tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-89658213939391205102024-03-13T15:55:06.254-05:00Thousands of MillionsGenesis 24:60Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.comBlogger161125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-21548727818348199392011-09-21T19:16:00.002-05:002011-09-21T19:24:50.247-05:00Pinterest Projects<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLwlq458ES2-zXX3G5f4AEdjg56Ngp7X8CosE5aHEc6EmoijVRzNKtQQxsQmIvDcykIqSNKeOLu5N4zndIAcY3tPGCVTpuxOOUKzwa18YSkEECb7RhtGoTMBfTFblSrPjDh43iCgECtyfg/s1600/2011-09-21_16-47-45_778.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 113px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLwlq458ES2-zXX3G5f4AEdjg56Ngp7X8CosE5aHEc6EmoijVRzNKtQQxsQmIvDcykIqSNKeOLu5N4zndIAcY3tPGCVTpuxOOUKzwa18YSkEECb7RhtGoTMBfTFblSrPjDh43iCgECtyfg/s200/2011-09-21_16-47-45_778.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5654973328545834354" border="0" /></a><br />A group of my girlfriends and I have to decided to get together every couple of weeks and try to complete a project from our Pinterest Boards! Today I chose these pine cone candle holders because I had all of the materials:<br /><br /><br />Pine Cones<br />Paint or Spray Paint of your choice<br />Hot Glue Gun<br />Canning Jar Lids (Looks a lot better than the bottom of a can drink!)<br /><br />Cut the tapered end of the pine cone off a little so they will stand on their own. Paint the pine cone and hot glue the lids....WaaaLa!<br /><br />Cute and Easy.Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-90135007663152802492011-07-01T11:05:00.002-05:002011-07-01T11:18:41.304-05:00"Momma said there'll be days like this..."This song has been going through my head all morning. It's just one of those days that I want to throw my hands up in the air and give up! From my work out to my appearance to my beautiful little 3 yr old.... <span style="font-style: italic;">Serenity Now!</span> <br /><br />Today was the final day of Week 2 Boot Camp. I went outside to start my sprints and my tata's just couldn't handle it, see yesterday's post! I had pumped off the pressure prior to trying to sprint and I had also read that in order to reduce my supply the ladies need very little movement and stimulation. This one I did throw the arms up and came inside! <span style="font-style: italic;">TMI....sorry.</span><br /><br />I did however finish the rest of the workout, but man my heart just wasn't in it and my body knew it! Then I walked by my mirror and just growled at myself. My weigh has been up the past two days and I know it's just what my body is going through this week, but it's REALLY frustrating.<br /><br />Then there's the girl....This one is my own fault and I'm just merely venting! You know what, I'm not going to. I'm just going to ask for your prayers for my patience and for me to be able to give her the attention she desires!<br /><br />"Momma said there'll be days like this...."Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-38888306009311206972011-06-30T08:01:00.005-05:002011-06-30T10:54:10.851-05:00Who said it was going to be easy...<div style="text-align: center;">From the very beginning of this weight loss challenge, my one concern was breastfeeding. I want to lose weight however I do not want to jeopardize my milk supply. My little man is now two months old and after his two month check up, I have decided it's time for formula. This is a very hard and emotional thing for me to do... In a months time, Little E only gained one pound. <span style="font-style: italic;">At least he gained. </span>I had been talking with the hubs about this and praying about what is best and Ethan's Doctors appointment helped me to feel confident this was the best decision.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisIMpGmpCbetxLfGahuqIN-BmUGc3ykIRNVu9ubLgq9mcFUIFmZmzs4KcgUFM5Emp_5a2REAE8JEGvzRef-AkQ_DQOCNPnMzH7nWXST5u5hCVHsbDpJaoyoxnJEF6KqhemKHWNWBa_OWNu/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisIMpGmpCbetxLfGahuqIN-BmUGc3ykIRNVu9ubLgq9mcFUIFmZmzs4KcgUFM5Emp_5a2REAE8JEGvzRef-AkQ_DQOCNPnMzH7nWXST5u5hCVHsbDpJaoyoxnJEF6KqhemKHWNWBa_OWNu/s200/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624001788598159490" border="0" /></a><br />So with this decision, I feel like I can have the freedom to really concentrate on my body. This my friends is intimidating! Now I have no excuses, if I fail, it's my own fault.<br /><br />This week may be a set back in the weight area due to my boobs are like 5lb weights. I am relieving them on occasion but trying decrease my supply. This morning I was up in weight, but I'm sure the Johnsonville Brat Burger and potato salad for dinner last night did not help ;-)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWges5u6ifO9Aut1-_kT_H4WrhYb-KSyxLzMLvNx5yT8z5GOVBHXEm0Hbp08otN0a6aTiHKJLahMaHQsK2Eem2rHsMjo0K7PzkLg3JiIld1gpVP1Rj4t-pwESrVH2iGY7sb_WaujspFgRy/s1600/002.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWges5u6ifO9Aut1-_kT_H4WrhYb-KSyxLzMLvNx5yT8z5GOVBHXEm0Hbp08otN0a6aTiHKJLahMaHQsK2Eem2rHsMjo0K7PzkLg3JiIld1gpVP1Rj4t-pwESrVH2iGY7sb_WaujspFgRy/s200/002.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5624001798180053074" border="0" /></a><br />Yesterday was weigh in day <span style="font-style: italic;">(173.6</span>). I have successfully completed every day of boot camp and I know I have lost inches in my thighs and my waist. I have sucked at doing cardio on my off days. Going to hop on the bike as soon as I'm done!<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; color: rgb(0, 51, 0);">**Update: I just did 30 minutes of Spinnervals on my trainer. WoW! However, time flew by and it was the best ride I had completed on my trainer to date. Troy it's on!</span><br /><br />Next week will be hard, but I will make the most of my surroundings and do what I can.<br /></div>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-3029973008577580042011-06-26T07:50:00.002-05:002011-06-26T08:03:10.569-05:00Where does the time go...Wow, it's already Sunday and I haven't blogged all week! <span style="font-style: italic;">Sorry 'bout that.</span> I have had a busy week starting off the week with a sick child, then cleaning for company, a Dr's appt and lunch with my dear friend who recently moved away on Friday, a big day of family and eating and visiting with my Dad and sister on Saturday and here we are...Time to get back on track! <br /><br />However I successfully completed my boot camp for the week, weighed in and lost a little (not quite a full pound) but 'm ok with that! I did not get any cardio in this week other than boot camp... Cleaning and racing around Walmart with a screaming child may have helped a little though. <br /><br />I think I should set some goals for this week:<br /><br />1. Cardio - on days I don't have bootcamp.<br />2. Water - (2) 32oz jugs...<span style="font-style: italic;">this one is usually not a problem</span><br />3. No eating after 7:00pm...<span style="font-style: italic;">this one will be hard</span>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-16877368924700358202011-06-20T14:39:00.002-05:002011-06-20T14:55:24.759-05:00Sunday and MondaySunday was a really long day for us! I did get my exercise in and spent the rest of the day tending to a sick 3 yr old and waiting for my husband to arrive home. He and his co-workers took off on Friday and drove to the bottom of Louisiana to go fishing for the weekend! He had a ball, I'd say it was one heck of a Father's Day minus the fact his kiddos weren't with him :( (But we celebrated early and gave him a movie he loves and a mini photo album created by <a href="http://lindsayreneephoto.blogspot.com/2011/05/arnolds-murfreesboro-tn-photography.html">Lindsay Renee Photography</a>. I actually won a photo session and (3) mini albums and he loved them! Lindsay is also a friend of mine, so it was really cool to have her capture our family with her beautiful talent.<br /><br />Anyways back to my post...Oh wait, the Hubby did bring back some Red Fish (he caught), some mighty fine looking shrimp and some Daiquiri's in gallon milk jugs!!! YUM! Those will be consumed on cheat nights ;-) <br /><br />Now back to my post... Sunday's Workout:<br />Bike Trainer - 30 minutes<br />Weights, Ball Squats<br /><br />Today is a whole new ball game! Boot Camp is here and YES, I actually did it...<span style="font-style: italic;">Sorda. </span><br /><br />I started off doing Mountain Climbers after 2 1/2 sets, I decided to head outside and do sprints! LOL. I did take a bigger break then needed to hop online again to view the moves one more time. My least successful move was the Side Plank Dips. I just couldn't do it, but I tried, even though I looked like a fool. My left side was a lot better than my right...is that odd since I'm right handed? Anyways, Boot Camp W1D1 is complete.