Fresh Mommy

Rest

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 13:13:00 +0000

This is where I'll be today.

I've finally made it home, after leaving my hotel room in Phoenix at 10pm last night. These last few days have definitely taken a toll on my body, even though I've been able to slip in a little extra rest here and there. With just over 10 weeks left in this pregnancy, I'm beginning to see a difference in what I can and can't do, physically.

Now I'm here, snuggled close to my sweet little girl, who woke up extra early with her daddy to come greet me. Their embraces were divine. The sight of them was such that all the weariness from the days away just vanished, and my only thought was to savor this moment.

So, here I'll rest. Between unpacking, laundry, re-packing and tickle-fights, rest is what my body needs. Rest, and lots of kisses from the loves of my life.

Sunday Citar

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 08:00:00 +0000

Have you come across a quote that inspired you? Or made you think? Maybe it made you smile. Or reminded you of someone special? Or maybe none of the above, but you just liked it. Well, share it! It's time for Sunday Citar!

“There's nothing half so pleasant as coming home again.”
~Margaret Elizabeth Sangster

In a few hours, this is where I will be... in the air and on my way home.

Nothing is sweeter.

As my family sleeps tonight, I'll be getting closer to them by the moment, waiting to feel their embrace, waiting to breathe in their heartwarming scent, waiting see their beaming faces.

Nothing is sweeter.

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I would love to have you join the Sunday Citar inspiration and have all of us come to your blog to read what quotes inspire you! Simply write your own post on your blog, link within your post to my blog, and sign up with Mr. Linky below, leaving your name and the link directly to your Sunday Citar post. Just click here if any of that sounds confusing. There you'll be able to get the complete rundown, as well as learn how to link back to my blog if you don't already know how. Take a moment a visit a few participants... you'll be glad you did!

Fall Family:: The Keyes

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Sat, 28 Nov 2009 07:01:00 +0000

We truly had such a great time, and a great session with a sweet family. They didn't what to think about some of the things we threw at them, but they went along with it, smiling the whole way! I tried to narrow it down to just a few favs for the blog, but you know how well that goes. Aren't they a gorgeous family!? And they were a joy to work with!

Meet the Keyes.

Most Thankful

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 16:56:00 +0000

For my growing family, our health and our abounding love for each other. Believing you and yours have a blessed and safe Thanksgiving.

*And thanks to the wonderful Briony, my partner in 'crime', for tromping out into the field that cold day to snap a couple pics.*

28 Weeks

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Wed, 25 Nov 2009 04:06:00 +0000

To my Baby Boy Blue,

I can't believe it, you are about the size of a bag of flour! We had our visit with the midwife today, and everything is going perfectly. You are healthy, growing, and a little busy-body. At about 2 1/2 lbs now, you are really showing, and making me feel all the changes my body is going through. We can tell how you are laying in my belly. This week I'll be traveling and I have some good tips from the midwife on flying while keeping you and me healthy at the same time. I guess it's time for you to start working, right? :) At least I'll be spending my Thanksgiving with you, little guy. With all my love... already.

Speechless

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 12:32:00 +0000

A couple of nights ago, while getting my daughter into her bed, she...

well...

didn't really like it.

I know, it's a surprise, right?

She tried all the excuses, but we stood our ground and kissed her goodnight. On nights when she goes to bed on time, it seems that she goes to bed very well. On nights where she's worn out and up later, those seem to be the nights with a little more, shall I say, trouble.

After about ten minutes, we heard a pitter-patter down the hall, and slowly our door began to open. Aliyah stepped just inside our room and with a shy smile, announced, "I've changed my attitude. Love you, goodnight."

With that, she was gone and back into bed.

We both looked at each other, astonished, and proud. Sometimes our three-year-old leaves us speechless.

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Sun, 22 Nov 2009 03:15:00 +0000

It's time to share a quote or two... a favorite, a new find, a laugh inducing or tear inducing quote you love this week! Sunday Citar is here again!

“Seek the wisdom of the ages, but look at the world through the eyes of a child.”
~Ron Wild

Here's a sneak peak from yesterday's photoshoot, and this little guy was definitely interested in watching everything. I snapped this while we were having a conversation about all kinds of things... just hearing and seeing the world through his eyes.

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It's Friday

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 19:48:00 +0000

And because it's overcast today, and we (at Relish Studios) have a gorgeous family to photoshoot tomorrow, and because I need a short break from designing/editing and because I have a bridal shower to attend tonight, here are some completely random pics for you. It's just one of those random days.

