Well, today is my last day as a "twenty-something" and you know what that means- Tomorrow is the day! The day I officially turn 30! My husband and I spent my last weekend in my 20's in San Francisco, kid free. We had a blast! Now I am home and going to ring in the day in my most favorite way, day off work, spending it with my family. Nice, casual dinner and of course birthday dessert!
My twenties have been amazing! 10 years ago if I were to say where I wanted to be when I was 30, I would have said right here! I have 2 beautiful, healthy, absolutely amazing children- very lucky to have both a boy and a girl. I have a really great job, my career has had ups and downs over the past 5 years, it took off really quick, then I took a step back to move close to home and have babies. I recently received a promotion and am working my way back up the corporate ladder at a company that is close to home and a great place to work. We have a beautiful home, my mom is nanny to my kids, I am healthy and I have a super great husband! Life is great!
My 20's weren't always exactly as I would have thought. I never imagined to be getting my colon removed- yep, total colectomy. I also never imagined to be a healthy 26 year old shooting myelf up with estrogen and progesterone and having to visit a fertility doctor to have babies. I also never imagined I would be excited to be buying a mini van. But....I gotta say, with all the ups and downs, this has been the best decade of my life. Met and married my husband, had my 2 fabulous kids and completed my family! My twenties were amazing and I am sad to see them go, but very much looking forward to everything my 30's have in store for me.
I want to rock my 30's! I want to start right away, to step up my fitness, set some slightly healthier habits for my kids, travel, have fun, make memories, work hard in my career while being a great mommy and give back to my community! I don't know that anything can live up to the milestones of my 20's, however, I think my 30's will most definitely be super, duper amazing! I can't wait!! Let's do this!!
Wednesday, November 12, 2014
Monday, September 29, 2014
Fall Favorites!
Fall is officially here and I couldn't be happier. Summer is filled with fun, but Fall is too and the weather is the greatest. Here are the things I love most about Fall, what about you?
1. Cooler Weather
2. Apple Picking- which means HUGE apple fritter with vanilla ice cream...YUM!
3. The Fair
4. Birthday's (Gianna's and mine)
5. Pumpkin Patch
6. Pumpkin Donuts
7. Boots
8. Holidays and starting my Christmas shopping!
9. Baking- I love to start baking yummy treats!
10. Long, refreshing runs!
There are a few things that come along with Fall that I am not a fan of- kids sick season, but with the good comes the bad, so I am doing my best to keep my family healthy and hope we all make it through with minimal sniffles and aches.
Happy Fall Ya'll!
1. Cooler Weather
2. Apple Picking- which means HUGE apple fritter with vanilla ice cream...YUM!
3. The Fair
4. Birthday's (Gianna's and mine)
5. Pumpkin Patch
6. Pumpkin Donuts
7. Boots
8. Holidays and starting my Christmas shopping!
9. Baking- I love to start baking yummy treats!
10. Long, refreshing runs!
There are a few things that come along with Fall that I am not a fan of- kids sick season, but with the good comes the bad, so I am doing my best to keep my family healthy and hope we all make it through with minimal sniffles and aches.
Happy Fall Ya'll!
Sunday, August 24, 2014
Encouraging Imaginative Play with Fruit Shoot
This post is sponsored by Fruit Shoot, but all opinions are my own. Thanks Fruit Shoot for sponsoring such a fun campaign!
We are a pretty active family and want to be sure to keep our kids active and healthy. We love to get outside and although they are still very young, we are already getting them involved in team sports and being active. We also like to keep them semi healthy, I say semi, because we are definitely a family that loves our french fries and ice cream, but all in balance. Our oldest is almost 3 and is a very picky eater, however, beverages are something we have kept pretty healthy and we are proud of that. She drinks mostly water and milk and until she was 2, never even tried a "juice box". She does enjoy a glass of orange juice and occassionally has juice at a party or special event.
When I learned about Fruit Shoot, I thought, "wow, this is great!". It comes in fun colors and yummy flavors, but the liquid is clear, no fructose corn syrup ... and a spill-proof cap- Score! It is the perfect size and a great treat to take on the go. Perfect for those Saturday games, outdoor adventures in your back yard or at the park, or for those long car rides. I love that the company is focusing on fun and adventure with your kids.
Fruit Shoot comes in 4 flavors including Orange, Apple, Berry Burst and Strawberry/Raspberry and is also available in low sugar versions.
3. Every week, we’ll chose a winning video, give it the full-on Hollywood special effects treatment, and release it on our contest homepage for the world to see!
So what are you waiting for go buy some Fruit Shoot and have some fun with your family by creating a video and entering the contest. Promotion ends September 1, 2014.
We are a pretty active family and want to be sure to keep our kids active and healthy. We love to get outside and although they are still very young, we are already getting them involved in team sports and being active. We also like to keep them semi healthy, I say semi, because we are definitely a family that loves our french fries and ice cream, but all in balance. Our oldest is almost 3 and is a very picky eater, however, beverages are something we have kept pretty healthy and we are proud of that. She drinks mostly water and milk and until she was 2, never even tried a "juice box". She does enjoy a glass of orange juice and occassionally has juice at a party or special event.
When I learned about Fruit Shoot, I thought, "wow, this is great!". It comes in fun colors and yummy flavors, but the liquid is clear, no fructose corn syrup ... and a spill-proof cap- Score! It is the perfect size and a great treat to take on the go. Perfect for those Saturday games, outdoor adventures in your back yard or at the park, or for those long car rides. I love that the company is focusing on fun and adventure with your kids.
Fruit Shoot comes in 4 flavors including Orange, Apple, Berry Burst and Strawberry/Raspberry and is also available in low sugar versions.
You are invited to capture and share the exciting imagination of your child by filming a short video of your child’s tricks and stunts with a Fruit Shoot bottle and a ball of your choice. The winning video each week will get a treatment in a similar style to the video featured on the campaign landing page! Entrants will receive a free bottle of Fruit Shoot when entering the contest. AND, if you buy 6 bottles of Fruit Shoot in-store, you will also receive a Waboba ball! Check out my video here:
Here are some ideas for you to create your video:
The ‘Have a Ball Stunt Hunt’ competition is a great demonstration of Fruit Shoot’s commitment to imaginative play and has a reward that is priceless. Here’s how it works:Theme #1 Imaginative Activity IdeasTheme #2 Movie StarTheme #3 Imaginative play
1. Visit the contest homepage to upload a video of your kids showing off their best tricks, stunts, and super-cool abilities with a Fruit Shoot bottle and any ball. To qualify, please make sure your video is under 30 seconds.
2. Share your video with friends and family and encourage them to vote for your video3. Every week, we’ll chose a winning video, give it the full-on Hollywood special effects treatment, and release it on our contest homepage for the world to see!
So what are you waiting for go buy some Fruit Shoot and have some fun with your family by creating a video and entering the contest. Promotion ends September 1, 2014.
Wednesday, July 2, 2014
We Kicked Some Potty Training A$$
We did it! We did it! We did it Yeah! Who would think that potty training would be so easy?!
I have thought about tackling potty training for a while now, but I knew I needed to take a day off work and stay with Gianna. Why? Because when you have a little one crawling around trying to stick his hand in the potty or climb into it, it makes your 2 yr old very upset. So a good day came and I decided let's do it. I had bought a bunch of little toys, wrapped them up and put them in a box from the "Pee Pee Fairy". I also bought a Dora Sticker Chart, Panties and mini M&Ms.
We woke up that morning, picked out our panties and started just sitting and sitting. Then, she said, "mommy I have to pee pee", rushed to the potty and sat down, but didn't get her panties down in time. Ok, no biggie, clean panties and try try again. More sitting in front of the TV on the potty- yes in the living room. This time, right after we sit, we run upstairs for literally 5 minutes, she says,"Mommy I have to pee pee" and I pick her up to race her to the potty, pees on me! No problem, new panties and try again, by the 3rd time, we were nailing this potty thing. Nap time came, diaper, woke up, panties and more sitting. Left the house for 1 hour to eat. Sat on potty at restaurant, but nothing.
Day 1 was not too shabby.
Day 2 started with more sitting, more and more, but no pee. Getting concerened. Finally 5 hours after waking up she pees!! Yeah. The rest of the day goes pretty smoothly. A pee pee in the potty (not on mommy) equals 2 mini M&Ms, a present and a sticker and duh- it wouldn't be complete without the pee pee dance! Day 2 she even wanted to nap in her panties, you go girl!
Day 3 was great, even went to breakfast, park and the grocery store with NO accidents! Napped in panties again and even pooped! We ran out of presents but continued with stickers, M&Ms and the pee pee dance. At this point, the Fairy had moved the potty to the bathroom because "Gianna was OFFICIALLY a big girl who pee pees on the potty!"
So far, we have been rocking and rolling and kicking that A$$! 2 weeks of dry diapers and we will attempt overnight. Daniel Tiger says it best, "When you have to go potty, stop, and go right away. (Wipe) Flush and Wash and be on your way."
Feels good!
I have thought about tackling potty training for a while now, but I knew I needed to take a day off work and stay with Gianna. Why? Because when you have a little one crawling around trying to stick his hand in the potty or climb into it, it makes your 2 yr old very upset. So a good day came and I decided let's do it. I had bought a bunch of little toys, wrapped them up and put them in a box from the "Pee Pee Fairy". I also bought a Dora Sticker Chart, Panties and mini M&Ms.
