Random picture for you. Sometimes my “excited eyes” become my creepy eyes. Yikes. Good thing my girl is SO CUTE.

As I sit, my two miracles are napping, I just took a shower, cleaned two bathrooms and sat down to write something wonderful for you, my sweet friends.

But, as I have suspected for awhile now, my brain is only firing on half cylinders. I have stared at this screen for five minutes without one original thought. And then I remembered a friend of mine once told me that after she had kids (she has 4), she lost some intellect and gained strengths in organization, multi-tasking, cooking, etc. At the time I thought she was nuts…but now, has this happened to me?

I can cook dinner with a baby on my hip with no problem, but for the life of me I cannot spell.

I can fold and put away laundry all while dancing like a champ to the Hokey Pokey, but I can’t remember the words to the Star Spangled Banner (could I ever?).

I am teaching my 22 month old how to count to 20, but I can barely remember how to do long division.

Am I alone here? Perhaps it’s exhaustion or forgetfulness. Maybe my brain will snap back.

All I know is when I look at this screen, my ideas take a nap and I’m left to wonder what kind of mush my brain will become with a couple more kiddos.

This picture has nothing to do with the post. Just a little eye candy for you.

In the land of mommy’s and daddy’s everywhere there are lots of questions that arise in the pursuit of raising tiny humans. Like, LOTS of questions.

While my experience is limited, having 2 babies under 2 hardly makes me an expert, I still have to make daily decisions for my family that are sometimes hard.

That said, let me preface this post by saying that these decisions are best for our family. Never in a million, bazillion years would I try to impose these decisions on other people. Because, well, they’re your babies, not mine.

Here are a few examples of daily decisions that come up:

1. Should we allow pacifiers? Yes, Yes, Yes. I love a good paci. We stuck a paci in Brothers mouth when he was only a few hours old. He has never had any issues with nursing because of it. I am a believer. Bitzy will sometimes still use one at naps and bedtime, but she has never been attached to it really, so I see no need to take it away at this point.

2. TV. I admit that I am psychotic about how many “shows” (as Bitzy calls them) she watches. I want TV to be a treat, not the norm. The TV is never just on. It’s only on while she is watching a show. Most days she watches 1 or 2 25 minute shows and I’m okay with that. I admit that sometimes that 25 minutes is a lifesaver. I can feed, change, snuggle Brother, unload the dishwasher, make breakfast…you get the idea. But again, that decision is one that our family has made. Sometimes it would be much more convenient to turn it on and let her watch endlessly, but we really want to encourage active playtime rather than TV.

3. Food. Again, I’m psycho, I do admit.  But honestly, I think my psychosis has paid off. Bitzy is a VERY healthy eater. As an infant I made all of her baby food and only offered healthy organic choices. Her favorites foods are cucumbers, apples, blueberries, peaches, oranges, peas and turkey bacon. She didn’t have sugar until her 1st birthday and didn’t again until she was 18 months. We don’t give her juice, only milk and water. She doesn’t ask for sugary treats, she asks for apples and tomatoes. It’s awesome.

Those are just a few examples of things that we have faced as new parents and continue to enforce on a daily basis. Another decision that we have made as a family is for me to continue nursing both Bitzy and Brother. The technical term is tandem nursing.

If you’ll remember I thought about weaning around 20 weeks into my pregnancy with Brother and it just didn’t happen (Read it Here). Bitzy simply wasn’t ready and honestly, neither was I.

I wish I could tell you that I did mega research on the benefits of nursing a toddler and memorized all the stats and was a card carrying member of the Le Leche league, but friends, I didn’t do any of that.

I simply went with my gut.

My gut said that my sweetheart wasn’t ready to wean and boy am I glad that I listened.

Nursing them both has made the transition from one baby to two so much easier. It’s as if Bitzy knows that her and Brother are on the same team. They have equal footing. She hasn’t showed any signs of jealousy or aggression toward him at all and I can’t help but think that nursing them both has played a part.

While I am proud to say that I nurse them both I realize that it’s not for everyone. It’s a personal choice.

Just like it’s my choice to not breastfeed in public. I have never been comfortable with nursing cover-ups and I personally do not feel comfortable pulling my shirt down in public to feed so I leave the room and feed them privately. I am not ashamed, I just feel more comfortable in private.

Sidetrack: One day in Target I met a gal with 3 little boys, ages 5, 3 and 10 months. She had the infant in a baby carrier and he was crying as we chatted. To try to appease him she pulled out her breast and began feeding him. For her, it was perfectly normal and acceptable. For me, it was uncomfortable, I’m not gonna lie. But ya know what?  To each his own. Feed in public, feed in private- whatever dudes.

I guess the reason that I am writing this is to enforce that the quote “To each his own” is especially true in parenting. There are so many strong opinions about this that and the other and I just don’t understand why people get so bent out of shape. We’re all just doing the best we can, no?

Sure, if you see a child being abused it’s your responsibility to speak up, but otherwise I think it’s wise to remember that “if you can’t say something nice, don’t say it at all.” I am forever amazed at how people feel so strongly about the craziest things that do not effect them in any way and use harsh words to express their opinion.

Aren’t we all in this together friends? Raising babies is tough and we need to support and love each other, right? Can I get an AMEN?!

Thoughts? Comments?

Lately, my hair is a wreck. I can’t even remember the last time it was cut. It’s big and poofy and I am sorry to admit that it’s in a pony tail 99% of the time. But guess what? The babies don’t care about my silly hair.

Lately, I only wear yoga pants and spit up stained shirts, and I look like a hot mess constantly.  But guess what? The babies don’t care about my clothes.

Lately, I am exhausted. Turns out that being up several times a night with a newborn and playing like a crazy woman all day with a toddler is tiring. But guess what? The babies don’t care how tired I am.

Lately, my housekeeping isn’t quite what it once was. Sure, the house is still clean and tidy, but it’s far from spotless. There are clothes that are currently in the dryer that need to be folded and put away, and the rugs could really use a good vacuuming. But guess what? The babies don’t care about how clean this house is.

Lately, I find myself desperate to relish this precious time with my babies and soak up every second. I want to play and teach and hug and kiss and cuddle and sing and dance and laugh and LOVE. And Guess what? That’s what my babies need the most.

I’m gonna go ahead and warn you, I’m full of all sorts of post-partum lovey dovey hormones, so if you aren’t in the mood for a lovefest then I suggest that you stop reading here…

Because friends, I gotta tell you, I’m in love, I mean IN LOVE, with my “station” in life at this very moment.

