tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-29483272670715215022024-02-06T23:50:01.308-06:00House of HydrangeasUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger522125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-38483546144235857382017-07-05T10:44:00.004-05:002017-07-05T10:44:52.015-05:00Up Up And Away- Take Two (And Three)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<br />We took our second family flight this past June. We took the earliest flight out so we had to wake up at 4:00am to get everything ready. I had all of the girls' stuff ready and laid out so we only woke them five minutes before we left at 5:00 am. Rollins is our late sleeper so I thought she would for sure fall back asleep in the car on the way to the airport. Nope. Auden, who is typically my early riser (with the sunrise), fell asleep instead. I guess Rollins knew something was up and was too excited to miss anything. She didn't fall asleep until we were 10 minutes from our friends' house in Dallas. Meanwhile, Auden fell asleep again on the plane. Proof that you can never predict what toddlers will do during travel days. </div>
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Auden
loved getting to use her new suitcase and travel backpack (that daddy
so graciously attached to his luggage for her). We got quite a few comments from those passing by :) The bags worked well, held a good bit of clothes and were definitely easy to spot! Thank you Amazon Prime!</div>
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Auden had a semi Take Your Daughter to Work Day, and it was so cute. She loved getting to go to the airport WITH her daddy since he's always going by himself for trips.</div>
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Early morning smiles are hard. Haha.</div>
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Rollins had Chick-fil-a chicken minis for the first time and was clearly in heaven.</div>
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I snapped a few shots from my phone once we got on the plane. It's hard to believe that the last time we all flew together Rollins was only a 6-month-old!<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdB0p8NzZ2B9DJ_YhNd2aC9L5laPe8WT13pFDxaForpfDySVfyNT2ndwatGKB55a0bzN9-zQm25UxN7zl9HsrDwbJE41IH_eXtoL8ZvGaeTD_k1FhaudBceYAovhYtu9ihwbvjXJsMrLmu/s640/IMG_3050.JPG" width="640" /> </div>
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My seat partner, who didn't sleep a lick on the flight. </div>
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I suppose she was too engrossed in the clouds. :)<img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSfk0EK22xbod-203niSC__x5rn3L_F_wnXqr0iRFFKArCfOUzIo8QkBADug7q5f05DO1LGahmBVUThq3dNGwz9MeDVHa_GBMolxSQwnQhkW3YYffrdTjE-59ZanxTzBNBJRmEp9C_7vHK/s640/IMG_3069.JPG" width="640" /></div>
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We had a great visit with sweet friends and the week flew by far too quickly. On the way back, I flew solo with the girls because Jon had a trip himself. We survived (after missing the bag check-in window by 2 minutes and getting bumped to the next flight leaving 3 hours later).<br />
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Face palm.<br />
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With the help of a friend (shout-out to Noel who came back to pick us up once she heard the news), we made the best of the situation and managed to secure the last few seats on the next flight. <br />
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As we trudged down the
aisle to the very last row, strangers offered smiles, encouragement and even assistance in putting away our overhead baggage so I could get the girls to their seats. There are still good people in this world, and I'm convinced traveling with small children will either magnify or discredit that. Thankfully, for us, it wasn't the latter of the two.<br />
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We survived on graham crackers, dinner (I grabbed Subway before we boarded the plane) and a few downloaded shows from Netflix (thanks for the tip Aunt Bek!) </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWVWe1C_oKGhwPXMUtEM-WhA0ptrw_h5ljWSkBf2xbCAjKgznuI1ImimtGoy3RJR8hMjGZNzXy4EyOcnpeooCs-YBta0BFEKAD5VJatIVWqF6GsZuIp-FtSsASBRMieUn8hfrr7PdwncTS/s1600/IMG_3133.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhWVWe1C_oKGhwPXMUtEM-WhA0ptrw_h5ljWSkBf2xbCAjKgznuI1ImimtGoy3RJR8hMjGZNzXy4EyOcnpeooCs-YBta0BFEKAD5VJatIVWqF6GsZuIp-FtSsASBRMieUn8hfrr7PdwncTS/s640/IMG_3133.JPG" width="480" /></a></div>
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It was a bit of a challenge getting everyone, their things, the stroller and my checked bag from the terminal all the way to the employee parking lot, but we made it and Auden was such a trooper and help! I then had a bit of an issue trying to exit the parking lot gate with Jon's pass. But after getting ahold of him (thank you Jesus!) we got out, and were on our way home!<br />
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At that point, I was beyond beat down. And much to my, and especially Auden's, delight we saw a rainbow! "Mom, I've never seen one in the sky before!" she exclaimed after spotting it. It was a great reminder of God's promises at just the time my married, single-parent mommy heart needed it.<br />
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All chaos aside, we had a wonderful trip and are very grateful for the ability to travel such long distances for free (assuming there is a standby seat) :)<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-64681702450464732012016-05-18T00:00:00.001-05:002016-05-18T16:54:45.631-05:00Today<style>
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Today has been one of those days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not a horrible day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I’ve certainly had worse in my life, but it was a trying day
nonetheless.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And when you have
trying day after trying day, you just start to feel beat down. But it seems not
many people talk about those days.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>A friend of mine did tonight, and it was like a breath of fresh
air.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So as I was lying in bed
feeling her pain and remembering my own, I decided to write.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For anyone else that can relate.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>For anyone else that might read this
and think “Yes!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I’m there too.”</div>
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Before I say anything else, let me say that I know how
blessed I am.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I know that on the
outside, my life could look amazing.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>I have a great husband who works so hard to provide for his family, a
beautiful home to bring us shelter, two healthy daughters...<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And you’re right.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It is great.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I’m sure on the outside everything looks wonderful. But sometimes,
on the inside, on days like today, it’s also very lonely and very defeating.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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Today my husband woke up, albeit before the rest of us, and
got to go to work, with real adults, eat something more than a sandwich for
lunch, fly over the beautiful beaches, have some moments of thought all to
himself... </div>
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I woke up almost with the sun thanks to my toddler that
seems to recently find it fun to rise earlier and earlier every morning.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I made meals, I cleaned up messes, I
did laundry, I taught manners, I even attempted to take a work call.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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But the little one started fussing and the older one kept
