focused LINZ

a year ago today....

2015-02-13T15:21:00.000-06:00

A year ago today, we arrived at the hospital with
excitement and anticipation of meeting our little baby girl.
A year ago today, she entered our lives and changed it forever.
A year ago today, we started our family.

How was it already a year ago, today?

Evie's nursery

The day of her arrival:

Evangeline,

You entered this world at 11:37 am on Thursday, February 13th at 7 pounds 14 ounces and stole our hearts. I have never felt a love like this before. You made me a momma - you made us a family. It has been a wonderful year of learning about you and how to be the best mommy I can be for you. You are such a loving, sweet little girl. Your love of reading and music is a perfect mix of me and your dada. I am ecstatic that I get to share each and every day with you because every day I learn something new about you. I can't imagine any other place I'd rather be than by your side. Thank you for all that you are and all that you will become. Here's to many more birthdays, my precious baby bug!

I love you forever,

Momma

the 3 birthday girls...

2015-01-17T11:11:00.001-06:00

We hosted the 3 birthday girls in our family - DeeDee, Mamaw, and Leslie. Can you believe they all share the exact same birthday? December 18th really kicks off the holiday season for us. Once this birthday occurs the days really start rolling and all of a sudden it is New Years! Luckily Tison had the day off work so he and Ali did most of the cooking. The menu: spinach dip, buffalo chicken dip, sausage meat balls, southwest eggrolls, mini pecan pies, Good Eats strawberry salad, and poppy seed ham sliders.

Leslie and Cuan arrived from Zimbabwe on the 17th - just in time to share in the birthday celebration. Also- can you believe how big Hudson and Andrew are getting? Although they are picky eaters, they love love love "dips" and bread. Even if you just call something a dip, they will try it. Right now Evie likes everything we give her, but I know that day is coming soon where she refuses what we serve her. Lauren has such amazing patience - I'm so happy she became a mom first so I can learn from her. Speaking of - Merrick baby #3 is due in April. THREE babies! Ahhh!

Family Time = Good Times

The red velvet cupcakes from Buttercups served as individual birthday cakes so everyone could make their own wishes. We ended the night with a few gifts for our guests of honor; the grandkids helping out with present opening was priceless. Happy Birthday to all! Thanks for letting us host your special day.

Thanksgiving 2014 | Grateful

2014-12-08T13:10:00.000-06:00

I often find myself making lists - lists of things I want to be when I "grow up." Poor Tison has seen and heard the millions of ideas I have and the plans I have yet to start, but there is something about this time of year that makes you stop wishing for something you don't have and appreciate the things you do. When I look around at all the love that surrounds us- really, what more could I ask for?

I am grateful for:
- an encouraging and loving husband
- a kind spirited and healthy baby girl
- a mother who doubles as a best friend
- a dad who loves and cares for me everyday.
- two beautiful sisters that just "get me"
- a loving set of in-laws who are wonderful grandparents
- my friends near and far that are supportive beacons of light
- a lovely home that we have started our family in
- and two precious (and stinky) mutts that have made it through the transition of the baby and still love us

I am loved. I am grateful. I am happy.

We had an early Thanksgiving with the Hudson-Merricks and also celebrated Lauren's birthday. She's expecting a baby in April. Doesn't she look fantastic?

Fr. Mike shared in the birthday/thanksgiving celebration too.

Friendsgiving is a tradition that began a few years ago. The night before Thanksgiving we would go out with friends to various bars. Well, with children things change. This year we thought we would kick it up a notch and have a whole meal at the house. It was potluck style and it really came together as a nice little dining experience with friends. We sat down at the dining room table and everything! It is always good to see everyone gathered together during the holidays especially those in from out of town.

On Thanksgiving day, we shared the day with the Tisons. Aunt Maria and Uncle Richard came up from Miami and Aunt Janice traveled from Marksville. It was a special day.

I hope everyone is enjoying the holiday season! Sending love to you. xoxo

{past Thanksgiving posts}

New Mall, New Store, New Look!

2014-11-13T15:13:00.001-06:00

As a native of Shreveport, I have frequented Mall St. Vincent for most my life. The memories that have taken place in that one location abound.

I remember throwing pennies in the "wishing pond," asking for a quarter for the big gumball machine, getting my ears pierced at Claire's and making it a tradition by going back there with my little sisters when they were old enough to get theirs pierced.

