.

Sweet boy

2011-10-09T21:45:00.002-05:00

I bit the bullet today and finally edited a few pix. Had to share cuz I'm a proud mama. :)

Birthday Boy

2011-10-06T16:33:00.003-05:00

I can't believe my little man is one!!! It is so crazy how fast a year can pass and you don't even realize it. One day you have a tiny newborn and before you know it you have a little boy with personality and trying to walk. Ryder has definitely kept me busy lately, but I love seeing him learn and grow. He has the cutest personality and is very expressive. There are too many things I love about him to list. One from the top of the list is that he will finally cuddle with me. It makes my day when he snuggles up on my shoulder. I waited so many months for that.

The party was low key with a few friends and family. He was happy playing with wrapping paper while Bailey unwrapped every last present for him. (and played with all the toys too). He wasn't very interested in the cupcakes. After a few licks of the finger he was entertained by throwing it on the floor (twice). I love this sweet boy. Happy Birthday Ryder!!!!!

One seriously fun weekend

2011-09-24T21:24:00.005-05:00

The kids and I went to the Liberty Fall Festival on Friday and it was one of those perfect afternoons. The weather was perfect, the kids were happy, the stars were aligned. We even bought a pumpkin (and a huge zucchini and a shaved ice). I love those perfect days and wish I could force them to happen more often.

To top off the weekend, Bailey was in the parade and we went to the Shatto dairy farm. I have a lot to document about the parade. Mostly because Bailey is 3 going on 13. She is one of the youngest in the dance group and she would walk up to the older girls standing in a circle and just join like she was their next best friend. We got settled on the float and she didn't want to sit by me, she wanted to sit by the other girls. She ACTUALLY asked me to move and go sit on the other side. I have to say I was a little crushed inside. I love seeing this confidence in her, but I have to admit I liked it when she would want me to hold her or come hold my hand. By the end of the parade she had asked to sit on my lap, so all was well. Except the fact that my baby is not so much a baby anymore. These little milestones can be so hard sometimes.

Baby bro is achieving milestones of his own too. Just today he took a little step on his own for the first time. And he has the big birthday this week. I really don't understand how a year can pass so quickly. Just a little reminder to me to slow down and enjoy my babies before they grow up too fast.

Shatto stache

I had sympathy for this cow. I have felt how she looks several times.

This little guy's name is Bolt and he was not even a month old.

Bailey liked the kitties much more than the cows.

Yep, cutest little guy in the world. (Ryan's not too bad either).

First haircut

2011-08-29T15:23:00.004-05:00

Ryder had his first haircut this weekend, by a Kansas City Chiefs cheerleader no less. It was getting a little bushy in the back, so I had it trimmed (and yes I kept a lock). I felt sad after I cut it, but at least it is even now.

Before: (Please don't tell Ryan I put a pony tail in it, I would be in huge trouble).

After

He looked so handsome in his little cape. Good job Holly. :)

And Bailey had her first sleepover last weekend. She stayed at grandma's the whole night and had a blast. I need to get a video of her saying "sleep over" because for some reason she says it in a british accent. I don't know why, but I love it. She set out her princess sleeping bag hours beforehand and was so excited. She had a great time, although I think I had a better time. :)

Yummy day

2011-08-22T16:34:00.002-05:00

Boys will be boys

2011-08-15T21:54:00.005-05:00

I knew this was coming. I knew once he hit 9 months that he would take off and change so fast, and he is. He is pulling up on everything, is into everything, sleeping through the night, and having fun playing with his sister.

loves the potty

Holding his own bottle

Um, just cute

Looking so grown up

Has to see who is louder

It always ends in tears

I love this little man.

Bunny Hop

2011-07-10T18:12:00.001-05:00

Guess who is THREE!

2011-06-25T16:29:00.006-05:00

My baby turns 3 this week. I can't believe it. It's going by way too fast. Man, I love this little girl. I looked through her baby pictures today and it pulled at my heartstrings. One day I'm feeding her mashed peaches and now she's saying her own prayers and going to dance class. One day she is chubby sumo baby (had to post a picture of those thighs), and the next day she is skinny and tall. It's crazy how fast life goes by. What a good reminder to enjoy these special spirits while they are young and not to let life go by without enjoying it.

We had a tea party with a few friends and I must say, things like this are such a perk of having a little girl. I love having tea parties, painting nails, watching Princess movies, and cuddling. Can't wait to see what this next year brings. Happy Birthday Bailey!!!

What a day

2011-06-17T12:21:00.004-05:00

I have the best recipe for an Almond Joy Cake. It looks yummy, right? I just finished making it for my mother in law for her birthday, and suddenly realized I used a wrong ingredient.

I'm sure you can guess which one I used. Happy Birthday Diane! Maybe making a cake with sick kids isn't such a good idea. Or a defective brain for that matter. Just needed to take a break before I started cake #2. Here is the recipe for anyone interested. It really does taste like an almond joy. Better luck to anyone who makes it!!!

Almond Joy Cake

1 package chocolate cake with pudding in mix

1 c evaporated milk

1 c sugar

24 large marshmallows

14 oz coconut

1/2 c evaporated milk

1/4 c butter

12 oz chocolate chips

1 c almond slices, toasted

Bake cake as directed. Combine 1 c evap milk and 1 c sugar in saucepan. Bring to boil and stir in marshmallows. Add coconut and pour on cake while hot. Melt together remaining 1/2 c evap milk, butter, and chocolate chips and almonds. Pour on top of warm cake.

And the next American Idol is........

2011-06-12T17:49:00.002-05:00

Move over Taylor Swift!

Best afternoon EVER

2011-06-03T09:34:00.003-05:00

Lately I have REALLY been missing the days when I had time to craft (and shop!). I don't know why making things is so much fun, but it just is. I miss going to Hobby Lobby 3 times a week and decorating my house. So yesterday I packed up the kids and went to Hobby Lobby (oh how I have missed you!). They were both very good for the trip, although I could have spent a few more hours there. I put them both down for a nap and got out a pepsi and I must say, it was great-almost therapeutic. Ryder didn't sleep long; one glue gun burn and two baby einsten movies later I had 2 headbands and one necklace. (Nick, don't show Gracy. :) I had been coveting the cute headbands on Cozy Couture on Etsy for a while and actually almost bought some. They are darling, but super pricey. I decided to try my own hand at it first. They are a little different, but a heck of a lot cheaper. Etsy smetsy.

And I saw a cute little boy wearing a similar choker to this one and wanted to make one for Ryder. I won't let him wear it until he's much older for safety, but Ryan strongly disagreed that no son of his was wearing a necklace. It's manly though, it's not like it's beads. (And it will be smaller and more of a choker) C'mon! What do you think? Too girly?

Dakota Fanning

2011-05-31T14:46:00.004-05:00

I have gotten a few comments this week about how Bailey looks like Dakota Fanning...I can see it. Hopefully she can make Dakota's salary when she gets older too. :)

I love memorial day! I like celebrating those who have served our country. I like the unofficial start of summer, and I love having a 3 day weekend to spend with family. We had a great time at the Kansas City Zoo and the movies (Kung Fu Panda II was great!) Both kids were shockingly very well behaved for long periods of time and it was great weather. It's hard to send Ryan back to work after a weekend like that, but it was worth it. The only bummer about memorial day is that I didn't get to keep my old tradition going of having a shaved ice. Anyone know of a good shaved ice place in KC? I have a real craving.....

Ryder loved the movies!

Polar bear exhibit was the best part of the zoo.

I love when you can see them learning.

Favorite little boy EVER.

By the way, physical therapy DONE TODAY! woohoo! And only 1 more month of the helmet and we're home free. YAY!

Who says?

2011-05-27T11:20:00.002-05:00

Who says boys aren't fun to dress up and do their hair? Not me.

Finally long enough for a mohawk.

The Graduate

2011-05-19T15:03:00.003-05:00

Bailey graduated from toddler time last week. Sigh.

And Ryder has graduated to baby foods.

And has top teeth coming in, which is why he keeps sticking out his tongue and rubbing it on his teeth.

One proud mama!

2011-05-04T14:41:00.004-05:00

I know I generally just post pictures of my kids and brag about how cute they are and how fast they are growing. But, um, they really are. It's really been hitting me hard lately how fast they are both growing and it's kindof making me sad. It seems like time is flying by but not much else is changing. They are both really changing physically and intellectually. Bailey keeps me on my toes with all the new things she says and comprehends. And Ryder is changing a ton every day. I'm nervous that he is getting closer to 9 months. It seems that once they hit 9 months, they just take off and do new things every day.

So here are the expected kid pictures. I mainly keep this blog for that purpose, to post pictures for my family and especially for those who live out of state and don't get to see them often. I've been debating whether or not I should put more of myself into the blog or not, I don't want to use it as a journal and post extremely personal thoughts, especially since it's public. I've got a lot to say today, but just not sure who is reading after I installed a counter and saw how many people are looking at my blog. So I'm thinking about going private. Any thoughts from those of you who do have a private blog? Back to the pictures...

A day at the park last week. It was almost 80 degrees. I got a sunburn. It was great.

Not sure if I have posted Ryder's flames yet...

Not the best picture of the temple, I brought the wrong lens. But the temple is coming along quickly, it's so pretty. I love seeing it often and having a constant reminder of eternal families. I love that this picture shows the strong bond between Ryan and Bailey and I think that sums it all up.

She looked so much older to me on Sunday, I had to snap a few. There's something about buying my daughter a new dress, bringing it home to her, and loving that she gets excited about it. I love having a little girl.

Ryder is changing so much, his face just looks so much older to me. I think all moms think their babies are cute, but I love that he looks like my family. I love his blue eyes and thick hair. I love this look on his face whenever I take a picture of him. You know I could go on all day. And yes, that chin is as fun to kiss as it looks.

If you get a magnifying glass, you could see the 2 new teeth on the bottom.

Alright, enough is enough.

Sassy pants

2011-04-28T12:59:00.005-05:00

I had to document some of the funny things Bailey has said lately:

Mom, I'm worried about you.

She's obsessed with abc.com. She doesn't know what it means and I have no idea where she came up with it or why she keeps bringing it up. We even had to write abc.com on one of our decorated easter eggs. I know, weird.

Aaaaaah, alright, FINE.

The wind is ruining my hair.

Mama has a big booty.

Don't be sad about it.

I'm so beautiful.

Seriously. Two going on 12.

