Lucky in Love

A Ladybug Picnic!

2012-01-25T12:34:00.001-05:00

We had Natalie's 1st Birthday on Saturday. It was a Ladybug Picnic theme filled with terra cotta pots, fake grass, pom poms, topiaries, picnic food, sweets galore, a chocolate fountain, friends and family...and most importantly...our little ladybug!

My MIL created Natalie's tutu, hair clip, and little ladybug shoes. Adorable, yes?

I didn't take too many pictures the day of the event. Instead of having 12 month pictures taken, I decided to have our photographer come to Natalie's party and do them there. So I'm going to wait until I get those back to share major party details.

I will share the details of the sweets table, as I took a few pics of it before the guests arrived. My baby sis was so gracious to help me out with this. Between the two of us, we created all of the food ourselves. An undertaking for sure, but I think it was just perfect.

Ladybug Pretzels/Chocolate Covered Marshmallows

Natalie's Smash Cake

Oreo Truffles

Can't wait to share the rest will you! It was a great time!

The Yummiest Chicken Cordon Bleu...Eva!

2012-01-18T06:00:00.000-05:00

I'm about to admit to you that I watch PBS.

And not for Sesame Street or something else legitimate.

My husband and I are a wee bit obsessed with these two cooking shows...America's Test Kitchen and Cook's Country.

Have you seen them? They make some really interesting, yummy recipes. And they explain things like the chemistry behind why you should use one cut of meat over the other. And charts that show where exactly the meat is coming from. Charts! And step by step instructions and tips on how and why a recipe works.

It's really a novel of a concept compared to something you would find on Food Network. Now I love me some Food Network, but these shows actually test dozens upon dozens of recipes before they come up with the best one. And I believe them.

Last night I made their Chicken Cordon Bleu. It was to die for! It had a Ritz cracker crust (delicious!) along with yummy slices of ham and Swiss cheese which combined to make a fantastic flavor. And it could not have been easier.

Now I'm not much for stuffing chicken breasts. You usually have to flatten them out with a meat mallet and then roll them up. Which in my experience usually creates more of a mess than a masterpiece. But these, these little bundles are genius! All you have to do it a cut a slit in the chicken and insert the rolled up pieces of ham/cheese and you're done. Easy peasy!

I must share!

Serves 4

Ingredients:

25 Ritz crackers

4 slices of hearty white bread (I used Italian)

6 Tablespoons unsalted butter, melted

8 thin slices deli ham

2 cups shredded Swiss cheese

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 2 lbs. total)

3 large eggs

2 Tablespoons Dijon mustard

1 cup all purpose flour

Instructions:

1. Make Crumbs: Adjust oven racks to lowest and middle positions and heat oven to 450 degrees. Pulse crackers and bread in a food processor until coarsely ground. Drizzle in butter; pulse to incorporate. Bake crumbs on rimmed baking sheet on middle rack, stirring occasionally, until light brown, 3-5 minuets. Transfer to shallow dish.

2. Stuff Chicken: Top each ham slice with 1/4 cup cheese and roll tightly; set aside. Pat chicken dry with paper towels and season with salt and pepper. Cut pocket in thickest part of chicken and stuff each breast with 2 ham-and-cheese rolls. Transfer chicken to plate, cover with plastic wrap, and refrigerate at least 20 minutes. (Apparently this is so the chicken time to seal up a bit on itself. This helps keep the ham and cheese inside the chicken and not oozing out on your baking sheet when you bake it)

3. Coat and Bake: Beat eggs and mustard in a second shallow dish. Place flour in third shallow dish. One at a time, coat stuffed chicken lightly with flour, dip into egg mixture, and dredge in crumbs, pressing to adhere. Transfer chicken to a clean baking sheet. Bake on lowest rack until bottom of chicken is golden brown, about 10 minutes, and then move baking sheet to middle rack and reduce oven temperature to 400 degrees. Bake until golden brown and chicken registers 160 degrees, 20-25 minutes. Transfer to cutting board, tent with foil, and let rest 5 minutes. Serve.

Y'all. Make this. Trust me. Delicious!

I will say that the amount of flour/Ritz mixture I threw away was crazy. It doesn't use nearly as much as it calls for. I know it's easier to coat with more mixture there...but I think next time I would make 1/2 of what it calls for. It hurt my hear to throw away that many Ritz crackers.

One Year!

2012-01-17T06:00:00.000-05:00

Sweet girl, you are a whole year old! My little baby is now a toddler and I just can't believe it. You are growing and changing so quickly it's hard to keep up!

This was a busy month! You said your first word...wait for it..."dada." Yeah. You say it 24/7, even when I say, "Say Mama!" You're sooooo funny little girl.

You are growing the cutest little baby curls on the back of your head and I just adore them. Your daddy says you need a haircut but I totally disagree!

You celebrated your first Christmas and loved all of the attention! You got some great walking toys and constantly want to be up walking around. You even took your first steps when we got home from holiday traveling! You haven't done it since though. I think you're a little scared. But your confidence will come soon sweet girl!

You got your first fever this month and it was super sad. You were whiny and lost your appetite but you still slept well. Fortunately, it didn't last long.

After what seemed like forever, you finally figured out how to use your sippy cup by yourself. Your daddy and I think you've always known but were just too lazy to hold it up yourself. But now you're a pro. You get lots of practice with milk and smoothies (your new favorite!).

You've moved on to eating exclusively finger foods. It's been a bit of a struggle but I think we're getting the hang of what you will and will not eat these days. You can be quite the picky eater, little one. But that's to be expected. You have parents who eat practically zero veggies.

This month we've dropped some nursing sessions and are down to just one...the evening. It's been a bittersweet transition for Mommy but you don't seem to even notice. I'm not quite sure when we'll give it up all together but I'm just going with the flow at the moment.

I've been trying to teach you to wave and we practice in the mirror. So now, you can do it but you only do it to yourself in the mirror! Mommy screwed that one up big time.

I did teach you something, though. How to shake! Whenever you're holding your rattle or keys I say, "shake, shake, shake" and you do it! Score one for Mommy!

We've started incorporating brushing your teeth into our routine at night. You let me do it at first and I think it tickles you because you always laugh. Then you get a try at it and do such a good job!

Books are your very favorite toy these days! You love to read to yourself and babble in the car. It's pretty much the cutest thing ever. And you love to turn the pages when I'm reading to you.

Natalie, this has been the best year of my life. You have made my life complete and I love you with my whole heart. Being a mom has been the greatest blessing and I am so thankful God has blessed me with you, my sweet daughter.

Love you to the moon and back little girl,

Mama

The Birthday Girl and Her Special Day!

2012-01-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

Yesterday my sweet baby girl turned one! We started off the day with a few gifts from her Daddy and I. She's super into books these days and since she loves to chew on them we've been playing a lot with bath books. So I picked up a few at Target and she loves them. She reads them to herself and it's pretty much the cutest thing ever.

See what I mean about the chewing?

Along with a small bead maze, we also got her this Laugh and Learn Puppy which seems really cute. Hopefully she'll be more into it soon...but she liked playing with packaging more than the puppy yesterday.

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But my favorite gift we gave her was this little Chicago Bears skirt and football leggings! Too bad they didn't even make the playoffs. Oh well. She can support her team in the off season.

We sang "Happy Birthday" to Natalie at breakfast with a blueberry pancake!

We had a pretty low key day just the three of us since her party is next weekend, but we did take her out to a special lunch at Moe's. Girl chowed the heck down on some meat. And she fed herself for the first time with a fork and was very pleased.

As an aside, I picked Moe's because it's pretty much my favorite thing when you walk in and everyone yells, "Welcome to Moe's!" I know. It's the little things. I also love it because Matt loathes when the employees do that. Makes it that much more enjoyable, you know? Especially when I can spend the entire ride over yelling, "Welcome to Moe's!" Unfortunately the B-squad was working and I didn't get welcomed at all. Uber disappointed.

Anyways...

I have a toddler, not a baby and I'm a little blown away by how quickly this year has flown. I feel like...she's under my care for 18 years and one of those years is already gone. I know. Dramatic much? But seriously, fastest year ever.

Looking forward to many, many more birthdays with Miss Natalie. Oh I just love her!

Today My Sweet Baby Turns One

2012-01-15T06:00:00.000-05:00

One year ago today...

At 3:0-freaking-2 in the morning...

We welcomed the most beautiful little girl into the world.

She stole our heart from the moment we saw her sweet little face.

And she went on to make it the most exciting, nerve racking, unbelievable year we've ever had.

Happy Birthday Natalie! We are so proud to be your parents and forever grateful God has blessed us with you. We love you more every single day.

Love,

Mama and Dada

11 month post...almost a month late. Almost!!

2012-01-12T06:00:00.000-05:00

Well, since you turn one year old on Sunday, Mama figured she'd better hurry up and get your 11 month post done. Sorry for the delay sweet girl. It's much more fun to play with you than to write about it. But I'll try to be better!

Some highlights from this month:

You have 6 teeth that have given you practically zero problems. So thankful for that little one!

Mama's still squeezing you into size 3 diapers even though you are definitely in a size 4. I need to finish the package!

Started cruising on the couch...you are super fast! But you like to chew on the end tables and have left teeth marks on them. Not cool little one. Not cool.

Super into reading books...okay really just looking at them and chewing on them...but you love them nonetheless

Stood on your own for approximately 5 seconds!

We've dropped an afternoon nursing session leaving us with just 3 total a day

You had your first babysitter who even put you to bed and said you were great! We love her.

You've discovered door stoppers and are obsessed with them. I was okay with this until you took off the top and put it in your mouth. No way sweet girl. Gone.

Your daddy and I joke about your "path of destruction" you leave wherever you go. He can always tell where you were when he gets home from work. You're into everything you can get your hands on and put every miniscule thing on the floor into your mouth. How you spot those specks of lint even the vacuum leaves I have no idea.

You spent Thanksgiving in Indy with your family and finally met Mook the dog. Boy you loved him! You laughed and laughed when he licked you and it was the cutest thing.

Near the end of the month you saw Santa and were so nonchalant about the whole experience. You just looked at him like, "What's up!?" and then continued to chew on Sophie. Love it!

Clearly you're a fan of chewing.....

I love you so much sweet girl and it has been my joy to watch you grow these last 11 months. I look forward to so many more celebrations of your achievements. I cannot wait to see the little person you become.

Love, Mama

The Fastest, Bestest Year of My Life

2012-01-11T06:00:00.000-05:00

Y’all. My sweet babygirl is turning one on Sunday.

One.

As in she’s been here in this world for 365 days.

I feel like it was just yesterday she was a squishy littlenewborn. But on the other hand, it seemslike so long ago. Some days I can hardlyremember her being this small.

Now she’s a toddler. Longgone is my baby who would contently lie on the floor in one spot. In her place is a babbling, wannabe walker whowants nothing more than the walk around the house ALL.DAY.LONG.

Needless to say, a lot has changed in one short year.

I became a mom. Something I still can’t believe. The fact that I have a child and have been entrusted to raise her stillfloors me. The responsibility of it alloverwhelms me at times, but I know in my heart God gave her to me specifically becausewe were a perfect fit. She was mymissing piece. And now my heart isfuller than I ever thought possible.

You know the totally overused line of “I never knew I couldlove anyone so much!”? Well, crap. It’s true. Through all of the frustrations and moments of lost patience on my part…I still find myself thinking about her and smiling. Or missing her when she’s sleeping. Or wanting to snuggle her up into a littleball and keep her this size forever.

But she’s growing up. And I truly am excited to she her learn more and more each day. It’s just sometimes a little bittersweetwatching her become more and more independent. But I’m proud of the sweetie she is becoming. And gosh darn it, the girl is a hoot!

I’m in serious party planning mode over here. All of my immediate family is coming andstaying with us so it is going to be a lot of fun…and a lot of work. But I want to make sure we focus on thereason for the party. The celebration ofmy sweet baby girl who has brought so much joy into all of our lives.

Can’t wait to share more with you all!

Rip Van Winkle Wannabe

2012-01-10T06:00:00.000-05:00

Do any of you have snoring spouses?

I didn't. I was lucky. Until Christmas. Suddenly my silent bed partner turned into a wake me up out of a deep sleep bed partner.

And he's still here.

At first he blamed it on congestion. And I bought it seeing as he was actually sick. But even since the "sickies" left, the snoring remains. What's up with that?

I've been having to get up in the middle of the night and move to the guest room. A guest room where I haven't put sheets back on the bed since we last had guests. They're in the room, mind you. Just not on the bed. So I've been sleeping on top of the comforter, using the sheets as blankets, and sleeping with my robe on because it's so cold.

Poor, lazy me.

But seriously. What can I do about this? I am beyond sick of leaving my warm bed in the middle of the night. And I know Matt feels really bad. Do those Breathe Right Strips work?

source

That couple looks really peaceful, huh? Oh how I want that.

So what's a sleepy mama to do?

Natalie's First Christmas!

2012-01-05T06:00:00.000-05:00

I know this is super late, but if only for my own memoriesI’d like to recap our Christmas vacation.

Matt was involved in a trial down in Akronfor most of the month of December. Wewere concerned about it interrupting our Christmas travel plans, but luckily itwrapped up just before the holidays. Andhe won! It was a big case not only forhim but for the firm and gave him such great trial experience. It’s funny how before I met Matt I justassumed all lawyers tried cases like you see on T.V. Believe me; it is not at all like that. So not the glamorous job it is portrayed tobe. But in this instance it kind ofwas. He actually got to cross examinewitnesses and everything! I am so proudof him and the effort he puts into his work. Natalie and I are very lucky to have him.

Side tracked a bit, huh? Since we were celebrating the holidays out of town, we had our family Christmas morning on the 21st. Natalie had her first fever so she wasn't really into opening presents, but it was still nice to have that time as a family.

Her favorite gift, the bubble wrap. Of course.

We headed down to Indianapolison the 23^rd to start our week long stay. I had my annual Christmas dinner with my highschool besties and had an absolute blast. We’ve grown apart over the last few years…it’s easy to do when you liveso far away…and the little addition we have doesn’t make this easier…but I felta closeness coming back to our group and I hope that sticks around.

Every year we go to Christmas Eve Mass at the church I grewup in. Even though I’m no longerCatholic, I still enjoy going. We attendthe children’s service where in place of the sermon…the priest has all of thechildren come up to the front and he reads a story about the birth ofJesus. I took Natalie up to the front thisyear and even though she tried to walk away the entire time…and left a pile ofCheerios in her wake…it was kind of a dream come true. I cannot tell you how many years I have satin the pew and watched those sweet kiddos run up to hear the story and dreamtabout it being my little one. It wasawesome.

That evening we went to dinner with my whole family, Matt’sparents, and some of my dad’s extended family per our usual tradition. Natalie was pooped though and she was havingno problem showing it to the entire restaurant…so she and I scooted home and Iput her to bed. It actually worked outwell seeing as she was fast asleep when everyone got there so I could enjoy thegift exchange…and wine J

Unclear why, but Natalie had a r.o.u.g.h. night that night. I’m not sure if she was over excited to seeSanta or what but she was up almost all night crying about something. Not so fun. But we rallied in the morning and opened presents with my parents andsiblings. Girl got some sweet loot!

