Luke 2:11"Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Monday, December 14, 2009
Tired...
I am really tired.
I have a super busy week that includes two work parties, 2 lunch meetings, lots of packing and cleaning, 3 days in the office and a few other important events.
I am really tired.
We leave for Michigan this Saturday. We will be there for 2 full weeks. Our flight takes off at 6am. So, the alarm will be set in the late 3's. That is not even a godly hour. No one should be waking up late into 3am.
Vacation is coming... but for now I am tired. Really tired.
I have a super busy week that includes two work parties, 2 lunch meetings, lots of packing and cleaning, 3 days in the office and a few other important events.
I am really tired.
We leave for Michigan this Saturday. We will be there for 2 full weeks. Our flight takes off at 6am. So, the alarm will be set in the late 3's. That is not even a godly hour. No one should be waking up late into 3am.
Vacation is coming... but for now I am tired. Really tired.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Butternut Squash Tortellini with Herbed Butter Sauce
This recipe is rich, decadent and delicious. It is a mixture of a recipe I found in a kid's magazine and than a episode of Everyday Italian with Giada. I kinda of made it my own little way and it is simple and delicious.
Ingredients~
Filling:
2 cups of butternut squash, rind removed, cut into 1in cubes ( I usually just use one large squash)
1 tablespoon of milk
1/2 cup of grated Parmesan
1/8 teaspoon of nutmeg
Sauce:
1 stick of butter
12-16 fresh sage leaves, thinly sliced ( I just used the dry rubbed sage)
Shells:
Won Ton wrappers found in the salad/produce aisle
Directions:
Heat oven to 350degrees. Arrange the squash on a tinfoil lined baking sheet and roast for 30-40 minutes until tender. Cool for 5 minutes. Blend the squash, milk, nutmeg and cheese until smooth, like a mashed potato-like texture. ( This can be made in advanced and stored in the fridge for a day)
Take the won ton wrappers and using a bowl of water and a pastry brush, brush all four sides of the wrapper. (You can use your finger if you don't have a brush) Place a small amount of the filling in the center and fold the corners into a triangle. Press together making sure that all air bubbles are removed. Wet the two outside corners and fold together in the middle, making a little hat or tortellini. Dry the surface after each batch, or the won tons can get sticky and not fold together.
Place the tortellini into boiling water. When the float to the top, they are ready. They cook quickly, maybe 5 minutes.
Sauce: Heat the stick of butter in a pan. Put in the sage and continue to heat the butter till it started to brown and has a nutty scent, about 4 minutes. Remove from heat.
Pour the sauce over the tortellini and enjoy!
It is so yummy and tastes fancy-schmancy!
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Off it goes....
I am off to my hair appointment today.
Remember this post?
Well, the vote was short.
The hubby also voted short.
So off it goes...
It can always grow back, right?!?!
Remember this post?
Well, the vote was short.
The hubby also voted short.
So off it goes...
It can always grow back, right?!?!
Monday, November 30, 2009
MBA widow
I am an MBA widow this week. Ryan is finishing his MBA and will have his last final due at midnight this Sunday. That means that my hubs will work 10 hour days, come home and eat and than leave for the library till midnight. Every. Single. Night.
Which leaves the little man and I to fend for ourselves for the week.
I am BEYOND excited for Ryan to finish school. He has been going at it for 2 1/2 years straight, no summers off. I can't really remember what our life was like before school. What did we do? I have no idea. The only break Ryan has had has been during vacations. So real life has not given us many breaks from school.
But he is done. Sunday.
I really am SO proud of him. He works 60+ hours a week at a high intensity job, he is a wonderful husband and an amazing father. He is diligent in his studies and will graduate cum laude. He was invited to speak in Peru along side his professors. He was the stand out student for his professors. He is also one of the youngest students in the Global Leadership and Entrepreneurship school. ( His master's is in Business Administration in the GLE school) He is only 25 years old. I am so proud of him.
And SO excited to get my hubby back!!!
Which leaves the little man and I to fend for ourselves for the week.
I am BEYOND excited for Ryan to finish school. He has been going at it for 2 1/2 years straight, no summers off. I can't really remember what our life was like before school. What did we do? I have no idea. The only break Ryan has had has been during vacations. So real life has not given us many breaks from school.
But he is done. Sunday.
I really am SO proud of him. He works 60+ hours a week at a high intensity job, he is a wonderful husband and an amazing father. He is diligent in his studies and will graduate cum laude. He was invited to speak in Peru along side his professors. He was the stand out student for his professors. He is also one of the youngest students in the Global Leadership and Entrepreneurship school. ( His master's is in Business Administration in the GLE school) He is only 25 years old. I am so proud of him.
And SO excited to get my hubby back!!!
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Happy Thanksgiving!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Counting down...
till Ryan comes home from Peru. I can't wait! Jack and I have been going at it alone for the last 5 days, and we are more than ready to him back home.
I tried to fill our days with activities and friends while Ryan was gone. Jack stayed busy with lots of play dates and mom stayed busy at night with lots of movies.
We spent our Saturday with my childhood best friend. It is such a blessing to have her within an hour's drive. Who would have guessed that two home schooled girls who used to dream of their first kiss, first boyfriend and being married by 18 ( come on, we were kids. That sounded so old to us) would be 17 hours away from our home, yet an hour from each other. We both are married to wonderful men and we both have kids. Faith has 2 beautiful boys, 5 and 3 and the new little lady Lily who is almost 5 months old. Jack fills in that missing 1 1/2 year gap of ages. At dinner, Reuben, the five year old, asked Jack if they could be friends, because he really wanted to be friends with Jack. Jack very seriously answered "Yes". Faith and I were so touched. Our little boys would be friends, how we were friends.
While Jack and I hung out with friends, Ryan has been impacted by the people of Peru. He has met former presidents, spoke at prestigious universities, met with wealthy business men and the chambers of commerce. He saw the richest part of Lima. He also spoke at one of the poor universities, next to the countless shanty towns where the poor come to the city to make a living and end up in a shanty, even more poor. He saw both worlds of Peru and was greatly impacted by both. I am so excited to hear all that stories of what happened. Ryan feels like God strategically placed him there for the week and I am excited to see what doors will open.
While I do most of the cooking and the cleaning, Ryan has things that he does that I had to cover. They are all things that I have done, or used to do, but in the rhythm of life, Ryan has picked them up. Like, feed the cat. I forgot. Oscar let me know, but I don't know how long he was without food. He was probably out of food for like 3 minutes, cause he is needy like that, but still. Oops. I had to clean the litter box. I had to take the trash out. I had to pay some bills. I had to take out the diaper pail. I had to change every.single.diaper. I gave all the baths. Jack was none to please with me during bath time. Ryan gives the baths. He always has. It was one thing that he could always do, especially when I nursed, so I did all the feedings for a long time. Apparently, there is an order to bath time. I messed that order up. Jack was not happy with me. He looked at my like, "Lady. This is not how we do it. We say bye-bye to the toys first. Duh. Don't you know anything?" I guess I don;t.
So, the world will be back in order tomorrow. We will all be complete, back together again.
I tried to fill our days with activities and friends while Ryan was gone. Jack stayed busy with lots of play dates and mom stayed busy at night with lots of movies.
We spent our Saturday with my childhood best friend. It is such a blessing to have her within an hour's drive. Who would have guessed that two home schooled girls who used to dream of their first kiss, first boyfriend and being married by 18 ( come on, we were kids. That sounded so old to us) would be 17 hours away from our home, yet an hour from each other. We both are married to wonderful men and we both have kids. Faith has 2 beautiful boys, 5 and 3 and the new little lady Lily who is almost 5 months old. Jack fills in that missing 1 1/2 year gap of ages. At dinner, Reuben, the five year old, asked Jack if they could be friends, because he really wanted to be friends with Jack. Jack very seriously answered "Yes". Faith and I were so touched. Our little boys would be friends, how we were friends.
While Jack and I hung out with friends, Ryan has been impacted by the people of Peru. He has met former presidents, spoke at prestigious universities, met with wealthy business men and the chambers of commerce. He saw the richest part of Lima. He also spoke at one of the poor universities, next to the countless shanty towns where the poor come to the city to make a living and end up in a shanty, even more poor. He saw both worlds of Peru and was greatly impacted by both. I am so excited to hear all that stories of what happened. Ryan feels like God strategically placed him there for the week and I am excited to see what doors will open.
