Sera Beara

Goodbye, Caillou...

2012-02-04T18:55:00.000-08:00

Today was mostly...ugh...major temper tantrums...that's why I'm glad I blogged about things like yesterday...to remind myself that it's not all temper tantrums. Man, is she ever stubborn, though. Don't know where she gets that from. ;) Mom and Dad, thanks for still loving me because I know I was like that...sorry 'bout that. :) But, we ended on a good note...and that helps.

On another only slightly related note, I'm looking for recommendations for shows and movies for Sera. We don't allow her many, but it's a privilege for her and if she disobeys (bigger things, not minor things), then she loses her movie privilege (very motivating for her). Her favorite show is Caillou, but the more I see of it, the less I am impressed. Wow, is that kid ever whiny...and whining and tantrums are what we're trying to curb around here. So, goodbye Caillou! And, hello, Veggie Tales and Thomas...anybody have any other suggestions?

And...also randomly, Bella LOVES curry! She had curried chicken, rice and veggies tonight and she couldn't get enough. Yeah, Bella...you are officially a Williams kid with your love of curry and avocado! :)

And...above is a random cute pic of Sera and Bella from Lance's last business trip that we ended up unexpectedly accompanying him on...

Random Tidbits

2012-02-03T18:50:00.000-08:00

Here are just a few random things that I don't want to forget:

-Bella is scooting around like a little pro now. Although moving has increased her ability to get into things, I don't mind because she can entertain herself for longer periods of time now. I'm also enjoying seeing her and Sera interact and "play" together even more. She thinks Sera is hilarious and Sera loves to take care of her. Occasionally, we have some sharing issues, but it's not that bad (yet, haha). Another positive of her starting to move is that she now has an earlier bedtime and is sleeping SO much better than she was. I also think that moving rooms has contributed positively to her getting better sleep.

-Sera has started to take more of an interest in the alphabet and so I'm seizing the opportunity to try and work on it more with her. I LOVE learning and watching her learn is SO much fun for me. I've got a couple of activities I want to try with her, so I'll try to blog about those if they go well. She hasn't really been interested in it much at all until recently and I've been determined not to be pushy about it (she's still REALLY young, in my opinion)...but I know a lot of kids already know it at her age (so sometimes I worry that I might be doing something wrong).

-We're down to only one diaper a day, most days. She's now napped successfully without a diaper several times and we've even left the house on some brief outings without a diaper. We've really taken our time with this process (we started potty training over the summer), and I'm so glad. It's been good just to wait for her cues and take it slow. I think it suits both of our personalities best. I'm so thankful for my sister who urged me to watch and wait until she's ready for potty training and the milestones within...GREAT advice! :)

-Sera melted my heart this morning with her sweetness. When I gave her an orange, she asked me if I was going to have one. I told her that I had given her the last one, but I didn't mind. She insisted on feeding me a few slices because she told me it might be awhile until I got one. I love that girl to pieces.

-Bella claps now frequently and is learning to wave "hi" and "bye". She's SO cute because she gets so excited and proud of herself when she does it. She seems to have a more serious personality, so I LOVE it when she grins and shows her adorable dimples.

-Also, just tonight she sat still and looked at the book with me while I read her the bedtime story. It's the first time she's done that (usually she just squirms and wiggles until I give up). I almost cried...it was just such a sweet moment.

I love all of the little moments with my munchkins...I want to do a better job of recording them because I know it will go so fast (it already is/has). I feel so privileged to get this time with them and I don't want to take it for granted (which is easy to do when you're tired and overwhelmed).

And, because yesterday I posted a picture of Sera and Lance...here's one of Bella and Lance (from the summer). Oh my goodness, still missing him like crazy...2.5 more days...

Missing Lance...

2012-02-02T19:58:00.000-08:00

Oh yeah, do you want to gag yet? Yup...betcha you do...but I miss this guy...oh, so much...

Kudos

2012-02-01T19:18:00.000-08:00

Today is my second day parenting all by myself ALL DAY (and night)...and OH MY, I'm reminded to pray for single parents and military parents (and others I'm not thinking of) who go it alone either all or a lot of the time. Kudos to y'all, for real! Today went much better than yesterday, but wow, this is a great reminder of all that my husband does and all of the ways that he helps me. The hardest part is bedtime, since we usually divide and conquer. I miss that boy so much...and, even more than I miss his help, I miss just talking to him and having him around. Only 4.5 more days...I can do it...

On a completely not related note, I'm having so much trouble getting Seraphina to bed at a decent hour (even when Lance is home). She's almost three, and she seems to be in this phase of adjusting her sleep. I've tried having her not nap, but then she is a disaster by dinner (even if I put her to bed early)...but when she naps, she doesn't go to bed until midnight. Any tips? I'm just lost as to what to do, but I hate that she's awake that late. Granted, she stays in her room and (for the most part), out of trouble...but I worry that she's not getting enough sleep. (She always seems to look tired.)

On another not related note, we switched the bedrooms around last weekend and now my living room looks like an episode of "Hoarders" and it's driving me batty. We switched bedrooms because we originally were going to have the girls share a room, but for several reasons (including *see above*), that wasn't working out so well. All in all, I'm happy with the change...and I like being in the bigger room...I sleep better not feeling so claustrophobic. But, I'm still amazed at how long it takes to do anything with two little ones under foot (what with them needing naps and limited time to actually organize stuff in their rooms, haha). If I had a basement or something, I'd just put it all down there and deal with it slowly, but, no basement...so...hoarders it is. I'm not really sure why I'm blogging about this...I suppose just so that when it's all done, I can look back and be thankful because it was quite the feat. :)

And...I really need to take some more pictures of my girls, because this is getting B...O...R...I...N...G...if you read this far, kudos to you! :)

Sappy

2012-01-26T17:11:00.000-08:00

It dawned on me today that my precious Arabella Mae is almost 10 months old. And, my adorable, wild Seraphina Marie is a little over a month away from turning three years old. I cried a little. Where has the time gone? I know that they are still so little, but sometimes I wish I could back to the beginning and relive everything. Yes, really. Well, everything except moving with a two month old baby and a two year old toddler. That was awful...but then, that's another post for another day.

Both of my precious little girls are sick today. Of course, when this happens, I don't get much done, as I'm wiping snotty noses, cooling fevered foreheads, and holding little girls as they try to sleep. It can be frustrating to totally change my plan for the day and to feel like I'm not getting anything productive done. However, I love the little moments like this...where I slow down enough to take them in and savor this moment of life that we are in, crazy as it sometimes seems to be.

I want to challenge myself to keep this mindset every day...to cherish the moment we are in...to keep my eyes on what's important and let go of what's not. Kick me in the pants when I forget, will you? ;)

Thankful

2012-01-13T11:55:00.000-08:00

Just a warning, this might be a tad bit barfy, but...

I'm so, so thankful for Lance lately...well, always, but especially lately. The guy is TIRED a lot a lot of the time...he works really long hours. And yet, he comes home and gives to me and our girls. He spends time with each of the girls and plays with them...even when I know it's probably not what he'd prefer to be doing after such a long day. He listens to me, helps me, and encourages me. He gives Sera her bath and puts her to bed so that I can nurse Bella and get her down to bed. He helps me clean when I'm overwhelmed. He shops for groceries. Yeah, he's amazing. I love you, honey...for more than the things you do, but I appreciate so much what you do...because it shows your heart.

Indoor Fun

2012-01-12T11:09:00.000-08:00

We stayed inside today because although it wasn't raining, it had rained overnight which would have made for a cold, wet day at the playground. (I'm okay with my munchkins getting a little wet when it's not cold, but cold + wet = miserable.) So, we...fingerpainted, played with playdoh, bubbles, had a dance party, watched one episode of Caillou and read books. I'm always on the lookout for new ideas to do on rainy days...Emily had a great idea (rainbow rice) that I want to try (I wish I knew how to link, but I don't...if you want to find it, though, it's the Emily and Drew blog on sidebar thingie). What do you do on rainy days?

And, because my blogs lately wouldn't be complete without a random pic that has nothing to do with the post, here's a few of us from the summer on our way to a festival downtown.

Schedule

2012-01-11T12:48:00.000-08:00

I'm always curious what schedules mommas with young children keep, so I thought I'd share mine so that someday I can look back and remember what our days were like. :) Also, so that if anyone had any tips, I'd love to hear them...finding a schedule that works for BOTH girls has been really hard for me...and it's still a work in progress.

Wake Up-Right now I'm just getting up when the girls get up, but I'm trying to get up just a little earlier bit by bit so that I can have some time in the morning alone.
Breakfast and Getting Everyone Ready-Right now my biggest struggles with this are Seraphina fighting me tooth and nail to get ready and that Bella is still spoon fed breakfast she can finger feed, but she's not very interested in the morning...so it can take 1.5-2 hours to get out the door (this includes me getting showered and ready too). I've tried the whole night shower thing, but that wakes me up too much and then I can't fall asleep.
10AM-Go on a walk
10:30/11ish-Play at the playground (I'm hoping to mix this up by going to the State Museum, Whitaker Center, or Bookstore-with kids play area)
*Bella gets her nap in the stroller while we walk*
One thing I need to get better at is having something planned for Seraphina if we are inside due to weather (unless it's raining or in the 20s). She tends to go crazy if too much of her time is unstructured (as in massive meltdown).
NOON-Lunch
1PM-Nap for Seraphina
1:30/2ish-Nap for Arabella
3 or 4-Kiddos wake up (depending on how hard they played that morning...but usually it's 3)
While they are napping, I try to do as much cleaning up as I can fit in. I am SO SO SO thankful to have this time...it's only recently that I got them napping at the same time, and it's been FANTASTIC...it's made a HUGE difference in my state of mind.
Right now when they wake up we just have free play time, but I'd like to use some of this time for preschool activities for Seraphina, as Bella has started to be able to sit up well and play independently.
Dinner is around 5 or 6
7-Bella's bath then Sera's bath (I can't WAIT until they can take a bath together)
7:30/8ish-Bella's Bedtime
Lance usually starts to get Sera down at around 8:30, but it varies...we need to get better about finding a good consistent bedtime for her (our routine is consistent, but the time is not)
While Lance is putting her to bed, I try to clean up and Bella usually wakes up once to nurse before she's asleep for good. I should mention that she also nurses at around 4AM, 7AM, NOON, and 5PM and she eats 3 meals of solids, with one of them starting with finger foods. Seraphina still has about 2 snacks a day, too.

Up until recently, I was trying to do all of my housework type stuff after they had gone down for the night, but since they nap at the same time, I don't need as much time now at night...hence, my goal to get up earlier.

Well, I'm sure this is pretty much a snorebore for anyone else to read, but I just want to look back and remember what it was like because I know it'll all change again before I even know it.

And, just for fun, there's a cute picture that I found from the summer of Bella when she fell asleep during playtime (those days are long gone...hahah).

This and That...

2012-01-04T16:51:00.000-08:00

Speaking of change and growth, check out how much this little munchkin has grown! WOW! Oh my goodness do I love her in this little ducky get up! This was Seraphina's and it's one of my favorites...I ADORE ducks! :) (That's Arabella...just in case that wasn't clear) :)

A random memory from today...Seraphina worked on a craft today (gift from her auntie Krissy) and she kept calling it "crap"...and she loved it so much that all she could talk about all day long was her "crap". I couldn't stop laughing...

Another bit of randomness...Arabella still isn't exactly moving, but I can't tell if she is going to be a crawler or a bum-scooter. When I put her on her tummy she spins in circles and seems like she wants to crawl (sorta)...she can even army crawl backwards (a little), but it makes her SO angry (I think because she doesn't mean to be going backwards). But then, I know she scooted on her bottom once (in her pack and play)...and she loves sitting and seems to scoot a little when she has her "sitting play time". It'll be fun to see...

We've Come A Long Way...

2012-01-03T21:25:00.000-08:00

Since it's the start of a new year, I've been doing a lot of reflecting...well, as much as can be done when you're taking care of two small children who keep changing things up on you as soon as you settle into a nice routine. ;) Generally speaking, I think it's easy for me to think about how far I have to go, rather than being thankful for how far I've come. I hate to admit this, but I am more of a "half empty" gal than I want to be. However, at the start of this new year, I'm trying to keep reminding myself (esp. when I get frustrated and overwhelmed...which is SO much more than I'd care to admit) to look back and see how far we've come. It's remarkable how trying to do that as each day ends puts everything in perspective again for me. Now, in the spirit of seeing how far we've come, here are some pictures of Seraphina from shortly after Bella was born. Good grief, she's grown since then. I remember this particular event (a picnic at the college where I used to work) because she went right up to the speakers and danced for almost the entire time. Girlfriend LOVES to dance! I can't wait to see her and Bella dance together someday.

Happy New Year!

2012-01-01T22:12:00.000-08:00

To ring in the New Year, I thought I'd post a picture of my girlies. Yeah, one of my "resolutions" is to blog more...and this little bloggie needs a lot of updating, but I'm all about taking things one little step at a time and keeping it in perspective, so here's my start. Aren't they cute? :)

A Confession...

