Live a Charmed Life

11 (Again!)

2012-02-09T06:30:00.000-06:00

So, I think I've been tagged a total of FOUR times to do this. I already did a post over this once (you can read it HERE) But, Chloe tagged me recently and I liked her questions so I'm answering hers in another 11 post.

(one) If you had to perform one of the following, which would you choose: running a marathon, having braces (again!) for a month, or not watching any TV for a year?

Running a marathon. I can't do that now but I guess if I had too...I could train first. But, I'm not athletic AT ALL!

(two) If you could only choose three foods to eat for the rest of your life, what would they be?

cucumbers, pasta, sweet tarts

(three) Do you have a bucket list? If so, what are some things on your list?

I don't really have a bucket list. I make list every season or so of things I want to accomplish. I never get there but I try. You can read my current list HERE. Already not going so well...

(four) What is the best book you have ever read? (The Bible doesn't count!)

Jane Eyre

(five) What is your least favorite word and why?

cuss words...they're too harsh. And, ugly. I don't like them.

(six) Would you rather be Miss America or an Olympic athlete? If the former, what would be your talent? If the latter, what would be your sport?

Olympian but I have no idea in what sport. I've never really thought about nor am I athletic...in the slightest.

(seven) Tell the world why your favorite vacation spot far exceeds any other in the world.

Lisbon, Portugal - amazing old world charm. Simply beautiful!

(eight) Do you play a musical instrument? If yes, which one? If no, do you wish you did?

ehh...can't even read music!

(nine) What item in your closet costs the most?

my new purse I mentioned HERE

(ten) You've been called as a missionary to Africa, and on your first day there, there is a lion lurking off in the not-so-far-distance. You turn to the person nearest you and say....

Holy S***

(eleven) What is your biggest pet peeve about Facebook?

How often they change it. It was just fine the way it was last year. And the year before that. And, the year before that.

And just because!

Lyndsey, aren't Liam and Georgia so meant to be? I found this picture on my phone from a few weeks ago and it reminded me of the one of Liam you posted the other day! Too funny.

Book Exchange!

2012-02-08T08:30:00.000-06:00

Mallorie sent me a request for a children's book exchange!

But

I need 6 people to participate with me.

(It only requires you buy one book. I did mine on Amazon so that it could be shipped)

If you would like to participate please email me

Emily.Powell@ymail.com

and I will send you all the info!

(I just sent my book and I'm really excited about it! It's REALLY cute!)

A rant!

2012-02-07T07:00:00.000-06:00

I've written before about the fact that I have hypothyroidism. It's a condition in which the thyroid gland does not make enough thyroid hormone. People who have hypothyroidism may also be anemic (check) and have elevated cholesterol (double check). In addition, other complications could be heart disease or failure, increased risk of infection, infertility, miscarriage, and giving birth to a baby with birth defects.

Lovely...

At first I didn't think it was really a big deal. I still don't think it's that big of a deal but it is a huge annoyance and pain in the butt! I have to go get blood work-go to the doctor-and get blood work done again at the dr's appointment every three months. So, every three months I have to visit the dr. and give blood twice. I hate it. No, actually I LOATH it. Especially with my history of passing out. It's always a constant worry. And, I'll have to do that pretty much the rest of my life!

And, I have to take my hormone replacement pill every morning (FOR THE REST OF MY LIFE!) one hour before I eat. So, I usually roll out of bed (because I have to take it with a full glass of water), take the pill, crawl back in bed for another hour, try to fall back asleep but I never can, then get up and eat breakfast.

I know other people have it way worse but I wish it was different. I wish I wasn't so tired all the time. I wish I didn't have to go to the doctor all the time and pay for so many appointments. I wish I didn't have to take that stupid tiny pill every morning and go to CVS to pick it up and pay for it every month. I wish the decision to quit breastfeeding could have been totally my own and not been made by a stupid thyroid condition. The only way to 100% successfully breastfeed with hypothyroidism is if your levels remain on track. I gave birth nearly 9 months ago and and every time I go in for blood work my levels have changed and they have had to change my hormone dosage at every appointment. My doctor said this typically levels out after a year. They've raised the dosage, then lowered it, then lowered it some more, then raised it again, and raised it again. It makes no sense. Ugh...I wish I didn't have to have neck ultrasounds to make sure I don't have enlarged glands or tumors. I wish I hadn't lost so much weight that the "air bag off" symbol didn't come on whenever I ride in the passenger seat.

It's all really annoying.

Blah.

Rant. Over.

Monday Randoms

2012-02-06T06:00:00.000-06:00

Miscellany Monday

{Link Up HERE!}

1. Jonathan told me to go shopping for my own Valentine's day gift. Ha! We don't do to well with surprises at our house. Anyway, I bought the new Poppy Leather Whipstitch Glam Tote by Coach. I've been wanting a new "mom bag" for awhile (I'm not a fan of diaper bags) and have been looking for months. I wanted a large bag and originally wanted a Louis Vuitton Cabas Mezzo BUT it would cost nearly 2,000$ and I don't think J would have been pleased with that bill : / We'll revisit that in a few years...

I also bought a new wallet and a new makeup bag. Went over the budget J gave me...slightly.

2. We may have splurged a bit on Valentine's day because Jonathan got a $$$ a month raise! He is the English department chair. He works so hard and has like a million stipends...not exaggerating!

3. I love Georgia in her church clothes.

4. I REALLY must baby proof the cabinets! AHH!

And, teach her to not climb while I'm at it!!!

5. Valentine's Day projects. I'll reveal the finished products on Valentine's day. The cards I made for her are just SO cute!

6. I got my first mom injury. A nearly busted lip! Georgia's head hit my lip while Jonathan was trying to hand her off to me. It isn't swollen anymore but it did leave a tiny little blood blister. Ouch. It's top lip just left of the center. It looks like a little red freckle.

7. Georgia's top two teeth crack me up. She has the BIGGEST gap. This is the best picture I could get of the huge space! ha! Pardon, the food crusted all over her face. Yep, we'll be spending some money on braces!

8. The view from our backyard before a big storm one morning. Half my house was in sunshine and the other half was under dark storm clouds...literally. It was the strangest thing. I also love that our house backs up to nothing. I love this view.

Loving It!

2012-02-01T07:30:00.001-06:00

Linking up with W.I.L.W

Here is a good DATE NIGHT or FAMILY NIGHT idea!

On Monday Jonathan and I changed our date night to a family night out of necessity. I was in charge of planning for January and planned a Barnes and Noble date that I found on Pinterest but I can't find the link for who originally posted this. If you know, please leave a comment so I can give them the credit.

I printed out one of these sheets for me and one for Jonathan. We rotated with who was pushing G's stroller in each set and had about 10 minutes per set and then met up at a bench to see what we found. It was really fun and Georgia had a great time too. The family time was really nice.

Yeah, I'm that mom...

Our loot and our finds!

Monday family fun night

Not me...

2012-01-31T11:54:00.001-06:00

I am for sure not the kind of mother who finds her daughter licking butter off of wax paper thrown into the paper recycling bin. Nope, not me...no way. And, I'm for sure not the kind of mother who lets her child play with the knocked over recycling bin and dig around in old cardboard.

Who would leave their fridge door open on purpose to let their baby play and climb into it. I would NEVER do that.

Only a crazy mom would let/watch their 8 month old climb unassisted onto the coffee table and then not make it in time as they slowly fall off. Wow...that would make me a terrible mom.

I'm also not the kind of mom who has turned into a germ freak this past week since her daughter was sick and took her to the McDonald's play place just to wipe down every object she even thought about touching with paci wipes first. Only an insane parent does that...right?

I would NEVER let my baby cry it out in the morning because she woke up too early crying not once but twice thinking it was teething only to find out later she had a fever from a remaining ear infection not yet healed. What kind of mom does that. NOT ME!

I'm the kind of mom who strictly enforces an all organic diet. That's why I would never let my baby eat Doritos, powder sugar donuts, chili cheese fries, french toast, McDonald's french fries, and a cinnamon roll in one weekend. Talk about a terribly unbalanced diet and bad parenting.

Also, I'm not a "hover-er". I'm not the type who goes into their babies nursery every night to watch their baby sleep for a few minutes before they get in bed just because they're so cute. Nope...I never do that. I don't do that every. single. night.

;)

So, what kind of parent are you not?

Winner, Winner!

2012-01-30T20:58:00.000-06:00

The Scentsy giveaway winner is

Leigh Anne!

CONGRATS!

{The Crofton Party is still open HERE if anyone would like to order!}

Monday

2012-01-30T06:00:00.000-06:00

Linking up HERE!

1. My weekend in a photo collage from my phone.

-My MIL's birthday

-playing in her carseat BECAUSE

-tire blowout

-15$ play kitchen I can't wait to revamp!

-walking Perry by attaching him to the stroller

-LOVE the attachable spoon. Came in handy while trying to feed Georgia in the grocery store!

2. Learning about sunflair! This was my first attempt!

3. Playing in the RAIN for the 1st time. Precious!

4. The wonder of a curtain blowing in the wind on a cool breezy day.

Happy Monday

Project 52

2012-01-26T07:00:00.000-06:00

Project 52

-23-

Resolution
"You must live in the present, launch yourself on every wave, find your eternity in each moment."
-Henry David Thoreau

-24-
Wintery
"A house is not a home unless it contains food and fire for the mind as well as the body."
-Benjamin Franklin

-25-
Black and White
"We will open the book. It's pages are blank. We are going to put words on them ourselves. The book is called Opportunity and it's first chapter is New Year's Day."
-Edith Lovejoy Pierce

Party Planning

2012-01-25T06:00:00.000-06:00

Linking up with

.........

-What I Love Wednesday-

and

-Oh so Pinteresting-

My little girl will be ONE in May and I've already started planning her first birthday party.

Since her name is Georgia I will be going with a "Georgia Peach" theme. I'm even asking the guests to wear their perfect peach colored attire (if they so wish). I have my outfit already and Georgia's but we're still on the hunt for Jonathan's

Here are a few ideas I'm been saving from Pinterest.

{Want to follow me? I'm "Emily Dupuis Powell"}

Smash cake session!

Photobooth idea

Sidewalk chalk as party favors???

Peach flavored Izze

Cake stand idea...

Pretty peach colored cake

Another smash cake session idea? Or, how she'll eat her cake at her party.

General decor inspiration

Another photobooth idea. So funny!

Children's book doubles as a guest book. I'm trying to find a book with "Peach" in the title.

Any other party planning tips? Any moms have advice for making the first birthday party super special???

Don't forget to enter my Scentsy giveaway HERE!

{Open until Friday!}

Monday!

