The Landstrom Family

moving on over...

2012-01-19T09:09:00.001-06:00

To WordPress - new addy: http://landstromclan.wordpress.com

come see us there!

Happy 6 months to Sawyer!

2012-01-18T15:38:00.001-06:00

I can't believe Sawyer is already 6 months old! Seems like he was just born a few weeks ago. He is such a happy baby although he struggles in the sleeping without a binkie department lately. At his check up, he weighed 15 pounds 3 ounces, was 26 inches long and had one big head! He eats anything and everything in sight now that his tummy troubles are at bay. His favorites are pears, apples, bananas, squash and carrots. He likes everything but you can tell green beans are the best in his opinion. His first word is very clearly "mama" which he began using the day before he turned a half year old. He is teething and we are waiting for that first tooth to appear. He loves to sleep on his tummy and is just starting to pull a leg up under him while on his tummy in hopes of scooting. I'm pretty sure he's going to crawl before big brother did since he waited until almost 11 months before trying it. Sawyer loves his big brother probably more than anyone in the entire world, me included, and is the smiliest baby you'll meet. We are so thankful to have him in our lives and are so thankful to have been blessed with him. We love you baby Sawyer!

Sawyer at 6 months

Sawyer, 1 day old, with big brother Carter

3 months

2011-10-16T21:01:00.000-05:00

Sawyer is three months old - I cannot believe it. He is such a sweet, happy child. He's still eating pretty often, not sleeping through the night and spits up like crazy at times but I love him to pieces anyway. His hair is (sadly) continuing to fall out but it is coming back in really quickly so (up close) he looks less bald than Carter did at this age. It's also coming in slightly less blond/more brown than Carter's. His eyes are still dark blue.

We've finally figured out that he has several food intolerances and despite my very dedicated and serious efforts to remove pretty much everything (and I do mean everything) from my diet, he is newly weaning himself and is MUCH happier on his alimentum formula. As much as it hurts me to think that by week's end, he'll likely not be nursing anymore, I know that this is best for him - that he hurts less, throws up less, and is thriving on this new diet. In the end, that really is what is most important to me.

Here are some recent photos. We decided to go out today and take some family (self) photos on a cold and windy (very windy) day and thankfully had a few successes which I'll share. There are others from a recent visit to the pumpkin patch as well. Enjoy!

so much love for these boys

2011-09-14T21:28:00.002-05:00

Fun with grandpa

2011-08-30T19:06:00.000-05:00

Sawyer at 15 days of life

2011-08-23T17:20:00.000-05:00

Photography by http://www.jolenereedphotography.com/

time flies!

2011-08-10T13:44:00.001-05:00

I can hardly believe that Sawyer is almost 4 weeks old. This Friday he will be 4 weeks old, to be exact. Here are some photos...one from each week to show how much he's changed. I still can't believe he's here (and how much he looks like Carter did at the respective ages)! We love him so much and are so thankful he is a part of our lives.

One week old and even smaller than when we brought him home from the hospital (at his lowest, he was near 5lbs) - at 1 week, he is pretty fussy...still trying to figure out his dislike of milk, but hey his skin looks awesome still! Oh and he still has all of the hair he was born with, even the fuzz on his tiny shoulders.

Two weeks old and plumping up quite nicely - at 2 weeks, his skin has been peeling but hasn't erupted with baby acne just yet. He's much happier but very alert and doesn't nap after nursing as a newborn typically does. At this point, we've learned that he does a lot better with soy formula as a supplementation than regular.

Three weeks old and starting to coo at us (typically just before spitting up, hehe) - at 3 weeks, his skin has mostly stopped peeling but is now broken out with baby acne and he's quickly started to lose hair on top! This week he is very aware of people and things; for example, his brother...mainly his brother. He also seems to be aware of the ceiling fans and sort of has love eyes for them.

Welcome little one

2011-07-27T16:59:00.001-05:00

Sawyer Adams arrived on Friday, July 15 at 10:57 a.m. and was 6 lbs 4 oz and 19-3/4 inches long. We are all doing really well and have been thankful for the help of family and friends. Carter has been the best big brother and such a great help to me.

All photos taken by my very talented friend Allison Maass

38 weeks

2011-07-10T22:27:00.000-05:00

Not a spectacular photo, but here it is...the belly at 38 weeks + 5 minutes. Since we are going in on Thursday of this week, on 39 weeks 0 days, and having my membranes stripped, these might be two of the last photos I have of me with this baby belly.

Here's a photo from today, so 38 weeks 3 days, when we went out to brunch at Pescara. (Also taken with my phone, so not great quality, sorry!)

I'm feeling pretty good these days, and both nervous and excited for Sawyer to arrive. Andrew's mom is here to help with Carter so hopefully she'll still be here when Sawyer decides to join us, especially with a little help from my doctor. She'll head out of town on Tuesday of next week and then Andrew's dad will arrive a few days later to stay for about a week. I'm really thankful for the company and the help they've been providing, that's for sure!

36 weeks!

2011-06-23T15:15:00.000-05:00

Technically, these updates are from my visit yesterday, when I was 35 weeks 6 days, but it's the best I've got!

Things are actually looking better than a few weeks ago, so I thought I'd share with everyone.

My blood pressure has gone back down to a reasonable number (120/80); one that is high for me but more normal for the average pregnant woman. The doctors seem less and less concerned over this now, thankfully.

My weight seems to be topping off again, since now being at 36 weeks, I am unable to eat as much as I was earlier, even with more reflux medicines. Therefore, I'm not expecting to gain a lot over the next few days/weeks and trying not to worry when I see the increases of 0.1kg in one week's time. I think my total so far this pregnancy is around 10.5-11 lbs.

Sawyer is measuring really well and was very clearly practicing breathing when we saw him yesterday on ultrasound. His little diaphragm was going crazy!

I was checked and am dilated to 1 cm. Could mean nothing or it could mean progress...either way, I'm excited.

I'm having contractions now and they've picked up over the last 3-4 days. They wake me up at night (painfully) and stop me while I'm out trying to shop. Today, I had several over the course of about 45 minutes which were pretty painful and somewhat regular (every 5-10 minutes, I'd have one), but then they stopped with the exception of a few random ones that were not nearly as painful or obvious. The poor people in Walmart probably thought I was trying to buy last minute things during labor from the way they'd hit me and how fast I'd stop!

