Success!
This weekend went very smoothly and I would say that our family had a great time.
Wednesday was a little chaotic for me. I was finishing up some of my cooking that I had promised my mom I would do for dinner that night. It's a little hectic when you have a 15 month old running between your feet. That trickiest part was getting the pies in the oven, transferring them from rack to rack as I adjusted the temperature and their place in the oven. Baking two pies at once can be challenging. My oven didn't do such a great job last year. I think it took me almost twice as long as it was supposed to take. This year was different, thankfully! My pies turned out beautifully in the proper amount of time!
Andrew made it home from work just in time for the three of us to pile in the car, load it up with all the food I had made, games and other essentials and head to my parents house for the Kefgen Thanksgiving dinner.
Jacob and Megan were there along with my Grandma as well. We did some finishing touches on the dishes we had all prepared and sat down to a beautiful and delicious meal. Everything tasted fantastic.
Judah refused his dinner as he has been doing lately. He's not into it for some reason and I'm not sure why. He loves breakfast and usually eats a good amount at lunch. He has two snacks during the day and drinks a lot of milk as well. I'm wondering if he is eating too much at his other meals and is too full by dinner...
Anyway, Judah was ready for bed at about 6:30. I went ahead and gave him his bath and put him down at about 7. He slept great over there! Us adults were able to play this fun game that my parents got at some 2nd hand store for about 50 cents. It was really entertaining! Megan's delicious pumpkin pie followed and then we kind of just sat back and let our tummies digest everything we had put into them.
I was getting so tired by about 9:30 since I had gotten up with Judah around 5:45 that morning. We decided we had better head out since we had to take my Grandma home too. We got everything loaded up into the car and I think we made it home by around 10:30 or 11.
Thanksgiving day was spent with Andrew's family. We headed over to Rick and Cheryl's after Judah got up from his nap around 2 pm. Andrew's Grandparents, his aunt and uncle and Erica and Paul were over there as well. We were missing a few family members of course, but we had a nice afternoon and evening. Football was watched, turkey was eaten (over and over), boys played together, boys fell asleep super easy. All in all, it was a nice Thanksgiving. We were pooped again around 9 so we headed out.
On Friday we started our Christmas decorating. We spent the morning listening to Christmas music and putting up a few of our decorations. Judah liked the addition of the garland and string of lights in the living room. Andrew and I had a chance to have some alone time together in honor of our anniversary. Judah was dropped off at Rick and Cheryl's in the early afternoon. Andrew and I went to see A Christmas Carol in 3D. It was a fun Christmas movie. We walked around the Everett Mall a little bit too and it was very surprisingly not busy at all! It was probably like any other "busy" Saturday for them. We spent the rest of the evening relaxing at home, ordered a pizza from our favorite place - Romio's, and watched Four Christmases. I got to sleep in the next morning which hasn't happened in ages! We decided to get a little Christmas shopping done before we went to pick up the boy. We decided to go to Target first to get some Christmas lights and ended up doing all of our shopping there. No need for the crazy mall! Once again, we shopped in Everett and therefore Target was hardly busy at all and very easy to navigate. Picked up the boy in the late afternoon and spent the rest of the evening straightening up the house and putting some Christmas lights outside on our patio. Now there is a warm glow outside. Can't wait to have that same glow inside the house when we get our tree put up next weekend!
Today was a rough day for me. We made it to church finally!! It's so frustrating to me how few and far between our trips to church are. Life is just so much more complicated when a person has a child.
I was so uncomfortable today! It literally felt like Audrey was dancing on my bladder. I kept having to go to the bathroom but when I would go I really didn't have to go at all. My pants felt way too tight and it hurt me to sit in church for as long as I did. I was squirming the whole time and I was really tired too, so I kept having to pry my eyes open. I couldn't wait to get out of there, which is ridiculous because we haven't been in weeks and weeks! When we got home, Judah was ready for a nap so I decided to take advantage of that and take a nap at the same time. I ended up sleeping for 3 hours! I must say that the nap was the highlight of my day. It felt amazing to sleep that well. When I got up it was time to head over to Rick and Cheryl's again for Josh's birthday party. I still wasn't feeling great. Just uncomfortable and yucky in general. The thought of trying to put on something other than my pj pants sounded terrible so Andrew told me to stay home. I didn't really want to miss out on hanging out with the family, but staying home just sounded like the best thing. So I did. I couldn't stop thinking about chocolate so I decided that for dinner I would go get myself a blizzard from DQ. Oh the things you can do while still wearing your pjs! The drive thru is one of them!
It was a long weekend, which was very nice. I like having time with both Andrew and Judah together. Tomorrow it's back to the daily grind!
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Monday, November 23, 2009
It's Thanksgiving Time!
I was so excited to get started on my Thanksgiving baking and shopping this year! I love making pumpkin pie. It's one of the highlights of the holidays for me. This year, since we are celebrating Thanksgiving with my family on Wednesday and Thanksgiving day with the Michels, I will be making several dishes. I am taking a cranberry orange chutney, candied yams, and mashed potatoes to my parents' house on Wednesday. Thursday I will be bringing two delicious pumpkin pies to the Michels' house.
With all of this cooking, I had to start early. This afternoon, while Judah was taking his nap, I started on my pie crusts. I am so happy because I came up with two new techniques that proved to make the job much easier and more efficient.
I used my food processor to blend the flour mixture with the shortening and butter instead of doing it by hand. The dough ended up being much more evenly blended and there wasn't a pile of flour at the bottom of the bowl when I was done mixing the rest of the ingredients together. Then I rolled the dough out on a sheet of wax paper which kept my counter top from getting too messy. To place the dough into the pie plate, I simply inverted the wax paper and pushed the dough into the plate. Quite simple and much less mess!
Now my crusts are freezing until Wednesday when I will assemble the pie fillings and bake the pies.
Tomorrow I will make the chutney and the yams so that I have minimal work to do on Wednesday.
I love holiday cooking and baking!
Tomorrow is also mine and Andrew's 3rd anniversary. At times it feels like much more time has passed than just 3 years, only because so much has happened. These 3 years have been the best of my life. I wouldn't trade them for anything. I can't wait to see what the future holds for Andrew and I and our little family.
With all of this cooking, I had to start early. This afternoon, while Judah was taking his nap, I started on my pie crusts. I am so happy because I came up with two new techniques that proved to make the job much easier and more efficient.
I used my food processor to blend the flour mixture with the shortening and butter instead of doing it by hand. The dough ended up being much more evenly blended and there wasn't a pile of flour at the bottom of the bowl when I was done mixing the rest of the ingredients together. Then I rolled the dough out on a sheet of wax paper which kept my counter top from getting too messy. To place the dough into the pie plate, I simply inverted the wax paper and pushed the dough into the plate. Quite simple and much less mess!
Now my crusts are freezing until Wednesday when I will assemble the pie fillings and bake the pies.
Tomorrow I will make the chutney and the yams so that I have minimal work to do on Wednesday.
I love holiday cooking and baking!
Tomorrow is also mine and Andrew's 3rd anniversary. At times it feels like much more time has passed than just 3 years, only because so much has happened. These 3 years have been the best of my life. I wouldn't trade them for anything. I can't wait to see what the future holds for Andrew and I and our little family.
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Richly Blessed
I feel so blessed in life. Sometimes I can't believe how much God has given me. I was scanning through some old pictures of our family tonight. Every day I am filled with more and more gratitude for my little boy. He brings so much joy and delight to my life and to my husband's life as well. Every day that I get to spend with him is such a blessing. He brings a smile to my face and it is impossible not to be happy when he is around. He is such a sweetheart.
I am of course saying all of these things as a biased mother. I just can't help but feel so grateful to God that He gave Andrew and I this precious, healthy, happy, smart, lively little boy to take care of. The most joyous part of being a parent is having the opportunity to watch your child grow and develop. These past few months have been so much fun with Judah. He learns new words all the time and I just love hearing him practice. Right now he has learned to say "God!" and "car". He has been saying "ball" for about 4 months now. That is by far is favorite word. He also loves to say up. He loves to go UP the stairs, he loves to climb UP onto the ottoman, and most of all he loves to run to me, wrap his arms around my legs and say UP! It just melts my heart. He is working hard on saying kitty, but when he can't get the full word out, he calls our cat "Dee" for short.
He really has his own little language that he uses to communicate his point to us when he is trying to tell us something. It's so funny to hear him jumble together words and sounds when he is telling us that he wants more of a particular food. It's so obvious what he is trying to say, but he just doesn't know how to put it together.
I could go on and on.
I just feel so blessed and so thankful to God for my son. He is a light in my life. He is living proof that God loves me. He is evidence of God's grace, mercy and blessing. I feel so privileged that Judah has been entrusted to my care.
