Our Growing Garden

123 Cloth Me Cloth Diaper Review and Giveaway

2012-01-26T23:27:00.000-06:00

I have recently started sewing my own cloth diapers and while doing research on a cloth diaper sewing forum, I met Laura, the creator and work at home mama behind 123 Cloth Me.

Laura has always had a passion for knitting and crocheting and was interested in making her own cloth diapers for her daughter and friends' children after the birth of her daughter in 2011. Laura has created her own cloth diaper pattern that features a third hip snap for tall and thin babies, a wide bottom to catch every single mess, a more relaxed and loosed elastic to accommodate larger babies, and ten different snap settings and long wings to fit your individual child.

There are two types of absorbent microfiber inserts to choose from for pocket diapers. The first one is a three plush layers of microfiber serged together and secondly, a single plush layer of microfiber that can be tri-folded and stuffed into a pocket diaper. For her all in two's, Laura makes a turned and topstitiched heavy bamboo fleece style snake style insert.

Aside from giving me some valuable cloth diaper sewing tips, Laura offered to let me review one of her super cute diapers. I was so excited to receive this amazingly crafted scrappy diaper:

photo from 123 Cloth Me

I had never seen a scrappy diaper before and was so impressed that she sewed all the fabric squares together first and then created a diaper from them! I love this print because it reminds me of a tropical vacation. This is a pocket style diaper with a waterproof PUL (polyurethane laminate) hidden inner layer. The inside is made of luxurious crushed panne and is super soft against baby's bottom. And if I can be quite frank, poop rolls off of this type of fabric very cleanly, which is always a plus! Laura sent us a bamboo fleece snake style soaker for the insert and I found it very absorbent. It is longer than the length of the diaper so that it can be folded with more bulk in the front for a boy or folded with more back for a girl for maximum absorbency. This diaper left no red marks on my son's thighs and the amount of snaps really helped us a get a great fit for his individual size.

Here is James playing in his new 123 Cloth Me scrappy diaper:

Overall, I find this diaper to be excellent. I have a cute print on the outside, a comfortable fabric on the inside, a highly absorbent soaker and a hidden layer of waterproof material to contain all the messes. I love that this product was created by a work at home mom and buy supporting her, I am supporting her goals and dreams as well.

Buy It:

You can purchase a cloth diaper from 123 Cloth Me at Laura's Hyena Cart store. You will have to register for a Hyena Cart account first, which is free and easy. Register here.

Laura offers a wide variety of diaper options to choose from including one size pocket diapers, one size all in two's, custom cloth diapers, and a variety of soakers/inserts to choose from. Prices range from $16-$22.50. Use code OGGfreeship at checkout for free shipping.

Win it!

Laura is generously offering a chance for one reader to win a CUSTOM scrappy diaper or rufflebutt diaper! You have seen the example of the scrappy above, but what is a rufflebutt you ask? Oh, just this:

I know. You just died from diaper cuteness overload right? (and I am thisclose to putting ruffles on my son's bum).

You will need to open the post (click the title) for the full Rafflecopter widget to appear. Once you complete the mandatory entry, additional entries will become available. This giveaway will begin January 27, 2012 and close February 2, 2012 and is open to US and Canada. Good luck!

I received a sample of the giveaway product free of charge for reviewing purposes.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Doo Dee Doo: Big Brother is special too!

2012-01-25T00:52:00.000-06:00

After we found out that James is having a little brother yesterday, we went to the next city over to celebrate. I went to Hancock to get some new fabric for cloth diaper making.Then we had dinner at Outback where James got to try his first cheese fries and we discovered he likes cucumbers too. My husband and I decided that we wanted to make him feel special on this big day too, so we headed to the toy store to get him a present.

He picked out a Chuggington Wooden Railway and oh my goodness, he sure does love it! It's a great activity for Daddy and Toddler to play together. I'm pretty sure my husband had as much fun as James did.

James says choo choo! at the very beginning of the video!

IT'S A...

2012-01-23T22:26:00.001-06:00

Our little boy is perfectly healthy and measuring a whole week ahead! Baby weighed an estimated 12 ounces and is 17.3 cm (6.8 in) long.

We are so happy! I cannot wait to have TWO little boys!!

Dear Little Baby,

2012-01-22T15:06:00.000-06:00

Dear Little Baby,

It's me, your mommy, you know the one who has been feeding you nothing but orange juice and Reese's lately. Tomorrow we get to see you again. I am so looking forward to seeing you wiggle and squirm. Counting down the hours, actually. I am filled with excitement, a little bit of anxiety (will we switch bedrooms with big brother so you can have the big closet or will you share?) and peace. Last time with your big brother on this day, I was very nervous. This time, I am fairly calm and can feel God's presence and just trusting Him that you will be a perfectly healthy little squish. I can't believe my pregnancy is almost halfway over and that the "blissfully ignorant" stage is about to end and the exciting stage of name picking and nursery planning is about to begin. If you are a little girl, we have your name picked out already! If you are a little boy, we have a few options on the table. Will you be all recessive traits and look like me? Or have dark hair and eyes like Daddy? Whoever you are, I know that you are perfect. And mine. Ours. You have a Mommy and Daddy who adore you and will love you until our hearts overflow and a big brother who will teach you animal sounds and how to use the subwoofer to climb onto the back of the loveseat.

I am filled with joy to see who you are tomorrow and to start preparing a whole little world for you. My heart is just bursting with excitement. We love you so much, little baby.

Love, Mommy

Steppin' Out Saturday Maternity Edition

2012-01-21T10:03:00.002-06:00

I never do these posts but I decided that I should document at least once in my pregnancy where I felt somewhat fashionable (ie. not wearing boring clothes from Motherhood Maternity).

Everything I am wearing, I already had in my closet pre-pregnancy. I was getting SO sick of wearing those four striped/solid colored maternity shirts over and over again. So I was creative and this is what I came up with. And ohmigosh, WHY haven't I been wearing tights and dresses all along? SO comfy and no tugging at loose maternity jeans all night. This was Wednesday night for our small group bible study.

Cardigan: Old Navy

Dress: Max Studio

Tights: Victoria's Secret

Boots: Gianni Bini

Jewelry: Tiffany heart necklace, Stella and Dot bracelet

Linking up with Steppin' Out Saturday.

Freebie Find! Free Tiny Prints Valentine's Card until midnight

2012-01-20T17:52:00.000-06:00

Tiny Prints is offering one free Valentine's Day card today only!

Head on over to their Facebook page for the promo code.

I am getting this one for my husband from James :)

So I have a new hobby...cloth diaper making!

2012-01-20T07:41:00.001-06:00

I think we all know how I feel about cloth diapers. I have developed a full fledged obsession. So I decided to take it to the next level and oh, how I have been having fun.

I won't post a pic of my very first attempt because it is truly embarrassing considering it was basically my first time sitting down at a sewing machine. But I will show you cloth diaper attempt number two!

I thought a farm scene on a booty would be hilariously cute.

This is a fitted diaper I made using the Sprout Snap pattern. It isn't waterproof, but with a quilted prefold I already have, I can get a good 2.5-3 hours out of it. I plan on making a hidden layer of PUL in the future.

The outer is a woven print. The hidden inner is one layer of needled cotton, mostly to provide reinforcement for the snaps, and the inner is brown crushed panne.

I think I did a pretty good job! And it actually WORKS.

But of course, I had some help:

Mama, let me show you how to thread this thing.

Now let's talk snaps.

and of course the giant kisses my baby so willingly gives are super helpful!

And here is a sneak peak at what I am working on now!

Why it'd be fun to have a girl...

2012-01-19T08:22:00.000-06:00

As a mom of a boy, I kind of want another boy, but I kind of want a girl too. Having been a boy mom for a year and half, ...it's just magical. I think a boy mom can only understand what I mean. And I would love to have a little brother for James to grow up with but to have a daughter? It's kind of hard for me to imagine. I can see myself raising only boys but we will see what God has planned for us. Because it could be a little girl.

But it's probably a boy.

But just in case, I've already decorated her nursery. In my head, of course.

I LOVE this Tiffany Blue and Pink nursery. It makes me swoon. I love every little bit about it:

Source: themagicofmama.com via OGG on Pinterest

I love that it is not the standard pink walls and floral pink bed set. I love that it is only accents of pink. And blue is actually my favorite color.

I just think this mama did a fantastic job. You can drool over her nursery post with me here.

Source: themagicofmama.com via OGG on Pinterest

Too

I love, love, love this button art from Letter Perfect Designs. I would have it matching the nursery though.

Source: etsy.com via OGG on Pinterest

I am obsessed with the framed fabric in this nursery. You could have SO MUCH FUN with this project!

Source: chiccheapnursery.com via OGG on Pinterest

These pillows from Buffalovely are gorgeous and so fun for a baby girl.

Source: etsy.com via OGG on Pinterest

The subway art with her name and date in there somewhere would be fantastic.

Source: lilluna.com via OGG on Pinterest

I love how there are actual fabric flowers pinned on the wall!

Source: google.com via Melissa on Pinterest

Too much pretty! SO as you can see, I love the Tiffany-Robin's egg blue walls with pink and floral accents. How did you decorate your baby girl's nursery? Did you do traditional? Or a little unconventional?

18 weeks pregnant!

2012-01-17T23:02:00.001-06:00

Didn't I *just* write a belly post like yesterday? Time is FLYING. Cannot believe I am almost halfway through with this pregnancy. And in five days? I will know if it's a baby boy or girl!

I was astounded last time at 18 weeks that this is what my baby looks like at this point:

That baby is huge.

I have really started to feel uncomfortable lately. My belly is starting to get in the way. I hate putting on socks and shoes because my belly gets smushed now. And if I squat, I have this weird pressure in my umm, birthing regions. I have been having really frequent headaches and wincing pain, so that is something to bring up Monday since I was induced for pre-eclampsia last time. The only thing I am aware of that I can do is drink water and stay active. The toddler takes care of the active part.

Here is the belleh at 18 weeks:

I officially have a belly shelf, best used for food items and toddler chairs.

look at those toes!

I love how Blogger likes to significantly reduce the quality of the image. I mean really. That's awesome.

18 week Quiz:

-How far along? 18w3d

-How big is baby? Huge!! The size of sweet potato. About 5.5"
-Weight gain/loss? 141 lb. I have only gained two pounds despite my love affair with Ben and Jerry's.
-Maternity clothes? All the time.
-Stretchies? Um, yeah, pretty sure there is a new one by my KNEE.
-Sleep? I miss sleeping on my back. And I have been SO exhausted lately. I fell asleep for an hour and half on the couch last night while hubs and James played. Loudly. With the tv on. And I slept like a "baby." <---now that I know that saying is a total lie.
-Best moment this week? Sewing my first cloth diaper!
-Movement? lots of kicks and can see kicks from the OUTSIDE now!
-Food cravings? Still really nothing. I want a craving!
-Gender? I've gone back to thinking boy.
-Labor signs? Well, i wouldn't call this an impending labor sign, but tons of Braxton Hicks contractions this week. They make me feel woozy.
-Belly button in or out? getting more and more shallow.
-What I miss? not much. Although I'd love to share in all that wine my friends are drinking! ;)
-What I am looking forward to? Seeing the baby and finding out the sex in FIVE days!
-Weekly wisdom? Brother LS 2125 sewing machines are crap.
-Milestones? Seeing baby move from the outside!

Place Your Bets! Is Baby #2 a boy or girl!?

2012-01-16T14:45:00.001-06:00

My anatomy scan is in ONE WEEK. I cannot believe this time next week, I will know who is there inside me! Ahh!

Time to vote! What do you think baby G #2 is? Here are a few facts to help you make your choice. The poll is posted in the top right side bar.

Chinese Gender Chart: Boy (was correct for James)
Shettles method: Boy
Morning sickness is much better compared to last pregnancy.
Fetal heartrate: 150's
I'm all belly and carrying low (I think, what do you think?):
Craving orange juice. Hate hamburgers- loved them with James.
Dry hands
Clearer skin
increased clumsiness
do not look pregnant from behind
slowed leg hair growth. I only have to shave once a week and I am barely prickly! Same as last time.
No linea negra yet! I already had it at this point with James.
Dad is not gaining with Mom this time. And neither is mom really...still just barely breaking even.
Age at conception plus number of the month we conceived is an even number (25+9=34) = boy
Dad's intuition: strong boy
Mom's intuition: umm, very wishy washy, but I'll go with girl? but that makes me think it's a boy. No strong feeling either way. I change my mind. It's a boy.

