Three Little T's

The past few months... cousin fun

2011-06-21T21:51:00.000-05:00

Claribel is growing up so fast and we are having such a blast! Her vocabulary is exploding and she is trying to say everything. She now sings with me at night and has been practicing her ABC's and counting to 10. What a joy she is to Ray and I... we are so blessed.

We also had the pleasure of cousing visits in May. At the first of the month, Rebecca, Tucker T, and Lizette came to visit- it was pretty funny because the day they got in town my parent's left about 15 mins after they got here because Allison was going into labor in Abilene. We had a really nice visit and were definitely spolied by all of the one-on-one time with them! It was so great to enjoy Lizette and Claribel interacting and I know it will be more and more fun as they get older.

first bath time together- so fun!

Then, at the end of the month we were able to meet the BOY in the family- Aiden Clifton! We had such a nice visit with them and I was able to get some good infant snuggle time with that sweet almost 3 week old.

Claribel enjoyed reading a book with her lion in Abilene

and of course getting to meet Aiden. She was really sweet with him which made me so excited about seeing her with our new little one coming in October

What a sweet little thing! I hate living so far away...

rips at my heart strings with all of these rapidly growing babies!

Claribel is gonna have a baby

2011-05-23T13:47:00.000-05:00

SISTER!!! We are so excited to have a second little girl and know that Claribel will love having a sister as much I have! So blessed...

Family Pics

2011-05-03T13:20:00.000-05:00

The day before celebrating our Savior conquering death we had the pleasure of taking some family photos with Shannon in downtown Bryan. I can't wait to get some of them printed out... I have not printed or framed any pictures since Claribel has been born (and that is NOT because of a lack of ones to print)! Ridiculous!

This was one of the last shots which was only possible because of smarties candy... and you can totally tell she is savoring every sugar crystal...

Guess who's gonna be a big sister?

2011-03-06T20:42:00.000-06:00

Claribel is!
We are so excited to be welcoming a new little T in October! Praise the Lord for that beautiful little flickering heartbeat we were able to see last Thursday. So happy for a new bebe!

Love is in the air

2011-02-10T22:17:00.001-06:00

This year, I really wanted to decorate for Valentine's Day. Somewhere on the www I found some links for valentine's day banners and it got my creative juices going. So I gathered all of my pink and red fabrics and went to town. This was a nice quick project after all of the baby goodies (and a nice way to use some fabrics I already had).

LOVE Martha Stewart glitter... although it is a mess (so fine!) Karen- I have some in the mail for you- and i didn't shake off the loose glitter first (haha just kidding, or am I?)

I also got these great tinsel hearts at King Dollar that I am hanging in all of our windows with valentiney ribbon... love them... finally, I made some crayon hearts which resulted in a blister on my finger (using a pocket knife on the crayons to get shavings). They look really cute, but I have to get a picture in daylight because they look so much better than at night.

Some Dailies from January and Early February

2011-02-07T08:00:00.002-06:00

LOVE you daddy!

YES! I can cross my fingers!

Curly head

Bath time is the BEST!

Frannie- where is your bellybutton?

does this hurt?

Yikes!!

Love you too Frannie!

Banana- can't believe my mama doesn't like them!

Gifts for Aiden and his Mama...

2011-02-06T21:58:00.001-06:00

From Aunt Melissa and Aunt Rebecca...

"Pleated Beauty Bag" from Amy Karol (Angry Chicken's) Sewing book "Bend the Rules Sewing". Loved how it turned out and can't wait to make one for me! LOVE this Michael Miller Fabric line- if we ever have a baby boy...

little taggie blanket with navy satin on one side and yellow minky on the other

burp cloths (i loved buying some boy fabric finally :) )

baby log to keep track of those first few months (modeled after the Secrets of the Baby Whisperer- FAVE baby book!)

clips to hook blankets to the carseat, stroller, etc and a band to put around a few diapers and wipes case to fit in diaper bag

nursing cover with a terry cloth corner and pocket for nursing pads on the inside

hooded towel

infant carseat carrier tent (FIRST PROJECT sewn by Rebecca on her new Christmas machine- She did an amazing job)

We also gave Allison some milk diapers nursing pads. For all you nursing or soon to be nursing mama's out there- these are amazing for oh so many reasons!

Baby Shower Post No. 2- The fun!

2011-02-06T21:27:00.000-06:00

More Shower pics of people and fun!

There were of course several baseball touches which Andrew (the daddy who played baseball at A&M) LOVES!

Baldwin Family attendees

Becca (sister-in-law) and Allie-cat

The hostesses (L-R: Monie, Melissa, Melody, Donna)

Proud Papa to be...

Sweet Baby Aiden- we can't wait to meet you!

My Baby Sister's Baby Shower

2011-02-06T21:03:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was my sister Allison's Baby Shower. We are so excited that she is having a BOY (WTG Andrew!). He will be 11 months younger than Rebecca's Lizette who is 11 months younger than Claribel... so fun! I wanted to share some photos of all of the details first (just for you Rebs). FYI... I was not a hostess and can not take any credit for the beautiful shower that it was. The flowers are by Last Petal who also did my wedding and Rebecca's baby shower flowers. Melanie is so talented!

lovely, just lovely... Wonderful job- Monie, Melody, Melissa and Donna

Christmas Kitchen

2011-01-01T19:56:00.000-06:00

Ray and I decided to do a DIY Play Kitchen for Claribel this year for Christmas. It was such a fun project, Claribel LOVES it and we love how it turned out (which is important since it resides in our dining room/ living room :) )

We started with a nighstand with a layout mirrored from the one below (this is the other half of the match set that mom bought at a garage sale). I forgot to take a picture of ours before Ray took it apart to sand it.

We went to Home Depot and found some cute trims, hardware, and knobs. Ray built the entire back, trimmed it out to be so cute, and sanded and painted it while I worked on the painted knobs, burners, salt and pepper shakers and recipe box. I also made fabric trimmed dishtowels, oven mits, apron, and chefs hat. I also used the fabric to add a little to a basket from Pier 1 that fits on the shelf perfectly.

We painted it a pistachio green-blue color. It is hard to tell the color on the pics...

We did a chalkboard on one side and will add chalk later when we know she won't just draw on the wall. I love that this is something that she will grow into and be able to use in different ways for years to come.

Ikea was the sweet spot for lots of accessories: they had the awesome stainless pots and pans, cooking utensils, soft fruit basket set, soft vegetable basket set, breakfast food set, and baking set with a baking pan that fits on the shelf Ray added to the inside of the cabinet perfectly.

We got a chef set and dishes from Green Toys. Below are the salt and pepper shakers (wooden spools with a disk on bottom and rounded top with seed beads inside), and recipe box with laminated "recipe cards", food pictures from a baby einstein first foods book and some that I sketched on index cards. One of her favorite things is to take recipe cards out of my recipe box, so I thought she needed her own. So far it has not disappointed, she LoVeS it! This picture also shows off some of the trim that my talented husband added to the shelves.

Christmas morning enjoying the recipe box.

She is a cooking machine!

At one point, her chefs hat had dropped over her eyes and I took it off, thinking it was bothering her. Claribel touched her head and looked at me like "where did it go?" So I put it back on her and she smiled and chuckled, so funny. It is so nice that she is enjoying it, since we worked so hard on all the details!

The past few weeks...

2010-11-02T20:20:00.001-05:00

Rebecca and Lizette came to visit two weeks ago and it was so nice to visit with her and hold my sweetie-pie niece. We took some pumpking pictures of the cousins and a few turned out pretty cute.

I took the pumpkin outside in our backyard and tried to get some shots. That little miss thing sure can have selective hearing. She just played and walked around and didn't seem to hear me asking her to "look at mama and smile!" Well, good thing she has cute "working" facial expressions while she is busy as well.

more "I can't hear you mama" pics below

collecting leaves and acorns

So, we have been having SO MUCH FUN with our happy, spunky, walking little 15 month old that has been cracking us up on a daily basis. She has really started picking up more sign language and saying a few things that we can understand... but only when she wants to (she is not a big performer, and she tends to not "hear us" sometimes :) ).

She sorts everything, is a really good eater (most times),

loves her milk (but only in a certain cup) and brings us so much JOY. She has been going to "school" 4 days a week from 9-1:30 and loves it. She gets really excited when we start walking up to her school and she just goes and goes while she is there (no morning nap- but she is so tired in the afternoon when we pick her up). She loves to read books and some of her faves right now are "the Very Hungry Caterpillar", "What do you Say?", Brown Bear Brown Bear what do you see?", "Pat the Bunny", The touch and feel books ("That's not my lion" and "That's Not my dolly"). She also loves bath time and brushing her teeth. She is definitely absorbing everything like a little sponge and can locate her nose, eyes, belly button, ears, and teeth. She can tell us what a duck and cow says, but only when she wants to and she is usually better about doing it for Ray. It is really fun that Ray works from home and Claribel can go visit him during the day when she is here (she LOVES his calculator of all things).

We LOVE LOVE LOVE our sweet almost 15 month old and wouldn't change a thing about our life right now!

Trick or Treat!

2010-11-02T19:58:00.000-05:00

Our little Flower

Looking at the doggies outside

She didn't mind the costume and just played and explored like normal

even flowers need a snack break... yummy!

Ready for dinner

Monie had such beautiful pumpkin arrangements on her porch

What I've been up to...

2010-10-30T16:34:00.001-05:00

FELT! I have been busy busy cutting sewing and stuffing felt to make a felt card table playhouse for my favorite fifteen month old. Claribel played with it for a few minutes before nap time and I know she will have tons of fun in there... So, here we go... picture time!

Front Door(flap that lifts up) with an open close sign and mailbox that opens and has a pocket on the inside for mail to drop into

Ice Cream Shop- I still have novelties to finish that will stick to the velcro (banana split, ice cream sundae, ice cream cones, ice cream sandwiches, and popsicles) There is also velcro on the table on either side of the flower for the ice cream to stick to.

