Everything Wonderful

Welcome to the World AVERY!

2012-01-28T15:15:00.006-07:00

She's here!

Avery Renee Sanchez was born January 23, 2012 at 11:12 AM. She was 6lbs 8oz and 19 inches long. Just perfect!

I was scheduled to be induced on Monday (the 23rd) morning at 7am. It was so weird having your labor "scheduled." Going in to the hospital not in labor, but knowing that I would leave with a baby. Anyways, we got all checked into the hospital and by about 8am the induction process began. They first broke my water and then started me on pitocin. The contractions came on quickly and got very strong very fast. I walked around a bit and sat on the "labor" ball for awhile and then I just couldn't take the pain anymore- I wanted an epidural! About 20 minutes after I got the epidural only half of my body was numb. I could still feel the contractions very strongly on my right side. They called the anesthesiologist to come back and see if he could fix it, but it was too late- all of the sudden out of nowhere I had to push and knew that she was coming! They checked me and I was already at a 10. They

had me give one push and she was right there, so they told me to stop while they rushed around frantically getting everything ready and calling the doctor to come in. A few minutes later after only 2 more pushed Avery was here! They laid her on my chest immediately and I just stared at how beautiful she was. I was only in labor for 3 hours! She was definitely easier than Caden, who I was in labor with for 14 hours and pushed for 3 hours. I was so thankful!

We only spent one night in the hospital and came home Tuesday evening. Caden was unsure at first and it has been a big adjustment, but things are getting better each day. Caden is now smiling at and interested in his little sister and even shared some of his toys with her today. After days of hormonal breakdowns and feeling totally overwhelmed I am now feeling more like myself again and am getting into the swing of things. Everything is falling into place and I am so thankful that I get to be Caden and Avery's mom! I am very blessed!

Ah, Finally...

2012-01-13T08:01:00.002-07:00

I am so pleased to report some good news! It has been a very rough few months for me and my family and we have gone through trial after trial. I finally feel like some peace is headed our way! I just want to thank God for answered prayers and for always giving me the grace and strength to get through every situation.

Anyways, on to the good news circling my life lately. First of all, the baby is looking healthy and is head down! I had a doctor's appointment yesterday and she thinks that Avery is still under 7 lbss (thankfully!). I am now 2 1/2 cm dilated, so I progressed by 1/2cm. At least it is something! :) My due date is the 28th, but if I do not go into labor within the next week or so my doctor is going to induce me on the 23rd. It feels good to have a date set just in case and see the end in sight. I am really ready for her to be here!

I can now confidently say that I am ready for her arrival because some of my big "to-dos" are now done. I had most of the work done on my tooth a few days ago to totally finish up my root canal work. Now, in a month or so I will go back in just to have the permanent crown put in place, which should be very quick and easy.

Also, drumroll please....the carpets are fixed and the odor in the house is gone! Yay! I couldn't be happier and more relieved that it was done before Avery's arrival. After 3 weeks of living in those awful conditions we now have new carpet in the living room and dining room. It made a world of difference and I cannot smell the urine odor any longer, Praise The Lord!

So, now I can say that things are settling down and falling into place and I feel ready to meet my baby girl. I know that this "peacefulness" won't last long once she is born. It will be crazy for awhile trying to balance everything, but I know that there will be such joy with it.

I ask for your prayers that God would give me a safe and smooth delivery, that Avery would be born a very healthy baby girl, that Caden would love and accept her, that I wouldn't experience postpartum depression, and that this would be a season of peace in our lives. Thank you for all your love and support. :)

And next time, hopefully, I will be posting pictures of Avery Renee Sanchez.

Another Baby So Soon?! :)

2012-01-03T14:51:00.003-07:00

Hello 2012, nice to have you here!

Who knows what to expect this next year. The only that I can really focus on right now is the arrival of my second baby. I can't believe she will be here so soon! I had a doctor's appointment today and I found out that I am already 2 cm dilated and 80% effaced. She said that she could also feel the baby's head, which is good that she is head down! I am expected to go early, but if she doesn't come by 39 weeks then my doctor will induce me because of the kidney pain that I have been having. (By the way, Saturday I will be 37 weeks)

I just can't believe it.

I feel a bit in panic mode now, knowing that she could come early. I feel like we haven't even gotten settled into this place yet due to all the things listed in my last post. The carpet and smell still have not been fixed. Garrett called today to see where they were with that and basically we just have to wait. They better hurry, though, because I want everything done before she arrives. We still need to finish hanging our wall decor in the living room and bedroom and still need to unpack the hall closet. That is about all that needs done with the house on our part. I, also, need to finish a few things in her room and get her car seat from my mom's garage and set up in our car. Oh yeah, and then there is that hospital bag that needs packed.

My, my, my it doesn't feel real that I am going through this again and will have another baby! I really pray that Caden does well with the transition and that he loves her immediately. :)

I just have to trust in God and His timing.

Another Year Gone By: 2011

2011-12-31T10:40:00.002-07:00

2011 has not been the best year for me. I am actually looking forward to leaving 2011 in the past and moving on to see what 2012 will bring.

We have had some major changes this year and along with those changes has come some hardships.

I just want to go over the year for my own record and to reflect back on what this year has meant to me.

*The first few months of 2011 were pretty easy going. Just enjoying time as a family. In February for Valentine's Day Garrett and I had a special date at the Melting Pot and were able to splurge on a dinner that we normally would never be able to have! :)

*In March I celebrated my 23rd birthday by shopping and going out to eat at Red Robin.

* In April we celebrated Easter with a great outdoor service with the Trademark body of believers. Then we had Easter dinner at my grandma's house. It was Caden's first Easter.

*May was Caden's 1st birthday! We had family come into town and had a party at my grandma's house. We had yummy bbq, he opened gifts, and we played outside. The weather was perfect that day!

*May was also the month that we found out that I was pregnant again! This was so unexpected and we were honestly in shock for some time after finding out.

*June was the month the morning (aka- all day) sickness kicked in. I suffered with, basically, non stop morning sickness for about 3 months. It was difficult to be the mom and wife I wanted to be with this going on, but we made it through.

*July is when Caden really started walking on his own and all around! It was so fun to see him reach this stage and never look back! Now he basically runs everywhere! Haha.

*At the end of July Garrett got a new job at Anser Charter School as the full time custodian. This was an answer to months and months of prayer! We couldn't be more thankful for this job.

*August Garrett and I celebrated our 5th wedding anniversary. We went to the fair which is starting to be a new anniversary tradition. Haha.

*September we found out that we are having a baby girl this time around! We were so thrilled and decided on the name Avery Renee.

*October is when my health problems started with trips to the ER and Labor and Delivery. Between October and December I had to go in 3 times. Finally in mid-December I had a kidney ultrasound and found out that I have kidney stones.

*In November we took a trip to Oregon to spend Thanksgiving with Garrett's mom's side of the family.

*In Mid-December I needed to have an emergency root canal done on my tooth. The pain came on so suddenly and intensely that when I called at 7pm they had me in the next morning at 11am and in the meantime gave me a prescription for Vicodin.

*In December Caden also faced multiple colds and we took him into the ER one of the times because he had a fever that reached 105! It turned out that he had Roseola. We didn't know this until his fever broke a few days later and he broke out in a rash.

*Also, in December we spent many days packing up our apartment to move into a house rental. We moved the day before Christmas Eve. It was a lot of work and, unfortunately, we are still dealing with the stress. The house was not in the condition that it should have been. So, we have been dealing with people coming over to fix doors, blinds, pick up dog poop in the backyard left from the previous tenants, and now we are waiting for someone to come fix the carpet in the living room. The previous tenants let their dogs pee all over the living room floor right before they moved and did not clean it up. Now after 3 cleanings the floor is still making the whole house smell like urine! It is really unlivable and we have been waiting for days for the property management to fix it. We are still waiting and now with the holidays it won't be fixed until at least this next week. So, this whole ordeal has been very frustrating and stressful...what a way to end the new year. And to top it off Caden and I both have colds!

So, 2012. Please bring me a season of peace and stillness. I pray that we can enjoy time together as a family. I pray that we would all be in good health. And I pray for Avery's safe arrival. I hope that Caden loves her and welcomes her into his life. 2012 please leave the stress back in 2011. Thank you. :)

Angela

Caden's 2nd Christmas!

2011-12-31T10:26:00.004-07:00

The Move!

2011-12-18T19:14:00.003-07:00

I can not wait until Friday!! I know I still have like 5 days, but I am just so excited to move into our new place! The actual act and process of moving is less than enjoyable, but when you are moving into a place that is much better than where you currently are it is definitely worth it.

Some things that I am looking forward to about living in our new place:

1. Having a garage. Since Garrett and I have been married we have never had a garage. We are always parking our cars on the street or in a parking lot. I am looking forward to the benefit of parking my car in an enclosed structure that will keep my kids safe while trying to load them and keep us warm in the freezing cold.

2. Not having any shared walls or anyone living above us. This is my biggest complaint about apartment living, especially when you have young children. When you share so many walls and live so close together with other people you get to hear a lot of unwanted noises at unwanted times. I don't know how many times Garrett has had to go upstairs or next door and ask them to please be quiet at 2 am because they are keeping us up! I look forward to the peace and quiet that no shared walls will bring.

3. Having a backyard. I have a little boy who LOVES being outside. He would stay out there all day if he could! I am so excited to have a fenced backyard for him to run around and play in. Right now if we want to go outside we have to drive to the park or he plays on the sidewalk by the parking lot...not a good playground. (Bytheway, in our new place we are in walking distance to one of our favorite parks as well).

4. Having a laundry ROOM. Right now my washer and dryer are in a closet in our 1 bathroom. I am looking forward to having a room dedicated to doing laundry and that gives me the space and storage I need.

5. Living in a subdivision. I am happy that we are moving into a quiet neighborhood where I can take my children for peaceful walks. Right now we live off a busy street that doesn't even have a sidewalk. Definitely not the best place to go for bike rides or walks, especially with young kids.

6. Having a master bathroom. Garrett and I have never had more than one bathroom since we have been married. I am excited to have one connected to my bedroom! It means I can blowdry my hair at night without worrying that I will wake up Caden and it means no trips or stumbles down the dark hall in the middle of the night as I make my way to the restroom. :)

7. Having more room for my growing family. There is definitely more space in the new place. Both kids will have their own room and have more room in the living room to run around and spread out their toys. :)

To sum it up, I am so grateful that God has provided such a wonderful place for us to live and I am willing to do all the dirty work of moving in order to get there. :)

Warning: This is a very long documentation of the trials I have been through the last few months...PROCEED WITH CAUTION :)

2011-12-11T19:40:00.003-07:00

Talk about "when it rains, it pours!" The last couple months have hit us pretty hard as a family. I am seeing a light at the end of the tunnel and I am praying that a season of harvest and rest is coming!

I have had a bit of a rough time this pregnancy. It started out in October when I had to go to Labor and Delivery at the hospital because I thought that I was going into premature labor. I wasn't, however, and they told me they thought I had a UTI. So, I got on antibiotics and went home. Three weeks later I went to the urgent care clinic because I was in pain again and assumed I had another UTI. They said they didn't see any bacteria in my urine sample, but put me on antibiotics anyways. And then just 1 week ago I was back in Labor and Delivery with what I thought was a kidney infection. While I was being monitored in the triage section I started contracting regularly. They had to give me a shot in the back of the arm to stop the contractions and gave me an IV because I was somewhat dehydrated. They also decided to start me on antibiotics while we waited for my sample to be cultured. When I had my regularly scheduled doctor's visit on Monday I discussed everything with my doctor and she said that her records showed that all 3 of those visits I had all came back negative on any bacteria growth...meaning no UTI and no kidney infection. There was, however, both blood and white blood cells in my urine all 3 times, leading us back to my kidney. When my doctor tapped on my back where my kidneys are located I was in a lot of pain on my right side, so she ordered me to have a kidney ultrasound.

Thursday I went in for the ultrasound and found out that I have kidney stones and a "back flow" of urine in my kidney which makes me have a dull pain basically constantly. I still have not discussed what comes next with my doctor, since the ultrasound was just a few days ago. I hope that the stones are small enough to pass on their own! I am grateful, though, that I have an answer as to all the pain and other symptoms I have had the past few months.