There is truly not a day that goes by that Zach and I don’t talk about how blessed we are to live this life. How absolutely incredible our Bitzy is. How miraculous it is to have a new tiny human, Brother, that has entered our family and has integrated so easily. How beautiful it is to watch our babies grow each day, learning and experiencing new things.

This life, it’s a miracle.

A beautifully blessed miracle.

Today while Brother was taking one of his epic 3 hour naps (amazing I tell you), Bitzy and I were playing in her room after she woke up from her nap (yes, they were both sleeping at the same time, thank you Jesus). Before I put her down for her nap we read the Golden Book version of Alice in Wonderland. After her nap she wanted to read “ABBIT, ALICE, AGHEEN,” translation: Rabbit, Alice, Again. So we read it again and then she hopped off my lap and started looking under the ottoman and saying “ABBIT, HOLE, TEA, COOKIE, HAT, ALICE!” At first I couldn’t figure out what in the world she was doing, then when I got in the floor to look  under the ottoman to see what the world she was babbling about, it dawned on me. She was playing pretend that Alice and the White Rabbit had a hole under the ottoman in her room where they went to the tea party with the Madhatter.

SERIOUSLY? My 19 month old is in an imaginary world and is allowing me to be a part of it. Have I ever had more fun in my entire life you ask? Nope. Never. We played Alice in Wonderland in her room for a solid hour, just me and my girl. How in the world am I so lucky to live this life?

And my baby? My tiny little precious baby boy is 4 (whole) weeks old. He’s always hungry and growing like crazy, and he’s healthy. Amazingly, beautiful, miraculously healthy. This fact is not lost on me. I think of all the sweet people that spend their days in the NICU with their littles and how incredible it is that I had a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. It honestly brings tears to my eyes that he is so beautifully healthy.

I’m not gonna lie, the past 4 weeks of having a newborn with a young toddler hasn’t all been easy and sunshiny. There have been moments where both the babies were screaming, I’m carrying them both up the stairs while the phone is ringing and someone is at the door and I am about to hyperventilate from the stress of it, but for the most part, it’s been a beautiful transition. We are continuing to grow and figure out what works and what doesn’t, but all in all, we’re enjoying one big lovefest up in here.

(This would also be a good time to give a shout out to my amazing husband, my partner and my love: without you, this family wouldn’t work at all. You are the cheese to all of our macaroni.)

I’m still not sure why and how I get to live this life, but boy am I thankful.

What are you thankful for today?

I have heard many photographers say that they experience life through a camera lens. It’s a cool thought I suppose, but clearly, I am no photographer… (even though the camera is attached to me at all times). Ya see, I am obsessed with soaking in every single moment of this beautiful life. I not only want to experience it, but capture it…to freeze it in time.

As I look at these pictures my cup truly runs over. What  an amazing life God has blessed me with.  It fills me with an urgency to encourage your hearts to truly LIVE today. To soak it up, to breathe in the people around you and to ENJOY life.

I admit, life isn’t fair. Sometimes it seems there is much more bad news than good, and it feels like there aren’t too many beautiful moments to savor…but oh there are. Ya just gotta look…

Do you even remember being so filled with joy? Being completely free to run, dance and to be free? If not, Bitzy will teach you.

When was the last time that you played so hard that you had to change clothes 3 times in one day?  And finally you just said “forget it” and accepted the dirt on your pants as a badge…can’t remember? Bitzy’s got some experience.

Do you recall ever being completely and utterly infatuated with mud? I mean, it is kinda cool if you think about it. It’s all slippery and slimy! No? Spend a mud filled afternoon with Bitzy and she’ll reacquaint you.

Have you held someone in your arms so tight lately that through your laughter and smiles you simply breathe them in and beg God to freeze that moment in time, because you know that in the blink of an eye the moment will be gone, never to come again.  No? Do it. You will never regret savoring precious moments. If you need help, I’m your girl. My soul bursts will treasures that are buried deep in my heart.

There are moments to be celebrated sweet friends, even in the midst of heartache.

Find them, and celebrate.

Remember all the talk about me moving…ahem, or perhaps all the whining.

It’s true. I hate moving with a hate that will never die.

But now, we’re all moved in and the drama has ceased. I guess you could say that we’re finally settled.

We painted every room in the house (except the Master Bath) and did tons of cosmetic/decorating work. Fortunately, there wasn’t a ton of mechanical issues with the house so we got to skip all of that!

We also have an unfinished basement that is already plumbed and framed and we’re hoping to finish it this winter…but that’s a whole ‘nother Oprah.

Anyhow, we feel so incredibly blessed to live in this house and still are in awe that God has blessed us so lavishly.

(I don’t know why we continue to be surprised by God’s extravagant blessings…He is our Father and Provider after all).

For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future. Then you will call upon me and come and pray to me, and I will listen to you.  You will seek me and find me when you seek me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:11-13

We had our old house on the market off and on for nearly 2 years and it simply wasn’t the right time. So many nights Zach and I would lie in bed in utter confusion that God wouldn’t let us move.  We felt that we were “doing all the right” things, but still, God continued to say “NO!” Don’t get me wrong, we had a great townhouse that was sufficient and certainly provided a roof over our heads…but we really wanted a house with a yard.

Now, in hindsight we see that God had gone before and prepared the way to give His best…and He has.  We are so, so, so blessed.

Anyway, many of you have asked for pictures…so here they are!!!!

Welcome to our home!

Master Bedroom! This room is at least twice as big as our old bedroom. We LOVE IT.

Master Bath. Isn’t it amazing? It’s heavenly.

Our Kitchen. At our old house we literally had 5 cabinets. It was a wreck. Look at all this space! It’s dreamy!

Downstairs Half Bath.  This bath is right beside the living room and kitchen. Very convenient for this preggers lady.

Great Room. We love this room! We have tons of seating for friends and family…but mostly I love the color!

Guest Room. This room is dedicated to my home people in NC. It reminds me of home.

Upstairs Bathroom. In our old house we only had 1 full bath so having guests made life a bit crowded. It’s so wonderful to have 2!!!!

Sweet New Baby Boys Nursery! It’s finally finished! Yay!!!

My sweet Bitzy’s room! We kept her room almost identical to our other house so that she didn’t get freaked out/confused. Lord knows that we don’t need any more sleep issues!!!

Bitzy’s Closet/Playroom. Can you believe this closet? What a dream!!! She’ll really love it when she’s 16!

