Jennings

Ugh.

2012-01-27T18:27:00.000-08:00

For me: It started with a sore throat.

For her: It started with a cough.

Then a fever.

Then snot. LOTS of it.

and a whole lot of crankiness.

Which resulted in this:

Ibuprofen, 3 boxes of tissues used in 3 days, and LOTS of Sesame Street.

Then this happened when I was making lunch, courtesy of Grace.

Which was when I tried this:

But it didn't work...she got through, so I literally ran over to my neighbors to ask her to watch Grace while I cleaned up the glass everywhere.

So, we've been combating the plague at our house. I think whatever it was is on its way out, but now after going to the doctors today we have a combined total of 7 medications that we are taking to beat this thing.

Grace has a double ear infection and whatever it was has made her start wheezing, so we are now the (not-so) proud owners of a nebulizer. Little girl has to do 3 treatments a day.

I also have fluid in both my ears and a sinus infection.

Even WITH Publix and their free children's antibiotics, we are still down $100 bucks today.

And we have to see this pitiful scene.

It breaks my mommy heart.

Dear Grace,

2012-01-23T10:52:00.000-08:00

Dear Grace,

It's all fun and games until someone gets hurt.

That's what my mom used to tell me.

Now I tell you as your mom.

But, when my mom told me...I don't think that she was the one who caused the hurt.

There we were, just playing as I pushed you around in your little walker. You laughed and smiled, and when I stopped, I gave it a little boost to dump you out onto the carpet.

Well, instead of bumping out forward, like I saw it in my head, you jumped out sideways.

And the corner of the ottoman just happened to be right where you fell.

It WAS fun and games, though, until you got that little bruise right above your right eyebrow.

That counts for something, right?

Sorry, baby girl.

I'll feed you some chocolate when you wake up from your nap to make it all better.

Love,

Mama

Smoothies and make-shift photoshoot

2012-01-21T18:57:00.000-08:00

Today, I decided that, since I had frozen strawberries and pineapple, I was going to make a smoothie for breakfast. Sad to admit, but I had never done this before. I started to make the smoothie, and it took me a while to get it to blended well. Then, I added some vanilla yogurt bites (freeze dried yogurt bites from Thrive). I opened up the blender, dipped my spoon in and tasted it. It was DELICIOUS! But then, I felt something on my tongue that tasted like some fruit skin that didn't get blended. My thought: Strawberries and Pineapple don't have skins that tough.

Then I pulled a tiny piece of plastic out of my mouth.

After a moment of "What in the world?"...I realized that when I dumped in the yogurt bites, I must have dumped in the preservative packet as well. Gross.

So, I had to call poison control...on MYSELF.

All is well, though. Turns out, those packets don't really harm you. She said worst case scenario would be a stomachache.

Sad that I had to waste the good fruit..but luckily I had enough to make another batch once I cleaned out the first try.

And it was totally worth it.

Even Grace couldn't get enough of it!

Also, I had grand ambitions of having a 'photoshoot' of our family this morning. I bought a Groupon a while ago for a canvas print, but it expires in February. I had a certain thing in mind for the canvas, so I was hoping to go out and self timer us a family portrait.

But today's weather had other plans. Like....RAIN. ALL. DAY.

So, since I had actually put on makeup, and blow dried my hair (a rare occurrence at my house) I decided to take a few snapshots with Grace.

And, although they aren't fancy or even that great...I love them.

But mostly...I love HER.

The only reason...

2012-01-19T19:06:00.000-08:00

The only reason I can find to like the new time change for church?

Home-made Cinnamon rolls.

Yum.

11am church is not so great when you have a baby who usually naps and eats lunch during that time. It makes for a very LONG day.

Winter finally came!

2012-01-19T19:02:00.000-08:00

With all our crazy weather here, it has been hard to really call it winter!

But, this week, we actually had some really cold days where we actually had to bust out the coats and hats!

Wagon rides!

Bubbles in the backyard. Which, with a one year old, means I blow bubbles while she tries to eat them.

sneaky face

I sure love this crazy, busy girl.

Luke the Spy

2012-01-19T18:48:00.000-08:00

My nephew Ammon was having a Spy-themed birthday party the other day, and I was at Cara's house while she was making the cake. The invitation said to dress in your best spy clothes...and Luke decked out in all black and topped it off with what we call his 'Bieber' hat.

Sneaky Luke

Grace didn't know what to think of Spy Luke.

I wish I would have been able to see the birthday boy, himself..but it didn't work out that day (or with a very CRANKY, tired girl).

13 months ( a month late)

2012-01-19T18:34:00.000-08:00

Our little Grace is getting to be not so little anymore.

I don't think I mentioned it before, but Grace is walking now. Actually, more like running.

Right after her birthday, she just took off and hasn't stopped since!

Luckily, she is a tough little girl, because for the first month she would run and then fall/headbutt/slide etc.

Can you tell we don't wear headbands a lot? I'll give you one guess as to why I don't put headbands on her anymore.

Where's your belly button, Grace? Um...you are lifting the wrong article of clothing...

Grace has also become very obsessed with her belly button. For a while, I had to put onsies on her because if I didn't, she would literally poke it so much, it was red and scratched up!

When Grace got fed up with my antics, I pulled out the big guns: Food. She immediately signed "more" and reached up for it! She is such a foodie.

Mom, are we done yet?

This is Grace's shrug. If you say, "I don't know" she automatically does this. I'm a little partial, but I think it is adorable.

Harris Christmas!

2012-01-19T18:02:00.001-08:00

Now, to the Harris Christmas!

We had to decorate Gingerbread men! (as seen previously, Grace LOVED eating the icing!)

Bergevin kids

We did tricks and stunts...

Lots of playing with Aunts and cousins

Luke looked scared to open his presents...and Livvy looking protective after I told her that all the presents were for ME.

Our yearly ornament exchange!

I sure love all my family. With all the siblings and kids, it is really LOUD and crazy, but I look forward to any time we get so spend together!

Jennings Christmas

2012-01-19T17:07:00.000-08:00

We had a really great Christmas. It was super busy (as usual) but very fun!

We got to be with Stephen's side of the family on Christmas day, and we did a ton of playing with the kiddos.

We didn't get a great pic of all the little 'gingers' but this was the closest we got to everyone looking and semi happy!

Grace enjoyed (while I fretted) the stairs, the little ones loved to tackle me, the kids LOVED playing with Grandmama, and we had to play some hide and seek (or dancing to Thriller...you take your pic on what Grace is doing in that picture!)!!

me and Sare-Bear, Double raspberries for Grace from Stephen and Maddy, Grace and Ben loving on each other, and Grace opening presents!

More presents and sweet cousins!

We had a great time, even though it did feel too short. But then again, that's how it always is when you're having fun!

Fort at ZiZi's house

2012-01-19T16:54:00.000-08:00

We love having ZiZi in town. I get to see my sister a lot more, and Grace gets to play with her favorite playmate, Livvy. Win, Win.

The other day we were visiting, and they had set up a fort that day. Little did I know that Grace was going to go balistic over it!

She would just run under it (and fall...as shown above) and sometimes just rest...

But mostly just RUN in circles under it!

I loved seeing her so happy with the fort, because I can still remember when Mary and I would build forts when we were kids. And I am happy that the legacy lives on.

Birthday

2012-01-01T18:10:00.000-08:00

There's nothing better than waking up from a Sunday afternoon birthday nap to the sounds of your little girl cackling to her Daddy's crazy antics.

Makes my heart happy.

Gingerbread men in pictures.

2011-12-29T16:56:00.000-08:00

Grace had her first experience painting Gingerbread men this Christmas.

I'll let the pictures tell the story.

Do you think she enjoyed it?

Waiting for Daddy...

2011-12-16T12:46:00.000-08:00

A certain little girl of mine LOVES her Daddy. I don't blame her. He is pretty awesome.

She loves to look out the window, and will sometimes whisper "Dada" over and over.

Today, I let her look out a new window that never really has the blinds up. She loved it...and she stood there waiting for Dada until I took her outside.

Too bad it was just 2pm. A few more hours to wait, dear one.

Really?

2011-12-14T14:35:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I was shopping, and as usual, I get stopped for some comment about my little girl and her red hair. This time, however, it was a new one.

This man stops me and asks, "Is she a natural red-head?"

No, sir...I dye my one year old daughter's hair.

Really? Did that just happen?

We need a little clarification.

2011-12-12T07:39:00.000-08:00

Last night, as a family, we went out to deliver some goodies to some friends. By the time we left the last house, it was past Grace's usual bedtime so we were a little worried how the ride home was going to be. Stephen began to strap her into her car seat, and in order to distract her I pulled the Ensign magazine from my lap, and showed her a picture of Jesus.

"Who's this, Grace?" I asked (obviously, not really expecting an answer)

She smiles really big and points to the picture.

Then, she loudly proclaims, "DaDa!!!"

I think we have a little explaining to do at our house.

I have a climber on my hands.

2011-12-01T08:06:00.000-08:00

This morning, I pulled Grace's toy basket off the shelf and let her start to pull things out. I walked away to do something, and then when I came back into the room, I found this.

Thinking she was stuck and needed help, I pull her out. Grace screams bloody murder. So, I put her down, and proceed to watch her hike her little chubby leg up, and boost herself BACK into the basket. She played contentedly in the basket for a while. Occasionally she would drop something out, lean out to get it, fall out of the basket, and then turn around and climb in again.

This is after, I was washing my hands in the bathroom, and Grace crawls in, pulls up on the bathtub, and jumps her back legs to projectile her headfirst into the tub. Luckily, I saw it coming, and I caught her inches from the tub bottom.

And yesterday, I put up a baby gate in the nursery door so I could take a shower while Grace played. I've done it before, and she really just plays nicely taking all the toys out of her chest, or opens all the doors on her little kitchen, or pulls all the books of the bookcase...you know...the usual.

Well, I'm in the shower rinsing the conditioner out of my hair, when I hear a weird crash on the baby monitor. I wait for a cry...nothing.

Then, I call our her name.

She answers with a little squeak, and I notice that she sounds closer.

As i'm getting out of the shower to investigate, Grace just waltzes in the bathroom grinning at me.

She had somehow pushed the baby gate down, and decided to come see me.

Really? Prison Break, already??

Guess what we did this week?

2011-12-01T06:43:00.000-08:00

yep....we put up this beast. And then we vacuumed for like an hour trying to get up all the needles.

I don't know if you can notice, but there are only three ornaments on the bottom half of the tree. The three ornaments are: a plush Grinch, a sock monkey, and a soft snowman.

I bet you can't guess why! haha

Grace has been instantly drawn to the Grinch. In fact, the first morning she came out and saw the tree, she beelined for the Grinch, and it did not leave her hand the entire day.

And the days since it has been the same. Every morning, she crawls over to the tree, picks the Grinch off the tree, and carries him around with her.

Guess we need to watch the Grinch.

Birthday Bash! (and SMASH)

2011-11-30T06:00:00.000-08:00

As said before, Grace's Birthday party was great!! The weather was just perfect, about 70, and the sun was out. We had her party at a park in Columbia and the kids all had a wonderful time playing! We had some drama getting the pavilion that we had reserved, because neither Stephen nor I remembered to pick up the key earlier in the week, and it turned out Friday (veteran's day) was a holiday for the government building. Ugh. But, with some blessings and answers to prayers, I was prompted to go to a nearby building to ask for help. Turns out they were closed too, but happened to be cleaning the museum that day. So after about 5 phone calls, someone was found who happened to be in the government building who was able to meet me at the back door with the key.

What a relief!

So, we got to the pavilion early so we could clean up and set up....and Grace watched us while eating her healthy lunch of Chicken nuggets.

The party was pretty simple. My sister, Mary, and I made some tissue paper poofs for decorations...and we had chex-mix and pretzels for snacks.

We learned very quickly that even when you attempt to do a very simple party for just family...it turns out to be a lot of work and money when your family is huge!

Bubbles as favors and Grace's photo book of pictures from her 1st year with us!

Cara and I made the cakes. Grace has been called a little 'owl baby' on several occasions due to her big eyes and her non-blinking stares. So, when I saw a owl cake made out of cupcakes, I decided that it was perfect!

