1. You are absolutely and undeniably unique. You are one of a kind, and there is no one like you in the world. BE YOURSELF. It will draw people to you for the rest of your life.
2. Life is not a race. Never compare yourself to where the people around you are. Your plan is different than anyone else’s plan. Remember that.
3. Always set goals. Even small ones. We are creatures of progression. Post your goals where you can see them and always picture yourself accomplishing them.
4. Lists are your friend. Make them, and enjoy the glorious feeling of crossing off an item.
5. Step outside your comfort zone. You’ll be surprised.
6. You’re never too old to dream. Carpe diem!
7. Everything is always okay in the end. If it’s not okay, then it’s not the end.
8. Nothing you do can make me stop loving you.
9. Pay attention to the way your daddy and I treat each other. We want that for you someday.
10. Beauty truly comes from the inside. Believe that. The media lies. Don’t compare yourself or your looks. Comparison is the thief of joy. You were made in God’s image. He doesn’t make mistakes. You ARE beautiful.
11. Read your scriptures. It has the answers to all the problems you’ll face. And if you don’t think so, read harder.
12. We don’t stop playing when we get old. We get old because we stop playing.
13. Friends will make or break you. Seek out good friends. Be the kind of friend you wish you had.
14. Don’t be a people-pleaser. Just be honest and do what’s right, even if it’s not popular. Stay true to you.
15. Live alone at least once in your life. You will learn more about yourself in that time than you ever can imagine.
16. When you start feeling sorry for yourself, find someone to serve. Do something nice for someone. Making cookies is a good start. Cooking can soothe one's soul. You'll feel better by being in the kitchen and doing something for someone else and they'll feel better when you deliver homemade treats to their door. I always feel at peace in the kitchen and when I can make things for others.
17. Chronic complaining is unattractive. Develop your problem solving skills. If you aren’t willing to make the proper change, you aren’t allowed to whine about the problem.
18. There are things animals understand, that people don’t. Cuddle one of our animals when you’re having a sad day. They'll teach you what unconditional love means.
19. Never deny an adventure.
20. Don’t lose the eternal perspective. As long as you can remember that Heavenly Father knows what he is doing, small trials become trivial. He sees more than we do, and it’s all for something.
21. NOTHING in the world is more important than Heaven. Always keep getting to Heaven as your goal, and stay worthy of it once you’re there. No activity, drink, behavior, or lifestyle is better than the blessings Heaven holds. I promise that. Get there. Stay there.
22. Keep a journal. Write your story. It’s therapy.
23. Your daddy works so hard to support our family. He loves me and you so much. He makes time to laugh and have fun with us every single day. He is happy and patient. I don’t know how he does it, but make sure you find someone like him to marry.
24. Don’t be afraid to do things by yourself.
25. Part of doing things yourself is making mistakes. Mistakes can always be fixed.
26. You never know who is watching and looking up to you. Never forget that you are always an example to someone.
27. Be kind to everyone. Even strangers. You don’t know what they are going through. Treat everyone you meet like it’s their birthday.
28. Hard work will get you further than anything in life.
29. Learn to see the beauty in the world. It’s all around. You just have to open your eyes.
30. Take road trips often.
31. There is more to life than money. Money can never make you happy. Debt will rot your soul. Avoid unnecessary debt.
32. Music is a language best understood by the heart. Your Uncle Chase writes his own music...ask him to have a jam session some time. He would love to teach you what he knows about life.
33. Don’t believe anyone who says Van Halen, U2, Rolling Stones, Miles Davis, Marvin Gaye and any of the class acts are lame. They paved our way for music.
34. Laugh every single day. A sense of humor is worth gold.
35. Happiness is a journey. It’s a mood. It is NOT a destination. You can be happy amidst trials.
36. Always eat a healthy breakfast.
37. A bowl of popcorn and Singing In the Rain will mend a heart. Gene Kelly and his tap-dancing feet will take your problems away for 1.5 hours.
38. Camping is one of life’s greatest pleasures. Do it at least once a year.
39. True love is doing the dishes together and inside jokes over silly things.
40. You’re never too busy for a long bubble bath.
41. Celebrate your heritage. It’s good to be Greek. Your YaYa is one of the most amazing women who’s lived. Learn about her. Follow her example. You're also German....your PaPa is one of the most courageous, inspiring men I know. If you're ever feeling stuck in a rut and need a pep talk...he's definitely your man. You're also Polish...your Uncle Matt has some amazing work ethic and he's genuine. Save some good questions for him, he'll brighten your world.