walking into the office to “play” with things that weren’t toys, disobeying my
pleas and returning with a bath cup full of water, that I’m still not sure was
from the faucet or the toilet.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Then
it’s on to trying to get the infant to open her mouth for her new solid foods
and listening to the toddler cry because her snack cup wasn’t filled all the
way to the top.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And heaven forbid
we brush her teeth before nap (like we do. EVERY. DAY).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I could go on, but I’ll spare you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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“Is this really my life?“ I think to myself, and probably
out loud sometimes. I was the top of my class in high school and college.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I had lofty dreams.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And here I am pursuing my passions in
fleeting moments of naptimes and bedtimes and preschool hours (assuming the
little one naps).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And I just want
to be good.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To do it well.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>All of it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being a wife.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Being a mom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being a
business woman.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Being a sane
adult.</div>
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And then Jon gets home from work and the perfectionist side
of me wonders if I’ve failed.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If
he thinks I haven’t accomplished anything all day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If he thinks I’m being a good enough wife, a good enough mom.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Am I being what I need for
everyone?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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The answer is “no” (not because he told me, but because I’m
no fool).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I never will be what I
need to be for everyone, all the time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>And I have to try to let that go.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>The biggest battle is truly with myself. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The irrational goals I set for myself will never be
attained.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And that’s okay. That’s
okay.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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And you know what?<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Tomorrow is new and so too are His mercies…in spite of my failures.</div>
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“The days are long but the years are short” they say.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And they’re right. Tonight, as I was
cleaning out some pictures from my phone, I came across some old ones of both
of my girls as babies and my heart nearly burst. Oh how the time has disappeared
in the blink of an eye. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I try to
constantly tell myself to take it all in.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>To enjoy each moment (minus the tantrums).<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To breathe.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Because they will only be older tomorrow.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Being a mom is hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Because being a stay-at-home mom is hard.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>And in my opinion, being a stay-at-home working mom is even
harder because you feel like you’re never fully succeeding at one title or the
other.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
This is my life right now, but I know this won’t be my life
forever. </div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
And tomorrow I will try again. I will try again to love my
babies well, to make my husband feel appreciated, to finally finish that item
on the to do list, to make time for myself.</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
So here’s to that.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>To finding the joy.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To
powering through.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To not letting
go of those dreams…for them but also for you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Our efforts aren’t lost momma’s.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We aren’t alone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Tomorrow is a new day. </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-42628671402908296212015-06-22T11:13:00.002-05:002015-06-22T11:17:54.844-05:00Maternity Style<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjClEuvpV5f1XoNj-2FZ6ep0AnRy5kUTe2KTvoRtBCbHupaLHMbWhvj3DXq7akw553snQYkOqz29fzfgmd1l0uRxlraVzJ8QpGnxiJrwFe1MkJvTqSR70xK3tcJma91ghdZPArwj6Tah6_a/s1600/casual+summer+maternity+outfit.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjClEuvpV5f1XoNj-2FZ6ep0AnRy5kUTe2KTvoRtBCbHupaLHMbWhvj3DXq7akw553snQYkOqz29fzfgmd1l0uRxlraVzJ8QpGnxiJrwFe1MkJvTqSR70xK3tcJma91ghdZPArwj6Tah6_a/s640/casual+summer+maternity+outfit.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.stelladot.com/shop/en_us/p/rebel-pendant?color=gold" target="_blank">one</a> // <a href="http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/michael-kors-womens-chronograph-runway-gold-tone-stainless-steel-bracelet-watch-38mm-mk5055?ID=281388&pla_country=US&CAGPSPN=pla&CAWELAID=120156340000393253&cm_mmc=Google_Watches_PLA-_-Watches_Michael+Kors_Womens+Watches_GS_Michael+Kors-_-57386324451_-_-_mkwid_sUmbBU0yc%7Cdc_57386324451%7C-%7CUmbBU0yc" target="_blank">two</a> // <a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=549640002" target="_blank">three</a> // <a href="http://www.motherhood.com/Product.asp?Product_Id=96120Z20291&MasterCategory_Id=MC27?ORANGE" target="_blank">four</a> // <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/shop/en_us/p/nancy-studs?color=gold" target="_blank">five</a> // <a href="http://bananarepublic.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=2889350320007&cid=1034844" target="_blank">six</a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
If I'm being honest, most days I can just stay in my pajamas (one perk to being a stay-at-home working mom). But on the days that I have meetings or get out to run errands, I still like to look put together (without breaking the bank on maternity clothes that I'll only wear for a few months). </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
To me, the best things to splurge on while pregnant are jewelry and shoes. Those are things you can (hopefully) still wear after baby is born. With that being said, here's my errand outfit for the day. Pardon Remington's photobomb and our unmade bed :)<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglh2B_eKaYFXafCE8oiHl_FraIHeiHrPQ26CjGK-AB3c1hP953KTfmBShf0bnz0e3Ph4egg5bD2SgdOdcj6I6vo0v2OJbSKkxZ7y-iYbHTJT-zj7n7VF8jo5Ov0bfjX7OgdkUf4pQyoYoD/s1600/FullSizeRender.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglh2B_eKaYFXafCE8oiHl_FraIHeiHrPQ26CjGK-AB3c1hP953KTfmBShf0bnz0e3Ph4egg5bD2SgdOdcj6I6vo0v2OJbSKkxZ7y-iYbHTJT-zj7n7VF8jo5Ov0bfjX7OgdkUf4pQyoYoD/s640/FullSizeRender.jpg" width="380" /></a></div>
<br />
