Life as we know it now..

It's always been interesting to me to see how much life can change. When you think about your wedding day...and the day you give birth to your first child you cant help but feel over joyed, teary eyed and think of how AMAZING those days will be.

My wedding day was nothing shy of amazing. As of now, the best day of my life and it will always be one of the best days! But I won't lie--I was 100% surprised on how much life changed afterwards. Not with the relationship between my new husband and I. But between me and friends and family.. some friends I thought I'd have forever.. some family I thought would always be around. It's like.. some people got the idea "well she's married now, she doesnt need us" and that couldn't be any farther from the truth. Married or not.. a girl always needs her friends.. I still need my time with my friends, my time for myself, after all, I want to KEEP my sanity.

I look at our life now..as we are getting ready to welcome our first child into the world. As we are getting everything ready for our baby boy...his room..his clothes washed.. his swings put together.. I cant help but think of what will life be like when he's here? Who else will walk out? We are finally established in our life after relationships lost once we were married..and feel so secure in our life now. I just wonder who will come around and who wont. To be honest.. to me it doesnt matter. I will have my amazing husband and cute baby boy. I know the ones who are still by my side, will still be there. The family and friends who have been there to help me with everything and anything during my pregnancy. The ones that take 2 seconds out of their day to text me and see how i'm doing when they know i've been sick. I'm guilty too.. with not being the best and contacting everyone. We are all grown up now..and have our own lives. and I understand that everyone's life is going in its own direction. and I dont need a phone call or text DAILY to assure me they are there... its the small things to me that matter. the text.. showing to my baby shower, extending a helping hand. Everything that i'd do for them if it were the other way around. In all honesty it kind of makes me laugh to myself. I'm sure once Braxton is born i'll hear from people I havent heard from my whole pregnancy... wanting to come check out the cutie. and then will be gone again afterwards until its once again convinient for them to come around. Which is OK with me, I dont need people like that in my life.. I dont need people like that to rely on.. I know now not to rely on anyone but myself..and my husband.

I know this is kind of a lot of thoughts just thrown on here. But I guess thats the point of blogging. Get everything out and feel better. I guess my point is this.. I'm not going to force anyone to be an active part of Braxton's life..and I'm not going to track anyone down to be apart of his life.. I'm not going to go out of my way to make sure he has relationships with friends or even family that cant pick up the phone themselves. I'm not going to accomodate any one but me, my husband and my child. I'm done reaching out to people who cant reach back. I'm tired of putting SO much effort into relationships that really are non existant without MY effort.

We are SOO excited for him to be here. To be parents.. to learn, to grow, and to do it all together as a team. I couldn't ask for anyone better to be the father of my child. He keeps me sane most of the time. He works so hard to provide for our family. He's the smartest man I know (well you too dad ;) ) I see the way he is with London and other kids and it melts my heart. I can't wait to see him see Braxton for the first time.. to hold him.. comfort him.. just the thoughts alone is enough to make me cry (but what cant make me cry these days??) I feel major relief in knowing that the days I am running on no sleep, and feel like I'm going to lose my sanity, I have him to lean on and that thought brings me so much comfort. We have never been parents before. The thought of being responsible for another innocent life is scary. I'd be lying if I said we weren't scared..what first time parents aren't?? But knowing we have each other.. I know it will all be okay..and such a good experience. Our lives will forever be changed on the day our son is born. Changed for the better.. We think we know what love is like now..and I know that will change once he is here.

Where has time gone??

I know.. I haven't posted in..FOREVER. So let's play catch up :)

I no longer work for RCS and have started working for my dad as a Project Coordinator. I hope to work until the 2nd week of December and then returning in March sometime, part time :)

Braxton is doing well. Growing like crazy. I can now feel his every move. Sometimes it hurts. Sometimes he almost makes me pee myself. Sometimes it looks like waves going on in my belly. But I love every second of it :)

The last 2 ultra-sounds (the last one being at 24 weeks) he was measuring a week big. So I cross my fingers that means he will come a week early (although i'm not getting my hopes up) Oh how I'd LOVE for us to be home for Christmas. and oh how I PRAY I do not go over due!!!

Chris finished painting his room and it looks fantastic :) (pictures to come)

I have been slaving away getting ALL of his laundry done, organized and put away. Everything we got from the baby shower organized and put away. Things put together and in place. Hospital bags packed. I want to be as ready as possible.. and I HATE waiting until the last minute for anything..

My tummy popped out over night a couple weeks ago. I now feel super pregnant. I guess being 8 months its about time right?

Lately I have been extremely tired, not sleeping at night, getting swollen (both face and feet), nauseous and just getting to the part where i'm ready to be done. I have 8 weeks left. Somedays I think WOW that's it?? and others I think WOW still?? But i'm going to enjoy him being in my tummy as much as I can while he's still in there. I know that once he's out, I'll miss feeling him moving all over the place!