42. I will never get mad at you for staying up too late reading a good book.
43. Be detail oriented. You know your mama is!
44. Good ole pretend will never go out of style.
45. No excuses. Just woman-up and get things done!
46. A good pair of running shoes is an investment. I hope we go on many runs together.
47. Trust takes a long time to earn, be so careful to not break that with your friends and family.
48. Make friends with your cousins. Those relationships get even better with age.
49. Treat yourself to a cold Dr. Pepper (preferably one with real cane sugar)...your daddy will happily split one with you.
50. There’s no such thing as too many pillows.
51. Your name holds special meaning to us. We'll never grow old of telling you the story. Ask us any time.
52. A strong man isn’t threatened by a strong woman.
53. Womanhood is a gift.
54. The painful truth is always better than a messy lie.
55. Good communication is a skill that should always be worked on.
56. When it rains, pause to go jump in a puddle. Dance, while you’re at it.
57. Never go months without a washer and dryer. Save your sanity. Learn from your silly parents.
58. Understand your worth. If someone isn’t willing to treat you like a daughter of God, they aren’t worth your time. Don’t ever ever settle just to save yourself from being alone.
59. Girls can like Super Heroes too.
60. Never play the victim. If bad things happen, it’s for a reason. We rise from the ashes. We don’t feel sorry for ourselves.
61. Wickedness can NEVER be happiness.
62. Faith has a short shelf life. Never assume you’re “safe” from falling. I made that mistake, and it was hard to fix. But always remember, it CAN be fixed. It is just really really hard.
63. God's forgiveness and love is for more than just sins. It is for broken hearts, sadness, depression, struggles, and anything you need strength for. He is always available for use. Don’t ignore him. Talk to him, he will help you heal.
64. It’s not your place to judge. Ever.
65. Forgive. Even when they never say sorry.
66. Don’t ever count on somebody else to make you happy. Ever.
67. There’s no shame in having birthday cake pancakes for breakfast. After all it's only once a year.
68. Be brave enough to try new foods at least once.
69. Fresh strawberries on vanilla ice cream is the best thing you will eat all summer long.
70. Be the first to volunteer when someone needs help.
71. Go to the mountains often, even if only on a drive.
72. Get a library card.
73. Fight for what matters. Learn your passion and always follow it.
74. Learn something from everyone.
75. Nobody likes a know-it-all.
76. Mean everything you say. Keep your word. Don’t trifle words.
77. Don’t live in the past. You can’t drive forward if you’re stuck looking in a rear view mirror. You will keep crashing. Look FORWARD, and occasionally glance back to keep things in check.
78. Don’t wait for things to happen. Make them happen.
79. Drink lots of water.
80. Most of the things you worry about never happen.
81. I will always want to hear from you.
82. Being passive aggressive is immature. When you have a problem with something or someone, do the right thing and talk to them about it. It’s hard. But it’s better.
83. Never attack the person. Attack the problem.
84. It never hurts to ask.
85. You can’t change what people think about you. Be your best self, and that is enough.
86. Each season brings in the best weather. Live up each season. Wear your favorite boots in the fall with your Denver Broncos shirt, where your your colorful scarf in the winter, wear your sundress in the spring while running through blue bonnets and wear your go-to flip flops in the summer when we go to the beach in Michigan. Embrace God's gifts for each season.
87. If you’re bored, organize your closet.
88. Go thrift shopping with your NeNe, she has an incredible eye and will show you that consignment stores hold many treasures!
89. Girls can use power tools too. Just ask your daddy to help teach you first.
90. Get to know yourself. And LOVE yourself. But remember, it’s not always about YOU. Think of others, and be there to lift them up.
91. Your life has a reason, and you have a great work to do. Look for opportunities around you to make a difference.
92. Being consistent is the best way to not have drama.
93. Pay your bills on time.
94. People watching is never a waste of time. Just don't be impolite.
95. If someone tells you getting your pilot’s license (or anything for that matter) is impossible, they are wrong.YOU can do ANYTHING you put your mind to. Have faith.
96. You are a creation of two people’s eternal love. No one has loved anyone more than I love your dad.
97. Marry someone who is fun to be around and makes you laugh. If you can’t laugh together when you accidentally drop your steaming hot pie all over the kitchen floor, you’re going to have a hard time.
98. Climb trees.
99. Take LOTS of pictures.
100. God is in control. But he wants to see what you can do in this life. You are the captain of your soul.
Monday, January 27, 2014
Thursday, January 2, 2014
Halen Rae Carol
On Friday, December 13th your daddy and I took the day off of work. This was the next big milestone in our journey to meet you...20 weeks. This is the appointment where we could actually see you and find out your gender. We invited your Yaya and Aunt Dana to come along. I dressed up warm on this rainy day, giddy for what would unfold. We arrived to the doctor's office and were directed downstairs with the sonogram specialist. She got me all set up on the table and squirted that cool gel on my belly. In no time your daddy and I could see you...your little feet, your nose, your legs, your arms! We were amazed. There you were. We smiled and just stared at you. Your Yaya got teary eyed, her second grandbaby was officially on the way. Aunt Dana took pictures of daddy and I wrapped up in this bubble of elation.
