Black Tie, White Dress And Now A Bassinet!

Christmas 2011

2012-01-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

It is safe to say that this Christmas was a little different than normal... we had a new baby, I was recovering from a C-section, BJ was in transition to a new job and family came to us. Although it was a quieter holiday, we were truly blessed with a lot of family time and that was the best gift ever. We did manage to take Eleanor on a small Christmas outing to Bass Pro Shops... they had a Santa and a carousel that we knew she would love. Honestly, besides going to see Santa at the Galleria with Lucy this was the only Christmas activity we did. WAH-WAH.

Uncle Benny and Auntie Kristen traveled to Washington for Christmas, so they came over a few days before to give Eleanor and Tripp their gifts.... opening this gift was just a small preview of the FUN we knew Eleanor would have this year!

I mean, she got the Popper... didn't we all have one of these when we were younger?!

On Christmas Eve, Pamie came to celebrate with us and showered Eleanor and Tripp with WAY too many goodies... Eleanor was in heaven. She was obsessed with her new boots, horse, tent, toys... I mean really, Pamie always overdoes it!

Christmas Morning... snuggle bug looks so sweet, but let's be honest... Christmas was ROUGH on the Rector clan. WE ALL got sick... Eleanor gave a cold to Daddy, who gave it to Tripp, who gave it to me.. needless to say, we went through about 4 boxes of Kleenex in just a few days. Not the best way to spend Tripp's first Christmas (and his one month birthday!) but we managed.

When Eleanor woke up, she came into our living room and was on complete sensory overload. The grandparents WAY OVERDID spoiling our babies this year... you can tell from this picture, but Eleanor got a bike, a horse and a wagon.... and that doesn't even dip into the amount of presents she opened (or Momma actually opened because she was too busy riding her horse, Lucky!).

"This is really for me, PawPaw??!!"

Outfit change and toy change.... every year we open pajamas on Christmas Eve, but Eleanor was asleep when we did so we had her open and change into them on Christmas day...

Eleanor wrapped in the new blanket her Nanna made for her...

.... AND, back to Lucky!

Our little Cowgirl.

Then, Eleanor discovered that she and Tripp got a wagon... and she was ready for a ride immediately.

Eleanor also got her first baby doll... on Christmas day, she named the baby "Katie".... but shortly after she renamed the baby "Tripp"... go figure.

Family picture... this is the best one!

And this is what the majority of them look like... imagine 6 other family members behind the camera singing "Happy Birthday" or the "1-2-3...." song.

The Rector Family

The Gross Family

Oops... we forgot Aunt Katie, but my kids were OVER pictures by this point.

We literally stayed in our pajamas ALL day... after gifts, we had a yummy brunch with some kind of breakfast casserole, quiche and the Pioneer Woman's Cinnamon Rolls. YUM. We had a late lunch / early dinner with Lasagna... seriously, I loved everything I put in my mouth on Christmas day.

Tripper boy and Momma snuggling... probably watching the Cowboys getting beat, boo.

Grandpa and his twin, Tripp.

Eleanor was just a mess all day... I am pretty sure that next to her birthday, this Christmas was one of her favorite days of her life so far. It really wasn't just about the gifts, either... girlfriend LOVES her family and had a ball with her grandparents.

Is it bad that we are already looking forward to next Christmas??? I feel like I missed it.. the "Red" cups at Starbucks, Christmas lights, the crazy shopping malls.... I can't wait for it next year... and to see how much fun Eleanor and Tripp with have again!!

Tripp :: Two Months Old

2012-01-25T16:53:00.003-06:00

Buddy... you are TWO months old. Easily, these have been two of the greatest months of our lives. Having you here has been the perfect addition to our family - your sweet smile and cuddly little self absolutely makes my day, everyday. I seriously look forward to every single day with you - and as I am soaking up these fleeting days that just are going by too fast, I also can't wait to see the little boy you grow to be... I just dream about the fun we will have... can't wait to hear your little voice say Momma, Daddy and Eleanor... can't wait to see you crawl, walk and run around with your big sister.... can't wait. I sure do hope you stay as cuddly are you are now, though, because there is nothing better than snuggling with you throughout my day.

You are pretty consistent with your schedule.... it isn't set in stone, but generally I feed you around 10pm and you sleep until about 6:30am, then go back to sleep until about 8:30am. Once you are up for the day, you eat at 8:30am, 11:30am, 2pm, 4:30pm, 7:00pm, 10:00pm... we definitely still cluster feed during the day, so it is not abnormal that another feeding may squeeze in there at the end of the day. Knowing that you give us 8.5 hours at night makes it completely worth it!

You are a snuggle bug. You could be, and wish to be, held all day long. Because of this, it takes a little bit longer for you to settle into your naps than it did Eleanor.... typically I have to rock or hold you to get you to sleep before laying you down. Working on that.

You have started to play in your little gym thing... it is hard to do when Eleanor is awake because she is all up in your business, but you love to look at the lights and sometimes try to grab the toys.

You found your voice - it happened about a week ago, but you let out your first little COO and Momma's heart melted to the floor. I firmly believe there is no sweeter sound than a little coo from you... you don't coo as much as Eleanor did at this point, but I am sure those days are coming!

You have the SWEETEST dimple on your right cheek that when we get you smiling or laughing appears. We love it. I really could stare at your smile all day.

I still think that we have heard you cry a total of about 4 times. You are the most content, even-keeled baby EVER. I even try to wait a long time after you begin to get restless to see if we will actually hear a crying fit... nope. Your "crying fit" is more like a little whimper. And your bottom pouty lip is the cutest thing you'll ever see.

You are NOT the biggest fan of your car seat - this is kind of a bummer. Eleanor never minded it and would stay put however long... you, however, know when we are not in a car and always squirm or squeal for us to get you out of your seat (to be held, of course!). So, I have pretty much held you at restaurants, church and play dates all month.

You are wearing size 1 diapers and 0-3 month clothes... newborn clothes no longer fit. We go to the doctor next week and I can't wait to find out what you weigh, I have a feeling you have gained quite a bit since we were there last!

You have a full head of whitish-blond hair, a huge widow's peak, and the deepest blue eyes just like Daddy and Eleanor.

You had your first little date on New Years Eve with Chapel Kate.... you two are just so precious.

You still love yourself some tummy time... we don't do it every day, but probably because you really don't mind it and so it isn't like we have to practice. You will normally hang out on your tummy for about 10-15 minutes without ever caring.

You are still sleeping in Momma and Daddy's room, and although you still snore, we have gotten used to it and really don't hear your noises anymore! We started working on your nursery this past week, so hopefully here in the next few weeks you will be in your own room. At this point, I dread that day... I love having you near.

Your daddy started a new job this month and now works for SAP... we are so excited about this opportunity and his future there.... but it also is definitely a learning curve for all of us. For daddy, because it is a new field he is unfamiliar with. For us, well we are used to having him around random days or times throughout the week... not anymore! He now is gone from 8-5 Monday through Friday.... this Momma looks forward to dinner and weekends, for sure. Praise the Lord for his amazing provision!

Your nicknames are Tripper Boy, Buddy, Bug, Booger Bean and Brother... when you make any noise whatsoever, Eleanor always comes to "soothe" you and exclaims a slow "TRIPPER". So sweet.

Your grandpa had a heart attack this past week (HATE that this is in your monthly post, but I want to document everything)... praise the Lord for amazing doctors and facilities who were there to act immediately. We are praising the Lord for being a healer and trusting that He still has great things to accomplish through grandpa in this life.... you are going to have so much fun getting to know him, and all your grandparents for that matter. You are a blessed little booger. (You look just like Grandpa in this picture)

What can I say, Tripper Boy? You are truly the best.... Eleanor even agrees. She absolutely LOVES you and is the best big sister... everyone that meets you agrees that you are just the sweetest, lovable little cutie. Momma and Daddy fall more in love with you every single day. We pray that you know, confidently, that we LOVE every ounce of who you are - there is nothing you could ever do that will change the love that we have for you. You are our son... enough said. Buddy, we are so glad you are in our family, so glad you are our precious second born, our first son, our cuddly little monkey and adorable munchkin. Here's to your 2nd month, love.

Beauty Shop

2012-01-12T11:47:00.000-06:00

What you are about to witness happens every night after Eleanor's bath. No lie. Not by Momma, nope.... but by Daddy. Eleanor and Daddy have special bonding time including a hair dryer, paddle brush and BJ tapping into his inner-beauty technician. HI-LAR-I-OUS.

As you can see, Eleanor enjoys it just about as much as you would imagine she would.

But nevertheless, every time this little girl's hair is wet... Daddy insists.

Last night, I overheard him exclaiming.... "Look at that volume!" (again, no lie.)

I do have to admit, he achieved quite the height with her hair.

Watch out Pantene Pro-V... your newest hair model (and stylist) very well may be in my bathroom.

*Funny, and ridiculous, as it is... It melts my heart.

Christmas Card 2011

2012-01-10T08:00:00.000-06:00

Let's be honest.... we just could NOT get it together to send out a Christmas card this year. We were just a little busy. Had we actually sent a card, I imagine we would have included one of the following pictures.... so if you are reading this, consider this our Christmas card... we pray you had a BLESSED holiday season! We got the best. gift. ever.

From our house to yours....

Why Tripp?

2012-01-09T08:00:00.000-06:00

When BJ and I first got married we did as I am sure a lot of newlyweds do.... discussed our future kids names. Knowing that we hope to have a large family, there have been tons of names that have buzzed around, many on the short list and tons that have been given the boot. The one name that was not only the first discussed, but also obvious was William Joseph Rector III. We both new that somehow and someway, we would keep the legacy of the name William going.... in fact, we had come to the resolution that had we never had a boy, our last daughter would be named Liam. So needless to say, when BJ exclaimed that we had a BOY we immediately knew his name would be William Joseph Rector III.

Names hold a lot of weight, at least historically, and we believe that we can be praying the attributes of our children's names over them every day and believing that they will truly live up to the meaning that their name holds. Not only this, but obviously some pretty amazing men have the same name as our little boy.... his daddy and his Paw-Paw.... awesome namesakes that Tripp can look up to, learn from and prayerfully become like them! So let's break it down:

The English meaning of the name William is "strong willed warrior". In the simplest of forms, we pray that Tripp would be a fighter.... growing strong, healthy and determined; that he would stand firm for things that he believes in; stand up against those who would want to hurt or damage others... basically, that he would be courageous in battles WORTH fighting. In the grand scheme of things, that he would be a warrior, a LEADER among men... whose life is one worthy to be followed. That he would be humble, a servant, brave and steadfast - confident in whose he is all of the days of his life.

The Hebrew meaning of the name Joseph is "God will increase"... oh sweet boy, how could we pray anything greater over you? We pray and believe that through your life the fame of our Lord would spread in the way that you honor Him, serve Him, worship Him and display His love to others. We pray that the way you live your life here on this earth would be a testimony of the mercy, overwhelming grace and steadfast love that God has for His children... and how it truly transforms one from death to life all for His glory. May you live your days in the shadow of the cross, not wanting accolade for yourself but in pursuit of bringing worship to the Lord.

So his name is William Joseph, but we will call him Tripp.... why? Mainly because he is the THIRD William Joseph in our family line (for those that don't follow... triple / Tripp). Although this is a cute little nickname, it also is a way to honor Paw-Paw and Daddy for the amazing men that they are. The example that these two men will set for Tripp: the love, the service, the grace, the compassion, the provision, the discipline.... calling our son Tripp is a way to exclaim that Momma hopes and believes he will grow up to follow in their footsteps. What a blessing that would be for all that would come to know Tripp.... because Daddy and Paw-Paw set the bar really high.

William Joseph Rector II holding his SON for the first time!

William Joseph Rector holding his GRANDSON for the first time!

Ultimately, Tripper boy, you belong to the Lord. Momma and Daddy are HUMBLED that God graciously blessed our family with you as our son... we LOVE you so much and can't wait to see the little man you grow to be. Know that there is not a day that goes by that you will not be prayed for... we promise to love you, discipline you, play with you, pray for you and listen to you. Oh the joy you bring... be still my heart!

Eleanor at 17 months

2012-01-07T17:36:00.001-06:00

Eleanor, you are a little fireball in EVERY sense of the word... you absolutely keep us on our toes and brighten each day with your spunk. It is hard to believe what a little lady you are becoming..... sure you still wear size 6-12 month clothes, still love to drink your milk out of a bottle, still take 2 awesome naps a day... but it is unbelievable how much you are growing, changing and LEARNING - you are a sponge. A few things we want to remember:

*You sleep from 8:30pm - 8:15am, nap from 10:30 - 12:15 and nap again from about 3:30 - 5:30... in the last couple of days you have started singing and playing throughout the entire first nap, although you don't cry for us to come get you, we fear that the days of nap #1 are numbered.

*Every morning when you wake up you go through a roll-call of sorts to whomever is getting you out of bed. For example, if I am getting you out of bed a typical roll-call would go: "Daddy, Tripp, Dot-Dot, Paw-Paw, Katie??" Pretty much every morning and after every nap... I am sure this just melts the heart of Dot-Dot, Paw-Paw and Aunt Katie... but it leaves the rest of the gang out, so we need to work on that :).

*You still only have your two bottom teeth, but as of this week you are officially cutting SIX teeth... yikes. The top four and two more on the bottom are about to poke through. Needless to say, you have loved yourself some paci and some tylenol lately.

*You weigh 18lbs even. Little thing.

*Without a doubt, you are a Daddy's girl.

*You have started to say "Cheese" and close your eyes when we try to take your picture... makes it quite difficult to get a few good ones every now and again :).

*You LOVE Tripp and just think you are the world's biggest helper... you aren't. All day every day you are constantly looking for his blankets, pacis, diapers, etc (even if he is using them) to bring them to me. Thank you, sweet girl.... but stop. You constantly are kissing on him and ask to hold him ALL the time.... you are so concerned when he cries, try to help momma change his diaper and help burp him after every feeding. Hilarious.

*Holy junk you are smart.... for all I know you are right on pace, but you blow us away every day with the vocabulary you have, the reasoning in your little brain and how you put the two together. I have listed most of the words you know before, but here are some new ones that just are nuts: Tipp, Ganpa (Grandpa), Mini (Mindy), Hosh (Josh), Maeme (Maebe), meelk (milk), bankie (blankie), hosee (horsey), bike, keys, noogie (nugget), cookie, o-fish (goldfish), batub (bathub), car, poputer (computer), yucky, nakey (naked), diapa (diaper), dirty, tash (trash), watch, gasses (glasses), barn, cib (crib), shirt, shoes, bow, socks, boots, boogies (boogers, lovely!), tynol (tylenol, yikes!), buppace (butt paste, you have had lots of diaper rash!), backet (basket), potty, fooball (football), memo (remote), carseat, wackup (wake up), back up, bless you (especially when Tripp sneezes), hot coffee (seriously?!), bye-bye, nope, no way, oopie dadie (oopsie daisy),and I am sure there are tons more... literally we freak out all the time at the words you know. You are also starting to put thoughts together, for example: Momma's wawa, Daddy's poputer, Dot-Dot's keys, Lucy's paci.

*You know where all your body parts are and you know them by name.

*You know the sounds to make for a puppy, cow, duck, monkey, cat, pig and horse.

*You are very mischievous. If we tell you NO to something, you immediately decide that this will be your new favorite game. So with a sneaky grin and slow motion, you stare us down while you continue to do the very thing that we have asked you not to... can we say, make us laugh and freak us out all at the same time. We are working on this with you.... in fact, you have REALLY learned what time-out is lately and you are NOT a fan.

*You eat your weight in goldfish and often ask for them for breakfast.

*You got a baby doll for Christmas and it has been so funny to watch you copy what momma and Tripp do with your baby.... your baby (named Katie) has enjoyed many times in the bassinet, the swing and on the boppy... you like to burp her too.

*You sing all day long... to yourself or to us, doesn't matter... your favorite is "La, La, La" from Kindermusik, but you also sing Happy Birthday (tune only) and sometimes parts of "Boom Pa Pa" from Kindermusik. You also love to dance and have just started swaying your hips when you hear music.

*You can sing A-D (sometimes G) of the ABC's (you hum the whole song) and count to 3.

*You LOVE boys.... specifically older ones that are friends of mommy and daddy's... when they come over or we see them in public, you tend to get really shy and smile while staring at them regardless of what you do. After you warm up a bit, you typically lean against wherever they are sitting and smile until they pick you up. You little FLIRT.

*We are NOT going to start potty training yet, but you have started to let us know when you have gone potty in your diaper... you don't like to be wet or dirty, so you tell us pretty much as soon as you go. (and yes, those are momma's panties on your head. awesome.)

*You love to repeat... like we hear "paci, paci, paci, paci....." or "uh oh, uh oh, uh oh..." or "milk, milk, milk...." until we give you what you are asking for or you get our attention. You are still polite and use your sign language, but you make sure to get our attention first.

There are so many more things to love and appreciate about you, sweet girl. For now we just can't forget these... you are awesome, we love you and we have come to thoroughly enjoy the little lady that God has created you to be. You keep us on our toes, that is for sure. We love you punkin bottom!

Tripp :: One Month Old

2011-12-25T21:45:00.003-06:00

Yay little buddy - today (Christmas day!) is your ONE month birthday! This month has been just a whirlwind... I can honestly say that I don't know where the time has gone. It seems like only a moment ago we were in the hospital with you, snuggling up and getting to know you... and yet at the same time, I feel like having you home is so familiar as if you have been here for much longer. You are an ABSOLUTE delight... the perfect addition to our little family and we love everything about you! I just cannot get enough of you - the newborn stage is just so fleeting and honestly, one of my favorites. You are so precious, so small, so sleepy... I guess having Eleanor and seeing the busy-body that she is makes me truly sentimental for the short time we have you as our "baby".... a few things I want to remember about your first month of life:

*We came home from the hospital when you were four days old... Dot-Dot had moved in to help us seeing as I am not supposed to lift anything heavier than you for six weeks; darn! What a help she has been... she spends Monday-Friday with us and keeps our house clean, organized, with food on the table and still has time to entertain Eleanor. What a blessing!

*Eleanor LOVES you... it took her about 3-4 days, but now she cannot get enough of you. She calls you "Tipp" and never wants to leave the room without kissing you. She is such a "helper" and loves to bring me your paci, blankets, burp rags, diapers.... she also always asks to hold you. So we let her sit down and pretend to hold you sometimes to make her day. You love her too... or you will, you are too sleepy now to know :).

*You purse your lips like a duck just like Daddy.. and Eleanor.

*When we left the hospital, you weighed 7lbs 3oz... at your week checkup you weighed 7lbs 11oz and at your two week checkup you weighted 8lbs 7oz... yay! You are a good little eater!

*You are an AMAZING sleeper.... it started almost immediately after birth, but the first night we had you home you gave us about 4.5 hours of straight sleep, the next night about 5 and because you are doing so great at gaining weight Dr. Neely said to let you sleep.... so a typical night you feed about 10pm then again at 6am... that is 8 hours, little guy... THANK YOU!

*For the first few weeks of your life, you slept on my chest... I did this with Eleanor too. I absolutely love nothing more than snuggling with you, sweet boy. Most nights, I would have you sleep with me after your mid-night feed... but seeing as you are such a great sleeper, you really don't start sleeping on my chest until about 6:30amish.

*During the day you eat about every 2-2.5 hours... love that you understand the concept of cluster feeding!

*Unfortunately, you have already had your first cold. YUCK. There has been nothing worse than seeing your sweet little self coughing and stopped-up.... it has made Momma and Daddy feel quite helpless. Eleanor got daddy sick, daddy got you sick, you got me sick and now hopefully I am making you better by feeding you... you haven't had a fever, but my word you have had quite the rough go.... we even had to do the baby heimlich maneuver on you a few times. Um... not fun, quite scary and sweet boy - I am so sorry!

*You have a full head of white blond hair - and kind of a mullet, if we are being honest.

*We have only ventured out to church once since you were born... you were 2 weeks old and you slept like a snug bug the entire time.... but it has been rainy or freezing (or we were sick) the other weeks, so it just was not worth getting you out!

*You sleep in Momma and Daddy's room in your bassinet... but little boy, you SNORE. It took us about 2 weeks to get used to it... you were sleeping, we were not. We threatened to move you to the bathroom or the closet, but never did :).

*It has been quite the learning curve adjusting to a baby boy's diaper... mainly, the fact that at least once a day you pee all over us and all over yourself and your clothes, the wall, the bedding... you get the picture :).

*You love to nap in the swing... and Eleanor loves to rock your swing, yikes!

*We have tried tummy time a couple of times and you are a fan - you will hang out on your tummy for about 5 minutes or so before you start "asking" to get up!

*You have great head control - whenever we are holding you up on our shoulder, you love to pick your head up and look around... sometimes you will look us directly in the face... hilarious!

*We took newborn pictures with you when you were about 9 days old... you peed on the photographer 3 times and pooped on Momma once. Lovely.

*You love bath time - you always give a shocked gasp when the water first hits you, but then you normally just sit and stare the rest of the time. When you are cold, your little bottom lip quivers and it is too cute.

*We have maybe heard you cry a total of 4 times. Literally. When you cry, you sound like a duck quacking... and you purse your little lips to make a frowny face and it will melt the hardest of hearts.

*We haven't heard a laugh yet, but you have cracked a smile or two a few times.... we aren't 100% sure if it was gas or a true smile, but the little dimple on your cheek is just about the sweetest thing you'll ever see.

