Britt, Chris, and Jack

8, 9, 10

2012-02-09T08:16:00.000-08:00

Jack is 10 months old today and I realized I forgot to post his 8 & 9 months stats! The holidays were crazy and I STILL have to blog about those as well. Well, Here is a little catch-up on the STAR of mommies blog!

8 Months:

At 8 months, Jack was wearing size 12/18 Months! I could talk about his scruptious thighs ALL day! Jack celebrated his first Christmas at 8 months old and was COMPLETELY spoiled! (I ended up saving two of his presents for his birthday because all the toys are a little overwhelming.) I was really proud of myself for sticking to our budget and only spending $100 total on Jack. I shopped the sales and I was SO happy with the turnout :) PLUS with us giving him two of the presents to him for his birthday we spent even less! Plus, Jack's "new" uncle Nathan came home from his mission and they are already becoming best of friends :) So happy he is home! Anyways, Jack was REALLY getting into solid foods at 8 months and was eating dinner with us EVERY night! I like to buy the organic little food pouches because he likes the taste of REAL food. Thankfully Jack isn't really a picky eater so he was always happy with the meal we picked. Jack also had an adventure over New Years weekend! My dad, my sister Heather, Jack and I drove ALL the way to Eastern california to see my deathly ill Grandpa Ewell. Jack was SUCH a trooper on the trip! I can't believe how well behaved and content he was in the car for 12 hours one way! So happy my Grandma Ewell was able to meet Jack. He always told me he would live to see my two first born children. I hope that is the case...

On tracks with my boy! Going to walk around temple square

Christmas opening presents :)

Jack about to meet Nathan!

Uncle Nathan and Jack are best buds now :)

Best Buds!

Jack getting attacked by papa in our hotel room

Love this sweet picture of Jack and Grandpa Ewell holding hands

So tender :(

Three generations :)

9 Months:

Sigh...this was such a hard month for me. Jack had officially been out of my belly longer than he had been in it. PLUS, I was a little' disappointed the weight I had gained during my pregnancy wasn't GONE by this point. It's okay though, life goes on haha. At Jack's 9 month appt. He weighed 22.9 pounds in the 85th percentile, and was 22.6 inches long in the 24th percentile, the doctor said he was DUE for a growth spurt within that month and he was definitely correct! Jack is near 27-28 inches long! WOW! He grows fast! I felt he slept the entire month of January and the proof is in the pudding! ^ I have to say how proud I am at his leaps and bounds in growth. My Dr. makes me feel like such a good mom when he shows me his growth chart, he has taken a 180 from birth. Those late nights when we first brought him home and feeding him EVERY 2 hours whether he was awake or not gave him that jump start he needed. It's all worth it for my son. Jack is THE SWEETEST, most milder mannered, content, happy little boy I know. January was a fairly busy month as well. Chris started school at the U, and I started watching twin girls (OMG, pleasepleasepleaseplease can I have only boys??). Jack started getting up on his hands and knees and rocking back and fourth, so I THOUGHT he would start to crawl, but I think he has skipped that step and is going to go straight to walking. He is already trying to pull him self up on stuff and insists on standing as much as possible.

Biting me as I brush his 4 teeth.

Jack will kill me one day for posting this picture!..

What a sweetie :P

10 Months:

Double digits?! :( Sooo sad about this. Every stage of Jack development has been more and more exciting and I've loved his new quirks and he is just so smart. Jack is SUCH a joy to be around. I can't express how much I love that boy! We had a hiccup in the last few weeks of January...Jack caught RSV and became very ill, as most babies due around 6 month or less in age. Even though he was past the "risky" stage, Jack's lungs can still not withstand sickness to their full capacity because of being born premature. He was hospitalized for 2 days to have his lungs suctioned out and be on oxygen. He was on oxygen for a full week after we brought him home and made a FULL recovery. He's not my little weezy anymore and I'm positive it's because all of your prayers and thoughts sent my way. Thank you again. Jack also now has nearly 6 teeth! Crazy huh! Jack has become QUITE the goofball this month and his favorite place to visit is definitely the U of U hospital to see his auntie Heather :) He likes all the FOOD she gives him, haha donuts, mashed potatoes, rolls... She definitely spoils him, which I LOVE. I love seeing my family members loving my little Jack as much as I do, and I am happy to share him! I also never feel like I need "a break" from him. Chris and I have been on a total of 2 dates since Jack was born (3 this Saturday!!) because I genuinly miss him when we are apart. Anyways, basically you are getting my point of how completely IN LOVE we are with our son which haha we SHOULD be. Here is a list of jack's favorite things :)

Bathtime-Jack could LIVE in the bathtub. He now likes to lay on his tummy and blow bubbles
Mealtime-Ya, my boy loves food. He know when you are eating and is positive that he should be too.
Friends- Jack loves his friends in my daycare. His favorite is Kodee (she's 3) she is so sweet to him and brings him toys and gives him kisses. I think he is liking having an older woman for a girlfriend, haha.
Going on walks-Lets face it, we ALL need to get out of the house, kids are no exception.
Grandparents- from MY grandparents, to chris parents, my parents. Jack KNOWS his grandma's and papa's.
Cousins- Jack doesn't get to see his cousin Wesley often but when he does, they are pals. Wes doesn't like to share his mommy or papa so it's funny to see them interact. Jack LOVES his cousin Kyle. Kyle is SO sweet to him. Wish you could see them together. I'm glad Jack has a cousin to watch his back. Recently at a family party Lucas and Jack started interacting more. I think once the age gap is a little closer ( like when the are 2 and 3 they will be BEST buds.
Mommy- I know Jack loves me he reaches intently for me CONSTANTLY if he wasn't so heavy (now nearly 24 pounds) I would have him on my hip all day, but I don't wanna break my back..Jack also ONLY gives me hugs. I try to get him to do it with other people, but I guess it's our special thing, which I am totally ok with :) I am teaching Jack about kisses too, right now they are just very slobbery, but he is such a lover. I also taught Jack how to wave. It is SO cute to see him way to strangers and on Skype to his Kenner grandparents. Yesterday at the mall he was waving at EVERYONE who walked by, so cute!
Daddy- Well obviously Jack LOVES his daddy because Chris is the best dad in the world and knows how to juggle being a good father with everything else he takes on. Jack's first (and only) word is Dadda. He SCREAMS it randomly sometimes like he is saying, "Where the freak is my dad!?" We will call him during class and Jack will just babble on about his day adding dadda, dad, into the mix. It's so cute to see Jack light up when Chris gets home. What a cute bond they have.

Jack at Primary Childrens

Playing with daddy, oxygen and all.

What a FIERCE smile!

I also had to share these photos. Jack had been eyeing these cupcakes I made for the daycare kids, and I just HAD to give him one :) look at his facial expressions what a cutie!

Breakthrough!

2012-02-01T23:03:00.000-08:00

Okay personal prayer.

I have been working diligently on expanding my view and working towards experiencing the power of personal prayer. My prayers have always been answered, I will start with that. Weather it’s timely or not (in my opinion) I am always blessed constantly with the answers to my hearts desires and needs. Through faith I have found that patience is the key’ to this for me. I am NOT patient AT ALL so, this has been extra hard for me to practice’. Those answers have also always happened indirectly, and have basically been a series of events that have led to the grateful answer to a prayer. I am not saying that I hold anything against the way the Lord works, for he is perfect and I believe everything happens in his timing and for reasons we will not always understand. BUT, I have always wanted, hoped for, and prayed for matter a factly a distinct premonition from our heavenly father. I’ve always wanted that personal piece of a miracle, that uncanny, unquestionable, DIRECT line to heaven. Greedy I know…I can’t help my desires. They are true; I know miracles are constant in my life though. Jack is a living miracle on his own. I see heaven in him everyday.

Well, I had a predicament come up just recently. I was handed an opportunity to start nursing school THIS May! Wow, I mean wow...this is MY DREAM! I worked for this, I deserve this! Well, I had my interview today. It went AMAZING! I was just drooling over the school, the curriculum, and the fact that I would be working in Labor and Deliver with LIVE women having LIVE babies. I was basically a kid in a candy shop by the end of the tour and interview. Plus, I also would be bettering my family’s situation, Chris could quit his job in 18 months and I could support the family so HE could focus on school! So many scenarios and ideas where already cementing themselves into my brain. That is until I LEFT the college…and a distinct knot started to form in my stomach. The doubt and worry started to settle in everywhere and I started to have second thoughts about leaving S.L.C.C before completion. How could every piece seem to fit perfectly into my future and make me sick? That is when I prayed. I prayed to my heavenly father to help me make sense of this, I prayed out loud the entire drive home. I told him basically this decision couldn’t come over time. I needed to know now, and I would do WHATEVER he told me to do. Kinda direct right? I know…Well the bad feelings started to melt away so I headed to visit my sissy at the U of U hospital. I had to restrain myself from ambushing every nurse with questions of advice, for some reason I didn’t feel right about talking to these perfect strangers, and that is very not like me. Well, during my visit I had to take a stroll to the break room to heat up Jack’s dinner. I met a nice janitor there who was cleaning and going about his work. He asked me “How’s your day going?” a perfectly simple question to ask a stranger, but I felt the need to spill every event of my day with him. AND I DID! My worries about this nursing school, me being tired and worn out, etc. He was just so nice, and so calm and thoughtful, he said things like, “You just can’t ever stop.” And “You have to just keep going.” Things I feel the Lord would tell me himself. Then we got into the discussion of nursing schools, He then confided in ME about the school I had chosen and his aprehensions on ones he had considered. Wait, this most likely 50 year old man and I are both working towards our RN, what a coincidence! He also shocked me when he said that he had been attending S.L.C.C and was just tired of being on the waiting list. I’m thinking in my head, “Come on those are my thoughts exactly!” The last thing I remember though was him saying. “I guess I will just continue to wait and finish at S.L.C.C because it’s the right thing to do.” It wasn’t until later when I was talking to my mom and relaying this strange scenario to her that it HIT ME! I was given my answer, CLEAR AS DAY! I basically had a conversation with God through this sweet old man. I felt that power of a prayer answered rush over me and the emotion was just marvelous. He was of such great comfort to me and he will never know how truly grateful I am that he was a tool in the efforts to answer my prayers. I am so grateful to have had this expieriece and to feel 100% about turning down this opportunity. Hard decisions are best made with the Lords help. I’m just marveling that I get to write this in MY journal and share it with all of you J Pretty cool huh?

Razzi and Jack

2012-01-27T17:40:00.000-08:00

Who do you think was on the couch first?? The answer is...Jack! Razzi came right over and jumped onto the couch to snuggle next to Jack. He was worried about him rolling off I guess, what a protecter! Razzi is 14 years old and a COMPLETE sweet heart! He loves to snuggle and just generally likes to have company around. We adopted him from the Salt Lake City Animal Shelter & we love him. He reminds me of my Grandma Hughes old cat Tabby :)

Our Sick Boy..

