Room Updates

I have never posted a "home tour" on this blog, mostly just bits and pieces of the house. Someday I will get around to that. However, there are a couple of rooms that I would like to show our progress on and that is the nursery and the office.

I am so, so happy with the way Eleanor's room turned out and I hope she will enjoy it too. I will have to use words to explain the transformation because we didn't take a picture of this particular room when we first moved in. All the trim in our house was wood, so the chair rail was wood with a bluish-gray paint on the top and a navy blue on the bottom. Very depressing and dark. We had company coming to stay just a couple of months after we moved in so we needed to brighten this room up ASAP. Cue in me thinking ahead and choosing the gender neutral bright, cheery color of yellow. We painted the trim a shade of white and painted the walls yellow. Instant happy.

Fast forward three years later and we are getting ready for a baby. The yellow had become just a little too bright and I thought it needed a little balance. We painted the bottom half of the wall under the chair rail gray because after I had painted the office gray (more to come on this) I loved gray.

Over the course of my pregnancy, the look of the room developed and evolved. We mostly chose second hand, borrowed or handmade items. I feel this made the room very personal and I enjoyed the project while trying not to obsess and count the minutes before we met the baby girl. We also chose to stay fairly neutral on the colors instead of choosing the traditional "girly" pink so that we can re-use items if I ever decide to pop out a boy. Or, wait, I guess the dad chooses gender...? Anyway.

Here she is in all her glory (she and her being the room):

The frame collage has a Corinthians bible verse, scrapbook paper, a picture of Ben and I (separately of course) as little kids, and two maternity pictures. I love how it is coming along. There are a couple more additions I have in the works.

Moving into the room next door, we have our office. I am embarrassed to say that I reported on beginning to update, rearrange, paint and decorate this room last year in February. I wouldn't say we have made tremendous progress, but I definitely enjoy the room a lot more. We painted the room Valspar's Notre Dame and when it was finished I absolutely loved it. We painted the trim different that the rest of the house because we realized white pops more than the other color we had chosen in the rest of the house. It looks so clean and nice up against the gray.

The decor on the walls is aiming for a hodge podge but I think if we keep it organized enough, it will look good on the gray backdrop. Right now all we have are Hub's Spurs flags and our college diplomas. We have a picture hanger and Hub's grandpa's flag to hang up. You can see that sitting on the corner of the desk.

As far as my "craft corner" that I had discussed organizing, it kind of just got shoved placed on the top shelf of the closet in a bin for now. I haven't been crafting too much lately but it is easy access in case I need it. We got some shelves for the closet which helped a lot.

I am embarrassed proud to say that most of that is Christmas decor. It may look messy, but it is way better than it was, it is nice to have shelves that house multiple tubs and it is pretty organized in real life.

So there we have it, a lot of progress over the last year in the rooms that were basically "catch alls" that housed a lot of junk we never used and had icky carpet. Oh, that's right! We got new carpet in both rooms. We were pretty sure the carpet in those rooms had been there for about 20 years. The age of the house. It was so nice to get new carpet in those rooms. 

Very happy with our results in both of these rooms.

What has taken you almost a year to update? What room updates do you have going on lately? Do you fall in love with a paint color and want to paint everything that color?

...Annnd I Finished a Looming Project

I love pennant banners. I don't know why, I just think they add such a cute, fun touch to a room or a party. Ever since I started looking at nursery inspiration, I knew I would want one in Eleanor's room.

*Some inspiration*

Source: hisugarplum.blogspot.com via Allie on Pinterest

Source: dogpile.com via Lucy on Pinterest

Source: hogwash3.blogspot.com via Nicole on Pinterest

I made a pennant banner this summer for my friend's shower. I loved the way it turned out and vowed I would make one for my baby's room too. Well, a couple weeks went by. A month. Two. Finally I picked out some paper for my banner. Then a couple of weeks later I cut out the pennants. Then this past week I actually assembled the banner. 

To get my pennants to stay on the rick rack, I used these teeny, tiny multi-colored brads. For some reason when I think of brads, I think of those bright gold things that teachers used in elementary school. {Anybody else?} So I got these really cute ones and, let me tell you, there were a hundred other choices!

