CALIFORNIA CREATIONS

Custom Ordered Headbands for Baby Ellie!

2011-04-20T21:40:00.000-07:00

Custom Ordered Headbands for Baby Ellie!

My Maid of Honor from my Wedding recently added to their family with the birth of their baby girl! For her baby shower, she had requested a few headbands. So here are a few that were made just for her!

40 Weeks

2010-09-14T15:04:00.000-07:00

Week 40 of Pregnancy: Your Baby Prepares for Birth

Now officially full-term, a baby born this week will weigh in the neighborhood of seven and a half pounds and measure anywhere from 19 to 22 inches. But many babies check in smaller or bigger than this and are both perfect and perfectly healthy.

At 40 weeks pregnant, this is the moment your baby (and you) has been waiting for! Now officially full-term, a baby born this week will weigh in the neighborhood of seven and a half pounds and measure anywhere from 19 to 22 inches. But many babies check in smaller or bigger than this and are both perfect and perfectly healthy.

The first thing you're likely to look for when baby makes his or her dramatic (and possibly fashionably late) entrance: proof positive that he is actually a he, or she is actually a she. That major mystery solved once and for all, you'll also notice that baby (besides being cute as can be — and yours!) is wearing a little leftover travel dust, consisting of blood, vernix, lanugo, and amniotic fluid. From your baby's perspective, you'll look a bit blurry (babies at birth can focus only about an inch away), but that's okay. With all the tears of joy you'll probably be shedding, your baby will look a little blurry to you too.

You'll notice your little one is still curled into the fetal position (though his or her arms and legs may flail a bit). That's because after nine months in such cramped quarters, it'll take a while before your baby realizes that he or she has room to spread out. And because it's the only position he or she has really known, it's a comforting one to be in. (That's also why so many newborns like to be swaddled, it reminds them of your uterus.) Be sure to say hello to your new arrival. Your baby is very likely to recognize the sound of your voice — and that of your partner.

My week

2010-09-09T14:44:00.000-07:00

Things are moving and shaking this week as we are on the Countdown till September 15th. Here's what's been going on this week:

WATER! I have been staying hydrated and feel like I have been carrying around my water-bottle everywhere! Benefit to a large purse!

Craving comfort food! Last night's dinner: Pot roast, Veggies, Stuffing and Cheddar biscuits. That baby is going to come out nice and plump!

Staying busy at work. Trying to get all my 'ducks in a row' for the guys, because I will be gone for a month taking care of baby M.

Lunch with Friends! It was Rachel's Birthday yesterday, so I took her to lunch today! She is leaving tomorrow for Oregon for vacation, so when she comes back, I won't be pregnant any more! Kinda crazy to think about!

Still sporting the no- swell feet! I feel thankful that pregnancy has been so good to me! Praise God!

I am still feeling good, a little tired, but excited for the future!

39 Weeks

2010-09-07T07:33:00.000-07:00

Week 39 of Pregnancy: Fetal Skills Expand

Your baby's weight and height have probably increased only a little from last week, but his or her brain is still developing rapidly, with changes you'll be able to recognize firsthand as your developing baby's skill-packed bag of tricks expands almost daily.

Your baby's weight and height have probably increased only a little from last week (and your overstretched skin at 39 weeks pregnant is probably grateful for that). But his or her brain is still developing rapidly (a pace that continues during the first three years of life), with changes you'll be able to recognize firsthand as your baby's skill-packed bag of tricks expands almost daily.

Heard that babies cry a lot? There's definitely truth to that rumor — as you'll find out soon enough (and usually during the middle of the night). But what you may not have heard is that tiny babies don't produce tiny tears when they cry, since their tear ducts aren't open for business yet. While you'll be consoling your crying baby right from the get-go, it won't be until sometime after the first month that you'll be wiping tears off those chubby cheeks.
Your baby's skin has now finally changed from pink to white (no matter how dark-skinned he or she will be eventually; pigmentation will occur soon following birth). That's because a thicker fat layer has been deposited over the blood vessels (making your baby's cheeks — both kinds — pinchably and kissably round).

We managed to take a few picts Sunday after Church. The weather has been so strange. Tons of rain and humidity. Typical tropical storm type stuff. Since we were outside in the back yard, Tyson wanted to get in on the action this week. He said he is ready to meet the baby too. He likes to lick my tummy when I go outside. I am not sure if he can tell there is another person in there, or if he thinks I am hiding his ball.

Here are my boys, they had to get in on the action too this week! We are all on the count down to BABY M's arrival!

38 Weeks

2010-09-03T06:42:00.000-07:00

How your baby's growing:

Your baby has really plumped up. She weighs about 6.8 pounds and she's over 19 1/2 inches long (like a leek). She has a firm grasp, which you'll soon be able to test when you hold her hand for the first time! Her organs have matured and are ready for life outside the womb.

Wondering what color your baby's eyes will be? You may not be able to tell right away. If she's born with brown eyes, they'll likely stay brown. If she's born with steel gray or dark blue eyes, they may stay gray or blue or turn green, hazel, or brown by the time she's 9 months old. That's because a child's irises (the colored part of the eye) may gain more pigment in the months after she's born, but they usually won't get "lighter" or more blue. (Green, hazel, and brown eyes have more pigment than gray or blue eyes.)

37 Weeks

2010-08-24T07:18:00.000-07:00

Week 37 of Pregnancy: Full-Term Baby

Your baby is gaining weight at about half an ounce per day. Since your little one is considered full-term now, if your baby was to leave the wet nest this week, he or she would likely thrive. That's because Mother Nature and you have done such a fine job.

With just three more weeks to go and at about six and a half pounds (though weight and height vary from fetus to fetus), your baby is doing just fine. You can expect weight gain to be about half an ounce per day. (Boys, though, are likely to be heavier at birth than girls. And here's a bit of boy baby trivia to back that one up: Moms carrying boys tend to eat more than moms carrying girls — a foreshadowing of teenage refrigerator raids to come.) Since your little one is considered full-term at 37 weeks pregnant, if your baby was to leave the wet nest this week, he or she would likely thrive. That's because Mother Nature and you have done such a fine job.

So what's keeping your little one busy while waiting it out until D-day? Practice, practice, practice. Your baby is simulating breathing by inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid, sucking on his or her thumb, blinking, and pivoting from side to side (one day you feel the tushy on the left side, another day it has swung around to the right side). All these are skills needed for his or her next gig — starring as newborn.

Here's an interesting fact: Your baby's head (which, by the way, is still growing) will, at birth, be the same size circumference as his or her hips, abdomen, and shoulders. And guess what's making an impression (literally) these days on those shoulders and hips: fat — causing little dimples in those cute elbows and knees, shoulders and hip, and creases and folds in the neck and wrists.

36 Weeks

2010-08-17T16:22:00.000-07:00

Week 36 of Pregnancy: Fetal Skull and Bones

Your little one is now about six pounds in weight and measures slightly more than 20 inches in length. Growth will slow down now in preparation for birth, so your baby will be able to fit the narrow passageway to the outside and so he or she can store up the energy needed for delivery.

Your baby's skull isn't the only soft structure in his or her little body. Most of your baby's bones and cartilage are quite soft as well (they'll harden over the first few years of life) — allowing for an easier journey as your baby squeezes through the birth canal at delivery (and less prodding and poking for Mom along the way). At 36 weeks pregnant, the skull bones are also not fused together yet so that the head can easily (well, relatively easily) maneuver through the birth canal.
So your little bruiser (who you've now learned won't be bruising you all that much with those soft bones) is now about six pounds in weight and measures slightly more than 20 inches in length. Growth will experience a slowdown now, both so your baby will be able to fit the narrow passageway to the outside and also so he or she can store up all the energy needed for delivery.

By now, many of your baby's systems are pretty mature, at least in baby terms — and just about ready for life on the outside. Blood circulation, for instance, has been perfected and your baby's immune system has matured enough to protect him or her from infections outside the womb. Other systems, however, still need a few finishing touches. Once such notable example: digestion — which actually won't be fully mature until sometime after birth. Why's that? Inside his or her little gestational cocoon, your baby has relied on the umbilical cord for nutrition, meaning that the digestive system — though developed — hasn't been operational. So your baby will take the first year or two to bring that system up to speed.

2010-08-10T08:07:00.000-07:00

Week 35 of Pregnancy: Fetal Weight Gain

With five more weeks to grow, your baby is accumulating fat at a rapid pace, but he or she has pretty much reached the in utero limit in height by now. Which means your developing baby's once skinny arms and legs are now quite plump…and irresistibly, squeezably soft.

At about 20 inches and five and a half pounds (but with about five more weeks to grow), most of your baby's growth over the next month or so before you meet will be in weight (with a gain of anywhere from one pound to several), not height (baby's pretty much reached the in utero limit in that department). Accordingly, fat continues to accumulate at a rapid pace these days (on baby, not just on your hips). Back in the middle of your pregnancy, your baby's weight was made up of only two percent fat; now at 35 weeks pregnant, that percentage has soared to closer to 15 percent (and will increase to 30 percent at term). Which means your baby's once skinny arms and legs are now quite plump…and irresistibly, squeezably soft.

Also continuing to grow at an amazing pace is your baby's brain power. Luckily, the part that surrounds that amazing brain — the skull — remains soft. And for good reason: A soft skull will allow your baby to squeeze more easily through the birth canal. (Mother Nature was really thinking this one through — imagine trying to push out a rock-hard head…ouch!)

34 weeks

2010-08-10T08:04:00.000-07:00

Week 34 of Pregnancy: Gender Differences

Your baby could be as tall as 20 inches right now and could weigh about five pounds. Need a visual? Hold a five-pound bag of flour in your arms and imagine it's your soon- to-be-born baby (cradle it, and you'll only get strange looks in the baking aisle).