2012-01-24T19:59:00.000-08:00

I didn't think to bring my camera with me in the rush of getting Jack prompt care (obviously). But he was SOOO dang cute in his tiny little hospital gown that I used my laptop to take a few photos, and a quick video of Jack playing with his great aunt Mindy Bullington. Mindy works just a floor below where Jack is and she came and visited him before her shift. We have already had SOOOO much support, understanding, and LOVE concerning Jack. Jack even got to Skype with his Grandma Kenner who is living in Oregon. She bought him THE cutest "Get Well Soon" toy. It's amazing to see how many people love him. Thank you for all the visitors and a BIG thank you to Cole Christensen for helping me get through the 5 HOURS in the E.R. Gosh I love you all!

Jack with Grandma who brought us dinner with love from Great Grandma

Look how sweet Jack is. He is trying SOOO hard to keep up his spirits.

Christmas 2011

2012-01-05T19:17:00.001-08:00

We had a wonderful Christmas this year, made extra special with our little Jack. We had Christmas Eve(as tradition) with the whole Kenner family and we had my family including my Grandpa and Grandma Hughes, sister Heather and brother in law Kyle, and my parents over for breakfast Christmas morning. We spent Christmas afternoon at home and later had Christmas dinner at my parents house. It was a very wonderful 2 days, Jack was SPOILED, and the only thing that could have made it any better is seeing the Harrison family and SNOW!

I also added some pictures of our trip to Temple square on the 23rd this is another family tradition we want to keep for the future :)

(Pictures Coming..)

Humble

2012-01-03T13:00:00.000-08:00

hum·ble

adj. hum·bler, hum·blest

1. Marked by meekness or modesty in behavior, attitude, or spirit; not arrogant or prideful.

2. Showing deferential or submissive respect: a humble apology.

3. Low in rank, quality, or station; unpretentious or lowly: a humble cottage.

tr.v. hum·bled, hum·bling, hum·bles

1. To curtail or destroy the pride of; humiliate.

2. To cause to be meek or modest in spirit.

3. To give a lower condition or station to; abase. See Synonyms at degrade.

Forgiveness is such a wonderful thing, a cleansing of the soul within. I am thankful this comes easy for me, after all, I want to be forgiven too.
-Love, Brittany

I love...

2011-12-22T06:42:00.000-08:00

That I talk to my Mom at least 3-10 times a day, that I see her AT LEAST 3 times a week. And that it's 7:43 AM and I've already talked to her 3 times this morning :)

And it's not that she's always calling me or I stalk her or something. It's just that we have this mother daughter relationship with understanding, give, take, and compromise that I am so grateful for. Neither one of us has to "work" at our relationship it just comes naturally (like it should, I guess). She comes over twice a week for lunch and I go over a few times during the week/weekend. She's my best friend, and I think she's at least 5 other women's best friends. She's probably THE best friend and definitely THE best Mom in the world. We occasionally' disagree, but a grudge? ha! What's that when it comes to us? It's so nice having someone who is COMPLETELY un-judgmental and who loves you COMPLETELY unconditionally, (just like Heavenly Father.) And someone you know you can be open with and have your whole world not fall apart if you disagree. We always know what is going on in each others daily lives and we never fall out of touch. It's cool too cause she has that EXTRA maternal instinct and somehow KNOWS when something is wrong or not right in my life. I'm sad for those who aren't close to their moms :( Also, she has always been my biggest supporter and closest ally & though sometimes I can sense she doesn't agree with some of my decisions she is definitely always the one cheering me on. She is the most forgiving, accepting, and loving person I know. Everyone was given the one woman on this earth that could be the best mom to THEM. I can't believe God pick Dana Marie to be mine, my mother forever. I must have done something right :) I just hope I can be a good enough mom to Jack so he actually WANTS to stay close to me when he is grown. I know I will ALWAYS want to stay close to my mother because she is just that amazing. The best part is she is this amazing with EVERYONE! She has just as good of relationship with all my sisters, her mom, my dad, her friends...I can brag because this is really ALL true.

I'm so glad Jack gets to know her too. When he sees her he lights up and gives her the most genuine smile. He likes to play with her hair, jabber to her, and stroke her face. Almost as if he's saying, " Your so pretty Grandma" and "I Love You Grandma."

I see some of her in me & I know I've inherited just a sliver of her wonderful traits and for that I am MOST grateful. I know with them I can be the best mom possible to Jack & my future children. I am the luckiest, I've had the best example of a mom first hand and I get to have her in my life everyday.

At graduation

At the Day's of 47 Rodeo

(Obviously) my 20th birthday!

Getting ready to jump out of an airplane with Chris and I for our 1 year anniversary 2009!

Thanksgiving 2009.

Snowmobile trip 2010 (pregnant with Jack).

Jack's Baby Shower

Holding my hand during labor

Visiting Jack in the NICU during a lunch break.

Halloween 2011

Keeping busy

2011-12-18T21:09:00.000-08:00

So when I'm trying to not stew or fester with my thoughts I turn to outlets that make it almost impossible to think about my worries so I can clear my head for the moment. These outlets happen to be sewing or baking.

Well, by the end of my weekend I had....

Cooked, marinated, baked, steamed and/or frozen.

15 boxes of mints

4 freezer bags of pulled pork

14 enchiladas

14 rice and chicken wraps

2 dozen homemade blueberry muffins

2 dozen homemade Banana nut muffins

& 32 breakfast burritos

My freezer is full and we have like 30 meals ready to re-heat and serve...at least I was productive during my less than happy weekend.

Things...

2011-12-16T00:53:00.000-08:00

Aren't always the way they seem.

-Brittany

Jo Jo

2011-12-15T15:14:00.000-08:00

It took me reading, "Horton Hears a Who." to finally realize something. Everyone can tell you OVER and OVER again "how awesome you are", that "your talented", that "it's not you it's them", that "your pretty", and that "your important." But you can only take those things for face value when you realize YOURSELF that they are true.

You know the part in the book where the Mayor of Who-ville finds Jo Jo carelessly playing with his yo-yo while everyone is scrambling drastically around trying to save the entire city? They needed his tiny little "yop" to break the sound barrier of that tiny spec of dust to convince everyone that they were real, that they were there, that "A person's a person, no matter how small."

Well, I'm a person I may not be small, but I am important. It took me nearly 22 years to realize how much I am and how proud I am of who I'm becoming. I wanted to share this with you all because, you know..it's nice to feel proud of yourself, it's nice to not worry about what other's may think of you. Because if they are thinking bad thoughts, well..you have no control of that. To be proud of yourself is to be proud of everything you are saying and doing. Actions definately speak louder than words, and I have always made sure my actions are parallel with my feelings and intentions. I never want to EVER feel sorry for myself or think that I have had it worse than any other person. I also don't want to think that I am more important than anybody else. These feelings can consume you and turn you into a bitter ungrateful person and I don't want to waste anytime with negative feelings. Krysten, my friend and I were talking today and she was commenting on all the craft projects I do and she said something funny..she said, "You are making the rest of us moms look bad!" We laughed and then I must have been blushing because she told me not to be embarrassed or feel bad about my talents, but to embrace them and share them with others. I have never had a problem with sharing, so of course I have always tried my best to give back to others that may not have the opportunities I have. But for some reason I've always felt ashamed when I was doing more or had more than my neighbor. I don't know why...but it's a fact. I'm glad I realized this so I can stop over analyzing my every move. Life is just too short to think ill of those treading on your heart. Embrace and surround yourself with the people who accept and love you most on this earth because heaven will only be filled with those people.

Thanks, Jo Jo!

Going backwards..

2011-12-13T18:12:00.000-08:00

Is not necessarily a BAD thing...

Today ended up being a horrible day bytheway. I had a meeting with the parents of one of my daycare families (who are going through a divorce) and I was the mediater in trying to workout some of their issues. Basically yesterday "step-dad" and biological father got into a tiff AT MY HOUSE over one rather adorable little girl. They both showed up to get her without warning and I and particullarly Chris was NOT ok with that. I called them both over to let them know that could NEVER happen again even though it was handled mostly in the driveway. I did not want to be in the middle of well, their MUCH larger issues. I was the babysitter, the caregiver, the nanny, the during the day mom, THATS IT. Things didn't end well with one side of the party...He was given "The right's to refusal" I guess and decided HE was going to be the new babysitter (he's unemployed) because his ex wife won't give him an extra day a week. Anyways, I might not be watching her anymore and I am heartbroken...and then I started to stress about our tight budget and paying for school and getting out of debt..blah blah blah blah.

The point is. Chris and I started out as a VERY poor newly married couple, we both lost our jobs within weeks of each other and snapped back from it almost instantly. Our expensive taste landed us in a very financially safe spot with two very stable jobs, insurance, a house and we just kept climbing the ladder and feeling like we needed to be better and better. Life "seemed" perfect, we have always been blessed financially and instead had to deal with other challenges and trails of faith. Then we had Jack, we are humbled more and more everyday he was is our life. He's completely changed my view on the world and the meaning of necessity. I feel like my personality has relaxed completely and I'm not so anxious all the time. I'm so moment to moment right now I could be a hippie. So today when I started' to worry if we will be able to pay the bills next month I stopped myself.

If we have to make groceries stretch a little further, take less date nights, completely cut out every vain worldly indulgence, and completely revamp our budget, we will. We have made it through a lot already, and every trail has brought us closer. So when I say "Going backwards isn't a bad thing." I mean us going back to 2008, in a shoebox apartment, with nothing but love, (Jack), and our future ahead of us it looks like heaven to me.

Eternity never looked so GOOD!

O.A.

2011-12-13T00:16:00.000-08:00

O.A...which stands for Overeaters Anonymous (Jack's pretty close to joining the club). Well, today I was brave and decided to go grocery shopping with my little Jack Jack while Chris was completing his Chemistry final.

Oh. My. Gosh. What was I thinking??? An entire store dedicated to food? With MY son Jack? Obviously you are getting the point that it was a BAD idea and will never be repeated again until I can reason with him because you are a fool if you think you can compromise with an 8 month old who is IN LOVE with FOOD! The other shoppers (all 5 of them), must have thought I was pitiful as I was trying to explain to Jack "Don't eat the produce bags," "PLEASE stop eating my grocery coupons!" or "Stop chewing through the corn meal box," and "Jack you already ate an ENTIRE container of puffs, please stop crying." Ya the list goes on and on...(keep in mind I had just given Jack 8oz of formula 5 minutes into or excursion and he was already acting like a Tasmanian Devil!) Well, I ended up at WINCO for 2 hours..I was BEYOND flustered, late to pick up Chris, and Jack was hysterical! At the check-out counter something caught my eye though, a little piece of Christmas magic for only .26 cents! Something I wish I would have found at the BEGINNING of my adventure, a candy cane. So simple and so inexpensive it blew my mind how Jekyll became Hyde in a matter of seconds! Once I got home and peeked through the back seat window this is what I found...messy, but happy :) The joys of parenthood...Chris and I dunked him in the bath-tub and our little boy went to bed so happy. I can't help, but smile at the sight of my messy little monster. Monday Monday....

I can't get over that naughty little smile!

What mom?