What do you think?

I think my blog is trying to kill itself...

2012-01-13T12:54:00.003-06:00

::looks around::

WHISKEY. TANGO. FOXTROT.

Thanks photo bucket for replacing my design with your super cute upgrade to pro today image.

Sigh. I've contacted my designer to see if she can help. Otherwise? I've had a new paper picked out for awhile anyway!

Update: As you can see, I have been playing around and looks like I have a new weekend project!

Wish me luck?

Cheap Eats Meal Plan

2012-01-12T16:18:00.000-06:00

So within our new budget is a $100/week grocery plan. If we stick to this, we can pay off credit cards considerably faster. The first three weeks have been an adjustment, meaning we went over $100 every time. Like the first time was $200. Fail.

So this week? I am aiming below $100 to make up for it. It will be hard but with some strategic planning I think I can make it work. I'll let you know how I did.

What's on the menu this week?

1.) Ham
-small ham
-can collard greens
-cornbread
-maybe another veggie out of the freezer

2.) Chinese Chicken Stir Fried Rice

Source: allrecipes.com via OGG on Pinterest

-chicken
-eggs
-frozen veggies already in freezer

3.) 15 Bean Soup
-use ham from 1.)
-bean soup package

4.) Chicken n' Pasta
-chicken
-use soup mix already have

5.) Taco Chicken Bowl

Source: budgetbytes.blogspot.com via OGG on Pinterest

-chicken
-salsa
-black beans
-frozen corn
-cheddar
-cilantro

Lunches:
1.) Ramen (Baby #2 is a little addicted to it via umbilical cord)

2.) Curried Chickpeas NOM.

Source: budgetbytes.blogspot.com via OGG on Pinterest

3.) leftovers

I have a brownie mix for dessert already this week. We need a few other essentials like milk, juice, fruit, and some baby meals but other than that? Not much to buy this week!

We'll see how I do money wise and if any of the meals were really good. Who wants to guess what I'll spend? What is your weekly grocery budget? Do you stick to it?

WW: Up Close and Personal

2012-01-10T19:53:00.000-06:00

James has recently discovered that the coffee table can also serve as a closer "seating area" for the tv. The reason the coffee table is pushed against the tv console? To keep little fingers off the screen. Yeah, not so much. Must find new solution.

Here he is watching BabyFirst TV about a foot away from the screen:

Mom, this is perfect.

He reaches out to try to PET the animals.

crazy how he just hops right off now.

And? If you were wondering about the objects in the foreground. Why yes, that would be a dinosaur with a chicken nugget on its' tail and a sippy of milk inside a Christmas tin.

17 weeks pregnant!

2012-01-09T15:48:00.002-06:00

I have been so bad about keeping this pregnancy updated with my weekly posts. I guess that's what happens when you have a toddler to care for the second time around!

Here's the belleh at 17w1d.

scarf: Ralph Lauren
tank and top: Motherhood
skinny jeans: Motherhood
boots: Old Navy

How far along? 17w3d.

Weight gain/loss? 139.5 lb, so half a pound. I'm surprised I haven't gained yet with all the ice cream I've been eating.

Maternity clothes? I'm pretty much completely in maternity now. I love my maternity skinny jeans I have on in the pic above. No more shoving fat jeans into boots!

Stretchies? no new ones.

Sleep? pretty good. Just up twice a night to pee and drink water.

Breastfeeding? James is officially "dry nursing" or getting some colostrum. But for all nutritive purposes, he is fully on cow's milk. Just this week, breastfeeding has become painful. The latch burns and just about makes me cry. So that's just great. ::note sarcasm::

Best moment this week? Buying all the supplies needed to start making my own cloth diapers!

Movement? YES! Lots of kicks and pokes! I can now feel baby from the outside with my hand!

Food cravings? I really like that Baja salad from Wendy's. <--- still this. Had one last night for dinner. I have slowed down a bit on the orange juice consumption. I've been eating alot of Ben and Jerry's but really, no true cravings right now. I'm definitely eating healthier this pregnancy.

Gender? maybe a girl? maybe a boy? no clue. Sometimes I think it's a girl because how different this pregnancy has been, but mostly because I want to make girly diapers ;) I will be completely thrilled and shocked either way.

Labor signs? none.

Belly button in or out? getting shallower.

What I miss? not much, feeling pretty good right now!

What I am looking forward to? anatomy scan in two weeks!

Weekly wisdom? Apparently my body is dependent on the 2 mg of Zofran I am still taking (that's a quarter of the pill). The one day I tried without it, I was puking again.

Milestones? Feeling the baby from the outside!

Oh hai.

2012-01-06T22:33:00.000-06:00

It's Friday night (thank you Jesus) and I haven't even looked at my blog since umm, Tuesday? Which is unheard of for me because I am a wee bit obsessed. So it's good that I took some time for me and didn't worry over dumb blog stuff. See? I'm following through with a resolution! And that would be to stop getting caught up in the blogpetition of mom blogs. I also removed Top Mommy Blogs and Top Baby Blogs, so no more desperate pleas for votes to "rank" myself. I don't need a number to know that my space here is worthy, at least to me.

I turned 26 yesterday. It was a really nice birthday. James took me out for lunch to get my favorite Caprese chicken wrap and strawberry Italian soda. I let him have A SIP and he decided it was way too delicious to give back to me. He may have had a good 4 ounces of strawberry Italian soda. Umm, at least there was fruit in it right?

After lunch, we went to the park where James got to play with some other toddlers. I was perfectly content to sit on a bench in the 70 degree weather (yes, be jealous) and sip a hazelnut latte and watch my little boy squeal and go down the BIG slide by himself.

what??!!

We had one of our best couple friends over that night and grilled steaks and played board games. James got to play with his little friends too. My hubs made twice baked potatoes- they were REALLY good. I may have gotten up at 1 am to finish them off ;) It was a really nice birthday!

I actually got all dressed up yesterday but only took one Instagram. But? I'm totally wearing the same outfit again tomorrow, so I will be sure to take a full length pic in my birthday outfit because I felt pretty stinkin' cute in it ;) Maybe I should put forth more effort, more often. It's worth the extra 30 minutes to feel good about yourself.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Toddler Activities Outside the House (aka we're getting cabin fever)

2012-01-03T07:47:00.003-06:00

Now that James is getting a bit older (17 months today!), he is also getting bored with just hanging out at home with mom and his toys. So I am trying to find some new activities that involve being out of the house and with other children for us to participate in.

Mom, I think I could live with visiting the zoo weekly.

So far we have a playdate about once a week with my friend and her 4 year old, 2 year old, and 7 month old. We also attend story time at the library once a week. But even at story time, he is in my lap and doesn't have much chance to play other kids while there (because they are supposed to be quiet, said in best nasaly librarian voice) We go to church on Sundays but his interaction with other children is pretty limited there.

I have signed us up for a free trial of a baby gym class. I am scared it's not going to be as I hope though. The person I talked to on the phone said they usually have 3 or 4 kids a class and the age range is 18 months to 3 years. So it kind of sounds like a hit or miss.

Then there is Kindermusik, which we did a month trial of last May, but it runs $210 a semester. Pretty pricey but I haven't ruled it out.

We go to the park about once a week. It's a quiet park near my house though and there are rarely other children there.

So my question is, what activities does your toddler participate in outside the home?

Easy Crockpot Spaghetti Sauce

2012-01-02T15:18:00.003-06:00

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Mmm...homemade spaghetti sauce. Few things smell more heavenly to me than the scent of spaghetti sauce with just a wee bit of sweetness drifting through the house. I used to think it would take a lot of time to make homemade spaghetti sauce. And when I did it the long, hard, way...it did take a long time. But I am going to show you how you can get a savory spaghetti sauce with about 15 minutes of prep and let your crockpot do the rest. It'll taste like you spent hours slaving over the stove!

My recipe for homemade spaghetti sauce that I have developed over the years from snippets from recipes here and there is actually more like a gravy consistency if you let it cook long enough. It's a little spicy and a little sweet. I'll even share my secret ingredient with you!

Here's what you'll need:

Ingredients:
1 lb Italian sausage mild
1 onion chopped
3-4 garlic cloves minced
1 small package fresh mushrooms (optional)
28 ounces canned diced tomato
12 ounces canned tomato paste
30 ounces canned tomato sauce
2 c. water
3 teaspoons basil
2 teaspoons dried parsley
1 TBSP brown sugar
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon coarse ground black pepper
*secret ingredient* liberal dash of cinnamon
1/2 c. red wine (optional but strongly recommended)
1 lb. spaghetti
Parmesan

*You can add a dash of baking soda into the sauce while it's cooking to cut down on the sauce acidity.

Directions:

1.) Brown the sausage in a little olive oil before placing in a greased crockpot. Sometimes? I skip this step, since the crockpot will be on for 6 hours.

2.) Dump everything in crockpot. Let crockpot work it's magic.

3.) Cook on high for about 6 hours. Told ya it was easy.

4.) Serve over hot cooked spaghetti noodles.

Your crock should look like this after you've dumped everything in:

And 6 hours later, you will be greeted with this:

And it's amazing. Adapted from Jo Mama.

My New Year's Goals for 2012

2012-01-01T19:22:00.000-06:00

1.) Continue to improve as a mother and wife with a focus on applying biblical womanhood (respect, nurture, reassure, affirm others)

2.) Read 25 books in one year.

3.) Develop a homekeeping schedule that works well with my life and stick to it. I'm currently trying out a few different things.

4.) Stick to our new budget that my husband and I developed last week. Cook more meals, eat out way less, utilize energy saving methods at home, exercise my source of extra income, shift our diet towards healthier foods.

5.) Get James and myself out of the house more! James and I are doing a free trial of a baby gym program Tuesday.

6.) Get our yard in better shape- save for fence, seed again, back flowerbeds.

7.) Grow more food in the spring/summer. I was quite proud of my basil and Roma tomatoes last year ;)

8.) Research more about homeschooling and start applying methods with James. Develop more structure for our day with more educational activities.

9.) Relax and enjoy my time in the newborn period and not let worry eat me alive.

10.) Learn to sew.

What are your goals this year?

2011: An Amazing Year.

2011-12-30T21:50:00.000-06:00

2011 was a pretty awesome year in the Garden household!

January:
We took our chubby monkey 5 month old to the park for the first time where he also went down the slide for the first time too!

February was life changing for me as I overcame a major breastfeeding hurdle and went from eating just a few things to being able to eat a normal diet again. My growing six month old also started solids!

and started playing with Daddy's toys!

In March we welcomed Spring by spending time playing outside.

I also was welcomed back to fertility. We switched James to the convertible carseat. And James scared the crap out of us by pooping.

In April James celebrated his first Easter!

In May, James said his first word and started walking! It was a big month for milestones! He also attended Kindermusik.

In June, we started cloth diapering, James started his crazy high chair antics, and celebrated our three year wedding anniversary.

In July. your silly and charming personality really started coming out.

In August, we celebrated you first birthday!

In September, you started eating at the table, we got our Boba carrier,

and we recorded our "Ordinary Day:

In October, we found out you were going to be a BIG BROTHER!

and you were a sweet little raffy for Halloween.

In November, we took a trip to our hometown,

and we saw baby #2 for the first time!

In December, we visited grandparents again and celebrated your second Christmas.

What an amazing year it has been! We have grown so much as a family and I so look forward to all there is to come in 2012!

Hello, I'm Kristin and I am an orangejuiceaholic.

2011-12-30T14:36:00.001-06:00

I have become that crazy pregnant woman. I'm pretty sure last nights chain of events formally qualifies me as so.

I have always liked orange juice and bought it on a pretty regular basis. Two days ago, my husband and I were watching Twin Peaks in bed and Agent Cooper had a glass of orange juice at breakfast. It started then. My eyes grew wide and my mouth watered at the sight of it. I thought, I'll get some tomorrow.

