Second Chances ... New Beginnings

To the men in my life who are Daddy's ;)

2011-06-22T13:04:00.000-07:00

So, Father's Day was last weekend, and I am just now getting around to writing an entry for this very special day. Life has been crazy this week... as usual. ;)
I feel very blessed to have men in Gracie's and my life that are so very special. My dad of course has been there for me my entire life. Starting when I was a newborn baby, and my mom was too sick to take care of me, he stepped up and despite not knowing the first thing about a newborn, took me home alone from the hospital because my mother had to stay longer then expected because she was so sick. My dad continued to take care of me while my mom had several years of illness without a second thought, and he did it well. That time I had with my father is probably what allowed me to have such a close relationship with him all my life. I am grateful that he didn't get scared and walk away when things got too tough. It shows me how much he loved me then and now. Dad, you continue to be there for me every moment I need you. I love that no matter what happens, I know that I can come to you and you will be there for me to offer a shoulder, an ear, and a different point of view if asked. Our relationship has evolved over the years, but has continued to get stronger. I am so grateful for that.
I also feel so unbelieveably blessed to have chosen Teddy to be the father of Ms. Gracie and hopefully another little one someday. ;) Although Gracie was a complete miracle and surprise, I truly believe it was God's plan that she be our daughter and we be her mommy and daddy. Teddy didn't think he was ready to be a dad before Ms. Gracie was born, but now it is obvious that he is an amazing daddy, and Gracie is so very lucky to be able to call him "her daddy". It brings me such joy to see the two of them together, and I see the love in his eyes when he spends time with her, or simply utters the words, "Gracie", "Little Bit", "Little Miss", or even "Stinker Baby" lol. There is absolutely no one else I would ever want to be the father of my babies then you Teddy. You are an amazing father, and I look forward to watching you with our children for the rest of my life. ;) You are now and always my beloved.
As you all know, recently Teddy asked me to marry him. With marriage comes acquiring a whole second family, although I feel as though his family has been my family for years at this point, they don't officially become my "in-laws" until our wedding day. ;) I am thankful to be able to call Teddy's father "dad" also. He has looked out for me and supported me since shortly after Teddy and I started dating three and a half years ago. I feel blessed that we have always gotten along so well, and I am thankful that he cares for me as his own daughter as well. I am so grateful for his love and support along the journey that Teddy and I have been on. ;)
I am so thankful for all of the men in my life who are father's, as I know Gracie is so thankful and blessed to have the most amazing daddy, Peepaw, and Grandpa a little girl could ever ask for. I will always make sure she knows just how blessed she is to have these three special men in her life who love her more then life itself, and will do everything I can to make her relationship with all three as special as my relationship is with all of them as well. We love you all so very much, thank you for your unconditional love and support ;)

Thank God for Second Chances .....

2011-06-12T05:47:00.000-07:00

Many of you know the story of Teddy and I, although, there are probably many of you who don't. Our story is one of those stories that if you would have told me it would happen two years ago, I may have not believed you.... although many of you who knew Teddy and I well, or had spent any time with us together over the two plus years we were just friends, you would have said it was a guarantee ;)
Three + years ago, I met a man on-line.... the site was "Woo-me" which I thought was adorable. We talked for weeks via text and just on the phone, and finally had our first date at Checkered Cafe during our lunch hours. (We actually were supposed to meet the day before, but I got sick. (He thought I was just blowing him off, which of course I wasn't... although nervous to meet him ;).
We had a great lunch, the conversation was flowing (no uncomfortable silences, or awkward moments). It was just as I hoped it would be. He also was easy on the eyes ;) We decided at the end of that date that we would try to have a second date the next night, and things just kept going from there. I knew very quickly that there was something really special about him. Well, as many of you already know, our relationship took a turn when I found out I was pregnant. That was a shock to even myself, who was told years before, the possibility of having children on my own would be near impossible. So, imagine my surprise when I had five home pregnancy tests in front of me saying otherwise, and imagine Teddy's surprise as well. He was scared, shocked, and pretty much a mess, which I can't say I blame him. We ended up splitting up, which was the hardest part of this three + year time frame. I will say though, I think it was the absolute best thing that could have ever happened. With having Grace, our daughter, it was never a question to me that Teddy and I would have to put our differences aside, and be friends for her. I didn't want her to suffer because we were not together. I was determined to make her life as normal as possible despite having parents in two separate houses. So, when Grace was born, Teddy and I both forgave each other for all of the things that had happened before (this was with a lot of prayer, and understanding). We put all of our differences aside, and spent time together with Gracie with the plan to show her, that even though her parents were not together, they loved her, and could be good friends.
As Teddy and I spent the next year and a half together, our friendship grew. We talked to each other about everything. He was my best friend, and I was his. I knew there was absolutely nothing I could not say to him, and I think he felt the same way. He dated other people, I dated other people, and we would talk about our dating experiences with each other lol. He was my sounding board, and I his. I know, weird, but I think that this friendship is what led to us falling back in love with one another. We did things a bit backwards the first time around lol. We were a couple, before we were friends, and that was a huge piece of the missing puzzle. We also have grown up quite a bit over the past three years, and both look at life in a much more unselfish way, we value each other more as well. I do think we had to go thru all of that to get to where we finally are today, which is very much in love. We aren't just in love though, we love each other completely. We know each other's weaknesses and flaws, and still love one another. We have been thru storms that many people don't go thru in years of marriage, and we have come out stronger then before we went thru them (even though going thru them felt near impossible lol). I am so thankful for second chances and learning how to forgive.
So, yesterday on June 11, I was having a pretty rotten morning. My mom had been sick in the hospital, Gracie had woken up on the wrong side of the crib, I was tired, and it just seemed as though everything that I had had planned for the day was going awry.... lol. It was just one of those mornings. Teddy came downstairs and pretty much got an ear full, and then a girlfriend crying. He listened as he always does, validated my feelings, and then said, "hold on". He went upstairs, and as quickly as he went upstairs, he was back down. He asked me to come into the living room to where he was at, and right then, he got down on one knee, and asked, "Wendy, will you marry me?" thru some tears (which was really touching to me) as Gracie is running around like a crazy girl (as usual) lol. People have asked how he did it... and if it was perfect? I will say, it was absolutely perfect. It was real, and in the midst of our life as it is sometimes, hectic and busy, there was more honesty in that moment then in a proposal that was planned out and made to be perfect so to speak. It made me realize more then anything else that he was going to be there always,thru craziness, unexpected moments, good times, and bad, he was ready, and I was ready also. You see, our life isn't the fairytale romance, it is the real life kind. With all we have been through, we have grown as a couple, and as individuals, which only makes us a couple even stronger then ever. There is absolutely no one else I would want to walk thru this road called "life" with other then you Teddy. I love you so very much, and cannot imagine spending my life without you. Thank you for being the man I can lean on, laugh with, look towards, and work with to be the best me I can be for myself and for our family. You are the love of my life, and I know for certain, I finally got it right. ;)

As I said in the introduction to my blog, I am the exception, not the rule, as a smart man once said. I fell in love to the father of my beautiful daughter, we split up, and then two years later fell back in love. We spent two years being their for Gracie and each other on a purely friend level, and that friendship has evolved into love. With forgiveness comes understanding, and love like nothing I have ever experienced before. Our journey is about Second chances and realizing what is most important in life and that is God, Love, and Family.

More photos of Wine Fest ;)

2011-06-07T23:28:00.001-07:00

Just a few more pictures of Wine Fest ;)

Vintage Indiana Wine Fest 2011

2011-06-07T13:16:00.000-07:00

On Saturday of this last weekend, Teddy, Grace and I headed to Vintage Wine Fest in downtown Indy, and had a wonderful day. We met my sister and her boyfriend, her friend Maggie, my mom, and her friend Lyn down there for some wine tasting, and good times with family and friends. Teddy and I had a really nice day together, it was so nice to have him off for the whole day, and not having to go into work in the afternoon. I adore him so very much, and cherish the time with him more and more everyday. We tried a lot of great wine, and shared some very special moments also. Gracie had a blast as well. She loved the music, and especially loved being chased by everyone. Her favorite pasttime these days is running ;) and she is very good at it lol. We finally ended the day with a dinner at Weber Grill with my family and Teddy's family. It was really nice to have all of our famalies together, and I am so thankful that everyone gets along so well. ;) That is such an awesome thing. So many people don't get along with their in-laws, and even though Teddy's parents are technically not my in-laws, I have always felt as though they were my family, especially Teddy's mom. She has been there for me since I have met her, and I am grateful for that as well. I admire her a great deal, and am so glad that God made our paths connect with each other.
The wine fest was wonderful, dinner was absolutly delicious, and the time with my family was irreplaceable. ;) A good time was had by all..... even little Ms. Gracie. Storms hit the northside of town once we got home, and our electricity was out for a few hours off and on, so we ended the day early by heading to bed to get a few extra hours of beauty sleep ;) When you combine wine, sun, heat, and a good meal all together, you end up with a family of very sleepy people, but a very happy family nontheless. ;)

Memorial Day Weekend Part 1

2011-06-01T03:21:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day weekend was a wonderful weekend spent with family and friends celebrating Gracie's two year birthday, remembering those men and women who have served and fallen in the Armed Forces, cherishing the freedom we have because of them, as well as being thankful for the family and friends that I are surrounded by. I feel very blessed these days to have such an amazing family surrounding me. As many of you know, I recently was lucky enough to become a +2 (and child) instead of a + 1 (and child), and that is truly a gift to me. I feel so lucky to have Teddy walking by my side now not just as a co-parent, but as my partner, best friend, lover, and my "strong and steady". He has always been there for Grace and I, but now, I know for certain that he will be there for all of those things with love for me as well ;) My mom, sister, and dad are truly a blessing to me as well. Even as our family has gone through changes in the past several years, one thing remains the same, we still lean on each other, laugh with each other, and are always there for one another in both good times and bad. Kyla, thank you for being my "rock" of a sister that is level-headed, and also very humorous when need be. God knew what he was doing when he put you and I together for life on this road of sisterhood. I just hope you know how much I love and adore you (and always will). Mom.... what do I say about you? Thank you, Thank you, Thank you, for always being the one I can come to with absolutely anything. A lot of girls probably cannot say that about their moms, and I just pray that I do as good of job with Ms. Gracie as you have done with me. You are one of my best friends, and I cherish you so very much. Dad... I love you, I always will be "daddy's little girl", and as you go through your new change in life of getting married and starting a new chapter, just know I love you and support you. You always tell me, "I just want you to be happy", so I will say the same to you. I know you are happy, and that is what it is all about. Gracie, what can I say about you? You make your mommy so very happy every single minute of every single day. You cute little phrases, of "Oh Yer it is", "copy cake", "I love you Mommy", "So, what are we going to do?" and the latest, "So, you think you can dance?" are just a few of the phrases that bring a gentle tug at my heart. I look at you and am amazed at how I got so lucky to be a mommy to you. I think God knew what he was doing there also, for sure. ;) Mommy loves you as many fish in the sea and stars in the sky.... (and that number kees growing) :) Family.... you all mean everything to me, and I love you all so very much.
Memorial Day weekend was a gentle reminder to me of all I have and am blessed to have. I know it wasn't meant for that purpose, but having all of my family surround me throughout the weekend made me remember that. I hope these pictures truly give you all a sense of just how blessed I am, and remind others to take a moment and count your blessings as well. ;)