Happy Easter

2011-04-25T20:23:00.004-05:00

We had a great Easter weekend filled with way too much candy and a fun dinner at Grandma's. Saturday night before bed I was explaining to Bailey about the resurrection and why we celebrate Easter, and she said, "Yeah mom, Jesus likes the Easter bunny. He brings me presents." In all fairness, I think that's the part I remembered most until I was like 10.

Hope you all had a great Easter!

For Nana

2011-04-12T09:19:00.007-05:00

A few smiles as promised for Nana. And then a few more. :) We've had warm weather, teething, and potty training lately. I've had a few moments of reflection since my babies are hitting these milestones and making me realize how fast they are growing. My little baby is eating baby food, getting teeth, and will be crawling before I know it. I don't know where the time goes. We have a rough day here and there, but the good ones outnumber the bad and make it all worth it. I don't know what I would do without these two. A weekend of shopping can help balance out those rough days too....

My big baby is in dance class, wearing underwear, and can play on the playgrounds by herself. She says new clever sayings everyday and negotiates. Daddy told her if she went pee pee in the potty that he would buy her a barbie and Tangled, she responded with, Tangled, a barbie, a doggy, and a kitty cat. She drives a tough bargain.

Spring and sunshine make the long winter worth it. It's finally warm enough to play outside, oh how we've missed the park and playgrounds!

Finally got some of those smiles...

2011-03-22T20:15:00.004-05:00

It took a little baseball to get these smiles on camera. Who knew?

This is my all time favorite picture. That is pure joy in his eyes.

Bailey did awesome her first try at t-ball. She obviously got some of her papa's baseball genes. Lucky girl. We'll have to start working on her fastball.

First rice cereal milestone always requires pictures. Good thing we have big sister to help.

The Great Outdoors

2011-03-16T19:20:00.006-05:00

After a long, long winter of being cooped up inside and much sickness, we finally got to go to the sandbox and get some fresh air today. It felt so good to get out. Now we have the bug and can't wait for more warm weather and are even thinking about the pool opening. (although thinking about swimsuits is giving me anxiety...)

Ryder lost interest and fell asleep. I am loving the fingers in the mouth.

Second unsuccessful attempt at getting smiles caught on camera. I did capture the cute muffin top and dimpled elbows though.

Already practicing.

I think he thought it was a part of the anatomy rather than a toy...

Tired of playing goalie.

His new helmet is not as serious as it looks. He has torticollis in his neck, which pulls his head to the side and as a result he has some flattening on the back of his head. The helmet is supposed to reshape his head and he'll be wearing it for a few months along with physical therapy. Back in November, I saw a little boy with a helmet on and thought, "OOoooohhhhhhh, poor little boy. What's wrong with him?" I thought I would post why he's wearing it so he doesn't get all the Ooooohhhs. It's growing on him, he's getting more used to it everyday. It's growing on me too. It does make feeding and some things more difficult, but Bailey thinks his football helmet is "handsome." So do I. :)

New firsts...

2011-03-03T11:02:00.008-06:00

We've had many new firsts here at the Grady house lately. And as a proud mama, I had to share.

Little man is rolling over all the time.

First snowman.

First wrestling session.

First time terrorizing sister.

And last but not least......first dance class! And proud mama doesn't even cover it. We got the cutest little tiny ballet slippers and tap shoes and she loves prancing around in them. She was a little shy before class started, but once she saw the other girls line up, she jumped up and didn't look back. I was worried she wouldn't listen to instruction, but she ended up being the wild kid in class. Granted she was the youngest one there (and sssshhhh, still in diapers...we're working on that), but she did awesome for her first time! If she couldn't do or keep up with what the teacher was doing, she would twirl in a circle or just take off and prance around the room. And yes, it was my kid who jumped out of line in the middle of class to run up and show the teacher her pretty painted fingernails. I am embarrassed to admit, but it was almost an emotional milestone for me to see my baby in a dance class. It seems like she is still just a little tiny girl to me, but it's times like these that make you realize how fast they are growing up. I stood outside the classroom watching from a glass window with my camera and had a grin the entire hour. I was proud at how hard she tried and how much she could do. It was different to not be in the same room helping her, I had to leave her with a teacher and just watch and that's when you really learn their abilities. I can tell I am going have issues with school! She was on cloud nine the entire time and even leaned over to hug the girl next to her. Hopefully a little more self control will come in time.

She was supposed to be doing this, despite how it looks. Definitely my favorite part of the class. You can tell by the look on her face how much she loved prancing around the circle.

She was supposed to be sitting on the floor, but she was WAY too excited to sit.

Her favorite part. She talked about summersaults all night long.

And just a few leftover pics...

Little man is about 18 pounds and outgrowing all his toys too fast.

Two peas in a pod.

Can't get enough of these smiles, and barely caught this one on the camera.

Little Man

2011-02-16T15:30:00.004-06:00

Almost 5 months already. Seriously. Ryder is so smiley, I am not sure why I can't capture it on my camera. There is something about this little guy that melts my heart. I can't get enough of his smiles and giggles. I can't stop rubbing my face on his soft hair and kissing those chubby cheeks. I love his babbling and am so proud of the milestones. I love having a little boy. He is so different from Bailey, and I love the differences and the similarities. He is such a sweet boy and I am thankful he likes to cuddle. And unlike I had initially thought, there ARE cute boys clothes out there. I'm not giving up, I am going to try again to capture those cute smiles.

Mommy date

2011-01-31T16:37:00.005-06:00

I haven't blogged in so long that it's overwhelming to sift through all of the pictures (especially Christmas). So for now, I am going to overlook the past 2 months. Quite a bit happened, Christmas, family came to visit, Ryan's birthday, lots of pix of the kiddos...but let's be honest, I don't have that much free time. Just wanted to post about our mommy daughter date and a few current pix.

I joined a group called Parents as Teachers when Bailey was really little (if you're in KC, you need to join!) and went to an activity a last week at Airzone. I was excited to have some time alone with Bailey and wanted to have a really fun night. I wasn't sure what to expect, and found out it was actually a little old for Bailey. She has always been a little slow on her feet and falls hard, so I ended up carrying her up to the slides and crawling through the obstacle courses with her. What a workout for an hour and a half! And with my camera no less. She was literally having the time of her life and I felt like the best parent in the world. I watched her jump and giggle with joy and I reminisced about when she was little and how much she has grown up. I was going to take her for an ice cream cone on the way home. I would be the best mom ever. It was the perfect night. And then it was time to go. Bring on the tantrum. All the tender feelings went out the door. I will spare the embarrassing details, but there might have been some kicking and screaming, and maybe a little force used to put on the boots and coat. Maybe a tear or two. Forget the ice cream. All I heard the whole way home was a lot of moaning and cries, and ....... get this........ "Mama, you make me really really so sad." Dagger to the heart. My sweet Bailey has fallen victim to the terrible two's. (At this moment, she is in her room for the 3rd time today for talking back.) Never thought it would happen to me.

On a happier note, here are a few current pix.

Growing up WAY too fast.

Loving the bumbo nowadays.

Such a smiley guy. Loving it!

Had a rare minute before church. Couldn't get them both to look at the camera, but at least they are both clean and dressed up. :)

Loves photography too. Nevermind the camera is backwards and she can't look through the hole.

Zillions of more pictures, I will post more the next free minute I get.

Round Two

2010-12-07T12:46:00.005-06:00

Bailey has been asking to see Santa again ever since we saw him last Thursday, so we went to see Santa Saturday at the Bass Pro shop. I must say, it was the best looking and most authentic Santa I have ever seen. But with no nap, she wasn't as excited to see him as before. She was more excited about the Bass Pass we got with a snowman on it (so we didn't have to wait in the 3 hour line to see Santa, phew). She was scared of the fish and the bears, but was excited to see all the reindeer and four wheelers. There was a huge fireplace with pretty decorated trees and I thought it would make a nice family picture, but of course, Bailey did not agree with me. It was a nice thought, though.

I have been trying to make a conscious effort to take more pictures of Ryder. The time is flying by and I am so amazed at how fast he is changing. How do they grow so fast? So here is another picture for all our out of town family to see how fast little man is changing. I think he is starting to outgrow the newborn fussy phase and is getting easier everyday. He is so interactive, the smiles and coos are sweet rewards for those fussy times we've had. It's funny how when he looks at me and smiles how I can't help but smile myself and it makes it all worth it.

No hesitation

2010-12-02T10:26:00.004-06:00

After watching Polar Express and many explanations of who Santa is, we went to see him last night. Bailey went right up to him, jumped on his lap, and proceeded to tell him that her name is Bailey Emma Bailey Grady and she wants a tea party for Christmas. I love the Parents as Teachers group, they put on a fun night. We made reindeer food, learned shapes, and made Christmas ornaments. Then we came home and enjoyed an oreo or two. Or four. I thought Christmas was exciting as a kid, but this beats all!

Midnight Ryder

2010-11-28T20:46:00.002-06:00

Thirteen pounds and counting.

Notice the muffin top, even with unbuttoned pants.

Like father like daughter

2010-11-21T21:03:00.002-06:00

Not only does she look like dad, she got his stubborness. A while back, I had put her down for a nap and went downstairs to nurse Ryder. She snuck out of bed and sat at the top of the stairs. Since I couldn't get up, I did every tactic to make her go back to bed without getting up. After I finished nursing, I found her sleeping on the stairs. She's lucky she didn't fall down backwards. Battle of wills, and she definitely won.

Addie

2010-11-19T14:21:00.003-06:00

I took pictures of my sweet niece this week for her one year birthday. I think she has the bluest eyes I have ever seen. Such a cutie. Happy Birthday Addie!

Handsome Devil

2010-11-08T08:39:00.005-06:00

We blessed Ryder yesterday and I must say he looked handsome in his little white suit. I had to lift his chins to put on his bowtie, but we got it on! It was great to have family over, and we missed having family here from Utah, but it was a special day. I feel so lucky to be a mother to my two kids.

I put Ryder in this play gym the other day and found Bailey laying with him. I had so much fun playing with my siblings when I was younger, I hope my kids always have that too.

It's only taken me 4 days to write this post...

