For a Sweet Little Man

One of the sweet ladies, that I worked with in Florida, is expecting her 3rd baby! A little boy. Sonja is the sweetest! And has 2 little boys, that will just melt your heart. Well, I wanted to do something for her. And her little man. For one, she is such a good friend. My closest friend, from Florida. From the beginning, she always invited Paul and I over. For dinner, holidays, just because. Made us feel, like we were part of her family!

But secondly, she sent Matilda the biggest box of goodies. We received it the day we got home from the hospital. With a big box of snacks, movies, and other treats for Paul and I. I told you, she's amazing!!

I've picked out a few little outfits. And a precious picture frame. Sonja loves to have pictures of her family, on her desk at work. But I wanted something more thoughtful. More personal. I got the idea to crochet this little man something. That's when I found this pattern.



Isn't it adorable? What a cute hat! I'm going to make 2. One a dark brown, the other, a baby blue. I even want to make Matilda a pink one. I think this is a hat, for both boys and girls. Depending on the color.

And I'm going to try out this pattern again. I hope to make 2 pairs, in the same colors as the hats. I can't wait to put together this little package. I miss Sonja and her family so much! And I pray, that the remainder of her pregnancy, and the delivery, go well. ♥E

Miss Eloise

Our dear friends,welcomed their 2nd little girl, into the world. Last week! The day after Miss Eloise was born, we had some pretty horrible weather. Matilda, slept most of the day. And I began to get worried, by dinner time. Thinking, she was getting sick. But Friday, we were a OK.

Then we traveled to the east coast. The guys had left earlier in the week. And J was taking the week off. That meant, that we got to leave a little later than normal. But it still didn't allow us, to go meet Eloise.

Instead, we went to work. And by we, I mean Paul. Matilda and I, just enjoyed the traveling! :) I also found myself, wanting to make something. We'd already bought Miss Eloise some darling presents. But I just knew, I could make her something. Alli's blog has so many wonderful patterns. And that is exactly where I found this pattern!



I just adore the little flower. It's different from most, that I've seen. I managed to make 2 hats. A pink one, just like this one. And a cute yellow and white one. If you read Cari's blog, than you'll know she loves flowers!! I just thought, this hat would be perfect. And, I've made a few flowers, for Matilda. I want to attach them to some headbands.

We are planning to go visit our friends this afternoon. I'm so excited to meet Miss Eloise. I've heard that Amelia, is very excited to be a big sister! We're so happy for our friends! And their adorable little girls. ♥E

Inspires Me

I don't think it's any kind of a secret, that Paul and I travel a lot! Paul has a busy career. And we're very grateful, that Matilda and I, get the chance to travel with him. It means so much to us!

With that comes a lot of expectations. I need to actually look nice, when I attend events. I need to put in an effort. It's a good think though. Especially being a new momma. Because let's face it, in the early days of mommyhood, I was just grateful to take a shower. :) But traveling with Paul, gives me a reason to do my hair, put on some makeup, and look for a cute outfit.

But if you want to get honest here, it's tough. I don't go shopping a whole lot. Even when I go, I'm not really inspired. And lean heavily on friends. Like when we went to Dallas recently. I totally took advantage of Lola and Vi! I'd been saving money, and used it on a nice little shopping trip with my friends. Asking them a million and one questions. I hope they didn't mind! But I just had to. Besides, Lola has amazing taste!!

Now that we have a "schedule" again, I'm tying to remember these little things. Like making an effort in my appearance. Not only do I want my husband to be proud of me, but I want him to know, that I'm making an effort for him. He does so much for Matilda and I. Getting dressed up a few times a week, isn't a huge deal. But Paul's smile, when he opens the door, says it all!

It's funny how I've been thinking about this. And yesterday, Jamielynn posted this. Everything about this post, has inspired me!



First, I just LOVE all these colors!! And this style. Casual, but put together. Not too fussy. But a whole lot of fun. Best of all, if you read this post, you know it's all affordable.



This happens to be my favorite outfit of Jamielynn's. It's so fun! And colorful. Perfect for Spring and Summer. And now, I really want to go shopping. And not just for Matilda. Momma needs a few new outfits too! Between, isn't Jamielynn the cutest. And all those tulips, make me want to plant a whole bunch, for next year!

