The Pokorny Family

Mama Drama

2012-02-15T13:06:00.002-06:00

I'll post about our Valentine's Day soon, but last night we had a little unexpected trip to L&D. Chad and I were at dinner when I started feeling a lot of braxton hicks. I've been feeling them for several weeks, but I was having a TON. As we were finishing up dessert, I finally started timing them, and they were coming on every 3 minutes. We got home and my parents were watching Graham for us, so we told them what was going on and I rested on the couch drinking lots of water while they stayed to make sure the contratctions subsided.

After a full hour had passed of me timing contractions, they were getting more intense and I started to feel a lot of pressure with each one. They were super uncomfortable and getting painful, so we decided I should call the on-call doctor and head to the hospital. Thank goodness my parents were there, so they just stayed with Graham and put him to bed while we headed to L&D.

Once we arrived and were set up in a triage room, I was hooked up to a monitor, and it showed I was contracting. She did a fetal fibronectin test (which came back negative) and checked my cervix. I was a tiny bit dialated and my cervix is thin and she could feel Claire's head but it isn't engaged. She hooked me up to an IV to get some fluids in me and help stop the contractions. She also put me on bed rest until I can see my doctor in the morning. We got home around 2 a.m. and I felt some more contractions on the way home but they had slowed down. I wasn't dehydrated and there were no recent... ahem..."activities" that would have made me contract, so I guess it's a mystery as to why it happened.

My mom is hanging out with me and Graham today since I'm not supposed to do any lifting. Thank goodness for Mommas!! :) I'll find out more in the morning, but today I'm just taking it easy and hoping Claire stays put for a few more weeks!!

34 Weeks

2012-02-13T20:16:00.000-06:00

How Far Along: 34 Weeks... Can't believe in 3 weeks time I will be "Full Term"!!!

Size of baby: A durian fruit 4.2 pounds to 5.8 pounds and measures about 17.2 to 18.7 inches.

Total Weight Gain: 146.4; 21 pounds gained

Maternity Clothes:

Movement: Hiccups, kicks, rolls, lots of movement.

Sleep:Sleeping good still.

What I miss: Being comfortable!! Doesn't matter if I'm sitting, standing or walking, I am in some sort of discomfort these days. I am feeling a ton of pressure, and very sore. Hope all this means she will be a little early and a quick labor!

Cravings: Cereal!

Symptoms: Swelling has been better, but the pressure is insane. So are the braxton hicks.

Best Moment This Week: The baby shower!!!

What I'm looking forward to: A Valentine's Day date with my hubby, getting the rest of the essentials for Claire and finally finishing the nursery!!

Milestones: She's recognizing and reacting to simple songs, if you're singing them. (If you're not, start! She may find them soothing after birth.) She's also urinating about a pint a day.

Showered With Love

2012-02-13T12:46:00.002-06:00

Saturday morning my wonderful sister, mom, mother-in-law, Aunt Patti, and friend Traci threw a beautiful baby shower for Baby Claire and I!!! We had it at our home because my sister and Aunt live out of town and my parents and Chad's paretns are in the process of remodeling. It was so nice not having to haul all of the gifts home, though! :)

The adorable invitations:

Adorable diaper wreath made by Traci's sister:

Love all the details!!!

Me and Aunt Mer Mer!!

Lindsay, Ashley and I

Nina, Jessica and Traci

Aunt Pam (who drove all the way from Dallas!!!) and Maw

Gamme and Aunt Cecilia

Mrs. Khazzoum, Mrs. Blackman and my Aunt Patti

The delicious cupcakes!!!

Terah and I

Game time! This was so fun, Traci had me fill out a piece of paper with 2 columns, one for me and one for Chad. It had a list of characteristics like (sense of humor, hair, legs, smile, etc.) and I had to pick which one I'd want Claire to take after. Who ever had the closest answers to mine won a prize. There was a tie, so the tie breaker was "What's Claire's middle name?" So fun! By the way, I may have looked at the papers after the shower and most people said Claire should have her daddy's hair, my sense of humor and Chad's intelligence, HA! I would have to agree with everything but the hair!! ;)

The gorgeous afgan knitted by Mrs. Schindewolf (Traci's mother-in-law) SOOO SWEET!!!!

Claire's first monogrammed onesie!!!

Moby wrap!

Sit to Stand Acitivity walker, Graham is already trying to take over his sissy's toys! ;)

"Big Brother" "Little Sister" shirts!!! Love!!!

And the City Mini Double Stroller!!!!!! SOOOO exctied about this!!!! Given generously by our parents, my sister, and Aunt Patti!!! We are so blesseed!!!

Jaclyn and I

Me with the Grandmothers!

The hostesses and I!

Graham wanted to get in on the picture action :)

"CHEESE!!!!!"

Over the pictures now....

My Momma, Mer and Me

We are SO fortunate and blessed to have so many people in our life that love us and our babies. It's so humbling and wonderful to be in a room full of people there to celebrate your new baby. We are SO SO grateful for all the generous gifts we were given and to the hostesses for offering to throw us a second baby shower for our daughter!!!!

Weekly Dinner Menu {A Little Late!}

2012-02-09T16:46:00.002-06:00

Can you tell I'm 8 months pregnant??? I am getting lazy over here. My energy level is tanking and my brain is on auto pilot. Poor Chad didn't have pants to wear to work for part of this week because I couldn't seem to remember to get them from the cleaners! I jumped out of bed and ran to the cleaners this morning at 6:45 so the poor guy wouldn't have to wear another pair of old pants to work today. Anyway, I think this week we've made some real headway on the nursery for Little Miss! I'm in kind of a rut with her room, but my sweet friend Lindsay helped me out today and we picked up some cute things at Hobby Lobby. I feel a little bit better about it, but I still need to get several things nailed down and finished. Graham's nursery was done at this point!!! Anyway, even with all my scatter-brainedness, I've still been managing to get food on the table, somehow...

MONDAY: We had to go to the mall in the evening, so we ate dinner at the food court

TUESDAY: Tater Tot Casserole (this was a hit with both Chad and Graham and easy to make!)

WEDNESDAY: Ranch House Crock Pot Pork Chops with Parmesean mashed potatoes YUMM!!! This was delicious!!! The pork chops had a great flavor and the potatoes were soo good. I served it with a romain lettuce salad.

THURSDAY: Grilled Chicken and Pineapple Quesadillas I'll probably serve this with rice

FRIDAY: Frozen Pizza

SATURDAY: My sister will be in town for my baby shower, so we'll probably go out to eat with them

SUNDAY: Crockpot Tortilla Soup

33 Weeks and a Check-Up

2012-02-06T14:30:00.002-06:00

Today I had a check up for Miss Claire Addison. She is doing great! Her heartbeat was in the 140's, she is head down and measuring right on track. My blood pressure looked great, no protein in my urine and my doctor thinks she will be around 7 pounds at birth. I go back in 3 weeks, which is when she will start to check if I'm dialated and effaced. After that, I will go every week until I deliver! It's really coming down to the wire now, and I'm getting so excited. I keep picturing her delivery and the days following. I know a lot of people hate staying in the hospital, but Chad and I both kind of like it. It's fun getting to rest and have visitors come meet your baby and just ease into your new life. It may be different this time, with one kid at home. I'm going to miss Graham and worry about him, but I can't wait for him to meet his sister.

How Far Along: 33 Weeks

Size of baby: A honeydew 17.2-18.7 inches and 4.2-5.8 pounds

Total Weight Gain: 145.3 up at about 20 pounds.

Maternity Clothes: I got some pj's this past week and they are sooo much more comfortable. I need to go get my outfit for my babyshower this weekend!

Movement: Hiccups, kicks, rolls, lots of movement.

Sleep:Sleeping good. Chad has been a super nice hubby and been rubbing my back before bed every night. It's definitely helping me go to sleep and stay asleep!

What I miss: Doing anything with ease! Oh yeah, and I'm starting to have that pregnancy waddle. It looks cute on other pregnant women, but I just feel huge and uncomfortable, ha!

Cravings: Nothing specific.

Symptoms: Same as last week: Some heartburn in the evenings, linea nigra is getting darker, and I'm starting to have some mild swelling in the evenings. Nothing like I had with Graham, but I think my feet and ankles look slightly swollen and my wedding ring is a little harder to take off at night. Also, still having braxton hicks. Also, I've been seeing some flashes of light this weekend a couple of times. My doctor said it's normal and my blood pressure looks great, so nothing to be concerned about.

Best Moment This Week: Chad finished painting the nursery and we set up the crib! Going to get several more things done this week, hopefully.

Best Comment of the Week: Hearing the Claire is head down, measuring right on track and everything looks great! :)

What I'm looking forward to: My baby shower, finishing up the nursery (hopefully this weekend we will be able to get a lot done), painting her rocking chair and touring the hospital.

Milestones: She's keeping her eyes open while awake. She's also starting to coordinate breathing with sucking and swallowing. Her bones are hardening. And she's going through (more) major brain development -- that's one smart baby!

11 Things

2012-02-01T10:24:00.021-06:00

I saw this on another blog I read Our Happily Ever Afters and thought it was fun!! I love learning more about the women behind the blogs I read. Join in if you want to! Would love to read your "11 Things" :)
11 Random Things About Myself:

1. I have to make the bed every morning. I read once that if you make the bed every morning, at least you know one thing has gone right that day! So now my day just doesn't feel right if the bed isn't made.

2. I never played with firecrackers or sparklers as a kid. Product of being the daughter of a Fire Captain/ Insurance Agent/ former paramedic I guess! :)

3. My favorite subject has always been Language Arts and History. If there was an essay test, I would always ace it.

4. I didn't know how/ never had ran a dishwasher until I was in college!! Can you say spoiled?!

5. I must put on chapstick before I go to bed or I have a hard time falling asleep.

6. Until I was 21 I never weighed over 105 pounds.

7. I was hospitalized for several days when I was 20 because of a super rare condition- a total fluke considering I had absolutely no risk factors, called pneumomediastynum The cause ended up being coughing too hard when I had bronchitis and tearing a small hole in my lung. It resolved itself within a few days of me being on oxygen.

8. I only have 1 living grandparent. My Grandaddy (Mom's dad) who lives in an assisted living facility near Austin and has alzheimers. My Mawmaw died in February of 2009 of complications from strokes and my Mom's mom (Gigi) died 3 weeks before I was born from lymphoma. My Pawpaw (Dad's Dad) died a few years before I was born of brain cancer. I am so thankful Graham has 4 grandparents who all live close by, are in great health and he gets to see all the time. He even has 4 great-granparents!! 3 of which are in good health and live close by.

9. Tornados have always fascinated me, and I want to see one in person some day (from a safe distance of course :))

10. I used to love watching scary movies when I was younger, and now I can't stand them.

11. 3 of my most favorite things to do are: going to dinner, going to the movies, and getting mani/pedi's.

11 Questions to Answer:

1. What is your guilty pleasure TV show?
Definitely Young and the Restless. Chad can't stand that I watch this, but I love it. My parents watch it too, so when we all start talking about it, Chad loses it, ha!

2. Name one song that you love to jam out to that is totally embarrassing.
I don't really have one song in particular, but I love country music and when Graham and I are on walks, and I have my iPhone on pandora and turned up, I always get embarrassed and turn it down to really quiet when we pass someone on the street. Not sure why??

3.Where do you want to send your kids to school? Public/Private/Homeschool?
I would love to send them to a good, Christian private school, but I'm sure we'll probably end up sending them to a highly rated public school. By the time Graham starts kindergarten we will probably be in a bigger house and picked the best school district around to send them to.

4. One food you will never grow tired of?
Hmm, this is a tough one. I love so many different kinds of foods and it all depends on my mood. Probably mexican food. Particularly chips and queso.

5. What is your favorite Pinterest search?
I am so addicted. I love them all. Home decor, recipes, neat DIY/organizational/cleaning ideas I would never think of, nurseries, funny stuff, holiday decor, I love it all!!!

6. Did you order girl scout cookies? If so, what kind?
We haven't ordered any this year, I was just telling Chad we needed to the other day. I seriously like them all. Thin mints put in the freezer are a must!

7. What color do you decorate with most?
A light seafoamy blue green.

8. Which store is a guilty pleasure?
Marshalls! Love their home decor, and I always find super cute clothes and shoes.

9. What are your favorite baby names?
Obviously Graham and Claire :) But I also love Asher, Emmeline, Luke, Cora (would never work with our last name) Belle, Jane and Faith

10. What is your dream home vision?
I would love to live in a old but fully restored plantation-style house, with a huge wrap around front porch, plenty of large, old oak trees, 2 stories, gorgeous gouremet kitchen with white cabinets, and wood floors throughout. Pretty much your standard Southern dream home.

11. Is your current job your dream job?
Yes, I always wanted to be a stay-at-home mom. I love everything about it. I never had any big career aspirations, so I don't feel like I'm missing out on anything or wasting a degree by staying home. I do wonder what I'll do when all my kids are in school though. I also wish I had a degree sometimes, so I would have something to fall back on if I did need to get a job for some unexpected reason.

Weekend Rundown

2012-01-31T10:59:00.000-06:00

Friday evening we did a little furniture shopping. We've been wanting a new kitchen table for awhile. The one we have now I got about 5 years ago when I moved into my first apartment and it's just time to replace it. Luckily, we found one at Ashley furniture for a super reasonable price. We love it and think it will be perfect for us right now!

Our new table, I love the chairs!

Saturday morning I went to a brunch shower for one of my sweet friends, Suzi who is due with her first daughter only 4 days after me! Can't wait until these girls arrive!! :) The shower was so adorable and the food was delicious. After I got home, we decided to go buy the table we found and it will be delivered this Saturday! :)

That night we went out to dinner while my parents babysat Graham. Sunday we went to Chad's parents house for a little bit to visit. They are doing a bunch of remodeling this week, so we got to see everything they have planned. It should all be done this week, and I can't wait to see it all finished! After we left, we picked up a few groceries and then headed home to put Graham down for a nap. This kid has had the hardest time sleeping lately. I think I may try to see if a night light helps him tonight. Not sure if it's teething, separataion anxiety, bad dreams or what, but I am praying we figure it out and it gets better before Claire gets here!!!