That's about everything! I'm hoping Sawyer decides to hang tight a little longer (maybe at least as long as Carter - who, if this were him, would be born this Saturday) so my doctor can get back to town mid-next week at least! And sorry for no up-to-date belly photos...the most recent one I have was taken on my phone so not super great quality, and it's from Father's Day (so I was 35 weeks 3 days). That'll have to suffice for now!

baby shower time

2011-05-30T22:20:00.000-05:00

This past weekend, two of my dear friends threw me a beautiful Southern style baby shower that was just amazing. I wasn't able to take photos during the actual shower, obviously, but I did manage to get a lot of the "before" shots plus a few borrowed photos from one of the hostesses. Thanks so much to all my friends that were able to make it! I loved seeing you all there and truly appreciate your generosity. What a fun day!

Loved the sweet decorations everywhere!

Loved these cute pennant banners

Cute little "words of encouragement" center complete with handmade onesies

Mmm, those are my chocolates!

fun game which I totally failed at playing!

I loved all the cute colors

Delicious cashew chicken salad and curry chicken salad croissant sandwiches

Yummy greek pasta salad

Finger lickin' bbq sauce, YUM

Beautiful fruit bowl

My most favoritest jelly beans

Loved these "drinking jars"

The sweets table

Cutest.diaper.cake.EVER (helps to have the cutest shoes EVER on top!)

I was excited to win these babies!

Sweet Alessandra

Kristen and Halle

We crack ourselves up!

Love you Maggie!

Krista, myself, and Deola

Thanks to my two sweet friends, Krista and Deola, for throwing me the best baby shower for baby Sawyer! I was blown away by all the work they put into this party and by how beautiful everything was. I am such a lucky girl!

Best buddies

2011-05-27T21:17:00.000-05:00

Carter loves this sweet girl. So do I.

Blossoms!

2011-05-27T17:19:00.000-05:00

Updates

2011-05-25T23:12:00.000-05:00

Just had the first of my "every-2-weeks" appointments, and apparently this was likely my last. From what I gathered today at my appointment (I am 31 weeks 6 days pregnant today), I am now going to be watched more closely (read: weekly) for a few reasons.

1: I had HELLP syndrome with Carter, which is why he was a preeemie, born during week 35. Obviously my doctor is on the lookout for any signs of higher blood pressure as well as other cues in my blood work (liver enzyme changes, creatinine changes, platelet count changes). Thankfully my blood pressure is still considered normal, at 120/80, but it is definitely a bit of a jump from last appointment and this is starting to follow a trend.

2: Despite the extra gross anatomy scan to check on Sawyer's growth/measurements at my last appointment, 2 weeks ago, and the positive things seen there (he measured right where he should), my weight gain is still of increasing concern. Since the last appointment 2 weeks back, I managed to gain only one half of a pound. This puts me at a total weight gain of 7.48 lbs since this pregnancy began. Not lookin' so hot. Unfortunately this was with an increased effort on my part to eat all.the.time in small meals, as much as I could possibly stand (and sometimes more than I could stand, unfortunately).

3: I measured somewhere between 29 and 30 weeks today. Not so great since I'm 32 weeks in oh... about 1 hour. This could definitely be human error, but the #4 that follows makes this seem more likely to be correct....

4: Since I measured smaller than I should, added with my lack of weight gain, my doctor decided to take a peek and do amniotic fluid measurements and also take a look at the umbilicus to make sure all was okay. I don't even remember what she said about the umbilical cord (and blood flow from placenta to the baby, etc), because she then mentioned that my fluid was on the low side. Not "low" enough yet to go on bed rest/start steroids for baby's lungs/talk about induction, but right at borderline. I was told to drink as many fluids as possible for the week, and then she'll recheck next week. She also mentioned that this could easily fluxuate and to not worry, but hey, I'm a worrier.

Since there was no mention of passing me on to high risk/maternal fetal medicine and no talk of bed rest or steroid shots, I feel pretty okay about this for the time being. I don't know what next week's super-early-in-the-morning-appointment will bring but I am praying that Sawyer will be safe either inside or out, whichever is better for him. I had Carter early and wasn't so completely devastated by his little wrinkly legs or the nasogastric tube which he needed for feeding. I can do this again if I have to, but I'm hoping it won't be necessary.

Please keep us in your thoughts if you will!

29 weeks and Mother's Day!

2011-05-14T21:15:00.000-05:00

I'm a little bit behind on these posts {sorry} but here's a photo of me at 29 weeks 3 days. I'll try my best to catch up!

This past week, I had an appointment and then a gross anatomy scan to check on Sawyer's growth. Everything turned out just fine thankfully, and I'm looking forward to going in again in a week and a half to make sure we're still doing well!

Carter and Andrew did a fabulous job helping me celebrate Mother's Day this year! Carter made me a pretty bouquet of flowers; the two of them made me a delicious breakfast in bed; we had a yummy dinner out that night; and Carter gave me a sweet present, a new+pink+squishy hairbrush (his idea). He's such a sweetheart!

28 weeks

2011-05-03T16:38:00.000-05:00

Here I am at 28 weeks. Just so I remember later how this pregnancy went (since I've neglected to really post any actual stats so far), at 28 weeks:

I've gained 6.1 pounds to date.

I am completely and thoroughly happy to finally be pregnant again and not yet freaked out about actually having to push this baby out!

I still have low blood pressure (YAY) and I definitely do not have diabetes!

I no longer get sick when I eat; however, I don't have much of an appetite, if any.

I cannot for the life of me figure out what I should pack in my diaper bag. I've got...2 diapers, a few wipes and a changing pad so far. What am I missing? No seriously, I don't remember...

I'm very excited for my upcoming shower! And, since I had Carter about 3 weeks after my shower, this might push me to start really thinking about logistics of getting a car seat insalled, what to pack for the hospital, meals I should be preparing now and freezing, etc.

I am anemic. Sigh.

I am having trouble with reflux and some calf leg cramps.

I'm struggling to sleep at night and am often worn out by the afternoon (I blame the anemia).

I'm convinced my weight gain is going to my (previously very oddly thin) ankles. Hopefully this trend will continue only until they look about normal size and then stop!

I've learned that, so far, Sawyer is a very kind little baby. He kicks hard, don't get me wrong, but it isn't nearly as often that he tucks his bootie up into my right rib cage and hides there for long periods of time as was the case with Carter.

It's been cold here lately (and even snow-flurrying)...this is what we do when we're bored!

Carter has decorated no less than 6 cards in less than 1 week!

My sewing machine has finally emerged from under the piles of clothes/baby stuff I've tucked away in my closet recently. I've now made 2 changing pads (the turquoise vine print/terry cloth) and one very snuggly chocolate brown blanket for baby Sawyer.

