tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-39150896289376348342024-03-18T21:39:58.456-07:00understatedest. 2008Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.comBlogger224125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-69680049056787766992014-07-10T15:23:00.000-07:002014-07-10T15:23:06.379-07:00Sewvivor - Understated - Cassie Scott<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Welcome to my Sew-vivor audition! Thank you so much for taking a peek at what I have to offer. I'll introduce myself, then get right to it.<br />
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My name is Cassie Scott. I am a 31 year old mother of two, living in the gorgeous Pacific Northwest. Last summer while pregnant with my second son, I suddenly had this crazy moment where I thought, "I'm going to sew every.last.thing my baby wears!" And I hastily bought a sewing machine off Amazon (not after extensive review shopping, of course). I didn't sew a single thing for that baby the rest of that year. I didn't even break the machine out until January.<br />
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Around September I came across the ever-so-popular plus quilts on Pinterest. Wow! Could quilting be this modern? I couldn't justify the price of purchasing one from some of the fabulous creators I'd come across, so I continued to swoon. Come the New Year, I finally decided to take out the sewing machine and give it a go on my own. I busted out my drawing pad and got to work on a pattern. I noted the finished sizes of the ones I'd been fond of, read up on the basics and got to work. I can't tell you how proud of that first quilt I was. I hurried through it and we've loved it to death. I look at it now compared to what I'm sharing today, and my goodness! It's awful! But that's the process of learning, right?<br />
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I have made countless quilts since January. Crib sized, mini's, a lap size I raffled to raise money for a mission trip. Each one has gotten better, and I've fallen more and more in love with quilting. I was incredibly excited to come across the opportunity of <a href="http://www.familyeverafterblog.com/2014/07/sewvivor-3-quilters-edition-auditions.html" target="_blank">Sew-vivor</a> through <a href="http://www.familyeverafterblog.com/" target="_blank">Family Ever Afte</a>r. Though I'm nervous to put it out there, I feel this would be a wonderful chance to expand my skills and knowlege, and meet some new friends along the way.<br />
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Meet Clementine. She's a gorgeous toddler quilt finishing at 36"x44". Machine pieced, quilted and hand bound. The top is a combination of a white 100% cotton solid and a vintage sheet I collected from an annual vintage market. The backing is a 100% cotton, modern black & white sketch print, and sandwhiched between is a medium weight cotton batting. I then straight line quilted on the diagonal with a veriegated cotton quilting thread in pastels. Finally she is bound off with a black and white stripe. It combines my love of vintage and modern elements in to one gorgeous quilt, perfect for any little girl.<br />
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Thank you again for taking the time to stop by, and good luck to the other contestants!</div>
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<br />Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-19108215373242074302012-09-29T22:47:00.002-07:002012-09-29T22:47:44.757-07:00the best year of my life<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
How did I get here? Every last mother says it. I feel like just yesterday I was right here, in this very moment, where Ryan was so new and tiny. At the same time, I just don't remember him ever being this small before.</div>
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Ryan James 10.01.11</div>
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Ryan James, September 2012</div>
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Child of mine, you are something beyond special. You change so much every day, it's hard to remember exactly how you were just yesterday. It breaks my heart knowing that in just over 24 hours, you will be 1. This whole year has been faster than any other moment in my entire life. You are the best thing that has ever happened to us. We love you.</div>
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Love, C</div>
<br />Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-41409993405599024702012-06-06T04:33:00.001-07:002012-06-06T04:33:11.035-07:00In these momentsHe keeps my hands busy and heart full.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/06/06/576.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/06/06/s_576.jpg' border='0' width='400' height='400' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-6694596318749713092012-01-20T18:20:00.000-08:002012-01-20T18:20:51.574-08:00IKEA Hemnes Night Stand MakeoverI found this on <a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/191403052882994937/" target="_blank">Pinterest</a> and freaked out a little. I liked it so much, I thought I could try my hand at updating my four year old Hemnes night stands from IKEA.<br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This was a $6 makeover. $5 for a tiny can of stain and $1 for the two foam brushes. I could have used stain and foam brushes that I already had, but I'm pretty sure the stain is in the garage is either a. frozen or b. dried out because I didn't put the lid back on it all the way. And the foam brushes? I know I have some, I just figured it was easier to buy them rather than rummaging through the house. The paint I had on hand.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Before:</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/e929cf14.jpg?t=1327110903" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/e929cf14.jpg?t=1327110903" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/dcd218e4.jpg?t=1327110914" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/dcd218e4.jpg?t=1327110914" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>After:</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/8d04fef7.jpg?t=1327110937" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/8d04fef7.jpg?t=1327110937" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/94eb0065.jpg?t=1327110949" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/94eb0065.jpg?t=1327110949" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>And now for staged photos with random props gathered from my house:</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/bb2ccd8c.jpg?t=1327110968" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/bb2ccd8c.jpg?t=1327110968" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/0a7fbe08.jpg?t=1327110973" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/0a7fbe08.jpg?t=1327110973" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Bon Voyage Note Cards - Gift from Ashley</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>White Ceramic Owl - Gift from my mother</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Gray & White Tray - Ikea circa 2010</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>And check me out. Pizazzing up the insides!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/f9bf7b63.jpg?t=1327110981" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/f9bf7b63.jpg?t=1327110981" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/eb34145c.jpg?t=1327110986" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/eb34145c.jpg?t=1327110986" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Wrapping Paper cut to size - IKEA circa 2010</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/70453fb1.jpg?t=1327110998" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/70453fb1.jpg?t=1327110998" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>You were pretty cute before little thing, but you're fitting the beach cottage chic of my bedroom even better now!</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i><br />
