stafford stories

week 35 baby crew

2012-02-15T13:16:00.002-06:00

UPDATE AFTER ULTRASOUND
ALL IS GREAT! HAPPINESS TO MY EARS!
WE ARE MEASURING AT 36 WEEKS AND 3 DAYS
CREW IS BETWEEN 5 AND 6 POUNDS

I wrote my recap on Monday evening so some of the details are based on writing it on that evening. I just haven't had time to do this post until today.

recap of doctor's appt from today:

1 pound weight gain

HB - 144

Not dilated at all...

back on monitor again today to track movement and Crew's heartbeat

next step appt at 2:30PM - ultrasound to measure fluid levels and see how Crew is doing... I will update later this evening!

We need Crew to stay inside a few weeks longer and grow grow grow!

week 35 baby crew!

Happy Heart Day

2012-02-14T08:00:00.000-06:00

Happy Valentine's Day

front of the card

back of the card

We wish you and your loved ones a happy heart day!

Grayson is taking a special treat to his favorite teachers at school.

I made a pinterest inspired dessert and I look forward to making them again after Crew arrives. I was told by my hubby that they are so good and Grayson LOVED them too!

Here is an image of the dessert from pinterest

I think it would be yummy with red velvet cake mix or a yellow cake mix too.

Here is a link to the recipe...easy to make if you need a last minute treat for your loved one!

and finally Grayson enjoying his valentine treat...

Have a sweet day!

Canvas Prints

2012-02-13T09:50:00.001-06:00

Just a quick post

I forgot to answer a comment I received a few days ago...

I tried to reach out to this person by email, but could not find your email address so I am hoping you will read this post today!

The canvas prints that you see in my house are from

Canvas on Demand and most/all of the time I usually purchase a great deal that is featured on Groupon.

Today you can get a great deal so check it out here!

It is a $45 for ONE 16X20 Gallery-Wrapped Canvas including Shipping and Handling it is an original value of $126.95

this deal ends today so make sure you check it out!

I was not asked to promote this company someone just asked me a question and I thought that I would share it with all of you.

Happy Monday!

It is snowing here today so soon we are bundling up and going to experience the 1st snow fall of 2012.

week 06 - frame a day

2012-02-12T14:38:00.001-06:00

Week 06 frame a day

This week all pictures were taken with my iPhone and I also used the app Phonto to capture a thought for each day.

also I received a comment about the bracelet that I did in my last post that has the boy's name on it I received that as a gift and unfortunately the jewelry store doesn't have anymore...

sorry it is adorable and I love it. If I find something similar I will make sure to let everyone know.

Happy Sunday!

Just Catching Up

2012-02-11T06:06:00.002-06:00

Yesterday Grayson and I had a great Friday...

He was so fun, no whining, no crying fits, etc...

I haven't mentioned this before, but Grayson has been going through a stage where he whines A LOT and CRIES when he doesn't get his way. I know that all of these moments are just stages that he will go through, but it was nice to have a ENTIRE day where he was HAPPY, LAUGHING, PLAYING, and TALKING ALL DAY LONG with the exception of when he took a 3 hour nap.

During nap time I spent time catching up on the February Photo of the Day Challenge and finishing up WASHING endless amounts of clothing for Crew. It is all clean and in storage totes until our nursery furniture arrives. Which will not arrive for another 2 weeks.

I also completely went through all of Grayson's drawers and cleaned out clothes, PJ's, shoes, and socks that don't fit. The only thing remaining is his closet. I plan on finishing that today!

Also this week I completely went through all my drawers and my side of the closet which included my shoe bins and organized.

I took so much to goodwill and my friend stopped by and went through my clothes. She ended up taking a lot of it! It feels good to have organized drawers and closets.

With that I am updating Our to do List before Crew arrives:

1. Crew's Nursery Furniture Needs to arrive and be setup in his room

~~2. Order Crew a chair like Grayson's for pictures - done and completed 01/15/2012~~

~~3. Get the carpets cleaned in Crew's Nursery~~

~~4. Crew's Bedding waiting for it to be completed and picked up~~

~~5. Crew's coming home outfit need to figure out what I want and purchase...decisions decisions!~~

6. Organize ALL closets in our house

~~My closet and drawers~~

~~Chad's closet and drawers~~

Grayson's closet and ~~drawers~~

~~Crew's closet and drawers - need to also wash all clothes that are currently in the attic and organize by sizes~~

~~7. Find a toy chest for the playroom - the little toys are getting out of hand and they need a home after Grayson is done playing with them.~~

~~8. Finalize Health Insurance for the boys!~~

9. Register at the hospital before delivery day

10. Finalize plans for Grayson on delivery day

11. Finalize Maternity Leave for myself and all the details - making progress and hopefully should have this completed soon :)

12. Decide on what to wear and take to the hospital for myself

13. Take bounce seat, baby bathtub, ~~car seat~~, ~~swing~~, and ~~nap nanny~~ out of the attic

14. Pack bags for myself, Grayson, and Crew. Chad will also have to pack his bag too for the hospital.

~~15. Organize cabinet in kitchen for the boys, clean bottles, and get breastfeeding things organized.~~

~~16. Register for baby shower~~

17. Setup Pack N Play in our room

~~18. Chad wants to paint our bedroom and bathroom before Crew comes, knowing him he will do it!~~

~~19. Decide on doing something special with Grayson before Crew comes... ideas? This task is complete thanks to a blog reader for the idea!~~

20. Complete taxes for the year - everything is ready just need to schedule time with our tax guy!

21. Organize important documents in one spot

22. Catch up on Mixbook Photobooks

I feel as if I accomplished a lot this week!

Before I go I am adding my February Photo of the Day Update to this post

Day 07-10

Have a great weekend!

Show Us Your Life - Working Moms

2012-02-10T10:15:00.001-06:00

Kelly at Kelly's Korner is hosting

Show Us Your Life - Working Moms

so I thought I would link up this week!

As many of you know I am a working mom. Grayson goes to school everyday of the week and most Fridays I am able to keep him home and be just a mommy. I treasure those days with Grayson!

I am trying to spend every moment with him on those Fridays as we only have about 5 more Fridays or less before Crew is here and than my time will be divided.

I did a working mom post on my blog this past summer as well as I did a organization post that might interest working moms too.

Here is the link to the working mommy post I wrote in July

and the

my organization tips post I wrote this past January

Thanks Kelly for supporting all moms!!!!

I look forward to checking out all the working mommy posts today on Kelly's blog!

Happy Friday!

Breakfast Buddies

2012-02-09T06:22:00.000-06:00

I always thought it would be neat if I had a little boy that had a favorite toy, blanket, or anything that he could not live without. We have a favorite blanket and of course we have his beloved paci's that he adores.

As for toys woody and buzz lightyear are those two toys that he looks for every morning and after I pick him up from school each afternoon. I personally think it is adorable!

On this particular morning they had breakfast with Grayson

February Photos

2012-02-08T08:00:00.000-06:00

Just playing catch up on my February Photo Challenge!

I only posted day 01 so I am playing catch up with Day 02-06

some of the days I didn't do because I was busy or forgot to take an image of the subject that was for the day!

I like the ideas of these photos because it makes me think outside of a typical image I would normally take!

week 34 baby crew

2012-02-07T11:31:00.000-06:00

Week 34 baby crew!

With 6 weeks or less to go

I am feeling okay having contractions daily and by the end of the day I am SO tired and my patience is wearing thin these days!

At our appointment last week Crew's heartbeat would start out at a typical speed that we are use to hearing then it would drop. This happened several times. So for about 45 minutes or so I was hooked up to the heartbeat machine and they did a fetal stress test. It was concerning in my eyes because when this happened with Grayson we had him the same day. All I kept thinking is we are NO where near ready for Crew and he has to bake a bit longer.

After the test my doctor just asked that I take it easy, watch closely for fetal movements and pay attention to the contractions I am having. So since the appointment I have tired my best to take it easy and I worry all day about movement. I am REALLY looking forward to my appointment on February 15th, 2012.

As for my sugar levels my doctor stated that all is going well, but I can't change my diet I still have to continue with no sugar or carbs.

Now for a Week 34 Update

I was already in comfy clothes for the night when we took these pictures and I look really tired, but I guess that goes with being 34 weeks pregnant!

Other news is our nursery furniture for Crew's room will not be here for another 2 or 3 weeks.

I was upset to hear this news, but I know in the end everything will get done. I have great friends that can help too. My mom will be at our house shortly after Crew arrives so she can help out too.

So we decided that all clothes for Crew will come down from the attic starting this week to be washed and we will label totes with sizes until the furniture arrives. This way that task can be completed and I can get Grayson's closet and drawers organized.

Because Crew's arrival could be earlier than we thought...

week 05 - frame a day

2012-02-05T08:00:00.000-06:00

This week's frame a day is all about using my iPhone to create a week full of memories.