We told the specialist that we didn't want to know the gender at the appointment...oh no we had a plan. :) We had created two separate papers that would tell us if we were having a boy or a girl and put your name on each one. So when the time came to look at your parts the specialist told us to look away. Our hearts skipped a beat and we tried to divert our attention to the company in the room. After the appointment, we went upstairs to meet with our doctor, Doctor Swenson. She told us that everything looked beautiful and she was excited to see us in another month. 
We left the appointment, excitedly hugged your Yaya and Aunt Dana then went about our way to enjoy our weekend. We went to a cozy breakfast at Kerby Lane then went to check in at the Driskill Hotel. The letter and picture telling us your gender was practically burning a hole in our pocket. We just kept catching silly glances at each other. Each secretly wondering what you would be. We hurriedly set our things down and made our way to our spot. As soon as we were on the balcony (the same place your daddy proposed) your daddy opened the envelope that would change our lives forever. As soon as I saw the pink border I squealed with excitement. Then the envelope unveiled: "It's a GIRL!" "Halen Rae Carol is on her way!" Your daddy and I were beside ourselves. Sidenote: Now your daddy only cries at the best moments possible. He cried when he proposed, on our wedding day, when I told him we were having a baby and now he was getting his baby girl.
We enjoyed the Driskill bar over a glass of homemade egg nog then had reservations at Austin Land & Cattle steakhouse, it was impeccable. We ordered the escargot as an appetizer, heirloom tomato, roasted onion, parmesan salad, and for our main courses: your daddy went bold and ordered himself a rare filet mignon, where I ordered the seared duck breast. We added the truffle macaroni and cheese and twice baked broccoli. The dinner was divine. 
For dessert we went to the Four Seasons Hotel for crème brulee and to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Christmas season. We went back to our hotel to float on cloud nine in between Egyptian cotton sheets. The next morning after the Driskill hotel generously purchased our brunch: homemade cinnamon roll, huevos rancheros, hangover burger, coffee and tea; we decided to continue our shopping spree for our little girl. We found some fun treasures and I never thought your daddy would love the color pink so much!
Our next plan was to keep this our secret until the next week so we could unveil your gender to all our closest friends and family members. But your Papa and Uncle Chase had a really difficult time with this. They constantly called me, texted me to ask about your gender. They were trying so hard to make me tell! But I knew it was just because they were so excited. On December 20th, we had everyone over for a housewarming party/gender reveal. I had made some sweet and savory bites for our guests to enjoy: Swedish meatballs (okay okay, Ikea made those ;) ), Bacon Wrapped Bleu Cheese Stuffed Dates, Scallion Cheese Ball, BBQ Sausages, Santa S'more Cookies, Peppermint Fudge and more. Our guests started to arrive and Evan and I were thrilled to finally share our news. The time came and we had prepared light pink ornaments which we wrote your name on in a darker pink glitter glue. We wrapped them up and stuck them in our Christmas tree. When the time came to tell, we passed the packages around and told everyone to open them at the same time. Everyone was SO excited to hear we were having a girl! Your Yaya was in tears, your Papa (who really wanted a little granddaughter) had a huge smile on his face.
So many people love you before they even know you! Your Aunt Dana can't wait to raise her lil Piper with my lil Halen...future BFFs! Nisey, Julie and Jenna are so excited to babysit you and hold you. Your Uncle Matt renamed his man cave to Man Halen. Your Uncle Chase is tickled pink. That's how we introduced you to the world our little Halen. We cannot wait to meet you.
Keep on kickin' little lady! xoxox Mama & Daddy
Tuesday, December 17, 2013
For you
Hello baby. I've been hearing this song on the radio and every time I hear it tears well up in my eyes, I grasp my belly and think of you. I find myself singing this song through my blurry tears to you. I've decided to dedicate this song to you. It is exactly how I feel. Except I made one major revision... you will NOT be leaving me first, my darling,...I will be passing on before you. So here are my updated lyrics. This song is "Gone, gone, gone" by Phillip Phillips.
When life leaves you high and dry
I'll be at your door tonight
If you need help, if you need help.
I'll shut down the city lights,
I'll lie, cheat, I'll beg and bribe
To make you well, to make you well.
When enemies are at your door
I'll carry you away from war
If you need help, if you need help.
Your hope dangling by a string
I'll share in your suffering
To make you well, to make you well.
You've given reasons to believe
That you would do the same for me.
I would do it for you, for you.
Baby, I'm not moving on
I love you long after I'm gone.
For you, for you.
You will never sleep alone.
I love you long after I'm gone
And long after I'm gone, gone, gone.