And now my favorite room in the house!!! Our dining room! This room has been a labor of love!!!

I am not a dancer.

I know, I know, you’re shocked.

The good Lord has graciously given me many gifts, however, coordination/grace were not on the docket of blessings for me.

However, my beautiful girl can break it down.

Isn’t she the cutest thing EVER?!

She slays me…watch.

I mean, seriously?

How did I ever get so lucky?

Maternity pictures are a funny thing. They document the miracle of pregnancy, however, they also capture the hugeness of a person during her final and most unfortunate looking days of pregnancy…the “they” that I’m speaking of is “me.”

I’ve seen the “sexy” maternity photos where the mama is practically naked with wind blowing through her hair, she looks glorious and glowing and bursting with life.

You see friends, I have come to a conclusion about pregnancy. Are you ready? It’s really profound. Get ready.

There are some people (not me) that look amazing while pregnant. They look better, feel better and seem to GLOW. Then, there are people in my category. We are tired, look awful and rather than glowing it’s more akin to sweaty.

I’m not complaining though. I do not take the absolute miracle and gift of pregnancy for granted for one single second. I know plenty of people who would love to feel the pains of pregnancy. So, that said, I have accepted the fact that I get massively huge during pregnancy.

Truth hurts people. Again, not complaining. Just gearing up for my next round of WW in a few months.

Anywho, back to maternity pics.

Perhaps I should have had them taken when I was around 5 or 6 months before every surface of my body decided to celebrate pregnancy by expanding…but alas I did not.

At least I can show these pictures to my darling children and remind them of how I completely forfeited my body in order to grant them life…I can see a future guilt trip coming on. I gotta put these things in my back pocket for them they are teenagers and I have to prepare all the ammunition possible.

While I don’t love the way I look, I do love my amazing family…this picture makes me smile.

Hopefully it’ll make you smile too.

Me to Zach: “I really need to write a blog, but I’m just so tired. I can’t do it.”

Zach: “You should write a blog about how you’re too tired to write a blog.”

So there you have it. Here I am, whining about how tired I am. Original isn’t?

It’s true folks, I’m a pooped puppy.

I know that the whole wide world is tired and there are starving children, so really, what do I have to complain about?

I like to consider it whining more than complaining though. There is a difference ya know.

Me and my dear friend Julie. We’re due only a week apart! Crazy isn’t?

So anyway…I’m now 34 weeks preggers and feeling every bit of it. Up until this point I have honestly felt great, like surprisingly great. I have had the energy to chase after my Bitzy, clean house during nap times, work 2 days a week, cook every night and not be a total zombie in the evenings. I have been shocked at my energy levels…but friends, times they are a’changing.

Almost overnight I have been slapped silly with exhaustion.

Not to mention that I’m bigger than Mount Olympus. It’s true, I’m a large lady.

At my 32 week ultrasound they estimated that our new little Buddy was already 5 pounds. That’s scary folks.

Bitzy was 8 pounds, 9 ounces and 21 inches long at birth and she was 10 days late…it’s looking like little buddy may blow that outta the water.

I know that some of you probably had 10 pounders, (God bless you every one)…but I’m telling you, pushing an 8.5 pounder out of my body for 3 hours wasn’t my favorite experience ever.

All that to say, in addition to the Banana Pudding Milkshakes that I’m wearing on both of my thighs I have a huge baby that is encompassing my belly.

So excuse me for being a blogging slacker…right now my main priority is taking care of my little family without totally passing out.

Love to all,

My sweet pea,

I fear that I’m awfully late on writing your 16 month letter simply because it’s way more fun to play with you and be with you than writing about/to you!

It’s true…you are so much fun to be with. I laughingly call you my sidekick, but it’s true. You’re my little best friend. I just love being with you, laughing with you, playing and delighting in you darling.

Playing with babies is a common theme in our house. You LOVE to put your babies to down for naptime.

There isn’t one morning snuggle time, daytime playtime or evening night-night routine that I take for granted. I absolutely cherish every moment with you…I believe that our sweet heavenly Father has given me this gift. I never tire of you…ever. I hope and pray that He will also give you the gift of appreciation of this beautiful life that we get to share together. We are blessed my love…so very, very blessed to have each other.

These days you are still completely obsessed with being outside. You love it like no other. You love your puppies (as per usual), coloring, playing with sticks, blowing bubbles and digging in the dirt. It is such a joy to watch you piece this puzzle of a world together through the wonderment of the outdoors. I’m looking so forward to the weather warming up so that we can play outside all day, every day.

Bitzy with her sweet cousin. They are so precious together.

The clock is still ticking on when your baby brother will arrive…only 6 more weeks ’til you’re a big sister!!!  You’ve been hearing a lot of this term “big sister” and I know that it means nothing to you at this point, but you’ll learn soon enough how much little brother is gonna change your life. I just know that you are going to be an amazing big sister. You are so loving and compassionate I’m positive that you will be the best big sister ever!!!

Again, I just cannot stress to enough have very much your daddy and me love and adore you. We are so grateful and thrilled to be your mommy and daddy and we thank God every day for you and your precious heart.

Love you to the moon and back,

Mama

“Met a guy today. He was so cute. He smelled of cigarettes and sweat and for some reason, I kinda liked it,” I said to my friend Jenny as I left the first day of my Photography 101 class in college.

This is not a common combination that would make most women swoon, but for me, it was an aphrodisiac with this mystery man.

There was just something about him…something unique.

His jet black, unruly curls, along with his fuzzy five o’clock shadow, coupled with his loose fitting plain red t-shirt and khaki shorts were quite the opposite than what you would find in the covers of a JCrew magazine.

He wasn’t my type. Nope, not at all.

But again, the reaction I had to him at that first meeting was a chemical reaction. I was immediately smitten with him.

This kind of reaction doesn’t come along every day I soon learned.

After a brief dating relationship we bid goodbye at graduation and didn’t see him again for a few years.

But when we reunited, we never let go again.

While his old cologne of cigarettes and sweat is gone, the way he makes my knees weak remains. The way he handles my fragile heart with such care and makes me squeal with laughter on a daily basis, the way that he whispers bedtime prayers into the ears of our Bitzy, and the way that he looks at me as if I were the only girl in the world, are just a few of the reasons that I am proud to call him mine.

I love you with my whole heart Zach. I promise to love you forever and ever. Happy Anniversary my love!

May you all experience love today…

PS: Like my little stories? I would really appreciate it if you’d vote for me here and here.