I used my camera or the instagram app to create all pictures and than I used the Red Stamp app to create the templates you see.

I now know I can keep up with this 366 day project after Crew arrives.

a visit from Nana

2012-02-04T08:42:00.002-06:00

We have Chad's mom here visiting for the weekend and he has enjoyed the extra attention

and of course he got spoiled...

a new Buzz Lightyear

he now carries around Buzz and Woody everywhere

Have a great weekend we are spending the next few days relaxing at home and visiting with Nana!

Update on our Stafford List

2012-02-02T12:11:00.000-06:00

I feel more accountable if I update this list each week so please bare with me...

Still no baby furniture and I REALLY WISH IT WAS HERE!!!!!

I am going crazy waiting for it to arrive, it must be here before Crew. Especially after my appointment yesterday our little peanut might be here earlier than I thought.

Hopefully after my next appointment which is in two weeks we will have a better understanding of when Crew will arrive etc. Right now my focus is to take it easy a bit more...slow down...and focus on fetal movements and contractions.

Here is our updated list and a few pictures

(I crossed off the items we have completed)

1. Crew's Nursery Furniture Needs to arrive and be setup in his room

~~2. Order Crew a chair like Grayson's for pictures - done and completed 01/15/2012~~

~~3. Get the carpets cleaned in Crew's Nursery~~

~~4. Crew's Bedding waiting for it to be completed and picked up~~

~~5. Crew's coming home outfit need to figure out what I want and purchase...decisions decisions!~~

6. Organize ALL closets in our house

My closet and drawers

~~Chad's closet and drawers~~

Grayson's closet and drawers

Crew's closet and drawers - need to also wash all clothes that are currently in the attic and organize by sizes

~~7. Find a toy chest for the playroom - the little toys are getting out of hand and they need a home after Grayson is done playing with them.~~

8. Finalize Health Insurance for the boys!

9. Register at the hospital before delivery day

10. Finalize plans for Grayson on delivery day

11. Finalize Maternity Leave for myself and all the details - making progress and hopefully should have this completed soon :)

12. Decide on what to wear and take to the hospital for myself

13. Take bounce seat, swing, and nap nanny out of the attic

14. Pack bags for myself, Grayson, and Crew. Chad will also have to pack his bag too for the hospital.

~~15. Organize cabinet in kitchen for the boys, clean bottles, and get breastfeeding things organized.~~

16. Register for baby shower

17. Setup Pack N Play in our room

~~18. Chad wants to paint our bedroom and bathroom before Crew comes, knowing him he will do it!~~

19. Decide on doing something special with Grayson before Crew comes... ideas?

20. Complete taxes for the year

21. Organize important documents in one spot

Here are a few images of our master bedroom and bath, Chad finished painting these two rooms over the past two weekends and I love how they turned out!

most of the wall color is Bittersweet Chocolate Glidden Brand at Walmart and we did one accent wall that is a Pale Jade color Glidden Brand at Walmart.

Here is the master bath same paint was used

You can't see it in either of these images but we have a small toilet room in our bathroom and we painted it the Pale Jade color and it made the room appear twice the size. I really love how it all turned out!

Now he wants to redo our powder room...

stay tuned for that remodel just need to get some ideas off of pinterest first.

day 01 - photo challenge February 2012

2012-02-02T06:35:00.001-06:00

Tuesday evening I wrote this post about a few photo a day options for the month of February.

See post here!

day 01 - your view today

day 01 - what they do

here are several images I took yesterday of the things Grayson did when he was with us before and after school

I hope you will be inspired to join me in this photo challenge for the month of February 2012

Show Us Your Plum

2012-02-01T15:41:00.002-06:00

Janette from The Johanson Journey Blog asked me to be apart of a series called Show Us Your Plum through a company called Pick Your Plum. Have you heard of them?

If not you can click here to go to the Pick Your Plum site.

They also have a facebook page

and if you are a fan of Pinterest (like me)

you can find several Pick Your Plum pins by clicking here

the link party will be hosted by both Janette from Johanson Journey Blog and Ashley from Cherished bliss it will be each Wednesday for the entire month of February.

Janette sent me a adorable purple scarf from the Pick Your Plum site.

Here I am doing my best to model the scarf for you.

Sorry self portraits in front of the mirror is all I had time for yesterday when I was preparing for this post.

I love the color

and with the warmer weather we have experienced this scarf was very light and not too hot to wear during the day.

This item was a perfect item to get from Janette, I like clothes and fashion.

So are you a Pick Your Plum follower?

If not go check them out today or even tomorrow...

You can like them on their facebook page or sign up for their newsletter on their website to find out what their daily deal is.

Today's deal is adorable...go check it out it involves baking.

The thing about Pick Your Plum is, there are very limited quantities at their discounted prices. So you need to react quickly... first thing the morning if possible to get these great deals.

You can also see other products at the link party on

Janette's or Ashley's Blog.

I will be back next week to show you more goodies.

the eve before February 2012

2012-01-31T21:06:00.001-06:00

Happy Eve before February 1st 2012

Isn't my little guy adorable

Happy Heart Month

We had these pictures taken this past Saturday by

Katie Cole Photography

Grayson was so shy at first, but slowly he warmed up and even gave Katie loves (that is what we call a hug or kiss at our house). He loves giving loves to kids and people he knows.

Thanks again Katie for being so patient and loving towards Grayson.

I thought that I would share a few photo ideas for the month that you might want to do each day to think outside of the standard portrait image of your loved ones.

Several people I follow on instagram did a January challenge similar to the February challenge shown below. It was neat to see the photos each day so I found this on pinterest and thought that I would share it with all of you.

Last February I did a Joy of Love Challenge each day and I looked back at my images from last year and here is a recap by day:

1 - what they do

2 - how they look

3 - then and now

4 - what they wear

5 - love to hate

6 - who they are

7 - generations

8 - gift from the heart

9 - passions and hobbies

10 - space

11 - dreams

12 - the eyes

13 - routines

14 - jewelry

15 - kiss

16 - together

17 - staying in

18 - going out

19 - when they're gone

20 - when they're home

21 - hands

22 - portrait

23 - sisters

24 - where

25 - when you love them the most

26 - the bromance

27 - what they say

28 - what they say

29 - create your own

I hope you will be inspired!

Happy Heart Month!

My Organization Tips

2012-01-31T12:00:00.000-06:00

A few questions I get asked ALL the time is

How do I do it all?

How do I stay organized?

How do I have a clean house?

How do I work and seem to have it all together every day?

I will first start by telling you that I do have a cleaning lady that comes once a week. I love it! I HATE cleaning bathrooms and if all she did was clean our bathrooms I would be one happy girl, but she does clean our house each week and does an amazing job. I am blessed to be able to have a cleaning lady because this does give me more time during the week and weekends to spend with Grayson and Chad and not clean or run around like a crazy person every night after work or during the weekend trying to clean. I know not everyone can have a cleaning lady so some tips I have for you is to do something each day that way you don't feel like you are spending an entire day (ie.Saturday) cleaning. I should have mentioned at the beginning of this post that I actually both Chad and I are VERY NEAT people... we like a clean and organized house. You can ask anyone that has been to our house or is friends with us that our house is always clean. As for being organized I will tell you we do have areas, like my side of the master closet that REALLY needs to be organized and clothes donated. It is on my list of things to do before baby Crew arrives. Chad and I both go through a phase twice a year where we organize all closets, cabinets, get rid of things etc. This helps us to not accumulate unnecessary things and helps our house stay organized. We are currently going through this phase right now. For example we just went through several kitchen cabinets and got rid of glasses and dishes that we no longer touch. We will donate these items this week to our local church compassion center. We also do this with clothes we no longer wear. As I stated earlier I still need to go through my closet and drawers. So if you feel as if things are unorganized or if you have too much take baby steps and do one room at a time. I promise getting rid of the clutter or extra things that you don't use will help and will make you feel so much better. We really try to only have our holiday decor and paper work that we need to save in storage in our house. That is Chad's ultimate goal for our attic storage.

I hope I am not boring you, but I thought that I would also share what I do each day to make things easier for me.

I make our bed every day after getting up

I dust our bedroom furniture almost everyday, it is dark and shows dust horribly

I straighten up Grayson's room and get his clothes ready for the day after he wakes up for the day

We do laundry as a team in our house some mornings Chad will start a load of laundry before going to work and I will put it in the dry when I am up for the day than we usually finish it up after work. I always do laundry on Sunday and make sure it is completely done before the work week begins. We probably do laundry twice or three times a week.

As for the the dishes and dishwasher... all dishes from each meal are cleaned up after the meal and put in the dishwasher. Each morning I unload the dishwasher while Grayson is eating breakfast.

