grace is falling..

in love with this necklace

2012-01-15T21:02:00.000-08:00

I saw this necklace a few months ago on designmom.com and instantly fell in love. Then, I forgot about it. But, today I started thinking about my 30th birthday coming just around the corner. Cody and I aren't big on giving gifts, but how sweet would Owen's name look hanging around my neck. I think this is a big enough hint, don't you?

image from brevity

for our Santa toy

2012-01-13T19:23:00.000-08:00

in love with homemade baby food

2012-01-13T18:22:00.000-08:00

I had the day off work today. It was technically a snow day. There was no snow. There was no ice. It even warmed up and was sunny. But, who am I to argue with the district. So, I decided to ignore any cleaning that needed to be done and just make baby food for my baby. Cody went off to a coffee shop and Owen laid down for a nap and I went to work chopping, boiling, and blending (which is like meditation for me).

My friend, Mary, and I made our first few batches together and then split the outcome. But, this time we just couldn't get our schedules together, so I was on my own. I found five recipes from Baby Love. Here is what I came out with:

1) Cinnamon Apple Raisin with Oatmeal Cereal

2) Apples and Prunes

3) Apricots and Peaches with Oatmeal Cereal

4) Pureed Carrots (not pictured)

Our freezer is busting now with ice cube trays. Each dish filled up 2-3 trays. Depending on how much Owen eats, we should be stocked for awhile.

Owen watched me make the last couple of batches and then was extremely hungry. So, we sat down and ate a bowlful filled with a serving of each. And then we ate another bowlful. He hasn't eaten that great in a long time. It might have just been me, but I swear he was saying, "Mmm.." after every bite.

In love with 8 months

2012-01-10T18:49:00.001-08:00

Owen is 8 months! To celebrate, he got his first littlest of little tooth. Just a tiny sharp point sticking out.
He is sitting up and reaching for things. Figured out his first toy. LOVES baths. Hesitant in rolling over except when he's on your lap or on a comfy surface like the couch or a fluffy bed.
He's just a pure joy to live with. Words can't express how we have fallen for him.

in love with baptism

2012-01-08T12:21:00.000-08:00

Owen's baptism ceremony on December 23rd. It was beautifully perfect. There is so much to say about baptism in general, not the least of my own child. But, for now, I'm going to prepare for our 2nd celebration with our Nashville family.

Owen, God bless and keep you.

Soap and water

2012-01-04T19:13:00.000-08:00

Soap and water mixed together form the perfect medicine for a sick baby.

Owen loves his bath so much. Sometimes we hurry through dinner to get to bath time faster. Then, as we are watching the water fill up the tub and the bubbles gets foamy and sparkly, our legs and arms swim through the air trying to get close enough to dive in. Our diaper barely makes it off. And then, where once there was a fussy runny-nosed baby there is a bright eyed smiling Owen. Just what the doctor (mommy) ordered.

In love with my bottle organization

2012-01-03T18:10:00.001-08:00

We went to Ikea while we were in Texas. I filled our already packed car with some water glasses for $3, a lampshade, some doormats, recycling bins, and this hand little organization tub.

It has three compartments and it has made my nightly bottle making ritual just amazing. I'm falling for the little things in life!

2011-11-27T11:01:00.001-08:00

Tuesday before Thanksgiving we went back to our pediatrician to check on Owen. He had been sick for almost two weeks. His energy level was zero and he cried when you moved him around. Instead of grabbing his toes during diaper changes, he went stiff as a board and whined. He wouldn't pull to sit up or bear weight on his legs. Instead of insisting on being swaddled and in his crib for naps, he would fall asleep on us instantly and for hours at a time. And he had a fever for 8 days. Our doctor could tell he wasn't acting like a normal 6 month old. He sent us to the ER immediatley to be admitted to Vanderbilt Children's.

We saw lots of doctors and specialists. They did lots of physical exams and asked lots of questions. But, all of them said Owen had a virus lasting a little longer than usual. Our pediatrician insisted this wasn't a virus. His liver enzymes, white blood cells, and platelet counts were all elevated. Owen was uncomfortable and in pain and we needed to find out why.

The Infectious Disease team and pediatric cardiologists decided to do an echocardiogram and an EKG anyway. The echo showed an inflammation in the blood vessels of Owens heart. We finally had a diagnosis. Kawasaki disease. This causes inflammation in blood vessels all over the body, causing the fever and discomfort. The heart being the most critical of these.

Late Wednesday night, Owen was given healthy amounts of Asprin and an immunoglobulin transfusion. Thursday morning, he was standing, smiling, and playing with toys. Since then, we have been home and he's getting back to his old self more and more everyday.

This morning, Owen smiled and squealed when I went into his room. He stood on my lap and talked his baby talk after he ate. He grabbed his toes while I changed his diaper. Owen's back....and I'm falling in love all over again.

...in love with a sick day

2011-11-13T08:56:00.000-08:00

Owen called in sick today.

He has a fever. He just isn't feel himself today.

Hey, look! He cracked a smile. Look at that rosy cheeks.

Much to my delight, Owen wants to cuddle when he isn't feel well.

...in love with bath time

2011-11-13T08:44:00.000-08:00

..in love with a visit home

2011-11-13T08:40:00.000-08:00

I can only be away from Texas for so long before I have to pack up my husband, baby, and everything we own, shove it in a compact car, and drive eight hours through the middle of the night. Luckily, when we get there we have these beautiful faces greeting us.

Sometimes a visit home with all the beautiful ladies in our life is just what we need.

The Texas fall was just beginning. We spent a lot of time in my mom's backyard drinking coffee, eating lunches, and staring and Owen.

It is confirmed. Fat cheeks are hereditary.

Do you love this rainbow striped jumper? I had to put it on my baby immediately. It brightens up any gloomy day.

While my mom and sisters gushed over Owen, Cody got plenty of time to watch the Rangers in the World Series. But, let's move right along shall we? (they lost in case you don't follow)

It is 100% guaranteed that my mom can get Owen to take a nap on her. Something I haven't been able to do since Owen grew out of the newborn stage. What a precious moment with Marmie and Owen.

Cousins Jackson, Harrison, and Edison came down for a quick visit. I envisioned a sweet picture of all four boys. We got this instead.

Edison was the calm in the storm.

...for Owen's first meal

2011-11-03T20:08:00.000-07:00

Owen ate his first meal. Rice cereal and banana. He liked it a lot. He is so precious. So, why was the whole thing a little heart breaking? It seems to feel that way with every milestone we come across lately. Equally sad as it is delightful.

We taped the whole thing.

...for boys that wear pink

2011-11-03T18:33:00.000-07:00

Owen is borrowing some cloth diapers from his friend Magnolia. Real men wear pink.

...in love with Halloween

2011-11-01T20:21:00.000-07:00

Owen's first Halloween was last night. He was a pumpkin in pajamas (aka we were lazy). But, hey! His cloth diaper even matched! Take a look of those thighs!

Hope your Halloween was fun and sweet. My teeth hurt from all the sweetness of Owen.

...in love with these newborn pictures

2011-10-30T19:01:00.000-07:00

These are insanely late. Do you hear me! Insanely late!! Our friend Sharon Stewart came over one afternoon when Owen was just three weeks old. Did you hear me?? Three weeks old!! She did an amazing job (and deserves to be showcased). So amazing that I cried the whole time she was showing us the final products. I still tear up when I see them. Those tiny, long fingers. That pointed top lip. Those round black eyes.

I have to add all of them. Sorry if your teeth are aching from all the sweetness.

When I look at these pictures, I see this little tiny version of Owen. We didn't even really know him quite yet. And we are just barely scratching the surface.

Those first few weeks of life with Owen were amazing. I remember feeding and rocking him and just crying my eyes out. I didn't even know why I was crying. Now, I know why. I was falling in love. It is just such an overwhelming, one-sided, unselfish, all consuming kind of love that all I could do was cry while my heart grew in ways I never could have imagined. Thank you Sharon for capturing such a special time for me.

5 months of Owen Charles Spriggs

2011-10-10T19:16:00.000-07:00

Owen is 5 months old. I can't believe we have known him for so long...and only for such a short time.

