te and baby

Goal for the week

2012-01-22T19:37:00.000-07:00

This week my goal is to get crafty.
I've been having serious creative block, and I think it's just what I need to feel more like myself this week.

Hobby Lobby? El and I will see you tomorrow.

So, tell me! What's your goal for the week?

Also, thank you to everyone who has voted for me. How'd I get so lucky to have such great readers?

I'm annoying

2012-01-21T11:45:00.000-07:00

But...I was wondering if you could do me a little favor?

What?
You will!?

You are so nice.

Okay, so remember how I entered to win tickets to the SNAP conference? Well, now it's time to vote. The person with the most votes next Friday wins the tickets.

So, here I am asking you...no...BEGGING you to vote for me.
You can go here to do so. I'm number 7.

No really... Please click here and vote for #7!

Be sure to leave me a comment and tell me if you did or not. I might just be overwhelmed with gratitude and want to send one of you a little somethin' something.

Our week in Instagrams

2012-01-20T10:39:00.000-07:00

I've been bad at taking pictures lately. I mean, for a while there, I was so great at bringing my camera with me. But now? Now it's back to the ol' instagram for me. Sad, but convenient!

So, here's our week (plus a few days) in Instagrams, to kind of catch up!

1. We walked to our friend's house one day. I had a topknot in my hair, and she wore a hat. But it looked the same. hahah. (P.S. my shadow is making me look ginormous, but I was just wearing El in a wrap, I swear)

2. Tilly is a genius dog. She put that tag in her mouth that says "made in China"...How did she know pugs originate from China? Seriously, brilliant.

3. El is all about treats in my bag. At church, she rummaged through everything just to find her sweet potato treats to eat.

4. I love that she loves her books. She likes them more than any of her toys.

5. El got a new coat. She isn't so sure about it. That, and she can barely move.

6. Oscar and his rolls. Such a cuddly boy (sometimes).

7. Baby E loves to roll all around downstairs. If I look away for one second, I find her way across the house. So funny.

8. She also loves door stops and they can entertain her for hours.

9. Lookin' stylish in her sunglasses.

10. Trying to make an instagram point that breastfeeding isn't gross.

11. I learned how to make handwriting fonts. Best thing ever! Want one?

12. My friend drew this picture of El on her iPad. Whoa.

Content

2012-01-20T00:47:00.001-07:00

I tried to cheat the system tonight. The baby sleeping system.

You see, these past few weeks baby e has been kind of a mama lover. She loves to wake up in the middle of the night and eat, simply so she can get a few more minutes of cuddle time in.
She'll suck for a few seconds, then just stare up at me--content. After that she breathes in deeply, lets out a little sigh, and closes her sweet little eyes... Only to wake up (screaming) when I try to lay her back in her crib. It's sad, but secretly I like it because it means she loves me.

So anyway... Tonight I stayed up late talking to an old friend. It was so great to catch up. But then, suddenly it was 12 am and I knew I needed to head to bed.

So, I snuck up the stairs and crept past E's room.

For some reason, I stopped right outside the door. I decided I should dream feed her so that hopefully she wouldn't wake up a few short hours later for our cuddle session. See? Trying to cheat the system here.

Only... The joke was on me. Because here I am. An hour later. Cuddling my babe. Breathing in her perfect baby scent. Twirling her hair between my fingers. Whispering to her about how wonderful she is.

And, this time, I find myself being the one to breathe in deeply. To sigh-- because at this moment, I am perfectly content.

Midweek Confessions

2012-01-18T10:13:00.000-07:00

I confess that

...I'm still deathly afraid of my garage. Even though Tyler (the heroic mouse hunter) caught the mouse and the mouse traps have been empty for 3 days running. I just know the second I go out there I'll see another one.

...I almost bought leggings to wear as pants. I didn't care that all my cellulite was showing either. They were just waaay too comfortable. Luckily, baby girl needed to eat, so we had to leave the store with no purchases. Whew!

...I really want to throw a Pinterest party, but part of me is too lazy and the other part is too scared. I don't know why.

...I can never stick to my grocery list when I go grocery shopping. There's always something that jumps out at me that I just have to get.

SNAP Conference

2012-01-17T19:21:00.001-07:00

K...This is an annoying post...But, I'm trying to win tickets to the SNAP Conference, so whatev.

I am dying to go to this! It's a craft and DIY social media conference and a great way to meet other bloggers like me.

Basically, I would die if I won (in a good way)...I totally deserve to win this because it's all I've been talking to Tyler about for the last...wlelll....Long time! Plus, I really need to learn how to up my social media game!

Do you want to win? You can link up a post and try. But honestly, I wouldn't waste your time because THIS IS MINE! :) (just kidding)

Goal for the Week

2012-01-15T20:28:00.001-07:00

So...How did your goal for last week turn out? Did you accomplish it? Tell me all about it. Seriously, I need some motivation. Or, at least some good company.

My goal was a big. fat. fail. Which, is kind of okay with me because seeing that mouse really put a damper on my wanting to be in the garage. Like, I can't even go in there anymore.
Luckily, Tyler has been home this long weekend, so when we need to go anywhere, he's been picking me up out front. Like a real date or something. It's so great.

Only...Today, before church, I decided to be really brave (because I thought there was no way the mouse was still around) and go to the car through the garage. So, I climbed in on the driver's side and crawled over onto the passenger seat so that the mouse couldn't have a chance to run over my feet. Tyler laughed at me. But, do you know what? The second I sat down and buckled my seat belt, I saw that stinkin' mouse again. I cried a little bit. But, don't tell Tyler that because he doesn't think mice are that big of a deal. But, of my gosh, I am losing sleep over it and wake up from dreams of mice eating my face.

Wow...Longest tangent ever.

The moral of the story is that I refuse to go organize my garage. Which is probably why there are mice in there to begin with, but don't you dare blame this on me!

Cleaning out the garage? That's Tyler's goal for the week.

My goal for the week is to be in bed by 11 at least three days this week. I probably won't be asleep...But, laying there early might help me fall asleep earlier? I don't know. We'll see!

What's your goal for the week?
And...Do you like mice?...Just because I need to know I'm not alone in this.

(ps I just got a comment on my last post saying that once you see one mouse, there's probably hundreds. Just kill me, okay? Operation "get me a cat now" has officially begun)

I hate mice

2012-01-14T12:25:00.000-07:00

This weekend has been so great so far. I kind of never want it to end! Tyler has been spoiling me like crazy for my birthday (that was yesterday), and I have been loving spending so much time with my family. So perfect!

Unfortunately, the worst thing happened yesterday.

I saw a mouse.
In my garage.

I'm terrified of mice! I can totally deal with spiders and snakes...But, show me a mouse and I will die. Right there on the spot.

I told Tyler we have to move now. Like, no questions asked. Or, we need to get a cat (RIP Gonny)...I just...Can't even think about it.

So, needless to say, my goal to clean out the garage this week didn't happen (I was planning on doing it today)...Ahh. Oh well. You win some, you lose some, right?

Anyway, here's my outfit for the day. Ya know, so I can link up to Steppin' out Saturday?

I'm lovin' wearing bright red these days.

Fill in the blank Friday

2012-01-12T20:15:00.000-07:00

This post is for Fill in the Blank Friday at the little things we do!

1. The last thing I ate was pizza. sorry diet! .

2. The last song I listened to was "Little Sack of Sugar" with El (clearly we google her name sometimes)...It's El's new favorite song now.

3. Using the letters in my name I can spell {Erika}...a are air i irk rie... .

4. If I had to dress in one color for the rest of my life I would pick probably blue...Just so I could wear jeans .

5. If you were to look in my bag right now you'd find my camera, wallet, diapers, wipes, toys, dum, and lipstick .

6. When I finish filling in the blanks I'm going to catch up on my blog reading .

7. My all time favorite song to dance to is I can't think of one right now. I'm so boring! .

El's drawers

2012-01-11T10:45:00.043-07:00

(Like, the kind that hold her clothes).

Lately, I've been going a little crazy trying to organize baby E's clothes. The girl has a lot of them (but, not enough for me to stop buying more. It's just too fun)...

Unfortunately, I've been super lazy and most of her clothes were jammed into two drawers (out of the six her dresser has). Resulting in this.

Pretty, right? Umm. Not really.

So, I decided to spread her clothes out into separate drawers for each clothing item (shirts, pants, onsies, pajamas...You get the idea)

And the result was pretty satisfying. I found that she was wearing clothes we had forgotten about, plus the cleanliness of the drawers made my insides pretty happy.

Only...I wasn't super excited about the blah wood every time I opened a drawer. So, I began my search for some cute drawer liner. It was impossible to find something that was fun and fit in with her room.

Luckily, I came across this post and decided wrapping paper was way more fun (and a lot cheaper!).

I found rolls of wrapping paper for $1 at Michaels...So, I snatched two up and got to Mod Podging it to the inside of her drawers.

I love that I can remove the paper at anytime and change it out, if I feel the need (I'll probably be too lazy, though)

But, isn't it pretty in there?

Totally makes me want to put laundry away instead of keeping it in the basket all week...unfolded...

Plus, look how cute my helper was playing with her toys over there.

home goals

2012-01-10T22:31:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking a lot on ways to improve our house. We've lived here for almost two years (whoa!) and the only room that is completely decorated is El's.

Pathetic. F'real.

So, I've been thinking about a few "house goals" I have for the year. Which, is perfect timing, because the nester is hosting a little shebang over on her blog all about home goals!

Here are mine!

-Rip out all the carpet and put in different (prettier!) flooring.

-Paint the kitchen cabinets (I'm so scared!)

-Put in some pennant lights above our counter.

-Hang up more pictures and make this place really look like we live here.

-Remember that little line up in the picture. "It doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful"...I'm such a perfectionist when it comes to certain things, and I really think it's holding me back when it comes to the potential of my home!

And, heres my biggie:
-Stop comparing our house to our friends bigger and prettier houses.
We live in a twin home right now, and most of our friends who live around us live in nice, big, beautiful homes. We even had someone (not a friend, obviously) ask us why we lived in a twin home when we "could've just bought a real house", and I've been self (house?) conscious ever since. Totally want that house envy to go away.

Of course, I have lots of other things I'd love to add to my list...But, I want to keep it manageable so that (hopefully!) we can accomplish everything on there.

So...What are your house goals for the year?

head shoulders knees and toes

2012-01-10T16:37:00.001-07:00

I'm working on a real life post soon...But, for now? Here's a video of El and her favorite song (from yesterday).

The sound is kind of off with the picture...But, oh well. Isn't the laugh at the beginning the best?
She is the funniest and she loved looking at herself on iphoto!

/instagram (teandbaby) picture

I'm a mom now

2012-01-09T00:13:00.003-07:00

I took El to the park last week. By myself. It was really weird. Like, for some strange reason, being at the park with her alone made me a real mom. It was my crowning moment, I think.

Erika. The mom.

So, picture this. There all us mamas (who had never met) were at the park, pushing our kids in swings. We were all secretly eyeing the competition (El won by a landslide. My shoes lost in comparison to theirs, fyi), and making small talk about how old our babies were.

I'm totally a mom now. Toooo-tally.

Anyway...After a little bit of El swinging in the "BABIES SUCK!" swing (it had that written on it, and I laughed), we decided to go play in the grass. Baby E loved running her fingers through it and trying to eat all the dead leaves.

In that moment, I realized that I take lots of little things in life for granted.

I mean, grass is pretty cool, darn it! So is warm (ish) weather in January.

Y3W to sum up this post? cutest baby ever.

Goal for the Week

2012-01-08T20:36:00.001-07:00

I've been brainstorming all day about what I wanted my goal for this week to be. I thought about having it be to start working out again...But, that's too much work!

So, instead...My goal is to clean the garage. Or, at least make a space so Tyler can fit his Truck in there again.

It's not THAT bad, it just has lots of storage containers (full of craft stuff. Oops!) out that needs to be put back.

We'll see if it happens!

What's your goal for the week? Tell me alllll about it in the comments?

nothing to wear

2012-01-07T20:52:00.000-07:00

You know that moment when you're trying to get ready for the day, but realize that in your closet full of clothes you have nothing to wear? Yeah, that was totally me today.

I tried on at least seven different outfits. And they were all frumpy. Or had a hole in them...Or something. I don't know. But, it was depressing.

So, I decided to just throw on an old shirt and cardigan (pants too!) and call it good. I wasn't ever in love with my outfit today (I never am), but I decided to own it anyway.

(oops! My undershirt wasn't pulled down all the way)

Talk about depressing though. Hating all my clothes. So...I decided something. Every time I make x amount of money through The Fairy Blogmother or Oops! I Craft My Pants...I get to buy myself something new to wear.