Later that day we headed over to my aunt’s house tocelebrate with my mom’s extended family. We had a lot of fun and it was nice for some of my family members to getto meet Natalie for the first time.

We finished out our celebrations with Matt’s parents thenext morning. We had such a full week oflove from everyone and it was just a fantastic experience to celebrateNatalie’s first Christmas with us as a family. Love that girl to pieces!

A New Start-January Goals

2012-01-04T06:00:00.000-05:00

I mentioned yesterday that I had some goals for 2012. I hesitate to call them resolutions as I feel as if I'm setting myself up to fail. But clearly, that's what they are. The coming of the new year brings with it a sense of change so I'm stepping up and sharing with you some things I've been wanting to do in my own life for some time.

1. Go to the gym/work out at least 5 X a week.

I had a pretty good routine of 4 X per week going before Christmas hit so I'd like to bump that up a little bit to get in some more cardio. With this goal also comes the obligatory goal of losing weight. I put on some pounds during the holidays so I have some serious work to do. I actually took a before shot of myself yesterday morning and intend on doing an after shot on my birthday (6/3/12) 5 months from now. Lord, let me look better than I do right now. It was not pretty.

2. Read my Bible everyday.

When I was working I had the perfect set up. I read the Word during my breaks and at lunch and finished the entire thing in a year. But since then, I've kind of been lackluster in my reading. And honestly, I've been lost at how to approach it. I found a Bible I was gifted when I left my job in a different translation than my regular one so I'm excited to get into it. It has a reading program in it so I think I will follow that for now. My plan is to do it as soon as Natalie goes down for her first nap before something else comes up. I started yesterday. So far, so good!

3. Give up pop.

I'm not a big pop drinker. I gave up caffeine when I got pregnant and have pretty much stuck to it as I've continued with the breast feeding. But some days I just really want one, you know? I know water is much better for me so I'm going to try to bump up my intake of that instead.

4. Organize recipes that are winners.

I'm a meal planner. And probably uniquely so, I exclusively make new meals. Okay, that's not entirely true...but for the most part I'm a one and done kind of girl. I'm not sure why, but I just have so many recipes waiting to be tried that I have never even thought of keeping a list of those that we loved. Kind of stupid when you think about it. So I'm going to start a folder on my desktop to compile those I would make again. And, you know, make them again. Does anyone have any other easy way of keeping track of this? The folder idea's all I've got.

5. Finish Natalie's 1 year photo book, keep up with her baby book, and print pictures to put in albums.

I'm about half way through Natalie's photo book in Blurb, but I recently got a Shutterfly coupon code for a book so I'm not sure what to do. Anyone made one on either of these sites? Recommendations?

I'm fairly good about keeping up with her baby book but I have yet to print any pictures to put in there. I'd like to get that done.

Also, I do want to print out all of our pictures and keep them in really nice leather albums just so we have them. Do any of you do this? Suggestions for great albums to use?

6. Get an Ohio driver's license.

Okay. Confession. I have lived in Ohio probably 6 years now and I still have an Indiana driver's license. I know. I'm hanging my head in shame. I do have Ohio plates though, so that's a start! I have lots of excuses as to why I haven't done this...such as I didn't want to do it when I was pregnant...or before I lost the weight...or I didn't want to take the lame written test. But it's seriously, seriously time.

That's my list so far. I want to check back every month to keep an updated list of how things are going and perhaps add some new idea that come to mind as the year progresses. Keep me accountable, okay?

Happy New Year!

2012-01-03T06:00:00.000-05:00

Happy New Year friends! So sorry I disappeared from the blog world. It wasn’t particularly intentional, but I wasgoing through one of those periods where I felt forced to blog rather than reallywanting to blog, you know?

Well, I’m back and feeling refreshed! Perhaps the coming of the new year hasrenewed my spirit? Not sure, but I’mgoing with it!

I have a lot of goals and aspirations for 2012. My sweet baby girl turns 1 in just 12 shortdays, weight loss is always an issue, and my spiritual walk needs some seriouswork…just to name a few. Want to followalong with this crazy journey I call my life? Stick around!

P.S. You'll get a steady stream of pictures of Natalie. That's enough, right? Girl holds my whole heart...

Confessions

2011-11-30T06:00:00.000-05:00

1. I have never left my child with a babysitter.

Now hear me out. I have left her before. Matt puts her to bed when I have a meeting, she's stayed with my in laws for almost an entire day, she goes to the nursery at the gym almost every day. It's not like girl is attached to my hip. Well, she kind of is. I mean, she has to be if I want to take her anywhere, right?

But this month I have been invited to several holiday celebrations. And my dear, sweet husband is in trial out of town and will be gone practically all month. Not to mention the fact that we have no family within 350 miles of us.

It was time.

I hit up my favorite mommy friends and got some recommendations. I have an official babysitter scheduled for Thursday evening and I'm throwing her in head first by having her put Natalie to bed. Ha! Should be interesting considering I'm still nursing and girl thrives on her nighttime routine. But I've got to start somewhere.

2. I have no idea what to get my father for Christmas. Really, I never do. He's so not the typical dad. You know the kind that golfs, grills, or needs office supplies? Nope. Not Pops. He more sits, drinks beer, and watches sports. And I have gotten him enough sports memorabilia that is collecting dust. Ideas?

3. My Christmas tree is still sitting in the middle of my family room with no lights or ornaments on it. It's in this weird, leaning position and I have not been able to fix it myself so I am waiting until Matt has 0.2 seconds so he can help. I will have the lights up this week. I WILL!

4. I'm not a fan of bath time. There. I said it. It's completely out of pure laziness as Natalie really likes the bath and is no trouble at all. But if it was socially acceptable to bathe your child once I week, I'd be all over that. For now, I'll stick with every other day.

5. I tried a new recipe for cookies yesterday to send for a cookie exchange. I'm pretty sure I messed up measuring how much flour I was supposed to use because the cookies spread like WHOA. I mean, like WHOA. But they still tasted good so I sent them anyway. There was no way I was going to go out to the store to get more ingredients to make something else. And like I said, they still tasted good. Karma's probably going to screw me and I'll receive some gross thumbprint cookies with fruit in the middle. Ick. Give me chocolate.

Happy Thanksgiving!

2011-11-28T06:00:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday friends! Matt's has been working weekends for the last two weeks so my days are all messed up. Besides the fact that Natalie and I spent the majority of our day yesterday in pajamas which is more common on the weekends, I thought it was Monday all day. I feel a little off. It could also be all of the Thanksgiving food I stuffed myself with all weekend. I'm in need of a food intervention.

We headed down to Indianapolis Wednesday evening and spent all day Thursday at my parents' house celebrating with my in laws and my family. We had so much fun and so much food...and it was a super fun day filled with lots of love.

I made this Pumpkin Spiced Cake with Maple Cream Cheese Frosting and it was so yummy! I ate the leftovers for breakfast for two days. Yep. That was only the beginning of my sweet issues. I think I may need to give up sugar. After Christmas of course.

To say that my mama loves her granddaughter is the biggest understatement of the century. They had such a great time together spreading the love.

Until Natalie got a hold of my brother, her bestie. These are probably my favorite pictures ever.

After dinner we played some games, drank some wine, and played Just Dance. In that order. Which explains why my moves on Just Dance were less than stellar. Or perhaps it's just that I can't dance. Either way...complete and utter suckage on my part.

We headed back to Cleveland on Friday and stopped to get our Christmas tree on the way home. It's Natalie's first Christmas this year so we're soaking in all of the experiences together as a family. Can you believe how nice the weather was? I mean, last year it was so cold and raining. This year girl didn't even need a coat!

Saturday I hosted my very first Thanksgiving for a group of our friends and their kiddos. We had an absolute blast. I forgot to take any pictures because I was rushing around all day prepping the food and such but I did manage to snap a blurry phone pic of the cupcakes I made. Happy Turkey Day!

Change. The Good and the Bad.

2011-11-22T06:00:00.000-05:00

I'm not a person who likes change. That control freak inside of me (okay, it's not really inside of me...it out there for everyone to see) likes to know what's going to happen before it actually happens. And when things change, I'm caught off guard, I'm not prepared. And a Jenny unprepared is one of the worst things in my mind. In fact I'm getting anxious right now thinking about it.

This is a particularly sensitive area for me during the holiday season. I wistfully dream of the good old days where I woke up at 6 a.m. with my brother and sister, we all sat in our particular spots on the couch, and we opened presents. Then Mom would make us an awesome breakfast and we'd all nap on the couch because why the heck did we get up so early? Or Thanksgiving where we'd go to my Grandma and Grandpa's and sit at the kids table telling jokes or spying on our parents.

Things have changed so much. We've added husbands and lost grandparents. We have so many other people to take into account, our little bubble has been disrupted. A part of me mourns the loss of my holidays as a kid and the fact that they'll never be the same.

And now that we have a little girl of our own, I want us to make our own holiday traditions for her. In her own home. But how do you wake up in your own house on Christmas morning when the rest of your family lives 5 hours south?

These are all areas we'll eventually have to work out. Starting with this year's Thanksgiving. We usually head down to Indianapolis as both my parents and Matt's parents live there. My sister comes in from Chicago with her husband and we all of Thanksgiving dinner at my parents' house. We're out at 3 a.m. with the crazies for Black Friday and then we celebrate another Thanksgiving with Matt's side of the family is they decide to grace us with their presence.

This year, work is getting in the way. Matt has a trial coming up in December and it's serious crunch time. Before I married an attorney, I thought all lawyers went to court all the time like on T.V. Well, obviously this isn't true. Things rarely go to trial so this is a huge, crazy big deal. And he's swamped. So this year we're only going to be traveling from late Wednesday to early Friday. No Black Friday, just a quick dinner and we're outta there.

It makes my heart hurt that things have to change when you get older. That everything doesn't always go as planned. But I'm trying to look on the bright side. I decided since we were going to be home for the weekend...that we could get out Christmas tree! So I'm all pumped up to decorate for the season. And seeing as I'm always piling on way too much, I invited several of our friends over on Saturday for another Thanksgiving meal. Yes. I'm hosting my first Thanksgiving, making my first turkey...on one week's notice. When I get home from traveling one day before.

I'm insane.

But I'm also excited to spread the season with our friends who we've come to love. Who we are so thankful to have surrounding us in this city we never thought we'd stay in more than a year or two. We're dug in people. Growing roots, you might say. And I don't want to leave.

10 Months!

2011-11-21T06:30:00.000-05:00

Sweet girl, how in the world are you 10 months old? I mean, in two months you will be a whole year! I cannot believe you have been with us longer than you were in my belly. You have changed our lives drastically for sure but have brought so much love into our world. Your daddy and I are thankful for you every single day.

You spent a lot of this month fighting a runny nose. It seemed as soon as we got it under control...back it came. Although you've come to really hate Boogie Wipes, you really do handle the congestion like a champ. We had a few rough nights but who can really blame you when you can't catch a breath? Plus, more snuggles for me!

We took our very first lunch date together at Panera! I'm not sure why we haven't done this before but we were out and about and I was hungry so I decided it was time. It made me so happy to be out with you and think about how many more lunches we'll share as you get older. Me and my daughter. Insert heart swell.

You made up a new game where you hold your little hands on your forehead and pretend I can't see you. It's our own version of peek-a-boo. I act like I can't find you anywhere and when you finally bring your hands down I say, "There she is!" and you get so excited. We do this in your high chair all the time. Speaking of your high chair, you're a good little eater but you're easily distracted. With this game as well as trying to get the shadows on your tray from the spoon or your hands. But you're eating three great meals a day including veggies, fruit, chicken, cheese, eggs, yogurt, and yummy muffins. You're perhaps also tasted McDonald's french fries. And a nugget.

You've learned how to get from sitting to crawling! It took a little coaxing by your Grandad but once you figured out how to do it you wasted no time mastering it. Now you're completely mobile. I can't trust you anywhere! And the hardwood doesn't even contain your crazy anymore as you are no longer staying on just the carpet. Floor food is becoming an issue. Do I really have to sweep every day? Because that is jut not going to happen.

Your favorite place to be in the world is upside-down. A smile is plastered on your face whenever you do it. And once we start, you don't want to stop. You fling yourself backwards and we really have to watch because it's pretty dangerous the way you fall backwards.

A couple big events this month...your very first Halloween! You were a ballerina and had several opportunities to wear your costume your Grandmer made you. We went trick-or-treating with your besties and you did a good job of getting some candy for Mommy and Daddy. We've also transitioned from using a bottle to a sippy cup. You still haven't quite mastered tipping your head back to get at the milk, but you're drinking much better out of this than out of the bottle. We replaced an afternoon nursing session with the sippy for a while but Mommy quickly realized her milk stash was going to run out so you're back on the boob for now. But the sippy's there when we need it.

Although you can't yet pull up on things, when I stand you up on the furniture you are walking all over the place. You get a lot of practice with your Leap Frog table as it moves on the carpet. I'm so impressed at how well you are able to maneuver around the room. I just know you'll be taking steps soon. You're so brave!

You've pretty much given up going back to sleep after your morning nursing session which has actually turned into a good thing. Your usual 30-45 minute morning nap is now a fairly consistent hour and a half. Mommy thanks you!

You took one trip this month to Indiana for a wedding. It was a quick trip...good thing because you were not such a fan of the hotel sleeping. I'm sure our neighbors were not thrilled. Weird how daddy's can sleep through it though, huh?

You had two friends come over this month to play whilst Mommy watched all of you. Lucky for your Daddy, this bought him at least another year before a sibling will even be talked about. You're enough work for now sweet cheeks.

I love you sweet girl. I love your sweet little feet even though they smell like feet. I love the fact that you are so happy in the mornings. I love your happy kicky dance you do when you see me. I love the smile you get on your face when Daddy comes home. I love when I tell you no and you smile and do it anyways. I just love you. Love you to the moon and back my love.

Poinsettia Say What?

2011-11-16T06:00:00.000-05:00

Y'all. Last week was the craziest, busiest week ever. Do I say that all the time? No? Okay good. Because it really was.

After I made the 100th anniversary cake for our Junior League, they asked me to make cookies for our annual fundraiser, Poinsettia Place. Because I'm all awesome and stuff. So of course I said yes.

And every week the number of cookies they needed kept growing and growing.

First, 200-225. Then 250. Then all of a sudden it was upwards of 300. Whoa people. The most cookies I have ever made in my life was maybe 40. But I was up for the challenge. I mean, how hard can it really be to bake and decorate 300 cookies?

Well, let me tell you.

VERY HARD.

Obviously, I had the added bonus of taking care of a 10 month old at the same time. Talk about a juggling act. Okay. Let's get serious. She was neglected. Not like leave your child on the changing table neglected. More like let her play with the CDs and bang them on the TV neglected. It's amazing how much you can miss a child who is right there with you all day when you have no time to play with her. This is a huge reason I could not do this full time. My eyes have been opened.

Needless to say, it was a lot more work than I realized. I spent one entire day baking.

The next day was spent outlining the cookies.