His head is cottony soft and always smells like a powdery baby. But, this day he smelled like candy. He must have sweetness oozing out of his body.

Look at those blue eyes.

Owen is a big 5 month old. He is healthy and happy and already trying to sit on my hip. Crazy kiddo.

He isn't sitting up yet. That's ok.

He loves to stand. If you're lucky enough you can hold his soft, chubby hands.

When a pacifier isn't available those two fingers are his new go to.

I think he might be the best thing I have ever done in my life.

p.s. these beautiful photos were beautifully taken by our wonderful friend Rebekka Seale. She takes our pictures, bakes us wonderful treats, sings to Owen, and paints amazing bicycles.

In love with sleep...or am I?

2011-09-15T20:23:00.001-07:00

We had to let owen cry himself to sleep last night. For the past two weeks, I've been up with him every hour and a half. I was starting to lose all sanity. Owen was getting fussy. Cody was cranky. He cried for 55 minutes last night. Then slept like a log. Tonight, he cried for 11 minutes and is sleeping soundly.
I was able to cook, eat dinner, and talk to Cody. But, now that I don't have hours in a dark room with a sleeping baby on me, my Friday Night Lights watching time is gone. I really miss it. That, and the sleeping baby in my arms.
So, yes sleep is wonderful and restorative. But, I kind of want to go hold Owen, curl up in our chair, rub his soft cottony head, and watch an episode of FNL.

Crazy little thing called love.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

2011-09-15T19:50:00.001-07:00

Owen is four months old. He is beginning to almooooost sitting up, leaning forward still.

Today he reached up and grabbed his big toe. I've been waiting on this for a few weeks. It surprised me. It means he is a real baby, not an infant anymore.

How cute is this picture? I mean really....he takes falling in love to a whole new level.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:4 months

4 months old

2011-09-11T14:40:00.000-07:00

Owen was four months old this past Friday. Him and his daddy spent a few minutes laying in bed laughing.

for blue onesies and bandaids

2011-08-31T19:33:00.001-07:00

Owen went in for his four month check up yesterday. It was fun at first, but not for long. The fun part was the measurements! He loved being stretched out, weighed, and talked to by the nurses. Here are his new stats:

Height 27.5 (97 percentile)
Weight 17 lb 3 oz (92 percentile)
Head 16.5 (45 percentile)

He loved showing off for the doctor. He stood, he stared, he smiled. At 4 months that kinda stuff earns you health points. During the exam, the doctor had to clean out his ears. The wax was so sticky it took forever. It was a long process and Owen got really angry. The bad news hadn't even started yet! But, he was late for a nap and irritated. He cried the rest of the exam and while we waited for the nurse. Finally, the nurse came in and Cody held him down (I did it last time and that made my heart break even worse). The shots happened. Cody swooped him up and took him outside. He calmed down and I nursed him to sleep. We spent the night cuddling and loving on each other.

The day ended with a surprise package in the mail for Owen. His Aunt Maggie sent him a blue onesie, because she knows it's his color, and a rockin' shirt. He wore the onesie with his very cute little bandaids.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:Lischey Ave,Nashville,United States

for tummy time

2011-08-26T17:32:00.000-07:00

Three weeks ago I became a full time teacher again. It has been a transition, and, at times, just as hard as I expected it would be. It is made 1000% easier that Cody is able to work from home and take care of Owen. They are a great team. Cody is an amazing daddy. I can't get over that I am so lucky with the both of them.

Owen is growing and getting cuter by the minute! I just fall in love more and more. I don't know how it's possible for so much love to fit inside one person. My mom was right...you just don't know until you experience it!

He is loving tummy time and holding his head up like a pro! Try watching this video and not falling so in love it's hard not to get in your car and come to our house to hold this little boy. Don't say I didn't warn you.

Marmie...are you in the car yet?

3 months

2011-08-20T13:40:00.001-07:00

Happy 3 months Owen!

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

sandals

2011-08-04T20:34:00.000-07:00

I just ordered some new sandals. These sandals-

They are called Sseko sandals. I can't wait to get them. I hope I fall in love with them, because I really want to! Check them out and read about their coolness here

para Mas Tacos

2011-07-26T20:47:00.001-07:00

This very handsome man is my husband. We celebrated today with a trip to a taco joint that satisfies every Tex Mex craving our Texas hearts desire, but Tennessee can never satisfy. (We did get a Chuy's, but it's 40 minutes away from us). Mas Tacos is a tiny little taco shack that serves up a small selection of tacos, aqua frescas, and elote. Before this little place, we had sworn off all Tennessee Tex Mex. We wouldn't put ourselves through that ever again. (don't get us started). But, I digress.
We had my favorite taco, fried avocado, along with a pulled pork, and a spicy beef. We washed those down with a Mexican coke and a hibiscus flower aqua fresca. And who can forget the corn!
The little restaurant is totally cool, but we ate at home. Owen likes his home. We like Owen. We are at his beck and call.
I hope you fall in love with a taco this week. It's just mean not to.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

for Mr. and Mrs. Spriggs

2011-07-26T10:03:00.000-07:00

July 26, 2003

for my husband of eight years

2011-07-26T09:11:00.000-07:00

Eight years ago, I married Cody Ryan Spriggs. We were young, 21 years old. We had no idea what we were doing. It was the best decision we have ever made. Today we are going to celebrate. Today we will have our son with us. The love is almost too much for us.

Just for kicks, here is our favorite anniversary song. I can't upload it here, but take a listen. It's worth it.

rolly polly Owen

2011-07-25T08:27:00.000-07:00

This week Owen turned 10 weeks old. He an amazing 10 week old, too. During "tummy time" he rolled from his tummy to his back. Is he growing up too fast? Will I ever stop asking that question?

a picnic with Marmie

2011-07-22T19:48:00.000-07:00

We ended the day with Las Paletes with our friends Mary and Luke and their daughter Magnolia. The kids parked themselves in the shade and slept.

a trip around our neighborhood

2011-07-22T19:31:00.000-07:00

Today we took a walk around our neighborhood. It was warm, but not bloody hot like it has been. We walked down our street that just happens to intersect with Grace Street. Pretty perfect, huh? We picked up some tomatoes and a few "so sweet you can bit into it right now" ears of corn at our very small, local fruit and vegetable stand. It's this little bitty stand in a wooden shack run by a woman that blasts gospel music all day long. She thanks you for blessing her, and in the same breath yells at you if you cut across her parking lot. She doesn't yell at me. She gives me free peaches. We ended up a little sweaty and Owen ended up very sleepy. Here are some pictures from the walk.

a summer night

2011-07-21T20:20:00.001-07:00

It has been hot here. Really hot. Texas hot. But, tonight it was a little cloudy, a little windy, and a totally perfect summer night. We got out there and sipped sparkling wine and beer and hugged Owen under the shade of two big trees. We grilled burgers. Topped them with fresh tomatoes. Don't you just love summer nights like this?

Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:In love with a summer night

my 9 week old Owen

2011-07-18T18:45:00.001-07:00

This one's for you Aunt Maggie. Love you to the moon and back.

in love with a day in our wine country

2011-07-08T16:51:00.000-07:00

Right outside Nashville, we have a vineyard, Arrington Vineyard. This past Sunday we went with some friends and babies. We sat on top of the highest hill, under a big tree, in a blanket of heat.

My friend in red, Rebecca, wrote a blog about the day, too. She posts all things beautiful, words and pictures, so check it out here.

for a day in the life of Owen...4th of July

2011-07-08T16:38:00.000-07:00

wake up from your morning nap

smile and giggle when you see your daddy

get dressed in your 4th of July outfit

get all hot, sweaty, and pink at the Hot Chicken festival

hang with mommy in the shade

nap in the green grass

watch fireworks with daddy

in love with sleepy moments

2011-07-08T09:59:00.000-07:00

No matter how short or few these moments come, it's just lovely having a sleepy baby so close

in love with this little one

2011-07-04T18:40:00.000-07:00

Late one night, a little boy named Owen was very cute. Take a few minutes and fall in love with me.