Your baby could be as tall as 20 inches right now and about five pounds. Need a visual? Hold a five-pound bag of flour in your arms and imagine it's your soon-to-be-born baby (cradle it, and you'll only get strange looks in the baking aisle). Then stack three such bags one on top of the other (and get ready for some more strange looks, maybe from the same clerks who saw you grinning and holding that one-pound box of sugar a few weeks ago). That's how tall your baby is at 34 weeks pregnant. (Now go bake some oatmeal raisin cookies with all that flour!)

If your little doughboy is, well, a boy, then you'll be pleased to know that this week his testicles are making their way down from his abdomen to his scrotum. (Some baby boys — three to four percent — are born with undescended testicles, but they usually make the trip down sometime before the first birthday.)

Your baby's fingernails now reach the end of the fingertips and may even curl over the tip, making a manicure one of the first things you'll need to do for your little bundle.

33 Weeks

2010-07-28T08:45:00.000-07:00

Week 33 of Pregnancy: Fetal Immune System

This week your baby may be anywhere between 17 to 19 inches in length and weigh more than four and a half pounds. Your baby could grow a full inch more this week alone — especially if he or she has been on the shorter side until now.

This week your baby may be anywhere between 17 to 19 inches in length and weigh more than four and a half pounds. At this stage in fetal development, your baby could grow a full inch more this week alone — especially if he or she has been on the shorter side. Weight gain can range from a third more growth to a full doubling before the big debut.

The level of amniotic fluid in your uterus has reached its maximum at 33 weeks pregnant, making it likely that you have more baby than fluid now. That's one reason why you're probably feeling lots of nudges and pushes — there's less liquid to cushion the blows. (Of course that means you're even closer to your baby now!)

If your uterine walls had eyes, here's what you'd see: your fetus acting more and more like a baby, with his or her eyes closing during sleep and opening while awake. And because those uterine walls are becoming thinner, more light penetrates the womb, helping your baby differentiate between day and night (now if only baby can remember that difference on the outside!).
And good news! Your baby has reached an important milestone about now: The development of his or her own immune system that (along with
antibodies from you) will be able to provide protection from mild infections.

This picture was taken at a co-worker's (Lulu's) baby shower, all 3 of us work together and are preggo! We are all a month apart, I am due in Sept, the girl Andie in the middle is due in October, and Lulu is due in November! The other two girls are both having Girls, so will I join in and have a girl? Or will It be a little boy that would be lucky to have his pick of two beauties that are going to grow up with him? we shall see!

32 weeks

2010-07-20T08:24:00.000-07:00

Week 32 of Pregnancy: Fetal Postion

This week your baby weighs almost four pounds and could be up to 19 inches long. And though that's a head-to-toe length, your baby is actually back to a curled-up position in preparation for birth (you try standing up in those cramped quarters!).

This week your baby weighs almost four pounds and could be up to 19 inches long. And though that's a head-to-toe length, your baby is actually back to a curled-up position (you try standing up in those cramped quarters!). At 32 weeks pregnant, you're likely feeling tapping and squirming instead of your baby's signature rocking and rolling. That's because, while comfy, your baby is a bit tight for exercise space right now. Your baby has also probably settled into the head-down, bottoms-up position in your pelvis in prepartion for birth. That's because the fetus's head fits better at the bottom of your inverted, pear-shaped uterus. It also makes it easier during childbirth if your baby comes out head first. Fewer than five percent of babies prefer the bottom-down (or breech) position by full-term. Don't worry if your baby hasn't assumed the head-down position yet. There's still a good chance he or she will flip head-side-down before birth — even in the tight confines of your uterus.

While your baby is still getting nourishment through the umbilical cord, it won't be long before you'll be bringing on the breast milk or formula (and soon after, the mashed carrots and peas). In anticipation of that momentous transition to mouth feeding, your baby's digestive system is all set and ready to go.

And because your baby is accumulating more fat, his or her skin is finally turning opaque (like yours), which means those see-through days are over. Though weeks away from D-day, your baby's looking more and more like a newborn.

And speaking of that big day, hope you're resting up for it — because your bambino certainly is. In preparation for that big first date with you, your baby is sleeping like a baby — with sleep cycles of 20 to 40 minutes long .

Last Friday we did another live art and music night at our local coffee shop, and I had a table out there, It was HOT, but we had a lot of fun!
Lisa ( my mother- in- law) came out to help me out!

Here are my tired eyes! It's getting harder to sleep!

Week 31

2010-07-13T07:14:00.000-07:00

Week 31 of Pregnancy: Activity in the Womb

Your baby's on a roll, measuring an impressive 18 inches and weighing in at more than three pounds. You can still expect your developing baby to gain at least three to five pounds, possibly more, before you two meet.

As far as growth goes, your baby's still on a roll, measuring an impressive 18 inches and weighing in at more than three pounds. At 31 weeks pregnant, you can still expect your baby to gain at least three to five pounds, possibly more, before you two meet.

Your baby's brain is working overtime these days, developing faster than ever. Connections between individual nerve cells are growing at a frenetic clip, and your baby can now perceive information from all five senses. Sure, your baby can't smell anything right now, but that's only because he or she is still submerged in amniotic fluid and needs to be breathing air to get a whiff of anything. Lucky for you — and your baby — yours will be one of the very first scents your baby breathes in, a scent that will quickly become his or her very favorite.
So what's your little dove doing all day while you're busy feathering your nest for his or her arrival? Making faces, hiccupping, swallowing, breathing, pedaling with little hands and feet along your uterine wall, and even sucking his or her thumb. In fact, some babies suck their thumbs so vigorously while in the womb that they're born with a callus on their thumb (what a little sucker!).

Marc's Sister Ashley came down to visit last week! So glad she did!

I had a wonderful Baby Shower with the ladies from our Church! It was a lot of fun!

Staying Busy

2010-07-12T14:06:00.000-07:00

It has been quite a while, since I have shared some of the projects that I have been working on lately. It seems that I get busy and move from one project to another, and I don't take the time to stop and reflect.

This weekend I finished up a custom order for a wedding. Friends of ours are getting Married the first week in Aug, and wanted something "different" than the typical bridal bouquet and corsages made of real flowers, so different is what we did!

I made the entire Bridal package (bouquets, boutonnieres, and corsages) out of beautiful felt flowers that were hand embroidered and embellished with vintage beads and buttons.

I had a lot of fun tackling this project, and can't wait to see them at the wedding! Here are a few pictures that I took of the final products!

Here is the entire set- Brides Bouquet, Flower Girl Bouquet, 4 Bridesmaids Bouquets 7 Boutonnieres and 4 wrist corsages.

2010-07-06T20:40:00.000-07:00

Week 30 of Pregnancy: Fetal Brain Development

Until now, the surface of your baby's brain was smooth. Now that little brain is taking on those characteristic grooves and indentations, which allow for an increased amount of brain tissue as your developing baby prepares for life outside your womb.

Your baby's height and weight haven't changed much in the past week, but the big news is your baby's brain gain. Until now, the surface of your baby's brain was smooth. Now, your fetus's brain is taking on those characteristic grooves and indentations. The reason for this change in appearance? Those wrinkles allow for an increased amount of brain tissue — a necessary change as your developing baby prepares for life outside your womb, and the street smarts he or she will need.

Another big change at 30 weeks pregnant: Your baby's bone marrow has taken over production of red blood cells (before, tissue groups and then the spleen took care of producing the blood cells). This is an important step for your baby, because it means he or she is better able to thrive on his or her own once born (with a little TLC from you, of course).
So it's in with the new (brain cells, red blood cells) and out with the old (lanugo). Much of the lanugo — the soft, downy hair covering your baby's body — is beginning to disappear now because both fat and the brain are regulating your baby's body temperature (so no need for that furry coat anymore). But you may see a few leftover strands of fur on your newborn's back and shoulders.

Here are a few pictures that were taken on Marc's 30th birthday :) I think it is neat, he turned 30 years old the same day our Baby turned 30 weeks old!

So 30 was the magic number for the week! Happy Birthday Baby Daddy! I love you!

29 Weeks

2010-07-02T11:03:00.000-07:00

Week 29 of Pregnancy: Baby Fat

Your baby is almost 17 inches tall now, nearly as tall as he or she will be at birth. But that three-pound weight will likely more than double — and may even come close to tripling — by delivery time.

At 29 weeks pregnant, your baby is almost 17 inches tall now (nearly as tall as he or she will be at birth), and close to three pounds (a weight that will likely more than double — and may even come close to tripling — by delivery time). His or her wrinkled skin is smoothing out as more fat is deposited under the skin surface. This fat, called white fat, is different from the earlier brown fat that your developing fetus accumulated. Brown fat is necessary for body temperature regulation while white fat (the fat you have, Mom) actually serves as an energy source.

Which explains why your energizer baby feels so…well…energized! Space in your baby's living quarters is now at a premium, so you'll be feeling jabs and pokes from elbows and knees mostly. But those kicks will be more vigorous than before (and also less erratic) because your baby is stronger and excitedly responding to all sorts of stimuli — movement, sounds, light, and that candy bar you ate half an hour ago.

Luckily, your baby doesn't have teeth yet that would need a brushing after that sugary treat, but it won't be long before you'll need to buy that first baby toothbrush! You'll recall that your baby's baby-teeth buds formed weeks ago, but now the buds for permanent teeth are forming in his or her gums as well.

And back to those kicks, who's counting? Actually, you should be. Now's a good time to start doing a kick count twice a day to make sure baby's doing just fine (plus, it's a good excuse for a rest). Lie down (preferably after a snack) and keep track of your baby's movements. You're looking for at least ten movements in an hour's time (don't forget to count movements of any kind — kicks, flutters, swishes, rolls, and so on).

Week 28!

2010-06-22T11:27:00.000-07:00

Week 28 of Pregnancy: Fetal Brain Activity

Your developing baby, who this week weighs in at about two and a half pounds and stands — or rather lies — at almost 16 inches (measured head to toe) has added blinking, coughing, and more intense sucking to his or her growing bag of tricks.

