tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-45497949818856257232024-03-16T02:32:21.182-05:00Always Chasing LifeAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.comBlogger489125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-28520064818213143892016-08-13T09:08:00.001-05:002016-08-13T09:08:00.304-05:00Page MovedThe blog moved over to alwayschasinglife.com :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-44477941044279868492015-07-28T09:58:00.001-05:002015-07-28T09:58:47.651-05:00Dear Maddux<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hBQCqmKbwsc/VbeVcsCEPvI/AAAAAAAAKpo/xFe0srLzgH0/s1600/boys.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hBQCqmKbwsc/VbeVcsCEPvI/AAAAAAAAKpo/xFe0srLzgH0/s640/boys.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="direction: ltr;">
<div style="direction: ltr; margin-left: 0in; margin-top: 0in; width: 6.109in;">
</div>
</div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
Dear Maddux, </div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
I almost cannot even
put into words the pride I have felt watching you turn into a big brother. I
remember people telling me that sharing would be hard and there would be
jealousy… and random things in between. But I had a feeling that they would be
wrong. I kept my mouth shut and just nodded in agreement with a smile on my
face (because they were trying to warn me of all the things they had
experienced between their siblings… or their children) However, I knew in my
heart you would be different. </div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
You were enamored
the day you got to be a big brother. Hudson was in the special care nursery so
you were unable to go in and meet him. But the nurses were so kind to give you
a step stool so you could stand outside the glass and see your brother. Nurse Jane
brought him over… and your face lit up… and immediately you started blowing
kisses to your brother repeatedly telling us how cute he was.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Your behavior… your excitement…. Your
admiration brought me to tears (maybe it was the hormones… but by now you know
your mom is ridiculously emotional and I can cry in an instant) But this
moment…<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>is one of those memories I will
never forget. I still remember that moment vividly as if it just happened
yesterday. </div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
I was curious to see
if the "newness" of being a big brother would wear off on you. If it
would get old… if jealousy would peak through at moments. I am surprised to say
we haven't seen a single glimpse of jealousy. Not once. I feel guilty when you
ask for something and my answer is… "is in a moment… I have to feed Hudson
first" but you just say "okay" and you get it… without any type
of resentment… you wait for me to get done. </div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
Sure, there are days
where you go about your business and pay little attention to your brother. You
get lost playing with your toys… and the whole world disappears (which is one
of my favorite things about you) But every night… you hug… and kiss your brother.
Every morning the first thing you ask about is your brother. Hudson is your
first thought in the morning… shortly followed by "I'm hungry" but
still… :) </div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
You have already
placed yourself in the role of his protector. If he cries you want to make sure
he is okay. If he whines… you are immediately by his side singing him a song to
cheer him up. </div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
I can't wait to see
what your relationship evolves into. I can't wait for him to get bigger so that
they two of you can play together. I can't wait to sit at dinner and listen to
your conversations. I can't wait to watch you teach him new things… how to throw
a football,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>how to ride a bike, etc. You
already want to be the one that teaches him everything… </div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
I cannot tell you
how extremely proud of you I am. Sometimes kids have a hard time transitioning
into this role.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And even though I was
pretty confident you would transition just as you have… there were a few
worried thoughts… 5 years our lives have revolved solely around you. You have
been the only child for so long… I wondered if others were right? Would this be
hard on you? Would you not understand? Would you be jealous? </div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
And every single day
you show me that could not be farther from the truth. Every single day you
amaze me with your maturity. You share… you play… you sing… you hug… you love
your little brother with everything you have. </div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
I always write on
here about your sweet soul. Your kind spirit. I truly believe you are a unique
kid… I thank God every single day for you. You are such a blessing to us.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
</div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
Love, </div>
<br />
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
Mom</div>
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QESHA91QL3I/VbeXMAMoHPI/AAAAAAAAKp4/FfyzRxfl0jU/s1600/boys2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QESHA91QL3I/VbeXMAMoHPI/AAAAAAAAKp4/FfyzRxfl0jU/s640/boys2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 11pt; margin: 0in;">
</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-85380858730348096222015-07-02T20:23:00.002-05:002015-07-02T20:23:32.089-05:00Pool Part 2I had full intentions of sharing some in progress photos with you... and well... I got distracted. (Like normal) So I am back with some in progress photos. We still have a LONG way to go... but its looking a lot better from where we left off.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hFO9xYcD328/VZXhS23L6KI/AAAAAAAAKn0/7j5U4szhy-0/s1600/pool%2Bbeginning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-hFO9xYcD328/VZXhS23L6KI/AAAAAAAAKn0/7j5U4szhy-0/s640/pool%2Bbeginning.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Alright. So back to our to do list<br />
<br />
- <strike>Level out the extra dirt - use it to level out the side yard</strike><br />
<strike>- Have electrician put in electric line</strike><br />
<strike>- Have gas line installed</strike><br />
<strike>- Get a heater for the pool</strike><br />
<strike>- Build retaining wall around the pool so the yard does not cave in and ruin the pool</strike><br />
<strike>- Design and build a deck around the pool</strike><br />
<strike>- Plant in front of deck</strike><br />
- Plant something big at end of patio to block site of the pool<br />
- Stain deck<br />
<strike>- Add furniture and Accessories (the fun part!)</strike><br />
- <strike>Enjoy pool</strike><br />
<strike>- </strike>Add Rails<br />
- Finish Retaining wall around patio<br />
- Build steps onto deck<br />
- Plan fire pit area off patio<br />
- More landscaping around the pool/deck area<br />
<br />
So a few things about the photos below.<br />
<br />
1. the fire pit area is a mess. I threw scrap wood over there and never cleaned it up. so just keeping it real with how it looks right now. Right now we are planning on leveling out the area around... putting down sand and pea gravel. Its a small space. so I am trying to figure out how to make it work...<br />
<br />
2. We currently have a little bench i set up as a pretend step onto the deck. I'm not entirely sure what we are doing in this area either. which is why only a portion of the retaining wall is built. I have a lot of configuring to do...<br />
<br />
3. This deck will look so much better with rails and stain. Just wait.<br />
<br />
4. My deck upstairs is bare now that I stole all the furniture. Now I need to find something to go up there...<br />
<br />
5. We decided to take a break and enjoy the pool for a few weeks... After the Fourth of July we are hoping to get working on the fire pit area... finishing up the retaining wall ... adding the rails.. and maybe staining the deck :) It will be a busy July!<br />
<br />
6. If any of you are curious.. this is taking up basically our ENTIRE back yard. But luckily we are on a corner lot... so we have a ton of yard over there for the kids to play... we are considering building a playhouse over in that area... we also use the side yard for bags ... baseball practice... and volleyball :)<br />
<br />
But enough explaining... Here is the in progress photos of our back yard as it currently stands.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Here is the view looking down from the top deck... I'm not entirely sure on the furniture set up. I figure once we get rails up... I will re-arrange it again.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nxKfkF8lpq8/VZXU3N4jmpI/AAAAAAAAKnE/3DmhLI5FMtY/s1600/pool%2Barea-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-nxKfkF8lpq8/VZXU3N4jmpI/AAAAAAAAKnE/3DmhLI5FMtY/s640/pool%2Barea-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Here is the view looking from the patio<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nnzzgAFeFjY/VZXU3TVs2MI/AAAAAAAAKnM/_UbYFTHHGEo/s1600/pool%2Barea-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-nnzzgAFeFjY/VZXU3TVs2MI/AAAAAAAAKnM/_UbYFTHHGEo/s640/pool%2Barea-2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Here is the view from the side yard<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_-RdsOE2pRE/VZXU3XtnnII/AAAAAAAAKnI/Vgifxmi9Vuw/s1600/pool%2Barea-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_-RdsOE2pRE/VZXU3XtnnII/AAAAAAAAKnI/Vgifxmi9Vuw/s640/pool%2Barea-3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Here's that disaster area i referenced above ;)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WtIkMhtgGCc/VZXU5IG9C7I/AAAAAAAAKnc/wONQAz6-H6w/s1600/pool%2Barea-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-WtIkMhtgGCc/VZXU5IG9C7I/AAAAAAAAKnc/wONQAz6-H6w/s640/pool%2Barea-4.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And another shot from above showing you the patio/part of the deck/pool/and future fire pit area<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X01CaxmOHb8/VZXU5IKlv3I/AAAAAAAAKng/QVrIe5OdApA/s1600/pool%2Barea-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-X01CaxmOHb8/VZXU5IKlv3I/AAAAAAAAKng/QVrIe5OdApA/s640/pool%2Barea-5.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
I would have loved to do wide stairs all the way across the deck to the patio. However with kids... we need rails and a gate for safety. Maybe once they get a little bigger we could change this up... Who knows what we will be doing by then!<br />
<br />
Right now... we have a lot things to do. But enough of it is done that we are able to enjoy it...<br />
Maddux has been living in the pool. I swear ... even in this cool weather we have been having... 70 degrees and he is out there ready to swim! At least we can already see that this was a great investment for our family.<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-19374941529043789782015-06-03T08:17:00.004-05:002015-06-03T08:22:41.223-05:00We decided to buy a pool... We decided to buy a pool this past year. To be completely honest... I have never wanted to own a pool and I am not sure where I am on it... still. But Maddux and his dad were begging for one. So I decided to give in and see how it goes... Under the agreement that taking care of the pool is 100% my husbands responsibility And we got Maddux in swimming lessons so he knows how to swim. Because... pools and kids... FREAK ME OUT!<br />
<br />
Our yard is crazy messed up. its a giant hill filled with weeds and craziness. so the idea of not having to worry about the yard is great. However... trying to tie a deck in with our current deck and patio is going to be.... interesting. But I think we finally came up with a plan... In my head it looks good. We will see if that comes across in real life or not.<br />
<br />
They delivered the pool a few weeks ago and set up a time for the dig. So after the guys left...<br />
Day 1 of pool installation left us looking at this...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J8_wy50mMQI/VW6Ewd_DSwI/AAAAAAAAKaU/pvPLF4xJWn8/s1600/pool%2Bbeg.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J8_wy50mMQI/VW6Ewd_DSwI/AAAAAAAAKaU/pvPLF4xJWn8/s640/pool%2Bbeg.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qoG8zYurMTg/VW6E1A-vVYI/AAAAAAAAKac/4fcsxuMz8RM/s1600/pool-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qoG8zYurMTg/VW6E1A-vVYI/AAAAAAAAKac/4fcsxuMz8RM/s640/pool-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i8XnUBLEuq0/VW6E1iFIJBI/AAAAAAAAKag/GeHW_qDFf4Y/s1600/pool%2B2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-i8XnUBLEuq0/VW6E1iFIJBI/AAAAAAAAKag/GeHW_qDFf4Y/s640/pool%2B2-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
We are going to attempt to design a deck and figure it all out with some help from some family and friends. I like that they dug into our yard so the deck will be relatively low, so I feel like it will fit in a bit more with the stone patio. We will see how it all goes over the next month.<br />
<br />
And because I like lists... Our to do list is as follows<br />
<br />
- Level out the extra dirt - use it to level out the side yard<br />
- Have electrician put in electric line<br />
- Have gas line installed<br />
- Get a heater for the pool<br />
- Build retaining wall around the pool so the yard does not cave in and ruin the pool<br />
- Design and build a deck around the pool<br />
- Build flower boxes between patio and deck<br />
- Plant something big at end of patio to block site of the pool<br />
- Stain deck<br />
- Add furniture and Accessories (the fun part!)<br />
- Enjoy pool<br />
<br />
It is quite the to do list... and because we are doing so much of it ourselves it will take some time.<br />
This week we have someone coming out to move the dirt on the side of the house and we went out and bought all the materials for the deck and retaining wall.<br />
<br />
We are hoping to get a good head start on the deck this week. And hopefully the week after that we can get the electric and gas going... and finally start enjoying the pool!<br />
Fingers crossed for us. A lot of things have to come together to get it finished within the next few weeks!<br />
<br />
Anyone love building decks? Anyone feel like just volunteering time to come over?<br />
<br />
No??? Figured as much... Guess we need to get started...<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-2840635333544370572015-05-18T00:11:00.002-05:002015-06-03T08:20:36.925-05:00Hudson's Birth StorySo Thursday April 16th, I was having light contractions throughout the night. I had even told my mom earlier... I might have to make a trip into the hospital... because they were pretty consistent... but I was just thinking I was being paranoid and crazy. So that night... they got worse... and I was laying on the couch in pain... and my husband was trying to reason with me.... "Let's just go in Fawn... have them check it out... better safe than sorry" and I refused. I was so worried about looking like a crazy person... because seriously... my family never has babies early... so I just knew... this was all in my head. Well... finally he called my doctor... to which he said... have her drink some water... and lay down and see if they slow down. So we did that... and nope they stayed just where they were. So we called him back an hour later and he advised we go into the hospital.<br />
<br />
At this point, my husband panics. He is literally no help in this situation at all. He is usually calm and easy going... until he thinks we could possibly having a baby and then all reasoning just goes out the window. He literally ran around our house up and down the stairs in mad chaos. and I thought for sure he was packing stuff to get ready. So while he did that... I grabbed my hospital bag... and the baby bag. I got Maddux dressed. Got shoes on him... and then I look at Jerry and say... are you ready? and he replies yes. So we get in the car... and i was like do you have the camera? the video camera? and your wallet? and he just... stared at me. with this blank stare... and it took him literally 7 seconds to process. Nope. he does not. so then he ran back in disappeared for a while and then ran back out...completely out of breath. we back out of the driveway and he realizes.... He still does not have his wallet. so we have to go back....<br />
<br />
I honestly have no idea what this guy just did for the past 45 minutes. He did not grab clothes. or cameras. or wallets... he literally grabbed nothing. However, he ran around our house like a mad person. So I just ask him.... what did you do while running around???? and he looks back at me and says ... very seriously... I think I just .... ran up and down the stairs repeatedly.<br />