In love with 3 minutes

2011-07-04T16:20:00.001-07:00

It is quite in the house. My Gilmore Girl episode is over and I haven't started another one. The air conditioner hums soft and cool. Owen is laying at my feet on the couch and gets a little restless. I put down my iPad and the blog I am reading. I pull the Boppy around my waist and lay Owen on top of it to look at me. He stops whimpering and looks into my eyes. This is my favorite part. Owen has learned to smile. And he does. At me. A huge grin spreads across his face. I smile back and talk. He smiles even bigger and throws his head to the side with a deep almost-giggle. We spend the next three minutes right in each other's faces. He coos, I coo back. He furrows his brow when I move my mouth around and he smirks and rolls his eyes to the side. Our faces almost touch. Those big blue eyes seriously twinkle as his big fat lips twitch side to side and up and down with oos and aahs. My heart literally feels something new while we play this little game. Then, he frowns for real. He's hungry and this sweet stuff better stop. Let's get down to business.

P.S. Cody asked me if I was able to record these three minutes. No, I wasn't. I wish we had a live in videographer. But I'm pretty sure even if we did, none of it would have been truly captured.
P.S.S. This picture was from last week. I picked it because (1) what's a blog post without a picture and (2) I hope this is what Owen was thinking.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

..in love with all 13 pounds 12 ounces of Owen

2011-07-01T09:17:00.000-07:00

My seven week old is bigger than your seven week old. Maybe even your four month old.

Owen is celebrating 7 weeks today. He weighs in at 24 inches long (90%), 13 pounds 12 ounces (97%), and 15.5 head circumference (50%). The doctor is always impressed with his weight gain.

He is smiling now. He is finally growing some hair on the top of his head. It's officially a mullet. His two month shots are out of the way. Although it was a tough appointment, it meant lots of cuddling and sleeping together once we got hom. Two days later though, he is a little fussy. But, this morning he spent 5 minutes smiling, kicking, and cooing on his changing table. This has become his "happy" place. He is wearing 3 month clothes, and growing out of them quickly.

I'm falling in love with every single growing inch and ounce of him!

with Owen's room

2011-06-29T22:31:00.000-07:00

This is Owen's room. We did it simple, white, with love. That yellow and blue blanket came from Cody's mom. Knit years before we even considered having a child. That big monkey face pillow came from my little sister Maggie. Mailed to us right after she heard I was pregnant. That weird pink egg shaped doll came from my room as a child. It looks like me as a baby. Big, round, and fat. That bunting flag came from me. Glued and assembled during my nesting phase. That quilt in the corner came from my great grandmother. My little sister wants to fight me for it. That small glimpse of a coffee cup comes from the best daddy in the world. Cody snuggling with Owen while I took pictures.

Shelves full of my favorite books, Mickey and Minnie, and a fat, round baby.

A little place for Owen to see the people who love him the most.

Sweet dreams...

in love with smiles and sneezes

2011-06-24T07:59:00.000-07:00

Here's what I woke up to today. The beginnings of a smile and a sneeze.

in love with my 3 week old son

2011-06-03T17:43:00.000-07:00

Guess who is 3 weeks old? Owen!

We went to his 3 week check up yesterday and the doctor is impressed with his growth. Well...it's pretty impressive if I do say so myself. He was 9 lb 6 oz at his one week appointment. Now, he is 11 lb. 1 oz. He was 22 inches at one week and now we is 23.25 inches. The doctor said he is gaining 2 ounces a day, ignoring the one ounce a day of an average infant. He told us he will most likely get very rolly, which I know a little about! When Cody heard that, he said, "exactly what I asked for".

Owen is doing great. He is obviously eating well. Believe it or not, he loves his crib! I'm surprised, because most new moms say their baby doesnt even see their nursery for 6 months. Owen is in it all night and is taking his first nap there today. He only cries when he gets hungry and occasionally when his diaper is being changed.

And so far, bath time is awesome! He took the liberty of pooping in the tub yesterday.

waiting for daddy to clean the tub and start over

hanging out in his duck bath towel

Our favorite thing he does is this machine gun grunt. We will try to catch that on video. But, what I did catch was a few shots of Owen with his mommy and daddy.

I'm devoting hours of my day to snuggle with a baby laying on my chest.

Cody has mastered the football hold.

Owen has some competition for Cody's love.

And as if things couldn't get any better.....

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:In love with my 3 week old son

...in love with these pictures

2011-05-21T11:21:00.000-07:00

These are pictures from the last week.

Owen curling up after breakfast one early morning. I can't stop starring at this one.

I don't know the rule about putting babies down after they eat. But, I can't bring myself to pick him up and put him down when he is this cute.

Aunt Kim got his this sweat suit and Marmie got him the giraffe Wabanub. He looks pretty comfy in Marmie's arms waiting for the doctor.

...in love with our Marmie

2011-05-21T01:59:00.000-07:00

Marmie is my mama. Marmie is Owen's grandmother. Everyone should have a Marmie.

A Marmie that will hold you tight and soothe your crying while your mama watches and learns.

A Marmie that will let you suck her pinkie so your mama can take a nap or go to the bathroom.

A Marmie that will tuck you safely in bed, kiss your head, and most likely pick you right back up, so she can snuggle with you some more.

A Marmie that will welcome you into the world with as much love as she welcomed her own baby 29 years ago.

Yes, everyone needs a Marmie. And Owen gets the very best one.

In love with hiccups

2011-05-17T19:41:00.001-07:00

Remember those hiccups I blogged about during my pregnancy? Well, Owen still has them outside of the womb. And they are awesome!

YouTube Video

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:Lischey Ave,Nashville,United States

in love with Owen

2011-05-16T18:57:00.000-07:00

One week ago Owen Charles Spriggs was born! In the words of his father, "This boat is real!"

Owen was born at 10:32 and weighed a surprising 9 pounds and 6 ounces.

Cody and I are falling in love with him every single second.

In love with a precious memory

2011-05-15T18:16:00.001-07:00

One week ago today, my water broke and we started down the longer than expected journey of having our baby boy.

It was Mother's Day and I called my momma to say hello. I hadn't slept well that night so I was tired and emotional. I missed my mom. I even told her that I wished I would go into labor so I could see her.

Cody and I went to church and then over to our friends' house for lunch. We hurried home because we were hosting Sunday Funday at our place. Around 3:00, about 10 of our friends came over for beer and baseball. We were all hanging out in our living room laughing and talking loudly. Our friend Tish announced that they wanted to make a blessing necklace since I had a week to go. This is where everyone gets a bead, prays a blessing for me and the baby, and then makes a necklace for me to wear right away that I could wear to the hospital. Everyone was choosing their beads when I stood up and shouted, "I think my water broke! Ok, my water just broke!". Everyone started screaming and yelling.

Cody and I went upstairs to get our bag ready and call our midwife and doula. Meanwhile, our dear friends stayed and prayed for us. When I came down, Ashley gave me the necklace.

We said goodbye to everyone and got ready for the trip. But not before Cody could get in a few pictures of his own.

It was a fun, exciting way to go into labor. Surrounded by our closest friends blessing us in prayer until the last one closed the door. Such a sweet memory for both of us to have.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

...in love with 38 weeks

2011-05-07T21:07:00.000-07:00

Yesterday officially marked the end of my 38th week of pregnancy. I now have one week left. Well..hopefully! Everyone keeps saying new mothers are typically late. I hope Sprigglet doesn't leave us waiting!

I'm still working and teaching 4th grade. I had been able to go about my days normally, bending down to help kids, teaching from the floor, packing boxes of books....until this week! Now, I just hover over 5 feet higher than the kids and bark orders at them. It's proving difficult and not nearly as fun for anyone in my room. I've been exhausted after a full day, and decided to put myself on couch rest. So, when I'm home, I'm on the couch. I will go ahead and say, I realize how spoiled I am, but I will enjoy this tiny window while it lasts.

Sprigglet is growing, as you can see from the pictures! It must be really cozy in there. Sprigglet gets the hiccups still a few times a day. Since I'm carrying around a full size newborn, they are huge hiccups now! Whenever I sit down, I prop a pillow up against one side so my belly has somewhere to land. The movements have slowed a bit, but Sprigglet squirms around and I can feel it in my ribs, my hip bones, and especially my bladder.