Are you dreaming about your baby? At 28 weeks pregnant, your baby may be dreaming about you, too. Brain wave activity measured in a developing fetus shows different sleep cycles, including the rapid eye movement phase, the stage when dreaming occurs. By now, your baby, who weighs in at about two and a half pounds and stands — or rather lies — at almost 16 inches (measured head to toe) has added blinking to his or her growing bag of tricks. (Outside in the real world, blinking is necessary to help keep foreign objects out of the eyes.) Other impressive new talents being added to your baby's roster in the womb include coughing, more intense sucking, and, perhaps most important, better breathing.

The good news is that babies born this week, though premature, have an excellent prognosis because their lungs have reached the point (for the most part) of maturity — so you too can breathe a little easier now. Of course, it's still best if a baby doesn't check out of that uterine hotel just yet — there's still a lot of growing and maturing to do over the next 12 weeks.

27 Weeks

2010-06-15T16:54:00.000-07:00

Week 27 of Pregnancy:

Baby's Sense of Taste and Sound

Beginning at this stage of fetal development, your baby's length will be measured from top of head to toe — which makes your baby nearly a full 15 inches now. And at just over two pounds, he or she has doubled in weight from four weeks ago.

Most babies this age, yours included, still like to snuggle in a slightly curled position inside the uterus (thus the term "fetal position"). Even so, beginning at this stage, your baby's length will be measured from top of head to toe — which makes your baby nearly a full 15 inches now. And at just over two pounds, he or she has doubled in weight from four weeks ago.

Your baby's auditory development (hearing) is progressing as the network of nerves to the ears matures. And even though the sounds your baby hears are muffled (thanks to the creamy coating of vernix covering those ears), he or she may recognize both yours and your partner's voices. So this might be a good time to read and even sing to your baby (or rather, your belly) — and a good chance to start boning up on those nursery rhymes and lullabies you'll need to be repeating (and repeating) pretty soon. And while you're at it, here's another way to have some family fun at 27 weeks pregnant: If your partner presses his ear to your belly, he might be able to hear the baby's heartbeat.

Your baby's taste buds are very developed now too (with more taste buds than he or she will ever have outside the womb, actually). Need a taste test? If you eat some spicy food (you hot mama, you), your baby will be able to taste the difference in the amniotic fluid (but keep in mind that you'll have different mealtimes, with your baby's coming about two hours after yours). Some babies will even respond to that spicy kick by hiccupping. And although hiccups (which feel like belly spasms to you) may seem like they're disturbing to your baby, he or she isn't stressed at all. It's just one more sensation that babies need to get used to.

The Picture Below was taken on June 8th

And this picture was taken one week later on June 15th, you can see the rate at which I am growing now! Here comes baby!

And check out my crooked pregnancy line! haha!

26 weeks

2010-06-08T07:13:00.000-07:00

Week 26 of Pregnancy: Baby's Eyes Open

Your baby's eyes — which have been closed for the past few months — are now beginning to open. Your baby's brain-wave activity is also kicking in at this stage in fetal development, which means your little one can not only hear noises but can now also respond to them.

Look who's looking. Your baby's eyes — which have been closed for the past few months (so that the retina, the part of the eye that allows images to come into focus, could develop) — are beginning to open at 26 weeks pregnant. What this means is that your baby is able to see what's going on now (unfortunately the view in your uterus isn't all that exciting). But do try this at home for kicks (baby's that is): Shine a flashlight at your stomach. Your baby might kick in response (as in: "Get that light out of my eyes!").

The iris, the colored part of the eye, still doesn't have much pigmentation (that'll fill in over the next month or two), so it's too early to start guessing your baby's eye color. Even the color your baby will be born with might not be the permanent shade; so you may be kept guessing until your baby is close to six months old.

Look what else is going on this week: Your baby's brain-wave activity is kicking in at this stage in fetal development, which means your little one can not only hear noises but can now also respond to them. Not in so many words, of course, but with an increase in pulse rate or activity. And talking about activity, at your baby's current height and weight (about nine inches tall and two pounds), and at the rate he or she is growing, your baby will soon be feeling a little cramped in your uterus. Not to worry, there's still plenty of room for your baby to grow. It just means your gymnast will have less room for those somersaults, cartwheels, and other Olympic feats.

Caleb snapped these pictures on Friday night at our "Live music and art night at Jitterz! I had my booth out there, and was on my feet the entire night! I laugh when I look at these pictures, because look at my little money apron, it it sitting so low! haha!

It was a wonderful night and a lot of fun, Marc and Jenny did wonderful with the live music,and I think this will be an event that we do again next month for sure! IF we can stand the South Texas HEAT!

Week 25

2010-06-02T11:29:00.000-07:00

Week 25 of Pregnancy: Baby's Lung Development

Your baby is about nine inches long and more than a pound and a half in weight this week. And don't look now (as if you could), but your baby's skin is turning pinker as small blood vessels form under the skin and fill with blood. Lungs and nostrils are also growing at this stage of fetal development.

At nine inches and more than a pound and a half in weight, your baby is taller than two juice boxes stacked one on top of the other, and almost as heavy as four of those little boxes (an analogy you'll find particularly apropos in a few years, when those juice boxes start taking over your refrigerator, your pantry, your car.…).

Don't look now (as if you could), but your baby's skin is turning pinker. No, not because he or she's getting overheated (in fact, the amniotic fluid is perfectly climate controlled, keeping your baby at an always comfortable temperature), but because small blood vessels, called capillaries, are forming under the skin and filling with blood. Later this week, blood vessels will also develop in your baby's lungs, bringing them one step closer to full maturity — and one step closer to taking that first breath of fresh air. But at 25 weeks pregnant, those lungs are still very much works in progress. Though they are already beginning to develop surfactant, a substance that will help the lungs expand after the baby is born, the lungs are still too undeveloped to sufficiently send oxygen to the bloodstream and release carbon dioxide when he or she exhales.

The lungs aren't the only system that's gearing up for air intake. Your baby's nostrils, which have been plugged up until now, are starting to open this week. This actually allows your little one to begin taking practice breaths. (Of course since there's no air in there, your baby is really only "breathing" amniotic fluid, but it's the practice that counts, right?)

24 weeks

2010-05-27T07:12:00.000-07:00

How your baby's growing:

Your baby's growing steadily, having gained about 4 ounces since last week. That puts him at just over a pound. Since he's almost a foot long (picture an ear of corn), he cuts a pretty lean figure at this point, but his body is filling out proportionally and he'll soon start to plump up. His brain is also growing quickly now, and his taste buds are continuing to develop. His lungs are developing "branches" of the respiratory "tree" as well as cells that produce surfactant, a substance that will help his air sacs inflate once he hits the outside world. His skin is still thin and translucent, but that will start to change soon.

Wondering what (and who) your baby will look like? If you had a baby cam at 24 weeks pregnant, you'd almost be able to tell by now. That beautiful face (though still tiny) is almost fully formed. What's still missing from the picture is the fat that will be piled on under baby's skin. Until those fat deposits are made, that very tender skin is still very transparent, which means a close look would let you see clear through to all the organs, bones, and blood vessels. Fortunately, that see-through look won't last much longer. Babies at this stage of fetal development are gaining about six ounces each week — with much of that gain coming from fat, in addition to growing organs, bones, and muscle.

23 Weeks and counting!

2010-05-18T11:34:00.000-07:00

Fetal Development This Week

Week 23 of Pregnancy: Fetal Weight Gain

At eight inches and slightly over a pound, your baby is the size and shape of a small doll. You've probably heard your developing baby's heartbeat through a Doppler a number of times, but by now you can also hear it through a standard stethoscope. What a heart throb!

At eight inches and slightly over a pound, your baby is the size and shape of a small doll when you are 23 weeks pregnant. (But then, you already knew that you were carrying a living doll, didn't you?) This week marks the beginning of some serious weight gain. Your baby's weight in the next four weeks alone should double (and you may feel as though yours is too).

You have probably heard your developing baby's heartbeat through a Doppler a number of times already (though you never get tired of hearing it), but by now you can also hear it through a standard stethoscope. What a heart throb!

Your baby's skin is reddish in color now because of the developing blood vessels underneath (remember, the skin is very thin still). It also hangs loosely from his or her little body at this point. That's because the skin grows faster than the fat develops during fetal growth. But don't worry. By the time your baby is born, he or she will be pleasantly plump and filled out — from chubby cheeks to chubby toes.

22 Weeks

2010-05-11T07:47:00.000-07:00

Week 22 of Pregnancy: Baby's Hair Growth

Your baby has finally broken the one-pound mark. The eyelashes and eyebrows are well formed now — and even more hair is sprouting atop that cute little head. But hair at this stage of fetal development has no pigment, so it's bright white.

Guess what? At 22 weeks pregnant, your baby has finally broken the one-pound mark. How heavy is that? Hold a one-pound box of sugar in your hand the next time you're in the grocery story (and expect people to ask you why you're grinning from ear to ear). Is the box eight inches long? That's about the length your baby is too!

This week, your sweetie is making more sense of the world as he or she develops the sense of touch. In fact, your little one's grip is quite developed by now — and since there's nothing else to grab in utero, he or she may sometimes hold on tight to that umbilical cord (don't worry — it's tough enough to handle it). The sense of sight is also getting more developed. Your fetus can now perceive light and dark much better than before (even with those fused eyelids). But remember — unless you're shining a flashlight over your belly (which you can do, by the way), it'll be mostly dark for your baby inside that cozy womb of yours.
Moving up from the eyes, the eyelashes and eyebrows are well formed now — and even more hair is sprouting atop that cute little head. You'd be quite surprised, though, if you could see your little one up close and in color. Hair at this stage of fetal development has no pigment, so it's bright white.

21 Weeks

2010-05-04T09:51:00.000-07:00

Week 21 of Pregnancy: Baby's Taste Buds Develop

At about seven inches in length and almost 11 ounces in weight, your baby is about the size of a large banana. There's still a great deal of room in your womb — though your tenant will soon begin to feel cramped, so be prepared!

