Blissful Beyer's

Two Months

2012-02-16T21:18:00.000-08:00

Brady you are 2 months old today. Oh my sweet boy you are growing up so fast.

You wear a size 1 diaper.

You still can wear a few newborn clothes but you mostly wear 0-3 months.

You weigh 11.5 pounds.

You nurse about every 3 hours. We are working on stretching you to 4 hours.

You are still sleeping in the bassinet in our room, but have started taking naps in your crib.

You have started smiling more & more and recognizing people more.
You coo & giggle at us.

You are such a morning baby, that is when you are the happiest!
Your changing table/pad is your favorite place to be.

You love bath time in your Tuckie Duckie.

I am convinced you are made of sugar because you are so dang sweet!

You love your daddy & he absolutely loves & adores you!

You have recently discovered your hands. You love sucking on your fists and putting your hands in your mouth.

You blow/make bubbles now with your mouth.

You fight your sleep like no one's business.

You still love to be swaddled - for nighttime & for naps.

You have made 2 road trips to Mimi & Papa's.

You get really fussy when you haven't had good sleep.

You can hold your head up and people always comment on how strong you are.

You love being in the Mobywrap. I can always put you in it to calm you down.

You still wake up 2 times during the night to nurse.
You sleep with your "sleep sheep" during the night and music on during naps.

You make so many different faces. Serious ones, perplexed ones, and funny ones.

Yesterday (2/15) you rolled over from your tummy to your back! Mommy put you in your crib on your tummy and came back in to find you on your back!

You make this momma earn her keep. But I love every second/minute of it and wouldn't trade it for the world. You bring so much joy to us everyday. We love you so much! And of course think you are the cutest, smartest baby around.

I absolutely love being your momma! You melt my heart!!

Sons are a heritage from the LORD, children a reward from him. -Psalm 127:3

My Sweet Valentine

2012-02-15T20:11:00.000-08:00

Talk about mELt my hEaRt...

Valentine's Day 2012

2012-02-15T10:33:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Valentines day. It was super simple but was one of the sweetest ever!

Because I'm pretty sure there is nothing sweeter than a baby.

For Valentine's, AB went to the grocery store for me. I know what you are thinking...really?? But oh this is a big deal because it saved me a trip and I didn't have to get out with baby B. Which means I stayed in my pj's all day...now that makes a girl happy! :)

For Valentine's, AB also cooked dinner. I know, he is a total keeper! He grilled shrimp, steaks, and then assisted me in making the Pioneer Woman's Hot Crush Potatoes. I made us salads and tea. We also ate our china for the very 1st time. AB joked about how we were waiting to use our china for when the queen came to visit...I told him I was the queen! Ha! :)

AB also got me chocolate covered strawberries and a card from him & Brady.

Our little Valentine joined us for dinner.

It was the best Valentine's...simple & sweet!

With lots of love & kisses from my two sweet boys!

Mimi & Papa's & a BIRTHdAY!

2012-02-13T21:23:00.000-08:00

Last Friday, we decided to pack up and head to my parents aka Mimi & Papa's for the weekend. It was a special treat to go spend the weekend there and I'm so thankful for my hubby who is willing to take an impromptu trip on his birthday weekend. I'm such a lucky girl!

We had a fairly low-key weekend for being out of town. We got to Houston around 4pm. Mom cooked salmon patties, which AB got to try for the first time and I made coconut shrimp & chicken. Hmm, it was so good!

Saturday, we took a trip across town to look at a small bombay dresser I found on Craigslist. We ended up getting it and I plan on using it as a bedside table in our bedroom. I'll have to take photos of it once I move it into our room...as of right now it's still in the garage. Eventually I'll probably refinish it - when I find some energy somewhere, ha!

Papa and Brady...love!

After an eventful time in a church parking lot while I nursed Brady and fighting the Houston traffic back to my parents...mom and I headed to Home Goods & TJ-Maxx. I love Home Goods! Such great house stuff for great prices. Too bad we don't have one here, or a TJ-Maxx - ugh! We ended up getting a really neat ottoman for the living room and a pretty hamper (laundry basket) for our bedroom. I am so tired of looking at the white laundry basket that is always in our bathroom, which happens to be teeny, tiny! So need less to say...we had a car FULL on the way home! We actually had to leave the hamper at my parents because it wouldn't fit in the suburban. Ha! I also got some new tops which are bright colors and will be great for this spring.

My new french country ottoman...love it!

On the way home...the back

the front seat

that's the suitcase right beside me...it was cramped, ha!

Saturday night, we went out to dinner for AB's birthday! We originally had plans to eat at an hibachi steakhouse but it was an hour and 45 minute wait. Hmm, with a 8 week old...not happening! That is what stinks about having a birthday so close to Valentine's day. Luckily there was a Pappasito's Cantina across the street that we were able to get a table at within minutes. AB's friend Al, surprised him & met us for dinner. He also got meet Brady for the first time :)

Mimi and Papa before dinner

Al, AB, and B at dinner

again...

my amazing parents

AB's first birthday as a family of 3 and as a daddy! :)

Brady was crying so we didn't try for another picture. This is real life people ;)

We ate wayyy too much but had a wonderful time! And thankfully Brady was a good little boy for his daddy's birthday dinner!

Sunday morning we headed back home. I get so sad every time I leave my parents. I just hate that we live so far away. But that's a whole other post for another time...

But Sunday was a special day because it was AB's actual birthday!

Poor Brady on the way home...he was so tired & that's the sleep sheep we use for him during naps/sleep and I was hoping if I turned it on & put it right there he'd go/stay asleep. Worked for a little bit but wasn't all that successful. & the paci semi-worked as well...he did okay for his 2nd road trip. There was a little bit more crying this time but it was more because we left at strange times & didn't time it according to his feedings.

When we got home, AB wanted to smoke ribs on his new grill he got for his birthday. His parents had steaks cut at our little local grocery store for his birthday dinner. Steak is his favorite, next to macaroni & cheese. We ended up having steak, ribs, fresh green beans, left-over cheesy hash-brown casserole, & salad for his birthday dinner. I also made him THIS dessert. I totally read the ingredients wrong & only had 1 thing of Cool Whip so ours didn't have cool whip on top but regardless it is HEAVEN in a pan! So good!!!! Probably one of my newest, most favorite desserts. Thanks once again Pinterest for another great recipe!