I got the top for $6 during a promotion (it's now $10--still great) and the jeans are on clearance for less than $25! Here are the rest of the pieces:</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.stelladot.com/shop/en_us/p/rebel-pendant?color=gold" target="_blank">one</a>- The Rebel Pendant by Stella & Dot is one of my daily go-to pieces because it adds a little flair and can be dressed up or down. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www1.macys.com/shop/product/michael-kors-womens-chronograph-runway-gold-tone-stainless-steel-bracelet-watch-38mm-mk5055?ID=281388&pla_country=US&CAGPSPN=pla&CAWELAID=120156340000393253&cm_mmc=Google_Watches_PLA-_-Watches_Michael+Kors_Womens+Watches_GS_Michael+Kors-_-57386324451_-_-_mkwid_sUmbBU0yc%7Cdc_57386324451%7C-%7CUmbBU0yc" target="_blank">two</a>- I've had this watch for six years now, and I still love it. </div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?vid=1&pid=549640002" target="_blank">three</a>- Today is the first day I've worn this tee, and I can already tell it will be a favorite throughout the remainder of my pregnancy. It's comfortable and flattering!</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.motherhood.com/Product.asp?Product_Id=96120Z20291&MasterCategory_Id=MC27?ORANGE" target="_blank">four</a>- These coral jeans can make any outfit fun and the color is perfect for summer.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://www.stelladot.com/shop/en_us/p/nancy-studs?color=gold" target="_blank">five</a>- These Nancy Studs by Stella & Dot are another daily favorite. Simple and classic.</div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<a href="http://bananarepublic.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=2889350320007&cid=1034844" target="_blank">six</a>- I actually got these flip flops at the end of last summer, but they are back! The leather strap and gold color dresses them up from a standard flip flop, and they pair well with any outfit. Plus, they're currently on sale for $32. </div>
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<a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D2948327267071521502%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-kUF8cPGWTlA%2FVYgv0RRQLYI%2FAAAAAAAAGFA%2Fe90XH4sV-GU%2Fs640%2Fcasual%252Bsummer%252Bmaternity%252Boutfit.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D2948327267071521502%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-kUF8cPGWTlA%2FVYgv0RRQLYI%2FAAAAAAAAGFA%2Fe90XH4sV-GU%2Fs640%2Fcasual%252Bsummer%252Bmaternity%252Boutfit.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D2948327267071521502%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-kUF8cPGWTlA%2FVYgv0RRQLYI%2FAAAAAAAAGFA%2Fe90XH4sV-GU%2Fs640%2Fcasual%252Bsummer%252Bmaternity%252Boutfit.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D2948327267071521502%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-kUF8cPGWTlA%2FVYgv0RRQLYI%2FAAAAAAAAGFA%2Fe90XH4sV-GU%2Fs640%2Fcasual%252Bsummer%252Bmaternity%252Boutfit.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D2948327267071521502%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-kUF8cPGWTlA%2FVYgv0RRQLYI%2FAAAAAAAAGFA%2Fe90XH4sV-GU%2Fs640%2Fcasual%252Bsummer%252Bmaternity%252Boutfit.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a><a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/create/extension/?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.blogger.com%2Fblogger.g%3FblogID%3D2948327267071521502%23editor%2Fsrc%3Dsidebar&media=https%3A%2F%2F3.bp.blogspot.com%2F-kUF8cPGWTlA%2FVYgv0RRQLYI%2FAAAAAAAAGFA%2Fe90XH4sV-GU%2Fs640%2Fcasual%252Bsummer%252Bmaternity%252Boutfit.jpg&xm=h&xv=sa1.35&description=" style="background-color: transparent; background-image: url(data:image/png; border: none; cursor: pointer; display: none; height: 20px; left: 42px; opacity: 0.85; position: absolute; top: 18px; width: 40px; z-index: 8675309;"></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-41911341114712415022015-06-05T11:17:00.000-05:002015-06-05T11:17:11.107-05:00 Big NewsIf you don't follow me on <a href="https://instagram.com/malloryr2/" target="_blank">Instagram</a>, you may have missed the big news I posted at the end of April...<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg55OPSSfaI7TvnuvdhTHM7ouIJbbqeb_sJu0e4ZPUXl3SQrDySkYsaaLf5CSbkN8s6IH9rDKK2npjh0jzhelQHgt01tpz9bIl4VOodKzeLqDzSP4d46k3CbKkatOkjtZPOdVrxnS92Fiyv/s1600/baby+announcement.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg55OPSSfaI7TvnuvdhTHM7ouIJbbqeb_sJu0e4ZPUXl3SQrDySkYsaaLf5CSbkN8s6IH9rDKK2npjh0jzhelQHgt01tpz9bIl4VOodKzeLqDzSP4d46k3CbKkatOkjtZPOdVrxnS92Fiyv/s1600/baby+announcement.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
Baby number 2 is on the way! Jon and I are very excited to be expanding our family and even more so now that we know what baby number 2 is.<br />
<br />
But let me back up a little bit. If you've been a reader for awhile, you know that Jon was the one to make the <a href="http://www.thehouseofhydrangeas.com/2013/07/planes-or-pearls-gender-reveal-party.html" target="_blank">big reveal</a> for baby number 1, Auden. This time around, I wanted to be the one to share the news with him...especially since I could find out right before his birthday (at the beginning of May)--the perfect present, right?!<br />
<br />
So me, my mom, sis, mother-in-law, Auden and my nephew loaded up in the car to go on a "shopping trip" one Saturday (Jon was none the wiser) to find out the gender of the baby. Here we all are before heading into the ultrasound.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV2N9gCyh2ji8-HyAIi-9jXssHQJRA9ZAjDaJ9_6BbHbY_pEGD98DgY5_vM8luwWi7XHqf-kboQ-Qoa5aaWsBc0mIy2JRnrIKgRdcMF1SxoZyW4byWGoh5gbGsKLKp5-3KOEJ6U5Rz1LOu/s1600/IMG_8348.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhV2N9gCyh2ji8-HyAIi-9jXssHQJRA9ZAjDaJ9_6BbHbY_pEGD98DgY5_vM8luwWi7XHqf-kboQ-Qoa5aaWsBc0mIy2JRnrIKgRdcMF1SxoZyW4byWGoh5gbGsKLKp5-3KOEJ6U5Rz1LOu/s640/IMG_8348.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
Me and my sweet girl cheesing after we found out the results.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijiTV1Okw52IGXkq10caA5xgcUJBVek1TEa3qNexRetGFa1RNBLzbb_N077_KBmtvJRO7PUmmefhSoiwxhFoVaQQxL4AAfaCLo_ptenXDzdb651jh4vYhbMXw_JuSgTfYZ2BDgG8Srfdl9/s1600/IMG_2544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijiTV1Okw52IGXkq10caA5xgcUJBVek1TEa3qNexRetGFa1RNBLzbb_N077_KBmtvJRO7PUmmefhSoiwxhFoVaQQxL4AAfaCLo_ptenXDzdb651jh4vYhbMXw_JuSgTfYZ2BDgG8Srfdl9/s400/IMG_2544.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<br />
To finish out the surprise, I wanted to present the sex of the baby to Jon the same time he got his gift, a Big Green Egg grill. So after the ultrasound, we headed to pick up the big boy--and I do mean big. I didn't plan the logistics of a packed car, a large ceramic egg and a long ride home very well, but we worked it out in the end. My poor sister (thank goodness she's short) had to sit in my mom's lap wedged in between two car seats for the 40 min ride. It was a cramped, illegal but extremely hilarious journey home. Luckily, I snapped a quick picture on my phone to capture the moment before we rolled out. We obviously couldn't stop laughing.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihzaIM4x8FBqn4smG5FE4UtbZGWYnAydW2KoZErrhpSIwxN6blQk1u8ILs6vwOut0qtTafI0QgEBlsyC01xvEguE3y3kI2W9GEx4AccIhRoGuFa7-eD1JIZbmRI7sgAGGvfCXqza7R-aPl/s1600/IMG_2547.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihzaIM4x8FBqn4smG5FE4UtbZGWYnAydW2KoZErrhpSIwxN6blQk1u8ILs6vwOut0qtTafI0QgEBlsyC01xvEguE3y3kI2W9GEx4AccIhRoGuFa7-eD1JIZbmRI7sgAGGvfCXqza7R-aPl/s400/IMG_2547.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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<br />