We woke up that morning, picked out our panties and started just sitting and sitting. Then, she said, "mommy I have to pee pee", rushed to the potty and sat down, but didn't get her panties down in time. Ok, no biggie, clean panties and try try again. More sitting in front of the TV on the potty- yes in the living room. This time, right after we sit, we run upstairs for literally 5 minutes, she says,"Mommy I have to pee pee" and I pick her up to race her to the potty, pees on me! No problem, new panties and try again, by the 3rd time, we were nailing this potty thing. Nap time came, diaper, woke up, panties and more sitting. Left the house for 1 hour to eat. Sat on potty at restaurant, but nothing.
Day 1 was not too shabby.
Day 2 started with more sitting, more and more, but no pee. Getting concerened. Finally 5 hours after waking up she pees!! Yeah. The rest of the day goes pretty smoothly. A pee pee in the potty (not on mommy) equals 2 mini M&Ms, a present and a sticker and duh- it wouldn't be complete without the pee pee dance! Day 2 she even wanted to nap in her panties, you go girl!
Day 3 was great, even went to breakfast, park and the grocery store with NO accidents! Napped in panties again and even pooped! We ran out of presents but continued with stickers, M&Ms and the pee pee dance. At this point, the Fairy had moved the potty to the bathroom because "Gianna was OFFICIALLY a big girl who pee pees on the potty!"
So far, we have been rocking and rolling and kicking that A$$! 2 weeks of dry diapers and we will attempt overnight. Daniel Tiger says it best, "When you have to go potty, stop, and go right away. (Wipe) Flush and Wash and be on your way."
Feels good!
Tuesday, June 24, 2014
1st Birthday Luau!
My baby boy is officially 1 year old! Time Flies! We had his first birthday party Luau this weekend, complete with a Kona Ice Truck that I forgot to take pictures of. It was a blast! On the menu:
Chicken Salad Crabwiches
PB&J Starfish Sandwiches
Pigs in a Blanket
Let's go for a Dip Station
Tropical Fruit Salad
Goldfish
Seashell Pasta Salad
Kona Ice Truck Icees
Cupcakes
Kids goody bags contained:
Sunglasses
Hawaiin Rubber Duckies
2 Tropical Ice Pops to enjoy later
My baby boy is such an amazing blessing and it was so nice getting to celebrate him!
Monday, May 19, 2014
6 months till the dirty thirty!
Turning 30. Yep, it is almost that time. I have about 6 months until I say hello to my thirties. A year ago I would have said it wouldn't affect me at all, today I am not sure.
I am exactly where I want to be, great husband, 2 beautiful and health kids, a great job and I am healthy. What more could I ask for? Well, I don't know. I want to push myself a little more on my fitness for sure over these next months and continue into my thirties and beyond. I also want to focus on my future financially as a family. Continue saving, move into a new home, travel, etc. Same goals just at the next level.
I hope I handle this birthday with grace and confidence, because overall I am looking forward to my thirties and think they will be some of the best, most beautiful memories of my lifetime.
6 month countdown to dirty 30 begins!
I am exactly where I want to be, great husband, 2 beautiful and health kids, a great job and I am healthy. What more could I ask for? Well, I don't know. I want to push myself a little more on my fitness for sure over these next months and continue into my thirties and beyond. I also want to focus on my future financially as a family. Continue saving, move into a new home, travel, etc. Same goals just at the next level.
I hope I handle this birthday with grace and confidence, because overall I am looking forward to my thirties and think they will be some of the best, most beautiful memories of my lifetime.
6 month countdown to dirty 30 begins!
Friday, May 2, 2014
Five on Friday
{one}
Potty Training. DO NOT attempt to do this with a toddler by yourself while a baby is cruising around. We are taking a break and after vacations will take a few days off work to take Miles away from Gianna and knock this out. Ready to get rid of half the diapers in my house- For sure!!
{two}
Vacations. Ahhh. I need one. Have 2 right around the corner. Counting down!
{three}
Ear Infections= YUCK! Gianna got her first one. High fever, yucky feeling, tired baby. She has had 4 shots in the past 2 days and is currently at the Dr. with dad for another 2. Poor thing, if only she would take medicine. She swears, "milk makes her feel better".
{four}
We have officially decided we are putting our house on the market in September. Exciting. Scary. Lots to do. It isn't peak selling season, but after we can put swings, bottles, jumpers away and at least make the house look semi less day care ish we are going to see what happens, if nothing by end of November we will take it off and try again at the end of January which is better timing. Fingers crossed it sells quick. Still a ways away, but it is exciting none the less.
{five}
Run. I need a long one. It has been a few weeks of me feeling like crap from what I blame allergies for and this weekend I need to push myself so I can get a long run in.
Cheers to the weekend ya'll!
Potty Training. DO NOT attempt to do this with a toddler by yourself while a baby is cruising around. We are taking a break and after vacations will take a few days off work to take Miles away from Gianna and knock this out. Ready to get rid of half the diapers in my house- For sure!!
{two}
Vacations. Ahhh. I need one. Have 2 right around the corner. Counting down!
{three}
Ear Infections= YUCK! Gianna got her first one. High fever, yucky feeling, tired baby. She has had 4 shots in the past 2 days and is currently at the Dr. with dad for another 2. Poor thing, if only she would take medicine. She swears, "milk makes her feel better".
{four}
We have officially decided we are putting our house on the market in September. Exciting. Scary. Lots to do. It isn't peak selling season, but after we can put swings, bottles, jumpers away and at least make the house look semi less day care ish we are going to see what happens, if nothing by end of November we will take it off and try again at the end of January which is better timing. Fingers crossed it sells quick. Still a ways away, but it is exciting none the less.
{five}
Run. I need a long one. It has been a few weeks of me feeling like crap from what I blame allergies for and this weekend I need to push myself so I can get a long run in.
Cheers to the weekend ya'll!
Thursday, April 24, 2014
Thankful Thursday!
Man, I am so beyond blessed. More and more I feel so thankful for all my beautiful blessings, and today I want to focus on the little every day blessings that I so often take for granted. These are blessings I worked hard for, but still blessings...
Gas Prices- they are soaring, but do I feel the impact, no, because to be honest, I don't even pay attention. I mean yes the more I spend the less I am able to save, but I am so blessed to not have to pinch these pennies or have the stress of increased gas prices be something that weighs me down.
My short commute- I used to work 30+ miles from home (before kids) and was it the worst thing in the world, no, of course not, but I couldn't imagine doing that now. Time is already so limited.
My Treadmill- Yes it sounds silly, but I have had it for 8 years and it is such a blessing. On days when I am not able to make it to the gym it is so nice to be able to hop on and knock out a mile. No excuses!
Having a great Children's Hospital close by. My son has plagiocephaly and his trips to Children's of Atlanta are frequent, I see moms in my facebook group driving 3+ hours each way every other week for their appointments and mine is 5 miles away and top knotch! A blessing indeed.
These are just a few of the little things I am feeling beyond grateful for today.
Gas Prices- they are soaring, but do I feel the impact, no, because to be honest, I don't even pay attention. I mean yes the more I spend the less I am able to save, but I am so blessed to not have to pinch these pennies or have the stress of increased gas prices be something that weighs me down.
My short commute- I used to work 30+ miles from home (before kids) and was it the worst thing in the world, no, of course not, but I couldn't imagine doing that now. Time is already so limited.
My Treadmill- Yes it sounds silly, but I have had it for 8 years and it is such a blessing. On days when I am not able to make it to the gym it is so nice to be able to hop on and knock out a mile. No excuses!
Having a great Children's Hospital close by. My son has plagiocephaly and his trips to Children's of Atlanta are frequent, I see moms in my facebook group driving 3+ hours each way every other week for their appointments and mine is 5 miles away and top knotch! A blessing indeed.
These are just a few of the little things I am feeling beyond grateful for today.
Friday, April 11, 2014
Five on Friday!
{one}
Yesterday was my 4 year wedding anniversary. My thoughtful husband got me this beautiful canvas with our special dates on it. Love! Tonight we are having a date night.
{two}
My little girl singing the complete words to twinkle twinkle little star= The.CUTEST.Thing.EVER!!
{three}
My boy army crawling everywhere and all he wants to do is stand up. Such a big, brave boy and I am one proud momma of all his progression these past couple of weeks.
{four}
Weekend fun. We have 2 easter egg hunts and a birthday party all to squeeze into this beautiful weekend.
{five}
Life. Work. It's been rough, I have been missing my new gym routine and my family time. I am hoping it somewhat settles down soon and I can get back into a routine with the occassional hiccups. I am grateful for my career progression, I am just a creature of routine, I like schedules, plans, and normalcy.
Cheers ya'll to the weekend!
Yesterday was my 4 year wedding anniversary. My thoughtful husband got me this beautiful canvas with our special dates on it. Love! Tonight we are having a date night.
{two}
My little girl singing the complete words to twinkle twinkle little star= The.CUTEST.Thing.EVER!!
{three}
My boy army crawling everywhere and all he wants to do is stand up. Such a big, brave boy and I am one proud momma of all his progression these past couple of weeks.
{four}
Weekend fun. We have 2 easter egg hunts and a birthday party all to squeeze into this beautiful weekend.
{five}
Life. Work. It's been rough, I have been missing my new gym routine and my family time. I am hoping it somewhat settles down soon and I can get back into a routine with the occassional hiccups. I am grateful for my career progression, I am just a creature of routine, I like schedules, plans, and normalcy.
Cheers ya'll to the weekend!
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Workout Wednesday! Legs
Leg day is one of my favorite days. Here is my weekly leg workout- quick and effective.
Start with 1 mile run.
Then the following 3 power sets of 12- grouped items are alternated.
- Squats with kettle ball
Jump sqats
- Stiff leg deadlift
lunges- do up and down an aisle or alternating
- Leg curls
- Leg extenstion
- Leg Press
- Calf raises (same machine as leg press)
- Front squat
That's it! It is a great workout and I promise your legs will burn!