Luckily for me, my sister is awesome at making cakes and she was willing to help me!

(L) Additional owl cupcakes...or 'Angry birds' as my nephew pointed out. (R) Owl cake.

Almost all of the family on both sides were there! Unfortunately, GiGi was not feeling well, and the Chorey's had tickets to the Carolina game! (jealous!)

Benjamin (can you tell he's Grace's cousin? haha)

After everyone played and just visited, we decided to open presents. Which, of course, turned into Mom opening Grace's presents. But, despite who opened them, she enjoyed playing with them!

Blowing out the candle as everyone sang Happy Birthday. She was pretty excited, and those little pointy fingers wanted to get at that cake!

I learned something at the party. Going through pictures, I noticed these gems. Not that I didn't know this before, but I've realized that this is my 'go-to' face for the camera. haha

the bottom picture is a present for ME...a temporal thermometer! I LOVE it!

Since Grace and her Uncle Ryan were born on the same day, we wanted to do something special for him too for sharing his birthday. So, we made him his own 'smash' cake. Ryan loves rubber duckies so we made this cute little duck!

Saying the Grace loves TiCara and Nomi is an understatement. She ADORES them. Every time Cara and Nomi leave my house, she will throw a fit trying to claw her way out of my arms to Cara. She has even thrown a tantrum in the middle of sacrament at church one day when Cara passed her back two rows to me, her MOTHER! haha Embarrassing, to say the least. But, I'm glad she has such a wonderful '2-mama' as we call it.

of course, she made her way to Cara or Nomi at any chance during the party

Grace showing off her skills at walking with Grandmother (yes, and her diaper is bulging in those Jeggings...haha)

Lots of playing in the park...even Grandaddy got in on the action!

And then for the main event!!! The cake smash. And so, with that...let the pictures roll.....

Can you tell Grace was excited??

Grace quickly discovered that the icing was too good to let go waste.

Is this really ok?? Ok, then i'll double fist it!

absolute joy

My BIL, Matt got this picture of Grace and I. I'm thankful for it! I never get pictures with my sweet girl!

I love these faces! She's nothing short of expressive!

And then, After we cleaned her up....she signs more and points at the cake again! haha

Today

2011-11-22T06:15:00.001-08:00

Who would have thought...

That this adorable little Red-Head,

And this feisty little brunette...

would someday meet,

date,

get engaged,

get married for time and all eternity,

and have an precious, precocious red-head of their own?

I did.

(well, when I was a kid I did used to say I was going to have a red-headed daughter...so I guess the rest of it makes sense!)

And I will be eternally grateful that I found that wonderful, funny, adorable, responsible, spiritual, silly, enthusiastic, hard-working, handsome man who gave me all the joy in the world.

Happy 3 years, Boo.

I love you. (to infinity and beyond, of course)

Look what I found in the bathroom.

2011-11-19T17:38:00.000-08:00

How nice of Grace to get the toilet paper ready for me the next time I have to use the bathroom.

It's taken a full year...

2011-11-18T12:50:00.000-08:00

BUT WE'VE FINALLY GOTTEN ENOUGH HAIR FOR PIGTAILS!!

They are not that big, of course...but they are there!

She reminds me of a Who from Whoville, but like a million times cuter.

It may take a little longer to convince Daddy how cute these pigtails are, but Mom is already a fan.

Just one for now...

2011-11-12T18:49:00.002-08:00

Today was Grace's Birthday party. It was wonderful!! The weather was PERFECT and Grace didn't whimper the entire party. In fact, I think she knew it a party for her, because she kept smiling and giggling and socializing with everyone. Truly, the life of the party.

And now she is in bed...and that's where I'm headed right now.

Dear Grace,

2011-11-09T20:15:00.002-08:00

Yesterday marked your one year birthday. One year ago yesterday, I got to hold you in my arms for the first time. My world was instantly flipped upside down. You are my sweet little girl, my baby, my little Gracie-loo-hoo. I still remember unwrapping you from that 'hospital swaddle' to see all your fingers, toes, belly button...I just was in awe of this precious gift that my Father in Heaven gave me. You had the chubbiest little cheeks (all 8.7 lbs of you) and shockingly BLONDE hair! I cherished you just snuzzling into my chest like it was just made to fit your little squishy body. You had the most wonderful new baby smell, and I couldn't help but rest my chin and nose on your fuzzy head. Your daddy was instantly in love with you. I still remember laying on the hospital bed minutes after having you and seeing your daddy holding you with the look of awe and adoration on his face as he gazed at his beautiful, perfect little girl. By the way....he still looks at you like that. And I don't think that will ever change!

I remember being so excited to bring you in our home. We walked you around showing you your nursery, and taking you on a tour of the whole house, while you just slept contentedly in our arms. Some of those first nights were hard, but I remember being so grateful that despite how tired I was, I was blessed to get to hold you in my arms and rock you back to sleep. I still love when you fall asleep rocking with me as I sing.

And now, one year later, you are still my world. As I sing to you, " I love you, a bushel and a peck, a bushel and a peck though you make my heart a wreck, you make my heart a wreck, And my life is a mess, my life is a mess, yes, a mess of happiness about YOU!"

Grace Nicole...you are ONE! You have been such a blessing in our lives. You are truly a happy child. You just have so much love for everything and everyone. I don't think you've ever met a stranger. In fact...you will smile and reach for any stranger at the grocery store, or wherever we tend to be. And I know that you bring joy to me AND all those new friends you make daily. You are a smart girl, even though sometimes you are too smart for your own good. You can throw tantrums like the best of them...but you also give the best, most slobbery, but sincere kisses. You can sign 'more' which you do a lot, in reference to food. You sure have an appetite! You can say 'hello' (which sounds more like, hell-ah?), Bye, Mama, Dada, Yeah (with a head nod), and you of course babble all the time (I just can't seem to understand all of it!). You also point at anything and everything and then look to me to tell you what it is. You surprised me the other day, when I was singing 'popcorn popping' when you started to do the movements with me! You absolutely LOVE music. If music is playing somewhere, you will stop whatever it is you are doing and dance! Even when my cell phone rings, you will turn to me, smile, and start waving your arms in the air.

You are crawling everywhere, and will take off walking IF holding onto one of our fingers. You have somehow not figured out that you really aren't even using our fingers for support, but you refuse to keep walking if we let go. I have a feeling that will change all to fast, though.

You adore playing with your cousins. You chase them around, and crawl all over them. If they are not paying you enough attention, you will pull yourself up to their face and start giggling and babbling at them until they stop what they are doing.

You keep me on my toes. You are fast, and defiant. If I say no, you will turn around and furrow your brow and just loudly mimic any noise I made to get you to stop. You love to mess with our blinds...and you LOVE to open any cabinet or door that you are not supposed to.

You only have 2 teeth (that came in around 6months) but you've been working on 4 more on the top for a couple of weeks that are close to coming out. You still have those chubby cheeks and I kiss them constantly.

You have the best giggle, and I love that you are so ticklish because I can hear it often! Baths are your favorite thing, and you are a wild child in the tub. No fear. You will put your head in the water, fling yourself around (much to mommy and daddy's dismay) and just laugh throughout it.

You are a Daddy's girl. I think you already know when it is about time for Daddy to come home. You will go to the window, and look out. As soon as the back door opens, you smile and make a beeline for Daddy. Then he throws you up in the air several times, as you squeal in delight. Even after you go to bed, he still has to open the nursery door to check in on you before he turns in for the night.

I'm still a sucker for you mischievous grin...and your sweet little voice saying, 'ma-ma' still makes my heart skip a beat. I love experiencing things with you. Your eyes will light up as you see a new part of your world. And it makes me happy that I get to show you the world.

Overall, I'm just happy that you chose us.

I love you, Grace.

Happy First Birthday!

Love,

Mama

I am a Child of God

2011-11-05T11:12:00.001-07:00

Ever since Grace was born, I've sung this song to her. The words are so comforting...and so true.

And ever since Grace was born...she has loved it.

You wouldn't think that a baby would have a favorite song, and you probably wouldn't believe me unless you could see how quickly she calms down when this song is sung.

If Grace is struggling to fall asleep, or is sick, or hurt, or just plain cranky, I sing these words:

I am a child of God

And He has sent me here

Has given me an earthly home

with parents kind and dear.

Lead me, guide me,

Walk beside me

Help me find the way.

Teach me all that I must do

To live with Him someday.

I am a child of God

and so my needs are great.

Help me to understand His words

Before it grows too late.

Lead me, guide me,

Walk beside me

Help me find the way.

Teach me all that I must do

To live with Him someday.

I am a child of God

Rich blessings are in store

If I but learn to do His will

I'll live with him once more.

Lead me, guide me,

Walk beside me

Help me find the way.

Teach me all that I must do

To live with Him someday.

Immediately, her countenance changes. She will quiet down in a sort of reverence and look at me with those big blue eyes. She will lay her head against my shoulder and just listen to the words as we rock back and forth.

When I sing those words, I feel the Spirit testify to me that the words are true. I am a child of God. And in those piercing blue eyes, Grace testifies to me that she also knows that she is a child of God.

And there is nothing more important than that truth that I want her to know.

Bottomless Pit

2011-11-04T11:02:00.000-07:00

So I've found yet another way that my daughter is like her father: She can eat and eat and eat.

I have a feeling that I might need to start adding more starches in our diet to curb some of the cost of groceries.

Last night, Stephen and I went to the temple while Grace stayed with my sister, Cara. When I walked in the door to pick her up, Cara said, "Your daughter is a bottomless pit!". I had warned her.

While we were at the temple Grace ate:

Spaghetti

Cup of peaches

Green beans

2 Ritz Crackers

3+ biter biscuits

1 banana cookie

2 cups of juice

(and I think I'm forgetting something)

Yes, that is in less than 3 hours.

I tell Stephen all the time, that I feel like all I do all day is feed our daughter.

Well, today was no different.

Grace woke up from her nap at 11:40.

I changed her diaper and got her changed for the day.

I sat her down in her booster seat and proceeded to feed her lunch.

One hour later, I declared lunch over.

She ate:

4 Chicken Nuggets

Mandarin oranges

about 15 Cooked Carrots (slices)

Rice (maybe 1/4 cup)

cup of water

and an animal cracker

Don't believe me?

Look at her tray.

Oh, and to prove that it was not all over the floor...

Man, I hope she also inherited her daddy's metabolism.

Trip to Sumter and Swinging!

2011-11-02T07:36:00.000-07:00

When Stephen had to go out of town again for work, Grace and I headed back to Sumter to visit with the Grands. Gram and I took Grace to Swan Lake to walk around. I used to love going and feeding the swans and ducks but now they won't let you!! LAME! Oh, well...we at least got to show Grace the pretty flowers and swans.

Grace in the butterfly garden.

Some of the beauty of Swan Lake!

Grace was pretty much mesmerized by all the birds. I don't think she knew what to think.

She eventually warmed up to them, and then she had to wave at every bird that happened to waddle by.

We also went to the playgrounds at the park. I had never really put Grace in a swing by herself, and let's just let you decide if she loved it or not...

Yeah, she was super pumped about swinging! Raise the roof, Grace, Raise the roof! haha

Since we had such a great time swinging in Sumter, we decided to take Daddy on a picnic at a park when he flew back into town. Grace was happy to oblige to show daddy how good she was at swinging.

Even Daddy got in on the swinging, as shown by the legs! haha

OK, well obviously I'm late in posting this, because this little girl will be turning a year old in less than a week, and this was at 10 months....

You are never going to believe this, but...

2011-10-31T08:38:00.000-07:00

I ran a 5k!!

I know...if you know me, you know this is pretty much the last thing you would expect me to do.

Even my mom just stared at my blankly when I told her and just kept saying, "You? Really? YOU? Are you sure? You???"

Yes, mom....ME.

I decided pretty much mid September that I wanted to make a goal and just do it. I wanted to do something that wasn't expected and something that would help me be healthier.

And i'm happy to report that I DID IT.

