I think we all could agree that we are blessed far more than we deserve. Since Thanksgiving falls on the 24th, I'll go with that number for my list this year (in no particular order)...there are SO many more I could add.
1} I'm thankful for my husband. This man knows me so well..and loves me all the same. It truly is a mystery that I am lovable to that extent. We like to think back and discuss the earlier days in our relationship...it is astonishing how far we've come. I am so thankful he chose me. And if I had to choose again, it'd still be him. Time and time again.
2} I'm thankful for my husband's protection. Each new day when I hear from him by any form of communication my heart breaths a huge sigh of relief. Because at that moment, he is safe...and at that moment, I am grateful.
3} I'm thankful for my son and his health. Bennett is by far my biggest accomplishment and the best time I've ever spent. Every single second I put into raising him gives me the greatest joy...he's my purpose. His health is something that I do not take for granted. He is growing, he is happy, and he is loved.
4} I'm thankful for the Army. While I may not enjoy the time my husband spends away from home, the Army provides protection for our country, food, diapers, and roof over my son's head, healthcare, and opportunities of a lifetime. I'll feel this way about any career my husband ever chooses.
5} I'm thankful for hurtful people & pain. Recently, God has opened my eyes to how he can use every single situation for His plan. He sometimes gives us people to hurt us so we can appreciate the ones that treat us right. This song comes to mind...
"what if trials of this life are Your mercies in disguise?"
6} I'm thankful for sweatpants. Especially on Thanksgiving night.
7} I'm thankful for the opportunity to stay home with Bennett for his first few years. I'm not sure how long I will be able to be a stay-at-home mom, but I am soaking up every minute of it. There are days where I think I might go nuts and need social interaction, or someone else to wash the bottles, or even a change of said sweatpants since I haven't gotten out of them in days. But this is a chance of a lifetime and I am appreciating it for everything it is.
8} I'm thankful for modern technology. Greg and I have been able to communicate so often and he's been able to see Benny grow, even if it is over a webcam or pictures on facebook. Our situation could be much worse and I'm so thankful that Greg makes the time to spend a few mintues with us. He recently told me that some of his co-workers thought he was crazy for Skyping with me everyday. It didn't really seem like an option for us to not talk? Our marriage is thriving even during this deployment and I feel so blessed. We both are making it our number one priority. A happy husband and wife can then raise a happy baby & have a happy home. There's so much I could say about this topic. Basically, I'm a firm believer that the marriage is the heart of the home...without a healthy one, all else falls apart.
9} I'm thankful for God. There is no way I could go through any day without Him. His grace, His forgiveness, His protection, His plan, His faithfulness...especially during this deployment.
10} I'm thankful for coffee.
11} I'm thankful for girlfriends. I know some of the greatest people of all time and it's proven more and more everyday. I recently was able to have dinner with 3 other girls that I went to elementary, middle, and high school with. Two of them I even went to college and lived with. As our lives have changed we have moved off, some married, some had children...but our friendship has remained. It doesn't matter how long I go without seeing or talking to these girls, when we get together it's like we're still sitting in the lobby at PHS having lunch together. I can't tell you how much this means to me. I also have been blessed with new friends along the years. Some from college, some from Alaska, some from work, some from random run-ins...not a day goes by where I don't appreciate them and their friendship. All of these people I would drop anything for, no matter how far away I am.
12} I'm thankful for Sunday dinners. Growing up, it's one of my favorite memories. Everyone would come home from church and sit down for a huge meal. My family doesn't get to have them as often due to crazy schedules and so many children, but Greg's family never fails to sit down every Sunday, hold hands to pray, and eat together. I so long for the day where Greg, Bennett, and I can come home from church together, hold hands, and bless our meal. It's a time to slow down and enjoy each other's company before another busy week starts.
13} I'm thankful for green bean casserole, sister shubert rolls, and cranberry.
14} I'm thankful that I'm someone worth dying for.
15} I'm thankful for having a son. I still love big bows, tutus, pink, and glitter...but Bennett is more than I could ever dream of. God knew exactly what I needed at this time in my life. I could not imagine my life without camo, orange, overalls, and boots.
16} I'm thankful for dirty dishes, dirty laundry, and dirty diapers. It means we have food, clothes, and a healthy baby.
17} I'm thankful for sequins. They make life so much prettier.
18} I'm thankful for my mommy friends. Nothing can make me feel better than the words, "oh, you too?". All of these people I consider in the category above about girlfriends. I know some of the best Mothers and it is awesome to have such people to look up to and help me along this crazy journey.