Happy Birthday to an amazing husband who loves me more than anything in this world & always remembers to show or tell me. Happy Birthday also to an awesome daddy! Brady has known AB from day one and I love nothing more than to see them to interact with each other. Brady has one of the BEST daddy's ever & I thank God everyday for him. We love you dearly & hope you had a wonderful birthday!

Brady & daddy on his birthday! :)

Pinterest Cooking

2012-02-09T15:56:00.000-08:00

Pinterest is my new best friend when it comes to preparing and planning meals for the week. It's now my go-to place when I start planning our weekly meals. Now that I am home with the baby, I actually have time to cook and I am loving it.

I thought I'd share with you all the recipes I have made thus far:

(click on the pictures to take you to the pin/recipe)

Baked Crispy Cheddar Chicken

Source: jamiecooksitup.blogspot.com via Nancy on Pinterest

AB and I loved this recipe, definitely one I'll be throwing into my week-night dinner rotation. I highly recommend it.

Brown Sugar & Balsamic Glazed Pork-loin

Source: candcmarriagefactory.com via Nancy on Pinterest

AB really liked this. I liked it too but mine did not look this caramelized. Next time I will probably caramelize it in a skillet and then cook it in the oven. I think the pork-loin I bought was injected with a lot of water because the crock-pot had lots of water in it - eww, not a fan of injected food. But I will definitely make it again just tweak it a bit.

Chicken Fried Rice - minus the chicken

Source: runninginstilettos-hbc.blogspot.com via Nancy on Pinterest

Our rice ended up being a little mushy but AB made it while I tended to Brady so I'm not sure what happened. I will give it another shot and see if I can make it less mushy? We also didn't have chicken in it because I was serving it along side this next recipe, which we LOVED!

Coconut Chicken with Apricot Sauce

Source: penniesonaplatter.com via Nancy on Pinterest

Loved this recipe! Easy and so delicious! If you are a fan of coconut that is, which I love all things coconut! I doubled the sauce recipe because we are some sauce-lovin' fools in this house...I am thinking this would be to die for if you used shrimp! Yum! This recipe is a winner-winner, chicken dinner! Ha!

Sweet Baby Ray's Crockpot Chicken

Source: forkinit.blogspot.com via Nancy on Pinterest

This was good but it also did NOT look like the picture. It was also rather runny too, I'm guessing too much water injected into the chicken? Not sure...either way it was still good, I just had to add bbq sauce on it when I served it because the sauce it made was more like soup. Ha!

Chicken Crescent Roll Casserole

Source: plainchicken.blogspot.com via Nancy on Pinterest

I really liked this recipe, just had to cook mine longer since I used "big & fluffy" crescents. This is another one I will make again.

Crockpot Beef Stroganoff

Source: thecrockstar.blogspot.com via Nancy on Pinterest

I actually wrote about this one here. I've actually been craving this so it must be a keeper.

Autumn Chopped Salad

Source: espressoandcream.com via Nancy on Pinterest

I made that salad for a work party...it was a big hit. I thought it was really good myself.

Crispy Southwest Chicken Wraps

Source: melskitchencafe.com via Nancy on Pinterest

These were really good. I added Rotel which made them have a bit of a kick. But these would be even better with...

Chuy's Jalapeno Ranch Dip

Source: heritageschoolhouse.blogspot.com via Nancy on Pinterest

So.Good. Makes.a.ton.

Loaded Potato Soup

Source: livealittlewilder.com via Nancy on Pinterest

Also makes.a.ton. I recommend you make it for a crowd or freeze what you don't eat.

And for dinner tonight, I am making...

Ranch Chicken

Source: google.com via Nancy on Pinterest

with Cracker Barrel Hashbrown Casserole

Source: restaurant.recipes-network.net via Nancy on Pinterest

And that's why I love Pinterest. So many great ideas/recipes. If you are on Pinterest, you can "follow" me here.

Happy Pinning!

Fork in the road

2012-02-08T13:31:00.000-08:00

I am probably one of the most indecisive persons around. Decision-making is not my strong suit. Placing an order at a restaurant can be an ordeal, actually picking where I want to eat is even more of an ordeal - just ask my husband. And when I am in rush it is even worse.

Ahem. Makes me just sweaty thinking about it.

So when big, life-changing decisions are staring straight in front of me...you can only imagine how I deal with it. Or don't deal with it, would be the more appropriate way to describe it.

Source: tumblr.com via Nicole on Pinterest

Without going into too much detail, I am currently at a fork in the road in my life. Which means a decision has to be made. Go left, go right?

The thing about my fork in the road is that either way I chose, there is no "wrong" way. Both ways have their advantages and disadvantages, making this decision even more difficult.

Another reason that makes this decision difficult is my number one nemesis: FEAR.

Fear of the unknown.

Fear of missing out on opportunities that cannot be replaced.

Fear of making the "wrong" decision, even though there isn't a wrong decision.

Fear of not getting a do-over.

Fear that life will pass me by and I won't be able to go back.

Fear of making a selfish decision.

It seems that time and time again, fear is what holds me back. Fear is what paralyzes me. Even when I know fear is not of my Heavenly Father and if I claim to be his child then I am not of fear. So yet why does it rear its ugly head?

Is it because I let it or is because it is God's way of reminding me...He is in control!

Source: Uploaded by user via Nancy on Pinterest

You see it's like this...THIS fork in my life isn't just a decision to be made but yet another chance to fully give myself to His will and purpose for my little ol' life.

To stop and listen. To stop and seek Him first above all else. To stop and bask in the glory of Him.

Knowing He has a perfect plan and direction for me...it's just up to me to stop and just BE.

Be. still.

And it is these moments in my life, I feel His presence and grace more than ever. And it couldn't be sweeter.

Just like my momma wants the best for me. And just like I want the best for Brady. I know Jesus only wants the best for me.

And I couldn't be more thankful for this fork in the road.

Guess that's the reason why He placed this on my heart the morning I was being induced, the day that changed my heart and life, the day I became a mommy.

She is clothed with strength and dignity, and she laughs without fear of the future.

Proverbs 31:25

Super Sunday

2012-02-06T19:48:00.000-08:00

So yesterday was Super Bowl Sunday. We ended up not going to church due to being extremely tired from the night before. I didn't think our little man was up all that much, just we were both extremely tired for some reason. Brady and I didn't wake up until noon, wow!