*Weyland and Emily had baby Chapel and John and Tina had baby Caleb this past month.... Daddy and I can't wait to see you grow up with these kiddos... what a blessing!

I WILL sound like a broken record, but baby boy, you have literally added more joy and meaning to our days in just this short amount of time. Sometimes it is still hard for me to process that I have a son, but by golly it has been the greatest experience... having you here has only enhanced my love for daddy, Eleanor and the Lord... you have made my heart grow by leaps and bounds. Of course I want time to slow down because I know before I blink you will be crawling, running, talking... but I also can't wait to see the little man you will grow to be and I just could burst dreaming about the fun we will have. Little boy, we LOVE you. You bring us so much joy and having you in our family has only made us better - Tripper buddy, you are the best!

Dad's Xmas Gift

2011-12-24T21:30:00.003-06:00

Word!

5 calls to the Peditrician
4 hours sleep (in a 24 hr. period)
3 gasping, chokings
2 sick babies
And a restless heart for the night...

I start you all off with this familiar song of the season to help contextualize our recent lives. My and Karen's anxiety and stress has risen greatly over the last few days due to Eleanor's double ear infection and sinus 'stuff' Tripp has come to have. We have argued, prayed, asked for help, resisted help, googled, argued, prayed... it's kinda like shampoo. Rinse and repeat.

One huge frustration of mine these last several days has been Eleanor's appetite, or lack there of. She lost 1.5 lbs since our last visit to the hospital, a couple weeks before Tripp was born. People, she only weighed 19 lbs to start, and she's 16 months old. In reality she runs around all day like a crazy woman, talks a lot and then crashes for a nap, wakes up, runs around the rest of the day... shampoo. But as she began to get sick she lost her appetite and started giving us the stiff arm to food, literally. Being her dad I heard the news of weight loss and thought, I'll fix this. I will take the responsibility completely of getting her to eat. How can a baby out-last, out-wit and out-maneuver her dad? I have a college degree. I can not get my daughter to drink 8 ozs. of chocolate milk. CHOCOLATE. Frustration is the tip of the iceberg. I actually got angry at my loss of control. My sin became real and apparent. I'm having a problem with the gospel.

I am dissatisfied with what is happening in my life right now. God is not receiving from me worship, but distant indifference. I am not wrong to want health for my kids. It is a fantastic prayer to ask for healing and remedy. But, if I ask to move out of any situation with out asking what am I supposed to learn about God I am missing the point of life. My kids are not sick because God is distant, vengeful or indifferent. They are sick to get me to experience a more full life with X. This time in our lives ordained by God is to have me at a computer contemplating how neglectful I've truly been of the lord the last weeks. And to then move me to change. On the extreme pendulum instant health or momentary death may be only a breath away. But in the practice of regular Xian living I am missing the mark. What has escaped my thoughts, prayers and beliefs until this very night are the words of Jesus when tempted by satan.

"Man shall not live by bread alone, but every word the proceeds from the mouth of God".

Eleanor will likely eat well again. Tripp will breathe easy and be free of snot. But I will never have this time back to be obedient to God. If God is who He says he is, believe Him. So be it.

Santa Babies...

2011-12-22T17:08:00.000-06:00

This past week we loaded up the kiddos and headed to the Galleria with Mindy to take our annual pictures with Santa.... last year, Eleanor and Lucy were so young (Lucy was a content bean the whole time and Eleanor smiled like it was her job) so I was REALLY excited to see how Eleanor would respond this time. Is it bad that I was hoping for a picture of a mini-meltdown? I mean, those pictures are priceless. Well, Lucy did not disappoint - girlfriend is all kinds of scared of Mr. Bowl Full of Jelly - hilarious! Eleanor and Tripp, well, they aren't too impressed.... Santa neither excited nor scared Eleanor... she pretty much sat stoic on his lap without much expression while Tripp snored away. I mean, Santa looks more excited than either of my kids! Ridiculous!

The girl taking the "official" picture had a little noise maker to get Eleanor's attention... instead of smiling, though, Eleanor simply wished the woman would give it to her.

"How much longer, Momma? I am bored." E

"This pillow is so comfortable." T

.... enter Lucy! hahahaha!

Eleanor doesn't even care the her bff is in hysterics.

Prior to pictures, the girls were all over the Christmas decor... mainly, Lucy kept trying to take the ornaments off of the trees and Eleanor kept telling her "NO!"... now if only Eleanor would heed her own instruction when at home with our own tree :).

Our pic with Santa from last year.... I can't wait to see how these evolve over the years!

Here's to hoping that Santa freaks out Mr. Tripp next Christmas!

Tripp's First Bath

2011-12-03T08:00:00.000-06:00

On day 5 of little Tripp's life, we decided it was time that Momma gave him his first bath at home... it just feels so cruel to take this warm, snuggle monkey...

And slowly prepare him for a warm, albeit stunning experience... I know they bath them in the hospital, but this first bath always makes me so nervous for our punkins! Look at that blond hair!

And here comes the water....!

Surprisingly, Tripp handled his bath much better than his big sister Eleanor did.... he definitely cried, but no screams and really more like little wimpers...

Look at that pouty lip, to. die. for.!

Since big sister Eleanor was napping during his bath, we decided to give him a paci to keep him from really wailing.... so our content little bug just let us finish while he sat back and relaxed!

All bundled in his warm towel and ready for his lotion massage!

And our clean little duckie... just too much! First bath = success!

Tripp's Hospital Stay and Coming Home

2011-12-02T16:00:00.000-06:00

Following Tripp's birth, we realized what a great blessing it was that he was born on a holiday weekend.... friends and family were able to come and visit, but it was a little more spread out than when we had Eleanor and everyone had to get their visit in on Sunday before the work week started. Seeing how tired we were, it was really nice to have a slow and steady pace of visitors throughout the weekend and not a mad rush! (I hate that I didn't get pictures of everyone.... thank you to the many more that came, we love you!!)....

Our swollen little bug the next morning....

Pamie came to visit her first grandson.....

Dot Dot and Grandpa Mike with their two Grandbabies....

Like Eleanor's pink poodle rocker, our amazing friend Junior brought this precious rocking horse and flower arrangement up to the hospital the night Tripp was born.... so darling!!

The Rives family.....

We LOVE our hospital - seriously, I was looking forward to my stay just as much as giving birth... I just had the fondest memories of my time their with Eleanor and the second time around did NOT disappoint! We just had the BEST nurses for both Tripp and myself - and because it was a holiday weekend, again, there was just a different spirit around the halls... all the staff was truly so friendly and accommodating. There is just something about waking up in the hospital (post-partum) to your breakfast, your OBGYN, your pediatrician and nurses all making their rounds to check on you. Call me crazy, but I love it.

My best friend from high school, Julia, and her daughter Grace came to hold and love on Tripp!

My college besties (minus Gillean) were all in town for the weekend... such a special visit and time to catch up with these girls!!

Our small group (minus the Gamblins and Litzners) made the visit on Sunday evening... BJ loved this visit best because he had the opportunity to fulfill an apparent dream of his - smoking cigars with buddies outside in celebration!

Every night I would send Tripp to the nursery for the first stretch of sleep... so I sent him about 9:30pm until the nurses would bring him back to eat.... well, little pooper is a SLEEPER just like his sister! Every night we were there they would bring him back around midnight and he would refuse to wake up or eat... but would eat around 2am, instead. Once they brought him in though, Momma was hooked and he slept with me all snuggled on my chest... my very favorite thing in the entire world. Crazy fact I don't want to forget, Tripp slept from 2am - 9am his first night without ever waking up (although we tried to wake and feed him about every 2 hours)... the next night it was 2am - 7am... little boy loves his sleep, good boy!

Cari kept up the tradition and brought Tripp his very first fast food toy.... a Batman figurine. He loves it!

Aunt Katie and her roommate, Ashley came to love our little man too....

I was originally intending to stay at the hospital until Tuesday, but we have this little girl Eleanor who we missed like CRAZY - and because Tripp is such an amazing little baby and because I actually was doing better than expected, they let us go home on Monday afternoon! Never have I been so excited to pack up and head home to our new reality!

Tripp looked absolutely precious in his going home outfit from Mindy, Josh, Lucy Kate and Raedean.... I just love "kissy kissy" and Eleanor has the same outfit in pink, so of course the sentimental me just loves it to pieces!

We got home around 2pm, just enough time for Eleanor to play with "bubba" until she went to nap. Again, she was still really excited about him at this point because she still hadn't figured out he was here to stay.... so we settled in, unpacked the car, squeezed our baby girl and welcomed Tripp HOME.

We LOVE having you here, buddy. Having you in our home only adds more joy and meaning to our days!

Meeting Tripp....

2011-12-01T21:33:00.001-06:00

Once we were out of my C-Section and back in recovery, BJ went to get Eleanor to come meet her little brother before we told our families what we had :).... apparently, he still had tears in his eyes and so while he was away they all placed bets that BR #2 just had to be a boy... they know him well :).

After Eleanor got a few minutes with Tripp, BJ went back out to let everyone know the news.... here is how he did it!

After the hoots and hollers, everyone started making their way back to meet their new grandson and nephew.. the only thing that stinks about recovery is that guests are only allowed back four at a time, so we couldn't all celebrate together, but rather, in waves....

Dot-Dot.... funny enough, she was wearing pink the day Eleanor was born and has this very same picture with her...

Nanna....

Aunt Katie....

Aunt Kristen.... only 11 more weeks until she is in this same position with her own little bug!

Grandpa and Paw-Paw (Paw-Paw is William Joseph Rector!).....

Uncle Benny....

Aunt Mindy....

And Silly Big Sister, Jenna...

After about an hour of recovery, I was released to go upstairs and Tripp was sent off to get measurements, etc.... so off we went to watch from the window to the nursery!

Grandpa had Eleanor saying "Bubba" like a champ... and she was enthralled with all the activity that was going on in the nursery and waved and called for Bubba the whole time. Melt. my. heart.

If you ask me, it was the perfect birthday for our precious little one... we love our SON, baby boy Tripp!!

39 Weeks... and one day

2011-11-30T12:07:00.001-06:00

The day after Thanksgiving, November 25, will go down in history as one of my very favorite days on this earth. After fighting a night of sleep, tossing and turning every few minutes, BJ and I sprang out of bed about 6am. We both took a great shower. I dried and actually got to do my hair, put on some makeup and then before we knew it we were out the door at 7:15am headed to the hospital!

Of course we would, but we got in a little tiff about the hat that BJ was wearing... he has a John Deere hat that I absolutely despise and I just really didn't want it in pictures, so I asked him to change it. He did, but of course we had a little argument instead of a seamless morning.... but everyone has those moments, right?!

Anyways, we pull into the hospital (front row parking - woot!) and head straight to Labor & Delivery where we basically felt like we were signing our life away, but nevertheless, got everything checked out and set up to be admitted for surgery. The biggest difference about checking into the hospital this time, as opposed to last time, is that I was in NO pain and so of course had so much anxiety about the coming treatment, because at this point it wasn't necessarily the lesser of two evils to have the pain of an epidural, etc.... but the nursing and anesthesiology staff was absolutely amazing - didn't think I was nuts but tried to make my convulsing body (quite literally) as comfortable as possible. Everyone was just thrilled that we didn't know the gender of our baby... in fact, my pre-op nurse finished her shift before my surgery, but decided to stay because she couldn't stand not knowing what we had!

So we are about an hour in, IV and antibiotics set up and about ready for the epidural when we learn that another patient had to have an emergency delivery so I would be pushed back a little bit... no big deal, other than the fact that the longer I wait for needles, the more nervous I get. I shared that, so they did their best to at least keep my epidural schedule close to its original time so I didn't go nuts.... in comes the anesthesiologist and in went the epidural. Again, just NOT as bad as you work yourself up for but of course not something you hope to get every day. My blood pressure, however, did drop to 60/30 and the doctors and nurses started freaking out.... like, "put oxygen on her, give her some kind of something in her IV drip asap, put her head above her feet" kind of freak out.... which made me freak out. About 20 minutes later, all was just fine and we were rolling back to meet our newest little bundle.

In the waiting room, we had our families, Mindy and Jenna waiting to hear the news... Eleanor showed up in a birthday dress to celebrate BR #2's birthday and was apparently quite the hit in the waiting room. Of course.

My memories of my C-Section with Eleanor are just completely different because I had been in labor, but this time it was extremely calming and almost easy once we got past the needles I could feel. My amazing OBGYN was not scheduled to work, but CHOSE to come in and perform my surgery for me on his day off.... it was SUCH a blessing to know that he really cares for BJ and I, so I felt completely safe and ready once I saw him. My arms didn't shake as crazy as last time, we all kind of talked a bit through the surgery and they were making sure I was comfortable and if I was ultimately ready for what was about to happen... then before we knew it, they told BJ to get the camera out and get ready to meet BR #2. Again, I will never forget that moment for as long as I live.... Eleanor and BR #2's births are forever etched in my heart and head as the best cries I will ever hear.... and the best words I could ever hear from their daddy.... It's a...... (**word of warning, this video shows tummy and surgery so you may want to just listen if you have a light stomach!)

Meet William Joseph Rector III, aka "Tripp". 7lbs, 14oz - 20.75 in - 11:19am

We LOVE our baby BOY and can honestly say we were SHOCKED, elated and are ever-so-humbled that the Lord has entrusted to us another one of his precious creations. Tripp, you are the PERFECT addition to our family - we love you, we love you, we love you!!!

Still to come.... Eleanor and our families finding out that she had a little brother....!!!

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-24T19:24:00.001-06:00

From our house to yours.... hope you Thanksgiving was full of fellowship, blessing, family and friends. Ours was spent with our families here at our home, celebrating all that we have been blessed with and preparing for our newest blessing tomorrow.

Eleanor was not a fan of the meal... she really only liked the cranberries and throwing the rest of the food and laughing at everyone laughing at her....

She then wanted to spend most of the afternoon playing outside with Maebe, her best friend (my brother and Kristen's dog who doesn't like Eleanor as much as Eleanor likes her)

She enjoyed playing a little of America's favorite Thanksgiving pass-time...

And herding pumpkins from our porch all over the front lawn....

The Gross family.....

The Rector family...

The other Gross family (with Maebe and Baby Boy)...

And the other Rector family (with BR #2, due tomorrow morning!)

We have so much to be thankful for this year.... thank you, Lord for your abundant love and grace for us.

39 Weeks

2011-11-24T11:45:00.001-06:00

So, we made it! Tomorrow we get to meet YOU, little bug! WE CANNOT WAIT!!! In some ways, it feels as though we were just learning about you... in others, it is like, HURRY up and get here already! Today has been such a weird (if we are being honest) day... our last day as a family of 3, our last day with Eleanor as our "only" child, the eve before our Christmas when we will finally meet and welcome you into our family. Even writing these words seems quite surreal to me. It is only appropriate that today is Thanksgiving..... truly a holiday that completely embodies every ounce of my being... I am just so THANKFUL for you, for Eleanor, for daddy and our family. We are my favorite.

BR #2, tomorrow we will find out whether or not you are a boy or a girl, if you favor momma or daddy, if you look anything like your sister.... tomorrow is a milestone in our lives that I cannot wait to reach and we will never look back. We LOVE you and just can't wait to wrap our arms around you.

Today, I took my last belly pic with Auntie Kristen (26 weeks) and your baby boy cousin... can't wait until he gets here too.... so grateful to have our family expanding all around the same time.

If it isn't obvious, this week and especially today we are praying that you have a genuine heart of thanksgiving... that you live life with a THANKFUL, grateful heart for all that the Lord affords you. Life, breath, salvation, provision, friendship, blessings, trials and victories.... all will not only be glorifying to Him, but for your good... and quite frankly, you will have done or earned nothing of your own accord. All that you have and all that you are truly is a gift from God - and we pray that you live your life in the shadow of the cross, with a true perspective of His love for you and THANKFUL for each day that you have on this earth. BR #2, I don't know if you will ever truly fully grasp how much we love you and are THANKFUL that the Lord has blessed us with you... we cannot even put into words the amount of love we have for you, but will spend our days loving you in such a way that it merely gives you a small glimpse of how much your heavenly Father loves you.

See you in the morning, sweet one :).

Romans 8:28
"And we know that for those who love God all things work together for good, for those who are called according to his purpose."

Colossians 3:16
"Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly, teaching and admonishing one another in all wisdom, singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, with thankfulness in your hearts to God."

Psalm 100:3-4
"Know that the LORD, he is God! It is He who made us, and we are his; we are his people, and the sheep of his pasture. Enter his gates with thanksgiving, and his courts with praise! Give thanks to Him; bless his name!"

Thirty, Flirty and Thriving!

2011-11-22T16:04:00.001-06:00

So, not sure how "flirty" I actually am... good thing two out of three ain't bad (I hate the word ain't)! This past week I turned 30 years old - really?!? - 30! I truly feel like moments ago I was just a wee tot myself (or at least in college) thinking that 30 was ancient. YIKES! But now that it is here, I can truly say I am really excited about what this next decade holds.... and to kick it off, I figured I would reflect on 30 (cheesy, I know) things in my life that I am truly thankful for:

1. My relationship with Jesus Christ - I am humbled that He has chosen me, saved me and is continuing a work in me.

2. My husband, BJ. No one (on this earth) loves me the way he does - he is truly my best friend and I am blessed to be his wife.

3. Eleanor and BR #2 - I LOVE MY KIDS. I love no one on earth the way that I do them - it is instinctive, undeniable and completely refining. The joy they bring to my life is indescribable (even without having met BR #2 yet... I love them).

4. My family - Mike, Dot, Benny, Katie and Kristen are a true joy to me... I feel so blessed to have been raised by parents who love the Lord and each other very authentically and for siblings that I enjoy.

5. My in-laws - they too, are a blessing in the way that they have embraced me as their own and the unselfish ways that they love Eleanor and BR #2.

6. My friends - I really think that it is rare that people finds friends as near and dear in their life, as I have. I am humbled when I think about the ways that my nearest and dearest love, encourage, support and challenge me.... much less the fun we have together. I am thankful that friendships that began in junior high, high school and college are still just as important and a blessing to me to this day... regardless if distance or time comes between them some times. My friends mean everything to me.

7. My house - ya ya though it is not decorated the way I wish, there are a few things I would change and rooms that could be added... I am humbled that the Lord has given BJ and I a beautiful house to live in... it is warm, safe and more than we need (though I like to complain and act like I need more).

8. My car - sure I miss "The Great White" (the best car I ever owned and probably will ever own) but am thankful for my Tahoe... it is safe, big and runs great although there are a lot of miles on that sucker.... here is to hoping it lasts and lasts and lasts.

9. Being a stay-at-home-momma - so this is new, but I am incredibly humbled that as of now, the Lord has provided a way for me to stay home with our kids. It is a dream come true, merely because I can't get enough of our kids and pray that I can be their primary care-giver during the work day for years to come.

10. The Lord's provision - a lesson I am learning, but that He knows exactly WHAT we need and WHEN we need it. He alone is our provider and has been CONSTANT to BJ and I throughout our entire marriage, though my forgetful and fearful heart worries way too much about it.

11. Our church - we are approaching the first anniversary of The Door Church, where BJ and I are blessed to call our church home... I am thankful that we are challenged there, that the Gospel is the only message preached and for the community we have found. Knowing that we are partnering alongside of some amazing families in this community is exciting.

12. Freedom - I know I often take for granted the fact that we live in America, but knowing there are people groups being persecuted around the world for various reasons breaks my heart and makes me extremely grateful for America.

13. Music - literally, my favorite. Could be Keane, Eleanor singing herself to sleep or worship... I love music.

14. Epidurals - seeing as I am a few days away from receiving one, I am obviously very grateful for this and modern medicine, in general. Pretty incredible what doctors and medicine can do... so grateful that people are talented in this arena and use it to serve others.

15. My Health - We are kind of getting out of order now, but I am extremely grateful for my health... I have put my body through the ringer the past 30 years and honestly, I have found it to be quite resilient.

16. BJ's Health - Very blessed that I have a husband who is physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually healthy.

17. Our Children's Health - It isn't uncommon that you hear stories of babies / kids who struggle small to some really large sicknesses.... we are blessed that to-date Eleanor has really only been "sick" with an ear infection and cold once. My heart breaks when I hear of families who have kids with terminal illnesses - my soul grieves for such kids and families.

18. Sunny / Cool Fall days - I basically wish that I could live in San Diego, because their year round temperature is my favorite.

19. Rainy / Cool Fall days - I also love Seattle, and love days that I can cozy up with a cup of coffee, my kiddos and a movie while hearing rain on the roof.

20. Weddings - I have thoroughly enjoyed my job over the past 4 years.... it made "working" a pleasure and being part of a bride, groom and their families special day more than rewarding. I also am blessed by the experiences and relationships it afforded me... have stayed in some great hotels, eaten at some pretty fabulous restaurants and been challenged to push myself!

21. Our small group - we LOVE our community group through our church... our weekly gatherings are definitely a highlight to my week and I always leave encouraged and filled.

22. Naps - whether for Eleanor or for me... definitely a favorite time of my day.

23. Scriptures - knowing that I have the living Word of God at my fingertips every day is exciting and challenging... reading passages for the 100th time and it feeling like the first because of the depth of His Word is just phenomenal.