I'm really excited about this, because it means maybe I'll try harder with marketing and whatev? We'll see.

For now, I'll try to make the best of the clothes I already own. I'm going to try to post what I wore every Saturday. Not because I have great style (I so so so don't even), but because I think it'll help me feel accountable and force me to try to make acceptable outfits with what I already own.

Oh yeah... and look how grumpy little miss looks.

Linking up to Harper's Happenings Steppin' out Saturday

El's resolutions (I think).

2012-01-04T00:55:00.001-07:00

I found these pictures of El from New Year's Eve.

We went to her grandma and grandpa's house to celebrate and ring in the new year (at 8pm...)

Anyway, her New Year's Resolutions include:

-cutting those freaking top teeth all the way through so she can sleep through the night again.
-try to ruin at least two outfits a day (whether it's from poop (I love writing "poop" on this blog, it's exhilarating) or sweet potato spit up)...She's succeeding so far.
-Being sure to look the other way when a camera is out (also succeeding).
and
-becoming the world's loudest screamer. Just because screaming is fun.

It's looking like this is gearing up to be a big year for the babe.

iPhone Chevron Wallpaper

2012-01-03T15:01:00.002-07:00

**Warning: This post is probably too long to be considered healthy**
______

Lately, I have been finding myself on my phone. A lot.
I feel like I'm always writing back to emails, checking blogs, texting, or whatever else all through the day.

I love that I have all of those things right at my fingertips. What I don't love? The fact that it's so easy to just "check something real quick", but then end up on my phone looking around way longer than I needed to be in the first place.

So...I decided that my phrase for the year would be "be present". This phrase applies to so many areas in my life. I feel like I show up to things and participate, but I'm never fully there because I always need to "check just one little thing" on my phone. Been there before? Tell me it's not just me?

I've noticed this happening more and more. So...I decided to make a little screen saver for my phone that says "be present"...That way, when I'm on the ground playing with El and get the urge to check my phone, my phrase for the year will be right there in my face and hopefully I'll decide to be more present in what I'm doing, instead of checking my phone.

And, I also decided to put it on this here blog so that you can use it, if you'd like.

And, here's just the plain chevron, if you don't like the whole phrase thang.

Don't know how to use a wallpaper on your phone? Easy! Just double click the picture you want to use and then choose "save image"

After that, go to your pictures on your phone and the image you chose should be in there. Just click on the picture to view it.

Theeen click the little icon that has the arrow coming out of a box.

And click on "use as wallpaper"

After that, you'll just want to scale the image to fit your screen and click "set".

Then, it'll pull up a menu like this where you can choose where to put the image.

I decided to put the one with words as my lock screen and the plain chevron as my home screen, but I mean...You can use them however you want. It's your phone, after all.

Taadaaa.

jumpin' on the bandwagon

2012-01-02T15:45:00.000-07:00

I decided that since we've gained a few new readers recently, I should probably jump on the whole "year in review" post trend. Yeah?

I'll try to keep it short and sweet.

In January...
-I showed you some pregnancy stuff I really wanted (like a pillow for my boobs!)
-We had our 20 week ultrasound, where we found out we were for sure having a girl (phew!)
-And! We took our yearly California trip.

In February...
-I wrote the longest pregnancy post, where I shared Baby E's name. Tyler also compared me to a basketball. Uhhh.
-I actually sewed something! A crib skirt.
-I shared my favorite quote...You know, the one that helped me move forward after each miscarriage.
-And, we made the longest paper chain ever.

In March...
-We shared the baby mobile that I made for over El's crib.
-...And the great dresser makeover.
-We also got a fence (hooray!) and a huge box on our doorstep.

In April...
-Tilly ate ALL my Cadburry Mini Eggs.
-I realized that pregnant people didn't lie about things like morning sickness and pregnancy brain.
-I had my baby shower and it was absolutely perfect.
-I also shared some of my biggest pregnancy fears, and Tyler bought me my dream diaper bag.
-And Tyler graduated.

In May...
-We did the big nursery reveal!
-Our paper chain got a little shorter.
-I shared some random thoughts. And Dr. J told me my baby was going to be late... Like..Mid Jude kind of late.
-WE HAD A BABY! (caps are necessary)

In June...
-I shared my version of the birth story...And Tyler shared his.
-El had her first bath.
-I admitted to turning into a mommy blogger.
-We shared the birth story in pictures.

In July...
-El had her baby blessing.
-We just loved our girl (we still do!)
-We showed you El's hair progression (from wet and combed down, to straight up and dry)

I'm bored of this...Are you? Just a few more months do go...Keep truckin'...

In August...
-We took El to her first baseball game.
-Apparently I didn't blog much this month. But, El Turned 3 months old.

In September...
-I shared my love for September 13th.
-and El started to laugh.

In October...
-We went to California again and El loved the beach.
-I posted about things maybe you were wondering (but probably not)...A post about nothing.
-We had our first Halloween with El.

In November...
-El tried her first solid food.
-I realized life can't get much better than this.
-We organized the kitchen.
-And celebrated our first Thanksgiving with El.

In December...
-We visited Santa.
-I posted too many pictures.
-El loved her first time at the park.
-I made something (sewn) that didn't break yet!
-And we had the best Christmas yet (except I forgot to take pictures).

Pheeeew. Remind me not to do this next year!

Phone Photo Dump

2011-12-31T22:14:00.000-07:00

Whoa. Blogger has an app now? This is the greatest news. Now I can post all my instagram pictures without emailing them to myself now! Perfect!

Here are my most recent instagram pictures. Oh! And you can follow me on there if you want. My username is teandbaby ... Tyler's is tsenn23!

Phew! Oh yeah, and, happy (almost) new year!

I need your help!

2011-12-30T15:17:00.001-07:00

For Christmas we started a "printable wall" by our table. Basically, I just downloaded (and made some of my own) a few printables, popped them in frames, and called it good.

But now Christmas is over (if you didn't know) and we un-decked our halls.

So...Unfortunately...We're left with this.

Yeah. A cluster of crooked and empty frames.
Ahhh.

So, here's where I need your help!
I need some new printables to put in them. Only, I don't want to do Valentine's ones just yet. I'm not ready to make that plunge when it's still technically December.

Sooo...Want to link me to your favorites you've seen online? Or, better (more fun for me!), share your favorite quote so I can make my own? Any ideas? I'm feeling very uncreative here!

fill in the blank Friday- New Years

2011-12-30T00:06:00.001-07:00

I love a good blog link up! Seriously...It's so fun to click and click (and click!) around reading other blogs and learning a bit about the blogger writing. So...You may just see me participating in more blog hops in the new (I just tried to spell that "noo"...uhh) year!

Anyway, today I'm linking up to the little things we do for fill in the blank Friday.

1. New Years is a great excuse to make lots of goals I'll probably never really accomplish .

2. One of my New Year's resolutions will be to learn how to use my camera better. Also to remember to take my camera with me places .

3. A New Year's resolution I've made in the past was to learn to sew. It didn't happen. This next year, though! I'm tellin' ya!

4. The most time consuming resolution I ever made was It wasn't a new years resolution...Just a plain ol' goal to keep my house clean. Every night Tyler and I go around and clean up our house. I hate it, but it's nice to not have to have huge cleaning days .

5. This year I will be spending New Year's Eve I don't even know yet. Probably just at hom with Tyler, the pugs, and (sleeping) baby E .

6. If I could wish one thing for my new year it would be I can't say. But, I reeeally hope it happens .

7. 2012 is going to be so great. I feel it!

.com woo woo

2011-12-29T14:14:00.000-07:00

Guess what! We took the plunge and bought a domain! So now http://www.te-senneff.blogspot.com = http://www.teandbaby.com . How's that for official? The ol' blogspot address should hopefully still be pulling our posts up into your reader, but just in case, you may want to add www.teandbaby.com there too.

Anyyyway.

Yesterday I scrubbed my bathroom. It was great. I mean, usually I clean it (don't worry!) but it had been a while since I actually got on my hands and knees and scrubbed. It looks all shiny and new. Just how I like it!

While I was scrubbing, El was sitting outside the bathroom playing with her new toys. That girl got a haul for Christmas, seriously!... Anyway...As she was playing, Tilly came walking up and decided to chew her bone by baby E (they're in love, remember?)...They were having so much fun "playing" together. I was a proud mama.

...Until I looked over again and realized that Tilly had decided to share her dog bone with El. They were chewing on oposite ends.

So gross!

That's when I decided to never clean again. I mean, obviously bad things happen when I clean.

glimpses

2011-12-28T17:14:00.001-07:00

Sometimes, I get little tiny glimpses of grown up (like, age 3, maybs) El, and it really freaks me out.

I can just see her talking to everyone around her, and being the life of the party (as she already is).

I can see her hiding in silly places, heart racing, just waiting for us to come and find her.

I can see her playing house with her dolls and chatting with grandma and grandpa on her 'cellphone'.

But, most of all...I can see her tender little heart, and that innocence that I hope never fades.

(she is totally obsessed with that blanket that aunt Melissa made her. She is also suddenly obsessed with her binky (her bizonk (or bizonkadonk), as we call it). She used to hate binkys, but now she can't go a second without it.)

__________

p.s.! I'm guest posting over at Letters to Mo today. You should go check it out. Scratch that, you should go check out her entire blog. I absolutely love Annie. We met when I was doing her blog design, and it was blog love at first sight with us (for me, anyway). She is just the type of girl I'd want to be friends with in real life! Plus, Mo (really named Cash) is so adorable that it makes me want to go and have 3000 more babies. I mean, assuming getting pregnant was easy for T and me.

Ahh.

2011-12-26T23:30:00.000-07:00

I feel like the worst mom in the world! I totally didn't document El's first Christmas very well. Like, these are the only three pictures I have from the weekend (two on Christmas eve with her new pajamas, and one on Christmas morning)

(isn't it so weird to see her hair lay flat? We used different shampoo that night)
I guess I was just way too excited watching her "open" presents, that I just didn't think about much else. But, seriously...I feel awful. How did we not even take a family picture in our pjs? Or, a picture of her opening her first present?

Poor me, right?

Just gonna leave this here!

2011-12-24T09:39:00.000-07:00

Have a great Christmas!

2011-12-23T11:54:00.000-07:00

We were too lazy to send this out. Oops! But, you know if we weren't, you totally would have gotten this in the mail. Right?

We hope you guys have the greatest Christmas ever! Thank you so much for reading out blog, and helping us to make this year even more magical!

We love you!

Baby Leg Knock-offs

2011-12-19T15:09:00.000-07:00

We went to Target the other day to grab some quick stocking stuffers. It was a huge mistake going shopping on the Saturday before Christmas Eve. Never again!

The good news is, I picked up two pairs of cute patterned tube socks. I have been wanting to sew her some knock off Baby Legs for a while now (since the $12 a pop for real ones just seems cray cray to me).

I know there's a million tutorials around for these online...But, I thought I'd share mine, just because I'm still kind of amazed that I knew how to even thread my sewing machine!

So basically, it went like this.

1. Gather socks. Preferably cute ones.
2. Measure your baby's legs and cut your sock at that length (leaving the top part in tact)
3. So, basically you have a pair of crew cut socks, and then the long tops separate.
4. Cut about two more inches off of the top of the "crew cut" socks.
5. Take that two inch piece, and fold it in half (with right sides facing out)
6. Slip the two inch piece over the long piece from step 2 (make sure all raw edges line up. You can pin if you need to!)
7. Sew them together at the raw edge and flip them open to see your brand new (knock-off) Baby Legs.

After all of that, you should probably find a cute baby (easiest step for me!) and have them model their brand new legs.

Be sure to stop and admire the chub.

She is loving them so far. I even got a smile. See?

I love them, too! They have made diaper changes a breeze so far!

So...What about you? Have you made anything cute lately? I want to see!

2011-12-18T20:23:00.000-07:00

If you don't know Tyler...There's one thing you should know. He is so funny. Like, the funniest person I've ever met. He makes me laugh on a daily basis. But, yesterday for some reason, really was a winner.

Here are a few gems for the day.

(when talking about baby #2 who isn't conceived yet)

Me: Do you ever worry about what baby #2 will look like? I know that's shallow...But, what if he has no hair? I've never had a bald baby before.
Him: I'm really worried. I feel like we're under a microscope and everyone will be watching to see if ALL our babies are as cute as El.

*Silence for a second*

Him: I mean, what if we're one hit wonders?
Me: "...."
Him: They'll call El beauty and baby#2 beast...I don't want that to happen.

Uhh.

Then, later...Out of the blue he told me this totally random story:

Him: Once I built a ramp for my bike when I was a little kid.
Me: (pretending to care) WOW!
Him: Yeah. It was a really nice ramp. Then, I tried to go off of it but it broke.
Me: Did you get hurt?
Him: Just my heart.

