Mrs in Training

Bacon Chicken Pasta

2012-02-15T17:44:00.000-08:00

This was originally called Garlic Chicken Farfalle, but thats a stupid name because I doubled the amount of garlic, and it isn't garlicky at all. But it is amazingly creamy and bacony. You know a recipe is good when it calls for a pound of bacon and heavy whipping cream.

Bacon Chicken Pasta, originally from Cheat Day Cafe.

16 oz. Farfalle pasta
1 c. heavy whipping cream
1lb frozen chicken breasts
3 tablespoons minced garlic
1 Tbsp. pepper
1/2 c. butter
1 lb. bacon, crumpled
1/2 c. shredded Parmesan cheese
1 (12 oz) Lawry’s mesquite marinade with lime juice (I used the Target version)

Put chicken in crock pot with a bottle of marinade on low for 6 hours. Pull marinated chicken out of the juices, allow to cool a little bit, and shred. Set this aside and pour some of the juices on top of shredded chicken for added flavor.

About a half-hour before serving, boil the pasta. In a small saucepan, melt butter, add garlic, whipping cream, pepper, parmesan cheese, and crumpled bacon. Whisk together on low heat for 3-4 minutes until cheese is melted.

In a large bowl, pour over cooked, drained pasta, add chicken and stir through. Sprinkle a little bit more shredded parmesan cheese on top.

Pink blazer

2012-02-15T12:14:00.000-08:00

There are apparently three types of women when it comes to breastfeeding. Those that lose the baby weight, those that lose the baby weight and then a ton of extra weight, and those that keep on an extra 15 pounds until they wean, and then lose it.

I've kept on the extra 15. And surprisingly, for the most part I'm pretty okay with it. Since breastfeeding has made me very top heavy, I actually think I look better being a little more well balanced as a whole, if I'm going to be stuck with these boobs. However, after spending the last 20 years dressing a thin frame with small hips, no butt, and no boobs, I'm still struggling to figure out what looks flatter this body. I used to live in dresses year round, but since I'm too busy/cheap/tired to get them all taken in as would look best, I've turned to separates. My current style is pretty much the same every day. If I'm not in workout clothes (remember, I work from home everyday), then I'm in skinny jeans, booties, a tank and a black blazer (for running errands). I cycle between several different tanks and blouses, and switch up the shoes, but the black blazer has been my staple.

I'm tired of the black blazer. I'm tired of winter, and I need color. Enter: the pink blazer. Its been making its rounds on the fashion blogs, especially the Zara version, for a year? two? and I doubt it'll be around much longer, so I scooped an H&M version for under $20.

I'm boring today for a trip to Target.

And I thought about grabbing a cute clutch for the pictures, but lets be serious - this kid needs toys, diapers, snacks, and a million other things - I barely cram it all in my massive diaper bag, and this thing is almost as big as I am.

But I'm excited about wearing this more in Spring, when its time for skirts and brighter colors! (And Mystic Spray Tans, yikes!)

Please tell me that I'm not the only one that has a "fashion show" of trying on combinations of outfits when you bring home something new!

Blazer - H&M. Tee - Target. Jeans - Gap. Heels - ShoeDazzle. Purple tank - Target. White skirt - Express. Diaper bag - Kate Spade.

Sleeping beauties

2012-02-12T05:43:00.001-08:00

I am exhausted. It has been a long week of very late nights and very early mornings, and I am a girl who needs a solid 9 hours every night.

Last night, we picked up a couple that we are good friends with, then dropped Guinevere off at my parents' house, and headed out for a fun night of dinner and drinks. Except that everything had finally caught up to me, and I was completely beat. After dinner, I proposed calling it a night, and was solidly vetoed to a chorus of suggestions to order a Red Bull. And so I did. It didn't help. Then, miraculously, the bar called last call at 11pm, and we headed off to my parents' to get Guinevere and head home. And no matter how many times I whine about needing a night out, or complain about how much work it is to be a mother, there is an undescribable feeling when you pick up that sleepy, snuggly babe. Was she good? Did she miss me? Did she cry/eat all her dinner/poop? What did you do? I feel relieved that she was so good...sad that I missed out on putting her to bed...anxious to get her in my arms, and back in my care.

We probably hadn't made it half a mile down the road, on our way to drop off our friends, when I passed out in Guinevere's lap (rearfacing carseat), holding her hand. And my sweet friend snapped a picture, and emailed it to me last night. Its blurry and dark, and I absolutely love it.

*First time posting from my new Samsung Galaxy S2*

Nursery changes

2012-02-09T12:57:00.000-08:00

Since I've got the home-renovation bug bad, I have been really amped to finally make some progress this spring/summer on updating our home.

The first room in our house that was every truly done was Guinevere's nursery.

I'm still madly in love with her room, and its gotten some pretty amazing exposure, so I guess some other people like it too. It was shown on Bryn Alexandra, Nest Design Studio, and Baby Lifestyles (which included a pretty neat interview, too). Last November, it was picked by Jillian Harris (girl crush!) as her Room of the Month. I also have seen it pop up on Pinterest which is super, super flattering.

But, as perfect as that room was for a baby...it doesn't quite look the same anymore. We've had to make changes for our "pre-toddler" (because I'm positive she'll be toddling in a month or two!) Its still my favorite room in the house, but I need to figure out a way to make it both chic and kid-friendly.

The canopy was the first to go. We loved the airy chiffon curtains that my mother sewed, but we were nervous about her being able to reach and grab some of the fabric, and the metal base potentially being able to fall on her head. I think some of those wall-mounted curtain tiebacks would work perfectly to keep it up, and out of her reach, but I haven't found any I like yet.

In light of the sitting and pulling herself to standing, the crib was lowered. She also now has a lovey in there, and her Sleep Sheep sound machine. The mobile is also new, although I rarely use it, so should probably add it to my blog sale page.

We read a lot, but I'm trying to get better about a nighttime routine, so there are some books on the end table that help me remember to do two stories before bedtime. And, since I do 99% of my nursing while at home in this rocker still, the Boppy stays put for easy access :)

The shelf above the changing table has become a dumping ground for her weekly onesie stickers, and I added a canvas that her aunt made her that says "G - est 2011". We also keep lotion out on the table now, since she seems to have really dry skin (is that normal for babies in Winter? I know its normal for me...), and then at the far left you can see her Noah's Ark nightlight from her godparents.