Mimi, Papa, Graham and their other babies Chloe and Ty

Yesterday, we went to Traci's house and Graham and Tripp played while we visited. Those two are so cute together! They play so well together and have so much fun and even give eachother hugs when we leave!! After we left, Graham and ate some lunch at Chick-fil-A. Today we are having some friends over for a playdate. Then tonight Chad has to work late, and so does my Dad so me and Graham will probably eat dinner with Mimi. Thursday we're having Chad's brother David and his wife Kara over for dinner and then this weekend we have a birthday party, superbowl party and plans to work on Claire's nursery!

Graham munching on some fries at Chick-fil-A :)

Weekly Dinner Menu

2012-01-30T10:00:00.001-06:00

MONDAY: Last night I made a new recipe, crock-pot mac n' cheese and it turned out amazing!!! We had it with a store-bought rotisserie chicken (love those) and steamed brocolli. We have a LOT of leftovers, so we'll be eating that again tonight. The recipe for the mac n' cheese is HERE, super easy! I used about 3/4 of a package of an italian blend cheese (it's all I had left, and it was plenty), and added in plenty of freshly ground pepper, a generous dose of chili powder and dried oregeno. I also added some italian bread crumbs on top that I had sauteed in olive oil just before serving. I cooked the mac n' cheese on high for about 1.5 hours, because I started it late, and it turned out perfect. Just make sure to check if the middle is set. You'll be able to tell if it's done. Once I turned it on Keep Warm, thickened up a little more also.

TUESDAY: Dinner with my Mom

WEDNESDAY: Steak, Crash Hot Potatoes, and Salad

THURSDAY: Three Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta Bake I think I'm going to substitute the chicken for shrimp this time. Cheddar Biscuits and Salad

FRIDAY: Parmesean Tilapia this is a new recipe too, green beans and rice

SATURDAY: I think we might be going on a date night! :)

SUNDAY: Lunch: Frozen Pizza
Dinner: Slow Cooker Salsa Chicken

32 Weeks- 8 Months Pregnant!!

2012-01-30T08:11:00.001-06:00

How Far Along: 32 Weeks

Size of baby: Still a Squash (Not the yellow kind, but the orange pumpkin-looking kind) about 18.9 inches and nearly 4 pounds!!

Total Weight Gain: 143.3 up at about 18 pounds.

Maternity Clothes: I really need to go get some comfier maternity pj's. I only have 2 pairs of maternity lounge pants,and 1 maternity nightgown, also needing some new nursing bras and sleeping bras.

Movement: So, not sure if this means Claire has switched positions, but I have been feeling her waaaay over to my right side. Like really far over on my side nearing my back! Maybe its an arm or leg stretching, or maybe she is in a more sideways position?

Sleep: I finally had a good nights sleep last night, so that was great. Graham has been waking up the past couple of nights and not been able to settle back down. He finally slept all night last night, so I feel a lot better today. Chad was sweet and I got to nap a few times this weekend, but for some reason napping is hard for me, so I really needed a good nights sleep.

What I miss: I'm getting to that part in pregnancy where I'm past the cute-pregnant stage and feeling just plain huge. So, I miss finding what to wear easily and wearing normal clothes.

Cravings: Nothing in particular this week.

Symptoms: Some heartburn in the evenings, linea nigra is getting darker, and I'm starting to have some mild swelling in the evenings. Nothing like I had with Graham, but I think my feet and ankles look slightly swollen and my wedding ring is a little harder to take off at night. Also, still having braxton hicks.

Best Moment This Week: Graham gave my tummy another kiss last night. I can't wait to see these two together!!

Best Comment of the Week: Nothing in particular comes to mind.

What I'm looking forward to: My baby shower, finishing up the nursery (hopefully this weekend we will be able to get a lot done), painting her rocking chair and touring the hospital.

Milestones:Now that your baby has grown so long and your uterus is higher, you might notice a new discomfort. Your baby is probably head-down and may occasionally stretch out and kick you in the ribs. The pressure on your rib cage can make you sore, especially if one of your baby's feet becomes caught. You can prevent this by sitting up straight as much as possible. Because your baby's demands for vitamins and minerals are higher than ever right now, you should continue to take your parental vitamins for the entire pregnancy.

This week your baby's movements will peak. You should continue to monitor the fetal movements daily and address any concerns with your caregiver. The wrinkles in your baby's face are disappearing and fat is still being deposited throughout the baby's body.

The body growth slows down from now on.

Because of the lack of space in the uterus, the legs are drawn up in what is known as the fetal position.

As a preparation for breastfeeding, your baby has learned to root for the breast. The baby will turn its head if touched on the cheek and open its mouth if the bottom lip is tickled. By this time the baby can also suck and swallow in a coordinated way.

Tidbits

2012-01-25T10:54:00.000-06:00

This past weekend was super low-key, just the way I like it (esp. for being 7.5 months pregnant). Friday, Chad got home from Dallas and we went to Target to pick up a few groceries. I also got a new rug for our kitchen I've been eyeing for awhile that was on sale! I think this one fits much better with the look I'm going for, and it's even made me like the shades in the breakfast area better! After our Target run, we decided last minute to grab some Mexican food at our favorite local restaurant to celebrate Chad getting into Presidents Club.

Saturday we literally didn't leave the house all day. I was on Pinterest and decided to try out some cleaning tips I found. We have stainless steel Calphalon pots and pans that Chad's brother and his wife got us for our wedding that I love, but over the years have become stained. I found a super easy way to clean them, and we were amazed at the results!!! They sparkle like new, I was so excited!!! Chad's grandparent's stopped by for a visit, and Graham had a blast showing off for them.

Saturday night I made meatloaf and potatoes and we watched The Notebook b/c it was on TV. Then on Sunday we went to church and had our friends Jared and Kelley come over for a bit, so Chad could get some tips on his new garage gym he's planning. Last week, he cleaned out the garage and added shelving for storage, and he plans to make his own Crossfit gym in the garage. He was doing Crossfit for several months, but because it was so expensive, and we have several expenses coming up with Claire due in a few months, he quit and joined a 24 hour gym. He really got spoiled by Crossfit, though, so 24-hour isn't cutting it. He has big plans for our garage, so I'll post pics as it comes together! After Claire arrives, he says he'll train me and my friend Lindsay, and he's all excited about it.

Sunday afternoon I made the best chocolate chip cookies. I found the recipe HERE they were easy to make, and the recipe made a ton! I am on a cookie kick lately. For some reason, I always thought homemade cookies were hard to make, but they are actually pretty easy! Sunday evening we went for a long walk, then grilled burgers and watched Desperate Housewives after Graham went to bed.

There's a horse that lives near our neighborhood on some land, and we sometimes go say hi to it on our walks.

We didn't work on Claire's nursery this weekend, but we have plans to finish it very soon!! It's storming pretty bad here today (tornado watches/warnings and everything), so we'll probably have a lazy day at home.

Weekly Dinner Menu

2012-01-24T13:39:00.003-06:00

MONDAY: Grilled Tilapia, steamed veggies (broccoli and baby carrots) long grain & wild rice and cheesy biscuits from Pinterest

TUESDAY: Poppyseed Chicken with angel hair pasta, leftover veggies and biscuits ( I use all the xtra "fancy" ingredients, def recommend!)

WEDNESDAY: Leftovers, Salad

THURSDAY: Steak, New Potatoes and broccoli

FRIDAY: Hotdogs

SATURDAY: Lunch: Fend for yourself
Dinner: Tortellini Soup and Beer Bread (this recipe supposedly tastes just like Wuensche's!!)

SUNDAY: Slow Cooker Mac and Cheese

Graham Update!

2012-01-24T10:29:00.002-06:00

My beautiful baby boy will be 20 months old next week! He is doing so many new things all the time and we are just as obsessed with him as ever. I feel like I haven't done a post or an update about our favorite little man in forever, so here are just a few of the things Graham is up to these days:

-Talking up a storm!!!

-Says "Thank you!" sounds more like "Jank hu!" but you can def tell it's thank you, in the cutest voice ever when you give him something like a snack, sippy, toy or whatever. Melts. My. Heart.

-"Uh-oh" is another favorite

-"Pah" is paci

-"Bear" for his lovey... he is ALL about the Bear and "Pah"

-He loves his lamb too, but his bear is #1.

-"Bye!!" is another word we hear constantly, as well as "Hi!"

-He looooves to go outside and to the park, Park is "Par"

-Is still a champion eater, his favorites haven't changed and he is really good with trying new foods. Last week he discovered dipping french fries in ranch dressing... he was in heaven

-Loves goldgish and animal crackers and whatever mommy is eating :)

-Blows kisses, gives hugs and still leans forehead down when you ask for a kiss. The other day, he hugged me when I asked for one, and started patting my back. I could've died, there is nothing better than getting some love from your baby.

-Lays his head on my tummy when we snuggle on the couch

-Throws the occasional tantrum (they are still short-lived though)

-Throws his food when he is done eating, which we are working on

-Loves bathtime and says "Bye" "Nigh-Nigh" to his toys when he has to get out

-Loves the cozy coupe, wagon and stroller

- Calls all motor vehicles "Car"

-"Says "Hi" to any animal we see

-Can say lots of animal noises
elephant, cow, dog, cat, monkey, duck, just to name a few

-Loves to be tickled, chased, and run off with items he isn't supposed to have (our phones, my hairbrush, the remotes) loves to throw all the pillows off the couches, moves the kitchen chairs and pushes his high chair out when he wants to eat, tries to open the pantry/fridge when he wants a snack or a drink

-Still scared of swinging, but loves to climb and slide, and throw balls and run

-Sings along to songs in the car, yesterday there was a song on and when it held out the word "you" Graham sang right along, so cute!!! Could we have a singer on our hands??

His daily schedule is still about the same:

7:30ish: Wake up, get diaper changed, eats breakfast (a banana with yogurt or fruit bar or toast with nutella) and milk

After breakfast, he plays and watches Mickey Mouse until naptime

9:00 Morning Nap

12ish: Get up from nap, get dressed, eat lunch (leftovers from dinner, or fruit, veggie, cheese stick and a meat)

After lunch, he runs around and plays while I finish getting ready and then we usually go run errands, go to the park, go for a walk, drinks a sippy of milk

2:30ish (later or earlier depending on how tired he is, or if we're still running errands): Afternoon Nap

3:30ish: Afternoon snack and sippy with milk

Daddy is usually home so he plays with him for awhile, while I cook dinner

6:30: Eat Dinner

7:00: Bathtime

7:30: Play, drink sippy with milk, dances, watches TV, Read books with Mom and Dad

8:15: Bedtime!

Hanging with his friend Corbin in his wagon

About to go for a walk with Mom and Dad

Bathtime!

We love life with our little toddler, and I can't believe soon he won't be the only baby around. I know there will be lots of adjustments for all of us, so I hope it goes as smooth as possible and Graham loves being a big brother as much as he loves getting all the attention to himself! :)

The Vow

2012-01-24T08:41:00.001-06:00

I looove Rachel McAdams, so when I saw the preview for this movie over the weekend, I was so excited!! Chad said he thought it looked pretty good too, so that's a bonus. We haven't been out for a date night together since our anniversary in November, and I know in a couple months it will be near impossible to go out for awhile.... Can't wait to see this!

All I'm sayin' is....

31 Weeks

2012-01-23T13:55:00.000-06:00

How Far Along: 31 Weeks

Size of baby: Still a Squash (Not the yellow kind, but the orange pumpkin-looking kind) 18 inches long and 3 plus pounds!

Total Weight Gain: 140.6, up at about 16 pounds

Maternity Clothes: Yes, but I actually tried on a pair of pre-pregnancy jeans yesterday and they fit! I couldn't button them of course, but my legs and butt fit into them, so I was pretty shocked/proud! :)

Movement: Still moving a lot, she loves to hear her daddy's voice, her brother's voice and music :)

Sleep: Eh...so-so. I've had trouble going back to sleep (like for an hour or longer) when I wake up to pee. I hate this part of pregnancy, where your body and mind can't shut off to prepare you for all those night wakings in the near future.

What I miss: Having energy!

Cravings: Chocolate chip cookie dough icecream! Haven't been craving too much ice cream this pregnancy, but this week it sounded and tasted sooooo good.

Symptoms: Sciatic pain still gone for now! Yay! Feeling some heartburn off and on but nothing too bad. Getting full fast, and feeling like my stomach is stretched to the limits (I can't believe it will get a lot bigger in the next few weeks.) No swelling yet, but getting uncomfortable none the less. The linea nigra is just now faintly showing up. Also lots of achiness in my lower abdomen and feeling some pressure and braxton hicks.

Best Moment This Week: We told Graham to give his sister a kiss and he leaned over and planted one on my belly, soooo sweet!!

Best Comment of the Week: Nothing in particular comes to mind.

What I'm looking forward to: Same as last week: My baby shower brunch my sister, friend Traci and Mom are throwing for me!!! I am so blessed!!! Also, touring the hospital where I'll deliver since it's a different one than where I delivered Graham.

Milestones: She's going through major brain and nerve development. Eye development, too. Her irises now react to light! All five of her senses are in working order.

Award-Winning Hubby

2012-01-20T09:34:00.001-06:00

Yesterday Chad went to Dallas for his company's annual President's Club Dinner where they announce who made President's Club that year. He called me last night to let me know he made it!!!! I'm sooo proud of him!! It's only his 2nd year as a Core Sales Rep. and it's a really big deal to make President's Club in his company. This year the President's Club trip is in Beverly Hills, and we'll be staying in the same hotel where the Golden Globes are held! Claire will only be about 6 weeks old (give or take) so that will be a challenge for me, but I know it will all work out. It's only for about 4 days (and 2 are travel days). I'm so proud of my husband and so thankful for how hard he works to provide for our family!!

2012 Home Improvement Goals

2012-01-18T18:07:00.001-06:00

Recently Chad asked me to make a list of everything we want to do to the house this year. We did a few things last year, but we still have a ways to before our house is where we want it to be. Luckily, we have similar taste and he likes most of the ideas I have (painting the kitchen cabinets might take some convincing...) I fully don't excpet to really do all of these home improvements this year, and some may never get done, but it's just the ideas I have. Pinterest and "nesting" is a deadly combination, I tell ya!