Where does he even come up with this stuff?

In other news...We had my sister take some family pictures yesterday. It was fun, but I look way too formal. What the heck?

(That's a bike in his hand...Not some weird sword!)

ten things

2011-12-16T23:55:00.000-07:00

It's one of those nights again. You know, where I can't turn my brain off? Oh my goodness, it's bad. So...Here I am. Blogging. Here are the top ten things on my mind.

1. Christmas is so soon. I know, stating the obvious here. Right? But really. It is! I can hardly believe it.
I waited until the last second (today!) to order Tyler's Christmas present so I wouldn't be tempted to give it to him early (we already opened our first round...So seriously, this has GOT to wait 'til the real day)...He is going to love it and has no idea its coming. The only problem is (and this normally wouldn't be a problem) it's going to be here on Tuesday...So, I'll have to wait 5 days to give it to him! Talk about torture.

Did that paragraph even make any sense? I am just reeeally excited.

2. Speaking of Christmas...We went to Tyler's work Christmas party on Wednesday and it was the greatest time. Catered Cafe Rio? Yes! And, a gift exchange even! Only...We're all poor so the limit for presents was $1. We bought a cool wand glow stick for one gift...And for my gift we went all crazy and bought a Happy Birthday balloon...But, it wasn't Christmasy enough...So, we were sure to write Jesus on it (so it said "happy birthday Jesus")...Uh. I don't even know. But, it was a hit. So there.

3. Last Christmas thought, I swear... You should totally listen to the She & Him (Holiday) Pandora station. Your ears will thank you so much. So many great renditions of the usual Christmas songs. Plus, I have a big fat girl crush on Sara Bareillis. And maybe Ingrid Michaelson, too. Oh, and Zooey Deschanel...I'll stop there.

4. I've kind of been feeling inadequate lately. It's bothering me a lot. I hate comparing myself to other people. And, I think a big big (huge!) part of this is from reading craft blogs. Am I pathetic, or what? So...I'm about to delete all of them off of my Google Reader. I think it'll feel so great to just be...well...me! And, not the "whoa...look at her house and her newest project and and and..." me.

5. Speaking of crafts (look at all these things connecting!), I'm quitting my craft blog. At first, I was sad when I came up with the idea. But, now I feel a huge weight lifted off of my shoulders. Because, crafting should be fun and not something I feel like I have to do just for a post. I think it'll make me a better person overall to not have that stress weighing on me all the time. Plus, then I can post my crafts (that I actually want to do!) on here...And that, my friends, is the greatest news ever.

6. I think I've said this before? But, I wish I had friends who liked to have parties and little get togethers. Is that weird? I don't know. But, I saw on Pinterest this party where friends got together and wrapped presents. FUN! But, I'm awkward and don't know how to make friends soooo...(if you're my friend and you don't like wrapping parties, I still like you, you know. So don't take offense to this number 6, okay?)

7. I found a gray hair the other day. Like, totally gray. Not just half of it. The whole entire thing was gray. It was awful...So, I decided I need to start dying my hair. But, my skin color looks bad with other colors...Or, I think it does? I dont know. Plus, it takes a lot of maintenance and I don't know if I can keep up!

8. My goal this week was to get dressed everyday. I think I got dressed on Wednesday so far, and that's it. Major major fail. But, I DID wear two different outfits that day...So, it counts for something. Maybe? Right?

9. I have been reading like a crazy woman. I forgot how much I love getting lost in a good book...And, it is totally helping cure my mushy brain and need for adult interaction. You know what's even better than just reading? Reading in a bubble bath. So great!

Speaking of reading and bubble baths...I read in a magazine that bubble baths are the best thing if you are feeling sad or overwhelmed or whatever negative feeling because the warmth from the bath is all over your body like a womb. Hah! Fun fact.

10. The "R" word. Can we touch on the subject for one little second? Watch this video. Then, think about it. Okay?

Linking up to

Cookie Swap

2011-12-16T20:40:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday I went to a cookie swap at Jen's (from Tatertots and Jello) house. It was fun to meet other craft bloggers and oooh and ah at her house.

It was totally totally totally out of my comfort zone, though. Like, picture me awkward over there in the corner. That's how it was. Luckily, I met some other shy bloggers like myself and we were able to come out of our shells--at least a little bit.

Anyway, here are a few pictures from the day.

And, a picture of El on TT&Js famous couch.

Have you been to any cookie exchanges this season yet?

Swings!

2011-12-12T16:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday we took El to the park for the first time. It was so much fun seeing her in the swing for the first time.

She loved every second of it. But, of course, she never lets the camera see that she's enjoying herself.

Ahh. I die when I look at her.

Also, you should watch this little video from T Mobile.

I so wish I could get surprised like that at the mall. Especially this time of year when it's way way way too packed and people are grumpy!

This post is sponsored by T-Mobile.

goal for the week...and an argument

2011-12-11T21:02:00.000-07:00

Can you believe the weekend is already over? Ahh. I can't handle it! Hopefully this week goes by quickly though. Because, if so...Baby E and I may just find ourselves with a cute little cousin (well, 3!) in Colorado. Crossing our fingers here!

Anyway...My goal for this week is to get dressed and ready everyday. Whoa.
This is a crazy goal for me, because I am definitely known to be one of those moms who just wears a pony tail and sweats all day long. So...Let's see if I can do this!
Maybe I'll post pictures at the end of the week as proof (and incentive for me to actually do it)...We'll see!

What's your goal for the week?

OH! And...Would you mind helping Tyler and me settle this debate? It's about a quote in Home Alone 2, and we just can't agree!

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Have a great week! Thanks for reading.

Introduce yourself?

2011-12-09T22:11:00.000-07:00

Every once in a while, I love to make a post and try to lure people out of hiding. I like getting to know the people reading our blog, and I love finding new blogs to read. So, it's kind of a win win for everyone. The way I see it, anyway!

I thought now would be a great time to have a little "getting to know you" post in light of my new blog "followers".

So, here's a little blurb about us.

Tyler is really funny and friendly. I don't think there is any one who has ever met Tyler who doesn't like him. He knows exactly how to make everyone he comes in contact with each day feel like a million dollars. Speaking of dollars, he works at a bank about four minutes from out house. Which, is the best because then he gets to come home and spend lunch with us!
When I asked Tyler what he likes to do, he said "I like to hang out with my wife and baby. I also like to sleep in and play video games...And cook... And I like to pretend I'm good at golf. Oh, and I like to spend time with my dogs. And laugh at my wife."
So, there you have it! Tyler in a nutshell.

-And, I'm Erika. I'm the one who usually writes on this blog. I'm a stay at home mom, and I am pretty much obsessed with our baby (if you couldn't tell by all the pictures).
I love to blog, and I'm kind of a serial blogger with this blog, my craft blog, and giveaway blog.

-Baby E is the cutest baby in the world. She is really funny and likes to chat a lot. Her other hobbies include: playing with her dogs, sucking on her toes, and spitting solids in my face every time I try to feed her.

-Oscar is out oldest "child"...We got him back in 2009, right after I had my first miscarriage. He is the greatest (fawn) dog in the Universe. He has a way of making every one who meets him happy.

-Tilly is the crazy dog. Really. She is nuts when she meets new people, and I'm pretty sure everyone judges us when they meet her. But, she is also the nicest dog ever. She is also a really great cuddler.

So! That about sums us up. What about you guys? Come on all your lurkers...Come out of hiding just this once? Please? I would love to get to know you!

Be sure to leave a link to your blog, if you have one!

Random Thoughts

2011-12-08T22:34:00.002-07:00

I have a few things I've been meaning to talk to you guys about. And, well...Tyler is playing Madden (zzz) so, I guess it's the perfect time to blog my heart out. Right? Right!

-First? Thanks for reading my blog. It makes me feel all warm and fuzzy (I don't like that saying...But, let's roll with it for now) inside that I can just blog and connect with so many amazing people!

-Speaking of amazing people...You guys! Together we have raised almost $400 for Henry (read about him here). Every time I look at my sidebar and see that amount growing, I seriously want to cry. You are helping this precious boy more than you will ever know. I really can't even find the words to explain how proud I am to be a part of something so great. And, all because of you generous people. I know money is tight this time of year, but really. W O W.

-I also wanted to take the time to thank my friends for being so wonderful. Sometimes, I feel like every day is the same these days. And, right when I'm about ready to die of boredom, you guys step in and remind me how wonderful life is! I'm especially grateful for someone, in particular, for stopping in today at the perfect time! It made me feel like a normal human.

-And my Internet friends! I talk about you guys all the time, I know it. But...Really. You guys get me. I love that I can Facebook message you things that (to anyone else) would sound like the most selfish thing in the world. But, to you? You understand. And make sure that I know it's normal. Or, at least that you feel the same way. And thank goodness for that. Because sometimes a girl's gotta vent, ya know?

-Aaand last? I am so so so blessed with my wonderful family! My "little family" (Tyler, El, and the dogs) are so great, and make every day so perfect. And my big family (everyone else!)? They are so perfect as well. Man, I am one lucky lucky girl.

Phew! Felt good to get that all off my chest. You know when you feel like you might explode with gratitude? I was feeling like that.

Anyway! To end this super long post...I decided to fill out this little "fill in the blank Friday" questionnaire and link up to the little things we do.

1. Love is so great. Sure, it's hard work...But, really. It's so so so great. Nothing is better. .

2. Being in love feels like my heart is going to beat out my chest whenever I look at them .

3. My favorite quote about love is When you have seen as much of life as I have, you will not underestimate the power of obsessive love. JK Rowlings Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince .

4. The most important thing in a relationship is honesty and selflessness .

5. A "deal breaker" for me in a relationship is someone unwilling to put in effort (I agree!) .

6. The way I show love in my relationships is by spending quality time together. And presents.

7. I love my tiny family .

Also linking to The Wiegands.

PS! I really want to review these cloth diapers! Seriously.

2011-12-07T20:49:00.002-07:00

I'm that annoying mom who posts a million pictures of their child a day. Oops!

Hopefully at least her grandparents and aunts and uncles enjoy this post. Hey?

This is basically the only picture I have ever taken that shows her blue eyes.

woo!

2011-12-07T13:50:00.002-07:00

Last week, I decided to treat my camera (and myself!) to a new lens in honor of getting more orders over at The Fairy Blogmother. It came in the mail today and I am basically in love with it.

I know I'm no professional photog or anything, but taking pictures of my baby is my #1 hobby, I think. I mean, how could I not be obsessed with taking her picture?

Unfortunately (or, fortunately, considering last night's post) El was napping when it came in the mail...So, I decided to test it out of Oscar and Tilly.

love. at. first. click.

I loved it so much I took this picture of myself.

And, I'm posting it because the lens almost makes my messy haired no makeuped self look pretty awesome. I mean, if you focus on the background and not my skin and nose hairs.

Trying to sleep

2011-12-07T01:22:00.003-07:00

I went to bed early tonight (at 11, which is unheard of for me!) in hopes that I'd wake up tomorrow rested for El's favorite wake up time. 6 am.
This is an especially rough time for me because one, I'm used to her sleeping til 10. And two? The girl won't nap. So really. Whiney days all around so far this week. For her and me.

But that's beside the point. So I came up to bed so tired and ready to sleep. I laid down and... Boom. Wide awake.

Now it's 1:19 (precisely) and I just can't turn my brain off. I tried counting sheep. I tried naming movies from a-z until I realized I don't like movies that much. So then, I thought of how movies are dumb these days. And they're all just books. Only not as good.

See? I don't even know what I'm talking about right now.
Now I just want sleep, but the cycle continues.

I know the second I fall asleep, time will fast forward and it'll be 6.

Heeellllp.

2011-12-05T20:53:00.000-07:00

Lately, I've been totally into photoshop tutorials. Like, if El is asleep and it's two in the morning, you'll most likely find me perusing Pinterest and trying out tutorials.

I know I'm not the greatest photographer and photoshopper...But, it's still a fun way to de stress.

Here are a few pictures I played around with today.

Have you seen any great photoshop tutorials around for me to try out? Leave me a link!

Santa

2011-12-03T23:43:00.000-07:00

Have you guys entered the Kindle Fire giveaway yet? No!? You should, because one of my readers is going to win. I just feel it!

Anyway...Tyler had the day off on Friday. It was fun spending the day with him. It was especially fun going to visit Santa with E girl.

We got her all dressed up in her froufy Christmas dress and headed to a mall 40 minutes away. I'm serious. We drove 40 minutes for Santa. All because Tyler was convinced last year that this guy was the real deal.

