Three Peas in a Pod

My Morgan

2010-09-12T20:39:00.006-05:00

Our resident smartypants. She is growing so fast! Now 4 1/2, she is a force to be reckoned with. Full of love and ever-affectionate. Loves to give hugs, especially to her little brother. Loves to ask questions about anything and everything. Loves to negotiate. Loves to be praised. Loves Little Petshop, Spongebob, coloring and collecting purses. I am ever proud of her and the little lady she is becoming.

Oh right! That vacation.

2010-09-12T18:45:00.005-05:00

We packed up the car for a week on South Padre Island last month. My parents and sister's family joined us and we all had a very nice (and needed) vacation. I can't say vacationing with a 17-mo-old is too relaxing at times, but the big kids behaved, and we all had some much-needed family time. And the scenery was beautiful. And the sun was hot.

Here we go with some highlights.

3 of 4 peas on the beach.

My sis and her hubby, out with Mark & I for dinner by the water.

Happy guys after their morning of fishing.

Little smiley.

Grandparents and kiddos.

Finally, a delicious frosty beverage in front of me.

Ryan's first time at the beach.

Grandpa and Ryan enjoying the view.

Mark gave my parents a grant tour of the valley and we stopped off at the Iwo Jima memorial/WWII museum in Harlingen.

Searching for shells.

Cousins taking break from the pool which was conveniently right out the back door of our condo. The kids spent hours and hours in the water and Morgan even got the hang of swimming.

Watermelon break.

I'm ready to go again.

2010-09-12T18:40:00.002-05:00

A quiet moment for the two trouble-makers.

Life goes on, even after vacation

2010-08-27T09:52:00.002-05:00

So we've spent the last week getting back into our groove around the T household. Mark's dad was in town for work and visited us a few times, we unpacked, we laundered, we went to soccer practices, we tried to catch up on some sleep. The sleep has been hit-or-miss at times. I hope that these recent nighttime issues are only temporary with the two little ones.

We really enjoyed our vacation, and I'll be posting a few photos soon. It was really nice to spend time with our family that lives so far away, and to spend it by the ocean made it even more of a treat.

Even in the recent evenings, when I'm dragging and tired and the toddlers' demands are high and have left me frazzled, I'm quickly reminded of how blessed I am.

Morgan: mommy. mommy....Mommy!
Me: Yes, Morgan.
Morgan: Guess what?....Mommy--guess what?
Me: What, Morgan.
Morgan: I love you, Mommy

~The End

Wheeeeee!

2010-08-13T08:00:00.001-05:00

We're going on vacation! To the beach! WOOHOOO!

If you can't tell, we're all a little bit excited.

2010-08-10T20:45:00.003-05:00

Rocky...Roooad? Ok, if you are a child of the 80s you may get this reference. This picture is so wrong in so many ways. Big sister likes to mess with her little brother sometimes. He's wearing one of her headbands. The look reminded me of........

Sloth. From The Goonies. Classic!

Guess who he's cheering for?

2010-08-10T19:15:00.005-05:00

Ok, just kidding.
16 months old! Hard to believe. Can say mama, dada, Morgan (kind of), yeah, no no no!, ball, all done, grandma, hi!, and lots of other jarbles that we try to interpret. A super cute giggle and lots of big smiles. Walk almost turning into a run. Figures out how to do new tricks on a daily basis--he now climbs on everything, tries to open everything, and just figure it all out in general! His favorite toy is the phone, going nuts when it rings, as if he's dying to find out who's on the other end. Loves to give/get kisses, saying mmmmmwa! puckering his cute little lips. Or just a regular open-mouth juicy one. he loooves to cuddle. loves the water. loves baths. loves tantrums. loves his family. He is little, and rambunctious, and full of life. our sweet little Ryan Garrett.

Us lately, in a nutshell

2010-08-05T20:54:00.008-05:00

Sweetpea (in her new sports goggles)

The boys

The girls

And a happy thought to leave you with...aren't sleeping babies the best?

A Love Affair

2010-08-05T12:05:00.004-05:00

I may not be knowledgeable in the realm of producing a blog—the formatting, the linking, the uploading--but I know one thing for sure: I. Love. Blogs. There are so many reasons I love them. They’re a snapshot of information, of someone’s point of view (which might just match yours, or--even better--open your mind to fresh ideas). They can teach you something new every day (from recipes to interior design). The photos, the stories, the graphics--like candy to my eyes. And they never fail, in my case, to exist as my daily dose of positivity.

Opening my google reader is a treat every morning. It's like having an email box full of messages from friends. Remember the movie You've Got Mail? Well, picture yourself as Meg Ryan for a moment, opening your mailbox of non-spam goodies. Of course, you need to choose your bloggy 'friends' carefully to achieve all of these benefits, but the beauty of blogs is that--like hips--they don’t lie.

I felt true excitement when I remembered our little family blog that was founded in 2008. I was excited because in the hustle of the day-to-day, I had forgotten about this little creative outlet I had started just over 2 years ago. Our little scrapbook of goodness. It was never meant to be more than a collection of memories for us 3 (now 4) peas to enjoy. But I'm now thinking maybe it will be that a maybe a little more. I'm excited to get started again, excited to tell more stories, and excited to be able to have this little niche for expression and creativity.

I may even let my husband join in again.

Hey look! I figured out how to...

