Christmas Wrap Up

~Christmas Eve~
I wasn't so sure about Christmas this year and how my usual cheerful spirit would weather the storm of R being deployed, but it turned out! We celebrated our Christmas on Christmas Eve because of the time difference in Afghanistan and when R could meet us over Skype. Which turned out awesome! We actually got to spend 3 hours with him just watching SugarCube babble as she opened gifts, and naturally do what most kids, this age, do. Ignore the toy and play with the the box, ha! But she had a ball with all her adoring fans cooing and ooing over her ANY interaction. I swear. She lifted a finger and we all went "AWWWE!" It was great. My favorite and most cherished moment though, was when SugarCube connected with the fact that her daddy was inside the computer.

 Half way into opening gifts, she started babbling and caressing his face for a GOOD 10 minutes while trying to find "daddy" behind the computer screen. She'd push the laptop down to see behind it and was throughly confused when daddy wasn't there, lol.  It was the sweetest display of affection we've seen yet and totally made my Christmas Eve morning! We sealed our amazing day with the traditional pot of chili and corn bread, dressed in our jammies and watched movies until it was time to say goodnight. 

~Christmas day~

After such an amazing time with R, the next day was Christmas. I dressed SugarCube in her sunday best and of course took many pictures of her lil' puddin'face. You know I have to document this year in true mommy fashion with a bajillion photos ;)  And I also just HAD to capture these zebra print shoes on film, no? Aren't they the CUTEST! And that rocking horse--- ADORB! 

Unlike true mommy fashion, I'll go ahead and tell on myself and say that I was a bad mommy this year. I didn't go all out with baking cookies for Santa, buying elf on a shelf or even taking Alyssa to see Santa her first Christmas. I just feel like a lot of that's wasted on such early years. But I am rethinking Alyssa's absent Santa pictures, after the fact...I didn't want to deal with the large lines at the mall, only to pay for a picture where my daughter is frightened out of her skull and screaming her head off, but now I'm thinking she might feel jilted later on... The awful baby screaming on Santa's lap pics are kinda tradition in most homes....  

~Baby Loot~

After opening our gifts on Christmas eve (SugarCube and Mommy was spoiled)  Christmas morning we played with them! Well, not in these pics but you get the idea. 

Baby girl got some pretty sweet books including one of her favorites, Mickey Mouse! It came with a Mickey shaped radio and 20 different songs to sing along with. That's been a hit since day one! Your first radio, awe... Daddy insisted you needed blocks for when he returned, so he bought you a heaping amount of tender years blocks which are super soft and actually float so you can take them into the bath! You also got a few puzzles, a neat twisty ball that rattles and rolls and your super intrigued by the elephant shape sorter that was in the gift pile. Your Mickey Mouse phone was a big hit too, as well as your plush Mickey. Can you tell you're into Mickey this year ;) Mommy thinks your first birthday might have something to do with that silly little Mouse...  

My favorite toy from your stash, is by far, the handmade wooden rocking horse Grampa "G" made, however you're still making friends with it and not quite sure what's expected. We're working on that. Maybe once mommy paints the face, stirrups and saddle you'll connect with it more but if you could talk, I know you'd say your favorite toy was DEFINITELY the one your Great Grampa brought over. A Minnie Mouse bean bag!!! By Christmas evening, you had me launching your cute baby buns over it while you squealed with delight. It was so cute and has made me giggle until my sides hurt :)

~Mommy Loot~

I didn't get any pictures of my Christmas stash but it was good! I got a nice pair of VS pajamas,  my 13" MacBook Pro (YEAH YEAH) a BEAUTIFUL jewelry box, a Diamond Back climbing harness, carabiner and GriGri belay device (climbing shoes and chalk bag to come) a boat load of good thick running socks and cozy socks, a stocking full of goodies, a $50 visa card and an SLR Nikon D3100 camera!!! Holy moly that sounds like a lot when I write it all down. I couldn't be more excited for my new toys!!! I've already used the climbing gear twice since Christmas! This is one of the BEAUTIFUL spots we climbed. 