That same Thursday that I had the ultrasound I started having a terrible pain in my tooth. It had been bothering me for about a week and a half, but it was never this persistent or painful. As time went on in the day my pain just kept increasing until it was unbearable! So, I had to rush around trying to find a dentist to take me in (I don't have a regular dentist as I haven't been in years due to the cost :) ). Finally, I got in touch with my dad who set me up with his dentist office. When I called I found out that the dentist didn't have an assistant all week and wouldn't be able to treat me, so he referred me to a specialist who does root canals. I would be able to see him the next morning (it was about 6 when I called).so he called me in some pain meds and an antibiotic (Because my tooth was infected.) After I figured all of this out I noticed that Caden was basically acting like a zombie and when I felt him he was super hot. I took his temperature and it was 102. He had been pulling on his ear the day before and that day as well and so I thought I better take him in to see if he has an ear infection. I barely made it in to urgent care before they closed and they told me he didn't have an ear infection. So we went back home.

The next morning I went to my dentist appointment and am so thankful that I was able to get the root canal done, because I feel much better! When I got home Caden was not doing well, however. As the day went on he got worse and worse and by 9 pm I had to call Garrett to come home early from work. Caden wouldn't go to sleep and just kept crying. When I took his temperature it was 104, every time we tried to give him some tylenol he would throw up. This happened 3 times. Finally at about 10:30 his temperature reached 105 and I decided we needed to take him in since he wasn't drinking any liquids and wouldn't keep down his medicine. We went to the ER and were there until midnight. They said he seems to just have a common viral infection and they gave him an anti nausea pill and then tried to give him the tylenol and that worked. So, we went home and Caden slept with me all night, which meant I didn't get hardly any sleep! Since then his temperature has slowly come down and today it was only 100 and he was playing some and acting more normal today. So, I am very grateful that he is recovering and doing better!

I know this is long and it is probably very boring. I just had to get it all out. These health problems have all been happening on top of us preparing for Avery to come in just 7 weeks, preparing to move in just 12 days, and a flea infestation that we are trying to get rid of. Sometimes so many things happen at once that you feel like you will break. That is how I feel at the moment...I can't take just one more thing!

So, I am just trusting in the Lord. He is good and He has been my peace and hope in all of this. I hope that that season of harvest is coming. I am looking forward to being settled into our new house, welcoming Avery into our family, and just enjoying the time we have together. :)

My Provider

2011-11-22T08:40:00.003-07:00

I find myself being reminded so frequently that God is our faithful provider! Since I have been a recipient of His Grace I have constantly been on the receiving end of mercy, strength, health, comfort, love, peace, and physical blessings as well. It amazes me that God cares for me that much that He calls Himself my Father in Heaven and me His daughter.

Ever since we became pregnant with Caden I have seen God providing for our physical needs in an obvious way and it has been such a blessing! There is nothing that I can do but praise Him.

Lately, the same thing has continued. After we found out we were pregnant, we received the health care we needed for the pregnancy, Garrett was given an full time job with a stable schedule, and just last week God provided a house for us to rent. We had received more financial aid this term from Garrett's school than we were expecting and that amount was the exact amount of our security deposit to rent this house...to me, that is obviously a gift from God! The house has everything we need, is in our price range, and is available to move in the last week of December, which is exactly when we need to move out of our apartment.

I just know that all of these blessings are directly from the Lord and I just want to praise Him for caring for us and for His faithfulness, even though I do not deserve it. We truly serve a good God!

"For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the LORD, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future." Jeremiah 29:11

18 Months

2011-10-31T20:49:00.000-06:00

Our (not so much) Halloween

2011-10-30T13:21:00.003-06:00

My Grandma had her annual Halloween party last night and we had a great time eating treats and hanging out with family. Caden had so much fun running around and playing ball with everyone. However, I do not have a little Ducky for Halloween this year...Caden acted like he was being tortured when I put on his costume and he started screaming and crying- so obviously I took it off! I am sad that he didn't like it and that he won't be dressing up this year, but he is still so young. Next year he might enjoy it more and can help me pick out what he wants to wear.

We did get 2 pictures from last night, which is amazing these days seeing that Caden won't sit still long enough to get a decent picture.

Hope you and your family have a fun and safe Halloween!

This Is October

2011-10-22T18:26:00.002-06:00

I can't believe Halloween is next weekend! I am very excited for Caden's 2nd Halloween. Last year he was the cutest billy goat I have ever seen, and this year he is going to be a duck. I haven't tried his costume on him yet- even though I have had it for months- so I hope that it fits and that he will wear it without a fight! :)

Tomorrow is October 23rd- that marks 7 years since Garrett and I have been together. It was our Sadie Hawkins dance at school and I asked Garrett to come with me- AS FRIENDS :). And that night he gave me a poem, some Sweet Tarts (which he changed the name to Sweet Hearts:) ), and a stuffed animal and asked me if I would 'be his girlfriend.' Thinking back on it makes me laugh, but it was so sweet and I of course said yes. Ever since then we have been inseparable. And now we have been married 5 years, have a beautiful 18 month old boy, and have a sweet baby girl on the way. Life is unexpected and wonderful.

We took Caden to the pumpkin patch at the beginning of the month and had a pretty good time. He was all over the place and just wanted to explore his little heart out. Which was difficult seeing how busy it was and how hard it was to walk in the pumpkin patch without falling down. But we picked out some very cute pumpkins and Caden loves them. I thought it would be fun for him to finger paint his pumpkin, but boy was I wrong. He did not like the feel of the paints on his hands and started crying for me to wash his hands after only a few minutes. Before I took him down I helped him paint his pumpkin quickly so it would at least be decorated by him. Haha.

We have been playing outside a lot and Caden is on a swing almost every day. He just loves to move and play- sure wears me out!

Anyways, everything with baby Avery is looking good and I can't wait to meet her! I am 26 weeks along- only 14 to go! I am done being pregnant, though. I don't feel quite as good as I did when I was pregnant with Caden, but overall I am fine. I just don't want to get even bigger and even more uncomfortable, which I know is going to happen! Haha.

That's about it for now! Next time I will be posting Halloween pictures of my adorable duckling! :)

September in a Nutshell

2011-09-30T15:02:00.004-06:00

September went by quickly in the sense that I can't believe tomorrow will be October 1st with Halloween and the rest of the Holidays soon to follow, but September also dragged on for me. Our family faced a ton of sickness this month. Added all together it was 3 weeks of the stomach flu, colds, and a double ear infection between the 3 of us.

Thankfully, we are healing- I am over everything, Garrett is almost completely over his cold, and Caden is on antibiotics for his ear infection.

So, needless to say our household has been a little "off" this month.

But besides that, we also had a huge blessing this month...we found out that we are having a baby GIRL! We are so thrilled and are even more thrilled that she looked very healthy on the ultrasound. I still can't believe that we are having another baby. I feel so thankful and so overwhelmed by it. How will I handle 2 kids? Just by God's good grace I suppose. :)

We have, also, enjoyed watching BSU football games with my family and playing outside when we have the chance.

Caden is obsessed with going outside...it is basically all he wants to do, which is hard when you don't have a backyard! We are so ready to rent a house- only 1 1/2 more months until we move!

This month I have started stacking up on Christmas gifts, which I love to do! I am, actually, all done with Caden's presents! Can't wait for that time of year. ;)

That is about it for now. Just trying to get healthy and stay that way! Here is a few photos from the past month...mostly us on Bronco game day. :)

BSU Football Family Photo

19 weeks pregnant (tomorrow I will be 23 weeks!)
3 Generations

5 years

2011-08-22T20:50:00.003-06:00

Saturday was Garrett's and my 5th wedding anniversary. I am amazed at how quickly it has gone by- just like everything else, I suppose. We have gone through so much during these past 5 years and have changed so much as people.

I remember back to 5 years ago on our wedding day and just feeling so swept up in the feeling of love- the unknown- our future. I felt like we could conquer the world. I had never been in love like that before and even though I was only 18 years old- fresh out of high school- I knew that this love was the real thing.

5 years isn't a long time, but it is something. In these 5 years we have moved from place to place, from college to college, and learned a lot of life lessons. We have grown as people, grown together, but most importantly grown more and more in love with Christ. We have had ups, downs, and in-betweens. We have had a baby...a piece of our hearts outside of our chests living and breathing. We have another baby on the way. We are more in love now than ever before and I thank God that 5 years ago- yes at the age of 18- I said 'I do' to the man of my dreams.

Happy Anniversary, Garrett, I love you more than words can say.

Changes Again! :)

2011-07-15T12:14:00.004-06:00

I haven't written in quite some time. I find it harder and harder to make time to do so as Caden gets older. Since his 1st birthday on May 5th he has been growing so quickly. He isn't a baby anymore, but a little boy!

He is waking all over the place and is developing quite a little sense of humor (he is always making Garrett and me laugh). He is starting to say some words including Go, Wow, Woah, Ouch, and tries to say Cat.

The last few months have been a whirlwind! So much has changed in our little family. The biggest thing is that God is blessing us with another child! Tomorrow I will enter my 12th week of pregnancy...almost to the 2nd trimester! I am praying that with the 2nd trimester my morning sickness will cease and I will have a renewed energy. I am due January 28, 2012. Garrett and I had just started discussing when we would want to have another baby and little did we know, I was already pregnant! This baby truly is God's doing. :)

We had our first ultrasound of this baby last week and it was amazing to see! I was far enough along at this appointment that the baby was moving a little bit for us. It was so cute to see him/her wiggling around. :) The heart beat was 171 bpm and everything was looking good.

With this new addition coming we need a bigger place and are planning on renting a house in December when our lease is up. In order to do this we really needed the security of Garrett having a full time job. So, since May we have been applying and applying and applying to every stable job we could find. And the day after we had the ultrasound Garrett had an interview for a full time custodian position at a school. A few hours later we received the call that he got the job! Wow, talk about God providing! We are ecstatic and are praising God for His Provision!

Like most of the time, our future is somewhat unclear to us, but it gives me great comfort and peace to know that it is in God's hands and His plans are always far better than my own.

1 YeAr!

2011-05-21T20:05:00.005-06:00

So much has been going on since I last posted.

Caden experienced his first Easter. We had a wonderful church service at the park and then had dinner at my grandma's house. He had a little cold, but besides that he really enjoyed the day.

And, of course, Caden had his 1st birthday on May 5th. I can't believe time has passed so quickly! Since we have so much family Caden celebrated 3 times on the week of his birthday. He had a big party at my grandma's on his actual bday and had a blast. He opened presents, we barbequed, we watched a video that Garrett made of Caden's 1st year, and of course we sang to him and he ate his bday cupcake.

This has been the best year of my life and I thank God for the honor of being a mom!

Caden has become so funny. He claps all the time, throws himself backwards in his crib and cracks up laughing, and he loves to be outside. On the warm days we go for walks and play at the park. I can't wait for summer.

Caden had his 1 year doctor appointment and besides being sick and having an ear infection the week of his birthday, he was very healthy. He doesn't weigh very much @ 18.5 lbs. The doctor said that is in only the 3rd percentile. His height is in the 39th percentile and his head is in the 83rd percentile...I think it's because he has a big brain. :)

Here are some pictures of his bday, Easter, and recently having fun at the park:

The Madness of March

2011-03-25T11:00:00.001-06:00

Well, should I state the obvious that I haven't posted in awhile? haha. Things just keep getting busier and busier as Caden grows. He is crawling like a madman these days! haha. He gets in to EVERYTHING and goes EVERYWHERE he shouldn't. He is also pulling himself up to a standing position and using anything that is taller than him on his knees, even if it is just a toy. There have been a couple of spills, but not too many yet.

I am in awe of how he catches on to things and how smart he is. It gives me such joy to see him learning and growing- truly a blessing of being a mom.

It baffles me that Caden will be 1 year old in just 41 days! As I have been reflecting on this past year I have been humbled and so grateful that God not only allowed me to be Caden's mom but gave me the opportunity to be at home with him full-time. There is nothing in the world that I rather do!