And, you know what? He was. It was crazy. He had an accent and everything. I totally know the real Santa has an accent. Because...Why wouldn't he?

So anyway...We were the only ones there visiting him, so El kind of got the special treatment. All the photographers couldn't get over how cute she was in her dress, so they took tons of pictures. (we only bought three though, because...Come on. $30? For three?)

Seriously, is she not adorable?

As Tyler and I were looking at the pictures they took on their camera, we glanced back over to Santa and baby E. They were chatting up a storm. Santa told her she looked pretty, and she made farting noises at him. If you get fart noises, you know you are in. At least, that's how things work in our family, I'm not sure about yours.

Kindle Fire and $50 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway!

2011-12-03T22:01:00.015-07:00

Oooh my gosh, you guys. I am so so so excited for this post.

See, a few weeks ago, I got together with 25 other bloggers to bring you an awesome giveaway! Each of us put in $10 so that we could buy the lucky winner of this giveaway a Kindle Fire AND a $50 giftcard to Amazon along with it. That's a $250 dollar value. Holy cow, right?

Is that great or what!?

Of course, I want one of you lovelies to win this. Because, come on...Wouldn't that be perfect to win right before Christmas? So, be sure to enter as many times as you can below!

And, be sure to go share some love with the other bloggers. Because, I mean...This wouldn't be possible without them, right?!

Good luck!

Here's the generic post we all have on our blogs.
_______________

25 bloggers have teamed up to bring you all a huge giveaway! Here is your chance to win a Kindle Fire and a $50 Amazon Gift Card to buy Kindle books!

The Kindle Fire is the newest design in Kindles and features:

WiFi
7" touchscreen
8GB internal (approximately 6GB available for user content). That's enough for 80 apps, plus 10 movies or 800 songs or 6,000 books.
Amazon Cloud storage
8 hours continuous reading or 7.5 hours video playback
3.5 mm stereo audio jack, top-mounted stereo speakers
Fully charges in approximately 4 hours via included U.S. power adapter. Also supports charging from your computer via USB.

You can read books, watch movies, play music, download apps, and browse the internet on the Kindle Fire. Plus if you have Amazon Prime, Amazon has started their new Kindle Lending Library where you can borrow books for free!

You can enter to win here or on any of these blogs:

a few exciting things!

2011-12-01T12:29:00.002-07:00

First? I started another blog. Oops!

But this time, it's a blog to help promote small businesses through reviews and giveaways. I AM SO EXCITED THAT'S WHY I'M TYPING THIS SENTENCE IN CAPS!

It's called shmop. I know, I know. Stupid name, right? But, seriously...I racked my brain for basically days trying to come up with a good name for it. And...Well...If you put the word "small" and "shop" into a blender (like the baby bullet, probably) then you'd most likely come up with the word "shmop"...At least...I think?

So. Run over there and enter the first giveaway okay? The more readers this blog gains, the more small shops we can help expose. And, that's pretty great. Right!?

And second...While we're on the subject of giveaways...You may just want to come back to my blog tonight at 10:01 MST...It might have to do with a Kindle Fire. And a $50 Amazon gift card. And YOU winning it (courtesy of 25 other bloggers and myself)...Really! Don't forget! Because One of you HAS to win it.

WAIT! I got confused. It's on December 4th, okay?...Well...Technically December 3rd my time (MST)...Okay, sorry!

Third...Did you know I won my first ever giveaway yesterday? Sure, it may be the most random thing to win in the entire world... BUT I WON IT (again with the excitement caps).

Okay! Bye!

6 months old

2011-11-30T11:10:00.000-07:00

Whoa.

See her two bottom teeth?

I get it

2011-11-29T16:12:00.000-07:00

Before I had a baby, there were things I just didn't understand.

Like, why people would ever post a picture of their baby in the bathtub. Or, of their baby with baby food all over their faces. Or worse! Poo all over them.

Honestly, it grossed me out and I admit it, I totally judged who ever did that.

But now...Now! I totally get it.
And, I've posted a picture of every single one of those things. And (again) they are the cutest things I've ever seen in my life.

A baby covered in food? Sooo cute to me. A baby in the bathtub with their hair all soapy? You might as well kill me now, because I will most likely die of cuteness anyway. OH! And a baby covered in poo? Well... I'm still getting used to that. But...You better believe that my daughter is the cutest poop covered baby on the Internet.

Weird how things change, right?

(El on Thanksgiving with the little table setting and feast (avocado, sweet potatoes, and butternut squash) that my mom made her)

Goal for the Week (week two)

2011-11-27T00:51:00.001-07:00

My goal for the week is to exercise at least four times!

I usually get to like three days in a row and feel so awesome that I quit. I know, it makes no sense. But, I just go with it anyway.

So! Here's to four days. Hip hip hooray.

What's your goal for the week?

Also, apparently there's a new hang out at my house.

At one point, Tilly, Oscar, AND baby E were all under there. Crazy kids.

Christmas Printable Wall

2011-11-26T19:37:00.001-07:00

So, remember in my last post where I showed you guys my wall o' printables? Ya know, the one that I plan to switch out with every season?

Wellll...I decided to share where I got the goods from...Because, who couldn't use a good printable in their lives?

My favorite one comes from the blog Less Cake More Frosting.

I love this quote from Elf! Download this printable here.

And, here is a fun Christmas subway art from the girls at eighteen25.

Download it here.

Then, the last three on my wall were just things I whipped up real fast today.

Download here.

(this one you can frame and write on with a dry erase marker to countdown to Christmas)
Download here.

Download here.

deckin' my halls

2011-11-26T18:10:00.001-07:00

I have a problem.

I can't stop decorating for Christmas. Like...I just can't. No matter how hard I try! It doesn't even look that great, either. It just makes me really happy doing it. So, whatever.

We even wrapped our big painting and hung it back up. My bow looks stupid, though. No matter how many videos I watched, I just couldn't make a good bow!

My favorite, though, is my new wall of frames! I printed off some free Holiday printables and also made a few of my own.

Then, just popped them into frames. I'm seriously so excited about this, because now I can just switch out the pictures with the season and it'll look like I decorated.

I also hung up a paint chip tree advent calendar I made (I'll post about that more on my craft blog this Wednesday)

love love love.

Have you started decorating for Christmas yet? I have wanted to for so long, but I made myself wait until after Thanksgiving!

Just gonna leave these here.

2011-11-24T16:35:00.001-07:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

We love you!
And, we're thankful you read our blog. yadda yadda.

Ps. I died when Facebook did this.

organizing

2011-11-23T08:48:00.001-07:00

I accomplished my goal for the week! Well, half of it, at least. I haven't gotten to the hall closet yet...But, I'll get there after I go buy more containers. Hopefully!

Anyway, here are a few before and after pictures. Because, who isn't a sucker for before and after pictures?
Some of them aren't that impressive, and I totally forgot to take pictures of the drawers...Which are the best part. Of course, right?

I'm tellin' ya. Bins from the dollar store make every thing better!... And, how gross was above my refrigerator? So gross, is the answer!

P.S. I reeeally want to paint my cabinets.

I probably shouldn't post these...

2011-11-22T19:13:00.000-07:00

But, I can't help myself.

Poo. All over herself, me, and her highchair.
It was the first real poo since she started solids. So, in other words...It was disgusting.

I know, you care about her bowel movements, right. RIGHT?...Oh.
(sorry)

She'll probably love me for this post in sixteen years.
[Love you too, boomus *picture me blowing a kiss at you*]

And, what blowout would be complete without a bow?

On another (less smelly) note, Heidi H? Your giftcard is in the mail! I didn't forget, I promise!

sign shakers

2011-11-22T06:23:00.000-07:00

I had the best idea yesterday. Like, on a scale from 1-10, this was probably a solid 9. At LEAST! The only thing is, Tyler didn't think it was as brilliant of an idea as I did. So, sadly, it'll never come to life. Dang.

Okay, you know those people who shake signs on the side of the road? Like, the Little Caesar people? Well, I have seen some AMAZING sign shakers in my day. Like, the girl who shakes signs in Provo by Sonic? Have you seen her people who live in my hood?

Anyway, I have always thought she was the best sign shaker in the Universe. Like, I have never even seen anyone close to as good as her. Until the other day when I saw this new guy. He was amazing! He was twirling his sign like no body's business.

That's when it came to me. This great idea.

There needs to be a sign shaker dance off. I'm serious. Where the best of the best shake off and we can see-- once and for all-- Who is the best shaker.

Personally, I think it would be hilarious.
Tyler thinks it would be dumb. But whatever.

it can't get better than this

2011-11-21T16:05:00.000-07:00

Photo by Mandi

When El was just born, I remember rocking her in our chair and trying to choke back tears. Tears of gratitude because she was finally here... And because she was better than any baby I could have possibly dreamt up for myself.

I remember rocking her and thinking "it can't get better than this."

But, I was wrong.
Because it did.

I still can't believe she's mine. And, I still can't believe how great she is.

I hope I never forget how I feel when she plays with my lips with her tiny hands as she eats. Or, the way she tucks her whole body close into mine when a stranger says hi to her.

I hope I never forget the way she stares at me and smiles when ever I say "thanks for being my baby"...Kind of like she wants to say "No, thanks for being my mama" (or, at least, that's what I pretend she is thinking). Or the way she giggles whenever I come back into a room.

She has brought us so much happiness these past 5 1/2 months.

It can't get better than this.

Goal for the Week

2011-11-20T18:56:00.000-07:00

This week I've decided to buckle down and get my kitchen organized. The drawers and cupboards have so many weird things in them that I should probably get rid of.

Like, on the surface, my house looks awesome (Tyler and I made a goal a while back to clean it every night before bed...We're going on 6 weeks clean! Hah), but once you open a cupboard? Wow! Totally not even close to clean.

So! It's official. My goal for the week is to organize the kitchen. Let's throw in the hall closet, too. Alright?

I can do this.
I think.

What is your goal for the week?

tydean...

2011-11-18T17:26:00.001-07:00

You, me, redbox, hot chocolate,blanket bed on the ground...tonight?

Check yes or no.
(leave a comment to answer)

Xoxo
~~Gossip girl~~ eno

fill in the blank Friday (and a winner!)

2011-11-17T22:11:00.000-07:00

Well guys! We have a winner for the $25 Visa Giftcard. A huge thank you to every one who entered. Your comments and input really meant a lot to us!

Anyway!
The winner is....

Yayay! I'll email you, H.

Now, it's time for fill in the blank Friday at the little things we do! I haven't read the questions yet, so I'm just going to type the first thing that comes to mind for each question.

1. A nervous habit I have is I bite the inside of my lip a lot...Like, to the point of making my lip bleed. It's awful and I don't even notice I'm doing it!

2. Something that makes me sad is Infertility. I know way too many couples struggling to have a baby, and it just breaks my heart. Each and every one of them would make amazing parents.

3. Today I am thankful for My computer. It helps me stay connected with people and also helps me make some extra moola here and there.

4. My favorite room in my house is my living room. Probably because we spend so much time in there and there are so many great memories associated with it.

5. I can't stand Whistling. Wow. It honestly drives me crazy when I hear people whistle.

6. If I had an extra $100 to spend on whatever I wanted today I would buy an ottoman I found on craigslist. It's perfect for our living room. But uhh. I'm poor.

7. The last person I hung out with was Tyler and El. We went to the mall to look at cutlery. We're really fun.

2011-11-16T21:55:00.000-07:00

Today El and I went shopping with my mom. It was lots of fun, especially because we got to see the baby bullet. And...Well...We all kind of fell in love with the thing. I'm tellin' ya! As seen on T.V. stuff rocks.

But anyway, turns out my mom was feeling very generous because she bought it for us! So, naturally, we had to try it out tonight.

The first meal?
Sweet Potatoes.
(steamed (we didn't have time to bake) sweet potatoes pureed with breastmilk)

Man, that baby bullet (affectionately named Renée...I don't even know) is the greatest.

She whipped up them steamed sweet pataytas like no body's bidnass. I don't know why that accent just came over me. Sorry about that.

But really, it was super easy to use and El thought it was pretty funny the noise it made.

Annnyway. I don't think baby E was much of a fan of the finished product, though. She pretty much liked her high chair way way more.

The sweet potatoes? Not amused. Like, at all.

Look at her looking at the camera like "please save me"...I think I make that face when I eat sweet potatoes, too.

Ohhh well. We'll try again tomorrow.

Oh! And, here's a little bonus video for you. Try to ignore Tyler and me. We're a little annoying in this!

**Sorry for the awful lighting in the pictures and video.

dreamin'

2011-11-15T20:39:00.001-07:00

The other day I told Tyler to make a Christmas list so I could blog about it. I was going to make us little idea boards with links and everything to try and keep every thing organized...But when I got his email with all the things he wants, that plan kind of went out the window.

