yellow label

39 weeks, 6 days

2012-02-15T20:59:00.000-05:00

Perhaps she misunderstood the objective of a due date and feels she can only make her arrival on said date.

Tomorrow I will be 40 weeks pregnant.

That's technically 10 entire months -- of being pregnant.

You win, girlfriend. You've outlasted your big brother and I can say with enumerable passion that I have never, ever been this pregnant ever before.

I'm hoping (and wishing, and praying) for a due date baby.

*Note the packed hospital bag that has sat in that very spot for well over a month now.

I'm beginning to think it's superfluous to the occassion.

Downton Abbey

2012-02-15T20:46:00.000-05:00

via

After hearing and reading much fanfare surrounding the Masterpiece Classic series, Downton Abbey, I resolved to acquiesce to my initial reticence and promptly immersed myself in the propriety and estate of the family Crawley.

I can happily attest that I have not regretted my decision in the slightest. My mother in-law loaned me the first season so I have been able to watch at my leisure as the family drama unfolds. I am not only drawn to the characters and their well-developed personalities, but the visual fascination of the era is unparalleled. I adore the kitchen and the accoutrements therein, the dress and regality of the lives of Earls and Ladys, the architecture of the estate itself, and the overall vivid beauty of the show’s production.

All of this, and I am only one third of the way through the first season.

Whenever Miss Scout decides to arrive on the scene, I will be thankful to have a distraction to keep me awake during those middle-of-the-night feedings. You know, those feedings that my body has presently (conveniently) forgotten. I am relishing in a solid ten hours of sleep while I can still achieve since a feat.

Dear Mr. Longenecker

2012-02-14T19:59:00.000-05:00

Dear Mr. Longenecker,

My sweetest Valentine I love you ever so much. You fill my days with laughter and joy. I daydream about your smile and that scruffy beard all day long. My perfect match.

Happy Valentine's Day, my love.

Yours Forever <3

24 months old

2012-02-13T13:47:00.000-05:00

24 months old. 2 whole years.

We had your check-up this morning with the doctor and to say you were perturbed would be highly understating the normally stoic event. The doctor’s office is simply not a place you like to be, and you let myself, your grandmother, the doctor – and the entire office – know that most thunderously. Thank goodness for the patience of pediatricians and their willingness to shout over a screaming child. And no, shots weren’t even on the docket today.

There was all good news and no concerns to report whatsoever.

You weigh 24 ½ pounds which lowers you to the 15^th percentile (from the 20^th) and you are 35 inches tall keeping you steadily in the 75^th percentile.

At 2 years old you are:

· Talking up a storm and are a little parrot

· Just dying for the springtime so that you can run around outside

· Sleeping until 6:30 am, a nap from 12:30-2 or 3, and bedtime at 7 pm (or earlier depending on your afternoon)

· You went through a picky phase of eating but seem to be coming around again. Mealtime is easily one of my most frustrating times of the day with you, but I’m learning to be patient! I need to give myself more options to offer you throughout the day so that we aren’t falling prey to the same snack options every day. Your obsession with pretzels remains unmatched.

· Identifying many more colors, the most recent and favorite being ‘white’

· Still take a bottle of milk before bedtime but at this point with baby girl due to arrive any day, that isn’t changing anytime soon

· So inquisitive and intuitive; I love watching your mind work and problem solve

· Still quite enthralled with Mickey Mouse Clubhouse

· Have enjoyed playing with your new kitchen and making meals for Mommy and Daddy

· Mesmerized by a car or truck of any kind; they are your constant companion in at least one hand at all times

· Increasing your attention span and will now sit through an entire movie (usually Cars or some other Disney feature)

I know that I have not touched upon everything but this is a snapshot of your development and character after these 24 months. I love you more and more each day, Cutterbug!

Still Pregnant.

2012-02-13T13:28:00.000-05:00

This was taken over the weekend and lo and behold I am still pregnant. I am trying very hard to relish in these last few days of 'freedom' where I can go wherever and whenever with just Cutter - but the anxiety of meeting her has severely trumped all of that relaxing.

I must admit, I was more than relieved that she decided to curtail her arrival over the weekend. Cutter came down with his first stomach virus and it was admittedly a great distraction for me to set aside my anxieties and instead focus on caring only for him. I have been praying fervently that God would spare me from this malady that is coursing its way through the preschool 'give and share'; and praise Him almighty I seem to have escaped.

In the interim, Cutter is still a little lovey dovey (very uncharacteristic of him) and so I am soaking up those hugs and snuggles while I can devote my whole self to him.

*A glimmer of hope: I went into labor with Cutter at 39 weeks, 4 days...that would be today for Scout!

Cutter's Birthday

2012-02-11T19:32:00.000-05:00

I am finding it very hard to believe that the mister is now an official two years of age.

Friday was the official birthday of our own Cutterbug. We celebrated by decorating his door with balloons and streamers the night before, so that when he awoke they would be the first thing that he saw. When we heard him stir Friday morning, Steve and I went in and wished him a happy birthday, and as his eyes adjusted he quickly realized the fun that awaited him in the hallway. He was so thrilled and to revel in that joy with him just made my day.

In the morning, my MOPS group had planned a sprinkle for Scout, and Cutter had a great time playing with all of the kids. Of course he gorged himself on the delicious foods, namely the pink-frosted cupcakes; all in her honor of course. It was a great morning remembering the current blessing I have - and the one who is soon to come!

After his nap I had promised him we would watch "Race" or Cars. We have seen this movie countless times since Thanksgiving thanks to the provision of Steve's brother. He gifted Steve a tablet for his birthday and included Cars as one of the movies. At his birthday party last weekend, Grandma gave him Cars on DVD, so now of course we can watch anytime. I fear I have already memorized the feature in its entirety.

He was visited by his Grandma and had countless birthday greetings via e-mail, phone calls, snail mail and the like. We capped off the evening with an iced cupcake and yet another rendition of "Happy Birthday."

It was a two year old's dream come true.
Happy Birthday Cutterbug!

The morning; I'm 2 today!

Loving those balloons and streamers

Beguiled by the magic that is Disney - Cars

Birthday snuggles with Gramie

39 weeks

2012-02-09T20:03:00.000-05:00

39 weeks.

I have no words, people.

No words.

Love

2012-02-08T14:47:00.000-05:00

Gosh I sure do love this kid.

(And he sure does love his "race" AKA Lightning McQueen)

Cutter's Second Birthday Party

2012-02-07T23:01:00.000-05:00

Last weekend we celebrated Cutter’s second birthday. Yes, it was early, but seeing as how I could go into labor at any moment, we thought it best to usher in the third year of his life a week ahead of time rather than chance a party that could have been much more memorable for all involved. Lord have mercy I am so glad that my water did not break whilst in the midst of party revelry. I was infatuated with ensuring that the focus remained on him as I knew that the transition of welcoming a new baby would be an exacting and harrowing time for each of us.

Though I did set the date and get out invitations, this party was decidedly low-key (especially for my standards). I purposely prepared not a single thing until the day prior, just in case I happened to go into labor. My mom also graciously took care of most of the food preparation and cleaning ahead of time. Gosh darn I love her so!

I have very few pictures of the occasion; I rely on the family shutterbugs for these purposes. In the interim, here is a sampling of the fanfare for our little Mr. Necker this past weekend.

The source of my inspiration stemmed from this free printable from one of my favorite blogs, The Handmade Home. I knew I would use it in some way, and so I pulled all of the colors from the print. I was thrilled with the final result as blue and orange are two of Cutter's most recognizable (and identifiable) colors. Everything else just fell into place as I began to decorate on Friday. Simple, but a fete in honor of my little mister all the same.

Astrology

2012-02-07T13:23:00.002-05:00

Aside from a time in high school when I anxiously checked my horoscope daily, as a certain teacher would publish it outside of his classroom, I put no stake or interest in astrology of any form.

That being said, I couldn't help but laugh out loud when my mother read me my horoscope from today's paper, as well as Cutter's & Scout's since they will share their astrological sign. Note the special emphasis on the last phrase in both.

Oy.

Mine:
Scorpio - The road smoothes out ahead. It's as though you are the first to hit the brand-new pavement, and your're in for an easy ride. It's about time. You're way overdue.

Cutter & Scout:
Aquarius - You can only push yourself to the limit if you know where the limit is. If you don't, it's best to hang back and observe. There is no benefit to overloading yourself. Doing so could lead to regret. Err on the side of caution.

Just Do It

2012-02-06T16:25:00.000-05:00

Over the weekend we bid adieu to our Adidas and tied on some Nike sneaks in their stead (well, in truth we velcroed but you get the point).

Look out ladies, there is one stylish toddler on the loose!

38 weeks

2012-02-02T21:21:00.000-05:00

Who knew at 38 weeks I would be taking a belly shot outside in February?

Where does this weather come from?

Please bring more of it.

Your faithfully pregnant,

enjoying the sunshine,

jubilantly expectant,

Momma to be

Nestled In...

2012-01-30T16:42:00.000-05:00

I had my check-up this morning with the doctor. No changes at all. It would seem little miss has instituted a sit-in despite all of the ridiculous false alarms I have had in the past week. I keep telling my doctor, you would think this was my first pregnancy what with all of the anxiety and expectant longings I have had. Indeed - every pregnancy is different - and this one has delivered in that regard at every measurable milestone. I am simultaneously grateful and resentful of that fact. All is well, she and I are healthy, and thus...we wait.

Men

2012-01-29T16:22:00.002-05:00

My two loves.

*Sigh*

Sweet

2012-01-27T13:35:00.000-05:00

Yesterday I felt horrible practically all day long. Convinced I was going into labor I set myself to rest, only to wake this morning feeling invigorated and well, completely normal.

This face has been keeping me from going insane. He's such a sweetie, and loves his Uncle's Hess trucks.

Uh-Oh.

2012-01-26T17:00:00.000-05:00

Martha Stewart has gone and done it.

As if my organizing/office supply addiction couldn't get any worse, she has just released a new line of Home Office Supplies sold exclusively at Staples.

