BG :: Life and Design

40 Weeks :: DUE DATE

2012-02-02T13:08:00.000-08:00

So, uh, I made it. 40 weeks of pregnancy. Wow. Now, ironically, all I can think to write is GET THIS BABY OUT OF ME.

I had an appointment this morning where he checked the fluid around baby, did a non-stress test and checked my cervix. I'm still only dilated 1-2 cm and my cervix is waaay up there. Which is discouraging. I go back on Monday for another non-stress test {hopefully I don't make it} and we scheduled the induction for Thursday, February 9th at 6 a.m. {hopefully we definitely don't make it to that}. But it's nice to have an end date.

How far along? 40 weeks! Fully cooked!
Size of baby: About 7.5 pounds.
Total weight gain/loss: +27. That's enough.
Stretch marks? No. How the hell did I escape without one? I guess I still have a chance.
Sleep: Shitttttttyyyy.
Best moment this week: Walks with Tyler and the pups. I have so enjoyed the awesome weather that's allowed me to walk a lot.
Worst moment this week: Finding out I suck at being dilated. LET'S GO, HARRISON.
Movement: Still a mover.
Food cravings: Milkshakes. Nom.
Sex: All male.
Labor Signs: Contractions but nothing super painful. Dilated 1-2 cm. Aaaaand 40 WEEKS!
Belly Button in or out? In.
What I miss: See every other pregnancy post. They all apply at this point.
What I am looking forward to: This hopefully being my last pregnancy post? HA. Meeting him. Finally.
Weekly Wisdom: Getting your cervix check freaking hurts. Not sure if I mentioned that before, but holy shit. Ow.
Milestones: 40 WEEKS!!!

Currently.

2012-01-30T03:00:00.000-08:00

loving my little family and the fact that it's about to grow by one very, very soon.

reading Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close. it's incredibly good and extremely heartbreaking.

anticipating the birth of our little squishy. I JUST WANT TO MEET HIM ALREADY.

missing my body {not that I was in great shape before pregnancy}, I just want to be able to move again.

trying to relax and take little moments for myself throughout the day.

creating a human. my toughest creation yet. ;)

enjoying afternoon walks with the dogs. this fabulous weather. waiting for baby boy. so many things.

annoyed with uber-religious rants, just because I don't agree with you doesn't make me less than you.

wondering if I will sleep tonight. if the past three nights are any indicator, the answer is a big fat no.

I wish I could sum up all of my feelings currently in just a few sentences. Truth is I am such a big ball of emotions, I find myself so excited one second and completely terrified the next. I'm sure Tyler is getting so tired of hearing, "TYLER. WE ARE GOING TO HAVE A CHILD SOON." I say it at least a dozen times a day. But it's true, we will go from non-parents to parents so quickly {fingers crossed that it's quickly} and our lives will be redefined forever.

Quickly. Redefined. Forever. Big words, lots of meaning. I've spent my days soaking this all in.

Spending the majority of my days alone lately has allowed for so much reflection. And thinking, a lot of thinking. The thought of going through labor is still extremely scary. I honestly doubt that I'm strong enough. I guess we'll find out soon enough. Everyone tells me I'll forget about the pain the minute he's put in to my arms...I'll believe that when it happens. Everyone says our lives are going to change completely...this I believe and I don't know if I'm ready. Everyone says things will be better than they ever were before...this I believe wholeheartedly.

I find myself going in to the nursery, realizing there's nothing left to add except the little bean so I just sit and stare. That's probably the hardest part, everything I can possibly do is done...it's out of my hands now. This is certainly a lesson in patience and learning to let go for me.

Regardless, this thing is about to go down and whether it's beautiful or scary I know that I will love Harrison with more than I have ever known I was capable of loving. And that is the feeling I'm looking forward to the most.

39 Weeks :: Getting down to the wire

2012-01-26T13:03:00.000-08:00

Everyone keeps telling me I've dropped. I feel it, but I don't see it. We had an ultrasound on Monday after I had been measuring small. Our doctor just wanted to make sure the little man was growing ok. We were definitely freaked out but it turns out his head is just waaay down there and he's estimated at a healthy 7.4 pounds. What a relief. :) It was cool to see the 3D image of him...we saw his lips and little nose but the cord was skewing the rest of his face. So incredible.

I'm 1 cm dilated but my cervix is still facing slightly down. Apparently contractions are supposed to put it in to position but I haven't had many so the doctor thinks I'm going over my due date. Lame.

How far along? 39 weeks!!!!
Size of baby: About 7.4 pounds...but that could mean a pound in either direction I guess. We shall see. Soon-ish. Hopefully. Ha.
Total weight gain/loss: +26
Stretch marks? Still no and I can't believe it.
Sleep: Baaaah. Not great. Up to pee A LOT and super uncomfortable. Plus my body pillow is getting flatter, which doesn't help.
Best moment this week: Seeing him on the ultrasound. :)
Worst moment this week: Just the all around uncomfortable feeling, having to change positions constantly. I just keep thinking that in less than 2 weeks he'll be here.
Movement: Lots of rolling around.
Food cravings: Finally got my Thai fill...the spiciness did nothing to send me in to labor.
Sex: Boy!
Labor Signs: A few contractions but nothing consistent or super painful.
Belly Button in or out? The top is poking out a bit. So awkward.
What I miss: Moving around freely!
What I am looking forward to: Meeting him of course.
Weekly Wisdom: Hang strong...almost there...
Milestones: A WEEK FROM MY MOTHER FREAKING DUE DATE. I honestly have been feeling like I'm going to be pregnant forever.

Harrison's Nursery :: Stuff & Organization

2012-01-25T03:00:00.000-08:00

Wow! Thank you all for the love on Harrison's nursery reveal. We had so much fun putting it together. And I forgot but a BIG THANK YOU to Tyler who did a FABULOUS job not only painting the amazing horizontal stripes but staying patient when I changed my mind 48539 times. :)

I wanted to answer a few questions that came up about our where we got things and our organization, as we attempt to fit all of his baby things in our tiny room.

STUFF

Crib - K-Mart
Crib sheet - Target
Crib skirt - Etsy (Mellissa's Boutique and fun fact: she designed Tori Spellings most recent nursery bedding, cool huh?)
Prints - Me :)
'H' - Etsy (Say It With Letters)
Diaper Bag - Target (gift)
Blanket - Etsy (Baby Beulah)

Dresser - Yard sale way back in the day, painted
Frames - K-Mart, painted
Chuck T's: - Gift
Polka Dot Storage - Etsy (BaffinBags)

Glider and Ottoman - JC Penney (gift)
Diaper Dekor Plus - Buy Buy Baby (gift)
Boppy breastfeeding pillow - Target (gift)
Side table - Ikea, painted
Frames - K-Mart, painted
Poms - Etsy (Pretty With Sprinkles)

Wiener decal - Etsy (paintlessdecoimpress)
Bumbo - Target (gift)
Stroller - Target (gift)

ORGANIZATION
Like I said before, we had to be smart with our small space. So we stocked up on bins and made sure we had built in storage where we could--with the crib, dresser and utilizing the most out of the half of the closet we were using. (The other side is filled with the pack and play, car seat, and other random things like my wedding dress--haha).

THE CLOSET: I organized his clothes by size. I just made these organizers out of card stock and made them sort of boy-ish with the wiener dog and mustaches.

The closet filled up quickly. I used my old shoe organizer (after cleaning it thoroughly) for receiving blankets and regular blankets. Then I used these wire cubes that I've had since I lived in the dorms for his shoes and bumbo, Moby Wrap and car seat cover. I also think it will be handy to have easy access to the stroller right next to it.

THE DRESSER: For all of his other clothes, I organized each dresser drawer by size. I have no idea if this is the best way, it just made the most sense to me. Then I'll just rotate out and up as time goes on and he grows out of things.

THE CRIB: I LOVE our crib for many reasons but mostly because it has an attached changing table and TONS of storage. Not only the three drawers in the front but the back side has shelves that are great for hiding breastfeeding supplies and such.

Who knows if all of this is the best way to set up the nursery, I'm no expert. It just makes the most sense to me now. We'll see how much of it gets changed around. :)

Harrison's Nursery Reveal

2012-01-24T10:47:00.000-08:00

Well it's been a long time coming but I finally have pictures of Harrison's yellow, blue and gray wiener dog nursery! There are still a few missing details (the wiener dog lamp that I've been coveting and a diy chalkboard that isn't quite finished) but it's definitely ready for his arrival!

We had a small space to work with so we had to make sure we had a lot of storage. This crib was perfect for us and Tyler found it on sale so we got a great deal...yep, this is the on he bought when I was 6 weeks pregnant. Ha!

Until baby boy arrives and we have pictures of him to fill our frames, I decided to display our baby shower invites. :)

I am so in love with our glider, it is literally the most comfortable thing. I can envision many-a-night I'll be sitting in that thing nursing Harrison...with all of my supplies within arm's reach.

That's it! Harrison's room. Can't wait until he gets here!

38 Weeks :: Maternity leave and finishing the nursery

2012-01-19T09:35:00.000-08:00

Today is my last day of week before maternity leave. Besides running around like a crazy person making sure everything is ready for the temp, I'm ready to just focus on baby and my body and making sure everything is in order at home. Things are about to get crazy up in here. In a good way, of course. :)

How far along? 38 weeks!
Size of baby:A WATERMELON. I'M GOING TO BIRTH A WATERMELON. How's that for a visual?
Total weight gain/loss: +25ish. Have to get on that scale at the doctor's tomorrow.
Stretch marks? Still no and I couldn't be more thrilled.
Sleep: Ehhhhhhh... could be worse I suppose.
Best moment this week: Last day of work :) Nursery is 99% finished.
Worst moment this week: A few backaches from overdoing it.
Movement: Still a mover. He definitely favors the right side, making it hard to get comfortable on my end sometimes.
Food cravings: Just thai food but waiting to have something super spicy and hopefully induce labor in about a week. Yeah, we'll see.
Sex: Boy!
Labor Signs: A few BH contractions. Crossing my fingers that I'm a little dilated tomorrow!
Belly Button in or out? In. Barely. My belly button has never been cleaner.
What I miss: SUSHI AND WINE. Which is all I've asked for for my birthday on the 16th.
What I am looking forward to: Meeting the little guy.
Weekly Wisdom: I'm all out of wisdom. At this point you pretty much feel like a pro, right? HA.
Milestones: One week closer. :)

Nursery reveal is coming next week! I'm so excited to share! :)

What I've been reading

2012-01-17T14:04:00.000-08:00

2012 reading has started off with a bang. So far I've read 4 books and I'm about halfway through with my 5th. I can attribute most of this to spending the majority of my downtime on my ass, but I've really made it a point to read at least some every single day, too.

When She Woke by Hillary Jordan
Date finished: January 1, 2012
Rating: 4 stars
From Goodreads:
I am red now. It was her first thought of the day, every day, surfacing after a few seconds of fogged, blessed ignorance and sweeping through her like a wave, breaking in her breast with a soundless roar. Hard on its heels came the second wave, crashing into the wreckage left by the first: he is gone.

My review:
Absolutely loved this book. I'm kind of a dystopian/utopian fiction junkie as it is and this book did not disappoint. It's a little bit of everything touching on issues such as a woman's right to choose, the justice system, religion and it's even a love story too--albeit a dysfunctional one.

Gathering Blue by Lois Lowry
Date finished: January 4, 2012
Rating: 2 stars
From Goodreads:
In her strongest work to date, Lois Lowry once again creates a mysterious but plausible future world. It is a society ruled by savagery and deceit that shuns and discards the weak. Left orphaned and physically flawed, young Kira faces a frightening, uncertain future. Blessed with an almost magical talent that keeps her alive, she struggles with ever broadening responsibilities in her quest for truth, discovering things that will change her life forever.

My review:
I loved The Giver when I first read it in 5th grade, so much so that I've re-read it at least 3 times. I have no idea how I just learned that The Giver was part of a series! I think this book had potential but I had a hard time connecting with the main character, Kira. I'm not sure what the problem was. I think I was expecting more of a tie-in to the first book but it has absolutely nothing to do with The Giver.

Messenger by Lois Lowry
Date finished: January 9, 2012
Rating: 3 stars
From Goodreads:
For the past six years, Matty has lived in Village and flourished under the guidance of Seer, a blind man, known for his special sight. Village was a place that welcomed newcomers, but something sinister has seeped into Village and the people have voted to close it to outsiders. Matty has been invaluable as a messenger. Now he must make one last journey through the treacherous forest with his only weapon, a power he unexpectedly discovers within himself.

My review:
Loved and connected with the main character, Matty so much more than Kira in Gathering Blue. I was also really excited to learn the role of Jonas, from The Giver, in Messenger. No spoilers, but I actually really liked the ending of this book-unexpected and not cliche.

Feed by Mira Grant
Date finished: January 11, 2012
Rating: 4 stars
From Goodreads:
In 2014, two experimental viruses—a genetically engineered flu strain designed by Dr. Alexander Kellis, intended to act as a cure for the common cold, and a cancer-killing strain of Marburg, known as "Marburg Amberlee"—escaped the lab and combined to form a single airborne pathogen that swept around the world in a matter of days. It cured cancer. It stopped a thousand cold and flu viruses in their tracks.

It raised the dead.

Millions died in the chaos that followed. The summer of 2014 was dubbed "The Rising," and only the lessons learned from a thousand zombie movies allowed mankind to survive. Even then, the world was changed forever. The mainstream media fell, Internet news acquired an undeniable new legitimacy, and the CDC rose to a new level of power.

Set twenty years after the Rising, the Newsflesh trilogy follows a team of bloggers, led by Georgia and Shaun Mason, as they search for the brutal truths behind the infection. Danger, deceit, and betrayal lurk around every corner, as does the hardest question of them all:

When will you rise?

My review:
Disclaimer: I am terrified of zombies. But I still loved this book.

In all actuality this book has little to do with zombies. It has elements of political satire, conspiracy, comedy and horror. The characters are extremely likeable, smart and witty. I especially enjoyed the world that Mira Grant created--from the explanation of the outbreak, the rising and the way the world responded. Very interesting. And, I'm not ashamed to admit, I teared up more than once during this book--how's that for a zombie book?!

