tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66141029986165832462024-03-21T16:27:30.347-07:00Growing Up ParsonsUpdates on life with a toddler!
<a href="http://lilypie.com/"><img src="http://lb2f.lilypie.com/Lv6Xm4.png" width="400" height="80" border="0" alt="Lilypie Second Birthday tickers"></a>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.comBlogger206125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-25390814686522051762012-09-30T11:44:00.001-07:002012-09-30T11:44:33.799-07:00One month old....I can't believe how fast it's going. It seems like time is slipping by. He's 6 weeks already..but as usual...I'm behind. He's growing like a weed...as you can see in the picture :)<br />
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He's such a good baby. He eats at least every 2 hours...but lately he's stretching some of them to 3 hours during the day. We feel like we're getting a little more sleep at night...but I would seriously love a 5 hour stretch right about now. Amazing how little sleep you can actually function on. Coffee is truly my bestie these days. We tried the miracle blanket with him again, and he's liking it now...thank goodness. Ellie LOVED that thing and was so helpful for putting her to sleep...and it's working it's magic on Riley now too. But one big difference....he is already able to wiggle out of it...he's a little Houdini :) Helps that he's almost 12 lbs too!! Ellie called him "squirmy wormy" when I was pregnant with him...and I have to say...the shoe fits!! He's constantly wiggling his little legs and arms. I think he's going to be one active little boy!!<br />
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I'm feeling great...my c-section incision has healed nicely...and I go in for my check up this coming week. I have to say...recovery from this one was much better. I felt more like myself a lot faster this time...plus the pregnancy weight melted off right away. Can't ask for much more!!<br />
<br />Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-63290028296496991192012-09-15T13:53:00.001-07:002012-09-15T13:53:28.314-07:00Yes...I'm alive :) He's here!! And he's almost a month old already!! Wow...time sure does get away from ya now doesn't it? He arrived safely on our scheduled c-section day..August 17th at 8:03 am. He was a big guy...weighing in at an impressive 9lbs 8oz and 20.5 inches long!! We were floored he was that big!! Had no idea...and we were all guessing around the 8 pound mark....so he had us fooled :)<br />
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Transitioning to life with 2 is going well so far. It helped that we had Grammie C with us for a whole month. It's only been a few days without her...and it feels like forever since she was here. Come back Grammie!! Ellie is in love with her brother and is such a big helper. We haven't seen any signs of jealousy or anything so far...so that's good. She just really wants to help with everything...and right now I can use the help :)<br />
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His delivery was much better than Ellie's. I was really afraid of freaking out in the OR...but I kept focusing on my breathing and that's what got me through. The spinal block was really weird...and I felt really yucky for a good 5 minutes after they put it in...but then that went away and I tried to just focus on the end result. The dr did put up a mirror so I could see them pull him out and it was amazing...the best part of all of it. As soon as everyone saw his head they were all saying...wow...that's a big baby!! Lol..guess they were right :) Recovery from the c-section this time is going well...I was up and moving around that night..and have only had to take ibuprofen for the pain. Recovering at home is much better this time too...thank goodness.<br />
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Here's some pics I took of him when he was 7 days old...<br />
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As you can see...she's a very proud big sister!!!</div>
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I can't wait to post info next week on his 1 month checkup...fingers crossed he's gaining weight well. Nursing is going along splendidly...and he's a hearty eater. Sometimes I feel like I can't fill him up....and I'm guessing I better just get used to that fact...it's preparing me for the pre-teen/teenage years :)</div>
<br />Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-2158891923874630622012-07-02T11:29:00.002-07:002012-07-02T11:29:23.826-07:00Oh my....It's July. And I skipped ALL of June. Ooops. What can I say...I'm busy cooking a baby :) Lol. Heading into 33 weeks this week...and I can officially say...our baby will be born next month. Holy. Cow. Next month. That sounds really scary...and makes me want to start cleaning like a mad woman!! I think the nesting has started already. I made E help me organize all her craft/crayons/coloring books today. We got that all organized...and I'm just itching to get into our hall closet and start throwing away all sorts of stuff. It's amazing how much you accumulate over the years. The more I realize it...the better. I try to go through old clothes each season and toss out...and I think I do a pretty good job of managing that. The problem I have is the clutter monster. Things just pile up in different places. The mail pile is my nemesis. We really need a better system of organizing the mail...and I feel like I need to get something in place before baby boy gets here....and all heck breaks loose!!<br />