Start with 1 mile run.
Then the following 3 power sets of 12- grouped items are alternated.
- Squats with kettle ball
Jump sqats
- Stiff leg deadlift
lunges- do up and down an aisle or alternating
- Leg curls
- Leg extenstion
- Leg Press
- Calf raises (same machine as leg press)
- Front squat
That's it! It is a great workout and I promise your legs will burn!
Friday, March 21, 2014
Five on Friday!
{one}
So thankful for Friday, for some time with my family, for a nice long run this weekend, for a breathe!
{two}
Sleep. What does it feel like to sleep through the night? I couldn't tell you right now. I am mentally exhausted by the time I get home from work and the physical part of not getting a good night's sleep is killing me. I am reading it is normal for a hard sleep pattern to hit between 8-10 months and I am praying that is all this is and it will pass, but it has been rough. Please Miles baby boy, just sleep!
{three}
Miles had his 9 month check up, the timing sucked because he had just had the stomach bug for about 2 weeks and lost all of the weight we were trying to pack on him, so once again my little guy was in the 2nd percentile on weight. Small, but mighty!!
{four}
Shopping. I need to do some retail therapy. Want some nice jeans and cute spring tops.
{five}
Running and spring. Hate the pollen, love the temperature. Looking forward to an awesome outdoor run this weekend and getting back into it, pushing myself! Speaking of, this week we signed up for our annual Peachtree Road Race!
Cheers Ya'll!
So thankful for Friday, for some time with my family, for a nice long run this weekend, for a breathe!
{two}
Sleep. What does it feel like to sleep through the night? I couldn't tell you right now. I am mentally exhausted by the time I get home from work and the physical part of not getting a good night's sleep is killing me. I am reading it is normal for a hard sleep pattern to hit between 8-10 months and I am praying that is all this is and it will pass, but it has been rough. Please Miles baby boy, just sleep!
{three}
Miles had his 9 month check up, the timing sucked because he had just had the stomach bug for about 2 weeks and lost all of the weight we were trying to pack on him, so once again my little guy was in the 2nd percentile on weight. Small, but mighty!!
{four}
Shopping. I need to do some retail therapy. Want some nice jeans and cute spring tops.
{five}
Running and spring. Hate the pollen, love the temperature. Looking forward to an awesome outdoor run this weekend and getting back into it, pushing myself! Speaking of, this week we signed up for our annual Peachtree Road Race!
Cheers Ya'll!
Wednesday, March 12, 2014
Weekly Randoms
1. Sorry I have been MIA, work has been kicking my a$$, I mean seriously. I barely have time to pee between meetings.
2. Juan Pablo= worst. bachelor. ever. I mean really?!!! but..."it's ooook" bahahaha
3. Spring- I love it, but I hate it. Pollen has already started, yuck.
4. Vacation, man I am looking forward to one.
5. The Nora Virus/Stomach bug- OMG leave our family alone, it has been kicking Miles but for over a week now and we have been spreading it...on accident. Sorry Grandpa and Aunt Alanna- Miles loves you!!
6. Friday..is it here yet?
7. More babies- it is in the air, lots of preggers friends right now.
8. A haircut? I need one.
9. The gym? Oh how I miss you. I am trying to squeeze in little sessions at home after the kids go to sleep, but I am looking forward to the ashes settling at work and getting back into a rhythm- oh man am I looking forward to this. I am a creature of a routine and balance.
10. Joy! My kids bring me so much. I have been a little stressed the past couple weeks with all of these changes and coming home to them (even though it is a lot later than I would like) is the GREATEST. Oh and my husband= AWESOME!! Been cooking dinner and helping me so much! Love my little family to the moon and back.
2. Juan Pablo= worst. bachelor. ever. I mean really?!!! but..."it's ooook" bahahaha
3. Spring- I love it, but I hate it. Pollen has already started, yuck.
4. Vacation, man I am looking forward to one.
5. The Nora Virus/Stomach bug- OMG leave our family alone, it has been kicking Miles but for over a week now and we have been spreading it...on accident. Sorry Grandpa and Aunt Alanna- Miles loves you!!
6. Friday..is it here yet?
7. More babies- it is in the air, lots of preggers friends right now.
8. A haircut? I need one.
9. The gym? Oh how I miss you. I am trying to squeeze in little sessions at home after the kids go to sleep, but I am looking forward to the ashes settling at work and getting back into a rhythm- oh man am I looking forward to this. I am a creature of a routine and balance.
10. Joy! My kids bring me so much. I have been a little stressed the past couple weeks with all of these changes and coming home to them (even though it is a lot later than I would like) is the GREATEST. Oh and my husband= AWESOME!! Been cooking dinner and helping me so much! Love my little family to the moon and back.
Monday, March 3, 2014
Cha-Cha-Changes
Life has been the usual craziness times 100. I just recently received a promotion at work- woohooo!! I am super excited about it, it is a great career move for me and I am stoked. I am also nervous, stressed and trying to stop doubting myself. The transition period is starting and it is going to be rough. I am trying my best to manage it all, but it is already stressing me out. Hopefully within the next week they will at least back fill my old position (and 1 of my current 2, lol) so that I will at least see the end in sight. It will be nice to transition that and jump into my new role so I can give it my all. Until then, it is going to be rough....
The past 3 years have been all about having babies for me. Shots, doctor appointments, newborns, etc. This year I turn 30 and one of my goals was to put a little focus back on my career. Being a wife and a mommy will always be my #1 job, but for me my career is also a priority. I have worked hard to get where I am, college, working during school, MBA, student loans, etc. I wish I would have worked harder, but that is not something I can change, what I can do is manage my career goals today. 5 years ago I wanted to be a power house in the corporate world. Today, I want to still climb the ladder, but maybe not quite as high or fast as before. I want to balance my family life, be at soccer games, dance recitals and have a successful career. I want to show my children you can have both if that is what you want.
It feels good. It feels good to reach this goal at such a young age. While it is little in comparison to some's success, to most it is big, and that feels good. It feels good to be an example for my children, especially my daughter as a little girl who will grow into a woman who will still face challenges competing with men. It feels good to know that I have both a successful career and a healthy, happy family life. That I am a good mommy and doing a good job in the office. The corporate world is a shark tank, it is competitive and you have to pony up and get in there if you want to move up.
Have you ever read the book Who moved my cheese? I read it about 3 years ago, as an adult, and gained a lot of perspective. I am resistant to change, it makes me nervous, it makes me doubt myself, but I know deep down, change is good. Scary? Yes, but exciting too. I challenge you, don't be afraid of change, embrace it! I am going to try!
Here are some insightful quotes from the book:
“Life moves on and so should we”
“When you stop being afraid you feel good”
“See what you're doing wrong, laugh at it, change and do better.”
“Movement in new direction helps find new cheese.”
“Smell the cheese often so you know when it is getting old.”
The past 3 years have been all about having babies for me. Shots, doctor appointments, newborns, etc. This year I turn 30 and one of my goals was to put a little focus back on my career. Being a wife and a mommy will always be my #1 job, but for me my career is also a priority. I have worked hard to get where I am, college, working during school, MBA, student loans, etc. I wish I would have worked harder, but that is not something I can change, what I can do is manage my career goals today. 5 years ago I wanted to be a power house in the corporate world. Today, I want to still climb the ladder, but maybe not quite as high or fast as before. I want to balance my family life, be at soccer games, dance recitals and have a successful career. I want to show my children you can have both if that is what you want.
It feels good. It feels good to reach this goal at such a young age. While it is little in comparison to some's success, to most it is big, and that feels good. It feels good to be an example for my children, especially my daughter as a little girl who will grow into a woman who will still face challenges competing with men. It feels good to know that I have both a successful career and a healthy, happy family life. That I am a good mommy and doing a good job in the office. The corporate world is a shark tank, it is competitive and you have to pony up and get in there if you want to move up.
Have you ever read the book Who moved my cheese? I read it about 3 years ago, as an adult, and gained a lot of perspective. I am resistant to change, it makes me nervous, it makes me doubt myself, but I know deep down, change is good. Scary? Yes, but exciting too. I challenge you, don't be afraid of change, embrace it! I am going to try!
Here are some insightful quotes from the book:
“Life moves on and so should we”
“When you stop being afraid you feel good”
“See what you're doing wrong, laugh at it, change and do better.”
“Movement in new direction helps find new cheese.”
“Smell the cheese often so you know when it is getting old.”
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Tales from the crib
So let's be real, video monitors are awesome! What is better than being able to look at and hear your baby while they are sleeping? Nothing, that's what. So when Tiffany over at Dropcam emailed me and asked me to join in on their "Tales" from the crib, I thought it was such a fun idea! I didn't have one amazing story to tell, but I have a few that stick out in my mind (and heart).
Recently, Gianna was taking a late nap, my mom went up to check on her and started screaming at the top of her lungs, "GLORI!!!". I immediately start running upstairs and I hear her talking to Gianna, "don't worry, I will break it if I have to". Huh? Well little miss Gianna had stuck her leg through the crib and crazy Granny was freaking and getting Gianna all worked up. I simply turned her leg and slid it out, something she probably would have done herself if Granny didn't go crazy. Funny crib memory!
Another fun little crib memory I have is of Gianna playing in her crib too long while she should be drifting off into nap time, so the first time she was staying up a little too long, I used the talk feature on the monitor and said "Go night night, close eyes". I think it startled her a little and she immediately laid down and went to sleep. It has worked many times since that day.