Another tip I have is everything in our house has a "home"...

for example our keys go in the same spot everyday

or phones go in the same spot

my purse and work bag go in the kitchen each day

Grayson's diaper bag is always by the garage door

I think these things really help us stay organized that way we are not looking for these things each morning.

By now you are all thinking WOW she is SUPER organized...

it may appear that way based on what you read, but we do have moments where we get unorganized and need to spend some time on certain areas of our home. For example a few weeks ago I went through our freezer, fridge, and pantry and cleaned out all unnecessary items. It looks so much better and I know where everything is which helps with meals.

It may seem like I do it all, but I have amazing support and help from Chad. If you are still reading I hope something that I wrote helped.

All of this allows me to feel organized and keep our house some what in a clean state while we both work.

I enjoy having an organized and clean home because it gives me time in the morning, after work, and all weekend to PLAY!

Now we will see if this all continues when Crew arrives...

stay tuned!

week 04 - frame a day

2012-01-30T09:00:00.000-06:00

Week 04 - frame a day

week 33 baby crew

2012-01-29T13:25:00.001-06:00

Week 33

The images this week were taken with my iPhone because I left my camera battery at work and usually when Chad gets home from the day during the week I am already in my PJ's. It is just so much easier to get these pictures completed on the weekends.

I am looking forward to my appointment this week to talk to my doctor about Gestational Diabetes and see what she has to say about my sugar levels that I have recorded. I am hoping for some sort of good news. I do really well in the AM and at lunch time with my sugar levels. It is in the evening where I struggle to pass. I dislike that I can't eat what I want and because of this thought I think it makes it difficult.

I am moody and emotional over all of this and I dislike deciding what to eat or where to eat...because what I really want is a BIG piece of Chocolate Cake...HA!

Only 7 weeks or less to go... I can do this :)

4:52 close

2012-01-29T09:00:00.000-06:00

moments of close

these are the moments I captured this past week...

our moments of closeness

all of these wonderful ideas can be found by following Lemongrass

Photography and joining the one every seven photography challenge.

I enjoy it because it has allowed me to think outside of a standard picture of our family and capture different things that take place during the day or week.

20 Months Grayson

2012-01-28T12:50:00.000-06:00

Yes I am now just finishing up with Grayson's 20 Month Post it is 11 days overdue, but at least it is done :)

We had a tough time getting Grayson to take pictures. He was either more interested in playing, who can blame him or he wanted to stare at the TV. So I have photos from 2 different days we tried to get the "perfect" picture.

They may not be perfect, but it will be a month that I will remember how challenging it was to get Grayson to even look my way to take a picture.

Happy 20 Months to my Sweet Boy!

StickyGram Discount

2012-01-27T14:19:00.000-06:00

Hi Friends happy Friday!

I am SO glad today is Friday!

I wanted to share a discount code with all of you for STICKYGRAM!

StickyGram's are magnets that you can create with your Instagram images. We have several of them and the quality is GREAT!

the discount code is mlstafford26123

the code is good until Friday, February 3rd, 2012

you will get $2.00 off

Have a great weekend!

Thursday Tidbits

2012-01-26T12:08:00.000-06:00

Thursday Tidbits

I haven't done a post like this before, but I just thought I would share a few thoughts.

~ thank you so much for the comments and emails from my last post I appreciate every word. I plan to try several of the ideas that were sent to me. One comment left was, "how did I feel after having the 3 hour test?" I felt fine, however I am exhausted and I thought it was just because I am always on the go with Grayson and don't get to rest at all until bed time. I think that has something to do with it, however I have seen my energy level increase slightly since changing my diet. I hope I answered your question. If you are interested in hearing from others check out the comments on the last post :)

~ who doesn't LOVE pinterest...

I DO!

Anyways, I was on pinterest yesterday afternoon and I pinned a site suggestion for iPad's. When I went to the link which is peanutblossom.com she shared a link to Let's Lasso the Moon and she shared this adorable Valentine's wallpaper for your iPhone or iPad. It is adorable and I thought I would share with all of you!

~ yesterday I also spent some time going through my blog list I read daily and deleting blogs that don't do updates anymore. It makes me sad. I remember reading some of the blogs I deleted when they were going through infertility than they received an amazing blessing of getting pregnant and after they had their baby or babies no more blog posts. I spent the afternoon thinking how are they doing and wondering how old their babies are etc....

I may not update my blog everyday, but I am glad I have stuck with blogging after having Grayson and REALLY hope to continue to blog after Crew. I miss some of those blogs...

I know that some times you have to give up things such as blogging or social media after having a baby because it can become too much, but this really is my record keeper of Grayson and allows me to look back on what we have done over the past 20 months. I have YET to do anything with Grayson's baby book that he got from his Auntie JJ, however I do have all of his photobooks printed and updated.

~ our updated list before Crew arrives:

(I crossed off the items we have completed)

1. Crew's Nursery Furniture Needs to arrive and be setup in his room.

~~2. Order Crew a chair like Grayson's for pictures - done and completed 01/15/2012~~

~~3. Get the carpets cleaned in Crew's Nursery~~

~~4. Crew's Bedding waiting for it to be completed and picked up~~
5. Crew's coming home outfit need to figure out what I want and purchase...decisions decisions!
6. Organize ALL closets in our house
My closet and drawers
~~Chad's closet and drawers~~
Grayson's closet and drawers
Crew's closet and drawers - need to also wash all clothes that are currently in the attic and organize by sizes
~~7. Find a toy chest for the playroom - the little toys are getting out of hand and they need a home after Grayson is done playing with them.~~
8. Finalize Health Insurance for the boys!
9. Register at the hospital before delivery day
10. Finalize plans for Grayson on delivery day
11. Finalize Maternity Leave for myself and all the details
12. Decide on what to wear and take to the hospital for myself
13. Take bounce seat, swing, and nap nanny out of the attic
14. Pack bags for myself, Grayson, and Crew. Chad will also have to pack his bag too for the hospital.
15. Organize cabinet in kitchen for the boys, clean bottles, and get breastfeeding things organized.
16. Register for baby shower
17. Setup Pack N Play in our room
~~18. Chad wants to paint our bedroom and bathroom before Crew comes, knowing him he will do it!~~
19. Decide on doing something special with Grayson before Crew comes... ideas?

Slowly we are getting things completed!

living with...

2012-01-25T15:54:00.001-06:00

Living with Gestational Diabetes has not been FUN, but I will do what I have to do to have a healthy pregnancy these last 7 weeks.

One thing that I have learned is chocolate cannot be my friend for the last 7 weeks of my pregnancy. It is sad and it makes me moody from time to time. I LOVE chocolate! I also had to give up my daily chocolate milk each morning. I still can have my Nutragrain Bars each morning, which my nutritionist thought might be too many carbs, but my sugar levels have been great after eating them. Trust me I have "tested" several things. Which my OB doctor said I would probably do.

The main problem I have is lunch time. I am the type of person that will typically have a grilled cheese or peanut butter and jelly sandwich...something quick and easy. Since I work in a soul office I don't typically go out to eat for lunch. So at lunch I struggle a bit trying to figure out what to eat. Panera salads and half a chicken sandwich seems to be working. I tried to have a smoothie from Panera once and that didn't go well at all! Chad and I have gone on several lunch dates to help determine what I can and cannot eat. IT is helping as all of this is new to me.

As for dinner I have to try to stay away from pasta, pizza, rice, basically anything carb related. We did find pita wheat flat bread that I can have and we have made homemade pizza on these and my sugars were great. I also have had fajitas at home the only problem is that I can only have one tortilla shell, but I can eat all the meat I want. It has been a HUGE adjustment because after eating what I typically would eat if I didn't have restrictions I end up getting hungry before the two hours is up after each MAIN meal.

Plus if you don't know this about me I DO NOT LIKE veggies or eggs at all. Under the diet restrictions you can have the following all you want:

meat

vegetables

fats such as peanut butter, mayo, cream cheese, sour cream, whipping cream, avocados, olives, and oils

cheese

eggs

Nuts and Peanuts (which I cannot have)

All other food groups you can have a certain serving per each meal. I guess what I am trying to say is I like carbs, fruits, and chocolate BUT for now I have to limit or eliminate these things from my diet. I remember after learning the rules and restrictions on GD I went to the grocery store for the first time and to be HONEST with you I wanted to CRY I didn't know what to purchase or what to eat. I left that first shopping trip frustrated. I thought to myself how am I going to gain weight the remaining of this pregnancy eating a limited amount of food. Don't take this wrong there are a lot of options I am just a "picky" eater. So Chad made the trip for me and found several options for me to try in the first few weeks of this diet. Some have worked and some have not worked. I am still learning and by the time I get it all figured out Crew will be here!