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I'm into my second month of planning a whole month's menu in advance...and I have to say...I love it. It helps to plan stuff way ahead of time...and I know it's going to help once the baby is here. Oh that reminds me...I should probably start working on August's menu right now...while I still have my wits about me :) I just make a list of all the ingredients I will need for that month...and highlight which ones I need to get each week. I wish I could do all my grocery shopping in one big trip for the month...but that's just insane. I like fresh produce..and I just have to do it once a week. I'm trying to get our food budget down too....because it's...quite frankly....ridiculous how much we spend on food each month. It's not like we're buying junk...cuz junk food is cheap...we're buying fresh organic produce from Whole Foods...and that adds up fast. The nice thing about summer is the local farmers markets...so we'll be taking advantage of that :)<br />
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Anywhoo....feeling good overall...just hot hot hot all the time. As soon as I step outside I start swearing...err...sweating...and it doesn't stop until I get back home. E enjoyed her 2 weeks of entry level swimming lessons...and so did I!! I got to be in the water with her...so that was a great way to cool off for a couple weeks. The instructor would have us sit on the side and stick our feet in to get used to the cooler water temperature...but inside I was just like..."let me jump in already!!" Lol. We went ahead and got a family membership to the pool so E & I will be going again this week to practice everything she learned :)<br />
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Not much else going on for us....just taking it day by day. Everything is looking good with baby boy...and he's growing like a weed in there. He is breech...so that explains why i feel kicks down my legs instead of rib kicks...and I doubt he'll get himself turned around the right way. Since we're having a scheduled c-section it doesn't really matter...except they'll probably pull him out feet first :) I'm glad our dr. has to do that and not me :)Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-40222463638410167422012-05-16T18:55:00.001-07:002012-05-16T18:55:25.760-07:00YIKES!It's May...and the last time I blogged was the end of March. Ouch! Sorry folks...this is what happens when life happens :) Tomorrow marks 26 weeks...and this little guy is a mover and shaker. I don't ever remember E kicking like this. Is it because it's been so long...or is it because it's a boy this time..and his kicks are just more forceful? I don't remember seeing my whole belly move like this until the end with E...and he does this all the time. I guess we'll soon find out. He also likes to kick and punch around midnight...so that doesn't bode well for us....<br />
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We're plugging away with getting everything ready. The shared room painting is 90% done...just need M to finish one tiny bit of pink wall that's left...and we're good. We need to get letters to spell out both of the kids names above their beds...and we need to get some blue/green/yellow bedding for the cradle he'll be sleeping in right away. Other than that stuff...we're pretty well set. It's so good we went gender neutral on the big things like the car seat, swing and bouncy seat. I can't imagine buying all new of that stuff.<br />
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I get heartburn pretty much at the drop of a hat these days. If I bend over...I get heartburn. If I even look at a tomato..I get heartburn. So Zantac 75 and Tums are my best friends these days. I am super sensitive to smells still. That's been a constant with this whole pregnancy. I don't ever remember being this sensitive with E....I gag pretty much every day when I have to wipe someone's tushy after she's went potty...and if the dog has been outside and has that "outside" smell....that makes me gag too. Weird I know. I wish I could explain it...but I can't. I had a really weird dream the other night....dreamt I was present for someone else's birth of their baby...and the baby came out with 4 teeth...and they were like fangs. So weird...and totally freaked me out that now our little guy is going to be born with teeth. Lord help us if we are!!! LOL.<br />