2011-10-14T13:25:00.000-07:00

People often ask us if we are done having children or not...some even go so far as to ask if we will be trying for a boy (btw, if you ask me if I plan to try for a boy, I am secretly punching you in the face in my head...I'm just too polite to say what I am really thinking...such a dumb statement implies that our girls aren't good enough or our family isn't complete without a boy...)...and I usually say that we are done having children. Lance and I have always sort of said that we are a 2 child family, but I have to confess that sometimes I want another (and NOT because I secretly hope for a boy, although my reasons might be equally shallow...well, I'm pretty sure they are). So, here's my confession...I dream of holding a newborn in my arms again...of being in a place in our life where we could plan (planning gives me more joy than you can imagine) for them...decorate a cute, but not over the top nursery for them, buy little "my first...insert holiday" outfits for them (I'm too practical and frugal for those and I'm pretty sure the hubs wouldn't be on board spending money for something like that), have professional pictures taken of them (although hubs is a photographer he works so hard that he doesn't really have time to do this) and so on and so on...

I'm laughing at my ridiculous reasons as I type them...and believe me, I don't think those are good reasons to have a child, but I am wondering...anybody else out there ever dream your little silly dreams like me?

By the way, honey, if you read this, don't worry...I'm not really serious...
I can just see his face...another kid...are you NUTS? No honey, I promise...not serious here. :)

*I should add that all kidding and silly dreams aside, I LOVE and am SO grateful for our two and don't for a SECOND take for granted how blessed we are to have them, and that things like nurseries, formal pictures, outfits, etc. don't matter at all.

Happy Dance!

2011-09-30T13:12:00.000-07:00

Today, for the first time EVER, both of my girls napped BY THEMSELVES at the same time. Now, they have slept at the same time before, BUT, and this is HUGE, Bella has never taken a REAL nap BY HERSELF (20-30 min. doesn't qualify as a real nap to me). Basically, prior to this she has exclusively been napping in the baby carrier. Now, I love babywearing and all, but this is one milestone that I do not feel the least bit sentimental or teary about. YEAH! YEAH! YEAH! In fact, they are both STILL napping AS WE SPEAK (or as I type). Which is why I am currently blogging. I am SO happy that I could literally do a jig (if I didn't think it would wake them up...haha). And I don't dance.

I am fully aware that this might not happen again for some time, but I am CELEBRATING it for what it is today. :) :) :)

A Start...

2011-09-02T10:15:00.000-07:00

Well, we haven't had a chance to load my camera's software, but I found a few pictures that my hubby had so I thought that I would share those for now...

It's Been Awhile...

2011-09-01T12:09:00.001-07:00

It has been SO long since I last blogged and SO much has happened since then. Here's the brief run-down...and hopefully, I will get back into blogging again and elaborate on some of these things before I forget them. I also need to change my layout and all of that, but that will wait for another day. So...here we go...we had a beautiful baby girl, Arabella Mae on April 11...I quit my job and now am staying home with my girlies...and we moved to the city. It amazes me that such a short sentence encapsulates such enormous life changes. It's been both wonderful and challenging, as most life changes tend to be. Well, now that my brief break is over and my kitchen floor is probably dry (mopped for the first time in WAY too long...), I'm off with hopes to have my hubby help me put my pictures on this computer later (I'm a technological idiot) so that I can do some picture posts.

Booty Looty

2010-11-04T08:20:00.000-07:00

:) I couldn't resist bragging on my sister, Ashlie, a little here. She has this amazing Diaperswappers shop called Booty Looty and she recently was featured on a blog and got a great review! To read the review and enter a giveaway, click this link: http://giveawaysandlife.blogspot.com/2010/11/merry-fluffy-christmas-sponsor_03.html
(If it won't click, just copy and paste it into your browser...I'm not great with adding links). Anyways, I just wanted to say that I am so proud of her! I couldn't agree more with the reviewer, by the way. I have a set of cloth wipes that she did for me and they are AWESOME! They hold up very nicely and are made really well. My favorite part about them us how absorbent they are...I've never had to use more than 2 wipes on even the messiest of poos, and that's saying something. Plus, really...they're just cute! And using cute stuff makes it all that much more fun. :)I also have some nursing pads that she made me. While I'm not nursing right now, I did try them on and they are super soft and comfy. And, they don't show through your clothes at all. I think that I can also say with confidence that they are quite absorbent. Yesterday I decided to do a little test with her nursing pads and a set I have from a well known manufacturer. I put a little water on each to see how absorbent they were and if they stayed damp. Within 5 minutes, hers was nearly dry and the other stayed damp for hours. I'm really not exaggerating...the difference amazed me. :) So here's my shameless plug...try her stuff...you won't regret it. :)

PS-I should add the link straight to her shop, too: http://www.diaperswappers.com/forum/showthread.php?t=960164
You will notice that she has FANTASTIC ratings. Trust me, if you try her stuff, you'll see why. :)

Mom's Group

2010-10-19T15:16:00.000-07:00

Today I had the rare blessing of having an extended lunch with the "working mommas of young children group" at my job. It's a very informal group that has lunch together about once every other month and we just chat. It started last year when I emailed my bosses' boss to have lunch with her...just to connect with her because she is one of the few "moms" in my department. Being the awesome person that she is, she decided to have lunch with a number of us in various departments who had babies at about the same age. She did...and we decided to meet every so often after that, too! Because I don't know many mommas, it's refreshing to be able to talk about "momma stuff" without worrying that you will be judged as the "woman who can't talk about anything other than her kid(s)". Today, I found myself listening and marveling...the moms were talking about childcare, schools, preschools, etc. What I found so wonderful was that even though I've landed in some very different territory from them around these choices, each of them was making decisions with such amazing care and love. So often, I think we (okay, me) become critical of those who choose differently than us (me). But really, very often, many parents put an amazing amount of thought, love, care, worry, prayer, etc. into the decisions that they have made. So, even though I'm considering homeschooling for preschool and another momma is checking out the local preschools, we both have put such incredible thought into this decision. One is not right and the other wrong...one is right for one family and another is right for another. So, we are moving towards me becoming a stay at home mom...and another momma is planning to work, we both put incredible thought, time, prayer and energy into these decisions. We both love our children immensely and want the best for them. One is not better than the other...one is not harder than the other...both are filled with challenge...and both mommas have made their choices with the same amount of unselfish love for their child. It's so good for me to be reminded of this...it's so easy to jump to conclusions without knowing the full story...to make judgments before listening. I feel both convicted and inspired. :) Have you ever experienced something like this?

Redesign

2010-10-09T11:26:00.001-07:00

Whatdya' think? :)

Nifty Tip

2010-10-06T17:30:00.000-07:00

So...cool! :) (In my demented way, I absolutely love stuff like this!) I was having problems with residue from my dishwasher (I live/work on a college campus so changing the water soft/hardness is not an option for me), so naturally I googled for tips. I read all kinds of stuff about JetDry (which I am sure is great), but then I stumbled across a tip to try straight white vinegar in the rinse hole thingie (what is that really called? haha...). I am THRILLED to report that it works like a charm. It worked so well that I had to resist the urge to spend all day washing every dish I own in my dishwasher because they sparkled so nicely. My dorky happiness about this compelled me to blog about it...oh my...I need help...haha. :)

PS-I wish I could remember the site I found this on so that I could properly reference it, but I can't...it was a message board of some sort. :)

Exciting News!

2010-10-02T18:39:00.000-07:00

We've got exciting news...we're pregnant again! It was a surprise, and we are excited (and a little scared...but that's normal, right?) We are due on April 22. I hope to have some belly pictures up soon, as well as our early ultrasound. :)

Bye, bye Facebook!

2010-09-13T18:18:00.000-07:00

So...not that this is of much significance to anyone, but I wanted to document why I disabled my Facebook account so that if I consider opening it back up, I can carefully evaluate why I closed it before re-opening it. I also wanted to explain, for the one or two people who might actually wonder about my reasons for getting rid of it.

I've been thinking about it for awhile, and I have started to feel like Facebook is a job to keep up with...and one that I am not able to keep up with well. The more I thought about it, the more ridiculous it seemed. When I started using Facebook, it was just a fun way to keep in touch. Now, it's a burden. And, really, it's optional...and, so much of my life is not optional...so, the optional things that are not at all enjoyable can and should be cut out (unless, of course, they are the sort of things that make you a better person...but you know what I mean). I have a good friend who has always encouraged anyone in her life to regularly evaluate what is life-taking and life-giving and to make choices based on those patterns. Facebook had become incredibly life-taking.

Basically, I was unable to keep up with responding to everyone who would message me or post on my wall (not that I am insanely popular or anything...it was just too much for me on top of everything else that I am trying to balance). With that, I would offend people. The worst was when I would have time to respond to one person, but whoever I didn't respond to would see that I hadn't responded to them, but to someone else and get offended. Or they would see a picture or a comment (not knowing the full story...and get offended). Ugh...and this made me feel badly...and I felt a lot of pressure to keep up with it. And...really...that's not healthy for me. I need to keep my priorities straight...and Facebook should probably not be one of them. Not to mention, I still have email, my cell phone, and my blog. And I would probably get rid my cell phone if it wasn't required for my job, because I hate being constantly reachable (I'd much prefer to live in the moment...to be fully present with the person or moment that I am in). As for email, it's also a necessity for my job. And...my blog...well, I just post when I want to and not when I don't want to...or don't have time...so it's not at all stressful for me. If it ever became stressful, I hope I'd close it. Because there is so much in life that's worth spending time on...and being stressed out by technology that's a choice certainly isn't worth it. Heck, the technology that's mandatory in my life stresses me out enough...I don't need to add to that.

And...as someone else wise has said to me on a number of occasions...this is a season. It's not the most "social" season of my life, but that's okay. This is a season focused on my little family and what God is calling me to...and this particular season will be gone before I even know it. The final kicker for me was in a one-on-one when a RA was telling me how she viewed herself as a steward of whatever circumstance she found herself in...and of what she has been given. I've been so blessed to have the life I currently have and God has made me to be the type of person who handles well juggling only a certain amount of things...and what I can juggle might be less than others, but God has made me to be me, and I need to be okay with that. I don't need to be the person who can handle well lots of friends and social activities on top of a job, child, and husband...there is nothing wrong with that sort of person (at all-if that is you, I admire you immensely), but that is not me. I just need to do my very best with what and who God has given me and not try to be someone that I am not...to be a good steward of what God has given and who he has made me to be. So...so long, Facebook...

PS-If you know me, it won't surprise you at all that I think so intensely about a small choice like Facebook. If you don't know me, you might be thinking...wow, she's a little weird and intense... :)

A Big Mess

2010-07-12T19:40:00.000-07:00

Here's my messy little eater! Isn't she cute? :) She's doing so well learning to use her fork and spoon...she gets a little tired of it by the end and resorts to using her fingers, but I am so proud of how well she's doing. (And, yes, that makes me a big dork. And, yes, I am okay with that.) There are also some pictures from a year ago today. We went to a company picnic that my husband's workplace has every year. I can't believe how much she has grown. I can't wait to take her this year, since she'll actually be old enough to do a little more. :) Oh, I am so in love with her cuteness...now and then...

Rock on, baby girl!

2010-06-22T17:42:00.001-07:00

I am too tired to post much that is significant, so I just post a few pictures of Seraphina's most recent accomplishment...getting up onto her rocking chair by herself and rocking herself. The rocking chair was mine when I was a little girl, so it was a super sentimental moment (Mom, you rock for saving that for me...it means so much). What made the whole deal even cuter was her bringing her book up on there to "read." (We always read stories on the big rocking chair.)

I also thought it would be fun to post a picture of a year ago today...it's CRAZY how much has changed in a year...she had just started playing in her exersaucer at this time last year. Now, only a year later, she is running. Wow!

On a totally random note, any other mommies find it amazing how busy you can feel (and be) during a day, but at the end, your house still looks like a tornado hit it and if someone walked in, they might think, "What does she do all day?" I know I do... ;)

Lastly, happy birthday, Amy S.!

Cutie Patootie

2010-06-21T20:16:00.000-07:00

It's late...I should be sleeping...but little girls didn't want to sleep tonight. It's funny because I've been pining to have our second child recently (which is not going to happen for some time because we need to reduce some of our debt first), but I think tonight cured me of it for a short time (like probably until tomorrow...haha). I had to laugh though...she figured out how to remove her diaper...so this last time when I walked in the room, she had thrown all of her "friends" out of her crib and removed her diaper and pitched it over the side, as well. And when I asked her where her diaper was, she started giggling and giggling. Stinker. ;)

Because I just had to add a picture...the picture above is from May 1...it's hard to believe how much she's grown since then. That was right when she began her headband/hat obsession, so of course, I had to get a picture. (She LOVES to put headbands and hats on...then remove them...then put back on...and remove them...and so on and so on...).

The Start of Summer

2010-06-20T20:21:00.000-07:00

*Before I start, I should mention that I didn't forget Father's Day...I am backtracking a bit in my posts...Father's Day post to come...

Last Saturday marked the first day of my summer break...or my brief time as a stay at home mommy...which I am LOVING! It was a fantastic, relaxing and simple day...it totally reminded me how much I love the simple things...days with no plans...days spent with my little family of three. The pictures are of a walk we took with Seraphina...we live by the Yellow Breeches creek, so as we passed by on our walk, we decided to take her in. She LOVED it! She kept squealing, "Wa-wa, wa-wa!" (Her version of water.) She didn't want to touch her feet down, but she loved touching it and splashing with her hands. Sera ADORES walks...she totally chills out and observes EVERYTHING around her. I would LOVE to know what is going on in that little brain of hers as she takes in the world around her. Later that day, I cooked dinner and we watched a storm. The whole day was filled with little simple pleasures like that. I really love things like that...just daily life...simple, quiet...mmmm...