Mail Center- I am working on making letters (I have two each of the colors on the black pockets for sorting). The brown package on the table is a peek-a-boo flap and under the table is a "doggie door" with a large mail pouch for unsorted mail. I have a sorter that will be really excited once I am done with the mail.

The Garden- there are two corn in a husk that fit into pockets on the corn stalk (one is shown), 4 pockets in the "soil" for some beets, carrots, and maybe some onions that she can pick, strawberry bush with removable (velcro) flowers and strawberries, the other half of the tree that wraps around by the front door with two little red birdies that can come out of the nest. I was going to add some fruit to the tree, but kind of forgot about that... I guess I could add it by hand later.

Inside of the house (view from the front door): fireplace, clear frame for a 5x7 photo, vase with flower, curtain over the window at the ice cream shop, table with tablecloth and goldfish bowl with removable stuffed goldfish. The goldfish bowl ended up being one of my favorite things :)

Three pockets for whatever she wants to put in there and curtains for the window on the garden side

I definitely DID NOT come up with this idea on my own... I really liked the house I found at http://homemadebyjill.blogspot.com/search/label/felt%20playhouse (for Christmas, Ray and I are going to make a DIY play kitchen- also a project on her blog)

I also got inspiration and ideas from MissPrettyPretty's shop on Etsy

New Mexico

2010-08-25T22:38:00.000-05:00

After we left RMNP on Wednesday am, we dropped off the rental car at the airport and made the long trek in the RV down to the Lavin's Cabin in the mountains in NM. I don't think there could have been a better last minute family vacation. We were able to spend 3 nights hanging out and it was great! Not to mention, of course, Ray, Claribel and I were able to finally kiss that little Lizette's head! What a sweet, adorable little darling they have. It is so hard to live so far away... Hopefully one day we will live closer together again...

Ray, Tucker and Dad went fly-fishing one day and the rest we just hung out and enjoyed the wonderful mountain air on the awesome porch!

Rebecca said she was pretty sure Lizette had smiled at her,

all I have to say is that she smiled at her Aunt Melissa!

Claribel enjoyed wearing some warmer clothes and exploring a new place...

and of course meeting her new cousin!

Although she wasn't quite sure about her mama holding another baby at first :)

Auntie Allison also squeezed in some snuggle time- good thing Lizette loves to be held...

Finally, the first of many Petty cousin photo shoots... very fun!

The visit went by really fast, and it was hard to kiss that sweet L's head and breathe in that new baby smell one last time before we see them at Thanksgiving. WAY TOO LONG in baby time!

Rocky Mountain National Park

2010-08-25T22:08:00.000-05:00

All of the Pettys and Don and Monie were supposed to go to Destin, but with the unknown of the oil spill, that trip was delayed until next year. Ray and I desperately needed a break from work and Texas heat so we headed to the Rockies! We flew into Denver and rented a car to drive to Estes Park where we stayed in a pretty rustic cabin just outside of Rocky Mountain National Park. My mom and dad bought an RV this summer and were staying at a campground in the park. Sleeping was a bit of a challenge in our one room cabin, but we adjusted ok and Claribel was a champ as always!

We had a great first vacation as a family of 3.

We went on a nice one walk one evening before we headed back to our cabin. It was a rough ride for the Bob, but Claribel didn't seem to mind and took a nice little nap.

Ray was able to practice his fly-fishing skills with dad

our last afternoon we drove the long way out of the park to the north entry and took pictures at each pull off spot as Claribel napped in the back seat. BEAUTIFUL... what a mighty Creator we have!

Double Happy!

2010-07-28T00:00:00.001-05:00

Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday to you!
Happy Birthday dear Aunt Rachael and Popsi!
Happy Birthday to you!

We hope you both have FABULOUS days!
lovelove,
Ray, Melissa, and Claribel

Happy First Birthday Claribel!

2010-07-12T21:20:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday Monie!

2010-06-24T08:39:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to one of my favorite people!

I am looking all over to find you and give you a hug and kiss!

Where are you? I miss you! Hope you have a bright sun-shiny day!

Happy BD and DD!

2010-06-18T11:45:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to you!

Happy Birthday dear Allison,

Happy Birthday to you!

We hope you have a great day and good trip!

ALSO...
Happy due date to Rebecca! We hope to meet that little Lizette VERY SOON!!!

We love you both very much!

Rebecca's Baby Shower

2010-06-14T19:32:00.000-05:00

Well, it is about time for that little Lavin baby to arrive and I thought I would share some pics from Rebecca's baby shower (a few months late). Sorry about the mixup getting the pics to you Rebecca, I should have done this a long time ago!

Playing with Picasa...

2010-06-01T23:39:00.001-05:00

Finally took a little bit of time to play with Picasa a bit- you are right, Kelli, pretty easy. I still have lots to learn, but this collage tool is definitely the way to post more than one pic!

Pool Day

2010-06-01T23:12:00.001-05:00

We tried to take our first trip to the pool this past Sunday... we got all swim diapered, coconut sunscreened, blue hatted, and swim-suited up. We made it almost to the pool and heard thunder and the lifeguard whistle... So we went again yesterday and and had a great time!

Hands Pattering

2010-05-19T12:48:00.004-05:00

Claribel is crawling really well these days. You can hear her hands pattering down the hall. This is the warning I get when I'm in my office and Lil'Bel is coming to chew on my papers. Interestingly enough, one of the things she likes the most in here are the spec books for my projects (probably one of the only people in the world who wants to look at one).

Tearing up Laughs!

2010-04-20T20:10:00.003-05:00

for some reason, cbel thought this paper tearing was the funniest thing! candice and melissa really had her going. our favorite is when she throws her head back.

That's My Girl!

2010-04-20T11:54:00.006-05:00

cbel has already shown us that she has a sense of rhythm by tapping to music once or twice, but this is the best! i'm not very creative when i need her attention, so i do what any drum enthusiast would do and start tapping. can you guess what she did?

For the Aunties (part II)...

2010-03-05T17:17:00.011-06:00

This isn't a deep laugh, but a small one. It's very hard to catch her laughing at all because she's always distracted by the camera.

She was acting really funny on the floor in my office until I turned the camera on (of course). I did catch a little glimpse of it...then she rolls over when she heard Melissa came home.

We hope you're feeling better Auntie Allison!

hb rebs

2010-03-04T09:24:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday to you

Happy Birthday to you
Happy Birthday dear Rebecca

Happy Birthday to you!

We hope you have a fabulous day! Welcome to the 30 club!

Carseat Help!

2010-02-07T21:18:00.001-06:00

Hollah Hollah! I need some advice... We really need to go ahead and get Claribel a convertible car seat and am wondering what you have and what you like about it! So, give me a shout out and let me know. We have a 4Runner so space isn't a huge issue, but it ain't yo mamma's cadillac either :) I want one that she will be able to be in until she is ready for a booster. Ok... let me know and talk amongst yourselves. Thanks!

the assignment

2010-01-31T17:38:00.004-06:00

I guess I should go ahead and do this while I seem to have a few minutes...
Fave high school memories:
Road trips to the football games. Sometimes we had a few stragglers, but for the most part it was Kelli, Meredith Hare, Alissa, and myself. We felt so grown up getting to drive to faraway places, like Conroe (ha). We had our cd's with specific songs that we always played and sang out hearts out to, such as Mariah Carey's "Always Be My Baby", and TLC's "Waterfalls".
Pep-Rallies on Friday afternoons were also lots of fun, especially when we were seniors with our overalls and the little spirit dance... fun times!
Annual TP job at Coach Wade's. In 8th grade, our history (i think) teacher was Coach Wade. Christina, Laurel, and I started an annual (i think it was at the end of the year) tradition of wrapping his house. We did this with the help of Dara (if i remember correctly) the following years until we went to college. I remember getting caught at least once in high school and having to clean it up as well as returning a parking sign at a business once it was already light outside. I am sure he was glad he taught us in 8th grade... obviously he made some kind of an impression...
Putting BHS up for sale. In the spring of senior year, me, alissa, Kelli, Meredith, Doug (if i remember right- i am probably forgetting some or misnaming some) decided to do a little senior prank. We went around town and collected for sale signs and even got a bit tarp style "clearance sale" sign from a mobile home sales place and put them all over the campus. We also made up flyers from a copied for sale by owner sign that had a cost of $97 (class of 1997). We put the clearance sale sign under the big marqui sign by the stadium. Unfortunately, the next morning was an early mowing day for maintenance and it was all cleaned up by the time we got to school, but they missed the clearance sale sign. The next day, I remember the vice principals were nosing around trying to figure out who did it. I really wanted to hand the principal one of the flyers before we walked across the stage for graduation, but was a chicken... I wish I would have.

Favorite teachers:
Ms. Mueller (Calculus AP) definitely stands out as one of my more respected and best teachers. That class really helped me in college in Engineering Cal 2.
Ms. Pennebaker (senior English AP) was also one that stands out and I give her the credit for not having to take English at TAMU, which was huge for me!
Ms. Richards (Biology AP) was definately also a favorite as she was of everyone who had her I am sure. She was also our senior class sponsor.

Well, my Bitty is up from her nap, so I better go take care of that-

This was fun taking a stroll down memory lane- can't wait to see what the others write!

word for 2010

2010-01-29T21:43:00.023-06:00

I really loved this word of the year idea from Lacy and have been thinking about what I wanted my word to be. This turned into resolutions of sorts and then I read a blog entry of a friend from college which sealed the deal. My word of the year is care. Caring for me... taking care of all the things that I have been ignoring and setting aside as I focus on the needs, schedules, etc. of others. I need to make some big changes in my life as far as my health is concerned... things I have been saying I was going to and truly wanting to do, but not doing. I am going to do it this year, even though now I have a baby that is just one more person that I can focus on instead of myself, I must do this now. Learn to care for myself now. Not in months or years, but now.

cloth diapering

2010-01-28T22:16:00.001-06:00

This is mostly for my sister, who is interested in cloth diapering her little one coming in June... but I have wanted to blog about this and just show what I do and what I have so that non- cloth diaperers can see that these aren't our mama's cloth diapers. It really is nice and easy!

