Belly Comparison

Getting ready to go out tonight with Kara being in town, we found it fitting to take a picture and compare who's belly was bigger. You might find this other belly familiar from a previous post which can be found here.

So, who's is bigger?

We'll let you be the judge!

Happy Thanksgiving

Today, I have really taken the time to reflect on all that I have to be thankful for and I realize how lucky and fortunate I am for everything that I have. I have a wonderful family - husband, two babies, a sweet baby girl on the way, my family, my wonderful friends, my health, a great pregnancy, a job, a beautiful home, food to put on the table, time spent with loved ones, and the list could go on forever.

It was a wonderful day. We woke up to our babies this morning and were able to spend some cuddle time just the four of us. Then it was off to Grandma and Papa's for some yummy "lunch". My MIL definitely is a good cook and she had a nice spread out for us. It was nice to eat, enjoy time with the family, watch the kids play around and just be happy. Their smiles never leave their faces - it warms my heart. Unfortunately, our time with them ended mid-afternoon. They will be missed greatly, but we are thankful for every minute spent with them - every kiss, every hug, the smiles, the laughing, the stories, the pictures, absolutely everything.

After the kids were with their mom, we headed up to my families. What an amazing time we had. I love my family. Everyone is unique in their own way and each one of us has our own bit of 'crazy', but that is what makes us all so great. I love watching Eli interact with them. In fact, I am thankful that he likes my family and gets along with them. It is so cute to watch him and my sister together. My sister looks up to him and loves having an older brother...even if all he does is flip her shit. We had our second meal of goods for the day and boy was it good. I know one thing, my family is blessed with a bunch of great cooks!

The day was wonderful. Yummy food, great company, the best family, two sweet babies and an angel that made sure I knew she was there all day. So much to be thankful for!

I hope everyone had a fabulous Thanksgiving!!!!

My Sleeping Babies

They were put in bed at 7:45 and snuggled by both their dad and I. Within minutes, they drifted off to sleep. I couldn't help but go grab my camera so that I could capture just what it is that I stare at, the faces that I rub and kiss, and snuggle.

Sweet baby girl snuggled up with her dog that grandma got her. She has a drawer full of pajamas and yet must wear her thermals to bed. At least we know she is warm! Ugh, kissing that cheek before bed is the greatest!
Here is the little man snuggled up with his Scoobie. What you can't see are the bear and spider that also sleep right next to him. So peaceful...
And after kissing them good night before crawling into bed last night, I slept so great. I did have to get up once to pee and I was so bummed. I thought for sure that it was like 3am and I would be having to get up soon. However, I looked at the clock and it was 11:52pm! I was stoked. I was sleeping so good and hard and that is exactly how the rest of my night was last night. Best night sleep in a while. I wish I could have more of them!

Relief - RIP Brianna Denison

A suspect was finally arrested last night in the Brianna Denison case (http://rgj.com/article/20081126/NEWS01/811260455). Definitely about time. I am so thankful to know that this man is finally off the streets and I can only imagine how thankful Brianna's family is to know that justice is going to be served...and just in time for Thanksgiving.

A few of us watched the press release at 10:30am that they had. This man that is being charged with rapes and murder is a father to a 4yo. This makes me sick...beyond sick. He was arrested last night when he was picking up his child from daycare. Turns out that his girlfriend found some panties in his vehicle in September and turned around and talked to a friend about it. And the friend is who called and turned him in on November 1. From there on, the investigation was on and cracking. The girlfriend gave permission to get a DNA sample from child and after it was a match they were able to get a warrant for the DNA of James Biela.

What a relief this must be for the family, for her friends...a relief for our entire community. While I am happy to know that he is off the streets, it makes me sick when I think of his child and all that he has put so many people through. It's just disgusting.

How could you not LOVE coming home to this??!?!!

Seth got his face painted at daycare. It was still wet when I picked him up. He actually did such a super job not touching it or anything.
Look at these bright eyes!

Truly a sweet face.

The angel doing her homework. She is such a smart little girl.

She is absolutely beautiful. I love this smile, I love her pretty eyes...I just love her.

And that is why I absolutely LOVE Tuesday and Wednesday nights.

Bursting!

I just got a call from Kara. She didn't have to work today and is now going to be here 5 hours earlier than originally planned. That means that right after my doctor appointment I get to see her....YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Finally HERE

I have been waiting for today for well over a month. And I am beyond excited that it is finally here. I am anxious and know that tonight just can't come fast enough. My bestest friend in the whole world, Kara, is flying into town for the weekend. YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I can't wait to drive with Tara to the airport and see her shining face when we pull up. I can't wait to give her the biggest hug ever and then spend the rest of the night having girls night. I just can't wait. And I don't feel bad that I will be spending a few hours away from my family because I am going to get the little ones early today to make up for it. Not to mention, they will be hanging out with our friends tonight, so that makes me feel better.