2012-01-23T06:00:00.000-06:00

Linking up with Carissa HERE for Miscellany Monday

1. Enter my SCENTSY GIVEAWAY right now (HERE!) It's open until Friday

2. I had a "me" weekend and it was nice. Jonathan took Georgia most of the weekend because there were a lot of things I needed to get done. She still isn't acting like herself. She gets fussy very quickly and wants to be held/entertained a lot which is so NOT like her. I'm not sure if it's remaining sinus pressure from her previous infections (which I am STILL battling myself despite a prescription and I'm pretty sure we had the same thing), or if it's that last pesky tooth (I can see it) that still has not popped through of her 6 she cut at the same time OR if she may be getting her one year molars just a bit early. Ugh...who knows but I want my happy baby back. I mean, she is happy but just not nearly as much as she normally is. Prayers would be appreciated :(

3. Camera phone dump!

-Love Big Lots!-

-She now likes to hold things in her mouth and she is wearing pink Converse!-

-Visiting dad at work and wearing a summer bubble because it's 80 degrees in January-

-Doing my chores-

4. I've been trying to come up with activities to do with Georgia lately. We BOTH are getting cabin fever really badly. We go to the play place at McDonalds, we hang out in the children's section at the library, we go on walks and play at the park. We go shopping and window shopping. I give her empty water bottles to crunch and crush and ones filled with macaroni noodles Then, we did the edible paint and she really enjoyed that. I had a fail the other day. Splat mat + cool whip DID NOT = fun in Georgia's opinion. Who would have thought? She slipped and slid and clawed her way into my lap and cried. Good job mom. So, all of that to say what are other fun things to do with an 8 month old?

5. We're practicing standing at our house. I took Georgia to visit her dad at work on friday and this was the first time I've been able to capture her skills on camera. Pardon the food caked all over her face. Clearly she was eating at the time.

Giveaway!

2012-01-20T15:55:00.001-06:00

-Giveaway now closed-

Get me to 500!

When I hit 500 followers I'm doing a giveaway!

(Maybe I'll do another giveaway when I get to 600!)

The loot!

Scentsy plug in warmer and one scent! Both are favorites of mine and currently in my master bath!

Tea Rose

Black Raspberry Vanilla

To enter: (you must follow my blog already)

(or) One entry: New follower (leave a comment to let me know)

One entry: Visit my Scentsy website and leave a comment telling me what your favorite warmer is

One entry: Buy something from my current "Crofton" party and leave me a comment to let me know!

- FYI -

My Scentsy shop is always open on my right sidebar. You can order whenever you want and can get it shipped directly to YOU!

- Contest closes Friday the 27th @ 4:00 central -

Goals

2012-01-20T09:30:00.000-06:00

I have come up with a new set of goals. It really helps me to write these down so that I stay accountable to myself. These will also act as my "resolution" for the New Year.

Goals for 2012:

Be able to make Georgia's birthday cake (On a professional level)

Get my painting business up and running (This is something I really want to do for myself)

Create a new 2012 budget for our family (We waste too much money. Time to reassess.)

Open Georgia's college fund (I'm REALLY late on this one...she literally has a pink piggy bank for now!)

Decide if I want to take on more "sponsors" for my blog (Does this interest anyone?)

Get our house market ready (We may be ready to sell as early as late April)

Focus on being "present" as I wrote about here

Dive back into our family binder and get my life organized again!

Have a healthy eating/living lifestyle. Gain muscle mass.

Finish reading the Old Testament.

Tag! You're it!

2012-01-19T08:05:00.000-06:00

Rachel and Amanda tagged me so, here I go!

Here is the break down:
1. Post these rules
2. Post 11 random things about yourself
3. Answer the questions set for you in their post
4. Create 11 new questions for the people you tag to answer
5. Go to their blog and tell them they are "tagged"
6. Tag 11 people

11 Random things about me:
1. I'm pretty particular about how my nails look. Usually I keep my finger nails short, no polish, and buffed. I don't put polish on them because I teach art and there is really no point. I always have polish on my toes and it's never chipped or cracked. I do them myself and I really enjoy it.
2. I spray Febreeze on everything! Everyday! That's why I make my own.
3. I still think about baby names all the time even though I just had a baby. I really like Merritt (an artist I like) and Milam (Texas war hero. Pronounced my-lum) for boys. No mom, I don't want another baby soon...just like the names.
4. For girls I like Clio but Jonathan pretty much hates it. Oh well...
5. I also think about how to do baby number 2's monthly pictures...mainly because of Pinterest. Sigh...
6. This is really hard and I've been working on this for like 2 hours. ha!
7. My husband and I are obsessed with Dexter. I'll use obsessed lightly because we are watching every episode on DVD and we're on season two. My husband loves it but the jury is still out with me...I think it's kind of strange.
8. I've probably said this before but I could eat cucumbers in Italian dressing every day and never get sick of them. YUMMY!
9. We recently cancelled our cable. I think we are even more addicted to our TV than before. We stream Netflix or watch all our regular shows online and I feel like we're always watching SOMETHING!
10. I started watching One Tree Hill on Netflix. It's so embarrassing and the show is pretty crappy but I can't stop watching. Ahh!
11. I require a lot of sleep. I am ALWAYS sleepy! I get a lot of sleep but the whole thyroid disease thing makes me sleepy.

My 11 answers:
1. My go to dinner menu: Well, I don't cook. But, in a crunch Jonathan can whip up turkey burgers and sweet potato fries pretty quickly.
2. Biggest pet peeve: hmm...whistling or humming or tapping. Things like that.
3. If I had to change my name it would be: I guess what my name almost was. My mom almost named me Sarah but I really like my name.
4. The first thing I do in the morning: I take my thyroid pill
5. The last thing I do before I go to bed at night: Say, "Goodnight. I love you."
6. My shopping weakness: Meaningless "stuff" in the dollar section at Target
7. How many kids do I want to have: 3
8. Favorite thing in my house: I have a lot of favorite things. I love the white iron bed in our guest room. It was my first big girl bed.
9. How do I sleep: On my side with a pillow between my knees...pregnancy style
10. Favorite take out: We don't really do take out. My mom brings over pizza sometimes.
11. Currently reading: Old Testament

And my other 11:
1. What’s your go-to snack? Cereal
2. What is the first thing you do when you get home from work/school? Talk to Georgia
3. What is a guilty please of yours? Ice cream sundaes.
4. How many serious boyfriends did it take to get to Mr. Right? Just one.
5. If you could pick a different state to live in, what would it be? California. I live in TX now.
6. What is one type of show you hate watching on TV? Not a fan of reality TV.
7. What time do you get up in the mornings? 6:30. That's when J leaves the house.
8. Would you rather hot weather or cold? Temperate :)
9. What is the most recent movie you’ve watched? Contagion
10. What is your typical weekend made up of? Relaxing. Playing with Georgia. Hanging out as a family.
11. Do you make your bed/tidy up every day? I clean all the time. I rarely make our bed. I love to lounge in it all day and so does Georgia.

My 11 questions:
1. What is your guilty pleasure TV show?
2. Name one song that you love to jam out to that is totally embarrassing?
3. Where do you want to send your kids to school? Public/private/home school?
4. One food you will never grow tired of?
5. What is your favorite Pinterest search?
6. Did you order your girl scout cookies? If so, what kind?
7. What color do you decorate with most?
8. Which store is a total guilty pleasure?
9. What are your favorite baby names?
10. What is your "dream home" vision?
11. Is your current job your dream job?

And, I tag:
(trying not to tag people who I already know have been tagged)
1. Cecilly
2. Danielle
3. Kelly
4. Rachel
5. Laura
6. Miranda
7. Kim
8. Nicki
9. Amber
10. Jenny
11. Bri

WILW

2012-01-18T06:00:00.000-06:00

Here is what I am loving on this Wednesday!
{Link up with Jamie!)

1. This face!

2. And, this face!

3. My toe nails. I painted them in 5 shades of pink darkest to lightest :)

4. Today is my Monday and Friday at work. We had MLK day off and since I only work Mondays and Wednesdays this is my first work day of the week and my last. And, I'm paid salary not hourly so it's even better!

5. AND my huge stack of paint cards I took from Wal*Mart the other day. They are just dying to be turned into something inspired by Pinterest. I have plans on collecting more. I haven't even been to Home Depot or Lowes.

Here is what I'm thinking...

HERE

Happy Wednesday everyone!

Georgia - 8 Months

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

Sweet Girl,

You are EIGHT MONTHS old! WOW!

You are SUCH a little joy!

I don't know any stats but you're around 20 pounds which I know because of our minor emergency visit recently.

New Tricks:

You LOVE to climb

Speed crawling
These aren't new but you sometimes wave and are learning to clap

Eating:

You have three meals a day and one snack. You eat anything we put in front of you and you'll try anything we have on our plates. You started meats this month. I refuse to make your meat baby food so you get Gerber. It just grosses me out! You are all about finger foods and love to feed yourself. Your fine motor skills are really developing! You love strawberries and most fruit and can't think of anything that you don't like. I LOVE this about you.

You have 4 bottles a day. Usually 7.5 oz, 9oz, 9oz, 6oz, and then we top you off before bed...typically just a few ounces.

Sleeping:

Last month you were sleeping amazingly...then, you got sick. So, your over 12 hour average is now back down to 11. But, that is still great...you just spoiled me last month. We're still trying to get back into the swing of things after your upper respiratory infection.

You take 2 naps a day. A morning nap and an afternoon nap. Both are typically 1-1.5 hours but again we're still getting the hang of things post sickness. You have been waking up too early hysterically crying some days so we're working on getting back to our "normal". You're getting there though.

Sounds:

You say ma-ma, da-da, uh-oh, and sounds that range all over the alphabet but you don't attach any meaning to your words. You understand "bite" and open your mouth for the spoon when I say it and you often repeat things I say in your own way...usually is sounds nothing like what I've said but will have the correct number of syllables.

Likes:

When dad comes home from work

climbing

eating

Dislikes:

Having your face cleaned after a meal

not getting your way

Comments:

I got so many nice/funny comments about you this month so I knew I had to record them some way so I could remember them.

-"That must be an angel that you're holding"

-"Blonde hair and blue eyes! She's going to be a heart breaker. You need to home school that one!"

-"She looks like a Cabbage Patch baby come to life!"

-"She is so smart and so strong!"

Georgia,

I love you sweet P. You are absolutely brilliant and give me a run for my money every single day. Nobody could tell me that you're not the brightest, prettiest, most wonderful child that has ever lived. I can't wait to see where your life takes you!

I LOVE YOU!

Click HERE to see all Georgia's photo updates!

Baby School 101 - A Guest Post

2012-01-13T10:25:00.001-06:00

I recently asked my friend Cecilly a few questions about baby's learning/development and what to look for when you want to start sending your baby to Mother's Day Out. (I plan on sending Georgia in the fall to the one year old class 2 days a week) I also asked her what were some good things to do at home with babies to keep them learning and engaged. I figured a lot of blogger moms would want to know/would have the same questions so, she gave me the go ahead to post her answers on my blog for all to read.

{Here she is holding Georgia at the hospital. She was actually the first one to hold her other than Jonathan or I!}

Cecilly is the Lead Infant Teacher at her school as well as the Infant/Young Toddler Team Leader. She has a BSFCS (bachelor of science in family and consumer science) in Child Development and Family Studies from Baylor University. We went to High School together. Were on the dance team together. AND, we went to college together. She was in my wedding and I was her matron of honor, so I trust her opinion on the matter.