The Love of my Life

2011-05-23T13:40:00.000-07:00

So I posted these pictures several days ago with every intent on getting a post added to them soon after, but I have been so very sick with an upper respIratory tract infection and strept throat that I have been unable to do very much of anything. That makes this post even more special to me then before I got sick. Teddy has been unbeliueveable while I have been under the weather. I make no excuses for myself, when ii am sick, I am the biggest baby you will ever meet... And he was absolute biggest support for this big baby. I take great comfort in knowing that the man I want to spend the rest of my life with is a man who will step up when the going gets tough, and take care of everything... Not just himself, but me, our sweet baby, and our home. Teddy, I love you... I have said it before, but ill say it again, after all these years... I know, I finally got it right. You are the LOVE of my life. I look forward to the adventures we will share, and take comfort in knowing any trials we face, I have the biggest shoulder and support walking right beside me thru our life together. In the words of Blake Shelton, If u will be my strong and steady, I will be your soft and sweet; ill be your glass of wine if you will be my shot of whiskey, ill be your sunny day if you will be my shaddy tree, and you can be my honey suckle and I will always be your honey bee... For as long as we both shall live. You are my beloved. Thank you for all you do and all you are. Love, your Short Stuff

Mothers Day (part 2)

2011-05-23T13:37:00.000-07:00

So I am just now getting a chance to write about the second half of Mother's Day.... It has been a busy few weeks, and only after getting strept throat on Monday night, have I actually had a chance to write this entry. I am still very under the weather, but wanted to take a few moments and get this posted.
After we spent the morning and early part of the afternoon with Teddy, Gracie and I were able to head downtown to celebrate my mom for Mother's Day. Kyla and I decided to take mom to the Creation Cafe on the canal. It was a beautiful day out, the sun was shining, and it was the perfect temperature. It was so nice in fact that we were able to sit outside on the patio (something my mom absolutely loves to do). ;) We had a wonderful dinner, and of course great conversation as usual. AFter dinner, I was able to get my daddy to watch Gracie so that Kyla and I could take mom to a movie. It had been December since we had all been able to go to a movie together. That is something we have always enjoyed doing, but with a little one, next to impossible to make it thru unless we leave her with a sitter to go. It was a wonderful way to spend the day celebrating our mom. Mom, I do not know what I would do without you. You have been there with me walking alongside of me now for 33 years. I hope that you know just how much I love you, value your opinion, appreciate your support, and am in awe at your strength. You are an amazing woman, and I pray everyday I grow up to be just like you. Kyla and I are both so very lucky to have you as our mom, and Gracie is so lucky to have a Monga like you! (That is what Gracie calls her Grandma for some reason ;)

Our sweet baby girl is 2!

2011-05-20T18:07:00.001-07:00

Well, I am a little delayed in this post, but on May 12th our little girl turned 2 years old. I cannot believe it, and that day I was an emotional mess. I was happy and so proud of Ms. Gracie and how much she has grown and developed into this amazing, seemingly advanced (yes, I know I am biased ;) walking (although sometime clumsily) vibrant little girl.... yet at the same time, sad that my little baby who always would snuggle into me at all hours of the day and depend on me for absolutely everything, had somehow grew up enough to not need me quite as much. It is bittersweet. We all want our kids to thrive and do the best that they can, but a small part of me was sad that she didn't need her mommy quite so much. It also made me realize at some point, she won't need me hardly at all. I hope when that time comes, although she may not need me around, she will want me around simply "because". ;)
We had a wonderful day together, just Gracie, Teddy and I. We spent last year together also, but this year was very special to me because we spent the day celebrating Gracie's birthday as a family. It was so nice to know that at the end of the day, we were all going HOME together, to fall asleep under the same roof, in the same home. This may be something that many people think is not that big of a deal, but I will never take small moments like this for granted. Being apart from Teddy for almost two years, and not being together as a family left a painful void in my heart. That void has been filled now, and I feel so blessed to be together again as a family, and to be able to call Teddy "my beloved", and the three of us a family finally. ;)
Our day started with us all going to the gym together in the morning, and then we headed to Barnes and Noble to pick out a book for Gracie. We had decided last year to make it a tradition to go to the bookstore and let Gracie pick out a book for her to buy. (I make sure to write in it each year that, that particular book was her "birthday book" and the year of course). I hope that Gracie will have all of them when she is grown and has her own child and then she can pass them down to her little girl or boy each year on their subsequent birthday. :) We headed to lunch and then to the Carters outlet to return a few things as well as pick up some new clothes for the birthday girl. ;) We finished our time out with a trip to GiGi's cupcakes for a midnight double chocolate cupcake that the three of us split. It was yummy, and I think Gracie agrees with her daddy that chocolate cake is by far the best cake ever. ;)
When we finally got back home, Daddy had the fun task of putting together Gracies birthday present from us.... a Radioflyer pink tricycle. ;) I don't think that was his favorite part of the day, but he did it with a smile for the most part despite not really enjoying it. (Thank you baby for putting that together without much complaining.... you are truly amazing ;)
Gracie absolutely LOVES her bike! ;) She wants to ride it all the time, and the nice thing is, there is a handle in the back in which me, Teddy, or any other lucky person who happens to be taking Gracie for a bike ride can actually steer and push it while Gracie figures out how exactly to peddle and steer on her own. ;) She feels like a big girl as she is learning!

The very end of our day, we were blessed to have Teddy's parents make it from Florida to see Gracie on her hirthday. (They surprised her by being there in the afternoon when we got home!). We all went out to dinner together to Abuelo's and the waiters sang Happy Birthday to Gracie while bringing her a molten cake for desert. ;) She loved the singing, wasn't crazy about the molten cake lol. (It didn't go to waste though.... ;)
It was a wonderful birthday with Gracie. I do feel so blessed to have our family together, and do not know what I would ever do without them. Teddy is the love of my life, and without him I would be lost. I hope that you know just how much you mean to me and Gracie baby. You are our home, and our world. Looking forward to many more birthday celebrations with you over the years. There is no one else I want to grow old with and watch our daughter grow old with then you. ;) Thank you for making our little girls birthday the best ever.

Mother's Day (Part One) :)

2011-05-09T19:02:00.000-07:00

So, I have to write about Mother's Day in two parts, because the first part was with my sweet baby girl and Teddy, and the second part was with my mom, sister, and Gracie in the evening. ;) I don't have the pictures of the second part of my day downloaded yet, so unfortunately, the second portion will have to be continued.
I had a wonderful Mother's Day. I woke up early with my little one, and we got dressed and headed to her favorite place for breakfast (Starbucks). She loves their banana chocolate chip coffee cake, in which she refers to it as "nana copy-cake". It is absolutely adorable, and even more adorable to watch her sitting in the big chair up to the table, as she eats and greets every other half-asleep person who crosses the threshold of the imfamous coffee-lovers dream so early in the morning. Her greeting is simple, "Hello guys, Cock-a-doodle-doo" :) Priceless right? I love it (and it seems everyone else does also). After she ate her copy-cake, we headed home to wake up daddy. Daddy and Gracie gave me a VERY, VERY sweet card, socks (because I keep stealing both of their socks lol... yes, my two year old's included), underwear, and a brand new zoom lens for my Nikon camera (the best gift ever). I was so surprised and completely impressed at the thought that Teddy put into my gift. It was obvious that he had been paying attention to things I had been saying over the past few months, and actually listening to me! ;) I continue to be in awe of him on a daily basis, the love I have for him, and how much my love continues to grow for him every day. I keep telling him my heart grows a little more for you everyday. Just when I think that it is as full as it possibly could be, it grows a little more, and a little more, and more still. I think this is truly the way love is supposed to be, and for the first time ever in my life.... I know I finally got it right. I am so thankful that we found our way back to each other, and saw what an amazing gift we had right in front of us. He is the only man I want walking alongside of me for the rest of my life. ;) We finished the afternoon off with lunch, and a little snuggling on the couch while Gracie was trying to take a nap (a next to impossible task these days) before Teddy had to go into work. It was an amazing day with our little family. ;) The little family I am so blessed to have. Thank you Gracie and Teddy for making me feel like the luckiest mommy in the world. I take such joy in taking care of both of you every day, and look forward to every moment.

A Big Moment in our Family! ;)

2011-05-09T18:55:00.000-07:00

So, on Saturday May 7th, my little sister (aka my best friend), officially graduated from college! I am so very proud of her for this huge accomplishment, and hope that she knows just how truly proud I am. I laughed with my mom as she was getting her diploma because I was tearing up.... I have no idea why I get so mushy. It is as though I am the mom (she may agree that I have acted like a 2nd mother in the past lol). Sorry about that Kyla, it is just because I care about you so much. Congratulations on becoming a teacher, I know that you will be a wonderful asset to so many children. They are truly lucky to have such a great leader! ;) I love you so very much! ;) Love Always, your big sister ;)

A Moment to Breathe.....

2011-04-26T18:50:00.000-07:00

So since my last entry, things have settled in even more, which is a major plus in our family. Gracie and I are finally almost all the way moved out of our old apartment, and moved into our home with Teddy. I hired my dad to do the painting, and just have to go back to clean a bit, and pick up a few things that we left after our last trip with the Uhaul. ;) I am so glad that the day is almost here that I can say officially we are all under one roof. Not to say that everything will be in its neat and tidy spot for quite some time, but at least it is all in one location, and not spread out over a 60 mile radius. One thing for sure is that we are all more relaxed, and able to truly enjoy more of one another and our life as a family. On Sunday and Monday evening this week we were able to actually cuddle on the couch all three of us for hours. There is nothing better then that time. After being apart from Teddy for two years, I cherish those little moments, hugs, and kisses that some may take for granted. Those are the moments that make us work so well together and just "fit" as a couple like no one else ever could "fit" with me but him. I am looking forward to more "moments to breathe" over the next month as Teddy finishes up a 2 and a half month orientation at his new job, we finally get settled into his evening hours at work, and we get the rest of Gracie and my stuff unpacked and put away. By this time next month.... I hope that we will be completely settled in and loving our life together. Only thing left will be getting a ring on my right hand LOL. As Teddy keeps telling me, "I have a plan.... stop trying to interfere with it". ;) So, I suppose I will give him a moment to breathe....a moment.... (patience is not my best attribute lol).

Settling Into Life.... But Not Settling

2011-04-06T17:26:00.001-07:00

So It has been officially a month since Gracie and I have made the transition to stay with Teddy in his home, which we now refer to as "our" home together. Life has been hectic and very busy with Teddy starting a new position for work, transitioning from living alone to him having a "girly-girl" and another "girly-girl" who is almost 2 years old running around his normally tidy, "kept up" home, as well as us still trying to pack up my old home to get everything in one place. I have to say Teddy is handling the transition better then I could have ever hoped for. I try hard to keep the loose toys picked up so that he doesn't accidently fall over any,step on one in the middle of the night (although we did have that issue with the plastic cow on the floor for a few days didn't we honey? :) I am so, so, very impressed with him.
One of the things he keeps telling me is that he enjoys seeing toys and the occasional mess around the house, because that means we are here with him, and without the mess, would mean he was without us also. It makes me realize just how much he really wants us with him, and how much I want us to be with him also.
So, we are starting to figure out where things should go, and where they will fit best for all of us.
On Monday night, we finally had our first true glimpse of what life would be like once we are completely settled into more of a routine. Teddy and I both hate using that word "routine", so I guess a better way to say it is "less hectic-ness" (if that is even a word lol).
Let me give you a glimpse of our evening.... Gracie and I were sitting in the dirveway in my car listening to Sugarlands "Stuck on You" (our family song, which Gracie so fondly calls "siggy" for "music"), and Teddy pulled up (this was at 5ish pm). Teddy worked on dinner (he made chili, which is the absolute best chili in the world for-sure ;), while I was able to feed Grace dinner. We sat around the island in the kitchen talking while Teddy cooked and Gracie ate and just caught up on the day. Afterwards, I had time to give Gracie a bath, give her a massage, put her pjs on, read her a few books, help Teddy move some furniture around, vacuum the floors, move Gracie's toys, and finally move the dining room table into the kitchen area. At this point, dinner was finished, and we all were able to sit down at the kitchen table to eat. (Gracie of course had her bedtime snack while we ate Teddy's amazing chili). As I sat there next to Teddy and Grace, I realized for the first time I had a glimpse of what life once things "settled" down, would actually be like.
I had never felt more perfectly centered then I did at that moment with the two people I love more then life itself staring back at me as we sat around the table and ate our meal together as a family.
Since the beginning of the year our lives have changed so much, but all for the better. We have found comfort in things that others may find small, trivial, or routine, and I have found that the small things in life are the most important things. Settling into our life as a family, with Teddy and Gracie, is the "settling into" I have spent my entire life hoping to find. Although I know things will be hectic throughout our lives, I know that there is no one else I would rather be "hectic" in life with, then Teddy and Gracie. Even the most hectic, is the most fun with the two of them. I love you both so much. <3

Girls Day Out!

