Princess Tales

Girls night

2012-02-11T17:24:00.000-08:00

Well, my night really. The kids are in bed and Daddy's at the neighbors house watching the hockey game. Therefore I have prepared for the night by raiding the nearest Redbox and bringing home "Twilight: Breaking Dawn" and "Friends with Benefits". I've got my pjs on and ice cream in hand. Who would have thought I would get this excited about chick flicks and ice cream! Well......yeah. You know what I mean.

Reasons why.....

2012-01-28T17:39:00.000-08:00

I love my husband. There are the obvious reasons, he puts up with me and loves me unconditionally....yada yada yada. :)

But there are a few more reasons I find my husband so endearing, so here goes:

1. He has a HUGE soft spot in his heart for his little girl.
2. He is can fix/build anything in the house. He has finished the basement (more than once thanks to mother nature), built another bedroom for our growing family, built all kinds of shelves in the garage, etc, etc, etc. He's handy to have around.
3. He watches reruns of Home Improvement and MASH. (that old saying about marrying someone like your Dad. Yeah, there's some truth to that)
4. He is dedicated to keeping himself healthy. He's been through a lot and is very strict about staying healthy.
5. He gets me ice cream whenever I ask.
6. He loves to play tea party. See #1.
7. He let's Gannon play with his toys he had as a kid. Not sure which one has more fun with that.... :)
8. He is very book smart and teaches me LOTS of things. Even when I didn't know I wanted to learn them.
9. He cooks and cleans.

And finally.....

10. He is my very best friend.

~S

Two. Handsome. Men.

2012-01-26T20:08:00.000-08:00

I have two men in my life. I know. I know. It's scandalous. But I can't resist. They are both adorable and I can't see my life without either of them. So I'm keeping them both. Go ahead. You try and pick just one.

Being a Mom

2012-01-26T19:27:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking a lot lately about what it means to be a mom. Thinking about how long it took to become a mom. How much I love being a mom. And while not every moment is pretty and shiny, I know that being a mom is what I was meant to do. It's what and who I am. I'm a lot of other things, but being a mom seems to be the one thing that comes very naturally to me.

I'm not a smart woman. I don't remember anything from school really and I'm not the most intelectual person in the world. I could tell you every pattern in the new Coach line, but book smarts is not my thing.

So, being a mom is what I feel was put on my heart and built into my soul. It's what I know. God put me on this earth to give love and to raise his children with integrity and a soft soul to live in his word. I feel it. I feel it so very deep down that I am to be a mom.

I also know that with these blessings comes a great responsibility. One in which I take very seriously. And it's got me thinking, what if I wasn't here to do that? What if I wasn't here to tell them how much I love them and how much I love being their mom? If there is one thing I have learned in my 32 years of life is that things are never guaranteed. Unfortunately life is what happens when you are making your own plans. It's just the way it is. I hope and pray God gives me a long life to raise these babies and watch them grow. But here's the point to this post, if I can't, I'm asking a favor to all of you. Here it is:

Never let my children forget how much I love them and loved being their mom. Ever.

They ask when baptising children if the church family will love the children and help to raise them in the Christian faith. Everytime. They want to make sure their Christian family will be there to help guide them in God's word. So while I know those aspects of their lives will be taken care of, I'm asking all of you to help my children understand how deep my love is for them. How I love coming home everyday to their smiles and hugs and kisses. How I love watching Paighton sit in her rocking chair and read. How I love listening to Gannon's deep belly laugh. Remind them that sitting at the dinner table with them was always an adventure. How Paighton doing the itsy bitsy spider on her own for the first time after I had sang it to her a million times brought me to tears I was so proud. How watching Gannon take his first steps filled my heart with so much joy. Remind them that Paighton would always want to say her prayers with me when I laid next to her in bed at night, and that Gannon would always crawl to me and want me to sit him in my lap and cuddle with him. Tell Paighton that I would always love hearing her say "mommy, mommy, mommy" over and over again. Tell Gannon that he was is so very handsome and I fell in love with him instantly when I saw his face. Tell them that I called Paighton "doodlebug or monkey" and Gannon "my buddy or handsome".

I want you to tell them that being thier mom for however long I am on this earth was the greatest blessing God could have EVER given me. For he knew what their lives would do for my soul. He knew they would complete me more than anything ever could. Being their mom filled every empty space in my soul that came from many years of struggles to get them here.

I'm going to live a long time. I know it. God and I have had a talk and I have things left to do here. But just in case he changes his mind, I'm asking you, my family and friends to remind them of these things. Because when I do leave this earth someday, I never want there to be a question of my love and devotion to these two beautiful babies. Ever. I need them to always have a piece of my love with them, even if it comes from others.

This post is not meant to be sad. It's purpose is a request. A favor. Plain and simple. I know you can do it.

But for now, I will continue to continue on this journey that God set out for us. And everyday we are all together be thankful for the joy they give to me and that I have been blessed enough to be their MOM.

August 5th, 2010

2012-01-26T19:22:00.000-08:00

Yikes! 2010! Ahhhh, it's been a while. But I've got some thoughts and I need to get them down. So here I am. But that's for a new post.

But it's now 2012. So. Much. Has. Changed. :)

Stop the insanity....

2010-08-05T19:07:00.000-07:00

So I have been so kindly reminded again (ahem) by a fabulous girl in Florida (who shall remain nameless, but has the cutest little girl on the planet) :) that I have been slacking on passing along good info to the maybe 3 people that read my blog. So here I am.

The last two weeks of my life have been an absolute whirlwind. It started with the car accident that left me with a BRIGHT blue Chevy HHR to drive around in. Awesome. I feel like I'm in a box. But, we're not paying for a thing, so that works for me. Abby is actually being fixed, and they hope to have her back to me by next Thursday. We'll see.

I am feeling better from the accident, however, Ryan's had a few run in's with the law (think speeding tickets, not jail) so he will be in court at the end of the month for that. Awesome again.

And then there was work. I don't even know where to start on that. I was the event manager for the Johnson County Republican party watch event for the primaries on Tuesday night. I had SO much fun working with the comittee and loved planning the event. What I did not love, was the immature people EVERYWHERE. For something that was so "adult" to me, I have never, ever seen so many childish people in my entire life. **disclaimer**-I am about to go on a rampage here, so be forewarned you may not like what I have to say. In fact, I'm going out on a limb here posting things I never have before, so bear with me. And if you don't like it, I am not sorry, but feel glad knowing that you are entitled you your opinion and I'm entitled to mine. :)** Most of the actual campaigns were run by college students who were so disrespectful of me, my staff and the hotel in general. I obviously won't name names (email me and I'll fill in the blanks), but they would try and put their campaign signs up throughout the entire lobby. Like large signs, like the size of billboards. Really? Really that's okay in a hotel that just spent $22 million dollars to renovate the entire place? It's really okay to DUCT TAPE signs to the walls in the hallways upstairs? And it's super okay at midnight to walk the halls shouting your candidates name? And is it really okay for a group of protesters to come on private property and call a candidate a homosexual while his wife is standing next to him?

Let me fill you in-none of that is okay. They were insanely rude to my staff and honestly, I left that night re-thinking my position as a Rebublican. Yes, I said it. I'm a Republican. It disgusted me to see these candidates and the people they had around them. They were all immature and it scared me that they could be in an office of our government. Making decisions that affect my family. No one seemed to care that I continue to work hard and pay taxes and not go into debt, yet anyone from south of the border can walk across and have access to the same or better health care than I do for FREE. Their kids can go to school and get assistance for lunch. I can't, I "make too much money". They don't have to pay taxes. Anybody? Anybody care about that? Anybody care that everyone wants to be treated equally, but when in reality, we're not all equal. We're all different. You know, you can live your life one way and I'll live mine, that's fine. But I'm tired of the government overturning laws that were passed by the people because one person thinks it's unconstitutional. Um, is it not a democracy? Don't we get the vote and the majority rules? It's not we the people, it's "we who think we're entitled to everything". Apparently we've moved onto socialism and whatever the government wants to do, they can. Again, not sorry for the rant, but seeing the immature, silly bickering that took place on Thursday put me in a FOUL mood. Depressed actually because I worry for my childs future. And my grandchildrens' future. I do have a heart by the way, I am a pretty compassionate person and am very grateful for what I have. I do want to see people thrive, but there is a line. And to me, that line has been crossed.

Okay, deep breath. I have lots more to say about lots of things, but that was the highlights. :) You may not like it, but that's where I left on Tuesday night at midnight. Sad, tired and depressed. So, we're trying to work out of that funk. I'm praying. HARD.

And on a final note, Ryan's grandmother passed away yesterday. Grammy was such a cute lady and I am blessed to have known her for the short time I did before she fell ill from a stroke a few years ago. Grammy lived by herself in a home that she had lived in for 50+ years until she was 92. When Ryan and I were dating (SO long ago), Ryan would take me with him to visit her. The first time we visited her, we pulled into the driveway and Ry said "now, when we go in, she's going to offer you a bowl of ice cream. Say no because I guarantee you that ice cream has been in there for a year!" :) Sure enough he introduced me to her and we sat in her front "sitting room" and she said "would you two kids like a bowl of ice cream?" :) I'll never forget giggling a little inside because she was so cute. Before we got married, she told us over and over again, "you two are such a good looking couple, are you going to get married?". :) She would tell us all kinds of stories about her life and living on the Plaza in KC. Life was hard then as well and trust me, she had her opinions about things too! She taught us a lot of things and was very good to Ryan and his sister. I pray that God was with her when she passed and know her soul is with the Lord and she will be watching down on miss P as they were never able to meet.

There's more. Oh is there more. Like did I mention Paighton's walking? And can you believe that.....buuuuut that's for another time and another post. We are headed to the lake tomorrow for the 3rd annual Hillbilly BBQ. Nope, not joking. :) Good luck honey! Paighton and I are proud of you no matter what happens! You are by far the best cook we know! :)

And to end on a good note, a picture of my favorite person, Miss P. I love her. More than she will ever know. And I can't believe that in less than one month, my princess will be one. I love you sweet girl and am so BLESSED to have you as my daughter!

Always~

P.S. I PROMISE that the next post will be MUCH happier. :)

Family Fun Weekend....

2010-06-21T18:58:00.000-07:00

It was Family Fun weekend this past weekend! Ryan and I both had the day off on Friday and spent the day downtown, walking through the Children's museum at Crown Center and people watching! :) It was pretty warm outside but we had a great time just spending the day together as a family.

Saturday we hit the zoo with Cousin Will and had a great time. It was HOT and muggy, but we were able to do quite a bit before some storms rolled in. We plan on going back soon to the children's petting area and spend more time there. Paighton rode the carousel for the first time and had a blast. She kept watching all of the animals go up and down. She's such a good girl and I love watching her experience new things. It's one of the best things about being a parent.

