Because Two People Fell In Love

27 Weeks!

2012-01-03T20:58:00.002-05:00

Baby This Week: Little girl is still about the size of an eggplant! Measuring 13.5 - 15 inches and weighing between 1.5 - 2.5 pounds! *I think that she is larger than this as she was in the 87th percentile the last time I had an ultrasound (about a week and a half ago).*

What I am Feeling: Much more consistent kicks but usually pretty low. She sometimes kicks up high but it isn't nearly as consistent. I think she prefers to have her head up. It is absolutely hysterical when I am on my laptop and she kicks it from underneath :) I love it. Watching my belly move is so magical!

Milestones This Week:

1) My parents came over on New Year's Eve and helped Rob to move furniture from the Guest Room (future nursery) into the office. We still want our full size bed available in case we have guests, so we have just consolidated the furniture of both rooms into the one office. It's tight but it works. Now that her room is empty, we can actually start getting it ready for her!

2) Hiccups! I love baby hiccups - they tickle so much when she hits my side, and I love it.

Miscellany: I am doing really well. Still somewhat comfortable, sleep is getting difficult (it just hurts my hips a bit), but just feeling anxious. I was diagnosed with Gestational Diabetes last week. I really thought that I would be fine, but it seems that I wasn't going to get through this pregnancy without a complication. However, I have been able to manage it so far with just diet! I see the High Risk doctor next week and then she can tell me whether or not I need insulin (fingers crossed I don't).

Well here is my 27 week belly pic (actually 27w, 3 days). I am feeling huge but as long as she is growing normally, that's all I care about. I still don't have any new stretch marks, but I am starting to wonder how big I am going to get! I had a run-in with a woman the other day who told me like I looked like I could deliver "any minute" and that she can't believe I have to wait till April 1. Oy. I can't believe that people are so quick to say things like that!! The last thing I wanted to hear was how huge I look. Blah.

25 Weeks!

2011-12-18T21:07:00.001-05:00

Baby This Week: Little girl is about the size of an eggplant! Measuring 13.5 - 15 inches and weighing between 1.5 - 2.5 pounds! EEEK!

What I am Feeling: She is kicking quite a bit - somedays more and somedays less. The days that she kicks less gets me a little worried, but evenings are usually her most active time. Once I can sit and really pay attention to what is going on in there, she kicks and moves and twirls!

Milestones This Week:

1) Started working on the hallway - Rob installed beautiful sconces and a new light so the hallway is much better lit. We are going to paint and install pictures frames galore to get that done, and then start work on the nursery!

2) Received the prints I have ordered for the nursery! So siked to share with you all!

Miscellany: I am doing great. We had an awesome appointment on Saturday and were feeling awesome. Unfortunately Saturday night Guiness jumped on my belly and of course my pregnant-after-loss brain got all hysterical, but she's been fine and everything I have heard/read says it is not big deal. Now we just have to focus on how to really set those boundaries for Guiness. Oy.

I hope that you all are doing great and are ready for the holidays. We are having some friends over on Friday and I am so excited :) I cannot believe the end of 2011 is nearly here! Next year we will be meeting our little baby girl! Yay!

23 Weeks!

2011-12-07T18:39:00.001-05:00

I cannot believe we are 23.5 weeks pregnant with our baby girl!

We have had a busy busy few weeks and I am still quite pooped when I get home from a long day's work.

So let's see ... I have done a lot more preparation for this little babe now that we know we are having a little girl! I think writing most of this post in list format is the only way to get everything down! Bear with me please ...

- On Black Friday Hubs and I ran a bunch of errands and came home with our little girl's crib and a changing table for only $150!! We decided on the Graco Lauren since it was so beautiful, simple, had great ratings and just... CHEAP! :) It's still in the garage but I can't wait till after the holidays when we can take the time to pull it out and start the nursery!

- Speaking of nursery - I also ordered a bunch of items on Etsy. I will be sure to provide the details once I do my nursery post (most likely in March - sorry, won't be done till then!). I am so excited about our purchases!

- We are officially decked out for Christmas now as well. We have all the lights up outside, the tree decorated, and all our nativity scenes and decorations inside the house as well! Yay for the Holidays!

- We spent last weekend in Baltimore with some friends for a babymoon. It was nice just to get away for 2 nights with hubs and friends. I didn't take many pictures but here is a pic of the beautifully lit Washington Monument!

- We went and registered for pretty much EVERYTHING at Buy Buy Baby and Babies R Us. I LOVE the service at BBB but the coupons and deals at BRU are too good to not register there as well. I registered for some of our 'big ticket' items at BRU so we can look for holiday specials and things. I can't believe we are officially registered! EEEK!

So now on to my 23 week update.

Baby This Week: Baby is about the size of a papaya! She's almost a pound and a half and measures about 9 - 10 inches long! O.M.G. I cannot believe she's getting so big!

What I am Feeling: I love feeling her move, and now I can even feel her outside. While we were visiting B-more this weekend, Rob was able to feel her too! She kicked him right in the hand and it was sooo sooo precious.

Milestones This Week:

1) Daddy feeling baby!

2) Seeing my belly move from the outside!

3) 24 weeks this weekend! Less than 3 weeks from the 3rd trimester! EEE!

Miscellany: Overall I am feeling really good. I am tired at the end of the day but not ridiculously uncomfortable yet. I am going to share a bump pic this week! I haven't been very good about taking bump pictures but I was a "big girl" to begin with and so I think it took me a bit longer to feel "pregnant" instead of just bigger! So here goes ... my nearly 24 week belly!

I feel like depending on the time of day, my bump changes shape and size. Hahaha. I think this weekend I will take a picture in the morning to see how different it looks!

And that's all folks! Hope you have a great week! xoxo

21 Weeks & Gender Reveal!

2011-11-20T20:01:00.001-05:00

Oh.My.Goodness.

The last few weeks have been a whirlwind. I am sorry I have not been posting much, but with work and making this baby, I have just been so busy and exhausted!

We had our Anatomy Scan on Monday and were SO excited to find out whether we are having a boy or a girl! We knew we had to keep it a secret until Sunday because we had planned a party where all of our family could get together and find out the gender together.

So first, my 21 week stats:

Baby This Week: Baby is about the size of a banana! Baby is about 11 inches long and actually weighed 14 ounces on Monday so probably we are at almost a pound now! EEEK!

What I am Feeling: I feel the baby move daily now. Sometimes more than others, but it's pretty much always during the day. I hardly feel the baby at night.

Milestones This Week:

1) Our anatomy scan! Everything was perfectly healthy and we have a gender!

2) We went to Buy Buy Baby and started our registry. I wanted to just get it set up so I could do some online registering and it was exhausting looking at everything!

3) We are seriously considering buying a crib on Black Friday - we are not sure if we want one from BRU or BBB because the quality is quite different, but we shall see!

Miscellany: Our Gender Reveal party! Here are the pictures:

Team Pink!

Team Blue!

Rob pulling out the cupcakes! The grandmas were too excited, they decided dessert had to happen BEFORE dinner!

Cupcakes by Cinderellie's Sweets!

And It's a GIRL! We are having a beautiful baby girl!

18 Weeks

2011-10-30T20:58:00.002-04:00

Today we are 18 weeks pregnant!

Yippee!

We are very excited for the next 15 days to go by because our anatomy scan is on 11/14 and we get to see our little one again! Fingers crossed for everything to be perfectly healthy and to be able to find out whether we are having a little boy or a little girl!

Week 18

Baby This Week: Baby is about the size of a sweet potato. Measuring about 6 inches from head to rump and weighing about 6 ounces.

What I am Feeling: I started feeling baby move more often last week. Now if I am sitting at my computer, in a meeting, or at dinner (s)he tip taps all over the place. It is usually if I am sitting forward a little that I feel it the most.

Milestones This Week: I actually had a few!

1) I got the call that I passed my gestational diabetes test! Because I am overweight and have PCOS, they asked me to do at 17 weeks and then again later in pregnancy. Normal is between 65 and 135 and I was at 115!

2) Our sequential screens came back later this week and everything came within normal range! Yay!

3) Starting to put together our "things to do" list and realizing that within the next few weeks we will be able to start registering and preparing for our baby!