1. The other day I ate 12 miniature peppermint patties in 1 minute. That’s right. There was no timer or contest, it was just me eating them ravenously. I don’t regret it. In fact, I’m kind of impressed with myself.

2. Also? I love Samoas guts. Like, really love ‘em. There is no limit to how many I could eat. While I have no record (yet), I love them with my whole heart. Thank you Girl Scouts, thank you.

3. Oh, and I love this too. That’s right. It’s my new bath tub! Every time I look at it, “Hello Lover” pops out of my mouth. Historically I’m not really into taking baths, I’m much more of a shower kind of girl…but with this beauty, times, they are a’changin’.

4. Also, I’m bigger than a barn. It’s true. I stood beside a barn today and practically swallowed it. It’s a real situation. My doctor assures me that I’m measuring “right on”…but I know he’s lying. If I’m having twins and he’s not telling me I’m gonna be real upset.

5. Speaking of twins, praise the Lord that no one has asked me (yet) if I’m growing two tiny humans in my womb. I think I may just burst into tears if they did. But we should get the tissues ready, because it’s inevitable. Some idiot will ask me and I’ll have to blush and say, “no, just the one” and then I will verbally abuse them in my head for the next 50 years of my life.

6. The other day I had a thought about what I was really good at. Ya know, like really good at…and NO LIE, three things popped into my head. 1.) Being a wife. 2.) Being a mommy and 3.) Being the best dang chubby bunny competitor on the planet. The fact that I am positive that I could beat anyone, anywhere, in a chubby bunny competition is a bit disturbing to even me. Do I need counseling?

7. I love my new house. LOVE IT.

8. Do all mamas think that their child is the cutest kid in the whole wide world? If not, I’m in trouble…my Bitzy just keeps getting cuter every day (even if she hates having her picture taken!).

9. I’m 31 weeks pregnant in case you’re counting. Not that I am or anything.

10. And finally, in an effort to covet things that I cannot afford I want to share this beautiful patio table with you, click here. Also, I want these chairs too (while we’re daydreaming of course).  I dare say that even if I were a bazillionaire I would feel weird about spending $900 on an outdoor table and $399 PER CHAIR, that my puppies could/would destroy. So since I’m NOT a bazillionaire I think I’m going with this patio furniture instead. Good and inexpensive, just the way I like it.

Love to all! Have a happy day!~

PS: Like my little stories? I would really appreciate it if you’d vote for me here and here.

I was around 24 weeks in this pic. Now at 28 weeks I’m at least 899% bigger. It’s a real situation.

Remind me never to get pregnant again in the winter okay?

No really.

When I was preggers with Bitzy we found out in February and by the time I was actually showing and starting to feel the effects of growing a tiny human, it was spring. I totally missed the plagues of winter.

Granted I had a whole lot of other annoying pregnancy issues, but at least I wasn’t sick all the time.

On the other hand, with this new little baby boy growing inside of me we found out in September, which puts me smack dab in the middle of pregnancy misery in the dead of winter.

So far, I have had two terrible bouts of bronchitis coupled with the special treat of a sinus infection, and most recently, a stomach flu which put me inches away from having to get fluids at labor and delivery.

Again, remind me that pregnancy is winter is a really bad idea. Sure, there is no swelling from the hellish heat, but standing at deaths door from the plagues of winter and apparently nonexistent immunity, make for a tough few months.

(Maybe this has something to do with the fact that I am, in fact, growing a tiny human as well as nursing a toddler…hmmm..something to consider).

Anyway, the moral of the story is that I hate being sick. Hate it. And I have become quite familiar with sickness this winter, which is a drag in general.

However, I will pledge to be sick forever rather than to watch my sweet little angel be sick ever again. My goodness that sweetie is so pitiful when she’s a sicko.

There is generally a 1-2 day window between when I contract the disease and when Bitzy gets it.

For example, on Friday night around 8:00pm I began feeling terrible, and by 3:00am I was on the phone with my OB begging him to call me in medicine to help me stop vomiting in order to not have to go to labor and delivery due to dehydration. I was in a bad place.

Fast forward 48 hours to Sunday night and around 9:00pm I hear my sweetheart crying on the monitor, which despite our sleep wars of the past, nowadays if she wakes up in the middle of the night it is very strange indeed.

After obsessing and pacing with my handy dandy video monitor I finally ventured upstairs to check on her.

I was not prepared for what I found .

She was covered from head to toe in vomit. The sheets, her lovely, even her sleep sheep were covered.

Needless to say, she was completely confused and pathetic.

I practically broke my neck to run to her and cuddle her despite her unfortunate stench. She whimpered and snuggled close to me.

She was so completely covered that we had to give her a bath, which was confusing to her and apparently devastating. The entire bath she wailed and screamed, it was pitiful.

Unfortunately this particular virus wasn’t a one vomit wonder. There were lots. Like lots and lots. Finally, after several rounds of changing her pajamas and changing my shirts we ended up back in the rocking chair skin to skin with a blanket wrapped around us.

There was something so simple and almost primitive about it. It was beautiful in fact. A mother and daughter clinging to each other, not only for heat but for reassurance. I needed to know that she was okay and that this would pass and she needed to know that her mama was there.

I probably whispered, “It’s okay baby, mama is here” at least 100 times in the wee hours of the morning as we clung to each other.

It was a rite of passage I suppose.

Motherhood isn’t just about reading the same book 20 times a day. Or giving baths and snuggles. Or even about begging God to protect the little person that has totally captured my heart in a short 15 months.

It’s about being there.

Being present.

Being the one person that she wants most in all the world when she feels that her little world is being shaken apart.

I don’t have to be the prettiest or the funniest mama ever. I don’t have to know all the right answers and always do everything right. But I do have to be there. To hold and rock and whisper that everything is going to be okay. To comfort, adjust and teach. To love.

To always love.

That’s what I learned about motherhood through the plague.

A hard fought lesson, but a necessary one nonetheless.

Hello my long lost friends!!! Life has been, well, busy. And unfortunately my little stories have suffered! But, life is never too busy to celebrate my favorite past time…LOVE.

You see, I’m not a big fan of Valentines Day, never have been. It just seems so…staged. So fake.

I mean, stuffed bears, chocolates and balloons are great and all, but like every holiday, I wonder why we only celebrate love one day a year.

For Zach and me, we’re certainly not extremely romantic people. Sure, we have plenty of romantic tales that shall never be told (especially on the interwebs), but for the most part we simply enjoy each other’s company.