The closet is pretty much the same...just much bigger clothes :(

Hairbow storage moved from the closet to the back of the door - makes it much easier for me to see all of them and pick one out :)

Guinevere's Aunt Candra made the frame with the ribbons for her clips, and the organizer underneath has little clothespins for all of her pre-made hairbows. I LOVE how organized this keeps everything!!

How did time so quickly go from her very first nap in the crib:

To her being able to stick her legs out the side and stand up in it?

Slow down, baby...

PS - new things listed on my Blog Sale page...a swing, bathtub, bathseat, bouncy chair, purse, crib sheet....check it out.

Our Love Story

2012-02-07T07:15:00.000-08:00

Linking up with Mrs to Mama!

1. How long have you and your significant other been together?

We first started dating in 2000, and broke up for a year-ish in college, but stayed very close, and were back together for good at the end of 2005.

2. How did you meet?

We were 16. Tyler was a busboy at Don Pablos, and I left my number and email under my plate, along with my five other friends that were at dinner with me. I had a boyfriend at the time, and had every intention of setting Tyler up with a girl I knew. But we became friends, and months later, we became inseparable.

3. If married, how long have you been married?

It will be four years this summer. Time has flown!

4. If you are married, where did you get married at? Big or small wedding?

It was a big wedding, and while it was nothing like I'd ever envisioned for myself, the end result was perfect - I'm married :)

5. Do you have any nick-names that you call one another? Do share!

We both say Babe. We are boring.

6. Name 3 things you love most about your honey.

He is hilarious, and cracks me up, even when I'm furious at him. He is kind and compassionate, even to a fault sometimes. And he is a phenomenal husband and father - he takes care of us girls (dogs included!), and loves us unconditionally.

7. Tell us how he proposed? Or your ideal proposal?

We went to a white tie Debutante Cotillion over Thanksgiving. He'd planned on proposing there, in front of a beautiful Cinderella-esq carriage. He asked me how I felt about being proposed to in front of people. I'm picturing him grabbing a microphone and telling the whole room how much he loved me. And I figured he was kidding, and told him it was a dumb idea since we didn't even know anyone there. Later, a friend's dad kept taking pictures of us in front of the carriage, and encouraging us to "try a new pose." He missed the memo that his photography skills were no longer needed for a proposal, since Tyler thought I'd hate his idea! I teased him later that during those photos, he should have proposed, at which point all he could do was stare at me. Classic us - total miscommunication!

So, now I knew it was coming, and his actual proposal was ten times better. We were 16 when we first started dating, and since 16 year olds don't have much to do at night, we'd hang out at the playground by his house. After dating for two months, I was still waiting for the first kiss, and one night slid down the slide, where he was waiting at the bottom, hand on each side, leaned over...and walked away. Chicken. I've teased him for years about ruining a perfect first kiss. So November 25th, he took me back there to recreate the moment - and he was waiting on one knee.

8. Is he a flowers and teddy bear kind of guy for v-day, or strawberries, champagne, and rose petals?

He's a I did the dishes and got up with the baby last night kinda romantic ;)

9. Are you a sunset dinner on the beach kind of girl, or pop a movie in and relax on the couch?

Of those choices, sunset dinner on the beach, but I'd much rather a dressy night out in DC ;)

10. Tell us one thing you'd like to do with your significant one day. If you could do anything? Go anywhere?

Travel! We never got a honeymoon, and while we got to go to Puerto Rico twice last year, I was pregnant, so I spent a lot of time not feeling well. I'd love to travel with him now that we're done having kids!

11. Tell us what you plan on doing on this Valentine's Day.

My birthday is the 26th, so Tyler is combining the two and taking me out on the 24th. I'll keep you posted ;)

12. Are you asking for anything this Valentine's day?

We don't usually do gifts for any holidays. But Tyler - feel free to stalk my Pinterest Birthday wishlist board ;) http://pinterest.com/mrs_in_training/birthday-wishlist/

Source: homedecorators.com via Kelly on Pinterest

13. Give us one piece of advice of keeping a relationship strong and full of love.

Communication. If something upsets you - talk about it. Forgive. Compromise. Watch the action movie when you're in the mood for a romantic comedy. Laugh. Never let your relationship grow settled or stale.

14. Show us a picture of what love means to you.

Dear Monday,

2012-02-06T06:39:00.000-08:00

Love,
The Johnson Family

Great Room status

2012-02-03T12:05:00.000-08:00

While organizing my pictures, I came across pictures of our living room from when we moved in, in 2008.

Looking back, I hate that yellow paint SO much and it makes me super happy that we've repainted it!

And now:

Normally, I walk downstairs and think about how much work we still have to do in here, but when I look back - its SO much better!

Our current "To Do" list:

We're about to undergo a kitchen renovation, which will require new crown molding. Since its all one large room, this room will get new crown molding, too.

The ceiling fan looked great with the old furniture and yellow paint, but now this room needs something a lot more sleek.

The four small frames, end tables, crystal bead lamps, and most shelf decor is all borrowed from my office. All of it needs to be back in my office, stat, and I need a new coffee table/end tables, and really bold lamps. I also need to find some awesome artwork with much larger frames to go on the back wall.

The three windows need some sort of wooden plantation shutters, they need to be framed in, I need a large curtain rod going over all three of them, and I need to find some awesome curtains that won't compete with the new, busy rug.

We originally bought 8" taper legs for the sofa, stained them a rich brown, and put them on the couch. They were crazy sexy. And then one of them bent and snapped off (wahhh!) so we need to find a better way to attach them. Because really, when you put them side by side - there is NO comparison!

And before anyone asks:
Entertainment Center, Ikea
Couch, Ikea
Coffee Table, Target
Rug, Home Goods
Pillows, TJ Maxx
Ceiling Fan, Lowes

And for the other side of the room:

Get rid of pretty much everything there now, add in these two chairs from Home Decorators, find an end table and lamp, and do a giant gallery wall of pictures. I think we'll then need to do something in the far right corner (where Guinevere is currently chilling in her jumperoo), but I want to wait until I get the furniture in there, to see how much room we actually have to work with.

New Years Resolution: Complete this room before Guinevere's first birthday party.

Pinterest Obsession

2012-02-03T06:16:00.000-08:00

There just aren't enough words to express how much I love Pinterest.

Since this is my birthday month, I should share my birthday wishlist board with you all (*ahem, mom) haha. I love being able to come across something on the internet, and save it in one place. This worked really well for Christmas, and my mom got all of my presents off of my Pinterest board ;)

Source: jcrew.com via Kelly on Pinterest

No words necessary. These are perfection. I'd wear them everyday.