Be. Still. My. Heart.

Image via

Revamped Nursery

2012-01-25T20:11:00.000-05:00

I fear I have built the anticipation of this reveal beyond my ability to amaze and astonish. It is certainly far from finished as I have many additional things to add once our little girl makes her debut, but these are the pieces that make up the structure we’ll build from.

Though I do not have many specific additions for Scout, the entire nursery has evolved as it will now be home to both of my children. Cutter made the move to the twin bed effortlessly, and Steve and I set to rearranging the nursery to suit both of our children’s needs.

Without further ado, the new nursery.

The pink additions, as well as a copy of her literary namesake

The letter blocks spell out Scout and Cutter

Scout's bedding; light and feminine

The new view into the room, spotlight on Cutter's twin bed

Paper lanterns (from my sister's baby shower) hung above the bureau made by Steve

Scout's corner, with monogram made by Steve

Her sonogram from 18 weeks

On Cutter's side, his play table in the corner with his barn.

The cradle and her dresser will be in our bedroom until she is ready to move into the nursery overnight. Cutter has already insisted on sitting in the cradle to watch Mickey Mouse in the morning while I get dressed. And so it begins...

"Snow" "Snow"

2012-01-24T21:23:00.000-05:00

We experienced our first true snowfall of 2012 this past weekend, and I would be a veritable liar if I did not declare up front that I was indeed, a little excited. Since Cutter was born in one of the most ridiculous snowstorms our area has ever seen, I couldn’t help but hope that the presence of snow might encourage little miss to make an early arrival. It’s getting to be that time of the pregnancy, folks.

Quite obviously, she remained in utero protected from the icy temperatures that permeated our bedroom flooring early Saturday morning. Instead she made sure to be included in the fanfare with regular and assuring pokes and jabs of every body part known to man.

We wasted no time in dressing Cutter for the out of doors; snow pants, warm socks, snow boots, jacket, mittens, and hat. It was comical to say the least, and he remained bothered and weary by the whole affair. This would be my typical toddler; adamantly chanting, "snow" "snow" "snow" and pointing to all that white stuff that magically appeared overnight. We ventured into the snow, where he adamantly refused to wear his mittens.

It would seem his blizzard arrival into this world did not carry through to his toddler temperament, and as you can see in the pictorial evidence, he did not enjoy his ride in the sled nor the tromping through the snow in the slightest. Truth be told, I think the high-ankled snow boots through him for a loop. In the end, a ride in Daddy's arms and a snowball fight with Mia put that incredibly charismatic smile back on his face.

There’s always next time.

36 weeks

2012-01-22T12:56:00.000-05:00

Feeling well - and full of anticipation!
Today I am 36 weeks, 3 days -- only 3 1/2 more weeks until her official due date.

Je t'aime

2012-01-18T20:37:00.000-05:00

Working for Hallmark severely influenced my current love of Valentine’s Day. I adore the decorations, the sentiments, the delicious desserts, and the ensuing verbal affirmations of love that are passed between my own Mr. Longenecker and myself. I hardly need a holiday to prompt me of this proclamation, but to celebrate it in earnest is something I willingly sanction.

Scout’s pending arrival is quite close to the holiday, and lest I be caught off guard, I have already sent Cutter’s Valentine wishes to his playmates and darling girlfriends. For my own enjoyment, I made a simple heart garland and strung it in our bedroom.

I love thee to the depth and breadth and height my soul can reach.

Elizabeth Barrett Browning

Be Our Guest

2012-01-17T21:49:00.000-05:00

Belle Pez in hand; Belle rings on hand

Having raised me in the proper fashion, my mother correctly exposed me to all things of the Disney nature. My love affair began at a young age as my nursery was decorated in nothing but the latest and greatest Bambi wall hangings and Winnie the Pooh crib adornments. To say it was fate that I would ultimately retain my love of Disney is an understatement of the highest proportion.

Whilst I professed a love for Disney, rest assured I did not let other childhood necessities fall to the wayside. No, this girl proudly loved The Muppets Take Manhattan, Rainbow Brite, and Labyrinth to say the very least, but Heffalumps and Woozles, Robin Hood, and The Rescuers always held a special place in my tender, toddler heart.

As we all know, Disney’s greatest animated films were produced in the prime of my youthful simplicity. Beginning with The Little Mermaid and persisting through The Lion King; the lasting permanency of these films is felt even in my current age range (the coveted 25-34 check box). I have written in the past that Disney has perfected the art of scaring me into believing I will never be able to lay a hand on these films ever again, and so each time they are released from the elusive vault, I scoop them up and treasure their presence in my movie collection. Ridiculous, I know.

It should come as no surprise then, to know that when I heard Beauty and the Beast was to be re-released in the theaters in a special 3-D presentation, I was determined to see it again in all its glory. Thankfully, I have a kindred spirit in my friend Emily, and we set to make a girls day of it and re-live our childhood dreams of growing up and becoming Belle.

Flashback to 1991, and I remember sitting in the theater with my Aunt Deb as the opening credits and music panned across the screen, and becoming terrified at the dark and seeming somber tone of the film. It did not take much to scare me as a child, and that remains true today. She reassured me, and just like that the scene panned to the light and happy home of Belle and her father. One trip over that bridge into town and I was hooked. My sister, Aunt Becky, and I would go home and reenact the film a million times over, even recording it on my pink tape deck consigned to posterity.

Thankfully, in 2012, I was less terrified and most certainly filled with much anticipation as the somber scene turned toward Belle’s entry into town. It was all I could do to refrain from bursting out in song right then and there and repeat every single line. Emily and I just did that to one another, and certainly saved ourselves from embarrassment in doing so. Indeed I think we were the only two grown adults there without children in tow, though I guess I could technically claim to be there for Scout. All the same, it was worth every second of childhood revelry.

Now to await September 2013 – The Little Mermaid in 3D is released. Set your calendars!

Dog Bed

2012-01-17T20:39:00.000-05:00

Since installing the hardwood floors back in November, the dogs have been overly envious of the sole dog bed that graced our living room. In an effort to create and maintain sibling concord (oh, the irony of this all) I took to the interwebs to find inspiration for another dog bed that would not only bear aesthetic value, but practicality as well. I knew I did not want the standard dog bed that encompasses the majority of the coveted real estate of the beautiful new floor, but aside from that caveat was open to inspiration.

I found it in my Google Reader in the form of a picture found on one of my favorite blogs, I Heart Organizing. I perused the comments for the post and realized that many a question had already been asked of the source for the dog mat seen in the picture, and Jen had graciously (and quickly) responded.

I found a kindred spirit in Janery on Etsy and immediately set to work on conveying my vision to her. She was a dream to work with and expertly executed my incessant, childish appeal for “a pretty dog bed.”

I received it in the mail last week and am so pleased with its inclusion in our décor. It is not obnoxious, takes up limited space while remaining functional, and most of all has been used by both dogs – and happily at that I might add.

My only complaint; I should have known Cutter would want one. He seems to think it is his very own nap mat and has been telling Donovan “No, mine” when he lays on it.

Oh, toddlers.

Bedroom Update

2012-01-16T13:23:00.000-05:00

Last year I decided I was over the duvet cover and the ensuing warm and sleepless nights underneath its weighty fibers. Childbirth has altered my internal temperature for good it would seem. Instead, I opted for a light quilt with the option to layer if for some reason I ever became cold. This of course, is all for my own sanity. Steve is thankfully willing to please at any cost and could care less what he sleeps under - or on.

Back in October I began to scour Pinterest for some ideas for a fall/winter color scheme for the bedroom. Our blue/beige quilt from the summertime just didn't feel quite right for the autumnal season. I found this inspiration and went from there.

via pinterest

I priced all of my options and visited Home Goods more often than I care to admit, all in an effort to achieve a mature and sophisticated look without bearing a mature price tag.

This is our final result.

The bed skirt and quilt came from Overstock.com and I happily bough both at great discount prices on Black Friday. The bed skirt is one of my favorite things I think, ever. The quilt is right up my alley in yellow, and really gave me the sophisticated tone I was aiming for. All the throw pillows were already in my possession, waiting for the perfect use; this was it. The blanket at the end of the bed was a splurge on my part. I also purchased it on Black Friday (in my midnight rendevous to Macy's) after staking it out for weeks prior. It's a cardigan throw by Martha Stewart in red of course.

I am so pleased with the cost of the mini-update and even more pleased that I am still as in love with it now as I was when I first envisioned the transformation.

Tiny.

2012-01-16T11:27:00.000-05:00

Over the weekend I decided I wanted to finish a number of baby-related tasks, one of which was to organize the baby's diapers, wipes, and burp cloths.

I have been doing so well with this pregnancy in maintaining a calm outlook, aiming to keep my hormones in check. All bets were off the second I opened that package of newborn diapers.

Darn those newborn diapers!

My emotions kicked into high gear and I stood in my bedroom and burst into tears. I stood there, incredulous, holding what had to be the smallest diaper in my now seemingly gigantic hands. I held one up to Cutter's current size 4 and practically laughed at the enormity of his diaper next to her miniscule scrap of cotton. I proceeded to show each and every member of my family just how small these diapers were and how absolutely crazy it seemed that a baby would fit into them. Steve shared in my mis-remembrance and we both stood together in disbelief that soon we would have a little bottom to fill those diapers with. It is amazing what we forget in just two year's time!

Anxiously awaiting my first glimpse of this precious, TINY, addition.

Typography

2012-01-14T19:46:00.000-05:00

I blame my lasting obsession with typography on my college roomates; all of whom were graphic design majors among myself - the lone political science hopeful.

Myfonts.com has long been a source of inspiration and envy, and as of late it would seem that is ever true. I recently downloaded Deftone Stylus for a banner I made for Scout's homecoming. I try to score the freebies when they are offered up, and this one fit the bill.

Sometimes I get greedy and peruse the site for eye candy. My latest foray yielded a decided infatuation with yet another font, however, I'm not so smitten with the $89 fee. It would seem I will now be searching the interwebs for a freebie similar in style.