Before the "Scoot"

2010-03-10T09:40:00.000-08:00

Just for fun, I thought I'd post a video of what she did before she "scooted". Enjoy!

Seraphina's "Crawl"

2010-02-25T12:43:00.000-08:00

Check this out...it's adorable and hilarious! :) Please try to ignore my obnoxious commentary and the poor quality of the video. This is a bit belated since she started doing this awhile ago, but I figured since my family has not seen her do it, they might enjoy it. It's funny because she never really ever did a traditional four point crawl. She started with an army crawl and then moved to this. Enjoy! :)

Strawberry Doll

2010-02-23T11:27:00.000-08:00

Today marks exactly one week until my little girl turns ONE! I know it's a cliche, but I cannot believe how quickly the time has gone. Just one year ago today, I was in labor and honestly believed that I was never going to give birth. (I am blaming pregnancy hormones for that ridiculous thought.) Although I can honestly say that I have enjoyed different aspects of every stage so far, I think that I am most in love with the stage she is in now. I am so proud of her, as she grows and learns more every day. Above are some pictures of her in her new strawberry pajamas. One of her many nicknames is "strawberry doll", so I couldn't resist buying these. Besides that, I absolutely love strawberry themed clothing. Enjoy!

Clorox Anywhere Hard Surface Spray

2009-12-28T10:30:00.000-08:00

So...after having a baby, I feel in love with Clorox Anywhere Hard Surface Spray...I used it for everything...disinfecting changing table pads, diaper pails, trash cans, baby toys, her high chair, kitchen counters...you name it, I disinfected it. Needless to say I went through A TON of this stuff. Recently, I was doing some research about homemade cleaners and found out that all this was was a teensy bit of bleach and water. REALLY?!?! Completely irritated at how much money I threw away on the stuff, I set out to make my own...and I LOVE IT! It's just two teaspoons of bleach (I get the pretty scented stuff to make a nicer smelling concoction) and 24 oz. of water. I got myself a heavy duty spray bottle and I am in love (Rubbermaid makes good ones). And it cost PENNIES!!! Just thought I share...because I wish I'd done this sooner...lol. :)

Do you have any homemade cleaners you like? :)

Merry Christmas!

2009-12-26T18:35:00.000-08:00

We had a WONDERFUL Christmas yesterday! Seraphina slept in (I am sure that it will be the last time that happens in a long time...haha)...and so, her mommy and daddy enjoyed sleeping in, too! :) After we all got up, we ate breakfast...and then started in opening presents. It didn't take Seraphina long to figure out how to unwrap her presents, especially since she had practice during her first Christmas celebration in Ohio last week. ;) While we certainly didn't go crazy with presents, I feel so incredibly blessed to be able to give her gifts at Christmastime. I know that there are so many children all over who don't receive any gifts at Christmas...and I am so incredibly thankful for our blessings. It was absolutely adorable to watch her innocent joy playing with her few new toys. I think her favorite was her Little People Animal Sounds farm...she literally played with ALL DAY...which I think it is saying something to hold such a small child's attention for so long.

On a more serious note, I am so thankful for gift of salvation and the gift of my precious baby girl. As I held her, I thought of what it meant for God to give up his only Son for us...and it has taken on a fresh meaning for me, personally.

On a lighter note, I wanted to record the start of what I hope to be family traditions in the future for us.

-Love Letter (Lance and I hope to write Sera a love letter for every momentous occasion in her life...as a sort of keepsake for her when she is older)
-Christmas ornament (This is the continuation of a tradition from when I was a child...I got a Christmas ornament every year...then when I was an adult, my mom gave me all the saved ornaments to start my tree with...this is SO special to me...and I want to continue this tradition with Sera)
-Christmas Jammies on Christmas Eve (I talked about this in my previous post)

I hope all of you had a wonderful Christmas!

A Look Back...

2009-12-26T11:50:00.000-08:00

Since I am still sorting through the TONS of Christmas pictures I took yesterday of our precious little Serabear...I thought it would be fun to post some pictures from last year. I remember that it was around Christmas last year when I started to feel HUGE. I also remember checking rooms (it's part of my job as a RD) on Christmas Eve...it took me several days to complete the task (I oversee 2 buildings) because walking up and down those stairs exhausted my pregnant self. And...I remember being so super excited that next year (this year) we would have a little one around to celebrate Christmas with. Here are some pictures...a little trip down memory lane...(try to ignore the HIDEOUS haircut I decided to get when I was pregnant...note to self...NEVER make decisions like cutting all your hair off when the least bit hormonal...esp. when pregnant) :)

Merry Christmas Eve!

2009-12-24T22:10:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas Eve! I am giddy with excitement for our first Christmas tomorrow with Seraphina! I am especially excited about all of the family traditions that we are starting! I LOVE traditions!!! (I am sentimental like that, if you hadn't noticed...haha!) Our first Christmas tradition is to open one present on Christmas Eve and it will always be Christmas pajamas. We did this when I was a kid and I always thought it was so fun. Enjoy the pictures of Sera opening her Christmas jammies! (I didn't get any pictures of her actually opening it...I was too busy videoing her!)

The post I write over and over...

2009-12-15T20:49:00.000-08:00

It's funny...I've started this post over and over in my head...but I can never get up the guts to write it...I am not sure why...I think that I am just afraid it will come out wrong?

I want to write about my experience as a working mom...but this can be such a tense subject (I'll admit...I am a bit scared...not that many people read my blog...lol)...since opinions run so deep on the subject. For the record, I think that every mom should do what is best for her and her family...and I don't believe that there is one right answer for everyone. But I will say for me...I long (more than I have ever longed for anything) to be able to be at home with her full time. I say this with so much guilt and conviction...I am convicted a THOUSAND times over about how blessed I am just to have her...how there are women all over whose hearts long for a child and would give anything to have one...and to whom my desire probably sounds selfish and pathetic...thinking things like...I wouldn't care if I had to work if I was so blessed to have a child...(this is not to say that every women should or does want a child...just to say that I can imagine it's incredibly hard to want one and not have one). I do not think I deserve her or even that I deserve to stay at home...it's not my right or anything that I expect. Having her is a BLESSING and a GIFT. I also feel incredibly guilty longing so much to be at home with her when I am blessed to have such a great and flexible job. But my heart aches...and I spend many nights crying...wishing...praying...wanting more than anything to not have to leave her in child care...and I wonder...is there anyone out there experiencing the same thing? I mean...she's 10 months old...why does it still hurt so much? And I wonder...maybe other mothers who have felt like are just stronger than I am? I know that God is teaching me...humbling me...molding me...shaping me through this...and sometimes that process hurts (who am I kidding...that process doesn't just "sometimes" hurt).

Thoughts?

An Allergen Free Thanksgiving...

2009-11-28T07:32:00.000-08:00

So, now that I've had a few hours of sleep...here's a post about our allergen free Thanksgiving dinner (dairy, soy, egg, wheat free). I kept it small and simple, on the one hand (just a few dishes), but made large quantities (as I always do, because I love leftovers...less cooking for me...woohoo!).

Turkey Breast Stuffed with Wild Rice and Cranberries

4 Cups of Cooked Wild Rice (This is what the recipe calls for...I might use more like 6 next time to make it more to my liking...when cooking it, I substituted olive oil for butter)
3/4 Cup Finely Chopped Onion
1/2 Cup Dried Cranberries
1/3 Cup Slivered Almonds
2 Medium Peeled (I peeled them) or Unpeeled Cooking Apples (I used Granny Smith because I like the tart flavor), Coarsely Chopped (2 Cups)
4-5 lb. Boneless Whole Turkey Breast, thawed if frozen (I used about 4 lbs.)

-Mix all ingredients except turkey. Cut turkey into slices at 1-inch intervals about three fourths of the way through, forming deep pockets. Place turkey in 6.5 qt. slow cooker. Stuff pockets with wild rice mixture. Place remaining wild rice mixture around edge of slow cooker. Cover and cook on low heat setting 8-9 or until turkey is no longer pink in center.

Green Beans

2 lbs. Fresh Green Beans

-Simply steam them...nothing beats the taste of freshly steamed green beans.

Roasted Rosemary-Onion Potatoes

8 Medium Potatoes
1/2 Cup Onion, finely chopped (I substituted Onion Powder)
4 Tbsp. Olive Oil
4 Tsp. Dried Rosemary Leaves
1/2 Tsp. Dried Thyme
1/2 Tsp. Salt
1/4 Tsp. Pepper

-Heat oven to 450. Grease (with Spectrum shortening or canola oil spray if making allergen free) 2 9x13 pans. Cut potatoes into 1 inch chunks. Mix remaining ingredients in large bowl. Add potatoes and toss to coat. Spread potatoes in pan and bake uncovered for 20-25 minutes (I found it took about 15 minutes longer), turning occasionally, until potatoes are light brown and tender when pierced with fork. (Next time I might add garlic salt for a bit more flavor...)

Apple Crumble

5 large apples - peeled, cored and chunked (I used 6 Granny Smith Apples)
3 tbsp. lemon juice
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/4 tsp. nutmeg
1/4 tsp. vanilla
A pinch of salt
6 tbsp. non-dairy margarine (I used olive oil, but I think Spectrum Shortening might have worked better...btw, Spectrum shortening is a dairy and soy free butter/margarine replacement...it's coconut oil based)
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 box Enjoy Life ® No-oats "Oatmeal" cookies

Start by putting apples in a bowl with the lemon juice. Combine apples with the sugar, cinnamon and nutmeg. Toss to coat. Spray 8 x 8 inch pan with a cooking spray (any canola oil spray is fine). Spread apples in the bottom of the pan. Place the cookies, brown sugar, margarine, vanilla and a pinch of salt in the food processor and process until well combined. Spread the cookie mixture over the apples and bake in a 350°F oven for 40 minutes (which I found to be a bit too long).

*I got this recipe from the Enjoy Life foods website...they have lots of great allergen free dessert recipes. Additionally, I love, love, love their products. They are all free of the top 8 allergens and taste really good (even non-allergen free eaters tend to agree).

I have so much yet to blog about...pictures of our rearranged living room...Sera's reaction to the Christmas tree (priceless)...all the things that I am thankful for...but this will have to do for now. Perhaps after little girls go to sleep tonight (if she sleeps...unlike last night...)

Too Tired...

2009-11-27T21:57:00.000-08:00

Well, our tree is up and our living room is totally rearranged...Seraphina now has a whole section as "play room" of sorts...I am officially too tired to post what I had hoped to...more to come...

One Task Accomplished :)

2009-11-27T10:33:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, I successfully made our small allergen free Thanksgiving dinner. :) Yeah! And, it didn't taste half bad...so, I am pleased! :) Today we are making a dent in that laundry stack I talked about, as well as putting up the tree. We can't seem to decide where to put it, though. :) I will post pictures of our dinner and recipes, later tonight (after little girls go to bed). In other news, I have joined the homemade baby food camp (never thought I would...thought it was too much work for our busy life). However, I found it to be much simpler so far than I thought it would be. That could be a whole other post...though...I have so many to write...heehee...not that many people read this...but I want to be able to look back someday. Speaking of, I read my Thanksgiving post from last year...ah, memories...I had forgotten that we made a video of ourselves for Sera to see someday...now, if only I could find that video...

Goals for Thanksgiving Break

2009-11-25T12:56:00.000-08:00

I thought I'd post my goals for Thanksgiving Break...let's see how much of this really gets done...lol...but hey, you're supposed to aim high, right?

-cook an allergen free (no soy, dairy, wheat, eggs) Thanksgiving that is at least somewhat edible and that vaguely resembles a traditional Thanksgiving dinner (if you are wondering why the allergen free...I am nursing Seraphina still and she is allergic to those foods...so, I can't eat them...which could be a post topic of it's own, if I ever get to it)
-take pictures of Seraphina in her beautiful fall dress and do a Thanksgiving post
-make a dent in the endless stack of laundry...focus on dent...or even just enough that we all have something clean to wear from day to day
-clean our apartment so it's not nasty when I host the judges for "Deck the Halls" next week...vaguely resembling clean would also be acceptable :)
-make a Christmas shopping list*
-start listening to Christmas music*
-decorate for Christmas (at minimum, get the tree up)*
*I know, I know...I am old school...I never, ever do anything Christmas-related until after Thanksgiving...but after having Sera, I am wondering if this should change next year...perhaps there could be some value in planning ahead? ;)
-catch up on some work that I am behind on...or at least the stuff that I am really, really behind on (also, could be it's own post if I ever got around to it...life balancing a live-in job and a beautiful baby)
-make a list of what I need to do before I go home for my little sister's wedding
-pump as often as possible to try and increase my milk supply

*However, no matter what, my most important goal is to enjoy my little family this Thanksgiving! :)

I am so proud of him!