While I do most of the cooking and the cleaning, Ryan has things that he does that I had to cover. They are all things that I have done, or used to do, but in the rhythm of life, Ryan has picked them up. Like, feed the cat. I forgot. Oscar let me know, but I don't know how long he was without food. He was probably out of food for like 3 minutes, cause he is needy like that, but still. Oops. I had to clean the litter box. I had to take the trash out. I had to pay some bills. I had to take out the diaper pail. I had to change every.single.diaper. I gave all the baths. Jack was none to please with me during bath time. Ryan gives the baths. He always has. It was one thing that he could always do, especially when I nursed, so I did all the feedings for a long time. Apparently, there is an order to bath time. I messed that order up. Jack was not happy with me. He looked at my like, "Lady. This is not how we do it. We say bye-bye to the toys first. Duh. Don't you know anything?" I guess I don;t.
So, the world will be back in order tomorrow. We will all be complete, back together again.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
I did it...
I joined Weight Watchers. I have some friends who swear by it and love it. I have been unsuccessful at losing weight on my own. I am tired of looking the same way I did 6 months post pardum. So, I did it. I joined. I figured I would give this thing a shot.
Weight Watchers is basically based off of a points system. Every food has some point value and you need to eat a certain amount per day, with an extra 35 for whatever you want for the full week. I like that is does not cut out any food, you just have to decide if you are willing to use that much of your points for it. So, how well you do is completely up to you.
So far, I like it. I have read millions of times over that you should write down everything that you eat. Well, WW forces me to. I figure out what the points are and go from there. I was surprised at how much I snacked with out realizing it. Now that I watch everything that goes into my mouth, it forces me to think about it, instead of just eating out of habit. I have been hungry off and on, but that is more of me needing to figure out how many points to use than anything. I have not felt deprived at all. I have had Thai food and other sweets, but just smaller portions and fewer calories.
I joined last Monday, so I am 8 days into this new little "lifestyle" thing.
My friends swear that is works. One of my good friends, who just had her second baby, is doing it right along with me. She has been on it before and lost over 60lbs and kept it off till babies decided to come! She told me it works...
and in a week I lost 4.4lbs!
That is more than I lost in a whole month!
Remember this trip? Well, that swimsuit may not be my worst enemy just yet. We may even be on friendlier terms.
Weight Watchers is basically based off of a points system. Every food has some point value and you need to eat a certain amount per day, with an extra 35 for whatever you want for the full week. I like that is does not cut out any food, you just have to decide if you are willing to use that much of your points for it. So, how well you do is completely up to you.
So far, I like it. I have read millions of times over that you should write down everything that you eat. Well, WW forces me to. I figure out what the points are and go from there. I was surprised at how much I snacked with out realizing it. Now that I watch everything that goes into my mouth, it forces me to think about it, instead of just eating out of habit. I have been hungry off and on, but that is more of me needing to figure out how many points to use than anything. I have not felt deprived at all. I have had Thai food and other sweets, but just smaller portions and fewer calories.
I joined last Monday, so I am 8 days into this new little "lifestyle" thing.
My friends swear that is works. One of my good friends, who just had her second baby, is doing it right along with me. She has been on it before and lost over 60lbs and kept it off till babies decided to come! She told me it works...
and in a week I lost 4.4lbs!
That is more than I lost in a whole month!
Remember this trip? Well, that swimsuit may not be my worst enemy just yet. We may even be on friendlier terms.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
The long and short of it...
Hair. That is the questions. To cut or not to cut. I have an appointment with the super talented Ms. Noelle on the 6th and I am in a quandary. To cut or not to cut.
Right now I have long hair. It is about the bra line with layers. When I decide to actually do it, I like it. I wanted the long, wavy supermodel hair. When freshly cut, I can do it, especially if I take the time to blow it out with a round brush. The reality? I wear it pulled back in a low bun 80% of the time.
If I were to cut it, I think I would want a brushing my shoulder length, with a slight angle. I could still pull it back. ( a must, especially with a 16 month old) I have had my hair short in the past and liked it. The last time it was cut short, I was not such a big fan, but that was more because of the actual cut. That Noelle can work miracles, so I am not too worried on that one.
So, what should it be? Long, layered waves with lots of functionality, or a short chic shoulder bob, something fresh and new....
I can't decide.
Help me decide.
Vote in the poll to the right.
Right now I have long hair. It is about the bra line with layers. When I decide to actually do it, I like it. I wanted the long, wavy supermodel hair. When freshly cut, I can do it, especially if I take the time to blow it out with a round brush. The reality? I wear it pulled back in a low bun 80% of the time.
If I were to cut it, I think I would want a brushing my shoulder length, with a slight angle. I could still pull it back. ( a must, especially with a 16 month old) I have had my hair short in the past and liked it. The last time it was cut short, I was not such a big fan, but that was more because of the actual cut. That Noelle can work miracles, so I am not too worried on that one.
So, what should it be? Long, layered waves with lots of functionality, or a short chic shoulder bob, something fresh and new....
I can't decide.
Help me decide.
Vote in the poll to the right.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Oh. My. Maxx.
Sometimes you go shopping and you find nothing. Sometimes you go shopping and you want everything. Sometimes you go shopping and find amazing deals meant just for you. Or sometimes you can be heading to a T.J Maxx for a return and come away with the greatest deals of your entire life. ever.
That is what happened to me on Saturday. The T.J. Maxx/HomeGoods by the oceanfront is one of the best Maxxs around, they have a HUGE home selection and a large designer section. The prices in their designer selection are still around $100, but the labels are to die for. Prada, Chloe, Valentino, Rock and Republic, ect... Fun to look at, but still pricey. So, i headed down to the clearance area in the regular section to browse.
Dear lord. I found some hidden jems. Designer jems. For 95% off. I walked away with a Vera Wang shirt for $10, an Alice + Olivia shirt for $10, BCBG MaxAzaria tunic dress for $7 and a funky sequin picoli cocktail dress for $20. I died of pure happiness. I loved every single piece and not only till i tried it on did i realize it was designer. I died.
This has never happened before. I never thought i would own Vera. I pretty much never want to shop again because how can you beat that? Well, i am sure i will shop again sometime....
That is what happened to me on Saturday. The T.J. Maxx/HomeGoods by the oceanfront is one of the best Maxxs around, they have a HUGE home selection and a large designer section. The prices in their designer selection are still around $100, but the labels are to die for. Prada, Chloe, Valentino, Rock and Republic, ect... Fun to look at, but still pricey. So, i headed down to the clearance area in the regular section to browse.
Dear lord. I found some hidden jems. Designer jems. For 95% off. I walked away with a Vera Wang shirt for $10, an Alice + Olivia shirt for $10, BCBG MaxAzaria tunic dress for $7 and a funky sequin picoli cocktail dress for $20. I died of pure happiness. I loved every single piece and not only till i tried it on did i realize it was designer. I died.
This has never happened before. I never thought i would own Vera. I pretty much never want to shop again because how can you beat that? Well, i am sure i will shop again sometime....
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Moon over... Newaygo?
November 3rd brought election day and allowed us the freedom to decide who are leaders will be.
I am proud to be a Virginian, who elected Bob McDonnell for governor.
But farther north, there was another election that peaked my interest. My father-in-law was running for Mayor of Newaygo, MI. Newaygo is a small little town that is tucked in the woods and sits along the Muskegon river in Western Michigan. It is a beautiful little picturesque town. My husband was raised in the this town and everyone knows everyone.
Most of those "everyone" voted. They voted for Ed. He won with a resounding 65% of the vote and one of the highest turn outs! Congrats, Mr. Mayor!
They were having their celebration party at the local coffee shop, which had shut down early. Low and behold, some one was not happy that Ed was the mayor. Not happy at all.
So what is the logical thing to do to show your displeasure? Why moon your opponent of course!
Wait. WHAT?! Do you mean like naked butt pressed upon the glass door moon? Yep. I mean a full naked butt mooning. Really?! Really? Really.