All the same, it makes my heart swoon with it's loopy, light, script. I think I went into the wrong field...

Carolyna Pro Black

Pink.

2012-01-14T13:13:00.000-05:00

There has been very little downtime in this here household over the last week or so. I have caught the nesting bug - badly - and have cleaned, organized, and re-organized nearly every nook and cranny I can find.

I have yet to take pictures of the updated nursery as I'm waiting for a few more finishing touches but be assured that reveal is on the way, as well as our bedroom (bedding, really) which I updated back in December but haven't remembered to take a picture of quite yet. *Pregnancy Brain*

I've taken on a few little craft projects in the midst of all the designing and decorating, and apparently my mother felt a little left out. She created these beauties for my own beauty to-be last week. I can hardly believe I'll have my own little girl so soon!

The New Year

2012-01-11T21:31:00.000-05:00

Though I am not typically of the resolution variety, one particular imperative was on my mind for the new year, that of a daily Bible reading plan. I have yet to read through the entire Bible though it certainly has not been for trying. I still maintain my daily devotions and additional Bible studies, but following a plan to ensure each word is read weighed heavy on my heart.

At the suggestion of our Pastor, I am following the ESV Study Bible Daily Bible Reading Plan. It covers selections from Daily Psalms or Wisdom Literature; Pentateuch or the History of Israel; Chronicles or Prophets; and Gospels or Epistles. I am hopeful in posting this it will keep me honest with myself in maintaining the discipline to accomplish the reading plan. The easiest way I can assure this, is that I've subscribed to the feed and have it in my Google Reader. Sadly, that is something I turn to everyday, when I may not be so inclined to open my Bible each day. I can say with confidence that I have not missed a day yet, only 354 more to go!

23 months

2012-01-10T20:45:00.000-05:00

It would seem that this month into the next, quite a few things will be changing in my little man’s life. Already, he has taken the bulk of them in stride.

We took the plunge and moved Cutter into a twin bed adorned with custom bed rails a la Steve last week. I will admit I approached the move with much anxiety, fear and trepidation, all of which proved unfounded and a futile waste of my treasured energy. Cutter could have cared less where he was sleeping and has remained placid and unperturbed by the transition. I have no doubts that in the next few weeks as he learns more of his newfound freedom, he will venture forth and engage in all sorts of perilous activity that I can’t see behind closed doors, but in the meantime I am treasuring his tenacity and willing my ruthless, somewhat obsessive self to absorb some of his unflappable temperament.

Steve will be heading back to work at the end of this week. It is a change that I have lamented personally as I will miss my sweet husband’s presence in our home each day, but one that I am thankful for God’s grace and mercy in seeing his healing come to this point. I do foresee it will take Cutter a bit of time to adjust to his Daddy not being around all the time as he has been home since Thanksgiving. His absence will be painfully obvious – both to Cutter and myself. We love our man of the house!

Clichés and truisms absent, our son will be two years old next month. Two years of pure, unadulterated joy and love that I never anticipated were even possible. And Lord willing, I will have a little sister to ring in that birthday of his, and add to that love all the more.

I would love an early delivery.

Cutter words this month

Mama, Dada, Pop-Pop, Bampi (for Grampie), Jason, Mimi (for Gramie), moon, movie, cookie, ball, no, yes, please, thank you, open, library, wow – to pretty much everything.

Basic Stats
Wearing 18 month size pants (finally) and 18 month size tops
Pajamas are 24 months
Size 4 diaper still during the day, size 5 at night
Weight – around 25 pounds
Height – Just under 3 feet

Highlights of the 22^nd month

Celebrating Christmas with family
Traveling to York for New Year's and misplacing our beloved puppy
Going to the museum with Jane
A play date with Stella
A play date with Indiana
Invitations to two friend’s birthday parties in one day

*(dare I say my son has turned into a social butterfly?)

Pantone

2012-01-08T21:30:00.000-05:00

The color of the year has been announced by Pantone.2012 will be the year of Tangerine Tango, and I for one am all for it.

Yellow is by far my cheerful color of choice (hence the identity of this here blog of mine) but orange is the exceptionally close second.

Here is Pantone's swatch for your color enjoyment.
I am anxious to see the trends that follow this endorsement of a color described as "a spirited reddish orange."

34 weeks

2012-01-07T19:36:00.000-05:00

In retro DC Talk -- "Time is tickin' away, tick tick tickin' away"

I cannot believe I am 34 weeks pregnant and that Scout will be with us in no less than 6 weeks. I have much to catch up on the blog and plan to do so in the ensuing days.

Rest assured we are in full baby mode around this house and it would seem my husband has experienced sympathy nesting. I am all about it.

Simple Joys

2011-12-27T23:43:00.000-05:00

There are so many things that I could wax poetic about this past Christmas; the services, the celebrations, the gifts, the merriment.

All of that seems much to cumbersome at the moment. It would seem Cutter isn’t the only one whom Christmas left in its wake. This Mama is tired!

This is what we did yesterday. Oh for the simple joys of playing with hangers.

Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T21:12:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas from our family to yours.

Tied up in bows

2011-12-22T20:22:00.000-05:00

I am a lover of the bow tie.
My husband, though dapper and charming in his own right, is just not a bow tie kind of man. This leaves me but one man left to exploit, that of my son.

Spurred by my recent impetus to believe that I am crafty and a homebody at heart, I purchased a PDF pattern off Etsy through birdsongbows, selected my fabric, and persuaded my mother to help me along in the sewing process.

These three beauties are the result of our sewing escapades night before last, and I love them ever so much - and they aren't even adorning my toddler's kissable neck yet.

*Disclaimer: I have an uncanny ability to break sewing machines. It's unforgivable, really, given how much I adore the craft. By the third bow my mother took over the actual sewing and I performed the other more capable tasks at hand -- in the interest of the machine's well being, of course.

Wonderful Counselor

2011-12-20T21:47:00.000-05:00

On Sunday our Pastor preached from the prophecy in Isaiah 9, and the scriptures have been playing on repeat in my mind ever since we left the service. Each time I read the verse,

For to us a child is born,

to us a son is given;

and the government shall be upon his shoulder,

and his name shall be called

Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God,

Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6 (ESV)

It is all that I can do not to sing the verse outloud. Growing up I had a wonderfully influential, loving Christian friend, who has just recently become a part of my life again. She introduced me to the music group GLAD, and I have been playing those cd's without fail since seventh grade. One of their songs whose title momentarily escapes me, is this verse sung in a beautiful a capella arrangment. That song in particular never ceases to give me goose bumps and cause me to sing praises to The Wonderful Counselor with all of my heart. The sermon on Sunday brought those memories to the forefront, and I was filled once again with joy and extreme gratitude for the gift that God extended in the birth of his Son.

Merry Christmas!

The Nutcracker

2011-12-19T23:01:00.000-05:00

Sadly, not the ballet, but an artistic rendition all the same.
I give you, Cutter's fascination with said nutcracker.

31 weeks

2011-12-18T20:21:00.002-05:00

Birthday Celebration

2011-12-18T20:10:00.000-05:00

For my birthday my sole request of my mother was for a day spent just the two of us being mom and daughter. As housemates that relationship tends to take a backseat to the everyday hustle and bustle of life, and as childish as it sounds, I really missed my mommy.

My mother in-law graciously took the cherub for the day, and my mom and I set to have an old-fashioned girl’s day. Sakes alive, I had nearly forgotten what they were like!

We started the morning with brunch at one of my favorite spots for tea, A Taste of Britain. It is a place saved solely for special occasions (in my book) and this one merited such decadence. Not surprisingly, we both opted for the soup and salad combo and upon hearing the waitress’ glib discussion of the snowflake tea – we succumbed and indulged. And oh, was it worth it. It is a homemade blend of black tea leaves with coconut and almond slices, and it truly feels as if you are drinking in Christmas.

To be sure, I am treating myself to a cup at the moment and couldn’t feel more in the spirit of the season. Blogging and a cup of tea, absolute perfection.

After our tea we ventured to a few consignment shops that we had been eyeing, but had yet to have the time to peruse at our leisure, together. It was literally all I could do to savor in the moment that I had my mother all to myself.

A pregnant woman doesn’t have to work very hard to be pampered by others and well, when you’re with your mother it comes as second nature that she will want to take care of you and make sure that you are comfortable. With one complaint of my toes needing polish, we were off to the nail salon. I had perhaps one of the most relaxing and blissful pedicures of late, all at the hands of my generous mother.

Without doubt, the paramount of the day was simply being present with my mother and talking with one another without inhibition or worry. It was just like old times and I loved hearing her listen to me – without having to also listen to my son. Those personal words and looks are what made the day so exceptional to me, and all the more memorable as I sit here and recount it practically a month later.

Winter Berry Salad Wreath Recipe

2011-12-17T19:55:00.000-05:00

We continued in the festive Christmas tradition and had a night filled with food and fellowship last week with our bible study. We try to do monthly dinners to further connect with each other, and this month was a special Christmas celebration. The hosts provided the main meal and we supplied a delicious salad I spied on the interwebs a few weeks ago. I received so many compliments on the salad that I thought I would link to the original source (a new favorite blog of mine). I didn't take any pictures, but I did edit the recipe slightly. I didn't use the dressing included but supplemented my own raspberry vinaigrette, and I also added raspberries to add a touch more of red to the wreath. C'est très magnifique!

Recipe for Winter Berry Salad Wreath.

SMMT, Verse 24

2011-12-15T13:34:00.002-05:00

This is it! The final verse of the year's memorization commitment.

Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God.

Colossians 3:16 (ESV)

Projects, projects, projects

2011-12-14T21:29:00.000-05:00

In the past few months I have felt extremely crafty and ambitious. I will blame it on Pinterest. Some projects I have started but have yet to finish, but many (thankfully) have been blessed with my mind enmeshing with fruition in all sorts of Martha-esque ways.