24. Pictures / Videos - I am so thankful for modern technology and for the thousands of pictures I have to document our family already.... pictures and videos of my kids (right now) are my most prized possession.

25. Breakfast - I love a good breakfast.... like pumpkin pancakes, blueberry waffles, the occasional donuts... and I love that BJ does too... so I love our weekend breakfast traditions on either a Saturday or Sunday morning.

25. Wine - I love me a good, spicy glass of red wine and can't wait to enjoy some here in the next few weeks after we figure out our nursing schedule!

26. Lessons Learned - although humbling and often met with restraint, I am grateful for the people in my life that sharpen and challenge me, call me out on my sin and when I am humble enough to admit my error and learn from it. Feels good when I actually embrace the fact that I am not perfect and have a lot of areas that need reproof.

27. Branson, Mo - Yep. I am thankful for that place.... for over half of my life I spent every summer there at kamp and have a genuine love for the memories made there at kamp and at the Insitute. I also love that BJ loves it too... and that hopefully our kids will be able to experience it (not so much Branson, as kamp).

28. Blogs - I so enjoy reading people's blogs (some of them I completely creep on because they have no clue who I am probably) and I love blogging. Not necessarily for anyone to read, but so that the memories, feelings and updates our little family has are recorded somewhere.

29. Holidays - I have the fondest memories of holidays growing up... I literally looked forward to every single one because something great was always in store (specifically loved Thanksgiving and Christmas because they were spent in San Antonio at my Mimi and Dardo's houses with tons of cousins). I want to make the holidays so special for our kids so that they have as much excitement for them as I did / still do!

30. Traveling - If BJ and I ever make a lot of money, really the only thing I can imagine wanting to splurge on is travel. I am SO thankful that growing up I had the opportunity to literally travel all over the world and there is nothing I enjoy more. Weather it be for education or relaxation, I LOVE to travel and am thankful for the places I have already experienced.

So ya, those are not all-inclusive (obviously) and are not in any particular order.... but I really have just been so blessed in my first 30 years here on this earth. Thank you, Lord, for each day you have given me... and thank you for knowing what the rest of my days hold. I choose to trust your plan and provision for all that is next - not forgetting all that I have already learned along the way.

Bed Head

2011-11-19T08:00:00.000-06:00

Now this is just awesome.

Who wouldn't want to snuggle this little nugget after nap time? Momma is loving these curls :).

38 Weeks

2011-11-18T10:25:00.001-06:00

Its the Final Countdown (did that song just come into your head?? I hope so.... shoutout GOB!).... we are 7 days away from meeting BR #2. We have officially made it to the days where Momma says, this is our last Friday as a family of three... such a sentimental sap, I am. I just can't believe it - truly cannot believe that we will have another precious baby to call our own here in a week (literally, like to the minute of when I am writing this!). BR #2, you are just so ready to make your entrance.... constantly moving and stretching inside, I really think you are starting to get uncomfortable. If not you, I sure am. You just do not stay still (which Eleanor didn't either, so I am not surprised). I haven't had any "I think I am going into labor" kind of pains or contractions this week, which is great, but I definitely had one evening where for about 30 minutes I was having contractions in my back again. That is where I went into labor with Eleanor and I had completely forgotten how painful that is - yikes!

My dreams have been INSANE this week. The weirdest one being that I delivered a baby girl (never dreamed a gender before!) but I think it falls flat when you put in the rest of the details.... she was about 3 years old, asian, and had a full set of teeth. Very vivid, but truly a bit unrealistic so I am not sold :).

I have had GREAT energy this week... I feel like I have been dragging for the past few weeks, so blame it on the combination of daddy letting me sleep in every morning this week, Mindy sending me to get pampered with a mani and pedi, or just quality time with sweet friends... I am feeling good! Don't get me wrong, I could definitely use a nap most afternoons and it is not uncommon that I try to close my eyes for like 20 minutes or so late in the day.

This week, we pray JOY over you.... specifically for a heart and countenance of laughter and spunk! Seems trivial to some, but this week daddy and I just talked about how we hope and pray our family just has FUN together... that we can be silly, we can laugh, we can play HARD together... that we truly enjoy each others company all of our days. We pray that you enjoy being in our family, that you LOVE your big sister Eleanor and that you both cherish the friendship that is readily available to you. She asks about you everyday... but not sure she fully gets what is going on (actually, almost positive she doesn't get it!). But, we know that she will LOVE you! We pray that you can find JOY in simplicity of life - what a true gift it is to be given every day you will have here on earth.... may they be celebrated by the way that you fill them. BR #2, we have so much JOY for you... the very thought of you gives us butterflies (or contractions?!). To know that you will be here in just one short week is nothing shy of a GIFT!

Psalms 126:3
"The LORD has done great things for us, and we are filled with joy"

Psalms 92:4
"For you, O LORD, have made me glad by your work; at the works of your hands I sing for joy."

1 Peter 1:8-9
"Though you have not seen him, you love him. Though you do not now see him, you believe in him and rejoice with joy that is inexpressible and filled with glory, obtaining the outcome of your faith, the salvation of your souls."

Gratitude

2011-11-15T11:19:00.001-06:00

Send some rain, would You send some rain?
'Cause the earth is dry and needs to drink again
And the sun is high and we are sinking in the shade

Would You send a cloud, thunder long and loud?
Let the sky grow black and send some mercy down
Surely You can see that we are thirsty and afraid

But maybe not, not today
Maybe You'll provide in other ways
And if that's the case . . .

We'll give thanks to You,With gratitude
For lessons learned in how to thirst for You
How to bless the very sun that warms our face
If You never send us rain.

Daily bread, give us daily bread
Bless our bodies, keep our children fed
Fill our cups, then fill them up again tonight

Wrap us up and warm us through
Tucked away beneath our sturdy roofs
Let us slumber safe from danger's view this time

Or maybe not, not today
Maybe You'll provide in other ways
And if that's the case . . .

We'll give thanks to You,With gratitude
A lesson learned to hunger after You
That a starry sky offers a better view if no roof is overhead
And if we never taste that bread.

Oh, the differences that often are between
What we want and what we really need

So grant us peace, Jesus, grant us peace
Move our hearts to hear a single beat
Between alibis and enemies tonight

Or maybe not, not today
Peace might be another world away
And if that's the case . . .

We'll give thanks to You,With gratitude
For lessons learned in how to trust in You
That we are blessed beyond what we could ever dream, in abundance or in need
And if You never grant us peace.

But Jesus, would you please?...

This is one of my all time favorite songs by Nichole Nordeman. As we approach the Thanksgiving holiday, the message in these lyrics have been resonating over and over within me.... Have I positioned myself and my family to truly believe that whatever lot the Lord gives is not only good, but enough?

He knows our wants, yes, but more importantly He knows our needs to keep us with an accurate perspective that He alone is our provider, He alone deserves our praise and our GRATITUDE despite life's circumstances. A huge lesson to be learned by me, over and over....

Today, I am thankful that I serve a God who knows my needs, my heart's desires and ultimately provides EVERY time, even if it looks different than what we expect. Today, I pray for a heart of gratitude not just in this season, but in all seasons... Of abundance, of growth, of pruning and of want. Gratitude for provision, and perhaps for a few lessons in truly learning to trust in Christ Jesus.

Family Pics October 2011

2011-11-11T16:53:00.001-06:00

I am a VERY sentimental person. So naturally, pictures are extremely important to me and probably the one area of our lives that regardless of our situation, I will want to invest in. Below are pictures from our first family photo shoot / Eleanor's one year pics / Momma's maternity pics.... I could NOT love them any more.... Susan Hudson (a dear friend of BJ and I) did a fabulous job!! It literally is going to be so hard to pick out ones that we will use, because I love them all!! Here is a small (albeit large) sampling from just a few of our favorites!!

Picture overload! If you made it to the end, congrats! This is just the tip of the iceberg... we love these pics of our girl! The next photo shoot will include BR #2... CRAZY!

37 Weeks

2011-11-10T10:50:00.000-06:00

Two Weeks. Two little bitty, dragging along, weeks until we get to meet you. BR #2, holy moly I can't wait. Last night, I was having contractions so hard that I almost made your daddy take me to the hospital.... but of course, about after an hour they completely subsided.... phew and darn all at the same time! I just can't wait to see your sweet face!!!

I have had the nastiest little cold this week, and it just stinks not being able to take anything... aside from it I am feeling great, so I really hope it curbs soon. We were at the doctor the other day and heard your precious heartbeat (right at 150bpm) when I realized that for the past few days I have not been able to taste or smell anything. I know that sounds weird that I just realized it, but apparently there was something awful coming through the air conditioner and daddy couldn't handle the smell.... me, nothing. The night before I had lasagna for dinner and thought it was absolutely bland.... should have figured. When we got home, I even put my nose right up to one of Eleanor's dirty diapers (TMI?) only to smell absolutely NOTHING. Since then, I have been quite claustrophobic in my own body because I am very aware that I smell and taste nothing. Even orange juice tastes like water.... BORING! I did some research and it could be due to the mixture of my cold and natural swelling that happens when you are pregnant..... from the looks of it, it seems this could continue until shortly after BR #2 is born. Really? This is going to make an amazing Thanksgiving (read: ya right!).

This week, we want to pray over you the very thing we are praying for ourselves... that you would keep yourself positioned correctly before Christ all of your days. Kind of vague, but basically, right now we are walking through a season where more than ever we have to TRUST that God is truly what He says He is.... in every aspect. Especially as Jehovah Jireh.... He ALONE is our provider. Not Daddy, not Daddy's job, but Him. And He provides not only for our every need physically (i. e. shelter, food, income, health, etc), but also emotionally and spiritually. Sweet one, Daddy and I will do our best in this life to protect and provide for you... but ultimately, you do not belong to us and we are completely relying on Him to act as the true provider... we are merely the hands on earth that get the sweet opportunity to shepherd you. This prayer is something Momma is literally struggling with today.... and I pray that not only I, but we as a family, can struggle well as we continue to watch the Lord prove Himself true.... Jehovah Jireh. Come what may, His grace and provision are sufficient.

14 more days.... be still, my heart!

Luke 12:27-19
"Consider the lilies, how they grow: they neither toil nor spin, yet I tell you, even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. But if God so clothes the grass, which is alive in the field today, and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, how much more will he clothe you, O you of little faith! And do not seek what you are to eat and what you are to drink, nor be worried."

Luke 11:9-12
"And I tell you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks it will be opened. What father among you, if his son asks for a fish, will instead of a fish give him a serpent; or if he asks for an egg, will give him a scorpion? If you then, who are evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the heavenly Father give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him!"

James 1: 17-18
"Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights with whom there is no variation or shadow due to change. Of his own will he brought us forth by the word of truth, that we should be a kind of firstfruits of his creatures."

Pigtails for the Punkin Bottom

2011-11-08T21:30:00.000-06:00

So, we need to perfect them still, but little girl can officially now wear PIGTAILS! When did my baby become a big girl? I just can't get over how quickly she is becoming more like a toddler and less like a baby.... oh the joy she adds to our days :).

Silly poop.

36 Weeks

2011-11-06T21:24:00.000-06:00

This past week we celebrated Halloween with your big sister and our small group... it is SO fun to imagine next year when you will be here, too. I can hardly wait to figure out what you will dress up as, I get butterflies thinking of you and Eleanor playing together and using your imaginations, and really I cannot wait to meet you. Cannot. Wait. To. Meet. You.

Daddy and I were talking about you the other night... we both are just completely at a loss as to whether or not we think you are a boy or a girl... we both had opinions with Eleanor (I always knew she was a girl) but I just truly don't have a feeling either way and haven't most of this pregnancy... some days I actually forget that you are definitely coming SOON and we will know! I walk by your bassinet everyday and just day dream what in the world it is going to be like.... I just cannot believe you will soon fill it. Eleanor is SLOWLY learning that it belongs to you, along with a few other things... she loves to say "Baby" and then push the bassinet all around even though we remind her to leave it be.... this could be real fun :).

I also got to help Aunt Kristen register this past week for your sweet baby boy cousin that will be a few months younger than you... I still just cannot believe how blessed we are that our family is growing by two babies this year - three total grandbabies all about 16 months apart - how much fun you are all going to have!

Lastly, Dot Dot and Grandpa sold their house this week.... I am kind of sad that you will not have the opportunity to play there - Momma, Daddy and Eleanor have loved that house. But we are just beyond thrilled that the Lord has answered their prayer... and crazy thrilled that they have to be out before Thanksgiving (which is truly crazy) because that means attention will be on YOU when you get here :). Who knows where they will end up, but we know wherever they build or buy it will be perfect.

This week, it has just been on my heart that you will just BELIEVE what is TRUE about you. Specifically, a few Scriptures just have kept resonating over and over within me that I can't help but to pray continuously for you...

Believe that you are PERFECT the way God made you -
Psalm 139:13-16
"For you formed my inward parts; you knitted me together in my mother’s womb. I praise you, for I am fearfully and wonderfully made. Wonderful are your works; my soul knows it very well. My frame was not hidden from you,when I was being made in secret, intricately woven in the depths of the earth. Your eyes saw my unformed substance;in your book were written, every one of them, the days that were formed for me, when as yet there was none of them."

Believe that you are a BLESSING to Momma and Daddy -
Psalm 127:3-4
"Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD, the fruit of the womb a reward. Like arrows in the hand of a warrior are the children of one’s youth."

Believe that you are created with GIFTS and God will use you in big ways -
1 Timothy 4:12
"Let no one despise you for your youth, but set the believers an example in speech, in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity."

We love you, sweet one. You are covered in prayer. You are wanted. You are a blessing. You are a gift. Only 3 more weeks....

Happy Halloween!

2011-11-01T15:46:00.002-05:00

Last night our small group from The Door Church hosted a little neighborhood halloween party.... lesson learned, pass out flyers when hosting said event the day before when it falls on a school night... we had a GREAT time, but wish we would have had more trick or treaters! They surely came, but unfortunately the masses arrived once it was too dark outside for kids to enjoy the bounce house, etc. We did pass out TONS of candy and everyone from our group brought some kind of snack / dessert for adults and kids to grab...

I just am really NOT the best historian, at all... but here are a few pictures of our night...

What do you dress up as when you are 9 months pregnant? Of course... JUNO. BJ had the great idea and played the part of Bleeker. Eleanor, well she was an orange tic-tac to go alongside of the theme.... creative much? Eh, we tried.

Wow... I look frumpy AND huge. Awesome!

When the party started, Eleanor went straight for the ice bucket, where she probably played for at least 30 minutes. She would grab ice, walk around and offer it to us or throw it on the sidewalk. Over and over and over.

That is, until she spotted her pal Leni Kate snacking and she wanted to take part.... Not to necessarily steal her food, but to help her out. Ridiculous. These next few pictures absolutely crack me up.

I am pretty sure that Eleanor convinced Leni Kate to come check out something with her.... I wonder what??

Of course... the ice bucket. We all should have known..... luckily, the real fun started when the kiddos started to figure out the bounce house! Again, love these pictures.....

Eleanor and Joshua, who was the lion from Wizard of Oz... his costume was adorable, but obviously the head-dress was a little too heavy for bouncing....

I know this one is through the netting, but if you look closely you can see the insane smiles on everyone's faces :)...

The bounce house had a slide attached and we wanted to see what Eleanor would think....Obviously, she was a big fan!

So why am I such a bad historian? These are literally all of the pictures that I have... oops on not taking pictures of the food table, of other families in their adorable costumes or of the trick-or-treaters who eventually came. Oops.

All in all it was a great night and we had a blast with our small group and our little punkin bottom! Can't wait for next year when we have two punkins!!!

Eleanor at 15 Months...

2011-10-31T08:00:00.000-05:00

I knew you would be, Eleanor, but you are quite the talker. It seems from the moment you awake until you go to bed you are babbling about something..... 3/4 of the time I have absolutely no clue what you are saying, but every once in a while you surprise us with the words you know:

Momma, Daddy, bye-bye, hi, lalo (hello), puppy (sometimes you say ruf-ruf), wa-wa (water), mee (milk), more (you also sign this), peece (please - you also sign this), tattoo (thank you - you also sign this), agh du (all done - you also sign this), no, i no no (i don't know - my very favorite thing you say right now!! you shrug your shoulders at the same time... where did you learn this?!), nanana (banana), nigh-nigh, shees (shoes - your very favorite thing EVER), bubble, baby (you say this often - hopefully that means you know what is coming), money (monkey), haaa (hot), bea (bear), hop, dees (this), ap-puh (apple), gee-bees (green beans), bees-bess (black beans), poon (spoon), turtee (turkey), chichen (chicken), nack (snack), cat (eww - I hate cats), poopoo (lovely dear), yuttee (yucky - you are still quite the dust buster so we hear this often when you find things to hand us), bow (which you now are starting to leave in!!), toes, ears, hai (hair), noos (nose), food (foot), baa (ball), book, wee (read), Ooshee (Lucy), bump, and last but not least, burp (that is right - your favorite word... and ALWAYS on cue after you hear one or you burp yourself... really?? So much to teach you, sweet girl)....

I am sure there are more that I am forgetting, but I am super impressed. It isn't uncommon that we hear babble babble babble "shees" babble babble... all while you are playing with a pair of shoes - genius, I say. :)

*For all I know you are way behind, but when I think about the fact that you are only 15 months, I am one very proud momma!

You have also become quite the snuggle bug... I mean, you LOVE to hug and kiss ALL over Momma and Daddy... when we pick you up from your crib you immediately wrap your arms around our neck REALLY tight and press your mouth against our cheek with all of your might (holding it there for a while). You also pat our back often when we hold you. I mean, how cute are you? You love sitting with us on the couch or on the chair, to hug our legs while we are working in the kitchen, and you love our laps to sit and read or play.... I am LOVING this stage. LOVING IT.

You are still a rock star at sleeping... loving both of your naps still, which has been a great blessing because if you are awake you want to play hard... and well, this Momma gets worn out a little faster than normal, right now.

You love to go on walks... but you literally love to go on walks. No more stroller.... you want to go all through our neighborhood either hand in hand with us or a few steps ahead... and because you are still quite the dust-buster, you always hoard acorns, leaves and sticks in your hands as you go.

You weigh about 18lbs now - woohoo - and are still in size 3 diapers and 6-12 month clothes. You have more pairs of shoes than Momma (at least current trends) and your hair is getting so long and the ends are curling... I love it.

You love shees (shoes) a LOT. Like, you always want to wear them, you often have another pair in your hand, sometimes you take them to nap with you and if you can get into Momma's shoes it is just the coolest thing in the world to you. You also love glasses. So.... unlike your Momma, I am thinking you are going to be an accessory girl, yikes.

You really do listen to instruction and are SO obedient most of the time... if we ask you to do something, you pretty much always do it (with the occasional pretending that you can't hear me). If I count to 3 you know I mean business, so you typically turn your ears at that point. You love to clean up your toys, you love to feed yourself with a poon (spoon) and you JUST started holding your bottle (literally like 3 days ago! - of course you would figure it out by the time we are weaning you from it!).

You are attached to Krissy-bear and carry her everywhere... you like to sleep with her too.

You love to do sign language, and it is like all of the sudden everything clicked. We haven't even been that diligent with you, but you definitely sign for more, please, thank you, all done and clean up.

You love to sing and dance (YES!)... your current favorite song is "la-la-la... say hello to Eleanor..." (from Kindermusik).

You know where your eyes, nose, ears, mouth, teeth, tongue, hair, toes, feet, hands and belly button are.... again, we haven't really been diligent with this, so I am very impressed :).

You are a climber... you love to climb up Momma and Daddy to our shoulders, you love to climb on the sofa, chairs or ottoman.

You are such a JOY and a light to our days... we miss you during your naps and when you go to bed so early before us... Daddy and I talk about that often... we are so blessed to have you in our home, sweet girl. You are going to be SUCH a good big sister!!

35 Weeks

2011-10-30T15:46:00.000-05:00

We made it.... I am officially a STAY AT HOME MOMMA!!! I had my last wedding this week (which really was so incredibly bittersweet!) and I have officially transitioned to my new position of Momma, full time. My last wedding was truly such a fun, sweet final project for me... and praise the Lord, I felt great the entire time! Mind you, Sunday I was exhausted, but there was no fear that BR #2 would be making an unscheduled, premature arrival.

Sunday evening I spent some time with the ladies from our small group... it was so incredibly refreshing and encouraging. Momma and Daddy are so blessed by the community that we have found through The Door Church, and are so excited for the relationships that the Lord has formed already in just the short time we have been there. Having the opportunity to get to know, support, love, and be supported by other families in the same life stage as us have been nothing shy of a complete answer to prayer.

I also went to the doctor this past week and all is great - Dr. Richards said that I am measuring smaller than I actually am but that I am growing every week so it is not a good or bad thing, just a fact. Quite frankly, I'll take it - as long as BR #2 is healthy and growing strong - who needs to be bigger just to be bigger, right? (As I say this I am in sweats, not jeans!). This pregnancy in many ways is just FLYING by... we will meet you in less than 4 weeks from today (barring everything continues on track) and that is just insane to me. We got the bassinet back yesterday from a friend who had borrowed it, and it is just SO weird seeing it back in our home again... seems like only yesterday Eleanor was in it and yet holy moly, BR #2 will soon fill it. Just nuts.