In middle school I was dropped off at Mall St. Vincent to meet up with friends and go to the movies (back when it had a theater inside.) We would eat at Garfield's restaurant and have our parents pick us up. We thought we were so grown up.

I would use my allowance money to do my Christmas shopping at The Disney Store, Kirkland’s, and Hallmark and buy calendars in the center kiosks. Even Lewis Gifts moved there for a little bit! What about Bombay and Co.? Remember?

I recall shopping with my mom at The Limited and Express when our private school allowed a "free dress day." It was a huge deal when Abercrombie and Fitch moved in! (Are they still putting topless men on all their shopping bags?)

No high school dance photo was taken without first having a makeover from Dillard’s.

As the years have passed, stores moved out and reopened in outdoor shopping centers. The only place I would pop into on a semi-regular basis was Banana Republic for their jewelry or sales rack. It became a different place. Not the exciting mall experience of yesteryear.

Mall St. Vincent is taking a stand. They are undergoing multi-million dollar renovations that are nearly complete. They are bringing back the phrase "Let's go to the mall!" because really -- who says that anymore?

Today, the global brand H & M is holding their grand opening in MStV. My coworkers, Tara and Elizabeth, and I charged the doors when they opened at noon. With a DJ at the ready, fashion bloggers roaming with iPhones in hand, moms with strollers, cool college kids with an arm full of finds, we made our way through the racks. It felt like Christmas. The energy was electric, the staff was friendly, and obviously the clothes were not only fashion forward, but affordable. Tara, who recently moved here from Tuscaloosa, Ala., remarked that she is so excited to live in a city that has H & M. I am proud of our little Shreveport carrying such a big name.

Welcome to town H &M. Thanks for making us look good.

#HMLovesShreveport

Happy Halloween!

2014-10-31T10:57:00.002-05:00

I think it is safe to say we like this holiday! I hope everyone has fun tonight - we have been dressing up all week :)

St. Luke's Pumpkin Patch

Pumpkin Shine on Line

Coven Release Party for Hesson Haus

Book Club Family Night

'Trick or Treating' with cousins

The Amazing, Always Joyous 2014 Canton Adventure Begins!

2014-10-01T13:20:00.001-05:00

We leave for Canton in the morning - ohh, the treasures to behold! The year 2014 marks 30 years since the Crewe of Canton began their Trade Days Adventures - and the 1st time to have THREE UHauls in tow.

{Read about the history of this tradition from Lady Di herself here.}

Here's a little photo flashback:

Ladies of the High Court of the Crewe of Canton 2013 in uniform ;) and me - 5 months pregnant!

We're the kind of ladies that like to STAND OUT! I can't tell you how many times people asked us where we got our witch hats. They really came in handy when you got lost, too.

I will be able to tell Evangeline that she went to Canton Trade Days before she was even born. She is the first born girl of the third generation North Louisiana Crewe that will be able to attend when she starts making her own shopping money! Remember - girls ONLY! Sorry, Hudson and Andrew.

One thing to remember before entering a flea market:

Look past the scratches, dust, and dirt; focus on the possibilities.

Can you believe it has been a year since we moved in? My budget is very limited this year since we just redid the floors in our house. This means it's time to get creative. I'm taking my money to the ~~junk~~yard and turning some trash to treasure!

Remember last year when I found a bassinet, rocking chair, and bookshelf? There's nothing a little Annie Sloan paint can't do.

View past Canton Trade Days Adventures here!

Andrew turns 2...

2014-09-22T21:02:00.003-05:00

Andrew,
You are the cutest 2 year old I know. I love it when you run to greet me with a big hug. I love it when you shine that crooked smile. I love seeing you play with your big brother - you both really like the movie Cars or any kind of tractor, train, car, or truck! I love how you say "red car lightning" and "baby Evangeline." And I LOVE YOU!

Your mom did such a good job with your train themed 2 year old birthday party. She is making it hard for the rest of us to follow.

Mrs. Jordan and Aiden came to celebrate. Your mama made your blue cake with blue icing like you specifically requested.

Your cousin, Evangeline, got to celebrate with you this year. You also looked adorable in your conductor hat. It was just a tiny bit too big for your head, which made it even cuter.

Aunt Cyn, Aunt Pam, and DeeDee would never miss your birthday party!

CHOOOooo - Chooooo!

