Christmas Tradition

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

They are so easy. I don't make the bread, although I will try sometime...I just get the Rhodes(I think thats the brand) frozen white bread loaves. It comes with 3. Then I knead the dough out...and rolling pin it...till its as flat as I can get it. Then you put butter then brown sugar and cinnamon...then roll and slice! One loaf makes about 16 rolls, so I use half and freeze the other half(un-sliced) Pictured above, is them the night before...before they rose....

Next morning, this is what you get...pop them in the oven for about 12-15 mins..

Make icing with milk and powdered sugar...

Below: and this is what you get! Yummy cheap rolls!

Family Pictures

Here are most of our family pictures that my friend Holly did for us in November. We were blessed to have a beautiful day outside..as it didn't look too promising when we woke up that morning. I think they turned out pretty well if I don't say so myself. Definatly going to be printing a family one to frame...its our first of the 3 of us! (yes we wanted to try it with the dogs too, but since my car was/is broken we all wouldn't fit in Nicks little fiat, haha. \

Enjoy!

Merry CHRISTmas!

I honestly can't believe that today is Christmas 2010. This year has flown by drastically fast, and I assume it's because we had a baby this year. Everyone says, time flies when you have kids! No joke there.

Anywho, we had a great Christmas. And its not over yet...Last night we went to our Christmas Eve service at church. It was very cozy there in the candlelight and fireside. Our good friends John and Terri and their son Tucker came too. That was nice, especially since we hadn't seen them in forever it seemed! Then when we got home, we opened our stockings. Nick got Monopoly Deal and a snowman ornament that says Dad 2010-from Brynlee of course. Brynlee got bath toys and a cool teether that vibrates when you bite it, she loves that. I got a HUGE Toblerone candy bar-that Nick is helping me eat...wonder why he got that?! Haha. And some cute pj pants...yes he stuffed them in my stocking haha!

This morning once we had homemade cinnoman rolls -pics in another post!- and then we got ready to open presents. We recorded the whole thing this year. Thats what my parents used to do for my grandparents, so we decided to do it as well. Grandparents don't mind watching a boring video of the kids opening presents, lol. Brynlee was so so about the presents part at first then she realized the outcome I think and really started ripping the paper off! Of course, loving the paper! She got from us a gloworm doll and a kitchen/frig toy. From Mimi & Nana and Papa she got a push toy-here comes the walking!- some cute tights, socks a keepsake for her first tooth and lock of hair, and a snail toy. From Grandpa and Aunt Kylie she got a total of 8 books! And a farmhouse singing toy, fun fun! She got My Pal Violet and a water baby from Holly too. I think she made out pretty good!

Later tonight I believe we are going over to our friends house to play some games, they got some games for Christmas and so did Nick so here we come. Thats of course, after we eat the mouthwatering BBQ ribs that are roasting in the crock pot as we speak!

Don't forget the REAL reason for this season. Jesus Christ!

God Bless and Merry CHRISTmas from our family to yours!

Just a Wife and Mother.....

Whoa its been a bit since I last posted. This post is going to be about something that has been on my heart...not necessarily what I'm struggling with. Definatly on my mind in this day and age though.

We've been doing this study in our Ladies group at church. Lies Women Believe and the Truth that Sets Them Free, by Nancy Leigh DeMoss. Its a great study so far. The part that has really hit me is the chapter about Lies Women Believe About Priorities. One lie stuck out, A Career outside the home is more valuable and fulfilling then being a wife and a mother.

Now don't get me wrong, I LOVE being a wife and mother and know that that is what I am called to be. Sometimes however, in this world, I feel that I need to be more. Or people are like oh you just stay home huh. That bothers me. Then I start to think, well do I need to have a career?! My mind has gone back and forth and back and forth. Being over here, its been easy. Its hard to find a job thats worth the money, especially if you have kids, you will just make enough to pay a babysitter. I know that when we get back stateside in Feb..once we get settled and such, I will probably battle this monster again. I loved working in the hospital. I do miss it. Especially when my friend Holly comes over after she is done working...in her scrubs! Which I loved wearing! But after reading this lie. I have found a lot more peace in just being a wife and a mother.

Here are a few lines from this book:

..unintended consequences of this newfound freedom? Whoever expected we would have to live with such things as:

• pressure placed on women by their peers to "do more" than be "just a wife and mother"
• the status of a "homemaker" being devalued to something less then that of a serf
• millions of infants and toddlers being dropped off at day car centers before daylight and picked up after dark
• families that seldom sit down and have a regular meal together
• emotional and physical affairs being fanned by married women spending more quality time with men at work then they do with their own husbands
• women who don't have the time or energy to cultivate a close relationship with their children and who end up permanently estranged from their grown children
• children spending countless hours being entertained by videos, TV, video games, and computers
• inadequately supervised children becoming exposed to and luring into pornography, alcohol, drugs, sex, and violence
• elderly parents having to be put into institutions because their daughters and daughters in law are working full time and can't manage their care

Those are the ones that spoke to me and I know that not all those will effect all working moms.

Here's more:

In determining our priorities as Christian women, we must first ask: Why did God create women? What is His purpose and mission for our lives? The Word of God provides women of every generation and culture with the Truth about our created purpose and primary role and calling. When we embrace the Truth and establish our priorities and schedules around it, we experience true liberation.

In Genesis 2:18 we find the first and clearest statement of why God created women:

The Lord God said," It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a

helper suitable for him."

There you have it- God created the woman to be a helper to the man-to complete him, to be suited to his needs. She was made from man, made for man, and given as God's gift to the man.

The woman was uniquely designed and equipped-physiologically, emotionality, mentally, and spiritually-by her Creator to be a bearer and nurturer of life. In a mulitiude of ways, she was endowed with the ability to add life, beauty, richness, fullness, grace and joy to the family unit.

I really like how she put it in words to really understand. We are unique. I love that.

