Five on Friday

Between work and the holidays, the blog has taken an unintentional back seat. But I can't resist popping in for a few Friday Favorites!

1. Stuffed Pepper Soup

I found this recipe over at Forever Young and couldn't wait to try it! It did not disappoint. It had a great flavor, and it's low cal. Perfect for a cold winter night, and it leaves some calories for my next obsession...

2. Eggnog

I usually start craving this about 9 a.m. every morning. So far, I've been able to hold off until an appropriate eggnog hour. The creaminess, the nutmeg taste....can you blame me? There's also an ice cream. I have a problem.

3. Christmas Music

While you're drinking your Christmas cocktail of choice, you've gotta have some Christmas music in the background. Laura sent me this CD as a Christmas happy, and I've enjoyed it every morning on the way to work!

Erika's Little Drummer Boy post also made me feel led to post about my most favorite Christmas song for the third year in a row.

If this doesn't give you chills...well, I'll reserve my judgment in the spirit of the season.

4. Holiday Grooming

Just in time for all the holiday parties and junk food I've been eating...Dixie on My Mind suggested this face mask and I've loved it! I've been fighting my skin since, oh, June, and my weapons are limited until February. This has helped clear some breakouts, and it's so refreshing!

I found it at Ulta and you can't beat the price.

5. Homemade Cleaner

Your face is clean, might as well keep the streak alive with your house. I found this homemade granite cleaner on Pinterest and it has worked so well on our hard to clean black granite.

That's about as exciting as life is right now. Hope you and yours are able to slow down and enjoy the season. With clear skin and clean counters.

30 Weeks

How far along? 30 Weeks. Baby is the size of a head of lettuce and weighs almost 3 pounds. He'll really start packing on the pounds in the next 10 weeks - although from the 4D he has stored up a good bit in some plump sweet cheeks!

Total weight gain: Between 16-17 pounds, depending on the day. 

Maternity Clothes: Yep. And I've added the skill of being able to fill out a large sweatshirt. 

Stretch Marks: Not yet.

Sleep: Sleeping well and loving an afternoon nap (on the weekends, of course)

Best Moment this Week: Indulging in delicious Thanksgiving food. My mom made a spice cake that was out of this world.

Miss anything? Nothing new worth noting.

Movement: He's most active at night. We'll be working on that post delivery.

Food Cravings:  I keep eating sweets, and they always make me feel a little sick. Try, try again, I say. God forbid I not support the cake industry.

Anything making you queasy or sick:  Food is hit or miss these days, but nothing too bad.

Exercise:  Running is getting a little harder, but it's still doable. I would have bet I quit by this point because it seemed SO far along, but as long as I feel good, I'm going to try and keep at it. I really think it's helped with any minor aches and pains, swelling and the ability to sleep. But part of that is probably just luck.

Gender: Boy!

Labor signs: Just now learning what they are, for when we get a little bit closer. 

Symptoms: A little more tired than usual, but nothing my 9 p.m. bedtime can't cure.

Most looking forward to: Enjoying the holidays with my little family, and soaking up our last Christmas just the 2 (and fur child) of us.

Go Grizzy, It's Your Birthday

I've taken an unintentional blog hiatus, but I'm back in time to commemorate the fur child's 8th birthday.

This dog makes me so happy. He's just funny to look at. But he's also got enough personality for every dog on our street.

A lot has changed since he waddled into my heart in Valley, Alabama 8 years ago. I'm so glad he's been along for the ride.

Sometimes even man's best friend needs to take some solace in the bottle.

So glad I've had this 55 lb shadow for eight whole years. I love that as soon as I sit down he will get up from wherever he's passed out to come sit beside me. Melt my heart.

I'm about to be totally outnumbered by boys, and couldn't be happier about it. He brings our little family so much joy! Now if I could teach him to fetch diapers....

Cheers to another healthy year!

29 Weeks

How far along? 29 weeks. 