Of course, the 5K I chose was exactly one month away. Maybe not such a big deal for most people, but I literally have never RUN a mile in my life. Even in those high school phys-ed classes, I don't think I ever even ran an entire mile...mostly walked/ran it.

So, I had one month to make my out of shape self run 3.1 miles. And I did NOT want to run/walk it. I wanted to RUN it.

Stephen was the best trainer, and we ran as much as we could during the week. He would push me, even though I prob complained 90% of the time we were running. (thank you, Stephen!)

I was super excited about running, can't you tell? Or maybe just excited to get it over with?

Mary and Jacob (the actual runners in our family) decided to run it too! Thanks for the support, guys!

Right before we head out!

After the run, Stephen and Jacob chilled in the dugout, while Mary and I posed as Gangstas by our two-time National Champs Trophies!

We got medals....or as I like to say, "I WON a medal!" haha

Yep, that's right...we FINISHED!

I had a great time. And I met my goal of RUNNING the whole way! I can't say that I am now in LOVE with running, but I do want to at least still keep running.

And although Mary wants me to run a half marathon with her, I think I'm still perfectly happy to stand on the sidelines to cheer her on as SHE runs it!

Now I just need to find a good jogger stroller at a good price so we can keep up the habit!

Dear Stephen,

2011-10-18T17:10:00.000-07:00

Do you remember this morning, when your alarm went off? I had Grace in my arms, after fighting her to sleep all night. With my spare arm, I smacked you repeatedly whispering to turn the alarm off. You frantically search for the off button, and proceed to stretch out your hand and press my stud earring. Yes, MY EARRING.

Then, once you found the real off button you turned to me and said, "I thought your earring was the off button".
I just responded, "Yes, I noticed."

And I'm still laughing about that tonight.

5 min beach trip.

2011-10-18T10:28:00.000-07:00

I have a confession to make. I'm ashamed to even say it.

Grace is almost a year old and has never been to the beach!

Shocking, I know!

For someone who used to be at the beach every other weekend of my summers and who is married to someone from the beach, you'd think that I'd have made time to introduce my love to my daughter.

Nope...it just didn't happen this summer.

So, last weekend, when we were visiting family, I insisted that we go to the actual BEACH to let Grace experience it.

Maybe not the best of times to experience it, but she was GOING TO EXPERIENCE IT!

We get there pretty much in-between downpours. The wind is CRAZY, and Grace is not really sure what to think of it.

She especially was confused by the sand.

So she did what any curious girl would do.

Yep, this was milliseconds before the hand went to the mouth. This picture was kinda an accident. I was trying to reach for her hand to stop this when this shot happened. And I LOVE it.

Then, Stephen obliged to take a few shots of me and my sweet girl.

I love her to pieces. Even more than the beach.

And I have a sneaking suspicion that someday, she might love the beach as much as I do.

Security....syringe?

2011-10-13T13:13:00.000-07:00

I've heard of a security blanket...but never a security syringe. But that is what Grace has decided to attach herself to. The squishy, removable top of her syringe. About a month ago, I handed it to her after giving her some meds (for an ear infection) and since then she LOVES it. On one particular night, I was rocking her to sleep, and she REFUSED to let it go. In fact, I tried to pry it from her fingers when I thought she was asleep, and elicited blood curdling screams. So, I handed her back her security syringe, and she laid her head back down on my shoulder and went to sleep. I had to go in her nursery a couple hours later after her iron clad grip had weakened to retrieve it.

Strange little girl...I sure love you.

Another baby on my blog??!!

2011-10-12T06:18:00.002-07:00

So I was originally going to name this post, "Another baby?" and then I realized that that would cause a lot of excitement over whether or not I was pregnant, so I changed it. Nope, not pregnant. BUT, I will claim this girl as my own ANY day! In fact, I think she will be living at my house a lot in the future, since her BFF lives with me!

I really haven't been putting any of my 'sessions' up on my blog lately, since it has become my family blog only, but since this sweet cheeked girl IS family, her session gets a post on my blog!

Nomi is my sweet, youngest niece and I love her to pieces. She definitely made me work for some smiles, but it was worth it. She would smile and smile at me when the camera was down, but just like Grace, the camera comes up to my face, and smiles disappear!

So enjoy the mass of pictures...I couldn't just pick a couple!

FAVORITE! I want this on MY wall! Love those cheeks and pouty lip!

on right, She kept doing this 'head-tilt' thing. She gets is honest, judging by pics I've taken of her siblings

bottom right...Isn't that face hilarious? You need to zoom in to fully appreciate it!

What makes this girl so happy?? Her cousin, Grace of course, who was my mini smile helper.

And, of course, we tried to get a couple shots of the siblings while Nomi had her 'wardrobe change'.

Such a ham in front of the camera. The girl knows how to work it.

Oooh, the TEN year old. Did NOT want to have pictures done, but I managed to talk (or bribe) her into it.

The cuteness, the smolder, and the goof. All the same boy.

We were telling jokes. Nora was the most amused...haha

Now back to this cutie! Now rocking her BFF's Tutu!

And with that....we were done! Off to get aforementioned bribes!

oops.

2011-10-04T11:29:00.000-07:00

So, admittably, I'm not the most consistent blogger. I was looking at some of the photos I've taken, and I realized that I really haven't added some of my favorites from the past month..or months.
Well....here is my attempt to remedy that.

Grace and I before a wedding

Nomi

Librarian Grace

I turn around for one moment at Erica's house, and she manages to get Grace's hair in a pigtail. Craziness.

BFF's at the Zoo

What's that mom? Are you STILL taking pictures?

9 months

Grace LOVES pool time!

Happy Birthday to Cara!

2011-10-04T07:09:00.000-07:00

My sister, Cara had a birthday yesterday, and I planned for all the sisters to surprise her with Frozen Yogurt at this cute little yogurt shop, Yumilicious. Unfortunately, Heather was sick, and we missed her on our fun trip!

It was the first time I went to Yumilicious, and OH. MY. GOODNESS! It was sooo good! The whole back wall is lined in all the yogurt flavors, and you can just walk around and serve yourself some samples (which Grace LOVED). The flavors were anything from the classic Vanilla and Chocolate, to Acai Berry, Lychee and Avocado Tart. Grace and I shared half Angel food cake and half Acai Berry. Amazing. Then you could add any toppings that you wanted. (but not TOOO many, because you paid by the ounce!haha)

We just enjoyed each other's company and enjoyed the fabulous Frozen Yogurt. And Livvy enjoyed lovin' on Nomi, and teaching her the fine art of applying lip gloss.

Grace enjoyed it too...by the looks of her messy mouth.

So, I took a picture of Mary, and then said, 'ugh...that was a weird face. Try again'. Um...lets just say the picture on the Right was the RETAKE! haha...nice, Mary...not weird at all.

Thanks for having a birthday, Cara, so we could indulge ourselves on some wonderful treats!

Grace loves RyRy!

2011-10-03T14:16:00.000-07:00

For Conference weekend, we watched it at Ryan's house, since we were a little concerned with the idea of trying to keep a 10 month old quiet and still during two days of conference at the church. We had a great time with Ryan and of course, conference was AMAZING! (even if Grace was a little distracting at times!)

Grace loved RyRy's bean bag chair and just looked so cute perched up there eating her cookie, so I had to take a picture.

on left: Grace has now discovered the joys of cookies. Right: "By the power of GRACE NICOLE!" haha

And on a side note...I'm pretty sure that RyRy is going to be her next name she masters. When we were about to go over to his house, I asked, "You ready to go to Uncle RyRy's house?" And she replied, "Rah Rah Rah". Eh...close, enough! I guess it would be fitting to have his name next, since they share a birthday, and all!

Happy Conference weekend!

2011-10-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

This is one of my favorite times of year: Conference!

It is an opportunity for us to hear from a living prophet and apostles.

If that isn't a good enough incentive to tune in, I'll make it even easier for you:

Click me...go on...you know you want to do it! Your life will be changed!

Well, I know all my church friends out there will be tuning in, and I hope the rest of you in Blog land try to watch as well. I promise you that you will not be disappointed.

Don't we all have these days?

2011-09-30T13:33:00.001-07:00

I was going through my picture folder, and I found this beauty. It took me by surprise and several thoughts ran through my head:

1. A picture of ME. That rarely happens b/c Stephen doesn't take that many pictures.

2. Ugh, I look soo tired as a crying Grace hugs my neck.

3. Why do I still have that huge headband on my head, when I'm dressed in PJs?

4.WHY did Stephen take a picture of me...especially at this moment.

As horrible as I look in this picture, I kind of love it. I'm a mom. I do hard things. I often have a crying baby crawling all over me. I often look rough. I often am tired. I often sacrifice.

But, most importantly, I am ALWAYS loved.

Now, when I have another one of THOSE days, I'm going to look back at this picture and think, "well, I got past that day...and I can overcome this trial too".

I'm thankful for all the moms out there. My mom, who I'm sure had MANY of THOSE days with four girls in her house... My wonderful sisters, who are such amazing moms and have given me such great examples of motherhood...And all of my friends who are moms, and for those who are going to be moms someday!
Motherhood is a tough job, but the rewards that are reaped last for eternities.

Well...she IS a Jennings no matter what.

2011-09-13T18:33:00.000-07:00

When Grace was first born, I was sure that she was all Jennings (looks wise). But then she got a little more chunk to her, and I could see some similarities to the Harris side.

But, it is confusing.

Every time my dad sees her, he says, "Hello little Jennings baby!"

Obviously, Grace in the middle...and chubby baby Naomi on the sides.

Every time my mother-in-law sees her, she says, "Hello, Naomi Junior!"

Cute little Stephen and also cute little Grace on bottom.

Needless to say, we are a little confused.

Even people at church say that every time they see her, they think she looks like the other person. I blame this on having her daddy's pretty red hair, and mouth, and her mother's facial expressions. What can I say? Harris' are a little on the expressive/dramatic side.

BUT...no matter what, she IS a Jennings. She does have the last name, after all.

And, I don't care who she looks like...because she is adorable and I'll claim that girl as mine forever to come!

These eyes...

2011-09-06T16:06:00.000-07:00

are red and puffy right now. It seems like this past month, Grace has been sick so many times! I guess I can't be too upset, seeing that she was so healthy and well the first nine months of her life, even with it being during flu season.

I just can't wait for these sweet, pretty eyes to be back to normal, and for her nose to be back to its normal color. Grace and I both have caught some kind of cold or something that has replaced our noses with faucets, and we have rubbed them raw at this point.

I hope that this is the last time we get sick for a while. I guess this means I need to be better at taking my vitamins, huh mom?

Due to previous post...

2011-08-25T13:05:00.000-07:00

Since Grace is such a...ahem...great self-feeder as of late, she has also become a pro at getting multiple baths a day.

She has been REALLY wiggly, and fussy for a while when we give her baths in her little whale tub. I blame the fact that she is so incredibly mobile.

Well, today I thought...why not just let her take a bath like a 'big girl'?

So, I put the baby whale bath away, filled our big tub, and plopped my chubby little 'baby' in the warm water.

A HORRIBLE thing happened.

My little squishy baby turned into a little toddler splashing, crawling, laughing, and standing up in the tub.

I adore this sweet, wiggly baby. Even if she STILL keeps me up at night.

What?

2011-08-25T12:05:00.000-07:00

Do I have something on my face?

Cousins.

2011-08-16T16:33:00.000-07:00

Cousins are great.

Sometimes they play with you.

And sometimes they fight with you.

And sometimes, just sometimes, they SHARE with you.

During a nice visit this past weekend with the cousins, Grace forced Ben into sharing his Paci with her (sometimes I'm not fast enough)...and therefore Ben lovingly shared some Croup with her (much to his mama's surprise).

So we are quarantined for the moment. Wish me luck...or more so, SANITY.

It's ok, Shawna...you are still invited back! haha

Visit with the MB Grands

2011-08-10T08:17:00.001-07:00

Stephen, Grace and I went to MB for the weekend to visit all the family. Grace did incredibly well. I was so scared that she was going to be super clingy, since separation anxiety has hit us hard lately. BUT, thankfully, I was wrong. We walked in to the house, and Grace immediately went to Uncle Joe and stayed with him for about an hour while we got situated and ate dinner. And on top of that, she was full of smiles and giggles for everyone!

