THE NEXT CHAPTER

Update. {33 weeks}

2011-05-19T17:53:00.006-04:00

Wow...it's been two weeks already since my last post. Sorry to leave everyone hanging...just a ton of bumps in the road.

We've had four more NSTs and all have been great. Baby A is forever moving, jumping, kicking. Getting his accelerations is a breeze. Baby B gives them a run for their money, though. She likes to sit quietly for about a half an hour then give one good acceleration. As for me, my blood pressure is slowly creeping up, but I'm being watched carefully and closely and my doctors aren't worried - so I'm not worried. My heart rate has been high a couple times, too, but also in an okay range. My stretch marks/belly button area have had a painful, burning itch that the docs think are the beginning of PUPPP {a rash that starts on your belly and spreads - click on link for more info}. Cortisone helps, but I'd love a nice piece of sandpaper to rub on my belly. *grin*

My doctors have told me that I need to be resting as much as I possibly can with a 2 1/2yo. Physically, it's a fairly easy thing to do since I really can't do much else. Mentally, however, it's a struggle. Eric and I feel like we are falling farther and farther behind in the little {and big} things we'd like to have done around the house {for example - the nursery}. It's frustrating not to be able to do what needs to be done. Grrrr....

We saw the specialist and everything looks great. He focused on their blood flow in and out and is happy to see there is nothing obstructing the umbilical cords. He felt confident telling us Baby B is just smaller than Baby A. We have an ultrasound and prenatal next week, so we'll be able to confirm Baby B is just smaller.

I'm still struggling with my blood sugar levels, but not in an alarming sense. I can't wait for these babies to get here, just so I can eat without having to inject insulin, prick my finger, and count carbs. *sigh* Soon...very soon.

The pain in my back and legs still comes and goes, but I think Baby A has shifted a tad, giving the nerves in my L leg a bit of a break. While I still can't lift my legs, I'm happy some of the pain has lessened. My super-husband has been amazing rubbing my feet, back, whatever to give me some relief.

So, that is where I'm at in the pregnancy...tired, huge, itchy, hormonal, you name it...but, the end is in site! Yay!

Five down...only two more to go! {I miscounted}

2011-05-05T16:28:00.004-04:00

Wow. There's so many appointments I can't even keep track anymore.

Tuesday was our first non-stress test {NST} at the hospital. Everything went well. Baby A is a little slug. He's seriously just hanging out, having a good 'ole time. Baby B must have been sleepy that morning because she wasn't moving as much as normal, but still looked great. Heart rates looked wonderful as well.

Eric came with to help wrangle Avarie. They spent the majority of the time looking at the babies in the nursery. She was happy as a lark! We probably could have left her there and she wouldn't have even noticed we were gone. *wink*

In the afternoon, my friend, Katherine, watched Avarie for me. Avarie was in heaven since she got to spend time with Turner {whom we're still talking about}. My therapist told me there isn't a lot that can be done with the pain in the front of my leg/groin {which is pretty much what I expected...there IS a baby camped out there}. And as for not being able to lift it; her suggestion is to lift my leg myself. {I'm going to have to talk to her about this one because the problem I'm having is the giant belly not allowing me to bend to lift the leg. Hmmmm....}

She did give me a couple pointers on standing. When scooting forward and then standing up, I'm to do a Kegel and then "lift" my belly using the muscles around my pelvis. She also told me to go slowly {as if I had another option, seriously}. While it helps with some of the strain in my leg/pelvis, it still doesn't help the seizing in my back - something else we'll need to chat about. She did some massage on the L side of my low back/buttocks, which felt great for an hour or so afterwards. By the end of the night, however, I was in more pain than I started with and could barely walk. She also gave me a Serola Sacroiliac Belt to try out for stabilizing my hips/pelvis. All in all, PT is making me very nervous. I don't want to wind up in more pain after each visit. We'll see how the next appointment goes.

Today we met with my neurologist. I LOVE my neurologist. She is so amazing. We talked about headaches {I had a full-blown migraine on Sunday} and the hip/back pain. She said the hip/back pain is mainly compression of nerves and really won't go away until the babies are born {which I knew}. I did ask if she was sure, though, because I'm so afraid of not regaining use of my leg. She's sure. Whew! She also wanted me to be aware that since I'm having pain radiate from my low back down my L leg to be very careful about weakness in my foot. When that nerve gets pinched it can cause weakness and essentially, you'd trip or go down. And since I currently don't have the greatest balance and my center of gravity is so off, I need to be careful. I can only move at a turtle's pace right now, but I'll definitely be paying more attention.

This afternoon was another visit to the hospital for an NST. Avarie and I had taken a little catnap before the appointment...well, at least we tried to. She fell asleep 10 minutes before we had to get up. What a miserable afternoon. She was bawling, had to bring her puppy and blankie, and I had to carry her down the stairs. She struggled with her shoes {and I struggled helping her} and then fell off our front step. More crying ensued and I wound up carrying her to the car as well. I hate trying to get her out the door these days without Eric's help. It's exhausting!

The NST, itself, went fine. Both babies were moving like crazy, so they were able to get nice accelerations in heartbeats. Eric had met us there to help with Avarie and she was her happy little self again. She got to see the babies and then she kicked back in a recliner to watch TV. She's going to have this whole hospital routine under wraps by the time the babies get here!

Tomorrow we see the specialist for an ultrasound and I have another PT appointment. Then, the weekend is here. Yay!

One down...only five more to go!

2011-05-02T17:07:00.003-04:00

Today we took Avarie to our ENT for a check-up on the tubes in her ears.

The good news is the tubes are out of her eardrums. {And they're healed/healing nicely.} They are sitting just outside her eardrums in wax. A little too far for our doctor to go in and grab. The even better news is that we will NOT have to do any sort of surgery to get them out.

Whew!

We were sort of expecting them not to be out and have to squeeze in a minor surgery between all the baby stuff. Thankfully, they will either fall completely out on their own or at our next visit in October she'll be able to clean her ears and get them out.

After our appointment I took her to Kohr's Brothers for custard. It was free with a coupon and perfect for a hot summer...er, spring?...day.

{almost} more than I can handle

2011-04-28T18:21:00.003-04:00

Here's what's been going on since my last "update" post:

I failed my 3 hour glucose test and met with a dietitian to refresh our memories on gestational diabetes. We went over how many carbohydrates I can have for each meal/snacks and where my blood sugar levels should be. After a week of revamping my diet and testing my blood I was sent to an endocrinologist and put on insulin {two placentas are not better than one, in this case}. After another week of testing, my insulin was increased. We meet with her again tomorrow to go over numbers and such.

The babies are more than active and are, unfortunately, causing a great deal of pain. About 75% of the time, I cannot lift my L leg more than a couple inches. Baby A is sitting on nerves that run down my leg. This means getting up stairs proves to be difficult and getting into the bathtub requires the help of my super-husband. He literally has to lift my leg up and over. There is continual pain in my pelvis, a deep aching/throbbing in my hip bones/joints, and a continual tightening, piercing, locking pain in my low back. Some days/nights require the literal support of super-husband just to walk as I'm hobbled over and sometimes can't get my L leg to even work. The babies are moving so much and so hard that sleep is becoming increasingly more difficult. And Baby B punches, kicks, turns so forcefully that she can, almost, drop me to my knees and no doubt, bring me to tears. {At which point Bug will run over to tell me, "Mommy, it's okay. It's okay." And will wipe away my tears.}

We've also been measuring my circumference...just for fun. At 26 weeks I was 44" around. 28 weeks = 46" and 30 weeks = 48 1/2". If that pace continues over the next eight weeks I could wind up as big around as I am tall. I will officially be a weeble woble; not that I'm not seriously close now.

Our last ultrasound {3 weeks ago} had Baby A {boy} measuring at 27 weeks {which I was}, weighing 2 pounds 5 ounces, and head down. Baby B {girl} measured close to 27 weeks, weighed 1 pound 14 ounces, and was also head down.

Because of the differing sizes of the babies {which ultimately is okay because they each have their own placenta} we had another ultrasound and prenatal today. The ultrasound was to check on the growth curve of the babies.

Baby A is measuring at 31 weeks {I am now at 30 weeks}. He is 3 pounds 15 ounces and is still head down. His spine curves along the L side of my belly with feet at my sternum.

Baby B {girl} is measuring at 28 weeks. She is right at 3 pounds and has managed to turn herself completely around. Her head is at my sternum, her spine curves down along my R side, and her feet are under my belly button. Together, they are in a yin-yang position. My guess is the severe stabbing pains I'm having in my belly are from her constant kicking, punching, turning, swiveling, etc. {Or the constant beatings they are inflicting upon one another as one kicks, the other kicks back....}

Baby A has remained in the 50th percentile while Baby B has gone from the 25th percentile to the 17th. While they are still allowed to have their own weight, I have been scheduled to see a perinatologist next week just to make sure everything is, indeed, okay. We will be seeing the same doctor we saw during my pregnancy with Avarie for her CCAM. I also have to go to the hospital {versus my Ob/Gyn's} twice a week, starting next week, for non-stress tests to monitor the wee ones. Lastly, I've also agreed to see a physical therapist in hopes of alleviating some of this pain.

So, that's the story. We {me and super-husband} are feeling seriously overwhelmed and cannot wait for his parents to arrive {in a couple weeks} to help with Bug. While we are stressed out of our minds we're still anxiously awaiting their arrival and cannot wait to meet these two 'lil babes.

Easter Egg Hunt

2011-04-26T12:46:00.004-04:00

Spring training.

2011-04-10T15:54:00.004-04:00

I'm so proud.

Like, really proud.

{You'll hear it in my voice.}

My baby girl isn't even 2 1/2 and she can whack the crap out of her t-ball without hitting the stand.

Who wouldn't be proud?

A glass of wHine.

2011-04-05T23:51:00.003-04:00

Not again.

Apparently, my nurse fibbed a bit when she said my last three hour glucose test was my last three hour glucose test.

I'm going again tomorrow morning for round two.

Eric is confident I will pass. Me...not so much. At least, I'll be shocked if I do.

We also have another ultrasound on Thursday.

Just a routine visit. I'm guessing it's to check the babies growth; make sure one isn't over taking the other. That and to see what position they're in.

Oh, and I'm going to ask them to double check the sexes. One can never be too sure. *wink*

The outcome of the poll was surprising! And as always, fun to watch change on a day to day basis.

Macy was the definite winner with an amazing 64% total votes for the girls names. Charlotte came in second at 17% and Keegan at 11%.

The boys were much more neck and neck. Cooper was the winner with 37% of the votes, Reid was second with 31% and Benjamin at 25%.

As I said before, we're [more than likely] not going to announce a name until we see them, but it's fun to get an idea of what everyone else thinks.

Thank you to everyone who played along!

Little Stinker!

2011-03-20T22:52:00.003-04:00

This video was taken March 5th, 2011 at Azalea Park, while Avarie's Gammy and Gampy Scobba were visiting. We had a super fun time. The next day we went to Bounce n Play. I think the Grandparents held their own w/little Bug and had a super, duper time. Enjoy!

If you voted...

2011-03-18T12:53:00.001-04:00

...please vote again.

I couldn't add names once someone voted, so I had to delete both polls and re-post.

My apologies.

Please vote again.

Thank you!!!

Baby names!

2011-03-18T01:25:00.003-04:00

If you've been following our blog since the beginning, you may recall our posting a poll about our favorite baby names. We never shared our true and final decision, but it was fun to get people thinking about the baby and have friends and family share in part of the whole process.

So, you've guessed it! We're going to do it again! Yay! You're SO excited. I can tell. *wink*

Here's the deal: we've picked five to six names we really like and will post one poll for our baby girl and another poll for our baby boy. Hopefully, I'll be able to have two polls going at the same time.

You will notice that we've worked hard at finding individual names for them, as they are individuals. So, no Maddy and Matt or Coral and Cole. Eric and I prefer not to refer to them as "the twins", but to call them by their names. We feel it's important for them as individuals and their development not to be considered one unit, but two amazing creatures.

Now, after all this gibberish, please look for a post on the upper right hand side of the blog and vote, vote, vote! Feel free to share with friends and family.

**Please note that I'm posting this when I can't sleep...meaning my man isn't here to help me remember all of the names. It's quite possible there are a couple more to add and maybe even one or two that "shouldn't" be on the polls. I'll update asap. Thank you!**

Better late than never.

2011-03-12T18:05:00.005-05:00

We finally got our ultrasound pics from last week!