We went to our 38 week appointment and everything was the same as two weeks ago. I had no idea these internal exams mean nothing. I got myself too excited. I'm praying for patience as this last week comes around.

As this chapter in my life is coming to an end, I have moments of extreme excitement and anticipation. But, I also feel sad sometimes. This is a life I have known and lived for 29 years. I feel weary of letting go of it. Cody and I decide on a whim when to go out. We rush out of the door to get somewhere on time. I wake up late and enjoy reading in complete silence. We hang out with friends almost every other night. All of these changes are about to take place. Don't get me wrong, I'm so excited to have this baby and experience being parents with Cody. But, in all of my pregnancy, I haven't been nervous except for now. It is all dawning on me that life as I know it might change drastically. But, the love that people keep saying I will experience in just a matter of days, or weeks, has me super excited to experience these changes at the same time. So, my emotions are all over the place...surprise surprise! However, I am falling in love with the idea of someday soon saying "It's time!"

in love with baby books

2011-04-30T09:15:00.000-07:00

When my sisters and are were born, my mom had a baby book for each of us. I love looking at mine whenever I am home. I will get pictures up one day, because the cover is priceless. It is titled "Welcome to Mother Earth". If you knew my parents back in the day, that makes total sense! I love that the book is like a little snapshot of that time in their lives that I got to be a part of.

My favorite part is the handwritten reflections by both my mom and dad. They both wrote about preparing for my arrival and the birth experience and seeing me for the first time. So, I want to provide the same memories for my child. So, I set out looking for the perfect baby book. The hard part is I'm very sentimental and the "perfect" baby book is mine (which was published in the 80s and cost about $15.) I'm mostly picky about the pages inside being applicable and not cheesy. And since I couldn't find Welcome to Mother Earth (which I totally googled trying to find), finding a modern, gender neutral cover is important to me, too.

As I have looked around, I have found some pretty amazing products that I thought I'd share.

**Side note: Have you noticed my blog count going up? With two weeks to go and the baby dropped so low it is a chore to just get up and down, I've put myself of couch rest whenever I am home. Thus, giving me lots of time to blog.**

This one is over $100, but it fantastic and amazing. I can't get any pictures of it, so a link will have to do.
http://kistnersupply.com/book/index.htm

Binth, a publishing company from Chicago, makes this one

and they also have amazing illustrated posters like this

RagandBone Baby Boutique makes this one

RubyLove on etsy.com makes a ton. Most are gender specific, which I can not take part in, but a few solid prints do exist for weird parents like us.

MeandRiz makes these accordion style baby books and childhood memory books. And because Rebekka Seale has made me completely obsessed with bicycle art I had to look at this one

Well...that is about it. I've fallen in love with several and am awaiting financial approval from my husband.

-Grace

grace is falling...in love with being 36 weeks pregnant!

2011-04-28T09:58:00.000-07:00

Baby Daddy here. Baby, not here. Yet. We're so close, we can feel it! Well, Grace can at least. But as for me, I'm checking off my mental checklist of things to do, prepare, fix, build before Sprigglet arrives.

Since our midwife told us a few weeks ago, that she "wouldn't be surprised at all if you called and said you were on your way to the hospital to deliver!" I immediately realized that indeed, this boat is freakin real. I then spent the next few days packing a hospital bag, that now sits in the "co-sleeper" as they call it, at the foot of our bed. Grace has pointed out that when Sprigglet does arrive, what are we to do without all of the storage space that the co-sleeper provides us now that a baby occupies it?!? Just like a baby to need things...This hospital bag is such a bizarre array of items, ranging from lip balm to a rolling pin....yes, a rolling pin. Hey, at least I have prepared for everything. Even making dough if the occasion calls for it. (or a steamroller-like massage)

Aside from these normal preparations, I've really spent this week being in awe of my wife. Adjectives can't describe the depths of gratitude and love that I feel for her. Watching her go through this process has given me a new respect for her as a person, not for a previous lack thereof, but in seeing her just own this pregnancy with absolutely no fear. She's a freaking lioness. I want to be like her when I grow up. Grace has this strength about her now that is unwavering and truly admirable. I've always been a fan of hers before, but watching her during pregnancy has taken it to another level. (TEAM GRACE!)

And now for a pictorial form of this lovely lady:

As previously described

In love with DIY

2011-04-27T15:56:00.001-07:00

This spring break I went home, Texarkana, TX, to spend the week with my mom. While I was there, we did a couple of DIY projects for my house and the babies room. We got the idea to place scrapbooking paper inside simple frames. This took little to no time and about .50 a sheet of paper.

A few weeks ago, when I was back home, I broke a large framed mirror right in half. But, instead of throwing it all away, I took out the mirror and spray painted the frame yellow.

We decided to hang them on a living room wall that didn't really have a purpose. Then, we decided to put the baby bassinet against that wall.

It's simple.
I love it.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

In love with Easter

2011-04-21T20:19:00.001-07:00

This morning I woke up in pain. One of my teeth felt like it was going to fall out. I knew it was bad and it needed help. I was overwhelmed with the pain, not being able to eat breakfast, the thought of working all day, the prospect of being in pain until I found a doctor to work on me, and wanting to be pain free when I go into labor. I had a good cry at the table in front of Cody. I spent 10 minutes feeling completely lost and out of control. I even used the words "why me". (I become very dramatic when 9 months pregnant and in pain.). Cody remained calm, found a doctor, and drove me there immediately. Two hours later, Cody and I left after having an emergency root canal.

Tonight I went to a Maundy Thursday service. It's the day during Holy Week we remember the last supper and the night before Jesus was crucified. It's a very beautiful service that had me laughing, smiling, sighing, and crying. Tonight, we washed each others feet. I saw an old man who could barely walk, kneel and wash a blind stranger's feet. I saw a little boy wash his sister's feet and heard them both giggle as they splashed the cold water. We took communion on the night we remember the first Lord's Supper. We sat in silence as the altar was stripped bare and we remembered how Jesus was betrayed and abandoned.

From morning to night, my perspective and attitude has changed. Lent always does this for me. But this year, I have been so consumed with my own body I haven't paid much attention to Lent or this Holy Week. But, I'm thankful for this one day to force me to hear an answer to my question "why me?". An answer that comes from one who fell in love with me long before I was falling myself.

Peace is my gift to you.
My own peace I now leave with you;
Peace which the world cannot give, I give to you.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Grace is falling...in love with 35 weeks!

2011-04-17T20:10:00.001-07:00

Now, it's official! Five weeks left! Pretty mind blowing!

I look like I have five weeks left, too. Or...most people would say I look like I should be giving birth immediately. I actually shock people with my belly. A couple in the grocery store stopped and gawked at me for several minutes. Little kindergarteners look up in amazement. The belly is big....and will only be getting bigger.

We went in for our 35 weeks appointment. It was a very exciting appointment. Linda, one of the midwives, saw us this week. She is one our our favorites! Her specialty is getting the baby to move by pressing and pushing all over my belly. She the only person that can press that hard and get a clear foot, butt, or hip to actually appear! It is so much fun. And she is the midwife that lets Cody find the heartbeat every time. There are just so many perks to being with a midwife instead of an OB. We feel very involved in this process, because they let us! I'm also lucky to have a husband that thinks this is a miracle and will take advantage of any moment he can jump in!

Speaking of "being involved"....

I had two Braxton Hicks contractions within a minute while they pressed and played on my belly. So, Linda decided to check to see if my cervix was making progress. Her eyes got really big and she told us she felt the head instead! Before we could say anything, her next sentence was, "Cody, put on a glove and get down here! You have to feel this!". Cody had a glove on faster than I could count. I'll skip the rest of the appointment here on the blog...that will be in the baby book!

So, apparently, the baby has dropped down and my body is preparing for birth. Linda said she doesn't think I'll make it 40 weeks and if I stay calm and prepare correctly, should have a great birth. I'm excited that the possibility of being late is small and that my body is preparing just the way it is meant to.

We go to every week appointments now. The nursery is 98% done..pictures coming soon. We got real, new living room furniture! Decorating and organizing is coming to a close. We have two baby showers this week. We are taking advantage of whatever time we have left and going on dates when we can fit them in. We are falling...