</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/bd28f1ef.jpg?t=1327111005" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/bd28f1ef.jpg?t=1327111005" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Stain: Minwax Red Oak</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Paint: Martha Stewart Driftwood</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><i>Both available at Home Depot.</i></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you're thinking of tackling a small project like this, it's easy! You could get away with purchasing a tester bottle of the Martha Stewart paint for around $3, a small can of stain for $5 and a couple foam brushes (one for the paint, one for the stain). I applied two less than perfect coats of paint with a large foam brush and three coats of stain. I wanted a worn, shabby look, so in between coats I sanded a bit with an ultra fine sanding block I had on hand and rubbed a little stain along the edges of the drawer and door. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">And that's that! Hope you enjoyed!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-39146670681173991442012-01-09T05:00:00.000-08:002012-01-09T05:00:07.452-08:00diy: wine bottle lamp<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/516b468b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/516b468b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was never much of a wine drinker before. But now, quite often. Often enough to have a few empty bottles lying around. I've come across the idea on <a href="http://pinterest.com/">Pinterest</a> in the past and thought it might be fun to try.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Yesterday I took down our Christmas tree. I packed up everything and had it all ready to be stored away when I realized I hadn't packed two strings of lights. Instead of opening the boxes back up and packing them away, I started furiously stripping labels from wine bottles.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I fed the lights through the top of the bottle and doctored up the back. There are other ways of doing it for a cleaner look. Battery powered lights in the bottles, drilling holes or cutting the bottoms out, etc. I took the lazy crafter's way, and I'm still happy with it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">If you're interested in more information about wine bottle lamps, here are a few links: <a href="http://drinknectar.com/2011/12/22/12-merry-wine-christmas-decorations/">one</a> & <a href="http://www.ohcrafts.net/decoration-wine-bottle-light.php">two</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-6614359107308053752012-01-06T00:00:00.000-08:002012-01-06T00:00:04.860-08:00dear ashley,<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/6bdbb5c4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/6bdbb5c4.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Here's a peek. Let me know when you get it.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">- C</div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-39128917223854581112012-01-04T11:19:00.001-08:002012-01-04T11:19:40.658-08:00weekend mornings<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/04/1657.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/04/s_1657.jpg' border='0' width='400' height='400' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />It's my first day off after a full week back to work. We slept in until 8:00 & spent time lounging in bed. Now I sit here in the quiet on this blustery island morning, enjoying a hot cup of tea. Love lazy mornings.<br />Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-79219871191878130852012-01-03T15:16:00.001-08:002012-01-03T15:16:09.253-08:00good day sunshine<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/03/2208.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/03/s_2208.jpg' border='0' width='400' height='400' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />Today I woke up to this chubby face. I heard him wiggling around in his cradle before my alarm went off, but that's normal for him. As it sounded, he started to babble. I jumped right up. There he was, big smile on his face. He's never awake that early! I got in some good quality cuddle time before work. He really makes getting out of bed right when the alarm goes off, the easiest thing in the world.<br />Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-1924288129278130392012-01-02T13:22:00.001-08:002012-01-02T13:22:26.624-08:00You say goodbye, I say hello<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/02/2046.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/02/s_2046.jpg' border='0' width='400' height='400' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />2011 was a whirlwind. I've made pretty lofty goals for myself the last two years, none of which I've followed through. This year I have goals I'm hopeful to see through, but they're much more manageable.<br /><br />1. Take care of yourself!<br />We all make health and fitness goals, and really, how often do we actually accomplish them? No goal this time. Just a promise to do things that make us healthier, happier people. Be more active. Eat more vegetables. Eat more meals at home.<br /><br />2. Family is forever!<br />Now that I'm back to work, I miss Ryan like crazy and I sure see Jim less. With 12 hour shifts, I don't get a lot of you're with either of them. It's time to start making it count! Male the best out of the 30 minutes of family time we get on those days and continue to show Ryan how much we love him.<br /><br />3. Money matters!<br />I sure love to shop, no secret there. But this year I want to be more mindful with our money. Less spending and more saving. Instead of buying lots of little things we might not need, save money for the big things we will use for a long time. Meal plan and grocery shop more wisely. Stop buying beauty products I won't use consistently.<br /><br />4. Finish a half marathon!<br />This is the only "lofty" goal I have this year. I want to lose my baby weight so badly, I'd do just about anything to get it. I registered for a half marathon with a fellow mom of mine and I'm going to complete that thing even if she has to drag me across the finish line. I was training for one in 2010 and never showed up on race day. I'm not making a big training plan or a time to finish the race in, I just want to finish.<br /><br />Those are my goals for the year! Hope you'll help keep me accountable and maybe even share your goals with me. Inspire me!<br /><br />-C<br />Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-77043422906311029962012-01-02T12:00:00.001-08:002012-01-02T12:00:56.240-08:00Baby blues<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=12/01/02/1843.