19} I'm thankful for Alaska. For without it, I don't think I would have ever realized just how awesome the Lower 48 is.
20} I'm thankful for my calendar. I'm crazy about keeping it updated and marking each and every day off. When I just "need a moment", I usually grab my calendar and look at it. I look at how far I've come, what I have to look forward to, and all the lovely orange x's.
21} I'm thankful for etsy. I know one good thing will come from this obsession & that's the fact that Bennett will never forget his name because it is on pretty much everything. ha! I cannot get enough of monogrammed and personalized things..must be the southern girl in me!
22} I'm thankful for my iPhone. So silly to some, but it has saved the day far more times than I can count.
23} I'm thankful for family traditions. I'm SO big on starting them with Greg & Bennett...we are just missing one piece to the puzzle.
24} I'm thankful for YOU. If you are reading this, I'm thankful that God put us in each other's path.
Blessings! xoxo
Wednesday, November 23, 2011
Friday, November 18, 2011
cherish.
I was looking through my Flipshare folders and came across some of my favorite memories...
I did everything possible to put myself into labor so I could have Greg by my side when we welcomed Bennett into the world. The list was very long of activities I participated in. It even included Just Dance on the Wii. I had forgotton how absolutely huge my belly was! Wow..I miss those days. I LOVED being pregnant! I know I'm gonna look back on this video in 20 years and die from laughing so hard!
My husband is such a standup man...and he's also an amazing father. I cherish the 10 days I saw him in action and cannot WAIT for him to return home & pick up where he left off!
1 week old Birthday.
I did everything possible to put myself into labor so I could have Greg by my side when we welcomed Bennett into the world. The list was very long of activities I participated in. It even included Just Dance on the Wii. I had forgotton how absolutely huge my belly was! Wow..I miss those days. I LOVED being pregnant! I know I'm gonna look back on this video in 20 years and die from laughing so hard!
My husband is such a standup man...and he's also an amazing father. I cherish the 10 days I saw him in action and cannot WAIT for him to return home & pick up where he left off!
1 week old Birthday.
Thursday, November 17, 2011
Dear Santa...
I've done this before and it was fun so I think I'll just do it again! :) Many people have asked me what to get Bennett for Christmas, so I'm including that too at the bottom of this blog post!
First and foremost, these are a NEED. I go through a pair of Uggs in no time flat. Seriously, I live in them during the months of October-March. Well worth the investment.
I'm loving the Bailey Button Triplet ones this year!
I'm a little late to hop on the bandwagon, but I'm currently obsessing over Toms. I feel like they would be a great addition to my Mommy wardrobe since I'm basically living in jeans, tees, and scarves these days. I would love each and every pair but these are a few of my favs. How am I ever supposed to pick which one?!? Perhaps I should start a collection...
Obsessed with this monogrammed cross body bag from Marley Lilly. I just think it's perfect in every way..camel color of course, although mustard isn't bad either.
Open Front Cardigans from Target. I cannot get the pic from online, but I own this in black and love it! I hope to have a couple more colors before I go back to AK. Such an staple to any outfit, especially jeans and tee. {Would be perfect with above Toms} As always, gift cards to my favorite place of all time, always work too! :)
Random, I know..but I'm dying for a monogrammed baseball hat! These from Marley Lilly are adorable!
And I may not get this hat for Christmas..but you can bet it will be in my possession before Greg comes home and we take our big family vaca! Oh my, how I want this! From Marley Lilly also..can anyone tell I'm in love with this website?
This might seem silly to some, but now that I'm a mommy I find it sooo incredibly hard to spend money on myself for anything, much less for lavish things. And yes, I am now the girl who considers a manicure and pedicure lavish. Never thought that day would come. I need both a mani/pedi far more than you will ever want to know. It's sad really and gross.
Like I mentioned in the post below, I had such a hard time putting this list together!
Now..on to Bennett. Here's a few ideas for him.
-Toys-R-Us gift cards. Reason? We literally have NO toys for him in Alaska and will be making a trip to Anchorage when Greg gets home. It would be great to get him some age appropriate toys then. That way, I don't have to lug some back from NC.
-6 Month toys that light up or make sound. The kid loves music.
-Wiggles DVD's.
-Books..our collection is so small & it is so incredible sad! {Gift Card to Barnes & Noble is a good idea since we have one of those in Alaska}
-Play remote control or cell phone. He's obsessed with both.
-Swim Lessons! We're going to start in January...he'll be 6 months old!