Here is what Cecilly had to say in her email she sent me last night:

It's probably a fact that a Mother's Day Out program will just be daycare. They can't pay their teachers enough for them to be of quality, sorry it's just what it is. That's not to say, though, that some of the teachers will be interested in genuinely caring for G or the other babies. However, they will more than likely be mothers of young children or not educated in the field and older women. Experience makes us who we are, but I firmly believe that people in my field need an education. You have to know what an infants next developmental cues will be in order to provide a successful learning environment, and that is exactly what you are looking for.

Be on the lookout for a NAEYC accredited school, there aren't many in the Houston area, it's a coveted title (which my school possesses). If the school isn't NAEYC accredited then look for a SACS accreditation. This will ensure you the center is above minimum licensing standards; minimum being the key word. In a minimum standard licensed school an infant class can have around 12 infants starting at 2 months, but my class has a maximum of 7 infants no younger than three months with two teachers, and it's challenging, 12 seems impossible i.e. not quality.

There are day schools and other centers that offer part time classes if that's what you're looking for, not just mother's day out, but they will be more expensive. Just be sure they are accredited in some way to ensure it's not simply a day care. Also, look for a lesson plan. If the classroom teachers have a focus this will mean a productive learning experience. Curriculums differ, but look for a lesson plan written by the specific teacher; that will tell you if she's legit or just there to earn the cash. You really have to have a passion for child development and a nurturing spirit to hang out with infants all day. It's exhausting, but I am so interested in their growth that the money and the challenges are not an issue.

Next, find their mission statement. This will tell you a lot about the program. The program should emphasize play. It should be the key ingredient. Infants and toddlers (as well as children of all ages) need play to learn. This is how they figure things out and how their brains work. I can't suggest any curriculum, but a creative teacher.

The structure can be a bit tricky. They definitely need a schedule, but play in and out of the classroom for children as young as G just needs to be available. They need a feeding and sleeping schedule, but everything else is up to the child.

If the children are not eating then we are on the floor playing, reading, singing, talking, dancing, working on motor skills like grasping, reaching, rolling over, and fine motor skills with various toys and objects, all the things you do with G. A scheduled feeding and sleeping routine is all the structure they need. No weird circle times with books or singing or anything. Books and singing are usually individualized. They can start that circle time stuff the second semester when they're two, they're brains can't comprehend that kind of structure just yet and starting at two years old may not work either.

We do a lot of singing of all kinds of songs to get the atmosphere in the classroom down from chaotic. I've made up several songs for lunch time with picky eaters and they love the songs. They were even saying the main word in one of the songs by the end of the year because I sang it sooo much. Board books that are accessible for the children are crucial. They need to explore books in their own way even if it means eating them. Teachers will have to take initiative and read with G, because she's so young. I'm not sure if she brings you books yet, but other children her age won't. We have play mats with the hanging toys, but we recently retired those to practice different skills. They can all grasp things and bring them to their mouths so we use the same toys that were hanging, but in different ways. The classroom has to evolve with the children as they grow. Just like baby proofing a house to make it more child friendly, we have to adapt the classroom to keep it interesting for the child as well as safe. They do get bored with the toys, so I try to change them out and add a new toy once a week. Something they've never seen. It's all in the lesson plan. Typically when they get bored we move locations, this is when we transition to outside or just go on a buggy ride, today we went to the library and picked out new books, because it was too cold outside.

We've done some cool stuff with the infants, but it's hard with our licensing standards, so things at home are much easier like your edible paint. We could do that at school despite the mess, but I'm really interested in painting with fruits and that requires the children to be a certain age and not allergic to the foods. So, food painting at home could be cool on some construction paper. We do a lot of tempera painting. We've painted bubble wrap and contact paper, wax paper, foil, cardboard, and Christmas ornaments. This month we have some cool sensory things: ooblik (cornstarch and water), and cloud dough. Shaving cream, flour and water. Water, ice, things that smell: lavender (herbs are good sensory experiences.) Small, empty water bottles filled with bells, beads, sequins, colored water, or anything colorful are always a hit and infants love bubbles. Just be sure to glue the lid on so none of the things can come out of the bottle. Buckets are a hit, textured balls, puzzles, sorters, and stacking rings. These are staples in our classroom. All of which can be utilized at home, and activities using all of the senses. There aren't many creative activities out there, but I'm always looking and if I come across any I'll let you know.

Just some random thoughts:

--If you know you want your child to be in a program avoid swings, and bouncers. They can really make it hard on teachers. Every parent should find a way to get their child to sleep and calm without contraptions.

--Also, avoid programs (if possible) without these things. I opted to take the swings, jumperoo, and most of the bouncer seats out of my room for a more intentional experience. I want to be with the children, not put them somewhere and walk away. We have one bouncer we use to feed the young ones solid foods that aren't really good at sitting in the wooden chairs yet.

--Let G experience everything. I know you do a great job of that. Let her see everything and constantly talk to her and explain things. This is relevant and important for everyone with infants and young children.

--Observe the classroom before enrolling G. Watch the teachers and the other staff. Set up a tour of the program. If they don't offer one, don't enroll!

--Look at the licensing website. It will tell you every good and bad thing about the program.http://www.dfps.state.tx.us/Child_Care/Search_Texas_Child_Care/CCLNET/Source/CPA/ppSearchTXChildCare2.aspx search for the school here.

--You'll know when you walk in if you are interested in the program

If you have any questions or if anything is unclear just let me know! :) Hope I was helpful and not overwhelming.

Thank you SO much Cecilly! This gave me A LOT to think about. I loved everything!

One Word for 2012

2012-01-11T18:31:00.000-06:00

{I've seen this done on 2 or 3 blogs and decided to give it a go!}

Pick one word.

Put the word in a very visible place in your home.

Live by this one word everyday.

Document your progress.

My word

- Present -

As in: being present...being in the moment

Don't hold onto anger
...................................
Don't let any sweet Georgia moments pass me by
...................................
Slow down and enjoy

...................................

Turn off the TV and say no to the internet

I was going to find some way to have the word "Present" on the art Georgie made but I just couldn't bring myself to change her first masterpiece so...it's sits in the hallway and I know what it means even if it doesn't have it written on there. Because I mean, what's more "present" than letting your daughter use edible finger paint on the back porch on a sunny day?

Blog Awards

2012-01-10T14:52:00.001-06:00

Catching up on a few bloggy awards...I hadn't forgotten!

Thanks Bren for the award!

Rules:

1. Thank the person who gave you the award

2. Pass it on the 15 people

3. List 7 things about yourself

Passing it onto:

And

Thank you Kristin for another award

{the rules are the same as the other award}

Passing it onto:

(I passed my awards onto fewer people since I'm doing a two for one deal)

And, without further ado...here are FOURTEEN (RANDOM!) things about myself. I know, I am so interesting...ha :)

1. I really LOVE racer back tank tops!

2. I got "dressed" this morning by taking off my PJ's and putting on yoga pants, a tank top, and a cardigan. Is that really considered getting dressed???

3. My neighbor's DUMB dog just woke up Georgia! Why have a dog at all if you just leave it in the back yard 24/7 and let it bark all the time at all hours of the day and night!?!?

4. I have Georgia occupied right now in her high chair with two orange slices. It's the only way I can get things done and she loves oranges. Darn you all who have babies older than Georgia who are not yet mobile! I wish she would be still...FOR REAL!

5. Since I've been sick I've been taking cold meds, two multi vitamins, a vitamin C, B6 for energy, and downing an entire pot of ice tea (I don't drink coffee) a day. Anyway to get through the day...

6. I look at homes for sale online everyday...

7. And, I recently looked up online how to get your home ready to sell. We're going to have a lot to do!

8. My most common Pinterest searches: Play rooms, storage solutions, and birthday party ideas

9. Valentine's Day is coming up and I'm really excited! It's my favorite holiday!

10. I really want to start working out but not to lose weight. I just want to gain muscle mass...I need to look up ways to do that without burning a ton of extra calories because I can't really afford to lose any weight.

11. Whenever G was younger I used to spend all of my time (while she was napping) cleaning the house and trying to get so much done BUT when she would wake up I would be too worn out to play with her. So, I stopped doing that. Now, when she naps I take time for myself and when the hubs gets home I do all my catch up. I like this much better. Then, once she goes to bed we watch TV!

12. I need a new wallet. Like, a mom wallet...that has room for all my coupons and lists. (And, a new makeup bag and a new "mom" purse...blah!)

13. Jonathan says, "let's make each other something for Valentine's day!" Emily says, "bahaha! What are you going to make me?!" Jonathan says, (with feelings clearly hurt) "I can make you something..." So sorry Jonathan. I totally missed that you were trying to be nice :)

14. I want to take some kind of class this summer...like cooking, or baking...or something. We'll see!

Happenings

2012-01-09T07:00:00.000-06:00

Linking up HERE!

Here is whats been happening around here lately...

Georgia is feeling better and eating normally again...although her dad is not a good babysitter.

Friday was a LONG day. I was so sleepy and not feeling good at all! Jonathan had a soccer game so it was just me and my girl all day. Jonathan didn't see G at all on Friday so I tried to make the best of it.

We had a good weekend...aside from me being sick and having so much sinus pressure I felt like my head would explode.

On Saturday we just wanted to lay low and not do much. I made some edible finger paint for Georgia (find the recipe HERE) and let her go to town on the back porch. She had a great time. We also took her for a ride in her wagon...which she is always trying to climb out of!

We ended the day with Mexican food. Georgia loved it of course but I didn't have the flash on my phone's camera so the picture is REALLY dark!

Sunday we went to church but came home early because a) my sinus pressure was horrible and b) I was about to fall asleep during the service from all my sinus meds! ha!

Happy Monday!

12 Things

2012-01-04T14:56:00.000-06:00

12 Random Things for 2012

-12-
Random stuff
I want my next kitchen accent color to be apple green
I already have Georgia's birthday gifts picked out
G is on the up and up. She is starting to eat more!
I want to move. Like, really bad!
I'm currently working on my 2012 goals list
I'm a sucker for yummy smelling bath products
I really need to drink more water
I think I got G sick and now I think she got me re-sick
We cancelled our cable and love it
We now stream Netflix
I want to sew a "pouf" ottoman
I want to start planning our summer vacation

-11-
Things I do every. single. day.
follow Georgie behind her push elephant
brush my teeth at least 4 times
eat my meals too late
read blogs
log onto Facebook
text my parents
text Jonathan
talk to my sister in law (usually)
waste time on Pinterest
read my Bible
watch TV with the hubs

-10-
Most recent purchases I've made
Pink maxi skirt
striped dress (tan/black)
black dress
jeans #1
jeans #2
black maxi dress
Pottery Barn clearance rug
Pottery Barn Sophie doll
dress pants
black shirt

-9-
Future vacation destinations
Boston
Tex-Mex cruise
Italy (Venice and Florence)
Greece
Thailand
Austria
Sweden
Budapest
Morocco

-8-
Currently in my living room
empty toy basket #1
empty toy basket #2
play table
crawling baby
lazy dog
dying laptop
homemade bean bag
Melissa and Doug wooden toy

-7-
If you came to my house the TV would most likely be on
The Office
Dexter
Walking Dead
Private Practice
Grey's Anatomy
Work of Art
Any forensic show or any documentary

-6-
Some of my favorite foods
cucumbers
strawberries
sweet potato fries
broccoli
pasta
bread

-5-

Things I accomplished over Christmas break

Ordering prints for the past 4 months of G's life

Starting our 4th year of marriage photo book
Ordering the PDF file of my 3rd year blogging book
Somewhat organizing all of our Christmas gifts to fit in our home
Getting started in Elements and adding a few actions

-4-
Music I CANNOT stop listening to
Florence + The Machine (Howl, Only if for a Night, and Spectrum)
Amos Lee
Fleetwood Mac
The Office theme song (we play it a lot to watch G dance. See HERE!)