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/12/01/02/s_1843.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />There's not a lot, it seems, that Ryan takes from me. Besides the red hair, fair skin and chubby cheeks, I'm not sure you'd know he was mine. He came out looking identical to his daddy<br /><br />While waiting for the ferry a few days ago, I noticed something spectacular! Ryan's eyes are changing color. They started out a pretty dark blue-gray, but now a beautiful golden brown spot has started to grow. Just like mommy! I have hazel eyes with lots of fun golden brown spots and speckles. Needless to say, I'm thrilled.<br /><br />Thanks Ryan, for finding something to share with your mommy!<br /><br />Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-87840464049971334742011-12-29T20:02:00.001-08:002011-12-29T20:02:06.645-08:00todayCurious hands & chubby fingers made me happy.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/12/29/3063.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/12/29/s_3063.jpg' border='0' width='400' height='400' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-68330600216957334542011-12-26T02:48:00.001-08:002011-12-26T07:19:35.444-08:00Our ChristmasAs I lay here in bed listening to Ryan while he sleeps, I can say without a doubt, this was the best Christmas ever.<br />
<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/12/26/339.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/12/26/s_339.jpg' border='0' width='400' height='400' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/12/26/340.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/12/26/s_340.jpg' border='0' width='400' height='400' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/12/26/341.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/12/26/s_341.jpg' border='0' width='400' height='400' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/12/26/344.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/12/26/s_344.jpg' border='0' width='400' height='400' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
<center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/12/26/347.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/12/26/s_347.jpg' border='0' width='400' height='400' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br />
Hoping you and yours had a very special holiday and we wish you the best for the new year.<br />
<br />
-CCassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-47402195205919082052011-12-14T23:58:00.000-08:002011-12-14T23:58:48.017-08:00our first family photosThis last Saturday we had a friend take our first family photos. I was starting to have a lot of regret for not having maternity or newborn photos taken of myself and Ryan. I mentioned it to Jim and he said we could still get photos done while Ryan is still itty bitty. Though he's not his newborn 7lbs, these are still so fabulous.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/390009_2310148913353_1238265307_32009503_364871918_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/390009_2310148913353_1238265307_32009503_364871918_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/380818_2310151473417_1238265307_32009506_1392077908_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/380818_2310151473417_1238265307_32009506_1392077908_n.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/393746_2310153073457_1238265307_32009507_2113345674_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/393746_2310153073457_1238265307_32009507_2113345674_n.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/377813_2310154593495_1238265307_32009509_1917063511_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/377813_2310154593495_1238265307_32009509_1917063511_n.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/380141_2310155033506_1238265307_32009510_899697936_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/380141_2310155033506_1238265307_32009510_899697936_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/387421_2310157513568_1238265307_32009513_547935559_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/387421_2310157513568_1238265307_32009513_547935559_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/387406_2310158153584_1238265307_32009514_1470364321_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/387406_2310158153584_1238265307_32009514_1470364321_n.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/377141_2310158913603_1238265307_32009515_68955607_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/377141_2310158913603_1238265307_32009515_68955607_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/384907_2310160713648_1238265307_32009518_321568287_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/384907_2310160713648_1238265307_32009518_321568287_n.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/374312_2310162313688_1238265307_32009520_78369514_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/374312_2310162313688_1238265307_32009520_78369514_n.jpg" width="266" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/390496_2310161513668_1238265307_32009519_2057431914_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://fbcdn-sphotos-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/390496_2310161513668_1238265307_32009519_2057431914_n.jpg" width="267" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">All photos were taken by Ciera of Pixiedust Photography. She's an incredibly talented photographer with a passion for child and family photography. You can find her work on her blog, <a href="http://pixiedustphoto.blogspot.com/">Pixiedust Photography</a> and her <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Pixiedust-Photography/88577766251">Facebook page</a>.</div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-83857679238615867352011-12-12T15:10:00.000-08:002011-12-12T15:10:00.363-08:00discovering new thingsI've seen a lot of change in Ryan over this last week. He's suddenly becoming so much more aware of the things around him. He has been grasping at his blanket or burp cloth, feeling and inspecting it, and moving them around.<br />
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I had literally given him a toy just last weekend to see if he'd like looking at it. I'm not even sure he realized it was there. After this new discovery, I pulled out a little stuffed elephant that was given to him to see if he'd be interested in it. My goodness, does he like it!<br />
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He loves to hold on to it. Regardless of whether he's actively playing with it, his little hand is grasping an ear or a foot on that little elephant. He'll sit and have a whole baby conversation with it. Cooing, smiling and giggling at it. I find it so fascinating. I was afraid of losing that tiny, cuddly infant, but these new discoveries sure are fun.<br />