The assembly process.

Annd, the finished product. {I will do pictures of the whole nursery soon!}

There will be a personalized painting on this wall as well.

I hope everyone has a fun time shopping today. We may venture out just to have an outing but for the most part, our Christmas shopping will be done from the comfort of our living room. As well as putting up our Christmas tree. Happy Black Friday!

Fall Maternity Pics

My husband's talents never cease to amaze me. *Sigh*
We took advantage of a frosty, sunny fall morning.
Here is what we came up with.

37 & 38 Weeks

We turned full term last week! Yay! It is really crazy to be this far along. This whole pregnancy I have thought she would arrive late, but now that we are so close to the due date, I can't get it out of my head that in reality she could come at anytime.

These past couple weeks have been really fun. We had a shower a couple of weeks ago, so we had goodies to wash, put away, and put together from that. We have been picking up odds and ends to make ourselves feel "ready," and we even packed the little girl's bag to take with us when the time comes. We are still both a little indifferent on packing our bags because it seems pretty straight forward and may even be a good activity for me when I am in early labor. We will see. Now that I have all this free time on my hands, I wouldn't be surprised if the pile for my bag started to grow.

BabyCenter tells us that she could be around 6 1/3 pounds and measures around 19 inches. Last week at our appointment, the midwife estimated about five pounds. We have an appointment tomorrow so we will again get to see what they think.

I have been getting more frequent Braxton Hicks--none painful. Overall I feel good bodywise, nothing too sore or achy. I get tired pretty quick and my heartburn is still in full force even though I think she is a little bit lower.

Eating is a little better now that I am home more and can stay on top of not getting too hungry. I can usually figure out something that sounds good. Frozen spinach always sounds good! The midwife isn't worried about my eating though or the fact that I still get sick sometimes because I am definitely gaining a healthy amount of weight.

It is so crazy how strongly I can feel her hiccups now and I love when she stretches and I can feel her on both sides of my stomach. As of last week they still think she is head down.

We finished our last birth class last night. We finished a little early since we were the only couple and each class went pretty quickly. It was nice to have the one on one time with the instructor and be able to ask whatever, whenever we wanted.

I am a little sad not to be cooking Thanksgiving dinner this year as I have the past two years, however, I'm pretty sure my 9 1/2 month pregnant body would be a little tired. It will be nice to just relax that day and enjoy Ben's 4 day weekend.

And a bare belly pic for ya!

My First Time at a "Mommy" Group

A few months ago a customer and I were talking about breastfeeding and she informed me of a group called La Leche League. Maybe some of you have heard of it but for those who haven't it is a support group for breastfeeding moms. I had sort of forgotten about it because the meetings were during my work hours. Well, the other day my friend who had her baby in September asked if I wanted to go with her to this week's meeting. Of course I said yes.

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We didn't really know what to expect. My friend told me that her vision was a bunch of women sitting around feeding their babies--which actually turned out to be pretty accurate, however, there was some really great discussion and all of the women were really nice. Everyone was really open and honest about answers and it never felt like anyone was being judged. The topic for the week was "Ideas for the Holidays" because for a few of the moms in the room it would be the first set of holidays with their babies so it was time to brainstorm how to handle certain situations--sticking to feeding and nap schedules, too much passing around of the baby, travelling with a baby, etc.

I found it really helpful as an expecting mom because even though I haven't dealt with any issues, breastfeeding or otherwise, it was nice to hear answers to some of the questions for anything I have to look forward to. My friend brought up the point that people say breastfeeding is "hard" but we may only think that because we may get sore or this or that, but there are so many other factors that can come into play so it is really nice to have a support system or else it can be really easy to give up.

This is kind of a random post, I guess, but I had a really good experience and wanted to share in case anyone out there wants to look up their La Leche League {<--link for the international website}.

"First Day of the Rest of my Life..."