We're excited to share!

On the right hand side you'll see either an "A" or "B" indicating which baby is which.

Baby A, our little boy, didn't have as many good shots as his sister.

Baby B, our little girl, however is a show-off. She was more than eager to let us view those little legs of hers. She even made it a point to stretch them alllll the way out! Felt gooood.

The whole leg thing is ridiculously similar to when Bug was in the womb. She only showed her legs for the longest time, too.

Anyhow...enjoy!

Guess what?!

2011-03-02T17:48:00.003-05:00

We're having one of each!

Baby A {boy} is currently breech.

Baby B {girl} is head first.

Their heads are pretty much side by side...like a little yin-yang.

Everything looks very well.

They are measuring at 22 weeks.

Boy is 1 pound 0 ounces and girl is measuring at 15 ounces.

We're so excited and feel so blessed!

happy, HAPPY, news {& misc. stuff}

2011-02-21T17:05:00.004-05:00

So. I got THE BEST news ever today!

One of the nurses called to tell me I did NOT have gestational diabetes! Isn't that amazing?!

She said I failed one of the four, but my doctor {bless his heart!} marked it as a "no".

I responded by telling her to give him a hug for me.

She did mention that I should still watch my carbs. I told her I would as I do not want to push things. Oh, what a weight off my shoulders!

And for some post-dated miscellaneous news {it seems a little vain after re-reading}:

I don't *think* I ever mentioned this, so I apologize in advance for any repeat.

My girlfriend, Brooke, who also happens to be the family stylist, asked in early January if we could watch her little man for a couple days. I happily told her we would. When she picked him up the first day she asked if I wanted to be paid now or tomorrow. I asked if we could just trade services. Oh, the joy when she said she'd happily cut the entire families head's! I hadn't had a haircut since before she went of maternity leave {sometime in October} and I was starting to feel soooo crummy. She got us all in one Saturday afternoon and I went from this:

To this:

It was heaven! She even gave me a glosser so I could bring some life back to it. I go again this Wednesday and I'm having my first facial at a spa {Holladay Spa} in the same salon. It's an $80 service that I paid $30 for through Groupon.com. {They were doing a special for half-off, but I also had a coupon for an additional $10 off. Sweet, huh?} I am super excited for another day, or at least, afternoon of relaxation. Plus, I'm hoping the facial will help my skin. Pregnancy does not bode well for me and my T-zone.

We are gearing up for Here Wee Grow Again, as well. It starts this Saturday, February 26th and runs through March 5th or 6th. I'm planning on going this Saturday to look for Avarie and basics for the babies.

We so desperately wanted to be able to get a few things for the babies that I moved my ultrasound up a couple days. Don't judge me. ;) We have GOT to know what we're having so we can plan accordingly. And thankfully, by moving the US from the 4th to the 2nd, it will give us a couple more days to shop and SAVE MONEY. Bottom line.

Oh, right. Lastly, Eric celebrated his birthday this past Saturday. We had a nice family outing and then came home to a nice, big, bang. We put in a load of laundry {we were planning on going to Ikea the next day} and guess what?! The pipe under our kitchen sink came apart as the load was rinsing. There was water everywhere. And Eric, in his hurry to get some towels, tripped over Bug's little shopping cart and just about took me with him. Needless to say, we didn't go to Ikea.

It is never boring in our house.

Going into hibernation.

2011-02-18T15:27:00.003-05:00

This soft, warm, breezy weather has been so uplifting.

Today we had a high of 72 degrees.

The house has been wide open the last two days. We've been airing out the winter blues and unhealthy particles that have gathered in the air for the last few months.

While I'm loving the sun, the soft, sweet songs of the birds, and the gentle rustle of the swaying branches...all I want to do is curl up and sleep.

I'm practically falling asleep as I type this!

I want food and sleep.

Lots and lots and lots of sleep.

Apparently, this Mama Bear has her seasons all mixed up. How do I fix this one?

20 weeks...then and now.

2011-02-16T20:37:00.004-05:00

Well, my test is over.

I managed to keep that horrible sugar drink down and endure four needle sticks. One in each arm every other hour for three hours {one is a pretest draw}.

I now look like a huge, pregnant, crack-whore who couldn't find a vein. Thank goodness it's still cool out and I can still wear long sleeves, huh? *wink*

I should have results {maybe} by the end of this week. Definitely by mid-week next week.

I'm keeping my fingers crossed.

As you may have noticed, there is a little survey up in the right hand corner of the blog. We find out the sex of the babies on March 2nd. It can't come soon enough. Twenty weeks with one baby means you're half-way there. Twenty weeks with two babies mean you're well over the half-way point and then panic ensues. As it did at mid-night last night when I couldn't sleep then realized I have only about 14-15 left to be totally prepared. Which we're not. Not even close. It's amazing how the first one kicks you in the butt and you're ready with months to spare. These two will be lucky if they have a place to sleep! Poor little things.

Anyhow...I have attached two photos to the end of this note. The first is me at 20 weeks with Avarie Bug. And the second is me, again at 20 weeks, with two babies. {It was taken today. With Bug's help holding my poor belly up.} Enjoy!

wee baby belly.

not so wee baby belly.

I don't want toooooo!

2011-02-15T22:35:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow morning I have to go in for my three hour glucose test {to test for gestational diabetes}.

I failed my one hour. The cutoff was 129. I was at 140.

Eleven darn points.

That is what stands between me and my SLEEP!!! I have to be there between 7 - 7:30 a.m. I do not do mornings. I especially do not do mornings when I have to drink icky, nasty super-sugary drinks and get poked by needles.

*sigh*

Honestly, it's not the lack of sleep, sugary drinks, or needles that really bother me. It's carrying twins and having gestational diabetes...again. Not only does it scare me for their sake, but for my own, as well.

If you have gestational diabetes the first go around {which I did}, the chances are pretty high it'll happen the second go around. It also means each time I put my body through this, my chances for developing Type II diabetes later in life increases. That is a super scary statistic. {Try saying that three times fast. *wink*}

At any rate, I still have to have the test. For their sake. And I'm going to pray and send positive thoughts into the universe. Not just for their sake, but for mine as well. There's no point worrying. As my therapist told me often: ...worrying is as effective as trying to solve an algebra equation by chewing bubble gum.

14 things I love.

2011-02-14T21:15:00.003-05:00

I'm going to take a different twist on this Valentine's Day and share a few things I love:

My family, immediate and extended, of course.
Sleeping in.
Hearing my baby girl yell, "Mommeee!"
The smell of the sun in my hair.
My husband. The way he loves me. And how it carries me through thick and thin.
Devouring a book. In the bathtub. With bubbles. Aaahhhh.
Taking pictures of anything, everything, and anyone.
My kitters purring.
Dark Lindt chocolate. Dark, cherry, chili, Lindt chocolate.
That my daughter must include herself when Eric and I hug and/or kiss.
Crosswords...even though I double check my answers. Which Eric says is cheating.
Breve lattes. Ooo, the creamy goodness!
Fall. The colors, the smell, the crisp days. Football and combines harvesting.
Visits from Grandpa Jerry in my dreams.

Happy, happy Valentine's Day! xoxoxo

a weekend {or more} in pictures

2011-02-13T19:51:00.007-05:00

running...whilst holding hands.

hugs and kisses, too.

playing with baby westin.

kisses for daddy.

giggles galore.

a tuckered babe.

shake, shake, shake senora....

i see you, too.

Getting back on the horse.

2011-01-21T17:01:00.006-05:00

I miss writing; purging my mind. It's been really, really hard to get in the mood these past couple of months.

I am hoping that this past week is the start of a "new beginning". One that doesn't include 24/7 nausea, retching, and misery. Not just for my sake, but for my child's. I feel like my poor little Bug has been on her own. I'm not kidding. When I said I was happy to have her fed and changed I wasn't joking. This house is unrecognizable because she's, basically, had free reign since I haven't been able to move without retching and fighting vomiting. And Eric can't be here all the time...someone has to pay the bills, right? I'm feeling human again. I've forgotten what it feels like. I'm cautiously hoping the "honeymoon phase" of this pregnancy is here to stay.

So, what have we been up to? Not much. But the last couple of weeks have been tons of fun. Avarie and I enjoyed a craft day in bed. We made a frog paper bag puppet. It was fun watching her try to get him to work.

This past Sunday we took her to her first movie! We went to see Disney's Tangled. There was a brief moment when I thought she might not last, but she did! And she was GREAT! She loved Max and loved the "pin-cess".

After the movie we let her run off some energy. She had gotten a t-ball stand, bat, and balls from her Aunt Lisa and Uncle John for her birthday...poor thing has been dragging the box around the house wanting to play with it. We finally got it out for her...and she LOVED it! She's got a very nice swing {if I don't say so myself} and *might* even be left handed. At least when it comes to batting. She switches back and forth depending on the activity.

I have been keeping myself busy by reading. I needed something a little more specialized this time around, so I got two twin books a couple weeks ago and have already devoured them. The first book, Twin Set, is sorta like The Girlfriend's Guide to Pregnancy. It's realistic, down-to-earth, and humorous...which one needs at a time like this.

The other book, twins!, is a much gentler, but realistic, version of What To Expect When You're Expecting, but from a "pregnant with twins" standpoint. WTEWYE scared the living hell out of me. I stopped reading it. Not even breathing the air was good for your baby in that book. twins! shows you how the babies are fitting in there, tells you how your body is changing, and gives helpful tips from doctors and families with twins.

I'm glad to have read them {and have been sharing tidbits with Eric}, but it's still a TON of information and real-life experiences to absorb. I'm guessing it's like having a baby for the first time period. No matter how many books you read, people you talk to, etc., nothing will be able to prepare you until you're actually living and breathing it.

heartbeat[s]

2010-12-15T18:04:00.005-05:00

I'm really having a hard time keeping this blog up-to-date, but I swear I have a good reason.

I am pregnant and am experiencing morning sickness 24/7. It's so much worse than my last pregnancy and it's been really hard to function. I'm usually just excited to get through a day by keeping Avarie changed, fed, and happy.

Today, I had an appointment to narrow down my due date and to do the Down's Syndrome test. As the technician started to do the ultrasound she asked how my morning sickness has been and I told her it has been horrible! Then she said, "Well, I think I can explain that...you're having twins!"

I think I laughed, then started crying, and then I asked if she was joking. As she started telling me she's not; two little fetus' popped up on the screen. I'm pretty sure Eric and I stopped breathing for a moment. We went in just hoping to see a nice, healthy baby and listen to a little heartbeat and we were surprised with two little babies and two little heartbeats! It's amazing how much your life can change in one, or two, heartbeats!

The doctor told us they each have their own placenta and their own sac, which is best case scenario for twins. More than likely, they're fraternal, but there is still a chance they're identical. We weren't able to do the test we planned on because the babies are too small, so we go back in two weeks for another ultrasound. My due date is July 4th {although my doctor is very reassuring in that I will not go that long}. Below are some ultrasound photos...enjoy, while I catch my breath.

The perfect gift!

2010-11-19T15:15:00.007-05:00

Want to get your loved one something unique? Something they'll treasure forever? Than look no further! I have the answer! A Sticks and Stones keepsake is the ultimate gift!

It's simple. Click on any of the logos and/or pictures in this blog post and I'll take you to their website. In the blank box, type the name, word, or phrase that you'd like and click create. Have fun picking an alphabet photo that you like, represents that special someone or has significance. When you're done; a row of frames will pop up. Choose the one you'd like and viola...you're done!

Really like them? Buy one, get another one for 50% off! Sticks and Stones offers FREE shipping and FREE gift wrap {send them an email to let them know}. Save an additional 10% off your entire order by entering my consultant code DBCABB.

If you have questions or would like me to place your order, you can reach me by email at kathryn dot scobba at gmail dot com. The holidays are fast approaching so order now!

Funny bunny...a week in pictures

2010-11-06T22:23:00.006-04:00

All Hallow's Eve

2010-11-03T17:16:00.009-04:00

eric and avarie, as laura ingalls wilder, waiting in line.

trying to get to the door.

mmmm...enjoying a kit kat on the lawn.

chocolate face.

trying to open a reece's.

striking a pose.

family photo.

my beautiful baby girl; growing up too fast!

petite bebe!

knock, knock!

holding hands with turner.

being blinded by the flash.

walking with my baby. {see that little hand shooing me away? *sniff, sniff*}

i love my lollipop! how about you?

sugar high.

"toasting" their lollipops.

avarie's take home. mmmmm.