At about seven inches in length and almost 11 ounces in weight, your baby is about the size of a large banana.

By 21 weeks pregnant, your baby swallows at least several ounces of amniotic fluid each day — not only for hydration and nutrition, but also to practice swallowing and digesting — skills your baby will need as soon as he or she arrives in your arms. And keep this in mind: The taste of the amniotic fluid differs from day to day depending on what you've eaten (spicy enchilada one day, sweet carrots another). And that smorgasbord of tastes won't be lost on your baby. That's because your little one has very developed taste buds already. In fact, researchers have noted that babies who were exposed to certain tastes in utero via the amniotic fluid were more eager to eat foods with that same taste after birth. Want your baby to eat his or her broccoli later? Eat yours now!

Your developing baby still has a great deal of room in your womb — though like anyone who lives in one space for a long time, this tenant will soon begin to feel cramped. Until those uterine walls start closing in, however, there's plenty of space for twisting, turning, and even an occasional somersault (so that's what you were feeling last night!).

With all that belly dancing going on, it's hard to believe your baby gets any sleep at all. But believe it or not, your fetus sleeps as much as a newborn, perhaps 12 to 14 hours per day!

A busy week

2010-05-02T09:03:00.000-07:00

This week was full of excitement! We not only celebrated our 20 week mark (Yeah!) once, but we seemed to have celebrated all week long.
Tuesday night we went with some friends out bowling, I was an excellent cheerleader. I didn't mind not playing, because if you know me you know I am not the best bowler. Haha! Marc did well, so he represented to Montes clan well!

Thursday we went in for our monthly check up at the midwife center. I have gained a total of 8 lbs. so far, and the baby is already at my belly button. We were able to hear the hear beat, and counted at 140 beats per min. which is perfectly healthy! They scheduled a sonogram for Tuesday, so we will finally get to see our little baby, and make sure he or she is normal!

Afterwards Marc and I decided to celebrate with dinner at PF Changs. We ordered, Crab wontons, changs spicy chicken, brown rice and hot and sour soup! I think my baby will like spicy foods for sure!

Friday night we went grocery shopping after work, but the best part was that Marc made dinner that evening. He grilled hamburgers, and they were wonderful!

Saturday morning we work up early and planted new plants under our 3 oak trees in the front yard, it was worth it! I can't wait to watch them grow.

We ended our Saturday afternoon with a trip to the beach! It was perfect weather! Not to hot, and even had a light breeze! As I was laying down in the lawn chair, I looked down and saw a movement come from my tummy! That's right, I saw the little baby move from the outside. It was small like it was a muscle spasm, but it was so obvious, Marc got to see it twice!

Half way there...

2010-04-27T06:05:00.000-07:00

Week 20 of Pregnancy: Boy or Girl?

You've got a heavyweight in your belly now (well, in baby terms, anyway). Your little champ weighs about ten ounces and has a height, crown to rump, of about six and a half inches. Think of your developing baby as the size of a small cantaloupe (and probably as sweet too). Boy or Girl? You'll also be able to see your baby's gender in the ultrasound by now!

You've got a heavyweight in your belly at 20 weeks pregnant (well, in baby terms, anyway). Your little champ weighs about ten ounces and has a height, crown to rump, of about six and a half inches. Think small cantaloupe (and probably as sweet too).
Is it a boy cantaloupe or a girl cantaloupe? You'll be able to find out your baby's gender via the ultrasound by this point. If you're carrying a girl fetus, her uterus is fully formed this week and her vaginal canal is starting its development (which means that in about twenty-five or thirty-some-odd years, she could be just where you're at, Grandma!). She also has primitive eggs in her tiny little ovaries now, seven million of them — though by the time she's born, that number will be down to two million (still more than she could ever hope to use). And interestingly, your baby girl will be born with all the eggs she'll ever have.

Have you got male? If your fetus is a boy, his testicles have begun their descent this week, though they're still located in the abdomen, waiting for the scrotum to finish growing so they'll have a place to drop into in a few weeks.
Though the external genitals in both male and female fetuses still have a way to grow, you should be able to find out the sex of your baby (if you want to) during an ultrasound exam.

Sorry Folks, we are going to wait until Baby is born to find out the gender! Haha! The suspense! I think that is what makes it exciting! More motivation during labor!

Everything is going well, baby is kicking up a storm, super active, Marc and Jenny both have been able to feel little baby Montes kicking around. My mom said that all of us Silva kids started moving around at 15 weeks also, so it looks like baby could take after momma, and her scrappy side of the family. Get em tiger!

Week 19

2010-04-21T10:31:00.000-07:00

How your baby's growing:

Your baby's sensory development is exploding! Her brain is designating specialized areas for smell, taste, hearing, vision, and touch. Some research suggests that she may be able to hear your voice now, so don't be shy about reading aloud, talking to her, or singing a happy tune if the mood strikes you.

Your baby weighs about 8 1/2 ounces and measures 6 inches, head to bottom — about the size of a large heirloom tomato. Her arms and legs are in the right proportions to each other and the rest of her body now. Her kidneys continue to make urine and the hair on her scalp is sprouting. A waxy protective coating called the vernix caseosa is forming on her skin to prevent it from pickling in the amniotic fluid.

2010-04-14T07:08:00.000-07:00

Fetal Development This Week

Week 18 of Pregnancy: Fetal Nervous System

This week your baby is about five and a half inches long, crown to rump, and weighs about five ounces. And fetal development has reached the stage for you to start feeling those movements some time in the next few weeks — so get ready!

At 18 weeks pregnant, your baby is hitting the height chart at five and a half inches long (remember, that's crown to rump) and weighs about five ounces (the weight of that boneless chicken breast you're making for dinner).

And now for the skill of the week (drum roll please…): The art of the yawn has been mastered by your baby (someone's sleepy!). In fact, you might catch a glimpse of that adorable yawn if you're getting an ultrasound this month. You'll also catch a glimpse of all the fetal movement your baby's doing — twists, rolls, kicks, and punches. And would you believe your baby is finally big enough for you to start feeling those movements now (or anytime in the next few weeks). So get ready!
Something you won't see on the ultrasound, but you'll know is in working order, is your baby's nervous system, which is maturing rapidly at this time. Nerves, now covered with a substance called myelin (which speeds messages from nerve cell to nerve cell), are forming more complex connections. And those in the brain are further specializing into the ones that serve the senses of touch, taste, smell, sight, and hearing. Talking about hearing, your baby's is growing more acute, making your little one more conscious of sounds that come from inside your body (which means you could both be listening to each other hiccup — a skill that your baby has by now).

The Day I Made a Purse..

2010-04-11T10:04:00.000-07:00

So one of my friends asked if I could make her a purse and matching wallet, just because. I said I was up for the challenge. She showed me pictures of what she wanted, then told me to use my creativity for the rest. And that is exactly what happened, because I didn't have a pattern or anything.

It was a lot of work, maybe because it was my first one, and I had no clue what I was doing! But in the end it paid off, and turned out really cute! Here are a few picts of the final product!

Week 17

2010-04-06T07:05:00.000-07:00

Week 17 of Pregnancy: Baby's Body Fat

Your baby is about five inches long and more than three and a half ounces — the size of your open hand. Baby's body fat is beginning to form and will continue to accumulate through the end of your pregnancy.

How big is your baby at 17 weeks pregnant? About five inches long and more than three and a half ounces — the size of your open hand. (Open the other one too and imagine your baby cradled in both your arms right after delivery!) Body fat (baby's, that is) is beginning to form and will continue to accumulate through the end of your pregnancy. By the time your baby is born, body fat will make up about two-thirds of his or her weight (and will make all those chubby parts especially yummy).

Your baby is almost certainly listening up by now. In fact, loud noises — the dog barking, the doorbell ringing — will actually startle your baby (and also get him or her used to such noises; for instance, fetuses who regularly hear a dog barking will become babies who sleep right through Fido's outbursts). Your baby's eyes (which have fortunately finished their migration to the front of his or her head) are making small side-to-side movements and can even perceive some light, though the eyelids are still sealed. And since practice makes perfect, your baby is sharpening his or her sucking and swallowing skills in preparation for that first (and second…and third) suckle at your breast or bottle. In fact, most of the survival reflexes that your baby will have at birth are being perfected in utero right now.

And here's some proof that your baby is truly one of a kind (as if you needed any!). Within the next week or so, the pads on your baby's fingertips and toes will become adorned with completely individual swirls and creases (aka fingerprints).

Killer Leg Crams, and 2 A.M. Eating...

2010-04-01T09:45:00.001-07:00

I have been exercising every night, making sure I walk at least a mile- to ensure I sleep at night. However it hasn't been that simple. This week for example I have not only been waking up at least 3 times a night to go to the bathroom, but last night I had the nastiest leg cramp (charlie horse) in my left leg, and it is still soar today.

The night before that I was awaken at 2 A.M. HUNGRY. The hunger literally woke me up, and wouldn't stop hurting, so I stumbled out of bed, and made my way to the kitchen and started snacking on something I knew would give the most bang for the buck- Banana and peanut butter. Mind you I don't even like peanut butter,but I have been forcing myself to eat it for the protein.

So all this to say, I exercise, and this is what I get? I was supposed to be sleeping through the night, walking=sleep, but it doesn't seem to be that easy any more.

I have a feeling it is all just preparation for the future. Good bye sleep, it was nice knowing you...

16 Weeks!

2010-04-01T09:01:00.000-07:00

Week 16 of Pregnancy: Baby's Hearing Develops

This little one's a looker — with a face that has both eyebrows and eyelashes — but a skinny looker since there's no baby fat yet. Baby's crown-to-rump measurement is between four and five inches, and weight is around three ounces.

Listen up: Tiny bones in your fetus's ears are in place this week, making it likely that the baby can hear your voice when you're speaking (or singing in the shower)at 16 weeks pregnant. In fact, studies have found that babies who are sung to while they're in the womb recognize the same tune when it's sung to them after they are born (so choose your baby Muzak with that in mind…).