34 Weeks

2011-10-24T15:06:00.000-05:00

BR #2, this week Momma thought you may have made a surprise appearance... not something that I was hoping for, although I cannot wait to meet you. No, it came on quite strong while working a wedding (one of my favorite weddings I have done thus far!) and I literally thought by the end of the evening I may end up in labor and delivery! Talk about Braxton Hicks!! Good news is, you obviously stayed in... good job, punkin!

We also took family pictures this week to make sure that we captured your big sister, right now... and of course, my belly. I can't wait to see them and hopefully we got a few that we can use in your room of this growing belly. Next time we have a picture session, YOU will be in them - how exciting!! It is hard to believe that your due date is so rapidly approaching, and yet it truly cannot get here fast enough. I am "nesting" to some degree still... in that I am wanting to completely sell off every last piece of furniture that we have to start making our house more like a home... we have almost been here two years and it is VERY hard to tell :). Hopefully we will have some things done by the time that you get here... but regardless, it is my mission now to actually nest into this house... for as long as we are here. Just like we prayed for Eleanor, we pray that regardless of the house that you live in... you always feel safe, loved and accepted at HOME.

BR #2, we pray this week that you would truly live for the reward(s) that cannot be found here on this earth... that your heart, soul, mind and strength would be consumed with eternal perspective and genuine love for the Lord. The deal is this... there is always going to be someone "better" than you, faster than you, smarter than you, prettier / more handsome than you, wealthier than you, more popular than you, etc.... while it is impossible to ignore competition and comparisons, we do pray that your true, ultimate worth comes not from how you measure up to others, but how you are LOVED, redeemed and unconditionally accepted by Christ (Momma and Daddy, too - minus the redemption part). It truly does not matter what others will think of you.... if they poke fun, insult, compete, belittle or exclude you... especially on account of what you believe (should you chose to accept Jesus as your Savior)... when you stand firm, when you press on, when you focus on who you belong to, THAT is true worship and adoration of Him. That is where you are building for yourself accolades in eternity, a proud Father who welcomes you and rejoices over you... like we prayed last week, it is almost inevitable that your faith will ostracize you at some point... but if you remain faithful, oh the blessing and worship that brings to God... and great will be your reward in eternity.... eternity itself with the one, true God.

Matthew 5:11-12
"Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you because of me. Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven, for in the same way they persecuted the prophets who were before you."

Matthew 25:21
"His master replied, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant! You have been faithful with a few things; I will put you in charge of many things. Come and share your master’s happiness!"

Zephaniah 3:17
"The LORD your God is with you, the Mighty Warrior who saves. He will take great delight in you; in his love he will no longer rebuke you, but will rejoice over you with singing.”

33 Weeks

2011-10-15T20:43:00.000-05:00

This past week we celebrated Momma and Daddy's anniversary... it is hard to believe we have only been married for 3 years and in just a few short weeks will have 2 babies in our home!! It is times like these when I kind of look at us and laugh... so I wonder what the rest of the world thinks (like it matters). I wish I had some lavish, beautiful story about our anniversary this year.... but honestly, we both had to work and barely even saw each other! We are planning on celebrating soon... just need to get through these last couple of weeks working!

As far as you go, BR #2... you can tell from the picture to the right that you are getting big! At least, you better be because Momma is getting big! I feel you up in my rib cage, I feel you down in my hip flexors.... and we have been watching you do the wave now for a few days slowly across my tummy with either a foot or an elbow. I forgot how fun it is to see those deliberate movements, but I also forgot how much they hurt. I'll be honest... it is not comfortable at all and there have been few times where a kick will take my breath away.... very similar to your sister - so you will either dance or play soccer... and I bet you dance right out of my tummy like Eleanor did (little girl still dances... from the moment she was about 4 weeks old doing her "kick starts" to now!). So if you look up to her at all, I imagine we will have quite the busy-body little kiddos!

This week... we are praying strength, courage and confidence over you..... in light of the beatitude where Christ claims that the righteous will be persecuted... we trust and pray that this includes you. Of course the last thing in the world I want for you, precious one, would be that you feel persecuted... such a strong term.... similar words or ideas of persecution could be as simple as being made fun of, badgered, mocked or excluded... and quite frankly, regardless of your salvation you will definitely experience one if not all of these at some point in your life. But we pray that in light of being a child of God, you can stand confident - against the grain - not afraid to stand up for what you believe in even if it costs you popularity, friends or status. Know this... your reward is Christ, your reward is in heaven... nothing in this life that would serve as a "reward" even lasts, including popularity, friends or your status. So, knowing that you are coming into a world full of competition and exclusivity, we truly just pray that you have confidence in who and WHOSE you are... that you will not be shaken, nor disillusioned by the temptation to fit in, denying yourself. I hope I am not making light of this beatitude.... but I feel like it is pretty weighty.... one thing we promise you is to be honest with you growing up... talk about everything... including how BLESSED you are to live in a country where you are FREE to believe, worship and be who you are. Sweet one, it is not that way across the world and there are many who live a tortured life and ultimately lose it on behalf of their belief in Christ. Their confidence rests solely in the promise that great is their reward in heaven, great is their reward in Christ... may your little struggles, confidence shakers, be easy to overcome in the reality of your freedom.

Matthew 5:10
"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven."

James 5:11
"Behold, we consider those blessed who remained steadfast..."

1 Corinthians 7:22-23
"For he who was called in the Lord as a slave is a freedman of the Lord. Likewise he who was free when called is a slave of Christ. You were bought with a price; do not become slaves of men."

Three Years Later....

2011-10-11T08:00:00.000-05:00

It is so hard to believe that BJ and I are celebrating our third anniversary today.... in some ways, I can't believe that it has already been three years and in others, its like... really, only three??? I think the reason for the latter can be summed up in two simple statements: Eleanor and BR #2.

In all seriousness, however, I can't believe how quickly time has passed up by... it truly only feels like yesterday that BJ was pursuing me and I was falling for him. I can still remember almost everything, like it was yesterday.... our long walks around the neighborhood, cooking breakfast and dinner together, going to Astoria with my family, him asking for my hand multiple times :) and ultimately, the best day of our lives... aside from this day, of course.

Here is a highlight video from our wedding day.... I was almost tempted to post the entire video because our wedding was my absolute favorite... nothing would I have changed (except for it to have lasted longer!). I can still hear the brass playing, Callie and Paul singing (the Phil Wickham song from the video), the vows spoken. I can still remember faces in the congregation, those who love us so well standing beside us. While really the majority is a blur, I remember loving nothing more than dancing all night with family and friends to the Spazmatics... but most of all, I remember the butterfly feeling of KNOWING I was the luckiest girl in the world to let go of the last name Gross (sorry Mom and Dad) and to inherit the last name Rector.

I can't believe where all we have been these last few years together as husband and wife.... it would be an absolute fib if I said these years haven't proven to be the hardest, most trying years of our lives... but I have to immediately follow that up with the fact that hands down they have been the absolute BEST, most refining years yet.

BJ - You love me so well. Thank you for pursuing Christ the way that you do and for desiring that He be the head of our home. Thank you for loving the unlovable parts of me... for calling me beautiful, inside and out. Thank you for giving me my baby girl, Eleanor... she truly is the best parts of you and me put together and I couldn't love her any more. Thank you for the way that you love her. Thank you, in advance, for BR #2... I can't wait to know another version of you and I combined. Thank you for working really hard so that I can stay home and be a momma to these babies... it truly is my dream come true, and I know it is a BIG sacrifice you are making. Thank you for reminding me that you are not my provider, God is. Thank you for choosing me... for wanting to spend the rest of your days on this earth with me by your side, I am so humbled.

I know I am not the best at showing affection or offering words of affirmation... the two things you appreciate most. But know that I LOVE YOU with my entire being, I respect you and and that you are my very best friend. I know I am not the best at it, but I will spend the rest of my life trying to truly show you that these are not empty words. Happy Anniversary, Stud... I love you.

It's a BOY!!!!!

2011-10-10T16:08:00.003-05:00

Once upon a time, my older brother Benny fell in love with Kristen... a beautiful girl inside and out who is definitely out of his league. But for whatever reason, she said yes when he asked her to spend the rest of her life with him!

5 years ago this past summer, we all headed to Cabo to celebrate them becoming man and wife...

Today, we found out that she is carrying on the GROSS legacy.... it is true, Baby B-O-Y Gross is due March 1st and we can't wait!!! WE LOVE YOU Baby BOY and can't wait to meet you! Eleanor and BR #2 are going to have so much fun playing with you!

Cheers to the beautiful Momma, the excited Daddy and the Healthy BOY inside!

32 Weeks

2011-10-09T16:42:00.004-05:00

This week we got to hear that precious heartbeat... right at 136, which is pretty much the average for both you and Eleanor, typically you hover anywhere from 135 - 160. You are still moving, moving, moving and quite frankly it hurts :). There are so many kicks that often literally take my breath away or make me hunch over - I imagine you will be just like Eleanor, dancing out of the womb... how happy that would make your Momma :).

We were able to spend the weekend with some of our favorite friends, Jenn and Chris Massey who came in to town from Arkansas. Precious one, again, we pray that you have true, deep friendships that completely bless your life... it really does make all of the difference in the world. We pray that your friendships would be some that would encourage you, challenge you, sharpen you and just add JOY to your years. We sure hope that you and Eleanor are friends like this - I can't imagine anything more fun or exciting than hearing you two playing, laughing, dreaming and growing together!

BR #2, we pray that you would be a Peacemaker.... I absolutely love this quote and feel like it truly sums up our prayer for you in this:
"Now Peacemaking is a divine work. For peace means reconciliation, and God is the author of peace and of reconciliation. … It is hardly surprising, therefore, that the particular blessing which attaches to peacemakers is that "they shall be called sons of God." For they are seeking to do what their Father has done, loving people with his love." - John R. W. Stott
Sweet one, we pray that you first and foremost receive the reconciliation offered to you in Christ to our Heavenly Father... recognizing that he is the author and initiator of true peace. From there, may your actions towards the Lord, your family, your friends, strangers and those who would be likely enemies be ones that are rooted in extending peace, reconciliation, grace, mercy and love. We pray, as we pray this over ourselves, that the Holy Spirit's working in your heart would lift your countenance to a love radically opposed and unfamiliar to the rest of the world.... only prompted by your response to the gospel. This is going to be hard, sweet baby, because when wounded our natural instinct would be to shut down, turn away or even worse.. to wound back. You will unfortunately see that in our house, with your friends and all over this world... and it is likely that you won't receive the same treatment in return should you allow the Holy Spirit to resonate peace through you - but oh that it would be instilled in you, something you yield to even in life's most difficult moments, something you offer when others offer you the ugly. How precious and transforming would that be?

Matthew 5:9
"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they shall be called sons of God."

Proverbs 12:20
"Deceit is in the heart of those who devise evil, but those who plan peace have joy."

James 3:18
"And a harvest of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace."

31 Weeks

2011-10-04T21:10:00.000-05:00

I don't know if it is a good or bad thing if I can't really recall what all happened this week.... I guess it comes with a little preggo brain, mommy brain and well.... just some good old fashion fatigue. Truly the only thing that comes to mind initially is the week in sports - ha! Daddy will be so proud. Except for that it sticks out because of two major flops by our teams... the Aggies lost against Arkansas (a game that prior to half-time looked like we had sealed up) and the Cowboys lost against the Lions (similarly, losing a 20 point lead in the second half)... just shameful. The good news in sports - the Rangers won the first round of the playoffs and are getting ready to play to find out if they will be AL champions again this year... wow, WHO AM I??? What happened to this ballerina loving, dance crazy, hip-hopper Momma who now is concerned with football and baseball? Maybe you are a boy, BR #2... haha!

We also had the opportunity to spend some good quality time with great friends over the course of the week... whether it was watching the games with the Rives, celebrating Marina's birthday with the gang or enjoying our small group - I truly felt full this week with just some of the friendships that we are able to enjoy. Such a blessing to have friends, and family where you can feel safe, yourself, known... BR #2 we pray that you and Eleanor ALWAYS feel full at home... that you feel confident that you are LOVED, accepted, safe and known by your Daddy and Momma, by your siblings. Our greatest desire would be that you wouldn't look aimlessly to find your worth, but that you would rest in knowing you are not only our child that we love with all of our heart, but your are God's child, His creation, His beloved... find your worth and confidence knowing that, sweet one.

We pray that you are Pure in Heart.... BR #2, the world is going to convince you that your success and acceptance comes from what your outside portrays: your looks, your accolades, your service, your giving, your possessions and unfortunately, even your faith... but that can be quite the problem, hindrance in our lives. We, MOMMA included!!, get so wrapped up in the appearance of our actions, our words or our motives that often they come from a nasty place in our hearts.... one that is motivated by self-preservation or people pleasing or a "pharisee-like" mindset. But you know what is both liberating and completely scary at the same time??... the Lord looks at your HEART. It doesn't matter if you can talk the talk and look like you are walking it if your heart is truly not wrapped in the truths of the gospel, motivated and moved by the Spirit and purely in pursuit of relationship with Christ.... in fact, that can be quite gross, but it is a genuine struggle that all people face (you will too). Not only is this a turn off to an unbelieving world, the Lord does not delight in it! We just pray that you would greatly desire to pursue Christ out of the purity of a response to His outpouring of love on you... that it wouldn't be to make us proud, because you feel like you have to do so, that you are living in fear if you do not or that it wouldn't be to make yourself look better. We pray that you would have a Pure Heart, washed by the Word of Christ and that would allow you to truly encounter the Lord to be changed, transformed, sanctified as you grow every day of your precious life. We are not praying you will be perfect, obviously, because you will not be perfect. We just pray that you don't pretend to be, that you flee from hypocrisy and cleave to the gospel and its transforming power that it can and will have on your heart. BR #2, we love you and thank our sweet Savior for your life... we cannot wait to meet you.

Matthew 5: 8
"Blessed are the pure in heart, for they shall see God."

Matthew 23:27-28
"Woe to you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites! For you are like whitewashed tombs, which outwardly appear beautiful, but within are full of dead people’s bones and all uncleanness. So you also outwardly appear righteous to others, but within you are full of hypocrisy and lawlessness."

30 Weeks

2011-09-29T11:30:00.003-05:00

Yep, unfortunately it is true.... I have failed again at getting a weekly preggo pick taken in my original spot. Hey, at least I do have this pic (albeit stolen from a group picture). This week was just quite the busy / interesting one for the family. Daddy went out of town on business, Eleanor had her first ear infection and well, when Daddy got back into town he and Momma both got the stomach flu... so hey, at least we are all still standing!

Not only that, I am really feeling good (minus the stomach flu part, that thankfully left this morning!)... BR #2, you are just a mover and a shaker. You are constantly wiggling, pushing and prodding on Momma's tummy... it definitely sometimes hurts, but I just love the feeling. I totally remember this stage from when Eleanor was inside (more than initial kicks)... sometimes it is hard to even catch a full breath - but I am so so thankful for these movements and pray that you keep it up (just slim them down a bit at night, eh?).

We are STARTING to get ready for your arrival - that just sounds ridiculous, but we are beginning to get things ready for you to make an entrance. Last week when Daddy was out out town, Dot Dot came to spend a few days to help me out just organizing and "nesting" (I am starting this BIG TIME). We went through all of Eleanor's clothes and filled 4 tubs full into different categories of sizes.... and we even have a baby boy tub ready to go... since we didn't know if Eleanor was a boy or girl before she came, either, so many people gave either gender neutral or boy and girl things... so Momma has some baby boy clothes ready to go for the first week or so of your life :).... if needed. Still can't decide if I have a feeling either way... I honestly have NO hunch as to what I think you are... I love it! We also officially moved Eleanor to a big girl car seat yesterday... no more Orbit for her. Nope, that sucker is getting cleaned and ready for YOU!! I get tears in my eyes just thinking about both things: 1. That Eleanor is no longer in the car seat we brought her home from the hospital in and 2. That in less than 2 months YOU will be. I just can't wait, BR #2. Can't wait.

BR #2, we pray this week that you have a heart of Mercy.... that you would respond to the generous outpouring of Mercy that Christ offers to your life and that you would daily feel the weight of this magnificent pardoning He offers through His death and resurrection, just through believing it is complete in Him, alone. If you truly understand, accept and believe this radical and humbling redemption - you will then not only be more willing, but only then will you be capable of offering mercy to others.... when you allow the gospel message of Christ's salvation to take root in your heart, you then allow the Spirit to begin moving in you to give you the dislocated heart off of yourself and onto a dying world, a hurting friend, a bitter enemy... a heart that looks very different than the rest of the world... one that would be eager to heal, slow to judge, to forgive, restore and aid when necessary. Our prayer would be that it wouldn't be morality or "social justice" that drives you to have a heart that cares to serve, but that it would be the inner workings of the Holy Spirit in your precious life that simply overflows as worship to your Creator and Savior : a true response based on the great mercy He poured out for you. BR #2, this idea, this goal is not an easy one to attain or to purely profess as the act of the Spirit... but we pray that your sweet heart is so fully wrapped in the overwhelming assurance of the gospel that again, it is the evidence of the Spirit working in your life. BR #2, hurry up and get here, as we can't wait to meet you.... but stay in until you are supposed to, ok? We love you, sweet one.

Matthew 5:7
"Blessed are the merciful, for they shall receive mercy."

Matthew 25: 34-39
"Then the King will say to those on his right, 'Come, you who are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you clothed me, I was sick and you visited me, I was in prison and you came to me.' Then the righteous will answer him, saying, 'Lord, when did we see you hungry and feed you, or thirsty and give you drink? And when did we see you a stranger and welcome you, or naked and clothe you? And when did we see you sick or in prison and visit you?' And the King will answer them, 'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me."

James 3:17
"But the wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere."

Tea for Two

2011-09-23T10:00:00.000-05:00

Eleanor and I had our very first tea part the other day... it was a rite of passage for my little girl (and me), and thanks to Jenna, apparently will become a very common occurrence in our household. Eleanor was ALL over it... and was very polite, if you ask me!

My little lady loved faking the whole bit... passing out cakes, pouring spots of tea and drinking the cup over and over...

Eleanor also learned (who knows how?!?!) to blow on the hot tea before taking a sip... hilarious!

Then she found Momma's brush... and our first tea party was over.

Eleanor, we must do it again soon.

Hanging with LuLu

2011-09-22T10:00:00.000-05:00

Mindy is out of town on vacation with her Mom and Sis-in-law this week, so on Wednesday Eleanor and I spent the day with Lucy to give Josh's mom the day off! My mom was generous enough to come help, as well, just in case we had any hiccups, but we had SO much fun! The girls actually played pretty well together, which honestly, is close to a first... and they both napped well, which was imperative for survival :). Great practice for BR #2.... but ohh--weee, this Momma is tired!!

Eleanor in all of her bed head glory was so excited to have Lucy come and play...

It took Lucy a little while to warm up to Eleanor... no tears, just a little timid!

It also doesn't help that Eleanor's idea of getting her attention usually means hitting her or pulling her hair...

There were many times that Lucy tried climbing up me to escape... look at Eleanor scoping out her target in the background, baha!

Then Dot-Dot did some laundry... and well, BOTH girls wanted to take part. What is it about babies and dryers? They couldn't get enough...

And again, Eleanor really wanting Lucy's attention.... at least it was met with no tears or fear as they day went on... Lucy actually played back and often initiated a game of chase!

Eleanor obviously won... and decided her prize would be Lucy's bow.

Momma said no, but you can tell that Eleanor really didn't care. "Oops - sorry mom"

Oh girls, you are both TOO much. I love you little ladies and can't wait to see the women you become... oh the memories we will make! Can't wait until it's Mindy's turn to take E... haha!

29 Weeks

2011-09-21T21:52:00.003-05:00

All dressed up to work I go.... this week I had one of my last three weddings - that is right, only two more to go! It is SO strange writing that... so strange living it.... I cannot believe the wonderful chapter of wedding planning is coming to a close (for now). It has been such a large part of my life and something I truly love, so to see it end is bittersweet... but SO SO sweet to stay home with my babies. Again, a huge step of faith for Momma and Daddy, but we really believe that the Lord is calling us to this and we are ecstatic!

You have become quite the little booger... you rarely keep still, which is such a blessing, but it is getting tight in there! I am starting to feel a bit uncomfortable - especially by the end of the day... normally in my upper back but sometimes in my lower tummy... and sleeping is starting to be more of a task to get in the right position. Again, worth it!

This week, praying over your precious life is becoming more real (because of the above description of our mover and shaker) and it is fitting that we would pray that you would hunger and thirst for righteousness. We are fortunate enough to live in a country where you will most likely never really know what it means to hunger and thirst. Sure, there are going to be times that you will be "starving" and have to eat or feel desperate for a drink, but nothing that is permanent or even an ordeal that won't be fixed almost immediately. Not everyone is so blessed, sweet one, and I pray we never take that for granted. But I do pray that you truly hunger and thirst.... that you feel the emptiness, the intense pains, the discomfort, the desperation... and that satisfaction and fullness would come from a pursuit towards righteousness... a pursuit to know Jesus more, to find community that builds - encourages - sharpens you, a pursuit that would ensure you would never hunger or thirst more.... that you would find satisfaction and completeness in Jesus Christ, alone. No question you will find that other things will distract you from this pursuit... whether it be material possessions, status, accomplishments, etc... no question that at some point or another you will probably pursue these things.... even hunger or thirst for them. But you will find, BR #2, that they do not satisfy.... the trends always change, someone will always be faster or better, and well.... we are our own worst enemy when we accomplish something and want to push yourself even further. What does satisfy? The unending, forever - searchable pursuit, hunger and thirst, for righteousness. Not a righteousness that is of yourself or brings glory to yourself, but the righteousness that is only found in Christ.