Way to keep it classy Newaygo. Way to keep it classy.
I am proud to be a Virginian, who elected Bob McDonnell for governor.
But farther north, there was another election that peaked my interest. My father-in-law was running for Mayor of Newaygo, MI. Newaygo is a small little town that is tucked in the woods and sits along the Muskegon river in Western Michigan. It is a beautiful little picturesque town. My husband was raised in the this town and everyone knows everyone.
Most of those "everyone" voted. They voted for Ed. He won with a resounding 65% of the vote and one of the highest turn outs! Congrats, Mr. Mayor!
They were having their celebration party at the local coffee shop, which had shut down early. Low and behold, some one was not happy that Ed was the mayor. Not happy at all.
So what is the logical thing to do to show your displeasure? Why moon your opponent of course!
Wait. WHAT?! Do you mean like naked butt pressed upon the glass door moon? Yep. I mean a full naked butt mooning. Really?! Really? Really.
Way to keep it classy Newaygo. Way to keep it classy.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Get out the door...
and VOTE!
Jack suited up and headed out the door, ready to exercise his right to vote.
He cast his ballot for
Bob McDonnell for VA Governor
~and~
Ed Fedell for Newaygo, MI Mayor
Monday, November 2, 2009
Free Shipping!
It is November and that means Christmas shopping has just started to pop into people's minds!
Everyone loves a discount...
SO, here are FREE SHIPPING codes! I stumbled upon these little secrets and had to share, but you better act fast! They are only for today! So get shopping!
I think I will pick up this little jacket from Forever21.com. It will be perfect for holiday get togethers, or just for plain fun.
Free shipping code to Forever21.com is F21FRIENDS.
Hurry up, this one expires on Nov 3rd!
Not a fan of JCrew or Forever21? Want something that a teenage boy would like...or anyone for that matter?
Allposters.com is having FREE SHIPPING on all orders over $14.95 till Nov 3rd. They have tons of great posters and lots more. I am getting a great world map for my office at work.
So happy FREE SHIPPING shopping!
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Oct 31
The end of October is here. What a whirlwind month! It seems like I was gone for most of month!
In the month of October ~
We spent 11 nights away from our own beds.
We went to Williamsburg, Richmond and Nashville, TN.
We had 3 birthday parties, 1 anniversary and lots and lots of cake.
We went to 2 Anthropologie! (My favorite part)
We got to see my parents and my sister.
We went to our first zoo, first pumpkin patch and tonight we are taking Jack to his first annual Holy Ghost Wiener Roast!
Lots and lots of life happened this month as well. I am kinda sad that October has gone by so fast, but I am looking forward to the holidays and visiting our family. We have two more trips before we head to Michigan for Christmas. Ryan is heading to Peru in November (see post below) and I will be taking my first trip sans baby to Nashville the beginning of December. We will see how that goes. Momma has not been away from her boy for even a night.
Today is Halloween. I HATE Halloween. I really really hate it. I hate all the ghosts, skeletons,witches and the glorification of all things evil. I hate seeing spider webs, hanging corpses and cackling witches decorating peoples' houses. I just don't get why it is so cool to make death and evil and all the of things incorporated with it such a huge celebration. I hate Halloween. I hate the way the holiday came about. Look it up. It is not cute and nice.
Before you pity my poor candy less kids, I have no problem with a good ol' harvest celebration with lots of pumpkins, corn, carnival games and candy. Jack will be heading to our church's Holy Ghost Wiener Roast and will have it chance to ride ponys, make smores at a fire, square dance, play carnival games, eat hot dogs and get loads of candy. We get to hang out at a huge horse ranch and run and play. Sounds a whole lot more fun that asking for gross stranger's candy.
In the month of October ~
We spent 11 nights away from our own beds.
We went to Williamsburg, Richmond and Nashville, TN.
We had 3 birthday parties, 1 anniversary and lots and lots of cake.
We went to 2 Anthropologie! (My favorite part)
We got to see my parents and my sister.
We went to our first zoo, first pumpkin patch and tonight we are taking Jack to his first annual Holy Ghost Wiener Roast!
Lots and lots of life happened this month as well. I am kinda sad that October has gone by so fast, but I am looking forward to the holidays and visiting our family. We have two more trips before we head to Michigan for Christmas. Ryan is heading to Peru in November (see post below) and I will be taking my first trip sans baby to Nashville the beginning of December. We will see how that goes. Momma has not been away from her boy for even a night.
Today is Halloween. I HATE Halloween. I really really hate it. I hate all the ghosts, skeletons,witches and the glorification of all things evil. I hate seeing spider webs, hanging corpses and cackling witches decorating peoples' houses. I just don't get why it is so cool to make death and evil and all the of things incorporated with it such a huge celebration. I hate Halloween. I hate the way the holiday came about. Look it up. It is not cute and nice.
Before you pity my poor candy less kids, I have no problem with a good ol' harvest celebration with lots of pumpkins, corn, carnival games and candy. Jack will be heading to our church's Holy Ghost Wiener Roast and will have it chance to ride ponys, make smores at a fire, square dance, play carnival games, eat hot dogs and get loads of candy. We get to hang out at a huge horse ranch and run and play. Sounds a whole lot more fun that asking for gross stranger's candy.
Wednesday, October 28, 2009
Peru
Lima, PeruThere are times in your life when you just have to brag about the ones you love. Sometimes you just HAVE to let people know how proud you are of them, and so I am going to unabashedly brag on the love of my life!
Ryan is heading to Lima, Peru in November. He was asked to attend and speak at the Global Entrepreneurship Week conference in Lima, Peru. He will be representing Regent University, where Ryan is getting his MBA in Global Entrepreneurship. Ryan was the only student invited and he was selected not only for his high academics ( my boy rocks a 3.5ish gpa) but for his entrepreneur mentality and experience. So, Ryan and the program director of the MBA and the director of International Leadership are taking off to Lima.
The one requirement is that Ryan helps present American Entrepreneurship and Business to 500 plus students at the San Marcos University. He will be speaking with students about entrepreneurship and how the create careers and be inventive. He will also be speaking at other colleges as well as the Lima Chambers of Commerce to talk about what it means to do business with Americans. Ryan is pumped. He loves that stuff. He is not even nervous. I would be. He is not.
I am so proud of him. Ryan was student of the year at North Central University and now he is the only MBA student that was asked to come and speak to college students all over Lima. Business really is Ryan's passion. He understands it and wants to help people understand it as well. My love is only 25 years old, but has the respect of all his professors, as well as his co- workers. We have been blessed, but not because Ryan is a business genius (which he kinda is...) but because he values people and wants to be used by the Lord first and foremost. I am excited to see what doors God will open for Ryan when he is in Peru, as well as when he graduates this December. God has been so good to us.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Jack's Birthday Present
I turned 28 on Sunday, the 18th. Jack decided that he was going to give his mommy his own special gift. He decided that he was going to wean himself. Cold turkey. That day.
I spent the last 15 1/2 months nursing my little boy. He gave me quite the run around those first few weeks. He lost over a pound in those first few days and could not suck properly. So, after attempting to nurse for 20 mins, than supplement feeding him with a syringe and than pumping and than repeating it 2 hours later... i was desperate to be done breastfeeding. After a few visits to a lactation specialist, i was able to nurse him with a shield on. It still took a good hour to feed him from both sides. The Olympics were on during this time and i spent hours watching them while i nursed. Jack's head had to be held a certain way and the shield had to be adjusted, so both hands were busy, forcing me to just sit there. Every night i would want to quit and every morning, i would try it just one more day... 5 weeks into his little life we flew to MI for my sister's wedding. My shield was misplaced and my hungry little man had to fend for himself. It was a little godsend. He nursed like a champ and went on strong for the next year...
Till he just decided he was done. On my birthday. I have mixed feelings about that. It had been slowing down and more for comfort than for nutrients for awhile. However, i will miss my little cuddle time with my boy. It is just one more stage that he has grown out of. My sweet little baby boy is growing up...