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</div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-7501818724976366292011-12-10T19:42:00.000-08:002011-12-10T19:42:05.819-08:00let's get real here: the weight debate<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div>Today I'm just going to vent. Sometimes I feel so much better when I can just write (or type) out my feelings.<div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thehandmadehome.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/I_wish_I_was_skinny1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="221" src="http://www.thehandmadehome.net/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/I_wish_I_was_skinny1.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div>My pregnancy was smooth sailing. I couldn't have been luckier. I casually exercised at the beginning of my pregnancy, but really let it take a back seat because of how tired I was most of the time. By the time I hit the mid point, I was so used to doing nothing that I continued doing nothing.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I've always had a huge self image problem. I was never thin enough regardless of my weight. I'm pretty sure what I saw in the mirror was not how other people saw me. I currently weigh the most I've ever weighed in my entire life (not pregnant). Not a single thing I wore when I found out I was pregnant with Ryan in January fits today. Part of me knows I had a baby just 10 weeks ago - 7 of which I was not cleared for exercise. But the other part of me feels like this has always been my life. Like I've always had Ryan and I should just be thin again already.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I return to work soon and had to go out and buy new clothes, just so that I didn't have to wear too-big maternity clothes back to work. The size on the tags were like a huge blow to the gut. It made me want to cry.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I'm obsessive compulsive about it. I count calories to death, I work out - but there isn't much more I can do beyond that, but sit and think about how much weight I have to lose and how much time it's going to take. It's terrible. It makes me feel terrible. I always knew this was part of pregnancy. I tried so hard to talk myself through it ahead of time to make it all ok. I'm now realizing just how hard of a time I'm actually having with it.</div><div><br />
</div><div>I've been counting calories for a week and a half now, going to the gym or getting on the treadmill at home. I've registered for a half marathon with a friend who had a baby in July and we're working our way in to training for the June race. I have half of my baby weight to lose still, plus the pounds I was up when I got pregnant. It's going to be a long hard road, and I wish it didn't have to be.<i> </i></div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-83261510707746539682011-12-09T06:00:00.000-08:002011-12-09T06:00:16.576-08:00my little winter kidI said I wasn't going to be that mom that bought stupid clothes. I just shouldn't open my mouth sometimes. That's because this reindeer hat is completely awesome.<br />
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</div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-28912685027255602682011-12-08T08:21:00.000-08:002011-12-08T08:21:40.393-08:00life with RyanThese last two months have been a whirlwind. This little boy has grown so incredibly fast.<div><br />
</div><div>In the last two months Ryan has been sick with an eye and ear infection and struggled with weight gain. He's started smiling and cooing. He's had his very first set of vaccinations and only just grew out of his newborn size clothes a week ago. He's happy, healthy and pretty darn agreeable to just about anything I ask him to do.</div><div><br />
</div><div>In just 3 short weeks I return to work full time and I'm going to miss him so much. I chose to work just a handful of days this month with my first day being this last Tuesday. I was away from him for 8 hours, and it seemed like the longest 8 hours ever. The sheer excitement that came from that adorable child when he laid eyes on me after that 8 hours absolutely melted my heart!</div><div><br />
</div><div style="text-align: center;">Here are some photos from Ryan's first month:</div><div><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/7dc7c59b.jpg?t=1317568975" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/7dc7c59b.jpg?t=1317568975" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/7cc06c69.jpg?t=1317568969" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/7cc06c69.jpg?t=1317568969" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ryan & Daddy</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/4be5adaf.jpg?t=1317568963" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/4be5adaf.jpg?t=1317568963" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Auntie Erica</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
<a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/7e2abf16.jpg?t=1317568950" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/7e2abf16.jpg?t=1317568950" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Grandma</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/b9d2cd36.jpg?t=1317568955" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/b9d2cd36.jpg?t=1317568955" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Grandpa</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/12d92db3.jpg?t=1318017439" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/12d92db3.jpg?t=1318017439" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/c864f8cf.jpg?t=1318017446" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/c864f8cf.jpg?t=1318017446" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/961aaf44.jpg?t=1318017466" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/961aaf44.jpg?t=1318017466" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">On the way home!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/0a8d9b43.jpg?t=1318017486" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/0a8d9b43.jpg?t=1318017486" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">First time sleeping at home.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/830d345f.jpg?t=1318017863" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/830d345f.jpg?t=1318017863" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Cuddled up with daddy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/3d574332.jpg?t=1318022951" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/3d574332.jpg?t=1318022951" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/13081d6c.jpg?t=1318022959" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/13081d6c.jpg?t=1318022959" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Daddy loving his little boy.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/9bcc5d41.jpg?t=1322878341" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/9bcc5d41.jpg?t=1322878341" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/8a7e4d13.jpg?t=1322879577" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/8a7e4d13.jpg?t=1322879577" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">So tiny on Grandpa's chest.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/4c7ce2e9.jpg?t=1322881192" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/4c7ce2e9.jpg?t=1322881192" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/76e4a225.jpg?t=1322881202" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/76e4a225.jpg?t=1322881202" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Ryan's first Halloween</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I don't spend a lot of time on the computer anymore, he keeps me pretty darn busy, so I hope to start updating more often soon.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