-3-

People who blog that I would want to be friends with in real life

Lyndsey L.

Cait

Mallorie

-2-
Things I can reach from where I am sitting
Sunny D in a yard gnome glass
stack of bills

-1-
A picture that I love

105 Degrees

2012-01-03T11:25:00.000-06:00

Georgia got sick on Friday. I took her temp at 1:00 in the afternoon and it was around 101 I think. No biggie I thought. Surely it's just the fact that she is cutting six teeth. I gave her some Motrin and we were good. So I thought.

4:00 in the morning we are woken up by the sound of throwing up on the baby monitor...uh oh. Talk about giving me a near heart attack! I of course call my mom and she tells me to call the after hours nurse or take her to the Minor Emergency clinic. So, that's what I do. At this point G's temp is 103.2

We are no longer thinking teething and are thinking it may be a stomach virus but honestly have no clue where she would have gotten it. We hadn't taken her anywhere but around family and none of them had any stomach virus symptoms.

So, we give the nurse hotline a call and they tell us these major things:
1) Her temp isn't 103.2 it's 102.2 since it was taken rectally. They told us to subtract 1 degree. All the temps I write here though are exactly what the thermometer says. Not minus 1 degree.
2) Most likely it's a virus. There is nothing you can do but treat it at home.
3) Don't give her Motrin and Tylenol on the same day. It isn't safe.

We continue to treat her at home all day Saturday and the lowest her temp goes is 101.2

Sunday rolls around and we think she is doing better. She's only been waking up briefly at night when her Tylenol wares off and then falls back asleep when she gets more. Her temp all day Sunday hovers around 102. We call the hotline again and they tell us the same things. By this time J and I are sure she doesn't have a stomach virus because she isn't throwing up. We think it's congestion that caused her to throw up because she was gagging. We call the hotline again and they tell us all the same things.

Monday. (Our dr's office is still closed) She isn't feeling better and to me is actually getting worse. When I get home from work I take her temp and it's 103 and some change with Motrin. I call Jonathan and tell him that despite what the hotline tells us we are taking her to the minor emergency because this is not a virus. She is just getting worse and now the Tylenol and Motrin are not working. By the time we get to the clinic her temp is 105 (again, with Motrin) and her eyes were watering so badly it looked like she was crying.

We first see an EMT, followed by a nurse, and then the doctor. The clinic was so quick. We saw someone within minutes and we maybe there total one hour. The EMT, nurse, and doctor all told us individually that everything the clinic told us was wrong.

1) You don't subtract 1 degree when taking a rectal temp
2) How could they tell she had a virus if they had not seen her in person?
3) You can give her Motrin and Tylenol on the same day and AT THE SAME TIME or staggered and the dosage they told us to give at the hotline was too low. We should have been giving her more.

The doctor told us she had an upper respiratory infection and the beginnings of a double ear infection. Not a virus! They gave her Tylenol and Motrin for her high fever and sent us home with a prescription for amoxicillin. We were so angry. Had we known she didn't have a virus sooner we could have treated it sooner and I doubt she would have developed an ear infection in addition to the respiratory infection.

Needless to say, we were LIVID. We were absolutely furious the hotline had given us such terrible advice and let our baby just get sicker and sicker. I'm pretty sure I'll be filing a complaint with the after hours hotline company. We're just lucky that I had enough of them and had the good sense to take her in despite what they told me.

Here she is after her Motrin, Tylenol, and Amoxicillin. Just as happy as she can be! This was last night...about 2 hours before this her temp was 105.

Here she is this morning. Still sleeping a lot but feeling much better.

Monday Lovin'

2012-01-01T22:03:00.000-06:00

Miscellany Monday

{Link up HERE}

I'm posting a day early...oh well :)

Look at the bean bag I made Georgia for Christmas. Isn't it so cute?! She loves it. I found a tutorial on Pinterest but I didn't end up really using it because I had never used a pattern before.

Our NYE ended up being super low key because we had/have a sick baby (sinus infection?) but Jonathan and I decided to make the best of it. We got dressed up to take pictures and ended up toasting way before midnight in our PJ's. We both kissed Georgia at midnight because I was rocking her back to sleep. She woke up because our neighbors we firing fire crackers in front of our house and because she had a fever. Ugh...this is the first time she has had a fever and nobody at our house is dealing with it very well : / Oh, and did I mention she is cutting SIX teeth! Yes, my 7 month old has EIGHT teeth! Oh my!

Baylor WON the Alamo Bowl game! Sic'em!!! Jonathan and I drove to San Antonio in the afternoon, the game started at 8, and we drove back that night. It was a LOOOONG day but well worth it to see my bears win.

Here we are on the Riverwalk before we headed to the game. My mom watched Georgie.

Georgia has started dancing! We watch The Office everyday on Netflix and she now knows and LOVES the theme song. Watch her get down with her cute self! (She does this EVERY TIME the songs comes on!)

I'm obsessed with using actions in Photoshop (Elements 10)! Does anyone know any good sites to get them for free. I already have a few from PW that I love and I've pinned a few as well.

I need a hair cut. It's bad. Like, really bad and I'm not even going to tell you how long it's been since I've had it cut. Let's just say it was sometime before G was born...yikes!

Happy Monday folks!

Present Parade

2011-12-30T09:00:00.000-06:00

My favorite gifts:

Photoshop Elements 10

Baking supplies

CASH!

Tons of gift cards

Lots of shoes

Sew box filled with supplies

Mary Poppins!

Super fun stocking stuffers :)

A place setting of Fiesta AND

some Stella & Dot goodies!

Here are just some of my stash

Jonathan's best gifts:

Jonathan had a super preppy Christmas. I gave him a Columbia jacket, Sperry's, a canvas duffle bag, an oxford, two t-shirts. He loved it all though and looks super cute in his new attire.

He also got some Polos and a ton of boy gun stuff...whatev.

Georgie's main gifts:

I made her a bean bag! It's so cute if I do say so myself. She loves it.

J's parents gave her a Fisher price play table.

My mom and step dad gave her a pink John Deere wagon and some college fund money!

She got a lot of clothes, PJ's, plastic plates, stuffed animals, and dolls. She got a few V-Tech things and some other fun things.

We had a lot of fun!

Christmas Wrap Up

2011-12-29T09:30:00.000-06:00

Here are a few of our Christmas traditions / activities.

We always make a ginger bread house

I always get a photo ornament for our family photo. This is our fourth Christmas so it's our fourth ornament so it's really fun to look at how our family has changed over the years.

We also do a travel ornament from our vacation each year. Well, I forgot to get one this year so I just bought another photo ornament to take it's place. But, I ended up really liking it because it was G's first vaca!

I also had Georgia "make" an ornament. I gave my mom the hand. (Actually, I gave her 2 because she lost the first one...haha!) I kept the foot. I made a foot for me because making a hand print of a 7 month old is REALLY hard!

I made Georgia her first ornament although I do not plan on making her one every year. I'll either be buying or making. I'm open to both options...just depends on what I want that year. This is what Georgia did with her ornament every chance she got.

She also has her own tree. It's pink so all the ornaments are pink. My mom bought her 4 ornaments this year so at this rate she'll need a bigger tree by next year. She got 2 pink truffles, a pink star fish from Galveston, and a pink mini Christmas tree. We will continue to collect pink ornaments for her.

J's Gift

2011-12-28T08:36:00.000-06:00

I told Jonathan his Christmas gift from Georgia would be a little late this year because I needed one of my Christmas gifts (Photoshop...which I knew I was getting) to make it.

I used the tutorial on YHL and got to work (took me way too long!). Here is the finished product. The candid pictures that I took correspond with the month they are in. The professional pictures do not. I wanted a mix. I'm thinking of making one for at home too because the one I made is for J at work.

Our Christmas Morning

2011-12-26T22:56:00.002-06:00

{Linking up HERE}

This is our 4th married Christmas but our first as parents. We were so excited for Georgia and honestly forgot we even had gifts for ourselves. I did video the whole morning but I'm guessing it is far too boring for anyone else to watch.

Here is our morning in pictures!

Wagon from Nana and Pawpaw

Took the lights off the tree

...and decided to crawl into a box

a dab of cool whip with her puffs...because it's Christmas! Duh!

First Christmas as a family of THREE!

Kisses!

Smores. Yum :)

Lost in all of her gifts!

She was a VERY good girl this year ;)

I'll post more about me and Jonathan's gifts when I can find the time.

Merry Christmas.

I hope yours was as blessed as my family's!

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T10:10:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas

-Blogger World-

{my version of advent activities}

-notice she doesn't repeat a Christmas outfit or winter wear-

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Giveaway Winner

2011-12-23T08:11:00.000-06:00

And the winner is

Lia Joy

!!!
please email me at Emily.Powell@ymail.com for your PRIZE!

.............................

And

because I wish all of you could win

I have four presents for all of you!

Use this online code

STMMMS98508

(copy and past)

and you will receive 10$ off of your purchase of the My Memories Suite (price - 39.97$) and a 10$ coupon in the My Memories store!!!
{this is also on my right side bar}

Free download 1

Download HERE

Free download 2

Download HERE

Free download 3

Download HERE

Enjoy

and

be sure to visit MyMemories.com!!!

Project 52

2011-12-22T08:00:00.000-06:00

Project 52

~~Totally dropped the ball~~

Catch up :)

- Ornament Reflection -

- Your Tree -

- Winter Wear -

Today is the last day to enter in my giveaway from My Memories.

Go HERE to enter now :)

Merry Christmas!

Wednesday ♥

2011-12-21T07:30:00.000-06:00

Link up HERE with Jamie!

On this wednesday I am

LOVING...

The giveaway I have going on HERE from My Memories (digital scrapbooking!) It's open until Thursday night!

That not only am I on a 2 week break from work but so is my husband! Love it!

This picture! Georgia and I had a play date at a friend's house. Georgia thinks playing is crawling over her little friend. This just cracks me up!

Marshmallow Cresent Rolls! These are SO yummy!

Recipe found on Pinterest but when I clicked on the link it didn't work so I just kind of winged it and it turned out great!

And finally, I am loving that Christmas is SO SOON! I cannot wait to let Georgia crawl into the living room on Christmas morning. I plan on setting up the camera on a tri pod (like my dad did) to get the entire morning. Ahh...so excited!!!

My Memories Giveaway!