I am feeling like it is getting more and more real by the day. Being pregnant after a loss is ridiculously scary, but starting to feel some movement makes me feel better. I love the little reminders that (s)he is in there safe and sound.

Miscellany: As of now I have only gained one pound. I am all belly but am eating "ok". I had a hard time eating fruits and veggies at the begging because they would make me feel sick. I am loving salads the most at this point and am just trying to remember to keep eating fruits now too.

I recently bought a snoogle pillow and I am loving it. I honestly couldn't sleep without it! Guiness is also a really big fan of the pillow:

(it's under the comforter but you can see where he is sleeping in the area I would normally put my legs)

Last weekend Rob and I went to a Jets game with my family. We aren't big football followers but I went to Penn State and absolutely love love love tailgating and football so we had a good time. The only thing I realized is that walking to the stadium, sitting in tiny uncomfortable seats, and walking all the way back to the car was EXHAUSTING. I won't be going to anything like that for awhile.

(Here we are at the game!)

Hope everyone is doing well! XoxoX

16 Weeks

2011-10-16T19:56:00.002-04:00

Oh.My.Goodness.

I cannot believe how awful I have been at blogging recently.

So much has happened since my last few posts and I have been awful at taking pictures of all of the wonderful weekends we have had.

Last weekend was my sister-in-law Laura's wedding and it was absolutely amazing!!

Here are some pictures from the day!

Everything was absolutely gorgeous!!

Here is a candid of Rob and I at the rehearsal dinner. <3 him!

So now an update at 16 weeks:

We have been doing really well. Yesterday was Maveric's due date and Pregnancy and Infant Loss Rememberance Day so that was very hard on us, but otherwise we are doing ok. Baby is still in there with a strong heartbeat!

Our next appointment is on Saturday October 22nd and our Anatomy Scan is scheduled for 11/14. We are very excited to find out whether we are having a little boy or girl and start really planning!

So far I have had some dreams about baby boys but not OUR baby boy. Just babies in general. Rob has had a dream about us with a baby girl, so who knows!!

I am definitely showing now. Being a bigger girl to begin with has certainly made the bump obvious :) But that's ok - my belly is hard and definitely starts a lot higher than pre-pregnancy. Sometimes I catch myself with my hands on my belly - I think just to remind myself that this is really real.

Being pregnant after a loss is so scarey. I have been over analyzing every twinge, cramp, ache, pull, etc. I just keep trying to remind myself that my uterus is growing and everything is moving. The pangs never really last more than a few seconds so I keep trying to remind myself that everything SHOULD be sore! I am just a paranoid person in general and keep trying to remind myself that we got this far, changes are we are bringing this baby home!!

We are so in love and really looking forward to the next ultrasound on 11/14! Yay!

XoXoX

12 weeks

2011-09-30T07:00:00.000-04:00

I can't believe I haven't written a post in 3 weeks baby!

We have been able to find you using our at-home doppler and we are so excited every time that we hear that beautiful thump thump thump.

We are having a party with some of your future faux aunt and uncles to tell them that we are expecting you to join the family next April! We are really excited and can't wait to celebrate your expected arrival.

Both Mommy and Daddy's work know about you now and so do all of your family in Maine! Everyone was so excited and can't wait to meet you (but make sure you keep on cooking in there for a good long while)!!

Love you baby! xoxox

9 weeks

2011-09-29T07:51:00.000-04:00

Dear Taddy!

We got to see you again yesterday. You were measuring perfectly with a beautiful heartbeat of 169 bpm again!

I could see your beautiful head and heart and the little paddles that are the beginning of your little legs.

We are so in love with you and get to see you again in 4 weeks.

I can't wait baby. We love you and are so glad you chose us to be your parents.

XoXoX

8 weeks

2011-09-28T07:22:00.000-04:00

I am getting nervous little one.

Daddy and I are anxiously waiting for our next ultrasound on the 27th. You had such a strong beautiful heart when we met you 2 weeks ago, and I just desperately hope and pray that you are still in there growing and healthy.

You mean everything to me and I hope that God's plan is for you to come home with us near April 1, 2012.

Love your Mommy and Daddy.

Update: Sunday (8/21) I had a little bit of spotting. Went to the doctor's the next day and got to see you again! Measuring 7w6d with a heartbeat of 169 bpm.

Daddy wasn't able to make it so he can't wait to see you on Saturday!

You look like a little turtle today love!

7 weeks

2011-09-27T07:39:00.000-04:00

Today I am 7 weeks pregnant with Taddy.

This has been an amazing week.

Monday morning I went in to get my last set of betas drawn. The number was 14,566 which meant that the number definitely doubled within the 72 hour time frame!

I had my ultrasound on Monday night. Robert and I were so anxious and hopeful that this would be different and thankfully, it was.

We saw Taddy. With a beautiful, strong heartbeat. The sac was perfect and measured EXACTLY 6w1d. Taddy's heartbeat was the most beautiful sound we had ever heard at 117 beats per minute it was even stronger than the technician expected.

Rob and I were so blown away and are soooo excited. We immediately texted our parents with a picture of Taddy saying, "Hi Grandma and Grandpa. I have a heartbeat!"

Now we are just holding our breath till our next ultrasound appointment on August 27th where I will be nearly 9 weeks.

*fingers crossed for a healthy sticky baby*

6 Weeks

2011-09-26T07:44:00.000-04:00

Today, August 7th, I am 6 weeks pregnant with Taddy.

Robert and I have been calling this baby Taddy since it looks like a tadpole right now.

Tomorrow is my first ultrasound.

At 5 weeks, my HCG was 2590

at 5 weeks 2 days, my HCG was 4774.

Doubled after 55 hours which fits well into the 48 - 72 hour time frame.

I pray that this little baby is sticky. According to my calculations we are due on April 1, 2012.

We have already told our immediate families about Taddy. We knew that if something did go wrong we would want them to support us and know what was happening, and this means they should also have the opportunity to be happy with us. Telling everyone was absolutely amazing. Now we are just praying we get to also tell them that our Taddy shows us his/her heartbeat tomorrow.

I will not be publishing this until we make Taddy known to the rest of our friends and family, but will continue to document along the way.

News!

2011-09-25T11:43:00.000-04:00

Good morning all!

I have some amazing news to share with all of you today.

Rob and I are expecting!

Our little one is due April 1st 2012!

Today we are 13 weeks pregnant and so elated! I have been writing posts nearly every week since we found out, so I will start to share those.

I am sorry I haven't been posting much otherwise, I have been sleeping so much and was focussing on growing this baby as healthy as I possibly could.

Here is Robert with Baby's picture at our last ultrasound on Wednesday.

Baby was measuring 12w6d!

We are so in love and pray each day that this is our take*home baby!

Back from Vacation

2011-09-11T19:28:00.000-04:00

We have been away for almost a week now visiting our family and friends in Maine.

We had an absolutely amazing time and my cousin's wedding was beautiful (another post about this later this week).

Here are some pictures of us at the beach!

Me, Mom and Sister Cindy

Hubby and I with Guiness

We had a great time picking up Sand Dollars and Seashells

And my favorite picture of the day!

(all taken with my iPhone)

xoXox

Irene!

2011-08-27T22:28:00.002-04:00

Hurricane Irene!

We are now waiting out the storm. It's raining here in New Jersey and it's only supposed to get windier and rainier over the next 12 - 24 hours. Where we live it is very easy to get flooded in to a certain area so we are eagerly anticipating how bad it will really be. We are most concerned about all of the trees in our backyard.

Please pray that hurricane Irene spares our home and our neighborhood.

Thanks! Will update tomorrow night and how we are doing!

5 months?

2011-08-20T15:08:00.001-04:00

I seriously cannot believe that it has been 5 months since we lost our baby.

I was thinking about it the other day and we would currently be 2 months away from giving birth to Maveric. Rob and I have been talking about what we should do on October 15th to remember him, but haven't made any official plans.

What did you ladies out there who have experienced loss do to remember you little angels?

Super Mario Party

2011-08-07T19:55:00.002-04:00

I honestly cannot believe how long it has been since I posted. I am SO sorry to all of you readers out there.