Total weight gain: Between 16-17 pounds, depending on the day. Bring on the eggnog. 

Maternity Clothes: Yes! Leggings are my best friend, as is the full panel since I now am sporting an outie. Yikes.

Stretch Marks: Not yet.

Sleep: Can't get enough. 9 hours plus a nap? Don't mind if I do. My days are numbered, I know that full well. Pretty sure that's a Psalm. 

Best Moment this Week: 4D ultrasound, hands down. We debated doing one, but when the doctors office put it on special for the holidays, I couldn't resist. Now I've got a sweet little picture in my phone to show whoever will look:)

Miss anything? Not really. Sleeping on my stomach a little. 

Movement: Lots! I can feel hands and feet, and sometimes have to push them back in. Alien. 

Food Cravings:  Hot Chocolate. I bought the 60 count box at Costco this week. He'll probably come out drinking hot chocolate. 

Anything making you queasy or sick:  Food is hit or miss these days, but nothing too bad.

Exercise:  Running, kickboxing, some weights. The 4D confirmed he is right on my bladder. Fun!

Gender: Boy!

Labor signs: Nothing to report.

Symptoms: . Feel pretty good! I feel very blessed to have had a great pregnancy, despite the people that tell you "oh, you just wait a few more weeks." Jeez. 

Most looking forward to: If the crib will ever come in...finishing the nursery. 

28 Weeks

Photo courtesy of our "Understanding Birth" class.

How far along? 28 weeks.

Total weight gain: 16 pounds.

Maternity Clothes:  Oh yeah. So glad to be pregnant in the fall and winter. Sweaters and scarves and leggings, oh my.  

Stretch Marks: None yet.

Sleep: Good sleep, lots of bathroom breaks. That about sums it up. For some reason I get SO thirsty right before I go to bed, so it’s picking a side between thirst and bathroom visits. Guess which one wins…

Best Moment this Week: Everyone is so nice when you’re pregnant! I always feel like I’m not showing as much as I am and it’s brave of them to assume I’m pregnant. Then I catch a glimpse in the mirror –not brave at all.

Miss anything? Holiday cocktails.

Movement: I’m starting to feel more rolls than kicks. Love it!

Food Cravings: I heard the first trimester symptoms come back – and I always feel a little sick after I eat, even if I’m starving and eat a normal meal. Life could be much worse.

Anything making you queasy or sick: See above. 

Exercise: Still running, kickboxing and weights. I think he’s shifted and some part of his little body is on my bladder, which makes running exciting.  

Gender: All blue!

Labor signs: Negative.

Symptoms:  Nothing to complain about this week.

Most looking forward to: The crib getting being delivered. I’m so ready to see the bedding out of the bag!

Notes from the Weekend

It was rainy heading home from the office Friday, but these guys were in no hurry to let me get home. They weren't budging.

The only thing that could get me off the couch Friday night. I heard carbs go directly to plumping up baby. I doubt this is backed by any scientific fact, but I'm currently participating in the 2014 research.

Exhibit A.
Buffalo chicken sandwich and onion rings on a romantic date night.

Exhibit B.
Pancakes round 2.

Exhibit C (not pictured): First round of weekend pancakes at Cracker Barrel. I'm not ashamed. Ok, maybe just a little.

I did a little retail therapy. Found these pillows, but they only had a set of 2. Sad trombone.

I made up for it with this vase. I can't decide if I'm sold.

Namath slept off his disappointment of the Georgia defeat.

MS was kind enough to join him. Twice.

Hope your weekend was restful - or more exciting. Whatever your heart desires.

27 Weeks

A little behind and just posting last weeks update.

How far along? 27 weeks. Baby boy is about 15 inches long and over 2 lbs. I believe it – I can feel him stretched from side to side.

Total weight gain: 16 pounds.