Well okay then...<br />
<br />
So we get to the hospital... and its about 10 pm at night. Maddux is somehow wide awake... and filled with energy. I am annoyed... and feel like we are wasting our time... and Jerry is still recovering from the mini marathon he just put on back at home. They get us in... hook me up to machines... and then it all begins.<br />
<br />
Hudson was dipping very low... consistently.. which was concerning... so they said, well we are going to keep you overnight and observe this and see if this gets better. So we had to call my mom to come get Maddux... She got there around... 1AM if i remember right... Maddux was still. WIDE AWAKE filled with energy. I felt bad for her... that kid was not going to sleep any time soon. I kept telling her that I would be home tomorrow and I am sorry for the inconvenience and Jerry kept correcting me because apparently the nurse had said they would be taking the baby at some point that weekend... but i refused to acknowledge it. I was just convinced I was going home.<br />
<br />
So we finally fell asleep around... 2AM. and was woken up two short hours later... with the nurse saying. Okay Dr Michael is on his way... and we will be performing a c-section in about an hour.<br />
<br />
..... Umm What?<br />
<br />
This is the worst way to be woken up. Let me tell you.<br />
<br />
She preceded to say that Hudson kept dropping and they aren't sure why he was in distress but it was enough that they wanted to get him out to avoid any issues.<br />
<br />
... Okay.<br />
<br />
Well I have never had surgery. And the c-section that was scheduled for 2 weeks out was already giving me nightmares... almost daily. so giving me one hour to prepare... was terrible. I was scared to death. And i didn't get time to wrap my head around it. because once they came in... they start prepping you for surgery. Here Fawn... please drink this... Here Fawn please sign these forms... etc etc.<br />
<br />
Then they take you into the room for the c-section... and i realized okay... Jerry stopped following at some point. So then I am panicking in my head. All I wanted at that moment was him in the room. but instead... he was waiting outside until they got me prepped. Those 20 minutes or however long it was...it felt like 2 hours. I am sure it was just a few minutes... While they are poking your back with the most painful needles telling you not to move... relax your shoulders while i just stab you repeatedly with this... meanwhile doctors and nurses are moving about the room discussing weekend plans... gardening ideas... what movies they are going to see. etc etc. and its just... overwhelming...<br />
<br />
Finally... Jerry came into the room. And it began.<br />
<br />
I actually hated this experience. Maybe because i wasn't ready. Maybe because it was different because he was a few weeks early. But i remember hearing Hudson cry... and everyone talking about the baby... I couldn't see. and all i wanted to do was see my baby. They asked Jerry to come over to the baby... and he was sweet enough to not at first go because he knew it was killing me to not see him... so he didn't get up until i was like... go ... go see him. :) and finally which seemed like an hour... Jerry brought him over... I got to look at him... and kiss him...and finally meet Hudson.... but just for a few minutes. because he was having some breathing issues they had to take him to the special care nursery.<br />
Hudson was 5 lbs 14 oz. and 20 inches long. He was tiny compared to Maddux. Maddux was almost 9 lbs when he was born... so Hudson was about half the size. So little.<br />
Comes to find out, he was dipping because he had the cord wrapped around his neck and around one of his legs.<br />
<br />
So it was like.. they cut me open... took my baby.. and I couldn't see him.<br />
I had to wait there while they put me all back together. I told Jerry to go with Hudson....<br />
So I was there by myself... To which then they wheel you off to a recovery room for a while to sit... and wait. and I still wasn't able to see Hudson. Then after that hour... they finally wheeled me over to see my baby. so i got to be next to him for a bit before going back to my room. They said he was having some issue with breathing. but it might go away on its own. it all depends.... and basically it was a waiting game.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XJLhxXqW2J0/VVlx3ROwhZI/AAAAAAAAKU4/0VOLZPjMAEw/s1600/hudson%2B1-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="417" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XJLhxXqW2J0/VVlx3ROwhZI/AAAAAAAAKU4/0VOLZPjMAEw/s640/hudson%2B1-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0z94nShf_L4/VVlx4fsmymI/AAAAAAAAKVA/eOQUwKSdl8k/s1600/hudson%2B12-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0z94nShf_L4/VVlx4fsmymI/AAAAAAAAKVA/eOQUwKSdl8k/s640/hudson%2B12-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NVjXomH0HH8/VVlx5Mf_TvI/AAAAAAAAKVQ/3vEudNpXo5s/s1600/hudson%2B13-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-NVjXomH0HH8/VVlx5Mf_TvI/AAAAAAAAKVQ/3vEudNpXo5s/s640/hudson%2B13-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H15XWxX5hUo/VVlx5VF4zeI/AAAAAAAAKVM/eN4jHTOGNXk/s1600/hudson%2B14-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-H15XWxX5hUo/VVlx5VF4zeI/AAAAAAAAKVM/eN4jHTOGNXk/s640/hudson%2B14-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Op8yMljWtxs/VVlx5593h1I/AAAAAAAAKVY/iVWkz5XvOb8/s1600/hudson%2B15-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Op8yMljWtxs/VVlx5593h1I/AAAAAAAAKVY/iVWkz5XvOb8/s640/hudson%2B15-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-46yhNrY-XmM/VVlx6cF_rcI/AAAAAAAAKVc/E2PNV9dK0X8/s1600/hudson%2B16-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-46yhNrY-XmM/VVlx6cF_rcI/AAAAAAAAKVc/E2PNV9dK0X8/s640/hudson%2B16-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
It was terrible to look at him. He looked like every breath he took was hurting him. He was working so hard to breathe. I wasn't to touch him... since he was in distress. and I couldn't handle just sitting there watching him... and nothing I could do to make it better. It was terrifying. We were told to touch his head and his feet... and kind of apply some pressure to calm him. But that was really the only touching we got to do for a day.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rkvMjyx7XaU/VVlx9LwuhSI/AAAAAAAAKYA/PtjPads1ocU/s1600/hudson%2B22-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rkvMjyx7XaU/VVlx9LwuhSI/AAAAAAAAKYA/PtjPads1ocU/s640/hudson%2B22-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9jvBsAYFchc/VVlx_OQ-2XI/AAAAAAAAKWs/xvw3OgmbzhA/s1600/hudson%2B25-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-9jvBsAYFchc/VVlx_OQ-2XI/AAAAAAAAKWs/xvw3OgmbzhA/s640/hudson%2B25-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kHcKdW-MIiE/VVlx9TgNxQI/AAAAAAAAKYE/JJjWCy-EOxU/s1600/hudson%2B23-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kHcKdW-MIiE/VVlx9TgNxQI/AAAAAAAAKYE/JJjWCy-EOxU/s640/hudson%2B23-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VRrazx7Uol4/VVlx93-DVqI/AAAAAAAAKYI/mPCfIPMNr3o/s1600/hudson%2B24-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VRrazx7Uol4/VVlx93-DVqI/AAAAAAAAKYI/mPCfIPMNr3o/s640/hudson%2B24-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Throughout the day i would go in and out of the special care nursery... and he wasn't getting too much better. They ended up giving him some medicine that was to open his lungs... which helped a bit... but he was still struggling.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-07h2aghW2T0/VVlx8gio0bI/AAAAAAAAKWQ/nQGmuBOiTag/s1600/hudson%2B21-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-07h2aghW2T0/VVlx8gio0bI/AAAAAAAAKWQ/nQGmuBOiTag/s640/hudson%2B21-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We had planned on taking Maddux to his first Cubs game that Saturday... before Hudson's surprise arrival on Friday morning. So I told Jerry he should still take Maddux. There was nothing he could do for me or Hudson... so he might as well take Maddux ... give Maddux a day with his dad... and plus. Maddux was announcing "Play Ball" in front of the entire ballpark. How cool is that? I did not want him to miss it.<br />
<br />
Saturday morning Jerry left... and about an hour after... the nurse came in... and said... something about him getting worse.. it was a blur. I cant tell you what she said. They were going to try something.. and if that didn't work then he might get transferred. and I felt like I couldn't breathe. I was not the one that dealt with this stuff. This was the stuff i needed Jerry for. I ignore bad news... I am not the person who handles it. I avoid it. and I was the only person there .... so i texted my mom. and thankfully her and my sister were in my room within an hour. and from there the day just got worse. because of all the stress... Hudson's lung collapsed. so they needed to put in a chest tube. and I needed to sign.... more paperwork... and the nurses all said a bunch of things... that I again didn't listen to... and i just sat there. It was pretty much an entire day of crying. If someone talked to me... I cried. All i wanted was them to fix my baby... and tell me he was better. Other than hearing those words "Hudson is all better now" I was tired of people talking to me. I was so tired of bad news.<br />
<br />
So... they put in the chest tube... and hooked him up to multiple machines... and thankfully.. within a few hours... at least i could see he wasn't struggling to breathe. he was breathing...easier... and he looked like he was finally able to get some rest. He was filled with tubes. Chest tube, breathing tube, feeding tube, the IV, and then all those other machines tracking his heart rate and oxygen.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2dG4zg8vQvk/VVlyAi7I0fI/AAAAAAAAKXM/Sis1S7VJi-8/s1600/hudson%2B3-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-2dG4zg8vQvk/VVlyAi7I0fI/AAAAAAAAKXM/Sis1S7VJi-8/s640/hudson%2B3-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x7eedAn7ny0/VVlyBbyvSsI/AAAAAAAAKXo/G360ocXdBvs/s1600/hudson%2B4-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-x7eedAn7ny0/VVlyBbyvSsI/AAAAAAAAKXo/G360ocXdBvs/s640/hudson%2B4-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
After the chest tube was in and he was breathing better... and things were improving... They started letting me hold him and doing some skin to skin to help him feel better. Which honestly... probably calmed me down just as much as it calmed him.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tTMxY55JqUg/VVlx7N6FkKI/AAAAAAAAKV0/ApfHvgRhHSA/s1600/hudson%2B18-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-tTMxY55JqUg/VVlx7N6FkKI/AAAAAAAAKV0/ApfHvgRhHSA/s640/hudson%2B18-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EYHy4_sF62Y/VVlx7eFPp5I/AAAAAAAAKWA/qt_JqZ9uJCo/s1600/hudson%2B19-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EYHy4_sF62Y/VVlx7eFPp5I/AAAAAAAAKWA/qt_JqZ9uJCo/s640/hudson%2B19-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CF1ciprSzN8/VVlx8HtT0-I/AAAAAAAAKWE/RfpeRD_rQmA/s1600/hudson%2B20-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-CF1ciprSzN8/VVlx8HtT0-I/AAAAAAAAKWE/RfpeRD_rQmA/s640/hudson%2B20-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
The next couple of days all get mixed in together. But the chest tube was in on Saturday... and they took it out on Tuesday morning. They also removed the feeding tube on Tuesday morning.... and over the next few days... they removed everything else. I was released on Tuesday... So Wednesday and Thursday... I came into the Nursery around 7am and left at about 8pm at night.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oxpH7vzwN7k/VVlx_ZhlGMI/AAAAAAAAKX4/3-Xif62EmTk/s1600/hudson%2B26-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oxpH7vzwN7k/VVlx_ZhlGMI/AAAAAAAAKX4/3-Xif62EmTk/s640/hudson%2B26-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-toSomVAHLYc/VVlx_kML4AI/AAAAAAAAKW0/_2ddK1gkzWA/s1600/hudson%2B27-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-toSomVAHLYc/VVlx_kML4AI/AAAAAAAAKW0/_2ddK1gkzWA/s640/hudson%2B27-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
It was hard... I felt like I didn't see Maddux all week. And Maddux didn't understand why he couldn't meet his baby brother. The whole situation was heart breaking... and I couldn't wait for both boys to be under one roof. There was a lot of momma guilt going on... with each boy.<br />
<br />
And by Friday they were allowing him to come home. I was scared... was he ready... Were they sure his lungs were fine? I had a thousand questions for the nurses.<br />
<br />
We were assured that there would be no long term affects from this. It was just something that just happened... but luckily... he made a full recovery. And he recovered quick.<br />
He spent one week in the hospital.... and I spent an entire week crying... and worrying and stressing out. I was lucky. Our stay was relatively short compared to some. And my heart goes out to anyone that has to go through the ups and downs of the NICU with their babies...<br />
<br />
I realize how lucky we are that we only had to go through this for a week. And I realize women out there go through so much worse... and babies are in there for months upon months.<br />
I only got a tiny dose of what that is like... but that week was the longest week of my life. I could not have survived that week without my husband, my mom, and my sister.<br />
Those three got me through it. Those three were there for me throughout it all. And I am so grateful they were there... so thankful that they let me deal with it the only way I know how... And thankful I had a five year old boy that had no idea what was going on and provided such a happy, energetic distraction.... because I needed those messy face smiles that week more than anything. :)<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YMLINJZGGN4/VVlyAJ1FQWI/AAAAAAAAKXA/D_GA-44fvYg/s1600/hudson%2B28-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YMLINJZGGN4/VVlyAJ1FQWI/AAAAAAAAKXA/D_GA-44fvYg/s640/hudson%2B28-1.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
And that is the story, about how Hudson David Teresi gave us the biggest scare his first week of life :)Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-22416688552518270582015-04-10T00:10:00.002-05:002015-06-03T08:20:52.219-05:00Hudson's Room - Part 4 - Changing Table AreaThis was the last completely empty space in the nursery... and finally it's filled!<br />
<br />
We ended up grabbing a cheap dresser from Ikea. Found <a href="http://www.ikea.com/aa/en/catalog/products/90221422/">Here</a>.<br />
We stained it (Dark Walnut) and added new Hardware. We decided to use what we had for this space so we threw our changing table cover up on top and hung a green shelf that we have had laying around the basement for quite some time.<br />
<br />
Then little by little we started adding a few things...<br />
I had this star bunting I bought off Etsy that I originally thought I would hang from the bookshelves in the corner... but ended up using it here instead.<br />
On top of the shelf we put a snail up there that was painted for me as a kid by my Uncle Dave, a metal initial H, Sophie the Giraffe, a basket filled with changing table essentials, and a hand drawing of Wrigley Field from Uncle Willie.<br />
<br />
Below the shelf was luckily filled in with more awesome shower gifts. A homemade blanket from Grandma Jones, a puppy stuffed animal from Nana (one that matches Maddux's favorite stuffed doggie he has had since he was a baby), and the adorable elephant hook holding up those bright green shoes (Thanks Lauren!) :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d2CYSwRtWW8/VSdZj98sOdI/AAAAAAAAKTE/pvyMBP_Adpc/s1600/hudson%2Bnursery%2BCT1-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-d2CYSwRtWW8/VSdZj98sOdI/AAAAAAAAKTE/pvyMBP_Adpc/s1600/hudson%2Bnursery%2BCT1-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1QE4Qu-ojX0/VSdZj_AfC1I/AAAAAAAAKTM/lONLqETEFLo/s1600/hudson%2Bnursery%2BCT2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1QE4Qu-ojX0/VSdZj_AfC1I/AAAAAAAAKTM/lONLqETEFLo/s1600/hudson%2Bnursery%2BCT2-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BzEFSikDRnw/VSdZkES5IAI/AAAAAAAAKTI/-dysOdLNqf0/s1600/hudson%2Bnursery%2BCT3-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BzEFSikDRnw/VSdZkES5IAI/AAAAAAAAKTI/-dysOdLNqf0/s1600/hudson%2Bnursery%2BCT3-1.jpg" width="430" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We are about 3 weeks away from meeting this little man. And I am getting so excited his room is almost complete. We have a few finishing touches here and there. We are hoping to finalize this week. I will be back with one final post to show off the completed nursery from top to bottom.<br />
<br />
I love that this little space was filled in with so many handmade gifts... and personal touches by family and friends.<br />
<br />