Matthew 5:6
"Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied."

Psalm 63:1, 5
"O God, you are my God; earnestly I seek you; my soul thirsts for you; my flesh faints for you, as in a dry and weary land where there is no water... My soul will be satisfied as with fat and rich food, and my mouth will praise you with joyful lips..."

John 6:35
"Jesus said to them, 'I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst."

Eleanor :: Thirteen Months Old

2011-09-16T13:00:00.000-05:00

So, in order to set myself up for success.... I told myself that outside of the pregnancy series, I was going to be a faithful scribe for each of our children's first year of life. Committing to monthly posts (like I did for Eleanor) to note how quickly they change from newborn to toddler.... going beyond that (with as many kids as we want) is a commitment I don't want to make in fear that kids down the road really get the shaft :). However..... there are just too many things I don't want to forget that Eleanor is doing right now, so an update is necessary:

*We have a full-blown walker.... sometimes runner. It took Eleanor about 2 weeks to really feel comfortable with walking (and she definitely preferred crawling) but I would say by the time we hit 13 months she was not only a walker, but a RUNNER. She is so confident on her feet, even though it looks awfully wobbly....

*She has NO fear. We often say that about the pool because I really do think it we let her she would try to jump off of the diving board already. But she also isn't afraid when she has crashes... she gets really excited sometimes when running and just trips over her feet.... but she has yet to miss a beat. Never once can I recall tears from a fall (with the exception of the other day in Momma and Daddy's big bathtub - yep, she was racing up and down the tub even with us trying to control her, slipped and I am pretty sure my reaction FREAKED her out more than anything). Instead, whether she falls from walking or stumbles when playing, she just carries on.... tough cookie, she is.

*She is still an AMAZING sleeper, I mean AMAZING. Waking up at 8:30 most mornings, napping from about 10:30 - 12:15, napping again from about 2:45 - 4:30 and bed by 8:15. She actually asks to take her naps when she is playing sometimes... she will just look at you and all the sudden say "nigh-nigh".... we go back to her room, lay her down and she is out! AMAZING.

*Most mornings, and after every nap, we basically have to go get her because she will not make a peep when she wakes up... she will just sit there and literally lounge on the bumper pads with one foot up just sucking on her pacis and relaxing. It is ridiculous.

*Every time we take her from the crib we ask her where her pacis go... and everytime, she immediately throws them back into the crib. Them? Yes... Eleanor sleeps with about 6 pacis because she is known for throwing them in her sleep. We often go get her in the morning to find 3-4 thrown around the room.

*She is SO good at following directions... for example, she loves shoes. So even though we try not to let her, she often finds ANYONE'S shoes to play with... when we discover her, we normally just have to tell her to take them to Momma, for example. And she always does... takes and drops off her shoes to whomever they belong to without debate. When it is time for bed at night, whoever puts her down will tell her to kiss and say "nigh-nigh" to whoever isn't, she walks to us, gives us a big slobbery kiss, then walks to her room saying "nigh-nigh" the rest of the way. So sweet.

*She is talking up a storm... SO wish I knew what half of it was, but her favorite words are Momma, Daddy, Da-Da (Dot Dot), uh-oh (not doubt her VERY favorite word), wa-wa (water), bebe (baby), shhhh (shoes), puhhh (puppy), bye-bye (no doubt her second very favorite word), nigh-nigh, ti-ti-ti (tickle, tickle), nannanna (banana), Nanna, Pa-Paw, ba-ba (bottle), ha (hot) and numi (yummy).

*She LOVES milk and LOVES water. Girlfriend goes through 2-3 sippy cups of water a day, easy.

*She is a ham - absolutely LOVES to be the center of attention and actually knows when she is not and works for it. Her current favorite is to give you the biggest, hardest, CHEESIEST smile that squishes up her entire face and shows all of her gums just to get you to notice her. She does this to us, to family, to strangers... especially when she thinks she has done something cool and wants you to notice (like playing her xylophone, or something).

*She loves to tickle people's toes.... it all started about a week ago, but she sees toes and she is off to ti-ti-ti them, so random!

*She has started to cuddle again... love it. Mostly when she gets up from naps, but even sometimes when she is playing she will just stop and climb up on us to cuddle and kiss. Talk about melting your heart.

*She loves to kiss... and not just a little smooch, but will press her open mouth against us for about 10 seconds while making a loud smooching sound... all while hugging our necks pretty tightly. (I love it).

*She has started having separation issues a little bit... mainly when we are not home and she isn't comfortable with her surroundings, but she has become quite attached to her daddy and momma.

*She loves playing with other kids, but unfortunately does not understand how to be soft or to share. She typically steals toys and to get friend's attention either hits or sits on them... we are working on it. I really think she is trying to play, but girlfriend needs to get it figured out before BR #2 arrives.

*She is into everything and definitely has a mind of her own. She knows the difference between right and wrong and makes a very obvious face when she knows she is doing wrong. Normally, if she is going to touch or do something that we have told her not to do, she shakes her head and says "no-no-no" over and over WHILE doing what we told her not to. How can you not laugh at that? It is hilarious, but also means she may be giving us a run for our money pretty soon.

*She loves to brush her hair, herself. After every bath she does this while we put on lotion and clothes. If it is momma's brush, even better.

*She still loves to jump - after every nap, or even first think in the morning as soon as you pick her up she starts jumping in your arms like she is on a horse. Grandpa mentioned this could prove to be expensive for us, as she probably will want a horse soon. Great.

*If she does something and we laugh, you can pretty much guarantee that you will see the same behavior repeated ten to fifteen more times... she loves to get a rise out of us, or really any audience, so if it works, she sticks to it. So there are a lot of things that she does that we regret laughing at... and OFTEN we have to hold it in until she is not looking so we don't encourage whatever it is she is doing.... example, she started throwing her food pieces on the floor and saying "uh-oh" everytime, because one time she accidentally dropped a piece and said "uh-oh"... a "funny" habit we are now trying to break. Another time she had her finger up her nose and Momma gasped and said "get your finger out of your nose".... Eleanor then belly laughed like I have never head before and continued to jam her finger all the way to her brain over and over, while laughing. Lovely.

*She is still in size 3-12 month clothes... yep, that is the large range that she can wear. If it is pajamas, we are basically in 12 month because of length... dresses, tops, shorts.... we can wear anywhere in that range, but the majority of her clothes are still 9 months.

*She still rides in the carseat she came home from the hospital in... doesn't even know what she is missing out on yet, but we are hoping to transition her soon (even though with her weight and height we don't need to) so that she is used to the next seat when BR #2 comes.

*She loves to talk on the phone... but not the real phone, she doesn't get that. She will do speaker, but mainly always thinks everyone is Daddy. If it is not really a phone, she talks on it all day (when I ask her who she is talking to she always says Daddy).

*She knows where her ears, nose (the inside too - yuck) and hair are... still working on eyes, mouth and belly.

*She can count to 3... it normally takes prompting and sometimes repeating after us, but every once in a while she will just count to 3... this is because the only way I could keep her still when changing her diaper for the last few months was if I counted the steps of the process to 3.

*She copies EVERYTHING we do.... noises, especially. When Daddy gives her a raspberry, she gives him a raspberry, when we pop our tongue on the roof of our mouth, she does, when we say ouch, she says ouch. She is watching everything, soaking it up and repeating behaviors like crazy... yikes, time to watch our words, tones and behaviors!

*Not quite sure how she picked up on this (probably from copying us) but we don't use the nose sucker anymore; Eleanor knows how to blow her nose! It is hilarious and quite helpful.

*She has started to blow on her food as if it was hot.... typically, she is blowing on grapes or sliced turkey; she is completely confused.

*She loves to turn lights off and on.

*You ask her what snakes do? She sticks out her tongue... thanks Pa-Paw :).

*Her hair is long enough to put in a fountain head ponytail... and she leaves it in all day. Bows are still not her favorites, but every once in awhile we will have one stay put for a few hours. When she pulls her bows out, she always brings them back to me but tries to put them in her own hair... if I do it, she takes it right back out... meaning once a bow is out, its out.

*Her favorite foods are: Chick-fil-a nuggets (oops), turkey, bananas, grapes, bagels (cinnamon raisin), flavored yogurt, sweet potatoes, lasagna, apples, black beans, clementine oranges, watermelon and chicken.

Hawaii 2011 - Day Seven and Eight....

2011-09-14T08:30:00.000-05:00

On Saturday, we decided to stay at the beach all day and take advantage of one last full day of lounging, sun and swimming.... by the end of the week, Eleanor was kickin' her sunglasses regularly. She totally adapted to island life - which is good, because Momma and Daddy plan for her to spend lots of her summers with toes in the sand... somewhere!
Walking on the beach with her Pa-Paw (notice her 6 month swimsuit that is still so big on her that we have to tie it up... lovely). Loving these memories....

Eleanor was ALL about playing in the sand... you never know how babies will respond to the "mess", but she couldn't get enough.... so naturally, bath time was REAL fun for Eleanor. Building sand castles... or hills, whatever...
Wish you were here, picture...
That evening, we ate at Mala Ocean Tavern... it is quite the dive, but still such a wonderful menu and exquisite view..... when we golfed with the locals they told us this place was a must, and they were right (still no Lahaina Grill, but one we will definitely repeat...) We didn't set up reservations, so we had about a 20 minute wait, and well, Eleanor was not having it. Apparently, neither was Momma.

At least we had the sunset.... Dinner, yet again, proved to be trying to Miss Eleanor.... this picture makes one think that we might have actually had success feeding her and enjoying the evening... false. Daddy and Momma switched back and forth again taking her out to see the water... grr. After dinner we went back to the villa, put Little miss to bed and Momma worked on packing before we got in another round of 42... yep, we are oh so boringly, but awesomely predictable.

***************************************************************

Sunday morning was the day we dreaded most: leaving. It is always so sad to say goodbye to Maui, it has become our favorite little spot and we are so blessed to have had the opportunity to go as often as we do... this trip was by far one of our favorite memories there, so we hated to see it end. So much fun with the grandparents, and a world of memories that we will forever cherish with Eleanor... here's to hoping for more memories in the years to come!

We checked out and headed to Kapalua so BJ could get himself and Pa-Paw and Grandpa polos from the club (again, proof he played the course I guess), we went up to take pictures at Honolua bay (but it was raining, so we scratched that) and then headed to another must-eat restaurant on the other side of the Island in Paia. Flatbread Company Pizza is SO SO SO good and wouldn't you know it, it was Eleanor's favorite meal of the entire trip (surprise, surprise). And unfortunately, this is the only picture I have from lunch. Odd.

After lunch, we walked around Paia, got gelato and headed to some surfing spots to watch the locals.... it was probably the ugliest day we had in Maui, just so humid and overcast, but we made the most of it.
Eleanor waving at her Daddy... I love this picture of my sweet girl. And the last picture of the girls on the trip...

We headed to the airport around 3pm, turned in the rental car, boarded the plane and were off by 5pm... Eleanor was a CHAMP on the way home. She ate a bottle at take off, played with us all for about an hour or so, then completely CONKED out and slept until we arrived in Dallas! We landed at 4:59am (glorious) and Mindy was so generous to pick us up and bring us home. Eleanor (and Momma and Daddy) went straight to bed and woke up refreshed and ready for life back on the mainland... Mahalo, Nanna and Pa-Paw for a great week on the beach!

Hawaii 2011 - Day five and six... (sort-of)

2011-09-13T09:30:00.000-05:00

So, Momma got lazy with her camera taking skills during the middle of the trip... do I regret it? Of course. Is it surprising? Not at all. Unfortunately, the only pictures I have from either day are from the evenings..... but basically, on Thursday and Friday we enjoyed a whole lot of sun / swimming / beach and morning walks.... Eleanor rotated swimsuits, so pretty much we can imagine what those pictures would have looked like if we just refer back to days 1-4 :).

For dinner on Thursday, we decided to keep it easy so we ate at one of the restaurants at the resort...

Now normally, I think these kind of restaurants are just so-so, leaving me with average hopes for my meal. But Pulehu was GREAT - it was Island Italian, believe it or not and I had a wonderful Butternut Squash Ravioli that was so so good. Top that off with bread, Maui onion butter and macadamia nut pesto and you can rest assured that I was a happy camper. And unhappy camper?...

To say that Eleanor made dinner time difficult would be an understatement for this trip... at home she is always pretty good at eating whatever we put in front of her, playing with whatever toys we bring and sitting for however long the meal takes. Well, not. on. vacation.

Of course she again only wanted her daddy, so BJ had another meal with Eleanor in his lap.... she was loving it, of course...

Then came out the tiramisu... and can you believe it? Eleanor was actually interested in eating now... surprise, surprise! I mean, is she our daughter or what? Will never turn down a sweetie.

I love this stuff!

Afterwards we tried to get a good picture of Eleanor with her Nanna and Pa-Paw... this is the best we got....

********************************************************

Friday night we went to our VERY favorite restaurant in Maui... hands down it cannot be beat - in actuality, I am pretty sure it is our favorite restaurant, period. Lahaina Grill is a MUST when going to Maui, and even though it is a bit more expensive, it is worth EVERY. PENNY. Did Eleanor think so? NO. Instead, she decided to fidget so much that Daddy had to go walk downtown Lahaina as soon as he finished eating while we all slowly savored every last bite. Yep, this picture pretty much sums up her attitude that night....

Don't feel TOO bad for BJ though.... he did clean his plate, and he is the world's fastest eater. AND when we found him he was enjoying gelato, again. Surprise. We headed back to the villa and Eleanor all of the sudden got the hugest rush of energy, so we let her play and wrestle until she wore herself out.

Eleanor gets the BIGGEST kick out of playing on big beds... her favorite is to climb all over the pillows and literally throw herself on them like she is wrestling them. She has the heartiest laugh every time she gets going and can play this game for a long time... hilarious.

We called it a night again and I am pretty sure we were ALL wiped, so followed really close behind Eleanor to bed... nothing like going to bed on a really full stomach. Lovely!

Hawaii 2011 - Day Four....

2011-09-12T08:46:00.000-05:00

On Wednesday, Nanna and Pa-Paw went to take an early morning helicopter tour of the island for their anniversary... so we decided to head down to grab some chairs to call ours for the day!

Eleanor waiting patiently for her sunscreen to soak in.... this was one of the worst parts for her every time... we put her in a suit, cover her in lotion then make her look at the water - I guess I would be frustrated too!

And Daddy and Eleanor went straight to the pool.... with her cool shades of course...

They stayed on while she swam - for the most part! She normally gives it about 5 minutes, max... but I think she finally understands they protect her eyes :). We swam and played until nap time then took a break to put Punkin Bottom down.... after lunch, we went straight back to our chairs with Nanna and Pa-Paw....

And Eleanor discovered Momma's favorite drink... which means the rest of the trip I never did get to enjoy a full one :)... Eleanor loves LAVA FLOWS (and so does this preggo momma = obviously it is virgin, so it is basically like a strawberry / banana / coconut milkshake - what is not to like?!)

She basically stole it from me...

After having her fill of sugar, we headed to the beach to play for a bit.... still having to encourage Eleanor to walk in the sand, she just was not getting it!

But she loved to sit and play with Daddy.... best buds on the beach together.

That is until the tide changed and the waves came up to wear they were sitting.... Eleanor jumped into Daddy's lap REALLY fast :).

And she was done.

For dinner we headed back to Lahaina and ate at Cheesburger in Paradise... followed of course by gelato that BJ gets every time we are down there... Eleanor went crazy for that too... goodness, she was living it up on vacation with her sugar intake, woops!

After dinner and dessert we went back to the villa and played some more 42... we can't get enough of that game, so BJ and I love when people enjoy playing it too! The girls one, again :).

Eleanor kissing Lucy

2011-09-11T21:44:00.001-05:00

Tonight Eleanor was bound and determined to give Lucy a kiss... she just wants her frienemy to become her friend, we think... or she knows how to start a fight.... either way, made for a funny little movie!

These girls are just too much... like it or lump it girls, you will be best friends.

28 Weeks

2011-09-10T22:14:00.000-05:00

BR #2, the time with you in my belly seems to just be FLYING by... to think we will meet you in just 11 short weeks is crazy! We had our 28 week appointment the other day and everything looks perfect.... we were able to see your precious, smushed face on the screen when the doctor conducted your final sonogram.... I think you look just like Eleanor. So I can't wait to find out if you are a boy or a girl!!! I also had to have the diabetes test, which means chugging basically straight sugar on an empty stomach and having blood tests done, lovely..... ALL is PERFECT and the doctor was very happy with all the results! The crazy thing is, you could already weigh about 3lbs (based on the sonogram), that is NUTS!!

I am starting to have Braxton Hicks again... and I am pretty sure this is where they started when I was carrying Eleanor, as well, so I am not that surprised. Every once in a while you will kick Momma so hard it sends shockwaves through my body... again, reminder that you are growing healthy and strong, so I cannot and will not complain! It is getting a little harder to keep up with your big sister, she is all over the place now that she can walk, and well, this Momma is tired :).

This week, we are praying Meekness over you.... I feel like this quality can often have a negative connotation, as if you were deficient in courage or confidence if you were meek. But BR #2, please know that you can hold great confidence all while radiating meekness in your precious life. Synonyms for meekness, as we are believing it for you, would be humility, modest, non-pretentious and unassuming..... we pray that in light of the talents, abilities, gifts and opportunities you have as you grow up that you will keep a humble spirit, that gently glides through the blessings and trials afforded to you. We pray that friends, family and even strangers are attracted to this quality in you.... that it would be recognizably different and refreshing when contrasted against the norm (norm being a culture that strives to make a name for themselves). You were created (and are still be fashioned) to do GREAT things here on this earth, to leave a legacy based on the way that you live... but our prayer for you would be that the desire for accolades along the way would not be what drives you... but rather your hope would be that all would see your great deeds and praise YOUR FATHER in Heaven, not you. Sweet BR #2.... we can't wait to meet you. We love you!

Matthew 5:5
Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth.

Matthew 5:16
In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven.

Psalm 149:4
For the LORD takes pleasure in his people;he adorns the humble with salvation.

Hawaii 2011 - Day Three...

2011-09-09T22:44:00.003-05:00

We had such an exciting day planned on Tuesday.... but again, we all woke up fairly early so decided that we should start off with a good walk down the board walk to the different resorts..... Eleanor put on her hat and shades and we were OFF :)..... Pa-Paw pushed the stroller the whole time, you would think he was used to it, I guess :)... watching her two days a week while I was working this past year surely gave him quite the practice!Of course that meant we had to take a quick stop in the sand, as well... we wanted to see how Eleanor responded to the beach this time!
Daddy loving on his little girl....And putting those toesies back in the sand, again! I LOVE this picture... I know that it is one we will cherish as Eleanor gets older, and bigger... our teeny little punkin is just too much, here.Wanting Momma's sunglasses (the usual)...
And our little drama queen... already adores big sunglasses (and shoes, just not on the beach)....
So. Cute.
After our walk and Eleanor's nap, we all headed to take BJ and I to Plantation Golf Course up in Kapalua.... it is about 3 miles past our resort and the home of the kickoff tournament for the PGA season.... to say the least, BJ was ecstatic to be playing this course!! This round of golf was his birthday present from me and Eleanor, and he was pumped, although nervous because he heard how hard it is!The view the entire time was BREATHTAKING!!!! The course was designed to go up and gown the cliffs, all the while looking over the ocean on every whole and playing around the natural forest they maintained in various spots.... unbelievable!We played in a four-some with another couple on their honeymoon from Italy (only the husband played) and a couple who moved to Hawaii 10 years ago to make Kapalua their home.... they play the course 4 times a week and we were SO grateful to have them alongside as they were a GREAT help to BJ on the different holes...... let's just go ahead and put it out there that this is HANDS-DOWN the hardest course BJ has ever (and may ever) played. Any guidance along the way he received was much appreciated... and they were great to let us know so much about the island, as well... not just the golf course. Golfing with them was a blast!BJ and I on the tee box for Hole #3.... obviously, preggo didn't play.BJ on some hole... who knows.... but look at that scenery!
So apparently, a lot of wealthy people own homes in the club... like I would doubt it. I forgot who these are, but I think one of them belongs to the owner or coach of the New York Yankees... another belongs to the owner of the Country Club (a Japanese billionaire businessman).
My baby swinging his club in the sun :)....
So apparently, the green that BJ is playing on is not only difficult to manage, but at the last PGA tournament not ONE of the PRO golfers reached the green within two strokes (from the tournament tee, not the pro tee).... well, BJ did. Good job, honey!
The 18th hole... what a GLORIOUS shot!
We had SO much fun on the course... truly a great memory that I am so glad to we had the opportunity to create! BJ's goal was to shoot a 100 and he shot a 103... not bad, AT ALL if you ask me.... if he could take back Hole #1, he would have been well under 100... but that is another story :).
While we were golfing, Nanna and Pa-Paw took Eleanor to the Maui Aquarium... seeing as Eleanor loves animals we figured this would be a blast for her... well, cue little miss' attitude and desire for Daddy this trip. She didn't really love it, but instead kind of whined and pouted all day for them... darn. As soon as she saw Daddy after golf, she would NOT let him out of her sight.