I am not a fan about talking about food I actually HATE deciding where to eat or what to have for dinner each night. I eat to survive not the opposite of that makes sense.

I didn't write this post to complain I wrote this post to share my experience thus far. As well as, one to help others facing the same situation I am or two to get advice from all of you that have had Gestational Diabetes while being pregnant.

I am secretly hoping that the next 7 weeks will go by QUICKLY!

week 32 baby crew

2012-01-22T15:03:00.001-06:00

Happy Sunday

and

Happy 32 Weeks

We are happy and excited to have Crew join our family in 55 days

and I really think Grayson is going to LOVE having a playmate!

I am having a lot of Braxton Hicks contractions throughout the day, but they do subside when I sit and rest!

My back and hips are starting to hurt again and if I am sitting on the floor playing with Grayson and I get up to walk I feel like I am waddling...HA!

It is all worth it!

Week 03 - frame a day

2012-01-21T15:27:00.000-06:00

Week 03 Frame a Day

I have decided to do the frame a day/366 project each week different that way our book this year has something different on each page!

3:52 new

2012-01-19T10:58:00.002-06:00

new

Is the challenge put forth by the one every seven photography challenge. The only rule was you could not use people or animals.

My photo for the week is our something new

thank you notes

for our new bundle of joy that will join our family in March 2012!

These lovely cards were created by my friend Sarah!

She is so talented and I love how they turned out!

Check out Sarah's blog here and if you are interested in working with her on cards, invites, etc just email her!

You won't be disappointed!

BIG THANKS SARAH!

a list to do before Crew

2012-01-17T19:16:00.000-06:00

So I am making a list of things that "we" would like to get completed before Crew arrives. I figure if I write it all done and mark them off as they are completed my mind won't be racing with a million thoughts of what needs to get completed in 8 weeks.

1. Crew's Nursery Furniture Needs to arrive and be setup in his room.

2. Order Crew a chair like Grayson's for pictures - done and completed 01/15/2012

3. Figure out what type of animal (sock monkey) I want to use for pictures with Crew each month

4. Get the carpets cleaned in Crew's Nursery

5. Crew's Bedding waiting for it to be completed and picked up

6. Crew's coming home outfit need to figure out what I want and purchase...decisions decisions!

7. Organize ALL closets in our house

My closet and drawers

Chad's closet and drawers

Grayson's closet and drawers

Crew's closet and drawers - need to also wash all clothes that are currently in the attic and organize by sizes

8. Find a toy chest for the playroom - the little toys are getting out of hand and they need a home after Grayson is done playing with them.

9. Finalize Health Insurance for the boys!

10. Register at the hospital before delivery day

11. Finalize plans for Grayson on delivery day

12. Finalize Maternity Leave for myself and all the details

13. Decide on what to wear and take to the hospital for myself

14. Take bounce seat, swing, and nap nanny out of the attic

15. Pack bags for myself, Grayson, and Crew. Chad will also have to pack his bag too for the hospital.

16. Organize cabinet in kitchen for the boys, clean bottles, and get breastfeeding things organized.

17. Register for baby shower

18. Setup Pack N Play in our room

19. Chad wants to paint our bedroom and bathroom before Crew comes, knowing him he will do it!

20. Decide on doing something special with Grayson before Crew comes... ideas?

I am sure there is more, but for now that is our long list of things to do...

Sorry for the boring post, but now I have it all written down and can cross off once complete!

week 31 baby crew

2012-01-16T13:37:00.000-06:00

Week 31 Pregnancy Update

I hope these templates are still easy to read...

Here are a few images of Grayson that Chad took after he took my weekly picture!

I love them because we were both saying, "Grayson can you say cheese?" You can tell in the first image that he is saying it, at least we can...

I also love the last image of him looking at the chalkboard... I wonder what he is thinking...

This weekend I would point to my belly and say baby Crew and he would lay on it or kiss it. I wonder if he really knows what is going on. We will see!

Chad HAS been REALLY busy this weekend working on Crew's Nursery! It is turning out perfect and I can't wait to share the details with all of you! It is adorable and nothing like Grayson's Nursery!

Thanks hubby for all that you have done in Crew's Nursery and for your particular eye to detail I appreciate it so much!

Love you!

Week 02 - Frame a Day

2012-01-15T08:00:00.000-06:00

First I would like to share a little tip with all of you who are participating in the 366 project this year.

I used Mixbook for my frame a day book for 2011 and I saved all my images in one place by utilizing facebook, I do have them saved by each month on my hard drive. However I wanted to have one place to pull all the images over to a photobook and that is why I used facebook. I have since ordered my Mixbook photo book for 2011 and I have had SEVERAL issues in regards to getting it printed. It seems that my images that are in facebook and than transferred to the mixbook program are disappearing. Thus missing pictures that I thought were there. As a result I have to NOW start over basically...trust me I have tried everything and my sister Amie is looked at it for me, and we both have contacted Mixbook for support. Mixbook has been VERY supportive and they are not sure what is going on, but I wanted to give all you the heads up... don't transfer your images from facebook to Mixbook. I have created SEVERAL books through Mixbook and have not had ANY issues until now! I don't want you to have to go through the same pain I am going to have to go through to get my 2011 frame a day book. I hope this TIP helps!

Now onto Week 02 2012

can you please ignore the fact that I interchanged 366 and 365...

I noticed after I completed all the template files and didn't feel like going back and changing. Oh well!

this week's theme over at one every seven photography challenge by Lemongrass Photography is

CIRCLE

my plan for the week was to do all my images around a circle theme, but that didn't happen and it is okay.

I do have one simple image I captured of Grayson to describe circles his tunnel into his tent.

If you have any questions on anything in regards to the 366 project please let me know.

a friday

2012-01-14T14:45:00.000-06:00

a Friday spent with Grayson

Today I thought that I would do a post on a day spent with Grayson. I want to look back and remember the moments we had together just G and I!

Every morning our day starts with snuggle time in mommy's bed.

We watch Mickey Mouse Clubhouse for about 30 minutes at the most and Grayson is READY to go play!

While Grayson is playing I get breakfast ready for both of us. This morning waffle and bananas for Grayson and Mommy has water and oatmeal!

As Grayson eats I usually stand in the kitchen and eat my breakfast and check work emails and get a few reports completed.

After breakfast Grayson is off to his playroom to get a few toys that he ends up bringing into the kitchen to play with while I clean up the kitchen from breakfast and unload the dishwasher. Sometimes he helps with unloading the dishwasher, but today was a day of all play!

Once the kitchen is clean I change Grayson into his day clothes and we spend the morning playing. Today we colored!

Lunch time for Grayson

I am working on getting Grayson to sit at his big boy table for all meals and eat. He is doing great. I thought that he would get up and down a lot, but he doesn't. He makes a big mess, but I am also trying to teach him to keep it on his plate and when we are down we throw our food away in the trash! Only problem NOW he thinks EVERYTHING needs to go into the trash after breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Spoons, plates, and cups...

Today for lunch his blanket and his paci's joined him...

Nap time for Grayson

he loves this book, I loved that I was able to capture a moment of him saying Shhh just like in the book...

a sweet smile to mommy before I left his room

During nap time today, I took a nice relaxing shower, got ready for the day, and worked. I have a GREAT napping boy that takes between 2-4 hour naps each day so a lot can get completed in that time.

Grayson is UP!

We have a snack together and play play play!!!

On this particular day I decide to give Grayson dinner early because we are having dinner with friends later in the evening and Grayson seems to eat better when we are at home..

again here we are trying to eat at the BIG boy table

some day he will get the hang of getting the food to his mouth instead of his chair... it is all in learning and growing

Right after dinner we ALWAYS have BATH TIME!

Our final moment together just G and I driving to the resturant to meet friends for dinner!

I love my special days with Grayson!

Always on the lookout for a Target coupon for more Grayson supplies!

No News Doesn't Mean Good News

2012-01-11T20:39:00.001-06:00

So after not hearing back from the doctor last Friday or on Monday about my test results for my 3 hour glucose test I thought no news was good news.

Well I was wrong...

I didn't pass!

I was pretty upset about it all day yesterday. I haven't done anything differently from my pregnancy with Grayson and now my pregnancy with Crew. So I was so frustrated that I didn't pass, but after speaking with the Nutritionist today over the phone I feel a little bit better. I have my first meeting with Nutritionist on Friday AM to review foods to avoid and to kit my diabetic kit to monitor my sugar levels each day. I am sure there is more to it and I will get the full details on Friday. I just keep telling myself it is for only 10 more weeks or less.

This seems like the first bump in the road during this pregnancy so I will be thankful for a uneventful pregnancy thus far.

This has nothing to do with my pregnancy, but my sister posted a link on her facebook page earlier today and the blog post was amazing. So I thought I would share it with all of you!

