Merry Christmas

Merry Merry Christmas!

Cousin Christmas

We are spending Christmas with my inlaws in good ol west Texas! It's nice to be away from the big city hustle and bustle, driving the country roads and seeing a lot of stars at night!

We have been enjoying spending time with family and watching all the cousins play together. There are six grand kids under 5 years old! So they are having a blast together. It's a little bit crazy at times, but then we just send them outside to play! :)

We ventured out to the mall to take pictures with Santa yesterday. It took 10 minutes! Seriously. And it was so easy! No one cried and Parker is playing with Santa's beard in the picture! Ha! Ill try to post it next time! But until then here is the cousin clan:

CYP girls dinner

I have been friends with Kimmy, Kim and LeighAnne since 7th grade. That means for 16 years! Growing up it was often Christmas night we would end up together at the movies, at each others houses or all talking on the phone at the same time.

So somewhere down the line we started "CYP girls dinner". This year we had a delicious dinner and chatted the night away. It was fun catching up and just being together. I hope we can always do these, even when we are old and gray! Love you girls so much!

Crazy Morning, Lazy Afternoon

This morning:

-started off around 7am with me still asleep and Bryson handing Parker to me in bed trying to wake me up

-Bad coffee

-Violet probably had 5 timeouts before 10am

-lots of quick meltdowns by V

-lots of snacks

-one brave yet successful trip to Target at noon

This afternoon:

-both kids ate SO much for lunch

-both napped from 2-430pm!!! (They rarely sleep this long at the SAME time!)

-I caught up on 3 episodes RHBH while they napped

-sweet cuddles

-cooked a new dinner meal

-I'm pretty sure Parker signed "more" at dinner

-Games with V to end the night

Observant child

Violet has always been very I observant. Though she acts like an extrovert/sanguine at home, I've noticed she is very reserved and quiet in other environments. She likes to check out the scene first before she calls for attention. Anyways her new I observation the past two months has been smell. It's like her sense of smell just clicked! Tonight I went to wash my face and then waited in the living room while Bryson got her ready for bed. She came in and gave me a hug and a kiss, then she lingered smelling my face. She said "what dat?" I told her I just washed it. And then held out my arm and said smell. She smells and says "that's good that's mommy"

Lately she has been remembering things like crazy. Like Bryson started a new job Monday and we told her where its is. On Tuesday we stop by to bring a few papers Bryson forgot and she says "we go to _____ that's where dada and Kiki (Nikki) work!" Or when I said I needed to jump into the shower real quick she said "momma you jump in the shower or go in the shower" I died laughing! Or when we were going to the doctor a couple days ago and we turn right next to our old apartments, which we haven't even been in this area for months. Just as I'm turning she says "that's my old apartment, I live there when I was a teeny little baby" how does she know this stuff!!?

She also has recently said the most incredible statement about the Holy Spirit that neither I or Bryson has ever taught her...that will be a later post!

Christmas Season

This year we decorated a lot earlier than usual! (We are hosting the "dinner" portion of our sunday school class tacky sweater and progressive dinner tomorrow) Growing up our rule was the decorate after my moms bday on December 14. But I don't mind decorating a little before or after thanksgiving. It makes the month of the Christmas season feel fuller!

Having our "new house" decorated has made it feel cozy and festive. And for the first time in our 4.5 years of marriage we have a big tree!!! I've also been a little crafty lately making the wreaths below. So fun and easy! Here's some of our decor:

The Color Run

A few weeks ago I participated in my very first 5K, The Color Run. And it was SO MUCH fun!! I've heard not all 5ks are that fun, but it's good to know they are creating them to be more fun.

How The Color Works is every "k" color dust is thrown at you, so by the end you are covered in five different colors. Originally I had planned to train to run this 5k but with moving into a house, lack of sleep, two kids, and surgery...I just didn't make time for it. Thankfully I had a walk/jog buddy, Nikki, that trekked with me through it all.

The race route was so pretty! It started and ended at Minute Maid Park, but it had great views of downtown from the highway. I would definitely recommend this race and I hope to do it again! After the race I was so fired up it made me want to sign up for more...and possibly a half marathon. We'll see about that one!

4 Years

I know I'm a little (okay a lot) late, but I didn't want to leave this out!

If you've missed them here are previous anniversary  posts.

On June 7, 2012 Bryson and I celebrated our fourth anniversary! "I cant believe its been _____ years already!" I say this every anniversary. But really the years go by so fast! Four years later, a two year old and a 2 1/2 month old, it is hard to get out just the two of us. Thankfully my parents offered to watch the kids and we headed out for a long date!

4 years and 99 more to go :)

We had both agreed and were excited to see the Titanic Exhibit at the  science museum. I was a huge fan of the movie and watched it more than I'd like to admit. It was AMAZING! I probably read every single word in this exhibit! (Which is rare for me in museums!) It was so interesting! From how the ship was made, the types of people that boarded, how many mistakes were made that could of avoided hitting the iceberg, to seeing real artifacts! So cool! Bryson and really thought this was so neat!