Here are the diapers I have (bumGenius 3.0 One Size). We have pretty much all white ones, which I love because you can't see them through clothes and they look nice under dresses:

*** added January 31***

I also have some Happy Heiney fitted diapers, but those never worked as good, we had lots of leaks (the lining likes to peek out from the cover) and didn't end up using them much at all. I also bought two of the Fuzzi Bunz One Size Diapers which I like for the snaps instead of velcro, BUT they were not on sale when I needed to purchase more, cost more than the bumGenius, and they are harder to stuff with the inserts. However, if these were the ones I had from the beginning I would love them as well- they are just different and take getting used to. I also have some Hemp prefolds, snappis and some Happy Heiney covers that are definitely the economical way to go, BUT I never felt like the prefolds kept her as dry and had as much absorption. So, they are mostly used as backups if we are behind on laundry. Also, that option is not as "daddy friendly".

*********************

I use this sprayer that hooks up to the toilet to spray off the dirty diapers into the toilet... works SOSOSO good!

I have a spray bottle of water at her changing table and these cloth wipes that I just spray down and then wipe her. These go in the diaper pail as well as the diapers. They are the bumGenius Bamboo wipes. We also have some we use as wash rags for the bath and they are perfect for that as well.

I have this diaper pail and it has just enough capacity that you are pretty much needing to wash diapers when it is full (we got ours from Babies R Us)

I have two of these pail liners (Wahmies pail liners) that you pull out of the pail and dump it and the diapers into the washing machine.

I use this laundry detergent for all of our laundry now.

I line dry the diapers, not the inserts and cut out some liners out of anti pill fleece that I just lay inside the diaper that keeps diaper cream from getting on the diaper when we have to use some and sometimes makes cleanups a bit easier.

*** Added on January 31***

If you live in BCS, Cloud 9 Baby is a lovely store that carries the majority of the diapers and other products that I use and others. The owner is VERY helpful and will spend as much time as you need explaining the different diapering systems. ALSO, if you find diapers on sale, say at Cotton Babies, she will have them on for the same sale price in her store!

************************

Six (and a half) months...

2010-01-28T21:31:00.003-06:00

Sweet sweet baby Claribel,

I say this every month, but you are growing SO fast and getting SO big! We are loving every new stage, but just slow it down a little, ok?

Daily happenings with the our smiley 6 month old:

Practicing sitting up- it is crazy what 2 weeks will do once we started having you work on it

Giggling at nothing at all- you crack up in your carseat and while staring at the seat fabric of your exersaucer

LOVElovelove puppy dogs- one of your best giggle times was when Frannie and Tilly were chasing each other, playing and barking around your exersaucer

Daddy has been doing this little shake with you after your bath to wiggle you and get some bath water off. "shake shake shake, shake shake shake, shake your bath off, shake your bath off". Your hair is all wet, wild and curly and it cracks us up, with your little legs wiggling back and forth

Neighborhood walks with next door neighbors Crystal and baby Deliah

Loves the pop up animal toy that Ge and Popsi got her for Christmas- it keeps your attention for a suprisingly long time

Purees, purees, purees: loves pears and apples; likes banana (with pears and/ or apples), butternut squash and sweet potatoes; loathes carrots and zuchini. Trying soon: avacado, acorn squash, peas and hopefully we will find some more veggies that you like or even love!

You love Candice and Melissa who come and play with you while Mama is at work. Melissa (3 years) can make you laugh like no other just like older siblings usually can

You are still sleeping like a champ 7pm- 7am and take your bedtime and naps pretty seriously. You love your sleep just like your mama does.

You are going to have a new baby cousin and we just found out today that Aunt Rebecca is having a ----- which will be so much fun for you (don't want to spoil them telling what they are having, but we are pretty excited)

You are becoming much more vocal about your wants and sometimes get a bit impatient, so we are already having to work on some of these things a bit

We usually hear you talking when you wake up and are greeted by the cutest gummy smile when you see us come over the crib rails. One of my favorite times of the day.

We are trying to start sign language a little bit so that you can start communicating with us as you are able and I know that will be great

Taking baths in the big tub with Mama. You seem to really enjoy this and it helps those tired moments when it is too early to go to bed, but you are starting to get ready.

I know there is more as every day is new and exciting. You are just the happiest sweetest baby I have ever known and we love you to pieces. We look forward to each new day with you.

one of my favorite things...

2010-01-28T17:53:00.006-06:00

North Carolina Kelli:
I am so glad you love to make hats
This sweet little one you sent with our Jesus Storybook Bible has gotten a LOT of uses. We have had this crazy cold (for us) winter and it is the only winter hat she has! I get compliments on this beautiful hat all the time

lovely work, my friend!

Connect and Re-connect...

2010-01-18T11:06:00.004-06:00

I wrote this on the 18th and never posted it... better than never, right?

We had our little BHS Class of '97 Blogger Gal get together at Katy's this past Saturday night... still trying to recover. Finally got in bed to sleep around 3:30 (holy moly!!!), which is a good 5 hours past when I normally start getting anxious if I am not moving towards the bed. So, clearly... lots of fun was had by eight of the ten of us (Alissa, Sara, Kristin, Danielle, Jennifer, Katy, Summer, and myself). Kelli and Lacy were definitely missed!

It was a great time of visiting with friends I spent a lot of time with in High School and ones that I didn't necessarily. It has been really fun getting to know each other as our "grown up 30 something selves" through our blogs and in person!

Favorite Baby Toys...

2010-01-06T19:05:00.003-06:00

Ray and I knew we wanted to get some toys for our Bitty for Christmas, but were so un-inspired by what we saw most places. I was actually thinking we would just get her a convertible car seat for Christmas. THEN, I found this wonderful toy line, Haba and shopping becames so fun and we just dreamed about what we could buy her in the years to come... toys that will last for several children and aren't all so plastic-y. Take a look at what we found- the attention to detail is fabulous and she really loves the clutch toys. A few (the last two) are for her to grow into, and she should be able to use them for years to come. Lovelovelove them!

Baby food making

2010-01-06T17:43:00.004-06:00

We have entered the magical world of solids! Claribel is loving all the new tastes after she got over the shock of something different than milk. I am really glad we got a video of those first tastes because it was pretty funny : ) I have been really enjoying making first tastes for Claribel and have made pears, red delicious and fuji apples, zuchini, and sweet potatoes. So far she has had rice cereal and pears and we are going to have some sweet potatoes this weekend.

d and Monie got Claribel this wonderful baby food maker for Christmas and it is fabulous. Definitely a splurge and something that is not at all necessary for homemade baby food (nothing that a pot, steam basket, and food processor won't do) but it is so well thought out and E-A-S-Y to use and clean.

Claribel at Christmas...

2010-01-05T15:29:00.010-06:00

This is my favorite Christmas moment - she has a funny reaction when the dog stops playing.

man alive...

2010-01-04T20:12:00.002-06:00

I need a vacation from Christmas and New Years! Wow... I forget how crazy the holidays are- somehow when Christmas rolls around I mentally go back to college when the vacation days were plentiful and obligations were few. I always have these "projects" I want to get done and things I want to bake, etc, etc... and then I remember- Oh yeah- no more school and I am not a teacher so two days off and back to work! So, I had all of these blog posts in mind, was going to post for sure on Christmas from Claribel Lou Who since Claribel's hair was sticking up all over, was definitely going to post pictures already of Christmas with the fams. I definitely was going to take pictures at New Years (didn't) and post about that. Nope, Nope Nope... Didn't do any of it!

We did have a wonderful Christmas and it is really nice when Christmas backs up to a weekend for time-off. It was great to see preggy Rebs and Uncle Tuck who came in from Albuquerque and everyone else. Ray and I bought a new Canon DSLR camera as our gift to each other so we have also had fun with that. Our sweet Bitty was quite flexible as usual and it was lots of fun to celebrate with her this year.

To come:
Baby food making excitement
6 months- wow- can't believe it!
Christmas pics
Claribel (and my) favorite toy line

Hopefully I will be more consistent at this blogging business in 2010!

Happy Monday to you!

2009-12-06T22:22:00.002-06:00

Claribel has had several giggle sessions so far. Thought I would share one with her and Ray the other day :) It is so hard not to smile and laugh when she does- cracks us up! You can also see our current normal- slobbery chins and bibs- she is a serious drooler-

We will miss you Maria!

2009-12-06T21:34:00.003-06:00

Maria started keeping Claribel when I went back to work- I think when Cbel was around 8 weeks. We found her because her husband teaches with my mom and she asked him if he thought she might want to watch her. We are so blessed to have had such a loving Christian woman keep our sweet baby and to have someone that loves her as well. Well, Maria is going to have a new baby of her own in January so we have found someone new to care for her starting tomorrow. It always made it much easier going to work knowing that she was taken care of so well at home by Maria. We will miss you, but will keep in touch!

and hopfully some of those spanish words will come easily to Claribel later on in life!

Meeting PW

2009-12-06T20:09:00.005-06:00

Yesterday, Monie and I made the trek to Houston to the Blue Willow Bookshop Pioneer Woman Cookbook Signing. It was quite the adventure!

I was first introduced to the Pioneer Woman blog a few years ago through another blog that I happened upon. I suppose I was reading from close to the beginning (the website was way different, only one page with everything instead of all of the tabs, etc.) I told Monie about her I guess about a year ago and told her she should read her Black Heels to Tractor Wheels story. She now keeps me up to date on the Pioneer Woman as I am not getting to read her site as often as I used to. When Monie mentioned that she was doing a book signing tour with her cookbook we knew we had to go meet her. It was funny that the bookstore owner that introduced her told a story about a PW reader that said something about "Her friend Ree" to her husband and he said, "She doesn't even know you". When you read her blog you do feel like you know her, so crazy, I guess that is what is so interesting about blogs. I have loved learning about her life, what life as a ranching family looks like. I have also loved trying out some of her recipes, some of my favorites are Oatmeal Crispies, Yogurt Cream and Berries, Crash Hot Potatoes, Potato Bundles, Apricot Bars, Blackberry Cobbler, Lasagna, Meatballs, Steak Bites, Blueberry Muffins, Apple Brown Betty, Chocolate Sheet Cake , creamy herbed potatoes, mashed potatoes , creamed spinach, not your granny's mac and cheese, I am sure there are others, but those are the ones coming to mind. She helps turn non-cooks into cooks; she has helped Monie start cooking more and the way she does her recipes on her blog (and her cookbook) is so great with all of the pictures.