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</div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-16179787839033045062011-10-08T12:28:00.000-07:002011-10-08T12:28:21.179-07:00Welcome Ryan!<div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: large;">Welcome to the world Ryan James!</span></div><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsRT67yCw2sTyHKnowgZb1tKL6kqr_e0msFgFnPMONwY-tHWA2ZDhjbBH4xZpXHyloBQgc5dFCK4CgMAhjHMBs0QWuAdO6al6Fer2gLavapA3ZHP97lW4K5JQI2-dvHNaVQjPdUU7STQn/s1600/Ryan+James09.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" kca="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtsRT67yCw2sTyHKnowgZb1tKL6kqr_e0msFgFnPMONwY-tHWA2ZDhjbBH4xZpXHyloBQgc5dFCK4CgMAhjHMBs0QWuAdO6al6Fer2gLavapA3ZHP97lW4K5JQI2-dvHNaVQjPdUU7STQn/s320/Ryan+James09.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">October 1st, 2011 - 8:43pm</div><div style="text-align: center;">7lbs 14oz - 19 3/4"</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div style="text-align: left;">Ryan is truly the single greatest joy in our lives. He was welcomed via c section last Saturday evening perfect in every way. Being parents to this beautiful child has been far more rewarding than we could have even imagined. Each day we look at him, we can't believe this is our life. We have been truly blessed over this last year.</div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-78152041536398858322011-09-15T06:02:00.001-07:002011-09-15T06:02:18.878-07:00The things I'll miss the most.<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/09/15/1143.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/09/15/s_1143.jpg' border='0' width='281' height='210' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />The days seem to be passing so much slower. I've felt like my weekends have been extra long. I still don't feel as though I'm in a hurry to meet this little guy, but I think that's because of the things I'll miss the most.<br /><br />21 weeks ago I felt him move for the first time, knowing it was really him. It's been incredible experiencing him grow and the change in his movement over the months.<br /><br />Not that I want to be selfish, but I love having him all to myself. I like "taking him to work" and feeling like all I have to do is poke at him and he wakes up and keeps me company.<br /><br />A soapy belly. As weird as it sounds, I love washing my belly in the shower. It's like it tickles him, and as I swirl the loofah around in circles it's like he's stirring in my belly.<br /> <br />A dang good excuse for a pedicure. Since I can't reach and all!<br /><br />Relaxing. I may not always be comfortable, but I'm a relaxing pro.<br /><br />Preparation and anticipation. I think that's going to be replaced with worry to an extent. Who doesn't worry about their children?<br /><br />In turn there are things I won't miss. Growing out of the biggest maternity clothes I have. Horrid heart burn. Swollen hands and feet. The round puffy face. Having to pee every hour! Hearing how huge I've gotten. The sore back.<br /><br />But all those things have are minimal compared to the entire experience. I love pregnancy and will venture this road again. Just not too soon.<br />Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-9236329541802542302011-09-14T02:11:00.001-07:002011-09-14T02:11:38.801-07:0038 Weeks<br /><br /><center><a href='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/show_photo.php?p=11/09/14/492.jpg'><img src='http://photo.blogpressapp.com/photos/11/09/14/s_492.jpg' border='0' width='210' height='281' style='margin:5px'></a></center><br /><br />I'm 9 days away from my due date as I write this. I don't know where the time has gone over this last year. It's been the best year of my life, with just a few months left that will give even better moments.<br /><br />Coming in to this week of pregnancy was rough. I was exhausted, my blood pressure was high at my last appointment and I'm experiencing major fluid retention. In the prior weeks I'd simply overdone it. I was told to stop pretending I'm not pregnant and to restrict my activities. It's hard, but I'm making it work. No sign of our handsome man as of now, but that's ok. I'm huge and uncomfortable, but he's been asked not to come early (we had a talk!). I'm finishing up last minute nesting and trying to enjoy work as much as I can in these last couple weeks. It's going to be great having a long maternity leave, but I'll miss the job.<br /><br />I don't know what this whole parenting thing will be like, but I'm sure looking forward to the challenge.<br /><br />To my fellow blog friends expecting, I hope you're all well. Kate, I hope the new baby girl is just wonderful. Leah, I'm hoping your little man makes his appearance soon. Care, I'm hoping all is well with you and you're feeling good! December isn't far away for you!<br />Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-15362819883540019922011-09-03T03:57:00.000-07:002011-09-03T03:57:20.927-07:00Weeks 34 - 37I hit 37 weeks yesterday and I have to say, I think I'm done. My little body has expanded to it's limits and I feel like my belly is going to pop every time that baby boy moves around. I still love the movement, and I know I'll miss it, but I'm also getting anxious to shed a little weight and feel lighter and more flexible.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/131da224.jpg?t=1315046721" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/131da224.jpg?t=1315046721" width="240" xaa="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">34 weeks</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/d5fab613.jpg?t=1315046705" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/d5fab613.jpg?t=1315046705" width="240" xaa="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">35 weeks</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/d44a14d4.jpg?t=1315046699" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/d44a14d4.jpg?t=1315046699" width="240" xaa="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">36 weeks</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/14eb63fd.jpg?t=1315046669" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/14eb63fd.jpg?t=1315046669" width="240" xaa="true" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">37 weeks</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left">It truly amazes me how big one's belly can actually get once I put all the pictures together in order. It's too weird. I have started to feel this week like I don't know how I got here. I feel like I literally just found out I was pregnant. Now my little boy is full term and will be just fine making his entrance from here on out. Oh baby boy, please spare mommy and don't get too much bigger! I'm getting tired!</div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left">In other news, we've finally completed the master remodel enough to move in. It's an amazing space! So much larger, it has a bathroom of it's own and the laundry is right there. We still have some finish work to do in the bathroom and a sink to plumb, as well as the last of the trim and beadboard in the laundry. Two more days of work maximum at the rate we're able to work together right now. My husband has been a complete joy to spend time with and he's worked so hard. The guy definitely deserves something special for creating me such a great space! I always mention how I'll share "after" photos when my projects are done (who remembers the kitchen that's never been seen?), but I do fully promise on this one. I'm far too excited not to share.</div><div align="left"><br />