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Not too much else going on....glad I got on and updated. We'll keep you posted on all the happenings here :) Hugs!!Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-59780629550502844022012-03-30T09:34:00.002-07:002012-04-03T09:39:40.109-07:0019 weeks...and it's a BOY!Holy cow...was I ever shocked!! We all thought for sure it was another girl. We got the surprise of a lifetime :) Good thing we were able to find out now...and not at the end. This way we have time to get everything done...painting...and purchasing. We need to figure out some storage solutions for their shared room...and need to get cracking on some yellow paint. Luckily E & I will be gone for 2 weeks soon, so Daddy can work on the painting while we're gone.<div><br /></div><div>We're ecstatic to be having a boy...but it did take a little adjustment for me at first. It took me a good day to comprehend it all. I so want E to have a sister...so I had to let go of that vision I had in my head...and focus on all the great things a little boy brings to our lives :) </div><div><br /></div><div>He's been busy kicking up a storm...or as I say...practicing his throwing arm lately. I felt a punch/kick from outside my belly...so he's getting bigger in there :)</div><div><br /></div><div>Not too much else to report...considering this was BIG news :) We can't wait to meet our little man!!</div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-18921282827074177282012-03-15T06:38:00.002-07:002012-03-15T06:47:50.310-07:0017 weeks...and an almost 3 year oldWe're humming right along. I'm 17 weeks today, and feeling pretty good. I'm starting to get uncomfortable at night...so I hope maybe this is just a phase..or because it's been so warm lately. I'm not prepared to spend the rest of this pregnancy uncomfortable :) I know what to expect in the 3rd trimester...but not prepared for it this soon. Last appointment everything was good with baby...heart rate 155...so that still has us convinced it's a girl...but we'll see. We go for our ultrasound at the end of this month. We'll know then if we can relax...or if we need to get cracking on repainting...and buying boy clothes :)<div><br /></div><div>Other big news...our girl is going to be 3 on Saturday. I can't believe it. This year of 2's has went so fast. I can't believe how much she has changed in a year. We have actual conversations about all sorts of things...she plays so good by herself...she's become a bit of a social butterfly...which I thought would never happen...and she's just so mature. I love it...and then I don't. I want her to stay little...but I can't wait to see how much she changes this year. I'm sure we're in for a whole new set of experiences with her...especially involving a sibling...and then there's preschool that starts in the fall. I can't wait for all of it!! Happy early birthday to my angel girl :)</div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-5545920943654406632012-02-26T12:53:00.002-08:002012-02-26T13:00:20.224-08:0014 weeksSo I'm finally in my 2nd trimester...whoohoo...and feeling pretty darn good. I still need to take a nap during the day...or maybe a couple naps...but I'm hoping I get some energy back soon. I'm pretty sure I'm feeling the baby move around. It might sound kind of early to feel it...but it sure feels exactly what I felt with E. Like little bubbles..and it's been in consistent places. Who knows...I could be completely out of my mind..and it's just gas...but it sure feels like baby movement :)<div><br /></div><div>E & I have been having a good week. I've read a lot about how year 3 can be much more challenging compared to year 2. I have to say...in the last couple weeks...I probably agree with that...and she's not even 3 yet. There is definite increase in independence...but only about things she wants. If I ask her to get dressed by herself...does she want to do that??? No...of course not...but we're working on it. I'm not going to have as many hands as I once had when this baby gets here...so it will be a big help if she can learn to do this on her own. She has no problems picking out what she wants to wear...hahaha :) Typical girly girl :)</div><div><br /></div><div>So our goal for this coming week...break E of her nightie habit. We will only wear it at nap times...and once nap time is over we will get back into our regular clothes. It's gonna be a struggle...but I know I can win this one :) Wish me luck!!</div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-61425430390444567722012-02-22T14:05:00.000-08:002012-02-23T04:09:16.985-08:00Happy New Year..Valentine's Day..Chinese New Year...and all that...Yes...it's been forever since I blogged. I know...I know. My 365 project sort of took over my life last year...plus starting my business...and this past fall was jammed packed with sessions. Whew....I can breathe again. At least for a little while. Most of you know now that a new little Parsons baby is on it's way...whoohooo...and I'm finally starting to feel better. I start my 2nd trimester tomorrow...thank the Lord! This baby & I have had a rough start. All day nausea...occasional vomiting...lots of gagging....wanting to sleep ALL day. I've even turned E into a jammie only wearing child. We're working on that now...we only get to wear our jammies in the morning and at nap time..and then before bed. I think that's a good compromise until we can get back to full regular clothes. LOL. Good thing she'll be starting pre-school this fall!