2011-12-20T09:42:00.000-06:00

My FIRST Giveaway

Brought to you by

My Memories

{Award winning digital scrapbook software that is extremely easy and fun to use. My Memories Suite is rated #1 by Amazon and TopTen Reviews. Using this software, anyone can create digital scrapbooks, photobooks, cards, calendars and gifts without having to buy expensive and complicated software programs.}

The winner will recieve:

The

My Memories Suite
(a nearly 40$ value!)

I used the My Memories Suite to create a possible first birthday invitation for Georgia.

(I still need to create a few more options before I finalize it. But, I do have 5 months to work on it...)

I'm NOT a good scrapbooker but I LOVE this program. It's easy to try new things without all the cutting, taping, and gluing. I have scrapbooked once and all the mess just totally turned me off to it. You can even have your pages printed out in photobooks! I REALLY am excited to go through all of their free kits and get to downloading!

Go HERE to visit their online gallery.

To enter:

1 Entry- Leave a comment on this post.

1 Entry - Go to MyMemories.com, pick your favorite free kit, and leave a comment telling me what it is.

1 Entry - Become my follower (leave the comment "new follower")

{Each person can have up to 3 entries and the contest ends Thursday at 11:50 Central}

Happy Scrapbooking!

Monday!

2011-12-19T08:58:00.001-06:00

Miscellany Monday!

{Link up HERE}

Friday

I went through G's six month pictures and ordered the ones I wanted! Here are a few of my favorites! Thanks Kristal!

Saturday

Georgia's first Christmas celebration

-At Jonathan's grandparents-

Sunday

Lunch after church

-that's her first orange slice-

Monday

I'm going to mail our Christmas cards today! Late, yes I know BUT I blame the baby! ;) They are printed on linen cardstock hence the funny scan.

AND be on the lookout for my first giveaway this week!!!

Free Printables

2011-12-17T19:16:00.000-06:00

I made Jonathan and I a Christmas to do list that is full of fun stuff!

I also made Thanksgiving art last month.

Feel free to take and use them as you like.

But, if you post them on your blog, please link back to me :)

Merry Christmas!

Georgia - Seven Months

2011-12-17T09:54:00.000-06:00

{Georgia's 6 month stats: 28in - 96th% 19lbs - 90th% My chunker has actually lost weight because of crawling. Now she is only in the 90th%...haha!}

So, Little Girl

You are seven months old today.

Here is a peek into your life this month.

New Tricks:

Pulling up

climbing

standing occasionally on your own for a few seconds

Walking behind your push elephant

Sizes: Anything from 6-9 or 6-12 or 9-12. Diapers - size 3

Eating:

4 8oz bottles. 3 meals. I just did a full post on your food yesterday.

Sleeping:

You are now at 12 hours on average. Bedtime can be anywhere from 7:30 - 8:30. Just depends on what we've done that day. Sometime you even sleep over 12 hours!

You take 2 naps a day. Early afternoon and late afternoon. You're having a hard time right now deciding if you actually liked being rocked or not. I think you may be tyring to change your nap schedule...I'm not sure.

Sounds:

Your language skills have exploded this month! You say "dada", "mama", "hi" or "hey", you make a "G" type sound when you see Perry and you are making "B" type sounds that we interpret as "bye bye" or "baby" and you've made a lot of sounds that cover nearly the entire alphabet. When you say your "words" you have no idea what your saying...you don't associate any meaning with them at all. On 12.11.11 is when this language explosion happened...literally overnight.

Likes:

when dad comes home from work

walking behind your elephant

riding in the grocery cart

Perry

Dislikes:

not getting what you want

when I hide your elephant

I love you so much Georgia! You are a joy!

(Click HERE to see Georgia's growth over the past 7 months!)

FOOD!

2011-12-16T08:38:00.000-06:00

Our Little G has been loving food for quite some time. I didn't think 4 months was a light switch and BOOM, suddenly Georgia would be ready for rice cereal and I thought the same thing about food at 6 months. I followed Georgia's lead and tried a few things here and there to see when she was ready.

We started cereal at 3.5 months. My intention was to have her 100% knowing how to use a spoon by 4 months and it worked. By 4 months she was downing her cereal like nobodies business. I was worried she would take less formula once she was started on solids but that wasn't the case. She added solids in addition to her cereal which was really nice and another clue to me that she was ready.

Around 4 months I started experimenting with bananas and avocados and she really enjoyed both. I would mash a bit up and put it in her cereal or put slices in her food teether. Her first bite of banana she just smiled and smiled.

Now, we're to the point where we just let her taste most stuff we're eating because if we're eating she MUST eat too. Most milestones Georgia has hit early...really early. So, why would/should food be any different for her?

I make most of her food and mostly use organic when I can. I bake or steam the food and then toss it in the blender (add water when needed). When I bake the items I put them on foil first making clean up pretty much zero which is nice. I prefer to use the blender because I can make large batches about once a month

Here is a break down:

Prepare - Peel and/or cut

Bake - Most things bake around 350-400 for 35-40 minutes.

Blend - I use the "Crush" setting then once the big chunks are out I use the "Baby Food" setting. I add water to get the consistency I'm looking for. Once I'm done I just rinse the blender and it's ready for the next batch.

Freeze - I have 2oz containers and I have 1oz ice cube trays

Store - If they are in the trays I pop them out and put them in freezer bags so that I can keep making more food with the trays.

She is not picky at all and will eat anything I make her. We still use store bought baby food but only when we go out of town since her food needs to remain frozen. To date I've made her: apple and pear with a tiny bit of cinnamon and sugar, sweet potatoes, carrots, butternut squash, avocado with banana and mango, honey dew melon with blueberry, peas, green beans, and sweet potatoes mixed with apple. (I think that covers it all.)

So far the only thing she will not eat is store bought baby food bananas. I guess it tastes too different from the fresh ones I give her? I'm not sure since I don't eat bananas myself.

Now we have moved onto finger foods because she loves to feed herself. Anything that is bite sized she is down for it. Banana or avocado bits, puffs, mum mums, any of the Gerber foods labeled "crawler", broccoli, strawberries, and anything on me or Jonathan's plate that she can eat.

This is the first time I let her feed herself. Obviously I forgot her bib.

Christmas Decor

2011-12-14T21:33:00.000-06:00

Welcome to my Christmas Tour.

I'm linking up with

The Nester

and

Kelly's Korner

Getting up the Christmas decor this year was for sure different...to say the least. Georgia crawls now so someone has to be watching her always since her crawling leads to pulling up on things and that often leads to falling.

Last year, Jonathan did almost all the decor while my pregnant self dictated from the sofa so this year I was more than happy to take part again! Although, there was so much more I wish I could have done but Georgia is and will always be my excuse for not getting things done or taking better quality pictures of the things I did get done. Christmas really just snuck up on me this year!

Without further ado: Our Christmas Decor!

Let's start outside!

The porch is underwhelming...get over it : /

Then, the foyer. I should have taken close ups but I only have so much time to snap pictures with a nearly 7 month old crawling around my feet.

off of the foyer is the guest bedroom with our travel tree

Our little man from Spain. Love him!

then, there is Georgia's precious little pink tree

the kitchen is very non-festive : / So, let's just skip that area.

The dining table is just lovely in my opinion

Here is the whole dining room

Next up is the mantle and the tree! Again, I didn't have the time to take close ups. Maybe if I had three hands instead of only two. I need an extra to wrangle Georgia with!

A few of my favorite ornaments

Last but not least, Georgia's Nativity! P.S. If you see a "Little People" Mary please return her. She has been M.I.A. for two days now and it's hard to explain where Jesus came from with no Mary.

Thanks for stopping by and merry Christmas!

*Stay tuned for my FIRST GIVEAWAY next week!*

WILW

2011-12-14T06:30:00.000-06:00

Here is what I am LOVING this Wednesday!

(alternate title: How many pictures can I post at one sitting?!)

{link up HERE!}

1. Christmas break starts at the end of today for me! Yay. I love only working 2 days a week. Just lovely.

2. This past weekend I was in Dallas for my annual Christmas girls trip with my besties from college. I didn't take one picture. My apologies. Can you believe it was our SEVENTH Christmas to celebrate together!? It was a lot of fun. Ashley's (one of the besties) dad has an apartment downtown so that's where we stayed (although he lives in Tulsa so we had the place to ourselves)! We spent a lot of time shopping, eating, and cuddling in bed and watching TV or laughing. It was a much needed break for me.

3. I FINALLY got a picture of Georgia with Santa. First trip the line was too long. Second trip the Santa/photographer were so rude I refused to buy anything from them and left in a fit of rage. Third trip Santa never showed because he was "sick" and the fourth trip was AMAZING. Glad I stuck with it.

Before Santa number two

After Santa number three was sick

Before the photographer for Santa number four got back from her break

Santa number four!

4. The action app on my phone.

5. Christmas photo shoots!

6. Spending time with family!

7. Birthday parties!

Follow Up

2011-12-11T21:24:00.001-06:00

A few days ago I finished my special ornament for G's first Christmas.

It didn't take long to make...it's just a matter of finding the time when you have a monkey child.

AND...for those wondering Georgia is past her waking up to practice standing routine. We practiced getting down A LOT during the day by just letting her play in her crib for a while each day and if she did wake up we let her cry it out. The most she cried was maybe 30 minutes and one time it was less than 2 minutes. After about two days it stopped and we are so very thankful!

I have about a BAZILLION blog posts coming. I just need to find the time because I was out of town this weekend and have been crazy, CRAZY busy.

HELP!

2011-12-08T07:44:00.001-06:00

Whenever my child is mastering a new skill she wakes herself up to practice. It's really annoying. Right now it's walking/climbing/pulling up on everything in sight and I don't see walking in her near future so I'm not sure when this is going to end.

Yesterday she went down at 7:50 for the night and woke up at 8:50 and 9:50 to "practice". Then she woke up at 6:30 (which is to early for her) crying because she was standing up in her crib but couldn't figure out how to let go so she could go back to sleep.

Then, her first nap of the day she woke up 20 minutes in and then 40 minutes in to "practice" some more and got mad again because she couldn't get down.

Last night she went down at 8:40 and woke up about 15 minutes in and we caught her right before she stood up and got her to go back to sleep with the butt pat. Then she cried out at about 10:00 but put herself back to sleep. She full on woke up at nearly 4. Standing up in her crib and just yelling! I told her, "Sorry, you're on your own with this one" and proceeded to turn my baby monitor off so I could get back to sleep. (Yes, I am that parent!) Then I had a thought, what if I put something she wants in her crib so she'll reach for it, sit back down, and then she'll fall back to sleep?! So, I went back into her room, put a stuffed doll in her crib and left her still standing and yelling at me.

It worked! Within 5 minutes she was back asleep (I went and checked on her because I left the monitor off so J could sleep) for a total of about 10 minutes of crying. Wow. I'm pretty sure that was a record for her in shortest lived crying session.

This morning she still woke up too early to begin her practice routing meaning the doll didn't work after all. Ugh.

So, to all you parents out there with older children what do I do??? If I rescue her every time she'll never learn. I don't mind letting her cry it out AT ALL. Doesn't bother me one bit but does it work in the "pulling up" situation when she isn't even 7 months old yet (she will be on the 17th.) I've been thinking about getting her a crib tent to prevent the next step, crawling out of her crib. I started doing that at 7 months and my mom tied a sheet to the top of my crib so I couldn't get out and my nephew had to have a crib tent as well BUT will that prevent her from standing up to get her "practice" on?