Ugh, it seems like forever since I have seen Kara. I hate that she lives in Vegas and I hate that I am unable to see her all the time like it used to be. We will make the most of it. This weekend will be super jam packed to get as much Kara time in as possible and I am so excited for it. I am sure that I will have tons of pictures to post to show our good times. I can't wait for her to see my baby bump in real life. She hasn't seen me since I have started showing. I hope that she is able to feel my sweet Skylar kicking around. EEEEEEKKKKKKKKKKKK!!!!!! :)

I Love...

When I am going to bed and my last stop is in each of the kids room to give them a few more kisses. I love the way they smell so clean from their baths and are so very soft.

Sleep tight...

Impressed!

Tonight I made dinner. I didn't say what I was making other than asparagus. Instead, I just waited until it was done, dished it up on the plates and called the family to the table. Swae and Seth sat down and got right to work eating. First of all, they L-O-V-E asparagus or "greens" as they call them. Seth had two helpings.

I was also shocked to see them both shoveling in bites of the stir fry chow mein. They both ate every single bite that was served to them. There was no complaining, there was no anything other than hearing "yum" and "mmmmmmm..." coming out of their little mouths. So awesome! I am not kidding, they used to be so picky a year and a half ago. Their variety of things they eat keeps expanding and they are willing to try new things. I love it. I hope that Skylar is the same way.

It is so awesome making one meal for everyone to eat - the kids and Eli and I rather than making him and I something and then the kids something separate. It is just more simple plus I feel like it is more healthy with them eating a variety of meats and vegetables. Tonight they ate carrots, red bell pepper, asparagus, broccoli, chicken, and the list goes on. I think that is just awesome and I am so impressed.

Brownies

Swae, Seth and I made brownies on Saturday night. I think the part they liked the best was the spoonful of batter they got when they were all mixed up. Seth thought he could pull a fast one on me and tried digging in for spoon #2 after I poured them in the pan. He loved it! They turned out great. They were soft and everything. Not to bad actually.

I didn't want them around the house anymore. After having them there since Saturday and eating three small ones, I decided to bag them up and brought them to work. They have been a HUGE hit. Everyone is sampling them and I actually just heard one lady say she has only had a few. So they must be pretty good if she keeps coming back for me!

I have something else to bake with them too. I always buy a little something so that we have something to do and pull out and surprise them. I am telling you, Tuesday afternoon through Thursday morning are becoming my favorite. I love every single minute that we have with them. I cherish it. I can't get enough of it. I am speaking for myself here but know that Eli feels the exact same way. I find myself a little lost Thursday nights so I am glad that is designated for girls night. Man I love the kiddos and am counting down the end of my work day til I get to see their bright shining faces!

UGLY!

Has anyone other than Angie seen the new driver's licenses?? They are disgusting looking. For some reason the DMV thinks these new flimsy, cheap looking pieces of garbage are going to keep people from making fake IDs or something. I am so sad. I love the other ones so much better. These ones are just...not very good looking. Oh well, at least I have my new name and everything is official. It just is crazy that they changed them and just within the last month.

Oh and when you go to the DMV to get it, they take your picture and have you pay and sign and do everything. Then they hand you a sheet of paper (mine stated the new name) and then your old ID back with a hole in it to use and your identification until your new one comes in the mail. They say they are able to be more efficient that way. I don't understand how that is more efficient when it takes all of two minutes for the IDs to pop out of the thing like before. So you then have to wait a week to get the new one in the mail. It is so insane.

It seems like more of a hassle to me, but what do I know since I don't work for the DMV. I am just in shock at how cheap they look!

Check it Out!

Come see HERE!!!!

Cute Moment

Hands down, the best part of today happened rather early this morning. It was right after we had eaten breakfast and Swae and Seth were just chilling reading some books. I started to feel Skylar start to stir, so I told Swae to come put her hand on my tummy. Within a minute, Skylar full on kicked her sisters hand! I wish I was able to capture the look on Swae's face when it happened. Her eyes got huge and she said, "WOW, she just kicked my hand!" She was so exited. It was definitely one of the cutest moments. I told Swae there will be more and the bigger Skylar gets, the more she will be able to feel her.

Now Swae is sure to keep her hand close to my belly. I think it made her feel closer. She has been loving on my belly and talking to Skylar like crazy. It really is the sweetest thing.

Simple Saturday

Swae had her first cheerleading practice today. She LOVED it. She talked about it for ever after we left there. You could tell they wore the girls out. But it was worth it. They put on a little show for the parents the last half hour and Swae was lucky enough to have not just her daddy and I there, but her mom and her boyfriend showed up as well. The girl definitely gets shy. It is cute. You could tell she was nervous, but could tell that she really enjoyed herself. It was wonderful seeing her do something like that and then hearing how much she loved it after.

She has been expressing a lot how much she is enjoying her time with her dad and I. It is cute. It really makes us feel good. Sethie too, but Swae is much more vocal. I have to say that Eli and I are stoked with having more quality time with them. We have more of a routine and it has made things so much healthier for the kids and us.

While Swae was at cheer today, Eli and I got her a little something that we surprised her with when she got home...she needed it. It was some cutie pajamas. She had been commenting on a cute pair of my pajama bottoms and while out today, I saw some like mine and the matching top says "Cheerleading Super Star". So freaking cute. She was thrilled. So all night tonight, her and I wore our matching bottoms. AND!!!! Her and Seth gave me the most beautiful card. I guess they had been telling Eli they wanted to get me something and that is what I got. I am going to have to post it so you all can see it for yourself. The envelope that Swae wrote on was enough to bring tears to my eyes. I am so in love with her.