2010-11-04T15:18:00.009-05:00

I can't believe it's November already. So much has happened in the past 2 months, I don't know how to cram it all onto my blog. I have so many pictures and could gush all day long about my new little man. Here's a quick version of the birth story: I had been having tons of contractions and we were sure he would come early like Bailey did (she was 3 weeks early). My mom flew out the first weekend in September and then the contractions stopped. We waited and waited and waited for him to come and I was finally induced on my due date (the 29th). It was great having her here to help pass the time and she got to spend some time with Bailey at Chuck E. Cheese, the park, and pumpkin patch. Being induced was not as bad as I thought, everyone told me how horrible it was going to be, but it wasn't bad at all. I went in at 6:30 am and he was born at 1:30. Labor was even easier this time around, I thought (as long as I get an epidural!) My platelet count had been low the whole pregnancy, and they informed me that morning that if they were too low that I wouldn't be able to get an epidural. I squeaked by luckily! Everything was great with labor and with Ryder when he was born. I don't know if his being full term helped, or if it was because I had done it all before, but everything seemed easier this time around. It is definitely more challenging having a 2 year old and a newborn, but it helps that I love them a ton and think they are the cutest kids ever. :) Bailey has been the cutest older sister. She still calls him Baby Bro instead of Ryder and asks to hold him all the time. She loves to kiss him and put his binky back in his mouth when it falls out. She is also really good at giving eskimo kisses. Things are going great, although I think Ryder may be a little colicky. I'm not sure what the factors are that determine colick officially, but I'll be glad when his tummy matures and he grows out of this gassy phase. He is such a cutie and it's funny how just looking at him makes my heart melt. Okay, maybe that was a little longer than the short version. It's hard for proud parents to keep it short about their kids. :) I have so many pictures to post, here are a few of Ryder.

These were taken by my friend Tara. She is an amazing photographer. I have always wanted to have my pictures taken with my baby, but never gotten any with Bailey when she was born. I love how these turned out, thanks Tara! Nevermind the unkept nails and I had to crop out baby belly from some. :)

Of course I have some cute pictures of Snow White and Grumpy from Halloween. Bailey was totally grossed out by carving our pumpkin. And doesn't Ryan make a hot Macgruber?

My friend Amber and I and our families went out a few weeks ago and took family pictures before they moved. They moved back to Utah and I am so sad about it. Her little girl Carmyn and Bailey were best friends and we miss them so much! Bailey still asks about Carmyn and I am going through withdrawals. It's hard when you find such a great friend you get along with so well and have so much in common with (our kids were both close in age) and she lived across the street. I miss having someone to discuss pregnancy pains and two year old frustrations and someone close to call when I NEED TO GET OUT OF THE HOUSE! Amber, I miss you tons! I am sure Utah will treat you well, but we miss you out here!

I think I need to learn how to make a post and not load so many pictures...so hard for me. But here is the last one. Ryder absolutely loves the ceiling fans and smiles at them often. It really takes a lot of work to get him to smile at me, but he is much more free with the ceiling fan, that's what he's smiling at in this picture. I'm glad he's got a buddy that makes him so happy.

I will be better at posting regularly so I don't have to post a million pictures at once.

Finally!

2010-10-02T19:54:00.003-05:00

Ryder Jackson Grady was born on Wednesday and was 7 lbs 13 oz and 21 inches long. Everything went well and we could not love this little man anymore. I will post more info and more pix later, but in the meantime here is a public link to a few pix:

http://www.facebook.com/album.php?aid=97556&id=1202629611&l=6f4344830f

Humongous

2010-09-08T20:19:00.005-05:00

The word of the day this morning on Sesame Street was "humongous." That's how I am feeling these days...humongous. I am due 3 weeks from today, but today the Dr said he will be here any day now. My mom is in town and snapped a few pictures of Bailey and I (and a few were taken by my friend Amber). Sure is nice to have a live-in nanny, I mean mom/grandma! It's been so great to help pass the time. This waiting around for a baby is harder than it sounds. :)

And we have officially crossed into the terrible two's....all I have to say is WOW. Where did my sweet little girl go? I think we have a mix of the terrible two's and grandma-itis...not a good combination. And soon we'll mix a new baby brother into the mix. Sigh. Wish me luck.

This picture says it all.

It's a good thing we have some sweet moments to balance out the bad.

Still nesting...

2010-08-27T16:02:00.006-05:00

I hope this addiction to crafts fades when the baby comes, because I have absolutely no desire to do anything else with my time. Here are a few things I have worked on lately, along with Baby Bro's nursery. I can't wait to fill the empty photo frames with his pictures soon. The crib bedding was made by my friend Angela Muir, here is her blog. She did a great job and I love it! If you are interested in buying crib bedding (or anything else), feel free to leave a comment on her blog. She's great!

This is a cocoon to take pictures of him when he is born.

It blows me away that he'll actually fit in it!

I looked all over for peepee teepees (so you don't get peed on when changing a boy's diaper), and only found one place that sells them...at $5 a piece I might add! So I decided to make my own for much much less. They seriously took a half hour or less to make these. And that half hour will well be worth it I'm sure!!! They're made of flannel and when they get soiled, you can just throw them in the washer. Genius!

Flapper hat for my sister.

Nursery is almost done. Just waiting to decide on a name before hanging a letter on the wall. Hands down, choosing a baby name is the MOST stressful part of having a baby. I almost wish that they came with a name written on the bottom of their foot. That would save much stress and disagreements with the husband.

Sundays

2010-08-23T09:10:00.003-05:00

After naps on Sundays, I start looking for something to do. I can only handle so much "relaxing." Yesterday we went for a ride to see the horses, looked at the moon, and studied the before and after of daddy squishing a caterpillar. A pretty good afternoon. :) Note to self: red is not flattering on the extra pregnancy weight. Please just look at Bailey and the horses...

Healthy snack

2010-08-20T09:32:00.002-05:00

Just enjoying our fruit... and a little chocolate with it.

---------------------

I actually figured a few things out on my camera last night and am starting to feel a little more confident in taking pictures. Of course it really helps to have such cute subjects to shoot...

Long post...

2010-08-19T09:14:00.008-05:00

I've known that Baby Bro could be born within the next few weeks, and it's just really hitting me lately how much my life is going to change. I will have 2 kids, one being a newborn. I remember how much work they are and how little sleep you get, but I also remember how much happiness they bring and how the joy overpowers the hard work and sleeplessness. I've been trying to savor this last little time with Bailey before my time and attention are split between two little ones. I have really, really been enjoying taking her baby doll on walks and painting with water on the porch.

I swear I was just pushing Bailey around in a stroller as a baby.

Art only a mother could love.

I don't know why I get so sentimental when I know a big change is coming... I blame pregnancy hormones. Maybe that's why her first haircut was such a big deal. :) I just evened out the back, but it was still such a big step. Sigh. It's so fun to watch them learn and grow, but hard to watch them not be your little baby anymore. And then to start all over again from scratch.

Before mullet.

Just a little off the bottom.

Not too happy to sit still and not be able to run from the camera.

After mullet.

-----------------------------------------------

I had another ultrasounds yesterday (#7 for this pregnancy) and the ultrasound tech said that he has a fair amount of hair. I was surprised you can see hair in an ultrasound image, but sure enough, there was fuzz. So excited about the hair, and can't wait to see the little guy. My friends gave me such a fun shower last week. Really good food and fun company! And instead of playing games, everyone got to decorate a onesie for baby with heat bond and the cutest patterns ever. Such a CUTE idea! I loved that they all signed who made which one on the bum. Now I have tons of darling (I mean cool, not darling) onesies--still getting used to boy frame of mind. Thanks Amber and Lacey and everyone!

PS What little photography skills I had have gone down the drain. I look at my pictures lately and wonder why they are looking so sad. I am blaming pregnancy brain for this one too. I forget to change my settings and just snap. Someday I will have time to dive back in! Until then, my pictures will most likely continue to have this same quality... sorry. :)

And lastly, anyone have a good suggestion for where to buy a cute, big, but not too expensive diaper bag? I've been looking around, but haven't found the one. My current one is pink and falling apart after 2 years. I'm not looking to spend $100, but want something cute and big enough to hold stuff for 2 kids. If anyone has a go to place, let me know!

Lately

2010-08-03T16:08:00.003-05:00

We made a quick trip to Knoxville Illinois last weekend for Ryan's family reunion. Poor Bailey got up at 5 am and didn't go to sleep until 10 pm with no nap. She was a trooper.

Exploring on the farm.

Meeting new relatives and splashing them in the kiddie pool.

She thought this swing was the best thing in the world. Wish we had a big tree at our house to hang one from. The John Deere power wheels in the background was also a major attraction.

The swing was enjoyed by many!

On a ride to go see the pigs. Man were they gross!

After 11 total hours in the car and the current head advisory, we needed a fun release, so today we went to the indoor play place at Zona Rosa. It was great, aside from me sitting in gum and a major tantrum in the toy store (those clever Toys R Us people knew what they were doing when they put the store RIGHT next to the play place!) I know the pictures are a little far away, that's because I couldn't get myself up off the bench to walk across the play place and bend over to take cuter pictures...definitely feeling 32 weeks pregnant.

Hard to climb in a dress.

Good thing she's flexible.

Mediation

2010-07-29T21:26:00.004-05:00

I finally decided on how to decorate the nursery, and Ryan vetoed because he thinks it's too girly. It hadn't even crossed my mind, so I wanted to take a poll to see other comments. I want to paint a tree on the wall--all one color (cream) with leaves...no flowers. Be honest, I want to know what other people think.

As a precurser to this, I had bought a pair of blue and brown baby leggings in Utah. They were striped and not girly at all. Ryan threw a huge fit and demanded I return them...no son of his was wearing leggings! My argument was that it's a BABY boy, and they are practical in the winter and make changing diapers easier. Ultimately, I ended up exchanging them for a pair of football socks. I think he should give in on this one, it's his turn. I'm definitely not giving in to the fathead that he wants to put on the wall.

I admit I don't have much experience with boy things and tend to gravitate to the girly, but I'll get the hang of it. I look forward to being able to watch a football game and understand what is happening. And I have bought him some Nike warm up pants and plaid button up shirts. I think it's a good start. I'll get better.

Yummy Granola

2010-07-29T11:30:00.002-05:00

Thought I would post this yummy Cherry Almond and Cinnamon Granola recipe. So yummy....enjoy!

4 c oats

2 c sweetened shredded coconut

2 c sliced almonds

1 1/2 dried cherries, chopped (or craisins)

1/2 c veg oil

1/3 c honey

2 tsp cinnamon

Preheat oven to 350. Toss oats, coconut, almonds, and cherries in large bowl. Add veg oil, honey, and cinnamon and stir to coat. Pour into cookie sheet and bake 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally until brown.

I ♥ nesting.

2010-07-28T16:25:00.002-05:00

Now I just need a little head to fill them.