My husband has been just as busy with home projects and nursery projects. Between the two of us we make up a single ambitious mission-minded engine. Love at first sight, I tell you again.

I had Steve spray paint a gold frame I found on clearance at Michael's a few months back (ever mindful of those toxic fumes). My intent was to make a covered cork board for Cutter & Scout's room that blended with the other accent pieces I already had in there. I have been ambivalent towards practically every fabric choice I have obsessively scrutinized, but I made a decisive choice this past weekend and boldly moved forward in the name of progress. Steve & I covered the board with batting first, and then the fabric. We affixed it within the white frame and though I have yet to determine the ultimate purpose of the piece, it is exactly what I envisioned and I could not be more pleased.

A while back we also obtained a few furniture pieces from close family that were downsizing, and Steve took it upon himself to refinish one of the dressers for Cutter. Again, it matches the motif of the room without fail and I for one find it to be a wonderfully ornate piece for the room. We have since repurposed Cutter’s old dresser for Scout, and the drawers are already bursting at the seams with fashions of pink aplenty.

22 months

2011-12-13T19:37:00.000-05:00

The monthly chronicles that are my lifeline to remember these days by.

Cutter this month you are:

Talking so much more! You are a big repeater and attempt to mimic almost any word or sound we ask of you. New words include, “choo choo, back, all done, baby, mama (sweet music to my ears)”

You enjoy repeating “A, B, C” and are just beginning to repeat numbers.

Your favorite words remain “up, down, no, Bubba, Jason, PopPop” and are usually all in that order.

You’ve had a bit of a cold for the majority of this month which has led to many shortened naps and earlier wake-up times.

You’ve taken to your Daddy’s new presence at home quite well and I fear what mayhem will occur when he heads back to work early next year.

You continue to be observant beyond my own comprehension.

Christmas is a delight through your eyes as you are very much involved and fascinated by all of the decorations, music, food, and busyness.

Trucks remain a favorite play item, as well as any kind of car or motorcycle. More often than not you have a car in each hand. Reading books is still a favorite and just recently you have taken to reading a story at night to one of your teddy bears. It is endearing to say the very least.

Singing and dancing to “Skinnamarink” is always a crowd pleaser, as are “Head, Shoulders” and “Itsy Bitsy Spider” *I am terrible at remembering to capture this all on video*

A typical day for you right now runs as follows (for my own personal remembrance):

6:30 Up for the day, downstairs to get a cup of milk and watch Sprout while Mommy wakes up

7:00 Breakfast – eggs and toast or oatmeal

7:30 Upstairs to get changed and dressed for the day. While I get ready you play in my room or your room and read books or watch some Mickey Mouse.

8:30 Back downstairs to get things together, usually out the door by 9 am.

9:00 Errands of some sort or a morning outing, typically to church, you have a snack while we are out

12:00 Home for lunch – yogurt and fruit or vegetable, sandwiches are not a favorite of yours. Play a little and read some books before its time to find Puppy and head upstairs for a nap.

12:30 Naptime

3-3:30 Up from nap, have a snack (raisins, goldfish, cheese, apple, or orange) and wake up time (you take a while to wake up from a nap, just like your Mommy)

The afternoon is spent playing with cars, trucks, blocks, a craft, watching Sprout, playing Wii with Uncle Jason, errand running, etc.

5:30 Dinner time. You eat what we eat for the most part but always have applesauce with your dinner.

6:00 Play time with Daddy (i.e. run around like crazy and rough-house to get all of your excess energy out)

6:30 Bath time, then upstairs to get pajamas on, read books, and pray before your bedtime bottle of milk

7:00 In bed for the night

And then we start all over again. Of course everyday is different but that is our basic schedule for now.

It's beginning to look a lot like...

2011-12-12T21:52:00.000-05:00

A baby will be arriving soon!
I got this cradle bedding in the mail today.

Excited doesn't even begin to describe the current mental state of my person.

Mister S. Claus

2011-12-09T14:06:00.000-05:00

With much fanfare, pomp and circumstance we traversed the mall last week to meet with the man that wears tiny-rimmed glasses, has a beard full of white, and a belly the size of a pot-bellied pig. Indeed, Mr. Santa Claus himself awaited our introduction in his overly plush, velvet throne of green.

In all honesty, we were the first in line, there was no drama involved, and Mr. C. was calm, cool, and collected even joking with Steve about his arm in a sling, imploring him to come up with a creative reason for his current malady. Hardly menacing.

Cutter was timid and I wasn't about to force him to sit simply for a picture. We talked with the bearded man, gave high-fives, "pounded" fists, and pointed out every piece of adornment on Santa's outfit - gold-studded belt included. We settled for a deceiving picture of Cutter on my lap leaned in close to Mr. C while cunningly cropping me out of the picture (save for my hand which Cutter clung to, endearing me to him all the more). We donned our "free" cardboard reindeer antlers and waved bye-bye to a successful visit with The Claus.

Memories

2011-12-08T14:00:00.000-05:00

You know how there are certain things, places, or smells even that instantly trigger childhood memories? These candies are that for me.

Andes mints.

My great-grandfather, Pops, used to bring these with him every time he would visit from Michigan (usually around the holidays). My sister and I would wait all year for the treat and it has become synonymous with Christmas to me.

While perusing Target today (alone - I had no idea what to do with myself!) I noticed the package and sentimentality prevailed - into my cart they went. With each savory mouthful, of which I assure you there will be plenty, I will reminisce over every fond memory I have of my dear Pops. I was blessed to have him in my life until I was twelve years old, and the relationship I forged with him in those years will never escape my heart or mind. Cheers!

Decking the halls!

2011-12-07T21:18:00.000-05:00

December is quite possibly one of the most fantastic months of the year as we get our most treasured decorations out and display them for all to see. I waste no time in savoring these memories and pull out the infamous Christmas bins as soon as the turkey has gobbled its last. Cutter has participated in full this year and his joy at the lights and trimmings has been exceedingly contagious. He has infected us all with his smile and sheer wonder of it all. I have been conscious in reiterating the celebration of Christ we are sharing each day this month, and his nativity set (a gift from Gramie) has proven immeasurably valuable in explaining the birth of His Savior.

Admittedly, I have very little (personal) space to decorate but I enjoy it all the same. There are quite a few decorations that I have in mind to make this year, granted I have the time, but these remain my tried and true personal favorites.

Our family tree

The Christmas Card Sleigh

The Lenox Santa Figurine with our Wedding Year

Cutter's First Christmas Ornaments, 2010

Our First Christmas, 2007

Helping to trim the family tree in the living room

A boost from Gramie to get to the top

Arranging (and re-arranging) the nativity

The cheese face - Merry Christmas!

Eager Anticipation...

2011-12-06T20:09:00.002-05:00

Going on a Tree Hunt

2011-12-04T20:08:00.000-05:00

Today we endeavored to find the ever elusive perfect Christmas tree. Last year, we opted for the faithful artificial tree from our early years of marriage since we presumed Cutter couldn’t – and wouldn’t - discern the difference, but this year I was convinced we could accept nothing less than the true piney experience of hunting and cutting down our own tree. Thankfully, I was not the only one who felt this deep yearning, and the rest of the family agreed wholeheartedly. We tried a new tree farm this year and could not have had a more positive experience.

Cutter straight away took to the farm and ran down the hill in search of the tree that best suited his tastes. He found the nascent fields of young seedlings and was enamored with the feel of the needles against his finger. We ventured through the maze of trees and as a family cast aside many fallible choices before deciding on ‘the one.’ My brother cut down the tree (his first time) and Cutter watched in amazement as it fell to the ground. He asked for it to be put back upright as we attempted to explain to a twenty-two month old that we had cut it down to take it home with us. I fear he may attempt to cut down our trees at home after witnessing such a harvest.

He watched with wide eyed curiosity as Steve and my dad helped affix it to the roof (and yes, Steve only used his right arm). His first tree cutting experience was a dazzling triumph and one that I will remember always. Holiday traditions are in full swing in this household. Bring on the tree decorations.

Tree Lighting

2011-12-04T19:48:00.000-05:00

Christmas has penetrated our schedules and as I look ahead to the next twenty-one days there is nary one that is not filled with some sort of Christmas celebration - be it melody, cuisine, or otherwise. This is not a complaint in the least! Bring on the merriment and Yule.

Friday night we attended our town’s Christmas tree lighting. There truly is nothing like viewing Christmas through the eyes of a child. Cutter was enthralled with the brass quartet (signing ‘more’ each time they took a break in their serenade), the Victorian singers, and the children singing carols in the pavilion. Santa Claus himself made an appearance though we were not brash enough to weasel our way through the crowd. The traditional countdown began and I was joyfully caught up in the wonder of it all as the lights came to a brilliant blaze on the tree. Cutter was betwixt his two grandmothers to witness the miracle that is electricity, and was smitten with the sudden glow of the limbs. It was a wonderful night to ring in the Christmas season, surrounded by family and love.

Cookie Time

2011-12-03T21:29:00.000-05:00

Last week my mother and I hosted our family’s annual Christmas Cookie Baking Day. My Grandmother and Aunt joined us in the kitchen and we set to creating both tried and true as well as a few original treats for all to enjoy. Though our baking day remains a relatively newer tradition within our family, it is one that I look forward to with great anticipation each year. Baking has proven to be a highly gratifying hobby of mine, and I relished in pouring over my cookbooks in order to select a few new recipes to add to this year’s repertoire.

For our family’s sake, in keeping with tradition, we prepared chocolate chip cookies, oatmeal raisin cookies, spritz (or butter) cookies, and sugar cookies. I chose jam thumbprints, truffles, and shortbread (all from my edition of Martha Stewart Cookies). My Aunt’s request and subsequent granted wish were peanut butter cookies with Hershey kisses. We spent nearly six hours in the kitchen and baked at least thirty dozen cookies if not more. The house was perfumed with sugar, flour, and chocolate for days to follow – and I tell you it was divine.