I spent the last 15 1/2 months nursing my little boy. He gave me quite the run around those first few weeks. He lost over a pound in those first few days and could not suck properly. So, after attempting to nurse for 20 mins, than supplement feeding him with a syringe and than pumping and than repeating it 2 hours later... i was desperate to be done breastfeeding. After a few visits to a lactation specialist, i was able to nurse him with a shield on. It still took a good hour to feed him from both sides. The Olympics were on during this time and i spent hours watching them while i nursed. Jack's head had to be held a certain way and the shield had to be adjusted, so both hands were busy, forcing me to just sit there. Every night i would want to quit and every morning, i would try it just one more day... 5 weeks into his little life we flew to MI for my sister's wedding. My shield was misplaced and my hungry little man had to fend for himself. It was a little godsend. He nursed like a champ and went on strong for the next year...
Till he just decided he was done. On my birthday. I have mixed feelings about that. It had been slowing down and more for comfort than for nutrients for awhile. However, i will miss my little cuddle time with my boy. It is just one more stage that he has grown out of. My sweet little baby boy is growing up...
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
3 years
I have been married for 3 years today.
I love my husband more now than i did when i married him.
I am sitting in a hotel in Nashville, waiting for my whining child to FINALLY go to sleep. He won't sleep in hotels. He refuses to go to bed and than will be up multiple times a night.
I am exhausted.
My husband is in Virginia with Oscar the cat.
My husband sent flowers to the studio today.
I almost cried.
Ryan spent our anniversary at work and at class.
I spent our anniversary working in the studio with Brit Nicole and Everlife. Both are quality girls with great music. You should look them up.
I miss my husband.
I am eating a peanut butter cup cupcake from Gigi's Cupcakes. It is glorious.Magnificent. Astounding. If you are ever in Nashville, get a cupcake from Gigi's. It will make any day better and make celebrating alone tolerable. The peanut butter buttercream frosting will kill you, and you will die very, very happy.
I wish that Ryan was here eating a cupcake with me.
Happy 3 years, babe. Can't wait to see what is in store for us next!
I love my husband more now than i did when i married him.
I am sitting in a hotel in Nashville, waiting for my whining child to FINALLY go to sleep. He won't sleep in hotels. He refuses to go to bed and than will be up multiple times a night.
I am exhausted.
My husband is in Virginia with Oscar the cat.
My husband sent flowers to the studio today.
I almost cried.
Ryan spent our anniversary at work and at class.
I spent our anniversary working in the studio with Brit Nicole and Everlife. Both are quality girls with great music. You should look them up.
I miss my husband.
I am eating a peanut butter cup cupcake from Gigi's Cupcakes. It is glorious.Magnificent. Astounding. If you are ever in Nashville, get a cupcake from Gigi's. It will make any day better and make celebrating alone tolerable. The peanut butter buttercream frosting will kill you, and you will die very, very happy.
I wish that Ryan was here eating a cupcake with me.
Happy 3 years, babe. Can't wait to see what is in store for us next!
Thursday, October 1, 2009
October!
Let's kick off the beginning of October, one of my most favorite months with a yummy recipe.
This cupcakes are SUPER easy to make and really good. It is the perfect fall treat and the best way to welcome October!
Pumpkin Cupcakes with Cream Cheese Frosting from Real Simple.
1 18.5 oz Yellow Cake mix (plus ingredients on the package)
1/2 teaspoon of pumpkin pie spice
1 15oz can of pumpkin puree
2 8oz bars of cream cheese at room temp
2 cups of confectioners' sugar
candy corn for decorations optional
(I opted out of the candy corn because left on too long it runs into the frosting, and i liked my piping better)
Heat oven to 350 degrees. Line to 12 muffin tins with paper liners. Prepare the cake mix as directed but with the following change. Add the pumpkin pie spice and the pumpkin puree for the water that is called for on the package.
Divide the batter among the prepared muffin tins and bake till a toothpick comes clean. 18 to 22 min. (I baked mine for 15 min, but i have a hot oven)
Beat the cream cheese and sugar until creamy and spread on cooled cupcakes. I added cinnamon to my frosting to add a bit of color and flavor.
I piped my frosting because it looks more fun! Fun trick~ take a plastic lunch bag, fill the corner of the bag with the frosting, cut the edge off and squeeze! Super easy and looks fancy schmancy.
That is it! Super easy, super moist and delicious.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Character and God's Will
I have been thinking a lot about character and integrity lately. What is it and what does it mean? Back in July, my husband was sifting through his grandfather’s worn, used bible. His grandfather was a man of prayer and used his Bible daily. He had hand written notes about different verses all throughout. Grandpa Jack was one of the most humble men that I have known and he was highly respected and lived a life filled with honor and integrity. He would never ever tell anyone that and if he heard you say that about him he would staunchly disagree with embarrassment. He did not live his life to be filled with praise of his good works from others; he just lived his life and let his actions speak for themselves.
Well, Ryan stumbled upon something that has just stuck with me and made me think about it constantly. Jack wrote, “Your character determines your interpretation of God’s will.” Hmmm. That made me think. Your character, who you are and what you do, determines your interpretation of God’s will. I can’t stop thinking about that quote. God’s will is something that everyone wants, yet is something that can seem to be elusive. Selfish desires can so easily come into focus. We are human. We sin. We make mistakes all the time. How can we know that we are truly in God’s will?
I began to think about what good character means. Is your character defined by what you say or is it defined by what you do. Do your words and your actions line up? The one true definition that I could find came in Proverbs 31. It is an epilogue of the wife of noble character. It is something that I have heard many, many times and am equally challenged each time. Since become a wife and a mother, that challenge has increased.
It starts in the 10th verse. A wife of noble character is worth more than rubies. She brings good to her family, not harm. She works with her hands, providing for not only her family but also the poor. She makes wise business dealings and plans ahead for her household. She is clothed with strength and dignity. Her children call her blessed. It ends with a caution. Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a women who fears the Lord is to be praised.
It is easy to be charming. It is not easy to get up, provide for your husband and children and do it in such a way that they would rise and call you blessed. It is not easy to maintain a noble character. It is a lot of work. It goes way beyond saying the right thing, it is actually doing it.
So, how does your character determine your interpretation of God’s will? Psalms 29:5 says, “He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.”
I am challenged to live my life by my actions and not by what I am saying, but by what I am doing.
So how do I know that my actions are what God wants and not what I want? It is so easy to miss the mark. Matthew 7 talks about a tree and it’s fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. It talks about being known by your fruit, or by your actions. If what you are doing produces good fruit, than that is a good indication that you are doing what God wants for you to do.
I am so challenged by that. Are my actions lined up with my words? Do my decisions produce good fruit? If who I am, what I say and what I do determines my interpretation of God’s will, than I will strive to live my life as proverbs 31. I want to be a wife and mother of noble character. I do not want my own desires to determine what God’s will for my life will be.
Well, Ryan stumbled upon something that has just stuck with me and made me think about it constantly. Jack wrote, “Your character determines your interpretation of God’s will.” Hmmm. That made me think. Your character, who you are and what you do, determines your interpretation of God’s will. I can’t stop thinking about that quote. God’s will is something that everyone wants, yet is something that can seem to be elusive. Selfish desires can so easily come into focus. We are human. We sin. We make mistakes all the time. How can we know that we are truly in God’s will?
I began to think about what good character means. Is your character defined by what you say or is it defined by what you do. Do your words and your actions line up? The one true definition that I could find came in Proverbs 31. It is an epilogue of the wife of noble character. It is something that I have heard many, many times and am equally challenged each time. Since become a wife and a mother, that challenge has increased.
It starts in the 10th verse. A wife of noble character is worth more than rubies. She brings good to her family, not harm. She works with her hands, providing for not only her family but also the poor. She makes wise business dealings and plans ahead for her household. She is clothed with strength and dignity. Her children call her blessed. It ends with a caution. Charm is deceptive and beauty is fleeting, but a women who fears the Lord is to be praised.
It is easy to be charming. It is not easy to get up, provide for your husband and children and do it in such a way that they would rise and call you blessed. It is not easy to maintain a noble character. It is a lot of work. It goes way beyond saying the right thing, it is actually doing it.
So, how does your character determine your interpretation of God’s will? Psalms 29:5 says, “He guides the humble in what is right and teaches them his way.”