Besides just watching Caden grow and chasing him around everywhere this past week was my 23rd birthday. I tried to spread it out into a "Birthday Week" and started out with dinner, presents, cake with my dad and family at his house. Then Garrett, Caden, and I went out on the only decent day that week to the zoo. It was so much fun, Caden actually watched the animals with interest. Then came Wednesday, my actual birthday. We had our usual schedule during the day and once Garrett got off work we went to dinner at Red Lobster while my mom watched Caden. Then we headed to my grandma's house for red velvet cake and chocolate milkshakes...my request. :) Then...I am still going, haha...Friday my mom and I went out to lunch and did a bit of shopping.

Well, that's about it for now. I want to, of course, share some pictures of my cutie pie!

Have a good week, everyone!

2.14.2011

2011-02-15T13:44:00.002-07:00

Hope you all had a fabulous Valentine's Day!

We had a great time as a couple and has a family of 3!

Garrett and I celebrated early by going to dinner at the Melting Pot. It is a fondue restaurant downtown. We had a 4 course meal and it was so wonderful! Especially because we never have such "fancy" eating experiences. If we ever go out to eat it is usually to Red Robin (which IS my favorite restaurant by the way).

Then on Valentine's Day we had a yummy breakfast of pancakes and strawberry smoothies!

Then we gave Caden his Valentine, which was The Very Hungry Caterpillar book. Then after a morning nap, we went to the park for the first time with Caden. He LOVED the swing. He was just laughing away. Afterwards we went to the mall for a few things and then had dinner in the food court.

Such a fun day celebrating the love in our life. :)

HaPpY VaLeNtInE's DaY!

2011-02-14T09:06:00.002-07:00

A Most Amazing 9 Months!

2011-02-08T13:55:00.003-07:00

Caden is 9 months and 3 days old today. He had his 9 month check up with the doctor today. I wanted to record his stats from the doctor and some other things about him at this age. Each stage goes by so quickly and the last thing I want to do is forget!

Caden @ 9 Months:

*Weighs 17lbs & 10 oz - 8th percentile

*Is 28 inches tall- 38th percentile

*Head has a circum. of 18.25 inches- 78th percentile! haha.

*Wears size 9 months mainly, but can wear some 12 month sizes.

*Sits on his own, but sometimes randomly throws himself backward and bonks his head. :)

*Does the "arms crawl" and always drags his right leg when he does it...pretty dang funny.

*Rolls like a crazy person.

*He is ALWAYS moving. He doesn't like to sit still or to be held. He just wants to be free, especially when I am changing his diaper or clothes...this has been a major challenge lately.

*He LOVES bath time. It definitely relaxes his and he loves to splash in the water.

*He enjoys shopping with me. He just observes everybody and watches all the things roll by.

*Daddy makes him laugh more than anyone. He especially likes it when he makes funny noises.

*He is VERY ticklish.

*He can't get enough of his bottle...this is going to be a tough one to break.

*Likes reading time with mommy. His 2 favorite books are "Brown Bear, Brown Bear" and "I Love You, Goodnight."

*Calms down when I sing "The Ants Go Marching" song.

*Still loves jumping.

*Likes his oatmeal, mangos, and carrots.

As he grows I love to see his personality develop more and more. He is such a character and I am looking forward to each day that I get to spend with him. :)

Busy Little Me

2011-01-17T20:57:00.003-07:00

I have been very busy lately working on a couple of things!

#1- I have started another blog! This blog is going to be a blog specifically for women. Talking about things we are interested in...crafts, cooking, parenting...as well as devotions and conversations about life and issues we face as women. I hope that it will be helpful and that everyone will enjoy it. I am really looking forward to working on it!

I will try and update it every couple of days. The website is www.diapersanddevotions.blogspot.com

#2- After having quite a break from my Etsy shop things are back up and running! I have updated somethings and am ready for business...well, I hope I have some business! :) Go check it out! @ June Tree Designs

There are some great Valentine things on there, especially for little girls.

I am glad to have these things going in my life. I love being at home with Caden more than anything! But, as most of you mommas know, it gets so tiring and you give so much of yourself that I need to do this for myself. It also helps me to feel a sense of accomplishment.

Caden is getting so big and is starting to move all over. He will be crawling like crazy before I know it! Right now he more scoots and pulls himself forward. He is so entertaining and has the greatest smile...now with 2 little teeth on the bottom!

Here is a picture of him a few days ago watching tv with mommy and daddy in his diaper...so cute!

MeRrY ChRiStMaS!

2011-01-03T09:29:00.006-07:00

Decorating the tree: Caden was in awe of Daddy putting on the lights.

Christmas Eve: A family photo shoot and our tradition of reading the Polar Express every Christmas Eve. Caden actually liked listening to it!

Christmas Morning: Caden actually opened his presents with little help from us. He had a lot of fun this morning! A photo of all the presents he received from Mommy & Daddy.

Christmas Day: Dressing up as Santa at Grandma and Grandpa Sanchez's house. A 4 generation photo of my Grandma Shirley, my mom, me, and Caden.

I hope you and your family had a blessed Christmas this year celebrating the birth of our Saviour!

Christmas Time!

2010-12-12T20:12:00.003-07:00

Did a little Christmas photoshoot with Caden in honor of his very first Christmas. I think they turned out pretty cute. :)

Here are the handmade stockings I did for us

And I have to throw in this adorable picture of Caden and Daddy

Family Portrait

2010-12-05T15:29:00.000-07:00

(taken in October when Caden was 5 months old)

fEsTiVaL of TrEEs

2010-12-01T13:10:00.002-07:00

Growing up I have gone to the Festival of Trees every year. It is a tradition for me. So, I have dragged my family into it too. :)

It was so much fun taking Caden this year. He was in awe of all the Christmas lights hanging from the ceiling and the brightly decorated trees. And, of course, he loved watching the crowds of people. I am looking forward to the years to come when he will be able to pick out his favorite tree and sit on Santa's lap.

Happy Birthday & Happy Thanksgiving!

2010-11-27T15:23:00.005-07:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING TO YOU ALL- HOPE YOU HAD A WONDERFUL DAY REFLECTING ON GOD'S BLESSINGS TO US!

This past weekend Garrett's mom and Aunt Lori came for a visit to see Caden and to celebrate Garrett's 23rd birthday early, which was on Tuesday. We had a wonderful time with them and they loved getting to see Caden and how he has changed since we saw them 3 months ago!

On Monday Garrett and I celebrated his birthday since he had to work on Tuesday. I got him a video game that he has been wanting and so he played that for awhile during the day. Then he went shopping with some of his bday money at Barnes & Noble. My mom watched Caden during the evening while Garrett and I went out to eat at the Olive Garden and saw a movie at Edwards. I think he had a great day celebrating!

Thanksgiving was great! It was SO much fun to see Caden experience his first Thanksgiving day meal! He had sweet potato casserole that my Aunt Nan made and then some pumpkin pie! He loved it all! (I didn't give him a taste of anything else, because I didn't want to overwhelm him...he just started solids.)

We went to my grandma's house and most of my family was there. We talked, ate, watched football, and of course went through the black friday ads. I always love just spending time with my family.

(Caden on his 1st Thanksgiving)

Then that night Garrett and I faced the first sales! My mom came over and stayed at our apartment while Caden slept. Toys R Us was first on our list. They opened at 10, but we didn't get there until 11:00pm...still there was a HUGE line wrapped around outside past the pet store! I couldn't believe it. For some reason we joined the line and waited...after 30 minutes of standing in 11 degree temps. and not moving hardly at all we left! Then we headed to Walmart which opened at midnight and we got there right about then. Things were nuts! One of the things we wanted was a few movies that were on sale for $1.96. There was a mob around the movies...I mean I got squished! It was so chaotic, but we were able to get our movies and some other things on our list. We treaded home and were so tired...when I went to look for the movies they weren't there! Garrett had left them at the store! Well, he went back and thank goodness the cashier had saw that they were left and he held them for us! I was amazed! Anyways, we finally got a little sleep and I was back out shopping again at 9 am with my mom. It was much more calm by this time and I was able to get some really good deals and now have all of Caden's birthday presents purchased...5 months early!

All in all I have had a wonderful week with family and I am so thankful to God for all He has blessed me with. I couldn't ask for anything more.

Oatmeal Time!

2010-11-17T18:23:00.002-07:00

6 Months!

2010-11-10T19:36:00.005-07:00

Well, my baby boy is officially 6 months old! Last Friday, Nov. 5th, marked the day. I can't believe it has been 1/2 a year since I held him in my arms for the first time. He has changed my life completely. He absolutely takes my breath away.

We celebrated his first Halloween and had so much fun! He dressed up as a billy goat and was totally cute! On Saturday we went to my Grandma Shirley's house for her annual Halloween party, where Garrett and I also dressed up. :)

On Sunday we visited my dad and family and Garrett's dad and family. It was great for them to see Caden for his first Halloween. He even got a couple Halloween treats- some pears and peaches and a baby animal book! Thanks grandmas and grandpas!

He has been eating oatmeal cereal with a spoon and loves it! He gets SO messy, but that is life! :)

I will start introducing veggies and fruits starting tomorrow. Hopefully it will go well.

We had his 6 month check up 2 days ago and he is very healthy and developing right on track. His weight is: 15 lbs. 4 oz - 10th percentile, height: 26.5 inches- 50th percentile, and I don't remember the circum. of his head right at this moment, but it was in the 67th percentile! That just means he is smart, right? hehe.

He also had another set of immunizations, which he did have a little reaction to. He never had before, but this time he also got a flu shot...

He had a low grade fever the last 2 days and has been fussy and sleepy. I pray that he will feel better tomorrow and be "himself" again.

Well, that's all for now!

Here are some pics of our wonderful Halloween!

PuMpKiN pAtCh

2010-10-20T15:35:00.008-06:00

Caden's first time at the pumpkin patch was so much fun! He LOVED it! He likes watching people and all the different things that are happening. The hayride was one of his favorites and we ended up finding a teeny-tiny pumpkin for him.

I will let the photos tell the story of the day:

Busy, Busy, Busy

2010-10-12T14:43:00.004-06:00

I feel so overloaded right now. There seems to be so much going on lately and I feel like I just need a break! I wish Garrett and I had the means to just get away for a little bit and take a vacation!

Garrett has been working basically everyday since February and it is all catching up with us. If he is not at work he is at church or working on school work. He finishes his first subterm this week and then he will have 1 week break before the next subterm starts. I am SO proud of him and how hard he works! But, Caden and I need quality time with him too.

Praise the Lord that there is a light at the end of this overwhelming tunnel and we will have a bit more breathing room soon. (I will share more about what I mean next time:) ).

Anyways, enough complaining! :) hehe.

Last night Garrett and I were able to have family pictures taken with my dad's family. It was so nice and I think the pictures look awesome! We were also able to get a couple taken of just our little family. Caden looks so adorable in them and I can't wait to order them and share with you all! I think they will be our Christmas card photo. It was a blast getting our photo taken by a professional photographer.

We then went out to eat at Costa Vida and then went to see "Secretariat" at the movie theater. Garrett and I haven't been to the movie theater in a long time!

Well, Caden is officially 5 months old and I wanted to share the new pics I took of him last week- he looked so cute in his little grow up outfit! Here they are:

YES- we are still here! :)

2010-09-30T14:14:00.004-06:00

Haven't blogged much lately. Things have been so busy! We have had multiple birthday parties, Garrett's and my 4th wedding anniversary, a trip to Oregon, 2 BSU game get-togethers, doctor appointments, a trip to the ER, and 2 straight weeks of Caden being sick. All this on top of our regular busy schedule. My, my, my.

I am SO ready for fall and all the holidays. I am excited for Caden to dress up for Halloween, get to eat a bit of his first Thanksgiving dinner, and open his first gifts on Christmas. It will be a fun time for us.

As I speak, Caden is playing in the other room even though he should be napping! I don't know what is up with him today. He usually goes down so easily for his naps...he usually seems ready for a rest. But today he screamed and kicked and acted like I was torturing him! This little episode gave me a quick glimpse into what will most likely be my future during the toddler years. Ugh. I am tired already! haha.

Caden is still getting stronger everyday. I think he will be sitting on his own soon.

He has been "talking" up a storm! It is pretty funny.

Dionna's family is in town today and Caden and I get to see them at Kamica's volleyball game this afternoon. I am looking forward to it...I just hope he has had a nap by then and isn't a little grump! :)

I have already started buying some of Caden's Christmas gifts, which is so much fun! But I have to remember not to get carried away, as he will probably be more interested in the wrapping paper than any of his gifts! haha.