Regrettably, my Aunt and Grandmother did not take their true third of the bounty and thus left my mother and I with dozens of cookies that continually call out to me to be eaten. I am not one to leave a call unanswered and so I dutifully devour my daily portion. Somehow the fact that I have a doctor’s appointment next week has (momentarily) slipped my mind, but it’s only Christmas once a year! The bugger is I keep getting pregnant during this overtly gluttonous time of year.

*Note to self*

Only 1/2 way through the baking!

SSMT, Verse 23

2011-12-01T13:17:00.000-05:00

For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.

1 Timothy 6:10 (NIV)

Thanks and Giving

2011-11-25T19:51:00.000-05:00

This year, a quiet Thanksgiving at home afforded me the opportunity to focus on what I am doubtless to recount are the many blessings that my family and I have experienced this year. Most pressing of which would be the current recovery of my husband from shoulder surgery this past Tuesday. He had a tear repaired (a Bankart tear of his left shoulder) that we have been waiting to correct for quite some time now, and this week proved to be the best of our options to accomplish the mending that was so desperately needed. He has been feeling well and recovering day by day, though it is a process we know will take a moderately extensive length of time.

The time at home was precisely what the doctor ordered and it was a blessing to not have to worry about traveling; our family came to us. The day was spent visiting, eating, and drinking – all three of which seemed to lend themselves agreeably to jovial conversation and satiated appetites. Cutter proudly displayed each and every one of his parlor tricks (a few times in fact) and pleased the attending fan club. Not to be outdone, his cousin Charlie served as his lovable and cuddly sidekick and the two of them fashioned more laughter and amusement than should be legally allowed in one day.

Traditionally, Thanksgiving would not be complete were it not for the perils of deal-grabbing shopping more commonly known as Black Friday. Each year I am lured out of my bed by the glossy circulars that promise deal upon earth-shattering deal, each with increasing levels of that enviable wow factor. This year was no different though my body in no way had a chance to be lured out of any warm, cozy bed. No, this year, the stores in my plan of attack opened at midnight thus admonishing me to forgo sleep altogether.

Though I did not have near the list of ‘must-haves’ that I have in the past, the sales did not dishearten my Christmas spirit in the least and I was convinced wholeheartedly that each purchase was not only worth staying up until three o’clock am, but that I was a veritable swindler. My paltry exchange seemed never to merit the bounty I was rewarded with.

The success of Black Friday 2011 is proven in the now (nearly) complete Christmas shopping. Another Thanksgiving sated with immeasurable thanks and joyful giving.

Sold American.

28 weeks

2011-11-24T20:25:00.000-05:00

7 months! And on Thanksgiving no less - in the spirit of this thankful day - a brief list of things I am thankful for with this pregnancy.

* No more back pain! (who knew a kidney stone could be such a cause of distress for so long - and that I had no idea)
* Weighing way less than at this point with Cutter (boo-ya!)
* The many, many kicks and pokes and jabs I feel from her ALL day AND night long
* No gestational diabetes and no other complications
* The pure bliss it has been with how quickly the time has passed, she will literally be here before we know it
* Having Cutter point to my belly when I ask, "Where is Scout?" and lovingly give her kisses
* The utter fascination of this life growing inside of me -- God is amazing!

27 weeks

2011-11-20T22:55:00.003-05:00

Cellular Uploads

2011-11-20T22:01:00.000-05:00

I believe it is time for yet another installment of images taken from my cell phone. If I am not mistaken, this would be dating back to the beginning of this year.

For your viewing pleasure, my snapshots.

In April, such a cute kid!

My car sleeper

The annoying post-pregnancy 'wisps' that will not grow.

Our anniversary dinner which promptly made me ill; turns out I was pregnant!

Miss Stella

At one of many stops on our way home from Tennessee

Random turtle in the road

Chick Fil A Mother/Son Date Knight with my handsome Knight

Flyers Game in the Club Box with my love

My view on the way to Charlie's Baptism

Getting some much needed love the day I came home from the hospital with kidney stones

Oh - just a cutie!

Asleep with Mickey in his lap. Happy as can be.

Rebellion

2011-11-20T14:09:00.000-05:00

It's pretty bad when "rebelling" signifies drinking an entire can of Pepsi. Such is the life of a pregnant woman determined to never in her life get another kidney stone - ever.

I happily enjoyed all 12 fluid ounces of dark, caffeinated goodness; which was an albeit gluttenous departure from my daily intake of 80 fluid ounces of tasteless (but yes, ever so good for you) water.

Rebellion has never felt so good.

A morning out

2011-11-16T20:51:00.000-05:00

This is how I spent my morning yesterday. The beloved glucose test (please read the dripping sarcasm). It was not quite as bad as I remembered and I actually enjoyed the peace and quiet of an hour in a doctor's office reading my book - uninterrupted. Who knew?

Ahh, the wonderment of relativity.

SSMT, Verse 22

2011-11-15T13:35:00.000-05:00

^"Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”
Matthew 28:19-20 (NIV)

Love, love, love.

2011-11-12T14:36:00.000-05:00

I am highly disappointed that I have yet to post a book update this year. I have lofty ambitions to do so but they have yet to materialize. Alas, I cannot let this particular read slip by with nary a mention.

I finally remembered to request The Pioneer Woman’s Black Heels to Tractor Wheels from my local library. This one has been on my “to-read” list since its debut earlier this year, and I have missed the mark each time I go to check it out.

In short, I loved every single word of it.

I read it on Wednesday and the love story has been reverberating through my membranes ever since. I have long loved to read Ree Drummond’s blog and have tried my hand at a few of her recipes though I must admit with an embarrassed sigh, I have yet to get a copy of her cookbook. It’s on my wish list!

It was an enjoyable foray into her private life that gave me great perspective on her viewpoints and life on her ranch. Not to mention, the personal emotions it stirred up in me of my own personal courtship with my strapping hunk of a husband, and all the reasons that I feel in love with him in the first place.

A more powerful, modern love story there is not. I implore you to read it – and enjoy each second of it.

21 months old

2011-11-10T20:40:00.000-05:00

And I’m on time with this for once.

Cutter at 21 months old you are doing nothing short of exacting your independence and developing your personality with each and every passing day. You are such a little man in my eyes these days, it makes me sad to realize that my baby is so grown up.

- Talking; added ‘oops’ and ‘blue’

- Quite opinionated and particular about things. For example, you decide who you want to put on your coat when we are ready to leave in the morning, and who should hold your hand among many other things.

- Eating quite regularly and up until one week ago, sleeping quite regularly too.

- Engaged with building blocks, love to read books, ride on your truck, play with your farm, and read more books.

- Like to nod your head both ‘no,’ and ‘yes’

- Amaze me with your ability to morph into a screaming misfit at the drop of a hat, but equally amaze me with how quickly you recover and continue.

- Are doing so much better in the nursery at church and during the week.

- Have finally grown into 18 month sized pants.

I love the way you tell me you love me each night and give me hugs and kisses before bedtime. Even though I’ve passed that baton off to Daddy while this belly is in my way, we still read and pray together before Daddy puts you in bed.

There isn’t much that I can say this month except that I am so happy to be your Mommy. You make me smile so much and daily laughter erupts from my soul that I had no idea was waiting to be released. As you grow we’ve been able to spend longer amounts of time one on one, and just this week we took an impromptu afternoon visit to the park. We had a snack at the picnic tables and then you sat next to me and were fascinated by two older women playing a game of tennis. I was so happy in that moment, just sitting next to you experiencing life through your eyes. You are a blessing to me in so many ways, Cutterbug. I love you dearly.

Quenched

2011-11-06T13:41:00.002-05:00

"All the riches of divine grace you shall receive in plenty; you shall be as it were drenched with it: and as sometimes the meadows become flooded by the bursting rivers, and the fields are turned into pools, so shall you be--the thirsty land shall be springs of water."

-Charles Spurgeon

She has a name

2011-11-05T10:26:00.000-04:00

I have been wrestling with the process of picking a name for this little girl from the moment the ultrasound tech revealed her dainty identity to her father and I. I have known for quite some time what my husband’s wishes were, but attributed them to happenstance and mere affinity. Regardless, I did not take the name seriously and boldly embarked on my own exploration for her name. I came up with many that were dear to me and when I shared them with my husband, he lovingly assured me they were good names and if I felt they were proper to go with it. I never felt that inner peace with any of them, however. It continued to tug at me that all of the names I had chosen were obviously peace offerings from my husband. His heart remained tied to his choice.

I decided to pray about the name choice that my husband had audaciously proclaimed as early as our pregnancy with Cutter came to an end, and asked that God would open my heart to the name. I didn’t reveal my prayers to my husband and silently asked God to make this heart change within me.

From the moment he first revealed his choice to me, I admitted that I liked the name he chose. For selfish reasons I simply wanted to find my own name, for my girl, my daughter. I wanted to be the one that named her; a humbling moment for sure.

I continued to call her the name in private and it began to feel right. I would pray for her by this name and ask for the Lord to bless her little life and knit our hearts together from the onset. Yesterday at bible study, I asked the women at my table to pray for me regarding the name. I asked that they would specifically pray that God would allow me to be at peace with the name, and joyfully claim it for our daughter.

Today, Cutter and I went to Target to purchase the items we were going to pack in our shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child. I heard a woman call for her daughter from the aisle adjacent to us, and I literally stopped dead in my tracks. This was the name that my husband had chosen for our little girl. I walked around the corner and boldly asked the woman if that was indeed her daughter’s name. She was the cutest, blondest, blue-eyed little girl dressed in brown tights and a flowered dress to match. Her mother shared that her name was indeed what I had heard, and my heart nearly leaped out of my chest. A more forthright response from up above could not have been revealed! My heart immediately softened and I felt myself become giddy with excitement over our commonality in nomenclature. She was gracious in sharing that she had never personally met another child by that name, and assured me that my husband and I would love it.