37 Weeks :: FULL TERM, YO

2012-01-12T09:43:00.000-08:00

So here I am, a grown baby that could survive and thrive on the outside {whoa, hello poet}hanging out in my uterus. It's been a fun ride but I'm ready to meet the little dude.

How far along? 37 weeks!!!
Size of baby: A freaking watermelon.
Total weight gain/loss: +24.
Stretch marks? No. Feeling incredibly lucky.
Sleep: Terrible. Just so uncomfortable but I guess I'd be doing it wrong at this point if I wasn't.
Best moment this week: Well, I'm down to just 3 days of work left. So that's exciting.
Worst moment this week: Not dilated at all according to my appointment Monday. Also, getting your cervix checked freaking hurts.
Movement: Still a mobile little boy. But he's still head down so I don't think he's able to maneuver too much.
Food cravings: Thai. But I'm holding out until next week to have some spicy Pad Se Ew...ya know, to try and naturally induce. ;)
Sex: Oh, boy!
Labor Signs: Just some BH contractions.
Belly Button in or out? Still in and holding strong! We just might make it! Haha
What I miss: At this point, I just want my body back. Ha.
What I am looking forward to: Meeting Harrison. I am getting so anxious.
Weekly Wisdom: Just keep swimming.
Milestones: FULL TERM! Crazy.

36 Weeks :: Feeling like a whale

2012-01-05T11:29:00.000-08:00

Whoaaa momma. We're in the final stretch. Besides feeling like a beached whale most of the time, I'm feeling pretty ok. Obviously, there's the typical sore hips, karate chops to the bladder and the usual things but I think knowing that those things will all be going away soon are making them tolerable.

How far along? 36 weeks!
Size of baby: Still the damn honeydew. I'm not putting a picture of it this time. We all get it. But Harrison could actually be weighing close to 6 pounds! Holy guacamole.
Total weight gain/loss: +20
Stretch marks? I had a panic attack Tuesday morning when I saw one on my stomach. But when I checked it again a few hours later it was gone. Sleep marks, for the win!
Sleep: Hit or miss. It's just physically impossible to get comfortable...and when I do, that's when I have to pee.
Best moment this week: The nursery is pretty much done!!!!! Pictures coming very soon after a few last little things. Also, my boss told me I don't even look pregnant from the back and that just made my day.
Worst moment this week: Oh, just a minor breakdown about how I've been too stressed and crying too much over the course of my pregnancy...so Harrison is definitely going to come out stressed out and crying 24/7. I can't wait to have my grip on reality back.
Movement: It's changed. It's more rolling movements that are really strong as opposed to jabs and kicks. I prefer these but the way he makes my belly look kind of freaks Tyler out.
Food cravings: Nothing in particular (except cereal...yes STILL). I could go for some Thai right now though.
Sex: Boy!
Labor Signs: Nope. Good. Let's let him cook a bit longer.
Belly Button in or out? In. Much to my surprise.
What I miss: My regular clothes. Sleep. Not having to heave myself off the couch.
What I am looking forward to: Meeting the little guy. :)
Weekly Wisdom: Just keep swimming.
Milestones: Being able to tell people I'm due on "the 2nd" instead of saying February 2nd. CRAZY.

2011, in retrospect

2011-12-30T03:00:00.000-08:00

What a crazy, unpredictable, eventful year it has been. I can't believe 2011 is over and we're about to embark on what is sure to be one of the most challenging and rewarding years of our lives.

JANUARY
I began the year not being able to believe it was 2011. The years seem to fly by faster as I get older. We were still newlyweds and just spent our time enjoying each other. We posed with the world series trophy and had (what would be my last for awhile) drunk fest at Candlestick Park for the 49ers game. I aired my social pet peeves. I learned a lot about myself...like my inability to follow through. But I also learned that sometimes I accidentally succeed...sort of.

FEBRUARY
I really started to focus on my business. Brittany Garner Design really started to take off as I was finally able to devote more time to PR and marketing. And the other thing? I really, really enjoy it. This work seriously makes me so happy and I feel lucky I have the time and support to do it. Plus, it makes me feel like my degree isn't a complete waste of money. :) I revealed the whole truth about how Tyler and I met. We celebrated our sixth Valentine's Day together. I turned 24 this month. A quarter-life crisis ensued.

MARCH
I blogged about our mini-moon, just five months later. We started looking in to buying a home but never pulled the trigger and were so glad we didn't when we got some big news 'round about the beginning of June. :) Adult sprint break in Reno was a blast. I settled the Twilight vs. Hunger Games debate. I shared my top 5 places I'm still dying to visit.

APRIL
Instagram came in to my life this month and you all were suddenly subjected to more photos of my life on the regular. Sorry? ;) If Lucy were able to read, she would be embarrassed by this video I posted. We feasted on sushi as a late birthday dinner with my closest friends. We enjoyed springtime in the 530. Seriously the most beautiful weather with a ton of outdoor activities. Why did I ever want to move? Another trip to Reno to celebrate a 21st birthday.

MAY
I reflected on blogging and still stand by every single word. Tyler and I attended the annual Margarita Mix-off and had SO MUCH FUN. The name of the blog changed...it's been a long road.

JUNE
THIS WAS A HUGE MONTH. I took that little pregnancy test on June 1st and we found out we were going to be parents. Of course, I couldn't share it on the blog right away but I still wrote about it then back-posted when we did announce. :) Pregnancy posts: 5 weeks, 6 weeks, 7 weeks, 9 weeks. I condemned jorts this month as well, it needed to be done.

JULY
I was still keeping hush hush about the pregnancy and since that was the only thing on my mind, I really didn't have anything else to write about. Plus, I pretty much because a recluse because I was sleeping all the time. Pregnancy posts: 10 weeks, 11 weeks, 12 weeks, 13 weeks. But! We finally did let the cat out of the bag and I felt oh so relieved. I hate keeping secrets! Tyler celebrated his 25th birthday!

AUGUST
We moved this month...up out the ghetto as I describe to people. Pregnancy posts: 14 weeks, 15 weeks, 16 weeks, 17 weeks. I started to get serious about something really serious...nursery design. HA! No, but I had so much fun narrowing down ideas for the nursery...and this was before we knew the sex of baby Garner.

SEPTEMBER
Pregnancy is still (and will stay) the number one thing in my life. I mean, how could it not? Pregnancy posts: 18 weeks, 19 weeks, 20 weeks, 21 weeks, 22 weeks. We found out the sex of baby Garner and even decided on a name. The fact that we are going to be parents really started to sink in...along with the panic/excitement. At some point during the month we registered for baby things and holy-waste-of-time. I ended up changing/adjusting everything online afterward anyway. Also, nursery planning started to get serious.

OCTOBER
I found it incredibly psychotic that a year ago (as in October 2010) was the beginning of our wedding month filled with a bachelorette party in Vegas, our amazing wedding and a lovely mini-moon that I will remember forever. But October 2011? A whole lot more low key, to say the least. But I did finally recap the wedding! Only one year later...gimme a break. Pregnancy posts: 23 weeks, 24 weeks, 25 weeks, 26 weeks. We celebrated our one year wedding anniversary, well...sorta. Also, if you don't want to be a douchebag driver, read this.

NOVEMBER
Work on the nursery continued...and the to do list expanded. Pregnancy posts: 27 weeks, 28 weeks, 29 weeks, 30 weeks. We celebrated baby Harrison twice with two baby showers this month. I felt so incredibly loved and I know the little one is already loved as well. I am so thankful for my wonderful family and friends who made both days so special. This was the biggest month in Brittany Garner Design history, made me so excited!

DECEMBER
I started to slow down a lot this month. Although the nursery is almost finished and all we had left to do was wait for baby H. Pregnancy posts: 31 weeks, 32 weeks, 33 weeks, 34 weeks, 35 weeks. We had a wonderful Christmas with my family.

It was quite a year! It only makes me super excited for what 2012 has in store for us. Adios, 2011!

35 Weeks :: The head is down and we're going broke from cereal purchases

2011-12-29T16:23:00.000-08:00

How far along? 35 weeks!
Size of baby: Still a melon, albeit a large melon.
Total weight gain/loss: +20. TWENTY. Good god.
Stretch marks? Still no.
Sleep: It's a bitch getting comfortable but once I'm asleep I'm able to stay asleep and that's all I want.
Best moment this week: Baby HG is head down! And I'm not dilated at all, so that's good news. He needs to cook a little longer.
Worst moment this week: I guess just the fatigue and the sore hips. I just feel tired all the freaking time.
Movement: Still doing karate in there. :)
Food cravings: A lot of Cracklin' Oat Bran cereal and hopefully this craving doesn't last too much longer, do you know how expensive this stuff is? Plus it's a little bitty box. But it's soooo good.
Sex: Boy boy boy.
Labor Signs: Nope. But my doctor said if I went in to labor at this point, he wouldn't try to stop it. So...holy shit.
Belly Button in or out? Holding strong, in.
What I miss: Having energy.
What I am looking forward to: Meeting him :) I just want him to be here.
Weekly Wisdom: Getting checked for dilation hurts.
Milestones: Hitting that point where he could be here anytime but it's so frustrating not knowing exactly when. Also, I kind of just want this baby out of me.

2011 Reads

2011-12-29T03:00:00.000-08:00

Total books read in 2011: 26
I started out the year on a roll with my reading but toward the end, I slowed way down. Just got busy with life and wasn't in the mood to read in general. But I think I will be a reading machine in 2012 as I have 5 months of maternity leave to look forward to. :)

She's Having A Baby - and I'm Having a Breakdown by James Douglas Barron

I got this book for Tyler not long after we found out we were expecting and I read it before him. Ha. Really good information and an easy read.

From the Hips by Rebecca Odes, Ceridwen Morris

Lots of information but I like the way the book is set up and it's pleasant to look at.

What to Expect When You're Expecting by Heidi Murkoff, Sharon Mazel
Pretty much the scariest book I've ever read. So much information and SO MUCH SCARY INFORMATION. But, it is informative.

Bossypants by Tina Fey
For some reason, it took me a long time to get through this one but not because I didn't like it. I laughed out loud a lot. Plus, this book has my vote for the best book cover of 2011.

The Secret Life of CeeCee Wilkes by Diane Chamberlain
This was ok. A little far fetched and reaching for my taste but it obviously kept my interest long enough to finish.

Dead in the Family by Charlaine Harris
These are all out of order but I did read them in order. I love True Blood and loved the books equally as much. They are a fun, trashy, easy read.

All Together Dead by Charlaine Harris

Definitely Dead by Charlaine Harris

Dead As A Doornail by Charlaine Harris

Dead to the World by Charlaine Harris

Divergent by Veronica Roth
Loved this book. I was having a bit of a Hunger Games hangover after I finished that series and Divergent is almost as good! I can't wait until the next book in the series comes out.

Belly Laughs by Jenny McCarthy
This was the first pregnancy book I read all the way through. HILARIOUS. Super easy read.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows by J.K. Rowling
Re-read this bad boy right before the movie came out. Needed a refresher. :)

Bad Girls Don't Die by Katie Alender
Pretty dumb. Don't waste your time.

Shadowfever by Karen Marie Moning
These are also out of order but I, surprisingly, really enjoyed the Fever Series. This is so not my style of book but I couldn't put these down.

Dreamfever by Karen Marie Moning

Faefever by Karen Marie Moning

Bloodfever by Karen Marie Moning

Darkfever by Karen Marie Moning

Mockingjay by Suzanne Collins
OBSESSED.

Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins
LOVED.

The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins
What can I say that hasn't been said? These books are thrilling, heart-racing and kept me interested from the very first page. I read all three books in a weekend, SO GOOD.

Water For Elephants by Sara Gruen
This was the first book I read on my Kindle. :) Loved this story and the characters.

Club Dead by Charlaine Harris
More Sookie.

Living Dead in Dallas by Charlaine Harris

Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris

Goal for books read in 2012: 40

Suggestions for books I should read in 2012? Leave them in the comments! :)

Merry Christmas to all!

2011-12-23T03:00:00.000-08:00

34 Weeks :: I have an awkward belly button

2011-12-22T06:00:00.000-08:00

How far along? 34 wiggity weeks.
Size of baby: He's a big boy. Honestly, I don't know that. I'm just judging by the way he plays kickball with my internal organs.
Total weight gain/loss: +18
Stretch marks? Still holding strong. Keep it up, skin!
Sleep: Good as soon as I can get comfortable. It can take me as long as an hour to settle in and find a good spot but then I pretty much sleep through the night (sans the minimum 2 potty breaks that I sleepwalk through).
Best moment this week: We had our childbirth class over the weekend. It was very informative (read: scary) and we learned a lot (read: we're overwhelmed) but I think we are ready to breathe and make our way through this impending labor. Well, Tyler is. The jury is still out on me.
Worst moment this week: We had our childbirth class over the weekend. One girl in it made me realize that there is a whole group of people in the world (who I have so far been able to avoid) who are going to annoy the living shit out of me. That group? Know-it-all-moms...just shut up already. Also? I've been getting extremely overheated these past few days. No likey.
Movement: A lot still. But I think he is definitely head down because that pressure on my bladder is getting more and more intense. But good news is, he's head down!
Food cravings: Same ol' things.
Sex: Little man.
Labor Signs: Negative.

Belly Button in or out? Still in, but awkwardly misshapen.
What I miss: I really, really, really just want some sushi.
What I am looking forward to: Getting the nursery completely finished. Christmas. Family time off. 11 days off of work that started today. :)
Weekly Wisdom: As overwhelming as the childbirth class was, it really was beneficial.
Milestones: Baby head down! Woo!