2010-08-03T21:06:00.002-05:00

...log into my blog again! Wow, what a year. And lots to show and tell. Or maybe I just point you to facebook for a recap? Just a little note to let you know I'm ready to start sharing stories about the little peas again. Maybe start branching out into some other non-mommy stuff too. We'll see how it goes.

We're all still alive. In case you were wondering...

Love,

Amanda

The Men in My Life

2009-09-10T21:51:00.005-05:00

Ryan's first college football game, SMU Mustangs vs. Stephen F. Austin

Government Computers Suck the Fun Out of Daily Life

2009-07-16T14:24:00.002-05:00

and other rambling thoughts I have throughout the day at my 40-hour-a-week, cute-baby-less job. I can't put photos on my blog. Heck, I don't even know if it will alow me to upload to blogger anymore, but I guess we'll see in a minute. I also can't pull up facebook, so I'm left to stalk my 'friends' through the tiny screen of my google phone. YES, the horror! I Knoooow. No You tube, no photo uploading. I guess they want us to have some kind of internet security or something like that. blah blah blah.

Anyway, I thought I'd give an update of the kiddos since the time is flying by and I haven't had a moment to put any. thing. at. all. on the blog since I've been back to hell--I mean work. Ryan is growing like a weed. I swear he grows from the time I drop him off at daycare in the morning til I have picked him up again. It makes me sad of course, like I'm missing a lot of fun things. But he doesn't mind it, and his demeanor hasn't changed, he's still happy for the most part, and still sleeping through the night. A couple weeks ago he pushed himself on his side. Yes, a regular olympian this one. But has since only done it a couple times. I guess he's saving his energy. He seems to be very strong, when you hold him he likes to either be sat up or helped to stand; loves to look around at the world and check things out. He is just a very good baby, I can't say it enough. All of my worries to date were for nothing I suppose, and knock on wood. Ryan still likes his swing, and laying under his jungle mat. He's now able to grab onto the hanging things AND his feet, so I suppose it's getting more fun for him by the day. He still smiles a lot, still loves his big sister, still talks loudly and happily when he's woken up in the morning, and still is a good cuddler. I love seeing each little milestone he has. I just love everything about him.

And on to our little Morgan. She's growing fast and getting ever so tall. Mark had to take her to the doctor yesterday for a sinus infection and she weighed the same as she had a few months back, but is definitely taller. Her little porous brain is also getting smarter by the day. She is a chatterbox and loves to sing, in her room, in the car, and everywhere else. She recently developed an obsession for Scooby Doo cartoons, the classic ones, so we had to go buy her some dvds to avoid having to listen to the same two episodes that were on On demand, and *cough* get off our butts to restart it every time an episode would end. She's really getting into books these days, and "markering" as she calls it. Mark and I took her out this week to get some gear for her first soccer camp which will be starting next week. She got the shoes and the shin guards, the tall socks, hair ribbons, adidas shorts..the whole shibang. She really loves dressing up in the outfit so far and I'm really hoping she likes the sport just as much. She still likes to love on her little brother, and I think is doing better about not being the baby anymore. She went through a short phase where she wanted a bottle, but it seems to have passed, and she is more proud than ever of being a big sister. She is just a beautiful little shining light, and I love her so.

Will post some pics of the little ones soon.
Back to work...

One happy Mama looking back

2009-06-16T16:23:00.002-05:00

I have to say that the last 3 months of maternity leave have been one of the greatest blessings of my life, and a time I will never forget. Our Ryan was born, and I got to spend a million seconds basking in the glow of his infant deliciousness, bonding with him like many mothers never get a chance to do. I learned all of his sounds, his expressions, his needs. This has been both the most challenging and rewarding of all of my life experiences to date, and it is just the beginning. This has also been a period where all of my assumptions turned into realities pretty quickly. I’m not exactly sure what I expected, I mean I knew caring for a newborn and changing the dynamic of our family would be a challenge, but it’s hard to prepare for such a change. I was told I’d spend the first couple weeks with the baby living life almost as a zombie, and by golly that advice was probably the truest I received. If not for my mom being here I’m not sure if we would have made it out of those first 2 weeks alive. But we made it, and he becomes even more of a joy to have around as the days fly by. Ryan completes this family, ‘nuff said.

What I can never say enough about is how easy he was to bring into this world. I had a planned, elective c-section--one of those things that no one, family or friend, could quite understand upon hearing. The stigma! The horror! You want to have what? There were risks, but these days not many, and I was very happy in the end with my decision. I have a pretty little purple scar on my lower abdomen where he emerged, and even the skimpiest of bikinis I might ever choose to wear will never reveal it. I am a self-proclaimed control freak, and childbirth was high on my list of events I wanted to control, as much as possible! Not to mention that a high percentage of women go through hours of not-so-fun labor with the same result, so I wasn’t about to take chances with that. My doctor confessed at one of my last check-ups that she completely understood my decision and that she might even choose the same route, if in my shoes. I tell you what, in my last days of hormone mania, I wanted to squeeze her for saying that, kiss her feet; it was music to my ears. She also commented on my state of being pelvically challenged. Thank you and amen.