In 5 days Caden will be 5 months old! I can't believe it.

Well, I am going to give his nap another try...wish me luck!

PS- of course some photos to end this post:

the MANY F.a.c.e.S of a 3 MoNtH old!

2010-08-07T20:36:00.006-06:00

...can't think of a title...

2010-08-03T20:54:00.003-06:00

Unfortunately, I do not have any new pictures to post, but hopefully will soon. We have just been so busy the last couple of weeks. Garrett went to both the high school and jr.high camps, which were each about 5 days and were right in a row. While he was at high school camp I was in McCall with my stepmom's family for a few days. I was able to go up to the last 2 1/2 days of jr.high camp. I loved it! I really do feel that God has called me to be with these jr.high age girls at this time and I am excited to continue to serve in this ministry.
So, July 30th we finally were both home for good for awhile. Caden stayed with his grandmas while I was gone (they each had a night). Caden sure missed his daddy during that time and I really missed my hubby! I am SO thankful for him and what he means to our family.
Garrett started back at work right away when we returned home. Thursday and Friday he has a leadership conference with the church.
I have an eye exam tomorrow, which I have been putting off for like 6 months! I am glad I will be able to get contacts again, though.
Caden is growing up so quickly! He started rolling to one side...always his left side. :) He is also very good at holding his head up! We are having troubles with him sleeping at night again. For awhile he was doing really good and then the last week he has been waking up more often. I pray he will go back to sleeping through the night again...I am tired! :)
There is so much going on in our lives now...so much change. And the thing is is that we aren't sure exactly what that change is. We just know that God is moving in our hearts for a change and this is the waiting period where we just trust God with it. We would really appreciate prayer regarding this...and don't worry, we aren't moving away from Boise! :) Not that kind of change...we have had enough of that the past 4 years! haha.
Speaking of, our 4 year anniversary is coming up on August 20th. I can't wait! We are going to go to a movie, have dinner, and stay in a hotel...no waking up in the middle of the night for once! :)
That's about it for now...will post pictures soon, I promise! :)

What a...

2010-07-16T19:55:00.003-06:00

FUN day!
We didn't do anything grand, but I really enjoyed it. Garrett had the day off today, which is SO rare. I don't remember the last time he had a Friday off! So, he helped me mow the church lawn in the morning, then just him and I went to lunch, took him to get a hair cut, picked up Caden, came home and picked up a bit, took a nap, then went to the park to take a few photos, grabbed an ice cream treat on the way home, and to end the day we gave Caden a much needed bath :).
I think we got a couple good photos, but it was so hot out and it is SO hard to get Caden to smile on cue! haha- that's a baby for ya :)!
Garrett is leaving for high school camp on Sunday night and won't be back until Friday, so this was kind of a special family day together before he leaves. Boy will I miss him!
Here are a few of the photos from the park and a couple of Caden after his bath :)

2 MoNtHs

2010-07-13T14:18:00.003-06:00

I can't believe that Caden is already over 2 months old! I am trying to hold on so tightly to the memory of the day that he was born. Ah.
Anyways, I wanted to record a few things from his 2 month check up for me to remember.
Weight: 10 lbs. even (25th percentile)
Height: 23 1/2 inches (50th percentile)
Head Circum.: 15 3/4 inches (70th percentile)
He recieved DTap, Hepatitis B, Polio, Hib, Pneumococcal, and Rotavirus vaccines.
He is very healthy- has great head control, tracks objects, is great at focusing, smiles a ton, and coos a lot.
He is now in size 1 diapers and is in 0-3 month size clothes, totally out of the newborn stuff.
And get this...last night he slept 8 1/2 hours straight (from 9pm-5:30am)! I woke up at 4am and went to check on him to make sure he was still breathing! I couldn't believe that he slept that long...hope it continues. :)
It is such a blessing to watch him grow and develop his own personality...I love getting to know him. Nothing is better. :)

A lotta notta!

2010-07-10T20:37:00.007-06:00

Not a whole lot to say.

Just chugging along I suppose. :)

Caden had his first set of immunizations on Monday and it went pretty well. I was dreading it and was so relieved when it was over. Luckily he didn't have a fever or anything afterwards.

I really have been feeling like a change is going to happen lately....mainly with Garrett's job. We both feel like God is leading him to be somewhere else. So, we will see what happens. Just continuing to pray about it. Ah, change. Garrett and I know that word very well. Our lives have been FULL of change every since we were married nearly 4 years ago. I am ready for some stability for awhile. But God knows what I need more than I do. :)

I feel so boring as I am writing this. I am just feeling so blah right now. Just ready to climb in bed and read a book.

To end this very interesting post I will leave you with a few photos of Caden's 1 month (he is now 2 months) photoshoot with Alisha Beverly. Enjoy! :)

Only 1 week until...

2010-06-22T20:52:00.004-06:00

I become a STAY-AT-HOME-MOM!

I absolutely cannot wait. :)
Last Monday was my first day back at work from maternity leave. I was dreading that day, but kept telling myself that I could do it. Well, the day came and I cried all morning. Leaving Caden was the hardest thing! It broke my heart. I have always known that I ultimately wanted to be a stay-at-home-mom, I just thought that I wouldn't be able to for a few more years due to finances.
Well, God really moved in my heart and I know that the time is now. I don't want to miss a thing of Caden's life and I want my family and household to come before money and work.
I know that God will provide for us and that it will be worth it.
So, last Tuesday I told my work that I was leaving . It was a huge weight off my shoulders.
June 30th is my last day...
Can't wait to be at home with my sweet baby boy. :) Praise God!

LoOkInG fOrWaRd To...

2010-06-17T21:00:00.005-06:00

Cuddling with this little guy:

My cousin's wedding on Saturday

Garrett's first Father's Day

Eating the french fries that are baking in the oven right now

Taking a walk as a family

Design Star & The Next Food Network Star this Sunday

Being a Stay-at-home-mom

Drinking a big glass of chocolate milk

Scrapbooking

Sewing Caden a stuffed animal

Relaxing tomorrow evening

:)

zOO

2010-06-08T21:11:00.003-06:00

Decorating

2010-06-07T23:08:00.004-06:00

These pics of Caden's nursery are for Grandma Linda to see... :)

This is just one side of the nursery. The other side has his changing table and rocking chair.

My fireplace mantle has been a work in progress for some time now and I am finally happy with it, I think.

Here is a pic I snapped of Caden on my phone. We were just hanging out and I caught him smiling at me a bit. :)

Not too much else to report...just loving being a new mom! :)

4 weeks

2010-05-31T22:14:00.004-06:00

I can't believe that in 2 days Caden will be 4 weeks old! I feel like he has been a part of my life for so much longer than that, yet at the same time these past 4 weeks have flown by. I am just loving every day that I get to spend with him.

I have to go back to work in 2 weeks and I know that it is going to be difficult to go back. I just love staying home with him- it is such a joy. :)

Caden changes so much week to week. He is much more alert, can focus his eyes more on things and people, and can hold his head up for longer periods of time! I love seeing these changes.

I just feel so so blessed.

sO pReCiOuS tO mE...

2010-05-25T11:53:00.000-06:00

Week 2

2010-05-23T16:02:00.000-06:00

Caden is 2 1/2 weeks old now and it is going by so quickly. He already looks so grown up to me compared to when he was first born...sigh.

We have really been enjoying being parents, it is like nothing we have experienced before. It is so tiring, but so rewarding at the same time. Each day I am amazed at how much I love him. God truly blessed me with a husband and son like none other! Thank You, Lord!

We have been getting out some. We went on a long walk on the greenbelt last weekend, which was a ton of fun. Caden loves riding in the stroller.

Here are some pics from that day:

Today we had "serve sunday" at church where we went out into the community and did service projects. Then we met back together at Julia Davis Park for lunch. It was a lot of fun. It is awesome to see the church being the church and serving people. That is what Jesus would have us do not just on Sundays, but all the time.

It was crazy because we brought Caden with us and we were stopped about every 2 feet by a crowd of people wanting to see him! haha. I feel so blessed that Caden has so many people that love and care for him already. God is so good.

The rest of the day today we are just enjoying time together as a family at home. Haven't had the chance to do that really yet, and I am really enjoying it. :) I love being a family of 3.

A New Life

2010-05-12T19:36:00.000-06:00

I don't have a lot of time to write these days or get online. Ah.
I am full of so many different emotions; joy, love, awe, fear, and just plain exhaustion!
Most of the time I don't know what I am doing, but am just trying to trust in God.
Caden is so amazing. He is the most precious boy to me and so beautiful. I love him so much that i can't handle it.
Garrett is the best dad ever. I couldn't imagine how amazing he would be at fatherhood. It makes me love him so much more.
Caden is one week old today and we are starting to get the hang of things...I think. :)
I don't know when I will be able to write again, but until then here are just a couple of pictures to hold you over :)

And Counting...

2010-04-29T13:11:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was my due date. I knew that chances were very good that I would go right past that date, but once you do it is kind of disappointing. The only thing that I can think about everyday is if he will come or not! haha. Talk about a one track mind.
I had a doctor's appointment this morning and I am scheduled to be induced May 5th @ 5 Am if I have not gone into labor before then. Dr.Rice thinks that I will most likely have him before then, though. I sure hope so!
I officially started my maternity leave today. I just couldn't work anymore....the last few days have taken a lot out of me and I need some rest physically and mentally before Caden comes.
I am so looking forward to 6 weeks off with just my baby...I know that most of the time i will be exhausted and trying to get used to this new life, but I still am really looking forward to it. :)
Well, that is about it for now...next time I write, hopefully, I will be a new mommy!

Finally A Post...

2010-04-17T11:54:00.000-06:00

I can't believe I haven't written in so long! Things have just been busy, plus we don't have an internet connection at home. That is my excuse. :)
I only have 1 1/2 weeks until my due date! Time is really going by quickly. I can't believe that in 2 weeks max I will have my sweet baby here with me! (the doctor doesn't let you go more than a week past your due date).
We have pretty much everything all ready for him. The nursery is looking so cute! I really am happy with it.
Yesterday my work threw my a surprise baby shower! It was so sweet of them. We ate at johnny Carino's, opened gifts, and had cake. They really spoiled me and Caden with gifts, plus the entire office gave me a $100 gift card to Babies R US! I couldn't wait and went this morning and spent almost all of it on some important things that I still needed.
Garrett and I have really been praying that God would provide for us, as we have more and more expenses coming up. And last week we received some news that could only be a blessing from God- I qualified for medicaid for the pregnancy! This is such a blessing as our health insurance has yet to help us at all with the pregnancy bills, we have such a high deductible for maternity! So, we have been paying out of our pocket, but now we have this assistance to cover it for us! We just praise God for His hand of blessing and providence.
I am looking forward to my 6 weeks off from work to spend with my baby. I know that Caden and I will both really need that time together and I will need that time to heal and try to get used to our new life!
Things are going really good and God is blessing. I could use all the prayers I can get as I have never experienced any of this before! :)
Next time I write I will probably have my baby here with me! Until then...

3 DaY wEeKeNd!.!

2010-01-19T10:54:00.000-07:00

You know, the first part of this month has been very hard for me. I don't know why, I just felt down and sad. Luckily, after much prayer my moods have been lifted and have had such a good weekend. It was a 3 day weekend for me because of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
Here are some of the awesome things I got to do this weekend:

*Friday:
-Had a relaxing evening at home with Garrett watching Star Wars.

*Saturday:
-Went shopping with my mom and got a very cute sweater :)
-Had a date with Garrett: We went to Artist for a Day and painted a frame together for Caden's nursery. It was very difficult to agree on exactly what to do and how to do it, but we had a fun time. We get to pick it up next Monday and we will see how it looks, but when we left Garrett said, "it looks more like Caden made it himself." haha. True. :) Afterwards, we went to Red Robin and got shakes and fries. Yum.

*Sunday:
-Went to church and was really encouraged by the message and worship
-Celebrated Garrett's dad's birthday with lunch at Five Guys Burgers & Fries (is that what it is called?), played wii fit, and played a board game.