Content with his handy work :)

Tis the season

2011-12-06T19:40:00.000-08:00

To be jolly!

Festival of Trees with my family

I couldn't decide which picture was cuter

"Dad, stop kissing me!"

They have so much fun together

Jack playing with my earing

The different gingerbread houses were awesome!

The Weasley house!

The capitol building, UNBELIEVABLE!!!

HUNDREDS of crazy decorated trees!

And the quilts were just amazing, makes me want to learn to piece quilt.

Real gingerbread wreath

And the best family I could ever ask for

My little heart melter

He loved the lights

Our church adult Christmas dinner

I was in charge of decorating one table set for 8

My wonderful mother-in-law lent me her dishes

I even had dinner mints and little treat bags :)

Wrapping Christmas presents on a Sunday night

Jack was SO in love with the wrapping paper, he was trying to eat it and unwrap the presents as I was trying to wrap them!

Chris is a big help :)

Jack was more trouble than help, haha!

TA DA! Funny thing is only 3 of them are for Chris or I, the rest are for Jack and our extended family. I feel really good about Christmas shopping this year. I had a $100 budget for Jack and stuck to it! It did mean though that I had to stand in line for 3 hours at Toys R' Us on Black Friday...

Our first Christmas tradition: A new Christmas book to read to Jack on Christmas Eve, we also each wrote him a sweet letter and will continue to write him at the beginning of each book we give him.

We are SO excited for Christmas this year!

Dear World,

2011-12-05T05:44:00.000-08:00

He's Coming Home!! (And will be here is LESS than 72 hours!!!)

Joining the Ranks!

2011-12-01T21:23:00.000-08:00

Believe it or not, Chris has joined the ranks of bloggers! He told me today and I am still a little surprised he was so excited about it. I've read his posts and they are very cute. :) Here's the link:

http://mindofacrazyphace.blogspot.com

Making Christmas, Making Christmas, LA LA LA!

2011-11-30T10:51:00.000-08:00

Oh' Christmas Tree!

The Village my Mom has been adding to each year since getting married, I love it!

Some of the ornaments I have were my moms when she was first married, I've just updated them

Grandpa and Grandma Ewell...Miss them both

My little block nativity and Jack with Santa

Our Memory Christmas Tree

All the ornaments from Chris and my childhood

All ready for Santa

Jack loves Christmas

My curious boy

101 in 1001

2011-11-28T13:42:00.000-08:00

101 in 1001

The Mission:

Complete 101 preset tasks in a period of 1001 days. http://www.dayzeroproject.com/

The Criteria:

Tasks must be specific (i.e. no ambiguity in the wording) with a result that is either measurable or clearly defined. Tasks must also be realistic and stretching (i.e. represent some amount of work on my part).

Why 1001 Days?

Many people have created lists in the past - frequently simple goals such as New Year's resolutions. The key to beating procrastination is to set a deadline that is realistic. 1001 Days (about 2.75 years) is a better period of time than a year, because it allows you several seasons to complete the tasks, which is better for organizing and timing some tasks such as overseas trips or outdoor activities.

I don't feel like posting my entire list, because some of the things are more personal than I'd like to share here, but here's a snippet:

_______

For me:

1. Lose 50 pounds by (12/30/2012)

2. Finish my pre-requisites for Nursing school; ~~Math 1050, English 1010,~~ Bio & lab, Chem & lab, Human Anatomy & lab, Human physiology & lab

3. Go out with a friend at least once per month.

4. Get my legs waxed at least once.

For my mind:

5. Read 12 novels during 2012

• January:

• February:

• March:

• April:

• May:

• June:

• July:

• August:

• September:

• October

• November:

• December:

6. Read 12 novels during 2013

• January:

• February

• March:

• April:

• May:

• June:

• July:

• August:

• September:

• October

• November:

• December:

7. Attend four theater productions

· 1.

· 2.

· 3.

· 4.

For my creativity:

8. Make 15 quilts

9. Learn how to knit

10. Take a pottery class

11. Take a piano course

12. Learn how to read music

13. Take a photography class

For my soul:

12. Read the entire Book of Mormon from cover to cover

13. Tell myself I’m beautiful, strong, & important once a day

14. Read 5 books written by LDS authors

· 1.

· 2.

· 3.

· 4.

· 5.

15. Keep a gratitude journal every day for one month

For my health:

16. Complete five 5k races

17. Complete a 10k

18. Complete a half marathon

19. Practice yoga once per week for six months

20. Lift weights 2 times per week for six months

21. Try a Zumba class

22. Go on a walk everyday for a month

23. Stop drinking soda for one month

24. Take a multivitamin everyday for a month (to develop the habit)

For my marriage:

25. Start and Write in OUR journal everyday for a month (to develop the habit)

26. Take a picture of us together at LEAST once per month (0/33)

27. Go on a real date at LEAST once per month (0/33)

28. Go hiking together six times (0/6)

29. Attend the temple at least 20 times together (0/20)

30. Read four books on marriage/relationships (0/4)

31. Go river rafting together

32. Read an entire book together cover to cover

33. See the lights at Temple Square each Christmas (0/3)

34. Pray together once a day for 30 days to develop the habit (0/30)

35. Leave sweet LOVE notes around the house, at LEAST one a week

For my baby:

41. ~~Use cloth diapers (August to October 2011)~~

42. Keep a journal/blog of his life (update at least once per month) (1/31)

43. Take a picture of him at LEAST every single week of his life. So far, so good.

44. ~~Have professional photos taken during Jack’s first year (three times in 2011)~~

45. Read Jack “I’ll Love You Forever” everynight before bed

46. Make Jack sit through sacrament so he can learn it’s importance.

47. Teach Jack sign language to help him less frustrated with communicating and have better manners

48. Write a detailed “birth story” of to remember the experience (April 9^th, 2011).

49. Take him to feed the ducks by the canal with Great Grandma Hughes

50. Take him to the Dinosaur museum

For my wallet:

51. Stick to a preset food budget every month (0/33). I'm really bad at this.

52. Research and buy the best quality/least expensive tires for the car

53. Save at least $20 per month in our savings account

54. Convince Chris that life insurance is important and invest in it

55. Find 10 events in SLC/Provo/Park City/Boston that are free and attend them (0/10)

56. Grow a garden in 2012 and 2013

57.Get the car registered

58. Get out of debt by 8.25.2014

59. Have dinner in the space needle restaurant

60. Have thanksgiving dinner at my house

For the blog:

61. Find/create a blog layout/design that I really love

62. Update my blog at LEAST once a week.

For others:

63. Donate my hair to Locks of Love….if I can find the courage!

64. Donate a can of food for every pound of weight I lose to achieve my goal weight

65. Make a birthday cake for someone not in my family

66. Donate $1 for every item completed on this list ($0/$101)

67. Bake a treat for a random neighbor, friend once a month (0/33)

For our house:

68. Organize ALL photographs into albums

69. Continually de-clutter and donate unused items until I’m happy with our home

70. Sweep the floor every single day for a month (to get in the habit)

71. Re-paint and decorate our bedroom

72. Save up for new bedroom furniture

73. Save up for 8 more sets of our china (so I can have the entire Kenner family over for Thanksgiving)

74. Put up a new fence

For the environment:

75: Plant 3 trees.

Miscellaneous:

76. Complete this list before January 1, 2012

77. Go to Maryland

78. Learn to change a car tire

79. Have wills drawn up for both Chris and me

80. Renew my driver’s license

81. Go to the Grand Canyon

82. ~~Carve pumpkins for Halloween~~ (2011)

83. Say “yes” to something big that I would normally say “no” to

84. Mail out Christmas cards in 2011,2012, & 2013

85. ~~Start a new family tradition with Jack~~ ( A new Christmas ornament every year, Nov 28,2011)

Other:

86: Do the Dirty Dash with Chris

87: Give 20 unsolicited, random compliments.

88. Find a stylist and get a haircut that I love (

89.

_______

Occasionally I might post things about my progress or success in achieving the things on my list. My start date is November 28, 2011, and my end date is August 25, 2012. (Fingers crossed) of this ambitious list.

I'm open to changing/altering/adding to my list, so if you have any suggestions (especially in the "for others" section -- I have more than I posted here, but I still feel like that section may be a little lacking) please feel free to say so in the comments.

Would any of you ever consider doing something like this, too?

Jack's Christmas Pictures

2011-11-26T23:13:00.000-08:00

My boy is such a ham! He has the sweetest smile and we got really good pictures taken for Christmas! Check them out HERE!

Ewell Family Pictures

2011-11-23T12:38:00.001-08:00

This is the first time in YEARS that we have gotten professional pictures taken! I LOVE them, especially the ones of Jack and his cousing Wesley and the ones of me and the girls :)

Which one is cutest?

2011-11-16T11:43:00.000-08:00

Shutterfly is having an awesome deal that ends today, PLUS I have a $20 coupon, help me out. Which one is cutest?

Snowflakes Ribbon Christmas Card

Make unique Christmas cards this year at Shutterfly.com.

View the entire collection of cards.

Wishing You Merry Christmas Card

Find unique and Personalized Christmas cards at Shutterfly.com.

View the entire collection of cards.

This one also has 3 cute pictures on the back as well.

With Love Christmas Card

Turn your favorite photos into personalized Christmas cards.

View the entire collection of cards.

Good News!

2011-11-11T23:25:00.000-08:00

Chris was officially accepted into the University of Utah for Spring 2012!!! Hooray, we will finally be starting the next step on our journey...gosh it feels good! I am SO proud of him! He graduates from SLCC in just a month in a half! Go Utes!

*UPDATE* Chris just signed up for orientation and academic advising for the U next monday!!! THIS IS REAL!!! OH GOODNESS!!!

Jack: 7 months old

2011-11-11T15:34:00.000-08:00

I can't believe Jack used to be this tiny....

(Just 1 day old, check out this music video)

AND NOW!

Chug, chug, chug, chug!

Crazy grandpa!

He will KILL me one day for this picture!

Grandma Ewell took Jack Jack to get his shots, he is such a trooper!

The First snow!

Look at that drool!

Out to dinner with Grandma and Grandpa Ewell

Matching ties from Auntie Heather and Mommy

Great-Grandma Hughes and Grandma Ewell's Birthday party

He just thinks his Holman cousins are the greatest!

Gosh he loves his Grandpa Ewell!

Daddy's boy!

Jack really does think Kyle is THE coolest person ever!

Cutest picture! All the Kenner Grand-babies together, they have the best Grandma and Papa around!

Cute cousins

Jack's new favorite food, Gerber cheese puffs!
snacking on cheese puffs again!

(yes he's always eating...)

Jack now weighs 20.5 pounds (87th percentile) and is 27 inches long (85th percentile) he LOVES to eat. He will eat anything, nothing is yucky to him, he is the most scrumptious boy around, we love him to pieces. He can now sit up on his own, and can roll from one side of the room to the next (kind of like rolling around in a barrel). He LOVES bath time, and thinks his daddy is THE coolest person ever. Jack can SCREAM, he's known about his voice for sometime now but besides babbling he WILL tell you how he feels with screams and blowing bubbles. He already has a very infectious personality. We love hime to the moon and back. Our mush is THE mushiest. Right now he has a bit of a cold, so he has been super cuddly, but despite not feeling well he is still a sweetheart.

