Image and video hosting by TinyPicImage and video hosting by TinyPic Image and video hosting by TinyPic Image and video hosting by TinyPic Image and video hosting by TinyPic Image and video hosting by TinyPic

Wednesday, November 9, 2011

Halloween Festivities 2011

 Better late than never, but, here we go...

This year for Halloween, Bobby was a race car driver.  He somewhat caught on to the fact that it was a Lightning McQueen costume, but told everyone that he was just a race car driver.  I wanted to make sure his costume was something that he was really interested in, but, also comfortable.  This kid cannot stand to wear a hat or jacket, so I had to be picky about how crazy his costume could be.

Photobucket

Of course, leading up to Halloween, we carved a pumpkin one weekend morning.

Evidently, the new thing now is to take the bottom off the pumpkin.  Makes total sense.

Photobucket

Out came all the pumpkin seeds... (I probably would've baked them, had I not been preggo and too tired to get all the gunk out.)

Photobucket

Here's the pattern Bobby chose.  And, yes, it was the most difficult one in the packet.


This thing took forever to carve!

Photobucket

Bobby got bored, and decided to play with an old Transformer.  Yes, I said Transformer.  My mother-in-law has saved some of Bob's toys from when he was a young'in.

Photobucket

The final product!

Photobucket

Photobucket

Onto some trick-or-treating!

We started out the evening sharing a chili dinner with some friends.

Photobucket Bobby, Reese, Luke, and Cooper

Photobucket Tara, Me, Volree, and Gina

Bobby and I do a sorority girl pose in our family picture.


Photobucket

He totally got the hang of trick-or-treating this year, and loved it!  He asked me for a few days afterwards when we would go again.

Photobucket

Dumping and checking out his loot of candy!

Photobucket

Photobucket

To close out the holiday, Bobby's school had a parade the next day.  It was hilarious and cute to see all of the kids dressed in their costumes.  A party in his classroom followed the parade.

Photobucket

Photobucket

Blessing the meal...

Photobucket

Oh, how I could eat him up - just like all of his Halloween candy! :)
Photobucket

Tuesday, November 8, 2011

Sprinkled!

Last night was a special night for me.  My sweet group of neighborhood friends, threw me a Sprinkle.  My good friend, and neighbor, Volree was also honored.  We are both due by the end of the month.  She's having a baby boy - Parker.  I can't believe that our babies are almost here!  It's been so fun being pregnant with her, and I hope that our little ones can grow up together!

The Sprinkle was such a sweet gesture, and I really appreciated everyone honoring Evie's upcoming arrival.  I'm so thankful to have these friends.  We are all such a support system for one another, and I can depend on them for anything!

PhotobucketFrom left to right:  Sabrina, Amanda, Gina, Volree, Me, Ginger, Kristin, Lexy, and Stefanie.




Both photos were taken by Stefanie L.
Photobucket

Monday, November 7, 2011

Bittersweet(ness) & a lot of mushy stuff...

I find myself becoming more and more excited for little Evie's arrival.  But, I also feel a little sad for the amount of time that we have left with Bobby being an only child (23 days or less!).  Giving Bobby the gift of a sibling is an amazing thing; yet, his little world will soon be turned upside down.  This afternoon, I put in Evie's last bit of clothes to be washed, and just held some of them in my hands.  They were so small.  I remember Bobby being that small.  Everyone warned me that time would fly by - and, it truly has.  And, people have also said that with each child, time goes by even faster.  Sigh.  

Lately, I've thought about my own childhood.  I had a great childhood, and wouldn't trade it for anything. Things were easy, innocent, and fun back then.  I want nothing more for my own children.  And, as a mom of soon-to-be two young children, I'm already feeling bittersweet about them growing up.  I tell Bob and my friends all the time, that I truly believe I'm living the best years of my life now.  And, that scares me.  Of course my days are tough.  So many things are a battle with Bobby.  I'm tired all the time.  I feel like I never live up to my potential each day.  But, I know that this is the season of life that I am in.  And, it's always what I wanted.  I thank God for that everyday, and for my husband, for providing me with this life.  But, days are fun.  I am constantly amazed at the new things Bobby does each day, and he is such entertainment for us.  It's so neat to see his little mind working, and trying to figure stuff out.

I've also neglected my blog a lot this year.  My posts compared to years' past are pretty pathetic.  I plan to change that.  I've always been too tired at the end of the day to blog.  And, naps are few and far between these days.  But, I'm going to try to make it work.  He's playing with his toys, while I am typing now.  And, yes, a football was thrown at my laptop, and I had to reboot.... but, that's motherhood for you!