Things have been absolutely crazy around here.

We have been trying desperately to do some work around the house and I have been having some random health things going on that needed a little attention

(don't worry - I am ok).

So I wanted to tell you all about my Sister-In-Law's absolutely amazing 25th Birthday Party. She is a lover of Super Mario Kart and decided that she wanted to have a Super Mario Kart themed party.

My Father-In-Law started only mowing where the obstacle course would be. Everyone had to bring a Kart of some sort, and everyone had to come in costume. Rob and I supplied the cake as Christiane's Birthday present which was OF COURSE decorated by Cinderellie's Sweets!

Here are the pictures and a video at the end. I completely forgot my camera so all were taken with my iPhone (sorry!)!

The amazingly fab Birthday Cake!

Rob and I were Mario and Luigi and Guiness was Yoshi! Rob and I made the costume with felt, thread and velcro. It came out really cute and he basically just chilled all afternoon.

My lovely little family!

<3Love

Rob was getting ready for the party and wanted to check out the obstacle course on his Sister's bike. Guiness was chasing him the entire way around :)

I promise I will be back sooner rather than later. XoxoX.

Farmers Market Love

2011-07-21T05:43:00.001-04:00

I feel like I have mentioned the Farmer's Market in previous posts but never officially wrote a post about my area Farmer's Market.

Now - the Farmer's Market doesn't know that I am writing about it and I would rather not tell the entire world wide web exactly where I live (wink) so I am sorry - but I am just going to have to tell you that it is in your BEST interest to find your area Farmer's Market and utilize it as MUCH as possible.

We love this Farmer's Market. It is a part of our weekend routine because it gives us the opportunity to purchase sooo many fruits and veggies (and more) with such little money!

Hubs is my list*holder while I bag! We love this shelf of spices! Less than $3 for each of these HUGE bottles! We bought Cayenne Pepper for Chicken with Avocado Lime Salsa (will post that recipe later this week)!

Had to add a little loving in here! He was sleeping when we came home and then started whining while I set up for the picture below. He just wanted hugs!

So we normally spend less than $40 at the Farmers Market but this week they had Coconut Milk, Almond Milk and Chicken Broth! Normally these each cost more than $4 at the Grocery store but instead we got these for $2.99 each.

I adore this Farmer's Market. It's open year round and it helps me to be so much healthier. After we stop at the Farmer's Market and buy our fruits and veggies, we drive across the street (yes, directly across the street) to the Grocery Store and get our meats! It's the best $$ saver ever!

Ok - Plug over! I promise that Farmer's Markets across the world have no idea I am writing this (wink). I just really really love my area Farmer's Market!

Roebling Weekend!

2011-07-17T20:19:00.002-04:00

Hi Everyone!

I am sorry I have been so MIA recently. However - I have LOTS to update you on this week!

First - Saturday was the 2nd Annual Roebling Museum Car Show! My Father-In-Law put it together and you can see the article for the show here.

Two of my sister-in-laws and I were responsible for selling water. We basically rode a Gator around for 4 hours making money for the museum! It was SUCH a beautiful day and everyone had a great time! Here are some pictures for you (disclaimer: they were taken with my iPhone):

This one was taken by my Father-In-Law (too good to be a phone pic :))

Me, Christiane and Diana; aka The Gator Girls

Roebling Museum's American Flag. Picture filtered with Instagram

Look at that beautiful smile!

He always humors my picture taking .... hahaha

Pointing to their branch of the tree (and Rob just thinks we are crazy)!

It was an awesome and perfect day! If you are in the Jersey Area - you should plan to come next year!!

Update!

2011-07-15T18:50:00.002-04:00

Had all my tests done today. We will know Wednesday what the deal is.

P.S. We are on our way to see HP 7.2! Yay!
P.P.S. We have a big day planned tomorrow at the Roebling Museum in Roebling, NJ. If you are in the area and like vintage automobiles, you should come!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Broken Heart?

2011-07-13T21:14:00.002-04:00

I am sorry I have not been posting much.

I've been having some very strange health issues. I actually spent my Friday afternoon/evening in the ER getting a whoooole lotta tests done.

I am ok but my chest is just going through some really strange twinges and weird movements.

My doctors thought it was a pulmonary embellism (that's how I ended up in the ER), then they thought it was my lungs, now it's my heart.

Tomorrow I go to the doctor and get hooked up to a heartbeat monitor for 24 hours, then Friday I am using a Personal Day so I can get a stress test done (awwwesome) and an echocardiogram.

I'm sure everything will turn out all right. My new cardiologist already said that he doesn't think there is any need to worry - but we shall see. I have my fingers and toes crossed (so does hubster).

I promise I will post some more this weekend. I miss you all oh so much!

But I have to give you a picture of this little man before I go ... he's too precious for words.

Feel free to follow me on instagram - jdarby23!

July 4th Weekend

2011-07-05T17:53:00.001-04:00

We had an absolutely fantastic weekend!

Friday afternoon we left to go camping with some dear friends. I have loads of pictures to share with you!

We actually camped Friday night and Saturday night with a HUGE storm that came through Saturday night. The entire tent got SOAKED inside and out. So waking up Sunday morning was less than lovely and required a quick clean up considering that there was more rain still coming! (ick)

Here are pictures of the good friends, food and times we had!

Eric our Camping Chef!

I <3 those eyes {and him of course}

The guys doing the cooking.

Rob was making his pizza and five-starred my butt with flour!!!

Ellie with our Kabobs!

mmm mmm Good

I look like a mess (that's what no shower in 2 days does to you!)

Garrett's side eye!

We also played a little with my camwow Application! Hahaha. Pretty in pink.

So after we left our amazing camping adventure (we have actually done this for the past ten years except for one year that we missed), we went out to breakfast and said our goodbyes. It was sooo great to see everyone!

Sunday night when we went to my parents house to pick up my beautiful puppy dog and visit with them. My dad and sister just returned home from being in Austria for a week. My sister is an amazing Opera singer who was in a competition in Vienna for the week. Unfortunately she did not win, but she's amazing anyway! <3

Then on Monday we spent the fourth of July with my in-loves! Spent the afternoon at the pool with the puppies, had an amazing dinner together, and then enjoyed some fireworks! Here are some pictures from the fourth of July!

Beautiful NJ Sunset!

Kevin & Freddy!

Guiness' haircut!

Diana and Oscar!

Sunset via instagram (follow me - I'm @ jdarby23)

Gloria and Freddy!

Beautiful!

Rob and his Dad setting 'em off!

I hope everyone had a beautiful and safe fourth of July! I certainly did!

Operation Dog House: Day 4

2011-07-04T12:59:00.001-04:00

I have so much to update you all on! We went camping over the weekend and now today we have amazing 4th of July plans with my in-laws.

But first, I want to tell you about what happened on Thursday of last week; day 4 of Operation Dog House.

WE HAD SUCCESS!

I gave him the new bone in the morning and when we got home, everything was in it's place except for 1 sandal which Guiness didn't even chew! He just moved it to the couch to lay with it (hahaha. ew).

So we are officially a crate free home right now.

I am not holding my breath that things will go perfectly next week, but at least now we know that it can be done!

And of course, Happy 4th of July everyone!

I hope you are enjoying it with your family and friends!

Operation: Dog House, Day 3

2011-06-29T21:33:00.001-04:00

Soooo ... the past two days have been much better than the first.

Yesterday we found that he had chewed up our home phone a bit, but that was basically it.

And today he found a wedding card that we had saved and ripped that apart.

All in all, he is getting better.

I have a few other things that I want to try over the next few days.

1) I want to give him a special bone tomorrow - a brand new one he has never seen before. I am hoping to make this his 'home by myself' bone.

2) If that doesn't work - I am going to take him for a long walk/run in the morning (this would be on Wednesday since that would be the next day he is home alone.

I am really hopeful ladies! I just hope he keeps getting better and better!

Go Guiness!

Bad Dog!

2011-06-27T20:26:00.001-04:00

Oy. It has been so long since I last posted. I am SOOO sorry! Especially since this is ICLW week and I have had such lovely visitors!

Tonight I am going to share some drama from today and then some specifics from our lovely evening!