The Scripture is clear that a married woman's life and ministry are to be centered in her home. This is not to suggest that it is necessarily wrong for a wife and mother to have a job outside her home-unless that job in any way competes with or diminishes her effectiveness in fulfilling her primary calling at home. Further, it is important for a woman to evaluate their reason(s) for working outside their home and to identify any deception behind those reasons.

For example, it is widely assumed today that a family simply cannot make it without two incomes. It is true that one of the unfortunate by products of the feminist revolution is that our economy has become dependent on two-income families. However, that does not necessarily mean that families cannot survive on on income.

Here are some good things that come from a family that knows their calling. She mentions in her book that she has quite a few friends that have 5,6,7 or more kids and have only one income. She mentions its not easy and they might not have all the things this society dubs necessary today, but they have this:

• these families are content and have joy
• they have a better sense about values and the tings that really matter than do many two-income families
• they have learned how to pray and depend on God for everything from "daily bread" to college tuition
• they parents know where their children are and are able to monitor and direct their activities
• the parents and children have close, loving relationships with each other
• they are actively involved in serving others in practical ways that many families don't have time (or energy) to do when both parents are working outside the home.

She even has a quote from actress Katherine Hepburn:

I'm not sure any woman can successfully pursue a career and be a mother at the same time. The trouble with women today is that they want everything. But no one can have it all.

I thought that was interesting.

I love staying home with B. Yes there are days which I wish I could be gone all day and someone else can be with her. Then I get to thinking about it and its not worth it. If I HAD to work, someone else, in a daycare somewhere, would be raising my child. Thats my number one. God gave her to us to raise for Him. Not for a daycare to raise. I love being home when Nick gets home (especially in the Military life when the schedule can be one time this day and a total different time the next, if I worked, who knows when we'd see each other!)

OK thats all I have. I hope I didn't stir up too much. I know this is a topic that some think is hard. I just felt like blogging my thoughts on it so one day I can look back and see them and hope my sight has not been hindered.

Lovely Day

We had a very beautiful day this past Saturday. Actually, its been gorgeous since then! I am not complaining at all. Since it has been so wet and dreary for so long we decied a family walk/run was a must. So we headed out in this sunny weather. Granted, it was still cold out, but that sun on my face was awesome.

Of course the dogs loved being out and about. Kaci LOVES to run. As you can see above. She started running towards these horses and mules...and Nick whistled and here she comes..oh so fast. I love watching her run. Unfortunatly I didn't get a great pic of Kodi so oh well.

These mountains are by far going to be what I miss the most about this country. We can walk outside, and this is what we see. I love it. I am pretty sure Georgia won't be the same. Hehe. Saying that though, does not mean I am not super excited to go to Georgia though. I am very happy!

{[8 months}]....no way.

Here is my chunky monkey 8 month old! (her feet look huge in this pic, but really its the boots, cuz they are too big, she has tiny feet!)

*we are in size 3 diapers, but soon moving to cloth.

*she loves her morning whole wheat cereal. Even with out fruit mixed in!

* she can wear lots of 3-6m clothes still and certain 6-9m ones. (sleepers are huge though)

*she can wear size 1 shoes still, 2's are pretty large still.

*she's had-carrots, sweet potatos, green beans, peas, squash for her veggies and loves all-carrots and peas being on of the faves-peaches, pears, apricot, mixed berries and banana's, apples, bannanas, pineapple-for her fruit. She loves them all. On Thanksgiving I gave her a Turkey and Rice dinner-she loved then the other day Chicken and Noodle diner(both baby food) and she was good with that too.

*she's still not sure about bitter biscuits and cherrios.

* not crawling, but on all fours rocking and can get where she wants!

*loves to stand and hold onto the couch and whatever else she can.

*will walk with your holding her hands.

She is growing way to fast, I love it but I don't at the same time! Its so neat to see the things she learns everyday, but sooner then I know it, she'll be driving a car...and going to college, and getting married..ok enough of that!

She likes to play games too. She has stackable cups, we stack them, wait and then she knocks them over. She likes to share her pacifier, putting in my mouth laughing and then taking it and putting it in hers. She's so silly. She loves to give high fives, and I am pretty sure she's waved a couple times. We are also teaching her certain sign language signs. Still nothing to come about that, except I can sign food/eat without saying anything and she gets super excited. I know she is comprehending it! Its just a very repetitive thing for mommy to do! And to remember to do! Oh and she also put her hands together once to pray, we pray before we eat and I usually hold her hands together, one day she didn't let me so I just did it in front of her and opened and she was trying to! Oh the moments a mom is proud of! Hehe.

I think thats the update we have today!

Happy 8 months Baby Girl!

We're making the switch!

To....

cloth diapers!



Yes you read that right, I am going green I guess you can say. I'm not one to do the whole, green thing, but this will really help our pocket book, especially when we move to the states! I am very excited. It will be tough at first, to get all used to it but I think it will be totally worth it.

This has been on my mind for a few months now and I finally got up the nerve to order and test and then say yes! Nick is on board, but he's kinda like, whatever at this point. We honeslty haven't had to buy many diapers at all since B was born. At my shower we recieved a wide variety of sizes and then my friend Tiffany has a son that is older than B and she always gives me his un-used, too small diapers. So I think that Nick doesn't realize how much diapers acutally are. We have a pack and a half left, so I decided this is a great time to switch. We should have enough left of the disposables to get us by before the cloth ones come in the mail.

And, aren't they just the cutest?! We only have this one, its red. But in my order we're getting some cute prints along with colors and whites. So I am pretty excited to start this new form of diapering! And to think, we'll never have to buy diapers again....for any more babies to come as well! I haven't thought much about reusable wipes just yet. I think I'm going to get the hang of the dipes before I switch from disposable wipes just yet. Hehe. I just wanted to share my excited, and a few pics of my chunky bottom, cloth diapered cutie!