<br /><br />Tomorrow, if I can move my legs I will ride the bike trainer again...Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-70170999957289724232011-06-18T09:50:00.002-05:002011-06-18T09:58:19.842-05:00Recovery DayToday is going to be a recovery day....<br /><br />Yesterday morning started off well. I rode my trainer, did my weights and squats and headed over to take a very special Nanna to lunch for her Birthday! We decided to have Mexican, Yum-O! <span style="font-style: italic;">It's been a while for me...</span> I swore that I would eat light the rest of the day, well that didn't really happen! I had a girlfriend come to visit and she and the littlest child and I were going to go eat...Of course she chose Mexican ;-) Even though I had just had it, I did not turn it down. I really wanted a Margarita, but since I had the baby with me, I did not indulge! But I did eat a lot. <br /><br />So today I will get back on track and prepare for Mondays Boot Camp! <span style="font-style: italic;">Woot Woot</span><br /><br />Shout out to my friend and partner in weight loss crime <a href="http://naptimecreationsbymae.com/">Mae Anne</a> who is running her first 10 miler today! Go get 'em tiger....Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-60828375599288050002011-06-16T12:34:00.002-05:002011-06-16T12:45:29.789-05:00A Walk in the ParkYesterday was a pretty good day... I didn't get much done around the house, but I did really concentrate on my eating. So I am pleased.<br /><br />Today has been good so far as well. We had a good breakfast and then the kiddos and I loaded up to go the park and take a walk. It wasn't a long walk, maybe 2 miles, but I was sweating! It is H.O.T. on top of that I was pushing the kids in one of those school bus strollers that is so big and hard to control. <span style="font-style: italic;">So not used to that...</span> But we all had fun and ended the trip with a stop at the playground! <br /><br />This is about all I will do today, besides pick up my house. Tomorrow I will do a repeat of yesterday. I don't want to get burnt out to soon, it's only day two! Tomorrow Sisterhood is posting info about the 6 week boot camp we will be doing.... Looking forward to learning just how sore I'm gonna be ;-)Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-86676931872164053992011-06-15T10:07:00.003-05:002011-06-15T11:36:43.833-05:00D-Day<div style="text-align: center;"><br />So today is the first day of my challenge... It's 11 weeks long and I have to weigh in every Wednesday. 11 weeks is a long time in terms of eating right, exercise and losing weight, especially with a 3 year old and a 7 week old! I am pretty nervous, but I am going to use this time to eat better, add some kind of exercise to my daily regiment and feel good about myself.<br /><br />My problem areas are:<br />My tummy...hence having a baby 7 weeks ago.<br />My butt<br />My thighs<br />My flabby arms<br /><br />I guess it's safe to say...It ALL needs help! Here are some before pics I took this morning: <br /><br />6/15/2011 - 176.0lbs<br />Cardio -Bike Trainer, 30 minutes<br />Weights - Arms, Ball Squats<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4gRUkqGDrnjQEppClV3sS_vliEuoNxY81utW6IokdGIQ1qRMDY4tJJADJUSoe3hn9evPrSpo6-mgMf6TX2Sy17Admn94QPLnOqlkwlhr-xEalLwrwUW7jK870V4hR1dwsNAILYwk1idu8/s1600/021.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4gRUkqGDrnjQEppClV3sS_vliEuoNxY81utW6IokdGIQ1qRMDY4tJJADJUSoe3hn9evPrSpo6-mgMf6TX2Sy17Admn94QPLnOqlkwlhr-xEalLwrwUW7jK870V4hR1dwsNAILYwk1idu8/s200/021.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618484886502568498" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWoccBiu8D8keAX6F-jIyKSivoq3cEClkv6lt1bC7uUNYOcDyJx5NEe0Frhu7A-Ccvu3ZyGr7A8Mia83FkOLUglbfG4wy27gPwav9vTkLpHrvqC-FvFLKZgXQp2JcxfIxpym-7gwoLhRov/s1600/027.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWoccBiu8D8keAX6F-jIyKSivoq3cEClkv6lt1bC7uUNYOcDyJx5NEe0Frhu7A-Ccvu3ZyGr7A8Mia83FkOLUglbfG4wy27gPwav9vTkLpHrvqC-FvFLKZgXQp2JcxfIxpym-7gwoLhRov/s200/027.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618484878573129026" border="0" /></a><br />Gross! But I guess that is why I'm doing his challenge...<br />*Yes the naked little girl had to jump in! Ironically, I did not tell her to cover herself ;-) <br /></div>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-4898870032290306962011-06-14T08:24:00.003-05:002011-06-14T09:03:56.804-05:00It's that time again!<div style="text-align: center;">Time to get my booty back in shape! You know the drill, every year or so I get really involved and my blog turns into my workout accomplishments, <span style="font-style: italic;">blah blah blah...</span> Well it's that time again! Here I am almost 7 weeks after the birth of my amazingly handsome son --<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvXCSpbWZCwSXlhrPR8H3e_9sZe7mEFvyIQ4j35vi8T3z_rMawfvzWWEcB1loPlv5UKKRJ3va_3q-oPk86JjwqvmMEXysKczJwyxWwci-WZ8pfkb6-vdI2nPn4tzMwbFeLPS_q-SBbnBev/s1600/287.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvXCSpbWZCwSXlhrPR8H3e_9sZe7mEFvyIQ4j35vi8T3z_rMawfvzWWEcB1loPlv5UKKRJ3va_3q-oPk86JjwqvmMEXysKczJwyxWwci-WZ8pfkb6-vdI2nPn4tzMwbFeLPS_q-SBbnBev/s200/287.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5618066839760665074" border="0" /></a>And I'm ready to get this extra baggage off once and for all! I was doing wonderfully with my running and eating, until I came home to be with my precious little girl. I never had any time to get outside, then as you remember, I got pregnant...God had bigger plans for that sweet baby, but I never seemed to lose extra weight I put on. Then in August of last year I became pregnant again and that puts me where I'm at today! With two beautiful children and about 20 to 30 pounds over weight, <span style="font-weight: bold;">but it is all so worth it!!!</span> Now I am only about 4 pounds from my "pre-pregnancy" weight, but I want to go further than that, physically and athletically. This is my time,<span style="font-style: italic;"> if I can find that precious time to actually do it ;-)</span> <br /><br />I have many challenges ahead of me:<br />First and foremost is Breastfeeding! I do not want to jeopardize this.<br />Next is time, I will have to be dedicated to in-home workouts. I have my bike on a trainer and videos to do the rest...however I have to do them for it to actually work!<br /><br />So in order to get me started and all gun-ho about exercise again...I decided to sign up for a weight loss challenge; <a href="http://networkedblogs.com/j7WOX">Sisterhood of the Shrinking Jeans Burst into Summer Challenge!</a><br /><br />I am placed on a team with complete strangers who are all working towards the same goal...<span style="font-style: italic;">To shrink their jeans.</span> In the end the team with the most weight loss percentage wins, not sure what they win, but they win! I feel this will really help me to be accountable to myself because I hate to let people down. My girlfriend Mae Anne is the one who found this challenge and is doing it as well! I am excited to be able to share my progress with her and all of you, if I still have readers ;-) My goal is to record my days and weekly weigh-ins here as well. <span style="font-style: italic;">It could get ugly, folks!</span> I may even post some really awful pictures...YIKES! Some posts may be really long and some really short, but it helps me to write it all down.<br /><br />So please encourage me and I hope to encourage you as well! BTW, this starts tomorrow ;-)<br /></div>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-26896365712840240702011-04-20T12:20:00.003-05:002011-04-20T12:45:52.230-05:00Few and Far Between...<div style="text-align: center;">I just don't feel like I have a lot to say these days... But I for some reason I feel like I need to do a blog post today, so here we go!<br /><br />Life has been pretty busy lately, which is a great thing because I'm almost 39 weeks pregnant and in total shock that I'm still carrying this little bundle. My sweet little ball of fire was born at 37 weeks with a perfect and easy delivery, so as my husband would say I have been living in a dream world thinking this little guy would show up the same way. Not. So. Much. I started dilating at 35 weeks or so, that is when I had my first exam. Almost four weeks later I am just at 3cm. Knowing that this process is timely, I just take a deep breath and keep moving on. There have been ups and there have been downs, I have had some wild dreams and lots of sleepless nights. Legs cramps, nausea, bathroom issues are just some of the daily things I have become accustomed to. With my due date just a week away, I'm starting to think he is just going stay put. FOREVER! (ha!)<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTN6FIftT2EVJ1V3rR2yUiKNCF0BG49IVj9O557upJVTVnGK6BFFY7zXymVY2XjmnQdW2Cg41lVm5QzrcU1GxerflUSMtf4iEQa5iMEoIoAhhZ1uEp2bmkZua79vHhFT-cLqjvHmyQmBy/s1600/029.