27 weeks 3 days

2011-04-24T12:52:00.000-05:00

Extra funness

2011-04-20T13:35:00.002-05:00

I love taking photos. I love taking photos while wearing my beautiful new neckstrap even more. Thanks to a super talented lady in Poland for making this one for me. I'm in LOVE.

Easter bunny visit

2011-04-20T13:30:00.000-05:00

It was snowy yesterday, and we had no plans for the day, so I took Carter to go have a chat with the Easter Bunny at the mall. While there, we even managed some shopping for daddy and a little date lunch for the two of us, complete with play time at the Thomas Table. Carter was in heaven. He says "that Easter Bunny was a nice guy. A cutie."

"He's a cutie"

Right before meeting the Easter Bunny, we perfected our smile

Fun times at the Thomas Table

My most favorite picture of Carter of late

Digesting or pondering...

We (by that, I mean Carter) call this game "sippy water"

My silly boy

Someone decided it'd be funny to attack me with that straw!

Yuck, snow...

Recent artwork by the little man

2011-04-20T13:22:00.000-05:00

I just love how Carter's drawings have suddenly started looking more like people. He even adds eyebrows now and appropriate hair for the person he is drawing. So sweet!

25 weeks 6 days

2011-04-13T13:26:00.000-05:00

Less than 100 days left to go!

First day at Zollman Zoo - 2011

2011-04-13T13:17:00.000-05:00

On our first trip to the local zoo with friends

Taken by Krista

the extra cute, Ellie

Bisola's cute friend, Samantha

Carter's only mildly frightened by turkeys

Terrified of all the boxelder bugs on the wall behind him but smiling anyway!

sweet friends feeding friendly deer

Carter's fave part of the whole zoo

Carter: "Do you have tickets?"

We had the best time! Nothing better than a picnic and a playdate at the zoo with good friends on a warm, sunny day!

A walk by the river

2011-04-12T16:58:00.000-05:00

Carter giving me the stink eye

First day at Sand Castle Park

2011-04-12T16:51:00.000-05:00

FIRST ever tire swinging!

FIRST time officially swinging by himself!

freshly picked from etsy

2011-04-08T16:12:00.000-05:00

source: dollmeat on etsy

So excited for this gorgeous new neckstrap to make it's way to the US and around my neck! I'm in love with the colors and the fact it isn't all like "hey I'm a Nikon" too!

check out dollmeat's shop on etsy - another favorite is the lipstick leaves print!

24 weeks!

2011-04-04T09:37:00.001-05:00

First walk of Spring 2011

2011-03-20T23:27:00.000-05:00

hello baby belly

2011-03-20T17:30:00.000-05:00

Goodbye winter

2011-03-16T13:11:00.000-05:00

Baby #2 now has a name

2011-03-15T22:27:00.000-05:00

We've been going back and forth about a name for this baby boy for a few weeks, and after months of research on my part, we've finally decided on what we think is a great name for this little one!

Sawyer Adams Landstrom

Sawyer - we love the name
Adams - it's a shared middle name for both my dad and my granddad

fave finds today

2011-03-15T17:06:00.000-05:00

yummy snacks for Carter

very yummy snack for me

cute little bin to organize baby's dresser drawers

sweet little newborn onesies

21 weeks!

2011-03-13T15:09:00.000-05:00

At 21-1/2 weeks, this baby boy is kicking super strong, especially when I have sweets or get my heart rate up. My carpal tunnel has made its appearance as well as my stress fracture pain in both feet, like last time. Otherwise, we are doing great and just trying to decide on a name for this little boy. Honestly, I've already decided but have to wait for an official OK from Andrew...which might take awhile since all he does is study, work, and sleep lately. Maybe in the coming weeks, I'll be able to finally post what we've decided but for now I'll keep quiet!

I ♥ him

2011-03-09T14:38:00.001-06:00

Experiments with my new camera

2011-03-04T16:49:00.001-06:00

Did I just make you hungry? You're welcome!

20 weeks

2011-03-04T16:09:00.000-06:00

20 weeks!

Finally we've made it to 20 weeks and I'm definitely showing! Carter is very excited about his baby brother and talks to him a lot now. Andrew and Carter have both felt the baby kick now, which is super exciting as well.

And in other news, we've welcomed my new camera to our family! I'm loving it and trying very hard to figure it all out. Thankfully Carter is a very good model and loves playing around in front of it for me to figure out all of these different settings and options. I'm also thankful for a good friend who is helping me along the way, very patiently teaching me what she knows. It's a huge help! I'll post some of those pics later!

The beginning of something...fun!

2011-02-28T15:29:00.001-06:00

Introducing...

The first half of the newest member of my little camera family: AF-S DX Nikkor 35mm f/1.8G lens

I was so excited, I had to capture the "opening" of even the box on film. Not sure what that says about what gets me going but either way, you can tell I love taking photos, yes?

I made the decision this past week to seriously hunt down and purchase the camera (Nikon D40) and lens (above) I've been dreaming about for a few years now. This was, of course, contingent upon me selling my beloved piccolo to fund this splurge, and when, last week, my piccolo sold for *almost* enough money, I decided to just go for it! I'd love to get this camera somewhat figured out by the time summer arrives and baby boy #2 is here.

Now, just waiting for a UV filter to arrive as well as the camera (which sadly will arrive last) and I'll be good to go. In the meantime, I've already made a super fun ruffle-y camera strap cover to keep my neck from getting all scratchy and am in the process of making myself a camera bag. That project will hold me over until the next half arrives I believe.

I love this boy!

2011-02-21T16:01:00.001-06:00

It's a ...

2011-02-17T21:01:00.000-06:00

... boy!

Unbelievable, I know, but very obvious on ultrasound, Andrew and I are expecting a little boy sometime in July (due date is still the 21st). He's a very active little guy, dancing around and kicking during our visit today and even, dare I say, messing with his boy parts (can't believe I watched it happen...). Carter is excited but confused since he had his heart set on a little sister, but we're hoping he won't mind as the time gets closer. He'll be the best big brother, we already know, and we are very excited for this new little one to join our family. Now, to find a name...

Here are some of the ultrasound photos from today:

new to me

2011-02-09T15:04:00.000-06:00

I love orange.

I love pockets.

I love StorkSak.

I love cool diaper bags.

I'm so excited to see this arrive!

16 weeks!

2011-02-06T17:06:00.000-06:00

16 weeks pregnant and celebrating Carter's 4th birthday this week...what could be better? Life is good.

Gender poll for baby Landstrom #2

2011-02-03T10:53:00.001-06:00

Since we have two weeks until we have our big ultrasound and find out the gender of baby #2, I have put a gender poll on the right side of my blog to see what you all think the baby will be. Please vote!