Therefore, most of my day was gone. I got up, ate lunch real quick then made a Wal-Mart run. I needed to return some diapers and exchange them for a different size. Well, come to find out my drivers license expired, hmm back in November. Oops! So they wouldn't let me exchange the diapers without a valid driver license. Go figure! Looks like that's what I'll be taking care of this week.

Daddy and Brady also took a Sunday afternoon nap. Nothing sweeter!

Once I got home from my unsuccessful Wal-Mart trip, it was time to make some cheese dip and guacamole for the game. Honestly, I didn't really watch much of the game or commercials...I was rather bored to tell you the truth so instead I pinned on Pinterest. Way more fun, don't ya think?!

For dinner, we (meaning AB) grilled hamburgers on his new grill (he got an early birthday present) and we had chips & dip to go along with it. We aren't very good NFL fans, I guess since we really did nothing exciting for the game - oh well, low-key is always a good thing to me. Especially with a 7 week old.

AB's bacon, gauc, cheeseburger
While I made the guacamole, Brady hang out in his swing! :)

Swoon...baby feet!
Love that little face more than words can express!We may have not cared much about the game but we sure did have a SUPER Sunday! Hope yours was just as super! :)

Beauty

2012-02-01T22:12:00.000-08:00

Source: applesandonions.tumblr.com via Nancy on Pinterest

Monday Funday!

2012-01-31T16:27:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I decided to get out and run some errands. It was just one of those days where I was determined to get out of the house & go.

I'm normally a homebody. And still very much get anxiety when I leave the house with Brady. Never know what kind of mood he'll be in and when he might want to nurse...in public, ha!

I timed it to where Brady would be sleeping *fingers crossed* and hopefully wouldn't want to eat again for another 3 hours. So I was hoping I'd have at least 3 hours to go into town, do all the things I wanted to do and be home in time to feed him.

I first stopped at Chick-fil-a for some lunch, yum! Then I needed to get make-up so I headed to the mall. I found a spot very close to the entrance I needed...thank you Lord. Minor detail: it was raining.

I ran into Carter's real quick but Brady isn't a fan of not moving so it was a quick in and out. I did manage to get him some that was on sale...while he screamed the entire time I was paying. We then went to get my make-up and it was on to our next stop...Sam's Club.

Brady was so good there. Slept the entire time. Then it was time to head home. He started fussing as we pulled onto our street. I say our day out and about was a success!

Happy momma!!

I bought a Moby wrap a few weeks ago and attempted to try it on but I'll admit it's a bit scary, bit challenging, and hmm I think takes someone smarter than me to figure out how to make it work. I decided it would be easier for me to do things around the house and out & about if I could figure how to "wear my baby" so last night I thought I'd try it out again.

Evenings are Brady's least favorite part of the day...hence there is a lot of crying and when he has a spell of reflux - this Moby wrap says it helps. I often can't get much done in the evenings due to always holding him so if I could get the Moby wrap to work, we'd be in business! :)

At first he was not a fan...

But then he warmed up to it and actually fell asleep while in it. I still don't think I got it tight enough but definitely better than the last time I attempted it.

So I call it a success...all the way around.

(sorry the pics aren't the best, taken with my phone & no flash b/c my battery was low)

What a fun way to spend a Monday!

Christmas Eve & Day 2011

2012-01-29T18:43:00.001-08:00

Like I said in my previous Christmas post...Christmas was pretty low this key since Brady was only 9 days old.

Christmas eve we decided to forego church since he was so little and since I was only able to stand about 5 minutes or less at a time due to my incision.

Christmas is my most favorite holiday and Christmas eve service is one of my most favorite parts of Christmas, but we just didn't want to risk Brady catching something being out and about with that many people during the peak of cold & flu season.

Oh my goodness...he was so tiny!

And sweet!

My mom was already here so my dad drove in that Saturday morning, the 24th. We were watching Pioneer Woman that morning on TV and they were having a ranch party where they served this amazing beef tenderloin cooked in butter. Lots of butter! I told AB that looks so good, maybe we should do one of those for Christmas. So we did & it was delicious! So good I think we'll make that a Christmas tradition meal.

So for Christmas eve, we had beef tenderloin, steamed green beans & broccoli, some delicious cheesy-ranch potatoes, and rolls. AB's parents and his sister came over for dinner as well.

Thanks to my mom and AB, we had an amazing Christmas eve dinner!

After dinner and cleaning up, we headed out to look at Christmas lights. Another one of my favorite things to do. I couldn't wait to take Brady to look at lights...okay so he slept through all of it but either way I loved it. My parents, my husband, my new baby boy, and myself enjoying a night of looking at Christmas lights - such precious memories. When we got home it was ready to go ready for Santa!

Since Brady was only 9 days old, we didn't really do Santa but we did have a few gifts for him for when he got up Christmas morning. Nothing fancy, just a few things...like his first football, some books & dvds, and a few other small toys.

I do put cookies & milk out but really just for the fun of it.

Cookies & milk for Santa and Brady's stocking filled with The Winnie Pooh dvd, books, a MudPie rattle, and a bib.

Brady's Santa gifts under the tree...

and now for Christmas morning!!!!!

The greatest gift ever! A sweet 7 pound baby boy!!!!

(in his cute Kissy Kissy Christmas outfit from Mimi)

Ha, this picture cracks me up!

Once we had Christmas with Brady and my parents, we went to my in-laws to open gifts. I got a Keuring! Yay!

Brady's cousins, Joe & Ella opening Christmas presents...silly putty!

We went back to my in-laws to have Christmas lunch.

My amazing mother and I

Our sweet family on Christmas. Aww, we are so blessed!

Mom got Brady these adorable reindeer slippers to go with his Christmas outfit. So stinkin' cute!

This Christmas may have been a low-key one but it was absolutely the best one yet!

Having a newborn at Christmas is so incredibly sweet! And totally makes me only wonder what Mary went through as she brought baby Jesus into this world. A baby sent to the save the souls of man.

Christmas 2011 was so much more than I ever could have imagined. Christmas babies really are special and oh so sweet!

Thank you God for blessing us with your son. And thank you for blessing us with our son. Both have changed our lives in ways we can't even describe.

Merry Christmas my sweet Brady! Looking forward to many, many, more Christmases with you!