It was one of the most practical answers to prayer I think I have ever received, and quickly at that. I immediately called my husband to relate the story and he was overwhelmed with joy when I told him that I knew for certain that this would be our little girl’s name. God has willed me to rely on Him through so much with this pregnancy – from our miscarriage, to the sorrows and pain of thinking we would not get pregnant again, to the joy and celebration of learning we were indeed carrying another child past the coveted 12 week mark, through the pain of a hospitalization and the fear associated with our daughter’s well-being, and now in the naming of her precious being. He is amazing.

Now that you are bursting with anticipation, with joy and hearts full of praise we will be naming our daughter: Scout Everly.

25 weeks

2011-11-04T19:26:00.000-04:00

I can say with gusto now that I am 6 months pregnant! This pregnancy has been incredibly different from my first for innumerable reasons, but primarily I am pleased with the dramatic weight difference this time around. I haven't gained nearly as many pounds up to this point as I had with Cutter which makes this pregnant mama quite ecstatic, truly.

I've ventured into the realm where bending over requires concerted efforts, and now the task of not only putting on my own shoes - but Cutter's as well - presents logisitical if not unattainable acrobatics. I've noticed, too, that this time around I am carrying much lower and further out - achieving the coveted 'basketball under the shirt' look a full three months ahead of schedule.

I am feeling the normal pangs of pregnancy; heartburn, tired, and sore by the end of the day. Aside from that I am relieved that I have nothing else to report and that both she and I are feeling great. She is quite the mover and shaker and has begun to keep me up at night with all of her movement. It's a side effect of pregnancy I'm more than happy to endure. Her kicks keep me company throughout the day and remind me all the more of the blessing she is to our family.

I'm a little overwhelmed that she will be here in less than three months (yikes!) but am happy that we've made significant progress on her side of the nursery and plans for her in general. In just the last few weeks I feel like we've come a long way in preparing for her arrival and welcoming her home. She will be here before we know it!

All 29 years of me

2011-11-02T20:30:00.001-04:00

Today marks the 29th year of my life. Ee-gads, only one more year until 30!
My birthday was marvelous from beginning to end. Steve usually leaves for work before I (and Cutter) get up, and so I awoke to a surprise chalkboard message of love and a wonderfully sentimental card left for me upon my waking.

Cutter also left me a birthday card stuck under his bedroom door - what fun my boys are!

I spent the morning at bible study surrounded by women of faith that I am blessed beyond measure to fellowship with, spent the afternoon filled with sunshine and playing with Cutter, and rounded out my day with a mouth-watering dinner prepared by none other than my mother herself. There is no doubt that I have felt loved and special all day long.

Smile!

2011-11-01T19:51:00.000-04:00

Yes, we now smile for pictures. This baby boy of mine is sure growing up fast.

*Sigh*

SSMT, Verse 21

2011-11-01T13:50:00.002-04:00

For the LORD gives wisdom;
from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.

Proverbs 2:6 (NIV)

Halloween

2011-11-01T13:09:00.000-04:00

In true personal fashion I (obsessively) began to contemplate Cutter’s Halloween costume options back in say, July. Far be it from me to determine why I revel in these decisions so much but alas, I do. I happened upon this image on Pinterest (follow me: ldnecker) and since at the present a chicken was one of the few animals Cutter could imitate, I was hooked. It didn’t hurt that it was a Martha Stewart how-to.

Since then, he has broadened his animal repertoire to include most farm animals including the likes of a cow, duck, horse, sheep, dog, cat, and turkey. He has also bravely ventured into the jungle with renditions of monkeys, lions, and dinosaurs that surprisingly all sound quite similar.

My mother helped me with the costume since my hospitalization messed with my timeline, but homemade with love it remained which was my intent from the onset.

Though my ferocious chicken did protest as his arms were shoved into the sleeves, once on, he obliged, convincingly clucking along and promenading proudly with red comb and yellow claws in the air. It was endearing to say the very least.

We celebrated the ghoulish holiday with a Fall Festival at our church Friday night, and then a quick parade of sorts (walking from the garage to the front door of Gigi and Poppy’s) on Sunday. Next year we’ll be more engaged with the actual trick or treating part, this year was more of a celebration.

Happy Halloween!

Drool. Worthy.

2011-10-27T13:06:00.000-04:00

Jealous, much? Zulily is having an amazing sale today featuring UPPAbaby. My stroller love. This is a fantastic deal (a savings of almost $300) and I would encourage any moms to be to snatch it up at this price. If I didn't already have mine, I would be jumping all over this one.

Completion.

2011-10-24T12:51:00.000-04:00

I finished the pumpkin hat and I must say, even though he only let me put this on him just long enough for the picture (and the book was my distractive ploy), it was worth it. He makes one cute pumpkin!

Things I love about today

2011-10-21T19:33:00.000-04:00

I haven't done one of these in a while.

Things I love about today:

-waking up to my sister in the living room
-sharing my breakfast with Cutterbug
-Uggs
-snuggles after naptime
-kicks from baby girl
-watermelon jolly ranchers
-pants that fit
-purple nail polish
-hugs from my hubby

Loved.

2011-10-19T20:30:00.001-04:00

I have some of the best friends, ever.

E-mails, phone calls, visits, yes - even Facebook check-ins, text messages, meals, prayers...you name it we have been recipients of more blessings in the past few days than I can count. God has been merciful to surround our family with such amazing people and I am not naive enough to think for one second that that isn't by His design. Each trial we have faced this year (and Lord knows there are plenty) has brought us unbelievably closer to our Lord and Saviour, and closer and closer to the floor as we fall down on our knees in not only supplication but in pure thanks and joy for His provision for our family's needs.

Cutter has been the willing recipient of one of those needs; sugar. Many friends have provided meals since we have been home and Cutter has quickly learned that those meals end with a sweet treat. Yes, it's true, I deprive the poor thing of sugar on a regular basis.

Is there anything cuter than a saccharine-crazed toddler? I think not.

SSMT, Verse 20

2011-10-18T20:29:00.000-04:00

“I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.”
John 16:33 (NIV)

Praise You In This Storm

2011-10-18T15:21:00.000-04:00

Resting in this great song from Casting Crowns, Praise You In This Storm, right now.

Good Morning

2011-10-17T08:16:00.000-04:00

The vanity of this child never ceases to amaze me. Turn on the webcam and he's enthralled by himself. A snippet of our morning routine the other day. That smile delights me to no end.

The One Where I Got Kidney Stones...

2011-10-16T21:02:00.000-04:00

I seem to have an uncanny knack for posting updates that immediately become irrelevant. Thursday evening I ended up in the hospital's Labor and Delivery Unit with kidney stones of all maladies. I was discharged yesterday morning to return to the comforts of home to pass the stone and rest.

Though I am still in recovery mode, my amazing family has uplifted me and supported me in more ways than I could begin to count during this trial. The power of prayer was evident once again as Stephen bore firsthand witness to the account that it was only through God's powerful healing hand that we came through this ordeal. I love that man of mine something fierce.

Now we return to yet another new normal as I get my strength and energy back.
C'est la vie!

22 weeks

2011-10-13T14:10:00.000-04:00

I had a check-up this week at 21weeks5days. With Cutter, this appointment also fell at exactly 21weeks5days (and with the same doctor in my practice no less) – so I’ve been enjoying comparing the statistics between the two.

Cutter’s heart rate was 144 bpm, and baby girl was 148 bpm. My blood pressure with Cutter was 108/68 and this check-up was 110/60. I weighed 10 pounds heavier with Cutter (thank you, thank you, thank you) and was feeling no pain.

With this pregnancy I have been experiencing a discomfort both in my lower back and stomach region. It hasn’t been unbearable but a discomfort I was accepting as part of pregnancy. Upon my description to my gyno however, she felt strongly that what I felt was actually a hernia – or in pregnancy terms – abdominal wall separation. The back pain is symptomatic of the separation itself.

The good news is that while it can be uncomfortable, there are no pressing health concerns for me or for the baby. The prescription so to speak, is a more cautious and judicious attitude towards what I endeavor to accomplish. Regrettably, one of those feats would be lifting and carrying Cutter around. It has been hard to hear him repeat ‘Up!’ ‘Up!’ and not comply, but he is adapting acceptably and realizing that holding hands works just as well.

This also will fast forward our timeline for transitioning Cutter to a bed as lifting him in and out of a crib morning and night are somewhat against doctor’s orders.

Baby girl remains just that, baby girl. We are furiously proffering names back and forth and have yet to agree wholeheartedly on one choice. I hope to decide soon, for her sake and for mine.

Progress

2011-10-12T23:27:00.000-04:00

It's getting there...

20 months

2011-10-11T20:48:00.000-04:00

August was my last monthly update and much has changed since then. I apologize for the verbose nature of the post. It is by very definition a gloating platform of my offspring, and so it is only natural that I should find much to say about the fruit of my loins.

It may be the pregnancy talking but I cannot get over how quickly he is growing before my very eyes. I know that once this baby is here he will morph into a little boy, and I am not ready for that in the least. Toddler-dom remain I say!

Cutter is saying 'no,' 'yes,' 'up,' 'down,' 'sister,' 'blue,' 'purple,' and can point to a few more body parts than he did before. I will admit I have been frustrated in his lack of speech, but am purposing myself to remain engrossed in his own personal development and not that of other kids his age, though that is at best nearly impossible. He has yet to utter Mommy and I would be lying if I said it didn't bother me.

He adores coloring with a newfound passion and has taken to carrying his crayons around with him. This can be quite precarious as he is intrigued with ‘marking’ everything with his tagline – a straight line. Towards the end of the summer he really began to enjoy drawing with chalk on the deck, and one of his favorite things to do was to lie down and have someone trace him. This has translated to the indoors and he regularly lies down on the paper and asks you to trace him. Some of his papers are quite small, so it makes for some interesting outlines. Favorites include traced feet and profiles.

He has started walking with his hands behind his back, which is my signal that he is about to begin chasing one of the dogs. Bless their souls they are so patient with him and don’t seem to mind in the least.

He catches on to sign language well and has been signing 'please,' 'more,' and 'all done' for quite some time now. He has only recently added 'butterfly,' 'spider,' and 'thank you.'