We'll announce on February 17th in the evening.

15 weeks!

2011-02-01T11:53:00.000-06:00

So, I'm definitely thinking I "popped out" this week (as my doctor calls it).

I also felt the baby moving this week for the first time, and, after dismissing what was going on for a few evenings, I've decided that the first "real" day I felt him/her move was on Sunday, January 30, when I was 15 weeks 3 days. How exciting and reassuring. I've been a ball of stress this pregnancy (which is understandable given what we've been through)...hopefully this will give me some peace until I go back in when we return to Rochester. It might help a bit if Andrew hadn't questioned me for the first few days either saying "it's just gas (haha)" or "are you really sure?" Silly man.

"Dropsy" is in full force around here and I also don't apparently know my own strength. I've so far managed to not only break a glass or two (or three or four...ahem), but also a cabinet door...right off the hinge, and a nice warm bowl full of oatmeal that shattered into a million and a half pieces. Oh my!

Lastly, I can't believe we have less than 2 weeks left here. It almost feels like we are settled and could stay. I'm not saying I'd like the nasty hot summers (especially pregnant), but I do know that I prefer this over snow and bitter cold any day.

I am looking forward to returning home, to our warm house, to my little Volvo, to our normal routine and friends.

Desert Botanical Gardens - Phoenix

2011-01-30T21:46:00.000-06:00

Musical Instrument Museum in Scottsdale

2011-01-30T21:34:00.000-06:00

Andrew's cousin, Que, flew into town Friday evening for a weekend visit with us in Scottsdale. On Saturday, we spent the morning at the Musical Instrument Museum, lunch at Desert Ridge Mall, and then her and I went to see No Strings Attached (highly recommend) that afternoon. We went to Habanero's for dinner for some delicious Mexican food. It was a wonderful and very sunny day!

Que, Carter, and me

Andrew was able to come sight-see with us!

Carter liked the museum, but especially loved the Experience Room where he could play instruments himself.

Carter can't get enough of Miss Que

So happy to make some noise!

Carter-sized instrument!

14 weeks - photo

2011-01-26T18:53:00.000-06:00

Happy to say tomorrow I'll be 15 weeks! Of course, I'm a little slow in posting my 14 week photo, but this was taken a week ago on the first day of week 14, so that counts for something, right?

I'm starting to feel like I'm showing now, not just looking chubby, thank goodness! I'm more consistently feeling well in the morning which is great and have got more energy to play with Carter and craft. Cleaning on the other hand...

Sorry for the poor quality of the photo...my phone camera plus bad light plus black and white...oh well!

Missing grandma and grandpa already

2011-01-19T11:59:00.000-06:00

We had so much fun having a "snack" picnic at the Railroad park with grandma (Tien) and grandpa (Paul)

Carter just loves this train

Grandma (Tien) with Carter on the "tiny" train

Paul and Tien celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary while here, so Tien and I took a drive to Sprinkles for some special cupcakes to celebrate!

Top left: banana with vanilla frosting; vanilla
Bottom left to right: mocha; german chocolate; dark chocolate

Paul and Tien flew into town last Friday evening late and just flew back to NC this morning. We already are lonely and miss them very much. It's hard being in a new place by yourself with a little one for so long but we do like it here in Scottsdale, especially the warm weather and sun.

The night grandma and grandpa flew into town, Carter could not stand to go to sleep, so at 9:40ish, when I got the (early) call from them that they had arrived in Phoenix, I packed a PJ-wearing Carter up into the car and drove to get them. I don't think he fell asleep that night before 1 a.m.

We went to the Railroad park the next day to show grandma and grandpa all the fun rides and slides that Carter loves there and had a great time. It wasn't quite as warm that day but the sun felt nice and we had so much fun.

Since that first day, we've been running around town with Andrew and Carter (over the weekend), eating lots of yummy foods and treats, and going to the pool and hot tub every late afternoon before Carter's nap. Anytime grandpa is around, Carter has to get his fill of monster truck videos (on YouTube) and shows on the tv, so plenty of that also took place.

We loved having them here and wish they could have stayed right on until the end! Thanks Paul and Tien for coming to visit and for the excuse to eat out more too!

Phoenix and Scottsdale

2011-01-14T17:38:00.000-06:00

12 week photo

2011-01-12T18:47:00.000-06:00

I'm 12 weeks 6 days today!

11 weeks!

2011-01-06T15:11:00.000-06:00

Well, in the midst of (temporarily) moving to Scottsdale, AZ, I've managed to not blog during the actual 11th week. But fear not, I did manage to get a photo of myself on....the very last day of week 11.

*At this point, I am not so tired as I was and can manage to stay awake all day if I must. I am not sleeping well at night, but that could be a result of changing to a much firmer bed, pillows like rocks, loud neighbors upstairs with 2-3 large barking dogs.
*I am able to eat most of a meal again, although not like I was before getting pregnant, so if I had to guess, I would bet that I'm gaining a teeny bit of weight back from the 4 pounds I lost in the first 2 and a half months.
*I am now in maternity pants all the time and beginning to actually be uncomfortable in even those because of where the baby is right now. I'd much prefer some fleece pants or a jersey skirt but that wouldn't look so good going out in public likely. I have 2 maternity tops which I wear along with all of my other slightly longer tops from before.
*I have no aversion to raw meat this time (so far) which is great as I tend to do all of the cooking here since Andrew isn't normally home to go out for dinner with us and I sort of feel guilty for all of the fast food/drive thru I had the first two months. Chick-Fil-A might be the only exception so far.
*I'm back to working out daily, now with Sara every night at the apartment's gym. I'm pretty impressed with myself honestly...it'd be so easy to just slack off (like last time) and have peppermint ice cream instead.

And now on to week 12! I am so thankful to have made it this far and pray that nothing changes in the coming weeks until I get home to have my big ultrasound and see the baby (boy or girl??) again. I cannot wait to find out and then start looking into (and arguing about) names!

10 weeks!

2010-12-28T10:33:00.001-06:00

10 weeks 5 days

We just had our first appointment with a doctor over in OB and everything looked great. I'll be going in again on Thursday for another scan and more blood work. After that, the next time I'll see the baby will be the big anatomy scan next February!