I was thinking tonight as I noted my ever increasing belly that this baby girl is going to be just as precious as Judah. It's so hard to imagine my baby when she is inside the womb. I don't know her personality or her face or her likes and dislikes. I just know that I love her and that she too is a gift. One day soon she will be doing all of the same things that Judah is doing now, but with her own style and grace of course. When she arrives, our world is going to change again so drastically. It is hard to remember what life was like before Judah arrived. Everything will be turned upside down when our sweet little Audrey June comes into the world. We won't remember much of what it was like to just be the three of us. It's going to feel like we are really a little family with four members.
I have less than 90 days to go! I will be holding her and loving her sweet little self before I even know it.
I am of course saying all of these things as a biased mother. I just can't help but feel so grateful to God that He gave Andrew and I this precious, healthy, happy, smart, lively little boy to take care of. The most joyous part of being a parent is having the opportunity to watch your child grow and develop. These past few months have been so much fun with Judah. He learns new words all the time and I just love hearing him practice. Right now he has learned to say "God!" and "car". He has been saying "ball" for about 4 months now. That is by far is favorite word. He also loves to say up. He loves to go UP the stairs, he loves to climb UP onto the ottoman, and most of all he loves to run to me, wrap his arms around my legs and say UP! It just melts my heart. He is working hard on saying kitty, but when he can't get the full word out, he calls our cat "Dee" for short.
He really has his own little language that he uses to communicate his point to us when he is trying to tell us something. It's so funny to hear him jumble together words and sounds when he is telling us that he wants more of a particular food. It's so obvious what he is trying to say, but he just doesn't know how to put it together.
I could go on and on.
I just feel so blessed and so thankful to God for my son. He is a light in my life. He is living proof that God loves me. He is evidence of God's grace, mercy and blessing. I feel so privileged that Judah has been entrusted to my care.
I was thinking tonight as I noted my ever increasing belly that this baby girl is going to be just as precious as Judah. It's so hard to imagine my baby when she is inside the womb. I don't know her personality or her face or her likes and dislikes. I just know that I love her and that she too is a gift. One day soon she will be doing all of the same things that Judah is doing now, but with her own style and grace of course. When she arrives, our world is going to change again so drastically. It is hard to remember what life was like before Judah arrived. Everything will be turned upside down when our sweet little Audrey June comes into the world. We won't remember much of what it was like to just be the three of us. It's going to feel like we are really a little family with four members.
I have less than 90 days to go! I will be holding her and loving her sweet little self before I even know it.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Exercise - it's good for the body!
Yesterday I decided that I had gone long enough without exercising. For fear of becoming a total lard butt during this pregnancy, I made the decision to get my body moving. When I was pregnant with Judah, I went to the gym about 3 times a week doing cardio and weights. It was great for me. I felt like my body was in really good shape.
Needless to say, I don't have a lot of time to exercise at the gym these days. I can get out and push the stroller around, but I find it to be less satisfying than going to the gym. With the morning sickness and fatigue I was having for the first 4 months of pregnancy, I pretty much didn't feel like doing anything at all.
Anyway, yesterday I looked up the on demand workouts on our cable menu and found a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader workout. It ended up being pretty great. At first I thought it would be too intense for me and my growing belly, but I really liked it. I was feeling sore when I got up this morning which is always a good sign. Then I decided that I should get out and take a walk with Judah. Getting out of the house in the morning seems to help the day move a little more quickly and I know that Judah and I are both happier when we get out of the house.
I went to McCollum Park and walked around their track 3 times. I think I went about 2 miles! (The track is bigger than a standard track and field track.) I am planning on doing this more often so that I can keep moving. I really don't want to be out of shape, gasping for air when I'm in labor. They say that the better shape you're in before you have your baby, the easier labor will be on you. Gotta keep moving!
Other than that, I've been having a tough time with Judah lately. It seems like as soon as Andrew walks in the door and I start making dinner, Judah needs all of my attention. He doesn't want to be with Andrew, he wants me and me only. The second I start chopping vegetables and getting dinner ready, he pretty much turns into one giant meltdown. It's been very trying for me in a lot of ways. I just don't understand it, because I spend all day with him. We do everything together. Why is it that as soon as I am unavailable to his every need, he becomes hysterical? It makes me feel like I'm not doing enough for him as it is. I wish I understood the toddler mind a little bit better. Lately from dinner time until bed time it has been really stressful in our house. Andrew and I are both burned out from a long day, Judah is in tears barely able to eat his dinner because he's so hysterical, and the night turns into a sobfest for me because I feel so overwhelmed. It has honestly felt like it did when Judah was 2 or 3 months old when all he wanted to do was nurse and be held by me and didn't want anything to do with anything else.
Oh the joys of motherhood. I know this is a phase, but whenever I'm in a "phase", it seems like the phase is going to last forever. Just praying for some wisdom on how to deal with this situation and how to best parent Judah through this time. I'll probably wish for this time back, just like I wish for those times back when Judah was that little. It would just make it a whole lot easier if this little boy came with some sort of a guide so that I knew what I was doing.
Well, Andrew is leaving town again tomorrow. Company retreat in Leavenworth until Friday, then Judah and I are going over to meet up with him and his family. Not looking forward to him being away again, but such is life. The weekend will be fun! Supposed to be snow in the pass this week, so praying that we'll have a safe drive.
Needless to say, I don't have a lot of time to exercise at the gym these days. I can get out and push the stroller around, but I find it to be less satisfying than going to the gym. With the morning sickness and fatigue I was having for the first 4 months of pregnancy, I pretty much didn't feel like doing anything at all.
Anyway, yesterday I looked up the on demand workouts on our cable menu and found a Dallas Cowboys Cheerleader workout. It ended up being pretty great. At first I thought it would be too intense for me and my growing belly, but I really liked it. I was feeling sore when I got up this morning which is always a good sign. Then I decided that I should get out and take a walk with Judah. Getting out of the house in the morning seems to help the day move a little more quickly and I know that Judah and I are both happier when we get out of the house.
I went to McCollum Park and walked around their track 3 times. I think I went about 2 miles! (The track is bigger than a standard track and field track.) I am planning on doing this more often so that I can keep moving. I really don't want to be out of shape, gasping for air when I'm in labor. They say that the better shape you're in before you have your baby, the easier labor will be on you. Gotta keep moving!
Other than that, I've been having a tough time with Judah lately. It seems like as soon as Andrew walks in the door and I start making dinner, Judah needs all of my attention. He doesn't want to be with Andrew, he wants me and me only. The second I start chopping vegetables and getting dinner ready, he pretty much turns into one giant meltdown. It's been very trying for me in a lot of ways. I just don't understand it, because I spend all day with him. We do everything together. Why is it that as soon as I am unavailable to his every need, he becomes hysterical? It makes me feel like I'm not doing enough for him as it is. I wish I understood the toddler mind a little bit better. Lately from dinner time until bed time it has been really stressful in our house. Andrew and I are both burned out from a long day, Judah is in tears barely able to eat his dinner because he's so hysterical, and the night turns into a sobfest for me because I feel so overwhelmed. It has honestly felt like it did when Judah was 2 or 3 months old when all he wanted to do was nurse and be held by me and didn't want anything to do with anything else.
Oh the joys of motherhood. I know this is a phase, but whenever I'm in a "phase", it seems like the phase is going to last forever. Just praying for some wisdom on how to deal with this situation and how to best parent Judah through this time. I'll probably wish for this time back, just like I wish for those times back when Judah was that little. It would just make it a whole lot easier if this little boy came with some sort of a guide so that I knew what I was doing.
Well, Andrew is leaving town again tomorrow. Company retreat in Leavenworth until Friday, then Judah and I are going over to meet up with him and his family. Not looking forward to him being away again, but such is life. The weekend will be fun! Supposed to be snow in the pass this week, so praying that we'll have a safe drive.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
And now it REALLY feels like fall
We had such a beautiful summer this year. I must say that this week I haven't minded the weather forecast at all. We have been without much rain for a good part of this year. I haven't minded that one bit. It's been absolutely fantastic to wake up with the sun shining these last few months.
Now that fall is in full swing, we are into our rainy season and I feel that I'm ready for it. The trees are swaying, beginning to lose their leaves. It's beautiful!
Makes me want to cozy up in our warm house with a nice warm blanket and keep the house full of lit candles so that everything feels like it's glowing.
I am looking forward to spending a weekend in Leavenworth with Andrew's family in a few weeks. The company is going to be having their annual retreat at a cabin east of the mountains and they have it reserved through the weekend of Halloween. This is the nice thing about a family business. We get to have little treats like this every now and then. So after all of the non family employees leave, everyone's spouse (and child, if applicable) is welcome to come to Leavenworth and spend the weekend. It's going to be fun!
We did the same thing last year when Judah was just an itty bitty 2 month old. It was fun then, so I'm sure it will be even more fun this time. We are thinking of taking Judah trick or treating in town on Halloween. I'll need to get him a costume of course.
Today Judah and I had to miss Bible study. I really hate when that happens, but he's had a bad cough the last few days and I still can't seem to get over my cold either. I thought it had passed, but then I had a killer soar throat yesterday and have been fighting other symptoms today. So we stayed in all day.