Next up, flooding and decorating. Upon doing this, I quickly realized that I should've split this up into two days. Decorating cookies with three different colors means that you have to do something to 300 cookies 3 times. So you know what I did? Put my husband to work! Those green leaves and yellow centers, all him.

Until 11 p.m. when the loser decided to go to bed, leaving me to fend for myself.

The last day I spent individually packaging each one and tying them with ribbon. Let's just say it will be quite a while before I take on a task such as this again. I'm looking forward to a few day of soaking in my child and sitting on my butt.

9 Month Photo Shoot of the Cutest Baby Alive

2011-11-15T06:30:00.000-05:00

We recently had Natalie's 9 month pictures taken at a local pumpkin patch. I used a new photographer, Denise from Zoobee Photography, and I am beyond impressed by the pictures she took. Here are just a few, okay a lot, of my favorites.

My sweet, big girl. I just cannot believe she is taking pictures standing up. I can't even imagine what her 12 month pictures are going to look like. So thankful for these little moments captured.

2 Cakes and a Wedding

2011-11-07T06:00:00.000-05:00

Y'all. Last week was insane. I had two cakes due. Two. Throw in an infant and you have a very full week. Did I mention we were also going out of town for a wedding over the weekend? Yeah. Insert major stress.

But it's over! Wait. I have to make 300+ cookies for an event this Friday you say? Oh yeah.

Let's skip that right now, okay?

The first cake I made was for a former co-worker of mine. Her son was having his first birthday over the weekend and they were doing a New York themed party. Her husband works in New York during the week and then comes home on weekends so they are in the city quite a bit visiting. Here's what we came up with.

My next cake was a groom's cake for one of my roomies from college. It was a surprise for her husband so I was determined to rock it out on this one. She didn't want it too big as her wedding cake was enormous so we decided on a tool box for her handy man.

This was the set up at the wedding. If you can't tell, the cake board for her wedding cake is a log. Isn't that the coolest touch ever? They had the reception in some middle of nowhere town surrounded by cornfields and it was so gorgeous and so her.

Forgive me for not getting many pictures. Someone was being little miss fussy pants as it was way past Natalie's bed time. But I did get a few of her and her pops at the wedding.

So excited to be there....

After we ate and raided the candy buffet at the reception we were outta there. Funny how weddings with a baby are so different. No drinking, no dancing, just surviving. Good thing she's cute, huh?

We did get a change to snuggle 3 month old twins of a friend during dinner which was uber fun and totally gave me the baby fever. But then Natalie started fussing and the thought of having to deal with two on my own closed my uterus back up in a jiffy.

Randomness for Your Thursday

2011-11-03T06:00:00.000-04:00

Until last week, I hadn't done a cake since May. On Monday I got three new orders in addition to a wedding I'm doing this weekend. Holy cake overload people!

The wedding we are going to on Saturday is for one of my college roommates. I haven't seen since I got married. I'm crazy excited to watch her get married and introduce her to Natalie!

Matt's working from home today so I can go to the eye doctor. Last week I went to put my new contacts in (I wear 2 week disposables) and realized that I somehow had 4 contacts of one eye left and none of the other. I've been wearing different prescriptions in my eyes for a week and it is not fun.

I'm also going to get a new pair of glasses. I've had the same pair since high school and they are kind of jank and broken. But I only wear them from the bathroom to my bed at night and in emergency situations so I haven't felt the need to get new ones. But it's time.

Natalie is playing this new game where she holds her hands and puts them on her forehead over her eyes and it looks like she's hiding. I look around all over for her and say, "Where'd Natalie go?" over and over until she lets lifts her hands up. Then I say, "There she is!" I know this doesn't sound entertaining, but she thinks it's the best game ever.

Especially when she's supposed to be eating. And knocks the spoon out of my hands.

I'm working on dropping one of our afternoon nursing sessions and incorporating more solid food into Natalie's diet at lunch and dinner. I'm not eliminating the milk all together, as I'm still offering it to her in a sippy cup. But she only drank two ounces yesterday. Hm. I cannot figure her out.

Speaking of solid food, it stresses me out. She's a pretty good eater, except for the gross veggies, and I really can't blame her there. But how am I supposed to know how much she's supposed to eat? Is she still hungry? What else could I be giving her? I feel like she eats the same things all the time and it's totally boring. Ideas?

When I was meal planning this week, I noticed I accidentally scheduled some sort of enchiladas two days in a row. And I didn't change it.

It seems like the whole country is freezing and getting snow and for once in my life Cleveland is...dare I say it...nice!?! Like in the 50s and not raining! Just beautiful.

Natalie's First Halloween!

2011-11-02T06:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Halloween from our little ballerina!

Natalie had a chance to wear her costume several times in the last week or two! First, we went to visit Daddy at work for a treat or treat around his office. His firm hosts it every year and this is the first year we've been able to go...since, you know, we haven't had a kid before! Natalie took a little time out to help Daddy with his memo.

Then we went to a costume party for a playgroup we are in. Can you believe she put her little feet like this all by herself? And her arms!?! I swear I did not make her do that!

And then Natalie went trick or treating with a few friends on Halloween!

I have to give all of the credit to my MIL who made Natalie's tutu, shoes, and headband. Isn't she amazing? I did pick out the shirt....and had it monogrammed. That counts for something, right?

Oxygen Mask

2011-11-01T06:00:00.000-04:00

Lately I've been in a weight loss rut. I've been yo-yoing the entire month of October and it's so frustrating. I find myself super motivated one day and then not caring one bit the next. Or even bouncing between these two extremes in the same day! Like in the morning I'm awesome...but by the evening I'm searching for any trace of chocolate we have in the house.

I'm trying hard to get my motivation back. For starters I try to get to the gym four times a week. It's been a little difficult lately as we've been out of town so much and Natalie keeps getting sick. But I really do better when I have that time at the gym.

I attended a spinning class on Monday where the instructor spoke about the hour as being our oxygen mask. She said we needed to use that hour to refuel ourselves so we could be better able to give to our loved ones the rest of the day. Kind of like the oxygen mask on the airplane. You're supposed to put your own on before you help someone else, right? Well, same concept here. We give and give all day long and need that time to better ourselves. It's not selfish. It's necessary.

That concept really struck me. I do feel like I give all day long and have very little time for myself. Now, I chose to give. I want to give. I'm called to give. But it can be draining day after day. I'm thankful for that time I get at the gym to sweat it out and really concentrate on myself for a change. Natalie is always so good in the nursery so I am finding myself worrying less and less about how she is and what she's doing and more about working out harder.

Spinning has become my thing. It's my time to push myself. To prove to myself that I can do this. I need it. And although it's the most difficult thing I've ever done, I crave it. Hoping it can be the push I need to get back in the game.

What's your thing?

The One Where I Fed My Daugher Heavy Cream

2011-10-31T06:00:00.000-04:00

I don't think I've mentioned this too much but not only am I still nursing Natalie, I am also making my own baby food. I'm a little embarrassed to admit that I had never heard of making baby food until I read it on a few blogs before I was even pregnant. I starred those posts right up and knew when I had my own baby I would at least try to do it. So that's what we've done!

Natalie's had sweet potatoes, peas, green beans, carrots, avocados, pears, peaches, apples, squash, bananas, and chicken...all homemade. Now, this is as crunchy as I get. I'm a disposable diaper kind of girl...and although I'm still nursing, I don't freak out about what I eat. Natalie has shown no aversion to anything and, you know, I like food. But that's just me. I look at it as floating the middle ground. It works for us. We go with it.

I make all of her food in bulk, puree those suckers up, and then freeze them in ice cube trays so it's all ready when I need it. All of her cubes are in Ziploc baggies in the freezer, labeled.

Okay. Most of them are labeled.

It got to the point where I thought, "I know what these are! Why do I need a label?"

So I stopped.

On another, not so unrelated note, I heard on a program once about how you can freeze your leftover heavy cream in ice cube trays as not to waste it. I thought this was a fantastic idea as I tend to buy heavy cream when a recipe calls for it...and then I end up throwing the rest out because it expires before I have a chance to use the rest of the container. Well, no more! I froze those bad boys up and saved them.

Just like the baby food.

Do you see where this is going?

Hm.

One evening for dinner I thought it was a good idea to try out the newly pureed chicken (sounds yum, right?) with some pears for a sauce. When I took it out of the microwave, I thought it looked a little liquidy but didn't think too much about it. Natalie wasn't too thrilled with it and only had two bites. No big deal. Girl definitely lets me know when it's something she doesn't like.

Later that night it dawned on me.

HOLY HELL! I DIDN'T USE PEARS, I USED THE HEAVY CREAM!

Mom fail to the infinity degree. I fed my child heavy cream.

Needless to say, the labels have made a permanent appearance.

Rub a Dub Dub

2011-10-27T06:00:00.000-04:00

Bath time hasn't always been something Natalie was thrilled about. In fact, when she was a newborn she hated it. I mean, screamed bloody murder the entire bath, hated it. I still remember her first bath where she didn't cry. Matt was bathing her and I was cleaning up her room and I called out to him to make she was still alive. I was that amazed she wasn't screaming.

Eventually, Natty poo learned to enjoy bath time. I think it will only get more fun for her as she grows up, but for now she splashes a little bit in her tub and is perfectly content to just sit there and get clean. But one thing must be present for her to behave.

Her hammerhead shark.

I've given her a few bath toys over the last few months but this little guy has been beyond her favorite. He's the only one she plays with when I put several in the tub. We take him with us on trips and vacations. I was originally just doing it to bring a little sense of home along with us to make her more comfortable. I didn't realized until we returned from our last trip just how attached she was to this little guy.

I hadn't fully unpacked yet when it came time to give her a bath so I tried to substitute a few new bath toys into the mix. A toy is a toy right? Wrong. Girl threw a fit. I couldn't figure out what was wrong at first. And then it dawned on me...I bet she wants that silly shark!

Sure enough, I got it out of the suitcase and everything was right with the world.

Aren't babies funny? So silly the things they fall in love with. I mean, her favorite toy is a wooden spoon. Of course it is.

JLC 100th Year Cake

2011-10-26T07:52:00.001-04:00

This year marks 100 years since the Junior League of Cleveland was established. We're having a year long celebration which kicked off Monday evening at our general membership meeting. I was asked to make a cake to celebrate this momentous occasion and this is what I came up with!

It was red velvet cake with cream cheese frosting. Just as a warning, cream cheese icing will melt when left out of the fridge for an extended period of time. And even though it says it is crusting icing, that is a bold faced lie. Your decorations will slide right off the cake and you will have to send your husband to Costco for more powdered sugar that evening in order to make regular buttercream icing. Which is not stressful at all. At all.

There were a lot of things I would've done differently with this cake, but it was such a great learning experience for me. One thing's for sure, nothing goes quite as planned when the icing hits the cake.

But even after all of the headaches, I am pleased with the final presentation. I received so many sweet comments from members not only about the look but the taste....which is important to me. I tried a new recipe and the cake scraps were oh so yummy!

We had a ton leftover (isn't that always the case) but it was a lovely evening and I was so honored to be asked to make a cake for such an important group of women. And hey, perhaps I'll get some business from it?!? Yippee!

It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2011-10-25T11:35:00.000-04:00

Last year, our Christmas cards featured some maternity photos I had taken in the fall before our sweet little girl was born. This seems like so long ago looking back now. I mean, here I am, huge as ever, and Natalie wasn't even born yet. Amazing what changes a year can bring.

Well this year, I am pleased as punch to get to spread our holiday cheer with the face of the best thing I ever did (and perhaps Matt and me...this is yet to be determined). A year of firsts for sure, Natalie's first Christmas is something I have been looking forward to since before I was pregnant. Weird, I know. But finally having the child I have prayed for and celebrating our Lord together will be so much more joyful than ever before.

I have been scouring Shutterfly's website searching for the very best card to feature my sweetie. Here are some of my favorites:

If you're looking for some great holiday cards, I really do recommend Shutterfly. And not only because they give them to me. They are very high quality cards and I love the designs and ability to add photos and be creative. So check them out!

*I received 50 free Holiday Cards from Shutterfly for this blog post*

A Little Taste of My Day

2011-10-24T09:09:00.000-04:00

Here is the sweetest sound you will ever hear. Guaranteed.

Told you.

9 Months!

2011-10-20T06:00:00.000-04:00

My sweet, growing girl. Somehow you have been with us 9 whole months. I can't believe you are that old, but at the same time it feels like you've always been here. It's difficult for me to remember a time without your toothy grin. It's like you were a part of me even before you were born.

Stats:
Length: 29 1/2 in. (97%)
Weight: 20 lbs. 1 oz. (75%)
Head: 17 3/8 in. (50%)

You've had quite the busy month as always! Most notably, you've started clapping! It's pretty much my new favorite thing. Although you don't do it on command or even when you see other people clap. We're learning quickly you are a girl who does what she wants when she wants it. Your Daddy says you get this from me. Hm.

You've got four big chompers now, two bottom and two top teeth. You're sporting quite the gap between the top teeth but we've been assured this is in fact a good thing to give your big girl teeth room to come in. Mama sure does hope so! Only the last top tooth gave you any trouble and you were really just fussy the day it was coming in. I'd say so far we've been very lucky in the teething department.

We put your swing and your infant carrier away this month. And when I say away I mean they're sitting in front of the basement door in a stand off between your Mommy and Daddy as to who is going to take them downstairs. Unfortunately, Daddy always wins so I'll be taking them down this week. But I just cannot believe you are going through baby equipment so quickly!

You were quite the traveler this month as you spent time in Nashville with Mommy's godparents, Gatlinburg with Daddy's extended family, and Indy for a week. You rock out in your pack 'n play and just make it so easy on us when it comes to trips.

You are incredibly sweet and in my unbiased opinion, the happiest baby I have ever seen. You are always smiling! I cannot take you anywhere without someone commenting about how darling you are or how good you are acting. And you know what? You're that way at home too. We have our moments, sure. But you only really get upset when you're sleepy. And seriously, who can blame you for that?

We've been working a lot on standing this month and you are taking real steps when we hold your hands. You can also take a few steps by yourself along the couch when you want to get to something...like the remote! You're not pulling up yet though and seem perfectly content to scoot on your belly in your weirdo army crawl forever. You can get in a legit crawling position and rock back and forth, but then you just plop on your belly and scoot to what you want. You'll get it someday goofball.

You got your first cold this month, presumably on the flight to Nashville, and we had some rough nights. You were very congested and woke up when you weren't able to breathe. It took about two weeks for you to completely recover. We went through Boogie Wipes like crazy in this house and your humidifier became your bestie for sure.

Your new favorite toys are the CD's we have in a stand in the family room. Whenever you're on the ground you go right for them. You stop when I say, "Natalie! No! Those are not for babies!" And then you smile at me. And then you go right back to banging them together. Like I said, you do what you want.

Your hair is growing like crazy! I can't quite put it up though as you have a ton of hair on top and behind your ears...but none on the sides of your head. Sometimes you twirl your hair behind your ears and pull on it because I think it's itching you! I'll have to find some sort of clip that stays in your super fine hair. I tried one day put you just took it out and ate it. Per usual.