We were wiped from our round and since Eleanor didn't have the best afternoon, we decided to order pizza and stay in the villa that night. When Eleanor went down, we taught Nanna and Pa-Paw how to play 42... Donna and I were on the same team and beat the boys... WHOOP!

Hawaii 2011 - Day Two....

2011-09-09T21:30:00.003-05:00

So... we woke up bright and EARLY the next morning ready to face the day.... after eating a quick breakfast, we knew that Eleanor would love nothing more than to learn the resort had a pool.... and we HOPED she would love the ocean just as much! Nanna and Pa-Paw went and had their own breakfast and we headed to the pool! We may have been the only people down there that early....
And it was a little chilly.... the temperature never did get too warm, so mornings and evenings were quite brisk! Didn't bother Eleanor at all.... she LOVED being in the water!Can you tell?
After swimming for about 10 minutes, Daddy was ready to go to the ocean! So we headed that way to see what Eleanor would think....
Hey, water is water to this little girl... and minus the confused look she gave Daddy when she tasted salt, she LOVED it.
She was fascinated by the sand... didn't necessarily understand that she could walk in it quite yet, but you could tell she was contemplating what in the world was in between her toes :).And like I said, it was cold and baby girl's lips were turning purple, so we went ahead and wrapped her up in a towel to keep her warm on the walk back to the pool....But as soon as we got there, she wanted back in! And she swam HARD until her first nap.... which made her nap well :)... meaning Momma and Daddy got to nap too!
After her nap and lunch, we headed to the Pirate Pool.... the resort has a small kid area that Eleanor went CRAZY over.... she loved the Pirate Pool. It was no deeper than 1.5 feet deep and she was a champ wading through the water. She loved seeing all the other kids and even slid down the slide with Daddy....
And LOVED it.
Eleanor, how do you feel about the Pirate Pool????Nanna and Pa-Paw joined us and played with Eleanor a bit in the pool too....
Then Momma took a turn wading in the water.... if you can't tell, she wanted to be in there so much we had to rotate.... she can wear you out, quick!
Taking a break on the side of the pool with Momma....
BJ was ademate that we all headed back to the beach, so that is what we did.... heading down the boardwalk from the Pirate pool....
And Nanna and Pa-Paw taking little girl for a swim!Eleanor was still VERY much in a Daddy mood, so of course, she wanted him....Momma's two beach babes....
And again, the wind on the water made the air just a little too cold for Eleanor, so here she is all bundled after taking a dip... those lips kept turning blue!
We headed back to the Pirate Pool for a little more swimming, then it was time for Eleanor's afternoon nap.... again, we wiped her out!
After naps, we all cleaned up and headed to Kimo's on the water in downtown Lahaina for dinner.... we sat RIGHT on the water and despite Eleanor wanting NOTHING to do with food, out evening was wonderful!
We walked a little bit through the streets of Lahaina and then headed back to the resort to put Eleanor to bed..... after she went down we played a round of Spades (we lost) and then headed to bed! It was a fun, exhausting day in the sun and we had a BIG day planned tomorrow!!!!

Hawaii 2011 - Day One...

2011-09-09T21:07:00.002-05:00

For Christmas this past year, we received a fabulous vacation to Hawaii from Nanna and Pa-Paw Rector.... so this past August, we headed there with Eleanor ready to put baby girl's toes in the sand!!!! Eleanor's first flight took off around noon, which means she missed her morning nap... yikes! She actually did really well waiting for the plane waving to other passengers, walking the terminal and looking at planes through the window with Daddy and Pa-Paw...
But as you can see, Punkin Bottom was TIRED..."How much longer, Daddy???"So... we loaded the plane right at about 11:45am, took off by 12pm and were on our way, nonstop, to paradise! We had 3 middle seats, so Eleanor "sat" between us.... really what happened is that Eleanor wanting nothing to do with ANYONE or ANY SEAT except for with Daddy. He was quite the trooper for the 8 hour flight.... even though she did nap a little bit, it was only when he would hold her... and if she was awake, well, she only wanted to play with him! So how was the flight on this preggo Momma?? GREAT!
Little did we know that Eleanor wanting Daddy on the flight would serve as foreshadowing for the next week of our lives.... haha!
We landed in Maui about 3pm (8pm Dallas time) and Eleanor was a trooper! She took a little nap from the airport to our resort, but then did great as we tried to keep her up as late as possible! I wish I took some more pictures that night, but alas.... there are none!

We checked in to our villa, got everything settled and then walked the boardwalk to Duke's for dinner.... not the best dinner we had, but it was quick and close so it was perfect. We got home, put Eleanor to bed and were not far behind her.....

Around 1am, Eleanor started crying and screaming like crazy in the hotel crib..... she would only settle down when Daddy held her... so guess what happened the rest of the night! Eleanor slept in our bed RIGHT next to her Daddy.... it was so sweet, albeit a rougher night for him. I wish I could have taken pictures of them snuggling... but obviously didn't want to wake her up. She literally slept curled up next to him ALL night. What a way to start a relaxing vacation, eh?! All in all, she was great on the flight and adjusted pretty well for the time change, so baby girl, we are proud of you :).

27 Weeks

2011-09-05T22:02:00.000-05:00

POP goes the Momma.... literally, I feel huge. I mean, not that people didn't know I was pregnant for some time now, but there is absolutely NO denying it anymore. It is like all of the sudden everything is growing. You are definitely carrying much different than Eleanor did.... with her, I pretty much kept my size with the exception of my belly and a little swelling at the end. With YOU, BR #2, I am expanding everywhere... yikes. To know I still have 12 more weeks is a little intimidating, if you ask me!

This week we celebrated your Daddy's 33rd birthday - he is now in his mid-thirties... which honestly, is CRAZY to Momma. There are so many days where I feel like just a moment ago I was in college, high school even... often I still feel like I act like a teenager, but alas... your parents really are grownups. It was a pretty laid back week, and birthday for him, spent with family and his best friends - for Momma, that meant a lot of Eleanor time... I'll take it. Soon when you get here, there will be a major shift in her and I's world (especially because of the fact that I won't be able to pick up Eleanor for 6 weeks). It will be the best change ever, albeit a little sad and confusing for her, for sure. Good thing is she will not remember it and with you, we will all be better for it!

BR #2, believing that you will chose Christ at an early age, we pray that you mourn the sin that still creeps in... the fact of the matter is, you will not be perfect. Momma and Daddy are not perfect and will never pretend to be. There is no one you will meet on this earth that is perfect... and that is OKAY. You DON'T have to be perfect. Period. We will never expect that of you, but more importantly please know that is not what God expects of you. He KNOWS you aren't perfect, so His Son paid the penalty for our imperfections. We do, however, have the opportunity to chose to submit to the inner workings of his Holy Spirit to flee from the desire to sin... not that we always will, but oh that you would mourn when you fall. (Oh that Momma and Daddy mourn when we fall... praying that over us, too). Not because it is expected of us to be perfect, but because you desire to bring glory to God by your freedom from sin, through His Son. There are going to be struggles you will encounter, for sure... rely on the Spirit to redeem you from the sin that so easily entangles. Pursue righteousness, hate sin, find life.

Matthew 5:4 Blessed are those who mourn, for they shall be comforted.

2 Corinthians 7:10 As it is, I rejoice, not because you were grieved, but because you were grieved into repenting. For you felt a godly grief, so that you suffered no loss through us. For godly grief produces a repentance that leads to salvation without regret, whereas worldly grief produces death.

26 Weeks

2011-08-28T20:37:00.000-05:00

*SOOOOO.... ashamed to admit there is not picture this week. BR #2 - you are still JUST as important to Momma and Daddy... forgive our inability to get it together this week :).

BR #2, this week was a week of transitions.... good transitions, but nonetheless change still needs to be learned when your day to day looks different than it has. Momma has officially transitioned to staying at home.... I am not completely done with work yet (3 more weddings to go), but I do not have enough work to keep me busy at the office.... meaning, unless I am with a client in meetings or executing an event, I am home (working when Eleanor naps). This change has been a good transition for me, so that I don't just jump into to being a full time stay at home Momma when you arrive, but rather Eleanor and I will kind of have a system of sorts that we will be comfortable with by then. I am WELL aware that you will completely throw off that system, but as best prepared / rested / ready I can be, I plan to be. So this transition truly only serves as the beginning to the new road ahead.... and we are so excited!

I went to the doctor this week and we set your birthday!! Originally, we had planned on November 22nd, but now have pushed it back to the 25th. Momma is really excited about this.... honestly, because I didn't want to spend the holidays in the hospital. If things change and I do, please know that I will be super happy about it, but since I have a choice, we will enjoy Thanksgiving at home then check in first thing Friday morning to meet you by 10:00am. Surreal.

I spent the majority of my pregnancy with Eleanor praying over certain fruits of the Spirit to resonate in her life. I have revisited those prayers I wrote to her and of course am praying them over you... but I also want to pray something different, over my pregnancy with you, also over the both of you (and all of your future siblings too, prayerfully....). BR #2, we pray that you are Poor in spirit.... at first glance, hearing your parents pray this over you may seem quite harsh... merely because the world will tell you the definition of this would be someone who is an "Eeyore" if you will - poor, pitiful me who cannot ever catch a break.... this is NOT our prayer for you, at all. We pray that you will be Poor in spirit in that you recognize from an early age the depravity of man... your imperfection, your inability to offer anything of yourself to better your position, your innate disposal towards sin that unfortunately leaves you on a path towards destruction.... we pray that you are Poor in spirit so that you desire something to redeem, something to rescue, Someone who saves. We pray that you would find salvation in Jesus Christ, the ultimate lover of your soul who comes to seek and save those that are lost, those that are Poor in spirit. Once you recognize your position before Him, humble yourself at the foot of His cross and you immediately inherit all that God has to offer.... Eternal Life. Precious one, Momma and Daddy would find no greater joy than having you, and Eleanor, be our sisters (or brother!) in Christ... nothing we can do for you, decide for you or that you can ever do yourself.... it comes from a personal faith in the one, true God.... a prayer we strongly submit before our Lord that you believe with your whole heart for your whole life.

Matthew 5:3
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Isaiah 66:2 All these things my hand has made, and so all these things came to be, declares the LORD. But this is the one to whom I will look: he who is humble and contrite in spirit and trembles at my word.

25 Weeks

2011-08-21T20:49:00.001-05:00

I venture to say one of your first words could very well be ALOHA.... you know why? Because Momma and Daddy LOVE the beach.... and you have an amazing Nanna and PaPaw who took us on vacation there this past week and I know are looking forward to getting your toesies in the sand one day too :). What a treat... we needed it too... it has been such a HOT and busy summer, so it was SO nice to vacation with family and do nothing but a whole lot of relaxing, swimming, playing and eating.... we know you'll love it someday, too. Speaking of loving it, you were SO active while we were in Hawaii... maybe you already DO love it... or maybe I just love feeling you move and squirm and stretch in my tummy. Yep, that's it. You have officially become quite the mover and shaker, sometimes painfully, in my tummy.... I'll take it though, keep it up!

This week Daddy and I were just completely overwhelmed by the generosity of your grandparents.... not only did they invite us on this wonderful vacation, taking care of EVERY thing that we did, but they wanted to invest in our lives, too. I pray you have a generous spirit, BR #2.... (I really pray that you see this modeled at home).... that you would be giving of your self, your talents, your blessings in order to bless others..... whether it be listening to a friend, offering time to help someone who needs you, eager to share, not having too tight a grip on anything material in this world or in any other area, that generosity would be a quality that drips from your soul. There is nothing more attractive in a person than one who humbly gives, serves or shares without any need for recognition.... and we pray you have that Spirit deeply knitted inside of you. I guarantee that you will see it modeled from your Nanna, PaPaw, Grandpa Mike, DotDot and Grandma Pam.... pray you recognize the generosity of your Momma and Daddy (especially your Daddy - he is working HARD so Momma can stay home with you and Eleanor), pray that you see it in Eleanor as we continue to pray that over her.... but mostly, that you would recognize the overwhelming and unmatchable generosity of our Savior, Jesus Christ. Out of His great love for you, giving up His place in Heaven and His LIFE to have and hold you FOREVER. Embrace that generosity, sweet one... no one loves you like He does. Not even Momma and Daddy.... and we will spend our lives trying. BR #2, we love you.

2 Corinthians 9:10-12

"He who supplies seed to the sower and bread for food will supply and multiply your seed for sowing and increase the harvest of your righteousness. You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God."

1 Timothy 6:17-19

"As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy. They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share, thus storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life."

24 Weeks

2011-08-15T20:36:00.002-05:00

BR #2, what a FABULOUS week this was with you.... and I have to admit, my freaking ecstatic crazy excited over the top joy comes from news we received this week! You and Eleanor are going to have a baby COUSIN!!!!! Even writing this now brings tears to my eyes!!! Uncle Benny and Auntie Kristen are PREGNANT with grandbaby #3, due at the end of February, just a few months after you!!!!!!!

I know you will not understand the significance of this for a few years, but BR #2, Momma can hardly contain herself that you and Eleanor will have a cousin so close in age to you both.... growing up, Momma had (um, still has) a BIG group of cousins - a lot that were quite a bit older and a few that were right around my age.... and I'll tell you what, family is the greatest. Oh the memories I can just see you all making: the skits, the games, the messes, the slumber parties, the fights.... oh it will all be just so fun! I pray that you have a friendship with your cousin(s) in the same way that I do mine. I can honestly say that your Aunt Jana is one of my best friends... as close as a sister.... and now you and Eleanor have the opportunity to have a friend that close, in family! I love it!

Of course, my prayer life this week has not only revolved around you growing healthy and strong, but also Baby Gross.... that the Lord would continue to protect Auntie Kristen and I's tummies and keep you babies growing safe and strong.... our Creator is so specifically weaving you both together inside and the thought of the personal touch on both of our lives is just amazing. What a great God we serve. BR #2, you are so blessed.... I pray you desire friendships with your big sister and baby cousin.... what JOY that will bring you (and us!).

This is the creative way that Uncle Benny and Auntie Kristen let us know that Baby Gross is on the way.... they put it in Eleanor's birthday card! Hilarious!!

*The picture of me this week was taken in HAWAII!! More to come next week about our fabulous vacation... you were able to enjoy part of your 24th and 25th week on the beach :)!

Can you say... ALOOOOHHHHAAA???!!!!

2011-08-14T10:00:00.002-05:00

We will be working on it all week in MAUI!!!!

Can
you
say
EXCITED?

Because
we
are....

Enjoy
the
heat,
Dallas...

we
are
off
to
80
degree
highs!

Pineapple
everyday,
virgin
beverages
for
this
Momma...

Putting
baby
girl's
toes
in
the
sand
for
the
first
time....

MAHALO,
Pa-Paw
and
Nanna
for
taking
us
on
this
trip,
we
can't
wait!!

In all seriousness, if you need us in the next eight days.... you can find us here:

Eleanor's First Birthday Party!

2011-08-12T21:04:00.002-05:00

Seeing as Eleanor's birthday is right in the hottest part of the summer, we decided to throw a pool party for little girl's FIRST birthday!! My generous parents opened their home to our friends and family for an afternoon of swimming, hot dogs and good ole summer fun! It was the perfect day - because Eleanor's FAVORITE activity is to swim... as you will see from the pictures below! I know she won't remember the party, but it really was the best day of her life.... hopefully these pictures will show you just a brief glimpse of how FUN you are, precious girl!

The party started with these fabulous invitations from my dear friend, Marina. She is SO talented... she created my blog, she did Eleanor's birth announcement and now her birthday invitation.... THANK YOU, Marina!!We spent the night at my parent's house the night before the party so that we could spend the next morning getting things ready... Eleanor enjoyed "Happy Birthday" before every meal that day.... and obviously, she LOVED it.
Such a ham!! We had practiced and practiced the "Happy Birthday" song so that she wouldn't be freaked out when 50 people were singing it to her... obviously with the family, she thought the song was the greatest....
The party started after Eleanor's afternoon nap... she was greeted by Uncle Benny, and let's just say that Momma was grateful because my little girl NEVER snuggles as much as I would like, but her fear of her uncle (we are still trying to put our finger on this, but since day one Eleanor has been scared of her Uncle Benny!) meant she was all up in my business for a good 10 minutes... best birthday present to Momma, ever!Enjoying her WHOLE milk.... cya later, never, formula!
Eleanor in her party dress..... this obviously didn't last long because it was a pool party, but she was just precious in it!
Eleanor's cousin Bella made the trip from San Antonio (along with Jana and Betty Jo, of course) and it was SO fun to have them there!! These sweet girls will be best of friends, we just know it.The party was themed "Pinwheels and Popsicles"... lining my parent's driveway and around their backyard we put pinwheels staked in the ground... of course I forgot to take a picture. Awesome. Dot-Dot made the wreath on the front door and used the hospital sign we made for Eleanor before she was born (we filled in her name after she was here since we didn't know if she was a boy or girl!)I went picture crazy... literally hundreds of pictures of our sweet baby girl were all over my parent's house.... my favorite though was over the fireplace where we put her monthly owl pictures up to chart how much little girl grew!
The food....
Typical grill-out summer menu was in order... (notice the pictures behind the buffet of Eleanor!)
More food shots....
Eleanor's birthday banner.... Aunt Katie and I spent all day the week before making this banner.... so don't judge if you see it at all her parties :)We looked over after putting Eleanor down for a minute and had to laugh that she bee-lined it for the gifts... too funny. But, it was time to swim!! So we changed her into her little birthday swimsuit!Eleanor and Daddy... pre-pool...
...and Eleanor and Daddy in her element.... she had SO much fun!!
Best friends and their kiddos..... BJ and Weyland have been best buds since 5th grade.... Tausten is his oldest...And Emily (Weyland's wife and also friends with BJ since junior high!) with Harper, their second... Emily is pregnant with Baby #3 due just 4 weeks after me... we can't wait to meet precious baby girl, Chapel!I wish I took pictures of everyone.... probably my biggest regret from the party! But here is a quick glance at the pool with the first braves souls....And part of the crowd who never did enjoy splashing around in the water.... but, we were SO blessed that you all made the trip to Prosper and enjoyed the party with us!
Laura and Eleanor's little, big friend Spencer (we missed Christian!)....
The Simmons family.... Chris, Marina and big-boy, Owen!
In lieu of cake, we did cake pops... figured it was not only part of the theme, but the perfect bite-size piece of cake you need.... Eleanor's first cake is right in front...
And the real deal.... everyone singing "Happy Birthday".... let's just say Eleanor LOVED IT. She clapped, she laughed, she waved her hands... it was perfect! We even sang it twice because she was having so much fun with all of the attention.... shocked me because there were over 50 people singing!!! (**REGRET #2... my video camera did NOT work and I do not have it on video.... but I do have the second time we sang the song from a video taken from Aunt Kristen... phew!)
Looking at her cake wondering... is this really for me? What do I do?It obviously didn't take Eleanor long to figure that out.... she went in like this once, twice.... over 20 times.... she LOVED her cake. Didn't use her hands for a while, just kept going in face first, very serious, eating cake and icing like it was her job!
Y-U-M-M-Y!
It was so good, in fact, that she decided she wanted to share with Daddy... so sweet!The face of a cake - fiend...
We finally got her to use her hands.... she literally ate almost the entire top tier of her cake...Then, we went back to the pool for some more fun!... with Jana and Bella....
With Mindy, Lucy, Marina and Owen....
Lucy and Eleanor loved sitting on the fountain.... these two girls are just too much for me. I love the little pictures we have of them, and I love that it always seems like Eleanor is telling Lucy something mischievous... we are pretty sure she is going to be the ring-leader of their getting into trouble in no-time....
Best. Day. Ever.
And Bella jumped off of the diving board... this is a big deal because for the few days leading up to the party she kept saying she would NOT be doing this... good job, big girl!Momma and her princess.... my ONE year old! O.M.G.Daddy and Eleanor, post-pool....
So, we said goodbye to the majority of guests and then Eleanor was SO excited to open her presents.... she received WAY too many and we are overwhelmed by the amount of toys and goodies that she received.... she was really excited to open gifts, as were her helpers Bella, Tausten, Harper and Spencer.... too funny!
Where do I start???
Eleanor pushing her new stroller for her dolly... she was SO excited to get this from Pa-Paw and Nanna...
Aunt Katie gave Eleanor her first sock monkey.... Eleanor loves it... notice in her other hand are her new Converse.... she went nuts over these and held them the rest of the time she opened presents after she opened them.... little girl LOVES shoes... she got 5 pair, and I am pretty sure she is stoked.
Her favorite present thus far? Definitely her xylophones from Uncle Benny / Aunt Kristen and Lucy Kate.... she has one at home and one stayed at Grandpa and Dot-Dots.... she plays them all the time... such a musician!
Our big girl opening some more gifts....
See... wasn't kidding about the Converse...
And this picture was actually taken the day before, but I just had to post it of her opening her first birthday present from Junior.... look at that SMILE!!Baby girl, we hope you had the HAPPIEST Birthday... we were so blessed to celebrate YOU and can't wait for the years of parties to come! Celebrating you doesn't just happen on July 31, baby girl, but we celebrate YOU everyday! Thank you to everyone who came to our party... and for your overwhelming generosity to Eleanor! We love you all and WISH we had done a better job taking pictures to show you all!!