There are a million times when she has woke up and I have just watched her as she has played independently in her crib. From the days when she was an infant and would spend independent play time just rolling around playing with her feet, to the days she learned to play with a little toy, to the days like today where she will wake up and read a book or play with multiple stuffed animals using her imagination. These moments make my heart so happy!
Then, there is my baby boy. He has had challenges. He was small, has reflux, is over coming torticollis and is now wearing a helmet for plagiocephaly. These things have probably kept me a little extra concerned about him, especially while he is sleeping. I didn't want him to roll over and get stuck, to throw up or choke while sleeping or any other discomforting and dangerous thing to happen to him while sleeping. However, I did want him to learn to sleep in his crib right away. He started at 8 weeks with a wedge and the monitor turned up to the max. Now, he is sleeping peacefully with a lovey, a couple small toys and a light blanket. His helmet is even to help protect him as he rolls around and bumps himself, lol. He is currently in the teething phase and wakes up for his paci, so we sprinkle paris all around him when he goes to bed so that there is always one in arms reach.
For both my kids, the crib has been a happy place and for that I am grateful.
Recently, Gianna was taking a late nap, my mom went up to check on her and started screaming at the top of her lungs, "GLORI!!!". I immediately start running upstairs and I hear her talking to Gianna, "don't worry, I will break it if I have to". Huh? Well little miss Gianna had stuck her leg through the crib and crazy Granny was freaking and getting Gianna all worked up. I simply turned her leg and slid it out, something she probably would have done herself if Granny didn't go crazy. Funny crib memory!
Another fun little crib memory I have is of Gianna playing in her crib too long while she should be drifting off into nap time, so the first time she was staying up a little too long, I used the talk feature on the monitor and said "Go night night, close eyes". I think it startled her a little and she immediately laid down and went to sleep. It has worked many times since that day.
There are a million times when she has woke up and I have just watched her as she has played independently in her crib. From the days when she was an infant and would spend independent play time just rolling around playing with her feet, to the days she learned to play with a little toy, to the days like today where she will wake up and read a book or play with multiple stuffed animals using her imagination. These moments make my heart so happy!
Then, there is my baby boy. He has had challenges. He was small, has reflux, is over coming torticollis and is now wearing a helmet for plagiocephaly. These things have probably kept me a little extra concerned about him, especially while he is sleeping. I didn't want him to roll over and get stuck, to throw up or choke while sleeping or any other discomforting and dangerous thing to happen to him while sleeping. However, I did want him to learn to sleep in his crib right away. He started at 8 weeks with a wedge and the monitor turned up to the max. Now, he is sleeping peacefully with a lovey, a couple small toys and a light blanket. His helmet is even to help protect him as he rolls around and bumps himself, lol. He is currently in the teething phase and wakes up for his paci, so we sprinkle paris all around him when he goes to bed so that there is always one in arms reach.
For both my kids, the crib has been a happy place and for that I am grateful.
Friday, February 21, 2014
Five on Friday!
{one}
So crazy to think temps were near 70 here in Atlanta this week and last week we had a snow storm! Loving this warm weather and my weekend runs!
{two}
Strep. Yuck. Gianna has caught it for the first time and has hardly eaten anything in 2 days. We caught it super early and she had a painful shot that should be kicking streps ass right about now.
{three}
Traveling in 2014? I am! We have booked our trip to Jamaica in June, my last weekend in my 20's in November is booked for San Francisco and am in the middle of booking a September week in Disney for Gianna as a 3rd birthday present. :) Fun times ahead for the Changar fam!
{four}
Work. Lots of changes are happening and lots of work is coming. Some parts are exciting, some are not. Trying to take it all in and make the best of it. So thankful for my husband and family as they help bear the weight of my work load. It takes a village people!
{five}
Hot Yoga! Ah, I have been missing it the past few weeks, went back Monday, got super sore and loved every second.
Cheers to the weekend ya'll, let's do this!
So crazy to think temps were near 70 here in Atlanta this week and last week we had a snow storm! Loving this warm weather and my weekend runs!
{two}
Strep. Yuck. Gianna has caught it for the first time and has hardly eaten anything in 2 days. We caught it super early and she had a painful shot that should be kicking streps ass right about now.
{three}
Traveling in 2014? I am! We have booked our trip to Jamaica in June, my last weekend in my 20's in November is booked for San Francisco and am in the middle of booking a September week in Disney for Gianna as a 3rd birthday present. :) Fun times ahead for the Changar fam!
{four}
Work. Lots of changes are happening and lots of work is coming. Some parts are exciting, some are not. Trying to take it all in and make the best of it. So thankful for my husband and family as they help bear the weight of my work load. It takes a village people!
{five}
Hot Yoga! Ah, I have been missing it the past few weeks, went back Monday, got super sore and loved every second.
Cheers to the weekend ya'll, let's do this!
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Workout Wednesday- The day I ran a half marathon
I picked up running back when I was a junior in high school. When I started, I couldn't make it a mile. I stuck with it, and by the time I was in college I was knocking out 6 miles like nobody's business. I mean I wasn't running super speedy, but pretty fast in my book, anywhere from a 8-9 minute mile which is must faster than what I do today.
Then, my career started, life's wonderful responsibilities, graduate school started while working full time and I was traveling for work more. I still hit up the gym and ran, but nothing like I was doing, because my free time was drastically reduced. Around the time I met my husband (Fall 2008) I was training for my first half with my best friend. We were probably up to about 8 or 9 miles when my love journey started picking up with my husband and I started bailing out of runs to spend time with him, we were new and needed that nurturing.We both ditched the half training and that was fine.
My husband and I started working out together after work, I introduced him to the treadmill. At first, he was not a fan, again, he couldn't even run a mile without gasping for air. Eventually, he got better and better. He ran a few 5ks and eventually his first Peachtree Road Race (10k) and he was hooked. Then, of all times, when I was pregnant with Miles, he decided to kick it up a notch and start running 8-9 miles on some weekends, while I was laid up at home taking care of a toddler, getting fat. How kind, lol.
After I had my son, I felt pretty great relatively. I was ready to get back into shape and wanted to reach some personal goals, so I convinced my husband who had basically already started training to sign up for a half marathon which was 12 weeks out. I found this training guide and followed it loosely. I was up to 10 miles in what feels like no time and enjoying it! I had found a love for running outside and I was feeling so accomplished.
3.5 months after having my second child, I ran my first half marathon! It was euphoric. It was such an achievement and to be able to accomplish it alongside my husband was even better. I didn't do as well as I would have liked, I got a little psyched out, but I finished and under my main goal time. We signed up for another Thanksgiving morning and we both killed it! It was awesome! And freezing by the way! LOL
Anyways, my point is, yes some people can run and run and run, but anyone can run. You just have to stick with it, push yourself and don't give up. Each run try to go a little longer. It is a skill, you will improve and you can do it. Your knees may hurt, ice them, you may get sore, it is normal, you may throw up, that's ok, you may hate it at first, get over it, just keep going!!!
Then, my career started, life's wonderful responsibilities, graduate school started while working full time and I was traveling for work more. I still hit up the gym and ran, but nothing like I was doing, because my free time was drastically reduced. Around the time I met my husband (Fall 2008) I was training for my first half with my best friend. We were probably up to about 8 or 9 miles when my love journey started picking up with my husband and I started bailing out of runs to spend time with him, we were new and needed that nurturing.We both ditched the half training and that was fine.
My husband and I started working out together after work, I introduced him to the treadmill. At first, he was not a fan, again, he couldn't even run a mile without gasping for air. Eventually, he got better and better. He ran a few 5ks and eventually his first Peachtree Road Race (10k) and he was hooked. Then, of all times, when I was pregnant with Miles, he decided to kick it up a notch and start running 8-9 miles on some weekends, while I was laid up at home taking care of a toddler, getting fat. How kind, lol.
After I had my son, I felt pretty great relatively. I was ready to get back into shape and wanted to reach some personal goals, so I convinced my husband who had basically already started training to sign up for a half marathon which was 12 weeks out. I found this training guide and followed it loosely. I was up to 10 miles in what feels like no time and enjoying it! I had found a love for running outside and I was feeling so accomplished.
3.5 months after having my second child, I ran my first half marathon! It was euphoric. It was such an achievement and to be able to accomplish it alongside my husband was even better. I didn't do as well as I would have liked, I got a little psyched out, but I finished and under my main goal time. We signed up for another Thanksgiving morning and we both killed it! It was awesome! And freezing by the way! LOL
Anyways, my point is, yes some people can run and run and run, but anyone can run. You just have to stick with it, push yourself and don't give up. Each run try to go a little longer. It is a skill, you will improve and you can do it. Your knees may hurt, ice them, you may get sore, it is normal, you may throw up, that's ok, you may hate it at first, get over it, just keep going!!!
Sunday, February 16, 2014
Valentine's shout out to my Mista Lova!
Love. Isn't it a beautiful thing? Although I officially have 3 Valentine's, my main squeeze, my mista, he is my true Valentine. He is truly amazing and while most days I am probably complaining to much, as is he (cough cough husband), why not have one day a year that is dedicated to the amazing thing that brought us together...love.
I am so glad that love brought us together. We both had separate journeys. Bad relationships, failed relationships, tears shed & lessons learned, but those were just teasers, teasers for our journey together. The amazing life that we would build, the children we have created, and this beautiful love thing we share.
AL, my love, my man, my best friend,
Our love is forever, not just a trend.
You make me smile, laugh and feel happy.
And seeing you with our kids makes me so sappy.
I love that you can pick up a bug with your hands,
work with tools and hang the christmas light strands.
You can also whip up a mean meal,
and know just how to make a lady feel.
There is so many reasons our love is the best,
and the most special thing in the world is our little nest.