So we have been trying desperately on and off for the last few months to get Guiness to the point where we can give him the whole house while we are away at work. The last time that we did this, he ended up chewing up some books and papers - so we took the house away.

Now we are DETERMINED to let him have the whole house. He is almost 2.5 years old and I am so sick of the gates in the house. It is definitely time.

So yesterday I cleaned the whole house. I 'Guiness-proofed' and got rid of all books that he could get his teeth on. I even put the gates that used to keep him in the kitchen, in front of our two book cases so he didn't get tempted to go for those anymore.

I left him with ALL of his toys this morning, and his favorite antler chew.

And THIS is what I came home to.

*all photos taken with my iPhone*

~First I saw my sneaker in the middle of the living room, and then realized all these flowers were scattered around~

~Yup. He pulled my dried wedding bouquet from our living room and pulled it into pieces. Thankfully he didn't eat any of the pins, but half of my bouquet is missing now (if you look in the background you will see where the rest of the flowers went)~

I honestly cannot believe that he did this. He left his antler chew in the EXACT same spot that it was this morning. Grrrrrr.

Thankfully, he is a cute puppy.

*picture taken yesterday*

So my question is....

how did you all get your dogs to behave during the day?

I am just at my wits end here. When we came home we showed him the mess and yelled, and he knew as soon as I walked in, but I am not sure what else I can do. We are going to just keep trying and trying but I would love some input.

Now after that, I decided it was time to get dinner cooking. When I went grocery shopping this weekend I decided to try a few new things.

First, I made Kale Chips.

Mmmmmm.

So you preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Put some foil or parchment paper on a cookie sheet. Cut the kale stems off and take just the leaves and cut into bite sized pieces (I just used kitchen shears). Then put all the kale on the cookie sheet and drizzle with olive oil, salt and a bit of chili powder (all to taste). We ATE those babies UP!!! hahaha! Rob was like - these taste ALMOST like potato chips. Mmmmm they were sooo good!

Then I made stir fry to go with the Salmon we were having for dinner. We actually decided to try those cedar planks for the salmon and it was mmm mmm good.

I put baby bok choy, garlic, onion, and yellow & green zucchini into the stir fry. I would have added peppers too but I am doing a gut cleanse with my nutritionist right now and I can't have peppers.

More pictures:

~Plank~

~Oil, Garlic, Onion, Zucchini~

*in that order - about 2 minutes in between each*

~Baby BokChoy Stems~

~Added the stems, then 2 minutes later, the Baby BokChoy Leaves~

~My Favorite Taste Tester~

It was all absolutely delicious. We also shared a yam with a pat of butter and some cinnamon and that just was mmm mmm the perfect end to the meal.

Deliciousness all around!

xoxox

They're Here!

2011-06-21T21:20:00.001-04:00

I was just letting little man out to use the backyard and noticed SOOO many fireflies!

I tried to take a video of them all going off at different times, but unfortunately it was just too dark and didn't come out the way I hoped it would.

On a separate note, I forgot to tell you all about my weekend (silly me)!

We had a good weekend except for feeling super sick. I had to work on Saturday for a work function but it was a family festivity so Rob came and helped all day and then my parents came for the afternoon.

I work in a Manufacturing facility so protective equipment required :)

It was a fun day even though I was absolutely miserable and suffered through my head cold all day.

Sunday was just spent recovering. Rob started to feel sick, I hurt my ear blowing my nose and it was just a mess. That's when I decided that going to the Doctor's yesterday was essential.

Oh ear infections. How I loathe thee!

Super Sicko

2011-06-20T22:02:00.002-04:00

It's official.
I am sickly.
Upper Respiratory Infection.
Double Ear Infection.
Ick.

Happy Father's Day

2011-06-19T12:57:00.002-04:00

Today is a wonderful day to celebrate wonderful Dads.

I love my Dad to pieces. He is amazing and protective and loving and wonderful.

I remember him throwing a baseball so high in the air that I couldn't see it anymore. I thought he was the best baseball player in the whole wide world.

I remember when I first had my heartbroken in the 5th grade and he was home and I just went downstairs and cried and cried. He was my shoulder to lean on.

I remember when my leg fell through a rotted board on our dock and I couldn't get myself out. He was there within seconds to lift me right up.

He's always there when I need him - he's my Daddy.

Me, My Dad, and My Sister on my Wedding Day.

And to my Husband - who is a Daddy to Guiness and to our Angel Baby:

I love you, adore you, and cherish you.

You are my everything and you will be an amazing Dad.

I can't wait to see how Fatherhood looks on you.

XoXoX

3 Months

2011-06-16T12:25:00.001-04:00

Yesterday marked 3 months since we lost Maveric.

I am doing much better than I have been, but still feel lost sometimes. I'm supposed to be 22 weeks pregnant and planning a nursery and growing a belly.

Instead I am home sick today with an awful cold/sorethroat/runnynose.

I miss you baby and I hope you now how much your daddy and I love you.

XoXoX

Weird Schedule

2011-06-14T10:43:00.001-04:00

I am home right now getting ready to go into work.

I am working from 1pm till 2am today. Oy!

Then tomorrow I am going to just work in the afternoon so I can get my schedule back on track.

Tonight my husband will be picking me up for an evening date so I can actually eat some dinner!

Oh how I love him!

Found this beautiful picture on Pinterest!

Weekend Update

2011-06-12T20:59:00.002-04:00

What a wonderful weekend!

Friday we went to my In-Love's house and enjoyed a ride in the 1915 Model T, dinner, and all around fun!

Then on Saturday we went on a car tour with the Model T (SO much fun)! Driving around in that car is SUCH a good time! The day started off really rainy and gross, but ended up being perfect.

My hair was an absolute disaster all day!

Afterwards we went to Lambertville where Rob and I got married and walked around with the fam! Looked at antiques, puppy stores and consignment shops!

What a goober!

And lastly, here is a 'photosynth' picture of the view from the Lambertville, NJ bridge. It was a cloudy day but gorgeous! I used the photosynth application on my iphone to take pictures from the bridge all the way across!

Hope you all had a great weekend!

Pin-obsessed

2011-06-09T21:58:00.001-04:00

Soooo ready for the weekend!

I have to tell you - I have become obsessed with Pinterest!

I just cannot believe how much fun it is to pin things that I enjoy.

I know that we are not pregnant again and probably won't be for some time - but I LOVE LOVE LOVE pinning baby ideas and things like that! It's just is so great to be able to store all of these wonderful ideas!

I found this one pin that really got to me:

{purchase here}

Love this!

Our Weekend

2011-06-06T17:45:00.001-04:00

Good afternoon all!

I am home sick today (sad*face) but feeling much better now than I did this morning.

I wanted to share my weekend with you quickly before I go back to laying on the couch with puppy!

Friday

On Friday my dear friend Kelly was visiting home from Oregon! A few friends came over to visit with her and it was just so amazing to be with her again! We were friends in high school and roommates in college! I didn't take any pictures Friday night :(

Saturday

Saturday was my Sister-In-Love's bridal shower! She was visiting from Martha's Vineyard and her shower was just wonderful! Here are a few pictures of the day!

Centerpieces were gorgeous!

Cynthia was the creator of the picture boards!

How cute is this?! My hubs is Laura's younger brother (the one squirting her with the hose)!

The Bride-To-Be!

The Maid of Honor!

I tried to get artsy with this one and just color the flip flops :) Not sure if I love it yet.

I was in charge of the ribbon hat! Looking mighty fine if I do say so myself!

SO TRUE!!!! <3

Sunday

Sunday was when I started to feel like crud. I spent all day on the couch and still went to bed feeling awful. Last night I hardly got a wink of sleep and woke up feeling even worse.

Hopefully on the mend now!

XoXoX

Happy Belated Birthday Dad-In-Love

2011-05-31T05:48:00.002-04:00

My wonderful Father In Law celebrated his birthday a week ago!

We had a wonderful time celebrating with family and friends and having an extreeeemely delicious cake!

My In-Laws are wonderful people and I love them oh so very much!

Ohhhh so many candles! :)

Channeling the fire!

Blew them all out in one breath!

Dad with all his kiddies! :) What a beautiful picture!