Jack Loves

As mentioned before, FOOD.
To jump and jump and jump in his jumper
To listen to me read stories at bedtime, (he's started falling asleep right before the last page.)
His bed, he giggle and laughs AS SOON as we place him in there at bedtime (not so much at nap time.)
All his grandma's and grandpa's, I don't have ANY pictures of grandma and grandpa Kenner with him this month :( I know papa Kenner does, so I will have to get some from him ASAP!
His puppy Henry, he belly laughs at his presence
Jesus, he's still so close to heaven! He will find a picture at church, in our home, or a family members home of Jesus and he just LOCKS his eyes onto him. I know he knows him still, I bet they were best friends in heaven.

Jack now can:

Sit up on his own.
Feed himself puffs.
Roll around like a ball on the floor.
Stand up with little help.
Reach for the person who he desires attention from.
Pat his hands together.
"Give high fives."
Melt strangers hearts...(not that he couldn't before!)

Jack's First Halloween

2011-11-02T21:09:00.000-07:00

Halloween night we spent 45 minutes SEARCHING and SEARCHING for Jack's Halloween costume. It had been misplaced and I was hysterical thinking I had gone to all the trouble to make it and he wasn't going to get to wear it that night. Fortunately, it was found..we were just an hour and 15 minutes late to my Grandmas Halloween party :( We went to 4 houses trick-or-treating with my mom in my Grandma's neighborhood just to show off our cute panda bear and then we went to Grandma Kenner's house so they could get some cuddles and see a few of Chris old neighbors, unfortunately our camera died. It was a fun night, but certainly not as fun as it will be once he is older and actually gets it, haha.

All ready to go!

The Family :) (the only picture we have...and I am making a weird face of coarse!)

Cousin love

Daddy and Jack

Trick-or-Treating

Happy boy

He fell asleep AS SOON as Grandma Ewell held him

This is the same spot me and my sisters got our pictures taken in our costumes growing up :)

My Wednesday night

2011-10-26T21:17:00.000-07:00

Somehow, for reasons I have know idea how or why my husband knows without me even saying anything EXACTLY what I need. Tonight it was filled with my favorites, strawberries and whipped cream, colorful gerber daisies, Popcornopolis' kettle corn, and watching Lion King alone. I've been feeling a little overwhelmed lately and worn out, he surprised me tonight after getting home from class. What a wonderful way to celebrate a Wednesday :)

Kenner Family Pictures

2011-10-26T09:23:00.000-07:00

Here are some of my favorites!

Oh my goodness...my boy is scrumptious!

Happy Halloween!

2011-10-25T20:22:00.000-07:00

My mom always got our pictures taken when we were little in our Halloween costumes, so I wanted to keep that tradition going. I also started one of my own though :) I made/sewed Jack's costume and I plan on doing it for all my kids until they are 12 years old. I've staked out a wall in my house and plan on putting only Halloween portraits there. PLUS Kiddie Kandids is having a sale where you get 25 pictures for only $7.99!! Couldn't pass it up!

Love, Jack and Family

(If you want to take a look at the rest of Jack's Halloween photos go to MyOnlinePortraits.com. Our session number is 104510 and the password is TMXNV)

Jack 6 months...

2011-10-10T17:19:00.000-07:00

It's here...that dreaded half year mark crept up WAY too fast! My baby is growing up and there is nothing I can do to stop it! I'll I can do is watch and try and not miss a second of him growing, changing, and learning. He. Is. Perfect. Perfect for our family. He brings so much joy and smiles and love into our family and I am so happy he made it here safely into our arms. It makes me wonder why anybody said wait to have children, parenthood IS the greatest! Jack is 25 inches tall 65th percentile, and weighs 18.5 pounds 75th percentile (ya he lost a little weight, all that moving!) Some new things about jack....

Jack can:

almost sit up on his own.
roll from front to back, back to front over and over and over again! He is quite the wiggle monster and is even starting to scoot up onto his knees and somehow move from one side of the carpet to the other! Oh no! crawling is SO close!
talk, he's basically talking already. Yeah yeah, none of it makes sense, but it's nice to have someone to carry a conversation with during the day!
move his hands and arms on command, he is starting to become more coordinated, and LOVES to play with his daddies facial hair and pat our faces. I sometimes find him playing with random object he grabs as I am walking with him. Like the hanger he found at target or a piece of mail he grabbed as I was leaning over the counter.
he REALLY smiles, almost on command now :) his giggle is contagious.
makes THE goofiest faces..he definitely gets this from his daddy

Jack's favorite...

Foods are squash and pears.
Toy is a hamburger
Person..ME :)
Book is "My big animal book."
Song "Five Little Monkey's" only when sung by his Auntie Heather

*Enjoy these pics :) I took his 6 month photos...eh they are "ok".

The hat Grandma Kenner had made for Jack at Disneyland!

he can't wait for Disneyland next Christmas Gma and Gpa Kenner!Auntie Ash sure gets Jack THE cutest clothes!

Babies are always happier...NAKED!

jack with his auntie nennie

at daddies surprise party!

I hate shopping!

in the cute outfit from auntie ash

*Six month pictures*

Oh by the way...

2011-10-06T07:45:00.000-07:00

I started a daycare :) http://mrsbrittschildcare.blogspot.com/ check it out! more photos to come!

Deals!! :)

2011-10-05T10:49:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I finally went out and got Jack some winter clothes! Good thing too because today was VERY chilly and it was nice having long sleeves and pants for his morning walk. I ended up going to target instead of Gap because I couldn't stomache the $150 for 3 pairs of pants and 7 shirts (on the clearence wrack). INSTEAD I got Jack 10 shirts, 5 pairs of pants, 6 pairs of socks, 2 crib mats (to keep his sheets dry), and me a new yoga top for all under $80! Yipee! Each clothing item ended up being less than $5 dollars! I <3 Target!

Our Family is "Avoiding Degrading Media Influences"

2011-10-04T15:07:00.000-07:00

What happened to picking up the phone and talking with someone about their day, or actually practicing a friendship by actually doing something fun with them IN PERSON? Well I am about to find out :) I have had "cyber friendships" for far too long and I am ready to nurture and work on these relationships with all of you in person. I deleted my Facebook for good. It was an addiction and a serious crutch that I used to tell people about my life and how I feel. It also caused unnecessary arguments and hurt feelings, because nobody really knows a persons intent through "status updates" or "comments". I am hoping you will all forgive me for neglecting to nurture all of my relationships with you and I look forward to this new change.

I Love Tina

2011-10-03T09:04:00.000-07:00

I made Jack this shirt for his great (great meaning awesome) auntie Tina's birthday. He was her birthday present for the evening, what a mush!

Cutest picture ever!

This picture of my son with his cousins actually brings tear to my eyes, I am so glad he gets to grow up knowing them :)

Jack without a doubt LOVES his grandpa Ewell, they have a special relationship because my dad will really get on the floor and play with him and go out of his way to make Jack smile. I am grateful to live so close to them and see Jack playing with my daddy, special moments like these are the ones I will cherish forever.

October 28th Craft Night!

2011-10-02T12:46:00.000-07:00

Last month craft night we did the "Witch and Boo" decorations, if you check out my General Conference Weekend post you can see pictures. We being my mom and I because nobody else nailed down if they wanted to do it or gave me their money haha. It was still fun though and I am so glad my Mom made sure to push me to keep doing it because I REALLY like crafting and its fun doing ONE thing a month that's all for myself :) So if you REALLY want to join me this month keep in touch because I have to order the projects in bulk (meaning more than 4) two weeks ahead of time if there is a lot of people. So vote on your favorite project and I will list the prices below. For the block heads keep in mind you can mix and match which ones you want to do, you don't have to do them all :)

Give Thanks Turkey: $12.00

Block Heads:

Indian $5.00

Girl Pilgrim $5.00

Pumpkin $3.00

Boy Pilgrim $7.00

Turkey

$5.00

Set Total: $25.00

Pilgrims: $12.00

Indians: $14.00

General Conference Weekend

2011-10-02T10:29:00.000-07:00

Our family really needed conference this week, It brought so many answered prayers and good thoughts and feeling into our home. We watched all 4 sessions Saturday and Sunday, and Chris went to the Priesthood session with his Dad and brother in-law Cole Saturday night. Saturday morning we woke up early and watched the first session in our family room and then spent the day at my parents house watching the second Saturday session while my dad played on the floor with Jack and my Mom and I painted our Halloween crafts. It was soooo much fun my Mom kept commenting on how she must have "lost her touch" at crafting, but as you can see that is not the case AT ALL. Her "Boo" decoration turned out adorable! I crafted/painted the "Witch" Sign, I LOVE it. :) I want to do this every conference session! Saturday night I hung out with the Kenner ladies at our house, it was a nice low key evening and I made spaghetti for dinner and we watched "You Again" which was hilarious! Sunday morning we made sure to wake up on time and played in the family room with Jack while listening and watching conference. The second session is coming up and we plan on just staying home and being together as a family :) what a wonderful blessing General Conference is, I feel so blessed it is so accessible to our family and it is of great need to every one of us. It is so wonderful that we can hear not only from the wonderful leaders of our church, but given insight from our Heavenly father personally twice a year. I will never take it for granted again.

On a side note, here are some other crafts I've completed this month! Super Saturday in my ward was a few weeks ago and I was amazed that I actually went home with a finished product :)

Texas: Sunday & Monday

2011-09-28T10:01:00.000-07:00

Sunday September 18th: We all woke up sunday morning, got spruced up and headed to Ash and Phils ward. Let me just say...I you haven't seen babies until you have gone to their ward! There were tons! Jack and Wes were of coarse restless all through church, but we all made it home in one piece. Ash and Phil made stir fry for dinner :) YUM! And the rest of the night we just relaxed and enjoyed one another's company.

Monday September 19th: We all decided upon The Galleria for Monday's outing. Let me tell ya, everything really IS bigger in Texas! BIGGEST mall I have EVER been to or heard of for that matter! More than 375 restaurants, stores, and even a hotel inside! We spent over 5 hours inside and Chris and I (mostly me) did some serious vacation shopping. I think I spent all my vacation money there haha. After shopping we headed to Lupe Tortilla! Really, best mexican food EVER! I sure wish they had one in UT.

Jack SOOO excited about his new hamburger toy

Shopping is tiring stuff

at the food court with my sweet boy

Wes being a goof

Ya..these are legos...you can buy them by the pound

The damage

at Lupe Tortilla

The boys (and rosie) playing

Wes checkin out Jack's binky

Jack playing with his new toy

Houston Texas with the Harrison's

2011-09-22T08:47:00.000-07:00

Chris, Jack, & I took our family vacation to Houston Texas this past weekend to spend 6 days, 5 nights with my sister Ashlee and the whole Harrison family. They live in North-Western Texas in a city called Tomball. Jack got to meet his uncle Phil for the first time and play with his cousin Wesley everyday. Wes and Jack are almost exactly 6 months apart and Wes is the closest cousin to Jack's age. It was so fun watching them interact and play and my sis and I talked about how fun it will be having them grow up together and be in the same grade when they go to school. We had SO much fun and took A LOT of pictures. Because we took so many pictures I am going to blog 2 days of the trip at a time. Here is Friday and Saturday!