-Puzzle Mat. This would be great for here in NC and when we get back to Alaska for a little baby that's learning to sit up and crawl.
-PJ's. We go through some serious pajamas around here. I feel like everytime I turn around he's outgrown a pair. I LOVE the ones from Children's Place for multiple reasons, but mainly because they zip and are lean. They run small so he's already in size 6-9months. For a Christmas gift I'd say size 6-9 or 12months, fleece or cotton. On days where we don't leave the house, the cotton ones are perfect! I can't believe I just admitted that occassionally I let my child stay in PJ's all day, but I did also say we didn't leave the house when that happens! :)
I think Bennett & I have been on the nice list..let's see what Santa thinks...
First and foremost, these are a NEED. I go through a pair of Uggs in no time flat. Seriously, I live in them during the months of October-March. Well worth the investment.
I'm loving the Bailey Button Triplet ones this year!
I'm a little late to hop on the bandwagon, but I'm currently obsessing over Toms. I feel like they would be a great addition to my Mommy wardrobe since I'm basically living in jeans, tees, and scarves these days. I would love each and every pair but these are a few of my favs. How am I ever supposed to pick which one?!? Perhaps I should start a collection...
Obsessed with this monogrammed cross body bag from Marley Lilly. I just think it's perfect in every way..camel color of course, although mustard isn't bad either.
Open Front Cardigans from Target. I cannot get the pic from online, but I own this in black and love it! I hope to have a couple more colors before I go back to AK. Such an staple to any outfit, especially jeans and tee. {Would be perfect with above Toms} As always, gift cards to my favorite place of all time, always work too! :)
Random, I know..but I'm dying for a monogrammed baseball hat! These from Marley Lilly are adorable!
And I may not get this hat for Christmas..but you can bet it will be in my possession before Greg comes home and we take our big family vaca! Oh my, how I want this! From Marley Lilly also..can anyone tell I'm in love with this website?
Like I mentioned in the post below, I had such a hard time putting this list together!
Now..on to Bennett. Here's a few ideas for him.
-Toys-R-Us gift cards. Reason? We literally have NO toys for him in Alaska and will be making a trip to Anchorage when Greg gets home. It would be great to get him some age appropriate toys then. That way, I don't have to lug some back from NC.
-6 Month toys that light up or make sound. The kid loves music.
-Wiggles DVD's.
-Books..our collection is so small & it is so incredible sad! {Gift Card to Barnes & Noble is a good idea since we have one of those in Alaska}
-Play remote control or cell phone. He's obsessed with both.
-Swim Lessons! We're going to start in January...he'll be 6 months old!
-Puzzle Mat. This would be great for here in NC and when we get back to Alaska for a little baby that's learning to sit up and crawl.
-PJ's. We go through some serious pajamas around here. I feel like everytime I turn around he's outgrown a pair. I LOVE the ones from Children's Place for multiple reasons, but mainly because they zip and are lean. They run small so he's already in size 6-9months. For a Christmas gift I'd say size 6-9 or 12months, fleece or cotton. On days where we don't leave the house, the cotton ones are perfect! I can't believe I just admitted that occassionally I let my child stay in PJ's all day, but I did also say we didn't leave the house when that happens! :)
I think Bennett & I have been on the nice list..let's see what Santa thinks...
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
random.ness.
- I really enjoy putting "ness" on the end of words. I also enjoy "tastic".
- I've already started looking up ideas for Greg's Homecoming banner...too soon? Never.
- When Bella {my parent's dog..err, ok, my dog who lives with my parents...long story} barks, I instantly freak out & think a murder is standing right outside the front door. No matter what time of day.
- Bennett is such a good sleeper. I wish he would give me some tips. I toss and turn all night long. How many people say this of their 4-month old?
- I put on my calendar to lose 5lbs during the Holidays. Stop laughing....That wasn't supposed to be funny.
- Reason #8675309 why I love the south: Sonic.
- Is it possible to have complete and total Baby Fever with a 4-month old? Possible, but definately ridiculous.
- One of my favorite places of all time is The Dollar Tree. I love stuff, it's true and this store has the most random assortment. I can walk out of there with 3 bags full and a balloon tied around my wrist and Greg can't even yell because I only spent $20.
- I know some of the greatest people in life....Seriously. Some of who I've only met a couple of times out & about while at WCU, but such kind people.
- Bennett is real close to having his first tooth. When it does appear, I will be emotional. Must he grow up?
- Are you still wondering about balloon mentioned above? Come on people..who doesn't love a balloon? And for only 100 pennies, who can pass it up?