I want to remember everything.  I want to cherish every memory; big or small.  I just want life to stand still for awhile.
Photobucket

Thursday, October 20, 2011

34 Week Appointment

 It is hard to believe that I'm already 34 weeks!  I was 34 weeks along when I had Bobby, so it feels kind of surreal to be at this point.  Everything with Evie is going well.  She measured right at 34 weeks, and her heart rate was a healthy 153.  She's still just as active as ever, and I sometimes think it amazes Bob, more than me.  He tries to poke back at her, and it is just too cute.  I have gained 2 lbs. in the last weeks, which puts my total weight gain at 18.5 lbs.  I am kind of shocked, because with Bobby at this point, I was around 26 lbs.  I guess chasing around a toddler all day really has it's advantages! Ha!

I was disappointed to hear that I have to start doing Contraction Stress Tests next week.  I really, really thought I wouldn't have to do the tests this time around.  So, needless to say, I will definitely have a bag packed and ready, starting next week.  As a matter of fact, I have a feeling, we may be doing a lot or the rest of our baby preparing this next week.  Oh, where has the time gone?

Photobucket
Photobucket

Wednesday, October 19, 2011

Pinning Insanity

 If you do not belong to the site, Pinterest, you are missing out!  And, for someone like myself, in full nesting mode - it is turning into quite an addiction! Pinterest is a virtual bulletin board where you can "pin" things you see online.  It's a much easier concept, than saving tons of bookmarks on your computer.   Plus, the icing on the cake is you can follow anyone who uses the site.  It coincides with Facebook, so you can automatically see all of the things your friends are pinning.  And, I am also following a few of my favorite bloggers too.  Here's a snippet from the website:

Pinterest lets you organize and share all the beautiful things you find on the web. People use pinboards to plan their weddings, decorate their homes, and organize their favorite recipes.
Best of all, you can browse pinboards created by other people. Browsing pinboards is a fun way to discover new things and get inspiration from people who share your interests. To get started, request an invite. (I can also send you an invite, which is quicker; I have heard.)
Here are a few of the projects I've pinned, that I would love to tackle before Evie's arrival!
I've got a curtain rod on Bobby's wall already, from his nursery decor.  I am thinking this would be a great way to display some of his artwork from preschool.

I am on the hunt for a monogram over Evie's crib, or dresser.
Source: None via Jennifer on Pinterest

Bobby has shown an interest in using the potty lately.  Do I want to tackle this project before the baby comes?  Or, wait until she is here, and we're stuck at home anyhow?

I am thinking of starting a tradition with Evie, and buying her the American Girl Doll of the Year, each year, until she does not show an interest in dolls any longer.  I loved playing with my doll growing up.  I am thinking I'll at least get her this doll, her birth year, especially since she is from Hawaii (Bob's birthplace.)

I have an old silver platter that I've never used.  I think it would look cute in my kitchen, and actually get used!

I would like to try something similar to this pumpkin.  

I'll keep everyone updated on whether or not these projects happen!  

Photobucket

Monday, October 17, 2011

Your Most Important Piece of Equipment as a Runner: Shoes

 Here's an article I wrote for a local running website in 2009.  The principles still hold true today.  This article is pretty long-winded, but I hope you find it informative - especially if you are new to running! 

P.S.  This was written when I worked for Birmingham's Fleet Feet, a running specialty store.

The first time I was fit for running shoes occurred during my early twenties.  I had a new boyfriend, and playing the "supportive" girlfriend, I started running - just as he did.  So, off we went to a running speciality store one Saturday afternoon.  I have to admit, I don't remember too much of this experience, because it happened so quickly.  The store wasn't too busy, but had it's fair share of customers.  We were helped by an employee, and were out the door minutes later.  I walked away from the experience with some new shoes (Nikes).  The only piece of advice I truly recall from that day was to always buy Nikes that were of the Bowerman series.  That's it.  Nothing else.

Now, the first time I was PROPERLY fit for running shoes occurred just over two years ago.  By this time, I had a new man in my life (my now husband), and we decided to seriously take up running as part of a lifestyle change.  I had been running in some shoes that were purchased at DSW.  They were cute.  As my running became more intense, I started feeling pain in my groin area.  At the time, I did not realize that my shoes could be the culprit, but I figured I needed some new shoes anyway.  Upon a neighbor's suggestion, we visited our town's local Fleet Feet Sports.  

