Poop. Boobs. Sleep - my life revolves around those 3 things right now. HAHA. We are waist deep in baby-ville here at the Foster house. I am loving it. Emrey has been home for 5 days now. I couldn't be happier to be home with my two beautiful girls - lack of sleep and all. :)
Ellinor is quite fond of Emrey already. She likes to check on baby while she snoozes in the bassinet and pat her blankets. Ellinor gets really excited every time Emrey makes a squeal or noise of any kind, and she has to say "Hi Baby" and "Bye Baby" any time she leaves the room that Emrey currently is basking in. It is all dang adorable. Needless to say I am thrilled at this reaction to baby's arrival. I was a bit worried that the novelty would wear off within hours, but so far so good.
There have been a few moments of Ellinor jealousy. The other day Ellinor shoved herself between the dresser and my legs while I was changing Emrey - she wanted me to drop what was I doing and attend to her that instant. There are also a few times when Ellinor will pat the couch cushion for me to lay Emrey down on while I am holding her - so as to free myself for playing with Ellinor. Bryan and I came home from the hospital to a new attitude that Ellinor apparently has adopted. There are a lot of "No's" emphatically yelled about and a few downright tantrums thrown that we had to yet to see prior to baby's birth. The first time I witnessed one was the night we came home and I was totally shocked. I literally was taken aback and had no idea how to react. LOL - oy vey. I'm assuming this side of Ellinor is the consequence of big changes at home and her growing into a big girl. We are working on taming these new qualities of hers. ;)
Emrey is thriving! At her weight check on Friday she clocked in at a chunky 3 pounds, ten ounces. So proud of her! This girl is a champion eater and I am thrilled that breastfeeding seems to be working out this time around. It was quite a struggle with Ellinor. Emrey eats every 2-2.5 hours, sleeps round the clock (other than her random energy spurts at 1am), and is an absolute delight! So blessed to have her here with us.
There was a booger initiation the other day. I was sitting on the couch, holding Emrey right after feeding her, and Ellinor was cuddled up next to her. I looked over and caught Ellinor picking her nose. I told her that was yucky! The next thing I know Ellinor had gently swiped the booger off her finger and right onto poor Emrey's head! GROSS. Through laughter I insisted to Ellinor that we don't put boogers on baby - she looked at me and promptly removed the offending snot. Emrey has certainly left the completely sterile hospital environment. Haha. I have a feeling these girls are going to be besties!
I won't go into detail - TMI for most anybody - but breastfeeding and pumping in between for Emrey has led to Ellinor's current curiosity with breasts. I'm just going to say that it is HILARIOUS, some of the antics she has pulled. Love her to pieces - I can't believe how incredibly grown up she now seems.
I love my two girls. I am extremely blessed to have them. Life is good - we are working on adjusting to new schedules, 2 babies, and twice the responsibility. More to come! (I need to create a new blog since the Foster family is no longer a trio - just trying to think of a new name and get ready for a whole new URL)
Sunday, March 31, 2013
Thursday, March 21, 2013
Emrey Rae Foster!
Emrey is here! We are so excited to have this little angel with us!!
Per the decision made between us and our doctor, I was induced Tuesday morning. We decided it was the best course of action to bring Emrey into the world just a bit earlier than normal to help her grow. It's much easier to chub a baby up when you can see her. ;) The entire labor process took only 6 hours - not the most fun 6 hours - but it wasn't too bad. There is ONE bonus of having a very small baby to deliver. :) Our little girl was born even smaller than the specialists were estimating from the ultrasounds - a whopping 3 pounds 4 ounces. I could tell right away that we would be repeating our experience from Ellinor's birth. At least we have an idea of what we may be in for - the experience is not as frightening this time around.
Emrey is currently sun bathing under the bilirubin lights and also gets to nap on top of a bilirubin light blanket. Her numbers spiked yesterday but thanks to wonderful doctors and nurses in the NICU, and a blessing from her daddy, the numbers are steadily dropping back down. We crossing our fingers that this does not take too many more days to stabilize. In order to bring our lovey home her levels have to be stabilized for a couple of days. She is not happy about the feeding tube in her nose, but this will help us make sure she is fed enough. It is hard to see my baby all hooked up with IVs, monitors, feeding tube, bilirubin lights and mask - I'd much rather her just swaddled up and cuddling with me. But I am so grateful for the modern technology and medicine that makes her treatment possible. I know we are truly blessed these days with the advancements that Heavenly Father has allowed us to make.
Emrey was swept away with the Life Flight ground crew to IMC within an hour of being born. I was able to give her a quick kiss and Ellinor got to say hello while she way laying in the incubator transport bed. Poor Ellinor is not allowed in the NICU at all so she hasn't gotten to meet baby sister since. We show her pictures but it is hard to grasp the concept of having a baby when you can't actually meet her! ;) I am super anxious to have both of our beautiful girls together. They already look so much alike!! I can only imagine the fun we will be having with them as they grow up together.
Bryan and I were able to stay at the hospital last night and we get to again tonight. The NICU has a couple of parent rooms available - you put your name on the list if you are interested in staying in one and then wait to find out in the afternoon if it's open for you (based on availability and the situation of each family's baby). Fingers crossed we draw the lucky number again tomorrow - trying to breastfeed means I need to be available to Emrey through the night. Ellinor is doing well with Grandma Carolyn to care for her. We miss her incredibly when we are up at the hospital!! It's already a weird balancing game to play between the 2 girls. I need two of me so I can be there for both equally!! I am grateful for the help of family and we know she is in the best of hands. Hopefully Ellinor forgives us for the fragmented time together these last couple of days.
I appreciate all of the well wishes and prayers that have been sent our way! Thank you to all of you who have been following Emrey and rooting her on. She is a darling baby girl and will be home before we know it! I have total confidence. :) We will continue to post pictures and count down to her homecoming.
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| Relaxing in her incubator |
Per the decision made between us and our doctor, I was induced Tuesday morning. We decided it was the best course of action to bring Emrey into the world just a bit earlier than normal to help her grow. It's much easier to chub a baby up when you can see her. ;) The entire labor process took only 6 hours - not the most fun 6 hours - but it wasn't too bad. There is ONE bonus of having a very small baby to deliver. :) Our little girl was born even smaller than the specialists were estimating from the ultrasounds - a whopping 3 pounds 4 ounces. I could tell right away that we would be repeating our experience from Ellinor's birth. At least we have an idea of what we may be in for - the experience is not as frightening this time around.
Emrey is currently sun bathing under the bilirubin lights and also gets to nap on top of a bilirubin light blanket. Her numbers spiked yesterday but thanks to wonderful doctors and nurses in the NICU, and a blessing from her daddy, the numbers are steadily dropping back down. We crossing our fingers that this does not take too many more days to stabilize. In order to bring our lovey home her levels have to be stabilized for a couple of days. She is not happy about the feeding tube in her nose, but this will help us make sure she is fed enough. It is hard to see my baby all hooked up with IVs, monitors, feeding tube, bilirubin lights and mask - I'd much rather her just swaddled up and cuddling with me. But I am so grateful for the modern technology and medicine that makes her treatment possible. I know we are truly blessed these days with the advancements that Heavenly Father has allowed us to make.
Emrey was swept away with the Life Flight ground crew to IMC within an hour of being born. I was able to give her a quick kiss and Ellinor got to say hello while she way laying in the incubator transport bed. Poor Ellinor is not allowed in the NICU at all so she hasn't gotten to meet baby sister since. We show her pictures but it is hard to grasp the concept of having a baby when you can't actually meet her! ;) I am super anxious to have both of our beautiful girls together. They already look so much alike!! I can only imagine the fun we will be having with them as they grow up together.
Bryan and I were able to stay at the hospital last night and we get to again tonight. The NICU has a couple of parent rooms available - you put your name on the list if you are interested in staying in one and then wait to find out in the afternoon if it's open for you (based on availability and the situation of each family's baby). Fingers crossed we draw the lucky number again tomorrow - trying to breastfeed means I need to be available to Emrey through the night. Ellinor is doing well with Grandma Carolyn to care for her. We miss her incredibly when we are up at the hospital!! It's already a weird balancing game to play between the 2 girls. I need two of me so I can be there for both equally!! I am grateful for the help of family and we know she is in the best of hands. Hopefully Ellinor forgives us for the fragmented time together these last couple of days.
I appreciate all of the well wishes and prayers that have been sent our way! Thank you to all of you who have been following Emrey and rooting her on. She is a darling baby girl and will be home before we know it! I have total confidence. :) We will continue to post pictures and count down to her homecoming.
Wednesday, March 6, 2013
Life
A little under 2 weeks until baby's arrival - at least, as long as planned induction at 37 weeks remains. Bryan and I are both ready and not so ready. We have most everything set up and all the basics covered (thanks to this being baby number 2, lol) - it's more the emotional readiness that isn't quite there. Ellinor is our entire world. It is hard to imagine how to fit another little human into that sphere. I know it all works out. And we are excited. Just anxious for different reasons this time around.
My kitchen is looking sooooo beautiful. BRAGGING ALERT - I have the most awesome husband. He has tackled this project like a pro. I also don't mind pointing out that he looks dang sexy while doing the work. :) Yep, he's my hot stuff. I am grateful for such a hardworking man. He does his absolute best for me in everything - I just hope he knows how much I appreciate and love him.
Pictures will be posted upon completion of phase 1 - phase 2 is flooring and island, scheduled for this summer hopefully.