2011-03-23T00:54:00.003-07:00

One day last week my good friend Marty and I decided to get together and catch up because it had been months since we had actually been able to get together with one another. We took the kids to lunch and then did a little shopping and for the most part they were pretty good despite being out for quite a long time. Here are a few pictures of them at Costco. ;) I think this is the start of a beautiful friendship for them (despite Gracie attacking Mackenzie with a scratch towards the end of the shopping day) (sorry Marty!) ;(

Nothing but a Quiet Night Home with Daddy.... ;)

2011-03-16T18:55:00.001-07:00

So, tonight Daddy is at home with our Little Ms. Personality. I have to say my heart is so full thinking about Gracie and her daddy at home together. Tonight was anything but ordinary, but in our house, it is pretty ordinary lol. Gracie and Daddy went for a walk down to the playground in the neighborhood early on. Teddy said they saw three dogs, and she hated swinging. (This doesn't surprise me, because for some odd reason, my baby doesn't like the swings). I really don't understand that at all, because who wouldn't like to swing???? She has never liked it... crazy girl. I think if someone would sit me outside in a little seat, and push me back and forth while the sun was hitting my face and the outside air was softly blowing around me, I would be in heaven. (My child is bizarre lol).
I guess when they got home, she had left daddy a present in her pants, or as he likes to call it a stinky "deucee". (Forgive me honey, if I am not saying that right... I never call it what he calls it no matter how hard I try lol). It was stinky though, very stinky. Once Teddy took the trash out so that the fulminant odors of my baby's deucee wouldn't engulf the whole house, he came back in to find Gracie sitting in the lid of the trashcan. That's our Gracie ;) She has also spent a large majority of her night taking her pants off and then putting them back on, as well as putting daddy's socks on (she probably tried to put his shoes on also lol, my child, at 22 months, has a shoe fetish), and then of course has gotten lots of snuggle time with her daddy as she refuses to go to bed at a decent hour. As you can see from the pictures, they have had an adventure tonight, as usual with Ms. Gracie. The first picture captures my feelings of knowing that my baby girl is at home with her daddy. It just feels right, safe, comforting, and "home". My heart is full because of the two of them. We have spent so long being apart, that there is nothing that makes me happier and brings me more joy then knowing that when I am working, Daddy and Gracie are home together. I love the two of them with all of my heart, and nights like this make me even more thankful for "daddy-time", stinky deucee's, Gracie's perpetual need to take clothes off and put them back on, her being a little "Carrie Bradshaw" with her shoe fetish, and of course Daddy-Gracie time. I love you both, and wish I was home with you now (maybe without the deucee though lol). Sending big bear hugs and kisses to my two most favorite people in the World.... Grrrrrrrrrrrr.

Good Morning Daddy! ;)

2011-03-15T18:57:00.001-07:00

So, on Monday morning, Gracie kept asking for her daddy. Finally, I said to her Daddy is at work, he will be home later. She looked at me and said, "Daddy at work?" I told her yes. Of course that didn't stop her from looking everywhere for him before finally saying, "Daddy at work" again - lol. She never believes me the first time around. Anyways, I asked Gracie if she wanted to send Daddy a picture, and she of course responded by holding the phone up to her face and saying, "cheeeesssseeee". ;) Cute right? So, here is the picture we sent to Daddy on Monday morning to wish him a good day. It is so nice to be able to send Daddy pictures all the time. I suppose we have always sent pictures to Daddy, but everytime I press the send button now, it just means a little more then it did before. I love being able to wish Teddy (Daddy for Gracie) a Good Morning, Good Night, or just simply send an "I Love You" for no reason at all. It may not mean much to some, but it means everything to me and Gracie. ;)

Can't Seem to Keep her Eyes Open ;)

2011-03-15T18:48:00.001-07:00

Over the weekend, Gracie was full of energy and rarely did she stop to take a breather or give us a breather either lol. Gracie's dad and I have noticed that Gracie always gets really quiet in the carseat, almost as if she is "recharging" her batteries to get ready for the next burst of energy she will have. On this lazy Sunday, we were headed down to the southside to have dinner with Auntie Kyla and Grandma (or "Monga" as Gracie lovingly refers to Grandma as for some reason lol), and I asked her if she wanted to read a book. She immediately said "read" and I handed her the book. I would say within 15 minutes of looking at the same page and "reading" she fell into a deep sleep. It was the cutest thing ever, and for the longest time we were uncertain if she was just looking down at the page, or if she was asleep. I just couldn't help but snap a few pictures of her dozing with her book. ;)

Laundry Races, Airplanes, Up, Up, and Away....

2011-03-14T22:46:00.001-07:00

This weekend was a great weekend for our family. We were able to get some much needed rest and relaxation. As many of you know, our family just recently became reuinted after two years of Grace's dad and I just being co-parents and unknowingly building a strong friendship with one another that moved into a romantic one a few months ago. We have also gone from spending just Saturdays together to spending as much time as possible with one another. This has made all of us very happy, and thankful for the moments we have with each other. Just based on where we have come, to where we are now, I don't think either of us will ever take each other for granted again. This weekend we just spent time with each other. We went to lunch on Saturday, drove around and looked at houses, ran some errands, and just spent a lot of time talking, laughing, and enjoying time together. One of my favorite things to do these days is to watch Grace and her daddy together. She loves him so much, and it is obvious just by watching them together. Saturday night, Gracie discovered that being pushed around in the laundry basket is a lot better then being the one pushing the laundry basket. Teddy pushed her all over the house, and her expression was magic. ;) He also taught her how to become an airplane; holding her arms out as she walked around in circles. At one point on Sunday night, they both were doing that, and it was so wonderful to see her imitate him to such a detailed extent. He also lifted her up on his legs on Sunday morning as we were all snuggled up in bed. She loved being "up up away". :)
It made me so happy to watch Gracie with her daddy this weekend. It was a quiet weekend, but a lot of moments happened, and a lot of memories have been tatoo'd on my heart. I look forward to many more memories being made with our little family.
I love you both Teddy and Gracie. You are my World, with you both by my side anything is possible.

Happy Early St. Patricks Day

2011-03-10T03:34:00.000-08:00

Gracie and I were out shopping this week, and came across the cutest St. Patricks Day hats. We had to try all of them on, and finally settled on these to buy for her St. Patricks Day party at school. ;) Just thought I would share a cute picture of the two of us. We were taking pictures in the store, and of course people probably thought we were crazy. (I don't really care though, we were definitely having a good time). ;)

A Moment Like This....

2011-03-09T14:25:00.001-08:00

It has been a bit of time since I last updated this blog. Valentines day was the last post and that was almost a month ago now. Life has been busy with a lot of new and wonderful changes for our family. Things are going really well with Teddy and I, and I am more in love with him today then I have ever been sine I have known him. i finally have my best friend, partner, and lover that I have hoped for my entire life.
These pictures were taken on Monday night this week. Gracie, her daddy, and I were all laying on the couch having "confy-cozy" time as I like to call it...or "omfy-ozie" time as Gracie likes to refer to it. I took a moment to wonder if moments such as this one I would have taken for granted had Teddy and I not had two years apart from one another being just friends and co-parents for Gracie. I wonder if had we been together all along, would a moment like this be no big deal, insurmountable in the big scheme of things in my eyes? I know that I will never know for sure what it would have been like had we stayed together from the beginning, but I know that in this moment on Monday evening, the world STOOD STILL for me. Nothing else mattered, I just sat back and watched my sweet baby girl with her daddy laughing and talking as if it was what they did every night since the first night she was born. I see Teddy in Grace so much more now then I ever have before, and love seeing his features on her face. Her smile is his, her eyes are the same bright green as his, and her sweet little dimples by her eyes when she smiles are the same dimples I fell in love with the moment I laid eyes on Teddy when I saw him for the first time. I see him in her, and fall in love with both of them more and more everyday. I never thought it would be possible to love something so much, but it is, because I do.
I loved watching them this evening, seeing them together, and knowing that no matter how many nights like that we have, I will never, ever, take a single night like that for granted as long as I am alive. A moment like this, is a moment that should never be taken for granted. I love you both Gracie and Teddy, You are My World ~

Definitely a New Beginning.....

2011-02-14T23:46:00.000-08:00

It has been a really long time since I have written on this blog. Mainly because the only time I seemed to be able to blog was when I was at work, and one day, blogger was all of a sudden blocked on our work computers. So.... needless to say, being a single mom, when I was at home I was either spending time with my baby, cleaning, or flat on the couch from pure exhaustion. ;) Tonight, I found myself searching the web, and thought I should check on my blog and see if it even still exists. Sure enough.... there it is, with pictures and all! It was so nice to see blogger didn't automatically delete your site after so long lol.
Well, things are very different then they were in June of last year. Grace is bigger, and continues to grow into this amazing little girl with a personality that is the perfect blend of her father and I. She is still melts my heart every single day. I don't know what I would do without her. Life has also taken a turn in a new direction.... for the better. Grace's father and I, after spending the last 21 months becoming best friends and really learning about one another have fallen back in love. I realized one night when he looked at me across the table at dinner and said, "well you are my best friend Wendy", that what we both were searching for may have been in front of us all along (especially since I thought of him as my best friend also). Well, on January 19th, I finally had enough nerve to tell him how I was feeling... and he said he had been feeling the same way as I had, just didn't want to say anything to me because he thought I didn't want that with him.
It is amazing to me how you think you have life figured out, and then you are taken on a completely different road then what you had anticipated.
Valentines day was yesterday, and we had a wonderful day together. We went to lunch, and just spent some time together as a family. Teddy and I were also able to get a little cuddle time in while Grace was napping. ;) That is the best thing ever. He said to me, I only want to be with you, and I can't imagine my life with anyone else. I realize how lucky I am to have a 2nd chance with you, and don't want to ever loose you again".... how sweet right? He definitely seems like a different man. He told me when he makes decisions now, he asks himself how his decision will effect the whole family, not just how it will effect him. For those of you who didn't know Grace's dad before.... that is an amazing step in the right direction. ;) I was shocked that he actually was able to say that, and I knew as soon as he said it he meant it.

We have been thru the worst storm ever, but after each storm there is a beautiful rainbow. The rainbow I see now, is the most beautiful rainbow I have ever seen in my life.

Wine Tasting with my Little Sis ;)

2010-06-28T05:53:00.000-07:00

Forgive me that I haven't written a blog entry in months. We no longer have access to this site at work, and that was always when I wrote my blog entries. It seems I have more time to think at work because I am not chasing my sweet baby girl around ;) At the begginning of June I took my sister to the wine Festival in Indy called Vintage Indiana. It was so much fun, and really gave Kyla (my sister, who just turned 21) a chance to learn about wine as well as taste it to see what her favorites may be. She and I both really enjoyed it. We met up with our friends Alisha and Matt, and we both brought our little girls with us also. There was live music, lots of food, and of course lots of wine. ;) Afterwards we went to dinner at Weber Grill. It was a beautiful day with friends.

Happy Mother's Day!