Thanksgiving & Salzburg

Our Thanksgiving was great. We hosted it at our house with some friends. Not a lot of people but just enough. We all pitched in for the food. Nick did the turkey, ham and yams. I did cherry pie, pumpkin spice pudding pie, lemon-cranberry cookies, and oatmeal raisin cinnamon chip cookies. Then all our guests brought something to share. Everything was so yummy and I felt so fat after we ate! After dinner we just hung out, played PIT, and then some of the guys played Call of Duty and Guitar Hero. It was a good end to our Thanksgivings in Italy. Next year is excited, since we'll be stateside and most likely be with some family!

The day after Thanksgiving, we didn't do the norm-Black Friday. We chose to drive to Salzburg Austria for their Christmas Market. We went with the Heisner's. We rented a car, since neither of us have a truly reliable one at the moment. Then we took off at 6a. We arrived in Salzburg at 10a. I only remember the time because we stopped at McDonalds when we got there and wanted lunch and they were still serving breakfast till 1030, lol. Isn't is sad that one of the major highlights of our adventures is McDonalds! Its true though. We don't have them here like we do in the states. So we only get McDonalds when we're traveling. Most people are like, wow why wouldn't you eat at a good restaurant and what not. Well, we live in Italy so we can easily eat Italian whenever. So when we travel, we take the easy road, McDonalds. We know what they have, its fast, cheaper then sitting down in a restaurant most times, and a major plus...they have a potty you don't have to pay for!

So we waited for lunch to start, ordered and ate. Let Brynlee stretch out and play in the booth some, before getting back in the car seat. It started to snow pretty good while we were eating. We then headed out to find parking for the market. Walked to the market and started browsing. It was so neat all the decorations and such. Made you really feel in the Holiday mood! The snow really helped that too!

Once we browsed we went back to the stands we wanted to purchase things from. I got a sign with a moose on it with some pine trees that says Merry Christmas in German. I wanted one in Italian but couldn't find one. Thats my favorite purchase. I love moose. I'll have to post a pic with the other thing I got, because I don't know what its called or how to explain it. Hehe.

After we were done with the shopping we headed back to the car so we could go see the Maribel Gardens. I've seen pictures of them in the summer and they are gorgeous, and they were still very pretty with all the snow on them. I'm a sucker for snow though. We walked around there for a bit then decided we'd head home.

So we decided, once again, we should eat before getting in the car( in Europe, there aren't stops with fast food places everywhere along the interstate like there is stateside) So McDonald's it was! We ate then headed out back to Italy.

This is where the fun begins. About 2 hours into our drive....while it was snowing and dark of course....Holly and I thought we started to slide on a sheet of ice, when really what happened was our front passenger tire blew out entirely. Oh boy did Nick do a great job of keeping that car on the road and get it to the side. We all got out, and saw the tire. Or the rim. Since there was no more tire. Well it was a rental, so we assumed there was a spare. There was, but only a donut. Oh, we still had over 200miles to go. When a donut is only suppose to travel 50miles. Kinda made Holly and I worry the rest of the trip. Not to mention, you can't drive faster than 30 mph on a donut....that made for a long 200+ miles!

Finally we made it home. The rental place didn't make us pay anything, so that was good. All in all, it was a trip to remember for sure! Ohhh the memories!

Day 29 & 30

In the past month, what have you learned.

Um. Lets see. I have learned that when you go to the gym/track all the time...and are in great shape...and then all of a sudden your car breaks and you have to stop going...you feel really lazy! I hate it. I had so much energy when I was working out 4ish times a week. I miss it so much. I learned that exercise does a body good. Haha. I mean I knew that before, but I was so into it and now I'm not. I can totally see and feel the difference. Thats what I learned lately.

Your favorite song.

I honestly don't have a favorite song. I love a lot of songs!

Day 28

A picture of you last year and this year and how you've changed.

Well, last year around this time, I was 20 weeks pregnant with Brynlee. So I've physically changed quite a bit! It was just Nick and I and our fur babies at that time. We were preparing for our family expanding. That was pretty much all we were focused on this time last year.

This year, we have a beautiful baby girl in our lives. All in all we're the same, except we have her. And wouldn't give anything to go back and be just us!

Brynlee-7months

Day 27

Why are you doing this 30 day challenge?

Um, I thought it would be a little change to the random posts I usually post and kinda fun. It has been for the most part, some days have been a little dumb, but other than that, I've enjoyed it! Some of them get you thinking!

Day 26

What I think about my friends.

Well honestly, I love my friends. I do have some closer then others yes, but if I call you my friend, you are special to me in one way or another. I love having great friends and don't take the word lightly. A friend is someone you can count on, in any circumstance, and know that whatever it may be they aren't going to judge you or think differently of you. I have seen this quote or saying before...it goes something like...A great friend likes you even after know you and your faults. I know thats not the exact saying, but its similar. I love it. Its so true. Noones perfect so you just gotta take it. I miss the very few friends I had in the states. Now I don't say that because I wish I had more. I don't. I'd rather a few great friends then tons of just friends that I really don't know much.

Shutterfly Promo: Bloggers get 50 free cards!

I love shutterfly products, all of them. I especially love their holiday cards. Any cards they have to offer really. This year's 2010 designs are pretty great. I love how in a lot of the cards you can choose between one photo or three or sometimes even six! Pictures are worth a million words and shutterfly knows how to do holiday cards with lots of picture opportunities! Also they have some religious ones, and very modern looking ones, to very traditional ones. Lots and lots of options. They also have the option to do folded greeting cards or the flat photo ones in either 4x8 or 5x7. I love how in the folded greeting cards you can put an extra picture inside the card in most cards! Its a bonus! I plan on doing a folded greeting card this year I believe. I am not that good of a decision maker when it comes to thousands of beautiful options! I am super excited to do my cards this year, its one of my favorite things about the holidays!


Here are a few of my favorite cards this year, but I'm not giving away which one I might use!
This One
& This One
&This One

Thats just a few of course, I could go on and on and on...
Here are a few of my favorite products they offer too!
Their calendars..especially their new designs!
Luggage Tags..for us who travel lots! I have these with my dogs on them.