This morning's wake up call at 5am was projectile vomit from Ellinor when I went in to check on her. It was fun. I'm to the point where I just stripped my shirt off right there, cleaned her up and passed back out in my bed. Unfortunately for Ellinor, she was awake every 15 minutes after that with more throw up or dry heaving. Our poor girl - it's so hard to see her that miserable. After a few more projectile incidents earlier today (always while I was cuddling her, to boot) she is doing much better. Still not eating or drinking a lot, but almost back to her usual spunky self. I was able to get her to bed right on time tonight and I hope she has a restful sleep - her little body needs it. Thank goodness this just seems to have been an upset tummy episode - no fever or any other yucky symptoms going on. Fingers crossed for a happy girl in the morning!!
My kitchen is looking sooooo beautiful. BRAGGING ALERT - I have the most awesome husband. He has tackled this project like a pro. I also don't mind pointing out that he looks dang sexy while doing the work. :) Yep, he's my hot stuff. I am grateful for such a hardworking man. He does his absolute best for me in everything - I just hope he knows how much I appreciate and love him.
Pictures will be posted upon completion of phase 1 - phase 2 is flooring and island, scheduled for this summer hopefully.
This morning's wake up call at 5am was projectile vomit from Ellinor when I went in to check on her. It was fun. I'm to the point where I just stripped my shirt off right there, cleaned her up and passed back out in my bed. Unfortunately for Ellinor, she was awake every 15 minutes after that with more throw up or dry heaving. Our poor girl - it's so hard to see her that miserable. After a few more projectile incidents earlier today (always while I was cuddling her, to boot) she is doing much better. Still not eating or drinking a lot, but almost back to her usual spunky self. I was able to get her to bed right on time tonight and I hope she has a restful sleep - her little body needs it. Thank goodness this just seems to have been an upset tummy episode - no fever or any other yucky symptoms going on. Fingers crossed for a happy girl in the morning!!
Thursday, February 28, 2013
March Madness!
We are going to be having a March baby this year - April is just not going to work out after all.
Bry and I went to the Perinatologist appointment on Tuesday morning and left with a whole new baby arrival plan. As my doctor feared, baby girl isn't growing as they would like. She is at least 3 weeks behind and looks to have some nutritional/placenta troubles. Because I was already 34 weeks along at this appointment it makes seeing all of baby's anatomy in the womb much harder, so the doctor wasn't able to get as thorough of a look at everything as she would have liked. There are a few other potential problems that need to be watched for and will be tested/examined for once baby girl is born.
Usher in the next few weeks. I will be going in for doppler, nonstress test, and amniotic fluid testing twice a week moving forward - on top of other normal doctor visits. As long as this monitoring doesn't produce any changes in the readings or show any distress we are planning on being induced at 37 weeks - if something were to pop up before then they will have me deliver earlier. We are still up in the air about whether I will deliver at my normally planned hospital with my OBGYN, or deliver at the IMC hospital where the specialists and NICU are available. Hopefully that will be decided in the next couple of weeks, as I am willing this pregnancy to the 37th week.
I guess we are going to be 2 for 2 when it comes to tiny babies. And that is OK with me, as long as this little girl is well in everything else. There tends to be the 2 sided coin in these situations - either baby is completely fine with no negative side effects or we could run into a few different icky things. I am feeling pretty confident that this little one is going to be just fine. She is as active as ever and looks to be doing great, given the circumstances. I feel like once she is born we can breathe a sigh of relief.
The stress at this point is the worry that naturally comes with anything like this. Already being so emotional these days I am keeping it together just barely. I am also slightly overwhelmed at balancing these appointments, prepping for baby's arrival, caring for Ellinor and still trying to keep it easy - I've been told to delegate everything possible and focus on resting only. Which is much harder to do with a toddler, a busy working husband, and lots of to-do list items staring me in the face. Thank goodness for a dear friend who is willing to babysit Ellinor for me - Sherlyn you are amazing!! Also, my mom is going to come into town on March 9th! I cannot wait for her arrival. I have been blessed with an amazing support system - my mother-in-law was willing to drive out for a few days and then come back a few weeks later after baby was born, just so she could help out this week. I appreciate the help that I am given.
I was washing and folding baby clothes yesterday (Ellinor is such a great helper - she wanted to put each piece of clothing in the washer and dryer herself) and got really excited all of the sudden. I have been so busy with life and anxious about changes that I haven't really let myself dwell on the fact that I have another daughter arriving shortly. It will be so wonderful to finally meet her. Last night I was talking to Bryan about being a little sad that I only have a couple of weeks left with just Ellinor and I. He understood but reminded me that once this baby girl is here it will all feel so natural and meant to be - like she was here the whole time. Just as it felt when we brought Ellinor into this world. And I know it will.
On a lighter note - our kitchen remodel starts this weekend. Too funny - we finally order the counters, buy the tile for the new backsplash, etc. and then our due date gets moved up. It always works out like that. ;) Bryan will be moving cabinets and tearing out the old backsplash this weekend in preparation for counter installation next Tuesday. I am so excited! Just hoping this little girl stays put until it's all done. :)
I never posted about Ellinor's actual 2nd birthday. It was really low-key this year with everything else going on, so I feel like a slightly lame mother. We took Ellinor for her big girl pictures, out shopping to pick out her birthday present, and had a dinner/cake for her on Sunday. Aunt Becca and soon-to-be Uncle Nick came down to sing to her and they brought her a present as well. Ellinor sure does love opening presents - she even thinks the mail is exciting to open and Bry has to immediately relinquish it to her when he comes home. Too funny. She LOVED blowing out her candle. I had to keep moving the cake further away from her while we sang 'Happy Birthday' so that the poor flame would last to the end of the song. Though low-key I know Ellinor had a good time - she just loves getting attention from her favorite people and she got to eat cake with her hands. Who wouldn't have a good time doing that?! :)
We are blessed! We are grateful for our amazing life! And we are looking forward to meeting our newest addition shortly!
Thursday, February 21, 2013
Ellinor Update
Ellinor is 2 this Sunday!! I really cannot believe that we've had this little blessing in our lives for 2 years already. We are always told how fast life goes by but I don't think I believed it until recently. Ellinor continues to be the most precious, feisty, and loving addition to our family. She truly keeps us running in circles and stretching - and we love every minute of it.
Ellinor had her 2 year old check up today with Dr. Liddle, so I thought I would do an update post on her current stage.
* Ellinor weighs a whopping 23 pounds (7% on the charts) and is 33 inches tall. This was the biggest jump into the growth charts she has had in her short life, so yahoo!
* This girl is the pickiest eater I have ever come across - it is a constant struggle to get some healthy nutrition into her. But we continue to fight the battle and I'm sure she will grow out of this stage eventually.
* "Winnie The Pooh," "Toy Story," and "Monster's Inc." are current favorite movies. She gets incredibly animated during the rescue scene of the great huffalump adventure and she loves to act out Buzz Lightyear's "To Infinity and Beyond...." Bryan bought her a little stuffed Sully toy that she proudly displays on her bookcase in her room - she rotates between wanting to cuddle with him and not wanting him anywhere near her bed. LOL.
* Ellinor is in absolute love with her daddy. She cannot contain her excitement when he comes home from work and they usually spend the evenings hanging out with each other - after all, Dad gives piggy-back rides and has fun, loud tools to play with. Mom can't touch that kind of coolness. ;)
* She continues to love dancing and now will choose various stuffed animals and babies to dance with her. We are really enjoying watching her get into that imaginative play as she interacts with her toys, talks on her phones, and builds things.
* Our daughter loves to color - she will choose a pen over crayons any day, but is happy with both. She has yet to discover drawing on the walls but I have to watch our books closely.
* We listen to the Disney Channel on Pandora pretty much daily. I have to hide the ipad from her so that she will play instead of watch movies and surf the screens. And anything techy within her grasp is quickly absconded with.
* Bath time continues to be her favorite activity. Given the option she would never get out of the water. We are definitely going to need to look into some swim lessons/classes for her this summer.
* Ellinor is an absolute joy! She loves most anybody around and is a pretty social little girl. I love hearing her yell 'Mommy' when she wants to play or needs my attention and the random squeeze hugs she doles out.
Basically, Bryan and I are in love with our little girl. We couldn't be happier with her and look forward to continue watching her grow. We are excited to bring her little sister home and we just know she will be wonderful with the baby. Big changes and adventures are hurriedly coming our way!
Ellinor had her 2 year old check up today with Dr. Liddle, so I thought I would do an update post on her current stage.
* Ellinor weighs a whopping 23 pounds (7% on the charts) and is 33 inches tall. This was the biggest jump into the growth charts she has had in her short life, so yahoo!
* This girl is the pickiest eater I have ever come across - it is a constant struggle to get some healthy nutrition into her. But we continue to fight the battle and I'm sure she will grow out of this stage eventually.
* "Winnie The Pooh," "Toy Story," and "Monster's Inc." are current favorite movies. She gets incredibly animated during the rescue scene of the great huffalump adventure and she loves to act out Buzz Lightyear's "To Infinity and Beyond...." Bryan bought her a little stuffed Sully toy that she proudly displays on her bookcase in her room - she rotates between wanting to cuddle with him and not wanting him anywhere near her bed. LOL.
* Ellinor is in absolute love with her daddy. She cannot contain her excitement when he comes home from work and they usually spend the evenings hanging out with each other - after all, Dad gives piggy-back rides and has fun, loud tools to play with. Mom can't touch that kind of coolness. ;)
* She continues to love dancing and now will choose various stuffed animals and babies to dance with her. We are really enjoying watching her get into that imaginative play as she interacts with her toys, talks on her phones, and builds things.