Prayers answered!

Grandaddy took Grace outside on Saturday to experience his 'rolls royce' of a wagon. It has seat belts, doors, and even a place for her sippy cup! haha

On a side note, though, SC is super humid and gross right now. Yeah, I know....it's always humid and gross. BUT, this summer is even worse, if possible.

When I saw that the 'boys' were outside with Grace, I thought it would be fun to join them to take pictures.

Well, the humidity and my camera had a showdown.

Humidity: 1 Camera: 0

For a while, every picture was just a haze like this, no matter how many times I cleaned it.

But, finally, the camera fought back and I got some good shots.

And now...for the mass of pictures!

Grace LOVED it. She did not stop smiling the whole time. And she loved it when they went over bumps.

They also played with bubbles. (It's Grandaddy's thing. I think he converted another grandchild))

Next, they tried her in this little car. No surprise that she loved this too. She would just lounge with one arm on the wheel and one arm propped up on the side. She's a pro already. Should I be worried?

She's ready to go!

My girls's got a LOT of different faces. The one on the Right cracks me up.

Road Rage already??

I think they watched too much wrestling last weekend. (yeah, Ryan got Joe old school wrestling dvds for his birthday. They inflicted it on all of us. And Stephen has been 'clothes-lining' Grace ever since.) Luckily, Grace thinks it's hilarious.

Oh, Uncle RyRy...Bunny ears, and Gang signs...what good things to teach your niece.

Ben woke up from his nap, and I took a picture. Big mistake. The picture on the right shows what happened once I snapped the camera. If only you could also hear Ben in that picture.

Playing with Grandmama...Grace gets jealous of Sarah pretty often.

Maddilicious. What a little poser. If only we had a feather boa, this would make a great 'glamour shot'.

And to end, let's just take a look at this adorable nose crinkle once more.
You're welcome.

Can I have some time, please??

2011-08-09T17:10:00.000-07:00

Last week, I was asked if I was pregnant.

No, scratch that. Someone said, "I heard you were in a 'motherly' way again".

Yes. They seriously said that.

Well, yes, i'm a mother, but NO...not pregnant. My daughter JUST turned 9 months old. Can I have a little more time please, before I pop out another one?

Besides, I think I need a little more time with Grace to explain what 'gentle' means...

She especially likes to claw the eyes out

See? I don't think Grace is really excited about the idea of another baby either.
Don't worry, Grace...we'll give you some time to warm up to the idea.

This morning...

2011-08-04T09:08:00.000-07:00

Grace has:
Pulled down my surround sound speakers. Twice.
Fallen in between the rocking chair and my magazine rack.
Torn apart a magazine.
Pulled at my blinds. Twice.
Attempted to pull all the books off Daddy's bookshelf.
Torn apart my shoe collection. Three times.
Threw her nightlight onto the floor.
Said nightlight also happened to break off the door stop from her door. Good aim, little girl.
Tried to figure out the child lock on my TV cabinet.
Tried to take my food out of my lap.
Pulled sunblock from the pool bag which is kept on my shelf.
Took all the papers out of my Primary bag.
Pulled the 'bumper guard' off my brick fireplace.
Managed to try to crawl into the bathroom about 4 times. Doors in the hallway are all closed now.
Tried to get into my camera bag.

And it's not even noon.

Up early again....

2011-07-30T18:35:00.002-07:00

For a GOOD reason!

My friend who lost her little girl to a car accident orchestrated a 5K in her daughter's memory. I was lucky enough to go and support (And later walk) the worthy cause. All I'll say is that it was amazing. There was such joy in everyone's faces. We were all lucky enough to meet Ella during her time on Earth, and were happy to do something in her memory. And we will continue to do so for years to come!

The START!

The sweet little girl smiling down on us from heaven...and her brother's sweet service for all the runners.

Some of the 'stay-behind' crew, or as we like to call ourselves, the "cheerleaders". We manned the water station while the runners ran.

Pretty much sums up what she thinks of crazy uncle Matt. Unsure at first, but then gives in to his antics.

Some of the wonderful family who amazes me every day!

Their youngest...he is going to be a heartbreaker!

See? We did finish the course!

And if I do say so myself, I think Ella was there with us all along...

It's 7am....

2011-07-27T04:51:00.000-07:00

and Grace is already taking her morning nap.

Can you tell what kind of night we had?

Dear Neighbor,

2011-07-20T10:07:00.002-07:00

My dear neighbor, I just wanted to write to let me know how 'appreciative' I am for you pointing out how uncourteous we are. I mean, being naive like myself, I would have NEVER known that having a car parked in front of my house at times was 'un-neighborly', as you called it.

Silly me...I thought being uncourteous was avoiding eye contact and ignoring waves of your neighbors who have lived close to you for almost two years. Who would have thought that the COURTEOUS thing to do would be to approach a neighbor after 2 years, without introducing yourself, and tell them what they are doing wrong?

I also didn't know that the neighborly thing to do was to stalk the make and model of cars and even the race of the car's owners who were visiting. I apologize for having a friend over ONCE a week to go walking with me in my neighborhood. How rude of me to want to be healthier.

I also apologize for thinking that since we BOUGHT this house, it was ours. I should have known that YOU, being the courteous, helpful neighbor that you are, know what's best for me and my family.

I'm also VERY SORRY that you spoke to my husband, and not me. I would have wanted to express my thanks to you firsthand.
And please understand, that WHEN there is a car that happens to look a LOT like mine parked in front of MY house, it surely was an accident.

Sincerely,
Naomi (yes, that's my name. Sorry, I would have used yours, but you haven't introduced yourself.)

P.S. I should also apologize for doing a free photo shoot for my neighbor who just had a baby. Oh, and also for making her homemade rolls and dinner. That must have been very un-neighborly of me. Don't worry, I'll never make that rude mistake with you.

P.P.S. I can't WAIT to meet you. Maybe this time I can show you just how COURTEOUS I can be.

Have I mentioned I have a CRAWLER on my hands?

2011-07-18T12:41:00.002-07:00

Oh, you say you can't tell??

Whew...I was beginning to think it was obvious.

Who's your Mama?

2011-07-14T09:28:00.000-07:00

Grace is starting to talk.

Last month she said 'Dada', which still cracks me up, since she always growls it, not says it.

She also says "Hiiiiiiii". At least, we are pretty sure that's what she's saying, since she only really says it when she waves.

Then this morning, Grace bit me. Yep, she just leaned over and bit my thigh with her 2 little teeth. So, I put her in 'baby time-out' as Stephen calls it. (I really just sit her in front of me where she's not directly looking at me. She knows she did something bad, and will just whimper for a minute and try to turn around and look at me.) Well, after about 30 seconds of her 'time out', I pick her up and say, "Grace, if you need my attention, just say 'Mama', but BITING is not acceptable!"

She looked up at me with big tears in her eyes and just said, "Mamamama".

Goodness Gracious, little girl!! When did you get so smart??

2011-07-13T20:19:00.001-07:00

See this sweet girl?

See how she's playing so nicely lying on her back??

Well, she's decided that she's too good for that now. She now wants to do THIS...

Yep, it's started. This little chunky monkey may be losing some of that chunk now. Watch out, world...Grace is on the move!

Yet another way she's a Daddy's girl.

2011-07-13T14:49:00.001-07:00

Stephen is s Polo snob. It's true.

'Polo' does not refer to a type of shirt.

It refers to Ralph Lauren Polo.

Period.

Well, obviously Grace got that gene, because she also can rock some Polo!

Thanks, Grandmama, you awesome deal-hunter, you!

I'm a mommy rebel...

2011-07-13T13:30:00.001-07:00

I stayed up till 12:30 last night. Yes, It's true. I'm a mommy rebel.

Stephen was at a scout camp last night, so some of my best friends came to keep me company! We had a fabulous dinner, some amazing conversation, and I HAVE to mention the incredible homemade ICE CREAM!!

I wish I had some pictures of us from last night to show, but we were way too busy having fun to stop and take pictures.

Even Grace got to stay up late! She fought and fought sleep because she didn't want to miss anything! (until she finally gave in around 9:30)

I just feel so blessed to be friends with these girls. I've known them for a LONG time, and I've even LIVED with one of them for years! (how she put up with me and STILL loves me, I'll never understand! haha) Our lives have changed, and are continuously changing, but we've remained friends. We are going to miss Desiree when she moves...but we're excited for her new life (and the possibility of weekend stays at the hotel de Desiree and Ikea visits). We are also so excited for Emily who is going to be a MOMMY!! Grace is pumped to have another playmate!

Thank you ladies for having a much needed girls night with me. It was totally worth the lack of sleep!! (which I plan to make up at nap time today!)

And since I didn't TAKE any pictures last night, I'm going give you a little blast from the past.

At the river house. Did I mention that we are now related?? It's a stretch, but hey, we'll take it!

Me and Desiree at my wedding.

oops...I lied. I did take a picture last night. But this was it!

Me and Em before one of the many dances we went to.

Classic. Love this.

And I can't forget the GAMECOCKS!! Always good times!

I'm the mother and wife of a red-head. Appreciate me.

2011-07-12T13:38:00.001-07:00

I scream. You scream. We all scream for ICE CREAM!!

Marble Slab was having 'Red-Head Appreciation Day' to introduce their new flavor, Red Velvet ice cream. For anyone with red hair....they got a free scoop!

I definately wanted to take advantage of this deal (especially, since MY red head cannot appreciate ice cream yet! haha)

I met up with some lovely ladies...

Ate some delicious Ice Cream...

Played a little...

And, of course, loved up on Grace. Who can resist??

This picture melts my heart...She has her arm around her sister (with the crown) and Grace. She is the sweetest girl, and I LOVE having them close by now!

I think Livvy (aka Sluce) and Grace will always be good friends...even if they are about a year and a half apart. These girls have some sort of bond that I think preceded this earth life.

It was such a fun time! I just hope next time they have a "Brunette-appreciation" or "Green-Eyes appreciation" day. Don't we all need a little more appreciation??

The end of life as we know it.

2011-06-30T09:08:00.000-07:00

The other week, I was talking to a friend with a baby boy just a day younger than Grace. He was crawling around the mother's lounge like a pro as Grace just sat there. I asked the mom how long he had been crawling, and she answered, "about a month now". I just looked at her and honestly said, "I'm sorry".

It was the first thing that came to mind. I hope it didn't come off rude, but I really meant it. I am actually a little happy that Grace isn't crawling yet. It means, I can still plop her down in the middle of the room, and know that she can't open all the cabinets, she can't pull all the books off shelves, she can't go anywhere that she can't roll.

I LOVE that.

I'm not the least bit worried about her development, or her ability. Goodness knows it is hard to pick up those thunder thighs and lug all the weight around! I have been enjoying what is probably the last couple weeks I have a sweet STILL little baby before Hurricane Grace arrives.

Well, yesterday, my sweet STILL little baby and I were sitting on the floor folding laundry. Grace was happily playing with her toys that I had pulled out of her basket. After a while, we put all the toys away to get the floor clear for vaccuuming.

I stacked the laundry and was about to get up to put it away, when I glanced over at Grace.

Obviously, she wasn't done playing with the toys.

Oh, sweet STILL little baby of mine, how I will miss you!

A whole month? Really?

2011-06-17T08:12:00.000-07:00

I didn't realize who long it's been since I posted, but today I ran across something that made me come out of my blog doldrums. A friend of a friend (you follow?) is a super creative blogger and she just posted a give away of her awesome Primary song posters. She just signed a deal with Deseret to sell them! (I can't say that I blame Deseret for jumping on that deal!)

Her designs are awesome, and I know that any and ALL of you would love to have these hanging in your home!(especially in children's rooms.)

Check out her blog and leave a comment (but only if you promise to give it to ME if you win! haha...just kidding....but not. : )

http://jergs.blogspot.com/2011/06/its-been-long-time-comin.html

Perspective

2011-05-20T19:50:00.000-07:00

This has been an emotional week.