- It took me 20 minutes to untangle my hair after my shower today. I only wish I was exaggerating.
- Speaking of hair..They weren't kidding when they said I would lose all my hair after giving birth. I've always been a "shedder". Wearing black with my hair down screams disaster to me, but during my pregnancy my hair stayed put. Must have been all the horomones. Now my hair falls out more than ever..it's a wonder I even have any left on my head.
- I have no idea who "they" are in the above random comment. It just seemed appropriate.
- If I had the money & could hire anyone I wanted, I wouldn't hire someone to clean my toilets. Nope. I'd hire someone to dry and style my hair everyday. The girl that does my hair in AK can dry and style my hair like nobody's business in 10 minutes flat. I'd choose her.
- I love tweezers. Laura Beth is rubbing off on me even still. She picks at her face every.single.night before bed. It doesn't matter how long of a day/night we've had she will still come in, take a shower, sit at her vanity and pick at her face. All of those years of living together and making fun of her..now, I am her. I'd like to have a pair of tweezers in every room/bag.
- I google words to make sure I've spelled them correctly.
- I keep seeing sequined shorts all over the internet this Holiday season and if I don't own a pair soon I might faint. Of course, I did say I wanted to own a pair..not wear them. My body is not "sequin shorts appropriate" after having Bennett. And food for thought, how many people do you think own a pair in Alaska? Or much less, wouldn't look at me like I've lost my marbles if I did wear some. Le sigh...
-I kiss on my son a lot. I wonder if that will be awkward for him when he's 26?
- I am really missing the sweet girls that I coached both in NC and AK. It was such a priviledge to be in their lives and have them in mine. I've said I would never coach again until we make it back to North Carolina permanently...we'll see how long that lasts.
- I used to have a huge fear that I will have a daughter and she will not want to be a cheerleader. Such a silly thought, because as long as she is happy, I will be happy. After having Bennett, this I'm sure.
- I hope people look at the back of our Christmas Cards this year.
- I'm obsessed with my new blog design. Doesn't take much to make my day!
- I absolutely think the happiness of ones marriage is directly related to how often you laugh together.
- I'm working on a "Dear Santa" Christmas post & this year, I'm having a harder time than normal finding things to put on it. Sure, there's lots that I would like to have when I'm out shopping, but once I'm out of the store, I typically forget about them. In order for items to make it on my "shopping" list, they must be unforgettable. I'd rather spend money on Bennett than myself. Welcome to Motherhood, I've been told.
- Amazon saves the day when it comes to buying my son's formula! This hypo-allergenic stuff costs as much as a small car. Joking, but it's expensive! Thank you Subscribe & Save!
- I feel like I should put Bennett on my resume. For he is my biggest accomplishment to date.
- I'm gonna end this post now, but I think I'll include a picture below. No post is fun without a picture. Until next time...
- I've already started looking up ideas for Greg's Homecoming banner...too soon? Never.
- When Bella {my parent's dog..err, ok, my dog who lives with my parents...long story} barks, I instantly freak out & think a murder is standing right outside the front door. No matter what time of day.
- Bennett is such a good sleeper. I wish he would give me some tips. I toss and turn all night long. How many people say this of their 4-month old?
- I put on my calendar to lose 5lbs during the Holidays. Stop laughing....That wasn't supposed to be funny.
- Reason #8675309 why I love the south: Sonic.
- Is it possible to have complete and total Baby Fever with a 4-month old? Possible, but definately ridiculous.
- One of my favorite places of all time is The Dollar Tree. I love stuff, it's true and this store has the most random assortment. I can walk out of there with 3 bags full and a balloon tied around my wrist and Greg can't even yell because I only spent $20.
- I know some of the greatest people in life....Seriously. Some of who I've only met a couple of times out & about while at WCU, but such kind people.
- Bennett is real close to having his first tooth. When it does appear, I will be emotional. Must he grow up?
- Are you still wondering about balloon mentioned above? Come on people..who doesn't love a balloon? And for only 100 pennies, who can pass it up?
- It took me 20 minutes to untangle my hair after my shower today. I only wish I was exaggerating.
- Speaking of hair..They weren't kidding when they said I would lose all my hair after giving birth. I've always been a "shedder". Wearing black with my hair down screams disaster to me, but during my pregnancy my hair stayed put. Must have been all the horomones. Now my hair falls out more than ever..it's a wonder I even have any left on my head.
- I have no idea who "they" are in the above random comment. It just seemed appropriate.
