tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-66961817503678562202024-03-13T19:55:00.667-07:00Phillips FamilyBeing the best mommy you can be. Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.comBlogger59125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-12654243464991515772015-05-09T14:15:00.001-07:002015-05-09T23:25:41.876-07:00Mother's Day. With help from a few amazing moms.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br>
<span style="color: #373e4d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="line-height: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">This Mother's day I decided I wanted to hear from other mothers. So I decided to ask a few mothers for their help. I went for mothers all in different stages. From expecting, to adoptive, to a mother of one, to a mothers of more than one, to a mother who has lost and is so incredibly strong. Each one of these women has taught me something about being a mother. Each one has shown me examples of love and strength. I have cried with many of these women multiple times. We are all bonded together by motherhood. We ALL know how difficult and rewarding it is to be a mother. I asked each of these amazing moms two questions. What does it mean to you to be a mother? What is your favorite memory as a mother? </span></span><br>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;">Andrea Snow</span><br>
<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span data-reactid=".2p.$mid=11430978843412=29693088039ffa59890.2:0.0.0.0.0.0.$text0:0:$0:0" style="color: #373e4d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">The lovely Jessica asked me to be a featured on her blog with other awesome mommies.</span><span style="color: #373e4d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">I am going to be a first time mom in July and I cannot wait. What I am most excited for you ask? To be honest… everything!! I feel so blessed everyday to be pregnant with our little Henry. I am so excited to hear his first cry, see his little face for the first time, cuddle him, nurse him, and to raise him. I day dream about meeting him every day. I am already so in love with our little boy. </span></span><br>
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<span style="font-size: x-small;"><span data-reactid=".2p.$mid=11430978843412=29693088039ffa59890.2:0.0.0.0.0.0.$text0:0:$4:0">What does being a mother mean to me?</span><span data-reactid=".2p.$mid=11430978843412=29693088039ffa59890.2:0.0.0.0.0.0.$text0:0:$6:0">It means everything to me. I grew up with the best mother. She is my greatest example of what a Mother should be like. My mother is loving, kind, generous, funny, and charitable, always my number one fan, positive, a woman of great Faith, and she is my best friend. If I can be half the Mother was she to me, then our little Henry will be blessed.</span><span data-reactid=".2p.$mid=11430978843412=29693088039ffa59890.2:0.0.0.0.0.0.$text0:0:$8:0">Xo, </span><span data-reactid=".2p.$mid=11430978843412=29693088039ffa59890.2:0.0.0.0.0.0.$text0:0:$10:0">Mrs. Snow</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #373e4d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Kaila Pfeifer</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #373e4d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">For me, explaining what being a mother means to me is so hard because it is my absolutely everything. Every morning when I wake up and hear Hudson calling me from his room, or I feel this little one kicking in my womb, I am reminded that I have been given this absolutely amazing, overwhelming, unique, and incredible blessing to nurture, teach, and know what the love of being a mother is like. I am reminded, too, having gone through several losses, that motherhood is such a delicate and precious gift; a "job" not to be taken for granted or taken lightly. One of my favorite memories while being a mom is when Hudson heard this new baby's heartbeat in my tummy. I held the Doppler to my stomach and he heard his brother/sister in my womb, full of life, and his eyes just lit up! He smiled so big and hugged my tummy and said "</span>Awww<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #373e4d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">!" I know he is only two and probably doesn't realize to full capacity what being a big brother means, but it was just such a loving and tender moment! </span></div>
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Kristen Hunter</div>
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<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #373e4d; line-height: 15px; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Ok finding the words to describe what it means to be a mom was harder than i thought. Before liam was born my fears were MINE . Now my fears are all about his safety and future decisions and being sure i teach him the things he needs to know and keeping him safe. Being a mom means loving someone else more than you ever thought possible beforehand. It means serving serving and more serving. It means always on the clock. Breakfast lunch dinner play time bath bedtime and all through the night. Its continually giving of yourself all day and all night . Its the hardest job but greatest sweetest ride. My sweetest memory was the day liam was born. He came out crying and immediately they put him on my chest i put my finger in his grasp and he grabbed onto it and didnt let go. Being a mom has been the hardest best decision of my life.</span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #373e4d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15px; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;">Erin Binford</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #373e4d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 15px; text-align: left; white-space: pre-wrap;">Motherhood means unconditional and selfless love. My favorite memory as a mother is getting the call to let us know our son, who we didn't even know yet would be our son was born. Getting to hold him for the first time, looking at him and knowing that even though I wasn't the mother that carried him under her heart for 9 months, I was the mother that carried him my heart for years.</span><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WxlOIzHafOA/VU5u_rbkBUI/AAAAAAAABN4/m8CJFcmUgk4/s1600/11186200_10152695982392294_1509017165_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WxlOIzHafOA/VU5u_rbkBUI/AAAAAAAABN4/m8CJFcmUgk4/s320/11186200_10152695982392294_1509017165_n.jpg" width="240"></a></div>
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Danielle Snow</div>
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<span style="color: black; background-color: transparent; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;"><span style="background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Being a mom has its crazy, frustrating, and exhausting moments. Especially when you feel like you feel like you have tried everything and yet you and your children are still not understanding each other. But their is this other side of it that you cannot fully understand until you experience. It is this love that is overwhelming and indescribable feeling that fills you and you feel that you just my explode. I cannot hug, snuggle, kiss and love on my kids enough. Even though I look forward to bed time... usually with in an hour of putting them too bed I literally ache to hold them and be near them. My children challenge me to be better. I would not trade being a mom for anything. Their smiles, laughs, cute faces, funny words.....the list goes on.....they are priceless. The first time my children told me they loved me with out being prompted is probably one of my favorite moments and memories I have of my children. </span></span><br>
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<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #373e4d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; line-height: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">Rhonda Fisher</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #373e4d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;">My most favorite Mommy Memory is hearing Riley crying for the first time. With </span>Rebecca<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #373e4d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> and </span>ReAnna<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #373e4d; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: x-small; line-height: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"> I as put completely under for their c sections, so I never got to hear their first cries. Hearing Riley's made me cry, knowing how much I missed with my first two and how much I loved each and everyone of them.</span></div>
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<span style="background-color: #f6f7f8; color: #373e4d; line-height: 15px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif;"><span style="font-size: x-small;">Being a mom means raising kids that are respectful and hard working. Kids that people say "Those are some great kids!" Also making sure that they have a childhood that they love and never forget. My childhood sucked, so I want to be sure theirs is all they could hope for.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white;">For me being a mom means </span>being their for my children 24/7. It means making sure they know that I love them no matter what. That even though I may not agree with the things they do and say, I will always support them. That I am always there for them. Being a mom means I have the most important job. I am shaping the men these boys of mine turn into. I am responsible for teaching them right and wrong. I am the one who teaches them how to love. Being a mom is my everything. There is absolutely nothing I would rather be doing then raising my boys.</div>
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My favorite memory as a mom is when Little man came to the hospital to meet his new brother. I will never forget that moment. He was so excited and nervous. He was so gentle. He was so proud. He was so in love from the moment he looked at his brother for the first time. </div>
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Each mother has the same fears. Each mother is the same at her core. Each mother is amazing and beautiful. Remember just how amazing you are. Happy Mother's day!</div>
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Be the best mommy you can be.</div>
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Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-88516429529267663802015-04-29T19:40:00.000-07:002015-04-29T19:40:55.216-07:00What kind of mother do you want to be?A few weeks ago I had an interesting conversation with a fellow mother. We talked about our babies. We talked about how they slept. Where they were, milestone wise. How they were doing with feedings. How they were doing with baby food. At this point I heard " Oh you are that kind of mom. You really are trying too hard." I completely understood where she was coming from. Because that is completely something I know I have said to a mom at one point in time. Actually I can think of three separate occasions that come to mind. Do we really have to make it harder on our selves? I have thought back to that conversation many times in the last couple of weeks.<br />
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I am a mom who loves to take care of her children. I am a co-sleeping, breastfeeding, cuddling, and baby food-making mom this time around. I have also been the crib sleeping, formula feeding, and Gerber food mom. Each child has and had their own likes and dislikes. I have been the best mom I could have been in both situations.<br />
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That statement really made me think. Are there really different kinds of moms? Or do we all do the what we feel is best for our children? I know for me having two different experiences I can say there aren't different kinds of moms. But rather a list of things that are important and things that are secondary.<br />
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For me as I have welcomed my second child I want to do more from scratch. I want to be more self sufficient. I admit it might have something to do with what is happening in the world around us. There may come a time in the future where a quick trip to the store might not be so easy. Lets face it. This world is getting worse instead of better. So for me I would much rather know how to do it myself.<br />
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I feel such joy watching my little one eat the fruits and veggies that I have made for him. I know his likes and dislikes. I love the look on his face when he takes the first bite of his favorite. How excited he gets when he sees his spoon and bowl coming towards him. I also love that it cost me a little less than $15 to make a month's worth.<br />
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But I have also felt those feelings when I fed Little Man store bought food. He still had his likes and dislikes. But he was also my first. I never even knew about the option of making his food for him. I stopped nursing him and switched to formula. I did the best I could. I still tried "too hard" to keep him happy. He never cried for longer then a few minutes. I was always right there when he needed me.<br />
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So yes I guess I am trying to hard. But isn't that the whole point of being a mom? The real question we should be asking ourselves is "What kind of mom do you want your children to see and know?"<br />
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I want my children to see me as a mom who loves them unconditionally. A mom who loves walking in to wake them up and see their smiling face. A mom who loves making a mess while making cookies. A mom who takes time for herself. A mom who tries again after a failed attempt. A mom who loves to cook for them. A mom who loves to make things for them. A mom who loves their father with all her heart. A mom who knows what it is like to suffer. A mom who has no doubt that God lives. A mom who isn't afraid to cry in front of them, and for that matter who isn't afraid to show her emotions. A mom who will always be there. A mom who will always kiss boo boos. A mom who will sing and dance with them. A mom who will not be afraid to talk about when they disappoint her. A mom who continues to try new things. A mom who is their biggest cheerleader. A mom who will always scare away the monsters. A mom who will always be the referee in fights. A mom who doesn't choose sides. A mom who doesn't play favorites. A mom who will teach them how to treat a women. A mom who will teach them the importance of service. A mom will teach them how to ask for help.<br />
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There are so many more things I want to teach these sweet boys of mine. One thing for sure, there is no such thing as trying to hard. What you put in is what you get. I am blessed and beyond grateful for my boys. Now it is my turn to teach them.<br />
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Be the best mommy you can be.<br />