</div><div align="left">Just 20 days until my due date. I'm still working on the last minute stuff like installing the carseat, packing the hospital bag and finishing up the baby laundry. Wish me luck and this whole journey starts coming to a close!</div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-38867933845886267442011-08-23T22:07:00.000-07:002011-08-23T22:07:27.358-07:00The Baby ShowerI was treated to the most beautiful shower I've ever had the pleasure of attending. My mom and her friends are absolutely amazing when it comes to planning. The decor was gorgeous and the food was delicious. I'm lucky enough to have cousins who bake like professionals and they provided the most amazing cake and cupcakes.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/309871_2005727625061_1299755423_31853035_5950255_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" qaa="true" src="http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/309871_2005727625061_1299755423_31853035_5950255_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Myself, my mom and my sister.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The shower theme was nautical. We love living on Whidbey Island, we love the ocean that surrounds us and we love our boat. We are so excited to introduce the northwest island life to our son and nothing fits us better than all things nautical.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/317256_1933370854137_1238265307_31767144_556719_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="http://a8.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/317256_1933370854137_1238265307_31767144_556719_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The afghan on the left with the anchor was hand made by my cousin, Rachel. She did an amazing job. The quilt on the left was made by our close friend and neighbor, Uschi. The quilt was one of my very first gifts for the baby. I completely skipped a bedding set because of this quilt. The rocking horse is from my friend, Alison. She stained it to match his bedroom.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/311036_1933371454152_1238265307_31767148_4742781_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/311036_1933371454152_1238265307_31767148_4742781_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Poms, eyelet lanterns and stars hung above the food table. They've all come home with me to hang in his bedroom. The giant frame was held chicken wire - I took photos early so you don't get to see all the adorable photos that were attached of his ultrasounds, my weekly belly photos and a few of me as a child.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/299861_1933372134169_1238265307_31767149_7515413_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/299861_1933372134169_1238265307_31767149_7515413_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/306161_1933372614181_1238265307_31767152_8281757_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="http://a4.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/306161_1933372614181_1238265307_31767152_8281757_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The shower was at 11:00am, so we had a brunch spread. It was delicious. Mini crustless quiches, strawberry spinach salad with the most amazing dressing I've ever tasted and fresh bakery bread.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/297651_1933372974190_1238265307_31767154_4228177_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/297651_1933372974190_1238265307_31767154_4228177_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/300436_1933373454202_1238265307_31767156_7333635_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/300436_1933373454202_1238265307_31767156_7333635_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">There was a great sparkling fruit punch along with lemon water. We drank from mason jars and each little straw had the cutest little striped red and blue flags on them.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/318586_1933374294223_1238265307_31767158_1236737_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/318586_1933374294223_1238265307_31767158_1236737_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The cupcakes were made my the Cupcake Queen herself, my cousin Rachel. She knows how much I love fondant and she made marshmallow fondant star toppers for each cupcake. I'm also a frosting girl, and she totally outdid herself on the frosting for these cupcakes. I was in heaven.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/306942_1933520377875_1238265307_31767445_621928_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/306942_1933520377875_1238265307_31767445_621928_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">My cousin, Brynn made the blue velvet ruffle cake. I'd come across a picture of one on Pinterest and had to have it. This is the absolute best velvet cake I've <em>ever</em> eaten in my life. The frosting was cream cheese and sadly didn't like the sun. But I don't care, it was delicious! My sister came across this adorable whale topper and my brother colored it for her. It was pretty sweet of him!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/228923_1933521737909_1238265307_31767446_7739137_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc6/228923_1933521737909_1238265307_31767446_7739137_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/312181_1933375214246_1238265307_31767160_1127991_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" qaa="true" src="http://a5.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/312181_1933375214246_1238265307_31767160_1127991_n.jpg" width="238" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The blessing table was incredible. Each guest wrote a sweet note to our baby boy and hung it on the line. At the end of the shower they were collected in a small album for me to take home. I'll get to read each blessing and prayer to him as he grows.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/315516_1933375654257_1238265307_31767162_2581839_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/s720x720/315516_1933375654257_1238265307_31767162_2581839_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Pinwheels made the center pieces on each table and were the favors for our guests to take home. My mom let me help with these, which I loved. I'm a crafty person so I was happy I got to help with something!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/309191_1933376334274_1238265307_31767164_3552713_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" qaa="true" src="http://a6.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/309191_1933376334274_1238265307_31767164_3552713_n.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">The little guy was spoiled rotten!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/305786_1933379854362_1238265307_31767176_7840607_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" qaa="true" src="http://a1.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s720x720/305786_1933379854362_1238265307_31767176_7840607_n.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">Carrie, Jennifer, Mom & Lisa</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">These are the ladies that made it happen. Carrie hosted in her gorgeous back yard, making for one heck of a garden party. They all helped my mom collect and implement ideas. They set up and took down the entire thing and also helped prepare the food. They're amazing and my mom is so lucky to have the best friends.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">There are more pictures floating around on other cameras. When I end up with those I'll post more of the fun. A big thank you to everyone who made the shower so incredible special. I felt beyond blessed. From those who helped plan and put on, to those friends and family members that attended. It was an amazing day I'll never forget.</div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-88830190746559071342011-08-11T06:27:00.000-07:002011-08-11T06:27:00.614-07:00A project! Baby Boy's CradleI am so excited to be sharing this before and after. I couldn't be bothered to take any better pictures, but they still show just how beautiful this piece of furniture is.<br />