Those are the words Hub used on Friday, which was my first day off work after my last day. I always associated those words with a wedding, not necessarily "maternity leave" or an indefinite work hiatus. We have decided that I will be home for as long as it makes sense. If it starts to not make sense {financially} we can re-evaluate our options whether that be me finding a part time job, going back to a couple shifts a week at my old job, or Hub looking for a new job. Only time will tell.

Tomorrow will technically be my first day that I won't regularly go to work. The past couple weeks I have only been working three days a week. However, we decided it had come to the point in my pregnancy where I was just exhausted after work, it took me a couple days off to recover from those days at work and by that time it was time to start another week again. Standing for 7-8 hours was taking a toll on my body. I had really wanted to work until about a week before my due date but I have to listen to my body and we figure it is time to really focus on taking care of the baby and I. So, for the next few weeks that is what I am doing. I will actually have energy to get some chores done around the house, finish a couple more projects in the nursery, continue to wash baby clothes, put a few meals in the freezer, relax, take naps, go on walks, and read.

I have worked since I was about fifteen or sixteen so this hiatus before the baby comes is a little weird to me. I know once she comes, I will be a busy bee and not really think about not going to a "job" everyday but will be focusing on my new job at home. However, since she isn't here quite yet, it is a little weird to think about "just" being home everyday. I am so lucky to have such a loving and supportive husband who only wants the best for our family--whether it be regarding health, finances, stability and a parent home with our children. He makes it very clear that he will always do whatever he can to make our visions come true. I love him for that.

So, today I am feeling a little strange because I usually feel rushed on Mondays to grocery shop, do all the laundry, clean a bit, maybe go see a friend, get dinner made and even throw in a baked good here or there. However, today, I know that I have all the time in the world the rest of the week. It is nice to be able to do things at a slower pace and sit down when I need to. I am so excited to have energy this afternoon to go on a walk. The dog needs it more than as much as I do!

Monday Mumblings

I love a rainy fall day that I get to stay home all day in my pajamas. I can do chores at my own pace, relax, watch a TV show here or there. It's really nice.
Someone else posted about this this morning but I have to chime in. Desperate Housewives is just losing me. I want to watch because it is the final season but more often than not I wander off to do something else and realize I have missed 15 minutes of the show! Would Tom and Lynette just figure things out already?!
I am definitely feeling more at peace with being ready for the baby than I was last week. All of a sudden I get overwhelmed by things but then realize that we are ready. We just need the baby.
I am coming to terms with the fact that this will be my last week of work.
I am getting a little over anxious to decorate for Christmas. I know, I know. It's still early. I think I can hold out for two more weeks!
For some reason I have been loving frozen, chopped spinach. I usually eat one package at a time but I could probably eat two.
I am so lucky to have such loving, generous and wonderful friends and family.
I need to get some new house plants to put in a planter Ben made.
I don't feel like I really have any TV shows that I am so in love with these days, but for some reason I have having a hard time with pulling the plug on the cable.
I think that our dog senses the addition to the family and she is needing some extra attention lately.
It was really cold and clear the past couple of days and I loved it.
We put our fleece sheets on our bed a few weeks ago and I LOVE them.
I watched quite a bit of football this weekend {for me}, like actually really watched it, and I enjoyed it!
There is a lot of tag removing and washing that comes with having a baby.

What are your randoms for this Monday?

35 Weeks

I thought I would do a survey since I haven't in a long time!