What I WONT miss about being pregnant: OILY face, heartburn, restless legs at night, nausea all the time, swollen feet and face, Only being able to sleep on my right side (when i do get to sleep), not being able to bend over to pick something up easily, If my shoes arent slip ons or flip-flops FORGET it!, not being able to drink caffeine (although I probably still wont after he's born since i'm nursing..at least not much), going from not full to OMG i'm so full I'm not going to puke from 1 small bite.

If you haven't already heard (which i'm sure you have!)

It's a BOY!! Chris and I went to the Specialist on Tuesday August 3rd to have our ultra sound to rule out downs. The first thing our nice tech asked us was if we knew what we were having. We said No. She asked if we wanted to know. We said YES. So she put the warm (yes warm not cold..weird huh?) gel on my belly and put the wand on. First thing that popped up on the screen? You guessed it, spread legs and boy parts! As soon as I looked at the screen and said Oh my! and looked over at Chris who was grinning ear to ear. And she confirmed, that in fact yes its a boy!!

After showing us his goodies, he decided he didn't want to cooperate very well. He curled up on my right side and wouldn't move. She was trying to get toes and fingers counted and he was being a little complicated!! Sitting on his hands, keeping his hands on his face, curled in a ball. She tried shaking my tummy and he still wasn't moving. She had me lay on both sides which finally got him to move enough she could get most of the pictures that she was needing!

Not only are we SO excited for a baby boy, we are also SOO SOO excited that he had NO markers for downs at all. Although my blood test was not considered positive, my doctors scale is a lot more "strict" then others, so he still sends people to be safe. Braxton looked completely healthy! All measurements were on target for being 19 weeks.

So far he has not been a very active baby. I feel him from time to time but not like I want to! A lot of my pregnant friends talk about how their baby is kicking ALL day, moving, rolling, flipping. I'm hoping to feel more movement with time, the movement I feel now isnt very strong. Not strong enough for Chris to feel. I've heard that around 22 weeks is when it gets stronger and more constant so I'm hoping that will be the case. So far it's looking like he likes to sleep and hang out. Hopefully he will come out with those great sleeping habbits.. I can only hope right!? haha.

Falling behind

I've totally fallen off of the blogging band wagon. In fact, I think I've fallen off of ALL band wagons. The cooking, cleaning, all of that has been put on hold for when I have the slightest energy to do a few chores at a time. SO on Sunday I will be 17 weeks. The nausea is still holding on STRONG. In fact the last 2 weeks I've been the sickest I've been so far in my pregnancy. (So much for going away at 12 weeks right??) I'm still holding onto faith that my day of feeling GREAT and glowing is just around the corner!!!

Wednesday I had my 16 week check up. I had actually lost almost 5lbs since my last appointment from being so sick and my appetite disappearing on me. (Don't worry, I'm still eating!!!) they did measurements and everything looked great! Baby's heart beat was a strong 156 and you could hear him/her flipping around like CRAZY! I can NOT wait until I can feel all of that movement!!

On June 16th we had our 12 week check up/ultra sound. It is AMAZING to see the change in the baby in just a couple short weeks. He/she looked like a baby..not a peanut or a small animal. It was amazing!!! He/she was bouncing all over the place, and sucking their thumb. It made everything seem so much more real!!!


In 2 1/2 weeks (August 3rd) we have our appointment with a specialist for an ultrasound. Which means we get to find out the sex of our baby!!! We are sooo sooo excited (although Chris is CONVINCED its a boy) We are excited to find out so we can start the nursery and all that fun stuff!!!


I was surprised at work from Chris today with some PRETTY flowers and a super sweet card :) he wasn't in the "dog house" and there wasnt a special occasion. Just because i've been so sick lately and he wanted to make me feel better!! I couldn't ask or a better husband, best friend and soon to be daddy!!

Picture give away!

Check out this awesome give away! It could be used for anyyything! How great?
http://www.capribirdphotography.blogspot.com/

Better EARLY than late!

There's always someone to pray for...

2 blog posts in 1 week!?! CRAZY! haha. I told myself that I need to get better at blogging. Not just for the (few) people that read it..but for me. Its sort of like a journal. The more I blog, the more I have to look back on, and I love the idea of that!

There's a blog that I keep up with regularly. I saw the article in the tri city herald about the car accident that involved Caleb (Cale) Darling, the article had a link to his blog and ever since then I've read it daily. My heart cant help but ache for his wife Kathleen, being a wife myself, I couldn't imagine being in her shoes. For someone i've never met, I can already say she's one of the toughest people I "know." Her outlook on the situation is amazing, her faith in God is so strong, and leaning on God is what has helped her get through this crazy nightmare. I include the Darling family in my nightly prayers as I know a lot of people around the world do. Cale and his recovery can never have too many people praying for him, So I ask you to take a peak at their blog...and include them in your prayers as well! In her post yesterday, she posted about another young woman who is in the same situation as herself, who is needing prayers as well. If that's the least we can do...why not? http://caledarling.blogspot.com/

Nausea Nausea Go Away..