Friday September 16th: I was very frazzled friday morning and SOOOO worried I was going to miss packing something we needed(btw we forgot our toothbrushes and had to make a stop at Walgreens) my mom had offered to pick us up and take us to the airport and we were pleasantly surprised when my dad showed up to pick us up as well! For those of you that don't know, my dad had been in Denver CO for 6 months helping at a plant there. We got everything into the car and raced to the airport. We were sure to pack smart because with the diaper bag and 20 pound baby on my hip it was going to be a feat to make it onto the plane. Jack was and ANGEL he slept the entire flight and woke up happy and gabbing and making eyes at all the flight attendants he was pretty much the center of attention. We arrived at the Houston airport at around 6:20pm and Ash and Wes picked us up. Phil and Ash had dinner already for us when we got to their house. Yummy home made taquitos! Jack and Wes got to play for a little while before they went to bed and me and Chris stayed up for a little while and chatted with Ash and Phil.

Jack's first plain ride, couldn't have done it without Chris!

My boys asleep on the plain

This is the outfit I put him in on our way to Houston...3 outfits later we arrived!

Wes and Jack "playing" for the first time, Wes was soooo excited to play with Jack

My sweet boy

Saturday September 17th: We woke early and got ready to go to Galveston Beach. It was a B-E-A-Utiful day and I am still so happy we decided to venture out there for the day. Jack got to put his feet in the ocean (and his whole body for that matter) for the first time! Wesley enjoyed crawling all around the beach and getting completely muddy and sandy from head toe. Ash and I just chilled on the beach while Chris and Phil played in the waves. It was a beautiful day, warm with a small breeze. After the beach we headed home, showered and went to SpringCreek BBQ it was DELICIOUS! After BBQ we let the boys play for a little and Wesley opened up his b-day present from us since won't be able to make it to his 1st birthday. After they went to bed we ate Bluebell ice cream...I think I gained 3 pounds alone that was attributed to that heavenly ice cream!

The boys fell asleep on our way there

Sisters and our boys

Daddy and his boy

Spring Creek BBQ

I can only imagine Wesley on his actual birthday, paper will be flying!

Jack 5 months

2011-09-22T07:45:00.000-07:00

Jack of course is still growing and growing, he has made a lot of "firsts" this month and is still the heart of our home and family :) Jack now weighs 19.2 pounds! He has the most delicious thighs :)

Jack ate his first bowl of rice cereal this month and his first jar of baby food. He now enjoys carrots, peas, sweet potatoes, applesauce, bananas, and pears on a weekly bases. It is soooo funny feeding him! If your not fast enough he will sure let you know with his screams and grunts of disapproval, he is quite the character and DEFINITELY has a mind of his own. Jack had his first trip to the UT aquarium this month with his aunties and grandma Kenner, he also had his first trip bowling with the Kenner fam, he was an angel on both outings and really enjoyed the lights at the bowling alley. Jack can now roll over from his belly to his back, and is SO close to rolling from his back to his belly (that arm of his just continues to get in the way, darn arm!) Jack has the most infectuous giggle he will just laugh and laugh and he is VERY ticklesh too. My favorite thing about Jack these days is his voice. He will just hang out on his play mat and talk, talk, talk, talk , talk, talk, TALK! I never knew a 5 months old could be so vocal! He keeps me busy and I am enjoying every minute I have helping him grow and learn. I love being his mommy and wish time would just stand still, Chris and I are so completely smitten with this little boy of ours :)

Jack loves:

tummy time, (finally!)
to have his blanket on his head
to take his nightly bath, it's his favorite part of the day
to eat, and eat....and eat
to cuddle, we are so lucky we have a snuggle boy
to play with his dad, it's amazing to watch him light up when Chris is around
to be outside
to be sung to, no matter how awful my voice is haha
to read books with mom and dad, he is even starting to turn the pages (in no particular order of course)

*some of the pictures wouldn't let me rotate them*

hang in out in his fuzzi bunz

At the Park

Sara Lee ad :)

I just love this picture...I don't want my baby to grow up!

Jack with his cousin Max

Jack at the aquarium, seeing how he "measures up" to a baby penguin.

Jack with Grandpa Kenner bowling

Jack and Daddy bowling

haha see what i told you!

Jack and Mommy at the bowling alley

hang in out with dad

Before and After Photos

2011-09-13T20:18:00.000-07:00

Chris surprised me with a day at The Spa Club. He's too good to me :) Here are some before and after photos (as requested by my mamma.)

Before: After:
Before:
After:

Craft Night!

2011-09-09T10:00:00.000-07:00

Hi family and friends! I have been trying to think of something I could do once a month to get together with friends and family for a girls night. I REALLY love crafting, but get bored with scrapbooking so I wanted to start a Wood Connection Craft Night. Each month I will put pictures of three crafts I want to do and you all can do the voting on the one you want :) Which ever craft wins for the month is the one we will do! Every craft night will be held the last friday of the month at 6:00pm at my house. I will provide snacks and everyone can bring a little something to share. I don't have very many seasonal decorations (besides Christmas) in my house so this will also help us all slowly acquire unique household decorations at little cost. This will be so fun! Now lets start the voting for Semptember 30th Craft Night it's Halloween themed!

#1 $12.00#2 $22.00
#3 $16.00

VOTE NOW!

Jack Jack

2011-09-06T11:16:00.000-07:00

So yesterday morning I had an huge urge to sew, at 6am...
Sewing is my only known stress reliever and I was feeling well, CONSUMED. So I decided to make jack jack a cute bib :) I used all scraps and things I already had in my craft room so it was FREE (another known stress reliever.) I found those "Made with love by mom" tags at Joann's I'm going to make it a habit of always attaching one onto all the homemade things I make for our family. Here is Jack modeling said bib. Oh and there are a few other pics I have taken it the past few days.

"Mom, it's 6 in the morning!"

"Okay, I'm awake now." And still adorable!

Underwear model. (He's taking pointers from his cousin Mason)

Oh husband!?!

2011-09-06T10:53:00.000-07:00

Conversation between me and Chris TWO days ago:

(me) "Hey honey I'm going to be receiving a package here soon DON'T open it NO MATTER WHAT!"

(chris) "Don't worry, I won't :)"

Conversation between me and Chris Today:

(chris) "Hey you got a package (brings in OPENED package.)"

(me) "Remember how I told you NOT TO open the package?!?"

(chris) "Oh...oh ya."

(me) Happy Anniversary honey...

At least he was surprised! Happy Husband with HUGE soft minky blanket,(he's been asking for one for a long time now, and I haven't mastered sewing the edges of the shifty material yet.)

Can't sleep

2011-09-05T22:23:00.000-07:00

I really miss my Maddie...I've been crying all day and night. I can't sleep, I was so used to her warm body in-between the covers and her curled up behind my knees. This is worse than a dog dying...because its hard knowing she's still out there, without me, me without her. Chris keeps assuring me it was the right decision, but I don't know if I feel that way anymore. Guess it doesn't really matter how I feel though right? It's too late now.

FuzziBunz

2011-09-04T22:33:00.000-07:00

Yes Yes, I did it. :) I was converted into a cloth diapering mommy! We are very happy with this new change and we calculated all that we will be saving! TONS I tell you TONS!! With the brand we chose and the fact that we want more children, never buying disposable diapers again is a MEGA PLUS. You might not agree with me, but I promise to never try and change your view or thoughts on the subject. It was just the path we went and one we are happy with. Here is our CHUNK, he is so happy with his soft fuzzy bum, plus no red bum or diaper rash & I would have to add doesn't he look A-d-o-r-a-b-l-e! We sure love him..

Look at those thighs!!!!

Sad day...

2011-09-03T23:54:00.000-07:00

Well...It was a sad day for the Kenner family today...we are now PET-LESS. Friday morning we got in trouble with the city for our naughty puppy Maddie getting out from under our fence and roaming the neighborhood (AGAIN). Someone finally called animal control and we were cited a $200 ticket, I got my way out of it though (phew!) And the officer on duty said if there is nothing we can do to contain her she will eventually be picked up and put in a shelter and put down...We did NOT want that, so-we found her a more suitable home. An older couple who live in North Salt lake. They have a fully fenced yard (that is dog proof) and can give her the attention she needs since they are home all day and retired. I am sad, but I know it was the right thing to do. Maddie was to the point where we were getting calls EVERYDAY from random neighbors informing us that they either had our dog or saw her crossing the street. She had it SO good though! My mom made me feel better though, she said once dog's get it into their systems to "flee" they can't stop. That's how our dog Angel was I guess growing up. I sure hope Maddie is happy and treated well. She was my baby for 3 years and I will miss her but cherish her memories.

Chole. She's another story. Just ask ANYONE, she was an EVIL cat. The last straw was one of our renters J.C was walking past her minding his own business and she started hissing and attacked him. We didn't want that type of animal with an unpredictable behavior in our home. TOO scary for Jack and our future children. She now resides in a military family home with NO kids I sure home they can help her find peace..

The house is so quiet now...(it is 1:05 am though) I miss all the pitter patters, and the quirks and personality they added to the family. We hope we can find more luck with our next pet :(

The adventures of Jack and Jake

2011-08-31T10:56:00.000-07:00

Well, I have a new job these days..not only am I a mommy to my cute lil Jack, (lil is an understatement) but I am now watching this little cutie pie 5 days a week! His name is Jake. He is 6 months old and a very active baby! I think he will really help Jack "catch up" and it is so fun to see the curiosity they have for each other :)

Jack didn't like Jake mauling him.

I think Jake was confused as to why it was so hard for Jack to hold his head up.

Jack kept looking to me for reassurance, I think he was a little nervous.

Rice cereal and Sweet Potatoes time!

Jake didn't like it....

Jack ate two jars full AND his rice cereal..chunk

Heather's Birthday :)

2011-08-30T11:55:00.001-07:00

We celebrated my sissy Heather's Birthday on Sunday...she's 27!! WOW, she is getting kinda OLD. Last year for her birthday I gave her a coupon for a customized quilt. It took her about 8 months to figure out what she wanted the quilt to look like and a few extra months to get the fabric for it. Basically it took a YEAR to get the quilt into the beginning stages of being ready to be cut and sewn. For her birthday this year I finished it and I am quite pleased with the end result. But I also took it to the quilt shop to be hand quilted with a stars design and professionally bound. The back of the quilt is this really soft brown minky fabric and the binding is blue minky. I know she has this quilt in mind for her first son so I wanted it to be perfect. I also made her a cute birthday cake, I looked up a design online (mine didn't turn out quite as good..oh well) love you Heath, Happy 27th Birthday! <3 Britt

Rice Cereal

2011-08-29T20:03:00.000-07:00

Today Jack had Rice Cereal for the first time! It was hilarious! He looked a little worried in the beginning and I'm pretty sure he thought I was trying to poison him or something, but he ended up loving it and he ate the entire bowl full! Here are some fun pictures from beginning to end.