We then headed to the contemporary art museum I know I've married a very talented artist, but sometimes contemporary is just weird and I don't get it! There were 2 pieces that I really liked but the rest!! But I really enjoyed the gift shop! We probably spent more time in there being silly then looking at the art!

Gift Shop Silly

It is what it is...so Parker was only 2 months old and since I'm a nursing mom and was away for a long time, we found a parking lot and I pumped. haha! I felt so awkward a the time and couldn't relax. Anyways it was funny now thinking back on it!

We ended the night at a local Japanese restaurant called Nippon. It is cute, quaint but most of all delicious. It was just nice to have spent a fun day with just my husband. Marriages always need date nights, especialy anniversary dates! We ordered way to much food and walked away with happy bellies!

Calamari, Sushi, and Japanese delicious soup

Marriage is a such a blessing and a challenge. We have many hard days, but many fun days too. Without the Lord guiding Bryson and I everyday our marriage would fall apart. I'm excited to see what the next year holds for us.

30 days of Thanks pt2

I had a whole post written for days 11-20. I wrote one thing I was thankful for each day.

I pushed a wrong button and it deleted my post.

So days 11-20....I'm thankful for technology. LoL

30 Days Of Thanks

Day 1: Hot glue guns! I purchased my first one (ever) today to make a wreath! Though my finger tips are slightly burned, it is holding my beautiful wreath together!

Day 2: Friendship. I have been really blessed with great girl friends from high school friends, college and now new friends!

Day 3: Nap time. Every. Day. 6 out of 7 days I choose to nap when my kids nap rather than anything else that I could/should be doing!

Day 4: Church. Im so thankful we have found a church that is challenging, giving and fun! I also included is our life bible study class! It's full of couples in all walks of life just wanting learn to serve God and others more.

Day 5: Monday morning coffee. That's all that needs to be said!

Day 6: Play Dates! It's fun to see my kids play with other kids (when my kids are behaving!) and it's fun for me to see and talk to a friend during the day too!

Day 7: My husband! (Today is his bday too) He's kind, forgiving, funny, cute, thoughtful, smart, fun, family oriented, creative, loving, wise with money, hard worker, strong, I mean I can go on and on! I'm very thankful he was born today!

Day 8: Backyards. We finally have our first yard and love it! We spend time playing, exploring, hunting for pecans and enjoying nature everyday!

Day 9: AAA roadside assistance. After grocery shopping while walking to tr car I realized I had locked them I side...after grocery shopping...with 2 kids!!! Thankfully AAA arrived quickly and I was during home within 10 minutes if calling!

Day 10: Double Strollers. We have a joovy ultralight caboose and it is awesome! Perfect for my age difference of kids, lightweight, and easy to assemble with one hand (while holding another kid).

Art

As I have stated in previous posts, Violet loves projects! She stays focused and has a lot of fun! Since we now have a backyard I have been really wanting to expand her arts skills and get dirty! I bought a package of paint and this is what happened:

Everything started off nice and clean..

Then Violet started getting a little curious

And then the "no rules" rule was actually making sense!

 

Fun Messy Art = Success

Thankful Thursday

I am beyond thankful for my children! I know I take my time with them for granted some days, but today I'm not!

I often forget that a lot of women can't have children, are struggling to get pregnant, or even had to bury their babies. The thought of these things break my heart! Though I know in all of it The Lord has a plan and a purpose.

Though He has given us children they are just on loan for a short while. He is allowing me to raise them to adulthood to honor and love Him. The more and more I see my children grow, I see how God has created them unique. To be pregnant and have children and not believe in God amazes me! It is an absolute miracle that this human is created inside you and born into the world!

So today I am thankful for Violet and Parker. Violet is full of energy, fun and so eager to learn. Parker is sweet, happy and very curious. Our days together fill my heart. I love hearing Violet sing all day while she plays. I'm thankful Parker is a great napper, because I get to play and focus on Violet during those times. She is so smart and is really silly. She definitely has a natural sanguine spirit! Some days are full of discipline and saying "you need to obey mommy" "I love you, but I don't like your behavior" those days it's hard to be thankful. Parker is so cuddly right now. I love his sweet personality and his very curious attitude. Im thankful He is very laid back and is happy to play by himself in the pack n play! He loves to watch Violet and smiles at her all day. It's tough at night still, when he wakes up and cries for 2 hours! But those smiles and sloppy kisses really make up for it!

Having two kids two years a part is really crazy most days, especially this age! But I'm so thankful for them and so proud to be their momma!

6 months

Parker, Parkey, Bubba, Partha, Parkey-warkey, Parker monster, and Big Guy.

Six months have gone by quickly!! You are 20.8 lbs and 28 inches long. You have four teeth: two on bottom and two on top. You wear size 4 diapers and tightly wearing 12-18 month clothes. We don't understand why you are so big, but we love every bit of you!!

You are on the move! You roll all over the floor! Violet thinks its hilarious to see you go! You also are scooting on your tummy too! We love watching you move from sitting to rolling. You will be crawling in no time! (yikes!) You love to jump jump jump in your jumperoo. I now understand the term "a bouncing baby boy".