I am challenged to live my life by my actions and not by what I am saying, but by what I am doing.
So how do I know that my actions are what God wants and not what I want? It is so easy to miss the mark. Matthew 7 talks about a tree and it’s fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. It talks about being known by your fruit, or by your actions. If what you are doing produces good fruit, than that is a good indication that you are doing what God wants for you to do.
I am so challenged by that. Are my actions lined up with my words? Do my decisions produce good fruit? If who I am, what I say and what I do determines my interpretation of God’s will, than I will strive to live my life as proverbs 31. I want to be a wife and mother of noble character. I do not want my own desires to determine what God’s will for my life will be.
Cancun!
We are officially heading to Cancun this coming January! My wonderful, hard working hubby hit a contest at work and we will be heading to Cancun, all expenses paid for a 5 day vacation. It will be with all the other aerotek contest winners, but it is still an all- expense paid vacation for us!
That now instates the "Lose weight and look good in a swimsuit by January" plan for me. That means LOTS of work for me...during the holidays....ehhh. My motivation. Our friends. The only couple i know who are going are wonderful, fun people. They also hit the gym 6 days a week. Hard. The Mrs. is in killer shape, like she does body competitions for fun,shape. Yikes. Jogging stroller, we will become fast friends....
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Lifesaver
Attention all mothers and mothers to be!!!!
The link below has become my lifesaver. I don't really let Jack watch T.V yet, but my old boss and good friend, Greg Flick produced this children's video. They gave it to us for Jack's birthday and his wife, a mother of 5 wonderful kids (3 of which make their debut in the video), swore by it. It was the only video that her 16 month liked. He loved it and would actually sit still and watch it. I was curious.
I put it in and instant love from Jack. He was mesmerized by the animals and the music. I loved that it was well done and had scripture incorporated through it all.
Jack has bad mornings sometimes. He is not happy. He does not want to play, he only wants to sit on my lap and even than he is not content. A bad night sleep produces a clingy, whiny baby. I pop in Noah's Ark and bam... he is content and happy. He will cuddle with me (miracle! That alone is worth the video) and watch it. He gets so excited to watch the animals and tries to mimic their noises. Cute. All bad moods are banished with Noah's Ark is on.
I am not a big advocate of baby television watching. They have plenty of time in their life for that. However, i really recommend this video. It is a great christian kids video, only 30 mins and cut up into little sections, so that they can watch their favorite animal and play when they are no longer interested. I like the classical music. I like the live animal footage. I LOVE the scriptures incorporated through it all.
So, buy it for your friends, neighbors and kids. I promise you won't be disappointed!
The link below has become my lifesaver. I don't really let Jack watch T.V yet, but my old boss and good friend, Greg Flick produced this children's video. They gave it to us for Jack's birthday and his wife, a mother of 5 wonderful kids (3 of which make their debut in the video), swore by it. It was the only video that her 16 month liked. He loved it and would actually sit still and watch it. I was curious.
I put it in and instant love from Jack. He was mesmerized by the animals and the music. I loved that it was well done and had scripture incorporated through it all.
Jack has bad mornings sometimes. He is not happy. He does not want to play, he only wants to sit on my lap and even than he is not content. A bad night sleep produces a clingy, whiny baby. I pop in Noah's Ark and bam... he is content and happy. He will cuddle with me (miracle! That alone is worth the video) and watch it. He gets so excited to watch the animals and tries to mimic their noises. Cute. All bad moods are banished with Noah's Ark is on.
I am not a big advocate of baby television watching. They have plenty of time in their life for that. However, i really recommend this video. It is a great christian kids video, only 30 mins and cut up into little sections, so that they can watch their favorite animal and play when they are no longer interested. I like the classical music. I like the live animal footage. I LOVE the scriptures incorporated through it all.
So, buy it for your friends, neighbors and kids. I promise you won't be disappointed!
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
Labor Day Weekend in NYC
We came.
We saw.
We ate.
That was pretty much our weekend in New York. We arrived after a good 7 1/2 hour drive to stay at our good friends house in Brooklyn. I love coming into NYC on the 278. You start crossing a few bridges and emerge into buildings and industrial sites instead of a highway. You make a turn and bam! there it is. The complete Manhattan skyline, with lady liberty off to the left. It always blows me away. I feel like it should be gradual... like o.k, we are almost there, get ready, set.... city! But nope, one turn and it pretty much just smacks you in the face. I love it!
We saw a few new things, like walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and explored SoHo. We also spent some time playing with the kids in Central Park. I love that. The city is so busy and crazy, but the second you walk into Central Park it stops. It is chill. People are still everywhere, but they are just chilling. Jack and Sophia, my friend's little girl, ran and played and had a complete blast. It was so sweet to watch them play and watch them interact with anyone around them, no matter how they looked, dressed or what language they spoke. I love that.
We ate. A lot. So much. Jack decided not to sleep in New York, which is not so fun. He woke up at 6am, tired, crabby and fussy, yet refused to sleep. So, we walked with him while the rest of the house slept. Where do you go at 7am in Brooklyn? Why Bergen Bagels of course. They have the best bagels ever. I do not know why, but they do. Their everything bagel is what manna would taste like if it were an everything bagel. We ate one every single morning.
I was able to go into SoHo with Jackie for a girls night out with out babies and have some amazing sushi at this little place called Slurp. It was so good. Than we went to Sugar for dessert. Do i need to explain anymore? I absolutely love love SoHo.
The rest of the trip included new york style pizza (an obvious must), hot dogs and Mr. Softees from the vendor, an amazing Italian dinner with Salmon Ravioli that was outstanding and so forth. My favorite stop was Crumbs, this amazing bakery that are known for their cupcakes. I about died. Ryan and i decided to get two and split them. After much considering, we got a Reeses' cupcake (Chocolate with peanut butter frosting inside and out) and an Orange Dreamsicle (Vanilla cake with orange cream frosting inside and out). They were both amazing, but the Dreamsicle was everyone's favorite. This type eating put me in a food comma and i will not be eating anything but salad for the next month straight. But it was ALL worth it :)
I love the city and exploring it. If i was just married with out any kids, i would live there. We are so thankful that we have such great friends that allow us to stay with them and take us around. I wish we lived closer. I miss my friends, i miss our babies toddling around after each other. I wish we could do it more often.
After a LONG traffic-filled 9 1/2 hour ride home, we all collapsed. New York is the city that never sleeps, and we certainly did not get much sleep. But give me some sleep and some time to recover, and i would do it again soon!
p.s... went to the anthropolgie in the heart of SoHo. Paparazzi were waiting for someone famous on the street corner, brownstones lined the side streets and oh, the fashion the people wore around there. Love. Tried on a brilliant little black sweater that has replaced all other stalking items. In the words of Rachel Zoe, i die. Really, it was that good. I die. Mischievous plans of birthday/anniversary and per diem money are forming for this little number. Shopping in SoHo? I die.
We saw.
We ate.
That was pretty much our weekend in New York. We arrived after a good 7 1/2 hour drive to stay at our good friends house in Brooklyn. I love coming into NYC on the 278. You start crossing a few bridges and emerge into buildings and industrial sites instead of a highway. You make a turn and bam! there it is. The complete Manhattan skyline, with lady liberty off to the left. It always blows me away. I feel like it should be gradual... like o.k, we are almost there, get ready, set.... city! But nope, one turn and it pretty much just smacks you in the face. I love it!
We saw a few new things, like walk across the Brooklyn Bridge and explored SoHo. We also spent some time playing with the kids in Central Park. I love that. The city is so busy and crazy, but the second you walk into Central Park it stops. It is chill. People are still everywhere, but they are just chilling. Jack and Sophia, my friend's little girl, ran and played and had a complete blast. It was so sweet to watch them play and watch them interact with anyone around them, no matter how they looked, dressed or what language they spoke. I love that.
We ate. A lot. So much. Jack decided not to sleep in New York, which is not so fun. He woke up at 6am, tired, crabby and fussy, yet refused to sleep. So, we walked with him while the rest of the house slept. Where do you go at 7am in Brooklyn? Why Bergen Bagels of course. They have the best bagels ever. I do not know why, but they do. Their everything bagel is what manna would taste like if it were an everything bagel. We ate one every single morning.