*Monday:
-Had lunch with my dad at Applebee's
-Went shopping by myself, looking for things for Caden's room
-Scrapbooked a little bit
-And of course watched The Bachleor. :)

Anyways, it was a packed, fun, and relaxing weekend. It is done now and a new week begins (a short week at that). But, I am ready and ready to be productive again :).

UpDaTe by PhOtOs

2010-01-09T13:01:00.000-07:00

Pregnancy:

Here is my first prego pic at 18 weeks and my most recent one at 24 weeks.

Do you see his sweet profile and his legs kicked up in the air?

Here is his tiny hand.
Christmas:

The Miller family on Christmas Eve, The Sanchez family on Christmas day, my cousins and grandma on my mom's side on Christmas, and Garrett, me, and Jack in front of our tree.

I like to call these "love" pics, haha:

These were taken by the greenbelt last week.

I think you are pretty much updated now...hopefully it won't take me as long to post pics next time!

It is official...

2009-12-17T11:39:00.000-07:00

We are having a BOY!!
We can't wait to meet you, Caden Christopher!

The ultrasound was amazing! We were able to see the heart and its 4 chambers, the spine, the hands and feet, and his cute little nose! We were finally able to hear the heartbeat as well...it was the coolest sound!
He was moving all around and throwing his legs up in the air! haha. Too funny. Everything is looking good and healthy with me and the baby.

They think that I am further along than I thought before...so my new due date is April 28th.

I am so excited and am now ready to start spoiling my baby boy and start setting up the nursery. :)
Yay- life is good!

T.h.is. W.e.e.k.

2009-12-15T12:23:00.000-07:00

I am 20 weeks and 2 days :)
Have an ultrasound appointment for Thursday and will, hopefully, find out the sex of the baby! I can't wait and am praying that everything looks healthy.
I will let you all know what I find out!

Kickin It!

2009-12-05T10:56:00.001-07:00

I have been able to feel the baby's kicks more and more each day. So exciting! Garrett was able to put his hand on my belly and feel a couple kicks too! His face lit up and he looked so suprised! haha. I love being able to feel my baby moving around, poking me, and kicking me. :) It is a huge blessing to me and makes me so happy each time I feel it...:)

Featured!

2009-12-04T10:02:00.000-07:00

One of my stuffed animals "Sheila the Snail" is featured on this blog: http://foundhandmade.com/news/itemize under the Dec.3rd post labeled Bugs II.

Awesome!

A Busy Time

2009-11-30T11:54:00.000-07:00

I have not been very commited to this blog lately. Things have been crazy and are finally settling down a bit, but will still be very busy for sure.
We finally moved into our own apartment and are starting to get unpacked and everything. It is a great place that has 2 bedrooms, a washer/dryer, dishwasher, new carpet, and a fireplace! It is, also, located 5 minutes from both of our jobs. I am starting to get into the habit of going to my new job and the duties that I have there. I feel very blessed to have been given this job. It is pretty ideal.
Garrett and I just got back from Oregon on Friday. We were there visiting some of Garrett's family for Thanksgiving. We had a great time and are now back in the real world and are both back at work today.
This past week I bought my first maternity clothes. So exciting! They are pretty cute and feel much more comfortable than when I was trying to fit into my regular clothes. haha :)
I definitely have a little baby bump developing and I love it! I am 18 weeks now and have been feeling the baby move a bit, which is awesome!
We will be able to find out the sex of the baby in about 2 weeks...I can't wait!
I do have a picture of my baby bump at 18 weeks, so I will be posting that soon.
Until then...have a great week and I will leave you with some things I am thankful for this season~

1. God saving me and pursuing me
2. A loving and godly husband
3. This little miracle inside me
4. A supportive family
5. Garrett and I both having jobs during this tough economy
6. A church where I can worship, serve, and grow
7. Food and shelter
8. God always providing and always working in my life
9. The future
1o. Love

Getting Settled

2009-11-07T15:37:00.001-07:00

I haven't written in awhile. Garrett and I have been so busy with the big move back to Boise. We have been here 2 weeks now and we are finally getting settled a bit. We are living with my grandma for the time being while we save for a deposit on an apartment. We thought we might need to stay with her awhile while I looked for a job. As many of you know, I looked for a job like crazy in Moscow for 5 months and only had one interview. It was not a success. Well, within 5 days of being in Boise I got a job! It is only by God that I recieved a job so quickly and to top it off it is the kind of job that I was wanting. I am a runner at a law firm and work 20 hours a week. I work 1-5 pm Mon-Fri and have all holidays off. It is great!
God has really provided through all of this and I just praise Him for it!

As far as the pregnancy goes, I will be 15 weeks tomorrow and am feeling much better. Morning sickness is finally going away! Yay! :)
I still need to find a new doctor here in Boise and I need to do that soon so I can have my next appointment within the next couple of weeks.

Anyways, that is about it for now! Just very happy to be back in Boise. :)

Crazy People We Are!

2009-10-14T11:33:00.000-06:00

Well, it is a funny thing how God works and where God leads...that being said, Garrett and I are moving back to Boise! haha.
I know what you are thinking...how often are you people going to move?! Well, we are hoping this is it.
There is a two part reason for our move back to Boise.
#1- Garrett has approached me multiple times since we have been here in Moscow that he feels God is really leading him to go back to doing full-time ministry. When he first told me I was just upset, because we had just moved here and I had planned on staying here until he graduated. I told him that I will pray about it and pray that God will change my heart if it is what we are supposed to do...Guess what? God changed my heart and aligned it with Garrett's and His! I knew that we were meant to be in full-time ministry and I think that it took us coming up here to allow God to really get our attention and get our hearts where they should be.

#2- Obviously I want to be near family and friends for the arrival of my first baby! It is very difficult up here since I do not really know anyone. I want my family to have a really close relationship with my baby and I definitely will need the help and support!

So, Garrett is going to attend Boise Bible College and we are moving back to Boise! I know that this is where we will settle down and be for a long while. I can't wait to be back home and be with all of you.

I know we seem crazy sometimes, but we just have to follow where we think God is leading. :)

First Ultrasound

2009-10-07T13:17:00.000-06:00

We had our first appointment and ultrasound on Monday and it was so amazing! It was unbelievable to see our baby's heartbeat. It was going so fast at 162 bpm. It was cool to put an image, somewhat, to what is inside of me.

I found out that my official due date is May 2nd. I will be 11 weeks on Sunday. This is such a cool time in our lives!

I am so glad that Garrett could be there with me at my appointment. He was just as thrilled as I was. :) Our next appointment is November 2nd.

I can't wait to meet our baby in May!

On My Mind...

2009-09-30T16:41:00.000-06:00

1. Leaving tonight for my best friend's wedding on Friday! We can't leave until after Garrett gets off work at 7, and therefore won't get into Boise until 1:30 or 2AM! Tomorrow is so busy with rehersal, rehersal dinner, and the bachlorette party. And Friday is the day! So excited for Trent and Jess to be married! :)

2. I am worried about tripping at some point during the wedding due to the fact that these are the highest heels I have ever worn...but are very very cute!

3. Still need to pack for Garrett and myself...not looking forward to that part.

4. It is so windy and chilly here today, but I love it. I got to wear my scarf and boots for the first time since winter, and I love it!

5. Bought some new fall hand soaps at Bath and Body Works and love them. My hands smell delicious!

6. Am so anxious for my doctor's appointment on Monday...hope the baby is strong and healthy!

7. Wishing my in-laws a safe trip to DisneyWorld today...I wish I could have gone with them! :)

8. Garrett and I will be making another trip to Boise in two weeks for Phil and Emily's wedding.

9. Am hoping that Garrett and I will be able to attend the Fall Harvest Party in Washington next week. I love Fall so much. Can't wait to pick our own pumpkins!

10. I am hungry and had better go get something to eat and start packing!

A Basic Ramble

2009-09-26T17:26:00.000-06:00

Things have been a little bit difficult lately. I am trying to get used to this new way of life: being sick constantly! My morning sickness has really taken me out. I honestly didn't expect this. Not to complain or anything. :)
Poor Garrett has had to make a lot of his own meals. I can't stand to be around most foods and the kitchen is a place I have been avoiding.
I feel overtaken by the pregnancy right now, even though I am not even showing yet! I just don't feel like myself. I haven't been getting out as much, I am more moody than ever, and I hardly have any energy. I am behind on cleaning, laundry, and grocery shopping! Oh my...I can't wait for the second trimester...I heard it is the best one! :)
I am in my 9th week and my first appointment is in one week! I can't wait.
Garett and I will be coming to Boise twice this month for weddings. First, we have Jessica and Trent's wedding this week. I am honored to be the maid of honor and have been planning a fun bachlorette party the night before the wedding and have been pondering what I will say for my toast. Two weeks after that we have Phil and Emily's wedding.
It will be a fun time celebrating with friends. Such an exciting time for them. I think everyone has such fond memories of their wedding day...at least I hope so! :)
Anyways, I just felt like writing a little bit of my feelings down. Sorry it was so ramble-like. :)

A Positively Yes!

2009-09-14T14:11:00.000-06:00

Garrett and I are having a baby! I can't believe it! But this test and the doctor's test prove it! haha. The morning sickness that kicked in almost 2 weeks ago proves it too. :)

Here are some answers to your many many questions:):

1. Was it planned?

No, we weren't planning on having kids until Garrett was done or almost done with college. We believe that it was God's perfect timing, though, and are very grateful.

2. How far along are you?

Tomorrow I will be 8 weeks along. I was going to wait until I was closer to the second trimester to start telling people, but couldn't hold it in any longer!

3. When are you due?

I haven't had an official doctor given due date yet, but it should be around April 30th or May 1st.

4. Are you going to find out the sex of the baby?

Yes, I can not wait that long to start buying pink or blue clothes! :) I am not very patient with these things.

5. How have you been feeling? (why thank you for asking:) )

Morning sickness kicked in 2 weeks ago and is going on strong. I feel sick almost all day long and can't keep a lot of food down. The joy of pregnancy I guess. :)

6. What are your plans?

We aren't sure how everything will work out, but we are trusting that God will provide. Garrett is going to continue to go to school and work the job he has now. I am still looking for a job and am praying that I will have a way to earn money and stay with my baby. We will see how everything works out. :)

But, we are so excited and can't wait to be first time parents! We have been married for 3 years and feel that we are strong enough as a married couple to raise a child that will have a loving and godly home. We could use prayer as we embark on this very new journey! :)

PhOtO TiMe!!

2009-08-31T15:31:00.000-06:00

Finally, finally I have some photos to share! I know that you were all anxiously waiting, right? haha.

Here are some of my favorite photos from Colorado:

THE DENVER AQUARIUM-

(Top: a crazy fish, Middle: my grandma Helena and me, Bottom: Garrett and me)

THE DENVER ZOO-

(Top: my little brother, Ryan, Middle: Lauren and Ryan chasing a peacock, Bottom: polar bear chilling out)

THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY PARTY:

(Top: the happy couple, papa Jim and grandma Helena, Middle: the Miller cousins with great grandma Hope, Middle: garrett and me in our 50's outfits, Middle: my little sister Lauren and me, Middle: papa Jim and grandma Helena with their kids(my dad is on the far right with the glasses), Middle: grandma Helena and me, Bottom: my dad, maureen, brandon, matthew, ryan, lauren, garrett, and me (the Dan Miller fam.)

OTHER-

(Garrett and me in Downtown Denver)

(Saying goodbye to grandma and grandpa)

It was a really good trip and I am so glad we were able to make the loooooong drive to Colorado to see them. It was definitely worth it!