When you fall like a statue
I'm gon' be there to catch you
Put you on your feet, you on your feet.
And if your well is empty
Not a thing will prevent me.
Tell me what you need, what do you need?
I surrender honestly.
You've always done the same for me.
So I would do it for you, for you.
Baby, I'm not moving on,
I love you long after I'm gone.
For you, for you.
You will never sleep alone.
I love you long after I'm gone
And long after I'm gone, gone, gone.
You're my back bone.
You're my cornerstone.
You're my crutch when my legs stop moving.
You're my head start.
You're my rugged heart.
You're the pulse that I've always needed.
Like a drum, baby, don't stop beating.
Like a drum, baby, don't stop beating.
Like a drum, baby, don't stop beating.
Like a drum my heart never stops beating...
For you, for you.
Baby, I'm not moving on.
I love you long after I'm gone.
For you, for you.
You will never sleep alone.
I love you long after I'm gone.
For you, for you.
Baby, I'm not moving on,
I love you long after I'm gone.
For you, for you.
You will never sleep alone.
I love you long, long after I'm gone.
Like a drum, baby, don't stop beating.
Like a drum, baby, don't stop beating.
Like a drum, baby, don't stop beating.
Like a drum my heart never stops beating for you.
And long after I'm gone, gone, gone.
I love you long after I'm gone, gone, gone.
I'll be at your door tonight
If you need help, if you need help.
I'll shut down the city lights,
I'll lie, cheat, I'll beg and bribe
To make you well, to make you well.
When enemies are at your door
I'll carry you away from war
If you need help, if you need help.
Your hope dangling by a string
I'll share in your suffering
To make you well, to make you well.
You've given reasons to believe
That you would do the same for me.
I would do it for you, for you.
Baby, I'm not moving on
I love you long after I'm gone.
For you, for you.
You will never sleep alone.
I love you long after I'm gone
And long after I'm gone, gone, gone.
When you fall like a statue
I'm gon' be there to catch you
Put you on your feet, you on your feet.
And if your well is empty
Not a thing will prevent me.
Tell me what you need, what do you need?
I surrender honestly.
You've always done the same for me.
So I would do it for you, for you.
Baby, I'm not moving on,
I love you long after I'm gone.
For you, for you.
You will never sleep alone.
I love you long after I'm gone
And long after I'm gone, gone, gone.
You're my back bone.
You're my cornerstone.
You're my crutch when my legs stop moving.
You're my head start.
You're my rugged heart.
You're the pulse that I've always needed.
Like a drum, baby, don't stop beating.
Like a drum, baby, don't stop beating.
Like a drum, baby, don't stop beating.
Like a drum my heart never stops beating...
For you, for you.
Baby, I'm not moving on.
I love you long after I'm gone.
For you, for you.
You will never sleep alone.
I love you long after I'm gone.
For you, for you.
Baby, I'm not moving on,
I love you long after I'm gone.
For you, for you.
You will never sleep alone.
I love you long, long after I'm gone.
Like a drum, baby, don't stop beating.
Like a drum, baby, don't stop beating.
Like a drum, baby, don't stop beating.
Like a drum my heart never stops beating for you.
And long after I'm gone, gone, gone.
I love you long after I'm gone, gone, gone.
This song emphasizes all my feelings for you, before I've even held you. I love you more than you'll ever know, more than words can ever express. I've dreamt about you and prayed about you all my life. I will be there every step of the way, every tear, every yawn, every smile, every word, every milestone. I will be there, whether that is with my presence or in your heart. We will have a long a beautiful life journey together. And I am elated for April to arrive so we can start living. Love, Mommy
Monday, December 2, 2013
Marlee Moo
You have a sister. A fur-sister. Her name is Marlee Amber Wiatrek. She entered your mommy's world when your mommy was as sophomore in college at Texas State University. Your mommy had a box full of six kittens dropped off at her doorstep. I took care of them all summer and chose to keep Marlee. She looked different with all kinds of colors, was a little cross eyed and she was the runt.
We bonded instantly, I took her to college with me and we became inseparable. Marlee went everywhere I went. When I graduated college and moved to NYC, Marlee came, when I moved to Armonk, NY...Marlee came. She has moved all over the country with me. For four years it was just her and I. I understood her quirks as she did mine. She gave me kisses when I was sad and cuddles when I was lonely. But she never was the type of cat to like other people...just me.
So when your daddy came along I was nervous. I knew how important it was that Marlee like Evan. Well, Marlee sure did put up a good fight and tried so hard not to like your daddy. But your dad was determined to win her over. Then like a light switch went off she fell in love. I never thought she'd love someone as much as she loved me but... somehow it happened. So we became a happy little trio.