And baby's busily boning up in other ways. For one, the backbone (along with the back muscles) is stronger now — strong enough, in fact, to enable your baby to work on straightening his or her head and neck even more. Baby's crown-to-rump measurement is between four and five inches in length, and weight is hovering around three ounces.

Week 15

2010-03-23T07:14:00.000-07:00

Week 15 of Pregnancy: Baby Kicking and Curling

Your baby is as long as four and a half inches right now, and weighs a bit over two ounces. Hold a large navel orange in your hand — that's how big your little darlin' is.

Curious why your body is finally looking like it's pregnant? That's because your baby is growing bigger each week — he or she is as long as four and a half inches right now. Need a better visual (and a snack)? Hold a large navel orange in your hand — that's how big your little darlin' is at 15 weeks pregnant. (Now that you're done looking, peel that orange and eat it for a delicious two servings of vitamin C!).

So what keeps your baby busy all day? Mostly, your fetus is in rehearsals — practice, practice, practicing, and getting ready for that big debut. Babies practice breathing, sucking, and swallowing so that when they leave your comfy womb and move into your comfy house, they'll have the skills necessary to survive.

Fetal body movements continue to get practice this week, too. But because your baby weighs so little (a bit over two ounces), you won't feel the calisthenics going on inside your abdominal gym. But don't let that fool you. Your fetus is holding daily aerobics classes — kicking, curling toes, and moving those little arms and legs.

And with each passing week, your fetus is looking more and more like the baby you're picturing in your dreams. By now, the ears are positioned properly on the sides of the head (they used to be in the neck) and the eyes are moving from the side of the head to the front of the face — where they'll soon meet your loving gaze.

Easy Loaded Mashed Potatoes!

2010-03-22T10:14:00.000-07:00

Last night we had a staff dinner gathering and each couple brought a dish to share. Marc and I were assigned to bring mashed potatoes and gravy, so I went searching for a good recipe. I stopped down the road and picked up a recipe from Adrienne my neighbor who had made some to die for taters! Here is the recipe that she gave me, they were easy and so- so good!

Easy Loaded Mashed Potatoes

Serves 16

Ingredients:

4 Packages Idahoan Homestyle Instant Mashed potatoes

1/2 Tub regular sour cream

Diced Chives

1/2 Package Grated Cheddar Cheese

1 Package Oscar Mayer real bacon bits (yellow package)

1 Can French Fried Onions

Directions:

Prepare mashed potatoes according to the directions on the package.

Add Sour Cream, Chives, Cheese, Bacon bits and stir together.

Place in 13x9 in. baking pan. Sprinkle French Fried onions on top

Bake for 15-20 min. @ 350 deg.

Enjoy!

Food Cravings....

2010-03-21T09:56:00.000-07:00

So many of you have asked 'what are you craving now that you are pregnant?' Here are my top cravings this week....

Watermelon

Egg Drop Soup with LIME!

If you haven't tried it already, I suggest you do! It is wonderful!

Now I am hungry, Guess what we are having for lunch today: you guessed it- Chinese!
Have a wonderful rest of the weekend!

Just Dance

2010-03-21T09:44:00.000-07:00

Last night Marc and I went with a group of friends to the last Winter Texan dance of the season. It was a lot of fun, especially going in a group. We stayed all night long dancing the two- Step, waltz, and even learned the jitterbug! Marc and I couldn't help but laugh, because there were a number of times where baby got in the way- it was so cute, like the three of us were dancing together. We were thinking about the reality of a baby. When the dances start back up in December, baby Montes will already be 2 months old! We were told that we could bring baby with us next time, because there are about 200 'eager grandparents' that volunteered to hold the little one while we dance! Haha!

Happiness is...

2010-03-18T11:45:00.001-07:00

There is a lot to be thankful for, especially now. I have been feeling really good, not sick at all- so I thought I would stop and think about a few things that make me really happy!

So here it goes 'ahem' (clears throat)

10 things that make me terribly happy:

being pregnant
nesting at home
catching up with family and friends
taking good pictures
california
fun music that makes you move
getting packages in the mail
sleeping in (not for long!)
winning stuff
watching old home video's

What about you? Have you stopped to think about what is making you happy at the moment?

14 Weeks Today!

2010-03-17T07:44:00.000-07:00

How your baby's growing:

This week's big developments: Your baby can now squint, frown, grimace, pee, and possibly suck his thumb! Thanks to brain impulses, his facial muscles are getting a workout as his tiny features form one expression after another. His kidneys are producing urine, which he releases into the amniotic fluid around him — a process he'll keep up until birth. He can grasp, too, and if you're having an ultrasound now, you may even catch him sucking his thumb.

In other news: Your baby's stretching out. From head to bottom, he measures 3 1/2 inches — about the size of a lemon — and he weighs 1 1/2 ounces. His body's growing faster than his head, which now sits upon a more distinct neck. By the end of this week, his arms will have grown to a length that's in proportion to the rest of his body. (His legs still have some lengthening to do.) He's starting to develop an ultra-fine, downy covering of hair, called lanugo, all over his body. Your baby's liver starts making bile this week — a sign that it's doing its job right — and his spleen starts helping in the production of red blood cells. Though you can't feel his tiny punches and kicks yet, your little pugilist's hands and feet (which now measure about 1/2 inch long) are more flexible and active.

Here is finally a belly picture: This is at 12 weeks (we are running a little behind)
Here's to another good week!

2010-03-14T10:08:00.000-07:00

Jennifer over at I'm Just a Girl has tagged me in a little fun photo game.

The rules are:
Open your first photo folder
Scroll to the 10th photo
Post the photo (no cheating) and the story behind it
Tag some peeps

Ok so I followed the rules and this is the random picture that came up:

This picture was taken when we first purchased our home back in Feb 2007. This was the before picture! Before paint, before the REAL TILE was put in, and many other things. Makes me thankful of where we are today, because for anyone who has taken part in a home remodel- you know it is not fun!

Alright for this little fun game I'm tagging:

Buffi over at Seasons of Life I know that she enjoys documenting life with pictures, so she is sure to have some!

Jenny at The Caffeinated Rambler I have know her for a while, and have shared pictures with her in the past!

Becca over at The Beauty of Life She is bound to have a good one to share!

Have a fantastic weekend everyone!!

Art Walk!

2010-03-11T14:34:00.000-08:00

Last Friday I was able to take part in my first ever McAllen Art Walk! It was such a fun time, and a great experience! I sold a ton of things, and now going back to the drawing board to make more pretty things in time for the next one! Here are a few pictures that hubby took that night!

Thirteen Weeks...

2010-03-10T16:28:00.000-08:00

We are 13 weeks already! Here is the official update of what's happening this week!

How your baby's growing:

Fingerprints have formed on your baby's tiny fingertips, her veins and organs are clearly visible through her still-thin skin, and her body is starting to catch up with her head — which makes up just a third of her body size now. If you're having a girl, she now has more than 2 million eggs in her ovaries. Your baby is almost 3 inches long (the size of a medium shrimp) and weighs nearly an ounce.
We love you already Baby Montes. This week is the first week that you could possibly find out what the gender of the baby is, however Marc and I are trying to stick to our guns, we don't want to find out if it is a boy or a girl till it's born! I love the surprise and suspense!

Thankfully I have really been feeling good the past week! I am finally enjoying the pregnancy! Yeah! Keep growing!

Spring is in the Air

2010-03-01T12:12:00.000-08:00

March is here:

Time to ...

Air out the House.

Pay extra attention to the yard.

Have people over.

Go for walks.

Take advantage of the BEAUTIFUL weather before it gets to hot.

Something to look forward to!

2010-02-25T20:22:00.000-08:00

Mark you calendars for next Friday, March 5th, because it is the first friday of the month and the art walk is going on in McAllen. I am particularly exited because I will be one of the vendors. California Creation will make its McAllen Debut- and I will be pulling out all the stops.
This will be a new adventure, actually selling in a live venue- vs. online, but I think I am ready. I currently have over 30 pieces of merch to sell, with plan of making more this weekend! I will even have my new kids line on display! I am looking forward to a new adventure in owning an indie business!

Here are a few of the items that I will be selling that evening- come check it out!

2010-02-22T10:18:00.000-08:00

Hello all, here is a quick update of what is going on this week...

Week 10 of Pregnancy: Baby's Bones Develop

Your baby's growth is fast and furious when you are 10 weeks pregnant. He or she is nearly an inch and a half long and the size of a prune, but not nearly as shriveled (even with all the time it spends in water). In fact, your baby is really taking a human shape now. Bones and cartilage are forming, and small indentations on the legs are developing into knees and ankles. The arms (complete with elbows) can flex already, but don't run to the store for a baseball bat just yet. Though your baby's arms are taking shape and getting stronger, each one is only about the size of this number 1.

The tooth bud fairy is making her appearance this week, heralding the arrival of your baby's little choppers, which are forming under the gums. (Those pearly whites won't break through the gums until your baby is close to six months old). Other systems are go, too. Your baby's stomach is producing digestive juices, the kidneys are producing larger quantities of urine, and, if your baby's a boy, he's already producing testosterone (yikes!).

Love is in the air...

2010-02-12T13:37:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day Weekend Everyone! My hubby had these beautiful flowers delivered to work today! I had to share! Hope your weekend is filled with beautiful things!

Feeling Adventurous

2010-02-09T08:25:00.000-08:00

So yesterday I mentioned that Pancakes sounded good, so I thought about making some today, then late last night we realized that today (Tuesday) was free Grand Slam Day at Denny's.

We set our alarm for 5:45 A.M.- not sure if I was actually going to make it up at that time, but to my surprise, it was not a problem today- I felt rested.

So Marc and I decided to have our little adventure. We decided to venture to Denny's this morning for the free Grand Slam Breakfast- along with the other... 500 people that were there! Haha!