Maternity Clothes:  I haven’t reached the point where I’m sick of everything yet, though people assure me it’s to come. I feel like I have a whole new wardrobe – and the best kind – one that consists of  stretchy pants and just in time for the holidays!

Stretch Marks: None yet. I have noticed a slight line down my stomach. Excellent.

Sleep: Good, except for 4-5 bathroom breaks per night.

Best Moment this Week: Matt put together the Ikea dresser. I was very thankful he tackled that project and let me nap while he hammered away and Namath barked incessantly. I think I’ll keep him – verdicts still out on Namath.  

Miss anything? Not especially.

Movement: It has really picked up this week! Lots of movement from the outside as well. It’s a little alien-esque, as I had been warned. But overall, always a relief to feel him squirming around in there.

Food Cravings: Salty, and delicious coffee drinks. Probably decaf. Hot chocolate has been hitting the spot.

Anything making you queasy or sick: Eating too much. Eating too much sugar. Yet it hasn’t slowed me down from doing either.

Exercise: Still at it. I’ve avoided the swelling and a lot of discomfort so far, and I really think running has something to do with that, with a little luck sprinkled in. I found a few kickboxing YouTube videos as well to mix it up now that it’s getting super cold in the mornings.  

Gender: All blue!

Labor signs: Negative.

Symptoms:  Really feel very fortunate to have had an easy pregnancy so far.

Most looking forward to: Holiday breaks coming up to spend time with my little family. We’re looking forward to getting the nursery finished (me), doing some nesting (me) and a lot of couch time with the fur child.   

Five on Friday

 Life's gotten in the way of my blogging, but I'm back with lots of sugary favorites to share. I'll start with the one treat that doesn't spike your insulin levels...

1. OPI's Boris and Natasha

Found this little gem from the Russian collection at my Veteran's Day pedicure. It seems all the dark colors I've picked lately have been more on the black side when they actually go on, so this was a welcome change. Love the way it looks! 

2. No-Bake Cake Batter Cookie Bars

Is there anything about the name of this recipe that isn't appealing? I saw this over at Lambert's Lately and had to try it. I had no idea they made birthday cake Oreos, but they do. It was the perfect celebration after Alabama beat LSU.

3. Hot Chocolate by the Fire
I've been craving some hot chocolate lately. We've also enjoyed many a night by the fireplace. I plan to marry the two this weekend...it should be lovely. Will a 2 hour documentary on the assassination of JFK dampen this winter scene? I'll report back next week.

4. Pumpkin Spice Smores
You read that right. When I discovered there were Pumpkin Spice Marshmallows on the shelf, it only seemed natural two of my favorite fall flavors should mingle. It was very successful. You will want some more. Namath just wanted some. 

5. Winner, Winner Chili Dinner
These guys winged a chili recipe for our church's chili cook off Monday night and came in second! I was pretty impressed. So I made them take this dorky picture.

It is cold and dark and rainy here and with next weekend being jam packed, I'm hoping for a lot of family time and maybe a date night this weekend. Soak up all this free time while we can - that's my current state of mind. Happy Friday to you and yours!

26 Weeks

How far along? 26 weeks. It remains in question when the third trimester begins, but we are getting close! Baby is the size of a cucumber and is continuing to put on fat. Hes inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid – essential to develop the lungs. Hell be ready to scream in no time!

Total weight gain: 15 pounds.

Maternity Clothes:  All maternity pants and most tops. I haven’t  tried a non-maternity top in a while, but I’m sure a few would still work.

Stretch Marks: None yet.

Sleep: Good, except for 4-5 bathroom breaks per night.  

Best Moment this Week: Running the Vulcan 10k with baby boy!  

Miss anything? I thought I was going to die refraining from sugar an entire day before my glucose test. Oh, the humanity. Think I’m addicted?  

Movement: After running on Saturday, he was so quiet all day, it made me nervous. I asked the doctor about it at my appointment, and she said as long as he has an active hour within 24 hours, we’re good. He needs to rest too – and running probably chills him out. If only that will work come Spring… 

Food Cravings: Nothing exciting here. Salty more than sweet.