Since we moved into a house a month ago you have been sleeping in your very own room. But you still are not sleeping through the night. You tend to wake up at 11pm and 4am and are very angry about it. I think momma and daddy will be focusing on sleep training better now that we are a little more adjusted to the new house. (we are very tired)

You are still nursing 2-3 times a day, along with formula 3 times a day. You LOVE to eat! You have loved all the baby food we have given you. Chewing on pretzels is your new fav!

You are such a cuddle bug!! This is a big change since Violet did not like to cuddle much. We love making you smile and seeing you laugh! Violet likes to blow raspberries back to you and seeing your reaction.

Here a few pics from this month:

Trying out a new teething toy

 

Look at my cheeks!!!

 

Backyard sibling love

Long Distance

We are fortunate enough that that in our relationship/marriage we haven't been apart from each other very much. A few weekend trips here and there, but for the most of the time we are always together. In the past 4 years of our marriage the longest we have spent apart is 6 days, 5 nights and it ends today!!! Bryson should be home in three hours!!

I was pretty anxious about the week by myself. But now looking back on it we had pretty good week. We played with friends, had slumber parties, spent afternoons in the back yard and stayed at my parents. I admire those couple that have to spend months/years apart from each other! I don't know how they do it!

We also spent time doing this:

I wish

I had time to blog.

One day hopefully soon I will update you on:

-4 year wedding anniversary
-New recipes
-new home
-upcoming surgery
-Girls weekend in the hill country
-and random other drafts I have saved

Until then...stay tuned!

Ending on a good note

Today started early very early. After Parker slept through the entire night Sunday night I was hopeful he would do it again! Not happening. He woke up several times and just wouldn't settle. I remember seeing the clock at 12:35am, 1:30am, and 3ish am. I finally nursed him and he slept soundly until 7 and I nursed again, he fell back asleep and got up.

Bryson was just about to leave and I asked how long Violet had been awake (he's takes care of her in the mornings until he leaves for work or I/he wakes me up) he said "you don't want to know!" so I asked again, he answered "6:15am". And then I knew it was going to be a long day. On early days like today I know we are going to have to be a little more creative and V might need a little more care for being over tired.

So once everyone was up, with a few discipline talks we went on a short walk. I was determined to have Parker nap in his bed instead of in the stroller on the walk. Yeah didn't happen. We got home and he refused to nap, all the while sweet Violet is playing so well by herself. So I nursed (again) and we all played.

Finally Parker took a nap and Violet and I did an art project, lunch and I got her down for a nap. Which was just in time for when Parker woke up. I literally was in tears, for all I wanted to do was eat my lunch alone and watch tv. After several attempts to get Parker back to sleep, he won and got to watch me eat lunch. At least he was smiling at me the whole time. Then about the time Parker was getting fussy again, Violet woke up from her nap. I got her situated and put Parker down for a nap. I was able to get my "Tuesday chores" taken care of during that nap.

After he woke up we played and I won't got into details but 4 diapers had to be used to assist me in one diaper change along with a new outfit for Parker. More playing and Violet helped me cook our snack. Then Parker went down for his 3rd and final nap.

Bryson had called earlier in the day saying he would be late due to a deadline at work, so I knew I wouldnt have the extra help at dinner/evening time. While Parker napped I prepared our dinner "taco Tuesday". Violet
watch a Dora episode, I feed Parker his baby food and finished dinner. Violet and I ate while Parker played. I got the kids bathed and in pjs in perfect timing of Bryson walking in the door. Whew!

We got kids down for bed by 8:15pm. I read a little and Bryson is snoozing next to me on the couch. It was one heck of a day. By far the hardest day with two kids. This was a really abnormal day for us. I mean everyday is a little crazy at some point, but today the whole day was crazy!!

I cried a little, prayed a lot, asked for forgiveness and had to apologize to Violet and Parker today. I'm praying tomorrow will be better.

Today was very difficult day. I know there has to be hard days in order for there to be easy days.

Here's to ending on a good note: Sunday I wore my pre-pregnancy jeans for the first time! Randomly I pulled them on before church and they buttoned! (Last month they did not!) Any momma knows this is a big deal! Celebrate with me!

Shakeology: Day 30

I did it!! 30 days completed! I'm honestly proud and shocked. I asked Bryson if he was surprised I actually stuck with it for thirty days, and he said no, I knew you could do it. Sweet Hubs!

This past week I wanted to cheat and not have a shake and just stuff my face with food...just to be a rebel! But remembering I committed to 30 days, wanted to be healthy and knowing I would have to update my blog, I made my shake and enjoyed every drop!

I had doctor appt when I first started shakeology and then I had one yesterday. And between them have lost 7lbs! I was shocked, but very happy! I really haven't been able to work out/exercise like I have wanted the past couple of weeks due to I pulled my back, sleep deprivation and seriously lack of time with trying to manage my family. But I do attribute shakeology with helping, along with breastfeeding, two kids and being better at choosing and cooking healthy meals. 

My favorite shake: Maple Buttercup
1 scoop chocolate shakeology
1 tbsp peanut butter
1 tbsp maple syurp
1 cup milk, ice
mix
Enjoy!