- If I had the money & could hire anyone I wanted, I wouldn't hire someone to clean my toilets. Nope. I'd hire someone to dry and style my hair everyday. The girl that does my hair in AK can dry and style my hair like nobody's business in 10 minutes flat. I'd choose her.
- I love tweezers. Laura Beth is rubbing off on me even still. She picks at her face every.single.night before bed. It doesn't matter how long of a day/night we've had she will still come in, take a shower, sit at her vanity and pick at her face. All of those years of living together and making fun of her..now, I am her. I'd like to have a pair of tweezers in every room/bag.
- I google words to make sure I've spelled them correctly.
- I keep seeing sequined shorts all over the internet this Holiday season and if I don't own a pair soon I might faint. Of course, I did say I wanted to own a pair..not wear them. My body is not "sequin shorts appropriate" after having Bennett. And food for thought, how many people do you think own a pair in Alaska? Or much less, wouldn't look at me like I've lost my marbles if I did wear some. Le sigh...
-I kiss on my son a lot. I wonder if that will be awkward for him when he's 26?
- I am really missing the sweet girls that I coached both in NC and AK. It was such a priviledge to be in their lives and have them in mine. I've said I would never coach again until we make it back to North Carolina permanently...we'll see how long that lasts.
- I used to have a huge fear that I will have a daughter and she will not want to be a cheerleader. Such a silly thought, because as long as she is happy, I will be happy. After having Bennett, this I'm sure.
- I hope people look at the back of our Christmas Cards this year.
- I'm obsessed with my new blog design. Doesn't take much to make my day!
- I absolutely think the happiness of ones marriage is directly related to how often you laugh together.
- I'm working on a "Dear Santa" Christmas post & this year, I'm having a harder time than normal finding things to put on it. Sure, there's lots that I would like to have when I'm out shopping, but once I'm out of the store, I typically forget about them. In order for items to make it on my "shopping" list, they must be unforgettable. I'd rather spend money on Bennett than myself. Welcome to Motherhood, I've been told.
- Amazon saves the day when it comes to buying my son's formula! This hypo-allergenic stuff costs as much as a small car. Joking, but it's expensive! Thank you Subscribe & Save!
- I feel like I should put Bennett on my resume. For he is my biggest accomplishment to date.
- I'm gonna end this post now, but I think I'll include a picture below. No post is fun without a picture. Until next time...
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Month In Review: #7 {October 2011}
Month In Review: #7 {October 2011}
-Attended the Pisgah vs. Tuscola game. Haven't been back to one since I was in school...8 YEARS ago! Good grief, I'm getting old. They were way more fun when I was a cheerleader and enjoyed sleepovers/sign-making/Tuscola bashing.
-Had Bennett's pics made with the amazing Colleen Hannah! She captured some of the most priceless memories..most of which happened with just Bennett and I interacting like we do on a day-to-day basis. Can't wait to hang them in our home!
-Moved into my old room at my parent's house. Rick and Hil have their house up on the market so it was just easier for Bennett and I to come here for the rest of our time in NC. Reading my high school yearbooks and looking at old pics of course came with the territory of moving back in! :)
-Went to P.F. Changs and to see Footloose with the girls. I miss simple nights out like that! Cannot wait to go on a date when my husband gets home!
-Took Bennett to the pumpkin patch! Of course he had no idea what was going on, but we had so much fun! My mom went with me and helped capture the perfect photo-opp. Bennett may or may not have face-planted in the grass trying to get said perfect photo. ;) I'll never tell...
-Celebrated the twins turning TWO! Goodness!
-Attended WCU Homecoming! I've got so many cute pictures of Bennett dressed in his Catamount attire so I'm going to try to do a seperate post on this event one day!
-Enjoyed Abigail's Wedding Celebration! It was such a perfect night...beautiful people, comfy location, yummy food, and sweet friends! {Bennett stayed at home with Nana and slept the night away}
-Watched Benny roll over from back to tummy. He gets a little camera shy when I try to get him to do it when Greg's on Skype. I'll keep trying..Daddy wants to see!
-Went to Landon's Preschool Program...hilarious! Being able to attend an event such as this was so special for me. I knew when Greg decided to go active and we took off to Alaska I would miss so many programs, performances, ballgames, etc. I was so glad to be able to watch him sing his songs, do the arm motions aka: put hands in pockets, and shine that sweet little personality. It also got me thinking about who would be at Bennett's performances. Sometimes his Daddy and I...and sometimes just me. I think some people who live near family take stuff like this for granted...