2010-05-09T22:58:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Mother's Day, and I cannot express in words how blessed and lucky I felt all day today. You see, it was my first Mother's Day, and I realized it was the first Mother's Day holiday that I have not let the thought of having a child of my own consume me the whole day. This was in fact, because I now do have a baby of my own...FINALLY! ;) I told my mother that this has to be my favorite holiday, because there is nothing in the world that brings me as much joy as being there for Gracie as a mommy is supposed to be there for her children. ;) I love you Gracie... more than fish in the sea and stars in the sky ;) xoxo

Our new little home, and a few pics of Ms.Gracie ;)

2010-04-29T00:37:00.001-07:00

Well, here are a few pictures of our new cozy little place. It is a little bit bigger than our last place, and my hope is to be able to get into a house by next year around this time. This place will at least allow us to grow some in the meantime. ;) I have almost gotten things where I want them, although there is still quite a bit to unpack at this point. ;) I don't make a lot of progress when Grace is home though and awake because I feel so guilty unpacking instead of playing with her. So.... I unpack when she goes to sleep at night, or when she is napping. ;) I'm a sucker for a baby that wants my attention.... especially my own! ;)

Growing up so quickly.... ;)

2010-04-28T18:11:00.001-07:00

So I don't think Ms. Gracie will be walking by her first birthday which is on May 12th, but we have made strides toward her mastering this great task. ;) She didn't really crawl full force until she was 10 and a half months old, and has just now gotten so that she is a speed crawler per se, so walking doesn't seem to be high on her list. Frankly she just can't move very fast up on her feet, and I think she knows it lol. I definitely don't think she will be crawling to college, so I am not overly concerned ;). Today, however, was the first day that she really made an effort with her walking toy. I decided to take her outside while we practiced, and instead of her normal take one step and sit down, she actually took 4 or 5 steps before she sat down and started crawling away towards the flowers. ;) That is a huge "step" in the right direction. (Pardon the pun ;). I think she liked being outside while doing it, so I may try that more often. She loves the sun and the fresh air, as most babies do. I know she will figure it out on her own time, and I am very ok with that. I have a feeling once she starts walking, she won't stop... so, having my baby as a baby a bit longer, is ok with this mommy who is not quite ready to let go. ;) It is hard to believe that she will be one in just a few weeks, where does the time go? As I always say, I have absolutely no idea what I would ever do without my sweet Ms. Gracie. Mommy loves you more than I can ever put into words. xoxo

Easter ;)

2010-04-06T20:10:00.000-07:00

Little Gracie celebrated her first Easter this year. It was a beautiful day full of celebration of the resurrection of Christ, good food, family, and of course easter baskets full of goodies from the Easter bunny for Grace. We had such a wonderful day. Grace loved everything in her little easter basket, especially the plastic eggs that come apart. I found eggs in the shape of animals, and she sat for at least 30 minutes trying to open all of the eggs before moving on to something else. She was able to take her riding toy outside because it was such a warm day and play. Her dad and I walked her to the park for a little swinging....which she still doesn't like lol. I will of course keep trying ;) I still say, "who doesn't like to swing????" ;)
All in all it was a perfect day. ;)

Gracie and Mommy .... ;)

2010-03-30T02:16:00.001-07:00

Just a pic from this Sunday of Grace and I. We were both wearing blue, so it was a great "photo op". ;)

She loves Charmin.....

2010-03-30T02:07:00.000-07:00

Well, Grace has found the toilet paper, and absolutely loves to crawl very quickly over to the roll hanging on the wall, get up on her knees (sometimes not quite close enough, so she readjusts herself), then reaches up to that loose peice just hanging there, and pulls. She pulls, and she pulls, and she pulls.... as long as I let her. Sometimes it is only a few seconds, but other times I just can't help but to let her pull it clear off the roll because she is just having so much fun with it. Never mind the fact that my bathroom floor has all of the toilet paper she has pulled off in a big pile, she has fun doing it. You can tell she really enjoys unrolling all of that paper. ;) Above are a few pics of her when I caught her doing this before her bath on Saturday night. She looks shocked that I caught her yet again lol. ;) Hope you enjoy these as much as I did. Never a dull moment ;)

Who doesn't like swinging???

2010-03-26T04:58:00.000-07:00

Who doesn't like swinging????? Grace! On Wednesday of this week it was beautiful out and decided it would be the perfect day to take Grace to the park. We had never been to the park, and I had driven by a few days before and noticed they had baby swings! Perfect, I thought.... what a wonderful way to spend an afternoon with Ms. Gracie. ;) I was so excited. I picked her up from Wee-School, and off we went to the park. It was a beautiful day, sunny and about 60 degrees, I thought for sure she would love the swings. I put her in the baby swing, and we lasted all of 2 minutes before she started screaming lol. So, I took a quick picture, and then got her out, and thought maybe she would like it better if mommy swang with her. So, we headed over to the bigger swings. I put her on my lap, and started swinging, and she immediately started screaming again. Our trip to the park lasted all of 8 minutes, and that includes walking time to and from the car lol. Who doesn't like to swing???? I should have known better though, she hates her swing at home and pretty much always has. But, I thought with the sun out, the wind blowing, and just being at the park might have made the difference..... but I was wrong lol. I'll keep trying though, hopefully one of these days she will enjoy the wonderful feeling of flying thru the air on a swing. ;)

Gracie and Mommy's first vacation ;)

2010-03-19T02:13:00.001-07:00

Grace and I finally took our first vacation last week to Florida with Grandma, Auntie Kyla, and our good friends LaQuesha, Lee, and Miyah. We had so much fun on our trip. We were gone a little over a week, and spent time on Clearwater Beach, Tarpon Springs, and Disney World during our stay in the Sunshine state. Gracie experienced a lot of firsts including, first time touching sand, going to the beach, swimming in a pool, and going to Disney World. She loved all of the experiences so much, but I have to say, she didn't really like the sand in her toes too much. I didn't think she would though. She has issues with just that little bit of fuzz that accumulates in her toes from wearing socks lol. I feel so blessed to have been able to take her on this trip, and blessed that we were able to go with everyone that went with us. We created some wonderful memories that we will have for a lifetime, moments that I will hold close to my heart always. ;)

My little flower.... ;)

2010-02-21T22:25:00.000-08:00

So the other day, Ms. Gracie, I and her Auntie Kyla went shopping. We spent the whole day going to different stores and just enjoying the day with one another. Grace was so good the whole day, she loves to be out with me no matter what it is we end up doing. The only activities she is not too fond of are the movies, and going to the Dr. ;) Anyways, while we were out we went to Target, and found the cutest flower petal headband. Then we found the sweetest pair of sunglasses that matched the cutest flower petal headband. ;) Of course we had to put both on Gracie, and attempt to take a picture. It has become a little more difficult to take pictures of Grace in cute accessories over the past few months since she has figured out how to take the accesories off. Nontheless though, we were able to quickly snap the above pictures before she ripped the flower headband and the sunglasses off. ;) Hope you enjoy these as much as I did. She is by far the sweetest flower I have ever met in my life. ;) I love you Gracie, and I'm sorry for dressing you as a purple flower and then posting the pictures on my blog for all to see. I just can't help myself. ;)

Gracie's new highchair

2010-02-07T17:46:00.000-08:00

Well, Gracie has officially been banned from her bouncy seat as of yesterday. She has figured out how to climb out of it in about 5 seconds flat. So, we have replaced the bouncy seat with a highchair. More straps, and less ability to move at all lol. She loves it at this point at least. We opted for one that can be raised and lowered to different heights. So, if I want to sit on the floor to feed her I can, or at the table. It is a great highchair, and the best thing about it.... it has lots of straps to keep her safe. ;) I have a feeling she is going to be a climber. I just have to keep staying one step ahead of her, which is getting a lot harder the faster she becomes ;)
So, here are a few pictures of her in her new highchair. She was so happy to sit up like a big girl and be able to eat finger foods because there was an actual tray to eat them off of. ;) She is growing up so quickly! ;)

Blessed and so Grateful...

2010-02-02T20:50:00.001-08:00

I had the opportunity to be off for 5 days with my baby just this past week, and it was so nice to have that uninterrupted time with her. For the most part it was just her and I spending time together, playing, laughing, napping, and cuddling. Oh, how I love that time with her so much. She truly is the biggest blessing I have ever been given in my life. I feel so grateful that she is mine, and that she is healthy, happy, and thriving every day. I say it all of the time, but I don't know what I would ever do without her. She is my light, and the one person that has my whole heart. Everytime I think the love I have for her couldn't grow anymore, it does, and everytime she looks at me the way in which she only looks at me, my heart grows even more as well. I do feel so blessed, that she is mine; that I may call her my daughter, and she may call me mommy. ;) I love you Gracie...so, so, so much.

Three Days in Words...(stolen from my friend Kim ;)

2010-01-27T21:07:00.000-08:00

Grace
Grace
Grace
Yo Gabba Gabba
Bottle
Fruit
Veggie
Snow
Dinner
Grandma
Grandpa/Dad
Snow
Roads
Scary
Work
Alisha
Crystal
New baby
Worry
Food
Work
Home
Sleep
Grace
Grace
Grace
Grandma
Ride
Kim
Work
work
Alisha
Angie
Snow
Lonely
Kim
Bachelor
Sleep
Shower
Email
Grace
Grace
Grace
Directions
packing
Fruit/Veggie
Bottles
Formula
PJ's
Carla
Teenagers ;)
Chikfila
Work
Alisha
Baby
Lyla
Work
Movie
Bath
Big Girl Bed
Update
Fun
morning
Grace
Grace
Babysitter
Grace
Grace
Grace
Cuddle
Love
Sleep ;)

8 months old!

2010-01-13T22:44:00.001-08:00

Well, my baby is officially 8 months old as of the 12th of January. Where does the time go? It seems as though it was only yesterday that she was just born. Everyone said she would grow quickly, but I never realized just so quickly she would grow. She is still working on crawling, although she is doing so much better. She is up on all fours and rocks back and forth a lot. Every once in awhile she will move one knee, and one hand at the same time, but not consistently yet. She communicates thru signing a lot more, and it is so awesome to see her understand what I am saying to her and for her to sign back. Even though she can't verbaly communicate with me, she is communicating with me thru her hands. ;)
She is also eating table foods now, and finally has started picking up little pieces of food with her thumb and index finger. She loves to sing with me when I sing the Itzy-bitzy spider and Twinkle Twinkle Little Star, those are her two favorite songs. She is full of energy, and always so very sweet. I know I say it all the time, I just don't know what I would do without her. She is my everything. It is so beautiful watching her grow and change every day. Happy Birthday my sweet baby girl, mommy loves you so much. xoxo

Our First Christmas! ;)

2010-01-02T19:18:00.001-08:00

Gracie and I celebrated our first Christmas together this year, as many of you know, and it was perfect in my eyes. I couldn't have asked for a better holiday season. Even though it is just her and I in our little family, I felt more complete than ever before. We spent the majority of our time with my mom, dad, and sister doing dinner, church, and Christmas day activities. Her and I did spend some time alone just the two of us cuddling on the couch together...our special "mommy and Gracie" time. ;) As far as unwrapping presents and Santa, she didn't quite get the hang of unwrapping presents, but had no problem unwrapping the ones under the tree before Christmas when she wasn't supposed to lol. Next year, I think she will understand unwrapping and Santa better. I'm looking forward to that, but don't want to wish the time away. It seems that it is going so fast as it is. I can't believe she is almost 8 months old now. Where does the time go? I included some pictures from Christmas. The first is of her playing on the floor on Christmas morning, the second one is of her on Christmas eve during the day when we were relaxing, and the last picture is from our Christmas card this year. ;) I took that picture myself while we were playing one evening at home. She was full of smiles that night. ;) We hope you and your family had a wonderful holiday season as well. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from our little family to yours! ;)

Over the last ten years....

2010-01-01T03:51:00.000-08:00

Memorable moments of the last decade...