Blog purge

2010-07-20T12:37:00.011-05:00

I tend to wait and post a bunch all at once. Better bunched together than not at all, right? I can't believe July is almost over, I am just getting to posting the July 4th pix. There was so much buildup for the big fireworks, Bailey was so excited, and it was rained out. We got to watch them the following weekend and she hated them. We did have fun at the neighborhood bike parade and bbq. Bailey also had fun with her friend Noah at a BBQ too. It was a good (hot) 4th. The sugar cookies were the highlight for me. :) And that's why there are no pictures posted of me and fat pregnancy face...too many sugar cookies and many many other things. My mom always made sugar cookies for the major holidays and now I crave them each holiday.

It was also her first night sleeping in the new big girl bed. It was a success! I was worried about the transition to a new room, but she did great! A bunch of mod podge and spray paint later, and she loves her new room.

Growing up much too fast for me. I had to post some cute pictures of her running and playing with dad outside (complete with cookie crumbs on her face, of course). She prefers to be outside, no matter what the temperature or humidity level. She definitely did not get that from me.

It was also our anniversary last week, 8 YEARS! Um, I have a hard time saying that. It makes me feel so old. Ryan took me to Piropos at Briarcliff and it was amazing Argentine food! We sat at a table with a great view of downtown and I only had to coax him twice about his manners. :) The food was SO good, and we had the best dessert- you need to try it. It was a bowl of fresh blackberries, raspberries, bananas, and strawberries with a creme anglaise sauce, with vanilla bean ice cream, and drizzled with imported Argentine dulce de leche caramel sauce. Oh yum! Happy Anniversary Ry! Not sure how I got so lucky to be married to such a great guy. He is the best dad in the world, and a great husband. Love you!

Next project is Baby Bro's room. (No name yet! But we are graciously taking suggestions!) I ordered fabric online and am having the bedding made. It will look like this.

I am in love with the yellow and grey right now. I plan to make matching curtains and my mom is making a matching quilt. Just nervous about the time, it's sneaking up on me faster than I thought!

My Bailey Blog

2010-07-02T09:50:00.005-05:00

I have to apologize, I really don't have much going on, and almost all of my posts revolve around Bailey. But that's my life right now, so here are more cute pictures of my girl. I realized recently I hadn't been taking any pictures of her at all, and have been trying to keep the camera out and snap a few here and there. Ryan reminded me last night that I will be 30 and have 2 kids soon, so I think with that said, I think my kids being my life is justified. I don't travel to exotic places, I don't have a high paying job, I don't touch a lot of people's lives, but I absolutely love my life and wouldn't change anything. I am completely content taking Bailey to the sandbox to play, watching her run through the sprinkler, and cutting up apples and grapes for lunch. I guess it is a high paying job (in and hugs and kisses) and has great benefits and rewards (waking up to this happy girl).

Golden Girls Club

2010-07-01T14:53:00.003-05:00

My friend Lacey taught me how to knit and this is my first project I am proud of. A few of us get together and knit and Ryan has named us the "Golden Girls Club." This is the one rare time Bailey kept the hat on. After all those hours of knitting and she hates wearing it. At least I got a picture.

Nemo Party!

2010-06-28T15:54:00.003-05:00

We had a successful Nemo party for Bailey this weekend. It was sure a lot of work for a 2 year old party, but she had fun, so it was all worth it! As long as she's happy, I'm happy! :) Thanks to everyone who came to help us celebrate and thanks to out of town family who couldn't be here, but were still apart of her birthday!

My Baby

2010-06-24T15:13:00.001-05:00

Someone is turning 2! I can't believe my little baby will be 2. I can't believe how she fills up the crib when she is sleeping. Or how she can tell me exactly what she wants. Or how she pretend cooks. Or talks to baby bro and kisses my tummy. Why is growing up such an emotional thing (or is it pregnancy hormones?!?) It's such a happy thing to see her grow and learn, but at the same time it is so emotional to think back over everything we've been through with her the past 2 years. I used to get asked what my favorite stage of having a baby is, and my answer is definitely whatever the stage they are at when you ask me. I can't wait for all of the new things she will do in the next year and beyond. I can't believe how much I love this little girl and how lucky I am to be her mama. I love you Bailey!

Man, it's humid!

2010-05-19T16:45:00.009-05:00

We have a pretty accurate indoor humidity gauge that tells how humid it is outside by the curliness of Bailey's hair. We had some rainy days last week that were on the high end of the scale...

It's not in my perfectionist nature to finish projects in a timely manner, but lately I have been plowing through them. I think it's the pregnancy nesting that is pushing my motivation. But whatever it is, I'll take it! Here are a few:

Ryan and I found this old chair in a dumpster a while back. We sanded it, painted it, and had the cushion reupholstered. It turned out not too bad for a free chair.

Bailey's flip book to keep familiar with out of state family members to look at on the airplane:

I was spoiled on mothers day and got a kitchenaid mixer. I've been experimenting with homemade cinnamon rolls, bread, and rolls. I even wore an apron while making them and felt so domestic! Much easier than I had thought!

I hung my gallery picture frames. A few still empty, but Bailey's 2 year pictures will be filling them soon.

And I painted and hung shelves and a mirror on that big blank wall in my living room that I posted about a while back. I'm super happy with how it turned out, but am not quite finished yet, so I'll post pics when it's all done.

Bailey has also been working hard on playdough projects...

Onto the next! Bailey's Nemo birthday party, baby boy room, and Bailey's big girl bed. Oh, and a little project of potty training. How is it that the list never ends? I'm actually a little glad that with this pregnancy I can't sleep and get up early, it's coming in handy.

It's a boy!

2010-05-10T12:14:00.001-05:00

Ryan DOES know, I couldn't keep it to myself.

2010-04-29T11:19:00.002-05:00

I felt the baby kick for the first time last night...really kick. My good friend just had a baby, and I find out what we're having in one week. It's starting to feel real and so exciting. It's good to get a little kick as a reminder of what's happening in there. Next step: nursery, big girl bed, and much decorating...

Bragging Rights

2010-04-28T12:46:00.004-05:00

My little baby is changing so much lately, I wanted to document some of the new things she is doing lately. She is starting to act like a 2 year old, which makes me a little sad. But I love watching her learn and grow into such a big girl.

Lets me straighten her hair with a flat iron because it's "pretty."
Heard a little boy sneezing over and over yesterday and has been fake sneezing for 2 days.
Starting to put words together: dada home, night-night time, winnie pooh,
End of an era...refuses to sit in a shopping cart. My shopping days are done and I'm crushed.
Loves to rub my feet with lotion...asks every night.
Takes good care of her babies. I asked her what her baby's name was today and she said, "Meat!"
I ask where mama's baby is and she points to my tummy. What a good big sister.
Will cuddle in a blanket and watch movies with me...my favorite.
Absolutely LOVES having her nails painted and shows them off to everyone (including the toddler time teacher at the library).
Is such a good girl, I couldn't ask for a better daughter. She is so mellow and a good girl.
Surprises me all the time with new words and things she understands that I didn't teach her.
Loves to sing on cue. We're hoping for American Idol.

It's a little weird to me to think about starting all over with a new little one. I find out next week what we're having, although I won't be able to post since Ryan refuses to find out. Anyone ever find out but your husband didn't find out with your babies? I'm curious if it really lasted the whole pregnancy. At least it gives me total free reign with the nursery. I'm sure I will slip and blow it for him. We'll see how long it lasts...

2010-04-20T12:20:00.003-05:00

Not quite 2 years old yet, but having 2 year old moments...

2010-04-05T14:46:00.002-05:00

Not much new to post, but I do have some cute Easter pix. Bailey makes everything more interesting. She entertained me through general conference and makes holidays so much more fun. She thought each talk in conference was a prayer and folded her arms through most of the sessions. She was fascinated with the Mormon Tabernacle Choir and said, "Sing!" whenever they came on. It's hard to think back to what life was like before she was born!

Desperately Need Advice...

2010-04-01T15:59:00.005-05:00

I have put off decorating my front living room for much too long, simply because I can't make up my mind on what to do. It's a huge blank wall, and I need to do something that will take up a lot of space. I tried doing a collage of different frames, mirrors, etc. but it just didn't work. I am totally stumped and am going nuts looking at a blank wall and coming home from Hobby Lobby empty handed. I know all of you out there are amazing decorators and I'm hoping someone can give me some inspiration! This is the blank wall on the left, and I will hang teal and chocolate brown damask curtains on the windows. Please help!!!!!!!

Reason for delay in posts.

2010-03-11T15:06:00.005-06:00

Grouchy......check.

Weepy........check.

Huge.........check.

Sick as a dog.......check.

Yep.......doing it all again. Due in September. I'm curious as to why my friends made having a second kid look so easy, because it's not. :) Very deceptive.

Spending the last month on the couch has really limited the quantity of pictures I have taken. It was good timing though because Bailey was sick during the same time. Maybe I'm just a proud mama, but I think her nebulizer mask is cute. (It was not serious and she is better). The trick is a movie and coloring book and naming the mask Nemo. She is actually smiling in this picture, but don't notice how I have the right side cutting off her ear and it looks like Sloth from Goonies.

She has so much fun playing with her friend Carmyn, I had to post these cute pix too.

2010-02-15T14:10:00.002-06:00

My sweethearts....

My third love...

Double Trouble

2010-02-04T15:33:00.002-06:00

Bailey and her friend Carmyn are getting more and more creative in entertaining themselves.

I have the cutest pictures when we put them both in the bath yesterday, but it's sad that nowadays I question if it's appropriate to post naked pictures of 2 little tikes under 2 years old. It's purely innocent, but I've been reminded lately of the crazies out there and so I will refrain from posting. But you can imagine how cute it is. :)

Spring Fever

2010-02-02T13:06:00.002-06:00

Warm weather, where are you? I am craving sandals, capris, swimming, tans, snow cones, playgrounds, and green grass. Let the warm weather shopping begin.

New Toys

2010-02-01T21:53:00.005-06:00

A new potty and doggy-sitting have been such great entertainment lately. We're far off from even using the potty, but it is fun to practice and watch movies on. I'm still coming to terms that I will soon have a daughter old enough to potty train! I am very sentimental about milestones (well, pretty much every little thing too). What can I say, I am a proud mama.

We have been doggy-sitting for my mother in law and Bailey learned so much today.

Dogs have ears,

dogs have pretty necklaces,

dogs are soft (and patient)

we love to hug dogs

Bailey loves Sam.

It's a good thing we can go see Sam anytime we want because I am far from a dog person. This little girl is all the entertainment I need.

Feliz cumpleanos!

2010-01-27T09:08:00.003-06:00

Happy Birthday Ryan!!!!!!