<br />Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-31450791497018629422015-04-09T15:15:00.001-07:002015-04-09T15:15:18.220-07:00Our visit to HawaiiIt has been a month since our amazing trip to Hawaii. I figured it is probably time to write about it and share some pictures. We had an amazing 5 days on Maui. It was truly one of the most relaxing vacations I have ever been on.<br />
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This trip was the first time either of our boys had been on a airplane. I was so incredibly nervous about little man. He is very active. I was so concerned that he wasn't going to handle being in the seat for so long. I was also concerned about how him using the potty was going to go. But he did great. For the trip we got him a kids sized backpack. I filled that will tons of activities and snacks. In his bag he had his iPad and headphones, loaded with his favorite movies. He also had a coloring book, stickers, markers, a new Cars look and find book, toy cars and a new toy. He was so excited when he looked in his bag and could see all the fun activities I surprised him with. For squeaks I packed a few toys. An extra outfit. His favorite blanket and a nursing cover. He only fussed when he was hungry and even then was very short. Also any moms who travel with infants, I suggest baby wearing. It made it so much easier to get around the airport! Plus, if you wear them you don't have to take them off to get through security. They do have to swab your hand but it was so nice to not have to take him off!<br />
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I promise squeaks was loving being in the carrier.<br />
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How's that for a view? We pretty much lived out there.<br />
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Only a short walk to the beach. </div>
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So this was the lobby in our hotel. It was so amazing to walk into this. So beautiful. We actually spent a lot of time in the lobby because of how beautiful it was. It was so peaceful to just sit there and listen to the waterfall. Behind it was the pool.<br />
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Getting our feet in the ocean for the first time!<br />
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So our hotel had the best pools. They also had tubes for sale. So of course I got one for little man. It definitely came in handy.<br />
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It rained for one whole day without let up while we were there. So it was a very lazy day on our balcony. But it was so amazing.<br />
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Lots of virgin drinks were had. This is a lava flow so good!<br />
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He loved building castles. He and Ben got really good at making them.<br />
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He also became obsessed with the ocean.<br />
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Our cute little family of 4. Love that we had Grandma and Grandpa with us.<br />
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Day one we had an amazingly hard time getting him to play in the water. Day 4 we could not get this kid out of the water. He would have stayed all day if he could have. He had so much fun running in and out.<br />
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If you are ever in Maui you absolutely have to go to Star Noodle. OH my goodness you will not be disappointed. It was so worth it.<br />
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Making chairs in the sand. These guys of mine. They had a blast.<br />
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Who said pool food has to be simple. Oh man this was so good. So at our hotel you could forgo maid service and get a $5 voucher to use on food. So you better believe we did that. By the last day we $15 in vouchers. So we used them by the pool. Those nachos, uh, so amazing. I would go back just for those.<br />
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No trip would be complete without a family selfie.<br />
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May not have loved using it in the pool. But he definitely loved using it as a seat in our room.<br />
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Our hotel had strollers that you could use for free. Oh man so glad we found that out. It saved my back.<br />
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We were able to sneak away for a lovely dinner. One perk to having grandma and grandpa with us. It was so nice to sneak away and be together. We got to go with the group of franchise owners who were there. It was so much fun to visit, sip a pina colada and enjoy some adult time.<br />
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My little beach buddy.<br />
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Mommy's bracelet made a great toy.<br />
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So in the amazing lobby of our hotel they had coy fish! Every morning at 9 you could go down and feed them. So you better believe we totally fed them everyday after we found that out. Little man had so much fun throwing in the food and watching them attack it.<br />
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Everyone has asked us what we did while we were there. In all honesty we didn't DO a whole lot. But we ATE a whole lot. I may not have a lot of fun tips on what to do. But I can tell you where you should eat. This trip was so needed. I am so glad we got so many pictures this isn't even half of them! Hope you enjoyed looking at them as much as I enjoyed looking back on them.<br />
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Be the best mommy you can be!Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-67136161355407945202015-03-26T23:19:00.000-07:002015-03-26T23:19:03.740-07:00Why I choose to open up a shop.I have been asked countless times in the past few months why I decided to open up my own mommy shop. I have never really had a great answer, but I think I have finally landed on it. Sure, I think a lot of people think it's for the extra money, but in all honesty, I would do it all for free if I was able to. <div>
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I opened my shop because I love to sew. I am in no way the best. But over the past few months I have surprised myself with all that I have learned. I went from feeling in no way comfortable sewing anything without a pattern to making my own patterns and loving it. It has gotten to the point where if I see something I like my first thought is "How much would it cost if I made it?"</div>
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I have loved learning so many new techniques like the correct way to use a seam ripper. I had no idea I have been using it wrong! But let me tell you I had. I have actually learned what all the dials and knobs on my machine mean. I have also learned that sewing machines are not easy to take apart (They are even harder to put back together)! I have learned to keep my fingers away from the foot and needle. Boy, does it hurt if you are not paying attention!</div>
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I have learned about fabric. Which blends work for which projects. I have learned how to price items for sale. I have learned the hard way that you can not please everyone. I have learned that sometimes you need to ask for help. I have learned that my husband does know a thing or two about sewing. Shout out to my awesome sister-in-laws and mother-in-law who helped him learn!</div>
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I have learned that you can seam rip, sew, feed elastic, cut fabric and pin while holding a fussy baby. I have learned that nursing while your little one is in a carrier is possible (necessary if you need to head to the fabric store). I have learned countless employees names. I have learned to put myself out there and do things that are out of my comfort zone. I have learned way too many employees' names at the fabric store. I have learned how to truly master using coupons to get the most bang for your buck. I have learned that sometimes less is more. I have learned that there can be hurt feelings when you open a shop. I have learned that not everyone has nice things to say, but that everyone is free to feel the way they feel. I have learned that every mom deserves to have a say in their baby items, to have a say in exactly which fabric and print is used. I have learned that helping another mama out is more payment then you will ever need. I have learned that there are moms out there who you may not know personally but who will become some of your biggest supporters. </div>
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I have learned to ask the hard questions. I have learned that fabric will hide the tears you have shed on it. I have learned that the hum of the sewing machine will hide the sound of your sobs. I have learned that sometimes the best way to work through problems is to sit down and finish a project. </div>
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So if you haven't guessed the real answer to that question I will tell you: The real reason I opened up a shop is to learn about myself. To grow. To become a better mother and a better person. I have already learned so many amazing lessons. I know that each experience I have had has taught me how to be a better person. I know that it has given me a reason to be excited. I know it has given me something that is all my own. I know it has helped me do the one thing that has always been my goal: Helping other moms. </div>
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Be the best mommy you can be.</div>
Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-80004526514350734892014-12-16T01:34:00.001-08:002014-12-16T01:34:43.557-08:00Squeaks is here!<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>It has been two month since we welcomed our little squeaks. This post is way over due. I have been meaning to write it for awhile. But never got around to it. Now as I sit here wide awake it's time. <div><br></div><div>Beckett Darrell Phillips was born October 8 at 5:39 pm. He weighed in at 7 lbs 7 oz and 19 1/2 inches.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-eh4-BJR7Wh8/VI_8ZHhJ8bI/AAAAAAAABD8/Ol2AO3HV9F0/s640/blogger-image-276083580.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-eh4-BJR7Wh8/VI_8ZHhJ8bI/AAAAAAAABD8/Ol2AO3HV9F0/s640/blogger-image-276083580.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>Since I was scheduled for a repeat csection. That day was full of nerves. I really relished in my last day of it just being me and LM. We did a lot of snuggling. When the time came to take him to grandmas I had a very hard time leaving. Because I knew it would no longer just be he and I. But I was so excited for the new adventure we were embarking on. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TOAXrrjzze0/VI_8iTXqiBI/AAAAAAAABE0/cawCaUMlQq4/s640/blogger-image--830994121.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-TOAXrrjzze0/VI_8iTXqiBI/AAAAAAAABE0/cawCaUMlQq4/s640/blogger-image--830994121.jpg"></a></div>I am so glad I got one last picture with him. I will forever cherish the look of excitement. He knew it was time to get a brother.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-NIHe21pDZTo/VI_8q0oVFsI/AAAAAAAABFs/Dj6Tli1p90I/s640/blogger-image--567178376.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-NIHe21pDZTo/VI_8q0oVFsI/AAAAAAAABFs/Dj6Tli1p90I/s640/blogger-image--567178376.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>We arrived at the hospital an hour earlier then we were suppose to. Oops. I'll blame that on pregnancy brain. It gave us time for one last belly shot. Then time to calm my nerves. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7R9X6fKoE8Y/VI_8X9y83BI/AAAAAAAABD0/T5YPB5lCMuc/s640/blogger-image-499103709.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-7R9X6fKoE8Y/VI_8X9y83BI/AAAAAAAABD0/T5YPB5lCMuc/s640/blogger-image-499103709.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Once they took me back we had about two hours before my appointment time. This gave them time to get me dressed. Get my IV started. Then go over everything with me. My nerves really started to get to me and my blood pressure started to get really high. I started having contractions. Which really started to hurt. So it was a good thing I was at the hospital! They got my all hooked up and then it was just time to wait. They had the anesthesiologist come in and talk with me. I got even more nervous and had a very uncomfortable feeling. More on that later. Then we waited some more. It got to be 4:50 and I still had yet to see my doctor. Which made me nervous. They can't take you back to prep you till your doctor checks on you. But right on cue he walked through the door. I was instantly at peace. I would trust him no matter what was going on. He was an amazing doctor. He spoke with us and then told the nurse it was time. <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-glOACr24nv8/VI_8fjI5ZuI/AAAAAAAABEk/eSpKUoLruFI/s640/blogger-image--647634592.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-glOACr24nv8/VI_8fjI5ZuI/AAAAAAAABEk/eSpKUoLruFI/s640/blogger-image--647634592.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-dUyNWJ4l-EE/VI_8g6QV_PI/AAAAAAAABEs/HIAq89z3h1c/s640/blogger-image-859719906.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-dUyNWJ4l-EE/VI_8g6QV_PI/AAAAAAAABEs/HIAq89z3h1c/s640/blogger-image-859719906.jpg"></a></div> </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">The hospital underwent a complete remodel since I had LM. So the walk was very quick to the OR. Once inside I was greeted by a rush of cold air. My nerves really started to kick in. This was the moment I had been dreading my whole pregnancy. The spinal. With LM it was quick. First attempt and he was done. This was not the case. After 14 attempts, yes you read that right, I was finally numb. Each attempt he would hit bone. I had amazing nurses who tried to help me through it. They held me as I cried in pain. Reassured me that it was going to be ok. Told me I was doing everything I was asked of. It just wasn't going right. After the sixth attempt my doctor left the room. A half hour after starting I was finally numb. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-FEPpI-NuvEY/VI_8ju9HFhI/AAAAAAAABE8/tGsaQpi6L6s/s640/blogger-image--392318286.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-FEPpI-NuvEY/VI_8ju9HFhI/AAAAAAAABE8/tGsaQpi6L6s/s640/blogger-image--392318286.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">This time was different from LM. I felt as if my legs were asleep. Not numb but asleep. Which made me start to panic. Ben was not in the room yet. It was just me and the staff. They put the blue divider up and this is where things went from bad to worse for me. I immediately started to have a panic attack. I have never had one this bad before. I began thrashing on the table. Yelling I was "done". I didn't want to do it. I changed my mind. Finally Ben was able to start to calm me down. But my body was not done. I started to feel like I was going to throw up. Let's just say my body won. Then squeaks was out and I was able to relax. Looking at him for the first time calmed me down enough to get to the end of the surgery. They wrapped him up and handed him to Ben. He looked so much like LM. I was so in love again. Once I was done and moved over to the transport they handed me squeaks. It was amazing to get to hold him so quickly. With LM it was almost two hours before I got to hold him. Squeaks never really left my side. Which is what I needed. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-hpXYtpBhQUc/VI_8obd4C8I/AAAAAAAABFc/tgxiem_gdwg/s640/blogger-image-671937961.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-hpXYtpBhQUc/VI_8obd4C8I/AAAAAAAABFc/tgxiem_gdwg/s640/blogger-image-671937961.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-McNWlVDW8kI/VI_8eWznXkI/AAAAAAAABEc/sKQanButHRI/s640/blogger-image-258239194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-McNWlVDW8kI/VI_8eWznXkI/AAAAAAAABEc/sKQanButHRI/s640/blogger-image-258239194.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Once we made it to recovery they told me I would get to do skin to skin. Squeaks had other ideas. He was ready to eat. While I'm recovery her ate on both sides. For almost the entire time. Only stopping when it was time for his bath. Which he hated! I think all babies do. But once he was all cleaned up he was ready for more. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-7Fi95zOwgb4/VI_8aUIvnYI/AAAAAAAABEE/Iceh7lxyhUg/s640/blogger-image-698099760.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-7Fi95zOwgb4/VI_8aUIvnYI/AAAAAAAABEE/Iceh7lxyhUg/s640/blogger-image-698099760.jpg"></a></div><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Then it was time to move me to my room. I swear because of the remodel it took forever. They had to keep using different elevators because there wasn't one in use that went to where my room was. Once in my room it was time to transfer to my bed. I had yet to try and move my legs because with LM it took forever to get feeling back. They asked if I could use my arms to transfer myself to my bed. I felt great, so I said " Of course!". Well to be sure one of the nurses asked if I could move my feet. She had rested her hand on my legs. My legs started to move, so in my mind I thought she moved them. I thought there was no way I could already be able to move. Well I did. She laughed and said " I guess you can." To which I responded " wait that was me? Oh yay!" I completely took her by surprise. I don't think she had ever seen anyone so happy that they moved their legs. We all ended up in a laughing fit. Once we were finished they helped as I moved myself onto my bed. Got me cleaned up and settled. I started to have really bad hot flashes so they had to put cold towels on me to cool me down. Once my nurse felt comfortable that I was ok, LM and my parents were allowed back. </span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0iLiKSNHpPk/VI_8bxujmpI/AAAAAAAABEM/ch6vkmIweW8/s640/blogger-image--1590401190.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-0iLiKSNHpPk/VI_8bxujmpI/AAAAAAAABEM/ch6vkmIweW8/s640/blogger-image--1590401190.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-c0JeNwQSYj8/VI_8dF2KaDI/AAAAAAAABEU/dZZ7RceNm5Q/s640/blogger-image--785681694.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-c0JeNwQSYj8/VI_8dF2KaDI/AAAAAAAABEU/dZZ7RceNm5Q/s640/blogger-image--785681694.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">LM was so excited to see his brother that my parents got to the hospital sooner then expected. But that gave them time to talk with him about everything he was going to see. When the nurse gave the ok they headed up. I heard a knock at the door and LM entered. He instantly looked so big compared to the tiny newborn I was holding. He was so happy to see that I was ok. He then got to see his brother for the first time. He was very unsure, but not scared. Just uncertain. Cue his big brother gift. Before I had squeaks, LM began to really get into super heroes. So I decided to get him a cape. I'm preparation for getting a new brother I told him how he would have to be a super hero and help mommy with brother. So getting the cape just made it all real. He loved running around the room with it on. Then he gently climbed into bed with me so he could hold brother. He was very unsure. He was so gentle. We were able to get a few photos and then he was done. My parents held squeaks and then left. </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9PKOkgMW6Ks/VI_8WgyDBSI/AAAAAAAABDs/-4fceXJmg8Q/s640/blogger-image-2019890059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-9PKOkgMW6Ks/VI_8WgyDBSI/AAAAAAAABDs/-4fceXJmg8Q/s640/blogger-image-2019890059.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-KsL8QfW1-gw/VI_8sSBL57I/AAAAAAAABF0/ANovncFEC2A/s640/blogger-image-1373082133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-KsL8QfW1-gw/VI_8sSBL57I/AAAAAAAABF0/ANovncFEC2A/s640/blogger-image-1373082133.jpg"></a></div><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Squeaks got his nickname the first night. He would make these adorable little squeaks each time he would stretch. So his nickname was an easy one to come by. My hospital stay was pretty smooth. I was there the full length of time I could be after a c section. I made sure to get a milkshake with almost every meal. Superior dairy ice cream! They were so good. Ben was able to stay with me the entire time. Which was so helpful when I needed to get out of bed. We were able to watch a lot of movies together and just enjoy our little squeaks. LM came to visit at least two times a day. At least once a day he would go walk the halls with just Ben and I. My parents would hold squeaks. I personally thunk that made the transition so much easier for LM. Because from the beginning we made time for just him. We had so many loved ones visit which was nice. Because this time I wanted to talk to people. I so wanted to be social. </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-W8yI-eUWKGA/VI_8kpdHhBI/AAAAAAAABFE/GXgpEuWf-Cc/s640/blogger-image--762569687.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-W8yI-eUWKGA/VI_8kpdHhBI/AAAAAAAABFE/GXgpEuWf-Cc/s640/blogger-image--762569687.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aYnvVfk_cVI/VI_8l3mkxFI/AAAAAAAABFM/QU2TOLCsUI8/s640/blogger-image-1417431272.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-aYnvVfk_cVI/VI_8l3mkxFI/AAAAAAAABFM/QU2TOLCsUI8/s640/blogger-image-1417431272.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-mxmqrqNroQM/VI_8pvIuPsI/AAAAAAAABFk/aqX-PsgyYlA/s640/blogger-image-755114893.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-mxmqrqNroQM/VI_8pvIuPsI/AAAAAAAABFk/aqX-PsgyYlA/s640/blogger-image-755114893.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-M2GMfkc5C_A/VI_8nPQHK1I/AAAAAAAABFU/-AYjGpxi1mA/s640/blogger-image-1502392334.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-M2GMfkc5C_A/VI_8nPQHK1I/AAAAAAAABFU/-AYjGpxi1mA/s640/blogger-image-1502392334.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">I am so grateful that everything turned out like it did. I am so in love with my squeaks. My heart feels whole with him in my life. Our family feels complete. We all enjoy having him around so much. LM is completely in love with his brother. We are extremely happy.</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Be the best mommy you can be.</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-8335630848202578502014-09-15T13:59:00.001-07:002014-09-15T13:59:07.385-07:00Little mans 3rd birthday!A few weeks ago my sweet boy turned 3. So of course it was time for a party. He has been very into Legos. Especially since the Lego movie came out. So we decided on a Lego party. We ran into one slight problem. Even with the huge success of the Lego movie there were no decorations to be found anywhere. So that meant in order to give my LM a Lego party I had to make all of the decorations. Now being almost <span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">34 weeks pregnant I knew I was going not going to be able to do a lot. So we ordered an amazing cake from For Goodness Cakes. Find her on Facebook the cake turned out amazingly. </span><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-AkG_bWz7mS4/VBdTEECBc6I/AAAAAAAABCU/L1c2G6YH6og/s640/blogger-image-1093071223.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-AkG_bWz7mS4/VBdTEECBc6I/AAAAAAAABCU/L1c2G6YH6og/s640/blogger-image-1093071223.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Seriously so cute. It was delicious. Plus we had just enough for everyone with just a few extra pieces. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-q5yMXbt28IE/VBdTFWN77cI/AAAAAAAABCc/yrIlHNCypqI/s640/blogger-image-1894605496.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-q5yMXbt28IE/VBdTFWN77cI/AAAAAAAABCc/yrIlHNCypqI/s640/blogger-image-1894605496.jpg"></a></div><br></div>I made these adorable bean bags. I grabbed 3 pieces of felt in each of the colors. I cut the felt in half width wise. Then I cut those pieces in half. I was able to get 4 bags out of 2 pieces of felt. The 3rd piece I used for the circles. I hot glued the circles on. Then grabbed my sewing machine and stitched up 3 of the sides. Stuffed them with beans and then sewed up the finally size. They were so easy. Then we took boxes and cut holes and covered them in tissue paper. LM had fun throwing the bags in. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ONvWQN955mQ/VBdTGeLLEEI/AAAAAAAABCk/HstvD7cjAn0/s640/blogger-image--1884322871.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-ONvWQN955mQ/VBdTGeLLEEI/AAAAAAAABCk/HstvD7cjAn0/s640/blogger-image--1884322871.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">For the food we did and create your own sandwich station. I used the big blocks to make holders for the plates,napkins, and cups. Then we used one of the boxes for the bean bag game to hold cups full of the silver ware. It was such a fun touch.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-92NnARAnTto/VBdTA0mLmBI/AAAAAAAABB8/ZCK7NVGRcj4/s640/blogger-image-100119257.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-92NnARAnTto/VBdTA0mLmBI/AAAAAAAABB8/ZCK7NVGRcj4/s640/blogger-image-100119257.jpg"></a></div><br></div>I made this adorable banner. I used construction paper and a circle punch. I again just cut the paper in half width wise. LM helped me punch out all the circles. I used foam tape to kind of help the circles pop of the paper. It was so fun to do this with my LM.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-fsenvTi63VE/VBdTC_s6ppI/AAAAAAAABCM/LSU57LvAhTI/s640/blogger-image--1655510446.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-fsenvTi63VE/VBdTC_s6ppI/AAAAAAAABCM/LSU57LvAhTI/s640/blogger-image--1655510446.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Finally getting to sing to him. He thought his cake was amazing. He was ready to eat it before the party started. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I love you my LM. It has been amazing to watch you grow. I can't not wait to see you become a brother in just a matter of weeks. You will always be one of the best things that has ever happened to me.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-1fsNgoNQiOI/VBdTB3AK47I/AAAAAAAABCE/KVGlMTfVl5E/s640/blogger-image-85578353.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-1fsNgoNQiOI/VBdTB3AK47I/AAAAAAAABCE/KVGlMTfVl5E/s640/blogger-image-85578353.jpg"></a></div><br></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Be the best mommy you can be.</div><br></div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-65643637459111100952014-08-27T14:17:00.001-07:002014-08-27T14:17:43.116-07:00Preparations / family pictures.<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-t9D3BoUZqPw/U_5Kyoug7wI/AAAAAAAABBg/cd9ntUxZfcQ/s640/blogger-image--705228090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br></a></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-t9D3BoUZqPw/U_5Kyoug7wI/AAAAAAAABBg/cd9ntUxZfcQ/s640/blogger-image--705228090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br></a></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-t9D3BoUZqPw/U_5Kyoug7wI/AAAAAAAABBg/cd9ntUxZfcQ/s640/blogger-image--705228090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br></a></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-t9D3BoUZqPw/U_5Kyoug7wI/AAAAAAAABBg/cd9ntUxZfcQ/s640/blogger-image--705228090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br></a></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-t9D3BoUZqPw/U_5Kyoug7wI/AAAAAAAABBg/cd9ntUxZfcQ/s640/blogger-image--705228090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br></a></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-t9D3BoUZqPw/U_5Kyoug7wI/AAAAAAAABBg/cd9ntUxZfcQ/s640/blogger-image--705228090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br></a></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;">A few weeks ago we were able to have some maternity pictures done. It was so much fun because we had LM with us this time. It was so nice to get some pictures of the 3 of us before we add another little dude to our family. We have grown so much as a family in the past few months. LM is settling into his role as a big helper very well. He is getting so big I can not believe it. </div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-t9D3BoUZqPw/U_5Kyoug7wI/AAAAAAAABBg/cd9ntUxZfcQ/s640/blogger-image--705228090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-IzeKUdrIO8k/U_5K0KUuvqI/AAAAAAAABBo/sNKz5wS2zZk/s640/blogger-image-1143282245.jpg"></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;">The past few weeks I have had a lot of time to reflect about the changes that will shortly be taking place. Mostly because I am so big I am having a hard time moving around. I have reached the stage where I literally have to roll myself out of bed. My love has to help me out of seated positions and sometimes even the car. This stage just means that I am so close to the end. Which means soon this little dude will be snuggling up in my arms. We have just a couple weeks before his arrival. I am so excited.</div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-t9D3BoUZqPw/U_5Kyoug7wI/AAAAAAAABBg/cd9ntUxZfcQ/s640/blogger-image--705228090.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-t9D3BoUZqPw/U_5Kyoug7wI/AAAAAAAABBg/cd9ntUxZfcQ/s640/blogger-image--705228090.jpg"></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;">I think the thing I am most excited about is watching LM with his new brother. He is already so in love with his brother. He asks about him at least once a day. He is so ready to have him here. He loves going to the doctors with me. He calls him baby doctor. He gets so excited when I tell him it's time to go. He literally asks evey couple days to go. When he hears brothers heartbeat he gets so excited. His face absolutely lights up. </div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-HabZRrTuQL0/U_5KpycOBYI/AAAAAAAABAo/84BL_2M3CL0/s640/blogger-image--1032328227.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-HabZRrTuQL0/U_5KpycOBYI/AAAAAAAABAo/84BL_2M3CL0/s640/blogger-image--1032328227.jpg"></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;">He has been in major get ready mode. He watched a Daniel tiger episode where they got all the baby stuff ready. He wanted to do everything Daniel did. So we officially have the crib put together. We have the bedding on. All brothers clothes are washed and put away. Brothers car seat is all ready. His bassinet is set up in mommy's room. He is ready. He helped with each step and is so proud of himself for all he did. </div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-OfTcdiDVMcE/U_5KtsUZ59I/AAAAAAAABBA/lMWxXHAv9Vw/s640/blogger-image-533460765.