You've started holding your little arms up when I go to pick you up which I absolutely love. It's like you're reaching for me. And when you're excited you do what your Daddy and I like to call the "happy kicky dance" where you flail around in our arms and just smile. You 'talk' quite a bit but are pretty quiet when you're around new people. You've been letting other people hold you, though, very well and that makes me very happy.

I finally got you to start eating three solid meals a day near the end of your 8th month. You just were not into having lunch for some reason. But now we're throwing in some finger foods and you're getting it. The only food you can successfully feed yourself is Puffs, but we're working with fruits, cheeses, and chicken as well. We've also added yogurt to your diet and some spices for your morning oatmeal.

A big moment for us both this month...you spent a whole day away from Mommy. We were apart from about 8 until 4 and you did just perfect! You napped and ate for your grandparents and probably didn't miss me one bit. I, on the other hand, called twice to check on you and missed you like crazy! But it was a big step and one I'm hoping to make more often. It's good for both of us.

And now for some outtakes, because you know each photo session is getting harder and harder...

I spent practically the whole time saying one of two things: "Natalie, look at Mommy!" or "Natalie! Get your fingers out of our your mouth!"

One, Two, Three, Four...First Down!

2011-10-19T06:00:00.000-04:00

When Natalie and I went back home to Indy for the week, my sweet brother got us tickets to the Purdue game. He works in the equipment department for the basketball team, but scored us some awesome tickets to the football game and showed us all around the facilities. It was so cool to get a behind the scenes look.

As an aside, did you know he has to scan his hand before the door will open to the locker room? I mean, I pretty much bleed black and gold but seriously Purdue? This isn't a bank vault. It's a Big Ten locker room. Pretty sure that money could be better spent elsewhere.

Anyway...I was whipping out my camera everywhere and making Matt take pictures of me nonstop. Matt and my parents were quite annoyed but I couldn't help it! I mean, I was in the locker room! And sitting where Matt Painter sits! Hello, people. This is a big deal!

Me and my bro in the football locker room before the game

This is where the head basketball coach watches film. Pretty cool huh? I wonder if Gene sat here or if this is a new purchase since he retired? Let's just pretend this is the exact same chair Coach Keady sat in, okay? Living the dream...

Hummel's locker. What a mess...

And yes, I am carrying around my breast pump with me. Life of a nursing mom...

Basketball players' film room. Those chairs were so comfortable! I could've stayed right there and taken a nap...

This is a view from where I was sitting at the film screen, which is really just the entire wall. Matt was beyond thrilled to be there let alone get his picture taken. What can I say, I married a Hoosier.

Needless to say I had a blast. We won...I got to walk around campus and reminisce about dorm rooms, old friends, frat parties, and all night bar hopping...and I got to have my favorite calzone from Love Shack as well as a Den Pop. Pretty much a fantastic day.

AND, I left Natalie with my in laws for the whole day and she didn't die. Can you believe it? She survived being taken care of by people that love her as much as I do? I know, right. And I only called twice. Pretty impressive, huh?

Playing a Little Catch Up!

2011-10-18T06:00:00.000-04:00

Since I've been MIA for some time, I bet y'all are just dying to see some pictures of my sweetie, yes?

I thought so.

Here's a little bit of what we've been up to, brought to you in the form of: pictures from my phone! Ta da!

Taking long naps in the car on road trips...

Rooting for our favorite college football team...

Hanging out with Daddy on the weekends...

I love this look she's giving him!

Working on using our sippy cup...

Girl can totally do it herself, but she doesn't understand to lean her head back to get to the water. And when I try to help her, she just lets go. Lazy bones.

Growing a serious mop...

And generally being the happiest baby on the planet...

We sure hit the jackpot with her. She's all smiles, even when she's dealing with a case of the sickies, of which we are currently in the midst. How did she catch this, you ask? Hm. I have an idea. We went to dinner with friends Saturday evening and they brought along their two sick kids. Nice, right? Runny noses and coughing at the dinner table. And now my little one is congested.

How rude.

Fall with a Daughter

2011-10-17T06:00:00.000-04:00

Sorry for my crazy long blog hiatus friends! I didn't really do it on purpose. Sometimes life just gets in the way, huh?

We've been out of town and busy, busy, busy so I have lots of updates for you! First up...apple picking!

Matt and I go apple picking every year and I was so excited to share it this year with our daughter. As an aside, want to know something weird? It still feels unreal to me to say "daughter" and know she's mine. I have a daughter. When will that sentence not feel like a dream? I mean, the girl is 9 months old!

We ended up venturing out on a weekend that was a little cold and wet...but we still had a great time and came away with a ton of apples. Good thing they keep well! I have them coming out of my ears!

Girl looks more and more like her daddy every single day.

We let Natalie try some of an apple and she didn't seem too impressed. Apparently since she has some in her oatmeal almost every day she could have cared less it was fresh from the tree. Girl is our child for sure.

Winner, Winner!

2011-10-02T15:30:00.002-04:00

Hey y'all!

Thanks so much to everyone who entered my digital scrapbooking giveaway from My Memories!

And the winner is...

Charity!

Congrats Charity! Shoot me an e-mail and I'll give you the instructions on how you download your software FOR FREE!

Hope y'all have a lovely rest of your weekend!!

How I Survived A Raccoon

2011-09-29T06:00:00.000-04:00

Giveaway! Here! Check it out! Ending Soon!

So this raccoon.

Y'all.

Okay. Let's start from the beginning. Matt and I were venturing out to Gatlinburg around maybe 8-8:30 p.m. one evening. We had one of those cabins with the walk around porches, you know? So we were making our way around the back to the stairs where all of the cars were parked. I heard something coming from the dumpster that was at the bottom of the stairs. Sure enough, I see two little eyes poking out staring back at me. Like a freak, I take off running back into the cabin. I may have even screamed "holy shit" several times, most definitely loud enough for my in laws to hear me. Score one for daughter in law of the year.

I retold the craziness of my encounter with the raccoon, psyched myself up (with the knowledge that the only thing standing between me and my fudge was that little beady eyed bastard), and headed back outside.

We made our way slowly to the stairs when suddenly the raccoon jumped out of the dumpster and started after us! I ran to the other side of the cabin and found myself at a dead end. Matt was close behind me trying to shoo the monster away with what I believe was a fleece hoodie. Very intimidating. Apparently this raccoon had no intentions of backing down as it continued to back us into a corner. So I did what any sane person would do. I jumped up onto the railing and jumped off the cabin.

Technically, Matt jumped off first. And I thought to myself, "Okay. I guess we're really jumping!" And then I jumped.

I'm not sure how to describe how high we were. But it was high enough that you had to think twice about jumping for fear of hurting yourself, but not high enough that you wouldn't do it. I contemplated jumping on one of the cars but I figured a huge ass print on my FIL's Infiniti would not be the best present to give. Especially after the "holy shit" incident.

We ran to the car, jumped inside, and had ourselves a good laugh about how crazy it was. I mean, we were chased by a raccoon! And we jumped off of our cabin! Too funny. Unfortunately I came away with two scraped knees to prove it.

When we got back, we found out our little friend had made it's way onto the porch and brushed up against Matt's cousin's leg! And if you can believe it, he thought it was a cat! Ah! After everyone was finally inside, the raccoon stood outside the sliding glass door, peering into our cabin for most of the night. Needless to say, it was a good thing I wasn't there to witness that.

Now I know these little guys must be accustomed to having people around all the time, but come on. Is that really normal? Eek! It gives me the heebie jeebies just thinking about it!

Rocky Top Tennessee

2011-09-28T06:00:00.000-04:00

Seriously peeps, check out what I'm giving away this week!

A few weeks ago Natalie and I took our first solo plane ride into Nashville to visit my aunt and uncle. We had an absolute blast there. We spent Monday-Wednesday with them in their gorgeous home and soaked up all of our one on one time with them that we could. I cannot tell you how incredibly these two are. Do you have those people in your life that you know God hand picked just for you? Well these two are it for me. I didn't come from a truly Godly home, but the best decision my parents ever made in terms of my faith was choosing these two as my godparents. And I'm thrilled Natalie will have them as her examples as well.

before we left for the airport

view from our room onto the golf course

We took nightly walks with their dog Kali, ordered pizza, ate chocolate dipped strawberries, Skyped with my sweet, mama-to-be cousin in South Korea, and just relaxed. Do you know what a weird feeling it is during nap time not to have something to clean or cook or someone to call? It was amazing.

this is how Natalie sleeps...head right in the corner...every.single.night.

Thursday, Matt flew into Nashville and we made the drive into Gatlinburg. His side of the family rented a cabin and we all stayed together. It was...interesting. I mean, don't get me wrong, it was lovely to see everyone and I am so glad Natalie got to spend time with her extended family. But seriously, we did nothing. All these people want to do is sit in a cabin all day and talk. Call me crazy but if I'm going to drive my booty all the way to Gatlinburg, I'm going to at least go into the city and get myself some freaking fudge. So after we put Natalie to bed on Saturday evening, Matt and I headed out by ourselves. I got fudge, wine, and ended up having just the best night with my hubby. And let me just add that after I have wine, I am much more open to just sitting around and talking. Win, win people. Win, win.

every good road trip needs a stop at Shoney's right?

someone is rapidly growing out of her clothes...

Our last day we did head out to the outlet mall and enjoyed a full day of shopping. Somehow only Natalie and Matt ended up with anything. Not sure how that happened. Why do moms always get the shaft? Hm. We made the drive back to Nashville on Sunday (holy traffic Gatlinburg!) and flew back to Cleveland on Monday. Although we had some serious travel issues (i.e. flight being delayed then cancelled...and 16 hours of traveling) we made it home in one piece. My sweetie did develop her first cold when we were away and is still suffering from a runny nose. And to top it off, we have tooth number 4 coming in. When it rains it pours, huh?

Matt's sundae. Perhaps we should've gone with the regular?

And coming up...how I was almost killed by a raccoon. And no I am not lying.

8 Months Old!

2011-09-27T06:00:00.001-04:00

Don't forget to enter my giveaway. Your odds...they're really good :)

My sweet girl, you are 8 months old! I just cannot believe how quickly you are growing up. Every day I turn around and you are another month older, doing something new, and growing like a weed. You amaze me, sweet pea, with all of the things you have learned and I am so thankful to be here for each step of your journey.

You are wearing mostly 9-12 month clothes and size 3 diapers. You're still nursing 4 times a day with two solid meals a day. And as usual, you're sleeping like a champ. You're down by 7 and up again between 6:30-8...only to eat and go back down. You also nap twice during the day, both of which last 30-45 minutes.

We've started you on a sippy cup with some water for practice. You have completely mastered getting the water out but don't really understand the concept of leaning your head back to get to it. Mommy holds it up for you and you drop your hands and make me feed you. Lazy girl...

Since you were getting so big, we switched out your infant carrier for your big girl car seat. You really seem to like it! You're also sitting in highchairs and the shopping cart like a big girl. We cannot go anywhere without someone commenting about how beautiful and happy you are. A smile rarely leaves your face. Your Daddy and I are so thankful you are such a happy girl!

The only time you fuss is when you're tired. And fuss isn't really the best word. More like scream. You're completely fine and then suddenly it's like a switch turned on and you MUST GO TO BED RIGHT THIS SECOND OR I'M GOING TO KEEP SCREAMING LIKE A MANIAC. Your favorite place to do this is in restaurants. We love that.

You are scooting around like crazy these days! If anything is on the floor, it's fair game for you. You've mastered a type of army crawl and can get to anything you want. You can get on your knees but then fall to the floor and pull yourself forward with just your arms. It's quite the sight.

You're very much into blowing raspberries and love when we do it to you. You're new favorite toy (besides Sophie of course) is your Taggie ball. Girl, you cannot get enough of tags. I don't get it but you seem to find them everywhere. You've also started clapping this month! You've been banging toys together for a while so I knew it was only a matter of time before you dropped them and just used your hands.

We've been working on a few signs this month (milk, eat, all done) but I'm not sure you get what I'm doing. You have signed milk a few time when you are actually nursing...but it looks more like you're just opening and closing your fist for fun. Who knows? Maybe I'm not giving you enough credit.

Your top tooth came in giving you three now! You look like such a little lady with all those teeth. Gone are the days of your gummy smiles.

We tried out Little Gym this month and you seemed to really have a good time. Mommy is planning on taking you back sometime next year when you can be more interactive. We pretty much do all of the activities at home already.

You graduated and moved up to a new nursery at church. You're with all these walking, crawling kids and not with the babies anymore. Mama had a hard time with the transition. I have no idea how I am going to handle actually sending you to school. Where's my baby?!?

Your Aunt Jessi and Uncle Dave came to visit you over Labor Day and you had so much fun! They were so sweet to you and it was nice to have some new company over. We took a trip back to Indy for a quick weekend visit and you did so well. I'm glad you sleep well in your pack 'n play. That sure does make traveling so much easier. And when we were there you got your first ride in a park swing! Oh that smile! You and Mommy also flew down to Nashville all by ourselves to visit Aunt Tami and Uncle Dale. To say you were perfect on the plane would even be an understatement. It could not have been easier. Unfortunately, our plane trip led to your first cold which you are still getting over. Everyone should buy stock in Boogies Wipes the way we're going through them over here.

We're creeping closer and closer to your first birthday, little one, and I am filled with so many emotions. I'm so happy you are growing into a beautiful, happy, sweetie pie of a girl. But I long for my little, squishy newborn sometimes. But I chose to be joyful through all of your days and thank God for every second we get to spend together.

I could not love you more baby girl. God gave me the sweetest, most precious gift when He blessed me with you. You fill my heart with such love I sometimes feel like it with burst.

Love you baby,

Mommy

Digital Scrapbooking GIVEAWAY!

2011-09-26T06:30:00.000-04:00

The lovely people at My Memories recently contacted me to review their digital scrapbooking software. With it, you are able to create scrapbook layouts, photo books, cards, videos...all sorts of neat things. I had just started working on a photo book for Natalie's first year so this software came at the perfect time.

I was able to download it right to my computer in just minutes. Although I was a little intimidated by all of the choices I had at first, I do think the software is very user friendly. I used one of their templates and whipped up this little keepsake of my sweetie in no time. I was able to add photos, text, and other embellishments to the pages. Instead of doing just a scrapbook, I decided to go ahead and make it into a video and add Natalie's favorite tune at the moment. This song is on repeat at our house as it's the only way I can get her to eat her vegetables...funny...seeing as it's a song about fruit. So, what do you think?

Likey?? Well y'all are in luck! I'm giving away a copy of this software FOR FREE! It's $40 on their website so this is a serious steal people. Want to get your hands on this? Here's what you need to do:

1. Visit their website and tell me what your favorite digital paper pack or layout is.
2. That's it.

I really hate those giveaways that make you go to Facebook, Twitter, and every other social media site on the planet to enter. So I won't make you do that. If you would like to visit their blog, Facebook page, or follow them on Twitter...go for it! But you don't have to in order to win. You love me, right?

So comment away my friends! I'll choose a winner randomly on Sunday, October 2nd. Good luck!