My pregnancy went smoothly for the most part, aside from a few scares in the early beginning. Up until the very end, when I was moaning and groaning with aches, and almost every move was a challenge, I enjoyed it. I really did. And after he was finally here, I missed it, missed being that close to him, missed the miracle of it all. Of course now I have him to enjoy, but there will always be a little part of me that misses that time. Mark was the best husband through the whole process; he marveled at how the baby grew, talked to my belly every day, and was constantly reminding me of how beautiful he thought the pregnancy made me. In fact, his voice was one of the first the baby heard after he was born, and everyone around could tell that Ryan knew it was his daddy. He is still comforted to this day by his dad’s voice. Mark is definitely the number one reason I had such a happy pregnancy and kept a positive image about what was going on with my midsection. He was ever reminding me of how special and miraculous it was. I’ll never forget when we found out we were expecting—it happened to be just a couple weeks after our honeymoon. A story I’m sure Ryan will love to hear about that when he gets a little older.

Next installment: Ryan’s birth story

And They Grow

2009-05-29T11:59:00.002-05:00

I somewhat successfully pried Morgan away from Sesame Street this morning long enough for her to take a few photos with her little brother. Looking at these I see proof that they both are growing so fast! Morgan is really stretching out these days and is one of tallest in her daycare class. Ryan is growing of course too, and has maintained his ravenous appetite. Just this week his personality is really coming out, he gets more vocal by the day and he just loves to smile. He also loves to fuss, but mostly for the reasons of being wet or hungry so we can handle that. In other news, Morgan is now able to color inside the lines! I know we should encourage her to do the opposite at times;) but it's nice to see her dexterity is developing. She is also loving books these days, and I think she is going to pick up reading very easily. Last night I read her a few books, and then she read me one, making up the story to match the pictures as she went along. Really made me smile.

Well, off to get a few things done. Mark called it an early day and is on his way home.

Happy Friday, everyone!

The Grunty One

2009-05-28T09:02:00.004-05:00

Ryan has to be the gruntiest, loudest baby. From cooing and sighing as he drinks his bottles, to grunting at us because no, he doesn't want to burp, just give him the bottle back already. When he's in a good mood and awake in his swing, or laying on his jungle mat, he talks and talks in his up and down cooing style. He even makes noise in his sleep most of the time, as he snores softly or sighs breathing in and out. I'm woken up in the night to grunting and groaning and grumbling. "I'm kicking off my blanket, mommy, I'm being as loud as I can be, will you get the hint already??" he seems to say. I can usually hold him off with a binkie for a little while but lately he means business. The reward for getting woken up from a peaceful sleep...smiles! I change his diaper and he grins. I put him under my covers by his daddy while I get his bottle and he gives a sweet half-smile, his eyes lighting up. And then when he finally gets to eat, he sighs--loudly--with each gulp. He is somethin else, that is for sure.

The Shirt Says It All

2009-05-26T21:04:00.002-05:00

I had fun making Ryan light up today. Don't you just wanna eat his face? Okay...maybe that's just me.

Waterbaby

2009-05-25T15:58:00.005-05:00

When our lake plans changed last-minute yesterday, we decided to take Morgan to the natetorium since we had promised swimming. She had a blast. She is fearless in the water, which means we need to watch her closely. I think with another round of swimming lessons she'll be ready to swim without help. She found out she could open her eyes under water so she spent half the time under and swallowed a few gallons of chlorine water I think, she didn't feel too good later. We also took Ryan in the pool for the first time. Besides being a little chilly he really liked it, you could see the excitement in his face. It was super cute. After a little swim in the pool he had a bottle and passed out in his stroller for the rest of the time as his big sister braved the slide a bazillion times. Unfortunately she was running around so crazy I didn't get her on film; but of course this little guy always sits still for me.

Memory Lane

2009-05-24T10:19:00.003-05:00

Don't we all wish they could stay this age forever. Protect them from the big bad world.

A trip down memory lane.

2009-05-24T10:11:00.003-05:00

I was cleaning up a thumb drive and came across a vast array of pictures of Morgan. So I'm posting these to take everyone out there on a little trip down memory lane. God bless the children that we are blessed with.

Priceless

2009-05-15T12:19:00.003-05:00

This is Ryan looking extra pitiful. I have to remind him that I haven't let him starve yet. Mark thinks I make this face too; neat.

And we have a smile!

2009-05-14T11:16:00.005-05:00

Ryan started smiling I wanna say late last week, and I finally caught one on camera yesterday. He has a million expressions but this one is the best! Here he is having fun playing with his big sister on his jungle mat. He is 6 1/2 weeks today.

Mothers' Day

2009-05-13T09:56:00.003-05:00

I had an amazing Mothers' Day with my two little ones and a very thoughtful husband. Mark & Morgan woke me up with kisses, cards, and a gift; then we all got ready to go out--surprise brunch at Ziziki's! Oh, it was delicious. We spent the rest of the day doing little projects around the house and getting in a little relaxation. I was so thankful to have Morgan here for mom's day this year; it will be one that I will remember for a long time:)

Almost 6 weeks

2009-05-07T09:44:00.002-05:00

Here is our big guy, almost 6 weeks old! I'm happy to report instead of measuring my days as of late in the 8-5 sense, I get to measure them in cuddles, coos, naps, feedings, and all the other joys and challenges that go with a sweet newborn baby. Ryan has been very easy to take care of so far, only waking up at night to eat. And really only fussing when he's hungry. So, we've established he likes to eat:) Not a surprise in this family. I am so thankful to be spending this precious time with him; I know going back to work will not be easy.