The difference between these two experiences is worth mentioning.  In the first store, I was simply told to walk a few steps, and asked what my shoe size was.  That was it, no frills there.  The second store, Fleet Feet, actually took their time with me.  The employee, Jennifer, asked me several questions about my training.  How many miles a week was I running?  What shoes was I wearing?  Did I feel any pain? BINGO!  I explained to her that I was running less than 5 miles per week, being a renewed runner.  I also informed her of the pains I was feeling in my groin.  Upon that information, Jennifer was able to begin the "fitting process", that is now well-known with Fleet Feet customers.  

I have your attention, right? Because I now have a confession.  Due to my experience with Fleet Feet Sports (Orlando), I too, am now an employee of Fleet Feet Sports (Birmingham).  Here's my shameless plug for the article (fleetfeetbirmingham.com).  So, with that being said,  I would like to encourage you to find a local running speciality store in your area. It is best to find one where they will actually take their time and educate you on the importance of wearing the right shoes for running.  After all, it is your most important piece of equipment, if not only.

As a runner, and consumer, you should know what to look for when being properly fit for running shoes.  Some stores have equipment to help with the process, such as treadmills, or video cameras.  Other stores do not.  Do not be alarmed if your store does not have the "extra" equipment.  I promise you that you can be helped just as equally with a trained set of eyes, and a Brannock foot measuring device.  Before heading out the door, if possible, grab your current running shoes.  Although it is not necessary, it is always nice to know what a customer is currently running in.  And, you may want to bring an extra pair of socks, but, I'll tell you more about that later.  And, most importantly, be open to suggestions and recommendations.  If possible (women, don't wince) choose your shoes on how they fit and feel, instead of how they look.  You will thank me later for this.  

As mentioned previously, Jennifer asked several questions prior to me being fit my second time.  This is important.  If you are new to running, or an avid runner, we need to know.  Are you feeling pain? How many miles a week are you running?  How old are your shoes?  Do you wear orthotics? What size are your current shoes?  What kind of socks do you wear?  With this information given, the fitting process can now begin.  And, don't feel shy about giving this information up freely.  You may not be asked some or all of these questions.

The next step in the fitting process is usually your gait analysis.  This is where the set of trained eyes I mentioned, will come into play.  What is your gait analysis?  It is simply the pattern of how a person walks.  For example,  everyone who walks pronates.  Pronating is a biomechanical term for your foot striking the ground.  What most are looking for when watching a gait analysis, is whether a person overpronates, suppinates, or has a neutral foot strike.  Mostly everyone will either have what is called a neutral foot strike, or will overpronate.  It is rare to see someone that suppinates.  Overpronating is what your foot will do, if it turns inward while walking.  Suppinating is the opposite - your foot will turn outward.  A neutral foot strike is considered to be the ideal motion of the foot during running or walking.  This step in the fitting process should be done barefoot.  

Sometimes it may be difficult to see what type of foot a person has by their gait analysis.  This is where the reinforcement of the Brannock foot measuring device will be used.  At this point, you should be asked to be seated, so the measuring can begin.  Also, if you brought your socks along, go ahead and put them on.  If not, most stores have clean ones for you to borrow.  Typically, there are three types of measurements taken with the Brannock device.  The length of your foot is measured, along with the arch length, and width.  These measurements should be taken TWICE with each foot - once sitting, and once standing.  If you pay close attention, you will notice that your foot will have different measurements from your sitting to your standing position.  This is normal.  For example, you may measure at a size 6 while sitting down.  Upon standing, you measure at a size 7.  Now, you may be wondering how these measurements are helpful during the fit process?  These measurements determine many important factors in what will ultimately be the best shoe for you.  For starters, if your foot changed more than a whole size from sitting to standing, you overpronate.  Depending on the severity of it, you may need a stability or motion control shoe. A stability shoe, such as the Brooks Trance, or Saucony Hurricane will offer more support.  If your foot did not change in size, or changed only a half-size, you have a neutral foot. A neutral shoe, such as the Asics Nimbus, or Nike Pegasus, will offer less support, and more cushioning.  A motion control shoe, such as the Brooks Beast or Ariel, will offer what I call "mac daddy" support.  Width is also very important, because many times, people cram their feet into shoes that are too narrow.  Your shoe, in a sense, should fit perfect, like a glove.  But, you also want your foot to lay in the shoe with ample room.  No cramming allowed people!  Also, most running stores may recommend that you go up in size, but usually only a half-size.  Most people (myself included) were in shoes that were too small for them.  I was buying size 8 or 8.5 running shoes, until I was properly fitted. I am now in a size 9.5.  Your running shoes will typically be your largest shoes in your closet.  Running shoes are not made true to measurement.  Also, you will want that extra room in the toe box to help prevent blisters, ingrown toenails, and stacked toes.  Plus, your feet tend to swell when you've been running, or even standing on them all day.  