Basically, his Christmas list included video games and things that can't be mentioned. I mean, how does he think Santa would bring him that anyway? Gross.

So, whatever.

Here's what I want. I wracked my brain for forever. It's weird how increasingly hard it is to think of things I want these days. So weird.

1. Purse/secret camera bag. I've been trying to find a way to bring my camera everywhere so I won't have to use my cellphone camera for everything. This seems like the solution, eh?

2. A Home Depot gift card! I want to paint so many things but I'm poor.

3. A Seven Peaks Pass...More specifically, a Pass of all Passes. That way, El and I can have so much fun at the pool next summer.

4. Lipstick (Remember, I'm obsessed?)...M.A.C. Ladybug, in particular.

5. A Nordstrom Giftcard so I can buy some new shoes.

6. A 50 mm f/1.8 lens.... I don't, by any means, consider myself a photographer or something. Far from it, actually (as you can see from my pictures)--But, I thought I'd better get more acquainted with my camera and so I've been researching like cray cray. Basically, everyone says this is the lens to have. So! Onto my list it went.

I totally know I probably won't get any of this. But, that's okay! It was fun browsing and adding things to my "if only..." list!

What's on your list this year (whether it's attainable or not)?

If you are a baby E fan...

2011-11-14T20:02:00.000-07:00

this post is for you. Presenting (hah!) a day in the life of Ellabella.

First, E got dressed and we decided she'd rock some pigtails. She thought they were pretty funny and was pulling this face all day:

Once we were both dressed, we headed for the Library for baby lap time. Before the class, we decided to check out some books (in English AND Spanish, how's that for cultured?...We won't mention the lesbian mom book from last week)

After thoroughly looking through her books, we went into baby lap time. We had fun singing songs and reading lots of books. Do you see what a good student she is?

All the other moms couldn't get over her little pigtails and her cheeks. But, I mean, who can ever get over her cheeks? (braaaggin' (as my sister would say)).

Once we got home, El practiced her sitting skills and played for a little bit.

Then it was naptime, she wasn't having it.

So, we played some more.

And then bundled up and went on a little walk.

She was a little freaked out about being in her new stroller. She kept looking up at me through the clear part in the stroller umbrella.

After our walk, we stopped and got the mail.

After we were home for a while, Daddy (aka Tyler) came home and El's life was complete.

The lucky gal even got to make some dinner with her main man.

Then, it was time to start getting ready for bed. So, out came the pig tails.

And into the bath she went.

Once she was dried off and in her pajamas, it was time for a story.

And off to bed.

Goodnight!

thankfuls :: guilty pleasures

2011-11-14T14:17:00.002-07:00

Since it's Thanksgiving season, it's only natural to write blog posts about what we're thankful for. Right? I'm pretty sure.

Only, I think it's pretty obvious that I'm thankful for my family, my friends, my pets, my house, my (fill in the blank here)...SO! I thought it would be fun to post about what I am thankful for that might get over looked. You know, my guilty pleasures that make life that much more enjoyable?

Gossip girl:

So trashy and so perfect for filling my free time.

Nail polish:

My toenails just don't look right without it.

Lipstick:

I've just recently decided I love lipstick. Wearing it instantly changes my mood.

Boy bands:

Nothing makes cleaning more fun.

Diet Coke:

Does this even need an explanation?

So, what's on your guilty pleasure thankful list?

(linking up here)
OH! And because I just can't help myself. Here's a sneak peak of baby E today. One word: pigtails.

I've been trying to take pictures of her through out the day so that I can post a huge picture dump later tonight. See you then?

Steppin' out Saturday.

2011-11-12T23:21:00.001-07:00

Hi guys!

I'm really really (super de duper, even) excited about how many entries our thank you giveaway has so far. I mean, get real. You're the best.

Haven't entered yet? You should! There's still time.

Anyway, today I thought I'd try a little something different and link up with the Steppin' out party at Harper's Happenings.

I've never done this before, but I'm pretty sure you're supposed to post a picture of what you wore and say where it's from and what you did that day...or something? Really, I don't know. Hah! But, hopefully I'll figure it out once other people link up and be more prepared for next week!

For now, though...Here's El in her Carter's get up. I thought she looked adorable with her new headband (from The Quilted Bear).

As always, I'm sorry for the phone pictures.
I'm also sorry to everyone who follows me or Tyler on Instagram (esenn and tsenn23, if you're interested!), and have already seen these pictures and millions of other. You know we're obsessed with our little lady.

So anyway!
Today was a really laid back day. We didn't do much except for cuddle and make sock monkeys. We also went and visited our friends in the hospital who just had a baby. It made me want another baby, pronto. Maybe it's a good thing we have issues getting pregnant, eh (no!!)? I mean, we'd probably have like three million kids by now or something. Plus, my baby is still a baby, so what am I even thinking? Tell me that.

We're Thankful for You-Giveaway!

2011-11-10T16:47:00.002-07:00

Hi you guys! I hope you're having an amazing Thursday. I know I am. Mostly because Tyler doesn't have work tomorrow, and we're going to head up to Salt Lake for the grand opening of H&M.

I.Can't.Wait!

So yeah, it's basically Friday around these parts!

___

Anyway, T and I have been talking a lot about this blog and how grateful we are to every one who reads it. Nothing makes us feel better than logging on to the ol' interweb and seeing the nice comments and emails you send to us. It is seriously awesome. And inspiring. And and and.

So! We've decided to offer a little giveaway on this blog to show our gratitude to you for reading our tiny spec on the Internet.

We want to offer a $25 Visa giftcard to the winner!

We know it's not much, but we figured that (if you're tight on money like us!) every one could use a little extra moola since it's the Holiday season and all.

So? Do you want to win? Here are the deets:

Mandatory entry:
-Be a public follower of t.e. and baby--Leave a comment saying you are! (1 entry)

Extra entries:
-Leave a comment saying what you like about this blog (1 entry)
-Leave a comment about what you wish we'd change about this blog (1 entry)
-Tell us what you'd do with a $25 Visa gift card (1 entry)
-Vote for us on Top Baby Blogs (banner at the bottom of this post) (1 entry per day! Be sure to comment each day you do this)

Please leave a different comment for each entry!
Giveaway ends on Thursday, November 17 and a winner will be chosen at 11 a.m. MST.

Thanks again for being so wonderful, you guys!

A Girl and Her Dogs (cont'd.)

2011-11-09T22:09:00.001-07:00

Remember how earlier today I told you that El loves her dogs? Well, here's some more proof if you didn't believe me!

top left: just sitting here.
top right: she spots Tilly and starts to giggle.
bottom left: she reached out for Tilly and topples over.
bottom right: falls to the ground, but doesn't mind because Tilly is still there.

A Girl and Her Dogs

2011-11-09T14:17:00.002-07:00

Oscar and Tilly were out first "babies" (along with the cat-who-can't-be-named-or-I'll-cry). They were the "people" who helped us not feel so lonely when we wanted a baby so badly. They are most of the reason why we were able to to pull ourselves out of the sadness that engulfed us after each miscarriage. I know, that sounds crazy to people who aren't pet people, but really--They fille that void for me and I love them so much for it.

When we found out that baby E was really really going to come home with us (we weren't convinced until we had her in our arms), we were immediately worried about how the dogs would handle having a new family member. One who was more important than them and who would get loads more attention.

Apparently we worried for nothing, because from day one, they were smitten.

It's like they knew that she was theirs and that they needed to protect her. Because, any time she would cry, Tilly would be right there by her side with a look like "Come on, mom. Pick up the pace. Can't you see she's crying?"

And, Oscar would just give me the annoyed look that he does so well.

As time has gone on, El has realized that she loves them back.

Tilly loves to just lay by El and let her pet her. Really, she pets her! It's adorable! She also loves to watch El play with her toys. Which, in turn gets El squealing with excitement.

And, of course, she thinks Oscar is just hilarious. I'm not sure why. Maybe because his face is two different colors? I don't know! But, she belly laughs every time she sees him.

I can hardly handle it, it's so cute.

Ps! Our little blog is now listed on top baby blogs. The more votes we get, the higher we'll be on the list. So, if you have a chance, would you mide clicking that little banner right there and voting for us? We love you!

Unfortunate Parents of Sleeping children (aka UPS)

2011-11-08T16:09:00.001-07:00

Baby E hates naps. Like, she basically avoids them like I avoid bacon. Or, like Tyler avoids egg nog. Either or.

But, for some reason (probably my magic motherly touch), she decided to take one. And, I was so happy I could explode. For two hours, I was in mama heaven. I was catching up on blog designs, reading blogs, writing emails--you know, looking like I was being productive, but really just playing around online.

That's when it happened.
I heard the big truck pull up outside.

At that second, my heart went into a panic "..but my baby is sleeping!", I thought to myself.
Apparently UPS men don't know how to read mama minds because at that exact second, he stepped from his truck and headed for my front door.

In a panic, I searched for a shirt (I wasn't wearing one because I had just got done working out...TMI? I don't know. Point is, I wasn't wearing clothes) so I could beat him to the door.

Right as I pulled my shirt over my head, it happened.
The dreaded loudest-knock-in-the-whole-world.
-que dogs starting to bark-
"PHEW!" I thought to myself, "just a knock"

But, I was wrong. It wasn't just a knock. Not even close.
That knock was followed by a big fat
DIIIING. DINGDONGDINGDONGDINGDONG! DING DING DIIIIING. Poundonthefreakingdooragain.
Which, in turn, made the dogs go absolutely crazy barking.

I knew it was over. Right then, my blissful mommy time was over. I stared at the baby monitor and counted in my head "3....2..." and sure enough "WAAAAAAHHHHHHHHHH earpiercingcry AHHHH"

I wanted to cry. Did that really just happen?

At least the package came bearing gifts.

quotes from the bath

2011-11-05T20:02:00.000-06:00

Tyler loves to give El her bath at before bed. I guess it's their bonding time, or something. I don't know!
All I know is that it is absolutely hilarious to listen in on them. Tyler always says the weirdest things to her, and they make her giggle so much.
Really, I melt every single day during bath time.

Anyway, I thought it'd be fun to document a quote from bath time every little bit. Just because I think they are hiii-larious.
One day, maybe I can even sneak a recording without them knowing? We'll see!

Here's my favorite quote from tonight's bath (with the story to preface):

El was super tired and she had just realized it so she was crying pretty hard. Tyler was trying to get her to calm down...So, he started talking to her in this ridiculous radio voice. He was telling her she was super tired and that she'd be in bed in no time...Then came the quote.

"She's more cute, has more hair, and is more tired than the standard baaaby!"

El thought it was hilarious that her daddy was talking in such a funny voice.
So, he kept going. One day I need to tell her to stop encouraging him, because he can get a little crazy.

messy moment

2011-11-04T13:38:00.000-06:00

Okay, let's be real here. I'm trying to win a camera from the SITs girls. I know, I know, I probs won't win. But! It's worth a shot...Right?

Basically, all I have to do is write about my messiest moment and I could (but probably won't) win.
So...Here we go!
______________

My sister and I are 13 months apart. It has been pretty awesome for the most part. I mean, besides when she hit me in the face for not letting her borrow my car. I mean, really. I guess I can't complain, though. Because I think I clawed her back or something? I don't know. Minor details.

So anyway, the point is, we usually got along and it was great having a sister so close in age. We always did a lot together growing up, and I really looked up to her (I still do!)

One day, when I was about 11 and she was 12, we decided it would be a great idea to make some mint chocolate covered pretzels. You know, with those green chocolate chips? It was so much fun. For like five minutes. Then, both of us were just over it. There were sooo many pretzels to dip and we just didn't have the patience.

So, I did what any great sister would do and I told her she should just finish by herself. Because, I mean, it was her idea anyway! Apparently that didn't make her so happy, so she splattered green chocolate all over me. So, of course, I had to do it back to her (only, the joke was on me because she was wearing one of my new shirts.) After a few minutes, the chocolate was all gone and we (along with the kitchen and out dog) were all covered in green mint chocolate! It was awful. But, at least the chocolate fight helped us to forget about our real fight, and start laughing instead.

It was the biggest mess, though. Luckily, our mom helped us clean it up. Because we totally wouldn't have done a very good job.

________
I received information about Clorox’s Bleach It Away campaign and am sharing my messy moment for the chance to win prizes from The SITS Girls. To learn more about the messy moment program, check out www.BleachItAway.com. Sharing your story on the Clorox fan page gets you entered for the chance to win $25,000 and daily prizes, and you can grab a coupon for Clorox® Regular Bleach.

fill in the blank Friday

2011-11-03T22:07:00.000-06:00

I'm so excited to try out this new little blog hop I found. It's called Fill in the Blank Friday over at the little things we do.