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaTN6FIftT2EVJ1V3rR2yUiKNCF0BG49IVj9O557upJVTVnGK6BFFY7zXymVY2XjmnQdW2Cg41lVm5QzrcU1GxerflUSMtf4iEQa5iMEoIoAhhZ1uEp2bmkZua79vHhFT-cLqjvHmyQmBy/s200/029.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5597722524584251634" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Ella has been so sweet, asking daily when baby Ethan will be here. I'm going to start telling her when she becomes a better listener, he will come ;-) God love an independent child! She is so fun and so full of imagination, but she is also very strong willed and when she doesn't think there is a need for her to do what I'm telling her she just flat out ignores me! We are working on this and I have decided it is mostly a "sleep" issue. <span style="font-style: italic;">(which is my fault and failure)</span> No matter her nap schedule, bed time is always 10pm or later, even if the process begins at 8:30pm. So hard and I just can't even begin to think of the struggles we will have with our schedule in about a week or so... she is a wonderful little girl though and I love watching her grow into such a fun personality!<br />I am excited to see what role she will take when her little brother comes home. I know she is going to be a big helper, whether the help is needed or not, that is just how she is...She loves to be involved with Jeramy and I. :-)<br /><br />Here's to a new journey for our family and prayers that God will continue to bless each and every one of us as he leads us...<br /></div>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-69340692639966067572011-03-16T14:57:00.003-05:002011-03-16T15:20:33.972-05:00It's the Final Countdown...<div style="text-align: center;">I had my 34 week check up today and little Ethan is growing just perfectly! His heart is strong, he is measuring exactly on 34 weeks and I have only gained 20 pounds thus far... <span style="font-style: italic;">I say that with pride and a big exhale! </span>I will return to the Doctor on the 30th, then it's every week with an examination, from there. I have been so blessed with this pregnancy! A boy, he's healthy, he's beautiful (<span style="font-style: italic;">from what I can tell).</span> With a difficult first trimester, I am so thankful that the rest of this pregnancy has been a breeze!<br /><br />We are so ready to begin this next chapter in our lives, God has a lot in store for us and I can't wait to sing his praises!<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">(34 wks. No lipstick and just woke up from a nap!)</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFqVMK4yLP2imjkgICmZheLPZrQpXbMcST5ZQRVSpYQw6C72QXmDv6MXDALIm4KiFiDk0dkv0b7VdqnsYJpnLn4FC-9qtaYbMW_lGbE_PkgYdVbNOSS0YWBYY9GWnn5ZpTXIuXy6p9zdmp/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 136px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgFqVMK4yLP2imjkgICmZheLPZrQpXbMcST5ZQRVSpYQw6C72QXmDv6MXDALIm4KiFiDk0dkv0b7VdqnsYJpnLn4FC-9qtaYbMW_lGbE_PkgYdVbNOSS0YWBYY9GWnn5ZpTXIuXy6p9zdmp/s200/004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584769813956202098" border="0" /></a>Remember when I showed you a little piece of something I've been working on? Well here it is! My Mother and I made a clock for Ethan's room. Since I don't have any artistic bones in my body, Mom painted his monogram on there for me. I love it!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWmQZwzi3holPDVDfLALKPzTR0MGJ7FyFACnmHbjdtM2hwhBgm4NtlbUo3n8d5mQv1cWlwIbNUkG7e1AQgeQxjPG-MSVJj4qAGFiwJZEFNVrli_7eoO9KqBs1R_xzvNpFSPER15hSEmNNE/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWmQZwzi3holPDVDfLALKPzTR0MGJ7FyFACnmHbjdtM2hwhBgm4NtlbUo3n8d5mQv1cWlwIbNUkG7e1AQgeQxjPG-MSVJj4qAGFiwJZEFNVrli_7eoO9KqBs1R_xzvNpFSPER15hSEmNNE/s200/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5584769808817068770" border="0" /></a>When I nursed Ella, I had always said I needed a clock in her room. I had seen some homemade ones out there and always thought "Now that is something I can do!" So I did it. It's not perfect, but I think it is a great compliment to his room.<br /></div>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-86668165865271482752011-03-08T15:36:00.005-06:002011-03-08T16:20:09.054-06:00Birthday Bonanza!<div style="text-align: center;">Our beautiful little girl is 3 years old now! She celebrated her big day with lots of special occasions. These pictures are backwards, <span style="font-style: italic;">due to the fact it's been a while since I've blogged and forgot that uploading pictures is such a pain...</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Birthday Morning!</span><br />Breakfast celebration with some gifts and cupcakes.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvvRXLy38dL_rpDR_3jslw4x0BVvBHPATNSHjsdZt0z3Sfs0JDuMnfXWuJqoRpuV3k7P3pZvSss8vX6OmFAV5lqxXlPZApxEuIq_hkv3-a5owspxk1Ct7duY3_PRaiL9EbvHllrAx1Z3pq/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvvRXLy38dL_rpDR_3jslw4x0BVvBHPATNSHjsdZt0z3Sfs0JDuMnfXWuJqoRpuV3k7P3pZvSss8vX6OmFAV5lqxXlPZApxEuIq_hkv3-a5owspxk1Ct7duY3_PRaiL9EbvHllrAx1Z3pq/s200/005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581831421408123106" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Birthday Evening!</span><br />Bonfire Celebration with Mom, Dad, Ella and Danner (Our Dog)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl9BJ-qsyQAC-wk76x0a_s719mfLDz49hiw_-oCwt3QmL-EamNNF0atNz5a_JZ10WAM7oW66MEq4chFjBT-4UarfVcplGyOTCJ1n5LeLriJuzDJ0zKpbeCERzO1h1XpAHSCo1z030z1amf/s1600/016.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl9BJ-qsyQAC-wk76x0a_s719mfLDz49hiw_-oCwt3QmL-EamNNF0atNz5a_JZ10WAM7oW66MEq4chFjBT-4UarfVcplGyOTCJ1n5LeLriJuzDJ0zKpbeCERzO1h1XpAHSCo1z030z1amf/s200/016.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581831425966470002" border="0" /></a>Ella learning how to cook a hot dog on a stick!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3dQleitHW1c7D369BeUAwDBbs_c3cyf46A8kh7L4oPe7bwjiG0hhMVgzTxcExy-p-H6ulVKav5ad-0PgrWJDPyM6bd6xzpPWIL_jBwoI9sgYPJDeMckPKsqU4_v7bZ2CK1g8USHUhW1X-/s1600/013.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3dQleitHW1c7D369BeUAwDBbs_c3cyf46A8kh7L4oPe7bwjiG0hhMVgzTxcExy-p-H6ulVKav5ad-0PgrWJDPyM6bd6xzpPWIL_jBwoI9sgYPJDeMckPKsqU4_v7bZ2CK1g8USHUhW1X-/s200/013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581831427145139090" border="0" /></a><br />And it wouldn't be a bonfire without SMORES!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5KENPkxsldyd7Fvh93bvFRLktp-FxC9C4dgQ0GMSb8L0mWzIvI-gD6NxIa3GUEHzmPm-ynEEswmQVp2YWOrn7PlLf0cL_KbFLd_BSGQbzbFDBZ8C8Og7Z8VoIYmfE9tc7jf2Vje9nRFKs/s1600/053.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg5KENPkxsldyd7Fvh93bvFRLktp-FxC9C4dgQ0GMSb8L0mWzIvI-gD6NxIa3GUEHzmPm-ynEEswmQVp2YWOrn7PlLf0cL_KbFLd_BSGQbzbFDBZ8C8Og7Z8VoIYmfE9tc7jf2Vje9nRFKs/s200/053.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581831434026731442" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">The weekend before her 3rd Birthday!</span><br /><br />Family Night at Papa Ron's turned into BIG Birthday Celebration for Ella!!! We planned to just eat pizza and cupcakes and play with cousins, but Nana T and Papa had other plans :-) They had a whole celebration set up for their special little Ella!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4v2LdUrslBjxpCYfFVvoKdN7A73ej9qF5sgmLlCsWQjVRkDrBmBHJoR4zGc95EJ0CkluUjwL_52edeP8SS5WTeYZvK46m92v57HjiAvFT4qJCrFNSipYErhjOiYWzhjj8KPGBBbID96wF/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi4v2LdUrslBjxpCYfFVvoKdN7A73ej9qF5sgmLlCsWQjVRkDrBmBHJoR4zGc95EJ0CkluUjwL_52edeP8SS5WTeYZvK46m92v57HjiAvFT4qJCrFNSipYErhjOiYWzhjj8KPGBBbID96wF/s200/005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581830293748130978" border="0" /></a>Ice Cream Cake!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcJ8l7itrpMpkN6Ajxf-eU5_lWa1_a6KHta4ww0ZUp6jTO_F5QujE5qFOLtTRN9hMglUP7SxyL-azG_jny_WadhxF-BmGpa2qJC7kWYznXwY7niGBDrRUPBqLq1qzsMFxKeM3dXexuw7oF/s1600/009.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcJ8l7itrpMpkN6Ajxf-eU5_lWa1_a6KHta4ww0ZUp6jTO_F5QujE5qFOLtTRN9hMglUP7SxyL-azG_jny_WadhxF-BmGpa2qJC7kWYznXwY7niGBDrRUPBqLq1qzsMFxKeM3dXexuw7oF/s200/009.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581830300418748562" border="0" /></a>Cousins! Noelle and Ashlyn, Owen was off playing....<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Gb0rr3ZtqrH9obF_SiVgAmbTe5QBDJjX9hiiSrJHrJiIoBZelFu2vaPt-0ohjpbhPR7OgBul2eiPmp1OK-HMSpkjBYz4B5XbcRnnVmpH0Innu-gyrk9tvPn-nf0PCrKnCj8caKvl8A3U/s1600/001.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Gb0rr3ZtqrH9obF_SiVgAmbTe5QBDJjX9hiiSrJHrJiIoBZelFu2vaPt-0ohjpbhPR7OgBul2eiPmp1OK-HMSpkjBYz4B5XbcRnnVmpH0Innu-gyrk9tvPn-nf0PCrKnCj8caKvl8A3U/s200/001.