You received lots of presents from your sweet friends. Big brother Hudson made sure you could open our presents. He did a great job opening them - errr - I mean overseeing your progress.

Godfather Joseph had a good time.

Apparently the new way to do a piñata is not by hitting it, but everyone grabs a string that is attached underneath and pulls until the candy comes out. Your dad decided that was silly so we took a broom stick to it.

He busted it open, but hit your mother in the head with part of it in the process! oopsy!

See Andrew's first birthday party here!

we're going to see the sunflowers, baby!

2014-09-12T15:59:00.000-05:00

"We're going to see the sunflowers, baby!" is what Hudson kept telling Evangeline on our drive to Carmel, La; just a quick road trip to view a field full of sunflowers at my mom's friend Vivian's home in the country. With over 175 acres of property to play with, Mr. Faler wanted some sunflowers on his land. He is more than generous to invite us over to reap the benefits of his hard work :) Upon arrival we were offered a beer and a four wheeler - my kind of afternoon!

After a fun ride around the property, we grabbed our buckets and scissors and got to work. My sister, Lauren, said, "Isn't it funny how some of them just call out to you to pick them?!" and it's true!

Thanks for having us! We can't wait to come back. What do you think about a bonfire this fall ;) ??

Boneheads brings it...

2014-09-12T15:18:00.001-05:00

Dinner out with the hubby, parents, and one adorable baby:

Have you tried Boneheads on Youree Drive yet?

The atmosphere is clean and nautical.

My favorite thing we ordered was the Boneheads Shrimp appetizer. The batter has the perfect crunch.

We also enjoyed all the sauce options. Welcome to Shreveport, Boneheads!

never say never...

2014-08-21T14:37:00.000-05:00

Never say never unless you want to eat your words.

When I was pregnant, my sister Lauren, the experienced mother of two, went with me to register for the baby necessities at Babies R Us. There were many things that went on the registry that I had no idea I would be using so regularly once baby girl arrived. To be honest, I got only half way up the aisles before handing the registry gun over to Lauren and asking her to just do it! I was overwhelmed by the amount of decisions and products needed for one little bundle of joy! There was one product in particular though that I refused to let her zap with the gun. I said, "Lauren! There is no way I will EVER do that! That is disgusting!"

And then.... Evangeline got her first real deal snotty mess-of-a-cold this week.

Yesterday I was calling Lauren to bring over her nose sucker (and eating my words.) I now know the three secrets to surviving a baby's runny nose when the hospital grade nose bulb thingy just won't cut it.

1. Sterile Saline Nasal Mist (This really gets it running.)
2. The most essential step - NoseFrida Nasal Aspirator: The SnotSucker!!!!!
3. Then clean up with Boogie Wipes (They are different than regular wipes - news to me.)

And voilà - she can breathe out of her nose again.

Can you guess which one of the three items I said I would never use? Yeah, you probably guessed the one where you suck - yes, suck- the snot out of your child's nose.

I'm here to say it works. Put it on your registry. Never say never. Just do it. She absolutely hates it while I'm doing it. Arms are batting at me- head is wiggling side to side, but when I'm done she can breathe. I am sure this is just one in the long line of things I will do for her own good.

Oh, and sorry I ever questioned you Mrs. Lauren :)

(December 2013 - 7 months preggo - just thinkin' i knew somethin' about somethin' - HA!)

OMG! How can it be?

2014-08-13T17:27:00.002-05:00

My baby girl is 6 months old!

This little sweetie is getting so so active! I'm pretty excited about seeing her personality shine through. Although, because she is such a mover and a shaker, she is losing her leg rolls - nooooooo!!! She is also sleeping from 8:00 pm - 5:00 am at night. I am secretly missing our nightly mom and daughter rendezvous, but I'm also very proud of my growing girl. The only constant is change, right?

{Miss E had 2 teeth show up in one day. I heard this is one of the MOST painful things we ever experience - we just don't remember. What a trooper! Aaaand look who's sitting up now! Get it, girl.}

"When I'm trying really hard to do something new I stick out my tongue. It's super cute, mom says. Sometimes I try to stand on my tippy toes, but I face plant. And other times......success!"

my little Catholic baby...

2014-08-07T17:09:00.002-05:00

We baptized Evangeline on Sunday. She was so precious. Everyone kept saying they had never seen a baby not make a single peep in the ceremony. That's my girl!