The of course, my all time favorite, as well as many others out there..the beloved Photo Book!
I have 9 of them from our wedding, to summers in Italy to our first borns birth! I can't get enough of them!

If you want to join in on this awesome promotion, go HERE!

Crunchy Whole-Grain Chicken Bites

So, all I can say is YUMMMY! These were very easy and yet super good. I am always hesitant to try new things, but this one I took a chance and will definatly be making it again! Not so into the slaw, but thats just me. I'll make the chicken and probably the sauce without the slaw next time.

This is actually a Pampered Chef recipe. If you are interested in it. Let me know, I just don't feel the need to post the ingredients and details right now, plus I have a baby that needs to go down for a nap. These however did remind me of a resaurant's crunchy chicken bites!

Day 25

What you will find in my bag.

Easy: Diapers. Wipes. PJs. Gas drops. Burp cloth. Bib. Hand sanitizer. Sanitizing wipes. Dirty diaper baggies. Fingernail clippers. Nose sucker. 2/3 toys. Pacifiers. Formula. Bottle. Chapstick. Camera. Wallet.

That sums it up. I must say I miss carrying a purse! I just got a new one actually and have yet to use it. I don't see the point in carrying a diaper bag and a purse. Thats me though.

Day 24

A letter to your parents

Honestly, I don't think I'm gonna write it here, not that I have anything to hide as to what I'd say, but I think I just feel like I am gonna send them a letter, like I would on here..but not for the world to see. Mmkay.

Day 22 & Day 23

What makes me different for everyone else?

This is kinda a weird question. I don't like talking about myself. Facts; thats easy. This...not so much. Lets see. I think I'm different from a lot of people because I really do care. I care if I hurt you with my words or lack thereof. I care if my daughter is around certain people with bad language; even at this young of an age. I don't want that. I'd rather do something for you then you do something for me. I like doing that. I like giving. Also, I am a Christian. So I am suppose to be different then all others, unbelievers that is. I have a faith that, unfortunatly, a lot of people can't say they have. I try to do God's will. I know, I don't always do the right thing, I do try though. I try to be the light and show Jesus through me. I think thats all really. Oh, one more: I am a very positive person. I think very little negative thoughts and I think that really helps me be a happy, uplifting person I should be!

Something I crave for often.

Hm. First thing I think of is pregnancy cravings, which I didn't even have really. I had maybe 2 and it wasn't over and over. So nevermind there. I crave people interaction. When I haven't seen or been around anyone, besides Brynlee and Nick, I want to be around people, even if we just walk around the BX and talk to noone. Haha. I also crave the things from the U.S. of A. I know, we take it for granted. So maybe I don't crave it. I just miss it a lot. Such as, late night runs to Wal-mart for ice cream. (shoppette here closes at 11.with not many options) When you realize you are very low on gas and have to pick someone up from the airport at dawn, you don't have to worry you won't be able to fill up. (gas stations here close at like 7p-ish and don't usually open till 8a-maybe-and we can only go to two brands) So yes. Ohhh I've got a good one. As of right now, I crave a real house with non-cement walls so I can decorate and redecorate and not worry about the walls crumbling. I crave a yard, for my dogs and soon Brynlee to run around in. I crave Christmas time feeling. And cannot wait for next Christmas because it will be stateside and feel much more Christmas-y. I am pretty sure. Ok, I've babbled enough about not much.

Day 21

A picture of something that makes you happy.

My dogs haven't been in many posts, and before Brynlee they were my life. They kept me company while Nick was at work. They love to cuddle. They love to play. I mean they are always there for me. Although I want to strangle Kodi sometimes, I could not get rid of him by any means! Part of it was because he was set in his ways when we got him. He was 15m old. He has gotten 110% better from the first weeks we had him though! Kaci is a good girl. We have had her since she was born, literally. She was born next door, so it was easy to see and play with her from day one. Kodi is actually her dad. Now of course, since they know no different, we call them brother and sister. There ya go, my dogs make me happy!

Day 20

Someone you see yourself marrying/being with in the future or about your spouse.

Well, since I am married already, and don't plan on getting married again, I will talk about my wonderful husband for a bit. Hehe.

We've known each other since 2003. We met when we both worked at the movie theatre(first job) and started dating in Aug of 2004. Nick asked me to marry him on Christmas day 2005. We had a pretty long engagement, and I can't even tell you why. It wasn't intentional, probably because we didn't really have much means of supporting ourselves..haha..what would be the point of getting married if we still had to live at home!? Anywho..we got married in May 2007. Coming up on 4 years ago, whew! We have a gorgeous daughter, born April 1,2010. We plan on having one more...who knows when. Nick is in the Air Force and we've called Italy our home for the last (almost) 3 years. We just got our assignment to move to Moody AFB in Georgia. We are pretty excited, but yet nervous. Italy was our first home together...(he left for Basic a month after being married, gone for 6m then we moved to Italy) so it will be sad to leave. Its the life. Nick is a great husband and daddy. Brynlee is so in love with him...and he always is saying how pretty she is and adorable and kisses her and plays with her when he gets home. I love watching them together. Oh, I'm actually older then Nick. By 11 months. Haha. He graduated a year later then me, so when we started dating I had already graduated and he was starting his Senior year of HS. Yeah yeah. Now that this is all mumble jumbled together and such, I'm done. I love my husband more than words can express, 'nuff said.

Day 19

Nicknames you have and why you have them.

Well I don't have many. Lets see, my dad calls me Tiffy, always has. My mom calls me Doll or Dolly..to this day lol. Tiff-people that I don't even know well call me that...its an obvious one though. I think thats really it. Besides the pet names Nick calls me. Hehe.

Awe

Here is a video of Brynlee while we were at my mom's & nana and papa's house in Sept/Oct. This was the first couple times she did this. For a long while we couldn't get her to do it again, but just this week she started doing it again! Nick was very excited since he didn't get to see her in person do this and now she does!