To our surprise we were in and out in 30 min. that's it! They seemed to be well prepared.
The food was hot, and actually tasted good. And we met some new friends, because you see, to help with the crowds, they were sitting multiple groups of people at a table. So Marc and I shared a 4 person table with another hungry couple. You can imagine how that conversation went.... " so you here for the free breakfast?"

On the way out there was a group of Winter Texans that were waiting outside to be seated. I told them "Don't worry it will go really fast once you are in there." and the old man replied "Yeah because they probably take your food away before you are finished." He cracked himself up. He was a quick one.

So here I sit, wide awake. Not bad for being pregnant and getting up at 5:45 A.M.
Happy Tuesday Everyone!

Baby Progression- 8 Weeks

2010-02-08T14:51:00.000-08:00

I just found this information on-line and I thought I would update my family on the progress of the baby so far...

How your baby's growing:

New this week: Webbed fingers and toes are poking out from your baby's hands and feet, his eyelids practically cover his eyes, breathing tubes extend from his throat to the branches of his developing lungs, and his "tail" is just about gone. In his brain, nerve cells are branching out to connect with one another, forming primitive neural pathways. You may be daydreaming about your baby as one sex or the other, but the external genitals still haven't developed enough to reveal whether you're having a boy or a girl. Either way, your baby — about the size of a kidney bean — is constantly moving and shifting, though you still can't feel it.

Something Actually Sounds GOOD!

2010-02-08T14:34:00.000-08:00

Yeah!
Today is a day of celebrations! I am officially 8 weeks Pregnant and finally something sounds good to eat.
You see the first few months have been nothing but nausea, and food aversions. (nothing sounding good to eat) However today I saw this picture and it made me want to try to make some!

Swedish Puff Pancakes

1 TBS. butter
1/2 C Milk
1/2 C Flour
2 Eggs
1/2 tsp. Vanilla
dash of Salt
dash of Cinnamon

1. Melt butter in pan in oven while it is preheating.
2. Whisk all ingredients together in bowl, pour into pan w/ melted butter and move to oven.
3. Bake at 425 degrees for 10 - 12 minutes or until the pancake has risen and is firm.

Serve right away (it will start to puff down, that's ok) with fruit, syrup, powdered sugar... whatever you want!

*we always double it so we each get our own.

This looks yummy, and I can't wait to try them! Thanks Naomi for the yummy picture and recipe!

So maybe I will have some extra energy tomorrow morning to make some of these! I will let you know how it turns out!

TGIF~

2010-02-05T14:31:00.000-08:00

Today- After Work:
-Making bread to sell tomorrow!
-Gathering up the rest of my treasures for the early morning garage sale!
-Make Dinner (Steak (Marc is in charge of this one!), Mac and Cheese, and Corn)
-Definitely a date night- Movie at home perhaps?
-Then to bed early because I have an early morning!

This Weekend:
- Bake pink strawberry cupcakes
- Garage Sale it up!
- Babysit Aisha, and possibly have her model a few headbands for the new Children's line of California Creations! But I have to remember, she's a toddler!
- Make some yummy snacks for Super-bowl. Hate the sport, love the entertainment.
I think I am going to try my hand at this little Recipe! Sounds GOOD- Something my MOM would love!

Jalapeno Popper Dip

Recipe from Our Best Bites

2 8-oz. packages cream cheese (light works great)

1 c. mayonnaise (light also works here, but DON'T use Miracle Whip!)

1 c. Parmesan cheese

1 4-oz. can fire roasted green chilies

1/2-1 4-oz. can diced jalapeno peppers*, drained

1-2 sourdough baguettes, sliced, and/or crackers

*1/2 can is mild with a little bite, a whole can is definitely on the spicy side, but if you've got taste buds of steel, you might prefer a 7-oz. can. 4 ounces definitely pushes the limit for my husband and I and our kids won't touch it.

Preheat oven to 350. In a medium bowl, combine the ingredients and spread into a 9" pie plate or a small baking dish. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until dip is bubbly and golden brown.

Prettiest Holiday

2010-02-04T12:05:00.000-08:00

By far I would say Valentines Day is one of the prettiest holidays ever! It brings out the girly- girl in all of us! I think I want to make some cupcakes tonight- Pink ones!

February Already?

2010-02-03T13:29:00.000-08:00

As I sit here and double check the calendar, I realize it is February already. This month snuck up on me, however this week has gone by so slow. Every day this week I have been waking up in the morning thinking it is Thursday already, then I realize... It's only Monday, or Tuesday or Wednesday. You see I have been feeling a little Pregnant lately, wanting 10+ hours of sleep a night, food aversions, and strait up nauseous. It makes the work week difficult and the weekend, just that much better. Even though the symptoms are a bummer at time, I still am thankful when I feel them, because it is a subtle reminder that I still have a little one growing inside.
So yes it is February and yes, tomorrow will be Thursday...

2010-01-29T14:31:00.000-08:00

First off... Happy Friday Everyone!

I just stumbled on some unique information- according to Pantone, t urquoise is the latest “it” color for fashion & interiors in 2010,

So it seems I am not to far off when it comes to my favorite color- Just maybe a little before my time. In 2006 when I got married, Turquoise was one of the colors used in my wedding.

Still looking forward to having this color some how incorporated into the baby room! What is your favorite color right now?

Baby Room Inspiration

2010-01-26T17:51:00.000-08:00

I have started a 'baby' folder on my computer where I will be collecting all of the lovely and inspirational photos I find! Here are a few pictures I really enjoy! We are thinking about doing a neutral room, because we are going to wait to see if it is a boy or a girl till the day they are born! If you find pictures send them my way!

Birthday Happenings

2010-01-25T14:36:00.000-08:00

Today is my official 25th Birthday! I think this is actually my golden birthday, 25 on the 25th! :) The crazy thing is, i don't even feel like it is my birthday today! I had my first pre-natal visit today. It was a morning filled with getting blood drawn (they had a hard time, and had to stab me 7 times! ouch!), paperwork, and questions. Tons of questions.
After being poked and prodded from 8-noon, I was tired! On our way home, we grabbed some lunch at McAlister's Deli , then headed back to work to finish off the work day.
So the day was definitely a memorable day, having the first appointment on my birthday was special!
Later on this week I will get to have some girl time, and lunch with the ladies!
Happy Monday Everyone!

A few things I love right now

2010-01-22T07:44:00.000-08:00

This weekend feels like a good weekend to make things! There are some great tutorials out there right now. So if you are in need of some creative juice, try one of these easy projects this weekend!

Cute hair bows! Why not make one for Valentines day!

Onsie tutorial from Under the Sycamore.

Doily Pillow Tutorial from Smile and Wave.

Or try your hand at making this cute little handbag from leftover scraps.

These little Pincushions would make a unique gift!

Hope you have a great weekend and enjoy!

Big News

2010-01-21T12:53:00.000-08:00

So we got some exciting news when we were on vacation to California! Marc and I just found out we are PREGNANT! We are so happy, and could not ask for a better way to start off the new year.

We found out by taking a home pregnancy test the day before we were supposed to leave to come back home to Texas. I was shocked to read it was positive, I didn't believe it for a while, then the news sunk in!
I told Marc right away, who was peacefully still sleeping, but this news was worth the awakening.

I wanted to run down stairs, with my Pj's on and messy hair and tell my family right then and there- But I wanted it to be special, so marc and I came up with a plan.

We left a note scribbled on a paper towel and took my dad's truck in search of the perfect way to break the news.

That night (friday night) we were celebrating all the January birthday's in the family, Caleb my brother ( who turns 22 today!), Myself, my Mom and my Grandpa. So I was thinking of a 'gift' my mom could open that would give away the surprise.

I was originally looking for the movie: Father of the Bride 2 but was unable to find it.

So we settled for a baby bib that said "I love Grandma" and decided to wrap it up and put it in the bottom of the gift bag, along with a few other 'real' gifts.

It was hard keeping the secret all day long. I even took a ride with my brother on his Motorcycle! It was so much fun!

Now looking at the picture, I seem excited! And I was- for many reasons!

As family arrived and we were dying to tell, but we waited till gift time. As she opened the last gift, my brother grabbed his video camera to record the special moment. I had mentioned to him earlier that I had gotten her a gag- gift and I thought her reaction would be funny, and that we should film her.

The moment she pulled out the baby Bib she shrieked with excitement.

Then the excitement spread as we confirmed that we were in fact pregnant.

Laughter then turned to tears, as we all celebrated together.

It was a memorable night for everyone! And above all i was thankful for the opportunity to be able to share the exciting news with my family in person, especially since the last time we saw each other was a year and a half ago.

I am excited to see what the next 8 months or less have in store!

My first 'Official' Dr. Appointment will be on Monday January 25th! Which just happens to also be my birthday, so I am looking forward to that!

Hope you have a lovely rest of the week!

Vacation Officially Starts now!

2010-01-08T14:23:00.000-08:00

California here I come! Over the next week I will ...

- Be celebrating a late Christmas with my folks.

- Visiting Grover Hot Springs

- Going to the Galleria Mall in Roseville so I can go to Teavana and B. E. and Forever 21.

- Eating at Sweetie Pies

- Checking out Red Hawk with the fam! haha!

- Stopping by REI so I can finally purchase a Klean Kanteen

- Shop till I drop at trader Joe's- I need to stock up on dried fruit!

- Taking some Family Pictures

- Shopping with my Grandma and Divulge a new plan for the shop!

- Celebrating all our January Birthday's

- Re-doing my mom's bathroom

- Visiting with my long lost friends!

Oh and by the way, we don't have internet access or phone reception in many parts of town, so I will be un-plugged! Have a great week!

New Items coming soon to the shop!

2010-01-07T09:29:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to give you a sneak peak of the items that are coming soon to the shop!

