Thanskgiving

Let me start by staying that so many things have happened this year to Jon and myself we cannot name everything we are grateful for (but I'll try!!!!) First each other- we were able to live together again starting in March!!!!! We are both healthy. Jonathan is one of the top in his class preparing for an excellent career, I am fortunate enough to have a job. We welcomed a new life into the family, David Mark, who is amazing. We celebrated one year of marriage in September (that year seemed liked it almost did happen it went so fast!!!!). We found out we were expecting our first baby and EVERYTHING has been healthy with the baby so far and we are so thankful for that. Our families are still in excellent health and remain incredibly loving and supporting to us at all times. On the Drakes side, after our baby is born, two more babies will be welcomed into the world! We still have our country and freedom. I'm thankful for that and all those who fight for it. As I am becoming a parent, I'm realizing something more and more. My parents always told me that I could have no idea how much they loved me until I had a child of my own to love. They are right. And of couse, the example of how God have up his only child for my salvation has become more eye opening to me. I have a new "respect" and as I realize how much love God has for me as his child, and how much I imagine I'll love my child (and already do), I realize that I fall drastically short. God's love for me is way greater for me than I could ever feel for another human being.

On another note, I felt something weird in my belly on Monday and wasn't quite sure what it was. The doctor on Monday asked me if I've felt the baby move yet- I wasn't sure. So I described what I had felt for her and she said it was definitely the baby!!! I've been feeling it more and more. It is so amazing. Jonathan is jealous that he can't feel it yet but I'm hoping he will be able to by Christmas.

We hope all have a wonderful Thanksgiving with your family or friends, wherever you are!!!

Much Love!!!

November appointment and Mark's first Charlotte trip

Baby and I went to the doctor today for a "mommy" check up. All went well. I was able to hear the baby's heartbeat through doppler; it was mid to upper 150s. They were very happy about that. I met with Dr. Fox today (for only about 2 minutes) but I really liked her. I have a feeling that all will be better than the first one. Our next appointment is December 18th when we'll have the baby's anatomy scan and check out the kidneys and brain, etc. Dr. Fox said told me today that since we're not finding out the baby's gender, that they won't know either, which assures for no slip ups!!!! I have been sick this 2nd trimester, but it is still nothing compared to some of my friends so I have nothing to complain out.

This weekend, we had our first visitors in our new apartment! Ali, David and their angel Mark came!!!! We had a blast!!! Ali had to go photograph a wedding in Arizona, so I got to hoard Mark to myself :) It was precious!!!!! I bonded with him so much. They brought him by my office today and everyone there just loved him!!!

For thanksgiving, we are going up to Richmond on Thursday, staying at the Drakes. We're going to try to see as much family while we're in VA as we can!!!!

Please continue to pray for our health this cold and flu season. Below are some pictures of Mark's trip to Charlotte!!!

Love to you all.

Back in Mom's arms


Our big man in his new fleece outift



Teething, anyone?




Head of the table





What a handsome little man!!!