Source: amazon.com via Kelly on Pinterest

I'm a big fan of slings, and I'd love to have a ring sling. I love the olive color.

Source: thelifeofryley.com via Kelly on Pinterest

I have an unhealthy obsession with faux bois, and these dog bowls would look awesome in our kitchen.

Source: vonny.com via Kelly on Pinterest

For all the times I bring along a dish, this casserole carrier is genius.

Source: shop.nordstrom.com via Kelly on Pinterest

Love the pattern of this cuff - it would be so fun to dress up or down.

Source: saksfifthavenue.com via Kelly on Pinterest

I'm already spoiled with a David Yurman necklace and bracelet, but dear Tyler, if you give me these I promise to never take them off!

Do you pin? What's your handle? I'd love to follow you!

Calendar Girl

2012-02-02T09:10:00.000-08:00

I really don't want to turn this into a "zomg Guinevere!" blog, but today, thats all I've got :)

My favoritest photographer ever, Christina from C+C Marriage Factory, did a photo shoot of Guinevere in December so that we could have calendars made for family. And I'm so so so in love with all of them. So in honor of a new month...

January

February

March

April

May

June

July

August

September

October

November

December

What I'm Loving

2012-02-01T12:23:00.000-08:00

I'm linking up with Jaime for What I'm Loving Wednesday.

The incredibly warm DC weather that inspired me to buy a jogging stroller:

Any little girl's clothes that are smocked, bubble, bishop, angel wing or monogrammed. Hi, my name is Kelly, and I'm addicted to buying my baby dresses.

(Three recent purchases)

That not one, but FOUR of my dearest friends are pregnant! Not only does that mean lots of playmates soon for Guinevere, but I have people to pawn off baby clothes onto :)

This chair - and I need two for my living room, stat.

Source: homedecorators.com via Kelly on Pinterest

These sunglasses - after all, my birthday is in 25 days :)

Source: net-a-porter.com via Kelly on Pinterest

And always, my sweet little girl.

GOTD - White Poodle

2012-02-01T09:19:00.000-08:00

I've always been drawn to any clothes featuring fluffy white puppies, and this outfit is one of my favorites. Guinevere probably wears this one at least once a week - usually together, but sometimes the lace tutu leggings with a different top. It makes me sad how quickly she is outgrowing it!

She's always on the move these days, and is impossible to keep in one place. Crawling, rolling, pulling herself up - we are in for quite the adventurous kid!

Good thing we bought a new rug ;)

Mustang Cake

2012-01-31T05:39:00.000-08:00

If you invite me to a party, my first question will be "Can I make the cake?" I am far from a pro, but its been something fun for me to practice, so until the day I have time to take a class, I pester friends and family to let me handle the cake.

For example, my next door neighbor recently turned one, so I demanded to make the smash cake:

Thank you, Pinterest, for inspiring me to make roses on top of cakes.

And when my goddaughters had a princess party, it was not negotiable that I was going to bring a sugar castle. Darn cell phone picture:

So when my aunt called to invite us over for my uncle's 50th birthday party, I obviously staked a claim on the cake. This family is incredibly important to me, and it was the least I could do, so I decided to model it after his beloved Mustang:

I happily spent all Friday baking and shaping out the car, and had just put a layer of red fondant over top when Tyler walked in the door from work. And he promptly started laughing, said he could do better, and offered to help. So we spent the next day working together on the cake, and I think it turned out pretty darn awesome!

Uncle John with his cake:

And of course, my girl watching all the action (being held by Uncle John's mother):

Happiest of happy birthdays, Uncle John. To another wonderful 50 years!

PS - I know you're dying to see my first attempt. Don't hate too hard, I didn't get close to finishing, and by the time I thought to take a picture, I'd already ripped off the hubcaps and details ;)

Yeah.

Accomplishment.

2012-01-30T12:40:00.000-08:00

For the first time since before Guinevere was born, my Google Reader is clear. The horrible OCD in me has been going NUTS seeing "1000+ unread items" and I have actually gone through all of them (and deleted a ton of blogs). It feels good starting fresh, and finally getting to devote the love and attention that all of you deserve :)

So any new must reads for me? If I haven't commented on your posts, then for some reason I haven't added you to my Reader yet, so definitely link me up to your blog as well :)

PS, if you have your blog only show a preview in Google Reader, and force me to click over to your blog to read it, I hate you, and now I just don't read you at all. I'm talking to you, Cupcakes and Cashmere, What I Wore, etc etc. Jerks.

GOTD - Pretty in Pink

2012-01-30T08:35:00.000-08:00

Guinevere is really weird in clothing sizes. For pajamas, she is in 6-9 months, which would make me think she is tall (except that she is apparently only 10th percentile for height?) but she can still fit into a few of her 0-3 dresses. This dress is a Carter's 3 month, and while its pretty short, it still fits well around her shoulders and torso. It won't take much for her to be taller than her mama, so perhaps Tyler will get the tall daughter he was hoping for?

Oh, and those darling Dopey ears? 100% me (and my father). Luckily, we both grew into them, so I'm confident she will too ;) Considering how much she is a Tyler mini-me, I just love that she has my ears and my blue eyes!

Buy my shit.

2012-01-26T08:49:00.000-08:00

Since I've had some free time this week (the downside of working independently!), I've been cleaning out the house. Early Spring cleaning, if you will. I have a ton more stuff to post, but this is as far as I got today. I'll keep a page active on my blog here:

If the item is still up on the link above, then its still available. Feel free to make an offer, and depending on size/item, we'll see how cheap/free we can get shipping, too.

Copy and paste of some of my shit:

Beaded Cage Maternity Dress

Bought at Asos for $89
Never worn, still has tags, asking $40

I bought this dress in two sizes because I wasn't sure which one I was, for a bachelorette party. And then I forgot to return it, oops. This is never worn, and says its a US Size 8. I'd say it will fit if you're smaller and have a large chest (E/F and up) or if you're larger and have a small/normal chest. The only part fitted on it is around the breasts/ribcage, since the belly area is large and flowing. I LOVED this dress, and have kept the other size I ordered to lend to pregnant friends ;) Its trendy and fun and not at all stuff and maternity looking.