Monday evening, tragedy struck a friend of mine. Her husband and four year old daughter were driving back home from dropping the missionaries off at their apartment when they were hit head on by a drunk driver. Ella, the four year old daughter, died on impact. My friend's husband was in critical condition, with shattered bones, surgeries scheduled, and a long recovery time ahead of him.

Tuesday morning, I call my sister (not knowing anything at this point). When she answers the phone, immediately I know something is wrong. As she explains, I cannot help but collapse on the floor and begin to cry. As we talk about what happened to this family, my heart aches for what she is going through. How is she going to deal with this tragedy? How is she going to explain this to her 3 sons? How can they forgive this young woman who chose to drink and drive, and by doing so took away this special spirit from her family?

Then, my thoughts turn to my selfish self. Why did I call my sister that day? I called with full intention to vent to her about what a horrible day I was having with my cranky daughter. I called to beg her to come to my house to give me some sanity for a couple of minutes. I called because I thought I needed a break from my daughter. Little did I know, that one of my friends was having a truly terrible, earth-shattering day. My friend would give anything to have a 'horrible' day back with her daughter. To hold her as she cries for no reason. To feel her pinch and scratch her cheeks when she was overly tired. To rock her for hours as she refuses to go to sleep. How dare I think that my day was bad.

As the next days passed, I was able to learn more of how the family was doing, and what other friends reactions were. This sweet family has more strength than I even thought possible. As my friend walked into her husband's hospital room to tell him that Ella didn't make it, he immediately looked at her and before she could even say anything said, 'it's ok. We're an eternal family'.

And THAT is the beauty of it. Of course we are all still sad for the loss, and the void that this has left in our hearts and lives. BUT, we know that the church is true. We know that we can have forever families. We know that Ella will be reunited with her family someday. We know that she has returned to our Heavenly Father, and that she is happy.

Today, I felt peace. I saw my friend. I saw the strength in her eyes. I saw her testimony of the gospel radiating from her. All is well. They will be fine. They will be happy. And most importantly they will be together again someday.

So tonight, as I fought my own little girl to go to bed, I tried to be patient. I rocked her a little longer. I kissed her forehead a few more times. I stroked her hair till her eyelids got heavy. My life has been put back in perspective; the eternal perspective. Because I am grateful for every moment I get to spend with my girl on this Earth. And I am even more grateful that I will be able to spend the eternities with my forever family.

Too funny NOT to post.

2011-05-11T14:18:00.000-07:00

I blinked, and look what happened...

2011-05-09T13:31:00.001-07:00

How did this sweet, squishy baby...

Turn into THIS rolly-polly, bright eyed girl??

Grace turned 6 months on Mother's Day, and I am amazed by her everyday! She is rolling everywhere. Just today, I was at Cara's house, and I put her down to hold her cousin Nomi. About 30 seconds later, she was across the room, trying to put one of Nora's flip flops in her mouth. Gross.

She rolled for the first time about a month ago (5mo) after ZiZi 'taught' her how. After that, I think she might have rolled over once since the first time. Then, about a week ago, Stephen was at a YM camp out for the night. Grace and I were on the floor just playing. Then, something in this girl just clicked. She didn't just roll over once, she just went CRAZY, and was rolling around the room! I'll have to post a video of it sometime. She would grunt and growl, until she got her chubby body to roll over, and then she would look at me with a HUGE smile.

She's so proud of herself.

I'm nervous. This means crawling is in my near future. Meaning, I have LOTS to do to baby proof my house.

We had Grace's 6 month check up today. She's large. (we all knew that right?) She's 18lbs 5oz. and 26.5 inches long.

She is really getting a little personality now. She's a little bit of a diva, but she's adorable. She is just so smiley and lovable, and she has the cutest laugh you'll ever hear (OK, OK...I'm a little biased).

I can't believe that she's a half a year old! Where did that time go? Can I have some back?

This sweet girl is just growing up in front of my eyes. It's amazing to see the little changes, and the little 'wheels' turning in her head. She is smart...I can see that I'm going to have my hands full in the future.

Dear Grace,

I love you so much. I love that you recognize me and your father. I love that you get excited to see your cousins. Your little feet just kick and you get this huge smile on your face. I love how you reach out your chubby little arms to me, when you see me. I love how your face lights up when you see your daddy when he comes in the door after work. I love that you giggle at just about ANYTHING your daddy does. He is obviously the funniest guy you know. I agree. I love your little chubby cheeks, legs and arms. (did you know that Gram called me 'chubby cheeks' when I was a baby?) I love the little dimples in your hands. I love your smiling eyes. I love how you are so proud of yourself for rolling over. I love that you ALWAYS smile whenever we clap, thinking it is all for you (it usually is...).
Most of all, I love that you are OURS. For eternity, no less. I'm a lucky girl.

Love,
MOM

I've had a CRAPPY day. (no...make that week)

2011-05-05T15:33:00.001-07:00

Squeamish friends, beware.

Don't go further.

Really.

There will be a lot of poop talk.

Even pictures.

Don't say I didn't warn you.

Grace used to be on a schedule.

1. Wake up.
2. Eat
3. poop...
4. Sleep
5. Repeat

Such was her life. Then, around 4 months, she decided to change that schedule to this:

1. Wake up
2. Eat
3. Sleep
4. Repeat....for about a SEVEN days....and then,
5. POOP!

Well, this past week she's changed her schedule once again.

1. Wake up.
2. POOPtastrophe
3. Bath
4. Eat.
5. hopefully sleep
6. Repeat.

EVERY morning this past week, Grace has had a Pooptastrophe. Yes, you heard that right. POOPTASTROPHE. Poop is one thing. But, poop up the onesie, poop puddles, poop on the boppy, poop on the sheets, poop through the swaddle, poop on the carseat...now, THAT's another level of catastrophe.

Well, today was just the icing on the cake (eww...gross analogy when talking about poop).
Last night was a bad one. Like the first night home from the hospital bad. Grace wanted to be awake ALL night. (which, for your information, Grace Nicole, is NOT my idea of fun!)
Then, there was the crying, the fighting her down for her nap, which lasted all of 5 minutes (just long enough for me to crawl into bed and pull the covers up to my chin...and hear the loud wail from the baby monitor)...and the errands where my child caused a scene screeching through Walmart. Oh, and did I mention that I forgot the one really 'time-sensitive' item that I needed? Yeah, I hate it when that happens.

Then we got home. I put Grace in the Exersaucer, sat down, and enjoyed my Chic-fil-A Salad. Grace just played happily and would occasionally strain her head around to smile at me.

Sweet peace.

Then a toot. A juicy toot. You mom's know what i'm talking about. That one adjective is the difference between a new diaper, and a POOPtastrophe.
I jump out of my chair and run to Grace.

TOO LATE.

POOPTASTROPHE!! Poop up the back, and puddled in the exersaucer. Its these situations where you have to plan how to attack. Since Grace is now rolling over like a pro...I knew that I needed to get the bath ready before I even took her out of the exersaucer. I even changed my clothes, knowing that anything was possible, and even likely the way my day had been. I put towels down on the bathroom floor, and then placed her changing pad on top. Then, I go to face my crappy fate. I pull Grace out, and run to the bathroom, hoping that the poop does not drip on my carpet.

I take her out of her clothes as fast as I can...but it's not fast enough. The poop spreads: the towel, her hands, her face, her hair.

Then, comes the bathS. One to rinse the initial poop off of her. Then a Second to actually CLEAN her.

Ugh.

Now I'm soaking her clothes in the guest bathroom sink. I really don't think there's any hope for them. I've also treated the exersaucer and it's waiting to be put in the laundry as well.

What did I do after all of this?

Call Stephen and tell HIM to pick up dinner. There's no way I'm tackling that today.

do I dare even look?

ugh...I shouldn't have looked.

damage control to stop the rivers of poop while I bathed Grace.

The culprit. Good thing she's so cute. I guess I'll forgive her.

And yes, I took pictures. Why? Because, one day, when I'm having a bad day, I want to look back and realize that it was no where near as CRAPPY as today.

Daddy left us........for a week.

2011-04-27T10:52:00.001-07:00

We knew when Stephen started this job a few years ago, that there was a possibility of travel. But, it really hasn't been a problem, since he hasn't had to go anywhere. Well, it all changed last month. It's funny how different the word 'independant' means, once you're married with a kid.

I used to live in Five Points for goodness sake. I was independent...probably too independent and thought I was invincible.

Now, I'm married...and I felt like my right arm was being ripped off when Stephen told me he had to fly to PA.

I used to always make fun of my sister for always making a big deal out of her husband being gone for a day or so. I'm sorry, Mary. It IS a big deal!

After church on Sunday, Grace and I dropped Stephen off at the airport. I don't know if Grace understood or not, but we both cried on the way home. Luckily, my sister Cara let me come over to their house to watch Tangled (adorable) with them.

Grace LOVES her daddy!! (I don't blame her one bit)

Then, on Monday, I drove to Sumter to be with my mom and dad. Yes, I'm a total wuss. I did NOT want to be in my house all by myself for an entire week.

First, we visited Aunt ZiZi. Grace doesn't like her at all. HA! Every time Mary even looks at her, she smiles and laughs.

I wish I had more pictures, but I just enjoyed my time there. Mary did take some pictures of me and Grace (since I have barely ANY) and I'll have to post those when I get caught up on all the photo sessions I'm editing right now.

I'll probably embarrass my husband for saying this, but he also wrote me letters every day he was gone. Isn't that the most romantic thing you've ever heard? It was the sweetest and most thoughtful thing ever, and it just makes me love him even more.

Then Stephen CAME HOME!!! Grace and I were soo excited. We waited and waited....then waited through some delays, but then Stephen came down the escalator!!

Grace reached for him....touched his face (a la 'Hook'...anyone remember that?)...

and then gave him a GIANT hug!

He was just so thrilled that she didn't forget him!

Can you tell she was PUMPED that he was home??

Before Grace VS After Grace

2011-04-04T20:34:00.000-07:00

I knew a lot of things would change once I had a baby, but some of the changes make me laugh daily.

Here are just a few:

BG: Talking about bodily functions was rude. You just didn't do it.
AG: I talk about poop/ deal with poop/ am up to my elbows in poop MANY times a day!

BG: I'd be showered, dressed and have makeup on by 8am.
AG: I'm lucky to have a shower a day. PERIOD.

BG: I LOVED my perfume. 'Body' by Victoria.
AG: I now wear 'Ode de Spitup' 24-7

BG: I was a little of a night owl. I loved to stay up and watch movies, go to dinner, etc.
AG: It's unusual for you to see my eyelids open past 10 or 11.

BG: I took random shopping trips, grocery trips, misc errands whenever I wanted.
AG: I plan every outing with Grace according to the last time she ate.

BG: Stephen and I would eat dinner together.
AG: We eat in shifts...while the 'person on duty' takes care of Grace.

BG: I loved naps.
AG: Well, not much has changed. I still love naps...but now I love Grace's naps. I can accomplish so much during this time!

BG: All these things would seem like a 'con list' for having a baby.
AG: I wouldn't trade my life as a mother for anything in the world. Being a mom is hard work. It really is. But I absolutely love it. There are too many amazing moments to get caught up on the not so great moments.

Nomi Mara

2011-03-24T11:55:00.002-07:00

My sister had her little girl (aka, Grace's built-in best friend) on St Patrick's day. She was a 'featherweight' as far as her babies go, seeing that she was only 8lbs 1oz. She is ridiculously adorable, and has more hair that I have EVER seen on a newborn! She has a full head of black hair, and three adoring older siblings to take care of her.

They named her Nomi Mara. She was named after a very special woman in our family...my grandmother. My grandmother is actually who I was named after (Naomi) and we always called her Nomi. So, here is another namesake for that wonderful woman...Nomi.

Although she won't ever meet her great grandmother Nomi in this life, I know that she will be just as sweet, caring, servicable, beautiful and amazing as her namesake!

Welcome to the family, Nomi. We love you!

Houdini....Who ME??

2011-03-13T10:31:00.002-07:00

As any new mother, I struggled with sleep the first couple of weeks after Grace was born. The day after I had a really bad night of waking up about every hour, and then having to fight a WIDE awake baby back to sleep, I went to Target.