Happy Belated Birthday Dad! So glad we were there to share the day!

Memorial Day

2011-05-30T21:48:00.001-04:00

I had a lovely weekend.

I spent the weekend with my family and friends honoring the Veterans that have made our lives and freedom possible.

Here are some pictures of my weekend and a video of a friend's puppy playing tug of war with Guiness' leash.

Soooo cute!

Fab Friday!

2011-05-27T05:49:00.002-04:00

Why is this Friday so Fab?

3 day weekend ... boo yah!

Get to see my sister tomorrow!

Gettin' my hair did tomorrow!

Maaaaaybe getting a massage too!

I <3 Fridays!

100th Post!

2011-05-26T06:42:00.000-04:00

I have to say it - I am proud of myself.

This is officially my 100th post. I have started blogs before but after a few posts, I just lost interest and didn't keep on posting!

I am so excited to continue on posting and make it to 200 posts!

Hope you all are having a wonderful day and are ready for Fabulous Friday!

Change.

2011-05-25T06:51:00.001-04:00

I heard this on Glee last night and it rings SO true:

I've heard it said that people come into our lives for a reason

bringing something we must learn

well I don't know if I believe that's true

but I know that I'm who I am today because I knew you

Billysburg!

2011-05-24T17:22:00.000-04:00

This past weekend, Rob and I visited a dear friend of our's with some other friends!

We spent the weekend at the pool, in the hot tub, hanging out, visiting Williamsburg, VA and having a grand old time!

Here are some pictures from the weekend!

Such a fun and fabulous weekend!

Yet Another Fab Friday!

2011-05-20T04:41:00.000-04:00

I am so excited!

I get to spend a long weekend with my hubs and I am OH so excited!

I have Monday AND Tuesday off of next week. I am so happy to just be able to relax!!! Yay!

SO much to be thankful for on this Fab Friday!

XoXoX

Worldless Wednesday

2011-05-18T06:19:00.003-04:00

Movie Reviews

2011-05-17T06:30:00.000-04:00

Rob and I have been to a few movies over the past couple months.

I thought I would take a few minutes to let you know what I thought.

{via}

I absolutely loved this movie. It was definitely NOT a movie to see with your parents, or your children as it is quite raunchy. But it just made me laugh out loud so many times. It was the perfect movie to just sit and enjoy. All of the actors and actresses were just amazing and played their parts perfectly.

{via}

Thor is another movie we have seen over the last few weeks. I liked the action of the movie and frankly Thor is just a sexy sexy man! However, it left a lot to be desired at the end. Rob said it very well, "I felt like the movie ended at the same place it started." Rob also said that they are making a lot of these Marvel movies in hopes of setting up a new Avengers Series. Well ... I would probably still see those series because I love Marvel ... but I would only give this movie 1 thumbs up. If you aren't in love with action movies or super heroes ... wait and rent it {again - simply my opinion}.

Have you seen any new movies recently that you would recommend?

Please share!

HairCut

2011-05-16T08:00:00.000-04:00

Sooooo ... I got my hairs cut this weekend.

I am not sure that I like how she styled it (pictured here) so I am excited to try to style it on my own.

What do you think?

Nap*Time

2011-05-15T08:08:00.000-04:00

This is what naptime looks like at my house.

Time on the couch with Guiness on my legs.

I know I share way too many pictures of this puppy ... but I hope you are not tired of him yet!

XoXoX

Whino!

2011-05-14T14:53:00.000-04:00

Usually Guiness is a very well behaved little dog.

The areas where he could improve in his behavior would be when food is around, or when he gets bored and we are not home - he likes to find things to destroy.

I was able to record him begging today. I usually do not let him go on this long but I wanted to show you how silly his whining is! O.M.G. he is so cute!

2 months

2011-05-13T22:35:00.000-04:00

It has now been two months since we lost Maveric.

Sometimes I still have these moments where I just honestly cannot believe that we are going through this. I must say that it got worse before it started to get better for me. When we first heard the news there was a part of me that felt like I had known it was too good to be true all along. I just went into my shell and stayed there for weeks.

Then when I started to try to get back to life, I realized how hard it really was going to be. I have just been so angry at everything and didn't know how to get back to the happy person I used to be.

I am happy to say that although each day is a challenge still, I have started to get back to my old joyful self. I will never forget that I lost my baby, but I am starting to look forward to the month where we can talk about trying again. I didn't ever think I would get here when I was feeling all that fresh pain from losing Maveric ... but I am almost there.

One of my dearest friends shared a really great quote with me today. He was watching Private Practice last night and shared this:

A woman said to the other Dr something like “Look at you, your beautiful, a Dr, talented… God’s got to challenge you with something every once in a while.” Ok – that’s a bad re-quote but I cannot find the exact quote online. Anyway, the point is people have to get challenged with obstacles in our lives from time to time. For two reasons, 1) because even though obstacles can be painful, we learn and grow because of them and 2) so we can appreciate all of the good times and things we are blessed by having in our lives.

My dear friend is right. I am getting there. I try to remember each day how grateful for all of the amazing things in my life (especially my husband, family and friends). It just is so much harder to do now than it ever was in the past.

So here are some pictures to help me remember all of the amazing things I am thankful for in the midst of all this pain.

Thank you all for your support and love in the last 2 months. We truly appreciate your understanding.

XoXoX

Wordless(ish) Wednesday

2011-05-11T07:40:00.000-04:00

Oh that face!

That is me all the way up there! 40+ feet high!

Hope you all have an amazing Wednesday!

Hope.

2011-05-08T23:10:00.001-04:00

Today was a tough day for me.

So I have been reminding myself of this:

And I realize that although I still hurt, I am very lucky in so many other ways.

Specifically for the amazing, loving and supportive husband I have by my side.

XoXoX

Fabulous Friday!

2011-05-06T05:00:00.001-04:00

Thank Goodness it is Friday! I am so ready for this weekend!

- Tonight we are going to see Thor. Yay for date night!

- Tomorrow we have my sister-in-law's engagement party! Yay!

- Sunday I fly out to Florida for a 1 day training and then fly right back (not so yay).

But excited for the training.

Hope you have a fab Friday and weekend too!

Wordless Wednesday!

2011-05-04T21:03:00.000-04:00

Waiting for Daddio to get home.

Yay for the Weekend

2011-05-02T18:36:00.001-04:00

This weekend was super fabulous!

Friday we went to a Classic Car Show that was basically a bunch of parked antique cars on a Main Street with vendors outside and lots of families and dogs. It was my first night home from Arkansas and it was so nice being with the husband and the puppy. We had a great time!

Saturday we picked up my new car!

We had started looking at cars when we realized that my car may be totaled. Well ... it was totaled and I was able to get the car I wanted. A beautiful 2011 Ford Fusion!

Driving away after our purchase!

Rob and Mom enjoying the view

Sooooo purty!

Then Saturday afternoon I spent some time shopping with my Mom and then going to dinner and getting ice cream. My little puppy tagged along with us and was drooling all over the ice cream!

Little man got a haircut Saturday morning!

Then on Sunday I went shopping with the love of my life.

Those beautiful blue eyes get me every time!

We both love this new car! Wish that it wasn't a necessity to get, but still we are enjoying the ride!

Hope you all had a great weekend too!

Leap of Faith

2011-05-01T13:13:00.000-04:00

I am back ladies!

I left for Arkansas reallly early Monday morning and came back realllly late Thursday night.

When we arrived in Arkansas on Monday we made our way to the site but were faced with severe tornado warning. The group and I had to stay in a storage closet throughout the event to make sure that we were away from all windows.

Luckily the tornado broke apart before it made it's way to us.

Here is a picture of me during the event. I had just climbed forty feet up a tree and then jumped off of a platform! It was certainly an adrenaline high.

I am very excited to be home with the love of my life and be back with all of you!

Hope you had a wonderful week!

XoXoX

Leaving on a Jet Plane!

2011-04-25T06:00:00.001-04:00

I am going to be away for a few days for a work-related event! I will try to blog using my cell, but not sure how much access I will have.

If you don't hear from me, that is why! I will be back for posts on Friday and to share pictures of my new car!