It was so much fun answering the questions because it forced me to think of things that may not have been on my mind otherwise!

Aaaanyway, here we go:

1. My favorite thing about this week was/is the fact that Tyler got off early from work every single day this week...And...AND! He gets off work at 3 tomorrow!

2. Colder weather makes me tired. really really tired! .

3. Three things that make me terribly happy as of late are my husband, my gal, and my dogs .

4. If I could only wear one kind of shoe for the rest of my life, I'd choose flats. they're just too comfy to pass up. I would have said boots, but those would look a little weird with a swimming suit, amirite?

5. My personality type is I don't know the letters...I really need to take that personality test!

6. I have a serious problem resisting Icecream. I really don't know when I started liking it so much. It used to make me sick, but now I need at all day every day.

7. My favorite color to wear is grey! I always seem to gravitate toward grey clothing at stores.

burritos gallore

2011-11-03T20:50:00.001-06:00

The other day, I remembered that I signed up to be in a freezer meal group with a few of the ladies from my church. Since I'm the absolute worst, I completely forgot until the day before. Umm...Yikes!

Thankfully, my lovely friend LeDawn is a freezer meal guru, and helped me out by showing me some awesome (read: easy and cheap) recipes.

I decided to go with the "Cafe Rio" pork burritos. Only...I ended up using Diet Dr. Pepper instead of regular Dr. Pepper. Apparently that doesn't work. Oops!

Oh well, though. Because they still ended up pretty darn tasty, if I do say so myself. And, I even (kind of) enjoyed making a million burritos (okay, really just like 80) at once. I was pretending to work at a restaurant and it was awesome.

(they look gross here, sorry! I'm no photographer.)

Tyler helped by making the dressing, and Baby E even helped me flip tortillas.

See? What a gal.

My day of cooking was totally worth it after I saw a bunch of these guys lining my freezer. Plus, they ended up being SO delicious.

Oh, and...One last thing!

Don't judge me...

2011-11-01T14:08:00.001-06:00

But, I'm listening to Justin Bieber's Christmas album. Oops.

Wait, you're confused about which part of that last sentence to judge me for, right? Obviously it's for listening to Christmas music before Thanksgiving.

But, the thing is...Reece's Rainbow Christmas Warriors started today. And, well--I am in love with Henry and really want him to find a home by next Christmas. So, you can see why I'm in the Christmas Spirit. Right?

If you feel like you really need to do something awesome today, you should totally make a donation toward Henry's adoption fees. If you donate $35 or more, you even get a cute little Christmas ornament for your tree. But, even more than that? You'll feel like a million dollars helping out this precious little boy. I promise!

You can read more about why I love Henry so much by reading this post.

And, you can make a donation for precious Henry by going here. I'm also trying to get a button up on my sidebar that'll go straight to his page, but I'm kind of having issues figuring out how. So, keep an eye out!

Costumes.

2011-10-31T14:46:00.000-06:00

I know, I know. Every blog today is about Halloween (weird, right? I mean, since it's Halloween and all)...But, I just couldn't let the day pass without posting some pictures of my girl. She is to die for in her costume that my mama made her.

I never used to understand when people would say "I could just eat her!" about their babies. I mean, it just sounds gross and morbid. But seriously...I could just eat her! Her cheeks are so perfectly plump, and her rolls are just great. Plus! Look at those rosy cheeks. Perfection.

Anyway, for the "big day", she dressed up as Snow White and I was the wicked witch.

You're probably wondering what Tyler was. Maybe like a dwarf or an apple or something? CLOSE!

....He was Uncle Sam. Yeah, I don't even know what to say about that.

Your Thoughts?- Starting Solids

2011-10-25T19:35:00.000-06:00

Okay, fellow moms out there.

I want to hear your thoughts on starting solids. It seems like every one has their own views on when solids should start and when to start weaning, etc. etc.... So, I thought it would be fun to see what you think.

I'm currently at the stage where I'm trying to decide if I want to start solids next month (at 6 months, since BFing for at least 6 months was the original goal), or if I want to BF a bit longer before introducing anything.

What do you think? What are the benefits of doing things "your way"?

This isn't meant to start a debate. I just honestly want to know your thoughts. I feel kind of lost in the sea that is Google, and wanted to hear some "real life" experiences.

Thanks guys, you're the best!
And, stay tuned because I'm working on a schedule for this blog to (hopefully) get me blogging more regularly. I mean, it is my outlet, after all!

Favorite Products--Combatting Colds

2011-10-24T12:42:00.000-06:00

We've been sick around here. Like, coughing and nose blowing galore!
Luckily, though--We've been using the sickest (like, really--the grossest and coolest) products in the whole world to kick these colds to the curb.

First up? NeilMed's Netti Pot.

Basically, you just fill the pot with a salt solution and some water, and then stick it in one of your nostrils. Once it's in there, you tilt your head and watch as the water (and snot!) pours out the other nostril. It's fascinating, really. I always feel so accomplished when I see huge globs come out. Is that TMI? I don't know. But, you should get one of these bad boys if you ever get sick. Because, I mean...It's better than blowing your nose 234356776545 times a day and having a red and raw nose.

Next up? El's personal favorite: Nose Frida's Snot Sucker.

For real, people. This product is the best. Forget the bulb syringe that makes your baby scream (and, frankly, doesn't even work much)...This thing really sucks the snot out and makes for one happy baby!

Basically (k, I realize this sounds disgusting (it is!!) but, don't judge 'til you try it), you just stick one end up to your baby's nostril (not even in it!) and then you suck the other end and watch as all your baby's snot fills up the bulb thing. It's really rewarding, plus, El thinks the sound of snot getting sucked from her nose is hilarious, so she usually ends up laughing.

The thought of sucking her snot from her nose really grossed me out, but I felt better once I learned that there was a filter in in--So, really, there's no way for the snot to even get anywhere near my mouth. Seriously, this thing saved my life and helps my little coldy baby feel more like herself.

You should probably order one right this second before your baby gets a cold this fall/winter. I'll never use a bulb syringe again!
______
What are your favorite tips and tricks to combat a nasty cold? I'm dying over here since I can't take my beloved Dayquil/Nyquil.

If you're wondering...

2011-10-19T23:40:00.001-06:00

If you're wondering if Tyler and I still love each other, the answer is:

Yes! Who else drinks the exact same amount of Diet Coke at the exact same time?

If you're wondering if baby E is still the cutest baby in the entire world, the answer is:

A big fat yes. Look at her in her fall duds. Yellow sweater and jeggings? Ahh. I can't even handle the amount of cuteness there.

If you're wondering if Tilly is still El's biggest fan, the answer is:
If you count having to see E at all times and having to check under El's crib every night for monsters being a big fan. runonsentence.

If you're wondering if I've almost made my biggest craft bloggy goal, the answer is:

Yes! I just need a feeeew more followers. I could die of excitement. I never ever ever evvvver thought that any of my blogs would have readers besides the obvious ones (HI MOM!)

If you're wondering if it's time for me to go to bed, the answer is:
Ummm. Yeah! Goodnight all you lovlies!

New Blog Name...Aaagain.

2011-10-15T22:54:00.001-06:00

My blog name "Wannabe" has been driving me crazy. Ever since I stopped doing the "wannado" link party, it just didn't really make any sense.

So, I brainstormed and came up with this:

I mean, it's fitting, right?

I thought so, too.

Hopefully now that my blog no longer has identity crisis, I'll be able to write more often. I've been having some major writers block lately, and it's horrible. I blame it on the old blog name.

Here's to trying harder!

I am one in four

2011-10-15T02:29:00.002-06:00

I think about the babies I lost a lot still. My heart still feels a little pang every time I see twins or babies around the age that mine would have been. I still have to choke back tears when I allow myself to really think about them.

And yet, no one really understands that pain. Or, why I'm not miraculously healed because I now have baby E. That is, except those people who have also had miscarriages.

Luckily, I "met" a wonderful group of women after I had my first miscarriage. Amazing women who had also lost their little November babies. We would chat for hours on the message board-- We mourned together, and even sent each other little gifts on (what would have been) our due dates.

It was nice to have people who knew exactly how I felt. Because sadly, in "real" life, my miscarriage was too hard to talk about. I was too afraid to make other people feel uncomfortable.

I will forever be grateful to them for showing me that it's okay to be sad, and that it's okay to mourn. Even all these years later.

Maybe those babies never had a chance to have a body here on this earth, but to us--Those babies will always be ours.
__________

October 15th is National pregnancy and infant loss remembrance day. Did you know?

I did. Because, I am one in four.

-I am one in four who has lost a baby before I was able to meet them. Three babies, to be exact.

-I am one in four who has experienced the pain, tears, and heartache of wanting a baby so badly, then having them taken from me far too soon.

-I am one in four who has felt the loneliness and isolation that miscarriages often times bring.

-I am one in four who miss my babies everyday, even though I never got a chance to hold them.

-I am one in four who watched my dreams for those babies shatter right before my eyes...And, there was nothing I could do about it.

-I am one in four and I'm ready to break the silence.

One in four women experience pregnancy or infant loss. That is a crazy statistic, yet, it's still such a taboo subject. People are often times too afraid to talk about their losses, because they are afraid of what others might think or say. So instead, they suffer in silence.

Don't you think it's time to educate others about miscarriage, still birth, and infant loss, so that others no longer have to silently grieve? I do.
It's time to help our friends live with their losses, not get over them, and it's time to let grieving mothers talk about their losses, without feeling like they are making others feel uncomfortable.

I am the face. I am one in four.
And, I bet a lot of your other friends are, too.

Learn more here.

Similarities and Differences

2011-10-12T00:23:00.002-06:00

El and I have a lot in common, but we're also different in our own ways.

Take this photo, for example:

Similarity #1- We're both losing our hair.

Difference #1- Her's is normal baby hair loss. Ya know, from rubbing her head on her mattress? Mine is post partum hairloss. What the heck? No one even warned me about this. I'm scared to shower because every time I wash my hair handfulls (I wish I were exaggerating!) of hair falls out. Apparently it's normal, but still. What the heck (again)!?

Similarity #2- We both have nice colored lips.

Difference #2- Her's are au naturale. Pretty, right?...Mine? Lipstick. I can't complain though. Because I actually like wearing lipstick these days. Ever since my sister forced me to buy some at the mall, I've been completely hooked. It helps me feel like I got ready. Even when I, um...Didn't.

Similarity #3- We both have double chins.

Difference #3- She can rock hers. I can't.

Blog Friends

2011-10-11T18:20:00.004-06:00

Do you ever read a blog and see groups of friends hosting dinner parties (uh, Little Miss Momma (she's onea my blog crushes, bee.tee.dub) and feel completely jealous?

I do!

I also feel jealous when I read posts about friends who have craft night.

I mean, where do you even find people like this?

I wanna eat a fancy dinner and craft with people. f'real. Thankfully, the Internet (this blog and my craft blog) have helped me meet a wider range of friends, to help fill that little void.

I think Not Just a Housewife said it best when she said:

"I have friends and they are darling and fun and I love them. But not very many are interested in what I am interested in. I will admit to feeling alone at times. Going to my first blogging conference and meeting people who thought like me and didn’t get that glossy eyed look when I talked about it was AMAZING. I Love all my blog friends who are now my real life friends. I finally feel like I have a group that I “fit” in."
I mean, I've never been to a blog conference, but I definitely feel that way about you blog readers! I love that the Internet has allowed me to make new friends. Maybe we're not quite hosting dinner parties and crafting all night, but it's just as good.
Thanks for reading my blog and giving me the validation I need.

For your viewing pleasure

2011-10-07T22:09:00.001-06:00

(and so fam can steal pictures, you know!)

Ah, I just really can't get enough of her. And, how is she already four months old? Make it stop!

(her hair!)

(and this one is thrown in because she thought photobooth was HILARIOUS)

take a chance

2011-10-05T12:43:00.002-06:00

Once, Tyler and I went on a double date with my sister and her husband. We went to Provo Beach Resort armed with close toed shoes and all the excitement in the world. We were so ready to try out their rope's course.

Only, once we got there I started getting a little scared. The ropes course was sooo high. And, those harnesses were sooo...harnessy. I don't know. They were intimidating though. And, whoa. Was I really afraid of heights? I had no idea.

So, I thought I'd be sneaky and be like "Wait. If all of us do the rope's course how will we even get any pictures?"...But, no one really bought that because they were all worried I'd miss out on all the fun. So, I thought of other ways to dodge getting up there. Like, saying I needed to go to the bathroom and stuff.