2009-10-27T20:35:00.000-07:00

So, I know this is shameless...but I am SO proud of my husband! He's been working on a photography website for some time now, and it is finally up and running...and I think it looks GREAT! It's basically the home for his photography business...he does weddings, kid pictures, maternity pictures (samples of those to come later), and his favorite...landscapes. If you see something you like, you can purchase it off the website. Also, if you like the style of his other work, you can contact him to take pictures for you. Totally shameless plug...I know...but I can't help myself...I'm his wifey...so I think it's alright. :) :) Great work honey!

www.sovierro.com

Thoughts

2009-09-28T17:49:00.000-07:00

So today I had to lead a devotion type thing at my RD meeting (staff meeting of co-workers led by my supervisor). We all take turns leading each week, and I had volunteered for this week. So I thought I'd share because it's been on my heart lately.

There are a lot of things I am not so great at, but showing people how much I care for them in tangible ways is definitely one of them. I am not the person who always remembers everyone's birthday...sends a card and gift on time...who thinks to send a thoughtful card to a friend...who always remembers to call or write at the right times...the list could go on and on. I've tried to become one of those people, especially because, as a woman, I feel like I should be like that. But, I fail over and over. I hate that feeling...of not being a good friend...or wishing the people I care about knew how much I love them, but stinking at showing it. I can't tell you how many times I've wished they could see into my heart...to see how I really felt...the depth of how much I care. See, I feel things a lot more deeply and care a ton more than most people know. While there's much to be done to show those I love that I do love and appreciate a lot more than it probably seems like I do...I am so glad that God can see my heart towards him...that he knows I love him...that is not to say that I love God perfectly...I don't...I've just always been glad that I don't need to prove my love to him...he just knows. He doesn't need my worship to fit into a specific mold. He just needs me to be me and love him with all that I have. And, I don't know about you, but I think that's incredibly freeing.

Below is a devotion that I read that talks about that:

Many believe we were created to serve God. If God wanted only servants, He could make some a lot better than we are. He could command billions of angels to instantly obey Him, and they would never drag their heels as some of us do.

But God created man in His likeness so we could love and worship Him in a unique way.

If we give God our strength, He is no stronger. If we give God our wisdom, He is no wiser. If we give God our power, we can’t make Him any more powerful. What God wants from us is our hearts.

If we pray without giving our hearts, the prayer is mockery. If we work without giving our hearts, our efforts are an insult. If we teach without giving our hearts, our lessons are mere ignorance. If we serve without giving our hearts, our acts are hypocrisy; and if we witness without giving our hearts, our words are perjury. God wants our hearts!

The blessed thing about it is this: There are some who can pray better than I, there are some who can work better than I, there are some who can teach or preach or witness better than I, but no one can worship with their heart better than you or I. No one can give his or her heart any better than you. That is something we all can do equally well.

We were created to worship God, to love Him with all our hearts. This is the first and great commandment.

(Taken from a devotional written by Earl Bailey, a collection of devotions written by various members of the Malone College community entitled A Gathered Stillness.)

Further, I thought I'd share one of my favorite psalms that further highlights these things (I love David, don't you? He's just so real and honest...I feel like he'd be one of those amazingly refreshing people to know, don't you?)

Psalm 51 (The Message)

1-3Generous in love—God, give grace! Huge in mercy—wipe out my bad record.
Scrub away my guilt,
soak out my sins in your laundry.
I know how bad I've been;
my sins are staring me down.

4-6 You're the One I've violated, and you've seen
it all, seen the full extent of my evil.
You have all the facts before you;
whatever you decide about me is fair.
I've been out of step with you for a long time,
in the wrong since before I was born.
What you're after is truth from the inside out.
Enter me, then; conceive a new, true life.

7-15 Soak me in your laundry and I'll come out clean,
scrub me and I'll have a snow-white life.
Tune me in to foot-tapping songs,
set these once-broken bones to dancing.
Don't look too close for blemishes,
give me a clean bill of health.
God, make a fresh start in me,
shape a Genesis week from the chaos of my life.
Don't throw me out with the trash,
or fail to breathe holiness in me.
Bring me back from gray exile,
put a fresh wind in my sails!
Give me a job teaching rebels your ways
so the lost can find their way home.
Commute my death sentence, God, my salvation God,
and I'll sing anthems to your life-giving ways.
Unbutton my lips, dear God;
I'll let loose with your praise.

16-17 Going through the motions doesn't please you,
a flawless performance is nothing to you.
I learned God-worship
when my pride was shattered.
Heart-shattered lives ready for love
don't for a moment escape God's notice.

18-19 Make Zion the place you delight in,
repair Jerusalem's broken-down walls.
Then you'll get real worship from us,
acts of worship small and large,
Including all the bulls
they can heave onto your altar!

Dear Migraine

2009-08-05T11:28:00.000-07:00

Dear Migraine,

I would like to let you know that I was not pleased with your decision to visit me last night, uninvited, I might add...and, despite all my attempts to kick you out...you have decided to stay today. I did not have you planned into my busy week and your visit did not come at a good time. I do realize that I probably should have seen you coming, as you preceded by your best friends, Stress and Anxiety... ;)
I would like to add that I did not appreciate you kicking my good friend, Sleep, out...he and I have a long standing tradition of meeting nightly and your presence wasn't welcome.

Hoping you are a houseguest I don't see again soon! ;) Stephanie

Lance and I

2009-07-25T12:34:00.001-07:00

I was tagged in this note on facebook, and I thought it would be fun to answer the questions. I'd love to see responses for you and your spouse, too...so if you read this, copy and paste and do your own post. :)

1. What are your middle names? Ann and Justin

2. How long have you been together? Married for 5 years as of July 10, 2009

3. How long did you know each other before you started dating? It's difficult to say, as Lance didn't "technically" ask me out on what we now consider our first date...but once he paid for my dinner...I kinda figured it was a date. We were friends for awhile before dating, but the transition between friendship and dating was fairly seamless and natural.

4. Who asked who out? I suppose Lance asked me out, if you count that "non-date" as "asking out." :)

5. Whose siblings do you see the most? Probably mine...

6. Do you have any children together? Yes!!! We had our first child, Seraphina Marie, on March 2, 2009...we LOVE her!!!

7. What about pets? No, unfortunately. We live in an apartment on a college campus and are not permitted to have pets in our apartment. If we could, though, I think we'd have a big dog.

8. Did you go to the same school? No

9. Who is the most sensitive? Me...no question. Although, Lance is very sensitive to how those around him are feeling...he's not sensitive in the way that he is easily hurt.

10. Where do you eat out most as a couple? We can't eat out right now because of a no soy, no dairy diet I am on because Sera is allergic to those things (nursing her), but before we probably ate most at Molly Brannigans (Irish Pub in Harrisburg).

11. Where is the furthest you two have traveled together as a couple? Washington State (Seattle and Mount Rainier area) for our honeymoon and Portland, Oregon for a conference I attended (I am guessing those are approximately equidistant)

12. Who has the craziest exes? Well, uh, I have more exes than Lance...most of them aren't crazy, though.

13. Who has the worst temper? Lance...it takes me a lot of effort to get mad and lose my temper...I despise shouting, so I am not really a temper sort of person...I tend to internalize my feelings or cry.

14. Who does the cooking? Me...I can't say that I am a great cook, but I am learning. I don't always enjoy cooking, though...sometimes it just seems like a lot of effort for something that is gone in a few minutes. Lance does make a mean breakfast (which he sometimes does on weekends) and is great at grilling, which he loves. He's also a more creative cook than I am...and a lot of his "concoctions" turn out amazing! (I'm not that brave...give me a recipe...I only experiment after I feel I fully understand what I am making...and even then, it makes me uncomfortable...)

15. Who is more social? Hmmm...we are both introverts...it's hard to say. My job is very social, so sometimes it seems like Lance seeks out social opportunities more than I do, but overall, I'd say we're about even...maybe Lance is a bit more social than I am.

16. Who is the neat freak? We both are in our own ways...it works out pretty well...he is anti-clutter and I like things clean...we can both be messy at times, but we both have systems of organization and cleaning...and we're both painfully slow at organizing and cleaning...which works out well because we don't annoy each other often with that. I love having the freedom to be my slow self around him!

17. Who is the most stubborn? Hmmm...that's a close one...we are both stubborn...but I might be a bit more stubborn than he is.

18. Who hogs the bed? I do...but not on purpose...once I fall asleep I tend to become a bed hog (so I am told).

19. Who wakes up earlier? We both hate waking up early (also LOVE that about Lance). It depends on who has to go to work earlier. Sera is not a morning person either...she typically naps until about 11AM, so we are a non-morning person family.

20. Where was your first date? A Tex-Mex place in Canton, Ohio (non-date)...first "technical date" was at Carrabba's

21. Do you get flowers often? On most holidays and sometimes "just because"...I LOVE flowers! :)

22. How long did it take to get serious? Hmmm...awhile...a few years...we both are very cautious people...Lance probably more so than me...

23. Who eats more? Lance, but I can hold my own! :)

24. Who sings better? Lance, no question...I am a HORRIBLE singer.

25. Who does the laundry? I do, because I really enjoy doing laundry...but if I am really busy and get behind he just does it without me even asking for help.

26. Who’s better with the computer? Definitely Lance...hands down...

27. Who drives when you are together? Lance...I hate driving and I'm a terrible driver...

28. Who picks where you go to dinner? Usually me...he will rarely will ever say what he wants...it usually goes something like...what do want?...I don't care...what do you want?...i don't care...and on and on

29. Who wears the pants? Lance is more decisive than I am and has a few things he puts his foot down on...but I am probably more bossy than he is in general...

31. Who has the better sense of humor? Lance...he makes me laugh all the time! I love to laugh, but I don't often think of or say things that make others laugh (on purpose...that is)

32. Who eats more sweets? Most of the time, I do...but we both love sweets!

33. Who cries more? Me, by a long, long, long shot...I can't count the number of times Lance has cried on one hand...me, I cry...well, a lot...

34. What's your favorite tv show together? Deadliest Catch, Law and Order, House, 24

Ohio Pictures Part One

2009-07-10T09:32:00.000-07:00

Hannah Exploring

Sera with Pop-pop (my dad)

Campfire that night at my parent's house...I love, love, love campfires!

Close Up of baby Gabe...isn't he precious?

My sister Krissy holding baby Gabe

Grandma (my mom) holding Sera

Daddy focused on driving...and finding the next Starbucks...hehe

Me goofing off while waiting for Daddy...I was so excited I couldn't sleep the night before, so I had lots of time on my hands.

Sera on the couch waiting for Daddy to finish getting ready...she woke up early that morning...it was almost like she knew something cool would happening that day! ;)

These are the pictures from our first day there. It was Sera's first road trip...we opted to leave around 6AM (very early for us non-morning people) to maximize sleep in the car time. All in all, she did very well. :) (Sorry that they are in backwards order...)

Ohio Visit

2009-07-09T16:17:00.001-07:00

Last week, I visited Ohio after the birth of my nephew...isn't he cute? Check out his gorgeous head of hair! It was WONDERFUL to hold his adorable newborn self and to spend time with my family! More pictures to come soon! :)

Insomnia

2009-06-27T00:44:00.000-07:00

It's 3:45AM...

...and I can't sleep...

...not because Sera isn't sleeping...

...because she is fabulous and sleeps through the night...

...there must be something wrong with me ;)

What Do You Think?

2009-06-25T13:11:00.001-07:00

...of my redesign?

Father's Day

2009-06-25T11:02:00.000-07:00

I love this picture of the two of them! :)

Random Fun with Daddy

Lance with Sera at her Three Month Photo Shoot

Her 2 Month Photo Shoot

Lance feeding Sera at the Residence Life Banquet

Snuggling on the couch...Lance loves to hold her like that :)

First Days at Home...Sera was 6 days old here.

Adoring His Little Girl

Proud New Papa

This post is a bit belated...it's been a happening week...but this past Sunday was my husband's first Father's Day. :) He is such a wonderful new daddy to Sera and a great husband to Sera! I have loved watching him in his new role as daddy...it fits him so naturally. He is so sensitive to anything she needs or wants...from the time she was born (he held her all night the first night) to now...he will drop whatever he is doing to help her or play with her. In honor of him, I thought I'd post a bunch of pictures of him and Sera. :)

*I also want to do a post about how my parents rock...I need to get some pics of them and Sera...I have been so happy to see them the past couple of times I saw them that I totally forget to take pictures...so look for that post after my next visit...I am determined to take pictures of them this time. :)

A Walk...Where I Live

2009-06-24T10:35:00.001-07:00

A View of the Swinging Bridge

I like this shot a lot :)

Love these orange flowers (I don't know the technical name for them, but they are pretty)

View from inside the Covered Bridge

Bench by the Yellow Breeches Creek

A tree I like the shape of...

Flowers and Old Stone...There is a railroad by here...I love it when I catch the train going by on my walk :)

Beautiful greens! A view of the Yellow Breeches Creek

Covered Bridge over the Yellow Breeches Creek

One of the entrance signs

Tree-lined path

Most of the time (when I am not missing family and friends in Ohio...which is a lot of the time), I LOVE where I live. But besides being far away from people I care about, this is a great place to live. I love, love, love the greens here in the summer...it is so green. I am especially blessed to live on a particularly beautiful college campus. I generally try to take a walk most every day...and when I do, I usually find myself wishing I had my camera so that I could take some pictures and post them here of some of things I find pretty on my walk. I finally remembered to do that yesterday. It's probably kinda boring for most of you...but someday...when I don't live here anymore...I want to be able to remember the sights of the walk that I take most days with Sera and enjoy so much. (You'll notice that there aren't any pics of her...that's only because the ones on the post below were ones I took at the beginning of our walk...she fell asleep after that I didn't want to disturb her by taking her picture.) Okay, gotta go...if I don't use this time while she's napping to get a shower, I might be stinky all day...and that would not be good...hehe.