Vote! {and help Bug decide which costume to wear}

2010-10-26T10:33:00.004-04:00

This year, in an attempt to not only save money, but stay consciously aware of the insane amount of waste being produced every holiday, I asked my Mom to send me these old dresses of mine. So, this Halloween we are recycling and Avarie is going trick-r-treating as one of my most beloved characters of all time...Laura Ingalls Wilder! {I know; I'm brilliant.}

She looks so adorable in both, though, that we'd love your help deciding which one to wear. I've posted a poll on the upper right side of the blog. Click to vote. Winning dress wins and that's what she'll wear!

The peach one is from a wedding {I think} in the very early 80's. I'm not sure how old I was...nevertheless, it fits her very well. And she's a ham and loves to dress up, so yay!

My pretty little prairie girl.

I taught her how to lift her dress to walk so she wouldn't trip.
I know I'm biased, but isn't she so smart!?

This dress is from my hometown's 100th.
My cousin, Scott, drove a push-pedal John Deere tractor and pulled me in the attached wagon.
I *think* we won first prize. {More help Mom, Dad, Gma.}

Surprisingly, she loves her bonnets.

Okay, now go vote! {Pretty please...with a cherry on top.}
You have until Friday, October 29th, at 8:00 a.m.

Carter's Mountain Apple Orchard

2010-10-24T22:48:00.006-04:00

a little girl whose mouth hurts. boo.
{she's cutting her two year molars.}

waving "hello".

running at me to put the lens cap on.
she is DONE with pictures! {and so it begins....}

enjoying a spectacular view, on a perfect fall day, with her daddy.

so serious.

i will sit, but i will not smile.

i will also have a meltdown because you won't get that damn camera outta my face!

i will make sure the price is acceptable.

i will cover my face in exasperation.

because you are a silly momma.

and you want me to STOP, SIT, SMILE, and POSE.

and THIS is this only smile you will capture!

then i will continue to move...

...and climb and play...

...and go, go, go...

...because it's who i am. :)

thank heaven for little girls.

Read all about it

2010-10-07T11:13:00.006-04:00

My apologies for posting this on such late notice, but I figure better late than never. {I just read about it a parenting magazine.}

Today is Read for the Records' Day of Reading; an annual campaign from the childhood education organization Jumpstart. Go to readfortherecord.org to sign your family and/or your classroom up and get your FREE digital version of The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats. For every book read, another will be DONATED to literacy programs that help low-income children.

What a great, easy way to have fun, teach others about giving, and help other children!!!

22 months

2010-10-06T23:07:00.007-04:00

Baby Bug...

you are 22 months old this week.

and holding steady at 22 pounds.

your giggle is contagious!

you LOVE your "keekeekee" azi.

you can run sooo fast!

more words are popping out of your mouth daily.

can kick a ball like a soccer player!

can walk up and down the stairs.

hug azi so hard we have to remind you to let him breathe.
{it's just because you love him so!}

are insanely independent.

you get very sad if you see others sad...even if it's just on t.v.

give the BEST hugs and kisses.

you are so serious and animated when "talking".

you can brush your own teeth.

know to take off your shoes when we get in the house.

you LOVE to help vacuum, dust, and do laundry!
{you love to help, period. and are a big help!}

you love even more to "talk" on the phone.
{you can maneuver my hero better than i can!}

like to take all your toys out of your toy box...and then get in it to play.

put your cup in the sink when you're done.
{you're a little neat freak.}

are leisurely being potty-trained.

grew an entire inch from last month!
{you're now 33"!}

laugh hysterically and squeal loudly when azi plays with his mouse.

you LOVE babies.
{and it might just be your favorite word.}

still use sign language for please, thank you, and more.

run up to other little ones to say "hi" and give them hugs.

pound on the glass door, screaming "daddy!" when daddy gets home.

you are fascinated with nature.

you are crazy about shrek.

you love, love, LOVE to dance!

you return the love by giving me back rubs.
{it's probably the most adorable thing in the world, too.}

you are never without a smile on your face.

and you never fail to put a smile on ours.

YOU hung the moon baby girl.

xoxoxoxo

Bounce, bounce, bounce...

2010-10-03T17:00:00.004-04:00

It's been awhile, I know.

We've been dealing with a lot. I'll catch you all up later 'cause I know you're just dying to know what we've been up to. ;)

While I gather my wits, please enjoy a clip of our bouncy little Tigger. It's one of her favorite past times.

And yes, we let her jump on the bed. Only after her bath. And only with parental supervision.

Why? People tell us all the time to spoil her because time goes so fast. And they're so right. Can you believe just 12 months ago she was only this big?

*sniff, sniff* I can't. *sniff*

Smithsonian Museum Day: a free family event

2010-09-03T23:18:00.002-04:00

I was thumbing through my Parenting magazine and found the coolest happening near the end of September.

I'm tempted to be selfish and not share in case a whole bunch of C'ville Moms read this and find out about this super-cool event and wind up flooding the one participating place, but you know me, it's my nature to give and to share with others.

On September 25, selected museums nationwide will offer FREE ADMISSION!
Some restrictions apply.**

Yes, you read right! How awesome is that! Instead of our little family of three paying $18 {they actually charge $6 for Baby Bug!!!}; we'd only have to pay $6. That's a huge savings for a family day of fun.

I've already done the majority of the work for you {you're very welcome}, so all you need to do is click HERE and you'll go directly to the Smithsonian's website to find a participating museum near you.

**The Museum Day Ticket provides free admission to one person, plus a guest.

• One ticket per household
• A ticket will gain entry in only one museum and only participating museums
• Only an official Museum Day ticket is eligible for free entry. Official tickets can be found here on the Museum Day website.

to view photobook posted below

2010-09-02T20:39:00.002-04:00

There is an option under the photo book that says "click here to view the photo book larger".

Click it.

It will take you to Shutterfly's sign in page.

Scroll down.

There is an option to VIEW PHOTO BOOK.

Click it.

In the upper right hand corner of the page there's another option to view in FULL SCREEN.

I recommend clicking it.

Once in full screen it will be in auto play. Just hit the pause in the top middle and use the arrow to turn the pages.

Viola!

2010 June/July vacation

2010-09-02T19:44:00.001-04:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

From this day forward you shall be known as Peter

2010-08-31T21:53:00.004-04:00

Bug refuses to call me Momma.

Flat. out. refuses.

Eric spent five minutes trying to get her to say "Momma" while handing me my book and she continually called me "Dadda". {I spent five minutes ignoring her, too. That sucked.}

Oh, I know what you're all thinking...

"She's just a baby."

"She doesn't know any better."

"She'll grow out of it."

"Why on earth would you let this get to you?!"

This is why...because she knows who I am. She does call me Momma. Because she's too dag gone smart for her own good. Because she can clearly say Azizi! Because she's just as stubborn as me and I am the Momma and I will win! That's right! It's a battle of wits with my almost-two-year-old daughter.

So, she threw down the book and then threw herself down.

When she got up, I looked her straight in the eye and exclaimed, "Fine. If you don't want to call me Momma then from here on out I am going to call you Peter!!!"

As nonchalantly as I could, I said, "Peter, come here, it's time to go downstairs."

To which she responded by giggling and flinging herself into my arms.

This is NOT how reverse psychology is supposed to work dammit.

A pinch of love, a dash of sass, and heaps of patience!

2010-08-28T00:07:00.004-04:00

We made cookies yesterday.

Gingerbread to be exact.

It was Bug's official first time baking.

I sort of cheated {she doesn't know that though} and used a kit Eric had gotten as a Christmas present from his employers.

We still had to measure ingredients, pour, stir, refrigerate the dough, {and what I thought would be the best part} roll and cut them out. When she couldn't use the rolling pin entirely by herself, she got mad at me and hit me. {Oh no you didn't!} She then spent some quality time on her favorite step.

After her momentary lapse in lady-like behavior, we went back to rolling and cutting. She enjoyed the cutting, but overall, she enjoys repeating the directions back to me, measuring, and stirring the most. She's good at stirring in the love! ;)

avarie's cookies.
with a molasses, honey, ginger, and cinnamon "frosting" i concocted for the sprinkles.

too busy eating sprinkles to smile.

look what i made!

dancing to joss stone.
if she's not strangling her kitties with love; she's dancing.

mmmmmmmmmm!

Jump! Spin! Laugh! Giggle!

2010-08-27T01:23:00.005-04:00

It's amazing how quickly time passes us by {and then a post doesn't get done - oops!}. Well, I'll try to make up with that this evening by posting not one, but TWO fantabulous videos of our after bath routine with Baby Bug.

Here's the run down. Not every night, because we don't believe in nightly baths due to the delicateness of baby skin and hair and their oils, we prefer two, maybe three, times a week unless she's really skanky, smelly, messy, or grungy...then yeah, a quick dip for sure. Her bath time is like a little mini spa time with this all natural wonderful mixture by E.O. called Nighty Night that produces just enough bubbles to give her some bubble time then they fades away and it's time to clean her up.

After that we take her into our room and she gets put on our bed for a rub down and baby massage. She's had these since birth and now LOVES them. Arms, arms, belly {with a song that goes "Criss, cross, criss, cross, criss, cross, Applesauce!" During the criss cross part you should be making an X across your babes belly/chest then when you say applesauce a big U either from R to L or L to R depending on how you started along pelvic line and back up (if that doesn't make sense - comment or email me; I'll explain). Then you start all over again!}, legs, feet, and toes. Then she's asked to roll over for her back and bum which she happily does. Once she gets her massage she gets some naked free time.

Usually that naked free time would be what you see in the videos and while it's adorable...you can understand with out my needing to explain why she'll be diapered and/or fully clothed. Either way. I hope these make up for a lost couple of days. Enjoy!

She had a costume change between these two videos, but that was all. Honestly, if it were me, I'd be hurling over the edge of the bed. That being said this next video may make you a little spinney and/or dizzy. You have been warned!

I LOVE a great deal!

2010-08-19T20:10:00.003-04:00

You should all know by now I love a great deal. {If you don't: I do.}

I stumbled on this afternoon and unfortunately if you want to participate you only have about four hours...okay, maybe three and a half...left to do so.

The gist: For $10 you get $20 of merchandise at soap.com. Soap.com is the new sister site to diapers.com. Usually you have to spend $50 to get FREE shipping, but along with this super great deal if you use code ship25 you get FREE shipping if you spend only $25 or more.

And you need to be an ideeli.com member to do so. Not to worry though!

Sign up at: www.ideeli.com/invite/goddessdivine

Then go HERE to purchase.

Think of all the goodies...all the savings...all the less running around you'd have to do...and not in this godforsaken heat!!! Enjoy!

Cool new gadget...

2010-08-17T22:43:00.005-04:00

...and I didn't pay a dime for it!

Not even a penny!

Eric had to go to a meeting this morning for work and the reps for Otter Boxes were there. They gave him this super-sweet Defender Series case for his Blackberry. It has three layers of protection for the super klutzy {i.e. my husband}. It's covered with a screen protector, keypad protector, hard cover case, silicone case, and handy-dandy carrying clip. Basically, when you use the entire system {properly} your phone is guaranteed not to break from a three foot drop {as he excitedly proceeded to show me by tossing his $500 phone onto the floor as I about knocked him senseless}.

Then, that wonderful man of mine produces one for me! He says, "Here baby. After we were done I asked the rep if I could have one for my wife and he said sure; what kind of phone does she have?"

Simple as that! {And how nice was that rep? It's good to know there are such kind people in this world...which is why they're getting a nice spot on my super cool blog. *grin*} So, now my Hero has it's own Otter Box Defender Series case. Suu-weet!

I don't know if I'm more excited about the cases themselves or the fact we just saved $100 today. Either way, it was a very good day. Thank you Otter Box people!

Our weekend in {slide} pictures.

2010-08-15T22:49:00.003-04:00

We had a fun and busy weekend.

Eric had the weekend off, so we tried to be spontaneous and just do and/or go. We went to the park, made an indoor fort, Bug helped me make caramel apple dip and then we enjoyed that dip with apples. We also went to Ben & Jerry's for ice cream {we found a coupon}. All in all it was an AWESOME weekend.

Hope you enjoy the photos!

A year ago today.

2010-08-12T22:58:00.005-04:00

Aaahhh.

It felt good to get some of that pent up hurt, betrayal, anger, and frustration into words.

It doesn't feel nearly as good, though, as watching Baby Bug jump {yes, she can jump - and she does so proudly}, laugh, run, climb, giggle, and chase her "keekees" {translation: kitties} from room to room all the while watching each hour tick by today and remembering where we were a year ago today.