* Our daughter loves to color - she will choose a pen over crayons any day, but is happy with both. She has yet to discover drawing on the walls but I have to watch our books closely.
* We listen to the Disney Channel on Pandora pretty much daily. I have to hide the ipad from her so that she will play instead of watch movies and surf the screens. And anything techy within her grasp is quickly absconded with.
* Bath time continues to be her favorite activity. Given the option she would never get out of the water. We are definitely going to need to look into some swim lessons/classes for her this summer.
* Ellinor is an absolute joy! She loves most anybody around and is a pretty social little girl. I love hearing her yell 'Mommy' when she wants to play or needs my attention and the random squeeze hugs she doles out.
Basically, Bryan and I are in love with our little girl. We couldn't be happier with her and look forward to continue watching her grow. We are excited to bring her little sister home and we just know she will be wonderful with the baby. Big changes and adventures are hurriedly coming our way!
Monday, February 18, 2013
Counters and Teeth
New countertops! Yep - it's finally happening. Bry and I ordered our new countertops tonight along with a new sink and faucet. We have to pick out the backsplash next. We once loved the idea of the glass mosaic tiles, but have since decided it will look too busy with the counters we chose. I think we will end up going with a simple, yet beautiful, subway tile. Hopefully by the end of this upcoming summer the cabinets are repainted, new floors installed and island complete. So excited to finally be moving forward on our kitchen renovation - yays for steps in the right direction!
Also - 7 weeks left of pregnancy. Woohoo! As anxious as I am about the changes this little baby is bringing (and boy, I'm anxious) I am getting excited to move past the pregnant stage. I do love certain aspects of pregnancy - I can feel confident even with an ever-expanding tummy ;), I have that ultimate connection with this growing baby, and the anticipation is exciting. But I'm also ready to start getting back to my old self. Or, as close to my old self as I can get between utter exhaustion and caring for 2 babes. Haha.
Last night I had the same dream over and over again - this because I'm woken up often by various things. I was at a dinner with Bryan and his ex-girlfriends and my teeth kept falling out. Just my bottom teeth - and in chunks at a time. It was awful. We were also out of town in Cali so I couldn't get them repaired. Weird. This morning Bryan and I looked up the dream interpretation of losing one's teeth: insecurity, big life changes, and anxiety over relationship changes were the answers. Apparently I am starting to feel a little stressed about life's developments in the next several weeks. LOL - at least my teeth aren't literally falling out. That would be awful, obviously.
Bring on the next couple of months!!
Also - 7 weeks left of pregnancy. Woohoo! As anxious as I am about the changes this little baby is bringing (and boy, I'm anxious) I am getting excited to move past the pregnant stage. I do love certain aspects of pregnancy - I can feel confident even with an ever-expanding tummy ;), I have that ultimate connection with this growing baby, and the anticipation is exciting. But I'm also ready to start getting back to my old self. Or, as close to my old self as I can get between utter exhaustion and caring for 2 babes. Haha.
Last night I had the same dream over and over again - this because I'm woken up often by various things. I was at a dinner with Bryan and his ex-girlfriends and my teeth kept falling out. Just my bottom teeth - and in chunks at a time. It was awful. We were also out of town in Cali so I couldn't get them repaired. Weird. This morning Bryan and I looked up the dream interpretation of losing one's teeth: insecurity, big life changes, and anxiety over relationship changes were the answers. Apparently I am starting to feel a little stressed about life's developments in the next several weeks. LOL - at least my teeth aren't literally falling out. That would be awful, obviously.
Bring on the next couple of months!!
Thursday, February 14, 2013
Rooms!
The nursery is coming along!!
Bryan worked very hard to finish painting the room for me and we have moved some of the furniture in. Time to work on some artwork for the walls and we will be ready - as far as decor goes, that is. :) I love it!!
Ellinor seems to believe she has 2 bedrooms now. LoL. Occasionally she will go into the nursery and want to be rocked - she has even requested to be put in the crib a few times. I oblige, as I don't want her holding a grudge against baby if I don't allow her to explore the room enough. Plus, I still LOVE rocking her and having that time together. As far as I'm concerned, Ellinor can enjoy both rooms as much as pleases. She really is fond of her new big girl room though and is getting used to the new set up. Sleeping is going smoother every night. It's crazy to see how big the changes make her appear - I'm just glad she is still small enough to cuddle close. :)
Bryan worked very hard to finish painting the room for me and we have moved some of the furniture in. Time to work on some artwork for the walls and we will be ready - as far as decor goes, that is. :) I love it!!
Ellinor seems to believe she has 2 bedrooms now. LoL. Occasionally she will go into the nursery and want to be rocked - she has even requested to be put in the crib a few times. I oblige, as I don't want her holding a grudge against baby if I don't allow her to explore the room enough. Plus, I still LOVE rocking her and having that time together. As far as I'm concerned, Ellinor can enjoy both rooms as much as pleases. She really is fond of her new big girl room though and is getting used to the new set up. Sleeping is going smoother every night. It's crazy to see how big the changes make her appear - I'm just glad she is still small enough to cuddle close. :)
Friday, February 8, 2013
Ugh, Oy, Sigh...
Sad news to report. Migraine is still present and full of fury for me. I even called my doctor this morning - she was out of the office along with her nurses. It was all very helpful. I have a muscle relaxant/tylenol prescription waiting for me at the hospital 40 minutes away if I want it. Maybe tomorrow.
Grateful for my mom who listens so lovingly when I cry on the phone because I do not know what else to do. Grateful for a daughter who still loves me even though I have failed in the patience arena today. Grateful for my hubby who is quick to take care of everything when I need him to.
Prayers this migraine migrates on out of here by tomorrow. I'm not going to take a more extended stay very kindly.
Apart from my health, life really is outstanding. Lots of blessings to count!!
Grateful for my mom who listens so lovingly when I cry on the phone because I do not know what else to do. Grateful for a daughter who still loves me even though I have failed in the patience arena today. Grateful for my hubby who is quick to take care of everything when I need him to.
Prayers this migraine migrates on out of here by tomorrow. I'm not going to take a more extended stay very kindly.
Apart from my health, life really is outstanding. Lots of blessings to count!!
Thursday, February 7, 2013
Our Day
Ellinor and I braved Walmart for some groceries today. I've been meaning to go shopping since Monday morning but have been stuck in the house with the worst migraine ever - well, at least the worst one in a couple of years. Today I woke up feeling like it was more manageable and decided I should pick up food for my family - one of those things you can't really go without. Haha.
I always get a little nervous about big grocery trips. Ellinor is either extremely well behaved or the exact opposite - and with how hard it is for me to just want to walk around the store to begin with I was in no mood for a trying toddler morning. But she did excellent! She only tried to throw the eggs out of the cart once and we made it out of the store in an hour. I was so thrilled that I let her enjoy the little car ride on our way out. She loves that thing - and if 50 cents makes her smile that big I have no problem with it (as long as she behaved well).
My super handsome husband was given a promotion at work this morning. I'm so excited for him!! Bryan works incredibly hard for us every day and I am grateful to have picked such an ambitious, talented man to marry. He really is the best - Ellinor and I adore him. So - congrats Bryan Foster!! Love you! :)
Goals for this weekend - assist Bry in finishing up the baby's room (painting). Hunt down and hang curtains for both of the girl's bedrooms. Spend some quality time with my hubs on Saturday - our first date outing in quite some time (thank you sister for babysitting!).
On the pregnancy front, there is nothing new to report as of today. I've been experiencing more Braxton Hicks loveliness and the lower back pain is such a joy - but I can't complain too much. It's all part of the process. :) Fingers crossed this migraine finally leaves town - 4 days is more than enough time to leave its' mark.
I always get a little nervous about big grocery trips. Ellinor is either extremely well behaved or the exact opposite - and with how hard it is for me to just want to walk around the store to begin with I was in no mood for a trying toddler morning. But she did excellent! She only tried to throw the eggs out of the cart once and we made it out of the store in an hour. I was so thrilled that I let her enjoy the little car ride on our way out. She loves that thing - and if 50 cents makes her smile that big I have no problem with it (as long as she behaved well).
My super handsome husband was given a promotion at work this morning. I'm so excited for him!! Bryan works incredibly hard for us every day and I am grateful to have picked such an ambitious, talented man to marry. He really is the best - Ellinor and I adore him. So - congrats Bryan Foster!! Love you! :)
Goals for this weekend - assist Bry in finishing up the baby's room (painting). Hunt down and hang curtains for both of the girl's bedrooms. Spend some quality time with my hubs on Saturday - our first date outing in quite some time (thank you sister for babysitting!).
On the pregnancy front, there is nothing new to report as of today. I've been experiencing more Braxton Hicks loveliness and the lower back pain is such a joy - but I can't complain too much. It's all part of the process. :) Fingers crossed this migraine finally leaves town - 4 days is more than enough time to leave its' mark.
Tuesday, February 5, 2013
And the Lucky Number is.....
Celebrating 31 weeks today with the worst migraine I've had in years - yays! OK - complaining done. 31 weeks! Finish line is within view - both exciting and nerve wracking as heck.
My husband has been painting for me - because he is awesome like that. Pictures coming soon - when I'm not too lazy to upload them.
And our internet is back up today - we've been without it for a few days due to a random short in the phone line. I didn't realize how much I use said internet until it was gone. Grateful for modern technology, that is for sure.
Hoping for a productive day tomorrow - and more energy for my ever rambunctious toddler!