Disclaimer: I received a free download of the software in exchange for my honest review of the material.

Happy 4 Years...

2011-09-22T06:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Anniversary sweetie. I can't imagine being on this journey with anyone else.

Yours Forever,

Jenny

Thursday Randoms

2011-09-15T06:00:00.000-04:00

For your Thursday pleasure, the randomness that is Jenny:

My sweet girl turns 8 months old today. She has three teeth, is practically crawling, and has started college. At least that's what it feels like to me.

My sister let me borrow the Hunger Games (I know...I'm the last person on the planet to read them) and I actually thought, "Hey, I can read that on the plane on the way to Nashville." Then I remembered that I can no longer do such leisurely things like read on a plane.

I'm going back to Purdue for a football game this October and I am beyond excited. I haven't been back to campus is so long.

We're leaving Natalie with Matt's parents for the day and I am already having to calm myself down when I think about it. Like my blood pressure starts to rise and my breathing quickens. It will be the longest I have ever left her with anyone awake (compared to 2 hours) and I am so nervous.

But then I think, hello psycho. She's 8 months old. And they are her grandparents. What do you think is going to happen?

Sometimes being a parent is hard. It sure does change your priorities but nothing changes for anyone else. I think that has been the hardest part of having a child for me. The amount of people who are not in your "new baby" situation that have no idea what you are going through and just do not understand what new, everyday challenges your life has turned into. You're not the person you used to be. You've changed. At least I did.

I'm currently watching the last season of Friday Night Lights and I do not want it to end. I didn't love the show at first but it has definitely grown on me. I am so in love with Coach Taylor it is bordering on unhealthy. And Tim Riggins. Oh, gotta get me some Tim Riggins.

Netflix is seriously the way to watch T.V. people. I rarely even turn on the actual T.V. anymore. Except to watch Days of Our Lives of course.

Speaking of Days, all of my favorite characters are coming back in this big new launch of the show on the 26th and I am so excited I can hardly see straight! How do I know this? Well, there is a chance I get Soap Opera Digest. Wait, wait, let me explain. Matt saw it on DealNews one day for free so I signed up. I would not pay for Soap Opera Digest. But now that I have it, I love it.

Weight Watchers is going pretty well. I've had a bit of a rough few weeks with having my sister in town (aka: Red Whoopie Pies) and being out of town. But I'm just a few pounds away from pre-Natalie and I am so excited about it. It only took me 8 months...which in my opinion is awesome seeing as it took me 9 to put it on. Let's not mention the 40 additional pounds I need to lose after that okay? Oh my life is a diet.

Fave Recipes of the Week

2011-09-13T06:00:00.000-04:00

In lieu of a formal Menu Monday post, I thought I would instead share with you some of the recipes I have made over the last few weeks. Be sure to stick around. There's dessert!

Probably the best meal I made was this 3 Meat Pizza Casserole. I fixed it when my sister was here and it's a good thing. Matt and I would've never finished it by ourselves. Well, maybe if we ate it all week. Which come to think of it would not have been a bad thing.

It says to use a 9 X 13 dish, which is what I did, and it was practically overflowing. In fact, when I came down from putting Natalie to bed I thought I smelled something burning in the oven and sure enough it had leaked all over the place. As an aside, hello family members that were sitting right there the whole time? Get with it! My house is practically catching on fire and you're just sitting there watching T.V.?

I did make a few changes to the recipe. I left out the ham because I'm more of a pepperoni and sausage only kind of girl. So technically I made a 2 Meat Pizza Casserole. Also, the recipe called for 1/2-1 lb. of pepperoni. I had an 8 oz. bag and didn't have nearly enough room to use all of it. The recipe instructed you to only put it on the top of the casserole. Next time I would use it all but also include more within the actual dish.

But y'all. This was fantastic. Not good for you by any means. Not at all. But if you're looking for a dish to feed to a hungry crowd, this would definitely do the trick. It could feed at least 8 no problem.

Next up, Bubble Up Enchiladas. These were also quite delicious. I have no idea why they are called enchiladas when they're made with biscuits and not tortillas...but hey...I didn't name the recipe so I just went with it. Fantastic. It's supposed to be all healthy but I didn't go that route. I used regular biscuits and ground beef. Oh yes I did.

I made some cupcakes for a former co-worker and decided on Annie's Cookies and Cream Cupcakes. I did sneak one before I gave them away and I'm so glad I did. The cream cheese icing was to die for. And the cake was so moist and yummy. Totally worth the 11 points. Yes. You read that right. I wasted 11 points on a freaking cupcake. It was that good.

Another main dish we tried was Chili & Cheese Macaroni. It was pretty good. Nothing blew me away about the dish...but worth a shot. I'm not sure I'd make it again but it was alright. Have I sold you on it yet?

Moving on...

When my sister was here I felt the urge to bake. Perhaps it was the bottle of champagne we were drinking? Or the wine we had later? Not sure. But I was taking requests. My BIL wanted something red velvet and cream filled. Hm. Strange combo I thought. But I remembered these beauties and whipped them right up.

These Red Velvet Whoopie Pies were fantastic. They were also 11 points but I think I made them too big. You definitely could make them smaller for less of a diet buster. Next time I think I will add some milk to the icing though. It was way too think to use in a pastry bag and pipe on to make it look pretty. But this wasn't a "let's make something that looks pretty" occasion. It was more of a "let's make something that tastes delicious and sugary" occasion. Done.

Lastly, I threw together some Chunky Peanut Butter Cookies the other day for a friend. We were finally able to get over to see her beautiful baby girl and I didn't want to show up empty handed. I decided on these as my darling husband gave me zero notice (as in maybe 3 hours beforehand) and it was the only recipe I could find where I had all of the ingredients. I thought they were super yummy and I would definitely make them again. In fact, I'm wishing I would've saved myself some. Hm. Fail.

Up, Up, & Away!

2011-09-12T06:30:00.000-04:00

As you're reading this, Natalie and I are flying the friendly skies to Nashville, TN to visit my godparents. I am so excited to spend some real, quality time with them. Our visits are few and far between and I intend to remedy that situation immediately. They are amazing, Godly people and I want Natalie to spend as much time with them as possible. And their sweet daughter is newly pregnant so they need to get in some practice with the babies!

Here they are at my wedding. Don't you just want to squish them they're so cute!?! Oh I cannot wait to get there!

Matt will be joining us on Thursday and then we'll be driving down to Gatlinburg for the remainder of the week for a family reunion with his side of the family. I am less than thrilled about this trip...but the cabin looks amazing so I am trying to be optimistic. Perhaps the view will make up for awkward silences and snide comments? I'll let you know. At least I have that great excuse now for when I don't want to do something..."I'm so sorry I can't go to dinner with you guys! But it's Natalie's bedtime. Maybe next time?" Nursing saves me again!

Hope y'all have a fabulous week!

Dining Room Before and After

2011-09-09T06:00:00.000-04:00

Over Labor Day weekend, my sister and her husband came over from Chicago to visit. They hadn't been here since Natalie was born in January so it had been quite some time. Needless to say we were all very excited to get together!

We had a wonderful weekend full of catching up, playing with Natalie, and of course...food. I'll post a little more about that later this week. But their main focus this weekend was helping us paint! And when I say helping us paint, I really mean doing it all. I rolled some...but after attempting Natalie's nursery I quickly came to realize that painting is just not one of my strengths. I'm not ashamed to admit that I pretty much suck at it. So when my sister offered up her services, I jumped at the chance.

After much consideration, we decided to begin with the dining room. There is a chair rail in there so I was forced to pick two colors, a daunting task to say the least. Especially when the husband was no help at all. Unless you call giving no suggestions but shooting down all of your ideas helping. Which I do not.

So I said forget him and I did what I wanted.

Obviously.

Here are some before shots:

Well, they were kind of before shots. Just picture this without the sheet on the table and it's pretty much how it looked before.

So how did it turn out?

I am in love with it. I think the colors turned out just perfectly and I could not be more pleased. I'd eventually like to paint the tray ceiling the Mahogany color but I guess that will have to wait until next visit, right Jess?

An Unexpected Treat

2011-09-08T06:00:00.000-04:00

Y'all seriously have to watch this. I mean, it's priceless.

We took this last week when Natalie was waking up and we got a big surprise. Could not have planned this if I tried. Just promise me one thing, okay? If you ever meet her, don't ever tell her about this, okay?

It's just too ~~hilarious~~ cute not to share.

My New Ride

2011-09-07T06:00:00.000-04:00

Have I told y'all about my car?

My sweet little 2000 Taurus that's on her last leg?

Honestly, she's not so little. But that's beside the point. She's dying people. And it breaks my heart. We've been through a lot together. I've had her since 2005. During that time I've gone to grad school, moved to Cleveland, started and quit my first big girl job, gotten married, and had a baby. She's made the drive from Indianapolis to Cleveland more times than I can count. I've tried to treat her well, but let's be real here friends. I'm never going to win any "driver of the year" awards. But her missing passenger mirror, scratches on the fender, and dents in the passenger side door show character in my opinion. Plus, they weren't all my fault. Wait. Were they?

Near the end of June I took her to get an oil change and they gave me the bad news. The gist (because I cannot even begin to explain to you what is wrong...I don't speak car) is fixing her isn't worth it.

Since hearing those words, I've been on the hunt for a new vehicle. So, almost three months. Three months I've spent driving only to the gym and back because my car is unsafe. Three months of only being able to look at cars on Saturdays because I have a husband that gets home when the dealerships are closed and a baby that goes to bed at 6:30 p.m. It's been a struggle. But that struggle, has finally come to an end.

Last weekend I bought a new car!!!! Well, it's new to me. We don't do new in this house. Neither Matt nor I have ever had a car payment and I'm not sure we ever will. We live by the motto of not buying things you can't afford. So we waited and searched and finally found my sweet new ride!

(this is not my exact car...I'm too lazy to get up off the couch and take a picture)

Now I have things like a sun roof, a CD player, and a radio that shows the name and song of the artist the station is playing. I've hit the big time people. Step aside.

In all seriousness, I could not be more excited about my car. I've been wanting an SUV for so long and it's the perfect time for one. My little girl sure does require an astonishing amount of gear. Her stroller alone barely fits in Matt's trunk. So this beauty, it's just perfect.

I did give the Taurus a long hug goodbye in the dealership parking lot before I drove away. No. I'm not kidding. And I actually feel bad for trading her. I feel like she knows. I have issues. But she's served her purpose. She was a great car and had a really good life.

Goodbye sweet Taurus. I'll miss you!

Now, what to name my Bravada? I feel like it's a boy. Any ideas?

No Wonder My Pants Won't Button

2011-09-01T06:30:00.002-04:00

In case you're wanting to blow your diet anytime soon....here are some recipes I have put on my must make immediately list.

Source: heatovento350.blogspot.com via Jenny on Pinterest

Source: howsweeteats.com via Jenny on Pinterest

Source: joylicious.net via Jenny on Pinterest

Source: flickr.com via Jenny on Pinterest

Source: sweetapolita.com via Jenny on Pinterest

Source: blog.fossil.com via Jenny on Pinterest

Source: bakingbites.com via Jenny on Pinterest

You're welcome.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-08-31T06:30:00.002-04:00

Impromptu Four Generation Pic (AKA: why I'm in my pajamas)

Menu Monday

2011-08-29T09:07:00.000-04:00

Monday: Orange Chicken

This was that straight up out of a box frozen meal from Costco that has been on repeat for months. It comes with two packages so this was package number 2. It's yummy, easy, but very high in points and not something I'm into every week. It makes the day seem so long when I've used the rest of my points up by 11:30 and have to wait until 7:30 to eat this. Bring on the fruit.

WW Points: 19 points (1 3/4 cups) + 4 points for a serving of brown rice

Tuesday: Velveeta Italian Sausage Bake

New meal this week using the feature of plugging your ingredients into the search boxes and seeing what comes up. Mine? Sausage and penne pasta. This meal was super delicious! If you're into Velveeta of course. The thought of Velveeta kinda grosses me out, but in finished dishes I cannot deny its awesomeness.

I omitted the zucchini in this recipe so it probably could've used a little more pasta in my version, but if you follow the recipe the amount should be adequate.

WW Points: 17 points/serving
4 servings

Wednesday: Leftovers

Thursday: Bacon Cheeseburger Roll-Up

For some reason I picked two meals with Velveeta this week. Not really on purpose but it worked out well because I already had some in the fridge. This meal kind of reminds me of this yummy cheese dip my mom makes but all rolled up into a pizza dough. It's good, but I feel as if the dough is a little thick for my taste and leaves me wanting more meat. That's what she said. But nonetheless, yums.

Next time I would cook the bacon separately and then add it in later. I don't feel like it gets crispy cooking it with the beef and I'm a crispy bacon kind of girl.

WW Points: 17 points/serving
4 servings

Friday: B-Spot & Leftovers

It was Girls' Night Out Friday at B-Spot, a new restaurant in town by Michael Symon. I ended up getting a salad because I saved the rest of my points for wine. Yep. That's how I roll. Matt ate up the leftovers from the previous evening.

Saturday: Hamburgers & Grilled Corn

This was a last minute throw together meal as my plans for the evening fell through at the last minute. Matt was in charge as I do not grill so I just kind of made up the points for this one. AKA: a night of not caring. Followed by ice cream. With peanut butter smeared on top.

Sunday: Steak and Chicken Kabobs, Potato Casserole, Caramel Brownies

We had a cookout at a friend's house and I was of course in charge of bringing dessert. The brownies were so yummy, but they were incredibly rich and very gooey. Practically impossible to get out of the pan. They were so gooey you had to eat them with a fork. I'm not sure I would make them again because of the messiness factor but they were soooo good.

Clearly I lost no weight this week because of my weekend crazies. But some weeks, maintaining is succeeding my my book. And so is sending the leftover brownies to work with your husband.

Thursday Randoms

2011-08-25T08:16:00.000-04:00

It has been a long time since I wrote a bulleted post.

I kinda miss it.

I reminds me of when I used to blog at work. Good times.

Do y'all watch Big Brother? I'm pretty much obsessed with the show. I follow some spoiler feeds on Twitter and I try to talk to Matt about it all the time. He could care less.

What kind of toys to you buy for 7 month olds? I feel like Natalie is still playing with her baby toys and some stuffed animals and she is beyond bored.

I'm borrowing my FIL's car for a while whilst we continue to look for a new car for me. My Taurus is dying a slow death and is no longer safe. So now I'm sporting around town in a serious old man car. With two doors. Have you ever tried to get an infant carrier out of the middle seat in the back of a two door car? HELL.

Because of this, I think I'm going to switch Natalie to the convertible car seat this weekend. She's almost to the weight and height limit on her carrier anyways. Guess this was just the push I needed.

I got Natalie her first sippy cup yesterday and she looks so big using it. But seriously, there are a lot of different sippy cups out there. How the heck are you supposed to know which one to get?

My new favorite snack is the Fiber One 90 Calorie Chocolate Peanut Butter Brownie. So good and only 2 points!

I've lost 35 lbs. since starting WW after Natalie was born. I'm less than 5 lbs. away from my pre-Natalie weight! Funny how nothing seems to look the way it did before I got pregnant though.