It's the BIG 30 this Friday, but you still look like a young spring chicken. I can't believe you are such an old man now. I'll never forget your birthday party 8 years ago, one of the first times we ever hung out. There was you, your 3 roomates, me, and 30 other girls. What a great party. I'm glad you dropped your Ethics class and we ended up in the same class together. I'm glad you called me to study for the tests (I know now that you really weren't a big studier). I'm glad this is where we are 8 years later. I'm glad you are the best dad in the world, one of my favorite qualities about you. You work so hard for us and we love you so much! We hope you have the best birthday ever and look forward to new adventures in the next year. Happy Birthday!

This is it

2010-01-21T17:57:00.004-06:00

A long long time ago, when I was a lot younger and imagined far in the future

whenI would have kids, this is what I imagined...

Fair Weathered Friend

2010-01-21T17:50:00.004-06:00

Bailey is quite the mama's girl when we are alone. But whenever we are around another woman, I am old news. She follows my friends around, waves to the ladies at the store, and totally ignores me when there is someone better around. She is obsessed with my friend Amber when she comes over. She begs for Amber to hold her and wants to sit on her lap all of the time. This is pretty early to be embarrassed of your mother....

What a compliment

2010-01-18T21:40:00.003-06:00

Ryan and I were watching the Bachelor tonight lying on the couch and Bailey came at me full force with a book straight for my face. Ryan stopped her and said, "No, no no. We don't hit mama. She is a frail leaf." Coming from Ryan, this is a compliment (I promise). I'll take it.

Something new (actually something old)

2010-01-14T15:30:00.004-06:00

One of my recent obsessions is crafty blogs where genius women do amazing and cheap projects. I wish I were one of those women. What holds me back is my lack of risk-taking, inability to make decisions, and guts. (oh, and skills). I really do long to go to thrift stores and find a gem, bring it home and fix it up and hang it in my perfectly decorated house all in the same day. But in reality, it's more like I go to the thrift store with my 18 month old running away from me in the store and trying to find her sippy cup that she threw on the floor, and the best thing I can find is a book on the Backstreet boys, so I come home empty handed and ignore my several unfinished projects (true story). Baby steps. I won this mirror in a heated white elephant party at Christmastime. It is from one of Ryan's relatives, and really pretty (and really gold). I bought antique glaze and started slapping it on and rubbing it off. I'm one of those who will stand with a paint brush in hand and stare at the project not knowing what to do or where to start. But I'm happy with how it turned out. Not bad for 8 bucks. And the biggest accomplishment for me....I started and finished all in the same day. I'm hoping it's one step closer to becoming a crafty homemaker. (Depending on how it looks when it dries....)

BEFORE

AFTER

Project #2

I saw one of my friend's pictures of her little toddler on facebook, and she was sitting on this gorgeous little damask upholstered chair and I fell in love with it. I have looked high and low for something similar, and had no luck. When I went out to Utah in November, my mom brought out this little rocking chair that my grandma bought me when I was little (thus the 70's colors. I'm not that old, I was born in the 80's, just for the record). I shipped it home and have these crazy thoughts of reupholstering it with a cute modern material. But this one I really am terrified of tearing it apart and then getting stuck and not knowing how to proceed or just ruining it somehow since it's sentimental. I am definitely not willing to pay someone to upholster it for me (way overpriced!) If someone has experience in this area, I would love to get together or hear from you. I can already see it done in my mind, so so cute.

Hopefully someday this will be a "before" picture.

If anyone has any fun crafty blogs you follow, let me know about them! I love skimming through them and getting ideas.

On a roll

2010-01-07T15:10:00.002-06:00

THIS

is a result of

THIS.

With this frigid weather (the high tomorrow is 1 degree), Bailey and I have been stuck inside. What to do? We have resorted to painting nails and dying hair, cleaning and organizing the house, and watching Desperate Housewives reruns.

It has been so nice to be forced to workout and do much needed cleaning, it actually feels really good. I'm hoping it feels so good that I continue to keep it up even after we're not snowed in. I confess, these are not new year resolutions, just purely boredom and not being able to spend my time doing something else. But the fact that Bailey's closet and all baby clothes are now organized and labeled in boxes, and the guest bedroom is clean might be enough to keep going. (By the way, how do unused bathrooms get SO dirty?!?!?)

Any out of town visitors, please feel free to come visit. You have a clean room and eager hosts! (On second thought, maybe wait 3 or 4 months for better weather and when I'm not so sore from doing my Turbojam workout).

Merriest Christmas

2009-12-29T15:10:00.006-06:00

Christmas this year was amazing. This year was so much fun with Bailey, even setting out cookies was more fun. Once she got the hang of ripping wrapping paper, it was all downhill from there. It was so fun watching her open presents that she got excited about. She wasn't sure about her fort at first, but once dad got in, she was loving it.

Just admiring from the outside...

Dad played in it just as much as Bailey did.

Getting the hang of it...

Now we can't keep her out of it.

I love the morning sleepy eyes and wild hair pictures. Still a little groggy.

And we had a great time with Ryan's family (and a lot of good food). I was a little sad I wouldn't see my family this year for Christmas, but my own little family helped me forget. It's been fun starting our own traditions. I am so blessed to have a perfect little girl and a great husband. I don't know what is so magical about Christmas Eve and Christmas morning, but spending that time with my family was the one of the best times of the last year for me. Hope everyone had a great Christmas with your families.

Holy Mullet

2009-12-22T19:57:00.003-06:00

Before the flat iron....

and after.

Embarrassing moment

2009-12-16T09:41:00.003-06:00

We have had problems with our smoke alarms since we moved in. We have chirping, beeping, and full alarms going off here and there. (Why does it happen in the middle of the night when Ryan is out of town? How does it know?) We had one detector completely replaced, and then a small roof leak with water coming down the detector. I don't even know how many new batteries I have put in there. Too many to count. I have been worrying lately that they wouldn't really work if an emergency did happen and wanted to have them tested. So I called the "non-emergency" number to the fire department and spoke to a very non-enthusiastic gentleman (I could just picture him in my mind...chubby, suspenders, salt and pepper beard...) He sighed and agreed to send someone over to test the alarms and then hung up on me. I thought a trained man with a clipboard would come and actually test the alarms. Nope. The big red truck comes and parks in front of my house and 4 burly men in suspenders and big boots knock on my door and ask, "Did you call the fire department ma'am?" Uh, yes, yes I did. They come in and look at my detector and tell me I need to replace the batteries and make me feel embarrassed for having even called. They proceeded to explain that when it chirps, that means the batteries need to be replaced. Duh! They were polite enough, but still the whole thing was just embarrassing and I wish I had never called. And to top it off, the detector that they took off the ceiling and then put back on chirped for about an hour after they left, which Bailey was terrified of. So that was my day yesterday. I still need new batteries....

The Countdown

2009-12-12T16:09:00.003-06:00

This will be our first Christmas here in our own house this year and I am so excited to start some family traditions. My friends and I made advent calendars and I am excited to start using it today to countdown to Christmas (today's task is to help Bailey write a letter to Santa). They turned out pretty cute and I am hoping that it's something my kids will look forward to each year.

I will be sad to miss out on my family's traditions, but my mom told me this week that we are going to webcam one of our traditions on Christmas Eve, so it's the next best thing! One thing I love about my family is how we look forward to and enjoy spending time together. We love traditions and really have fun together. I will definitely miss my family, but I hope it's something that I can create in my own family.

Good day

2009-12-11T10:39:00.003-06:00

Today is a good day. I can always find reasons to think otherwise, but I woke up this morning and just felt like today is a good day. Things are good. I have an adorable little girl that I get to spend the day with, dishes are done, I don't have to go anywhere, Christmas tree is up, I have a great life with lots of blessings. Life is good.

Stranded

2009-12-09T11:23:00.005-06:00

Since we are stranded at home today due to the weather (by the way...why did I get 2 calls this morning at 6 am letting me know the schools were cancelled???) I thought I would update my blog. I actually finished another project that is blogworthy. Although, I won't post when I actually started it. It took much more time and $ than I had thought, but I am happy with it. Not only is it magnetic for pictures, but it is also a toddler magnet. Now, if anyone has any advice on how to hang this seriously heavy board on my wall without totally destroying it....PLEASE let me know! Not only to save my walls, but also a potential marital spat.

Bailey and I just got back from Utah last week and have a few pictures to post. We had a great time seeing everyone. But it never fails, whenever we fly home we get sick. So we are still paying the consequences from the trip, but it was worth it! Vernal City does a celebration the day after Thanksgiving and Bailey got to ride a pony. She loved it and made horse sounds for about 30 minutes afterwards. She was a good sport because it was SO cold, but she had a good time walking around with Papa and Uncle Rhet. She also went on a 4wheeler ride with Papa and Rhet, although I could tell from her face that she was freezing. It was a quick ride. It was a fun trip, Bailey loved seeing everyone, and with all of the good food, I was able to grow some love handles from the trip. It's a good thing I don't go home more often or I would be in trouble. At Nana's house, you can eat whatever you want, eat lunch with your balloon, and catch grandma-itis. Unfortunately, that condition is still showing many symptoms.

Messy Morning

2009-11-13T15:09:00.003-06:00

Today was the big Messy Morning activity. There was finger painting, coloring, painting, play dough, dry oatmeal to play in, and lots of fun activities. She liked the fingerpainting for 30 seconds, and the shaving cream until she tasted it and gagged several times. What she really liked was walking around the playground across the street. She was more mesmerized with walking on the rocks and putting them on things than any of the organized activities. I guess the best things in life really are free.

Goodbye Fall

2009-11-09T16:35:00.004-06:00

I'm afraid Fall is on its way out, it went by way too fast. The christmas music on the radio and christmas trees in the shopping centers has made that clear. Most of the bright leaves have fallen, leaving sad wintery trees. It's coming, I know it is. I'm not ready for snow and cold and Christmas shopping. I'm just not. I didn't even get around to buying a pumpkin this year. It's almost Thanksgiving, and only 46 days until Christmas. Woah. Where is the time going? I would like to find out and get it back.

Probably last outdoor photos before winter.

Every time I take photos of Bailey, I get at least one of these. And yes, she stole that toy from a baby. Sorry Tara.

Daughters

2009-11-06T14:16:00.003-06:00

I never thought having a daughter would be as much fun as it is. I knew the dresses and hairbows would be fun and bought them before Bailey was born. But having a daughter fulfills something in me that I didn't know was lacking. This little 16 month old girl is my best friend. I used to hate going anywhere by myself, and now I have my own personal shopping buddy and girls night friend. After a full day of shopping today, I looked up at Bailey in the rear view mirror and she grinned at me showing me all of her teeth and put her hand up to give me 5 and I had a moment. Man, I just love this little girl! The Wendy's fries were well deserved! I have several really good friends out here...really good friends that I am lucky to know and it makes living away from my family much much easier. But it's funny how my 16 month old daughter is one of my best friends. My little Bailey, you make me so happy!