Then when your daddy and I got married I made your daddy adopt Marlee. So she officially became a Wiatrek. She loves her big home, runs up and down the stairs, cuddles up on the couches and cuddles with mama and daddy in our big bed.
We know a lot will change when you enter our lives. We're nervous about Marlee's reaction and hope once she realizes you're part of the family, she'll love you too.
It's important to be nice to Marlee. When you get older, make sure you let her sniff you first then she'll bow her head when she's ready for you to pet her. She may be stubborn but once she latches on to you, she'll protect you until she goes to Heaven.
So when you enter our Wiatrek world, you'll have a big fur sister who will love on you, give you kisses and just be there.
We bonded instantly, I took her to college with me and we became inseparable. Marlee went everywhere I went. When I graduated college and moved to NYC, Marlee came, when I moved to Armonk, NY...Marlee came. She has moved all over the country with me. For four years it was just her and I. I understood her quirks as she did mine. She gave me kisses when I was sad and cuddles when I was lonely. But she never was the type of cat to like other people...just me.
So when your daddy came along I was nervous. I knew how important it was that Marlee like Evan. Well, Marlee sure did put up a good fight and tried so hard not to like your daddy. But your dad was determined to win her over. Then like a light switch went off she fell in love. I never thought she'd love someone as much as she loved me but... somehow it happened. So we became a happy little trio.
Then when your daddy and I got married I made your daddy adopt Marlee. So she officially became a Wiatrek. She loves her big home, runs up and down the stairs, cuddles up on the couches and cuddles with mama and daddy in our big bed.
We know a lot will change when you enter our lives. We're nervous about Marlee's reaction and hope once she realizes you're part of the family, she'll love you too.
It's important to be nice to Marlee. When you get older, make sure you let her sniff you first then she'll bow her head when she's ready for you to pet her. She may be stubborn but once she latches on to you, she'll protect you until she goes to Heaven.
So when you enter our Wiatrek world, you'll have a big fur sister who will love on you, give you kisses and just be there.
16 Weeks
Hello my adorable avocado! (Yep that's how big you are!) Things are great lately, I am starting to feel like myself again. I want to eat healthier foods and to start working out again...life is good. At our last appointment we got to hear your heartbeat again (still at 150) and it calmed our hearts once more.
Our next appointment is to find out if you are Halen or Meyers!!! We cannot wait, I want to call you by your name so badly. If you are a girl we want to name you Halen (after Van Halen...because your mommy is named after them- Lauren Alex...the drummer is Alex Van Halen, so we wanted to carry on the tradition), then we want your middle names to be Rae (after your YaYa) and Carol (after your Grandma Carol). So Halen Rae Carol Wiatrek. :)
If you're a boy we want to name you Meyers (my maiden name) and middle name as Matthew (after your Uncle Matt). So Meyers Matthew Wiatrek. :)
Your nursery is coming along, we decided on a nautical theme focusing on whales and octopi. Your Di Di gave us your crib and we are already collecting items for you. Everyone is SO excited that you are on the way.
Thanksgiving is coming up next week and your mommy and daddy are hosting their very first thanksgiving feast at our new home. Your YaYa and I will be cooking up a storm. Side note: Have I mentioned how close your YaYa and I are? We are really close, I always loved my mom but when I started college I realized how wonderful she was and how much I truly appreciated her. She is the epitome of an unconditional, selfless mother. She is always putting Chase and I first (and now your cousin Crash). She's quite amazing, words cannot describe all that she's done for me...emotionally, spiritually, physically. She's an energizer bunny and she knows what I need before I even tell her. Ever since my first semester in college, I decided to focus on my relationship with her. I hope my relationship with you is just as close and fulfilling as mine is with your YaYa. I look forward to holding a strong relationship from the start with you. I know my goal is to attempt to fill my mom's shoes as a mom. I want to be unconditional for you, selfless, always putting your needs before my own. I decided I was ready to become a mom when I felt fulfilled as a human being on my own. Now I'm ready to be there for someone else. To watch your dreams unfold, to hear your laughter and hug away your tears. I'm so ready.
Then your best friend Piper will be entering the world so soon! Your Aunt Dana is beside herself excited and I cannot wait to meet sweet lil P. We can't wait to watch you two grow up together.
What else is going on...your daddy is in the playoffs for football with Westlake High School! Denver Broncos are doing awesome....can you say Super Bowl 2014?!