First Bath

2012-01-24T21:45:00.000-08:00

So this is a little late but I don't want to forget Brady's first bath.

Brady had his first bath at home on Tuesday, December 20th - the day after we came home from the hospital.

His daddy took pictures while his Mimi showed mommy how to sponge bathe him.

He seemed to really like the warm water.

And only cried at the end.

Such a sweet boy!

I know it hasn't been that long ago but "it's moments like this that makes me wish I could freeze frame time!"

Christmas in Houston {Part 1}

2012-01-20T14:06:00.000-08:00

Since Brady was born so close to Christmas and we actually weren't 100% sure when he would make his debut, our Christmas plans were kind of delayed.

We did have a small, low-key Christmas here at home on Christmas day but just my parents were here...which I still need to post about.

So this last weekend (1/13), Brady had his first road trip. To Mimi & Papa's none the less for our family Christmas. He did wonderfully on the way there.

He slept all the way there until we got to downtown Houston, which is about 3 hours from our house. He cried for a few, long minutes then fell back asleep until we exited onto my parents parents, which was about another 10-15 minutes. A crying baby for that long seems like an eternity but we still couldn't complain seeing how it was almost a 4 hour drive.

The girls (Aubrey, Shaylee, and Madyson) couldn't wait to hold Brady!

Sweet girls...sweet cousins

Saturday, we had Christmas with my siblings and all of my nieces & nephews. Mom made the traditional Christmas dinner. Turkey, ham, cornbread dressing, mashed potatoes, mac n cheese, broccoli cheese casserole, sweet potatoes, green bean casserole, & rolls. Whew! That was a mouthful, ha! Actually each of us girls brought our favorite sides and/or desserts. Worked out really well & less stressful on my mom having to make everything.

Look at this sweet face...my nephew Ace

Brady got lots of love & hugs!

Saturday evening we opened gifts. Of course the gift opening is more for all the kids.

Brady was asleep during the present opening so we didn't think he would mind if his daddy opened his presents. He got books, toys (rattles, teethers, Melissa & Doug farm puzzle), two outfits with an A&M hat, and diapers.

Madyson is into games and got two games: Headbandz & Twister. They played Headbandz Saturday night and it was so much fun to watch them. Each person gets a card with a picture on it that says..."I am _____." dog for example and then the others give that person clues to what they are. It was hilarious to listen to them giving clues and guessing. Oh to be 7 or 5 again!

Mimi and Papa got Aggie grandparents shirts from Brady! :)

And Brady got his first bath at Mimi's from Aunt Kara.

Well that was just Saturday...we had lots more fun on Sunday that I will hopefully post about tomorrow.

Don't want to forget...

2012-01-18T10:39:00.000-08:00

...this moment.

Yesterday was a trying day in our house. Brady was just not himself...essentially cried, screamed for most of the day.

I was at my witts end. He was at his.

Poor thing would cry. Poor me would cry.

Normally I can take him for a ride in the car and he goes right to sleep, well that didn't even work yesterday.

I felt like I failed him. I didn't know how to help him.

I know this will not be the only time I'll feel this way, it's just a part of parenting and a part of life.

I just kept thinking oh when will the day be over? After I gave him his bath and put him to bed...I was just sure I'd crawl in bed and fall asleep from pure mental exhaustion.

But instead I laid in bed thinking how incredibly blessed I am that God entrusted me with such a precious life. No, I won't always have the right answers or won't be able to save the day but Lord knows I love that little boy more than life itself and there is nothing that can ever take that away.

I didn't want to fall asleep because I didn't want to miss a moment! Even if moments are tough...these moments will not last forever & one day I am going to miss even the tough days.

There are women who only long to have a baby of their own. And there are mothers who long to hold their baby just one more time, after they have tragically had to say goodbye. I never want to take for granted the amazing miracle I've been given, the most important job on this earth - being a mother.

As I laid in bed thanking my Maker for making me a mother, I thought to myself...wow, this is what it feels like to be full! Full of joy, full of peace, full of grace, full of a life that only He can give. Even when I thought the day may never end...

My heart is full, actually over-flowing with what great things He hath done.

And I don't want to forget it!

"I have a Maker. He formed my heart...even before time began, my life was in His hands. He knows my name...he knows my every thought...he sees each tear that falls and hears me when I call!"

One Month

2012-01-16T21:13:00.000-08:00

Brady you are one month old today.

I can't believe it...I am not ready for you to grow up! Ha! I want you to be a baby forever!

You are such a great baby!

You normally go to sleep between 10 and 11pm and sleep until about 1am. After you nurse, you go right back to sleep. Then you wake up again between 4 and 5am.

After your morning feeding, you stay up until about 9 or 10 - depending on if you decide to sleep in with mommy, then we don't get up until 9 or 10.

You love the morning time & are so happy then.

You love to stretch out in your crib and listen to the mobile Mimi got you.

You just coo and talk in the mornings. I love to listen & watch you!

You are still wearing newborn diapers but will probably go up to ones this week. You still wear newborn clothes with some 0-3 months.

You weigh 9 and half pounds.

You are very strong. You can already lift your head up and push hard with your little legs.

When you are awake, you love to look around. People always say how alert you look!

You are incredibly smart! Of course your Daddy already thinks you're a genius ;)

Today you would even mimic me whenever I'd move my lips - you'd move yours.

You do great in the car...as long as we are moving and the radio is up loud!

You make the funniest facial expressions and have even started smiling! Melt my heart!!

You are just absolutely precious and so sweet!

We couldn't imagine life without you! We love you so very much!!

Praise God from whom all blessings flow!!!

Wal-Mart, Cookies, Friends & Recipes

2012-01-10T18:27:00.000-08:00

Sorry this post is kind of all over the place...

Today I decided to venture out & take a trip to Wal-Mart. Exciting stuff I know. My first trip to Wal-Mart since I've had the little man...oh how my life has changed.

I knew a baby would mean changes, it's just funny that a short little trip to Wal-Mart is no longer a simple task - but I wouldn't have it any other way!

Where's Brady?!

So now...where do I put my groceries? AB actually likes this because there is limited space in the basket so I can't just fill it up with non-sense. Also with a baby, I can't just "stroll" around...I have to get in & get out!