The day was great. We got a lot accomplished and our sweet girl had fun. She has another clinic and then gets to perform during a high school basketball half time - which she is totally looking forward to. Tomorrow is another big day...family pictures! I can't wait!

In LOVE!

I can't get enough of this bedding. I just love it. I forgot I had taken pictures of it out on display in the store. I love the animals and can't stop looking at it. It is going to look so beautiful in her room. I mean, look how freaking cute the elephant and giraffe are! Just loving it!!!

I think that this will definitely go good with the crib that I pictured yesterday.

There are these really cute stuffed animals of the giraffe and elephant that match the bedding and I just found out that they are discontinuing them. I am heart broken. The Reno store doesn't have any more in stock. Tara had Kara look for them at one of the Vegas stores and the one Kara went to didn't have them either. So I just put a call in to the Reno store begging the to find them at another store and have them shipped here for me to purchase. I am seriously going to be so disappointed if we are unable to get them.

**UPDATE**

The Reno store called back. Even though they said they were out of stock and even though they are discontinued, there are some there waiting for pick up. Such relief!!!!!!!!!!!

Thinking...

Today after talking to my mother-in-law and looking around, I think that I might go with the following crib. At first I was going to do a white one and then thinking about it for future purposes, I thought better of it. Going through the many, many different options, I fell in love with this one. I love the color. I saw it with different bedding and I loved that. I got this image of how it will look in Skylar's room and I was so happy. I am almost certain that we aren't going to go with the changing table that is pictured. There is another one that I saw that I like a lot more and would get a lot more use.
I am feeling rather productive. I am excited. And Eli approved, which is even better!

Belly Shots - 23 weeks 5 days

My oh my is my daughter growing...along with my belly. It is so fun. It is nice finally feeling pregnant rather than just fat! I actually had a complete stranger mention how cute my pregnant belly was. It was awesome. People are touching me a lot more too. I don't mind it actually. The only thing that I have noticed that gets to me is when people linger for a long time. Then it gets to be a bit too much and I am ready to have my space back. But I know others are excited and want to feel and love on Sweet Skylar as well. I am trying to be laid back about everything and think that I am doing a good job. This picture definitely shows that the belly has GROWN!

There is a vein that runs down my side that creeps me out. I don't like it. I wish I had a tan coming into this! I guess it could be worse!

I didn't have time to take a full body shot of myself at home because I didn't want to be late. So I waited until I got to work and they just didn't turn out that well. You guys wanted to see ones with my face, so I am posting them anyway. Maybe later I can have Tara or Eli snap a better shot and maybe one of me facing the camera. We'll see. Yep, she is in there! :) I love it. She is still moving all around, being able to be felt by others and there are times when we are sitting on the couch that we are able to watch her move. It makes me smile just thinking about it and warms my heart. I have been tired lately, but I figure that is normal. I just need to get some rest and all will be fine. This weekend rest will hopefully happen in between the many fun things we have planned with the kiddos.

I go to the doctor next Wednesday. Thursday will be Thanksgiving, so I don't know if I will be able to post the belly shot. I was thinking of maybe doing it a day early instead?? I don't know, I will figure it out. Either that or a day late and then can fill in with anything new that the doctor had to say. Regardless, I will get one up next week for sure.

Getting It Down

Damn we are on top of things this week. Night #2 and the kids were asleep before 8pm! I think we totally have the hang of this and our shit together. We are very organized. And the kids seem to really enjoy the little routine that we have going.

Not only that, today was another successful morning of getting the three of us up and out of the house and me to work on time. It seriously is a great feeling considering this is new to me. I am finding my way and figuring out the little tricks that work best for us. It seems to all be working because I have two very pleasant kids in the morning and you can't beat smiles and laughing. Your day just can't start bad like that.

I am glad they are asleep early tonight again. They get up early and have long days. Their sleep is very needed. Tonight the four of us just cuddled and cuddled. We had a nice family dinner (tacos...that the kids devoured!) and just snuggled it up as much as possible. I can't begin to explain the joy it is to have them over night during the week and having more quality time with them rather than having it broken up with driving across town. Things are just so much more simple and flow so much smoother. It's how it should be and we are ever so grateful.

And now, I am going to follow the little ones. It is off to get ready for bed and then flop myself in bed. I am tired and have been for the last week. It's starting to really annoy me. Oh and the belly...totally bigger. You can definitely tell that I am pregnant. There is no more hiding it (not that I was). I'm excited to show the picture tomorrow. Good night all.

For All the Mommies

I got these in an email and thought I would share them with all the mommies that I am sure will relate to ALL of them. While I am still in the process of having my first child, I have found that becoming a step-mom has already changed me in more ways than I could have ever imagined and I am able to relate to most of these as well.