That really sucks.

But everyday I get to spend with my sweet girl makes it totally worth it. Plus, I'm still working on another 40 lbs. so maybe it will look better when those are gone :)

Speedway Sparkplugs are the Best!

2011-08-24T08:53:00.000-04:00

Last weekend we ventured back to Indianapolis for my big 10 year high school reunion. I honestly wasn't super pumped about going but it turned out to be an incredibly fun day. It was fantastic to see all of my high school buddies again and it made me miss them terribly when I left. I really need to keep in better touch with these people because I remembered just how fabulous they all are.

The weekend started off with a picnic lunch where we could bring our families. We took some pics before we left my parents' house that afternoon.

Natalie napped through almost the whole picnic so I had a chance to chat and catch up with some friends. But when she woke up, she got to go in the swing at the park for the first time and she LOVED it. It was pretty much the cutest thing ever. She got this huge smile on her face when she was flying through the air. Priceless.

We spent the rest of the day with Matt's parents and then the two of us headed out to the main event.

It was a little awkward at first seeing everyone and going through the whole...where do you work, how old are your kids, what's new in your life...sort of conversation. Plus, Matt and I both completely suck at making small talk. So we started playing a game where he would pick out someone in the class and then try to guess the type of person they were in high school. You know, jock, band geek, smarty pants? And you know what? He guessed it right every time. Ha!

But as you might expect, once the booze got to flowing, we were all best friends again! Funny how that works, huh? But it was so great because it was as if all of the cliques just faded away and we were all friends just dancing and having a great time. I wish high school would've been like that all the time.

Let's just ignore the fact that you can see my bra in practically every picture, shall we?

Here's a pic of our whole class. There were only 88 of us so I think we had a pretty good turn out.

And no party would be complete without a picture of me doing this.

And scene.

Nataile's 6 Month Photo Shoot

2011-08-23T06:30:00.002-04:00

all photos taken by Matthew Connors

Menu Monday

2011-08-22T06:30:00.003-04:00

Monday: Leftovers

These Cheesy BBQ Sloppy Joes are just as delicious the second time around. I do wait until right before we are ready to eat to make the bread each time, though. Reheated bread = sucktastic.

Tuesday: Chicken Tortilla Casserole

I LOVE this dish. I did a lot of prep work throughout the day so it wouldn't take as long to prepare that evening (chopping the veggies, prepping the chicken, crushing the tortilla chips) and it was super delicious. Matt thinks it's only okay as he's not much of a tomato eater and the chopped tomatoes are not hidden in the slightest. His plate was full of picked out tomatoes bits. But I'm not a tomato fan myself and I think the other flavors masked it quite well. Well enough for me to eat them without spitting them out.

I used red onion instead of a shallot as I had some leftover. Also, I used 1 Tbsp. of the chipolte peppers in adobo sauce and that was plenty. Perhaps even too much. It was very spicy. Matt and I are both lovers of the heat but these peppers are my nemesis for sure. So be careful. Also, I used 5 oz. of tortillas chips and about 26 oz. of chicken. The points reflect these amounts. Oh, and no cilantro. Matt thinks it tastes like soap. I know. He's a strange, strange man.

WW Points: 14 points/serving
4 servings

Wednesday: Leftovers

Thursday: Burritos

Nothing fancy here folks. I browned 12 oz. of lean ground beef, threw in some taco seasoning...and ta da! Done. We're more of a burrito family rather than a taco family so I served the meat up in soft shells. Easy peasy!

WW Points: 8 points for 6 oz. taco meat, 3 points for 1/3 cup Mexican cheese, 6 points for 2 tortilla shells
Total meal: 17 points

Friday-Sunday

We were out of town for the weekend so no cooking for this mama!

Hope y'all are having a great Monday!!

Class of 2001 Baby!

2011-08-18T12:14:00.000-04:00

We're heading back to Indy, my hometown, this weekend for a very special event.

My 10 year high school reunion.

Dun, dun, dun.

How the heck has it been 10 years? That seems like such a long time. I feel like I've been out of high school forever...but still, 10 years sounds like forever.

I'm not super jazzed up about this reunion...in fact I probably wouldn't be going if it weren't for the fact I had to help plan the event. Yep. You're reading the blog of a former class president here. Impressed? Yes? Want to learn a little bit more about "high school Jenny?"

I was a huge nerd. Surprising, I know! I wouldn't say I was dorky, but my grades were extremely important to me and undoubtedly my top priority. I was number one in my class from 7th grade on. Yeppers. Valedictorian. Woot, woot!

But although I was very much the academic type, I also played sports. I played volleyball, basketball, and ran track. Now when I say 'ran track,' that really means I threw shot put and discus and then hid with my friends in the bathroom whilst everyone else ran their laps. And I also lounged on the high jump pit. Oh track. Good times.

But I was a legit basketball player. In fact, I still hold almost all of the rebounding records at Speedway. If I could go back to high school to do anything again it would be to play basketball. Those were probably some of the most meaningful and memorable times of my life. I remember so many conversations my dad and I would have about my games. Such a bonding experience it was for us. I miss those. Very much.

My best friends from high school, the two I still talk to, weren't in my class. So although I think it will be a good time, I'm not dying to go back. But at least I'll get to show off my little cutie pies and have a little wine. Not a bad weekend in my book!

Hope y'all have a great weekend and I'll let you know how it goes when we get back.

Loves!

How is My Child 7 Months Old?

2011-08-16T06:30:00.001-04:00

Sweet girl,

You are 7 months old! I just cannot believe you have been with us for that long. Your first birthday is creeping closer and closer and it makes Mama so sad how quickly time is passing. But I am so incredibly thankful I get to spend every single day with your sweet face. You're my world, little girl, and I wouldn't have it any other way.

You are still in size 3 diapers and are wearing 9-12 month clothes. Your length gets you every time big girl. We're still going strong with nursing and we've got ourselves on a consistent schedule for the first time!

6-7 a.m. First nursing session followed by at least 1 more hour of sleep

9:30 a.m. First solids consisting of 4 Tbsp. oatmeal mixed with apples, pears, and sweet potatoes

11:30-12:30 p.m. Nap

12:30 p.m. Nurse

3-3:45 p.m. Nap

4:00 p.m. Nurse

5:15 p.m. Second solids consisting of usually two vegetables

6:30 p.m. Nurse

Mommy has started making your solid foods for you and you are loving all of the new flavors. You always make a really funny face after your first bite...like, "Whoa! What the heck is that, Mom?" But then you eat it up. You've eaten apples, pears, avocados, bananas, green beans, summer squash, and your favorites of sweet potatoes and oatmeal. You had quite the bad reaction to bananas but you have handled everything else with no problems at all.

We've finally made the transition to napping in your crib! You usually fuss for a few minutes but then fall fast asleep. I'm so glad you have finally learned to do this as taking you out in your car seat or stroller just to fall sleep was getting super inconvenient. But now you're an old pro.

Speaking of sleep, you have been sleeping mostly on your tummy these days. At the beginning of the month you weren't able to flip yourself back onto your back and you would wake up very angry in the middle of the night insisting to be rolled over. But you've now learned to roll any which way you choose and do so in your crib all the time. For a little girl who can't crawl yet, you sure are mobile.

Probably the most exciting milestone of the month, you have teeth! Both of your bottom teeth have made their appearance and you are using them! Ouch. You had one dose of Tylenol during your first tooth but they really haven't bothered you since. You're an incredibly easy going little booger and teething has not changed your personality one bit. Yet.

You are sitting up like a big girl now and are getting steadier every single day. I feel confident leaving the room with you sitting and know you probably won't topple over. You can sit in the highchairs at restaurants now and look like such a big girl doing so. Mommy got you some shape sorting blocks this month so you sit up and play with those quite a bit.

We've spent a lot of time out and about this month looking for a new car for Mommy. You have been so well behaved each and every outing. Your Daddy and I could not be more proud of you. We are so lucky we have such a happy, laid back little girl. You've also enjoyed several play dates involving a pool. You are definitely a water baby and want to be sitting in the pool at all times. You splish and splash all over and the fact that the water is freezing doesn't bother you one bit. You did take one face plant into the pool and were very sad for 15 seconds or so...but then you wanted right back in.

You have figured out how to get your feet into your mouth and do it all the time. It's pretty much the cutest thing I've ever seen.

We participated in a Baby Thanksgiving at church where we got up on stage as a family and the whole congregation prayed for you. It was an amazing experience and I'm so happy we were able to do it. You were the cutest baby there, if I do say so myself.

You're everything to us, Natty Poo, and we love every single second we get to spend with you. Your smile lights up the room and one look at your sweet little face and all my troubles disappear. I love you more than words, my girl.

Menu Monday

2011-08-15T06:30:00.000-04:00

Monday: Three Cheese Chicken and Pasta Skillet

This was a new recipe for the week and boy was it good! I had to use up some leftover rotisserie chicken and this fit the bill. It came together very quickly for a weeknight meal (a necessity in our house) and was quite reasonable points wise. I left out the Kraft Singles because they are disgusting and a sorry excuse for cheese. In my opinion of course :) The points reflect this.

I wasn't super impressed with this dish as a leftover meal, but Matt thought it was quite good both days. Take that for what you will.

WW Points: 10 points/serving
5 servings

Tuesday: Leftovers

Wednesday: Lasagna Soup

Dude. I mean, DUDE. This soup is G.O.O.D. I insist you make this immediately. Perhaps it would be more appropriate for a cold winter month but I'm not one to get caught up in all of that garbage. Good food is good every month of the year. And this, boy is it good. I mean, the topping is called "cheesy yum." Enough said, yes?

I used chicken broth instead of stock as I already had that. I didn't notice any loss in flavor because of this substitution. I also used the leftover rotini from Monday evening as I couldn't find either of the suggested pastas at the store. I also didn't use as much basil as mine withered to grossness a little quicker than expected.

WW Points: 16 points/serving
6 servings

This could definitely be an 8 serving dish. The amount I ate was quite a large bowl but I didn't mind as it was incredibly delicious. But it made a ton. Judging by the fact I forced Matt to have two days of leftovers. But unlike the earlier dish, the taste was of the same high quality as the first night.

Thursday: Leftovers

Friday: Leftovers

Saturday: Pizza

Menu plan fail. Do you ever have nights where you just need to have pizza? I mean, deep down in your soul need it? Well, I do. And it was Saturday. It was also too many points to count. Ahem.

Sunday: Cheesy BBQ Sloppy Joes

This is a repeat dish for us. We LOVE it. I mean, whenever a recipe calls for Texas toast we are all over it. I could not recommend making this dish more. Easy, tasty, Texas toasty. Yum. Just do it.

WW Points: 21 points/serving
4 servings

FYI it's major high in points. You could totally make this into an 8 serving meal and only eat one piece of Texas toast. But you know me by now, right. That ain't my style.

Menu Monday

2011-08-08T06:30:00.001-04:00

Monday: BBQ Chicken Pizza

This pizza is really, really good. It's super easy to throw together on a weeknight and it completely holds up to my high standards of what I consider an awesome pizza. And that means a lot considering I exclusively eat sausage and cheese.

I did decide to use a 'just add water' pizza crust for this pizza instead of making my own crust. Forgive me. It was a Monday. And also, I only had two slices of bacon leftover from our Sunday breakfast. A travesty in my book. So the points include my changes.

I personally ate half the pizza. But a normal person could perhaps eat less. So please take the high point value of this recipe with that in mind.

WW Points: 25 points/half of pizza

Tuesday: Pasta Alla Vodka

I had this meal out at a restaurant a few months ago for the first time and have been craving it ever since. Finally, I had a chance to attempt a recreation. I thought this pasta was pretty good, but a little involved. I'm not a fan of recipes that involve me using a blender, the stove, and a ton of other dishes. I also didn't feel like there was enough sauce when the meal was ready. But it did have a nice kick to it which I appreciate. In conclusion, I think I'm still on the lookout for the perfect Pasta Alla Vodka recipe. Have any suggestions?

WW Points: 14 points/serving
5 servings
We served it with a side of Texas Toast (5 points for Cheese variety)

Wednesday: Leftovers
This wasn't super fab leftover. The sauce soaked up even more into the pasta so it had even less than the day before. Not such a fan.

Thursday: Cheeseburger Pie

This dish was really tasty...and super easy to make. At first it was a little weird to be eating puff pastry as a crust but the taste trumped the difficulty in getting a perfect bite. We left off all the toppings as we're not super big veggie people and thought the dressing would be a weird addition so my points reflect that.

The serving size in the recipe is 4 and I think that would've been perfectly acceptable. I, however, ate half. Obvs.

WW Points: 28 points/half of pie

Friday: Pesto Chicken Stuffed Shells

I was a little weirded out by the fact there was no sauce with this dish, but OMG this was fantastic!! Probably the best meal we've had in a long time. The cheesiness was all that was needed with each shell. And talk about easy to make. Cook the pasta, stuff them, bake them...good to go! We will definitely be making it again.

I used 16 jumbo shells so we each got 4 shells per meal. I thought this serving size was sufficient. We did have Texas toast with it one night...but ran out the next night and I was no where near starving with just eating the shells.

WW Points: 13 points/serving
4 servings

Saturday: Leftovers

Sunday: Orange Chicken

Don't get too excited friends. This was out of a box. I had grand plans to make this super awesome sounding Lasagna Soup but we didn't have time to get to the store. Next week!

We bought it frozen from Costco and it was really good...and quite yummy. Not so great for you on the points side of things so I only had a wee little bit. I've pretty much been stuffing myself full of watermelon lately that I wasn't even really hungry for dinner. I guess there are worse things to stuff yourself with than watermelon, huh?

WW Points: 11 points/serving
5 servings
If I would've been my normal self, I would've eaten more than this. Half of the package would've been almost 30 points though...so I doubt I would've done all that. Perhaps two servings at 22 points would've been perfect.

Natalie's First Tooth!

2011-08-03T06:30:00.002-04:00

Well, folks. We've officially entered the world of teething.

Natalie has been leaking some serious drool for several months now and putting anything and everything she can find in her mouth. We knew it wouldn't be long until those pearly little whites showed themselves.

As she was gnawing away on my finger Saturday evening, I thought I felt something a little pokey. Sure enough...I could see it! My sweet little girl had her first tooth!

So far, she has been handling it very well. She's been spending a little extra TLC with Sophie and a frozen wash cloth, both of which are helping. But no trouble sleeping so far, thank goodness.

But listen to her luck...my poor little sweetie...goes and cuts a tooth the same week she tries bananas. You know what that means. The worst constipation of all time...that's what. I have never felt so bad for her in my whole life. She was in so much pain on and off for over 24 hours because of those stupid bananas. Never again people. Never again. She's on a strict diet of sweet potatoes and avocados which seems to have done the trick. I've never felt so helpless in my entire life. Saddest little cries I've ever heard.

But today, we're doing much better. I'm pretty sure it's because we took a sick day yesterday. We stayed home from the gym, snuggled on the couch, and watched Friday Night Lights all day. Perfect cure! See...