I have really liked how easy it is to make a shake for breakfast or lunch! Sometimes it is just crazy and over whelming with two kids and the simplicity it is make a shake is great. Looking back at my first post about my goals, I think I did a pretty good job at meeting them. I will try to exercise more this next month, hoping my back is better.  I have ordered another 30 day bag of shakeology that should be coming soon! I'm excited for another 30 days. 

Thanks for reading along with my journey!

Shakeology: Day 22

Woke up this morning and I'm down 2lbs from my last post. That's a grand total of 4lbs since starting shakeology! Which means I'm 14 away from Pre-pregnancy, which is my goal.

Last week I hurt my back and wasn't able to work out which I was so bummed about. But it feels better, so I'm trying to incorporate walking and low aerobic exercise back in.

I've really noticed how much my sweet tooth has lessened. I had a delicious piece of a chocolate brownie cookie dessert bar last night and realized I really haven't craved dessert in a while.

I've discovered two recipes that are my favorite so far: cherry monkey and maple buttercup!

Things people say...

We went out to eat with friends on Saturday and Parker was not having it. It was loud, hot and he didn't really get an afternoon nap. So I took him outside to settle down and look around. A lady was walking by and

Lady: oh how cute! He's a big baby! How old is he?
Me: yeah he is! 4 months, but 9 month clothes are getting snug on him!
Lady: stares for a long time)
Me: (smiling)
Lady: yeah my girls were big (insert weight and height of both daughters) how big was he?
Me: 8lbs 5oz
Lady: is this your first?
Me: no, second.
Lady: well they will just get bigger!
Me: ha (fake laugh with a smile)
Lady: (keeps staring at parker)
Me: (talking to Parker)
Lady: I just keep looking at the size of his head and think "OUCH! wow that must of hurt"
Me: I had a c-section
Lady: whew!

Hair today, gone tomorrow

I have been itching to get a hair cut for a couple of weeks now. My hairstylist is in Cypress, so figuring out a time my parents could watch the kids, when they would be home and when I could get a hair appointment were all factors. I know you might be thinking, "find a salon closer to you!" yes, but I LOVE my hairstylist, Michelle, and have been going there for the past 2 years!  You might remember my The Cut after I had Violet. I guess I have a tendency to chop my hair after I have a baby. 

Anyways I finally found the perfect time to schedule a hair appointment this weekend. I give credit to my sister for letting me steal some of her pins on pinterest for short hair.  I'm always a little nervous before getting a hair cut, but since going to Michelle I'm know she will do a great job! I knew I wanted my hair short due to Parker pulling on it a lot, the heat, and I just wanted a change. After showing Michelle a bunch of pictures she went to work. And we ended with this:

Before and After

It's the shortest I've had it in my adult life!! I need to play with it a bit to see what I can do with it, but I really like it! It feels light and perfect for the summer! 



Shakeology: Day 10

Mmmm shakeology! It's so good! Today for breakfast I had the Dark Blue Moon shakeology for breakfast.  I've really been enjoying drinking the shakes for breakfast or lunch! They are fast and really easy! I thought I would get tired of the same drink everyday, but really there are so many concoctions to make! I actually crave/look forward to my shake everyday! I did mess up one shake...lets just say I put WAY too much peppermint! I ended up just throwing it out and grabbing a granola bar on the way to church. I'm somewhat of a "rule-follower" so I was really disappointed I didn't have my shake of that day.
 

Day 10: Dark Blue Moon
1 scoop chocolate shakeology
1 cup milk
1 cup blueberries
ice and blend!

If you remember from my "Day 1" post I had four goals in mind while choosing to drink one shake a day for 30 days.

1. Conscious eating- Last week I mostly had a shake during lunch. It was fast and easy to make! It really has helped me plan ahead of what I was going to eat that day.  The Eating Plan with shakeology is really simple to follow and is what my eating schedule was like before I started shakeology.  I have a big sweet tooth and the past ten days I've noticed I have craved sweets less.
2. Claims- I have felt more energized, especially if I drink a shake for lunch. With 2 kids I need all the extra energy I can get!! My digestion seems to be normal....I've never really had a problem with that ;)
3. Lose Weight- I have lost 2 lbs and shorts that I bought a month ago are not as tight! So this is great!
4. Exercise- I was hit and miss with workouts the past week. I hurt my back lifting my #1 Chunk (aka Parker) and then with 4th of July and family in town. I only have a few open windows to work out during the day: naptime (if they nap at the same time that day) or after the babies go to bed. Its hard choosing when to get my workout in.  But when I did exercise I felt more energy throughout my workouts and overall felt better.   

Anyways I've really enjoyed the many recipes and choosing to drink a healthy meal instead of junk.  Here's to 20 more days! Cheers!

Shakeology: Day 1

Today I'm starting Shakeology for 30 days. A lot of you have heard me talk about it and I'm really excited to start the program!