I can't believe this room will have a baby in it... in just a few short weeks! We are cutting it close with getting this nursery finished!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-16292318034145550352015-04-06T10:02:00.000-05:002015-06-03T08:21:03.164-05:00Milkshake Date with Maddux<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Dear Maddux, </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
In about a month, you will become a big brother. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
And to be honest... at this moment you could not be more excited. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You always talk about your new best bud Hudson and all the fun things you will do together. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You picked out all matching outfits for you and him on our first family vacation this coming summer. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
You kiss my belly every single night and whisper... "Goodnight Hudson" </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
and every night that sweet little whisper gets me choked up.... every. single. time.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Even though... I cannot wait for you to meet your little brother. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
I am looking forward to these final days of it just being... Us.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
These days of focusing solely on ... just you.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Thank you to Melody Ann Photography for capturing a few moments... while its still just us two. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d0gfYsYDAPA/VSCevNaxn1I/AAAAAAAAKLc/Nf4yeffn8d0/s1600/IMG_8981.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-d0gfYsYDAPA/VSCevNaxn1I/AAAAAAAAKLc/Nf4yeffn8d0/s1600/IMG_8981.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wmYKknmegS4/VSCewDu_Z_I/AAAAAAAAKLw/rvrU1ehKj0k/s1600/IMG_8987.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wmYKknmegS4/VSCewDu_Z_I/AAAAAAAAKLw/rvrU1ehKj0k/s1600/IMG_8987.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HtfGA5JJtac/VSCewIh0PsI/AAAAAAAAKL0/Evimf9TDpSo/s1600/IMG_8994.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-HtfGA5JJtac/VSCewIh0PsI/AAAAAAAAKL0/Evimf9TDpSo/s1600/IMG_8994.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5MOF1Iy1XLM/VSCexe4NsaI/AAAAAAAAKMQ/OI0phppP-5g/s1600/IMG_9000.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5MOF1Iy1XLM/VSCexe4NsaI/AAAAAAAAKMQ/OI0phppP-5g/s1600/IMG_9000.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-azDB4umgI1U/VSCey9HAcZI/AAAAAAAAKMo/HmASPXIsp8k/s1600/IMG_9006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-azDB4umgI1U/VSCey9HAcZI/AAAAAAAAKMo/HmASPXIsp8k/s1600/IMG_9006.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H05pzzOK3NA/VSCez9xUgbI/AAAAAAAAKNA/iOmHk9VxtHo/s1600/IMG_9020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-H05pzzOK3NA/VSCez9xUgbI/AAAAAAAAKNA/iOmHk9VxtHo/s1600/IMG_9020.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IV0gaEzsweA/VSCe1ClruKI/AAAAAAAAKNU/ulxLOytMWk0/s1600/IMG_9032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-IV0gaEzsweA/VSCe1ClruKI/AAAAAAAAKNU/ulxLOytMWk0/s1600/IMG_9032.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8A7WhHl1CzQ/VSCe1DDv3FI/AAAAAAAAKNc/PGRS85oJpfM/s1600/IMG_9033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8A7WhHl1CzQ/VSCe1DDv3FI/AAAAAAAAKNc/PGRS85oJpfM/s1600/IMG_9033.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VWBBSxMb7Ac/VSCe2XWGUNI/AAAAAAAAKN0/DONfAkezHSI/s1600/IMG_9037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-VWBBSxMb7Ac/VSCe2XWGUNI/AAAAAAAAKN0/DONfAkezHSI/s1600/IMG_9037.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ww-PamsQJOQ/VSCe2e9P-gI/AAAAAAAAKNw/UWOUIG9nBEI/s1600/IMG_9055.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Ww-PamsQJOQ/VSCe2e9P-gI/AAAAAAAAKNw/UWOUIG9nBEI/s1600/IMG_9055.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SR1E-hqZbCo/VSCe4rDMMII/AAAAAAAAKOY/3dzh7zFfags/s1600/IMG_9069.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-SR1E-hqZbCo/VSCe4rDMMII/AAAAAAAAKOY/3dzh7zFfags/s1600/IMG_9069.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4AKo2JsDM7I/VSCe4mo2AeI/AAAAAAAAKOc/Z5cj8Nx3xQY/s1600/IMG_9070.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4AKo2JsDM7I/VSCe4mo2AeI/AAAAAAAAKOc/Z5cj8Nx3xQY/s1600/IMG_9070.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LckB5azCp1g/VSCe419EgRI/AAAAAAAAKOk/Tn3V0jMlPaU/s1600/IMG_9077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LckB5azCp1g/VSCe419EgRI/AAAAAAAAKOk/Tn3V0jMlPaU/s1600/IMG_9077.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qAUspmPTlzw/VSCe5XSJfII/AAAAAAAAKO0/GN43Oe3iPLY/s1600/IMG_9085.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-qAUspmPTlzw/VSCe5XSJfII/AAAAAAAAKO0/GN43Oe3iPLY/s1600/IMG_9085.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EUcN1RbA4eQ/VSCe52pR_cI/AAAAAAAAKO4/nSwZ1sdEZL8/s1600/IMG_9086.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EUcN1RbA4eQ/VSCe52pR_cI/AAAAAAAAKO4/nSwZ1sdEZL8/s1600/IMG_9086.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g4ga-tkoZHU/VSCe6cBWpAI/AAAAAAAAKPM/_Mf_zGv0SVY/s1600/IMG_9092.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-g4ga-tkoZHU/VSCe6cBWpAI/AAAAAAAAKPM/_Mf_zGv0SVY/s1600/IMG_9092.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EVJo5GCGLew/VSCe63kRarI/AAAAAAAAKPQ/Z0K672-cmGg/s1600/IMG_9096.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-EVJo5GCGLew/VSCe63kRarI/AAAAAAAAKPQ/Z0K672-cmGg/s1600/IMG_9096.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OmrkhgGB2x0/VSCe69RF7dI/AAAAAAAAKPU/G9KWe5dlwjA/s1600/IMG_9098.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-OmrkhgGB2x0/VSCe69RF7dI/AAAAAAAAKPU/G9KWe5dlwjA/s1600/IMG_9098.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eJeEvEpxqnc/VSCe8OJH3JI/AAAAAAAAKPs/nzGZpTIJs98/s1600/IMG_9109.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eJeEvEpxqnc/VSCe8OJH3JI/AAAAAAAAKPs/nzGZpTIJs98/s1600/IMG_9109.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J4Uolx3BlY8/VSCe9IjOKJI/AAAAAAAAKP8/KsclSXHoko0/s1600/IMG_9133.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J4Uolx3BlY8/VSCe9IjOKJI/AAAAAAAAKP8/KsclSXHoko0/s1600/IMG_9133.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-32jK33M9UoM/VSCe-JLDcCI/AAAAAAAAKQQ/T-qLNIl1ioA/s1600/IMG_9142.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-32jK33M9UoM/VSCe-JLDcCI/AAAAAAAAKQQ/T-qLNIl1ioA/s1600/IMG_9142.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tgyWFY5sqeY/VSCfASpiSqI/AAAAAAAAKQ4/7DrnBeU3Ehc/s1600/IMG_9145.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tgyWFY5sqeY/VSCfASpiSqI/AAAAAAAAKQ4/7DrnBeU3Ehc/s1600/IMG_9145.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pp4vQQtcyNQ/VSCe_B3q4mI/AAAAAAAAKQg/-J_bPq7kIIc/s1600/IMG_9146.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Pp4vQQtcyNQ/VSCe_B3q4mI/AAAAAAAAKQg/-J_bPq7kIIc/s1600/IMG_9146.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Cyr2j6973Jg/VSCe_x1OMdI/AAAAAAAAKQ0/n3lqF-v3-vk/s1600/IMG_9157.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Cyr2j6973Jg/VSCe_x1OMdI/AAAAAAAAKQ0/n3lqF-v3-vk/s1600/IMG_9157.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zvw99QJxvW8/VSCfAXcdXVI/AAAAAAAAKQ8/sCpppAqZznE/s1600/IMG_9159.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zvw99QJxvW8/VSCfAXcdXVI/AAAAAAAAKQ8/sCpppAqZznE/s1600/IMG_9159.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LKh4OnWidTE/VSCfBDao5xI/AAAAAAAAKRM/3u4OSNLcT8g/s1600/IMG_9170.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-LKh4OnWidTE/VSCfBDao5xI/AAAAAAAAKRM/3u4OSNLcT8g/s1600/IMG_9170.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pj37yNuLQ-c/VSCfB2yZwDI/AAAAAAAAKRg/AZ-2wIfo_nc/s1600/IMG_9174.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-pj37yNuLQ-c/VSCfB2yZwDI/AAAAAAAAKRg/AZ-2wIfo_nc/s1600/IMG_9174.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HLQIZVHRC2E/VSCfCXEUFYI/AAAAAAAAKRs/MPsuwErFqNc/s1600/IMG_9192.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HLQIZVHRC2E/VSCfCXEUFYI/AAAAAAAAKRs/MPsuwErFqNc/s1600/IMG_9192.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BdkZBCTPk4A/VSCfDfhrccI/AAAAAAAAKR8/aQ3w7RTYNl4/s1600/IMG_9194.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-BdkZBCTPk4A/VSCfDfhrccI/AAAAAAAAKR8/aQ3w7RTYNl4/s1600/IMG_9194.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zq_4V0-BtIA/VSCfD-B102I/AAAAAAAAKSA/4mb3uEL7TLg/s1600/IMG_9197.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Zq_4V0-BtIA/VSCfD-B102I/AAAAAAAAKSA/4mb3uEL7TLg/s1600/IMG_9197.jpg" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Maddux - You will be such an amazing brother. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I already know you will have your baby brother laughing up a storm with all your silly jokes :) </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You already have your mom and dad cracking up on a daily basis. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I look forward into seeing you jump into this new role of big brother... </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
and without a doubt... I know you will be the best big brother, Hudson is already so lucky to have you. </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Love, </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Mom</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-41115861392014343092015-03-23T18:25:00.002-05:002015-06-03T08:21:29.013-05:00Basement Update - Theater Room... ProgressSo this room started out looking like...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w6MoR29aHC8/VP9a4T-VXxI/AAAAAAAAKIU/4qS9DzsScUw/s1600/movie%2Broom%2Bbeginning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-w6MoR29aHC8/VP9a4T-VXxI/AAAAAAAAKIU/4qS9DzsScUw/s1600/movie%2Broom%2Bbeginning.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Lovely :)<br />
<br />
And then... a little better<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nSt0FkT_i0s/VP9dJCPqgPI/AAAAAAAAKIg/fs_z4Pu04l0/s1600/movie%2Broom%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nSt0FkT_i0s/VP9dJCPqgPI/AAAAAAAAKIg/fs_z4Pu04l0/s1600/movie%2Broom%2B2.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Jerry has always wanted his own movie room.<br />
But not anything with movie theater seating... just somewhere we could hang out as a family... and veg out and watch movies.<br />
<br />
So this past Christmas I got him a movie projector and screen... and it all began :)<br />
<br />
We have been working on the basement on and off for the past few years... just an extra area that wasn't a necessity since the rest of the house needed so much work... but I am happy to say I love having this movie room down there. We have a lot of fun on family movie nights... eating popcorn and just hanging out watching movies... :)<br />
<br />
This room isn't close to being done... however, it has made A LOT of progress over the past few months. It's still pretty plain. But it's functional. Jerry has a few things he wants to put down in here... and I promised I would let him do what he wants... (I'm a little worried)<br />
<br />
Here is where the room is today..<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3GEG4H5it3s/VRCfNCYfmFI/AAAAAAAAKKE/MtY0d9zhXYI/s1600/theater1-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3GEG4H5it3s/VRCfNCYfmFI/AAAAAAAAKKE/MtY0d9zhXYI/s1600/theater1-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YyovpBx5hR0/VRCfNqBhm5I/AAAAAAAAKKI/trj3qBaK7aE/s1600/theater2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-YyovpBx5hR0/VRCfNqBhm5I/AAAAAAAAKKI/trj3qBaK7aE/s1600/theater2-1.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N-1Wm2uZJu4/VRCfNi4p4FI/AAAAAAAAKKM/FZWO4ZdNhqo/s1600/theater3-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="424" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-N-1Wm2uZJu4/VRCfNi4p4FI/AAAAAAAAKKM/FZWO4ZdNhqo/s1600/theater3-1.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jnWxejhAJCk/VRCfOs_vjiI/AAAAAAAAKKc/AEku5CLCe28/s1600/theater4-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jnWxejhAJCk/VRCfOs_vjiI/AAAAAAAAKKc/AEku5CLCe28/s1600/theater4-1.jpg" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
To Do List<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><strike>Put up door to storage area</strike></li>
<li>Let Jerry decorate... try very hard to not wince and roll my eyes when he tries to convince me we need a cardboard cut out of... Rambo.</li>
<li>caulk and paint trim</li>
<li>cut in and fix the few painting mishaps down there.... </li>
<li>buy rug for kiddos to play on</li>
<li>build shelf for Jerry's <strike>toys</strike> Memorabilia</li>
<li>coffee table </li>
<li>build a long table along the backside of the couch with bar stools for kids to snack and watch movies </li>
<li>build low media center for blue ray player that is currently just sitting on the floor :) </li>
</ul>
<div>
So as you can see... The room still has quite a bit of changes to go through... and I am hoping we can get a few knocked off our to do list in the next few months. However, Hudson's arrival date is sneaking up on us... and realistically I am not sure what will get done and what will be pushed back.<br />
But at least for now the room is functional... and we are loving spending weekends down there watching movies and eating popcorn! </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdraft.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D4549794981885625723%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D4111586139201434309%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dallposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dallposts%3BpostNum%3D1%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F1.bp.blogspot.com%252F-w6MoR29aHC8%252FVP9a4T-VXxI%252FAAAAAAAAKIU%252F4qS9DzsScUw%252Fs1600%252Fmovie%25252Broom%25252Bbeginning.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 54px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdraft.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D4549794981885625723%23editor%2Ftarget%3Dpost%3BpostID%3D4111586139201434309%3BonPublishedMenu%3Dallposts%3BonClosedMenu%3Dallposts%3BpostNum%3D1%3Bsrc%3Dlink&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F1.bp.blogspot.com%252F-w6MoR29aHC8%252FVP9a4T-VXxI%252FAAAAAAAAKIU%252F4qS9DzsScUw%252Fs1600%252Fmovie%25252Broom%25252Bbeginning.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 54px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-16525639756868887692015-03-19T15:20:00.000-05:002015-06-03T08:21:47.109-05:00Dealing with the final trimester.... So I remember telling Jerry, after we had Maddux... the second time... I would remember to take more photos. I would be better about documenting...<br />
<br />
Well ... that did not happen ... again<br />
<br />
Unfortunately, I am not one of those girls that finds pregnancy to be this beautiful... glowing.... experience.<br />
Instead.... I feel huge, uncomfortable, emotional, and lazy.<br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong. I am so super excited to be having this little boy. I literally cannot wait for Maddux to meet his baby brother... I am anxious and excited... and looking forward to it more than I can even put into words.<br />
However, this experience is just.. hard.<br />
Everyone wants to tell you their opinions. Whether you ask them or not. And being pregnant, you are already on emotional overload... so the tiniest things just... set you off.<br />
<br />
I hate the weight gain. I hate it even more this time around because I remember how hard it was to get rid of it with Maddux, and I know how much work I am going to have to do this coming spring.<br />
All I want is a bottle of wine and a platter filled with sushi.<br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal">
We are less than 2 months from changing out family drastically. Adding another precious baby boy to our family of three. I find that the closer I get… the more nervous I get… the more I worry. It seems this time around… I worry about it more. When Jerry and I were getting ready to have Maddux I didn’t have the fear of what will this do to our marriage… or how this will affect us. But now… with a five year old… I find this thought hovering constantly. How will this change our dynamic? Will Maddux still be excited once he arrives? Will he still call him “his best buddy”?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I feel guilty… and anxious. This pregnancy has made me tired and lazy. Lazier than I have ever been. I let Maddux eat his dinner lately while watching TV rather than at the table… because all I want to do is lay down on the couch. And since it’s just me and him most nights… I don’t have the energy to argue with him over eating everything on his plate. I am not up running around lately… I’m not playing… the weather is nicer and the thought of playing outside makes me want to just curl up under blankets and take a nap. And it’s terrible. I feel like a terrible mom.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I have 6 weeks left with of one on one time with him… and I am spending the majority of it... with my feet up napping on the couch... Watching endless cartoons. I need to be better, take advantage of these last few weeks… get off my butt and spend some time with him. And I give myself this lecture every night after he is in bed… and then the next day comes… and I am exhausted. And I repeat the same mistakes.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PXzRFIE4Baw/VQsuuHy4L5I/AAAAAAAAKJY/SoreEk_S6dM/s1600/pg3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-PXzRFIE4Baw/VQsuuHy4L5I/AAAAAAAAKJY/SoreEk_S6dM/s1600/pg3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