My husband has been painting for me - because he is awesome like that. Pictures coming soon - when I'm not too lazy to upload them.
And our internet is back up today - we've been without it for a few days due to a random short in the phone line. I didn't realize how much I use said internet until it was gone. Grateful for modern technology, that is for sure.
Hoping for a productive day tomorrow - and more energy for my ever rambunctious toddler!
Thursday, January 31, 2013
Bugging
I'm frustrated with politics today. I'm frustrated with society in general, really. The politics are where we play out all of the other problems we face as a people. I'm anxious about how passionate the divide between parties, communities, ideologies and generations is becoming. I'm sad at the lack of civil discourse and seemingly common sense approach to solving our difficulties.
Each day the news seems to report a little more violence than the day before. More crime than the day before. More foreboding than the day before. Our reaction? Overreaction at the wrong causes for the effects we are witnessing. It is not a matter of more legislation or regulation that is needed in our country today - I should say world today, rather - but more personal responsibility. We need to accept responsibility for our actions, choices, opinions, voices, etc. We need to take at least a small amount of personal pride in how we conduct ourselves, what values we prize the most, and what principles are worth standing for. We need to forgo the superficial and refocus on the eternal.
For instance - there is the current gun control debate raging through our communities. Sparked up again by the horrible Newtown tragedy we find ourselves, as Americans, spewing at each other over what the solution is for such violent acts. Based on the noble cause of protecting our children and neighborhoods we have digressed to fighting like toddlers. Name calling, finger pointing, yelling without pausing to listen. Neither side is the enemy here - we all want what is best for our country and people. And like a true democracy we are privileged to work it out as a union; however, that is not what we are seeing.
In the midst of all this conflict I find myself exasperated by the arguments deployed. It is true - I fall more on the conservative right when it comes to gun control. I believe whole heartedly in the validity of the Constitution of these United States. I hold true that the founding fathers were inspired from God on High when it was written and ratified. The 2nd Amendment is not there to allow for crime and violence, but to protect us as citizens from the very government types we came to America to escape from. How does a revolution take place with unarmed citizens? I am not crying out for a modern revolution - I am just defending the need for that 2nd Amendment.
Those on the side of stricter gun control argue that we do not need more than simple rifles to go hunting or shoot for sport. The problem is they are reigning in the 2nd Amendment to cover only the right for such activities. I'm sorry - I just do not believe the founding fathers would have thought hunting such an important right that we needed a constitutional amendment to protect it. It goes far deeper than that. I am not a conspiracy theorist. I do not believe President Obama is going to try to take over our nation and make us bow down to the United Nations, or something of that sort. But, in all honesty, who really saw Hitler coming? Who saw Stalin's reach until it was almost too late? Back in the 1700's who foretold us laymen fighting a war against the entire British Army? We cannot know everything - we cannot predict the future or what enemies we may encounter, both of the human kind or others. The 2nd Amendment is there to protect and provide for us. I, for one, am not willing to disband it.
On the other hand, I realize that people are scrambling for answers to today's violence. I do not blame them. It is scary out there. I am frightened at how much worse it's going to get. The unfortunate part is that those members of our society who inflict this terror are not going to press pause due to more regulation. It has been illegal to kill since the start of time - yet, does that stop them? If someone truly wants to harm another being, cause havoc, wreak terror and ultimately break the law they are going to do so with whatever means they can drudge up. Why then continue to regulate and infringe on the liberties of the rest of us? Law abiding citizens are already doing their duty when it comes to owning weapons. We are already being responsible. Why must we be handcuffed for the crimes another committed?
This debate, and the many others we face today, is a difficult one. I do not envy those on Capital Hill who are sent to make the final decisions. They do not have an easy job. That does not, however, give them permission to do so poorly at the tasks they have before them. Let us breathe, pause and try to work together. Let us demand better listening ears from our representatives. Let us require that common sense and decency prevail in our legislative and judicial halls. Let us call for civil, respectful discourse and action.
Personal responsibility, family responsibility, good parenting, forgiveness, kindness, respect - all those basic, fundamental principles that have long been widely accepted in our society are eroding. That is the CAUSE of the EFFECTS. We are creating our own problems through our irreverence for morality and values. This is paraded out in our political spheres. As Americans, we have created the closest thing to a perfect union in the history behind us. We can fix those tears we face. I have faith we can do it again. We just need to remember our history, learn from it, respect each other, and - most importantly - do not alienate that God who blessed us with this country in the first place.
Wednesday, January 30, 2013
Big Changes
Ellinor is officially a big girl! She has fully transitioned into a 'big girl' bed as of last night. I am ridiculously emotional about this change. Last night I was a bucket of tears and snot (very glamorous, you know). But I digress - I should start from the beginning.
Almost 2 weeks ago now we left for a quick trip to Redding, CA to visit Bryan's parents (Barry and Lyne). They had kindly set up a beautiful guest room for us to stay in at their home, complete with adorable toddler bed for little Miss Ellinor. I had been told prior to the trip that they had a bed for her instead of the crib we used last time. I was nervous. I told Bryan that this would probably mess with her sleeping habits because she had always been in a crib (and she is normally such an amazing sleeper that I would defend her schedule/habits to the death. haha) but when in Rome... :) While in Redding Ellinor did alright with the bed - she loved it, but wouldn't stay in it for long at all. And wasn't too keen on napping. I was hoping this was just a combination of the excitement of being at Grandma and Grandpa's house and the fact that Bry and I were sleeping in the same room as her. Why sleep in your own bed when you can crawl into mom and dad's so easily?
I didn't think much of it when we headed back home and Ellinor crashed per usual in her crib our first night back in UT. Undoubtedly due to utter exhaustion from 5 days of vacationing. And then it started - the next night brought on bloody murder screaming when we put her in the crib. And I am not exaggerating AT ALL. She just absolutely refused to be put back in her prison cell (or so it seemed to her). Oh man - I was panicked. These days I am so exhausted by bed time that the idea of fighting with my almost 2 year old was the least appealing thing in the world. We tried cry it out, soothing her every 10 minutes or so, rocking her and singing until she passed out. There were many moments when Ellinor was fast asleep on us but woke up angrily when we approached the crib. It was her 6th sense. We finally broke down on the 2nd night of this drama and removed her crib mattress from the frame and made Ellinor a bed on the floor. She didn't scream when placed on this, but then we had the perpetual chasing game every time she ran out of her room.
Needless to say it was a long few nights. We brainstormed and guessed that the crib mattress on the floor felt too much like a game, versus her bed. So we took the front frame off the crib, put the mattress back on and made a makeshift toddler bed. This went over much better with little miss. We still had a few back and forth escapes but it only lasted about 35-40 minutes this time around. And so we were content with this sleeping arrangement for a couple of days. Nap time was a different story - I had to allow her to fall asleep in my bed and then move her.
I make this sound so dramatic, but really Ellinor is a champ. We only had a couple of days where I was at my wits end (and even then, the horror story was nothing compared to what I hear from some parents). I called my parents on Sunday night and asked for the magic secret. They laughed and wished us all the best. :) LOL. But after those couple of days Ellinor started doing really well. Eventually I got her to nap in her own bed, falling asleep in it from the beginning - sure it took about 1.5 hours to get there but I counted it as successful.
Finally Bryan and I decided to just skip using a toddler bed set up and go right to the twin bed. We didn't want to deal with another transition in a few months. With baby sister coming soon it will be plenty of change already. We took Ellinor shopping for some fun bedding, which she was very excited about. She oohed and aahed for a bit and seemed happy with the choice. Last night Bry picked up the mattress and frame on his way home from work and the excitement began. Ellinor was her usual helpful self and insisted on building the frame with Bryan - causing him to work extra hard to miss little fingers. :) She also pranced around on the mattress for awhile and immediately tested out it's capacity for jumping on it. I believe it passed with flying colors!
Ellinor helped us set up the bed in her room, get all her new bedding on it - she even insisted on throwing a purple stuffed bear up there for good measure. SHE LOOKS SO TINY on the big girl bed. I about lost it! She's still my baby - how can she be in such a big bed?! We did our usual bed routine, tucked her in and I settled down by her to sing and help her to fall asleep. I couldn't even get through Itsy-Bitsy Spider without crying. She started doing all the motions with me and I was completely overcome with how quickly my little 3.7 pound infant has turned into this beautiful, tenacious, smart toddler. It has just flown by too quickly. I'm not ready to think of her as the BIG kid yet - as much as I love watching her grow and learn I equally miss holding my first little baby.
I'm sure Bryan thought I'd lost it completely - I was leaking mascara down my face, puffing up like nobody's business and had to lock myself in the bathroom to clean up all the uncontrollable snot. Total ugly crying. But I'm good now - and happy to report that Ellinor did AMAZING last night. We only worked for about 35 minutes to finally get her to stay in bed and fall asleep and she didn't make an appearance in our room until 6am. She usually just runs in and stands by one of our sides - looking at us but not making any noise. It's kind of adorable. LoL. We missed her so much by then so I pulled her into bed at this morning's wake up call and let her finish the night with us.