I only had a few things on my list but of course like usual, I decided since I was out I better pick up a few more things I knew we were low on. Such as Dingo treats for the dogs!

Brady did really well at Wal-Mart...until it was time to check-out. He all of sudden started wailing while I was waiting in line. Of course, it seemed like an eternity before it was my turn then the machine wasn't taking my debit card so we had to re-run it a 2nd time, all while I am sweating like crazy, trying to shove the pacifier in his mouth - which he clearly does NOT want...luckily as soon as I started pushing the basket again, he was fine! Love that little boy!!

But I did see a commercial today for these amazing looking cookies & it just so happened that I remembered about them while at Wal-Mart. Say hello to my newest, sweet friend...

Oh my goodness...have you tried these?! AB didn't seem to think they were as delicious as I thought they were but even better - cookies that I don't have to share. Only downside is there aren't near enough in the bag...totally could probably eat all of them in one sitting...if I wanted too but I do have some self-control thankfully.

Once I got home 2 of my sweet friends came over to visit me, okay let's be honest...they came over to meet/hold Brady. I was so excited for them to meet him and to have some adult conversation, ha! I miss chatting with these ladies everyday at school.

Auntie Eva

Auntie Pam

Such sweet friends! Thanks for coming to visit us!! :)

The main reason I went to Wal-Mart was because I've been wanting to try some new recipes I pinned off Pinterest.

I made this dip tonight - so good!

Source: heritageschoolhouse.blogspot.com via Nancy on Pinterest

And I bought the stuff to make this cake too...maybe tomorrow.

Source: thecountrycook.net via Nancy on Pinterest

Well that's how we spent our Tuesday...hope your was just as fun! :)

Weekend Fun

2012-01-09T13:53:00.000-08:00

We love the weekends because that means Daddy is home!

Saturday we decided to venture out as a family. We really need to organize the garage and and get it put back together so I can park my car in there so we headed to Home Depot to get shelving units. Then we made a family trip to HEB to get groceries for the week.

Brady during his first trip to Home Depot. He was a precious angel the entire time or actually he could have cared less that we were there, ha!

Sleeping is what he does best when we are out & about.

Before Home Depot, he spent a little time stretching out on his new rug. Which Coco happens to think is fabulous! She plops down on it every time she goes into his room. She is Brady's best friend, follows him (me) wherever we go. It's so cute!

Brady also was able to wear one of the onesies I made for him, its a tad bit too big but it was still super cute!

Sunday we went Bayside to a little sandwich shop to have lunch with our sweet friends who were in a nearby town for the weekend. Brady got to meet Britt, Brooke, & Rylie! It was so great to see them & spend a little bit of time with them. I hate that we don't live closer to them!

Sweet Rylie, Britt & Brady

Ohhh big yawn!

Brooklyn...I think she needs a baby boy ;)

Love them!

After all that fun...we decided to stop by and visit our other friends, Jones & Stephanie. But this absent-minded momma forgot to take a picture while we were there. I was too busy chatting with Stephanie while the boys watched tv - typical!

We had such a great weekend visiting with friends & Brady did so good.

Sweet Mornings

2012-01-06T14:35:00.000-08:00

Brady's first home videos.

He is such a sweet, happy boy in the mornings. I try to put him in his crib and let him stretch out in the mornings while he listens to the mobile that Mimi got him. Here is a peek into our mornings after we cuddle in bed for awhile...excuse my high pitched voice ;)

Oh I just love when he makes his little coo sound...so sweet!

Smocked & Oxfords

2012-01-05T20:50:00.000-08:00

Beware...overload of cuteness & pictures

Tonight we went to dinner for my MIL's birthday and it was the perfect opportunity to dress up!

So I dressed Brady in a smocked outfit and his adorable oxford shoes that Mimi got him. I even managed to take a shower, get myself dressed, and Brady feed, bathed, & dressed all by myself - and all on time! Pretty proud of myself since AB is normally around to help me get him/us ready. He went back to work this week & we sure do miss him during the day!

Brady did so good during dinner. He slept for the first hour of dinner then it was time for him to eat. Afterwards, we "passed the package" while we ate dessert.

Dandy holding B.

Jan's turn...

Daddy's turn...

& then mommas turn :)

Sleeping through dinner

Happy Birthday Nanna!

Yes, I am completely biased but I think he is the most adorable baby boy in the south! :)

Pure Love

Gig Em Aggies!

2011-12-31T12:42:00.001-08:00

Brady's first Aggie game! We watched it from the comfort on the couch but we made sure we yelled "gig em aggies!" or "fight em aggies!"

Whoop for a fightin' Texas Aggie bowl game win!

Dr appointments & lunch

2011-12-28T21:47:00.002-08:00

Last Friday (12/23) Brady had his first doctor appointment. It was a relatively painless appointment other than the fact that we forgot the diaper bag (yeah, parents of the year!) and that when we got there they told us our appointment was the day before...never a dull moment! Our pediatrician sees babies at 2 locations and there was a mix-up with our appointment but thankfully they were kind of enough to go ahead & see us.

His check-up went great...he gained weight (weighed in at 7lbs 5 oz) and everything else checked out great.

Here is our sweet boy ("our bear cub" as Daddy likes to say) on the way to the Dr.

Daddy holding him at his first appointment

Today we had another follow-up for the newborn screening or PKU. Momma did NOT like the PKU part, I had to try my hardest to hold back tears. Thankfully Daddy was there to help :)

Brady is a growing boy...he is now up to 7lbs 14oz & everything else looked great according to Dr.

We are so thankful for a healthy baby boy!

After our appointment, we decided to have our first lunch out. Mom meet us at Hu-Dat Noodle House. Brady did so good - he slept the entire time even with ALL the noise!

What a sweet, sweet baby boy we have! :)

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T10:37:00.000-08:00

For to us a child is born, to us a son is given, and the government will be on his shoulders. And he will be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

Isaiah 9:6

What we've been up too...

2011-12-22T20:02:00.000-08:00

I have been doing lots of nursing and napping. We are sleeping much better now that mommy's milk has come in.

sleeping & snuggling with Daddy

and with Coco. Coco loves her new baby brother!

Yesterday (12/21) I tried out the swing for the first time & loved it.

We also had our first family outing today. We went to a gift shop in Sinton to get a few last minute Christmas gifts then we stopped at Dairy Queen to get a cold drink.