I was able to go into SoHo with Jackie for a girls night out with out babies and have some amazing sushi at this little place called Slurp. It was so good. Than we went to Sugar for dessert. Do i need to explain anymore? I absolutely love love SoHo.
The rest of the trip included new york style pizza (an obvious must), hot dogs and Mr. Softees from the vendor, an amazing Italian dinner with Salmon Ravioli that was outstanding and so forth. My favorite stop was Crumbs, this amazing bakery that are known for their cupcakes. I about died. Ryan and i decided to get two and split them. After much considering, we got a Reeses' cupcake (Chocolate with peanut butter frosting inside and out) and an Orange Dreamsicle (Vanilla cake with orange cream frosting inside and out). They were both amazing, but the Dreamsicle was everyone's favorite. This type eating put me in a food comma and i will not be eating anything but salad for the next month straight. But it was ALL worth it :)
I love the city and exploring it. If i was just married with out any kids, i would live there. We are so thankful that we have such great friends that allow us to stay with them and take us around. I wish we lived closer. I miss my friends, i miss our babies toddling around after each other. I wish we could do it more often.
After a LONG traffic-filled 9 1/2 hour ride home, we all collapsed. New York is the city that never sleeps, and we certainly did not get much sleep. But give me some sleep and some time to recover, and i would do it again soon!
p.s... went to the anthropolgie in the heart of SoHo. Paparazzi were waiting for someone famous on the street corner, brownstones lined the side streets and oh, the fashion the people wore around there. Love. Tried on a brilliant little black sweater that has replaced all other stalking items. In the words of Rachel Zoe, i die. Really, it was that good. I die. Mischievous plans of birthday/anniversary and per diem money are forming for this little number. Shopping in SoHo? I die.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Good News, Bad News
Good News:
I am leaving to spend the long weekend in NYC with my good friend. That means loads of bagels, shopping, laughing and chasing 2 babies around.
Bad News:
I can't leave till i get antibiodics for a nasty UTI :( I want to feel better and get on the road!
I am leaving to spend the long weekend in NYC with my good friend. That means loads of bagels, shopping, laughing and chasing 2 babies around.
Bad News:
I can't leave till i get antibiodics for a nasty UTI :( I want to feel better and get on the road!
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Top Ten
I am over summer. I am ready for fall. I am ready for everything that is brings. I am over the heat and ready for some relief soon. September is right around the corner. Let's celebrate with a count down. It is the top ten reasons why i am ready for fall and ready soon.
1. Cooler weather! I am ready to go outside with Jack and take a walk with out dripping with sweat. I am ready to take my jogging stroller for a run without risking overheating and overheating Jack. I love the cool crispness of fall weather. Let's hope that comes before November here in VA.
2. Boots! I love boots and i am ready to pull out my jeans and boots. I love fall clothes with a nice skinny jean, boot and layers. I am done with short and tanks for awhile.
3. Hot Coffee! I love drinking hot coffee on a cool fall day. No more iced coffee for me. Plus i like the fall flavors of pumpkin and spice.
4. Colors! All fall colors, on the trees, on clothes, on anything! I love the earthy tones of fall.
5. My Birthday and Anniversary. Celebrations like those usually mean shopping and shopping in fun places.
6. Footbal! I like it. I like snuggling up on the couch with my hubby and watching football on the weekend. We are a Michigan State and Indianapolis Colts house and i miss watching football on the weekends. This has been a newer development and my husband is quite happy about that. I do like football, honest.
7.Camping! Most people go camping in the summer. Unless you are crazy or drink so much you don't remember, camping during the summer here is nuts. It is hot and it stays hot all night long. So, that means, you camp in the fall. It is still hot during the day, but it cools off enough to get a fire going. I love bonfires.
8. The new season of television! I am done with stupid summer shows and ready for the real ones to start up again.
9. Fall clothes! I know, i mentioned that earlier. But really, I love fall clothes. Dresses,tights, boots, cardigans, vests, sweaters, buttons downs... bring them on!
10. Going outside!!! I realize that in MN and MI that the summer has been cool, but it has been blazing here in VA. You can't go outside unless you are in water of sorts. I want to take walks, play at the park with Jack and just enjoy the outdoors without fighting 90+ heat and humidity. I want to put Jack in his carseat and not pull him out 5 minutes later with a sweat drenched baby. I want to go hiking and biking!Bring on the cool weather and bring on fall!
Monday, August 24, 2009
Bill
We went to the OBX this weekend. It was our first time. It is slightly embarrassing that it is only an hour and a half away and 3 years later we finally made it down there. Hurricane Bill also decided to come along. He was way out in the Atlantic, but he left some nice dangerous waves and rain. It was not the ideal trip, but it felt like we were a million miles away. We ate some AMAZING Carolina BBQ and relaxed. We watched the powerful waves and the storm clouds roll in and watched Jack run all over the hotel room. It was a good first trip and a relaxing mini-vacation. I am already look forward to a nice fall trip to the OBX for some waves, coffee and BBQ!
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Momcessities
There are just some things that make life a little easier, especially as a Mom. These are just a few little necessities that help move along my day!
Ladies, this is it. Dry shampoo spray for $5.95. I have read about this marvel in all my fashion and fitness magazines, but it was always the $30 designer bottle. Well, i found this beauty at Walgreens and gave it a try. It is wonderful. I have long hair, and except from some short times in college, it has always been pretty long. I am an avid wash every other day hair girl. It is healthy and your hair needs it, mine sure does. BUT, the end of day two it is not so nice. Pssst makes it nice. I just spray it on my roots, wait a minute, brush it out and voila! clean looking hair. Baby didn't nap, so you didn't shower? Pssst! Your workout hair is not working anymore? Pssst! Mommyhood makes blowouts privileges and showers hot commodities, but Pssst! makes life just a little bit easier.
Pizza. Who doesn't love it? I do, and i love these little pizzas. They are good. They are 340 calories of yummy goodness, and they are filling. It is the perfect lunch and it takes away that pizza craving with minimal calorie damage. What mom isn't trying to lose a few?
This has been the best workout video i have found yet. It is an intense 20 minute work out. I may not be able to get to the gym during the week, or get in a good hour of cardio, but i can do 20 mins. Those 20 mins are grueling and difficult, but they get results. I have just moved onto level 2 and about died... but it is only 2o mins... so i know i will live. I have already toned up, so here's hoping for some weight loss!!
Ahh, Wet Ones... I always have one in my purse and diaper bag. They are perfect to wipe down shopping carts, high chairs, tables and thrown toys. Sometimes dirty little grubby hands get a wipe. They are portable, antibacterial and wonderful.
Ladies, this is it. Dry shampoo spray for $5.95. I have read about this marvel in all my fashion and fitness magazines, but it was always the $30 designer bottle. Well, i found this beauty at Walgreens and gave it a try. It is wonderful. I have long hair, and except from some short times in college, it has always been pretty long. I am an avid wash every other day hair girl. It is healthy and your hair needs it, mine sure does. BUT, the end of day two it is not so nice. Pssst makes it nice. I just spray it on my roots, wait a minute, brush it out and voila! clean looking hair. Baby didn't nap, so you didn't shower? Pssst! Your workout hair is not working anymore? Pssst! Mommyhood makes blowouts privileges and showers hot commodities, but Pssst! makes life just a little bit easier.
Pizza. Who doesn't love it? I do, and i love these little pizzas. They are good. They are 340 calories of yummy goodness, and they are filling. It is the perfect lunch and it takes away that pizza craving with minimal calorie damage. What mom isn't trying to lose a few?
This has been the best workout video i have found yet. It is an intense 20 minute work out. I may not be able to get to the gym during the week, or get in a good hour of cardio, but i can do 20 mins. Those 20 mins are grueling and difficult, but they get results. I have just moved onto level 2 and about died... but it is only 2o mins... so i know i will live. I have already toned up, so here's hoping for some weight loss!!
Ahh, Wet Ones... I always have one in my purse and diaper bag. They are perfect to wipe down shopping carts, high chairs, tables and thrown toys. Sometimes dirty little grubby hands get a wipe. They are portable, antibacterial and wonderful.