I know it seems like I don't like my house at all, but that's not the case! I really like it, but there's just a lot of personalizing I want to do to make it feel more homey and more ours. I've been trying to find my style and change out things I've had since my single days/ early married-we-had-no-money-to-decorate days. Check out my Pinterest Home Sweet Home Board for all of my inspiration!

Baby Claire's Birth Bets!

2012-01-18T11:31:00.001-06:00

When I was pregnant with Graham, we had our families guess his birth stats. I thought it would be fun to open it up for everyone to guess this time! So, leave a comment with your guesses for Little Miss' birthday, time of birth, weight, height, and hair color. In just 10 short weeks (or less) we will know!

Some Facts:

Chad's birth weight: 8 pounds, 14 ounces

Brenden's birth weight: 6 pounds, 12 ounces (born on due date)

Graham's Birth Stats:
Due Date: June 15, 2010
Born: June 3, 2010 (born 12 days early)
Time: 9:59 am
Weight: 7 pounds, 10 ounces
Height: 19 inches
Hair Color: Dark blonde
(No one got Graham's birth day right, the cloesest guess was June 8... but Chad and Chad's Mom guessed his weight right!)

Claire's Due Date: March 26, 2012 (Measuring right on track so far)

Day at the Park

2012-01-17T08:43:00.000-06:00

Saturday we took Graham to a local park to play. He looooves parks right now. The only problem is, he's still too little to be given free reign, but he he thinks he can play just like the big kids. He is a great climber and loves the slides. I was happy to have Chad there to help this time, because the last few times we've been to the park, I'm aching and exhausted from chasing my little monkey up and down the jungle gym, trying to prevent him from falling off one of the sides. He has so much fun though, I'm going to have to start taking him more often. It would be so nice if he liked to swing, though!!

After Graham played on about 3 different playgrounds at the park, we decided to go on one of the nature trails. We took about a mile walk, and I told Chad in a few weeks we should come there and walk if we need to try to get labor going!

Weekly Dinner Menu

2012-01-16T10:58:00.002-06:00

MONDAY: Chicken Pot Pie Variations: I use a store bought rotisserie chicken and 1 cup frozen mixed veggies (no need to thaw)

TUESDAY: At Chad's request: Chicken Tortilla Soup A cool front is coming in tonight, so it's a good night to make it!

WEDNESDAY: Leftover Chicken Tortilla Soup (We always have a ton)

THURSDAY: Chad won't be home for dinner, so I'll probably just eat a PB&J or something :)

FRIDAY: Meatloaf with mashed red potatoes and green beans

SATURDAY: Lunch: Sandwiches/Leftovers/ Fend for yourself
Dinner: Hamburgers with fries

SUNDAY: Lunch: Buffalo Chicken Nachos
Dinner: Grilled Tilapia, whole grain wild rice and steamed veggies

30 Weeks!!!

2012-01-16T09:50:00.001-06:00

How Far Along: 30 Weeks!!!! Finally in the 30's, feels like it's all downhill from here!!

Size of baby: A Squash (Not the yellow kind, but the orange pumpkin-looking kind) Your 15.2- to 16.7-inch, 2.5- to 3.8-pound baby continues to grow.

Total Weight Gain: 140.6, up at about 16 pounds

Maternity Clothes: My friends are so generous! My sweet friend Traci let me borrow her maternity coat a few monts back, it's just too bad there haven't been that many cold days here yet. And my friend Lindsay let me borrow a huge back of clothes this week. Jeans, capris, lots of cute shirts, and it all fit perfect! When I was pregnant with Graham it was a different season, so I am so thankful for all my generous friends for loaning me their cute clothes!!

Movement: Lots of movement from this girl! It seems to kick up a bit in the evenings. I usually gasp a few times a day from a surprising/ tiny bit painful jab from my little sweetie. I don't mind though, because I love feeling her move and knowing she's doing well. She gets the hiccups a lot still and I always feel them way down low. I can feel her elbows and heels a lot and I feel her a lot on my right side.

Sleep: Sleeping good still for the most part. I woke up around 3:30-4 to pee last night and couldn't go back to sleep for a while, but other than that I am still sleeping good.

What I miss: Cuddling with Chad because I've had to move over to the loveseat for the most part for watching TV at night. It's just way more comfortable to have my own space.

Cravings: Peanut butter was a big one this week

Symptoms: Sciatic pain is still gone for now!! Lots of ligament stretching causing soreness and my gums were bleeding when I brushed my teeth, and I was having some leg cramps. Lots of forgetfullness, just feeling scatter-brained and bumping into stuff with my stomach. Also, at night it gets harder to move around and I feel like my stomach is bigger. Also, kind of gross but my belly button is flat now, but when I cough or laugh it kind of juts out! Don't remember that happening with Graham.

Best Moment This Week: Getting the crib in (even if we've yet to set it up)!!

Best Comment of the Week: Nothing in particular comes to mind.

What I'm looking forward to: My baby shower brunch my sister, friend Traci and Mom are throwing for me!!! I am so blessed!!! Also, touring the hospital where I'll deliver since it's a different one than where I delivered Graham.

Milestones: Your baby's bone marrow has taken over production of red blood cells (before, tissue groups and then the spleen took care of producing the blood cells). This is an important step for your baby, because it means he or she is better able to thrive on his or her own once born (with a little TLC from you, of course). So it's in with the new (brain cells, red blood cells) and out with the old (lanugo). Much of the lanugo — the soft, downy hair covering your baby's body — is beginning to disappear now because both fat and the brain are regulating your baby's body temperature (so no need for that furry coat anymore). But you may see a few leftover strands of fur on your newborn's back and shoulders.

Claire's Nursery Sneak Peek

2012-01-12T14:13:00.000-06:00

This past weekend we (well, mostly Chad) painted Claire's nursery! The horizontal stripes we haven't been planning to do the whole time, but I wanted to do something extra besides just painting the walls one solid color. They were pretty time consuming, but we both love how they turned out! I think it adds a lot to the room. The walls need a 2nd coat of paint, so we will probably be working on that this weekend. Her crib also arrived on Tuesday, but it's still boxed up for now, until we finish painting. We also still need to refinish her rocking chair, buy her dresser, and buy a light fixture as far as the big things go.

I bought these two pictures at Hobby Lobby (50% off course) and I thought they were so cute. Since Claire is a French name, I thought a few little French-inspired touches would be fun. The first one say's "I love Paris in the sprintime" perfect since Claire is due in the spring!

Can't wait to post about the nursery once it's all finished!!

Weekly Dinner Menu

2012-01-09T16:54:00.008-06:00

SUNDAY: Grilled steak, new potatoes and salad

MONDAY: Three Cheese Chicken Penne Pasta Bake

TUESDAY: Leftover Chicken Penne

WEDNESDAY: Cheesy Enchilada Casserole
Dessert: 5 Ingredient Chocolate Chip Peanut Butter Cookies..... Delicious!!!

THURSDAY: Leftovers for Chad and Graham, I'm going to dinner with some girlfriends :)

FRIDAY: Grilled Tilapia with whole grain wild rice and steamed veggies

SATURDAY: Lunch: Pizza
Dinner: Crockpot Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

SUNDAY: Lunch: Hamburgers
Dinner: Homemade Chicken Pot Pie

29 Weeks!

2012-01-09T12:07:00.002-06:00

How Far Along: 29 Weeks... I can't believe Little Miss will be here in about 9 weeks!!!

Size of baby: The head of a small cabbage
Baby already measures about 15.2 to 16.7 inches long. Right now, she weighs about 2.5 to 3.8 pounds but she's still got a ways to go -- can you believe she'll triple in weight before birth?

Total Weight Gain: 139.7 about 15 pounds

Maternity Clothes: Even my pajama pants are too snug around my belly these days; I think I've hit a belly growth spurt this past week.

Movement: She has been quite the mover and shaker! I was reading this morning that she can now control her movements and responds to outside stimuli. You can feel her butt, back elbows and heels, at least I'm pretty sure that's what all those hard spots are. When I was pregnant with Graham, I had no clue what I was feeling, but I think I'm pretty sure this time around. Love seeing my belly do waves, its acutally doing that as I type!!

Sleep: Sleeping good still. Loving my pregnancy pillow!

What I miss: Being able to bend over easily, get out of bed easily and having a glass of wine or champagne at my friend Terah's wedding this past weekend.

Cravings: Still loving poptarts, and loving pasta, but that's nothing new for me :)

Symptoms: I almost am afraid to type this, in case I jinx myself, but the last couple of days my sciatic pain has been gone!!! Maybe she moved? I hope so, but I guess we'll see.

Best Moment This Week: Painting the nursery!!!

Best Comment of the Week: People telling me how good I still look and how much smaller I am this time around, I hope it stays that way!!!

What I'm looking forward to: Getting Claire's crib in! Should get here the beginning of this week! :)

Milestones: her wrinkled skin is smoothing out as more fat is deposited under the skin surface. This fat, called white fat, is different from the earlier brown fat that your developing fetus accumulated. Brown fat is necessary for body temperature regulation while white fat (the fat you have, Mom) actually serves as an energy source.

Which explains why your energizer baby feels so…well…energized! Space in your baby's living quarters is now at a premium, so you'll be feeling jabs and pokes from elbows and knees mostly. But those kicks will be more vigorous than before (and also less erratic) because your baby is stronger and excitedly responding to all sorts of stimuli — movement, sounds, light, and that candy bar you ate half an hour ago.

Luckily, your baby doesn't have teeth yet that would need a brushing after that sugary treat, but it won't be long before you'll need to buy that first baby toothbrush! You'll recall that your baby's baby-teeth buds formed weeks ago, but now the buds for permanent teeth are forming in his or her gums as well.

Travis and Terah's Wedding

2012-01-09T08:32:00.000-06:00

On January 7th, one of my best friends, Terah got married! Chad's stupid GPS made us late, so we missed part of the ceremony and I was so sad, but at least we didn't miss the entire thing. It was a beautiful wedding and Terah looked stunning! Her dress was amazing and the venue was so beautiful. Travis and Terah have a daughter a few months older than Graham, and Terah is so excited that I'm having a girl this time too. We had such a good time visiting with friends, dancing and eating. Love weddings!

Introducing the Newlyweds!

Miss Charlotte was not happy during the cake cutting

Precious flowergirl Charlotte!

Anniversary dance

Me and the Bride!! Love how my belly juts out....Ha!

Friends at our table

The guys at the table

Congratulations Travis and Terah!!!

Mini Makeovers

2012-01-06T19:43:00.001-06:00

So my nesting instinct has been going on full-force, and this week our house has reaped the benefits. I have been organizing and rearranging up a storm. Last night, we decided...or I decided that we should move the loveseat to the other side of the living room. We've always felt our couch and love seat were a tad large for our living room, so I thought this might open up the room a little. Chad didn't think it would fit, but after some convincing we tried it out. We're still deciding if we like it, but it defnitely makes the living room and kitchen feel more open. These aren't the best pictures, but what do you think?

This morning, I decided to do a little makeover on our laundry room. I've been pinning pictures of gorgeous laundry rooms for awhile, and so I decided to fix ours up a bit.

BEFORE:

For as much time as I spend in there, I wanted the room to look cute, especially since we go in and out of there a lot to get to the garage.

AFTER:

I threw away a bunch of near-empty laundry detergents, packed away the cooler in a hall closet, put cleaning rags and toilet paper in the wicker baskets, moved the glass apothecary jars from the kitchen and filled them with light bulbs, clothes pins and laundry detergent. I also hung an old hook I bought from Hobby Lobby ages ago and put my scarves and hat on it. Much better! And the best part? It didn't cost a cent! I still want to eventually paint the room a fun color, get a better rug and hang a cute light fixture, but for now it's much better.

This weekend we are going to start painting Claire's room, so she can finally see some benefits of the nesting :) Stay tuned for pictures!!

Inside Look

2012-01-05T21:24:00.001-06:00

I came across this diagram tonight of a woman 28 weeks pregnant. I thought it was so interesting to see what it looks like inside my body right now. I defnitely think that Claire is in that postition too, because I've been feeling her heels and her butt up high and her hiccupping way down low. So crazy how all your organs get squished to fit the growing baby!

Before Pregnancy and 28 Weeks Pregnant

Tidbits

2012-01-04T13:50:00.001-06:00

Monday night I met some girls from our church class at Chuy's to say goodbye to our friend Amanda who moved to Mississippi this week. It was so fun to have a girls night and so sad to see Amanda go, she will be missed! :( After dinner, a few of us girls headed to Lindsay's to watch the season premier of The Bachelor and have some coffee and dessert. I usually tell my favorites right off the bat, and there are some absolute looney toons this time, so it should be a fun season! ;) Gotta love The Bachelor.

Last night I ordered Claire's crib from Amazon, and I can't wait to get it in! It's a white Jenny Lind. We are really needing to get a move on with her nursery, so just doing that helped me feel a little better. I think we are going to paint her nursery this weekend. My good friend Terah is getting married on Saturday night, too so it will be a fun weekend.

Today I had my 28 week check-up, Miss Claire's heartbeat was a strong 160 and I am measuring perfectly. She is most likely head down, like I suspected. We found out that the 32 week ultrasound is now elective-only (meaning no insurance coverage) so since everything is going so well, we'll probably opt out of it. My doctor told us that most insurance companies have cut out 3rd trimester ultrasounds, unless there's a specific need like high blood pressure, and some are trying to cut out ultrasounds altogether! Thanks, Obama-care...........

Graham went with us to the appointment, too and he did so good, entertaining everyone in the waiting room, of course. Then we grabbed some lunch at Grimaldi's before heading home. I think today I'm going to go to Hobby Lobby and get some stuff to start on a few projects for Claire. I want to make this hospital door hanger I pinned a while back, start on her rocking chair, bow holder, and shadow box, and this adorable picture frame idea (with her newborn picture and a song like Martina McBride's In My Daughter's Eyes, George Strait's My Infinite Love, or Erin O'Donnels Hold Onto Jesus) I also need to start collecting bows and headbands. My friend Lindsay gave me a bunch of good websites and facebook pages for those. So fun! :) It will feel so good to get some stuff accomplished for Claire's arrival. I am definitely feeling the nesting instinct kicking in. I hate how anxious and unorganized it makes me feel! I constantly have a running list of everything we need to get done going through my mind. Even stuff that really has no bearing on her at all, like painting the living room/kitchen/dining room (other than wanting her to come home to a cute house...) Only 12 weeks or less to go!