Originally I wanted to have the egg all set up and have Jon come outside and find the reveal inside the grill (doesn't everyone always lift open the lid to a new grill?). But I didn't account for its super heavy weight, so plan B was to have balloons tied to it for him to see when he opened the SUV to help us "unload the furniture" we bought on our "shopping trip."<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaT_nYSKmkup24-4xE7D2VlZ3GEKp0eWpOviCA0vEJXpbT-YqFnP5ndBRmjmrh9pKDHbP7hXKiFt1fk-pBwyn27ET4e5n07t7QMQvTmUncr6JtFVq_DFjumlRKA90kdIsd4zOs-E-35PZH/s1600/IMG_8355.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaT_nYSKmkup24-4xE7D2VlZ3GEKp0eWpOviCA0vEJXpbT-YqFnP5ndBRmjmrh9pKDHbP7hXKiFt1fk-pBwyn27ET4e5n07t7QMQvTmUncr6JtFVq_DFjumlRKA90kdIsd4zOs-E-35PZH/s640/IMG_8355.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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The hilarious thing was that Jon was so fixed on the grill (and maybe he thought the balloon was just a birthday balloon?) that he didn't even notice what the balloon said. We asked him "Do you see it?!" to which he replied "Yes, I see it. It says Big Green Egg" and pointed to the charcoal bag. We all laughed and then exclaimed "No, the balloon!!"<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_GpQfM1aNxcW73fKa2GlGaBM-fonNTd42yBWhwDWXQ13V8aLagnUsIk-SW7yghWF5rG3B3GBgB2SDQQstNa0E7odHZt1xE7eXreMdT-_Xz1kZqP8e3MfUgLofBqdiE9DPeNOfPgQ-xU1u/s1600/IMG_8357.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_GpQfM1aNxcW73fKa2GlGaBM-fonNTd42yBWhwDWXQ13V8aLagnUsIk-SW7yghWF5rG3B3GBgB2SDQQstNa0E7odHZt1xE7eXreMdT-_Xz1kZqP8e3MfUgLofBqdiE9DPeNOfPgQ-xU1u/s640/IMG_8357.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Right after he figured it out...a moment of disbelief. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVZ7oFmLIqzzStmaUUFWjFEciaFmC6t3oGOfeN4pynsly274pS6MvQIIufz5qfCbCW-OO9Ysr71aA1IGxMRU1JD-4QZ_ChdcyCW3M1f_rycbxqku6hMkRUl1iWb5P-gFc_k294kj0_-z7l/s1600/IMG_8360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVZ7oFmLIqzzStmaUUFWjFEciaFmC6t3oGOfeN4pynsly274pS6MvQIIufz5qfCbCW-OO9Ysr71aA1IGxMRU1JD-4QZ_ChdcyCW3M1f_rycbxqku6hMkRUl1iWb5P-gFc_k294kj0_-z7l/s640/IMG_8360.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
He said "Are you serious??" and soon realized the biggest surprise of all--another sweet baby girl!<br />
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Here we are with Jon's new toy and our girls :)<br />
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We made the big reveal to everyone else about a week later with these photos of Auden on the beach :)<br />
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I'm so excited for Auden to have a sister like I did and can't wait to get Baby Reutter #2's nursery all set up! To see the preliminary idea on that, head over to <a href="http://3adesignstudio.com/blog/2015/5/15/the-beginnings-of-a-nursery?rq=nursery" target="_blank">3A Design Studio</a> where I posted all of the details.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-28348591756835086842015-06-01T14:35:00.004-05:002017-04-04T14:09:51.163-05:00Auden's First Birthday-Pumpkins and PearlsIt's only been 6 months now, but better late than never, right?<br />
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Auden turned one on November 11th and we celebrated at our home with close family and friends. The theme of the party was pumpkins and pearls. Pun'kin is one of the nicknames I called her when she was little and pearls bring a girly flair and tied into our <a href="http://www.thehouseofhydrangeas.com/2013/07/planes-or-pearls-gender-reveal-party.html" target="_blank">reveal party</a> when we found out we were having a girl so it seemed perfect.<br />
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I had so much fun creating her invitation and all of the party printables. And for a little extra adornment, the invites were tied with jute twine and placed in scalloped envelope. Invites available for purchase <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/508650262/watercolor-fall-1st-birthday-invitation?ref=shop_home_active_22" target="_blank">here</a>. <br />
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Here's the sweet birthday girl in her homemade hat. I love how the bow on top turned out :) Her birthday stats poster is now available <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/235758848/first-birthday-stats-poster-with?ref=shop_home_active_3" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijdBvj0-McydI8QX3WPxOlHMFXLKHwfU4wJfKv-IyIJZez6CoJXjFP7dBZjmyAgZTNc75CeysacjG9_LnmwLwPrjLKOJPyidN0VTOVENnwyYHRmXRpr0mLxGl2jISaIZZn84IIy8wa3YEz/s1600/Auden+Birthday3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijdBvj0-McydI8QX3WPxOlHMFXLKHwfU4wJfKv-IyIJZez6CoJXjFP7dBZjmyAgZTNc75CeysacjG9_LnmwLwPrjLKOJPyidN0VTOVENnwyYHRmXRpr0mLxGl2jISaIZZn84IIy8wa3YEz/s640/Auden+Birthday3.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The smash cake table with our go-to milk jars (Starbuck frappuccino glasses) with paper straws. The tree slab plate they are sitting on was also used at our wedding. The smash cake was a $10 cake from Public and Auden LOVED it! So did my nephew (you can see his finger print from his pre-party taste testing ;) I made the pendants with scrap paper, bakers twine and wooden skewers. I ordered the flower and pumpkin toppers (which I also added to the big cake) from an Etsy store called JennyBakesALot. I loved the way they turned out and really loved saving money on a "designed" cake. <br />
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The oversized pearl balloon is from <a href="http://www.balloonsfast.com/">Balloonsfast.com</a> and the gold one from Amazon. I made the tassels with lace ribbon and fabric from some silk shirts I got at the thrift store. The high chair banner was also homemade with felt and strung pearls from an old costume bracelet. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiif18lfZOkeNifHPJwa1pgNHhqd7lep7rtw9fSWGJLt8qlQTQlYG4NISkNA2iW1P0yiPWzMWqeycRhRlp2vlkSpzSKWV0dpX-U53zrirGPBqcLSxJhKNuLtraM5carD2cPojHLUzPyPLld/s1600/Auden+Birthday2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="" border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiif18lfZOkeNifHPJwa1pgNHhqd7lep7rtw9fSWGJLt8qlQTQlYG4NISkNA2iW1P0yiPWzMWqeycRhRlp2vlkSpzSKWV0dpX-U53zrirGPBqcLSxJhKNuLtraM5carD2cPojHLUzPyPLld/s640/Auden+Birthday2.jpg" title="pumpkin smash cake with pendants, felt highchair banner" width="640" /></a></div>
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We kept the menu simple with typical party foods and of course a pumpkin shaped cheese balls covered in Cheez-its and topped with a pretzel stick handle. I gathered all the heirloom pumpkins from various nurseries and farmer's markets around town. Aside from the big cake, they were the biggest party expense. </div>
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The runner was burlap with copper dots from JoAnn Fabrics.<br />
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The cake was from a bakery in my hometown. My sweet mom drove it down and paid for it (it was the largest investment for the party). The top layer was vanilla cake with buttercream and the bottom was chocolate. I ordered it with the gray polka dots and added the fondant flowers and pumpkins.<br />
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The gold and blush balloons are also from <a href="http://www.balloonsfast.com/">Balloonsfast.com</a>, and I got them filled at Publix (much cheaper than Party City for those wondering). The hanging bunting was created with ribbon and the same felt used on the highchair banner and sewn together by my mom. </div>
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The drink table was the backdrop for The Year of Auden--a photo display of instagram shots from her first year hung with gold washi tape. The mason jar glasses had miniature tags tied on with baker's twine so guests wouldn't get their drinks mixed up. <br />
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In lieu of the typical month-by-month photo display, I opted for a quarterly display of professional ones we'd had done throughout the year--starting with her newbon shots. Each photo was labeled with burlap covered wooden leaf tags I got on clearance from JoAnn Fabrics.</div>
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Sticking with the fall theme, I decided on s'more party favors and created the sign and labels myself. <br />