Grandma and Grandpa Geiter have graciously agreed to watch Miss P on Saturday night as Ryan and I are going on a date! Michael Buble here we come! I have been waiting so long for this concert! He has been to KC before, and I always regretted not going. I bought tickets in February and have had to wait since then! Ryan is "thrilled", but knew how bad I wanted to go so we are making it a date night! Wondering where we should go to dinner? Ryan suggested Chipotle. I said no. :) We'll see where we end up! We'll take lots of pictures!

Hope all of you have a fabulous week!

But I didn't....

2010-06-17T18:25:00.000-07:00

So my sister Jen and I decided we should have a blog post entitled "But I didn't...". This post is dedicated to all those times when you really wanted to do/say something but didn't. So for this post, I'll start with some examples and feel free to join in on your own blog!

Today when I was in the bathroom at work (stay with me here...), there was a lady on her cell phone talking to someone the entire time she was in the bathroom. A public bathroom. With 8 stalls. I really wanted to turn up the speaker volume all the way on my Iphone and use the fake fart app my husband dowloaded on my phone to get her to HANG UP. But I didn't...

Or like tonight when Paighton and I were on our way home from Hobby Lobby and we drove past not one, but TWO Sonic's. Torture people. I really, really wanted to stop and order a Reece's Peanut Butter Cup Blast. With extra candy and whipped cream. But I didn't...

So there you go. A few examples to get you started. What didn't you do this week?

~S

Dear Miss Paighton,

2010-06-16T19:23:00.000-07:00

So much has changed in just ONE month!

You are a rocket! You are everywhere on your hands and knees and when we stand you up-you LOVE to walk. You walk and talk everywhere. It's like you are telling us how fun it is to walk around. Those little legs can get moving! You are pulling yourself up onto things and try so hard to stand up on your own when you are sitting down.

You also got your first TOOTH! Thank goodness! It was your bottom right tooth that decided to pop through first! Although all the other ones are coming in right after this one, so it's not making things very easy for you. My baby girl you try so hard to laugh, but sometimes the cry just comes out instead. I wish I could take away that pain for you, but the good thing is you won't remember it!

You have completed your first swimming class and have been to the neighborhood pool for the first time. You had a great time and loved to splash around. You love watching all of the big kids and smile everytime one of them come by to say hi to you. You are very social! (I can't imagine where you get that from....) You "talk" to all the kiddos and they love to play with you.

We are getting ready to celebrate your first 4th of July! Dont' worry, you have an outfit for each day of the weekend! Thanks Grandma Thurston! :) I'm not sure how you will do with fireworks, but let me tell you something kid, for as many times as you have been through some torrential thunderstorms, you have never woken up. So hopefully you'll be okay! We will be hanging out with family all weekend and I know you will have a fun time playing with your cousins!

Included are some of my favorite pics from the last month. Time is flying by baby girl. You are going to be 10 months in a few weeks and I can't believe what a big girl you are. I love you so much sweetheart and love spending every minute I can with you. Your laugh fills my heart and cuddling with you is the best part of my day.

"You're not going to make me pick up all these toys right Mom?"

You are everything to me sweet girl and I love you so much! I thank God for you everyday!

~S

Sing a song for me..

2010-06-08T19:32:00.000-07:00

I LOVE music. It always helps my mood and I love that my mood can change with a certain song. Songs/music are emotion for me and I always have music on in one form or another. On the computer/my I-Pod/car radio/radio at work, etc.

The best thing about music is that Paighton loves it too. Her mood can go from cranky to happy the instant music comes on. She has been this way since she was born. It's kind of crazy, but it totally works and she loves to dance to the music. It's fun to watch her listen and learn to bounce around and "sing" to the songs. I see show choir in her future. :)

What's playing on my i-tunes right now? "East to West" by Casting Crowns. Love this song. It's on shuffle right now, and to be completely honest, my shuffle includes more Christmas songs than anything else. I swear every third song is a Christmas song. It doesn't bother me at all, but Ryan seems to be amazed at the ratio of Christmas music to our other music. :) What can I say? I'm a sucker for a feel good Christmas song. :)

What's on your i-tunes? Anything I need to listen to? Anything for Miss P?

Our plans this week include a mommy's night out with the neigborhood girls to SITC 2, my in-laws in town for the weekend and mommy working on Saturday (again a big BOO).

In other news, my car DIED on Saturday and we missed Miss P's last swim class. A HUGE BOO. The car is fixed now, but mommy's heart, not so much. Yes, I know that she will have MANY MORE swimming classes, but it was important to me and I wanted her to get her certificate from class. So what does any good mommy do? Of course, you call the center and have them make a certificate for her so you can include it in her baby book. :) So I did, and they did, and it's in the mail to our house and should be arriving soon.

Speaking of mail, I am waiting on lots of goodies in the mail!

My mother's day gift is on it's way from http://www.thevintagepearl.com/. I can't wait and I'll take pics once it arrives.

A package of goodies that I left in Iowa (thanks mom for sending to me!) A package that includes fun stuff for the 1st birthday party! I found the perfect plates/napkins at Hobby Lobby back home. We also found some fun stencils and tools to get crafting for the party as well! I need to check my list....so much to do, so little time. :)

Last but not least, a few pics of baby girl. She outgrew her bathtub but is still really little for the huge bathtub in the bathroom, so I saw this online and bought it at Target a few days ago. She LOVES it. She thinks it's hilarious. Each time I make the beak "quack" she looks around to find where the sound is coming from. Again, I have video, but it still would'nt upload, so I am going to have to figure out what the h-e-double hockey sticks is going on! :

Have a WONDERFUL week!

Love

A busy weekend...

2010-06-01T19:03:00.000-07:00

We had a WONDERFUL time back home for the holiday. We headed up on Friday afternoon and spent as much time with family as we could. Saturday was spent shopping/browsing at the mall. Ryan and Dad hit Sheels and Mommy and Grandma hit Gymboree. I LOVE when they have a sale. Miss P got a few new things and mommy and daddy got, well, nothing. :)

Sunday was a big day as a lot of our family and friends came out to Mom and Dad's house for a bbq. We got to see Dave, Alissa and Tate and Mr. Tate got to sit up on the tractors! I hope he enjoyed them! Come back anytime Mr. Tate! I know Uncle Jim will give you a ride!

Monday we came home and ended up going to our neighbors bbq for dinner. A packed weekend! We had such a good time and I DID NOT want to go back to work today! Miss P has slept so good the past few nights as I am sure she was wiped out. She met so many new people this weekend and was such a good girl. She only had one case of the "I don't know you and I'm kind of scared.....buuuutttttt, I guess you're okay". :)

Our plans for this week include a check up with Ryan and his Cardiologist. A 9 mo (eeek!) appt for Miss P and Mommy has to work this weekend (boo). I am waiting until next week to go and see Sex in the City 2 with my fabulous neighbor girls. I have heard mixed reviews. Anyone else see it yet? What were your thoughts?

Now that June has officially arrived, I feel like we are going to be in full gear for the rest of the summer. If I'm not working, we will either be a) at the lake, b) in Iowa, c) at the Michael Buble concert (yeah for me, not so yeah for Ry) or d) hitting up the neighborhood pool. Oh, or a big E) planning Miss P's party. I have a running list of all the things to do/get/create for this party. So many exciting things to look forward to this summer!

Last but not least, my attempt to upload video was a huge FAIL. So, I have included some pics from this weekend for your enjoyment.

Please keep in mind the toy she was playing with was from 1966. Older than ME!

Paighton and her GiGi. They love each other. :) And I love that GiGi gets to play with her. My grandma is the greatest, and I can't wait for Paighton to know all about her!

Please excuse this picture-Mommy and Daddy just got back from a ride on the 4-wheeler and it was HOT ouside. We both look kind of worn down and ready for bed!

Hope all is well with you and yours!
~S

Crawling Part 2

2010-05-26T19:11:00.000-07:00

Okay, so FYI-I had to switch back to the old editor? So confused, but I think I got it! Miss P has been army crawling around now. It's funny how now that she's mobile, I can't even turn my back for a second and she's moved all the way across the room (yes, I knew this was going to happen, it's just realizing it is happening is sureal to me sometimes). Ryan likes to call her baby godzilla as she is always knocking things over. He will build a tower of blocks and she LOVES to crawl to it and knock it down. The funny part is that she always looks at Ryan before she does it like "Daddy-can I? Can I please knock it down? Is it okay?". Adorable. She is also getting an opinion about things these days. She doesn't like to eat her oatmeal without fruit mixed into it. She's NEVER been picky about food, but all the sudden now needs fruit mixed into her oatmeal. She also loves to stand and hold onto us and walk around the living room/kitchen. She must think this is a HOOT as she talks the whole time she is doing it. She likes to climb into our laps and over our legs. Apparently we make a good jungle gym. Still no teeth. Seriously. Nothin. Zip. Zilch. Nada. God forbid I have to order this kid dentures. :) Her bottom gums are still swollen, but I can't see much because she always sticks her tounge out at me when I try to look in her mouth. I got back on the treadmill tonight because.....we'll because it's a) been a long time, b) this fabulous girl named Ashley is getting married in August and I truly don't want to be the fat girl in all the pictures, and c) it felt good. I forget how good it feels to get out the aggressions. It actually brought back a lot of memories as before I was pregnant with Paighton and had miscarriage after miscarriage, I took my frustrations to the treadmill. I remember running one day and thinking over and over again "I will have a baby, I will have a baby. I won't let them talk me out of it". I remember feeling like this wasn't going to beat me. I wasn't going to let this win. It was weird, but this was th memory that came back to me tonight. So yeah, it felt good. Hopefully I can keep it up! And finally to give you an update on the sewing. After buying fabric and a pattern, I am on my way to making placemats and a table runner. I'm not promising quality, but you have to start somewhere right? I need to purchase some more pins and an actual pin cushion (wondering if they still make the tomato cushion?) and I should be able to move right along. We'll see. I promise to post pictures as I go. Well, it's been 20 minutes since I started this post and the video is still uploading. This could take FORRREEEEVVVVEEEERRRRR...and since I can't publish it until the video is done, you may not get this until tomorrow. Because I need to do laundry. So, have a great evening/day and enjoy the video! ~S

Crawling.....

2010-05-26T13:40:00.001-07:00

so I have a video of Miss P crawling. I would love to show it to you. I would. But for some reason I am a complete MORON and cannot figure out how to upload videos anymore.

Anybody? Not that anyone is dying to see her scoot across the floor, but it's fun, and I want to share.

HELP!!!
~S

Back in Business

2010-05-23T11:42:00.000-07:00

Thank goodness! Finally! A new camera has been purchased and we are back to being paparazzi. :) What did we get???

A Cannon SD 1400 IS. We decided it would work for what we wanted, still has HD video and is a great camera for us so far (in the 24 hrs we've had it...ha!)

She's also (with assistance) walking back and forth from the living room to the kitchen. Hopefully video of that to come!

The neighbors all came over last night and we had a great time sitting around the fire and munching on smores! The kiddos loved it and had a great time playing hide and seek. We absolutely adore our neighbors and are so blessed to call them our friends. They have helped Ryan and I through so much and are the greatest people. We can't wait for the Animal House party in July!