So as of Monday I hit my 12 week mark. Now i'm patiently waiting for this nausea to go away. I promised it, if it left I wouldn't be mad, nor would I miss it. I'm also waiting for SOME of my energy to come back to me. We had a DR appointment a couple weeks ago that went well. The DR said my placenta bleeding looked like it had stopped, there was still 1 spot left but he said over time it will heal itself. So the anti-biotics worked. Although they were NASTY! I had the taste like I had sucked on a penny all day in my mouth for a WEEK after I was DONE with the meds. But hey..it's all for a good cause right?

I was 10w 3d at our last appointment and this was our ultrasound picture. Looks more like a gerbil then a peanut =) It sure has grown in the 2 weeks between the appointments!


We have our 12 week ultra-sound next week. I was told by then it will look more like a human baby then a pet or a food =) I will be 13w 3d at the next ultra sound so I know it will be pretty amazing to see the HUGE change in 3 short weeks.

Other then the nausea and extreme tiredness the pregnancy is going well. I cant wait to be obviously showing instead of looking extremely fat. I cant wait to feel the baby move, and I can't wait to find out the sex so we can start preparing the nursery and all of the fun stuff that comes along with that!!

We're alive

It's been awhile..I know. I've been bad at blogging lately. But we are alive and doing well. As most of you may know (not too sure a whole lot of people read this) we have happily announced that we are expecting a baby!

My first appointment was on May 7th and it went very well! He did an ultra sound and I was pretty much right on with how far I was thinking I was. My first due date was 12/19 and then after the ultra sound, the baby was measuring about a week small so that pushed it to 12/26. He said that's typically normal and at my 12 week ultra sound the measurements will be more accurate and that will be the date we go by. So we will see. I go to the DR on the 26th again and get to have another ultra sound. I'm super excited because I think it will look more like a baby then a dot =) We did get to hear the heartbeat and it all was an amazing experience. We are super duper excited and can't wait to find out what we're having to start the preparations!

(This was our ultra sound May 7th, I was 7w 6d)

Our good friends Cecilia and Tony welcomed their son Mason James on May 18th at 4:04 PM. He was 6 weeks early so he only weighs 4lbs 3oz and was 18inches long. He is in the NICU but doing really well. Has been breathing on his own since birth! Cecilia is doing well also, and is expected to be discharged today. They are thinking they will have to keep Mason around 10 days. We got to see him last night and he's SUPER cute. We are sooo happy for them =)

Kennel Crazy

I hope everyone had a fantastic Easter =) Not a lot has been going on around our household. Chris is still in school, but now goes Tuesdays and Thursdays and then most Saturday's. Luckily he has had the last couple Saturday's off so that's been nice. But this Saturday he's back to school. We made the mistake when we moved into our house, on not letting our sod sit long enough before allowing the dogs on it. Which means 90% of our yard was DESTROYED. Chris put up a ghetto fence in the middle of our yard to divide it, so he ripped up the sod and prepped it and then laid some fertilizer and seed. I came home from work on Monday and somehow Broady and Abby had gotten over the fence Chris built, and onto the side of the yard they werent suppose to be on, and messed everything up! SO we decided it was time to invest in a dog kennel, and during the day that's where they will be! Although we have mixed feelings about keeping them kenneled for 8+ hours a day...we know that if we want a nice yard we can enjoy--it HAS to be done. Off to lowes we went, purchased everything we needed, and by 9 that night, our kennel was up! Getting them into the Kennel yesterday morning was EASY! I was surprised. They followed me right in there. When i got home...well..as you can see...they were ready to be let out! And they were SO hyper!

As you can see it isnt a TINY Kennel. So i think that over time, they will find comfort in their new area! We are going to lay concrete around the edges so they cant ever dig out. And lay a small pad to put the nice doghouse that Chris is building for them. I thought getting them in the Kennel today was giong to be A LOT harder since they now knew what it was. But once again they all follwed me in there! I dont think it will be bad as we both thought at first. They are still allowed to be out and run wild--as long as we are there to supervise! We do need to get better at taking them for walks. and once hunting season comes, I think they will get plenty of exercise!!!

Since our dogs are being kept from destroying what little yard we have left, and the weather is getting nicer, I am SO excited to start getting our yard looking good and being able to use it for BBQ's and just plain relaxation! I will definitely start taking some pictures, and once our yard is somewhat back to normal, i think some before and after pictures are a MUST! We are going to extend our patio as well...and next summer I was promised some nice patio furniture!! WOOHOO!