The sign read "Thank you for the Love! I'm so glad you came to celebrate with me. Please take a favor to enjoy later. -Auden" Favor tags sold <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/522455743/crochetlace-smore-favor-tag?ref=listing-shop-header-1" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2_8Ov0vBYDRgLTz8jyORafYY8Kf3HsslPuuFiTdBoVzFuvX_mApayfti6t33GJ6InXXMdUq_UVqP56NqniTD7-FQBtnTpq5hwBhuKSEWjEMEB169GIWUwe1UhKbttyOx5NzuVxBWiWjmW/s1600/Auden+Birthday.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2_8Ov0vBYDRgLTz8jyORafYY8Kf3HsslPuuFiTdBoVzFuvX_mApayfti6t33GJ6InXXMdUq_UVqP56NqniTD7-FQBtnTpq5hwBhuKSEWjEMEB169GIWUwe1UhKbttyOx5NzuVxBWiWjmW/s640/Auden+Birthday.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The A was made from a cardboard letter also from JoAnn's and covered in moss sheets and felt flowers with pearl centers. I first cut out the center to place floral foam inside so that I could use push pins to hold the moss and flowers on. The photos are by <a href="http://jordanburchphotography.com/" target="_blank">Jordan Burch Photography</a> and some of my very favorite from the first days (and minutes) of her life.<br />
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As far as Auden's first take of sweets went...here's the photo rundown. <br />
1. She got scared when everyone first gathered around and started singing and staring at her and even let out a little bit of a cry. <br />
2. Then she saw the cake come in and was completely fascinated by the pendants (which were quickly removed).<br />
3. But as soon as she got a taste of that icing, she was in it...as you can see, she didn't even bother using her hands at the end. Face first it was! <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxiSFtOXVHYlmsfqfFgZQz2mV2dMAZX3wD8di4kQvvhfw6a7sxa4mjdENE5hOhV0Abv4foQcw2EGT5NTymPJvs_90YBG4JLNQ4_dMLXfw8cVOL4rQ20b_sDe093LxLTieMQ4dMIpsk_Gf5/s1600/Auden+Birthday10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhxiSFtOXVHYlmsfqfFgZQz2mV2dMAZX3wD8di4kQvvhfw6a7sxa4mjdENE5hOhV0Abv4foQcw2EGT5NTymPJvs_90YBG4JLNQ4_dMLXfw8cVOL4rQ20b_sDe093LxLTieMQ4dMIpsk_Gf5/s640/Auden+Birthday10.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
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The photo cracks me up. Here's mommy and daddy documenting away (tongue out and all). We were so lucky to have friends and family to hand our "big camera" off to who got some shots of our girl and us in action. <br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqedFo0IOvXjTbXsH0t9ioTbMUGYQkXcBrn0RxrOZ0kFCD6xPQm1JaW2JddMv3WAlXOFWb3guuT7HNKJuYnoPxfgrZIRPoNe-VXTnxiCvh-AY8PxjH-KW7BaqsMU4I-oeN4F7d92LlUBwK/s1600/IMG_7635.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqedFo0IOvXjTbXsH0t9ioTbMUGYQkXcBrn0RxrOZ0kFCD6xPQm1JaW2JddMv3WAlXOFWb3guuT7HNKJuYnoPxfgrZIRPoNe-VXTnxiCvh-AY8PxjH-KW7BaqsMU4I-oeN4F7d92LlUBwK/s640/IMG_7635.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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We had such a great time celebrating our little Bug and are beyond thankful to have now had a year and a half with her. <br />
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I started making a photo book of her first year but life and work got in the way, and I fell behind and never finished it before the party. So I made a <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g1vHOvOVRc0" target="_blank">video</a> in iMovie instead and surprised everyone at the party with it (including Jon). It moves me to tears every time I watch it and made some of the guests tear up as well. What a year it was!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQAwP-UL4f23kow2zc2AR51VO7QRuQdZmU0uYXPHw3jiuX_7xaHh923iw60t7XTxJ_fZNK7qlfDlUXIcGmI71ViSd6IiWQou10RluLVHBIw9Hqdn0X8G9tML3eOesDQ_4d4BnZJXhW-kX-/s1600/IMG_7656.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQAwP-UL4f23kow2zc2AR51VO7QRuQdZmU0uYXPHw3jiuX_7xaHh923iw60t7XTxJ_fZNK7qlfDlUXIcGmI71ViSd6IiWQou10RluLVHBIw9Hqdn0X8G9tML3eOesDQ_4d4BnZJXhW-kX-/s640/IMG_7656.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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Happy birthday, Auden Emory Reutter! We love you bunches and bunches!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj03x7bqT_-fQX3pzcdzag61kAbUwFpLVJ6WYRuRNC5uhoIpWIgm-7SRZ9cBf-1NUK8I4Q8Vx5fbrWvioqJbGIcNppigHaOU69sBOWUdUeWIKO30UIGo-ZEJ7lsk2H7I9jdF7MZUGNfeQP4/s1600/Auden+Birthday8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj03x7bqT_-fQX3pzcdzag61kAbUwFpLVJ6WYRuRNC5uhoIpWIgm-7SRZ9cBf-1NUK8I4Q8Vx5fbrWvioqJbGIcNppigHaOU69sBOWUdUeWIKO30UIGo-ZEJ7lsk2H7I9jdF7MZUGNfeQP4/s640/Auden+Birthday8.jpg" width="456" /></a></div>
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Stay tuned for some more exciting news I'll be posting this week! <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-28512576365326528302014-11-19T13:34:00.001-06:002014-11-23T15:15:32.169-06:00Target Finds<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I love shopping at Target. It's always clean, usually not busy (my location anyway) and they always have great deals on things! I especially love their accessories and recently purchased a few I thought I'd share.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ndKxlttN4fTAbKlGcuvT-39oMyLw3Uy07dN16jcGz2PiYAC6cJQup35qi68iH_67_zKzg_W-j0WEjHXDOuhBbW7wf9_Enf5Lajb03jt66_bxwx4tF8c7TwcMysyBm0wVZrWzxpBFzWvY/s1600/floppy+hat+target.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0ndKxlttN4fTAbKlGcuvT-39oMyLw3Uy07dN16jcGz2PiYAC6cJQup35qi68iH_67_zKzg_W-j0WEjHXDOuhBbW7wf9_Enf5Lajb03jt66_bxwx4tF8c7TwcMysyBm0wVZrWzxpBFzWvY/s1600/floppy+hat+target.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.target.com/p/mossimo-floppy-hat-with-sash-brown/-/A-15606356#prodSlot=medium_1_2&term=floppy+hat">Floppy Hat-$16.99</a></td></tr>
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I love a good hat and this one was just what I've been wanting to find!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuKyWK-7OuSt53CXsXyRvT7gBfx-K741PtS9C9icqt6uryMJB8KTDBIx-OuAgWd3NtHT1Xjz9TZV1KIGyt7fXFl_ZBiGAjOL6q3bNyjFp8E8zQ-q8h2H6ZK9ehiucq6r-zibp5GYvcdLiE/s1600/Merona+Plaid+Scarf.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuKyWK-7OuSt53CXsXyRvT7gBfx-K741PtS9C9icqt6uryMJB8KTDBIx-OuAgWd3NtHT1Xjz9TZV1KIGyt7fXFl_ZBiGAjOL6q3bNyjFp8E8zQ-q8h2H6ZK9ehiucq6r-zibp5GYvcdLiE/s1600/Merona+Plaid+Scarf.png" height="320" width="288" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.target.com/p/oversized-plaid-scarf-multicolored/-/A-15542694#prodSlot=medium_1_9&term=merona+plaid+scarf">Oversized Plaid Scarf-$16.99</a></td></tr>
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Blanket scarves are very in for this fall/winter and this one has beautiful colors at a great price. I wore it for date night last week with a black blouse and cognac boots, and it was perfect.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3KaX_U5U4pLjUhwxSdS2briUw77GJqlE6sbWv9wsXyc-5Q09QK7NkuhgezblNBk2p31geDwKATY61F9siaUv_algPxjNnuVTiXu41tf3OC3FnSFDN4TAA_rvWfXS3pRZWUQj1a9NDvlaZ/s1600/tassel+shaw+gray+target.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3KaX_U5U4pLjUhwxSdS2briUw77GJqlE6sbWv9wsXyc-5Q09QK7NkuhgezblNBk2p31geDwKATY61F9siaUv_algPxjNnuVTiXu41tf3OC3FnSFDN4TAA_rvWfXS3pRZWUQj1a9NDvlaZ/s1600/tassel+shaw+gray+target.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.target.com/p/mossimo-supply-co-tassled-shawl-gray/-/A-15425613?lnk=Rec|pdp|viewed_viewed|pdpv1">Tassled Shaw-$24.99</a></td></tr>
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I actually got a different color that was on clearance in my store, but I love this one too. Check your stores to see if they have a better deal.</div>
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P.S. Target is offering free shipping site wide right now! Happy shopping!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-76605855917081712992014-09-12T22:18:00.002-05:002014-09-12T22:18:47.503-05:00TenThat's how many months my sweet girl turned yesterday. Ten. I feel like the first 3-4 months cruised slowly on by and then all of the sudden time just sped up. And now here we are--prepping for her the celebration of her first year of life in two short months. Wow.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivoQy45zEMhvaLJBgcK8uoewJBcw3CkeJ4M9qk4SSQxU5Rvhn0jos4hqpOiYOyO1DX-HCA6S7yqd57u_LOO9xcOAAFXdRJllFMULAoW0GoiTwyCryeXnT3L5Zh6Iff3kImGGRgth4sHiaI/s1600/DSC_0355.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivoQy45zEMhvaLJBgcK8uoewJBcw3CkeJ4M9qk4SSQxU5Rvhn0jos4hqpOiYOyO1DX-HCA6S7yqd57u_LOO9xcOAAFXdRJllFMULAoW0GoiTwyCryeXnT3L5Zh6Iff3kImGGRgth4sHiaI/s1600/DSC_0355.jpg" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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I ran across this photo earlier today when I was organizing my files, and it almost took my breath away. She was three months old and still so tiny. We were just at the start of our journey.</div>