Speaking of parties, I have begun to purchase items for Paighton's 1st birthday party. People, it's only 3 months away. I know it may seem silly, but I have to prepare! Even as I write this, I am freaking out a little bit as I haven't even ordered the invitations! AHH!!!! The party will be over the Labor Day weekend, and I can't wait to get the party started. Okay, I really CAN wait as time just continues to fly by, however, I can't wait for Paighton to have her first bite of cake and for us to celebrate with our family and friends.

Today is a little cloudy, but we are still going to try and make a run to the park and Ryan will be smoking some ribs today for dinner. MMMM, yummy. Throw in some cheesy potatoes and we are in for a rockstar meal! :)

I hope you and your family had a great weekend and are enjoying some time together on this day of rest. God bless all of you!
~S

Dear Miss Paighton,

2010-05-20T00:51:00.000-07:00

Have I ever mentioned that I love you? Lately you and your teeth have been battling it out and I think the teeth are winning. I hate seeing you upset and I wish I could fix it for you. I promise once those little guys pop through, you will feel so much better.

You have been "waking up" (more like instant crying and munching on your hand) 2-3 times a night. Tonight has been good, I've been up checking on you and no crying yet! Whew! Hopefully you get a little rest.

You are moving all around now and crawl to us everywhere. You prefer Belle dog's toys and make a beeline for anything she has. Belle dog is amazing and gentle with you. She gets a little nervous when you head for her bone, but we're working on that. You are so cute as you are learning to put one foot in front of the other. If daddy or I hold your hands and stand you up, you LOVE to walk. You're working on your balance and always want to let go and do it yourself. I can't IMAGINE where you get that from. :)

You are making all kinds of sounds now! Your latest is "baa baa baa baa". I'm pretty impressed with the "B" sounds you are making! You are definetely a talker and get really excited when you are standing.

You love to be tilted backwards/upside down and giggle everytime we do it. You also love when mommy and daddy talk to you like Cookie Monster. :) We also play "I see you" in the mirror. A lot. You are so smart and will look into your little mirror to find us. You also love to look at yourself in the big mirror and get HUGE smiles when you do.

You also love the water. We started swim lessons this month and you have had lots of fun. We've even gone under water 3 times! Yeah! You love to watch the other little kids in the pool and always try to immitate mommy when I blow bubbles. The water doesn't taste to good but you are always smiling when we do it. You love to splash around and talk to your water toys in the bathtub.

You are headed to see some cows next weekend and I can't wait to see your reaction when they come right up to us at the fence! It will be lots of fun!

I love you baby girl with all my heart. You bring me joy each and every day. I thank God for you and the blessing you are to our lives.

I love you ALWAYS!
Mommy

We're in the market...

2010-05-17T19:33:00.000-07:00

for a new camera. Yes, our fabulous, free camera we got at the Ellen show met it's demise in the bottom of a diaper bag with a container of baby carrots. Not pretty. You could say it still "works", but everything through the screen is orange. A sad, sad day.
Therefore we are in the market for a new camera. And I know lots of you out there like to take pictures of your beautiful babies. So, any suggestions? Our photographer who has taken our family pictures and now pics of Paighton, suggested a Cannon. We would still like the video capability, but still really want a point and shoot. I don't know if I would know how to use one of those fancy things....I am not that smart. :)

I am hoping to get a new camera soon as I am going through withdrawl of not taking pictures of Paighton every day. She is really on the move and I want to try and document as much as I can. Cause you know, I think she's pretty fabulous.

So here is one of the last pictures taken with our old camera. It was Paighton's first swim class. I love her. :)

Alright, it's time to go to bed, and pray my baby gets a good night sleep. Oh yeah, and mommy too.

~S

There's an app for that....

2010-05-17T10:20:00.000-07:00

As Paighton has been teething away, we in the Geiter household have not been getting much sleep. Which is crazy, because this child has been sleeping through the night since she was three weeks old. I'm not sure how parents do this whole no sleep thing. Seriously, God bless you.

And as I was lying in bed the other night trying to go back to sleep, I saw a commercial for Iphone. Now, I have this phone, and I still can't believe how many crazy apps there are. Like, you can lock your doors at home from a remote location. Or you can scan a barcode on a product at a store and it will tell you which retailer has the cheapest price. I couldn't help but think, I wish there was an app that would just clean my house. As a result of little to no sleep, I have not been as attentive to the cleaning of the house as I should be (please keep in mind that cleaning is usually the LAST thing on my list).

I also wish there were an app that would just schedule my dr's appointments for me. Or maybe one that could zap me everytime I went to eat a cookie/brownie/ice cream sandwich etc. Oh, or maybe one that could walk my dog, or continuously throw the ball for her. Or maybe one that would send birthday/anniversary cards for me (because seriously, I am HORRIBLE at this).

So my friends, what would be your ideal "app"?

Behind door #2....

2010-05-14T19:24:00.000-07:00

Um, two posts in one day? It's amazing. Never to be seen again in the history of blogging. Ha!

It's been a hell of a day at sea kids, and I have been mentally cataloging all the things to update you about. So here goes.....

1. I recently made a purchase that has me excited about...well just excited in general. I had been wanting one for a while and can't wait to start on a project. What is it you ask?

Yep, a sewing machine. Why you ask? Because I have been wanting to start making things for myself. I see all of these fabulous dresses/bags/baby clothes and I KNOW that I can make them. My mom has been helping me understand the construction of projects and I have been practicing on the machine. With lined paper. No joke. The machine and I are one. :) I haven't sewn one single item (again, unless you count my pages and pages of lined paper :)) but I can't wait to start. My plan is to head to JoAnn's this weekend. My first project is one of the fabric diaper/wipes cases. The construction is pretty easy and the stitch doesn't have to be fancy, so I'm going to give it a whirl. I'll keep you posted on my progress. Btw-did I mention that I bought this machine BRAND NEW off of Craigslist? This sweet lady was moving to AZ and never even opened the box. Hello! It's like we were meant to be together. I got it at a SWEET deal. Seriously. I heart this sewing machine. A lot. Don't tell Ryan.

2. My beautiful baby girl is 8 months old. Seriously. Again, not joking. 8 months. I miss her terribly every day and she truly is the highlight to my entire day/week/month/year. She doesn't have any teeth yet. I think they are coming, she's had a runny nose, no fever and chewing (more like inhaling) her thumb lately. Poor baby. She's almost crawling. Paighton is pretty small for her age and I think she's just having some troubles supporting herself. She loves to stand and will let go of my hands immediately once up. Wondering if that's a sign of things to come? :) What doesn't surprise me at all is the amount of "talking" she does. Seriously, this kid has an entire conversation with herself. (shocking right?) We have a "Parent's As Teachers" program here and our teacher just came to visit on Monday night. Her comment was "I'm very impressed by her vocal ability". I wish someone would have told me that when I was younger instead of giving me a pink slip. Boo. *for those of you not familiar with a pink slip, see detention in the dictionary. :) She is truly amazing and I LOVE that she is my baby girl. It's fun just to spend time on the floor together and watch her learn new things. Her personality is very much like Ryan. She is very laid back and takes most things in stride. The teeth, not so much, but we'll get there.

3. Ryan had surgery. Again. No not on his heart, but he had a cyst removed from his back. He was not amused by the "we have to put you out" part of the surgery, but did great and it only took 30 minutes. Quite a difference from last time! The cyst was nothing dangerous, it was some fancy name that I don't remember, but he's A-OK. Except for the fact that he's on blood thinners which makes the healing process a little longer. Not fun for him, but I told him I would send him my bill in the mail. Alissa-I don't know how you do it everyday! And he's my husband!

4. My parents were down to visit earlier this month and brought their old treadmill. Um yes, it's been a while since the whole breastfeeding thing stopped, and my anxiety has lead to more and more pounds. Not amused. Therefore I need to get back on the Horse (aka treadmill) and get rid of the CRAP that is weighing me down. Literally and figuratively. Before I got pregnant with Paighton, I was running 3+ miles a day. And I'm NOT a runner. But it felt good and it was always a way to get my aggressions out. And trust me, lately, I am desperately in need of that. So, back on I go.

5. The future. It's always changing. To make a long story short, I need out. I need out of the 10 hour days, working weekends, 24hr on call nonsense that is my job. Do I love what I do? Absolutely. Am I pretty good at it? Yep, yep I am. Is my job as a mommy more important than this job? Do I really need to answer that for you? :) So, my mind has been in a whirlwind lately. I am praying very hard that a new direction opens up for me and that I am brave enough to step into it. Would I love to start an Etsy store and stay home with Paighton and be creative. Uh yeah. Would I just like to quit my job all together and stay home regardless. Uh, yep. And I do know that I sound like a broken record, which really means that I need to get off my duff and do something about it. I have been looking for other jobs and have been on a few interviews, but nothing has worked out yet. I am trying my best to think outside the box on this one. So, my fabulous friends, if you've got any ideas, I'll take em. It's time. It's time for Sarah to step forward and be open to a new direction, whatever that may be. I promise Paighton everyday that I love her and I'm going to make it work. And I can't fail at that promise. I just can't.

Whew, #5 was a SERIOUS one! Didn't mean to get SO serious, but I'm doing an update, and that's been a big part of my everyday stress/thoughts etc.

Well kids, since I was up every 3 hours last night trying to comfort my baby girl and her extremely stubborn teeth, I am going to head to bed (yes, it's 9:15 pm, please don't judge) :). I love all of you and have missed you. So I will really try to keep this updated. I'm already thinking of things for tomorrows post.

Love to you all! Thanks for reading!
~S

P.S. I am also thinking I need to give my new sewing machine a name. I feel like we've bonded and I don't even know her name. HA! ( I crack myself up-that or it's getting late and I'm so tired that I've moved onto loopy). If you have any suggestions, let me know. Maybe she and I could whip you up something as a prize!!!!!

Surprise!

2010-05-14T07:38:00.000-07:00

I have been alerted (ahem-more like RED FLAGGED) that I have been slacking in the blogging department.

So here is my short post to tide you over until I can post later tonight.

It's Friday-THANK THE LORD. We have Paighton's 3rd swimming lesson tomorrow and if the weather holds up, we will be headed to watch the Royals take on the Chicago White Sox tomorrow night. I forsee a loss by KC, but we'll see. :)

Otherwise, Sunday is a day of rest. Maybe I can convince my husband to do a little smoking. Not cigarettes but meat. You get the picture.

A few teasers for my next post: My newest big purchase (I am SO excited about this one), an update on Miss Paighton-because, you know, she's EIGHT months old now, and some thoughts about the future.

I hope you are all having a fabulous Friday and we'll see each other soon!
~S

The little things

2010-01-31T18:08:00.000-08:00

Happy Sunday!

All this week I have been thinking of things to blog about...and here's what I have come up with:

I have increasingly become aware of some of the "little things" that I go through life never acknowledging, but notice that they come in handy A LOT. Some significant and some so silly and crazy I'm almost embarrased to mention them (but I will). :)

1. Chapstick. With sparkles. I have recently found chapstick with a "shimmer" and find that I am addicted. Now, it's not your jar of carmex, or a fruit flavored balm, but it's fun (and by fun I mean makes me feel like I am wearing some kind of make up) AND it keeps my lips soft in the fridgid cold that is the midwest. So I'm hooked.