I really want that pink purse. And that pink ruffle shirt. So I tweeted Jamielynn today. I hope she gets back to me. Even if she doesn't, I'm still so grateful for her post. It's given me the inspiration that I need! I know that not every day in the mommyhood, has to be spent in workout clothes. ♥E

Not Giving Up

When I found out I was pregnant, there were a few things, I wanted to learn how to do. Crocheting was one of those things. I called Lola, and she promised to show me. And she did! Lola was so sweet and patient. I managed to crochet 3 blankets, some booties, and a few hats. I was so thrilled!

Now I want to try some harder things. Matilda is such a doll! And endures quite a bit with me. I'm always dressing her up. Putting some sort of bow, headband, or other glorious thing on her! I think tutus should be worn daily. Things like that.

To be 100% honest though, since Matilda was born, I haven't really done much crocheting. I've managed a few more hats. And other small projects. It's not that I'm not looking, I just don't feel like I have the skills needed for such things.

It doesn't stop me from reading lots of blogs. Getting tons of ideas. And checking this site, at least twice a week! That's where I found this pattern. Which motivated me, to pick up my crochet hook again.



Aren't these the sweetest booties? I think so! A few weeks ago, I packed up Matilda, and headed to Hobby Lobby. Don't you just love shopping for yarn? I do! I ended up buying 6 skeins of yarn. A dusty pink, fuchsia, turquoise, white, red, and a dark chocolate brown. So pretty! I even bought the perfect buttons, for each color.

That weekend, I packed 2 skeins of yarn, and 4 buttons. I printed the pattern, and figured, at the very least, I'd get a pair made. It's been just over 3 weeks now, and I have 1 and 1/2 booties finished. It's been an almost frustrating situation!

The original weekend that I started, I got both of the soles made. That was ridiculously easy. Even for me!! But the rest of the bootie, was so difficult. Things were just not working out. And at one point, I wanted to cry.

I didn't like the way things were looking. I ripped out those 4 rows, more times than I can remember. But every day, this project haunts me! And every day, I pick it up! Finally, I called Lola. The "Crochet Goddess."

We ended up getting on Skype, when Matilda was napping. And literally, Lola walked me through the process. By the way, as the pattern reads, Lola pointed out, it just doesn't work. So she wrote down the changes, and emailed them to me. She just changed the 2nd part, to the booties.

Yes, after our little crochet lesson, I'm on my way. During that lesson, I went from 1 and 1/2 booties, to 2 soles. I'm back to 1 and 1/2! I told you, there is a slight problem with the pattern. But I'd still recommend you trying it. Because these booties are just too cute!

And positive, that by dinner time, I'll have 2 booties made. And will move on to the next pair. Too bad Matilda didn't get her red ones for Valentine's Day! But her Nana, didn't let us down. She sent us, the cutest pair of red booties! Yes, friends are wonderful cheerleaders, teachers, and supporters! I don't know, what I'd do without my friend! ♥E

Enjoying Life

Matilda is nearly 2 weeks old! It's been pure bliss around here. :) Our house is currently, full of our loved ones. And we really are loving it!

Having so much of our family around, has been a blessing. It's allowed Paul and I, to get some rest. We have tons of help! And we have knowledgeable people, to turn to, when we have a question! I'm so thankful!

It's also given me, a bit of time to remember those things I didn't get done, before Matilda was born. My parents, managed to find our Christmas decorations. And pulled them out for us. My in-laws have thoroughly stocked our fridge. And my MIL has cooked us many meals, and froze them, for when everyone goes home.

My sisters have managed, to get our holiday donations, to the local Children's home. Paul sent the mail, that I never managed to get to the Post Office. And my SIL bought that CD, that I wanted for the nursery. I swear to you, I had a list! There were just certain things, that well, fell in the cracks.

One of those things, is this hat. My parents still live in the mountains. And we plan on visiting them, in about a month. That means, Miss Matilda, is going to need some warm clothes. Not like we're lacking or anything. I mean, Lola made us so many things! Everyone gifted us, with so much! But I had wanted to make an earflap hat, for my sweet girl.