What is Shakeology?
"A daily nutritional shake that helps your body gently eliminate toxins more efficiently while allowing for better absorption of the essential nutrients you need."
"Its a nutritional protein shake that provides a wide spectrum of healthy nutrients in a low-calorie formula. Whether you use it as a meal replacement for weight loss or simply to ensure your body gets all the nutrients it needs for optimal health, Shakeology takes the guesswork out of nutrition." 

 

A friend of mine is a BeachBody coach (the company that aslo created P90X, Insanity and my personal favorite Turbo Jam!) and was advertising about shakeology on facebook. After asking her a lot of questions, checking out the website, she mailed me a sample to try.  Oh My Goodness! It was delicious! And after talking it over with Bryson, we decided I would order one bag (30 day supply) and see if it was worth it.

Today I had a Mint Chocolate Chip Shakeology for lunch. It was so chocolately and filling! I loved the refreshing taste of mint in the summer! I'm actually really excited to try different recipes using shakeology (a 30 day recipe card is sent with each purchase and more recipes online too)

Day One: Mint Chocolate Chip
1 scoop chocolate shakeology
1 cup milk
 1/8 tsp peppermint extract
 ice

 Goals:

1. Conscious Eating- It is really hard for me most days to figure out what to eat for breakfast and sometimes lunch with two children running around, trying to feed one, nurse the other and then get them ready for naps! Whew! I get so hangry in between all of this!  I will be drinking Shakeology for breakfast or lunch.  This also allows me to think ahead of what else I will be eating for the day.

2. Claim- Part of me wants to see if shakeology is all it's claiming to be: lose weight, feel engergized and improve digestion. 

3. Lose weight- I gained 50lbs during both my pregnancies. After Violet I did get back to pre-pregnancy weight in about a year and was back in the most of my clothes.  Currently I have 18 lbs to lose to get back to pre-pregnacy weight. (I'm not trying to lose it all in 30 days, but seeing if it helps)

4. Exercise- I have a couple really great workout videos that I'm trying to do 2-4x a week. Since this Texas heat has me hibernating mostly indoors, its hard to get outside with two kids during the summer. So most evenings after babies are asleep Bryson and I are workin' on our fitness.


Be on the lookout, I'll be updating throughout the next 30 days how I'm doing with my goals and how shakeology is treating me.  

Violet says....

Lately Violet's imagination, creativity and language development has been exploding!!

Imagination: she plays pretend a lot! Putting her dolls to sleep, feeding them or nursing them (just like momma!) She loves to pretend to pop bubbles and catch baloons and climb ladders! Some days she plays in her room for a long time by herself with her cars and train set.

Creativity: like I have blogged about before, Violet loves her projects. My mom bought her a Kumon sticker and paste book. We spent an hour basically completing the whole book. She loves the one on one time with me and she stays so focused! I love seeing her create!

Language: She is talking non stop! Sometimes we still can't understand her, but for the most part we can. She sings songs a lot too. Her current favorites are: Texas Our Texas, the Dora the Explorer theme song, Jesus Loves Me and Do a dear. Here are some things she is saying:

-While nursing she looks at me and says "Parkey eat momma's chest"

-Pointing to my csection scar "Momma's boo boo all better! Me in there! I cut out!"

-"when I older I turn back to a baby"

-playing in the porch looking at the tree swaying the wind "go away windy go away!"

-whats your brothers name "Parkey big guy owden"

-"no hitting, no pushing Jesus"

-while pointing to a beer "when I older I like beer"

-me "violet we're going to go see the doctor today" she looks shocked runs to Parker and says "Par-ta you go with me???"

-me "mommy loves Violet and mommy loves Parker. Who does Violet love?? Violet "Jesus!!!!"

Privacy Please!

I don't know how other moms shower, but if I don't shower at night this is how it happens during the day:

A very long much needed weekend

We have had a never ending much needed long weekend! It was so relaxing, fun and quality. Bryson took Tuesday off for a mental health day since his job has been so crazy lately. We got 4 whole days with him and it was so enjoyable! We even squeezed in two movies after the kids went to bed! We haven't finished a movie in forever!

We did a little of this and a little of that:
Our apartment complex has (3) beautiful pools that we took full advantage of this weekend.  I also took my first swim of the season! (Though I was only out there for 45 minutes, my tan lines are here! #browngirlproblems)  Bryson said "how does it feel to be in your natural habitat?!" I grew up swimming all summer long! We celebrated Lindsey's birthday, had brunch with the Eacho's and Tita Jessica, went to church and took lots of naps.

Parker just catching some rays

Happy 27 Lindsey!

Our Sunday school class, InsideOut, had our monthly ladies night on Monday.  We got fantastic pedicures to start our feet off right for summer! I really love these women and thankful for new friendships and community!

Pedi Party

InsideOut Ladies

On Tuesday we took full advantage of everyone else working and headed to The Breakfast Klub. It was so nice not to have to wait in line!! I enjoyed a delicious plate of their famous chicken and waffles! (followed by swimming is not recommended, but totally worth it!)

More Please!!

Then last night Bryson's sister, Jill and her family, came in for a doctor appt for Cannon. They came over for breakfast today and we played and played! It's always so fun to see them!

Cousins

So thankful for much needed quality time as a family this long weekend!