-Celebrated my sweet Baby turning 4 months old! He is the sweetest thing every time I take him to the doctor! He smiles and giggles and loves it when the nurses and doctor pay attention to him! Such a people person! Shots didn't go so bad either...a few cries when they were happening and some wimpering, but then knocked right out as soon as we got in the car! :)
-Halloweennnnnnn! Sunday evening we had truck-or-treating at my parent's church. Then, Monday, we had trunk-or-treating at Rick and Hil's church and visiting Greg's parents. Landon was a referee, the twins were football players and Bennett was the football! Bennett wasn't in the greatest of moods Monday because of the shots{that was a mean trick Mommy played to schedule his dr appt on Halloween}..he was sooooo sleepy after sleeping the majority of the day! We still had such a great time and got so many cute pics of my little football!
-Bennett had rice cereal for the first time..overall, I think it was a success! No tears were involved and he was happy as a little lark with it smeared all over his face and body. Daddy got to watch on Skype and it was a fun experience! We'll keep trying! :)
On to...NOVEMBER! Wow! Here's what we have coming up:
-"Falling" Backwards and gaining an hour of sleep! Sleep=Good.
-Christmas Shopping. I am SO ridiculous about my shopping list and being organized. I adore marking someone's name off once I've completed their gift. It's the little things in life...
-Thanksgiving! It's no secret I love food.
-Black Friday. I feel as if I could have just put this one item on this list and it would have done the whole month justice. This one day of the year is enough to excite me for months. The thrill..the deals...all of it. Makes.me.so.happy. Makes.my.husband.so.nervous.
-My little boy turning 5 months and starting some Baby Food...Veggies on the menu! :)
Be Blessed!
Friday, October 28, 2011
A Day in the life of Bennett...
I decided I need to write (somewhere where I wouldn't lose it...aka: blog) Bennett's schedule on a typical day. Mostly, for my own good...in hopes that Greg and I will be blessed with more children, but also to give other Moms a look at our day. When I first had Bennett I was obsessed with searching for schedules and talking to my mommy friends about what their baby was doing at a certain age. The best thing that helped me was discussing this stuff with my friends who shared the same life perspective as me. I received tons of advice from people who did not share the same parenting perpective and I apprecitated it, but it was just not helpful for our family! :)
Now, let me also say that I've met many people who never put their baby/child on a routine or schedule. And, if that works for you...perfect! But for me, things just couldn't fly like that. My Type-A personality began itching the day Bennett turned 3 months old! I like to know what to expect (for the most part) and since working with Bennett on certain things, I can tell that he does too! He's not a fan of suprises and changing things up minute by minute! It's working for us...
Bennett's 4 Month Schedule
7:00-8:00am: Wakeup/1st Feeding of 6oz
8:00-9 or 9:30am: Playtime {I usually make myself breakfast and eat it while chatting with Bennett in his bouncer or bumbo, then we play on the mat, tummy time, etc}
9 or 9:30-11:00am: 1st nap {in crib}
11:00am: 2nd Feeding of 6oz
11:30am-1:00pm: Playtime {Skype with Daddy! Bennett usually plays in floor, grabbing toes and rolling, interacting with mommy so daddy can watch}
1:00-3:00pm: 2nd nap {in crib}
3:00pm: 3rd Feeding of 6oz
3:30-5 or 5:30pm: Playtime, Running Errands, Go for a walk, Shopping, Lay on blanket outside, etc
5 or 5:30-6:00pm: Catnap {if home, in crib or mommy's arms...if out, in car seat/stroller}
6:00pm: 4th Feeding of 6oz
6:30-7:30pm: Playtime {Reading books, watching Veggie-Tales or Wiggles, or enjoying being out & about}
7:30-8:00pm: Bathtime! *Start of Bedtime Routine* after bath...Diaper, Warm PJ's, medicine
8:00-8:30pm: Book from Daddy {Depending on how tired Bennett is} Lights off, 5th Feeding of 4oz, Bedtime Music Playlist
8:30pm: Sound Machine on...Kisses, Bennett in crib awake...Sweet Dreams :)
*Repeat*
As always, there are some days that just don't go as planned...and I'm perfectly fine with that! I also am not so strict to "the schedule" that I don't meet my son's needs in a timely fashion. If he wakes up from his nap early, we get up and play. If he's hungry, we eat....tired, we sleep! Most things in our schedule vary by 30minutes here and there. All kinds of things affect our day, but most of the time, they are the exception, not the rule. :) And yes, I'm fully aware that this will change as he grows...I'm ok with that too! Like I said, this is a reference for me down the road in hopes of Baby #2?