Before the big day, we wanted to have the godparents over for a "rehearsal" if you will. Tison cooked crock-pot ribs and everyone pitched in with potato salad, salad, and bbq beans. Justin and Sara, who traveled from Dallas, brought some Texas craft brews for us to try. The Revolver: Blood and Honey was very complex. I want one right now, actually.

We gathered on Sunday at St. Joseph Catholic Church (where I was baptized) for the sacrament of baptism and were joined by family and a few close friends. Evangeline wore my baptismal gown that my godmother bought for me many moons ago. My sisters were baptized in it, as well as Hudson and Andrew - kind of a special garment!

A special thank you to everyone who took pictures of this special moment for our family! My hands were getting a little shaky without my camera - ha.

The reception at DeeDee's was special. The house was full of love and FOOD! The menu: dips, finger sandwiches, beautiful personalized cookies, cake balls, pecan sandies, lemon squares, fruit and veggie trays, beer, champagne and punch. -pheew!

Now we've got a little cat-lic' bebe ;)

Jordan and Justin- y'all are now officially family! Thanks for being a part of Miss E's life.

Click here for Hudson or Andrew's baptismal day.

you say it's your birthday...

2014-07-20T22:01:00.000-05:00

...it's my birthday too, yeah! Yep, that's right- another birthday has come and gone. Don't worry, this one did not go by without the proper celebratory activities. When Tison asked me what I wanted to do for my birthday, I told him I wanted to browse local shops and then possibly look for a grill for our backyard. With Miss E around, it is hard to go in and out of places and so I have just been avoiding it all together to spend time with her. BUT... since he asked ;) he was in charge of baby girl while I got to look around while also enjoying their company. I wrote out a lengthy list of places and we hit the road.

{Here are a few snapshots from the days adventures.}

{At about 6pm I told Tison I really wanted to get the grill we saw at Lowe's and cook on it. He was like, "tonight??" So, we bought the grill, put it together, put baby girl down, and had a romantic meal on the back porch. It was perfect. And I love that our table setting includes a baby monitor.}

On Sunday, my in-laws invited us to Sevendipity Cafe for brunch. This was our second time there and we just love it!

{The huevos rancheros could be my breakfast everyday. And I am sure you have heard of the cronut? Well, the chef, Dominique Ansel, asked that Sevendipity stop using the name creauxnut. After a facebook poll, the new name for the amazing croissant/donut pastry is the juggernut. I'm not crazy about the name, but it's not going to keep me from ordering this dessert.}

On Tuesday, my birthday day, my mom made a home cooked dinner at their house. We arrived excited to see family, but I had no idea what was in store. The doorbell rang and Mom asked me to get it (she was busy in the kitchen.) I just thought it was Lauren and the boys arriving for dinner. I opened the front door and when I first looked out no one was there- and then- bam- Leslie jumps in front of me. I just stood there, literally for a full minute, trying to figure out why she is standing at the front door of Mom's house in the United States of America in July when I wasn't expecting her to fly in from Africa again until December!?!? She got me. She kept it a surprise from me and Lauren that she was coming in and we were both stunned, shocked, and thrilled. Everyone in the house knew but us! What a great secret :) She is in town for the next 3 weeks- whoohoo!!

{Tison was snapping photos of us when Lauren points out that she is sitting in a rocking chair with a blanket covering her legs while we all gather around her for a photo- she felt like a great grandma- we died laughing. Sure do love having everyone together.}

this heart melting smile...

2014-07-15T16:51:00.000-05:00

Sometimes I think I could just pass out from pure overwhelming love that I feel for this child of mine!

Last night I woke up to E's grunting on the baby monitor (which I LOVE by the way). I clicked the video button to see what she was up to. You would never guess - she's doing push ups in her crib! I lay her down on her back at night - "back is best" they say. She loves to roll over, but she hasn't quite gotten the hang of flipping back over from her stomach to her back and was getting a little frustrated. I went into her nursery to comfort her at 3:30 am - and when I picked her up- y'all - she arose out of the crib with the biggest smile on her face. It was so unexpected that I immediately teared up with joy. Sitting here- hours later- I can still see that face in front of me beaming. She loves me, she really really loves me! It was the best.birthday.present.ever.

{look who's 5 months old! and look at all of those arm muscles :) }

I am yours and you are mine, baby girl.

summer spectacular...