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-EoAjakDu5lM/U_5KxSyc5PI/AAAAAAAABBY/o63jH-7YfbI/s640/blogger-image-1438363919.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-iafY94j-wiI/U_5KsHDaLBI/AAAAAAAABA4/a91mYl_IDi8/s640/blogger-image--1543271941.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-yLocGe0D4O4/U_5KouPTr3I/AAAAAAAABAg/wX-hhJVt7wY/s640/blogger-image--584732195.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9O08xccP7Kk/U_5KvPvohxI/AAAAAAAABBI/bdEFtGZpd44/s640/blogger-image--1601193289.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_231aeM1duc/U_5Kq-r1JSI/AAAAAAAABAw/8urz6ZGwEpQ/s640/blogger-image-409570079.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-_pAphCAQ2Sc/U_5KwVeCtcI/AAAAAAAABBQ/u-kAl5yoi3c/s640/blogger-image--377115810.jpg" imageanchor="1"><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-_pAphCAQ2Sc/U_5KwVeCtcI/AAAAAAAABBQ/u-kAl5yoi3c/s640/blogger-image--377115810.jpg"></span></a></div><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_231aeM1duc/U_5Kq-r1JSI/AAAAAAAABAw/8urz6ZGwEpQ/s640/blogger-image-409570079.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_231aeM1duc/U_5Kq-r1JSI/AAAAAAAABAw/8urz6ZGwEpQ/s640/blogger-image-409570079.jpg"></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;">Each time we have done something I make sure to explain to him that he once used these things but now he is the big brother. Which has really helped in getting him ready. I'm hoping I am preparing him to not be overly jealous when brother gets here. I have made sure each day to take time to do something special with just him. Even though I may be tired, and uncomfortable I make time for him. I am hoping that because I have been doing this he will understand when brother gets here that there will be times for just him. There will also be times when I need to take care of brother. I have been talking with him about how things will change. I know that it is not going to be smooth sailing. But I am hoping that I can help prepare him just a little bit.</div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9O08xccP7Kk/U_5KvPvohxI/AAAAAAAABBI/bdEFtGZpd44/s640/blogger-image--1601193289.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-9O08xccP7Kk/U_5KvPvohxI/AAAAAAAABBI/bdEFtGZpd44/s640/blogger-image--1601193289.jpg"></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-yLocGe0D4O4/U_5KouPTr3I/AAAAAAAABAg/wX-hhJVt7wY/s640/blogger-image--584732195.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-yLocGe0D4O4/U_5KouPTr3I/AAAAAAAABAg/wX-hhJVt7wY/s640/blogger-image--584732195.jpg"></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;">I am so in love with my husband. I have to take a moment to talk about him. He has been amazing. I am so excited to see him with little guy. He is already smitten. </div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-OfTcdiDVMcE/U_5KtsUZ59I/AAAAAAAABBA/lMWxXHAv9Vw/s640/blogger-image-533460765.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-EoAjakDu5lM/U_5KxSyc5PI/AAAAAAAABBY/o63jH-7YfbI/s640/blogger-image-1438363919.jpg" imageanchor="1"></a><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-iafY94j-wiI/U_5KsHDaLBI/AAAAAAAABA4/a91mYl_IDi8/s640/blogger-image--1543271941.jpg" imageanchor="1"><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-iafY94j-wiI/U_5KsHDaLBI/AAAAAAAABA4/a91mYl_IDi8/s640/blogger-image--1543271941.jpg"></span></a></div><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-EoAjakDu5lM/U_5KxSyc5PI/AAAAAAAABBY/o63jH-7YfbI/s640/blogger-image-1438363919.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-EoAjakDu5lM/U_5KxSyc5PI/AAAAAAAABBY/o63jH-7YfbI/s640/blogger-image-1438363919.jpg"></a></span></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;">I am so thankful for both of them. They are my life. My world. My happiness. I can not wait to be surrounded by boys. I will be so loved and protected. I have been blessed to receive two boys. I am tasked with raising incredible men. Incredible priesthood holders. I honestly can not wait.</div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;">Who is ready for little guys name reveal??</div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;">When I got pregnant we instantly settled on a girl name. But could not settle on a boy name. There were tons I loved there were tons my love loved. But for me I would like something for like a week and then not like it anymore. Finally at 14 weeks I found a name that I absolutely fell in love with. My love has not faded for it. Hearing LM say it to my tummy has just cemented the fact that it is the right name. It fits our family. </div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;">So his name is.......</div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; clear: both;"><br></div><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-OfTcdiDVMcE/U_5KtsUZ59I/AAAAAAAABBA/lMWxXHAv9Vw/s640/blogger-image-533460765.jpg" imageanchor="1"><span style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-OfTcdiDVMcE/U_5KtsUZ59I/AAAAAAAABBA/lMWxXHAv9Vw/s640/blogger-image-533460765.jpg"></span></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">We can not wait till October to meet him. We are counting down the weeks. We are preparing everyday. We are all ready.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Be the best mommy you can be.</div><br></div><br></div><br></div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-68960713906743782852014-08-20T00:17:00.001-07:002014-08-20T00:17:30.324-07:00Can I be honest? <div>
* Disclamer: This post is extremely honest. If you do not want to read about my fears please skip this post. </div>
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Tonight my mind is racing. There are so many exciting things that are happening shortly. <div>
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First: My sweet little man (LM) is going to be turning 3. When did he get so big? When did he stop being my sweet little baby? Will he still love to cuddle with me on the couch in the morning? Or will those soon be distant memories? I can't believe it has been 3 years since he was born. He has turned into such a little man. With his likes and dislikes that he is not afraid to share. He has such a sweet personality. </div>
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Second: My little brother is getting married. Thats right married. It is mind blowing that he is old enough. It has been amazing to see him grow. He has found himself a good one. She is such a sweetheart and I look forward to many more years together with her. Marriage is a big step and I am so proud of my little brother. I can not wait to see them all in white.</div>
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Third: In all honesty probably the biggest. Baby boy will be here. Am I really in single digits? I have 8 weeks until his due date. But since he will be delivered c-section that number is smaller. Which makes me even more nervous. Shortly we will no longer be a family of 3. But a family of 4. </div>
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Can I be completely honest? That last one is the one that has me up at night. Not only because this one is determined to break a rib. But because I am TERRIFIED! Absolutely terrified. I know we prayed about it and that it is the right time. But I am so worried I am going to fail at being a mother to 2 boys. I know I have made it this far with LM and he has turned out amazing. But can I really be a mom to 2? Do I have what it takes to have a newborn and a toddler? </div>
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Am I going to fail? Am I already failing? </div>
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This pregnancy has taken literally everything out of me. It is all I can do at times to make LM breakfast and lunch before having to lay down. I am always exhausted and totally grouchy at moments I wish I wasn't. I honestly feel like I have already failed him as a mom. Because I have lost my temper over silly things more times then I wish to admit. I was never like this before. Is it because he is at a difficult age? Or is it because I really am not meant to be a great mom to 2 kids? Sure down the road I may look at this post and wonder how I ever thought that. But I am so worried. I love my LM more than anything. I love this little dude more than anything. But I feel as though I have already let them both down. That I have lost some part of the bond LM and I have shared because I have been so hormonal and lost my temper. </div>
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I am so scared. In a way it feels better to get it all out on my blog. Because then it is not just living in my head. But how do I shake this fear? I always start the day feeling that it is going to be better but most times it ends with me feeling the same way. Like I am failing at least one of the 3 boys I love so much. One of them is not even here yet and I feel that way. I don't expect everything to be better over night. I want so desperately to be an amazing mom of 2. </div>
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Am I just hormonal and worried over nothing? In all honesty that is probably what it is. But how do I forget the tears I have caused for no good reason. I am so worried that when this little dude gets here my sweet LM will no longer want me. I love him so much and the past couple of weeks have not been the best. </div>
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I want my boys to have the best relationship they can. Does LM already resent him because of how I have been acting? Is he going to feel like he isn't important anymore once this little dude comes? Is LM really ready for all this? Will he still love me once little dude gets here?</div>
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I have been so worried this entire pregnancy that LM would feel less important once little dude got here. So I have been trying to help him see how great he is. That he is an amazing helper. How big he is. How proud of him I am. We have shared some amazing moments over the past couple months. But is all that diminished by the times I have lost my temper. Sure I always go back and make sure I apologize. Because it is not his fault that I have lost my temper. Sometimes I have over reacted. It is not everyday but it has happened enough that it makes me worry. </div>
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I have always wanted to be a mom. Ever since I can remember I would play house. There always had to be babies. I have wanted this since I was little. Am I living up to what my LM needs? Am I doing enough?</div>
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I know this will be over shortly but how do I get over the guilt I feel? Do other moms feel like this or is it just me? </div>
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This is the most honest I have ever been on this blog. I hope I do not sound terrible. But this is a huge life change. I needed to get it out. Because maybe I am the only mom who feels this way. Or maybe just maybe another mom has felt this way and can give me words of advice and comfort. Or maybe just maybe a mom may be feeling the same way and this may help her feel like she isn't alone. I don't know the reason but I know I was suppose to write this post. I always feel lead to write about the things that are important to either me or someone else. </div>
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Please remember I am trying my best. Remember I am just human. All things I think I needed to read for myself. Even if I had to share some tough feelings.</div>
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Im trying to be the best mommy I can be.</div>
Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-16060266316817477972014-07-25T15:01:00.001-07:002014-07-25T15:01:51.383-07:00It's ok to pamper yourself.<div><br></div>So this past month I have gone into like super baby prep mode. I am officially in my 3rd trimester. Holy cow am I really almost there. My body definitely feels like it. I can't believe how close we are getting. This time we are much more prepared. I have been busy making nursing covers, getting a bassinet, the crib sheet. We have a nice stock pile of diapers and wipes. I think that this has been the greatest thing I have done this time. Stocking up on diapers. But more on that in another post. <div><br></div><div>Today I want to talk about pampering yourself. I have a post about taking time for yourself. But this time I want to specifically talk about doing things to make yourself feel like a women. After I had my son I definitely put myself on the back burner. I mean I took care of myself but not like I used to. I used to always have my nails done. Have my hair colored. Go shopping. Get massages. Have super nice makeup. Well after I had my son I wanted to spend all my extra money on him. Because let's face it there are tons of cute baby stuff. So I started to do less and less for myself. I was more than ok with that. Because me wasting all that money was not worth it. </div><div><br></div><div>A few months ago, I started to realize that I completely lost myself. The woman I once was had completely disappeared. I had a long talk with my love about how I was feeling. How I felt that all that was left of me was the mommy. Now I absolutely love being a mommy. There is nothing I would rather do. But I think it is important to still feel like a woman. So I set out to start to take time to pamper myself. </div><div><br></div><div>First thing on the list: highlights. I have been wanting to change my hair for a while. But I didn't want to cut it because I have been working so hard on growing it out. So highlights were the perfect answer. They are subtle enough that they look natural and it has added some depth to my hair. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-fC5JC7GHl3Y/U9LTxNZVq3I/AAAAAAAAA_w/M8i_P-st4bY/s640/blogger-image--2131510877.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-fC5JC7GHl3Y/U9LTxNZVq3I/AAAAAAAAA_w/M8i_P-st4bY/s640/blogger-image--2131510877.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>28 weeks! </div><div> </div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Second nails: I am the type of girl that loves to have my nails painted all the time. But I hate when I paint them and the next day they are chipped. Then I found my new favorite nail polish. It is Sally Hansen miracle gel. You apply two coats of the color and then one coat of the top coat. There is something in the top coat that makes it cure in natural light. Let me tell you it is amazing. It's been on for almost a week and still looks amazing. You can purchase the set for 14.99. They also have a variety of colors that are 7.99. Totally worth the money for how much I will use it. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-CAHFhlyJM0U/U9LTyYl10GI/AAAAAAAAA_4/dqp9V6ycVrY/s640/blogger-image--1944733952.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-CAHFhlyJM0U/U9LTyYl10GI/AAAAAAAAA_4/dqp9V6ycVrY/s640/blogger-image--1944733952.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3opgWMUvcu4/U9LTzS9R4WI/AAAAAAAABAA/_vQuXNrZSl0/s640/blogger-image-658690718.