And for my own reference, during Bennett's sleet times I...
1st nap: make bottles for day, get myself ready or sometimes treat myself to a nap also, "me time" {computer, workout, tv, etc}
2nd nap: wash bottles, laundry, other household chores, get myself ready if I splurged on a nap earlier...once all that is done..."me time"
Catnap: we are usually out and about..if not, I usually get everything set up for the evening {bath, bedtime, etc}
Bedtime: finish any chores, "me time", talk to Greg! :)
You might also be wondering if I sleep trained Bennett. Yep! Perhaps another post on that and my approach! :) We are a happy home and will be complete when Daddy gets back!
Now, let me also say that I've met many people who never put their baby/child on a routine or schedule. And, if that works for you...perfect! But for me, things just couldn't fly like that. My Type-A personality began itching the day Bennett turned 3 months old! I like to know what to expect (for the most part) and since working with Bennett on certain things, I can tell that he does too! He's not a fan of suprises and changing things up minute by minute! It's working for us...
Bennett's 4 Month Schedule
7:00-8:00am: Wakeup/1st Feeding of 6oz
8:00-9 or 9:30am: Playtime {I usually make myself breakfast and eat it while chatting with Bennett in his bouncer or bumbo, then we play on the mat, tummy time, etc}
9 or 9:30-11:00am: 1st nap {in crib}
11:00am: 2nd Feeding of 6oz
11:30am-1:00pm: Playtime {Skype with Daddy! Bennett usually plays in floor, grabbing toes and rolling, interacting with mommy so daddy can watch}
1:00-3:00pm: 2nd nap {in crib}
3:00pm: 3rd Feeding of 6oz
3:30-5 or 5:30pm: Playtime, Running Errands, Go for a walk, Shopping, Lay on blanket outside, etc
5 or 5:30-6:00pm: Catnap {if home, in crib or mommy's arms...if out, in car seat/stroller}
6:00pm: 4th Feeding of 6oz
6:30-7:30pm: Playtime {Reading books, watching Veggie-Tales or Wiggles, or enjoying being out & about}
7:30-8:00pm: Bathtime! *Start of Bedtime Routine* after bath...Diaper, Warm PJ's, medicine
8:00-8:30pm: Book from Daddy {Depending on how tired Bennett is} Lights off, 5th Feeding of 4oz, Bedtime Music Playlist
8:30pm: Sound Machine on...Kisses, Bennett in crib awake...Sweet Dreams :)
*Repeat*
As always, there are some days that just don't go as planned...and I'm perfectly fine with that! I also am not so strict to "the schedule" that I don't meet my son's needs in a timely fashion. If he wakes up from his nap early, we get up and play. If he's hungry, we eat....tired, we sleep! Most things in our schedule vary by 30minutes here and there. All kinds of things affect our day, but most of the time, they are the exception, not the rule. :) And yes, I'm fully aware that this will change as he grows...I'm ok with that too! Like I said, this is a reference for me down the road in hopes of Baby #2?
And for my own reference, during Bennett's sleet times I...
1st nap: make bottles for day, get myself ready or sometimes treat myself to a nap also, "me time" {computer, workout, tv, etc}
2nd nap: wash bottles, laundry, other household chores, get myself ready if I splurged on a nap earlier...once all that is done..."me time"
Catnap: we are usually out and about..if not, I usually get everything set up for the evening {bath, bedtime, etc}
Bedtime: finish any chores, "me time", talk to Greg! :)
You might also be wondering if I sleep trained Bennett. Yep! Perhaps another post on that and my approach! :) We are a happy home and will be complete when Daddy gets back!
photo by Colleen Hannah Photography :)
Thursday, October 27, 2011
I want you to know...
As I was driving home last night from Greg's parents house I saw my sweet little boy in the backseat and started thinking of so many things I want him to know in life. I tend to get the most emotional when I'm driving around and transporting the most precious cargo! Perhaps I will let him read this blog when gets older..or maybe I'll leave it for him after I'm long and gone. Either way, it's an amazing journal for me. So, on his 4 month birthday...
"Dear Bennett,
I want you to know...
...that you are LOVED! God loves you more than you can imagine...you are his child and your daddy and I just get the gift of raising you! Your mommy and daddy honestly couldn't love you anymore than we do. There are many times, Bennett, where I feel like my heart is going to explode with all of the love I have for you in there! That will never change.
...that you are SPECIAL. There is only one you, Bennett, so be proud of who you are. Your quirks and flaws make you into the most special Bennett W. and I hope you stay true to yourself. God knew the hairs on your head long before you were born...I hope you find your identity in Him!