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581830289406018162" border="0" /></a>Ella received a 12 gallon fish tank from Nana T and Papa along with 6 little fish! <span style="font-style: italic;">We are sad to report that there are only two remaining....</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs-RSS__T3CuLXiHfWgSGWzA68MykUFM6g__JGtUWZpRuDpW2hGXvjZtzWJyyZGIGyO-U1qn22Tu0eOMviI7f4PxvlVSPXTNF55AbFTL5Hf0IBuD9chgRt7-Z-fik1oW7sGviN78uuM6g4/s1600/015.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhs-RSS__T3CuLXiHfWgSGWzA68MykUFM6g__JGtUWZpRuDpW2hGXvjZtzWJyyZGIGyO-U1qn22Tu0eOMviI7f4PxvlVSPXTNF55AbFTL5Hf0IBuD9chgRt7-Z-fik1oW7sGviN78uuM6g4/s200/015.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581830302683017730" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;">Mini Celebration with Ella and her Besties....Henry and Grady!</span><br /><br />They gave Ella these awesome sandals and some lip gloss that we wear everyday!!!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLzs6zeGtb-33-ftJdHxSLXHqRbOXO3VvGpq9GO2gyf12G-1aGTV3dQxguegmK8NGCNTS5EmqR05lu5tKzbzgYNjKCYIa3B_OYfxEjJrbQqKP8u-dzlS5Fgzmxq2jULv9Mlp_5VtmonJ0i/s1600/DSC_0492.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 133px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhLzs6zeGtb-33-ftJdHxSLXHqRbOXO3VvGpq9GO2gyf12G-1aGTV3dQxguegmK8NGCNTS5EmqR05lu5tKzbzgYNjKCYIa3B_OYfxEjJrbQqKP8u-dzlS5Fgzmxq2jULv9Mlp_5VtmonJ0i/s200/DSC_0492.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581828921491256978" border="0" /></a>Everybody wanted some chap stick!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZGLzYwwJF9alyRWrCJayBM8ZrNLkGwQMUX8cQr96yRQ5YMX02CimqxlslKdh7_I6RfXJxFXJKMjBcJhbMdN2ZbrQm7wRAmYUiX5GDYGmqNd21d9TQxoWh9WbHuzo50Wstjv3FyeLyA01r/s1600/DSC_0490.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZGLzYwwJF9alyRWrCJayBM8ZrNLkGwQMUX8cQr96yRQ5YMX02CimqxlslKdh7_I6RfXJxFXJKMjBcJhbMdN2ZbrQm7wRAmYUiX5GDYGmqNd21d9TQxoWh9WbHuzo50Wstjv3FyeLyA01r/s200/DSC_0490.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581828914445241730" border="0" /></a>Hugging her Boys and telling them thank you!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEljUbIZSR2ZVo2cCXZn4ASHauOnfMWz8lIKW5sp2-ruIg7a5_WsyFQ4eS2huj3YvOKXDlMueUEbEqoyzalwfk5pBgB8b-NDC73RWvjNM0jy96jRhr4nvPYuWYMxCZeO8AA36YgIziijvz/s1600/DSC_0171.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 133px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEljUbIZSR2ZVo2cCXZn4ASHauOnfMWz8lIKW5sp2-ruIg7a5_WsyFQ4eS2huj3YvOKXDlMueUEbEqoyzalwfk5pBgB8b-NDC73RWvjNM0jy96jRhr4nvPYuWYMxCZeO8AA36YgIziijvz/s200/DSC_0171.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5581828929440331522" border="0" /></a><br />She also had 2 more celebrations, one with Nanna and Poppie and one with her cousins on my side, in which we shared an Ice Cream Sundae Party with Dylan who turned 5 that same week...<br /><br />We are not big Birthday party parents, but Ella sure did have a lot of celebrations from those who love her! Thank you everyone who made Ella's day Super Special!<br /></div>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-73305272759934245542011-02-11T15:54:00.003-06:002011-02-11T16:21:22.480-06:00<div style="text-align: center;">I can't really explain where I have been or what I've been doing....<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />We have definitely been busy, but it's not the "Oh I can't wait to BLOG about this!" type of busy. It's like most every day of the week is filled with good stuff like play dates and Dr's appointments, so I can't complain...I just feel kinda lame!<br /><br />Ella:<br />Well she is doing great! She loves that she has had lots of play time this week. She has been tired and sleeping good, but doesn't go to bed early! We have had a great week though, she has been helpful and happy and is she is so excited about her 3rd Birthday coming up! She probably talks about it everyday. We aren't planning a big party, but we are having a joint celebration with my nephew Dylan and our family!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi497bBXEud2hitx8CPXslLzW61gZ3oBpN-Uh78dzMYd52MRC-3RFJw-4P5sZIcJGUn5cZj81qEV_kGHZT0fRoEZUydD_qKFfkyBebOlbWoU9A2LNRZfa_JdWbNr85R3r33m8WdopSAHwRm/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi497bBXEud2hitx8CPXslLzW61gZ3oBpN-Uh78dzMYd52MRC-3RFJw-4P5sZIcJGUn5cZj81qEV_kGHZT0fRoEZUydD_qKFfkyBebOlbWoU9A2LNRZfa_JdWbNr85R3r33m8WdopSAHwRm/s200/005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572559797861601730" border="0" /></a><br />She loves dancing and Barbies and anything girlie! Despite her efforts to do everything by herself...She is such a sweet and loving little girl!<br /><br />Ethan:<br />He is doing good! Really starting to make some big movement and he has started getting the hiccups almost daily, usually in the morning. I am 29 weeks and will be going to the Dr. every two weeks until I reach 36 weeks. My weight gain is about 18 lbs, <span style="font-style: italic;">I'm not sure why I just put that out there but oh well!</span> I feel large some days and not so big on others. I have had a lot of sciatic pain, but other than that everything is going great.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizxEwfgeNvzI36KTeAHF1Js3kaTLBOzj2mX1QYOz2OE_Cw8Qz8aUvApm1uxePR4hHvHq49u_5HoeVvs5x_i2Ktp9o4iEw1idltyHFwL7T6k3dsUUpVWEChSeAxsignE3fAuWXslV4Lwax8/s1600/003.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizxEwfgeNvzI36KTeAHF1Js3kaTLBOzj2mX1QYOz2OE_Cw8Qz8aUvApm1uxePR4hHvHq49u_5HoeVvs5x_i2Ktp9o4iEw1idltyHFwL7T6k3dsUUpVWEChSeAxsignE3fAuWXslV4Lwax8/s200/003.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572559796797593410" border="0" /></a><br />I have not done a whole lot to his room. I did get all of the baby necessities from Heather this past week and Ella has had more fun with that stuff... I don't feel rushed to have every little thing right away because I have the basics, but my wonderful group of friends in Manchester threw me and another one of our friends, that is due right after me, a surprise shower last night! It was so much fun and I got some really great things! Cute outfits, diapers, monogrammed bibs, burp clothes and a diaper cover, medicine, wash clothes....I feel so blessed!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZC4pz-EcAHQNnm0jp51WNUcvXtfQctz6TU0DBkG8LoO2mG9WzYMtLi0SOdzaxt78Mm3z-MzofpgWrOnloMVS7Uggtsa-hnX4z62McyM3dzXC6CRbka6zfFVfJHewFQFrihLuOC5K7W3gg/s1600/004.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZC4pz-EcAHQNnm0jp51WNUcvXtfQctz6TU0DBkG8LoO2mG9WzYMtLi0SOdzaxt78Mm3z-MzofpgWrOnloMVS7Uggtsa-hnX4z62McyM3dzXC6CRbka6zfFVfJHewFQFrihLuOC5K7W3gg/s200/004.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5572559793548734706" border="0" /></a><br /><br />The next week is suppose to be really nice outside so I'm hoping we can get out a little and knock some of this dust off of us... In the mean time, I'll try to think of some interesting posts to write about!<br /></div>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-67177654177963704922011-01-25T14:29:00.004-06:002011-01-25T15:03:21.441-06:00Ticking Time Bomb<div style="text-align: center;">The past two days have been um, different. My little love bug is being a little terror! So it's about 3 weeks until her 3rd Birthday and I'm totally convinced it's not the <span style="font-style: italic;">Terrible Twos, </span>it's most definitely the <span style="font-style: italic;">Terrible Threes</span>! She is not being bad, per say...but crazy, sneaky, silly, rowdy, argumentative; I could go on.<br /><br />Let me give you a couple of examples:<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Yesterday, as I was blow drying my hair, I opened the bathroom door to find her slathered in Vick's Vapor Rub! "Look Mommy, lotion!" Oh boy...even though we bathed she looked like a grease monkey for the rest of the day.</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />As we are standing in the check out at the store, she </span><span style="font-style: italic;">had her back to me...As I peeked around her I found her opening a pack of Mentos! So of course I had to buy them, but she did not have one. ;-) I decid</span><span style="font-style: italic;">ed to share them with my bible study!</span> <span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />My phone rings, this monkey goes wild. Screaming, jumping, climbing all over me! What in the world... </span><br /><br />I could go on with examples as well, but I won't. I know my nerves are a little short these days, so maybe it's just me. With all of this craziness she still looks at me with a smile on her face and says "Mommy....I love you!" Brings it all back together.<br /><br />Speaking of Time...