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Newborn- 3 months- 6 months- 9months</div>
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My how she has grown and become her own little person...mild mannered (most of the time), so happy, curious, joyful and full of giggles and grins. What a treat it has been to be her momma! I'm thankful for every day--even the hard ones, because I know life ends far too quickly sometimes. I want to love her well and soak it all in. But the truth is most days are a blur and then it's bedtime. I pray that in that "blur" she thinks I'm doing my part well. That "ma ma" is doing alright. </div>
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Happy 10 months, Bug! Thank you for lighting up our lives in ways we never could have imagined. </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-40997727041645246492014-07-27T23:00:00.002-05:002014-07-27T23:45:56.168-05:00To my AudenDear Baby Girl,<br />
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You're eight and a half months old now and have been sleeping through the night for quite some time. But some times, ever so often, you'll let out a cry in the middle of the night. Usually, it only lasts a bit before you soothe yourself and roll over and go back to sleep. But some times you won't stop until someone comes to see you. I secretly love those times. Those times remind me that you still need me. Those times bring me back to the first weeks of your life when you still needed to eat often...when were you still my tiny girl. In those moments, in the quiet of your dark room, I hold you close and whisper to you how much I love you, how lucky I am to call you mine. In those moments I thank God for this gift; this immeasurable gift. In those moments, I just want time to stand still.<br />
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I'm staring at the monitor now and watching you sleep peacefully, wondering of what your dreams are made. I have big dreams for you myself and pray continuously that I will get to walk alongside you to experience them. You bring me so much joy, my sweet Auden. In your waking moments and in your restful sleep. When you're laughing uncontrollably. When you make your grandpa face. When I look and see you in my rearview mirror. When you hit a new milestone. When you stop what you're doing to look up at me and grin. <br />
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I find it hard to believe that my love for you could possibly grow any more. But as I wipe away the tears rolling down my face, I know that my heart will continue to fill up... so much so that it may burst. And it's all because of you. <br />
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So sleep sweetly baby girl. And remember if you need me, I'm always here. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6IjhokOHys6SDGGTf6xcWPPNqiU8UOrSoZmZrc7sNHv6REecpRnlxWBYBuUw38v6R9JV0nYGznc7XhwKQxO4jSZxnqGN883hdmhgrdJArX3A8tq3j42DJYQ8kaGUpsxaFWQUYy7Fyh7m7/s1600/035.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6IjhokOHys6SDGGTf6xcWPPNqiU8UOrSoZmZrc7sNHv6REecpRnlxWBYBuUw38v6R9JV0nYGznc7XhwKQxO4jSZxnqGN883hdmhgrdJArX3A8tq3j42DJYQ8kaGUpsxaFWQUYy7Fyh7m7/s1600/035.jpg" height="425" width="640" /></a></div>
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{Photo by Jordan Burch Photography}<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-62963642741140750372014-04-07T22:20:00.001-05:002014-04-07T22:20:08.258-05:00Southern Gentleman Baby ShowerLast month I helped throw my best friend (we met in 9th grade speech class :)) Lauren's baby shower for her soon-to-arrive baby boy, Gunner. The shower had a "Southern gentleman" theme complete with bow ties, silhouettes and gingham print. Personal touches and family items were used throughout, including baby Gunner's dad's bow ties :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_NT8plIrFYiK5cAOmZlSWnWk62RirxyDIpl_q3JmcOXOO16C1-b2sQ_s7wlDTdFbpf6nvTEpg1L_-BzoxYRedmGHBTqN0J99vLH0cfgtudR0m7HbCvsprmV9scdA8rRU4OjBPZrDchGGz/s1600/southern+gentleman+baby+shower3.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_NT8plIrFYiK5cAOmZlSWnWk62RirxyDIpl_q3JmcOXOO16C1-b2sQ_s7wlDTdFbpf6nvTEpg1L_-BzoxYRedmGHBTqN0J99vLH0cfgtudR0m7HbCvsprmV9scdA8rRU4OjBPZrDchGGz/s1600/southern+gentleman+baby+shower3.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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Gunner's daddy's "going home" outfit greeted guests at the sign in table, along with a framed "Southern gentleman in the making" print.</div>
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<br />A variety of centerpieces graced the tables with groupings of baby mementos, flowers and photos.<br />
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An antique baby basket helped house the gifts.</div>
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The drink menu consisted of milk, apple juice (one of Lauren's cravings), fruit-infused water and coffee.</div>
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The menu was made of a variety of brunch goodies including fruit, doughnuts, muffins, shrimp and grits, breakfast casserole and a waffle bar. </div>
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And of course no shower is complete without a little something sweet. These bow tie cookies fit the bill perfectly and the lemon drop cupcakes were a requested by Lauren and made by her mom.</div>
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Last but certainly not least...the waffle bar where toppings were served from terra cotta pots, naturally :)<br />
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The shower turned out great and most importantly, Lauren loved it all!<br />
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Congrats, Laredo! You're going to be an amazing mommy, and I can't wait to meet sweet baby Gunner!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-83402668934859194082014-03-21T09:54:00.002-05:002014-03-21T09:54:42.814-05:00Stella & Dot Favorites!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Spring is finally here! These pretty days and warm temps are quite refreshing. They make me want to shop for a new wardrobe of colorful shorts, cotton tops and of course jewelry! I'm on a "no clothes shopping" stint right now, though. If you saw my closet, you'd understand why. I've decided to remix my wardrobe and use what I have instead of buying new and only wearing previously purchased items a handful of times. </div>
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One way for me to easily remix and redress outfits is with accessories, specifically jewelry! Good jewelry buys last a long time, especially if they're well made and I don't mind justifying a purchase here or there :) Enter Stella & Dot. I've purchased a handful of their products before and still wear and love them all. Here are a few of my current faves for spring!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYYBjsiDQKeB4olBqUM2xdVykoQN4_tMk5IkmjaMhvy6eOhJ16mWVUJnNb-ho4qdyEIizP-3NvtZ0-dzpkl1QE6SRKA9LpOtPhLtC9LP9Ymel2i5UUCDaev3vTTaDAmDD1b_zEGeIlZOI9/s1600/Stell+and+Dot.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYYBjsiDQKeB4olBqUM2xdVykoQN4_tMk5IkmjaMhvy6eOhJ16mWVUJnNb-ho4qdyEIizP-3NvtZ0-dzpkl1QE6SRKA9LpOtPhLtC9LP9Ymel2i5UUCDaev3vTTaDAmDD1b_zEGeIlZOI9/s1600/Stell+and+Dot.jpg" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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1. I have this Starstruck Ring, and it's a great fun piece to throw on with any outfit...and currently on sale for $29.50!<br />
2. Because everyone needs a little turquoise in their spring/summer attire, the Rory is perfect.<br />
3. This is another staple of mine. The Rebel Pendant can be thrown on with a casual t-shirt or a dressy silk blouse. One of my go-to's when rushing out the door. <br />