*My photography skills are not so good, so these pics don't do it justice, but you can get the idea...

Exciting News!!!

2009-06-23T19:08:00.001-07:00

What Momma? You have exciting news?

Well, come on...tell me!

Yeah! I have a cousin! That is EXCITING!

I am so excited! I wish I was there! My sister Ashlie had a little boy today...Gabriel Steven...8 lbs. 4 oz. and 19.5 inches and born around 4:45 today. I am SO excited for them...we can't wait to meet our new nephew! (Sera is excited too...can you tell? ;) )

The First Time...

2009-05-22T11:28:00.001-07:00

Today marks a mini-celebration for me! Okay, it's not that big of a deal, but it gives me hope...

Hope that one day...I might fit into some of my pre-pregnancy wardrobe. I am too practical...I know some of it may never fit again due to my hips being wider and such...but I can't help hoping that some of it will someday fit. :) Don't mock me, but it's mostly because I am cheap...sure I miss my pre-pregnancy body, but I don't hate the one I have now...most of the time, I feel like...hey, it's not that bad...but I despise the idea of spending money on new clothes. I did break down and buy one pair of capris that fit...but right now, workout pants, scrubs, and maternity clothes from the beginning of my pregnancy are my wardrobe.

But today, I had a glimmer of hope...I put on my biggest pre-pregnancy jeans...and...I got them over my rear...adrenaline rush #1...and then...they zipped...super adrenaline rush. Now, mind you, I won't be wearing them anywhere soon...it's not a pretty sight...nor is it really appropriate for trouser jeans to fit that tightly...but...still...it was enough to give me hope that one day I would wear them again. :)

And, maybe, just maybe, I won't have to spend that much on new clothes for me...

...leaving me more money to spend on fun things...

...like adorable outfits for my little girl! :)

Happy Mother's Day!

2009-05-12T09:18:00.001-07:00

This Sunday was my first Mother's Day...I feel so, so blessed to get to be a mom...and especially, to get to be Sera's mom. :) We started the day by going to a new church...it was cool, but I think we need to go again to get a true feel for it...it was baby dedication day, so it was not the regular service...I did like the way the pastor did baby dedications, though...he incorporated the meaning of each baby's first and middle name into the dedication...which I had never seen done before, and that was really special. After that, we went home and got some pictures of Sera and us as a family. Then, we went to Barnes and Nobles and Pier One and hung out a bit. Oh, and Lance got me flowers and the second book in the Twilight series (I am so addicted...lol). Then, Lance took me to a nice dinner at the restaurant called the Firehouse. It's the one of the oldest firehouses and it's restored into a restaurant...it was really cool. Then we went and got key lime pie at Wegmans and went home...after all that, we were exhausted...but it was a good, good day! :)

More Daddy Love and Cuteness

2009-04-20T08:14:00.000-07:00

Lance Loves to Cuddle with Her Like This :)
Doesn't she look like a little doll?

Precious!
(Her adorable sweater and bonnet were mine when I was a little girl...in case you haven't figured it out, my mom pretty much rocks for saving this adorable stuff!)

I cannot believe that my little Sera is 7 weeks old today...wow, has time ever flown. I was looking at the date on these pictures (ones above) and I realized that was nearly a month ago...wow! (I am going through my old pictures backwards...so if it looks like she is getting younger in these pics, that's why). Right now she is taking her morning nap...sometimes I nap with her (okay, a lot of times, I nap with her), but today I decided to take advantage of the time and get stuff done. I actually like when I do that more because it makes me feel like I didn't waste my day...but then again, napping with your little girl is NEVER a waste of time.

Last night, I put her in the pack and play for the first time in a long time...Lance is afraid if we continue to let her sleep in our bed, she will have trouble transitioning to her crib. She actually slept well last night, but I did not. I'm not gonna lie...I MISSED her! Pathetic, huh? She was so cute, though, she talked to the bears on her mobile for a long time (cooing is what I mean when I say talking...lol)...then she sucked on her hand (she wasn't hungry...just soothing herself)...she didn't cry at all. I did, however, put her in bed with me for a bit in the morning after her early feeding...I just couldn't resist.

In other updates, I recently had my 6 week postpartum appointment, and all is well...I really like my practice...with one exception, I feel like the doctors and midwives are very caring and understanding...something I really value. :)

Well, my laundry calls...

Vintage

2009-04-19T11:10:00.000-07:00

The outfit and bear were mine when I was a little girl...the bear is very special to me...I love that bear! Thank you, mom, for saving these...and especially, for digging up that bear! :)

Sera's favorite way to be held by me...she likes Lance to hold her the other way...but for me...she likes being upright...

Sleepie Baby

2009-04-17T17:44:00.000-07:00

Nothing's cuter than a sleeping baby. :)

Mama Love

2009-04-15T15:18:00.000-07:00

A Typical Sera Position...Precious (PS-Her head is much more supported than this angle makes it look like...)

Pure Love

Oh, do I love my little girl! Today was kind of a lazy day...this morning I decided to just spend a few hours cuddling with Sera...I am not really a morning person...and I figured, hey, I don't have anywhere to be...and who knows when I will have this kind of freedom again (not working...and just one child)...so, why not? It was WONDERFUL! I napped a little, but mostly I just watched her sleep and thought about how amazing it is that God has blessed us with her. Short of salvation, she really is the best thing that has ever happened to me. :) The afternoon was a little hectic...let's just say, she was a little fussy...but that's okay. :) Well, hubbie is home now...so I will go! :)

Daddy's Girl

2009-04-14T13:17:00.000-07:00

Sera is such a daddy's girl...look at her gaze into her daddy's eyes...it makes me laugh...sometimes after her night feeding, she will lay there and stare at Lance and babble at him...like hey, daddy, look at me...she also LOVES to play with her daddy...it's the first thing he does when he comes home from work...it's so cool to see him as a dad. :)

Seraphina Marie at One Month

2009-04-03T08:01:00.000-07:00

*As promised, here are Sera's One Month Pictures...I have a TON more...but these were some of my favorites. My wonderful husband is editing these, and, yes, family you will have copies of her one month pictures (ps-having a husband gifted in this way is a GREAT way to save money ;) ). If you are wondering, the outfit was mine when I was a little girl...my amazing mom saved a bunch of my outfits for me...and I think it makes her one month pictures that much more special, don't you? (I am a bit sappy that way.)

Well, I have been a total slacker about posting these days...but I intend to catch up...I suppose a newborn is a good excuse for not blogging...but I want to try to start again...for 2 reasons: 1. This blog serves as a journal of sorts...and I don't want to forget these precious memories...I already cannot believe how time is flying 2. I miss my family a lot...and I hate living so far away...and blogging is a way for them to see what's going on in my life...and more importantly, Sera's (My sister, Ashlie, does a blog...and I know how reading it makes me feel like I know more of what is going on with Hannah-my niece).

*Once Lance gets home, I want to post some pictures...I need him to load them from my camera for me...I am a technological idiot...

But, at one month, Seraphina Marie...

-occasionally (and I stress "occasionally") goes 4-6 hours between a feeding at night (YEAH!)
-still has her beautiful strawberry blonde/auburnish unique shade of red hair (and Mommy and Daddy are praying for it to stay)
-loves her bath
-sleeps most of the night with mommy and daddy (we didn't intend to co-sleep...it just seems to be the best way to get her to sleep longer...any suggestions on transitioning her back to her pack and play-it's in our room still-are very welcome)
-is taking more interest in the world around her...loves to look at everything
-has an official Messiah College ID # (I am a dork...but I think that's really cool)
-squeaks, grunts and coos
-loves to have her feet rubbed
-loves to cuddle with mommy and daddy
-is the best thing that ever happened to her mommy and daddy

Names we call her:
*Punka Bean or Punka
*Squeaka Bean or Squeaka
*Seri
*Sera
*Sera Bear or Sera Beara
*Doll, Dolla, or Dolly
*Angel
*Princess
*Beautiful (pronounced Hannah style...Boodabowl)
*Baby Girl

Seraphina Marie is Here!

2009-03-14T14:43:00.000-07:00

We are excited to announce the arrival of Seraphina Marie, born March 2 at 2:18 AM at 6 lbs. 9 oz. and 19 inches! More to come later...

Today...

2009-01-07T16:53:00.000-08:00

...I am trying to keep in mind what really matters and what doesn't...

Some things that matter...
-my wonderful husband
-the precious little girl growing inside me
-my family
-true friends
-God, my loving Father

Some things that don't matter...
-my messy home (esp. the dirty dishes and laundry that are piling up)
-my unanswered emails
-work I haven't finished
-expectations that I can't or shouldn't meet
-what people think
-trying to be perfect

*Seems so basic...wonder why it's so hard to live it?

Happy New Year!

2009-01-02T07:49:00.000-08:00

These are pictures from the trip we took with my family to Pittsburgh to get the crib and changing table/dresser that my parents very graciously got for us. We had a lot of fun staying in the hotel...and, as you can see, so did Hannah! :)

Sera's Crib :)

Rocking chair that was mine when I was a little girl...it plays music when it rocks...on it are the little bunny which was the first gift that Lance and I bought for Sera, her doll from her grandparents, and an adorable giraffe that my sister, Ashlie, and Hannah (my niece) got for her

Totes for underneath the changing table (full of stuff) :)

Changing Table/Dresser Combo (I had so much fun organizing all of her clothes in there) :)

Happy New Year everyone! I love the start of a new year...I know that in reality, it's just another day, but I love the feeling of newness and freshness it gives you! :) This New Year's Day was a great one for me...Lance didn't have to work at either job (that's incredibly rare on a weekday), so we thoroughly enjoyed the time together. I tried my hardest to stay up for the ball dropping, but I fell asleep (third trimester kicking my butt), but Lance woke me up at MIDNIGHT to watch it, and then I fell back asleep. (I am actually surprised he stayed up, being that he had worked both jobs that day.) On New Year's Day, we slept in a bit (trying to savor every chance we get to do that since we know it won't be for long), and then made a delicious brunch together and watched an episode from the Man vs. Wild dvd my parents got him (we LOVE Man vs. Wild). Then we cleaned up some and starting working on Sera's room and taking down Christmas decorations. For dinner, he had made some extra money in tips at the coffee shop, so we went to our favorite Chinese restaurant. I LOVE Chinese food (okay, so I know it's Americanized Chinese food...but I love it, nonetheless). Then we went to Target and looked at literally everything in the store, with special attention to the baby stuff! Yeah! It is so fun to be shopping without a specific mission (it's rare for us to do that...). We enjoyed it, but we are one store type of people if we are browsing (neither of us are big on shopping), so that was thoroughly satisfying. (Can you tell we don't get out much? If Target is a thrill?) I was really excited to find the canvas tote boxes for Sera's room there (on sale, too)! Then we came home and finished Sera's room and watched a movie together. (Okay, I should say that Sera's part of the room is as done as it can currently be, but Lance's part (he has a very small section of the room for his office) is not really done...that may be a work in progress...he's very thorough when he cleans, so it takes some time. It is so fun to be working on her room and imagine her being there! :) Speaking of, today marks the beginning of the 8th month of pregnancy for me! Yeah!

Christmas 2008

2008-12-31T08:14:00.001-08:00

Ashlie in Her New Coat!

Cute Husband!

Hannah Loving Her Table from Grandma and Grandpa

Precious Hannah!

Love Lance!

Christmas with My Family!

My Belly!

Our Tree

Krissy and Jerod

Christmas this year was good...but too fast (time with family always goes too fast). :) On Christmas Day, we drove to Ohio to see Lance's family. We went to a Christmas gathering at his grandpa's and then a really big (like over 50 people) gathering with one side of his family. By the end of that day, we were exhausted (as you can imagine...driving, then 2 Christmases). The next day we just hung out with his family. The following morning, we got up and drove to my family's . That night we had Christmas with them, then the next day, we went to my Aunt Heather's for Christmas there. Some highlights included seeing Lance's baby cousin Lily (6 months old). She is adorable...and I really enjoy his Aunt Michelle and Uncle AJ (Lily's parents). Also love seeing my niece and nephews...they are growing up so fast! My favorite part of the weekend was seeing Hannah...I think she is absolutely precious. My sister and her husband do such a good job raising her...plus, she is just so sweet. I just love seeing her run around, smile, open presents, and just be her precious 2 year old self. Seeing my sisters and mom and dad is also so good...being at home...well, it just feels like home. I love being with my family...it's great to be around people who know you so well...and love you despite your faults...and just having the security of knowing that they will always love you. I recognize that this isn't everyone's experience and I am thankful for the blessing of my family. I also enjoyed Christmas at my Aunt Heather's. We played some games that she had come up with...which was a lot of fun. :) I also loved seeing everyone play with the Wii...especially my mom and dad...they are so cute! :) Finally, Lance and I had a good ride back to PA...because we are so busy, it's rare that we get such an extended period of time to just talk. We relished the conversation we had over that time. Overall, I feel so blessed! :)

(I don't have as many pics as I wish I did...I am terrible about taking them...)