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3opgWMUvcu4/U9LTzS9R4WI/AAAAAAAABAA/_vQuXNrZSl0/s640/blogger-image-658690718.jpg"></a></div> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Lastly a massage. When my love where first married we went in every month and got massages at massage envy. It was heaven. I have been having a lot of sciatic pain. My left leg starts to hurt so much that I can't put any weight on it and end up skipping on my right leg. Plus pregnancy is hard on your body. So it was suggested that I get a prenatal massage. Let me tell you it was totally worth it. My body felt so much better afterwards. I was also able to fall asleep so much easier. Sleep has been hard this time. So it was worth every pennie.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Each woman feels pampered in different ways. I have talked to moms who say to pamper themselves they buy a new bubble bath or shampoo. However you feel pampered make sure you do it a regular basis. It is amazing how much better about yourself you will feel. Do whatever makes you feel beautiful. Rememeber you are not just a mommy you are also a beautiful woman! Let it shine! being they best mommy you can be starts with being the best you that you can be.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Be the best mommy you can be.</div></span></div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-57447961397686584042014-06-23T14:11:00.001-07:002014-06-23T14:11:04.681-07:00My feelings on the phrase "We are pregnant."So I am very addicted to Pinterest. I could absolutely spend every waking moment on it. There are so many things to explore. So many new crafts, or recipes to explore. But there are also times I am on there and I just have to shake my head. I know we are all entitled to our own opinions. We have freedom of speech and I never want to take that away from anyone. But with that said I feel as though there is a lack of sensitivity. That if you don't feel a certain way, you must be crazy. Which honestly drives me absolutely bonkers. <div><br></div><div>So why am I writing about this. Well maybe in all honesty I might be a little bit emotional in the way I feel. I mean I am a lot more irritable then normal. But I saw something the other day that just made my heart hurt. I felt the need to write about the way I feel. </div><div><br></div><div>As I was on the kids board on Pinterest the other day I came across a certain pin. It was a link to a blog. My interest was peaked so I decided to take a look. I absoultelt love mommy blogs. Part of why I write my own. So I started to read. This blog was talking all about how she hated the phrase " we are pregnant.". I honestly do not have a problem with this phrase. But she did. A major one. She went on to talk about how terrible it is to say that. Especially when coming from your loved one. Because though they had a part of making this wonderful miracle they did not understand what being pregnant was like. They didn't have to watch their body change. They didn't have to give birth. They didn't have to deal with all the cravings. They didn't have to have blood work done. They didn't have to nurse the newborn. I started reading it with an open mind. Knowing she probably really needed to vent. But as I continued reading my heart broke. Not for her but for her loved one. </div><div><br></div><div>Pregnancy is not easy for everyone. Believe me I get that. But you are not the only person going through your pregnancy. You and your loved one are. Whether that be a husband or boyfriend. You are both in it together. If you both choose to be. Though they do not have to go through the physical things a woman does they still go through your pregnancy with you. They help you more then you realize at times. Don't take away their excitement by telling them they aren't the one who's pregnant. Because though that is true, they are the one who will be your biggest supporter. Complaining about how you have to go through everything does not make for a good relationship. Actually, it tears your relationship apart. It is a huge life change. No matter if it's you first, second or third child. It is a time to strengthen your relationship. Because you will have so many times throughout the nine months to lean on each other. To be there. To cheer on your loved one. It reality the phrase " we are pregnant" is so very true. Because you are both in for a huge life change. You will never be the same. Because together you have created something so perfect. You will not believe the love you feel for your loved one when you watch him hold your child for the first time.</div><div><br></div><div>I remember that moment so clearly. Because of my c-section my husband was the first to hold our son. I remember being wheeled back into my room. I had yet to see little man for more than 10 seconds. I clearly remember my hubby walking over to me and saying how perfect he was. He was glowing with excitement. Tears in his eyes as he told me all about the first things little man had done. How he grabbed on to my loves finger so tightly and wouldn't let go. As I began to wake up more I was allowed to hold little man. Watching my love turn around and bring him to me seemed as though it happened in slow motion. He had a huge smile that stretched from ear to ear. He couldn't take his eyes off of our sweet little man. He we as one proud father. As he handed him to me he was so gentle. Quietly whispering here is your mommy. I was in love with him from that moment. But not only him I was so in love with my husband. Seeing him become a father was one of the greatest moments of my life. Seeing how much he loves our little man melts my heart. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-23r_PZosV6c/U6iX5Vag1WI/AAAAAAAAA_U/gNJX06s7wYY/s640/blogger-image--845649306.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-23r_PZosV6c/U6iX5Vag1WI/AAAAAAAAA_U/gNJX06s7wYY/s640/blogger-image--845649306.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">We both survived being pregnant. I can not even count the amount of time I has him run to 7eleven to pick up hostess goodies. But honestly it was a lot because one of the workers knew us by the end. He didn't have to go through the physical, but he did have to go through a lot. He had to deal with me complaining about how much my body hurt. He had to deal with cravings. He had to deal with crying and yelling. He had to deal with my hating how nothing fit right. How huge I got. He helped with nighttime feelings by changing little mans diaper. He in some way had to deal with every part of my pregnancy. He was my rock. He is my rock. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Being pregnant a second time brings back all those memories. It also brings a lot of the same things. I still crave things and make him run out. Even if it's 11:30. He still goes. Because we are in this together. I would not want to go through this with anyone else but him. We are pregnant, because together we made the decision to grow our family. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I can understand that some people may not like the phrase. Hate it or love it. It is your choice. Use it or don't. But never use it as a way to tear down your loved one. Because they are going through this journey with you.</span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Be the best mommy you can be.</font></div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-18181678748639394332014-06-10T14:22:00.001-07:002014-06-10T14:22:57.470-07:00It is ok to ask for help.I am not one to ask for help. I'm sure we could all say that about ourselves. But I am the queen of not asking for help. I will literally exhaust myself trying to do everything that needs to be done. If you ask my husband he will tell you that we usually have the same conversation over and over. <div>"Why didn't you ask for help?"</div><div>"I didn't want to. I thought I could handle it."</div><div><br></div><div>Now this usually is done in tears. Because I have usually pushed my body to far. I am usually laying in a ball on the floor. Because my body seriously has no strength left. It is a great sight. I'm sure my husband is laughing at me in his head. I know I would be. I have always been this way. I am terrible at asking for help. But lately I have really been realizing that l need to ask for help. One amazing thing is that little man is at the stage where he wants to help with everything. He will get a pull up, throw it away, put his plate and cup away. He also loves to help me sweep and mop. </div><div><br></div><div>Lately, he has really been in a helping mood. The other day I sat down with a huge basket of laundry to fold. I began folding, when suddenly little man asked if he could help. He started to pull shirts out and shake them. Then try and fold them. I will honestly say the first time he did it I was a little frustrated. It added an extra step and I was trying to hurry. Then I saw the look on his face as he did it. He was so proud of himself. He was helping mommy. He was making things easier for me. As I sat there and watched him I realized just how important help is. It made me realize we all need help. We also all want to help those we care about. </div><div><br></div><div>I have so many around me who are so willing to help in whatever way they can. I am so blessed with amazing friends and family. I am not always the quickest to accept help, but I realize we all need the chance to help those we love. </div><div><br></div><div>Be the best mommy you can be.</div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-71535626547245945002014-06-02T23:28:00.001-07:002014-06-02T23:28:48.475-07:00It's a boy!When we went in to find out what gender little man was, we brought my mom along. We were all so excited in the room. Especially my mom, she was so excited to be a part of it. To see her grandson on the ultrasound she was oozing with pride. It was a great moment. This time around we wanted it to be just our small family. But it was the day before my moms birthday so we had a great idea for a reveal. After I little man I knew the next time around I wanted to do a fun reveal. We had lots of ideas. Fun cake reveals, a reveal party, a reveal photoshoot and a fun gift opening. So since it was the day before my moms birthday we wrapped an outfit. My family had no idea we were going in that day. They knew it was going to be soon but we completely surprised them all. <div><br></div><div>I started out by making a birthday card for my mom.</div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-atmU71XsLY0/U41rHltQkSI/AAAAAAAAA-w/I5Cv6fTcNGQ/s640/blogger-image-2034949668.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-atmU71XsLY0/U41rHltQkSI/AAAAAAAAA-w/I5Cv6fTcNGQ/s640/blogger-image-2034949668.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-hrWRVTF0Kpk/U41rGuhaQnI/AAAAAAAAA-o/JnZ2WPPo7fc/s640/blogger-image--1223016755.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-hrWRVTF0Kpk/U41rGuhaQnI/AAAAAAAAA-o/JnZ2WPPo7fc/s640/blogger-image--1223016755.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Then we went to the appointment and found out. After I went to target and picked out an outfit to wrap.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-B854_XdMCuQ/U41rFOi0cTI/AAAAAAAAA-g/HlFB9ZGxkco/s640/blogger-image-1489109307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-B854_XdMCuQ/U41rFOi0cTI/AAAAAAAAA-g/HlFB9ZGxkco/s640/blogger-image-1489109307.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Then later that night we went to my parents and gave the gift to my mom. Thankfully all my family was there. Then of course we called all the grandparents, and great grandparents. Of course they were all excited.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">I can honestly say I am so excited to have two boys. I am most excited to see little man have a brother. It has been so adorable to see him getting excited for baby brother. He has helped pick out outfits. We have talked about how we will get to snuggle him in a couple months. How soon he will have a brother to play cars and trains with. He is getting more and more excited and loves to talk to my tummy. It is so adorable.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">When we went for this ultrasound I totally thought it was a girl. But the second she put the wand on my stomach and saw that it was no girl. The tech was like "oh that's not the cord.". I am so excited. I have done the baby boy thing. We have all the clothes we could need, except for a couple things. But we are a lot more prepared then if it was a girl. I can not wait to snuggle this cute little boy. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Also, can I just say feeling him move is weird. It's been 2 1/2 years since I was pregnant. It is crazy. Sometimes it catches me off guard. But I love it. It's just weird. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Remember having a baby is amazing. It is also stressful. Always do what you feel comfortable with. Always. You don't ever want to regret not doing something or doing something. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Be the best mommy you can be.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-63900507301992428372014-05-29T22:31:00.001-07:002014-05-29T22:31:52.253-07:00Disneyland wrap up<div><br></div>So about a week ago we were in Disneyland. Little man had an absolute blast. He loved every minute. I think I have created a monster. Because in all honestly he would much rather be in Disneyland over any other place he could be. This was our last trip with our annual passes before they expired. Also, our last trip for a while. So we made sure little man had as much fun as possible. Now I will say having been to Disneyland a million times, ok maybe not a million, but quite a few times I have many different tricks we use. This time being pregnant was so much different. You get tired a lot faster. I sat a lot. Also, you can basically only go on kids rides. Which honestly I was ok with. Because that meant I got to enjoy more time with little man. So as I do a wrap of this trip I am going to throw in a couple little tricks we have always used. <div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>So fun little tid bit, if you have the Disney rewards visa debit card or credit card there is a picture experience just for you. It is in California adventure. Over by the monsters inc ride. Here you get to take a picture with a character. You also walk away with a free 5x7 of the experience. You can go as many times as you like. They usually have 2 characters that rotate every 30 minutes. It goes from 10:30-1:30. While we were there it was Minnie and Stich. You can have as many people as you want in the photo. A great free keepsake. I love free.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-zuNFiyxfIyM/U4gXl6-wpSI/AAAAAAAAA9M/8xW8b1_Oq0w/s640/blogger-image-2079671660.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-zuNFiyxfIyM/U4gXl6-wpSI/AAAAAAAAA9M/8xW8b1_Oq0w/s640/blogger-image-2079671660.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div>The train is not only a great way to get around but, it is also a fun ride. It is sure to make any boy happy as you can see from little mans face.</div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-NJ3xY5Rjk3E/U4gXo3_ImMI/AAAAAAAAA9c/BHPUs5Ad1k0/s640/blogger-image--1400089264.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-NJ3xY5Rjk3E/U4gXo3_ImMI/AAAAAAAAA9c/BHPUs5Ad1k0/s640/blogger-image--1400089264.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4PSu-DNpXoA/U4gXsF1CsAI/AAAAAAAAA90/vC7DTVKQ-2M/s640/blogger-image-1492432884.