4. I love this Eden bangle for stacking with other bracelets or just with my watch. The little bling is a nice added touch :)<br />
5. A Stella & Dot best seller, and I know why. These earrings get me compliments every time I wear them! They have multiple colors, but I love the green.<br />
6. These studs are perfect for an everyday staple. Simple enough for every outfit but big enough to say "Hey! Don't forget about me!" These are also offered in multiple colors, but the peach is just right for spring if you ask me.<br />
7. The Soho charms and gold necklace make a sweet and simple layering piece. I think I need one of these with my sweet girl's initial :)<br />
8. The Elodie. Oh man, the Elodie. This necklace is even 10x prettier in person and has every color of spring! So gorg.<br />
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If you want any of these pretties, shop for them <a href="http://www.stelladot.com/ts/s9rx5?guest=3342948">here</a>!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-22928917290238518872014-03-14T15:46:00.000-05:002014-03-14T15:46:04.649-05:00The Big News...and Auden's Nursery Reveal<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Auden's nursery is finally up for your viewing! "Where?" you might ask. Well that is the other big reveal. I not only had a newborn recently, but I also created another baby, <a href="http://www.3adesignstudio.com/">3A Design Studio</a>. Actually it's me and two other designers who have teamed up to create an interior design business available to everyone--not just those with thousands of dollars to spend. Our main focus is on <a href="http://3adesignstudio.com/e-design/">E-Design</a>, but we offer several other services as well. Me and my girls will also be blogging over there. Check it out and let me know what you think! Follow along on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/3ADesignStudio?ref=hl">Facebook page</a> or subscribe via E-mail to stay in the design loop of all of our exciting new projects and tips! And if you have a room we can help you design, please let us know!<br />
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I'll still be posting on here as well, but for more design content (now you have me and two other gals) check out <a href="http://3adesignstudio.com/">3A Design Studio</a>. We're so excited about our new baby!<br />
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And now back to my real baby. You can see the details and pictures of Auden's nursery <a href="http://3adesignstudio.com/blog/2014/2/4/audens-nursery">here</a>. I hope you enjoy. It was certainly a labor of love! :)<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-29038966100741826012014-02-05T13:11:00.003-06:002014-02-05T13:23:56.554-06:00Hello WorldI know it's been quite awhile, but I do have a good excuse. Say hello to our new daughter, Auden Emory Reutter. <br />
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She was born on Veteran's Day (how fitting), November 11th, at 5:37pm weighing in at 6 lbs 1 oz and 19.5 inches and has stolen our hearts ever since.<br />
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Her brother and sister, Remington and Riley, have adjusted quite well :)<br />
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Here's a sneak of Auden's nursery in the background.<br />
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She surprised us all by coming a little over two weeks early (my family is notorious for late babies). After all, we'd just gotten done taking our maternity photos a few weeks earlier.<br />
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All photos in this post are by the fabulous <a href="http://jordanburchphotography.com/">Jordan Burch Photography</a></div>
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My water broke at 4 in the morning (another thing I didn't expect), and she was here 13.5 hours later. It was love at first sight. <br />
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Needless to say, life hasn't been the same since. And along with expanding our family, Jon and I also had some career changes--him landing his dream job at American Airlines and me starting a new business venture (more on that later). Throw in Thanksgiving, Christmas and family visitors, and we had a pretty crazy and beautiful end to our 2013. <br />
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Thanks for coming along for the ride :) My next post will share the new business venture and give you all of the details on Auden's nursery!<br />
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***If you previously signed up to receive House of Hydrangeas posts by email, you will need to resubscribe in the right column since the website address has changed, now THEhouseofhydrangeas.com. Thank you to all who have been with me on this journey since the beginning (when Jon and I were just married) and those that have just now joined in following! You all mean so much.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-28311351736562906522013-10-30T16:26:00.000-05:002013-10-30T16:26:16.361-05:00Nesting?Last night I fell asleep pondering where we were going to put up our Christmas tree. And yes, I realize it's not even Halloween yet. Now this thought could have entered my mind for one of two reasons. One, it could possibly be that my "nesting" for baby has set in (which, by the way, I feel is much stronger for those with a passion for design and fantasize about how to rearrange things all of the time anyway). Or two, it may be due to the fact that Jon and I will be celebrating Christmas at our own home for the first time since we've been married!<br />
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Yes, this will be our fourth Christmas as a married couple, and we've never celebrated at our own house. Kind of sad isn't it?<br />
<br />
<b>Here's why it's never happened:</b><br />
<b>2010:</b> We were newlyweds who lived in middle of nowhere Oklahoma and thus traveled to family in Texas and Alabama for the holiday.<br />
<b>2011:</b> We were in transition to moving to Florida and were residing in my mom's house until mid January. Christmas in Birmingham. <br />
<b>2012:</b> Jon was deployed overseas so me and our fur babies went home for Christmas. <br />
<br />
<b>2013:</b> We'll be celebrating our first Christmas as a family of three in our OWN home here in Florida! <br />
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I'm so excited. For having our own little family this time around (less than 4 weeks until my due date!). For the fires. For the presents. For the tree. For the music. For my favorite holiday. <br />
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I even purchased the new Dave Barnes Christmas album, appropriately titled A December to Remember, to get myself in the spirit a little ahead of time. It's so great! I highly suggest you <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/album/a-december-to-remember/id728724020">check it out</a>.<br />
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If you're not quite ready to delve into the holiday songs just yet, here's another new favorite tune of mine perfect for fall, Amos Lee's "A Chill in the Air"--there's even a free download <a href="http://thekey.xpn.org/2013/09/26/download-a-new-song-by-amos-lee-chill-in-the-air-xpn-welcomes-to-the-tower-theatre-on-1127/">here</a>.<br />
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My sister and mom are coming into town this weekend to help me (along with Jon) hammer out all of the finishing touches to the nursery and baby "to do" list. I can't wait!<br />
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Speaking of the nursery, here's Remington (not posed!) with his paw on his portrait for the gallery wall done by the talented Erisha at <a href="http://athingcreated.com/">A Thing Created</a>. I guess he's a fan of her work too :)<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-16945482764317591372013-10-03T11:55:00.000-05:002013-10-03T11:55:41.932-05:00A HeartLately, baby prep has been on the forefront of my mind. Getting the nursery ready, packing the hospital bag, washing all of her clothes, setting up a pediatrician and the list goes on. Sometimes I have to step away from it all (literally and mentally) so as not to get overwhelmed. I put this pressure on myself to get it all done and done right. I tell myself that all of these things are so necessary for her to be a good place upon her entrance to the world. <br />