Family Planning...or lack there of Part 1

2011-08-25T10:09:00.000-07:00

Hello Family and Friends...and neighbors, and lady I just met on the street, and mailman, and past co-workers, and dog that lives next door. Hi.How.Are ya? Yes, yes I'm fine. How old is my son? He's 20 weeks. How many kids do I want? A million. (Insert crazy laughter here) No. no. I'm serious, notice how I'm NOT laughing...

Am I a perfect mother? Ha! HEEEELL no! (Please excuse my temporarily foul mouth, there really was no other word to fully get across my feelings on the situation.) I mean...just yesterday I was that lady at Target with the little baby wearing no pants, with only a T-shirt and Blue leopard socks on. Yes, that was me :) But I love my Jack and I will always make sure that he never goes without food, clothes (he WAS wearing a shirt at least...), and most importantly love. I know Jack will NEVER feel unloved, yes I'm a goof and make up a song for every occurrence of the day. Example, "Bugger snatcher, bugger snatcher, he's coming to eat your buggers!" and my children might sometimes not want to be seen in public with me, and I sometimes have to leave the house ALONE for a few hours to prevent myself from going crazy...Again. BUT I love this life I was given, I love the craziness, the perpetual routine, the never-ending piles of laundry, the spit-up, the poop, the changing of outfits 5 times a day, the mummy tummy, the lack of sleep, etc..There is so many GOOD/GREAT/AMAZING things about raising a child that even the stinky things like poopy diapers doesn't make the "Bad List". Because in my book there really ISN'T a "Bad List", the GOOD/GREAT/AMAZING things out way the temporarily unpleasant things SOOOOO MUCH that the thought doesn't even begin to cross my mind as being "bad."

Next. I wish I could freeze time to the moments of complete and utter joy when I'm holding my son, watching him take in the world with his bright blue eyes, nothing else really mattering. You know, those moments were his smiles and cuddles melt your worries about the day passing you by, "Because you know you hold tomorrow tightly in your arms." Motherhood/parenthood is the greatest thing God gave us and the best mother I know is my sister Heather. She has 5 boys and 7 girls. She is the BEST example of what a mother should be and continues to teach me everyday what kind of woman/mother I need to strive to become. She is a mother to us all, I love you sis. And all your nieces and nephews LOVE you!

Back the beginning. How many kids do I want? A million. What's my plan? I don't have one. When do I want my next child? Yesterday.

So the next time a crazy stranger (or co-worker or family member) says I'm "waisting my adolescence" (and I quote!) on being a young married mother, you and myself will know where I stand :)

Oh! And for the record I bought Jack some pants :)

My Husband

2011-08-19T12:17:00.000-07:00

I don't know all the sweet things YOUR husband does for you, but let me tell you a little bit about MY husband and all the reasons why I'm the luckiest. First of all, he would do anything for me...no really when I say that I mean honestly NO MATTER WHAT, my Christopher would move mountains just to make me laugh or smile. He makes me feel like everything I do is perfect. If I do the simplest tasks like the dishes, fold laundry, or have dinner ready for him when he gets home he does everything he can to make me feel like the "perfect wife." Who knew just taking pride in your home could make you feel like a super-hero? Chris is a hard worker, he has worked at a job he absolutely hates for over 3 years now to support our family and get him self through school. He is so close to the next chapter of his degree and I am so very proud of him. I love knowing I can count on him to "get the job done." No matter what the task is I know my honey can do it, and it's nice to know Jack and I will never go without, because we have the husband and dad we need.

Chris can make me laugh, and laugh, and laugh-and laugh-and laugh! I LOVE that we can be complete airheads together and that he loves all my quirks and me his :) I once (actually I ask him it all the time, cause I still don't know how i got so lucky to be his forever!) asked Chris, "Why did you pick me?" his response, "Because you needed me." I'm sure I gave him a disappointed look because he backed up and said, " No Brittany you REALLY needed me." He said I was the first person in his life to make him feel truly loved and needed. He said it's hard to love someone when you feel completely at their mercy and that when he met me he KNEW I was his lady because we "bended in the wind together." We were able to compliment each other in ways we never imagined. What I lacked he gained, vise-versa. It was like we were made for each other. And I truly believe that. Some people don't belive in sole-mates, and maybe I never used to either. But, Chris broke all rules and I have learned to believe other-wise.

Last, Chris makes me feel beautiful, truly one of a kind. Us women are all hard on ourselves...way way way too hard. And you'd think that because I realize that I wouldn't be hard on myself right? Wrong! Yes, yes I just had a baby and those extra 20 pounds won't just fall off right away, but they are still there...But how is it that despite all this Chris can truly make me feel sexy and he can sometimes even if it's just for half a second make me feel like the most beautiful girl in the world. I think that's because when you are loved without vain and when someone puts every effort possible into loving you, you are the most beautiful person in the world, because you are to them. And that is how Chris makes me feel :)

This song describes EXACTLY to a T our life together. From the me wearing nothing but his t-shirt to the extra 5 or so pounds I don't want him to notice. We have shared so much together the past nearly 3 years and I want him to know how loved he is. Thanks for always making me feel beautiful Chris, Inside and out. This song was written for us, I just KNOW it :)

Oh- and know matter what grade you get on your math test I'm proud of you honey, and will support you through anything you take on. Just know that.

Jack 3 Months..and 4 Months

2011-08-09T09:05:00.000-07:00

3 Months old!!
Wow what a big boy we have on our hands these days! He has grow in leaps and bounds and we are so proud of our efforts turing out such a handsome, healthy, happy little boy :)

Jack: Weight 13.6 pounds, 52% percentile. Height 24 3\4 inches, 61% percentile! He caught up fast!

Jack now:
• Smiles :)
• Kick, kick, kicks, his feet!
• Looks all around, (his head is getting so strong!)
• Can focus on your face, and watches my every move!
• DOESN'T like it when I put him down...we are working on that
• HATES tummy time…
• Thinks fireworks are awesome
• Has earned his camping patch
• LOVES to be carried in the Baby Bjorn
• Babbles at the little bug toys hanging from his car seat
• Has learned to appreciate the comfort of his binky
• And LOVES his mommy and daddy

I'M SO CHUBBY!

Mommy, ready for her first day back to work....

Happy Father's Day daddy!! Hope you like your Jersey!

Swimming with Mommy, what a little fish!

Swimming is hard work!

My favorite outfit on Jack, and my favorite boys :D

Ready for the festivities

4th of July cutie

In the camping chair from auntie Heather

Happy Camper :)

All ready for bed, tucked in between mom and dad. He thought camping was so-crazy-fun!

Taking a rest after taking a dip with mommy in Payson lake

Jack 4 Months old!

Wow! Time is going by WAAAAAAY to fast :( My baby is already looking more and more like a BIG boy...Some new changes in our life inclue...ME being a new full-time mom!! I put my two week's in the middle of July and my last day was August 5th. It was a VERY hard, though-out decision, and it took A LOT of faith to make that leap...But we KNOW it was the right choice and we haven't looked back :)

Jack: Weight 16.3 pounds, 77% percentile. Height 25 Inches, 65% percentile. WHAT A BIG BOY!! He is already wearing 9 month clothes and bursting at the seams!

Jack can now:
• SCREAM…even through his binky
• Laugh and giggle
• Love’s to chat us up
• Has found his hands, and my hair…
• Still HATES tummy time
• Has started to cry with tears 
• Sleeps at least 10 hours at night!! ( He had two nights this month where he woke up at 3am, but other than that he is good sleeper.)
• Sit up in his bumbo
• LOVES bath time!
• REALLY loves his Jumperoo
• Is a Rodeo Champ!
• Is desperately in LOVE with his blankey
• Is a very good cuddler
• Melts Mommy and Daddy’s heart daily

#1 Cowboy

I want to eat him...

Had to sport the Chuck Taylors

Thanks mom and daad for the fun time at the rodeo! Your grandsons LOVE you!

Oh baby! What lucky boys, posing with the rodeo queens!

Riding bulls is sure tiring...

"Put em' up!"

Frog prince, the robe from cousin? Lisa ( I think she's his cousin..)

The sad shots he got on his "thunder thighs"
my sweetheart
his new toy!
look at his sweet face!
all tuckered out!
He thought the froggy was so cool!
Happy boy :)
Trying out all the different jumpers at the store, it was the froggy that beat them all.
He's so delicious!
Without a doubt the sweetest bright-eyed face EVER!
Blowout...
He thinks he's so big :(

Jack 2 months!

2011-06-14T09:14:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness! I can't believe Jack is 2 months old! It went by waaaaay too fast!

In the last month Jack:

Gained 3 pounds!

Stares at everything, and can concentrate better on your face

Goes to great lengths to turn is head and wiggle so he can see me if i'm walking by

Growls, grunts, huffs, puffs, squeals, shrieks, and is about the noisiest baby in the world

Goes to bed at 9:30 everynight and only wakes up once at around 4 :)

Prefers me above all :D

Wants to be held ALLLLLL the time!

Doesn't like tummy time yet

Is learning to like his his binkie

Thinks daddy is so much fun

Blows bubbles and drools all day

And is THE cutest, sweetest, cuddliest baby in the WORLD!

Wordless Wednesday: MEAN Momma!

2011-06-09T11:44:00.000-07:00

New Blog

2011-06-08T13:23:00.001-07:00

I started a new blog, check it out! http://brittanysfinallylosingit.blogspot.com

Cake Balls

2011-06-01T20:41:00.000-07:00

Today my mommy and I had a BLAST making cake balls for Jack's blessing on Sunday. We really enjoyed decorating them all and had fun chatting. I love my mommy she's definately my bestest friend. Thanks for the great cake ball lesson Ashlee (:

You can buy this book at Barnes & Noble :)

Decorating :)

2011-05-31T17:54:00.001-07:00

Well, we were finally able to decorate our house the way WE wanted it and with OUR own furniture. It feels sooooo good to have everything in our home be ours :) Here are some pictures...thanks Ashlee and mom for all the great ideas and all the planning we did I couldn't be happier with the way it all turned out!

KITCHEN

FRONT ROOM

My Boy :)

2011-05-30T10:59:00.000-07:00

Cute hat from Jen and Mir family Little train conductor

Shirt from auntie ash

Asleep on the Thomas train ride

Thug bb

It's true.

Soooo hansome
omgoodness
Jack with anorexic Mr. Topham hatt
thinking...
Up, Up, and Away!

Photo Book

2011-05-18T17:20:00.001-07:00

Click here to view this photo book larger

Catch Up

2011-05-12T11:56:00.000-07:00

Here is a catch up on some recent events :)

Chris and I spent Mother's Day weekend with the Kenner Family. It was so much fun! The Saturday before we all did the Race For The Cure to honor Ronda being cancer FREE for 3 1/2 years!!! Jack was an angel, we even got him a little sun hat to wear on the 3 mile walk. (We had to purchase it at Build a Bear because his head is so stinking tiny!)