Once it has been determined what type of shoe you will need, it is time for the fun part.  You should be able to try on at LEAST three pairs of shoes to determine which ones are the best fit for you.  The employee should have done their job by only bringing out shoes that he or she would recommend.  At this point, it is a bit of trial and error to see which ones are most comfortable for you.  Just like falling in love, when you know, you know!  Don't put too much thought into it.  Go with your gut instinct.  

The last two parts of being properly fit is just as important as your shoes.  First, do you need an orthotic or insert?  If you feel any pain whatsoever, it is highly recommended to get an insert too, for your shoes.  This help solved my groin pain problem, mentioned earlier.  A new pair of running shoes will do wonders, but with an insert, you are putting your feet in the healthiest environment possible.  The purpose of an insert is to help keep your body in alignment - from your ankles, to your knees, to your hips, and then, your lower back.  This is healthy!  Again, I highly recommend this, and if possible, go with a brand such as Superfeet.  They carry different shapes, so you, as a consumer have options.  This is smart marketing on their behalf, because they have figured out that no two people have the same foot shape - d'oh!  Most running stores should be able to fit you for the insert as well. Secondly, what type of socks are you wearing?  In our store, we have a saying, "cotton is rotten."  Imagine your socks, as you would imagine your cotton towel you use when done bathing.  The cotton in your towel sucks up the moisture on your body, but then feels wet.  Well, your sock essentially will do the same, if it is cotton.  A wet sock will cause your feet to be smelly (oh, heaven forbid!), and cause blisters.  If possible, you should invest in some good socks with a wicking fabric to keep your feet dry.  Some tend to sweat a lot while running, while others may just like to run in the rain.  Either way, you want those toesies dry.  I recommend brands such as DryMax or Balaga.

Overall, the Runner's Trinity should be 1) the right shoe, 2) inserts or orthotics, and 3) dry-wicking socks.  With these three purchases, you'll be well on your way to having an optimal running experience.  So, what are you waiting for?  Go ahead and get FIT!


Photobucket

Monday, October 10, 2011

32 Week Appt.

Photobucket 

I had my 32 week appointment last Thursday.  Things are still going well.  The baby's heart rate was at 141, and I measured 31 weeks.  I wish I knew how much she'll weight at birth.  As for my weight, I had gained 1 lb, which puts my total weight gained at 16.5 lbs.  When I had Bobby at 34 weeks, I weighed 26 lbs.  So... either Evie will be a tiny one, or I'm doing much better this time around!  

I am craving sweets now, 24/7.  And, I think I have officially starting nesting.  Bob and I did some projects this weekend, and I warned him that it'll probably be like that until the baby is born.  I am so uncomfortable lately, and a good night's sleep is hard to come by.  But, I am getting more and more excited to meet our daughter!
Photobucket

Tuesday, October 4, 2011

Bobby's Big Move

 We've been preparing for Evie's arrival, little by little.  One of those preparations was moving Bobby from the crib, so Evie could use it down the road. Well, one of the BIG changes that occurred in our house was Bobby transitioning to his "big boy" bed.  I ordered his bed and bedding from Pottery Barn Kids.  I have had my eye on this bedding since Bobby was an infant.  It is just so versatile, and will grow with him.  I am not done with his room yet, but will post pictures once I am.

Photobucket

We bought his mattress from Costco, and it is SO comfortable.  You can't beat the price either!

Photobucket

Bobby was ecstatic when we revealed his new bed to him.  He went crazy jumping up and down, and screaming with glee.  Seriously, we had never heard that kind of excitement from him!  He is still talking about his "big boy" bed.

He sleeps great at night.  But, has only taken two naps in it.  We transitioned him last Monday.  He has been on the verge of dropping his nap, for almost a month; so I'm not too sure if it's the bed or not.  I just miss being able to keep him confined during his naps or "quiet time."
Photobucket

Tuesday, September 27, 2011

Bobby's First Day of Preschool

 We decided to enroll Bobby this year in preschool.  He is in 2K, and going two days a week.  His first day of school was September 8th.  He is having such a great time, and loves it so far.  He brings home one or two art projects each day, and proudly proclaims, "I made that!"  He loves seeing his work on the fridge.  And, because this is our family's blog - I get to brag a bit about him.  He has yet to cry when I drop him off, and is always so willing to go.  His teacher has also said that he has not cried in school once.  He follows directions well, and plays really well with another little boy in his class.  His class is small too - with 3 boys, and 3 girls.  Overall, we are all happy with this adjustment.