Here I am being a good boy waiting in the car while Mimi & mommy shop.

Tomorrow, we go for his first pediatrician check-up so I'll be back with a blog all about that.

Today, I (mommy) actually got dressed, put on make-up, did my hair, & put on normal clothes. I've been in pj's since I got home. I felt like a whole new person. I am feeling better each & every day and getting around gets easier, as well. I am trying to enjoy & soak up each & every moment because I know before I look up, he will be 6 months old & I am NOT ready for that, ha!

Source: proclamationpictures.blogspot.com via Nancy on Pinterest

Brady is here!!!!

2011-12-21T13:57:00.000-08:00

Friday morning, December 16th at 5:00am I checked into the hospital to be induced.

At 11:50pm that night, Brady Allen finally arrived via c-section. It was a very tiring and trying day. I am just so thankful that God was definitely watching over Brady and myself that day.

We finally were able to come home Monday afternoon. We are absolutely in love and couldn't be more blessed.

I will write his birth story at a later date for now I'm going to go snuggle with my precious baby boy.

Brady Allen Beyer

7 pounds, 4 oz

20 and 1/2 inches long

Born December 16, 2011 @ 11:50pm

"For you created my inmost being; you knit me together in my mother's womb. I praise you because I am fearfully and wonderfully made; your works are wonderful, I know that full well." Psalm 139: 13-14

To my baby boy...

2011-12-14T20:11:00.000-08:00

So I am only a few days away from meeting my baby boy, my first born, my son!

Dear Brady Allen,

Soon you will make your way into this world. We have been anxiously awaiting your arrival and couldn't be more excited to see your sweet face. I often wonder what you or who you will look like. If you will look like your handsome daddy or if you will favor me, your sweet mommy! They say you have hair - which is funny because neither your daddy or I had hair when we were born. I wonder what color eyes you will have. I so hope you have your daddy's blue eyes. There are so many things I wonder about you...about what kind of baby you will be? What kind of kid you will be? What kind of things you will like when you are older? If you like macaroni and cheese like your daddy or if you like pancakes like me? And just who you will be in general? Of course, an Aggie - right?!

I pray everyday that you will have a heart for Jesus and that you will know how very loved you are. There are so many people who are just waiting to meet you, hold you, and love on you. Also, Jesus had a plan for you even before you make your debut into this world. I know he has big plans for you!

I can admit that I will miss being your personal carrier. I'm sure I'll miss feeling you move around inside my tummy. I will miss knowing I'm your one & only at this point. We have had an amazing bond from the beginning, one that no one else could have with you. You have been all mine for the last 9 months so I'm thinking I'll be just a wee bit protective of you once you arrive :) and probably for the rest of your life. That's what moms are for!

Your daddy and I cannot wait to meet you, kiss you, and love on you. You aren't even here yet but we already love you so very much!

If there's one thing I do know...it is that you will be blessed!

I love you forever & always!

Love,

Mommy

Oh yes, you shaped me first inside, then out;
you formed me in my mother's womb.
I thank you, High God—you're breathtaking!
Body and soul, I am marvelously made!
I worship in adoration—what a creation!
You know me inside and out,
you know every bone in my body;
You know exactly how I was made, bit by bit,
how I was sculpted from nothing into something.
Like an open book, you watched me grow from conception to birth;
all the stages of my life were spread out before you,
The days of my life all prepared
before I'd even lived one day.

Psalm 139:13-16, The Message

38 Weeks

2011-12-11T20:10:00.000-08:00

look at that belly - 0h my gosh!

How Far Along: 38 weeks

Size of baby: size of a mini watermelon - wow!

Total Weight Gain/Loss: 20 lbs

Gender: It's a BOY!!! Brady Allen

Maternity Clothes: dresses, tunics with leggings - my favorite - dress pants are now uncomfortable & really don't when I sit. Allen's workout shorts are my new best friends :)

Movement: yes but not as often as he was moving, I think he is running out of room!

Sleep: not sleeping all that well...wake up several times & sometimes stay up for a while

What I miss: being able to sit, lay comfortable & just being able to move around easily

Cravings: ice water - crushed ice

Symptoms: feet/ankles/legs swelling, fingers swelling (I can no longer wear my Aggie ring :( so sad!), have this horrible rash that itches like crazy, ahh!!

Best Moment this week: Doctor telling us that we will be having a baby next week! Eeekkk!!! So surreal...

Oh another wonderful story, I don't want to forget. Most morning I try to stop at the Shell station (Texas Star) for some hot chocolate. I've carved hot chocolate while I've been pregnant. There are always 2 ladies in there working the register. They are always so kind & cheerful. The lady who was ringing me up asked of course the typical oh when are you due? You look like you are about to have a baby any day now...I said yes ma'am, hopefully sooner than later but I am due December 23rd. She says "oh a Christmas miracle, how awesome is that?" I said yeah I'm pretty blessed. She said, "oh what a wonderful blessing. It is the best thing in the word!" She went on to tell me about her twins and how she has a boy & he is so much fun! She said well God bless you & your b baby & I hope everything goes well for you. I kindly thanked her and walked out to my car.

When I got into my car, tears filled my eyes! See that morning I just did not want to get out of bed...it was just one of those mornings. It was at that moment that I thought, it is amazing where God might show up! At the local gas station...while I'm buying hot chocolate...while I'm extremely late to work & stressed over being late...again! I felt so loved by that conversation by a lady I don't even know. I also thought once again, how awesome is it that yet another person shared in the joys of me having a baby. To me it was just another reminder that God never forgets about us...He shows up when we least expect Him to and in the most unusual places.

I wanted to go back & hug that lady - totally made my day!

Don't feed the reindeer!

2011-12-08T05:43:00.001-08:00

My door at school.

Thanks again Pinterest!

Love Came Down

2011-12-05T19:14:00.000-08:00

This is too good not to share...perfect for this time of year with the hustle & bustle of Christmas.

Feeling the weight of the lists...

I think I'll take it away & read it often this Christmas season. Especially since I'm feeling the weight of Christmas, preparing for a baby, and the weight of all my to-do list. I don't want to miss a moment due to waiting to rush what is to come.

"whenever Christmas begins to burden, it’s a sign that I’ve taken on something of the world and not of Christ. Any weight in Christmas has to be of this world. Christ came into this world as grace to lift all the weighty burdens.