And I did. And it was THE BEST THING I EVER TASTED. I may have drank an entire jug of Simply Orange Pineapple in less than 36 hours. By myself.

I finished my last glass at about 4:00 pm yesterday and knew I would need more soon. By 10:00 pm that night my craving had grown to what I suspect like when a junkie needs their drugs. So I somewhat excitedly did my hair and put on some sweats and casually told my husband "I have to go get something." I tell him that I need orange juice within the next 10 minutes or I will die. In any case, I wouldn't have been able to go to sleep. He thinks I'm bluffing.

"Babe. You're crazy. I'm not going to Wal-Mart at 10:30"

Um, who said you were? I go put my shoes on and grab the keys. This orange juice is SERIOUS BUSINESS.

He begrudgingly pulls himself away from the Xbox and goes to the bathroom to change clothes. "I wasn't trying to get you to go. See? I DID MY HAIR." (<--- that's how he can know I'm serious) and I was. He responds with "You know I am not going to let my small, pregnant, helpless wife go wandering around a dark parking lot." (score).

Best husband ever. Let's just say we both went to sleep happy last night ;)

Toddler Breakfast Menu and Schedule

2011-12-29T14:18:00.000-06:00

James is like me. He kind of hates breakfast. I am just not hungry in the morning and neither is he. Used to, I had the excuse that he was simply filling up on breastmilk. Now, I really doubt he is filling up on the teaspoon of colostrom he may be getting.

I'll have Twizzlers for breakfast okay? Thanks.

Recently, he has started sleeping in until 9:30 am (I know, hate me) instead of waking at 8:00 am. Waking up later kind of screws up all his eating times. What I had been doing was letting him nurse if he wants to when he first wakes, and then serving him breakfast and milk or pediasure right afterwards. Breakfast is usually cereal, fruit, fried egg and cheese, yogurt, silver dollar pancakes, bacon, or some baked good. He eats breakfast in the living room at the coffee table because ~~he is spoiled~~ he has a fit in his high chair or booster that early and I just don't want to fight him. Usually he only takes a few bites but never has what I call a full breakfast. And it just sets up a bad eating routine for the rest of the day.

So, what I'm thinking is make him wait a little longer and let him work up an appetite. For example, he wakes, I let him nurse if he wants, then give a cup of milk and a handful of cheerios and then wait 45 minutes to an hour to give him something substantial. So that would be breakfast at 10:30 am, which would eliminate the 11:00 am snack, lunch around 12:30 pm, nap, snack about 30 minutes after nap, and supper at 6:30-7:30 pm, then bedtime snack.

So moms, I have a few questions for you:

1.) What time do you serve breakfast and how long is it after the child wakes up?

2.) What are some things you serve for breakfast? What are their favorites?

3.) Do you serve a snack before lunch?

Thanks for helping me figure this out :)

Why I love it when Christmas is finally over.

2011-12-28T14:16:00.000-06:00

There is something I love about the end of the Christmas season. Maybe it's the new goals and resolutions forming in my head or the stress of the holidays being over but there is something relieving about December 26th to me. And honestly, ever since I lost my Grandaddy in 2006, it's been really hard to get in the Christmas spirit. This is probably the best I have felt about that in the last five years especially having a toddler who can enjoy Christmas time and not being on some crazy restrictive diet. This was probably the first year I didn't dwell on him not being here, although it still hurts nonetheless. Don't get me wrong, I enjoy Christmas, but I think I might enjoy the period following just as much.

Back to my post...

I also love getting everything unpacked and put away. God, who doesn't? But the toys, the INSANE AMOUNT OF TOYS, unloaded straight into the dining room, scattered all over the living room, crayons behind the toilet for Pete's sake. I love getting that put the heck away. And the for lack of a better word, the weird gifts, you get? you know like that giant neon green serving plate shaped like a palm tree (yeahhh) and the six scarves and the framed portrait of a kitten? Just make the decision now. Don't let the things you don't like or won't use sit around and take up your valuable storage space. Just go ahead and toss or throw in the donate box. I feel a little guilty about it but not enough to keep me from being able to part with things we don't need.

this was like two square feet of the floor, the entire living room was like this! ::head explodes::

And I love getting back into our routine. Getting my Christmafied house clean again, no more pressure to make a turkey or make your mother in law's recipe for your husband and hope he likes it just as much, no more excuses to keep the toddler up until 10:00 pm. No more worrying about "how in the world are we going to afford all this?!" <--- We did pretty good financially this year due to some shamazing sales and DIY. For everyone's gifts, I would say about $300.

oh don't worry, there will be a post bragging about my DIY ornaments soon! ;)

But I think what I love about Christmas ending the most, is looking forward to the year ahead. What major life changes will happen this year? Will I finally stick to a cleaning schedule this year and finally become the mom and wife I expect myself to be? Will I stick to my reading goal? How will relationships form and grow? What all new things will my child learn this year? What big plans will we be making this year?

Anyone else enjoy Christmas being over? Oh and please share any speshull gifts you received!

Do I have to go back to real life?

2011-12-27T22:28:00.000-06:00

After a long Christmas vacation, eight days with my husband off work to be exact, real life must resume, I suppose. I got spoiled at my parents house the five days we visited. They took us out to eat, bathed James, let me sleep in. It was amazing. We headed back home Christmas eve to celebrate just the three of us. James got more toys from all his grandparents and great grandparents than should be humanly possible. I've been sorting through the "baby toys" today (only to unpack them in less than six months ;)

Here are just a few pics from our Christmas vacation! Enjoy.

The most adorable one first, Christmas morning, James with his new Jingle the Husky Pup.

Checking out all what Santa brought him:

Hey this is fun!

Now I can make pizza with Mommy!

the aftermath

Rewind to earlier in the week:

Hubs and my dad

pretty new bracelets

cowboy boots!

I don't have ANY pictures with hubs' family Christmas because they did it at 10:30 at night and James was NOT feeling it. So that's sad :/ Hubs got me some Chanel Chance, my fav perfume that I had run out of and that pretty Ralph Lauren scarf I posted a few weeks ago. I got him some ceramic Starbucks travel thermoses, RL boxers and pj's, some Smartwool socks, and something else I can't remember...

All in all, we had a great Christmas. There was a little fiasco where hubs got kicked out of Wal-Mart at 7:00 pm on Christmas Eve and we had like no food so I totally had to scrounge together Christmas dinner. Note to self: Christmas Eve is a bad day to travel home if you have zero groceries. But we made it work.

Now we are looking forward to another long weekend and spending some time with friends this weekend!

Santa Claus vs. Pregnant Woman

2011-12-23T07:43:00.004-06:00

source

I think many of us can verify that all these things are true ;)

How to really get rid of a toddler cold

2011-12-22T07:44:00.000-06:00

James got his real first cold this week. No fever or ear infection. Just the run of the mill snot faucet nose that turns into the never ending caked on, crustified booger concrete. Plus some super moodiness. I called our pediatrician and he said as long as he did not have fever, he did not need to come in and unfortunately, there was nothing he could take. After trying to quell about 50 tantrums in the span of two hours the first bad night, I gave him Tylenol thinking he could be cutting a tooth. Poor baby woke up all night the first 2-3 nights of the cold because he couldn't breathe. And also because he couldn't breathe through his nose? he couldn't nurse either, incidentally when he needs my antibodies the most. By day three, I had had enough of seeing my baby miserable and knew there had to be SOMETHING more I could do.

Welcome to my Toddler Cold Survival Kit:

Vicks Vaporizer with Night-Light

This thing is a godsend. After one night of this being on in James' room, he was considerably less stopped up the next day. I like that it shuts off automatically after the water reaches the minimum level and that it can run up to 24 hours.

Boogie Wipes

These hypoallergenic saline infused booger wipes gently lift the caked on mess around your child's nose. We had been using baby wipes but I SWEAR, these work so much better. They are also moisturizing to the sensitive, irritated skin around baby's nose.

Bulb Syringe Aspirator

I have used and boiled our good ol' bulb syringe daily for the past week. Funny thing is, James actually likes getting his nose sucked now! Silly boy leans in for it and will actually bring it to me to have his nose sucked! The best one I have ever used is our brown generic one from the hospital.

Vicks Vaporub Baby Rub Soothing Ointment, 1.76 oz

This really helped losen the mucus in his nose and he liked the little massage I gave him when we applied it to his chest.

Lasagna

I don't even know. We had it once this week thinking he might hate it. Umm? He loved it. He has had about half an adult serving for lunch everyday. The consensus? Sick toddlers need lasagna.

source

Plush Giraffe

This one specifically. He picked it out himself at the zoo shop and became totally attached to her. Sick babies need a little pick me up too!

Super Extra Mommy and Daddy Cuddles and extra cartoons

This is a given. We have spent alot of time cuddling on the couch watching Mickey and Chugginton.

So there you have it. My conventional and not so conventional items in my toddler cold arsenal. Just make your sweetie as comfortable as possible and shower him with lots of extra love and kisses. I really believe that a mommy's loving can heal. What else can you add to the list?

14 weeks! and BABY FLUTTERS!

2011-12-21T14:07:00.000-06:00

This week has been great. I am feeling really good aside from a few headaches and bouts of bowel sluggishness. And? I STARTED FEELING THE BABY MOVE!!!!! Last week, I thought I had started to feel tiny flutters and noted it but decided not to say "this is it" yet. Well, those little flutters kept on happening and the last time I checked, I have never had gas bubbles near my pubic bone. Then just a few days after I started feeling flutters, I started feeling definite TAPS!! AHH, so exciting!! I have been feeling the baby everyday, several times a day now. It really is the most amazing feeling! And it is true what they say, you feel the second baby sooner. I felt James right at 16 weeks and this baby at 13 weeks.

14 week baby bump

How far along? 14w5d.

Weight gain/loss? I weighed 138 today. Still no weight gain overall but up a pound from two weeks ago.

Maternity clothes? I bought two new pairs of maternity jeans and they are fitting alot better. I think my other pair is just too stretched out from my first pregnancy. I also wear a belly band over them to keep them up. I'm in a mixture of ruched maternity shirts and regular tops.

Stretchies? no new ones.

Sleep? Better than it was. I am managing to get to bed earlier but am still getting up at least twice a night to pee.

Breastfeeding? James is officially "dry nursing" or getting some colostrum. But for all nutritive purposes, he is fully on cow's milk.

Best moment this week? Feeling the baby

Movement? YES! Flutters and taps!

Food cravings? I really like that Baja salad from Wendy's.

Gender? I wrote "It's a Boy!" on James' new magnadoodle. But honestly, I don't know.

Labor signs? none.

Belly button in or out? getting shallower.

What I miss? not much, feeling pretty good right now!

What I am looking forward to? anatomy scan NEXT MONTH.

Weekly wisdom? More water = easier pooping.

Milestones? Feeling the baby!

What's going on this week with baby: His week's big developments: Your baby can now squint, frown, grimace, pee, and possibly suck his thumb! Thanks to brain impulses, his facial muscles are getting a workout as his tiny features form one expression after another. His kidneys are producing urine, which he releases into the amniotic fluid around him — a process he'll keep up until birth. He can grasp, too, and if you're having an ultrasound now, you may even catch him sucking his thumb.

In other news: Your baby's stretching out. From head to bottom, he measures 3 1/2 inches — about the size of a lemon — and he weighs 1 1/2 ounces. His body's growing faster than his head, which now sits upon a more distinct neck. By the end of this week, his arms will have grown to a length that's in proportion to the rest of his body. (His legs still have some lengthening to do.) He's starting to develop an ultra-fine, downy covering of hair, called lanugo, all over his body. Your baby's liver starts making bile this week — a sign that it's doing its job right — and his spleen starts helping in the production of red blood cells. Though you can't feel his tiny punches and kicks yet, your little pugilist's hands and feet (which now measure about 1/2 inch long) are more flexible and active. -babycenter.com

When a toy giraffe is worth $130 {Guest Poster: Baby Shmizz}

2011-12-20T08:14:00.001-06:00

Today I am letting one of my e-bff's Shannon from Baby Shmizz take over my blog so I can ~~be lazy~~ enjoy time with family. She is hilarious and our sons are just a few weeks apart and both have a reeling obsession with giraffes, better known as "raffies" in the Garden household and "heeraffs" in the Shmizz household. Except they might be a tad more obsessed than we...I'll let her explain:

--------------

Hello there OGG Friends!