We love you baby boo. We talk all the time about how excited we are simply to be our own little family. :)
Happy belly snuggles. xoxo Mama & Daddy
Our next appointment is to find out if you are Halen or Meyers!!! We cannot wait, I want to call you by your name so badly. If you are a girl we want to name you Halen (after Van Halen...because your mommy is named after them- Lauren Alex...the drummer is Alex Van Halen, so we wanted to carry on the tradition), then we want your middle names to be Rae (after your YaYa) and Carol (after your Grandma Carol). So Halen Rae Carol Wiatrek. :)
If you're a boy we want to name you Meyers (my maiden name) and middle name as Matthew (after your Uncle Matt). So Meyers Matthew Wiatrek. :)
Your nursery is coming along, we decided on a nautical theme focusing on whales and octopi. Your Di Di gave us your crib and we are already collecting items for you. Everyone is SO excited that you are on the way.
Thanksgiving is coming up next week and your mommy and daddy are hosting their very first thanksgiving feast at our new home. Your YaYa and I will be cooking up a storm. Side note: Have I mentioned how close your YaYa and I are? We are really close, I always loved my mom but when I started college I realized how wonderful she was and how much I truly appreciated her. She is the epitome of an unconditional, selfless mother. She is always putting Chase and I first (and now your cousin Crash). She's quite amazing, words cannot describe all that she's done for me...emotionally, spiritually, physically. She's an energizer bunny and she knows what I need before I even tell her. Ever since my first semester in college, I decided to focus on my relationship with her. I hope my relationship with you is just as close and fulfilling as mine is with your YaYa. I look forward to holding a strong relationship from the start with you. I know my goal is to attempt to fill my mom's shoes as a mom. I want to be unconditional for you, selfless, always putting your needs before my own. I decided I was ready to become a mom when I felt fulfilled as a human being on my own. Now I'm ready to be there for someone else. To watch your dreams unfold, to hear your laughter and hug away your tears. I'm so ready.
Then your best friend Piper will be entering the world so soon! Your Aunt Dana is beside herself excited and I cannot wait to meet sweet lil P. We can't wait to watch you two grow up together.
What else is going on...your daddy is in the playoffs for football with Westlake High School! Denver Broncos are doing awesome....can you say Super Bowl 2014?!
We love you baby boo. We talk all the time about how excited we are simply to be our own little family. :)
Happy belly snuggles. xoxo Mama & Daddy
First Trimester
Hello my sweet plum! Yep you are as big as a plum! I am almost through my first trimester and I can feel you in every inch of me. I started off my pregnancy not thinking I would have any symptoms but alas those symptoms have arrived. The worst part is smell...every time I get a whiff of a bad odor my stomach does a flip flop. Of course, teaching freshman boys certainly does not help. Regardless, your daddy and I are beside ourselves excited.
At our second doctor's appointment we got to see another picture of you, growing, growing, growing! And then at our third doctor's appointment we got to hear your heartbeat. One of the best sounds in the world. Daddy even recorded it so we can play it anytime we want. :)
Next time we have a doctor's appointment you'll be 16 weeks in there! And the appointment after that is to find out if you're a little girl or a little boy :) I've set up a romantic night just for daddy & I to find out about you. We are so excited to have you be a part of our lives little one!
Let's see what else is going on... well mommy only feels the best when her tummy is full and when I'm in bed. :) Which doesn't happen as often as I'd like. I'm craving comfort food....mashed potatoes, pasta, bread, grilled cheese, peanut butter and bananas. I have been walking and went to a prenatal class the other day, which I loved.
My best friend, Dana, which is going to be Aunt Dana to you is in her third trimester. Your best friend, Piper, will be born the end of December or early January!!! So exciting. Dana and I look forward to rocking our babies on our front porch. :) We'll make so many awesome memories together.
Everyone thinks you are a girl, your heart rate was 150 and most say that if it's above 140 the baby is a girl...or a hyper boy! Haha. So we'll see. I am excited for you to be a boy or a girl... I just want healthy, strong and tall. :)
We love you sweet one!
Next time we have a doctor's appointment you'll be 16 weeks in there! And the appointment after that is to find out if you're a little girl or a little boy :) I've set up a romantic night just for daddy & I to find out about you. We are so excited to have you be a part of our lives little one!
Let's see what else is going on... well mommy only feels the best when her tummy is full and when I'm in bed. :) Which doesn't happen as often as I'd like. I'm craving comfort food....mashed potatoes, pasta, bread, grilled cheese, peanut butter and bananas. I have been walking and went to a prenatal class the other day, which I loved.
Everyone thinks you are a girl, your heart rate was 150 and most say that if it's above 140 the baby is a girl...or a hyper boy! Haha. So we'll see. I am excited for you to be a boy or a girl... I just want healthy, strong and tall. :)
We love you sweet one!
Friday, November 22, 2013
Who is your mama...