We were experiencing the LONGEST day of our entire lives while Avarie was in surgery. She was surrounded by love, prayer, and healing energy and everything was fine. But that day was a day neither one of us {nor her Grandmother's, to be sure} will ever forget.

Yes, it was fairly routine. Yes, she was fine. No, it's nothing compared to MckMama and her family's ordeal nor would I ever wish for that...what it was and continues to be is a reality check. To live in the now; in the present.

Eric and I live every day in the present {ok, we're human, we TRY very hard to}. When Bug wants to play; we play. When she wants to read; we read. To sing and dance; we sing and dance. Because she's only going to be young once. These moments are fleeting and they are to be treasured. {She's almost 2 for crying out loud!?!?} I am thankful to be with her daily. Watching her grow. Playing with her. Reading to her. Laughing, learning, dancing, jumping, giggling.

A year ago today I ripped out my heart and gave it to the little girl you see below.

She doesn't know it, yet, but she wears it on her sleeve.

And, I am happy to report, Avarie's lungs are doing very well. Aside from the bout of bronchiolitis at the end of June...all is well...knock wood. She will have a yearly check with Dr. Rodgers, her pediatric surgeon, at UVa in December. I believe at that time she'll also have another chest xray. As always, we'll keep you posted. xoxo

My exciting new venture!

2010-07-12T13:00:00.001-04:00

A few years ago, I had my own business as a Passion Parties consultant. I proudly had the support of my husband and family members. I worked hard and went from a Consultant to a Team Leader {which meant I had my own team of girls I was responsible for leading}. While I thoroughly enjoyed doing the parties, openly talking about sex and helping women {and men!} comfortably find ways to enhance their intimacy, I had to give them up. The cost of travel wasn't making up for the parties and after we bought our house I wasn't giving 100%.

I have since found a new venture that requires NO start up cost and I am so excited!

I am now, officially, a consultant for:

Sticks and Stones is a one of a kind, heirloom keepsake. It is the perfect gift for anyone and everyone. I know this because my husband and I got one for my brother and his wife as a wedding gift and their reaction was PRICELESS! It was described as "awesome, so cool, where did you get this?, we've never seen anything like it!, it's the most amazing gift ever!, we LOVE it!" And it proudly and prominently hangs on their living room wall.

{a sample from their website}

To order, you can click on the "Sticks and Stones" or "Faith" logo above or get in touch with me and I can help you out. Each one is lovingly hand crafted and signed by its creator. Sticks and Stones offers FREE SHIPPING, a limited time offer of Buy One, Get One at 50% Off, and they always honor a 10% discount when you use my personal consultant code DBCABB.

So, my friends and family, check it out! You'll be amazed! They're gorgeous. And after Adam and Tabby's reaction; I know they're a winner.

I want to thank you, for lettin' me, be myself!

2010-06-08T21:41:00.003-04:00

In order to torture poor, poor Azi like this:

We had to reward him with many, many treats like this:

Please note, the feline was not harmed, physically, in the making of these films. I cannot speak for his pride, however.

Tadpole kisses

2010-06-06T21:06:00.002-04:00

Last weekend Eric had three WHOLE days off to spend with Avarie and I. One morning we were up and at 'em bright and early and went for a {small} hike at Sugar Hollow. We spent more time in the water wading, splashing, throwing rocks, and catching tadpoles than we did hiking. It was way more fun anyway. *grin* Eric caught some of our playtime on video.

My apologies though. I had changed the settings on the camera opening the shutter which let in too much light. At times we'll be almost white. You'll still get the gist of what's happening. Enjoy!

Memorial Day

2010-05-31T13:08:00.004-04:00

Memorial Day was created by a Civil War general "as a way to help the country come back together after the horrors and divide of the Civil War." It's only fitting that this year I share, remember, and honor more of my family history with you...the part that dates back all the way to the Civil War.

This is my Grandfather Dennis. This photo was taken by his daughter, my mother, in May 2008. I am especially proud to tell you my Grandfather fought in WWII. He has the MOST amazing recollections of the war. I love this man so very much and am so happy to be his granddaughter.

What I didn't know, until a few years ago {on the car ride to Gettysburg, PA with my mother and my Aunt Chris}, was that my Great, Great, Great Grandfather Joseph actually fought in the Civil War. To learn that I have a family member who fought for freedom; who fought against slavery was mind blowing. To this day I cannot tell you how amazing, how good it feels to have a family lineage of people fighting for justice, honor, civil liberties, rights, freedom. I am humbled and I am honored. And every day I think of all the men, women, mothers, fathers, brothers, sisters all over the world doing the very same thing. I pray for their safe return. More importantly, I pray for an end of violence and war. I am hopeful we will see that day.

This is the flag flying high over the Cedar Creek Battlefield in Cedar Creek, VA. This is one of three battles my Great, Great, Great Grandfather fought in during his tour in VA.

Avarie and I {she was six months when this was taken} walking the same ground our ancestor fought during the Civil War.

This Memorial Day remember. Remember why. How. And that freedom isn't free. Too many paid with their lives.

Our little gardner.

2010-05-21T22:48:00.003-04:00

Baby Bug has a bug. :( She vomited a bit yesterday {which we thought was just from all the drainage down her throat}. Now, it's turned into diarrhea. Poor thing. We kept her home today. Good thing, too, because she had some serious blowouts.

We had to turn down an invite from Todd, Katherine, and Turner to Fridays After Five. *sniff, sniff* It was such a perfect evening, too. It's okay though. There will be more Fridays. We went outside and trimmed what the HOA missed and mulched our hostas. Little Miss helped. There is nothing you can do that she can't do. {And possibly do better! *grin*}

A fun filled weekend.

2010-05-16T19:54:00.008-04:00

We had a fun, relaxing weekend.

Those are my favorite.

We had family night Friday night. We went out for pizza at a new place called Rise. It was soooo good. Avarie wolfed down an entire piece all by herself!

We made it home just in time to curl up and enjoy a very, very loud thunderstorm. Maybe our first true one of the year.

After the storm I peeked out our bedroom window to make sure my Lollipop Lillies were still standing and I saw this little guy perched on our light. He was having a lovely feast.

Saturday morning Avarie and I went to Starbucks. We sat outside enjoying a double, grande, vanilla, coffee based frappuccino and sharing a yogurt parfait.

She became the welcome wagon as she whooped and hollered at every poor person that went into Starbucks and/or Smoothy King. {Thankfully, they thought she was cute.}

Then we went to Mona Lisa to get homemade/locally made pasta, bread, and cheese for dinner. That's about when the coffee/sugar kicked in {and I wanted to cry}. She ran screaming around the store and I learned the delicate art of balancing many, many things at one time{including ones child who is experiencing a caffeine/sugar buzz and has lost her hearing because of it}.

Thankfully Eric came home early and it was outside we went!

We found another beetle.

Last year she wanted to eat it.

This year we could barely get her to touch it.

He was super cool though. He would squeak like a mouse when you touched him.

Turner came out to play, too.

Since it was so very nice it was only fitting we give them some water.

Isn't my little bucket-head adorable?

She tried to drink like her Daddy showed her, which was like Emma - Turner's dog, but just didn't want to.

She just had to pick it up and try to drink like a big girl. :)

Ma petite chou.

They're getting so big.

{And they're so very wet!}

I think she looks so much like my baby brother, Ryan in this photo.

My new jewelry. You like? I call him Frogger.

He {or maybe it's a she} is a Gray Tree Frog.

He turns colors!

And he was still on the light from the night before!

He has very cool yellow streaks on the undersides of his legs.

See how much darker he's already gotten?

This little guy jumped from me straight onto Avarie's arm when I'd gotten him the first time {yes, these inside photos are the second time I got the frog to play with}.

Poor child...she was okay for like 2 milliseconds then went into freak mode.

Hmmm...she needs to get on the farm fast!

And we ended the weekend {and the night} with some light finger painting.

Daddy helped.

Then it was straight into a bubble bath and into bed.

It was a good weekend. Hope yours was too.

To Momma with love {just had to share}

2010-05-10T22:06:00.003-04:00

I'd love to say my husband found this entirely on his own, but I can't. A little bird {she goes by the name of Kathryn} whispered a sweet desire in his ear. Thankfully, he wasn't sleeping and heard her. Isn't it beautiful?!?! Even though I had an idea it was what I'd be getting I was blown away by the simplicity and beauty.

It's made by a company called Nashelle. I had seen a few ads in my Parenting magazines. What I didn't know is they are recycled 14k gold fill and hand made with love. Each piece is uniquely handcrafted in the USA.

The "K" is obvious. The stone is Avarie's birthstone; hence a perfect Mother's Day gift. They also have other charms that can be added {i.e. a charm with our wedding date stamped or a heart}. At any rate, I love it. I cried. They made my day. And I just had to share. :)

The day I gave my heart away.

2010-05-09T22:05:00.005-04:00

Eric and I were never 100% sure we wanted children. For numerous reasons. But one night we, well, I {and I drug my husband along}, jumped off a cliff. And then we were pregnant. I kept hearing over, and over, and over, and over that "being a parent is the best thing ever." I would smile politely and nod thinking about my husband and my two kitties. They're pretty great, too. Could a kid really be that much cooler?

By the time Avarie was born, I'd been in the hospital three days. She was taken immediately to an on call pediatrician for evaluation of her CCAM. After what seemed like an eternity I got to see her for a minute then she was whisked away to the nursery for monitoring. I told Eric to go with her. I started hemorrhaging and wound up losing close to three units of blood. Five whole hours later the bleeding was under control and they felt I had enough strength to be wheeled to the nursery. I was nervous to see. Scared. Would we bond instantly? How would it feel to see this child of mine? When I finally go to hold her the whole world melted away. That teeny-tiny little creature stole my entire heart. I cried. She was amazing. Perfect. Beautiful. A gift. And we made her. And I became a Mom.

Now, when parents talk about their children and their eyes light up...I get it. I get the fear, the worry, the happiness, the never-ending, undying love. I get it. Being a parent is the best thing ever. So, to all the Mom's all over the world, Happy Mother's Day...today and every day of the year.

Monkey see, monkey do.

2010-05-02T22:58:00.003-04:00

We apologize that we've been unable to find a way to fix this video so you can watch it without having to lean to one side or the other. But, as you'll find, it's worth any kink you may get in your neck. She's a goofy little girl.

And yes, those are my high heeled Mary Jane's and yes, she has my blue tooth headpiece for my mobile phone. Apparently, I'm getting a glimpse of myself here. Hhmmmmm.....

our house is a very, very, very fine house.

2010-04-30T18:24:00.005-04:00

We've been struggling with growing grass in our front yard since we moved in. This Virginia clay is an entirely different substance to work with versus the rich, dark soil of the Midwest. Our HOA provided us with grass seed, lime, and plant food and with the guidance of Eric's parents...voila! We have grass! There a few bald spots that we're still dealing with but it's better than the kitty-litter box it was when we moved in. {It literally was a giant kitty-litter box...it was full of cedar chips...soooo not attractive.}

The rest of the yard work is our own blood, sweat, and tears. And aside from the ornamental fence and mulch; it hasn't cost us a dime. A friend has given us the plants and Kat's Mom was kind enough to share the hostas.

BEFORE {taken in February 2008}

AFTER {taken Sunday, April 25, 2010}

Fridays After Five {our first of 2010}

2010-04-29T06:00:00.001-04:00

daddy's little girl.

like father, like son.

see any resemblance?

thirsty.

99...er...1 red balloon.

something...

...was...

...super, duper...

...silly.

nom. nom. nom.

pork or beef?

they go in here.

what?

todd, katherine, and turner.

me, eric, and a baby preoccupied by a cell phone.

this is the good life.

baby feet.
{go HERE to see roughly one year ago.}

good boy!

2010-04-28T06:00:00.000-04:00

avarie's first haircut

2010-04-25T22:29:00.003-04:00

Friday morning I had an appointment for a haircut and color. Since Avarie's hair has been a tad unruly I asked my stylist if we could slip her in for a quick trim. Eric brought her over and she did beautifully. Brooke trimmed around her ears, a tad off the front/top, and tidied up that mess in the back. I'm hoping this will jump start real hair growth. We'll cross our fingers and see!

Checking Miss Brooke {and the entire situation} out.
I think she was more freaked out by the foils in my hair...not that I blame her.

Being oh so still and patient. Such a good girl!