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

In love with 34 weeks pregnant

2011-04-11T20:05:00.001-07:00

This week we are in the home stretch! We can count on one hand about how many weeks until we have a baby. We are keeping an open mind and trying to think of May as more of a birth month, just in case I go past my due date. (advice from a friend of Cody's)

I turned 29 years old! I'm still feeling great! Except for my insomnia that comes and goes. But, still no swelling or puffiness anywhere. Teaching all day is hard. I am short of breath and can't talk, which might be a good thing for my students. Thankfully, we are in test prep mode so I sit most of the day and teach small groups. That's been an actual blessing. Sprigglet has been consistent in getting the hiccups around 3-5 times a day. It shakes my whole belly and is somewhat annoying when it happens when I'm trying to sleep, sit, or hold a conversation.

I'm guessing my nesting has kicked in because I can obsess about organizing like crazy. Cody is on his last tour week, so when he gets home I have a lot for him to do. Did I tell you I visited the tour? I did. I met some of the people Cody has been with for three months. Surprisingly, most of the people I met were guys and all had natural birth experiences. They were all so encouraging, uplifting, and offered me some great advice from the dad's perspective. How lucky are we? Cody left for three months, but was surrounded by men that supported their wives and children and love to talk about it.

Back to nesting....My dad got us a very nice car seat and stroller. I got the idea to clean out my car and then thought, why not put the car seat where it belongs? 40 minutes later, a lot of sweating, grunting, and cursing I surrendered to the belly. I threw a seat belt around it and gave up. It will be another Cody Project!

I'm embarrassed my blog has become just a pregnancy blog. I keep promising myself to blog about thing I'm falling in love with, and I am....in my mind. I know there are some dear loved ones that love following along side us on this journey, so at least I'm keeping up that end of this blog. But look for some future posts on tea mugs, wine, cookware, our town home, and a cute boy I know and love. Until then, I'm content falling in love with this growing, little, hiccuping baby.

grace is falling....in love with being 33 weeks pregnant

2011-03-30T16:59:00.000-07:00

Cody here.....my wife is only 7 weeks away from having our child....we are only 2 weeks away from counting down the weeks on ONE HAND! Thankfully, after this week, I'm home from tour for good and I get to catch up on all things baby room. We moved into our new place the week that tour started, and coming home for 48 hours each week has left me plenty to catch up on, so I'm ready to knock it out next week.

My favorite thing to do this week has been watching a hiccup session. We're literally watching the hiccups take place! This sweet child of mine is shaking Grace's entire torso with it's hiccups! I expect to see a two year old whenever this thing is born, with all the commotion that's taking place in there.

This week, Grace pointed out to me the position as we felt what to us is the baby's butt, and I'm still so shocked at how real this boat is! I guess it's mostly because I've never been around a pregnant woman that I'm close to, this close to the end. I've always just watched in awe from afar, but never this close up. But this one's mine, and I'm loving every minute of it.

To think, this squirmy little worm is going to be my little baby, with little baby hands and baby feet...I can't wait to see my Sprigglet.

Grace is falling....in love with being 31 weeks pregnant

2011-03-19T00:08:00.001-07:00

I didn't have any appointments or cute stories from Cody to include this week. Several people have said they have cried at some of our blogs, or gagged if your my little sister. So this week, it'll be different. I'll put Cody back on blog duty next week.

I'm officially in the single digits of weeks left in this pregnancy. 8 weeks! In some ways, it seems so close. In more, it seems like my belly is growing but I don't really know what I'm counting down to. My mom says I'm in denial! Haha! I'm intelligent enough to know I'm having a baby in eight weeks, but the magnitude of the situation is just not settling in. But, how could it? It's like all other huge life changes I've experienced (marriage, moving, cancer, teaching, moving again). I've never really know what's on the other side until I was there and experienced it. Since my mom has had three children(all born at least a month early) she probably wants to wring my neck for not having a single thing in Sprigglet's rooms setup and leaving all the decorating of our new apartment to the last minute. Well, first of all she loves me too much to do that! So, she is letting me off the hook with a lot of little reminders and gentle nudges and hints. She's also very pleased that my nesting, or something strange, kicked in and I got four DIY projects done this week to take back home. I'm counting on April bringing showers of time and productivity....and not a baby! I'm patient and can wait until May.

I'm still feeling pretty great! However, not as "normal" as I had been. Sprigglet is growing and filling up my belly. The movements are fantastic, except at 1:00 am when I'm trying to sleep. Getting up and down or bending have become difficult and leave me breathless. I want to sit and put my feet up a lot. I take breaks to "rest" up for my next activity, which might include walking across the house. Can you believe I actually thought I would never feel this way! Like I would be above all this typical end-of-pregnancy stuff. Hahaha! I'm an idiot. I've even been caught snoring (I woke myself up at one point).

It's 2 am and I can't sleep. Even with all this stuff making me feel less "Grace" than usual, it's an amazing process I feel so honored to be experiencing. So, here's to learning to fall completely in love when you never thought you'd feel like it was possible,

Grace is falling...in love with my first baby shower

2011-03-17T20:20:00.001-07:00

This weekend my mom and little sister Maggie hosted my very first baby shower in my hometown of Texarkana. I came down to spend my spring break week with my mom and let them see my growing belly.

My mom decorated her house in what I must say was the coolest and cutest shower decor ever! The welcome sign says "Sprigglet Shower" and is made out of newborn diapers and stencils. Cute! I assure her someone will, and should, steal this idea!

When I walked in, I screamed because I saw my giraffe! Sprigglet's nursery is being completely knocked off from a blog (aubreyandlindsey.blogspot.com) I found. Theirs has a giraffe and Cody and I have been determined to have one in ours, too. Mom surprised us with this one that we have nicknamed GiGi.

We had to do one silly picture to round it all out.

My beautiful mom and sister. They were both so sick and neither had a voice that day. But, they both stuck it out and still looked great, right?!

If you know my family, we are obsessed with each other. So, the guest list primarily consisted of the Remer (my maiden name) clan. Which was so much fun. We got to retell memories for the 1,000th time, color, and laugh. To make the day even better...my big sister Carly came in from Dallas! We looked at our baby books and at family photo albums. Such an amazing day.

Sprigglet got some great gifts. It was a very strange experience to be the one pregnant and being showered with gifts for the baby that's arriving soon! After I was done, I remember thinking Wow, this is really happening! Kind of like when I told Cody that we were given a car seat! Go ahead make fun of us...and yes, we know we are having a baby.

Thank you to the best family ever for an amazing shower weekend. I'm falling in love with bringing my baby into this fun and loving circle!

Grace is falling...in love with being 29 weeks pregnant

2011-03-05T09:36:00.000-08:00

*Though you must be asking yourself, "How can Grace be 29 weeks after only 3 or 4 days after she was 28 weeks," we had fallen slightly behind her real time progress, so we had some catching up to do, and we're back...*

My wife is pregnant. We’re going to have a baby. This is really happening!!!

These were my thoughts as I sat next to my beautiful wife and tried to take in all that had unfolded in front of me. I had just had my hand on her belly, pressing in and feeling either a butt or head-lump, and then it happened. What felt to me like a snake moving under a bed sheet, was my baby squirming around inside my wife’s belly! And I felt it all! THAT, made me realize how quickly this is all coming! We both took the next few moments to realize that before we know it, our little Sprigglet will be out in this world for all to see. That said, we are savoring each and every day throughout this journey. How amazing it is to see God growing a child inside of my wife. From the first little baby pooch, to the now glorious belly that sits between Grace and I as we hug. What a beautiful journey....

Grace is falling....in love with being 28 weeks pregnant

2011-03-03T08:35:00.000-08:00

Happy 28 weeks to us! I can't believe how big I am. When I am just sitting on the couch or busy at work, I don't feel any different than before I was pregnant. But, when I see pictures of myself or when I'm getting dressed I have the full realization that I am huge! It's been fun seeing my body transform, and now it's just comical how different I look to myself.

This week was a busy one. It is the first week I feel that Sprigglet is filling up my belly, instead of just being a small little bean inside. During a meeting at school my entire belly shifted and moved enough for me to gasp and for others to see it happening! The teachers on my team are so sweet and rejoiced in this little miracle with me, while laughing at how weird it is at the same time.