My name is Shannon, and I am the genius behind Baby Shmizz. I am a full-time mommy to my son Jack, (oh yeah, and I have another job too, I'm a Physician Assistant working in Emergency Medicine) and MILF to my pastry chef husband Mike. We live in our overpriced little home sweet shack just north of Boston with our quirky rescue dog, Tessie. We're a little bit crazy and a whole lotta fun, but fair warning, we don't have a filter!

The time when I spent $130 to replace Jack's lovey...

So this is Jack's lovey:

It's a little giraffe on a small soft blanket, and it says 100% Cute. My sister Taylor bought it for him before he was born, and one day I just gave it to him and he fell asleep with it wrapped in his arms, and ever since they have been inseparable. We call it his HeeRaff, just because we like to give things silly names.

A few months ago when it was obvious that this was definitely his lovey, I was talking to my mom and she told me I better buy a backup just in case something happened. So I went online to JCPenney, where it was purchased from, no dice. Amazon? Nope. Diapers.com? Nada. So finally, I went to EBay.

Lo and behold, there were a few for sale. Mike and I decided that rather than getting in some ridiculous bidding war and getting pissed off in the end, that we would just Buy It Now, so we forked over $35 for a lovey that originally retailed for $16.99. Money well spent, or so I thought.

Well, as I was clicking the purchase button, my shipping address flashed up on the screen and then the order was placed before I could hit the back button. The problem with this is that it was my address FROM 4 YEARS AGO. That was the last time I bought something off EBay (it was a slipcover for this nasty couch we had in our apartment). Well shit. We are not in contact with our old landlord, and of course we don't know who is living in that apartment anymore. So I tried to contact the seller, sent her 4 EMAILS (she sucks, BTW). She finally wrote back saying that she had sent it out, and that when it got returned she would ship it back to me at my correct address.

Wellll....that was May. It's August. I still don't have it.

But, in the meantime, I decided to eat it because it was my mistake, and we ordered another one. Again, to the tune of $35 smackeroos. So now, I've paid $70 for about 1 square foot of fabric and fiberfill.

Fast forward to now, when both of the HeeRaffs are in heavy rotation. The way that Jack soothes himself is to suck/chew on the arms of the HeeRaff (kind of like a pacifier, which he ditched about 3 months ago). That's all fine and dandy, but when the arms never dry out and it smells like a mildewy bathtub from some house on Hoarders, then you've got a problem. I've tried everything to clean them (baking soda, OxiClean, double wash on hot), and next up on the list is vinegar in the wash and drying in the sun.

That's great if that works, but lets be realistic, those HeeRaff arms are getting pretty tired, and Jack is gonna need a refresher pretty soon.

So this past Tuesday night when I was working overnight (well I guess at that point it was Wednesday morning), I was posting on a message board asking for suggestions about how to clean these lovely Stinky HeeRaffs, and my friend Shan up in Canada (eh?) offered to look for the HeeRaffs up there, since of course I wasn't able to find more on EBay. So I obliged and went to look for a link online of a picture of it to send to her.

First link, JCPenney.

ZOMGHOLYSHITHOLYSHITHOLYSHIT!!!!!!!!! THEY HAVE THE HEERAFFS IN STOCK!!!!

I literally jumped up from my chair and scared the piss out of my attending who was sitting next to me. Oops :)

So you are probably wondering how many I bought. They were on sale for $11.

I bought 6.

Don't judge. Mommies, you've all been there: your kid's lovey is lost, the world is going to hell in a handbasket and there ain't no way there is enough wine in the universe to make you forget about the crying and wailing over said lost lovey.

Well guess what, that's not gonna be me. I've got 6 HeeRaffs, and they are all mine :)

WellOKFine, they are Jack's...

-------------------------

hehehehe!! Told ya she was funny! James' lovey is also a giraffe and we only have ONE. It's from the Pacimal line. I should probably order another one? What is your child's lovey? Do you have a backup?

Thanks Shannon for taking over my blog!

First Trip to the Zoo

2011-12-19T08:08:00.001-06:00

We took James to the Houston Zoo Saturday. He LOVED it. It was so much fun to see him make sounds at the animals he knows. Here are a few pics from our day.

He loved the sea otters!

playing in the gopher tunnels

this was the sweetest most tolerating goat. ever.

oh hai!!

Happy little family!

look at that smile! we got a couple of comments on how much he looks like me :)

Mama, I need some shades too!

James and Daddy

BOGO Tiny Prints Offer

2011-12-18T22:31:00.000-06:00

So it's no secret that I love Tiny Prints. We use them for everything because they have high quality products and great customer service. I also love that they have a "whimsy" category for just about everything.

I ended up picking this card for our Christmas card this year. Thanks everyone for your input! I was very happy with our choice!

Because I am an affiliate, I get dibs on awesome codes and can share them with you.

So two awesome codes right now:

Buy One Christmas or Hanukkah Greeting Card, Get One Free!

Customers who buy a Christmas greeting card or Hanukkah greeting card, can enjoy a second absolutely free. This offer applies exclusively to Christmas greeting cards and Hanukkah greeting cards and is not applicable to previously placed orders or stationery.

Code: BOGO12 | Offer expires 12/20/11 at 11:59 pm (PT)

Two Shipping Options to Get Cards by ChristmasWe have two options for customers to get cards by Christmas with an exclusive promo for affiliates. On Monday and Tuesday, customers can use the code below for Free Express Shipping (three business days, $24.95 value) or $5 off Super Rush Shipping (2 business days, pricing will change after first 5,000 orders). This is a great way to target those last minute procrastinators who still want to order holiday cards. Cards ordered on Monday with Express Shipping will arrive by 12/24.

Code: FS5GIFT, Exp: 12/20 11:59pm PT

The Christmas card prices are getting SLASHED right now because the card season is ending. So if you are a procrastinator like me, there is still time! Happy Shopping!

10 "Wild" (not really, we just went to the zoo) Observations.

2011-12-17T18:56:00.000-06:00

Today we took a trip to Houston zoo. I've never been so simutaneously happy and tired in my life. Pics to come later as I now typing this on my iPhone, on I-10 doing the biggest kegel of all time so I do not resort to peeing in this Starbucks cup in the backseat. Unfortunately, it wouldn't be the first time.

Some mere observations I made today:

1.) you might be too old to ride in little brother's mega stroller if you have a MUSTACHE.

2.) James default woofs at animals he has never seen before.

3.) forgetting the Boba carrier was a mistake since toddlers are eye level with the fence. Yeah I pushed an empty stroller all day.

4.) African wild dogs are like insanely cute.

5.) Birds and fish are boring.

6.) I paid $5 to feed a giraffe a single leaf of lettuce and they wouldn't let me touch his head. BUT BUT BUT I have a biology degree and worked in a zoo. OOPS the giraffe licked me! Too bad, zoo police, I win.

7.) Cloth diapering was surprisingly easy today. That might have something to do with the absence of poop though ;) speaking of which, I haven't pooped in three days. Thank you pregnancy.

8.) James likes to throw sand at goat heads. This was THE chillest goat ever. He didn't care at all that James thought he was a toy.

9.) Hubs and I had to be a total team today navigating metro traffic, begging security guards to open doors that just let you park your car in the garage but won't let you back into the building (Texas Children's all so we could eat Chipotle), and just doing the diaper, juice, nose wiping tango. We rocked.

10.) Today was one of the best days ever. I love my little family.

The Secret to Getting Your Toddler to Eat Vegetables {Marzetti Simply Dressed Review}

2011-12-15T22:35:00.000-06:00

I have discovered the secret to getting my toddler to eat vegetables. He used to eat pureed veggies just fine but then he decided to exert his ever growing independence and will only feed himself now. James, of course, gravitated towards the sweeter things in life; banana, grapes, peaches. And then we went through a "savory" period where he may have survived on nothing but breastmilk, breaded chicken, and mac and cheese. But a vegetable period? That never really happened.

Until this week. The fine folks at Marzetti sent me a sample of their new salad dressing, Simply Dressed, in Ranch.

I was excited to try it because I have been on a salad kick ever since I got pregnant. I thought maybe, just maybe I could let James try some ranch dressing and veggies and see ~~if a miracle happens~~ what happens. I had read in my toddler edition of What to Expect that toddlers love to dip vegetables in dressing and sauce. I thought not my kid, he wouldn't care if a vegetable was covered in sugar and sprinkles, he's not eating it. Plus he wouldn't even know what to do with it. He's never dipped anything in anything before. But it was worth a try. So I steamed his broccoli and carrots enough to where he could easily bite pieces off and presented the ranch in a ramekin (praying it wouldn't be thrown to shatter on the floor).

First, he had to reorganize the vegetables on his tray to his liking. Then, he slowly and in true toddler fashion, very carefully selected a carrot and proceeded to do exactly what was intended, dipped it in the ranch.

First bite? Produced a SMILE.

Hold the phone. My toddler just ate a bite of carrot? BECAUSE HE WANTED TO?

wait for it...wait for it...PIGS ARE FLYING. This, my friends, is a photo, albeit blurry, of my 16 month old child willingly putting broccoli into his mouth.

So did he like the Marzetti Simply Dressed Ranch dressing or just the vegetables or both? I will let this picture speak for itself.

I like to think it was both :) He didn't finish all of his veggies but he used a carrot as a spoon and licked up every last drop of that ranch!

Toddler Conclusion: resounding YES.

As a mom, I really like the Simply Dressed products because they are made with a minimal number of all natural ingredients such as evoo, canola oil (which is a source of Omega-3 ALA), and sea salt. The dressings contain absolutely NO preservatives, trans fats, high fructose corn syrup, MSG, or artificial flavorings or colors. So as you can see, this is a great, healthy choice for children and adults.

Mom Conclusion: The ranch flavor tastes tangy, wholesome, and fresh. It really is a good ol' ranch dressing without the preservatives and added flavorings that you will find in other dressings. I love that I can understand every single ingredient on the label. I tried it on a salad and I dipped a pickle in it (hey, I'm pregnant) and both were to my liking. I'd love to try it over a plate of bacony cheese fries...Mmmm.

There are 10 unique flavors to choose from: Blue Cheese, Ranch, Caesar, Pomegranate, Balsamic, Coleslaw, Champagne, Strawberry Poppyseed, Greek Feta and Ginger Sesame. I can't wait to try the Strawberry Poppyseed and Ginger Sesame. I love fun dressings that can make a boring salad into something exciting and new. These dressings would be delicious in a wrap too!

Simply Dressed is available in your grocer's produce section for a MSRP of $3.59-$4.59. To find a Simply Dressed in a store near you, visit www.marzetti.com/where-to-buy

I was one of the bloggers selected by T. Marzetti Company and http://www.clevergirlscollective.com" and Clever Girls Collective to host a Marzetti Simply Dressedreview. They provided me with product to test myself and compensation for my time. However, my opinions are entirely my own.

Wean Me Gently {Breastfeeding During Pregnancy}

2011-12-15T07:35:00.002-06:00

Now that I am in my second trimester, our breastfeeding frequency has significantly decreased. At 16 months, we nurse in the morning, before naptime, and before bedtime. I stopped feeling the milk ejection reflex at 10 weeks pregnant. My breasts are much smaller as they have ceased production of mature breastmilk and already producing colostrum for the new baby. I know he is still getting something because sometimes when he pulls away there is a dribble of milk on his lower lip. I'm glad he doesn't mind the change in taste and one plus is that he gets a more dense serving of antibodies and protein.

Breastfeeding for the very first time.

Part of me feels guilty for "stealing" James' breastmilk. I hadn't exactly planned on getting pregnant when he was only 13 months old. I really wanted to make it to two years, but 18 months might be a more reasonable goal. Even though he may only be nursing for comfort, I will nurse him as long as he wants and am even considering tandem nursing if he is still breastfeeding when I am 6+ months pregnant. I certainly will not wean him right before a major life change when he we may need the extra snuggles the most.