Parker's Story

March 18, 2012-  It was a normal Sunday or so we wanted to treat it that way knowing it would be our very last day as a family of three. Bryson, Violet and I headed to church with lots of questions from friends "what are you doing here?!" We could only answer, well we didn't want to just sit at home! The rest of the afternoon we lounged around the house and continued to prepared our hospital bags. I think I went over my bag about 100 times.  I felt more prepared with what I would need this time. We then went to dinner with my parents, bryson's parents, and our niece Ashtyn.  I knew I wouldn't be able to eat a hearty meal for about a week.  With a scheduled c-section you have to fast (no food or drink) before the surgery. So knowing this would be my "last meal" I wanted something good.  A Jerry Built Burgers  had just opened down the street so we decided to eat there. Its a really cool restaurant with a cool hand washer station, computerized soda machine and very kid friendly.  I enjoyed a cheeseburger, sweet potato fries and a BlueBell homemade Vanilla milk shake.  I was quite satisfied.  We hung out there for awhile and headed back home. Violet and Ashtyn played while I was trying to not think about the big day tomorrow. Eventually everyone left and Bryson and I had a sweet time putting Violet to sleep.  I was a little emotional thinking that I wouldn't have just us time anymore, but excited to welcome another child into our lives.



Looking Rough, but to my excuse it was 5am and I'm 39 weeks pregnant!
Ready to meet Baby Boy!

March 19, 2012-  My alarm went off at 4:30am.  Today was the day we were going to meet Parker!  Surprisingly I slept pretty well...as good as you can 39 weeks pregnant! I felt really calm and prepared for the day. I showered and straightened my hair. I know I know, Bryson asked why I was straightening it too. I just felt better having it straight and felt like it would be easier to manage straight than curly.  I was feeling pretty thirsty but couldn't even drink water due to fasting. My parents came over at 5:15am, my mom stayed here while Violet slept and my Dad took Bryson and I to St. Luke's.  We headed to Labor and Delivery for our 6am check-in time. I changed into a robe, had my vitals checked, was hooked up to a monitor and signed a ton of papers.

Almost time!

The monitor detected quite a bit of contractions I was having, but I didn't feel any of them! Nurse Audrey started my IV and was very chatty the entire morning! She was really sweet and I appreciated the talking.  The IV started to hydrate me and I had to pee like 3 times in an hour.  They didn't have a IV hook in the bathroom, so my sweet husband held it for me. Thanks B! haha! It was almost time to head to the operation room. We had met with the anesthesiologist, Dr. Parker (cool huh!?) and were being prepped as to what to happen next. All similar to what we did with Violet. Nurse Audrey had me drink a salty orange solution to help prevent if I threw up it would not burn my throat. Bryson changed into his hospital outfit, we had one last hug and kiss and Audrey walked me to the OR.  Walking in I started to get nervous. It was really cold and the shock of the sterile, not pretty at all room got my nerves ticking.  Dr. Parker and his assistant, Carey, were the only people in there. Carey was so nice and made me feel calm. He was talking about his daughter and I kept talking to try to not be nervous. They helped me up on the table, I just stared straight ahead, and they started my spinal block.  It felt like a sting in my back followed by a warm tingle sensation. Immediately I felt my butt and upper thighs start to "fall asleep". It is the strangest feeling. Then it moved down to my legs and pretty soon I couldn't feel anything.  Pretty cool!

They changed me to operating table and kept chatting with me. Nurse Audrey came in and started to get things ready for the surgery.  Everyone was talking and I started feeling nervous and nauseous, not a good combo. Dr. Parker started to help with adjusting the medicine, but I was said "I'm going to throw up!" Carey was there with a little bowl and I threw up the salty orange solution.  I actually felt better! My OBGY, Dr. Boswell and assisting her Dr. Bobo came in and started to get ready. And the Baby nurse came in also.  I was back to feeling calm and excited.  They got right to work and Bryson came in and sat next to me, holding me hand.  We were just talking and Dr. Boswell was narrating as she went a long. I felt the normal tugging and some movement on my tummy but couldn't feel anything.  Soon enough she said "okay here we go!" and Bryson stood up and watched her pull out Parker!! She held him up right away over the drape! He was screaming his head off!! And I just smiled!  The baby nurse stayed in the room and cleaned and checked Parker right away (we were never apart!) Parker Maxwell: 8.5lbs and 20 3/4 inches long! Bryson carried the bundled screaming baby over to me and placed him on my chest. I said "hi baby" and immediately he stopped crying. It was the sweetest thing! He just looked and looked at me. 

Welcome Parker!

Parker just stayed on my chest as Dr. Boswell finished the surgery.  She noticed a cyst on my ovary and said we would check on it at my next appointment in a few weeks.  It was acutally really quiet and calm in the operation room.  Bryson and I looked at Parker and talked with Carey.  After Dr. Boswell was done I was moved to the recovery room and was able to start the first feeding with Parker.  He didnt latch on but we decided to try again later.  Bryson brought in our first little visitor, Big Sister Violet.  I think she was scared of me because I was all hooked up to an IV and holding a little baby. But it was still sweet for just the 4 of us to be together and for her to be the first one to meet Parker. Eventually my parents and Bryson's came into recovery to meet Parker.