33 Weeks :: A honeydew!

2011-12-15T09:55:00.000-08:00

The big 3-3. Somehow I never imagined being at this point, being this pregnant. My daydreams at say, 20 weeks, were of holding a newborn baby and thinking about all of the sleep I would not be getting. Somehow I skipped right on over the fact that at some point I was going to feel so pregnant that I might pop. Or I feel so crowded within my own body that getting comfortable is slipping farther and farther from my grasp. So here I am. Seven weeks to go and standing on that line of pregnancy is great and get this baby outta me. :)

How far along? 33 weeks!
Size of baby: A honeydew! Finally a new fruit!
Total weight gain/loss:On Monday I was still holding steady at +17.
Stretch marks? No.
Sleep: Hit or miss. Some nights are really great and others I wake up 57 times to either pee or stare at the ceiling.
Best moment this week: There's a few. Hanging up little clothes in the nursery. Friendly people asking when I'm due and if it's a boy or girl. Grandma and Grandpa getting more and more excited about little H's arrival. :)
Worst moment this week: Waking up at 4 a.m. a couple of days ago. I was the crankiest I've ever been for the rest of that day. Also, the worst heartburn EVER the other night but thanks to twitter friends, warm water and baking soda works WONDERS.
Movement: Harrison is a little kicker. Especially when I'm laying on my left side. I love feeling the outline of a little hand or foot and trying to guess what it is.
Food cravings: Still much of the same stuff. Cereal, quesadillas, bread.
Sex: Little boy!
Labor Signs: Nope.
Belly Button in or out? In.
What I miss: Not bumping in to things with the belly. Breathing. Are these getting repetitive?
What I am looking forward to: Christmas. :)
Weekly Wisdom: I think I've figured out what I'm doing wrong on the days I'm super uncomfortable - overeating.
Milestones: I feel like, at this point, every week is a milestone...THE BIG DAY IS SO CLOSE.

Nursery Update

2011-12-09T03:00:00.000-08:00

Things are coming right along in the nursery! It makes me so happy just to walk in and look at all of his things and imagine a little inhabitant amongst them.

TO DO LIST UPDATE

Pre To Do List :: ~~Sell mattress, treadmill and futon that are currently taking up room in the nursery. Might result to donating these by mid-week.~~

To Do List ::

~~Get paint~~. Check!
~~Paint walls gray.~~ Check!
~~Paint and get new hardware for dresser. Planning to paint it yellow with crystal (clear) hardware. {Using this for help.}~~ Check!
~~DIY horizontal stripe curtains. Want the stripes to be the same color as the dresser. (Help. And more help.}~~ Thinking I might just do white...more stripes might be too much now that I'm able to look at the space.
~~Put crib together.~~ Check!
~~DIY poms. In turquoise. (Help.)~~ Check! Ended up ordering them from Pretty With Sprinkles Etsy shop.
~~Create some art for the walls and such. {ideas so far include: Alphabet print, H is for...Print, Birth date print, framed sonogram, framed picture of mom and dad}~~ I've got plenty to choose from, now I just need to narrow it down.
~~Paint side table. Probably yellow as well~~. Check!
~~Paint frames. K-Mart was having a huge sale and I got a shit-ton of frames for super cheap. Now I can paint them to match the color scheme.~~ Check!
~~Order glider. A gift from Tyler's grandparents, now we just need to pick one out!~~ Check! Was delivered on Wednesday!!

New Additions to the To Do List ::

Organize closet {hang clothes, figure out where to put things, etc.}
Organize dresser drawers {where the hell do I put things?!}
Make final decisions on art work.

To Buy List ::

~~Ikea bookshelf.~~
~~Gray~~ Yellow area rug.
~~Giraffe Art Print.~~
Wiener lamp. In ~~blue~~ white.
~~Amazingly adorable elephant hamper~~.
~~Assortment of different size frames that I can paint yellow and turquoise~~.
~~Turquoise throw pillows of some sort~~.
~~"H" for above the crib~~. From Etsy seller Say It With Letters.
~~Bedding.~~ Ordered a custom crib skirt from Etsy seller Mellissa's Boutique. Going to pair it with yellow sheets and forgo the crib bumper.
Wall shelves. Going with this space saver.

Look at that progress! God it feels good to check things off.

crib assembly with the Mr. and Father

Dad painting the stripes...wearing Mom's glasses

Sometimes...after work...the dogs and I like to just hang out in the nursery

Our goal is to have everything finished by the end of the year. :) I can't wait to share pictures of the whole thing, but in the mean time here is a sneak peek...

32 Weeks :: 8 to go...

2011-12-08T09:43:00.001-08:00

I think the puffy face really accentuates the fact that I feel like I'm about to pop. I weigh more than I have ever weighed in my life and I'm not going to lie, stepping on the scale is a little scary. But! I know it's all for a good cause so I'm more than ok with it, I'm just not accustomed to carrying around this much extra weight...and I'm hurting. My joints hurt when I wake up and if I do any sort of physical activity something is bound to be sore for at least 24 hours. I keep telling myself I only have 8 more weeks though so that's getting me through it.

Saying all of that, I'm really trying to just enjoy being pregnant for these last two months. This little miracle inside of me isn't going to be there forever and that makes me kind of sad. Obviously I want to meet him but feeling his little kicks and hiccups and movement will be missed.

In other news, I only have 8 work days until 19 days off for Christmas. CANNOT WAIT.

How far along? 32 weeks! 2 months to go...Wowowowow.
Size of baby: Still the stupid squash. But he's almost 4 pounds...although he feels like he's 16 pounds when pouncing on my bladder.
Total weight gain/loss: +17ish. Our Monday appointment will give me a more accurate number.
Stretch marks? Still no. Knock knock.
Sleep: Pretty good besides waking up kind of sore.
Best moment this week: Getting the glider and realizing the nursery is just about finished. So crazy looking at all of his things that he will be using in such a short time.
Worst moment this week: Being sore and semi-grumpy. No breakdowns though...win!
Movement: So much. Tyler thinks he likes to stretch out and then hold the position so when he's poking out it's his little hand or foot.
Food cravings: Not a whole lot...Mexican food one night. Otherwise the appetite has been pretty tame.
Sex: Baby boy!
Labor Signs: I did experience 2 Braxton Hicks contractions that kind of hurt...well, I guess they were more uncomfortable than really painful but still. Craziness.
Belly Button in or out? Still in but stretched out. Tyler calls it the Chinese eye. My husband is not PC.
What I miss: The same complaints...breathing, moving, peeing, getting up off the couch in a timely manner.
What I am looking forward to: Christmas break!
Weekly Wisdom: Mrs. MFC and I decided that the week where you cross the line from mildly uncomfortable into the territory of Oh-My-God-I'm-So-Freaking-Uncomforatble-I-Could-Scream is about 31-32 weeks. So prepare yourself.
Milestones: Nursery's almost finished. :)

Brittany, lately

2011-12-07T09:40:00.001-08:00

The maternity leave dates are set. I say dates because January 19th is my last day of work at my day job and I'm closing up Brittany Garner Design on January 20th. The tentative reopen date is March 5 depending on when the little peanut shows up, how I'm feeling and all that jazz. As for my day job? I don't have to go back until July 5th. Which sounds really awesome right? Well, it is. If it were just simple. But no I had to go and complicate things by applying for another job and interviewing for it 31 weeks pregnant. Don't get me wrong, it would be a wonderful opportunity--a step up the ladder in more ways than one (mostly pay) but it would probably mean I wouldn't get my long maternity leave and I'm really struggling with that. I want that time with Harrison. I've been counting on it. I find out next week so I guess I shouldn't stress...until then.

On other fronts, the nursery is so close to being finished! I have an updated nursery post coming at you on Friday. :)

I bought 5 onesies with ties on them from Etsy yesterday. This could be a huge problem. But I mean, come on, THEY ARE JUST SO FREAKING CUTE.

From Etsy shop EllaLuBoutique

From Etsy shop BellaSweetBoutique

I mean, come on. COME ON.

Anyway, happy hump day. And I'd appreciate it if you could think good thoughts about this whole job thing because it's the only thing on my mind. :)

31 Weeks :: Kicks to the bladder, heavy breathing and eight meals a day. The usual.

2011-12-01T09:59:00.001-08:00

I feel like I'm carrying around a bowling ball. A bowling ball that likes to kick and punch. I've noticed he favors kicking me in the right side as opposed to the left and his kicks are strongest at night.

This whole pregnancy has just flown by and it's so hard to believe that in 2 months we will be meeting our little guy.

The nursery is coming along swimmingly, hope to have a few pictures soon! :)

How far along? 31 weeks!
Size of baby: Still the weird squash. He could be over 3.5 pounds at this point! WHOA.
Total weight gain/loss: +16
Stretch marks? Still no. Still knocking on wood.
Sleep: Ehh. Falling asleep/getting comfortable has been an issue but once I'm asleep it's usually pretty good (sans the 3 pee breaks during the night).
Best moment this week: Coming home to the nursery all painted and furniture arranged. Got me a little teary eyed that there will be a little inhabitant in there soon.
Worst moment this week: Going pee so often is getting really annoying. Getting up off the couch is bordering on embarrassing. And eating eight meals a day. Ok, I actually like the eating part.
Movement: SO MUCH. He's like a little ninja in there.
Food cravings: Nothing crazy like last week. Just the usual quesadillas, cereal and sweets. :)
Sex: Boyyy.
Labor Signs: Negative.
Belly Button in or out? In...barely.
What I miss: This week...it's wine. Let's be honest.
What I am looking forward to: Birthing class on the 17th. Christmas. Maternity leave.
Weekly Wisdom: Take a picture of yourself every week. I LOATHE taking pictures of myself but I'm so glad I did, it's so fun to look back on your growth.
Milestones: Countdown is in the single digits...as in 9 weeks...CRAZY.

30 Weeks :: Thanksgiving baby

2011-11-25T12:52:00.001-08:00

This is a day late but I was so busy stuffing my face with turkey yesterday...you can relate, right? :) The picture is from yesterday though.

How far along? 30 weeks! 10 to go...
Size of baby: Still a weird looking squash.
Total weight gain/loss: Um, pre-thanksgiving meal, +14. We'll find out on Monday the official damage though.
Stretch marks? Still no.
Sleep: Pretty darn good. Sometimes his kicks wake me up or keep me awake but it doesn't bother me too much.

Best moment this week: THANKSGIVING FOOD! And our friend shower, still feeling so loved.
Worst moment this week: Can't really think of one. AWESOME.
Movement: So much movement. The other night his kicks were especially strong and I would nudge the place where he kicked and he would kick again. It was pretty cool.
Food cravings: I had my weirdest food craving yet this week. We went in to a shoe store and all of the leather smelled SO GOOD. So good, in fact, I wanted to eat it. WEIRD.
Sex: Baby boy.
Labor Signs: Noooope.
Belly Button in or out? Still in.
What I miss: Breathing properly.
What I am looking forward to: Our appointment on Monday. Birthing class mid-December. Working on the nursery this weekend. :)
Weekly Wisdom: If you can, be pregnant during the holidays, it rocks.
Milestones: We're in the 30's!!

What the hell?

2011-11-21T12:31:00.003-08:00

What the hell, Jennifer Lopez?

Did you watch the AMA's last night? If you didn't, I envy you. Because that means you weren't subject to the obnoxiousness that Jennifer Lopez has become. Good to see Jenny from the block has completely sold out and lost every last shred of her dignity. Don't agree? Allow me to explain:

Exhibit A :: the dress-penis. Did she seriously think a shlong-like piece of fabric swinging between her legs would be cute?

Exhibit B :: Shamelessly endorsing the company that's paying you millions during a performance. This just made me sick. Funny thing is, I was defending her to Tyler right before this performance...she's not that bad, she's talented, she's real, she's doing her best. But no, she made me eat my words ten-fold after this performance. SICKENING.

Exhibit C :: Just because it's HILARIOUS. Did anyone notice Pitbull was...um...excited {in the dirtiest sense of the word} when he came out on stage? HAHAHA.

I'm over her. Plus, the actual song? Terrible.

29 weeks :: GIMME ALL THE FOOD

2011-11-17T10:25:00.001-08:00

Theme of the week: Eat like you're a bottomless pit, then eat some more. The only problem with this is there are very few foods that actually sound appetizing. Some of those foods include cereal (mostly the unhealthy kind Cap'n Crunch, Golden Grahams, Frosted Flakes), Thai food, Safeway panini's and sweets. It's a tough life.

Also, let's talk about how I sometimes get winded just sitting down. Yup, that happens. Oh, and? Baby boy has learned how to jab my insides. So it makes for some pretty excited "whoas!" from the daddy-to-be when he's feeling for movement. Super exciting. :)

How far along? 29 weeks!
Size of baby: We have graduated from the eggplant and Harrison is now a squash! 2.5 pounds and 15 inches long. I don't know if I've just been ignoring the "length" portion of these updates but 15 inches sounds really long! Most babies come out between 19-22...that's not too far to go.
Total weight gain/loss: +13. I'm expecting a big leap after Thanksgiving though...
Stretch marks? Negative...so far.
Sleep: Still incredible. Getting comfortable is a bit of a challenge but as long as Tyler stays on his 1/3 of the bed and I have my 2/3, we're good. ;)
Best moment this week: Many more people getting to feel baby kicks. And the smiles that follow. :)
Worst moment this week: A terrible backache after I decided to sit hunched over the coffee table painting frames for two hours.
Movement: Lots and lots! Baby boy is getting strong.
Food cravings: See above....ha.
Sex: BOY.
Labor Signs: Noooope.
Belly Button in or out? Still in, but creeping toward the surface.
What I miss: ?Lung capacity. And being able to sit closer to my desk at work.
What I am looking forward to: All of the things I ordered for the nursery arriving! Also our second baby shower this weekend!
Weekly Wisdom: Keep on keepin' on. Only 11 weeks left. Eek.
Milestones: Bigger belly, stronger kicks.

Christmas Cheer

2011-11-15T10:46:00.001-08:00

I know, I know... Thanksgiving hasn't even passed yet. But! I am just too excited for Christmas this year, I have to share some of the prints I have up in the shop these days.

Clearly, I'm a wee bit obsessed with Buddy the Elf. :) How are you getting in to the Christmas spirit?

Just give 'em a show, it's all they want

2011-11-14T10:57:00.001-08:00

SO MANY EXCITED FEELINGS AFTER WATCHING THIS.

Katniss looks like a badass with that bow and arrow. Get it, Jennifer.
HELLO EFFIE TRINKET. You don't even look like yourself, Elizabeth Banks.
The shot of Peeta looking at Katniss after they are chosen...HOLY CHILLS.
I've watched this thing 11 times now.
I cannot wait until March 23rd.

What are your thoughts on the trailer?!