Breastfeeding has truly been my life's greatest challenge and greatest joy. And while we are not done yet, the end is in sight. And it really hurts my heart. I remember in the early weeks wanting to reach for that can of formula in the cupboard. But I didn't. I wanted to give up when I was getting four hours of sleep a night. But I didn't. I had to nurse on a top 8 allergen free diet for 5 months and it would have been easier on me to stop. But I didn't. Then breastfeeding become easy and enjoyable. Even relaxing. It became one of the greatest ways I showed my love to my son.

Breastfeeding on James' first birthday.

I found this beautiful poem that pretty much completely explains how I am feeling right now. It made me cry like a baby the first time I read it. The ending made me literally gasp.

Wean Me Gently
Cathy Cardall

I know I look so big to you,

Maybe I seem too big for the needs I have.

But no matter how big we get,

We still have needs that are important to us.

I know that our relationship is growing and changing,

But I still need you. I need your warmth and closeness,

Especially at the end of the day

When we snuggle up in bed.

Please don't get too busy for us to nurse.

I know you think I can be patient,

Or find something to take the place of a nursing;

A book, a glass of something,

But nothing can take your place when I need you.

Sometimes just cuddling with you,

Having you near me is enough.

I guess I am growing and becoming independent,

But please be there.

This bond we have is so strong and so important to me,

Please don't break it abruptly.

Wean me gently,

Because I am your mother,

And my heart is tender.

Source

WW: Sleigh Bells Ring...

2011-12-13T22:08:00.000-06:00

This little sweater and polo shirt combo slay me. How stinkin' cute is he?

I think he is going to look like Mommy!

Getting ready to go to a church Christmas party.

Snippity snip snip! I remembered that I cut my hair at 13 weeks pregnant last time too. Must be something about the hormones that makes me more daring! It's a little shorter than I told her to do it (like 2 inches) but I'm happy with the way it turned out. Now I have a bunch of new cute hair styles to try out. I'll probably let it get longer before the baby is due though so I don't have the 40 week pregnant chub face with short hair.

13 weeks SECOND TRIMESTER!

2011-12-13T17:54:00.003-06:00

I am so happy to reach this milestone! First trimester seemed to drag by but at times it flew by too! Actually, this pregnancy is flying. I'm ready to reach the midway point with all the fin stuff- the anatomy scan, feeling kicks, picking a name. But I'm scared to move too quickly past that and actually HAVE the baby.

I have been feeling so much better the past two weeks. Completely different from last pregnancy. I am still taking my Zofran and probably will until I run out next month and then I will reevaluate how I'm feeling without it. I still feel nauseous in the morning, but it's nothing the Zofran doesn't fix. The last time I attempted a day without it I threw six times before noon. Yikes.

Here is the 13 week baby bump!

Also? I chopped all my hair off and went even blonder. I love it.

13 week quiz:

How far along? 13w3d.

Weight gain/loss? I weighed 138 today. Still no weight gain overall but up a pound from two weeks ago.

Stretchies? ha. plenty from last pregnancy. Thanks.

Sleep? A little better these days. Getting up at least once or twice a night to pee.

Best moment this week? 2nd trimester!

Movement? Maybe? I occasionally feel taps but nothing ground breaking yet.

Food cravings? Orange Fanta with vanilla. Oh mah gah. SO good.

Gender? I really have no idea right now.

Labor signs? none.

Belly button in or out? in but it looked wider last night.

What I miss? not much, feeling pretty good right now!

What I am looking forward to? anatomy scan NEXT MONTH.

Weekly wisdom? Enjoy your pregnancy while you feel good.

Milestones? Second trimester!

What's going on right now?

Fingerprints have formed on your baby's tiny fingertips, her veins and organs are clearly visible through her still-thin skin, and her body is starting to catch up with her head — which makes up just a third of her body size now. If you're having a girl, she now has more than 2 million eggs in her ovaries. Your baby is almost 3 inches long (the size of a medium shrimp) and weighs nearly an ounce. babycenter.com

Add poo poo to the list!

2011-12-12T10:32:00.001-06:00

Yesterday after a prolonged period of grunting from James, I asked him, "did you make a poo poo for daddy?" He happily replied "POO POO!!" It was so stinking cute (pun intended;)

So now he has been walking around practicing his new word. He says it excitedly but very quietly too.

James' words at 16 months:
Mama
Dada
Baby
Bye bye
Woof woof
Meow
Moo
Grrr
Ball
Poo poo

Working on:
Bird- tweet tweet
Pig- oink oink
Up
Bunny
Oscar
Mickey
Tree (Christmas tree)
Drink

And many more!

What silly words has your toddler learned?

Boy Toddler Christmas List

2011-12-09T07:34:00.001-06:00

Christmas shopping has been SO much fun this year since James, 16 months, is really starting to enjoy specific toys and activities. I cannot wait to see him open all his presents! Here is a list of some of the things Santa is bringing our good little boy this year. All titles and pictures are linked to product so you don't have to go searching around for them :)

Melissa and Doug Fireman Costume

James love of fireman things began with a fireman themed day at the library. We brought home a fire hat but it soon cracked. This one is sturdier and comes with so many other fun things- the coat, extinguisher, and bullhorn! He is going to love this. I got mine for $15.00

Melissa and Doug Pizza Party

James loves playing with his playfood set he got for his birthday so we thought we would add to his pretend pantry! How adorable is this pizza party set? $10.00

Melissa and Doug Cutting Food Box

This will be great for practicing those fine motor skills! $10.00

Melissa and Doug Band in a Box

Okay, we really like Melissa and Doug :) This is the band in a box. It comes with maracas, cymbals, and other loud things I will probably regret purchasing. Just kidding. He is going to LOVE this.

Ralph Lauren Toddler Sneakers
The cuteness speaks for itself.

Play a Sound Books

James loves books and he loves trains and he loves toys that he can "do himself." Perfect combination:
$8.98

Play Doh Set
I think it's time that we start letting James express his artistic side. I can't wait to see what he thinks about play doh!

Toddler Table and Chairs

And now that James is starting to do some basic arts and crafts, he will need a space his size to do it all on!

We got him a few other things like shirts from our Alma Mater and lots of winter clothes and a few more books and I've saved a few things I have won from giveaways.

And now for some stocking stuffers!

Toddler Silverware Set

This child is smart. He learned about toddler silverware at his Nana's house. He knows that adults don't eat with neon orange plastic forks with bears on the end of him so why should he? He knows that his cutlery should be shiny like ours alas... sized for little hands.

California Baby 100% Botanical Shampoo and Bodywash
So have you heard that Johnson's has like arsenic and crap in their baby bath products? Super scary. California Baby is 100% botanically derived ingredients and safe for baby's delicate skin. This also contains calendula which has a calming effect on bumpy patches of skin.

Grovia Cloth Diaper
Because duh. You knew we weren't having Christmas without one new cloth diaper :)

Other great Etsy shops to check out for Christmas presents:
Little Free Radical has super cute cloth animals:

Kangaroo Stitches custom quilts:

Sweet Pea a la Mode makes adorable boy tie shirts and onesies:

Sweet Stella's personalized piggies:

Share your favorite toddler Christmas gifts and Etsy shops in the comments section!

I give myself permission

2011-12-08T07:58:00.002-06:00

I give myself to permission to leave the boys alone and read in the bathtub.

I give myself permission to ignore my blog.

I give myself permission to sleep during James' naptime instead of folding clothes.

I give myself permission to keep my cell phone off.

I give myself permission to ask for help.

I give myself permission to cry on a bad day.

I give myself permission to celebrate nothing (this involves Mexican food).

I give myself permission to give my husband permission to get me Sonic ;)

I give myself permission to make an appointment for my hair and nails.

I give myself permission to spend more time with my son than keep the house spotless.

I give myself permission to do something else besides entertain him while he is awake, like read.

I give myself permission to buy things for me every once in awhile.

I give myself permission not to worry.

I give myself permission to plan a new dream.

I give myself permission to love where and who I am right now.

PSA: Fuzzibunz only $13.99 at Zulily today! thru 12/10

2011-12-07T11:44:00.001-06:00

Zulily is an invite only site that offers huge daily sales on popular baby and mom brands like cloth diapers, maternity wear, and tons of baby and kids clothes and shoes.

One of today's sales is Fuzzibunz cloth diapers for $13.99! I have been wanting to try Fuzzibunz for a while now but didn't want to invest too much money into a diaper I knew relatively little about. But for 13.99? I can do that. Regular price is $22.00, so this is a great deal. This sale ends on 12/10 at 6 am.

Here is a screenshot of some of the colors:

There are 21 colors up today and three have sold out completely already, so move quick if you want one!

I controlled thyself and bought just one:

Super excited because we don't have any bright orange diapers yet. Because you know, completing the cloth diaper rainbow is top priority.

How to buy: You will need to sign up to be a member of Zulily first here. All you do is create an account and then you can shop! You will see the Fuzzibunz sale on the homepage, top left corner, after you have made an account. Happy Shopping!

Kitty Kisses!

2011-12-07T09:56:00.000-06:00

James has started doing the sweetest thing. He will chase Bun, our cat, around the house until she submits and gives her a kiss! He will either kiss her on the face or her belly. SO cute. He does this with my parents cats too. What's also incredible is that he knows all the cats names. He can't say the names yet but if we ask him, "What does Barney say?" he responds will "BWEOW!!" Bweow = meow. I love that he is already showing an interest in animals. Makes my mommy heart melt.

Kissing Liney's belly:

Would you like some Sprite, Kitty?

He then might have thrown a block at Linuses head so hard that we all heard it hit his skull. Oopsy.

This morning, giving Bun a little lovin'!

PSA: Cloth Diaper Review Opportunity

2011-12-07T06:48:00.000-06:00

Midnight Mommy is currently looking for any bloggers who would like to review a cloth diaper or cloth accessory. You can check out her post here for more information.

I'm not lazy anymore and I'm going to eat 1000 cookies.

2011-12-06T07:30:00.000-06:00

You know that part in pregnancy where something miraculously clicks and you're like "hey, I feel better!" and then clean the house and cook meals again? Well, it happened! and SO early! (bangs head on wood).

Finally this week, at 11-12 weeks, my appetite is back in full force, I have made spaghetti, red beans and rice, baked a dessert, stripped diapers, cleaned almost the the whole, very neglected house, put more energy into playing with my son, stopped gagging at every.single.thing and can drink coffee again! I still vomit in the morning and sometimes at night, but the all day nausea is GONE!

Y'all, I got my Christmas tree up BEFORE December 1. That in itself, is a miracle.

Ahh, it feels so good to be back to myself. And what more a perfect time than this? Christmas time!

And you know what else? I CAN EAT SUGAR COOKIES THIS YEAR! Last year at this time, I was eating turkey, vegetables, and rice. Seriously. Pretty sure I am going to eat a thousand.

Popped?

2011-12-05T07:45:00.000-06:00

I snapped this on Saturday at 12w1d. I'm thinking my belly might have popped? This was before lunch, so not a food baby. It looks nice a round from top to bottom too--different from bloat. I'm already having to wear maternity shirts! But? I totally love my bump. It makes me feel cute :)

I definitely look slimmer in my arms, butt, and hips though. +1 for morning sickness ;)

Here I am at 12 weeks with James.

Definitely a difference!

Want to see more belly pics? Check out my pregnant belly pics week by week with James!

Dear Santa, ANDPLUSALSO, Pinterest style

2011-12-03T07:13:00.001-06:00

I can never think of anything I want for Christmas and my birthday (which is less than 3 weeks after Christmas) and therefore usually end up with a weird assortment of hot pink polyester scarves, kitchen magnets, and gaudy, beaded unusable kitchen towels. Well, this year, when people (aka my mom) ask for a list, I will not be empty handed! I already made a Dear Santa, Pinterest Style Part I and apparently that wasn't enough because my awesome mom asked me to send her more ideas. YAY! So here they are :)

Source: ralphlauren.com via OGG on Pinterest

Source: thebodyshop-usa.com via OGG on Pinterest

Source: smartwool.com via OGG on Pinterest

Source: thebodyshop-usa.com via OGG on Pinterest

Source: smartwool.com via OGG on Pinterest

Source: amazon.com via OGG on Pinterest

What's on your list?

My child just ate a stamp.

2011-12-02T16:16:00.000-06:00

James just opened the desk drawer, peeled a stamp off the roll and ate it.