There is a lot going to right now, I am not only sick, but trying to plan for our week long trip to Cali, and we leave on SATURDAY! I am really looking forward to seeing my family and friends again, however I feel horrible. Pray that I start feeling better! Here are a few new things! Enjoy!

Good bye VHS

2010-01-03T18:46:00.000-08:00

Home Video's from childhood are honestly one of my most prized possessions. I love the fact that you can re-watch a segment of your life that you have no memory of- Just magical.

Last week I decided to tackle some of my VHS home video's and convert them into DVD's.
We have a VHS/DVD converter, but by the time I was done with 3 VHS tapes I decided to try them out on my computer, and they DIDN'T WORK! After further discovery I realized that you can only play the DVD's in the actual DVD converter, that's it! So that foiled my plans of surprising my family with DVD copies of the dusty tapes, guess I will just have to make them something instead...

Tutu Tutorial

2010-01-02T13:37:00.000-08:00

So far I have made a total of 3 of these tutu's for 3 very special little girls! Last night as I was making one, I decided to document it with pictures, so I could share it with you!

This makes a great gift and costs under $7.00 for everything! Hope you enjoy! Let me know what you think, and I will continue to do more in the future!

Productivity

2009-12-30T20:11:00.000-08:00

This week has been consistent with filling orders, enjoying friends, and good food! Speaking of food, one of my favorites is Ice Cream! We got an ice cream maker for Christmas, and Marc made his first batch of Strawberry ice cream! I have been enjoying it almost every night... Oh P90X please forgive me!

I also had some time to make a few new headbands last night. Here is a sneak peak- a Shop Update is coming soon, like this weekend soon!

Stay tuned for more, now I must finish my ice Cream! Chao!

Tea Time

2009-12-29T14:38:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas Everyone!

So one of my favorite gifts this year came from our staff gift exchange. I was introduced to the tea world known as teavana. Basically heaven in a cup!

It is so unique, and honestly one of those things that would be hard to buy for yourself, but since it was given to me, I can totally see myself getting into this!

I thought I knew tea before, but this takes it to a whole-nother level! It is a loose leaf brew, and the flavor is WOW! For someone who is not a coffee drinker, it is nice to know there are till options :)

Take some time and check it out! I love it!
Hope your enjoying what is left of the holidays!
-Cierra

Shop

2009-12-22T07:50:00.000-08:00

Well Folks.... It's finally up and running! My store that is...

It has been a long time coming. I started this project in November, and just now have it up and running! Ha! When you work full time, and then come home to be a full time wife, these things just seem to fall down on the priority list! It was a ton of fun! Can't wait to see where it goes! My first sale went to a customer in Australia:).

I am most grateful for all those who helped make this possible! (In no particular order):

Jennifer: My model for the day! Thanks for trusting me, you looked fab!

Marc: Your graphic design skills made my store complete! Your banner makes the store feel like home.

Fred: Couldn't have opened up shop without pictures! Thanks for letting me use your Camera!

So will all that said, enjoy!

Here are my TOP 5 Favorite things in the shop right now:

Sweet Tooth

2009-12-04T15:17:00.000-08:00

Definitely craving sweets today! A friend passed along this easy cookie recipe I thought I would share:

1 Box German Chocolate Cake Mix
1 Egg
1/2 Tub of Cool Whip

Mix all the ingredients together in a large bowl, make into balls and roll in powdered sugar.
Bake at 350 deg. for 12 min and presto!

Thinking about making some this weekend.... You should too!

XOXO Stay Warm!

2009-12-01T14:20:00.000-08:00

It's a wonderful rainy day today! We dusted off our coats and put them on in anticipation of cold weather all day. I think it is a great way to bring the month of December in! I couldn't help myself from getting a little coat envy!

If you so desire, you can find them all here

And how bout' these Umbrellas? Love it!

I think tonight will definitely be dinner at home, and maybe a little crafting too!

Happy December! Stay Warm...

Happy Monday

2009-11-30T16:27:00.001-08:00

Talk about a case of the Monday's today! There was plenty of work waiting for me today after a long weekend vacation! I found this site today at lunch however and it was a lot of fun, so much so I thought I would share! Enjoy and check it out! http://laphotocabine.com/

Out of the norm...

2009-11-29T12:50:00.000-08:00

As Marc and I sat down to make Thanksgiving plans, the thought of camping was one of the ideas that was thrown out. I thought to myself, no stress of cooking the perfect meal, no financial burden of buying the perfect meal, and no worries about trying to please everyone! Now don't get me wrong, I love my family dearly, and we have already had 3 wonderful Thanksgiving dinners together, all homemade... the whole 9 yards. This year we both just had a longing for something out of the norm. The fact that my brother Cody is living with us also pushed us to create a 'memorable' holiday, unlike any other. And I would have to say It was memorable! Here are a few pictures of our holiday excursion!

Our Campsite

There were many campers on Thanksgiving day, who would have thought?

Our Thanksgiving Dinner Cooked over an open fire: Grilled Veggies, Salmon and Stuffing!

Yum Yum!

Hiking through Lost Maples

We also did some hiking up the mountain that we camped up against, there were some beautiful view's from the top!

Exploring in the caves on the side of the mountain.

A Sneak Peak inside Garner State park where we camped, Fall was EVERYWHERE

Nighttime came early, we actually got like 12 hours of sleep each night! Because it was so cold, campfires were a must- even though I hated smelling like smoke afterwards!

Tyson Loved Cody!

All in all it was a wonderful trip! I loved it, and hope to go back in the summertime when the weather is warmer, so we can go swimming and float down the Frio River!

Friday Surprise

2009-10-26T13:53:00.000-07:00

Last week we had the opportunity to spend a beautiful day outdoors! The weather was just beautiful, so we didn't want to spend the afternoon inside. I thought it would be nice to take cards and a small plate of muffins to our neighbors, just because- random act of kindness. Our neighborhood is made up of couples who are primarily over 65 years old- no kids, so we are the 'young ones' on the block!

We thought it would be fitting to bring the entire 'family', so we got our exercise clothes on and took took Tyson with us on a spin around the block. The older people were thrilled to finally meet the dog that occasionally barks during the night. hahaha

As I walked down the road with my stack of plates, hubby by my side, and tyson bumping up against the side of my leg, I realized how thankful I was. Not just thankful for the beautiful day, but thankful for the opportunity to brighten someone else's day.

As the neighbors opened the door, they were cautious at first, when when they saw that I was actually there to give them something, not sell them something they were pleased. As they asked "what is this for?" I was able to tell them "just because you are a good neighbor and we are lucky to live on your street." One lady in particular responded "I just don't know what to say..." That to me was exactly why we did it- just because.

Fall is in the House

2009-10-25T09:54:00.000-07:00

Typically people would say "Fall is in the Air" however down here is South Texas. Fall is a state of mind, or for us inside our home. Our weather consists of hot and hotter, so we have to pretend fall is here! Haha! Here is a sneak peek of our 'fall-ebration" which started last week!

Tortellini Sausage Soup

What's fall without a wonderful new soup recipe!

You can find it here at Our Best Bites

I added these golden feathers to some of our greenery in the dining room

This wreath I made last week at home, while watching a movie! I liked the colors, because they are neutral enough to go for both fall and winter, I will just change out the bow.

This banner was made originally for Baby Mack's baby shower, but I loved the fall colors, and decided to keep it up!

This Week:

1) Definitely carving pumpkins

2) More comfort food: homemade chicken pot pie, and carrot cake

3) Plan our our Thanksgiving camping trip

4) Finish crochet hat

How are you celebrating Fall?

Store Grand Opening

2009-10-22T17:49:00.000-07:00

So this week one of my friends back home in California just got hired on with a brand new FOREVER 21 STORE opening in Roseville. Since it is a brand new store, they are planning a grand opening. Each employee was given the opportunity to submit a "theme" for the store's grand opening, and the best theme, would win a gift certificate! I love free things, especially when it involves clothes! Of course I love this kind of stuff, so I helped her come up with a few theme ideas myself. I am always up for a good challenge, especially when a prize is involved! So here are a few ides that I came up with, all the clothes pictured are already from the store!

Now as you take a look, picture 20+ girls creating creative outfits based on the theme, and the store as well!

Wild West: Everything Southern or Plaid

Fashion Week: Everything "designer worthy"

Where the Wild Things Are (or were!): Everything animal Print and Fur

Silent Film: Everything Black and White

Sweatin' to the Oldies: 80's work-out Theme

Glam Rock: Be your own Rock Star

Gold Digger Theme: Everything Bling

Punky Brewster:Punk Theme
Cute with a twist of Attitude

I already have my favorites, what are yours? Any other suggestions?

Family Photo's

2009-08-31T20:15:00.000-07:00

Last Month Ashley Marc's Sister came down for a visit from her new home in Canada, so we decided to take a few family photos while she was here!

Here are a few of the fun evening!

The Montes Family

Eye Candy!

2009-08-27T11:03:00.000-07:00

Hello Friends! Here is just a little bit of Eye candy for today! It's been a while! I apologize! Time to get back on track... Enjoy!

I love the Rug in this photo!

Some of my favorite colors, all in one picture!

Hmmm... I think I could make these!

Abstract but cute!

So unique!

This picture is so dramatic, I love it!

The simple life.

This is a fun little collection! I really need to get a water bottle like this one!

Seattle!

2009-08-11T15:38:00.000-07:00

So Last week I was able to visit my friend Shayna (who was a bridesmaid in my wedding) in Seattle for a mini vacation! It was a wonderful trip jam-packed with adventures! Here are a few pictures to summarize my excursion!

Because Shayna knows I am quite the theater geek, she surprised me with tickets to a wonderful dinner theater show! Now they don't allow you to take pictures inside of the theater, so well the only picture I got was of the rug outside...lol. It was a great show! If you are ever in Seattle,or San Francisco- it is a must see.

The Fremont Troll Was another stop. This famous troll was seen in the movie 10 Things I hate about you.

Ah yes, the Seattle Market. This is where they fling the fish and sing songs, quite entertaining.