Ignite Your Life

Maternity Video {Crew}

2012-01-09T14:18:00.000-06:00

My sweet sister Amie is always capturing sweet memories for us and she has done it again with a wonderful video of our time together capturing my pregnancy with Crew.

Thanks again Amie!

Please note that there is music and the song is

"I Get To Be The One" by JJ Heller

week 30 - baby Crew

2012-01-08T15:27:00.001-06:00

Week 30 Update

I welcome week 30 and the countdown begins 10 weeks or less. It is exciting, but we have a lot to do before Crew arrives.

It will be a busy last few months, but FUN!

I haven't heard back if I passed my 3 hour glucose test... I am hoping no news is GOOD news! Either way I am calling tomorrow to find out for sure!

Happiness Week 1 - Frame a Day Project

2012-01-07T13:26:00.000-06:00

Yes I am still doing the frame a day project thanks to the iPhone App Project 365. It is so easy!

I decided I would also "try" to do a recap at the end of the week with a storyboard so I can easily upload it to my frame a day photo book through Mixbook.

I am also doing a photo a week challenge through Lemongrass Photography that Amie sent me. It is a theme a week, this week the theme is "HAPPINESS"

Week 1:52

a picture a week that describes HAPPINESS to me besides all of the images above!

The image brings happiness to me because the pure love Grayson's Wubbanubs bring to him when he is sleeping. They comfort him when he is about to fall asleep, when he is sleeping, and when he wakes up. When Grayson is sad you give him his Wubbanub and it brings a smile to his face and he is happy again. My final thought on happiness of this image is the light reflecting from the sun that we have sunny days in the first week in January 2012.

Final Christmas Moments

2012-01-06T12:00:00.000-06:00

I know I already did my Christmas Post several days ago, but my sister just sent me a few images she took and I want them on here for memories!

Thanks Amie!

a new year {2012}

2012-01-05T12:00:00.000-06:00

A New Year 2012

Grayson doesn't seem happy about it, but we are happy to see 2012!

We have so many blessings coming to us in 2012

My main resolution for 2012 is:

TO SURVIVE!

I will have 2 babies under the age of 2, but I feel so blessed to be the one they call Mommy!

I also want to commitment myself to completing a daily devotional study this year. Spending more quiet time with God and his word is important to me. I feel that I can give up things such as watching TV, blogging, facebooking, and tweeting before bed to spend quiet time with GOD. I have spent the past 5 days doing this each night and it has been very rewarding.

We Welcome 2012 with open arms!

Week 28 and Week 29 baby Crew

2012-01-05T08:00:00.000-06:00

With the holiday I got behind on my weekly posts on baby Crew!

but

we are back

Week 28

Since we were in Montana with my family I got the opportunity to get a few images taken of Crew and I by Amie. The session didn't go as planned, but with the cooler weather and a playground near by Grayson was not interested at all in taking pictures.

Can you blame him...

I have a few images I love and if you are interested in looking at them you can check out my sister's blog post by clicking here!

Thanks Amie for always being apart of these special moments and helping us great memories for our sons!

We love you!

Crew's 1st Plane Ride

Week 29

a few images with Grayson

Please pray that I pass my 3 hour Glucose Test tomorrow...

it is going to be a long morning!

iPhone Picture Apps and a Story

2012-01-04T14:02:00.000-06:00

Starting the new year and the frame a day project I have found several different FUN camera apps and more to help with my 365 day project for 2012.

I will need all the quick help I can get with baby Crew joining our family in 10 weeks. Since I know that ALL of you are busy just like me I thought I would share my findings.

These are apps for the iPhone not sure if you can get them on any other phones.

I love instagram and the quality of the pictures are great! In fact I recently purchased magnets through StickyGram. I can't wait to see how they look.

Some other fun camera apps I play with are:

Fisheye4Free

Vintage Cam

Camera!!

Camera+

Plus I am utilizing Project 365 APP for my pictures I take on my phone each day! You should check it out!

here is an example of what mine looks like right now:

I like that you can set a reminder to add a picture each day! This way you NEVER forget!

Feel free to leave a comment on some of your favorite photo apps I would love to try them out!

I also want to leave you with a story my sister Amie shared in her photography newsletter this month. It is a great read and I hope it will inspire us all to step back and take more pictures of our kids and of ourselves with our loved ones. I believe pictures are priceless!

The link I am sharing is to the actual photographers website that received the letter.

A Letter on my door step. Portraits are more than paper.

Christmas Vacation Candids

2012-01-03T14:09:00.000-06:00

I seem to always have my phone by my side and a lot of the pictures I took during our trip to Montana were on my iPhone. Lucky enough the iPhone has great apps and the new iPhone 4S has a great camera!

Here are some of our Christmas Vacation Memories in photos

Grayson and his "big boy undies"

take note they are over his diaper...

After Christmas Day Shopping

Drew was not feeling well at all and this is not normal to see this little guy sleeping...

snuggle time with Auntie A...

all the boy cousins...

Marley and Grayson having lunch together...

while G was sleeping I got to spend one on one time with Marley coloring...

Auntie JJ with all the kids...

Auntie Mae with Marley and Aidan...

one of my favorite images Prince Aidan and Princess Marley...

sweet Marley giving loves to Grayson...

side by side going for a ride...

Auntie Mae playing at the park with the kids...

thanks Meahgen!

the two youngest boys trying to play the Wii...

the TV blank stare...ha!

Wonderful memories captured!

Christmas 2011

2012-01-01T21:09:00.001-06:00

Our Christmas Eve started with a Christmas Eve Morning Brunch with our friends. It was a great way to start the day!

After brunch it was time for the kids to exchange gifts...

Grayson was spoiled and Crew got a wonderful gift too!

Thanks Fisher Family!

for the record the iPad is not a gift it was in my diaper bag for our trip and Kelsey and Grayson wanted to watch a movie after opening gifts!

After spending a few hours with our friends we headed back home to get ready for our trip to Montana. Grayson took a nap and Chad and I finished up packing and getting our house in order.

Around noon we left for the airport to begin our journey to Montana!

It was indeed a journey...

on our way to the airport and so happy!

and after waiting 2 hours to leave Northwest Arkansas we finally are on the plane to Denver

finally in Denver and look at the beautiful snow

before leaving Northwest Arkansas we knew that we would miss our connection and since we did in fact fly on Christmas Eve Day it was the LAST flight to Billings, Montana. So we spent Christmas Eve in a hotel in Denver, Colorado. We made the best of it and enjoyed our time together as a family in the hotel.

Grayson had a great time...

Here he is dancing to the Alvin and the Chipmunk Movie

With no luggage and no change of clothes for either Chad or I (I did manage to pack extra clothes for Grayson in his diaper bag) Chad walked in the snow to a local Walgreens that was open to get PJ's, toothbrushes, a hairbrush, milk for Grayson, and a few other things to get us through the night and the next morning!

Thanks Chad for saving the day...we love you!

We all went to BED EARLY as we had to get up at 4AM to head back to the airport for our flight to Montana. It will be a Christmas Eve night that we will remember for sure!

We finally arrived in Billings, Montana at 10AM and with some excited cousins greeting us and ready to OPEN CHRISTMAS gifts.

It was a busy house full of excited kids opening gifts...

here are just a few images of our Christmas Day

We are VERY blessed to SPEND Christmas with my family... this was a 1st in 5 plus years that all of my sisters were together to spend Christmas together in Montana! It will be a Christmas to remember ALWAYS!

Thank you to my family for all the wonderful memories!

In a few weeks we are heading to Chad's family to celebrate Christmas. We needed a few days at home as both Grayson and I came home from Montana with a horrible cough and Grayson has spent most of this past weekend sleeping and recovering from all the fun he had with his cousins!

19 Months Old {Grayson}

2012-01-01T15:03:00.000-06:00

Grayson at 19 Months Old

Merry Christmas

2011-12-25T06:00:00.000-06:00

Merry Christmas to all our blogging friends!

We hope you have a beautiful holiday with family and friends!

Our Christmas at Home

2011-12-23T22:46:00.001-06:00

Before leaving on a jet plane we had a special early Christmas with Grayson

The night before Chad spent a few hours getting all the toys ready and in front of the Christmas tree!

While he was doing that I premade sticky buns for our morning Christmas treat...they were yummy!

Of course the morning we would LOVE for Grayson to wake up early he sleeps in until 8AM. Chad went and got Grayson from his crib while I waited in the living room and I recorded a video of him walking into the living room and seeing all his Christmas gifts.

It was so neat to see the excitement in his eyes and it brought a smile to my face all day. Grayson had a great morning playing with all of his new toys. It was also great to see Grayson open the gifts on his own. He knows what he is doing... hopefully he will do great opening his gifts on Christmas morning at my Mom's house.