<div><br /></div><div>We recently returned from our family vacation to our favorite place..Disney World. This was her 3rd trip...and by far my favorite for watching her experience everything. She wasn't afraid of any of the characters...she went nuts over everything...it was awesome! We're already planning our next trip as a family of 4 :)</div><div><br /></div><div>Not a whole lot else going on...I know...we have a pretty boring life that I can only fill a couple paragraphs with information since last FALL! But...it's usually the same old routine every day with an almost 3 year old. I'm sure I'll have lots of stories to tell once this baby gets here...and I'm sure life with 2 children will be even more challenging...but even more rewarding :)</div><div><br /></div><div>So...I'm back...and I'll be posting family pictures up here again. I owe this surge of energy to get back into blogging to my dear college friend Bethany. She has started her own blog..and it got me back into that frame of mind. So thanks B!! :)</div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-63939109937372178802011-10-07T05:42:00.000-07:002011-10-07T05:46:50.012-07:00Imagination...<iframe width="420" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/ZvVERk6E8tE" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-23736907612785067052011-09-28T07:47:00.000-07:002011-09-28T08:11:03.172-07:00Oh Boy!Almost 2 months since I blogged here. Sorry!! Will fill you in on what's been happening here :) <div>Ellie is potty trained...whoohoo! She figured it out over a weekend...so that was awesome! That was back in August...so now she's been a full month...almost 2 months trained we're doing great. Not really any issues...gets up in the middle of the night to tell us she has to go...so other than interrupted sleep a few nights a week, we're good :)</div><div><br /></div><div>My business is going well. It's been busy..so that's part of the reason why this blog has been neglected. Life just gets more and more demanding sometimes, and I'm still trying to figure out how to balance it all. M is doing great...started a new job...and then started another new job :) I think he found the right fit this time...even if he still has to make that big commute. Fortunately, he gets to work from home 2 days a week...so we're looking forward to that :)</div><div><br /></div><div>I'm already thinking about and planning in my head for Ellie's 3rd birthday party. I can't believe I just wrote that. 3 years old soon. Where does it go? She's really into the Disney Princesses and all the Fairies...so guess where we're going again?? That's right....another Disney trip is planned for next year. Couldn't pass up a good deal :)</div><div><br /></div><div>Our days are filled with lots of conversations now...she makes full sentences...tells us about her emotions..demands I play with her...loves hugs and being tickled...and lots of "I love you's"...which is the best thing ever. She counts to 20..with help...and is learning her letters. We'll be searching for preschools this fall...and have to sign up in Feb...so that's a top priority right now. I can't believe this time next year I'll be by myself for a few hours during the week. Wow...think of all that I'll get done!! :) I hope :)</div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-5771974507278941702011-08-02T15:58:00.000-07:002011-08-02T16:06:12.059-07:00I missed a WHOLE MONTH?Whoa...ok...apologies all around. I missed ALL of July. Well...I had a good excuse. Ellie & I were gone for 12 days...so that was like half of the month...and the rest of the month was spent trying to prepare for those 12 days :)<div><br /></div><div>So..what have we been doing with our days? Not much...mostly the same ol same ol. Get up...eat breakfast...watch Mickey Mouse Clubhouse...hit the gym on Wed/Thurs/Fri...and then the grocery store on Tuesdays. Ellie did do gymnastics for 3 weeks..even though we paid for 6...doesn't help we were gone a lot. I think she enjoyed it...but me on the other hand...I didn't so much. Too many "stage" moms...and pushy kids. I seriously need to get a thicker skin towards people like that...because I'm sure it won't be the last of it. I am looking forward to her dance class starting next month. I know she enjoys that...and I do too :) What else? Well...I've been busy preparing for a busy month. I have 4 shoots scheduled this month...so fingers crossed I get my nose to the grindstone on editing. I have a 9 month old, 2- 3month olds and a newborn. :)</div><div><br /></div><div>We do have a big change coming up on the 15th. M will be starting his new job...so we're extremely excited about that...and he'll be SO much closer to home!! Yippppeee!! That makes for a very happy Ellie & Mommy when we get to see more of Daddy!!</div><div><br /></div><div>We're planning a quick getaway next week...and then it's work work work for us both. </div><div>Not much else going on...pretty boring...probably why it's taken me so long to post on here!! :) </div><div>Hope you all are having a great summer!!