While living in NYC, my mom and sis came to visit, it was the most wonderful visit I ever had with them, I had missed them so much, I truly cherished every moment with them.

My daughter and I.... the biggest blessing I have ever been given.

Ms. Gracie and I again...

My apartment in New York, my home away from home...

Me pregnant with Gracie. My friend Kim took this picture. She truly captured the joy I felt while carrying my baby. ;) This moment, above all others, was the best moment of my life so far.

I have read several posts from my blog friends that have posted stories on this topic, and decided to post one as well because I loved it so much. I think it is important to learn about yourself whenever possible, and as we move into 2010, I think it is the perfect opportunity to reflect on the last ten years of my life. What we have all done, came to be, went thru, overcame, and have grown to know about ourselves are major accomplishments that we should reflect on to realize how we have all changed over time.
~I have learned that moving to a different place where you may not know a soul can be scary, invigorating, and amazing all at the same time. That you always take with you the memories of the people you have left behind, and no matter how far the distance is between you and the people you have left behind, it is really not far at all. They are always just a phone call away, and the memories you have made with them will be tatoo'd on your heart for a lifetime.
~I have learned that it is wonderful to have someone to depend on, but it is best to ensure that you can depend on yourself for everything. Relying on someone else to not let you down almost always leads to disappointment.
~The term "family" consists of whatever you percieve it to be in your heart. My family is Gracie and I.
~Watching your child play, and look up at you as she recognizes that you are "her Mommy" is the absolute most perfect look that you can ever see. It will melt your heart and bring tears to your eyes.
~Finding happiness with someone else won't happen until I am truly happy with myself.
~ Eating a whole box of donuts will definitely make me sick for days. ;)
~ Having a relationship with God truly completes me. My walk with him has changed so much over the last decade; changed for the better.
~I am so thankful for my family. For the longest time I traveled the country in search of my "home" to realize that "home" is right where I left it ten years ago (near my family). Although, it took me leaving and exploring other places to learn that.
~Living in New York made me a bit harder, and a bit stronger all at the same time.
~Paying it forward not only puts a smile on someone else's face, but also puts a smile on my own.
~Being pregnant and carrying my child was the greatest gifts I was ever given. Even though I was alone while I was pregnant, I never felt alone because she was always with me.

Christmas Party at the Children's Museum ;)

2009-12-14T19:06:00.001-08:00

Well, we went to the Children's Museum on Saturday for Lily's Christmas Party. Grace got to meet Santa for the first time. At first she was a little scared, but after a few seconds she noticed his bright white hairy beard. Her eyes got huge, and she started playing with it and forgot all about the fact that she was sitting on some strange man's lap. There were many other "firsts" that night as well. She rode the carousel for the first time, and loved it of course. Everytime we would go around and see Grandma and Meemaw she laughed so hard. She also tried frozen yogurt for the first time. She wasn't quite sure of it. I think the cold was a bit much for her. She made a very sour face with each bite, but then after she had swallowed it, smiled really big. Lastly, she attempted to open her first Christmas present. It amazes me that she pretended as though she didn't know what to do with it, when everytime I put her down on the ground and turn my head for a second, she crawls right over to the presents under the tree, and opens any she can get her hands on. ;) I have rewrapped all of the presents under my tree now at least twice. Next time, I am just going to leave them and give the presents out and explain that I didn't want to waste anymore trees ;) Anyways, all in all it was a wonderful night. It was so neat to see Christmas thru Grace's eyes as she was seeing all of the magic for the first time. Life is truly so much more magical thru a child's eyes, and I am so blessed to finally have a child of my own to share all of life's magic with. ;) I love you Gracie. ~ Love, Mommy

Almost Crawling! ;)

2009-12-03T17:31:00.001-08:00

Well Gracie is close to crawling! She will now stay up on her hands and knees and rock back and forth, but cant yet get up there on her own yet. ;) She is so cute though when she is put up on her hands and knees, she makes this face that tells me she is so pleased with herself. I am very happy that she is progressing so quickly, but I have to say, I am so worried that when she starts going she isn't going to stop lol. Watch out world.... Gracie is going to be mobile soon! She is already into everything when I am just holding her. If I have her on my hip, and am fixing her a bottle, she is pulling my calender down off the wall lol. She is always trying to get into something. So, hopefully I will have a few more weeks to get ready for my little Ms. Gracie to be mobile ;) Im preparing the house as we speak. ;) Wish us luck!

Say Cheese Gracie

2009-11-30T01:01:00.001-08:00

Well Gracie has figured out what the camera does, or at least what mommy's camera does. All of a sudden last week I put the camera up like I was going to take a picture, and she smiled really big, and this is the picture I got. It looks like she is crying, but she is just smiling huge. ;) This is the smile she gives me when I walk into a room and see her, or pick her up from the babysitter's in the afternoon. I love this smile, it is a smile that she only gives me....although now, I am able to share it with all of you. At 6 months of age, I am not sure she is supposed to know what the camera does, or what she is supposed to do when she sees the camera, but she does. ;) What a big girl she has gotten to be already.

MaMa! ;)

2009-11-12T19:28:00.000-08:00

On November 9th, my little Gracie said, "Mama" for the first time. ;) We were driving in the car, and she was in the back saying, "Mmmmmmmm", and I kept saying, "Say MaMa"... I finally had given up, and had moved on to asking her how her day was (and yes, I know she wouldn't answer that either, I just always ask ;), and out of the blue, she starts to say, "MaMaMaMaMaMa". She repeated it a few more times, and now I catch her saying it all the time. ;) She doesn't know what it means yet, but that is ok. I know someday she will. It melts my heart now though every time I hear her say that. Her first word, and it was "MaMa". ;) What a big girl. ;)

Our First Ponytail! ;)

2009-11-08T23:19:00.001-08:00

Well, Gracie finally has hair long enough to put up in a ponytail. In this picture she has a little ponytail in her hair, and just looks like such a big girl to me. ;) She is growing up so quickly, I can hardly believe it. Wow, how time flies.

My little Sugar Bear

2009-11-08T23:09:00.001-08:00

So, here is my little Sugar Bear, in her "Sugar Bear" hat from BAbyMelons.com. This is the latest "Hat of the Month", and I have to say this is my favorite one so far ;) She just looks so cute in it, and most importantly, it is functional. Yippee! We got it on Friday afternoon, and have been wearing it all weekend, with tons of compliments from people saying how cute it is. (I wish I would have thoght of making hats for babies. What a genius idea). ;) Anyways, we certianly do love our hats, and it is always fun to get another one in the mail. We love being surprised at the winner every month. I hope you enjoy the Sugar Bear as much as I do!

My little Flower ;-)

2009-11-01T23:32:00.000-08:00

Well, for this halloween Gracie ended was a flower, however, a sick flower
:( She has been overly congested and coughing now for a few weeks. She seemed to be more congested over the weekend, so our halloween plans got thwarted. I was really excited to take her out to see all the other kids in their costumes, and well, finally be able to go trick or treating again... since I have a child of my own;) So, imagine my sadness when I came to the realization that it probably wasn't a good idea to take her out in the chilly air on Saturday evening. Our Halloween wasn't very exciting, but it was still good because we were able to spend it together. We went to see Grandpa and Grandma so that they each could see her in her outfit, but we actually were just in our halloween outfit, not the costume lol. We only had the costume on for maybe 20 minutes the whole day. ;) I put it on her at the end of the night, to take pictures. As you can see by the picture, she really wasn't herself, but I had to snap at least a few in her first halloween costume. I am looking forward to many more cute costumes to come (and many more halloweens of "trick or treating". ;) We hope you all had safe, and wonderful halloween holidays this year. ;)

Happy Halloween Everyone ;)

2009-10-23T20:36:00.000-07:00

Happy Halloween! I just wanted to send this quick post out wishing everyone a happy Halloween and Happy Fall. We are trying to decide on halloween costumes for this year, and I was hoping to incorporate me into her costume. Right now, she is going to be a flower... so I was thinking I would be a sun. What I was really hoping for was to be a Kangaroo, and Grace could be my little Roo, but I am having trouble finding costumes for that idea. So, if any of you have any suggestions on where we could come up with those costumes, that would be great. ;)
As far as we are concerned, Grace and I are doing pretty good. She was sick for most of last week and is finally feeling better I think. I am hoping that we are done with the illnesses for awhile. She has also cut two teeth, which I am sure doesn't help her feeling crummy. She looks like such a big girl, and when she bites on my fingers.... OUCH! ;) Glad I am not breastfeeding anymore lol. However, I really wish there was a way to make the teething pain completely go away, but I know that is impossible. We have become good friends with Tylenol, lots of cuddling, and teething tablets to thwart the symptoms a bit. Wish us luck on the rest of them, I have been told by other moms that it only gets harder.

Other than that though, she is amazing. She lights up my life everyday, and has such a personality. Her favorite thing to do right now is to wake up very early in the morning and laugh when I pick her up out of her crib. She thinks that her early morning play date is the funniest thing for some reason. Maybe because she knows that mommy is really tired lol. She takes her hands, on either side of my neck, sqeezes really hard, and squeals with such enthusiasm. It just melts my heart. She is immitating all sorts of sounds, laughing, and loves being in her exersaucer (as long as she knows mommy is nearby). I was lucky enough to get the exersaucer at a garage sale for 5 dollars, to see if she would like it before I spent too much money on one (which she does ;), but if I walk by her too much when she is in there, she gets a little upset with me. She wants to know why mommy isn't sitting with her on the floor next to the exersaucer and playing with her. Grace hasn't quite figured out that the exersaucer is not only great exercise for her, but also a way for mommy to get some things done on her own lol. She is of course chewing on everything, but her favorite toy is a teether that has tigger on it. Her face lights up when she sees tigger, and the sounds that the tigger teether makes, well they are just terrific in her eyes. ;) So, that is our update for now, we hope everyone is doing well also, and we wish you all a Happy Fall and Halloween. ;)
Pictures of the costume to come.... ;) (when we figure out what we are going to be lol).

My punkin at the pumpkin patch... ;)

2009-10-10T19:16:00.000-07:00

My sister and I took little Ms to the Pumpkin patch and Harvest Festival today, and had such a good time. It was a beautiful way to spend a Saturday afternoon. We went on a hayride to the patch, looked at pumpkins, drank apple cider, and went thru the corn maze. ;) Gracie loved watching the other children at the festival. She was full of smiles. ;)

4 months old ;)

2009-10-08T01:46:00.000-07:00

On September 12 my baby girl turned 4 months old. This is a picture of her was taken on her 4 month birthday. I love this picture of her. She just looks so grown up in this picture (yes, I know... she is only 4 months lol, but still ;). Happy Birthday little Gracie! Mommy loves you so very, very much.... more than fish in the sea, and stars in the sky. xoxoxo

Our first time being sick....

2009-10-08T01:32:00.001-07:00

So, a few weeks ago, little Gracie got her first cold. As you can see from the picture, she looked rather pitiful. A few weeks ago, I would never have posted this picture, but now looking back on it, I am so glad I took a picture of this time so that I would have it journaled for her baby book. She was running a fever on and off for about a week, and also had a runny "red" nose, watery eyes, and it was obvious that she just did not feel well. We spent the majority of the week at home just cuddling on the couch with each other until she showed me signs that she was beginning to feel better. It was so hard to see my baby girl not feel well, and feel helpless because I couldn't immediately make her feel better. It was Gracie's first cold, and her mommy's first realization that worrying is part of the never-ending job of a mommy. ;) I am happy to report that she did get better, but it did take a little over a week for her symptoms to improve. Now, she is full speed ahead again, and is her perky, happy energetic self. ;) I still say what cured her was our cuddling together on the couch ;)

Look mom! I'm sitting! ;)

2009-09-30T19:28:00.002-07:00

I just realized it has literally been over a month since I have written on my blog. Boy, how time flies when your having fun lol. Grace is doing so well, she just surprises me each day with something new. I know I say it all the time, but I don't know what I would do without her. ;) In this picture she is sitting up. She is only four and a half months old...so that is a big accomplishment. The longest she has gone is 4 minutes without help. She is pretty quick to balance if she starts to move one direction or another, however she still falls down some. We are definitely in the beggining stages. ;)
She has also started baby food and cereal. She likes sweet potatoes, pears, green beans, and loves peas. She will not open her mouth for peaches at all. It is really interesting. I give her a bite of peaches, and then she is done with me for the rest of the feeding session. She definitely has a mind of her own. ;)
I am enjoying being a mommy so much each day. There are days when I am very tired, but i wouldn't trade those days for anything else. Gracie is my pride and joy. ;)

Look mom! I'm sitting! ;)

2009-09-30T19:28:00.001-07:00

Armed and Ready for the Sun!