My My My

2009-08-12T17:15:00.000-06:00

Well, Garrett and I got back to Moscow last night from a 6 day trip to Kiowa, Colorado. It is a little town about an hour SE of Denver. We were taking this trip with my dad and family to celebrate my grandparent's 50th wedding anniversary. I am so proud of them for sticking through the hard times and making it 50 years! It is such an accomplishment.
We had a great time and did some great things: went to the Denver Art Museum, the Denver Aquarium, Denver Zoo, shopped, ate, talked, and on Saturday had a 50th anniversary party!
I will post pics soon...I lost my camera's battery charger again! I really don't know how that keeps happening!
I had an interview scheduled at a denist office this morning and so we hurried back so I could get ready for that. So, I show up this morning and the lady I had the interview with tells my they hired someone while I was on vacation and they had dental experience, so they gave the job to that person. She said she forgot to call me! I couldn't believe it. I thought it was so inconsiderate that she didn't call and let me know. I was also heartbroken because I have been searching and applying like crazy to jobs since we moved here in May and this was only my 2nd call back...I thought I was going to get it. I was so dissapointed. I just started crying the second I got back into my car...what can you do, though? Every one keeps telling me that God will provide in His own time and I know that to be true, but it is still dissapointing and frustrating. I will just keep praying and trusting God with it all.
I am now getting settled back home. I still need to unpack. But, I have put away some things, went grocery shopping, filled the car back up with gas, dropped Garrett off at work, mailed bridal shower invitations, bought Jess and Trent a shower gift, and now am about to clean the kitchen and make some cupcakes.
I am tired and a little sad. But, I know that everything will be okay. :)

Updates, Trips, Jobs and Cupcakes

2009-08-04T18:09:00.000-06:00

Things have been pretty busy around here. We have had multiple family members come and stay with us this past week. Garrett's mom came up for a weekend and then my mom and brothers came a few days after that.

It is always nice to spend time with family and we had a fun time. Here is a few pics of my family on our hike up Moscow Mountain:

Garrett and I are going to have another busy week because we are leaving tonight for a week long trip to see my dad's side of the family in Colorado. It is my grandparent's 50th anniversary and they are having a big party for it. It will be so much fun to spend time with them and get a break from hectic life here in Moscow. :)

I will definitely be posting pics of our trip when I get back.

I have been applying to SO many jobs that I can't keep track of what I applied to and what I didn't! And finally I have a job interview! This trip is sort of in the way, but luckily they were very willing to wait for me to return! I am just praying and praying that I will get this job. It is at a pediatric dentist office here in Moscow as a receptionist. I think I would just love it! So, prayers for that would be greatly appreciated...my interview is August 12th @ 10 AM.

I would also appreciate prayers for a safe trip to Colorado as we are driving and it is a 13 hour drive from Boise.

On a lighter note, I am starting to have a new dream/goal in my life (besides being a mom, growing my business June Tree Designs, and serving in a women's ministry)....it is to own my own cupcake bakery! I don't know how serious about it I am, but I like the thought and have been making cupcakes like crazy! Here are the pics of my two favorites that I have made so far:

Red Velvet Cupcakes with Buttercream Frosting

Cookies and Cream Cupcakes

Fun stuff. :)

Well, that is it for now...and I won't take so long in between posts next time! :)

Freedom

2009-07-08T15:58:00.000-06:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful 4th of July! It was pretty low key for us. Garrett had to work earlier that day and since we don't really know anyone up here yet, it was just the two of us.
We played some basketball at the park, did a little shopping, and then that night went into Pullman,WA for a firework show.
It was so amazing. There were tons and tons and tons of people in the city park with a live band and at 10 PM they had a huge display of fireworks. Garrett and I were right beneath them. We laid in the grass facing towards the sky and just took in the beautiful display. They were so close to us, I couldn't believe it.
Sitting there with Garrett watching such beautiful fireworks in celebration of our freedom really put things into perspective for me. Things are tough right now with me not having a job, but I am very blessed. I wouldn't trade my life for anything. Not only do we live in a free country, but we are free from sin and death by the power of Christ...can't get any sweeter than that.

Hiking Day

2009-07-03T13:12:00.000-06:00

Garrett and I found a great trail up Moscow Mountain this last weekend. We planned to go hiking on Garrett's day off and we wanted to get an early start, so Garrett woke up at 6 AM and I woke up at 7:30 AM...haha. Garrett wasn't too happy about that, but I was. :)

We packed a lunch, a couple water bottles, a GPS, and our camera and headed out.

The trail was a total of 7 miles up the mountain...very tiring. Needless to say that we didn't make it the entire way!

It was so beautiful. I haven't been on a trail like that in years. It was a small dirt trail twirling up the side of the mountain, surrounded by pine trees, plants, and a creek. It was just breathtaking.

We were out there for a total of 3 hours.

I took a lot of pics of the pretty surroundings, but not really any of us. There is one of me and one of Garrett...none of us together. :( Oh well, maybe next time.

Garrett and I both agreed that this day officially kicked off our summer.

Here are some of the pics from that day:

*a cool mailbox we found on the way to the trail*

A RaMbLe HERE a rAmBlE there

2009-06-25T18:00:00.000-06:00

After a month of applying I finally had my first interview today! I have never applied to so many places without getting an interview! I felt so thankful that someone had finally called me back.
I was pretty nervous beforehand, but I think it went pretty well. He still had more interviews to go through, so he couldn't tell me if I was going to be hired or not. I will find out on Tuesday or Wednesday when he is finished interviewing.
All I can do now it wait...I did the best I could.
I REALLY want this job, though. I NEED this job!
But, I know that God will provide and now I just have to be patient and keep applying other places in the mean time. I still could use prayer concerning this. Thanks for all the prayers so far. I feel so lucky to have so much support behind me. :)

It has been so much colder up here in Moscow. The last few days have been rainy and windy. I actually wore my winter coat to church on Sunday! Crazy.
Last night was a little bit warmer, so Garrett and I took a bike ride. It was really nice.

Has anyone been watching the Bachlorette? She is really starting to frustrate me! Why does she continue to keep Wes around? I can't stand him. I thought Jake would make it to the top 3, but for some reason she eliminated him last week! Why can't she give any of these guys reasons for why she is eliminating them? Oh well.

That is about all of my rambling for now.
I better go make some cookies before I pick up Garrett from work. So, snickerdoodles here I come!

Update Central!

2009-06-18T18:01:00.000-06:00

Well, I finally have my battery charged and pictures loaded on the computer! Yay! So this post will mainly be photos that I haven't been able to post for a month.

Our Apartment:

*Yes, the kitchen and bathroom have pink counters! Nice, huh. haha. I don't have a good pick of the office because it is our last priority right now and itsn't put together yet.*

Spokane & Silverwood Theme Park:

*That is the Spokane River in the picture. We are stading in front of the "CorkScrew." A roller coaster at Silverwood theme park that is located right outside of Couer d alene.*

Snake River Picnic:

*This park of the Snake River feels more like a lake. It is more calm and people can fish and swim. There is a big picnic area right by the river and we had a great picnic dinner there one warm evening.*

Water Tower:

*Here is Garrett in front of the U of I water tower. We say that we are Vandals now, but will always have Boise State in our hearts. :)*

This is about it for now! I hope this enough catching up for at least awhile. :)

Life in Moscow...

2009-06-01T13:47:00.001-06:00

Well, I still haven't found my camera battery charger and my battery is too low to upload the photos onto my computer! I have a ton of photos I want to share... I guess I will have to just buy a new one.
But, until then I will share what we have been up to this last week:

*Got Dish Network. (without cable or dish you don't get any channels up here, not even ABC or NBC!)
*Been riding bikes like crazy. There are a couple great riding paths right next to our place.
*Been applying to jobs like crazy...still no real leads yet.
*Garrett was given a key holder position at work.
*We went to a church in Moscow last Sunday, and yesterday we went to one in Pullman that Lyndsey Vincent reccomended. We loved it and are so excited to get involved there! It is called Real Life Ministries.
*I have been working on June Tree Designs more. I am coming up with a couple new stuffed animals and will be posting some new hair barrettes and necklace pendants soon.
*We went to Spokane. It was beautiful, because the Spokane River runs right threw the town and they have a few walking bridges where we stood above it and looked down...a little bit scary.

That is about it for now. Hopefully next time I blog I will have pictures to share and news of a new job! :)
(which I could use prayer about. :) Thanks!)

Oh yeah, and check out Garrett's new blog http://garrettsanchezdesigns.blogspot.com.

Today

2009-05-23T18:52:00.000-06:00

It was a gorgeous day today here in Moscow. Garrett had to work, but got off at 2, so we decided to go to the campus's Botanical Gardens. It was so pretty. We walked around for an hour and then came home for dinner. I made cheeseburgers and corn on the cob. Yes, that is right, corn on the cob! I was so excited when I saw in the grocery store. It is one of my summer and fall time favorites!
I think we are about to watch a movie and then will call it a night. Tomorrow Garrett has off, so we are going to try a church in Pullman, WA (7 minutes away) and then we are going to go up to Spokane to visit. It is only 1.5 hours from here.
We have taken some photos, but can't find our battery charger, and our battery is too low to load the pics on the computer. That means I have to buy a new one and then I can take more pics and post them for you!
Well, that's all for now.
Miss you all- so much. :)

We Are HERE!

2009-05-20T10:38:00.001-06:00

Well, we made the 5.5 hour drive up to Moscow in one piece and now we are in our new apartment!
We had such a busy past 4 days that the time has just flown by! I still have a lot of unpacking left to do. I hope that within the next 2 days I will have this place looking and feeling a bit like home.
I am so mixed with feelings right now. I am excited for this big step in our lives and how this move will effect our future, but I am also very sad to be away from all my family and friends.
I really am praying that God will provide us with a good church and friends while we are up here. I also am praying that I can find a good job quickly.
Our apartment is so roomy compared to what we were living in before! I actually have counter space and a double sink! Oh, and an actual bathtub! Woohoo! haha.
I will post pictures soon, once I get everything looking how I like it. :)
Thanks to everyone for all the thoughts and prayers for us. We love and miss you!

Moving Stress

2009-05-14T13:31:00.001-06:00

I can't believe how quickly the time is passing. We are leaving for Moscow this Monday! Only 4 more days living in my beloved Boise. :(
I must admit that I starting to stress a bit with all there is to do.
Tomorrow is both Garrett's and my last day of work. Weird.
I just got done having a "goodbye lunch" with my dad. Sad.
Still left to do:
1. Pack
2. Pack
3. Pack
And...
PACK!
We also have to pick up the U-Haul, load it, clean the house, load the church's furniture back into the house that they had before we moved in, dinner with friends and two different dinners with family.
I am trying not to worry and trying not to be sad yet, but I am. So, I am praying that God would calm my nerves and help me to be excited for this great step in our future!

God is ALWAYS Full of Surprises!

2009-04-30T09:49:00.000-06:00

What a week it has been. You can go to sleep at night thinking one thing and by the time you wake up the next morning everything has changed...
This is what has happened to Garrett and I. We have been planning for quite some time now to head up to the University of Idaho for Garrett to start and finish his education in Architecture. We were planning on moving up to Moscow in July, well, God had different plans.
Garrett's job was transfering him to a store they have in Moscow, they told us the position will become available in May and that they will hold it for him. Well, a few mornings ago I woke up to a phone call from Garrett at work saying that they cannot hold it for him that long and to take the position we have to move up there in May! I was shocked...that is 3 weeks away!
Like I said God is full of surprises.
So, Garrett and I are moving up to Moscow officially on May 18th.
God is working everything out. We fully believe that He is putting everything together in such a way that it could only be Him. We are just praising Him!
We are sad to leave Boise and so soon, but are so excited to work towards our future and our goals and can't wait to see what God has in store for us next. :)

Easter

2009-04-16T12:44:00.000-06:00

What a great Easter this year. We had an amazing church service! The place was packed, the music awesome, and the sermon what touching! Perfect.

The weather was simply gorgeous. Garrett and I went to take pictures, but our tripod broke, so we didn't get very many and they didn't turn out very well. Here is one of my brothers:

Then we went to my grandma's house for dinner (even though it was at 1 o'clock) and time with the family. It was so much fun! The dinner was delicious! Ham, asparagus, potato casserole, rolls, deviled eggs, veggies, crackers and dip, and of course candy and pie!

We spent the afternoon talking and hanging out. The cousins then decided to have an Easter egg hunt and everyone...including grandma...joined in!

So much fun!

My grandma still makes Easter baskets for all of us grandkids even though most of us are out of high school. :) In one of our eggs was $10! So, afterwards Garrett and I went shopping to spend our money! haha. We ended up each getting a shirt. They were both on sale...conviniently $10 each!

It was such a great Easter...one of the best ever. :)

Thank you Jesus for dying for my sins and for raising again! We serve a living God! Praise the Lord!

mY LiFe...