Christ the Babe comes to us in Christmas as Christ the Savior comes to us on the Cross —seeking only our embrace."

For unto us a child is born, unto us a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder: and his name shall be called Wonderful, Counsellor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace.

-Isaiah 9:6

Is it really December already?!?!

2011-12-04T18:52:00.000-08:00

So December is here...what happened to November?

Even though I've been waiting for December for some time...I can't believe it's here!

I feel like I never have time to blog but yet I feel like I have so much to blog about...so this post is going to be an all over, catch-up, kind of post.

On November 17th, my in-laws took us out to eat for my birthday on top of the Omni Hotel at The Republic of Texas. It was lovely evening, where we enjoyed delicious steak! The next night, we went to The Republic of Texas again to eat, ha! Our sweet family friend Jan called us Friday evening and said she had made reservations for us and to be ready at 6. It was a wonderful surprise, even though we had gone the night before. I ended up ordering the shrimp this time & they were the BEST shrimp I've ever eaten! It was great company and the view of the bay was beautiful!

Us at dinner...

Saturday night we ended up going out to eat with our good friends Jones & Stephanie. They came and picked us up & treated us to sushi & a "bun" bowl, which is like an Asian salad. We also made a stop by Hobby Lobby :)

Sunday, the 20th was my actual birthday and it was also our first Sunday in our new church. It was a packed service, which was great to see. We normally eat Dairy Queen every Sunday after church, it's just what you do in a small town but Ms. Jan called and suggested we go to The Railroad Seafood Station instead since it was my birthday. They have the most delicious fried shrimp and seafood sauce, so once again I was treated to another, wonderful birthday meal.

Allen thinks I am rather spoiled but I told him...he also got to partake in all the birthday meals so I don't see what the problem is.

I also got several charms for my Pandora bracelet. AB was not supposed to get me anything since the camera was my gift but I see he didn't listen. Here are the ones he got me...

2 of these pink ones

But I have to agree I felt very loved over my birthday!

I only had to work the Monday & Tuesday of Thanksgiving week, which was wonderful.

My parents came over Thanksgiving break and we spent most of our time working around the house. AB built me a beautiful bed for our bedroom. He also ripped out the carpet in our bedroom and laid new laminate flooring down. And him and my mom painted our bedroom a beautiful pewter color, thanks to Pinterest.

We also hosted our very first Thanksgiving. My mom cooked a turkey breast (since it was just the 4 of us) and we had sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, my mom's delicious cornbread dressing, cranberry sauce, rolls, and of course buttermilk pie & a pecan pie.

My mom also organized Brady's room and closet and washed a good amount of his clothes and blankets.

I also had a school baby shower the day before we went on Thanksgiving break...I will post about that later this week.

And I managed to finish sewing the curtains for our living room, finally! Only been hmm a few months I've been working on them. At least they are now complete & that's one more thing checked off my list.

In other news...baby news of course! We went to birthing class and we've gone to infant CPR class. We had another ultrasound to measure the baby & well he has some chubby little cheeks! He is also measuring about 5-7 days ahead. We have another ultrasound and appointment this Thursday & my Dr is finally going to check me. Pray we have made some progress...I am ready to have this baby! We also have a hospital tour and breastfeeding class, woohoo! :)

AB also installed the car-seat this past week so we are ready!

His room is pretty much complete, just a few finishing touches (like a rug, curtains, & to hang a few things on the wall). That is what is my to do list this week...so maybe we could wait a week before his arrival ;)

So I think that about catches me up...except I'm sure I forgot some things since I'm not really on top of things these days.

I will say that decorating for Christmas 9 months pregnant is no fun...I don't suggest it, ha! But thankfully I have an amazing husband who is willing & ready to help me anytime I call :)

37 Weeks

2011-12-04T18:30:00.000-08:00

How Far Along: 37 weeks {considered full-term, yet you still have 3 weeks to go :-/}

Size of baby: size of a watermelon - wow!

Total Weight Gain/Loss: 20 lbs

Gender: It's a BOY!!! Brady Allen

Maternity Clothes: dresses, tunics with leggings - my favorite - dress pants are uncomfortable when I sit & Allen's workout shorts are my new best friends :)

Movement: yes all the time! you can see him rolling around under my shirts, he gets the hiccups often too

Sleep: is an ordeal...some nights are better than others, night time is my least favorite time, ha

What I miss: being able to sit, lay comfortable & just being able to move around easily - not having to potty all the time

Cravings: ice water - ice chips & sweets

Symptoms: feet/ankles/legs swelling, fingers swelling (I can no longer wear my Aggie ring :( so sad!), headaches when I wake up & just SO uncomfortable!

Best Moment this week: December is FINALLY here!!! The month we get to meet our sweet baby boy & celebrate the birth of our Savior! Love this time of year!

36 Weeks

2011-12-04T18:23:00.000-08:00

So this is really late & I am so sad that I don't even have a picture for week 36. I guess between all the Thanksgiving festivities I just completely forgot. And sadly I didn't even get 1 picture of me over the Thanksgiving holiday or over my birthday...

How Far Along: 36 weeks

Size of baby: size of a honeydew melon, just over 5 lbs

Total Weight Gain/Loss: I don't know didn't weigh...but according to the Dr's office I lost a pound, which AB said was impossible with all the birthday eating I did.

Gender: It's a BOY!!! Brady Allen

Maternity Clothes: dresses, tunics with leggings - my favorite - dress pants are uncomfortable when I sit

Movement: yes all the time

Sleep: is an ordeal...I get up several times a night, go from the bed to the recliner to the couch, back to the bed...etc...etc...etc...

What I miss: being able to sit, lay comfortable & just being able to move around easily

Cravings: ice water - ice chips

Symptoms: feet are starting to swell, headaches in the morning, difficult breathing when sitting down

Best Moment this week: my parents coming for our first Thanksgiving in our first home & helping getting everything ready for baby!

Bed in the making...

2011-11-27T06:55:00.000-08:00

So awhile back I pinned this...

Source: ana-white.com via Nancy on Pinterest

Then I showed it to AB and asked him, "do you think you could make this?!"