2. Lysol wipes. I have found that I am using these ALL of the time now that I have a child/gotten a cold/child has gotten a cold, etc. There are so many things to wipe....the counter, highchair, rattle, door knobs, tv remotes, phones, hand rails, toys, refridgerator handles, car keys, excersaucer, car seats, computer keyboards........

3. Car seat covers. Having a baby be in a car carrier in the middle of winter had been interesting until I invested $30 in a Eddie Bauer Car seat cover from Target. It's brown and pink, zips up over doodles and keeps her warm. So long to the too small blanket blowing off from the wind gusts of the plains, this little baby is MAGIC. I would highly suggest anyone with a baby in the winter have one of these.

4. A route 44 Diet Cherry Coke from Sonic. Here's the beauty of this deal. Our Sonic locations have .99 Route 44 drinks in the morning. How else would you think I could make it through my day??

5. My husband. Now, I know I said I don't normally acknowledge a lot of these things, but this one I am SO thankful for. You want to know why? Because if I ask him to please make my sandwich for lunch, he does it. And he knows exactly how many slices of turkey or knows what my "peanut butter to jelly ratio" is. That my friends, is the true meaning of love.

So there it is. Nothing fabulous, just some fun observations from the week. What are your "little things"? Let me know, I just might send you some shimmery chapstick for the best answer. :)

Have a great week!
~S

Five Question Thank God it's Friday!

2010-01-29T18:54:00.000-08:00

(sorry Kat, I swear I had to visit your blog like 6 times to copy the questions over..my brain is not functioning properly today)

Anyways! It's Friday and I like the 5 question Friday theme as hopefully it lets you get to know me a little more!

1. Would you ever vacation alone?
My first reaction was to say, "of course I could, peace, quiet and a good mani/pedi!". But really as I thought about it, I kind of feel like vacations are made to share! When I was a kid we would go on trips just us, but a lot of times we went with friends. It was fun to share in the adventure with others and made it that much more memorable.

2. Do you go the speed limit?
ah, no. not really ever. except maybe the time I was learning to drive. That might be about it.

3. Why did I start blogging/following blogs?
I started following Mandy's blog because I missed her. She lived in the US and was not really that close to me, but ever since she moved across an OCEAN, I have missed her more. So I always would read her blog and see pics of my favorite niece and her wonderful mommy and daddy. I thought it was super cool that Brooklyn would have all of this to look back on. I probably started blogging because I needed a release. I have some very old posts that reflect a much angrier, unhappy me. It then became a place that I found new fabulous friends and a connection with others. Now it serves as a way to keep grandmas and grandpas posted on the things happening here and making sure they are in Paighton's life!

4. Where do you shop for yourself?
If I had a ton of money, I shop where else? COACH. There is just something about a fabulous, classic handbag. It never gets to tight, it's always in style, and it goes with you everywhere.

Since I don't have a ton of money (see previous post), I shop at Ann Taylor Loft. Really haven't bought much for myself lately. Most of my money goes to Carters/Gymboree/Children's Place. Dang you super cute spring collections! :)

5. What was the song you danced to with your spouse at your wedding?
At the risk of being ridiculed FOREVER, I am going to have to admit, I don't remember. Is that horrible? AHHHH! Sorry honey. For those of you at my wedding that might remember, please let me know. :) Please know that there are many, many songs that remind me of us. Case in point:
a) "You and I" and "Everything" by Michael Buble
b) "Have a little faith in me" by John Hiatt

Lately, there has been lots of songs by Coldplay that remind me of us. I didn't really like Coldplay until Ryan introduced me to them. We have been to see them in concert twice now and I would see them again in a heartbeat. (keep in mind I also have Ashley Tisdale, Mercy Me and Flo Rida on my Ipod. I am an equal opportunity Itunes buyer :) )

Not much planned for the weekend and I'm pretty sure that's perfectly okay with me. My family will be here in less than a month now and that makes me VERY happy.

I had to use my lifeguard skills at work today, it was very interesting, but is a story for another post.

Love to you all!!
~S

Hot Mama Tuesday/Wednesday topic.....

2010-01-20T08:09:00.000-08:00

So I am by no means a "hot mama" (my hair hasn't been cut in I can't remember how long, my feet resemble something similar to sandpaper and I'm pretty sure my leg hairs are not supposed to rub against my jeans), but in light of Mandy and Kat's post, I thought I would throw my answer into the hat.

Today's Topic: What would you do with $50,000

Stay home. Period. Done. End of Story. I would stay home with Paighton as long as I could. We would go to movies, the library, the pool, the park, lunch with Daddy, go on trips, etc, etc, etc.

Since I don't have $50,000, we'll just have to make do with the time we do have together. Most of which last night was spent playing in the excersaucer, reading a Paula Deen magazine (hey, I've got to teach her early :)), and talk talk talking.

In other news, I purchased Paighton's first swimsut this past weekend. Hot dog. I can't give anything away, but I'll give you a hint.....

I can't wait for the pool (mommy will need to lose about 30 lbs, but at least my daughter will be FABULOUS!). I am trying to find her a water babies class to take in the spring so we are ready for the summer.

My nephew will be celebrating his first birthday this weekend which will be super fun! His theme is Pirates! Ahoy Mates!

Hope everyone's wednesday is a good one!

Five Question Friday

2010-01-08T13:38:00.000-08:00

Thank's Mandy for putting up the questions! Here we go!

1. What's your "comfort food"? Warm chocolate chip cookies and an ice cold glass of milk. Mouth watering.

2. Do you send Thank You's (handwritten or email)?When I send them I send by mail. I have written a lot of thank you's in 2009 and loved picking out new designs. I really want to get a cool monogram return address stamp like the Bass' have....I heart it.

3. If you had to be trapped in a TV show for a month, which show would you choose? The Real Desperate Housewives of Orange County. No New York or Atlanta for me. Throw me into the mix of fake tans, skinny bodies and mercedes and I'm golden. Don't you think I would look fabulous with a face lift??? :)

4. What is your favorite online recipe site? Food Network/Kraft Foods/Paula Deen All have great receipes and I'm addicted to "more butter" HA! I really am more of a baker than a cook, so I love Paula's ooey gooey butter cake. If you haven't tried it, it's super easy and melts in your mouth (it should as it has TWO sticks of butter in it)

5. If you had to choose: "Friends" or "Seinfeld"? It's a moo point.

Have a great weekend everyone!

Whirlwind of thoughts....

2010-01-05T08:19:00.000-08:00

It's 2010! Happy New Year!

I have been reading lots of peoples resolutions/thoughts/posts about this new year. And in the 5 short days that have already happened this year, I have learned A LOT!

1. Today could be your last day. Today could be the last day that you kiss your husband goodbye and hug your baby. It's a cliche I know, but don't let it pass you by. Life is too short to hang on to the bad/negative/crappy stuff that is going on. Make your heart right with God everyday and that is ALL that matters.

2. Time goes by WAY faster than you think. Was it just me or did the holidays come and go in a flash? I wish I could have captured it all on video because I am sure I missed something somewhere along the way.

3. It is flipping cold outside. Seriously, where did this come from? My poor puppy loves the snow but her paws are like icicles when she comes inside.

4. I have an amazing group of friends and family and I should let them know more often that they are amazing. They all have the ability to lift me up when I am in need, and I need to do that for them. Everyone needs to know they are loved and 2010 is going to be the year I share that with them. I PROMISE.

5. There is no such thing as a "routine". I will try with all my heart to be on a schedule, and it never fails that something will change. I will need to learn to "go with the flow" a little more and not freak out when my child decides to stay up until Midnight on NYE just because she wants to party with all of us. She still slept well once we put her to bed and continued to the next night. I should know better, she's my child and she likes to party. HA!

6. There is no place like home. Period. End of story.

7. I love my life.

8. Pumping breastmilk at work is embarrasing. Ask me and I'll tell you a funny story about a phone call, my boss, and a leaky faucet. It's not pretty. :)

9. My child will be baptized on February 28th. I look forward to giving her life to God once again and asking him to watch over her. For she is his miracle and his good works. She is his child and I am honored to be her mommy. I love you Paighton!

10. 2010 is going to be a year filled with love, laughter and life. I can't wait!

~S

The last few days...

2009-11-23T19:53:00.000-08:00

have been a whirlwind. I can't believe that less than a week ago, I was sitting in a waiting room holding my daughter and waiting for news that my husband made it through open heart surgery. He did, and today my friends, he is home. Home. With me and baby Paighton. We are back together again.

I wish I could tell you everything that happened, every feeling, every moment, but I can't. The post would be too long.

I know it is Thanksgiving in just two days. But to me, at 30 years old, each day is one of Thanksgiving. Each day my heart grows more full. Full of the things in life that have made me who I am today. I have more "life" now than ever.

Who I can I thank for this. My Father. The one in heaven who created me and my soul. He provided me with the strength, love and courage to make each new day better than the one before. I am created in his image. And to know that he loves me, a small town nobody girl from Iowa, is a powerful thing. I'm not perfect, and he doesn't expect that from me. So Lord, today I am thankful for that.

I am thankful for my husband, my best friend, who you have given me more days with. I am thankful for my little girl who you knew would be perfect for me, and for my family and friends, who I am able to share my life with.

As each day passes, I will be thankful to you for each of these things, as well as the challenges and blessings that are to come.

With many thanks,
~S

Five Question Friday

2009-11-13T10:47:00.000-08:00

Thanks Mandy for reminding me! :) So here are today's questions:

1. What is your favorite "eat" on Thanksgiving?
Totally going with mashed potatoes here. A big fluffy warm lump of mashed potatoes. With a well. A well large enough to hold a big pat of butter. And until recently, I wasn't a fan of topping that off with a pool of gravy. Until recently. I guess your tastebuds change a little once you have a baby!

2. What is the name your best girl friend and the best trait about her or how you met (or heck, both!!)
Mandy said it best-I am blessed with so many friends that love me. I think the best thing about my 3 best friends (Alissa, Mandy and Jill), is that they remind me of who I am and who I want to be. They help me to be a better person, and for that, I am forever grateful.

3. What would you say is one of your "weirdest" quirks?
My weirdest quirk? What do you mean? I'm not weird! (no jokes please :)). I would say my quirk is that I have to have the "center" of everything. A pan of brownies, lasagna, casseroles, etc. I hate the edges. That's why I married Ryan-he would always cut me out the middle piece.

4. What is your favorite genre of music? (Hip hop? Classical? Rock? etc.)
I really do like all music...in fact, my hubby has turned me onto some bluegrass music which is very fun. Don't worry Nelly-you're still in my playlist.

5. Are you a Night Owl...or an Early Bird?
Early Bird. The only time I was really a night owl was in college. There is NO WAY I could stay out as late as I used to. Forget it. I would rather get up early and be at peace with the sun.