Maternity Clothes:  All maternity pants and most tops. I haven’t  tried a non-maternity top in a while, but I’m sure a few would still work.

Stretch Marks: None yet.


Food Cravings: Nothing exciting here. Salty more than sweet.

Anything making you queasy or sick: Back to the first trimester nausea after eating. 

Exercise: Keeping it up. Trying to figure out the challenge of darkness after work – Its hard to stay motivated, so I feel like I will do best to get most of my workouts done in the morning.

Gender: All blue!

Labor signs: Negative.

Symptoms:  Really feel very fortunate to have had an easy pregnancy so far.

Most looking forward to: The crib arriving and getting the dresser put together. Curtains, bedding and rug are here, so it should come together quickly once the furniture gets in.  

Baby's First Race

The Vulcan Run is one of my favorite races in Birmingham. The distance doesn't require a whole lot of training, and the weather early November is always perfect for running. This year presented a few more challenges, but I knew I wanted to run this one, if all went well with the pregnancy, and then I could cruise with shorter runs and more indoor workouts for the rest of my pregnancy when it's cold and dark.

I did a little dress rehearsal the night before. I love some polka dots.

 Hard to believe this baby bump! Aren't you glad you aren't the friend I texted, "Can you see my belly button? Is that inappropriate?"

Per his usual routine, MS laid out all the breakfast supplies the night before. I simply picked the Christmas mug for size - Sunburst didn't need too much caffeine - although I treated myself to half a cup of real coffee.

The pre-race bathroom debacle. Ugh. I literally went 4 times from the time we parked at 7 and the start of the race at 8, and probably could have gone a 5th time about a mile in.

The race day adrenaline didn't fail me. It's so much more fun to run in a race, and my pace was a little quicker than what I've been posting on my solo runs. I didnt get out of breath until the last home stretch, and as soon as I crossed the finish I recovered almost immediately, so I felt like I pushed, but not too hard. That being said, my recovery has been much slower in the muscle department, so this will probably be my last longer run until I'm pushing the jogging stroller.

It felt really great to be able to check this off my list. Here's hoping all this running comes in handy around February.

It's a shame MS has no personality. But, I would be pretty pumped too if I had finished in 48 MINUTES. That's clocking out 7:40 miles. I was SUPER impressed and proud of him - it was a huge PR. I don't know if he'll want to run with me again!

Coach Grizz was pretty proud too. He loves being held like a caught fish. Can't you tell?
 

All I wanted to celebrate a good race and 3 years was to order by number at our favorite local Mexican restaurant. MS indulged me...I think I'll keep him around.

Five on Friday

The last Friday before Daylight Savings Time. I will just be excited about light in the mornings again rather than dreading the darkness when I leave work every day.

That being said, a few things that brightened my week.

1. Trick or Treat
We celebrated the last Halloween without a little one at our house. Everyone got in the spirit.

2. Leather and Crystal
It's our third anniversary weekend. I prefer to celebrate on the weekends - is that weird? It just seems more festive. We did neither the modern gift - leather - or the traditional gift - crystal. Instead, I requested a prenatal massage and Mexican food for dinner. Tis the season of life we are in.

3, Cover Up
Totally shifting gears to drugstore makeup. I've never been much of a concealer fan, but when I saw the ad for one that covers and helps get rid of dark spots, I immediately was sold on giving it a try. After first having to twist the top about a million times to initially get the product out, it's worked wonderfully. The sponge applicator is mess free and I think it provides just the right amount of coverage. I use my MAC foundation brush to blend.

4. In the Closet
Matt is so kindly (with help from my Dad) installing the nursery closet organization system this weekend. Hoping by Sunday we'll have a better place to hang/fold his little clothes, that looks a little something like this.