Sadly, none of that worked. And, since I give in to peer pressure really easily, I got all harnessed up and ready to go.

So, there I was! Getting ready to climb the stairs up to the rope's course. I was terrified, but no one knew I was super scared. Well, that is, until I started shaking and saying "I can't do this. I'm too scared!" Unfortunately, I was already all clipped into the course and other people were clipped in behind me. There was no way out.

Of course, I kind of started to cry. I'm serious. I teared up and held on for dear life to a pole. Suddenly, a worker man was heading toward me. He had a look of pity in his eyes, as he asked me what was wrong. I mumbled "...I'm scared!" to him. He kind of laughed and pointed me in the direction of the lower rope's course. The one where all the kids went to practice before they went for the big guns. So I was like "Oh, cool! I can totally do that lower one." Only, then I got down there and realized I was still terrified.

All these little kids were zooming past me being all crazy...Running across the course being all "Look ma! No hands!" and stuff. It was awful.

Then, I decided "Hey...Ummm...The sooner you do this thang, the sooner you can get outta here"...So, I took the first step. Then another. And another! I was on top of the world on that kiddie rope's course. You should have seen me!

The point is, I think a lot of times in life I limit myself. I always think I "can't" do something. Or, I'm too scared to try something. But, once I actually try, I realize that I'm stronger than I think I am. So, I need to take more chances, don't you think?

P.S. Did anyone else turn into a scaredy cat after having a baby? I swear, I am scared of everything now. I can't even watch scary movies anymore. And, I'm suddenly afraid of bugs. Weird stuff.

Reece's Rainbow-Henry

2011-09-22T10:17:00.002-06:00

Reece's Rainbow is a ministry that helps orphans with Down Syndrome find their forever families. They also help raise awareness and funds so that these children can find a home and avoid being institutionalized with no human interaction.

You can read more about Reece's Rainbow by going here.
_____________________

All of my life, I have had this strange little feeling that one day I would have a child with special needs. I always sort of just brushed it off because I thought I was just being paranoid or something.

Then, as I was designing a blog for a client, I was introduced to Reece's Rainbow. I was in awe at this woman's love for a child she had never even met before. I spent hours looking at the site, and falling in love with all the sweet children who were without families. My heart literally ached for them.

After a few months of secretly signing on to the Reece's Rainbow site, I knew I couldn't kid myself anymore. I truly began to believe that one of those babies was mine. And, what's even more crazy, was that Tyler agreed. One of those cuties is ours, and we'll find a way to bring one of them home to us some day.

Unfortunately, we just don't have the means to do so right now (this is what I was up late thinking about the other night). Adopting one of these children can cost anywhere from $20,000-$35,000. Ouch.

We've talked about getting an adoption loan, applying for grants, fundraising, and numerous other options in order to bring one of those precious children home to us. We've prayerfully asked for ways we can accomplish this, but we're not quite there yet. We're still trying to work out the logistics for all of this.

But, in the mean time, I couldn't just sit around and do nothing. So, that's why I've committed to help raise money for one of the Reece's Rainbow children. The goal is to raise at least $1,000 for their future family to use toward the cost of their adoption. Every penny that we help raise will bring this child that much closer to being home with their own family by next Christmas.

I've decided to become a Christmas Warrior for Henry:

Is he not the cutest little guy you've ever seen? Henry is 3 years old (that's not a recent picture, obvs.) and desperately needs a family who meets this criteria:

SINGLE MOMS WELCOME!
One parent must be US citizen
Both parents must be between 30-54 years old
Married at least 2 years, if previously married see more details
No more than 6 children at home
Previous experience with Down syndrome preferred
Minimum of $10,000 of annual income per family member, including the new child you hope to adopt
A minimum of $80,000 net worth
Health good, no history of cancer
No medication for depression, anxiety, or schizophrenia
Body Mass Index (BMI) must be under 40
No criminal record or alcohol within the past 10 years
Only one parent must travel

If you feel the urge to help little Henry out, you are more than welcome to donate to his fund by going here.

Or, you can save those pennies and wait until November 1, when Christmas Warriors officially begins (all donations of $35 or more will receive a Christmas ornament). I'm sure I'll be bombarding you with posts once November 1st hits.

I can't sleep

2011-09-20T00:27:00.002-06:00

My mind is going like a million miles a minute. I tried waking Tyler up to talk about it...But, I think I lost him when I started talking about a rug I want to make. He was like "oh...paint? rug? huh?" and then went silent. I'm kind of offended. Because, painting rugs is really important these days. You know?

Luckily, he humored me for a few minutes before that. We chatted about money. Ew. Money chat is annoying. But, it wasn't normal money chat. You know, the kind where you're like "we need more money so I can buy cuter clothes"?...It was more like "I really need a way to get *insert amount here* because *fill in the blank*"...He agreed with me, because that blank is something both of us feel we need/want/have to have at some point in our lives--Preferably like, um...Now. Great. Now you're thinking we want a house boat or something. We don't. Maybe someday if we come up with a grand plan to earn/raise/whatever that money, we'll fill you in. I really hope I get to tell you guys. Because, thinking about it makes my heart hurt. Alright?

My mind is also thinking a lot about food. I've made a goal to make dinner every day this week. This is huge, people. I can probably count on my hand how many times I've cooked dinner (like, actual dinner and not just rice). So far, I've cooked twice in a row. Pretty good, right? Going for three tomorrow. Only, I'm not sure it'll happen because Tyler has the day off and we'll probably be running all around and end up grabbing something. Don't let us!

Oh my gosh, and my mind is thinking about next Monday. Next Monday we're going to visit Tyler's family in California. We're so excited! Eloise hasn't met Tyler's brother or sister, so we can't wait for them to see her and kiss her all over those chubby cheeks. Only, we're not so excited about the flight. El is usually a pretty laid back baby...But, I'm guessing on the flight she won't be a very happy camper since we'll have to wake her up super early to leave. Ah. Hopefully she'll sleep the whole time. I'm also paranoid that I'm going to forget her white onsie, headband, and quilt that I need for her four month pictures. How is she even four months already (on the 30th) anyway? I refuse to even believe it.

Anyway, aside from money, California, and painted rugs, I can't sleep because everyone in my bed right now is snoring so loud. Don't worry--Only one of them is human. I'm not sleeping with other people, I swear. Just one guy (Tyler, if you were wondering) and two dogs. How's a girl supposed to sleep when eeeveryone snores? It's hard. So, I guess I'll go look at Pinterest or something.

Pictchas

2011-09-14T23:44:00.000-06:00

Sorry for the lack of Eloise pictures in my last post. Hopefully these will make up for it. AND! A video even. She laughs now. Could things get any better?

As always, sorry for the phone pictures.

Look how long her hair is getting! I can't believe it still sticks straight up with all that hair. Also, those bald spots kill me.

Grami Tami attempted to curl her hair. It worked....For a few minutes. Then, it just went right back to straight up.

I just...Have no words.

Those pants.

White pants after Labor Day. Uh oh.

She LOVES the cover on my phone, so whenever I get it out to take a picture she poses like this for me with a huge gummy smile. She's the best

And last, her laughing. Ahh! Cutest of my whole life.

The best laughs are toward the end. You'll also need to turn your volume way up to hear her. I'm super loud and she is way way quiet. Please ignore my annoying voice. I was trying to get her to laugh like she was before we started taping her. Of course, it didn't work. Ah!

September 13, 2010

2011-09-13T13:00:00.001-06:00

September 13th may seem like just another normal day to you. But for me, it's the day that changed my life forever.

Last September 13th was the day I got pregnant with the pregnancy that stuck (now known as Eloise). TMI, maybe? I don't think so. Mainly because it's not like the day was terribly romantic or anything. I mean, Tyler wasn't even there when it happened. Just me, the nurse, and a long syringe. See? Nothing too fancy.

Anyway, I remember driving to my doctor's clinic. It was about 35 minutes away, and it was the longest drive of my life. I remember feeling sad. Really really really sad. Partially because I was going alone (Tyler had to work), and partially because I was sure it wouldn't work and that we were just wasting our money. I also remember I was terrified. I had no idea what to expect and I had heard that it hurt really bad. So, I decided to listen to some Taylor Swift. I don't know why, really. I just thought it would ease my mind or something. Nothing a little twang can't fix, right?

The first song I listened to was The Best Day. You know, the song Taylor Swift wrote for her mom? Of course, it made me cry. Mainly because it made me think of my own mom and how great she was (and is) at being my mom. And, what a good childhood she made for me. And on and on and on. Then, the part where she says "I have an excellent father, his strength is makin' me stronger" really got to me too, because that's true too. THEN! Then, it said "God smiles on my little brother, inside and out he's better than I am"...Because, obviously if you replace that "little brother" bit with "big sister", it is totally about my sister.

So, there I was bawling in my car because this song was totally about my whole life (remember, I was on fertility drugs (namely, Femara), and that made me super crazy. So, pretend this was all a totally normal thing to do)... I probably looked ridiculous. But, I didn't care. I just listened to that song over and over and over. And, somewhere around the fourth time listening to it in a row, I got this crazy feeling like "Hey Erika, this is going to work. You're going to me a mama"...But, I pushed that feeling into the back of my mind and instead focused on "yeah, my sister really is better than me inside and out...How did Taylor even know?" and "My mom really was on my side, even when I was wrong...I was wrong a lot...That must've been hard for her" because, the alternative was just too much for my heart to take right then. I couldn't allow myself to get my hopes up.

Once I got to my doctor's office, I remember looking around the waiting room and thinking "this better be the last time I see this place."...Then, I looked to my right and saw a really cute couple. They looked really sad, worried, and hopeful all at the same time. I couldn't help but pray for them in my head. I prayed really hard that they'd get their baby that they so desperately wanted. I really hope that they did.

By the time I was done praying, my name was called. I walked slowly back to the surgical room. I remember being really surprised at all the hidden rooms I had no idea were in there. Then, I changed into my robe and waited.

A really pretty lady came into the room (to which, I thought "Whoa. She's really pretty. I was expecting an old man to so this or something...uhhh") and explained the whole procedure and made sure that she was using the right "stuff" in the syringe thing. Once all that was cleared, I signed some papers (who even knows what they said) and we chatted for a bit. When I'm nervous, I say really stupid things. So, I tried to block out most of our small talk. What sticks out, though, is me asking "Sooo...How often does this even work the first time?" to which, she replied "I've never really kept tally. But, I mean...I guess I could start keeping track after today." And, I said something dumb like "yeah. I'll be the first tally under "first time"...Or something like that. She gave me a pity laugh and got to work.

When she was finished, I laid there for a few minutes, and for the first time in months, I felt good. I felt a peace, and I knew that I'd be a mom--Whether it was from that IUI, or a future one. I knew it would happen.

So, on the way home, I listened to that song again. But, this time without the tears. This time, it was with smiles and great memories of my childhood. And, most importantly, it was with hope for the future.

Wannado Link Party #4

2011-09-04T12:14:00.000-06:00

I've gotta say, this link party has really helped me get things accomplished. I had so much fun last week getting out of the house with my baby. Even if it wasn't for very long. It felt so great to be away from home for a bit.

How did your "wannado" turn out last week? Did you accomplish everything on your list?
________

This week for my wannado, I want to track everything I eat onto My Fitness Pal. I started earlier today, and holy cow. I've only eaten lunch and I'm already almost over the amount of calories a breastfeeding mom should have in an entire day. And, all I've even eaten so far is some mozzarella sticks and a few pieces of popcorn chicken. That's nuts.
I'm not trying to limit my food intake, I just think it'll help me to make better choices in what I put in my mouse (or mouth...Woops!).

So, what about you? What's your wannado for the week?

As always, you can link up at the bottom of this post, or you're also more than welcome to post about it in the comment section. I LOVE hearing your goals. They usually inspire me to do more in my life, as well.

Another Photo Dump

2011-09-01T23:29:00.001-06:00

It's true. I had to empty my phone again. Too many pictures of the girl, I reckon (I've always wanted to say reckon, I'm so so sorry).

So, here are a select few I loved. They're all instagram pictures. Oops.

Anyway, they're in no particular order. Because, come on. It's too hard to organize pictures with Blogger. Amirite?

Okay, really. Enough chitchat. Here we go.

Pheeew.

3 months

2011-08-31T15:12:00.001-06:00

"You are my baby, my only baby. You make me happy when skies are gray. You'll never know El, how much I love you. Please don't take my El girl away."

That's the song we begin every day with. We both smile and laugh at each other. And coo, there's always cooing. Then, we talk about how gross your diaper is. To which, you usually reply with a few more hearty toots. And, every once in a while, a huge pee that gets all over the wall. Who knew girls could do that? I sure didn't. And, that's not the only thing you've taught me, you know.