So that's it! All about me in 5 questions! :)

Mom and dad are coming down on Tuesday and will be here through Thanksgiving! YEAH!!! I got some Christmas shopping done yesterday-WHOO! I really need a countdown added to my blog for this!

I hope you all have a great weekend!

Love~
S

A short story

2009-11-10T19:13:00.000-08:00

So this post won't be very long-but I promise more later! The above pictures are of one of the Maple trees in our back yard from last week. They are ABSOLUTELY beautiful. I LOVE the colors. Unfortunately they have already lost their leaves, but I am glad I got a few pictures of them. We really want to plant another Maple this year, in honor of Paighton's birth, but I am not sure if we are going to get there.

We have been busy! I have been trying to figure out my back to work schedule :(. Ryan has been watching Paighton for a few nights this week while I run errands, etc. It is weird to leave her. Not my favorite, but it has to be done.

Thanksgiving is just around the corner. My list is a million miles long of things I have to be thankful for. And it keeps growing. Praise the LORD!

Things are going to get much busier here with us. But for right now, we are happy spending time together as a family. Ryan has tomorrow off, so we plan on hanging out together, just the 3 of us (ok, and a little belle dog too) :).

Last but not least, a new picture of Paighton! :) Ryan got a new recliner this past weekend (he never let me forget that I MADE him get rid of his old one-so he was deserving of an upgrade). I took Paighton's picture in it-she looks so tiny in it!

Last but not least, I would like to have a moment of silence for the passing of the Saturn. This was Ryan's very first car and we still had it, up until this afternoon. One of Ryan's co-worker's purchased it (no, we didn't give it away), so we know it is going to a good home. My husband shed a little tear...it was his "baby". (he keeps saying "why do you make me sell all of MY things...." HA!) So honey, thank you for making the sacrifice and selling your most prized possession. Paighton's college fund thanks you!

Love to you all!!!

Our first Halloween

2009-11-02T12:35:00.000-08:00

was amazing! Paighton did so good! She wore her costume-which involved a large hat, and had a great time with the neighborhood kids! She is so adorable (again, I'm biased, but we're still going to go with it! :))

It was a beautiful day here and we walked down to our neighbors house for the party. We are so blessed to have great friends and neighbors. They are amazing, funny, thoughtful, caring, etc, etc. I can't imagine living here without them! We then came back home and met up with cousin Will (Pirate Will-he looked adorable in his little outfit and sword!), Aunt Nicole and Uncle Ryan, along with Gammy and Grandpa. It was so much fun seeing all the fun costumes on the trick or treaters!

Yesterday Ryan and I celebrated our 6 year wedding anniversary. It has been 6 years filled with challenges and joys. I hope the next 6 are filled with more joys (of course :)), but I love my husband now more than I did the day we got married. I look back sometimes and think, "gosh, I was so young". I got married at 23. But our love and relationship has blossomed into more than I could ever imagined. Ryan is my best friend and loves me for who I am. We have the same thoughts, beliefs, morals and I look forward to raising our daughter to be a happy little girl. (Even if she picks up a few bad habits from daddy along the way HA!)

I am starting to get more accomplished while Paighton is napping, which is a good thing. There were many days where I just wanted to lay in bed and take a nap!

Paighton will be going to the doctor on the 5th for her TWO month appointment. Um, father time, could you please turn the clock back? About one month would be GREAT! I can't belive how fast time goes by. She is a big girl! She is sitting in her bumbo seat and moving all around. She hates to sit still...again, already? I am a little nervous about the round of shots she will be getting on Thursday, but hopefully it will go well. If anyone has any tips for surviving the "shots" appointment-let me know! :)

We love you all!

Properly Packaged

2009-10-27T12:34:00.001-07:00

Happy Tuesday! Paighton is sleeping and mommy decided to write a little note on the blog!

GG (Great Grandma Thurston) sent Paighton a package yesterday! Her first official package! It had lots of GREAT stuff! We will be wearing our goodies all this week! Yeah!

We also figured GG would like to see Miss Paighton, so we recorded a video for her! (Please excuse the greasy hair-a tshirt and sweats seem to be the only things in my wardrobe these days!)

I can't wait for Halloween! We are going to have our first family pumpkin carving tomorrow night. Whoo! Then its a halloween party at work on Friday and a party at the neighbors house on Saturday!

Then Sunday is the big day! 6 years of marriage to my wonderful husband. Not sure what the plans are, but I think this year it might involve hanging out with my Paighton girl. :)

Hope you are having a great day! We love you!

Weekend of Fun

2009-10-25T15:55:00.000-07:00

So the Geiter household is kind of exhausted this weekend. Grandma and Grandpa left today (sigh). We were very busy this weekend!

My parents arrived on Thursday night and we all sat down to a wonderful dinner together. Pork chops and mashed potatoes. Yum.

Friday morning my parents ran an errand and once they came back, mom, Paighton and I headed to Holiday Mart. Holiday Mart is a show that is put on by the Kansas City Junior League. There are over 100 vendors that sell their goods. Anything from Christmas and home decor, clothing, jewelry, baby/kids items and food. It is awesome. We spent 5 hours there and were shopped out by the end of the day. It was a GREAT day. Mom and I got some fun stuff, and of course Paighton got a few things too! :)

Saturday mom and I went to the craft store and Ryan and Dad hung out at Bass Pro shops. Then Ryan and I went on an actual date on Saturday night. Thank you Grandma and Grandpa!!!! We went to see "Law Abiding Citizen" (my review: a VERY dark movie-I felt like I needed to go watch cartoons to cheer myself up!) and then went to Old Chicago for dinner (also yummy!). It was nice to get out as a couple, but I won't lie, I did call home during dinner to check on Paighton. What mommy wouldn't? :)

This morning topped off a great weekend with a trip to IHOP! No Sunday morning is complete without pancakes. (I see a theme for the weekend: FOOD!) It started to rain later this afternoon, so we have been laying low tonight.

I do have to post pictures of the creation that Mom and I did this weekend. At Holiday Mart this lady was selling the cutest bow hangers. They were boards covered with fabric and had strands of ribbon down the front for the bows to attach to. Mom and I decided we could make one of our own! The following is what we came up with! I love it and will be hanging it in Paighton's room tomorrow!

Notice that it is full of bows already. This could present a problem. :) But I love it and I am so glad we did it! It was pretty easy~Thank you mom for your help!

That's about it from us! I hope you all have a great week! We love you all!

One in a Million

2009-10-20T17:15:00.000-07:00

My smiley girl is the cutest thing I have ever seen. Okay, so I'm a little bias. However, I have evidence to support this claim!

Hello Cuteness! (She gets it from her mommy)

I have to post this picture of our first baby. She has done VERY well with Miss Paighton. She doesn't get quite as much attention, but she's taking in well. She's even given her a few wet sloppy kisses for good measure!

Paighton and I have two lunch dates this week, plus a visit from Grandma and Grandpa Thurston. We can't wait!! Grandma, Paighton and I are headed for an all day girls shopping trip, and Grandma and Grandpa have graciously agreed to babysit so that mommy and daddy can go for dinner and a movie. (I don't think we had to twist their arm TOO much) :)

Yesterday I went to weigh Paighton and she is almost 10 pounds! Big girl she is! Our little sack of potatoes! :) She doesn't go to the doctor for another 2 weeks, so we'll see what she is at then.

And now, for a parting smile...

I wonder if it's possible to just stare at her all day long.....yep, it is. :)

Love

Land of Pumpkins

2009-10-18T15:10:00.000-07:00

Greetings from Kansas! We bring you more pictures of Princess Paighton! Yeah!

This is as close to her full smile as we have been able to catch on camera. She is talking all of the time now (the apple does not fall far from the tree) :)

She has these little pink bunny slippers to keep her feet warm. Seriously too cute.

And now some pictures from our Pumpkin Patch adventure today. Yes, I know she will never remember this, but it was fun to take her outside, thank the Lord for the sunshine today!!!

We had a great day today! I am so excited to continue making these memories for our family. These are the days that I have been dreaming of and I have to thank God for this blessing. She is amazing and I couldn't ask for more!

We are looking forward to a great week. Both sets of Grandparents will be in town and Halloween is just around the corner! Whoo!

Love to all of you!

Pictures say a million words

2009-10-14T06:20:00.000-07:00

We recently had our family pictures taken by my very good friend and AMAZING photographer, Rebecca Peters. We used to work together and she quit her job to pursue her dream of being a photographer. I can't begin to tell you how wonderful she is and I can't wait to see what the future has in store for her!

She has created a slideshow and I have attached the link:

http://www.rebeccapetersblog.com/families/paighton-newborn-session

Thank you Rebecca for capturing our miracle in pictures! God bless you!

Hope you all enjoy!
Love~
S

Rules

2009-10-13T10:27:00.000-07:00

Miss Paighton and I have already had to discuss the rules of this household. More like the rules for the changing table. They are as follows:

1. Once your dirty diaper is off, it is not okay to pee before the new diaper is on.

2. Farting is not okay when trying to clean off your bum.

3. Please do not poop into a new diaper 10 seconds after it has been on.

4. Do not laugh and smile at mommy after doing any rule listed above.

5. Always remember that mommy LOVES you.

I am sure we will add more to the list, however, we hit all 5 rules today and I felt the need to review.

Onto the pictures!

"Mommy, I would like to think that over just a minute longer"

I bought this outfit for her a while ago since she didn't really have any clothes that fit, other than pj's. I love the little sweatsuit!

I was trying to get a picture of her yawning. She threw up 2 seconds later. So there you go.

She is such a cute sleeper, I love listening to her talk in her sleep. So here is a video from just the other day.

We tried a different kind of bottle yesterday and she seemed to do better with it. So we'll have to make sure it works and then can go get more of them.

So that's all we have for today folks. Hope everyone is having a great Monday!

**EDIT: Sarah, it is not Monday. It's Tuesday. Seriously, the days are going by too fast**

Love

Happy Friday!!

2009-10-09T16:55:00.000-07:00

Hello! It's been a busy day around here! We had lunch with Daddy and then went to Target and took candy to my work. I always have a full candy jar in my office, I couldn't let my team starve! :)

5 question Friday sounded fun! Here are my thoughts:

1. The one thing I reach for most in the day these days is our camera. I hate missing any moment. I keep trying to get a picture of her smiling, but I have yet to do so. She smiled at me 7 times yesterday. Yes, I counted. It was the highlight of my day! :)

2. Hmm, the furthest I have been from this home is either L.A. or NYC. Since Kansas is pretty much the center of the country, I figure they are approximately the same distance. I was only in L.A. for less than 24 hours, but it was so much fun!

3. I have a Samsung something or other. It was free. I have one in Orange and Ryan has the same thing in blue. We're boring but our phones were free. You know how cheap my husband is! I would LOVE an I-Phone and almost bought myself one for my 30th birthday, and then I thought "I am having a baby in two weeks. Maybe I should save for the hospital bill". I hate being responsible.