The insurance company officially let us know on Friday night that they are going to total my car (which is a blessing since there was frame damage). We already picked out our new car and get to bring it home on Saturday!! Yay!

Have a great week everyone! Talk to you soooon!

Philly Fun!

2011-04-24T21:38:00.000-04:00

This past weekend my dear family from Maine came to visit us in New Jersey. We also spent some time visiting my sister in Philadelphia. Here are some pictures of our beautiful Sunday fun!

Had such a great time with my amazing family! XoXoX

Happy Easter!

2011-04-24T08:36:00.001-04:00

Hope you all are spending your day with loved ones!

I leave you with a picture of Guiness and the sheep his G-Ma bought for him! He LOVES it!

It was taken with my brand new iPhone!!! Yay!

Please be a FAB Friday!

2011-04-22T07:43:00.000-04:00

So if you read my blog last weekend, you would have seen that my plans for a Fabulous Friday really did not turn out that way. My car was hit in our office parking lot and it was just a disaster. We are still waiting for the final verdict because the car is 'borderline totaled'. It has frame damage so it will most likely be totaled and I can get the new 2011 Ford Fusion Rob and I have on hold. *fingers crossed*

But this Friday I am going to the movies with my Hubs and some friends to see Water for Elephants. I never read the book although I really wanted to do so before seeing the movie. But whatevs :)

Tomorrow I am going to Jersey City to get measured for my Sister In Luv's bridesmaid's dress for her wedding! I am so excited for her!

So I will let you know if today really turns out Fab <3

Hope that YOU have a Fabulous Friday!

Puppy Love

2011-04-21T21:28:00.000-04:00

I have so been looking forward to Spring and last week I decided to take my favorite little puppy out for a walk while waiting for my hub*star to come home. Here are some pictures from our walking and then grilling adventure!

Getting ready to go on our walk

His ears blowing in the wind <3

Daddy came home! <3

(he actually picked us up)

Then we made an awesome dinner!

Mmmm ...

Of course Guiness wants some too!

Hoping for lots more days like this in the near future!

XoXoX

You aren't going to believe this ...

2011-04-18T19:01:00.000-04:00

So ... I was really hopeful that last Friday would be fabulous because all signs pointed to FAB!

However .... at about 3 p.m. on Saturday .... something very very bad happened. VERY bad ...

An employee at my office went to park her car, and somehow missed the brake and hit the gas ...

This is what happened:

Yes ladies and gentlemen .... my car is the blue one.

It USED to be parked in the spot to the left of the Gray car. The driver came behind my car and hit it SO hard that it swerved and landed on top of the gray car.

O.M.G.

Now we are just waiting to hear whether or not they are going to total my car. I am driving a rental right now and I just really wish I knew what was going on. My car was SOOO close to paid off ... I can't believe this is happening.

So my Fab Friday didn't end very Fab.

Fabulous Friday!

2011-04-15T07:43:00.000-04:00

Wanna know what is fabulous? That it is Friday!

I have family arriving from Maine tomorrow that I am so excited to see!

I get to sleep in with my hub*star tomorrow morning!

The sun is ALREADY out!

A friend of our's is visiting tonight!

Sunday we are going to Philadelphia to visit my sister and get some good food!

Husband and I are on day 3 of our detox and doing great! I am SO proud of him!

All of our plants are budding now! Spring is officially here!

So happy to be having a Fab Friday and a Wonderful Weekend!

If you are having a Fab Friday then go link up with Laura!

XoXoX

One Month.

2011-04-14T21:17:00.000-04:00

I honestly cannot believe that it has been 1 month since we lost Maveric.

I am torn between feeling like it has been years and feeling like it's been minutes.

I did a pretty good job of keeping my mind off of things today. I worked hard all day and when I finally came home, I immediately took puppy for a walk. He was sooooo happy :)

Then we ate dinner out on the patio and enjoyed the beautiful sunshine!

I will be sure to post pictures tomorrow as I celebrate Fabulous Friday but right now I am going to snuggle with my hubs and veg out.

xoXox

Finding the Strength

2011-04-12T20:48:00.000-04:00

"God built man to do limitless things, and he gave us the strength we need to do them all. but one thing mother nature didn't take into account: God didn't build us with the strength needed to bury our own child." -Allen P.

Weekend Recap!

2011-04-11T21:03:00.000-04:00

Soooo. We had a really great weekend.

Saturday was supposed to be the day that we told all of our friends about Maveric so I was really worried about how I would deal... but I am really proud of how I handled it. I even talked about him a little bit and didn't break down crying!

Here are some pictures of Saturday night at my dear friend Ellie's grand opening extravaganza!

Christiane (my lovely SIL) and Hubs

Clayton and Eric

Jen, Kevin and Beach (Kevin)

Me & My Love

Isn't he cute with Cannoli on his nose!

Clayton and I

And the Hostess to the *mostest* dear Miss Ellie (and her hubs Eric).

She had this amazing set up (I can't believe I didn't take ONE picture of cupcakes) of desserts, entrees and lots of other things. It was just amaaaaazing. Definitely go to her website to check out some more!

So Saturday was good. It really was wonderful!

Sunday .... ehhhh ... didn't start off so great. We were preparing to bring my sister our extra Queen size bed on Sunday morning. We had planned this quite a while ago before we even knew we were pregnant (Cindy and her boyfriend had been sleeping on a full size bed).

However, when Rob emptied our guest room (which would be Maveric's nursery) I just lost it. I honestly couldn't handle the room being empty. I cried for the first time in a week and then Rob hugged me and told me that the nursery would be full some day and I felt better.

I am getting there folks.

We are getting there.

XoXoX

GTKY Sunday!

2011-04-10T20:17:00.000-04:00

Getting to know you from:
1. Do you watch/read the news?I usually have the news on all morning when I am getting ready so I can listen to the stories that actually interest me. Then when I get home from work I usually turn the news on while I make dinner. So watch mostly!
2. How would you describe your "look"?I am a cute-casual type. I love jeans and cute tops and accessories. I try to look my best always but some days my energy level is just .... not there.
3. Did you play sports in high school or college?I played a little intramural softball and volleyball in college!
4. Would you rather give up lipstick/gloss or high heels?Heels. Hands down. I hardly wear them anyway because I have awful coordination. I adore cute flats!
5. What's your favorite show to watch on tv?I looooove Modern Family, Bethenny Ever After, Big Bang Theory, Mike and Molly. Basically funny sitcoms are my fav!
6. Would you rather bake or cook?Bake! Mmmmm Mmmmm Good!
7. Shorts or Skirts?Skirts! Definitely!
8. What's your favorite scary movie?I can't do scary movies anymore! I used to love scary movies during thunderstorms, but now I cannot do it. Scary movies are just too scary.
Go over to Mannland and link up.
XoXoX

I heart Nail Polish!

2011-04-09T09:40:00.000-04:00

Last week I had painted my nails this color

Chinchilly

{via}

I loved it. It's a beautiful light gray color.

So now .... I am trying to decide between my other favorite spring nail polishes:

Splash of Grenade

Lapis of Luxury

Lilacism

Sew Psyched

I had a very difficult time trying to decide which nail polish to use this morning, so I asked Husband what he thought. He chose Lapis of Luxury in about 2 seconds. lol.

So Lapis of Luxury it is!

I am so excited that today is Ellie Meisner's grand opening. This girl is amazing and so is her food!

Have an amaaaaaazing Saturday everyone!

XoXoX

Fabulous Friday!

2011-04-08T07:15:00.000-04:00

What's Fabulous this Friday you ask?!

- Little Fockers: We are going to watch this tonight and I am so excited. I have heard lots of good reviews about it so I am really excited.

- Sleeping in Saturday Morning!

- A day closer to seeing many of my dear friends tomorrow at one of my dearest friend's Grand Opening celebration! See Ellie's Facebook Page here!

- This Friday will be 4 weeks since we found out that Maveric was gone. While it isn't fabulous that he is gone, it is fabulous that I am surviving and Rob and I are closer than we ever have been before. Guess it's a bittersweet fabulous, but I am trying to be positive here!

Wanna share what's fabulous this Friday? Link up!

Wee Bits Wednesdays

2011-04-06T20:00:00.000-04:00

I decided to begin participating in Leigh Ashley's Wee Bit of Me Wednesdays!