For example, I though that we were going to forego celebrating V-Day all together this year, which honestly was totally fine by me. I did draw him a picture (which looked like a 6 year old drew it), wrote him a letter and bought him a pound of Sumatra coffee from Starbucks, but that was all. I was looking forward to a night at home.

So, as I walked in the door with my Bitzy I see my sweet husband baking a cake (first time ever), roses on the table and lots and lots of sprinkles! Zach knows me well enough to know that I would much rather buy a new lamp than to go out and eat a $100 steak, so he ordered pizza and we established a brand new family tradition!!! From now on, Zach will bake a cake and we’ll all decorate it as a family.

This was only Bitzy’s third time to ever eat sugar, so she was very interested! However, unlike her sugaraholic mama she was much more interested in rubbing the icing all over her and then wiping it on me. It was wonderful to say the least!

But ya know what? More than pizza and cake and roses, I experienced true love on Valentines Day. Love for my thoughtful husband and my beautiful baby girl and my tiny little baby boy that is growing inside me. But more than all of that, as I read from Song of Solomon I had tears streaming down my cheeks that God has so lavishly blessed my life with an overflow of LOVE. HIS love.

And that friends, is much better than a teddy bear.

Here is a little walk down memory lane as I celebrate the love of my life…my Zach.

“Place me like a seal over your heart,
like a seal on your arm;
for love is as strong as death,
its jealousy unyielding as the grave.

It burns like blazing fire,
like a mighty flame.

Many waters cannot quench love;
rivers cannot sweep it away.

If one were to give
all the wealth of one’s house for love,
it would be utterly scorned.”

Song of Solomon 8:6-7

We have well established that I love food.

Particularly food of the sugary sort to be sure, but I am, forever and always, a food lover.

Sure, I’m frequently a weirdo about various food items, but overall, I love food and food loves me (and my ever expanding 6 months pregnant hips).

However, I am a bit of a weirdo about red meat. I L-O-V-E steak, but hamburger meat totally weirds me out. Remember the spaghetti little story? Read about it here.

I simply cannot bear it when red meat is in tacos. Homemade, store bought, fast food, you name it, it grosses me out to no end. It’s just so….wet. And greasy. And mysterious.

Just Saturday during our moving shenanigans (yes, you will get pictures, just let me find that pesky camera cord), Zach was eating a taco from Taco Bell. He asked if I wanted a bite and THANK THE LORD I checked to make sure it was chicken. When I realized it was mystery beef, I strongly declined.

Then, today I read this article…

Hold the phone Batman. I just threw up in my freaking mouth.

Here are the ingredients in Taco Bell’s “Meat”:

Water, isolated oat product, salt, chili pepper, onion powder, tomato powder, oats (wheat), soy lecithin, sugar, spices, maltodextrin (a polysaccharide that is absorbed as glucose), soybean oil (anti-dusting agent), garlic powder, autolyzed yeast extract, citric acid, caramel color, cocoa powder, silicon dioxide (anti-caking agent), natural flavors, yeast, modified corn starch, natural smoke flavor, salt, sodium phosphate, less than 2% of beef broth, potassium phosphate, and potassium lactate.

Ummm…I am no health nut. In fact, I’m pretty sure that my body is made of 45% chocolate.  But I’ll take it any day over “isolated oat product“.

What in the heck is that anyway?

Needless to say, I’m holding steady to my refusal to eat ground beef of any variety.

I mean, it that not disguisting????

My darling girl,

You are growing like a weed. It is unbelievable to me how fast you grow and learn. You are truly like a sponge, soaking in new words, actions and gestures constantly. I LOVE watching you grow and learn.

My love, I have a confession.  When you were just a glimmer in my eye, even before your daddy and me were married, I wondered if I would love motherhood as much as I hoped. It’s a scary thought to think that my life’s dream may not be as fabulous as I thought. So I asked a friend who had four children. Her response, “There is nothing in the whole world as wonderful as seeing your children grow and learn every day. Nothing.”

And ya know what? I couldn’t agree more.

As I’ve said before, with each passing day you before more independent and there are pieces of sadness that go with the joy of watching you grow…but overall, there is nothing more exciting than cheering you on as you conquer the world.

Also? Maybe it’s the first time mommy in me, but I’m pretty sure you’re the smartest baby ever, which brings your daddy and me no end of amazement. It’s true. You never cease to amaze us with your athleticism (aka: climbing/running/dancing), vocabulary (you can now say baby, belly button, banana, daddy, pop, mama, water, ice, milk, up, diaper, the list goes on and on), and your unending ability to listen and comprehend what we say. It’s truly incredible.

You’re sleeping so well at night and your naps are improving (slowly but surely). We’re so proud of you! For a baby who hates sleep, you sure do require a lot of it, which never ceases to keep me on my toes:).

Your favorite thing in the whole wide world is to nurse.  And I confess, I love it too. I’m a bit confused on how in the world we’re going to wean you before your baby brother comes in a few months, but hey, we’ll figure it out just like we do everything else:).

And your laugh? Oh, your laugh. I could record it and listen to it on repeat all day long. Thankfully, you laugh often and I never ever tire of your endless squeals. It’s by far and away my favorite sound on earth.

More than anything, I find myself begging God to freeze time so that I can soak you in. Each day seems so short with you. I can be with you all day and night everyday and it still wouldn’t satisfy my desire to memorize your every gesture. YOU my love, are that amazing…that wonderful.  Don’t you ever, ever forget it.

I love you more today than yesterday baby girl,

Mama

I make it no secret that I love television.

Clearly, I love my drama shows. Love them. They are all my personal friends and I refuse to believe that it’s all pretend.

(Yes, I am referring to Meredith and Derrick. Thanks for asking).

I also love a good comedy…although I must admit that it seems that the 30 minute family sitcom is few and far between. I have 3 comedy’s that I watch and 3 dramas that I watch every week.

(Hello Michael Scott).

While I love these shows, I’ve gotta be honest, Say Yes to the Dress on TLC is my most favorite show.

Too much? I think not.

Apparently I’m obsessed with wedding dresses.

Totally and completely obsessed.

Granted, I love, love, love all things weddings, so it’s not completely odd, but I’m normally more into the wedding details, rather than the obvious things…like the dress.

Thanks to this show, I simply must have a renewal ceremony of our vows every 10 years.

Do you think that would be overdoing it?

Nah.