I was able to take a nap with him, which is always nice. I made a delicious dinner too - scalloped potatoes and bratwurst. Then I finally made the pumpkin cream cheese muffins I've been eyeing from someone else's blog that I have been following. They were absolutely divine. Andrew and I both had 2 muffins each after dinner. So sinful!
I'm hoping that we are both feeling better tomorrow and can actually get out of the house. I need to take a gift to my best friend. Surprise, Rachel is pregnant! I am so excited! This is something we've talked about for years - having babies together. Now we actually get to do it! She is due in early June - the 7th, I believe. Our little ones will be about 4 months apart. I'm so happy to be able to share this time in life with her! What a blessing!
Now that fall is in full swing, we are into our rainy season and I feel that I'm ready for it. The trees are swaying, beginning to lose their leaves. It's beautiful!
Makes me want to cozy up in our warm house with a nice warm blanket and keep the house full of lit candles so that everything feels like it's glowing.
I am looking forward to spending a weekend in Leavenworth with Andrew's family in a few weeks. The company is going to be having their annual retreat at a cabin east of the mountains and they have it reserved through the weekend of Halloween. This is the nice thing about a family business. We get to have little treats like this every now and then. So after all of the non family employees leave, everyone's spouse (and child, if applicable) is welcome to come to Leavenworth and spend the weekend. It's going to be fun!
We did the same thing last year when Judah was just an itty bitty 2 month old. It was fun then, so I'm sure it will be even more fun this time. We are thinking of taking Judah trick or treating in town on Halloween. I'll need to get him a costume of course.
Today Judah and I had to miss Bible study. I really hate when that happens, but he's had a bad cough the last few days and I still can't seem to get over my cold either. I thought it had passed, but then I had a killer soar throat yesterday and have been fighting other symptoms today. So we stayed in all day.
I was able to take a nap with him, which is always nice. I made a delicious dinner too - scalloped potatoes and bratwurst. Then I finally made the pumpkin cream cheese muffins I've been eyeing from someone else's blog that I have been following. They were absolutely divine. Andrew and I both had 2 muffins each after dinner. So sinful!
I'm hoping that we are both feeling better tomorrow and can actually get out of the house. I need to take a gift to my best friend. Surprise, Rachel is pregnant! I am so excited! This is something we've talked about for years - having babies together. Now we actually get to do it! She is due in early June - the 7th, I believe. Our little ones will be about 4 months apart. I'm so happy to be able to share this time in life with her! What a blessing!
Friday, October 9, 2009
There has never been a greater love....
I am loving this song right now.
No, Not One
By Christy Nockels
No better word than from Your lips
No perfect life than what You lived
No greater gift, no not one
No brighter star has ever shined
No better hope for all mankind
No higher mind, no not one
No one has ever known
This kind of love You've shown
There has never been a greater love
Than Your son
No, Not one
And there will never be a name above
No, Not one
With His life You have forgiven us
Hope has come
Hope has come
And there will never be a greater love
No, Not one
No image true or sweeter frame
No simple word can match Your name
No greater fame
No not one
No one has ever seen
The depth of Your majesty
No greater call - You gave us all a reason to live
No greater love - You gave us all a reason to give
No greater life - You gave us all a reason to shine
No greater love - forever mine!
No, Not One
By Christy Nockels
No better word than from Your lips
No perfect life than what You lived
No greater gift, no not one
No brighter star has ever shined
No better hope for all mankind
No higher mind, no not one
No one has ever known
This kind of love You've shown
There has never been a greater love
Than Your son
No, Not one
And there will never be a name above
No, Not one
With His life You have forgiven us
Hope has come
Hope has come
And there will never be a greater love
No, Not one
No image true or sweeter frame
No simple word can match Your name
No greater fame
No not one
No one has ever seen
The depth of Your majesty
No greater call - You gave us all a reason to live
No greater love - You gave us all a reason to give
No greater life - You gave us all a reason to shine
No greater love - forever mine!
Thursday, October 8, 2009
It's a girl!
We finally found out, after what seemed like an eternity of waiting, that we are having a baby girl in February. We are so excited! A girl brings a whole new world of change to our lives. I don't even know where to begin!
I have to admit that I am a lot more fearful this time than I was when we found out we were having a boy. Is it because girls are so fragile and seem to be damaged much more easily than boys? I think so. Boys seem to bounce back from the things that life throws their way. I think girls tend to take things to heart a lot more. Another thing I have noted in this past year of being a mom is that boys will always, always love their mama.
I think that girls tend to have a lot more issues concerning their mother. Perhaps it is because we as humans look up to our same sex parent the most. Maybe women are disappointed more by their mothers than their fathers because they expect the most from them. I'm not saying that all women have a bad relationship with their mom. And I can certainly say that my relationship with my own mother is good and has come a long way in the past 5 years.
Whatever the case may be, all I can do is pray that God prepares me to be a wonderful, loving mother to this baby girl. That I can be her teacher, her comfort, her friend, her confidant and most of all someone who she is proud to call mom. I know I can't be perfect, and that is why I am thankful for Christ's blood, which covers over my imperfections.
All of the worries aside, I can't wait to teach my little girl how to make cookies, how to braid her hair, how to put on makeup, how to talk to a boy, how to be a good friend, how to give lots of hugs to people she loves, how to be confident in life, and most of all how to let Christ's love shine through her to those around her.
Thank you Jesus, for this amazing blessing and opportunity to raise this baby girl up to know and love you.
I have to admit that I am a lot more fearful this time than I was when we found out we were having a boy. Is it because girls are so fragile and seem to be damaged much more easily than boys? I think so. Boys seem to bounce back from the things that life throws their way. I think girls tend to take things to heart a lot more. Another thing I have noted in this past year of being a mom is that boys will always, always love their mama.
I think that girls tend to have a lot more issues concerning their mother. Perhaps it is because we as humans look up to our same sex parent the most. Maybe women are disappointed more by their mothers than their fathers because they expect the most from them. I'm not saying that all women have a bad relationship with their mom. And I can certainly say that my relationship with my own mother is good and has come a long way in the past 5 years.
Whatever the case may be, all I can do is pray that God prepares me to be a wonderful, loving mother to this baby girl. That I can be her teacher, her comfort, her friend, her confidant and most of all someone who she is proud to call mom. I know I can't be perfect, and that is why I am thankful for Christ's blood, which covers over my imperfections.
All of the worries aside, I can't wait to teach my little girl how to make cookies, how to braid her hair, how to put on makeup, how to talk to a boy, how to be a good friend, how to give lots of hugs to people she loves, how to be confident in life, and most of all how to let Christ's love shine through her to those around her.
Thank you Jesus, for this amazing blessing and opportunity to raise this baby girl up to know and love you.
Sunday, September 20, 2009
Birthday, Birthday!
I am fast approaching my 25th birthday. This makes me feel old. Ever since I turned 21, it seems as though I feel more and more ancient with each birthday. Especially now that I'll be a married mother of 2 by the time I turn 26 next year. Craziness! Never thought this is where I would be at this point in life.
Life tends to take a lot of different turns that can't always be anticipated. This is not to say that I don't have an amazing life. I am so incredibly blessed. But in my wildest dreams, I never would have imagined that I would be pregnant with my 2nd child at 25. I probably wouldn't have guessed that I would even be married!
But life is good and I wouldn't go back and change a thing about it.
We got the birthday festivities started tonight. Andrew's parents threw a party for all of us September birthdays in the family. My brother-in-law, Paul, and my sister-in-law, Cora, as well as my little brother (by way of Andrew, and technically my brother-in-law as well), Seth, also have September birthdays. So we had dinner and gift exchanging together. Fun fun!
What do I hope this year holds in store for me?
I hope that I can genuinely be transformed by the power of God's word as I take part in my Bible study that began last week. I hope that God's word will affect me strongly and that it will trickle down into my marriage and the parenting of my son. I hope that I will feel confident and at peace about bringing another child into the world. I hope that I can be a bringer of life and encouragement to people around me in everyday life.
I'm excited to see where I will be at one year from now. I've come a long way from last year and as I type that I have a genuine smile on my face. Remembering where I was and realizing how God has carried me through this past year is so encouraging. Makes me feel like I can do anything with His help.
Looking forward to my birthday dinner with Andrew and some close friends next Sunday, which is of course my actual birthday. The Melting Pot......mmmmmm!
I've been meaning to post a few pictures of some fun we had a few weeks ago. Andrew and I decided to take Judah to the splash park at Forest Park as a last hurrah to summer. The splash park was only going to be open for another week or so, and summer is quickly drawing to a close. In fact, today is the first day of fall! So here are a few pictures from the splash park. Although Judah seems more and more like a big boy here at home, I was quickly reminded of how small he still is while he ran around through the water. I had to help him watch out for the big kids.