Monday, Cody and I scheduled doula meetings back to back. Since he is gone Wed night-Sunday, we needed to get this checked off our to-do list ASAP. We started at 4:30 and by 9:30, our eyes were glazed over. No one should have to talk about birth, classes, positions, breastfeeding, and hospitals that many times with complete strangers. It was exhausting. But, we came out of it deciding on one great doula that will also be our private birthing class instructor. For those that don't know about doulas, a doula will be our birthing partner/coach. She has given birth and attended about 15, so she knows the ins and outs of it all. She will be supporting Cody in supporting me to the best of his ability. Since we want to give birth with no interventions, yes that means natural and med-free, she will be able to guide us down that path with helpful positions and techniques.

Wednesday was the big 28 week checkup with the....*dramatic pause* dun-dun-dun! GLUCOSE TEST! I made it to the office before Cody, so I drank the big jug of orange drink and discovered I actually found it quite tasty! When I went to weigh in, for the first time in my life we had to go to the 150 big metal chunk! GASP. Don't worry, I'm not freaked out at all. My weight gain is so minimal and it is all for a good cause anyway! Cody finally made it from work and met me in the exam room. Immediately, our midwife Linda handed him the doppler monitor and said, "Now, let's hear the heartbeat. But, you can find it." She showed us where Sprigglet was positioned, head down and butt up. Cody went searching around for the heartbeat and kept finding either mine or the cord. Eventually, he found it....very strong and loud! It was so cool to see him doing that. Linda even said he could help "catch" Sprigglet if it worked out that way. This all started helping me to look forward to giving birth. Having Cody be such a big part of it takes away any fear I may have, which is very little to begin with anyway. After that, we sat around for an hour and then they drew blood. Seriously, it was not bad at all! I realize that people out there have reactions and even have to do longer tests, but the rumor about it being hellish and torture for everyone should really be put to rest. Half of the horror stories you hear about pregnancy aren't even true! I hope our society is getting away from scaring women about what really is such a positive and beautiful time. Ok..off my soap box!

Thursday, the diabetes test came back negative, but my blood test came back positive for a small amount of anemia. So, I've been loading up on red meat and leafy green veggies ever since. I haven't felt unusually bad, tired, or sluggish so I'm thinking I can fix this little problem with my diet.

Well, this was extremely long. Here's to 28 weeks and less than 12 to go!

*Cody* This is when I know the photo-shoot is over :)

Grace is falling in love....with doulas, guitars, and rain

2011-02-21T20:06:00.000-08:00

Right now, Cody is playing Somewhere Over the Rainbow for Sprigglet and me on his guitar. How sweet is that? I'm glad I married someone that can play the guitar. Sprigglet was jumping in anticipation as Cody strummed around practicing. Now, Sprigglet is calm and relaxed as we listen.

Today we interviewed 4 doulas. Since Cody is only home two nights a week, we stacked all the meetings in one day. By 9 p.m. our eyes were glazed over and our heads were spinning with all this new "birth" knowledge. But, the good news is we decided on one! That is one thing off my checklist of things to do before this baby arrives.

It's raining outside and my husband is playing the guitar for me in bed. I am wrapped in love, peace, and warmth.

It's nights like this where I remember to fall in love with the simple things and take myself to a place where trouble melts like lemon drops.

Goodnight.

A test from my iPad

2011-02-10T10:29:00.001-08:00

I downloaded a new app to try to blog from my iPad. I'm testing adding photos. This one brings back good memories from this summer vacation to the beach. I miss my girls!

grace is falling....in love with being 25 weeks pregnant

2011-02-07T19:46:00.000-08:00

Cody here to give you a little insight again, this time for our 25th week of pregnancy. Grace is glowing brighter and brighter each week, which is why I chose this picture to show off first.

According to the email update of the week, our baby is now the size of a Hothouse Cucumber......riiiiiight. We also learned that our baby's sense of hearing is stronger than ever now. Grace told me that there have been studies of unborn babies' brain growth being affected by certain types of music, most notably composers such as Mozart. To which I respond, "Have you heard how funky Stevie Wonder is?!?!" Baby Spriggs will most definitely be exposed to a wide range of music. From Grace's Celine Dion crush, to my lifelong belief that I'm a Latino/African American trapped inside a white-boy's body. I think we're going to stimulate PLENTY of brain activity!

Some of you might not know, but I've turned Grace into a huge (no pun intended) Green Bay Packer fan. We had a Super Bowl Party last night and here is what 25 weeks with-child looks like in some awesome Packer apparel...complete with the authentic Cheesehead. (Thanks Melissa and Tim!)

The night was so much fun, as many of our friends who couldn't care less about sports, came to eat, drink, and be merry with us. Oh and we WON!!! I made the proclamation that if Green Bay won, we would name our first-born after the MVP (Most Valuable Player) of the Super Bowl. Since the game went down to the wire, there were a few possibilities floating around, but it came out to be Aaron Rodgers as the game's MVP. This, I pointed out, could be easily changed to Erin if our little one is a girl. I doubt this will truly be the deciding factor, but at least it was fun, and what a game it was!

GO PACK GO!

And now for a few more lovely pics...

Here's to another week full of laughter, laughter at how Grace's belly button pokes out when she laughs, which brings on even more laughter....we're excited about you little boy or little girl and can't wait to see you!

grace is falling...in love with being 24 weeks pregnant..

2011-01-28T14:52:00.000-08:00

Well actually, it's Cody falling in love with Grace being 24 weeks pregnant. This week I decided that it's time for me to chime in with my thoughts of my beautiful babies during this new chapter of our lives. This was probably the first week that I got home from life on the road and said, "You're getting so big!" In only the sweetest and cutest way of course. I hugged her for the first time and literally felt solid-baby-tummy against mine. Grace's recent complaints of tummy pains and stretching make complete sense now. To quote The Lonely Island guys, "THIS BOAT IS REALLL!"

So Grace's requests for foot rubs and back massages are now a frequent request, and I do my darnedest to fulfill them without delay. I really can't imagine what Grace will be going through in the next 3 months, but I really am excited to see and feel the changes as they both progress. Speaking of seeing, I literally saw my baby-child move this week! The frequency of kicks and flips this kid is doing increases with each passing week, and Grace rushes me to come and feel. On one particularly busy session, she called me over, and there in front of my eyes was Grace's belly moving in the tiniest little bumps! Grace has been introducing Little Spriggs to music, so I can't wait to get back home and start getting it used to some Motown and Funk.....maybe start calling it Funky Spriggs....I like that.

Below are some pics for the week.

These three are a succession of some beautiful laughter shots that I got...

And lastly, a good belly shot

Looking forward to week 25. Each week brings me closer to this beautiful creation!

Grace is falling in love with...being 23 weeks pregnant

2011-01-19T16:18:00.000-08:00

So....I guess I'm officially looking pregnant. A stranger just walked up to me in the grocery store and shouted, "You look so cuuuute!" Well, I'm guessing it my pregnant belly...or maybe she liked my hair and scarf.

This week has been so fun! First of all, I got a whole week off work because of snow in Nashville. So, that gave me lots of time to nap, eat, and unpack our new house. Also, we got to go back to our midwife! Which is always exciting. We heard the babies heartbeat and it was steady and strong! They measured my belly and it measured right at 23 inches. She also told us to start looking into birthing classes within the next month. Woah...I mean I just got used to being pregnant and loving it and now I need to start preparing for it to end!

I have gained 12 pounds, so I'm right on track. I should gain a pound a week from here on out. I still can't believe it when I look at my belly and can't suck it in! It's very strange to see your body transform this quickly.

I really didn't think I would take bare belly pictures, but Cody twisted my arm. So, they are at the bottom of the blog (just in case anyone doesn't want to see them).

Well, here's to one more week of being in love!

Grace is falling in love...with being 21 weeks pregnant

2011-01-12T11:52:00.000-08:00

21 weeks pregnant! It blows my mind to think we are officially halfway through!