Baby #2: 10 weeks 4 days - measured at 11 weeks 1 day and strong heartbeat of 158bpm

Merry Christmas from our family to yours

2010-12-25T10:20:00.002-06:00

In between naps and odd cravings/binges

2010-12-22T16:04:00.003-06:00

I make these:

Rose red wool felt poppy necklace with glossy brown button centers; beige-ish satin ribbon to tie; completely handsewn

Periwinkle blue wool felt poppy necklace with pearlescent cream button centers; beige-ish satin ribbon to tie; completely handsewn

Navy wool felt poppy necklace with glossy brown button centers; beige-ish satin ribbon to tie; completely handsewn

Itty bitty bows for women or children - these are heathered purple wool felt, completely handsewn

Lots more on the way since this wool felt (in many cute new colors), needle and embroidery floss, alligator clips, scissors, and various satin ribbons will be all I'll be bringing with me to Arizona to work on while we are away for a bit.

There's definitely something going on in there...

2010-12-14T13:01:00.000-06:00

Might just be bloating, but I hear you show way earlier with each later pregnancy, and since I'm 9 weeks this Thursday, I figure I'll start with the photos for my family. Here I am, 8 weeks 5 days pregnant with baby #2 (or as we call him/her, "Baby10").

What a great birthday present! I could do without the sometimes-appearing-especially-when-taking-photos double chin, thicker arms (since I'm not supposed to be doing weight lifting lately), and itty bit of lovehandle/muffin top, but I'm excited anyway!

What's going on this week:
*I gag every single time I brush my teeth, someone please save me.
*I nap every afternoon so that I don't turn into a huge grump and/or pass out on the couch at 5:30 for the evening.
*I have trouble deciding what to eat because I mostly just don't want anything at all.
*I get that nagging nausea that crops up when I am starving (probably because I never want to eat anything). The one when you feel like you might just die you are so nauseas and must eat a granola bar/poptart immediately. It's lovely.
*I'm still on my progesterone for a few days and quite frankly am terrified to stop using it.
*I crave salty stuff, mainly because when I feel sick, it makes me feel better. At any given point, you can probably find 6 different types chips in my house.

Introducing...

2010-12-03T21:06:00.000-06:00

The newest little addition to our family, hopefully arriving July 21, 2011.

6 weeks 4 days - baby measured to date exactly and hb was 115 bpm

7 weeks 1 day - baby is 11 mm CtoR and hb was 134 bpm

We are so blessed! Thanks to everyone for all of the prayers over the past two years. We truly appreciate all of the kind thoughts sent our way.

We are so thankful

2010-11-29T17:16:00.000-06:00

Hope everyone had a lovely Thanksgiving Day this year! We definitely had an out of the ordinary day. My dad was in town until Wednesday morning, before flying off to Colorado to see my sister and her husband, Andrew, and then out of the blue, I came down with a terrible cold. Which later I found out was Strep. So, on Thanksgiving Day, rather than going to a good friend's house and bringing my delicious pecan pie and green bean casserole (among other things, our list just kept growing every time I went shopping somehow), I ended up staying in bed all day with a terrible sore throat and nausea while Andrew and Carter bundled up and ran to the grocery store for some very last minute shopping for Thanksgiving dinner ingredients.

I'm very proud of Andrew for managing all of that by himself. My husband who never really cooks, really. He manages to bake (and sometimes burn) those cheap Totinos (man-pizza) pizzas for himself and Carter, but otherwise, he stays clear of the kitchen. His only slip was to buy 2 turkey breasts thinking that wasn't enough meat for the 3 of us. Two turkey breasts for THREE, no two and a half people...not sure where he got that math worked out but needless to say, there is a delicious cooked turkey breast sliced up in our freezer for later.

Here are some of the pictures from the day. And yes, it did take me this long to fully recover. I am now back to my usual (quirky) eating/drinking of Diet Mtn Dew and getting tired of this weather already. I guess I am ready to head to Scottsdale in a few weeks after all.

My insanely delicious pecan pie, which we are still finishing up

very pleased with his cooking skills

This boy loves some stuffing

Carter didn't like the "chicken" with the green stuff...

Herb roasted turkey breast, stuffing, yummy parmesan mashed potatoes with panko bread crumbs

Family photos (informal)

2010-11-23T16:54:00.000-06:00

More to come, once we've sent out our Christmas cards, that is. For now, here are some informal ones we took this morning in the frigid temps! At least here we had our coats on! Enjoy!

Fun while grandpa visits!

2010-11-23T15:21:00.000-06:00

Craft Fair 2010

2010-11-07T13:13:00.000-06:00

This year's craft show was a complete success! I am so thankful that I was called this past Wednesday morning to be offered a table, even if it was very late notice to get ready. Thanks to everyone who came out, stopped by to say hello and to those who purchased an item to support me. I am so lucky.

Quick dinner idea

2010-11-02T14:48:00.002-05:00

I was in the grocery store (trip #1 of the day) this morning and spotted these yummy beans, Bush's Grillin' Beans - Black Bean Fiesta flavor. I quickly snatched them up and ran off to find some mexican cheese and tortillas. The end result?

Deliciousness, in less than 5 minutes (longer depending on the number of quesadillas you make, of course)!

ooey gooey yumminess

Black Bean Quesadillas

Ingredients:

1 can of Bush's Grillin' Beans Black Bean Fiesta
a little mexican cheese (or any cheese will work, I had a random slice of velveeta in there too)
tortillas
butter

Butter one side of each of your tortillas. Heat a skillet over med-hi heat and throw in a tortilla, butter side down. Top with a few spoonfuls of the beans (you can drain off some of the juice if you want...they will be a bit messy if not, like mine). Sprinkle with cheese. Layer with other tortilla, butter side up, and press down. Flip and brown other side; repeat as necessary until both sides are browned.

Cut with pizza cutter on cutting board and serve with some salsa! Yum!

Halloween festivities!

2010-11-02T14:40:00.000-05:00

mummy dogs for dinner

caramel apples (chocolate sprinkles and apple pie) for dessert

chocolate pretzel spiderwebs with sprinkles

mushy rotten dinosaur pumpkin, yuck!

Our little happy family on Halloween!

Beth kindly joined us for some fun trick-or-treating

Out trick-or-treating with Beth and Jen

Carter's loot!

Avery turns 1

2010-10-30T14:04:00.000-05:00

Here's a sneak peak at some of the photos I took of Avery's 1st birthday party! Gosh, we had such a fun time and Cassi did such a great job of decorating for her special day! She was just precious in her cute ruffle-bottom onesie and pink/brown fluffly tutu! A fun time was had by all!

r a n d o m thoughts

2010-10-27T16:25:00.003-05:00

First, I love Starfall.com for Carter. It's just awesome! I wish I had gone to that site before I bought Carter all the Letter Factory DVDs at Target!

Second, I'm feeling more hopeful today, which, if you know me well, you know this doens't happen often, so that makes today a good day. Crossing fingers...legs...toes...