So, yesterday...

We left Bryan- College Station at 7:45 and got to the bookshop right when they opened at 9:30 for the signing tickets. Then, we headed over to Georgia's Market (very cool place for all you Houstonites) where the booksigning was going to be. We got in the line to wait until the seats were set up for her to speak. Everything worked out so well, we probably had to stand in line behind about 5 people for about 30 minutes or so. Then we got seats on the end of the second row to the right of the stage. We all just hung out until PW came out around 1 pm. She sat on the little stage and they did a Q & A and then she sat to the right of the stage right in front of us to sign the books. They called different colors in a certain order and only that color group stood in line. Claribel did so well... she took a few short naps and we all just hung out. When it was finally our turn it was pretty ridiculous... I didn't even know what to say and Monie introduced us. She had also brought a bottle of wine from Messina Hof and so she gave that to her from her sister's vineyard. I have never been to a book signing before, but I thought it was pretty different that Monie was bringing her a gift... well, she was not the only one- she had several boxes of goodies from her fans... I am so glad we went, but we both laughed afterwards on the way home about how ridiculous we felt about how we behaved. I just stood there... thankfully Monie was there :) It was all so organized and we were out of there by around 4:30.

naptime waiting for PW

I wish I would have gotten CBel to smile at Ree (she is just so darn cute with that toothless smile)... oh well... She was getting to the end of her rope ready for the nice nap she took on the way home anyways.

Thanks Pioneer Woman!

It was really nice to meet you and I am excited about cooking more recipes out of your book!

and I really loved the necklace you had on- really neat!

Sleep Stories

2009-11-18T18:42:00.002-06:00

It is funny to me how many different ways we find Claribel after her naps, and in the mornings. She moves all over the place and rotates the completely opposite direction. Sometimes I wish we had one of those video monitors so we could see her in action. I am pretty sure that alot of the moving has to do with the fact that she sleeps on her stomach and gets those strong legs going and scoots all over.

We have found her several times with her arm hanging out of the crib, over the bumper like the picture below. So funny...

Below is a picture in our bed in the morning while I was getting ready for work one day. She kept pulling hte blanket up over her chin.

Ten years ago

2009-11-18T02:30:00.002-06:00

I can't believe it has been 10 years since that aweful night at TAMU. There has been a lot of talk this year on the news, in Texas Monthly, etc. which has brought all of those memories back. It has brought up interesting conversations with several of the students that work with us since I was in school when it happened. I think it is hard for anyone to tyuly understand what it was like unless you were a student at that time. Even though I did not personally know anyone that passed away, it was a devastating tragedy to have happen my junior year. There is so much talk of people wanting to bring bonfire back to campus, but in my opinion (and probably in many more that were in school at the time) that tradition died with the 12 students. It would be really hard to have that on campus again. I know I am rambling... but it is hard to verbalize my thoughts...

May our great Comforter be with those families that are missing their children, brothers and sisters that passed away 10 years ago.

Rubber Duckie- revisited

2009-11-16T20:42:00.001-06:00

It is amazing what a difference a month makes...

4 months...

2009-11-15T20:09:00.003-06:00

Sweet Baby Doll,

Your daddy and I are so thankful for you sweet, sweet baby. You have definitely spoiled us. You let us know when you are hungry or tired, but other than that- happy happy. You are pretty flexible as well if we are up a little past your bedtime, which has been nice for the weekend. You sleep like a champ! We are definitely making it through the night and if I do a "dream feed" at 10 before we go to bed you will sleep from 7 pm to 7 am- we are so spoiled! I really can't believe it has already been 4 months- it has truly flown by just like everyone said it would! You have also started laughing a bit- there have been a few times we have gotten some really good chuckles. It will be fun when you are laughing more. I love that you will smile when others talk to you and that you are not too serious of a baby. You have just about the sweetest smile that melts our hearts! When men have strong voices, sometimes you get startled and cry, putting that lip out there in a very sad face. You are talking a TON- chatter chatter. That is how we know you are up in the morning or from a nap- we just hear you talking. We don't even need the monitor because we can hear you so well. We think you definitely have mommy's voice. You are really enjoying your exersaucer, but we think you have outgrown the baby einstein mat with your active rolling and scooting. You are grabbing at everything and putting it in your mouth and are really enjoying your toys. We have a big weekend planned this weekend to go to Abilene to see all of your aunties and uncles. Aunt Rebecca and Uncle Tuck have not seen you since July and they are not going to believe how big you are!

We love you love you love you sweet, sweet baby girl! You make our hearts so full and we can't wait to see what is in store next.

busy busy...

2009-11-11T21:59:00.002-06:00

We have been busy over here at the Thomas household. The fall always seems to go quickly and football usually keeps the weekends busy as well. I have been going through Civil 3D training this week which has meant longer days at the office (I am staying until 5 where as normally I leave around 2 or so). Tomorrow is the last day for that and I am really glad- I have been missing that extra time with one sweet baby in particular.

Yesterday I went to eat lunch at Koppe Bridge with some co-workers during our training break to discuss one of our projects and guess who walked in with his secret service entourage? George Bush Senior. Very cool! He had about 3 secret service with him in the restaurant and as we were leaving there was another SUV in the parking lot with what looked like 3 more Secret Service. It wasn't too crowded there which was fun and he was about 3 tables away from us. I just smiled at him at one point and he smiled back.

I think it is so cool that of all places he is in B-CS a lot.

Sweet baby Claribel turned 4 months yesterday- holy moly I can not believe it! I will have a post on that soon... I got her laughing really good in the car last night on the way home from dinner- so cute! Can't wait until those chuckles are more common place occurances. Wow, how much I love that little thing!

More to come-

First Halloween

2009-11-01T11:13:00.003-06:00

The Happiest little baby duck we ever saw!

Infant Dedication

2009-11-01T10:49:00.003-06:00

October 10, 2009

Behold, children are a gift of the LORD, The fruit of the womb is a reward.

Like arrows in the hand of a warrior, So are the children of one's youth.

How blessed is the man whose quiver is full of them.

Psalm 127: 3-5a

yippee! I won!!!

2009-10-12T18:18:00.002-05:00

My dear friend Kelli had a little giveaway this past weekend for The Jesus Storeybook Bible and I won one of the 3 she was giving away! I am so excited! Claribel is starting to really enjoy reading books and I am excited to grow into this one. We have a little boardbook Bible with stories, but it is seriously lacking in the New Testament department... I didn't notice this when we registered for it. I am so excited about this new book with the audio.

Remember all of those books with records that we listened to as kids (with the little chimes telling you when to turn the page? I hope she will enjoy this as much as my sisters and I did those when we were little.

Thanks Kelli! I am so excited-

growth...

2009-10-11T22:30:00.003-05:00

October 10, 2009

September 10, 2009

August 10, 2009

Rubber Duckie...

2009-10-11T20:45:00.003-05:00

You're

the

one

Three Months...

2009-10-10T21:43:00.006-05:00

Sweet Baby Doll,
I truly can't believe another month has gone by. Everyone keeps telling us how the time flies by and before you know it... Well, I definitely see that happening already! You are just about the best thing (after your daddy) that ever came into my life. What joy you bring to my heart and that little smile of yours melts my heart and is so unbelievably contageous. It is especially fun in the middle of the night when we hear you knowing that you have "turtled" (turned over and woken yourself up) and when we come to flip you back you smile as if to say- "good morning, I have been waiting for you!" It is so cute, but definitely at those times we quickly turn you over and pat your back to help you back to sleep. You have been a sleeping champ up until the past week and I think you must be going through a growth spurt... I sure hope we get back to your 12 hour sleeps soon :) your naps during the day have also been unusually short as well and you are wanting to feed sooner so I do think it is the 3 month growth spurt.

Everyone always comments on how they never hear you cry and it is true, you hardly ever cry unless you are overtired, hungry, or dirty. You are definitely spoiling us and it will be hard if our next baby is not as easy as you (whenever that time comes).

Tomorrow we are having you dedicated at church... What an important charge the Lord has given your daddy and me over you. We pray that He can use us to point you towards Him and that you come to trust Him as your Saviour at a young age. Sometimes the responsibility of raising you seems overwhelming, but I know that the Lord does not give us more than we can handle and that He can use us in your life even though sometimes I doubt.

You are such a cherished gift to your daddy and me and so many others and I pray that my words and actions towards you will always help you to know that.

I love you to the moon and back... momma

For the Aunties...

2009-09-18T17:05:00.012-05:00

Here are some recent videos of Claribel doing her "exercises". She is getting so big and interactive. Recently she has also been extending her arm in her "power to the people" position and really studying her hand. We need to get a video of that as well.

pb&j

2009-09-15T12:13:00.002-05:00

For the past 31 years, I have never eaten a peanut butter and jelly sandwich. I guess I must have had a bite when I was little, but I don't remember. All I remember is that I did not like them and never wanted to eat them; they kind of grossed me out, honestly. I would have opted for peanut butter and honey or just peanut butter if I had to. Last week, I was putting some yummy bonne mama's blackberry preserves on my bagel for breakfast and accidentally dripped a glob on the bread that I was going to make a sandwich out of for lunch. I had a dilemma... throw away said piece of bread or try peanut butter and jelly for the first time in YEARS. I decided that I might actually like it with the yummy fresh ground honey roasted peanut butter from the HEB and the tasty preserves. Well, I did like it! In fact, I have had quite a few of them since this realization last week. I guess all this time I was a peanut butter and jelly snob... It just had to be the right peanut butter and jelly! yummy! I just had one for lunch at work and it was oh so tasty! Hey- has anyone ever had a pluot (plum apricot hybrid)? I bought some at the lovely Farm Patch in town and it is really good! I really need to start going there once a week- I think it would be a great way to start my Saturday mornings.