My sister and I wandered through the store and were checking out when I saw someone who looked familiar. Obviously, I was familiar to her too, because she approached and said hello. She had a little baby with her as well, who was about 3 months older than Grace. As most people do, she asked how she was sleeping. I honestly told her that it was probably the worst day to ask me that question, since we had a horrible night previously. She then told me that she had the same problem, until she started swaddling her baby. After she swaddled her little girl, she slept for hours on end. I had tried swaddling Grace the first week, but it just didn't work that well for me, so I had given up.

We finished checking out, and said our goodbyes. I kept thinking about this woman throughout the day. I couldn't remember a name, and wasn't even sure where she was from...but I really felt like I should trust her and take her advice. Later on that day I finally remembered where I knew her. I have seen her on countless occasions at the temple. Immediately, I understood why I not only recognized her, but I TRUSTED her.

That night, I pulled out the swaddle, that I had prematurely thrown into the back of the closet and swaddled my baby girl.

Grace woke up ONCE that night, and has been ever since.

The morning after I tried the swaddle again, I nearly cried in relief. I was at the point of exhaustion the night before, and Heavenly Father knew it. He put this woman, that He knew I'd trust, in my path that day for her to tell me what I needed to hear. I am forever grateful for 'tender mercies'!!

As far as the swaddle, it is my best friend! Grace loves it and immediately calms down when I swaddle her at night.

BUT, she has become very strong at 4 months.

More and more often, I wake up to a different noise on the baby moniter.

No, no crying.....SUCKING!

Grace is a little Houdini, and wiggles her fists or arms out of the swaddle, so she can suck on her hands.

Grace caught being Houdini first off in the morning.

She looks like she has a guilty conscience, huh?

I think its almost time for me to give up the swaddle again, and I'm a little concerned for my sleep patterns!

Dear Grace,

2011-03-09T08:50:00.005-08:00

Yesterday you had your 4 month old shots. It was traumatizing...for you AND me. I wish I could have convinced the nurse to give me the shots instead. Those big crocodile tears welled up in your blue eyes and broke my heart to pieces. I picked you up and your little fists clung to my shirt sleeves and you cried into my neck. Even on the way home, you just wimpered and wailed, telling me all about what that mean nurse did to you and how you never wanted to go back.

I understood.

But, here at home, I nursed your fever with some tylenol and some snuggles. You fell asleep in my lap all curved into my body, and I couldn't bear to put you in your crib for your nap.

You see, Grace, someday you will be older and less snuggly, and I will have to fight you for my hugs and kisses. Things will be different, but I will still crave my little girl cuddles. So yesterday, I let you sleep in my arms for hours...because I could...and because someday you won't let me.

And I hope you remember, now and then, that I will always and forever want your love and snuzzles no matter how old you are, or how uncool I become.

I love you,

Mom

Priorities...

2011-03-09T08:45:00.004-08:00

This morning, Grace woke up on the wrong side of the bed...and so did I.

I gladly put her down for a nap, and then made myself some pancakes.

I thought about what needed to be done today, and then walked past the pile of dirty dishes in the sink, didn't even glance at the half folded laundry on the floor in the living room, passed on the hot shower that waited for me, stepped over the dryer lint and dryer sheet on my bedroom floor left over from laundry day yesterday, and crawled into my king size bed.

Are my priorities in order?

Absolutely.

Love

2011-03-07T10:01:00.001-08:00

When I was pregnant with Grace, I loved the kicks and nudges from her, knowing that they were meant for me. When I saw her for the first time, I loved her more, knowing that she was OURS.

Now, with every smile and giggle I earn from HER, I more clearly understand how much our Heavenly Father loves us, his children. I cannot even begin to explain the love that I have for my daughter. That sweet girl of ours is sealed for eternity to her father and I, and I cannot be more thankful for that ordinance.

I know that our Heavenly Father let us come to earth to be tested, and in doing so, experience all the joys and sorrows of the world. I know that He loves us more than we can comprehend...and I feel the same way not only for Him, but for my eternal family.

I know that, just as I cringe and cry as Grace gets shots or is sick, our Heavenly Father hurts for us when we struggle and fail.

But, he also rejoices and celebrates with us as we suceed, just as I celebrate and clap when Grace smiles or coos at me.

I may not ever fully comprehend the love from our Heavenly Father for us...but the love I have for Grace surely makes it more clear to me on a daily basis how much we are loved, in a very personal and individual way.

Rachel's got moves...

2011-03-03T10:23:00.004-08:00

It took me awhile, but I finally got this video posted from my cousin's wedding. My nieces and nephews were tearin' up that dance floor....especially Rachel.

She has some, uh, unique dance moves that kept us 'rolling' all night!

Someone's discovered her hands...

2011-03-03T09:37:00.003-08:00

And they are obviously the most TASTY thing in the world!

These days, I rarely see this girl without one or BOTH her hands in her mouth. Who needs teething toys when you have your hands, right?

Who knows? Maybe she'll get in the Guiness World Record book for fitting her fist in her mouth at 3 1/2 months!

Spoiled...

2011-02-15T12:37:00.003-08:00

No, not Grace....ME!

Grace is a wonderfully sleepy baby. Not necessarilly during the day, but she sleeps really well at night. We put her to bed around 9, and she usually doesn't wake up until around 5ish to eat. Then, she will sleep until around 8 or sometimes 9.

Spoiled? Yes, I totally am.

And I ADORE her for spoiling me.

Happy Valentine's Day!

2011-02-14T06:04:00.003-08:00

We're low-key at our house for Valentines...we decided to just do our traditional Candy-grams and have breakfast together. Simple, but it works for us...

We always did Candy-grams at our house growing up, and I loved that tradition. So, we are keeping that tradition alive in the Jennings household.

and...well, I LOVE it.

This Valentine's Day...I have a wonderful husband, AND a beautiful little girl to be thankful for!

TWO Valentines? Yep, I'm a lucky girl indeed.

I took too long...

2011-02-09T13:17:00.002-08:00

Today, I put Grace in the Bumbo while I was sitting beside her folding the mountain of laundry I had washed that day. I was talking to her,telling her how proud I was of how strong she was and how good she was being while I finished my chores. She just smiled and babbled back at me until I got everything done. I left the room to put the next load in the wash, and to put the clothes in the closet, promising her that I'd take her out and we'd play when I got back.

Well...I took too long.

So now, I'm finishing laundry and dinner while Grace takes an (obviously) much needed nap.

Blessing day

2011-01-23T10:44:00.006-08:00

About a month after our sweet Grace came into our lives, she was blessed by her daddy. I knew this was going to be a special day, but I don't think anyone could have prepared me for the strong spirit that was felt by all as Grace was blessed. She is a lucky girl, and was completely surrounded by ALL of the priesthood in her family. My father, Stephen's father, and all 6 of her uncles (yes, Uncle Brent included). My mom pointed out how special it is that all of her family were close enough to be there, and were such worthy priesthood holders to assist in this special blessing.

(I think we doubled our ward numbers for the day!)

As Stephen began to bless Grace, my heart was just so full of joy and thanks. He gave her the most amazing blessing. What really stuck out to me was how he blessed her to really KNOW her Savior, Jesus Christ. She was blessed to understand His love for her, and that because of that love, we were given the gift of the Atonement. I also was touched that she was blessed to take notice of the grand examples of women around her: her grandmothers, her aunts, cousins, and me. I know that I've been blessed to have these women in my life, and I'm glad that my daughter is also blessed to have such great examples in her life.

I feel so blessed that all of my family was there to support us on this special day. I know that our Father in Heaven has great plans for this special daughter, and I'm blessed to be a part of her life. I hope that I can live up to the blessing that she has already been in my life, and help her achieve all that she can throughout her life.

All the men in her circle...and incidentally, all the men who will be wielding crowbars in about 16 yrs.

Us and my parents.

Stephen's parents.

Some blessing day pictures.

yep, she's adorable!

And she loves to STRETCH!

Grace says Good Morning!

2011-01-20T18:33:00.003-08:00

Please turn the volume off if you don't want to hear my super silly baby talk. I always thought that I wouldn't be THAT mom, but alas...it totally happened. And you know what?? I don't regret it at all when I get these sweet smiles!

Delivery of Grace Nicole

2010-12-30T14:25:00.015-08:00

I can't believe that I've been a mom for almost 8 weeks now....and I also can't believe that I'm just NOW writing about my delivery. Well, maybe I can believe it, since it's amazing how busy I feel when I only have one kid. I guess when you have a baby attached to you for many hours out of the day, that happens!

**** This blog is really for my Journal...I just didn't want to forget details, so if you don't want to read about blood, and contractions and baby pushing...then you might as well stop here!****

So...as for the delivery. My due date came on Nov 4th....and went by, unfortunately. I was not really surprised, but still disappointed that I hadn't gone into labor yet. I was just READY to be done with being pregnant and READY to have my little girl in my arms!

On Sunday, my sister and I went on a LONG walk in her neighborhood. I was determined to walk/squat/jump this baby out.

I guess something worked, because I woke up at around 5:45 Monday morning having contractions. I knew they felt different than the Braxton Hicks that I'd had, but I didn't want to get excited, so I made myself sleep in between contractions. I didn't wake up Stephen, because I was a little scared to get him all excited if it wasn't the real thing. Well, by the time his alarm went off at 7:15ish, I had been having contractions pretty consistently. Then, for a couple of hours, I just walked...showered...walked again...bounced on Cara's exercise ball (which, conveniently I had borrowed the night before) and paced until I decided that I wanted to head to the hospital.

(on the left, my due date...the right...the day we went to the hospital. can you tell i'm having contractions?

)

I think one of my biggest fears was that I was going to get to the hospital, thinking I was ready to have the baby, and they would send me home with a false alarm. Well, I got to the hospital around 11:30 and they wheeled be up to the triage area. They checked me, and I was only 2 and 1/2 cm dilated.

Talk about disappointing. The nurses told me that they were going to see how I progressed in one hour, so Stephen and I started walking the halls of labor and delivery.

I never understood why people always said contractions were like waves....until I experienced it myself. The contraction would build and build until I was in a lot of pain, and then would crash and subside into a lull. I am so lucky to have Stephen..who held my hand and constantly told me how strong I was and how great I was doing. It really did help me stay calm and get through the pain.

An hour later, we went back up to Triage to get checked. Luckily, by this point I had progressed to a 3 and 1/2, so they brought me to labor and delivery to get started on the IV's and such. They gave me some medicine to ease the pain until I was able to get the Epidural. It really didn't ease the pain, but it almost made me forget the pain in between contractions until the next one came...allowing my body the chance to relax and prepare for the next contraction.

Around 3pm, the Anesthesiologist came in and gave me the Epidural.
oh. my. goodness.
Pain was completely gone, and I'm pretty sure I was asleep within minutes. I slept for HOURS, just waking up occasionally to drink some water, or to let the nurses flip me to the other side so the epidural wouldn't just take to one side.
I'm pretty sure that during this time, Stephen just watched Sports Center and listened to me snore for hours on end.

My parents, Stephen's parents and brother, Ryan got to the hospital around 7ish and came in to see me. By that time, I think I was dilated to about a 7 or 8, so they all ushered everyone out.

I didn't become fully dilated until about 9, and they didn't allow me to start pushing until 9:30. I think the doctor was delivering another child down the hall, and he hadn't gotten to my room yet.

I was pushing, and I guess the exertion of it took a toll on me, and I got nauseous and started throwing up for about 10 minutes. Despite that, however, within 25 minutes of pushing, Grace was coming, whether we were ready of not!
The nurses actually told me to STOP pushing, because the doctor wasn't ready yet, and I think that was were the problems began. The doctor got there, and Grace was here within seconds! She was born at 10:04pm measuring 8lbs 7oz and 21 1/2 inches long. She was perfect. They laid her on my chest, and I just remember thinking about how much love I already had for that plump little girl.

Stephen and Grace

Linder family visits!

When they took her away was when I realized that the doctors and nurses were all milling around my bed. Grace was healthy, and that was really all that mattered in my head...but I had obviously lost a lot of blood in delivery. I had to get about 8 stitches because I had torn in several places. So, I watched them clean up my baby and hand her to Stephen while I was being fretted over and stitched up.