28 Weeks :: Belly Poppin'

2011-11-10T09:39:00.001-08:00

Hi, I'm only 12 weeks away from my due date. Holy shitballs.

I had my first baby shower over the weekend. It was so great. We had family and family friends there and I felt so loved. I have a really hard time with attention, so the fact that it was coed and half of that attention was directed at Tyler made it a little easier on the anxiety-scale. Still not a fan of the whole opening gifts in front of everyone tradition but ya gotta do what ya gotta do.

Went to the doctor for our last monthly appointment on Monday. Now I have one in 3 weeks and then every two weeks and starting in January, EVERY WEEK. Crazy crazy crazy. Oh, and no gestational diabetes! Woo!

Did you know Baby H has doubled in size over the past month? CRAZY. No wonder everyone keeps looking at me sideways and saying "wow you really popped recently". Thanks, there's a 2.5 pound human in my uterus, probably sitting on my bladder, at the moment. :)

How far along? 28 weeks!
Size of baby: I guess he's STILL an eggplant.
Total weight gain/loss: +12
Stretch marks? Holding strong in this department.
Sleep: Pretty darn good. Only getting up once, maybe twice to pee. Hope this keeps up.
Best moment this week: Oh, the baby shower. I just love seeing my loved ones together in one place. Such a fun time.
Worst moment this week: Well, I only had one emotional breakdown that I can think of. But who knows what the hell it was about.
Movement: All over the place. Baby H can now maneuver his way up to my ribs so that's really pleasant feeling. Ha.
Food cravings: Lots and lots of cereal.
Sex: Baby boy!
Labor Signs: Negative.
Belly Button in or out? In but creeping toward the surface.
What I miss: This week it's feeling like I can breathe properly. Sometimes I literally feel like I just jogged a mile and I'm only laying down.
What I am looking forward to: Friend baby shower on the 20th and finally getting the nursery painted!
Weekly Wisdom: Take pictures of yourself every week. I feel like the biggest idiot doing it but going back and looking at how my belly has grown is really cool.
Milestones: Big belleh!

Belly Progression

2011-11-04T03:00:00.000-07:00

Taken on my super high quality web cam {sarcasm} but you get the idea. :)

27 Weeks :: Hello 3rd Trimester

2011-11-03T12:48:00.000-07:00

I am aware that some people think week 28 is the actual start of the third trimester but I'm impatient.

I had my Glucose Tolerance Test this morning. Just a couple of thoughts.

I hate hate hate having blood drawn.
I'm an idiot and wore a long sleeve shirt.
The drink was ok at first, tasted like Sprite. But by the end of it I was gagging.
People watching at a clinic like that is PRIME. So many good eavesdropping opportunities.
I feel really sad for everyone who works there. They had terrible attitudes and barely smiled...I can only attribute it to the fluorescent lighting, stark white walls and apparent no-talking rule that, I assume, was put in place by a Nazi-esque Mrs. Trunchbull-wannabe boss.
My arms hurt.

13 weeks left is so hard to believe. A two-pound baby living in my uterus is equally hard to believe...yes, still. But he's there. And sometimes he likes to do somersaults at 4 a.m. just to remind me. Joking aside, I'm really excited. :)

How far along? 27 weeks.
Size of baby: Still an eggplant. Can we get someone with more imagination picking the vegetables, please?
Total weight gain/loss: +12
Stretch marks? Still holding strong.
Sleep: Really good! Minus the 4 a.m. somersault wake up calls, but I don't mind those.
Best moment this week: There were a few. A great chat with my dad on the phone that included him reminiscing about the day they brought me home..."all of a sudden, your mom and I looked at each other with wide eyes and we were like...holy shit, we have a baby." HA. Can't wait for that moment. Also, Tyler telling me he's been writing letters to Harrison almost daily. Makes my heart melt.
Worst moment this week: Well. This is embarrassing. I had a full on melt down about a Burger King chicken sandwich. Why hasn't Tyler divorced me yet?
Movement: Oh yes.
Food cravings: Nothing crazy. Still obsessive about my cereal but that's about it.
Sex: Boy parts!
Labor Signs: Noooooo.
Belly Button in or out? Still an innie.
What I miss: All I can say is I can't wait for wine and sushi immediately following his birth.
What I am looking forward to: Baby shower on Saturday. :)
Weekly Wisdom: Don't do three straight hours of cleaning...split it up. Or your back will give you hell. Don't say I didn't warn you.
Milestones: THIRD FREAKING TRIMESTER.

Also, I had a guest interrupt my photo shoot this morning. Pretty sure he's trying to eat my belly.

Nursery Update

2011-11-01T03:00:00.000-07:00

First of all, happy first day of November!

We bought paint! We decided to go with Glidden paint and purchased Pebble Gray in a flat finish, Sunbeam in a satin finish and True Turquoise in a satin finish. Which helped us update our color palette a bit:

We are going to paint the walls gray with the main wall gray stripes. Sort of like this:

Source: awelldressedhome.com via brittany on Pinterest

My main focus this past week {besides trying to get rid of a barely-used mattress and awesome futon, who knew it would be so hard} has been deciding what I want to hang on the nursery walls. I have a lot of designs that I've made casually or to sell in my shop but it's a hard decision when it comes to your own kid! Here are my initial ideas. I wanted a more modern look that incorporated our color scheme.

We'll see how many times I change my mind though.

TO DO LIST UPDATE

Pre To Do List :: Sell mattress, ~~treadmill~~ and futon that are currently taking up room in the nursery. Might result to donating these by mid-week.

To Do List ::

~~Get paint~~. Check!
Paint walls gray.
Paint and get new hardware for dresser. Planning to paint it yellow with crystal (clear) hardware. {Using this for help.}
DIY horizontal stripe curtains. Want the stripes to be the same color as the dresser. (Help. And more help.}
Put crib together.
DIY poms. In turquoise. (Help.)
~~Create some art for the walls and such. {ideas so far include: Alphabet print, H is for...Print, Birth date print, framed sonogram, framed picture of mom and dad}~~ I've got plenty to choose from, now I just need to narrow it down.
Paint side table. Probably yellow as well.

New Additions to the To Do List ::

Paint frames. K-Mart was having a huge sale and I got a shit-ton of frames for super cheap. Now I can paint them to match the color scheme.
Order glider. A gift from Tyler's grandparents, now we just need to pick one out!

To Buy List ::

Ikea bookshelf.
~~Gray~~ Yellow area rug.
~~Giraffe Art Print.~~
Wiener lamp. In ~~blue~~ white.
~~Amazingly adorable elephant hamper~~.
~~Assortment of different size frames that I can paint yellow and turquoise~~.
~~Turquoise throw pillows of some sort~~.
~~"H" for above the crib~~. From Etsy seller Say It With Letters.
Bedding.Ordered a custom crib skirt from Etsy seller Mellissa's Boutique. Going to pair it with yellow sheets and forgo the crib bumper.
Wall shelves. Going with this space saver.

I had a minor panic attack when I realized my due date was less than 14 weeks away... time to get cookin' on this project while I still have the energy to!

26 Weeks :: Only 14 to go, this shit is getting real

2011-10-27T10:02:00.000-07:00

Yeah, I'm wearing the same top as last week. My wardrobe pickin's are getting slim. Ha.

How far along? 26 wiggity weeks.
Size of baby: Still an eggplant baby apparently, just a larger one I suppose.
Total weight gain/loss: +10. BAH.
Stretch marks? None yet but the belly is definitely getting tighter. I'm lotion-ing like a mad woman but it's probably in vain.
Sleep: Pretty good.
Best moment this week: We figured out paint swatches for the little one's nursery. Also, finalized some plans on our second baby shower. So excited!
Worst moment this week: Just a minor breakdown here or there. Pregnancy is overwhelming, yo.
Movement: Yep, feel him all day. It's still such a surreal feeling.
Food cravings: All things. Mostly cheese and A LOT of sweets. Lately it's been caramel chocolate chip cookies from our local cookie shop. NOM.
Sex: Baby boy!
Labor Signs: Nope. Apparently Braxton Hicks contractions should start soon but so far, no sign of those.
Belly Button in or out? In. And staying there if I have anything to do with it.
What I miss: It not being a struggle to bend over and put on my shoes.
What I am looking forward to: Baby shower next weekend. :)
Weekly Wisdom: Sweats and your husband's t shirts will become your best friend. Quote me.
Milestones: The ever growing belly!

What's on my iPhone :: Part III

2011-10-26T03:00:00.000-07:00

Part III in this series brought to you courtesy of Baby Garner and his first {I'm sure of many} picture on my phone.

And in case, you're keeping count, I'm up to 747 pictures on this little phone.

This is just embarrassing. Sometimes I like to annoy Tyler by sending him obnoxious things while he's at work. This was one such moment.

This was another such moment... If you don't answer me, I don't care, I keep texting. What did I tell you? OBNOXIOUS.

Just in case you really wanted to see the rest of the picture I sent him above. I HAS FEETS. HAHAHAHAH.

Lucy Goosey, modeling.

Old man Louie put himself in the corner. And then proceeded to fall asleep sitting up. What a weirdo.

My Moo cards! Because I have Klout. :) I love them.

My parents' dog Buddy. He passed away a couple of weeks ago. RIP, Bud.

Show me what's on your phone!

Happy hump day!

Makeup :: Organization and What I Use On the Regular

2011-10-25T03:00:00.000-07:00

Let's begin this with a disclaimer: I am by no means a makeup connoisseur. Far from it. I do, however, really enjoy make up and trying new products. Plus, in our new place I basically have my own bathroom so I have drawers dedicated to just make up. Which is fun.

The first drawer is essentially filled with the stuff I use most often/on a daily basis.I got the plastic organizers from Bed, Bath and Beyond and they have made life so much easier.

The second drawer is filled with too-tall products and things I use only occasionally. Organization in this one consists of random containers and bins I already owned. Honestly, I don't open this drawer very much.

And the brush set up! I like having them out on the counter, easy access. {And um, yeah I need to clean them}

As for the makeup I wear on a {pretty much} daily basis... it really seems like a lot now that I look at it. Haha. But it really only takes me like 20 minutes to get ready in the morning, that is, if I just throw my hair up in to a bun when it's still semi-wet. But still.

items described below form left to right

Face
Olay Complete with SPF 15 Moisturizer: LURVE this stuff. It's soft and does wonders for my dry face. Mac Prep + Prime: If I know it's going to be a long day or a special occasion I slap a layer of this stuff on, it keeps my face makeup fresh. Mac Studio Fix Foundation: This is literally the only foundation I've ever used that covers up {and keeps covered} all of my blemishes. It's a little thicker but I wash my face every evening and it doesn't make me break out. Mac Skinfinish Powder: Love this stuff! It's light but does it's job.

Cheeks
Rimmel Natural Bronzer: I use the crap out of this. As a victim of pale ghost skin, I have to contour like a mother effer. This stuff works great. Mac Mineralized Skinfinish in Soft and Gentle: My absolute FAVORITE product, hands down. I use it on my cheeks mostly but it can be used as an eye highlighter, on your chest, arms, legs, etc. It's subtle but has a wonderful shimmer. Love love love. Clinique Blush in Precious Posy: I love this pink color and I use very little in conjunction with Skinfinish.

Eyes
Mac eyeshadows: I use different ones all the time but my favorites include Filament, All That Glitters, Naked Lunch, Soft Brown Matte, Hush, Embark and Sable. Mac Eye Brow Pencil in Fling: I don't draw in my eyebrows or anything but sometimes they're in need of a little oomph. I wouldn't say I use this on the daily but semi-often--depends on if I'm in a hurry or not. Ha. L'Oreal Liquid Liner in Black Mica: I can only use liquid eye liner and this is my fave, by far. Maybelline Falsies Mascara in Black: I've gone through so many different kinds of mascara and this stuff has just worked the best on my stubby, thin lashes.

What are your favorite products?

Got this idea from the fabulous {but evil} Tara. Check her out!

Our First Anniversary :: The ironic, head-slapping disaster

2011-10-24T09:53:00.000-07:00

I imagined a lot of things when I imagined our first anniversary. I was thinking in terms of flowers and love and red hearts popping out my head. But no. That's not how it went. Rushing a dog the emergency vet was a part of it though.

King Louie Jesus Pumpernickle

I got home from work around 3 on the day that one year ago had me giddy and smiling and looking the best I've ever looked...to a poor chihuahua who was bleeding from his asshole. If that doesn't make the red hearts dissolve in to thin air, you are a disgusting human. So I put Louie on the counter and tried to clean up the mess. It looked like a big blister (to the left of his asshole, to be fair) and it was purple and bloody and disgusting. Please don't quit reading, I swear I'll stop being gross in a second. I called a couple of vets, found one that was on a walk in basis, wrapped the poor little guy (who was visibly in pain) in a towel and went to the vet.

Let me tell you something about Louie. He is the most peppy, upbeat, happiest dog I've ever met. And even though his age (approximately 14 years) is getting up there, he's never so much as limped. Which has, in turn, made us bad parents in terms of keeping up with regular vet visits.

Let me tell you something about me. When I get stressed, I cry. When I get overwhelmed, I cry. Pretty much any emotion, good news, or bad news, I cry. And it's even worse when I have to do these things alone. Call me a child, it's fine. No, really...because sometimes I act like one.

So anyway, I take him in to the vet and they get us in quickly. They check his vitals. I can't remember what kind of food we feed him - first feelings of inadequacy as a fur-mom. The veterinarian comes in and examines him for a good ten minutes, talking to me the whole time. Leaves. Comes back. Leaves again. Meanwhile Tyler is 4 minutes from getting off work and rushing over to save me from my impending tears. Vet comes back. Louie has a bad abscessed anal gland with a possible tumor. But in addition, he also has a heart murmur and a gum disease. Cue tears. Cue more feelings of inadequacy as a fur-mom. Where the hell is Tyler?!

She then takes Louie to the back to clear the gland and get it cleaned up. I'm left with thoughts of tumors, murmurs and disease.

Tyler finally shows up and is able to talk me in to a state of calm. That is, until we got the bill and the estimates for the dental work and heart tests he will have to get in the future. Happy anniversary, babe. After being at the vet's office for 3 hours, we were free to go.