After two hours in recovery they moved me up the 25th floor to my post-pardom room. I got a little sick after riding the elevator, but after drinking some water I felt a lot better.  My face was feeling really itchy and I was sweating off and on (the side effects to the medicine in the spinal) We were visited that night by Kim and Kimmy, The Espi's, my parents with Violet and Bryson's family.  We really had a 4 night stay in the hospital.  The next day the Eachos and Lindsey visited. That was really the extent of non-family visitors. With Violet we had a ton a visitors and realized this time we only wanted a few. Our 3 night stay at the hosptial was really low key and relaxing. Lots of cuddling with Parker, naps and re-learning the art of breast-feeding. Bryson was so helpful since I was unable to get up and down right away.  I stayed on top of taking my pain meds and recovered smoothly.  The most eventful event of the hopstial stay was my 28 staples.  All the nurses had never seen so many staples on a c-section! I felt proud :)  We were so ready on the 4th day to checkout and begin life at home as a family of 4. 

Mother's Day

We enjoyed a very relaxing mother's day! It was fun to spend the day with my family, my parents and Betty. The day included church, lunch cooked by my dad, a nap, playing at the park and pho for dinner.

Though everyday has its challenges, I love being a mom! Children are such a blessing and a huge reminder how much God loves us has is children.

6 weeks

Wow! Six weeks with two kids has flown by.  It has definitely been a learning experience but really good at the same time.  There have been many days that we have all had cabin fever and then days that we are glad we are home. I'm just thankful some how that both kids have taken naps the same time every day! (Thank you Jesus!) Though the six weeks have gone by fast here are some highlights (that I can remember):

Week One:
-We were in the hospital for 4 days and very well taken care of by the staff at St. Luke's, but we couldn't wait to get home.
-Compared to our over abundant guests with Violet, we were visited by a few friends and enjoyed our down time in the hospital.
-Violet didn't want anything to do with me or Parker....sad and funny at the same time.
-I had 28 staples with my c section (I'll spare you the photos on here :) Birth Story in process..
-We came home to a clean house and a home cooked meal from my parents. We missed Violet so much and were so glad to be home as a family of 4.
-Bryson and Violet went to church while Parker and I napped

Week Two:
-Parker's one week appointment went great! he had gained ONE pound in 4 days! He's a big boy. So they went ahead with his 2 week appt too and told us to come back in a month.
-I was starting to feel better and took short walks.
-Thankful Parker is such a good sleeper so far.
-Violet started to like me again and slept a lot better at night.
-I had my mom and some friends come help me this week. 
-My college girlfriends came to visit and we all went to lunch Saturday. My first time away and it was wonderful to get out of the house for a little bit.
-We ALL went to church. Everyone thought we were crazy, but it was just the normal thing to do.

Week 3:
-This was my first week by myself. It went better than expected and enjoyed the days alone with just the kids.
-My sister had her baby. Ameila Rose!! So exciting, but wish we could live closer so we could visit.
-Went to Jake's 2nd bday party at the park as a family.
-Parker slept through the Easter service at church and Bryson cooked us steak for dinner.
-Realized having two kids takes a lot of work getting in and out of the car while living in an apartment.

Week 4:
-Thankful for our Sunday School class setting up meals for us. I cooked us a dinner this week and it took FOREVER!
-Bryson's family came to visit at the end of the week. Lots of fun to have them. Violet got all her energy out. But having during the day an apartment of 4 kids was a little wild.
-We rode the train at Hermann Park.
-My nephew Cannon fell while they were here so they had to spend a few extra days here and a night at Texas Childrens. Everyone is fine, but it was scary.
-Took my first outing with BOTH kids to Target. Had to use the longest shopping cart ever built. Violet was a great helper, while Parker slept.
-Parker's one month: 11.5lbs (85%) and 22.8 inches (95%) Big boy
-Dinner with the Saxe's and Knips.  Again so nice to be out of the apartment and to let Violet run around in a backyard with friends!

Week 5:
-I feel like I'm getting the hang of having two kids. A lot of diapers need to be changed and sometimes you have to let one of the kids cry while you are helping the other.
-Parker likes to cluster feed at night, which helps him go to bed earlier, which means Bryson and I go to bed earlier too! Yay!
-Went to Cypress for the day for the first time and enjoyed a sushi lunch with my parents.
-Out to Dinner with some girlfriends
-Played at the park for InsideOut's bday party. Parker was awake for about 4 hours which is the longest in his whole life so far!

Week 6:
-Today was one of those days that nothing goes the way you planned. Both kids crying while sitting on my lap.  I had to take it one step (and breath) at a time. 
-Trying to figure out how and when to go grocery shopping. I've been a few times in the evenings by myself...maybe I'll stick to that!



Every day is different.  It has been a lot easier with a second child since I know a little better what I am doing then with the first child. We are thankful we have family near by that have been so helpful. And friends to stop by to check on us.  It's an adjustment, but we are loving it!