5. Cold Date

I've got a date with these come Saturday morning. Cannot wait!

25 Weeks

How far along? 25 weeks. Or 7 months - whoa. Does that sound really far along? Baby is the size of a cauliflower, and weighs around 1.5 lbs. He knows up from down and is growing more hair!

Total weight gain: 12 pounds. Baby is growing!

Maternity Clothes:  All maternity pants and most tops. Some maternity tops are still a little big, and some of my regular tops still fit. I have quite the selection now. 

Stretch Marks: None yet.

Sleep: Saturday was a record low at 2 hours - and we were at a hotel with no Hallmark Channel. It was tough finding something to watch. I suffered through an entire episode of Love It or List it where they didn't decide to Love It or List it. It only added to my exasperation. 

Best Moment this Week: MS getting to feel Sunburst kick. I think he was really excited! 

Miss anything? Nope. Loving getting ready for our boy! 

Movement: I feel him a lot! I try not to be a little bitter I don't think I feel him quite as much because of the anterior placenta, just happy he's healthy and moving around! 

Food Cravings: Salt salt salt. Me and the Morton girl are BFF. I'm thinking of inviting her to my baby shower. 

Anything making you queasy or sick: Back to the first trimester nausea after eating. 

Exercise: Still going pretty strong. Enjoyed my last evening run downtown while daylight allows.

Gender: All blue! 

Labor signs: Negative. 

Symptoms: The sciatic pain all but disappeared. I don't know if it is luck or the PT or a combination- but what a relief! 

Most looking forward to: Putting his nursery together. Now that all the big decisions are made and ordered, it's going to be fun seeing it all put together and putting on the finishing touches. 

Three Years

Three Years of marriage, or 156 weeks, if you are getting used to counting in weeks...

Such a happy day!  God blessed me beyond what I deserve when he brought you along.

 I think this next year will be one of our most challenging but best yet.

Praying for many more years with you by my side.

Sugar and Shopping and a Wedding

 Since we last spoke, we've done a lot of eating (for MS' birthday), and some traveling east (for a wedding).

First stop - cookie slop pie. Well, the official name is No Bake Cookie Pie. Cookie slop is Matt's mom's recipe and it's basically the same thing in a 9x13 - chocolate chip cookies dipped in milk layered with cool whip. It is absolutely fabulous and ridiculously easy.

We did eat an actual meal beforehand. Pioneer Woman's Penne alla Vodka. You haven't lived until you've been to the liquor store 6 months pregnant.

On Friday's grocery store run I saw this monstrosity. We all know how that game ended. RTR.

Confession: I've never made chili. So of course I decided that's what I had to cook for my family dinner for Matt's birthday. My friend's recipe did not disappoint and it was the perfect meal for a cold Fall night.

Mom made the red velvet cake - Matt's favorite.

Before heading to Atlanta on Saturday we dropped Namath at Doggy Day Camp - aka the vet by Matt's parents house. Boarding him at a different vet has proved way less traumatic for his tender ego. Despite the stink eye in this pic.

I got 3 of 6 magazines read on the trip, and we arrived at the hotel to this cute welcome bag.

The wedding and reception were gorgeous. Loved these centerpieces - I'm a sucker for a hydrangea. They had food stations from all the countries they've traveled together as a couple. Thailand, Italy, France and Australia as well as a Southern food station for Georgia. Delicious! When else can you eat pad thai and mashed potatoes in one sitting?!

You know MS wasted no time getting out on the dance floor.

Erin was a beautiful bride! That dress...maybe one of the prettiest I've seen. If I knew the names of fabrics, I would tell you, but it was really different and oh so pretty.

We made our first trip to Ikea Sunday on our way out of town. We picked up quite a few things, and besides an odd and end, all of our main items for the nursery are purchased.

A sneak peak at one of our finds:

We fit it all in, thank goodness.

Being a mile from The Varsity, there was only one thing left to do.