Seraphina's First Doll

2008-12-29T09:36:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas All! So I have much more to post about Christmas, but I wanted this to be its own post. This Christmas, Seraphina got her first doll from her grandma and grandpa. It is PRECIOUS! I just loved that they got her this doll...and I think it's such a beautiful doll for her first doll. I can't wait to watch her play with it someday...and to tell her how this was her first doll and that grandma and grandpa got it for her. Thank you Mom and Dad!

Engagement Anniversary

2008-12-23T19:34:00.001-08:00

Today is the five year anniversary of the day that Lance and I got engaged! :) I couldn't be happier to be married to such a wonderful man. Thank you, Lance, for never ceasing to pray for me, for always defending me and fighting for me, for teaching me, for growing with me, for loving me as I am, for challenging me, for putting my needs above yours, and most of all, for choosing me to spend the rest of your life with! I love you, honey!

These are some of my favorite pictures of us over the years...:)

I will never forget our engagement...he was living in Colorado at the time and was back in Ohio visiting for Christmas. He told me he wanted to take me on a special Christmas date, so we got dressed up and went to Cleveland. We went out to eat at the fanciest restaurant I have ever been to, went on a trolley tour of Cleveland, then went to see a Christmas tree display. While there, he proposed on a balcony (in private). :) We got married in July of that year, then! :) Although we spent much of our engagement long distance, it was a time of growing in our relationship that I will never forget...because we spent so much time on the phone, we got to know each other really well, improved our communication, and just grew together in ways that we might not have if we had been in the same state.

As I look back, one thing comes to mind...God has been good to us! :)

Congrats, Ashlie!!! :) :)

2008-12-23T10:44:00.000-08:00

So, my sister announced on her blog that she is pregnant! I am so excited and have been for awhile...it's just reading it reminds me and makes me so excited for her! Plus, being the dork that I am, I think it's really fun that we are pregnant together...it's very special to me! :) I wish that I had a picture of her from her visit, but of course, I am a slacker and forget to take pictures... I am so excited that her little one will be born in July (she probably thinks I am a dork...lol...but I think it's really cool that this is her second child, who will most likely have a July birthday...and she is a second child with a July birthday). I can hardly wait 8 weeks to find out what she is having! I am pretty bad at predicting, so I won't venture to guess. Anyway, congrats Ashlie! I am so happy for you! You are already an amazing mom (I only hope that I can do as well)...this baby is very blessed child to have you as its mother (and Nick as its father and precious Hannah as its sister). :) :) :)

A Little Thrill...

2008-12-21T12:53:00.000-08:00

I love fleece...can't wait to wear this on a regular basis! :)

So, last Wednesday, I had a momentary thrill that I thought I would share...if you've ever been pregnant, you will probably understand. :) I was at a Christmas Luncheon for our department at work and we got these wonderful Land's End fleeces as a gift (they are very soft and nice...very appreciated). Well, my supervisor had been very thoughtful and asked me ahead of time whether I would want my pre-pregnancy size or a size I could wear now. :) So I said my pre-pregnancy size...so that I could wear it longer. Well, I fully expected it not to fit, but thought it would be funny to try it on anyway...and IT FIT! Granted, it was very tight and I will wait to wear it until I shrink some...but I was elated on the inside a bit! When it seems like you just keep getting bigger and bigger (which is good when pregnant, but still...), it's so nice to fit something you were sure you wouldn't. Little things make me happy... :)

Thoughts on Christmas

2008-12-17T05:45:00.001-08:00

Someone sent me this email...and I thought that it rings so, so true...and that it would make a good post.

At this time year, it is so easy to get wrapped up in the busyness of the season. "So much to do, so little to do them in." Right? People get so stressed out what "needs" to be done, that they forget to ponder the meaning of Christmas. Psalms 46:10a says "Be still, and know that I am God." However, it is hard to get away from all the commercialism that has distorted Christmas to the point that this holiday meas a time of giving. In the well-known Christmas carol "Silent Night," it is written with such a profound understanding of what it means understand the meaning of Christmas. It's words are:
"Silent night, Holy night,"
All is calm, All is bright.
'round yon virgin, mother and child,
Holy infant so tender and mild.
Sleep in heavenly peace,
Sleep in heavenly peace."
It was out of the stillness of Bethlehem that the Messiah was born. Immanuel, God with us; Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of peace, was born in a lowly stable to one day save us from our sins. Christmas is the celebration of fulfilled promises and of the gift of salvation. So remember as you go about the business of Christmas preparation, finals, etc... remember to take time to thank God for the gift of His Son, Jesus Christ. Christmas decorations and trimmings are great, but the don't mean much if you don't remember the new born child in Bethlehem. Without him, Christmas just doesn't mean much.

Kinda Cool

2008-12-16T14:32:00.000-08:00

I think I had my first Braxton-Hicks on Sunday night...if it wasn't that, it was just weird. It felt like my uterus tightened...kinda scrunched up...from bottom to top...that's what that would be, right?

In other news, Lance had an interview today with a graphic design company. He thinks it went pretty well, and it would be a GREAT job, so pray, if you would. Right now, he is working so many hours that he is very sleep deprived and the thinnest he has ever been (despite my trying to feed him as much as possible)...and the second job is manual labor...hence, the thin...so this would be so much better. It would be 9-5, with holidays off, benefits, etc. Of course, we are both just thankful he is currently employed...and don't believe that we have anything to complain about...we know that there are plenty out there without jobs, so we are so very thankful for what we have. Either way, the interview was good experience for him, and they LOVED his portfolio...so, regardless, it was encouraging! :)

On a related note, my sister Krissy had an interview today, too, so pray for her too! I haven't yet heard from her how it went, but I am praying well...

One more thing, it SNOWED today!!! And a GOOD snow! The super pretty kind where it's not that cold outside and it actually covers the ground!!! You all know how I love snow!!!

Sleepie Husband

2008-12-08T18:46:00.000-08:00

Yesterday, Lance worked an early shift at FedEx (he works two jobs during the week, but generally has weekends off...so to speak...he works on freelance projects or helps me with things). But as you can tell, poor guy...he was exhausted. Note, the coffee beside him...guess it wasn't enough.

But I love that guy...he inspires me by how hard he works...and he really doesn't complain. I love how much I respect him...not because I have to, but because of who he is. Thanks for being so amazing, honey! I LOVE YOU!!!

Food...and Motivation...

2008-12-07T20:59:00.001-08:00

One of my favorite dinners to cook...italian chicken, mashed potatoes and steamed green beans (this one encourages me because I was EXHAUSTED when I made it and I was really excited to cook Lance "real" food...it had been awhile)

Brownies I made for another student program :)

Hmm...today I am feeling a bit overwhelmed by all the baking I have ahead (300 cookies for a student program). Now, don't get me wrong...I love to bake...but when pregnant I think I just wanna lay on my couch...especially now that I am in the third trimester. Wish I could say that more laying on the couch has happened...it definitely has not (but that's a good thing, I suppose...my house would be even more of a disaster and I would be even more behind than I am). So I decided to post some of my past baking/cooking...to motivate myself. :) Does anyone else ever feel like you are running in place...trying to keep up with everything? How do all of you women with lots of kids ever keep up? If you are a list-motivated type of person who likes to keep up with her internal deadlines, how did you free yourself from your internal expectations (I have this sneaking feeling I won't be able to get as much done after Sera is born...)? Encouragement or advice welcome...

First Snow

2008-12-07T10:14:00.000-08:00

Well, this picture is of our first snow...which was a bit ago...but it snowed again last night (barely), but it made me think of posting this one. Now, this is not the best picture...but I was SO excited that day that it snowed! For some reason, I LOVE snow! It might have something to do with the fact that I don't have to drive to work...but I think it's beautiful! If you are wondering, this is the view from outside my front door. (I also love all of the brick on campus.)

On a completely random note, I felt what I am pretty sure were hiccups for the first time this morning (Sera's hiccups, not mine...). :)

Funny

2008-12-06T21:26:00.000-08:00

Hahaha...Lance and I laughed so hard at this! I accidentally shrunk one of his sweaters. :( Sad, but funny...the sad part is that it was a sweater I bought him when we were dating...the funny part...well, just look...hahahah...

Nursery Ideas

2008-12-01T21:45:00.000-08:00

Bumper and Sheet

Blanket and Comforter (comforter reverses and other side is pink where the brown is)

Wall Art we decided to use instead of paint

Letters we want to use to spell out her name on the wall

Well, this is somewhat of an old post...I am doing a bit of catching up...but 2 weekends ago, Lance and I were finally able to get off campus to go to Babies-R-Us to look at nursery stuff to make the final decision about what we wanted to do with the nursery. We had been waiting to build the crib and changing table/dresser from my parents (they are AWESOME!) until we had decided about paint (which we didn't want to do until we decided on bedding, colors, etc.). It was SO fun to look at all the little girl stuff...it was the first time I had been there since we found out we were having a girl. So once we decided what we were going to do, I took some pictures of everything (sneakily). ;) Funny thing is, after all the debates about paint (lots of time looking at paint chips and having Lance play with colors on the computer), we decided not to paint...lol...go figure. :) But I am very excited about what we decided on...we both LOVE it (Lance being the artistic guy that he is...is a bit picky about what he likes)...we think it's modern without being too modern...girly without being over the top girly...and will transition with her until she is older. :) What do you think?

Happy Thanksgiving!

2008-11-28T08:20:00.001-08:00

The finished product! Including the sweet potatoes, green beans, and chicken (yes, chicken...that's what we wanted). ;) The glass you see has sparkling white grape juice...mmm...

Homemade Mashed Potatoes

Turkey Stuffing

Homemade Applesauce

Biscuits

Crustless Pumpkin Pie (perfect recipe if what you really love is the filling)

Brunch...scrambled eggs and...

Pancakes

Today was a day of cooking and hanging out with Lance...it was a very good day! :) He videotaped us, so that someday Sera can watch this and see her mommy pregnant. The best part of today was getting to be with Lance ALL day (he works a lot, so I cherished the time with him). We do wish we could have been in Ohio with family, but he works today (Friday), so we couldn't make the 6 hour trip for just one day off. We are driving there for the weekend, though, and are really, really looking forward to it. Happy Thanksgiving everyone! :)

Just a few of the things I am thankful for:
-God and the fact that he never leaves us or forsakes us
-my wonderful husband
-our daughter Seraphina and that she is healthy so far
-my family (all of you!) :)
-friends
-my job and Lance's jobs...and the people we work with
-our home

:) God has blessed us richly and we never want to take that for granted! :)

My Wonderful Sisters! :)

2008-11-17T15:23:00.000-08:00

The day...which started out not so well...was instantly brightened by a surprise package from my sisters Krissy and Ashlie! :) My sisters are so thoughtful...I REALLY appreciate them! :) They sent me a Ohio State pacifier, Ohio State sippy cup, 3 adorable bibs (my first girly gifts for Sera), and a super comfy maternity fleece (perfect for those days when you don't want a heavy jacket, but still need something...we have a lot of those in PA...). For some reason, their encouragement always seems to come at the perfect time! Thank you SO SO SO much, sisters! I LOVE YOU!!!

PS-Blogger is not being nice to me and won't let me post my pictures right now, but I promise I will post them as soon as it is kind to me...

Pray for Westmont

2008-11-14T18:23:00.000-08:00

Today I heard some very sad news...a Christian college in CA was very affected by the fires out there. For those of you who don't know, I live and work on campus as a Residence Director, so this hits quite close to home for me...not to mention, I have a very good friend who is an alumna of that institution. I was especially saddened to hear that one of the RDs lost his home. I ask you to join me in prayer for this school, their students, faculty, administrators, etc.

For more information on the fires, check out this link:
http://www.google.com/hostednews/ap/article/ALeqM5gwSSrT7-LciDlr1tYmyE9e19oX9QD94EP9300

Pretty Flowers

2008-11-12T20:40:00.000-08:00

This picture doesn't do the pretty "purpleness" justice...I LOVE purple! :)

Love my flowers!!! :)

Picture from another time Lance bought me flowers...just thought I'd include it too...'cause they are pretty! :)

The other day my wonderful husband brought these flowers home to surprise me! I love all the things he does to show me how he cares...all the cleaning, grocery shopping, listening, hugs and kisses...I could go on and on! Thanks, honey! I am better because of you! :)

Lance's Birthday

2008-11-02T13:24:00.000-08:00

My Super Cute Husband!