I was delirious

2009-04-30T13:38:00.003-05:00

I was deliriously tired here...but a little part of me wishes we could go back to this day. My little man is growing so fast! This picture was taken his first week home I think. It's ok to be tired when you are so in love. Many more pictures to share, just doesn't seem to be enough time in the day yet:)

The First Month.

2009-04-28T08:59:00.003-05:00

The month of April is quickly drawing to a close. The first month of Ryan's life has been a fast paced one. Amanda has been Super Mom, our little boy is growing so fast, and I have to give thanks to my wife for the job she is doing nourishing that little guy. I say little, but he is growing bigger by the second.

Our home has been jam packed with friends and family, all wanting to get a glimpse of the prince and his mommy. It has been great, but I can say, and no offense to anyone, we are getting back to basics around the house and looking forward to settling into our groove with the kids and life. Still finding evidence that Kenneth got into everything around the house, and it's been what, 3 weeks since they were here..hahaha.

I am back at work now, on a regular basis, so I am attempting to get back into the swing of things around here, grudgingly, but I am attempting it. I would give anything to be able to be home right now with my family enjoying the day.

Well, here I go, attempting to get back into the swing of things..hahaha...

Make that 4 Peas...

2009-03-30T21:16:00.004-05:00

Here are some pics of our new little one, his daddy & proud big sister Morgan.
Oh, and my last belly pic, taken at 4:30 this morning.

The Prince has arrived!!

2009-03-30T09:47:00.004-05:00

We have a baby boy. Ryan Garrett Torres arrived this morning at 7:41 this morning. Weighing in at 6lbs and 12 ounces, 19 1/2 inches long. Mom and son are doing fine. He has had his bath, and is hanging with the nurses. Will post pics as soon as possible.

The big day

2009-03-30T06:35:00.003-05:00

All hooked up to monitors and IV at the hospital. We're having a baby today! Mark and I are both scared and excited, sitting here waiting for the doctor...soon we'll be holding our little boy! It's hard to believe the day is already here!

A Progression

2009-03-24T21:25:00.010-05:00

A quick look at the last 9+ months!

21 Weeks

25 Weeks

33 Weeks

Morgan and I at 34.5 Weeks

35 Weeks in a tiny shirt

36 Weeks

37 Weeks--holy cow!

I just made it to 39 weeks as of today; picture of me and my planet-sized belly soon to follow. It's 5 days til Ryan's birthday and we couldn't be more excited.

I Got Big...

2009-03-13T15:44:00.003-05:00

..and almost overnight. Will post some pictures of the progression soon but holy crap I'm suddenly carrying around a bowling ball-sized baby. And boy does he like to stretch and kick and roll and--just what the heck is going on in there? The OB joked last night that Mark and I should get some sleep now while we can. She went to try to measure his heart rate and he was just rolling and jumping in there like he was trying to avoid her! It was crazy. I think he wants out. And I think I'd be okay with that. If he's not jamming his head painfully into my pelvis he's poking me mercilessly in the ribs with his more-than-likely over-sized feet! The important thing is that he's obviously super healthy, but let's hope he doesn't get too much bigger in the next 2 weeks.

In other news, the nursery is almost completely ready and I'll be washing Ryan's little clothes tomorrow. Also on the agenda is a trip to Babies R Us to get the few remaining things we'll need so we're ready for him to come home. Oh, and need to pack a bag for the hospital just in case. Can't wait to squeeze him!

The Bottomless Pit

2009-03-05T14:27:00.004-06:00

Man, am I craving sugar these days. Not much different than before I was pregnant I suppose, but now I have to pace myself since there's not as much room in the tummy as before. So I just got done shoveling in 3 twinkies, delicious chocolate frosted, cream-filled cakes...and now I feel huge, further exagerating my fullness with all the water I'm trying to drink. I think I'm actually getting a headache from all the sugar....anyway, that is my confession for the day.

This has been a pretty uneventful day, still in this purgatorial training mode at work. We are on some small projects, but not enough to occupy us consistently. Not complaining, just makes for lots of time to browse Babies'R'Us, my blog roll, and gives me plenty of time to neurotically ponder whether we'll be ready when the baby comes home in less than one month. How many onesies/baby wipes/burp cloths will we really need? Am I going to be crabby and barking orders at my poor husband/mother/daughter when I come home because of the post-operative pain? Will I fail miserably at breastfeeding? Will I freak out from lack of sleep and lack of control? The questions are endless and impossible to answer til the time actually comes. I'm really praying that I will be so blissfully distracted by the arrival of Ryan that I won't have time to even consider these nonsensical things. So yeah...let's just go with that.

Okay, back to work.

Baby Shower Pics

2009-03-03T21:34:00.007-06:00

As promised, here are some pics from the shower. Above, some of Ryan's many adorable gifts.

The beautiful and yummy cake.

Helping myself to the beautiful cake! Not a great pic but you can see the belly here.

And here are the lovely ladies. It was a beautiful day:)

Little Miss Sunshine

2009-03-03T21:07:00.002-06:00

Here is our sweet and sassy princess, goofing off around the house in my heels.