</div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-80148768243105453382011-06-16T18:36:00.000-07:002011-06-16T18:46:17.243-07:00Oh my goodness....Is it really June 16th? And I haven't posted anything on here since then? My apologies!! I wish I had a really good reason...but I got nothing. Just life. Been busy with some newborn shoots...and chasing the girl around. It seems like I do the same thing every week...so it just keeps flying by faster and faster. <div><br /></div><div>Here's a few things we've been doing since I last wrote. Visiting family...renovated the back yard...so we now have grass...yes...grass in our little square of the world....and I guess that's about it. We're heading to visit family this weekend...and then we're taking a little trip with some friends next weekend. And then it's already the 4th of July...holy moly! And then Ellie & I are taking an almost 2 week vacay back home to see my family...and stay with Grammie C on her farm. Fingers crossed we'll get to see lots of farm animals...maybe a kitty or 2..and of course...hoping to see some of the best girlfriends a gal could ever have...my Love Hall lovelies :) And then by the time we get back...it's almost August! It's insane how quickly the summer fills up and it's not even technically "summer" yet. Whew...I'm tired just thinking about it :)</div><div><br /></div><div>What's Ellie up to these days? Well...she still talks all day long...only now the words are bigger and she asks more questions. Here's a snipet of one of our conversations today... Ellie- "I'm a puppy" Me- "Oh hi there puppy...you're such a good little doggie" Ellie- "I'm not a dog, I'm a puppy". LOL...she had me in stitches....what a funny kid :)</div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-87201959718854822612011-05-12T07:12:00.000-07:002011-05-13T13:35:22.996-07:00Disney...<div>We had a fabulous time!! Lots of great weather...came back tanned all of us..even with using sunscreen. Tired...need a another vacation from our vacation...but we have so many great memories!! Here's just a sampling...</div><div><br /></div><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhXhmYkwffSLOHo7ljUYVDqrCxmaBIiwWeIe_IJXipxrLWFgNiuQ9kwfskG3vGgOVocytMvw7FqcPdQNmbXYI4R_NYwfxkXwyPLlaMLsp8xpXVE33-NP-TnVoxwVrME_i22k7jXgTPtvk/s1600/Epcot.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhXhmYkwffSLOHo7ljUYVDqrCxmaBIiwWeIe_IJXipxrLWFgNiuQ9kwfskG3vGgOVocytMvw7FqcPdQNmbXYI4R_NYwfxkXwyPLlaMLsp8xpXVE33-NP-TnVoxwVrME_i22k7jXgTPtvk/s320/Epcot.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605832660077511698" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjng3EDeysib4jK0ULxblUiA0Sc9CaFo0sde-zxkpKSV7NFIYNHljIzxSYx2lzqPPN4k7MoeEpwzpmSl8xA-yyNaOSPDqNL-ruPc6f1lOwXCn8D6IvtXqInQ3XCwxQ6P8gHpjFb90y7LQs/s1600/EllieDisney3.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjng3EDeysib4jK0ULxblUiA0Sc9CaFo0sde-zxkpKSV7NFIYNHljIzxSYx2lzqPPN4k7MoeEpwzpmSl8xA-yyNaOSPDqNL-ruPc6f1lOwXCn8D6IvtXqInQ3XCwxQ6P8gHpjFb90y7LQs/s320/EllieDisney3.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605832599057048466" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYOFWev10I1ttDHMZJ4ZGFYh3q4DvMPe3HYRKvwmwF_wBC41jWwQRneqeQ1VClvzaqT7zI8tzMwTTVudUyvtzilSXrPaGJkSm5LjTF50W7kl6hyphenhyphenYVKr59ERuoSTS2j4L3LOVJy-UiDvIw/s1600/EllieDisney2.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYOFWev10I1ttDHMZJ4ZGFYh3q4DvMPe3HYRKvwmwF_wBC41jWwQRneqeQ1VClvzaqT7zI8tzMwTTVudUyvtzilSXrPaGJkSm5LjTF50W7kl6hyphenhyphenYVKr59ERuoSTS2j4L3LOVJy-UiDvIw/s320/EllieDisney2.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605832519682768594" /></a><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbJy2U1MLFwRt-yD_a_0ZDXgadDaqZjpk92qeXx-_josK_WjeMXo_FImtu4NhBl-Brf3olbZp-diWOefiO4a7od-5yXeuhPpMzR2pC93lGXlBsK2CEQuTtB11JZvamhzYBUjxx4aSmVw/s1600/EllieDisney1.jpg" onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 214px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgCbJy2U1MLFwRt-yD_a_0ZDXgadDaqZjpk92qeXx-_josK_WjeMXo_FImtu4NhBl-Brf3olbZp-diWOefiO4a7od-5yXeuhPpMzR2pC93lGXlBsK2CEQuTtB11JZvamhzYBUjxx4aSmVw/s320/EllieDisney1.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5605832367209543490" /></a>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-45803194486522920892011-04-27T17:13:00.000-07:002011-04-27T17:28:13.672-07:00Helping other moms...A few weeks ago I was thinking back to when Ellie was first born...and how overwhelming everything seemed. I was desperate for advice from anyone..and seriously needed to interact with other moms. It was around 3 months after she was born that I really started to feel like I was getting the hang of things. I finally decided to suck it up...and venture out to go to my local breastfeeding support group. I had been wanting to go...but I never felt comfortable going...and certainly didn't feel like I could nurse in public. I was going for specific advice about how women got comfortable nursing in public. I had a trip coming up...just Ellie & I..and I obviously was going to need to feed her on the plane. The women in the group were so incredibly supportive and they gave me a ton of advice. I learned that what I needed to do was start practicing in public. Sounds silly...but it worked. I got myself a nursing cover from Bebe au Lait...and it was awesome! I felt like I was covered completely and I felt like Ellie