We are excited that this transition is going so smoothly - thankfully! Because I couldn't have handled it any other way, I'm sure of it. We truly are blessed with the perfect little darling - as perfect as a toddler can be. ;)
Almost 2 weeks ago now we left for a quick trip to Redding, CA to visit Bryan's parents (Barry and Lyne). They had kindly set up a beautiful guest room for us to stay in at their home, complete with adorable toddler bed for little Miss Ellinor. I had been told prior to the trip that they had a bed for her instead of the crib we used last time. I was nervous. I told Bryan that this would probably mess with her sleeping habits because she had always been in a crib (and she is normally such an amazing sleeper that I would defend her schedule/habits to the death. haha) but when in Rome... :) While in Redding Ellinor did alright with the bed - she loved it, but wouldn't stay in it for long at all. And wasn't too keen on napping. I was hoping this was just a combination of the excitement of being at Grandma and Grandpa's house and the fact that Bry and I were sleeping in the same room as her. Why sleep in your own bed when you can crawl into mom and dad's so easily?
I didn't think much of it when we headed back home and Ellinor crashed per usual in her crib our first night back in UT. Undoubtedly due to utter exhaustion from 5 days of vacationing. And then it started - the next night brought on bloody murder screaming when we put her in the crib. And I am not exaggerating AT ALL. She just absolutely refused to be put back in her prison cell (or so it seemed to her). Oh man - I was panicked. These days I am so exhausted by bed time that the idea of fighting with my almost 2 year old was the least appealing thing in the world. We tried cry it out, soothing her every 10 minutes or so, rocking her and singing until she passed out. There were many moments when Ellinor was fast asleep on us but woke up angrily when we approached the crib. It was her 6th sense. We finally broke down on the 2nd night of this drama and removed her crib mattress from the frame and made Ellinor a bed on the floor. She didn't scream when placed on this, but then we had the perpetual chasing game every time she ran out of her room.
Needless to say it was a long few nights. We brainstormed and guessed that the crib mattress on the floor felt too much like a game, versus her bed. So we took the front frame off the crib, put the mattress back on and made a makeshift toddler bed. This went over much better with little miss. We still had a few back and forth escapes but it only lasted about 35-40 minutes this time around. And so we were content with this sleeping arrangement for a couple of days. Nap time was a different story - I had to allow her to fall asleep in my bed and then move her.
Finally Bryan and I decided to just skip using a toddler bed set up and go right to the twin bed. We didn't want to deal with another transition in a few months. With baby sister coming soon it will be plenty of change already. We took Ellinor shopping for some fun bedding, which she was very excited about. She oohed and aahed for a bit and seemed happy with the choice. Last night Bry picked up the mattress and frame on his way home from work and the excitement began. Ellinor was her usual helpful self and insisted on building the frame with Bryan - causing him to work extra hard to miss little fingers. :) She also pranced around on the mattress for awhile and immediately tested out it's capacity for jumping on it. I believe it passed with flying colors!
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| Don't mind her outfit - she wanted to wear her high heels which apparently required removing her PJs :) |
Ellinor helped us set up the bed in her room, get all her new bedding on it - she even insisted on throwing a purple stuffed bear up there for good measure. SHE LOOKS SO TINY on the big girl bed. I about lost it! She's still my baby - how can she be in such a big bed?! We did our usual bed routine, tucked her in and I settled down by her to sing and help her to fall asleep. I couldn't even get through Itsy-Bitsy Spider without crying. She started doing all the motions with me and I was completely overcome with how quickly my little 3.7 pound infant has turned into this beautiful, tenacious, smart toddler. It has just flown by too quickly. I'm not ready to think of her as the BIG kid yet - as much as I love watching her grow and learn I equally miss holding my first little baby.
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| Our tiny BIG girl |
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| Trying it out |
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| Reading a bedtime story to Daddy |
I'm sure Bryan thought I'd lost it completely - I was leaking mascara down my face, puffing up like nobody's business and had to lock myself in the bathroom to clean up all the uncontrollable snot. Total ugly crying. But I'm good now - and happy to report that Ellinor did AMAZING last night. We only worked for about 35 minutes to finally get her to stay in bed and fall asleep and she didn't make an appearance in our room until 6am. She usually just runs in and stands by one of our sides - looking at us but not making any noise. It's kind of adorable. LoL. We missed her so much by then so I pulled her into bed at this morning's wake up call and let her finish the night with us.
We are excited that this transition is going so smoothly - thankfully! Because I couldn't have handled it any other way, I'm sure of it. We truly are blessed with the perfect little darling - as perfect as a toddler can be. ;)
Tuesday, January 29, 2013
Colors!
I have finally decided on a color scheme for baby girl's room -
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Pink, Gray and Green. I think it should be pretty darling! I'm excited to pick out the paint, figure out a design for the walls and get started. Poor Bryan - he has a lot of work ahead of him. ;) Thank goodness he is so incredibly awesome and carries out the 'honey-do' list without a complaint to be found. Have I mentioned I love him?
I had my 30 week appointment today for baby girl. Her last ultrasound looked like all was well, but it turns out her growth is a bit concerning. She looks to be at least a week behind compared to the ratio of growth she had at the last ultrasound - not a huge issue on its own, but if her growth continues to slow down or never catches up it will compound on itself. She is just not where they want her to be. I have an appointment with a perinatologist on Feb 26th for a special follow up ultrasound and consultation. There is a chance that my genetics just make for small babies, but with the two-vessel cord situation the growth is something to be concerned about. Not going to lie - I'm pretty stressed. While being reassured at every corner by our doctors and the percentages of healthy babies with 2-vessel cords I was sure we would finish out this pregnancy without any bumps. Already having regular ultrasounds every 4-6 weeks keeps the possible issues on my mind, and now being referred to a specialist because there is bit of a red flag is just so fun. In the realm of everything that could happen we are extremely lucky. That doesn't erase the stress and worry from us mamma's though, does it? With Ellinor's situation at her birth we are on extra high alert already. Prayers all is well and baby girl has caught up by this next ultrasound!
We are currently transitioning Ellinor from crib to big girl bed - post coming soon!
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Pink, Gray and Green. I think it should be pretty darling! I'm excited to pick out the paint, figure out a design for the walls and get started. Poor Bryan - he has a lot of work ahead of him. ;) Thank goodness he is so incredibly awesome and carries out the 'honey-do' list without a complaint to be found. Have I mentioned I love him?
I had my 30 week appointment today for baby girl. Her last ultrasound looked like all was well, but it turns out her growth is a bit concerning. She looks to be at least a week behind compared to the ratio of growth she had at the last ultrasound - not a huge issue on its own, but if her growth continues to slow down or never catches up it will compound on itself. She is just not where they want her to be. I have an appointment with a perinatologist on Feb 26th for a special follow up ultrasound and consultation. There is a chance that my genetics just make for small babies, but with the two-vessel cord situation the growth is something to be concerned about. Not going to lie - I'm pretty stressed. While being reassured at every corner by our doctors and the percentages of healthy babies with 2-vessel cords I was sure we would finish out this pregnancy without any bumps. Already having regular ultrasounds every 4-6 weeks keeps the possible issues on my mind, and now being referred to a specialist because there is bit of a red flag is just so fun. In the realm of everything that could happen we are extremely lucky. That doesn't erase the stress and worry from us mamma's though, does it? With Ellinor's situation at her birth we are on extra high alert already. Prayers all is well and baby girl has caught up by this next ultrasound!
We are currently transitioning Ellinor from crib to big girl bed - post coming soon!
Friday, January 25, 2013
Noses and Tap Dancing
Husbands are the best. They just are. Bryan Foster is amazing and I love, love, love him. Enough said.
I had an ultrasound this morning to check on little miss. She is doing so well! At least, as far as the tech could see. She did really seem to know her stuff so I am embracing her assessment. :) We will have the full radiologist's feedback at my appointment this upcoming Tuesday. Baby is running a little on the small side but it doesn't seem to be because of any health concerns. I think I'm just destined to have little angels. Hopefully slightly bigger than Ellinor this time around though. ;) From the pictures we received at the ultrasound we can already tell she has the same nose Ellinor and I share. They are going to look so much alike. I AM SO EXCITED. Yesterday I was having anxiety about the changes a 2nd child will bring and the amount of work. Seeing her again today, though, reassured me that this is the plan and everything is going to be perfect. Cannot wait to meet her!
I've said it many times before and I know I will say it again - Ellinor is a natural born dancer. She just has to move and groove. She has recently been given tap shoes. Let me just say this was a big day in her little life. She adores them! I keep them in her dress up box and she insists on wearing them every day and dancing up a storm. When she got the shoes in Redding she had to be taken in the backyard promptly so she could tap on the deck. Now she is good with using the kitchen floor for her stage. IT IS ADORABLE. Ellinor is amazing. I love watching her dance. I hope she will continue to dance and enjoy it as much for the rest of her life - and I'm crossing my fingers that her confidence about the whole thing never wanes.
Here is a video link - trust me, you want to watch it. :)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ywgsP0xEEBM&list=UUUe6ShzH_JmpzYcqBTIEdiw&index=1
I had an ultrasound this morning to check on little miss. She is doing so well! At least, as far as the tech could see. She did really seem to know her stuff so I am embracing her assessment. :) We will have the full radiologist's feedback at my appointment this upcoming Tuesday. Baby is running a little on the small side but it doesn't seem to be because of any health concerns. I think I'm just destined to have little angels. Hopefully slightly bigger than Ellinor this time around though. ;) From the pictures we received at the ultrasound we can already tell she has the same nose Ellinor and I share. They are going to look so much alike. I AM SO EXCITED. Yesterday I was having anxiety about the changes a 2nd child will bring and the amount of work. Seeing her again today, though, reassured me that this is the plan and everything is going to be perfect. Cannot wait to meet her!