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I was searching Craigslist several months ago for a dresser for the baby's room. I had no luck with a dresser, but I did find this great cradle! I sent a picture of it to my husband who immediately replied that we must have it. The next day I picked it up from a darling military family in town. Her very last little boy had outgrown it and she was (not so ready) to part with it.<br />
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We wrangled it in to the back of my sister's Volkswagon Beetle (boy was that a task!) and went on our merry way. We made a pit stop at the grocery store on the way home, and while inside a woman spied the cradle in the back seat of the car. She was in the process of leaving us a note about it when we came out. Her daughter-in-law was due in September and she wanted to know if we were selling it. Nope! Sorry! She was bummed, but wished me well.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/ba907c59.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" naa="true" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/ba907c59.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">It's an old piece that had obviously been modified and that was just fine. I'd take it apart to paint it and put it back together ensuring it's stability. It also came with a brand new mattress, off white sheet and set of bumpers (only 3 months used). I'd started pulling it apart to prep it and realized I should probably take a before picture.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/d850bb78.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" naa="true" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/d850bb78.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/183cf900.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" naa="true" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/183cf900.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/504271e8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" naa="true" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/504271e8.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I absolutely love the way it turned out. It took some sanding and wiping down to prep it. Then it took a tedious 4 coats of paint with a foam brush. I actually chose to pick up a quart of Martha Stewart's Wrought Iron (the lighting doesn't really do the color justice) rather than using spray paint. Baby boy's color is a dark muted navy blue. There just weren't a lot of options in spray paint matching what I really wanted for this piece and it would have been far more expensive for the amount of cans I needed. I didn't even use 1/4 of my quart of paint and now I have more left over for other projects for his room. I did pick up a can of spray paint matching the hooks the cradle hangs from for the rest of the hardware.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">This picture doesn't show the completed project. The eye bolts currently on the cradle are old and rusted. We weren't able to find the same size at the hardware store so we attempted to spray them to match the hooks. Problem was, we can't tighten the bolts at the bottom any farther up. This means the stop on the cradle (the function is there, but we have to create a new stop) won't work. Can't have the baby unsecured while sleeping and unattended. We've picked up some marine rope that we'll be replacing the eye hooks with, keeping with my nautical feel. We can then adjust the height to ensure the stop works properly.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The stop is a small dowel that I painted the same color as the hardware. We picked up a small crystal knob to attach to the end of the dowel to place and remove the stop. It will be attached to the frame with a piece of marine rope so that it doesn't get lost. If I don't attach it, I'll lose it for sure. That's just how I am! I am overall pleased with the quality of this old piece and the stability after modifying it. I can't wait to have baby boy sleeping in it!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Total project cost:</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Cradle: $40</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Paint: $13</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">2 foam brushes: $1</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Spray paint: $8</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Dowel: $1</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Decorative knob: $4</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Rope: $5</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Total: $72!</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Still less than half the price of a brand new cradle and the bedding was included! I love to restore old peices and I know that as we use this for our son and future children, that mommy and daddy made it just for them. Love that!</div><br />
The cradle will be decorated with a custom pillow that I plan to make, along with two very adorable blankets I've crocheted for my little man. It will all be ready for his arrival so I'll have pictures posted of it in it's final resting place before he gets here!Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-44003905894994554842011-08-09T06:26:00.000-07:002011-08-09T06:26:29.224-07:00Weeks 29 - 33Life is good here! Time flies by at the speed of light and sometimes I find myself overwhelemed at the things I feel need to be done around here. Time, please slow down just a little!<br />