2 Throw Pillows
Bought at Target for $19.99ea
Asking $20/both

After seeing several home bloggers with pillows from this collection at Target, I had to get them. But then I went and bought an avocado green and gray patterned rug for our great room, so they don't match :( I tried to find somewhere for them in our house, but they just don't match, which makes me sad because I LOVE THEM SO MUCH! Only on our couch for about a week, and I did cut off the tags.

Moby Wrap

Bought at Babies R Us for $44.99
Asking $20

Used maybe 2 times, because I preferred using her stroller when we went out. It is in perfect condition, and I still have the original pouch it came in, box, and user manual. This thing gets stellar reviews from moms; check out Amazon or Babies R Us.

Bugaboo Graco Carseat Adapter

Sells at Bugaboo.com for $44.95.
Asking $20.

Never used by me, I got it from the person I bought my Bugaboo stroller from, and I believe she used it. This adapter will let your Graco carseat fit into either the Bugaboo Cameleon or the Bugaboo Frog.

HipSlimmer

Bought at Amazon for $64
Asking $32.

Everything I read about how relaxin affects a pregnant woman's body sold me on this thing. I was going to wear it EVERY DAY and have hips slimmer than they were before I got pregnant. I took it to the hospital, adamant that I was going to wear it around the clock. I wore it once. I just plain forgot...I got so wrapped up in everything surrounding Guinevere's first few months. So, no review here, but it does get good reviews online!

Tiny Love Super Deluxe Lights and Music Playmat

Sells at Toys R Us for $59.99
Asking $20

Guinevere loved this thing as a baby laying on her back batting up at the toys, and for tummy time to look in the mirror and play with things in front of her. But now that she's mobile, its impossible to keep her on it. This has been gently loved - a few wear marks on the corners and bottom, but music and lights work great, and folds up so conveniently!

Bugaboo Maxi Cosi Carseat Adapter

Sells at Bugaboo.com for $44.95

Asking $20.

This was a lifesaver while out and about - I'd pop them on my stroller frame, pop Guinevere's carseat onto it, and never have to worry about unbuckling her or waking her up. I loved how convenient it was. It will fit both the Cameleon and the Frog.

Michael Antonio Shoes
Bought at ShoeDazzle for $39.95
Asking $25.

I bought these shoes in my typical 7.5, and they were way too big, so I sent them back for a 6.5, and now they are slightly too big, then I forgot to return them. While they say 6.5, these would fit a size 8. Never worn outside of the house.

My Little Lamb Swing
Sells at Babies R Us for $169.99
Asking $75.

This swing is amazing. It will swing forward, and side to side. It works perfectly, and Guinevere loved it, but now that she's crawling and sitting up, she's not interested in laying quietly and contentedly, haha. Perfect for naps, this should be on every mommy's "Must have" list.

Maxi Cosi Carseat and Base
Sells at Babies R Us for $189.99
Asking $60.

I loved this carseat because of how lightweight it was compared to others, I liked the sleek black look (no issues with overheating in summer with Guinevere), and most importantly to me, it fit into my Bugaboo stroller. Note: This is a used carseat. Pretty much every baby book and manual will tell you to NEVER buy a used carseat, and that is true, if you don't know whether or not it has been in a car accident.

I swear on Guinevere's life that this carseat has been treated perfectly - I never even so much as sped with her in the car, let alone any sort of accident/bumping a pole/jumping a curb, etc. Selling it ONLY because she is now in a convertible carseat. This would be great as a second carseat in your husband's car, assuming you'll want yours to fit into your stroller (unless of course, you buy something Maxi Cosi compatible for your stroller!)

(Extra strap in front is if your car has a LATCH system)

Mint Robot Floor Cleaner
I bought on Amazon for $250, now selling for $156.
Asking $100.

We have really dark hardwood floors, and they show every spec of dust, and I hate cleaning them, so we bought this floor cleaner because of the awesome reviews. Its pretty cool how it uses GPS navigation to clean the room, and its really good at working around all of my furniture - I thought for sure my Dining Room would confuse the shit out of it, but it did just fine. The only thing is, if I just wanted one room done, I'd have to block it in there - so I used baby gates. There aren't any little markers or anything that tell it to not go past a point (or if there are, I didn't know how to use them). We have the charging cord, all the little microfiber pads, everything except the original box it came in. I put on the moistened cloth (we used Windex on our hardwoods), would spray a mist of Windex on the floors, and then just pushed one button, and it would knock out a room a day while we were at work.

Zero complaints about performance, we were both really impressed. But, you know whats better than a floor robot? A maid. And now that I've convinced Tyler we need to have cleaning people come to our house every week, we haven't needed to use this in a few months, and its just collecting dust. (har har)

Email me at mrsintrainingblog@gmail.com!

Spinach Lasagna Rolls

2012-01-24T14:31:00.000-08:00

I had this recipe for the first time back when I did Weight Watchers, and its still a favorite. Sometimes I add diced chicken if I have leftovers, but this time I stuck to the original recipe.

I originally found it at C+C Marriage Factory's blog here.

Spinach Lasagna Rolls

Ingredients:
9 lasagna noodles, cooked
10 oz frozen chopped spinach, thawed and completely drained
15 oz fat free ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 egg
salt and fresh pepper
32 oz tomato sauce (recipe follows) - I use jarred sauce.
9 tbsp (about 3 oz) part skim mozzarella cheese, shredded

Directions:
Preheat oven to 350°. Combine spinach, ricotta, Parmesan, egg, salt and pepper in a medium bowl. Ladle about 1 cup sauce on the bottom of a 9 x 12 baking dish.

Place a piece of wax paper on the counter and lay out lasagna noodles. Make sure noodles are dry. Take 1/3 cup of ricotta mixture and spread evenly over noodle. Roll carefully and place seam side down onto the baking dish. Repeat with remaining noodles.

Ladle sauce over the noodles in the baking dish and top each one with 1 tbsp mozzarella cheese. Put foil over baking dish and bake for 40 minutes, or until cheese melts. Makes 9 rolls.

To serve, ladle a little sauce on the plate and top with lasagna roll.

Guinevere's first haircut

2012-01-24T11:17:00.000-08:00

When people tell me to or not to do something, I have a tendency to not listen.

Guinevere's hair has been driving me nuts. She was born with a nice, neat tidy crop of dark brown hair:

But by Christmas, it was this bizzarely stringy, patchy, uneven mess, and it drove me nuts. I have been talking about cutting it off, and everyone acted like I was nuts. But it looked baaad:

Even with bows it was a hot mess.