2009-08-13T10:46:00.000-07:00

Grace does not like the carseat AT ALL! She doesn't mind sitting in the seat, but hates riding in the car with no one back in the back to talk to her, and she doesn't like the sun either when it gets in her eyes. So.... you should see my car now. I have a Lamaze play screen on one side window, a mirror with a light in the back window, so I can see her and she can see me, and a screen on the other side window. Then, we put sunglasses on her face, a pacifier in her mouth,a pacifier strap hooked to the pacifier so if it falls out mommy can find it, and strap her in.... and she does pretty good. It only has taken me three months to come up with this system. Some would say, I am spoiling her, and that she needs to learn how to just sit in the car lol. Well, i am the one who has to listen to her scream hysterically while I am driving lol. With this as our way of doing things, she doesn't scream anymore! ;)

My baby is 3 months old!

2009-08-13T10:38:00.000-07:00

I cannot believe Grace is three months old as of yesterday. It seems like I just had her. I know, everyone keeps telling me that time will fly by when they are little, but I didn't think it would fly by this quickly. I am just in shock. She is rolling over both ways now, and is holding things and then bringing them to her mouth. She has found her fingers, and today she laughed for the first time. ;) That was heaven to hear her voice chuckle at her mommy...although I won't tell you all the silly things I had to do to finally get that laugh to come out lol. ;) It was worth it though. Life with Grace is wonderful. She is my little sidekick, that without her, I don't know what I would do. Life will never be the same, but my life is so much more beautiful with her as my daughter. I feel like God gave me the biggest gift by blessing me with her, and I am so grateful. ;)

What a face!

2009-07-26T13:31:00.000-07:00

What a face ;) I am working on "imitating" with Grace, and currently we are doing rasberry sounds (I know, probably not the first thing I should work on lol, but she thinks it is funny). This is her face she makes while she is trying to do the rasberry sound. The only thing missing is the spit bubbles! ~ wendy

Sunday Citar

2009-07-26T12:36:00.000-07:00

"The moment a child is born, the mother is born. She never existed before. The woman existed, but the mother never. A mother is something absolutely new".
-Rajneesh

This is so true. I love being a mother, that is why I decided to post this quote for the week. I do not remember what my life was like before Grace, but I don't really want to remember either. I would be lost without my little lady in my life. She has become so much a part of me, while also making me a better woman not only when I am with her but also when I am not with her as well. She has changed my life for the better ;)

Look Mommy! I'm holding things! ;)

2009-07-24T07:57:00.001-07:00

Grace is growing up so quickly. I know everyone kept telling me she would grow up so quick before my eyes, but I never thought it would be this quick. I just feel like she is changing every day. I lay her down for a nap, and she wakes up, and I see something new about her. How is that possible? I am just amazed. The latest new thing is that she is holding things in both of her hands, smiling, cooing a ton, and trying to imitate different faces and "rasberry" sounds. That is the funniest, because the only thing that really happens is a lot of spit bubbles come out of her mouth (still adorable to watch). I love how she tries so hard to imitate. It is just precious. ;) I hope you enjoy these pictures of her playing as much as I do.

A Beautiful Day with Family

2009-07-19T20:45:00.000-07:00

What a wonderful day we had today. My mom, sister, Grace, and I went to Brown County to see my Aunt Jill and her family. It was such a beautiful day. I felt good, which was really nice lol. It was actually the first day that I have had without any symptoms at all. I felt normal for the first time in a long time, and that is a rare, but beautiful feeling. ;) On top of that, it was just a great time with family and friends. We drove down in the afternoon, and spent some time just walking around town, doing a little shopping. Then we went to the Abe Martin Lodge in the state park and had dinner together. The scenery was spectacular. You can see in one of the photos in the background just how beautiful it was there. The family called this get-together the "Celebration of Life" because they were celebrating wedding anniversaries, birthdays, new babies, and retirements all together. Most importantly though, I walked away from this day celebrating good family and friends and moments like today that can never be replaced. It was just so relaxing, and such a beautiful way to spend a Sunday with family. Grace had a great time also, and really enjoyed walking around Brown County. Mom, Kyla, if you read this, I had a wonderful time with you today, and will remember this day always. I love you both so much. Moments like these will always be tatoo'd on our hearts. ~ wendy ;)

Grace's Dedication

2009-07-18T20:12:00.000-07:00

Today was a very special day for Grace and I. She was dedicated in our church at 6pm, and I just feel so happy for this day. It was such a wonderful time in which both my family and Teddy's family were able to get together, go to church, and then have dinner together afterwards. It meant so much to me to be able to stand up in front of my church and promise to raise my daughter in a christian home with christian values. It meant even more to me that I could share this moment with all of Grace's extended family (both mine and teddy's together). I love that not only did everyone get along with everyone else, they all had fun with each other also lol. This is so important to me for Grace's sake. This event not only was special because we made the dedication to Grace, but also because this was our first family event together and it went so well. ;) Family is so very important to me, and although our family situation is not necessarily the conventional "family", it is our family nevertheless, and I want her to always be able to have her whole family together for special occasions. As I told her dad, she will never have to be without one parent to celebrate with another. We will just have to celebrate together, even if it means just as friends! ;) So, here is a picture of my little Grace, although she lookes very grown up in this picture. She melts my heart every single day. ;)

My baby is 2 months old today!

2009-07-12T20:17:00.000-07:00

I look back over the last 2 months, and am astonished at how quickly time has flown by. I cannot believe my baby is 2 months old. She is officially 10 pounds, and 21 inches long! Okay, so I have said it before, but I will say it again, I am in love with my child. I love being a mommy, and I love being a mommy to Gracie. It is exhausting at times, but so worth every minute of missed sleep lol. She has changed so very much already. The most amazing thing though, is she knows who I am. She looks for me when she hears my voice, and when our eyes lock, I know she knows I am her mommy. Her eyes say so much even though she cannot yet talk. When I lay my head down at night to go to sleep, I cannot wait to wake up with her again. I find myself staring at her thinking how blessed I am to have been given such an amazing, beautiful gift. :)
Happy Two Month Birthday Gracie.... I love you more than there are fish in the sea, and stars in the sky. ;)

Playing with our friends....

2009-07-08T11:21:00.000-07:00

Gracie has a play gym that lights up, plays music, and and has lots of animals hanging from it. She loves watching everything move and light up, and we have officially named all of the animals on the mat for her. Her favorites are the butterflies "Barney and Bianca". (Don't ask me how I came up with the names... the only thing I made sure to do was to name them names that start with the same letter as the animal in which they are lol (that way I can remember them ;). Here are a few pictures of her looking at her friends on her play gym.

Happy Fourth of July!!!!!

2009-07-04T15:52:00.000-07:00

Today was the Fourth of July, it was Gracie's first of course. She had a little red, white and blue outfit on that was super cute, and we spent the day lounging around at home with daddy. It was nice to just relax, and spend time with Gracie even though we didn't really have any plans to go anywhere or do anything. You can see the progression of the day, as we start bright eyed, and by this afternoon her and her daddy were asleep on the couch. ;) I think even though we were at home, we wore her out a bit. We hope everyone else had a wonderful Fourth of July also, whatever it was you all were doing to celebrate freedom in our country ;) In seeing what all is happening around the world today, I feel very blessed to live in a country where I am free to say what I want to say, wear what I want to wear, and have the rights I have. I realize our country has some areas that need some serious help, but I do feel blessed to be a citizen of the United States of America. Wishing you all a Happy Fourth of July! ;)

A little bit of Sunsine ;)

2009-07-04T12:11:00.000-07:00

Gracie is so much the sunshine of my life. Here is a picture of her while we were working on tracking different objects, cooing, and finding sounds.... ;) She is really starting to look towards noises, and will follow sounds. The sweetest thing that she is doing right now is following my voice. I notice that if I put her down and keep talking she will turn her head towards the sound of my voice. It is truly amazing to see how much she changes on a daily basis. She has started to coo saying "Ah" and "Oh" and loves to try and imitate the sounds of people's voices. I do not know what I would do without her in my life. She is my sunshine, my only sunshine. ;)

Almost Smiling at Mommy

2009-06-30T13:48:00.001-07:00

We are so close to smiling! This was this afternoon, and I was talking to Gracie about her day.... and I swear she was trying to smile at me. ;) She has been so vocal today, and is cooing up a storm. I just love all of her expressions she is making now. She lights up my life every day!

A Play Date with Miyah ;)

2009-06-29T19:56:00.000-07:00

Today Miyah and Grace got together for a playdate. ;) We had a great time visiting and playing. It was so nice to spend time with LaQuesha as well. They were very cute together.

Still in Awe that she is Mine....

2009-06-29T04:22:00.001-07:00

I am constantly in awe that Grace is mine. Every time I see her, I just want to pinch myself to make sure I am not dreaming and that I am in fact her mommy and she is really my baby. This picture was taken in the hospital when I had gotten admitted the second time. I was so sad that I had to leave her again, and was so afraid that she would forget me. On this particular day, I hadn't seen her in about 36 hours, and my mom brought her up so that I could spend some time with her. My mom gave her to me, and this is the first expression that Grace made when I started to sing to her the song I have been singing to her since she was inside of me "the Gracie song". The expression on her face made me realize that she wouldn't forget me even though I couldn't be with her since I was sick. There truly is something about the way a baby looks at their mother, and I feel so blessed to now have someone looking at me that way every day. ;)

Life upside down for a bit....