On top of the guilt… I am anxious. And worried. And a thousand other emotions. I have had 5 years of one on one time with Maddux. I know him… really know him. I love the age gap already… because it gave me time. Time with him. And for me… it’s what I wanted. But it’s hard to imagine adding another one to the mix. I love Maddux will all my heart… how am I going to love another kid like this?<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Lots of mom’s I know have had the same feelings… apparently its common. And they say… it just happens. Which makes sense right? I am not a girl that believed in love at first sight until I had Maddux. and even though I loved him before he was physically here… while he was in my belly. The day he was born… The moment that I saw him… was… in fact true love at first site. An overwhelming emotion… of instantly just worrying about this tiny tiny human…. More than yourself. It happens instantaneously. Its something you don’t understand… until it happens. And that is what I imagine happens the second time around…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I worry about wasting these next few weeks giving into being lazy. Because on one hand… yes, it is important to rest when you are pregnant… on the other hand… you want to spend time with your kid before you change his whole world.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I thought unwanted pregnancy advice was bad with Maddux… I can tell you what is worse… the second time pregnancy/family comments. I get so many negative comments on waiting 5 years. And like most of us know… these comments come from people closest to us. It’s just the way it goes sometimes. I get told that Maddux is going to have a hard time sharing… isn’t going to adjust to having a baby easily… etc. etc. I get told that “aren’t you worried they won’t be close since there is 5 years between them” And… before I even have this one here… in my arms “are you going to try again… this time for a girl?”</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I hate these questions/comments. And you are already tired and crabby when pregnant. So these comments… no matter if they mean well or not… get to you. <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OnvQoKgCsMQ/VQsu1w77vbI/AAAAAAAAKJg/z6crCxAuhmA/s1600/pg2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OnvQoKgCsMQ/VQsu1w77vbI/AAAAAAAAKJg/z6crCxAuhmA/s1600/pg2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I don’t think Maddux is going to have a hard time sharing. So I chalk that up to… well they don’t know my kid like I do… so what does it matter. The other night Maddux went through all his toys in his room without me knowing… and put a pile of toys in the nursery. I didn’t notice the night he did it. So I asked him about it the following night… if he was playing in the baby’s room. And he said… “No mom, I was giving Hudson my baby toys… since I am a big boy I don’t need those anymore. But Ill share my big boy toys with him if he wants” So I'm not too worried about sharing. He shares with his cousins… no problem at all. I would worry if Hudson could wear the superhero costumes… but since he will be way too small to care… we wont have any issues there <span style="font-family: Wingdings;">J</span><o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<span style="font-family: Wingdings;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And as stated above… I chose this age gap. I always said I wanted my kids 4-6 years apart. It’s what makes sense for us… as a family. People make this choice off what works for them. So those people that choose a 1-2 year gap. Or 3 year gap… great! Or If you choose a 7 year gap… great! I really don’t see how people find this to be something to comment on. I know that a lot of people plan for their kids to be 2-3 years apart. Which is great. And my family members have had their kids this age apart... and its a great age difference. And I know they wouldn't choose any differently.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
But different things work for different people. I wanted more time with Maddux. I have enjoyed having 5 years solely focused on him.... and spending this time undivided getting to know him. And for me... Financial reasons play a role. I want time between them... so I can plan accordingly as far as daycare pricing... college tuition's...etc, etc. But again, people want to take your plan and compare it to theirs... and then tell you why their choice is right... but yours is wrong. I always choose to make decisions on what is best for us. I try very hard to not rush into things.... take my time... and not make a decision because that's what others do around me. And sometimes its hard... but with age... and experience... I have learned that what works well for others...doesn't always work for me. And I need to take a step back and focus on that. The other day at work, a woman I work with Veronica asked me how old my first was… and I said 5.. and I braced myself for the comment of… “wow five years apart”… but instead she replied with “that’s the perfect age to add another one.” And it took everything out of me not to hug her and thank her ... for just being kind.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
"Are you going to try for a girl" question. I really hate this question. No. I’m not. We might try for a third kid… we aren’t sure yet. We aren’t sure where we are…. But when we try for that 3<sup>rd</sup>. I will not be hoping for a girl over hoping for a boy. I love having a boy. I was scared at first when finding out about Maddux. Boys are foreign to me… they play different… they like different things.. and I worried “what I would be able to teach or bond with when having a boy” and five years later… its amazing. Its truly amazing. I won’t always be the center of his world… but for now I soak up in the bond between mother and son. Because its amazing. I am told every single day that I am his beautiful princess… and I get bouquets of dandelions…. And kisses and snuggles… and he is so animated and creative… and I have loved getting to learn about superheroes and the complete wonder of all things dinosaurs. I can’t wait to do it all over again with the next one. Little boys love their Momma’s there is some truth to Momma’s boy and it’s something I wouldn’t trade for anything. I feel lucky that I get to have 2 boys… and if I tried for the third… I would be just as lucky to get another boy as I would be to have a daughter. I don’t “have” to have a girl. I just “have” to have… healthy happy kids.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
I look forward to having boys... The bond between them... Maddux gets to teach his baby brother how to throw a baseball, play basketball, teach him everything he knows about super heroes. I cant wait to see the interaction of all things boy.... and I am excited to see Hudson as an individual. In what ways will he be like Maddux.... and in what ways will he be different. I cant wait to see these two boys... and their uniqueness from each other... just as much as I cant wait to see the likeness between the two. And plus now with my 3 boys in my life... I am just solidifying my place as princess....</div>
<br />
Just 6 more weeks... and I might start feeling like myself again... well an exhuasted version of myself. And if any of you want to visit in 6+ weeks and bring me a bottle of wine and plate of sushi... I think we might just be best friends forever.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1ExqwolbJPk/VQsvBy7A8tI/AAAAAAAAKJo/JTY4q30qXfU/s1600/pg1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1ExqwolbJPk/VQsvBy7A8tI/AAAAAAAAKJo/JTY4q30qXfU/s1600/pg1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-58808451880685668132015-03-10T15:52:00.001-05:002015-03-10T15:53:59.845-05:00Basement Update _ Wine BarI am finally back with a basement update!<br />
After the holidays... and nursery planning... and pure laziness that comes along with being pregnant.. And this week we took a break from the nursery. We have one more area to complete... and I am still undecided so while I figure it out... We are back at it on the basement.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
We left with the to list of... </div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
1. put the doors on the Ikea cabinets and buy hardware</div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
2. paint the shelf that will hold the glassware</div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
3. paint all the wood framing out the cabinets and wine storage</div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
4. add a wood shelf to the bottom of each window</div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
5. finish the rock wall</div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
6. add another coat to the walls.<br />
7. paint the window panes<br />
8. put up trim and doors in the basement<br />
9. add wine glass storage in the open shelves</div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
<br /></div>
The last update I gave you on the basement the wine bar was looking like this...<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Bsn7Kc2F0c/VP0Oqs7F3-I/AAAAAAAAKHA/rgzHeGttrsY/s1600/basement%2B4-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-4Bsn7Kc2F0c/VP0Oqs7F3-I/AAAAAAAAKHA/rgzHeGttrsY/s1600/basement%2B4-1.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
It was coming together... but still pretty much a GIANT mess :)<br />
<br />
And now our updated list<br />
<br />
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
1. <strike>put the doors on the Ikea cabinets and</strike> buy hardware</div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
2. <strike>paint the shelf that will hold the glassware</strike></div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
3. <strike>paint all the wood framing out the cabinets and wine storage</strike></div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
4. add a wood shelf to the bottom of each window</div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
5. <strike>finish the rock wall</strike></div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
6. <strike>add another coat to the walls.</strike><br />
7. <strike>paint the window panes</strike><br />
8. <strike>put up trim and doors in the basement</strike><br />
9. <strike>add wine glass storage in the open shelves</strike></div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
<strike><br /></strike></div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
So after completing 95% of the original to do list... I am excited to show you the "almost" finished project which was heavily inspired by <a href="http://jennasuedesign.blogspot.com/2014/03/kitchen-chronicles-building-bar.html">Jenna Sue</a></div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zmhEZbGXOQY/VP9XNUl5dcI/AAAAAAAAKHY/CbhgnPoHgww/s1600/basement%2Bwine%2Bbar%2B2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-zmhEZbGXOQY/VP9XNUl5dcI/AAAAAAAAKHY/CbhgnPoHgww/s1600/basement%2Bwine%2Bbar%2B2-1.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kU8WPI5O4fk/VP9XNu8YdOI/AAAAAAAAKHc/KmPsixjrD1U/s1600/basement%2Bwine%2Bbar%2B3-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kU8WPI5O4fk/VP9XNu8YdOI/AAAAAAAAKHc/KmPsixjrD1U/s1600/basement%2Bwine%2Bbar%2B3-1.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-88IfF_1ptRY/VP9XNZcIj2I/AAAAAAAAKHU/3anHbsjAMm4/s1600/basement%2Bwine%2Bbar%2B4-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-88IfF_1ptRY/VP9XNZcIj2I/AAAAAAAAKHU/3anHbsjAMm4/s1600/basement%2Bwine%2Bbar%2B4-1.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BiJup9Tnmgo/VP9XOWvLDII/AAAAAAAAKHs/FcM-8Nj4rdQ/s1600/basement%2Bwine%2Bbar%2B5-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-BiJup9Tnmgo/VP9XOWvLDII/AAAAAAAAKHs/FcM-8Nj4rdQ/s1600/basement%2Bwine%2Bbar%2B5-1.jpg" height="456" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
And just a quick reminder where we originally started at...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QSSEA9TtXF8/VP9ZUcTYmgI/AAAAAAAAKII/imfTXEbnucI/s1600/beginning%2Bbeginning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-QSSEA9TtXF8/VP9ZUcTYmgI/AAAAAAAAKII/imfTXEbnucI/s1600/beginning%2Bbeginning.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
Which led to...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5KYj_4nBwgY/VP9Y8DtKEkI/AAAAAAAAKIA/NvfSVGt7zBI/s1600/wine%2Bbar%2Bbeginning.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5KYj_4nBwgY/VP9Y8DtKEkI/AAAAAAAAKIA/NvfSVGt7zBI/s1600/wine%2Bbar%2Bbeginning.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
And now...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q_d28OWydiU/VP9XOp9lH8I/AAAAAAAAKH4/gqimlRAk-xM/s1600/basement%2Bwine%2Bbar-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-q_d28OWydiU/VP9XOp9lH8I/AAAAAAAAKH4/gqimlRAk-xM/s1600/basement%2Bwine%2Bbar-1.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
I love this little area. It is a great area to set up for when we have people over... or movie nights in the basement. The rock tile we added is by far my favorite focal point in the entire basement and I love how it turned out. </div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
We still have some small finishing touches to add to this space... but for now... we are calling this project done and moving onto the other rooms we have down here.<br />
(Don't mind the dirty windows... once the snow melts... Ill get out there and clean them off)<br />
We still need to style those shelves and add in a few things here and there which I am sure once the basement moves along we will get those things finished too... Right now the few glasses I had in a cabinet came out and just kind of... set there. randomly.<br />
We also need to purchase some blinds... watching movies down here during the day is quite impossible. We need to be able to block out the light! </div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
We are currently trying to finish up the movie room and play room. </div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
At first we weren't going to include a playroom down here... but after a few nights of watching movies... we quickly realized that with soon to be two kids... this was unrealistic. We needed an area for them to play. </div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
We have two decent sized areas that need quite a bit of work... I plan on sharing some photos of where we are with them.. and our plans going forward. I am sure as our lives change and the boys get bigger this area will grow with us as a family.. but for right now... I realize an art station, lego station, and superhero station are necessities :) </div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
We are going on 2 years of working on the basement off and on. I am happy to say we are closing in on some decent progress for once. </div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
Do you have any projects you have put off? </div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
Do you get bored and move onto the next like we do? </div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
Starting a project and finishing it ... is one of the hardest things to do. Getting it like 90% there... and losing interest seems to be my trend. and going back months later and finally finishing up... :) </div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
<br /></div>
<div style="color: #5a5755; font-family: georgia; font-size: 14px; line-height: 22.464000701904297px;">
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-61700515308100083262015-03-06T15:47:00.000-06:002015-03-10T15:54:08.307-05:00Hudson's Room - Part Three I am back with another small update on Hudson's Nursery!<br />
<br />
So I left off with showing you the reading corner <a href="http://alwayschasinglife.blogspot.com/2015/02/hudsons-nursery-part-two-beginning-of.html">Here</a>.<br />
And while I work on filling those empty frames I thought I would share with you the wall across the room from that area.<br />
<br />
I am usually off and on with the whole accent wall thing. I went back and forth on painting Hudson's walls all dark (I'm on a dark wall kick lately) and I wasn't sure if that was the route I wanted to go or not. So we decided to just do one dark wall. And I LOVE it.<br />
<div>
<br />
Above the crib I DIY'd some artwork. I searched all over Etsy and came up with 3 quotes that I liked... and then asked Jerry to choose.<br />