Please HELP!

*update* Her crib is at the second to lowest spot. Hers has 4 settings. Even if we lower it all the way down she puts her hands above the bumper pads then slowly moves her hands up until she can stand and then grabs the top rail. So even in I use the lowest setting she can still stand up by holding onto the bars.

Holiday Crafting

2011-12-05T20:55:00.001-06:00

I had A LOT of holiday crafts that I wanted to do...looks like I most likely will not get to all of them seeing as how I haven't even finished decorating for Christmas, haven't finished our Christmas shopping, haven't had our Christmas cards made, and will be out of town this coming weekend.

Ugh...life with a very mobile 6.5 month old I guess. Maybe over Christmas break when I have an extra set of hands around the house :)

Anyways, I WILL be making Georgia's "First Christmas" ornament as well as our family picture ornament, and the travel picture ornament I forgot to buy on vacation this year...

{via Land of Nod}

{via here}

If you don't see a follow up post to this soon it's because of my child who is part baby part monkey.

;)

Parenting

2011-12-05T11:55:00.000-06:00

Parenting - Six months in

With a whole entire six months under my belt this is what I have to say about the "parenting" thing. (In a very rambling non coherent type of way.)

Every baby is different. Every mom and dad are different. So, every family is different. That's what makes the world interesting but it can also make things hard. Especially in the blogger world because it's hard to not compare your baby/parenting styles with others.

Georgia's first seven weeks of life were the hardest seven weeks of my life. She had colic that magically disappeared the same week I threw in the towel on breastfeeding. (Jonathan and I realized that the other day and now wonder if there were some feeding issues there we never realized?) Colic these days isn't related to gas or tummy issues anymore (says new research) so babies just cry. For no reason. Jonathan and I were in the lucky 20% of parents who got a colic baby. At first she cried all the time. Then, I realized she was hungry and started formula and she would cry from 7-11 (off and on) every night. It was hard. REALLY hard. I think God gives really impatient people (me!) very trying times on purpose...to grow as a Christian. And, while I see that and know that to be true it didn't make it any easier. Although, now that I've dealt with a colic baby once I'm pretty sure I could do it again. Next go around I will just have a different outlook knowing that it does stop at some point. Georgia's stopped literally all at once (although it did SIGNIFICANTLY decrease with The Happiest Baby on the Block!)

Parenting for me was a huge reality check. One little tiny person can knock you on your butt so many times and say, "Hey, I'm the priority. Not you. Get over it!" Again, I knew all of this was coming. I had nine months to prepare but it was still hard letting go of all my "me" time. I'm one of those people who really values my alone time.

Also, nobody has ever made me feel more dumb in my entire life than Georgia. And clearly, not on purpose. There is just such a HUGE learning curve with the first child. Learning their likes and dislikes. Which paci she likes, how she likes/needs to be held, that she needs formula to fill her tummy, that her crazy arms and hands wake her up, that she actually wants to sleep on her tummy...I could go on forever.

I've learned that crying it out is ok and it does work, that "this too shall pass", it really is true that when babies are learning a new skill their bodies will wake them up to practice that skill, not to ever get too comfortable with one routine...when you do she'll change it, tummy sleeping and formula are life savers, and that stress can steal your joy so quickly! I let my stress get the better of me SO many times and I regret it so SO much. There are so many sweet newborn moments I cannot get back that I just wasted by being a huge stress ball...not that the colic made it any better.

BUT

While being a mom is hands down the hardest thing I have ever done in my entire life and has made me cry more times than I care to mention it is without a doubt the most rewarding experience God could have given us. Her first smile (on purpose!). The first time she reaches for somethings and actually grabs it. You should have seen Jonathan and I the first time she waved to us on purpose. I'm sure we looked like idiots. We were so excited! Watching her grow and develop is amazing. Seeing her smile is just the best. Her smile is only overshadowed by her adorable laugh. I just can't get enough!

Georgia for sure keeps us on our toes around here but I love that she is head strong and determined.

Six months of parenting has taught me how to be a better person, how to be a better wife, and that this life is not centered around me. (Clearly, I'm the youngest child in my family and the only girl!) It's been a challenge to say the least. I never realized how selfish I was until Georgia was born but I'm glad she was the one who let me know ;)

Project 52

2011-11-30T11:27:00.001-06:00

I planned on blogging earlier in the day but Georgia is teething AND got vaccines today. I'm sure all moms out there understand what I'm saying...

Also, I'm trying to post about things other than Georgia. I really REALLY am. I am just so busy that my blog is just about documenting her life now it seems and I don't want it to be entirely that.

Anyhow, I'm working on it!

Catch up for Project 52

- Highly edited -

- Thankful -

Christmas card

- can't post this yet because I don't have one for our family yet -

TBA

Wednesday

2011-11-29T20:54:00.001-06:00

What I'm Loving Wednesday

(Linking up with Jamie)

1. My Georgia's sweet smile

2. Christmas decorations are going up!

3. My wonderful husband

Happy Wednesday!

Thanksgiving part II

2011-11-28T12:59:00.001-06:00

Sorry, on holidays I kind of forget to post. I just hang out with J and G and don't do much else :) Part one of my holiday post is HERE and I'm just now getting around to part two. I've had it in the works for awhile but am just now posting. Oh well.
Wednesday:
Took family pictures with Jonathan's family
Ate at Pei wei.

Thursday:
Jonathan's family Thanksgiving was at our house this year. I was too busy to take pictures. Sorry : /

Friday:
My mom came over for a bit.
Jonathan and I knocked out most of the second half of our Christmas shopping list. I start my Christmas shopping early. We just have a few more things to get at this point.

November date night:
We went to Bayou Bend here in Houston for a Christmas tour. It was great!

Saturday:
We started our Christmas decorations but it's been a bit hard with a very mobile baby to get anything done. We haven't done anything outside yet but the inside is nearly done. It's a start.

Georgia went to her first birthday party and had a great time. She crawled all over the place and slept about 30 extra minutes the next morning. Clearly, she was pooped! The only picture I took of her at the party.

Sunday:
Went to church and taught sunday school
lunch with our family
home finally

Georgia looking pretty in her church clothes :)

Georgia:
She now has her two bottom teeth so we thought the teething would be over for just a bit. The bottom two teeth were not bad at all and we didn't even notice she was teething (since she had RSV at the time and was already a bit clingy) but I'm guessing she is now working on the top two and these seem to be a bit harder. She is still sleeping (longer actually but I think that is because of her intense crawling/climbing/pulling up on everything phase...she just has no energy left at the end of the day!). She is just a bit clingy/needs to be entertained more than usual. Also, she is a bit fussy when eating. I just give her Tylenol AND Oragel AND Teething Tablets. Just to cover all my bases.

Also, she is a MOVER! I need to write an entire post just over this alone. I tell her everyday that she is just OUT OF CONTROL. Example: she is on the ground crawling. Crawls over to her walker and pulls herself to the standing position (all by herself) then LET'S GO and stands up on her own for about 3 seconds before she grabs onto the walker again! Mind you, she is six months old. Craziness!

Sorry, I couldn't turn the video. This is her with her elephant walker that she loves. I need to get a better video because she can walk with it pretty well.

Break is O.V.E.R. :( And, Jonathan starts soccer (boo!) and it lasts until march. MARCH!!!

Thankful

2011-11-24T16:12:00.001-06:00

Break {Part I}

2011-11-22T07:59:00.001-06:00

Monday marked the start of our Thanksgiving break. Jonathan has off the entire week and it's so nice having him home 24/7. When he's home I forget to blog.

Of course though, in our usual fashion, we hit the ground running and haven't really slowed down since our break began.

Friday:
We went all the way to the mall to get yogurt and the place was closed. As in, out of business :( So, we got Cinnabon and a cookie instead!

Saturday:
We headed to Conroe to hang out with my brother and my dad. We shopped. We ate a lot. And, we finally found some yogurt! It was a fun day.

Sunday:
We taught Sunday School (3 year old class) for the first time and had a blast. Then, we did Thanksgiving with my mom's side of the family. Too bad my mom didn't even come because she was sick!

Monday:
We FINALLY had our carpets cleaned. I made a tone of baby food and Jonathan had to feed Georgia in her room because of the carpet guy. The picture below is what happened. She looks like she wants to punch him! We also made a HUGE grocery run and did G's 6 month pictures. (Not ONE smile the whole sessions! NOT. ONE.)

Tuesday:
I had yet ANOTHER Dr's appointment for my stupid thyroid. Good news: I DID NOT pass out when they took my blood! YAY me! Then, we went to my brother's house for movie night. My brother's little girl, Molly Kathryn LOVES Georgia. She pushed her around in the walker for about 20 minutes saying, "BeBe!"

Georgia:
Cut 2 teeth (while she had RSV and started crawling)
crawling like crazy
switched car seats
waves bye bye
trying to talk

Thankfulness:
16. The opportunity to work at a Christian school. I love being able to talk about Christianity openly with my students and being able to do religious art work (mainly Christmas) with them. It's so nice.
17. Georgia's sweet smile.
18. Jonathan got a bonus at work for his students making certain scores on the Texas standardized tests to the tune of $,$$$! Woo to the hoo!
19. Fun family days and being productive.
20. The opportunity to be involved at our church teaching the 3's.
21. Perry was almost sick but it turns out that he's ok. Thank goodness!
22. Jonathan and I got new phones. We're pretty excited about it and even though it's a little thing we're still thankful!
23. A lot of family time this week!

I have A LOT of other things to post but I'll have to find some more time...BUT with Thanksgiving at our house this year I'm not sure when I'll be finding the time.

Georgia - Six Months

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

My. Oh. My.
Sweet Girl, how are you HALF A YEAR old today?

Here is some of what is going on with you these days!

Sitting as of 10-21(ish)-11
Crawling as of 11-12-11 (not very good at crawling but you can!)
First time being sick 11-9-11 (RSV)
You can give kisses
You try to wave

(I should really try to post videos of me where I don't look like a total train wreck. This is morning play time. Her "kisses" are her just leaning in towards my face. Still pretty cute because she does it every. single. time.)

Sizes:
Diapers - 3
Clothes - 6-9 or 6-12

Eating:
4 bottles a day
6-9 oz per bottle
3 meals a day

Breakfast is one hour after your morning bottle. Lunch is one hour after your second bottle. Dinner is one hour after your third bottle.

Your foods include: oatmeal, apple, pear, squash, peas, green beans, sweet potatoes, carrots, avocado, banana, mango, puffs, yogurt bites, and mum mums. You really like to eat.

On Nov. 11th I took you to the dr. and you weighed 19lbs and 10oz. You were 27 inches long. I had to cancel your 6 month check up because of RSV so I don't have your official 6 month stats yet.

Sleep:
You take a morning nap and an afternoon nap. Both tend to be 1 - 1.5 hours each. You were sleeping from about 7:30-7 each day and then you got sick so I can't really say what your sleep habits are these days. You're still hovering around 10.5 - 11 hours now that you're recovering from being sick so I guess I can't complain.