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-4PSu-DNpXoA/U4gXsF1CsAI/AAAAAAAAA90/vC7DTVKQ-2M/s640/blogger-image-1492432884.jpg"></a></div>Naptime can be handled one of two ways. Leave and go back to the hotel. Or do what we do. I brought a very lightweight sheet, and our stroller that reclines. When it came time for nap I found a spot I could sit with him. He had been up since 7 so it wasn't much of a fight. Drap the sheet over the stroller and it is now dark enough to keep him asleep.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-y9ImOZ0vn_k/U4gXncV7m6I/AAAAAAAAA9U/XaoV6fBmE7o/s640/blogger-image-1752424000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-y9ImOZ0vn_k/U4gXncV7m6I/AAAAAAAAA9U/XaoV6fBmE7o/s640/blogger-image-1752424000.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Mickey and the magical map show. Very worth it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-rcxMJgE-oQY/U4gXqxFFqUI/AAAAAAAAA9s/n-Apw4U00XE/s640/blogger-image--146823287.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-rcxMJgE-oQY/U4gXqxFFqUI/AAAAAAAAA9s/n-Apw4U00XE/s640/blogger-image--146823287.jpg"></a></div>Also worth it the look on his face when he got what he wanted. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-R_TkFbMaozY/U4gXu4GgIkI/AAAAAAAAA-E/q71aX6MU9vU/s640/blogger-image--150064139.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-R_TkFbMaozY/U4gXu4GgIkI/AAAAAAAAA-E/q71aX6MU9vU/s640/blogger-image--150064139.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NexDuZeAvmM/U4gXtA6COiI/AAAAAAAAA98/dd2dPMPlrRk/s640/blogger-image--473671970.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-NexDuZeAvmM/U4gXtA6COiI/AAAAAAAAA98/dd2dPMPlrRk/s640/blogger-image--473671970.jpg"></a></div>Buzz light year, he loved it. I loved the snuggles. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-tVJoOO6e4n8/U4gXxoD7hvI/AAAAAAAAA-M/OpDpCy1h20U/s640/blogger-image-31759419.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-tVJoOO6e4n8/U4gXxoD7hvI/AAAAAAAAA-M/OpDpCy1h20U/s640/blogger-image-31759419.jpg"></a></div>The family couldn't have done it without them helping in carrying and pushing the stroller. </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-k2FiVl8qwQI/U4gXp7bK3OI/AAAAAAAAA9k/yzbgLrStvMU/s640/blogger-image--200079833.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-k2FiVl8qwQI/U4gXp7bK3OI/AAAAAAAAA9k/yzbgLrStvMU/s640/blogger-image--200079833.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div>A happy boy in cars land. </div><div><br></div><div>Tips:</div><div><br></div><div>1) Food/snacks. We always pack a ton of snacks. From granola bars, trail mix, fruit snacks, even candy. That way we always have something to hold us over. Food can be pretty expensive so this can help cut down on the price. Because you are always hungry from all the walking and waiting. Snacks are especially helpful if you have a small child. Little man last time we went was so worried about missing out on something that snacks were really the only way he ate. Also, you can and should pack a lunch. I like I said food is expensive. This time we packed pb&js, chips and applesauce. A lot cheaper than 40 bucks for a family of 3 for lunch. Disneyland does not have a problem with you bringing in food. So do it. Even packing just one meal will help save money.</div><div><br></div><div>2) Water. You have a couple of options. You can bring your own. You can bring a reusable water bottle they have tons of water fountains. You can also get a free cup of ice water from any restaurant. This is what got me through this time with being pregnant. Whenever we ate even if we got a soda or juice I still asked for a cup of water. The ones they give you are small 8oz ones but you can ask them to give you a bigger one without any trouble. Use this. Because one water bottle from them runs about 3.00. </div><div><br></div><div>3) Get there early. The park when it first opens is pretty slow. Unless of course it is the summer. Usually though by 10 it's start to fill up. By noon it is usually about as busy as it is going to get. So if you have something you are dying to do get there early. </div><div><br></div><div>4) Shows are the way to go. Disneyland is amazing with their parades and shows there is always something to watch. We always show up at least 45 minutes early. For parades about an hour. For fantasmic 2-3 hours. Anything you will be sitting for you should plan on getting there early. It was interesting to see just how quickly the sitting for fantasmic filled up. By about 7:30 there were no sitting spots left. That show doesn't start until 9. So you can see you want to get there early. </div><div><br></div><div>5) Parade and show times are the best time for rides. If you didn't get to the park early these times will be the best time to ride things. Fantasmic, any parade and the fireworks draw big crowds. Meaning the wait times go way down. Do plan on having a hard time getting to the area but once there your wait will be a lot shorter.</div><div><br></div><div>We had a blast. It is so important to have good memories. This is a great memory for all of us. Remember to have fun and don't stress. </div><div><br></div><div>Be the best mommy you can be.</div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-51777327058996325822014-05-14T13:36:00.001-07:002014-05-14T13:46:26.504-07:00Pregnancy hormones.My sweet husband has had to put up with a lot lately. From some normal pregnancy symptoms to some pretty scary ones. He has been my rock. Always willing to lend a hand. Always there to calm me down. He is has made all the meltdowns easier to bear. <div><br></div><div>Speaking of which can we talk about pregnancy hormones. Oh my goodness the past few weeks I have cried at the drop of the hat. Not just your few tears here and there. But full on uncomfortable sobs. It isn't pretty. It also doesn't take much to reduce me to tears right now. It could be a commercial, or a tv show. Heck the other day I cried because I couldn't figure out what I wanted to eat. I was so not prepared for this. I know I got emotional with little man, but I do not remember being this emotional. The kind that you can't hold back no matter how hard you try. It is terrible. </div><div><br></div><div>But what I have loved is the fact that my husband is so supportive. He doesn't look at me like I'm crazy. He is there for me. Even if that means just sitting next to me and letting me cry it out. He is also very good at making sure my little man gives me lots of loves. With this roller coaster of emotions I have been on it has been a great opportunity for him to learn emotions. He knows when mommy is sad. When mommy is happy. Also sadly when mommy is mad. He also knows what will always make my mood change. Sweet hugs and kisses from him. I am so blessed that both of them can help me get through these crazy pregnancy emotions. </div><div><br></div><div>The other day we watched a studio c sketch, it seriously made me feel a little better. You can watch it here.<a href="http://youtu.be/FMU7UVFDqO0" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">http://youtu.be/FMU7UVFDqO0</a> They did a sketch on how pregnant woman have the power.<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"> Pregnancy is crazy! You honestly have no control over your emotions and at times you feel a little crazy. I try my hardest to not get upset but sometimes you just have to give into the hormones. </span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><br></span></div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-z3jjTOzpsUQ/U3PWIBA_8HI/AAAAAAAAA88/ob-4k6r7dG8/s640/blogger-image-1955202033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-z3jjTOzpsUQ/U3PWIBA_8HI/AAAAAAAAA88/ob-4k6r7dG8/s640/blogger-image-1955202033.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">At times I want to buy this shirt for my husband. But he has been amazingly understanding. I can't thank him enough for being there for me. But I know this is only temporary. I know that in the end it is all worth it. Those simple statements make it a lot easier to hadle all the emotions.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Be the best mommy you can be.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></span></div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-85636940044782521222014-05-09T13:50:00.001-07:002014-05-09T13:50:43.696-07:00What I want.With Mother's Day being this weekend it has made me think a lot about the kind of mother I am. I have been given the most precious gift. My son. Plus, another baby on the way. There are times when I feel inadequate. I feel like I could never teach him all he needs to know. That I'm not giving him all he needs. Which as a mother can be one of your biggest fears. In the pat few weeks I have seen him grow into a young boy. No longer the baby I rocked to sleep. He is independent. He knows how to ask for things. He can figure out how to fix something. He is no longer the little baby I did everything for. I am ok with that. I have raised an amazing young boy. <div><br></div><div>There are moments with him that to me are the "pay off" moments. These are the moments that take my breath away. That make me feel like all the hardwork I am putting in is worth it. They are moments that he does something that I didn't think he realized the importance of. </div><div><br></div><div>A few weeks ago Ben was out of town for business. I had mutual so I took little man with me. He sat and played quietly with me, until one of the big boys came over to play with him. He then played and ran around with him the rest of the activity. When it came time to say the closing prayers he was at the opposite side of the room. I looked over to see he had knelt down and folded his arms for prayer. He sat there quietly through the whole thing, and gently said "amen" at the end. This was one of my moments that took my breath away. I immediately started to cry. To me that was proof that he was listening and learning. Even when I thought my efforts at having a nice family prayer were so difficult. He amazed me by knowing what to do, even without be asked. </div><div><br></div><div>Another one of these moments came just a few nights ago. I was laying on the couch and he brought me my water. So using that as a teaching moment, I said "thank you so much for thinking of me". To which he responded "it was my pleasure." I have no idea where he learned that from, but it was so adorable in his toddler voice. I just picked him up and gave him a big hug and kiss. It proved to me that even though I feel at times like I am not doing all I should, I am doing enough. </div><div><br></div><div>I have been blessed with an amazingly sweet, caring, and polite young man. He is always willing to help. He is always learning. Even when I think there is no way he could, he does. Because even though I may feel like I am failing, he shows me that I am doing enough with his actions.</div><div><br></div><div>He is going to be the best big brother. I can not wait to see how much he loves his little sibling. Though I am nervous I will fail him when this new one comes a long I know I have given him the best parts of me I have to offer. </div><div><br></div><div>As Mother's Day was approaching I of course thought of what I wanted as a gift. Then a thought entered my mind, which made me rethink all that I wanted. I no longer want a gift. I have been given two of the greatest gifts I could have ever asked for, my children. I will be spending my Mother's Day feeling one move around inside me, and one snuggling me on the couch. "I already have more than I deserve. I have a life, that's good." I have one perfect son. One perfect husband. One perfect baby to me. To me I am so blessed I could not ask for anything that would make me happier than them. </div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MLIeWm0_AKM/U20_oY9HyHI/AAAAAAAAA8o/sukKHkhaWTk/s640/blogger-image-1578672687.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-MLIeWm0_AKM/U20_oY9HyHI/AAAAAAAAA8o/sukKHkhaWTk/s640/blogger-image-1578672687.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div> </div><div><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Happy Mother's Day to all you mommies out there. Hug your children extra tight. You have been given an amazing blessing. Know that you are doing enough.</span></div><div><br></div><div>Be the best mommy you can be.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-13247960055946306342014-05-06T14:57:00.001-07:002014-05-06T14:57:23.171-07:00Have you laughed today?I have been a little MIA lately. As most of you know I am pregnant with our second child. Little man is so excited. This has been a very exhausting and sick couple of weeks. I had no morning sickness with little man. This one is a different story. But more on that later. <div><br></div><div>Today I want to talk about the power of laughter. This morning as I was making breakfast for little man I got a little preoccupied. I didn't really pay attention to what time I put on the microwave. I went to grab the milk to get that for little man to find that the gallon we had went sour. So I started to dump it out and grab the new gallon. At this point little man started yelling mommy! The microwave was leaking out smoke. I immediately jumped to open the microwave door. Placed the plate under the running water, and ran to open the sliding glass door and window. All while holding little man who was choking on the smoke. I calmed him down and handed him his milk. Then I went to grab the plate of now black pancakes. I began to pick up the pancakes to only discover that they had melted pancake sized holes into the plate. I tossed the now ruined plate into the garbage and began to make new pancakes. What is the point of this story? I could have chosen to either yell and scream and be upset. Or chosen to laugh. I chose to laugh. Because seriously how ridiculous is it that I burnt microwave pancakes. I am not embarrassed at all. Because to me this was a teaching opportunity for my son. So many times we are so quick to be angry. What would happen if we laughed at every mistake we make? </div><div><br></div><div>I make it a point to laugh daily at one mistake I make each day. We chose how to react. Laughter is a much better option to tearing ourselves down. This choice will not always be easy, there are still times when anger is my first reaction. But we should laugh. It is good for the soul. I believe it also shows our kids that it is ok to laugh when we make a mistake. Isn't that the whole point? I challenge each and every one of you to laugh daily. It will be amazing what happens if you do. </div><div><br></div><div>If laughing at your mistakes isn't you thing, that is totally fine. But atleast find something to laugh at each day. Even if it's YouTube videos. Or making silly faces with your kids in the mirror. </div><div><br></div><div>Be the best mommy you can be.</div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-26685923711784115472014-04-03T14:25:00.001-07:002014-04-03T14:25:56.465-07:00ThankfulMy heart is so full of gratitude today. There has been a lot going on the past few weeks. Some of which I am not ready to share. But today I feel the need to write down all so that not only I can look back but so that I can show my Heavenly Father my appreciation for all I have been given.