Third, and last, I realize I have a problem. Over the course of the last couple months, my inner bookworm has taken over. I purchase books right and left, compulsively, and have bought more than I can keep up with. I can't remember who I've borrowed them out to and have nowhere left on our huge bookshelves to even store them. It's a problem...especially if we move to a certain big city in a few years and I'm forced to part with them. I think I'd rather let go of furniture, honestly. Or clothes. Maybe my car.

Here's a small sampling of what I've bought and some that I have in my queue to read...

Next on my list to read, purchased in London

Just started this one but wondering if I've already read it...does this happen to anyone else?

Most-of-the-way through and struggling a bit to finish, purchased in London

Further down on my list to read

Read - almost-perfect conclusion to an amazing trilogy

Rainy day project

2010-10-25T23:11:00.001-05:00

a special thank you note for daddy

this reads:

daddy, thank you for building the working trucks! thank you. i love you. i want you to stay all day to make me feel happy. love, carter

this is a birthday cake, complete with candles and pink sprinkles

pumpkin carving time!

2010-10-24T16:55:00.000-05:00

Chicken Enchiladas Verdes

2010-10-08T20:19:00.000-05:00

I tried out a new recipe tonight from Real Simple Magazine and the whole family loved it. I loved that it was easy to put together and it was really delicious. I highly suggest this as an alternative to your typical enchilada recipe.

Chicken Enchiladas Verdes

Ingredients

• 2 bone-in chicken breasts (1 1/2 to 2 pounds total) (I used chicken breasts (no bone) that I boiled and then shredded)

• 1 16-ounce jar mild salsa verde (I used a 15-oz jar from Trader Joe's, yum!)

• 2 cups fresh cilantro sprigs, plus more for serving

• 1 cup sour cream, plus more for serving

• 1 1/2 cups frozen corn, thawed (I used half of a can of corn, drained)
• 8 ounces Muenster or Monterey Jack cheese, grated (about 2 cups)

• kosher salt and black pepper

• 8 6-inch flour tortillas

• rice, for serving

Directions

1. Heat oven to 400° F. Place the chicken in a medium pot, add enough water to cover, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer until cooked through, 15 to 20 minutes; remove from pot and let cool. When cool enough to handle, shred the chicken, discarding the skin and bones; place the meat in a large bowl.

2. Meanwhile, in a blender, puree the salsa, cilantro, and ½ cup of the sour cream until smooth. Transfer to a small saucepan and simmer until slightly thickened, 10 to 12 minutes. Stir in the remaining ½ cup sour cream.

3. To the chicken, add the corn, ½ cup of the sauce, 1 cup of the cheese, and ½ teaspoon each salt and pepper and toss to combine.

4. Spread 1 cup of the remaining sauce in a 9-by-13-inch baking dish. Roll the chicken mixture in the tortillas (about ½ cup per tortilla) and place seam-side down in the dish. Top with the remaining sauce and cheese. Bake until bubbling and beginning to brown, 15 to 20 minutes. Serve with cilantro, sour cream, and rice, if desired.

Hope you'll be inspired to try this dish!

Found it!

2010-10-06T13:32:00.000-05:00

My creativity and motivation to make, well, anything. It's back, thank goodness! Here are some of the things I've made recently. Some are orders and others haven't been claimed yet. Hope you like them!

Last day of September

2010-10-01T07:53:00.000-05:00

Europe trip 2010

2010-09-29T20:55:00.000-05:00

best brownies ever

2010-09-29T17:55:00.001-05:00

So last night, I made a most-delicious batch of brownies to indulge in {and then work off at a later date} and I thought I'd share my recipe on here. Not that anyone reads my blog anymore, right? Anyone? Anyone? Bueller?

Here goes:

1 box of Ghirardelli Double Chocolate brownies {+ one egg, a little oil and water}
1 container of cream cheese frosting {naturally, you could make your own, but why when it's just so good and cheap and easy?}
8 or so Kit Kat bars {or Fun size Heath bars, MMs, PB cups, or really anything yummy}

Make brownies according to package directions. Let brownies cool to room temperature. Meanwhile, go ahead and open frosting and eat a couple spoonfuls. And then lick the brownie batter bowl too.

Crush or chop candies. Try to resist eating them all before you can get them on the brownies.

Stir frosting {a million times} til it's spreadable {or better yet, buy the whipped kind and you can skip this step}. I was really trying to work out my forearm muscles here.

Drop frosting in big blobs all over the surface of the brownies and spread carefully with knife. Sprinkle candy pieces over frosting and then put the pan in the fridge to get nice a chilly.

After about 10 minutes or so, cut brownies into squares and then put back in fridge. Store in fridge to keep cool. Enjoy! And maybe don't binge eat them like I do. That'd probably be for the best.

PS: I would have taken photos but my fingers were covered in frosting, I had chocolate on my face and well, quite frankly, almost all of the brownies are already missing. Maybe next time!

PSS: After you eat all these brownies, may I suggest a most-awesome yoga workout? This is my favorite! You're welcome.

Officially {and finally} a 3rd year

2010-09-29T17:03:00.000-05:00

After a long 6+ year wait, Andrew has started taking call (right now for Family Med L+D/OB), and Carter and I are managing pretty well. I do happen to love having a bed to myself (shhh) and not having to cook a big meal for dinner, so it works out for all parties. And maybe one of these days I'll get around to posting some photos from our Europe trip. But I don't want to get ahead of myself here...I said maybe.

In the meantime, I'm crocheting hats, scarves, and cowls for Truly...Boutique in the cities and working on hat orders for Etsy. Carter is having a great time at preschool, in swimming lessons and playing with friends at Moppets. Hope everyone is doing well!

CROP Hunger Walk

2010-09-24T12:57:00.001-05:00

Sorry to have been the absent blogger lately...not much feeling into it. I did, however, want to explain the little widget to the lfeft of my blog page for CROP walk. I'll be walking again this year, on October 3, with a group from my church. I'd love donations for support if you're able and interested in helping out!

Many thanks!

sneaky...

2010-07-22T16:52:00.000-05:00

Some little animal picked my cilantro plant clean! Not one little leaf left behind. Sneaky.

Meanwhile, my basil is growing out of control. If you're in need of some, you know where to find me!

fun and stuff

2010-07-21T23:33:00.000-05:00

Carter and I had a blast in Colorado! We even got some sun and played in the pool, lots. But more on that later...I have to be in the mood to write and actually post pictures to blogger. Yuck-o.

Now, yumm-o. This recipe for Make Ahead Muffin Melts looks amazing! I love some hard-boiled eggs and bacon and cheese and mustard mmmm....I can always count on The Pioneer Woman to cheer me up and distract me from the crappy stuff in life. Now I just need to boil some eggs and fry some bacon!

