IT'S A ...

It is time for the big gender reveal! Thank you to the Harmony Blood Test for allowing us to find out super early in the pregnancy! You can do the test once you hit the 10 week mark and then you wait about 10 days for the results. We are happy to report that all signs show that Baby #2 is healthy and thriving!

Thanks Gretchen with MC Squared for capturing these pictures!

There isn't much to say, because honestly the pictures say it all, but we are very, very excited to announce....


 

Here is Charlotte praying for Baby "BOY" every night. 

I'm hoping to start bump dates this weekend! 

Baby Chance #2

Photos by MC Squared

We are so excited to be expecting Baby #2 and it has been extra special sharing this experience with Charlotte. She is super into all things baby right now and even though she doesn't fully understand, she is very excited about the idea of having a baby in our house and a baby brother or sister to call her own!

It was just couple months back that I wrote a post for Jax Moms Blog about conceiving Baby #2. Our journey to have Charlotte was a very short one, so I wasn't sure what to expect for Baby #2. We were under a little more stress with preparing for a cross country, but nevertheless, God always has a plan and here we are now pregnant with #2!

Our first photo as a family of 4!

Charlotte loves the doctor appointments. She is wearing her gloves in this picture!

How did we find out? 
We had just returned back from San Francisco from picking Charlotte up from my mom. We were living in the Navy Lodge while we waited for our house to become available. Every morning, Kyle would go down to the lobby and get breakfast and bring it back to our room. I woke up feeling a little different and just had an inkling that I may be pregnant. I had some tests in my suitcase, so I took one and sure enough it was positive! I realized Charlotte and Kyle would be back any second and I wanted to surprise them, so I quickly threw the test into a Starbucks coffee mug box (I know, so random) and when they walked back in, I told them I had a surprise. Here is what I captured:

I only wish I let the video record longer! Such a sweet memory!

I will be the first to admit, that I immediately went into freak-out mode. I don't think it helped that we were living in a hotel, in the middle of a huge move, with a ton of unknowns. I've talked to many other moms who have felt the same way, but I am much more at ease now that we are more settled. Charlotte will be almost 4 years old when Baby #2 arrives and I think she will be a great helper!

Will we find out the sex? 
As much as I would LOVE to have it be a surprise, we've decided and we just don't think we can keep it a secret. I took the Harmony Blood Test last week and we should have the results soon. Stay tuned for a gender reveal. My guess is girl!

Morning Sickness?
One of the first things people ask when they find out your pregnant is, "How are you feeling?" I am so blessed to be feeling amazing! It was the same with Charlotte! I never had any morning sickness or nausea, just a few food aversions. I instantly dropped 7 lbs. once I got pregnant (that's what not drinking wine will do for ya, whoops) and the same thing happened when I got pregnant with Charlotte. I am thankful that I have been able to stay active, running 2 times a week with my running group and trying new workouts like Cross Fit and Barre. I know I am one of the lucky ones and I feel so blessed to be feeling good!

Cravings? 
Oh goodness, yes these are real. So I definitely have been craving more junk food, for sure, but I try to balance it out everyday with something healthy or doing a Shakeology shake in place of a meal. I treat myself every now and then to a 7-11 Slurpee (this was a huge craving in my pregnancy with Charlotte, too). I also ventured to the next town over to satisfy my Olive Garden craving! We will definitely be making the hour plus trip to San Jose to get Chick-Fil-A soon, too!

Bumpdates?
If you followed my blog during my pregnancy with Charlotte, you'll remember I did bump dates every week in the same black bathing suit! I still go back and reminisce about those posts! I'm really hoping to continue the trend, but not sure I will have enough time or energy to do weekly! It's such a great way to document the pregnancy and makes such a great memory, though.

Thanks for all the well wishes, texts and calls! They mean a lot to us and we are so excited!! We can't wait to find out if Charlotte will have a baby brother or sister!