Auntie Karen comes to visit...

2009-09-13T17:40:00.002-05:00

I am so glad that one of my besties Karen was able to come meet Claribel! She flies for Air-Tran so it is really nice that she has the ability to fly out here pretty regulary and fairly effortlessly (well at least she says it is easy... sure is easy for me!) We had such a nice visit and she was able to spend some good time with Claribel. Thanks so much for coming and we look forward to seeing you again soon!

Leave it to Karen to have some fun with that crazy hair!

Two Months...

2009-09-11T14:35:00.007-05:00

Claribel, I can't believe that you are two months and 1 day old! This sweet baby time with you has just flown by and really has been a blast for your daddy and me. You are such a good baby, pretty much only cry when you are hungry or tired and overstimulated. You are sleeping through the night and have been for several weeks now, which is so GREAT! I love getting you in the morning, so happy to start the day. You have also been smiling for a few weeks now and are really smiling alot now. It is so fun! Your hair is still pretty wild and not too much of it has fallen out so that is good. You are really enjoying your baby einstein play mat and can lay on it for a pretty good little stretch if needed. You have been in your crib for several weeks and it is crazy how much you move around in that thing. You have shown us that you can roll from your stomach to your back in the crib and on the Einstein Mat. Your little legs are so strong and from your tummy you can scoot all over your crib. We have found you at all sides and in all corners of the crib after your naps. Your eyes are a little lighter blue than when you were born and GE (Grandma Elaine) is hoping that her blue eyes will have been passed to you (but we still have awhile until we will know that). You are such a happy baby and a good eater and sleeper. We just love you so much and CAN NOT imagine our life wtihout you in it!

I took some pictures to compare to the one month ones last Thursday night...

Today we had her 9 week (2 month) well baby visit with Dr. R. She is doing so well and right on track! I hated when they had to give her shots... it suprised her and she cried- poor baby!

Two month Stats:

Length: 22 in (25th-50th %)

Weight: 10 lb 4 oz (25th %)

Head: 25th %

A week ago Friday...

2009-09-11T14:33:00.004-05:00

Ray has off on Fridays during these tough economic times, which has been nice since he can watch Claribel on Fridays if I need to go into the office. It was really hard leaving the house last Friday when this was going on in our room...

I am gad he is be able to take advantage of a few of those nice morning naps with Claribel that I was able to have during my 6 1/2 weeks off of work. Fun, snuggle times :)

sick days...

2009-09-07T16:15:00.004-05:00

Poor little Claribel and I had some sick days last week. Tuesday when I fed her in the morning I noticed that she was a little congested, I had been since Saturday and I felt so bad for her! Other than that she seemed fine, so I went to work and Maria kept her. She didn't eat or sleep well for Maria and we had a hard night that night with her mostly in our bed so we could help keep her head a little elevated. I decided to stay home/ work from home on Wednesday and Thursday. I pretty much kept her in the Moby wrap all day and she slept a TON! I could tell she was so tired! Wednesday night she even slept the night with me in the Moby Wrap, which wasn't the most restful, but I know it was better rest for her than if she would have been in her crib not being able to breathe very well. Now it is Monday (well actually I am finishing this post on Friday) and she is doing much better. She has slept the past basically 2 weeks from at least 10 pm to 6 am. Praise the Lord! I want to go back through my little log of sleep/ feeding and count the number of times I actually had to get up between the hours of 12 am and 6 am... I don't think there were that many. Not that I don't expect to have to do that some more times in her lifetime :)

sweet baby...

2009-08-31T19:01:00.002-05:00

I just love how Claribel looks when she is sleeping, esp. when she has her legs curled up under her and her little bootie in the air... those little piggies visible and oh so kissable.

This might be the last time she can wear this lovely pink smocked gown that Monie found since it is Newborn size... the neck is a bit snug. She peed on the back while I was changing her diaper so we had a little impromptu photo shoot on the changing table. I love smocking- so sweet!

so big and so small...

2009-08-28T16:57:00.008-05:00

Claribel has grown out of her "bassinet", this great pram that mom found for us in Colorado at a Once Upon a Child. She is a real scooter with those strong legs she has and needed more room to do her thing. We are going to have to take some before and after pics to show how far she goes... She has also rolled from her stomach to her back (i guess by getting one leg really going and propelling herself over). The angelcare monitor is great for our peace of mind... except for the few false alarms we have had- thankfully they have not woken C up... we will just have to find the sweet spot on the sensitivity. The problem is when she scoots herself all the way over to the edge of the crib and I guess since she is so small the mat is not catching her movement.

I think she might miss her bears... she seemed to stare at the side of the bassinet at the little bears on the fabric. Hopefully she will enjoy the flowers as much :)

This picture is driving me NUTS! Will not upload correctly (blogger keeps rotating it)... and i am out of patience and time... gotta go feed Cbel before Home Church tonight... and i hear her grunting so I know she is waking up... or between sleep cycles at least :)

Friday Morning...

2009-08-28T12:29:00.006-05:00

Could there be anything more beautiful for me to wake up to in the morning than my wife and daughter?

first day back at work...

2009-08-26T19:15:00.004-05:00

Today was my first day back at work part time... I had gone in a few times for an hour here and there, but this was my first day back on my 30 hour a week schedule. It was not nearly as bad as I thought it would be... i thought i would be on the verge of tears all day long... I am so thankful to have practically a perfect situation for me to feel comfortable and not have as hard of a time leaving my little baby bird. I initially wanted to work 20 hours a week, but to have health insurance (which was very important for us), I have to work 30 hours. The plan is to get to work around 8:35 or so and work until about 3 and then come home to wake up Claribel to eat. Maria (our WONDERFUL nanny) comes at 8:30 and wakes up Claribel to eat around 9, she takes another nap and then wakes her up to eat around noon (unless of course she wakes up on her own) and she leaves at 2 with C asleep in her crib. At first I was not waking her up, but I don't think she was getting enough feedings in... We will see what the Pediatrician has to say at her next appointment on the 11th.

What makes it so much easier for me is that Ray works from home and is here should anything happen, it also allows me to get that extra hour in after the nanny leaves. I may or may not go into the office on Fridays (if there is enough for me to do from home during naps during the week and on Friday) and Ray will keep her if needed on Fridays, since he is still not working Fridays.

I am so thankful to have such an amazing workplace with a flexible, amazing boss that is letting me decide what works best for my family. SO THANKFUL! I am so thankful that the Lord brought us back here to live, this flexibility would NOT be the case at my workplace in Dallas and I would have a really hard time working full time and not get to spend time with her during the day. I think for me the hardest part about full time in my job is how drained I am after the day/ week and I am afraid that I would feel like I didn't have much left to give to children.

So, this is a perfect solution for us. I came to the realization (when someone asked at work when I would resume full time work) that I might not ever. I would love to always be there after school when they get off and to have time to make dinner... it would also help me balance "me time" being able to get to the gym, etc. later on. Well, that is where I am... working, at home, thankful, and blessed!

The best part of my day was coming home to these two loves of my life!

some pics from this week...

2009-08-26T19:14:00.003-05:00

A few pictures...

you talking to me bird?

This is the outfit that we got to bring her home from the hospital in... It actually fit her pretty good- is a size 0-3 months (but a pretty small one) and I am afraid this was one of our last wears of this outfit (now that we are in the cloth diapers (they put a little more junk in the trunk). It is one of our favorites and I hope that we have another girl or some girl cousins to wear it also! sweet baby grin- it is so fun to start getting those smiles!

funny face...

my 31st...

2009-08-23T19:38:00.003-05:00

I had a wonderful 31st birthday yesterday. d and Monie brought over steaks from Readfield's and d and Ray gave them the Weber touch. We had PW's crash hot potatoes (seriously, if you still think that baked potatoes are the best choice with steak- you MUST try these), and corn on the cob. Topped it off with Brownie sundae's... yummy!

Of course mom loved holding Claribel while she napped and we watched a movie- Mall Cop, pretty entertaining...

And Monie fed Claribel her bottle. I wish I would have gotten a better picture of her in her outfit... she looked so cute in this little dress that was one of the first things that Monie bought her... and I love those trumpette mary jane socks. Unfortunately, Ray saw them at Blue Kangaroo on display on a little plastic baby foot and has had a hard time getting that creepy image out of his head (i think it is getting better though, seeing them on cutie Claribel's feet).

pictures for my aunties...

2009-08-23T18:28:00.006-05:00

So, I am going to try and be better about posting at least pictures really regularly for little Claribel's Aunties that don't live close but love her dearly!

cutie belly button after bath time,

with Frannie close by to try and lick off lotion after we put it on

another sleeping baby in one of my favorite gowns (great find by Monie)

daddy time... working on getting tired to go to sleep

lunch time break with Daddy

here comes frannie...

cold nose!

cheese!

meeting Meme and Aunt Barbara for the first time- Lunch at Jose's today

One Month...

2009-08-12T19:25:00.007-05:00

One Month old... it has gone by so fast, yet has felt like we have had you in our lives for much longer! The pics below were taken on your one month birthday... you have grown so so much and we just think you are the cutest baby- don't even get GrandE started...

The one below is what we call "angry elf" (from the movie Elf with Will Ferrell). It makes me so sad when you are sad and this was definitely the last picture of the bunch. I know pretty soon we are going to have to let you cry some to learn to go to sleep by yourself, but I am not ready quite yet.

Your head control is pretty strong thankfully since we have not done a lot of tummy time. You do sleep on your stomach (I know, I know...) so you get to practice your head control then as well. We got the Angelcare monitor which senses movement (good for tummy sleepers) and are hopefully going to get that all set up this weekend and start at least napping in your crib. The buggy is great, but you are getting pretty big in there and I think I will sleep much better when I can't hear all the noises so much... maybe...