<div><br></div><div>The Gospel. I am so grateful for the knowledge I have been given. For my faith. I know with all my heart that everything I have been taught is true. I am so grateful for all that Jesus Christ has done for me. For all those who have come before me and fought for the truth I hold dear. I can not express in words how much I am grateful for all that.</div><div><br></div><div>My husband. He is such an incredibly hardworking man. He is also an incredible father. Nothing makes me happier then watching him with Little man. He is always there for us when we need him. I could not ask for a better husband or father. </div><div><br></div><div>My son. I can honestly say I didn't not truly know what love was until he was born. It is amazing how each and every day I can learn something from him. He has brought such peace to my life. There is not a single day that passes that I do not thank my Father in Heaven for the opportunity I have to be his mother.</div><div><br></div><div>My parents. I have always been close to them. They are always there for me when I need them. It has been amazing to watch them as the have become grandparents. Watching how much they love my son has made me so grateful for them. </div><div><br></div><div>My brothers. There is never a shortage of laughter when we are together. I am always so grateful for all the are willing to help me with. </div><div><br></div><div>My friends. I am very blessed with a few very amazing close friends. I know that I can always count in them. I also know that anytime we are together it will be a blast. </div><div><br></div><div>My life has been so blessed with such amazing blessings. Each and everyday I am so grateful for all I have been given. </div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-910321453226899712014-03-04T14:08:00.001-08:002014-03-04T14:08:44.224-08:00I'm in love with a boy.My son is my life. He is my everything. He is the reason I get out of bed each and every morning. My favorite moments are when I go in to get him in the morning and after nap time. His smile and "Good morning, mommy." Absolutely melt my heart. In that moment it doesn't matter if I had a terrible night or woke up in a bad mood. He is just so happy to just see me.<div><br></div><div>As I put him in the bath last night I just sat there in awe of the little man I am raising. He is so precious. He is learning and growing so much. Last night we were playing with his alphabet magnets, we asked him where certain letters were and he would then grab the letter. Proud mommy moment. In that moment I felt such pride. Those are the "pay off" moments. There are times you may feel like you are failing in helping your child grow. These simple moments show you all the good you are doing. They are so very needed. </div><div><br></div><div>The other day my hubby made a comment about how we have about a year and a half before our little man would be going to preschool. Where did that time go? Am I preparing him to succeed? I think we can always be doing something more. But preparing our children to succeed can be so daunting if we don't know where to start.</div><div><br></div><div> <font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">With my son we play so many games and sing a lot. He has learned his ABC's. He knows so many animals and the sounds they make. It is those moments that I am in such awe of him. To see how he has gone from a newborn to a toddler. To see now he is learning new things each and every day. How he is making connections and how excited he gets when he figures something out. We enjoy getting out and learning as well. We love story time at the library. Going to the zoo and learning about all the animals. Or simply going for a walk and talking about all the things around us. We also take time to teach him about the church. I believe it is just as important to teach him about our faith early as it is to teach him his numbers and shapes. </font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">The most important teaching will happen in your home. Be proud of all the things your child does. You will look back and remember all those milestones. They are important. Cherish them. Always be there to help your child grow. Make time for it. You will be so grateful you did when you have each "pay off" moment.</font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif"><br></font></div><div><font face="Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif">Be the best mommy you can be. </font></div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-41908356776133908602014-02-25T14:28:00.001-08:002014-02-25T14:28:27.576-08:00Do you agree?I have been sitting here trying to decide how to approach this topic. This is one subject that is very emotional for me. It has caused a lot of tears and resentment. What could I possibly be talking about? Mommy wars. What do I mean by this? Let me give you an example.<div><br></div><div>Imagine being completely lost and asking for help. You turn to friends on social media or even other friends. To then be told that what you believe or what you are doing isn't correct. Your heart sinks because you already were unsure with the situation. To then be told your fears are correct. It can be so heartbreaking. </div><div><br></div><div>I am not saying to not try and help that friend out. Or that you shouldn't say what you feel. Because that's what they are asking for. Plus I don't feel you should have to think about if what you have to add is going to hurt your friends feelings. BUT I do believe that you should think about what she is really asking. Speaking from experience many times when I post things on Facebook all I am really looking for is support. There have been times when people have made comments that hurt. I have the power and can either brush it off or let it hurt me. But at times when you can't figure out what's wrong and you just need to know that someone is thinking of you and sending good thoughts your way. Those comments can make you feel so small.</div><div><br></div><div>There have been many times that I have been on Facebook and I see such a post. Say a mother is having a problem with getting her child to sleep through the night. She lists all the things she has tried, the times she is trying to put them down, and the routines she is trying. To then have someone post things such as: "Why are you putting them down so late? No wonder they won't sleep." Or " You have to let them cry it out. They won't go to sleep if you continually go in to calm them down.". All things I have seen. Both have their merits. But every mom is different. Some moms know when it is bed time that their child will just have to cry it out until they fall asleep. Some moms snuggle their child until they fall asleep. Some sleep with their children. Some let them cry and do check ins. Guess what? There is NOTHING wrong with any of these methods. They are all good options. You just have to decide which option is best for you and your child. Can I please just ask one thing? Just because it works for you and your child does NOT mean it works for every child. Can we please just be supportive, and understand that what works for our child may not work for anothers child. </div><div><br></div><div>Let's strive to be positive. To never try and put another mommy down. To only be POSITIVE when we comment on another mommies post. There will come a day when you will be in the situation that you will need to ask for help. Remember that what ever you put out there will come back to you. I am personally tired of these mommy wars. My heart breaks every time I see it happen. Please be aware that every woman has a different view on what being a mommy is. Keep that in mind. Try not to post things that could be taken negatively or as an attack. Like I mentioned before we are all responsible for how we let something affect us. But we also have the responsibility of raising up those we love and care about. </div><div><br></div><div>These are my rules.</div><div>For commenting:</div><div>If you have nothing positive to add then keep scrolling.</div><div>Think of if it is helping or hurting.</div><div>Always try to raise another mommy up.</div><div>Be aware that we all parent differently.</div><div><br></div><div>For reading the comments:</div><div>They are trying to help.</div><div>You are the only one who knows what works and doesn't for your child.</div><div>Don't think of it as a personal attack. </div><div>Be open to new ideas.</div><div><br></div><div>As always my purpose in this post is to put out there the things that are important to me. Things that I would love to see changed. I in no way want to hurt or tear down any mommy. I am a huge advocate for supporting each and every mommy. Being a mom is hard enough. We don't need added stress. Think of how amazing you would feel if you were only told positive things and not negative things. There will always be times for advice. Let's strive to be as positive as possible when these times come up. Do unto others as you would want them to do unto you. Let's end these mommy wars. I know it won't be easy, but I have had enough! </div><div><br></div><div>Be the best mommy you can be!</div><div><br></div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-49185333229005745962014-02-20T14:01:00.001-08:002014-02-20T18:05:31.913-08:00What's your list?When I first found out I was pregnant with my son there was the sheer excitement. Followed by the fear of "Am I ready for this?". Well I mean it is obviously a little late to be thinking that. But I think that it is normal to feel this way. Your life is never the same after having a baby. You no longer get to sleep when or as long as you want. You have this amazing baby who is depending on you to take care of it. I think it is only normal and human to have the fears of not being ready. <div><br></div><div>As my pregnancy progressed that fear only got greater. As I went in for one of my last appointments I was told I needed to go in for an ultrasound. My son was measuring 2 weeks ahead of where he should have been. At that time he was already measuring at 7lbs. Oh man I was going to have a big baby. Granted I get that ultrasound can before off by a couple pounds but still I was only 36 weeks. So when I went I for what would be my last appointment I was interested to talk with the doctor. I brought my mom along so that we had multiple ears listening. As my doctor came in she started to explain that I would have to have a c-section. I felt my heart drop. I wasn't going to be able to do the one thing my body was meant to do. I wasn't going to be able to have my baby how I had planned. This is where I was glad I brought my mom. She was not taking this answer lightly. She asked many important questions. Was this just her opinion or had she consulted other doctors? Turns out this was the opinion of 2 other doctors as well. That made me feel a lot better. This decision was not made lightly. It was made with my health in mind. Sure I could try and be induced but I would have ended up needing a c-section anyway. It was not because of how much he weighed but because of his head. My sons head was no joke huge! He was a perfect little bobble head when he was born. I still remember laying on the table and my doctor whispering to me that he would NOT have fit. I knew I made the right decision. I knew that I had brought my son into this world the safest way for both him and me. </div><div><br></div><div>So what's my point of all this? Every mom is scared when they head to the hospital to have their baby. I am positive that there are things they wish they could have told themselves after they had the baby. Having a newborn can be so hard! You can forget that beautiful moment when you first layed eyes on your sweet baby. </div><div><br></div><div>I found this amazing video on YouTube. They asked first time moms what they would tell themselves if they could go back to right before they had their babies. I absolutely loved it. </div><div><br></div><div>You can watch the video here: <a href="http://youtu.be/taDqKWWPDAY" style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">http://youtu.be/taDqKWWPDAY</a></div><div><br></div><div>So this made me think of my own list. </div><div>You are going to be amazing.</div><div>This is all worth it.</div><div>You are about to meet true love.</div><div>You know all you need to know.</div><div>You will learn fast.</div><div>Don't forget to pray.</div><div>Take time to enjoy the snuggles.</div><div>You will miss these days.</div><div>Sing often. </div><div>Crying doesn't make you weak.</div><div>Remember to laugh.</div><div><br></div><div>This is my list. What is yours? I love this idea. I think we always focus on the things that go wrong. Let's focus on the good. On the amazing little gift you have been given. I do not want to know what my life would be like without my little man. He is my world. He is my everything. I always heard it is worth it. I can't even tell you how true this statement is. Every sleepless night, every late night feeding is worth it. Being a mother is the best! </div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Wn-AWMjry04/UwZ8-CtyzZI/AAAAAAAAA70/me64Jh1fiSo/s640/blogger-image--1700825762.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Wn-AWMjry04/UwZ8-CtyzZI/AAAAAAAAA70/me64Jh1fiSo/s640/blogger-image--1700825762.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Be the best mommy you can be.</div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-36813516834111990962014-02-17T14:58:00.001-08:002014-02-17T15:07:37.995-08:00Take time for yourself.<div><br></div>I absolutely love being a mommy. I have absolutely no complaints. I truly believe my true calling is to be a mom. But with that said one thing I hold very true is the importance of mommy time. By that I mean that it is so important to do things for yourself. To take time for yourself and take care of yourself. <div><br></div><div>I love yoga. That is definitely one of my mommy time favorites. But I wanted to do something where I would feel truly accomplished. For about a year now I have really wanted to do a 5k. But I never really looked into it. Well one of the ladies in my ward signed up for the Run or Dye 5k and I was so interested. They throw dye on you 5 separate times during the run. It was seriously so fun. I trained for about 2 weeks, I got sick 1 week before. It's amazing how much being active helps you feel so good about yourself. </div><div><br></div><div>Do you have a mommy time favorite? I want to hear it! I always love hearing what others mommies do for themselves. It could be as simple as a long bath. Or hiding in the closet eating a candy bar. Admit it we have all done it. No Shame! </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-wyh9uOKSsUg/UwKUH3SIVsI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/2bWNdFNyHZA/s640/blogger-image-1062240019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-wyh9uOKSsUg/UwKUH3SIVsI/AAAAAAAAA7Y/2bWNdFNyHZA/s640/blogger-image-1062240019.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Before the run. We look so clean!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-bhBmA3n7Md0/UwKUGs81zfI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/k1hcYIV2GFM/s640/blogger-image--223913031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-bhBmA3n7Md0/UwKUGs81zfI/AAAAAAAAA7Q/k1hcYIV2GFM/s640/blogger-image--223913031.