2014-07-09T23:03:00.000-05:00

Our weekend in New Roads was like a sun drenched dream. We spent more time on the water and dock than on land. Just the way I like it. :)

Thursday night pleasure cruise:

{Evangeline hated the life jacket her dad bought her- doesn't she look scared?! Bless her little heart}

{It was fun waking up with all the kiddos in one house! You gotta love a slumber party.}

Friday: Red, White, and Blue Day!

{Our gracious host, Captain Coco!}

{the three cousins with life vests on = adorable!}

{Every time we got on the boat, E would fall asleep instantly and stay knocked out until the boat stopped! So funny.}

{The sand pit idea was kind of a bust- they were either throwing it in the water or throwing it in each others faces, but don't they know how to turn it on for the camera?}

{Lots of special Daddy-Daughter time was had.}

On the 4th of July evening, Fr./Brother-in-Law Andrew cooked burgers and we watched from the dock fireworks all up and down False River. Hudson was having a ball- he kept jumping and screaming, "SPECTACULAR!!!" We have no idea where he got that from, but I was cracking up.

On Saturday morning, I woke up early to watch the sunrise. The morning was filled with a million different shades of pastels. I just love what God does with his paintbrush in the sky.

{Some more morning cousin play time before we got ready for some coasting on False River...}

{This is our attempt at a group photo - Hudson wasn't having it. Poor guy just got sunscreen in his eyes.}

{See! I told you- falls asleep every time!}

{Hudson had fun driving for a second, but Andrew - our little dare devil- took this job seriously! Trouble ;)}

A quick jump in the river-lake and we were back on the road to Shreveport. The thing I liked best about our little road trip was the lack of clocks and structure. Since Evangeline was born I have been on such a schedule that when I realized I could just go with the flow this weekend- I took full advantage. (Y'all- I even took a nap!!) It felt like a real vacation!

On Sunday we had lunch with Russell and the Raleys at Oyster Bar. Yum. Also- I love my friends.

Then we had dinner with DeeDee and Pops.

What a wonderful 4th of July holiday!

and I'm Proud to be an American...

2014-07-03T12:20:00.002-05:00

It appears I skipped a 4th of July post last year, so I scrounged up some photos we took in the backyard of the Dudley at this time last year on Instagram. We grilled and had friends over for gin and tonics. I was pretend drinking them in front of friends because we were secretly pregnant with baby E :)

This year we are heading down to New Roads, La. with Aunt Laur and cousins to spend some time on the water and maybe sneak in a snow cone or two. I hope you all have a relaxing weekend and have some time to put your feet up and remember how lucky we are to live in this country. xoxo

Happy Red, White, and Blue!

{previous Independence Day posts here}

Celebrating at Fairfield Place Bed and Breakfast...

2014-07-02T17:05:00.000-05:00

It seems unreal, but as of May 18th Tison and I have been married one year; and what a year it has been. Not everyone can say they became a wife and mother at the same time... We found out we were 5 weeks pregnant a mere 5 weeks after we were married. Talk about a short honeymoon- haha!

Newly married and pregnant had it's challenges and now with our sweet four and a half month old - Evangeline, marriage has brought on even more learning experiences. I would say we are handling our new marriage, house, and baby pretty well - but who doesn't deserve a night away from it all?

For my first night ever away from baby girl, Tison reserved a room for us to celebrate our first year anniversary at Fairfield Place Bed and Breakfast. It was like we had traveled to a new city with only a 10 minute drive from home. This house was built in 1870s and decorated in an elaborate and eclectic way. It is oozing with character and every room brings a new aspect but cohesive feeling to the B and B. I was in love with the whole thing.

Our room had a jacuzzi in the room and when we walked in- a bottle of bubbly was on ice for us! How thoughtful :)

We went to dinner at The Cub and of course had their steak and au gratin potatoes. I treated myself to a lemon drop :)

While we were at dinner at our favorite 'hidden gem' in town, my husband and I overheard another couple talking about RelayRides and how incredibly easy it was for them to use. I made a mental note to research this at a later time; maybe use it for a night to find another hidden gem in one of the surrounding areas. I find the quickly growing concept of the sharing economy so interesting and it is certainly making it easier for people to travel. Have you ever tried anything like RelayRides or couch surfing before?