I wasn't able to get any pics of me on the rock but it wouldn't have been that impressive anyway seeing as I bailed 1/4 the way up each time, lol! Lets just say I've got a lot of improving to do (outside) but super excited to put in the work! 

  

I'm still in love with my shiny laptop which allows me to throughly enjoying the blogging experience and now I have this awesome new camera to correlate! It couldn't have come at a better time because I have some fabulous aquarium, zoo and first birthday bash events planned, which will be in need of good pictures! 

~And what before my eyes did appear... But a slobbery baby with tiny reindeer ears~

Christmas Jammie Cuteness! 

Can you tell I just loved SugarCube in her Christmas jammies ;) The second to last one here just cracks me up. She was actually laughing.

We wrapped up Christmas evening, relaxing over peace and quiet and a simple meal of ham, scalloped potatoes, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce and dinner rolls. I have to thank my mother in-law for that because I was so pooped by the end, I wasn't ANY help in the kitchen. Thanks again Mama "G!" I don't think I could've asked for a better Christmas, with the hubby being deployed but here's to a repeat next year, only with daddy sitting NEXT to us! And for the record, that's all the gift I'll need ♥

~What was your one exciting gift this Christmas?~

I Was A Good Girl, And Santa Noticed!

Merry Christmas to all my friends!!!  Today was very blessed in the way that we got to spend THREE hours with my hubby over Skype; opening gifts (Santa came early) sharing smiles and laughter and of course watching our daughter experience the joy of Christmas for the very first time! We celebrated a day early because of the time difference and also not wanting anything to get in the way of meeting R for this exchange, if it could be helped. And seriously.  I couldn't have asked for a better day; considering my love is completely on the other side of the world and yet, it felt like he was sitting right there in the living room with us...  I shall return with a proper Christmas recap, because OMG I got spoiled! I must have been really good this year because Santa definitely delivered. But the festivities are not over! The best part is still to come---Tomorrow is still the big feast where we shall gorge on roast beast! Haha, I've been reading How the Grinch Stole Christmas maybe a little too much this month ;) I also need better pictures before I post a recap. I COMPLETELY failed to wash and fix my hair and dress in anything other then yoga pants today, so having an opportunity for a redo is welcomed!   Until then---From my home to yours,  I wish you all a very Merry Christmas full of warm smiles and laughter! Have a wonderful time making beautiful moments with the ones you hold dear, and remember to take time out of the hustle and bustle to really look and appreciate the blessings you've been given. I for one, feel so blessed and thankful for my husband, our beautiful baby girl and a wonderful 3 hours spent in the eyes of my love, on this special day, where the distance didn't seem so distant...  Go forth and be MERRY!!!!   

30 weeks + 3 days

Check out the bowling ball this week! 30 weeks and 3 days today--

She gets bigger everyday it seems! Baby "G" had her Grammy, Grampa and Auntie S (R's family) in for Christmas and even they couldn't believe how much the belly grew while visiting!!

Speaking of Christmas, Baby and doting visiting family, you were MAJORLY spoiled this holiday baby "G." Take a look at all your goodies!

I'm in LOVE with this very cushy Chicco car seat. It shows red here but it's really a deep awesome orange. Best part--it's good for either a boy or girl! Look at me, we haven't even welcomed you home baby girl and mommy's already thinking ahead to a bother or sister for you! :)

Okay, this super light compact stroller, a chicco keyfit caddy, was not part of the plan. Our plan was a running stroller but thanks to Josh, a Babies' R ' Us employee, we were convinced otherwise and was given a new plan! For six months anyway-- I love it!

So here's the whole thing put together! It's the cutest, smallest most maneuverable travel system I've ever seen! This new mom had some anxiety about hauling a HUGE stroller and car seat around, through public markets. But no more! I feel like I'm six again; pushing my little baby doll carriage around. LOL.

Baby "G" will be sleeping in mommy and daddy's room until we get a bigger house. Sometime in late April or early May. I just love how this Greco pack'n'play fits PERFECTLY in the corner of our room with all its warm colors and attachments. The cozy sleeper is my favorite piece because it can be removed and used as a traveling bassinet. SCORE!