was suffocating under there. She got used to it...and I got used to relaxing while we were out. I finally felt liberated!! We didn't have to race back to the car every time I needed to feed her if we were out and about running errands. I could just pull out the cover, and slip it on..and boom...we were in business :) <div><br /></div><div>So now..2 years later...how am I giving back to other moms? I'm part of an Ambassador program with <a href="http://www.bebeaulait.com">Bebe au Lait</a>. Their product changed my life...and no doubt there are other soon to be moms out there who are looking for the same thing. I'm no expert on parenting...but I am an expert on what my experience was like. I think the best way to help someone is to share your story and what you struggled with and how you changed it for the better. So let me know if you have any questions about their products, or want more information :) </div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-36639126942047345852011-04-18T16:31:00.000-07:002011-04-18T16:38:56.365-07:00It's my b-day!And there's no need to cry about it! :) I have so much to be thankful for...two loving families...mine & M's..that love me & support me no matter what....the bestest husband I could EVER ask for...who knows me better than I know myself somedays...a daughter who makes me laugh like no one else can....a home to live in...my own small business that's starting to sprout....and friends that despite how long its been since we talked....can pick up right where we left off. Life is very good. I am so incredibly blessed. So here's to another fabulous year! Happy Birthday to me :)Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-61837901417639192802011-03-30T19:25:00.000-07:002011-03-30T19:31:47.708-07:00Whew...Well...she's a 30lber now! We had her 2 year check up last week...and she looks great. She's 34 1/2 inches tall...so we're creeping in on that 3 feet pretty quickly. She's already in 3T jeans...they're just a touch too long...but her 2T jeans are looking short already. The nurse practitioner was beyond impressed at her language abilities...as we were talking Ellie looked over and said, "oh...there's a sheep on the wall"...wow. that's a big sentence for a little girl! Anywhoo...nothing but good things to say about her and they told us to keep doing what we're doing...and to keep reading to her :) I think she'll go for that. Every night..."read stories?"...yup...we'll read that book I have memorized once again :) We love it and wouldn't change it for anything.<div><br /></div><div>Other news...getting some work done on my business front...so that's keeping me from blogging lately...and keeping me from posting my 365 pics on time. But I promise...I'll get better :) I have a maternity photo shoot next weekend that fingers crossed will go well outside in the elements. Freakish cold blast this week...so hopefully by next week we'll be good to go.</div><div><br /></div><div>Not too much else going on...we're dog sitting tonight cuz our good friends had their first baby tonight!! They had a boy...and we're so so happy for them!! Don't get me started on how cute and squishy that baby looked...makes my uterus hurt just thinking about it ;) LOL...ok...I'll end on that note!! :)</div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-48356791389153227412011-03-17T18:35:00.000-07:002011-03-17T18:41:18.876-07:00Happy 2nd Birthday Ellie!She's 2 years old. I can't believe it. Where did it go? Amazing to think back to the day she was born. We were a hot mess. And M didn't know if Eleanor & I were going to be ok. He was left standing by himself in the recovery room while I was whisked off for an emergency c-section. That was the most terrifying moment of my life. But look at us now. 2 years later...and we have a 2 year old. She's so smart...and comes up with the funniest stuff every day. I see myself in her more and more...even though everyone still says she looks just like M. I think she has some of my personalities...and it's funny to see them in a little person. She gets frustrated...but she's learning to take a deep breath...and try again. :) <div><br /></div><div>Oh my Elliecakes...I love you SO much...and am so blessed to have you in my life. Happy 2nd Birthday angel girl!!<div><br /></div><div>Love Mommy.</div></div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-50188459907270920862011-03-15T13:14:00.000-07:002011-03-15T13:17:43.724-07:00YIkes!<div>It's almost been a month since I last posted over here!! I knew that would happen...I'd get all busy with my 365 blog...and forget about posting here too. Well...I'm back :)<div><br /></div><div>We had a great 2nd birthday party this past weekend. It was all about Minnie Mouse. Here's a few pictures from the day...</div></div><div><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO1kQ20mX787YQ3aPK1Ugc5zxB3njMsJSCrmk1opqKeqzdMT3SexLbtee7brH7HY_Q0BvUG_xd2kjd3PzMG4j0iW09tY3c4YkkTxWLumRrYA7rMct064p9YslXq_k5H-G01kb_NoeCB0Q/s1600/EllieMinnieDress.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 234px; height: 320px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO1kQ20mX787YQ3aPK1Ugc5zxB3njMsJSCrmk1opqKeqzdMT3SexLbtee7brH7HY_Q0BvUG_xd2kjd3PzMG4j0iW09tY3c4YkkTxWLumRrYA7rMct064p9YslXq_k5H-G01kb_NoeCB0Q/s320/EllieMinnieDress.