28 Weeks... made it to the 3rd trimester!!! :)

2012-01-02T22:22:00.001-06:00

How Far Along: 28 Weeks

Size of baby: An eggplant, about 2.5 pounds and 16 inches long (crazy to think Graham was only 3 inches taller at birth!!)

Total Weight Gain: 138 about 14 pounds

Maternity Clothes: I ended up keeping the size 6 jeans I ordered, even though they are still big. I was hoping they would shrink in the wash, but I will probably grow into them in the next few months anyway.

Movement: Hiccups, a few painful kicks (like she's hitting some internal organs and some kicks in the bladder- that's always fun)

Sleep: Sleeping good

What I miss: Not having sciatic pain!

Cravings: Oranges

Symptoms: Still having the sciatic pain. Now I feel it even when I'm sitting or laying down. I am hoping and praying she will move off of it, and it doesn't get worse. I am limping a lot of the time and I hate that!!

Best Moment This Week: Chad feeling her have the hiccups.

Best Comment of the Week: Nothing that sticks out.

What I'm looking forward to: Getting maternity pictures taken, really starting on her nursery and doing a few DIY crafts for her room.

Milestones: She's starting to develop more fat, so her wrinkly skin will start to get smoother. Her lungs are mature enough that she'd probably survive if she was born now. Wow!

Happy New Year!

2012-01-02T11:36:00.000-06:00

It's a good thing that we had planned on having a low-key weekend, because that's exactly what we had to do anyway. Saturday afternoon Chad and Graham picked up a honeybaked ham while I cleaned up the house a little and managed to get out of my pj's. Then we all went to get groceries for New Years. I spent some time pinteresting while I was sick, so I got some good recipes for our NYE dinner and New Years Day lunch. :)
We came home and put Graham down for a nap and Chad got a work out in while I started dinner. We had our honeybaked ham with stuffed baked potatoes (from Omaha Steaks that we got as a Christmas present from Chad's grandparents----delicious!!!) salad and garlic bread. For dessert I made pineapple cherry dump cake, served with vanilla ice cream, it was delicious and so, so easy! Another pinterst recipe.

(Picture from pinterest)

After dinner, we bathed Graham got him ready for bed then took him outside to watch fireworks. There were a ton going off in our neighborhood, so we decided to make a pallet in Chad's truck bed and watch them in the driveway. Graham was in heaven!

He was so exctied, he would clap everytime a firework would go off and loved laying in the pallet and running around in the truck bed. It was so fun. We put him to bed about 9, and he miraculously stayed asleep through all the fireworks. It seriously sounded like a war zone outside, and we were shocked he slept through all the commotion! Chad and I made a pallet in the living room (at 7 months pregnant, I'm all about pallets these days) and rented Midnight in Paris, which we really liked! Love Rachel McAdams and Owen Wilson, even though I'm not much of a Woody Allen fan usually.

At midnight, we headed into the backyard to watch the fireworks, and it was seriously like we had our own fireworks show. The neighbors behind us were setting off artillery shells, so the fireworks were literally right over our backyard. 10 years ago at midnight, Chad and I had our first kiss, so crazy! We didn't get to kiss last night though, since I'm sick. It was still perfect to ring in the new year with my love! :)

Before heading to bed, we finished our movie and then put the black eyed peas into the crockpot for New Years Day. It was the first time I've made black eyed peas, but they turned out great! We added in some bacon for flavor, too. Overall, it was a great night and a perfect way to send out an amazing year.

New Years Day, we layed around until it was time to start making the cabbage for lunch. I used my mom's way of doing it, and boiled a head of cabbage cut into quarters with equal parts water and chicken broth, with a little bacon for about 20 minutes, until soft. Chad isn't a huge cabbage fan, but he even liked it, I loved it.The black eyed peas cooked all night and were ready about noon, and they turned out great. We had BEP's, cabbage, ham and hawiian rolls. Graham looooved the BEP's (and the roll of course- such a bread lover).

That night, we made ham and cheese sliders (yumm)

(Pic from pinterest)

and actually did something productive and packed up the Christmas decorations and Christmas tree. I hate how the house feels a little bit bare after all the Chrismtas decor is packed away. Graham was sad to see the tree go too. We still have to take down the lights on the house, but that will get done sometime later this week. Hope everyone had a fun and happy New Year!!

Week After Christmas

2012-01-01T18:10:00.001-06:00

We had a great week for the most part, well- it started out great! Graham surprised us by going pee pee in his new potty he got for Christmas!! We just sat him on there for fun before his bath, and he ended up going! The next night, he did it again before his bath, but this time when he peed, he didn't get up right away. About 30 seconds later he peed some more, then got up and flushed the potty and closed the lid! Later in his bath, he stood up, pointed to the potty and started peeing again! Guess he really had to go that night :) He hasn't done it since, but he is under the weather right now, so we'll keep trying when he feels better. No rush though, he is still so young, it's just for fun and to introduce it right now.

My bestfriend Kirby and her hubby Jerry came down from New York for Christmas, so we got to spend some time with them. They even spoiled us with some Christmas presents from the Big Apple! Graham got a boardbook called "Good Night, New York" which he loves, Claire got an adorable onesie that has a map of Brooklyn on it, Chad got some yummy beef jerky and I got the Momofuku Milk Bar cookbook and some delicious chocolate, yumm. Kirbs hung out with us Tuesday and Jer joined us for dinner that night. We had such a good time with them, and we miss them so much. Kirby and I have been friends since our senior year of high school, and I love Jerry almost as much as I love her :) Chad and Jerry love eachother too, and Kirbs and Jer are so wonderful to Graham. Kirby's parents love Graham too, and we got to visit with them on Thursday night when we went to say goodbye to Kirby before they left.

Me and Kirbs running to the store to get some stuff for dinner

Wednesday was Chad's brother's birthday, so we met up at Chuy's to celebrate! Graham made Uncle D a card, and we also got him a Case knife. Happy Birthday, David!!!!

Graham and his friend Corbin eating some tex-mex :)

Sweet Corbin, who turns 1 next month!

Thursday we went over to Kirby's parents house and visited before Kirby and Jerry had to fly back the next morning. It was so good seeing Kirby's parents, and they get such a kick out of Graham. He entertained us all with his dance moves, of course. On the way home, my sciatic nerve started hurting again. It had been hurting off and on all week, and getting a little worse every day. This time it was hurting even while I was sitting down, so when we made it home, I had to lay down on the couch the rest of the night. So thankful to have a husband who is happy to pitch in when he needs too!! Chad is always so great to me when I'm sick or down for the count b/c of pregnancy-related issues, and I am so grateful, even though I can't help but feel a little guilty.

Early Friday morning is when I came down with a fever and sore throat and cough, and he has been babying me and doing so much for me and Graham while I'm sick. Graham has a cough and runny nose too, so Chad took him to the pedi Friday morning. He just has the crud, so it will have to run it's course. He's acting normal for the most part and no fever, so that is good. My sweet Momma brought us spaghetti and garlic bread Friday night. Nothing better than a homecooked meal from your Mom when you're sick :)The past 3 days we have barely left the house. Not fun.Whenever I start to feel a little bit better, and do some stuff around the house (laundry, vaccuum, dinner) my sciaitic nerve starts hurting or my throat starts hurting again, and I am back to the couch. Ugh, can't wait to feel back to normal!!

Goals for 2012

2012-01-01T00:00:00.008-06:00

~~Strikethrough~~ = Completed Italics = In Progress Red = Uncompleted

**These aren't necessarily in order of importance/ order in which they will be completed**

Go the the Zoo with Chad and Graham
Read the Bible everyday/ have quiet time every morning
Take Graham to Sea World/ San Antonio before Claire's birth
Complete Claire's Nursery
Paint and spruce up the dining room
Update the kids/guest Bathroom
Organize junk drawers/hall closets
Blow up maternity pictures/ wedding pictures/ family pictures for our bedroom
Get a TV for our bedroom
Read Graham and Claire a Bible Story everynight before bed
Figure out a workout routine and stick to it
Get a cute haircut/highlights/nails done before I give birth
Get Claire's birth on video
Get to 5cm before I get an epidural (Assuming labor is going normally)
Take pictures of Claire every month like I did with Graham
Landscape our backyard (at least plant something!!)
Get new outdoor furniture
Stay in touch with friends better
Visit Kirby and Jerry in NYC
Be more flexible
Breastfeed Claire exclusively for as long as possible
Learn how to sew
Buy a new camera
Buy new everday dishes
Read Beth Moore's "So Long, Insecurity"
Go to a Beth Moore talk
Paint more rooms in our house (We're thinking the master bathroom, kitchen, dining room, entry hall, laundry room, maybe even kitchen cabinets)
Put money into a "Christmas Present Fund" every month
Gain around 25 pounds with my pregnancy and lose all my baby weight from Claire before she is 9 months old
Pray everyday!!!

2011

2011-12-30T12:27:00.005-06:00

Our year in review...

JANUARY

Graham had his first (and only thankgoodness, to-date) emergency when Chad accidentally locked him in the car

We settled into our new house...

and made our first big purchase for the house with a dining room table!

FEBRUARY

Celebrated Graham's first Valentine's Day by going to Kemah

MARCH

Bought our bedroom furniture

Took Graham to the Houston Rodeo for the first time

Took Graham to the beach for the first time

March was also the month Graham weaned from breastfeeding. :(

APRIL

Celebrated Graham's first Easter

I turned 25

Chad and I left Graham for the first time, and finally took a very belated honeymoon

MAY

Graham took his first steps!

I helped host my friend Jaclyn's baby "sprinkle" for her 2nd baby boy

We had family pictures taken/ Graham's 1 year pictures

JUNE

Graham turned ONE on June 3!!!

We celebrated Charlotte's 2nd birthday on June 10th

JULY

Graham had his 2nd Fourth of July (sans fireworks because of the drought)

Had lots of lazy summer days and pool time

Found out we were expecting baby #2 on the morning of July 17th!!!

(Just realized that from the day we started "trying" to the day we conceived was 11 days... crazy!!)

Took our first family vacation with the Hastings' family to the beach!

And told our families we were pregnant again!

AUGUST

Went to stay at a hotel downtown for a fun date night

Heard our baby's heartbeat and found out the due date is March 26th

SEPTEMBER

Celebrated my bestfriend Kirby's bachelorette party

OCTOBER

Kirby and Jerry got married!! And immediately moved to New York City :(

(Above: Kirby with her Dad walking her down the aisle)

Had our Gender Reveal Party and found out we are having...

a GIRL!!!!

Celebrated Chad's 26th birthday and Claire kicked for the first time!

Took Graham to the pumpkin patch

and for an old fashioned hayride

Graham was a bum for his 2nd Halloween & got his first taste of Halloween candy!

NOVEMBER

Graham got his first haircut

Chad and I celebrated 3 years of wedded bliss

We got our fall family pictures taken

Flew to Dallas for Chad's company's anniversary party

Made it to the 1/2 way point of my pregnancy!

Traveled 3 weekends in a row: to Dallas, Austin then to Tyler for Thanksgiving

DECEMBER

Took Graham to see Santa.... he was not a fan

Celebrated Christmas Eve with our families

Claire and I made it to the 3rd trimester

Graham had an exciting 2nd Christmas!

We have had such a blessed year. Last year, I didn't think there was any way that we would have a more exciting, fun year, but it came pretty close!!! We are trying our best to be so grateful for our life that God has given us. This year, along with everything we did, we have really tried to learn about the Lord, read his Word and follow Christ's example for how we should live. We still have a very long way to go, but we hope we are instilling our values into our children, and are teaching them what is important. I am so excited for 2012: Welcoming our daughter and starting all those "firsts" all over again and watching Graham become a big brother!! :)

Happy New Year!!!!

Merry Christmas!!!

2011-12-28T16:04:00.002-06:00

On Christmas morning, my boys decided to sleep in, so I got up early and got everything ready! I lit the fire in the fireplace, put the monkey bread in the oven, turned on the Christmas lights, turned on a Christmas movie and then woke Chad up. We video taped Graham walking in the living room, but I'll upload the video later. The first thing he saw was his Mickey Mouse he had gotten the night before, so he just wanted to play with that instead of opening his presents. Chad actually took it away, but when Graham had a meltdown, we gave it back :) So, we ended up opening the majority of his presents.

Santa brought Graham 2 Melissa and Doug chunky puzzles, a Kenneth Cole outfit (jeans and a plaid hoodie), a Puma outfit, 2 shirts, a sweater, A Melissa and Doug wooden peg and hammer, a potty, a few bibs, socks, a hat, a pair of shoes, a Thomas the Train & Friends Christmas movie, and The Night Before Christmas book.

Miss Claire got a few things too! She got a book with several fairytales, two bibs and bloomers.

Chad got a pair of boots, a tie and belt organizer, a set of pilsner glasses and some socks.

I got a purse, a pair of flats, a pair of black boots and a sweater.

After all the presents were unwrapped, we dug into the monkey bread and had some much-needed coffee :)

A tired set of parents

After the damage was done

When all the gifts were openened, and breakfast was over, we let Graham play with all his toys before he went down for his nap. He slept like a champion, and we almost had to wake him up so we could head to my parents for Christmas dinner.

We celebrated the day with Mer, Randall, Charlotte, my parents, my Aunt Ann and Uncle Sonny and my cousin Shannon and his family.

After the yummy turkey dinner, we began opening presents! Graham was once again spoiled rotten. He seriously cleaned up this year!! We are so blessed to have such a generous family. He got a "Rody horse" from Mer and Randall, a bunch of books and a ride-on dump truck from my Aunt Patti and Uncle Todd along with lots of blocks, a play grill from my parents along with a ton of adorable Baby Gap clothes, and 2 movies (An American Tale and Cars), a bunch more books, including 2 about being a big brother, one that has Graham and Claire's names in it! An electronic alphabet-learning toy that he loves from my cousin's family, and some cute clothes and a book from my Aunt Ann and Uncle Sonny.

Claire got an adorable onesie from my parents too. So sweet that she was in on the festivities!! :)

The kids on the Rody's with Landon supervising :)

This is an awesome toy, especially considering Graham's obsession with any and all things "tractors and trucks"!