I've been seeking my mom's advice the whole time, because she is amazing and brilliant. From the beginning, she advised me to enjoy every moment and not stress or worry about every little thing. In part, that is why we are taking a more natural pregnancy and birthing plan with our midwives. As a chronic worrier, I've embraced that all I can do is carry this baby for just a few more months and enjoy every single moment. Even the smallest things, like moving into maternity jeans, having someone ask if I'm pregnant, people feeling my stomach, gaining weight, or my belly button growing increasingly flat. I know this chapter of my life lasts only a short time, and soon this baby will be out in the world and belong to so many others.

Here are some small things that I am relishing in this week. Kim, my sister-in-law, gave me plenty of maternity jeans. What a life saver! I'm starting to think everyone should wear them...all the time! I also have intense cravings for the strangest food. I mean intense like I can taste and smell the food! Over Christmas break, it was Long John Silver's fried fish. I haven't had that in years, but it was like I had had it just yesterday. I never went and ate any, mostly because we didn't have access to a car at my in-law's house. My constant cravings that I do give in to are french fries, iced tea, grapes, cheese, and yogurt. But, the coolest thing is that the baby's kicks have gotten increasingly stronger, and this week Cody felt one for the first time. That was pretty amazing.

Here is to another week of falling....

Grace is Falling...in love with being 20 weeks pregnant

2011-01-12T11:10:00.000-08:00

Pregnancy is really growing on me. I love it! At 20 weeks, we went and had our first sonogram. It was as amazing as we hoped it would be. When the tech put the instrument on my belly Cody yelled, "That's a baby!" We had both expected to not really be able to make sense of the sonogram and only see a jumble of non-discript blurry images. But, instead we could see everything clearly! The tech was amazing and so nice! She played around and pointed everything out to us (except the gender!). I cried the whole time and Cody cried/talked the whole time. He said he just couldn't stop. But, because of all of his questions, we found out a lot and got "extra" attention. Instead of a 15 minute appointment, we played around for 45 minutes. Instead of 3 pictures to take home, we took home 13 pictures and a DVD. Instead of a solid 2D sonogram, she included 3D images. Again...it was amazing!

This week I started feeling the baby kick just tiny little bumps. Everyone always describes the kicks as "butterfly flutters". I couldn't disagree more! Besides I don't even know what a butterfly flutter in my stomach would ever feel like. To me, it feels more like right before you get sick, but then you don't. Cody says that is a horrible description, but it is the most honest description I can come up with. But, don't get me wrong, I love feeling them each time. I can't wait until both Cody and I can feel the kicks more often.

Grace is falling in love with....vintage postcards, hello, and french bikes

2010-08-24T20:22:00.000-07:00

It is late on a Tuesday night. I had a fabulous dinner with 15 of my closest friends and then got some quality time with my favorite girls. I should be in bed dreaming of another day with all 25 of my fourth graders. But instead, I'm dreaming of french bicycles, little birdies saying hello, and postcards. Yes, that does sound random. But once you check this out www.etsy.com/shop/Rebekkaseale you will be dreaming of and falling in love with them, too.

Enjoy...and hello!

Grace is falling...in love with my Dixieland Delight

2010-08-13T16:56:00.000-07:00

Tonight Cody told me I'm not allowed to talk about work. So instead we are cooking pizza, dancing to bass lines, drinking wine, and singing to Alabama. We aren't sure what it means to park under a "holler" or if a "Dixieland Delight" refers just to women. But I love this song tonight. It is simple and fun, the opposite of my work life today. The rest of my weekend will be filled with bikes, tomatos, a beer crawl, a birthday party, Zumba, and friends. What will you do this weekend? Whatever it is, I hope yours is easy, simple, and fun.

Now, I'll return to falling in love with my delight...

Grace is falling in love with.....the beginning of school

2010-08-11T20:11:00.000-07:00

I feel really lucky. Most people don't get to experience the simple pleasure of shopping for new school supplies. Remember You've Got Mail and the "bouquet of freshly sharpened pencils"? I love opening a new package of markers, sharpening pencils, and crisp pages of paper.

Tomorrow is the first day of school. I get to meet a new class of students that I am sure I will fall in love with. I love that I get to experience a fresh new start every year.

This time I am falling in love with...a new school year.

Grace is falling...in love with church camp. What? Yes...I said church camp.

2010-07-06T06:40:00.000-07:00

Yes, I did say church camp. And if you know me at all, I didn't grow up going to camps so I never know what to expect. In previous years, my summer "attire" has been considered inappropriate and I've been sent back to my room to change. Apparently, if you have boobs and long legs, everything you wear is slutty. This year, I came prepared with lots of layers! At another camp Cody took me to, I've had to sleep outside on a bunk bed inside a huge tarp and showered outside. I've never understood while people would go willingly.

Back to the THIS camp! Yesterday Cody and I left Nashville and drove east to Black Mountain, NC. We are staying in LifeWay's Ridgecrest camp because Cody is playing bass for a worship team this week. To my surprise, we have a great, cozy hotel room. A wonderful shower. The weather out here is fantastic! And...it is only 20 minutes from Asheville. Plus, I have no responsibilities here!!

Because I heard such *cough* wonderful *cough* things about the camp food, but can't really eat any because of my gluten free lifestyle, I brought a crock pot and a ice chest full of food. Last night, I cooked a Cranberry Roast. I pulled out the can of cranberries and realized I forgot a can opener. Luckily, I'm never far from the wine cork I keep in my purse at all time! So, Cody used the little knife to saw open the can. It was actually really easy and quick...but Cody is awesome so what did I expect. Dinner was awesome and so easy. (check out 365crockpot.com for great ideas!)

I slept fabulous last night and have been laying in bed now for two hours. Drinking coffee. Eating my breakfast. Watching Julie and Julia on Netflix.com. Vacation has begun for me and I am loving it.

But, I will have to drag myself out at some point soon. Today we are heading to Asheville to walk around the town and try out Mela for lunch. Supposedly, it was voted Best Restaurant and Best Indian food in the city. Need I say more! I'm there! Then, we will walk and walk and walk around the beautiful city. We will stop of coffee at a cafe and sit outside. We will find a park and lay in the grass. I will find gfree goodies somewhere!

Maybe I'm not exactly at church camp...participating. But, tagging along sure has paid off!

Grace is falling..in love with welcoming Cody home

2010-06-26T15:24:00.001-07:00

In just a few minutes, literally, Cody will be home. He has been gone for three weeks. I'm excited to say the least. To hold his hand, sit next to him, laugh at his random jokes, live life with him. I'm looking forward to all that and more.

In a few hours we are going to the park to picnic with friends and try to swing dance with a big band. I've spent some time making yummy homemade food, peanut butter cookies, and cleaning up after my single self. Living in 600 sq ft doesn't bother us, but tidiness is the key! Everything is in it's place and our home is ready for two people again.

I wonder if Cody will notice that I slept on his side of the bed every single night he was gone.

It feels like my summer is starting all over again. And it is going to be fun.

I'm falling in love with welcoming Cody back home.

What are you falling for this weekend?

Grace is falling....in love with writing

2010-06-23T19:47:00.000-07:00

This summer I am in the Middle Tennessee Writing Project at MTSU. I was told by past fellows that it would be life-changing. I laughed at them. Now, I bow down to them. It has changed my life. Because this summer, I am a writer. This summer, I am writing. Not blogging. But, writing with a pen and paper. Until my hand hurts. I am writing poems and memories and fiction and narratives and rants. My writer's notebook is not neat. It is filled with scratches, and mark-outs, and x's over several lines, and pages torn out. It is also filled with words and ideas and thoughts from me. The process has been humbling and beautiful at the same time. I have some pieces I am proud of. Maybe when I muster up the courage, I'll share them with you.

Not only am I becoming a writer, but I am also learning to teach writing to my students. And I don't mean pages out of a grammar book. No, I mean real authentic writing.

I have been in one room now for three weeks with 20 other teachers for eight hours a day. Normally, this would sound like hell to me. Instead, I have made good friends and met some very smart teachers who are passionate about teaching like I am. What a relief and how refreshing that has been.

This summer, I have fallen in love with writing. Hopefully, this love lasts for a long time.