Talking:
You don't really babble that much. You are either blowing raspberries ALL THE TIME or are just yelling. You yell A LOT and very loudly...mainly, at Perry. You do "ooooo" and "aaaaaa" in the morning a lot when you first get up.

Here are just a few of her many raspberries! (And, a very runny nose!)

To sum it up:
You're pretty much happy all the time. Everything in sight is fair game for your chubby hands. You're very grabby and very active and curious! I just know you're on the verge of turning my house upside down!

Wednesday!

2011-11-16T07:15:00.000-06:00

Linking up with Jamie {HERE}

1. I LOVE all the sweet comments I got yesterday about my sweet G baby's outfit. A few people asked me about it so I got the pants {HERE} and the onsie was custom made by Michelle Holloway (a home town friend). Her email is mholloway@fbccrosby.net if anyone is interested! She is also making me two Christmas onsies.

My Christmas order:

2. Today is my Friday (since I only work Mondays and Wednesdays) and that means no work until the 28th because of Thanksgiving break! Woo hoo! I do love my job and it's pretty laid back only working 2 days a week but it's nice to have something out of the everyday routine once and awhile.

3. Parenthood. Does anyone else watch this show on NBC??? Jonathan and I are obsessed to say the least. This is only the second season so it would be really easy for any of you to catch up!

Ok, that's all I've got today! Happy Wednesday!

Blah Tuesday

2011-11-15T07:33:00.000-06:00

- Today I am -

- Thankful -

- For -

{Day 14}

a cozy house on a dreary day

{Day 15}

Georgia starting to feel better

(Even though J and I are NOT!)

Full of Thanks

2011-11-13T19:54:00.000-06:00

{Day 13}

Today I am thankful for:

All the prayers and kind comments about Georgia being sick

for the first time

And, just because she's cute :)

Day 12

2011-11-12T19:09:00.000-06:00

Thankful

*The other day I posted I was thankful for a baby who had never been sick in her nearly six months. Now she has RSV. Clearly, I spoke too soon.*

Today I am thankful that although my sweet baby has RSV she is still acting like herself (pretty much).

Also, she started crawling today. She only does two little "crawls" before laying down and continuing to army crawl but it's a start.

(We think she is on day 3 or 4 of what could be 14 days of sickness. The dr. said days 4-6 are usually the hardest. Yesterday was when I really noticed she was sick because she developed a wet cough on top of her already runny nose. I expected last night to be pretty rough but she still slept from 7:30 - 6:50 which is pretty typical and she has still been napping ok. The only time she gets fussy from being sick is when she gets tired and she's been a bit more clingy than usual but overall she is handling it pretty well so far. No fever, ear infection, or decreased appetite. Please keep her in your prayers because it could still get worse and much more serious. She most likely picked it up from the church nursery because that is the only public place she really gets out and about. When we run errands she still typically stays in her car seat, stroller, Bjorn, or our arms. The dr. said she got it by coming in contact with the snot or spit of another child who had it. Also, the dr. said it has been going around A LOT so tomorrow when you drop your babies off at the church nursery be on the look out for a runny nose or wet cough because it could be something more serious! RSV in anyone over the age of two is just called "a cold".)

Project 52 {15}

2011-11-11T09:03:00.000-06:00

- Fall -

"I'm fallin' for you daddy!"

Georgia's newest trick? Giving kisses! It's precious :)

Day 11 - I am thakful for being married to such a hard working and selfless guy. I don't know how I got so lucky.

A Vlog Survey

2011-11-10T14:30:00.000-06:00

Before you watch

*My PJ's are still on and I have no make up on and I had not even brushed my hair

*The guest room is a mess. G and I like to hang out in that bed.

*Georgia is banging on the desk a lot.

{Day 10 - I am thankful for a baby who has never been sick in her nearly 6 months of life!}

BU Love!

2011-11-09T20:33:00.003-06:00

Here is the play by play of our trip this past weekend:

We headed out of Houston on Friday afternoon so that we could make it to Waco for the Bonfire. A ton of people from our church went to Baylor (including my older brother and his family) so we met up with them and took one big Sunday school class picture.

Afterwards we headed to our cabin that we rented. It was next to a church friend's cabin, and my brother and his family's cabin. All would have been well if ours would have had a heater. Theirs did...ours did not. So, at midnight my brother and J headed to Walmart to get a space heater (since it was in the low 40s) and because G's late night sleep was very interrupted she didn't go to bed for good until after 12! The next day we decided to not spend the second night there and to just go home which ended up being ok. Since we had to buy the heater the company didn't charge us for cancelling because it was their fault that our cabin was missing the heater that it was supposed to come with.

Saturday we headed to the parade. It was cold and Georgia was a bit overwhelmed.

Hung out in the library so G could play. She was being held, put in her stroller or car seat 24/7 so I wanted to give her a little break.

Took pictures on campus. (A couple even stood behind us and snapped a few pictures of G with their own camera...kind of strange). It was crowded but I knew G would want a nap soon so it was a now or never kind of thing. She actually fell asleep before we ever got the car while I was holding her. But we took her back later in the day to finish up.

Had lunch at Ninfa's. G slept the entire time.

Went to Cameron Park Zoo where G finally woke up.

Went to the Dr. Pepper museum. This is J's favorite because they make you fresh Dr. Pepper out of the soda fountain. I always get ice cream. Then, we packed up and headed home.

Georgia was an angel the entire trip and people just "ooohed" and "awwed" over her cute little dress and her chubby, chubby cheeks. We were going to go to the game but it didn't start until 6 and I didn't want to push my luck since Georgia had been so good the entire trip.

Overall we had a good time and can't wait to go back next year!

{Day 9 - I am thankful for my wonderful friends at work. I'm happy to spend each Monday and Wednesday with them}

Thankful Catch Up

2011-11-08T07:12:00.000-06:00

Since I was gone over the weekend I didn't get to keep up with my full month of THANKFULNESS!

Day 4 - That Georgia gets to grow up so closely with her sweet cousins. I love that they get to spend so much time together!

Day 5 - That my mom and step dad paid for me to go to a wonderful school - Baylor University. The only school I even applied to. I just loved the time I spent there and am so thankful for never having to feel the stress of paying for my own tuition, groceries, or gas.

Day 6 - My baby girl who was so sweet the entire time we were out of town and was just so laid back. It was really nice.

Day 7 - Jonathan and I got our flu shots for free at his school. It was nice to not have to pay this year!

Day 8 - FOOTBALL SEASON IS OVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ok, now I'm all caught up. Well, caught up in the sense of this blog post but not at all caught up from our weekend away from home. We'll get there...I hope.

Recovery

2011-11-07T07:38:00.000-06:00

Still in recovery from a weekend out of town for Baylor's Homecoming. I'm not sure I'll ever get unpacked.

On a FUN note though, Georgia finally got to meet Liam. (Lyndsey's precious little baby boy from It's A Love Story). Can't you tell how excited they are to see each other? Liam is looking at the ground and I'm pretty sure Georgia is staring Will down (Liam's dad).

Obviously you can't tell in this picture but G has on a super cute Baylor dress...holding a nearly 20 lbs baby is daunting sometimes.

Maybe I'll get around to posting more about this weekend later...maybe I won't. Right now I'm battling a baby who doesn't understand daylight savings time and frankly, neither do I.

Blah...

HUGE catch all!

2011-11-03T09:22:00.001-05:00

For the sake of not posting 10,000 separate posts today (me, exaggerate? no way...) I'm going to make one huge mish mash of post...so, get ready!

Project 52 - 14

Costume

-The tiny picture is at FBC's Fall Festival. My mom and step dad took Georgia because I was in a wedding that night. I was so sad to miss it. And, we took her to Mud Pie and made her footprint into a ghost. I was going to use her hand but it's really hard to get the hand print of a 5 month old!-

November Thankfulness

Day 3

Today, I am thankful the weather. The high today is 67 and the low tonight is 38. Hello fall. FINALLY!

Quick recap of everything else you've missed!

-Medical update
I had to have blood work done the other day at the endocrinologist because of my hypothyroidism. My doctor explained that for a year after you have a baby that your thyroid levels can fluctuate from normal to hypo to hyper over and over again. She listened to all my symptoms (low milk production, extreme weight loss, on and on and on) while looking at all of my charts and said that my levels we most likely going all over the place. So, anyway I go to get my blood drawn and it was coming out really slowly because I apparently had not been drinking enough water. They send me home, tell me to drink a lot of water, and come in again in the next few days. So, I did just that. I made Jonathan come with me because of my history of passing out when I give more than two vials of blood. And what do I do...oh, I pass out. It was actually Jonathan's first time to be with me when this has happened...it's usually my mom. Blah! So embarrassing! I didn't know this but, the nurse explained to me that if you have familiar voices around you when you pass out that you come to much quicker. That explains why when I passed out this time I could hear Jonathan's voice the entire time and I heard Georgia cry when the nurses were tyring to play with her and keep her occupied but I never heard the 5 or 6 nurses and the 2 doctors who were rushed over to help...isn't that strange how your brain works?

-Sunday School
Jonathan and I were asked to teach the 3 year old sunday school class at our church. Well actually, I was asked but Jonathan volunteered to be my "co-teacher" so that we can occasionally switch off and go to our adult sunday school class. We're really excited about this and to now be involved directly with our church. We start on the 13th I think...

-Pink eye
Yes. You read that right. Last week I had pink eye. EWW! You can get it from practically any bacteria or virus getting into your eye. My dr. said I most likely got it at work from a student who had pink eye because it is crazy contagious. It didn't hurt or feel bad at all. It was actually nice because they sent me home from work, Jonathan came home early AND took the next day off because I pretty much wasn't allowed to touch Georgia for two days and I had to wash and sanitize EVERYTHING in the house I had touched...but Jonathan was home. I love it when he's home :)

-Besties
My loves Jaclyn and Ashley came to Houston on Thursday and stayed until Sunday for our friends wedding. We had a ton of fun. I was so glad I was able to see them for a few days!

-Wedding
My college roommate Megan got married on Saturday. We had a great time at the wedding. Jaclyn, Ashley, and I were the house party. We totally rocked it :)

-Crawling
All my child can think of these days is crawling. Pretty much since the day she turned 5 months she has been trying to crawl. I'm excited that she is ahead of the game and developing usually a month or so ahead of schedule but I am NOT ready for a crawler! At 4.5 months she was pulling up on furniture from sitting to standing and now this! I'm not sad because she is "growing up too fast", I'm dreading it because she is about to turn my house UPSIDE DOWN in the coming weeks and I'm not ready! My mom said that at 7 months I was climbing out of my crib (they tied a sheet to the top to keep me in!) She just laughs and tells me I'm raising myself. Ugh...I hope not!

-Puffs
To let Gigi (Jonathan's new nickname for Georgia) practice her fine motor skills we gave her some puffs. It was really funny and she did pretty well with them. She wanted them in her mouth but when they got there (after no less than 100 tries per puff) she had no idea what to do with them. I love that funny face!