Chad got an electric knife sharpener and sweater from my parents, he was so excited because he had no idea he was getting that, and he has been wanting one. I was so excited to see him open it, since I was in on the secret :)

I got a cream cashmere scarf and money to go towards my new dishes! We also got a beautiful snow globe from Ginny and Shannon.

We got Gracie and Haley shower gel and lotion, Landon a superhero blow up hop toy, and pictures of Graham for my Aunt and Uncle and Ginny and Shannon. We also got Charlotte a Princess baby doll and clothes and a hat from Baby Gap. We got my Mom canisters for her kitchen, my dad a tie and belt organizer and as their joint present we got them an electric juicer.

After the day was over, we headed to Chad's grandparents house to exchange gifts with them. Someone was a little worn out from all the excitement....

Graham some more adorable clothes, several books, a bath time book and a Cars toy. Chad got a bunch of food from Omaha Steak, and I got a cute scarf and silver hoops. So sweet!! We got them a picture of Graham and a cook book.

After our short visit, we had to head home to put Graham to bed. What a fun-filled day. We feel so blessed to have such wonderful families to spend Christmas with.

All of the gifts are so fun and wonderful, but the greatest gift by far is the birth of our savior, Jesus.

Luke 1:31-33 “…And behold, you will conceive in your womb and bear a son, and you shall call his name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. And the Lord God will give to him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever, and of his kingdom there will be no end.”

Christmas Eve 2011

2011-12-28T14:15:00.002-06:00

We had a great Christmas Eve this year. It was a little hectic, but we were able to spend it with my side of the family and Chad's side, so that was great! We went to church at Fellowship of the Woodlands with my family at 3.

The kids made it through about 10 minutes of the service before they started getting rowdy, so we had to take them out to the lobby, and missed the service entirely. They weren't being cranky, just laughing and playing with eachother. They get so excited when they are around eachother, it's so cute. Here they are playing in the lobby, entertaining themselves. They were spinning in circles and thought they were so hilarious.

Little Miss Charlotte in her adorable Christmas dress! After church was over, we headed to Brio's to eat dinner. Chad and I got there first, and we walked around in some of the outside stores at the mall before heading in. We had a great dinner, and had such a good time visiting and laughing, and trying to keep the kids reasonably quiet :) After dinner, we booked it over to Chad's parents house for the annual Pokorny Christmas Eve Party! Even Santa made an appearance!

Graham was less than thrilled with Santa again, but the other kids loved it. Santa told all the kids they would be getting every single thing they asked for, I'm sure they're paretns appreciated that! ;) After eating and visiting, we opened presents. Look at all that loot!! Everyone must've been good this year!!

Some of the cousins. There are several older little girls, and they love to boss the littlest kids around, so cute.

Graham and Grayson had a good time together. Even theough they are 6 months apart, they are pretty close to the same size!

Graham got some adorable outfits from Gamme, I got a pretty scarf from Gamme and Walter and we gave them a framed 8x10 picture of Graham.

After the extended family headed home, we stayed and opened presents with Chad's parents and Kara and David. Graham got spoiled rotten, and got the cutest pair of cowboy boots and a "G" ornament from his Aunt and Uncle, clothes from his grandparents along with a rockstar Mickey Mouse toy, a microphone, a stuffed animal and blanket, and probably several other things I'm forgetting. I got a Kate Spade silver pocket mirror from Kara and David, Gap Body pajamas, a robe and gift cards to Bed Bath and Beyond to go towards the new dishes I want from Chad's parents! Chad got money, and a pocket holster. Claire even got presents! An outift and doll from her grandparents and a "C" ornament from her Aunt and Unlce :) We got Kara and David a silver decorative platter and a hour glass from Z Gallerie for their house. For Chad's parents, we got his Mom a purse and picture of Graham and his dad an Academy Gift Card and an electric coin sorter, since he stills rolls his change by hand.

Graham sporting his new boots!!!

Around 10, we headed home to put Graham to bed.

We made sure all the presents were ready to go for the morning, I made monkey bread to put in the oven when we got up, and collapsed into bed....

Merry Christmas to all, and to all a good night!!

27 Weeks!!

2011-12-27T22:17:00.000-06:00

How Far Along: 27 Weeks... Now entering the 3rd Trimester!!!!! :)

Size of baby: A head of cauliflower, 2 pounds and 14.5 inches long

Total Weight Gain: With all the Christmas festivities, I may give myself an extra day or two until I step on the scale :)

Maternity Clothes: I actually tried on a pair of stretchy non-maternity jeggings today that buttoned! I didnt' wear them, but it was nice that I could fit into them at 6.5 months along!! I have hope that it won't take me that long to get back to a happy pre-pregnancy size this time around..... but we'll see ;)

Movement: She's had a lot of hiccups lately! I think she may have recently turned head down too.

Sleep: Sleeping good, with less heartburn.

What I miss: Same as last week: Sleeping on my back, being able to move around easily and bend over.

Cravings: Same as last week: Pop-tarts! Every morning lately I eat 2 pop-tarts and a glass of milk. I told Chad last night, I seriously look forward to pop-tarts the next morning when I go to bed, haha

Symptoms: Ugh. Friday night, I started feeling sciatica pain. Even with resting a bunch for the past few days, when I start moving around I feel it. It's been getting a little worse everyday, but hopefully it will go away and not continue to get worse. It's on my right side only, and I haven't had the shooting pain down my leg. I had some of this with Graham while we were moving, and Chad literally had to carry me to bed that night. It hasn't been that bad, but more constant. I am thinking she turned head down, and that she is pressing on my nerve.

Best Moment This Week: Christmas!! Claire even got several Christmas presents!! :)

Best Comment of the Week: Nothing that sticks out.

What I'm looking forward to: I'm really looking forward to having two kids! We talked several times this week about how fun it will be next year at Christmas with Claire being 9 months old, and Graham 2 1/2.

Milestones: She's practicing inhaling and exhaling with her rapidly developing lungs. It's official: Claire's showing brain activity! And her brain will keep on getting more complex.

Christmas Festivities

2011-12-27T12:40:00.000-06:00

Here are some of the fun things we did on the days leading up to Christmas this year:

Visited Grandma and Pepaw's house to see their Christmas lights:

Continued our tradition and drove through Prestonwood to look at Christmas lights:

Played in Christmas jammies and read Christmas books:

I had an ornament exchange with sweet friends at La Madeline (didn't get a picture though!)

Took Graham to The Woodlands to look at more Christmas lights and we picked up my parents to go with us on the way:

Wrapped all the Christmas presents:

Me and my sister went to get mani's and pedi's:

Coming up... Christmas Eve and Christmas Day!!!

Rant

2011-12-21T17:29:00.002-06:00

Wow, these past couple of weeks have been crazy! I don't know if it's pregnancy brain or what, but I have felt like it has been an absolute beat-down to get everything done for Christmas. I am finally feeling like I am on the home stretch of finishing my Christmas shopping. What made it so crazy this year, is that everything I tried to do, I ended up having to re-do it! I took back numerous presents and exchanged them for something else at several differnt stores, went to 3 different places to get ribbon for wrapping presents. I found some at Target and bought 2 rolls and they barely wrapped any presents. Then I went to Hobby Lobby only to find out at the register the ribbon would be 50% off the next week, so I left empty handed. I went to Babies R Us last week, only to find no shopping carts, and a very un-helpful manager (hello?? Do you not see me struggling holding my toddler, a big diaper bag and a big pregnant belly?!) If a young, pregnant mom of a toddler can't get a little help the week before Christmas in a crowded toy store, by the management, chivalry is 100% dead.

Oh, just thinking about that incident gets me all fired up, so I'll go ahead and tell the story...

I went to Babies R Us to get some stuff for Graham and Charlotte, and even though it was the middle of the week, and the middle of the day, it was packed. As I was getting Graham out of the car, I saw a sketchy looking guy walking into the parking lot, so I decided to hurry in, and get a cart inside (even though there were several in the parking lot) Well, I get inside, only to find one stinking cart in the store which had one of those infant seats on top... not gonna work. So I asked a manager standing right there if I could get a cart. His response? "We don't have any, and there are none outside." I told him I saw several outside, and he said someone just made a run to get all the carts 10 minutes ago. Umm...hello?? There are people coming in and out every 2 seconds, so don't you think in 10 minutes time there would be at least one cart outside?? (I didn't say this, but was thinking it.) I told him again I saw some outside, hoping he would at least look out there and go get one for me. Well, he didn't and I could tell he wasn't going to help, so I said "Don't worry about it, I'll figure it out..." and was about to go all the way out to the parking lot again to get myself a cart, when he asked a woman who was leaving if she was done with her cart. He took it away from her, to give to me, like he was doing me a big favor! I don't think the other lady appreciated getting her cart taken away and having to carry her present outside, but I guess it was just too much trouble for this dude to go a little out of his way. WOW. I was pissed the whole time I was there. Pregnancy hormones may have made it a little worse, but that is pretty freakin' ridiculous if you ask me! Chad offered to go beat him up when I told him what happened, and I was tempted to say YES!! On Sunday, Chad practically stalked this one guy in Kroger the whole time we were there because we saw him park in the pregnancy spot, when he was all by himself. He never found him, but I was a little worried about what would happen if he did. Note to all guys: If there is a woman, especially one that is pregnant how about you stop being selfish for 2 seconds, and open the door for her, get up and let her have your seat when there isn't another one available, don't park in the Expecting Mother's spot at the grocery store, and think about how you would want your pregnant wife/mother/sister/daughter to be treated. And yes, all of those things have happend (or should I say, didn't happen for me at some point during this pregnancy.)

I am just so happy we get to raise a son who will know how to treat women, and will be respectful, kind and courteous. Ok, my little rant is over. I actually feel a little better!

Graham's 2011 Santa Picture

2011-12-19T15:57:00.000-06:00

I think this picture depicts pretty well how terrified our little guy was! We are very mean parents and actually made him sit on Santa's lap twice! There was no line, and I thought maybe he would warm up to the big guy- but no such luck. Oh, well! Maybe next year... :)

Weekly Dinner Menu

2011-12-19T11:05:00.001-06:00

SUNDAY: Smothered Chicken, Salad and Rolls

MONDAY: Slow Cooker Angel Chicken (Chad looooved this meal last time I made it) with Salad, and Angel Hair Pasta

TUESDAY: Shrimp Jambalaya, Rolls and Salad ( I know, we eat a lot of salad!)
Shrimp Jambalaya Recipe:
My sister-in-law, Kara gave me this recipe and it's sooo good.

Ingredients:
1 Can Rotel
1 Can Beef Broth
1 Can French Onion Soup
Tony Chachere's Seasoning
1 bag raw frozen shrimp (peeled, deveined, tail-off)
2 Cups Uncle Ben's Covereted Rice
1/4 Cup butter

Directions:
Preheat Oven to 350
In large non-stick skillet, heat the butter with the rice, until butter is melted and rice is coated
Season with Tony Chachere's to taste and simmer about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally (make sure rice doesn't burn)
Add in the Rotel, french onion soup and beef broth
Add shrimp and stir
Spread in a 9X13 Casserole dish and cover with foil
Bake 30 minutes and stir.
Bake 20 minutes longer and serve!

WEDNESDAY: Leftovers ( We always have plenty of Jambalaya for the next day)

THURSDAY: Meatloaf, Green beans and mashed red potatoes

FRIDAY: Taco Stuffed Shells, Yellow Rice and Beans

SATURDAY: Christmas Eve!!! Going to church and out to dinner with my family, then to Chad's parents house for their Christmas Eve family party.

SUNDAY: Christmas Day!!!! Eating Christmas dinner at my parents house.

26 Weeks

2011-12-19T10:33:00.000-06:00

How Far Along: 26 Weeks

Size of baby: An Eggplant! She's still growing in the 13.6- to 14.8-inch and 1.5- to 2.5-pound range, and developing her senses, features and talents!

Total Weight Gain: 134.7, so I've gained about 10 pounds total so far.

Maternity Clothes: The pair of jeans I bought online last week came in and they are too big. I ordered a size 6, even though my current size is a 4, but I wanted to give myself some extra growing room for the last trimester. I think they're way too big though, so I'll be taking them back.

Gender: I think I'm going to take this question out, since we all know she is a girl! :)

Movement: Bigger movements every week. I feel her a lot in the morning when I first wake up. She also starts kicking a lot if Chad and I are on the couch and he's talking.

Sleep: At night, I'm sleeping good these days, and staying asleep, unless a certain little someone wakes up crying. I am addicted to my pregnancy pillow. I have the boppy one from Target, and I use it in a horseshoe shape. The bigger part goes behind my back and the smaller part under my tummy. The middle supports my legs so my back stays aligned.

What I miss: Sleeping on my back, being able to move around easily and bend over.

Cravings: Pop-tarts! Every morning lately I eat 2 pop-tarts and a glass of milk. I told Chad last night, I seriously look forward to pop-tarts the next morning when I go to bed, haha

Symptoms: The heartburn has been better, and I haven't even taken any medicine for it yet. The big news though, is that I feel like my body is already gearing up for labor. Last week, I started having a lot of braxton hicks. Wednesday morning, I got up from the couch and felt that strong tightening in my stomach. I remember with Graham, I thought he was just stretching, but now I know that it's a contraction. I ran errands all day, and by that evening, I was hurting. I had to rest the rest of the night, and even resting I felt a bunch more. The next day, I decided to take G for a walk, and we didn't get very far when I started to feel strong radiating pains underneath my belly on both sides. I kept walking, hoping they would ease up, but I finally decided to turn back. I kept having braxton hicks on and off the rest of the week, so by Friday I called just to make sure all was well. The nurse assured me it was normal, to drink plenty of water, and that the radiating pain was round ligament pain, which is what I suspected. It was different than the RLP I'd felt in the past, though. Anyway, Chad was supposed to leave town to go hunting all weekend, but we felt it would be better if he was here to help me with Graham. Last night when I tried to get off the couch (I know, it sounds like all I do is lay on the couch--haha) I felt some strong pelvic pain that felt like it was either pressure from the baby or ligaments/muscles being stretched. I feel like I didn't feel any of these symptoms until I was well into the 30 week period with Graham, but I guess for a 2nd pregnancy, it's normal.