2009-04-09T13:55:00.000-06:00

I haven't written in awhile... mainly because our internet hasn't been working, so I have been having to go to my mom's house to use her internet.
Some things have changed around here a bit. I am no longer cleaning offices at night. Kind of a relief, but left me jobless for a couple of days.
But, God definitely provided for us by giving me a new job in 2 days! And I only had to apply to 2 places! Amazing.
I start that new job today...in 1 1/2 hours actually. It is a part time job at Tuesday Morning. It is a discount home goods store. I like retail jobs and have experience in this area, so it should be good.
I am afraid part of my paycheck might slip away each month to things I find in the store! haha. They have so much stuff and a bunch of different stuff each week.
I am so nervous right now as I wait for my first day to begin. I can't get my mind on anything else.
I am just praying that it will go well and will go by quickly. :)
If you want feel free to pray for me too. :) hehe.

Besides that things have been good. Garrett is getting more hours at work and we are able to start mowing the church lawn once a week, so God is really providing.

Our small group had a party this last Sunday and it was a really great time. We had people bring their friends, Christian or not, just to get to know eachother and have a good time. We had tacos, sundaes, played poker (not me :) ), and watched "The Office." Hopefully, we will see some of the new faces at our next small group meeting.

That is about it for now. Just preparing everything for U of I, paying off debts (yay!), and enjoying these little snipets of nice weather.

Oh, what a life. :)

Our First...

2009-03-22T17:10:00.000-06:00

Car together! We have been thinking about getting a new car for months now and finally got one about a week ago! It is our biggest purchase made together as a couple and it was very exciting, yet stressful.

It is a 2004 black Jeep Liberty Sport. I really really like it. Garrett has been so protective of it that he has washed it about 3 times since we have gotten it! haha. There is really no point in keeping it so clean in March...it is bound to have some kind of precipitation.

It turns out that I couldn't go to Garrett's cousin's wedding in WA because I couldn't get off of work. :( boohoo.

So, Garrett and his fam headed off on Friday at 5 AM without me. It is always hard for me to be away from Garrett. The first few days I was fine, but today I am really missing him.

Last night I spent the night with Jessica since Trent is out of town too. Girl's Night! We ate good food, talked of course, and watched some chick flicks!

Tomorrow I am planning on working on my sewing until he gets home. I am not sure what time on Monday to expect him, but I will be waiting anxiously all day!

3.16.2009

2009-03-17T13:19:00.000-06:00

Was my birthday. My 21st birthday to be exact.

It was more of a laid back day that consisted of me shopping by myself for a few clothing items, going out to lunch with my mom, and then out to dinner with Garrett when he got off work. We went to McGrath's Fishhouse, which was delicious, but I was still full from my lunch with my mom. Too much food! haha.

Garrett got me a very special birthday gift....a new ring wrap to go around my engagment ring. My wedding band before was a plan white gold band and it was beautiful, but he decided to enhance it with a new band now that we are older. It was so sweet he got down on one knee to give it to me and it is so gorgeous! I love it.

Tonight I am heading over to my dad's house for some cake and icecream and then my birthday will be "officially" over. :(

That is until next year... :)

Shower, Cookies, Job

2009-03-12T09:42:00.000-06:00

Good news...our shower is fixed! Woot Woot! haha.
It is so nice to be able to shower at our place, do the dishes again, and run water to brush our teeth with! (I never thought I would say that it is so nice to do dishes. haha)
I am very excited for tomorrow. Garrett and I are taking Trent and Jessica's engagement photos. It is going to be a lot of fun...and a perfect day for it.
I splurged a little yesterday and bought some St.Patrick's Day cookies from the store bakery. This is a splurge for us. When Garrett saw I had bought them he got so excited and started gathering up his glass and milk. I had to stop him to say, "these are expensive cookies, you can only have two a day..." We will see how long they will really last. haha.
We are still looking and thinking about a car. We got pre-approved for a loan. Now we just have to find the right car at the right price. This might take awhile...
I have applied to a job at Other Mothers and am really hoping I get it, so if you could pray for me on this I would really appreciate it!
Not much else going on, so until next time-have a good week. :)

This Week

2009-03-06T11:06:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here enjoying a warm house. Looking outside makes me squirm a little bit. I am so ready for spring...along with the rest of Idaho! haha.
My birthday is in the middle of March and is always so unpredictible on the weather. Some years it it sunny and warm and other it is snowing and raining! It made planning a birthday party very difficult for me...thanks mom. :)
Things have slowed down this week compared to last and I am very grateful for that. Garrett and I have been able to hang out with friends quite a bit lately and it has been very fun. It will be hard to try and make new friendships like the ones we have now when we move to Moscow. :(
On an unfortunate side, our shower is broken AGAIN! This is the second time now within a few months. It is flooding whenever we run any water throughout the house. So, we can't use the shower, we can't do the dishes, and we can't run the water in the bathroom for very long.
The plumber came out yesterday but couldn't fix it, so I am waiting to hear from a different plumber today to see what he can do.
In the meantime, Garrett and I travel 3 minutes to my grandma's house to shower in the morning. I am now trying to figure out a way to bring my dishes to her house as well so that I can wash them there! haha. Hopefully, I won't have to do that and the drains will be unclogged today! :)
Well, that is about it for now. Garrett and I are going out tonight to watch a ceremony for Kamica being in the National Honor Society. So, that will be nice and a great honor for her. Good job, Mica!
Until next time, have a great week!

A Shot at Fame??

2009-03-04T13:02:00.000-07:00

No, not really. But, Garrett and I might be in the background of a show called "Diners, Drive-Ins, and Dives."

The show came to Boise and will be here for 3 more days. We found out from the Lewis family that the show was coming to shoot an episode at the Westside Drive-in yesterday from 1:30-3:00. So, of course I called my mom and we all headed up to the drive-in to have our chance to meet Guy Fieri and possibly be on television!

It was so packed. There was probably about 50 people in the small drive-in. There was absolutely no seats left. So, we orded our food and tried to eat standing up. Guy came out for his first interview with a man who was seated right in from of where Garrett and I were standing.

We think we were in the shot, but they didn't ask us to move because we looked natural...not looking at the cameras and we were eating and talking with eachother.

There were some women standing behind us just watching and the coordinator guy asked them to move out of the way because they were in the shot. So, Garrett and me figured that if they were in the shot we definitely were! But we were never asked to move!

I am not sure when the show will air, but I am excited to see it and see if I can catch a glimpse of myself eating my philly cheesesteak sandwich! haha.

My little brothers got an autograph from him and their pictures with him. It was a pretty fun day.

What a Week

2009-03-02T10:30:00.000-07:00

I am so thankful for this new week.
For a variety of different reasons last week was rough! More than rough, it was emotionally draining and just plain awful.
I am ready for a new and fresh week! Mercy comes with the morning, right? I am, however, grateful for many things this month.

Here are a few things I am looking forward to this March:
1. The Bachleor final episode tonight!
2. Garrett starting on the church worship team
3. Attending Kamica's National Honor Society ceremony
4. My 21st birthday on March 16th
5. Going up to Port Angeles, WA and Seattle for a weekend to see Garrett's family and celebrate a wedding with them
6. Our small group's 30 Days No Regrets party
7. Spending each Sunday night with friends

So, I am choosing to look forward to these things instead of focusing on the hard things of the past.
I am feeling better already. :)

What a Surprise!

2009-02-20T14:56:00.000-07:00

Garrett came home from a work meeting on Wednesday with news that he was taking me out. So, he made me change into a dress, came back to "officially" pick me up with a dozen roses and the car washed.
It was a nice way to be surprised.
He was going to take me to Tony Roma's which we had a coupon for in our Entertainment Book. I asked if he knew where it was and he said yes. So, we headed out towards Meridian where the coupon said the resturaunt was. After driving around a bit we had to call Garrett's dad to confirm online where exactly the street and address was.
He found it online and said it was next to Winco and The Home Depot (Main and Corporate). So, we drove over and looked and looked. What did we find?? No Tony Roma's! We found the building where we think it was supposed to be, but it was being made into a new resturaunt. We called the number on the coupon, but of course no answer!
What a pain. Instead of getting irritated we tried to be positive and just drove over to the resturaunts near Edwards. Bytheway, Garrett had a worship team tryout that night at 8:15..it was 6:30 at this time so I am starting to get a bit nervous. This is what happens when the guy plans the date spontaneously. haha.
We ended up eating at Johnny Carino's and it was delicious! We had a good time and he made his tryout in time.
I am very grateful for the whole surprise and want to thank Garett for planning it and thinking of me!

Valentine's, Work, and Hair

2009-02-18T14:55:00.000-07:00

I feel like the days have just been flying by lately! I have just been working, doing my daily household chores, and working on new sewing creations, but for some reason I feel so busy!

In this hard economic time I have been blessed by actually recieving more work. I have been give 6 new offices to clean over the weekends, so that is really a help.

Valentine's day has come and gone. Garrett and I celebrated on Wednesday last week because he had to work until 5 on Saturday. We went downtown to watch the Special Olympics, ate lunch at West of Philly, came home and relaxed, then we had fondue at home while we watched a classic romance movie ("An Affair to Remember").

On Saturday we had dinner at my grandma's house, which was nice.

On Sunday Garrett and I decided to get our hair cut. I haven't had a cut since July! So, it was about time. We both felt refreshed and new after our hair cuts.

Here is a picture of my "new" hair. It is just 3 inches shorter, re-layered, and more bangs.

I am really pleased with it, though.

Well, that is about it for now. Not too much, but that is okay with me. :)

On My Mind

2009-02-11T15:12:00.000-07:00

Do you ever get something on your mind and you can't stop thinking about it?
That is what I have going on right now with a few things.
#1- Sewing. I can't stop thinking about it. I keep trying to come up with new things to make, but I have hit a bit of a wall. I am currently working on a mobile for a mobile exchange I signed up for. I need to have it in the mail by Feb.28th.
#2- A new car. This has been consuming my thoughts for the past couple of days. The car I have now I have had since I was 16 and I am ready for a new one. I want a younger looking and bigger vehicle. I have been researching used cars online and am really excited to get a new one! My current car will go back to my mom, who has graciously been paying for it since she gave it to me when I was 16. What a blessing!
The timeline for buying one is looking like it will be in May (once Garrett's Art Institute loan is paid off in April.)
Anyways, my mind is full of sewing and cars. What a combo. haha.

This Weekend

2009-02-09T11:07:00.000-07:00

What a busy weekend! Garrett and I had the chance to stay at the Harrington's house Friday and Staturday to watch the kids. I can't believe how much energy little kids have! They are like the energizer bunny. haha.
We had fun playing at the park, playing soccer in the back yard, going on walks, playing board games, and watching a couple movies.
It was kind of fun getting to spend the night in a different place for a few nights. But by Sunday morning I was worn out! It made me realize that I am very lucky to be able to have the freedom to do what I want to in my free time. I think that I should try and treasure this freedom I have right now because once I have baby it is gone! haha.
It was fun, though.
We got back home after church on Sunday and had to unpack, clean the house, and go grocery shopping. Once that was done we put taco stuff together for our small group at 5.
This was our first meeting for the new "semester" and we have DOUBLED in size from last time! Last week our group had 7 people...we now have 16! Wow.
It is always kind of awkward meeting people for the first time. But it turned out well and I think that it will be a really great study and group.
After our small group (that got over at 7) I went to go clean 2 offices. THEN Garrett and I watched a movie with some friends.
I didn't end up going to bed until 1 AM.
After such a busy weekend I am pooped! haha. :)
I am looking forward to today. Just doing a few chores, the laundry, and a little shopping for some gifts. Ah, so relaxing.:)

Free Time

2009-02-04T22:58:00.000-07:00

I feel like I have been consumed with sewing lately. It is funny, because Garrett got a new game for the computer, Sim City, the same day I started sewing. So, it seems like whenever we have free time at home we are doing the same things: him playing Sim City and me sewing.
He is going to go to school for architecture, so he wanted to get Sim City because you get to build cities. He says it is preparing him for school...but I think it is just another video game. haha.

I have some friends to share that I have made the last few days. Enjoy. :)

A Few More Sewing Creations

2009-02-02T13:05:00.000-07:00

(The bear is my own design. :) )

Trying New Things.