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My pregnancy is still progressing beautifully. I'm down to the last 7 weeks before my due date and I'm starting to finally understand what uncomfortable is. I was just asked last night if I "turtle" out of bed. I gave a quizical look and realized exactly what they were talking about - yes, I get stuck on my back when trying to roll from one side to the other or trying to sit myself up out of bed - turtling is a great description of that!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/d1d43009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" naa="true" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/d1d43009.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>29 Weeks</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/67b9e86d.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" naa="true" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/67b9e86d.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/04cf282e.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" naa="true" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/04cf282e.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>30 weeks</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/626098c1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" naa="true" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/626098c1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>31 weeks</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/f01dc8a1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" naa="true" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/f01dc8a1.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/041a35ab.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" naa="true" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/041a35ab.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>32 weeks</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/5cb3cd0c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" naa="true" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/5cb3cd0c.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>33 weeks</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/dbd99e82.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" naa="true" src="http://i35.photobucket.com/albums/d191/brodie7/dbd99e82.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><em>(I love the roundness of my belly from the front!)</em></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Baby boy moves <em>constantly. </em>It's the one thing I will miss the most about pregnancy after he's born. It's so nice having him with me all the time. Getting to "take" him to work with me, rubbing my belly to wake him and "spend" time with him. I love all of that. My husband and I were discussing the other day how we know we will be so tired and sleep deprived, but we've just waited for him for so long, that we kind of feel like that won't matter. We'll just want to spend every waking moment we can with him.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I'm now attending appointments every 2 weeks. We're getting down to the wire. As of right now we have 6 weeks and 3 days until my due date. Friends and coworkers are starting to place their bets on when the little man will make his appearance. At my last appointment a week ago his estimated weight from measurements was 4lbs 3oz. He looked incredible. I'm so blessed this pregnancy has been problem and complication free and that my boy continues to grow as healthy as possible.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">My baby shower is on August 20th and I'm very exicted to get together with family and friends to celebrate my son. I can't wait! </div><div align="left"></div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3915089628937634834.post-52062189481417012242011-07-05T07:00:00.000-07:002011-07-05T07:00:14.301-07:00Nursery Inspiration<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">I was asked to share pictures of little man's nursery. I'm so sad to say that we won't be finishing his nursery until after he arrives. We are currently working opposite schedules and it's hard to get everything finished around here that needs to be done prior to his arrival. Since he'll be rooming in with us for a the first few months we decided we'd put off any serious nursery work until my maternity leave.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">But all of that doesn't mean I haven' started buying things. I have a great collection of baby stuff going thus far. So I figured I'd let you all in on the things that will be going in to his room when it's time.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.toddlerstravels.com/product-pages/images/jenny-lind-crib2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" i$="true" src="http://www.toddlerstravels.com/product-pages/images/jenny-lind-crib2.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The white Jenny Lind crib. This was the same style crib both my sister and brother had as babies. I remember it being the most beautiful piece of furniture ever. I even had a twin Jenny Lind in my room in middle school. I loved that bed. I knew it's exactly what I wanted for my own baby one day. It was the very first baby something I bought after we found out we were expecting. I searched and searched Craigslist and found the most perfect deal. Brand new, bought only 4 months prior and never used. She sold it to me for a whopping $80 including a Pottery Barn mattress. Amazing.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/45579086_bBAo5uuc_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" i$="true" src="http://d30opm7hsgivgh.cloudfront.net/upload/45579086_bBAo5uuc_c.jpg" width="240" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">{<a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/45579086/">via</a>}</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The Expedit shelving unit. I got my way immediately with the crib. However, my husband has not been so agreeable to everything else. We finally agreed on utilizing the Expedit unit like in the photo above. Dresser, shelving, changing table in one. Done deal.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://i.walmartimages.com/i/p/00/02/99/86/33/0002998633191_300X300.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" i$="true" src="http://i.walmartimages.com/i/p/00/02/99/86/33/0002998633191_300X300.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">The <a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/Dorel-Monaco-Bentwood-Rocking-Chair-Espresso-and-Beige/11081242">Dorel Monaco Bentwood Rocker</a>. It took a long time for us to agree on a rocker. He wanted a glider, I wanted a rocker. He wanted a regular glider, I wanted a vintage rocker. After lots of searching I finally came across this piece. It had great reviews, a mix between old and new, and it was the right price! My mother-in-law so kindly gifted this piece to us for baby's room. <em>Thank you so much Mom!</em></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">His room will be lots of navy blue, whites and grays. We knew navy blue was our color well before I was even pregnant. I'm not color biased. If I'd been having a girl, it still would have been blue. His room will carry a a light theme of classic nautical. Old maps and ships will be added in to the decor. Along with his giraffe collection. Mommy's favorite animal has been the giraffe since she was little and she was nice enough to make sure he has plenty of stuffed giraffes to cuddle.</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br />
</div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Like I mentioned before, until his room is completed he will room in with us. He has a faboulous vintage cradle I'm in the process of finishing up - it needs to be painted and reworked for safety - that will be downstairs with us, along with his dresser and rocker. We'll move it all upstairs when we're ready to set him out on his own :) Getting closer every day and I couldn't be more excited!</div>Cassiehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16119699303274909243noreply@blogger.com1