Day 18

Plans/dreams/goals I have.

Hmm. I'd like to take some photography classes to boost my confidence and ability. Also to learn the ins and outs of my camera better. And possibly a couple Photoshop ones as well. One day I would love to open my own photography buisness. It'd be perfect to be able to do what I love to do and stay home with the kid(s). That is my number one goal in life though, to stay home and raise our children. I have always thought and hoped to be a stay at home mommy, and now that I am blessed to be able to do so, I am forever grateful. So, to sum it up; be the best wife I can be, the worlds greatest mommy, then comes my photo stuff. Granted, the first two are going to take up a lifetime to fullfill. Fine by me, in the mean time, I hope I can accomplish the photography classes and possibly buisness in the end.

Day 17

Someone you'd want to trade lives with for a day and why.

This one's tough. Because I love my life and wouldn't trade it for anything. I think I'm gonna go with the Queen of England. She gets lots of respect and is known everywhere. Hey its just a day, I could do it!

Day 16

Another picture of yourself.

This is at my dad's house this past September. My dad and I were about to go on a motorcycle ride. I miss those! Dad and I used to go on rides a lot when I lived at home still.

Day 15

Put your ipod on shuffle and the first 10 songs that play.

-I Got You: Third Day

-When You Got a Good Thing: Lady Antebellum

-Mighty is the Power of the Cross: Chris Tomlin

-Unapologize: Carrie Underwood

-Slow Fade: Casting Crowns

-Fearless: Taylor Swift

-Independance Day: Martina McBride

-She's Country: Jason Aldean

-Love Song: Third Day

-All Bow Down: Chris Tomlin

Yeah its not much of a variety. I did however, just have to erase my whole ipod and get new music. So I don't have a ton, but its all my favorites. Worship and Country. LOL. Thats me!

Day 14

A picture of you and your family

Top one is our little family now. Minus the puppies.

(we have yet to get one of all 5 of us)

Technically, the bottom one is of all 5 of us, Brynlee is in my belly! That was Winter of 2009.

Day 13

A letter to someone that has hurt you recently.

I've opted out of this one. For two reasons. One, noone has really hurt me lately, and two, its not the worlds buisness to know about it anywho!

Another month gone by...

**Updated**

*7 months old*

What Miss Brynlee has been up to:

*She is 16 pounds and 26 inches.
She absotlutely loves to talk and sing.
She still wears size 2 diapers.
She loves to stand, and stands holding things, doesn't pull up herself though.
She can wear lots of different size clothes. Ranging from 0-3/3-6/6-9.
She rolls everywhere.
She scoots somehow, lol.
She eats cereal in the morning and loves it (with applesauce)
She has eaten sweet potatos, sweet carrots, avacado, mashed potatos, and pears.(baby food)
Doesn't care for avacado and mashed potatos (those were actually NOT baby food)
She loves apples in her teether feeder.
She adores her puppies, they walk in the room and she smiles so big.
Everything goes in her mouth.
Her first tooth has made its breakthrough. Still hard to see, but you can feel it.
Takes 4 naps a day still. Which Mama loves! hehe.
She is a people watcher, just like her parents.
Still sleeps through the night. Again, mama loves that too!

I love her so much and love seeing all the things she learns everyday. She is so smart and can make a bad day good with just her big gummy smile. I am sad to see her grow because I love how she's my baby, but can't wait to see the little lady she turns into. Love you B!

Day 12

How I found out about Blogger and why I made one.

I actually remember reading my friend Arlene's blog for awhile before I decided to make one. I made a Photography one first, then ended up making a family one. I love it for keeping in touch with the U.S. while we are here in Italy. I love blog hopping and being able to go back and see old posts and so on. I think its fun and I don't plan on getting rid of it anytime soon!

Home is where the Air Force sends us....

...and our new home is going to be...

Moody AFB

We are pretty excited! Neither of us has ever lived in the East Coast, so that will be a change in itself. I'm pretty excited that Brynlee will probably have some sort of southern accent, since she will be starting to talk when we move. We are leaving this gorgeous country of Italy in February. We have been so blessed to be able to live here and enjoy the perks of traveling around Europe. We are excited to get back to the states, to be closer to family. Or at least easier to get to family (no ocean to jump) but we will miss Aviano. Maybe not the base itself, but the area and most definatly the great friends we have made here. Ohhh the life of the military family.

Day 11

Another picture of you and your friends.

I chose my two best friends. Minus Nick of course, cuz he is my bestest.

This is Stephanie and I in July of 2009. It was our first time back to the states since we had moved to Italy and it was like we never left. I love her so much and miss her loads, can't wait to see whats in store for the both of us in 2011!

Then me and Holly. Here we are in Milano. It was a perfect little day trip. Her sister was here, my sister and mom were here. We had so much fun just us girls. I must admit...I am glad we move before she does...cause yeah...I wouldn't want to be here without her! Hopefully when they move in August we will be within driving distance so its not too bad, even better, the same base, maybe one day though!

Day 10

Songs you listen to when you are Happy, Sad, Bored, Hyped, Mad.

I honestly don't really have these. I LOVE listening to worship music. It puts you in a better mood no matter what mood you're in, even if you are in a great mood- for me it makes it even greater! No greater love than the love of Jesus! I also love country, but most of those songs nowadays make you all sad. Lol. There are some great ones, happy ones that is, out there I do love though. And the main reason I am not naming songs is, cause I honestly don't remember artist's names or song names haha!

Day 9

Something your proud of in the last few days.

Hmm. That's tough. I am proud that I've been pretty good at keeping up with this little challenge about me. Hehe. I am proud the Brynlee is liking her cereal and is figuring out how to use a spoon and so on. I am proud that my husband has been granted a free day for his work. Honestly, its really easy to just be proud of Brynlee. She is at the age where everyday she is practically learning something new. So, thats really all I've got!

Day 8

Short term goals for this month and why.