Charlotte's Big Girl Room

We are coming up on the one month mark of being in our new home and I am finally starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel. Last week we got new carpet, which was awesome, but all of the bedrooms had to be disassembled and then put back together, so that set us back a little. Moving has definitely gotten harder each time. Probably because we have more stuff and also a toddler who likes to undo all the progress that we make!

One of the first rooms I focused on was Charlotte's room, because of course, she is the princess! But, in all seriousness, I wanted her to feel settled and I knew she would adjust better once her room was complete.

If you remember my post back in March over on Jax Moms Blog, we transitioned Charlotte from her crib to big girl bed. It was a rough adjustment, but it was so fun putting together her new room and she loved the freedom of getting in and out her bed.

Between staying with grandparents and living in a hotel for a week, her sleep schedule was off and we weren't sure how it was going to go in her new room. Overall, she is doing really well and really loves her room. We occasionally get a visitor in the morning between 5 and 6, but if we are lucky, she will lay back down for a little bit.

Now onto the details of her room! I just love it so much! Charlotte is a lucky girl, too, because she has TWO closets! Now, they are on the smaller side, but I put princess dresses in one and her regular clothes in another!

Charlotte's Room!

The Flamingo print was my first purchase for her room and by far one of my favorite things!

Love how this shelf turned out with the print and photos from Thistle Photo Co. 

Bed: IKEA Hemnes Day Bed 

Duvet Cover: Pottery Barn Kids Pearl Dot Duvet Cover, Bright Pink 

Euro Shams: PB Teen Crinkle Puff Euro Sham, Bright Pink 

Standard Shams: Etsy, Love of Lilly Custom Order 

Throw Pillows: Southern Tide from Home Goods 

Monogram: Pottery Barn Kids Harper Monogram, Pink

Curtains: Pillowfort for Target Tassel Lightblocking Curtain Panel

Flamingo Art, Shelf and Lamp: Home Goods

I'm hoping to share more of our house soon! It is an interesting layout and has been a little bit challenging to decorate, but I am happy with the progress we are making! Until next time!

The Skinny on my 5 Day Clean Eating Challenge

Ok, so I'm fresh off of the 5 Day Clean Eating Challenge and I don't want to go back! My sweet friend and Beachbody Coach, Ashleigh, motivated me to do the challenge and I am so glad I accepted! Leading up to the challenge, I was provided a meal plan and shopping list for the week. The good news- there were LOTS of options for each meal of the day and variety was key to me! We were just coming back into town from a weekend away, but thankfully my amazing hubby stepped up, grocery shopped and meal prepped while I did laundry and cared for Charlotte! Honestly, for me the hardest part of this challenge was not indulging in a glass of wine every night. Other than that, I felt completely satisfied and full after every single meal! It is amazing what good, clean food tastes like and how your body actually craves it when it is rid of all the junk! Due to my work schedule, I was only able to get i 2 workouts that week, so I feel like your results could be even better if you did a workout (as suggested) every day. The challenge was hosted in a Facebook group and the support was amazing! I would highly encourage this to anyone who is looking to jumpstart their fitness/health journey!

Kyle also joined me and was so glad he did. He lost 9 lbs! The basis of the challenge was 3 meals, 2 snacks and then lots of water!

 My Results. I couldn't be happier. I see change and I feel amazing.
I lost a total of 5lbs and 1.5 inches off of my waist! 

Here is a recap of my week, including a few of the recipes I made.

Getting my 100oz. in after a workout! I drank over 100 oz. of water every day during the challenge! 

Lunch on the Run! One thing the challenge taught me is to be prepared! Take a lunchbox with you!
You'll be so glad you did! 

My colorful cart! I love clean eating!

Flank Steak & Summer Chick Pea Salad 

Want to be in the next challenge group? I can connect you with Ashleigh and get you set of the next one! We are actually following the challenge again this week! We are hooked!