In fact, in these short three months that we've known each other, you've taught me more than I've learned in my whole life prior to you.

You have taught me to go outside of my comfort zone and to not be quite so shy. You've helped me come out of my shell and be the person I've always wanted to be.

You've taught me the importance of friendship. And, how wonderful it feels to feel needed. You are the best little buddy a mom could ask for.

You have taught me that it's okay to feel exhausted. And, it's okay to not be everything. You still love me regardless...And, hopefully others do too.

You've also taught me that I am capable. That I can do anything I put my mind to. Even if it seems impossible (um, hello breastfeeding).

And, perhaps most importantly, you have taught me to love with all my heart. To love completely, and to love unconditionally. I say this so often, but I'll say it again, I feel like my heart is going to explode because I just love you so much. I hope that you grow up always knowing that.

So, we end our day like we always do. With a song. Because, after all, "you're so special to me, sweet as can be, baby of mine."

Wannado Link Party #3

2011-08-28T22:32:00.000-06:00

Eloise is now back to her normal, happy, baby self and I really couldn't be more happy. It was so heartbreaking to see our little girl so sad. Now...If we could only find a way to make sure she never gets sick again...A bubble, maybe? I could even Mod Podge it? I'll think about it. Because honestly, the girl is just to cute to get sick. Ever.

Here's proof:

This picture was taken by my sista, Abbie. I had to screen shot it and crop it to steal it. Pretty bad A, huh? That's El's adorable cousin Issy. AKA the best babysitter in the world. She's a baby whisperer, I swear.

Anyway! It's Sunday, so that means it's time for another Wannado party. Anyone up for it? Maybe three links this time? Anyone? Anyone?

For my wannado goal this week, I want to get out of the house a bit more.
It has become super easy for me to just stay home with El all the time. She's my little buddy, and I get so caught up in just being with her. Then, at the end of the week, I realize I've been cooped up all.week.long and just want to get out of the house.

SO, I'm hoping to make a few trips to "the outside world" this week. Maybe even to the little thrift shop I've been wanting to check out. We'll see how adventurous we get!

So tell me, what's your goal for the week? Even if you don't want to write about it on your blog, feel free to let me know in the comments! I'd love to know and get inspired by your wannados!

Oh, and please let me know if my button is still going wacky. I tried to fix it, but it's being kind of crazy!Oh also! Does anyone else have the "new" blogger that's all minimal and orange? No one I know has it and it's driving me crazy. I want the old Blogger back. Okay, that's all!

2011-08-24T12:29:00.000-06:00

I thought my mama friends could use this today. I know I did.
Go here to watch.
You're not JUST a mom, ya know.

:(

2011-08-22T14:01:00.002-06:00

Sorry I didn't post the "wannado" party yesterday. I really planned on it, but then my girl got sick. I would still love to hear about how last weeks goal went for you, though! Let me know in the comments.

Anyway, Eloise has a cold and it is so heartbreaking. She's been crying all day yesterday and today. I feel awful! She keeps sticking her bottom lip out so far and pouting. It's really the saddest thing I've ever seen. So, if you have any tips for me, that'd be wonderful. Anything to help this little gal feel better.

We've tried a humidifier, saline drops, and that stupid hospital snot sucker thing. So far, all that seems to be helping her is me cuddling her. Which, of course, I don't mind doing. So seriously, send your best remedies my way!

Also, total first time mom question here--How long do these things usually last? For some reason I had it in my head that she'd feel better by today. Um, not happening. I guess I was just hoping for the best!

Okay, she just woke up from her little cat nap (she's slept a total of about an hour and a half since yesterday morning :( ... ) so I better go cuddle her some more!

just a few instagram pictures

2011-08-15T17:17:00.003-06:00

from last week

"wannado" link party #2

2011-08-14T16:05:00.016-06:00

How did your goal go from last week? Be sure to comment and let me know!

I'll be honest and tell you that mine didn't go so hot. I bought all the stuff to make my binder and put it all together...But, that's about as far as I got. No cute printables were made or anything. This week was just so hectic, that I totally forgot about it. Bummer. Hopefully this week I'll get some down time and get it all finished.
___________
For my wannado this week, I want to clean out my closet and get rid of everything that I haven't worn in a long time (like, in over a year in a half), or the things that have holes in them (basically all my shirts)...It's going to be super depressing seeing how empty my closet will be, but it needs to happen!

What's your wannado for the week?

k, seriously

2011-08-10T00:38:00.002-06:00

I feel like I'm going to burst every time I look at this girl.

Is she not the cutest baseball fan you've ever seen?

Can'ts

2011-08-08T16:12:00.007-06:00

quote font from here

I love finding random blogs to read. Especially if those random blogs are written by someone completely inspiring, like Jenna, for example.

The other day, I was feeling pretty overwhelmed with every thing I needed to get done around here. Plus, my baby had just gotten her first set of immunizations, and we were feeling completely worn out (is there anything more sad that a sick baby?)...Luckily, I stumbled upon her blog at exactly the right moment. This post, in particular, stood out to me. She wrote about how lots of times, she tells herself she can't do something, when in reality she can, if she just believes in herself.

I know, that sounds super cheesy. But, isn't it true? So many times we count ourselves out of something because we think we can't do it. I know for me, I say "I can't" way too often.

Like, I can't wake up and work out because I'm too tired. I can't eat healthy foods because it takes to long to prepare (what?). I can't make new friends because I'm too shy. I can't ever be as creative as so-and-so. I can't learn to sew, because I'll suck at it. And, the list goes on and on.

I need to wipe all those can'ts out of my head, and realize that I can do anything, if I just try.

Do you have the case of the can'ts? Or, are you one of the lucky ones who realize your potential all the time?

"wannado" link party #1

2011-08-06T22:55:00.001-06:00

I am so excited that you guys wanted to do a little goal makin' party with me. I really think it'll help me accomplish some things around here, knowing that I have the support of my fellow bloggers.

This week, I brainstormed a ton about what I wanted my first goal to be. I have so many things that I want to do and so many things that I want to be (hence, the new blog name). So, it was a little hard trying to narrow it down to one thing.

Thankfully, I was finally able to choose something that is much needed in my household, and something I think will be fun for me.

This week, my "wannado" (that's fancy for my goal) is to create a family binder. I know, I know. My family is still tiny. BUT, I really think we could really benefit from having everything important (like-- to do lists, bills, important phone numbers, meal plans, etc.) in one place.

Here's my favorite binder for inspiration.
Dreamy, right?

I'm so excited to get started. If you have any tips on what to include, or where to find more inspiration, please send them my way! I would love to hear your ideas.

Okay! On to the linky party. What is YOUR goal for the week?

Oh, wait. Some rules need to be set, right?
1. Please link to your actual post about your goal, not to your entire blog.
(ex: don't link www.te-senneff.blogspot.com, instead link http://te-senneff.blogspot.com/2011/08/new-name-same-blog.html)
2. Be sure to visit other people who have linked up and offer them your advice and support.
3. Add this button to your posts so that your friends can play along!

Okay, are you ready to paaartaay?
(I'm totally prepared for no one to link up to this...But, I can take it...I hope)

new name, same blog

2011-08-05T19:22:00.002-06:00

So, here's what happened.

I was talking to Tyler and I was like "ya know, you never write on our blog." and he said something like "ya, I don't have anything to write about"...And I was like "Um, Eloise...DUH. It's a family blog" and then he was like "maybe you should make it into something more than just a family blog, since you write about more than just our family"

It sounds like a fight. But, it wasn't, I swear.

To prove it, we brainstormed for days on a new name for the blog. I wanted to call it "A Little Bit Frumpy", but Tyler refused to call me frumpy (bless his heart)...So! Instead, we decided to name it "wannabe"...Because, you guys, there are SO MANY things that I want to be. Like, someone who actually cooks dinner, for instance.

So, there you go. A new blog name. Hopefully it'll help me blog more since now I don't have to stick to one subject (hah! Like I did anyway. Well, I mean, besides El)...But, don't worry all you Eloise lovers. I am sure she'll make the blog all the time still. I mean, how could I not post about her? Or, at least a picture?

Ahh. Her rolls. She's only 10 pounds and in the 20th percentile for weight...Sooo cute.

Oh, and she's 2 months old. Soooo sad.

What do you think?

2011-07-31T19:55:00.001-06:00

I really super suck at accomplishing goals. Well, okay I take that back. I really super suck at accomplishing goals that include housework. Or organizing. Or like...errands. I know...Really top notch, right?

But, I've decided to be better...Or, at least try harder. Which is why I'm blogging about it right now.

This might be a big huge fail, but I was thinking (stick with me here!)...I'll post every Sunday about my goal for the week. Then, I'll also post a little linky party (it would be totally an intimate party for us, too since this here blog isn't big) for YOU to add your goal for the week. Theeen, everyone can go read about each others goals and cheer each other on.

I just feel like it would be a fun way to get to know you guys a little better. Plus, it would help me accomplish a little bit more each day.

Does that sound good? Maybe completely dumb? I don't know. I need your input. Would any of you even participate?

El's Hair

2011-07-26T23:27:00.001-06:00

I love bath time around here. It's one of my favorite parts of my day (every other day)...Eloise is usually in a great mood and loves being in the water, and I love how it makes her smell. Aside from her being adorable and smelling amazing, I love to watch how her hair goes from flat to straight up, in a fifteen minute time span.

So, I had to document it. It's seriously the best.
(sorry for the weird coloring in the pictures. She likes her lights dimmed so she can start to fall asleep after her bath)

Here she is fresh out of the bath. I combed her hair down, and even put a little part in it.

Then, I put her diaper on and lotioned her up real good. See how her hair is just barely starting to stick up on the side?

After that, I put on her pajamas (I didn't touch her hair at all) and her hair looked like this afterward. Still flat on the other side of the part.

Here she is over in our favorite chair. We sat and chatted a bit while her hair dried some more. I love how the part is still there, but the side is sticking out. So cute.

Then, it was time for daddy to say goodnight to her.

After that, I nursed her and put her in her favorite bedtime swaddle (she seriously loves that thing)....Her hair was almost completely dry at this point. I think it's so funny that her part went away and every part of her hair is sticking straight up.

Oooh...I love this girl and her hair.

House Envy

2011-07-21T14:42:00.002-06:00

I have house envy. Bad.

I think I'll blame it on Pinterest. Or, maybe on the fact that we've lived here over a year and the only decorated room is El's. Ooor, maybe because this house is just temporary and I'm scared it won't sell one day if we really make it "ours".

I don't know. All I know is that I'm done being scared, and I'm planning to paint up a storm. I can't wait! Now...I just need millions of dollars. But, since that's not going to happen--I guess I'll just have to become a DIYer.

SO! I need your help. What are your favorite decorating blogs or sites? I need some inspiration!

Whoa

2011-07-20T23:07:00.004-06:00

Two posts in two minutes? Who am I?
Oh yeah, a Harry Potter Obsessed girl.

Tyler said it was nerdy. I said it was the best. I kind of am in love with them, I think.

loving

2011-07-20T22:59:00.000-06:00

Ever since Tyler and I decided to start our family, I knew that I'd love my babies in a way that I'd never loved anything else.
Every single day that went by that we were still babyless, I loved them even more. And, even today, I find that love growing for my baby girl--And for my future babies.

So, although I was expecting to love Eloise...I didn't know that it would feel like this.
Like, my heart is going to burst out of my chest every time I see her. Or, like I need to kiss every little inch of her little arms...And all over her face millions of times a day. Just while I can. Because, inevitably, one day, she won't let me anymore.

One day, I won't be the funniest person in the world to her anymore.

One day I won't be able to smell her yummy little baby scent after her bath.

And, one day, I won't get to hold her close everyday and cuddle while she eats (while sippin' a dc, of course).

(among other things)

She'll be grown up way too soon. And, that makes this mama sad.

So...For now, I'm just going to take way too many pictures.

Kiss those cute little toes too many times.

Read stories all day.

Study every single roll on her chubby little arms.

And, enjoy every little adventure life throws at us.

(half of these pictures are cellphone pictures again. Sorry! I'm doing a little bit better using my real camera though)

It's official

2011-07-14T17:29:00.000-06:00

I got a mom hair cut.

(please try to ignore my no makeup face and huge bags under my eyes)

I was going to just cut it to my shoulders (I had baaad split ends), but instead I walked out with a super short do. And, ya know what? I like it. Judge all you want. At least I don't have barf in my hair anymore. Am I right?

And, as always. This post needs the cuteness factor. Here's El in a cute little number her Grami Tami whipped up for her for Melissa's bridal shower. Can you believe those sandals? They had a little peep hole. Ahhh. Seriously.