I wanted to write a letter all about who I am before you came along. Your YaYa and PaPa grew up in Michigan (they moved to Austin right before I was born) so I spent most of my childhood swimming in Lake Michigan, playing with my cousins, Kayla and Jordan, picking cherries, running up and down sand dunes and of course rooting for Michigan Wolverine football. I grew up an athlete, I loved playing softball and volleyball. Then I got into running...I've run a 38 1/2 mile trail run, the Austin marathon, an Olympic triathlon and quite a few sprint triathlons. I was on the triathlon team in college... I went to Texas State University. I double majored and got a degree in English and Public Relations/Marketing. As soon as I graduated I moved to New York City, I wanted to make it big. I thought I would climb the ladder and marry a banker and reside in upstate New York.
I definitely found myself in New York, I traveled, had to rely on myself and built a strong relationship with who I am. I developed many beneficial relationships in New York and rekindled ones that needed rekindling. I had an amazing time in New York...I met Tyler Florence from Food Network, Sandra Lee from Food Network, Donald Trump, LeBron James. I was part of the team that executed some fantastic events in New York City. I had a fabulous time tromping around the city, eating fondue, drinking fancy cactus margaritas, lobster rolls, the best sushi in the country at Morimoto's, drinking lychee martinis, interior Mexican food, eating Ethiopian food (with your Uncle Chase) with my bare hands! I felt like the world was my oyster and I experienced everything. I interned at Taylor PR for the summer, lived in Chelsea...Murray's Bagels was the best!!! Then in August my internship ended, I knew I wanted a job in NYC so I interviewed everywhere. I ended up getting a job in Armonk, NY which is outside of NYC. I moved with Marlee (your big fur-sister) and bought a blue jeep. I lived in an old apartment hidden in the trees. I worked for Gold n Fish Marketing and it was an awesome job. I worked amazing events and spent amazing weekends in the Big Apple.
We lived in downtown Dallas for one year, I worked as a nanny and at a catering company. I met Mandalee there! That is when I decided to become an English teacher. Then your dad was transferred to Frisco, farther north in Texas for coaching. We moved together and I started teaching. That was one of the craziest years of my life and became even crazier when your daddy proposed. We stayed in Frisco for two years and decided it was not the place for us.
Your dad got a job in Denver, Colorado...we were so excited! We moved to Colorado in June and immediately reunited with your Uncle Kurt, Aunt Kari, Aunt Sharon and all your cousins (Jeremy, Cali, Loren, Lariel, Kenzie & Jack). We had an incredible year full of adventure and travel. We skiied 13 times! We went snowmobiling, hiking, I ran a half marathon in Boulder, we went all over the state. Then your cousin Crash was born in September and as soon as he was born an ache started in my heart that wouldn't go away. After Christmas I decided I'd rather raise our family near our immediate family in Austin. In June of 2013 we moved back to Austin. After living with YaYa for the summer your daddy and I bought our first house. And barely a few weeks into living at our new house we found out about you! Now our lives seem to be on their way to being complete.
Things to know about your mama:
- I love food! I think I may be a foodie...my favorites are lox n bagels, eggs benedict, migas, your YaYa's chicken dumpling soup, your YaYa's lasagna and I LOVE cheese!
- I am an athlete, I love competition and hope after you're born I can get back into running, racing in triathlons and becoming part of a volleyball and softball team
- I love to travel. Your daddy and I hope to do a lot of traveling when you come into the world. We have SO much to show you! The sand dunes in Michigan, the ocean, Disney World, Hawaii, Europe and SO much more.
- I am very passionate about life. I love to celebrate the little things. Birthdays are ALWAYS a big deal. I love holidays, I love decorating. I love making big family meals.
- I have been praying about you all my life. I have always felt that I was meant to be a mama and now God has answered my prayers. I can't wait to feel you kick. I can't wait to find out your gender. I can't wait to hold you and welcome you to this world. I can't wait to teach you all the wonderful things God made for us on this planet. I can't wait to watch you grow and to develop a wonderful relationship.
My goals with you:
- To teach you about Jesus and how important your walk with him is
- For you to develop amazing, unique relationships with your YaYa, PaPa, Uncle Chase, Uncle Matt, Aunt DeDe, Aunt Dana, JuJu, Nicey, Aunt Jen Romberger and so many more
- To show you the world: I want you to touch, taste, feel, experience, smell and hear all the wonders of the world.
- I want to teach you how important our family unit is. And no matter what your daddy and I love you unconditionally and will ALWAYS be there for you. How important honesty, integrity and humility are. How to always cherish your relationship with your parents and siblings.
- I want to teach you about sports and your daddy and I think you'll be a fantastic volleyball player or football player!
- To teach you about believing in yourself and there's nothing you can't do...as long as you believe in yourself.
Your mama is outspoken, friendly, exciting, loving, extremely giving, sensitive, athletic, strong, supportive and most of all...ready to be your mom.
Keep growing little one! Love you to the moon and back.