Here is the video it is around 3 minutes so don't feel like you have to watch it. It is more for the family to see his excitement!

and now for some photos to capture the excitement from the eyes of a child

Grayson's favorite toy

finally got off of the ride on toy to open presents

boy oh boy drums in our house...if you know Chad personally you will be shocked to find out that he purchased this drum set for Grayson all on his own. I had nothing to do with it!

playing with his new farm set

1st breakfast at his new table and chairs

family moments in front of our Christmas tree. All in PJ's enjoying this sweet Christmas moment together!

art project

2011-12-21T20:28:00.003-06:00

Well I wanted to recreate our Christmas Tree foot prints for cards for Grayson's teachers, but doing this project on my own turned out to be VERY unsuccessful. So instead I just let Grayson play with the paint.

I am so excited tomorrow is my final day of work until 2012...

week 27 baby crew

2011-12-20T08:00:00.000-06:00

Last Week we did have our 3D/4D ultrasound and Crew didn't want to play so we didn't get too many great images... so we will get to go back in January 2012. This is exciting for me because we get to see his sweet face one more time before delivery day!

here is one ultrasound image

now for my week 27 update

a visit with Santa

2011-12-19T13:27:00.002-06:00

Grayson's Visit with Santa

this pictures says it all...

no tears at all...

Since we watch POLAR EXPRESS all the time at our house we have been telling and showing Grayson who Santa Clause is so I don't know if he was shocked in this picture that it was Santa that was holding him or if he was just looking at all of Santa's hair...

it was a priceless picture!

Here is the picture of Grayson sitting on Santa's lap!

I wonder what next year will bring with two boys...

Dedication Day

2011-12-18T14:57:00.001-06:00

Over the Thanksgiving Weekend we had Parent Dedication Day at Cross Church. We finally were in town for this special day and we were able to participate in the dedication of our son Grayson.

The message on this day was:

You Will Love the Lord with ALL of your HEART, with ALL of your SOUL, and with ALL of your MIGHT! Deuteronomy 6:5

It is the perfect frame work for us as Grayson's parents to teach and foster into Grayson's life.

I will have to add for memory sake that Grayson did cry and was wanting down out of Chad's arms the entire time. Oh well things can't always be perfect...

Here is our professional picture from the event!

Christmas Program 2011

2011-12-17T20:37:00.002-06:00

Christmas Program 2011

Grayson's school...

Grayson helping daddy open our gift...

I love how excited he is in the pictures!

Grayson sort of participating during the Christmas Program. He was more interested in hanging with mommy and daddy then singing and dancing. At one point he ran up to his teacher Miss Tammy and sat on her lap. He loves Miss Tammy!

Thanks Daddy for coming!

and one final picture captured...

creating CHRISTMAS traditions

2011-12-17T14:25:00.000-06:00

Last Weekend Chad, Grayson, and I did a Pinterest inspired Christmas Project. It was fun and a wonderful memory. I am hoping to do this each year with Grayson and with Crew too!

Creating family traditions this time of year is so fun!

We have created a few traditions this year:

Elf on the Shelf

Painting Projects for gifts

a book a day to unwrap until Christmas

365 Day Project Mixbook

2011-12-16T09:00:00.000-06:00

First I will start this post with sharing that Mixbook did not ask me to write this post. I am doing this post because I was having a conversation with a few girls on twitter about the 365 Day Project that I did this year and I shared with them that I use Mixbook. With several questions later it was decided that I should do a post on this topic. So here you go!

Here is a peek at my book for your review...

it is MANY PAGES so don't feel as if you have to look at every page you will get the idea after a few pages. A little side note I love looking at how much Grayson has changed through the months. This book is my FAVORITE and I am so glad that I took the time to take a picture everyday.

I use the blank canvas template photo book. I like this template because I like the images to be the highlight of the pages.

You might ask so I will tell you... I update this book at least once a week so it is up to date and not overwhelming at the end of the year...just a little Melissa tip for you!

As for taking a picture everyday

this is what worked for me:

~ I used my iPhone to take pictures

~ I used the APP on my iPhone instagram to take pictures

~ I also used my camera

~ I found ONE location to keep all of the images. This year I used Facebook and created two different albums to house these images. I liked using Facebook because I could directly upload the images directly to Mixbook. It also allowed for family and close friends to see images of Grayson every day!

A few changes I plan to make for next year as you can see my book is 93 pages and I still have a few days left to add before I order this book in January 2012. With that many pages I think it is going to be expensive. It will be well worth the money...

Also if you follow GROUPON they sometimes have GREAT deals on Mixbook. So watch for those deals too!

So next year I plan to do one page for the entire week, so that in the end I only have 52 pages. I also plan to better document on each picture what took place on that particular day. My sister Amie did this project for her boys and I LOVED how she took the time to write a quick phrase or sentence about what her boys were doing on that day. Finally I will only have one book and coming in March when Crew joins our family I will just include him in this project.

I hope this post encourages you to do the 365 day project. If you have any specific questions please let me know. I am happy to help!

By the way, Lenovo coupons come in handy for tech projects.

Week 26 baby crew

2011-12-15T12:00:00.000-06:00

Week 26 Update

I did the recap a few days ago and was hoping to post before our 3D/4D Ultrasound, but I didn't have time. Anyways back to the update. For this pregnancy I am having a lot of hip pains that make my right leg numb. I really think Crew is sitting on a nerve and after seeing him during my ultrasound his entire body is on the right side of my stomach. His head is down and in the corner by my right hip. So for now I just try to relax when I can, use a heating pad, and take warm baths.

You can see Grayson in the corner of the image that is the best we could do on this particular day he was sad and wanted to go and get in the car and go bye-bye.

See you tomorrow with the Mixbook Photo Book Post!

18 Month Well Visit

2011-12-14T21:11:00.001-06:00

Today was a busy day for the Stafford Family. It started with Grayson having his 18 month well visit! For the first time I felt that we are finally going to a well visit and Grayson didn't have a cough or a runny nose. He seems so happy and healthy! Little did I know...

Grayson's ear tubes are GONE :( I am so sad!

I was really hoping to make it another season with tubes. On top of that Grayson has an ear infection. NO FUN! We are on antibiotics and ear drops. I hope it is clear before we get on a plane next week.

Our wait in the doctor's office was longer than normal and Grayson was into EVERYTHING...

I tried hard to keep him busy and out of things, but boy was he curious of everything.

Growing Grayson Updates:

Weight - 22 pounds 14 ounces (10.63% growth percentile)

Height - 31" (10.20% growth percentile)

Head - 47.5 cm (37.52% growth percentile)

Before leaving Grayson got two shots and was so interested in the band-aids he kept trying to pull down his pants. Once we took the band-aids off during bath time tonight Grayson played with them in the bath tub and he also had to hold them in his hands the rest of the night...silly boy!

During lunch hour Chad and I met at my doctor's office to have a 3D/4D ultrasound to see baby Crew.

He didn't play well at all and had his hands over his face the entire time. We got a few good images and confirmed that he is still a boy!

We get to go back after Christmas and see Crew again and hopefully we will get some good images. I am just happy to see his sweet face again before March 2012.

I took the below image with my phone...

Sorry again as always for my lack of blogging...

Tomorrow I will have my Week 26 Post Up and on Friday I am going to do a Post on my 365 Day Project Mixbook Photo Book. I plan to share my book, share tips, and my ideas for 2012.

week 24 and 25 baby crew

2011-12-07T20:30:00.001-06:00

Work has kept me extremely busy...

so yes I am so behind on blogging, but we didn't forgot to take pictures!

Here is my Week 24 and Week 25 Pregnancy Post Update

fun image both of us caught of guard...ha!

this is the best image we could get of Grayson the moment we took my week 25 picture...

he was upset because we told him that we were leaving, but we didn't leave at the exact moment and he was MAD!

This pregnancy has gone by so quickly and I am looking forward to March 2012 when we meet our little guy!

a few more baby items FOR SALE

2011-12-03T09:42:00.001-06:00

Yesterday's monogram swap was successful...

Just waiting to hear back from a few girls and most of the items are sold!

So I thought that I would post a few more things

This diaper bag has NEVER been used!

I got it to use for Grayson and than Chad bought me another one that I ended up using all the time.

It is a Kaleidoscope Diaper Bag

I paid - $80.00

asking $60.00 + shipping for it it has NEVER been used and has all it's accessories as well.

If you are interested in this diaper bag please email me at mlstafford26@yahoo.com

BIG BROTHER SHIRTS

these two shirts came from ETSY called PiddleDesigns

they RUN small I purchased size 12 month and I wish I would have gotten size 18 months

THEY are in excellent condition

price for each = $8.00 plus $3.00 for shipping

here is a better picture of Grayson in the big brother shirt

GRAYSON pillow

excellent condition as well

back side of pillow is a solid orange minky fabric

I paid - $35.00

asking price - $15.00 + $3.00 for shipping

If you are interested in any of the above items please contact me through email at mlstafford26@yahoo.com

Grayson Monogram Clothing Sale

2011-12-02T08:03:00.000-06:00

I am linking up to Kelly's Blog and think the monogram swap is a WONDERFUL idea!