This hat is a little large. I asked Lola to help me a bit. And she shrank the pattern, to make a more "newborn appropriate" hat. And because I've become a bit of a "yarn hoarder," I have exactly what I need! I'm hoping, I can get a hat done, for Matilda. With all this help, and over a month, I think we can have some success!

In the meantime, I'm going to enjoy these early days of mommyhood. And all our family. I'm looking forward to Thanksgiving. And long afternoon naps, with the sweetest girl I know! ♥E

Pretty Little Liars

Lola kept talking about this new show. And because we have similar tastes, I decided to check it out. I really like this show. I know that probably sounds nuts. It's probably targeted at pre-teens. But it's cute. And I like to see what the girls are going to be wearing. Their styles are all unique. But they wear some nice pieces. There you go, a new favorite of mine. ♥E

I Might Be Crazy...

Today I went looking for a baby shower gift for my friend Sandy. She's expecting her 1st baby, a girl, in July. And I found this, and bought it. Not for Sandy. But for me...

An up close view of "Love Bird."

And the entire set.

And before anyone asks, no we're not expecting. We're not even trying to get pregnant. Mom, please don't get all excited. I'm not sure what came over me. But I spent $250 on this cute set. Because I liked it. And with my luck, when Paul and I do decide to try for a baby, we'll probably just have boys.

The only thing that makes me feel real good is, I got a super good deal. Because there was a great baby sale going on. But now what? I guess I'm going to have to store it away until we decide to grow our family. But isn't it adorable? ♥E

Mother's Cucumber Salad

After Lola's suggestions, I finally decided to check out Gooseberry Patch's weekly free recipes. They have great recipes. A new free one every week. And here is the one for this week. It sounds good. And I'm definitely going to try it out. ♥E



Mother's Cucumber Salad

3 to 4 cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
3 T. salt
2 t. sugar
1/2 t. onion powder
1/4 t. celery seed
1/4 t. pepper
1/4 c. cider vinegar
optional: 1/2 c. sliced red onion

Place cucumbers in a large bowl; add salt and enough water to cover. Cover and shake to mix salt. Refrigerate several hours to overnight. Drain cucumbers, but do not rinse; return to bowl. Stir together sugar, onion powder, celery seed, pepper and vinegar; mix well. Pour vinegar mixture over top of cucumbers. Add onion, if desired. Cover and shake gently to mix. Serves 6.

Holiday Makeup

I'm really getting into the holiday spirit. And watching all these YouTube videos is making me want to dress up every day. Even if I'm just spending my days and nights at home. But I'm really enjoying it.

I wish I was better at makeup. I'm nowhere near Manders. But after watching some videos, I'm feeling a little adventurous. And I want to try this look. What do you think? I don't think it's too dramatic. And I'm pretty sure I can pull it off. I just need to practice. ♥E

Christmas Cookies in a Jar

Earlier this week, I was looking for a good cookie recipe. I really wanted to bake cookies. And I'm going to admit it, we still haven't finished unpacking. So I couldn't find my holiday recipes. I decide to go looking around All Recipes. And I found this recipe.



I immediately thought that this idea would be great for some holiday gifts. For our friends. Who doesn't like a good cookie? And even for some of our family. So I'm going to get started. I have a bunch to make! But I did manage to bake some cookies for Paul and I. They were delicious! I think you should try out this recipe too. But if you're not into sweet cookies, I'd half the chocolate chips. ♥E

Ingredients

1/3 cup sugar
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
3/4 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/8 teaspoon baking soda
1/8 teaspoon salt
1 cup quick-cooking oats
1 cup orange flavored dried cranberries
1 cup vanilla or white chips


ADDITIONAL INGREDIENTS:

1/2 cup butter or margarine, melted
1 egg
1 teaspoon vanilla extract


Directions

1.In a 1-qt. glass jar, layer the sugar and brown sugar, packing well between each layer. Combine the flour, baking powder, baking soda and salt; spoon into jar. Top with oats, cranberries and chips. Cover and store in a cool dry place for up to 6 months.