A driving conversation

2009-03-03T10:23:00.005-06:00

We got the pleasure of picking up a very cheerful 3-year-old at daycare last night. She is usually excited when both her dad and I pick her up, and also because she had spent the weekend away at her mom's. She has lately gotten into the habit of talking to herself in the car as we drive, and it is cute to hear her chitter-chatter away in the back seat, about anything and everything. Last nite she was doing her normal chatting and she started talking about her family. 'My mom, my Manda, my daddy..two daddies--no, one daddy--and two mommies. Mommy is a mommy and Manda is a mommy. And one daddy. And this is our family'...and so on. She just turned 3 and it amazes me how smart she is sometimes. And it makes me feel so good to hear her say things like that. We have been talking to her a lot about baby Ryan, and how he will be part of our family, and how important it is to be a big sister; how she will always be our first baby. She is very excited, and my wish is that she will always know how special she is. I may not be called a mommy by many people, but the day she moved in with me just over a year ago is the day that my life changed for the better, and I truly became a mother in my heart. And that is what is most important to me.

Happy Thoughts

2009-03-02T14:08:00.003-06:00

Rachael over at Mommy Learns to Blog has a weekly post called 'Making Me Happy Monday', which is about the things that she is happy about that particular week. I really like the idea of this so here is my first shot at my own 'Happy Thoughts' for this glorious (NOT) Monday...because it just can't hurt to count blessings, at least I don't think so.

1. I had the most wonderful baby shower thrown for me this past Saturday. My good friends Sharon and Donna made it all happen and it was really great. I am so, so thankful for my caring friends and family. Ryan got a ton of beautiful gifts, he is going to be one stylin baby. Pictures to follow soon.

2. I am almost 36 weeks pregnant and have had a very easy time of it. No morning sickness or drastic weight gain, good blood pressure, and very few aches and pains. I'm getting to that point where my tummy is making me uncomfortable, but I know there is not much time left, so I will be enjoying the last of his kicks and squirms:)

3. My snoogle. It is the best body pillow ever, and makes me as comfortable as possible for sleeping right now, like a happy little cocoon.

4. Morgan is coming home today! She will be back where she belongs after school today and both Mark and I will get to pick her up since we road to work together.

5. The sun is a'shinin'. Oh how I love sun. Not extremely warm today but it is pretty outside.

6. Ryan's room is almost done, just need to hang a few more things on the wall and move in a chair from our front living room. This is a huge relief. Makes me feel really good to look in there and see it all set up for him:) Also, I managed to get the guest room/office cleaned out and organized this past weekend. A clean desk is pure joy to me.

7. Only an hour and a half left at work and I can run home to spend time with my family and relax! :)

So that's what's making me happy today! Any fun news for you to share?

~amanda

What day is it? Where am I?

2009-02-24T12:44:00.008-06:00

So the time has really flown by here and lots has happened. Unfortunately, not much of that stuff has made it to this so-called blog. So, to wrap up the last month or more, here is where we're at. And pictures to be added later. I know, what a drag. Can't even add photos to your stinkin blog? Nope. I'm a government employee and they don't so much like photo uploading around here. I am on lunch at the moment, however, in case anyone was wondering how I'm spending my work time. So here goes...

~I spent 6 weeks at a training center in Dallas and then another week in Kansas City, Missouri, learning about immigration and maybe how to do my new job correctly. Mark went with to MO and we dubbed it our faux last pre-baby vacation. He got to work onsite there too...so both of us not really on vacation at all. Go figure. After being all but forgotten I managed to 'graduate' my basic training and graciously return to the office in Dallas.

~Mark sits across the 2nd floor from me and if I want to peek at the top of his head all day I may do so. It's nice breathing the same air again:)

~Morgan turned 3 on Jan. 18th. Our little girl is growing so fast! And she is one smart cookie.

~My baby shower is just a couple days away, to be given by my good friends Sharon and Donna. Should be a very fun time!

~I got a lot more pregnant, now almost 35 weeks and beginning my weekly doctor appointments. Little Ryan is doing fabulous in there and enjoys kicking the crap out of my ribs on a daily basis. I get lots of comments about how small I am looking but doctor says the belly is measuring right on. One more month to go before he makes his debut, and I am sincerely hoping he doesn't decide to come early--there is so much still to do to get ready! Which makes me nervous. But then I think about 12 glorious weeks at home with him and that makes me feel better. It is a mere 34 days until Ryan's birthday--a little over a month--and he'll be here. We as a family are all very excited. I just can't wait to look into his eyes and hold him tight, to finally see what he looks like...

I had a dream a couple days ago that I fell asleep during my c-section and didn't wake up til almost an hour later. That was a little disturbing but I'm sure 99.9% unlikely to happen. Just a few short weeks and we'll be a little family of 4....

Tight cheese

2009-01-12T06:35:00.002-06:00

Tight cheese, " I know tight cheese daddy." Thats what Morgan said to us last night. She then proceeded to give us a demonstration of her "tight cheese" skills. She was trying to say Ti Che, bless her heart, and it was the funniest thing. She wants to take Karate classes, not ballet, not soccer, not even gymnastics like she had been asking. Thats all we need, mini Bruce Lee running around kicking us in the shins.. hahaha. Will keep you all posted, say your prayers for us...hahaha

Start the Countdown

2008-12-18T14:19:00.002-06:00

The countdown to Christmas break has begun. Dear God, please get here fast. Mark has been working a bunch of overtime hours to get us through the extra holiday expenses and I have been especially tired these days with mounting tasks and a growing baby. In addition, Morgan seems to be coming down with a cold or similar and has been a bear these last couple days to put it nicely. We all need a break to say the least! Monday will be our last day to work and then we're free and clear to get out of here and down to the valley for the following 6 wonderous days. There are only two things on the holiday agenda: eat and relax; and repeat as needed. I'm really looking forward to spending some time with Mark's family and this will mark our first Christmas as the 3 peas.