...that your daddy is a HERO. I know you are too young to understand this now at only 4 months old, but your daddy is such a remarkable man. I look forward to the day when you understand his sacrifices for our country and family. I am soooo thankful that you have such an amazing example to learn from. No matter what the problem or issue in your life, I hope you turn to your Heavenly Father first for help, then your Earthly Father second. With both of them on your side, you are destined to grow up a hero yourself.
...that you were WORTH the wait. Your daddy and I wanted you for so long! We waited and waited on God's perfect timing to bring us a child. When He gave us you in His timing, we were beyond thankful. I would wait another million years just to have the chance to hold you. You are more than anything I could ever dream of.
...that we will ALWAYS BE THERE. Your daddy and I have talked so many times about how we would want to parent our children. The most important thing for us both is that you always know, no matter what, we will be there for you. You are going to make mistakes, for those are what will make you the man you are to become. We want you to know that you can talk to us about anything...we will never make you feel bad about your choices, but instead help lead you in the right direction. I know you will go through stages where we aren't "cool" to hang out with..but forever and always, we'll be waiting for you. As your mommy, I also promise that I will be at EVERY big event in your life as long as I am healthy enough. From graduations, school performances, awards banquets, wedding, and birth of your children. If you want me there, Bennett, I will be your biggest cheerleader, no matter how far the distance from me to you.
...that God has a special lady for you to MARRY. Please, please, please...don't rush or settle. God knew long before you were born, who you will spend your life with. We hope that you wait for her..and we also hope that you treat her as well as your Daddy treats me.
...that everyone is SPECIAL. Just as I have told you that you are...so is everyone else you meet in life. I hope you have a kind heart towards others. The greatest thing you can do for someone is encourage them. When someone says they are having a bad day or feeling down, I hope you take the time to lift them up. It's the small things we do that make the biggest difference in someone's life...
I'll love you forever, my Bennett Boy.
-Mommy"
"Dear Bennett,
I want you to know...
...that you are LOVED! God loves you more than you can imagine...you are his child and your daddy and I just get the gift of raising you! Your mommy and daddy honestly couldn't love you anymore than we do. There are many times, Bennett, where I feel like my heart is going to explode with all of the love I have for you in there! That will never change.
...that you are SPECIAL. There is only one you, Bennett, so be proud of who you are. Your quirks and flaws make you into the most special Bennett W. and I hope you stay true to yourself. God knew the hairs on your head long before you were born...I hope you find your identity in Him!
...that your daddy is a HERO. I know you are too young to understand this now at only 4 months old, but your daddy is such a remarkable man. I look forward to the day when you understand his sacrifices for our country and family. I am soooo thankful that you have such an amazing example to learn from. No matter what the problem or issue in your life, I hope you turn to your Heavenly Father first for help, then your Earthly Father second. With both of them on your side, you are destined to grow up a hero yourself.
...that you were WORTH the wait. Your daddy and I wanted you for so long! We waited and waited on God's perfect timing to bring us a child. When He gave us you in His timing, we were beyond thankful. I would wait another million years just to have the chance to hold you. You are more than anything I could ever dream of.
...that we will ALWAYS BE THERE. Your daddy and I have talked so many times about how we would want to parent our children. The most important thing for us both is that you always know, no matter what, we will be there for you. You are going to make mistakes, for those are what will make you the man you are to become. We want you to know that you can talk to us about anything...we will never make you feel bad about your choices, but instead help lead you in the right direction. I know you will go through stages where we aren't "cool" to hang out with..but forever and always, we'll be waiting for you. As your mommy, I also promise that I will be at EVERY big event in your life as long as I am healthy enough. From graduations, school performances, awards banquets, wedding, and birth of your children. If you want me there, Bennett, I will be your biggest cheerleader, no matter how far the distance from me to you.
...that God has a special lady for you to MARRY. Please, please, please...don't rush or settle. God knew long before you were born, who you will spend your life with. We hope that you wait for her..and we also hope that you treat her as well as your Daddy treats me.
...that everyone is SPECIAL. Just as I have told you that you are...so is everyone else you meet in life. I hope you have a kind heart towards others. The greatest thing you can do for someone is encourage them. When someone says they are having a bad day or feeling down, I hope you take the time to lift them up. It's the small things we do that make the biggest difference in someone's life...
I'll love you forever, my Bennett Boy.
-Mommy"
{photo by Colleen Hannah Photography}
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