2.To prepare cookies: Pour cookie mix into a large mixing bowl; stir to combine. Beat in butter, egg and vanilla. Cover and refrigerate for 30 minutes. Drop by the tablespoonfuls 2 in. apart onto ungreased baking sheets. Bake at 375 degrees F for 8-10 minutes or until browned. Remove to wire racks to cool.

This and That

There is so much going on lately. There is a local Children's Home that is asking for little things for the kids. Things like crayons, bubbles, and small toys. So Paul and I decided to spend $100 on things for these kids. You know, it feels better to do something for someone else. And we can both do without a present or 2 for Christmas. This is much more important. If you want to help out, just send me an email and I'll send you the information. Now I just need to go shopping.



Paul and Antonio had to split up the guys dogs. The BBs are in Las Vegas. And we agreed to watch their dogs. That's 2-3 dogs a guy! Wow! Can you say "Dog City" around here? But it's been fun. I've been trying to spend 2 hours with them in the morning. We go outside and run around. Or they run around and I try to workout. Then Paul runs around with them when he gets home from work. Let's just say, our dogs are having a lot of fun with their visitors. :)

And we're trying to get ready for the holidays. It's been so busy around here. I've been doing some shopping on and off. But we really need to schedule out a day to go shopping. I have a list. And slowly but surely, we're making our way through it. And I'm even managing to keep up with the wrapping. I think we're doing pretty good. How are you doing on you holiday shopping? ♥E

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving everyone! I just love Thanksgiving for all the yummy food. J gave all his employees fresh turkeys. And Paul cooked ours. Amazing! We really out did ourselves this year. And we cooked like we were expecting an Army! It was just the 2 of us. :)

Now we're going through the ads. Looks like it's going to be an early morning for us tomorrow. But we enjoy the crazy shopping. And the good breakfast we usually go out to have afterward. I really can't wait to have a leftover turkey sandwich tomorrow too!

Right now, my belly is stuffed! Oh my! Everything was so delicious. And I'm still considering some more pumpkin pie. :) But I really want to say how much all of our friends and family mean to Paul and I. It's been a crazy few months. And you've stuck behind us. It means so much to us! Thank you very much. This year, we're most thankful for all the people that love us. We really are blessed. ♥E

A Long 10 Hours

Being that I'm still looking for a job, I decided to attend this Pediatric Nutrition Conference with Lola. I'm completely exhausted. And all I wanted to do today, was sleep. But Lola and I got through it.



This was such an interesting conference. I know that doesn't sound interesting at all. But it was. In all the years I went to college and studied nutrition, I only took 2 pediatric classes. They don't offer many. It's something you have to seek out after you become an RD.

Lola talked to the Pediatric Chief at the hospital where she works. There is a good possibility that I can get a job in the pediatric unit. I'm not sure if I'd be working in the regular pediatric unit, the PICU, or the NICU. But I need to become pediatric certified.

After 10 hours, I can't believe how much I learned. It was incredible! And now, I'm so excited. Even if I'm tired. We relied heavily on AMP and chocolate to make it through the day. But it all worked out nicely. Right now, I'm heading to bed. It's been a long 10 hours. ♥E

Mini Wedding Cakes

Last night, Paul and I went to Freed's Bakery. And we each got a mini wedding cake. They were delicious! Oh my goodness! Lola kept telling me about them. And she told me that when you're in Las Vegas, you have to try one.



She was right. These were the best little cakes ever! It's a good thing that I don't live in Las Vegas. Because I could see myself going to Freed's Bakery weekly. Honestly, they're that good! If you're ever in Las Vegas, you need to go to Freed's Bakery. In my opinion, it's just as important as going to the Strip and shopping at the Outlets. ♥E

Happy Halloween!

I'm so excited! It's Halloween today. And we're in Las Vegas. So much fun! Tonight we're heading to see our friends perform and we're so excited. I'm also anxious to see Lauren all dressed up. She keeps telling me about her costume.