Then on Mother's Day Chris woke me up with the cutest little package, Jack cuddling me on my belly. Boy, it feels GREAT to be a mommy! Chris surprised me with the HOTTEST shoes ever, a pair of earrings and matching necklace, and....a TREADMILL!!! I was shocked, I have been complaining lately about how much I want to get into shape and how much I REALLLLY wanted a treadmill...and guess what? He really does listen :) Then we headed over to Chris' parents church ward as a surprise and spent the rest of the day with them. Chris' mom is sooo sweet she made Jessica and I HUGE mother's day baskets and even personalized a stepping stone with Jack's foot prints for my garden!

Chris had the rest of the week off school for Summer break and we had A LOT of fun! We have been working on some redecorating and painted our bathroom, our bedroom, and my craft room! So now every room in the house is decorated and we even finally landscaped our front yard :) I have so much fun with him. And while we were sitting at Chili's just chatting Chris grabbed both my hands and said out of the blue, "There is no one else I'd rather pass the time with than YOU." Melted my heart because I enjoy his company, friendship and companionship more than anything. We went on many dates throughout the week, saw a movie, attended a baseball game, went to a REAL Salt Lake soccer game, and just soaked up every moment with our little family. Jack of coarse went everywhere with us. He is the BEST baby and he loves his mommy and daddy. Jack is now 5 weeks old!!! I can't believe it :( my baby is getting so big! We weighed him today and he is
officially 7 pounds!!!!!

I made the three wall hanging, I got the idea from my sister Ash

;

At the Real game

New Things about Jack
He is completely off oxygen.He loves his binky.He is always sucking on his hands and has ALREADY become quite the drooler.Jack LOVES his blankies he like to cuddle them close to his face.And sometimes he just needs his mommy, he will fuss and fuss and then all I have to do his hold him close to me add a few kisses to the top of his little head and he calms right down, it makes me feel like a super hero. Jack really enjoys his bouncer and to hear music playing, we love to sit and watch him stare at his toys with wide eyes and babble to them. Oh! And what a voice he has! Jack is ALWAYS grumbling and talking. He really loves to hear his voice and lets us know what's what! Needless to say, Chris and I are smitten. We love that little boy more than anything in the world and we are loving being parents. It's so nice to have someone to share your ideas and life with when they enjoy being a parent as much as you. Here are some pictures to brighten your day :D

Don't you just want to EAT him!?

Oh! And here are the two reasons why we can't leave the baby toys laying around...

Wordless Wednesday: Love

2011-05-04T22:14:00.000-07:00

I have the SWEEEETEST sisters!

2011-05-03T09:59:00.001-07:00

Okay, I without a doubt have the most loving and caring sisters in the world!

When I was on bed rest my sister Heather came over and organized Jack's entire room and most of all his closet she helped me finish nesting when I was on strict orders to not move from my bed. Here is the perfectly organized closet and the labels she made for all the droors. I LOVE it!

My parents just got back from Texas and look what my sister Ashlee sent home with my mommy! She made this beautiful carseat cover for me and my little boy! Isn't it amazing? I love the fabric she chose! I LOOOOVE it! Thanks so much sisters for being the best ever!

Bringing Jack Home

2011-04-27T18:16:00.000-07:00

There are no words for the feelings Chris and I felt, finally' getting to take our baby boy home.

Friday:
One of the NICU Doctors called me mid Friday morning, introduced herself and simply stated, "How would you like it if you could bring your baby home later this afternoon?" I first asked her if she was joking and then described how very much I would! I called Chris he booked it home from work and we went to the hospital to pick up our boy. We went through about a 5 hour discharge and FINALLY left the hospital with our Jack in hand. By the time we got home it was well past 6PM so we ordered pizza cuddled our little boy and kept our little secret to ourselves and enjoyed the night with just our little family of three. (We even gave Jack his VERY first bath!)

All ready to go!

What's going on mom and dad?

Sweet little face

Daddy giving surprisingly calm Jack his first bathWhat a little cutie!

Saturday:

We got some very good sleep in-between feedings Friday night and woke up very rested and still a bit wired from all the excitement. THEN at around Noon we headed up to Grandma and Grandpa Kenner's house for the Easter party with all of Chris' family. Everybody was EXTREMELY surprised and let out a big cheer when they saw Jack was with us and Chris' dad even started to cry letting us know it was, "The best Easter present EVER." (We happen to agree.) We had a ton of fun and ate some yummy food. Jack got held by almost all the family and finally got to meet his two cute cousins Kyle and Lucas. Kyle was sooooo- excited it was adorable.

Aunite Jessica and Jack

Big boy Kyle sitting next to me at lunch

Uncle Cole getting some snuggles

Sunday:

To great-grandmas house we go! I seriously thought my grandma was going to have a heart attack, she was speechless! All of my family was crazy excited and everybody wanted a piece of love from the little Jack. Jack even participated in his very first Easter egg hunt! It was such a fun day :) Jack got stolen by my sister and her husband for a little while, it kinda made me nervous! haha just kidding :) but they did take a family picture with him heehee. Grandma and Grandpa Ewell didn't get much lovings in so they made sure to stop by Monday. What a wonderful first weekend home :)

yeah, perfect reaction!

Sitting with great grandpa :)

Heather and Kyle stealing my baby

Jack's first egg hunt prize from great grandma

Look what he got! What a lucky baby :)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-04-20T09:11:00.001-07:00

"Hey Grandpa, Whats that on your face?"-Jack

Jack is 1 week old!

2011-04-18T22:17:00.000-07:00

Oh-my! Our little boy is already a week old! He is learning more and more everyday and we are so proud of him and finally seeing some major progress! Chris and I spent a lovely evening together Saturday night, celebrating our Jack's one week mark. We went to a movie, made dinner at home together, and visited for a good hour just kissing and cuddling our son. We sure love that little guy-more than words could even BEGIN to describe. As a present to us Jack decided he was too hot in the isolette and was moved to an open crib! Now we can hold him for every feeding and he seems so much more alert and A LOT less sleepy ( I think he was always so drowsy due to the steamy sauna of a bedroom.) He has 2 things now checked off his list! He can maintain body temperature for at least 48 hours, and his IV fluids have been discontinued. He almost has steady weight gain checked off, and they unplugged his oxygen tonight to test him out again without it (he was over 100% all day, so the nurses are pretty sure he will do fine without it.)

Today was such a wonderful day, my little boy finished every single bottle for the first time EVER. He has never once finished a feeding and I was shocked and pleasantly surprised when he gulped down each bottle I fed him under 20 minutes! DEFINITELY a perfect day. I really hope he keeps up this winners streak and can come home to his family soon. We love our Jack and feel so grateful to be his mommy and daddy. Happy 1 week little bean!

Jack, 5 pounds 5 ounces almost back up to his birth weight!

A little groggy after eating

Gosh I love this little boy

My boys :)

PJ's from Grandma Kenner

Mmmm....he loves his mommies milk

Little' bum

THREE is the magic number!

2011-04-12T17:55:00.000-07:00

We are officially a family of THREE and Jack Christopher Ryan Kenner is also THREE days old today! Little Jack is Here :) 5 weeks early! Though after 3 weeks total in the hospital I feel like I've been waiting far longer than 8 months for my little man to arrive. Chris and I are SOOOO extremely blessed with how healthy Jack is and how much progress he is making daily! He was already off oxygen and a ventilator in less than 24 hours and he successfully breast fed today! He is so extremely adorable. Every coo, burp, sigh, and cry just melts our hearts, we could stare at him all day long... He is in a billibed due to jaundice and also in a heating incubator because he can't quite maintain his body heat. The Nurse and Dr says once he is eating better he will gain some weight and be able to maintain his body temperature and THEN be able to come home with us :) They haven't set an exact estimate of when that will be because every baby is different and we will just have to go at Jack's pace. In the mean time I am at the hospital for every feeding during the day, 9am, 12pm, 3pm, 6pm, and 9pm. I am feeling wonderful and so blessed every day I get to spend with my little man.

My Labor: Was delicious. I enjoyed every aspect of how wonderful and how spiritual it was. I feel even closer to my husband than before (which I didn't think was possible) and I feel such a unity with both sides of our family. Jack has such loving grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins! We are so glad he will have so many wonderful examples in his life. Long story short and sparing the details....I labored for 15 hours and pushed for an hour in a half. My epidural wore off in the last 3 hours and the anesthesiologist offered to put in a new one, but I was so past being ready for Jack to arrive that I passed and literally, "pushed through." I had my wonderful husband by my side the entire time and my mother on the other side of me towards the end. My sister Heather and Daddy were behind the curtain and I had many visitors waiting in the hall at the very end of things. Heather was able to catch the events of the day on her amazing camera, I am so glad she was there it felt so right having my big sister near me right before I became a mother. I really wish Ashlee was able to be there too...I had so much support and love throughout the entire pregnancy that it felt exactly right to have so many people at the actual event to love me and root me on. I love you all and I am just so extremely happy. Here is Jack Christopher Ryan Kenner, all 5 pounds 7 ounces, and 18.5 inches of him!

So cozy and warm :)

CUTEST little face EVER!!! Looks like his daddy :) even has his dimples when he smiles (or screams)

The two most important people in my life

Jack loving mommy

Jack staring at his daddy, just hours old.

Drugged up :(

Scrunchy face!

Baby Update!

2011-03-21T18:35:00.000-07:00

New--er News! At my Dr. Appt today I was showing no real signs of progression. My Protein level is a lot higher and my B/P is staying very high. With all my symptoms seeming to get worse instead of stabilizing The Dr. assured me that I wouldn't get past 36 weeks :( It really made me sad, I know bed rest is no fun, and verrrry boring, but having a little tinnny Jack makes me very nervous. Dr. Watts says my body is like a ticking bomb and nobody knows exactly how long the fuse is. I realllly reallly hope little Jack can stay put for 3 1/2 more weeks! I see him again on Thursday to see how fast symptoms progress, but I'm just praying I can stay home on bed rest and not have to be admitted into the hospital. He said if I was 35/36 weeks right now they would just induce me right away. Little Jack you need to cook a little' longer! April 15th I'm 36 weeks let's hope he won't make an appearance before then! Love you all, I'll be in my bed around the clock until I'm told differently :)

<3 B

It's just the beginning

2011-03-17T12:41:00.000-07:00

Wow...This week has been truly CRAZY...full of so many unexpected trials and humbling experiences. It's funny how my life has begun moving at a "take-it or leave-it" pace these days. I feel like I never have enough time to stew over a decision and I have almost stopped replaying every aspect of my day over and over again in my head. At the end of the day I just feel lucky to have gotten through it all. I'm the type of person who ALWAYS has a, "plan" and a "list." I'm beyond OCD and I have severe anxiety issues. Having a "plan" and a "list" seems to be the only way to get me through this life. Until Recently. How can you have a plan or check off items on your list when life just starts HAPPENING. I mean never have I felt so out of control of everything around me, I feel as if keeping up my daily "cray cray," as one of my co-workers call it would only make me disappointed with myself. (he thinks I'm a little loopy, what with my hundreds of lists and how I balance my check book at least 10 times a day...like numbers change or something? haha)

Anyways. I feel like I'm constantly growing up. Realizing there is only so much I can control and that I can't save the world. For example, I used to run around at work like a chicken with it's head chopped off trying to take care of every aspect of the day. I knew that if I did it, it would get done right. So I bore the weight on my shoulders and practically consumed myself in my job. Then...I got pregnant. I found myself tiring easily, becoming forgetful, not to mention throwing up at least 3 times during my shift. I felt as if I couldn't control myself anymore. I wasn't the smart, lively, energetic, go-to girl that everybody counted on. I basically just felt stupid and not myself. Thankfully I have a wonderful boss who says things like, "Things happen" which I totallllly over analyze, but I think the light bulb has finally gone on and I can learn to take things with a grain of salt. I can't always control my circumstances and I can't beat my self up for it. On a happy note, I got a raise Monday the day I was checked into the hospital...ironic and what a blessing!