He has exhibited quite the initiative over potty training believe it or not. We aren’t pushing it by any means but nightly now he will ask to sit on the potty and pees in it before bedtime. He has been telling me when he wants his diaper changed for a few weeks now, and though I know very well this could just be a phase, I’m just following his lead and going with it for now.

He still loves to eat fruits and vegetables though vegetables are becoming a distant second to fruits. If we have meat for dinner he will have a few bites, but he prefers fish. He loves oatmeal (with flaxseed), scrambled eggs, an occasional hard-boiled egg, applesauce, yogurt, and cheese. Just the other day my mom was able to get him to eat roast beef for lunch and I was floored – he never ceases to amaze me.

We are still having a bottle as part of our bedtime routine and I don’t want to give it up until I have to. Looking back at our 18 month post, I jumped the gun on that one! It works so well for him, and us, right now – I am not looking forward to that change. As I’m also dreading moving him to a bed. We will be using the crib for the baby so we will have to transition him to a bed before her arrival. It pains me to do so as he has been a saint **knock on wood** in his crib. I still have the bumpers on and he has yet to make an escape attempt.

Thankfully the biting has ceased momentarily.

He still adores reading books and has really fallen in love with the library. Storytime is back in earnest and we make it a point to pick out new books each time we go. He even sat down in the lobby just yesterday and opened up his book and began reading. Needless to say the librarians were quite smitten with his love for reading.

He has a deep affinity for the Wii, specifically Just Dance. He loves to dance around and that game is just fun, fun, fun for him – and for me.

He loves his Daddy, Grampie, Pop-Pop, and Uncle Jason to pieces and gives them some of the most heartwarming welcomes home you could ever hear. I only wish I was greeted that way every time I came home!

He doesn’t quite grasp the concept that a baby is growing in mommy’s belly but we talk about ‘sister’ a lot and he has been practicing saying it. It sounds a lot like wrist and he often will point to his wrist if we ask him to say ‘sister.’

Clothing wise I am surprised but he is still in size 12 month bottoms but can comfortably wear 18 month tops. He is just like his daddy, a long and lean little boy. This means I have to pull out the winter bin and get out some pants that actually fit and stay on his waist (which is decidedly nonexistent).

Our bedtime routine at this point has not wavered one bit since he was a little babe. It works so well for him, and he lets us know if we miss any part of it (a stranger to schedule he is not). We get a bath at 6:30, get our pajamas on and brush our hair, read some books, pray with Daddy, and then bottle with Mommy in the chair and then into the crib. Some nights he is in bed by 6:45 but most nights it is by 7. He is never really asleep when I put him in his crib, and he always rolls over and grabs puppy or bunny, I pull the blanket up over him and he reaches for the silky edge. I don’t hear from him again until 6:30 or 7 am. Steve and I quite enjoy our evenings alone together.

Just recently Cutter has been battling a weeks long cold that coincided convincingly with the beginning of regular weekly bible studies (read: excessive amounts of time spent in the nursery). A bit of separation anxiety has sprouted in the last month as well and drop-offs are becoming harder both on me and on him. We’re working through it but those cries are awful to hear.

Regardless, his smile can light up a room and my stress instantly vanishes when he looks up at me and voluntarily offers a hug or a kiss. He is precious beyond words and I am gratified beyond belief to be his mommy.

Milestones this month:

- Spending the weekend with his cousin, Charlie. The first time with him since his birth-day.
- Retiring the beloved crocs for socks and sneakers.
- Getting stung by a bee on his face – he took it like a real trooper.
- Braving no power for 4 days.

Just Being.

2011-10-07T13:02:00.000-04:00

It's been a rough week of doing and going and crying (both toddler and adult) and aching. Nothing monumental but a rough week nonetheless.

Cups of tea, cuddles with my hubsand, knitting pumpkin hats, warm blankets, watching DVR'd episodes of Martha, and listening to anything and everything Idina Menzel have helped tremendously.

Bring on the weekend.

Post Nap Time

2011-10-04T22:11:00.000-04:00

I couldn't resist posting this picture from the other day.

When Cutter wakes from his naps he is always clutching puppy to his shoulder and is usually not very happy. I remembered that I still had a box of those toddler pops (the slow melt variety) in the freezer. I asked him if he wanted a popsicle and he plopped right down in front of the freezer and waited for me to give it to him. Slow melt popsicle = meltdown averted.

This kid kills me.

Adorable.

SSMT, Verse 19

2011-10-01T10:29:00.000-04:00

This is the message we have heard from him and declare to you: God is light; in him there is no darkness at all.

1 John 1:5 (NIV)

It must be fall...

2011-09-30T22:27:00.000-04:00

I'm knitting again and oh, how I have missed it!

I'm attempting this yarn of cuteness for my own little bug -- we'll see how it turns out considering my last knitting feat was about two years ago. At least I have the picture to encourage me that my knots and loops should resemble something akin to a pumpkin.

20 weeks

2011-09-29T13:43:00.002-04:00

Yes indeed, I have popped seemingly overnight.

Hello, baby bump!

Kitchen Loves

2011-09-28T19:53:00.000-04:00

I have successfully passed on the undeniable love for Anthropologie to my unsuspecting mother - one stroll through the store and I had her hooked. I have a love for the latte bowl that is unsurpassed, and my darling mother gifted me with four more for my collection this past Christmas.
I was also gifted the egg crate in robins blue (love!) that I actually use for eggs in the fridge. I know many in the blog world use them for storage for jewelry or in desk space but I like them best in the fridge.

Last month my mom had a birthday incentive from the store for a percentage off, and so we took a trip to see what we could find. She happened upon these three beauties and I happily use them in our kitchen almost daily.

Measuring spoons

Berry Basket

Milk Bottle Measuring Cups

Baking

2011-09-27T13:21:00.000-04:00

I made this today.

Can't wait to dive on in.

Rotor Fest

2011-09-24T21:04:00.001-04:00

Clouds though present they were did not dissuade us from venturing out to expose Cutter to yet another of his enjoyments as of late – helicopters. We attended our inaugural Rotor Fest, of which I am sure there will be many repeat attendances. Before we even stepped foot on the ground after parking our car he was already pointing to the skies. The whirring blades were decidedly unambiguous and our consciences cleared of any misconception he may not enjoy the event; he was delighted beyond belief.

We checked out the numerous outdoor static displays of various helicopters, and I fear I will soon learn the differences between each of them. The museum itself was open for viewing and Cutter confidently perused the grounds and even ‘flew’ one of the helicopters on his own.

We were privy to quite a few arrivals and departures as they were offering helicopter rides as part of the Fest, and Cutter was enthralled with the comings and goings of each craft, pointing and talking at each crew.

It was a Saturday morning I’m happy to have created lasting memories with this trio of mine.

Let's go ride a bike!

2011-09-23T12:50:00.000-04:00

Every year at this time I find myself anxiously awaiting that first trip to the pumpkin fields, the apple orchards, and of course, the fall children's consignment sales. The month of September has been chock full of things to do almost all of our days.

Last weekend was the first of many children's consignment sales that I frequent. I have found these sales to be so crucial to Cutter's wardrobe. We save so much money by purchasing the slightly used clothing, and at times, the tags are still on the clothes. This past weekend was especially intriguing as it would be the first time I could look through the oodles and oodles of pink that inevitably cloud these events. Boy clothes are always sparse and uneventful -- the feminine counterpart makes up for that meager picking almost ten times over. Admittedly, I did not go overboard, but was much more reserved than I had thought I would be. My mother and Aunt swam decidely in pink to their hearts content.

However, one of the non-clothing purchases that I made last weekend was a three wheeler Radio Flyer for Cutter. For ten dollars I couldn't pass it up, even if he still has some room to grow before his feet reach the pedals. Next spring I know this will be a favorite.

Testing out the new wheels...

18 weeks

2011-09-16T19:50:00.000-04:00

Strangely enough I have made it to 18 weeks without posting a single update about this pregnancy. Somehow I don't think that's quite fair – to me or to our baby.

Our ultrasound was scheduled for this morning and despite a few insurance hiccups which left me anxious that we would be sent away, we were ushered into the dark ultrasound room to learn the sex of our next child. With this pregnancy I have had no inkling one way or the other, and was completely surprised when she revealed the gender to us.

We have been praying for a healthy baby and that was foremost on my mind. The first thing that I saw was the baby's heart beating, strongly, at 141 beats per minute. Hearing that was music to this momma's ears! Everything else checked out perfectly – hands, feet, bladder, kidneys, stomach – this baby was perfectly normal. We were even given a surprise view of the baby’s face in 3D which was precious beyond belief.

Boy or Girl?

We threw a small gender reveal party tonight for our immediate family. Any excuse to plan a party! I bought blue and pink balloons and had a chalkboard out for the official tally. I ordered a cake from my favorite bakery, and called after the appointment to let them know what color the icing should be on the inside.

He? She? Let's See!

The cake was the best idea and I’m so glad we decided to tell our family in that way. It was just perfect – and incredibly special. We cut into the cake and I pulled the piece out and my mother’s reaction was simply priceless. She jumped up and down and screamed, “I’m going to have a granddaughter!” Yes – we are having a girl!

She is perfect in every way and we love her with all of our heart. I cannot wait to welcome this little girl into our family. Cutter has been practicing saying sister all throughout the day, and it’s simply the cutest thing.

We love you baby girl! The countdown to February has begun in earnest.

SSMT, Verse 18

2011-09-16T11:30:00.002-04:00

Now to him who is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to his power that is at work within us, to him be glory in the church and in Christ Jesus throughout all generations, for ever and ever! Amen.

Ephesians 3:20-21 (NIV)

Mott's

2011-09-14T15:23:00.000-04:00

Lately I have been buying Mott's Natural Applesauce (no sugar added) for Cutter. It's a daily regimen of which he is quite favorable, and until apples are in season and I can make my own applesauce again - it is our most economical option to feed his apple addiction.

