23

dear evelyn,

it seems that there's been a physically noticeable change from last week to this one. i'm feeling the aches and pains in my back and joints and i can feel the swelling in body. i no longer fit into my wedding ring, so i've changed over to my special band that is a little bigger and my belly button is working it's way out to be in outie! more and more people have been making comments about my pregnancy and i'm trying to stay positive. because truly, i get to house and grow your body, which is such a high privilege that i know so many yearn to be blessed with. i've been determined to keep our bodies healthy by exercising five times a week with my high-intensity workout videos. since the weather has warmed up, your older sisters and i have started walking to, around, and back from the lake-- amelia has built up to 2 miles, and i think we're going to run murray's independence day 5k this summer! i'm glad i have motivation to set a good example for, you girls truly have made me a better human that i've ever been before. daddy has been allowing me to nap every saturday, which is such a saving grace to my sanity. he works so hard to support and provide for our family and he also spends so much of his free time looking for a car and a house that will fit our growing family; i feel so blessed to have a man who takes his husbandly and fatherly roles so seriously. i've also been cancelled from work for the last 3 weeks, which has been surprising in this spring season, but i'm grateful for the extra rest and time with my family.

although this week has been challenging, it's clear where we have been blessed. my troubles truly are few and so insignificant compared to the troubles of the world. these days, i'm working hard on being kind and serving others, being a constant example as a mother, rising above (or possibly just avoiding) negativity, and just being happy.

you've been moving a bit less this week, and amelia's getting a little impatient with you. we read that your skeletal structure is developing and your kicks should be noticeably stronger in the coming weeks. we can't wait!

love you love you!
mom