On his first day,  Bobby did not want to take the obligatory picture standing with his backpack.  So, I snapped a few, quick shots once we dropped him off at school.

Photobucket

Photobucket

He basically just runs to the toys in his class each morning, and forgets about me!  Case in point...

Photobucket

I am so thankful that this has been a positive experience.  Otherwise, I'm not sure how I'd handle it!
Photobucket

Thursday, September 22, 2011

30 Week Appointment

 I had my 30 week appointment today, and all is well.  The baby's heartbeat was in the normal range, and I measured right at 30 weeks.  Evie is a very active baby, and definitely keeps me on my toes! I lucked out, and also did not gain any weight in the past two weeks.  I have been walking more, so, that may be why.  I am so thankful that Fall is sometimes in the air lately...  As for everything else - I can't complain too much.  I have had to take Zofran a few times recently, which is weird.  I hadn't taken it since my first trimester, but have found myself nauseous every once in awhile.  I cannot seem to get comfortable either while sleeping.  I am just plain uncomfortable at this point! I want time to slow down, so we can continue to prepare for her arrival.  But, I also want her out! :)

Photobucket

Here's to 9 more weeks!
Photobucket

Wednesday, September 14, 2011

28 Weeks Update

 I had my 28 week appointment last Thursday.  All was well, once again.  I passed my Glucose test with flying colors.  And, I also received my Rhogam shot (because I have O- blood).  I'll receive another one after I deliver Evie (depending on her blood type).  I had gained 2.5 lbs. in 2 weeks.  Whoa.  So, now my total weight gain is at 15.5 lbs.  So far, so good...  

I am now going every 2 weeks, and once I reach 36 weeks (God, let's hope I do!), I'll go once a week.  We will also schedule my C-section during my 36 week appointment.  I had to do Contraction Stress Tests with Bobby, starting at 32 weeks.  I am hoping that I do not have to do that, this time around.  I am on new blood pressure medicine, so I'm definitely keeping my fingers crossed.

As for how I am feeling - I can't complain too much.  It is getting harder and harder to move around.  And, sleeping has just been a nightmare this entire pregnancy.  I am definitely feeling like I am on the home stretch!
Photobucket

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Recent iPhone Pictures

 I realize that I have not done a post in a long time, with some iPhone pictures.  Thank goodness for the Photobucket app on my phone.  It makes this process so much easier! I guess one of these days, I'll actually start blogging from my phone! :)

So, this is what we've been up to the past several weeks...


I snapped this picture with my phone, just as a big storm was about to hit the beach.  This was taken in July, when I was with my family, at New Smyrna Beach, FL.

Photobucket

During the same trip, Bobby is caught on my sister's iPhone camera, wearing his aunt's hat.  Isn't he the cutest?

Photobucket

We've taken Bobby to see two movies now.  The first one was Cars 2, and the second one was Winnie the Pooh.  Cars 2 (his first) was July 2nd, at 26 months. He did great during both, and lasted through the entire movie(s)!

Photobucket

I thought this was pretty clever of Bobby.  I told him during lunch one day, that he needed to eat his chicken nuggets.  So, what does he do?  He hides the remaining two, and stacks the rest of his lunch on it.  I guess he thought I wouldn't notice, lol.

Photobucket

Bob has been taking Bobby to a local establishment each Saturday afternoon for lunch.  They have been eating hot dogs at a glorified hot dog stand, for the past month now.  The name of the place is Tip Top Grill, and it has become their "thing" to bond over.  The restaurant sits atop a bluff that overlooks our neighborhood.  It is so funny to hear Bobby say the name of the restaurant.  His Southern accent really comes out!

Photobucket

Story time started back at the library a couple of weeks ago!  We are going to the 10:30 story time on Monday mornings, that is specifically for 2 year olds.  It is amazing to me how much more Bobby is participating this Fall, as opposed to this past Spring.  And, they do a craft at the end of each program, which has been fun.  With this, and now school, our fridge is starting to lose some empty space.  I don't mind one bit though.  Here's a random picture of Bobby playing in the preschool area.

Photobucket

Lastly, this picture was taken during our beach trip down to Panama City in August.  The master bedroom's bed, was probably the most comfortable bed I've ever slept in (besides our own).  Bobby seemed to like it too! :)

Photobucket
Photobucket


LinkWithin

Related Posts with Thumbnails