After the Cub, we went to the local jaunt Bears to listen to some live music. It was about 11:15 when we both looked at each other and said- lets go back to Fairfield. I was dying to crawl into that comfy bed! Sleeping through the night without an interruption (or baby crying) was worth it's weight in gold. I woke up with a smile on my face.

The owner of the B and B runs The Cotton Boll Grill and catered our engagement party (people still talk to me about the food that night) so we knew the breakfast was going to be fantastic! I was blown away at the service and quality of the food. My mouth still waters thinking about those delicious grits. After having some coffee on the patio swing overlooking Fairfield Avenue and stuffing my pockets with the exotic chocolates that are on every table throughout the house, we headed back to reality recharged, refreshed, and ready to hug and kiss on that baby!

Ummm, hey there. Meet my daughter!

2014-06-25T17:08:00.000-05:00

Has it been 5 months since I published a blogpost? Really? 5 MONTHS? Sorry about that. Life has been a little crazy and awesome and I just haven't been able to take my eyes off my daughter.

Introducing to the blog Evangeline Marie Tison! My heart, my joy, the light of my life...even her name means 'good news'!

7 pounds 14 ounces and 20 inches long. Born at 11:37am on February 13, 2014

More pictures of Evangeline's b-day from the hospital can be found at Aunt Leslie's blog - The American Zimmigrant

Interesting Fact:
Evangeline was born to the You've Got Mail soundtrack.

First thing both her grandmothers commented on (besides her beauty):
Wow, she has big feet!

Everyone's favorite question is:
What are you going to call her??

Our answer:
We call her Evangeline, but you are welcome to call her whatever you want :)

Her many nicknames:
Little birdie, bug, bear, squishy girl, nugget, sweet cheeks, chunky monkey, angel girl, ladybug...
Baby girl, little bit, Miss E, Evie Marie, Mah-re-re --- to name a few!

(3.28.14 - one month-ish)

(4.4.14 - two months-ish)

13.4 pounds and 24.5 inches

(5.20.14 - three months-ish)

(6.19.14 - four months-ish)

18.6 pounds and 2 inches long

E at 4 months: She is very social. She loves to smile and when she does it lights up a room with those dimples. She loves to be talked or sung to. She is rolling over. She is beginning to laugh, but right now it sounds like a snort. She is grabbing at everything - my hair and earrings, her toys. She even tries to grab patterns on t-shirts and ends up just scratching. It is pretty cute. She eats every 2.5-3 hours and is very particular about the temperature of her milk when we feed her a bottle. She loves her daddy so much that when she sees him she starts jumping in your arms.

Childcare:
Right now everyone is pitching in to watch baby E - My mom (DeeDee), my MIL (Mammaw Chris), and my sis (Aunt Lauren). They are AWESOME! Starting when she is 6 months old, at the end of the summer, she will be going to a nanny recommended by our friends Shelley and Cory. Evangeline has met the nanny already - Memaw and Papa (they want to be considered another set of grandparents) and they get along swimmingly.

Her daily schedule typically looks like this:
(obviously some variation if she's hungry earlier or later)
6:30 am feeding (in bed with me)
9:30 am feeding (with DeeDee, Mammaw Chris, or Aunt Lauren)
12:30 pm feeding (I go to her at lunch)
3:30 pm feeding (with DeeDee, Mammaw Chris, or Aunt Lauren)
6:00 pm feeding ( at home with me)
7:30 pm bath time with Dad
7:45 pm feeding and rocking to bed
8:00 - 8:15 bed time in big girl crib (moved from bassinet next to my bed to crib on 6-14)
possible 1am need for a pacifier/comfort
3:00 or 4:00 am feeding
and then we start all over!

The things I have learned about being a mother so far:

She is always changing - our routine, what she needs and when, so I am learning to take each day for what it is and learn to adjust to the changes as they come. Even though we may have just gotten used to doing it one way - I am learning to adapt to the never ending cycle of change. For example: when I went back to work in May it was incredibly difficult on all fronts, but especially because we had just established a routine. I thought there was absolutely NO WAY I could squeeze anything else into our day and be on time, looking professional, and have a mind to do work - come home and have any energy left to offer my little girl ... and now, 7 weeks later, I am amazed at all we do in a day. Which brings me to....the support from my husband and our family. I don't know if I would still be standing if it weren't for our family! From the second we brought Evangeline home from the hospital to this very day, I have felt nothing but loved and supported by everyone. They love our baby girl as much as we do. She is so lucky to grow up surrounded by this much love and so are we.