You guessed it....

2009-11-02T16:16:00.005-06:00

Surprise...I am posting some proud parent halloween pictures. I forgot my memory card Halloween night, but luckily my mother in law took one for me, and I had taken some of Bailey beforehand in her costume. She liked walking around and hearing the dogs bark when we knocked on the doors more than the candy. And yes, I have eaten almost all of her candy.

Finally old enough to be agreeable and actually smile in some pictures.

Not a bad costume for 4 bucks.

I take back the first caption. She seems to smile for other people, but the majority of the pictures I take of her turn out like this.

Bootylicious

It seems like once Halloween is over, the rest of the year flies by. It's already time to start thinking about Christmas gifts. I felt stressed out with buying gifts last year, and am hoping to get done early this year and enjoy the season. And with this time of year, I am craving a trip home to Utah, anyone know of any deals or tricks to getting a good deal on a flight? I really want to go home in November, but it seems all of the last minute bookings are more expensive. Why is that? I would think the airlines would want to fill last minute flights and would reduce the price. Wish I had one of those teleporters from Star Trek...

The projects

2009-10-26T12:40:00.003-05:00

For those of you who know me well, you know I can't make a decision to save my life. I return everything I buy because I can't decide and take months to finish projects. But I had to document that I actually completed a project. From beginning to end, it was just about 2 weeks (not bad for me). I stenciled my living room and hearth room niche. Stenciling sounds like a lot of work, and IT IS! It took me 5 days to finish everything, and many sore muscles. I mostly feel bad about neglecting Bailey for 5 days straight, but you can see that she found ways to entertain herself. I really have no idea how she got the skipbo cards there, but I got a good laugh out of it. (If you are at my house and don't want to play skipbo, I completely understand). I ended up pushing all of my furniture into a circle around the TV and that's where she played for the 5 days. She hated it. Trying to clip her toenails kept her busy for a while. Anyway, one project down and several more on my list.

Living room still not decorated, that's coming. Don't judge me.

Also, I had to post the best birthday gift ever. Bailey said "birthday" to me this weekend. It melted my heart. This cute camera strap cover was a close second though. It was from my friend Amber, how cute is that! (Yep, it's hard to take a picture of the strap cover on the camera...but I managed). It even has a slot for the cap. Like I said, I can't have too much damask!

My new obsessions...

2009-10-14T22:06:00.006-05:00

Damask, felt flowers, and white chocolate rice krispies.

I made rice krispie treats for a baby shower last week and dipped the edges in white chocolate and rolled them in blue sprinkles, and I can't stop eating them! It doesn't sound like a big deal, but try them, they are delish and extremely addicting. And I can't stop stenciling damask on things. Too fun. I have made some christmas gifts with damask (can't post pictures!), making a magnetic board for my kitchen, and stenciling my living room with a glaze once I get the guts. There is always something that could use a little damask...

And I had leftover felt from Bailey's halloween costume and thought

I would make a flower to pin to her shirt as part of the costume (lady bug) and found some really cute felt flowers online. I have made a few clippies for her hair and a big black one for her costume. I found this pink one online, isn't it adorable? It is my goal to make one of these. I don't know what for, maybe on my purse or a bag or something, but I just want one.

I am also obsessed with pictures of my baby. Had to post a few. I am extremely excited to post that she is falling asleep on her own! I don't know what I did to deserve this life-changing miracle, but it happened out of the blue. I put a pillow and blanket in her crib and play a music box for her and it's magic! She lays down without any crying and falls asleep. Yes, this is a REALLY BIG deal for me (just read a few posts back).

Smarty Pants

2009-10-05T21:42:00.003-05:00

She is too smart for her own britches. While vacuuming today, the chord knocked over some big glass vases with rocks and candles in them. Luckily, they didn't break, but were pretty loud when the fell on the wood floor. We have made it clear that these are "no no's" and off limits. Bailey came running over while I was cleaning them up and shouted "NO NO NO NO NO NO NO!!!" to me and was quite clear in reminding me that these are off limits and a big "No no!" Does this mean I can't make any mistakes in front of her now?!? She seems all too happy to remind me. This could be bad...

Bad Hair Day

2009-09-30T09:54:00.005-05:00

Did you ever have a bad haircut, pouted all night afterwards, and then woke up the next morning feeling like a shaved dog? Hello hair extensions...

I have lived in Missouri for 2 1/2 years and have had ONE haircut that I have liked the entire time. (And she no longer does hair. Just my luck) Am I really going to have to fly to Utah for a haircut?!?!?

Down and Dirty

2009-09-23T14:04:00.009-05:00

Bailey had a good time getting down and dirty at the playground. Digging in the dirt almost rubbed off all of that pretty pink nail polish.

Obviously, sharing is one thing we are working very hard on. The expressions say so much. Notice the tight grips.

Yes, she always walks with her hands up like this. They are slowly getting lower.

I was so excited to get a smiling picture. She almost always ignores me when I have my camera. I appreciate them so much more now. She wasn't smiling at me though, she was peering around me and smiling at someone else. I'll take what I can get.

A good day

2009-09-21T19:41:00.003-05:00

Yesterday was a good day. Sometimes I unload on my blog on the bad days, so I thought I would post a happy note. Nothing special, but everything went right. I have a sense of accomplishment after getting almost everything done today that I wanted to. It also helped that I read President Monson's talk, "Be of Good Cheer," from the last conference Ensign. He tells 3 stories of people who go through painful, unimaginable trials, which really broke my heart, and how not to just carry on and overcome, but how there is nothing in this world that can defeat us. And to simply be of good cheer. If anyone needs a reality check or a little perspective, please read it.

Girls Night

2009-09-18T19:51:00.005-05:00

A night of Bluebell cookie dough ice cream, foot sugar scrub and toenail painting, snuggling in cupcake jammies and watching movies. Dad's missing out!

Longest Post Ever...

2009-09-14T14:20:00.006-05:00

I admit it, I have been a horrible blogger. But here is one of my longest posts. Lots on my mind...

With no exaggerations, I have little spare time with trying to keep up with Bailey. How do people do it? I must be a less than par mother, because it is taking everything I have. :) Before I had a baby, I would see the haggard mother at the grocery store with 3 small kids tearing things off the shelves and shouting with runny noses and dirty fingers. She looked tired and worn out and like she didn't have much time to get herself ready. She was trying to pay for her groceries, keep her kids from tearing things off the shelves, and trying to calm the crying baby in the cart. Not that I was smug about it, but I thought that I would never be that mother. But I am realizing that I am slowly turning into her. It seems inevitable. I admit, I'm not a perfect mother. I seem to lose my patience more than I would like, and my house is not always clean. I've done a few things wrong....(if anyone can give advice on how to teach a TODDLER how to fall asleep on their own, I would be very interested!) I was thinking about all of the stressful and hard things this morning while I was driving around trying to get Bailey to sleep (yep, I'm one of those). A little later, I was rocking her to sleep (or attempting anyway) and she pushed herself up off my shoulder, puckered, gave me a kiss on the lips, smiled, and snuggled back down into my shoulder. And I realized I don't care what I'm turning into. I'll take all the hard and the bad. It's funny what a little gesture like that can do. It can totally turn my whole day around and bring tears to my eyes. It can change my whole perspective on many things. I'm lucky to have such a sweet little girl with me. So if you see me at the gas station in my flip flops, pajama pants, and air-dried hair, I am probably filling up my tank to drive Bailey around to get her to sleep. Just honk and wave and post some parenting advice on my blog, please.

On a much lighter note, I have many pictures to post of fun things we have been lucky enough to do lately. Saturday was my niece's birthday party at Chuck E. Cheese. Bailey had a blast. It was so crowded and noisy, but her favorite part was just walking around among all of the chaos.

We also met my family in Denver last weekend. It was so nice to see everyone and let Bailey and my niece, Gracy play together. They are only 3 days apart, so it is so fun to get them together and see how similar and very different they are. We went to the aquarium in Denver, and the girls loved it. I have to say, it was better than the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago (I still haven't posted that trip). It was a short weekend, but well worth the drive.

I have also been trying to make time for photography. Here are a few pictures I've taken lately. I know a lot of you out there are photographers. If you have taken classes or have advice in getting started, I would love to hear about it. I'm at the point now where I think I am learning the most just by experience, getting out and trying new things. Books I have read can get so technical. So if anyone has advice of things they have done and would recommend, please let me know. Or even cool places around the Liberty/Kansas City area to take pictures. I had to post a few of Bailey's friend Carmyn, too. She is so cute and easy to take pictures of (Bailey hates my camera and won't look at me when I have it).

Also, here is a picture of Bailey eating lettuce...is that normal? I don't even really like lettuce. She seemed to love it today at lunch, and I thought it was odd. And her favorite baby food was broccoli. I hope this is a good indication of her future eating habits! (She sure didn't get them from me). She 14 months now (holy cow!) and is walking like a pro. She has 12 teeth and I think her eye teeth are trying to pop through. She says pretty, mama, dada, nana, papa, blanket, dog dog, uh-oh, no, and many others (including butt and poop--thanks dad). She loves to make animal sounds and point to her ears, eyes, teeth and nose. She is a little sponge, I can almost see the wheels turning while she learns.

I plan to update more often, if I am lucky enough to have Bailey take a nap again...pray for me.

Country Gal

2009-08-23T22:03:00.006-05:00

On our trip last week, we stopped to visit Ryan's grandparents in Knoxville, IL and went out to Ry's uncle's farm. It was really pretty there, they have a cute little pond and a pumpkin patch. Bailey had fun finding the little yellow pumpkins and picking zucchini and squash (check out the monster zucchini!) I have never grown my own garden, but have really enjoyed making things with the fresh veggies. I felt so domestic and started getting the itch to grow a garden of my own. :) Maybe that would be a goal to shoot for next year. I was so excited to take lots of pictures of Bailey in front of this old shed and exploring on the farm, and she fell asleep on the 4wheeler ride and cut my fun short. (Apologies for none of the photos being edited...I pass the blame onto my smart mac. Still smarter than me anyway...)