We also have our event to go to tonight. Yes, Paul is working. But we'll have more than enough time to enjoy the holiday. This morning, we woke up to a big Halloween surprise from Lola. A basket full of yummy treats! She is an amazing friend. :)

I'm going to miss handing out candy. But this is going to be a fun day. I'm super excited! And the day is just beginning. But what can I say? I'm in love with this city and all the things we're getting to do! Happy Halloween! ♥E

Las Vegas

I'm in Las Vegas. Yes, just me. Paul is on his way as I type this. Not too far away either. This week, he has to work in Las Vegas. Actually, for about the next 2 weeks or so.



But I came with Lola and the band yesterday. Paul figured it would be a nicer way for me to travel. Since he's coming with the guys. And all the livestock. So here I am. We enjoyed a lot of the city already. I'm glad I came with Lola. She knows about all the fun places to go.

Paul is really excited about the event that they're working. And I'm just happy to be in town. We're going to get to see the BBs perform. And Lola! Not to mention all the other great shows. I'm so excited!

And we'll be here for Halloween. That should be fun! We did that once before. And that was the best Halloween ever! I'm really excited. But more excited that Paul is almost here. I can't wait to share some of the fun with him. ♥E

Fun Weekend

We had one busy and crazy weekend. But I really enjoyed it. Saturday we started out by going to the Farmers' Market. One of my favorite things to do all week. I enjoy going on Saturdays much more than Wednesdays. Because I have to go alone on Wednesdays. But on Saturdays, I get to go with Paul. And we buy lots of yummy veggies. There's not a lot fruit this time of year. But the bread is amazing!



And the afternoon was filled with lots of friends. New and old. I have never been to such a fun birthday party for a 4 year old little girl. But little Sarita was so cute. She really enjoyed all of her gifts. And all the time with her loved ones.

The food was so good. I still can't believe it! It's been such a long time since I've had food that good. I can't believe how much I ate. And they sent us home with plates and plates of food. The cake was like a little piece of heaven too!

Then on Sunday, we went to the fair. So much fun! Free concerts. Lots of junk food. And fun. Yes, lots and lots of fun! Paul and I had so much fun. We were like 5 year old kids. And after a day of junk food, we took home 2 balls of cotton candy, 2 candy apples, 2 carmel apples, 2 bags of kettle korn, and 2 turkey legs.

Can you say a good time? We had our leftovers yesterday. And today, I'm going to make some yummy veggie stew. Because we need to clean out our systems. We're on "junk food overload." Yes, I want lots of veggies. And fresh bread. But it was a fun weekend. ♥E

My Husband

My husband cracks me up. He went to work today. Even though J told him he didn't have to start until next week. But he went. And ended up getting paid. For 1 day of work. And what kind of work did he do? He tasted pies and cookies at the local fair. :)



Lola needed some more judges. And J and Paul went to help out. Paul came home stuffed! And told me that was a great 1st day of work. We're already loving our new home. Now, I should probably get started on dinner. I hadn't even thought about cooking. And I'm sure Paul would like something more than just desserts today. ♥E

Last Day at Work

Today was my last day of work. It feels strange even typing that. It was my first professional job. And I loved it. I loved the people I worked with. The location. Everything about my job. And here I am leaving it.



I packed up my office. And was very tearing eyed. Why? I really don't know. Our office isn't anything too special to cry about. It's a large room. With a bunch of desks. All of the RDs share it. But it was a nice place to be. A comforting place. A warm environment.

And then, my coworkers through me a "Going Away" party. Presents included. I cried. I couldn't help it. They are so much like family. I'm going to miss them. I'll never forget my first job. It was a good experience. I just hope my next job is just as blessed. There are so many good memories over the last few years. I did my internship at this hospital. And was offered a job here. The people will always have a special place in my heart. ♥E

Home

We've gotten so much done this week. I'm sad that our vacation is almost over. I'm going to miss our family and friends so much. But it was a good trip. And hopefully, really soon we will be back for good.



I had a few interviews. And I'm anxious to hear back from the hospitals. I really want to try and get into pediatric nutrition. It seems like such a rewarding area to work in. And Paul and I are really coming along on plans. All the pieces seem to be falling right into place. Just like we dreamt they would.

Most of all, it was just nice to be around all of our loved ones again. I've missed them so much! We've had a great life in Florida. But this is where we belong. And this week, it's really solidified that for us! ♥E