1. You finally stop to smell the roses, because your baby is in your arms.
2. Where you once believed you were fearless, you now find yourself afraid.
3. The sacrifices you thought you made to have a child no longer seem like sacrifices.
4. You respect your body ... finally.
5. You respect your parents and love them in a new way.
6. You find that your baby's pain feels much worse than your own.
7. You believe once again in the things you believed in as a child.
8. You lose touch with the people in your life whom you should have banished years ago.
9. Your heart breaks much more easily.
10. You think of someone else 234,836,178,976 times a day.
11. Every day is a surprise.
12. Bodily functions are no longer repulsive. In fact, they please you. (Hooray for poop!)
13. You look at your baby in the mirror instead of yourself.
14. You become a morning person.
15. Your love becomes limitless, a superhuman power.

#8 has definitely happened and it has been the best thing that I ever could have done. I actually sit back and wonder why I didn't do it sooner and prolonged the process. It is so nice to only be surrounded by true, loving, caring, positive, good people. I am so grateful for all that I do surround myself with.

#10 has been happening since May of last year.

And as for #14, I am not sure this will ever be the case. I struggle every single morning getting out of bed. It doesn't matter what time I go to sleep, I don't like getting up. Maybe this will change. I am hoping it does.

Total Success

Tonight turned out to be a great night. We of course had the kiddos, so that was great. But after living in our house for seven months, we finally had Eli's parents and grandma over for dinner. I have never been one to entertain or anything, so I was a bit nervous. Last night I was in the kitchen from the time I got home from work until 8pm! But I had my dinner for tonight prepared leaving me only minimal things to do.

After work today it was off to get the kids since Eli is on a job that is keeping him later than me. We came home and started Swae's homework. While we were doing that, Eli got home. Between him and I, we finished Swae's homework, got lunches ready for tomorrow, table set and the salad prepared. Then it was upstairs for early bath time. I knew that it would be best to do baths before our company so that after everyone left, I could lay them down for a movie to relax and drift into their slumber.

Dinner was a huge success. Everyone devoured their plates. It was so neat. I know I am a decent cook, I just never really cook for anyone other than Eli and myself. So to have others eat what I make and like it and come back for seconds was awesome. And I was totally organized. The kids enjoyed showing off their house and rooms. They are so proud. They point out their "big huge" beds and all their toys. It's funny to sit back and let them give the tour.

Once everyone left, we snuggled just the four of us for a bit and then the kids were laid down to watch a bit of their movie. Then it was night time and they were both sound asleep by 8:05. My goal was for them to be sleeping before 8:30, so I think I did good! Morning comes early for us tomorrow, so this is good.

I am now off to bed. I feel happy and peaceful. Great night with our family and so good going to sleep knowing our little ones are right next to us and get to wake up to their bright faces. Life is great!

YAY!!!!!!

So super excited. If you would like to know why...come here!!!! That's right, the hidden blog is back up and running and open to those who would like to read. Just send me your email.

18 - Our Day

The 18th is Eli's and my lucky day. It seems that most things happen on the 18 for us.

One year and six months ago we decided that we didn't want to be just friends and started dating - May 18, 2007

Four months and five days ago (I know, not the 18), Eli completely surprised me and proposed to me. It was one of the most happiest moments of my life - July 13, 2008

Our sweet girl is due in just four months - March 18, 2008

One month ago we became husband and wife - October 18, 2008

And our wedding with our most special friends and family will be in just eight months - July 18, 2009.

Each and every day I am thankful for him. I am truly, madly deeply in love with him and I look forward to many more months and years with him by my side. Together, we can make it through anything.

Wii Fit??

Going through my google reader today, someone posted about a woman, La Petite, that she stumbled upon and this woman is giving away a Wii Fit. I almost peed my pants. I have been wanting one of them for quite some time now. So, I did what any normal human being would do and went to check it out. I would love to win this little thing. It would be something I could use for myself, with my friends, with Swae. It would be awesome! Check it out for yourselves!!

Word Meme

Cat from My Two Cents tagged me for this Meme this morning.

The rules? Answer the following questions in one word and then pass it on to seven others.

Where is your cell phone? desk
Where is your significant other? crane
Your hair color? brown
Your mother? wonderful
Your father? awesome
Your favorite thing? family
Your dream last night? secret
Your dream/goal? successful
The room you’re in? office
Your hobby? camping
Your fear? disappointment
Where do you want to be in 6 years? happy
Where were you last night? birthday
What you’re not? bored
One of your wish-list items? clothes
Where you grew up? Reno
Last thing you did? work
What are you wearing? clothes
Your TV? big
Your pet? sweetest
Your computer? works
Your mood? content
Missing someone? yes
Your car? white
Something you’re not wearing? necklace
Favorite store? target
Your summer? short
Love someone? deeply
Your favorite color? brown
When is the last time you laughed? earlier
Last time you cried? Friday

I know pass this on to:
Mrs. F
Coffee Slut
Jodi
Ali
Christy
Rachel
Julia

Swoon Worthy

**Warning...you might vomit a little**

That is my husband. He sometimes surprises me when he has a romantic moment. Therefore, I was utterly surprised when he showed up at home after work bearing red roses and a beautiful card. It was the perfect way to start the weekend. Lately, him and I have been so busy, that we needed that little something to just reconnect. This weekend, I fell in love with him all over again. Every touch, every everything gave me butterflies and I am left this morning wishing that we had just one more day together.