<br />
He likes this quote because for some reason... it reminds him of superman. :)<br />
<br />
So I got out some stencils and a couple plywood boards and started painting.<br />
Its not perfect, especially if you get up close. But i ended up really liking the end result.<br />
Jerry framed it out with stained 1x2 boards and then we attached them to the wall.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lo43PCmjVOE/VPn8dDgYNwI/AAAAAAAAKFg/8pUQYVEGB3I/s1600/Hudson%2Bwall%2Bart%2B2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-lo43PCmjVOE/VPn8dDgYNwI/AAAAAAAAKFg/8pUQYVEGB3I/s1600/Hudson%2Bwall%2Bart%2B2-1.jpg" height="578" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxJYx2iGJZU/VPn8dCMpIZI/AAAAAAAAKFk/fSQvbvm7pWk/s1600/Hudson%2Bwall%2Bart%2B3-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jxJYx2iGJZU/VPn8dCMpIZI/AAAAAAAAKFk/fSQvbvm7pWk/s1600/Hudson%2Bwall%2Bart%2B3-1.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CisdzqFqMKs/VPn8eDRtDFI/AAAAAAAAKFw/Lu2RX_VgRxU/s1600/Hudson%2Bwall%2Bart%2B4-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CisdzqFqMKs/VPn8eDRtDFI/AAAAAAAAKFw/Lu2RX_VgRxU/s1600/Hudson%2Bwall%2Bart%2B4-1.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And you can see a glimpse of the green armoire we redid. I am hoping to put a few finishing touches on it and share this next week. A sneak peak of my favorite part.... the map knobs. Aren't they cute?<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J4wEt1Q19II/VPn8eOlq0II/AAAAAAAAKF0/M4rrXN7sOhQ/s1600/Hudson%2Bwall%2Bart%2B5-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-J4wEt1Q19II/VPn8eOlq0II/AAAAAAAAKF0/M4rrXN7sOhQ/s1600/Hudson%2Bwall%2Bart%2B5-1.jpg" height="472" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Up next we are working on the changing table area.<br />
<br />
I am loving the idea of a simple shelf... or baskets as storage... or buntings... or mobiles.<br />
I haven't completely decided what I wanted to do over there. A few inspiration photos I have collected are ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WH5qAeyHy8k/VPoei5d-wuI/AAAAAAAAKGQ/XiiiZAzYxBA/s1600/ct1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-WH5qAeyHy8k/VPoei5d-wuI/AAAAAAAAKGQ/XiiiZAzYxBA/s1600/ct1.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0VbRhzZ63cc/VPoei_rb-CI/AAAAAAAAKGU/2mRBa4RibT0/s1600/ct2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-0VbRhzZ63cc/VPoei_rb-CI/AAAAAAAAKGU/2mRBa4RibT0/s1600/ct2.jpg" height="640" width="425" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZNRXzYNiV1E/VPoei70nbWI/AAAAAAAAKGM/QbskftC4UUY/s1600/ct3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ZNRXzYNiV1E/VPoei70nbWI/AAAAAAAAKGM/QbskftC4UUY/s1600/ct3.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
I am really leaning towards the mobile or bunting above the changing pad... Hopefully we can decide on a plan this weekend. Which inspiration photo is your favorite?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-23575795945453938602015-03-02T23:07:00.000-06:002015-03-02T23:07:21.808-06:00Home Style - Surrounding yourself with things you love.... <span style="background-color: white; color: #5d5d5d; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', 'Book Antiqua', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;">Once in awhile I get questions about inspiration for our home. And to be honest... my "home style" changes as we go. We are adapting to changes in our family... Maddux growing up and now... getting ready to welcome another little one. I have learned that our home has to work for us. </span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #5d5d5d; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', 'Book Antiqua', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;">I love surrounding myself with things that make me happy. Surrounded by smiles and memories. </span><br />
<span style="color: #5d5d5d; font-family: Palatino Linotype, Book Antiqua, Palatino, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;">You won't walk into my house and find an expensive piece of artwork. Instead you will find that almost all of my walls are filled with photos... or quirky signs.... children paintings or doodles.... or some cheap DIY art that probably has a personal meaning behind it. We have a place to put toys in almost every single room. I embrace our family into our "home style" My library shelves are filled with kid art and board games... and I wouldn't change it for one second.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #5d5d5d; font-family: Palatino Linotype, Book Antiqua, Palatino, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #5d5d5d; font-family: Palatino Linotype, Book Antiqua, Palatino, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;">I read a blog, Little Miss Momma and she did a post on "A Beautiful mess Happy Handmade Home" and it inspired me to purchase it. I love the message this book delivers for decorating. 1. Don't be afraid to mess up 2. Our ideas are only starting points and 3. If you love it, love it.</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #5d5d5d; font-family: Palatino Linotype, Book Antiqua, Palatino, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #5d5d5d; font-family: Palatino Linotype, Book Antiqua, Palatino, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;">I realize that my "home style" is not everyone's cup of tea. I have a family member who hates white trim and white kitchens... and for me... there is nothing better than a home filled with white trim... and a big white kitchen to gather around. White scares some moms... I get that. But I find it easy to have white. I can see when its messy... and a quick wipe down takes care of it. For me, white feels clean... and is easy to keep clean and instantly brightens up a home</span></span><br />
<span style="color: #5d5d5d; font-family: Palatino Linotype, Book Antiqua, Palatino, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="color: #5d5d5d; font-family: Palatino Linotype, Book Antiqua, Palatino, serif;"><span style="background-color: white; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;">I especially love this book because it gives you a little quiz before you get started. To get you thinking... and I think if you were to walk through it... it could help all of us out. </span></span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #5d5d5d; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', 'Book Antiqua', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #5d5d5d; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', 'Book Antiqua', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;">1. List all your favorite spaces (stores, restaurants, etc)</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', 'Book Antiqua', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;"><br /></span>
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', 'Book Antiqua', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;"><span style="color: #351c75;">Urban Farmgirl - I love everything about this local store. I could spend hours there.... It is filled with painted furniture, old maps, wood letters, collections of antique items, chalkboards (complete with a local chalkboard artist...who is amazing!), and .... one of my favorite Rockford, IL pillows. This store is what I want my home to feel like... </span></span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', 'Book Antiqua', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kTN-WXkUMD0/VPUjjMQ7u5I/AAAAAAAAKDY/U-GNTG3emC4/s1600/urban%2Bfarmgirl.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kTN-WXkUMD0/VPUjjMQ7u5I/AAAAAAAAKDY/U-GNTG3emC4/s1600/urban%2Bfarmgirl.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></span></div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', 'Book Antiqua', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;"><span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', 'Book Antiqua', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;"><span style="color: #351c75;">Arch Apothecary - I fell in love with the wood floors in this store. I still can't get over how much i love them... mixed in with giant mirrors with huge rustic frames... and then mixed in ... candles...and make up.. its amazing. I want my future bathroom renovation to pull from this store... i want pretty glass counter tops mixed in with rustic wood pieces... and a stack of shiny lip gloss. If you haven't stopped by this store in Rockford... you should take some time this weekend and check it out. <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F26uhUOhQOI/VPUlJTzOnTI/AAAAAAAAKDk/LizXoG--V9s/s1600/arch.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-F26uhUOhQOI/VPUlJTzOnTI/AAAAAAAAKDk/LizXoG--V9s/s1600/arch.jpg" height="266" width="400" /></a></div>
</span></span><span style="background-color: white; color: #351c75; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', 'Book Antiqua', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;"> </span></li>
<li><span style="background-color: white; color: #351c75; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', 'Book Antiqua', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;">Edwards Apple Orchard - Fall is my favorite season and every year I look forward to the opening of Edwards. What is better than mums, pumpkins, apples, fudge, cider donuts, sweet corn salsa, and apple pie topped with cheese? </span></li>
</ul>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kN2fawP3YQA/VPUl1-jjM0I/AAAAAAAAKDs/laF-VfCf_yc/s1600/edwards.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="background-color: white; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', 'Book Antiqua', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-kN2fawP3YQA/VPUl1-jjM0I/AAAAAAAAKDs/laF-VfCf_yc/s1600/edwards.jpeg" height="305" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #351c75; text-align: left;">Land of Nod - I normally cannot justify the prices of this store... although I love walking around and collecting inspiration for the kids bedrooms and playrooms. Ana-white often uses plans from Land of Nod in her kids collections.... and I love seeing it in a show room to get the full effect of what I could do with that furniture mixed in with colorful patterns. It's impossible to not be inspired when you walk through their showrooms...</span></li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YjbBrCh_lYM/VPUmkHSRCHI/AAAAAAAAKD0/5GSaYu0mP_M/s1600/land%2Bof%2Bnod.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-YjbBrCh_lYM/VPUmkHSRCHI/AAAAAAAAKD0/5GSaYu0mP_M/s1600/land%2Bof%2Bnod.jpg" height="298" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: left;">Ikea - pretty much the reason I fell in love with gallery walls. And the amazing things they do with storage.... truly inspirational on how you can personalize the smallest things. I love the bright colors, organization, and budget friendly ideas. Right now our family is growing...and rooms evolve quickly and we are constantly changing so anything to help us budget for something we may outgrow in the next few years... is always a good idea. </li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l6W39ipVt5Q/VPUqlGWobCI/AAAAAAAAKEA/0MoFvDlICk4/s1600/ikea.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-l6W39ipVt5Q/VPUqlGWobCI/AAAAAAAAKEA/0MoFvDlICk4/s1600/ikea.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Jenna Sue Design - I pretty much want her entire house.... starting with her kitchen. Her house is absolutely stunning.if you don't follow her... You should start immediately. I would love to take her combination of white & grey mixed in with rustic charm - and then throw in my ridiculous amounts of family photos plastered all over the house... :) I love pretty much everything she is doing right now...and anxiously await the beginning of her next project. </span></li>
</ul>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W9zDdD0Rckw/VPVAPIb3X2I/AAAAAAAAKEQ/QT-BddaVDFk/s1600/jenna.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-W9zDdD0Rckw/VPVAPIb3X2I/AAAAAAAAKEQ/QT-BddaVDFk/s1600/jenna.jpg" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
<div>
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">2. List the activities you envision doing in each room. </span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Library - Blogging, reading, watching the kids ride their bike on the sidewalk, board games on the floor, Christmas traditions (our tree goes in the library), Christmas morning</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Dining Room - Eating meals together, boardgames with the family, drinking wine and playing cards with friends, going over homework after dinner, family game nights, holiday get togethers</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Kitchen - cooking with Jerry, baking cookies with the kiddos, breakfast around the island, morning coffee alone - before the chaos begins, Nala's favorite spot to hang out, </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Family Room - TV area, Kids and dog play on the rug, Maddux performs in front of TV, sitting by the fireplace, cuddle and watch movies</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Hallway - chalkboard wall decorating, kid stuff drop zone</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Loft - Play room, video games, reading books in the tent, Train table, Lego building, pretend play</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Kid's rooms - Sleep, Desk/Art area, reading books, watching movies, sleepovers with cousins, stuffed animals take over their bedrooms, wrestling</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Master Bedroom - cuddling, getting ready for the day, end of day TV watching, conversations, morning coffee in bed, sleep</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Basement - Movie Theater room - family movie nights, popcorn, treadmill running, work out area, playroom kitchen, bat cave, pretend play, holiday storage, entertaining, parties, hosting area, family game nights</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Back yard - swimming, playing catch, Nala chasing Maddux, garden, sprinklers, collecting worms, picking flowers</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Office - Jer's place to study for grad school, blogging, shopping, printing </span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #351c75;">3. Choose colors that make you feel something</span></div>
<div>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Navy - This color works for everything, It's my favorite color in my closet and easily matches any accent color in my wardrobe or my home. It's my go to color</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Yellow - Happy, Playful, Young</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Turquoise - Trendy, Bright, Vintage feel</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Grey - neutral. Love mixing this in with a bright offset color in my home or wardrobe</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">White - clean, crisp, bright</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Kelly Green - this color... just always makes me happy. I would paint everything Kelly green if Jerry would let me. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Black - dramatic, sophisticated, always in style</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Fuchsia - feminine, playful, needed in a house filled with boys :) </span></li>
</ul>
<div>
<span style="color: #351c75;">4. List 100 things about you. Things you love, quirks, aversions, memories, dreams, etc. </span><br />
<br />
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #351c75;">Photographs_ Thunderstorms_ Sweatpants_ Messy Hair_ Scrabble_ Lip Gloss_ Action Movies_ Cuddling_ Messy Beds_ Maddux Giggles_ Good Morning Hugs_ Flavored Coffee_ Funny Coffee Table Books_ Fountain Cokes_ Disney_ Fall Boots _ Hoodies_ Margaritas_ Saturday Morning Family Cuddles in Bed Watching Cartoons_ Twinkle Lights_ Scared of Grasshoppers_ Summer Braids_ Kid Crafts_ Home-made Cards_ Cupcakes_ Greek Salads_ Subway Tile_ Ceramic Animals_ Gallery Walls_ Cocoa Wheats_ Summer Nights_ Lighting Bug Catching_ Musty Basements_ Barn Wood_ Apple Pie With Cheese_ Paper Garland_ Kids Books_ Sunday Morning Breakfast after Church_ Running_ Tiny Tattoos_ Weekends with Girlfriends_ Family Game Nights_ Niece Sleepovers_ Farmers Markets_ Star Wars_ Superheroes_ Work skirts_ V-Neck T-Shirts_ Starbucks_ Handprint Kid Art_ Hot Chocolate_ Tulips_ Rocky Beaches_ Watermelon_ Green Smoothies_ Fresh Highlights_ Weekend Living Room Forts_ Summer T-ball _ Chicago Cubs_ Heels_ Tim McGraw_ Throw Pillows_ Flannels_ 80s Rock_ Board Games_ Netflix Marathons_ Sprinkles On Ice Cream_ Fuzzy Socks_ Kids Singing_ Red Vines_ Paul Rudd_ Picnics_ Champagne_Shopping With My Mom_ Pinterest_ Personalized Jewelry_ Building Furniture_ Family Get Togethers_ Laughing so hard, I snort_ Baseball T-shirts_ Aviators_ Nala Kisses_ Road Trips_ Window Seats_ Hydrangeas_ Pineapple_ Instagram_ Home Movies_ Smores_ SidwalkChalk_ All things Christmas_ HomeGoods_ Sledding_ Sweet Tea_ Big Hats_ Euchre_ Candles_ Being Barefoot_ Dandelion Bouquets From Maddux_ Smiling</span></li>