After I drool over the beautiful wedding dresses I cry over A Baby Story.

When I say cry, I mean cry. Like big ugly crying that ends with black mascara running down my cheeks. It kills me every time.

My latest love? Actually, love is strong. It’s more like a train wreck that I am glued to and can’t look away. You guessed it, Toddlers and Tiaras. I’m torn between calling Child Protective Services and laughing hysterically at these completely ridiculous people. My favorite line so far you ask? That’s easy. “My goal in life is to have my daughter become Miss America.”

Really? Really? Really?

Is she being paid? There is no way that that is her life’s goal.

Also? Said child is 15 months old.

Now remember that My Bitzy is 14 months old. Just thinking about doing the things to my baby that this crazy mama is doing to her baby makes me cringe. For one thing, Bitzy would have none of it. Things like baby fake nails, blow drying and curling hair, and duct taping a dress to her tiny little body wouldn’t exactly fly with my girl. Bitzy has no tolerance for getting her clothes changed, much less any of the above activities.  Again, CPS anyone?

Also? She actually said, “I just don’t know how my girl will react if she doesn’t win. She loves to win.” I hate to break it to this insane mama, but if you’re kid is 15 months old I’m not quite convinced that she’ll be heartbroken if she doesn’t win the crown. Give the child some goldfish crackers and some milk and she’ll survive.

Then there’s My Strange Addiction.

Oh my.

“I’m addicted to wearing fur suits.”

“I’m addicted to pulling out my hair.”

“I’m addicted to eating couch cushions.”

“I’m addicted to eating toilet paper.”

“I’m addicted to eating laundry detergent.”

Need I say more?

Well, maybe that my strange addiction is watching crazy shows on TLC.

There, I said it.

TLC is awesome. Way awesome.

When waiting for a husband (notice that I didn’t write, “when looking for a husband”) it’s important to dream about the kind of man that you want.

Ya know, godly, funny, smart, good with a hammer (because girls, I cannot stress how important this skill is), handsome, kind, and most of all, likeable.

Contrary to popular belief, if you don’t actually like your husband before you get married, chances are that you won’t after you’re married. Just a small factoid for your back pocket.

This said, I totally hit the husband jackpot.

My man makes me laugh constantly, he relaxes me and he always makes me feel like the prettiest girl in the room.

Which is important when I’m 20 weeks pregnant and haven’t had a good hair day in weeks.

Also? He’s an amazing daddy.

He is loving to our Bitzy and tells her over and over how beautiful and funny she is everyday. Seeing as how I also tell her those things constantly throughout the day, when she grows up she’ll either be the most confident and self assured women in he world, or she’ll be applying for Miss Universe. Either or works for us.

I could go on and on about my Zach and his fantastic attributes. Really, I could. But instead, I want to share with you one of the Christmas presents that I made for him.  Unfortunately, I didn’t write the poem, although I wish that I could have written something as potent and poetic as that.

It summarizes so beautifully his relationship with our beautiful Bitzy.

Naturally, we both sobbed when he opened it. I mean, I sobbed. He never, ever cries, because clearly, real men don’t cry (wink, wink).

Here it is…

I am blessed beyond measure.

Thank you Lord.

Hug your husbands gals! And those of you who are still waiting for yours…dream a little about him today.

As we embark upon a brand spankin’ new year it’s appropriate to dream, think and plan for our fresh slate of 2011.

Have you been asking yourself some age old questions recently about how the world goes ’round? Why the sky is blue? How the ocean stays contained and doesn’t rip into every house in sight?

Or, maybe more like, how can I stop eating every kind of sugary substance in sight and perhaps try an apple or grape? No? Maybe that’s just me.

Well, I don’t know the answers to any of those questions. Nope, not at all.

Sorry.

I stopped listening during science lessons when I was in 1st grade (no, really), and I’m 100% addicted to sugar. So much in fact, I keep waiting for TLC to come to my house and do some kind of freaky documentary on me and my addiction. If that every happens, you’ll be the first to know.

Anyway, I’ve been thinking a lot about 2011. Here’s some details…

*In January we’re moving out of our house (while I’m thrilled that our house FINALLY sold, I dread, dread, dread packing/moving).

*In January (please Jesus) we’re moving into an amazing house that we both adore! There’s some work to do (finishing the basement, painting, etc.), but nothing too extensive. It’s absolutely perfect for our growing family and we feel so very blessed to have the opportunity to call it our own!

*In May, we’ll welcome our baby boy, which just seems so strange to type. I still don’t feel pregnant. Sure, I’ve got a nice round tummy going on and my hips are widening by the second, but still, I feel great. I can’t believe that I’ll be a mother of 2 in only a few months. Un-be-liev-able.

*On another random note, Zach and I have dreamed of writing a children’s book since we were dating. Even if the only kiddos that ever read it are our own, we’re okay with that!  It’s a desire of our hearts and we’re going to make it happen! I’m going to write and Zach will illustrate, so stay tuned in 2011 for our new book!!!

*Then, after all the excitement of a new house and new baby, and best selling children’s book (ha!), life will hopefully settle down and we can get into our groove. We’ll be a family of 4 in a beautiful home with our 2 crazy puppies accompanying us all the way. It just seems like it’s someone else’s life, ya know? I assumed we’d live in this small 3 bedroom townhouse forever. But, thankfully, we’re moving out and moving on!

So there ya go. Lots-o-changes with lots-o-blessings.

I can’t believe that I get to live this life. So VERY fun.

What are your dreams, goals and resolutions for 2011??? Do tell!

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As I sit at my Mama’s house examining the overflow of stockings on the fireplace and searching for a place to sit in the sea of my siblings, toys, my squealing baby girl, and friends, I am overwhelmed at the tangible blessings in front of my eyes.

Family.

Life.

Health.

Love.

But mostly I am thankful for a tiny baby King named Jesus.  The One who brings us all together in His name, the One who calls us to remember how He came from His heavenly throne in heaven to experience life just as we do.

He didn’t have to ya know? It wasn’t on His bucket list or anything. When you’re the Son of God, things like crazy adventures, road trips and long walks down the beach aren’t quite as magical when you experience them as a human rather than as Creator. It’s not like leaving a perfect paradise of heaven for a sinful and selfish earthly home would be pleasant.

But still, He came.

He came as a tiny baby in a manager to a mommy that wasn’t old enough to have a drivers license, much less be a mother.

There wasn’t a parade welcoming the King of the universe into the world.

No trumpets.

No carriages.

No flags.