We had some sadness at the beginning of the week. Your tiny big toenails were not growing in good and one had gotten a little infected. Your poor toe was bright red. So, we went to visit the doc on Monday and it turned out you had a slight fever and minor ear infection in your right ear- poor baby! So, we have been giving you antibiotics (Daddy is really good at it) and you seem to like it as much as I did when I was little- yummy ammoxicillian (sp?). The doctor said just to rub the toe nail out with a warm washrag which I did on Sunday when we noticed it and it was already looking better when the doctor saw it. It is not even really pink at all anymore. You also seem to be feeling better with the antibiotics (we had noticed that you were a bit fussy which was so abnormal for our sweet, happy baby).

This is a picture of some awake time on the baby einstein mat (Thanks Aunt Rachael). She does pretty good laying here looking at the whale. I know once she gets older it will be more and more fun for her!

Finally, our sweet sleeping baby, nothing cuter than a sleeping baby.

We will hopefully be posting some pictures soon from the photographer that came and took newborn pics (www.tinybirdphotography.com). They turned out really good and she was such a joy to work with. Sadness that she is moving to Houston, but hopefully she will still be up for CS shoots as our family grows.

Claribel, you have already brought immeasurable joy and love to our hearts and we can't imagine life without you sweet baby! We can't wait to see what the future holds for our now family of three (well, 4 with frandog) and know that the Lord has much in store!

We love you our little Bel-

August 7th...5 years!

2009-08-11T19:46:00.005-05:00

Last Friday we celebrated our 5th anniversary! I can't believe that we have been married 5 years- the time really has flown by, yet I also feel like I have known Ray for SO LONG... much longer than 6 years. I am so thankful for the blessing that he is in my life and can't imagine life without him. It has been so fun to see him grow into a wonderful daddy as well. He loves Claribel so much and she has him wrapped around her little fingers.

Above is a picture from when we were first dating- We went to Daniel and Amy's wedding in Beaumont with Lori and this guy Vlad (remember that character Lori?).

and a few pictures from the wedding- definitely one of the happiest days of my life- the happiest until July 10, 2009 and that day ranks up there pretty high as well!

Here we are in Jamaica on our honeymoon- What a wonderful vacation- I really can't believe that it was five years ago!

And finally, we went to La Riviera for our anniversary dinner. Monie kept Claribel which was nice, since when she is with us we are a little distracted (not that I don't mind being distracted of course :) ) It was just nice to be able to focus on the two of us for the night.

It was a lovely dinner with my honey.

Happy 5th Ray- I look forward to MANY more years to come!

CG's Baby Shower...

2009-08-03T17:46:00.003-05:00

I am a little late in posting this, but I had the pleasure to help hostess a baby shower a week ago Sunday for a friend from High School, Christina, with some other friends from High School that I have not seen in FOREVER! It was so nice to catch up with so many people that I have not seen in 10+ years... Laurel, Jessica L, Anne W, Whitney, Kendra, Dara... Of course it was all I could remember to make sure I had anything I might need for Claribel that I completely forgot my camera... Hopefully I can track down some pictures since Christina's sister Mary had her camera... I did take pictures of the diaper cake I made for a center piece. It was a fun project and looked really cute with the cake and flowers on the table. I have a feeling there might be more of these in my future :) I included a few other homemade items on the cake that I was planning on making for CG before we decided to do a diapercake: 4 burpcloths with fabric topstitched down the center, a little taggie blanket, and a flannel blanket with yellow on one side and a handsome navy stripe on the other. Most of the items on the cake were ones that CG registered for- the shoes, rubber duck that has a "hot" indicator on the bottom, the toys, pacifiers, and the baby soap and baby lotion that is at the center of the cake. Here are pictures going around the cake to the right...

outings...

2009-08-03T17:24:00.005-05:00

We have enjoyed a few outings as a family of three including dinner at Jose's and sno-cones at JJ's, dinner at Jose's and shakes with d and Monie, a few Target runs, Cheddar's, and Sunday School and lunch this past Sunday. This is a picture of little bell after her bath and in her sleeper right before we went to Cheddar's last Saturday night. She just looked so cute all ready to go I had to get a picture. Her little cheeks are chubbing up quite nicely :)

This is a picture of some snuggle time during a movie last night. She was wearing a onesie from Ray's co-worker Shanthi that says "Who needs a superhero when I have my dad?" Indeed...

family...

2009-07-27T22:52:00.010-05:00

Grand-E and Popsi Uncle Tuck and Aunt Rebecca

Aunt Rachael
Auntie Allison

Poppop and Becky (Becky is also waiting to see what Claribel calls her)

2 weeks...

2009-07-27T19:49:00.022-05:00

Claribel, I can't believe you are already 2 weeks old (and a few days...)! The time has flown by and we just can't imagine life without you in it. You are such a good baby and hardly ever cry unless you are hungry or need a new diaper. Of course, your daddy and I think you are just the cutest and sweetest little thing we have ever seen! I think you are quite spoiled as far as being held most of the time, awake or asleep. You have both of us wrapped around your tiny fingers and daddy really loves time with his "little bell" as he calls you.

Your daddy had two weeks off from work which was really nice, but he had to go back to work this week, which has been a transition not having his help all day long. It is nice that he is here for work so we get a nice lunch break together and there is no "commute" time home from work.

You have some crazy hair that just sticks up all over and we just love it!

It seems that you enjoy bathtime most of the time, just so long as we have the warm water running on you and you don't get too cold. We always wrap you up in the cozy hooded towel and take our time getting you lotioned and dressed in your gown. You look so cute in that hooded towel, all bright eyed.

You really like your Wubbanub pacifier that I got for you in Dallas. The lady at the shop was suprised that I wasn't buying one when I went to pay for the pages for your baby book. It is a pretty neat little thing and you can hold on to it pretty well to help it stay in your mouth... you are quite the sucker...

I really enjoy our special times together when I am feeding you, something only I do right now and I am not eager to give up that time. I am always so amazed at how perfect you are while we sit there in the rocker... your tiny little fingers, toes, and sweet little nose... I had to stop listening to the Lullaby CD that Monie gave us because every time your daddy walked in I was crying just thinking about the words to the songs "that you are only little for a little while" and how I was so happy to finally be "welcoming home my little traveler that I had waited for so long. I had to convince him over and over that it is not postpartum depression and that I was just happy and overwhelmed by the love I had for you right when you were born. I have to wait awhile until my hormones settle down a bit and then we can listen to that CD again... We have been enjoying Fernando Ortega though and other songs that your Daddy put on a playlist for us.

and Frannie... she likes you pretty well too. She doesn't like it too much when you are upset and makes sure that we are paying attention to you when you make those little squeaks. She was really excited when we brought you home and was pretty wound up- she has definitely settled into the new normal watching over "her baby", making sure you are safe and happy.

The first 48...

2009-07-12T22:38:00.006-05:00

"Whatever you want!"

d said while holding Claribel

Uncle Andrew & Auntie Allison

When Andrew came and saw Claribel at the end of the day he asked Auntie Allison what she did all day and she said "this is it!"

Doing my job - getting Claribel ready for skin-to-skin time with Mama...

Claribel in her papoose - she has some pretty wild hair...may have inherited some calics from Daddy.

We need to get pictures from Auntie Allsion and Grandma's camera. And Claribel is looking forward to meeting Aunt Rebecca & Uncle Tuck and Aunt Rachael this coming weekend!

Claribel Elaine is here!

2009-07-11T17:05:00.004-05:00

Claribel Elaine Thomas was born yesterday at 6:22 PM weighing 7 lbs 8 oz, 21 inches long. Both Melissa and Claribel are doing well and we expect to go home Monday morning.

Thank you all for your thoughts and prayers.

Independence Weekend...

2009-07-06T09:40:00.003-05:00

We thought it was pretty funny that our last weekend of "independence" before our sweet baby arrives involved Independence Day. We enjoyed celebrating with friends (one of their daughter's birthdays) and then fireworks from the Reed Arena Parking Lot. I must say that it was refreshing once again to be in B-CS and not in DFW where everything is so over the top. We made it out to Addison's Kaboom Town twice while living up there and it was incredible, but pretty overwhelming the money spent on fireworks.

It cooled off with a nice breeze in time for fireworks (or waiting for fireworks) and I was happy that Ray was able to see his fireworks this year. He really loves the 4th of July and fireworks, really the month of July and I am so happy that Claribel will provide him another reason to love the month of July!

Ray took the above photo... i looked over right in time- seriously that is a big belly... and some really swollen feet. I never knew how bad my finger joints would hurt from all of the fluid retention as well (I don't think my fingers LOOK that swollen, but I sure feel it)

Hooded Towels

2009-07-06T09:32:00.002-05:00

I was really disappointed when registering at how thin the hooded towels were. So, I went to Tuesday am and bought some towels and wash rags to make my own. This was a project I did awhile back, super easy with endless possibilities for embellishment. I just cut the towels in half and the wash rags along the diagonal, matched up the squared corners and added binding. The pink towels are kind of small, but the white ones with green rags were more of a bath sheet size and will be a good size for her when she is bigger as well.

It is always nice to use up scraps of fabric that I already have as well for a project :)

last nursery picture...

2009-07-06T09:26:00.002-05:00

Here is the missing nursery picture from the last post. This is the wall opposite the changing table, to the left of the crib, to the right of the dresser. This piece was in Monie's parent's house, a lovely shade of green and Dad painted it- It is really neat how the color turned out so pearly (Monie was of course our color consult). Mom and dad took it home last week to finish scraping the glass from spraying it and mom found the cute pink knobs. I really love the size of it- perfect for baby! Above is her name in the unfinished letters I found online and painted. That was a fun little project :)

her nursery...

2009-06-29T09:33:00.005-05:00

Well, we finally have *mostly* everything hung and done in her room, so I thought I would post some pictures- I am so happy with the way everything turned out and know we will enjoy spending a lot of time in her room

Ray and I painted these verses for her room (have to credit the ETSY shop Red Letter Art for the inspiration)

Close up of the inside of the bedding- I had a bear from d and Monie just like the dark brown one only mine was light brown (and I decided to put lotion all over it to make it softer, you know, like our skin... didn't work out quite so well). I ordered the mobile from PB Baby- Mom felt very strongly that Claribel would be missing out if she didn't have one that played music and spun around. I really like it, so grandma and mama are happy :)

This is the outside of the bed to show the fabric on the other side of the bumper- creamy white with mint green polka dots. The bed skirt has baby pink satin ribbon between the fabrics that won't be visible until it is altered as the mattress lowers. It was such a blast picking out fabrics and ribbons at High Fashion Fabric in Houston with Monie (which seems like forever ago). That place is amazing!