23 Weeks

2011-08-10T21:10:00.000-05:00

So, we are a few days away from vacation, and BR #2... I. AM. READY. Momma is tired!! It was a great week and I am feeling good... but it just seemed so busy. I had my last wedding of the summer (only 3 left - wow!)... its funny how weddings both get my adrenaline pumping and wear me OUT at the same time... just don't move as fast as I used to, sweet one!

You are definitely starting to remind me of your big sister when she was in the womb.... constantly squirming, kicking and as of recently stretching to wear I can feel your foot, little bottom or head pushing really hard against my tummy.... I forgot how surreal and amazing that is. I mean, BR #2, you are growing INSIDE of me... the very fibers of your being are slowly knitting together to form your little body.... your organs, your bones and muscles and your precious face... I just can't wait to see you and to hold you. It overwhelms me to know that the Creator of the universe is taking 40 weeks to create YOU inside of me... an unworthy vessel, for sure. Sure, it will be SO exciting to see if you are a little boy or little girl.... and of course we can't wait to see what you will look like... Eleanor? Momma? Daddy? Hybrid???.... but what we want you to know, CONFIDENTLY, is that we care so much more about the SOUL the is being created within you.... your countenance, your spirit, your personality... your heart. Sweet one, the world will tell you that the outside matters (I definitely believe that your body is a temple and should be taken care of) but BR #2, it is the INSIDE that contains all of your worth. We are confident and pray expectantly that just as the Lord is taking His time knitting you together now, He will also put His Spirit inside of you from an early age to fill your precious SOUL with Himself... that you would be come a little lady or gentleman that is different, radically opposed, to the lusts of this world..... that your worth would come from the inner-workings of the Holy Spirit's touch on your life. We LOVE you, BR #2... and can't wait to have you part of our family.

We have a WALKER!!!

2011-08-04T20:41:00.000-05:00

Today was SUCH an exciting day.... we have reached a new milestone, turned a new page... and all of the sudden... we have a toddler!! We knew she was close, and it is official, we have a WALKER!

Good job, punkin bottom - WE LOVE YOU!!

22 Weeks

2011-08-02T15:58:00.001-05:00

BR #2, it is H-O-T in Dallas.... like, not just "oh, it's August so it should be hot" but OH MY WORD I AM MELTING HOT! We have had over 30 days so far that the temperature has broken 100 degrees... and unfortunately, most days are closer to 110 than 100... yikes! Lucky you, it is only 98 degrees where you are :).... this week has me on an absolute ROLLER-COASTER of emotions... you see, your big sister celebrated her FIRST birthday!! This week last summer, Daddy and I experienced parenthood for the first time.... its like we blinked and she is 12 months old... emotional for us (especially Momma) for SO many reasons. Knowing you are inside (kicking and kicking!!) but soon you will be here, and again it will feel like I will blink and you will be 12 months old... you aren't even here yet and I am already mourning how quickly my sweet newborn will turn to a toddler.... Wow, these pregnancy hormones have me all over the place :).

Sweet one, days will fly by with you.... years (I am sure) will pass in what feels like an instant... and unfortunately you are most likely going to feel a pressure to grow up fast. Hind-sight is 20 / 20, they say.... and if I only knew then what I know now... and while adults told me this too, I wish I would have listened.... HOLD ON to your youth. It is FUN, it is FREE, it is FLEETING.... we pray that you and Eleanor (and your other siblings, Lord-willing) will enjoy being kids. Plain and simple... enjoy being kids. Don't be too "cool", don't desire to grow up too fast... that your dreams and make-believe and desire to PLAY stick around for a long time.... we pray that the Lord will protect your heart, your eyes, your mind from things that will try an deter your youth to a desire to grow up too fast.... we will do our best to protect you, encourage you and play with you.... but we pray that you would have a child-like spirit while you can... and a child-like FAITH forever... simply believing Jesus, because He IS. We love you, BR #2.

Eleanor :: Twelve Months Old

2011-08-01T16:09:00.000-05:00

Little girl, we made it... you officially 12 MONTHS OLD... ONE YEAR OLD! Hands down, this has been the BEST year of our lives, albeit the fastest! Punkin bottom, it is hard and almost impossible to remember life before your presence graced our family. You are the absolute greatest JOY to your Momma and Daddy! And this past month, you had the time of your life! You make every day so fun as we know you are learning so much, growing so much and getting to experience new things.... we can definitely tell our little baby girl is beginning the transition to toddler-hood.... yikes!, that happened fast!So, one thing that you are COMPLETELY over is sitting still (hence the picture above!).... you definitely prefer to be up on your feet (holding onto furniture) or up on your knees (crawling at the speed of lightening!)... you are like a worm in hot ashes.... you just do NOT want to be still... whether it is pushing your shopping carts, finding dust bunnies or lent on the floor (your favorite) or playing chase with Momma and Daddy... you. are. everywhere.
You are also such a curious little bug! You absolutely love to open cabinets (we finally have safety locks on all dangerous ones - phew!), reach for remotes and phones, eat whatever Momma or Daddy is eating, drink from our cups instead of your own and sometimes let out little fits when we "gate" you into the playroom... you would much rather be exploring!
You are not walking yet... but you are SO CLOSE - we just know it! You are really confident behind your shopping carts and little toy walkers.... and even when holding both of our hands... you are just a little too shy to want to get up and go, though. But we know you are ready... so we expect this ANY DAY!
You officially popped your FIRST tooth the day before your birthday!!!! Now, it only just came through the surface, so we can barely see it, but you have a TOOTH - woot woot! It's about time, little one!
Speaking of little one, this picture above makes you look a lot larger than you actually are... because sweet one, you are still about 17 lbs (official weight coming next week at the dr), wearing 6-12 month clothes (your 12 month clothes are HUGE, but they are mainly dresses and well, we still put you in them), your swimsuits are 6-9 months, you are beginning the transition to size 3 diapers (they are too big, but you potty too much to hold in size 2s)... you are still in your infant car seat and who knows when you will transition to a bigger one.... I bet it won't be too long, because you are tall.... but who knows.
Your schedule has tweaked a little bit, but girlfriend, in my opinion it has only bettered (if that is even possible!) You now sleep until about 8:15 - 8:30am (we pretty much have to wake you up because I am sure you would sleep until 10am if we would let you!), eat your bottle (60z) and oatmeal, play until about 10:30am then you are down for your first nap, up around 12:15pm (eat your bottle (60z) and eat either a fruit or veggie (sometimes both), nap around 2:30pm, up at 4:30pm and eat a bottle (50z) and play until dinner around 6:45pm which consists of veggies, fruit, some kind of protein and your last bottle (4-50z).... not going to lie... getting you to eat your formula is a BEATING (like we would do anything to get you to drink 40z each time, ANYTHING)... BUT, this past week we transitioned you to whole milk... let's just say you think it is ice cream... you can't. get. enough!!!! HOORAY!!!So, this summer is officially the hottest summer on record since Momma has been alive, so lets just admit that while you are a WATER BABY (you love the pool more than any other activity and have absolutely no fear!), we have not been able to be outside as much as we would have liked. We definitely swim when we can, but really our activities are limited to indoor because Momma is a worry-wart with her little girl. You did spend all day in the pool on the 4th of July.... a holiday I know you are going to just LOVE once you stay awake long enough to enjoy some fireworks :). You have become so vocal... while your words are not perfect, you are trying to say so many things and you are talking all the time. Your favorite words are still Momma and Daddadda, mum-mum (you are always wanting to eat these snacks), no-no-no (woops! we were really trying not to use the word, "no", but obviously that didn't work out to well), pup, Dod-Dod (for Dot-Dot), Papaw, ba-bye (while waving) and uh-oh (because you purposefully drop things all the time hoping we will pick them up, especially when we are changing your diaper). You LOVE phones.... and you have finally figured out that we are talking to someone on the other end, so now EVERYTHING is a phone to you. It can be your blackberry, our IPhone, a stuffed animal or your mum-mum.... you hold it up to your ear and start talking so much babble to someone.... its hilarious to me. PaPaw also taught you how to navigate his IPhone, so of course that is your toy of choice.... which I don't let you play with mine, so it is only a treat when your grandparents come over.... you know how to turn the ipod on and you immediately start swaying and dancing with whatever music comes on. Your hair is getting SO long!!! Still not so much in the back, but the top is crazy long, so we have transitioned from the bands with the bows attached (which we all know you loved) to little clips and bows that go right into your hair to hold it back! The good news is... we typically get at least 10-15 minutes before you recognize something is in your hair!Speaking of your hair, you LOVE to brush your own hair... I am pretty sure if you could say it, you would tell me that "you do it"... because basically, you do. After bath time, the best way to ensure you stay happy and let us lotion you is if we pass along the brush or comb to you... and you really do go through your hair... you also LOVE Momma's brush... its a little heavy for you, but you try to brush your hair with it daily.
You went on your first road-trip this month!! We packed up the Tahoe with the Rives family and headed to Colorado.... not the smoothest car traveling you have ever had, but we made it! We spent a week in the mountains and just had a blast! You definitely struggled with altitude sickness a little bit, but for the most part you did great.... you saw your first mountains, touched your first snow, went to your first western party and played with your pal Lucy... so much fun!
Here is a picture of you and Lucy in the Aspen Grove at Trail West, in Colorado. We figured out over the last few weeks that the best way to get you to smile in pictures is to sing "Patty-Cake"... works like a charm. From now on, know that if you are smiling in a picture, someone in the background is either singing that, or "Happy Birthday" to you....This might very well be my favorite picture of you girls for years to come... it is priceless to me. And it reminds me of just how much you love being with other babies or little kids... you get REALLY excited (like clench your fists and scream with glee excited) whenever you see a little friend that you recognize or even some you don't... makes going through Costco and Target always a little bit interesting. You also love to wave and "oh-oh-oh" (like a monkey) when you see other kids.... and you LOVE babies. This is a great thing, seeing as Momma is pregnant, but we are also working on channeling that love to being gentle and observing, rather than screaming and trying to pat them over and over.... yikes!
You are a Daddy's girl.... in every way. Not only are you his spitting-image, but you definitely prefer Daddadda to Momma. You love it when we wake up and he is home, you definitely prefer him to tuck you in at night and you do absolutely anything to get his attention... it is quite darling, and I hope you stay a Daddy's girl forever. He has a lot of great things to teach you, sweet one, and he is a great measure for you when boys come along your way someday.... don't settle for anything less than the love your Daddy has for Jesus, for your Momma and for you.
It's not rare that I look over after turning my back for a moment to find you being mischievous... you know it, and you love it. Whether it is turning your little kitchen on its side so you can climb all over it, opening cabinets that you know are off limits, hearing "no, I don't think so or hands off" to something then smiling and doing it anyway.... you definitely keep us on our toes. You think being sneaky is really funny... and it is SO hard not to laugh when you are doing something wrong because you are funny... but we are really trying to instill obedience into you, so slowly we are introducing discipline.... mainly we just take away whatever toy you are playing with if you are doing something you shouldn't, but we have spanked your little hand a few times.... in fact, you often take your own hand and give it a little pat afterwards (totally mocking us!)... how can we not laugh?!?!? Oh girl, you are a mess - I love it!
You have the greatest laugh and it is always the funniest things that get you rolling.... and once you start, we never want you to stop. You love being tickled, love being chased and caught and you love weird noises like "raspberries" to the sky.... you also love when you make us laugh unintentionally, which in turn means repeating the same thing over and over while laughing hysterically. The other day, you accidentally flicked water on Aunt Katie from her straw and her reaction made you laugh so hard that you continued to flick water on her and belly laugh for the next 30 minutes, no lie.
You are started to enjoy SNUGGLING again.... and it is melting Momma and Daddy's hearts... it definitely is not everyday (and I am sure it has something to do with teething), but every once in a while you just reach for us and when we pick you up you will put your head on our chest, arms around our shoulders and just let us hold you like we always want to.... oh my word, it can make this Momma cry (and Daddy too)... what we wouldn't give for you to continue to do this for years to come....Well, we did it! We survived the fastest year known to man-kind.... and little girl, we are BETTER for it because we had 365 of the most amazing days filled with Y-O-U! If this year was any indication of how fast you will grow up, Momma just might not be able to cope.... you have blossomed from my little 7lb11oz baby to a beautiful little girl, inside and out, way too fast. We LOVE you, We LOVE you, We LOVE you and praise the Lord for the opportunity to be your parents..... sweet one, as Chapter ONE comes to a close I have a feeling the BEST IS YET TO COME! Happy Birthday, Baby Girl!!!

Reflecting...

2011-07-31T21:06:00.000-05:00

Really, I don't know where to start... how can I sum up the emotions that I feel to adequately express what my heart can't contain. It seems like only yesterday I was a little girl myself... dreaming of the day when I would be a mommy... meaning I played house way far into my adolescence... I mean, doesn't every little girl dream of being a wife and mommy someday? I would venture to say the majority do.... and I can hardly process the truth that not only am I a wife, but I am someone's mommy... and that little baby girl is about to hit a huge benchmark.... my baby girl is turning to a toddler before my very eyes and I am not sure that I have even processed that I have a baby girl. Will it be like this every year? Will I always wonder how in the world are we already here? I venture to guess it will.....

Eleanor, my precious little girl... oh the way that you have changed my life. I can only hope one day that you will truly understand how much I love you... I mean, I don't love ANYONE on this earth in the same way that I love you. It is instinctive, it is natural, it is impossible to ignore.... actually, it can hurt how much I love you because I truly would give my life for you.... and I will tell you, I NEVER understood the love I was capable of until you entered this world. Thank you for showing me how big my heart really can be.... and should be.... for others. I love you BIGGER and GREATER than I can define and there is absolutely NOTHING you will ever do that will change that. Nothing.

Happy 1st Birthday, Sweet One.

21 Weeks

2011-07-27T15:45:00.000-05:00

Most of this week was spent enjoy a little down time in Colorado!!! Now, that is my idea of a perfect summer.... hopefully, you will get the opportunity to enjoy Buena Vista, little one... (hint hint!). Although traveling with your big sister and Lucy, which can mean not much opportunity for rest, we really did have the opportunity to just RELAX, REST, and enjoy some PEACE in some of God's beautiful creation that we just don't get to see everyday. It gets SO busy in our every day lives, there are so many weeks where I don't know where the days go because there is always so much to be doing... so being somewhere that we could truly just enjoy one another, enjoy the quiet and take a break from the hum-drum of daily duties was just an absolute treat.

BR #2, unfortunately, that is just the nature of the world we live in... it's competitive, it's fast and unfortunately tries to completely drown out our ability to just be STILL, to REST, to find PEACE in the simplicity. We pray that you truly can cleave to the truth that we LOVE you in spite of what you do, how you perform and what you will become.... we love you because you are YOU. A part of us, created in the image of God.... and nothing will ever change that. In a world where you are, without a doubt, always going to feel like you aren't doing enough, aren't the fastest or best or prettiest... know that you are LOVED and absolutely perfect the way that the Lord is creating you... find REST in that. Find REST that not only do you not have to perform for Momma and Daddy, but that God views you the same way... He simply loves His children because of what He has done, not EVER because of what we do.... our hearts GREATEST DESIRE is for you to be His, chosen, beloved and forgiven.... that you would find REST in His salvation. We love you, BR #2.

20 Weeks

2011-07-20T15:26:00.000-05:00

Well BR #2, this week has been nothing shy of BUSY.... so glad that I have finally started to feel completely better (no more nausea or cold!) because we have been going 90mph to nothing! The most exciting thing that happened this week is that your Aunt Caroline got married!!! Caroline has been one of Momma's very best friends since I was 13 years old... I literally do not have a memory from junior high to the present where she is not part of it... we were bests all through junior high, high school, college and even still today... a rare find, today, if you ask me. We have been through life (Eleanor's birth) and death, and EVERYTHING in-between, together. So needless to say, her wedding week (20 weeks with you inside) was a very special week for me.

Immediately after the wedding, we packed up with Aunt Mindy, Uncle Josh and Lucy headed towards Buena Vista, Colorado (Hence the picture!).... it was SO nice to get out of Dallas during the massive heat wave we are having this summer, but more importantly, SO fun to spend time with our best friends on the road and at their cabin. Again, Momma and Daddy are so blessed to have friends like Mindy and Josh... truly they will be more like an Aunt / Uncle or second parents to you and Eleanor than our friends.... and we are so blessed by that.

Of course spending time with just 2 of my best friends makes me reflect and FERVENTLY pray for the friendships you will make in this world. First and foremost, we pray that you find the true friend that sticks closer than a brother (or big sister!!), Jesus. That you will hold fast to his salvation and a relationship with Him from an early age and find great security in that. Secondly, that you and Eleanor (and other siblings that will prayerfully follow) will be the BEST of friends. Our strongest desire for our family is that we would not only love each other, but that we would truly ENJOY each other... that you and Eleanor would not only respect the other, but that you would be one another's confidant, soul mate, play mate and FRIEND. Lastly, oh that you would be blessed the way that Momma and Daddy are with the best of friends in this world... not just that we have a great time with (because we always do!) but that truly know our hearts, love us, encourage us, pray for us and are a large part of our sanctification process here on this earth. That you would find friends that love Jesus, love you and will be a TRUE friend through the good, the bad, the ugly, in life and in death....

BR #2, we love you... and we can't wait for the day when you consider Momma and Daddy your friend too.... we know it may take 3, 15, 20 or 25 years... but we pray you desire our friendship, too. We love you!

19 Weeks

2011-07-12T20:06:00.003-05:00

Well, it is official..... YOU ARE A KICKER!! I L.O.V.E. every single bit of it!!! I don't know why I have been so anxious to feel them (probably because my memories of pregnancy last time was the 3rd trimester when Eleanor danced in my tummy all day long), but it just feels SO good to have those little butterflies at different times throughout the day! For the most part, it seems like you are most active between 8-10pm.... I am okay with that, but we need to start training you on moving that time up a little bit... we don't want you to have your days and nights confused, now would we?!?!

Speaking of days and nights, really it has been on my heart to pray for your sleeping.... not going to lie, Eleanor was just a dream baby (no pun intended) but came out of the womb on the perfect schedule and has never looked back. We know that how easy it has been with her played a large role in our excitement to find out we were pregnant again.... and while we don't deserve it, and in NO way will be disappointed in you if you aren't, I do pray that the Lord would bless you in this way. I watch and hear from so many friends who getting babies on schedules has been anything but easy, or some with colic (which Momma had as a baby, so I could be due for a payback)... I just pray that the Lord protects your sleeping / eating / awake times from a very early age. That you would be peaceful and restful, because you feel safe in the arms of Momma and Daddy in our home. Petty prayer to some, but truly a prayer from us..... for now, kick all day and night long, just keep growing healthy and strong... we love you!

PS.... horrible cravings have ensued. Specifically, I ate Chick-fil-a FOUR times in the last five days. Absolutely shameful. And if I am not careful, I may be the size of a dump-truck by the time you arrive. YIKES.

18 weeks

2011-07-05T19:55:00.000-05:00

Really the only thing absolutely wonderful about this week was that we had another doctor appointment and heard that precious heartbeat... same as Eleanors's, 150bpm! Apparently, most all babies around 18 weeks heartbeat is at the same rate, so no use in trying to play the guessing game on whether you are a little girl or little boy. Oh, but I just can't wait.... happily I will, but the excitement we already feel about hearing those precious three words is just almost too much to handle (no fear, we will not crack)! Still have not felt those kicks, and course that made me panic because I had with Eleanor by this time, but the doctor assured me that not only is that okay but it is still normal. Especially with the cold I am battling, you could be kicking away, but my full concentration is on this nasty cough.... soon, hopefully very soon!

I am still trying to get over this nasty little cold, which has just been a beat-down... but it is starting to curb so once it is completely gone I can only imagine how great I will feel.... no more cold, NO MORE MORNING SICKNESS! Talk about the dream trimester starting to finally take shape :)!

We also celebrated 4th of July - well, kind of because I had a wedding on the 3rd and was WIPED on the 4th, but what a great reminder that BR #2, you are so blessed to be born into a land of FREEDOM. Where people on this earth have sacrificed their lives so that you and I can truly experience freedom in this country... but not only that, of course that freedom PALES in comparison to the FREEDOM we truly hope you accept in Christ Jesus at a young age. We pray over you daily that, just as we do for Eleanor, that you will fall in love with the SAVING GRACE of Jesus and embrace the FREEDOM that comes in a relationship with Him. There would be no greater blessing for Momma and Daddy to know... that our children are saved by Jesus Christ.... you are His, little one.