I had to work for a few hours on Saturday and when I made it home, I found that he had cleaned for me knowing that it was something I was stressing over. He did so many little things this weekend to let me know that he thinks of me and how much he loves me. I couldn't ask for anything or anyone better to share my life with.

Last night we went to bed and he snuggled up behind me and instantly put his hand protectively over my belly. And I melted. This man is one of a kind and I am so thankful for him every day. It is so nice to be with someone that is my best friend, that I enjoy being around and never tire of. Sure we have our little pissing matches, but at the end of the day, we still love each other and we are still happy and so very much in love.

Award Monday

I received this lovely award from Coffee Slut. Thank you so much!!!!

Here are the rules for this one:
1. Mention the blog that gave it to you and comment on their blog to let them know you’ve posted your award.
2. Publish these rules.
3. Share 6 values that are important to you and 6 things you do not support.
4. Grant the prize to 6 people.

6 values that are important
1. honesty
2. integrity
3. respect
4. compassion
5. dependability
6. having a good heart

6 things I do not support
1. lying
2. selfishness
3. rude people
4. two faced people
5. stupidity
6. back stabbing

6 people I want to pass this onto ...

1. Jen

2. Lindz

3. Jenn

4. Lainey-Paney

5. Megan

6. Nellie

Big Kicks

Tonight is definitely going to be a memorable one for me. It is one that fills my heart with excitement and love.

We had Tara and Wesley over for the UFC fight. We enjoyed some guacamole dip, made kabobs, had some yummy pasta salad. Most of all, we enjoyed great time with great friends. Oh and the fights were good too.

Before we ate dinner, Skylar was kicking up a storm and before I could get anyone to put their hand on my tummy, she stopped. Tara was beyond disappointed. She was so anxious wanting to feel her. Eli then piped up that he has been feeling her a lot. At night when he spoons me, he is sure to keep a hand on my belly. And when I spoon him and have my belly up against his back, he feels her as well. I love that he is feeling her. I think it makes him feel even closer to our little sweetheart.

After dinner we were all sitting on the couch talking and Skylar started going crazy. They weren't little movements, they were HUGE ones. I calmly reached over and grabbed Eli's hand and put it on my belly and soon he was feeling on the outside what I was feeling on the inside. Skylar took a break and when she started up again, I grabbed Tara's hand and boy did she get to feel my little one. Skylar was pushing and kicking and moving. It was unreal. Tara was shocked at how well she could feel her and how much she was moving. It was seriously the neatest experience being able to share it with people that I love so much.

My mom has been trying to feel Skylar for a while now and when she does, she is always sleeping. I called her to let her know that her movements are getting stronger and that Eli and Tara just got done feeling her and she was so frustrated. Tomorrow her plan is for me to lay down until she is able to feel her move! She is so funny and definitely a proud grandma.

I can't believe my little girl is getting big enough and strong enough for others to feel! It's so exciting. I love this. I love being pregnant and it is making me even more excited for March to come when I get to hold her and kiss her!

Saturday 9: Kiss and Tell

If you would like to play, click here.

1. Who was the last person you kissed? my wonderful husband

2. What are you wearing now? pj bottoms and a t-shirt

3. What is your favorite meal at a fast food restaurant? depends where i am at.

4. Are you a morning person? i'm getting better, but not right when i get up

5. When you were young, what career did you want? a teacher, something i am still thinking about doing

6. Do you have a thing (it can be just fantasy) for a blogger that you read? not at all

7. Do you wear jewelry? my earrings, ring, and watch

8. Do you wear perfume or cologne? If yes what type? perfume, light blue

9. Do you think about sex a lot? what is considered a lot? i would have to say since being with eli, i do think about it A LOT. :)

Skylar's Room

As soon as I found out we were having a little girl, I got online and starting looking at room decor. And no matter what I looked at, this one always was the top pick in my head. What is funny is, if we were having a boy, I would have done the boy theme of this. I don't know why, but I just love it.
I love the little giraffes...they are my favorite. And everything matches and goes together so well. I am so freaking excited. And I think that I have figured out what crib I want to go with. It is one that will adjust to a toddler bed and then can either be used for a day bed or a full bed. So it is something that can be used for years and I feel better spending the money on!

We also started the registry. There are many changes that I want to make already. When you have three people helping you and you aren't the one holding the scanner, it is insane what gets put on. Plus, going back and reading reviews of things and then seeing what is better and higher rated. So, I will get to work on that. A lot of our family has asked about it, so I am trying to get as much done early as I can.

Advice...ASAP

I need to know what the best infant car seat is to get and the safest. I have been hearing so much lately about mom's that have chosen the seat they have based purely on "looks". This absolutely floors me and I refuse to be one of those mothers. I was to ensure that Skylar is going to be safe, even if her little seat isn't the cutest. Safety first.