</ul>
</div>
</div>
<div>
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></div>
</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #351c75;">I do believe in surrounding yourself with things that make you happy. So walking through this exercise is fun and helpful. I love pinning beautiful inspiration on pinterest... but when it comes down to it... I need to find design ideas that work for us. We are slowly figuring that out as we go. Our first house has been quite the adventure and I look forward to sharing our projects and ideas along the way. </span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br />Where do you gather inspiration from? </span><br />
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span></div>
<span style="color: #351c75;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: white; color: #5d5d5d; font-family: 'Palatino Linotype', 'Book Antiqua', Palatino, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 21.875px;"><br /></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-70705725475996013252015-02-25T16:07:00.000-06:002015-03-10T15:54:28.754-05:00Hudson's Nursery Part Two - The beginning of a gallery wallLast week I left off with the reading corner we put together. As of right now, Maddux wants to be involved with everything to do with this baby. He will tell me he will feed him, read to him, sing to him, etc. So I thought this corner with the glider... would be a good little reading nook for us to do that. Maddux picked out all his favorite books to put in his brother's room, to share... and I can't tell you how happy it makes me to see him so excited for his "new best buddy" (his words)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6yfJqbSEEjE/VO5Ax7CekVI/AAAAAAAAKC8/hp5850L0zmk/s1600/hudson%2Bnook-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6yfJqbSEEjE/VO5Ax7CekVI/AAAAAAAAKC8/hp5850L0zmk/s1600/hudson%2Bnook-1.jpg" height="400" width="265" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
So the wall space above the bookshelves were looking a little bare.<br />
So we decided to put in a gallery wall. After a trip to Michael's I decided to go with the Lexington frames they have there.<br />
1. Because they were 50% off and<br />
2. We haven't done a gallery wall with black modern frames yet. So I liked the idea of something new.<br />
<br />
A lot of people I talk to are nervous about gallery walls. I love them, I think they are easy and make a huge statement. But I love surrounding myself with things that make me happy... and right now filling these frames with photos of my favorite memories and inspirational quotes.... nothing sounds better than that. I don't put a lot of planning into these. I wish I could tell you I sit down with a plan. I look at the space... and run to the store... I try and concentrate on large frames because, when scrolling pinterest at all hours of the night. The one thing the gallery walls I pin have in common are large frames.<br />
Then I start with my largest frame and just work out from there. One frame at a time.<br />
<br />
This past weekend Jerry started putting them up while I would say... "no... a little higher.... no... I don't like that... take that down" for about 3 hours :) He's a good guy :)<br />
<strike>We </strike> I finally settled on a layout of frames mixed in with a few animal heads. .<br />
<br />
The frames are still bare. I need to fill a few of them, but a few I will leave empty because Hudson's baby photos will fill in quite a few of these eventually.<br />
I'm still searching Etsy for some cute personalized prints also.<br />
<br />
But here is the reading corner... all filled in with frames.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jE2yAObkW9g/VO4kLZNoJQI/AAAAAAAAKCE/ILjrqZBXGd8/s1600/hudson%2Bgallery%2B2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-jE2yAObkW9g/VO4kLZNoJQI/AAAAAAAAKCE/ILjrqZBXGd8/s1600/hudson%2Bgallery%2B2-1.jpg" height="436" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tLfJ22Znbz8/VO4kLocAbzI/AAAAAAAAKCI/35qYGOrg5u0/s1600/hudson%2Bgallery%2B3-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tLfJ22Znbz8/VO4kLocAbzI/AAAAAAAAKCI/35qYGOrg5u0/s1600/hudson%2Bgallery%2B3-1.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2qasBvDPcOM/VO4kLxxnvcI/AAAAAAAAKCM/YS4CivZ9Dwo/s1600/hudson%2Bgallery%2B4-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2qasBvDPcOM/VO4kLxxnvcI/AAAAAAAAKCM/YS4CivZ9Dwo/s1600/hudson%2Bgallery%2B4-1.jpg" height="470" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JkmQZAi-KXo/VO4kMHwRL_I/AAAAAAAAKCU/CgV35-5cuMo/s1600/hudson%2Bgallery%2B5-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JkmQZAi-KXo/VO4kMHwRL_I/AAAAAAAAKCU/CgV35-5cuMo/s1600/hudson%2Bgallery%2B5-1.jpg" height="640" width="406" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jDjN9qDjiQc/VO4kNCEAlnI/AAAAAAAAKCo/AEAlFCLVI0Y/s1600/hudson%2Bgallery-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-jDjN9qDjiQc/VO4kNCEAlnI/AAAAAAAAKCo/AEAlFCLVI0Y/s1600/hudson%2Bgallery-1.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ApOeEPuk8x0/VO4kMq5O9gI/AAAAAAAAKCg/nNmvnBUJJ_I/s1600/hudson%2Bgallery%2B6-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ApOeEPuk8x0/VO4kMq5O9gI/AAAAAAAAKCg/nNmvnBUJJ_I/s1600/hudson%2Bgallery%2B6-1.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I might fill in a few more above the chair and bring them down lower. We aren't sure if we want these frames in reach of tiny children though.<br />
<br />
I think my favorite part is the animal heads. I think I could fill a whole wall with them if I had enough!<br />
<br />
Thanks for stopping by, Cant wait to share the other side of the room!<br />
Getting exciting, Hudson will be here in just 2 short months!<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-11472629038011487922015-02-18T22:14:00.000-06:002015-02-18T22:14:37.064-06:0025 Things 1. I am finding it harder and harder to concentrate.<br />
<br />
2. I think pregnancy has given me adult ADD.<br />
<br />
3. I am not one of those people who just... "love" being pregnant.<br />
<br />
4. Its uncomfortable. And exhausting. And nothing fits.<br />
<br />
5. Then you have to go buy clothes that you will only wear for a few more months. Which is a huge waste of money.<br />
<br />
6. I'm a little nervous this time around. Probably more than the first.<br />
<br />
7. Maybe not nervous... well partly nervous... and partly anxious.<br />
<br />
8. What will he look like? Will he look like his brother? Will he look nothing like him? Will they be similar? Will they be opposites? Maybe this one will be a better sleeper... and maybe less picky? At least I can hope...<br />
<br />
9. How will Maddux do with a new brother? Sure right now he is ecstatic... Will that last? Will he get jealous? What can I do to to help him with this transition?<br />
<br />
10. I can't for the life of me finalize my plan on the nursery.<br />
<br />
11. This might be the hardest room we have redone yet.<br />
<br />
12. Only because I keep changing my mind.<br />
<br />
13. We literally painted the whole room. For me to look at my husband and say... I don't like it... I want to change it.<br />
<br />
14. He didn't leave me over it. He might have rolled his eyes. But the next day... he helped me re- paint it.<br />
<br />
15. Because he is amazing.<br />
<br />
16. I'm lucky to have a husband that lets me decorate and doesn't get upset when I decide... "I changed my mind"<br />
<br />
17. Speaking of decorating, I finally bought new furniture for the library.<br />
<br />
18. Once that is delivered, I cant wait to share it with you. I am so excited.<br />
<br />
19. Did I mention that we have to replace our windows this year? Seriously..<br />
<br />
20. Have you sat through window quotes? They aren't fun.<br />
<br />
21. I know it will be worth it though. Completely worth it.<br />
<br />
22. Now trying to fit in when to pay for all new windows, and have a baby all around the same time... talk about fun.<br />
<br />
23. That's life for you though. I guess.<br />
<br />
24. Just have faith it will all work out.<br />
<br />
25. Speaking of faith, what did you all give up for lent? I decided fast food. Because, I know me.. and now that I am reaching that "I am always hungry" phase of pregnancy... fast food is easy. And I don't need to eat that junk. So hopefully this will keep me out of the drive thru line. :)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
And because no post is complete without a photo. Here is Maddux...celebrating his beloved stuffed animal puppy "Candy Butt"'s birthday with all her friends.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r_B4hZclwng/VOVi73gRdQI/AAAAAAAAKBg/CL84IGxSRUs/s1600/candybutt%2Bbday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-r_B4hZclwng/VOVi73gRdQI/AAAAAAAAKBg/CL84IGxSRUs/s1600/candybutt%2Bbday.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-43923626981740585222015-02-17T15:28:00.000-06:002015-03-10T15:54:37.360-05:00Hudson's Nursery. Part One.So, confession. This pregnancy... has made me lazy. I am just not one of those girls that fall in love with being pregnant. I feel miserable. I hate not feeling like myself... and the extra weight... that causes backaches and not being able to sleep. I can't wait for this baby to get here... and I do not want him out until he is good and ready. I just wish I had a fast forward button to help me get through the long work days... waiting on this next chapter to begin. And while I am at it... a slow down button to enjoy a little bit more one on one time with Maddux before his whole world is turned upside down.<br />
<br />
But the past month or so we have been back at it... sadly we have so much to catch up on... its been hard to blog about. Everything is about 70% there and we need to find a few hours to finish up a few projects.<br />
<br />
So in the middle of all the chaos I thought I would share with you all step by step our nursery for Hudson.<br />
We started with an empty room that just collected random things... keeping it honest with the before photo. Actually not honest. This room was FILLED with random furniture, toys, baby gear, etc.<br />
<br />
This room hasn't been touched since we moved in. The walls are off white and it all has honey oak trim. So we started there. We ended up painting 3 walls a very light grey.. and 1 wall a dark navy blue.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ESlZefTouis/VOLRIt1vBUI/AAAAAAAAKAo/zjH1qiM-m2E/s1600/hudson%2Bbeginning-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ESlZefTouis/VOLRIt1vBUI/AAAAAAAAKAo/zjH1qiM-m2E/s1600/hudson%2Bbeginning-1.jpg" height="320" width="212" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
We haven't completely settled on a theme yet.<br />
We have an idea... sort of. And we figured we would just go from there.<br />
I just gave a few pieces of furniture a bright coat of paint that I will share soon. But for now... we added this little corner I thought I would share.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bHtpGS3pCNk/VOLRI8-bphI/AAAAAAAAKAs/NVuDQYZ3T5k/s1600/hudson%2Bnook%2B2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-bHtpGS3pCNk/VOLRI8-bphI/AAAAAAAAKAs/NVuDQYZ3T5k/s1600/hudson%2Bnook%2B2-1.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sh5oejTaWfA/VOLRJUUKAAI/AAAAAAAAKA0/hqbIhN6qJ58/s1600/hudson%2Bnook-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Sh5oejTaWfA/VOLRJUUKAAI/AAAAAAAAKA0/hqbIhN6qJ58/s1600/hudson%2Bnook-1.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
It doesn't look like much yet... but to be honest we have put HOURS of work into this room. If you notice in the before photo, all the trim was still honey oak. So we primed and painted the trim. Painted the walls. and then built these shelves for the books.<br />
<br />
We hung the books lower so they are in arms reach from the chair. Maddux is constantly telling me how he is going to sit with us in the chair and read to his brother while he is fed. So I figure as long as everything is in reach... Ill save myself from getting all settled for him to decide he wants a book on the top shelf;)<br />
<br />
I am going back and forth on what I want to do in that blank area above the glider/shelves.<br />
<br />
Right now I am leaning towards a corner gallery wall. Like so.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ILTMDI-VoN8/VOLaTwOYQiI/AAAAAAAAKBI/nsB3qBF5nGY/s1600/corner%2Bgallery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ILTMDI-VoN8/VOLaTwOYQiI/AAAAAAAAKBI/nsB3qBF5nGY/s1600/corner%2Bgallery.jpg" height="400" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
I'm a little worried it might get too busy.<br />
But then I came across this ...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j6Res0Qsmew/VOLaecGQ5jI/AAAAAAAAKBQ/meZ0H9pqZyw/s1600/gallery%2Bbooks.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-j6Res0Qsmew/VOLaecGQ5jI/AAAAAAAAKBQ/meZ0H9pqZyw/s1600/gallery%2Bbooks.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
And the gallery wall above the shelves doesn't bother me... so maybe it might work.<br />
<br />
We are working on the nursery all week. So I figured I would share with you our thought process and how we decide to build upon it layer by layer.<br />
<br />
Who knows though in the next 24 hours I could completely change my mind. But for now... I am thinking about trying out my first corner gallery wall. I am having such a hard time with this room. I don't know if pregnancy is affecting my brain... or I am putting pressure on myself because I realize the days of me picking out stuff is so short lived and pretty soon he will be begging for a Dinosaur/superhero/star wars room just like his brother. ;)<br />
<br />
This might be a slow process, but I thought it would be fun to share with you section by section as we completely put together this room, rather than doing a complete before and after shot.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdraft.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D4549794981885625723%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F1.bp.blogspot.com%252F-Sh5oejTaWfA%252FVOLRJUUKAAI%252FAAAAAAAAKA0%252FhqbIhN6qJ58%252Fs1600%252Fhudson%25252Bnook-1.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 141px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1320px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fdraft.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D4549794981885625723%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2Fimages-blogger-opensocial.googleusercontent.com%2Fgadgets%2Fproxy%3Furl%3Dhttp%253A%252F%252F1.bp.blogspot.com%252F-Sh5oejTaWfA%252FVOLRJUUKAAI%252FAAAAAAAAKA0%252FhqbIhN6qJ58%252Fs1600%252Fhudson%25252Bnook-1.jpg%26container%3Dblogger%26gadget%3Da%26rewriteMime%3Dimage%252F*&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 141px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 1320px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-40965928215764548172015-01-21T12:58:00.002-06:002015-03-10T15:54:48.240-05:00Dear MadduxDear Maddux,<br />
<br />
You just turned 5 years old...<br />
<br />
You are becoming more and more independent by the day and its scary for me. I want to protect you. Keep your innocence... keep that sweet soul intact.<br />
I am fearful that public school will harden you. I worry about the affects of other kids. Bullies. Because bullies start young. I don't want them to change you.<br />
<br />
I have a 5 year old boy who loves showing affection. Believes in hugging and kissing his parents... lots of snuggling... lots of I love yous. Days are filled with loving affection, kind words, and sweet... oh so sweet... moments.<br />
<br />
At 5 we had to take you in for your kindergarten exam already. And it got me thinking... worrying... about things out of my control. And I realize ... I am about to begin a hard chapter as a parent. Learning slowly... over time... the older you get... the more I need to sit back and learn to let things work themselves out. Trust in not only myself, but the little man i have raised.<br />
<br />
As a parent, I try so hard to teach you to be kind. Above anything, always be kind. I try and raise the little boy that is nice to everyone. And so far... I have succeeded. I have watched from afar, that you, are kind. So very kind. You go out of your way to give out compliments and affection and I cannot even tell you how proud I am at the age of 5 that you have recognized the importance of being nice.<br />
<br />
I worry so much that the world around us will harden you. It's my biggest fear. Peer pressure has to be most parent's nightmare. Bullies... Bullies at the age of 32 are my biggest fear.<br />
I remember how hard it was when I was a kid, and now with social media I can't imagine how much worse it is. Kids grow up so fast... too fast and I love that right now you are exactly where you should be.<br />