Now please don't tell her I wrote a post about her poop, okay?

Menu Monday

2011-08-01T06:30:00.001-04:00

Monday: Deep Dish Pizza

Matt invented this dish. Well, I'm sure he didn't invent deep dish pizza, but it was something he made regularly before I was around. My mom always made homemade thin crust pizza so this was all new to me. I think it's really good, but I think I still prefer my mom's way. I feel like I get more pizza when I get to eat 6 slices instead of 2 even though it's the same amount of food.

We used Walmart brand pizza crust. You just add water to the packet, mix it up, let it sit for 5 minutes...and you're good to go. We're an all sausage/half pineapple kind of family (fruit on pizza is a sin in my opinion) so that's what I used. Top it with some mozz, pop it in the oven for 25 minutes at 425 degrees and you're good to go!

Recipe specifics for entire pizza:
8 oz. of sausage
1 cup pizza sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese

WW points: 22 points/serving
2 servings

Tuesday: Buffalo Chicken Sandwiches

I got this recipe from DAR, one of my very favorite bloggers who has since left the blogging world. Insert tear here. She actually got it from one of my other bloggy besties, Jenn. For some reason I can't link to your blog, Jenn, so here's your official shout out! Hey Jenn! Thanks for the yummy recipe!

I changed it up a little bit so I'll post exactly what I did here:

Ingredients:
3 chicken breasts (2 lbs. 8 oz.)
1 bottle of wing sauce (I used Frank's Sweet BBQ)
1 packet ranch dressing mix
3 Tbsp. butter
Hamburger buns

Put the chicken, wing sauce, and ranch packet into the crock pot. Cook on low for 5-6 hours. Shred chicken with a fork. Add back to the crock pot, add the butter and stir. Let the flavors meld for an hour or two and then serve it up on hamburger buns.

These were so yummy! I do prefer the pulled BBQ chicken, but if you're in the mood for something a little spicy...this is definitely for you. I really don't see the point of the added butter, so next time I would skip that for sure.

WW points: 8 points/serving
6 servings
2 hamburger buns used = 8 points
Total meal: 16 points

Wednesday: Leftovers

Thursday: Bow Tie Lasagna

This meal came together very quickly which is perfect for us during the week. The sour cream in the sauce made it super creamy which was a nice treat, especially coming from two people who despise sour cream. I cut the serving size down a little so I could have more and the amount was perfect.

WW points: 11 points/serving
5 servings
Texas Toast: 5 points
Total Meal: 16 points

Friday: Leftovers

Saturday: Cookout!

We had a few of our friends over for a cookout and had such a lovely time. I really don't know why we don't do this more often. We're totally the couple (I mean family of three!) that goes to their friends' houses way more than we have people over. But I had such a lovely time being in my own home! Especially with Natalie. She had all of her toys right here, not to mention her crib when bedtime rolled around!

Here was the menu:

Appetizer: Mexican Cheese Ball with Tortilla Chips

When I say this dip was awesome, I am SO not joking. One of our friends lovingly referred to it as a mushed up taco. In a good way. If you can take it as that. It went perfectly with the tortilla chips...and the toasted pecans on the outside...to die for. I will say that the recipe said to form the cheese into a ball, roll it in the pecans, and put it in the fridge. Um, the cheese was definitely not rollable. At all. It was not firm and was very much more of a dip than a cheese ball. So I just sprinkled the pecans on top. Worked out just fine!

Main Dish: Smoked BBQ Ribs

Matt did the smoking so all I can say is oh.my.goodness.was.this.ever.outstanding. Enough said.

Side Dishes: Potato Casserole, Watermelon, Corn on the Cob

I didn't make the potato casserole but it was one of those casseroles that was creamy, potatoey goodness with corn flakes on top. Oh yeah.

Dessert: Pink Lemonade Cupcakes

I had such high hopes for these cupcakes...but they were just okay. They were extremely tart and just super sweet. I usually don't have a problem with this but even for me it was a little too much. Plus, the cake was pretty dense and dry. They looked super pretty though!

Notice I didn't include points for this day. Yeah. So did my ass.

Sunday: Leftovers

What We've Been Up To

2011-07-28T06:30:00.003-04:00

We had a play date earlier this week and Natalie got to enjoy her first dip in the pool since vacation. She LOVED it. She was splishing and splashing all over the place. The water was a little chilly but the girl didn't mind one bit. I think she was in there for an hour...and I only made her get out because I was bored...not her. I'm thinking next summer I definitely need to get my little swimmer a pool.

You may recall a certain little one learning how to sit up on her own recently? Here's some proof.

I just can't get over how much she looks like a big girl! And she's improving everyday.

We've put the bumpers in her crib now as she's become a rolling machine and keeps trying to reach for things outside her crib when she's on her belly. Plus, she was banging into the rails like crazy whilst scooting...so it was time. I think she's settled into her new little routine quite nicely!

We've been working on crawling here lately. Natalie's really great about getting up on her hands...and getting up on her knees...just not at the same time. I know with time she'll figure it all out. She's starting to get really frustrated when she can't get to where she wants to go though. Her new way to move is to get up on her knees, push her face into the floor, and basically flop forward. Not sure how she thought of that...but it works.

Girl is just the love of my life. I could kiss those little cheekies for hours.

WW Update!

2011-07-27T06:30:00.001-04:00

So...yeah. It's been a few weeks. You know what that means, right?

Me too.

We went on vacation and then for some reason I really had a hard time getting back into things when we got back. Perhaps it had something to do with the fact I was eating Twizzlers, fun size candy bars, and Starbursts for breakfast in Florida. Not sure.

But last week I finally got back on the horse. I got serious at the gym and stayed within my points everyday. So here's the update since I started...again, that was approximately 5 weeks after Natalie was born.

Weight loss since last reported: 5.5 lbs.
Total weight loss: 31 lbs.

Also, something exciting comes with this new weigh in. I have finally reentered the world of ONE-derland! Now, at first this was not something I was all psyched up to share. Seeing as saying you have entered into one-derland is admitting that at one time you were actually in the TWOs. Which no one wants to say. But there you have it. I was there. Granted, I was there because I was pregnant...but I was still in it for 6 months after my sweetie was born so I can't blame her for everything now can I.

Truth is, I've been there before. I lost 75 lbs. before I got married and I vowed I would never be that heavy again. I wanted to make sure I was at a healthy weight before I got pregnant so I would never have to see those numbers again. Unfortunately, it didn't quite work out that way. I gained some weight back during the first few years of our marriage (who doesn't?)...not nearly as much as I lost...but enough that when I got pregnant I knew I was going to see those dreaded numbers again. It was frightening to see the weight come on as quickly as it did. I found it incredibly easy to lose myself in pregnancy and not worry about what I was eating. That is a mistake I will not make again.

I made a vow to Matt that I would not harass him about having another child until I reached my goal weight. I have a long way to go but I feel like I'm in the groove. I'm gonna do it. I've done it before...and I can do it again. And then the next time I get pregnant I won't have to lose the baby weight + all the extra fluff! And there's motivation in another squishy little newborn :)

So how are y'all doing?

Guess Who's 6 Months Old!?!

2011-07-26T06:30:00.000-04:00

My darling girl,

You are six whole months old. I cannot believe it has been half a year since your Daddy and I were in the hospital meeting you for the first time. Some days it seems like you've always been here...and others it seems like you just got here yesterday.

You are wearing size 3 diapers and mostly 6-9 month clothing. The 6 month onesies are definitely on their last leg I'm afraid. You're just so long! Mommy also had to move your jumperoo up to the last setting because you had some sort of growth spurt. I cannot believe you are almost out of that thing.

According to the doctor, you weigh in around 18 1/2 lbs. (95%) and are 27 3/4 inches long (97%). Such a big girl! She warned us people would think you were older and wonder why you weren't walking yet. Ha! She also thinks you are very close to getting your first pair of pearly whites. Eek!!

You are still nursing and have yet to have a sip of formula. I am so thankful everyday that I've been able to successfully breastfeed you for 6 months. In fact, I'm a little sad thinking of the day when I have to give up our special time together. You're not much of a snuggle bug these days so I have come to cherish our feeding sessions. But it will be nice to have my boobies back. You're kind of a hog.

This month has definitely been your busiest to date. Here are just a few highlights:

At the beginning of the month we started putting you in bed without being swaddled. You were constantly busting free in the middle of the night and Mommy was entirely too sick of waking up and reswaddling you. It was time. And you transitioned beautifully.

You took your first trip to the park with your friends Braden, William, and Olivia. You and Olivia chillaxed on the blanket and watched the boys play. I'm pretty sure you loved it. You also ventured to the zoo for the first time with miss Kennedy. You didn't seem really into it, but you did take a good nap. Ha!

For the most part, you are still only napping your in car seat or stroller during the day. I have managed to get you to sleep in your crib one magical day (after about 5 minutes of fussing) so I'm hoping we can transition to this full time. You are dangerously close to outgrowing your infant carrier so I know my days of moving you from sleeping in the car to the swing are drawing to a close. Insert tear.

You're still a fabulous sleeper at night. We put you down around 7 and you have been getting up around 6:30 or 7. I can sometimes get you to go right back down for a little bit after you eat...but I fear that is becoming a rarity. Unfortunately, you still scream bloody murder when Mommy isn't here to put you to bed. Several times Daddy has had to put you down without eating because you simply refuse to take a bottle. But only at night. During the day you will eat from it no problem if you have to. Seriously girl...mess with your routine and you are a TERROR.

You started solid foods this month! You look like such a big girl sitting in your high chair. We began with rice cereal and you took to it very well. You are currently working on a box of oatmeal and are LOVING it! You are eating twice a day, approximately 3 Tbsp. per sitting.

Your grandparents visited you this month. They are so in love with you sweet girl. I just know you are going to be spoiled rotten when you're older. Oh wait. You already are. They carry you around everywhere and your Grandmer makes you anything and everything you could possibly need. You are a very lucky girl.

You have discovered your feet this month and are constantly pulling on them and trying to put them in your mouth. It's fairly entertaining for both of us.

Also this month, you went on your very first vacation with Mommy's side of the family. We all flew down to Panama City Beach and stayed in a condo with Grandma, Grandpa, Aunt Jessi, and Uncle Dave. You had a BLAST at the pool! You kicked around just like a little fishy in there. You weren't such a fan of the ocean but neither is Mommy so it worked out just fine.

Once we got back from vacation, you started rolling over like crazy! You looked like you'd been doing it forever. I'm not sure what got into you! You roll from your back to your tummy all the time. It's become a little bit of an issue as you have started doing it in your crib at night and then get very upset because you can't get back. Mama is not a fan.

You also started sitting up all on your own! We've been practicing for a while now and then all of a sudden you just lifted your little arms up and were sitting! You had this look on your face like, "Hey Mom. Check me out!" You knew it was cool.

Sweet girl, your Daddy and I love you more every single day. You have completed our little family in so many ways and we cannot imagine one single second without you here. You truly are such a good baby and we are very, very lucky. You have blessed our lives simply by being you. And you always will.

Love you to the moon and back Natty Poo,

Mama

Menu Monday

2011-07-25T06:30:00.002-04:00

When a person, AKA me, decides to start posting menus, it's usually on a day when you make a really fantastic meal and can't wait to share so all of your bloggy friends think you are just such a fabulous cook and they can't believe you don't have your own show on Food Network. Right?

Well, the truth is...some weeks are just full of pre-packaged meals and making whatever the heck you can find from something hidden in the bottom of the deep freezer. That, my friends, was last week. We went grocery shopping after church on Sunday without making a list (which I despise) so this is what happened. Note to self: never do that again.

Monday: Frozen Pizza

source

Yep. Keeping it real here, peeps. Doesn't get much easier than this. We actually ate it standing up as Natalie was having a rough night and Matt was walking her around in the Baby Bjorn just trying to get her to GO TO SLEEP!! As an aside...that didn't work. But the pizza was pretty good. I prefer a good pepperoni and sausage myself...but this was alright.

WW points: 15 points/4 slices (1/2 pizza)

Tuesday: Pulled Pork Sandwiches

Did you really think this was going to be homemade? Nope. Not this week. I microwaved it for like 4 minutes and then ate it. Unfortunately, you could tell. It was just okay. Not sure I would ever buy it again. But really, it took 4 minutes.

WW points: 13 points/serving
2 Servings
Hamburger Buns: 4 points/bun
2 buns
Total Meal: 21 points

Wednesday: Taco Stuffers

source

We had a coupon for this stuff. For a few weeks we couldn't find it in the grocery store because we were looking in the refrigerated and frozen food section. You know, because it has meat in it. Um, we found it with the Mexican food. Not refrigerated. Both Matt and I were seriously weirded out by this, but we'll try anything if it's $1 off.

Talk about easy...microwave the pouch for 60 seconds and you're done. We put it in tortillas and topped it with Mexican cheese. I thought it was kinda mushy. All the ingredients seemed to meld together and the texture was a little strange. It tasted fine...but I definitely would not buy this again unless the coupon was perhaps $3 off.

WW points: 6 points/servings
2 Servings
Tortillas: 3 points/tortilla
2 tortillas
1/3 cup Mexican cheese = 3 points
Total Meal: 15 points

Thursday: Ravioli

source

This was the "reach into the deeper freezer with your eyes closed and make what comes out" day. I had some leftover frozen ravioli that I cooked...added some spaghetti sauce...and presto! Meal! We also had some Texas toast as a side. I figure a day when I use the stove AND the oven constitutes a legit meal, yes?

WW points: 13 points for 1/2 leftover ravioli and 1 cup sauce
Texas Toast: 4 points
Total Meal: 17 points

Friday: Hamburgers with Potato Wedges

source

WW points: 6 points/5 oz. lean ground beef burger
Hamburger Bun: 4 points
3 oz. Potato Wedges: 3 points
Total Meal: 13 points

Saturday: Grilled Steak w/ Grilled Corn on the Cob

Finally! A real meal! Matt bought some ribeye last time we were at the store so we grilled it up with the corn and it was AWESOME! In fact when we finished, I suggested we begin eating exclusively steak. Apparently, according to my husband, we do not have a money tree growing in our yard so I was shut down. Story of my life.

WW points: 9 points/8 oz. of steak; 2 points/one medium corn on the cob
Total Meal: 11 points
I used spray butter on my corn so as to not add any additional points. We did marinate the steak in a teriyaki marinade beforehand but I've learned the meat never really soaks up enough of the marinade to add any points to a meal.

Sunday: Sweet and Sour Chicken w/ Brown Rice

This meal was pretty good. 10 minutes on the stove top and it's done. But, it does NOT serve 3. 2...maybe. I was pretty much still starving after my measly little serving. I had to finish off the meal with a bowl full of strawberries just to get through the night.

WW points: 9 points/serving
3 servings
Brown Rice: 4 points/serving
Total Meal: 13 points

Now, please come back next week when I cross my heart to make you actual meals that include recipes. PROMISE!

My Baby Girl is Growing Up!