I am a big fan of Earth's Best. We mainly use it for all of Jack's baby food. Jack LOVES these litttle crackers. They are a nice transition from a softer puff/cheerio food but they are not too big. Most importantly, they keep Jack interested while we are out and about, especially at restaurants.
There are lots of other great items that help me out, but these are some of my favorites. What are some of your necessities?
There are lots of other great items that help me out, but these are some of my favorites. What are some of your necessities?
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
Behind
Michelle from A Little Bit Cra[Sieh] posted adorable "behind" shots and wanted others to share. I love shot taken from behind because they are mostly, unaware. Here are a couple of my favorites!
This one is my favorite. He turned around at the exact second i took the picture. He looks like i completely invaded his privacy...which i kinda did :)
This is with his best bud, Sophia. It looks like cute babies playing in their pjs. In reality, they were both pushing each other to have the same toy....
Saturday, August 8, 2009
Stalking
I must confess that i tend to stalk. Stalk clothing items that is. I see an item that i REALLY like, but is out of my price range and i stalk it. I keep an eye on it, waiting for the price to drop and for me to make my move. Sometimes i am too slow and lose the item completely, sometime i jump to fast and find it later at a better price. Most of the time, my husband gets so tired of hearing me talk about it that he just tells me to get it.
Here is my latest stalking obsession.
The Puckered & Pleated Cardigan
Don't you just love it? I do. Now, let's all hope it drops a good $50 dollars or more for me to get it. Or we could all hope and pray the husband gets sick of me talking about it and invests in this sweater for my October birthday. I mean, it is an investment, right?
Wednesday, August 5, 2009
Dis
Dis. I spend most of my day answering the question of "dis". Jack wakes up, points to his animals on the wall and says, "dis?". He gets out of his cribs, points to pictures and says, "dis?" He knows what they are, who they are and what they do. We go over it every single day, multiple times a day. We walk around the house, turning on lights, making breakfast and answering all of the various "dis?". It never gets old. Dis? Everything. The only variance of the day is when he finds a pair of shoes, or "shos". Than it is, "Dis? Shos." and than he points to every pair of shoes he can find and tell me that they are "shos". When Ryan comes home it changes to "Dadeeeeeeeeey, dis?dis? dadeeeeeeeeey." Jack hasn't quite figured out how to use the levels of his voice, so "Daddy" is more of a yelling dadeeeeeeeeeeeey. It is an especially exciting day when Jack notices that his dad has his shoes on still. Than is it " Dadeeeeeeeeeeeeey! Shos! Shos! Dis! Shos!"
I am sure there are many more days to come of answering questions. My little man is so inquisitive and just wants to know everything. His little face is full of question and his sincere "dis?" must be answered.
What do I love?
Dis.
I am sure there are many more days to come of answering questions. My little man is so inquisitive and just wants to know everything. His little face is full of question and his sincere "dis?" must be answered.
What do I love?
Dis.
Wednesday, July 29, 2009
Banana Oatmeal Cookies
These delicious moist cookies are worth sharing. I found this recipe on allrecipes.com when i was trying to get rid of some oatmeal and spoiled bananas. I brought the cookies to our home group and they were a huge hit! These cookies are really easy to make and super, super moist and a bit cake like. They don't last to long in our household!
Banana Oatmeal Cookies
1 1/2 cups of all-purpose flour 3/4 cup of shortening
1 cup of white sugar 1 egg, beaten
1/2 tsp of baking soda 1 cup of mashed ripe bananas (i add more)
1 tsp of salt 1 3/4 cups of rolled oats
1/4 tsp of ground nutmeg 1/2 cup of walnuts(optional)
3/4 tsp of ground cinnamon
~Preheat the oven to 400 degree F.
~ In a large bowl, stir together the flour, sugar, baking soda,salt, nutmeg and cinnamon. Cut in the shortening until almost no lumps remain. Stir in the egg and bananas. Mix well. Finally, stir in the oats and walnuts if using. Drop by the spoonfuls 2 in apart onto an ungreased cookie sheet.
~Bakef for 12-15 mins, or until edges are browned. Remove and cool immediately on a wire rack.
Enjoy!
Thursday, July 23, 2009
Mommyhood
I am have been doing this thing called "Mommy" for a full year now. I would never dare say that i figured it out. I have learned a thing or two, but i know i have LOTS to learn. Each season and age, Jack has new tricks, new ideas and new lessons that he teaches me. Somethings have changed, some remain the same, and his little personality increase at a daily rate. Personality and will that is... Here is some of the good, the bad, and the ugly.
~ Jack is walking! Yep, walking. He toddles around the house like he is big stuff now.
~ Jack likes his accessories. That is right, i said accessories. We have this little plastic links bag half full of links that he carries on his shoulder every.single.day. He puts it on multiple times a day and walks around the house with it. He also likes to place things over his shoulders. We have a few cat toys with a string and mouse hanging at the end. Those go over the shoulder and he walks around. Anything will do though. Monitor and cord, game controls. This habit is not my favorite. I make sure it is never actually wrapped AROUND his neck and he is closely monitored. I have taken this off so many times, yet it never matters. Around the shoulders they go.*
~ My eat anything from a baby food jar and reject all table food baby is now rejecting his baby food and leaving this momma at a loss of what to feed him... What do 1 yr olds eat anyway?
~ At his 12 month appt, he weighed in at a whoppin 18lbs 140z. 5% for weight, 80% for height. The issue? No idea. The kid eats, a LOT! Well, that was till he decided he was too cool for baby food, thus the panic of "Is he eating enough?!"
~ He still nurses 4 times a day. No interest in NOT nursing. I still get up with him around 5am to nurse. Is that normal? Who knows. He will only sleep 8-9 hrs before he eats. There is no 20 min crying for this little guy. He goes on and on and on till he is feed. I promise.
~ He is my little chatterbox these days. His vocabulary has grown from Mama and Daddy, to Osc (the cat), this, that, well more like "dis" and "dat" and shoes. He likes shoes. I have no idea where he got that from ;) He talks all the time, i just have not yet been able to translate it...
~ I have successfully gotten him into a good two nap schedule and been on it for awhile. This is a big deal for my "I never want to sleep" baby. Count your napping blessings if your child never gave you any issues on that. Count them.
~ Jack now cries when i leave him in the nursery. Not too sure if i am o.k. with that. My oh so social child now realizes that i am Mommy and realizes when i leave. That is a good. The crying. Not fun at all. He is now getting a little bit shy with strangers, a little tiny bit.
~ Jack has mastered the sign " All Done". He ignores the rest, but uses "all done" for everything. Done eating? All done. Tired of the carseat? All done. Done with being in the shopping cart with mom? All done? I'm singing a song to him and he is over it? All done.
~ I love love love making Jack laugh. He laughs so hard and it is so cute. It really is a highlight to my entire day. It is priceless.
~ I love little things about Jack. I love how he is so expressive. His little face tells a million stories. I love his little baby belly that sticks out, even when the rest of him is little. I love when i pick him up, he puts his arm around my neck and twirls my hair. I like when he kisses the puppies in his books, but especially love when he kisses me! I love his Eskimo kisses. Let's me honest, i love everything about him!
Mommyhood is a wonderful, challenging thing. A friend asked my husband if having a kid was like getting a second job. Silly single boy. Having a child is like getting a full time, part time and overnight job. But it is the greatest, most rewarding and fulling job i have ever had!
Here is my littel guy walking around with his man-bag and his cat toy...silly baby.
*Jack loves his trucks, cars and balls and is very very boy. His man bag and shoes collection are quite manly as well :)
~ Jack is walking! Yep, walking. He toddles around the house like he is big stuff now.
~ Jack likes his accessories. That is right, i said accessories. We have this little plastic links bag half full of links that he carries on his shoulder every.single.day. He puts it on multiple times a day and walks around the house with it. He also likes to place things over his shoulders. We have a few cat toys with a string and mouse hanging at the end. Those go over the shoulder and he walks around. Anything will do though. Monitor and cord, game controls. This habit is not my favorite. I make sure it is never actually wrapped AROUND his neck and he is closely monitored. I have taken this off so many times, yet it never matters. Around the shoulders they go.*
~ My eat anything from a baby food jar and reject all table food baby is now rejecting his baby food and leaving this momma at a loss of what to feed him... What do 1 yr olds eat anyway?