And this is Baby Patagonia! Thanks to your Auntie S you'll be rocking these gorgeous colors come summer! I love how cheery this outfit is ♥

SO EXCITED ABOUT THIS GEM!!! I am now a proud owner of Photoshop Elements and Photoshop Premiere!!! Grammy and Grampa made no bones that this was a full on bribe. The return will be loads of baby pictures and videos. Umm, no problem!!! :)

Here I saved the two best things for last...These are handmade baby rattles Sugar Cube! Your Grampa "G" made them and they are just so beautiful. I know you are going to love them and cherish them just like I do!!

And this is a super cuddly handmade blanket done by Grammy "G!" This will definitely be your tummy time blanket Baby girl:)

You got SO MANY more things but these are some of my favorites. See, you're already so spoiled/loved!

Just a few more hours before the new year so I'm going to close and enjoy the rest of 2011 with the hubby. HAPPY NEW YEAR bloggy buddies, Facebook friends and anyone else reading this ol'blog. I wish us all a fabulous 2012! I promise a better baby update at 31 weeks:)

The big 3

28 weeks today and LOVING month seven!


This picture is too hilarious not to share. Baby girl kicked me pretty hard and it showed, haha!


We sailed into our 3rd trimester (the big 3) on week 26 and, so far, it rocks! I love it! I'm back to feeling emotionally normal which is a HUGE improvement in my world. That's pretty much why it rocks! I still have energy to get things done, which mega rocks, and I've gotten major ego boosts about the size of my belly TWICE this week. Even my husband is contributing by saying sweet things like,

"baby, I'm really impressed at how well you're carrying her. I've seen women as far along as you and they're twice as big." Love that man:)

Other then the few weird weeks 18-22, I still don't have any back pain and I couldn't really tell you what a Braxton Hicks feels like. Still no stretch marks (PLEASE STAY THAT WAY) and only minor swelling. Even I'm surprised at how lucky I've been with these things. Maybe I paid my dues in emotional instability? LOL.

Things I HAVE noticed: I'm moving much slower these days and I tire out quicker. I still have energy but after a day of cleaning and being on my feet mostly, I'm down for the count the next day. My hips are really tender by nightfall, I'm sleeping a lot less and breathing is getting harder. The past few days I've been dealing with dizziness and feeling faint but I drink over a gallon of water a day. However, my doctor will probably just tell me "drink more water" when I ask him about it...

Sugar cube is doing well, from what I can tell. I've been looking forward to week 28 for sometime because that means Baby "G" has a 90% chance of survival if we had her early. That knowledge did wonders for my peace of mind--- once we made it!

She did give me a scare yesterday after noticing I hadn't felt her move within a 24 hour period. She didn't wake me up yesterday morning like normal either. I immediately started to worry about my dinner choice the night before--- feta and spinach stuffed chicken. I know you're not supposed to eat feta while pregnant but I also hear as long as it's pasteurized, it's fine. I ran out to the trash can in the garage and started tearing at the bag like a mad women, trying to locate the empty cheese package. I could have SWORN it said "pasteurized" but wanted to be sure. Yup, it said pasteurized. I started eating fruit, drinking juice, shaking my belly. Nothing. I started to really worry then. Finally I ate something that I know she loves---A lemon. That did the trick! She's been kicking and punching me ever since:)

We finally got our house decorated for Christmas this weekend so I leave you with these!
My mother in-law gave R and I those moose our first Christmas and I just love them!

Stockings hung by the fire with care!

The cutest little bird you've ever seen-- This is my favorite:)


A picture of our tree will have to wait. It's currently leaning very heavily and looking very pathetic. But the hubby promises to fix it after he comes in from the woods today:)

I hope everyone is enjoying their own little slice of Christmas cheer!

How Facebook Says I Spent My Year!