I'll Never Make a 30 under 30 List

When I was in college, well even in high school, I thought it would be so cool to be on one of those lists. You know, the ones put out by the local magazine or networking group? "Top 30 Professionals under 30" or "40 Entrepreneurs under 40" come to mind. A list you only make after lots of schooling and hard work; a true accomplishment.

Just the other day, I was in the bathroom doing a quick touch up to my hair and makeup in between a dance class and our weekly bible study. As I looked at myself in the mirror, a few thoughts came to mind. I began to quickly realize that no matter how hard I work, I would never make one of these lists. You see, because of my husband's career we are lucky to stay in one place for 2 years, maybe 3 years max. The longevity and ability to make connections happens just as we are on our way out to our next duty station.

As we got in the car that evening, I mentioned this revelation I just had to my husband. His immediate response was, "Why do you need to be on a list to feel successful?" And of course, I immediately felt like a HORRIBLE person for even wanting to be on a list! I don't need a list. I am successful and feel blessed beyond words, but sometimes it is nice to be recognized, to be on that list, to feel like you have done something good.

To be honest, I wouldn't change a thing about the life we live. I am forced to adapt to new environments (and get new licenses wherever we go) and make the best of the cards we've been dealt. Through it all, God has always provided for us no matter where the Navy sent us and I am truly grateful for that.

At the end of the day, I don't need a list. But like many of my fellow military spouses/moms/parents, sometimes we just need a pat on the back to know that we are doing "OK". I have and always will be a working military spouse. I take great pride in my work and career and although their may be bumps in the road, I will make it past. My best advice is to follow your dreams and take that leap of faith to do what you have always dreamed of, regardless of the time or how long you may be stationed in XYZ. Live every day to the fullest and you will not be disappointed!

The Daniel Fast: Part 2

Today is Day 17 of the Daniel Fast and I am definitely ready to celebrate the end of the fast! If I have another brown rice bowl with black beans, I may get sick, lol! We've had a veggie bowl from Chipotle a couple of times and I vow that I probably won't eat there again for MONTHS! I found another great option at Zoe's Kitchen! Their Veggie Kabobs with Greek Salad (no feta) and their potato salad (no mayo) is Vegan!

I have lost 9 lbs and my clothes are definitely looser so that is definitely an added plus! I still haven't experienced increased energy or clarity. I have been going to bed pretty early though, which has definitely been a good thing and trying to wake up earlier so that I can workout before Charlotte wakes up. My prayer life has definitely increased and become more meaningful so I am very grateful for that! Overall, it has been a great experience and I would highly recommend it! It has definitely helped having Kyle and I do it together!

Anyways, a couple of new recipes to share for those who have been asking!

Roasted Chickpeas

These are a great staple to have on hand for when people come over, so easy and so healthy! 

-Preheat oven to 450 degrees 

- Drain, rinse and pat chickpeas dry. 

-Toss with olive oil and salt, pepper and your favorite seasonings. 

- Roast in oven for 20-25 minutes until desired crispiness. 

A friend wasn't using some of her Green Chef meals that she ordered, so she let me try them out. This is a similar meal service like Blue Apron, but all of the ingredients are organic. The ingredients also come in these little containers and most everything is chopped. We made this delicious Thai Green Curry and just omitted the chicken to fall in line with the fast! So easy and really yummy! Thanks again, Beth!

Green Chef Thai Green Chile Curry with Mango 

I made Sweet Potato Burritos on Tuesday night and they were great! Sweet Potatoes are so delicious and their texture really makes up for the lack of meat! You can view the recipe here!

Kyle made Sweet Potato Curry last week and by far that has been my favorite recipe! Not surprised because he is an amazing chef (who also makes a MESS in the kitchen when he cooks)! We had a friend over who is also doing the Daniel Fast and I think it was the best meal he had on the fast! :) Kyle tweaked the recipe a bit, but you can find the recipe here! Kyle didn't use lemongrass (couldn't find it at the grocery) and chopped his own San Marzano tomatoes instead of crushed tomatoes. 