2009-02-02T08:55:00.000-07:00

I have been racking my brain lately trying to figure out different creative things to do and ways to challenge myself. I came up with sewing! I have only sewed one time in my life in 8th grade for a home ec class. I actually made a quillow (a quilt that can fold into a pillow.)

Anyways, that was quite awhilte ago.

So, I took a trip to Barnes and Noble and ending up buying a book to help me sew a few things.

Here is what came out of my first experience hand sewing:

After 2 hours of reading about the different types of stitching and actually trying to do it, I was thrilled to see the results. Of course it is far from perfect, but I was pretty proud for my first time.

I am excited to ask my dad for a sewing machine for my birthday and then see what I could possibly make!

All I have to say is sewing is a blast!

hehe.

To Do

2009-01-30T15:13:00.000-07:00

I am stressing about what I need to do within the next few days so here is my way of easing my mind: a to-do list. :)

Friday:
1. Grocery shop
2. Return movie to Hastings
3. Go to Post Office
4. Work Out
5. Make dinner

Saturday:
1. Put Valentine gifts together for small group
2. Make spinach dip for Super Bowl
3.Work Out
4. Church @ 5
5. Make dinner

Sunday:
1. Small group meeting @ 12:15
2. Clean American General
3. Buy bread for spinach dip
4. Make chicken wings
5. Super Bowl party @ 3:30 till whenever!

Ah, I am feeling myself breath finally. I am a list junkie. I am constantly making lists, but that is okay because they are my biggest helper. ;)

Sweet Valentines

2009-01-29T13:19:00.001-07:00

I always loved Valentine's Day. I remember getting so excited in elementary school when we would make our own Valentines bag. This is where people would put our valentines the next day. I loved putting together candy and cards for all the kids in my class.
The boy that I had a crush on (whoever it was that month- hehe) would get a valentine that said something extra sweet on it and an extra perfect candy.
At school I would hurry through all the valentines to see what the boy had given to me. :)
Ah, those were the good days.

But, these days are still good too.
Garrett and I have a little tradition on Valentine's Day to go to a hot springs up near Hagerman. We have gone there for 2 Valentine's Days. So, we will continue that this year. I got him a very special Valentine's Day gift too. But, I can't say online since there is a slight chance that he might read this. :)

Anyways, I was just pondering about my past and future Valentine's Days and thought I would share. :)

Swapping Time!

2009-01-26T19:11:00.000-07:00

This is so much fun! A mobile swap! I am super excited to give this a try. I have never done a swap like this before, but thought I would just take a leap of creative faith and do it. I hope you will too! Click here to sign up for Elsie Marley's swap!

Just Some Tid Bits

2009-01-25T13:43:00.000-07:00

I have had quite a nice week. I was able to relax, work, play, and celebrate.

Our church had there name change celebration service yesterday and today. Broadway Ave.Baptist Church will now be known as Bridgepoint Church. Such an exciting time for us. I really like the name and can't wait to see what God has planned for Bridgepoint.

I had a fun lunch with my dad on Thursday at Fudruckers and a very nice lunch with my grandma at Chilis yesterday.

Garrett and I enjoyed a relaxing evening on Friday with his sisters, playing games and watching Enchanted.

I sold $22.00 worth of handmade goods from my shop yesterday, so with that money I bought myself some much needed new running shoes.

This afternoon we are relaxing with a movie, picking up the house, and then having our small group over. I must say, it has been a very nice week, indeed. :)

Our Priority

2009-01-19T13:02:00.000-07:00

God has been speaking to me so much lately about putting Him first. Sometimes it is so hard to live in this world. There is so much noise around me all the time it seems that it is hard to block it all out.
Garrett read me a verse yesterday: Luke 14:25-33 'Large crowds were traveling with Jesus, and turning to them he said: "If anyone comes to me and does not hate his father and mother, his wife and children, his brothers and sisters—yes, even his own life—he cannot be my disciple. And anyone who does not carry his cross and follow me cannot be my disciple.
"Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Will he not first sit down and estimate the cost to see if he has enough money to complete it? For if he lays the foundation and is not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule him, saying, 'This fellow began to build and was not able to finish.'
"Or suppose a king is about to go to war against another king. Will he not first sit down and consider whether he is able with ten thousand men to oppose the one coming against him with twenty thousand? If he is not able, he will send a delegation while the other is still a long way off and will ask for terms of peace. In the same way, any of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be my disciple. '

It really spoke to me about making God our first priority and doing everything that we do with God in mind. As His followers we represent His name and we should live our life in such a way that reflects that.
I need to be saturated in prayer, in His Word, and in positive thoughts always. Instead of getting caught up in the things of this world.
To help us with this Garrett and I are going to do a couple's devotional and pray time everyday with eachother. It is something we did early on in our relationship but it just kind of faded away. I think it is so important for us to grow close to God together and not just separately.
So, here we go trying to better ourselves and our relationship with God, as always. :)

Life Can Take Its Toll

2009-01-18T12:10:00.000-07:00

Sometimes I just get so tired from life. I will be feeling stressed and so busy all week and then, sure enough, I will wake up the next morning and life has knocked everything out of me.
So, that means that, yes, today I am sick.
I feel like I have just gotten ran over with a truck! ...Okay, so maybe it isn't that bad but I feel so wiped out.
Every time I get sick it always starts the same, with a sore throat! Yuck.
I just hope it won't last too long.
But that is just the way life goes sometimes.

Create, Create, Create

2009-01-13T18:27:00.000-07:00

I have been making hair barrettes like crazy lately! I just love putting all the different varieties together and seeing the final product. I have been making them for my shop, but also have made a few for myself to wear.

I have only sold two barrettes so far, but I am pretty pleased that people I do not even know are wanting my products. I even sold one to a girl in Singapore this last week! I am just excited to have something that I am working towards and to have the chance to work on a dream of mine. I am praying that someday June Tree Designs will grow and become my business that keeps me busy and brings in some money. But, time will tell. :)

Until then I am just enjoying creating.

Such Good Deals!

2009-01-08T15:30:00.000-07:00

Every time that I go to Target I always leave with things that I didn't plan on getting. Today I went to just get a few "essentials" and ending up leaving with 2 movies and the cutest measuring cups that I have ever seen! I love their Dollar Spot section. These measuring cups were only $2.50!

Last week I went to get a haridryer and also left with 2 movies. So, the last 2 weeks I have gotten 4 movies from Target! They were all on sale for $10 each. I bought P.S. I Love You, Hairspray, Zoolander, and I Am Legend (for Garrett). I almost got Iron Man and Madagascar today too!

Anyways, the conclusion is that I love Target, but should probably stop going there if I don't want to buy anymore movies! haha. But it is alright if I get more cheap things from the Dollar Spot. :)

So Much Family Time

2009-01-06T11:15:00.000-07:00

One of the things that I have noticed this year is how basically all of the Holidays are within a few months of eachother. We have Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas, and New Years. Not to mention all of the BSU football games that go on during this time. I mention this because there are so many family get togethers and then after January there is nothing.

Here is our family spending schedule during these months:

*Apprx. 3 football games @ grandma's house

*Halloween: Party @ grandma's house

*Thanksgiving: Trip to Oregon with Garrett's mom and family

*Christmas Eve: Get together with my dad's family

*Christmas Day: Morining and lunch with Garrett's family & dinner @ my grandma's house

*New Year's Eve: Party @ Garrett's family's house

*New Year's Day: Party @ my grandma's house

The next family get together I have to look forward to is SuperBowl, but other than that I will feel deprived from not enough family time!

Anyways, a suggestion from me to whoever is to spread the Holidays out more throughout the entire year.

So, this year on New Year's Day was very special at my grandma's house because all of the cousings were together. We haven't had EVERYONE together for a little over a year now. So, that was very special to grandma and the aunts and uncles.

Here is the last picture of all the cousins and grandma:

(We took new picture on New Year's Day but I don't have a copy of that yet. :) )

My 1st Sale!

2008-12-31T14:04:00.000-07:00

I made my first sale on Etsy! I was so estatic. She bought a pair of hair barrettes that I made. Here they are:

and they were shipped to Virginia this morning. I am so happy that someone actually liked what I had made! Yay!

Etsy Girl

2008-12-29T20:41:00.000-07:00

It is official! I am selling on Etsy! I created my shop tonight and am so excited for the chance to sell some of my photographs and creations. I really hope that this is the beginning of a great thing.
I just love to create and want to share my creations with the world!
I would really appreciate any help getting the news of my store out there. So basically tell everyone you know! haha.
Visit my store by clicking on the link on my side bar or visit angmarie316.etsy.com.
The name of my "store" is JuneTree Designs. So, please visit me there!
Thanks! :)

A New Year

2008-12-28T21:16:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that 2008 is almost over. What a year. Garrett and I have had a lot of changes in the last year. I finished my first year of college, lived in Portland and then moved back to Boise, had two different jobs, made new friends, met many different people, and made many good memories.
I feel like I am ready for a new year and sort of a fresh start. I don't make new year's resolutions because most of the time I never stick with them. But, I do feel like I want to make a few goals that I can accomplish in this new year.
Here are just a few:
*Spend more time outside. Just walking and enjoying the fresh air.
*Continue excercising. Move up from 3 days a week to 4.
*Eat at home more and drink more water than soda.
*Read my Bible every day.
*Find a new ministry to serve in.
*Create more.
*Go on a date with my husband once a week.
*Spend more time with my little brothers.
*Be a better friend.
*Move to Moscow, Idaho.
*Find a new job.
*Support my husband with his schooling.
*Become a mom...(this might not happen in 2009, but we will see :) )
*Love my enemies.
*Take up the violin again.
*Live each day to the fullest.

I think I can accomplish these, what do you think? :)

Oh No, Not NOW!

2008-12-22T16:00:00.000-07:00

I always dread this about this time of year; getting sick! I always try and keep health in my prayers around this time, because the last thing I want is to be sick on Christmas Eve and Day!
Well, I started feeling signs of being sick yesterday during church and sure enough I woke up this morning with a swolllen, swollen throat!
So, today is full of resting on the couch, eating soup, drinking orange juice, and taking a lot of AirBorne.
I am praying that I will be recovered by Christmas Eve. We have 3 different houses to go to between Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, so I have to be healthy!
Anyways, I would very much appreciate all of your prayers that not only me, but others would be healthy enough to enjoy Christmas with family!
Thanks~
And have a Merry Christmas!

Christmas came a little early this year...

2008-12-16T22:17:00.000-07:00

Yesterday and today have been so great! Yesterday my little brothers came over to have a snowball fight and to help me build a snowman. It was so cold outside, but really fun playing in the snow. Look at the picture of those huge icicles on our house! Our snowman turned out so cute! Then that night Garrett and I went to see my cousin in a Christmas concert (he was in the choir.)

Today a little bit of Garrett's and my spontaneous ways kicked in... We got home from running some errands tonight and on a whim decided to open our Christmas presents from eachother tonight! All of our presents were just sitting under the tree and we couldn't wait any longer. haha. I can't believe that we actually opened them 9 days early!

My mom said that we were pathetic for not being able to wait until Christmas. But, we didn't and tonight we had our own little family Christmas. Jack (our cat) opened his presents early too.

We will still have presents to open on Christmas Eve and Christmas day, so don't worry about us. ;) haha.

Anyways, Garrett got me some body spray, peppermint bark candy, some really nice mittens, and a stuffed animal that I have been wanting for months. It is a little bunny rabbit from Skunkboy Creatures on Etsy. It is so cute!

I got Garrett an electric razor, a book, pajama pants, a reading light, and a lot of candy in his stocking.

So, that is that...Christmas came a little bit early for us this year. :)

Baking Day!

2008-12-13T21:37:00.000-07:00

Every year my mom and I go over to my grandma's house to bake. My brother's also usually come, but their only job to sprinkle the sugar cookies! haha. We make fudge, sugar cookies, no bake cookies, pecan balls, skillet cookies, peppermint chip cookies, and more!

It is always so much fun just talking and eating all the yummy goodies afterwards. I left with SO much stuff! It is definitely a tradition that I hold dear to my heart and love doing every year.

*I forgot to take pictues throughout the day and so I only got a few at the end. The one with me, my grandma, and mom was taken by my little brother...hence the fact that we aren't really centered, but oh well. :)*