I hope he poops out a clean 0.44 for me.

He also knows what to do with power cords. Last night he unplugged the Christmas tree and tried to plug it back in. Oy.

I'm always so astonished at how much he is observing and learning. When he sees me with a chapstick, he will run up to me and pucker his lips. He brushes his hair and his teeth. Eats with a fork. My favorite, gives hugs and kisses freely. Opens French door knobs. He is getting too smart!

Tiny Prints Christmas Cards! Help me pick!

2011-12-01T23:13:00.003-06:00

Now that Thanksgiving has passed it’s time for one of my favorite holiday traditions...sending Christmas cards to family and friends! For the second year in a row I have chosen Tiny Prints for thier designs, ease of transaction, and high quality products.

A new twist on the Holiday card is Tiny Print's Ornament cards, which are great for family and friends because the card doubles as a Christmas ornament! Tiny Prints is even perfect for families on a budget because you can find adorable and personal Holiday Cards with the Studio Basic Line starting at $.79.

What makes Tiny Prints different and so amazing is that before each order is shipped it is hand reviewed (by a human!) for any issues, so you’re guaranteed to receive high-quality cards. These cards are sure to amaze family and friends. Make sure to check out all of the latest coupons from Tiny Prints. There are usually free shipping codes and free item codes in that section. Like this one,

Free Shipping + 15% Off Orders of $75+ or 20% Off $175+
HOLSAVE20
12/3/2011
15% Off $49+ & 20% off $149+ Plus Free Shipping (Starts 12/3)
DECFS20
12/6/2011

You're welcome ;)

Now to the top three contenders! Which is your favorite?

Sponsor Our Growing Garden This Winter!

2011-12-01T14:51:00.000-06:00

Do you need a way to gain more followers for your blog or bring more traffic to your business or Etsy shoppe? Advertising at Our Growing Garden is a great way to bring new readers and customers to your site! Blog stats and pricing information below. Please contact me at ourgrowinggarden@gmail.com with any questions or to begin advertising.

All Etsy shops can enjoy 15% off any ad package.

Our Growing Garden receives 550-1000 hits a day on average.

Baby in a drawer!

2011-12-01T07:27:00.001-06:00

It's so funny how James thinks everything is a little seat for him. His latest chair? A kitchen drawer!

Mommy, this is the perfect size for me.

Find a new place for the bread okay?

And then he found a baster and beat poor Oscar over the head with it!

I promise, it's all fun and games Oscar.

You're next Bun.

Family Pictures!

2011-11-30T08:00:00.000-06:00

Test my motherhood.

2011-11-29T16:11:00.001-06:00

Let's play a game shall we? I will ask you a question and you post with the correct multiple choice response.

Today, I looked up to find my child:

a.) using a plunger as a walking stick

b.) a trail of celery flakes that led me to him putting a jar aforementioned spice in the china cabinet

c.) tossing dry oats into the air like confetti

d.) peeing on the leg of a barstool

e.) all of the above

The correct answer is e.) all of the above. I have no clue how I am going to handle two under two. I have a door opening, counter reaching, diaper escape artist. I'm pretty sure I'm in denial and think he is still 8 months old.

Lord help me.

11 weeks and Appointment update!

2011-11-28T21:48:00.001-06:00

This pregnancy has been pretty different so far from the last time. To the point that it had freaked me out. I have experienced a little spotting (like the smallest amount ever), total lack of symptoms for a week or so (they're back now), and overananlyzing everything (oh wait. that's nothing new).

I had my appointment today, which was actually rescheduled after I MISSED my November 21st appointment (hello pregnancy brain.) I talked to my doctor for a minute and then he tried to find the heartbeat. Nothing.

My heart sank. I was so, so scared.

He then said, "You know what, I don't even know what I am doing trying to find the heartbeat this early. How about an ultrasound?"

Um, yes please?

We had to go back out into the waiting room for a bit. I held back tears and prayed silently that everything was okay.

And it was.

Meet my new baby:

Baby was kicking around, appeared to be sucking his/her thumb, and measured 5.2 cm (11w6d- three days ahead) and the heart rate was 171 bpm.

Such a huge weight has been lifted now that I know our baby is okay. It was so amazing to see him/her wiggling around and to see that beautiful heart beating away. I'm in complete awe. It's like finding out I'm pregnant all over again.

Two years ago today, we found out about James and two years later, we got to see our sweet baby #2 kicking around. Amazing how things work out isn't it? I'm so thankful and happy our baby is just fine and perfect. Now I'm really starting to get excited!

11 week Belly Pic: I have definitely lost all the bloat and can feel a hardening over my pubic bone now. Let the real bump begin!

What's happening this week: Your baby, just over 1 1/2 inches long and about the size of a fig, is now almost fully formed. Her hands will soon open and close into fists, tiny tooth buds are beginning to appear under her gums, and some of her bones are beginning to harden.

She's already busy kicking and stretching, and her tiny movements are so effortless they look like water ballet. These movements will become more frequent as her body grows and becomes more developed and functional. You won't feel your baby's acrobatics for another month or two — nor will you notice the hiccupping that may be happening now that her diaphragm is forming. babycenter.com

11 week Quiz:

How far along? 11w3d.
Weight gain/loss? I weighed 137 today. Still no weight gain.
Maternity clothes? In maternity jeans but they fall down constantly. I really need to get a belly band.
Stretchies? ha. plenty from last pregnancy. Thanks.
Sleep? The fatigue has let up from the early days of pregnancy but I'm still tired and barely getting 8 hours of sleep between a snoring husband and an earlybird toddler.
Best moment this week? Seeing baby on the ultrasound!
Movement? I swear I can feel something. It feels like a turning sensation. I am not putting it toward baby yet, but I can't help but get excited when I do feel it.
Food cravings? I just really like cold, fruity things. I craved tuna a few weeks ago.
Gender? thinking maybe a girl now? Only a daughter could cause this much stress from the womb ;)
Labor signs? none.
Belly button in or out? in
What I miss? enjoying meals.
What I am looking forward to? getting a bump.
Weekly wisdom? Maybe stop freaking myself out.
Milestones? Baby is the size of a LIME!

Two Years Ago Today...

2011-11-28T08:00:00.013-06:00

My Sweet Little Boy,

Two years ago today, I prayed with all my heart that this rainbow over I-20 was a sign.

Two years ago today, I found out that you were there, growing inside me.

Two years ago today, your Daddy sat in disbelief in his computer chair at Nana and Pappy's house when I told him you finally happened.

Two years ago today, I found out you were there, only the size of a poppyseed. Little did I know how so very much you would become my heart. You are my baby, my Jiblet, my sweet boo boo baby. Nothing in the world has ever made me so happy as you. I love you with every piece of my being.

To the moon and back,

Mommy

Dedicated to LaFreaka,

2011-11-27T12:56:00.000-06:00

Dear LaFreaka,

I had so much fun this week and can't wait for Christmas so we can laugh more about blowfish, fish masters, and tallywhackers. And make fun of more people that say WELL HAY!! HOWRE YEW????as loudly and dramatically as possible.

James is in love with your cats and they are so sweet to him, even sweeter than Bun. By the way, James pretty much made out with Linus' belly last night. Then he threw a block at his head. It totally, most likely cracked his kitty skull.

I love you sissy and like Grandaddy always used to say, everything is going to be alright.

-Annward

ps. I know you are cracking up right now and everyone else is like WTF?

Oh why the hell not?...

Scared and nervous

2011-11-26T10:06:00.000-06:00

Last night I had just about the worst dream a pregnant woman can have. I have gotten so paranoid and anxious that something is wrong. I fear the worst. The majority of my symptoms have gone, which is completely opposite from last pregnancy. Yesterday I had the smallest dot of blood ever on the tissue paper (three separate times) And of course I'm still freaking out about the heartrate from 7 weeks. And I've been having lots of stabby cramps.

I'm just really nervous and scared :( I took a urinalysis dipstick test (FIL has a clinic) and it came back positive for moderate leukocytes which probably means infection. So I have that to deal with soon too. I have an appt. Monday where we are supposed to hear the heartbeat.

Hang on little one, I need you.

src="http://i1025.photobucket.com/albums/y315/mrsgloves/Kristinsiggy-1.png">

Twinkie Tush Cloth Diaper Review and Giveaway CLOSED

2011-11-25T10:00:00.005-06:00

This contest is closed.

Now that baby number two is on the way, I am slowly and happily adding new cloth diapers to our stash. I always get excited when I found cute and unique prints and boy, did I find them.

Twinkie Tush cloth diapers are made by a WAHM company that specializes in one size, handmade fitted cloth diapers with a unique three piece soaker system. You know what else they specialize in? Amazing PRINTS.

Allow me to illustrate:

You don't even know how bad I want to put that giant flower on James' bottom ;) But are these not the CUTEST cloth diapers you have EVER seen?

So I was SO excited when Mike of Twinkie Tush sent us this super cute diaper to try out:

Oh, why yes, there is a moose on his tushy. And he is quite happy about it.

Twinkie Tush diapers have a unique three piece diaper system. The inside is an organic bamboo velour insert with a soaker that snaps in between a large soaker folded in half. This is the first diaper that we have used that did not have PUL so I was a little nervous about leaking. James wore the diaper for about 2.5 hours before I started feeling a little wetness around the leg holes but as I washed the diaper more and more the absorbency started to last to about 4 hours without a cover! This diaper can be used at nighttime with a cover to make it waterproof.

The quality is superb. There is so much attention to detail. The stitching is perfect all the way around the diaper. The diaper fits snugly around his waist and the leg holes. Alot of our diapers have some gapping at the legs, but this one did not! The inside looks so comfortable too with the plush velour. The layers between the velour are super absorbent organic bamboo. The diapers fit babies from 12-35 pounds.

Overall, I really liked this diaper. And it's so cute, he never wears pants with it!

You can purchase a Twinkie Tush here for $35.00. Twinkie Tush also has a very active Facebook page where you can find more info on stocking at the Hyena Cart store. (stocking times vary weekly)

Win it! Twinkie Tush is generously giving away a CUSTOM diaper of the winners choice! and you have OH so many choices! Check out all the prints!

This is a Rafflecopter giveaway. The first entry is mandatory. You must open the post for the entry form to appear. You must be a Google Friend Connect follower of Our Growing Garden.

Click HERE to open the post.

Thirty One Black Friday Review and Giveaway CLOSED

2011-11-25T00:01:00.012-06:00

This giveaway is now closed.

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving yesterday! And now that Thanksgiving is over, you know what that means? CHRISTMAS TIME! And you know what that means? Lots of traveling to see friends and family with a wild little toddler!

I had the chance to review a thirty one organizing utility tote and I thought it would be perfect for all the odds and ends that end up in the car while traveling. So I tried out my thirty one tote this week while we traveled to visit family for Thanksgiving.

See how cute!?

I was able to keep the things in the car that are usually floating around in one place and organized. The tote was awesome for keeping the sippy, our drinks, cough drops, my book, and a few snacks all in one place.

I loved that the tote is waterproof and sturdy. If James' sippy spills, it's okay because it can be easily wiped out. The bag is so durable it could easily carry ten pounds of weight, so it would work as a bag for students too. There are eight pockets on the outside of the bag (hello, functionality). I used them to stash drinks and fruit.

The utility totes are super affordable at just $25.00.

It's a pretty nice sized bag. Not small and not huge. I could even throw my tennis shoes on top of what I had already included above.

While I do prefer a zippered bag, this would make a pretty great diaper bag with all the pockets. I would have liked to have seen the handles be made of the same fabric or a thicker canvas.

All in all, I would say this is a great bag for organizing. I like that all the pockets are on the outside of the bag for quick and easy access and the inside is wide open for storing larger items.

Thirty One also offers some great specials and coupons. For every $31 you spend, you can get some of Thirty One's most popular items for only $5 such as the cinch sac, all in one organizer, soft wallet, pencil pouch and flat iron case.

Mystery Hostess Party!
During the giveaway there will be a mystery hostess party. Anyone who places an order during the duration of the giveaway will be entered into winning the mystery hostess rewards. Hostess rewards include free products, half priced items, and hostess exclusive products. Anyone who purchases anything through Thirty One will be entered into the mystery hostess drawing.