-Pumpkin Baby
Everyone and their mom pinned the pumpkin picture on Pinterest and I was no different. I loved how the pictures came out though...hysterical!

Giving Thanks!

2011-11-02T09:59:00.000-05:00

- Day 2 -

Today I am thankful because:

a. Georgia slept more than her usual time last night. Praise God! (Now, we just need to learn how to deal with daylight savings when that comes around this weekend.....ugh!)

G this morning in her thermals. So stinkin' cute!

b. The hubs doesn't have practice today! That means he is coming home at 3:30. YAY! YAY! YAY!

c. Wednesdays are my Fridays :)

November Thankfulness!

2011-11-01T20:41:00.000-05:00

Day 1

I am thankful for Hebrews 13:6

So we say with confidence, "The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid."

My day started out as "one of those days". G woke up at 5 (no clue why) but I just left her alone and she fell back asleep until 6...still too early. Blah. It's like she teases me with a few days of sleeping over 11 hours and then decides, "Nope! Let's get up early mom!"

Then, I got spit up on about 100,000 times. All over me, then all over the tile, then on the carpet, and on every outfit I changed Georgia into to the sum of about two loads of laundry when you add in burp cloths, towels, and bibs. I also had about THREE times today when I would change Georgie's diaper after she was done eating only for her to POOP in the diaper I had just changed about 1 minute prior. Annoying.

I know I sound like I'm complaining but I just wasn't up for the puke and poop on top of the slight lack of sleep.

So yes, I am thankful for a God who will hear me and help me.

Weekend Preview!

2011-10-31T08:25:00.001-05:00

Here is a little glimpse into my weekend! {Link up with Carissa HERE!}

1. I signed up to sell Scentsy! Buy online HERE!

2. Besties came to town.

3. Wedding!

Kick Off

2011-10-30T14:30:00.000-05:00

I mentioned a few weeks back I was going to start selling Scentsy (a wick less candle system)...well, I finally took the plunge!

{Full size warmer}

You can buy online HERE always and it will be shipped directly to your house. I also have a link on my right sidebar that will always be open. When you enter my Scentsy website there will be a list of open parties. Just click on either party and then continue your shopping!

{Plug in}

I wanted to get the word out before the big holiday rush. They make great gifts. (My first two warmers were gifts from my mother and MIL and that's how I got hooked!)

{Scentsy buddy with scent pak}

Teachers love them! I can attest to that since I am a teacher. Not only can you use them in the classroom because they meet most school fire/energy codes but also because the wax gets hot enough to melt but does not burn the skin. A much better gift than an apple shaped paper weight or a ton of candy. (I speak from experience). Also, nursery workers at church, friends, family, coworkers, or secret santas would love them as well.

{Solid Perfume}

Scentsy sells: Full size, Mid-size, and plug in warmers. Scentsy buddies, scent packs, solid perfume, fragrance foam, scent circles, travel tins, and room spray. All of which can be bought online and shipped directly to you.

There are clearance items as well for those interested.

Combine and Save is a good way to buy Scentsy. The full list of combine and saves can be found HERE but one example would be:

6 Scentsy Bars

2 Mid-Sized Warmers

68$ (Saves you 12$)

If you have any questions don't hesitate to ask and feel free to go online and SHOP!

Also, have you ever heard of Stella & Dot? It's a really great jewlery company that one of my besties sells. I also have the link on my right hand side bar in you are interested in shopping online.

HAPPY SHOPPING!

Project 52 {12 and 13}

2011-10-27T07:39:00.000-05:00

- Pumpkin -

(Mermaid Halloween Costume)

- Spooky -

AND

Happy Birthday to

ME!

I'm 26 today.

Geeeez! That sounds OLD!

11 Years

2011-10-25T14:06:00.000-05:00

11 Years ago TODAY, Jonathan asked me to be his girlfriend!

I LOVE you, Jonathan.

You're amazing :)

Two days after he, "asked me out"

Engaged

Married

Baby

What an ELEVEN years!

Weekend In A Nutshell

2011-10-24T07:00:00.002-05:00

Linking up HERE!

Picnic Lunch

Pumpkin Patch

(We went to this same pumpkin patch LAST YEAR!)

Birthday Fun

(My b-day is the 27th and my oldest brother's is the 29th so we had a joint party at a park with some family and sunday school friends since we are in the same class at church. It was fun!)

Trampoline

(we went to my brother's after the party to play some more)

Piano

INTENSE much?

We had a great weekend! Marked a few more things off the fall bucket list!

New Around Here

2011-10-21T06:44:00.000-05:00

Head bands: Crocheted head bands from my MIL. I think she bought them for like 3 for a 1$. I love them for the fall/winter since she can't wear a scarf. I made the flower with felt.

31 Products: Have you heard of them? I really like mine!

Leggings: Added the ruffles to the long ones and made the shorter ones from socks.

Fall weather: Jacket time!

Grabbing: Object of interest? Perry!

Halloween front porch: LOVE the wreath(s?) I made! Well, I bought the wreath froms at Hobby Lobby, tied them together, and added the letters. Pretty simple. Surprisingly, I thought of this on my own...NOT a Pinterest find. Who would have thought...

Featured

2011-10-20T07:55:00.000-05:00

I'm not here today.

I'm over at

Through Clouded Glass

Go take a look

!!!

Loving Our Weekends

2011-10-19T06:28:00.001-05:00

Linking up with Jamie - Because I LOVED this past weekend!!!

{Beware - TONS of pictures!}

So, this past weekend Jonathan and I had a weekend full of FALL FUN! (Got to mark off a few things from my Fall Bucket List)

First, Jonathan and I headed to my mom's to drop off G so that we could head out on our "Date Day" doubling as part of my birthday celebration (it's not until the 27th). We went to the Texas Renaissance Festival. This my friends, is people watching at it's best and not to mention the FAIR FOOD! YUM :)

Obviously, we needed to rent a couple of costumes...kidding

Then, I decided I needed to start collecting dragons...not

The "towns" were kind of divided up by countries or continents. They were pretty cute.

One of the theatres

Then, we decided to just shamelessly take pictures of the festival people.

Fairy:

Warrior Princess/Angel???

Best of all: Half man half horse. We just about died!

HUGE swings!

The magic forest

I'm the one with the braid. The elephant trunk came towards me and I jumped and ran away. This was meant to be a picture of me petting it...didn't go as planned.

We bought this in the "Spain" section...so authentic.

Having a TON of fun watching people walk by

Watching some cheesy jousting.

We had a GREAT time. We covered the entire festival and I was beat!

But...

When we went to pick up G from my mom's house we decided to go to an adorable pumpkin patch.

We still have like 2 more pumpkin patches I want to visit and a few more Pinterest pumpkin photo ops I want to tackle but we'll get there!

Sunday was church

Sundays best

(Side note: Jonathan gets G dresses every sunday morning while I get ready. I had her panty hose laid out and he brought her in the bathroom cracking up and says, "Emily, these leggings are so tight that they look like panty hose!" To which I responded, "They ARE panty hose.") Dads are so funny :)

Then, it was Sunday Supper Club. Georgia is looking at Erik like, "You crazy fool!"

good GOOD weekend!

Totally Random Tuesday

2011-10-18T11:04:00.000-05:00

1. Georgia proved me wrong. Last night she slept her full 11 hours and didn't wake up at midnight. Dare I say her bad two nights are now done. We changed a few things though. She normally sleeps in a fleece sleep sack. Her 2 bad nights she was in footies so back to the sleep sack she went. We also bumped the air up since she seemed to be getting cold. I also changed out her Vicks tab on her little Vicks warmer. (She gets congested from all the pollen right now) Lastly, I tried to look at her gums yesterday (discomfort from teething since she drools and chews all the time?) and she totally flipped out and had a melt down. So, I gave her Tylenol and Oragel before bed. Who knows if any of this worked but she had a normal night so maybe...

Here she is in her cute little PJ's.

2. I got up super early this morning when Jonathan go up (5:45!) because I just couldn't sleep and did my Bible study and wrote out a huge list of all that I am thankful for in my life. It turned out to be a great way to start the day even if it was WAY TOO early!

3. TMI but we had a massive diaper explosion this morning. G's arm and leg as well as her bouncer and clothes were all counted as casualties. And, in that same spirit I am now on outfit number ~~two~~ three due to spit up and on my 2nd load of laundry this morning. Blah!

4. Our walk this morning was chilly! Loved it and I love this cooler weather we're having as of today :)

Georgia - 5 Months

2011-10-17T08:00:00.002-05:00

Georgia - Five Months

Today little Love Bug you are FIVE MONTHS old!

oh.my.goodness.

We've passed the newborn stage, we're done with the infant stage, and now we have a full fledged baby on our hands. Where has the time gone, Little One?

Diapers:
You are in size 3 Pampers. You still fit in 2s but we bumped you up because we had a ton on hand. I just borrowed a few cloth diapers from a friend though and we're going to give them a try. I'm SUPER excited about this!

Clothes:
3-6 or 6-9. Sometimes 3-6 can be too small and sometimes 6-9 can be too big. It just depends on the brand really

Food:
So far you have had rice cereal, avocado, carrots, sweet potatoes, apples, apple mixed with banana and pear, a few nibbles of ice cream, a few bits of Mexican rice, and a lick of a strawberry. You've loved every single bite!

Toys:
Anything you can get your hands on. Literally! I say you have "happy hands". You really like small stuffed animals, books, and your Sophie.

Naps:
If we're at home you will typically do a 2 hour morning nap and a 1 hour afternoon nap. Although, if we're out and about at any of your nap times you just catch up later in the day, dose off and on while running errands, or skip it. Usually all your total naps will equal 3 hours but you can go on less.

Sleep:
Before unswaddling you would do 11 or more every night. Now you do 10.5 hours. I'm not sure how unswaddling shaved off 30 minutes, I wish I could have that half hour back, but I'm not going to split hairs with you at this point. I'm still very happy with our nighttime sleep patterns. Although you are going through a rough patch the past 2ish days or so...I'm not sure what's going on but you keep waking up around midnight seemingly upset about somethings. Prayers please!!!

Eating:
On a normal day you will eat 4 meals that range from 7.5oz - 9oz. That sounds like a lot of ounces but it's really not all that much because you really only eat 4 times a day. Sometimes I will "top you off" if bed time is going to come more than an hour after your last bottle.

What's new:
Your toes - totally fascinated!
Grabby - You want to hold everything in sight and put it straight in your mouth
Grunting/Crying/Screaming if you want something out of your reach.
Talking to Perry

You like:
Perry and pretty much everything on your "new" list
Eating
Bath time

You dislike:
Cleaning your face
Cleaning out your nose
Getting out of the bath

and, just because I'm becoming extremely sappy and emotional about newborn Georgia, here she is in all of her one day old sweetness!

I claim every month is just my favorite. Well, it's happened again! Five months is officially my favorite month. So fat and so happy!

Your dad and I love you, sweet girl!

Project 52 {11}

2011-10-13T14:26:00.000-05:00

- The Moon -

"goodnight stars, goodnight air

goodnight noises everywhere."

(My attempt to take a picture of the moon without setting up my tripod failed)