Getting tickled. She's giggling along with Brooke...you just can't tell with the paci in her mouth.

So pretty!

My little nature lover.

2010-04-24T15:08:00.006-04:00

Taking time to stop and smell the lilacs. {They were heavenly.}

And again.

She loved them. Can you tell?

Highlights from our visit to D.C. (or another photo dump)

2010-04-20T22:33:00.008-04:00

Our little angel.

"Mountains and Clouds" is the sculpture behind her.
We're in the Hart Senate Office Building waiting for our tour of the Capitol.

Me and my man.

Eric showing Avarie the "lucky star" in the Capitol.
Can you see the groove in the floor from everyone walking on it?

The ceiling in the Senate Rotunda {we think}.

Another beautiful ceiling and chandelier.

The ceiling of the Capitol Rotunda.

A closer look at The Apotheosis of Washington by Brumidi.

Looking at the chandelier in the Senate Rotunda at eye level. {It's my favorite.}

Eric, the Lone Sailor, Carol, and Larry {his parents} at the Navy Memorial.
Larry served in the Navy before Eric was born.

Close up of the Lone Sailor.

Visiting the live butterfly exhibit at the Smithsonian Museum of Natural History.
Can you see what she's pointing at?

And here?

How about this one? So very pretty aren't they?

Giving the grasshoppers kisses. She's a lover - what can I say?

Looking at all the fun insects! She had such a blast here...we felt bad leaving.

Representing! Carol, Avarie, and I in front of the Iowa pillar at the WWII Memorial.

Taking my water Bug over to check it all out. Boy was it cold!

Avarie with her Gramma and Grampa standing at the WWII Memorial with the Reflecting Pool and the Lincoln Memorial in the background.

A very, very, very happy Grampa snugging with his baby girl.
{And one of my most favorite photos from the entire trip.}

a glass of wHine: I am angry.

2010-04-17T15:14:00.004-04:00

Some jerk hit our car last night because he really, really, really needed yogurt.

We were coming back into town from visiting friends and we had a craving for a malt or a shake so we thought we'd try Arch's on Emmet Street. We'd never been there so we didn't know the parking lot was smaller than the building itself. After seeing about 20 people in line and only 1 person working we tried to high tail it out of there. Luckily, there was a spot open so we got turned around and as we were leaving I stopped so as not to hit the pedestrians crossing the entrance. I also, admittedly, was not far enough to the right of the entrance...I was in the middle. But at 11:00 p.m. at night this shouldn't have been a problem. Oh, so I thought.

I'm needing to turn right {it's our ONLY OPTION to exit} when this huge effing SUV feels the need to not only turn into the entrance, but to not have the decency to let us out either. He doesn't stop one bit. This moron just keeps coming. He is so close at this point I can see his nose hairs and how the weave of his blue and orange shirt is knit.

And I. am. pissed.

My baby girl is in the back. Sleeping peacefully, but still. She is in the car and the jerk is driving his car right along the side of mine: not even caring.

Once he's by, I tell Eric we need to go back. He needs to know what an idiot he is. Why couldn't he just let us out first? What the hell is wrong with him? He NEEDS to know that if he'd hurt my baby I'd have ripped his stupid, unable-to-see-how-to-drive-eyeballs out with my bare hands and shoved them down his stupid wife's throat who sat there and let him drive like the stupid idiot he is!!! {Ok, so I feel a little psycho Momma Bear rage when it comes to not only my child, but idiots in general, and if you think you haven't felt the very same, well, I don't believe you. You're lying.}

Eric sits there quietly letting me spew my obscenities and we head to Ben & Jerry's. It isn't until he gets out that he then sees they hit us. We now have a nice long smear of their paint along the driver side fender. Awesome. {Btw, if you think I was mad before...whew!, imagine me now!}

Eric drives back to see if they're still there.

They're not. They didn't want to wait in line either. Lucky for them. Or maybe not. Karma's a bitch people. You may think you're getting away with your evil-doings but somewhere, someone in the universe, or the universe itself, is watching. You will get yours. I know it. I believe it.

Which is why you do unto others as you would have done unto you. And you politely let the car OUT before trying to shove your BIG ASS SUV in where it doesn't friggin' fit!!! Grrrrrrrr.

Easter baskets, treats, and a wee huntress {as promised!}

2010-04-07T13:58:00.006-04:00

Not sure where to start.

What's in this stuff Momma?

Okay, my basket is empty...let's go!

Actually, it wasn't empty...

...the little stinker had what matters most. The chocolate.
{Oh, she is most definitely my baby girl. There are no questions now. *grin*}

My serious little huntress.

She figured out right away there were goodies in all these eggs.

You...

...will NOT...

...help me with MY basket Momma.
{Do you see her checking to make sure I didn't snitch an egg?}

She found every last one all by herself.

Who knew something so simple could make you so proud.

Coming to show me her bounty.

A gift from Gramma and Grampa Scobba.
These WOW cars/trucks are awesome!!!

I hope you all had a lovely Easter and/or weekend. Thanks for stopping by!

16 months old!!!

2010-04-04T23:09:00.003-04:00

Look who is 16 months old today!!! Goodness gracious! Where has the time gone?!?! Hope everyone had a lovely Easter and that the Easter Bunny was as good to you as he was to Bug.

{Stay tuned...an Easter egg hunt in a fluffy dress is soon to follow.}

Spring days: a picture is worth a thousand words.

2010-03-31T22:08:00.010-04:00

Afternoon naps on rainy days

2010-03-28T12:17:00.004-04:00

My husband will probably kill me for posting this picture. Which is why I'm doing it while they are still sleeping. Bwaahahahahaaa!

He needn't be so worried. It's absolutely adorable. He's flat on his back snoring softly {I have no idea how it doesn't wake her up}. She's flat on her back sleeping just like her Momma and her Uncles on the Christianson side: with her arms thrown straight above her head.

What better thing to do on a rainy afternoon than snuggle up and take a nap together?

I had to sneak in another photo after the fact. This is usually how Baby Bug sleeps when she's with us. A leg or two thrown over the covers and us.

Brothers, sisters, and pink elephants

2010-03-26T17:23:00.004-04:00

I have three younger siblings. All boys. There were definitely times growing up I'd wished I'd had a sister {in fact, by the last one, when my parents called to tell us it was another boy I told them to take him back - I didn't want him; I wanted a girl}, but I wouldn't have it any other way. My brothers mean THE WORLD to me. They have been there for me through thick and thin, good and bad. They have never, ever judged me. They have loved me unconditionally. And unlike girls {no offense to my much loved girlfriends}, but they don't sugar coat anything...they give it to me straight. A person needs that kind of tough love.

I was catching up with the next in line, Patrick, who was telling me he and his new bride, Megan, {yes, I now have a sister - and another one to "officially" join the family this June} were heading to Prairie du Chien, WI to do some shopping/browsing at Cabela's. My brother[s] is an outdoors man. He eats, sleeps, and breathes to hunt, fish, and just be outside. Anyhow.

I'd asked him if he remembered the big pink elephant on the other side of the river. When we'd cross from Iowa into Wisconsin. You know? When Grandma Bonnie and Grandpa Jerry would take us to see Uncle Dan, Scott, and Amber during the summer? They'd always stop and show us the big pink elephant? He vaguely remembered it, but thankfully my lovely SIL knew exactly what I was talking about.

She sent me this photo earlier this week. I love my brother, but I'm loving having a sister, too.

Angels among us

2010-03-25T13:31:00.003-04:00

Either that or karma has come full circle.

This winter was especially rough. Not only did we have an immense amount of snow, but it was very wet and very heavy. As the snow slid off the house, it melted into this huge mound of ice and ruined our gutters. They couldn't sustain that kind of weight. It bent them off the house and folded them outward. What a mess!

Eric managed to climb out our bedroom windows and bend them somewhat back. He also {sort of} got them clipped back to the roof. There's also a part in the middle that separted and drips on our heads.

So, we've been waiting, very patiently, for our tax refund to get them fixed. {And no, our HOA only covers cleaning them out, nothing more.}

Yesterday, our HOA sent some guys to clean out the gutters and then we heard banging. Really, really LOUD banging. Eric went to ask what was going on and guess what?!?! THEY WERE FIXING OUR GUTTERS!!!!

They completely rehung them with metal stakes, bent them back into shape, and even caulked the part where they had separated! It was THE BEST gift we've been given in a long time.

We are super grateful to cross that off our list and filter that money to something else. We are even more thankful to the men who did something they absolutely did NOT have to do and for no apparent reason.

Thank you...whoever you are. You made our day and we send many blessings and much positive energy your way.

ideeli, anyone?

2010-03-22T21:16:00.003-04:00

"ideeli is the first members-only shopping community in the U.S. We offer limited-time sale events that feature the most sought-after brands in fashion, home and beauty -- at up to 80% off. Membership is by invitation only and there is no fee to join."

That being said I'd like to offer an invitation to my loyal readers. By clicking HERE you may join ideeli and save some ridiculous cash! Enjoy!

Oh, she's a quick one!

2010-03-21T21:45:00.007-04:00

We had a great weekend. Little Miss and I went over the mountain to Kohl's yesterday to exchange some clothes from Auntie Tabby. I was able to find {almost} exactly the same style and color just in a smaller size. I even ignored the "that woman is crazy" looks from other Moms as I yanked wee little capris onto Bug's butt to see if they'd fit. I figured if they fit over a diaper and bloomers, well, we'd be good, right? Wrong.

We got home and did a little fashion show for Daddy and the 18 month shorts were hanging off her little booty. So, all three of us made another run today to exchange the exchange and our soon to be 16 month old now has 12 month size shorts and capris because she's such a skinny-minny {I wish I had her problem *sigh*}.

That's okay though. Both days were absolutely gorgeous and we got to play outside. Yesterday it was actually so warm Avarie and I were both sweating. Here are some photos of our weekend:

Avarie and her popper {thank you Mackenzie!}. She hauls it all over the yard.

Taking a momentary break from riding her bug to play with its antennae.

Striking a pose while sporting her fashionable UNI wear. Go Panthers!!!

Playing with her puzzle.

I just loved the lighting. She's rocking her puzzle and her animals. :)

Self portrait of me and Bug.

My sweet, beautiful girl.

I cannot get a smile out of this girl for the life of me!

Pointing at her Daddy.

And she's off!!!

I can, however, try to get a smile out of YOU! You may be wondering about the title. If not, well, you are now. We were being lazy tonight and eating in front of the TV. This meant we'd pulled her highchair halfway into the living room to do so. Eric sat next to her feeding her bites of pizza. At the end of her meal, we'd ask if she was done and she'd shake her head no, so he'd keep giving it to her. After a minute or so, he realized she was eating them very, very quickly.

Actually, she wasn't eating them at all. The little stinker was chucking them over her head the minute we'd turn ours.

Yep, she's one smart cookie. Sure, I'll take it and I'll just, *toss*, there you go...may I have another?

A little bit of this and a little of that....

2010-03-19T21:30:00.004-04:00

We've had an interesting few weeks here in the Scobba household. For starters, Here Wee Grow Again was a huge success! Above are a few of my goodies. The pile on the left is a tad misleading. There are actually about 10-15 outfits under there. The green dress in the middle happens to be one of my favorites. As is the Janie and Jack dress {with the tag still on it!} on the far right. That was my splurge at around $12. But, considering the brand averages $60-70 brand new I don't feel too bad because, oh yeah, it IS brand new! So are those cute Simple Green Piggies shoes in the middle. They'll be perfect for this fall. I had tons of fun and Avarie has tons of clothes. Yay!

I'm not sure when it happened. I'm not sure if any parent knows when it happens. I just know that I was happily clicking through the photos I'd just uploaded and wham!, it was like a knife in my heart. This photo was the first photo I'd taken that I'd truly seen Bug as a little girl. Not just my baby, but a little girl. Oh, my goodness the heartache!

She is proudly showing her Daddy what I'd taught her earlier that day. She LOVES {as you can see} to run into her closet, close the curtains, and then peek out. What child doesn't? As I stepped into this magical, but dark, place with her, an idea occurred. She has a nightlight on a little table that is a little penguin on a block of ice. The "ice" is the charger. The penguin's belly glows orange when it's the nightlight and if we should lose power or you take him off his charger his belly glows white. So, I showed her how to take him on and off his block. Then I took her into her secret wonderland with her glowing penguin and her little face lit up like you can't imagine. She was so proud of herself. And oh the fun we had running in and out and playing peek with each other!