I'm So Lucky- Post 31

I'm so lucky to be able to BBQ tonight with some fantastic friends =) Brandy Sean and baby Boston are coming over to do some BBQ'ing for dinner. yumm yumm! I can't wait. I'm STARRRVING!

I'm So Lucky- Post 30

I'm so lucky to have a PF Chang's in our area WHICH offers a Happy Hour and I got lettuce wraps and an ice tea for $7 =) woohoo oh AND this fortune =)

I'm So Lucky- Post 29

I'm so lucky to have some major patience! We ordered our wedding pictures a couple months ago. Come to find out they needed some more information. So she re-posted the pictures today so I could go through and jot down the other info needed. So finally our pictures that came in our package will be here the end of this week or beginning of next.

I'm So Lucky- Post 28

I'm so lucky that I only have 1 more week left of lent. and I can finally have some diet pepsi--or dr pepper..mmmmm

I'm So Lucky- Post 27

I'm so lucky to have such great friends that we can get together with and BBQ. The weather is SO nice. AND to have a crafty husband who bought a new light for above our dining room table, and installed it!!WOO-HOO! One more thing to check off my list =)

BEFORE


AFTER

I'm So Lucky- Post 26

I'm so lucky to have such a darling husband who 1)brought me breakfast this morning and 2) had to come all the way back to bring me a lunch, since the one i brought was freezer burnt! How nice of him =)

I'm So Lucky- Post 25

I'm so lucky to have such a great husband who listens to my daily car findings and doesnt ever tell me to SHUT UP! lol. We eventually will be trading in my car--for something more 'family oriented' if I had it my way--Id get a Subaru Tribeca. Depending on when we trade it in, and what kind of deal we can find will be the outcome of what I get. But THIS is whatI really want =)

I'm So Lucky- Post 24

I'm so lucky to have some 'me' time. Although I hate that Chris' goes to school so much--and has such late nights. But I do every now and again appreciate those nights--because that means I get some 'me' time. and sometimes that is much much needed. I've been doing a lot of thinking lately--and a me time night was very nice =)

I'm So Lucky- Post 23

I'm so lucky to get off work at 4:30--which is WAY better than my old job. I still get to enjoy the sunshine and nice weather. AHH. Sunshine dont ever leave!

I'm So Lucky: Post 22

I'm so lucky to have such a great mom I can call and vent to when i'm frustrated! It's been a while since I've come to that point--but i definitely took advantage of it tonight! Thanks Mom for listening =)

I'm So Lucky: Post 21

I'm so lucky to have Morgan as such a good friend for 10+ years =) It's so weird that it's been that long--seems like yesterday we were in middle school having sleep overs and all cramming onto Morgan's futon! Love you & Happy birthday Morgan!

I'm So Lucky: Post 20

I'm so lucky to have such a fun family! Today--Chris got up and went shooting with Tony at 10. I headed to Ky's game that was at 10:15. We had some family from Spokane/Seattle in town to watch my cousin (who lives in Seattle) who was playing in the same tournament. Afterwards we went to my grandmas and ordered pizza and hung out. It was a great time =)

I'm So Lucky: Post 19

I'm so lucky to be in love with my best friend. Today Chris and I have been married for 6 months and I cant believe it!! Where has time gone? I feel like it was yesterday I was picking 'the' dress, doing our bridal registry, and feeling my heart pound when I was about to walk down the isle. I look at pictures taken on our wedding day and feel somewhat sad that it's over--we had SO much fun! But I am so excited to start our journey together, the good days and the bad days. I have been extremely blessed with such an amazing man, who is more than i've EVER asked for and imagined. I can't wait to start a family with him--and knowing that I get to wake up to him every morning is the best feeling EVER! I love you babe =)
Our first picture EVER together. 07/08

I'm So Lucky: Post 18

I'm so lucky to have friends to help get me motivated to lose weight =) I have been OH so lazy. I'm going to give it another try to see how I do this time. I stocked up on lean cousines and protein shakes last night at walmart. and I have THIS poster (see below) staring at me all day at my desk (Thanks Mary!) So if this isn't motivation--what is??

I'm So Lucky: Post 17

I'm so lucky that both Chris and I get paid weekly! It makes it SO much easier to pay bills--and do the thing I hate most, GROCERY SHOP. After work I'm off to wal-mart for some misc. things. I dont know WHY I dislike grocery shopping so much--but I do. I'd rather be knee deep in laundry. Weird?? Some people probably think so.

I'm So Lucky: Post 16

I'm so lucky because tonight my husband doesnt have school so we get to hang out =) He goes to school Mon & Wed nights from 630-930 but he leaves the house at 6. So he comes home for about 15 min to eat--and leaves again. He also goes to school most Saturdays 8-430. Which means less time we get to spend together!