Life tends to take a lot of different turns that can't always be anticipated. This is not to say that I don't have an amazing life. I am so incredibly blessed. But in my wildest dreams, I never would have imagined that I would be pregnant with my 2nd child at 25. I probably wouldn't have guessed that I would even be married!
But life is good and I wouldn't go back and change a thing about it.
We got the birthday festivities started tonight. Andrew's parents threw a party for all of us September birthdays in the family. My brother-in-law, Paul, and my sister-in-law, Cora, as well as my little brother (by way of Andrew, and technically my brother-in-law as well), Seth, also have September birthdays. So we had dinner and gift exchanging together. Fun fun!
What do I hope this year holds in store for me?
I hope that I can genuinely be transformed by the power of God's word as I take part in my Bible study that began last week. I hope that God's word will affect me strongly and that it will trickle down into my marriage and the parenting of my son. I hope that I will feel confident and at peace about bringing another child into the world. I hope that I can be a bringer of life and encouragement to people around me in everyday life.
I'm excited to see where I will be at one year from now. I've come a long way from last year and as I type that I have a genuine smile on my face. Remembering where I was and realizing how God has carried me through this past year is so encouraging. Makes me feel like I can do anything with His help.
Looking forward to my birthday dinner with Andrew and some close friends next Sunday, which is of course my actual birthday. The Melting Pot......mmmmmm!
I've been meaning to post a few pictures of some fun we had a few weeks ago. Andrew and I decided to take Judah to the splash park at Forest Park as a last hurrah to summer. The splash park was only going to be open for another week or so, and summer is quickly drawing to a close. In fact, today is the first day of fall! So here are a few pictures from the splash park. Although Judah seems more and more like a big boy here at home, I was quickly reminded of how small he still is while he ran around through the water. I had to help him watch out for the big kids.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
TARANTULA!!!
Clearly I am exaggerating a bit with the title of this post, but seriously....
This morning I felt more terror than I have in a long time. I'll start from the beginning -
Last night Andrew and I got home from our trip to Las Vegas. I arrived home first in my car. (We had taken separate cars to the airport because he left a day before me.)
I came in the house and began unloading the luggage. Bauer, our dear sweet cat, who had been cooped up in the house for three days, was meowing like a banshee to go outside. I let him out and when I opened the door I noticed a decently sized brown spider right by the front door. I was happy that I found it, and that it didn't find me while I was relaxing on the couch late at night. I quickly squashed it and went to close the door when I looked closely and noticed there were two more spiders right by the front door! Both were much smaller, but I couldn't believe there were so many right there! I wasn't too creeped out after that because I figured I had killed three, how many more could there be in the house? Zero, I thought.
This morning was a bright and cheery one. I hadn't seen Judah since Sunday night. We had a nice morning together. After he finished breakfast we were playing together on the living room floor. For a split second I remembered the spiders I had killed the night before and hoped there weren't any more in the house. I decided to glance around the room just to be sure.
To my utter horror, two feet from me was the biggest, ugliest, most disgusting wolf spider I have ever seen in my life. I let out a shriek, grabbed my child and ran into the kitchen. Judah was absolutely terrified of my screams. He started crying right away. But I had to kill the beast!
I placed him in his high chair so that he was out of harm's way. I had to kill this monster. I ended up playing a cat and mouse game with the nasty creature while it ran from couch to couch. I was finally able to suck it up with the vacuum as it attempted one final getaway.
I am still shuddering. I keep finding myself glancing around the room expecting to see yet another tarantula running my way. Let's hope that was the last one.
This morning I felt more terror than I have in a long time. I'll start from the beginning -
Last night Andrew and I got home from our trip to Las Vegas. I arrived home first in my car. (We had taken separate cars to the airport because he left a day before me.)
I came in the house and began unloading the luggage. Bauer, our dear sweet cat, who had been cooped up in the house for three days, was meowing like a banshee to go outside. I let him out and when I opened the door I noticed a decently sized brown spider right by the front door. I was happy that I found it, and that it didn't find me while I was relaxing on the couch late at night. I quickly squashed it and went to close the door when I looked closely and noticed there were two more spiders right by the front door! Both were much smaller, but I couldn't believe there were so many right there! I wasn't too creeped out after that because I figured I had killed three, how many more could there be in the house? Zero, I thought.
This morning was a bright and cheery one. I hadn't seen Judah since Sunday night. We had a nice morning together. After he finished breakfast we were playing together on the living room floor. For a split second I remembered the spiders I had killed the night before and hoped there weren't any more in the house. I decided to glance around the room just to be sure.
To my utter horror, two feet from me was the biggest, ugliest, most disgusting wolf spider I have ever seen in my life. I let out a shriek, grabbed my child and ran into the kitchen. Judah was absolutely terrified of my screams. He started crying right away. But I had to kill the beast!
I placed him in his high chair so that he was out of harm's way. I had to kill this monster. I ended up playing a cat and mouse game with the nasty creature while it ran from couch to couch. I was finally able to suck it up with the vacuum as it attempted one final getaway.
I am still shuddering. I keep finding myself glancing around the room expecting to see yet another tarantula running my way. Let's hope that was the last one.
Friday, September 11, 2009
Tired Day
Let's see...
This morning I woke up way too early, even before Andrew's alarm went off. I tried my best to fall back to sleep but could not for the life of me. I ended up being awake for the day around 6:30 am. Not good considering Andrew and I stayed up until midnight watching The Office.
The good part about getting up early is that I had about an hour and a half to myself before Judah woke up. I had breakfast, made coffee, watched the news, did some dishes. It's definitely nice to have that alone time, which is rare in the mornings.
Judah and I enjoyed the morning together. He rifled through all of his toys and all his books were soon strewn across the floor. He absolutely loves it when I read to him. He loves his books so much. He cries when they are over and hates it when I close them. We read book after book after book and he wants to read some more. It's definitely a good thing, and it keeps me reading to him throughout the day.
For lunch I re-stir fried some leftover Chinese food I had made the other day. It didn't sit well with me at all. I followed it with a tall glass of apple juice to counteract the saltiness of lunch. It was way too much sugar for my stomach. I felt terrible afterwards. Thankfully Andrew was on his way home and Judah was taking a long nap. As soon as Andrew walked in the door I went upstairs and took a 3 hour nap. I had still been so tired from waking up really early this morning. Gotta love the husband for allowing me to do things like this.
Andrew was meeting a friend for dinner tonight so Judah and I were on our own. Apparently he had a huge lunch with Andrew when he woke up from his nap. He just kept eating and eating and eating. I tried to feed him dinner around 6:30 but he didn't really seem interested. He kind of just played with the peas and corn on his tray and snacked every once in a while. I didn't force him to eat anything else.
After dinner there were some kids from the neighborhood riding their bikes outside our house. Judah just loves other kids. He toddled over to the screen door and just squealed with delight seeing them ride their bikes around. He can't wait to be a big kid too.
Judah picking and choosing his peas and corn.
Baby Michels, 13 Weeks
This morning I woke up way too early, even before Andrew's alarm went off. I tried my best to fall back to sleep but could not for the life of me. I ended up being awake for the day around 6:30 am. Not good considering Andrew and I stayed up until midnight watching The Office.
The good part about getting up early is that I had about an hour and a half to myself before Judah woke up. I had breakfast, made coffee, watched the news, did some dishes. It's definitely nice to have that alone time, which is rare in the mornings.
Judah and I enjoyed the morning together. He rifled through all of his toys and all his books were soon strewn across the floor. He absolutely loves it when I read to him. He loves his books so much. He cries when they are over and hates it when I close them. We read book after book after book and he wants to read some more. It's definitely a good thing, and it keeps me reading to him throughout the day.
For lunch I re-stir fried some leftover Chinese food I had made the other day. It didn't sit well with me at all. I followed it with a tall glass of apple juice to counteract the saltiness of lunch. It was way too much sugar for my stomach. I felt terrible afterwards. Thankfully Andrew was on his way home and Judah was taking a long nap. As soon as Andrew walked in the door I went upstairs and took a 3 hour nap. I had still been so tired from waking up really early this morning. Gotta love the husband for allowing me to do things like this.
Andrew was meeting a friend for dinner tonight so Judah and I were on our own. Apparently he had a huge lunch with Andrew when he woke up from his nap. He just kept eating and eating and eating. I tried to feed him dinner around 6:30 but he didn't really seem interested. He kind of just played with the peas and corn on his tray and snacked every once in a while. I didn't force him to eat anything else.
After dinner there were some kids from the neighborhood riding their bikes outside our house. Judah just loves other kids. He toddled over to the screen door and just squealed with delight seeing them ride their bikes around. He can't wait to be a big kid too.
Judah picking and choosing his peas and corn.
Longing to play with the big kids outside.
I also decided to include a photo of my most recent ultrasound. I had my 13 week appointment back in August. We got to hear the baby's heartbeat for the first time, which is always so exciting. It's one of the best sounds in the world to hear that little heart thumping away so strongly. They had a little trouble finding the heartbeat so they brought in the ultrasound machine to help find the baby on the screen.