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584403235965476226" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSvALO6yw2gHL-obYFMvj8xTv_EAyakg8ygWfdT8Egrd77rNdlmPtoyeNdDCNakolKqAXZ_4YcpB-nUyGLh8TNWk7RAczTGpgP4tciYkky_1TpwNHPtzGRx9ftgemxyGW21fkeMIcl7Hg/s1600/EllieMinnieCupcakes.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiSvALO6yw2gHL-obYFMvj8xTv_EAyakg8ygWfdT8Egrd77rNdlmPtoyeNdDCNakolKqAXZ_4YcpB-nUyGLh8TNWk7RAczTGpgP4tciYkky_1TpwNHPtzGRx9ftgemxyGW21fkeMIcl7Hg/s320/EllieMinnieCupcakes.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584403224452482162" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeMN_fL_lRVZYsgxoGpqeMaB_vUfzbEn5rZ8kvl34Tu5_9d-S_hOL2hxxOWKDSZLH30V_iwfQsh2NMQMjg9EbR7DzHTl37123HJJ7e6x3sETLaWR2V36NIwuVAbMEBdlLN9xzoBKvCJ1E/s1600/EllieCake.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 214px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgeMN_fL_lRVZYsgxoGpqeMaB_vUfzbEn5rZ8kvl34Tu5_9d-S_hOL2hxxOWKDSZLH30V_iwfQsh2NMQMjg9EbR7DzHTl37123HJJ7e6x3sETLaWR2V36NIwuVAbMEBdlLN9xzoBKvCJ1E/s320/EllieCake.jpg" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584403222392496338" /></a>We had a great time with family and got lots of great new toys to destroy the house with :)<br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-16280441015181128962011-02-17T17:10:00.000-08:002011-02-17T17:16:59.933-08:0023 months old....How in the world did I get a 23 month old? Can I even say that? When people ask how old she is...I just say she'll be 2 next month. Much easier than still counting in months. We could go by weeks...she's 101 weeks..LOL...I only know that because I still get emails from some company that tells me how many weeks old she is. Weird!<div><br /></div><div>Anywhoo...we're busy planning for our Disney trip...and if you've been following the 365 blog...you'll see the finished bathroom project. I have been totally consumed by that...and have had minimal computer time...so that's my excuse for where I've been. It's now officially finished...and we're enjoying it!</div><div><br /></div><div>Her vocabulary is growing each day. Today we went to a birthday party for a lil' guy that's exactly one month older than her...and on our way there...we stopped for a gift bag and tissue paper. She was in the backseat talking away about the gift we got him..bubbies (bubbles)..and how we had a card and she said we got a bag. I told her we got tissue paper too...and she starts repeating that...and then the whole way there...it's all about the tissue paper :) Too funny!! Guess now is the time that I need to watch what I say more than ever!!</div><div><br /></div><div>Ok...so my baby is 23 months...and she's growing like a weed. She's wearing 3T clothes already...and her 2T jeans are starting to get a little short. Seriously...anyone have an potions that stop small children from growing?? If so...send me some ASAP :)</div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-36709499682300582822011-02-08T16:50:00.000-08:002011-02-08T16:59:01.497-08:00Future dancer...Gotta share this recent video we got of her. We were over at our friend's house for the SuperBowl...and this child was running on pure adrenaline :)<div><br /></div><div><br /></div><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dyqNVf-luSPEFYjVAc93zfwiYcC3pLRx_rDSDG8BLZYZrlr7JDToHFGE9-yHFkxbNqPK4W9MjDJCLA7U9KcNg' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-18533498354982789492011-01-31T17:46:00.000-08:002011-01-31T17:51:52.921-08:00I wanna hold your hand....This is her new thing this week. Anyone who has a toddler...or had one in say the past 5 years...knows all about Laurie Berkner. She's awesome. She's like the Toddler Whisperer. Eleanor hears her singing and life stands still until the song is over. It's amazing. We have one of her albums...and listen to it all the time in the car. But recently we heard another one of her songs, called "My Family"...and the girl goes NUTS. She likes to dance around and asks to hold our hands since we're "family." It melts my heart everytime she does it. She knows some of the words to it too. It's the cutest thing ever. I know..I say that about EVERYTHING...but it really is too cute :)Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-74820093637077784182011-01-24T11:33:00.000-08:002011-01-24T11:47:08.850-08:00What to do...what to do...The time has come. She's growing up too quickly. Last week she tried twice to crawl out of her bed. Not in a "oh my gosh... scary...like almost falling out?" way...but she threw her leg up over the edge of the crib and said "out...out." We'll be shopping for another option soon. Mulling over our choices...buy the conversion kit for our crib....buy a toddler bed....or buy a big ol' twin bed. Choices choices. With our bathroom renovation...and Disney trip...the budget is looking a little low for purchasing the twin bed and everything that has to go with it. The conversion kit...and toddler bed are looking like great choices. But the decision making has ended there. Yes...we plan on having other children...so Eleanor would need to be moved into another bed eventually...so why not just get a toddler bed and be done with it. Well...there's the space issue...as in, we.have.none in this house. Her room is already her room and the guest room. Can we really squeeze in another piece of furniture in there? Why don't we just take down the crib? Well...good question...but again...where in the world are we gonna store that sucker? Plus we hope to be using it again at some point...so why hassle with taking it apart. Ughh....this shouldn't be this difficult really. Ok...time to make a decision. It's go time. Ok....here's the decision.....toddler bed it is. It seems like the most logical of choices. Right? Right.