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">After crossing the finish line. I absolutely loved the feeling I got when I ran across the finish line. It was even better to run up to my little man and get some love afterwards! </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G2RHH41ziV0/UwKWOGrQtXI/AAAAAAAAA7k/ajRzNwWTePM/s640/blogger-image--1206739031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-G2RHH41ziV0/UwKWOGrQtXI/AAAAAAAAA7k/ajRzNwWTePM/s640/blogger-image--1206739031.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Coloring the sky.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-v35kfSVqXSY/UwKT9mykW2I/AAAAAAAAA7I/3o_72RxYM1M/s640/blogger-image--834128620.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-v35kfSVqXSY/UwKT9mykW2I/AAAAAAAAA7I/3o_72RxYM1M/s640/blogger-image--834128620.jpg"></a></div><br></div>So after the run they had music playing and we went and danced and sang along. This is where I got really colored. Even 15 mins they would have everyone in the group throw the dye up in the air. It was amazing. I loved how colorful I got! Plus I absolutely loved that my shirt still has the purple hue to it! </div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div>Honestly I can't even tell you how much I believe in mommy time. If you don't do it you should. It's amazing how often we forget to take time for ourselves. We usually are so focused on taking care of our families. When my son was a newborn I usually wouldn't shower till my husband got him from work. I didn't want to not be there when my little man needed me. As he got older I started to realize I was neglecting myself. So I started to look for ways to take better care of myself. I would use nap time as me time. Instead of snuggling and taking a nap myself. I didn't do this every time he took a nap but at least once a day I would have me time. </div><div><br></div><div>You are the best mommy. Just make sure you are the best you as well.</div><div><br></div><div>Be the best mommy you can be.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-83860498673757473082014-02-11T16:44:00.001-08:002014-02-11T16:44:19.043-08:00Two for one.<div><br></div>Sickness has been kicking my butt the last couple of days. Let me tell you infected tonsils are not fun! Definitely a long recovery. <div><br></div><div>So today I have two different outfits. Hence two for one! Two for one post. I absolutely love leggings! I know I have been on the other side. The side that says they are not pants! No they are not pants but they are a great alternative! Especially one days where you feel your button must have been moved in your sleep. Because they fit just fine yesterday. We all have those days. For these days leggings or maxi shirts are my go to. Also, don't be afraid to wear them because you are not a stick. I think you should fault and feel comfortable. The first time I ever wore leggings like out in public, because let's be honest I rock them when going to bed, I was in Disneyland. No joke. They weren't even like a plain color. They were purple and green, with some white. Guess what I got some funny looks. But did I care? No way! I was in Disneyland and COMFORTABLE! After that I tried some plain black ones not as many looks. I love leggings! No amount or looks. Or comments for that matter is going to make me stop wearing them. Because guess what they are part of my comfy still. </div><div><br></div><div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LwEp8kooLAo/UvrD3eezOiI/AAAAAAAAA6w/SwPAUx7JuP4/s640/blogger-image--351973627.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-LwEp8kooLAo/UvrD3eezOiI/AAAAAAAAA6w/SwPAUx7JuP4/s640/blogger-image--351973627.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B7tVoXa2dEQ/UvrD4RVjV8I/AAAAAAAAA64/Ma3tHlO4x7Q/s640/blogger-image--1425787199.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-B7tVoXa2dEQ/UvrD4RVjV8I/AAAAAAAAA64/Ma3tHlO4x7Q/s640/blogger-image--1425787199.jpg"></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">See my fun shoes! I mentioned them in my first post. I love the pop of color they bring. Also love my Color by Amber spring earrings. They have actual dried flowers in them! Just so fun.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Top: Forever21</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Sweater: Old Navy</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Leggings: Target</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Shoes: Forever21</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Earrings: Color by Amber (JessicaPhillips.mycolorbyamber.com)</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">For my next one it's a little valentine action. Simple and flowy. Easy to throw together.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-4QUPG4gBG2s/UvrD2otxN_I/AAAAAAAAA6o/aojBKUpQ4LI/s640/blogger-image-618285975.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-4QUPG4gBG2s/UvrD2otxN_I/AAAAAAAAA6o/aojBKUpQ4LI/s640/blogger-image-618285975.jpg"></a></div><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div>Sweater: New York & Company</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Shirt: Forever 21</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Jeans: Old Navy</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Necklace: Izzies Pretties</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Earrings: Color By Amber</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both;">Shoes: Toms</div> </div><div><br></div><div>I have to say something about much jeans. They are the rock star fit from Old Navy. They are amazing. They are stretchy and so forgiving. They are pretty much the only jeans I wear.</div><div><br></div><div>Be the best mommy you can be.</div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-54264222435117019452014-02-07T15:20:00.001-08:002014-02-07T15:20:42.197-08:00Ever have those days?Do you ever have those days that you wake up in a funk? You stay in pjs all day and feel like such a failure. I do. Today was one of those day. But to me I embrace those days. For days like these are the days I will always remember most. They are usually filled with such laughter and snuggles. <div><br></div><div>As a moms I feel that at times we measure the success of the day on what we got done. I know I am guilty of this. I get overwhelmed by dishes in the sink, loads of dirty laundry, unmade beds, and toy covered floors. But I have learned one thing in preparing to write this. None of that matters when you have a small child who depends on you. Being a mom is the most rewarding and challenging thing. You constantly feel like you are not doing enough. At least for me I have my moments were I feel like I am doing no good for my son. I don't have enough patience all the time. My house doesn't always look picture perfect. We have melt downs on a regular basis. I have burnt dinner. But do these things matter in the eyes of your child? No they don't. I have heard it said that "Behind every great child, is a mother who thinks she is failing miserably. </div><div><br></div><div>I promise you that what you are doing is enough. That you are the best mother for your child. My husband always tells me "You are the best mommy Little man could ever ask for." To me that is a powerful statement. Our children love us so perfectly. They see us as super moms. We are doing exactly what we need to. To them we can do no wrong. </div><div><br></div><div>Sure we are not perfect. No one is. But improvement is what matters. Being better and trying better each passing day. </div><div><br></div><div>About a year ago there was a video going around on Facebook. A couple of mothers came in and talked about them as a mother. A couple of days later they came back in and watched a video of what their children said about them as a mother. It is amazing how much good our children have to say about us. To them we are enough. These mothers got one of the greatest gifts in my mind. That got to hear from their children the things that they are doing right. </div><div><br></div><div><a href="http://youtu.be/_V6EafTMKNw">http://youtu.be/_V6EafTMKNw</a> </div><div>(The link to the video.)</div><div><br></div><div>Motherhood is not easy, but it is worth it. You are doing the best you can! Be proud of the amazing mother you are. Embrace the days that are lazy days. They will quickly become your favorite. </div><div><br></div><div>Be the best mommy you can be.</div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-9451966079599744612014-02-05T14:40:00.001-08:002014-02-05T21:42:10.498-08:00Things that make me happy.There are few things that make me so happy that I just have to share. Of course my little man is at the top of the list. Right along with my husband. But lately I have been in a funk. I love my time with my little man and hubby. But at nap time I feel so lazy, and unimportant. So I am going to get back into my blog. That way I can let out how I am feeling and share some tips that have helped me as a mommy. Plus, there are tons of blogs out there for fashion. But sometimes I feel that as a stay at home mom I can never look like that. Because let's face it. No way can you be in heels and a skirt all day long, especially when you are chasing after a toddler. Sure I have my days where I want to look like a hot mom. But those are few and far between. Sometimes I want something that is comfy and cute, but looks like I actually care. Believe me when I say my wardrobe is based on comfort. I do not buy something I would not feel comfortable enough to take a nap in. Silly right but to me that is a great motto to live by. I also have a ton of neutrals. Because I look for things that I can wear year round. Of course every new season I buy something specific in color to that season. But I own way more black, grey, white and cream than anything else. I am ok with that.<br />
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Mommy fashion to me is about the ability to look put together with simple pieces that can be reused over and over. Also, like I said earlier to be able to run after a child. So I am going to post some of my ideas. Let me say, this is just for me to feel like I am contributing in some way in empowering all mommy's out there. I am in no way trained. These are just my ideas and outfits I love to wear. Every mommy has their own style. Do not ever feel bad for wearing more sweats then jeans. Or oversized t shirts. You are beautiful! You are the best mommy you can be. Cherish that child you love so much.</div>
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My 5 tips for mommy fashion:</div>
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1) Make sure you feel comfortable in what you are wearing. Do NOT wear something because it is the style that is popular. You need to feel comfortable and feel like you look amazing. Don't try and blend in with the crowd.</div>
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2) Before you buy have a plan for how you will wear it. When I first started looking for "My Style" I would buy so many things wear them once and then never again. That wastes so much money! Really it does! So now when I am shopping I try and think of 5 different ways that I could wear that piece. That way I already have a plan on how I want to wear it. </div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">3) Accessories are your friend. As some of you know I sell Color By Amber jewelry. I absolutely love it. It is lightweight and kid friendly. It is amazing to me how an outfit can go from dull to polished just by adding earrings or a necklace. Or for that matter how quickly adding jewelry can change your mood. You instantly feel beautiful. At least for me. Plus belts instantly make your silhoutte more pronounced. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">4) Don't forget about the shoes. Ever put an outfit together and feel like it is perfect then you look down only to realize the shoes let it down? Well I have. I don't own a lot of shoes and don't really like spending a lot of money on shoes, but I do have a good selection. From heels to flats, you want to have a couple of pairs that you love and that look good. Plus don't be afraid to add color in with your shoes. I recently bought a pair of neon t strap flats, that are studded. At first I thought I would never wear these. But they have quickly become my favs. I can wear my neutrals and add color with the shoes. It makes my outfit look much more put together.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue Light', HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">5) There will be days you don't like the way you look in anything but sweats. Believe me when I tell you how true this is. Whether you are sick, you had a rough night, or you just want to quickly get your errands done. There will be days where you could care less about how you look. IT IS OK! Never feel embarrassed to leave the house in sweats. Even the most fashionable of moms have these days. Own it and hold your head high! </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">I hope this helps just one person feel better about themselves. We as mommy's have to stick together. Not tear each other down. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Be on the look out for lots of fun "mommy fashion". This is something I am truly passionate about. I hope it shows and I hope it is useful. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue Light, HelveticaNeue-Light, helvetica, arial, sans-serif;">Be the best mommy you can be.</span></div>
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Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6696181750367856220.post-42650274737150312242013-02-28T10:34:00.001-08:002013-02-28T10:34:01.267-08:00First haircut/first slideSo about a week ago we got monkeys hair cut and it looks adorable. We so should have done it sooner but I was all noo he will look so big if I cut it! Seriously Ben had to talk me into it. Lol but now I love it. I must say though it is kinda head styling a little mans hair. He loves to have gel but as soon as I start putting it in his hair and styling it he runs away like its a game. So cute but hard to grab him when you have goo all over your hands. He also got a new slide from grandma and grandpa. He loves it and has fully mastered climbing up the steps all by himself. Loves throwing his toys down it! He has tried just about every one he could. <br />
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Ben and I are doing good. I am so in love with being in young women's. I love everything about it. I love the new lesson program. Totally inspired and so amazing! Ben is still working and going to school! <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s_sjZ3yt8Ls/US-jFJpfv8I/AAAAAAAAA0c/mJ4N3B_qM00/s640/blogger-image-235428637.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-s_sjZ3yt8Ls/US-jFJpfv8I/AAAAAAAAA0c/mJ4N3B_qM00/s640/blogger-image-235428637.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-t8roolVDNWQ/US-jGJUL9WI/AAAAAAAAA0k/yIjANA4qUbU/s640/blogger-image--1844058464.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-t8roolVDNWQ/US-jGJUL9WI/AAAAAAAAA0k/yIjANA4qUbU/s640/blogger-image--1844058464.jpg" /></a></div> <br/><br/><div class="separator"style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lRZFGZbp7sY/US-jEZwiIPI/AAAAAAAAA0U/gUfFNINxW5o/s640/blogger-image-2096745798.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-lRZFGZbp7sY/US-jEZwiIPI/AAAAAAAAA0U/gUfFNINxW5o/s640/blogger-image-2096745798.jpg" /></a></div>Jess and Benhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/04016492336209985962noreply@blogger.com0