Finally, I convinced Tyler that "homeless chic" wasn't working anymore, so we plopped her in the bumbo and plugged in the clippers:

And I LOVE IT. I'm so glad I ignored the 63451 people who told me "She's a baby! Its okay if her hair sucks!" because it looks great now. And the best part is confirmation that she is, indeed, going to be a little blondie :)

love.love.love.

Spicy Chicken Rigatoni

2012-01-23T13:09:00.000-08:00

Since I follow at least half of you on Pinterest, and I'm pretty sure all of you pinned this Spicy Chicken Rigatoni recipe, I figured I had to try it.

Source: tastebook.com via Kelly on Pinterest

Delicious! Per usual, I made quite a few changes. Click above for original recipe, my version is below :)

INGREDIENTS

1/4 cup oil
1 Tbs crushed red pepper
1/8 tsp salt
1/8 tsp ground black pepper
1 Tbs chopped garlic
6 oz chicken, roughly chopped into 1" pieces
3/4 cup. Marinara sauce
1/2 cup Alfredo sauce
2 tsp butter
1 lb Rigatoni pasta, cooked according to package directions
additional 1/2 t crushed red pepper (for garnish)

DIRECTIONS

1
In a sauté pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add crushed red pepper, salt, black pepper and garlic and sauté just long enough for garlic to caramelize and red pepper to release flavor into the oil. Add chicken and sauté briefly to coat in spices and garlic.
2
Add Marinara Sauce first and then Alfredo Sauce and bring to a simmer. Cook until sauce thickens slightly and chicken has reached an internal temperature of 165°. Turn off flame, add butter and incorporate into sauce.
3
Place pasta and sauce in pasta bowl, reserving the majority of the chicken to be placed on top of the pasta. Using a rubber spatula, scrape any remaining sauce from the pan to the pasta. Garnish with crushed red pepper and serve.

Letter to my love

2012-01-16T09:24:00.000-08:00

Dear Guinevere,
It feels like only last week that I was trying so desperately to become pregnant with you. And it feels like just yesterday that I was pregnant. I still put my hands on my belly sometimes, remembering your thumps as you rolled around inside me. You were such a wiggle worm, I knew you'd be an active baby.

And you have been. Your new favorite thing is to watch videos of yourself, so we sat down to scan through the 200 some home movies I've taken of you since your birth. My favorite is one that I took around 7am the morning after you were born. Twelve hours old, and we were still in the hospital, waiting for Daddy to come (he'd gone home to keep Holly and Kimchi company), and you're laying in my lap, eyes wide open, looking at at, moving around, making little "smack" noises. Seven month old you loves to shriek and slap the keyboard of my laptop whenever you see the baby version of yourself, and it just blows me away to see how much things have changed.

Every day, I walk into your nursery, still expecting that little snuggle slug baby. But you're laughing, and chattering, sitting up and crawling, playing with toys, eating food, and showing a very strong personality. You can manipulate me so well, and I let you. I complain to Daddy every night about how I don't get anything done, but the truth is, its not your fault - its mine. I'll put you on the blanket to play quietly with your toys, but as I glance over from the dishes, I'm struck with twinges of sentiment, and I rush over to join you. I know these days are numbered. In the blink of an eye, you started saying "mama", and reaching for me. When a stranger touched your foot at Target last week and scared you, you climbed up in my arms and hid your face in my chest.

We started using the Ferber method to get you to go to sleep better, and its been wonderful. You go right down, and the few times you wake up in the middle of the night, you put yourself back to sleep. Unfortunately, by 5am on the dot you are starving, so Daddy brings you to our bed every morning, where I nurse you, and then I pull you up onto my chest for us to nap until the alarm goes off, and its time to take you to daycare.

I also relish every opportunity to nap with you. You're so active and mobile and wiggly during the day, its very rare that you'll sit with me quietly to cuddle, so while you've been doing so wonderful napping in your crib...I've changed things up, and started bringing you to my bed instead. Sometimes I don't sleep, and just watch you, and kiss you, or read my Kindle. But usually, I join you, and I'm always amazed to see how quickly our breathing begins to match. I'm not sure if you mimic me, or I mimic you, but I always wake up to your little chest rising in unison with mine. I adore that. I love that you wake up and lift your head up to look at me...and then smile.

I'm not as good about updating on the blog as I'd like. But I have a little book that a dear friend gave to me that I use as a daily journal for you, and there isn't a single blank page since June 14th. You have completely changed our lives, but more than that - you have completely fit into our lives. We still get to socialize with our friends, we just bring you along. And you usually steal the show, but somehow even our friends that aren't in relationships and DEFINITELY don't have children on their radar remember you. I was blown away this Christmas when three of Daddy's friends bought you Christmas gifts. There was something incredible watching a 29 year old man hand you a pink stuffed elephant, and watching your face light up at the new toy. That is how we know we have true friends. But even when it comes to just us, you seem to like our lifestyle, and go along with us so well. Pre-Guinevere, Daddy and I would have spent yesterday out at the bar, watching the playoff games. And yesterday, we still went to the bar for wings and beer to watch the games...we just brought you along. And puffs, God bless puffs.

And we were there for maybe two hours, without a single tantrum. You were good as gold, then fell asleep in the car on the way home. Then we promptly climbed in bed together for a nice long nap. It was my definition of a perfect day.

There just aren't enough words for how much I love you.

Love,
Mama

Quick Check in

2012-01-09T12:20:00.000-08:00

Holy crap. Life ran up and sucker punched me in the gut and I am STILL trying to recover! Last month was a blur, and as much as I love Christmas, I am really glad that its over. 2011 was a year I'll never forget, but I am SO ready for 2012. Bring it.

So what have I been up to?

Being the mother to a crazy, happy, sassy, fearless baby. She's sitting up on her own, army crawling, and rolling all over the place. She kept beelining for the Christmas tree and all the presents under it. It was adorable, but I didn't have the heart to tell her that none of them were for her. Also, I need a rug. These hardwoods aren't cutting it anymore.

Its also getting impossible to take our weekly pictures. She gets so excited to see Hobbs, she immediately lunges right for him:

Guinevere met Santa. And not just any Santa...THE Santa. The exact same Santa I went to when I was a kid. The Merrifield Garden Center in Merrifield, VA has the best set up - an entire warehouse full of holiday delights. The lines get quite long, but there is so much for kids to do and look at, that the time flies by. My favorite part is how Santa holds a press conference in the beginning to explain that he no longer uses chimneys since NASA made him a polyoxidized magnet mumbo jumbo key that gets him into all houses, and how he has contracts will all major toy manufacturers in the world to make toys. What an incredible experience.