Little Miss and her penguin. She is proudly showing Daddy what she did all day with Mommy.

Aaahh, yes, meltdowns. What they don't tell you. Bug woke up this past weekend with 103 degree temperature. We watched her closely. Sunday took her to the pediatrician and were sent home with a "it's a virus" diagnosis. She ran a three digit temperature for four straight days. We took her in again and were told she has Roseola. Awesome. She made it to daycare Thursday, but hasn't been feeling her normal self. We're hoping by this weekend she'll really start feeling normal.

This is what arrived this past Monday from my Mom and my Aunt Chris. This was a very, very welcome surprise. Isn't it the cutest thing ever?!?! Not only is it super adorable, but the slicker is super flexible so she can actually move around. There was also a super sweet red, white, and blue bikini with white ruffles. Oh my goodness, I cannot wait for summer to share photos of her in a cute little ruffled swimsuit!!! Until then....

And the "Husband of the Year" award goes to...

2010-03-03T22:43:00.003-05:00

...well, of course, my husband. :)

But why you ask.

Last September, my girlfriend Katherine and I went to this amazing consignment sale called Here WEE Grow Again. It is run so smoothly, the clothes are so well priced and in such wonderful condition that I almost don't want to share this little gem of a secret. {But, I will because I'd hope someone would share it with me.}

Well, this weekend is the start of the sale. Saturday morning at 10:00 a.m. is when the doors open. Eric has to work, but Katherine and I were preparing to dump the babies on her husband, Todd, and get their early to wait in line. Until Eric called me at work today to tell he was the best husband ever.

One of his customer's gave him a Consignor's Pass for FRIDAY EVENING and I can bring a friend!!!!! That's right folks; Katherine and I are getting in before everyone else. And of course we are super excited for an exclusive pass at oodles and oodles of baby clothes before ALL of C'ville. Woooohoooo!!!

I feel so special. And so loved. My man is totally awesome and totally gets me. How many other husband's out there know the secret to their wife's heart is a little blue pass that lets them get first dibs on gently used baby clothes?!?!

I love you baby. Forever and always.

Pee, pee in the pot-tay!

2010-02-28T19:56:00.003-05:00

She did it!

Avarie went pee in the toilet!

Just like a big girl.

I. am. so. PROUD!!!

Here's how it went down:

We asked her if she'd like to take a bath. She said {gave a huge nod} yes and took off for the stairs. Once we got into the bathroom we asked if she'd like to try going pee on the big girl potty. Again, a huge nod yes. {As I stated in my prior post; before getting in the tub we always tell Bug to pee and she does so in her diaper.} So, I helped her out of her jammies and her diaper and plopped her on. She put her little hands on the seat to help balance {I help hold her, too} and I told her to pee and SHE DID IT!!!

I started screaming and yelling congratulatory things and momentarily scared her, but I stopped and she finished. I even got some toilet paper for her so she could wipe {just like Mommy does}. She's way too little to balance and wipe, so I did for her. She hopped off, turned to look, and was absolutely BEAMING when she saw the toilet paper in the bowl {not to mention Eric and I jumping, clapping, telling her what a big girl she is and how much we love her}. She ran over and flushed it herself. Ah, what a happy day!

Here's the deal, though. We're not technically "training" her. She's only 15 months old. We'll continue to ask her if she wants to go, but we're not going to force the issue. We want her to be comfortable. So far she is. And whatever we are or are not doing; it might just be working.

Cats and crayons

2010-02-25T22:43:00.004-05:00

Avarie is coloring with stone shaped soy crayons. Santa found them at Whole Foods and left them in her stocking. Azizi thinks they make just as good of a toy as his mouse. So good, in fact, he lost a couple under the couch and we all had to wait until Daddy got home to lift it up so we could retrieve them.

These two are going to be trouble some day. And that some day is going to be very, very soon.

Self potty training baby? Could there really be??

2010-02-24T16:25:00.002-05:00

Let me preface this little story with some background information. Just a little. Athough, it might wind up being TMI and for that I do apologize, but you'll need to have a little so you can understand why my daughter is the way she is.

We are very liberal, open people. The bathroom happens to be an "open" environment, as well. Since Eric and I started dating we've always been in an apartment/house/etc. that only had one bathroom. It suffices to say that while I was washing my face, he'd be using the toilet or while he was brushing his teeth, I would. It's never bothered us. It actually worked out well for our future selves. I know I never imaged at eight months pregnant not only would I not be able to get off the toilet without a hand from my husband, but I would NOT be able to reach my butt to wipe a few times. *sigh* {There are most definitely things they do not tell you about pregnancy.}

At any rate, since Baby Bug was born, she's been in the bathroom with us as well. It has now become a game of sorts. I tell her Mommy has to potty and in she runs. I sit, she watches {very intently} to where the pee comes from, she gets the toilet paper for me, watches how I wipe, steps back so I can pull up my pants, looks to see, then when I give her the okay, goes over to flush the toilet. Then off we go.

Well, last night, I was on the phone with my Mom and Bug looks at me, babbles something, and takes off for the upstairs. Hmmm. I follow. I ask where we're going. What we're doing? When she gets to the top of the stairs she high tails it for the bathroom. She runs to the toilet and lifts the lid while doing this little dance. The only logical thing to ask at this point is, "Do you have to go potty?" And SHE NODS YES. Okay then. So, I pull down her pants, take off her diaper, and plop her on the toilet. She holds on like a big girl and tries with all her might. I keep telling her to pee or poop {at this point you may think I'm crazy, but when it's bath time, just before I put her in the tub the last thing I do is tell her to pee and 90% of the time I'll take off a very hot, wet diaper} and she's kicking her little legs making this wee little grunting sound. She sits very patiently for awhile then gets off. She turns around and looks in. Nothing. Bummer. We put her diaper back on. A few minutes later she wants to try again, so we do. Same routine. Nothing happened. She looked. She was sad. She knew there was nothing to flush. So, off we went.

She was totally unphased by this entire event, but I am not. I am super excited. I have no earthly idea if this was a fluke or if Avarie will be taking it upon herself to go potty like a big girl. She doesn't miss a thing {obviously}, so who knows. Can a 15 month old really potty train themselves? Is it too early? Am I overly optimistic for even considering this remote possibility? Should I push the idea or just let her be? Should we get her a little training potty? Help! Give me something oh wise and wonderful parents of the world! The only thing I want is for Avarie to go at her own pace...but if this is it; then we need some guidance.

Take the pledge, please. Because I love you.

2010-02-22T20:52:00.005-05:00

I am a HUGE Oprah fan.

She speaks of reason, truth, heartbreak, everyday life. She speaks of change. One of her recent shows talked about the dangers of driving while talking and/or texting on your cell phone.

Did you know while driving and talking you are FOUR times more likely to wind up in a crash?

And that texting while driving is EIGHT times more deadly than drinking and driving?

Scary stuff, huh?

So, Eric and I have taken The No Phone Zone Pledge and we ask that you do the same. We ask because we see the stupidity and carelessness of people lost in conversation on their phones while trying to drive, smoke a cigarette, eat, put on makeup, change the radio, play with their iPod, scream at the kids, the list goes on. We ask because we're equally as guilty as the next person. We ask because we know what it's like to hang up the phone and realize we have no memory of the drive from point A to point B. We ask because it's a matter of life or death. Yours, mine, my child's...and we're not taking it lightly.

The next time you're on the road; pay close attention. Can you just get in the car and drive without any distraction? No radio. No cell phone. No iPod. Just you and the THOUSANDS of pounds of metal you are controlling? It's hard. I know. Because I'm trying to do the same. My phone is on silent so I cannot be tempted. My focus is on the road {and the smiling face beaming at me in the rear view mirror}. I am responsible for her life, for mine, and for the car I am driving. The car is not the time for me to be relaxing, enjoying a cup of coffee, and rocking out. And I'm pleading for you all to think about this, too.

There are three levels of commitment. 1. No driving and texting. 2. No texting and will not talk unless using a hands free device. -and- 3. You will do neither while driving. You will pull off the road to take a call.

I have chosen option 3 because if I'm going to do it; I'm going to do it all the way...especially if the most amazing creature on earth is sitting in the backseat behind me grinning and chatting away. Eric has chosen option 2, however, it immediately rolls over to option 3 when he has Bug.

What does this mean for you and me and all our heart to hearts? They'll just have to be on solid ground. If you call and I'm in the car. I will not answer. Leave me a message though...I'll happily get back to you! If I happen to call you and find out you're in the car; I will ask to call you at a better time...because I love you. And honestly, I'd prefer you just ignore my call if you're on the road...because I want you to remain focused and get to your destination safely. So, again, I ask you to please take the No Phone Zone Pledge so we may all get to our destinations with as little distraction as possible. {Eric will also be following these same rules with you dear friends and family. *grin*}

Just remember...it's because Eric, I, Bug, someone, somebody LOVES YOU.

{And I ask that if you do take the pledge to share with me under the comments section. And if you don't and think this post is crazy; I'd still like to hear your thoughts!}

Underwear head

2010-02-12T15:05:00.002-05:00

The many faces

2010-02-10T14:16:00.005-05:00

I have a small window of opportunity {another snow day} while the baby sleeps. Eric is running a few errands. Even the kitties are asleep. Blitzkrieg is at my feet with her little paw covering her face; quietly snoring. {She's slept like that since she was a kitten. } I hope this winter you're all staying safe and keeping warm and cozy. I've missed the snow and am not complaining. I find it a blessing...in the long run we need this. And I always find it to be so very peaceful. As for these pictures, well, I will let these photos {captured Saturday, February 6th, 2010} speak for themselves. Enjoy!

Awww...kitty.

2010-01-14T20:30:00.003-05:00

I uploaded this video to my Facebook profile and people can't get enough. I thought I should share with everyone.

This is a very, very tolerable Azi and a very, very lovey little girl. While it seems Azi is always trying to get away; don't let him fool you. If this girl starts to wail too loudly, he will appear to check on her. He is always near when she has cookies or crackers because she shares. He plays a wicked game of cat-n-mouse with her...he even changes roles and is the mouse...allowing Avarie to chase him. Azizi is our loyal watch kitty. He loves this little girl to pieces. As much as she loves him.

Free Board Book from Leap Frog!

2010-01-09T19:37:00.001-05:00

For a Free Board Book from Leap Frog ($10.99 value) go to leapfrog.com/freebookparen

ting

Found this in my Parenting magazine. All you do is set up an account, create a "Learning Path", and select whatever Leap Frog toy you own from a list. Since it did not ask for a serial number or anything, I'm guessing even if you don't own any Leap Frog toys, you could fib and still get yourself a free book. Or get one for a friend, family member, for a gift, you get the point.

Offer is valid until 3/1/10.

Again, website is leapfrog.com/freebookparenting

Sounded too good to be true, but it was super easy and no strings attached.

Happy 2010!

2010-01-03T17:30:00.003-05:00

I've been MIA. I know. I've been selfishly absorbing every last little moment of Avarie while I could. I love working in a dental office for the single most reason that we're closed for almost all of December. While we must budget like you cannot imagine; there isn't enough money in the world to make up for the time spent with my darling little whirling dervish.

December was full of many firsts as you can imagine. Her first birthday. Virginia's first huge snow. Her first sled ride. Her first vomiting flu {don't worry, she shared with Mommy}. It was also full of some seconds. Her second surgery {tubes in her ears}. Her second Christmas {although it felt like her first since she did more than just lay around}. And even a third, as Katherine pointed out. Her third calendar year of life. Avarie was born in 2008, rambled through 2009, and is now in 2010. Holy moly! Where does the time go?! It's been awesome! Hopefully, now that everyone is back into the swing of things - at least we will be tomorrow - I'll be back into a routine and can get back into a groove with blogging as well. I apologize for the lapse, but as you parents will know, soaking up every last second of time with your little ones is priceless. I'm heeding your advice and enjoying every last moment.

Our little giggle monster.

Checking out her pretties.

Eric, Avarie, and I Christmas Eve 2009.

Avarie rockin' her Auntie Dama's cap and scarf.

Our little Panther. Grrr, baby.

12 months, 3 days, 40 minutes old

2009-12-07T12:36:00.003-05:00

Avarie, my sweet, you are officially a toddler.

It's happened so very fast.

I remember finding out I was pregnant like it was yesterday. I remember being pregnant like it was yesterday. And I remember giving birth to you like it was yesterday. And here we are. Celebrating one whole year of your life.