Blog Purge

2009-08-19T15:42:00.005-05:00

I haven't blogged since June, and have so much to post. My laptop is running out of memory and is close to death, so I got a new computer and have been trying to load and organize all of my pictures, thus my blog has been put on hold. (I only have a thousand or more pictures that I've taken since my last post!) So much has happened in the last few months, I will have to post in pieces. Some of the things that have happened is Bailey's first birthday (she's walking now by the way!), trip to Utah, trip to Chicago and Indianapolis, and Bailey at the farm. I am really trying to figure out this computer, but am feeling quite unintelligent. The salespeople kept telling me Macs are so easy to use. That makes me feel even worse. I know, it's time to get rid of this Ace Ventura picture. It's been up so long, it's time for another haircut for Ryan.

Here are pictures from today. One of Marilyn Monroe standing on the AC vent, and one making a cement garden stone. Am I crazy for trying to make a handprint with a 1 year old by myself? YES! It only took 3 tries to get the handprint. For some reason she couldn't keep away from it, but when I wanted to stick her hand in it she was suddenly scared and decided to cry and run away. More pictures of my sweetie to come...

It finally happened...

2009-06-07T10:10:00.004-05:00

Before:

AFTER:

Bailey was actually scared of Ry after he cut his hair. She stared at him and whimpered when he came close to her. I actually did the same before he cut his hair. Just kidding. Ry, I love you even with crazy hair. :) And I finally got some pix of Bailey at the pool. She had a blast this time, she kicked like a mermaid and cried when we took her out of the water.

Little girl

2009-06-04T19:29:00.003-05:00

Today was a proud day for mama. Bailey got her first pigtails and man, she's cute. I was surprised at how much older she looks. She looks like a little girl, not my little baby anymore. I love that little girl!

New Pix

2009-06-02T14:30:00.002-05:00

Nothing new to write about, just some new pix to post. We went to the lake Memorial weekend and the pool for the first time last weekend and it took Bailey a while to warm up to the water.
She hated the mud and hated the grass, but the baby cheesey puffs made it all better. She can say mama and uh-oh, roll a ball, and has started signing. She can do the signs for "more" and "milk." It's my favorite to see her chubby little hands making the signs.

Hypothetically...

2009-05-16T13:52:00.004-05:00

So if there is a mom who has a young toddler who has suddenly become mobile and the mom suddenly can't get anything done and is going crazy and can't find anything to entertain the toddler...hypothetically...what would the mom do? Just wondering.

I am so sad the Office is over for the summer. I guess I'll have to watch the Bachelorette instead. Did anyone else watch the Office finale? I thought it was just alright until the last few minutes, it made it all worth it. I am totally excited. I had a dream my sister was dating Jim and broke up with him and I was so sad. Love that show.

I am having a really hard time accepting that Bailey is almost a year old. She is such a big girl now and I can't believe how fast it's gone. She is learning new things everyday and wants to walk to so badly. She throws cute tantrums and make me laugh all the time (I think they're hilarious). I just can't believe my punkin is growing up.

PS: If you see Ryan, tell him to cut his hair... (not that I told you to)

Catch up

2009-05-06T15:46:00.003-05:00

I haven't blogged in such a long time that when I finally checked friends's blogs, I found out there are a few babies on the way I didn't know of and friends have moved. I feel so detached. :) I deliberately didn't blog for a while because I felt I was always on my laptop and needed to spend my time doing other things. I felt guilty that Bailey was getting as obsessed with my laptop as I was; she loves to pound the keys and scratch the stickers on it. I also discovered that some of your blogs are now private, so please add me if you haven't!!! But I was sad when I found out how much I missed out on in my friends's lives. So back to blogging, although I am not sure that I have any big news from the last 2 months.

Ryan is busy with work and church as usual. He hasn't cut his hair in months, (I thought only teenagers did that???) and is growing a lovely mullet. I would post a picture, but am not allowed to post pix of him without verbal consent.

I am keeping busy with Bailey and projects. When you are home everyday, it's funny how much that motivates you to make changes to your house. I haven't done anything big, just little decorating things here and there, but wish there was an endless house budget somewhere I could take advantage of to finish off my long list. And I have really enjoyed learning more about photography. And I am toying with the idea of cutting my hair off. I'm bracing myself for the humid summer. If anyone has short hair advice, please comment! Have you cut your hair and regretted it? Loved it? Recommend it? I have had long hair for so long, I wonder if I will go into shock. I am thinking about an A-line cut where the front hits right below the shoulders and the back is shorter. I am too tall, have too small of a head, and have uneven shoulders (broken collar bone) and can't pull off a shorter haircut than that, although I would love to. If anyone watches One Tree Hill (I don't, I was flipping through the channels and saw it), Sophia Bush's hair is what got me thinking about cutting it. For those who know me really well, you know I can't make a decision on my own, so I welcome comments. :)

Bailey has changed lots in 2 months! She has 6 teeth, is becoming an army-crawl pro, and is developing more and more personality everyday. She loves to imitate movements and sounds and give slobbery kisses, which I can't get enough of. I can't believe she'll be a year old soon!!! I seriously am having a hard time accepting it. She has a new friend that is a year old and loves playdates (almost as much as mom does). Bailey is pretty strong and not afraid to steal bottles and toys though, hopefully we can teach her to share soon. I bought Bailey a pool floatie yesterday, we are just counting down the days for the pool to open.

Sorry I have been a dead beat lately, I hope to check out everyone's blogs soon.

City of Fountains

2009-03-10T20:11:00.008-05:00

It was 80 degrees one day last week, so Bailey and I went downtown and took some pictures at the fountains at Crown Center. It was so nice and I have been craving the sun ever since. We also took a blanket out on the grass and read books. It was a mean spring teaser, it's too bad it's back to freezing cold. My white legs don't have a chance.

Bailey is now a pro at sitting up and rarely falls over. When she was first learning, she would lean over to reach something and go into the splits. It looks painful, but she seemed content to stay like this.

And here are a few pictures of my cutie that I don't think I have posted yet. PS-I am not a bad mother and don't put her in front of a movie a lot, but sometimes you just have to in order to get dinner done! :) Horton Hears a Who does the trick.

Updo

2009-03-04T11:34:00.003-06:00

When I found out we were having a girl, I immediately thought about frilly dresses, cute bows, pink, jewelry, and makeup and all the fun that comes along with little girls. You can imagine my excitement yesterday when I finally got to give Bailey her first pony tail. Such a big day for a new mom. :) She'll be going to prom before I know it... (only if her dad will ever let her date-and it's not looking good).

Bachelor

2009-03-03T12:17:00.005-06:00

I don't usually admit that I watch reality shows, but I can't pry myself away from the Bachelor. Was anyone else glued to their tv for 3 hours clenching their fists and sweating with butterflies like I was? Please say someone else did......I am dying to know what other people think of Jason after last night. I couldn't decide if I thought he was a jerk, or if he was a nice guy in a hard situation. I was pulling for Melissa, but could obviously tell that he had a big thing for Molly. At first I was mad at him and thought he was such a jerk to Melissa and even if he still loved Molly, I thought he should have waited and dumped Melissa off camera after everything was over. I thought it was rude to dump her on tv in front of everyone. But then I was thinking about it and he was in a tough situation and he seems like a pretty straight forward, say what he's thinking kindof guy. (Although he seems like a pretty sensitive guy for as much crying as he did). Anyway, I am interested in what other people thought. Oh, and Deanna is weird. (Or Deanda as Ryan calls her). She is constantly blinking, and I thought it was weird that they brought her back...added drama I guess. Another season down the drain. Some of the people on these shows are my same age and I'm happy I'm married and living the life I have. I love my Ry and Bailey and wouldn't trade anything EVER! Sometimes watching these shows make me appreciate how lucky I am.

7 Random Facts

2009-03-01T21:38:00.003-06:00

I was tagged and have to post 7 random facts...

1. It makes me happy when all socks come out with mates when I do laundry.
2. I like my fruit cold.
3. I have a ridiculously hard time making decisions.
4. I clogged when I was little.
5. I like punk music.
6. I grind my teeth in my sleep.
7. Bones make me queazy.

I like hearing odd things about people that you don't normally hear. So I tag anyone who will share. (Be sure to leave a comment if you do.)

New found Mobility...

2009-02-20T23:58:00.004-06:00

My dimished blogging time is a result of Bailey's newfound mobility in her walker (I'm sorry for not commenting on everyone's blogs). I have had to childproof the house since she discovered that she can scoot around almost the entire floor. She spends a lot of time time stuyding chair spindles, high chair straps, barstool legs, hanging kitchen towels, and her reflection in the dishwasher. I wish I had a camera with video because she can really pick up speed when she goes to the side. She leans and does quick pushes with one foot and can get somewhere pretty quickly. When she hears the fridge door open, she tries her hardest to get there before I shut the door. They can be so smart! And it's funny how anything little ones do is cute. I find myself watching her and thinking, "Aaahhh, she's playing with the blinds, how cute." Or, "She has learned to spit, she is so smart." What I wouldn't give to know what she is thinking. If it seems like I spend my time following her around with a camera........I do. :)

Best Time Ever

2009-02-20T23:02:00.005-06:00

We had the best time ever when Nicky and Gracy came out to visit. It was so fun to have someone to go shopping with and to have the girls together. We made bows, went on walks, watched movies, ate desserts, took pictures, made cards, shopped, and shopped some more. It's funny how simple things like giving your daughters a bath together makes you happy. :) Gracy has as much hair as a 2 year old, so we were constantly pulling her pigtails out of Bailey's grip. Eleven days just wasn't enough!

I totally fell off the bandwagon. I mentioned in a previous post that I have a major pop addiction, and I totally fueled the fire. I think we drank a 24 pack, and 2 12 packs while she was here. What would we do without sisters??? (And of course my favorite brother!) I absolutely love how my family is so alike and we get along so well. No one can take the place of family. I miss them SO much! It's so hard living so far away. I MISS YOU!!!!!!!

I think I took about 600 pictures when they were here, it's so hard to post just a few. Gracy is so photogenic. Not only is she so adorable, but she will smile a huge grin if you just look at her. It takes a lot of work to get a smile out of Bailey.