2011-07-21T11:21:00.000-04:00

I had Natalie's 6 month pictures taken yesterday at the house. It took me a long time to decide if I should get a photographer for her pictures...I mean a LONG time. Picture me, 5 months ago, nursing Natalie at some ungodly hour, agonizing back and forth about this issue. I know. I have problems. And then came which photographer to get. That was a whole other set of worries. On a recommendation from a friend, I finally decided on Matthew Connors and he was fabulous! It was so relaxed and easy and I could not have been happier with the experience. He sent me a sneak peak this morning and I couldn't wait to share! I simply cannot wait to see the final pictures!!

Baby Thanksgiving

2011-07-19T06:30:00.001-04:00

On Sunday, our sweet little girl participated in a Baby Thanksgiving at our church. We got to go on stage and the whole congregation prayed for her and for us. It was a really awesome experience and I'm so glad we were able to do it. Natalie usually stays in the nursery so it was her first time in the auditorium. I loved getting to hold her and sing our worship songs at the same time.

Per our usual routine, we headed to the grocery store after church. The Super Walmart across the street is fantastic. Don't you think Walmarts can be hit or miss? I mean, some are super trashy and others are really clean and nice. This one = awesome. As you may remember, our church is a good 45 minutes from our house so we use this opportunity to hit up the store while we're out there.

While we were shopping, a woman approached us and told us she saw us at church! It was so weird...and I told Matt when she left I kind of felt like a celebrity. Ha! But it also made me think. I've now stood up in front of probably a thousand people in our church. A church where it is easy to get lost in the crowd. But now, perhaps people will recognize our family. Know us as those people who have that really cute little girl in the polka dot dress and pink headband. But hopefully know us more as those parents who are raising their child in the church. And just knowing that makes me feel like I'm being held accountable. Which I desperately need and for which I am so thankful.

Menu Monday

2011-07-18T06:30:00.002-04:00

Monday: Spicy Tangerine Beef with Brown Rice

I'm not sure I can still call this recipe by it's original name since I actually used an orange instead of a tangerine. Can you believe the grocery store didn't have one? I thought that was weird. Anyways, this recipe was super delicious. And really easy to make. It says it serves 4-6 which I find to be a total lie. I would say 3 at the most. Matt and I each ate a fourth of it on Monday and we both commented that there could've been more meat with the amount of rice we made. (But honestly, when could you ever NOT say, "I could use a little bit more meat."?)

WW Points: 9 points/servings
Servings: 4

I also made these Sea Salted Caramels to take over to our neighbors for watering our plants when we were out of town. The recipe was incredibly easy...make some caramel, put it in a pan, let cool, melt some chocolate, pour it over the layer of caramel, good to go. Um, no. When I went to cut the caramels into pieces my chocolate layer completely separated from my caramel layer. AND the caramel layer was impossible to cut. It got so hard. Like the only way I was going to be able to break it into pieces was to throw it on the ground. Needless to say I did not end up taking these over to our neighbors. I did, however, eat the chocolate layer myself and send the huge block of caramel with Matt to work. Dessert = Fail.

Tuesday: Leftovers

(I finished these up myself as Matt was gone so I ate two servings of beef with one serving of rice and it was perfect)

Wednesday:

Matt got home late again and he was supposed to pick up some booze as an ingredient for the recipe I was going to make...so I pushed it back until Thursday. I ended up eating nachos. And ice cream. Yep. Not so great of a WW day for Jenny.

Thursday: Bubba's Creamy Spicy Seafood Pasta

1. This recipe says it serves 4. Um, no. It serves at least 6. Probably more like 8.
2. There is so not enough seafood in this dish for the amount of pasta. If I were to make this again, I would definitely scale down the pasta to at least 12 oz. instead of a pound.
3. Despite the above issues, it was really tasty! The sauce had a real kick to it. I just wish it had more seafood.

WW Points: 14 points/servings
Servings: 6

Friday: Menu Planning Fail

We were invited to a last minute cook out so we brought over hamburgers, hot dogs, and ears of corn. Not a bad WW day, but it's always hard to calculate points when you're at someone else's house. I mean, who really has the balls to say, "Hey, before you put that hamburger on the grill, could you please weigh that? And could you get lite buns?" Not me.

Saturday: Cook Out...Again!

This one was actually planned. Our neighbors invited us over. Turns our neighbor is BFF with a guy Matt went to law school with in Virginia. Totally random, right? So he was coming up for a visit and we stopped over to say hey.

I provided the Oreo Truffles and S'more Cookie Bars. As always, the truffles were the hit of the party. For something so incredibly easy to make, these things really get attention. I get kind of sick of making them for everything though and I'm always looking to try something new. Enter cookie bars. They were AWESOME. I do think they needed more chocolate so I will definitely add another candy bar if I make then again. Seriously yum! They were, however, 7 points/bar. With 16 servings. Not so fab...but doable for one day. Unfortunately, there are still some in my house.

Sunday: Leftovers

Sorry for the lack of recipes this week friends. But we all have those crazy weeks where nothing seems to go as planned, right?

Happy Half Birthday Natalie!

2011-07-15T06:30:00.001-04:00

Today my little booger turns 6 months old. She's been with us for half a year. I just cannot believe it. 6 whole months. I'm going to wait to do her official 6 month post until next week so I can get her stats (Natalie = giant...that's all you need to know) but I took some pics of her yesterday because I thought she looked extra cute that I'll share...because, you know, I can.

She's just so gorgeous. I love her to pieces!

And guess what she learned to do??

She's sitting up all by herself. She can only do it for a short time but she gets so excited when she lifts her little arms up and balances on her own. I'm so proud of her! She's growing and learning so much so fast. I'm desperately trying to soak in every second with her before she grows up and thinks I'm completely uncool and won't even give me a hug. Oh please don't let that day ever come!

PCB 2011, Baby!

2011-07-12T08:58:00.000-04:00

On the 3rd of July, we left bright and early in the morning for Panama City Beach! My whole family is big into road tripping. Me. Not so much. I think the idea of it sounds really fun. But once I'm in the car for more than an hour I'm completely bored. Luckily, Matt feels the same way. So flying it was.

Enter Natalie's first flight.

She did so great! I decided to bring the boppy with me on the plane and it was the best decision I ever made. It gave me a comfortable place to feed her and then she was able to fall asleep! Girl slept almost the whole time on all the flights. Passengers even complimented us! Like we did anything...but it was nice to hear :)

Once we got settled in the condo, we headed downstairs for Natalie's first swim! However, the girl was so pooped from her early morning flight that she fell asleep on the way down to the pool. Ha! I let her hang out with Grandma in the stroller and I got some much needed pool time with my sister and her hubs.

But once she woke up, girl was ready to play!

She had so much fun! The floatie we bought for her worked so well. Until she discovered she could put her face down in it and suck up water. Yeah. That was awesome. I finally decided to bring Sophie the Giraffe down to the pool with us so Natalie would be distracted with her and it worked. Sophie, however, will never again squeak the same. Ha!

We spent the rest of the vacation transitioning between the pool and the beach. Natalie was not much of a beach fan, especially when Mama accidentally let a wave hit her. Plus, the sand got EVERYWHERE! We had to immediately hose Natalie off in the sink when we got back. I don't think there was a spot on her body that wasn't covered in sand.

On the 4th, we watched fireworks from our balcony. They shot them off from the pier and we had the best seat in the house. And most importantly, Natalie didn't wake up at all! We also celebrated with this yummy trifle my dad made.

I'm so grateful Natalie got to spend so much time with her family on this trip. It's rare all of us get together, especially uninterrupted for a week so this trip was priceless.

Plus, my sister got to experience Sonic for the first time! We were happy to take her there. Twice. Maybe once right after we had Chick-fil-A. Hey. No judgies. What are vacations for?

And yes, Matt did come. I just realized he really wasn't in any pictures. Ha! He's not much of a beach vacation person. He spent most of his time in the condo playing Monopoly on his iPad. But as long as he wasn't working, he was happy as a clam.

Natalie took fantastic naps in her stroller by the pool everyday which allowed me some time to visit with my family and enjoy the weather myself. She slept great in her pack 'n play and was just such a good little baby the whole time. I will say, Matt and I were not fans of sharing a room with our little booger. She's a loud sleeper and kept us up quite a bit. And the early morning wake up calls weren't so much fun either. But overall, she did a fabulous job during her very first vacation. We can't wait to do it again!

Oh, did I forget to mention I chopped all my hair off??

Menu Monday...Vacation Style

2011-07-11T08:23:00.000-04:00

Not so much of a menu for last week. And don't even ask me about WW points. We were in Panama City Beach on vacation so if you'd like photos of Twizzlers, Skittles, or cupcakes for dinner...I could share those??

Wait. You don't eat like that on vacation? Just me?

Sunday my BIL made homemade ravioli which was quite delicious. We had a night of burritos on Monday and then my dad made his famous homemade lasagna on Tuesday. I posted the recipe for it quite a while ago but I can't seem to find it now. It will definitely have to be shared. No other lasagna compares in my book. Wednesday evening everyone went out to a late dinner whilst Matt and I stayed home with a sleeping Natty Poo. My sister did bring me some fish and chips home which was incredibly tasty. My mom stayed home with Natalie on Thursday so us kiddos could go out to dinner. I had chicken and sausage jambalaya. Seriously yum. It was my (Matt's) turn to cook on Friday and we made Cheesy BBQ Sloppy Joes. Anything with Texas toast in it is a winner for me and this did not disappoint.

I'll definitely be back to posting legit recipes next week. Lord knows my thighs need it...

Menu Monday with a Twist!

2011-07-04T06:30:00.003-04:00

Monday: Leftovers from the weekend

Don't you just love a Monday of leftovers? For some reason, I really dislike cooking on Mondays. Perhaps I'm just not ready for the week to begin? Not sure. But the potato soup and pulled chicken from the weekend sure did hit the spot.

Tuesday: Chicken Croquettes with Creole Sauce

This recipe is from Paula Deen. Enough said, yes? I thought it was super yummy. It was basically a crab cake using chicken instead of crab. Matt didn't eat any of the sauce that I made with it as it was mostly mayo and sour cream of which he is not a fan. He chose to use BBQ sauce. Personally, I thought the sauce was perfect with the meal.

Notes:
I made 12 croquettes instead of 10 and thought they were plenty big
I used green pepper instead of red as we had some leftover...I also left out the onion because I thought we had some and then I couldn't find it (aka: what happens when your husband cooks a night)
4 servings (3 croquettes each) with 1/4 of sauce
15 points/serving

Wednesday: Leftovers

Thursday: Baked Shells with Pesto, Mozzarella, and Meat Sauce

Pesto? Mozzarella? Meat? Who could go wrong, right? Although I thought this dish was really yummy, I think the pesto was completely hidden within the tomato sauce. Which is sad because I could basically eat pesto right out of the jar. It's one of my favorite things and to put it in a dish and not be able to tell is a complete travesty in my book. Plus, it is a hellified amount of points due to the oil so I felt like it was a complete waste.

But other than that, it was quite delicious. And got two thumbs up from the hubs which is always a plus.

Notes:
I left out the onion because, again, we ran out. Since I didn't need to cook the onion, I also left out the oil.
I changed the recipe to 5 servings instead of 4 because I wanted to have a piece of Texas Toast with my meal. Upon further investigation, the servings could be dialed up to at least 6. I mean, the meal completely filled up a 9 X 13 pan. It was a lot of pasta.
5 servings
17 points/serving

Friday: Leftovers

Saturday: Find Your Own

Do you ever have days like this at your house? A day where you don't have anything to cook or don't have any time to cook and you just say, "Honey...have whatever you can find?" My mom used to do this and she called it "find your own." So that's what we're doing tonight. We're leaving on vacation in the morning so I want no leftovers in the house. Enter "find your own."

Sunday: WE'RE LEAVING FOR FLORIDA!

Enjoy your Fourth of July friends!

Leaving On a Jetplane...With an Infant...HELP!

2011-07-01T06:30:00.001-04:00

This Sunday, my little family of three will be boarding an airplane headed to the gorgeous state of Florida. We are meeting my parents, my sister, and her husband for a long over due vacation. While I'm super excited about this trip, I can't help but be a tad nervous about flying with our sweet girl.

The sheer volume of crap she requires on a daily basis is overwhelming. The girl's list surpasses mine. Luckily, I was able to take advantage of my in laws being up here last weekend and I sent some things home with them to give to my parents who offered to bring them down for us. They're driving. So is my sister. Matt and I? We fly. We are not road trip people. Especially with our sweet new addition.

We've decided to just hold her on the flight as she is not a huge fan of just chilling in her car seat. This way I'll be able to easily feed her on board as well as pass her off to Matt if need be. Unfortunately, we don't have a direct flight so we're looking at about a 2 hour flight followed by another hour.

Have any of y'all traveled with small children? Do you have any tips for this mama? We're going to check her car seat at baggage claim but keep her stroller with us so we'll have somewhere to put her. We're also thinking of bringing her Baby Bjorn with us as it's pretty much her favorite place to be. I'm more worried about her on the plane, though. Feeding her will only last so long and the girl gets restless! Plus, her talking is more like 'screaming.' We are so going to be those parents... Good thing she's so cute. Perhaps people will give us a pass?

But you know what? It's just one morning. We'll be there by 10:30 a.m., head to the pool, and all of my worries will fade away.

Until 6 days later when we have to do it all over again :)

Hope everyone has a fabulous Fourth of July!! Loves!

Our Very First Canvas + Discount!

2011-06-30T06:30:00.001-04:00

A long, long time ago, sweet Melissa from Easy Canvas Prints offered to send me one of their canvases. I jumped at the chance seeing as I have been wanting to print several canvases and was anxious to see how their product turned out compared to others I have been investigating.

I decided to print out one of our wedding pictures for the mantle. It may or may not be the only wedding picture I have yet to print. Perhaps we were married almost 4 years ago. Hm. Should probably get on that one. Plus, I wanted to wait to print one of Natalie on a bigger size.

Anyways, the order arrived in just a few days and I was so pleased! It turned out just beautifully and fits perfectly with our current decor. Also, it was packaged very securely to prevent anything happening to it during the shipping process. I would definitely recommend using them for your future canvas needs.

I chose the Gallery Wrap option and I really love the professional look of the piece.

Plus, as a bonus, if you "like" them on Facebook, they will give you 50% off plus free shipping on your first order! How cool is that? Definitely worth checking out!

*Easy Canvas Prints sent me one free 8X10 canvas in exchange for a link on my side bar.

Weekly Weight Watcher Update

2011-06-29T06:30:00.001-04:00

Weight Loss = +0.5 lbs.
Total Loss = 26.5 lbs.

I had a really great week this week workout wise. I went to spinning Monday and Wednesday and strength classes Tuesday and Thursday. My in laws were in town and I had planned out meals accordingly and was sticking to everything.

Until Sunday.

Sunday involved going out to lunch for bacon cheeseburgers. Then Matt's parents offered to stay home with Natalie so Matt and I could go out to dinner. Enter paninis. So explains my downfall this week.

I'm looking for a great week this week because we head to Florida on Sunday and I'd like to leave on a good note. And come home on a good note as well. But I'm not kidding myself so we'll see how it goes. Traveling is always a food disaster for me. Wish me luck!