<br /><br />I have a new little project! Let's just call it wall decor for Ethan's room. I will reveal the whole thing soon, but for now here is a couple of sneak peaks:<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Goodwill find for .49 cents</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1YrH-QXl0Xu5s2cXQ4nChr1KXrDcUL-smX540CqeSqNIBOHijylB0X77H0rhcWGBVYolW8_OWiqQbjSao4pTB3XPL6CTRWNv_8wZxb4Ls2sW7sbjEK7akCIld7vth3ZD61HbAXJTVh85q/s1600/0124011719.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1YrH-QXl0Xu5s2cXQ4nChr1KXrDcUL-smX540CqeSqNIBOHijylB0X77H0rhcWGBVYolW8_OWiqQbjSao4pTB3XPL6CTRWNv_8wZxb4Ls2sW7sbjEK7akCIld7vth3ZD61HbAXJTVh85q/s200/0124011719.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566230149370125986" border="0" /></a><br />A little paint...<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2wmzwMSW1cfao-SXAa-8rSbNSw4gwJ-idP01acDwEtXQXy7gKsXDuz39OqM-eGQGR4JpxkPGa6NBWRrGdXdZjm9vaodDr5b6HuC3bpNEXMgh6PVP2hU9Kj2Fg4i_GfqEdxb-cmCLCh794/s1600/0124011720.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2wmzwMSW1cfao-SXAa-8rSbNSw4gwJ-idP01acDwEtXQXy7gKsXDuz39OqM-eGQGR4JpxkPGa6NBWRrGdXdZjm9vaodDr5b6HuC3bpNEXMgh6PVP2hU9Kj2Fg4i_GfqEdxb-cmCLCh794/s200/0124011720.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566229949918146162" border="0" /></a><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">The first coat!</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLFquaBEYqaHpKF_nRJpiC0IXeiuybkCLtGvb2xhllClWSjD7OUB8iCN3gnkUXoCshZxf88AP-_qb93-qbag_DtRjk8PAeluK9uPynrBaItgq1BgsylIMr2CCE96SGp8Wg_TRHvRMnNlCf/s1600/0124011723.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLFquaBEYqaHpKF_nRJpiC0IXeiuybkCLtGvb2xhllClWSjD7OUB8iCN3gnkUXoCshZxf88AP-_qb93-qbag_DtRjk8PAeluK9uPynrBaItgq1BgsylIMr2CCE96SGp8Wg_TRHvRMnNlCf/s200/0124011723.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5566229948342766258" border="0" /></a><br /></div>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-47031216783398898492011-01-23T08:09:00.002-06:002011-01-23T08:35:32.320-06:00Life AFTER Kids...<div style="text-align: center;">Is pretty amazing!<br /><br />Don't get me wrong it is definitely hard, we have been through so many struggles. It's a new kind of responsibility, but at the end of the day it is so gratifying! But do you remember the days of just you and the Hubby or even just you, when life was a party?? It was a weekend ritual to eat out, you saw friends on a weekly basis, you both worked full-time jobs and money <span style="font-style: italic;">was never an issue....</span> <br /><br />When Ella came into our lives a lot of things changed. We both still worked, but time was precious and learned to spent our weekends at home. Don't get me wrong, we still played! We have some amazing family that is so willing to help us and spend time with our daughter, but lately we have become a lot more home bound and even including our Bean in anything we do. <span style="font-style: italic;">I guess you could say, we are becoming mentally prepared for two kids... </span><br /><br />The Hubby laughs at me when I get so gitty about going out, with our family! Ella hasn't always been the easiest child to take to dinner, but lately we have had these family date nights that is such a treat... But something always happens, sickness. I try to make excuses, but you know when to call it quits. To me going out as a family is such a prize and being home all day, I look so forward to the company. Which brings me to life AFTER kids, how funny is it that things change so much. The things we look forward to now, the family time we crave.... It's all part of that unseen plan. Life after kids, I wouldn't change a thing!<br /></div>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-35335551732481438772011-01-14T08:58:00.005-06:002011-01-14T09:46:27.458-06:00Ethan John and Some Quality Girl Time!<div style="text-align: center;">Yesterday was a big day for Ethan and me! We both had a task at hand that needed to be very successful. I needed to pass my glucose test, in which I will get results for next week, and he needed to show his spine! <br /><br />At 20 weeks, Ethan was immobile...curled up in a ball and not going to move for anything. Thank God he was proud enough to let us know we were having a precious baby boy! Since he was so snug, my Doctor requested another ultra sound to get the rest of his spinal views. <br /><br />1. Spine is very important and it comforted me to know that everything was A.O.K.<br />2. I was thrilled to get to see my boy again!<br /><br />Ethan really put on a performance for us yesterday! It may have been because I had just chugged pure sugar, but nonetheless he was a Rock Star...<br /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">(3D picture: mouth, nose, eyes, arms around face)<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic2ZMrOXD-NvsfP4Mikt1YkIqd6vENmDTKcxlM-CyXuROomPtGuQgMEZyDfULUPBw70kiR9qxs81zbDCI2XyO8p-MeLb9K7O7sdA83Cggv9EFZmFRfzBU7a-4OvN-C004OptIkMHu9FmN8/s1600/ARNOLDBETHANY20110113130029837.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEic2ZMrOXD-NvsfP4Mikt1YkIqd6vENmDTKcxlM-CyXuROomPtGuQgMEZyDfULUPBw70kiR9qxs81zbDCI2XyO8p-MeLb9K7O7sdA83Cggv9EFZmFRfzBU7a-4OvN-C004OptIkMHu9FmN8/s200/ARNOLDBETHANY20110113130029837.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562057315575475698" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">(3D: Same Image, maybe a little more of the face)<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihFEspa5a8WlLxI80NgWHwD9RDg7k0E0pKaWsbQ4qkpINIKz2jJ2A1uaBaRDq9OeGHgNfobbnqAm2G-D9gwC7CZOIsJLP9BmAVvht22eHvcCsPSpXUnJfTWDQetIK_oWbwvurkTsVBlzY_/s1600/ARNOLDBETHANY20110113130055867.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihFEspa5a8WlLxI80NgWHwD9RDg7k0E0pKaWsbQ4qkpINIKz2jJ2A1uaBaRDq9OeGHgNfobbnqAm2G-D9gwC7CZOIsJLP9BmAVvht22eHvcCsPSpXUnJfTWDQetIK_oWbwvurkTsVBlzY_/s200/ARNOLDBETHANY20110113130055867.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562057315134252338" border="0" /></a>Thanks to my girlfriend Holly Jane, I knew to ask for some 3D images! WOW, is all I can say. I love it! It was hard to get a great 3D image of Ethan because his arms were hugging his face and his cord was right in that area too.<br /></div><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">(Ultra Sound: Profile)<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOfCket7QOLBTEPsW4sWu5AKGT7ec1aWqnDCO8R7njdbQmYTe0CdSWtKkjDgFYNiKA3KqNanvuyq8MaRV43zMKOw0ccYBNmMvwYFJHMTuNpxAI53PUQVo01HEPndc2Ithy1eC6RWv1WXU1/s1600/ARNOLDBETHANY20110113130234024.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOfCket7QOLBTEPsW4sWu5AKGT7ec1aWqnDCO8R7njdbQmYTe0CdSWtKkjDgFYNiKA3KqNanvuyq8MaRV43zMKOw0ccYBNmMvwYFJHMTuNpxAI53PUQVo01HEPndc2Ithy1eC6RWv1WXU1/s200/ARNOLDBETHANY20110113130234024.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562057305505163778" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">This is where my Rock Star comes in... <br /><br />(U/S: Lateral View... "Hi Mom!")<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC0tFpe2aUViVbTw4_aScd8As57AzwKE2DvsfH_sftZGnRpohPnEodZcMuiif_tWgdbVfK1ZLEMBJ-nXUPVjUiC-rg1VW9l_XHNkp266JrLPIAU80FM_KFrFa4Mt3AcNMPNCJ1vy5agryB/s1600/ARNOLDBETHANY20110113125806816.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhC0tFpe2aUViVbTw4_aScd8As57AzwKE2DvsfH_sftZGnRpohPnEodZcMuiif_tWgdbVfK1ZLEMBJ-nXUPVjUiC-rg1VW9l_XHNkp266JrLPIAU80FM_KFrFa4Mt3AcNMPNCJ1vy5agryB/s200/ARNOLDBETHANY20110113125806816.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562057299147428258" border="0" /></a>I laughed so hard! What a cheese. He was yawning, moving his mouth, sticking his tongue out all things that a baby does. <span style="font-style: italic;">I just wanted to scoop him out and hold him right then and there and kiss is little yawning mouth!</span> But he needs to stay just where he's at for now!<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">(Right Foot, I believe)<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Ls0SdMLmXYgd9dIHPfLQ47h3e5MKuHr6iz1ssEOuTWtMkCUXq_NUTaVObyekJ6WzswKrcEx7NNFqgt8TlC-TlchSW5s_PGHtzsSUztBhSFKe5kF58QPK5CtV3sxG5R-0Sprw1SURZy__/s1600/ARNOLDBETHANY20110113130206822.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Ls0SdMLmXYgd9dIHPfLQ47h3e5MKuHr6iz1ssEOuTWtMkCUXq_NUTaVObyekJ6WzswKrcEx7NNFqgt8TlC-TlchSW5s_PGHtzsSUztBhSFKe5kF58QPK5CtV3sxG5R-0Sprw1SURZy__/s200/ARNOLDBETHANY20110113130206822.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562058091491242034" border="0" /></a><br />After my ultra sound, I had to do my blood work for my glucose. The Lab Tech assured me that pulling samples of blood is much more accurate than the good ole' finger prick, so I have a good chance in passing! <span style="font-style: italic;"> (Let's hope so...)</span> After that I had a great visit with Dr. J and she was very pleased with my progress. I've gained about 14 pounds, which she was was good, but I just laughed...Oh My Word! I still have 3 months to go.<br /><br />After my appointment, I did some shopping and even bought some blue hangers for Ethan's closet. <span style="font-style: italic;">Yes, I got really excited about coat hangers!