Tomorrow...

2010-07-13T12:22:00.000-05:00

Tomorrow, Carter and I are driving to the cities, parking the car, hopping on a plane and flying to Colorado! I am so excited! And the flight should be easy since Carter is the expert traveler! He's amazing on planes, so I'm never afraid to fly with him alone. I just dread carrying his big car seat, our big bag, carry ons and his hand while running to the shuttle and into the airport. After that it's all a piece of cake!

While there, we are staying with my sister, Adrienne, and her husband, Andrew in Longmont. Let's just say we plan to do a LOT of swimming while there. It will be in the 90's every day we will be there and she has a pool. We're also hoping to drive down over the weekend to visit Andrew's mom's huge family in Denver. I can NOT wait! So many names and faces to remember and I won't have Andrew there to help me get it all straight.

Now..to pack and plan and make lists and get everything finished very last minute. Wish us luck!

And now, pictures from our first trip to Colorado

Carter is a huge fan of Boulder. So am I.

Every time I watch Make It Or Break It and see this promenade, I wish I could be there!

Hope we can go back to this spot!

On my first trip with Carter to visit Adrienne and Andrew...snuggling up on the couch!

And now, pictures from our most recent visit, last Thanksgiving.

Michelle, (aunt) Angeline, (uncle) Austin, Uncle Peter, Me, Carter, Andrew, and Paul (Andrew's dad)

Some of the family that we're hoping to see in Denver, including Carter's Aunt Angeline and Uncle Austin (the little kiddos in the pic above)

They had the prettiest light scene for the holidays in downtown Denver

I'm so excited to go back!

grandpa and grandma visit

2010-07-07T14:46:00.001-05:00

we had a delicious dinner at Dos Amigos

we took lots of walks in the gorgeous weather

we played legos, lots of legos

we played lots of soccer and t-ball

we celebrated Andrew's thesis defense with his grad school friends

Congrats to my wonderful husband who works so hard and does so much! So proud of him for defending his PhD thesis! Medical school, here we come (again)!

we had sad goodbyes with the grandparents

see how much Carter looks like his grandpa? he even has his thick, wavy hair!

Pool play

2010-06-13T15:16:00.000-05:00

Grandpa visits!

2010-06-13T15:07:00.000-05:00

My dad came up to visit a few weeks back and we had a great time! While here, we went out to see (and photograph) the windmills south of town, and took a trip out to Lark Toys and the National Eagle Center in Wabasha, MN. Here are some of the photos we took while he was in town. I'm sure Carter probably had the most fun just hanging out with grandpa and a snack on the couch watching a little Wonder Pets.

Things I've made recently

2010-06-13T15:00:00.000-05:00

Made new baby quilts with super soft minky on the back! Just got some really cute brown minky and a new Alexander Henry print in very bright colors...have plans to make 2 more quilts like these when I get some time to work again!

So lucky

2010-06-03T16:48:00.000-05:00

I love this little boy so much it almost hurts. What a sweetheart I have. I am so incredibly blessed.

Such exciting news!

2010-05-11T14:19:00.001-05:00

{no babies guys, sorry!}

Stay with me here...

I just got word that one of my bags will be photographed and published in a book by the fabulous Laurie Wisbrun, mastermind behind this amazing Etsy shop, ScarletFig. You should check her stuff out...it's so pretty!

Here's the bag in question! I'm looking forward to seeing this book next fall! Hopefully my bag will make it past the editors' cuts! :) I know how that is...

Loves

2010-05-09T22:40:00.001-05:00

I love my friend Phil's music and after seeing him play live the other night and purchasing his CD, I highly recommend you check him out! Here's a link to a site where you can listen to his songs and then purchase if you like it!

photo credit: cdbaby.com

I love this apron from Anthropologie!

photo credit: anthropologie.com

And I love the gorgeous color of this Macbook sleeve from Ruby'sPlayground on Etsy...so spring-y!

photo credit: rubysplayground.etsy.com

spectacles

2010-05-01T16:58:00.000-05:00

Hurray for new glasses! And thank goodness for the trunk show today at Mayo. I met the guy representing OGi who led me to these two cute pairs!

I love me some turquoise

And these plastic frames called my name as well

Can't wait the three weeks until they get here!

A special thanks

2010-04-26T16:26:00.000-05:00

... to each of you who donated for March for Babies! The walk was fabulous aside from the dreary rain which kept up during most of the 2+ hours. I had fun getting some exercise, lots of fun snacks and meeting new friends along the way. One blister was a small price to pay for such a good time!

Thanks again!

my diet, sort of

2010-04-21T16:23:00.000-05:00

Just throw in some Diet Mountain Dew and my favorite salsa and there you have it!

credit

Loving this weather

2010-04-16T12:31:00.000-05:00

I have the sweetest child. And husband. Thanks to daddy for taking Carter out to fly his Cars kite. Carter was in heaven.

Zollman Zoo

2010-04-12T00:25:00.001-05:00

I took Carter on a little trip out to the zoo at Oxbow Park on Saturday and we had a blast! Here are a few of the photos I took of him having fun.

Trying to show off his new dragon toy from lunch

In love with the otters, as always

I love this cute little guy so much. He's just so stinking sweet!

new bag

2010-04-12T00:21:00.000-05:00

Just whipped this one up over the weekend! I love the pink and orange!

just got blogged

2010-04-08T15:38:00.000-05:00

Elisabeth over at DearWeekend just blogged about one of my bags! What a sweet thing to do, I feel so lucky! Here's the blog, go check it out!

mmm!

2010-04-08T13:24:00.000-05:00

Happy Grilled Cheese Month everyone!

Recipe for one amazing grilled cheese:
Slices of french bread loaf (or any other bread)
Light mayo
Trader Joe's Whole Grain Dijon Mustard
1 slice PepperJack cheese
1 slice Velveeta (or other cheese, like provolone)
Butter for "grilling"

Cut two slices of bread and coat one side of each with a thin layer of butter, or a LOT if you're like me and don't mind the calories butter brings.

On the other side of one piece of bread, slather on some light mayo and a dollop of the dijon (it's a little spicy, so if you're not a fan of the heat, don't use much).

Layer on 2 slices of cheese, any flavors work but I love the ones above best for melt-i-ness.

Yes, that's a word. I'm sure of it.

Now, close up your sandwich and toss it into a pan that's been warming up on Medium-ish heat.

Oops, I forgot to mention the pan warming up bit. Warm it up now if you haven't already and get that sandwich on the fire.