Well crazy as it may seem, October only has a few days left of it, so I am going to with November. So, in the month of November, we should know where our next home is going to be. So once we know that, (please be Monday!) I have plans to look up the area. Search homes, at least for ideas, search for churches that will be on our list to try. We will have goals to get a little more organized and get stuff out that we aren't taking that we won't need, such as our 220v Christmas lights, we will probably try to sell those before Christmas, we'd prob sell them better that way. Keeping enough for the tree, because B has to have a tree up her first Christmas. We plan on gettin our family pictures done this month. Going to play in the snow hopefully. Get the dogs used to their travel kennels(they use the wire ones now). Then depending on when or if we get hard copies of our orders in that month, we will start to do all the fun and exciting PSC things that are going to stress me out more than I wish to think. Lol. Prayers are appreciated!

Day 7

A picture of someone/something that has the biggest impact on you.

I had to go with my husband and my daughter. Because honestly, I can't think of life without either of them. When Nick and I decided to get married and join the AF and all that, I knew my life was going to change. Yes, I have never been a 'civlilan' but I've never been on this side of the road either. It was just him and I. Moving across the country, well not even across the country, across the world. This was a big impact on my life and yet one of the best. Being over here for our first few years of marriage has been wonderful. Just having to lean on each other. Makes us for a stronger couple. Then you add in our gorgeous daughter and life is perfect! hehe. I think back at when I was pregnant and how we'd talk about how things are gonna change but for the better not for the worst. Its so right! You're thinking changes. Your attitude changes. All that changes though, I wouldnt' change back, ever. Because I can't see life with out this little precious baby girl of mine.

Moments

I love days with lots of cuddling moments. She isn't as cuddly as she used to be, considering she'd rather play and such. The times she does get all cuddly, I can't help myself just to sit/lay with her till the moment passes. Lol.

Day 6

Favorite super hero and why.

I chose Batman. Honestly, I don't think he's much of a superhero since he technically has no superpowers....and maybe thats why I like him. I'm not a huge fan by no means, but I'm not a huge fan of any super hero really.

Also, this old school Batman and Robin show...I used to watch All. The. Time. It was one of my favorites when I was young. So that could be another reason I lean toward Batman.

Day 3, 4 & 5

Ok. So I slacked all weekend, and figured I'd do all the days I missed and today in one post!

A Picture if you and your friends.

Ok, so I have a couple more than just A picture with friends.

Above: Nick and I. He is my best friend. Forever and for always he will be. 'Nuff said.
This is my sister and I. She is more than a sister to me. Even though sometimes I just want to...well you know..most of us have sister's/brother's so you know what I'm trying to get to. I love her so much and couldnt' imagine not having her has a sister and an awesome friend!

This is my best friend Stephanie. I miss her loads. This last time I was in Az it was pretty awesome because we both have girls...well she has two. So it was lots of fun that I was in on the parenthood with her, hehe. (In pic: Brynlee/Stephanie/"Baby" Kylie/Me & Lux)

This is pretty much my Italy family. If it weren't for them, it'd be lonely here. Holly and I became friends before evening meeting, so we were destined, lol. I became friends with Megan through Holly actually. They have both been there and helped when I've needed. Especially with having a baby over here without my family! I love you both!(In pic:Kodi/Me/Kaci/Nick/Topher/Megan/Josh/Buddy/Cannon/Holly/Chris & Ace)

Of course I do have more friends. These ones I cherish deeply. Not that I don't cherish you! Its just different, hope that makes sense!

A habit you wish you didn't have.

Well I am pretty OCD about certain things. And it irritates Nick, but he's figured out that there is nothing he can do, so he just lives with it. Haha. I feel bad and sometimes wish I didn't do them. For instance. I have to put the groceries away, I can't let Nick because he won't put things where I want them. Haha. So we have a deal. He brings them in to the kitchen and I put them away. I have more, that is just one I can think of off the top of my head. Another habit would be overthinking things. That one just explains itself. Thats all I've got for this one!

A picture of somwhere you've been.

This one was tough, as we live in Italy and have been LOADs of awesome places. I chose this picture, its from Paris. In front of the Arc di Triomphe. I loved Paris. Not because the cliche' of ohhhh Paris... I loved it for more than that. We went in January. So the snow made it so much more pretty, I think. It was also Nick and I's last big trip before we became parents. We both loved it and would definatly go back. Maybe in another season to see it in a different light!

Day 2

The meaning behind your blog name.

Love Always. Hmm. I don't remember the real reason to why I chose this. So I will just elaborate what it means to me as of now.

I think that Love Always means...just that...to Love Always. Love is better then Hate. I can't stand the word Hate. Anywho. So yeah, I'll just go with that. Its always better to Love then to Hate.

Day 1

A recent picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself

This is a picture of me and my momma. On our way to the Lady Antebellum concert while I was in Arkansas.

The picture was the easy part, now for the 15 random facts:

1> Nick and I were both 20 when we got married. Although I am 11 months older so he just turned 20 and I was turning 21 in a month. Lol.

2> I have all my pre-reqs for Nursing school, then we got orders to Italy and I had to put that on hold( I don't do well online classes) After being here and being able to really think about it, I don't think I'll go back to that. I'd rather take some photography and photoshop classes and one day maybe have a little studio/be a freelance photographer professionally. That way I can still be at home with my kid(s) and make my own schedule and so on. And I really love photography. Always have, its just become more a part of me since being here.

3> I was born in Upper Heyford RAF England. Moved to Mt. Home AFB Idaho. Then Luke AFB Arizona. Then Misawa AB Japan. Then back to Luke. Then to Arkansas with my grandparents while my dad was in Korea. Then back to Luke. And now Aviano AB Italy.

4> The longest I've lived in one place was 5 years. Shortest was 2 years.

5> If I go on vacation, or somewhere remotely fun. I don't have as much fun if Nick isn't with me. He's my best friend and I hate not being with him. Yes, we're military so I know its gonna happen, but I can still voice that I love him so much I'd rather stay home with him then go on a trip without him.