I've said it many times before and I know I will say it again - Ellinor is a natural born dancer. She just has to move and groove. She has recently been given tap shoes. Let me just say this was a big day in her little life. She adores them! I keep them in her dress up box and she insists on wearing them every day and dancing up a storm. When she got the shoes in Redding she had to be taken in the backyard promptly so she could tap on the deck. Now she is good with using the kitchen floor for her stage. IT IS ADORABLE. Ellinor is amazing. I love watching her dance. I hope she will continue to dance and enjoy it as much for the rest of her life - and I'm crossing my fingers that her confidence about the whole thing never wanes.
Here is a video link - trust me, you want to watch it. :)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ywgsP0xEEBM&list=UUUe6ShzH_JmpzYcqBTIEdiw&index=1
Thursday, January 24, 2013
There's A Shakespeare Quote about this...
Names - they are a tricky thing. We didn't have too much trouble picking out Ellinor's name. Although Bryan later admitted to not liking the name until he saw it together with our little girl. It just seemed to click so perfectly.
I think Evelyn is still the winner. Nothing else pops for us. Literally hundreds of names have been poured over, multiple times, and not a single one stands out above the rest - other than Evelyn. I suppose that is our answer right there. Perhaps it is time to just let it all go. If it doesn't seem right when we hold this second little one we will figure it out. But for now Evelyn feels the best.
Thank goodness my only real worry at this time is whether the name we have chosen is good enough for our daughter!! Haha - what a blessed life we live.
I think Evelyn is still the winner. Nothing else pops for us. Literally hundreds of names have been poured over, multiple times, and not a single one stands out above the rest - other than Evelyn. I suppose that is our answer right there. Perhaps it is time to just let it all go. If it doesn't seem right when we hold this second little one we will figure it out. But for now Evelyn feels the best.
Thank goodness my only real worry at this time is whether the name we have chosen is good enough for our daughter!! Haha - what a blessed life we live.
Wednesday, January 23, 2013
California Blues
We are home - back to the frozen tundra. ;)
Redding was a nice getaway. I was sick for the entirety of the trip, but I enjoyed the clear air and warm temperatures anyhow. California weather really has a way of sucking you in. If it weren't for their pesky politics and financial issues I think we would be relocating ASAP. :)
We always love visiting with family. I especially like to see Ellinor strengthening her relationship with her grandparents. I have always known my grandparents pretty well and I hope to keep that going for our children. There is just something special about grandmas and grandpas - every little girl needs them in her life! They are magic - I swear it. ;) Plus, Bryan and I both happen to really like our parents. We need to see them just as much!
The air quality is horrible in this state. You wouldn't expect UT's air to be the worst in the country, but due to our valley sitting in a nice geographical bowl we are! I used to not think much of it, but my cough was returned with a vengeance just since getting back in town yesterday. It was all but gone when we left Redding; alas, I am hacking up a storm yet again. At least I know the antibiotics should be keeping me from getting worse. Yay for doctors and meds!
I get to visit with Evelyn during an ultrasound this Friday. :) Pretty excited to see her again! I am 29 weeks and the reality of this little girl's impending arrival is almost overwhelming! There is so much to be done still - not to mention the mental and emotional preparation for bringing another addition into our home. I am thrilled to be blessed with another daughter. It's a weird feeling to know that in a matter of a couple of months I will have two girls to dote on - I'm just hoping Ellinor handles the transition well. Actually, let's be honest - Ellinor is a champ. She will welcome Evelyn and be her amazing self as she always as. So, the hope is that Bryan and I handle the transition well. Haha.
"Itsy Bitsy Spider" and "Popcorn Popping" are our new favorite activities. Ellinor has mastered all of the hand movements for the songs and LOVES to sing them. I'm seldom happier than when we sing these songs together. I just get so thrilled watching her learn - not to mention proud in how smart she is. ;) My baby is no longer a baby, but rather a toddler. While bittersweet to lose my sweet infant Ellinor, this new stage is absolutely fantastic!
OK - goal for this weekend. Finally pick a bumper or fabric to work off of for Evelyn's room. I need to get this ball rolling!!
Redding was a nice getaway. I was sick for the entirety of the trip, but I enjoyed the clear air and warm temperatures anyhow. California weather really has a way of sucking you in. If it weren't for their pesky politics and financial issues I think we would be relocating ASAP. :)
We always love visiting with family. I especially like to see Ellinor strengthening her relationship with her grandparents. I have always known my grandparents pretty well and I hope to keep that going for our children. There is just something special about grandmas and grandpas - every little girl needs them in her life! They are magic - I swear it. ;) Plus, Bryan and I both happen to really like our parents. We need to see them just as much!
The air quality is horrible in this state. You wouldn't expect UT's air to be the worst in the country, but due to our valley sitting in a nice geographical bowl we are! I used to not think much of it, but my cough was returned with a vengeance just since getting back in town yesterday. It was all but gone when we left Redding; alas, I am hacking up a storm yet again. At least I know the antibiotics should be keeping me from getting worse. Yay for doctors and meds!
I get to visit with Evelyn during an ultrasound this Friday. :) Pretty excited to see her again! I am 29 weeks and the reality of this little girl's impending arrival is almost overwhelming! There is so much to be done still - not to mention the mental and emotional preparation for bringing another addition into our home. I am thrilled to be blessed with another daughter. It's a weird feeling to know that in a matter of a couple of months I will have two girls to dote on - I'm just hoping Ellinor handles the transition well. Actually, let's be honest - Ellinor is a champ. She will welcome Evelyn and be her amazing self as she always as. So, the hope is that Bryan and I handle the transition well. Haha.
"Itsy Bitsy Spider" and "Popcorn Popping" are our new favorite activities. Ellinor has mastered all of the hand movements for the songs and LOVES to sing them. I'm seldom happier than when we sing these songs together. I just get so thrilled watching her learn - not to mention proud in how smart she is. ;) My baby is no longer a baby, but rather a toddler. While bittersweet to lose my sweet infant Ellinor, this new stage is absolutely fantastic!
OK - goal for this weekend. Finally pick a bumper or fabric to work off of for Evelyn's room. I need to get this ball rolling!!
Tuesday, January 15, 2013
Did I Just Do That?
Well, we have hit the 28th week mark! Wowzers! I thought my first pregnancy flew by but this one takes the cake. It must have something to do with that toddler that I'm chasing all day - after all, my entire universe revolves around her at the moment.
My alarm went off at 7am this morning. It was a nightmare; one that I had carefully scheduled, but a nightmare nonetheless. I hate mornings. Really truly hate. And my current stage of exhaustion these days makes a 7am wake up call pretty abhorrent. But hey, first world problems right?! Anyhow - I headed to the doctor for my usual 4 week check up. This one was a special occasion though. The glucose screening! When pregnant with Ellinor this test went off without a hitch. I didn't even think the drink tasted bad. So I pranced into my appointment ready to go and then get on with my day. I guzzled the orange dream in about 2 minutes and so the hour timer began before the blood draw. I was only in with my doctor for 5 minutes - a pretty routine check up - then headed down the hall of the medical building to the lab. I was prepared with my Abe Lincoln biography, solitaire on my phone and a lobby of magazines to get me through the 45 minute wait.
Lucky for me (just a tad sarcastic there) the lab was having a busy morning - barely a seat in the house to choose from. I settled in and began to read. Suddenly the nausea ship set sail - and I mean it really came on quick! I told myself not to panic. After all, I hadn't had a problem with this stuff last time around. 5 minutes later I started getting shaky. Then my head felt feverish. When the sweating kicked in I knew I was toast. As luck would have it there was another pregnant lady in the lab's restroom. I wasn't about to vomit in the crowded lobby's garbage can. I tried to discreetly gather my things and head out the door - basically dying in my effort to not upchuck on the couple coming through the door at the exact time of my exit. I WAS PANICKING. No restroom available and no privacy for the next foreseeable yardage. I raced down the hall and vomited into the first garbage can I could find - a small one propping the door open to the elevator lobby. It was uncontrollable - and those of you who know me, I have no gag reflex so it's like moving heaven and earth for me to throw up.
After the horror had passed I snapped around and took a perimeter check. What a blessing! In this bustling medical building not another soul was in the lobby to witness my embarrassment. And let me tell you, I was dying. I'm a lady. I don't THROW UP IN PUBLIC. This is where the real charmer comes in - I had to use the inside of my jacket to wipe my mouth. I felt like Ellinor at that moment, just using whatever I had on. Haha. I made my way back into the lab and found an empty restroom. I quickly snagged it and cleaned myself up. I wasn't too much of a mess actually, thank goodness - I just won't mention what I had to get out of a few strands of my hair. Rinsed my mouth best I could, brushed my hair and waltzed out as if no big thing had just happened.
I sat back down in the lobby and tried not to pass out - extreme body shakes, nausea and fatigue kept me company for the rest of my wait. I was given the OK to continue with the test and submitted to the blood draw at the required time.
My mom assures me this is a common occurrence with pregnant women and the glucose drink. I am still mortified a bit. The joys of pregnancy. This time around it has really thrown me for a loop. Hopefully all comes back well from the results and I do not have to go through this again. Fingers crossed!!
On a happy note, all looks well with baby girl! :) We are now in the final countdown. An appointment every 2 weeks moving forward to check on things. My next ultrasound is Jan 25th. I am looking forward to seeing her again! I am starting to get both really excited and anxious about my impending due date. I have the nesting bug, that's for sure. Time to sew, paint and organize!