So any advice would be great or if you could point me in the right direction...I would greatly appreciate it! :)

22 weeks 5 days

And the bump is definitely there. And I am LOVING it so very much. I find myself rubbing it without even knowing it. I always look down just so I can really take in that it is there. Watching it grow is such a wonderful feeling because I know that our little girl is growing. Swae was rubbing it this morning and talking to me about how Skylar is growing and I told her the more you see my belly grow, the bigger she is getting. Swae is always so cute and will always come and rub on my belly and she lays her head on it. Seth was pointing to it this morning telling me where baby Skylar's face was at. He cracks me up.
I think next week I will take a picture from not just the side, but the front as well and do that from now on. I was laying in bed the other night not being able to fall asleep when it hit me that there is only four more months left until our angel is welcomed into this world. That blows my mind, it really does. Four months goes by fast and will go by even faster with the holidays. I still feel very blessed and fortunate for how well this pregnancy has gone for me. I can only hope that my friends can experience the same.

Lately I have been way more tired than normal and Eli seems to think that it is everything catching up to me. I feel bad when I am so tired. I know that there will be a point when I will have to stop what I am doing and rest, but for now, I am still enjoying being able to work through the tiredness and get things done.

I have been looking at things to register for. I am tossed up on bedding and figure the only way to decide is to just keep looking and what I keep going back to will be what we will go with. There are just so many fun things out there. I don't want to ask for things that we won't need. I want the essentials. I want to be realistic. So that will be keeping me busy for a bit.

Happy Thursday all!

Tears and Almost Tears

This morning, I let the kiddos sleep in. They were so exhausted last night and didn't get to bed as early as we would have liked since we had a family birthday. Not wanting them to be too tired at school today or when they go back to their mom, they got some sleep (sleep they needed). We had another great morning. We did pretty much the same routine that we did yesterday, but took a little more time. It was nice.

First stop was daycare to drop Seth off. He has been quite the clingy boy and today he wasn't having being dropped off at all. He wouldn't let go of me. No matter what I tried to engage him in, he wasn't interested. His teacher couldn't even get him distracted on anything. So I held him a bit longer and loved on him a ton more. But I had to get Swae to school. His teacher grabbed him and that is when the melt down hit...and I almost followed. His sweet little face crying is enough to crush you. At that moment, I wanted to put his jacked back on him and bring him with me for the rest of the day. :(

Poor little man. I know that the tears probably didn't last long and that he is probably fine, but still. It sucks when they cry because they want to be with you.

Now comes the hard part...waiting to see them again until next Tuesday...

Wordless Wednesday

Day 1 = SUCCESS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Because I can, I am going to toot my own horn. I don't like to do it, but I am pretty proud of myself.

This morning marked the first of me no longer being able to just have to worry about myself in the morning to get ready and out the door. Instead, I had to get two little ones up, dressed, fed, teeth brushed, jackets, lunches, back packs, etc out the door ON TOP of myself. Now, having them on the weekends and having had plans before, I was somewhat prepared. However, wanting to be to work on time and prove (to myself) that I could do it, I was very anxious. I wanted to get up earlier than I did, but just couldn't. See, I couldn't fall asleep last night. All I could think about was what I was going to do when I got up, what time I was going to get the kids up, which kid I should start with, and then every other move from there on out. I laid in bed for three hours before finally falling asleep. I was then woken up at 3am when Eli went to the bathroom and my mind starting running all over again. By the time my alarm went off I was actually sleeping good and didn't for a second want to get out of bed. But, I had something to prove.

Out of bed and into the shower. Laying there for hours last night, I knew exactly what I was putting on and then did the make-up and hair. Then it was off to Swae's room. I made sure the heat was on because she hates getting out of bed when it is cold. She woke up without complaining and jumped in my arms. I helped her get dressed and then told her to come help me get Sethie up. Seth wasn't having it at first...then we made a game of it and he was all over it. Smiles and laughing filled the rest of my morning. Once Seth was dressed, I did Swae's hair and then the three of us went downstairs to have breakfast. It was so nice sitting at the table talking with them this morning and just seeing their bright shining faces. I honestly can't explain what it was like having them. And all I have heard from Eli today is how happy he is as well. After our cereal we were upstairs brushing teeth, then putting shoes on and out the door.

Yes, I had me and two kids up and out of the door in one hour. I rock, I know. The drive was pleasant and I enjoyed so much just chatting away with them. It made me not want to go to work. And after the day we had yesterday, I could totally see myself being a stay at home mom. Drop off went rather well. Swae wanted to come to work with me and Seth was a clingy little monkey that had to be pried away from me. I am not going to lie, my heart freaking melted when I got in my car to leave and saw two sweet angels sitting in the window waving at me and blowing me kisses. Talk about starting my morning off fabulous.

And I was on time for work. A few minutes early even. I was stoked. I would have liked to have had a little bit of extra time but I am sure I will have that when I actually get a decent nights sleep. I have no doubt that tomorrow morning will go well and I am looking forward to it. I am loving this new schedule...absolutely loving it.