We bought a king size mattress before we moved into our house. I told AB before the baby comes I want to get our room put together & in order. We have done nothing to the room since we moved in. But buying new bedroom furniture was just not in the cards for us. We have made a vow to get out of debt & so buying new furniture is not in the plan. But thanks to Pinterest & my amazing husband...I now have a new, made just for me farmhouse bed!

the headboard

and the foot board, slightly modified to be has high as our mattress

the base of the bed

We decided to paint it oatmeal color. A creamy, white.

My mom then lightly stained the inside the panels.

And this is now what I have in my bedroom!

Isn't it beautiful?!?!

Sorry these aren't the best photos, I took them with my phone. I will take better photos of the room & bed once I get the room put back together. AB, my mom, and dad also painted our room and put down the new flooring over Thanksgiving. They have been busy bees!!

Thank You, Aggieland!

2011-11-25T10:54:00.000-08:00

I hope you are all had a wonderful Thanksgiving yesterday!

My parents came in Wednesday evening, so we are enjoying our time with them. They are helping us with lots of last minute things we need to do before baby comes (such as washing baby clothes, painting our bedroom, sewing curtains, & the list goes on...).

We did host our very first Thanksgiving yesterday in our very first home. It was lovely! But I forgot to take pictures...ahhh.

We also watched the Aggies attempt to beat the hell outta t.u. Yes, we were unsuccessful - partly due to the horrible calls made by the refs. Let's just so I am so THANKFUL to be leaving the Big 12 conference & moving onto bigger & better things...like the SEC!!!!!

I know next year or years may be a little rough but I am so excited to now be apart of the SEC - best conference ever, right?!?!

Either way...I am so thankful to be an Aggie - win or lose. And here is a music video that our very good friends Britt Lloyd & Bradley Charanza produced...reminding us why Aggieland is so very special!

{Oh the Places You'll Go...Dr. Seuss Shower}

2011-11-19T20:36:00.000-08:00

First weekend in November, my sweet friends threw me a baby shower. Everything about it was fabulous!

It was a Dr. Seuss theme & they did such a great job putting it together.

I'll let the pictures do the talking...

Mother & daughter...best mom ever!

Look who showed up towards the end...AB :)

Got lots of great gifts...

Lots of Dr. Seuss books for B's library :)

Green eggs & ham (sandwiches)

the wonderful hostess...Nicki, Lacy, & Robyn

Allen's mom made the cutest Dr. Seuss blanket/quilt

My mother-in-law and my mom

My sweet friend Shanna who surprised me by coming to the shower. She drove almost 5 hours with her 2 little ones (3 & under) just to share this special day with me.

How cute is this table?!

Loved all the details & labels!

I am blessed with some really great friends!

Take 1: Maternity Pics

2011-11-19T11:28:00.000-08:00

I've been lucky enough to have not one, but two maternity photo sessions. All thanks to my wonderful husband & our new camera.

At first, I was thinking maybe we shouldn't have spent that much money on a camera but now I am so glad we did.

I also wasn't real keen on taking maternity pictures. Especially since I am getting to that uncomfortable, feeling not so cute/pretty stage, round-fat face stage. And to top it off, this week my feet & ankles started swelling. Let me tell you, Shrek feet are not at all attractive!

But AB insisted we do them & I thought I might regret it if I didn't. And who wants to live life in regret? Not this girl.

Here are a few from the ones we took last weekend.

35 Weeks

2011-11-19T11:09:00.000-08:00

How Far Along: 35 weeks

Size of baby: size of a honeydew melon, just over 5 lbs

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +17.5

Gender: It's a BOY!!! Brady Allen

Maternity Clothes: Dress pants/capris (pants are getting a little tight) & dresses, tunics with leggings - my favorite

Movement: yes! sometimes I wonder what he is doing in there

Sleep: is an ordeal...I get up several times a night

What I miss: being able to sit, lay comfortable & just being able to move around easily

Cravings: ice water - ice chips

Symptoms: feet are starting to swell, stopped up nose, difficult breathing at times, I cry easily, ha!

Best Moment this week: I had to go get blood-work done & while I was in the elevator a lady asked me when I was due, I told her Dec. 23rd. She replied "oh a Christmas baby, how fun!" She then asked if I knew what I was having & I said yes a boy! & then another guy with a dolly, says "Oh enjoy every minute, they grow up so fast! You'll look up and he will be 17."
By this time, the elevator doors were opening on the first floor & I had to hold back tears as they let me go first & said, "congrats & best of luck!" I was so overwhelmed with joy, realizing that people I didn't even know cared so much about my unborn child. Amazing how God shows me His love in the most unusual of places! I can't wait to meet our precious baby but on the other hand, I'm trying to savor every last few weeks of this pregnancy. It has truly been amazing!

34 Weeks

2011-11-13T20:29:00.000-08:00

AB, my sweet husband took maternity pictures of me this weekend, I'll post more this week! This was his favorite.

How Far Along: 34 weeks & 2 days

Size of baby: size of a large cantaloupe - about 4.5 lbs

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +14

Gender: It's a BOY!!! Brady Allen

Maternity Clothes: Dress pants/capris (pants are getting a little tight) & dresses, tunics with leggings

Movement: yes, but not as much as the week before

Sleep: not great...nose is always stopped up, makes it hard to breathe, wake up several times to go potty - time night is my least favorite.

What I miss: being able to sit, lay comfortable & being able to eat a full meal. I get full so fast b/c there isn't any room, ha!

Cravings: ice water & sweets

Symptoms: super tired in the afternoons, stopped up nose, difficult breathing at times

Best Moment this week: getting his room organized & somewhat in order...I'm ready to put the finishing touches on it! Artwork should be here this week :)

33 Weeks

2011-11-05T20:25:00.000-07:00

How Far Along: 33 weeks

Size of baby: size of a large squash - about 3.5 lbs

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +14

Gender: It's a BOY!!! Brady Allen

Maternity Clothes: Dress pants/capris (pants are getting a little tight) & dresses, tunics with leggings

Movement: yes, lots! afternoons, evenings especially

Sleep: sleep okay but wake up around 4am with stopped up nose & having a hard time breathing

What I miss: being able to sit/lay on my side comfortable & being able to do the things I used too easily (ie: moving the laundry to the washer & dryer, getting dressed, ha!)

Cravings: ice water, pickles

Symptoms: just so TIRED in the afternoon!! stopped up nose, difficult breathing at times

Best Moment this week: my baby shower today & my mom coming to visit, B is one lucky little boy!