Tyler's plan for the anniversary was sort of already foiled. He told me he got us a nice hotel room in town and he had planned on going after work to fill it with flowers, candles and put sparkling cider on ice for me. Then we were going to go out to a nice dinner.

What actually happened: we took Louie home and gave him a plethora of meds. Set him up a nice spot to recover in. Left late and went to the hotel. Ordered in Mexican food. Watched the sing off. Worried about the dog. Left for home early the next morning. We were gone for barely 12 hours.

Not exactly the romantic night we had planned. By the next morning (especially after I saw Louie was doing SO MUCH BETTER) we were laughing about it. I mean, really, what are you going to do? This won't be an anniversary that's easily forgettable, that's for sure.

And Louie is doing much better! Almost back to his normal self. Thank goodness. And me? Still get weepy when I think of all the medical stuff we're about to put him through but I know deep down that it's necessary. And Tyler? Still the best husband anyone could ask for. I'm a lucky girl.

25 Weeks :: Eggplant baby

2011-10-20T11:36:00.000-07:00

25 weeks!!! Just some random pregnancy tidbits for this week's update.

I can feel my hips getting sore. It's a weird feeling, and I know it's completely normal, but I don't like not being able to be as active.
Glucose Tolerance Test is coming up. I'm skurrrred.
I ordered the custom crib skirt and pillow for Harrison's nursery! We decided against using a crib bumper due to all the new warnings and studies. Just better to be safe than sorry, we figure.
I'm noticeably pregnant now. Like, people are actually commenting and asking when my due date is. Such a crazy thing!
When I go to get coffee I make sure to say DECAF extra loud so people don't get all judgy.
We are all signed up for Childbirth classes! Can't wait to experience those....

How far along? 25 weeks!
Size of baby: About 14 inches and close to 2 pounds! Growing, growing, growing!
Total weight gain/loss: I have to be +10, at least.
Stretch marks? Negative.
Sleep: So good. So, so, so good.
Best moment this week: Getting 9 hours of sleep last night? Oh yeah.
Worst moment this week: Well our anniversary was kind of disastrous, but that's a story for a different day.
Movement: A lot! And getting stronger by the day.
Food cravings: So much cheese--cheese pizza, quesadillas, cheez-its...I could go on forever.
Sex: BOY.
Labor Signs: Nope.
Belly Button in or out? Still in and no signs of budging.
What I miss: This week it's mostly physical. I think I'm starting to waddle.
What I am looking forward to: Getting our new crib bedding! Doing the nursery and our family baby shower on the 5th! :)
Weekly Wisdom: The past few weeks really have been the best part of my pregnancy, I'm just trying to enjoy them with every bit of my being.
Milestones: My belly sticks out farther than my boobs now. It's a sight.

How to Not Be a Douchebag Behind the Wheel

2011-10-18T03:00:00.000-07:00

Asshole Driver in action

I have road rage and I'm pretty sure I can't be cured. In all seriousness, where the hell do people learn to drive? Because when you know the rules of the road, it's not difficult. But still, a good 77% of drivers out there are effing clueless when it comes to driving skills. I have a theory that they are all basically sucky human beings in their free time but Tyler seems to think that people turn in to a different version of themselves behind the wheel (read: people turn in to assholes).

So if you're one of the people who suffer from a case of Asshole Driver or, you're looking for a way to politely tell someone they can't drive, here is my list of How to Not Be a Douchebag Behind the Wheel. Follow these and you will make the world a happier place. Or least of all, you'll make me happy--your resident crazy, hormonal pregnant lady.

1. Use your blinker. Driving school 101. It will let me know that you are, in fact, turning right into the parking lot which will in turn, allow me to pull out and not have to wait 72 more minutes for traffic to clear. Kind of like that whole cause/effect thing we learned in 4th grade. Plus, I'd do it for you.

2. Do not speed up when we get to the passing lanes. I KNOW YOU KNOW WHAT YOU'RE DOING. I have been following your ass going 30 in a 65 for 82 miles and as soon as we hit the passing lanes you decide to go 90. Thank you, douchebag.

3. Do not cheat. This one is for anyone who has ever sat in traffic. Picture it. There is a long line of cars trying to get somewhere. Traffic is slow, obviously we all want to go home. Suddenly there's another lane but it doesn't take you quite where you want to go--so the good person waits in the long line of traffic--patiently. The Asshole Driver will use this lane to get as close as possible to the front of the line of traffic and squeeze his or her way in, therefore screwing the rest of us nice, polite, patient drivers.

4. Refrain from being either the Old Lady Driver or the Psychotic Idiot Driver. There is no place for either on the road. Old Lady Driver doesn't necessarily mean you're old but a lot of the time...it rings true. This driver is a douchebag for the mere fact that they are going 15 under the speed limit--slow people cause accidents too, ya know! The Psychotic Idiot Driver has no regard for my life and weaves in and out of traffic like a maniac pushing his or her '94 Honda to it's max speed of 80...in a 35 zone.

5. Get off your damn cell phone. It's against the law for a reason. {Even if it's not against the law in your state, it's still straight up dumb to do it} Don't text. Don't talk. GET OFF OF IT. It can wait. Holding your phone while it's on speaker does not count for "hands free" driving. Plus, you know that shit costs $310 now if you get a ticket? USE YOUR BRAIN.

6. The horn is for emergencies only. Am I the only one who jumps when they hear a car horn? Let me give you some examples. It is acceptable to use a car horn when... a car is merging in to your lane and they don't see you--honk to avoid an accident. It is unacceptable to use a car horn... when you're sitting in traffic and there is obviously not a damn thing the car in front of you can do. Don't do it, you'll just piss people off.

7. Remember shit. {alternate title: things that should go unsaid} Just be a good human. Be courteous, be alert, be knowledgeable. The rest of us will be very thankful.

Follow these rules and you will help me to cure my road rage and it will be very much appreciated. What is your advice for all the Asshole Drivers out there...please share!

24 Weeks :: A quickie! And I'm not talking about how I got pregnant

2011-10-13T12:49:00.000-07:00

24 weeks! And another stink face. HA.

This is going to be a quick update, I'm so busy today! :)

How far along? 24 weeks...which means only 16 to go!
Size of baby: Still a papaya. Couldn't think of another fruit?
Total weight gain/loss: +8 aaaand here comes the pound-age.
Stretch marks? None yet. Knock on wood.
Sleep: Dare I say it's good? Well it is, but I don't want to jinx it so keep it on the DL. ;)
Best moment this week: My mom sent out the baby shower invites for our family shower. I'm so excited!!
Worst moment this week: Well, sitting in traffic in San Francisco for three hours with a full bladder and being super mad at the situation was pretty miserable. But we survived.
Movement: It's getting stronger and more frequent. He's a growing boy!
Food cravings: This week was mostly sweets... Milano cookies, Klondike bars, ice cream with hot fudge... NOM.
Sex: Baby boy!
Labor Signs: Nope.
Belly Button in or out? In.
What I miss: Less frequent bathroom trips. Sushi.
What I am looking forward to:Working on the nursery. Someday we'll start.
Weekly Wisdom: Maternity leggings are the best invention EVER. Trust me.
Milestones: We had our monthly appointment on Monday and everything is looking good! We only have one more regular monthly appointment. Then we have one in three weeks then every two weeks! HOLY CRAP.

Our Wedding

2011-10-12T03:00:00.000-07:00

October 17, 2011 is my one year wedding anniversary. I can't believe that we have been married for a year, it has flown by! I guess it's about time that I recap it here, huh? :) I can't even begin to caption these photos because the day was just so perfect. Of course, there were things that didn't go quite as planned--like, IT RAINED--but, in the grand scheme of things, it didn't even matter.

The day was just so perfect. I cherish the memories, the way I felt and the amazing feeling of having all of our closest loved ones together in one place. I'm one of the weird few who enjoyed wedding planning and when it was all over, I won't lie, I had withdrawals. But every once in awhile I go back and look through all of these wonderful photos to relive one of the most magical days of my life. And the best part? I am now married to my partner and best friend. :)

Updates in the BGD Shop!

2011-10-07T03:00:00.000-07:00

I love fall, it is definitely one of my favorite seasons. So creating art work especially for autumn activities makes me giddy every year. Just thought I'd share a few. :)

All of these designs can be found in my shop. And for an extra 15% off use the coupon code HALLOWEENFUN through the month of October. :)

Please excuse the watermarks--oh, how I loathe them--but I was informed that my designs are too easy to steal, bummer.

23 Weeks :: Good feelings, a sweet tooth and freaky dreams

2011-10-06T11:39:00.000-07:00

I am really feeling good this week. No urge for that afternoon nap when I get home from work, no uncomfortable feelings, just all around feeling really good. And feeling very aware that this will not last for much longer so I'm trying to soak up and enjoy it as much as possible.

My appetite is out of control. There's not much I can really say about that, I just eat. A lot. Often. Also, I've never had a sweet tooth IN MY LIFE but I have one now. And I can't help but indulge it because I don't know how to control it! haha. Oh, pregnancy.

I had a dream the other night that I had Harrison 17 weeks early, so like... now. And he still weighed 8 pounds. Dear god don't let me have a 12 pound baby.

How far along? 23 weeks!
Size of baby: Apparently still a papaya. They couldn't come up with a new fruit? But the little man is measuring about 11 inches and weighs over a pound.
Total weight gain/loss: +6. Gaining about a pound a week now.
Stretch marks? No ma'am.
Sleep: Pretty good.
Best moment this week: My mother in law visited over the weekend and she got to feel Harrison kick. She's going to be such a great grandmother. :)
Worst moment this week: I'd hate to jinx myself but this week was pretty good. Maybe just how cranky I can get at night? ha.
Movement: Lots! Especially right before bed.
Food cravings: Yellow curry! Om nom nom.
Sex: Baby boy!
Labor Signs: Negative.
Belly Button in or out? In.
What I miss: Sushi. Being able to breathe properly. Being able to shave my legs without a struggle.
What I am looking forward to: I'm just so excited to meet the little guy.
Weekly Wisdom: Staying positive is key. The experience is an adventure, I'm taking it one day at a time but enjoying every minute.
Milestones: A crazy appetite and lots of baby kicks. :)

And here's another four weeks of my belly progression.

A Note From the Universe

2011-10-05T09:22:00.000-07:00

It's as if before you there are countless doorways, all leading to new and different hallways. So you wonder and think, calculate and stress, over whether or not you'll knock on the "right" one.

But what you can't yet see, Brittany, is that all of the hallways beyond all of the doorways eventually lead to the same great room, in the same great house, with the same great party.

So, may as well pick the one you want? Huh?
The Universe

This couldn't of come at a more perfect time. I choose happy, no matter what. :)

Happy hump day, friends!

xo,

Get yours here.

Gotta get down on Friday

2011-09-30T12:39:00.000-07:00

This is a special message from one big wiener and a little chihuahua:

"Have a GREAT weekend, friends!"

Plans for us include:

My favorite mother in law visiting from Virginia!
Bowling
Good food
Shopping for all things baby
Relaxing :)

What do you have on your plate this weekend?

22 Weeks :: Better sleep = happier Brittany

2011-09-29T09:50:00.000-07:00

this was actually taken last night because i knew i would have no time this morning. and, why yes, that is three day unwashed hair. sexy huh?

It's my lucky number week! But if last night's sleep was any indication of the week to come, I would like to skip right on over it and on to week 23. Can I do that? No, in reality (and discounting last night), I have been sleeping SO MUCH BETTER. Sooooooooooooooooo much better. I only have been waking up to pee once a night on average and sleep has just been deeper. I'm sure the one Tylenol PM I take an hour before bed has been the reason for that but I'm thankful nonetheless.

Nothing else to really report this week. Feeling good, rested and happy. :) And can't wait to start on the freaking nursery!!

How far along? 22 weeks! 18 to go! whoa.
Size of baby: A papaya... and he weighs almost a pound. Woohoo!
Total weight gain/loss: +4.
Stretch marks? Nope. Holding strong. So far.
Sleep: Better, for the most part. Last night was kind of a fluke. My little brother was staying over and didn't get in until late and I got mad at Tyler for what I'm sure was no good reason...so last night doesn't count sleep-wise.
Best moment this week: Lots of baby kicks. :)
Worst moment this week: Still losing control of my emotions at certain times during the night but I'm able to feel it and warn Tyler. So things have been better.
Movement: Lots!
Food cravings: Lately it's been a whole lot of cookies and chips and snack type food. Oh, and a craving for yellow curry at one point.
Sex: Boy!
Labor Signs: Nope.
Belly Button in or out? In.
What I miss: Coffee.
What I am looking forward to: Our next appointment and baby showers! :)
Weekly Wisdom: I'm getting used to this pregnant thing and I think I'm pretty good at it. And I'm sure I'm going to miss it when it's over but I guess I'll have plenty to do at that point.
Milestones: Just a bigger belly! :)

The iPhone Chronicles :: Games to play when you should be doing other things

2011-09-28T13:13:00.000-07:00

Angry Birds, Flight Control, Supermarket Mania... just a few of the game apps that I've become addicted to and conquered ~~in my spare time~~ while I should of been doing other things. :) Here are a few more I'm trying to add to that list.

Plants vs. Zombies :: Tiny Tower :: Pizza Guy

>> Plants vs. Zombies :: These aren't your run of the mill, terrifying zombies here...they are actually kind of cute. And using adorable flesh eating plants to eradicate them is, contrary to what you might be thinking, really fun. This is one of those games where your husband starts to get irritated because he's talking to you but you're too engulfed in your zombie killing business to take notice. Oopsies.
>> Tiny Tower :: This one is free! But it's one of those games where you have to wait minutes or hours for certain things to happen. You know what I'm talking about. These are better for me because I have a tendency to beat a game too quickly and then get sad because I can't play it anymore. Ha. Anyway, you build a tower. But there's more to it than that. Download it, it's free!
>> Pizza Boy :: I originally downloaded this game because it reminded of old school Super Mario {look at the screenshot!}and it is similar and super fun. It's simple but I think that's what I love about it.

top left: Plants vs. Zombies; bottom left: Pizza Boy; right: Tiny Tower

At the risk of becoming even more of a procrastinator, what games are you addicted to right now?

xo,

Nursery Plans

2011-09-27T03:00:00.000-07:00

I am bursting with ideas and am just starting to narrow down my thoughts--registering really helped with that, actually. Here are the preliminary ideas.