~ At his 12 month appt, he weighed in at a whoppin 18lbs 140z. 5% for weight, 80% for height. The issue? No idea. The kid eats, a LOT! Well, that was till he decided he was too cool for baby food, thus the panic of "Is he eating enough?!"
~ He still nurses 4 times a day. No interest in NOT nursing. I still get up with him around 5am to nurse. Is that normal? Who knows. He will only sleep 8-9 hrs before he eats. There is no 20 min crying for this little guy. He goes on and on and on till he is feed. I promise.
~ He is my little chatterbox these days. His vocabulary has grown from Mama and Daddy, to Osc (the cat), this, that, well more like "dis" and "dat" and shoes. He likes shoes. I have no idea where he got that from ;) He talks all the time, i just have not yet been able to translate it...
~ I have successfully gotten him into a good two nap schedule and been on it for awhile. This is a big deal for my "I never want to sleep" baby. Count your napping blessings if your child never gave you any issues on that. Count them.
~ Jack now cries when i leave him in the nursery. Not too sure if i am o.k. with that. My oh so social child now realizes that i am Mommy and realizes when i leave. That is a good. The crying. Not fun at all. He is now getting a little bit shy with strangers, a little tiny bit.
~ Jack has mastered the sign " All Done". He ignores the rest, but uses "all done" for everything. Done eating? All done. Tired of the carseat? All done. Done with being in the shopping cart with mom? All done? I'm singing a song to him and he is over it? All done.
~ I love love love making Jack laugh. He laughs so hard and it is so cute. It really is a highlight to my entire day. It is priceless.
~ I love little things about Jack. I love how he is so expressive. His little face tells a million stories. I love his little baby belly that sticks out, even when the rest of him is little. I love when i pick him up, he puts his arm around my neck and twirls my hair. I like when he kisses the puppies in his books, but especially love when he kisses me! I love his Eskimo kisses. Let's me honest, i love everything about him!
Mommyhood is a wonderful, challenging thing. A friend asked my husband if having a kid was like getting a second job. Silly single boy. Having a child is like getting a full time, part time and overnight job. But it is the greatest, most rewarding and fulling job i have ever had!
Here is my littel guy walking around with his man-bag and his cat toy...silly baby.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Recap
The last few weeks have been a whirlwind for the Fedell's. July 4th was a very full day to say the least. We celebrated our baby boy turning 1. We lost his name sake great grandfather. Talk about conflicting emotions! After finishing up a little small party for my new 1 yr old, we immediately got in contact with our loved ones in MI. We booked our tickets home at 11:30pm that night and flew out the next day by 4pm. It normally takes me a week to prepare for a trip home, the flight and everything else one needs to do. We did it in less than 12 hrs. Hectic, but we did it.
Due to flight prices, we flew in on Sunday and left that Saturday. It was a good thing we got in on Sunday, as Ryan helped his mother and grandmother plan the entire funeral on Monday. I was so proud of my husband. He took charge, and took all the worry away from him mom and grandma, who were still only 48 hrs into losing their father/husband. His oldest brother,wife and two kids came, as well as his other brother. It was good to see all of them, since it had been over a year since we last saw them. It is good to be with family in that type of situation.
The funeral was beautiful. It was challenging to me as well. The church was packed out with people from all ages and all times of Jack's life. Everyone talked about how he had dramatically touched their lives. The thing that impacted me so much was what they were talking about. It was not how funny he was (which is true) or how nice he was (also very true) but they talked about the deep character of the man. His attributes were the fruits of the spirit. He was patient, he was kind, he was selfless, he kept no record of wrong, he loved unconditionally. He actually truly listened to people. Not one single person had anything bad to say. One story brought tears to my eyes as well as everyone else's in the room. His former pastor stood up and said how one Sunday night that nothing particularly important was happening, he saw Jack kneeling at the altar with his hands over his ears. After the service, Pastor Jeffrey asked him what he was doing. He said, " Pastor, sometimes you just need to shut everything else out and just listen to the Lord." The thing is, this was not a one time deal. It was a regular occurrence. It was inspiring. It challenged me to live my life like that. To be known for my character and actions and not just my words. I feel so blessed to have been a part of his life and i was so proud of the man he was. I can't wait to see him again one day.
We spent the remainder of the week with family. Grandpa Jack would have been very proud. His great grandchildren spent much of their time playing his old keyboard. Jack loved music. It was a part of him. He was an incredible jazz drummer, but also played the upright and electric bass. His gift for music was passed on to my hubby, and from the looks of it, my son. My little Jack loves music as well. Here is a happy little picture of two of the cutest boys i know!
We came home and promptly slept all of Sunday away. It was much, much, much needed. I will be very happy to stay home for awhile and just be. I feel blessed to have been able to travel so much, but i am ready to enjoy a bit of this summer. Maybe take a break and not travel again till September...maybe.
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Here He Goes!!
Jack has been on the move and is SO proud of his new walking accomplishments! He is almost completely walking!! How did he get so big?!
Sunday, July 5, 2009
In Loving Memory...
Yesterday, while we celebrated the new life of my little man, Jack David Fedell turning one and just barely beginning his life, we also said good bye to the man we named him after. Jack Sturtevant went and met his Lord and Saviour on July 4th, 2009. He had been battling cancer for the last 6 months. He quickly deteriorate in the last 3 weeks. He slipped peacefully away and left with a huge grin on his face.
Friday night, Ryan was playing his guitar and just thinking about his Grandpa. He felt like the Lord told him not to worry, that he would be the first thing his Grandfather saw. We did not know he would leave us the next day. The grin on his face told us everything. He finally got to see his Jesus, who he had faithfully be serving for many years.
We will greatly miss our Grandpa Jack. He was Ryan's support and cheerleader in life. Ryan could always count on his Grandpa to be cheering him on, no matter how many mistake he would make. He was loved by all, and not one person could ever say a bad thing about him. He lead a peaceful, quiet life yet was a dynamic prayer warrior.
Because of Jack Sturtevant, my mother, grandparents and aunt came to know the Lord, as well as Ryan's mom and family. What an amazing spiritual heritage to pass on to our son. Our prayers is that my little Jack will live a life committed to the Lord and to follow in his great grandfather's footsteps. We have yet to see all of Jack's influence and prayers acted out. There is so much more to come.
While we will miss his smile and kind words, we know that we will see him again. There is great comfort in that. He was an amazing, wonderful man and i loved him dearly.
Friday night, Ryan was playing his guitar and just thinking about his Grandpa. He felt like the Lord told him not to worry, that he would be the first thing his Grandfather saw. We did not know he would leave us the next day. The grin on his face told us everything. He finally got to see his Jesus, who he had faithfully be serving for many years.
We will greatly miss our Grandpa Jack. He was Ryan's support and cheerleader in life. Ryan could always count on his Grandpa to be cheering him on, no matter how many mistake he would make. He was loved by all, and not one person could ever say a bad thing about him. He lead a peaceful, quiet life yet was a dynamic prayer warrior.
Because of Jack Sturtevant, my mother, grandparents and aunt came to know the Lord, as well as Ryan's mom and family. What an amazing spiritual heritage to pass on to our son. Our prayers is that my little Jack will live a life committed to the Lord and to follow in his great grandfather's footsteps. We have yet to see all of Jack's influence and prayers acted out. There is so much more to come.
While we will miss his smile and kind words, we know that we will see him again. There is great comfort in that. He was an amazing, wonderful man and i loved him dearly.
Here is Grandpa Jack checking out little Jack's "Sturtevant" toes. He certainly loved his little name sake.
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Happy Birthday!
My sweet baby boy is ONE!! Where did the time go?! It seems like yesterday that i was staring at this little peanut face that was sleeping so sweetly in my arms for the first time. How that cute face has grown. From the first smile, to the first pout, to a mouth full of teething grinning back to me,that little face has been my pride and joy. I am so happy you came into our life, one year ago today and i can't wait to see what an amazing little boy you will become. I love you, my son, always and forever.
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