How far along? 35 weeks 2 days 
Size of little miss? Babycenter says that she could be over 18 inches by now. I had my appointment with the midwife last night and she estimated the weight to be around 4 1/2 or 5 pounds. Babycenter says to pick up a honeydew melon to compare the weight.
Maternity Clothes? Pants definitely need to be maternity or stretch pants. I am wearing regular dresses and some regular shirts. 
Weight Gain? 34 pounds. The midwives are happy with this weight gain.
Stretch Marks? None yet. I have been putting on the Palmer's stretch mark lotion daily.
Gender? Precious little girl! 
Movement? She moves a lot but the movement has begun to feel differently because she is running out of room I think. It is more big movements than the little jabs I used to feel. Fine by me; it's wonderful to know she is growing in there! 
Sleep? Not so great lately. I have been sleeping sitting up and when I go to turn over, I wake up. I wake up because of heartburn. I toss and turn to get comfortable again. I have taken naps during the day the past couple of days.
Food Cravings? None lately.
What I Miss? Feeling "normal." Can't wait to be able to eat like a normal person again instead of nothing ever sounding good to eat.
Symptoms? Braxton Hicks, tired, nausea, achy back, heart burn
Best Moment of the Week? Visiting our friends' sweet new baby girls, one is almost 6 weeks old and one was 6 days old when we met her, and realizing that it won't be too long until our girl is in our arms! Also, my girlfriends are putting on a baby shower for me this weekend that I am so excited for!

Letter to my Daughter

Dear Miss Eleanor Grace,

It is becoming more and more real everyday how close you are to arriving; to us finally being able to hold you in our arms. Each big movement I feel these days is a reminder of your growth and you actually being a little human in my tummy.

There are so many things I cannot wait to teach you once you arrive. But first, I can't wait to nurture you, cuddle you, kiss your cheeks and spend time getting to know you. It is a funny thing knowing you being inside of me but I cannot even imagine how it will be to know you in my arms.

I honestly have no idea what to expect for your arrival but I do know that I love you so much already. I grow emotional just thinking about the day we get to meet you. Your dad is practically giddy every time we talk about the day you get here. Growing a human is hard work but I can only imagine how rewarding it is going to be.

Each day that passes I grow more and more absent minded because all I can think about is getting to meet you. We only have a few more weeks to go and my hope is that you stay in as long as you need to.

My hope for you is that you are happy. I want to provide you with a loving mom and dad, a warm place to lay your head, and happiness. You will always be able to count on your mom and dad; we love you so much already. I know the first days may not be the easiest but I think as long as we count on each other we will do just fine.

I also would like you to know that you will be arriving during my favorite time of year. Right before Christmas. Our house will be decorated to welcome you home and we will get to be cozy in our house as a new little family. I hope you love the holiday season just as much as I do.

I want to say hurry, but as I already mentioned, I don't want you to hurry and want you to make your appearance when you are good and ready. We cannot wait to meet you, sweet Eleanor, and will welcome you with open arms.

Mom and Dad love you.

XoXo,
Your Momma

Recent Reading

I finally finished "The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo" trilogy. I think I can say that the last book was my favorite.

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I got all three books for Christmas last year and am just now finishing up. It's not because I didn't like them because I really did. They are all very intense books and definitely a different type of writing than I had ever experienced before. However, I really enjoyed that. It felt like I was really branching out. I would warn though, if you haven't already read these, they are a little graphic in some parts and there are some disturbing images. I am looking forward to seeing the movie that comes out in December. I really like Daniel Craig as an actor and think he will do a great job playing Mikael Blomkvist.

Next up, I needed a lighter read. Well this book definitely delivered in that department.

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In my opinion, it is a little too light. I read it maybe a day and a half and was less than thrilled. Maybe it was because I had just come off a heavier read but it just all seemed so shallow and young to me. Don't get me wrong, I love a good chick flick and I'm sure this movie will be good for that. I just didn't love the book all that much. I was thinking about getting the second book, Something Blue, but thought better of it and feel like I don't need to read it just because it is what comes next.

Now, I have moved onto something that is becoming more relevant in my life with each passing day.

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A friend let me borrow this book that they received in their birth class. Our birth class is a little different than the one they took so I thought it would be good to read this book along with taking our class. {That we started last night.} I really like it so far and just finished the birthing chapter and onto reading about possible medical interventions. Since we are planning natural childbirth, obviously our hope is to have no medical intervention, however, we understand that things to come up and want to be prepared for as much as we can and many possible outcomes. I think this book does a really great job at outlining all aspects whether you are planning a hospital or out of hospital birth. So far I would highly recommend it if you didn't receive it or something like it with your birth class.