Color Scheme :: Gray, pale yellow, turquoise.

Pre To Do List :: Sell mattress, treadmill and futon that are currently taking up room in the nursery. {Anyone need a mattress, treadmill or futon? ;) }

To Do List ::

Paint walls gray
Paint and get new hardware for dresser. Planning to paint it pale yellow with crystal (clear) hardware. {Using this for help.}
DIY horizontal stripe curtains. Want the stripes to be the same color as the dresser. (Help. And more help.}
Put crib together.
DIY poms. In turquoise. (Help.)
Create some art for the walls and such. {ideas so far include: Alphabet print, H is for...Print, Birth date print, framed sonogram, framed picture of mom and dad}
Paint side table. Probably pale yellow as well.

To Buy List ::

Ikea bookshelf.
Gray area rug.
Giraffe Art Print.
Wiener lamp. In blue.
Amazingly adorable elephant hamper.
Assortment of different size frames that I can paint yellow and turquoise.
Turquoise throw pillows of some sort.
"H" for above the crib.
{not pictured} Bedding. I found some at Target I really like, so it's on our registry for the moment. But I might want something custom. Decisions, decisions.
{not pictured} Wall shelves.

So, what do you think? Any cute ideas you think I should incorporate?

His Name

2011-09-26T03:00:00.000-07:00

To put it mildly, it was a challenge to find the perfect name. Between Tyler being adverse to the popular {or, as he likes to call them, "country club, pinky in the air"} names and me being drawn to the more contemporary names, we had our fair share of battles. I must of texted him three or four names a day with the hope that he would like one of them.

I suggested Harrison in very beginning and it was his favorite from there on out. No matter how many names we came up we always ended up back at Harrison. I love the way it encompasses both a traditional and contemporary feel. And really, it's just perfect.

Gordon as the middle name will serve as the sentimental part. It's been passed down to the first son in Tyler's family for four generations. I like the way the names sound together so it worked out just perfectly.

So there it is, Harrison Gordon, our sweet little baby boy. Can't wait to meet him. :)

21 Weeks :: Registering woes, baby kicks and HIS NAME (sorta)

2011-09-22T11:02:00.000-07:00

So apparently this is turning in to a pregnancy update blog. I guess you all know what the most important and fun thing going on in my life is... this little baby boy. :)

the bathroom pic. this is my real smile. ;) ha. 21 weeks!

We registered last weekend and holy OVERWHELMING. When we registered for wedding stuff we did it all online because we knew how crazy we would get trying to pick out a toaster oven among the 194 on the shelf. With baby things it's different, we were clueless as to what we needed, how much we needed and how all of these baby gadgets worked. What was not different was that it was super overwhelming. Honestly, why do they need a whole aisle of nipples?! WHY? I'm glad, however, to say we made it through unscathed and approximately 47% increase in our baby gear smarts.

Two of our three baby showers are officially on the calendar and, like I was with the wedding, my heart is all melty and appreciative for all the great people we have in our lives. We are truly lucky.

Oh, we decided on a name. And it's perfect. :)

How far along? 21 weeks. Over halfway there ;)
Size of baby: A banana. 10.5 inches, 12.7 ounces.
Total weight gain/loss: +3
Stretch marks? Nooooope.
Sleep: One Tylenol PM at night is really doing wonders.
Best moment this week: Tyler feeling his son kick for the first time. :)
Worst moment this week: Registering. Glad it's over. Ha.
Movement: Getting stronger and stronger.
Food cravings: Random things. Definitely getting a larger appetite.
Sex: Baby boy!
Labor Signs: Nope.
Belly Button in or out? Innie.
What I miss: Being able to walk upstairs without getting winded.
What I am looking forward to: Our next appointment on 10/10/11. Getting going on the nursery! Telling you all his name. :)
Weekly Wisdom: Mentally prepare to register for baby things. You don't want to be the pregnant girl who starts crying in an aisle full of strollers.
Milestones: Lots of baby kicks. My mother in law thinks we have a punter in there.Oh, and also, HE HAS A NAME! :)

Stay tuned for Monday's post... It's the NAME REVEAL!

My Emmy Picks

2011-09-16T13:18:00.000-07:00

The time is here yet again! Emmy time!

Outstanding Drama Series
Boardwalk Empire
Dexter
Friday Night Lights
Game of Thrones
The Good Wife
Mad Men

Who I hope wins :: DEXTER. Michael C. Hall has been through a shit ton this past year...and while I know that doesn't necessarily mean he deserves to win, Dexter is a badass show too. So, go Dexter!

Who will win :: Toss up between Dexter and Mad Men. Both shows I love. Although, I've heard Boardwalk Empire is pretty great too but I haven't got a chance to watch it yet.

Outstanding Comedy Series
Big Bang Theory
Glee
Modern Family
The Office
Parks and Recreation
30 Rock

Who I hope wins :: Such a hard category! I literally LOVE all six of these. But I have to pick one...ummm...ok, Modern Family, THERE.

Who will win :: Eeeeek. Toss up.

Outstanding Actress in a Drama
Kathy Bates, Harry's Law
Connie Britton, Friday Night Lights
Mireille Enos, The Killing
Mariska Hargitay, Law and Order: SVU
Julianna Margulies, The Good Wife
Elisabeth Moss, Mad Men

Who I hope wins :: Elisabeth Moss.

Who will win :: Julianna Margulies.

Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Drama
Kelly Macdonald, Boardwalk Empire
Archie Panjabi, The Good Wife
Christine Baranski, The Good Wife
Margo Martindale, Justified
Michelle Forbes, The Killing
Christina Hendricks, Mad Men

Who I hope wins :: Christina Hendricks because I lurve her.

Who will win :: Probably one of The Good Wife candidates. At first I couldn't get in to The Good Wife but I think I might give it a second chance after a preview we watched the other night.

Outstanding Actor in a Drama
Steve Buscemi, Boardwalk Empire
Kyle Chandler, Friday Night Lights
Michael C. Hall, Dexter
John Hamm, Mad Men
Hugh Laurie, House
Timothy Olyphant, Justified

Who I hope wins :: Timothy Olyphant. YUM.

Who will win :: Hugh Laurie. Which I'm ok with, he rocks too.

Outstanding Supporting Actor in a Drama
Peter Dinklage, Game of Thrones
Josh Charles, The Good Wife
Alan Cumming, The Good Wife
Walton Goggins, Justified
John Slattery, Mad Men
Andrew Braugher, Men of a Certain Age

Who I hope wins :: Walton Goggins. I heart Justified if you couldn't tell.

Who will win :: I think Walton will take it, he's incredible.

Outstanding Actress in a Comedy
Edie Falco, Nurse Jackie
Tina Fey, 30 Rock
Laura Linney, The Big C
Melissa McCarthy, Mike & Molly
Martha Plimpton, Raising Hope
Amy Poehler, Parks and Recreation

Who I hope wins :: Laura Linney. Just because I love her so.

Who will win :: Tina or Amy. Rightfully deserved, too.

Outstanding Supporting Actress In A Comedy
Jane Lynch, Glee
Betty White, Hot In Cleveland
Julie Bowen, Modern Family
Sofia Vergara, Modern Family
Kristen Wiig, Saturday Night Live
Jane Krakowski, 30 Rock

Who I hope wins :: Jane Lynch. Love me some Coach Sylvester.

Who will win :: Jane Lynch. Isn't she hosting, too?

Outstanding Actor in a Comedy
Alec Baldwin, 30 Rock
Louis C.K., Louie
Steve Carrell, The Office
Johnny Galecki, The Big Bang Theory
Matt LeBlanc, Episodes
Jim Parsons, The Big Bang Theory

Who I hope wins :: Steve Carrell, it's his last chance!

Who will win :: Jim Parsons. Or Steve. Hard to say.

Outstanding Supporting Actor In A Comedy
Chris Colfer, Glee
Jesse Tyler Ferguson, Modern Family
Ed O'Neill, Modern Family
Eric Stonestreet, Modern Family
Ty Burrell, Modern Family
Jon Cryer, Two and a Half Men

Who I hope wins :: Eric Stonestreet. HILARIOUS.

Who will win :: Probably Chris Colfer.

Outstanding Variety, Comedy Or Musical Series
The Colbert Report
Conan
The Daily Show With Jon Stewart
Late Night With Jimmy Fallon
Real Time With Bill Maher
Saturday Night Live

Who I hope wins :: SNL or Conan.

Who will win :: Really have no idea.

Outstanding Reality Show
The Amazing Race
American Idol
Dancing With the Stars
Project Runway
So You Think You Can Dance
Top Chef

Who I hope wins :: The Amazing Race. Because it's amazing!

Who will win :: The Amazing Race. Because...well, yeah.

Outstanding Guest Actor In A Comedy
Idris Elba, The Big C
Nathan Lane, Modern Family
Zach Galifianakis, Saturday Night Live
Justin Timberlake, Saturday Night Live
Matt Damon, 30 Rock
Will Arnett, 30 Rock

Who I hope wins :: Justin Timberlake...bring it on down to liquor villllle.

Who will win :: JT!

Outstanding Guest Actress In A Comedy
Kristin Chenoweth, Glee
Dot-Marie Jones, Glee
Gwyneth Paltrow, Glee
Cloris Leachman, Raising Hope
Tina Fey, Saturday Night Live
Elizabeth Banks, 30 Rock

Who I hope wins :: Gwyneth or Kristin. Loved them on Glee!

Who will win :: Gwyneth.

20 Weeks :: Halfway there!

2011-09-15T11:23:00.000-07:00

This is me. In my bathroom. 20 weeks. Boom.

20 weeks down, people. Only 20 to go. This just reminds me of the infinity and seven things we have left to do. We're registering this weekend at Buy Buy Baby and Target. Are those good places? Because when it comes to baby stuff we still feel 97% clueless.

I definitely feel myself getting bigger and I think I'm feeling movement when I'm laying down.

We had our monthly doctor's appointment on Monday and everything looks great! I really like our doctor, he has a great sense of humor but is calming and reassuring. Definitely the type of person I'm going to want taking care of me when I'm pushing this watermelon out. :)

How far along? 20 weeks!
Size of baby: A cantaloupe, 6.5 in, 10.6 oz. Although, at our ultrasound last week it showed Baby G was measuring bigger than even that. Please don't let me have a 12 pounder.
Total weight gain/loss: +3. Official, from the doctor's office.
Stretch marks? Sleep marks sometimes scare the shit out of me in the morning. But none as of yet.
Sleep: I had one amazing night of sleep Tuesday. I'll take it. And savor it. And hope it comes back.
Best moment this week: Getting a baby gift from Tyler's sweet cousin who lives in Seattle. I forgive her that it has a Mariner's logo on it. ;)
Worst moment this week: I just added this one in. I've realized at night, when I'm cranky, I lose all control of my emotions. I will blow up or cry if Tyler leaves his laundry in the dryer. I am irrational. The worst part is, I know I'm acting like a lunatic and can't make myself stop. Is this what it feels like to be insane?
Movement: I'm pretty sure, yes! I can't wait until it gets stronger.
Food cravings: Pizza. This has been an ongoing thing...usually HAVE TO HAVE IT at least once a week.
Sex: Baby boy!
Labor Signs: No.
Belly Button in or out? In!
What I miss: Remarkably, nothing this week.
What I am looking forward to: Registering! :)
Weekly Wisdom: When you feel a crankiness coming on, just go to bed.
Milestones: Halfway point. In approximately 20 weeks we'll be meeting our little man.

19 weeks :: It's sex time!

2011-09-08T03:00:00.000-07:00

Bet you want to know what the sex is, right? Well...

Baby G officially has boy parts! See? It's ok, I don't see it either. But if you look closely there's a handy dandy arrow pointing you in the right direction.

We are over the moon excited. From the very beginning when people asked what we wanted--boy or girl--we said the same thing, "HEALTHY" because honestly, it's all we cared about. But now that we know, we couldn't be more thrilled.

How far along? 19 weeks! Almost halfway there, so hard to believe!
Size of baby: Size of my favorite fruit, a mango.
Total weight gain/loss: Sometimes I'm +2 and three hours later I'm back at my starting weight. I give up.
Stretch marks? Nooope.
Sleep: A tad bit better than it has been. But that's not saying much.
Best moment this week: Finding out baby G has boy parts!
Movement: A little...I can't wait until it becomes more apparent.
Food cravings: Still not anything in particular but I'm eating at strange times. I'm not super hungry in the morning to afternoon but late afternoon, like 3ish, I could eat a horse.
Sex: BOY. :)
Labor Signs: No.
Belly Button in or out? Still in.
What I miss: Still sleep.
What I am looking forward to: Our appointment on the 12th. Decorating the nursery and buying little clothes!
Weekly Wisdom: Drinking the 32 ounces of water needed for the ultrasound first thing in the morning is quite a feat...not just the drinking it, but having to hold in your pee afterward--TORTURE. I thought I was going to burst.
Milestones: Seeing the wiener. Ha. And the fact that he has two arms and two legs, a brain, a spine. That's always a plus.

The iPhone Chronicles :: My favorite apps

2011-09-07T03:00:00.000-07:00

Hello lovers. I don't know about you all, but I would pretty much be lost without my phone. I literally use it for everything--recipes, directions, to do lists, entertainment, inspiration, social media, the list goes on and on. And on. So I've decided to start this little series to let the world know, further, of my obsession. And who knows, maybe you'll find a little somethin' somethin' that strikes your fancy.

>> Dropbox :: This is my lifesaver! All of my design/blogging files are kept in Dropbox for easy access from home, work or on the go. Absolutely LOVE Dropbox.
>> Twitter, Facebook :: Pretty self-explanatory, love to stay connected.
>> Instagram :: I've been really bad at taking pictures lately but I love Instagram and all of the photo filters it offers. Not to mention, the social side of it that allows you to see all of your friends' pretty pictures too.
>> BabyCenter Pregnancy :: Well, I guess you know why this is my favorite of the moment. :) Not only is it the most user-friendly pregnancy app I've found but it's filled with great information. If you're expecting, I highly recommend this app.
>> Pinterest :: this app borders on an obsession for me.
>> PimpMyScreen :: Allowed me to have this super cute wallpaper on my phone.
>> Kindle :: Love that I can sync across all of my devices and read when I'm bored in a waiting room or at work...shh don't tell. ;)

So, I have to know, what are your favorite iPhone apps?

xo,

Bookmarked :: Design Edition

2011-09-06T12:04:00.000-07:00

{1} 34 Typographic Sins :: Obviously, no one is perfect and I have more than once broken a few of these rules. But it's still good practice to live by as a designer. Plus there are a few on here I didn't know about.