6> I take a picture from every major vaction/city we've been to and blow it up bigger then an 11 by 14 at least and hang it in our room. Our next house we'll hopefully have somewhere better to display them so people can see them, lol. The biggest 2 we have are 20 by 30s. One from Florence and one from Venice. I love them!

7> My first children were Kodi and Kaci- our fur babies. Kodi will be 4 this month and Kaci was just 2 this past summer. Kaci is actually Kodi's daughter, although we call them brother and sister, since they don't know any different.

8> Speaking of my fur babies. Brynlee LOVES them and laughs at them a lot throughout our day!

9> I am very spoiled. Let me explain. What I mean is, I am very spoiled with Brynlee. She rarely cries.(My grandparents actually never heard her cry in the 10 days I was there) Can sit on the floor alone and be just fine playing. Sleeps 10-12 hrs a night. Takes 4 naps a day, shortest being about 45 mins, longest being 2 1/2 hours. Loves car rides. Loves to be in her stroller(worked out well when I was stuck in Baltimore!) She is definatly a very good baby. I'm hoping this keeps up....otherwise we're in for it!

10> I can watch the movie Because I said So...over and over again. Not sure why, its just one of those movies for me.

11> I've only owned 2 cars since I was 16 and still have the one I bought when I was 18. Getting ready to get a new one when we move to the states. By new, I mean new to me, not to the blacktop.

12> I'm scared of birds and fish. More so birds. Fish, only if I'm IN the water with them. Even though I still would love to go snorking in Hawaii, which I've done before and it was no fun...I think I can muster up the guts to do it with Nick...it would be so pretty! I can't stand birds in general. I've been picked, pecked, chased, and so on. So yeah. Venice is fun with all the pigeons....NOT!

13> I've never been a civilan. Air Force brat to Air Force wife! Its my life, I've never known anything else. I wouldn't change it for anything!

14> I am NOT a phone person. If I know you cool. To call companies or stores to order stuff, or even housing to fix our dryer door...I hate doing. I will wait till I absolutely have to or Nick can do it. Not sure why, could be cause I'm more on the shy side but who knows. I've gotten better with the years but still have room for improvement!

15> I am drawing a blank here...so we'll go with something not so interesting. My favorite holiday is Thanksgiving. I love the fall weather and colors and all the food! This year will be great because Brynlee will be able to eat with us! I'm pretty excited!

Me. For a little change.

I stole this from Mandee's blog and figured why not, like she said: most blog posts are about our little ones..so heres to 30 days about me! Here is the titles...or whatever you wanna call them. Hopefully I can keep up with this, as there has been past posts that I have said I was going to keep up with something and never did!
30 days of me
Day 01- A recent picture of you and 15 interesting facts about yourself
Day 02- The meaning behind your Blog name
Day 03- A picture of you and your friends
Day 04- A habit that you wish you didn’t have
Day 05- A picture of somewhere you’ve been to
Day 06- Favorite super hero and why
Day 07- A picture of someone/something that has the biggest impact on you
Day 08- Short term goals for this month and why
Day 09- Something you’re proud of in the past few days
Day 10- Songs you listen to when you are Happy, Sad, Bored, Hyped, Mad
Day 11- Another picture of you and your friends
Day 12- How you found out about Blogger and why you made one
Day 13- A letter to someone who has hurt you recently
Day 14- A picture of you and your family
Day 15- Put your iPod on shuffle: First 10 songs that play
Day 16- Another picture of yourself
Day 17- Someone you would want to switch lives with for one day and why
Day 18- Plans/dreams/goals you have
Day 19- Nicknames you have; why do you have them
Day 20- Someone you see yourself marrying/being with in the future or about your spouse.
Day 21- A picture of something that makes you happy
Day 22- What makes you different from everyone else
Day 23- Something you crave for a lot
Day 24- A letter to your parents
Day 25- What I would find in your bag
Day 26- What you think about your friends
Day 27- Why are you doing this 30 day challenge
Day 28- A picture of you last year and now, how have you changed since then?
Day 29- In this past month, what have you learned
Day 30- Your favorite song.

Messy Girl

We finally started solids! After 6 1/2 months of just bottle feeding she welcomed rice cereal with an OK attitude, hehe. By ok I mean she did the normal, sour faces, tongue sticking out...and mine and Nick's favorite face; she closed her eyes tightly and shut her mouth when she saw the spoon coming. Lol. I got it on video but we didn't get a picture.

Honestly that first time she did better when I would put some on the spoon and give it to her. It worked for a couple bites.

All in all, she did great for the first time. She didn't finish it, even though I didn't make much. She was ready for that good ole trusty bottle that she loves so much. These were taken on Monday the 18th. We did it again for breakfast on Tues and dinner. She did ok again for breakfast but did remarkably well for dinner last night. At the end she stopped the squinty face and just started opening her mouth. This morning, she never even made the face! She just ate it! Man she's getting big too fast!

Yummy Fruit!

I love this teether! As does Brynlee. The picture above is the first time she was using it. I put a semi frozen apple in it. By the time she was done, I took it and there wasn't much left in there but a tiny mushed up apple. I knew she'd like the apple because I've given her apple juice (very watered down) and she loves to drink that.

This face is after I put a kiwi in there. Lol. I figured she wouldn't like it, but its what we had in the frig so I was like why not. She kept on sucking though, but still making sour faces.

I have also put a frozen plum and a banana. She loved both, although I won't be doing the banana again, as its SO very hard to clean that thing with the mushy banana in it! Lol.

Couple days late...

I cannot believe that I have a 6 month old! Its so crazy! I have loved the last few months, she has learned so much its insane! Here is whats going on in Brynlee's world:

*Size 2 diapers

*She still wears some 0-3 months clothes and she can wear 3-6 months(except most pants-little waist and short legs)

*I love putting shoes on her but she has TINY feet! I bought her some black dress shoes for this winter, 0-3month size...super big! All I can say is they better fit by Christmas because they complete her outfit!