I need my husband's support. Tison has never questioned my mothering. I can't tell you how wonderful it is to know that he trusts me- even when I'm not sure I should trust myself. He believes in my motherly instincts and not only tells me that I'm a good mother, but never questions my abilities. We are learning together and it is the most challenging and bonding thing we have ever done together. He is an amazing dad and husband.

I never thought I could love this much- with my whole heart. instantly and always.

Sometimes I look at her and I can't believe she is mine... for like- ever...

Not everyone wants to see baby pictures (even though it is the most adorable baby photo in the entire world and they are really going to miss out)
Running errands with a baby carrier is kind of the worst and is biggest ordeal.

Things I never thought I'd say:

That purple tube of lanolin is the best! Am I right?
Can you give me just a minute I have spit up in my hair?

I'm going to be about 15 more minutes - I need to pump.

Sorry, she's hungry. We're all girls right? (as I pull my shirt off)

Is that your baby's poop or mine? (smelling a stinky diaper)

Oh, these Target nursing tanks are a-mazing. I wear them every day.
I can have another scoop of ice cream. I'm nursing.

Whoo-hoo! I pumped like 8 ounces!

Oops, I forgot to brush my teeth.
Tison- I just feel asleep in the bath tub!

Do I have my breast pump, bottles, nipples, bottle caps, burp cloth, bib, pacifier, extra set of clothes, matching headband, socks, shoes, snack for mom, car keys, wallet, my sanity??

Side note: You know I have taken a million pictures and it was really really hard for me to narrow this down, so expect a million more soon. I am trying to get back in the routine of blogging! Thanks for understanding my hiatus :)

the most beautiful shower I have ever seen...

2014-01-31T13:43:00.000-06:00

My baby shower was more enchanting than I could have even imagined. The a football team of hostesses made every detail special from the entry way with a chandelier to mimic the nursery to having items that were in mine and my sisters childhood scattered around the venue to find like Easter eggs. Each table's centerpiece contained a diaper cake and a baby photo of Justin or me. They even went to my Pinterest account and took some things I had pinned and incorporated them into the decorations! I am so fortunate to have such amazing, thoughtful and talented ladies in my life that share with me their generosity and love. I cannot wait for baby girl to meet all of these beautiful women that are a constant inspiration to me. How very blessed we are...

{Thank you to Mrs. Mary Beth and Roxanne for taking such lovely pictures of the shower!}

We are ready for your sweet girl - we can't wait to meet you any day now!!

{check out Lauren's shower for Hudson here}

Our Christmas in a photo nutshell...

2014-01-15T17:31:00.000-06:00

I really didn't intend to take such a long blogging hiatus, but when you are 36 weeks pregnant some other things take precedent I suppose! Before a whole month goes by, let me share my 2013 Christmas pictures with y'all.

Our tradition holds strong - Christmas Eve we went to Mass at St. Joseph's then to my Mom's house for clam chowder and present opening. Since Les didn't come in until Jan. 13th and this was Lauren and David's year in New Roads, I got a clear idea of what Christmas would be like as an only child! Weird!

{baby girl got Christmas presents too! Those little pink booties made me cry they are so sweet.}

{Mr. T got his own stocking this year! *to be monogrammed}

We ended the night watching The Grinch. The next morning Tison and I exchanged gifts from each other at our house. Our first Christmas as a married couple and in our new home :) So special. Can't wait to use that video camera on baby girl!

On Christmas Day we went to the Tison's house for lunch and they were so kind to invite my parents to lunch as well.

I can't believe next Christmas will be shared with our little girl!!!! I am just so thankful this is all happening.

The next weekend when Lauren, David, and the boys had returned from down south - we celebrated Christmas with them and the grandparents and Mr. Sandi!

Now that Leslie and Cuan are in town, I am sure we will do another Christmas celebration with them and I'm not complaining! Who really wants the Christmas season to end? Not me!

Christmas spirit made with gingerbread...

2013-12-23T14:06:00.001-06:00

Thanks to Mrs. Flanagan, I was able to decorate a gingerbread house this year while being surrounded by very creative young ladies. Every year during the holidays she invites girls over to her beautiful home for gingerbread decorating and a fellowship lunch; it is such a wonderful treat and really helps me get in the Christmas spirit.