You can purchase an organizing utility tote here through consultant Kelli Hansen.

Win it! Thirty One consultant, Kelli Hansen, is giving away an organizing utility tote to one lucky winner!

This is a Rafflecopter giveaway. You must open the post for the Rafflecopter widget to appear. The first entry is mandatory. Good Luck!

I received the review product free of charge. This giveaway will begin November 25 and end December 3. One winner will be chosen at random and have 48 hours to respond.

Dear Santa, Pinterest Style

2011-11-21T07:57:00.000-06:00

Dear Santa,

This lovely handmade, infinity scarf would look gorgeous around my neck:

Source: etsy.com via OGG on Pinterest

and I would wear these, like, everyday:

Source: zappos.com via OGG on Pinterest

I've never owned anything besides ugly, plain sheets. branching out into the world of pattern:

Source: walmart.com via OGG on Pinterest

I first found a new bottle of this soap at a thrift store, only to find it retails for $26. Best.scent.ever.

Source: usa.loccitane.com via OGG on Pinterest

These handmade coasters have all the colors of my house in them!

Source: etsy.com via OGG on Pinterest

and if you think I have been a really good girl this year, please reward me with this. Thanks.

Source: potterybarn.com via OGG on Pinterest

What's on your Christmas list?

Follow me on Pinterest!

The current loves of my life...er, belleh.

2011-11-19T20:30:00.000-06:00

Sour Patch Kids. HOW are they SO good? I ate so many my tongue was all chafed and burning. Pretty sure my box was laced with LSD.

Canned tuna. Yeah, I'm not even sure. But I'm kinda addicted to tuna fish right now. I made this recipe, and NO JOKE ate four servings in one night. Tuna and crunchy onion and tomato? OH mah gosh. SO good.

Simply Orange Pineapple. I can't even begin to express my love for this beverage. All I know is I'm drinking about a third of a gallon a day before my organs are smushed halfway up my throat.

Super Mario gummies. They are a quick way to get some tasty calories in the morning. Or noon. Or 3 am.

Also, James may have an addiction to these.

Sherbet. Okay, why doesn't mine come with a flower in it? Anyway, I totally eat sherbet for breakfast.

So, it appears I am liking sweet, fruity and sour things this pregnancy. Last pregnancy I had a cheeseburger and fries everyday. No really. D would bring me home a Wendy's single and fries EVERYDAY after work. I tried that this time and I hated it. I hate meat, I hate cheese and I hate real food in general. For example, there was a beef stew served at a party today, and sadly it was the most foul thing I'd ever smelled (it wasn't bad, just my screwy nose).

Also, I'M EATING NOW. And not puking at the SIGHT of food. Is my all day sickness coming to an end? YES? YES!!

Now please take this brief questionnaire:

1.) If you craved different foods in a subsequent pregnancy, did you have the opposite sex?

2.) When did your morning sickness end?

3.) Did this post make you hungry?

Worst Pregnancy Brain Moment of All Time.

2011-11-18T07:55:00.002-06:00

Um, apparently in my pregnant brain, I have been 24 for two years now. I was tweezing my facial hair (lovely, I know) and thinking about my husband's birthday coming up next week, which I am completely unprepared for, by the way.

I was thinking, "Wow, he's going to be 26. He is SO old."

Then I thought about the phrase Father Time and what the heck HE looks like. Which is apparently this:

hmmmkay.

Then it hit me.

I will be 26 too just 3 weeks later.

Wait, WHAT? I thought I was 24?

So I yelled out from the bathroom, "D, how old am I?"

D: huh??!

me: HOW OLD AM I?

D: You are 25, sweetie. What is wrong with you?

When did I turn 25? and is 26 considered late twenties? I'M IN MY LATE TWENTIES? Wasn't I newly 21 and pursuing a biology degree and planning a wedding like 5 minutes ago? Okay seriously though, I honestly thought I was 24 for at least the amount of time it takes me to pluck out my pregnancy chin hairs (more on THAT later--)

Worst Pregnancy Brain Moment Ever? I forgot my age.

I decided not to be crazy.

2011-11-17T07:51:00.000-06:00

I decided not to be crazy and order a fetal doppler. I really want to hear the heartbeart again before the world knows that I am pregnant (Thanksgiving) but I don't want to a.) spend $60 on a doppler and b.) not find the heartbeat and then FREAK out for no reason.

I haven't had any abnormal cramping or spotting so I really have no reason to be concerned. It's just that the heartbeat at 7 weeks was lower than what James' was at 6w4d. Totally nitpicking, I know. It was 120 bpm for 7 weeks (and 10mm) which the ultrasound tech said was in normal range. But from what I have gathered on the internet, it's not a "super strong" heartbeat. Then again, I never ovulated on day 14, so I probably was not 7 weeks exactly.

Why must my brain do this? Why do I create these fears and anxiety? You would think the all day sickness and vomiting would be enough to convince me that everything is okay. I can't wait to feel the baby kick on a daily basis- so reassuring. My next appointment is November 28th.

Worrying starts from conception, eh? And never stops!

Annual Food Festival

2011-11-16T08:00:00.000-06:00

Every year our small south Louisiana town hosts a food festival where for five bucks you can try out a bunch of different dishes. My favorite was a spicy chicken picante and my husbands favorite was something with a beef roux (yuck). James' favorite was a cupcake ;)

Just look at how sweet his expression is here:

He even got to meet the fire dog!

He was all, "what ARE you? Go away. Thanks."

Tiny Tush Elite Cloth Diaper Review and Giveaway

2011-11-15T14:47:00.001-06:00

Santa is planning on bringing James a few new diapers for Christmas so I have been on the lookout for inexpensive diapers. A few months ago, I won a giveaway from ELF Family Blog and had the chance to try out a Tiny Tush Elite from Better Cloth Diapers. The Tiny Tush Elite became our absolute favorite cloth diaper. Why? Well let my husband explain it for you: "It is a wide, sturdy diaper with high quality snaps. The inside of the diaper is the best out of all of ours because of the soft fabric and width. The diaper is not too stocky and it can be double stuffed for a night time diaper."

Dude. If my husband comments on how awesome the diaper is WITHOUT PROMPT, it's an awesome diaper.

I was so excited when Ina from Better Cloth Diapers contacted me and asked if I would like to review a red or green Tiny Tush Elite!

About Better Cloth Diapers: Our mission at BetterClothDiapers.com is to promote family health and happiness by providing healthy and environmentally friendly options and quality parenting information and resources. We will continue to add organic and made in the US options to our site. You can expect the very best customer service from BetterClothDiapers.com Our Tiny Tush Cloth Diapers combine state-of-the-art technology, ingenious design, and good old-fashioned comfort to make cloth diapering easy. Our Ameda breast pumps offer hospital grade technology in a personal pump at an affordable price.

Hey! Gimme that camera and quit taking pictures of my tushy!

I love this diaper because the insert opening is WIDE and makes it very easy to stuff and remove. The pocket is deep enough to easily double or triple up inserts for overnight. The inside is micro-fleece and the outside is made of water proof PUL. I can honestly say that the Tiny Tushes look new after being worn and washed for weeks. This is the diaper I reach for first in our stash now. Never a leak. Never a stink. Never had to wash more than once to get it clean. It's just a great diaper.

Shop
You can purchase a Tiny Tush Elite cloth diaper here for $19.95.

Win!

In the spirit of Christmas, Better Cloth Diapers is generously giving away the winner's choice of a red or green Tiny Tush diaper!

This is a Rafflecopter giveaway. You must open the post for the Rafflecopter widget to appear. The first entry is mandatory. All currents count for additional entries. The giveaway will end 11/24. Remember to leave an email address. Good luck!

Weekly Bumpdate! 9 weeks

2011-11-14T08:00:00.000-06:00

It's about time I start my pregnancy quizzes again. The last 5 weeks have been pretty much the same: all day sickness, fatigue, food aversions. We had our first appointment nearly a month ago and got to see the heartbeat at 7 weeks (120 bpm and 10mm).

Apparently baby is growing from 1 inch long this week to 1.5 inches long so it's no surprise that I have been even more tired and even more sick. I do have my good moments though. Like yesterday, we went to the food festival downtown and had a great time.

Here is my 9 week baby bump!

Hmm...hopefully I look pregnant to strangers and not like I had too many cheeseburgers.

What happening this week?
Your new resident is nearly an inch long — about the size of a grape — and weighs just a fraction of an ounce. She's starting to look more and more human. Her essential body parts are accounted for, though they'll go through plenty of fine-tuning in the coming months. Other changes abound: Your baby's heart finishes dividing into four chambers, and the valves start to form — as do her tiny teeth. The embryonic "tail" is completely gone. Your baby's organs, muscles, and nerves are kicking into gear. The external sex organs are there but won't be distinguishable as male or female for another few weeks. Her eyes are fully formed, but her eyelids are fused shut and won't open until 27 weeks. She has tiny earlobes, and her mouth, nose, and nostrils are more distinct. The placenta is developed enough now to take over most of the critical job of producing hormones. Now that your baby's basic physiology is in place, she's poised for rapid weight gain. -Babycenter

Quiz Time!

How far along? 9 weeks.
Weight gain/loss? I weighed 136 today. Down 3.5 lbs. Can't complain about that ;)
Maternity clothes? I have given to the maternity jeans. The ponytail holder on the regular jeans was chopping my belly in half and looked really stupid.
Stretchies? ha. plenty from last pregnancy. Thanks.
Sleep? I want more. James wakes up at 8:30 am everyday and is sleeping through the night for the most part. But I have been so dang tired.
Best moment this week? Telling my Mimi about baby #2.
Movement? none.
Food cravings? none. I hate food and it hates me. I may have had a fleeting moment Saturday night where I really wanted a donut but it passed pretty quickly. I wanted Sonic but only took a few bites once we got it.
Gender? Totally a boy.
Labor signs? none.
Belly button in or out? in
What I miss? my energy.
What I am looking forward to? hearing the heartbeat again, telling more of our family over Thanksgiving.
Weekly wisdom? Stop staying up so late. Give in to the sleeps.
Milestones? Baby ended his embryonic period and became a fetus!

I have a fetus!

2011-11-12T15:57:00.000-06:00

9 weeks!

Do I look 9 weeks for a second pregnancy or bigger? Be honest!

That time I tried to wing it without a Zofran.

2011-11-10T17:45:00.003-06:00

Yesterday was MISERY. PURE MISERY. I was dumb and let my prescription run out. I cut my last 4 mg tab in half on Monday night and saved one for Tuesday morning. 2 mg to get me through the afternoon. Surely I could handle that right? No. Not really. I retched and dry heaved and gagged all day. I called my OB at around 10:00 am and told the receptionist that I most definitely needed a refill on my Zofran and could you please ask Dr. M. to write it for 8 mg instead of 4mg (mostly so I could cheat insurance and cut the pills in half and get twice as many- nice right ;)? Sure, no problem she said.

So my husband goes by Wal-Mart (I don't know why we pharm there either) and MY PRESCRIPTION IS NOT THERE. What the donkeysticks?! This means I have to survive the next day of my pregnant life without Zofran.

You want to take a guess at how many times I puked the next day? Start guessing.

1... no.
2... no.
3... no.

4??? NO.

5... no.
6... no.

Omg seriously?

7... no.

EIGHT. I vommed EIGHT times yesterday. How is that even possible? I literally puked all day yesterday. And guess what happens when you vomit violently after you've already given birth? Apparently, I gave birth to several of my bladder control muscles along with my child.

So I called Wal-Mart back thinking the doc just didn't get around to calling in my script yesterday evening. Still not there! I call the doc back and they say it was called in and I'm like um, no, no it wasn't.

Finally, I got my precious drug last night and feeling much better today.
.

I often wonder if I had been pregnant in the 1800's or anytime without modern medicine. I think they would have been like, "Sorry, you die."

Do I have hyperemesis this time (I did last pregnancy)? I think I darn sure would if it weren't for a drug that allowed me to keep my food down. I honestly want to kiss the persons face that invented Zofran. A huge thank you to whoever invented this amazing drug. Like, I honestly thanked God for you.