My alarm went off at 7am this morning. It was a nightmare; one that I had carefully scheduled, but a nightmare nonetheless. I hate mornings. Really truly hate. And my current stage of exhaustion these days makes a 7am wake up call pretty abhorrent. But hey, first world problems right?! Anyhow - I headed to the doctor for my usual 4 week check up. This one was a special occasion though. The glucose screening! When pregnant with Ellinor this test went off without a hitch. I didn't even think the drink tasted bad. So I pranced into my appointment ready to go and then get on with my day. I guzzled the orange dream in about 2 minutes and so the hour timer began before the blood draw. I was only in with my doctor for 5 minutes - a pretty routine check up - then headed down the hall of the medical building to the lab. I was prepared with my Abe Lincoln biography, solitaire on my phone and a lobby of magazines to get me through the 45 minute wait.
Lucky for me (just a tad sarcastic there) the lab was having a busy morning - barely a seat in the house to choose from. I settled in and began to read. Suddenly the nausea ship set sail - and I mean it really came on quick! I told myself not to panic. After all, I hadn't had a problem with this stuff last time around. 5 minutes later I started getting shaky. Then my head felt feverish. When the sweating kicked in I knew I was toast. As luck would have it there was another pregnant lady in the lab's restroom. I wasn't about to vomit in the crowded lobby's garbage can. I tried to discreetly gather my things and head out the door - basically dying in my effort to not upchuck on the couple coming through the door at the exact time of my exit. I WAS PANICKING. No restroom available and no privacy for the next foreseeable yardage. I raced down the hall and vomited into the first garbage can I could find - a small one propping the door open to the elevator lobby. It was uncontrollable - and those of you who know me, I have no gag reflex so it's like moving heaven and earth for me to throw up.
After the horror had passed I snapped around and took a perimeter check. What a blessing! In this bustling medical building not another soul was in the lobby to witness my embarrassment. And let me tell you, I was dying. I'm a lady. I don't THROW UP IN PUBLIC. This is where the real charmer comes in - I had to use the inside of my jacket to wipe my mouth. I felt like Ellinor at that moment, just using whatever I had on. Haha. I made my way back into the lab and found an empty restroom. I quickly snagged it and cleaned myself up. I wasn't too much of a mess actually, thank goodness - I just won't mention what I had to get out of a few strands of my hair. Rinsed my mouth best I could, brushed my hair and waltzed out as if no big thing had just happened.
I sat back down in the lobby and tried not to pass out - extreme body shakes, nausea and fatigue kept me company for the rest of my wait. I was given the OK to continue with the test and submitted to the blood draw at the required time.
My mom assures me this is a common occurrence with pregnant women and the glucose drink. I am still mortified a bit. The joys of pregnancy. This time around it has really thrown me for a loop. Hopefully all comes back well from the results and I do not have to go through this again. Fingers crossed!!
On a happy note, all looks well with baby girl! :) We are now in the final countdown. An appointment every 2 weeks moving forward to check on things. My next ultrasound is Jan 25th. I am looking forward to seeing her again! I am starting to get both really excited and anxious about my impending due date. I have the nesting bug, that's for sure. Time to sew, paint and organize!
Thursday, January 10, 2013
News
I may stop watching the news. That would be hard for me - I like to feel at least somewhat informed about the world's happenings. But I tend to get either extremely sad or irritated after every news cast I tune in to. Last night Bry and I were discussing all this drama over the gun control debate. We are not for extremely restrictive laws or outright banning of guns, but this whole issue has gotten bloated. Obviously it inflames a lot of passions across the board - and the tragedy at Newtown brought those passions back to the forefront of public discussion. But rather than come together as a unified country, we are polarizing ourselves even further. It's frustrating - but just as I feel strongly about my opinions, I can't blame the other side for the same. I suppose I'm just wishing we could have more intelligent debates.
It's good to keep up on the news though. I would love to live in bliss but not if it means ignorance. The frustration really boils down to my feeling that I cannot make a difference, no matter how strongly I feel one way or the other about the issues at hand. I feel like I could contribute somehow - but in what way? I'm just another person in this country. So, I've decided that my contribution and service is how I raise my children. I will teach Ellinor and Evelyn all of the important values that seem to be disappearing ever more rapidly in our world. I will strive to mold them into amazing, helpful, kind, loving and smart citizens. If every home had that as its goal, we may just find these world issues resolving themselves.
The Gospel and church leaders have had it right all along - true success has to be achieved in our home. Without loving, strong families there really are no solutions to the calamities on the news. I will try to focus on the Gospel, my family and the important things that transcend the superficial of this world. Maybe this way watching the news won't be so intolerable. Or it will - in that case, I just pray harder. ;)
It's good to keep up on the news though. I would love to live in bliss but not if it means ignorance. The frustration really boils down to my feeling that I cannot make a difference, no matter how strongly I feel one way or the other about the issues at hand. I feel like I could contribute somehow - but in what way? I'm just another person in this country. So, I've decided that my contribution and service is how I raise my children. I will teach Ellinor and Evelyn all of the important values that seem to be disappearing ever more rapidly in our world. I will strive to mold them into amazing, helpful, kind, loving and smart citizens. If every home had that as its goal, we may just find these world issues resolving themselves.
The Gospel and church leaders have had it right all along - true success has to be achieved in our home. Without loving, strong families there really are no solutions to the calamities on the news. I will try to focus on the Gospel, my family and the important things that transcend the superficial of this world. Maybe this way watching the news won't be so intolerable. Or it will - in that case, I just pray harder. ;)
Monday, January 7, 2013
Boredom is in Perception
Bry called me this morning to report the craziness he found at the gym - all the New Years Resolution members had descended in droves with new resolve. It's one thing to have a busy gym, another to wait in line for 20 minutes for each machine. Anyway, after reporting about his escape from the madness he asked what Ellinor and I were up to for the day - my report took all of 3 seconds. It was only 10:30am and we had accomplished all chores for the day, played and had snack. I reported that my highly exciting life left a wide berth of unfilled time for the day - sarcastically highlighting my boredom already.
That's when Sleeping Beauty rescued me. After hanging up with Bryan Ellinor bade me follow her to her room. I dutifully tagged along and she promptly dumped out her dress up trunk, patted the ground for me to sit by her, and began excitedly showing me every item that was in the upended trunk. She was thrilled to be playing with these dress up accessories for the 90th time - no boredom present in her beautiful face. We proceeded to dress up all of her Clifford and Friends stuffed animals, which she thought was the funniest thing in the world. Then I helped her into her outfit of choice - the Sleeping Beauty top, Cinderella skirt, earrings and church shoes. Ellinor pranced in front of her mirror, hugged and lined up her stuffed animal friends and had a great time frolicking in her room; never forgetting to turn around and include her mamma in the fun.
I was struck by how much fun I was having watching Ellinor enjoy herself so. I love seeing her happy and listening to her laugh. Taking pictures of her adorable faces and videoing the funny way she talks these days. How could I possibly have thought we'd have the most boring day in the world? How can a day be boring with an almost 2 year old? Sure - dishes, cleaning, the lunch routine, diaper changing - some of my daily activities may not make it on the glamorous, exciting scale, but Ellinor ALWAYS makes my life feel more exciting. I love her to pieces. I need to be more grateful that I am home with her to experience her life. I don't have to miss out on any of it. How lucky am I?!
As I sit here typing she has reached the refrigerator door and filled a toy cup to overflowing with water. I should go clean her up. But she is LOVING that she got the water all by herself. I will let her have a few more minutes of triumph before locking the water dispenser. :)
That's when Sleeping Beauty rescued me. After hanging up with Bryan Ellinor bade me follow her to her room. I dutifully tagged along and she promptly dumped out her dress up trunk, patted the ground for me to sit by her, and began excitedly showing me every item that was in the upended trunk. She was thrilled to be playing with these dress up accessories for the 90th time - no boredom present in her beautiful face. We proceeded to dress up all of her Clifford and Friends stuffed animals, which she thought was the funniest thing in the world. Then I helped her into her outfit of choice - the Sleeping Beauty top, Cinderella skirt, earrings and church shoes. Ellinor pranced in front of her mirror, hugged and lined up her stuffed animal friends and had a great time frolicking in her room; never forgetting to turn around and include her mamma in the fun.
I was struck by how much fun I was having watching Ellinor enjoy herself so. I love seeing her happy and listening to her laugh. Taking pictures of her adorable faces and videoing the funny way she talks these days. How could I possibly have thought we'd have the most boring day in the world? How can a day be boring with an almost 2 year old? Sure - dishes, cleaning, the lunch routine, diaper changing - some of my daily activities may not make it on the glamorous, exciting scale, but Ellinor ALWAYS makes my life feel more exciting. I love her to pieces. I need to be more grateful that I am home with her to experience her life. I don't have to miss out on any of it. How lucky am I?!
As I sit here typing she has reached the refrigerator door and filled a toy cup to overflowing with water. I should go clean her up. But she is LOVING that she got the water all by herself. I will let her have a few more minutes of triumph before locking the water dispenser. :)
Wednesday, January 2, 2013
Anniversaries and Resolutions
I posted all about it on Facebook, but I need to make an entry about it as well. Bryan and I celebrated our 5th wedding anniversary last Saturday! 5 years! Wow! Some days I cannot believe 5 years have already gone by and some days it seems a little more fitting. ;) I'm so thrilled to say that I am happier today than I thought possible. Bry and I were married 2.5 months after meeting on a blind date - it was a whirlwind time. I'm sure it appears crazy that we married so quickly - even we look back on that time and laugh at how little of each other we really knew. The important stuff was known though and I knew that Heavenly Father sent this man to me - so we took a leap of faith and married for time and eternity. I haven't regretted it one bit. I love this man more than I can say and I am grateful to know that he is mine forever.