This was a special treat because normally we would have had to wait until 20 weeks to see the baby again. Baby was so active! It's amazing to see at that size just how much baby moves! It was just as much as I remember feeling Judah move in the 3rd trimester, no less. If I could feel all the movements now, it would honestly have been just as active.
Dr. Chien printed out a bunch of pictures for us, so here is one of them.
Only 4 more weeks until we get to find out the sex!
Baby Michels, 13 Weeks
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Beautiful Fall Day
I love days like today. Gorgeous sunshine shining down, but a crispness in the air telling me that fall is near.
Andrew stayed home from work today because he wasn't feeling well this morning. I love having him home, even though he was sick. It's just nice to have him around. I kind of like this guy.
I decided to make some cinnamon streusel topped blueberry muffins this morning. They were absolutely heavenly! I've never actually made muffins before. This was my first attempt and I'm must say that I'm pretty proud of how they turned out.
I finished my show Epitafios today. It's an Argentine crime drama that aired back in 2004 in Australia. HBO Latino decided to pick it up and put in On Demand. I've been watching the first season for the last week and I really got into it. It's not as graphic or gruesome as other HBO shows, and I appreciated that. It's probably just a step up from CSI with a little more blood and more language of course (it's still HBO, after all.) It was quite the thrilling show! Season 2 is about to start up in a few weeks and I'm hoping it's just as thrilling this time around.
I loved getting a brush up on my Spanish too. The show still has English subtitles, but hearing the Spanish is what counts the most. HBO actually tried to enhance the graphic language by translating certain Spanish phrases into more colorful English. Kind of comical.
Both my boys are asleep. Judah is sleeping soundly in his crib and Drew is snoring on the couch. It's not even 9 o'clock! I can't believe he's asleep! He was watching football, so maybe that explains it.
Catch Epitafios Season 2 on HBO Latino beginning September 21st at 9pm.
Cinnamon Streusel Blueberry Muffins
Sunday, July 26, 2009
It's the middle of the night...
It's when I usually have something to say...or nothing to say at all and am hoping that typing away will induce sleepiness.
It was so hot and muggy tonight. I was so exhausted when I fell asleep, I thought for sure I would be out all night. I woke up around 3 and haven't been able to fall asleep since. Of course, I realized that I had some things that I needed to do for the bridal shower today so I decided to work on those. Probably kept me more awake than anything.
Now I'm just hot and I still can't sleep.
Well in case you were unaware, I'm pregnant. 9 weeks to be precise. Baby is due on February 18th. I've had nausea off and on at times, but not much to complain about. More than anything I've just felt so tired....during the day of course, not at night when I actually have the chance to sleep.
This next month is so crazy and all the craziness is happening within one weekend, basically. My sister is coming into town, Jacob & Megan's rehearsal and bachelor/bachelorette party, Judah's first birthday party, the wedding itself, and then we leave for Hawaii! Should be fun fun fun!
It was so hot and muggy tonight. I was so exhausted when I fell asleep, I thought for sure I would be out all night. I woke up around 3 and haven't been able to fall asleep since. Of course, I realized that I had some things that I needed to do for the bridal shower today so I decided to work on those. Probably kept me more awake than anything.
Now I'm just hot and I still can't sleep.
Well in case you were unaware, I'm pregnant. 9 weeks to be precise. Baby is due on February 18th. I've had nausea off and on at times, but not much to complain about. More than anything I've just felt so tired....during the day of course, not at night when I actually have the chance to sleep.
This next month is so crazy and all the craziness is happening within one weekend, basically. My sister is coming into town, Jacob & Megan's rehearsal and bachelor/bachelorette party, Judah's first birthday party, the wedding itself, and then we leave for Hawaii! Should be fun fun fun!
Thursday, May 21, 2009
Sunshine
We are supposed to have consistent sunshine for the next week! I hope the weather forecast is true. I am in need of as much Vitamin D as possible. Judah and I are planning on getting outside today with my mom. We're going for a walk later this afternoon. I'm not sure where to go exactly. Maybe we'll start at McCollum Park and head into Mill Creek Town Center.
With summer drawing nearer, I have to think about protecting my skin from sun damage. Even though I've sustained a few major sunburns in the past few years, I never really cared to put sunscreen on because my skin tans so easily and I just love having that summer glow. Until last year....I really damaged my skin in Hawaii by not wearing sunscreen. I had the worst sunburn of my life and I can still see the effects of it on my skin. I'm a little paranoid now and I'm going to try to be really careful about protecting my skin this summer. I was surprised when my mom and I went for a walk the other day. The sun was peeking through the clouds but not very strongly and it was around 65 degrees outside. I got home and noticed that my shoulders were looking red. I had gotten a little sunburn!
From now on I'm putting sunscreen on when I go out in the sun. Not only do I have to think about me, but I have to think about Judah's delicate skin as well.
This weekend is Tami's bachelorette party. It should be a lot of fun. Andrew is throwing David's bachelor party the same night, so we'll both be out having a good time. Judah is going to stay overnight at my parents'. It's a little treat to not have to worry about him for an evening, though I'll be thinking about him the whole time I'm sure.
Yesterday, Andrew let me have the evening to myself. He took Judah over to his parents' house and had dinner with his dad and brothers. I realized that even when I do finally get my alone time, I spend half the time wondering about Judah, missing him and feeling guilty for not being with him. It's so silly, but I suppose it comes with the territory. I spent almost an hour working on a photo album of Judah and it made me miss him all the more. What can I say? I love my son!
With summer drawing nearer, I have to think about protecting my skin from sun damage. Even though I've sustained a few major sunburns in the past few years, I never really cared to put sunscreen on because my skin tans so easily and I just love having that summer glow. Until last year....I really damaged my skin in Hawaii by not wearing sunscreen. I had the worst sunburn of my life and I can still see the effects of it on my skin. I'm a little paranoid now and I'm going to try to be really careful about protecting my skin this summer. I was surprised when my mom and I went for a walk the other day. The sun was peeking through the clouds but not very strongly and it was around 65 degrees outside. I got home and noticed that my shoulders were looking red. I had gotten a little sunburn!
From now on I'm putting sunscreen on when I go out in the sun. Not only do I have to think about me, but I have to think about Judah's delicate skin as well.
This weekend is Tami's bachelorette party. It should be a lot of fun. Andrew is throwing David's bachelor party the same night, so we'll both be out having a good time. Judah is going to stay overnight at my parents'. It's a little treat to not have to worry about him for an evening, though I'll be thinking about him the whole time I'm sure.
Yesterday, Andrew let me have the evening to myself. He took Judah over to his parents' house and had dinner with his dad and brothers. I realized that even when I do finally get my alone time, I spend half the time wondering about Judah, missing him and feeling guilty for not being with him. It's so silly, but I suppose it comes with the territory. I spent almost an hour working on a photo album of Judah and it made me miss him all the more. What can I say? I love my son!
Saturday, May 9, 2009
Busy Bee
Today was a very busy day!
Andrew had to work today at a trade show in Seattle. I was home alone with the Bean like any other week day. I wanted to get out of the house and was contemplating going for a walk since the weather was nice. I ended up going grocery shopping for the week and bought a ton of food. It should be enough for dinner every night this week and lunches as well.
Then when I got home, Andrew told me we were going to have our good friends the Huss family over after he came home. I was happy about that because it had been forever since we had all gotten together. I had seen Amber and Mya on a couple different occasions, but nonetheless it had been forever.
I also wanted to make Andrew a really good dinner since I haven't made dinner consistently in a while what with my sister in town and my back being messed up. I decided to make this summer tomato spaghetti. Even though it's not summer yet, the dish still worked out. It's loaded with ripe tomatoes and other delicious veggies in the sauce. I decided to add his favorite Italian sausage to the dish as well. I sauteed some zucchini and squash on the side and voila! It was done just as he walked in the house.
I wanted to make a dessert for Amber and Matt as well, so I threw together these PB & J Chocolate Bars. It ended up being something that you can't exactly "throw" together and took a little more effort than I was expecting, but they turned out great!
In the middle of all this I juggled feeding and entertaining Judah.
Then Amber and Matt came over and Judah got to hang out with Mya. He scared her with his crazy energy and loud noises, but then she actually started yelling back at him. It was hilarious to listen to them go back and forth. I can't wait for her to start crawling so she can not only defend herself against him, but run away from him if she so desires. Judah wanted to eat her up!
Judah got tired while our guests were over so I attempted to put him down to sleep. That was a joke because I didn't give him his usual bath. I decided to just wait until they left to try to put him down. He gets so worked up when anyone but Andrew and I are around.
He finally went down around 9:30 - much later than his usual 8pm bedtime.
Now I'm exhausted and my back is sore from all the things I did today. Did I mention that I also did about 3 loads of laundry - wash, dried and folded. Plus I cleaned the house so that our guests didn't think we were raising our child like cavemen.