Our Sweet Angel

I honestly can't believe I haven't gotten these up sooner. Just goes to show how insanely busy I have been. My goodness. What a bad mom I am. Although late, here they are. Keep in mind, she was sleeping after being super active all day up until my appointment and made it to where we couldn't get a good face shot of her. I do have high hopes that at the next one, we will get a better one.

Oh and we have decided on a name. We were actually decided on a girl name for quite some time. It was the boy name we weren't sure of until the night before the appointment.

Ladies and gentlemen...meet Skylar Marie Walker!!!!!!!!! *

She is beautiful already!!!


And this my friends she might kill me for later, but it shows her little girlie bits. They say the three lines is classic for female parts. I truthfully knew she was a girl the minute I saw her sweet face on the screen!

I'm thinking the last ultra sound will be in December. We are watching my placenta to see if it will move out of the way. I read about it last night and feel a ton more comfortable with the whole thing.

*Initially Eli and I were thinking of keeping with the "S" theme so the baby would be like Swae and Seth, but our boy name was actually a "T". It just so happened that out of all the girl names we both liked, Skylar won out and it happened to be an "S".

Happy Veteran's Day!

I love paid days off. You just can't beat them. And nothing is better than having a day AND getting to spend it with two great kiddos. I am beyond excited. Normally, I look forward to sleeping in. Rather than look forward to more sleep today though, I looked forward to getting up and meeting their mother to get them. Plus I would much rather have them home with me than at daycare, especially since Swae hasn't been feeling well. It works out for all.

Today is going be full of getting everything ready for the rest of the week, grocery shopping, taking Daddy lunch, naps, and who knows what else. Eli was saying last night one of our friends might be coming over tonight for dinner. I am just happy to be off of work and getting things done, but mostly being with the little ones. And they are in some great moods today.

I am also looking forward to them staying the night tonight. Today starts our new schedule and they will be staying with us the next two nights. I am stoked. I can't wait. I have been looking forward to this since Friday. From what the kids have been saying, they are beyond excited as well. I will be sure to go to bed around the same time that I put them down tonight so that I am sure that I have no problem getting up in the morning. I am going to get up extra early to make sure that I have me ready before waking up the little ones. It's going to be awesome!

I hope everyone has a fabulous day!

Flu Shot

I went and got my flu shot this morning. It is something my doctor suggested both Eli and I get since I am pregnant. I have heard about the flu shot for quite some time and have known people to get it, but had never considered it for myself. But now that I am pregnant, I have to think of my sweet little angel and not just myself. And I am all about doing what is best for protecting her.

I had no clue where to go. I had seen signs around town for free ones and had no idea how much it would even be if I did have to pay to get one. Toward the end of last week, I started feeling really run down and like I was getting something. Then our little princess was sick over the weekend and I realized that I needed to pay whatever price needed to have that shot. I had called the Health Center at UNR and they said it would be $20...worth it to me. Hell, I would have paid anything.

Off I went and after not too long of a wait I was taken back. Before I was even in the room, the nurse asked if my left arm was okay. I said sure and pulled my left arm out of my sweatshirt as I was sitting down. Before I was even situated in my chair, she swabbed my arm and the stuck me. Then it was over. It was quick, easy, and painless. She was ready to shove me out the door, but before she did, I asked a few questions. See, I had heard just recently some negative things about the flu shot. I have heard and read people saying that they got the shot and then actually experienced all the flu symptoms other than actually throwing up. Another group said they got it and within a week were sick with the flu. Everything that she had to say made me feel better. She said that if people ended up sick, it was because their bodies were already week and getting the shot just lowered their immune system enough to allow it. She said that the actual shot doesn't cause you to get the flu. I asked about the pain from the shot and she said that there had been talk that this years serum actually made your arm a little sore, but nothing bad.

I walked out with an open mind and felt fine the rest of the day. My arm didn't feel like it had gotten a shot at all - at least until I stopped using it for a bit. But even now, it isn't hurting. Just a little tight where the shot was given. I have had worse shots that is for sure. I am happy I got it. Oh and I didn't have to pay. I asked her if I needed to check out or turn anything in and she said nope we were good. So, I didn't even have to pay the $20 after all.

Thankful

We get more time with the kiddos. No amount of money or material things could beat that. We are so very blessed, so very fortunate and got exactly what we wanted. Today is an excellent day and we are now ready to go enjoy our weekend!

21 weeks 5 days Belly Shot

Man on man, what a morning. I made sure to set a reminder on my phone so that I wouldn't forget to take a picture. And I didn't have a lot of time to take a bunch of them because I needed to get my butt to work, so it isn't the best picture. Oh well. I think I look smaller here than I did last week. Crazy because I feel like I am a million times bigger this week than last week. Either way, I have been eating well and taking good care of myself to make sure my little girl is getting all that she needs.