Then, once Stephen and the baby had gone to the nursery, more drama unfolded. Obviously, there are a certain number of gauze's and such on the delivery table, and they could only account for 28 of the 30 pieces of gauze used. yeah. So even MORE nurses came in, and were going through trash bins and those bio hazard tubs to find these missing pieces of gauze.
So, here I am, laid up on the delivery table, unable to even move my legs, much less do anything but watch as they gather all the bloody gauze and collect it on the table right in front of me...wondering if those missing pieces are inside of me. Luckily, they found the gauze that was lost in the wrong bin, and some sort of order was restored. My family wasn't even let in the room to see Grace until around 11:30. When they did come in, however, my sister was extremely nervous and worried about me. From what everyone tells me, I looked green, and Cara (being the nurse) saw my blood pressure numbers and became a little panicked. Once everyone was ushered out, Cara called back to the hospital to try to get information on me, but they couldn't tell her due to privacy. So, she called Stephen , who in turn gave permission for the nurses to talk to Cara.

I had lost a lot of blood, and my blood pressure was extremely low. Once the epidural wore off, they tried to get me to the bathroom in the room, and I remember standing up and looking down just as blood falls and splatters on the floor and on my feet. We kept progressing, though, and made it to the bathroom. When we were trying to get back to the bed, I stopped at the doorway of the bathroom because I started to feel dizzy...and then started to black out. Luckily Stephen grabbed the chair fast enough, and helped the nurses position it under me, so I didn't fall to the ground. Once we got to our post partum room (at 3am, mind you) the same thing happened. As I tried to walk to the bed from the bathroom, my hearing started to fade and I began to black out.

So, from that point on, I wasn't allowed to get out of bed unless someone was with me, and I had to have a Catheter. gross. The next morning, I had to get 2 units of blood transfused back into my body to help me recover. That made the world of difference. Once I had some of the blood back in my body, I felt soo much better!
Cara and the kids had made me a little care package for the hospital and mom brought me a little 'bouquet' of almond joys. I got so many compliments from the nurses about how they had never seen a care package as cute as the one Cara made, and everyone asked about the bouquet. We had about a million visitors, which was fun, but we were so ready to leave and be at our own home. As soon as they gave us the discharge papers to sign, and said we could leave anytime that day...we began to pack our bags to head home.
My sisters Mary and Cara, as well as my mom were there at the house waiting on us. I remember that before I even opened the door, I knew mom had made bread for us, because the scent of fresh bread lingered on the front porch. What a welcome that was...I love it when the house smells like fresh bread. Also, my sisters had prepared a meal for us...my favorite, STEAK!
We were so blessed those first couple of weeks. My mom stayed with us the first week, which was great...She catered to me and helped so much with everything. And so many friends from church offered to bring meals. I don't think we had to cook dinner for about 2 weeks!

On the way home!
Bringing Grace home felt just like that...HOME. I know that she was preserved for my family, and I could not be any more happy to be her mom. I used to always think that there was no way I could love anyone more than I love my nieces and nephews..but Grace has brought in a whole new dimension to love. She is our joy and happiness. She has completely stolen my heart and I don't even want it back. I love this little girl with each and every fiber of my being.

Chorey Family at homecoming!

Bergevin Family

one of my favorites of Grace on the first few days at home.

(I could do a whole post on Nora and Grace...that little girl is in LOVE! I hope she still loves Grace as much once she has her own baby sister in a few months!)

(napping with Grace, Grace playing peek-a-boo, after a bath, and in the swing)

The many faces of Grace-Face.

First outing to zoo

Bedtime, winking, first day back at church, bathtime...she loves baths now, but that first one was traumatic!)

From our house to yours...

2010-12-21T18:09:00.002-08:00

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

I am in the process of adding a LOT of posts to recap my slackness of blogging so bear with me while I try to catch-up this stale blog! (I get a break because i'm a new mom, right? RIGHT?)

2 years and counting...

2010-11-22T13:22:00.006-08:00

I couldn't let the day pass without me at least mentioning my sweet husband today. Today marks our 2 year anniversary. It is still crazy to me that we've been married for two years, and it has seriously flown by. This year, we are lucky enough to not only be celebrating our marriage, but we are celebrating our new addition to our eternal family.

I feel so extremely blessed to have such a good husband who not only caters to me, but now adores our daughter as well.

And he still opens the door for me EVERY time...

I'm a lucky girl.

I love you, boo...here's to another great year!

Welcome to the world, little girl...

2010-11-13T15:36:00.003-08:00

I'm sure most of you know this by now, but Grace Nicole entered the world and our lives on this past Monday.

We are absolutely in love with her.

I'll have to post more later but for now, I have a few distractions like these:

This sweet little smirk to adore,

These pretty red lips to kiss,

These chubby cheeks to eat,

And this sweet body to snuggle...

I'm sure you'll understand that i'm a little preoccupied.

D-Day

2010-11-04T07:05:00.003-07:00

I'm not very surprised that I'm sitting here blogging on my due date, because i've expected this for a while. In fact, i've been trying to convince myself that I'm really not due until next week, so when I got here, I wouldn't be frustrated!

But, alas, here I am...still very pregnant....still sitting at my desk at work...still uncomfortable...and STILL very anxious as to my little girl's arrival!

I have a doctor's appointment tomorrow morning, and they want to schedule to induce me if I haven't delivered yet (which is VERY likely! haha).

Wish me luck on going naturally, so I won't have to be induced!

Baby Showers!

2010-11-02T17:29:00.006-07:00

In case you don't know...I have the most amazing friends and family. My friend, Sherry and sister, Cara, along with lots of other help from family and friends threw me an amazing baby shower. I think I overwhelmed them with a list of people to invite since this was my only shower for the MB people, the Sumter people, the Singles ward friends, and the friends from the ward, etc...

But, they made it happen, and I seriously could not have asked for anything more. I was amazed at how many people came to support Stephen and I and it was just a great time. (oh, and not to mention GREAT food!) Throughout my pregnancy, i've really only had a couple of cravings. Mostly just Tacos or taco salad.
And that's what we had; A delicious bar of things to make a taco salad. Also, a friend of mine made the most gorgeous cake and cupcakes! I could go on and on about how great it was and how loved I felt, but i'll let the pictures do the rest!

Yeah...Grace is spoiled already!

The girls at work also threw me a baby shower. They were so funny, and wanted me to wear pink to match the decorations, and they just loaded me up with gifts!

I'm gonna miss my work girls!

They wanted to compare bellies...although only one of these bellies contains a baby. haha

Halloween 2010

2010-11-02T16:35:00.006-07:00

Well, this year we didn't really do anything costume-wise. I was really hoping (i know, i know...wishful thinking) that I might not make it to Halloween so no thought or planning went into costumes. But the day of...scratch that...the hour before, I cut out a jack-o-lantern face and put it on my belly.

Costume=Check

We had a low key Halloween. We went to a baptism (well, on 10-30), watched the USC game, washed our cars, and then went to the Ward Trunk-or-Treat. It was fun seeing all the kids in costume, even if they were super hyper...BEFORE the candy was handed out!

How adorable are they? She loves her Uncle Stephen. (I knew we had a lot in common! haha)

Something's missing...

2010-10-26T16:21:00.007-07:00

Her bag's ready. (bag made by the fabulous Beth...i LOVE it!)

MY bag's ready...

Her closet is organized and ready...

Bookshelf is ready...

Books ready to be read...

Her chair is ready (and so is Sock Monkey...)

Her mural is ready...

Changing table ready...

Hairbows/headbands/hats ready...

Crib ready...

Nursery ready...

Me??

SOOOO

READY!

But obviously, someone is NOT ready.

I'll let you guess who THAT is.

Walmart Fiasco

2010-10-22T06:23:00.005-07:00

***sorry, i'll warn you ahead of time...this post is long, rambly, and kind of whiny...so you can feel free to skip this***

Yesterday, Stephen and I tried to bring back some of our duplicate gifts to Walmart (since they sell everything...). It was an ordeal. We got there around 6:40, and had 2 big baby bags full of gifts to have them scan. The greeter stopped us and wanted to scan EVERY INDIVIDUAL ITEM before she would let us to to the customer service area. Add to the fact that she didn't know how to work the scanner, and it kept just beeping and every thing she scanned took about a minute (even with me holding out the bar codes for her to scan). Finally, after scanning about 10 items, the little scanner just broke.

I consider this a blessing.

So, we just counted up the rest of the items and she wrote on the last sticker that we had 20 more items.

OK, success, right? Stephen was holding a place in line for me at the customer service line for me, so I was thinking that this would go smoothly. We would make it to our friends' surprise birthday party on time.

WRONG.

We get to the front of the line, and apologize for having so much stuff to scan, but we just needed to know if it came from Walmart or not.

"Do you have a receipt?" the Walmart lady asked.
"No...this was all from a baby shower" I responded.
" Well, without a receipt, we can only refund up to $50 dollars, and then we can't do any more refunds on your ID for a month."

REALLY? Has this always been Walmart's policy? I've always thought that Walmart would take anything and everything back.

Me: "OK, well I want to return $50 dollars worth on my ID and then HE (pointing at Stephen would like to return some stuff"
Walmart Lady: "I can only refund up to $50 dollars on your ID"
Me: "I understand. He can use his own ID to return some of the gifts."
Walmart Lady: "Well, but this stuff came in with you, so I can only use your ID to return things."
Me: "We are MARRIED...we BOTH got the gifts. They are equally his and MINE!"

Walmart Lady starts to refuse again, and then her manager sees this crazy pregnant lady, and comes over and asks what the problem was.

Keep in mind, I really don't think that I was being rude, but I had already spent about 30 minutes with another Walmart lady, who was taking forever to scan items...and stop people at the door to check their carts...and talking to everyone...I was kinda past my limit of patience.

I just explained that we were trying to see if the items came from the store and to return the gifts that we had duplicates for, and she was really sympathetic. She explained that she had a little boy 8 months before and went through the same thing. She told the lady to just override the machine and she helped us scan everything that we had to see if it came from Walmart, and even gave suggestions of where the other gifts might have come from.

Good. Settled, and we were ready to leave to go to our friend's dinner party. Then we hand her the Birthday card we wanted to buy for our friend. (so they could just take it off the gift card they just gave us) Well, the Walmart lady obviously thought that we were returning the card too, so she put the money for the birthday card on our shopping card. We explained, "no, we wanted to BUY the card, not return it".

So, then the Walmart lady got it right. She said, "OK, so we need to take that amount off the card, and then pay for the birthday card with the shopping card."

Yes...sounds right.

Then the manager steps in..."No, you just need to pay for the card with the shopping card and everything will be made right"

I think at that point I had a really confused look on my face, but she was so adamant (and me being the art major/horrible at anything math related) I was not going to try to correct her.

So we start to walk out of Walmart to try to make it to the birthday party on time.

Before we reach the door, Stephen stops, holding the receipt and says, 'I still don't think we paid for that card."

I kinda feel relieved at this point, because I just thought my math skills were horrible and we review the receipt. Sure enough, they just added the money to the card and then took the money back off the card, leaving the first balance of all of our returns.

We REALLY didn't want to go back and make a big deal out of it, since the whole process took us so long in the first place, but we did want to pay for the card. I just told Stephen to go to one of the quick lines and just buy the card with our gift card.

I hope we didn't mess any one's register up by doing that instead of going back to that first Walmart lady, but I don't think I could have handled it.

At least our conscience was made right.

And we were only a couple minutes late for the party...

I think I'm starting to understand my friend, Jean Marie...who adamantly HATES Walmart.

Home Stretch, here we come...

2010-10-17T19:04:00.003-07:00

We are so close, it's unreal. Still feels a little crazy to think that life is about to change in a HUGE way in a matter of weeks, but we are so excited. I had two baby showers in the past week, and goodness, is this girl spoiled! I'll have to post some pictures from my work shower and the one my friends and family threw me, but goodness this weekend, has our nursery bursting at the seams! (in a good way!)