Now both of my boys are sleeping peacefully. One upstairs in his crib and the other is snoring softly on the couch. I should join in the trend.
Andrew had to work today at a trade show in Seattle. I was home alone with the Bean like any other week day. I wanted to get out of the house and was contemplating going for a walk since the weather was nice. I ended up going grocery shopping for the week and bought a ton of food. It should be enough for dinner every night this week and lunches as well.
Then when I got home, Andrew told me we were going to have our good friends the Huss family over after he came home. I was happy about that because it had been forever since we had all gotten together. I had seen Amber and Mya on a couple different occasions, but nonetheless it had been forever.
I also wanted to make Andrew a really good dinner since I haven't made dinner consistently in a while what with my sister in town and my back being messed up. I decided to make this summer tomato spaghetti. Even though it's not summer yet, the dish still worked out. It's loaded with ripe tomatoes and other delicious veggies in the sauce. I decided to add his favorite Italian sausage to the dish as well. I sauteed some zucchini and squash on the side and voila! It was done just as he walked in the house.
I wanted to make a dessert for Amber and Matt as well, so I threw together these PB & J Chocolate Bars. It ended up being something that you can't exactly "throw" together and took a little more effort than I was expecting, but they turned out great!
In the middle of all this I juggled feeding and entertaining Judah.
Then Amber and Matt came over and Judah got to hang out with Mya. He scared her with his crazy energy and loud noises, but then she actually started yelling back at him. It was hilarious to listen to them go back and forth. I can't wait for her to start crawling so she can not only defend herself against him, but run away from him if she so desires. Judah wanted to eat her up!
Judah got tired while our guests were over so I attempted to put him down to sleep. That was a joke because I didn't give him his usual bath. I decided to just wait until they left to try to put him down. He gets so worked up when anyone but Andrew and I are around.
He finally went down around 9:30 - much later than his usual 8pm bedtime.
Now I'm exhausted and my back is sore from all the things I did today. Did I mention that I also did about 3 loads of laundry - wash, dried and folded. Plus I cleaned the house so that our guests didn't think we were raising our child like cavemen.
Now both of my boys are sleeping peacefully. One upstairs in his crib and the other is snoring softly on the couch. I should join in the trend.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Wind Storm!
It's super windy tonight, as it has been for the last couple of days. The wind keeps scaring Judah in his sleep and waking him up. The poor guy!
My sister went home today. It was so great to have her home. I miss not having her around to just share life with. I'm not going to lie, I hope that one day she moves back up here. If not, well, I'll just be making many trips down to southern California.
I threw my back out somehow either last night or this morning. It hurts like hell....well, not so bad right now since I've had some ibuprofen and a few glasses of wine. I just don't know what I did to injure it and I'm hoping it feels better by the time Andrew has to go to work tomorrow.
I am very much looking forward to our trip to Hawaii. I am thinking about buying a bikini, actually. I keep getting catalogs in the mail and I just need to narrow my choices down and decide what to buy.
Also, if you are ever looking for a great Thai restaurant on the Ave, go to Thai Tom. It is soooo delicious. The absolute best Thai food I've ever eaten. It's a tiny little hole in the wall restaurant with barely any space, but the food is very delicious and I recommend that you try it.
My sister went home today. It was so great to have her home. I miss not having her around to just share life with. I'm not going to lie, I hope that one day she moves back up here. If not, well, I'll just be making many trips down to southern California.
I threw my back out somehow either last night or this morning. It hurts like hell....well, not so bad right now since I've had some ibuprofen and a few glasses of wine. I just don't know what I did to injure it and I'm hoping it feels better by the time Andrew has to go to work tomorrow.
I am very much looking forward to our trip to Hawaii. I am thinking about buying a bikini, actually. I keep getting catalogs in the mail and I just need to narrow my choices down and decide what to buy.
Also, if you are ever looking for a great Thai restaurant on the Ave, go to Thai Tom. It is soooo delicious. The absolute best Thai food I've ever eaten. It's a tiny little hole in the wall restaurant with barely any space, but the food is very delicious and I recommend that you try it.
Monday, April 27, 2009
Wedding Mania
Yesterday was my brother, Jacob and his fiance, Megan's engagement party. My mom and I put it together and it turned out to be a lot of fun! About 30 people showed up and it was a great time to celebrate the two of them, their engagement and upcoming marriage.
In 5 weeks, my brother-in-law, David will marry his sweetheart Tami. I'm so excited to have another sister officially. She has been a part of the family as long as I have, but now it will be official. Can't wait to see them get hitched next month!
My good friend Dena Wise is also getting married in June! I get to be in her wedding as one of her bridesmaids. She and I were good friends in jr. high and high school as we attended the same church.
And those are only a few of the couples who are getting married this year!
On another note, my sister is flying in to Seattle on Wednesday. I can't wait to see her. The last time I did was when I was stuck in a hospital bed before Judah was born. It will be great to go out and have some fun with her AND she gets to meet Judah for the first time!
Poor Judah caught my cold that I was fighting this last week. He's got a terrible runny nose and he refuses to let me use the nasal syringe on him. He absolutely hates it and if I manage to get it in his nose (which is next to impossible) he acts like I'm trying to hurt him and cries his eyes out. I decided it's easier to just wipe his nose. I'll have to buy some kleenex for his little nosey. I hope this virus passes quickly and that he is feeling better very soon.
In 5 weeks, my brother-in-law, David will marry his sweetheart Tami. I'm so excited to have another sister officially. She has been a part of the family as long as I have, but now it will be official. Can't wait to see them get hitched next month!
My good friend Dena Wise is also getting married in June! I get to be in her wedding as one of her bridesmaids. She and I were good friends in jr. high and high school as we attended the same church.
And those are only a few of the couples who are getting married this year!
On another note, my sister is flying in to Seattle on Wednesday. I can't wait to see her. The last time I did was when I was stuck in a hospital bed before Judah was born. It will be great to go out and have some fun with her AND she gets to meet Judah for the first time!
Poor Judah caught my cold that I was fighting this last week. He's got a terrible runny nose and he refuses to let me use the nasal syringe on him. He absolutely hates it and if I manage to get it in his nose (which is next to impossible) he acts like I'm trying to hurt him and cries his eyes out. I decided it's easier to just wipe his nose. I'll have to buy some kleenex for his little nosey. I hope this virus passes quickly and that he is feeling better very soon.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
I survived crying it out...
Last night was rough!
Judah went to bed without a fight at about 8:30, but them woke up at 11 pm crying. I couldn't believe he was hungry, but he was so upset and wouldn't stop crying so I fed him and put him back to bed. Then he woke again at 3 am crying....
Andrew went in to get him and tried to rock him back to sleep but Judah was not having it. I knew I couldn't go in there because I would lose it. This feels like it's been going on for an eternity and I am so done with waking up throughout the night. I felt like we should let him cry, and apparently Andrew did too because he came back in the bedroom, told me to stay in bed and said that we were going to let him cry.
And we did....he cried and cried and cried for about 45 minutes. It was really tough not to go in there, but I honestly feel like there is no other way to get him to fall back asleep on his own at this point. He's not hungry, it's a comfort thing. We've got to stop catering to his night wakings. He calmed down around 4:15 am and was quiet for about 15 minutes at which point Andrew and I decided it was safe to go ahead and fall asleep.
Then he started up again and cried for another half an hour until he finally was so tired that he conked out.
It was so hard not to go in there and comfort him and tell him it was going to be okay and pick him up and rock him. I just knew that it wouldn't do any good, that I would end up giving in and feeding him which he didn't need and I am trying so desperately to teach him that it's okay to sleep by himself for the night.
I thought for sure he would hate us both in the morning, but when he woke up at about 7:30 am (his usual wake up time) he was his happy little self. He was smiling and excited to see me. I was very relieved to see that I hadn't permanently damaged my child.
I don't know how many more times we are going to have to do this, but I'm hoping and praying not many. Obviously this is our last resort, as this has been going on almost every night since he was born. He is definitely old enough to be sleeping through the night without eating, but for some reason he hasn't caught on to that notion yet.
I just want to do the right thing for him and teach him that he can fall back to sleep on his own.
It's weird because he falls asleep on his own initially all the time for naps and at bedtime, but when it comes to the middle of the night, he gets so incredibly upset and can't for the life of him figure out how to go back to sleep without eating first.
FRUSTRATING!!!
I just hope we are doing the right thing and I wish I had all the answers.
Judah went to bed without a fight at about 8:30, but them woke up at 11 pm crying. I couldn't believe he was hungry, but he was so upset and wouldn't stop crying so I fed him and put him back to bed. Then he woke again at 3 am crying....
Andrew went in to get him and tried to rock him back to sleep but Judah was not having it. I knew I couldn't go in there because I would lose it. This feels like it's been going on for an eternity and I am so done with waking up throughout the night. I felt like we should let him cry, and apparently Andrew did too because he came back in the bedroom, told me to stay in bed and said that we were going to let him cry.