4. Coke. Really, a diet cherry coke from Sonic is my favorite. MMMMM.

5. We had a great wedding day. I spent the day with my girls, ate turkey sanwiches at the church for lunch, and then we partied hard at the reception. It was a good time had by all. And now being a wedding planner, I would say that weddings are WAY out of control. People forget that day is supposed to be about getting married, not that the salad dressings are on the "wrong" side of the table. Sorry, side rant, but it had to be said.

And now for what you have all been waiting for, Paighton girl! Ryan bought this bib for her at BRU, needless to say it was on clearance. Shocking.

Paighton has been working on her tummy time, and loves to lay on mommy and daddy to do it!

Such a sweet face......

My two favorite people.....

We shot a little video of tummy time. Grandma's and Grandpa's will love this one!

I also took a video of her this morning while waking her up. She is so cute in the morning, just like daddy, she has to streeeeettttccccchhhhh it out and she makes all kind of funny sounds. Hilarious. I would post it, but it's too big to upload. Pooooh. I will try and post it on facebook.

Hope you guys have a great evening! We love you!

Rainy Day

2009-10-08T13:30:00.003-07:00

It's a cold rainy day here, perfect for cuddling! I of course had a few new pictures of Paighton girl, so here they are!

I am working on my bow collection Auntie Mandy. I look good in red! :)

Auntie Mandy-mommy wanted you to see my cupcake bib. She says you really like cupcakes!!

We have just laid low here today. Nothing too exciting. Paighton has been such a good girl. She is doing better with the bottle. And still sleeping through the night. We are very blessed!

I am going back to the doctor next week for my check up. I can't believe it has been 6 weeks already!

And Kat's blog was "Thankful Thursday", so here are a few from me:

1. My family.

2. Frozen meals that can be made in a jiffy!

3. Chocolate Chip Cookie bars. Yum.

4. Bottles. Now daddy can feed miss Paighton and mommy has a little more freedom.

That's about it for us today! Hope you are all having a great day!

I love Kisses!!

2009-10-05T11:01:00.001-07:00

I love Kisses! I bought this the other day at Carter's. I love her in it! Although it's a little big still, we are starting to grow into our outfits!

My dad left today. It was so good to see him. He came at just the right time to refuel my heart. I miss them very, very much. But Grandpa got to love on Paighton girl, as you can see below. Grandma will be here in a few weeks to go on a girls shopping trip!

My dad brought me down a gift from my grandpa. It was my mom's wooden rocking chair from when she was little. My grandpa had it all this time and was holding onto it. It was very nice of him to send it down for Paighton to use. For my mom's protection, I won't tell you how old it is! :)

We are thinking about trying to introduce Paighton to a bottle, however I am not sure of the best process to do so. We have all of the stuff, and I know that Ryan should probably be the one to introduce it, but I am worried that she is just now going to want the bottle and not me? We'll see how it goes, we have been very lucky so far with feedings, so hopefully this goes just as smoothly. Any suggestions?

Tonight is the Packers vs. Vikings game. I am hoping Brett Farve has an injury in the first two minutes and can't play in the game. HA! Just kidding (maybe). :) It should be a good game. We need to beat the Vikings to be ahead of them in our division! Oh the pressure! I was really hoping Paighton could fit into her Packers onsie, but it is still too big. :( Maybe during the playoffs (assuming we can make it that far!).

We went to see Ryan's cardiologist this morning. His aneurysm has grown again to 5.1. It was 4.9 when we went 6 months ago. We have been directed to go to the vascular surgeon to have him review Ryan's case. If he agrees, Ry will have to have a heart catheter to make sure there is nothing else blocking the arteries. Once that is clear we can schedule surgery. Lots to think about.

Anyways, one last picture of my baby girl. She was only 5 days old, but she is already is saying her prayers! I love her!

Lots of random thoughts today! Thanks for reading!

Love,

What to name this post?

2009-10-02T11:38:00.000-07:00

Okay, so there are maybe 3 people in this world that might read this post, but Mandy and Kat called me out, so there is no turning back!!

There are a lot of things to say in this post-so I wasn't sure what the title should be? State of the Union-our first 30 days? Blessed to be a mommy? Five Question Friday? I'll try and hit all of these!!

First, five question Friday:

1. My favorite ABBA song? Well, I have to admit, I don't really know many of them, so Dancing Queen it would have to be. It reminds me of the 70's disco bar we used to go to when I first moved to KC. Someone tried to hit on my husband (boyfriend at the time) our first time there. Too funny.

2. Why I love fall? Because it's awesome. The thing I love the most is watching our two maple trees in the backyard turn color. They aren't there yet, but I check them everyday. Ryan and I want to plant a tree for Paighton in our backyard, I think I would like it to be another maple. They are so beautiful to me!

3. What store would I go to with unlimited funds? Um, Coach. Simple. Bonus is that I could find something for mommy, daddy and Paighton all in one store. Sweeettt!!

4. My favorite snack food? Do chocolate chip cookies count? I could sit down for chocolate chip cookies and a glass of milk for any meal. I craved them even more when I was pregnant. MMMM, I think I might have to make some today!

5. My first car? Was my mom's new Oldsmobile Cutlas Calais. I shared it with my mom. Too bad I totalled it 4 months after I got my license. Sorry mom. From there it was a game of "rotate a car" with my dad always finding and selling cars. My first car that I bought myself was a Chevy Lumina. We called him Lenny. By the time we got married, he had a broken air conditioner, the driver's side window didn't work and you couldn't open the passenger door. Needless to say he was traded in for Abby the Altima!

Our State of the Union: 30 days has FLOWN by. I can't believe she will be a month old on Sunday. She is a super good baby, and has a personality already (shocking, as she is my child) :). She slept 3 out of 5 nights this week and only wakes up once a night on the other nights. The daytime is getting interesting as she is learning that I will pick her up when she cries. I try and let her fuss a little because I know she just had her diaper changes, was fed and fell asleep. But the angry screams have begun to come from her little lungs and she will tell you she is not happy. I will put her down for a nap, she will sleep for 30 minutes and then wake up crying. Not sure what is going on, but we'll work through it. Hopefully mommy can keep her sanity through it! But I love her and that's what mommy's do. Which leads me to my next thought:

How blessed I am to be a mommy: We had our family pictures taken yesterday, and the one where I am sitting in the chair on our front porch, yeah, I was crying. I was looking at her and thinking how long I had waited to sit with our baby and love her. So many firsts that we will get to do together. It's amazing. I tell her all of the time how much I love her, but I also tell her that she is just on loan to mommy and daddy. She will always be God's child, first and foremost. I asked him a long time ago to take this baby and hold her in his hands. To always watch out for her and bless her with his love. And I will always believe that she is his child first, and our blessing to raise and teach her to love. Just on loan....and I am okay with that.

My dad will be down here today as he is going to the Nascar race with my hubby. We bought seats for this season at the track last year before I got pregnant, as I really wanted to go to the Nascar race. Paighton threw a little kink in the plan, but was well worth it. So grandpa and daddy are going to redneck it up and I know they will have a great time! Grandma is jealous that she isn't here too, but she is coming in a few weeks to go shopping with mommy, so we will get lots of grandparent love in!

I have posted a few pictures of my princess. I love her eyes. I could look at them forever. They tell a pretty cool story. :)

My husband is such a nerd...I took this picture of him and Paighton and when he saw it, he said "dude, look at my guns. They are awesome". Seriously honey? So next time you see him, let him know you were impressed not by the baby, but by his muscles. HA!

Alright, I think that's about all I have for today. I do solemly swear that I will post more often so that everyone can keep up with Princess Paighton (and mommy on occasion!)

Love

I've been busy....

2009-05-14T15:01:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's about time that I blogged....I have just been a little busy!

So all of the maybe 4 people that read this blog already know that we are expecting Princess Geiter on September 5th. There are NO words to explain how AWESOME this experience has been. It seems like the 3 little babies we have lost are not gone, just seem like such a long time ago.

Honestly, things have been GREAT! I never got morning (or evening sickness), not really tired, and I just really started wearing maternity clothes in the last week or so. We are at 24 weeks tomorrow! TIME IS FLYING BY. I can't believe it sometimes. How quickly your whole outlook on life can change in an INSTANT. Okay, I am using a lot of caps here, but I feel very adamant about these things. This pregnancy has been the best thing that has happened to me since I got married 5 years ago. I'm not kidding. Wanting to be a mommy so badly, and then my deepest desire coming true more and more each day has filled my heart. My big mommy heart.

I love feeling her kick and punch and roll summersaults! She is very active and likes to wake me up about 3 am every morning these days. Seriously, how lucky am I?

Ryan and I continue to be very blessed (although the house being struck by lighting wasn't my favorite... :)). We have so many family and friends that are so gracious and want to throw us baby showers to welcome our baby girl. I was also invited to the Ellen Degeneres Mother's Day show by a friend who has shared the loss of her last two pregnancies with me. We didn't realize HOW MANY items we would be blessed with from the show. I mean a $700 stroller really? :) We have donated the crib to a family that really needs help, and I am so glad the show allowed me to bless them as well!

Things just seemed to have turn around for us (I am knocking on wood) and I can only know to enjoy these blessings for right now. Parenting is NOT easy, but these last six months have been amazing. I can't believe we only have 16 weeks left! We better get to parenting class.... :)

Lastly, I ask for your prayers for my husband this October. He will need to have his Aorta replaced as his anuerism (sp?) has grown to a size that is a risk to him. I know he will be fine and that this is happening so that he can be around for a LONG time for his daughter and myself. However we are both just a little (or lot :)) apprehensive and I ask that you pray for peace in his heart. I am a true believer that your attitude is half the battle when facing these type of challenges and I hope my husband begins to understand that. I want him to enjoy his little girl, not be so fearful of her birth as he associates that with "D-Day". Make sense?

Anyways, I thank you for reading this far....you guys are the greatest and we love you!

~S

Dates

2009-02-03T16:16:00.000-08:00

Does anyone else ever feel like we are controlled by dates! Seriously, go with me here.

There always seems to be a date on the calendar that we can't wait for-vacations, birthdays (i'm skipping mine this year), anniversaries, visits from friends, etc. I wish I could just know that today is good. I should look forward to today and know that it is one more day that I have on this earth.

So, I have a few dates that I am looking forward to, but today I know that things are good. Things are great. And when I do come to those important dates, things will be EVEN BETTER!

Hope all is well for you!
~S

Updates and such

2009-01-27T23:48:00.000-08:00

Congratulations Kat! There are just so many things to say! I can't wait to hear more stories of your new adventures as mommy and daddy! This truly calls for a Florida celebration! If only Mandy would get on a plane! Love you M! Thank you for being such a great friend to my favorite person in the whole world. She loves you muchly, and I am so glad you guys take such good care of each other! It is wonderful to have friends like that!