1) My daughter is now old enough to bring a "pet" home from school, and so that green "lizard" is her class pet, Max. He gets to stay with us for a week and we are journaling each day with him. Here, she introduced him to her "babies."

2) Since we all (and especially me) will be gone from home so much the end of this month and beginning of December, we decided to put up our Christmas decorations early so that we can enjoy then upon each return home. Although, it was strange setting up our tree without the snow falling outside the window. We did, however, enjoy our traditional hot chocolate in front of the fire and played, and sang, Christmas tunes while decorating.

3) I've been in a bit of a baking mood, and whipped up a large batch of cinnamon rolls recently. Yum.

4) Progress is still happening on the baby's room!

So, that's it for now! Back to work for me. Enjoy your weekend and see you on Sunday for Sunday Citar!

When The Camera Comes Out

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 14:36:00 +0000

As soon as we set up the camera to test the light for the maternity series shot, my little poser came down from her room and stepped right up to position. No asking, no prodding. If I'd asked, I would've had her put clothes on first.

The modesty thing, yeah, we're still working on that.

27 Weeks

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 21:00:00 +0000

Baby Boy Blue,

I feel like you are getting so big! Some days I really do look larger, and then some days smaller... you just move so much and change positions all the time. My body is still practicing contractions, just getting ready for the big day. We are excited to see you again at the ultrasound tomorrow. I can't wait to see how much you've changed since the last one, you're so much bigger now. I'm at the point I can say that you're starting to make me walk funny. Whenever we shop, your sister wants to get something for you, and whenever I eat, she asks me, "Does the baby like it?" She is truly preparing herself to be the best big sister she can be. I'm sure you'll recognize all of us, because we are all talking to you so much more... we just can't wait to see that cute little face of yours.

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 12:00:00 +0000

Whew, it's been busy around here at the Fresh Mommy house, as I'm sure it has been around your house as well :)

But in all the wonderful, beautiful chaos of life, we've managed to spend a few of those moments enjoying the vibrancy of the outdoors.

Hope you get a chance to as well!

Oh, and yes, this post is somewhat of a placeholder until I can get my next photo in the maternity series up and ready... coming soon.

Sunday Citar

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 02:25:00 +0000

Have you come across a quote that inspired you? Or made you want to spit? Or made you smile? Or reminded you of someone special? Or reminded you of someone you try not to remember? Well, share it! Sunday Citar was born out of my desire to learn more through what others have said before. You may find it enjoyable to do the same!

“With each sunrise, we start anew”

~Anonymous

This morning we were out a little earlier than usual, and happened upon a beautiful sunrise. It really did start the day off fresh. Aliyah kept repeating, "Oh, WOW, it's so pretty!" It doesn't matter how young, we can all appreciate the beauty of a fresh, new sunrise.

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Doors

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Fri, 13 Nov 2009 01:56:00 +0000

I love doors.

Have you noticed, they can hide a multitude of... messes.

See I can just close the door, walk away, and go on pretending my house is all neat, tidy and orderly.

Good thing there's a door on my laundry room.

But this? This is progress.

The room is getting a makeover, and we're on our way!

We've been finding the big ones...

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 18:24:00 +0000

26 Weeks

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Tue, 10 Nov 2009 12:08:00 +0000

Baby Boy Blue,

This week has been a harder one, I've really felt tired... and we've been really busy. In fact, this weekend I was actually able to get a nap, but I got up early from it to get these pictures. Then I couldn't stop yawning while we were taking them. :) You've been kicking and moving SO much though, and every single time it makes me smile. Your Uncle Jeremy felt you move this week and he talked to you, you'll have fun playing with him. We've finally started the clearing out of your room, and your big sis has been sleeping in her new room for a couple of nights now. She's doing so well, and has been showering you with hugs and kisses this week. It's definitely getting harder to chase her around though, I've been moving a bit slower this week. We all are thrilled that you've entered our lives, and daily we wonder what life will be like with you in it. We can't wait to meet you and see what kind of personality you have! Right now, you're such a little tumbler.

today:: november 9

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Mon, 09 Nov 2009 03:02:00 +0000

today, I am...

looking:: forward to a house full of friends and family tonight.

making:: a huge batch of cinnamon rolls for tonight from the dough I made last night.

admiring:: the fact that Aliyah loved her last round of swim lessons, and learned how to accomplish every single task.

getting:: ready to post my 26 week photo to the maternity series tonight.

excited:: that today I'm 27 weeks along in this pregnancy.

contemplating:: the fact that today I'm 27 weeks pregnant, and still have so much to do to get ready.

happy:: that my girl has had her first two nights in her new room and big bed... peacefully (even when Dolce doesn't stay in there very long).

proud:: of my husband, all the wonderful, healthy meals we've been making together and his new, chronicled journey.

trying:: to get some extra rest, in between all the cleaning, laundry, cooking, baking, editing and child-rearing... we'll see what gets done and what gets sacrificed.

hoping:: you all have a very blessed and fulfilling day ahead of you!