And we did....he cried and cried and cried for about 45 minutes. It was really tough not to go in there, but I honestly feel like there is no other way to get him to fall back asleep on his own at this point. He's not hungry, it's a comfort thing. We've got to stop catering to his night wakings. He calmed down around 4:15 am and was quiet for about 15 minutes at which point Andrew and I decided it was safe to go ahead and fall asleep.
Then he started up again and cried for another half an hour until he finally was so tired that he conked out.
It was so hard not to go in there and comfort him and tell him it was going to be okay and pick him up and rock him. I just knew that it wouldn't do any good, that I would end up giving in and feeding him which he didn't need and I am trying so desperately to teach him that it's okay to sleep by himself for the night.
I thought for sure he would hate us both in the morning, but when he woke up at about 7:30 am (his usual wake up time) he was his happy little self. He was smiling and excited to see me. I was very relieved to see that I hadn't permanently damaged my child.
I don't know how many more times we are going to have to do this, but I'm hoping and praying not many. Obviously this is our last resort, as this has been going on almost every night since he was born. He is definitely old enough to be sleeping through the night without eating, but for some reason he hasn't caught on to that notion yet.
I just want to do the right thing for him and teach him that he can fall back to sleep on his own.
It's weird because he falls asleep on his own initially all the time for naps and at bedtime, but when it comes to the middle of the night, he gets so incredibly upset and can't for the life of him figure out how to go back to sleep without eating first.
FRUSTRATING!!!
I just hope we are doing the right thing and I wish I had all the answers.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
funk
I'm in a funk today and I don't know why....
I'm frustrated and irritated at everything right now. It's stemming mostly from feeling like I suck as a parent. I don't know why it seems like everyone else's baby is sleeping except for mine. He just refuses to sleep through the night. The longest he will sleep is 4-5 hours at a time. Sometimes he wants to eat at midnight and it's ridiculous! I don't understand! Is he not getting enough to eat during the day and he therefore wants to eat at night?
I really don't think it has anything to do with teething or moving around either. When he wakes up, he wants to eat and gets sooo pissed if he doesn't get fed. There is no crying it out with him. It doesn't work. I am left feeling so frustrated about this situation. I wish I had all the answers. I feel like I'm just screwing up royally with him in this aspect. If he needs to eat, then fine, but why at 12 am? It's not like he can't fall asleep on his own either...he does it all the time for his naps and at bedtime. Both of which have improved drastically from a month ago....
Sometimes I want to rip my hair out because I feel like it's never going to improve and that he's always going to wake up and want to eat in the middle of the night. I know that's not true, but that's how it feels at the moment.
So I guess I do know why I'm upset....and it's spilling over into everything else.
Thankfully I have a sweet husband who does his best to help me get out of my funk....
I'm frustrated and irritated at everything right now. It's stemming mostly from feeling like I suck as a parent. I don't know why it seems like everyone else's baby is sleeping except for mine. He just refuses to sleep through the night. The longest he will sleep is 4-5 hours at a time. Sometimes he wants to eat at midnight and it's ridiculous! I don't understand! Is he not getting enough to eat during the day and he therefore wants to eat at night?
I really don't think it has anything to do with teething or moving around either. When he wakes up, he wants to eat and gets sooo pissed if he doesn't get fed. There is no crying it out with him. It doesn't work. I am left feeling so frustrated about this situation. I wish I had all the answers. I feel like I'm just screwing up royally with him in this aspect. If he needs to eat, then fine, but why at 12 am? It's not like he can't fall asleep on his own either...he does it all the time for his naps and at bedtime. Both of which have improved drastically from a month ago....
Sometimes I want to rip my hair out because I feel like it's never going to improve and that he's always going to wake up and want to eat in the middle of the night. I know that's not true, but that's how it feels at the moment.
So I guess I do know why I'm upset....and it's spilling over into everything else.
Thankfully I have a sweet husband who does his best to help me get out of my funk....
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Beautiful Day!
I am headed over to my mom's house to spend the day outside in her garden. I don't think it's going to be quite as warm as it was yesterday, but none the less, the sun is shining and that is all that matters to me.
Judah and I went to Mill Creek Town Center yesterday to walk around and enjoy the weather. He loved being outside too. I let him have bare feet since it really seemed too warm for him to be wearing shoes and socks. It was too cute!
Rachel's wedding on Friday was amazing. I didn't know I would be so emotional over her wedding day! She was so stunningly gorgeous - the most beautiful bride I've ever seen. Just breath taking! I felt so honored to be a part of her day and to stand by her side while she said her vows.
I have to say that I gave a pretty kick ass speech too. I made everyone cry, including many different men who told me so afterward. I blew the best men out of the water! They went up to Adam afterward and apologized for not giving a better speech. Pretty good for someone who gets realllly nervous talking in front of crowds!
I love my best friend and I am so happy for her. I can't wait to see her when she gets back from Cabo!
Well, my bean is awake from his nap so we are headed off to Grandma's house!
Judah and I went to Mill Creek Town Center yesterday to walk around and enjoy the weather. He loved being outside too. I let him have bare feet since it really seemed too warm for him to be wearing shoes and socks. It was too cute!
Rachel's wedding on Friday was amazing. I didn't know I would be so emotional over her wedding day! She was so stunningly gorgeous - the most beautiful bride I've ever seen. Just breath taking! I felt so honored to be a part of her day and to stand by her side while she said her vows.
I have to say that I gave a pretty kick ass speech too. I made everyone cry, including many different men who told me so afterward. I blew the best men out of the water! They went up to Adam afterward and apologized for not giving a better speech. Pretty good for someone who gets realllly nervous talking in front of crowds!
I love my best friend and I am so happy for her. I can't wait to see her when she gets back from Cabo!
Well, my bean is awake from his nap so we are headed off to Grandma's house!
Thursday, April 2, 2009
My Best Friend's Wedding
My best friend, Rachel Godwin, is getting married tomorrow! I get to be her maid (or rather matron) of honor too. It is so surreal to think that her and Adam will be husband and wife by this time tomorrow. They will be whisked away to their honeymoon in Cabo San Lucas.
Wow! My best friend! It's crazy! She is the first of any of my close friends to get married and this is the first wedding I get to be in. I just can't believe it's already time! I hope and pray for the best for their marriage. Tomorrow is going to be a truly unforgettable day.
On a different note, my husband is the best! He's been on extra dad duty lately since I've had to do a lot of running around with Rachel for the wedding and for different parties and get togethers. Tonight he made me cookies! They are amazing too. I told him they taste better than any old batch of cookies I've ever made! He disagreed of course. He gets to be Mr. Mom tomorrow while I'm with Rachel all day.
With that said, I think that I fall more and more in love with my little boy every single day. He is such a priceless treasure to me. He is the most precious thing in my life and I would do absolutely anything for him. He is so sweet and I just love the personality that he is developing. He knows how to be silly and laugh with me and knows how to act in response to be me being goofy with him. He makes me laugh so much! Just like his daddy. I love watching his reaction to different things in his surroundings. It is so amazing to see the world through his innocent eyes.
I just want to be the best mom that I can possibly be for him.
Well I have a big day tomorrow, so I should get to sleeping! Night!
Wow! My best friend! It's crazy! She is the first of any of my close friends to get married and this is the first wedding I get to be in. I just can't believe it's already time! I hope and pray for the best for their marriage. Tomorrow is going to be a truly unforgettable day.
On a different note, my husband is the best! He's been on extra dad duty lately since I've had to do a lot of running around with Rachel for the wedding and for different parties and get togethers. Tonight he made me cookies! They are amazing too. I told him they taste better than any old batch of cookies I've ever made! He disagreed of course. He gets to be Mr. Mom tomorrow while I'm with Rachel all day.
With that said, I think that I fall more and more in love with my little boy every single day. He is such a priceless treasure to me. He is the most precious thing in my life and I would do absolutely anything for him. He is so sweet and I just love the personality that he is developing. He knows how to be silly and laugh with me and knows how to act in response to be me being goofy with him. He makes me laugh so much! Just like his daddy. I love watching his reaction to different things in his surroundings. It is so amazing to see the world through his innocent eyes.
I just want to be the best mom that I can possibly be for him.
Well I have a big day tomorrow, so I should get to sleeping! Night!
Sunday, January 18, 2009
Bed Time
We have been having a very rough time with Judah's sleep pattern the last few weeks. I'm assuming it has been due to his illness. Every nap time has been a tough battle and bedtime has been even worse. I would dread having to put him to bed because it is such a challenge.
Tonight was a complete surprise. We ended up getting Judah to bed really late because we had been out with our family. We started his bedtime routine around 9. I fed him and he wanted to eat for almost an hour. Then at 10pm he was rubbing his eyes and acting very tired so I decided to head upstairs and start the battle. I laid him in his crib and he was wide awake, smiling and making noise. I started to read him his bedtime story and he got very quiet and just stared at me. I finished the story and wrapped him up in his favorite blanket.