It's been a while since I have posted, and honestly, I have lots to say, but I can't. I am posting today to try and find a little peace in my heart and mind. Turning off my mind is VERY difficult for me, as you can see as it is 2 am here and I am not sleeping. My body needs some peace and relaxation, and I am trying very hard to do that. For those of you that know me, this is not easy. I would classify myself as "high strung" and an anxious person and finding a peace to let everything happen as it needs to is difficult. I am a planner, I do it all day at work and I try to do it in my personal life as well. HA! That never works, but I seem to think I need to have control. So, maybe that should be my goal for each day, just letting go of the control and going with the flow!

Enough of that-Mandy, I miss Brooky today. I watch her Christmas video all of the time. I love it. It looks like you had fun at the swim meet! I loved the "frustrated" picture. She is amazing. Do you just look at her and laugh when she does things like that? Hee Hee, she is funny.

It's super bowl Sunday this weekend. My prediction is the Steelers, but we'll see. Kurt Warner is an Iowa native so maybe I should be cheering for him instead? :) We are going to see our new nephew this weekend. He's awfu cute and he likes to talk to Aunt Sarah a lot! We are going to have so much fun together!

Anyways-Kat-did I mention I was so excited for you?? :) Maybe once or twice!? Whitney will be SO loved!

Have a great Wednesday!
~S

response to doubt

2009-01-13T18:56:00.000-08:00

So many of you have responded to my last post. Sorry to be such a downer, it just REALLY got to me and I needed to hear other throughts. I am so lucky to have all of you and your thoughts and prayers. I am working through these questions and you have all helped me to move forward in my faith. That is for sure a BLESSING provided by God. I have decided to post a copy of my sister's response. Her's is just one of many that have begun to fill my heart back up. I would post Mandy's too, but there are things in the message that I am just not prepared to share yet.

I love you all and thank you for being my (for lack of a better term) faith support. I would NEVER be this far without all of you. You know who you are! I love you all....

"Biblically speaking, sin entered the world when Adam and Eve chose to eat from the forbidden fruit. It was then that the angel Gabriel (who we know as satan) fell from heaven into hell. Thus creating the battle between good and evil. The truth is that we live in a broken world. There is sin, ugliness, hatred, disgusting thiings that happen. Not because God lets them happen...but because this world is BROKEN. People are BROKEN. If you believe there is a heaven and there is good, then there has to be a counter to that, unfortunately. There is hell, there is evil, and unfortunately we are all touched by some of those things because we are in this world, this broken, sad world. But the bible tells us that we are not OF this world. We are created in his image to be his light in this broken world. When you weep, He weeps with you, when you are joyful, He laughs with you. HE LOVES YOU. Think of it as you would a child and parent. Parents bring children into this world because before that child is born, they love them, they want an extension of themselves, someone that will live on and experience wonderful things. But with life comes some heartache. Things happen to children that parents can't stop, but time and again that child will return to their parent because that is where they feel safe, and known, and loved unconditionally. Parents will spend their lives trying to protect their children from hurt, but despite that, life happens. We are touched by the hurts of this world, and we are never the same. But life can still be beautiful. It can still be meaningful. God wants nothing but the best for you. That doesn't mean that we are completely protected from the evil in the world. I wish it did. But while we are in the world it is a reality. God did not create you to be in pain. He does not like these hurts any more than you do. But they are a reality. He will be there when you question, He will be there when you turn to him, and he will be there if you choose to turn away from him. You are his daughter. If you don't believe anything else right now...believe that He loves you more than you know. Even if you can't love Him back right now...hold on to that."

fear and hope

2009-01-11T16:52:00.000-08:00

This one might be a long one kids....hold on with me.

We just returned home from a sermon at church today about why bad things happen and how we can be better Christians to those going through the suffering.

I am really, really confused right now. I was really looking forward to today's sermon and hoping to find answers, when really, I have so many more questions. Pastor Adam suggested that God doesn't make bad things happen to people, he just walks through them with us. Okay, I can understand that, but then, who makes the bad things happen? Why do they have to happen? And really, if God doesn't make the bad things happen, then does he make the good things happen? And why only the good and not the bad? And if he can't make the good or bad things happen, then what's the point? Why do we thank him for our blessings if he isn't in control of them?

The scary thing is, this shakes everything I have believed in. And during the sufferings I have gone through, I turn back to God and say "there is a plan" and put my faith in him. Believing in him provides me with hope. But now I am questioning why? What can he really do about it? And if he can do things that are loving, why not provide more of these things during suffering. I don't see that. I don't understand.

I am scared. I am going through things right now, at this very moment that I turned over to God, but am now wondering why? How am I going to get through it if no one has control?

Hump day!

2009-01-07T18:45:00.000-08:00

Get your mind out of the gutter! HA!

It's Wednesday, we made it through half of the week! Way to go! You can do it, only 2 more days!

I have this weekend off (thank you Lord) and am planning on going with 5 other women to the large bridal show at the Convention Center. I know, you are thinking "She must be crazy" :) However, one of my very bestest friends in KC is getting married in September and she has been waiting through 13 years (yes, I said years) of dating to get to this point. So we are all READY to get this party started! I don't normally like to be around brides on my day off as they are enough to work with at work, but we are going to do it for her!

Anyways, how was your day? Did you have anything fun happen? Did you just barely make it through the day? Don't worry, put your cares to God and be confident that he will walk with you through it. Blessings today? Thank God and be confident he was walking through those blessings with you!

You all are always in my thoughts. I pray for you often!

Happy Hump Day!
~S

Merry Christmas, Happy New Year...and all that jazz

2009-01-03T18:48:00.000-08:00

Hi! Sorry for the delay...things are just coming down from a whirlwind of activity over the holidays. I was a good girl this year and got lots of goodies from Ryan's family. My family will be doing our Christmas in a few weeks when we head home for my dad's retirement party.

We spent New Year's Eve with friends out to dinner and a few rousing games of bowling. Then after many beverages (not me, I was the DD. Go figure) they wanted to go to IHOP for snacks/breakfast/dinner. Keep in mind, this was a 1:3o am. We didn't get back to our house until 2:30. I then realized that at 29, I am NOT equiped to stay out that late any more. I am too old. We had a great time but I am still catching up on my sleep!

I am ready for a fresh start in 2009 and am looking forward to bigger and better things. Things are going to happen in our lives, I just know it. Look for good stuff from the Geiter household. Someday, sometime, miracles are coming!

I hope you are all having a wonderful weekend! Look forward to reading about your adventures in 2009!
Love
~S

This one's for you Kat!

2008-12-22T14:28:00.000-08:00

Okay, so Kat promised me that someone would find my boring life somewhat interesting. Umm, my friends may find it interesting to read, but only because I pay them. :)

Here is our latest info-Ryan's mom and dad, SIL and BIL are coming to our house for Christmas dinner. I can't really post much about that because really, I don't have anything nice to say. All I know is that I am buying myself an awesome Christmas gift for surviving this week. Seriously. Coach is calling my name. Loudly.

I have to work Saturday, Dec. 27th as I have 3 weddings and family reunion. Craziness. I can't imagine planning a wedding two days after Christmas. Way to much chaos for me. But they are excited and it should be fun.

After that, our plans include laying low for a week on vaca. Ryan will celebrate his 31st birthday on the 30th. After his surprise party last year, this year will be extremely low key. I may just take him to McDonald's for dinner. He is so spoiled. I get Coach, he gets McDonald's. Now you know how our marriage works. :)

Then back to the grind after the new year. I am very blessed to have my job and know things could get hairy next year based on what the economy does. With businesses cutting back, the first thing to go is travel. Not so good for the hotel industry. We'll keep praying.

Alright, that was boring enough! Love to you all this Christmas and if I don't post again until after Christmas....MERRY CHRISTMAS TO ALL!

Love~
S

I matter...

2008-12-18T19:54:00.000-08:00

Thank you. Thank you for posting about friends and how much they truly impact our lives.

You have made me feel today that I matter. That I am worthwhile to someone and that I have made a difference. In all of the crazy things that are thrown at us in life, that I have made a difference. Thank you for that. Thank you for filling my heart. After the year of dissapointments and heartache, your post filled me back up. Even if for today, I know that I matter to you. I know it may seem silly, but means more to me that you could EVER understand.

I am blessed beyond the heavens with you beside me.

Just wanted you to know....

Back to "normal"

2008-11-24T19:18:00.000-08:00

Okay, so my last post was kind of out there. But as I am sure you could tell, I had enough! :)

So I would say now, I'm back to "normal" :) I was reading a post from Carrie Saunders, one of the blogs followed by my bestest Mandy, and her devotion today was what I needed! Thank you Carrie!

As you may have read in previous posts, Ryan and I "adopted" a senior citizen for Christmas. They are usually members of a home that do not have a lot of family or friends, or loved ones to take care of them. We recieved her wishlist today and I burst into tears. Her requests were for only two things, a new set of bath towels and a juicer. That's it. That's all. No fancy items, no super expensive things, just two simple requests. All I could think is that all of this year there were so many things that I "wanted", some more complicated than others, but you know what I mean. We are so blessed to have food on the table, a warm home and jobs that treat us well.

Friends and family in abundance so that we really aren't "wanting" for anything. I think that in my 29 years on this earth, I am more grateful today than some people at 80 years old. How could we go though life ignoring all of the things that get us through each day. Thank you Lord for the strength you have given me and for the grace to realize that. What a powerful feeling.

So, in this week of thanks, I give thanks for all of you. You have made me who I am today and I couldn't get through the "wants" without you. You are my blessings and I thank God for you.

Have a wonderful thanksgiving!
~S

Crap

2008-11-19T18:30:00.000-08:00

Crap, Crap, Crap. I feel like that is all I have "gotten" to deal with lately.

Where is it continually okay for people to continue to make excuses. I am so done with it. People at work, people out at the restaurants and stores. Why do you think we are where we are? Excuses. Could someone just please stand up and take responsibility for their actions instead of blaming it on someone else? Life is not fair. It sucks sometimes. And sometimes you just need to buck up and do what you need to make it through. Seriously. GET OVER IT! You are not entitled to anything and everything that you want.

Sorry, but I have just reached my limit of bull sh*t and I want to punch someone in the face with the next excuse I hear!

Okay, I am done. It was an angry post but needed to get it out!

~S

Faith Day

2008-11-16T03:52:00.000-08:00

It's Sunday (my Saturday)!!! And it's my faith day. A day when I need to be reminded of all that I have with my faith in the Lord and that I am not in "need" of anything. I have a wonderful husband, home, puppy, family, friends and the list goes on and on. I am looking forward to renewing that faith today at church and enjoying time with my family for dinner.

Ryan and I have been talking and realizing that this Christmas, with all that is going on, that we are hoping to adopt a "senior citizen". Our local radio station has an "adopt a thon" and they have families as well as senior citizen's that are in need of assistance. I am hoping that we can provide someone with a things that might make their holiday as love filled as ours will be.

So many agencies in KC are looking for help this holiday season as there are so many more people in need. If you have a few extra cans of vegetables, or an old toy, or some blankets and coats not in use anymore, drop them off at one of the many locations in your area that could use them. This holiday season, with so much uncertainty, I am certain that we will be able to make a difference in someone's life.