This is to the right of the crib- rocker/ glider, another verse (click on the picture to be able to read it), and the changing table/ bookshelf that my talented husband built.
Better view of the changing table. It has the narrow shelves on the sides for books and we can use it leter for toys, books or whatever. Ray did such a nice job, Dad sprayed it with his rig and I am just so happy with the end result!
This the wall opposite the crib, a piece of my grandad and grandmir's furniture. The drawers are perfect because they are pretty small to hold small clothes :) To the left of this is the closet, to the right is the door. The wall to the right of this and to the left of the crib will have a small china cabinet type piece that is so cute that Dad sprayed the same creamy white as the changing table, but it still has some work to be done to have it ready. Above it will be her name in wooden letters that I painted. Right now there is only the C and L and the beginning and end hanging up so I will add a picture once that is done.

So there it is... pretty much all ready for little miss to make her appearance. Now, I am just doing other little things that will be nice to have done, but are not necessities before she is here... 12 more days!

let the countdown begin...

2009-06-23T09:45:00.001-05:00

I just had my 37 week appointment and am happy to report that little miss has a deadline :) Dr. B is going to induce July 10th if she has not decided to come yet. She will be out of town the next week, and I am glad because I really want her to deliver the baby, she has been the greatest doctor! I am really glad to have a light flashing at the end of the tunnel. Now, we just need to finish up a few things around the house :) And, sorry Karen, but she will not make it to your birthday on the 17th or Ray's on the 15th.

I wish I didn't know now, what I didn't know then...

2009-06-22T15:25:00.003-05:00

This country song has been stuck in my head the past few days... here are some of the things I still wish I didn't have to know...

1. That my feet could swell up so much and look like elephant feet that no shoe on earth (esp. not one that Dillard's carries) can handle.
2. The heaving and ho-ing that would take place to sit up/ roll out of bed for the many bathroom trips each night.
3. How I could be SO ready to have this sweet little girl here, yet also hope for more time to get all those little things done.
4. That I can never wear a shirt more than one day before it is off to the hamper because of dropping something on it while eating/ drinking, etc.
5. That the swelling of said feet in item 1 would bring back pain from an ankle sprain over a year ago!
6. How hard it would be to concentrate on walking normally when I really want to rock back and forth in a waddle while I walk...

Of course I also didn't know how amazing this whole experience would be, having a living growing baby in my tummy, shifting all around :) And, in retrospect, this last 8 months has gone by pretty fast... although it hasn't always felt like it...

hot...

2009-06-10T09:56:00.001-05:00

So, last night our AC decided it was tired of being pushed to the limits and quit on us. Ray realized and came and told me around 11 pm. I had noticed it was feeling warm, but had been asleep since 8:30 (yes, that is my bedtime these days). We decided to stay and hope it didn't warm up too much, not wanting to pack a bag and waste good sleeping time to go find an air conditioned room. It wasn't too bad, thankfully and the AC guys are supposed to be coming out today.

I feel bad though since Ray works from home these days, there is no relief for him. He said when he came back from the gym this am Fran-dog came out of her crate really slowly with her tongue hanging out wanting to check and see if it was cooler outside... funny... we have one spoiled dog that LOVES the AC as much as we do!

6 more weeks...

2009-06-03T20:22:00.002-05:00

I truly can't believe that I only have 6 more weeks until Claribel's due date! It has gone by really fast, yet slow at the same time. I have much still to accomplish, but at this point, I have a place for her to sleep and feel like she could come and it would be fine. Still on my list are organizing her room... the majority of which can hopefully happen this weekend, painting some wooden letters that spell her name, painting 2 canvases for art for her room (Ray is going to do this), dad is going to spray her changing table amd another piece of furniture for the room, and that should be it.

We decided to go ahead and unpack the rest of the boxes that had not been unpacked from our move a year ago February. Our house was not completely done, so lots of boxes have been in the garage. It felt really good to deal with all of that stuff- repack and organize stuff to use once we have another bedroom/ bathroom, take tons of stuff to Goodwill and get a box together for Half Price Books. Phew... it was quite a chore last weekend, and our house is still a disaster of sorts, but it feels good to have dealt with it.

Ok, it is off to bed for me- I pretty much make it to about 8:30 and am ready to hit the sack. Makes it hard to get much done during the week after work :)

Oh, and Claribel is moving around and growing like CRAZY! It has been really neat the past two weeks to be able to feel her head or bootie (not sure which one :) ) and feel her move really clearly and see my stomach move when she does. What an amazing thing to feel and experience...

oh... and last night...

2009-05-05T13:19:00.001-05:00

Ray and I made these Blueberry muffin s (without the yogurt blueberry sauce). AMAZING!

i have emerged... sort of...

2009-05-05T12:36:00.002-05:00

So, yeah... it has been a LONG time since I last posted... LONG TIME!!! I have about 4-5 posts that I have started that need pictures and was having trouble, oh a month or so ago when I was trying to download them from the camera (so there might be a few that show up soon before this one since they post in the order I created them (if I remember correctly). Ray is supposed to help me, I keep saying "i need to do that"... but alas, hasn't happened. So here is a post sans pics.

I have been up to...
1. Naming our baby girl Claribel Elaine. We love the name and are SO excited. After all the inward debate as far as telling the name, we decided to tell and honestly have only had positive feedback... so if you don't like it... go ahead and keep it to yourself :) haha... Elaine is my mother's name, btw...
2. Sewing up a storm- Crib skirt, crib bumber, burp cloths, a little "taggie" type lap blanket, embroidering a few clothing items and a few blankets... next up is my baby book cover, that I want to have done for the shower next week- I am using the bedding fabric so people can see what I have chosen.
3. Registering
4. Aqua moms water aerobics class which I still totall love- Can't wait until our neighborhood public pool opens up and is warm enough to go there as well.
5. Figuring out childcare- We have found a wonderful lady that is going to come to our house!
6. Taking CPR (including infant) and first aid class with St. Jo's
7. We are signed up for childbirth class this Saturday, gonna be a long day...
8. Ordering goodies for Claribel's room- Rug, Best chair (rocking chair- amazing), crib
9. Ray has been busy building her a changing table/ bookshelf- It turned out so nice and I can't wait until it is painted. Dad is going to paint it as well as a table in our Living room that has needed some dark wine-red paint and possibly another piece for Claribel's room from Monie's dad's house.
10. Washing, ironing, sorting, hanging, folding beautiful baby clothes. There is SO much for little girls and for all of you local folks- Once upon a child is amazing!
11. Learning about cloth diapering, spending some time in the little boutique in town that sells cloth diapers. My sister Allison was in town and went with Ray and I when we went to register there and it was pretty funny- I guess I hadn't mentioned to her that we were going to cloth diaper...
12. Working full time
13. Trying to do all of this and still get in bed around 9 pm. I seriously crash out about that time.

we go together...

2009-03-25T12:56:00.004-05:00

Tilly, my parent's yorkie came to visit us during their spring break (they went to help Rebs and Tucker-T with their ongoing home remodel). It was a long week with those two, especially for Ray working from home. Tilly is a barker and likes to make herself known to all she "thinks" she sees outside... It is so funny to see those two together- they are quite an odd duo and love each other mucho. Attached are some pics of the mornings, what I experienced while putting on makeup in the room next to Fran's crate. She normally would not like Tilly to enter her "den", but since Tilly just laid in there and didn't come lick her or anything it was okay. Very funny...

flowers just because...

2009-03-24T21:08:00.003-05:00

i'm his baby mama

Ray has been so good about bringing flowers lately... these are from a bit ago, right when we found out we were having a girl...

to tell, or not to tell...

2009-02-25T13:55:00.004-06:00

Ray and I have had much discussion on baby names and whether or not to tell the baby name we have picked out before the baby is born. People just have strong opinions about these things like baby names and do we really want to know? We just aren't sure... Maybe the difference would be to say "our baby's name is ---" instead of "these are names we like/ are thinking". When I tell people that we aren't going to tell the name, many say "that is a good idea, someone will always say, Oh you can't name them that, i knew a girl in 2nd grade with that name and she was so mean" or something like that... So what to do... We have not totally nailed down a name yet, but are pretty strong on one, just not sure of the middle and last name combo.

My sister Allison was surprised we are thinking of not telling the name and said "I don't care if you name her Sassy just so long as I am Auntie Allison"...

So, my question is this- What do you think? Did you tell your baby name and wish you hadn't because of the feedback? Or, was it fine- once the name was set people just said wonderful things about the name you had chosen"

it's a...

2009-02-24T13:52:00.001-06:00

girl!!! We are so excited and can't wait for Ray to be outnumbered... :) I know he will be a great dad to a little girl... just like my dad is.

UTI...

2009-02-24T13:15:00.002-06:00

So, I have had a pretty terrible lingering cough for the past month and a half... along with that some congestion, sneezing, etc... About 2 weeks ago my back started hurting pretty bad just at my rib cage on the left side. I talked to different people and they said it was possible to injure your ribs with bad coughing- however, all that I read said that there was really nothing that could be done and you just had to give it time to heal. So, I didn't really rush out to see the doctor, especially since no xray's with the pregnancy (which is the only way they can really diagnose a rib injury).

Yesterday morning I was putting on my socks and coughed and heard/ felt a pop/ crack sound. Then I was keeling over with the worst pain EVER! Thankfully Ray had not left for the gym yet so we went to the St. Joe's express clinic to see what they said. The doctor had me give a urine sample, which i thought was kind of wierd... Then the nurse came back and said "He is diagnosing you with a urinary tract infection", like she herself thought it was a bogus copout. It really upset me because, hello!, something POPPED! I could tell she felt bad and I asked her if she thought he would have at least done an xray if I wasn't pregnant and she said "probably so".