This crazy week started like this....last Tuesday I worked an extremely crazy long shift. (For an 8 month pregnant woman at least) 8:45-7:30. It was just a REALLY busy day, the kind of day where you don't even have time to breath, let alone take a break. We were understaffed and I agreed to work a full day (with no lunch). I must have REALLY worn myself out because the next day I slept in until 1 in the afternoon. I physically COULDN'T get out of bed. My entire body just ached and I was puffy from head to toe. My grandma advised me to take my B/P at one of the grocery store pharmacy's and I was shocked to see it was very high for me: 147/89 my typical B/P is around 118/60. I called my Dr just to see if it was anything to be worried about and he had me come in right away.

They had me do the urine test and found high traces of protein in my urine, my blood pressure reading at the Dr's office was 150/85 and I had gained 5 pounds in two days (I had just seem him 2 days earlier for my regular office visit.) Dr Watts seemed very concerned and had me admitted to St Marks for some labs and tests that night. I was there for around 8 hours. They were able to stabilize my B/P, but only if I was laying down. They had me do a 24 hour urine collection and my protein levels were still pretty high, 225 Mg. 300 Mg means preeclampsia. Luckily my kidney's and liver hadn't been affected and I was able to go home. I had a follow up appt with Dr Watts Monday the 14th and that didn't prove to pleasing either. My B/P was at 157/98, my protein levels had already risen in just a few days, I was having TERRIBLE headaches, kidney pain, I was starting to get blurred vision and was seeing spots. The thing that scared me the most was that Dr Watts said once or if my B/P rose to 160/110 he would induce me immediately. He is a really good Dr though and made me feel calm and I knew was in good hands. He had me admitted to the hospital that evening for 36 hours (which turned into about 28) They ran all sorts of tests, took tons of blood, had regular B/P readings, and gave me 2 VERY painful steroid shots to develop Jack's lungs. I felt safe though and I surprising didn't stress. This was out of my control and I just had to do the best I could to stay calm and collected for mine and my little one's health. The Dr came and saw me off and ordered STRICT bed rest, basically I can't move from my bed unless I have to use the restroom...He said he was sure with discipline and regular visits that we could Jack to 36,37 weeks! BIG relief. So here I am NOT stressing at home in my bed for 5 more weeks. In the Dr's words, "It will be interesting to see how these next few weeks play out PIH is very unpredictable, and serious. Needs be, you will be re-admitted or induced if any of your symptoms worsen. Take it easy and I will see you every week from now until the baby is born."

Chris and I are blessed, with the steroid shots I was given all Jack's organs with be fully developed and if(when) he comes early he will be totally healthy and completely fine. Dr Watts said at worst he will be in the NICU for a little while, but we will still get to take home a healthy beautiful baby. I am so happy that things are looking up and my ONLY job right now is to take it easy, STAY in bed, and continue to cook my little guy for as long as possible. We have been blessed with a WONDERFUL supportive family who are doing everything they can to ease our burdens. They have set up an arrangement to bring dinners M-F and I am so grateful for the company and time they spend with me as well. I had tons of visitors at the hospital and I've known since the beginning that me and Chris are not it this alone. Baby Jack is soooo loved and so am I. Love you ALL. I will keep you posted :)

<3 B

Day 3: Chicken Curry

2011-03-02T20:30:00.000-08:00

Day 3:

WOW! I'm only onto my third day of cooking and I've decided I LOOOVE cooking the satisfaction from trying a new recipe is ALMOST as fulling as sewing is, and (for me) that's saying A LOT!

Today I tried a HARD hard recipe, Chicken Curry. It took me nearly 2 1/2 hours from beginning to on-the-table to cook this meal. I told Chris I was making, "waffles" because I wanted to surprise him with my skills. He was surprised, and his reaction was perfect. I was beaming while he ate. Every Mmmmm and Yummm sound he made made my heart happier and happier. I recommend trying this recipe when (like me) you have no deadline and have all the time in the world.

Ingredients and Instructions:

6T butter
1 Onion diced
1 glove garlic diced
Saute
In separate bowl combine 6T flour, 1 tsp ginger, 1 1/2 tsp salt, 2 tsp curry powder
Add to rue (if a little lumpy no big deal, it will smooth itself out in the end...I say this because I freaked out a little')
Then add
1 Cup chicken broth
2 Cups milk
1/2 Cup coconut milk (yes coconut milk is suppose to be that thick, I was surprised too)
and
3 cups diced COOKED chicken breast
MIX WELL

Serve over steamed rice with the condiments of your choosing. We like hard boiled eggs, cooked bacon bits, and cashews. (The condiments is what took me so long, I had to cook the bacon, make the sauce, and boil the eggs all at the same time.)

You can also add some yummy rolls as a side or if your cheap like me some sliced white bread :)

This Meal was DELICIOUS probably one of the best meals I've EVER made, I HIGHLY recommend it!

Chicken Curry

Condiments

Mmmmmm

Day 2: Home made corn chowder and corn bread

2011-03-02T18:06:00.000-08:00

Day 2:
So for day 2 of my cooking extravaganza I decided to be a little more daring. Corn Chowder: not that its hard to make, just that all the MANY ingredients kinda make me nervous...

It turned out GREAT! VERY delicious and so easy! Just throw it in the crock-pot! Here is the recipe :) The pictures I took were a bust :( accidentally left my memory card in the laptop and they are saved on the ACTUAL camera (don't really know how to take them off..)

Ingredients:
1 can cream of potato
2 cans cream of chicken
1 1/2 cups chicken broth
1 can corn
1 diced COOKED chicken breast
1/4 cup dicded red pepper
1 cup diced celery
1/4 teaspoon thyme
1/8 teaspoon pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt

Here is the BEST part...Ready? Add all ingrediants to crock-pot and cook on low for 4 hours and serve! HA! Whats better than that?

I served mine with yummy cake-corn-bread.

You just take a yellow cake mix and all its ingrediants and a box of corn bread and all its ingrediants, add them together and heat at the temperature in the middle of the two. Makes for some sweeeet corn bread!

30 Day Cooking Challege

2011-03-01T06:32:00.000-08:00

I have decided to start a challenge to improve myself as a wife and mother-to-be. I am going to learn to cook 30 new meals this month and share my experiences with all of you! My sister Heather made a Meal chart for the month of March and I copied it with only a few minor changes. Thanks Heather! I'm so excited to get into the groove of cooking! We have also started $20 date nights which we go on every Friday night, so with Friday's as an exception I will be cooking every evening :)

Day 1 Chicken Pillows:Brought to you by Heather Hall, Cooked for you by Brittany Kenner

I found this to be a fairly simple, very easy recipe (very comforting for the first day!)

Ingredients:

3 cans croissant rolls ($4.50)

2 boneless skinless chicken breasts ($3.00)

1 package cream cheese ($1.50)

1/2 a stick melted butter (.50)

3 slices bread made into bread crumbs ($1.00)

T0tal Price for meal: $10.50 and serves 12!!!

Just Follow these 10 easy steps!

Step 1: Boil your two chicken breast until insides are no longer pink.
Step 2: Shred chicken breast in medium size bowl.
Step 3: Melt cream cheese at 30 second intervals and add to chicken.
Step 4: Mix cream cheese and shredded chicken until a creamy filling is made.
Step 5: Lay out croissant rolls so two are sticking together making a rectangle.
Step 6: Add filling to the center of the croissant rectangle and fold towards center, making a little pillow. Crease side with your fingers.
Step 7: Place pillows on non- greased baking sheet
Step 8: Spread melted butter over each Chicken pillow and sprinkle bread crumbs over the top.
Step 9: Bake Chicken pillows at 350* for 10-15 minutes (depending on your oven, mine cooks almost too fast!)
Step 10: Serve with rice and vegetable (or no vegetable) of your choice :)

Chris is in LOVE with this recipe, made me so proud :)

We have at least 3 days worth of left-overs!

It's a boy! Baby shower hosted by the Ewell ladies and Grandma Hughes :)

2011-02-18T07:38:00.000-08:00

I had been looking forward to my Thursday baby shower for months! My sister Ashlee flew in from Texas to help host it and everyone did such an amazing job! I felt like a queen, both my sisters over-did themselves with the cutest decorations, invitations, and my grandma and mommy made enough yummy food to feed the neighborhood. I was so pleased with all the love and support I received! Presentation is very important I've learned growing up near Hughes' and let me just say my Grandma Hughes KNOWS how to throw a party! Her house is beautiful and she sets things up better than Martha Stuart! I am so lucky to have her as a part of my family and also as my Best Friend! My mommy is the prettiest, sweetest, most giving person I know. I love her smile and she brings such a positive presence into any room. I am so glad Jack gets to have her as a grandma :)

As my auntie Tina was leaving for the night she looked at the pile of presents, then to all my friends who I was chatting with, and then to me and said, "Do you think your loved?!" She was correct! Hard to explain how much generosity and good company there was flowing in all night.

I just want to say THANK YOU to everyone who came and supported me and my little boy on the way, I am so thrilled with all the generous gifts I received and can't wait to dress little Jack in all the cute clothes hung up in his closet. What a PERFECT evening it was :)
P.S I counted and there was nearly 40 people who supported

The Cute banner my sister Heather made (I swear Heather was there, I just failed to get any pictures taken with her!)
My mommies famous sugar cookies

My party favors they say, "Congradulations on your little peanut."

That white chocolate popcorn Kim made was to DIE for!

Ashlee's little extra touches

The cute plates and napkins my Grandma picked out

The spread :)

My grandma has a little, "Martha" in her

Holding our adorable party favors made by my sister Ashlee
That's the amazing Grandma Hughes in the middle!

Me and my Mommy

The amazing grandparents!

Me and my papa, he's always making me laugh!

Me and my Grandpa Hughes

Pretty Ash and little Wesley

Me and Kim "The popcorn maker" but also my moms forever friend

Auntie Tina, Me, and Auntie Mindy

haha, eating..

unwrapping!

Wowza!

The damage...haha Chris had a to make several trips to fit everything into Jack's room!