Thank you so much for being my Valentine,
and always looking so, so fine. :)
I love you today and always!
I am so glad that love brought us together. We both had separate journeys. Bad relationships, failed relationships, tears shed & lessons learned, but those were just teasers, teasers for our journey together. The amazing life that we would build, the children we have created, and this beautiful love thing we share.
AL, my love, my man, my best friend,
Our love is forever, not just a trend.
You make me smile, laugh and feel happy.
And seeing you with our kids makes me so sappy.
I love that you can pick up a bug with your hands,
work with tools and hang the christmas light strands.
You can also whip up a mean meal,
and know just how to make a lady feel.
There is so many reasons our love is the best,
and the most special thing in the world is our little nest.
Thank you so much for being my Valentine,
and always looking so, so fine. :)
I love you today and always!
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
My Captain America Baby
For those of you who haven't read my guest post over at Becky's site, about a month ago Miles was officially diagnosed with Plagiocephaly, or flat head syndrome. Plagiocephaly is becoming more and more common as parents are encouraged to keep their babies sleeping on their backs. For Miles, he had a growth restriction in the womb and was born very small, this led him to Torticollis and Torticollis often leads to Plagiocephaly. For those of you who have never dealt with these things, these terms are probably new to you.
Miles was diagnosed with Torticollis at his 4 month appointment. He was favoring one side, not enjoying tummy time at all, not rolling over and not turning his head easily. He immediately started physical therapy. During all this time we knew his head was a little flat, but as most babies are at this point, we waited and monitored it. At one of his visits with his physical therapist she recommended we get a scan. We did and he was diagnosed with moderate Plagiocephaly. His symmetry was actually ok and would probably improve to the normal range on its own, but his head was a little wider than they would like the ratio to be. So decision made, our son was going to be rocking a helmet.
He has now had his helmet on for 2 weeks, overall it has been a pretty smooth transition. It started out great, but as of recently he has seemed bothered by it and we are now going on 2 nights of rough sleep, but he had his first adjustment yesterday and hopefully that made it a little more comfortable for him again. You can already see improvements to his head, it is really quite amazing.
We have taken him all over with his helmet, ballet, the park, the store, dinners, etc. Do people stare? Of course they do. Have people asked some ridiculous questions. Yes, they have. Do I understand? Somewhat, I mean I probably would have been clueless a few years ago too, but hello, a helmet isn't going to do anything for your brain people, he doesn't have anything wrong with his brain (thank God).
A lot of people with babies who have Plagiocephaly think they did something wrong or that it is their fault. As a mom of 2 kids who I have done everything exactly the same with, I can tell you that is not true. For Miles, he had a condition that led to this, but even if your baby didn't, you are not at fault. Everyone today pushes parents to keep their babies on their back while sleeping and let's face it, most babies sleep a lot in the beginning. SIDS is a very real and scary thing and the #1 prevention for it is to keep babies on their backs. Backs. Backs. Backs. Well, with this, comes other things like plagiocephaly. Babies heads are soft in the beginning, so keeping them on their backs makes their little heads flat. Most will improve on their own as they get increased tummy time and start sitting up, but others need some help and these very expensive helmets seem to do the trick.
A new fashion trend? You betcha! If you haven't heard, helmets are all the rage, I mean just ask Captain America...
Miles was diagnosed with Torticollis at his 4 month appointment. He was favoring one side, not enjoying tummy time at all, not rolling over and not turning his head easily. He immediately started physical therapy. During all this time we knew his head was a little flat, but as most babies are at this point, we waited and monitored it. At one of his visits with his physical therapist she recommended we get a scan. We did and he was diagnosed with moderate Plagiocephaly. His symmetry was actually ok and would probably improve to the normal range on its own, but his head was a little wider than they would like the ratio to be. So decision made, our son was going to be rocking a helmet.
He has now had his helmet on for 2 weeks, overall it has been a pretty smooth transition. It started out great, but as of recently he has seemed bothered by it and we are now going on 2 nights of rough sleep, but he had his first adjustment yesterday and hopefully that made it a little more comfortable for him again. You can already see improvements to his head, it is really quite amazing.
We have taken him all over with his helmet, ballet, the park, the store, dinners, etc. Do people stare? Of course they do. Have people asked some ridiculous questions. Yes, they have. Do I understand? Somewhat, I mean I probably would have been clueless a few years ago too, but hello, a helmet isn't going to do anything for your brain people, he doesn't have anything wrong with his brain (thank God).
A lot of people with babies who have Plagiocephaly think they did something wrong or that it is their fault. As a mom of 2 kids who I have done everything exactly the same with, I can tell you that is not true. For Miles, he had a condition that led to this, but even if your baby didn't, you are not at fault. Everyone today pushes parents to keep their babies on their back while sleeping and let's face it, most babies sleep a lot in the beginning. SIDS is a very real and scary thing and the #1 prevention for it is to keep babies on their backs. Backs. Backs. Backs. Well, with this, comes other things like plagiocephaly. Babies heads are soft in the beginning, so keeping them on their backs makes their little heads flat. Most will improve on their own as they get increased tummy time and start sitting up, but others need some help and these very expensive helmets seem to do the trick.
A new fashion trend? You betcha! If you haven't heard, helmets are all the rage, I mean just ask Captain America...
Friday, February 7, 2014
Five on Friday!
{one}
Ugh, this week has been great, terrible and stressful all at the same time. I started Sunday with stomach flu, but won my super bowl pool. Then, Monday got offered a promotion at work, but was slammed at work all week and missed my gym schedule. I am pooped and looking forward to the weekend.
{two}
Gianna's valentine's day party at pre-school is today and again I am one of the host moms, so I am really looking forward to my lunch break visit with her. Made these fun favors for her exchange and this goody bins for the kids. Excited!!
Ugh, this week has been great, terrible and stressful all at the same time. I started Sunday with stomach flu, but won my super bowl pool. Then, Monday got offered a promotion at work, but was slammed at work all week and missed my gym schedule. I am pooped and looking forward to the weekend.
{two}
Gianna's valentine's day party at pre-school is today and again I am one of the host moms, so I am really looking forward to my lunch break visit with her. Made these fun favors for her exchange and this goody bins for the kids. Excited!!
{three}
This guy is BIG time now, sitting up on his own like a champ! So proud!!!
{four}
My workout is all off this week with work and the stomach bug - it totally sucks, but I am going to do whatever I have to do during this transition at work to keep it up. Back to the grind!
{five}
Oh. My. Goodness do I need a weekend. To catch up. To breathe and to not look at a computer screen all day! Cheers to Friday!!
Tuesday, February 4, 2014
Gianna's Pre-school Valentine's Favors- & a free Printable
I have been loving being a mommy of a pre- schooler and now with my silhouette cameo I am an improved mommy of a pre-schooler (smile). So with another holiday and another school holiday party comes a fun little project for my sweet little girl. I decided to do something quick, easy, practical and of course cute for her Valentine's day favors to pass out in class. Here is a look at Gianna's favors and a free printable for a generic version of the label I designed myself.
Here is the free printable version.
4 baby embryos...just chillin'
For those of you who read my blog, you know that we went through IVF with ICSI with both of our kids. We were very fortunate, I was a prime candidate for IVF and my body responded very well to all of the medication. I easily produced 22 large eggs, 10 fertilized and 7 made it to beautiful day 5 embryos of the highest grade! We have only had to transfer 1 embryo each time and all 3 resulted in positive pregnancy tests. One did end in an early miscarriage, but 2 out of 3 have turned into beautiful babies. We are blessed to say the least. Blessed that science made this process available for us, blessed to have success with it, to be able to afford it, etc, etc.
In our minds we have always been a 2 kid type of family. I have always said I prefer man on man defense over the zone (smile). Now that I have my 2 beautiful babies, I am hesitant, am I really done? Not so sure. I wavered and came back to the decision that I "think" I am, but still have the ability to change my mind. However, we still have these 4 beautiful baby embryos that are currently sitting in the freezer and each year we pay a rental fee, yes, a rental fee, to store our little babies. It is a pretty large expense and could go towards many other things, kids college, savings, vacation, etc. We can stop paying it at any time and have 3 options of what would happen to our little embryos.
One, they could be disposed of.
Two, they can be donated to science and research.
Or three, they can be donated to someone to use.
We decided from the get go, option three was not an option, for us it was just too weird and while I respect everyone's decisions and while I feel empathy towards those who need emrbyos in order to conceive, for me just cannot do it. We decided science is what got us here, so once we were ready to make that decision, we would donate our embryos to science. However, I cannot bring myself to grips to do it anytime soon. I just am not sure and feel like I have plenty of time to still change my mind, so for now we continue to pay our rental fees, but gosh I don't know if I will ever be ready to say goodbye to them permanently. Although for now our IVF journey is complete, it still is an emotional roller coaster.
In our minds we have always been a 2 kid type of family. I have always said I prefer man on man defense over the zone (smile). Now that I have my 2 beautiful babies, I am hesitant, am I really done? Not so sure. I wavered and came back to the decision that I "think" I am, but still have the ability to change my mind. However, we still have these 4 beautiful baby embryos that are currently sitting in the freezer and each year we pay a rental fee, yes, a rental fee, to store our little babies. It is a pretty large expense and could go towards many other things, kids college, savings, vacation, etc. We can stop paying it at any time and have 3 options of what would happen to our little embryos.
One, they could be disposed of.
Two, they can be donated to science and research.
Or three, they can be donated to someone to use.