Best Moment This Week: Lots of good moments this week: Going to Taste of Texas with good friends for a "See You Later" dinner for our friends Amanda and Brad who are moving back to Mississippi. It was a fun night, but we will miss them so much. Amanda has been doing all our family pictures for the past few months and will be able to do my maternity pictures before they leave!

Best Comment of the Week: I've been getting several comments about how I'm carrying differently this time, which is so true! Weird, how different pregnancies effect your body differently.

What I'm looking forward to: Christmas!! Also, once the holidays have come and gone, we are going to get down to business with her nursery, and I can't wait!

Milestones: Her eyes are forming, and her eyes will soon start to open. Her eyelashes are now grown, too. She's getting her immune system ready for life on the outside by soaking up your antibodies. She's taking breaths, too. They're of amniotic fluid, not air, but it's still good practice.

Our Christmas Card

2011-12-15T09:51:00.000-06:00

From Our Family to Yours...

Life with a Toddler

2011-12-14T10:08:00.003-06:00

First, a little background....

One thing that is really great about Graham right now is that he is easily tricked. Ok, that sounds mean, but I don't use this power for evil, I promise! For example, if I need to change his diaper, and he does NOT want to get on the changing table, I say some thing like, "Oh! Graham!! Let's change your diaper!! In a really excited voice and say "OH do you wanna play with this diaper rash cream?? That would be so fun!!" Then I might have to sing a silly song or something while changing his diaper and it usually works. He starts laughing or gets distracted playing with whatever little item I give him to keep him occupied and usually is fairly still for the whole 2 minute process.

Also, if he is messing or playing with something he shouldn't be, the power of distraction is downright amazing. I'll just tell him he can't play with that, and tell him to go get me his bear or piggy or trucks and tractors book, and he'll stop what he's doing and run off excidedly to go bring it to me. I don't know how long this will last, but it sure works like a charm right now!

So yesterday, I wanted him to try on a hat that I bought him recently. He wasn't having it, and has fussed and yanked it off everytime I've tried. So, I decided to put it on myself first, then I put it on him, and said "Graham!! You look so handsome!!! Let's go see!" So, I picked him up and took him to look at himself in the mirror and oohed and ahhed over how cute he looks, and he ate it up!! The kid loves hats now! Check out the proof...

He literally wanted to wear it all day! Distracting also works really good when I'm trying to get him buckled into his carseat and he is bucking and throwing a fit. This happened the other day and I said in an excited voice "Listen to those birds chirping!! Do you hear that?? What are they saying??" (Birds really were chirping, btw) and just like that, he stopped fussing and listened! Or I'll ask if he wants to play with one of his car toys. He also has a nice little habit of randomly screaming at the top of his lungs when we're out in public, so I taught him to put his finger to his mouth (you know, the quiet sign) and say "Shh Shh Shh" he thinks its so fun, and so I'll do that when he gets a little too loud. This age defnitely has its challenges, (and not to sound smug or that I have it all figured out... that is definitely not the case...) but I kind of feel like right now, I am able to prevent most major meltdowns by keeping my cool and manipulating my toddler into doing what I want, ha!

Weekly Dinner Menu

2011-12-14T09:30:00.002-06:00

MONDAY: Chicken Tortilla Soup-- I finally made this recipe, after I have had it on a few of my weekly menus, but never ended up making it. It turned out delicious!!! I used a store bought rotisserie chicken, which was defnitely the way to go. Sunday we ate the chicken with red potatoes and salad and then I used the leftovers in the soup on Monday.

TUESDAY: Leftover Chicken Tortilla Soup-- still delicious the second day! Graham and I had eggs for dinner because I had the soup for lunch. Chad finished off every bite of the big tupperware bowl (he did end up with some heartburn from all that soup---Lol). He also had 3 bowls the first night, but I don't know how because I thought it was super filling and couldn't even finish one bowl!

WEDNESDAY: Oven Baked Tilapia with Brocolli (Super easy and fairly healthy!), Red Potatoes and Rolls

THURSDAY: Cheeseburger Macaroni (I made this a few weeks ago, we thought it was sooo yummy- especially the homemade cheese sauce!!!), Green beans, Rolls

FRIDAY: Going out to dinner

SATURDAY & SUNDAY: It will just be Graham and I for dinner, so I'm not really planning any meals.

25 Week Belly Pictures

2011-12-13T15:55:00.000-06:00

I decided to just go ahead and post some pictures I took earlier today of my belly, since I can't seem to get my act together at night when Chad usually takes them. I always remember that I need to take them right after I've gotten in my pj's and just think, "Oh I'll just do them tomorrow..." haha, I guess that's not happening! So here is me and Claire at 25 weeks!

I Love a Good Deal!!

2011-12-12T16:57:00.001-06:00

So, like I said in my last post, I am hating all my maternity jeans right now without the full belly panel. I headed to Old Navy this afternoon to pick up another pair of the full panel skinny jeans I wear all the time, but they didn't have my size. I was going to just go to another Old Navy to see if they had them, but decided to look online first. I never shop for my clothes online, but I found the jeans I wanted and saw that they are having a 30% off promo when you type in HOLIDAY at the checkout that ends tomorrow! Also, if you order $50 or more, you have free shipping! At first, I just ordered the jeans, but then I realized if I ordered a $12 shirt, with the free shipping, my total would only come out $3 more than I was spending. So, I called and cancelled my order and placed another order for the skinny jeans and a cute hooded tunic that I can hopefully wear with my black leggings. Altogether, including shipping and tax, my total was $39 which was about $5.00 less than I would've paid in-store for just the jeans! :) Gotta love a good deal, right?

25 Weeks

2011-12-12T09:23:00.004-06:00

How Far Along: 25 Weeks

Size of baby: An Eggplant! During month six, the average fetus measures about 13.6 inches to 14.8 inches and weighs about 1.5 to 2.5 pounds.

Total Weight Gain: I'm at 132.5 so, up 8ish pounds. Looks like I'm gaining about a pound a week right now, which is right on target! Yay!

Maternity Clothes: I am headed to Old Navy today to pick up some more maternity jeans. I tried to wear my favorite pair from my last pregnancy last night and they were soooo uncomfortable!!! I just can't do that band this time around, gotta have the full panel.

Gender: Girl, and I need to get my butt in gear and get this girl some bows!!

Movement: She's getting bigger!! I'm feeling her kick me way up high & down low simultaneously.

Sleep: Well, our son has been having an awful time sleeping these past few nights, so not sleeping good right now!! Fingers crossed but last night was waaay better. He didn't wake up until 4 am and then again around 6 at which point I just brought him in our bed so I could sleep a little longer.

What I miss: Sleeping on my back!

Cravings: Nothing in particular this week.

Symptoms: Heartburn on and off, feeling the weight of my belly and not being able to get around as fast. Also, getting full fast because my stomach is getting squished, I guess. Also, I am pretty sure I felt a little braxton hicks contraction last night. My gums are bleeding when I brush my teeth. Also, I noticed that I don't have the linea nigra this time around. Maybe it will still show up, but when I was pregnant with Graham I had one that went all the way past my belly button. I wonder if it's because hormones when your pregnant with girls and boys are so different? No stretch marks and my belly button is going flat but when I sneeze or cough it kind of pokes out, LOL :)

Best Moment This Week: Hearing her heartbeat on the doppler

Best Comment of the Week: Nothing comes to mind. In fact, I'm not getting many "stranger comments" on my prengancy at all this time around! I don't know if it's the fact that I have a toddler with me most of the time, or because it's winter and I'm wearing more layers my belly isn't as noticible to the average person, or what...but I have to admit I kind of want people to notice and ask about my pregnancy! Is that weird? I find myself working it into a casual conversation, just so I can talk about her!

What I'm looking forward to: Buying her some Christmas presents this week!

Milestones:She's enjoying her new sense of equilibrium -- she now knows which way is up and which is down. She's growing more fat and more hair too!

So neat, I wish we could remember what it's like in there. She can definitely hear us, and she kicked Chad a bunch of times while he was talking to her the other night. I think we may have a "Daddy's girl" on our hands :) She also likes to kick her brother when I'm rocking him at night.

* I promise I will post a belly pic tonight. I've been majorly slacking in that department, the weeks are just flying by!! I really want to document my belly though, so I need to be better!!!

Home Improvement Ideas: Kid's Bathroom

2011-12-09T14:59:00.001-06:00

I've been wanting to update the 2nd bathroom for awhile now. There's nothing wrong with it right now, it's just kind of boring to me. It's brown and cream and it needs a little pop of color. I wanted to wait until we knew what baby #2 would be to decide the color scheme. I decided I wanted to do something bright, fun and very kid-friendly, but still cute enough that our guests could appreciate it :) Since we'll soon have a boy and a girl, I thought blue and pink would be perfect. I found the pottery barn shower curtain on their website today, and I love it! I searched on Target, Walmart and RH baby & Child and nothing else I found matched my vision as well. I think we'll do a green color similar to this for the walls, and I might even attempt to paint the cabinets white.... I want to switch out the mirror in there to a framed mirror. I have a black framed mirror that might work, and I could just spray paint it white. The lighting is fine with me for now. Here is what I have in mind for everything else:

1: Monogrammed towels for Claire and Graham to hang on the towel rack- Pottery Barn Kids

2: Shower Curtain -Pottery Barn Kids

3: Bath Mats- Pottery Barn Kids

4: Light green glass soap dispenser- Target (I've been eyeing this for awhile)

5: Large framed pictures of each of the kids to hang on the wall -( I'll probably find these at Hobby Lobby and spray paint Claire's in pink and Graham's in blue.)

18 Month Check-Up

2011-12-09T10:20:00.002-06:00

This was a week of doctor's visits! Graham had is 18 month check up yesterday, complete with his MMR vaccine. I wanted to wait until he was 18 months to get it since it's a live vaccine and he was a little sick last time we went in for a check-up at 12 months. We had to see a doctor that isn't his regular doctor because he was booked up until January! Since he is 18 months, they asked lots of questions related to austism to see if he has any signs. He passed with flying colors, and he is right on track for everything, including how much sleep, milk and food he's getting. Yay! His ears looked fabulous (as they usually do, she even commented on how he doesn't even have any wax) His lungs sounded perfect and so did his heart and she said he's getting his incsisors in. All in all, my baby boy is developing and growing wonderfully! Such a blessing and a nice reinforcement that we are being good parents :) He is such a little sweetie pie he makes it easy! We came home and ate lunch, then I gave him some tylenol and Graham went down for a 3 hour nap!

Here are his 18 month Stats:

Height: 31" (14.39%) He is a little bit of a shorty, but we are not a family of tall people

Weight: 25 pounds, 12 ounces (48.05%) Right in the middle! He has defnitely caught up in the weight department since he was an infant. This kid does not shy away from meals!

Head Circumference: 18.82" (50.12%)

Me and my baby boy

I spend quite a lot of time each day reading this book :) His favorite right now.

Graham and Dada. Love my boys!!!

Last Weekend

2011-12-09T09:43:00.003-06:00

We had a lot going on last weekend, and we got a lot done! First, we started off Saturday by me finishing up some laundry and getting a few chores done. Then, we started on Claire's room. We loaded up a TON of clothes, lamps, pillows, decorative pictures, and baby items into Chad's truck and he hauled it all off to the Good Will. Then, I organized the rest of the stuff that was in there and put it all into plastic bins to be stored. Her closet still has some wrapping paper, extra pillows and a few boxes in it, but that will all be easily moved into another place for storage.

The room before we sold the furniture

Her room now

A good start on her wardrobe! :)

Still have to figure out where the storage bins will go

The rocking chair I picked up at Good Will for $25! I still have to figure out what color I will paint it. I love it because it's so comfy. It fits me perfectly!

After that was all taken care of, we headed to Val and Brandon's for Grayson's 1st birthday party!

Graham with his 2nd cousins. Grayson is the only boy in his family (his older sisters are Lexi and Lily), so I think he was super excited to be around Graham! :)

After the birthday party, we headed to Sherwin Williams to look at paint colors for Claire's nursery. We settled on a pale pink that matched her bedding the best.The sample looks perfect on the wall, so we will be painting her nursery very soon!! I love that the color is called "Angelic"... perfect for a sweet baby girl. :) Saturday night we visited with the neighbors and Graham played outside with Chad and the little girl who lives next door for awhile, and then I spent the rest of the evening baking cookies and making fudge for the White Elephant party. I'm sad to say my cookies didn't really turn out as planned, so I ended up buying some store bought cookies on Sunday. The fudge turned out pretty good though, and it was my first attempt at making it, so I was happy.

Her wall color!

Sunday, we spent the day getting the house in order for the White Elephant party that night. Everyone came over at 6, so Chad took off with Graham around 5:30. The party was so fun, like it is every year. All the gifts were so cute, and the food was delicious. I have a few pictures, but I was too busy having fun to really take many.

The dessert table. Evertything was delicous! That cheesecake was amazing and so were the cake balls Chad's mom made.

You can see my "melting snowman" cookies in the middle. I'm not very good at doing the icing but they still tasted pretty good.

The food table after we had already dug in. Sooo good!!!

Ok, I think that wraps up the weekend. This weekend we are going to try to knock out the rest of our Christmas shopping, take Graham to see Santa and drive around to see Christmas lights. Love the Christmas season, but it sure is a busy time of year!!!

24 Week Doctor Appointment

2011-12-07T22:39:00.002-06:00

I had my monthly check-up this morning, and everything looks great! Chad couldn't come to this appointment with me, so I dropped Graham off at my parents and went solo. I actually thought to write down several questions I have this time. Usually, when the doctor asks if I have any questions, I forget what I want to ask, and remember on the way home... so frusturating! I asked about the heartburn I've been having and which medicines I could take, and she said I should get an OTC like Zantac or Prevacid and start taking it daily. She said my weight gain was great and my stomach is measuring right on track. Claire's heartbeat was strong and my blood pressure was great, too. I have to do my glucose test within the next 2 weeks. I'll go back to the doctor in a month, and after that I'll be going every 2 weeks. It seems like Claire will be here before we know it!!!

Me and Graham headed to run errands yesterday.....love that penguin hat on him!!!!

On the way home from my parents house today.... so precious!

24 Weeks--- 6 months pregnant!

2011-12-06T10:32:00.001-06:00

I can't believe I am 24 weeks, aka 6 months along!!! I feel like this pregnancy is going by fast now. In just 4 more weeks I'll be in the 3rd trimester, that is insane!!!