At this point he usually becomes very fussy because he knows that it is time to sleep. He also attempts to break out of his swaddle to chew on his fists. Then he'll usually cry a lot.
What did he do tonight? As soon as I wrapped him up tight, his eyelids began to droop. I couldn't believe it was going to be this easy. Sure enough he broke out of his swaddle, so I wrapped him up again and said "shhh shhh shhh." His eyes slowly began to close again and he was out.
WAY TOO EASY! Wow! Probably the easiest bedtime in Judah history. Let's hope and pray for more nights like tonight!
On another note - who the hell is Sasha Fierce? Okay, I know who she is. She is Beyonce Knowles' alter ego. Can I just say that I hate that song "Single Ladies"? She girates all over the screen acting like a moron in a leotard. She just looks awful. I hope I don't have to see that video ever again.
Tonight was a complete surprise. We ended up getting Judah to bed really late because we had been out with our family. We started his bedtime routine around 9. I fed him and he wanted to eat for almost an hour. Then at 10pm he was rubbing his eyes and acting very tired so I decided to head upstairs and start the battle. I laid him in his crib and he was wide awake, smiling and making noise. I started to read him his bedtime story and he got very quiet and just stared at me. I finished the story and wrapped him up in his favorite blanket.
At this point he usually becomes very fussy because he knows that it is time to sleep. He also attempts to break out of his swaddle to chew on his fists. Then he'll usually cry a lot.
What did he do tonight? As soon as I wrapped him up tight, his eyelids began to droop. I couldn't believe it was going to be this easy. Sure enough he broke out of his swaddle, so I wrapped him up again and said "shhh shhh shhh." His eyes slowly began to close again and he was out.
WAY TOO EASY! Wow! Probably the easiest bedtime in Judah history. Let's hope and pray for more nights like tonight!
On another note - who the hell is Sasha Fierce? Okay, I know who she is. She is Beyonce Knowles' alter ego. Can I just say that I hate that song "Single Ladies"? She girates all over the screen acting like a moron in a leotard. She just looks awful. I hope I don't have to see that video ever again.
Monday, January 12, 2009
Twenty.Four
Jack is soooo back! Andrew and I used to love, love, love 24. We were not anticipating that this new season would be good at all. We were pretty sure Jack would be as lame as the limp-wristed Jesus. (Not that I am paralleling Jesus as Jack Bauer - that would be absurd.) It turns out that Jack Bauer is so back without apologies! We are loving the new season so far. Even though I missed a good portion of the show tonight because I was trying to get my son to sleep, I was loving what I saw. Yes! Finally a show worth watching again!
Judah seemed to have taken a turn for the worse this morning. I was so worried about him and his coughing. His whole face was like a giant puddle. His eyes were watering, his nose was dripping snot like a faucet and he was drooling and hacking like crazy. His fever was back up too. I was so thankful Andrew stayed home from work today. We decided to have him seen at the doctor again this morning. It probably wasn't necessary at all, but it was worth the peace of mind. I was getting worried about his lungs and thought they may have been filling with fluid. The doctor assured us that his lungs sounded fine and that we basically just needed to keep doing what we were doing. He told us signs and symptoms that we need to be wary of and sent us on our way. Ever since then it seems like Judah is feeling a whole lot better. He is draining a lot less snot from his little nose and his cough doesn't sound so severe. Of course his entire family has been praying for him as well. Let's just say that ever since he was in the womb, it has been Judah's M.O. to cause drama with his health issues. I'm worried we might end up with a lifetime of huge doctor's bills because of this kid. He's more than worth it.
Andrew and I got a couple of gift cards to Applebee's from my Grandma for Christmas so we decided to use them tonight. We needed a break from being cooped up in the house with the sickness, so his mom came over and took care of our bean for a couple hours while we enjoyed some fine, classy, south Everett dining. It was super romantic.
Sunday, January 11, 2009
Brave Little Boy
It turns out that Judah's nasty cold wasn't only a cold - it was a full blown ear infection in both ears. Poor little guy got started on his first round of antibiotics on Thursday. He had a really rough couple of days. His nose has been all kinds of congested and he has been hacking and coughing. I've felt so worried about him. He is too little to be sick like this. The meds seemed to kick in late last night and he seems to be doing a lot better. His congestion is still present, but his spirits seem to be better. What a brave little boy!
Now I am starting to feel sick. I feel a sore throat coming on. Ugh! Please no!
Tomorrow is the start of a new week and I am trying to decide what exactly to do with myself. It will be kind of hard to get out and about with a sick baby. I need to see my best friend. I have something to give her and we need to talk wedding plans. I also have some errands to run and some shopping to do. There's a wedding coming up next Saturday. Black and white formal attire requested - so I'll have to make sure my outfit is compiled.
Off to bed! Here's to hoping this week is a good one!
Now I am starting to feel sick. I feel a sore throat coming on. Ugh! Please no!
Tomorrow is the start of a new week and I am trying to decide what exactly to do with myself. It will be kind of hard to get out and about with a sick baby. I need to see my best friend. I have something to give her and we need to talk wedding plans. I also have some errands to run and some shopping to do. There's a wedding coming up next Saturday. Black and white formal attire requested - so I'll have to make sure my outfit is compiled.
Off to bed! Here's to hoping this week is a good one!
Thursday, January 8, 2009
Well, Judah officially has his first cold. He has been congested for the past few weeks over Christmas, but it seemed to be clearing up. Now he has a full blown nasty cough. It's bad enough when I feel sick, but to know that my poor little baby feels terrible makes me feel helpless. There isn't much I can do for him. He's too little to take any kind of medicine. I'm just trying to make him as comfortable as possible.
Tuesday he had his 4 month check up. He did great! He passed with flying colors. He weighs 16 lbs, 9 oz. What a big boy! He's growing oh so fast! He didn't even notice the first shot, then screamed for about 5 seconds after the second shot. So brave! His doctor said not to start solids until he is 5 months old. This means we hold off on the rice cereal for a couple more weeks. I was getting so excited to get him started on it, but we can wait a little longer.
The only problem Judah has is that he probably isn't getting quite enough tummy time. His head is a little bit flat in one spot so I've been doing my best to keep him off his back and on his tummy or sitting up. No flat heads here!
Andrew and I discovered today that if we had waited until now, we could have purchased a lot more house for our money. It's very frustrating to know that our house is only sinking in value. By the time we are ready to move, it may be pretty worthless and we won't get anywhere near what we paid for it. Such is life!
Another frustration - our homeowners association! We pay over $200 a month to these idiots and I don't know where the money goes! I feel they just throw it away! While we had the snow here, they didn't even have the decency to hire someone to shovel the sidewalks or clear a path to the street. What are we paying these people for? Andrew and I went through the list of things our money goes toward and it all sounds bogus! I can't wait until we are no longer tied to this stupid association. It's a scam to make money anyway.
Sunday, January 4, 2009
More Snow!
I'm loving all the snow that is falling. If it were up to me we would get another 12 inches tonight and it would stick around for weeks. I realize that since I don't actually have to be anywhere in the morning, this changes my perspective a bit. I don't, however, believe that 2 inches of snow will slow down anyone's morning commute after all the snow we've had in the last 2 weeks. So stop getting mad, people!
We took down Christmas today. We were putting it off a bit because the Boy Scouts don't come to collect our tree until January 10th. What are we supposed to do with our tree until then? Right now it's just sitting on the small patch of grass outside our townhouse. Hopefully the homeowners association doesn't complain.
Our house looks so bare now that all the decorations are gone. It makes me feel like going on an interior decorating spree. Not gonna happen though.
I just started reading an article about a teenage girl in Port Angeles who killed her newborn son and threw him in the trash. This is a horrible story, regardless, but now that I'm a mom it hits home even more. My heart goes out to the girl who was obviously horribly overwhelmed and didn't know what to do. Of course my heart breaks even more for the baby boy who didn't even get a chance at life. I couldn't continue reading the article, I was going to end up in tears.
Kind of makes you think about abortion....how it's okay to kill your baby when it's growing inside your body, but as soon as he is delivered he suddenly has rights. How is this any different?
We took down Christmas today. We were putting it off a bit because the Boy Scouts don't come to collect our tree until January 10th. What are we supposed to do with our tree until then? Right now it's just sitting on the small patch of grass outside our townhouse. Hopefully the homeowners association doesn't complain.
Our house looks so bare now that all the decorations are gone. It makes me feel like going on an interior decorating spree. Not gonna happen though.
I just started reading an article about a teenage girl in Port Angeles who killed her newborn son and threw him in the trash. This is a horrible story, regardless, but now that I'm a mom it hits home even more. My heart goes out to the girl who was obviously horribly overwhelmed and didn't know what to do. Of course my heart breaks even more for the baby boy who didn't even get a chance at life. I couldn't continue reading the article, I was going to end up in tears.
Kind of makes you think about abortion....how it's okay to kill your baby when it's growing inside your body, but as soon as he is delivered he suddenly has rights. How is this any different?
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