Grayson has a lot of MONOGRAM items that are hard to see go, but since I can't keep everything it will be nice to see them go to a sweet boy named Grayson.

I took the images of each item last night and most of them were folded in a tote and in storage. I will also tell you that I did not dry any of his monogram clothing. I just washed them on delicate and hung them to air dry.

SHIPPING IN THE US ONLY

SHIPPING CHARGE WILL BE an ADDITIONAL $3.00

On onto the sale!

1. {GSK} 0-3 Month Gown with matching hat

price - $15.00

sorry the image is facing the wrong way...

2. 3-6 Month Gown

{GSK Monogram}

price - $10.00

3. 3-6 Month Gown

Grayson down the side

price - $15.00

4. Grayson 0-3 Month Onesie with G initial on the bottom of the onesie

price - $12.00/each

5. Grayson 0-3 Month Onesie with G initial on the bottom of the onesie

price - $12.00/each

6. same details as above

7. same details as above

8. same as above

9. {GSK} 3-6 Month Suspender Onesie

price = $6.00

10. Grayson 3-6 Month Onesie with G initial on the bottom of the onesie

price = $12.00

11. 0-3 Month Onesie

Price - $10.00

12. 0-3 Months runs small

single G initial on onesie

price - $5.00

13. 6 Months Halloween Grayson Onesie

price = $6.00/each

14. same as above

SOLD!!! 15. Holiday 6-12 Months Onesie

price - $12.00

SOLD!!! 16. Holiday 6 Months Onesie

price $6.00

17. Grayson PJ's size 6 months front of PJ's are plain Green and button up the bottom has the monogram on it

price - $6.00

Most of Grayson's clothes were only worn once or twice. If you are interested in any of the above items I ask that you email me at

mlstafford26@yahoo.com

please tell me which item you want by telling me the number beside each item that way I can clearly identify which item you want and can immediately go back to this POST and mark SOLD as soon as I get your email. I also ask that you give me your mailing address and if you can pay via paypal that would be great! Payment details we can work out through email as well. I hope that all the details that I have provided are clear. If you have any questions please send me an email.

Thanks and happy shopping!

If this is successful I have a few more items, but since this is my first blog sale I didn't want it to be so overwhelming.

Happy Friday!

Riffraff WINNER

2011-11-25T10:24:00.001-06:00

Happy Black Friday and happy shopping to all!

The winner of the RIFFRAFF GIVEAWAY is

Congrats to Jessica from jakesmommie.blogspot.com

I know you are going to be so excited that you won!

Please email me by Monday so I can get all your info so I can send it to the RIFFRAFF girls and they will mail you your beautiful necklace!

Thanks to all that participated!

Thanksgiving Eve

2011-11-23T20:37:00.001-06:00

Happy Thanksgiving Eve!

I hope everyone has a WONDERFUL Thanksgiving!

We are spending the day with friends and enjoying a few extra days with Grayson at home!

week 23 baby crew!

2011-11-22T14:24:00.001-06:00

17 WEEKS to go!

This pregnancy is going by quick!

BUT

I am okay with that I can't wait to meet our little man...

don't forget about the RIFFRAFF giveaway!

Check out the complete details here!

Please leave your comment on the giveaway post only NOT on this post!

Thanks!

Riffraff LOVE

2011-11-21T08:00:00.000-06:00

Who doesn't LOVE Riffraff...

it is an adorable boutique in Fayetteville, Arkansas and many of my local friends love shopping here. They have everything from clothing, jewelry, frames, small pieces of vintage style furniture, great gift ideas, and much much more!

It is one of those shops where you can spend so much time browsing around looking at everything. Plus it is so neatly designed and the decor is amazing! It is a real MUST SEE if you live in the area.

but

if you don't it is okay too!

The store has an amazing Facebook Page {Riffraff} that they are always updating with images of product in their store. Go check it out today and like their facebook page!

I would also like to mention that they have several AMAZING holiday clothing items that you have to check out...

here is a direct link to the photos!

If you like something that you see let the girls know by leaving a comment on the image or contacting the store. The girls at Riffraff will be happy to ship the item to you.

{note that all store info is on the first image of this post}

Now onto the giveaway...

if you have followed my blog for awhile you know how much I love big necklaces. In fact I always get asked where did I get my necklace. Many of my necklace purchases have in fact come from Riffraff! So the perfect item for me to giveaway is a beautiful necklace for you to wear this holiday season.

All you need to do is go to Riffraff Facebook page and like their page and come back and leave me a comment stating that you liked Riffraff's Facebook Page and you are entered to win this beautiful necklace!

If you are on Twitter and you follow Riffraff too you get a double entry...just remember to leave another comment stating you are now following Riffraff on Twitter!

Contest will run from Monday November 21st, 2011 - November 24th, 2011. I will pick and announce the winner on BLACK FRIDAY November 25th, 2011

Good Luck and Happy Shopping!

18 Months

2011-11-20T19:57:00.001-06:00

DON'T FORGET TO STOP BY MONDAY MORNING FOR MY

GIVEAWAY POST!

Happy 18 Months Grayson

a little something i love...

2011-11-20T14:49:00.001-06:00

a giveaway

from

local

boutique

Northwest Arkansas

will

you come back

tomorrow {Monday, November 21st, 2011}

to check it out...

you won't want to miss it!

inspiration

2011-11-18T07:55:00.001-06:00

each friday I plan to post my inspiring images I took during the week of Grayson

I am doing this project for 60 days and I am so excited to see what images I capture of Grayson

the images speak and tell the story

day 01-03

happy friday!

week 22 - baby crew

2011-11-17T14:43:00.001-06:00

Happy 22 Week Pregnancy to me and to my sweet baby Crew!

I am so looking forward to March I just want it to get here!

Here is my week 22 plus 5 day update

Documenting Details

2011-11-09T20:05:00.001-06:00

I do get asked a lot how and what programs do I use to edit or make storyboards so I thought that I would share with all!

The storyboards I create I use Adobe Photoshop. It takes some time to get use to making them, but now it is easy! I love them because I make photo books for Grayson as well and I can just transfer those storyboards to the book with all the details I write too! Love it!

You can get templates from this site
CoffeShop Blog

I use both Shutterfly and Mixbook to create our photo books. I like how simply Mixbook is and I feel that I can finish a book through that program quickly.
I am currently working on Grayson's 7-9 month photo book. I am extremely behind, but I am focused to get this all complete before the end of this year!

Anyways I love that I have taken the time to take pictures of Grayson over the past 17 months as well as during my pregnancy and now this pregnancy. It is great to look back at the photo books and see how much Grayson has changed. The book I love the most right now is my frame a day or 365 day project book. It is about 85 pages at the moment but I love how it is turning out!
I look forward to seeing it in print!

week 21 baby crew

2011-11-08T10:40:00.003-06:00

oh my Week 21 with baby Crew!

I also wanted to share this beautiful video my talented sister created for us. I love it and so glad I have these memories documented forever!

just another monday

2011-11-07T10:30:00.001-06:00

UPDATE:
AS OF 1:30PM I HAVE ALL THE MOM'S I NEED FOR THE KID BOOK SWAP~

Happy Monday Friends!

This will be more of a random bullet point post...

~ if you follow me on twitter I posted this image last week

I got a lot of questions on where did I get them etc so I thought that I would share it here too. I got them made at Paper Coterie. They are called Memory Keepers and I have already filled both of the ones pictured above. I also ordered another one last night with wedding pictures on it, that way I can place DVD's, picture CD's, and pictures in them to cherish forever in one spot. I found a coupon online that is VALID until November 13th, 2011. Click here for the details and also go to Paper Coterie to check out the memory keepers. I think that they are great quality and will last years to come.

TIP: if you do separate transactions you can use the code more than once!

I was not asked to promote this site or the product I just wanted to share a product that I have seen first hand and love. They would make great Christmas gifts or Baby gifts too!

~ One day last week I made Chicken and Dumplings in our crock pot and this meal was SO easy and yummy!

Rachel posted it on her blog a few weeks ago and so I thought that I would give it a try. She found the recipe via Pinterest. I am linking you to her post so you can see the recipe and try it out! I added the wide egg noodles and it was so good!

She has a recipe for Sticky Buns that I want to try too!

Thanks Rachel for posting this recipe!

~ This weekend we were very productive with Crew's nursery. We ordered the crib and chest for his room and found a distressed baby blue dresser for his room. I can't wait to get started in his room.