I'm So Lucky: Post 15

I'm so lucky to have such an amazing Grandpa who's always been there for me! I pray that his surgery this evening goes smoothly and he has a speedy recovery!

I'm So Lucky: Post 14

I'm so lucky to have lazy Sunday's with my husband! Nothing better than lounging around and nice naps during the day! I'm also lucky to have such great support from my husband, friends and family.

I'm So Lucky: Post 13

I'm so lucky to have such great friends to BBQ and hang out with =) We always seem to have a great time doing nothing too special.

I'm So Lucky: Post 12

I'm so lucky to have an amazing husband who finished our attic today. We now have an extra place for all our crap! I feel like this weekend will consist of some CLEANING and ORGANIZING. I HOPE this weekend is SUPER nice outside so I can open my windows and clean away =) Hope everyone has a fannnnntastic weekend!

I'm So Lucky: Post 11

I'm so lucky that Apple is super fast and I got my replacement phone this evening =) I sent out my broken one Monday on my lunch and I already got my new one Thursday (They tried to deliver it at 10am but no one was home to sign for it) Thanks Apple for that fast return!!!

I'm So Lucky: Post 10

I'm so lucky that my aunt had a phone I could use until I get my new iphone in the mail. It stopped working on me over the weekend! Although I miss my phone, Im glad I had something to use in the meantime!

I'm So Lucky: Post 9

I'm so lucky because I have a family that gets together regularly. I am very close to my family and LOVE that we do regular Sunday dinners as a family at my Grandma's. Not a lot of families have that opportunity to have their immediate family in one place, and I consider myself very lucky =)

I'm So Lucky: Post 8

I'm so lucky to have a JOB! I know there are people out there that are still struggling with finding a job because of our economy. Whenever I get stressed out or upset with things at work, I just remember how lucky I am to be working and making decent money with BENEFITS.

I'm So Lucky: Post 7

I'm so lucky to have a relaxing day at home with my husband. Went for a walk with the doggies, cleaned up the yard, picked up around the house and just hung out. Sometimes they days we do "nothing" are the best days we have!

I'm So Lucky: Post 6

I'm so lucky to have such great friends!! Although there have been certain things that have happened that I still sometimes struggle with, with certain individuals who are no longer apart of our life, I am reminded on how truly lucky I am! Most of my girlfriends are ones i've had for many years!! I love you guys! Thank you for everything--and just being you!

I'm So Lucky: Post 5

I'm so lucky that I have friends like Amy that look out for me =) She referred us to a vet in Sunnyside to take Bailey to, to get fixed. I was thinking we were going to have to pay around $400 to take her to a vet around here. Amy took her dog Lady to this place in sunnyside and said they were awesome so I gave them a call for a price quote. It will cost us ONLY $95 to get Bailey fixed. WOOHOO I made her apointment and we are set! I can't WAIT to get this over with. I already am starting to feel bad for my poor girl and its still a month and a half away (they were already booked til the 2nd week in April when i called! WOW!)

I'm So Lucky: Post 4

I'm oh so lucky because I have a car for all of my transportation. That same car happens to have a sub and a sunroof which work AWESOME together on nice warm spring days like today =)

I'm So Lucky- Post 3

I'm so lucky because again, I have a wonderful co-worker who brought me a sweet snack (that isnt chocolate) because i was craving something sweet. She's pretty fantastic =)

I'm So Lucky

Since March is the month of St. Patty's day which goes hand in hand with the 'Luck of the Irish' I decided to do yet another blogging challenge. Everyday I will post something I am "Lucky" for. Whether its something small..or big. After all. I am quite a lucky girl =)

Since I just decided today I will do a post for yesterday AND today.

For Yesterday:
I'm so lucky I have a friend to meet me at Tumbleweeds for lunch. Tumbleweeds is my addiction lately. Thanks Tawn =)

Today:
I am so lucky that I have such an AWESOME co-worker that will let me "steal" a crystal light from her desk even though she isnt here. (I asked!!) Somedays this is juuuust what i need to get me through the rest of the day. Thanks Mar!

Twenty Eight!

My final post for my 28 days of love is for ALL of my friends and family. I love you all dearly and I wouldnt be the person I am today without you. Whether we've been friends for 10 years or 10 months you still make me the person I am today. I love you all very very much =)


For fun...

Twenty-Seven

This post is about my sister in law Shannon. Although we have never met in person, I still do love her dearly. She is so nice, funny and down to earth. I know if I ever need someone to vent to about Chris, that will actually make an impact on him, its her. Although the distance between us is HUGE, the relationship between her and Chris you'd never know they lived so far away. We try to stay as updated in each others lives as we can, with us both being so busy sometimes its hard. We are hoping to make a trip to see them sometime this year. Shannon has a wonderful husband and OHH so cute (as you can see) 2 year old son, whom Chris has never met either. We are so excited to get together sometime this year! I think it will be an awesome experience for us all!