We decided from the get go, option three was not an option, for us it was just too weird and while I respect everyone's decisions and while I feel empathy towards those who need emrbyos in order to conceive, for me just cannot do it. We decided science is what got us here, so once we were ready to make that decision, we would donate our embryos to science. However, I cannot bring myself to grips to do it anytime soon. I just am not sure and feel like I have plenty of time to still change my mind, so for now we continue to pay our rental fees, but gosh I don't know if I will ever be ready to say goodbye to them permanently. Although for now our IVF journey is complete, it still is an emotional roller coaster.
Friday, January 24, 2014
Five on Friday!
{one}
The kids went to their first ever concert last night, Fresh Beat Band! It was soooo much fun, Gianna had a blast! It was one of the coldest days we have had, but we made the best of it. We had great seats and she danced and was able to sing and scream as loud as her little heart desired. glow stick that she broke within an hourr= $15 down the drain, experience seeing her enjoy herself= priceless!!
The kids went to their first ever concert last night, Fresh Beat Band! It was soooo much fun, Gianna had a blast! It was one of the coldest days we have had, but we made the best of it. We had great seats and she danced and was able to sing and scream as loud as her little heart desired. glow stick that she broke within an hourr= $15 down the drain, experience seeing her enjoy herself= priceless!!
{two}
I made my first t-shirt on my silhoette cameo and it turned out great! So much fun being a mommy and super proud that I am a full time working mommy and still do fun crafts for my kids and attend all their school parties. I have actually co-hosted every party at G's school this year. Go me! hahah, sorry, had to brag.
{three}
This sweet dude gets his helmet Monday! Keep him in your prayers!
{four}
My mother in law comes in town Sunday to meet Miles! I am looking forward to her visit!
{five}
Gianna had pre-school registration this week and next year she will be going 3 days a week. Oh. my. My baby is growing up. Miles will start in January of next year.
Happy Friday Everyone!!!
Thursday, January 23, 2014
DIY Photo Canvas
I recently hosted our monthly pinterest club project and decided to do a DIY canvas photo. Inspired by my husband who made one for me for my birthday. It is super cheap & easy and really looks cute. Such a fun, personalized gift for family or friends too! All you need is a canvas of any size, a laser printed (right off your printer) image either in color or black and white, matte gel (which will make several canvases), a spray bottle of water and some sort of brush, I used super cheap ones.
Keep in mind- Print your image in mirror if you want it to look the way you currently see it.
To start, apply a nice coat of gel matte to your canvas, make it thick and even, but not too thick, just make sure the whole canvas is covered. Then, put your image face down onto the canvas, press evenly across to make sure your image is pressed down all over. Then, leave it overnight.
Come back and saturate it with water from your spray bottle, a nice misting spray. You want it pretty wet, but no puddles, wipe those off, then you just start rubbing in circles and rub the paper right off. You want your rub to be firm, but not too firm. At first the pieces will come off easily, but then you may need more water, it's ok, you can spray away, but don't get it too too wet once the paper starts coming off, because as long as you are patient with your circles, the paper will continue to come off. You will start to see a clear, crisp image and the picture will start to feel rubber like once you are done. After you are satisfied with the way the picture looks DRY (this is important, because as it dries you can really see the left over pieces of paper). Then, paint a final coat of matte gel on top and then you are finished.
Be very careful on faces, you don't want to rub them off and you can see in the corner of one of my images where it got too wet and rubbed right off.
Keep in mind- Print your image in mirror if you want it to look the way you currently see it.
To start, apply a nice coat of gel matte to your canvas, make it thick and even, but not too thick, just make sure the whole canvas is covered. Then, put your image face down onto the canvas, press evenly across to make sure your image is pressed down all over. Then, leave it overnight.
Come back and saturate it with water from your spray bottle, a nice misting spray. You want it pretty wet, but no puddles, wipe those off, then you just start rubbing in circles and rub the paper right off. You want your rub to be firm, but not too firm. At first the pieces will come off easily, but then you may need more water, it's ok, you can spray away, but don't get it too too wet once the paper starts coming off, because as long as you are patient with your circles, the paper will continue to come off. You will start to see a clear, crisp image and the picture will start to feel rubber like once you are done. After you are satisfied with the way the picture looks DRY (this is important, because as it dries you can really see the left over pieces of paper). Then, paint a final coat of matte gel on top and then you are finished.
Be very careful on faces, you don't want to rub them off and you can see in the corner of one of my images where it got too wet and rubbed right off.
Tuesday, January 21, 2014
Friendships: Some are silver, the other gold
Friends. They are all unique and they are all so very special. My motto is friends are the family you chose. If you have a great family, like I do, consider yourself lucky, not everyone has this, but friends are different. Friends are chosen, and yes friendships come and go, sometimes you lose a good one and look back and wish you would have put more into that friendship, sometimes you lose a bad one and there is no love lost. Friendships are like any other relationship, you have to nurture them for them to flourish.
I have many friendships that I cherish. I do not have a ton of friends, but the ones I do have I try to maintain. There are my 2 best friends, Taylor and Shelley. Shelley is my friend who I can talk to about anything and she will bring me down to earth when needed, or encourage me if needed. Fights with the husband, pregnancy or mommy issues, you name it, we can discuss it. Shelley and I met in middle school, but really started becoming close in high school. We were college room mates and our friendship is tried and true. I call her almost daily on my way home from work and although it has been several years since we lived super close, for about a year now she has lived states away in New Jersey. We don't get to see each other often, but our friendship does not miss a beat. Then, there is Taylor, my other besty who I have been very tight with since Kindergarden. Her, Shelley and I used to call ourselves, "3 deep in the jeep". Yes, I drove a jeep. We got in trouble together, we played sports together, we did everything together. Taylor has always been the care free one, the funny one who will lift you up when you need it. She always see's the glass half full and although opposite schedules have kept us from visiting and chatting as much as we should, our friendship will last forever without a doubt.
Then, there are new friends. Friends I have met as neighbors, friends I have met through work and those friendships are growing leaps and bounds. There are the ones who you can trust with anything. Who do not judge you, who you know do not speak ill of you, who would do anything for you. Those are the ones you hope your kids grow up together, who you want to grow with as adults, as couples, as parents. There are the other friends who you have fun with, who may like to gossip so you have to watch your tongue, but who you know don't mean anything by it and that is just them. There are other friends who your relationship hasn't taken those big steps yet, but you enjoy your time together and sometimes may even wish you could build them deeper. Friendship comes in all shapes and sizes.
Friendship takes work and to be honest, time is limited. Very limited. You have to pick and chose your friendships carefully. As a wife and mommy who works full time, my time is extremely valuable. My family is close by and a lot of free time is spent with them as well, so the time I do have to spend with my friends is limited. I try to make it to the important things and even step out of my comfort zone to attend things I am not really looking forward to attending. Sometimes there are friendships you would like to grow deeper and you just don't make the time or have the time, but for those friendships that have already proven to be valuable, maintain them, nurture them and they will never stop growing.
I am so grateful for the friendships I have. For the friendships that go years back and have so much history. For the friendships that are just starting and you know you will make history with. For the friendships that you will keep in touch with throughout the years, but never truly grow into. For the friendships that are made through blogging :) and instagram pictures. For the friendships with my family, my husband and my children which are by far my most important friendships.
As the old song goes...
Make new friends, but keep the old, some are silver, the other gold.
I have many friendships that I cherish. I do not have a ton of friends, but the ones I do have I try to maintain. There are my 2 best friends, Taylor and Shelley. Shelley is my friend who I can talk to about anything and she will bring me down to earth when needed, or encourage me if needed. Fights with the husband, pregnancy or mommy issues, you name it, we can discuss it. Shelley and I met in middle school, but really started becoming close in high school. We were college room mates and our friendship is tried and true. I call her almost daily on my way home from work and although it has been several years since we lived super close, for about a year now she has lived states away in New Jersey. We don't get to see each other often, but our friendship does not miss a beat. Then, there is Taylor, my other besty who I have been very tight with since Kindergarden. Her, Shelley and I used to call ourselves, "3 deep in the jeep". Yes, I drove a jeep. We got in trouble together, we played sports together, we did everything together. Taylor has always been the care free one, the funny one who will lift you up when you need it. She always see's the glass half full and although opposite schedules have kept us from visiting and chatting as much as we should, our friendship will last forever without a doubt.
Then, there are new friends. Friends I have met as neighbors, friends I have met through work and those friendships are growing leaps and bounds. There are the ones who you can trust with anything. Who do not judge you, who you know do not speak ill of you, who would do anything for you. Those are the ones you hope your kids grow up together, who you want to grow with as adults, as couples, as parents. There are the other friends who you have fun with, who may like to gossip so you have to watch your tongue, but who you know don't mean anything by it and that is just them. There are other friends who your relationship hasn't taken those big steps yet, but you enjoy your time together and sometimes may even wish you could build them deeper. Friendship comes in all shapes and sizes.
Friendship takes work and to be honest, time is limited. Very limited. You have to pick and chose your friendships carefully. As a wife and mommy who works full time, my time is extremely valuable. My family is close by and a lot of free time is spent with them as well, so the time I do have to spend with my friends is limited. I try to make it to the important things and even step out of my comfort zone to attend things I am not really looking forward to attending. Sometimes there are friendships you would like to grow deeper and you just don't make the time or have the time, but for those friendships that have already proven to be valuable, maintain them, nurture them and they will never stop growing.
I am so grateful for the friendships I have. For the friendships that go years back and have so much history. For the friendships that are just starting and you know you will make history with. For the friendships that you will keep in touch with throughout the years, but never truly grow into. For the friendships that are made through blogging :) and instagram pictures. For the friendships with my family, my husband and my children which are by far my most important friendships.
As the old song goes...
Make new friends, but keep the old, some are silver, the other gold.