*Rolls & Rolls & Rolls. All. Over. The. Place. (I'm gonna miss all this carpet, our house is ALL tile!)

*Sits up all by herself. She was doing good at my dads, but conquered it here in Arkansas about a week ago.

*Loves to stand!

*Loves her sleep. Takes 4 naps a day. They just vary in time. One long one, the others are short.

*Eating 6 oz 4 times a day.

*Still no solids. We are starting once we get back in Italy. Daddy didn't wanna miss that mess.

*Still smiles all the time and is a VERY happy baby.

*No teeth. Although she drools tons, has been since 3m, and there are no signs of teeth soon.

*World Traveler; Italy, Czech Republic, America-then all the little places in between!

Thats pretty much the update of Brynlee. She is growing too fast for words really. I love her so much. We've had a great little vacation visiting family and introducing her to the people that hadn't met her yet. Next time they see her, she'll be so different! Getting closer to our time to find out where our next home will be! We are super excited!

P.S. I've done some of B's 6 month pictures here, but I don't have my big camera's cord, so they'll have to wait!

The US of A

Well Brynlee and I are in good ole America. We've been here for about a week and a half. Its been going really good. We are in Arizona with my dad and sister, and today my grandparents (dads parents) flew in today! So Brynlee got to meet her great grandparents on my dads side! They are in so awe of her its insane. I mean, honestly sometimes I don't feel like I have a baby with all these people loving in her and wanting her every second of the day! With that, I hope she isn't spoiled rotten by the end of this little vacay we're on. Nah, they don't always hold her and cuddle her, they have been playing on the floor with her too, so hopefully that will be better.




The flight over here was great. As good as a 9 hour flight can get. B did great. There were tons of kids on that flight and she was one of the quieter ones, thank goodness! The first take off she was iffy...I had some water for her...just in case her ears bothered her. She was good, then once we got in the air, but were still climbing...you know when your ears still keep popping randomly..she got a but fussy. So I just made her a small bottle and that worked. Of course then she fell asleep and then we were landing in Ramstein (germany) which we were to get off the plane for like an hour then head back into sercurity and wait about an hour to get back on the plane. Luckily we didn't have to take anything but our boarding passes with us. I really didn't want to lug the car seat and the backpack and such for no real reason. I was smart and since it was just me, I brought the baby carrier...so once we landed I strapped B on my belly and we were good. We walked around, change her diaper in a bigger bathroom than the plane has to offer one last time. Then headed back into security and waited to get back on.


This take off she did just fine. I still gave her a full bottle, her normal 6oz, and once we got up..I got her out to burp her and then she played a bit in her carseat (on this flight they require everyone to have their own seat and carseat, which I liked) then she fell asleep. She did really well on this one. Slept a bit, ate, played...and repeat. I did wake her a couple times just so she would sleep a little better with the time difference. When we landed in Baltimore, she got fussy but it was almost over so all the kids were getting antsy! My friend Kimberly, whom I went to school with when we were in Japan in '95-'98.. she and her hubby live in Balt so we crashed at their house that night, since our flight to Phx wasn't till the next morning. It was sooo nice to be able to sleep without worry and get a shower. Brynlee slept pretty good. She stayed awake till about 7p Balt time....which was 1a Italy time. I was shocked! She slept till midnight and then I put her in bed with me, then slept till about 430a and she ate, the fell back asleep for another hour or so. Then we got up to get ready for our next flight....


Boy did I like that 9hr flight compared to the 5hr flight! One; B didn't have her own seat and we gate checked her carseat with her stroller...the plane was hot cold hot cold, she was sick of me holding her and I was getting tired of holding her. I was so tire but she wouldn't go to sleep...oh was I glad when that seatbelt sign came on saying we are making our decent! And I know she was too. Once I put her in her carseat/stroller she was as happy as can be!


My dad and sister picked us up, and that night Brynlee stayed awake till about 6-7p Az time which is even more behind Italy..9hrs! Woke up to eat then slept a little more. By Sunday night she was totally back on her normal schedule! I was so worried about how the time change would be with her. She is such a good sleeper I was worried she'd be back to being a newborn, and even that wasn't bad but it wasn't as good as it is now! She goes to bed at her normal time, about 9p and sleeps till 8-9a. I am very blessed!


We head out to Little Rock on Friday afternoon. I am sooo glad that this flight is only 2ish hours. Since she again doesn't have her own seat! I know my mom and grandparents are dying to see/meet her! And of course I love showing my chubby baby off! Then we are there till about Oct 4th then head back to Balt and then off to Italy to see daddy whom we wish was with us so very much! Soon after we get back we should have an idea as to where we will be going in Feb!

5 months

Yup.
Can you believe it?!

I can't, but I say that with each month that passes us by!

So here's the stats.

*14lbs

*Size 2 diaper

*0-3 month clothes & some 3-6 month clothes.

*I haven't measured her length, so I'm not sure there.

*Still eating 6oz every 4 hours

*No solids yet

*Sleeps roughly 10-12 hrs at night, without waking!

*She grabs at everything she can reach.

*She has figured out the sippy cup, and can do it herself.

*She LOVES to stand!

*The last 2 days has been rolling from back to tummy a lot.

*Still doesn't roll from tummy to back a ton.

*Loves her daddy so very much. Her eyes get wide and smiles instantly when he comes home.

*Started giggling a lot, mainly for daddy of course.

*Getting closer each day to sitting up somewhat by herself.

Well that is our update. Keep praying we get on both flights, Space Available, next week and then on the way back. I am very much looking forward to our family seeing the changes in Brynlee and the family and friends who have yet to meet her! Nick will be here with the dogs, he was originally going to be gone TDY but he isn't anymore but Brynlee and I are still hoping to get a trip in before we PCS in Feb. Matter of fact, we find out next month where we can be goin and then the begining of November where we are going! I can't wait! Ciao!