</span> Then I met up with one of my best girlfriends to celebrate getting old. Since this time last year we have wanted to do one of those painting classes, but it just never happened... So this year with both of us turning 30, we were determined to go paint! It was so much fun, it was also pretty stressful. We left there saying "At least we can say we did it!" <br /><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Erin and I with our Master Pieces!<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL9ijbuH5QJBzj96qsf9qGM_IB0xPyOlILJ1tQLHAbm1ta06BMd488fv-tbydTDS2r2VoQ4OTxtpq05vy7WVc7ZxigBR5ej1ki7cYeftZCPwQvHIKGA52TnCpemCYueead4VSpBr6JDQIV/s1600/0113012155.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL9ijbuH5QJBzj96qsf9qGM_IB0xPyOlILJ1tQLHAbm1ta06BMd488fv-tbydTDS2r2VoQ4OTxtpq05vy7WVc7ZxigBR5ej1ki7cYeftZCPwQvHIKGA52TnCpemCYueead4VSpBr6JDQIV/s200/0113012155.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562058107821728914" border="0" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: center;">A Work in Progress!<br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_zc1_eONNcdDuPVFOmgv7UgREjAiaTJKUnWMc9cZgcPZmfsIRIxMP4g-HduKOrtNVtYd87CH_FIp9QMqTnEwudf-LAPpDGXK6IevNy9w2-fWKVoxxQhbVrkOaR61COcTIIBrbON6cn0Wg/s1600/0113012041.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_zc1_eONNcdDuPVFOmgv7UgREjAiaTJKUnWMc9cZgcPZmfsIRIxMP4g-HduKOrtNVtYd87CH_FIp9QMqTnEwudf-LAPpDGXK6IevNy9w2-fWKVoxxQhbVrkOaR61COcTIIBrbON6cn0Wg/s200/0113012041.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5562058105554551090" border="0" /></a><br /></div>It was such a great day! And some time away that I so badly needed!<br /></div><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgit_6yB3HzqrAALO9DHb-qd1WePbXsZLwFT9oauQ-0gqimK4oeRlrR9PYSNUGTkjv6rnHoHQpuQYC1OpFZIftFhfsr-v3XEnNfhv323WDRcuuOMSfsACbUN43mWphD6QXDvnaNPJ1hzfH7/s1600/ARNOLDBETHANY20110113130055867.jpg"><br /></a>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-26893606577716586292011-01-10T15:31:00.003-06:002011-01-10T15:56:31.803-06:00<div style="text-align: center;">There was a prediction for snow in Middle Tennessee! Looks like they nailed this one ;-)<br /><br />We woke up to 6" or 7" inches of snow this morning. It's beautiful! Ella was eager to head outside, so we did...But the real fun came when Daddy got home. We broke out the sled and the coveralls and had a blast!<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM3l8z1AnxvbJkpczz0OoXM-WOI8t4lbBX7I4laRF-WDl1xQ0zL-StwGda98rCxvkr0MLtVS7uXdhK7Z2SxS-2HkBVSBrO7MJ_sM-pxzYZCOwUs6LZDutPQziplc_nUe0Vf3KmJc-wNeY4/s1600/013.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgM3l8z1AnxvbJkpczz0OoXM-WOI8t4lbBX7I4laRF-WDl1xQ0zL-StwGda98rCxvkr0MLtVS7uXdhK7Z2SxS-2HkBVSBrO7MJ_sM-pxzYZCOwUs6LZDutPQziplc_nUe0Vf3KmJc-wNeY4/s200/013.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560674791323176690" border="0" /></a>Ella loved sledding and did it over and over and over....<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmKkdZDNdqeCvV0pjQx2y6g4kLKYR4BWsvNial4xVjYM-t3igR-Q0WE43slbzzvhBpRpK-pNRYi2QWpT1TEm8cGNEuU-H01X_aHWcYqXJw9moTOnGOu68BkOs9-4meSHSCDTwHXPmbU4Qa/s1600/005.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmKkdZDNdqeCvV0pjQx2y6g4kLKYR4BWsvNial4xVjYM-t3igR-Q0WE43slbzzvhBpRpK-pNRYi2QWpT1TEm8cGNEuU-H01X_aHWcYqXJw9moTOnGOu68BkOs9-4meSHSCDTwHXPmbU4Qa/s200/005.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560674785498872562" border="0" /></a>But got a little tired walking back up the hill! I cracked up at how Jeramy just scooped her up, she didn't care, she wasn't walking :-)<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXHHQmEivK2v_7Qfik1ah2mD_nG3YpPPBkLQ7OfJKUsJyMxkPeFur7RtGgqWaAcCb3lsE3xG6tMhr47hRaTbPGOYa515TzPTLfbHJaUczmY3HasznT3vrKgKnAalPFZxlHnfSOyn-ZW0zN/s1600/012.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXHHQmEivK2v_7Qfik1ah2mD_nG3YpPPBkLQ7OfJKUsJyMxkPeFur7RtGgqWaAcCb3lsE3xG6tMhr47hRaTbPGOYa515TzPTLfbHJaUczmY3HasznT3vrKgKnAalPFZxlHnfSOyn-ZW0zN/s200/012.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5560674777612715074" border="0" /></a>So the trick to sledding is to "wear down the path!" That way you will go REALLY fast. This particular path went between the trees so me, being over-protective, had to go stand down there just in case she strayed from the "path." Meanwhile, I thought it was a great time for a video!<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allowfullscreen='allowfullscreen' webkitallowfullscreen='webkitallowfullscreen' mozallowfullscreen='mozallowfullscreen' width='320' height='266' src='https://www.blogger.com/video.g?token=AD6v5dy6D1d1-cI-QcnF_MlrpxRQA08NKxI6pMNTQf8pUYXRhaMJsFnzH1DVRBUHp-R5Km8uMHTYMtzRlbNg7aVK2A' class='b-hbp-video b-uploaded' frameborder='0'></iframe></div>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-74423727209110280082011-01-07T19:10:00.003-06:002011-01-07T19:46:31.185-06:00What time is it? Resolution Time!!!<span style="font-family: georgia;">It's the new year and everybody sets new goals. Some of them are meant to be broken and some goals will go on to be routines within our daily lives. I've never been one to say "In 2011, I am going to be in the best shape of my life..." and so on, however I do always have it on my mind to do better than the year before! January 1, 2011 I felt inspired and inclined to do some sort of exercise. It didn't happen but that is one of the biggest resolutions set in a new year. </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: georgia;">What was your resolution?</span><span style="font-family: georgia;"> Spoken or unspoken. </span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">Being six months pregnant, I should already have an exercise routine in place, but I don't. My first trimester was filled with sickness, homework and of course a lovely two year old! Everything besides those 3 things in my life were neglected. Husband and Housework were a thing of the past. The dishes got done only when there were none left or something smelt really bad and the laundry sat in a pile behind my couch. So needless to say I was not going to go for a walk!</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family: georgia;">So all of this talk about New Years Resolution has me thinking... Since I can't be an aerobic queen, what am I going to do in this new year? </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: georgia;">Besides birth a child, raise a 2 year old and love a most giving husband.</span><span style="font-family: georgia;"> What I have decided and what I have already accomplished greatly in this year is keeping my home in order, while doing the above listed items! I have these friends and sisters, </span><span style="font-style: italic; font-family: georgia;">that I'm not naming names</span><span style="font-family: georgia;">, who keep an immaculate home and here I am praying that my neighbor doesn't stop by to see the mess we live in! For whatever reason, I have emptied my sink daily this week and folded and put away laundry, picked up toys and made beds....The hubby is enjoying my efforts as well as I. Maybe I'm just feeling really good this week, but I hope I can make this more of a daily routine. In a perfect world, there is no reason why I shouldn't already be doing these daily chores and for now this is my resolution!</span>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-57097255338436806312011-01-06T18:42:00.004-06:002011-01-07T08:22:35.024-06:00Thousands of Millions? You Say....<div style="text-align: center;">I wanted to make some changes on my blog and one of those changes was the name of my blog. I feel like I am in a new season in my life these days and I am so blessed to be here! Last year, when we chose for me to stay home with Ella, I joined a group called MOPS(Mothers of Preschoolers). I decided to become part of this group to meet people in my area. Even though I had lived here for 5 yrs, I worked in a different town and had no connections right here. It has been an amazing opportunity! I have met some wonderful Mothers and friends. This year I was asked to take a leadership role in our Group. One of our Mommies made a difficult decision to go back to work and I was asked to fulfill her "Publicity" position. This turned out to be one of those answered prayers, that maybe you didn't want answered... or was to shy to volunteer to do something like this on my own. Publicity and I go hand in hand and God knew that this would be a great area for me to give and to grow! Even though I had a full plate, I accepted the offer and have been blessed so many times over.<br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGx6IQnFFxRXMGcwzrRWKIYFMIxztuB4YZ7rwcOxSWgMqPM8UBYj5l87Sni6o79S_EuSYzS-a0PsGfJabf3rIs-ZtRWBW1CLyt8exos7tFRNIXw0r7kwBhD7cpUwbYEeLHciI5wGKNrAWz/s1600/mommies.