Friday, January 17, 2014
5 on Friday!
Happy Friday Ya'll!
{one}
My legs are sore and I love it! My first time doing legs was rough and it was awesome, my 2nd time I really didn't get sore, so I decided I needed to work a little harder and it worked.
{two}
My diet. It needs work. Rome wasn't built in a day and this year is about the small changes, so I am excited to say we ate dinner at home Monday through Thursday this week AND I brought my lunch 1 day (lol, hey, it is a start). I am going to try and make a few healthy snacks, homemade, this weekend!
{three}
My baby boy turns 7 months old tomorrow. Wow! Oh. My. Gosh. The love I have for my kids. It is amazing!
{four}
I'm off on Monday, can I get a Heck yeah! Man, I love any and every holidays that calls for a day off work. Poor husband doesn't have the day off.
{five}
Tomorrow I have a guest post on one of my very favorite momma's sites, go check it out....pleeeease!!!
{one}
My legs are sore and I love it! My first time doing legs was rough and it was awesome, my 2nd time I really didn't get sore, so I decided I needed to work a little harder and it worked.
{two}
My diet. It needs work. Rome wasn't built in a day and this year is about the small changes, so I am excited to say we ate dinner at home Monday through Thursday this week AND I brought my lunch 1 day (lol, hey, it is a start). I am going to try and make a few healthy snacks, homemade, this weekend!
{three}
My baby boy turns 7 months old tomorrow. Wow! Oh. My. Gosh. The love I have for my kids. It is amazing!
{four}
I'm off on Monday, can I get a Heck yeah! Man, I love any and every holidays that calls for a day off work. Poor husband doesn't have the day off.
{five}
Tomorrow I have a guest post on one of my very favorite momma's sites, go check it out....pleeeease!!!
Wednesday, January 15, 2014
Workout Wednesday- Gym Etiquette
So I am not a fitness freak or expert by any means, but I have always been a gym go-er and always done my fair share of running, completing my first 2 half marathons late in 2013, so I decided to incorporate some more of my fitness routine/life into my blog. I am not a "newbie" in the gym by any means, but I am somewhat new to the weight area as I have neglected it for quite some time. I am trying to keep a postive attitude about the gym crowds and hoping people will stick with their goals for this year, but sometimes I do find myself getting frustrated with people at the gym, new gym go-ers and veterans, which brings me to today's post... Gym Etiquette, this is straight from my head, no list from google here.
Please do not sit on the machines between reps and chit chat or rest. Other people may need them, I have kids to get home to, dinner to cook, etc. etc. etc. I want to get in and out and not spend my life waiting on you. If you need a long rest, fine, but get off the machine!!!
Be aware of your surroundings. It is packed and some people drop their weights or move around like they are the only people there, I do not want 45lbs falling on my toes please.
Wipe off your funk! I don't expect you to spray down every machine, but carry a towel and wipe down your funk after using it.
If your new in a class, hop in and just do your best. Don't come, take a spot and leave half way. You don't have to do what everyone else is doing, but it also isn't going to be a private lesson, join in and go at your own speed.
Re- Rack your weights. I don't want to have to put your weights up.
Wear deodorant. Again with the funk people, less is more!
Don't steal. haha, this has happened to me before. If I leave my phone, turn it in people. Karma is a {beep}!
Treadmills aren't for talking on the phone or singing out loud. No one wants to here either and if you are having a conversation on your phone while other people are waiting to actually sweat, ANNOYING!!!
Wipe down your cardio equipment. MOST gyms have spray or wipes, or towels, or something.
WORK HARD! Enjoy. Encourage and Inspire.
Friday, January 10, 2014
5 on Friday!
{one}
We found out this week that Miles will have to wear a helmet for plagiocephaly. Poor guy, when will all the Dr. Appointments end for him?! I am still emotional about this and trying to get over that it will cost us $3k and if we would have done it 10 days ago it would have been FREE!! But, it is my parental duty. More on this to come.
{two}
We were planning to go to Europe- an all adult trip-- in April, but my heart has been tugging and telling me I am just not ready to leave Miles yet for that long, so we are post poning that trip until next year for our 5 year anniversary and we are going to plan something else in it's place, we are also planning on now going to Jamaica as a family in June to see Allan's parents since they live in Trinidad and there aren't any direct flights from Atlanta there anymore. Crazy I know considering Atlanta is the largest airport, but 2 kids 2 & under, an international flight, a lay over, 2 car seats, 2 pack and plays a stroller, oh lord I want to vomit just thinking about it, lol.
{three}
I have completed 2 leg workouts, 2 pull workouts and 1 push workout so far this year and am on track to do my 3 weight training days each week and damn it. I feel good about it. It is a big change in my workout routine and I have gotten home a few days a little later than I would like, but hoping to speed it up as I become more familiar with the workouts and as the gym clears out with the new years crowd.- Although, if you are one of the newvbies, keep it up, most won't so be one of the ones who will!
{four}
Clean Sheets. Aren't they the greatest! I just changed mine last night and every time I do it I love it!
{five}
Birthday planning. Yep for Mr. Miles first birthday. I have started, I want to try and do all of it myself on my silhouette and in my kitchen, lol, so it will take the full 5 months to make this happen.
Happy Friday All!!
We found out this week that Miles will have to wear a helmet for plagiocephaly. Poor guy, when will all the Dr. Appointments end for him?! I am still emotional about this and trying to get over that it will cost us $3k and if we would have done it 10 days ago it would have been FREE!! But, it is my parental duty. More on this to come.
{two}
We were planning to go to Europe- an all adult trip-- in April, but my heart has been tugging and telling me I am just not ready to leave Miles yet for that long, so we are post poning that trip until next year for our 5 year anniversary and we are going to plan something else in it's place, we are also planning on now going to Jamaica as a family in June to see Allan's parents since they live in Trinidad and there aren't any direct flights from Atlanta there anymore. Crazy I know considering Atlanta is the largest airport, but 2 kids 2 & under, an international flight, a lay over, 2 car seats, 2 pack and plays a stroller, oh lord I want to vomit just thinking about it, lol.
{three}
I have completed 2 leg workouts, 2 pull workouts and 1 push workout so far this year and am on track to do my 3 weight training days each week and damn it. I feel good about it. It is a big change in my workout routine and I have gotten home a few days a little later than I would like, but hoping to speed it up as I become more familiar with the workouts and as the gym clears out with the new years crowd.- Although, if you are one of the newvbies, keep it up, most won't so be one of the ones who will!
{four}
Clean Sheets. Aren't they the greatest! I just changed mine last night and every time I do it I love it!
{five}
Birthday planning. Yep for Mr. Miles first birthday. I have started, I want to try and do all of it myself on my silhouette and in my kitchen, lol, so it will take the full 5 months to make this happen.
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
New Year, New Me?!
So the new year is upon us, it is now officially 2014 and I am not a New Year's resolutioner- ok I don't think resolutioner is a word, but you get the just of this. I am usually not one to make so called "resolutions", but this year I do want to make some goals. Why? I don't know. Maybe it is because this is the year I turn the big 3-0! Or maybe it is because our family is now complete, I am done having kids (I think) and I am ready to focus on my marriage, kids, career, health etc. Maybe it is all of the above. Yes, I think so, all of the above.
So this year I want to focus on the things I can control. If I have a bad day at work, I can go to the gym and work it out, I can control this, I can push hard or go easy on my run, all up to me. I also plan to show the weights some love this year. I have always pretty much stuck to cardio and hot yoga. Maybe a few weights here and there, but now I am taking on a full 3 day a week push, pull and legs weight routine. I am only 1 week in and feeling extremely sore and loving it! I want to see what it can do to my body. I am making this weight regimen a Q1 goal and will evaluate from there. As anyone who reads knows, I am not the healthiest of eaters, so we will have to see what it will do without the diet part, but I am feeling extremely weak at the weights, so I am pumped to get into this new routine. Quite the change for me!!
I want to pray and praise. I feel so very blessed for the beautiful life I have been given, I want to praise God for all of his blessings and pray daily. I want to enjoy my family more, nurture my friendships and have a positive attitude. Also, someone recently reminded me, after the kids grow up and go to college, it is back to just me and the husband. I want to nurture my marriage. This is a lot easier said than done, we love each other, but over the past 3 years of IVF, getting pregnant, doctor's appointments, pregnancies, doctor appointments, newborns, doctors appointments (haha) our love has definitely taken a loss in the spark department and this is something that is hard to kick back up. We have gotten into a routine that does not include cuddles, hand holding and kissing and we need to turn it around. Maybe more date nights and trying to focus on all the amazing qualities I value so deeply about my husband. It's a work in progress, but as long as we are working, so is our marriage.
Cooking. I SUCK at meal planning. Terrible. Picking out a week of recipes, making the list, actually remembering to bring the list to the store, then actually getting everything on the list? Not my thing! I did great when I was on maternity leave and could grab the kids and run to the store a couple days a week if needed, but now, I am back to sucking at it. But...I have always wanted to cook more meals at home and now I am more serious about it than ever, so we are trying this awesome meal service called Dream Dinners. Basically we pick our menu out from their choices once a month. They have about 20 choices and you pick 12, so 3 dinners a week are planned out. It is all fresh ingredients, you go to their facility once a month and prepare everything, then you bring it home and follow the cook instructions when ready to cook it. Each meal is cooked in about 20 minutes. We have done a sample week and I enjoyed it. It averages about $15 a meal for a 3 serving meal, but it is healthy, it keeps us at home, cheaper than eating out, fresh, gives us a chance to try new stuff and takes the planning out of 3 of our meals, then we still have time to throw in an easy recipe and a Sunday meal that takes a little more planning. I am pumped about this and hope we love it as much as I think we will.
