Family Pictures

A few weeks ago, my family got together to take our annual family photos! Of course, like always, Jason and my dad hated every second of it! But, thanks to Nick Narducci (http://www.nicholasmatthewphoto.com/newblog/), they turned out great! We took them at Tempe Town Lake, and when we first got there, we realized it was the same weekend as a big triathlon. Lucky for us, Nick found some great spots to take pictures. I know I posted a lot of them, but I liked so many, I couldn't decide which ones to show! Thanks again Nick, and thanks Becca for the referral!

It's Official

So, it's official...her name will be Carlyn Faye Newman! I am so excited to get to call her by name now. We went to the doctor a couple of days ago, and she said everything looks great. I am measuring perfect for 24 weeks, and the heartbeat is nice and strong. Carlyn is growing and growing, and we are getting more and more excited...and stressed!

We are starting to work on her nursery. Jason and I picked the bedding out together, although he was extremely picky and said that this was the ONLY one he liked. We are thinking about painting the room a tan color on three walls, and pink on the other. Then, Jason's idea again, painting dark brown paw prints on the wall! I think it will be very cute! We are going to get the bedding, the lamp, and the hamper, we are debating on the mobile. What do all you mom's out there think?!

I am feeling great these days with the exceptions of a few uncomfortable pregnancy pains. But, I can't complain too much. After working today, with an extremely sick infant who was born at 25 weeks, as old as Carlyn is now, it brings into perspective that the uncomfortable pains I am feeling are nothing. I can't imagine how it feels to see your one and a half pound baby lying there sick and in pain. It is unbearable to even think about, and my thoughts and prayers are with that family.

We are also starting to look at all of the different items we will soon need (sooner than we think)! I have been looking at strollers and travel systems. I have heard that the Chicco travel system and the Gracco systems are good too. I'm not sure where we are going to get our furniture at yet, but I've been looking around. I think I want the convertabile crib, so she will be able to use it for a while. I think I want the swing that swings both ways. It is a bit overwhelming shopping. There are so many different brands and items out there, I don't know which ones are better!!! Ahhh! So, moms out there, give me your advice. Which items do you love and would you not buy if you could go back?!

12 Days of Junkie

Thanks Jessica for getting me hooked on blog giveaways! I love them now. I have yet to win, but I have heard great stories from those who have, and have gotten great idea for myself and presents for others! Check out this site. It showcases moms! Tip Junkie is great! Here's the link. http://tipjunkie.blogspot.com/ Enjoy!

Good Read!

With all the political stuff that's going on today, I wanted to post something different! I saw this on the internet, and I loved it! Those of you with kids, let me know what you think, and tell me if there's something that changed when you had a baby!

Things That Change When You Have a Baby

*Where you once believed you were fearless, you now find yourself afraid.

*The sacrifices you thought you made to have a child no longer seem like sacrifices.

*You respect your body... finally.

*You respect your parents and love them in a whole new way.

*You find that your baby's pain feels much worse than your own.

*You believe once again in the things you believed in as a child.

*Your heart breaks much more easily.

*Every day is a surprise.

*Bodily functions are no longer repulsive. In fact, they please you, (Hooray for poop!)

*Your love becomes limitless, a superhuman power.

*You finally realize that true joy doesn't come from material wealth.

*You now know where the sun comes from.

*You don't mind going to bed at 9 p.m. on Friday night.

*You realize that the 15 pounds you can't seem to get rid of are totally worth having.

*You discover an inner strength you never thought you had.

*You no longer rely on a clock — your baby now sets your schedule.

*You take the time for one more hug and kiss even if it means you'll be late.

*You learn that taking a shower is a luxury.

*You find yourself wanting to make this world a better place.

*If you didn’t believe in love at first sight before, now you do!