<br />
I hope that we hold onto these days of make believe. The days of you running around the house in super hero costumes fighting imaginary villains. When i watch you... you jump... maybe 3 inches off the ground... and you look at me.. with those bright eyes.... "did you see that mom??? Did you see that?" because you honestly believe you just jumped 4 feet into the are and used black belt ninja moves to take down the red skull.<br />
<br />
I hope we hold onto these days of you lining up all your stuffed animals so that they can all watch your favorite movies along side of you. Where you share your popcorn and whisper to your beloved "candy butt" that this next part... is your "favorite part"<br />
<br />
I hope we hold onto these days where you are constantly making up the lyrics to your own songs about dinosaurs, superheroes, candy butt, and your parents.<br />
<br />
I hope we hold onto these days where your hand drawn T-Rex must be hung up immediately so all people that walk through our home can stop and admire your latest masterpiece. and if they miss it... you make sure you point it out to them.<br />
<br />
I hope we hold onto these days where those art pieces are sometimes so abstract that while I am oohing and ahhing over this incredible new piece of artwork... my heart skips a beat when you say... "what is it?" and i have to try and see what you see... and pray to God i get it right... this time :)<br />
<br />
I hope that we hold onto these days when you want to try anything and everything. You love trying new things: swimming, hockey, volleyball, karate, tumbling, piano, music, basketball, t-ball, soccer. Its so exciting to see you get out there and try something new with a big smile on your face. (after you get over the shock of the first day... the first day is always rough)<br />
<br />
I hope we hold onto these days filled with snuggles and I love yous.<br />
<br />
I hope we hold onto these days of exploration. Days filled with treasure hunts, sword fighting, and avoiding the floor because it's "hot lava"<br />
<br />
You are my idea of perfection. You are smart, adorable, silly, charismatic, confident, shy, dramatic, brave, strong, gentle, loud, rambunctious, outdoorsy - yet not a fan of getting dirty, loves making people laugh, always on the go, always jumping off anything you can climb, so overly excited to become a big brother, will say anything to make a girl say "aww", stubborn, obsessed with all things animals, and always willing to try something new.<br />
<br />
You are growing up so fast little one.<br />
The past five years have come and gone with a blink of an eye.<br />
<br />
Love,<br />
Mom<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-quBciCKYhnQ/VL_2SrNu8QI/AAAAAAAAJ_g/SosUccw4bow/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-quBciCKYhnQ/VL_2SrNu8QI/AAAAAAAAJ_g/SosUccw4bow/s1600/PicMonkey%2BCollage.jpg" height="640" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-36380941429301375332015-01-02T15:52:00.001-06:002015-01-02T15:52:12.143-06:00Thank you 2014. Hello 2015.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<div style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;">
</div>
<br />
<br />
2014 was filled with so many wonderful memories:<br />
<br />
Countless nights playing boardgames<br />
Playing the role of taxi driver for basketball, hockey, t-ball, karate, gymnastics, and swimming lessons.<br />
Blew Bubbles.<br />
Spent a week at Disney World with my boys.<br />
Witnessed my son flirt with princesses. Shamelessly flirt with the princesses.<br />
Painted Easter Eggs.<br />
All or our DIY work was featured on a home tour.<br />
Received a hand wrote bill from a bar<br />
Became a Chicago Cubs Season ticket holder.<br />
Spent the summer watching t-ball, chasing the ice cream truck, lemonade stands, watching fireworks, learning to ride bikes, and days at the zoo.<br />
Joined the work golf league - without knowing how to play golf.<br />
Roasted Marshmallows.<br />
Days spent at apple orchards and pumpkin patches.<br />
Visited a few friends I haven't seen in years...<br />
Spent the day at the horse races.<br />
Witnessed countless sweet exchanges between Maddux and Nala. A bond between a boy and his dog.<br />
Found out we are expecting our second child.<br />
Afters hours upon hours of debate finally agreed on a name.<br />
Spent the holidays surrounded by family and friends.<br />
Sang countless Christmas songs.<br />
Watched Christmas movies outside while drinking hot chocolate.<br />
Went to our first Chicago Bears game.<br />
Watched my Baby Boy turn 5!!!!!<br />
Wrote letters to Santa.<br />
And throughout the whole year... I had a little superhero by my side.<br />
<br />
<iframe frameborder="0" height="640" src="//flipagram.com/f/OSaFZQ2Qd5/embed" width="540"></iframe><br />
<br />
I am excited for all the new adventures and memories to be made in 2015!<br />
I am always big on New Year goals. I love setting goals for myself and I use New Years to start challenging myself on areas I can improve on. I believe in using the New Year as a time of reflection. A reflection of all the good times over the past year... and a reflection of areas we wish to improve on. If we do not challenge ourselves, we cannot improve ourselves.<br />
<br />
2015 goals<br />
1. Finally finish our basement remodel. Completely. We are about 50% there right now. and I am hoping we can get this done by March.<br />
2. Limit my social media time.<br />
3. Be Kind. Learn to actually follow the rule of if you have nothing nice to say don't say anything at all. No matter what.<br />
4. Make my bed everyday. (this one is going to be hard)<br />
5. Start recycling<br />
6. Monthly dates (even dates at home)<br />
7. Cook a new meal we havent tried once a month.<br />
8. Learn to not be so hard on myself. Accept and own my mistakes.<br />
9. Read one book a month.<br />
10. Make new family traditions (we have a few new ones in mind... to start this year)<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/43/bc/19/43bc1960bbd85cf647fd93e2f386bf42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt=""May your coming year be filled with magic & dreams and good madness. I hope you read some fine books and kiss someone who thinks you're wonderful, and don't forget to makes some art - write or draw or build or sing or live as only you can. And I hope somewhere in the next year, you surprise yourself". - Neil Gaiman" border="0" height="640" src="http://media-cache-ak0.pinimg.com/736x/43/bc/19/43bc1960bbd85cf647fd93e2f386bf42.jpg" width="408" /></a></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-76434442350573376152014-11-19T06:54:00.001-06:002014-11-19T06:54:21.826-06:00Updated basementWe have been working away at the basement, it has been a very frustrating process/<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We last left off with the basement looking like this.... and the area we have been working on is that corner area to the left... </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xcW91lzvJZ8/VGySvN1zKnI/AAAAAAAAJ74/ACg0riDnorc/s1600/basement%2Bfloor2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-xcW91lzvJZ8/VGySvN1zKnI/AAAAAAAAJ74/ACg0riDnorc/s1600/basement%2Bfloor2-1.jpg" height="212" width="320" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Since then we started working on the nook in the far corner of the basement. We decided this space could easily be used as a serving area/wine bar/etc. etc. It would be a great place for us to place the food and drinks at family gatherings... </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
So we made a stop at Ikea and took around the "as-is"section for some cabinets. We found a couple that were marked 50% off and started from there. We continued filling in this section with the wine fridge and built a shelf unit to store glassware or whatever ends up going there. </div>
<div>
We took 2x4s to build the table top and decided to put in rock tile across the back of the wall. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This area still has a ways to go... but its finally shaping into what we had in mind... so I thought I would share an "In progress" photo. Don't mind the mess... we are still in the middle of this project...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zft4K3Zi4s4/VGyR7D4k1_I/AAAAAAAAJ7Y/X1wS5bnHJ3c/s1600/basement%2B1-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Zft4K3Zi4s4/VGyR7D4k1_I/AAAAAAAAJ7Y/X1wS5bnHJ3c/s1600/basement%2B1-1.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8VQqbUGbI4k/VGyR8OKjR7I/AAAAAAAAJ7g/XGRSxy-8Msc/s1600/basement%2B2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8VQqbUGbI4k/VGyR8OKjR7I/AAAAAAAAJ7g/XGRSxy-8Msc/s1600/basement%2B2-1.jpg" height="640" width="418" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X87sF6biNmY/VGyR9LtCyfI/AAAAAAAAJ7o/foCTw0NY4K8/s1600/basement%2B3-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-X87sF6biNmY/VGyR9LtCyfI/AAAAAAAAJ7o/foCTw0NY4K8/s1600/basement%2B3-1.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tDOaUOm5xLo/VGyR9wUXsuI/AAAAAAAAJ7s/_gZOqHa5GYI/s1600/basement%2B4-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-tDOaUOm5xLo/VGyR9wUXsuI/AAAAAAAAJ7s/_gZOqHa5GYI/s1600/basement%2B4-1.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
We still have a few things to do. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
1. put the doors on the Ikea cabinets and buy hardware</div>
<div>
2. paint the shelf that will hold the glassware</div>
<div>
3. paint all the wood framing out the cabinets and wine storage</div>
<div>
4. add a wood shelf to the bottom of each window</div>
<div>
5. finish the rock wall</div>
<div>
6. add another coat to the walls.<br />
7. paint the window panes<br />
8. put up trim and doors in the basement<br />
9. add wine glass storage in the open shelves<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
But at least its to a point where I see it coming together. Slowly but surely. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
The basement itself is far from being done. but at least this small little corner is shaping up nicely. </div>
<div>
The rest of it... is still quite a mess... </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-36462855576127248192014-11-04T15:18:00.000-06:002014-11-04T15:18:08.143-06:00Baby Number 2 Due in May 2015!The blog has been pretty quiet the past few weeks...<br />
<br />
In case you missed our big announcement on Facebook...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-slXkn-OIm-M/VFlCSfgLFsI/AAAAAAAAJ6g/w09-a9Xrtx8/s1600/pic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-slXkn-OIm-M/VFlCSfgLFsI/AAAAAAAAJ6g/w09-a9Xrtx8/s1600/pic.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
So... I have been slacking on the blog.<br />
<br />
Because I am tired. So tired.<br />
This pregnancy is kicking my butt. I am finally starting to feel a little bit like myself again.<br />
Just a little bit. But hopefully this is the turning point... and I will soon have enough energy to at least see 8 pm on a week day. Fingers Crossed.<br />
<br />
We could not be more excited about baby number 2!<br />
Thank you all for your kind words on Facebook. Maddux is absolutely thrilled to become a big brother.<br />
He is even more thrilled that now... "He gets to be the boss of someone... finally"<br />
... or so he thinks ;)<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-15897573569730473762014-09-29T07:52:00.000-05:002014-09-29T07:52:47.608-05:00Bedroom InspirationWe have been slowly but surely working on the basement... and meanwhile... I started planning out the bedroom changes.<br />
<br />
So here are a few photos we are drawing inspiration from....<br />
<br />
I am loving this simple X based table... maybe a vanity bench used also as a nightstand?<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Phxs7azE-RM/VCjEmLXNREI/AAAAAAAAJ5E/OArg0rU9G0Y/s1600/i%2Bwant%2Bthis.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Phxs7azE-RM/VCjEmLXNREI/AAAAAAAAJ5E/OArg0rU9G0Y/s1600/i%2Bwant%2Bthis.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
I am obsessed with navy bedroom walls...<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eDnb1mL8LHs/VCjEmF1jzHI/AAAAAAAAJ5I/7npLLVRe_Ns/s1600/navy%2Bbedroom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-eDnb1mL8LHs/VCjEmF1jzHI/AAAAAAAAJ5I/7npLLVRe_Ns/s1600/navy%2Bbedroom.jpg" height="640" width="634" /></a></div>
<br />
Something about this rustic floor to ceiling headboard... or the black nightstand... or the chairs with the weathered ottoman... I just love the feel of this room.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dL41rPbhxVg/VCjDV4Sw73I/AAAAAAAAJ4A/B6r-79vfA5s/s1600/bedroom%2B3%2Bnightstand%2Bdark.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-dL41rPbhxVg/VCjDV4Sw73I/AAAAAAAAJ4A/B6r-79vfA5s/s1600/bedroom%2B3%2Bnightstand%2Bdark.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
You know how I feel about gallery walls...<br />
especially around a TV.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RL8DltN3i8Q/VCjDWN4iUzI/AAAAAAAAJ4w/xgcIaGjJPaQ/s1600/bedroom%2Bgallery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-RL8DltN3i8Q/VCjDWN4iUzI/AAAAAAAAJ4w/xgcIaGjJPaQ/s1600/bedroom%2Bgallery.jpg" height="574" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Every single detail about this space on Jenna Sue's blog. Every single tiny detail.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9p1O_D4U264/VCjDWNSfiLI/AAAAAAAAJ4E/J7Vd188RlPs/s1600/bedroom%2Binspir%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-9p1O_D4U264/VCjDWNSfiLI/AAAAAAAAJ4E/J7Vd188RlPs/s1600/bedroom%2Binspir%2B1.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
Media stand in the bedroom?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CKmDTl1stcA/VCjDWsObcAI/AAAAAAAAJ4I/3fxoqyTC77E/s1600/bedroom%2Bmedia.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CKmDTl1stcA/VCjDWsObcAI/AAAAAAAAJ4I/3fxoqyTC77E/s1600/bedroom%2Bmedia.jpg" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
<br />
The sweet rustic bench at the foot of the bed...<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oy1CHrWSTCM/VCjDYIXH7dI/AAAAAAAAJ4k/swulMonBOMg/s1600/rustic%2Bbench.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-oy1CHrWSTCM/VCjDYIXH7dI/AAAAAAAAJ4k/swulMonBOMg/s1600/rustic%2Bbench.jpg" height="640" width="548" /></a></div>
<br />
Again a vanity as a nightstand... seems like the perfect idea :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LuulPJhOzRI/VCjDYl_9gNI/AAAAAAAAJ4o/467AFJE6HYc/s1600/vanity%2Bnightstand.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LuulPJhOzRI/VCjDYl_9gNI/AAAAAAAAJ4o/467AFJE6HYc/s1600/vanity%2Bnightstand.jpg" height="640" width="446" /></a></div>
<br />
So this week we are going to get started on our bedroom space.<br />
I just want to create our own little retreat. Our own little space at the end of the day...<br />
<br />
We will just see what we pull from the inspiration and how it all comes together.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-19762822060124708312014-09-17T21:48:00.000-05:002014-09-17T21:48:08.750-05:00Ikea Wardrobes... and the neglected roomWe have been living in our house for almost 3 years now... and all we have done in our bedroom is built a window seat... and painted the walls.<br />
<br />
Well that is the room we start and end the day with and I am getting tired of not doing anything to that room. So while finishing the basement we decided to start working on this bedroom. Mainly... I think because Jerry is tired of hearing me complain... but even if that is the case.. as long as we do something to this room I will be happy.<br />
<br />
So one thing I have struggled with is how many little nooks we have in our bedroom. the weirdest spots. which brings me to the next topic of Ikea.<br />
<br />
Sometimes, Ikea gets a bad rap. If you go in there and buy the 10 dollar table... well you bought a 10 dollar table and duh... its the quality of... a 10 dollar table. But the thing I love about Ikea is the ability to customize almost anything in there to create something of your own.<br />
Pax wardrobes are great for doing this... whether its creating a custom master closet... or creating a built in wardrobe... its easy to build... and easy on the bank account. win. win.<br />
<br />
So we decided to give this a go...<br />
<br />
So before we start. I thought I would leave you with a few inspiration photos we are pulling from...<br />