{2}What you need in your toolbox :: A wonderful article on Design Sponge so you're ready to DIY anything and everything.

{3} Beautiful Swear Words :: Typography...using swear words. Nothing short of genius.

{4} Win your own free art print! Enter here. :)

What did you bookmark this week?

xo,

Want to win a free art print? I KNOW YOU DO :)

2011-09-02T09:27:00.000-07:00

Enter to win an art print of your choice from my shop! All you have to do is visit @meags7827's blog for details!

Click to enter!

Good luck!

And happy Friday! :)

18 Weeks :: What's sleep, again?

2011-09-01T09:55:00.000-07:00

Coming off my worst night of sleep yet, I'm feeling pretty cranky today. So I'm going to bullet-point this beotch. YES, again.

Shitty sleep seems to be a mainstay and when I do get some shut eye I'm having dreams...actually, more like nightmares. And they all have a common theme: betrayal by the husband. Usually something to do with cheating or the like. But the other night I dreamt he joined a gang {not kidding}and all of his homies hated me and I told him if he didn't stop his life of crime I was going to divorce him. Then he said he's not quitting. I was still sad/pissed when I woke up. It's perfectly normal to be pissed at your husband for how he treated you in a dream, right?
I've been getting headaches pretty much on the daily. I'm drinking tons of water so I don't think I'm dehydrated. It may be lack of caffeine? I'm baffled.
Moving didn't do anything for my back--even though I barely did anything.
LET'S END THIS ON A HAPPY NOTE SHALL WE? Less than a week until we find out the sex and I can't wait!! :)

How far along? 18 weeks!
Size of baby: A sweet potato...5.6 inches, 6.7 ounces :)
Total weight gain/loss: +2. Bring on the gain!
Stretch marks? Nooooope.
Sleep: jalkdjfp;oeirul;akdgja.
Best moment this week: The three naps I was able to squeeze in after work on Monday through Wednesday.
Movement: I don't know. Sometimes when I lay a certain way I think I feel it.
Food cravings: Appetite is definitely back so ALL THINGS.
Sex: T minus six days.
Labor Signs: No.
Belly Button in or out? Innie.
What I miss: Just sleep. I would do pretty much anything for a full night at this point.
What I am looking forward to: Wednesday!
Weekly Wisdom: Don't be mad at your husband for what he does in your dreams.
Milestones: Belly is a'pokin' out.

17 Weeks :: Porn Star Boobs

2011-08-25T09:48:00.000-07:00

Just a few tidbits on this, the day of my 17th week. 17!! This is going by so fast.

I swear I felt butterflies in my tummy this morning around 4 a.m.
My boobs have never been so large. Like I'm going to be porn star status by the end of this pregnancy.
I've been living on quesadillas and frosted flakes because nothing else sounds good. Seriously, what's the deal? I though food aversions ended in the first trimester?
We are talking names... and we've decided on a girls name. The boys name has been trickier but we have a few contenders.
13 days until we {hopefully} find out the sex! Please cooperate, baby G!
Still haven't gained a pound.

How far along? 17 wiggity weeks
Size of baby: An onion - 5.1 inches, 5.9 ounces :)
Total weight gain/loss: Nada.
Stretch marks? Thought I spotted some on my boobs this morning but false alarm! Just sleep marks. Thank goodness.
Sleep: Crap.
Best moment this week: Just reflecting and trying to enjoy this pregnancy with all my might.
Movement: Maybe? Can't wait until it becomes more frequent!
Food cravings: Nothing. Which makes me so sad. :(
Sex: Find out in 13 days. :)
Labor Signs: Negative.
Belly Button in or out? In!
What I miss: Sleep. If I could just sleep well...just one night...I would be such a happy camper.
What I am looking forward to: 13 days, decorating the nursery aaand going to bed tonight. Ha.
Weekly Wisdom: Don't plan a move in the middle of your pregnancy, you'll be useless.
Milestones: Movement, perhaps?

*can't wait to see what kind of google searches bring people to this post. Bahaha.

16 Weeks :: I'm surprised I haven't forgotten my own name

2011-08-18T09:41:00.000-07:00

Pregnancy brain is all in my, ahem, brain? Like hell it is. I can't remember a time in my life when I've felt dumber. Not even the time I took Cognitive Psychology as a sophomore and had no business in that class. I'm forgetting things, staring at pages for obscene amounts of time to try to figure out what it says, etc. I literally can't remember words that I use in my everyday vocabulary. Like yesterday it was allegiance. And a time before that it was stellar. Ok, maybe I don't use allegiance and stellar on a daily basis, but for shits sake I know those words! Of course, I googled other womens' experiences with so called "pregnancy brain" and I know I'm not alone. Just trying not to forget that.

So on that note... I'm 16 weeks! Yay!

How far along? 16 weeks.
Size of baby: Avocado time. One of my favorite foods!
Total weight gain/loss: I'm still at my starting weight. Hopefully the gain will start this week.
Stretch marks? Nope.
Sleep: It's not good. It's hard for me to fall back to sleep after I wake up and I'm waking up at least three times a night to pee. Tell me it gets better. TELL ME.
Best moment this week: Starting to poke out a little belly. Gets me excited. :)
Movement: I could of sworn I felt something two nights ago. It didn't feel like anything else I've felt before and I haven't felt it since.
Food cravings: Nothing really. And honestly, most food doesn't sound good. Like meat? Blech. I'm eating smaller, more frequent meals because I get full so fast now but really... I'm surprised I'm not craving weird shit. Like doritos dipped in vanilla ice cream with a pickle.
Sex: T minus 3 weeks until we find out!
Labor Signs: No!
Belly Button in or out? In in in.
What I miss: SLEEP.
What I am looking forward to: Our next appointment. Buying things. Moving and starting the nursery.
Weekly Wisdom: All you have to do is tell one friend in each circle of work/friends that you don't prefer to have your belly touched and the word spreads. Take note.
Milestones: Movement? Or gas? I guess we'll find out soon enough.

I don't get it

2011-08-15T03:00:00.000-07:00

The obsession with How I Met Your Mother.

I'm sorry, I don't understand. I've tried watching episodes...multiple episodes and all I get from it is predictable humor and bad acting. Not to mention Barney is the most unbelievable character as NPH is my main gay.

Chipotle.

It's gross. I've been three times, each time ordering something different and the food is just plain awful. It's not Mexican food and I don't understand why so many people love it.

Ryan Gosling.

I'm sorry but I don't think this...

is very attractive. Not in the slightest.

Riots.

What's the deal, England? I've watched numerous news reports, read many articles and I can't for the life of me find any freaking reason--not one--as to why you're rioting. I understand it's the youth and they're unemployed and they're using it as an excuse to run wild like vigilantes but it needs to STOP. Like, now.

But in the spirit of keeping shit positive, watch this video with water in your mouth and let me know at what point you spit it all out from laughing. :)

15 Weeks :: Growing Baby G

2011-08-11T09:41:00.000-07:00

15 weeks!!! Holy wow. Our second appointment was scheduled for Tuesday but our doctor got called to an emergency c-section so we were rescheduled for the next day. It went really well, we got to listen to Baby G's heartbeat and talk to the doctor for a little bit. So far I really, really love him. And so does everyone else apparently because anyone who asks who our doctor is RAVES about him. Which makes me so happy. Baby G is in good hands.

Plus! We get to find out the sex on September 7th! That's in like, less than a month, people!!! We are stoked. I know a lot of people like to be surprised but honestly, it's a surprise either way. My fellow pregnant lady, Shannon wrote a really good post about it here. I agree with every word.

Oh, I took pictures of myself and in putting them all together, I really need to work on my angles. I look way bigger in week 13 than in week 15. Plus I should probably use a real camera and not my MacBook. Whatever. Here they are anyway. Judge free zone, people.

How far along? 15 weeks. Only 25 weeks to go!
Size of baby: A navel orange. 4 inches, 2.5 ounces.
Total weight gain/loss: According to the scale at the doctor's office I've lost a pound. So I'm at my starting weight which is uber surprising because I'M EATING EVERYTHING IN SIGHT.
Stretch marks? No, knockity knock knock.
Sleep: It's up and down. Some nights are really, really good while others suck.
Best moment this week: Hearing the little heartbeat.
Movement: Not yet. Should be soon ish though!
Food cravings: Surprisingly, not this week.
Sex: Find out September 7th!
Labor Signs: Negative.
Belly Button in or out? Innie.
What I miss: Same things, although not nearly as bad as before.
What I am looking forward to: Finding out the sex :) Buying things. Moving and getting the nursery started. So many things!
Weekly Wisdom: Still loving the body pillow.
Milestones: Second appointment!

Brittany, lately

2011-08-08T15:01:00.000-07:00

Hi. Miss me? My life has been pretty low-key lately as we gear up for the big move and have nothing but baby Garner on the mind--and the blog has definitely reflected that...a whole lot of nothing and a few baby posts. But that's life, ya know? Up and down, round and round. I'm sure I'll be back sooner rather than later.

I have been inhaling books as of late. More specifically, the entire Sookie Stackhouse series. Which reaaally makes me want to get HBO to watch TrueBlood. Really really. Have you read them?

Can we talk about something awesome? Spotify. Um, hello, how is this not illegal? IT IS SO AMAZING. My favorite part is being able to share playlists and subscribe to other people's awesome playlists. So genius and so user friendly. I'm in love. It only took about a week to get my invite after signing up. DO IT.

On another "obsessed with" note, PINTEREST. Completely in love. So much so that I've pretty much got my nursery plans mapped out. Well, depending a little bit on the sex of the little one.

Source: babystrokesteps.blogspot.com via Audrey on Pinterest

Source: vintageglamorous.blogspot.com via brittany on Pinterest

Source: e-tells-tales.blogspot.com via brittany on Pinterest

I MUST have a wiener lamp. It's a necessity.

I hope you all had a good weekend! xo

14 Weeks :: One-third of the way there

2011-08-04T10:04:00.000-07:00

It's insane to think I'm already over one-third of the way through this pregnancy. I have been taking pictures of my belly every week {with my webcam, so don't expect high quality} but I've yet to even look at them, let alone think about posting them. But I'm sure I will. ANYWAY, let's get the deets...

How far along? 14 weeks, yo.
Size of baby: A little lemon.
Total weight gain/loss: up approximately 3 pounds.
Stretch marks? Noooope.
Sleep: Sucky. But I think it's good practice. At least, that's the attitude I"m trying to adapt.
Best moment this week: ?
Movement: Not yet but I. Can't. Wait
Food cravings: This week it's been sushi...which makes me sad.
Sex: Don't know yet. :)
Labor Signs: Negative.
Belly Button in or out? In.
What I miss: The same ol' things. I don't want to sound like a broken record.
What I am looking forward to: Our second appointment on Tuesday. Buying things for the nursery. Feeling movement.
Weekly Wisdom: THE BODY PILLOW IS MY SAVIOR.
Milestones: Tyler has officially started rubbing and talking to the belly. He always make sure to say "bye, little baby" before he leaves for work. :)

Happy Birthday, Tyler!

2011-07-29T03:00:00.000-07:00

My dear husband turns 25 today. Which means I've been there for five of his birthdays now. Crazy talk.

For his 20th, we had been dating about nine months. We had a party a his house with a bunch of friends. I barely remember that night but from what I do, it was pretty wild. Just look at that expression on his face. HA.

Tyler was newly 21 in San Diego in this picture. It was a family vacay but he found time to enjoy his newly 21 self. :)

His 22nd was spent in Vegas! We stayed at the cheapest possible hotel on the strip and because it was his birthday we got upgraded to a suite. Sweet, right? Until we got to the room and walked through the door straight back into the '80s. It was on the side of hotel that had yet to be renovated with mirrors on basically every square inch and the largest bath tub "spa" we've ever seen. We had so much fun though.

23 in Reno! This was a fun little trip just the two of us. :)

24 and getting sung to! He really loved it, if you couldn't tell.

And now my man is a quarter century. Holy crap, where does the time go?

I love you, Tyler! HAPPY BIRTHDAY!!!

13 Weeks :: Continuing the baby makin'

2011-07-28T10:41:00.000-07:00

One site (babycenter.com) is telling me I still have a week to go until my second trimester, while another site (thebump.com) said my second trimester starts today. Color me confused.

How far along?13 weeks.
Size of baby: A peach!
Total weight gain/loss: +2 pounds.
Stretch marks? Nada...yet.
Sleep: It's ok. There have been a few nights I've slept through the night....then had to dash to the bathroom because I was literally going to pee my pants.
Best moment this week: We got a card from my parents in the mail. It was so sweet and my mom wrote how she was so excited to be a grandma. Brought a tear to my eye.
Movement: Not yet. Anxious for it though!
Food cravings: Nothing on the reg. But I sometimes crave random things that Tyler then has to bring home.
Sex: Don't know yet!
Labor Signs: Oh no no no.
Belly Button in or out? In!
What I miss: Let's be real. I just want a drink.
What I am looking forward to: Our next appointment!
Weekly Wisdom: Sleep is heaven. Get as much as possible.
Milestones: Had my blood test last weekend {I'm terrified of needles and blood and hospital settings, good news since I'm pregnant, right? Ugh.} and I didn't faint! Probably just because I didn't even look at the needle in my arm, but still.