Toast til golden brown (or a bit burnt in my case) on both sides.

Cut with a sharp knife and enjoy the melty goodness.

Defenses

2010-04-07T16:00:00.000-05:00

Here's what we have going on in our house lately...

A very persistent robin who'd like nothing more than to fly right in and join us at dinner or breakfast or lunch or all of the above.

Around 7 a.m., each and every morning for the past 4 days, she has tried to make her way in by bouncing off of our window by the dining table. Almost non-stop, repetitively, with little squeaks as she bounces off the glass.

I'm starting to lose my mind over this.

So, Andrew made a little "scarecrow" of sorts in an attempt to keep her away. Well, unfortunately it didn't quite work, so this morning, I threw together a collection of sheets of paper, one complete with a "scary bird" drawing, and taped them around his on the window. Seems to have worked for the moment...maybe the colors freak her out?

I must say, I do feel a bit weird about this and worry what the neighbors might think. Well, no, honestly I don't care what my neighbors think. If it works, then it's a good solution.

Here's the set-up:

Some sort of "scary" bird thing (not really scary now that I look at it again...

Andrew's scarecrow thing...more like a hairy jack-o-lantern if you ask me...I love those eyebrows though!

More new fabrics

2010-04-05T11:02:00.000-05:00

They are so pretty! Now, just need to find some time to make new things!

like or no?

2010-03-30T18:01:00.001-05:00

I'm deciding if I like this:

But, it's a little too "fake sweet" for me...surprising considering that I can down a can of Diet Mtn Dew in about 5 minutes and love how it tastes.

Unlike the chai above, I am in LOVE with this:

A special thanks to Elise for the tip on this little snack! Not so low-fat but it's totally worth the calories! Nom nom!

New projects

2010-03-30T13:39:00.000-05:00

I'm so excited! My new book: One-Yard Wonders just arrived and I couldn't be more excited to try out a few of the patterns.

I'm especially excited because I have 8 new yards of fabric arriving tomorrow to make these cute things with and can't wait to get started! Now that I've almost caught up with LOST (2 episodes to watch during naptime today and I'm ready to start with the weekly Season 6 episodes that are left), I'll have plenty of time on my hands to do all the things I've been putting off!

exciting day!

2010-03-28T16:00:00.002-05:00

I just purchased a new twin bed for Carter! He's getting so tall so quickly and has already nearly outgrown his toddler bed. I'm so excited to get some linens for it and get it all set up for him. I think he'll be so excited for his new big bed!

too many cookies

2010-03-23T20:35:00.001-05:00

Sigh... I ~~hate~~ love this time of year!

March for Babies

2010-03-21T17:42:00.000-05:00

I'm excited to walk again this year for March for Babies for little Mariee. I've set up a page HERE where you can donate if you wish to this very important cause. Many thanks in advance!

Happenings

2010-03-17T22:31:00.003-05:00

A warning, this post dates back quite a bit. I'm so bad about updating often, so I thought I'd just do a big update of all the little (and big) things that have been going on around here.

{20 february 2010}

First, there was a Little Scientists morning that Andrew took Carter to. Here, they demonstrate how silly putty works:

On the ride home, Carter reading his Clifford Birthday Party book for the millionth time!

{27 february 2010}

Next, we had Andrew's family in town for a week. It was so great to have grandma and grandpa here with us. Carter especially loved waking up every morning knowing that they were here because, as he put it, he could "hear" them sleeping.

We played a bit in the snow. Note the beach/sand toys put to good use.

Carter was sad to see grandma go and then grandpa a few days later. He misses you guys!

{3 march 2010}

Back to the usual day-to-day with mommy...building houses, forts, you name it. And pretend-sleeping in them. Not for-real-sleeping, pretend-sleeping. Naturally.

Loving that dimple on his elbow. Carter sure knows how to snuggle!

{6 march 2010}

Another thing Carter knows? How to make a fish face. Yes, fish lips these are. Super fish lips. On a super silly little boy!

So proud of himself for making that funny face!

{7 march 2010}

Look what we made at preschool! Some sort of prehistoric-looking thing, complete with pieces of bush, tree, feather and a popsicle stick with a dinosaur glued on. Carter was so proud of this little number, we decided to take photos and video him talking about it. Just you wait, you won't want to miss that video!

Nice and close here, check the details. Oh, I forgot, it had a rock and a piece of bark too.

Also, on this day, we took our first walk of Spring, or rather the first walk according to daddy (don't tell him, but we actually went for a walk ourselves earlier that evening waiting for him to get home from work). Not to worry, I still took a few photos to document the occasion.

{13 march 2010}

And then, Beth turns, wait, how old? 24. Oh.my.gosh. I am old. Don't mind that Blake is making some crazy face in the corner of the photo.

Some of our new and awesome classmates

This is a shot of our whole group, plus a couple here or there who we added along the way. We had the best time and totally took over the laser tag area with a little work and determination. The little kids there for the birthday party didn't stand a chance, even with taking their vests off and sitting on them.

{14 march 2010}

More of the usual - Carter and mommy snuggling on a lazy weekend morning.

{17 march 2010}

All this leads up to today.

Today we met up with Andrew after work, just before sunset, and went for a walk downtown. We ventured along the river paths working our way around the Civic Center.

See that bruise on my forehead, right smack in the middle? Yeah, that's from laser tag. No one said it was an easy sport.

Next time, we'll remember to bring bread to feed all of the ducks and geese with.

I think the geese made some funny squawks or something, Carter surely seemed to see or hear something.

A shot of downtown at sunset from in front of the Civic Center

pretties

2010-03-17T18:05:00.000-05:00

I cannot wait for these fabrics to arrive! I've followed Jessica Jones' How About Orange blog forever and was so excited to see she made her own line of fabrics with all of her beautiful prints. I can't wait to make these into something pretty!

Modern Flora - Blue Leaflet (Jessica Jones fabric)

Red/Orange Calliope (Jessica Jones fabric)

Red/Orange Fireworks (Jessica Jones fabric)

Happy birthday, Adrienne!

2010-02-17T16:43:00.000-06:00

Happy happy birthday to my sister (almost-twin) Adrienne! I hope you have a perfect day!

We love you!

Icicles are heavy!

2010-02-17T16:37:00.000-06:00

The view from our dining room window

Icicles are heavy. I found this out the hard way when I thought I'd just break one off and hold it to take a photo. The first one I tried holding broke off, slid straight through my hand (pulling my arm down on the way) and broke into a bajillion pieces, landing in the foot+ of snow under our window. Needless to say, I only tried one more time before feeling silly and giving up.

They sure are pretty though!