People warned me it would go by in the blink of an eye and I have heeded their warnings as best I could. I have tried to hang on to every last moment because only 355 days ago you were so tiny we didn't have clothes big enough to fit you. Now, we can't seem to keep up.

My darling, my sweet, I want you to know I wouldn't trade anything in the world for you.

You are simply amazing.

Your Daddy and I love looking at the world through your eyes. We love watching you learn, think, discover, get excited when you accomplish a new task. We're proud that you're already learning what love is and that you know how to love and give hugs. We hate seeing you hurt and would give our lives to take away your pain. Hearing your laughter is the most beautiful sound on earth. Neither one of us could imagine this world without you, love.

As we celebrate your birth again, know that I love you more than all the stars in the sky, all the sand on all the beaches, all the leaves in Virginia. I love you to the moon and back. You, my darling, are the greatest gift I've ever received.

Happy Birthday Avarie Kathryn.

Is the 3rd time really that charming?

2009-11-08T22:02:00.003-05:00

We took Bug to the peds again.

Yep, another ear infection.

This time {different doctor} said "ear infection and perforated ear drum". Meaning, fluid from the ear infection built up rupturing her ear drum.

I feel like a terrible, horrible parent.

Aside from waking up this morning to see an "explosion" of waxy gunk coming out of her ear there were NO signs. Nothing. Zilch. Nada.

No ear tugging. No fever {not even low-grade}. NOTHING.

We went on a hunch.

We were right. {Not that we wanted to be in this case.}

So, we're trying omnicef instead of amoxicillin and going back for a post op when the meds are done. {The post op is key as we haven't done that for the previous two and for all we know she's never truly been rid of them.}

Wish us luck.

And send Bug some healing vibes, pretty please. With a cherry on top.

Thanks. xoxo

Wobbly world

2009-11-03T20:11:00.002-05:00

Bug is so ridiculously smart. I know every parent says that about their child, but I swear, she really is. This past week[end] she learned how to go down the stairs, get off the couch, get off our bed {which makes my heart stop since it's practically as high as I am and she has no fear}, and really take some serious steps.

I am so proud my heart is bursting at the seams.

It is also breaking into pieces.

While I'm as happy as can be that she's learning how to walk, I'm super sad that she's learning how to walk.

When I got home and set her down tonight, I had her facing me and she proudly took some wobbly steps toward me. I was smiling and kissing her as she snuggled into me...then it hit. She's growing up.

My. baby. is. growing. up.

{And then came the tears.}

Happy, heartbreaking tears, but tears nonetheless. Maybe I'm PMSing, maybe I'm tired, or maybe this is what loving your child and being a parent is all about. Either way, I wasn't prepared for the wave of emotion that hit me tonight over a few wobbly steps.

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-02T20:50:00.000-05:00

This Halloween was Avarie's first Halloween. We kept it low-key. Aside from dressing her up as an adorable bright blue peacock, that is. We went to the Downtown Mall and did one casual lap so she could see {and of course, be seen} all the little kids in costumes. I'm still not over the bronchitis that's kicking my butt or we would have gone to the Mall for another round. Below you will find pictures of our very proud, very vibrant, and very pretty little peacock. Enjoy!

When the Amoxicillin kicks in...

2009-10-25T22:09:00.008-04:00

...little miss Avarie goes on an exploring, balancing expedition all her own.

What a stinker!

{I am head over heels for this little girl.}

Oooh, what's this?

Hee, hee, you see me!

If I just sit here for a minute....

Oooh, what's this?!

Spacing off. Or scheming.

Scheming.

Balancing, oh so delicately and so proudly, on the edge of the basket.

Always full of giggles.

Getting down.

Such a big girl.

I laughed so hard I almost peed myself!

2009-10-21T22:08:00.004-04:00

Thank you for one of THE BEST LAUGHS I've had in awhile Katherine...so good I had to share!

DON'T FART IN BED

This is a story about a couple who had been happily married for years. The only friction in their marriage was the husband's habit of farting loudly every morning when he awoke. The noise would wake his wife and the smell would make her eyes water and make her gasp for air. Every morning she would plead with him to stop ripping them off because it was making her sick.

He told her he couldn't stop it and that it was perfectly natural. She told him to see a doctor; she was concerned that one day he would blow his guts out.

The years went by and he continued to rip them out!

One Thanksgiving morning as she was preparing the turkey for dinner and he was upstairs sound asleep, she looked at the bowl where she had put the turkey innards and neck, gizzard, liver and all the spare parts and a malicious thought came to her.

She took the bowl and went upstairs where her husband was sound asleep and gently pulling back the bed covers, she pulled back the elastic waistband of his underpants and emptied the bowl of turkey guts into his shorts. Some time later she heard her husband waken with his usual trumpeting which was followed by a blood curdling scream and the sound of frantic footsteps as he ran into the bathroom. The wife could hardly control herself as she rolled on the floor laughing, tears in her eyes! After years of torture she reckoned she had got him back pretty good.

About twenty minutes later, her husband came downstairs in his blood stained underpants with a look of horror on his face. She bit her lip as she asked him what was the matter.

He said, "Honey, you were right. All these years you have warned me and I didn't listen to you."

"What do you mean?" asked his wife.

"Well, you always told me that one day I would end up farting my guts out, and today it finally happened. But by the grace of God, some Vaseline, and two fingers, I think I got most of them back in."

A swing in the park

2009-10-20T21:24:00.004-04:00

This was a play date {for the adults as well as the babies} a few weeks ago. We'd gone for a walk to a neighborhood close to ours. Turner and Avarie had a great time playing together as they always do. Eric and I had a great time with Todd and Katherine as we always do. Enjoy!

Turner and Avarie {one of the first times I've seen her look very Behounek - my Mom's side}

Individual swing time...they loved it!

Little Miss...these were taken on her 10 month birthday.

Hanging out.

What's on your head Avarie?

They're always touching each other...it's so sweet.

Poll results and a sick baby

2009-10-19T20:43:00.002-04:00

My little poll ended this past Saturday. Did you vote?

It seems the majority of people think the best wait time between siblings is the 2-3 year range.

I don't agree or disagree. Honestly, if we had the money, I'd already be pregnant. But babies cost money. They are forever. {Which, for the record, is part of the reason we waited so long to have one.}

We have two other hold ups {besides the obvious moohla}. Health. I had gestational diabetes with Avarie. Selfish as it may seem; every time I get pregnant from here on out not only does my risk of gestational diabetes increase, but my risk of diabetes later in life increases. I have enough to deal with what with migraines, year round allergies, Raynaud's disease, and all. I really do not want to gamble with an increased risk of diabetes.

Second hold up. Fear. Fear that even though we were told numerous times NOTHING we did - nothing I did - caused Avarie's CCAM, the FEAR is still there. The fear that we would, that we could, willingly bring another child into this world to cause a repeat and make them endure the same kind of pain Avarie went through...I'm not sure I could forgive myself.