Lance's Cupcakes...He had to lift me up to take this picture...so those are his feet...hahaha! :)

This is a belated post...Lance's birthday was last Saturday...he turned 27! (Yes, that's right...I am three years older than him...) We had a nice, relaxing day! I baked him cupcakes on Friday night. Every year, I let him pick what kind of cake he wants, and this year, he requested vanilla cupcakes. I know it's cheesy, but I had fun writing the message on them. :) I also created a card for him with photos that I was really proud of (and he really liked). :) We enjoyed sleeping in on Saturday morning (we LOVE to sleep in...and are cherishing the moments that we can before Sera is born). Then we went shopping for some frames for his photography show this weekend. (He is the artist of the month at Cornerstone Coffeehouse.) Then we went out to dinner at Ceolta's, a nice Irish pub. We don't do it often, but we both absolutely LOVE eating out. We had intended to go to a movie after that, but we both just felt too tired, and so we decided that we would just rent some. We had fun eating gummies and watching movies with the couches pushed together so we can be close...yup, we are total cheeseballs...but I love it! I was thinking back to the weekend...just appreciating how laid back and fun Lance is. I love that we are more than just husband and wife...he really is my best friend. Thanks for being you, hubby...I LOVE YOU!!! :)

Cute Stuff

2008-11-01T22:14:00.000-07:00

Well, it's been awhile since my last entry...I kinda had an icky week last week. Starting Sunday night, I got no more than 3 hours sleep each night until Thursday...bluh! :( But I am catching up now, yeah! So far, 2 nights of better sleep...and here's to hoping it continues. :) Pray for me if you think of it...

Here are some pictures of cute little dresses that I used to wear when I was a baby...I really love that my mom saved these for my little girl to wear someday. I am such a sentimental person...and I can't wait to see our little Seraphina in her mommy's dresses. :) I love looking at them and dreaming of her...I can't wait to meet you, Sera! :) (For as much as I can't wait, her daddy is even more excited to meet her!)

Haircut and 22 Weeks Belly

2008-10-24T13:14:00.000-07:00

Bad Hair Shot, but decent belly shot (what is going on in my armpit? LOL)

That's my belly! :)

Try to ignore my messy room...

Yup...that's SHORT hair! :)

I hate taking these now, but I know that I will look back at them later and be glad I did...I already really like looking back at the ones from the past (and I hated taking those at the time), so here you go. :)

IT'S A GIRL!!!

2008-10-18T11:36:00.000-07:00

The little dress that I wore home from the hospital...I am SO excited that our precious Sera will get to wear it, too! Since it's going to be colder in March than it was in August when I was born, I will be adding little white tights and a white sweater. I love my mom for saving this stuff!!!

The rocking chair I had when I was a little girl...it has a music box that plays when you rock! I love imagining our little girl rocking in it someday. :)

Well, the day finally came, and now we know that we are expecting a precious little girl!!! We are SO excited! We had our ultrasound on Thursday and were SO excited to find out! All looks well and healthy with her...she is quite the little mover. The ultrasound tech kept saying how much she moved. :) (Last night I was actually able to feel her move from outside my belly for the first time...usually I can just feel it inside.) My due date was adjusted to March 8, also. :) If you are wondering, her name will be Seraphina Marie, and we will call her Sera for short. I have spent the past two days obsessing over little girl stuff on the internet...it's so fun to finally know. I am hoping to have ultrasound pictures to post later this weekend, if Lance gets time to post them. I know that every mother probably says this, but I think her profile is just beautiful. I can't wait to meet her...I have been daydreaming a lot about meeting her...wondering what she will be like. :) Her daddy is really, really excited, too! He was sure to let me know that she would be "daddy's girl." :)

Ramblings and Learning...

2008-10-09T19:27:00.000-07:00

My Primary Pregnancy Learning Resource :)

I wish I could say that I have read more of this book than I have...it's got some GREAT recipes, though! (The recipes are probably more helpful to first time mamas...they make small portions...perfect for two people...but probably not so helpful if you've got little ones underfoot...)

:) I got sleep last night...and I was thankful! :)

I was thinking today about all that I have yet to learn. I know so little, even just about pregnancy. I do enjoy the above book...it's helped me with lots of basics. To me, the learning feels both exciting and overwhelming...knowing more has always been exciting to me and knowing more about this amazing baby growing inside me is incredibly exciting...it's also overwhelming...the more I learn, the more I realize how little I know...I have always been the type of person who wants to be prepared. I make tons of lists, tend to take the safest route possible, and try to anticipate what is coming. But having a baby (which I have never done before)...well, there is just so much I can't know ahead of time and that I can't prepare for...It's probably good for me to be forced to give up some control...cause it forces me to depend more on God (and to be honest, that's not a strong point for me). Well, that's my rambling thought of the day...

Cranky Pants

2008-10-08T15:01:00.000-07:00

I am fighting being cranky today...so, that cold I hoped I wasn't getting...I have. And because I can't really take anything (yeah, Tylenol doesn't really compare to Nyquil), I wasn't able to sleep last night because of the drippy nose, sneezing, sinus pressure, sore throat, and earache...ugghhh...not fun...I don't think I realized before how much I would depend on Dayquil and Nyquil to help me keep up with my normal pace if I got sick...(which is a fair amount, for some reason). Anywho...I am whining...and I really need to quit...lol...

PS-I love my baby, though, and if feeling cruddy for a bit because I can't take medicine means a healthier baby, I am all for that. :) (Despite my whining...)

Memories

2008-10-07T14:53:00.000-07:00

I absolutely LOVE this! It helps to keep me on track with things I need to do, especially remembering things (which my forgetful pregnancy brain struggles to do these days). I really love the portion where I can journal about how I am feeling, what I am thinking, etc. It will be fun to look back at this one day...

Baby's First Memory Book...A Gift from Lisa (friend of the family)

Baby's First Photo Album...Also, Gift from Lisa :)

I was thinking today how quickly the time is going...I cannot believe I am almost halfway through this pregnancy. I want to savor every moment and enjoy every part of this experience, because I feel so blessed to be experiencing it. Unfortunately, time and energy to do things like blog, journal, take pictures, etc. seems to escape me more often than I want it to. (I can't imagine how much more I will feel that after the baby is born.) However, as I see the time slip away, I have become more motivated to record memories so that someday I can look back to this time...and maybe even show our child someday. (I am an extremely sentimental person...almost to a fault sometimes...)

On a side/sorta related note, my mom told me today that she had found a bunch of stuff (toys, stuff animals, dolls, etc.) from my childhood. I could have cried...I was so happy. It means so much to me that she saved them. Thanks, Mom! I love you! And Happy Birthday!

Sleepie...

2008-10-06T07:10:00.000-07:00

Ahh...pillow that I look forward to seeing every day...(It's the Boppy Total Body Pregnancy Pillow, if you are curious...)

Mmm...It's a brisk fall day and it seems that all I can think about is sleep...how I wish I could still be sleeping...how nice it would be to sleep right now...ah, sleep. Speaking of sleep, I am having trouble getting used to this whole sleeping on your side thing...I know that you are supposed to (it's better for me and baby), but my back just isn't used to it. My pregnancy pillow is a lifesaver, though. Several students I know well very, very graciously went together and I now have my wonderful pillow. I am addicted to that pillow. :) And right now wishing I was on it...

Feeling a little cranky too...'cause I now have the cold that Lance and several of the students I work with have. Poooo...Here's to praying this doesn't turn into an infection like last month...

I love my husband...

2008-10-05T12:19:00.000-07:00

Mmmm...Panera Bread...My FAVORITE meal from there (Sierra Turkey and Broccoli Cheese Soup)

LOL...

The Kettle Korn is my choice, if you are wondering...

My Super Cute Husband! :)

Okay, so I know I gushed about him in yesterday's post, but I had to share some more, because he brought me home a nice little surprise last night. :) He brought home my favorite meal from Panera Bread, a baby movie, and popcorn. A perfect, relaxing date night. :) I wasn't expecting that at all because #1. He's sick and feeling miserable #2. He is working every single day this week (both weekend days) and tired and drained. I had planned to cook for him and let him rest without pressuring him to spend time with me. But he is AMAZING and planned a fun little night for us! Okay, I promise...I will not make you sick with my gushing anymore. :) For now at least...

More Fun and Random Thoughts :)

2008-10-04T13:56:00.001-07:00

Magazines, Coupons, and Fun Stuff...

Just One of the Prenatals Packets that I am Completely Stocked Up In! :)

Super Cute Duckie Outfit! :)

Changing Pad :)

More fun stuff that my Aunt Heather and family gave me! Like I wrote yesterday...we are so blessed! :) She works in an office and was able to stock me completely in prenatals...those aren't cheap, so Lance and I really appreciate it! Plus, they are the ones with DHA...good for baby!

As for an update, I think the baby recently had a little growth spurt...my skin feels like it's being stretched apart and I could swear my belly got bigger fast. I thought that maybe I was imagining this, especially after Lance was like, "It doesn't look any different to me." However, two of my co-workers commented that it seems to have "popped" more recently, which made me feel not so crazy. :) It's also kicking now...not terribly hard, but definitely kicks. (It actually just kicked...how random...) I can't wait for it to kick hard enough for Lance to feel it. His eyes just light up when I tell him I can feel a kick or feel it moving...I can't wait to see his face when he feels it for the first time. I love how involved and interested he is. He loves to know everything that I am feeling and thinking about this whole process. He's also super, super understanding and caring about this whole process. He never complains about the fact that the housework doesn't get done as fast...instead, he just starts cleaning for me when he sees a mess. He also has a wonderful habit of taking my grocery list to work and coming home after work with everything on the list. All this while he is working two jobs...one from 8AM-4PM and another from 5-10PM. Yeah, I'm spoiled...

But I LOVE him!!! :)

Gifts from Home :)

2008-10-03T12:56:00.000-07:00

I LOVE Burt's Bees! I keep smelling this lotion and it makes me so excited for that precious baby smell! Does that sound weird? I just really love the way clean babies smell.

Music for Baby...Lance loves this...he's a musician himself and has gotten me into the habit of falling asleep to classical music and/or nature sounds...so he was so excited to receive music for our baby to listen and sleep to. :)

The picture doesn't really do this outfit justice...it's even more ADORABLE in person! It's a soft yellow with a white duck on the cardigan (LOVE DUCKS). So, so cute!

Super cute Carter's outfit! Don't you love how the ABC's spell out "I Love You"?

Black Maternity Shirt that I am in LOVE with! I have decided that black and stretchy cotton are my best friends during pregnant. I think between this shirt and my black dress...I would wear these every day if I could. (Mom, you ROCK!) I am fairly proud of this picture too...I am not that creative and it took me a really long time to figure out a way to take a picture of myself that didn't show the flash in the mirror. What I did was to set the camera on my dresser and use the self timer, then use the mirror to align myself properly (reflection viewfinder was in mirror). It took a few tries, but this one is half decent...Oh, and this is the first day of my 19th week, if you are wondering how far along I am in this picture.

Super Precious Soft Little Socks! I LOVE baby feet! I can't wait to see little baby feet in there...

Flannel Receiving Blankets...Mmm....Soft....

Super, super soft blanket...I am pretty sure that I am going to do my nursery with this as the theme/inspiration. What do you think?

Teething rings/toys...ahh, I am imagining little baby tooth grins...so fun!

Baby's First Rubber Duckie! I love, love, love ducks, so I was so excited about this one! :)

A few weekends ago (man, how time flies), Lance and I went home to visit my family and celebrate my niece's second birthday. Lance (being busy working two jobs) still hasn't given me the pictures of Hannah's birthday to post, but I thought I would post some of the fun pictures of gifts from Mom, Ashlie, and Krissy for the baby. We are SO, SO blessed with all that our family does for us and the baby to come. I took an inventory of all that I already have last weekend and I was so amazed at all that has been given to us for this baby. I feel so humbled and thankful for all the ways our family is blessed and taken care of. :) (It rocks my world to think of us as a little family...me, Lance, and baby.)

PS-I can't wait until October 16 to find out if this is a little Liam Matthew or Seraphina Marie, so I can stop just calling it baby. :)

Today...Random Thoughts...

2008-09-29T18:03:00.000-07:00

On a very, very fun note...my sister redesigned my blog, and I LOVE IT!!!! LOVE IT!!!! It matches a baby blanket they got me which I am theming my nursery around...LOVE IT!!! I miss my family a lot...a lot...sometimes I find myself dreaming that maybe in 2 years when Lance graduates school, we will be able to move back to Ohio. Of course, I don't let myself think of it too much because it might not happen and the reality is that we will move wherever Lance gets the best job. Just sometimes I dream about it...it's not so much that I really love the state of Ohio, 'cause to be honest, PA has got the state beat in a million ways...but just that I miss family. And 6+ hours away is a long trip...anyways, regardless, I cherish the time I have with them and try to remind myself that some people get to see their families much, much less. Really, I cannot complain...I have it very good... :)

On another random note, I am really struggling with having to slow down because my energy level is so much lower and I can't depend on caffeine. I just feel like I am lazy, even when I know I am not being rational...(when I have just worked a 10 hour day)...I think my mind is always full of all that needs to be done and could be done...

Hmmm...

Doctor's Visit and Midwife Question

2008-09-26T17:42:00.000-07:00

Yeah for no more peeing on command!