Eleanor :: Eleven Months Old

2011-07-01T09:57:00.006-05:00

Little crumb, it is hard to believe you are eleven months old.... my big girl!! Broken record again, but how in the world does time fly by so quickly? I literally feel like I was recapping your tenth month yesterday... but then again, you have grown so much that looking back to when you were about 3-4 months old seems like forever ago... you have changed and grown SO much - I just love being part of your days! Good thing next month is your last month picture in the chair, you are OVER IT. I mean, you couldn't even crack a smile for me (that is, until I started to let you crawl, climb, take off your bow, eat the sign and daddy came in... grrr). You are still a crawling machine... you are fast and furious and it seems like you always are going 100 miles per hour.... you are pulling up on EVERYTHING, opening every cabinet (or trying to) that you can, cruising between the coffee tables, chairs and sofas on your feet as long as your hands are firmly in place and you have taken a FEW steps on your own... literally a total of 3, all by accident, but we were completely pumped. If we hold out one of our hands, you will take it and walk to wherever we are, but if you know we are trying to get you to walk you automatically squat down to crawl... but soon, we are sure you are going to be a running little maniac.
Unfortunately, we have found that "I don't think so...." or "no, ma'am" doesn't really work for you... you definitely have a mind of your own and are quite strong-willed (wonder where you got that from?)... sometimes, you are deliberately defiant and it is just crazy to us that you are SO small and just learning what things are / do and yet, you already know when you are disobeying (and sometimes get a kick out of it). You listen to daddy a lot better than momma, so unfortunately, you have had your first forms of discipline this month... yikes! You definitely don't get it, and kind of laugh, but we are starting to teach you now so that it doesn't come as a surprise later when you get in trouble for doing something wrong!
Your routine is still just the best... again, like clock-work!! You are up between 7:30-8am every morning (with the occasional sleep in until 8:30!), eat 6 oz and eat oatmeal, nap from 10am-12pm, eat 6 oz and eat veggies/rice cereal blend, fruit and sometimes another snack, nap from 2-4pm, eat 6 oz and snack on little munchies, PLAY hard until about 7pm when you have another 6 oz, eat fruit/veggies/rice cereal and then we get ready for bed about 7:30pm.
Some of your very favorite things to eat are cheerios, PUFFS (you go crazy for these, still), cottage cheese (your favorite big food), all vegetables, all fruit (except watermelon and lately you don't like blueberries), cheese, yogurt.... and of course, anything that momma and daddy eat. You are such a mooch. Especially when it comes to our drinks - you will whine like crazy until we give you a sip if we have a straw... luckily, we mostly have water, but when momma wasn't looking the other day you did steal a swig of her coke. Lovely. This has been the HOTTEST summer that either Momma or Daddy can remember, so this means we have not been able to do as much outside with you as we would like... but to keep yourself busy, you LOVE to read (Doggies and But Not the Hippopotamus are your favorites), you play in your mini-kitchen for hours (literally), you still love morning / evening walks, exploring different rooms of our house, banging on pots / pans / drums... more than anything, you LOVE LOVE LOVE to swim. You have absolutely no fear in the water - going under doesn't scare you, either.... you will kick your feet the whole time, splash your arms or relax in your float.. you LOVE it. So of course, we take a lot more baths now, too. You are little miss chatterbox.... and apparently, fluent in japanese because we have NO clue what you are saying, but you babble ALL. DAY. LONG. You will say phrases like you are in conversation and repeat them over and over, sometimes sing them, sometimes scream them and every once in a while you throw in a word we know... like Momma, Dadda, DotDot, Pawpaw, Pup, or Baba (for milk). Otherwise, a whole lot of gibberish, but it is really cute... once you learn the english language, I have a feeling you will be telling STORIES!
You hair is still kicking up some curl, but for the most part, we find that it really only stays when it is wet. By the time it is dry, it sort of waves to straight.... it is getting SO long on the top, but you are still bald as all get out on the sides and in the back... it is a reverse mullet. You STILL do not have any teeth, but you have started rolling your tongue over your bottom gums and sticking it out constantly... I think you feel something happening, so you are letting your tongue over it. But who knows, you may not get any teeth for a few more months, oh well. This tongue thing, however, is your new favorite thing... you love sticking out your tongue at us.
We weigh you at home every once in a while (when you will sit still) and you are still weighing at 16lbs.... you are still in size 2 diapers, but you have graduated clothes sizes!! You are now wearing 6-9 months, and SOMETIMES 12 months (mainly dresses and pajamas). 9 month pjs are definitely getting too small in length, but your 9 month swimsuits just swallow you.... you tall, skinny girl!
Over the last few months, really noticed this month, you have seemed to get over "stranger-danger"... you definitely are still a Momma and Daddy's girl, choosing us if we are in the room, but you will go to all of your grandparents, Aunt Katie and Aunt Kristen, friends and even the nursery without even blinking an eye... sometimes you will jump out of my arms to get there. Especially if we are somewhere with other little kids... you absolutely LOVE to play with friends... older and younger, you are so social! You just want to love on (sometimes kiss, yikes!) and play with anyone that will entertain your advances...
We kept Kaci and Chloe this month for Mindy and Josh.... let's just say you LOVED it. Every time you woke up in the morning or from a nap, you immediately started looking for the puppies (making your monkey - hoo, hoo noise). They kind of got over you quickly, so you were often frustrated that they just didn't want to play with you!We are still pretty sure that you are either going to be a dancer of somehow involved with music... literally, it could be a rap, country, classical or pop song and you will sway, clap and move along with the music... when standing, you have recently started to bounce or stomp (almost like your kicking from when you were younger!) to the beat.... you love music. And luckily, so far you have great taste!

When you get excited about ANYTHING (like, seeing Momma or Daddy for the first time in a day, going swimming, seeing a friend or puppy...) you close your fists, put your arms bent by your side and scream "DI-DI-DI-DI-DI" at the top of your lungs all while squishing up your face.... it is a mini-freak out, and it is AWE-SOME. Maybe the funniest thing you do.... you get super intensely excited and apparently cannot control it... it is hilarious!!!
One little thing that I have been meaning to record for the last six months or so, but we REALLY appreciate what an easy, happy baby you are... Eleanor, it is unreal. I can count on one hands how many times I feel like you have really had a crying fit and we are so blessed that to date you have not ever been sick.... these are really big things to new parents, so we definitely count them as blessings. I mean, I just figured it would be harder to put a baby to sleep, per se, but you can be mid-conversation, game or activity with 10 people, I pick you up, change your diaper, say a a bedtime prayer with you, lay you down and before I leave the room you are asleep.... no tears, no whining... just content to be in bed. If you aren't asleep, you sit there with your paci quietly until you fall into slumber... so so sweet.
Your little bottom is just too cute...and apparently while swimming your suit often shows it off... whoops, plumber girl!
Momma is still working part-time, and since Dot Dot had knee surgery to fix her other knee (she has 2 new knees now!), your PawPaw comes to play with you every Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday if I have a wedding.... BUT, Momma just let work know that as we approach BR #2 arriving, I am transitioning to a stay-at-home mom... so, 5 weddings (November 1) to go until it's me and you, kid (and kid)! We are trusting Jesus BIG TIME on this one, but Daddy and I both feel like this is where the Lord wants us to move.... and Momma wants nothing more than to spend my days with YOU!
You are still fascinated with remotes, phones, computers... basically anything we really wish you would not touch.... you just can't get enough of them. There have been multiple times when mid-show, you change the channel on me.... rude, haha!
You have VERY distinctive facial expressions... you definitely have the fakest smile I have ever seen, a "who, me??" face, a mischevious "I am going to do it even though you told me not to" face, a monkey face when you get excited about something or someone (in which you also say "hoo, hoo, hoo", you make a face where you look just like your daddy (biting your side lip), your "I am judging you, momma" face, and a full-face when you are done with your bottle or food. You will block your mouth with your hands and then push the bottle as fast as you can away from you... all while clinching your mouth tightly shut.... Eleanor, we get it.
Not the thing I am most proud of, in fact a BAD habit we are trying to break, is that you have found your nose. Not the outside, but the inside... and you love to stick your fingers up it. Especially in public. Awesome. For Momma's close friends, they will know what a travesty this is for me... I am working through it, but obviously trying to break the habit. quick.
We still catch you sitting up in your crib, asleep, often. You will also stand up in the middle of the night, let out a little noise and sit back down to fall asleep.... so daddy and I have come to the conclusion that we MAY have a future sleepwalker on our hands. Regardless, the monitor usually provides really great entertainment at some point almost every night.
Basically, you our are busy little bee... and you just couldn't be any sweeter. We love you so so so much and it is just crazy that a month from right now you will be over a year old.... writing that just brought tears to my eyes. I am planning your first birthday party now.... oh my word, I can't handle the speed in which our life is passing us by... the days are too short with you. We cherish the little things about you, the big things, the changing things, the things you have yet to figure out... oh Eleanor, you truly are the light of our days. You will always be daddy's little "munch'n punch" and Momma's "little poop"... even when you are 16. Sorry.

17 weeks

2011-06-30T20:06:00.003-05:00

So, not my favorite week thus far on round 2.... not BR #2's fault, but I caught a vicious little cold that just knocked me off of my feet. I found myself finally starting to feel like I was coming out of the morning sickness fog of the past 3 months only to walk straight into what felt like the black lung. I mean, the whole sha-bang.... lost my voice, scratchy throat, coughed and coughed and coughed until my body convulsed, and longed for my bed the moment I stepped out of it everyday. Lovely!

This little bug kind of made me a nervous ninny with BR #2... you always are, sweet one, but you were like CONSTANTLY on my mind. I felt like the ferocious nature of my coughing must have felt like massive turbulence to you - so sorry about that. What it did provide, however, was just a faithful reminder to lift you up in prayer... just like we did with Eleanor, we a fervently praying that you would continue to develop HEALTHY, strong and absolutely perfect according to your Creator. Ultimately, you belong to Him; we are just your caretakers here on earth... in a week of feeling very helpless to support you, this brought Momma great comfort.... you are the Lords, not ours. He is the giver, the sustainer of life... of your life. I celebrate that fact today, sweet one... because Momma and Daddy LOVE you, and this pales in comparison to His great love - such confidence we have because of Him. Precious BR #2, grow strong, be comfy and know that from the moment you were conceived until the day that pig's fly.... you are LOVED.

16 Weeks

2011-06-20T15:08:00.003-05:00

I was looking at where I was at 16 weeks when I was pregnant with Eleanor to find that:
a. I was really excited to think I had felt butterflies in my tummy
b. I had already purchased a crib for her nursery

Here the second time around, I have yet to have butterflies (but let's be honest, I was probably way-over assuming any movements with Eleanor) and well, we are not going to do a second nursery until Baby Rector #2 arrives... my how things change :).

One of BJ and I's very favorite things (um, now that we have done it once) would be NOT finding out the gender of the baby until he/she makes their arrival in the delivery room... it is truly as close to magical as it gets (see here). Because of this and because Eleanor will still very much be a baby when her little sister/brother arrives, we have decided to wait on the nursery until we know it BR #2 is a boy or a girl. We are believers in the bassinet (hence the title) and so our newest addition will start in our room anyways.... giving us time to decide whether or not the two will share a room. If we have another girl, no question they will share seeing as we only have a 3-bedroom house... if we have a little boy, Eleanor will probably move to a big girl room (with a crib)... we just aren't going to rush that process before we meet BR #2.

We are already praying fervently that Eleanor and BR #2 will be the closest of friends... best friends, at that. Brother or Sister, it is our biggest hope that our children will LOVE, respect and ENJOY one another.... having them as close as they will be at only 15 months apart, we pray that this only enables their friendship even more from the very beginning.

BR #2.... I can't wait to feel those little butterflies... I can't wait to feel you kick, move and tumble around in my tummy. I am ecstatic to meet your little face for the first time and for you to join our little family. We love you, sweet one.

15 Weeks

2011-06-17T20:46:00.003-05:00

So here we are again.... on the road to meeting Baby Rector #2, and starting our little bump series so that we can remember what my body goes through (such a labor of love if you ask me, pun intended) as well as begin preparing ourselves, Eleanor and our little growing addition to the blessing that their life will add to our home.

Many people, friends, family and strangers alike, have not been shy to ask the question: "Um, was this a SURPRISE?!"... what, you mean it is not normal to get pregnant with your second when your first is only 7 months old? My honest answer - Yes. This little nugget was a surprise... but like, surprise you won the lottery, or surprise your mortgage has been paid off or surprise candy is the best source for vitamins and minerals. No, BJ and I were not trying... but we were ready to start... adding Eleanor to our life has been nothing shy of amazing. The thought of another one makes my heart skip a beat out of the JOY I can't help but feel!

Here is the real, transparent deal... when BJ and I got married, we were not sure how easy it would be to have children... it took my mom 10 years before she was able to have my brother, then myself and my sister. Because of bad decisions I made earlier in my life, I put my fertility chances in jeopardy all to be a size smaller... stupid. Well, these two vices combined made BJ and I agree that after Eleanor was born (our FIRST surprise) we would wait until the 6 month clear (C-section rules from my doctor) but that we would just see what happened... well, apparently it happened again :).

I feel so very humbled, so VERY humbled, that the Lord has had favor on our childbearing thus far... my heart literally breaks knowing that there are women out there who ache to the core to experience motherhood. The few that I know often come to my mind when I consider God's gift to BJ and I. We are undeserving for the ease this process has been for us.... humbled.

So at 15 weeks this time around... I am still battling morning sickness (which of course lasts all day and unfortunately has not only lasted longer than did with Eleanor, but is much worse... blah.), I have been showing since about 8 weeks (yep, even had a STRANGER - a man, of course - congratulate me... yikes), I am EX.HAUS.TED... like, Eleanor takes a nap and so does Mommy kind of tired and bed by 9:00pm tired. Heartburn seems to rear its vicious little head every once in a while, and instead of cravings I am basically having an aversion to everything (this is FINALLY getting a bit better). The only thing I do crave.... Freebirds. Lovely.

Little one, I know one thing already.... YOU. ARE. WORTH. IT. We love you, we love you, we love you and we can't WAIT for you to get here - it is an honor to carry you in this growing tummy!

Yikes.

2011-06-05T10:44:00.002-05:00

Good thing Eleanor doesn't know what shaking her head means... she just does it for everything.
But it sure does make for a good laugh.

*Please excuse my baby-talk, lisp thing. It bothers me too.

Just when you think....

2011-06-03T14:33:00.005-05:00

that no one reads your blog, the funnest thing happens! Journey over to my new cyber-friend's bloggy blog to read a great story about just how small the blogger world is! While you are there, check out her adorable blog and beautiful family!

Brooke, I hope to meet you in person someday! And to anyone else out there reading this little diary to my family (I don't scrapbook, so this is for our kids!) we love having you visit... if we don't know each other, shoutout so that I can read your blog too (yep, I do that too). Hopefully you enjoy our crazy antics, obsessive nature and attempt at witty posts so that Eleanor (and all of our children) think we are cool :).

Today, I feel like Julie & Julia (dramatic much?).... so, who wants to offer me a contract for publishing??!?.... hey, this future stay at home mom would love to write for mula... haha!

Eleanor :: Ten Months Old

2011-05-31T21:07:00.003-05:00

Our precious firstborn, it's that time of the month again... yep, a time to stop and reflect that you are officially the fastest growing human we know. How in the world are you 10 months old today? Well, although we could spend another 10 months contemplating how fast time flies with you... we really just pause here to again say, these past months have been the greatest of our lives, thus far. Eleanor, you continue to bring us unfathomable amounts of JOY - the outside world will never, EVER be able to understand why we always emphasize this so much... but you, my dear girl, are the most JOYOUS blessing of our lives, to date. And now, as we await your little sibling, we rejoice knowing that God has entrusted us with another one of his precious creations and our hearts may burst knowing that we will have another bundle of JOY in our home.

If I were to describe this month.... a blink. Literally, because I feel like all I did was blink and it has passed us by. Also, it seems as if Momma or Daddy blink, you have officially either crawled into the other room, climbed up on the sofa or have changed the channel with the remote.... we officially have a MOBILE, CURIOUS, NOSEY and EXPLORER of a girl in you.
We went to the doctor last week and found that you weigh 16.05 ounces (8%), you are 28.5 inches tall (75%) and your head is 43.4 cm (30%).... so, string bean, the story is the same... you are a tall, skinny little crumb. Your schedule is yet again, still freaking awesome. Up between 7:45-8am to eat your bottle and some oatmeal or fruit, nap from 9:15-11:15am, bottle and fruit/veggies at 11:30am, nap from 1:45-3:30pm, bottle at 3:45pm, play play play until dinner at 6:45pm which consists of a bottle and fruit/veggies.... for snacks, you LOVE cheerios, puffs, blueberries, cut up grapes and peaches, bananas... and well, anything Momma or Daddy is trying to eat.
You are no longer a "scoocher" but you are a big time crawler... like, road runner speed crawler and your VERY favorite thing is to be chased... when you know you are going somewhere you aren't supposed to, you look back to make sure we are watching and then take off... all the while giggling and screaming as we declare, "I'm going to get you!!" Yikes.
You definitely are TRYING when it comes to sign language, but so far, it seems at though the only thing you have caught onto is "All Done"... so you sign this for everything. Speaking of adopting something for everything.... your VERY favorite thing to do is shake your head NO. Awesome. So, whether we are asking you if you are excited to be a big sister, if you went potty in your diaper or if you want a pony for Christmas, you very adamantly shake your head, NO.
You are trying so hard to communicate with us... and Ba-Ba or screaming (out of excitement) is still your communication of choice. You have learned a few things and now say... Dadadadada, Mommommomma, Uh (for Uh-Oh) and Gah... (which is Momma's personal favorite - so exasperated!)... you also love to clap your hands, wave hi and bye-bye and you are SO musical - every time you hear music you sway, clap, or kick to the rhythm... you could be drinking from your bottle, riding in your carseat or playing on the floor... a song comes on that you like, you dance. (LOVE IT.)Maybe a little bit disturbing, but you love to climb up on the entertainment center or end tables and suck on the handles... kind of like you are nursing them. It grosses me out if I am being honest, and obviously I try to stop this as soon as I see it.... haha!
You are kind of over your Jumperoo or really anything that keeps you captive... darn. I think you have finally figured out that adults put you in this for your entertainment, of course, but also to catch a breather. And you just will. not. have. it.
We took you swimming for the first time and to say you love the water would not give your feelings to the pool justice... you are OBSESSED. You could have stayed in the pool (or actually, the hot tub that we warmed to bath temp) ALL day if we would have let you. Your swimsuit, however, is a different story... yep, size 6-12 months and lets just say it is quite scandalous it is so big on you.
You are still wearing size 3-9 month clothes... 9 months really only for dresses or jumpers... 3-6 month for everything else. You are still in size 2 diapers, but can wear a 3 if needed... it just looks like you have junk in your trunk as soon as we put it on :).
Still no teeth... but again, we are okay with it! You have learned to chew and gum anything that would require teeth, so you have adjusted well, my dear. Hands or something is still constantly in your mouth, but no pearly whites yet!You are also a Cruiser! You can pull up on the sofa, chairs and ottoman and cruise around the room as long as you are holding on to something.... so, even though you look like you are 4-6 months old, it is very possible that you may walk before you have even one tooth... love it! So ambitious, like your Momma.
You have found the dryer and you LOVE when we do laundry.... in fact, most days I shut myself in the laundry room in order to get anything done because you want to get all up in the dryer and clothes... Speaking of clothes.. you definitely have an obsession with shoes. Either laying around or on someone's feet, you are not afraid to go up an untie any shoes, play with sandals and luckily Momma and Daddy have stopped you before you licked the bottom of soles... I am pretty sure that you would if we let you. Maybe we can punish you with this someday instead of washing your mouth out with soap?? Um, no.
You still LOVE going on walks and spent most of your 10th month enjoying outside... whether is was a walk with your DotDot or PawPaw (Momma had to work A LOT this month so you got extra grandparent time) or swinging in the backyard, you always have a ball...Your hair is still kicking up some major curl on the top, but it is no longer the "Gerber" baby curl... instead, it is starting to look a little messy / crazy curly. But don't be fooled... only on the top. You still have almost no hair on the sides or back, and what you do have is board straight. You really hate it when I make you wear bows... and you don't let them last long (as noted from every other picture).You have started to give real kisses.... like, you initiate them. In fact, today you actually came up to Momma, rested your head on my shoulder, then turned and kissed me on my cheek, only to return your head to my shoulder... MELT. MY. HEART. That was the best snuggle time I have ever had with you, because YOU initiated it... I could eat it up.
You have a kitchen the size of you. It is tiny and you will spend hours in the refrigerator, eating ice cubes, boiling water or eating the frying pan... or as of late, climbing and sitting on the fridge. We have decided to make the den the playroom... well really, maybe you decided this.. you and your toys have officially invaded and we block you in here whenever we are in the house.... we have baby-proofed that room as best as possible, so we now turn it over to you and your siblings. We are currently working to make our living room, "Our" room.... just an FYI, this is a donation, not an entitlement.
Grandpa Mike gave you a Blackberry because you always try to steal our iPhones... you just spend your time eating it and wishing it was an iPhone.
You are still looking like a GIRL - clone of your daddy.... your daddy makes the prettiest girl I have ever seen... but, you are definitely his spitting image.
Eleanor, again... more than anything I hope you can confidently proclaim that you had a Momma and Daddy that recognized that you first belong to Christ and that He gave you to us as our gift here on earth... and you are a true GIFT. We cherish our days with you and PRAY for many, many more.... in fact, for an eternity with you in the presence of our Savior. Eleanor, we pray you always know that we love you unconditionally... not because of what you do, how you perform, how you look or the decisions that you make... we just love YOU: your countenance, your character, your personality, YOU. Never, ever, ever doubt it... prayerfully, we will NEVER give you a reason to do so. Our hearts desire is that you grow up knowing that:
1. Jesus loves you, deeply
2. Momma and Daddy love you, constantly
3. You are going to be a big sister to a sibling(s) who will look up to you and we hope you will grow to be the best of friends.
You have made us so very glad.

Psalm 68:3 "But the righteous shall be glad; they shall exult before God; they shall be jubilant with joy!"