Nope. None of that.

Just a teenager and her fiancee meeting their Creator wrapped in swaddling clothes.

I wonder if as Mary held her newborn son that she considered how His birth would be the timetable in which all of history is set? Or if she realized that although He came to earth in such humility that He would come back in such a glorious fashion that every single knee will bow and every tongue confess that He is Lord?

Did she know that the tiny baby that was pressed against her chest would eventually be pierced for her own sins?

Did she know how her heart would break?

Could she imagine how much one person could bring such joy, but such heartache?

I hope not.

I hope that as Mary caressed the cheek of her son, that she memorized the lines on His face. That she ran her young finger up and down His tiny legs and arms and tickled His baby feet. That she rocked Him and whispered how much she loved Him.

That she breathed Him in and lived in that very moment. Not the past or the future, just the present.

So in honor of Mary and her sweet baby King Jesus, I will do the same.

I will not worry about yesterday or tomorrow, I will sit and look around at the faces of my family and breathe them in and memorize them. I will soak in the pleasure of my sweet baby girl’s Christmas joy that has absolutely nothing to do with presents or Santa. I will bask in the glow of Christmas lights that shine in my soul mates eyes, and then…

I will thank Jesus for coming. For His gift of love and the incomparable delight of being His daughter.

Have a Merry Christmas!

My beautiful,

As I sit still to reflect upon this past month I can’t help but have a permanent grin on my face. Every day your personality develops more than the day before. You are so very funny and full of life…and you’re always on the go. Always.

Constantly happy, laughing and your latest pastime: Squealing! I never thought that I would love a sound more than your laugh, but your high pitching yummy delicious squeal is in the running for my favorite sound ever.

Your vocabulary continues to grow and amaze me! What you understand and try to communicate with half words, pointing, babbling and signing is incredible!  You are a natural communicator honey bunny!

And as I’ve said before, you are truly a delight. Your daddy and me were talking yesterday about what a JOY and DELIGHT you are. We honestly cannot imagine our life without you. You bring us so much laughter, joy and utter delight. Every single day is better than the day before. Our love for you grow by leaps and bounds every day.

These days you’re not only walking, but running. And of course, you are into everything to be sure, but we are constantly amazed at your obedience. You listen so well and follow directions! We are so proud of you!

We found out this month that you are going to have a little brother! When you’re older and you read this you probably won’t have any memories without him being by your side. You guys are going to be quite a pair. I am beyond excited to watch the two of you bond and grow up together.

My two perfect gifts.

Sweet pea, as Christmas approaches I am more thankful than ever that God has so luxuriously blessed us with you. You are more than we ever could have asked for or imagined, and we give all glory and praise forever and amen to the Maker of the moon and stars and our Creator. The One who knitted you together in my tummy, the One who loves you even more than your daddy and me (and that’s a lot), the One who says that you are the apple of His eye. The One who gave up His own Son so that you could live a life of forgiveness and freedom. His name is Jesus.

At His name every knee will bow and every tongue will confess that He is LORD. Amen. Our most fervent prayer for you is that you will always love Jesus “the most.” More than anything, you’ll fall in love with His Word and His heart.

We’ll talk more about that later, but I do want you to know that even at a tender 13 months old, God is whispering His story into your heart through our talks and books and laughter. He is always near.

I love you my darling love more than banana cream pie and mint m&ms,

Mama

There are moments in life that are surreal. For me, things like starting Kindergarten, getting my drivers license, going to college, getting married and giving birth were all landmark moments in my life. I couldn’t imagine them ever happening, but low and behold, they happened. And now as I look back, I still remember the shock of it all. Almost as if I needed to memorize the feelings I felt because I recognized how rare and special those moments truly were.

Today, I had a surreal moment.

As I laid on the white paper clad ultrasound bed having warm gel slathered all over my growing belly I was nervous and excited. It’s not every day that you learn whether your newest sweetheart will wear blue or pink.

I remember as a kid putting pillows under my shirt and prancing around my bedroom wearing either a blue or pink shirt to signify the baby’s gender. Again, I couldn’t fathom that I would ever actually have a real baby growing, flipping and dancing in my belly. It just seemed like a far away fairytale.

Thankfully, my fairytale has come true.

With my precious Zach by my side as he held my love and firstborn, Bitzy Boo, we looked at our newest sweet pea. Although I have felt lots of movement already it’s different seeing the baby moving and shaking on the big screen. It was magical to say the least.

And then, the ultrasound tech answered the long awaited question. BOY.

A healthy, beautiful, strong boy.

As the tears streamed down my cheeks they were filled with happiness, joy and (I’m not gonna lie) a bit of fear of mothering the heart of a boy. But again, I recognized the significance of this surreal moment.

And I memorized it.

I recorded it in the jukebox of my heart and I’ll never, ever, forget the feeling of knowing that a tiny little baby boy is growing like a weed inside of me.

Glory to God in the highest.

Apparently Negative Nancy has come into my house and taken over my body.

I’m feeling like quite the skeptic this evening. I admit that my normally, Positive Polly counterpart is offended that Nancy has embodied me, but has allowed just this one night for me to vent all of my frustrations with the world.

So, in the name of Negative Nancy’s everywhere I’m gonna let ‘er rip.

1. I’m annoyed at TV. So many shows are terrible and disturbing. Let’s take Sister Wives for example. Hmmm…the “old” wives are mad at their “husband” because he’s taking his brand spankin’ new wife on an 11 day honeymoon. They feel “left out.” Now, I’m no expert on Mormonism, but come on people. Of course you feel left out, your husband is sleeping with another woman for goodness sake. Get a grip.

2. Back to TV. Zach went to the store tonight to get me some paper towels because, apparently my life doesn’t work without them. It’s like I can’t function in the kitchen without paper towels. Anyway, I had a few minutes with my own DVR queue madness and I happened upon, wait for it, Pregnant and Addicted. Apparently this lady was a heroin addict who is now “just” addicted to Methadone (which apparently is better for you than heroin- so that’s a victory).  I realize that addictions are real so I wasn’t too far down the judgmental path until she said that both her live-in boyfriend and her are BOTH addicts on unemployment with no plans of finding a job, because apparently it’s a lot of work to stay medicated day in and day out. Makes.Me.Crazy.

3. Daisy is truly driving me insane. Honestly I think that my visit from Negative Nancy is 89% Daisy’s fault. The good news? Since it’s FRIGID outside I started giving her “room time” in her crate in the basement. This gives me a break. I mean, Bitzy has to take naps in her crib, why shouldn’t the puppies have to as well?