A couple of more days! Say a prayer we can survive the last few days!

The Daniel Fast: Part 1

We are almost one week into the Daniel Fast and definitely taking it one day at a time! The fast has definitely been interesting- very challenging on some days and easier on others. I am grateful for the easy days, but also embracing the challenging days as I know that's when I need to lean in most and turn to God to help me through. I have prayed way more than I ever would if I wasn't doing the fast!

 I will admit, I thought I would experience more "side effects" like mental clarity, an energy boost and weight loss. I've lost 3 lbs since starting the fast. You would think I would have lost 10 lbs by now with all the things I have eliminated (of course, Kyle has)!  I think for me that is partly because of the high carb nature of the fast. I will say, I have NEVER been able to stick to a diet of any sort or abstain from wine (except for when I was pregnant) for more than a few days. This fast has been great because it has revealed to me that I can and the funny thing is I KNOW that I can't cheat. It just isn't an option!

Every day I try to write down a few words to sum up my day. Here is my journey so far:

Day 1- Struggled. Thought about food or lack thereof most of the day. Had to grab internet at Dunkin Donuts and I got to smell the donuts! Torture! 

Day 2- Woke up feeling lighter and refreshed

Day 3- Struggled in the morning with getting out of the house. Made it to work out. Headache in afternoon. On edge

Day 4- Felt good most of day. Kind of bored, which just showed us our weekends revolved around eating and drinking. Whoops! Napped when Charlotte napped. Went to see a movie and brought our approved snacks with us! 

Day 5- Felt rather defeated! Went to an event that had lots of yummy food and wine! That was a challenge. 

Day 6- Woke up with major stomach issues! Not sure what it could be as everything i am eating is fresh. Took the day off from working out and tried to feel better. 

Day 7-Today was much better! I was busy and didn’t have much time to think about being hungry or missing things. Didn’t eat lunch until 2pm, but felt very satisfied with my hummus and veggies 

Here are some of my go to snacks:
-  Bare Cinnamon Banana Chips 
-  Way Better Sweet Potato Chips
- Skinny Pop Popcorn 
- Hummus with Carrots, Celery and Cucumbers
- Cashews, Sunflower Seeds, Salt & Pepper Pistachios
- Brown Rice Cakes (plain or with natural peanut butter or guacamole)
- Cotton Candy Grapes (these are amazing and worth the $10 I spent on them today at Publix)
- Honey Crisp Apples

Some of my go to snacks! Jury is still out on Brad's Crunchy Kale!

As I mentioned earlier, Kyle and I quickly realized that our weekends involve going out to eat and indulging. So, we were happy to find some restaurants that were Daniel fast friendly and also available in a quick pinch if we didn't have something to eat at home.

Chipotle- Brown Rice, Black Beans, Veggies, Salsa, Guacamole. Their corn tortillas are also "safe". 

Toss Green- We had their Mango and Grain Bowl. Their dressings are home-made and their Cashew Dressing and Avocado Vinaigrette are approved! 

Grain & Mango Bowl with Avocado Vinaigrette

Fresh Jax- We actually haven't had their food yet, but they have many vegan options, including a sweet potato curry. You can follow them on instagram for their weekly features. 

I made a delicious salad on Saturday night! I would definitely make it again. You can find the recipe here. I substituted Spring Mix for the Spinach and used my Vitamix Blender to make the dressing! 

Roasted Chickpea, Quinoa and Tomato Salad with Avocado Basil Dressing 

Tomorrow I am trying a Vegan Hearty Slow Cooker Chili  for our Disciple Group meeting tomorrow night. I'll let you know how it goes! I chopped all the ingredients tonight and then will throw in the crockpot in the morning to simmer all day. Sounds yummy! 

That's all for now! Will be back with another update soon! Praying we survive the Labor Day weekend! No hotdogs or hamburgers for us! :)