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 130px; height: 98px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGx6IQnFFxRXMGcwzrRWKIYFMIxztuB4YZ7rwcOxSWgMqPM8UBYj5l87Sni6o79S_EuSYzS-a0PsGfJabf3rIs-ZtRWBW1CLyt8exos7tFRNIXw0r7kwBhD7cpUwbYEeLHciI5wGKNrAWz/s200/mommies.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5559247101829047122" border="0" /></a><span style="font-style: italic;">(Some of my MOPS friends)</span><br /><br />I have recently began a daily devotional, given to me by my dear friend and MOPS Director. On Day 2, it talked about Rebekah and how she was told in Genesis 24:60 to "be thou the Mother of thousands of millions..." Obviously Rebekah did not mother that many children, but she did mother two incredible children that influenced many. As a Mother of young children, I really want to share God's promises with my little ones and pray that my children will go on to influence <span style="font-style: italic;">thousands of millions</span>. I can't imagine any great blessing in a Mother's life!<br /><br />When I read this story, I knew that it was going to be one that would stay in my heart for a long time. As I grow spiritually, I want my children and even my husband to grow as well. This new season in my life is a struggle at times, but it is up to me and my actions to make sure that my children live and learn to be a follower of Jesus Christ. So through our life and through our actions, I hope that some day we will influence <span style="font-style: italic;">thousands of millions...</span> </div>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-79658279072564906732011-01-05T16:09:00.004-06:002011-01-05T18:07:40.234-06:00What's That U Say...<div style="text-align: center;">You've missed me ;-) Well I've missed you too!<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Now that school is over for me for a while, I am needing an outlet. So it occurred to me that Once Upon a Time.... I had a blog! What better way to share the exciting happenings of my life. Let me take you back a minute; last time I blogged, was about May...Mother's Day I believe. That was a hard year for us as a family, but boy did we have an incredible summer! We camped, we went to the beach, we went floating on the river and so on, It really was a great time for us. August comes around and we find ourselves trying for another baby. September hits us with a BOOM! Baby and School. 3 online classes and one sick Momma! Hello. September through November were rough. December rolls around, school is almost out, Momma's feeling good, Daddy is happier with Momma, Ella is being a trooper and we find out that a little BOY will be joining us around the end of April. You still with me...<br /><br />So I'm thankful last semester is over and decided to not go back for the Spring Semester due to baby and all. Holidays have come and gone and it seems as if I'm playing the waiting game. Not really, we have a lot to keep us busy! So let me show how big our little Ella has gotten:<br /><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;">Christmas Eve<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijsjPGBwM79qA5pvHUQodRiqVo5i-RyDtFJxsQUCq0vWbcNSwPfkgjQMEHpfgrzgdfFxOsFZhwC_w-asaYGFhjQgtvxDVonSxu2c9_klD8lqXhzbJ2KkKQsPXvU6Y08ddZFnjnNWtS1xfI/s1600/014.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijsjPGBwM79qA5pvHUQodRiqVo5i-RyDtFJxsQUCq0vWbcNSwPfkgjQMEHpfgrzgdfFxOsFZhwC_w-asaYGFhjQgtvxDVonSxu2c9_klD8lqXhzbJ2KkKQsPXvU6Y08ddZFnjnNWtS1xfI/s200/014.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558829354579805538" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;"><br />Christmas at Gramma & Pop's!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifqblqtXwy6DSyFLw_qQf52sZzJgi9W2XhYw2OeDGG2yqslt5C1EpvzCbrw-DI3mURP1_h8xym0HMOOEpzjufHh6fzCVVPYajjQgaZb_cXuPMC7nRdTTQJrnJdInG9tqrcHgWenrMLcEG2/s1600/018.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifqblqtXwy6DSyFLw_qQf52sZzJgi9W2XhYw2OeDGG2yqslt5C1EpvzCbrw-DI3mURP1_h8xym0HMOOEpzjufHh6fzCVVPYajjQgaZb_cXuPMC7nRdTTQJrnJdInG9tqrcHgWenrMLcEG2/s200/018.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558829351116154226" border="0" /></a><br />She had a wonderful Christmas with all of her Grandparents!<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiotc5nWhgpLDA-r_7LalObXUqLEDqoqvf7o_bVke-in-EOZJcmwn1NS7kvKGmqr-SGvx5Ww_t2WPlym6syH5kZgjyutkbevdwIZ9_H1nysDuQIIPgVRLc2aamUWZmMRpySaDQrdMxH4tj2/s1600/020.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 150px; height: 200px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiotc5nWhgpLDA-r_7LalObXUqLEDqoqvf7o_bVke-in-EOZJcmwn1NS7kvKGmqr-SGvx5Ww_t2WPlym6syH5kZgjyutkbevdwIZ9_H1nysDuQIIPgVRLc2aamUWZmMRpySaDQrdMxH4tj2/s200/020.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558829344637260466" border="0" /></a><br />Excited to open presents...<br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyfiT-bAF7WSbQRTzoPxaI8KECrY_WBnHFw0lUeUEjOSxCH6K3G2x2kxzGl8dqfe6M_QZgQGTxQWY-mr4ctf5zMUtBGvKfAy9liCZcrvF2KzF7ZrZP4WKjlIl_HeGigovpx_-3LpZpuPeE/s1600/022.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyfiT-bAF7WSbQRTzoPxaI8KECrY_WBnHFw0lUeUEjOSxCH6K3G2x2kxzGl8dqfe6M_QZgQGTxQWY-mr4ctf5zMUtBGvKfAy9liCZcrvF2KzF7ZrZP4WKjlIl_HeGigovpx_-3LpZpuPeE/s200/022.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558829342467491250" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">So glad to see you again and I hope you will come back ;-) I love blogging and expressing my thoughts! Now I'd like to leave you with a little "Eye Candy!" <br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-style: italic;">Ella (24 weeks)</span><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbBHJBqC3MyfM2V12dtbnAQyI3cAu7PXv9ywFB49PfCp3vjqZGteD5_xppZTbwnWZLSO5z_ugnjeeIqfVU18PuEEl_Nveyj62BdWaJmUdTIr0h3FnhxR_x7ORmQPKzdDel0e_YY3Ncxaqy/s1600/belly.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhbBHJBqC3MyfM2V12dtbnAQyI3cAu7PXv9ywFB49PfCp3vjqZGteD5_xppZTbwnWZLSO5z_ugnjeeIqfVU18PuEEl_Nveyj62BdWaJmUdTIr0h3FnhxR_x7ORmQPKzdDel0e_YY3Ncxaqy/s200/belly.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558856285935768466" border="0" /></a><br /></div>Big Momma's in the House! I'm definitely bigger then I was with Ella. Wow! Don't judge...hehehe There are a lot of round things in this picture... Can you spot all 3 of them?<span style="font-style: italic;"><br /><br />Ethan (24 weeks)</span><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKn8vAYc3IF3D-ZzIw26gRyo8PBt9mO31eUgBN9NRYszFENRTtfWRw39HUf_NyP_LACelAVY2m4m8NpykDSadbGI6uYBoFFn2xQthKorvwb8UQ-nmp8t8R0fOVw5gM4musmqnYdXj3FLvP/s1600/024.JPG"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 200px; height: 150px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKn8vAYc3IF3D-ZzIw26gRyo8PBt9mO31eUgBN9NRYszFENRTtfWRw39HUf_NyP_LACelAVY2m4m8NpykDSadbGI6uYBoFFn2xQthKorvwb8UQ-nmp8t8R0fOVw5gM4musmqnYdXj3FLvP/s200/024.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5558856283875876258" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjP2IUmz3AzflQWIL3-gW5TdRimu5ywOcpxNcqye2GQy7ytcUR07QwjEKbbQVzmu8O4BMo7ECkaISUqnCesllcCPFo5VoW7HUw74q2FHyL-VjyGFiGXFdEOoXTFMSt1rHVmt7d-3nxBsoez/s1600/024.JPG">(my ball, my belly and my booty)</a><br /><br />Now which ones Bigger? Ha! Please don't answer that!<br /></div>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-87102199279993132982010-11-22T13:04:00.002-06:002010-11-22T13:13:03.572-06:00Overwhelmed by Life!So it's been a while...<br /><br />I still read your blogs, just not every day. The Holidays are coming up and bloggers get 50 free photo cards from Shutterfly, which has totally got me thinking about my own blog and where my life has been hiding.<br /><br />I didn't blog much after last January. My head was in a whirl. Everything was all good and fine but my time was consumed with my bike riding and Ella and having an amazing summer, in which we did! By the end of the summer I was pregnant again :-) already enrolled in 3 online classes and feeling pretty crumby! The past four and a half months have been a blur... I have barely kept my head above water, but I'm still here and the semester is almost over and the baby and Big Sister Ella are doing great, in fact we find out if baby is a he/she on December 7th! I'm so thankful for so many blessings. <br /><br />but, Life is still good ;-)Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-55585328254638651042010-05-09T22:08:00.002-05:002010-05-09T22:26:54.864-05:00A Beautiful Day....<div align="center"><em><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">for Me and my Moms!