Bookmarked :: Random Edition

2011-07-26T13:25:00.000-07:00

There is so much information out there, sometimes I try to remember where I saw a certain idea and search and search and search for it again--but can't find it. Well, that stops now. Here are some of the things I should bookmark, but won't. Will want to reference later, but can't. This is my attempt to remember without cluttering up my browser bookmarks.

re: Babies

Erin did a really cool post on how to make and store baby food. Tyler and I will for sure be doing this.
Mrs. In Training did a super informative post entitled Shit you need as a new mom. Thank you very much.

re: Organization // DIY

I Heart Organizing {one of my favorite organization blogs} wrote about kitchen cabinet storage. And with a looming move, I'm looking for all the help I can get.
Alycia of The Curious Pug did a post with blog post ideas. No more excuses!
Just thought this was cool, from How About Orange, how to make little gift boxes out of paint swatches.
Recycle your kitchen mat. Definitely going to attempt this.

re: Hilarity

Mrs. Monologues, who is at the top of my badass list, has done a whole Faux Pas series that I LOVE. Check out all of the different ones: Facebook, Blogger, Twitter, Movie Theater. And if you're doing any of these things, CEASE AND DESIST.
Katy Mary of Tangerine Hearts' posts entitled What the Fug?! They make me laugh out loud every time.

re: Etsy

Leigh Ashley did an incredible post on how she maintains her successful Etsy shop. A great read for anyone with an Etsy shop.

12 Weeks :: First trimester, check!

2011-07-21T09:32:00.000-07:00

Does 12 weeks mark the beginning of the second trimester or is it the last week in the first trimester? I'm confused.

Nothing really to report this week. Just feeling fatter and more excited that we are already a third of the way through the pregnancy. CRAZY! I finally got the nerve to take belly pictures which I may or may not post. We'll see after a couple weeks of it.

How far along? 12 weeks.
Size of baby: A plum.
Total weight gain/loss: Not sure but feeling heavier by the day.
Stretch marks? Nope.
Sleep: Crap. I've started wearing a sports bra to bed because they are so sore so that's curbed waking up due to sore boobs but still waking up to pee.
Best moment this week: Feeling how hard my tummy is getting.
Movement: Not yet.
Food cravings: No real cravings. Just food and lots of it.
Sex: Not yet. :)
Labor Signs: Nooope.
Belly Button in or out? Innie.
What I miss: The same ol' things. I couldn't drink at my cousin's wedding, that was kind of a bummer. But pretty funny to watch all the drunkards while sober. Oh well.
What I am looking forward to: Next appointment, growing belly, feeling movement. :)
Weekly Wisdom: The belly touching is going to happen. You just have to deal with it.
Milestones: I dipped my popcorn in the frosting from my cupcake yesterday. IT WAS DELICIOUS. I'd say that's a pregnancy milestone.

You Challenge :: Nine Loves

2011-07-19T10:33:00.000-07:00

DAY TWO.
nine loves.

{ 1 } My husband. Of course.

{ 2 } Our little nugget.

{ 3 } Our pups.

{ 4 } My crazy family.

{ 5 } My amazing friends.

{ 6 } Design. If I didn't have this creative outlet I'm pretty sure I would be going absolutely nuts with my post-grad life right now.

{ 7 } Social media. Ok, it's more of a love/hate. But at the moment, it's a love.

{ 8 } My iPhone. I'm not sure what I would do without it. The wedding I was in over the weekend was in the middle of nowhere--which means no cell service. IT WAS WEIRD.

{ 9 } ALL OF YOU. Not sure what I would do without you. :)

10 Day You Challenge :: secrets, secrets, secrets

2011-07-15T03:00:00.000-07:00

Found this via Krystal but have no clue where it originated from. If you started this little gem, let me know and I'll link a sista {or brotha?} up.

DAY ONE.
ten secrets.

{ 1 } I'm a natural brunette. But maybe you knew that.

{ 2 } I have a scar on my right cheek from when I was in a car accident in the first grade. No, I wasn't driving.

{ 3 } If it weren't for Tyler, I'm pretty sure I would be a full-blown hermit. I love staying home and would much prefer that to going out, any day.

{ 4 } A palm reader once told me that I appear extroverted on the surface but the real me is more introverted. Truth.

{ 5 } I really don't like sweets, except for that random craving of chocolate cake I've been getting lately...

{ 6 } I've never been more comfortable with my body than right now. Being pregnant has allowed me to stop worrying about that little pudge around my midsection because the little one needs me to grow so it can grow. It's a weird paradox. I hope I can try to accept myself more post-baby.

{ 7 } I go through social media mood swings. Some days I can't get enough, others I can't stand it and stay away all together. These phases usually last weeks at a time.

{ 8 } I have a huge travel bug in me but haven't been able to fuel that flame. I've been to the east coast a handful of times, on a few cruises, and driven up and down the west coast but that's it. I hope to change that in the future.

{ 9 } I think first impressions are everything--whether in person or online. If I don't get a good feeling about you off the bat, I don't bother to get to know you.

{ 10 } I never ever thought I would be married and pregnant at 24 but life doesn't really give a shit what I had planned. I do believe everything happens for a reason.

Now it's your turn! I would love to read your posts.

11 Weeks: The world now knows. Finally.

2011-07-14T03:00:00.000-07:00

FINALLY THE SECRET IS OUT. So glad that monkey is off my back. Thank you all for your congratulations and well-wishes, it's made me feel all warm and tingly inside. I back-posted all of the things I wrote during the first few weeks of my pregnancy (and despite my effort, they still showed up in Reader, sorry about that).

The first appointment went swimmingly. Love our doctor and love his staff. The official estimated due date is February 2. I'm becoming more used to the idea of sharing my birth month and hoping my the time this little nugget arrives I'll be in love with the idea. ;)

How far along? 11 weeks!
Size of baby: The size of a lime.
Total weight gain/loss: I was sure I had gained at least 5 pounds. But when I hopped on the scale at the doctor's office I was only up 1 pound. Weird.
Stretch marks? Not yet. Eeeek.
Sleep: Getting better. Still waking up 98475 times to go pee though.
Best moment this week: The doctor's appointment and getting to see the little munchkin moving and dancing around.
Movement: Just what I saw on the ultrasound screen. :)
Food cravings: Lately not so much.
Sex: Not until 20 weeks?! Bah.
Labor Signs: Nope.
Belly Button in or out? In.
What I miss: Still the same things plus sushi. I could really go for a Gilroy Roll right now.
What I am looking forward to: Feeling movement.
Weekly Wisdom: Announcing the pregnancy and hearing all of the well wishes from friends and family is an experience unlike any other. I just feel so warm and fuzzy. Enjoy it.
Milestones: Got the first appointment under our belt.

So yeah, I'm pregnant.

2011-07-13T03:00:00.000-07:00

You think you're surprised? Try coming to the realization that yes, one wild night will lead to an itty bitty heartbeat. :) Take note, sixteen-year-olds.

One of the main reasons I've been so MIA is because this has been the ONLY THING ON MY MIND. And it's hard to blog and tweet when you can't blog or tweet about the one thing you want to share, ya know? But now the world knows. :)

I took the pregnancy tests on June 1st. I couldn't believe what I saw. Obviously, we know what we did to get in to this position and while we thought we wanted to wait, we are seriously so excited now that reality has sunk in. We know how lucky we are to be in this position so we are embracing it. And little baby Garner has a lot of admirers already, we just feel so lucky.

right after we saw 'pregnant'

I've been writing each week about my experience. I back-posted them on the real days they were written hoping not to flood your readers, hope it worked. My week by week updates can be found here.

SURPRISE!!!!

2011-07-12T11:48:00.000-07:00

That's little baby Garner. About 10.5 weeks. Due February 2, 2012.

:)

10 weeks: things I've learned so far

2011-07-07T09:30:00.001-07:00

Ok. I'm getting really freaking anxious to tell people. And for the appointment. And for just about everything else you can think of. Our appointment is on Tuesday, 7/12 and I'm excited to learn new things. In reading all of these pregnancy books and websites, I have to say, there is soooooooo much I did not know:

1. Why is our first appointment not until week 10? That seems like way too long. AND IT FEELS WAY TOO LONG ALSO.

2. Going off the people we have told, 93 percent want to touch my belly. Why? Do I have to get used to this? I'm still a person, people, I have boundary issues.

3. I understand that What to Expect When You're Expecting is the pregnancy bible but... I'm having a hard time with it. More often than not I feel myself freaking out with all of the scary shit that hides within those pages. Like if I get a pedicure don't let the lady rub between my ankle bone and heel because it could start contractions?! My toes are going to be look like shit for about 7 more months I suppose.

4. I'm tired all the time. That's not an exaggeration. Since going back to work there have been countless times where I've caught myself dozing at my desk.

5. MY BOOBS ARE GINORMOUS.

6. People are always happy when they hear baby news. The smiles and congratulations really are priceless. I kind of wish I could bottle that feeling and save it for when I feel down in the future.

How far along? 10 weeks!
Size of baby: A prune. The only prune I'll ever like.
Total weight gain/loss: Still no scale on the to buy list. I feel SO big though. I bet I've gained 4 pounds.
Stretch marks? Negative.
Sleep: Iffy. Sometimes it's good, sometimes it's bad but it almost always include 1-2 trips the bathroom in the middle of the night.
Best moment this week: Telling my best friends. They are going to make great aunties. :)
Movement: Just bloating. Wah.
Food cravings: I craved a donut the other day. Reallll healthy, ya know.
Sex: Not yet.
Labor Signs: Nooo.
Belly Button in or out? In
What I miss: Drinking on the fourth.
What I am looking forward to: Our appointment!!
Weekly Wisdom: I need to sleep more. Fo sho.
Milestones: I see a little bump... :)

9 weeks :: It's not all sunshine and lollipops

2011-06-30T08:59:00.000-07:00

The last two weeks have been hard. There's a lot on my plate lately and all I want to do is curl up in a ball and sleep. I know it's important to keep a positive, stress-free environment for the baby but sometimes shit just isn't all la-di-da perfect. We are stressing. We are stressing about finding a new place to live, having the money to move, buying a new car, affording a tiny human and on top of it all I have family obligations, a job and a design business to stay on top of. All of this stress is putting a strain on Tyler and I's relationship too. A time when we should be the closest, feels like the opposite. It's just hard. And I know that it will all work itself out. Maybe it's my hormones but this shit is just weighing on me as of late. I hope it gets better very soon.

How far along? 9 weeks.
Size of baby: Almost an inch!
Total weight gain/loss: Still need to buy a scale... definitely feel like I've gained though.
Stretch marks? Nope.
Sleep: Awful.
Best moment this week: Telling my best friends the news. :)
Movement: Nope.
Food cravings: I had a major craving for queso dip from this mexican restaurant we love yesterday...the wonderful hubby obliged.
Sex: Any guesses?
Labor Signs: Um no.
Belly Button in or out? In. And staying there if I have anything to do with it.
What I miss: I could go for a margarita. Or six.
What I am looking forward to: THE FIRST APPOINTMENT.
Weekly Wisdom: Just breathe.
Milestones: Naaaaah.

7 weeks :: I'm a pregnancy viking

2011-06-16T09:56:00.000-07:00

Written on 6/16/11.
We still haven't told very many people. We're holding off because we're scared something horrible might happen... bad, I know. I keep having visions of going to the doctor, them doing the sonogram and saying um, you're not pregnant... IRRATIONAL, I KNOW. My brain is one fat stack of irrational, sprinkled with stress at this point.

I haven't had morning sickness {knock knock} and I've been reading baby books and websites non-stop. I can't decide if I'm just feeling knowledgeable or downright freaked the eff out...there's a lot of scary shit that could happen. I did find one website that I particularly enjoy-Alphamom and more specifically the Pregnancy Calendar. Her lighthearted take on everything makes pregnancy much more enjoyable if I do say so myself. For example, she gave me a teensy ego boost in the week 7 entry:

Some women don’t have a ton of symptoms in early pregnancy. Or any! This doesn’t mean your body isn’t producing and doubling pregnancy hormones at the proper rate. It just means your body is TOLERATING the doubling pregnancy hormones better. Basically: you’re a pregnancy viking! You win and the rest of us miserable saps fail.

I get it from my momma?

Anyway, here's how things are shaping up. :)

How far along? 7 weeks.
Size of baby: Blueberry! My fave. ;)
Total weight gain/loss: On the to do list: buy a new scale.
Stretch marks? No ho ho.
Sleep: DOWNRIGHT SHITTY. I think it's stress, Tyler thinks it's the prenatals...whatever it is, it sucks and all I want are my Z's.
Best moment this week: I told my grandpa he was going to be a great grandpa. That was pretty great.
Movement: Nope.
Food cravings: One day I really wanted mac and cheese. NOM.
Sex: Not applicable, yo.
Labor Signs: Uh, no.
Belly Button in or out? In.
What I miss: Still coffee. And wine.
What I am looking forward to: Our first appointment. And being able to tell everyone!
Weekly Wisdom: This is more like a reminder... Goal is to go to the gym and moderately work out three times a week. Got that, Brittany? THREE TIMES A WEEK.
Milestones: Tyler bought us a crib already. The dude is excited.

What's been happening in BG-land?

2011-06-14T03:00:00.000-07:00

Lots and lots, actually. And it's really affecting my tweeting. Rude.

The living sitch.
We are looking for a new place. We currently reside in a 2/1 apartment complete with college-brown carpet and old ass appliances. I'm not complaining, really. This place has been good to us and our landlords are saints. But, we are in need of more space for a few reasons, mostly because my little brother will be living with us for his first year of college and we just need space.

My tele.
I finally bit the bullet and upgraded to the iPhone 4. I was getting tired of charging my 3GS every four hours, seriously ridiculous and annoying. And also getting tired of waiting for the next version. So helloooo beautiful white iPhone 4. Still searching for the perfect phone case though. Suggestions?

I'm a bridesmaid!
My cousin, Gabby is getting married in July and she last minute decided that I (and Tyler!) needed to be in the wedding. I was happy to oblige. This is my first time being a bridesmaid! I'm stoked. Love her and love her fiance, so happy to be a part of their big day.

Family.
My brother graduated high school so there's been a bunch of family in town. Including my oldest younger brother, Steven, who just went on terminal leave from the Army! He'll be moving to Phoenix in a couple weeks but he's in town visiting, with his wife Crystal, until then. Woo! As for my brother's graduation? Well, I was a proud older sis to say the least.

Happy graduation day to my little brother!

2011-06-10T03:00:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my youngest brother is graduating from high school today. Seems like just yesterday I was protecting him from the other two who used to pick on him incessantly.

Congratulations, Eric! We are so proud of you!