Labor Day weekend I ran out to get another 6-pack as we were precariously low in our stockpile, grabbed the intended item, and came home. No sooner had I opened the package that I realized this batch was not suitable for consumption -- there was a white film, and now upon further inspection, I realized that the normally yellow sauce was more of a mustard brown.

I tossed the cup and its contents and vowed to contact Mott's. Complaints were logged and replacements purchased. A follow-up was promised, but I blitheyl dismissed it as company protocol and did not expect anything for weeks, truly months. Imagine my surpise today (merely a week after said complaint) to find a letter from Mott's apologizing for the quality of the product and assurance that my issue had been forwarded to the appropriate department. Mott's consumer relations was highly responsive and incredibly savvy which impressed me greatly. The requisite coupon was included which I will be taking advantage of presently.

You know you want to sing it..."Lots and lots and lots and lots and lots and lots of Mott's!"

"Oh, look at the monkey..."

2011-09-14T14:00:00.000-04:00

I couldn't resist posting this latest viral YouTube video.
Entertaining, indeed!

Esther

2011-09-13T13:36:00.000-04:00

I'm a little embarrassed it has taken me this long to log this post. My mom and I began Beth Moore's Esther: It's Tough Being a Woman early this summer with all intentions of finishing before the Labor Day holiday.
Babies were born and vacations were enjoyed which severely sidelined our efforts, but we have restarted our study in earnest this week.

I have not done a full study of Esther before and am enjoying this one immensely. I especially love how with each B. Moore study I am forced to examine my own spiritual journey and inevitably I am reminded of truths that I had all but forsaken. She never is lacking in scripture and I enjoy those truths so much.

Last night in our DVD session, Beth read a section from N.T. Wright's book, Following Jesus and it was quite powerful. He outlines that the surprising number one command in the Bible is not to be afraid. More often than any other command, the Bible encourages us to fear not, but to trust in God. This could not have resonated with me any stronger than this particular moment in my life, and I was so thankful that God opened my ears and heart to hear it where I needed it the most.

My mom and I still have more than half of the study to finish, but I have no doubt by the end I will be more saturated in the Word than before, committing more of those amazing verses to memory to continually remind myself of God's sovereign grace.

Refreshing.

2011-09-12T19:15:00.000-04:00

Today was the first day in what feels like weeks that we have been able to play outside at our discretion. Rain had simply marred those plans more than I cared to admit.
Needless to say, this is how excited someone was to finally be running around outside again.

Summer memory

2011-09-11T22:12:00.000-04:00

The change of the season, and the sudden growth of my child's feet led to our latest need, that of new shoes for Cutter. His Crocs were a summer standby that I will sorely miss. Honestly, these rubber clogs will forever remind me of this summer and all that we did together. I'm going to have a hard time packing these away.

Yes, I captured their essence for all eternity to remember this summer by. It was only fitting.

I blithely decided we would head to the mall, pick out new shoes, and be done with the ordeal. *hahahahaha*

This momma forgot that the end of August is back to school shopping time, and every. single. mom. had the same idea for her school-age children. There were at least three families in front of us, the most recent including five children. I dug my heels in, determined not to change my plan, and we (patiently) waited our turn. Cutter was a saint as we waited (read: ran around, read books, climbed on the displays, ate cheerios off of the floor, made googly eyes at the little girl across the room, etc.) for over an hour to get fitted and choose our fall sneakers. It truly was not all that bad, I was more upset with myself for not taking into consideration the back to school rush of the rest of the world.

We left with these two beauties in tow and I daresay though they were not our original choices, they scream, "I'm a rambunctious, growing toddler," velcro and all. I am so ready for fall.

Women of Faith

2011-09-11T14:08:00.000-04:00

Yet again it would appear that my blogging has taken a backseat to the reality of my ever busy days. I attribute this latest lapse to the beginning of the fall season and thus the beginnings of a new – well – pretty much everything. Though Cutter is not in school, it has been clear that with the start of the school year, so too starts a new schedule and we are just beginnint to adjust to that new normal.

Last week was admittedly one of catch-up as I had referenced from our previous power outage. I finally caught up with laundry and overall cleaning, only to start all over again today. Read: Life.

I spent Friday and Saturday in the city (Philadelphia) attending the Women of Faith Conference with 10,000 other women. This was my first conference and I was blown away by the ridiculously talented worship team, the saturated speakers that dripped theological goodness, and most of all, the bonds I created with the women alongside of me. Spending time away from my family was tough and I am so thankful for my husband for encouraging me to go while he held down the fort, but feeding my soul with some girl time was exactly what I needed. If you have not gone I highly suggest attending – you will be richly blessed by these women and what they have to share. They tour across the country, and already have the dates published for their 2012 tour. I’ve linked to the Conference so you can see the line-up in detail, but highlights included Sheila Walsh, Tim Hawkins, and Angie Smith (as a blogger I was so glad to see her included).

One of the most impressionable moments of the conference was Natalie Grant’s session, as she led all 10,000 of us in an A cappella rendition of “It Is Well with My Soul.” Simply heartwarming – I have to imagine that is what heaven will be like. Tens of thousands of God’s children standing arm to arm singing to His wondrous face, giving Him all the glory. Utter perfection.

Hurricane Irene

2011-09-02T13:07:00.000-04:00

We did not manage to escape the wrath of Hurricane Irene as she barreled up the East Coast last week. The news reports were frantic, frenzied, and over-played throughout many of the days preceding her arrival. It was all I could do to turn on the TV and not see yet another variant of a computer model depicting extreme winds and devastation for our area.

I am no cynic and we were prepared for the storm, I was merely overwhelmed by the media saturation of the ordeal. Regardless, arrive she did on Saturday afternoon with rain and wind aplenty. It was not near as intense as predictions had called for, but it remained a Hurricane nonetheless. There was one tense moment Saturday night when a Tornado warning was issued for our area. My Uncle had called to let us know it was on the way, and our weather alerts were going off seemingly every minute. We erred on the side of caution and woke Cutter to bring him downstairs in the interim. The tornado did not materialize which was relieving but anxiety producing all the less. Cutter went right back to sleep though I did not have as easy a time relaxing. The news reports were revving me up and it was all I could do not to jump out of my bed every time I heard a limb fall or tree creak. Worrying is exhausting – and futile (I know).

Sunday morning we surveyed the damage and it seemed we had escaped relatively unscathed. There were a lot of branches and limbs down but nothing that some old-fashioned manual labor couldn’t fix.

Until lunchtime that is, when the lights suddenly dimmed and then diminished. Our power was out. A trip down the driveway revealed the culprit – a Poplar had fallen across our street taking the power line down with it. Unbeknownst to us, another tree, a Red Oak, had fallen further down our road trapping the power line underneath it. My husband and father joined with the other neighbors to cut up the trees to make the road passable, but it was painfully clear we were going to be without power for quite some time. We are a small neighborhood with only eight homes – we were certainly not a priority of PECO’s amidst all the other outages. We utilized our generator to the fullest and were able to preserve all of our food, but not having lights and hot water gets old real fast.

Crews from Chicago came late Tuesday night to remove the tree from the line, and I had the unusual pleasure of watching their operation first-hand. I had come home later than I had thought from a meeting and was unable to get through our street while they worked. I patiently waited as there was no way I was interrupting their operation!

On Wednesday afternoon a crew from Milwaukee and Georgia arrived to re-set our poles and hang the lines back in place. They were some of the most kind and not to mention professional men, and I was happy to showcase Cutter. One of the men hadn’t seen his twelve month-old in over four weeks and he was fawning over Cutter’s unrefutable cuteness. I was more than happy to oblige.

Our power was restored Wednesday evening and I have never been more thankful for electricity – and more importantly – hot water.

Needless to say the rest of this week we have been in catch-up mode doing laundry and cleaning the house. Cutter was quite distraught that he was unable to vacuum for four days, as was I, his ever-anal mother. We’ve returned to normalcy quite quickly, but with a deeper appreciation for the infrastructure and willingness of so many across our country to serve those in need. Though the circumstances were not ideal, it was a timely reminder of how great it is to be an American and live in the United States of America.

SSMT, Verse 17

2011-09-02T12:40:00.000-04:00

For the Kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.

1 Corinthians 4:20 (NIV)

Official 18 month stats

2011-08-25T13:59:00.001-04:00

From our doctor's appointment last week.

Cutter weighs 23 pounds (20th percentile)
Cutter is 33 inches tall (75th percentile)

And still abhors getting shots. Surprise, surprise.

I love my dog. I love my dog. I love my dog.

2011-08-24T14:02:00.000-04:00

This adorable furry friend has been testing my patience this week.
Monday morning, she walked right through the new asphalt my Dad had laid in our driveway -- directly onto the living room carpet. Tuesday afternoon, she returned her morning meal in seven different strategic piles around the house (all on carpet OF COURSE). Today, she woke Cutter up early by prancing loudly outside of his door, and then decided to lounge in my bed while we were out this morning - promptly covering my newly washed quilt in mud.

And that there, is one of the umpteen thousand basketballs she has suddenly decided are fodder for her enjoyment.

2011-08-23T12:42:00.000-04:00

It is no secret that I am a fan of Zulily, but I don't believe that I have revealed another of my loves; that of Candice Olson. Imagine my excitement when I read in my inbox of her rug feature this week at Zulily!

I have been weighing the options of getting another rug for Cutter's room, and whether or not I want it to match the Trellis Rug from Pottery Barn Kids that we received as a baby shower gift. I absolutely love that rug and would have no qualms getting another, in a larger size. However, I can't help but be tempted by the beautiful patterns in Candice's line. Divine Design, indeed!

Some of the beauties from Zulily's feature, all from Candice Olson for Surya:

And our current treasure, Trellis Rug in Blue from Pottery Barn Kids:

Jump Rope

2011-08-22T19:58:00.000-04:00

The weather is simply divine and we have spent the majority of the day out of doors. Not a surprise, really. On the docket this afternoon: a workout of jump rope. Over the top cuteness.