</span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"></span></em> </div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">I just wanted to share how lucky I am to have such beautiful and amazing role models(Mothers) in my life. Today I was blessed. Every day I am blessed. My Mothers, my sister(s), my friends are chosen to take on the task of being Mothers. It is a hard task, but it is incredibly rewarding. </span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"></span></em> </div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">God has chosen these people to be a part of my life, whether you are a Grandmother, a Mother, a soon-to-be Mother or one day dreams of being a Mother...You have been placed in my life to influence me and support me and I thank you! </span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"></span></em> </div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">I can't help but think of my little baby in heaven today. I have tried not to, but I have. I guess it's just something a Mother would do. Ella did something tonight that she rarely ever does...She fell asleep in my arms. God knew I needed that. I needed my daughter to give me that for Mother's Day. She is amazing.</span></em></div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"></span></em> </div><div align="center"><em><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">Today was a beautiful day.</span></em></div>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-75224859542034159522010-04-26T07:52:00.006-05:002010-04-26T12:47:52.710-05:00Farmer in Training<div align="center"><em>So what do I post about...It's been a while!</em></div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center">We have been so busy. I have been working temporarily, t<em>wo days a week. </em>This makes our weeks fly by, I can't believe it is almost May! The weather is keeping us outside all day long, blowing bubbles, playing with sidewalk chalk, walking around the house endless amounts of time. We love it! We have also planted our garden. This year we did things a little different, we planted everything by seeds! Our garden may or may not produce but let me tell you some of those seeds are already<em> poking through!</em> I can't wait... I am not one to utilize my gardens the way it should be utilized. I have been known to let the veggies rot; I was working or I didn't have any groceries, etc. When actually I was just being lazy! This year is a new ball game. Since I am home, Jeramy has informed me that this is MY garden. </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464435638401925682" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 150px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 200px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg06N_uOqncfYxWw4_yugMyBcCB-fDwxeOajGkqPuJNabhEUTrEhOC1v2jwPyiL6NCd-0DQi4cd4nLvH_zGk4M68iE50YuCNS9OwnWPSv33NCVMfVBEjtkkInzpT1ER2b21lOdgay3x_GS_/s200/003.JPG" border="0" />So I better do good ;) But in all seriousness I have already began making changes in the way we eat. I am trying to buy fresh fruits and veggies and use them all and trying to get away from buying boxed foods and process foods. With the exception of Mac & Cheese, which is a staple at our house per the youngin'! </div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center">On another note... Me and my Giant are off to a great start! </div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"></div><div align="center"><img id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5464435628799448882" style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN: 0px auto 10px; WIDTH: 200px; CURSOR: hand; HEIGHT: 150px; TEXT-ALIGN: center" alt="" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeXea4sKZRPz-Y48737leCYw-poSQ0NmMrr6lPln9MAwmWJuXl_Ndi-knhq7HwBno-n2Kyl8ABfy2EmWKurxCUlqFp3RJKPSAQidSgy39GhsCTvRv_2begGtcWEPHsTCqJ1a-u9jg51miC/s200/3n73k43l45T75R15S99b61ddf0ff50f031c48.jpg" border="0" />I decided to join a team and ride Tour de Cure Chattanooga. This frightens me in so many ways, but I will have Kim by my side to encourage me and I will have God to strengthen me...I can't go wrong there! I have been trying to get in some longer rides to prepare for my 25-30 miles on May 15. Tour de Cure is a cycling event across the states geared to support Diabetes. There is $150.00 minimal fundraising goal in order to ride and anything above and beyond is just more $$ for the American Diabetes Association. I think it's a good cause don't you? It seems to me that Diabetes is becoming just one of those things we, as Americans, get... Well it shouldn't be! It's deadly. Some people can't help but have this disease due to genetics, but the fact that young children are being diagnosed daily is sad, brings me back to why I can't wait for my garden! Anyway off of my soap box now... If you feel like you would like to donate to ADA and my ride you can go to <a href="http://main.diabetes.org/site/TR/TourdeCure/TDC198158030?px=5846538&pg=personal&fr_id=6863&et=0rVevKX9nB_8kipTpQlk3A..&s_tafId=292529">My Tour de Cure Web page</a> and make your donation.</div><div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center">I also want to add that I love it when I see answered prayers! Lately I have seen a lot... Sure does confirm the fact the he is a living God!</div>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-22050653052367849462010-03-26T09:19:00.003-05:002010-03-26T10:58:49.982-05:00How Do You Give?<div align="center">Lately I have had a heavy heart. My life has been tight and we, has a family, have had many changes! But I have felt that I need to be a better giver. So many people give to me so freely and how do I return the favor? I know that it doesn't have to be to them, but just giving in general, the way God intended us to give.</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">My friend Jody gave birth to a beautiful baby boy, <a href="http://diannafamily.blogspot.com/">Will</a>, at 29 weeks and I am so happy to say that after a long stay in the Vanderbilt NICU, baby Will is home with his Mommy and Daddy. Jody and Chris started a <a href="http://diannafamily.blogspot.com/">blog</a> after Will's birth. They are such an inspiration and a testament of God's strength! I haven't met Will yet, but I feel like I know him and love him so much already!</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">When Will was born his Doctors discovered that he has a Congenital Heart Defect (CHD). What this means for Will is that he will have to undergo heart surgery. Will is now almost 5 months old and the time for his surgery is so near and Jody and Chris have so humbly asked their family and friends to donate blood "<a href="http://diannafamily.blogspot.com/">In Honor of Will</a>" and his open heart surgery. A service that we should all do more often and since Jody will be donating her blood to Will, she asked if we could all do the same! It Saves Lives!</div><div align="center"> </div><div align="center">This REALLY touched me and opened my heart! I want to give. I want to give "In Honor of Will." I want to give to honor God. So for the very first time, I GAVE BLOOD. Through out the day I prayed for Will and I prayed for me. And I thanked God for this opportunity. It was so easy. I have a feeling I will be back in 65 days. And each time I will be reminded of Will and his journey of life and I will thank God for him and his parents and I will give of myself whenever necessary. So if you haven't given blood lately or even at all, like me...I challenge you! If you are able, give blood "In Honor of Will" or someone else you know! I am honored to do this for such a precious little boy!<br /></div><div align="center"></div><p align="center"><br /> </p>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8965821393939120510.post-50568666366033926522010-02-24T09:14:00.003-06:002010-02-24T09:26:55.493-06:00Unexpected Surprise...<div align="center"><br /></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><em>Last night around 7:45pm we put Ella to bed. We did our usual routine books, pray, kisses... She was very tired so it did not surprise me that she was so quiet and went right to sleep.</em></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><em></em></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><em>I head to the living room to talk to my girlfriend on the phone and Jeramy heads to the computer. Around 8:30 I get off the phone, give kisses to Jeramy and head to bed.</em></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><em></em></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><em>As I approach the end of the hall way, Ella's door is open just slightly. "Hmmm, maybe she got up?" I thought. As I turn into my bedroom, I find the sweetest most peaceful sleeping beauty I have ever seen, tucked tightly into Mommy and Daddy's bed.</em></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><em></em></span></div><div align="center"><span style="font-family:trebuchet ms;"><em>Heart Breaker!</em></span></div>Bethanyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03292467089829990993noreply@blogger.com1