It is still so incredible to say "she" and "her". I love it. My friend that is a month ahead of me is having a little boy and she calls her little one an "it" still so often. I am so in love with this little girl already. I am so excited and am enjoying being pregnant so much. I have bought her a couple of things with my favorites being a cute little sweat outfit and a little onesie that says, "I love my big sister." Swae was so excited when she saw that one and read the words to herself. Her face lit up like a Christmas tree. I was at Babies-R-Us the other day and saw so many cute outfits and so many things that referred to big sisters, mommy, and daddy...but nothing for big brothers. So I am going to have to do some research. Both kids talk about their little sister all the time and they have quite the imagination on what they are going to do when she comes. They aren't enjoying the fact that she isn't 'out' yet. It thrills me to know that they are excited. Both of them want to hold her and feed her and they are going to play house where Swae is the mom and Seth is the dad. It's just too damn cute.

Everything is going well. I am getting lots of rest, eating healthy (aside from some Halloween candy!), and staying active. It is too cold now for me to want to be outside so it looks like I will be at the gym walking on the treadmill or doing the elliptical for some exercise.

Some of Sister's Senior Picture

I am so very thankful and happy that I got to be a part of the decision making yesterday. Her pictures turned out absolutely gorgeous. Man, he does nice work. It is the same guy that did mine. My sister was happy with them and that is what matters. We won't get the ones that we actually picked for a while, but they put up a handful of the shots on their website. So I took them and have put them here for you all to see. I wish they would have put up all our favorites, but even the ones that aren't our favorites turned out fantastic. See for yourselves!

She is so beautiful and is way more photogenic than me. I am blessed to have such a great girl for a little sister and so very proud as well. I had my mom order me two for myself (one of them is the last one) and then the other is one of her sitting by the river that is just beautiful. So insane that she just got SENIOR PICTURES! Yikes...

Wordless Wednesday

Can't Believe It

It is days like today when I realize that I am getting old and that my baby sister is growing up. She is no longer a baby and maturing into a young woman. This is her senior year in high school and today she will be getting her senior pictures. I can't believe that she is almost out of high school and will be embarking on her journey to college so soon. It blows my mind. I remember the 2 year old cutie with pig-tails following me everywhere and getting into everything. It is just insane how fast time flies.

She is such a beautiful girl with a huge heart. And today my day was made when she asked me if I could get away from work to go look at the proofs with her to help make the best selection. My heart was filled with joy and love. Being nine years apart is sometimes hard because we are in such different stages in our lives. But it definitely has its advantages. So today I will be blessed with having lunch with her and my mom and then will go help her make her decision on which pictures to get. I am truly honored to be a part of this with her and can't express enough how much it means that she wants me there. I love her so much and know that her pictures are going to turn out absolutely gorgeous!

Manic Monday #140

If you want to play, click here.

How many hours of TV do you watch per week? Do you feel that's too much, not enough or just right?
It depends what Eli is watching. Usually about 5 or so hours. Could be more, could be less. All depends on what we have going on.

Which of the 5 senses do you feel is your strongest sense?
Probably a tie between my hearing and taste.

What's the wackiest belief you held as a child?
I was convinced that there was someone that waited for me to take out the trash at night to kidnap me.

Shocking...

So Saturday I got very frustrated. No matter what bra I put on, I looked like shit in my shirt. You see, my boobs have changed sizes and I have been so stubborn that I have not gone to get any new bra's. So I have been cramming my itty bitty's into my tiny bra. The tiny bra they were quite comfortable in...which is now too small and just doesn't cut it. I was pissed and told Eli that I needed to get new ones. His response was perfect, "Get whatever you need babe." Man I love him.

Off I went to Kohl's. I had some Christmas things to grab and they usually have a pretty good selection of bra's and very good prices. I found a rack that had bra's on sale for $10. Now that was my kind of deal. So I grabbed a 34-B and was off to the fitting room to make sure it was comfortable. I undressed my top area, put the bra on and about passed out. The B was too small still. How the hell had I been wearing the A all this time? Out I went to grab a C and was sure that it wasn't going to fit. Nope, fit like a glove. Perfectly. Tara tried telling me that is what I would be wearing, but I just didn't believe her. I mean, how could I? I barely fit into A's before this little girl started growing inside me!

I am still floored. When I got dressed this morning and put on the new bra, I was still shocked to see that it really did fit. And let me just tell you what a comfort it is to see that I don't look like a martian in my tops anymore.

Halloween Pictures

I am not sure where the time has gone today, but I am blown away that it is already 1pm. I still have so much work that needs to be done. However, I wanted to post how precious the kiddos were on Halloween. I swear, that was the best Halloween ever. I had so much fun and watching them run from house to house and get so excited was better than getting candy myself! Plus I know I get to 'share' theirs! The plan was to trick-or-treat at Eli's parents so we took them up to my families earlier in the day.

Trying on their costumes to show my side of the family.
At my parents. They weren't even all done up yet and they were still cute!

All done up and ready to go. Swae was a gorgeous "princess" devil.

Seth was super proud of his costume and wouldn't stop showing off.

They were so excited to go get some CANDY!

He is a fierce pirate, watch out.

The cousins together.

Seth hammin' it up like always.

Swae out on her mission for the goods. Ugh, she is so freaking beautiful.

The man showing us all that he had scored so far. Cutest pirate of all time!

Like Swae said when we were in the car, definitely a Halloween to remember. Next year we will only have our little girl and she won't be old enough to go out trick-or-treating. I imagine it will be a much different experience.