I love free magazines! :)

Today I had a doctor's appointment...it's funny...normally I HATE going to the doctor and will do anything (including denying that I am sick when I am...ask my husband) to avoid going to the doctor. But these appointments...I REALLY look forward to. Granted, I am still not a huge fan of doctors...and maybe it has something to do with the free baby magazines I get when I go there (this time I walked out with a copy of Fit Pregnancy, American Baby, BabyTalk, and another month by month guide book)...and maybe it's that I get to spend undivided time with Lance...but still, overall, it's a fun day! :) In fact, I am usually a little sad that they are so short. This time I learned that I could bring a urine sample with me, rather than having to do it there. YEAH! (minus the icky part of transporting it with me...ick...ick...ick...) But, this probably doesn't seem like a big deal unless you know me...and then you would know that I have doctor's office pee fright. (Bad experience in Junior High...first physical...didn't know peeing in a cup would be required...nurse says loudly enough for ENTIRE waiting room to hear, "Having trouble piddling?"...traumatizing for a junior high girl...'nuff said...I haven't been able to pee well on command since...) That aside, it was a fairly routine visit. He said my uterus had reached the top of my belly button (cool!) and we got to hear the baby's heartbeat again (it wasn't as loud this time and he didn't let us listen as long, so that was a bummer, but I still love listening to it). He said it sounded like a gallup and that they say that baby boy hearts sound like a gallup and that baby girl hearts sound like a washing machine...funny since if I had to predict, I would predict that this is a boy. Of course, he said that's in no way scientific. I guess I will find out in about 3 weeks...our 20 week ultrasound is October 16 at 11AM. I CAN'T WAIT! I am excited to find out if it's a boy or girl...but I am even more excited just to see our baby again! :)

So, I end with a question...the more I experience doctors...it makes me consider switching to a midwife (my practice offers both)...does anyone have any thoughts or experience with this?

Mmmm...Belly Pictures

2008-09-11T15:27:00.001-07:00

Well, here you go...here are some more...Lance took these, so they are better than what I usually post. I am starting to feel like this whole thing is more real...and it feels like the time is going both too quickly and too slowly...I want it to be here, but then I want to enjoy being pregnant, because I am not going to be pregnant a lot (thinking probably only 2 kids).

There has been an extreme shortage of posts on my part...I am having a hard time balancing my job and the tiredness of being pregnant. While I am probably more organized than I have ever been, I am also just so much more drained than I have ever been. Like right now...I wish I could sleep...a lot...mmm...sleep...mmm...sleep...lol. It's funny how much more appealing sleep sounds when you don't drink large amounts of coffee like I used to.

Well, I never know quite how to end these things, so I guess that's all. :)

Photo Shoot Part 1

2008-09-04T14:06:00.000-07:00

Taking a picture of myself...love this shirt...so comfy and cute!Black Dress that I feel pretty in! :)

My belly! :)

So, today, Lance and I had some fun taking pictures of me and my belly. Most of them are on his camera (my camera really doesn't take great pictures). He didn't get them loaded for me them yet (so there will be a part 2 with much better pictures), but here are some of the pictures from my camera. I am actually getting a new camera (my 30th birthday present from Lance), but I don't have it yet because I am still indecisive about what I want...(not a big surprise if you know me...). Anyway, yesterday, my sister Ashlie sent me some REALLY cute new clothes! So we decided to take some pictures of me in them...I love the new clothes! Thank you SO much, Ashlie! I was SO excited, because being pregnant, you can kinda feel like you are wearing the same thing all the time...so 2 new options is WONDERFUL!!! Thanks for making me feel so pretty, Ashlie! :)

12 Weeks Belly Pic

2008-08-18T18:35:00.001-07:00

Ashlie and Hannah's Visit

2008-08-02T11:08:00.000-07:00

Hannah on the Farmer's Market Day...Look at the "dickens"!

Strawberry Jello Cake I Made to Celebrate Ashlie's BirthdayHannah in the Car on the Hershey Day

Hannah Enjoying Dessert at Issac's

So...I am a little behind on my posting, but I am trying to catch up...last week, my sister and my niece came to visit me! It was SO amazing and I miss them SO much! On Tuesday, we went shopping at Kohl's...which was fun...I especially loved watching Hannah pretend to shop (she imitates her mommy and it is super cute. On Wednesday, we went to Hershey's Chocolate World and did a ride/tour that is for kids. I think Hannah was a little scared of it at first (it's kinda loud and a bit overstimulating), but she seemed to enjoy it a bit more by the end. There are singing cows (she calls them "boos") so we talked about the "boos'" house after the tour, which was fun. Then we went to Hershey Outlets. I had never been...and I really liked it. I especially love going into the kid stores...thankfully, Ashlie does too. Then, on Thursday we went to this place in Harrisburg in the Whitaker Center for kids. That was my favorite day, by far. I LOVED watching Hannah play...she seemed to be having a lot of fun. On Friday, I had my doctor's appointment and we just hung out in the evening. Then, on Saturday, we went to a farmer's market. There were some farm animals, so we took Hannah around to see them. I think she really liked the chickens...which she calls "dickens". ADORABLE! It was so, so fun to have them here. I loved waking up to Hannah's cuteness and just being able to talk to Ashlie all day. I can't wait until September when I can see my whole family!

PS-Uncle Lance "Unky" misses Hannah a lot, too...he told me when she left that it was boring here without her. He LOVES playing with her! He told me that she was a lot of fun...so cute!

Happy Early Birthday! (Part Two)

2008-08-01T08:26:00.000-07:00

Cute Black Maternity PantsAdorable Maternity Shirt

Another Adorable Maternity Shirt

Okay, so here are the pictures from the maternity clothes that my parents got me for my birthday. It's nice because these are clothes that I could wear to work and church. Both of the tops match the black pants and are super cute! I am still amazed at how cute they make maternity clothes. I really don't know why people dread wearing them. The ones I have been gifted are cuter than my regular clothes. :) They also sent yummy zucchini bread (I love zucchini bread, but I never have the patience to make it myself, so I really appreciate it when others make it...plus, my mom's is the best.) and a bunch of veggies and potatoes from the garden. I LOVE stuff fresh from the garden! I never realized how much I would miss it until I moved away. Speaking of parents, I was thinking yesterday how much I appreciate my parents. They have been SO super supportive of Lance and I. Their encouragement really means the world to us. It's funny...no matter how old you are, you still need your parents...in different ways than when you were younger, of course. When I think of what a good job my parents did raising me, I only hope I can do half as well as them in raising my child.

Happy Early Birthday! (Part One)

2008-07-31T14:49:00.000-07:00

Super Soft Gray Wrap Shirt (Lance LOVES this shirt! I do too!)Adorable Soft Pink Shirt (So Comfy and Cute!)

Maternity Jeans (You can't even tell they are when you put a shirt on...they look like regular jeans...only comfier)

Mmmm...I smell nice!

Baby Wrap Shirts :)

So my sister brought me my birthday presents early when she came to visit last week (I miss her so much already...). My birthday's actually on August 18...so it's fun to start the birthday celebrating early. :) She got me wonderful stuff...these cute little shirts for the baby, maternity clothes (YEAH!) and Bath and Body Works stuff! Thanks SO much, Ashlie! Of course, anything for the baby is fun...these shirts are good for when the baby's belly button is healing so it won't rub. Plus, they are cute! :) And I love the maternity clothes (they are so soft and comfy)! I know that some people aren't excited to wear maternity clothes, but I am. I can't wait for my belly to "pop". I also really appreciate the lotions and shower gel because I never buy that stuff for myself...it is such a nice treat!

Krissy, You Rock!

2008-07-28T08:53:00.000-07:00

Adorable Onesie...This one is really funny, because my husband and I are notorious "night owls"...which actually should come in handy when getting up in the middle of the night for the baby. :)
Really Cute Little Romper :)

Another Cute Romper...This one says, "Little Monkey"! :)

Cute Onesie

Another Cute Onesie...That spot you see is just water...no worries...

This little sleeper is just precious...check out the feet and pockets!

Love this onesie! I have always loved school and learning...so I am hoping to pass that love of learning on to this child. :)

Tiny Little Adorable Washclothes

This one is my favorite...little ducky robe that is ADORABLE! Can you tell I like ducks? ;)

Cute Onesie

Cute Onesie (with ducks!)

Cute Onesie...This one says, "I love you" up close...I tried to take an up close pic, but I couldn't get it to be clear.

So, this child of mine, which is now a mere 8 weeks and 4 days old, is quite spoiled. Last week, my sister Ashlie came to visit and she brought with her some gifts from my sister Krissy for the baby (she brought other gifts, too...which I am still in the process of taking pictures of and blogging about). But the gifts from Krissy were so adorable...and there are so many of them! Thank you SO much, Krissy! You ROCK! I really can't wait to see the new baby in them! Speaking of that, I did something really funny...and a bit embarrassing...but I am going to share, regardless. My wonderful mom sent me all this cool stuff from when I was a kid, including a "real baby" doll that I had. Well, needless to say, I thought it would be fun to try all of the baby clothes on the doll to see what they looked like. So, Krissy, they look even cuter on! :) Wow, I am a big dork...hahaha...

Finding Out I Was Pregnant

2008-07-22T07:19:00.000-07:00

Lance...Shocked and Not Quite Awake :)

Me on the Phone SO EXCITED Telling My Family!

Belly the Day I Found Out (About 4-5 weeks...I think...)

So although it's been awhile, I thought I would post some pictures and tell the story of finding out that I was pregnant. Well, I don't really keep good track of things from month to month, but it seemed like I was kind of late and whenever I think I might be late, I start getting anxious and wondering...so I test...and up until now, it's always been negative. Well, I had told myself I would wait to test until July 1st, so then I would be completely sure that I was late. As usual for me, I got impatient (imagine that), and decided to test on the morning of June 24 (thinking that I was just doing this to prove to myself that I was not pregnant). Imagine my shock when I saw that second line developing! I screamed for my husband to come. (Funny thing is, when I yelled his name, he thought I probably just needed more toilet paper...hahaha...) When I told him, he promptly looked at it and told me that i must have taken it wrong. When I explained that I had followed the directions exactly, we were both in shock...and still wondering if was real. Shock mixed with excitement and I started calling my family. I know that different people see telling people differently, but I feel really close to my family and couldn't wait to tell them. They were really excited for us, which added to our excitement. While excited, we were still in shock for a few days. We decided to test again in another week, just to be sure. I took two tests, and of course, they were still positive. Needless to say, the shock has mostly worn off, and now we are just excited. :) And that's my story...

Ashlie's Birthday

2008-07-20T20:51:00.000-07:00

Ashlie and Hannah on a Trip to the Mall...Hannah Was SO Little Then...Time Flies!

Ashlie Helping Her Daughter, Hannah, Open Birthday Presents at Hannah's First Birthday Party
Isn't she pretty...I love my sister's smile! (I have always thought she had a model-type smile :)

Well, it's been awhile since I have posted...and my computer hasn't let me post for awhile since I have been trying...wireless fades in and out, but I thought I'd give it a whirl and catch up on some posting.

So this post was supposed to be on July 18, but it's better late than never...I thought I'd post a few pictures of my sister Ashlie in honor of her 28th birthday! Ashlie is my sister who is 2 years younger than me...I love having a sister so close in age to me...she is more than a sister; she's a wonderful friend! Ashlie, thanks for being you! I can't wait to see you soon!!!

To read more about Ashlie, check out her link on the side...Hannahbananna...

Tawny's Wedding

2008-07-09T08:52:00.000-07:00

The Bride and Groom

Lance and I Dancing :)

I thought it would be fun to post some of the pictures from Tawny and Paul's wedding (July 5th). Tawny was a RA (Resident Assistant) for me in Bittner my first year working at Messiah College and then worked as my ARD (Assistant Residence Director) in Mellinger last year. Her wedding was beautiful...and it was a lot of fun because our table was all current and former Bittner/Mellinger RAs. Enjoy the pictures! :)

Lately...

2008-07-04T10:04:00.000-07:00

Top of a Cute Sleeper

Cute Little Animals Sleeper

Cute Little Polka Dot Sleeper

Hmmm...today is a day I am wishing for coffee...haha...but oh well, I am consoling myself with apricot jello. :) Not too much to update on...Lance started to rearrange the back room to make room for the baby's room. To be honest, I am surprised he is doing it so soon. But he seems excited...which makes me happy! We discussed where all the furniture would go and how crazy and exciting it is that in March there will be a baby in that room. :) I think it keeps hitting me in waves how much life is going to change...that's not a bad thing of course, but I am glad that I have the space in my life over the summer to process all of this. On the fun side of things, I thought I would post some pictures of the remaining original baby outfits that I had saved. This Fourth of July weekend is a busy one...today one my former RAs is flying in from Maine to stay with Lance and I. One of my other former RAs is getting married this weekend, so we will be going to her wedding tomorrow. But tonight Nicole (RA from Maine) will have dinner with us and possibly we will go to some fireworks...depending on time and how tired we both are. Then Tawny's wedding is Saturday...that should be a fun time! :) That night, several of my former female RAs are coming over to spend the night...a sleepover of sorts. We plan to hang out then some Sunday...it should be a fun time! :) Okay, I should probably stop blogging and get to doing some of the things I need to get done today...hahaha...

Christmas in July, Part Two

2008-07-02T11:04:00.001-07:00

Cute Maternity Shirt...SO My Style :)Soft Long Black Maternity Sweater

Soft Long Red Maternity Sweater

So, here are pictures of the cute maternity clothes they sent me. :) Thanks again, you guys! These are my first maternity clothes!!! :) SO exciting!

A little about how I am doing...still tired...but not bad...and a little nauseous, but not bad. I have found that ginger beer (don't worry...it's NOT beer) really helps with the nausea. Basically, if you have never heard of it, it is an all natural ginger ale with lots of real ginger in it. It's got a bit of a bite and it takes a bit of getting used to, but it's good. :)