After the shower on Saturday, I asked my sister, Mary to take some pictures of Stephen and I. Even though I feel kinda on the huge side, I wanted to document that I was, in fact, pregnant! Unfortunately, the sun was not on our side, and demanded to be REALLY bright and harsh, with no clouds at all in the sky. (beautiful day, but not so ideal for pictures) BUT, we made do, and worked around to find some better lighting areas. When I get around to editing some more, i'll post them. Right now, however, that is low on the priority list! haha

But, here is one of my favorites from the day. Thanks, Mary for battling the 'pokey stickers' and ants for us!

The view from here...

2010-10-14T20:05:00.000-07:00

Dear Grace,

2010-10-12T06:21:00.005-07:00

When you date, (someday...not soon please) look for a man like your father. You know he's a keeper, when he leaves you flowers and a card because...well, just because he loves you. It may not always be flowers and a card, but it will always be special because it will be one of your favorite things. And I guarantee that it will always make your day (like your sweet father made my day today!).

Find someone like him to love, so your father and I will know that you will always be cared for the way you deserve to be.
love,
Your mom

Playing the Name Game...

2010-10-07T08:47:00.007-07:00

In between General Conference, Stephen and I were invited over to a friends house who lives close by the church. Being one who never turns down a home-cooked meal (especially when it is home-cooked by someone else....) we went over for some fabulous soup and APPLE PIE! Oh, so good.

It ended up being me, Stephen, my BIL, and 3 other guys sitting around a table. Don't ask me HOW the conversation ended up being about what we were going to name our child, but it did. For. an. HOUR.

The whole pregnancy, I've had my BIL offer sweet name suggestions (if you know him, you prob know how 'great' these names were) and I've even had some recommendations from his friends, such as Anna Conda Jennings. Yes, I said Annaconda.

We had about an hour of some great suggestions, and because I love you all soo much, I will now share those GEMS with you!

Once we assured them that we had a first name picked out, and that it was really just the middle name that was up to determination, they went crazy with middle name options.

Let me explain.

My middle name is Grace. For as long as I can remember, I've wanted a little girl name Grace (in my mind, she's always had read hair, but I guess time will tell on that part). When we found out we were having a little girl, the name Grace just sort of stuck. I was pretty adamant at first that I didn't want to name the baby before she was born, but Stephen and I just felt like Grace was her name. (Luckily, Stephen was a big fan of Grace too...)

So for a while now, she's been 'grace' to us.

Middle names are a different story. We'd come up with some, then X some off the list. One day I came up to Stephen and suggested Grace Hannah. He scoffed at it, saying that it was too close to the tween star, 'Hannah Montana'. OK...fine. I wasn't that attached to it anyways.

THEN, almost exactly a week later, he walks into our bedroom saying, "Hey, what do you think about the name Hannah?"

Poor thing...I think I prob gave him one of what he calls, 'Naomi faces' and said, "Are you serious? Do you not remember the conversation we had last week about that name? Does Hannah Montana ring a bell?" HA! I think he remembered at that point, grinned and said, "oh, well, I like it now." oh, well....I guess things change.

Right now we have a few front runners for middle names, but thanks to those great guys we had lunch with, we have more names to...ahem...add to the list.

Here are a few of the suggestions:

Grace Face

Grace Car

Grace Land

Grace Less

Grace Full

Grace Period

Grace Tabernacle Church of God

Grace Works

Grace Balthazar

Grace Ball

and the crowd favorite:

Grace Shus (or Cious)

As you can see, we have many options to choose from. Even if one of these *may* not end up being her name, I know that she will still be called them on multiple occasions. (I'm sorry, Grace....your Uncle Ryan is crazy. Let's just say, I've heard some of the names they named their toys growing up.)

So stay tuned for the 'final draft' of the name. I think we've decided that since we've narrowed it down to just a few, we are going to wait until we actually see our beautiful little girl to decide what her middle name is.

For being someone who waited for 36 weeks already, you'd think that we'd be used to it by now. I think now, its become even more excruciating, because we know our lives are about to change soon...and we can't WAIT!!

Ready or not....she's coming soon!

2010-09-25T10:00:00.001-07:00

So its starting to hit us that we are going to be a family of 3 soon. So we are starting to get in the 'what do we need to do before she comes' mode.

Well, me?? I'm doing all that I can for this little girl...I'm lugging her around and feeding her, aren't I?

Even her Aunt ZiZi is doing all she can for her...by painting the mural in the nursery. Stephen and I absolutely L.O.V.E. it!!! Everytime I walk down the hall, I turn on the lights and just admire it. Hopefully I will have the crib in there this week, and then we can start arranging and organizing. Mary is just super awesome...I just told her my idea, gave her a picture of what I wanted....and she just sketched it out and painted it. I had gotten some crib sheets already, and wanted the birds to match, and she just made it happen.

And...we got our car seat and stroller! Stephen put it together, and we are excited that we now have a way to bring our baby girl HOME! haha

We're getting ready for her... and she is getting ready for us. She is getting bigger and bigger everyday (as seen by the first photo! haha) and I know these last few weeks are going to sneak up on us!

Is it really only 5 weeks?

Before Vs. After

2010-09-22T11:56:00.004-07:00

Then:
I could wake up and get ready, and get half way through the day skipping breakfast.

Now:
I am ravenous when I get up, and am lucky if I can get out the door without having to eat something. (oh, and not to mention, I already have a little one kicking me, reminding me to eat...)

Then:
I could stand on my feet for hours with no problem. (I'm a photographer...its what i do.)

Now:
I can stand up on any hard surface for more than 20 minutes...and suffer the consequences of swollen feet, and aching back.

Then:
I could work all day at one job, get home, work some more for the side business, and then still have some energy to get house work done at night.

Now:
I resort to taking naps on my lunch breaks (true story) and I tend to crash after I have my belly full of dinner.

Then:
I could see my legs and feet.

Now:
um...not so much.

Then:
Speaking of feet...I used to LOVE painting my toenails.

Now:
I cannot possibly think of painting my toenails...I can't even reach them, for goodness sake. I want (and need) a pedicure sooo bad!

Then:
I could go a whole night without having to get out of bed to go to the bathroom.

Now:
Well, on a good night, I might just go 3 times...but usually more.

Then:
I could roll over and change positions at night with no problem.

Now:
If I need to roll over at night, I should schedule about 5 minutes for it. It's kind of an ordeal.

Then:
The only movement in my stomach was some rumbling when I was hungry.
Now:
I have the sweetest...most ACTIVE...baby moving around all the time, reminding me that i'm going to be a mother soon.

and I wouldn't change it for the world.

Had to add another I got yesterday...

2010-09-20T06:03:00.002-07:00

(pointing at my protruding belly button)

"Hey....Is that her NOSE??"

(I sure hope not...but maybe she inherited the 'harris' nose. HA!)

Out of the Mouths of Babes...

2010-09-13T07:11:00.003-07:00

Just a few of the things I get asked everyweek from little kids:

Is that baby STILL in your tummy? yep...STILL here...

Do you take your baby everywhere? yep...I kinda don't have a choice...

Is THAT heavy? (pointing at my stomach) YES...just ask my back and legs and bulging varicose veins...

and then one of my Primary kids said, "You know what? She's going to be REALLY cute! You know how I know that? Because she's going to look like ME!"

Belly dancing baby

2010-09-10T18:18:00.002-07:00

Well, for about the past MONTH, i've been trying to get my camera out when I see my belly moving a lot, but my little girl is living true to our name, and being stubborn once again. She would literally be doing flips, and then i'd bend over to get my camera, and NO LIE, she would completely stop moving. I finally suceeded in getting some of her 'belly dancing' on camera, even though its not nearly as much as usual.

Sorry, i'm not a good video editor yet, so really all the movement you'll see is in the first 30 seconds or so, so don't feel like you have to watch my belly just move up and down with my breathing for the entire video! haha

Getting closer and closer to keg...

2010-09-08T18:58:00.006-07:00

...and farther and farther away from 6-pack.

Late, as usual.

2010-08-23T08:42:00.002-07:00

I'm about 3 weeks late in posting these pictures, but its better late than never, right? My friend in UT asked for an update 360 degree view of my belly progress, so this is what I sent to her. So, lucky for you, YOU get the 360 degree view too! haha (lucky is the right word, right?? RIGHT??)

And that is also a sneak peek at baby girl's nursery. My sweet husband has been a painting fool lately and has been trying to get some of the 'projects' off our list before Novemeber. The guest room is painted, and the nusery is painted. Now we just need my sister to come finish up the mural, and get the crib in its place!

Oh, baby girl...

2010-08-05T11:31:00.003-07:00

Little girl, (or squirrel baby, as my sister calls her) is getting really strong lately. The little nudges are becoming more like whacks, and kung fu kicks. I'm 27 weeks today, and I know that she can't weigh more than 2 lbs and some change...but her kicks and wiggles are nonstop lately! Its become crazy too to see my stomach moving with her all the time. I think she likes my right side best, because I seem to always feel like my stomach is lopsided.

Some funny instances lately that I've had with my baby girl:

~When we were in the temple, I had my hands resting on my stomach. Almost immediately, she gave me a hard kick right where my hands were. So, I moved my hands...and once again, immediately, she gave me a jab to exactly where my hands were. This went on for quite a while. She was obviously not a fan of me cramping her living space by resting my hands on her!

~After church on Sunday, I got a snack and laid down on the couch to read. Well, my stomach growled, and obviously scared her, because I felt a huge movement, almost like she was throwing her hands up over her head like a startle reflex.

~ Last night, I said our family prayer. As usual, I began to pray for our girl to be healthy and strong. Well, not as usually, as soon as I said 'strong', she kicked me so hard, my stomach moved. It took me a minute to recover and continue the prayer, because it completely took me off guard and almost made me laugh at the irony. It was like she was offended that I would even THINK that she wasn't strong. She definitely showed me...

I love to see the temple...

2010-08-05T06:34:00.006-07:00

This past weekend, Stephen and I went to the temple to do a session. I haven't done an actual session in a while. We've come to do sealings once in a while, becuase I can usually sneak out of those if um....nature calls. I was really excited to go, and even walking up to the temple, I just felt the Spirit so strongly. I am constantly in awe of the truthfulness of the gospel, and how the Spirit can testify this truth. Even as we approached the temple, and saw the Angel Moroni statue on the top of the spire, I couldn't help but remember the words of one of my favorite Primary songs,

I love to see the temple,
I'm going there someday,
To feel the Holy Spirit,
To listen and to pray.
For the temple is a house of God,
A place of love and beauty.
I'll prepare myself while I am young;
This is my sacred duty.

I love to see the temple.
I'll go inside someday.
I'll covenant with my Father;
I'll promise to obey.
For the temple is a holy place
Where we are sealed together.
As a child of God,
I've learned this truth;
A family is forever.

By the time I was even in the dressing room, my heart was full and my eyes were brimming over with tears. As I was waiting, a mother with a wedding gown in her arms walked in, with her daughter close behind her. As they hung up the white dress in the 'bride' room, I couldn't help but think that someday, I want to be that mom bringing her daughter to the temple to be sealed to a righteous young man for time and all eternity.

As the session continued, I just had this overwhelming feeling of gratitude for my Heavenly Father allowing Stephen and I to be parents to one of His children. It is an intimidating thought to know that it is OUR responsibility to raise a righteous child and teach them all that they must learn to return to our Father in Heaven. But, as fast as that overwhelming feeling crept in, another one took its place; I will NOT be doing this alone. Not only do I have a righteous husband who will help me along the way...but I have a Heavenly Father and a Savior who love me very much and who want to guide me and teach me in any way.

The tears really started to come as I sat in the celestial room and took in the beauty and peace that always comes when in that room. What a sacred calling to be a mother! I know I am just barely embarking on this journey of motherhood, but I feel so blessed to be given this opportunity. I am so grateful to have been surrounded with righteous mothers throughout my life. I had righteous parents who taught me the gospel and helped me gain my own testimony. I had a mother who brought in my wedding dress, as I was preparing to be sealed to my eternal companion. I have sisters who are all righteous mothers and who are a constant example of the mother I want to become.

I am absolutely, and undeniably blessed.