How Far Along: 24 Weeks

Size of baby: Still a Papaya

Total Weight Gain: I'm at 131.4, so I've gained about 6 pounds total, which I'm very happy with! At this point, I think 10-15 pound weight gain is normal. I really hope I can be around 25 pounds at delivery!

Maternity Clothes: My favorite maternity jeans are the ones with the full panel. Last time, I loved the ones with the band, but those I keep having to pull up this time. I am wearing mainly maternity shirts now too.

Gender: She better be a girl!

Movement: Lots of kicks and rolls. I am hoping Graham will feel her kick soon, although I know he'll have no idea what's going on. I tried to get him to come over and feel her kick this morning, but he refused.

Sleep: Last night I slept pretty good, but I did have a lot of dreams about her moving/stretching/ having contractions. I wonder if I really was feeling those kicks or not. The night before and another time this week, I woke up in the middle of the night and couldn't go back to sleep for over an hour and a half. Not looking forward to the start of pregnancy insomnia!

What I miss: Sleeping on my back!

Cravings: Nothing in particular this week.

Symptoms: I've been getting some heartburn the past couple of days. I wonder if baby girl will have a full head of hair? ;)

Best Moment this week: Getting Claire's nursery cleaned out/ organized. It still has a ways to go, but we picked a paint color! Sherwin Williams Angelic. It's so pretty, feminine and soft. We love it!!!!

Best comment of the week: Nothing comes to mind.

What I'm looking forward to: I need to go ahead and order Claire's crib and dresser. Hopefully this weekend we will paint her room!

Milestones: Your 10.5-to-11.8-inch fetus weighs about 12.7 to 20.8 ounces and every week she gets closer and closer to being ready to survive (and thrive!) in the outside world. Her see-through skin is gradually becoming more opaque.And it's got a new pink glow, thanks to the small capillaries that have recently formed.

24 weeks is also the point of viability. If Claire were to be born now, she would have a good chance at survivial. Crazy that Josie Duggar was born at this point!!!

Weekly Dinner Menu

2011-12-05T10:29:00.003-06:00

I've been planning a different meal for each night of the week, but I've noticed we always have a ton of leftovers.Chad loves eating leftovers, which is nice! So, instead of carrying over my meals to the next week, I'm going to just account for us having leftovers a few times this week.

MONDAY: Cheesy Chicken Lasagna and Salad

TUESDAY: Leftovers

WEDNESDAY: Chad won't be home for dinner, so I'll probably just pick something up from me and Graham.

THURSDAY: Taco Stuffed Shells

FRIDAY: We have Christmas Party that night, so we'll probably just eat there :)

SATURDAY: Crock-Pot Chicken and Dumplings

This is one of Chad's favorites. I found this recipe online a couple of years ago, but I can't find the link right now, so here's the recipe:

Ingredients:

4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
2 cans condensed cream of chicken soup
1/4 cup carrots, chopped
1 bay leaf
1 chicken bouillion cube
2 cups water
2 (10 oz) cans of refrigerated biscuits

Combine all ingredients in the crockpot (except biscuits, you'll save those for the end). Cover and cook over low heat for 5-6 hours. 30 minutes before serving, tear biscuit dough into 1 inch pieces, and add to crockpot, stirring gently. Cover and cook 30 minutes longer, then serve! Delicious and super easy!

SUNDAY: Chicken Tortilla Soup

18 Months!!!

2011-12-03T19:03:00.001-06:00

Can you believe it? I can't! 18 months old already. Only 6 months until age 2, and only 3 months until Graham's a big brother. How has my baby boy grown so fast?
GROWTH: I have to schedule his 18 month check up still, but by the looks of it, I'd say he's around 27ish pounds. He's wearing size 18 month clothes, 2T is still a little big on him, but 18 mos. pants fit just right. So I'm thinking he's average-small for his height, and avg for his weight. He's in size 5 diapers. He's got the chunkiest little thighs that I could just eat up!

SLEEPING: Still taking 2 naps a day (9a.m.-11ish) and (3ish-5ish) It's kind of sporadic and depending on errands we're running, his nap times vary. But he is still going to bed at 7:30 and sleeping until about 7 a.m. Night wakings pretty much only when teething, or has a super wet diaper.

EATING: This kid is an eater! I hear lots of moms having problems with their kid not eating, but not me! Graham gobbles up pretty much anything you set in front of him. His favorites are bananas (he eats a whole banana every morning) string cheese, chicken nuggets, those gerber meat sticks, grapes, strawberries, apples (any kind of fruit, really) crackers, goldfish (his favorite), any kind of dessert, pototatoes, he even likes veggies! So thankful he is such a good eater. He is still drinking about 3 sippies of milk a day and a bottle before bed. Along with lots of water and the occasional apple juice.

DEVELOPMENT: This kid loves to talk. The past monht, he has started repeating or trying to repeat everything we say! He can now say baby, cow, truck, tractor, hi (his most used word), bubba, mimi, papa, car, and a lot of others. He understands everything, though. I asked him to bring me his yellow car today (it was in his toy basket) and he went a got it! He loves to go outside and will just go the backdoor and bang on it. He loves the Christmas tree, and will occasionally gently touch an ornament, but has been really good with it. His new favorite thing to do is say "Hi!" really loud to anyone and everyone when we're out in public, then frown and act shy when they say hi back. Little stinker! He also loves to run up to me and hug my legs. So sweet!

ISSUES: Still trying to get the concept of not hitting, but he's getting there. He wacked me a couple of times today, actually. He is testing the limits and will do something he knows he's not supposed to just to see how we'll react. Normal toddler stuff. He also tends to get very clingy when I'm trying to make dinner.

He really is the funniest, sweetest, smartest, happiest little boy! He's so loved and cherished. I am such a proud Mama. We love you, Mister! Happy 18 months!!!!

Baby Bragging Moment

2011-12-02T16:54:00.000-06:00

I had to jot down what just happened. Chad got home from work, and hung out with us for a few minutes before going to work out. Graham was running around like a wild banchee child like always, and had taken his morning nap earlier today from 9:30-12ish. Since he'll be 18 months (tomorrow!!!) I have been thinking he's going to grow out of 2 naps a day any time now. Yesterday, he never settled down for his afternoon nap, and since his morning nap today was so long, I figured I just wouldn't put him down this afternoon. Well, right before Chad left, he changed Graham's dipe, then headed out the door. Graham came running into the living room with his bear, and I asked him if he wanted to take a nap (figuring he would shake his head no) and he nodded! I told him we needed to go find his paci, so he started looking for it, then I grabbed one as he ran to his room. As soon as we were in, I started closing the blinds and curtains, and he shuts his door, and runs to his crib. So I lay him down, and he rolls over and doesn't make a peep! He's sound asleep right now. Not sure if this is normal 18 month old behavior, but I'll take it! Guess we'll be staying with 2 naps a day for the time being, which is perfectly fine with this pregnant Mama! :)

23 Weeks

2011-12-01T10:23:00.002-06:00

How Far Along: 23 Weeks

Size of baby: A Papaya

Total Weight Gain: 4-5 Pounds, same as last week

Maternity Clothes: Yep

Gender: Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice!

Movement: I don't think Claire is nearly as active as her big brother, or maybe she's sleeping a lot these days, but I don't notice her too much unless I am being still or just ate or drank something really hot or cold. She's definitely moving on the regular, but maybe I'm just busy playing with & chasing my 18 month old, so I don't notice as much!

Sleep: Sleeping soundly, but I am feeling the backache beginning. With Graham I had a pain in my mid-upper back that hurt constantly. I think I am starting to feel that same pain again. Chad's backrubs and my pregnancy pillow help out though :)

What I miss: Soft cheese, I wanted some mushrooms stuffed with feta so bad at Thanksgiving!!

Cravings: Anything! My appetite is starting to increase and everything is sounding good these days.

Symptoms: Getting harder to bend over, and feeling the pressure from my belly press into my lungs when I'm sitting down.

Best Moment this week: Last Thanksgiving as a family of 3, and hanging Claire's 1st ornament on our Christmas tree!! We even have a stocking for her ready to go, but I think I'm going to wait to get it monogrammed until after she is born.

Best comment of the week: Being told that pregancy really suits me! :)

What I'm looking forward to: Same as last week: Getting Claire's crib skirt and crib sheets in that I orederd; cleaning out/organizing Claire's nursery, and matching a paint color from her bedding to paint the walls!!

Milestones: At about 10.5 to 11.8 inches and about 12.7 to 20.8 ounces, baby's not just getting bigger, she's getting even cuter. She's forming little nipples (yeah, really!) Her face is fully formed now -- she just needs a little extra fat to fill it out. She's listening to your voice and your heartbeat -- and even to loud sounds like cars honking and dogs barking.

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2011-11-30T11:52:00.004-06:00

We've been busy little elves trying to get our house ready for Christmas, and it's coming along! I wanted to get the majority of the decorating done before this Sunday, because I'm hosting a White Elephant party at our house, and a lot of Chad's family hasn't been to our house yet. There are still a few things I want to add, but I'm happy with it. Last year, we had just moved into our house 10 days before Christmas, so we had almost no time or money to decorate. Look at our little tree, it was my parents first Christmas tree they bought when they first got married, so it was in pretty sad shape. We put it on the curb after New Years for the trash men to get, but someone actually ended up picking it up and taking it! The year before that, we had a real tree but we didn't want to risk ruining the carpet, so we picked up an artificial tree (not pre-lit) from Garden Ridge this year. We got a great deal on it, considering it's 9 feet tall. In the past, we've decorated our tree with red, but this year I wanted to do silvers and creams. I saw a Christmas display last year at the Nutcracker Market that really inspired me, and I even picked up a few ornaments last year to try to transition it over to that last year. This year our tree is much more how I envisioned it. I also got a lot of my inspiration from Pinterest, of course :) Ok, onto the pictures.....

The Living Room:

Our new tree! We thought it was a little too big at first, but we have such tall ceilings,we think it's the perfect size now.
I got the silver ball ornaments at big lots for $3 for a pack of 18! I bought 4 boxes.

Entering the living room from the entry hall.

I really love the mantle decorations. It took a while to get them right though. The lighted garland was from Walgreens like 2 years ago, and the stocking are from Target and I had them monogrammed from a local baby boutique. I have one for Claire too, but I'll wait to monogram her's until next year. The stocking hangers are from Hobby Lobby and the cream poinsettas are too (all the candles/candlesticks, seafoam jar and fireplace screen are too). I just pulled the flowers off of a stem I bought and placed them in the garland.

The tree skirt I picked up at Target last year too, and had it monogrammed with our last name.

I love ornaments with special meaning. I picked up this pink "C" and blue "G" at HL. Claire's 1st ornament! :)

Ornaments from the Nutcracker Market

These are my baby shoes. I saw this idea on the blog "Our Happily Ever Afters" and I just happened to have my baby shoes, for Claire's nursery, so I thought it would be cute to put them on our tree.

World Market is also a place I've found cute ornaments.

The Dining Room:

I used a neutral runner from HomeGoodes, and assorted glass candlesticks (3 from Hobby Lobby and 2 were a gift from my Aunt.) The candles are from HL and so are the pinecones and cream poinsettas( the same as on the mantle). I set out our fine china to make it look nice and so it can be seen, since it doesn't get much use :( The silver PEACE I got from World Market. Originally, it was a hanging decoration, but I could never find a good spot for it, so I just cut off the hanging part.

Close up of our fine china (Lenox Venetian Lace). I love it!!!

The other side of the dining room. We haven't really done anything to this room yet, except buy the dining table set, but that's on our home improvement list for next year. We're going to put in wood floors, chair railing, paint, and hang a larger chandelier.

The Kitchen:

We got the chandelier from Overstock a few months ago. It's almost the exact same as this Pottery Barn chandlier, but a fraction of the price! I just put a bunch of pine cones in a wire bowl to make a simple and cheap centerpiece. Both from Hobby Lobby..notice a theme?? haha The bowl was like $8 and the pinecones were like 5, both 50% off.

I put some extra ornaments in these glass apothecary jars I already had.

I used a wreath I already had to go above the window above the sink. It's a little small for the space, but I don't know what I want to put up there yet.

I framed ou Christmas card from last year.

My cute snowman cookie jar I got from a whitle elephant party a couple of years ago.

No southern kitchen is complete without the Southern Living Cookbook :) The picture calendar on the fridge I made on Tiny Prints. Love it!

Kitchen towel monogrammed with "P" I got at the Nutcracker Market last year. I keep it up all year, though.

I added an extra string of lights we had in the wire jar on top of the fridge.

MORE HOME IMPROVEMENTS:

We bought this sideboard table at a local antique store for a really good price several months ago. The basket underneath is from World Market and holds some of Graham's toys.

This side table is actually Chad's great-grandparents. We may buy something else eventually but it's really pretty. The lamp is from HomeGoodes, and the ornament jar will be holding candycanes.

These pillows were recovered by my taleneted Mom several months ago. I picked up the fabric at JoAnn's and a local fabric store. They are all double sided.

Here's the other side of the striped pillow on the far left, and the other side of the cream pillow.

The cream throw is from Target and it's the softest blanket ever!!

In the background, you can see the art niche, we painted it and added framed family pictures.

The entry hall needs something to spruce it up. I'm thinking of adding a little Christmas tree??

(Excuse the bed, our comforter is being dry cleaned.) We recently added curtains to our master bedroom, they are from Target. They're a shade darker than the walls, and they block a lot of light, which will be nice once Claire arrives.

Ok, I think I'm caught up on our house for now! I'm so glad the holidays are here, and I can't wait until there are a ton of presents under our tree.... I need to start shopping asap!!!