2009-06-28T08:49:00.000-07:00

I don't really even know where to start this post, because I really feel as though my life was turned upside down over the last month. After a pregnancy filled with preterm labor, gallbladder issues, hypertension, and polyhydramnios I finally had my beautiful baby girl on May 12. Gracie was placed in my arms, and I thought, "Finally, we are here! Gracie is safe and healthy, and I can finally be on the road to recovery from pregnancy! ;)" Then, unfortunately two weeks later I began to have this horrible feeling on my left side, that I have in the past referred to as the "annoying pain that can only mean one thing" came back. It had been absent from my body since 2004. In 2001 I was diagnosed with Ulcerative Colitis, and was very sick. I had an aggressive flare up that put me in the hospital for a month, with the plan to take my colon if steroids and immunotherapy could not put my UC in remission. The Steroids worked, and I recovered well, with another episode in 2003, and 2004. SInce then, I have been great (until this episode). Many things can kick it out of remission and one of them happens to be pregnancy (this, I didn't know. I mean, why would I need to know it? I haven't had a problem in 5 years right?). So, my pain started two weeks after I had my Gracie, and I knew that things were not good. However, I was in denial, and thought that it couldn't possibly be an issue of UC, why would it be? I tried so hard to get better on my own, but my symptoms kept getting increasingly worse. I finally had an epiphany on Friday June 13, when I realized that if I continued to ignore these symptoms in order to be able to stay home with Gracie and take care of her, she may not have me to take care of her for a lot longer later on. So, at 1:30 am my mom, Gracie and I head to the ER. The whole way there, I was so sad that I was going to have to rely on others to help me take care of my baby. I knew they would admit me, and I had been solely breastfeeding, and doing everything for her up until this point. No one had even changed a diaper lol.
Well, they admitted me, and I had to finally realize that others can help me with Grace, and she wold be fine. She would still know me as her mommy. I think that is a hard concept for a lot of new moms to grasp.
I was admitted to the hospital for 7 days, and then discharged. We thought the Dr's had figured out how to treat me, and I was so happy to go home and just be with Grace. Unfortunately, I was home for a little over 24 hours and all of my symptoms came back, worse than they were the first time around. I headed back to the ER, and was quickly admitted after a CT scan, and a White blood Ceil count confirmed that things were worse not better. I stayed another 6 days and was discharged home on the 26th. Things are going well right now. I still am in some discomfort, but it has improved. I am just trying to get as much rest as possible, and I am letting others help lol. I feel like things always happen for a reason, and I have to try to find a reason that all of this has happened. I definitely realize now that I can accept help with Gracie. I don't have to try and do it all on my own.... which for some reason I thought I needed to lol. My mom, dad, and sister have helped so much with her over the past few weeks, and I think it will definitely make the transition back to work a lot easier now that I have already left her alone. I have already had to take her to day care a few times too because of this ;)and she did great there also.
So, I am hoping as I am writing this that we are finally on the mend of getting better, and I can finally recover from pregnancy and my UC. The thought of returning to some normalcy is such a wonderful thought! Although, I don't know if I remember what normalcy is, but Grace and I are going to define it together now. ;)
To all of you who came by to visit while I was in the hospital, thank you. For all the prayers, thank you also. I appreciate them so much, and know they were answered. I don't know what I would do without my wonderful friends and family. You all are so special to me. ;)

2009-06-06T16:54:00.001-07:00

Grace and Miyah finally meet! ;)

2009-06-04T08:52:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough to be pregnant at the same time as one of my dear friends LaQuesha. Her and I both found out early on in on pregnancies that we were having little girls, and were so excited. We both look back on our pregnancies now thinking they flew by, but at the time.... we thought we were never going to meet our little ones. ;) We both can't believe that Miyah and Grace are finaly here! Grace was able to meet Miyah for the first time last night, and this was such a special moment to both Laquesha and I. It was surreal to finally have our girls together in the same room (and not inside our belly's anymore ;) LaQuesaha and I have become such good friends over these last nine months and I am so grateful to be able to call her my friend. I don't know what i would do without her. I am so looking forward to watching Grace and Miyah grow up together and be the best of friends also. I think I heard Grace tell Miyah last night that "this is the start of a beautiful friendship" and I think I heard miyah respond, "for sure my little friend" ;).

2009-06-01T00:47:00.000-07:00

Our First Tub Bath... ;)

2009-05-31T20:48:00.000-07:00

We had our first tub bath last night, and Grace loved it! She loved the water, and was so relaxed in the bathtub... then I got her out lol, and she didn't like that at all ;) She definitely told me all about it. This picture was taken right before we went in the tub, and I had to post it because she was wide awake and just looking so gosh darn sweet. I cannot begin to express just how much I love my little girl, my life is completely fulfilled now. I have never known a love like this before. :)

2009-05-28T20:11:00.000-07:00

Grace trying to decide if she is going to sleep, or if she wants to eat more. She decided she wanted to eat more lol. We slept about an hour later. ;) She definitely loves to eat! ;)

Sleeping Grace

2009-05-28T20:02:00.001-07:00

My little miss.... ;)

2009-05-28T19:44:00.000-07:00

I wanted to post another picture of "my little Miss", and let everyone know that we are doing great. Grace and I are finally getting into a routine, and figuring everything out. Her bilirubin was elevated for a few days so we had a bili light at home, but it has finally come down now. Thank goodness, because that bili light was just annoying lol, we were permanently in one area of the house because we had to stay "plugged in" ;). She weighed 7 pounds 0.1 ounce this past Wednesday when we went to the doctor, so we have finally surpassed her birthweight! We are eating every 2 hours, and for an hour at a time (yes, even at night)... so mommy feels like she is always eating, but it is so worth it to see her grow and get bigger everyday. She changes so much every day. I truly cannot imagine my life without her in it. I feel as though all of my dreams have come true, being a mommy is the greatest feeling in the world. Thank you to all of you who have called to check on me, I appreciate all of the cards, texts, and phone calls. You all are truly wonderful friends! ;)
~ Wendy and little Miss Grace

The day i met my daughter for the first time.

2009-05-15T21:11:00.000-07:00

My dreams finally came true on May 12th 2009 at 325pm, because that is the day I met my daughter, Grace Karinna-Evelyn. I don't know now what i ever did without her, and cannot imagine my life without her in it. I am completely happy, and feel blessed more than I can put into words. As you can see from the pictures, she is very cute (although, I know I may be biased..lol), but I am in love with her. ;) She was 6lbs 12 ounces, and 19 inches long. Thank you to all of you who stopped by and saw me in the hospital, and for all of you who sent their prayers and warm wishes to us. I appreciate them so very much. I will write more about her a bit later, going to hopefully catch a few zzzz's before she wakes up again. ;)

Gracie and Mommy

2009-04-29T16:34:00.000-07:00

I was lucky enough today to have a good friend of mine, Kim Blakeman take pictures of my "baby bump", my first pictures of me with my baby girl Gracie. Although she is still inside of me, she already had a mind of her own. We put these blocks on my belly, and she thought it would be fun to kick them off. It was really cute, even though we were trying to get the perfect picture. We finally were able to get her to sit still to capture some beautiful pictures. Kim did a wonderful job of truly capturing the beauty that I have seen in my pregnancy. I will always cherish these images, and I know little Gracie will too. I am 37 weeks pregnant today actually, and according to my doctor, will probably be pregnant until my due date lol. We were so worried about prematurity, and now Gracie has decided to set up shop for at least three more weeks probably. She definitely has a mind of her own, which I love. She is alreay an independent woman, just like her mommy. I will keep you all posted if anything changes. As long as my BP stays down, and I have no other issues come up, they want to just let her come when she is ready. Thank you all for all of your prayers, and warm wishes. They mean so much to me.

Happy Easter ;)

2009-04-12T20:36:00.000-07:00

Well, today was Easter and I have to say it was a beautiful day here in Indiana. As many of you know, I have been limited to the amount of activity I have been able to do over the past week because I started going into preterm labor last monday followed by a bought of high blood pressure. Today was the first day that I was able to be up and moving around a little bit, although making certain I did not overdo it. I have been going a bit stir crazy, but have to admit I have not been feeling all that well anyways. I have been spending the majority of my time nestled in on my mom's fold-out sofa in her home (in her living room, that no longer looks like a living room because of me lol). This past week unless it was to go to the dr, I didn't leave the confines of her home....major stir crazy setting in.
My blood pressure was improved yesterday evening, so I decided I would celebrate Easter with my family in church, and I am so happy I did. The church service was beautiful, but most importantly I was able to get out for a little bit, and celebrate with my family this beautiful day that Christ gave to us. My sister was able to come home as well, and that made it perfect. I feel so blessed to have the wonderful family that I have, I hope they know just how much they mean to me also, and how lost I would be without them. The picture is of my sister and I after church. I was extremely tired after just that little bit of activity lol, although my blood pressure was still within normal limits. ;) I do have to admit though, I ended the afternoon with a five hour nap. ;) Obviously I needed it! I hope everyone enjoyed their day today as well. To those of you who have been so sweet to check on me, thank you so much. It means a lot to me. God Bless and Happy Easter, or as my sister says.... "Hoppy Easter" ;)

Another Celebration for baby Grace

2009-04-05T17:44:00.000-07:00

I am a little late in adding these pictures, but finally I am getting to it. On March 28th, my sister threw me a baby shower to celebrate Grace also. This was her first party she ever planned, and I know was very nervous about standing up and talking in front of everyone, but she did a wonderful job. I am so proud of her! The shower was beautiful just like the one that Angie and Marty threw for Grace the week before. I felt so blessed to have so many people come to celebrate with me over those two weeks, and I know one day Grace will look back at the pictures and see just how many people loved her before she had even made her entrance into the world. ;) The pictures posted on here are of me, my mom, and my sister, and then my friend Jen and I. Jen was my biggest surprise of the shower. Her and I met when we were 2 years old. We got the chicken pox together, and then were quarantined to a bedroom at the babysitter's house (thinking that would prevent the spread lol), and we became the best of friends. We have stayed in touch over the years, and when I moved to New York (where she was already residing), I thought for sure we would finally be able to see each other more than a few times a year. Well, then she met Mr. Right, and off she went to Texas (only two months after I got to NYC). I had no idea she would be coming to my shower, and when I walked in and saw her there with her mom, I was in tears immediately (happy ones of course). I was so grateful she could be with me to share in celebrating the upcoming birth of my daughter. I hope that Grace will find a lifelong friend like I found in Jen 30+ years ago. ;)
As far as the pregnancy, things are going well. I am still having periods where my gallbladder is acting up and the occasional problem with my ulcerative colitis, but I know all it is worth it. Grace is very active, I keep praying that she will turn so that she is head down so that a c-section will not be necessary. I really want to be able to go into labor naturally, so that I will be able to experience that part of things. The element of surprise is important to me, although, the pain.... well, I am just worried I won't be very nice when I am in that much pain lol. I have no intention of natural childbirth ;), an epidural (that works) is just fine with me! ;)
Anyways, that is about all for now. Thanks for listening.... and if you have a moment, please say a prayer for a "heads-down" positioning for my upcoming 36 week ultrasound in two weeks! ;)

In Celebration of Baby Grace

2009-03-28T08:05:00.000-07:00

On March 22nd, my good friends Angie and Marty threw little Grace and I a baby shower. It was a beautiful shower, and I do not think words alone could express how much it meant to me that they did this for Grace and I. Along with Angie and Marty, many of my good friends, and some of my family came to celebrate Grace. It was a beautiful day. We played the "dirty diaper game" where you melt chocolate candy bars in diapers, and then everyone has to guess what kind of candy is in each diaper (totally fun, and the pics we got of people smelling diapers was priceless;). We also played "how big is wendy's belly" where everyone had to guess how big my belly was by taking off enough toilet paper to go around my belly. It was funny to see how big people thought I was (and some thought I was really big! Which I am lol). It really was a beautiful day. I really cannot believe that there is only about 8 more weeks until she will be coming into the world. I think, despite being uncomfortable, I am going to miss being pregnant and having her so right with me all the time. She makes my world so much brighter, and she hasn't even been born yet ;) I hope everyone that came, or was involved, knows how much it meant to me that they took a little time out of their day to think of Grace and help us celebrate her coming arrival. I feel so very blessed to have so many people in my life that are so supportive and encouraging. I don't know what I would do without you all. Thank you so very much!

Home Sweet Home :)

2009-03-28T07:45:00.000-07:00

On March 13th, I moved into my new apartment, and these are a few pictures of the initial move in. I have a long way to go before everything will be in its place, and not quite so disorganized, but this is the progress that was made in the first few days. It seems a lot more difficult to do while I am pregnant, (I'm not normally quite so slow lol). It is now the 28th of March, and I am still working on getting everything done. However, despite the fact that things are still not exactly the way I want them at this point, Grace and I finally have our own home for the two of us, and I have to say, no matter where home is - whether in a house or an apartment, there really is no place like home.