4. As I have previously said before, I hate maternity clothes. Like, really hate them. I would rather wear one of Zach’s huge sweatshirts for the next five months than wear some of the awful clothes. It’s such a downer every morning putting on terrible clothes.

5. Lastly, this week my sweet Bitzy and Zach have been deathly sick with me having just a tiny touch of it. I was busy tending to them and now that they’re feeling better? I’m sicker than a dog. Funny how that works isn’t?

Okay, I’m already annoying myself by being Negative Nancy. Life is too fun to complain!!!

I mean, look at this picture…how could I be negative for more than 25 seconds when I’ve got these beauties in my arms?

Now that I’m feeling better after my vent, TODAY is THE day that we find out what kind of little bun we’re having. To say that I’m exciting doesn’t quite cover it. In fact, me, the non-dancer just did a little jig and Zach said, “Look at you, you have a little bit of swing after all when you’re excited.” Babies make me do crazy things I guess…like dance!

Have a Positive Polly kinda day:).

I have not forsaken you my dear readers. Promise.

I’ve got a healthy mix of exhaustion, writers block and being a busy bee.

I’ve got 11, yes 11, half written drafts sitting in my blog queue. So, you’ve got lots-o-fun coming your way.

But for now, I have a few tidbits for you…

Some of you will receive one of this priceless works of art in your mailbox!!! Yay!

Get ready for my sweethearts.

In other news, my Bitzy slept for an hour and forty-five minutes today in her crib for her first nap!!!! I couldn’t believe it!!! So, then during the time of her second nap she walked around, whined, played and hung over the side of the crib for a solid hour. It’s like her body doesn’t know how to deal with a really good nap. So after her skipping her second nap she’ll be ready for bed at 5:00pm. It should be interesting around here this afternoon trying to stretch it out to at least 6:00pm.

Also, in case you were wondering, all maternity clothes are terrible and it’s starting to make me really annoyed. Just because I’m preggers doesn’t mean that I’m blind! I can see the terrible clothes on the racks! So the other night I was having a melt down about ugly maternity clothes and Zach says, “You should be a clothes designer!  Maybe that’s your calling!” To this I had visions of being the next Calvin Kline and then I remembered that I can’t sew or draw, so I suppose being a designer is out of the question.

Also? If you’re obsessed with spinal cord injuries and pregnancy, search no further, there’s a show on TLC called “Paralyzed and Pregnant with Twins.” It’s a Christmas miracle.

And finally, if you’re wondering if it’s possible to eat an entire pan of Rice Krispy Treats in one sitting, let me clear it up for you, YES! It’s quite easy actually.

Did you know that you can get a 1/4 caffeinated beverage? You totally can at your local Starbucks. So, since being preggers if I’m extra tired in the morning I do a little drive- by and get a (tighten your seat belts, it’s intense), a “Tall, Quarter Caff, Non-fat, No whip Peppermint Mocha with no chocolate shaving. Please.”  Isn’t that fabulous?!  The rub? This morning I’m innocently drinking it and I begin to feel nauseated and dizzy, very much like a felt with my Bitzy for the first 20 weeks of pregnancy.  If we could all say a little prayer together that this weird sicky feeling was a fluke that would be wonderful. It’s the most wonderful time of the year and peppermint mocha’s are very much a part of that!

I suppose this isn’t a confession, but still, it’s news. My laptop bag of many years tragically ripped last week and I had to get a new one. Check this beauty out…I love it! The brand is Kailo Chic if you’re in the market for a new bag.

You’re never gonna believe this in a billion years. The past few weeks I have truly outdone myself with the candy consumption. I have truly been impressed with my resilience and fortitude in putting some serious candy away. Not to mention all the other junk. Cheeseburgers, pizza, ya know, crap. It’s like I was in a prison with Weight Watchers and now I am wild animal out of my cage searching for all the Partially Hydrogenated Oil I can find. And boy have I found it. But then on Saturday something happened, all I wanted was salad and fruit. It was like my little baby said, “OK Mama, you’ve had your hay day, now feed some something green.”  So I have. I have eaten better than ever the past few days and I’m feeling much better. Sometimes you’ve just gotta have a junk food binge. Right? Can I get a witness?

I murdered 4 crawdads (or crickets, whatever) yesterday and I feel absolutely no remorse. I do not understand why they continue coming into our house. I mean, it’s winter. Don’t animals die or hibernate or something in the winter? Ah, so freaking annoying. As long as they come, I will continue to murder. Be warned crawdads, be warned.

The other night, around 10:00 or so, Zach and I were watching something lame on TV and I got struck by Magical Christmas Lightening. It’s true. In a flash, Christmas spirit flooded my body and I just HAD to decorate right then. You know the feeling? When you just cannot live another minute without the twinkle of white lights sparkling in your home?  So, of course I sit up and say “We’ve gotta decorate for Christmas! It’s almost Thanksgiving!” Here’s the rest of our “chat.”

Zach: “Forget it, it’s too late. Can you relax for once?”

Me: “Never. We’ve gotta decorate. I will totally explode if we don’t decorate right now.”

Zach: “We don’t have a tree and won’t for weeks, let’s just wait.”

Me: “If you don’t help me, I’ll get up in the middle of the night and do it myself.”

Zach: “You wouldn’t.”

Me. “I would buddy. I so would.”

Zach: “Fine, I’ll get it all out for you, but then, you’re on your own.”

Me: “Except for hanging the garlands, right? You’re so good at hanging garlands (are you picking up my game here ladies?).

Zach: “Fine. Garlands and that’s it. Sometimes you drive me crazy.”

Me: “You mean, in charming, fabulous way?”

Zach: “Um, yeah, something like that.”

And then, we began the Christmas decorating of 2010. And it looks fabulous, if I do say so myself.

In other news, my sweet Bitzy has really stepped her “pretend play” lately. Love doesn’t describe how much I love playing pretend. We play tea party, nap-time (we put all of our babies and stuffed animals under a blanket and kiss them all) and then we play kitchen. I had no idea that the awesomeness of pretend would come so early. At only 13 months (today!) she’s a regular imagination station. Best.Time.Ever.

Daisy and Lily have been on “vacation” at their grandparents house. They’ve been home for 2 days straight and haven’t driven me crazy (yet). It’s a record. Maybe we’re all on the road to recovery.

Do you have any confessions for me? Do tell my peeps.