Grace is falling...in love with dancing

2010-05-30T15:56:00.001-07:00

We recently bought a fancy ass TV. We upgraded from a 13" TV/VCR combo that we had had for two years. You're right in thinking that I was really sad. Now I need to upgrade all my Disney movies and Shag to Blu Ray asap! But..I digress.

We have this beautiful TV and new blu ray player. Well the Blu Ray player connects to Pandora, the internet music station. While Cody would rather watch action movies that really show off the state-of-the-art-technology of the TV, I can't get enough of blaring the 80's and 90's Dance Party station and dancing my butt off!

Anyone with me?? If you love dancing to these awesome tunes too, I might invite you to a dance party soon. We can fall in love together.

Grace is falling....in love with the mornings.

2010-05-16T07:46:00.000-07:00

This morning I sat down with my writer's notebook and wrote about another of my recent loves.

I cherish the mornings more than any other time of day. I used to be a night owl, staying up until the early morning hours and be very productive. But, ask my husband and he will tell you by 9 p.m. I am ready to curl up and sleep. I guess teaching has forced my internal clock to change. Survival of the fittest. He will also tell you that I set an alarm, even on the weekends. I don't want to waste a precious morning.

I love that the mornings haven't been touched yet. They are fresh and new. They are warm with the roasted smells of fresh coffee. They are still and quiet, except for the birds chirping outside the windows. Sugar and Guinness (our cats) are still drowsy and stretched out on the floor.

I would, and do, wake up hours earlier than I have to just to enjoy the lovely a.m. It is okay to sit and slowly enjoy a cup, or two, or coffee. Read a book, write, or catch up on some news. To-do lists aren't made yet, and if they are, don't worry. You have all day to cross those off.

Weekday mornings are shorter for me, but I wake up earlier than I have to so I can enjoy my favorite part of day. It is essential for my mental health. Because for the rest of the day, I won't be alone or quiet. For 9 more days, I will have 20 little ones clinging to my side. Summer vacation is just around the corner. But don't think I will be loafing around with coffee and books all morning. Starting June 7th, I begin the National Writing Project at MTSU. I will be spending my quiet morning times in the car driving an hour to school.

I'm pouring another cup of coffee with agave and half and half. I am reading a new book that I can't put down. I have fallen...for the morning.

grace is falling....in love with Nashville

2010-05-06T21:07:00.000-07:00

Last weekend it rained over Nashville...a lot. The city flooded like never before. It may end up costing more than any flood in the history of the U.S. Schools have been canceled all week, homes are still under water, people have died, and houses are being torn apart from damage. I've never lived in a city that has been hit by a natural disaster like this.

I feel so lucky to live in this city and to be a part of Church of the Redeemer and the East Side community group. We, along with a large portion of the city, jumped into action. I went into the Bellevue area three days in a row and tore down dry wall, ripped up floors, carried water soaked furniture, and tossed ruined personal belongings into heaps of trash. It was heart breaking and moving at the same time. I wish I had pictures to post that showed what my eyes have seen over the past week. But, when your handling potentially dangerous flood water, you don't really want to reach into your pocket and bring out your iPhone. So, I'll let the more experienced and better photographers handle this one. Please go to www.tennessean.com and look at their slideshows.

Every neighborhood I have stepped into has been packed with cars and people lined up to help. When I heard that the rest of the nation didn't really know about the flood, I didn't get very angry, because I have seen all that really matters. I have seen people giving up their days at work to come help friends, family, and quite often complete strangers. I have seen women and men giving out lunches, passing out Gatorade, offering sunscreen to volunteers. Yes, I hope more people learn about the flood, know the seriousness, and donate time or money to help the recovery efforts. But, we didn't need national news to come together as a city. We did that on our own.

The recovery has just started. I just read that a neighborhood, just today, was cleared safe from flood waters (4 days after the rain!!). So, there is a lot of work to be done. I have had the week off from work, so I've had time to give where I haven't had money. I lived in Texas when Katrina hit and did nothing except watch the news. I felt helpless and small compared to what was happening around me. I hope if you are reading this and feel that way, that you call or text me. My church has done an excellent job of connecting people with needs. I can help you find a neighborhood, or a ride to that neighborhood. My girlfriends, most with children or that are pregnant, held a childcare for flood victims a few hours this week. Others have been praying, conserving water, or collecting donations. If you have been helping in some way...then you are part of the reason that I am falling in love...with Nashville.

Grace is falling....in love with my bed

2010-04-28T21:03:00.000-07:00

Tonight I went to my friend Elizabeth's house and prepped our up-and-coming community garden. Tonight, she finished tilling the soil and then we raked the extra grass off the top. It was fun to get to work in the earth and have good conversation with a new friend. Tomorrow we are planting the seeds. Hopefully by weeks end, the garden will be ready and just need some TLC. I can just feel some love coming up with those veggies, so watch for future blogs.

Since I was not around kids all day my energy level was through the roof at 5:00. So, I hit the gym for a cycle class that kicked my ass! After raking the ground at the garden, I can already feel my back muscles growing sore.

All of this physical activity lead me to fall for one of my old time loves....freshly washed sheets. Is there anything better? Freshly washed, straight out of the dryer, crisp, comfy, warm. To top it off, I put my pillows in the dryer to fluff them up. It is a simple thing that I have come to seek after a long, hard day. I am laying in my bed now typing, and can't thing of a better place in the world. I am falling in love...with my....zzzzzz

Grace is falling...in love with workshop days

2010-04-28T08:23:00.000-07:00

Today I have a workshop to attend for my job. It doesn't start until 1 p.m. Woah! So, I did run up to work and while my substitute taught my lessons, I got some testing of my kids reading fluency out of the way. Much needed break! But, by 9 I was done. I ran home and picked up a few things. Now, I am at Portland Brew in East Nashville with a pot of chai tea and some of my required reading.

For someone who gets up at 5:30, spends all day with 20 little ones, get home around 5 and passes out in bed at 9, this day is something to cherish. I envy all who have the flexibility to decide when and where they will get their work done. On the other hand, what would I do with my days? I mean, I love being at a cafe to read my books instead of trying to fit my reading and writing in at the end of the day before I sleep. But, here I am at the cafe...well...not reading but blogging. Maybe the rigid schedule that I stick to everyday is good for me. It gives me direction and consistency.

So, maybe I won't envy the others for too long. But, for two days I will be happy in "opposite world". I am falling in love...with tea, books, and quiet time at 10 a.m on a weekday.

Grace is falling...in love with the spring in Nashville

2010-04-25T09:43:00.001-07:00

Last night, we had storms. This morning, we have spring. Beautiful, crisp, windy spring weather. I opened all the windows in our apartment. This is the view out of our kitchen window. I love this view. I don't do dishes very often (that reminds me to tell of you this certain man I am falling in love with), but when I do this view makes it tolerable. Our next door neighbor has this charming, light pink house. I don't know exactly why, but I love looking at the pink against the wood and white fences. There are some trees you can't see that make it lovely, too.

We moved to Nashville in the summer of '09, so we haven't experienced the spring. Everyone says it will make up for the horrible winter I just experienced. My heart was hardened toward Nashville because of that. I do have to admit, this morning is causing my heart to soften. I am falling....in love with Nashville.

grace is falling...in love with my teeny tiny kitchen

2010-04-25T09:27:00.000-07:00

Here is my teeny, tiny kitchen. It isn't much, but I have all I need.

I started the National Writing Project today. I have officially become a writer. It isn't as hard as I thought it would be. You kinda just have to....write. The people in the project are amazing, and I can't wait for June 7th to start. But, as I drove home from Murfressboro (my summer commute will be longer than I like, but worth it) I started to get overwhelmed. I realized that I have a lot of things on my plate in the next few weeks. My stomach was all in knots and I couldn't stop running down my list of things to do.

When I got home, I immediately ran to my kitchen. I walked in and just had to take a picture. I'm not a gourmet cook who can whip up amazing meals on the spot. I usually have to rummage through recipes to find my dinner plans. But, I guess all that matters is that I love cooking. It is almost like therapy for me. I love to chop, dice, saute, brown...I love seeing the food come together. Even if it's just a simple cheese quesadilla, which is what I turned to yesterday in my kitchen.

The truth is, I've been in love with my kitchen for a while. But, I'm falling for it all over again.