I decorated the house for Christmas. Then yesterday, I undecorated the house for Christmas. And realized I never took a single picture. Fail.

We had Tyler's sisters family over two days before Christmas, and I LOVE seeing Guinevere with her cousins. I think its so fantastic that she'll have built in friends, and hope they are all very close growing up.

We had an amazing Christmas morning at home, just the five of us. I bought Guinevere one gift, so we had her open it, and then just played together until it was time to go to my parent's house. I love that for how many years Christmas was crazy for Tyler and I, we finally figured out a way to enjoy holidays as a new family.

We spent Christmas Day afternoon with my parents. They completely spoiled her, and Guinevere came home with a car full of presents. It was a magical day for Tyler and I, because it was the first time we ever actually saw her play with toys, so that was neat for us. She definitely loved unwrapping them the most though :)

I quit my job. I was with the company for 3.5 years, and they got bought out, downgraded to terrible benefits and insurance, downgraded to terrible maternity leave, took away bonuses, froze raises, etc etc etc. I loved my clients, and I loved my co-workers, but I had a really bad experience with our corporate office, and have decided that I'm going to be a freelance designer. I started a new job last week and I LOVE it. I am so much happier now.

The dogs got groomed with bows to match Miss Guinevere. Which called for a photoshoot, but Holly was less than cooperative.

And I think you're now just about caught up ;) Thanks for sticking around!

Jesus is the reason for the season

2011-12-13T08:16:00.000-08:00

Christmas is a magical time of year. The lights and the decorations, the parties and the presents...its something that we all count down towards. I start looking up holiday cards before Halloween, and go get a tree the second Thanksgiving is over.

But as a Christian, there is an entirely other magical element to this season. This is when everything changed over two thousand years ago. Christmas season marks the beginning of what would become eternal salvation for us. The virgin Mary became pregnant by the Holy Spirit and she gave birth to the son of God, Jesus. 33 years later, Jesus Christ would be crucified, buried, and then rise again to ascend into heaven. His whole purpose of being born was to die for us. And while it was just his physical body - his spirit lives on - what an incredibly difficult decision for God to make. That God loved the world SO much he was willing to give up his only son. An unbelievable sacrifice. He was born, to die, and as a result, my past sins are forgiven, my future sins will be forgiven, and I will get to spend an eternity in Heaven.

But who I've really been thinking of a lot this season is Mary. I guess its that whole new mom thing - identifying and sympathizing more with other mothers. What a horribly traumatic experience. To be pregnant out of wedlock, dealing with initial scorn and skepticism from others, including her betrothed, and later having to witness his death. She's a good woman, engaged to a good man, and one day and angel shows up and tells her that she will conceive, by the Holy Spirit. And yep, she gets to keep her virginity. And not only that miracle, but her son will be King of a neverending kingdom.

At this point, I'd be pinching myself, and trying to figure out who spiked my soup last night. Its all just a lot to take in. Keeping virginity? Visiting angels? Mother to the Son of God? ohhhhkay!

You know what Mary said? "I am the Lord's servant. May your word to me be fulfilled." That's faith. I envy her the ability to completely trust in what was to come. No skepticism, no doubt, no confusion. Pure faith in the Lord. And then, its time for Mary and Joseph to travel to Bethleham for a census. When I was pregnant, most days I couldn't be bothered to go down one flight of stairs to the kitchen - I'd send Tyler to fetch whatever it was I needed. And there isn't a lot of detail in the Bible on their journey, but I can't imagine it was easy. I also can't imagine that Mary complained.

They arrive, and there are no rooms in the inns. Not even the pregnant card could get her a bed. So they settle down for the night in a stable, when Mary goes into labor. I'm assuming, alone with Joseph. And let me tell you - labor is no joke. And there was no such thing as epidurals back then. So she's going through the pain of childbirth, but you better believe she's not yelling to God "You did this to me!!" Somehow, I picture her calm, praying, peaceful.

And then, all I can picture is the love. Holding your child for the first time is an incredible experience. You're holding this tiny creature that is your heart, in your hands, and the bond is instant and deep. But for her - its all of that, everything we fellow mothers get to experience, but even further, because her son was the son of God. The swelling of emotions, the crashing of everything around you - fear, hope, love, terror, sensitivity, anxiety, curiosity, love love love...

We often hear it said that Jesus is the reason for the season. We know that Christmas is Jesus' birthday (well, or close to it, anyway). But don't forget the big picture. Enjoy the holidays, but pull your family in close this time of year, and think of that heavenly family, two thousand years ago.

Merry Christmas.

“Glory to God in the highest heaven,
and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.”

Muchas Leches Cake with Sugared Almonds

2011-12-06T09:54:00.000-08:00

For Thanksgiving, my sister made an apple pie and my mother in law brought a pumpkin pie, so I wanted to do something a little less "pie" and a little more fun as a third dessert. I picked a Muchas Leches Cake with Sugared Almonds.

I got the recipe from Annie's Eats, and I adore all of her recipes. But, I would have made one big change - I would have cut the cake in thirds, blasted it with holes, and covered it in the soaking liquid overnight. Merely doing holes and brushing on the liquid was not enough, since I was expecting a traditional Tres Leches cake that was...muchas-y leches-y. Ha. It ended up being more like a dense pound cake with an amazing whipped frosting and the most delicious sugared almonds on top.

Annie's Recipe can be found here, and I've also pasted it below:

Muchas Leches Cake with Sugared Almonds

Ingredients:
For the cake:
2 cups (8 oz.) blanched almonds
¾ cup plus 2 tablespoons sugar, divided
¼ tsp. ground cinnamon
7 large eggs, separated
2 tbsp. all-purpose flour
¼ tsp. baking powder

For the soaking liquid:
¼ cup heavy whipping cream
2 tbsp. dulce de leche
¼ cup cream of coconut
¼ cup sweetened condensed milk
¼ cup evaporated milk
1½ tsp. vanilla extract

For the sugared almonds:
2 large egg whites
2 cups slivered almonds
½ cup sugar

For the frosting:
2 cups heavy whipping cream
¾ cup confectioners’ sugar, plus more for dusting
Splash of vanilla extract

Fresh berries, for garnish (optional)

Directions:
To make the cake, preheat the oven to 350˚ F. Line the bottom of a 9 x 13″ baking pan with parchment paper, and butter and flour the edges of the pan. Place the almonds in the bowl of a food processor with ¼ cup of sugar and the cinnamon. Process until finely ground. In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, whip the egg whites on high speed until stiff peaks form. Transfer the beaten egg whites to a different bowl and set aside. Wipe out the mixer bowl. In the now-empty mixer bowl, combine the egg yolks and the remaining ½ cups plus 2 tablespoons of sugar. Beat on medium-high speed until light and fluffy, about 3-4 minutes. Fold in the flour and the baking powder with a spatula. Fold in the ground almond mixture. Mix in a third of the beaten egg whites to lighten the batter. Fold in the remainder of the egg whites until evenly incorporated and no streaks remain.