{one} what is one food that, as an adult you love, but as a child you said you’d never touch?hmmmm ..... baked beans! I had a babysitter who literally would force me to eat baked beans or I would have to sit at the table until I fell asleep. It was awful. I hated them. Now they are mmmmm mmmm good.
{two} did you go to college? if yes, what was your major?I did go to college. I went to Pennsylvania State University. I loved it. I loved the football team and my friends and the entire town. I started off with an undecided major and then decided I was interested in psychology. I then also added a concentration and minor in Business focusing on Industrial Psychology. I am now working in Human Resources and love it.
{three} what’s the most wild animal you’ve seen in real life (not counting the zoo)?In real life ... not counting the zoo .... it would have to be a 4 foot Wild Turkey right in my driveway. It was the FREAKIEST thing. I had heard *gobble gobble* all morning while I was getting ready and my husband repeatedly told me that I am crazy. We went to leave to go to work and as I opened the garage door, I saw something move. It was a HUGE turkey that was just HUGE! hahaha. It ran away as soon as I started to open the garage door.
{four} have you ever been to a fortune teller?Yes. She told me that Rob and I would be together our entire lives, that I would have 2 boys 3 years apart and that I would be pregnant by the end of 2010. Technically she was right about being pregnant by the end of the year (if you go by my last menstrual period) so we will see about the two boys. I want to go back and ask her when I will get my take home baby.
{five} can you juggle?No. Not coordinated in the least.
{six} hardwood floors or carpet?Hardwood for sure. But my house is half and half.
{seven} is it called “soda” or “pop”?Soda.
{eight} what was your first car?A 1992 Blue Saturn Stickshift. I loved it.
{nine} what is the most decadent dessert you’ve ever eaten?Ellie at Cinderellie's Sweets made me a Chocolate Hazelnut cake for my last birthday. O.M.G. it was to die for. I would seriously eat it every week if I wouldn't be the size of a house.
{ten} how often do you rearrange your furniture?I have changed the furniture a few times since moving in, but I think we are pretty settled now. We were trying to figure out which room should be the living room since we really have two.
Well that was fun. I hope that you enjoyed learning a wee bit about me!
XoXoX

Sunday Funday!

2011-04-03T19:25:00.000-04:00

We had a great weekend. I can't believe that it is already over.

Yesterday we woke up late, and then my friend Sarah picked me up and we went shopping. I found some very cute shoes at Target and had a great time catching up! Then Hubs, Me & the Pup went to my Parent's house for a Final Four party at our neighbors. Good food, fun and more catching up.

Today has been even more low key. Grocery shopping, hit up Home Goods for a new garbage can and now cleaning the house and watching t.v. I am watching Yes Man right now and I just LOVE this movie!

"We've got a fainter in Head Removal"

I also gave the little puppy a bath today. Some of the pictures came up quite blurry - but they are still very very cute!

Enjoy!

This is his "please no" face

"reallllly?!"

"I love you - please don't make me take a bath"

"Grrrr"

"I'm ready to come out now!"

Hahahaha. He hates taking a bath but he is very good while he is in there!

Such a cute fur*baby we've got!

Fabulous Friday!

2011-04-01T23:50:00.000-04:00

What is Fab this Friday?

- Smiling! I feel like today I finally had a few moments where I smiled without as heavy a heart as I have these past 3 weeks (Has it really been 3 weeks since we lost Maveric?)

- Brown Rice Pasta! This is a staple in our house. With my gluten free nutrition plan I really love Brown Rice Pasta. It is perfect or having spaghetti (with a turkey meat sauce) or just as a side with butter. The texture is really awesome and i even prefer it to 'real' spaghetti now! Mmmm mmmm good.

- Sleep! I worked a 17 hour day yesterday (got into bed at nearly 3 a.m.) and my boss was kind enough to let me stay home and just log in for the afternoon. I woke up at 11:30 a.m. and made my lunch, logged in to check emails and spent the day on the couch.

Next week I will try to even add some pictures (feeling lazy tonight) - could be the off-schedule sleeping.

Was your week Fabulous?! Then link up with Between the Lines and tell us why!

Why I Love April Fool's Day!

2011-04-01T15:23:00.000-04:00

Because my husband proposed to me on this day four years ago!

It was the sweetest proposal (because it was our's and SO heartfelt) and he proposed with a fake ring that I was just NOT excited about (but I faked it really well in the meantime).

Here are some pictures for you!

The Fake Ring

Reasons he knew I wouldn't like it:

- It was gold

- It had strange arrow gold shapes to it

- It wasn't anything like what I had sent him as ideas

Loved this day. And HIM!

Re-Entry Into the World

2011-03-28T20:45:00.000-04:00

So. Today I went back to work

(if you don't count the 1 day I went last week before the clotting and Cytotec)

I feel good that I am back into the groove of things, but at the same time, I feel like it's all so pointless. I don't have Maveric in my belly and so what else matters? I know that this is the grief talking and that things will get better, but I am just feeling so lost still.

Originally, I wanted to wait till I had lost another 25 pounds to try again, but after thinking more and more about it, and Rob and I talking about it more and more; we decided that we would wait the two cycles and make the decision then.

I just have these fears that if we wait too long, and this keeps happening (dear God no) that we will miss out on our take*home baby. I understand this may be totally irrational, but I don't want to wait 6 months. I want to do my very best to lose weight and my very best to be a Mom.

I am hoping and working towards both.

A-Ok

2011-03-25T11:41:00.000-04:00

I had my two week follow up (well 11 days) post D&C and everything finally looks normal.

It was awful though. I was put into a room waiting for my doctor to come in and all I could hear was pregnant women getting to hear their babies' heartbeats.

I am happy that there were heartbeats to be heard but I also feel like it was just a slow form of torture.

But now that I am ok physically, I am ready to truly mourn and move on emotionally. I thank you all for your help while I was recovering.

XoXoX

Naming our Little One

2011-03-24T16:46:00.000-04:00

Rob and I have been having a good long talk about what to call our little lost babe.

During the 6 weeks we had with the baby, Rob and I had started to talk about boy and girl names. I had a feeling that we were having a boy (not sure why - just instinct) and there was one name that we discussed in length. Mostly because Rob thought it would be the 'coolest' name and although it is a nice name, I was not interested in it for my child (at the time).

We laughed about the name and joked about it and talked about it on several occasions. It was the one name that just keep coming up in discussion. So we have decided to name our first child ....

.... drum roll please ....

Maveric.

I feel so much better now that we have named the baby. No more calling the baby 'it' or 'him' or 'bean' but giving him a REAL name. And when I meet my child in heaven, if I find out I am completely wrong and our child is a girl, she will have the toughest, strongest name possible.

Daddy and I love you baby Maveric.

We will miss you and cherish you every day of our life.

Picture Day 30 of 30

2011-03-24T08:44:00.000-04:00

A picture of someone you miss

My friend Kelly. She lives in Oregon.

Sad Face.

Officially done with the 30 Picture Days! Oy!

Another Update

2011-03-23T20:44:00.000-04:00

Unfortunately I have had some more complications.

I went back to work today and did pretty well until near the end of the day. I went to the ladies room and passed some more clots (sorry if this is too much information).

Called my doctor's office and luckily my Dr. was on call (she's awesome).

I filled her in on everything that has happened since I last spoke with her on Sunday. I had to see a different doctor on Monday who I was NOT impressed with.

She told me that she thinks that I am almost done passing everything but that I should take cytotec to get rid of any possible remaining clots. Cytotec helps women to clean out the rest of their uterus but causes painful cramping.

So now I took the cytotec, a painkiller (finally a good one), and an antibiotic.

Ready. Set. Go.

Hopefully this will all be over soon. I am still devastated and not sure when that will change, but at least once the bleeding stops, I won't have to be reminded of this tragedy every time I go to the bathroom.

Picture Day 29 of 30

2011-03-23T08:43:00.001-04:00

A picture that can always make you smile

Guiness' First Day with us.

{it's actually 2 pictures}

He's changed so much since that first day we brought him home.

He had sooooo much hair since they hadn't given him a hair cut and he only weighed about 4 pounds.