Nicky brought me out the best invention ever, and it is definitely worthy of sharing. I don't know what they are called, but it is a foot file. Not just a regular foot file, it's amazing. I have used the files before, but this one takes the cake. I received a pedicure for my birthday and this thing was 50 times better than the pedicure. It took all of my calouses off in minutes. Warning: it is possible to file too much. We found out the hard way and limped a little the next day. And it does hold the "filings" in a little compartment that you have to empty...a little gross but rewarding. My feet haven't felt so good in years and I would definitely recommend this little gem to get rid of any snagging or crusty feet. Warm sandal weather is not coming soon enough!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY RYAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2009-01-29T10:45:00.004-06:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DAD!!!!!!
I hope you have a happy birthday today! I miss you and love you and can't wait to play with you tonight! Love you, Bailey

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Happy Birthday Ry! It doesn't seem like you are 29! It seems like we are just young spring chickens like we were 7 years ago. But looking back at all we've done and been through in the last 7 years, I love where we are. It seems like so long ago that we went to class together, got married, and were in our apartment. I am so lucky to have such an awesome husband who works so hard to provide for our family, helps out around the house, makes me laugh, and makes a conscious effort to be "sensitive to my emotions." I really really really do appreciate everything you do, even if I don't tell you enough. And you're such a great dad. Bailey lights up when you come home from work and I love watching you with her. I couldn't have asked for a better husband and father, you're all I ever wanted! When girls are little, they imagine what it's like when they're married and a mom with babies and this is what I imagined. I don't tell you enough that you're awesome and I love you I love you I love you!

Two posts in one month!

2009-01-24T14:34:00.006-06:00

Bailey has been sick this week and that makes me feel entitled to leaving my house dirty and holding her all day, which gives me time and extra pictures to blog. We found out Tuesday that she has RSV. It's some nasty stuff. She has to do breathing treatments on a nebulizer, but she is already feeling better. Is it wrong that I think the little fish mask she wears is cute? She is used to it now, and even sings into it when I put it on her now. Ryan has been so good about taking her into our shower to steam her lungs. I actually have a very cute picture of them in the shower (It's G-rated, with swimsuit and diaper). But Ryan made me promise when I took it that it wouldn't be blogged. Last night though, he took her diaper off to air out her diaper rash and she sneezed and pooped all over him, fun to watch! There are a lot of learning experiences with first babies, I feel like I had a quick crash course in nursing 101. But I really have enjoyed having a slow paced week and spending most of it just holding her. (She's not going to expect that once she feels better, RIGHT?!?!)

We also had a HUGE life changing event this week.....Bailey drank formula from a bottle! I thought the day would never come. It was either that or go to bed hungry for her a few nights ago. She was so fussy and tired and not feeling well and I tried to nurse her to go to sleep and she did a shark death bite on me. Did I mention she has 2 teeth? Anyway, not to get too personal, but she did end up drinking from a bottle. She has not drank from one since she was like 2 months old and has refused to even suck on one since. I have been wanting to ween her and wasn't sure since she wasn't on the bottle, but nothing like necessity as a little motivation! Here are the little bad boys:

Anyone know how to kick a nasty pop habit????? I am thoroughly addicted and may need to start a 12 step program. I could literally drink 5 cans a day and be happy. It's not the caffeine I want, it's the sugar. I crave it all the time. I also crave sweets like there's no tomorrow. Is it normal to just want pop and chocolate ALL day? I tried not buying pop to start to ween myself, and I wanted it more because I knew I didn't have any. I am starting to empathize with alcoholics and drug addicts. I started buying it again because I thought, it makes me happy. Drugs make people happy too. I couldn't drink it when I was pregnant because it tasted like chemicals to me, maybe that is my answer. But that seems like a lot of work! :) I'm going to go finish my vanilla coke now...

We're still here...

2009-01-14T16:58:00.003-06:00

I have not blogged in a long time, but it makes me feel better that some of my friends haven't either...I've checked. :) I promised my family I would post pictures from Christmas, so here they are, there's a ton. :) Also, here's a small update on Bailey. She has 2 teeth and is rolling over. She is almost 21 pounds at 6 1/2 months. Her Pediatrician uses the term "thriving." We call her squishy. She talks jibberish all the time and says "buh buh buh." She has started baby food and it is extremely entertaining to watch her. She is a really good natured baby and very mellow. I love spending everyday with her, I feel really lucky.

We drove to Utah for Christmas and she did extremely well being in the car that long. My parents got us a portable dvd player for the car for Christmas, so the drive home was even better (thank you Baby Einstein!) Christmas was a blast, it was so fun to spend time with my family in Utah and to have Bailey and her cousin Gracy together. They are 3 days apart and total opposites. Most of the pictures I took are of them together. It was so fun to watch them interact and be so interested in each other. Bailey seemed to always rest her hand on Gracy's shoulder or they were always touching each others faces.

Not much new with Ryan and I. Ryan caught a nasty virus and was sick for about week, but is finally feeling better. Luckily, Bailey and I didn't get it. For those of you who really know Ryan, you know how competitive he is. I like to use opportunities like this to bring to his attention how weak he is, and how right I am when I tell him to take vitamins and get flu shots. :) Love you Ry!!!!! I was just happy to spend time with my family in Utah. I miss them SO much. We got to do lots of fun things in Utah like four wheeling, pigging out, I went to my brother's guitar concert, and getting my nose waxed. Yep, it sounds gross and it kindof is, but I had to try it. My sister works at Merle Norman cosmetics, so I get all the perks of free samples, and trying things like that. Warning....don't read if you're grossed out. So she took a large popsicle stick and dipped it in the wax and kindof stuck it in my nose and let the wax harden. So I'm sitting there with these sticks popping out of my nose and then she just rips them out. Voila, no more nose hair. Yeah, it hurt. Not like the eye-watering you would think, it didn't sting. But it hurts worse than getting my mustache waxed. And that's about it with the Grady household. It's funny once you have a baby that they take up all of your time and when I blog or people ask me what's new, I feel like I don't have anything to say. But all is well and things are great at the Grady household. Just enjoying being entertained by our little girl.

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-10T15:00:00.007-06:00

I am cheating this year and sending online Christmas cards. Maybe next year I will finally send out real ones. I haven't been doing well at blogging lately, so a quick update on our family:

Ryan is doing well and working hard at his job. He is an awesome dad, Bailey loves it when he gets home from work. He keeps busy with work and church, but in his spare time he likes to keep active with sports. He is also good at making funny sounds and jumping up and down and doing whatever he can to get a smile or giggle from Bailey.

I am loving being a mom. I am lucky enough to stay home with Bailey and am loving it. She keeps me pretty busy, and in my spare time I love doing crafts and and learning about photography. I LOVE shopping for little girl clothes and dressing up Bailey in "froo froo" as Ryan calls it. I am loving Kansas City, but miss Utah and my family. Lucky for me, my family comes out often to visit and we have Ryan's family close.

Bailey is healthy and happy. She is almost 6 months and doing great. She is growing like a weed and wears mostly 12 month clothes now, we love our big girl! She is smiling and laughing now, which is the best thing in the world as a parent! It's funny how one small giggle can make your day. She loves rice cereal and baby Einstein videos. She will be sitting up and rolling over soon. We love spending time at home as a family and am looking forward to Bailey's first Christmas.

I am not the best at keeping in touch with everyone, but want to wish all of our friends and family a happy holiday. We especially love this time of year and remembering the birth of our Savior. We wish everyone a Merry Christmas!

Ryan, Tiffany, & Bailey

Routan Baby Maker 3000

2008-11-06T11:02:00.002-06:00

Apparently this is what our baby boy would look like, I did an online picture baby maker and this is the result. Isn't he handsome? I am not sure where those ears or that chin came from... I would love to see your babies! http://www.vw.com/vwhype/babymaker/en/us/?pageID=29558318&adID=208759235

For Ryan...

2008-10-30T09:58:00.008-05:00

I was going to update my blog a week or so ago, of course with pictures of Bailey, and Ryan said, "Another post with pictures of Bailey? That's all you post!" So I didn't post them. Newsflash, that's all my life is right now! That's all I have to post. She's all I take pictures of and that's all I have. :) I was talking about the purpose of blogs last night with a friend and some people use blogs to vent about their bad day, to document what they do daily, post recipes, etc. The purpose of my blog is to update others on the big things in my life. All of my family live 2 states away and enjoy seeing updates on Bailey, and I enjoy posting them. I could do better at adding more personal thoughts though. My friend I spoke with last night about blogs has inspired me to do better journal writing, so hopefully I can incorporate that into my blog as well. Here goes:

She is now doing really well at reaching and grabbing toys, sucking her thumb and fingers, talking and mumbling, and looking cute. And she laughed out loud the first time this week. I discovered she is a huge fan of Baby Einstein videos. She also tries to sing when I sing to her, it's so cute. She will jibber jabber quite loudly when I sing to her, I love it. Her foot is doing great, we go in tomorrow for a checkup. She is down to wearing her braces for only 12 hours at night, it's so nice to not have them on during the day. She has always had a decent mullet in the back, but she now rubbed a bald spot right above her mullet, so it is starting to look like a grandpa ring in the back. Still so cute! :) This one is making me nervous....she has started to become vocal about what she wants and doesn't want. I am not sure if this is an early sign of temper tantrums, but she can be very clear if she doesn't like something. Hopefully this doesn't get a lot worse! We went to our ward's trunk or treat this week and had fun dressing her up as a ballerina. She loved being around all the people and noises, she kicked her legs the whole 2 hours. I think she tired herself out because she immediately zonked out in the car on the way home.

I have started learning how to edit photos online. I am just learning on my own, although I hope to take a photography class soon. I don't know much about cameras, but you have to have a camera to take the class. So if anyone has a suggestion on what camera to get, I would love some advice. (Although this is a hobby, and I'm not looking to spend $1000). I want something nice enough to take really good pictures, but I don't really need the best there is.

I have come to the realization that I am old. Let me explain...Until recently, I have felt pretty young. Even though I'm married and have a baby, I don't feel like I am an old mom or anything. And I didn't feel like I was one of the young girls in our ward, but felt younger than others in the ward. (Not anyone specifically......) The young women in our ward referred to me as "Sister Grady" recently and that made me stop and think. And my recent birthday hit me, I am 10 years older than these girls! I am old Sister Grady! I am coming to terms with my age. I am getting close to the big 3-0 and think I will probably have some sort of age crisis on that birthday. But I am accepting the fact that I am Sister Grady to the "young" girls. And finally, I do have some pictures to post that aren't of Bailey. For my birthday, Ryan took me to Skies restaurant. It's on top of the Hyatt Regency Hotel and is round, windows all around, and rotates slowly around so you can see the whole city. I have wanted to go since my birthday last year (don't ask!) and you can imagine my excitement that we were going and I was so excited to take pictures. I almost cried when my batteries died in my camera. I got 2 pictures, and here are a few from online too. The food was amazing! It was so fun to go somewhere romantic and leave Bailey with a baybsitter. Thanks for the fun birthday Ryan!