Pour the batter into the prepared baking pan and smooth with a spatula. Bake approximately 26 minutes, or until lightly browned and a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool in the pan 5-10 minutes, then invert onto a wire rack and let cool completely.

To make the soaking liquid, combine the whipping cream, dulce de leche, cream of coconut, sweetened condensed milk, evaporated milk and vanilla in a bowl or liquid measuring cup. Whisk together until smooth.

To make the sugared almonds, place the egg whites in a clean, dry bowl and whip on high speed until frothy. Stir in the almonds and sugar until evenly incorporated. Spread the mixture in a thin, even layer onto a baking sheet lined with parchment or a silicone baking mat. Bake at 325˚ F until golden brown and crisp, approximately 20 minutes (let cool a minute or two before touching). Allow to cool and then break apart into small chunks.

To make the frosting, place the heavy cream in the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment. Whip on medium-high speed until soft peaks form. Mix in the confectioners’ sugar and continue beating until stiff peaks form. Blend in the vanilla.

Using a serrated knife, cut the cooled cake into thirds width-wise so that you have three pieces of cake about 4 1/3 x 9 inches each. Place one of the segments of cake on a rectangular serving platter and brush with a third of the soaking liquid. (You may want to poke the cake with the tines of a fork to help it absorb the liquid.) Frost with a layer of the whipped cream. Top with another layer of cake, brush with half of the remaining soaking liquid, and frost again with whipped cream. Top with the final layer of cake and brush with the remaining liquid. Frost the top and sides of the cake with the whipped cream. Press the sugared almonds into the top and sides of the cake to cover evenly. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.

Before serving, dust lightly with confectioners’ sugar and top with fresh berries, if desired.

Photo scrapbooking

2011-12-06T09:45:00.000-08:00

This time of year is always crazy! The house is finally (mostly) decorated, Christmas cards are (mostly) done, and holiday shopping is (mostly) purchased and wrapped. I've also been squeezing in some extra time to play with my My Memories Suite digital scrapbooking tool!

I've been working on a photo album for Guinevere's birth. Want a sneak peek?

I'm keeping the layouts clean and white for me, but then am going to go back in and add some of their really neat frames, borders and monograms for books for grandparents :)

I love how easy this is, with the dozens and dozens of layouts, to make the most of our memories. I plan to use this to go back and make books of all of my pictures, to keep a permanent record. And its so easy!

Also, I'm working on a DVD video version as well. I wish there were more hours in the day to keep playing with it!

Want to win a FREE copy? I'm giving one away!! Visit this post to enter...all you have to do is be a follower and leave a comment about your favorite kit! You can also earn extra entries by "Like"ing them on Facebook and Tweeting!

Not into scrapbooking yourself? Enter anyway for a mom, sister or friend - a perfect Christmas gift!

You have til midnight tonight!

Friendship Feast

2011-12-01T09:06:00.000-08:00

Tyler and I have this tradition that we call Friendship Feast. It all started six years ago when we were gearing up for the holiday season. We HATE this time of year. We always had so many family members to visit, and try to please, and spent all of our time smoothing over hurt feelings because we were leaving early or arriving late, and spending even more time in the car driving between houses, and we just never had any fun. So the Saturday before Thanksgiving, we had two couples over for dinner at our tiny apartment. And we had an amazing time.

Friendship Feast kept growing and evolving as we included more and more friends. In 2009, we got up to 20 people, and it was so much fun. Then in 2010 I was pregnant, and the idea of cleaning my house, and cooking for 20+ people was so completely overwhelming, I called it off. So this year, I was incredibly excited to gather our nearest and dearest together again.

We invited over 30 people (!), and managed a pretty stellar turnout of 24. My house doesn't have the best layout for large groups, so I get pretty creative. Like putting all of our living room furniture in the office, and completely rearranging the living room and dining room. I managed to comfortably fit four tables to seat everyone, and I think we could have even fit a few more!

While I traditionally like to prepare all food myself, this year, I opened it up to a potluck. I just don't get much done with a baby these days :) It ended up working out perfectly, and we got to try out some really yummy dishes!!

I made the meats - brown sugar and barbeque chicken breats, pot roast, and two marinated pork tenderloins, and then made mini apple pies. I couldn't resist baking something :)

Like usual, I was far too busy spending time with friends to get any pictures after the guests arrived, but I had a wonderful time, and I hope they all did too. It is so important to take time out of our busy schedules this time of year, and appreciate those that support us! We are blessed to have incredible friends, and I know this is a tradition that will only get bigger and more wonderful :)

How much is that baby? - Pregnancy

2011-11-29T10:00:00.000-08:00

I kept a pretty good log of what I spent throughout the entire pregnancy/hospital/baby process. And there are many things that you don't need, and probably a few more that you do want, that I didn't have. But sometimes its helpful to look at a big picture. For me, that was three categories - Pregnancy, Medical, and Infant. I'll break them into three separate posts.

So for my pregnancy, all expenses fell in one of five categories - books, nursery, clothes, medical (anything outside of standard medical care), and Etc.

Books

I bought four baby related books while pregnant -

What to Expect When You're Expecting $14.95 - boring
The Expectant Father $12.99 - waste
Baby Bargains $9.99 - definitely recommend!
Happiest Baby on the Block $11.99 - waste

I was so lucky to receive a ton more as loans from friends. I loved the Girlfriend's Guide to Pregnancy, but found WTEWYE an awful, boring read. Of the books I bought, I'd only recommend Baby Bargains - I used it as my Bible while registering. If you can't borrow this one, definitely buy it.

Nursery

I did a break down here of where everything is from, but here's the quickie of what it cost.