Last night at our class, our instructor recommended a book that educated on immunizations. This is a pretty hot topic right now and it is very overwhelming. She said this book is really good at just explaining what each vaccination is and then we can make our own informed decision rather than be influenced by the mainstream, internet or a pediatrician.

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What books have you been reading lately? What are your thoughts on any of these books? For you moms out there, any thoughts on immunizations {I know it can be a touchy subject so no pressure to answer and I respect everyone's opinion on the matter.}?

33 Weeks

33 weeks brought with it our appointment with our midwife. So great to hear her heartbeat again as well as hearing that all my vitals are great, my weight gain is looking good and that it appears she is making her way toward the head down position. She also gave us some handouts regarding when to actually call the midwife if we are in labor, a list of supplies to bring to the birth center and a list of pediatricians. Of course I have read tidbits on this information in different places but having it actually come from the midwife made our impending milestone seem that much more real.

Week 33 also continues with the heartburn. I slept sitting up the whole night last night. I was tempted to come out to our recliner chair but it makes me sad to think of not sleeping in my own bed!

I am happy to report that I still don't have any stretch marks. I really hope I didn't just jinx myself with that statement.

I had my first shower with family and family friends this weekend. It was so much fun and nice to be surrounded by loving people who are all excited to welcome this sweet girl. As I was sorting through our gifts this morning I think the whole ordeal sort of hit me. We are really close to having a baby. Sorting through clothes and blankets and deciding it's time to start the washing process made it all seem very real.

The only thing I can really say I am missing these days is life without heartburn. It just feels constant and gives me a constant unsettled feeling. If asked before I was pregnant how I thought my eating habits would be when I got pregnant--I would have answered with a resounding, "I can't wait to eat anything and everything all the time!" {I mean, that's a bit of an exaggeration but I thought I would have no actual problem with eating.} However, this pregnancy has brought with it an inability to come up with food that sounds good and actually feel satisfied when I eat it. Major bummer. I love to eat. Which I talk about here, here, and here.

BabyCenter tells us this week that she is just over four pounds and around 17 inches long. She is continuing to lose her alien look and look more like a newborn. Also, her skeleton is hardening.
Isn't my husband so lucky that this is how beautiful I look on a Saturday night?! Yikes!

Diaper cake by my mom

My cute mom. Thanks for the wonderful shower, Mom!

Handmade blanket, so adorable.

What Crosses my Mind These Days

Holy crap, I am having a baby soon.
I can't wait to meet my baby.
I have a million things to do.
Man, I'm tired and don't feel like doing anything.
How in the world is my labor and delivery going to go?
Will my baby be healthy?
What do I even DO with a baby?
Do I know how to be a mom?
How does anyone ever know how to be a mom?
I can't wait to see Ben hold the baby.
I sure am counting down the days until I'm done with work.
I need to wash my blinds.
I need to wash my curtains.
I need to wash baby clothes.
I need to make some meals.
How much am I actually going to be awake at night when the baby comes?
Will breast feeding come easy to me?
How will the dog take to the baby?
I haven't even held my child but the thought of leaving her {with someone else} already terrifies me.
Will my arms strengthen quickly so that I can bounce my baby to her heart's content?
I just cannot wait to see Ben be a dad.

These are my daily thoughts. Seriously. Sometimes all of this makes me feel like a crazy person. But then I think, of course not. All expecting mothers think these things. Right? Right?!

Our Trip to the Patch

Nothing like a fall day--crisp, foggy, smelling like burning woodstoves--to trek to the pumpkin patch. So that's what Ben and I did yesterday. He was very gracious in going with me and helping me pick out gourds, pumpkins and cornstalks. It did make us pretty excited to take our baby there one day.

A Christmas tree with pumpkin ornaments?

Hmmm, is this the one?

Sunflowers

Gourds

Found one!

Pumpkin for the baby!

Thanks for carrying my cornstalks!

Tiny apples

We had a fun time and got really good prices on everything.  It was a really cool farm where they had  a lot of activities such as hay rides, a pig show, a petting area, putt putt golf, U-pick vegetables and apples. Sure beats going to the grocery store to get our fall gourd items!