so that Jerry can have his own wardrobe... and I can have... well the walk in closet ;)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span id="goog_1778100298"></span><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-vBv4oSNDvW0/VBpFmYtCeSI/AAAAAAAAJ28/O-M2y3VYWZA/s1600/closet1.jpg" height="640" width="424" /><span id="goog_1778100299"></span><span id="goog_1778100300"></span><span id="goog_1778100301"></span><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/"></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_1778100275"></span><span id="goog_1778100278"></span><span id="goog_1778100281"></span><span id="goog_1778100285"></span><span id="goog_1778100292"></span><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-kDTawr1TRb0/VBpFnaEmgWI/AAAAAAAAJ3E/P7QHqd7EFGE/s1600/closet3.jpg" height="640" width="426" /><span id="goog_1778100293"></span><span id="goog_1778100286"></span></a><span id="goog_1778100282"></span><span id="goog_1778100279"></span><span id="goog_1778100276"></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B2ZAeWnKKYs/VBpFoN88SqI/AAAAAAAAJ3M/RCwl4SZwmf8/s1600/closet2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><span id="goog_1778100295"></span><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-B2ZAeWnKKYs/VBpFoN88SqI/AAAAAAAAJ3M/RCwl4SZwmf8/s1600/closet2.jpg" height="640" width="504" /><span id="goog_1778100296"></span></a></div>
<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1778100302"></span><span id="goog_1778100303"></span><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1778100304"></span><span id="goog_1778100305"></span><a href="https://draft.blogger.com/"></a><span id="goog_1778100306"></span><span id="goog_1778100307"></span><br />
<br />
I am hoping to someday in the future redo the master closet using the Pax systems<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fIx4YPiY_2E/VBpHFSkhxcI/AAAAAAAAJ3Y/GrwXFBqPjCI/s1600/closet%2Bmm.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-fIx4YPiY_2E/VBpHFSkhxcI/AAAAAAAAJ3Y/GrwXFBqPjCI/s1600/closet%2Bmm.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iyXabXU3oU8/VBpHGDzmxpI/AAAAAAAAJ3g/tuemO55qjRY/s1600/closet%2Bmm3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-iyXabXU3oU8/VBpHGDzmxpI/AAAAAAAAJ3g/tuemO55qjRY/s1600/closet%2Bmm3.jpg" height="300" width="400" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Every time I walk into pantry... I am immediately looking at closet systems... or cabinets... or anything I can put my own twist on. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We just purchased a Pax closet system and some cabinets for our wine bar in our basement... We always make sure we stop in and check the "as is" section. If you are looking for cabinets.. this is the place to go. You can always find cabinets that were either floor models or dented on the side (who cares if you are putting them between walls) where you will find over 50% off. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We will be back to share with you our newest Ikea customizations very soon. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Meanwhile... what is your favorite thing to shop for at Ikea? </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-42279962458927062012014-09-15T06:43:00.002-05:002014-09-15T06:43:13.020-05:00The last time..Baby books are filled with the first times. The first steps. The first curl. the first tooth. The first words. Etc.<br />
<br />
The other night Maddux fell asleep in my arms. Which hasn't happened in such a long time. As I watched him sleep I looked at him... and all the changes... My little baby that has grown into this energetic... boy. Not a baby... a boy. And I tried remembering the last time he fell asleep in my arms... and my mind just went from there.<br />
<br />
The last time his head was filled with curls?<br />
The last time I fed him his bottle?<br />
The last time I sang him to sleep?<br />
The last time his eyes were blue... before they changed to green?<br />
The last time he called me Mama before... moving to Mommy?<br />
The last time I rocked him to sleep?<br />
The last time he scooted on his butt down the stairs (before he learned to walk them)?<br />
The last time I had to get his shoes on for him?<br />
The last time he mispronounced Chewbaca as Chewyeeeybaaba?<br />
The last time he believed Minnie Mouse was the "prettiest girl in the world"?<br />
<br />
There will be more and more last times as we go throughout this journey.<br />
He is growing up so fast.... and I will take as many glimpses of these moments... these moments... that I know... will soon turn into memories.<br />
<br />
I just want to hang onto these last times a little bit longer.<br />
I just need to remember... even though it takes us ten minutes longer to get out the door because I need to tie his shoes and zip up his coat... that soon....these will join the list of last times... and even these small little moments will be missed...<br />
<br />
Don't get me wrong... I look forward to my son growing up. Being independent and self sufficient. However, I just want to live in these moments of being needed. Before those moments are gone.... Sometimes life is so busy. We rush through things... without realizing just how important those little moments are.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E2NSGMnmMrg/VBbQPAKG2dI/AAAAAAAAJ2o/TzrjAez0fzY/s1600/bathtime1-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E2NSGMnmMrg/VBbQPAKG2dI/AAAAAAAAJ2o/TzrjAez0fzY/s1600/bathtime1-1.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-29523505753828505142014-09-08T22:07:00.002-05:002014-09-08T22:07:43.549-05:00Simple Fall Centerpiece.I love decorating the house for fall. It's something about the coziness that comes along with it.<br />
<br />
Stained dark wood<br />
Pumpkins<br />
Candles<br />
leaves...<br />
<br />
Something so simple... that only takes a few minutes to throw together... makes such a statement :)<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tfiBDEDGxTA/VA5tKl48JWI/AAAAAAAAJ1Y/Zl7OTcw2v3E/s1600/fc1-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tfiBDEDGxTA/VA5tKl48JWI/AAAAAAAAJ1Y/Zl7OTcw2v3E/s1600/fc1-1.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wWfUCADMTiA/VA5tK6YtJ7I/AAAAAAAAJ1c/U0VbK5q09Jw/s1600/fc2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-wWfUCADMTiA/VA5tK6YtJ7I/AAAAAAAAJ1c/U0VbK5q09Jw/s1600/fc2-1.jpg" height="640" width="478" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QNdO9hhETDc/VA5tLna5qHI/AAAAAAAAJ1s/eznLsI9kKq8/s1600/fc3-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QNdO9hhETDc/VA5tLna5qHI/AAAAAAAAJ1s/eznLsI9kKq8/s1600/fc3-1.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XnJj7iuXqYE/VA5tLVKiT_I/AAAAAAAAJ1k/mLNIyFmUZBI/s1600/fc4-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-XnJj7iuXqYE/VA5tLVKiT_I/AAAAAAAAJ1k/mLNIyFmUZBI/s1600/fc4-1.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LfLTKwn-Tuo/VA5tL0nJhkI/AAAAAAAAJ1w/hh6vR4nhUyk/s1600/fc5-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LfLTKwn-Tuo/VA5tL0nJhkI/AAAAAAAAJ1w/hh6vR4nhUyk/s1600/fc5-1.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />
This box was so easily created with a bunch of scrap 1x4's.<br />
Mine is 6 foot long. I mix Dark walnut and grey stain together to come up with the finish.<br />
I also bang up the wood a bit before staining these, by hitting it with a hammer.. or running nails along it... something to give it that worn in look.<br />
Pumpkins were purchased at the dollar store.<br />
Battery candles came from TJ Max.<br />
And the garland of leaves... came from my basement. I thin originally I might have grabbed it at Michael's.<br />
<br />
Not bad for the grand total being under 25 dollars (and the candles were 15 of that)<br />
Luckily... something like this is so easy to swap out for Christmas.<br />
<br />
What is your favorite holiday to decorate for?<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-80410457583983983892014-09-03T13:35:00.000-05:002014-09-03T13:35:15.587-05:00Yep. Another Gallery Wall I might have a problem.<br />
<br />
I love photos. I love capturing moments that make me smile.<br />
And I love filling my walls with my favorite memories.<br />
<br />
Don't worry, we are finishing the basement now... I am pretty sure there will be another gallery wall or two in the future also.<br />
<br />
So, this all started with the pink wood truck I picked up from Urban Farmgirl a few months back. And then I just started collecting random things from there.<br />
This week I stopped by Michaels and they had these wood and metal frames marked down on Clearance... it was meant to be. So I grabbed as many as I thought I would need... and came home and got to work.<br />
<br />
Gallery walls take no rhyme or reason.<br />
I think the trick is... BIG frames.<br />
Gallery walls look better with larger photos. If you don't believe me take a look on Pinterest and the ones that you like and try to figure out what you like about them. For me... its the larger frames mixed in.<br />
So that is my one tip.<br />
<br />
So I started by laying out a few designs on the floor.<br />
and once I was happy with how it was shaping up. I moved to the wall. I usually work my way from the center out. But you can work away however makes sense for you.<br />
The trick is spacing. try and keep the spacing similar between all pieces on your wall. Put things up as if you are working on a grid and try to keep everything in line on some level.<br />
<br />
So after about an hour and a half of putting this all together I ended here.<br />
<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WT2Pgh-lK1s/VAde4i7G6jI/AAAAAAAAJzg/HyapXzJumM0/s1600/gallery%2Bwall%2B2-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-WT2Pgh-lK1s/VAde4i7G6jI/AAAAAAAAJzg/HyapXzJumM0/s1600/gallery%2Bwall%2B2-1.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C2fxdf_7cvk/VAde4UqNxQI/AAAAAAAAJzU/NGFc5fiNxDw/s1600/gallery%2Bwall%2B3-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-C2fxdf_7cvk/VAde4UqNxQI/AAAAAAAAJzU/NGFc5fiNxDw/s1600/gallery%2Bwall%2B3-1.jpg" height="640" width="424" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FihwY9CwTDA/VAde4qI18CI/AAAAAAAAJzY/_nfzGHj9W-M/s1600/gallery%2Bwall%2B4-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-FihwY9CwTDA/VAde4qI18CI/AAAAAAAAJzY/_nfzGHj9W-M/s1600/gallery%2Bwall%2B4-1.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UC6_FwOSx60/VAde5_wiYhI/AAAAAAAAJzk/6rxSKQpR1QU/s1600/gallery%2Bwall%2B5-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-UC6_FwOSx60/VAde5_wiYhI/AAAAAAAAJzk/6rxSKQpR1QU/s1600/gallery%2Bwall%2B5-1.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a8JUpNcW7Rc/VAde6SUsQ9I/AAAAAAAAJz0/FGHIjQ_6VAg/s1600/gallery%2Bwall-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-a8JUpNcW7Rc/VAde6SUsQ9I/AAAAAAAAJz0/FGHIjQ_6VAg/s1600/gallery%2Bwall-1.jpg" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
Oh and another thing. I always work with empty frames, so that I am able to move the frames around and flip them without worrying about the photos inside. So now, the next step will be to fill these frames with some of my favorite moments. Then add some velcro to get a few of those crooked ones all straightened out. I am on the lookout for a few more pieces and/or frames to extend it to the left wall and maybe ceiling to floor. depending on what I find.<br />
<br />
I just ordered a wood print on Groupon... so the sideways family photo is just a spot holder waiting on that to arrive in the mail.<br />
<br />
Can't wait to share with you the finished project! But for now, it's off to a start.<br />
<br />
Do you love gallery walls? Are they easier when you plan them all out? or do you just grab a hammer and nails and go about it?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4549794981885625723.post-12943870945162159362014-08-24T19:46:00.001-05:002014-08-28T17:48:40.169-05:00Patiently... Or Not So Patiently WaitingFew warnings.<br />
1. This post contains a lot of complaining<br />
2. This is probably a read only if you are female type of post.<br />
<br />
So, it's no secret around here we have hopes of expanding our family.<br />
<br />
And with Maddux, it happened so easily. Almost too easy... and I just assumed it would be like that for our second. You can read about struggles we have had... <a href="http://alwayschasinglife.blogspot.com/2014/02/fears.html">here </a>and <a href="http://alwayschasinglife.blogspot.com/2013/12/hate-writing-this-post.html">here</a>.<br />
<br />
We just recently started seriously discussing a sibling. But still... it's been some ... waiting.<br />
I mean, this whole thing is crap. I am one of those people that are not all that in tune with my body. Some people can sense the tiniest thing... I am not one of those people. I have about 12 apps on my phone that are guessing at the "most likely" time frame... and the amazing thing is... they are all different.<br />
<br />
I'm okay with all of it on most days. I figure whatever should happen... will happen. And if I'm meant to only have one kid. I am completely okay with that. Ill leave it up to fate... and just go with it.<br />
I enjoy all this one on one time with Maddux. He will soon be 5 years old.. and these 5 years have been all about him. I have loved being able to give him my undivided attention at all times.<br />
<br />
But trying for a baby is hard. And that week before Aunt flow visits you start second guessing everything. You start looking for signals that aren't there, or misreading normal monthly signals and hoping it means... something else. Reading early pregnancy signs lists online (which let me tell you... those symptoms are the exact same symptoms you get for your period) so every single month you are filled with false hope.. And then you buy 30 pregnancy tests just so you can have a visual reminder... that no... not this month. try again. and now you are sad and out 50 bucks.<br />
It usually takes me that 1 day. That 1 day that I realize... this month is not the month. That day is hard for me. Not hard as in... I weep in my bathroom. But just.. frustrating annoyance for that day... <br />
<br />
I know some people who try getting pregnant and have a hard time seeing pregnant women. Or their friends getting pregnant. And I understand why those people have such a hard time. Because when you want something, and we create a picture in our head... we want that. as soon as possible. Because.. its human nature. I am not to that point, and I hope that never happens. I do want to stop and ask strangers how long it took.... and I want them to tell me... they waited a while.... just to make myself feel better.<br />
<br />
I realize... I am lucky enough to have one kid. There are so many women out there trying and trying.. and they are struggling to even have just the one. So I don't want to come across as selfish. because I understand we all have our struggles. This is just a post complaining about my current struggle.<br />
<br />
I have always wanted my kids farther apart in age.<br />
I have always thought I wanted 2 kids...<br />
but... I have fears of losing another pregnancy.<br />
<br />
So to be honest, I am kind of doing okay...<br />
<br />
Until Maddux hits me with the...<br />
<br />
"Mom, can you make a baby grow in your belly, I want a baby"<br />
And I want so badly to give him what he is asking for. Watching him with my friends baby... I know he would be such a great big brother. Will there be days of fighting... and not getting along if so come the day... absolutely. But he wants a companion. And in that moment... my heart aches. He is on this baby kick lately... and its getting to me. He will put his hand on my belly and ask me if there is a baby brother in there... and I have to tell him No... No honey...Not yet. and he is sad. and looks at me so innocently and says... I just want a baby.<br />
<br />
I know that everything happens for a reason. I believe things work out the way they are supposed to.I just wish... I knew how it would all play out in the end. This sitting around... guessing... wondering... it sucks.<br />
<br />
I just need a crystal ball to tell me where I am this time... next year.<br />
The not knowing is killing me.<br />
<br />
Meanwhile, I find silver linings each month.<br />
I get to spend more time with Maddux. Which in a way I am so thankful for.<br />
Today is just one of those days.... I feel the need to complain.<br />
Try explaining to a 4 year old... that you cant just make a baby grow in your belly.<br />
Because... he literally asks once every 4 days. And I just wish he knew how badly I wish that was the way it worked.<br />
<br />
In other news. I'll leave you with the cutest little boy accepting the ALS challenge to raise awareness :)<br />
<br />
<div id="fb-root">
</div>
<script>(function(d, s, id) { var js, fjs = d.getElementsByTagName(s)[0]; if (d.getElementById(id)) return; js = d.createElement(s); js.id = id; js.src = "//connect.facebook.net/en_US/all.js#xfbml=1"; fjs.parentNode.insertBefore(js, fjs); }(document, 'script', 'facebook-jssdk'));</script><br />
<div class="fb-post" data-href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10101023573387832" data-width="466">
<div class="fb-xfbml-parse-ignore">
<a href="https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?v=10101023573387832">Post</a> by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fawn.teresi">Fawn Teresi</a>.</div>
</div>
<br />
<div>
<br /></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05055655584089883203noreply@blogger.com0