Twenty-Six

This post is about my cousin April. Lately we have been talking a lot more via email because we are cool like that at work =) and I have to say I sure do admire her dedication to life, her kids, and her health. She has been participating in the biggest loser competition and is kicking butt! She is a single mom to 2 gorgeous kids and she takes it on full throttle with no complaining. She is such a good mom and loves her kids endlessly! I love you April! and am So proud of all you have done and continue to do =)

Twenty-Five

My next post is about my Aunt Syd! Oh boy do I wish her and her cute little family lived closer! When I was little we were SUPER close. We are still close, but I wish she was here especially now that she has such an adorable little man I dont get to see very much! I miss them dearly and love them all Oh so much =)

Twenty-Four

I dont have a picture for today's post either. But Today's post is about a girl i've known pretty much my whole life. We have home video's of us together, when she cut her hair to match her barbies. OH man! I consider this girl like my little sister..and i'd do anything for her and her baby boy that is on the way. My post is about my good friend Tawney! Tawney and I have known each other for EVER. At some points we have lost contact but we always find it again. Lately especially we have been talking A LOT more and I am SO excited for her baby Ryder to get here!!!

Twenty-Three

Unfortunately I dont have a picture to accompany this one..but my post today is about my friend Cecilia. Cecilia and I both got hired together at HAPO close to 3 years ago. Ever since then we have become friends. Lately we have become even better friends because we only live 2 blocks from each other, but my husband and her boyfriend are like the same people. Its actually sort of creepy. We have A LOT of fun together when we hang out. She is someone i can talk to about anything and she's always there willing to give her advice. We definitely love hanging out with them and love the new friendship we have sparked =)

Twenty-Two

My post today is about my dear friend Amy =) Amy is also one of the girls i've been friends with for EVER. We go way back in time and its weird to think we've been friends for that long. time flies! At one point Amy was also my roomate! We had a great time living together. It was definitely a good roomate experience. As we continue to grow we sometimes grow apart but we always find ourselves hanging out! I love that about us and our friendship. We of course have had some hard times..but that always makes a friendship stronger! I love you Amy!


Amy and my brother breaking it down at our wedding....

And just for laughs....me and amy back in the day =)

Twenty-One

This post is another one of those that are typically the first one or two. Today's post is about my Daddy =) My dad is such an amazing guy. Although we don't always see eye to eye, I have come to realization that its completely normal. At the end of the day hes still my dad and in my heart i'll always be a "daddy's girl." We have over-come a lot in our relationship. From the divorce, to the passing of my Grandma, to the recent passing of Lonnie. All in which I can see now, has made us a lot closer. We went through one of the hardest days of our lives, together. We struggled with the death of Linny and Lonnie, together. We were together when my Grandma took her last breath, and we were together when we got the phone call that Lonnie joined God in heaven. We cried together, and held on to each other. I know that a lot of people say they have the best dad...but I think mine just might take the cake. He is so strong, selfless, and never stops loving. He's loved me at the times when I dont think i'm loveable, and he's helped me up whenever I fall down. He's done a lot for both Chris and I, and we could NEVER express our appreciaton for him. He's there in all the bad times, but also there for all the good. I will always love my dad endlessly and will always consider myself Daddys girl.

Twenty

My post today is about my aunt Amy. Like I said I am super close with my family. I can usually tell them anything..or talk about anything, knowing I wont be judged. We always have a good time together and laugh until my face hurts from laughing so much. My aunt Amy is another person i've always been close with. She is always there when needed and such a good mom to her kids. I dont know where i'd be in life without my family! =)

Nineteen

Today my post is about a very dear friend of mine. I thought today would be the BEST day to blog about her because its HER BIRTHDAY! SO first off, Happy Birthday (for like the 3rd time haha). My post today is about my friend Ashley. Ashley and I go wayyyyyy back. We always had so much fun together as teenagers and doing what teen girls do. Now we are all grown up and still continue our friendship. Ashley is one of the strongest girls I know...she has been put through some pretty ugly stuff and she seems to go through it with a smile and hope and most importantly Faith. She has taught me not to give up...ever. When i think its BAD, it can always be worse. We dont have to talk EVERY day to know that our friendship is still there and still strong as ever. Whenever either of us need someone to lean on or talk to, we dont hesitate to call/text the other. I know that Ashley will always be there for me whenever I may need her. They always say that lifetime friends are hard to find...but I think so far i'm doing pretty good =) I love you Ash! And I admire you for EVERYTHING you do!! I'm always here. HAVE A HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!! YOU DESERVE IT!

