect.

our sweet little one

her baby face

and perfect profile

We are so excited to have this little one join us, but are enjoying the preparation and anticipation. It has been fun to be pregnant at Christmas time as we celebrate the Savior's birth. I find myself thinking and wondering about her as I listen to Christmas music and at other times, as I reflect on Him it makes me think about her. Merry Christmas sweet baby.

It was fun to have our first out-of-town guests come stay at our little home this weekend. Brady's sister Lindsey and her husband Ben came to visit Arizona State University in Phoenix and stayed here last night. It was great to see family and compare notes with them as they consider graduate programs. We really hope they end up in Arizona.