{We each brought some candy or something to decorate the houses with - do you think we had enough??}

{I was so impressed with these ladies ideas for decorating! Everyone's houses were so different.}

{An additional perk to the afternoon activity was that I got to finally meet baby Slattery! She is such a precious little gal.}

{Sarah, Mrs. Flanagan and I were the last to finish decorating our houses. Who really wants to stop? That's mine up there on the top right. My husband and I have already eaten all of the gumdrops and quite a few m&ms...if you haven't decorated a gingerbread house yet this year you should really get on it- It is loads of fun!}

let's get tacky!!!

2013-12-16T17:25:00.000-06:00

Some girlfriends and I decided a tacky Christmas sweater party was just needed this year. We all put on our finest tacky gear and came together for some gumbo and holiday cheer.

The Tisons supplied the piggies in a blanket and the Little Debbie Christmas tree cakes. We also rocked our tacky Christmas sweaters that we made 3 years ago!

Why are these two so excited? Because they just won a buffet lunch for 2 at Golden Corral for being the tackiest (and most creative) people at the party!

Stay tacky my friends.

on our first date of christmas...

2013-12-12T15:51:00.002-06:00

This is our second year to do 12 dates of Christmas inspired by lovetaza and marci. So, now we can official call it our 2nd Annual "Dates of Christmas" (because there is no such thing as a 1st annual, people -no matter how many times it is used incorrectly.) This year we kicked it off by completing our outdoor lights at the new house and driving around the neighborhood looking for lighting ideas for next year, as well as making sure we weren't outdone by too many houses. ;)

After driving around listening to the XM Holiday Traditions station and admiring twinkle lights, we returned home to finish the last season of Fringe in the warm glow of lights on the mantle. After discussing the 5 seasons we watched together over the last few years, we went into the den - which we have formally renamed the "Christmas room" - where Tison read books to the belly. I think baby girl really liked it.

Here are a few pictures of our "Christmas room" decorating process:

Putting this village out every year really adds that Christmas warmth to the home. Since we (my sisters and I) have been collecting them since I was in elementary school - they have been a part of our Christmas tradition for what seems like forever. Every year when I pull them out of their little boxes I find something new that love about them. While we used to set up all of our village collections in one room at my parents, we have all taken our little part of the metropolis to our own homes. However, these houses make me call upon Christmas' past and gazing upon them always gives me that childlike feeling of Christmas.

Let It Snow, Let It Snow, Let It Snow...

2013-12-11T17:12:00.000-06:00

After looking back at other office Christmas parties, I am realizing that my mom gifting me with holiday frocks is becoming more and more of a tradition! As I have a bigger challenge than usual this year with a 29 week baby bump to cover- my mom pulled through again with an ebay find. I really loved this navy blue dress. Bonus of the night- Katie came in from New Orleans for the work party even though she has been gone for 2 months now, it feels like she is just taking a long vacation and hasn't actually left the dept.! I just love this girl.

{how stunning is my mother! I can't wait to borrow that dress too! Jill and Daniel really hammed it up for the camera... those 2 cuties.}

Since I never quite made it to the food tables, I stopped at Sonic on the way home for a little "snack" at 10:30 and it started SNOWING! Yes, snowing. I drove home and Tison and I stuck our tongues out and ate some snow- cause, that's what you're supposed to do right?

Hope everyone is making their list and checking it twice- we are 14 days away from Christmas!

thanksgiving 2013: my plate runneth over...

2013-12-10T16:07:00.000-06:00

We celebrated an early Thanksgiving with the Tison family because the cousins, Megan, Cody, and Madison, were in from Baton Rouge the weekend before. Mr. Tim made a southern style crawfish etouffee that was the perfect amount of spicy for my palate. On the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, also known as Friendsgiving, we made dirty rice (our contribution to the Thanksgiving meal) and had a few friends over for a backyard fire chat.

Thanksgiving morning we had coffee with the Tisons and then went over to Mom and Dad's house for the big feast. I had asked Mom to leave some things for me to help her with, but I'll let you guess what the counter tops looked like when we arrived.

{this is literally the most amazing turkey in the entire world.}

{my plate runneth over}

{yes, there I am 28 weeks preggo- we're gettin' big here people.}

{Hudson got a "special treat" from Dee Dee- a turkey sucker - and barely left the village room because of the train. He couldn't take his eyes off of it!}

*return with us now to Thanksgiving's of yesteryear*