Eighteen

Anyone that knows me..knows that my family is my everything. I take pride in my family, and I'd have to say hands down, I have the best there is (although i'm sure some of you beg to differ ;) ) I have always been SO close to my family. We have regular sunday dinners, celebrate everyone's birthday like its their last one, and we have a great time. My aunt Jaime has ALWAYS been there for me. She is one of the few people I feel like I can talk to... and if its something confident, I know it will stay between us. Anything I need..or need help with..she's always there. Like the starbucks cup for instance :) but really...even with more important stuff haha. Jaime- Thank you for always being there! Thank you for being one of the best aunts a girl could ask for =)

Seventeen

My next post should've been one of the first ones I did. I thought maybe if I waited until the middle...id know more of what to say. Nope that didn't work. My post today is about my Mom. Anyone that knows me well, knows that our relationship has been rocky a time or two. But that doesn't take any of my love away from her.She is the woman that carried me, gave birth to me, and has never stopped loving me. She's my biggest fan when I need one. I wouldn't be the person I am today without her. I have learned many things from her...and I know that I will continue to. I know that when the day comes to where I'm carrying a child of my own, every question I have regardless of what time it is...I can call my momma. I am very blessed for that!

Sixteen

Today my post is about my Grandma Lin =) I don't even know where to start except Today would've been her 65th birthday. There are usually a few days that seem to be especially harder than others, today being one of those. I never knew what it was like to miss someone so much it hurt. Oh man what i'd do to hear her voice, give her a hug, or get one of her "big wet ones". She was SUCH an AMAZING woman. I LOVE when I run into people that recognize my last name and say "Any relation to Lin" and I say yes she was my grandma. And they have SOO many nice things to say. It usually brings tears to my eyes and so much joy knowing all of the people she has touched. Linny: I miss you more then words could EVER describe but I find peace knowing you are no longer suffering and we will one day be reunited. I know you'd LOVE Chris and be so proud of us. I also know that you are up there giving all those angels a run for their money, and kicking some butt in aerobics. Give Lonnie a BIG BIG hug for me. I love you =)

Fifteen

Today my post is about my Grandpa David! Tomorrow is his birthday =) and this man is OH so special! He has always been there for me! Both him and my grandma have opened up their home to me many times. Everytime I'd move out he'd tell me "I'm not moving your stuff, you dont need to go anywhere" and then end up helping =) He has the kindest heart and wouldnt hurt a fly. All of us grandkids appreciate him very much! Even more when we have something that needs fixing =) Jalen would always say..."Grandpa can fix ANYTHING!"

Fourteen

Happy Valentines day! I hope everyone has a fantastic valentines day and has lots of fun spending time with their loved ones!!

Today my post is about Reyna. Not only is she one of my good friends but she is the one I met Chris though. Without her.. I wouldnt be celebrating Valentines day with my wonderful husband. Or have a husband for that matter! Reyna is a very dear friend and a FANTASTIC mother. Her and Selly have marked permanent places on our hearts. Although we havent spent as much time together as we use to, or as I'd like to. I know that the friendship is there without a question. Both Chris and I love both Reyna and Selly very very much and had so much fun our wedding day!!!

Thirteen

Today my post is about our dear family friend Lonnie. Lonnie lost his battle with cancer September 5, 2009. Being the 2nd person that i've lost to Cancer, it doesnt make it any easier the 2nd time around. Lately there have been so many things that remind me of him. Or old pictures that I come across. This man was SO strong and fought his hardest until the very end. He LOVED his family and friends more than anything and would do anything for them. He is one of the people that make you want to better yourself, because of how amazing they are. He has and continues to touch SO many lifes. I dont think he realized the impact he has had on our community.

Twelve

Today my post is about my cousin Rudy! Although we have grown apart the last year or so.. It will never change how thankful I am for him and his services to our country! Growing up we were the best of friends. Even through elementary and middle school we had the same friends. We spent a lot of time together as kids and high schoolers and I am so thankful to be able to hold onto those memories. The day he left for bootcamp was SO HARD! But he has bettered himself and I am so proud of him for taking that leap to do so!!!

Eleven

Today my post is about my friend Katey! Although the last couple of years we have drifted apart, and our lives sort of took different paths I still love her dearly! Today is her birthday so I felt it was completely appropriate for her post to take place today!! Katey, I hope you have a fantastic birthday as we both know you deserve it! Love you much and cant wait to play "catch up" soon! xoxo

Ten

I decided to do one more post because I somehow double posted on a couple days and since I started the 3rd of February i decided jsut to do another post to bring me even as if I started the 1st of February. So i will do the complete 28-days of love. Not 26. ANYWAYS--

My other post today will be about Morgan. Morgan and I have been friends for about 10 years as well. Her Sam and I all became friends around the same time. Our friendship has stuck over the years and boy am I glad!! We have some really great times together. Our boys share the same interests and go hunting together which has left us with a few days where we do our own thing. Morgan is also one of those people that I know if I dont talk to for a few days, if i ever needed anything she'd be there in a heartbeat. We have a lot of the same interests and have gone through a lot of the same things, like losing our Grandmothers. Morgan is a very strong, dedicated person. I am so glad that we havent went separate ways and forgot about each other. When I picture my life, Morgan is one of my friends that I always picture in it. Whether its when I have kids...or 10, 20, 30 years from now. She is definitely a life time friend, and for that i'm forever grateful.