So, yeah. If I think about it. No baby. If I leap {like in the case of Avarie}...baby!

~~~~~~

On another note; Avarie has her second ear infection for the year. And it's a DOUBLE ear infection. Wooohooo! She's been sick for the last couple weeks and this morning woke up with a fever. We took her in and it was in both ears. She's back on the amoxicillian, so hopefully this kicks it in the rear.

See ya!

2009-10-12T19:30:00.000-04:00

Suck it.

2009-10-11T17:10:00.005-04:00

{My very happy husband - on his lunch break - vacuuming.}

We got a new vacuum.

A DC28 Animal by Dyson.

It's awesome! I have never been more turned on by an inanimate object.

It sucks so hard you can barely move it around the floor!

With two cats, a 10 month old, and two allergy sufferers it was a much needed purchase. We're so happy with it we've been vacuuming like every day.

Versus once a month.

Hmmm...maybe we didn't need a new vacuum after all. Maybe we just needed TO vacuum....

Did you miss us?

2009-10-10T22:50:00.001-04:00

We went a tad MIA there didn't we. Everything was moving along and then WHAM!, Avarie got sick. Holy moly! Nobody told us how much a little virus can wreak such immense havoc upon your life. Here's the gist of it:

Friday, Septemeber 25th: Avarie hasn't been feeling well since Mon-Tues so, just to be safe, we took her to the peds. She was running a low-grade fever and woke up with a rash on her chest. Our ped was happy to see the rash and said she had a virus. {Cannot remember the name, so please don't ask.}

Saturday, September 26th: All seems to be going well. Katherine and I take the babies with us to Here Wee Grow Again {another Semi-Annual Consignment Sale in C'ville}. Eric came to get her as she was in no mood to shop. I made out like a bandit and her wardrobe doubled. She seems to be on the upward mend.

Sunday, September 27th: We ran errands. Avarie fell asleep. Neither of us touched her thinking she's resting...yay! When we got home and I went to get her out of her carrier she. was. on. FIRE. Holy shit! Her temp was 103. We called the ped and they were going to ask the doctor and get back to us. In the meantime, Avarie sits up and pukes every last bit of her stomach contents down my front. We were not waiting for a call back. We raced to the peds. Her temp jumped to 104.4. And she had a severe ear infection. And she had to have a shot of amoxicillian because she just threw up. And I gave myself a migraine from worry/stress and Eric has to give me a shot of Imitrex when we get home. Lovely. Lovely day, indeed.

Monday, September 28th: Fever is up and down, but breaks early afternoon. Diaper rash starts. Avarie is super lethargic. So not herself.

Tuesday, September 30th: Fever jumps back up. Diaper rash is HORRIBLE. Thankfully another pair of Mommy eyes {thank you Katherine} suggests yeast from amoxicillian. Dammit! Poor baby is in so much pain.

Wednesday, September 30th: We get a script for yeasty diaper rash called in and begin treatment. Seems to help. Avarie is slowly starting to become Avarie again.

Thursday, October 1st: I begrudgingly send Avarie to daycare. They do a wonderful job checking her bottom every half hour per our request. She's doing great.

By the weekend she was pretty much back to normal. Her diaper rash didn't clear until early this past week. We also think she was cutting some teeth, although they have yet to show themselves. All in all, the fever was way scarier {at least to me} than her surgery. At least I was able to prepare, ask question, know what to expect. Neither one of us had any clue a fever could feel like that! Nor did we know what to expect when a little one has a fever. So scary!

Below are some pictures of the week during all this fun stuff. Hopefully, now I'll be able to get all caught up again. So, expect to see an overload in the next few days. Enjoy!

Avarie and Turner playing with Big Bird {Saturday, September 26th}

You are so tasty...I cannot resist!

Avarie and Turner in their matching Baby Gap velour outfits that we found for super cheap at Here Wee Grow Again. {Tuesday, September 29th}

Don't they look so cute and cuddly?! {And Avarie so pale and sickly? Poor Bug!}

Who me? I'm not climbing the stairs. {Tuesday, September 29th}

Avarie cuddled up on the couch watching Baby Einstein Animals {her FAVORITE}.

This picture is oddly familiar to me. Riiiiggghhht...'cause it's like looking at a picture of her Uncle Ryan {my baby brother} when he was little. Scary. Very, very scary. Do you see that twinkle in her eye?!

Master of the paci.

Eating chips from Chipotle. Great for teething! {Wednesday, September 30th}

I can do it myself Momma.

2009-09-25T19:13:00.005-04:00

We found these little liquid fruit packs at Whole Foods and thought what the heck. Easy to travel with and Avarie might like them. Understatement of the year. She loved them.

She knew exactly what to do with that little pack. Squeeze and suck. Absolutely amazing!

And that hard {BPA free} plastic feels so good on those teeth she's trying to cut. {I edited w/Photoshop...I had a free moment. So bright and pretty, eh?}

On a side note; Avarie has her first official virus. While it sucks that she is truly sick {runny nose, congestion, phlegmy cough, achy, low-grade fever}, we are blessed. She is almost 10 months old and this is our first, doctor diagnosed virus. I'm hoping her strong little immune system will help her fight through what seems to be looking like a possibly nasty flu season.

I LOVE a good sale!

2009-09-23T23:06:00.003-04:00

Guess. Guess how much I paid for these three articles of clothing from Baby Gap? Got a number? Bet you're not even close. Let me give you the original grand total first. {$51.45 including tax} Before I give the best part away let me tell you a quick story.

C'ville has a semi-annual children's clothing exchange sale called the Lollipop shop. It's supposed to be the way to buy gently used children's clothes at reasonable prices. Well, we stopped in on Saturday and those prices were not so reasonable. We found used Old Navy baby clothes for $10/item. Old Navy is having a sale at this very moment "Buy 2 Item for $10". Need I say more?

To be fair, each individual person does do their own pricing {as it is a consignment sale}. They also start to go on "markdown" mid-week and by this weekend will be 50% and 75% off. That is when Katherine and I will be going with our wee ones to hopefully catch some super duper good deals. That being said {do you have your price?} I could most definitely bring myself to spend a whopping {drum roll please} $13.62 including tax on these BRAND NEW items.

That's a 74% savings...just in case you were wondering. *sigh* Man, I love a good deal!

Nine months!

2009-09-20T23:06:00.003-04:00

Okay, okay...so she's now 9 months and 16 days, but really, who's counting? At her 6 month visit, she weighed 14 pounds 8 ounces and was 24 inches. This time...well, this time you can read below!

Avarie being a very good girl and waiting for Dr. Armengol.

SMILE!

Weight, height, head circumference.

Avarie and our amazing pediatrician Dr. Armengol. {Unfortunately Baby Bug is still a little doctor shy after surgery. :( }

...so i put my hands up, they're playing my song

2009-09-12T19:44:00.002-04:00

When I said she loved this video I wasn't kidding....

What does Avarie see?

2009-09-11T14:31:00.004-04:00

This was made for me when I was a wee one by my brilliantly talented Canadian cousin Sooze. It has since been re-framed and is the very first thing you see when walking into her room.

These totally cool wood letters were hand made with love by Avarie's Aunt Tabby. Tabby's Dad is an amazing carpenter and Tabby also has her Dad's talent {you should see the gun cabinet she made for my brother!}. I asked her if it would be possible to make these letters for Avarie and viola!

Tabby painted them white and added the touch of purple in the curl. Eric and I picked out the purple ribbon, glued them on, and I tied the bows to hang them. This totally completed her room. Thank you Tabby...these letters are AWESOME!

This is her Flensted mobile. It consists of five delicate butterflies that "can be assembled in your own color combo." We could stare at it for hours. We want one for our room!

This is the newest addition to her room. It's the alphabet in French. What's even better is that it's actually a $4 piece of wrapping paper from a high end boutique called Creme de la Creme. After buying the wrapping paper, we went straight to Michael's to look for a frame. I was only able to find a black frame in the correct size, but for $20 and some leftover white paint...oohlala!

I love a good bargain. And I love even more how her room has it's own personality.

Asking for your support

2009-09-08T21:50:00.003-04:00

A friend from high school asked for help in spreading the word and supporting equal rights and responsibilities for ALL families. I completely agree and am doing just that:

I support the domestic partnership law in Washington State.
That's why I just signed a pledge to work to retain Washington State's Domestic Partnership law. We must ask our friends and family to "approve" Referendum 71.
The question on the November ballot will be: Should this bill be approved or rejected? To retain the domestic partnership law we will need to vote approved.
Please join me in taking the pledge to retain the domestic partnership law and do your part by asking others to take the pledge. Use the link below to take the pledge.

http://approvereferendum71.org/take-action

OR

http://www.wafst.org/

Thank you...much love, k.

God bless all the buggers, too!

2009-09-07T21:31:00.005-04:00

My Mom always told me when I was a little girl I was fearless. Of all creatures big and small. I also diligently said my prayers every night and while praying for God to bless Mommy, Daddy, Nana, Bumpa, etc., I also asked that God would "...bless all the buggers, too."

I may not share those same sentiments today {especially after waking Saturday morning to find a small black spider crawling over Avarie and I in bed -- Aaaahhhh!!!}, but I want Avarie to possess that very same love and innocence I did as a child. From the pictures below I think you'll see we're off to a good start!

{There is a fantastic video at the end. I have been making the video a smaller size so you'll be able to access to "view in full screen" button. Enjoy!}

me and avarie.

avarie's nature lesson. what objects from mother nature do you see?

beautiful angel. playing with her stick...ahem, magical wand.

oooohhh, look what daddy found!

a horned beetle.

he was most impressive. very strong. even i worked up the courage to hold him.

our sweet baby girl.

happy 9 month birthday sweet angel

2009-09-04T22:48:00.007-04:00

YOU

can crawl super-duper fast.

love to explore.

can pull yourself up, push your shopping cart across the room, or creep along the furniture.

have two teeth.

can feed yourself cereal puffs with your "pinchers".

still refuse to drink your bottle anything close to room temperature. You demand warm liquids.

will inadvertently let go of your shopping cart, the couch, or my leg and will stand momentarily before plopping on your booty.

have a dimpled smile that lights up a room.

love Azi and Blitzy and smile whenever they are near. The feeling, however, is not quite mutual.

are not a morning person {like your momma}.

wear your bracelet all day, every day.

love to pull your books off your shelf and read them.

must have your blankie to sleep.

are intrigued by the vacuum and love to chase it when Daddy vacuums.

"sing" aaahhhmmm when I feed you baby food.

love to help fold laundry...especially after it's already folded.

have a super adorable face you make when you're excited. You purse your lips into an O, open your eyes extra wide, coo "OOOooooo", and point to the cause of excitement. It's too cute.

can wave "hello" and "good-bye".

smile whenever you see Mommy or Daddy...and our hearts melt every time.

~~Happy, happy nine month birthday sweet girl!~~

We love you to the moon and back. xoxo

Bang! Bang! Bang!

2009-09-02T21:12:00.002-04:00

The lighting on this was way darker after uploading to YouTube, but it's cute nontheless.

Avarie had crawled over to this table, pulled herself up, and bang!, bang!, bang!, bang!. She is all OVER the place!

{Todd & Katherine are our wonderful neighbors and dear friends...we always joke about what each couple can hear through the wall; hence the comment about them coming over from hearing all the ruckus.}

Enjoy!

That's my girl!

2009-08-31T20:29:00.003-04:00

Check out this video. I got it from Cassie at Southern Domestic Goddess. She went to school with a couple of these guys {lucky dog - how much fun do they seem?!}.

I happened to have Avarie sitting on my lap when I hit play.
Oh. my. goodness.
She snapped her little head to the screen and watched it over and over and over and over again. That's right. We watched that beachy-keen little video four times in a row.

Momma likes. Oh, Momma likes.

Post surgery update

2009-08-22T17:10:00.002-04:00

Well, it's been over a week since Avarie had her surgery. As many of you know surgery did not go as we had planned, but it was successful and that is all that matters. The goal was to remove the lower left lobe of her lung and Dr. Rodgers exactly that.

There were two deciding factors for opening her up. One was because her pulmonary artery was bigger than expected meaning the lower lobe was being used more than originally thought {lower lobe was 2/3 full of cysts}. The other was because there was a larger cyst that had grown onto the upper lobe. Dr. Rodgers said he tried for an hour, unsuccessfully, to separate the two, but did not feel it was safe to proceed by scope. He then chose to open her to separate the pulmonary artery as well as the cyst. A small portion of her upper lobe was shaved off to remove that cyst. By the time she was closed up, drainage tube placed, and xray done, Dr. Rodgers said her upper lobe had already expanded to fill the space of the lower lobe. He was more than pleased with this {as were we!}.

Avarie went through some bumps with pain, IV's, swelling, but her fighting {dare I say stubborn?} spirit was always there. We worked hard at pain management when we got home. She literally hit the floor running and played so hard the first day. We, as parents, didn't think to slow her down so she wouldn't be sore the next day, but we learned. She learned as well.She takes her pain meds maybe once a day {only if needed}. She does a good job of letting us know when she's hurting. Our biggest concern or hill to climb is minor post traumatic stress disorder with her sleeping. She'll wake up from a dead sleep screaming. Our pediatrician explained that she just went through a very traumatic event where every time she was awakened it was for something unpleasant...so it's a bit of a struggle and as he said it will, every day is getting better. It'll just take time.

Aside from the sleep, oh, and the eating...she's not eating like she used to...basically our schedule has been blown to hell...aside from that she is doing GREAT. In fact, I'd say she's doing better than great because all we're doing is running around after her...picking up after the path of destruction that is Hurricane Avarie, repeating the word NO!, making sure she doesn't go too fast on her shopping cart, baby-proofing, you get the idea. She's kicking our butts right now. And we couldn't be more thankful, more grateful for this outcome. Thank you all for your {continued} support.

The following videos are taken day two (shopping) and day three (bug ride) after surgery.

Sassy, sassy

2009-08-09T14:25:00.002-04:00

It's been a long, long week. Between long hours at work {my co-worker *bless her heart* broke her ankle three weeks ago and I've been helping w/her job}, a teething baby {cut her 1st tooth on the her 8th month birthday}, explosive diarrhea {related either to the teething or a possible virus}, a diaper rash unlike any other I've even seen, a baby who screams HOLY HELL if you lay her on her back because she knows she's going to have her diaper changed, a baby who's not eating, the anticipation of surgery, the lack of sleep, the period I've had for three effing weeks now {yay!, here comes number 4!!!}, the uncontrollable mood swings {including hysterical laughter, crying, staring at walls, and rage - which is directed at my husband}, a house that is a complete and utter wreck; Avarie, the smart little cookie that she is, has now picked up yelling at Eric after I do. This is a perfect reminder for Eric and I that our wee little Bug is sooooo much stronger than we give her credit. Enjoy.

Denial rears its ugly head...Avarie's surgery is next week!

2009-08-03T22:27:00.004-04:00

I don't know where to start. I don't want to say I've been in denial, but that's as good a word as any. I've been trying not to focus on the date {August 12th}...or the surgery itself for that matter. If I focus, I'll worry. If I worry, my mind will spiral out of control. It will go to worst case scenario. It's not that I don't want to hope for the best; to pray for the best; to say with utter and positive determination, "She will be fine. Removing a lobe of a lung on an 8 month old is routine. It's cake compared to other surgeries." But here's the deal folks, I love this child more than I love anything, and I mean anything, on the face of this earth. When I look into her face I see all that is good; I see heaven. There could not be anything more perfect, more divine. And I made her. My blood flows in her veins and I am petrified of losing her. I am terrified of something going wrong. I am scared that the surgery will not be able to be done endoscopically, but they'll have to open her chest. I'm scared that after surgery her tube won't drain properly or there will be an infection. My heart aches at the possibility, nay the reality, she will be in pain and there will be nothing I will be able to do to take that pain away for her. The Good Lord knows I would give anything to trade places with her, but that is not the case. So I once again ask all of you for prayers, positive vibes, and warm fuzzies. Please pray for Eric and I to have strength to lean on one another, pray for all of us to have peace, pray that little Avarie Bug continues to remain strong and healthy, pray her surgery goes smoothly, quickly, successfully, and has a short, relatively painless recovery, pray for her anesthesiologist, her surgeon Dr. Bradley Rodgers, and her nurses. I do have faith. I know we are the best hands possible. Literally. Dr. Rodgers is a nationally known ped surgeon: we couldn't be more blessed. It's just hitting me a little hard today. I thought I had an extra week and I just realized it's next week. So, I'm trying to hold it together, but I'm only human. So, thank you in advance for helping hold all of us up.

CT scan of Avarie's chest {taken in May - reposted}. Cysts are the dark blob...where the cursor is pointing.

Our little monkey

2009-07-27T22:33:00.002-04:00

Our little monkey did something extra special at daycare today. She decided to pull herself up onto one of the baby chairs and push/walk it across the room. Yep, my will-be-eight-month-old-next-week daughter is already pulling herself up and pushing herself across rooms. Thank the Lord my hair is blonde because I think I may be starting to gray!

Here's a peek of our little monkey on Saturday night. She was wound up and rearing to go!

Holy Super Duper Savings at NY&Co Batman!

2009-07-26T22:24:00.005-04:00

Eric's coworker Sarah told me New York and Company was having a HUGE sale. And by HUGE I mean a sale worthy of a day spent in a mall around yippy, bratty teens to find amazing deals; deals that will knock those flip flops off! NY&Co is having a 70% EVERYTHING in the store sale.

I am not kidding.

I would not joke about such fantastic finds.

Most importantly I would not joke about saving money; especially when our funds are low.

But I will tell you this...I came home with 15 different articles of clothing that would have originally cost a whopping $372.33 + tax. Ha, ha ha ha, and I only spent $111.70 {which averages each article of clothing to be around $7.45/piece}. I am one happy, happy girl who doesn't like to shop, but certainly didn't mind this trip.

Might even have to go back and see if I can find a few more pieces at bargain dollar deals.

Go Baby Go!

2009-07-21T22:04:00.001-04:00