As of today I'm 25 weeks pregnant. I plan on actually adding pics to the blog, but I'm always doing this at work and the gov. will not let me access my photos here. The baby has been super active and it still feels like a miracle. He is constantly reminding me that I am not alone. The kicks have moved from my lower tummy all the way up to my ribs at times, a clear indicator that he is quickly growing. Only 15 weeks to go, or 105 days as my counter says. Less than 4 months. Both extremely exciting and scary at the same time:) I'm hoping to use the weekends closely following the holidays to clean out the closet in our office-converting-to-nursery, and getting rid of some unneeded clutter. Actually a very exciting thought. Not sure when the crib will be here but we'll be able to finish the remainder of what needs to be done.

Ok, back to work or something similar...

A Better Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T09:33:00.003-06:00

Mark and I got to spend our first Thanksgiving together this past weekend, and had a wonderful, relaxing, uneventful time. We watched movies, did some Christmas shopping, ate Boston Market and crappy store-bought pie, and cleaned the house in preparation for my parents coming to visit. We worked half a day on Friday, but all in all it was a wonderful, blissful weekend. And to top it off Morgan came home yesterday in a joyous mood, happy to be home and excited for her day to meet Santa Claus at school today.

I can't believe it's December already! But I'm very excited for the coming month. We'll get to see my parents this coming weekend, and then spend a few days in the valley at Christmas with Mark's family. Also, the baby will be here in less than 4 months. Crazy to imagine that! There is much to be done but I'm excited for all of it. Woohoo!

Baby Ryan

2008-11-18T08:47:00.002-06:00

After going to our ultrasound and seeing our little one, I will have to say that this baby thing is finally sinking in:) I was so happy to find out that we were having a little boy, happy that Morgan will remain our special princess and that she will have a rough-and-tumble little brother to play with and pick on (and give kisses to). She got over the fact he was indeed not a baby sister pretty quickly, and is almost as excited about him as we are I think. She has her own ultrasound photo and she likes to look at him and give him a kiss before she goes to bed at night. I'm so glad she has her dad's affectionate personality, she is truly a sweet little girl.

In other news, Ryan is on the move. I think it was about 2 weeks ago that I started feeling him kicking around in there. At first it was so slight that I wasn't sure if it was my lunch or him. haha. Now when he decides to wake up, I can most definitely feel it. I would say that he sleeps most of the time when I'm up and about, and then when I'm laying in bed, or stretched out on the couch, he likes to jump around and make his presence known. Now that I've seen him on the ultrasound moving around, I can pretty much picture what he's doing in there. It is both awesome and totally weird to feel, and see! him jumping around and stretching in there (my belly jumps and jiggles). At the doctor we even got a glimpse of him sucking his thumb in there. He is currently measuring in the 73rd percentile and I have no doubt he'll be born a strong, hopefully not too big, little guy. Also in the last week or so I have finally been showing a little bit, and bought some pants with elastic. I love them! And Mark is slightly jealous:) I will be sure to post some pictures soon.

We are halfway there and have roughly 20 weeks til we will get to welcome Ryan to our little family! :)

Drum rollll pleeaasseee!!!

2008-11-12T20:22:00.005-06:00

Well, we know what we are having. Is the suspense building? hahaha... It is official, there will be one more male in this family. World, watch out. Amanda and I went for the sonogram and the technician said there was no doubt.... you could see "it" as plain as day... We have our princes, and now we will have our prince. I am a happy man.

Today is the day!!

2008-11-11T06:22:00.002-06:00

I have been up since 4:30 am and am full of nerves. Good nerves. Today is the day Amanda and I find out what out little peanut is, a boy or a girl. At first I thought it was going to be a boy, then it kinda fell like a girl might be in there, now I have no idea.. I honestly dont have a preference. I just know I will have one more little angel in this world to watch over. I told Amanda we should get her a tall coffee so when they go to sonogram peanut he/she will be standing tall and ready to burst out..hehehe. Well folks we will be posting as soon as our fingers can get to a computer to spread the word.

Countdown

2008-10-29T15:15:00.002-05:00

Lots of change going on around here with Mark and I both in new jobs. We also just found out that our midterm ultrasound will be November 11th. This works out great since we both have the day off for Veterans' Day (just one perk of being a gov. employee). We'll be getting a good look at peanut and we'll get to finally find out if we have a girl or boy peanut. I can't wait! Besides that we are looking forward to a visit from my folks the first weekend of December. So lots of good stuff to look forward to. And my first Halloween with Morgan in a couple days:)

Big week ahead of us!!

2008-10-10T06:43:00.003-05:00

Well folks, there is a big week ahead for our little family. A and I will both be starting new jobs. Im so stoked! Our little pod of a family is growing and moving forward in this crazy world together. Watch out world, we coming, and we are taking over..hahaha.. but seriously, the future ahead looks so bright. I am looking forward to each and every day like a new born baby. Stay tuned folks.. big announcement in the near future... there will be a peanut sighting again, and who knows.. we may be announcing............. well stay tuned and youll find out!