Happy faith day to you all!
~S

We're baaaack!

2008-11-04T18:24:00.001-08:00

We made it back from our week long vaca in Savannah, GA and we had a great time! It was definetely a place that you instantly relax as the town moves a little slower and is much more calm! It must be the southern hospitality. It was wonderful and we definetely said we would need to go back. We also went to see the ocean and again, pretty sure I could live there!

We are watching the election updates...it should be interesting. Most could probably guess my vote, but I hope no matter what that the country unites to get us out of this time of uncertainty. I think my picture above pretty much sums it up!

Love to all of you!

2 am...really?

2008-10-24T00:00:00.000-07:00

Again with the "I can't sleep", so I will post a new blog! (I seriously need some sleep)

So many things going on in the last week. I received a bonus at work, my old company is laying off 1/3 of their work force, my family back home has been going through HUGE ups and downs and in 5 days we leave for Savannah! Ahh!

Have I ever mentioned I am so glad to have my job? I love what I do and wouldn't trade it for the world. I am so blessed and with everything going on right now in the economy, I have to thank God for that blessing everyday. I am praying for all of you at Sunflower who will find out their fate next week. I can't imagine the stress you are going through, but know that you will get through it. Please let me know if there is anything I can do to help!

It's Friday! I am hoping to get a lot done at work today so that I may go work out before coming home to do more laundry and pack! Luckily I am off Saturday and Sunday of this weekend and look forward to running lots of errands like normal people do!

Have a wonderful day!
~S

Saturday's

2008-10-18T06:51:00.001-07:00

Are great days! It is beautiful here today, I am sorry I have to work but will hopefully make it a short day.

We are so busy in the next few weeks-Savannah for a week, my sister-n-law's baby shower, Coldplay concert and then off to Iowa for Thanksgiving! Lots of fun things to do.

Other than that, Belle and I are enjoying our "quiet" time together! HA! She waited by the door last night, hoping that Ryan was coming home. She was sad when he didn't come. Seriously, boys and their dogs. It's amazing.

Hope everyone has a GREAT Saturday! Go Hawks!

~S

Mom

2008-10-15T18:44:00.000-07:00

I hope you are reading this blog! My mom didn't know that I "blogged" so I forwarded her my site! I love you momma! Miss you!

Today was pretty uneventful, I say that, but I just got home from running all day. We had our neighborhood social commitee meeting tonight. I am so lucky that I have AWESOME neighbors and we all get along so well. It's so funny, I used to feel out of place because Ryan and I don't have kids-we are the only couple without kids, but they love us just the same and have been a huge support with all that we have gone through.

Ryan is going on his annual fly fisherman's weekend this weekend! Free time to myself! I can't lie, I will miss him, but am looking for some time to myself! I will be getting ready for our trip! Two weeks from today we will be in Savannah!

I hope you all have a GREAT day!
Love
~S

Having faith...

2008-10-12T19:40:00.000-07:00

tonight at church our pastor reminded us that even when life is in crisis mode (whether it be financial, emotional or physical) we need to continue to remember that the Lord is and always will be our rock. On top of this rock we can see a clearer picture of what is out there for us. To put our faith in him that he will continue to walk with us.

He presented one of my favorite verses tonight: Phillipians 4:6-7

"Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus."

This message was a great one today and it also came on a day that I also received a note from Ms. Kat Bass, who I may have may never met in person, but I can tell you this, she is a strong woman and is going to be a GREAT mommy. I am praying that the faith shown through this verse continues to find her and Eric in their journey. I know that he is guiding them down a path that may not be clear right now, but in his own time will bring a happiness that only he can provide.

I am praying for you guys and please let me know if I can help in anyway!!! (P.S. If you need someone to call and give the agency an earful-I have unlimited minutes!! :))

Well, it's off to bed, I am off tomorrow and plan on doing laundry-We leave for Savannah in 17 days! Paula Deen here I come!! :)

One last thing...

2008-10-08T19:14:00.000-07:00

Really? Jamie Lynn Spears pregnant again? Really? Does this make anone else extremely annoyed? Obviously at this point it is just rumors, but again, really?

Sometimes I just don't quite understand the reasoning....I guess that is God's way of reminding me of SOMETHING. I haven't figured it out yet?

If anyone else has, let me know.

Good days and bad days...

2008-10-08T18:28:00.000-07:00

Hmm, how funny the tides turn. One day can be a very good day where you fall asleep and stay asleep. Yet the next can be one of anger, dissapointment and frustration. But, we'll get through it, as we always do.

I am currently watching the Biggest Loser on tv. It always inspires me to get moving! I gained 10 pounds when I was pregnant and have since lost that weight which is good, but I have much more to go. Since we are going to be in Savannah in 3 weeks, so my new slogan is "Skinier by Savannah". I would like to lose at least 5 more pounds by the time we leave. We shall see!

Thanks for the video's Mandy-I love seeing them. They make it a good day! :)

Love~
S

It's 1:30 am...

2008-10-03T23:39:00.000-07:00

and I am wide awake! I have that super fun trait that means my brain never shuts off! So, maybe if I get something down on paper, it will help me get back to sleep!

Today is my "Friday" at work. A foster family conference, 2 weddings and a 50th anniversary party all in one day! It will be crazy, but hopefully will go by fast! It's amazing how quickly our staff works. So much going on, but they make everything run like clockwork!

We had date night last night-nothing to fabulous, but we watched "Sex in the City"-one of my all time favorite movies! If you haven't seen it yet, I highly recommend it!

Alissa-I love the Hallmark comment! :) They should totally put that on a card!

Well, I suppose it should be back to bed...hope you all have a great Saturday!

Love,
~S

Genetically Compatible

2008-10-02T18:44:00.000-07:00

Well, we got our test results back and whoo, we are genetically compatible. Good news as if we weren't we would be in a VERY different place right now. Our next step is a doctor's appointment on Monday. Basically they will start all over again and hopefully (everyone pray really hard) this time will be even more successful. I don't know that I could handle a 4th miscarriage, but I am not going to focus on that.

I am going to focus on the fact that I may have to give myself a shot everyday for the first trimester! Fun fun! Because of my protien C difficiency, I will need the blood thinner to help transfer blood to the baby. I do not have a clotting condition, just thick blood. Who would have thought....

Anyways, just a quick note for today, but for all of you out there going through a similar situation...I am praying for you!

With love,
~S

exhausted....

2008-09-30T16:24:00.000-07:00

from a long day at work. I have been at work since 6:30 this morning and just got home. I know it is still not as long as some of you work but I am ready to hit the sack!

Our doctor's office called today-they didn't leave a message which worries me a little (okay a lot). Our genetic testing was supposed to be back weeks ago. I am not sure what to think. Hopefully I will be able to get some sleep tonight before I frantically call them back at 9 am tomorrow morning! :) Send good thoughts!

My sister and I have begun to trade bible verses with each other each week as encouragment. It is the best idea we have had in a long time! It is very refreshing to see the bible from someone else's view. I highly advise starting a "bible verse trade"! I liken it to lunch in elementary school when you want to trade for something someone else has! :)

Have a great day!
~S

A better day....

2008-09-29T12:51:00.000-07:00

today. I don't know what it is, but it's just a better day today. I won't question things, I'll take it!

The only bad news today is that Ryan found a TERMITE in our house. Not good. Actually a blessing in disguise. We had a few companies come out and look and all of them said that we caught it VERY early. We have no damage to our house, structurally or cosmetically. We will have it treated in the next week and will be good. It sucks because our house is ony 5 years old! They said that sprinkler systems and mulch are things that they feed on so just an FYI. Also, it only takes 3-5 years before termites will show up in a house. Things to look for are mud tunnels, soft drywall (they eat the drywall paper before eating the wood) and an abundance of ants. Also, the most common place for termites to come is from under your front porch. The one Ryan found actually came out of the drywall by our front porch. We are very lucky that we caught them so early! Keep an eye out folks!

So anyways, despite the icky bugs, it's a good day! Sorry for the bug lesson, but it's something to be aware of!

I hope all of you had a good day too!

~S

Just ask for help....

2008-09-25T20:22:00.000-07:00

There are somedays when I think we forget that we have a million (okay, I'm exagerating), but a lot of different people around that can help us. But only if we ask. We sometimes get so caught up in the situation that we forget our friends and family aren't mind readers. If we need something, we have to speak up!

We are not alone, but will be as long as we focus on the bad, and not the positives in our lives.

So, if anyone needs me, I'M HERE! Just ask!

Love ya!
S

Retirement...

2008-09-24T18:13:00.000-07:00

So my dad "retired" on Monday of this week. He will be using sick time/vaca time to finish out the rest of the year. His official date will be January 5th. I am SO proud of him. He has been a blue collar worker all of his life, but did it so that my sister and I would have a better life. It has been fun watching him cross off each day on the calendar! It has been happy and sad for him as he had to clean out his locker after being at that job for 32 YEARS! It is amazing.

Only 30 more years to go for me! :) I can't complain, I love what I do and will keep doing it as long as I can!

On a side note, has anyone else ever been to Howl at the Moon? I went there on Saturday night with a group of our neighbors and had a great time. It was hilarious. If you have never been and there is one around you, I definitely recommend you go!

Laundry is calling so have a great evening!
~S

Things to smile about...

2008-09-22T19:23:00.000-07:00

Okay Mandy, you inspired me. I am back on the blog wave. I figured since I was the only one on your list that hadn't edited their blog in over a year, it was about time.

I have a few things to get down tonight.

First of all, for those of you who don't know, a month ago we learned that we had lost our third pregnancy in the 3rd month of the pregnancy. While it has been a rollercoaster of emotions from one day to the next, it seems that I have made it this far without completely losing it. I have found much strength through my family, friends, wonderful husband, and a little bit of the Lord. I have many questions for him, but will have to continue to trust in his plan. Whether it be my "ideal" plan, I HAVE to know that it is in his hands.

So on that note, I thought I would share a bright spot in the day. I recently spent two weeks in Memphis, TN working at the downtown Marriott. It was an interesting trip and there were many emotions going on at that time. However, I became close with one of the girls there, Melody, and we had a lot of fun hanging out together. We ended up going to Graceland together and seeing the sights of Elvis. Very interesting, quite amusing and loads of fun. We learned that Elvis' favorite saying was "Takin' Care of Buisness". It meant so much to him he had "TCB" with a large lighting bolt painted on the large back wing of his personal airplane. Melody and I loved the saying! Long story short, (sorry, it's already long but you know what I mean! :)) after I left, she bought me a magnet with "TCB" and a lighting bolt and ended up sending it to me in the mail. It arrived today. A day in which I needed to be reminded that through this process, we just need to "take care of business". It isn't always easy, but we get through it the best we know how. I put the magnet up on the door to my office to remind me each day of what it will take. Just to push through one more day with a few more smiles, a few more laughs and a few more good memories.

Okay, so that's about it. Thank you for reading the long post, I am off to a good start!

One more thank you to my 2 favorite girls. I love you and love reading about the fun you are having. Keep it coming!

Until tomorrow!
~S