Heart Beat

Today I went in for my second baby checkup. I am seeing a certified Nurse Midwife who was recommended to me by two of my sister-in-laws and I have been very pleased with her thus far. Although my visit was short today it was very special. Scott came along with me so that we could hear the heart beat of our baby. To be honest with you all I was a bit nervous wondering if there would only be a void of noise and I would wake up and not really be pregnant. I certainly don't look pregnant! Silly maybe but still a thought running through my brain. So when my midwife found a little heart beat stepping close in time with my own blood surge I was totally relieved. I'm telling you it put a spring in my step and thankfulness in my heart. My nausea is still lingering but for some reason it all seems worth it now knowing that there is someone beautiful inside of me growing and moving closer to my heart every day! God be praised!

Come Fall

Come fall and Scott and I are usually out looking for some adventures. On a blistery sunday afternoon we found ourselves up on a mt. near Dunlap TN at Wheelers Orchard. We had no idea what to expect but upon arrival we were pleasantly surprised. A small family owned orchard, friendly faces both human and canine, and the best apple cider I've tasted in a good long while. Growing up in NJ some folks may say that my husband and I missed out on apple picking season but oh! that couldn't be further from the truth. We both grew up with families who found some of the best places to pick your own apples, pet farm animals and blissfully consume all the apple cider donuts our little hands could grab. I still remember going to a farm like this with the barn all lit up hay bales everywhere and the most amazing pies, cookies, candies and apples you could ever imagine. It all looked so amazing. Although picking season was long over by the time we arrived at Wheelers orchard we were thrilled to get a few bags filled with some juicy treats and walk the grounds remembering past fall excursions.

Scott running after his sister in an apple orchard

God gave us you

On Wednesday I will be three months into my pregnancy. It's hard to believe such an amazing thing is happening inside of my body. I would post a picture of my progression but really... I look pretty much the same.. no cute baby belly at least not yet so I will spare you the normal pose. Some of you may be wondering just how Scott and I feel about this new time in our lives and if this baby was planned. Even before I was married to Scott I remember thinking that really God is in control of opening and closing my womb. I think about how many times this is found in the Bible. Even today I was reading about Elizabeth and the miraculous birth of John and well we all know who came next.... So surely if God did this sort of thing in times past he could do it for me when I was in that position. And so Scott and I both felt a peace in our hearts that when the time was right the Lord would choose to bless us, and so it is with the conception of our wee babe. So no we weren't really planning this but we were totally open to the workings of our Father and we are humbly blessed.

My mother-in-law has come to stay with us for a week or so and upon her arrival she gave us a book called God gave us you. I read through it with a few tears in my eyes as I tried to imagine reading it to our little child telling them what a blessing they are and how God did give them to us. I can't think of a more comforting thought to be loved by both mother and father and our heavenly Father. I know that through the experience of bearing a child I will be closer to my Lord. For he was the one who truly gave up all. sacrificed everything for his children. Now that I am faced with the realization of sacrificing for my child I know I will need to cling even closer to the King of sacrifice. Yet I want to keep in mind the joy that is so evident during this time. Scott has been very upbeat even dancing some crazy jigs in the kitchen. shocker I know! He will be a wonderful father and friend to our children and I can't wait to see him shine in this role. Hopefully soon he'll share his thoughts on the matter. But for now you'll have to hear from me! Peace

Milos is for lovers

There was so much to see while we were in Greece it's hard to put it all down. Yet one place seemed to stir me the most...Milos.
This was a new adventure for both Scott and I and it was well worth the plane, bus, metro, highspeed ferry, and taxi drive to get there. The atmosphere of the people in Milos seemed so laid back and friendly. We stayed in the upper village of Triovassalos at a bed and breakfast that was run by a very wonderful couple. The husband Rod was our kayaking instructor for two days of blissful travel and his wife Petrinela cared for all of our other needs. Due to morning sickness the first day was spend driving around the island exploring some famous sights like Sarakinkiko, a pristine beach with the whitest rock I've ever seen, the spot where the Venus de Milos was located, and Christian catacombs. When we finally were able to get out and kayak we saw some of the most massive rock formations I've ever seen, hot springs, and deep caves we explored. The water was so clear and blue and the wind was refreshing and freeing. At night we would go up to Plaka or another local town and dine on typical Greek taverna fair and relax as we watched the sun sinking low. As I reflect on that beautiful island I am reminded of the what Psalms says..."The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge." We were truly blessed to be able to experience some of the most beautiful places in Greece and we were doubly blessed to have smooth travels and safety during the whole duration of our trip. Prayers that our family and friends lifted up for us were definitely heard and answered. I hope that Scott and I will be able to share more pictures and stories with everyone as we are able to meet up with them.

Home again home again....

Going back to Greece was like going home for me in so many ways. I was able to be reunited with my aunts, uncle, cousins and 2nd cousins who all seemed so happy to have me back and to welcome my husband. I was also able be reunited with the beauty and mystery that is Greece. Although a few things had changed since last I went most everything seemed familiar and inviting. (except maybe the public bathrooms!)
The one thing that stood out in my mind as we visited with family was how much we laughed together. My Aunt Irene told some strange but funny stories that had us all crying. My cousin Maria's two children Andreas 9 and Irene 7 were always a source of laughter and fun. At one point while we were hanging out at my cousin Sophia's house (which use to be my Yaya's) Andreas who reminds me of my Uncle Steve broke out in his best Greek dance moves ever! Serious he waved his arms around and slapped the floor, periodically whirling around when most appropriate.
I was also encouraged by how my family seemed to be progressing. Sophia is working on her house, painting and fixing things up, Maria has a beautiful little place she is working on and is doing a wonderful job, and they are running a clothing store which seems to be frequented by many of the locals. I am excited to see how things continue to go for them all.