While we were at the market, we had to stop for some Bubble Tea!

One afternoon we went out on the lake to celebrate Sea Fare 09'! We enjoyed the sun, watched the Blue Angles stunt over the water

The sky was clear, with the Space Needle in sight!

One of my favorite homes!

We took a walk around the lake pausing for a quick photo!

I am not a coffee drinker, however I did drink an iced moca in Seattle!

We went rafting one afternoon down the Green River! This is Shayna and her boyfriend Greg kicking back on our tubes!

I thought that this river was so beautiful, until Shayna told me that the 'Green River killer' murdered his victims and tossed the bodies in the river, the same river we were floating down...nice.

This is Bellevue, a small suburb outside of Seattle where Shayna lives. This is also the home of Microsoft. Nerd alert!

It was a wonderful weekend, and time spent with friends is priceless. Thank you Shayna for making this possible!

Nothing like Homemade...

2009-07-18T12:54:00.000-07:00

I am convinced, nothing is better than home made bread. I like the fact that I know what ingredients are in my food, and even better, I get to decide what goes in! It had been a long time since I had enjoyed home made bread. I know my mom had a bread machine growing up, and I think we just took it for granted. Now that I am older, I am able to appreciate the little things in life! Here's to simplicity...

Happy Saturday! Make something today!

The things that spark your memory

2009-07-17T18:09:00.000-07:00

This video is fabulous and reminds me of my childhood visits to the dentist...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=soO0CMnU9Bo

making something other than babies...

2009-07-14T22:16:00.000-07:00

This is what our table looked like last night....

Hot glue gun, velcro, scissors, tulle on one side, and soddering iorns, drills and electric guitar pedals on the other. One thing is sure, Marc and I both love to make stuff!

Thought I would share a few of my late night projects.

I have been in love with large hair ornaments lately, and I haven't quite found one that I absolutely loved, so I made my own. Feathers+flowers+tulle= explosion.

Tonight I also made a necklace... with black tassels at the ends!

And we can't forget a little touch of summer with this daisy chain headband!

Just a sneak peak, better photos tomorrow, when the sun comes up...

Now time for some beauty sleep...

xoxo

These are a few of my favorite things...

2009-07-14T12:49:00.000-07:00

So what are some of your favorite things about your home? What to you makes it YOURS? I think that it is important to have something that you LOVE in the space that you call home. Look for the ways that you can express yourself within your home. Maybe it is just a centerpiece on the table, or maybe something more permeant, like a wall color, or mural.

When we first bought our house I had a fear of doing anything to it that would cause it 'not to sell.' So I didn't really do much to it for a while, and the entire time, I couldn't say I loved our home. I didn't think it had enough personality for my taste. Finally after about the first year, I thought to myself, If I make changes to the decor of the house, I will be happier living here because it will feel like it is mine. SO I started to do things here and there. Now, I feel like I am able to enjoy our cozy den, and it now has enough personality to make me come home and enjoy it! Here are a few of my favorite things....

Our fridge, Yes I said our fridge. I didn't like that it was plain white, and a focal point, because our kitchen is open to the dining room. So I changed it! I painted the fridge with black paint, and yes when I am done with it, it will wash off! So it is not permanent. I dare you to try it! If you don't like it, you can always wash it off. Also you can try vinyl wall decals too!

A little bit of this, and a little bit of that makes this wall clutter interesting to follow. I added the wall decal at the bottom of the collage. I love a lot of 'things' in one space, kind of pack rat style I guess, but my husband is a minimalist, so I have to compromise a lot. I think I like this wall, because it is anything but minimal.

I love my new curtains in the living room, it made a huge difference. I didn't care for the colors that I had before, they were basic and safe- so I decided to bring in a little bit of my favorite color into the dining room, where we spend most of our time with family and friends.

And last but not least, my tree mural on the wall. I was scared to paint on the wall, especially in the dining room, however with the light color, I can always paint over it if I get tired of it!

So your turn, what do you love about your space?

The 4th and 5th...

2009-07-07T19:00:00.000-07:00

This year was the first year in a long time that we celebrated not only 4th of July but Marc's Birthday! For years in the past we spent the holidays typically engaged in our Summer Outreaches to Mexico, leaving no time to party. This Summer however, we celebrated both, which made for a fun weekend!

Call me a nerd, but I had always wanted to bring red, white and blue Jello to a BBQ, this year my dream came true! I wasn't sure how to layer the two different colors of Jello, but I figured it out, (you have to let one color set completely before you pour on the next layer on top) The Final product above was berry blue jello with Blueberries, Strawberry Jello with Strawberries and a homemade white whip cream ( mixed heavy whipping cream and sugar) toped with fresh strawberries and blueberries as well!

Jennifer and Zarina kept the entertainment coming at the table!

And this year Marc took advantage of his FIREWORKS! ( love this picture because he looks like a little kid- devious face!)

Caleb tried out his Pyro hand. Success.

Late into the night, and we were still having fun!

The next evening (July 5th) was another BBQ, Just for Marc!

I made him strawberry and cream cupcakes! Spice up any strawberry box cake mix, by adding sliced strawberries to the batter. Because Marc is not a fan of real sweet stuff, I used the homemade whip topping instead of frosting! They were good!

Huge thank you to everyone who showed up that night, it was a lot of fun!

Happy Summer!

Summer Time= Roadtrips

2009-07-07T18:37:00.001-07:00

So our first 'real' adventure for the summer lead us on a roadtrip to Oklahoma City to visit some friends of ours. Here is the Ugly Truth: Marc and I both hate to drive. Let me say, the last time I tried to drive cross country with my mom, I only made it 200 miles before I got sleepy. Not a good track record in the road trip department.

To make matters worse... I started off the trip with a HeadCold... Yuck. But Marc, good thing he was determined, he Had his I-Phone locked and loaded and ready to navigate!

The drive up was 12 hours long, and I am proud to admit I was awake the entire time-With a little help from Chic-Filet and their Large Sweet Tea! It was hot the entire drive 104...107....109... Good thing our air conditioner worked like a charm! Along the way we were able to capture some beautiful moments.

And in the end, we were able to spend some quality time with our dear friends! It was well worth the drive. Would we do it again? Yes, I think we would. Maybe next time we will drive to California.... hmmmm. How many sweet tea's would it take me to get there....?

Happy Birthday My Love

2009-07-05T09:00:00.000-07:00

This post is dedicated to my Birthday Boy!

You are older and wiser than I, and I am thankful every day for you. You are a wonderful example of what a husband and a friend should be. With every year I hope to become more like you, as we grow old together. You make me a better person. Thank you for that. Since this is turning into a brag post, let me add on...
Last Friday Marc VOLUNTEERED to make dinner for me. We had just gotten back from vacation that week visiting our friends Dustin and Leslie in Oklahoma City. We attended their wedding in February, and just last week got the opportunity to visit the newlyweds and stay with them at their apartment. One neat thing about the visit was that Dustin made dinner for us one night, to our shock, he expressed his newly found interest in cooking. This sparked Marc's interest.By the end of the visit Dustin had sold Marc on the idea that as long as you have a recipe, anyone can cook!
Enter I-phone App. Marc somehow found an iphone application that not only allowed him to look up meal recipe's, but it gave him a shopping list as well! So without fear he went to the grocery store ON HIS OWN, and came home with all the correct ingredients, and fired up the grill.
The end product was a new york strip steak with onions in a red wine sauce, garlic bread, salad, corn and my favorite... watermelon.
The evening was a success, everything was cooked to perfection! Hopefully there will be more nights like this one! Thank you Marc and Thank you I-phone!

This is what happens when you leave me at home...

2009-06-22T18:44:00.000-07:00

So this weekend I got a decorating itch. I admit, it had been a while, typically it is about every other weekend I seem to tackle a house project. This weekend, I was back at it!
I love it because Marc can feel it coming.... almost down to a science.
It starts with long stares at the wall, more like analyzing, slowly each area. Then a more rapid eye movement occurs, eyes darting from wall to wall my mind wonders, "Have I had it all wrong this entire time? That can not have possibly gone there!"
Then the madness begins.
Unfortunately I am not the most "organized" decorator. I have no vision, I have no plan, I just act. When I see what I like, I stop. There is no method to the madness.
I thought I would share with you some of my weekend home alone decorating moments!

Before.... The wall to the right was my prey, the wall needed something "Grander"

Down came the picture and up went the mirror. Then I started painting around it. The paint matched the ceiling and the trim, so it was nothing out there.

After the paint was dry, I decided to add some buttons to the wall.

Finished product!

That was fun! More to come!

Pap, this one's for you!

2009-06-21T18:41:00.000-07:00

Happy Fathers Day to a Dad I know and love. I am thankful for you, and for all that you have done for us growing up, and still today. I see a lot of myself in you, and I am thankful above all for your example. Here are a few things that make me love you even more!

You may not think so, but I think you are an artist! Look at this beautiful table you made!

You love the stage.... front and center, or helping behind the scenes.

You are a handyman, and can't help helping out where ever you go! P.S Come back to visit soon!

You taught us how to have fun, and even shared your dance moves with us!

We love you dad! Happy Fathers Day

Bust a move

2009-06-17T14:20:00.000-07:00

Just a little something that made me laugh!

I just hope my kids are as entertaining as this...

Dance moves that rock! @ Yahoo! Video

Why is is so difficult to act like ourself?

2009-06-16T14:26:00.000-07:00

Being a part of the Production Team at Palm Valley, I am able to experience different areas of production which range from helping out back stage, behind the scenes, acting onstage or video.

Yesterday we filmed a segment for the 5 til. (which is our video announcements for the week) Some weeks we are able to film creative quirky little commercials, and some weeks the commercials lean more towards the informative, transferring of information side of things.

During the informative filming, I realized, It it much easier to act like someone else rather than ourself. Why is that?

When it comes to preforming, it is much easier to have someone critique a character, rather than, well you.

I wonder, when does that get easier?