Forgive me followers, for I have sinned. It has been 3 months since my last blog! Not only that but it is New Years Eve! Are we really a clock spin away from 2011!?!? The other day I was doing my normal thing on Facebook and I stumbled onto an application where Facebook sums up your entire year in status posts---It was actually very enlightening for me. My sister made a good point. That it gives you insight into the type of a person you are by showing you what you focused on and what your all around attitude was during 2010? So here is my year in a nut shell, says Facebook...

Feeling lazy today but I should and need to be productive! The way I'm
feeling, I'll be lucky to get showered??? Argh, Hate these days!~I am totally
wasting this day off and I hate it!!! But can't seem to get motivated to do
anything...Grocery shopping and cleaning the house would be a good start...Would
someone like to lend me a kick in the hiney?~Going for my first run in a good
while this evening!!! Wish me luck...I', cringing already about how much I'm
going to suck from where I was...Ekk!~really wish I had a good mountain to hike
today...Instead, I'm off to work where there are no windows to let the gorgeous
day shine in! Maybe a good thing I can't be out in it!?!?~Mountain biking at
Flatrock! Looks like rain!? Ain't skeered of a little mud;)~"Hi, my name is
Rebekah G******* and I am a flip-flop-aholic"~Definitely need run tonight after
this day is over! Stress is the pits!~Going stir crazy!~I love when I can have a
surprise!!! Waiting on the hubby to get home so I can be like a kid and watch him
open it!!! I might even help him tear the wrapping:p So, I've been talking into
a half marathon in March, ekk! Okay it didn't take too much prodding:p I've been
wanting to do this for sometime! Anyone wanna join!?!~Oh my goodness, thank you
all for ALL the birthday wishes!!! Rob took me out for hibachi and sushi and
bought me a gorgeous dish set that I have been wanting for a year!!! Still not
sure how he did it because it required a membership to Costco, which we do not
have...At any rate, my creamy chicken tacos looked amazing on them tonight! My
sis Mary also bought me gorgeous peal earrings!!! Great day:)~Sun dried tomatoes
in a grilled chicken salad, wow!

I really liked this summery of my year. I think it really shows what an active and motivated individual I am and that I love being outdoors! It also shows my random goofy side but that I also have days where I could use a jump start even. I noticed I used exclamation points quite a lot but even that rings truth about the type of person I am; excitable and loving life...Most days:)

Here are some pictures and comments about 2010 that Facebook didn't share, however, that I would like to---

In spring of 2010 I went white water rafting with R for the first time and fell in love!

That same trip I enjoyed a cozy cabin adventure with R in the foot hills of the great smokey mountains

In 2010 we moved from our cozy 1 bedroom apartment into a house with a yard for Bella!

Shortly after, we adopted this cutie pie...R says shes 3/4 German Shepard and Pit bull and 1/4 tard hound, but we love her!

2010 brought a nice promotion to STORE MANAGER back in September! This picture
really has no relation other then the fact that I am always on my phone now;)

I ran my first 5k in Phoenix, AZ! The race for the cure was such an awe inspiring experience and one that I was so proud to be apart of! Jordan Sparks mother even opened with a speech before the race which I thought was very nice...

Right after the race! I met my goals of not stopping and not being the last to finish so I was feeling pretty happy at this moment...

I visited my first winery in the foothills of Sedona, AZ!

Sedona, AZ...I loved all the red clay!

I saw the bright lights of Vegas!

I ate the biggest most amazing soft pretzel under the canopy's of Ceasers Palace


R and I had so much fun in Vegas and definitely had our drinking goggles on!

We celebrated one of the most beautiful Christmas I can remember! It even snowed making the day so magical...

And R spoiled me rotten with these!!!

And this!!!! Oh yes, some of you might remember that I have been asking for a Garmin since I started this whole running journey! R made my entire year with this gift...I am taking it out for a spin this afternoon in fact!

And finally, R and I celebrated our 2 year anniversary on December 27th, a few days after such a wonderful Christmas...It was such a beautiful year babe and I wouldn't have wanted to spend it with anyone else. Here is to 2011 and another spectacular year!!!