Weekly Dinner Menu

2011-11-28T11:03:00.001-06:00

MONDAY: Easy Salsa Chicken, Salad, and Rice

TUESDAY: Meatloaf, Au Gratin Potatoes (boxed) and Green beans (canned)

WEDNESDAY: Grilled Tilapia, Asparagus and New Potatoes

THURSDAY: Poppyseed Chicken with Salad

FRIDAY: Pizza or leftovers

SATURDAY: Lunch: Nachos; Dinner: Go out to eat :)

SUNDAY: I'm having the ladies of the Pokorny side of the family over for our annual White Elephant gift exchange, so I'll be getting ready for that!!! :)

Not a Fun Weekend

2011-11-27T15:48:00.000-06:00

Early Friday morning Chad came down with a stomach bug. I called my parents and they came and picked up Graham as soon as they got home from Tyler so he wouldn't catch it. They kept him overnight and I spent the day taking care of my sick hubby and trying to disinfect the house. Before my parents picked up Graham, I ran with him to the grocery to pick up all the necessities in case we all caught it and then couldn't go to the store. It's the first time since we've been married that any of us caught something like this, so I guess it was bound to happen.

I got bottled water, a bunch of gatorade, 2 different types of pedialyte, milk (just because we were out) lysol disinfecting spray, clorox wipes, baby tylenol, pepto, immodium, new toothbrushes, soup, hand santizers, diapers and jello. I may have gone a little overboard, but I wanted to be as prepared as possible! My parents came and got Graham after he ate lunch, and kept him until the next afternoon. Chad layed on the couch the whole day, but 24 hours later he was feeling back to normal again.

I disinfected and cleaned the whole house top to bottom and I'm almost done washing everything in the house I can/anything Chad touched or slept on. By the time my parents brought Graham back, Chad was feeling perfectly fine, so we went and got a Chrismtas tree and decorated it last night. Chad is not feeling so hot again, I think he may have overdone it yesterday, so he is taking it easy again today. So far Graham and I are feeling great, so I'm praying we dodged the bullet and my disinfecting craziness will pay off. Today we're just laying low. I'm finishing up the laundry and going to try to orgainze some of Claire's nursery. It's a huge mess. I'll update soon with Christmas deocrations and nursery progress. Her bedding still hasn't come in, so hopefully it will be showing up tomorrow, I think the Thanksgiving week slowed down the delivery. Here's a sneak peek of our tree, a little big but we love it!

Turkey Day!!

2011-11-27T14:26:00.000-06:00

Well, we made it to Tyler and checked into our hotel. The last several years we've just shared a hotel with my parents to save money, so they were already there when we arrived. We visited and unpacked and then loaded up and headed to Ann and Kenneth's (Ann is my mom's first cousin) for dinner. We ate pulled pork sandwiches and appetizers and some of my dad's famous chocolate sheet cake. We didn't visit too long, because we needed to get Graham in bed, so the 3 of us headed back to the hotel for the night. Graham has a hard time sleeping in the same room with us, but my saavy hubby rigged a bunch of chairs & blankets together so that he couldn't see us from his pack n' play and it worked out great. Graham even slept through my parents coming in later and an alarm that went off about 4 am that was blaring mexican music! The next morning, Graham had a blast running around watching the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade (a Hastings family tradition) and playing with Papa (my dad) and Chad, while I put together a banana pudding, and then we went to breakfast. We tried to put Graham down for his morning nap, but he wasn't having it. He slept maybe 20 minutes, and I knew he wouldn't be taking an afternoon nap with all the craziness at Ann and Kenneth's later.

We headed to Ann and Kenneth's for Thanksgiving dinner around 1. We decided that we weren't going to stay a 2nd night before we left, because Graham would be overtired and would most likely keep us all up that night. We had so much fun visiting with everyone and eating and chasing Charlotte and Graham around. They wanted to be outside the whole time, so that didn't give us much time to sit and visit as much as we'd like.

Getting all washed up for Thanksgiving!

Daddy thought it would be pretty funny to put my towel around my waste

The kiddos playing outside in the beautiful chilly weather

Looking at old family pictures

My cousin Jessica and her boyfriend

Aunt Patti, Erin and Debra

Mer and I with our cousin, Erin from Baton Rouge

My sister, mom and I

Graham loves his Papa!

We tried to put G down for an afternoon nap with no success, so we headed out about at about 4. We had a nice drive home with no traffic which was awesome. We made it home in time to feed Graham dinner and put him to bed! All in all, a great Thanksgiving! I can't believe next year we will have a 2 1/2 year old and 8 month old in tow! :)

Hitting the road!

Thought this picture was funny...good thing we have dual air control! ;)

On the Road Again

2011-11-23T15:20:00.001-06:00

We are about 1/3 of the way to Tyler. We had a ton of stuff to do this morning before we left so by the time we got in the car I was already tired.

We got up around 7:30 and I fed G breakfast while Chad packed his bag and then I showered and got ready and we went to drop off Chads rental car. He got in a small fender bender backing into a parking space a week or two ago, and so he had to drive a rental while his truck was being fixed. So we dropped off the rental and then went to Gap so Chad could get a few sweaters and long sleeve shirts. After that we picked up the truck and went back to the house to finish packing and feed Graham lunch before we headed out.

I still had to pack for me and Graham so after what seemed like forever we were all loaded up in the car. Graham was a little hyped up so he was yelling and making all kinds of noise even though we were hoping he would nap. I gave him a couple of fries from our chick fil a we picked up and that kept him happy until he finally passed out. He is still asleep and looks so sweet. He is a happy camper for the most part as long as he has his paci and his blue bear. I'm gonna have to get a pink one for Claire I think. He loves to rub the tag on it and has rubbed all the words off.

Last night we went out to dinner because I didn't want to cook and have leftovers that would just go bad since we'll be gone. We went to Carino's (aka Johnny Carino's but I guessed they dropped the Johnny?). We hadn't been in forever. It was soooo good especially the chocolate cake we got for dessert. On the way home we were talking and Graham was being adorable as always and I got so excited to have another little munchkin in the backseat. Of course I am always excited about her but it seems a lot closer now. I'm even excited about giving birth again- crazy.

We're going to start cleaning out and organizing her nursery and closet this weekend and order her furniture, as soon as I make a final decision on it. We're also going to put all the Christmas decorations up this weekend. I have been wanting to do a post about some updates we've made to the house so I'll probably do our Christmas decorations post at the same time.

Ok well I guess that's it. There was really no point to this post I guess, so thanks and congrats if you read all of this...ha!

Happy Thanksgiving!!! Hope everyone has a safe and fun Turkey Day! :)

Picture Post

2011-11-22T16:49:00.002-06:00

Just a few photos from my iPhone I took recently. Graham is so busy and fast these days, I feel like I'm not getting enough pictures of him lately, so I've been trying to be better. My iPhone works the best becasue it takes the picture so fast.

Stopping for some lunch at Mcdonalds on the way back from Austin. How cute is this baby?! Oh my gosh, I love him so much.:

My view these days :) :

Laughing at Daddy doing something silly

Playing in the backyard yesterday afternoon:

Going for a stroll with Mom and Dad today:

Out of Town Wedding

2011-11-22T11:23:00.000-06:00

We hit the road for Austin Friday afternoon to attend the wedding of Chad's cousin, Brent. Chad had a bunch of work to do before we left, so I spent the morning finishing up laundry and packing us up. Graham and I met my SIL Kara for lunch at Panera bread before Chad got home, and then we loaded everything up headed out. We had to stop about 5 times on the 3 hour drive so I could pee, oh the joys of pregnancy :) When we got to my sisters we ate dinner and let the kids play for awhile before putting them down. They are really cute together, and have fun chasing eachother around and stealing toys from eachother. Mer had surgery last week to repair a belly button hernia, so she can't pick up Charlotte right now, which is tough on both of them. When the kids finally got to bed, Graham cried for about 45 minutes before finally passing out. He is not very good with a change in routine, but thankfully he did great the next night when Mer and Randall watched him.

Saturday morning, Mer and I went to see Breaking Dawn. Mer hasn't read any of the books, but she still likes the movies, so we've gone to see the last 3 together. Then we met the boys and babies for lunch before Chad and I had to get ready for the wedding at 5. The wedding was at a vineyard only 10 miles from Mer and Randall's, so it worked out great!

The wedding was really pretty, but it was a tad torturous for me, since I can't have wine :( We hung out until about 9:45, then I had to hit the hay..... We headed out the next morning after Mer made us some delicious banana pancakes. Graham slept the majority of the way home, so that's what counts as a sucessful trip in my mind! We are hitting the road again on Wednesday for Thanksgiving in Tyler, so hopefully Graham will do better than he did last year.

22 Weeks

2011-11-21T20:54:00.002-06:00

How Far Along: 22 Weeks

Size of baby: A Papaya

Total Weight Gain: 4 Pounds

Maternity Clothes: Yes!

Gender: Girl!!

Movement: Feeling her kick above my belly button now. You can see and feel her from the outside too.

Sleep: Sleeping good, but starting to feel the pull from the weight of my belly and my back is starting to hurt. I am a little scared of what it will feel like by the time I am 9 months, it seems like I didn't feel this way as early with Graham.

What I miss: We went to a wedding this weekend and I wanted a glass of wine so bad!

Cravings: I am craving all the delicious Thanksgiving food we will be eating in a couple of days!!! :)

Symptoms: Like I said, my back has been aching, and my belly went through a growth spurt I think. Only maternity pants are comfy and it's starting to get more difficult to bend over. I notice it the most when I'm trying to shave my legs in the shower.

Best Moment this week: Buying Claire's nursery bedding and selling our guest room furniture (Thanks Aunt Pam and Uncle Steve for buying it from us!!!!)

Best comment of the week: On our way to Austin, we had to stop about 5 times so I could pee and as I was walking into a gas station a youg guy opened the door for me and told me congratulations. My first official stranger comment on my pregnancy I think.
.

What I'm looking forward to: Getting Claire's crib skirt and crib sheets in that I orederd; cleaning out/organizing Claire's nursery, and matching a paint color from her bedding to paint the walls!!

Milestones: During month five, the average fetus measures about 10.5 to 11.8 inches and weighs about 12.7 to 20.8 ounces. Now that she's got more developed eyes and lips, she's looking even more like a newborn. She's sleeping in cycles -- about 12 to 14 hours per day (hint: they're probably those times you're not feeling any kicks!)

Fall 2011 Family Pictures

2011-11-17T16:33:00.000-06:00

These were taken by my amazingly talented friend Amanda aka Tibbe Denson Photography for our Christmas mini sessions. I am seriously shocked at how many pictures she got of Graham smiling, no easy feat considering he wanted no part in taking pictures! It was a lot easier a few months ago, but now he is just interested in running around. It didn't help that I scheduled the session right smack in the middle of his nap time, but what can ya do? I already ordered and recieved our Christmas cards from Tiny Prints, just waiting until it's time to send them out!! :)

A Good Read

2011-11-16T10:20:00.001-06:00

I just finished What Women Fear by Angie Smith, and it was so good! I read it for a book study with the women from our Life Group class at church. I could really relate to it, and I think most women could. I love her blog Bring The Rain and I love her relationship with the Lord. What Women Fear is her follow-up to her first book, I Will Carry You which I haven't read, but would love to someday. I highly recommend this book, and if you read it, let me know what you think!!

Malin Dallas Trip

2011-11-15T09:56:00.002-06:00

On Friday, Chad and I flew to Dallas for Malin's 40th Anniversary party. Chad and his dad work at the same company, so we got to travel with his parents too, which is nice. It was actually me and Chad's first time to fly together! We've been to Lake Tahoe, The Bahamas, and Key West together, but we've never flown together, crazy! Anyway, the plane was teeny tiny, but it's a super short flight, so wasn't a big deal. Friday night they had dinner and dancing. Saturday, they had a yummy breakfast and then we went to the Malin headquarters in Dallas and ate lunch and toured the warehouse. Then on Saturday night, they had the big party with a band and dinner and drinks. They had another big breakfast again on Sunday morning before we flew home. It was a fun little getaway, and it was nice getting to meet all the co-workers Chad has talked about before. Chad has been at Malin for 3 years now, and his dad about 17. The hotel was actually in Addison, where Chad and I got engaged. Crazy we were going back with our little Claire Addison on the way. :) My parents kept Graham and spoiled him rotten. My mom said he would sometimes look at the back door and say "Mama" but he did really well. He has started waking up around 6-6:30, though!! :( At least he is still taking 2 naps a day!! He can also now say Chloe and Ty, which are my parents dogs, and Mimi and Papa! We're still working on Grandma and Pepaw.

Chad's parents on the bus to the hotel

Before we headed to dinner

Our view from our room

21 Weeks

2011-11-15T09:33:00.000-06:00

How Far Along: 21 Weeks

Size of baby: A large banana

Total Weight Gain/Loss: This morning I weighed 127.4, so finally up about 3 pounds from my pre-pregnancy weight.

Maternity Clothes: Yes

Gender: Girl!!

Movement: I'm feeling her higher up, so I know she is getting bigger. She's kicked me pretty hard a few times, but mostly still rolling and bunching up in balls

Sleep: Sleeping good!

What I miss: Starting to miss having a flat tummy

Cravings: At this moment, Chick-fil-A is calling my name! :)

Symptoms: My belly button is starting to get flatter.

Best Moment this week: Strangers are noticing now that I'm pregnant. As I'm walking, I catch people looking at my mid section :)

Best comment of the week: Nothing comes to mind
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What I'm looking forward to: Thanksgiving! We have so much to be thankful for!!! And getting to wear maternity pants for Thanksgiving dinner is a bonus ;)

Milestones:At 10.5 inches and about 12.2 ounces, she's big enough now that you've probably been feeling her movements. As her digestive system preps for the outside world, she's manufacturing meconium -- the tarry black substance you'll find in her first dirty diaper (ew)! If it's a girl, she's already got a lifetime's supply of eggs in her womb -- about six million of them!

Weekly Dinner Menu

2011-11-13T19:08:00.003-06:00

MONDAY: Cream Cheese Crock-Pot Chicken, Egg Noodles and Green Beans ( I didn't end up making this last week because we had extra leftovers)

TUESDAY: Grilled Steaks, New Potatoes & Tossed Green Salad

WEDNESDAY: Beef Stroganoff with leftover steak, mushrooms and egg noodles from Monday and Tuesday

THURSDAY: Homemade Chili and Cornbread Muffins

FRIDAY: We're going to Austin this weekend for a family wedding and to visit with my sister!

SATURDAY: Out of town

SUNDAY: Leftover Chili

Recipes I Need to Make

2011-11-13T18:50:00.001-06:00

Broccoli Cheese Soup

Red Chile Sauce Enchiladas

Chicken Toritlla Soup

The Best Chocolate Cake

Citrus Water Punch