So, that is fun... hopefully things will get better... It is really painful to laugh, cough, sneeze, etc... All those things that I am still doing a lot of with the lingering cough and congestion...

Bridge Lesson

2009-02-18T08:19:00.004-06:00

Each year in May, my dad, his cousins and now the son-in-laws (God bless 'em) get to partake in what they call Petty-Co Sports Extravaganza. Back when my dad was in High School, his dad and his dad's brothers and their sons started getting together each year for this men-family reunion/ sports competition. Over the years it has changed a bit as far as the "sports" they play, and now they have 3 events. Bridge (always been part of the weekend), washers, and either dominos or golf. The intensity of the weekend has also changed since only one of the original brothers is alive and he does not attend anymore. So, it is not stressful like it used to be when my dad would first go (my Papa and his brothers weren't known to be the kindest, gentlest of souls, especially during competition). They also pass around trophies for the winner in each event and "The Best of the Best" and "The Worst of the Best", that they take home for the year, add their name to it and bring it back the next year.

This will be Ray's fourth year to go and partake in this Petty tradition. He has been happy for Tucker (Rebecca's husband) to join him the past 2 years, so he wasn't the "Rookie" anymore. Bridge is definitely the most challenging event for Rookies, so Ray decided this year he needs to practice. Last night we had our first Bridge lesson with D, dad, Ray and I and it was pretty fun. I enjoy card games, but I can definitely see how complicated this game is, and we have only scratched the surface. Hopefully our weekly practice will help Ray shy away from the "Worst of the Best" trophy in the competition this year.

Purse for Iga

2009-02-16T15:15:00.004-06:00

Sunday was our Polish neighbor's 3rd birthday. It has been fun getting to know them over the past few months as they have only been in the US since September. Iga is 3 and just about the cutest thing EVER... I went to Joann's and got the cutest fabric and ribbon to make her a little purse for her birthday. She loves the color yellow and I was so happy with how it turned out... made me excited to have a little girl (which was great, because I have mostly been hoping for a little boy, mostly because my fam growing up was all girls, except my dad). I guess I didn't get a picture that shows the inside, but it is hot pink with light pink polka-dots. The strap is green and white polka grograin ribbon and the yellow satin ribbon.

ONE week from tomorrow

2009-02-16T12:58:00.003-06:00

Boy or girl, boy or girl, I don't know, we will find out!
I can't believe it is almost here! I can't wait to find out whether Ray or I will be outnumbered... we are definitely opting for the surprise at 20 weeks and not the surprise at 40 week option for this one!

Valentine's Day

2009-02-16T12:46:00.003-06:00

We decided about two weeks ago to grill out steaks at home for Valentine's Day. We have discovered that buying fillets and ribeyes from Readfield's (the local meat market) and using the Weber charcoal grill makes better steaks than the fanciest of steakhouses that we have been to. PERFECT! It is just hard to pay that much when they aren't as good as we make them at home! I also found this recipe for White Chocolate Raspberry Bread Pudding that I was going to make. But, it made a 9x13 which would take us forever to finish (and well, we shouldn't finish it). So, I called Don and Monie (basically our god parent's if we had some) and they joined us for Valentine's Day dinner. We had such a nice time and the steaks, crash hot potatoes and corn on the cob was wonderful... and do yourself a favor and make that bread pudding- amazing! For the leftovers I have not bothered with the white chocolate sauce and I think it is just as good without it. I also used fresh raspberries, because HEB didn't have any frozen ones- delish! Crash hot potatoes are now our go-to potato with steak- they are so good... actually I have always loved any Pioneer Woman recipe I have tried.

It was so nice to stay in on such a crowded restaurant day, I think we will make this a tradition. Ray and I will partake in our other yearly Valentine's poem tradition tonight. This was an idea from our pre-marital counselors... we write poems reflecting on the past year each year at Valentine's and it is so fun to look back (i have them in a red valentines scrapbook that I put together). Neither one of us are steller writers or poets by any means, but they are still fun (and pretty cheesy trying to rhyme). It is neat because we have one from every valentine's day we have been together since our first V-Day was after we were already engaged and in pre-marital counseling). It is a fun tradition that we hope to carry on with our kids once they are older...

Aqua Moms

2009-02-13T08:58:00.001-06:00

I just started taking Aqua Moms water aerobics at The Therapy Center with a hospital in town. I really like it and highly suggest it to any preggo ladies out there that have it in their town. Right now it isn't too challenging, but just a nice very moderate cardio workout. It feels really great to be in the pool and the company of other women in the same place in life is fun. It is also a wonderful change from Gold's. Something different and I know it is going to just feel better and better the further along I get. I am so glad my boss' wife told me about it!

Double Birthday

2009-02-02T17:31:00.003-06:00

Ray was very excited because we received a letter from the doctor in the mail following our most recent appointment that moved our due date up! It was set at July 24th, but the letter said July 15th, Ray's birthday (so, Karen, we might make it to the 17th for your birthday after all). We thought that was pretty fun! I just hope that sticks and we really are that far and don't have to wait until August, esp if the baby is late, which I know is common for a first baby.
We shall see... so excited...

Ray's Desk

2009-02-02T17:16:00.002-06:00

Pictured above is the front view. Ray came up with this design and he did such a great job with the design and execution! the box beam at the bottom hides computer cords and there are panels on each end that open to deal with cords.

Below is the Side View. He used pieces of sheet metal and distressed (rusted) them with bleach in different designs, then bolted them in place in a mosaic style. The inside panels are painted a deep brown color that pics up the dark rust color.

In the (fairly) newly painted office. The color looks quite a bit more pink in the picture than in real life (so much better than the old mustard yellow!). It looks so Nice! Of course in the back are both his electronic and acoustic drum kit, all of his favorite things. Ray finally got some sound-off pads for Christmas for his acoustic set so he can play without disturbing the neighborhood.

baby dodo...

2009-01-28T15:16:00.002-06:00

Yeah, I got it bad. I really just started noticing it today- thinking it was just because I am all congested and sickly, but I think it is the baby.

1. Asked a co-worker about a detail and he said "well shouldn't you just see about the city standards and apply that to you detail", well yeah! that is what I should do and what I did to get the detail info in the first place... duh... He just started laughing and I said "my head is foggy and I hope it is the congestion and not something that will last another 6 months or so"... more laughing
2. Leaving the office to eat lunch with Ray, I noticed a new rug at the front door of the office and commented "Oh, good, we finally got a rug"! Office Mgr laughed and said "a few weeks ago". No Way!
3. At the sandwich shop I was getting a straw for my drink and threw away the straw in the trash bucket and was left with the wrapper instead...

Ray is happy about it all (says he likes me like this)... He said that it makes him feel more normal when he does crazy stuff and forgets stuff... not comforting...

happy 14 1/2 weeks baby T!

2009-01-27T14:45:00.002-06:00

Today I had a doctor's appt. and we got to HEAR the heartbeat! Very exciting! I really love my doctor- she is so nice and I really feel like she is genuinely excited for US. I would think it would be hard to be so genuine when it is something you do all day long, but I feel like she is very genuine. I guess my previous doctors have been also, but I always seemed to have first appointments filled with bad news and nothing else, with two previous miscarriages. I guess this is how it feels to be on the other side! Anyway, I do love my doctor and that makes me happy...

Why I have been missing the past few weeks...
1. Got the sickie junk that is going around starting last Thursday and pretty much stayed on the couch Friday, Saturday and Sunday
2. My grandad (My mom's dad) passed away on January 10. I flew to Amarillo for the funeral on the 13th. I kept going back and forth whether or not I was going to go, knowing I most likely would not do too well for the 11ish hour drive with mom and dad. Finally decided to go that Monday morning and I am so glad that I did. Now that both of my mom's parent's have passed away, I don't know if we will really make that trek again and it was really nice to be able to see a lot of my mom's aunts and uncles that I have not seen in forever. It was also nice to visit with cousins that made the trip and of course see my sisters. I was sad that Ray wasn't able to go, but those tickets were so expensive last minute. I was SO TIRED after those two days of travel, I really don't know how you do it Kareb...
3. Still feeling nauseated... I thought I was passing the hump a few weeks ago, but maybe not, or maybe I am shifting into heartburn and gas and can't really tell too much of a difference... boo...

Will be posting pictures of Ray's awesome desk that he built for his office- it is A-MA-ZING!

better...

2009-01-11T12:40:00.002-06:00

Well, I am so happy to say that the nausea seems to be subsiding. At my 10 1/2 week appointment the doctor said that hopefully soon I would notice that only some of the day I felt nauseated and then pretty soon I would realize that I wasn't feeling bad anymore. So, today I am feeling really good! Hooray! Hopefully now I can enjoy this process a bit more...

sensitivities...

2009-01-08T10:27:00.001-06:00

So, I have been pretty much through the ringer with the preggo symptoms this first trimester, but yesterday, it hit me... the worst yet! Apparently my extra sensitive nose is really really sensitive to the "stinky breath" smell. Everyone I seem to talk to has it extra bad and the people that I noticed before this 12 week fiasco- HOLY COW knock me over! I walked into the gym last night and that is the smell that hit me, and the guy next to me on the treadmill- as my dad would say, Ai-Chimungus!!! I just got backed into the corner with my favorite co-worker to show him a setting on the scanner and I couldn't find it fast enough... Does this smell sensitivity business last all through pregnancy? I might have to start handing out some powerful gum...

Congratulations to Ray!

2008-12-30T15:16:00.003-06:00

I am so proud of the newest professional in our little family! Ray just found out that he passed his final architectural exam and can now go through the process (hopefully short) of getting his professional seal! What an accomplishment! HUGE! If you don't know, this is quite a process for architects... 9 tests... which just takes quite a bit of time... I am so happy that they FINALLY posted the results after 9 weeks and now we can celebrate. This is a really nice thing to have done before baby T arrives. My goal was to for sure be licensed before kiddos, but little did we know both of us would be. happy days!