2014 is a year of small changes. I hope and pray it is a great year (for all of us)!
So this year I want to focus on the things I can control. If I have a bad day at work, I can go to the gym and work it out, I can control this, I can push hard or go easy on my run, all up to me. I also plan to show the weights some love this year. I have always pretty much stuck to cardio and hot yoga. Maybe a few weights here and there, but now I am taking on a full 3 day a week push, pull and legs weight routine. I am only 1 week in and feeling extremely sore and loving it! I want to see what it can do to my body. I am making this weight regimen a Q1 goal and will evaluate from there. As anyone who reads knows, I am not the healthiest of eaters, so we will have to see what it will do without the diet part, but I am feeling extremely weak at the weights, so I am pumped to get into this new routine. Quite the change for me!!
I want to pray and praise. I feel so very blessed for the beautiful life I have been given, I want to praise God for all of his blessings and pray daily. I want to enjoy my family more, nurture my friendships and have a positive attitude. Also, someone recently reminded me, after the kids grow up and go to college, it is back to just me and the husband. I want to nurture my marriage. This is a lot easier said than done, we love each other, but over the past 3 years of IVF, getting pregnant, doctor's appointments, pregnancies, doctor appointments, newborns, doctors appointments (haha) our love has definitely taken a loss in the spark department and this is something that is hard to kick back up. We have gotten into a routine that does not include cuddles, hand holding and kissing and we need to turn it around. Maybe more date nights and trying to focus on all the amazing qualities I value so deeply about my husband. It's a work in progress, but as long as we are working, so is our marriage.
Cooking. I SUCK at meal planning. Terrible. Picking out a week of recipes, making the list, actually remembering to bring the list to the store, then actually getting everything on the list? Not my thing! I did great when I was on maternity leave and could grab the kids and run to the store a couple days a week if needed, but now, I am back to sucking at it. But...I have always wanted to cook more meals at home and now I am more serious about it than ever, so we are trying this awesome meal service called Dream Dinners. Basically we pick our menu out from their choices once a month. They have about 20 choices and you pick 12, so 3 dinners a week are planned out. It is all fresh ingredients, you go to their facility once a month and prepare everything, then you bring it home and follow the cook instructions when ready to cook it. Each meal is cooked in about 20 minutes. We have done a sample week and I enjoyed it. It averages about $15 a meal for a 3 serving meal, but it is healthy, it keeps us at home, cheaper than eating out, fresh, gives us a chance to try new stuff and takes the planning out of 3 of our meals, then we still have time to throw in an easy recipe and a Sunday meal that takes a little more planning. I am pumped about this and hope we love it as much as I think we will.
2014 is a year of small changes. I hope and pray it is a great year (for all of us)!
Monday, January 6, 2014
3-6 Month Favorites
3 to 6 months is such an amazing age. Baby starts getting their personality, laughing, babbling, rolling, sitting up, etc. It starts the age of exploration and so much learning and observation. Here are some of Miles 3-6 month favorites, other than his sister and 2 boston terriers, lol.
1. Bumbo Seat - the greatest, we now put him in the bath with his big sister, you can take it with you to go visit people's houses and have the baby sit at the table, on the floor, etc.
2. Sophie - the most expensive teething toy you will ever see, but totally worth it. He LOVES it and now he is official, rocking 2 bottom teeth!
3. Baby Links - can't get enough of these, you can use them to attach the pacis, hang toys from play mat, car seat, stroller, etc. Miles loves to chew on them as well.
4. Lovie - Miles has 2 and loves them. He cuddles with them and covers his eyes with them while napping
5. Exersaucer - Fun, Fun and more fun! Both our babies are relatively small, so this one was great, because they both loved to be upright and it has a nice base that can be moved up and down to grow with them.
1. Bumbo Seat - the greatest, we now put him in the bath with his big sister, you can take it with you to go visit people's houses and have the baby sit at the table, on the floor, etc.
2. Sophie - the most expensive teething toy you will ever see, but totally worth it. He LOVES it and now he is official, rocking 2 bottom teeth!
3. Baby Links - can't get enough of these, you can use them to attach the pacis, hang toys from play mat, car seat, stroller, etc. Miles loves to chew on them as well.
4. Lovie - Miles has 2 and loves them. He cuddles with them and covers his eyes with them while napping
5. Exersaucer - Fun, Fun and more fun! Both our babies are relatively small, so this one was great, because they both loved to be upright and it has a nice base that can be moved up and down to grow with them.
Friday, January 3, 2014
5 on Friday {2014 Here I come}
Happy Friday Ya'll!
{one}
It's 2014 and I am pumped. This year I want it to be a great year. I want to focus on the things in life I can control and enjoy my family.
{two}
One of my goals this year is to continue to work on my fitness. Diet has never been my thing and probably never will. Last year I ran my first half marathon 4 months after having my son, and another a month later. I killed it and it was a great personal achievement for me and to be able to do it with my husband is the icing on the cake. This year I am showing the weights some love and did my first fill leg workout ever last night. Yes walking is becoming increasingly difficult right now.
{three}
Gianna and Miles started taking baths together. He sits in his bumbo and they both just love being in there with each other. Gianna is finally loving bath time again and asks to take baths now. So. Fun.
{four}
Another one of my goals for this year is to cook more. I work full time, have 2 kids a husband and a house to take care of, not to mention I manage our finances and enjoy getting my workouts in. I signed up for this Dream Dinners program where we go once a month and prepare 12 fresh meals that you freeze and cook up within 20 minutes.
{five}
Cheers to the weekend Ya'll, let's make 2014 a great year!
{one}
It's 2014 and I am pumped. This year I want it to be a great year. I want to focus on the things in life I can control and enjoy my family.
{two}
One of my goals this year is to continue to work on my fitness. Diet has never been my thing and probably never will. Last year I ran my first half marathon 4 months after having my son, and another a month later. I killed it and it was a great personal achievement for me and to be able to do it with my husband is the icing on the cake. This year I am showing the weights some love and did my first fill leg workout ever last night. Yes walking is becoming increasingly difficult right now.
{three}
Gianna and Miles started taking baths together. He sits in his bumbo and they both just love being in there with each other. Gianna is finally loving bath time again and asks to take baths now. So. Fun.
{four}
Another one of my goals for this year is to cook more. I work full time, have 2 kids a husband and a house to take care of, not to mention I manage our finances and enjoy getting my workouts in. I signed up for this Dream Dinners program where we go once a month and prepare 12 fresh meals that you freeze and cook up within 20 minutes.
{five}
Cheers to the weekend Ya'll, let's make 2014 a great year!
Thursday, January 2, 2014
Christmas Re-cap
Well, well, hello 2014! I hope everyone had a wonderful holiday, mine was amazing! It was so nice to be at home spending quality time with my family. We started with Christmas Eve at Grandma and Grandpa's house including church, dinner and presents! Miles played baby Jesus in the Christmas show at church and totally rocked it. Best. Baby. Jesus. Ever!!! About 10 minutes before church started he started screaming crying and wouldn't really stop, but I finally got him to calm down and he stole the show. Love him!! Then, we ate a yummy dinner and opened presents. Gianna was loving it, she got a few things and loved all of them!
That night we came home way passed bed time, but let Gianna put out milk and cookies for Santa. Then, as she went to bed we made MANY trips down the steps putting everything around the tree. The next morning we woke her up, fixed her hair and I walked her downstairs with Miles as Allan recorded her reaction. She started opening presents and was so happy. At times she was overwhelmed, at times she acted like a spoiled brat saying "more presents", but MOST of the time she acted like a very loving, blessed, excited child on Christmas morning and it was FABULOUS! Yes, each toy we opened she wanted to take out of the box, put it together and play, so around 9 am we took a breakfast break and then continued until around 11 am to when she took a nap, then continued some more. It was exhausting, there are still toys everywhere and we are trying to come up with some more storage and organizational solutions as we do not have a dedicated play area other than the living room right now. Which come on, my kids are babies they always need to be in my sight right now anyways, so I am good with it, it just sometimes gives me anxiety.
The whole family came over at lunch and we ate chicken pot pie, mac and cheese, sausage balls, cookies and pie. It was delish! Then, we relaxed around the house for the remainder of the evening, still in our PJ's and finally curled into bed after a very successful Christmas. Miles got a whole lot of teething toys, an awesome pottery barn chair, a few bigger toys for later and some clothes. The teething toys were by far his favorite items. Duh.
Gianna got several Dora toys, several Sofia toys, a Mike the Knight castle set, a microwave (which is a hit), a food set, a new Red Pottery Barn chair, a lot of clothes, a lot of books, some awesome bath toys, a new Dora robe which she now has to wear during nap time, a remote control car, a little mermaid doll and some new DVDs. Definitely spoiled!
My Christmas was filled with some awesome gifts as well and yes I know Christmas is not about gifts, but we are blessed to make this an extra part of our festivities and work very hard to do so. Our Christmas was amazing, it was filled with love, laughter, cheer, family and friends. I love the spirit that fills the air around the holidays and I am sad to see it pass, but I am very much excited about a new year, I hope and pray that each one continues to amaze me the way this one has. I hope you all had the merriest of merry Christmas's as well.
My Christmas was filled with some awesome gifts as well and yes I know Christmas is not about gifts, but we are blessed to make this an extra part of our festivities and work very hard to do so. Our Christmas was amazing, it was filled with love, laughter, cheer, family and friends. I love the spirit that fills the air around the holidays and I am sad to see it pass, but I am very much excited about a new year, I hope and pray that each one continues to amaze me the way this one has. I hope you all had the merriest of merry Christmas's as well.