Baby blur

I promise I'll be back soon! I actually really want to blog, just haven't found the time.

See ya later.

What did you eat today?

I think it is interesting what people eat. I'm always curious to know, mostly so I could have some fresh ideas in my own meals.

So to entertain myself and my blog readers I documented what I ate today.

Breakfast: Waffle and fruit
Lunch: tuna, pretzels, grapes, string cheese and carrots
Snack: yogurt and a banana muffin (not pictured)
Dinner: Beef stroganoff, veggies and toast
Dessert: Brownie

Appetite

So I'm 14 days post pregnancy and have lost 20lbs (normal). But my appetite has definitely picked up, if not bigger than when I was pregnant! I forgot how hungry you get from nursing all day long! Plus we've had so many friends and my parents bring us delicious meals! I'm not complaining at all!

My goal before Parker turns one is to be back at pre-pregnancy weight. And once the doctor clears me to do more than just walking (4-6 weeks) I'll workout. But until then I'm going to enjoy the blessings of food :)

Alone

Today was my first half day by myself with Violet and Parker. I was a little nervous how it was all going to "work" together. I was mostly concerned with how to give attention to Violet. But she did wonderful this morning!

My mom came over to take us on a small grocery trip ( I can't drive for another week...) and it as my first outing out of the house! (besides going on walks) yay! Due to the excitement of grandma coming over (and the lawn care men mowing) V did not take a nap at her normal time. Thankfully 10 mins after my mon left I had 2 sleeping children!! It was a wonderful 15 min! (bc then Parker had to nurse)

I attempted to fix dinner, which thankfully most of it was cooked already. The Newmans brought us fried rice and I heated up tofu and lumpia. It was all delicious!

It felt good and normal today. I even managed to put on mascara :)

One week

It's been one week since we had Parker! And it has flown by! We had a really relaxing 3 night stay in the hospital. We were a lot less fearful and anxious with a second child. With Violet we had no idea what we were doing! But with Parker we felt so much more confident with infant care, breast-feeding and overall recovery.

I was so happy to be back at home starting life as a family of four. also We really missed Violet while we stayed in the hospital! We knew she was perfectly fine with my parents and in laws but only seeing her for 30 mins everyday was a tease. She is adjusting to her new role as a big sister.

My recovery has been really smooth compared to my first csection. The first day was rough and painful as expected. I had major drug withdrawals from the anatheseia. I had the sweats and my face itched like crazy! I was able to start standing and walking (slowly) 24 hrs after surgery. My incision is healing nicely after the 28 (yes 2-8) staples were removed. It still burns and is sore from time to time but ibuprofen and Vicodin have helped with that. It's hard because I can't lift anything more than 10lbs and have a busy 2 year old. But thankfully I have some help this week.

Parker has been such a sweet baby. He has been nursing every 3 hours and sleeps most of the time. His one week appt was today. At birth he weighed 8lb 5oz, when we left the hospital on Thursday he had lost some weight and was 7lb 10. Well today thanks to mommas milk he is 8lb 10oz! Thats a whole pound in 4 days! The doctor went ahead and completed his 2 week appointment as well since he is doing so well! They also said at night we no longer have to wake him up to nurse (amen) so everyone can have longer night time sleep!

We are thankful for all our friends and family praying, visiting, loving and feeding us well during this time!

39 weeks

Well this is it...2 days until the csection! I'm nervous and excited at the same time. Nervous because I know recovery is hard, but I'm more prepared this time. Excited to finally meet this little boy thats has growing and moving inside me! Here are some updates:

-Size of baby: a mini watermelon! He's been super low the past couple of weeks, so I absolutely feel like I'm carrying a watermelon!
-By the end of the day all I want to do is lay on my side. The extra weight makes my back sore and my upper stomach ache.
-We finished and hung up the mobile this week. I love how it turned out! It wad a lot fun for both of us to work on it together! The little side of Violets's current room is the nursery is sorta "travel" themed. Bryson is working on a couple of drawings to hang up in there.
-Wedding rings came off this week. They were itching really bad and getting hard to take off.
-I've been a cleaning machine this week. I really enjoy cleaning and the feeling of my home being clean. So getting one last good clean in felt great and productive.
-This week has been really relaxing. We've had a few plans with friends I the evenings, but mostly our days have been chill. Violet and I have been soaking in our last days just the two of us. She has been so sweet helping be set up baby things. She even "holds" baby boys hand when we pray.
-Speaking of Violet, she definitely knows her brother is on his way soon. She has been waking up a lot this week in the middle of the night wandering into our room. She eventually goes back to sleep in her own bed, but still out of her character. She has been chewing a lot on toys and her hands so maybe her two year molars are coming in...
-Today my sister is 39 weeks pregnant too! I can't wait to meet my new niece/nephew soon!
-I went through/ate a whole bottle of Tums this past week. My heart burn/acid reflux has been awful, especially at night.
-I finally treated myself to a pedicure today! It was AMAZING! and all the ladies were so sweet asking about my belly/baby! They said this is a good luck year to have a baby boy :)

Well we are so excited and appreciate all the prayers from friends and family!