cousins, god-sisters, the best of friends

family has arrived!

this is a 2 second video but it's one of my favorites. the joy on everones face is so special to me. and i will never forget the joy in my heart, or the Joi in my belly.

Grace Faith Joy, all 5 of us physically together for a very special few days. <3

i can only imagine

on this day. i sat in the parking lot at school. listening to this song. bawling. hands raised. it was like an experience i had never so randomly had. i was shouting hallelujah. and now that i look back. i realize Joislen was anticipating her encounter with our heavenly father. i was there that morning. but it was not my worship. GO AHEAD LITTLE WORSHIPPER. PRAISE YOUR GOD! PRAISE OUR GOD!

Handmade

Joislen got many many many many gifts. This one is special though, because it was handmade for her.

So uncle RJ Valdez handcrafted our Joisicle some sentimental props, that she can also gnaw on--This must have been the most creative baby shower gift that one could conjure up! I know you researched the benefits of non-plastic products to satisfy the oral fixation and soothe the teething phenomena. And her first iPhone?! U maaaay just be in the running for God father with this one! thanks brother

Our celebration of life---the baby shower day

yes. we sung "happy baby shower to you" to her :o)

Today. Was the smoothest. Most blessed day I could've asked for. I am so thankful to everyone who came out. N those who couldn't make it but still sent love. I'm so thankful for the chill vibe and God getting the glory. Joislen getting plenty of things she needs. I love our friends and family so much. We really appreciate every gesture. Everyone was so helpful fun and loving. And I'm just glad people relaxed! seriously think today was one of my best days in California. So thanks everyone. For your selflessness

and the pictures....

The future is unknown and its possibilities are endless

With all the hope and hell, beauty and ashes, and kindness and cruelty that this life has to offer, all I can be is thankful. Thankful for the ability to feel-- to feel anything really: The sun on my skin, the exhaustion in my body at times, the tumbles of my unborn child in my womb, the hugs of loved ones, the kisses of a devoted man who truly who knows me. Thankful, above all, for grace. Thankful that my stock ain't in this place. 8 months prego today. Brewing this baby. The future is unknown and its possibilities are endless. If buts and maybes sure to a part of this journey. Will I face great tragedy, or even fulfill my destiny? resilience, will you take me through it all? Fear and anxiety try to choke out my joy. But I do trust in the only one who knows everything. there in is my peace.

showered with love!

What an amazing group of people. Cohort 48 decided to throw me a surprise baby shower! Good laughs great people. Love my nursing family! a big thanks from Joislen and I. Much love!!!!

grandpas chicken

Joislen loves her papaw!!!!!!!!!! ‪#‎spoileddaughterinlaw‬ ‪#‎spoiledgrandbaby‬ ‪#‎nomnom‬ next up in the kitchen? Nina grace!

not what you expected

crib buidling

Babe put together the crib last night. I went through some clothes. Can't thank Auntie ally enough--we love ya

thoughts on labor

Whatever labor brings me. I am determined to enjoy it's beauty. And though I will be in a birthing facility. I will be in His arms. It's a spiritual thing for me. Living through labor, and coming out with a child, means it will be a praise report. No matter what it brings. ‪#‎perspective‬

invitation

Hope you all are ready to bring this baby into the world with a big celebration with us! we sure are! hope to see you in 2 weekends!!!!!!!!!!

Our Lovely Maternity Photoshoot