Overall, I think I am doing better this pregnancy. I have lost seven pounds and gained one back. My food aversions are out of control. Just the thought of food is pretty disgusting to me. I can't wait to indulge in the first craving.

I'm nine weeks tomorrow. Three fourths of the way through first trimester. Hopefully these symptoms will let up soon and I can get to the good stuff like feeling the baby kick for the first time and finding out the sex.

All this sickness though makes me think little J or C (hmm?!) is doing just fine in there.

There's a new Daddy in town.

2011-11-10T09:41:00.000-06:00

There's a new Daddy in town and his name is "Baby."

James has been calling his Daddy "dada" for months now until he learned the word "baby."

We show James pictures of babies, his own portrait on the wall, and his 4 month old pal, and he calls them all "baba!" Translation: baby.

One day a few weeks ago, James decided to rename Daddy to baby. He consistently calls him baba!! now. It's so funny and cute. We try to tell him, "James, that's Daddy. You are baby." But James insists that Daddy is baby now. So be it. We aren't encouraging it (because we don't want to confuse him), but still enjoying the cuteness of it while it lasts.

James and his "baby" at the pumpkin patch:

Have your kids dubbed anyone or anything a funny name?

Your Smile.

2011-11-08T22:12:00.000-06:00

I hope I always remember your smile from 15 months old and the way it makes me feel.

Those two brand new giant front teeth popping out from a goofy grin.

The way you are busily playing and your face lights up when you see me watching.

The way you laugh when Daddy and you jump together.

The giant smile you have when I give you pooty cheeks.

My heart.

My go to appetizer for parties: Easy Shrimp Dip

2011-11-07T17:24:00.003-06:00

This dish is always a hit at parties. It's a little spicy, creamy but not too rich. At the last party I brought it to, a three year old was licking it off the plate and a friend who said she did not like any seafood was eating it. You can season it alot to make it spicy or keep the seasonings at a 1/2 tsp. to have it mild. Both ways are delicious!

Prep: 10 minutes.

Ingredients:

cream cheese (I used a 1/3 less fat kind)
sour cream 8 oz
2 cans shrimp
1/2 c. chopped celery
1 small chopped onion
lemon juice
garlic powder 1/2 tsp.
red pepper flakes 1/2 tsp.
Old Bay seasoning 1/2 tsp.

Directions:

Allow the cream cheese to reach room temperature. Mix the cream cheese and sour cream. I use my stand mixer. Throw in spices. I add more than the 1/2 tsp of everything because I like my food spicy. Add chopped veggies. Add strained shrimp and lemon juice. Mix until well blended. Chill for 30 minutes. Serve with crackers.

Here is what it looks like before mixing:

And after! This easily served a party of twenty.

YUM! A smooth creamy dip!

Food poisoning + pregnancy = near death experience.

2011-11-07T08:17:00.004-06:00

Basically.

Horrible. Absolutely terrible is how three out of the four of us felt last night. This weekend my inlaws stayed with us and we told them the big news. The next day we decided to grill steaks, make lots of yummy sides, and eat pumpkin pie. The meal was wonderful. I can eat some beef consomme rice and sautéed Worcestershire mushrooms like no other.

About two hours later I found myself getting some strong stomach cramps while nursing James to sleep. I put him in his crib and walked past the fam who were mesmerized with the LSU/BAMA game, and headed straight to the potty. Very uneventful at this point.

So I laid down on the bed and the stomach cramps got much, much worse. Like, I was thinking there was a chance of going to the hospital. This stomachache rivaled labor. I kid you not. Then I got super nauseous. I was seriously writhing and moaning in pain.

I will now share too much information as I often do when talking about poop. I kept on going to the toilet thinking surely a gallon or twelve of diarrhea would be in my near future, but nothing. Want to know why? Because Zofran keeps you constipated as a brick in a wine bottle. Think about that for a sec.

Must.drink.more.water.

I was seriously wallowing in misery. Then my husband jolts into the room
and is like OUTTAMYWAYBATHROOMTOILETPOOP!! And I'm
Like no! You can't use that one because I'm planning on some serious poop and vomit soon! So he goes to the guest bathroom. THEN, my mother in law is like WHY DON'T YOU HAVE AN OUTHOUSE?! Not really. But she was sick too.

This lasted until about 1:30 am at which point I basically ~~had my funeral planned~~ fell asleep after finally reaquainted myself with the toilet.

Rough night indeed. The next day we all talked about what in the world made us so sick. Too much butter in the mushrooms? Spoiled pie? Oh wait a minute. The three of us that got sick had Wendy's burgers that afternoon. I call them murderburgers now because that was clearly their intention. Food safety, people. Use a different knife and clean the surfaces. Is that so hard?

I thank God I didn't share any with James.

Single momming it.

2011-11-02T17:37:00.000-05:00

I hate single mom nights. I won't pretend to be all "oh, James is such a breeze," because caring for a toddler by yourself from sunup to sundown is anything but a breeze.

My husband has a job in which he pretty much has to be available at the drop of a hat. So he could be preparing to come home after a 10 hour work day and literally get called to go back to work as he was driving home. And of course, he doesn't get overtime. So there is no benefit to him working so much. He is overtired. I am dead tired and James needs to be able to play with his daddy everyday. For the past two years, we couldn't even go out of town during the holidays because of his job even though he was on vacation.

Tonight is one of those nights apparently where I struggle to get my child fed and bathed and in bed by myself without puking my guts
out in the process. Not to mention that their is dog puke to clean up to. Awesome.

Hopefully down the road, there is a company that acknowledges that people have families to go home to and children that need to see their daddy.

My little Raffy

2011-11-02T08:00:00.001-05:00

James has a giraffe lovie that we call Raffy. So with the giraffe obsession, we thought why not re-use last years costume? I'm pretty sure he loved being a giraffe.

Pregnancy #2: Symptoms and how we found out!

2011-11-01T08:20:00.000-05:00

Being 7 weeks pregnant with baby #2 is kind of surreal. I never thought I'd get here this fast but this is what I've always wanted. Babies. I have one perfect, spunky little boy and now I get another precious baby. How amazing.

We weren't even really trying. I mean, obviously we didn't do too much in the way of prevention, but we weren't charting or actively timing. With my first baby, I had an unexplained infertility diagnosis and conceived naturally after 13 cycles. This baby only took ONE time. Isn't that incredible? And to me, so evident of God's timing for our lives.

Thinking back, there were a few symptoms I had before I tested positive and I was definitely suspecting since this was the first post partum cycle I was googling "bfp symptoms 5 dpo" and the like. My first red flag was at estimated 5 days past ovulation when I stood up from sitting and had super sharp cramps suddenly that lasted about an hour. Totally implantation. And I could not stop eating this salad. I was making it just so I could eat lemon drenched bacon bits! Who does that? A pregnant lady :)

I noticed the roadmap boobs at about 12 days past ovulation. My skin did not break out this time and my breasts are not sore this time at all. Probably because we are still nursing. Nursing during pregnancy is going great. 70% of women's milk dries up around 20 weeks. So we have a good three months left, I think. I have really mixed feelings about that. Mostly sad. I wanted to nurse James until two years and I am considering tandem nursing. But who knows. Right now, I'm only doing right now.

I am super exhausted and crazy nauseous. I seem to be managing the sickness better this time with the help of Zofran. I swear, I cannot survive pregnancy without that drug.

Another one of my biggest symptoms was what I thought was PMS on speed. I was SO moody and snappy. I felt like my emotions were out of control. That only lasted a week or less though, so whew.

How we found out:

We decided to buy a test at 15 dpo (one day late). We went to bible study first though and the two hour wait to go to Wal-Mart was excruciating! Once I got home, I ran to the bathroom and peed in a cup. I whispered a prayer, your will God, let it be your will. Those two dark pink lines showed up as soon as the urine hit the strip! I screamed, "Oh my gosh! Oh my gosh! D! D!" and he came to the door with James and said, "No way!" "Yes, yes! I am PREGNANT!"

and then the most priceless moment of all time happened,

James: "UH-OH!!"

Yes, he actually said uh oh when he saw my pregnancy test. Little comedian.

It's amazing, and crazy, and scary, and wonderful to be pregnant again with all the knowledge I've gained. The anticipation of a new baby, the fear of a hard labor again, the excitement of telling our families, the burden of cutting down our expenses, the simultaneous elation and fear.

But I am doing it and it's going to be awesome.

ps. they say you show faster with second babies? Uhh, you think?

6 week belly bloat

Here we go again! Two under two!

2011-10-28T12:53:00.001-05:00

James is going to be a big brother! We got to see our "little baby" on ultrasound today. His/her heart was beating at 120 bpm. I am 7 weeks today and due June 17, 2012!

Remember this post? I talked about how I had baby fever and that we were leaving it in God's hands this time? Yeah, we conceived that weekend haha! Some of you may know that it took us 13 cycles to conceive James. And this baby? one time. ONE time. Isn't that amazing?

I have so much to tell you all but I am going to go take a nap while I can! I'll post more about symptoms and how we found out next week!

The day we found out, October 9.

Two dark, pink lines. BAM.

Mama, what is that thing?

*** If you know me in real life, please keep this to yourself. Only my parents and my sister and my two best friends from college know. We will be able to tell my husband's family next week.

Say no to the mama guilt.

2011-10-27T08:30:00.000-05:00

Today was one of the only times I had to go back in the bedroom and take a nap after my husband got home from work. I missed playing with James this evening, but I needed the extra rest so badly, especially since he didn't nap today. Again. I would normally refuse to let myself do something so ~~normal~~ selfish and just fix a cup of coffee and power through it. But this is one of those days where I needed to shut down and focus on my health. It won't be the only day either.

For the past for weeks, I haven't been feeling too great in the mornings (I know. right? when is she just going to say it already?) and just lay on the couch like a moaning, dying dog while James plays on the floor by himself. Today I was SO sick we didn't go to his library time and we probably won't do his playgroup tomorrow morning. I just hope I get past this soon.

I feel bad that he is down there playing all by himself on the floor, for like, two hours with the tv on. And yep. You can bet your bottom I am using it as a babysitter right now. If I so much as move, I feel like I am going to barf all over the place. At least it's developmentally appropriate (BabyFirst TV anyone?) He does come and wake me up when he gets bored or will climb on top of me and help himself to some milk (it's really cute actually).

So hard to ignore this precious boy and sleep instead:

The play area is completely baby proofed and I am unfortunately only dozing and not actually sleeping, so he is okay to play by himself. I just wish I could be down there with him like I usually am. But, hopefully this won't last forever and he can have his full energy mommy back soon. It's just a season and I am doing the best I can. And that's the best I can do.

Wish me luck tomorrow. I have an, ahem, appointment, with a ...doctor. And then hopefully I can share some good news!

I know, I am such a tease ;)

Nightly Play Time

2011-10-25T22:32:00.000-05:00

Every night after James' bath, we have play time in his bedroom. We usually read books, play with his blinky ball, play with the stainless steel trashcan (empty, he loves it) and try to get him to eat a small snack or finish whatever supper is left. It's one of my favorite parts of the day. James is really silly at night. He sat on his Daddy's head a few times tonight! He is getting so vocal! He loves to babble (da da da DA DA DA!) and say his new words; choo choo, baby (baba) and door. I got him to say dog a few times in the video below. You can also hear a small woo woo (woof woof).

Hot dog?

2011-10-24T17:55:00.000-05:00

James has recently decided that the only meat he now likes is a hot dog. I gave him hot dog bites as a last resort to get him to eat something other than fruit and fruit loops. And? He loved it. I did get the kind that are preservative and filler free so maybe that's not so bad? I should find some turkey dogs or 100% beef dogs. I guess my concern is the sodium and nitrites. Side note: cut up hot dogs totally spark flames in the microwave. True story.

I feel like the older (and more picky) he gets, the more I compromise his nutrition just so he will eat something with fat in it. He may or may not know what McDonald's fries taste like. I know.

What meats will your toddlers eat? Do you feel like you are giving in more and more as your toddler becomes pickier?

Hiding out in his "couch cave."

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Say no to the mama guilt.

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When a toy giraffe is worth $130 {Guest Poster: Baby Shmizz}

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HOLSAVE20
12/3/2011
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DECFS20
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