Sunday Citar

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 04:00:00 +0000

It's time to share a quote or two... a favorite, a new find, a laugh inducing or tear inducing quote you love this week! Sunday Citar is here again!

"The best things in life are the nearest: Breath in your nostrils, light in your eyes, flowers at your feet, duties at your hand, the path of right just before you. Then do not grasp at the stars, but do life's plain, common work as it comes, certain that daily duties and daily bread are the sweetest things in life."

~Robert Louis Stevenson

Sometimes the sweetest things are the simplest. We are definitely goal setters and dreamers, but we also try and take the time to enjoy the smallest of moments.

Moments like when we've been out all day, way past nap time and my sweet little angel of a daughter starts having a small breakdown in the car on the way home. I remind her that she's not to throw a fit or she'll have the consequences for it.

In her tired state of mind, she cries, "I don't want the consequences, but I do want to throw a fit."

She ended up making a good choice, and I'm glad she did. I've also definitely felt those moments before, those moments where I'd just like to throw a fit.

The whole scenario just made me laugh.

So, remember to enjoy the good, the bad, the fussy, the happy, the tired, the energetic... all the moments life brings.

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Nursery Inspiration

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 04:49:00 +0000

This weekend will be the baby shower for my new great-neice, a little bundle of joy who has already graced us with her presence. So a fun shower it will be, with the baby in attendance and all!

And with that theme of little one's on the way, we were ecstatic the moment we found out we are having a boy... and kept trying to narrow down colors and themes for the new nursery we get to plan!

When I came across the photo of a sweet, sleeping baby on a bed of orange and white, and covered by stripes of blue, orange and brown, I knew I had found my inspiration. Let the shopping begin!

You may have seen the different Nursery Inspiration Boards that have popped up over at Hostess with the Mostess and StrollerTraffic. Well, I decided to get to work on my own.

I was excited to learn a new nursery trend is one of our favorite animals here in the FreshMommy house... the giraffe!

I wanted to share my finds with you, and below are links and explanations to the products shown above, in case you find yourself interested in anything!

Bedding and Materials:

The baby photo is where my original inspiration came from, thank you Pinkle Toes! Upon learning that the orange and white print is actually an organic duvet cover from Pottery Barn, I ordered one right away to use as material. I'm pleased to announce that it's as cute in person as it looks in the photo. The other bedding is an adorable new set available from Serena and Lily, though it ranks a little outside of the price range we were shooting for. So I'm using it as inspiration and we're making our own! Well, I'm not actually making it, a friend is a seamstress and she'll be the one actually sewing the crib bedding out of the materials I collect.

Wall Art:

The completely adorable Gerry Giraffe and Mary Monkey Wall Graphic and the Safari Block Elephant Giraffe Rhino Decal will tie in perfectly.

Pillows:

Both from Dwell Studio, the Giraffe Pillow and the Gio Aqua Boudoir Pillow.

Plush Toys:

We stocked up on some fun plush toys from Ikea this summer for Aliyah's Birthday Party and have quite a few quirky toys stored away from the Barnslig Series.

Coin Bank:

I can't wait to get this sleek little Giraffe Coin Bank.

Prints:

I may end up making something similar to this Giraffe Silhouette Print, and a couple matching prints to go along with it. I, however, love this Binth Alphabet Poster as is, and would love to order it.

Wall Mobile:

We made Aliyah's mobile, and are planning on making Baby Boy Blue's as well. What I wasn't expecting, was to find a cute, modern wall mobile that would go perfectly in the new nursery. I think I'll still make it, it just might look a little like the Oras Wall Mobile.

Rocker:

We'll be re-using the Rock-A-Bye Rocker and Ottoman set from Babies-R-Us that we used nightly with our baby girl.

Furniture:

If I didn't already have a white crib and changing table to use, I would run out and get the Dwell Studio Silver Crib and Changing Table from Target.

And of course, besides the crib sheets, some extra pillows and blankets for around the room will be made with that organic duvet cover from Pottery Barn.