Really, a New Beginning

2009-03-12T11:51:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow, I am making my move. I am officially moving into my own place at 2:30pm. A cozy little apartment for me and Gracie to make our own. To many of you, you know what this means to me. I have not lived alone since 2000! I have traveled around the country so much, Chicago, Phoenix, Manhattan that I always had a roommate, so this will be the first time in eight and a half years that I will have my own space. Never in a million years did I think I would find myself settling down in my hometown of Greenwood Indiana. There is something to be said though about family, and the importance of being near them. I wonder sometimes if exploring the country was what made me realize that there is really "no place like home". It is a wonderful feeling. I am mixed with emothions, but mostly I just feel happy because I finally will have a place that is just for me and Grace. A place that is ours to call "Home". I think sometimes we take for granted the importance of having our "own space" until we don't have one anymore. I am sure initially I will not know how to act being in my own apartment, not having to worry about putting on a robe before I leave my bedroom, being able to walk around in a towel after a shower, wondering if I will have a television to watch Desperate Housewives on Sunday night lol, or trying to remember if that apple in the fridge is mine to eat or someone elses, but I am certain I will enjoy the "adjustment period". ;) I know those things seem like minor things to some people, but it is sometimes the simplest things that we tend to take for granted until we do not have the ability to do them easily anymore. Don't get me wrong, I feel so blessed to have met all the people I have lived with over the last eight years. I have made friendships that will last a lifetime, and most have become my extended family, but am grateful to finally have a place that I will be able to call "my home".
Life has been such a journey for me already, and now I feel as though I am starting a new journey for me and my little Grace growing inside of me. Wish me luck, and please say prayers that everything goes smoothly tomorrow. (A Pregnant woman is not much help when it comes to moving lol). For those of you that have encouraged me, given a shoulder to lean on, and have been there during these past hard months.... I do not know how to adequately say thank you. Please know though, I feel so blessed to have friends and family like you all.

I think I have passed him up!

2009-03-10T03:24:00.000-07:00

This is my dad and I. We had a joke going since I was pregnant with Grace, and showing, as to whose belly was bigger. I had to post this picture, because it is official... I finally win the "bigger belly" contest lol. Looking at this picture really made me realize just how big my belly has gotten. ;) Here's to you daddy.... I didn't think I would win this one until closer to my due date. (Maybe you being on a diet has sped up my timeline lol).

A Little Bit of Grace

2009-03-10T03:02:00.000-07:00

So this is the latest belly picture of little Grace. She is now 29 and 5/7 weeks, and definitely getting bigger, kicking harder, and has already began to show me her little personality. I absolutely love being pregnant, even with the moments of being uncomfortable, it is still the most amazing experience in the world. I'm realizing this weekend that I really cannot do everything that I used to do lol. My family and I ran down to IKEA in Cincinnati on Saturday, ,and spent 6 hours in that store walking around. Well, needless to say, after that field trip, I spent the next two days laying on the couch because I could barely walk lol. I felt like an old woman. ;) Isn't that supposed to happen later on in motherhood?
Anyways, my family helped me tremendously this past weekend getting things together for my move that will take place on Friday of this week. I am officially moving down to Greenwood to be closer to my parents and sister for once Grace is born. They have helped me so very much this week, and just want to say thank you, thank you, thank you to them. (Without you guys, I would be lost - I love you guys so much ;).
I am headed to the doctor this am for another appointment. I will keep you all posted. Please say prayers that there are not any new developments, and Grace and I will be in and out in a matter of minutes! ;) Thank you all for your prayers so far. I just want her to stay safe inside until her due date so that she can be as healthy as possible.

I May Float Away... ;)

2009-02-24T21:09:00.001-08:00

Well, it has been a little while since I have written on my blog, so I thought I would give an update to the latest that has been going on in my world. I went for a doctors appointment yesterday morning, and discovered that I was large for my gestational age.... shocking, as I couldn't figure that out myself by looking in the mirror lol. I am short as it is, so my torso is short as well, and well.... there's not a whole heck of a lot of room in there for little Gracie. The doctor ordered an ultrasound, and we discovered that Grace is not large for gestational age (she is 2 pounds 6 ounces... right where she should be ;). However, I have too much amniotic fluid so am considered polyhydramnios at this point in my pregnancy. Everything looks good with Grace, I immediately went thru my differential diagnosis in my head of possible problems for her with the ultrasound tech (as medical professionals, we know too much). She stopped me after I asked about a few organs and asked what I did for a living (because most people don't just ask those types of questions when she tells them that they have an excess amount of amniotic fluid). I am of course still a little worried, so if you can say a few prayers for her I would appreciate it. I also did my gestational diabetes test yesterday, and the results will be back tomorrow. I am hopeful that I don't have to worry about that.
What else can I say? Oh, right now Grace is breech, but she has plenty of time to move before May 20th.
May 20th lol.... that is still approximately 3 months away.... oh my is all I have to say. I am a little worried at how uncomfortable I feel at times, I cannot even imagine how I will feel by May 20th lol. I am grateful though that she is still inside me and safe, and I pray that she will stay there until she is due. I figure I can handle any amount of discomfort if it means she can grow to term.
She is moving a ton, and very active. Right now her head is under my rib cage on the left side, with a foot up next to her head as well. I will say, I absolutely love, love, love, feeling her move, it is such a highlight of my day every day. Despite the moments of being uncomfortable, I wouldn't trade this experience for anything else in the world. I feel so very blessed. ;)

Not Me Monday

2009-02-02T13:08:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Not Me! Monday! This blog carnival was created by MckMama. You can head over to her blog to read what she and everyone else have not been doing this week.
**I did not spend all day last monday in bed watching the Law and Order Marathon on TNT, only to end up being admitted to the hospital on Wednesday morning (and being confined to a hospital bed to watch all the Law and Order I wanted over the next four days).

**I did not push my dinner with friends up on Monday evening so that I could be home in time to watch the Bachelor on television.

**I did not send my friend out at 130 in the morning in the middle of the snowstorm to get me Gatorade because i couldn't stomach anything else to drink.

**I did not bake cookies (that I could not eat any of) on Saturday evening for my friends to take with them so they would not have a snack on the plane when they went to Grand Caymans on Sunday morning.

**I did not miss church on Sunday morning because I did not sleep in. I did not turn my alarm off.

**I did not pay for the lady behind me in the drive thru at Starbucks just to not be nice, and not make her day a little brighter. I did not get a look of complete confusion by the drive thru attendant.

**I did not try fatty food after I had been just discharged from the hospital and told not to eat fatty food (if I didn't want to be uncomfortable) until after I had the baby. McDonalds is not a fatty food... NOT.

**I did not discover that pregnancy should be considered an Olypmic event this week when I almost fell over four times trying to put my underwear on.

Say what you mean and know what you say

2009-02-01T11:08:00.000-08:00

I have a funny little moment that I would like to share with all of you. Those of you that live here in Indiana are probably familiar with the outdoor mall called "Clay Terrace" right? Well, I have a family friend of ours who is from Brazil and he occasionally doesn't always say things quite with the same pronunciation as his American family and friends do because of his accent.
Well, just yesterday, we had gotten together briefly and he was talking about going shopping and said that he had just come back from "Clitoris". Of course, we all stopped what we were doing immediately and I think our jaws dropped to the ground hard. I asked, "what?". He said. "yeah, I just came from clitoris, and even though it was cold I got a lot of nice deals". I couldn't figure out what he was talking about until he told me it was over where Kinkaids was. Then it dawned on me, he was talking about Clay Terrace. I bet the Simon mall owners never thought it would be mistakenly called Clitoris instead of Clay Terrace ;). We did correct him, so he wouldn't accidently make that mistake in front of his fiance's family later on that night. I hope you all get a kick out of this moment. ;) I know I sure did.

On the Other Side of the Bed

2009-02-01T10:43:00.000-08:00

Well, on Wednesday of this past week, I found myself being admitted to the Labor and Delivery Unit for dehydration/GI issues, and all I have to say is that I had a really hard time being on the other side of the bed. ;)
This became very apparent by the following "moments" over my four day stay.

~ First, I was admitted during lunch time for the majority of the unit. That in itself was tough for me because I know how awful it is to get an admit during your lunch break. Any other time, it is not that big of a deal (except at 630 pm/am at the end of your shift). So, I apologized repeatedly for the horrible inconvience, and even told my admit nurse she could finish me after she ate... she of course didn't leave me to go eat, but I was hoping she would for her own sake.

~Trying to get my IV/blood drawn was a nightmare for the nurses as well. Anesthesiology had to come in each time my IV infiltrated (three times total), to start a new one. Forgetting I was the patient, and becoming a nurse again, I helped look for prime veins, helped tape and even connected my t-connecter and flush one time. I think the nurses thought I was crazy..... at least the ones who had never been a patient perhaps.

~On day three I was allowed to eat real food ;) After I ate though, I cleaned up my tray, and placed it close to the door so the nurses wouldn't have to carry it far (yes, still attached to my IV pole).

~I was caught walking around my room attached to my IV pole cleaning, as well as wiping off the counters around my bed, and my bedside table. I was of course, quickly reprimanded and sent back to bed.

~I kept track of my I's and O's for the nurses, even though no one asked me or needed me to. If they would have let me get my own sprite, water, and gingerale from the nourishment room I would have done so also, just to save them some time and extra walking.

~Once every eight hours for an hour, they monitored Grace (my little one growing inside of me). Being an active 24 weeker that she is, she was hard to keep track of, so I offered to hold the doppler for the hour rather than having them strap it on, so that we could chase her easier and keep a more contant strip of her during that time.

~You fellow nurses would be happy to know though that I never ever touched my IV pump to silence it when the bag was empty, no matter how annoying that sound became, especially at 2:30 in the am (lol ;).
I obviously have a lot to learn about being in the hospital.... ;) I wonder sometimes what they said about me during sign-out to one another.... (I actually cringe at the thought of that lol).

To all of you that came to visit me, THANK YOU SO MUCH. I appreciate it more than I can adequately express in words here. It was rather lonely in the hospital because of all the snow we got on Wednesday, my family was too far away and snowed in to get to me until late Thursday night, so you made me feel a little less lonely and a little less worried by checking in on me. I feel blessed to have friends like you.

I do also have to say thank you, thank you, thank you to all the nurses that did take such good care of me while I was there in L and D. You were awesome, made me feel much better, and were extremely patient with me... the nurse that didn't really know how to be a patient herself. ;)

A Moment of confusion and complete hysterical comedy while working in the NICU.

2009-01-23T13:35:00.000-08:00

So, you may have had to be here for this, but I have to tell this story because by the end of the shift of working all night, my fellow coworkers/friends and I still were laughing uncontrollably. Have you ever had one of those moments when what you wanted to say didn't come out exactly the way you had hoped? Well, this is what started this moment which had us crying we were laughing so hard. My friend Angie, noticed a nurse carrying a huge water cup out of one of the parents rooms.... she saw how big this cup was and said to the nurse carrying it, "Is that a water-drinker, uh you know, I mean a cup?". As soon as she said it, she knew she had completely said the wrong thing, and started laughing hysterically. A little later she came to tell me the story, and this is where it gets funny. Imagine there are a group of about four nurses standing around talking. Angie comes up and says one of the other nurses was carrying a "big-butt" cup out of a room (she meant big-a$$ cup), well I thought she really meant a "big-butt" cup. So, I said, "why does she need a big-butt cup?, I just learned what a sitz bath was yesterday". Then one of our other nurses, misunderstood me and said, "you don't know what a six pack is"? It was as if the blind was leading the blind... none of us were able to understand the other one and we were not even playing that silly game called, "Telephone". We were all taking so that we could hear one another, and still were not making any sense. By the time we told the story to one of our mom's that was staying the night in the morning, we were laughing so hard we were crying. We also made the mom laugh quite a bit too, making her day a little brighter also.
It is amazing to me how much fun we have at work. The NICU can be a very stressful place to work, but when you work with great nurses, the stress level becomes a lot more bearable, the work so much more enjoyable, and well the stories.... priceless. ;) And for future reference.... any water bottle is now known as a "water-drinker". ;)

Hope you enjoyed this story as much as we all did. ;)

The Latest News

2009-01-05T01:37:00.000-08:00

2008-11-16T22:14:00.001-08:00