New Sonogram Pic

2008-09-23T14:21:00.006-05:00

We had a bit of a scare last week, but at least we were able to get another look at Peanut. He's starting to look like a real baby and might even be sucking his thumb in this photo. I worked a total of two days last week between the cable guy and doctor appointments, and Mark did very well taking care of the two of us as the doctor said to "get as much rest as possible." I, of course, didn't mind the resting part. Only about 5 more weeks til we can find out the sex of the baby:)

Pumas??

2008-09-03T11:32:00.002-05:00

Pumas... thats M's big thing now... hahaha.. there are pumas everywhere... we run and hide from the pumas.. she climbs into her bed and gets under the covers because the pumas wont get her there... hahaha... she said the pumas were going to get her diaper, her baby, her butt... hahaha... you have to love it. When we run and hide we are hiding from the pumas. We know she got it from her Diego movies, which by the way she loves dearly. I swear she knows each one by its name, and knows which one you are putting on before you even hit play. I love seeing how she interacts now with her shows, answering questions, dancing and singing along.... our little princess is growing by leaps and bounds daily.

More Pictures of Peanut

2008-08-29T08:48:00.002-05:00

We went yesterday for our official early term sonogram. They said everything looked normal and he was the right size for 9 weeks exactly. My official due date is April 2nd. Mark thinks he's already exhibiting family traits with the giant head, I think that's what they all look like at that stage, and I personally hope he doesn't end up coming out with a giant head. It was really neat to see him dancing around in there, and even looked like he was waving. haha.

Introducing: Peanut

2008-08-25T08:50:00.002-05:00

Here he/she is! In case you are wondering, yes, it is a baby; 8 weeks along. We even got to see the heart beating and it was amazing.

The 4th Pea

2008-08-21T10:35:00.003-05:00

Tomorrow we go to our first OB appointment and will get to see our little pea. We are both extremely excited. Sometimes it's hard to believe there is a little person growing in there, but my body sure knows something big is going on...mostly evident by my exhausted days sitting at this desk. I've read that the second trimester is better, more energy and less aches. Only 6 weeks to go! If I have a picture from the appointment it will be up here promptly on Monday. Yippee!

IT IS OFFICIAL!!

2008-08-07T07:39:00.002-05:00

It is official people... we are having a BABY!!!! Amanda, Morgan, and myself will be blessed with a new addition to our little family come early April of '09. You all will be happy to know that mommy is doing great, some aches and pains, but overall good. Morgan is super excited as she has been asking for a baby sister for some time now...for some reason she doesnt want a baby brother..hahaha...I started to show her yesterday how to properly hold the new baby using one of her favorite dolls she is constantly tugging around. We got her this little stroller that came with a baby, and they are inseperable. We have our first sonogram on the 22nd of this month, and you know who will be posting the pics I'm sure. I am so blessed. I will be putting together a press release statement for all those family members out there that are not technologically tuned in. So please keep an eye on the AP Wire.
Ciao

Just for Fun

2008-07-23T13:34:00.001-05:00

http://video.yahoo.com/watch/1749873/5823731

Funny kids crack me up:) Enjoy!

We came, we conquered the Isle of Jamaica

2008-07-14T11:11:00.004-05:00

Well, the day came, and yes I, Mark Anthony, did cry. Who wouldnt? Amanda standing before me as beautiful as ever, the gorgeous Caribbean water around us, and me reciting my vows to her. It came from the heart, and it felt so good to be standing there with her. Amanda I love you and will love you untill the end of time. It was the best week Ive ever had, just the two of us, relaxing in the sun and sipping "Jamaican Smiles". Morgan came home to us Sunday morning in such a wonderful mood. She came running up and gave me a big ol hug and kiss, and then the first words out of her mouth were, " Where Manda?" I just wanted to cry. Im looking forward to the days and years ahead of us. Oh, and Amanda will be posting pics, she is doing that as i type this actually.. hehehe.. bye for now.

4 More Days

2008-07-03T08:50:00.015-05:00

Despite a tropical storm that could blow us off the island....we're off to get married in two days. And saying our vows a couple days after that! No matter what the weather does, I know this will be a good trip. And an official start of a long and happy life, Godwilling.

I count my blessings every day that Mark and Morgan came into my life.

This is my first on here!!

2008-06-24T06:31:00.002-05:00

Well people, Hi, this is Mark.. hahaha. Amanda has done such a wonderful job with our little piece of the vast internet world and am happy to share bits and pieces of it with all of you. This time two weeks from now, will officially be "The day after." Smile. We will be in bed, me probably snoring "softly" and Amanda drooling every so slightly...hehehe. What can I say, but I will be in heaven. Im hoping to take lots and lots of pictures to post here. This will be my first time in the Carribean and I cant wait. It has been a journey getting to where we are today, and it has all been so worth it. This wonderful woman that I have found to be my partner in life is amazing.

I love you babe

Two Weeks! Seriously

2008-06-23T14:14:00.003-05:00

The time is flying by and it's now two weeks til we say 'I do' in the sand in Montego Bay. I am almost in shock that the day is almost here, though happily ready that the time has gone so fast. The ceremony will be the culmination of everything we have been through in the last few months, and worked towards...and the celebration of the very important commitment we have made to each other. It will be so worth it to formally recognize the joining of our family, and to have the opportunity to relax and celebrate. I can't wait, I can't wait, I can't wait!