Furniture - Crib $139, Side Table $25, Side Table $129, Rocker and Ottoman $675, dresser $299, Shelf $69.

Fixtures - Paint $85, Stencil $80 for two, Crown Molding ~$300, Baseboards ~$100, Mirror $79, switchplates $85, closet racks $24, ceiling light and electrician installation $195, curtain rods $50, crystal knobs $6, wooden blinds $100.

Decorations - pillow $29, canopy hardware $49, "G" $10.50, lamp $30, rosary $8, fan $49, frame $14, rug $139, shelf decorations $43.

Would have bought if I hadn't received as gifts: humidifier, crib sheet (two), crib skirt, canopy curtains, window curtains, diaper genie, changing pad, changing pad cover.

Clothes

Two things about clothes. One, you can find great deals if you're really willing to look - consignment shops, Craigslist, online clearances. Or, you can do what I did, and borrow a ton of options from friends. Also - lots of non-maternity clothes work really well while pregnant. Anything I bought that wasn't maternity and I can still wear (empire dresses, etc), I didn't count here.

Old Navy - great for casual, weekend wear. I LOVED their maternity leggings and their jeans, and anything knit was a big win for me. You can't beat the sales they usually have, either. The leggings and the full panel jeans lasted me all 40 weeks. The demi panel jeans only lasted me til maybe week 27, and then they were cutting into my belly.

Black maternity underbelly leggings $12, 2 pairs of skinny jeans (full panel) $30 and $18, 2 pairs of bootcut jeans $27 and $12, Black and Gray striped knit tunic $22.

Target - it was so close, and I'm ALWAYS there, it was a no-brainer for me to pick up random items.

Be Band $18, 2 v-neck tees $9.99 each, V-neck sweater $19.99, cardigan $24.99, dress $29.99, Leggings $19.99.

Nordstrom - Two bras. $79 and $46.

Motherhood Maternity - Black pencil skirt $29, jean shorts $32, ruffled tank $24, pink dress $39, blue dress $34.

Asos - this was where I went for anything cute or even moderately trendy. Shipping is a hassle, since it comes from the UK, and quality was hit or miss, a la H&M, but it was overall a success.

Navy and white striped knit dress $63, White strappy sundress $13, strapless maxi dress $27, Black one-shoulder cocktail dress $89, floral strapless dress $60.

Medical

When I talk about the medical bills, I'm going to break it down in two parts. My doctors had one dollar amount that was to include all prenatal care, one post-natal visit, and the birth. I'll mention that, and the birth, in a separate blog post.

So in this particular blog post, I'll only mention any medical bills or expenses outside of the standard prenatal care. Worth noting: I started out with Blue Cross Blue Shield Anthem PPO Health Insurance. Around 6 months into my pregnancy, I switched to Cigna Health Insurance, with a High Deductible. So I'll give you the "what it would have cost" amounts where I know them, and then what I paid out of pocket.

Over the Counter Meds:

$14.49/month for One A Day Women's Prenatal with DHA. For an entire pregnancy, comes to ~$144.90. (And you're supposed to keep taking them after you deliver).
Metamucil: $12.99
Fiber Pills: $9.99
Tums: $3-$5 a bottle, I went through 10 bottles. Yikes. ~$40 total.
Tylenol: $11.99

Pregnancy Confirmation: Since I got pregnancy with the help of fertility medication, I had a few extra assurances early on. Most doctors won't see a pregnant woman until she is 8 weeks pregnant, but with my history, I was seen that day to run Beta Labwork. Once the pregnancy was confirmed, I was put on Prometrium and DHA to help prevent a miscarriage.

Round 1 Beta Labwork: $3.11
Round 2 Beta Labwork: $3.11
Prometrium Prescription: $50. (According to drugstore.com, without insurance this would have cost me $221.70)
DHA Supplements: $17. Over the counter.

Emergency Care: Around 6 or 7 weeks, I had some bleeding, and I started having some cramps, so I was checked pretty regularly. Most normal pregnancies will only have one or two ultrasounds, and for my practice, the 20 week scan was included in the "one price", but the NT Scan at 12 weeks was not. All of these costs are after insurance, since I can't find the paper work right now. I'll edit this post once I find out what they would have cost without insurance.

Early ultrasound invoice: $85.74
Co-pay at 12 week NT Scan: $30 co-pay.
Quest Labs Invoice: $2.50 (checking Beta levels)
Quest Labs Invoice: $11.77 (follow up Beta)
Hospital Invoice: $125.46 (ultrasound)
Hospital Invoice: $430.80 (ultrasound)
Quest Labs Invoice: $9.15 (bloodwork)
Quest Labs Invoice: $54.36 (full bloodwork panel at 12 weeks)
Radiology Invoice: $3.60 (ultrasound)

Elective Ultrasound: Lastly, at 16 weeks, Tyler and I chose to have an early elective ultrasound to find out Guinevere's sex. We went to a third party vendor, and paid $78.75.

Etc.

Announcements: To tell Tyler, I made t-shirts for the dogs, and bought Redskins onesies. $26. To tell Tyler's parents, we bought a picture frame and put an ultrasound picture in it. $14.

Pregnancy aids: A snoogle - this weird curly pillow that saved my back, and a cover. $75.49.

Extra size in a bridesmaid dress for ordering the maternity version: $30.

New car: I definitely wouldn't have gotten this if I weren't pregnant - I would have run mine into the ground, then bought a small commuter car. Brand new Hyundai Tucson - $15,000.

Maternity Pictures: I got a dear friend to do them, and she gave me an incredible bargain, at $100. Expect to pay up to $450 with most photographers, for session fee and prints or CD.

*Note: In this section, I'd recommend researching classes you may want to take - first aid, CPR, breast feeding, preparing for childbirth, etc. Some of them get pretty expensive. I just watched YouTube videos and relied on Google.

Total

Books Total: $49.92
Nursery Total: $2811.50
Clothes Total: $788.94
Medical Total: $1,125.22
Etc Total: $15,245.49

Pregnancy Cost: $24, 963.15

um, fuck.

To do it on the cheap, you could have deleted the whole nursery section and just bought a pack 'n play for $100, only borrowed books from the library, borrowed clothes or searched Goodwill for under $100, and skipped the announcements and fancy pillow, to really only cost your medical total. But I figured I'd keep it real here.

And now, I'll get ready for my husband to completely flip out when he reads this in his Google Reader. It seemed like such a bargain when we did it in pieces...