~ I can't end this post without including a few images of Grayson.

first image

Grayson can NOW get on the toilet all by himself. I found him on top of the seat on Friday afternoon. I asked him how he got up there and he showed me. I was shocked that he could get up there all by himself.

second image

Grayson and his new bike from daddy!

~ final thoughts I am doing a KID book swap online and I need 5 mommy's to participate. If you are interested please email me your child's name and your mailing address and I will email you back with the complete details. I am doing it online as I am guaranteed that I will complete it ASAP. So who wants to join...first 5 to email{mlstafford26@yahoo.com}are in!

a fun October 2011

2011-11-04T22:01:00.000-05:00

warning lots of pictures...

I know it is November, but we did have a FUN October and I wanted to make sure that I recap all the fun things we did.

Plus I am going to work on printing my blog posts into a book by the end of this year!

{a big project I am thinking, but I am determined to get it completed by the end of the year}

We went to the pumpkin patch with our good friends the fisher family!

I love this pumpkin patch they have so much for the kids to do and I look forward to taking Grayson and Crew their every year going forward.

at the pumpkin house

sliding down the slide with daddy

favorite thing was the tractor

going for a cow train ride with Kendall

wants to ride the tractor again...

playing with water = fun times as always

playing in the corn sandbox

family photo, this is the best out of all of them. Grayson and I are a bit blurry so that is why it is in black and white

hayride Grayson loved

playing in the hay bales

Next Grayson's cousins came a week later and Grayson had a fun 3 day weekend with them all leading up to Halloween Day!

We painted pumpkins and as you will see by the pictures everyone had a great time!

We all cleaned up and got ready for a evening of fun at Grayson's school fall party

The next day we went back to the same pumpkin patch to share all the fun with Grayson's cousins.

The final full day with my sister's family we went to the Fisher Annual Halloween Party and it was a great time for all!

Amie and Grayson...adorable picture

such a fun little guy! It was so hard to get him to take a picture with his brother Aidan and Grayson.

Amie and her boys!

Love this picture, Drew is a momma's boy 100%!

Family Photo

At the Halloween Party we did a small reveal party.

It was great to share news with all our friends!

And for the final day of October we took Grayson trick or treating around our neighborhood and I think he understood the concept of knocking on the door and getting candy after the first door. Here are a few pictures of our evening together. He also loved handing out candy to all the kids that came to the door.

Sorry again for the long post just trying to catch up...now onto November!

Week 20 baby crew

2011-11-03T08:00:00.000-05:00

If you haven't heard the news we are having a baby boy which we revealed here and his name is going to be Crew Winton which we revealed here...

Now that you are caught up here is my Week 20 update...

Happy Wednesday!

our second baby boy...

2011-11-02T20:22:00.001-05:00

Before Chad and I knew we were having a boy we had names picked out for both a boy and a girl, but when we found out that it was a boy we explored other names. After about a week of discussing names we finally agreed on a name and it is...

we are so excited for March to arrive!

Happy Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T21:26:00.001-05:00

Happy Halloween from our little fish!

We had a FUN filled Halloween Weekend! I am hoping to post more pictures soon of all the fun!

it is....

2011-10-30T18:45:00.000-05:00

Happy 17 Months

2011-10-27T08:00:00.000-05:00

Once again behind...

however I am trying to catch up :)

Anyways these storyboards do take a bit of time, but I do love how they turn out. They may be a bit detailed, but it is more for his photo books and memories.

Happy 17 Months Sweet Grayson

Dancing and Playing Grayson style...

2011-10-26T20:29:00.002-05:00

Our boy is full of character these days...

this is one of my favorite things to do with Grayson sing and dance... I am not a great singer at all and I can't always remember the exact words to the songs, but Grayson loves it and that is all that matters!

Week 19 baby no 2

2011-10-25T21:46:00.001-05:00

It really has been FOREVER since I blogged, but we had a few things happen in our house that kept me away!

1. Grayson got a double ear infection

2. I ended up getting the flu

3. I was on my own with Grayson and just trying to survive most days with not feeling well etc!

I was able to get some pictures this weekend so I could do a quick Week 19 Update. I thought about skipping this week because I am not feeling all that great, but I didn't want to miss a week so here it is...

Now that you have completely read my weekly pregnancy update you are probably going to ask when are you sharing the news with everyone...

I will tell you by next week everyone will know!

Also I have worked on emailing blog comments back tonight so I hope I got back to everyone if not please let me know!

Happy Wednesday!

week 18 baby no 2

2011-10-15T20:36:00.002-05:00

happy Saturday eve!

Just spending the evening catching up on our many recordings on the DVR. Fun times! Really it is because it is relaxing.

Week 18 already...

no picture this week with Grayson he was napping when we took these pictures.

Chad took us to the pumpkin patch so we could complete our front porch fall decor. Here are a few pictures of Grayson today at the pumpkin patch.

finished product... what do you think?

the everyday

2011-10-13T21:20:00.004-05:00

A few months back I did a series on working moms and I loved reading the ins and outs of each guest post. Today I was in the routine of life and thinking WOW I do the same thing each day with Grayson for breakfast and dinner. Usually during the day hours Grayson is at school and has lunch there, but it is so funny to me how each morning and night we do the same thing.

I am sure a lot of you know what I mean...

I can tell you that each morning this is what we do:

I get up for the day usually between 6:30 or 7AM and work until Grayson gets up for the day. Sometimes he is up at 7AM or other days he doesn't get up until 9AM. But when he wakes up I go and get him from his crib we gather up his blanket and pacis. We go to the couch and snuggle while watching cartoons and having milk in a sippy cup. This usually lasts any where from 10-30 minutes. I shock in every moment of the snuggles because I know some day he won't want to snuggle with his mommy. After morning snuggles Grayson is off to go and play in his playroom. I get breakfast ready for Grayson, he eats breakfast, while Grayson is eating breakfast I am busy unloading the dishwasher and getting Grayson's clothes ready for the day. I also pick up the play room and get my workout clothes on. After Grayson eats I end up cleaning the kitchen from breakfast and Grayson runs off and plays. Next I get him dressed and we move into my bedroom where I either get ready myself or I make our bed. After all of this we are out the door and heading to school. We drive the same route, we see the same buildings, and we watch the same movie in the car each morning. It is this daily morning routine that gets us both going in the morning. Grayson now knows when we are leaving and goes to the door and waves bye. This little guy of mine is growing before my eyes. I try to embrace it with a smile and continue to show him and teach him about the world around him.

Our evening routine is similar. We come home following the same route as the morning, we watch for the school buses, and the big kids walking home from school. Grayson enjoys a sippy cup of milk and we listen to Praise Baby music on the way home. We arrive at home and Grayson quickly runs to our room to see Bella. Once the excitement of seeing Bella is over Grayson moves onto his playroom and begins playing. Shortly after arriving home Grayson wants a snack. I give him a small snack and he is off eating and feeding Bella at the same time. I put things away from the day or do laundry. After that I am preparing dinner for Grayson. Dinner is prepared Grayson eats and I am off getting his bath ready and PJ's, diaper, and his evening milk ready...all before Grayson finishes eating. After Grayson is done he quickly runs to the bathroom because he knows that it is bath time. We complete bath time and getting ready for bed. Grayson is off again to play and I quickly clean up the bathroom and kitchen. Some nights I than prepare dinner for Chad and I and other nights I wait to eat after Grayson has gone to bed. The rest of the evening is spent playing and reading books with Grayson. Again embracing each moment with Grayson playing, reading, working on puzzles, or building with his blocks. Learning is all around him and seeing the sparkle in his eyes is priceless. Those are the moments I can't get back.

I write all of this to share that yes it seems as if I do have a routine that seems some what strict or you may think WOW she is a busy girl, but I look at it this way...If I do all of those things when Grayson is doing independent things I can have those moments with him playing etc. Because every chance I get I am on the floor playing with him. I also share this to document my thoughts and share the season of life we are in so I can look back on this day 5 or 10 years from now. HA!

I hope I didn't bore you too much! Maybe my routine and odd things I do during breakfast and dinner time can give you some ideas on what you can do too. Does that make sense? Or you can just call me crazy busy girl!!!

I added the bath pictures because a post without pictures is no fun!

Week 17 baby no 2

2011-10-12T08:00:00.000-05:00

I can't believe I am already at 17 weeks pregnant with baby no 2!

I am thankful for feeling much better and I am not as tired, but I am still going to bed earlier. I need all the sleep I can get because no naps happen in this house during the day. Grayson naps, but I usually am running around catching up on things to rest. I really am not a napper so going to bed early works best for me.

Now onto the highlights for Week 17...

as you can tell by the photos this week Grayson was not into taking a picture with me he just wanted to have the sign and if I gave it to him he would run off. This is the best we could get. It is in the moment and I am fine with not always having the perfect picture.

Have a great day!