I love you, Mark:) muah muah

Engagement Pics

2008-06-12T16:14:00.003-05:00

So our pictures were ready as of today! And they are wonderful, better than we could have hoped for. Anahi did such a wonderful job. The family photos are my favorite I would say. I am so thankful that we were able to make the trip and take the photos, they are something that we are going to cherish for many, many years. I am beaming!!:) There are a couple posted on the photographer's blog at http://www.anahiphotoart.blogspot.com/.

The New House!

2008-06-03T09:08:00.004-05:00

Put up pics on Flickr of the house. We still have some work to do as far as unpacking and decorating, but it's all coming together very nicely. It is such a relief to be back in a house. It is truly a luxury to make dinner without bumping into each other, and just having the space to spread out. We didn't think we'd be able to do this so soon, and it has been such a blessing. Everyone is comfortable; Morgan loves her room and sleeps like a baby, Presley is happy as a clam sniffing his way around the yard, and Mark and I have been raving about how relaxing it is there. Hope we can have some more visitors soon:)

A family moved

2008-05-19T15:13:00.000-05:00

As of Saturday our little family has officially moved to Allen into the house that Mark owns. This was a big decision rendered by Mark and I...and after much talking and soul searching, we decided that it was the smartest move for many reasons. It has already been quite a relief to have some more room to live in, including a pretty back yard, just a really great, comfortable feeling. If you're reading this you may already know that this is the place that Mark shared with his ex-wife, albeit for a brief period of time. So even though our crappy renter decided to flood the house and cause some serious damage, she unknowingly helped us out, as we revamped much of the house...leaving it to look like something different than what it was, and leaving us with a fresh start to make our own footprints. So one door closed and another (expensive) window was opened....and it has turned out to be quite a blessing. Morgan comes home today from her weekend away and I can't wait to see her reaction to seeing all of our stuff moved in. She will have room to run, and play, and chase Presley (who, by the way, has been surprisingly comfortable and has shown almost no neurotic tendencies so far:). Can't wait to show pictures, working on getting that camera battery.

Say cheese.

2008-05-14T14:20:00.000-05:00

Mark and I are having engagement pictures taken next weekend by an amazing photographer we found in south Texas. Here is the link to her website www.anahiphotoart.com. Link to pictures will follow soon. Enjoy!

Flickr

2008-05-13T16:12:00.002-05:00

Ok, I like this blog thing...but I'd also like to be able to label pictures better to tell the story, so I've gone ahead and started using my Fickr account. Shoot me an email for the URL if you'd like to see it.

Feel free to check out this spot for any new photos and we'll see how this goes. So far I've only got some up from December. I'm working on getting a new battery for my camera. I love to use it but it seems both of the ion batteries are shot. Mark's camera gives me blurry pics every time...not going to comment on the camera or user, since I know he has issues with it also. Hope to have many new pics soon, we've got lots of stuff going on in the coming months, headed up with a move to Allen this coming weekend. Wish us luck and catch ya on the flip side!

Meeting the Family

2008-05-13T15:23:00.002-05:00

After much anticipation, Mark and Morgan were introduced to my family at the beginning of April. We had a laidback weekend in Fargo hanging out at Darcie's and spending lots of time in the pool, which Morgan loved. I would say it went over well. I am very happy that my family was able to meet the two people I plan on spending the rest of my life with. One milestone I am glad to have crossed!

Fam BBQ

2008-05-13T15:14:00.001-05:00

We got to spend some fun time with family the weekend before last. I was happy to meet more of the group, and Morgan got to run wild with the cousins. Hope we get to do it again soon:)

Mom Stuff

2008-03-12T16:17:00.000-05:00

There are moments in this world, you wish you could freeze...

Family Time

2008-03-06T08:33:00.000-06:00

Our life is so hectic at times, but chilling out at home together makes it all okay. And Morgan has a contagious laugh...

Some cute people I know

2008-02-21T14:21:00.001-06:00

Mark & Morgan

Ms. Morgan

2008-02-18T15:33:00.000-06:00

Here's Morgie chomping on hotdogs, letting me take her picture. Being silly. I love her little legs. After these were taken she yelled out her new word: caca. We can thank dad for that one.

Super Bowl Sunday 08

2008-02-18T15:25:00.000-06:00

We packed up the group and headed to Grand Prairie for a Super Bowl party at Mark's cousin's house. Morgan had fun with all the cousins, especially Tricia and Frank's little neice Tori. Here she is leading baby Tori around the back yard. This was a very sweet thing to witness.

Uncontrollable Giggles

2008-02-15T16:41:00.000-06:00

I love these pictures of Morgan. We all went dress shopping about a month back on a Sunday afternoon, and she was running and flying blindly through the racks, just having the time of her life. I'd hear her call out my name...I'd answer back...and when she finally found the row I was in she let out a scream mixed with giggles, her hair flying with static. These will make me smile forever I think.

Three Peas in a Pod

2008-02-15T14:27:00.000-06:00

I was once into scrapbooking, but keeping up with pics and materials and taking over the kitchen table for hours is just not feasible these days. Blogging has always been of interest to me, but looked much too complicated. So here goes trying something new! I look forward to documenting some very important family memories for us, ones that may become fuzzy to us someday.

The following will be an account of our ever-changing family life. We've only just begun the journey with our little family so there are lots of new things and experiences to share. Me as a new 'mommy' and the melding of all of our lives. Enjoy and feel free to comment:)