Now he is absolutely gorgeous and he weighs closer to 13 pounds. <3 him.

Picture Day 28 of 30

2011-03-22T08:42:00.001-04:00

A picture of something you’re afraid of

Infertility.

{via}

New Trick!

2011-03-21T20:15:00.000-04:00

I taught the puppy a new trick today!

He is SO smart!

Good? News.

2011-03-21T13:45:00.000-04:00

So. Just got back from the Doctor's a few hours ago.

Ultrasound looked 'ok' for being 1 week post D&C.

Doctor said that going back to work should be fine and just to do 'some stuff' this afternoon to see if any more clots will pass. They are hoping it was just the last of any remaining tissue (or pooled blood) that was coming out and I should be fine.

Dr's Rx was to 'do stuff' this afternoon and hopefully nothing else will come out.

So I have done 2 loads of laundry, played with puppy (lightly), and done a quick grocery shopping.

So far so good.

Picture Day 27 of 30

2011-03-21T08:42:00.003-04:00

A picture of yourself and a family member

My Mama, Sister and I

Seriously?!

2011-03-20T22:49:00.000-04:00

It is late on Sunday night and I am tired but I wanted to give an update.

I have to go back to the Doctor's tomorrow. Not back to work as planned, but back to the Doctor's for an ultrasound.

I passed some HUGE clots tonight and am experiencing some serious cramps.

The Dr. on call (who is also the doctor who did my D&C) thinks she may not have gotten all the tissue out of my uterus last week. I will either have to have a shot to pass the rest of the tissue or will have to have a second D&C.

Tears commence.

I just want this to be over. I miss my baby and I want to start healing. We both need to heal.

I will be sure to let you know what happens after our appointment tomorrow. I pray that I will get good news and be able to move forward and look towards the future.

XoXo.

Picture Day 26 of 30

2011-03-20T08:41:00.003-04:00

A picture of something that means a lot to you

The Love of My Life.

<3 you hub*star

Fears.

2011-03-19T12:59:00.000-04:00

I am scared.

To think these thoughts.

To give in to these feelings.

To write this post.

The last week has made me think about our future in a totally different way. A little over a week ago we were going to be parents. Our baby was due October 15, 2011 and was going to be present for all of the 2011 Holidays.

Now all I can do is think about the unknown we will face in these next few months.

This is my fear: the Unknown.

Will we get pregnant again? Will I lose another baby?

Is there something wrong with me?

I am scared. I know that is part of the healing and recovering so I am trying not to feel guilty about all of these crazy emotions. At the same time, I just can't shake 'em.

I keep telling myself that God only gives us what we can handle and that I am strong enough to overcome this.

I will be the mother I am meant to be. I know it's true. In my heart I do.

I just have to keep reminding my brain.

Picture Day 25 of 30

2011-03-19T10:31:00.000-04:00

A picture of your day

This was actually yesterday, but it still applies.

I had awful cramps and scarey clots last night. Called the on-call doctor and was told 'not to worry' ... yet.

I should wait and see what happens. Luckily I haven't had any clots yet today so I am just resting right now waiting until it's time for us to go see my family (yay!).

In the meantime, here is a picture of my fur*baby.

Picture Day 24 of 30

2011-03-18T20:15:00.000-04:00

A picture of something you wish you could change

I don't think this really requires a picture. I wish I could change that we lost our first child.

Left The House

2011-03-18T14:55:00.000-04:00

I left the house today. For the first time since Monday's surgery.

I went to the grocery store to pick up a few things.

As soon as I walked in I had a flashback of being there last week.

We were pregnant.

It was the day before my surgery.

I ran through the store, practically sobbing.

It seemed like I could not get out of there fast enough.

Luckily, I did get out of there and am back home on the couch with my puppy. Husband came home for a quick break and to give me a big hug {Thank God for him}.

I know that I will heal. Physically I am almost there. Emotionally I feel like the wound will never heal ... but I know ... it will.

Won't it?

I found this quote today that I thought I should share. It is exactly how I feel:

"No farewell words were spoken, no time to say goodbye. You were gone before we knew it and only God knows why."

Better Days.

2011-03-17T16:30:00.002-04:00

I get to see my little sister this weekend.

Ready for some fun and relief from this 'heavy' week.

Can't wait.

Grrrr.

2011-03-16T12:05:00.000-04:00

Feeling worse today than yesterday.

Cramps, bleeding, achey ... oh my.

Rob had to go back to work today. Sad Face.

Luckily for me, this little buddy won't leave my side.

Called and left a message for my doctor to make sure that getting worse before getting better is 'normal'. Hopefully she offers some 'real' medication instead of just some tylenol every 6 hours. Ouch.

Fingers crossed.

Amazing People.

2011-03-15T10:55:00.000-04:00

I wanted to write today about some amazing people in our life that have helped us through these awful days. Saying thank you is just not enough.

Our parents, our friends, our families.

We couldn't have survived the last five days without you.

We had some amazing packages arrive yesterday.

My In Loves showed up with delicious food, flowers and cake. The cake was actually from the same place that our wedding cake was made.

It's a family tradition that these cakes are present for practically every special occasion. And OH MY are they delicious. Thank you both!

My dear friends Eric and Ellie brought us flowers too. They also put together a little care package filled with goodies for us and for Guiness. There were little easter eggs with cute notes like, "we love you", "relax", "everything happens for a reason." There were chocolates, candles and tea.

My friend Ellie is SO creative and she has her grand opening of her business "Cinderellie's Sweets" on April 9th! She is amazing (and Eric is pretty cool too). Feel free to follow her on facebook! Her creations are not only delicious but gorgeous too!

Here is a picture of the package they put together.

I am also ever so thankful for this little guy too.

He doesn't like the flash of my camera very much.

But he does love my cereal. Mmmm Fruit Loops.

He made sure to get it off my fingers too. XoxoX.

Worst Day Of My Life.

2011-03-14T21:10:00.000-04:00

We said goodbye today.

Goodbye to the idea that we would have an October baby.

Goodbye to sharing happy news with family and friends.

Goodbye to our first precious child.

The D&C has been a little more painful than I anticipated. LOTS of cramping and bleeding but I can handle that. I have this amazing man by my side that cares more about me than anything else in this world and I am just SO blessed. I <3 him more than I thought I ever could love someone in this life and I cannot wait till we get to be parents together.

Someday we will be. We are healing now. Emotionally and physically.

Thank you for all of your thoughts and prayers.

Because Two People Fell In Love

27 Weeks!

25 Weeks!

23 Weeks!

21 Weeks & Gender Reveal!

18 Weeks

16 Weeks

12 weeks

9 weeks

8 weeks

7 weeks

6 Weeks

News!

Back from Vacation

Irene!

5 months?

Super Mario Party

Farmers Market Love

Roebling Weekend!

Update!

Broken Heart?

July 4th Weekend

Operation Dog House: Day 4

Operation: Dog House, Day 3

Bad Dog!

They're Here!

Super Sicko

Happy Father's Day

3 Months

Weird Schedule

Weekend Update

Pin-obsessed

Our Weekend

Happy Belated Birthday Dad-In-Love

Memorial Day

Fab Friday!

100th Post!

Change.

Billysburg!

Yet Another Fab Friday!

Worldless Wednesday

Movie Reviews

HairCut

Nap*Time

Whino!

2 months

Wordless(ish) Wednesday

Hope.

Fabulous Friday!

Wordless Wednesday!

Yay for the Weekend

Leap of Faith

Leaving on a Jet Plane!

Philly Fun!

Happy Easter!

Please be a FAB Friday!

Puppy Love

You aren't going to believe this ...

Fabulous Friday!

One Month.

Finding the Strength

Weekend Recap!

GTKY Sunday!

I *heart* Nail Polish!

Fabulous Friday!

Wee Bits Wednesdays

Sunday Funday!

Fabulous Friday!

Why I Love April Fool's Day!

Re-Entry Into the World

A-Ok

Naming our Little One

Picture Day 30 of 30

Another Update

Picture Day 29 of 30

Picture Day 28 of 30

New Trick!

Good? News.

Picture Day 27 of 30

Seriously?!

I heart Nail Polish!