This year's anniversary day was pretty low-key. Life was just settling down after the Christmas holiday and I've been battling a pretty gross cold for the last week. We exchanged cards in bed right after waking up. Bry popped out of bed all of the sudden and came back with the best surprise - my engagement ring!! Just a week earlier I had gone to my jewelry case to put my rings on and found them missing! I freaked out and did a complete, frantic house search that day. It was nowhere and Bry swore he hadn't seen it. I even made him dig through the trash bins (both inside and outside the house) just in case. Needless to say I had been sad all week thinking I wouldn't ever see my wedding rings again. Turns out this sly guy had taken them into the jeweler for my anniversary surprise. He had the original engagement ring replated, bought me a new diamond wedding band, and then had the 2 rings joined together. I WAS SHOCKED and so RELIEVED to open that little white box and see them. They look just BEAUTIFUL! I quickly forgave him for scaring me so - shiny things have a way of making that happen. ;)
My anniversary gift to Bry was his .22 rifle - seeing as how I know little about the characteristics of gun brands and such, he had to pick out his own gift. LOL. I think he ended up with one that makes him pretty happy though. We went to lunch at PF Changs (a tradition each year as we both ate there for the first time during our honeymoon in Seattle), did some shopping together and just enjoyed each other's company. It was nice to have a few hours of uninterrupted time, knowing that Ellinor was safe at home with Aunt Becca. We love Aunt Becca and appreciate her willingness to babysit for us - she is the best! The rest of the evening was spent relaxing at home with our beautiful daughter and just enjoying our little family. Bryan and I really do feel blessed - our lives are tremendous. We absolutely love each other, we adore Ellinor and are thrilled to be welcoming Evelyn soon. 5 years of marriage has treated us quite well!
As for 2013, I was thinking about New Year's Resolutions, and there are just a few things I'd like to work on. Some of them I started already in 2012 and I want to make sure I don't lose sight of them.
- Continue to read my scriptures each day
- Read more good books. I'm starting with "A. Lincoln" - quite the lengthy biography on the president
- Spend the next few months doing more quality activities with Ellinor. Enjoy our time together with just her before another sibling joins the fray. :)
- Try to cook more for my family - and healthier meals. I'm not crazy cool enough to make my own bread every day or rid our kitchen of all processed foods. But I will try harder to incorporate more real food into our diets.
- Have more fun!!!!
- Remember to be grateful EVERY DAY
That's about it for now. Don't get me wrong - I have a million things I need to work on and do better. But that would be a ridiculous feat to document all those. Haha.
Christmas 2012
Wow - Christmas flew by!! I still cannot believe it's over and time to put all the decorations away. Between having all the family in town and then getting sick right after the holiday I have been procrastinating many things - like blogging, putting away the Christmas tree, going anywhere in general. It's time to get things rolling again. So, here is a quick post about our Christmas 2012!
Let's just say it was wonderful! All of my family came into town (immediate family) and camped at my house for a few days. It was a bit of crazy chaos going from 3 people to 12 people every day but I loved every second of it. Ellinor was basically in heaven - numerous people enamored with her and open to obeying her every command. She never ran out of entertainment or play mates for the week. And everyone thought she was just amazing - heaven, I tell you. ;)
Basically the bodies fell where we could find room at night for sleeping and we somehow managed to cook some fabulous meals in my little kitchen. Thank you mom and dad for your culinary skills! They are amazing. Jeff also cooked a mean breakfast Christmas morning, so a shout out to him. I can tell you that having other people here to help cook some great food was Christmas enough for me. As per tradition, holidays and family gatherings revolve around the food and this year was no let down. We had so many goodies left over after the holiday that we have had to hide them and put Ellinor on a bit of a sugar fast. I have to admit, Bry and I let her have plenty of freedom when it came to treats over Christmas. We figured it only happens once a year, so it couldn't hurt too bad to just let her have some fun. Now I am trying to get her back on a normal eating schedule period - such a stinker she is! LoL.
There as plenty of game playing (Apples to Apples, and Xbox after Christmas morning - but poker took the cake) to be had, hanging out watching whatever football game or random show was turned on, and tramping through the snow. This year we had a nice white Christmas - and then the snow just didn't seem to want to stop. But, it was fun for Seth and Caleb to get some sledding time. Ellinor LOVES playing outside in all weather. She looks pretty darn cute in her snow gear too. I ventured out for a bit on the first day of snow play, but then enjoyed my nice warm home after that. ;)
We enjoyed our traditional Christmas Eve Shepherd's dinner - we basically picnic on the floor eating a meal that could have been had by the shepherd's that Christmas Eve night (with a few modern additions thrown in like salad dressing and sparkling cider). After we eat we read the Christmas story in Luke and try to ponder a bit on the true meaning of this beautiful holiday. This year Mom also sang 'Oh Holy Night' for us - have I mentioned she is amazing?! I teared up a bit - nothing like a stunning voice and Christmas hymn to bring on the spirit. Plus, I just missing hearing my mom sing since no longer living at home.
Christmas morning was fun! We were all up by about 7:30am and hung out for a bit while Jeff, some some assistance from Bryan, whipped up a great breakfast. We enjoyed the feast and then gathered downstairs in the formal room to watch Ellinor discover her Santa present - a kitchen! Let me just say it was the biggest hit ever. Good job Santa! ;) But she was then so preoccupied with playing chef that she literally refused her other presents. Did not want to open them or acknowledge them in any way. After about 35 minutes or so she finally came around and we could coax her into opening them. Such a funny girl. She made out like a bandit this year!
We spent Christmas day enjoying each other's company, playing with our new gifts, and preparing the big feast. It was lovely! I am so sad to see it go for another year, but I am overwhelmingly grateful to have my beautiful family. It was incredible spending time with all of them - including our new addition, Becca's fiance Nick. I was thrilled Andrew and Jeff could make it up from Vegas and Dad was able to spend more than 1 day in town. :) MISSING THEM ALL so much already.
Let's just say it was wonderful! All of my family came into town (immediate family) and camped at my house for a few days. It was a bit of crazy chaos going from 3 people to 12 people every day but I loved every second of it. Ellinor was basically in heaven - numerous people enamored with her and open to obeying her every command. She never ran out of entertainment or play mates for the week. And everyone thought she was just amazing - heaven, I tell you. ;)
Basically the bodies fell where we could find room at night for sleeping and we somehow managed to cook some fabulous meals in my little kitchen. Thank you mom and dad for your culinary skills! They are amazing. Jeff also cooked a mean breakfast Christmas morning, so a shout out to him. I can tell you that having other people here to help cook some great food was Christmas enough for me. As per tradition, holidays and family gatherings revolve around the food and this year was no let down. We had so many goodies left over after the holiday that we have had to hide them and put Ellinor on a bit of a sugar fast. I have to admit, Bry and I let her have plenty of freedom when it came to treats over Christmas. We figured it only happens once a year, so it couldn't hurt too bad to just let her have some fun. Now I am trying to get her back on a normal eating schedule period - such a stinker she is! LoL.
There as plenty of game playing (Apples to Apples, and Xbox after Christmas morning - but poker took the cake) to be had, hanging out watching whatever football game or random show was turned on, and tramping through the snow. This year we had a nice white Christmas - and then the snow just didn't seem to want to stop. But, it was fun for Seth and Caleb to get some sledding time. Ellinor LOVES playing outside in all weather. She looks pretty darn cute in her snow gear too. I ventured out for a bit on the first day of snow play, but then enjoyed my nice warm home after that. ;)
We enjoyed our traditional Christmas Eve Shepherd's dinner - we basically picnic on the floor eating a meal that could have been had by the shepherd's that Christmas Eve night (with a few modern additions thrown in like salad dressing and sparkling cider). After we eat we read the Christmas story in Luke and try to ponder a bit on the true meaning of this beautiful holiday. This year Mom also sang 'Oh Holy Night' for us - have I mentioned she is amazing?! I teared up a bit - nothing like a stunning voice and Christmas hymn to bring on the spirit. Plus, I just missing hearing my mom sing since no longer living at home.
Christmas morning was fun! We were all up by about 7:30am and hung out for a bit while Jeff, some some assistance from Bryan, whipped up a great breakfast. We enjoyed the feast and then gathered downstairs in the formal room to watch Ellinor discover her Santa present - a kitchen! Let me just say it was the biggest hit ever. Good job Santa! ;) But she was then so preoccupied with playing chef that she literally refused her other presents. Did not want to open them or acknowledge them in any way. After about 35 minutes or so she finally came around and we could coax her into opening them. Such a funny girl. She made out like a bandit this year!
We spent Christmas day enjoying each other's company, playing with our new gifts, and preparing the big feast. It was lovely! I am so sad to see it go for another year, but I am overwhelmingly grateful to have my beautiful family. It was incredible spending time with all of them - including our new addition, Becca's fiance Nick. I was thrilled Andrew and Jeff could make it up from Vegas and Dad was able to spend more than 1 day in town. :) MISSING THEM ALL so much already.
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| Lights at Temple Square |
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| Surrounded by presents but only had eyes for her kitchen |
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| Waking Up Christmas Morning |
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| Quality time with Uncle Andrew's dogs |
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| Seeing her kitchen for the first time |
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| Poker on Christmas Eve - yep, that's how we do it :) |
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| Shepherds Dinner |
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| Trying to sneak presents early |
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| Girl time! |
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| Love all these boys |
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| Merry Christmas! |
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