<div>Good...decision made.</div><div><br /></div><div>I think.......</div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-15731355926126341642011-01-19T17:51:00.000-08:002011-01-19T18:00:24.884-08:0022 months oldI'm a few days late. I know. Oh well. Happy 22nd month Birthday Ellie!!<div>Busy planning for her party...definitely switched to a Minnie Mouse theme. I've been working away on her invitations...and going to be sewing her something special to wear the day of her party :) We already have her birthday present...that sucker has been taking up space in our room since before Christmas...so it'll be nice to be able to get into my closet without having to climb Mt. Everest :) We're gonna keep it low key this year. Last year felt like we needed to do things up big since it was her first birthday. This year...just relaxing day with family :)</div><div><br /></div><div>In other news....we have accepted an offer to renovate our only full bathroom! Whooohoo!! I can't wait to get this done. We've been saying it for years now...well...ok...not THAT many years...we've only known each other for going on 6 years...haha..so anyway....we hope to get that project underway soon. I'll be sure to take before and after...although I'm not sure I want my hideous bathroom being viewed by all of the internet...but ok...I'll do anything for my fans :) LOL We're not doing anything too expensive or over the top...but a full gut..new tub...new tile...new fixtures...new vanity...new paint even. Have I said that I can't wait for this to be done?</div><div>Only problem is that it will probably take about 2 weeks. No...don't worry...those of you who read this and are around us in real life don't have to worry about us not bathing for 2 weeks. We have our local gym..which I go to everyday anyway...so might as well shower there :) As for Eleanor...we still use the little tub we've had in her since she was born...so we can set that up downstairs...or heck...she might still fit in the kitchen sink. I will most DEFINITELY get pictures of that ;)</div><div><br /></div><div>Ok...enough of my dribble for the night!! </div><div>My baby is 22 months old...and getting bigger and more mature everyday. I love you Ellie!!</div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-12045640768668274862011-01-12T13:09:00.000-08:002011-01-12T13:13:37.801-08:00We're going to Disney...again :)I know...some of you already heard on my other blog...but I had to post it here too of course :)<div>We can't wait to go!! I've already been through my drawers...planning what to wear/take. I hit Gymboree today and used my Gymbucks to purchase some cute spring stuff for E. I also hit their sister store Crazy 8 and scored some good deals. I think she's set now :)</div><div><br /></div><div>We got some snow last night...but not enough to cause any real problems so that's good. Starting my thought process on what to do for her second birthday party. I know I said Dora all the way before...but now she's so into Minnie Mouse...even more than she already was...so I'm torn. I'll have to sit down and think about which invitations would be easier to make...and which cake would take the less effort :) I'll be making the cake...gotta go with the family tradition right Mom?? My mom is super talented..and always made our birthday cakes...and my sister was blessed with the same talent. We'll see if I have it in me :)</div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6614102998616583246.post-65262211853716551392011-01-07T11:42:00.001-08:002011-01-07T11:46:15.563-08:00We got a little potty!Just purchased it today. She's sat on it twice now...with no results. But it's a start right? She's very interested in it..and says "pee pee" when she sits on it. I've let her sit on the big potty a few times..but she usually just wants down right away. So we..well...I figured we should just get one and start practicing right now. No sense in waiting :) Can't hurt to introduce it to her now...and get her comfortable with it. I know this will be a long process...and I'm probably punishing myself for starting it before she's even 2...but what I can say. I'm a glutton for punishment :)<div><br /></div><div>Happy Friday! If you haven't checked it out yet...my <a href="http://parsons365.blogspot.com">365 blog</a> will be featuring Ellie's Friday Fashions on a weekly basis. A close up look into her closet :) LOL</div>Jhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10392495275934871506noreply@blogger.com0