~Your mama
I definitely found myself in New York, I traveled, had to rely on myself and built a strong relationship with who I am. I developed many beneficial relationships in New York and rekindled ones that needed rekindling. I had an amazing time in New York...I met Tyler Florence from Food Network, Sandra Lee from Food Network, Donald Trump, LeBron James. I was part of the team that executed some fantastic events in New York City. I had a fabulous time tromping around the city, eating fondue, drinking fancy cactus margaritas, lobster rolls, the best sushi in the country at Morimoto's, drinking lychee martinis, interior Mexican food, eating Ethiopian food (with your Uncle Chase) with my bare hands! I felt like the world was my oyster and I experienced everything. I interned at Taylor PR for the summer, lived in Chelsea...Murray's Bagels was the best!!! Then in August my internship ended, I knew I wanted a job in NYC so I interviewed everywhere. I ended up getting a job in Armonk, NY which is outside of NYC. I moved with Marlee (your big fur-sister) and bought a blue jeep. I lived in an old apartment hidden in the trees. I worked for Gold n Fish Marketing and it was an awesome job. I worked amazing events and spent amazing weekends in the Big Apple.
But after a year I started to miss family and didn't find anyone to spend my life with. I had some amazing people come and visit me including, your Aunt Dana, PaPa, Uncle Chase, YaYa, Rachel but in May I was ready to come home. I moved back to Austin and lived the life of a girl in her young 20s. Then in August I met your daddy. I think God placed him in my life on purpose, he was a solid, handsome, tall, athletic man with a heart-melting smile. He was such a gentleman and so smart! He swept me off my feet pretty quickly. We dated for seven months before he was transferred to Dallas for his football coaching position. I decided to move with him because I knew he was the love of my life and I didn't want to lose him.
We lived in downtown Dallas for one year, I worked as a nanny and at a catering company. I met Mandalee there! That is when I decided to become an English teacher. Then your dad was transferred to Frisco, farther north in Texas for coaching. We moved together and I started teaching. That was one of the craziest years of my life and became even crazier when your daddy proposed. We stayed in Frisco for two years and decided it was not the place for us. 
Your dad got a job in Denver, Colorado...we were so excited! We moved to Colorado in June and immediately reunited with your Uncle Kurt, Aunt Kari, Aunt Sharon and all your cousins (Jeremy, Cali, Loren, Lariel, Kenzie & Jack). We had an incredible year full of adventure and travel. We skiied 13 times! We went snowmobiling, hiking, I ran a half marathon in Boulder, we went all over the state. Then your cousin Crash was born in September and as soon as he was born an ache started in my heart that wouldn't go away. After Christmas I decided I'd rather raise our family near our immediate family in Austin. In June of 2013 we moved back to Austin. After living with YaYa for the summer your daddy and I bought our first house. And barely a few weeks into living at our new house we found out about you! Now our lives seem to be on their way to being complete.
Things to know about your mama:
- I love food! I think I may be a foodie...my favorites are lox n bagels, eggs benedict, migas, your YaYa's chicken dumpling soup, your YaYa's lasagna and I LOVE cheese!
- I am an athlete, I love competition and hope after you're born I can get back into running, racing in triathlons and becoming part of a volleyball and softball team
- I love to travel. Your daddy and I hope to do a lot of traveling when you come into the world. We have SO much to show you! The sand dunes in Michigan, the ocean, Disney World, Hawaii, Europe and SO much more.
- I am very passionate about life. I love to celebrate the little things. Birthdays are ALWAYS a big deal. I love holidays, I love decorating. I love making big family meals.
- I have been praying about you all my life. I have always felt that I was meant to be a mama and now God has answered my prayers. I can't wait to feel you kick. I can't wait to find out your gender. I can't wait to hold you and welcome you to this world. I can't wait to teach you all the wonderful things God made for us on this planet. I can't wait to watch you grow and to develop a wonderful relationship.
My goals with you:
- To teach you about Jesus and how important your walk with him is
- For you to develop amazing, unique relationships with your YaYa, PaPa, Uncle Chase, Uncle Matt, Aunt DeDe, Aunt Dana, JuJu, Nicey, Aunt Jen Romberger and so many more
- To show you the world: I want you to touch, taste, feel, experience, smell and hear all the wonders of the world.
- I want to teach you how important our family unit is. And no matter what your daddy and I love you unconditionally and will ALWAYS be there for you. How important honesty, integrity and humility are. How to always cherish your relationship with your parents and siblings.
- I want to teach you about sports and your daddy and I think you'll be a fantastic volleyball player or football player!
- To teach you about believing in yourself and there's nothing you can't do...as long as you believe in yourself.
Your mama is outspoken, friendly, exciting, loving, extremely giving, sensitive, athletic, strong, supportive and most of all...ready to be your mom.
Keep growing little one! Love you to the moon and back.
~Your mama
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