I think we're off to a happy, fun, colorful start.

Always Be My Baby...

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 14:00:00 +0000

and my morning cuddle bug.

Admiring Autumn:: The Color Red

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 15:27:00 +0000

I just had to step out on my back deck this morning and get a few shots of what's left of the leaves on our Japanese Maple. The tree is nestled just outside, in perfect view from our kitchen window and the color during the fall is so intensely beautiful. It's a great companion to cooking and washing dishes. Because of the extra chilly temperatures we've been having, there are only a few leaves left in place. We'll see how long they can hold out for us to enjoy.

25 Weeks

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 13:00:00 +0000

Baby Boy Blue,

Our due date for you has been officially changed by a week... so it may be another week before we see you. We can't wait to hold you, see you and touch you, but I'm also so infatuated by you even in my belly that it doesn't really matter much. The appointments with our midwife, whom you will meet someday soon, says you are doing very well, and you're healthy. We love hearing that strong heartbeat. Every day it seems that I get hungrier and hungrier and you seem to move more and more. I can't sit or lay still without you rolling, tumbling and kicking. Your big sister puts her hand on my stomach now to feel you move, and of course daddy loves to feel you too. Today, Aliyah was talking to you and then just started blowing raspberries on my belly. It made us both laugh so hard, she just kept doing it. I'm sure you heard us, and we're excited for you to join in on the fun. Oh, and this week I've been picking out fabric, materials and blankets for your new room... it's been so much fun!

Sunday Citar

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Sun, 01 Nov 2009 04:08:00 +0000

The Sunday Citar fun is here again! Share your favorite quote, a new find or something that just strikes your fancy. I can't wait to see what you all have to add to the mix this week.

“Some people are making such thorough preparation for rainy days that they aren't enjoying today's sunshine.”
~William Feather

I certainly hope you're enjoying your days of rain and sunshine. This quote says so much really, but in the literal sense, we made sure to take advantage of the break in rain, even though it was still cold, and enjoy the outdoors for a few hours with friends and family!

And we all enjoyed the preparation too... well, most of it :)

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Not As Far As We Thought

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 18:41:00 +0000

As of my last ultrasound it looks like Baby Boy Blue is measuring just a wee bit small, like by 5-7 days on average smaller than what our original due date was guestimated to be.

And well, anyone who's had a child knows that due dates are really just all about guesses and averages and measurements and such.

So, this week we had an appointment with our midwife and all still is going wonderfully! And though she said it really didn't matter too much, it was decided to "officially" move our due date back a week so that any physicians in the office wouldn't question why we weren't inducing if I end up holding out a wee bit longer. So our due date for Baby Boy Blue went from being February 5, 2010 to February 12, 2010.

This all worked out perfectly on a long, busy weekend, followed by a long, busy week where we were without a camera for part of it and never got around to taking our maternity series photo. I've lazily caught up to where my due date is now officially supposed to be. So when I post the next maternity series photo, I'll just be finishing up that week in the pregnancy.

And I may just have an extra week of my bundle of joy all bundled up in my belly!

Our Trip

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 02:22:00 +0000

Just one of the five... count them, one, two, three, four, five photos we took before the camera battery died and we were without a camera for the rest of our trip.

Well, except for the few photos taken with the camera on my phone and shared here on twitter.

At least this photo is of THE animal that Aliyah wanted to see. She was excited listing off all the other animals at the zoo, but would just about burst when talking about the giraffes. Excited enough to drag her father through the park a second day so that she could see them again. You have to imagine my excitement when I came upon the cutest, softest, squishiest (is that a word?) little stuffed animal of a giraffe to bring back from work with me after hearing of her second trip to see these long-necked mammals.

I gave it to her at just the right moment, just as we began our drive home, with enough time for her to flash a huge smile, utter a small thank you, snuggle it right up to her cheek and proceed to fall asleep for the entire ride.

I just love giraffes.

Morning

freshmommy@me.com (Fresh Mommy) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 15:49:00 +0000

How I start most mornings, a steaming cup or organic pregnancy tea. This morning it was quite a bit later than usual, since my girl and I actually slept in until 10:30... I don't ever remember that happening... ever. Although with the amount of sleep we all clocked in this weekend, I'm not surprised.

Oh, and this week's maternity photos will be up sometime in the next couple of days, we didn't get a chance to take them this weekend while we were out of town with no camera.

Well, we did have a camera, just no camera battery, but it was all good!

Here's to the start of a wonderful day, started later than usual... and a wonderful week!