Nine

I feel today's post is very appropriate because not only is this lady awesome, today is her birthday =) I have only known Mary since I started working at Randolph in September. But it feels like we have been friends for years! She is SO SO Sweet. Her faith has taught me a lot about my own faith and what I do with it. She is a very very strong lady!! I admire her for all of her bumps she has hit on her road of life..and I sometimes look at her strength and apply it to myself! I was totally blessed with her as not only a co-worker but a friend. I know that if our paths split and someone leaves Randolph, our friendship wont stop there. Thank you Mary! You have helped me more than you know!!!!

Eight

I have some amazing friends. I really do. I consider myself VERY VERY blessed. Although sometimes our lives are crazy and hectic and we may not talk every single day but I'd never second guess picking up the phone to dial their number at ANY time I may need them. Sam and I have been friends for ooooh 10 years or so. Since the 6th grade. Of course we have had our falling outs time to time (more so when we were in middle school) but she is such an amazing friend!! She hast he softest heart. I know she'd always be there for me or help me with anything i'd ever need! She is always one of the first people call when I need advice for anything. both her and her daughter have blessed my life more than they know. I am so very thankful for Sam and everything she has done and continues to do for me and for our friendship. I love you Sam!

Seven

This will be a double whammy post. Austin and Cooper. The littlest of the brothers. They are growing up so fast, I feel like every time I blink, they get older and older. They are so fun and funny they always seem to crack me up. I love having little brothers. Everyone's always asked if I wish I had a sister. I remember when my mom was pregnant with Austin and we went to the ultra sound to find out the sex, then the ultra sound tech said "its a boy" I wanted to cry! I wanted a sister SO BAD. But now that i've experienced having 5 little brothers. I wouldn't ask for it to be any other way!!!

Six

My cousin Brittany. She reminds me A LOT of myself when I was her age. I cant believe she's already 17 and a JR in high school. She's so funny and such a smart a$$ i most definitely see a lot of myself in her. She's like the little sister I've never had. We have a lot of fun together and have a lot of the same views on things. She is such a smart girl with her head straight on her shoulders. She will do A LOT of great things with her life I just know it. I am very proud of the obstacles she has and will continue to over come which makes her the beautiful girl she is today!

Five

My animals =) I know they aren't technically "people" But they sure think they are human so they definitely count!! I love our dogs. They each have their own individual personalities. They are hilarious, they love me on my good days and my bad days, they are always someone I can count on to be excited when I walk in the door. AND they are the best cuddle-rs. I love how as soon as Chris leaves for work they all claim their spot next to me in bed. Bailey loves to lay on me and cuddle me and lick me to death. I love how the nights Chris has school they keep me company. They always make me laugh!!
(Bailey sleeping on me)

Four

My little brother Kyler. Well.. Little in age, big in height! I cannot believe that he is 17 and next year will be a Senior in high school It seems like just yesterday I was a senior in high school. This boy has overcome a lot in his life. He wasn't always dealt a good hand, but he's made the best of it. He has come SO FAR over the last years and I couldnt be more proud of him. He has made himself a role model to the other boys, and become quite the athlete. I love watching Kyler play ball. He does everything a 17 year old should do. Pour his heart into a sport, get good grades, and love his family unconditionally.

L-O-V-E Post #3

3 in a row? Go me! Although I will probably do all of my posting from the weekend on Monday because we have yet to get a new computer! It is on the to-get list though!

Anywayyyys.. My post today is going to be about my cousin Ashely. Ever since I was young I looked up to her! She was always my gorgeous older cousin that I felt so cool to hang around. As I grew up we got close on a whole new level. A more.."adult" level. I can tell her anything and everything (even the gross TMI stuff hah) and know that 1. I can trust her completely with the information I give her and 2. She will give me the best advice she can! She is always one of the first people I go to with problems, good news, bad news, any news really. When I think I cant do something she reminds me that I can. I try my hardest to be there for her the same way she is with me, and I think I do a pretty good job at it. She's like a sister I've never had. Sometimes you never understand why things happen to such good people. But I know God has GREAT things in store for Ashley. If you cant get through it, he wont bring you to it. I love you Ash!