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Sure cute, clean outfits and a nice room are nice things for your child to have, but how lost I can get in the worldly things. More than anything else, I know that the best thing I can give my daughter is a great example of a good heart. A heart that empathizes and serves. A heart that loves the Lord and longs for his relationship. A heart that is thankful and joyful even on the worst days. <br />
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It's a frightening thing to ask myself "Will she learn this from you? Will you be able to be that example?" That carries a far greater weight than supplying her with the "things" of this world. The heaviness of it is both daunting and encouraging. And I'm left knowing that the only way to achieve this grace and attain this strength is by getting on my knees and asking it of Him.<br />
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Daily may I pray "Lord help me because I can't on my own."<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-34131373497671799982013-09-25T16:24:00.001-05:002013-09-25T16:27:20.449-05:00My Baby Shower<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Some of our sweet friends and family helped host a baby shower brunch for me and our little girl last weekend in Birmingham. It was absolutely beautiful and a day I will always cherish. Sweet, feminine and full of breakfast food--it couldn't have been more up my alley. :)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJVcdNN9uPZmx5QyHbhleWAReGHbfgFRdNtGF2pMkXtZOAXhx8RJydakVWrWtX1CL_-jVusKQGfZOF2W36PIDNJqKfVaFvXdPR_B2kDILIiKZ73JqymetIB9lM9nREQIUEJhcuSYTBBMya/s1600/silver+pitcher+flower+arrangement.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJVcdNN9uPZmx5QyHbhleWAReGHbfgFRdNtGF2pMkXtZOAXhx8RJydakVWrWtX1CL_-jVusKQGfZOF2W36PIDNJqKfVaFvXdPR_B2kDILIiKZ73JqymetIB9lM9nREQIUEJhcuSYTBBMya/s640/silver+pitcher+flower+arrangement.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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The booties on the sign-in table were my mom's when she was an infant and the sweater and cap were also made for me and my sister when we babies.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYMKLtkIrloWaWn95u0E9VT7HF9FfFG9xb6-GMTI4P95ov_g-gCGp02zzM56k9k9b9EPV6rXDSeWFWX6aF_VdMGzkVFIb-FnfhXWXDXGv6pAk23iTYNQ_5Emu8ZdwlHbRwqxHvifZHAkfd/s1600/Baby+Shower+styling.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYMKLtkIrloWaWn95u0E9VT7HF9FfFG9xb6-GMTI4P95ov_g-gCGp02zzM56k9k9b9EPV6rXDSeWFWX6aF_VdMGzkVFIb-FnfhXWXDXGv6pAk23iTYNQ_5Emu8ZdwlHbRwqxHvifZHAkfd/s640/Baby+Shower+styling.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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A 'wisdom tree' was also placed on the entry table for guests to leave their words of advice.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGEEJDRX1aHUtMt4SmFNzYB0YEMpOzDkqKpLATphDDUydpqpB_VXOkVejyQoORLqSyIVR1vEeTkW9Yh2p_ISwgGOhDVTFz50GN9TDx7rL9gEpuGhnX2RjeR0WdJ6jwzJKMCJGVQADU5qOy/s1600/words+of+wisdom+baby+shower.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGEEJDRX1aHUtMt4SmFNzYB0YEMpOzDkqKpLATphDDUydpqpB_VXOkVejyQoORLqSyIVR1vEeTkW9Yh2p_ISwgGOhDVTFz50GN9TDx7rL9gEpuGhnX2RjeR0WdJ6jwzJKMCJGVQADU5qOy/s640/words+of+wisdom+baby+shower.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnxiJLtdrETPbTre4TVnWjD7KwQdXXEOFEsAMGhvY3w6aeVw0mD4DOutqTHLpl9548kyJPt_ZNzVwfROdGOPHey7tNcsYq4md7mLDKz9md_dHyuhvaEXdnWGckYmbU_oserSY7YnDzU9P_/s1600/baby+shower+wisdom+tree.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="494" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnxiJLtdrETPbTre4TVnWjD7KwQdXXEOFEsAMGhvY3w6aeVw0mD4DOutqTHLpl9548kyJPt_ZNzVwfROdGOPHey7tNcsYq4md7mLDKz9md_dHyuhvaEXdnWGckYmbU_oserSY7YnDzU9P_/s640/baby+shower+wisdom+tree.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Black and white stripes and touches of pink and green were used throughout. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUiYJJOy0BHbaN5ERzZZTSJPSrbLZeGAdfkdcr3HHiSIV3CudytULR-AEfteyw3_ulmU8Cl6HR3G8uTdbgDsZlbO6W_0xSoV0JQkdw8DQEawr6bDCSAt-J0yQkrHHjhtlfO7o3u1HY31ZY/s1600/black+white+green+baby+shower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUiYJJOy0BHbaN5ERzZZTSJPSrbLZeGAdfkdcr3HHiSIV3CudytULR-AEfteyw3_ulmU8Cl6HR3G8uTdbgDsZlbO6W_0xSoV0JQkdw8DQEawr6bDCSAt-J0yQkrHHjhtlfO7o3u1HY31ZY/s640/black+white+green+baby+shower.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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My friend and hostess, Bekah, created this beauty after some Pinterest inspiration. If you can believe it, it tasted even better than it looked!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPstSk1vxWKLQQpCvOcGf7tKKYYz8XvKJSbfQA9MN9WThbLRt_nrxOSJb5qmT9K5FNDtnXTe619f_Xfj1UzkvQfSuBmUsxwLrFuKA6xm7YWlO79Va-oHZ7-QQQE9stf6C7fFGLQIBzVJ6C/s1600/exposed+layer+cake.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPstSk1vxWKLQQpCvOcGf7tKKYYz8XvKJSbfQA9MN9WThbLRt_nrxOSJb5qmT9K5FNDtnXTe619f_Xfj1UzkvQfSuBmUsxwLrFuKA6xm7YWlO79Va-oHZ7-QQQE9stf6C7fFGLQIBzVJ6C/s640/exposed+layer+cake.JPG" width="420" /></a></div>
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The menu was all about breakfast and included items such as pancakes, cinnamon rolls, fresh fruit, donut holes, breakfast casserole muffins and grits. Delish!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBRy4krwN0qFgfKo02dS92NH0vuLBU3jaj_ynZK-YpruKoAENJcTewEdQoa5ekbpr6a3y80bbTO9x_uTkxlrDTSETUXk20QNNNylVSQUTGJ-Iiv9t4qIfiiHvb9n_lhhaQrbCCW9A72U1/s1600/IMG_5974.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="425" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQBRy4krwN0qFgfKo02dS92NH0vuLBU3jaj_ynZK-YpruKoAENJcTewEdQoa5ekbpr6a3y80bbTO9x_uTkxlrDTSETUXk20QNNNylVSQUTGJ-Iiv9t4qIfiiHvb9n_lhhaQrbCCW9A72U1/s640/IMG_5974.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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How cute are these mini pancakes?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPXkRlmPrNxI1Twnn7B2X3PJzVrx3z0u3DzrGKGKvFhbqaZ8V0REDBcSPkEBLOnusAunbTvBlV9qWz-GU-KR5KDaZox1vMw2kijiEqSk7A8cWTzGh1Vik_aLD4ONeqCUGtozLmES801wyk/s1600/IMG_59792.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPXkRlmPrNxI1Twnn7B2X3PJzVrx3z0u3DzrGKGKvFhbqaZ8V0REDBcSPkEBLOnusAunbTvBlV9qWz-GU-KR5KDaZox1vMw2kijiEqSk7A8cWTzGh1Vik_aLD4ONeqCUGtozLmES801wyk/s640/IMG_59792.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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And this donut hole topiary? Pretty and tasty!</div>
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And it wouldn't be a Southern brunch baby shower with a grits bar, right?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYMdMrJXrnnjncCZlUGk1BZDC6R7fn0K-lCln_PjTFAppy4JW7KnHggTX_WH1hmGUHKFssW4obiWQ3KV8efe94NFW5r36LqmOEcS0A6P2bD0sLR6KdWCuBzBwDP4pte1hPcsInSMiqxGs8/s1600/Brunch+Shower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="452" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYMdMrJXrnnjncCZlUGk1BZDC6R7fn0K-lCln_PjTFAppy4JW7KnHggTX_WH1hmGUHKFssW4obiWQ3KV8efe94NFW5r36LqmOEcS0A6P2bD0sLR6KdWCuBzBwDP4pte1hPcsInSMiqxGs8/s640/Brunch+Shower.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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A long, communal table anchored the room and created a cozy space for everyone to gather, chat and eat. Arrangements of pink and green florals were used throughout--including hydrangeas. But that was given, right?</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3XgDLypMPgHFBbQQ-D5rC_c6YSDFDnCftyIjKO08gVITrJTGJutpXN7CbbpDOOwd0dUE7zIUXqnCJapfV4YJOD8cbPEguFhgu-poooKTSlc-d5j6H1MFl-ojp_SfTdiKHpr3uIFdVGFbY/s1600/silver+candelabra+baby+shower.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="456" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3XgDLypMPgHFBbQQ-D5rC_c6YSDFDnCftyIjKO08gVITrJTGJutpXN7CbbpDOOwd0dUE7zIUXqnCJapfV4YJOD8cbPEguFhgu-poooKTSlc-d5j6H1MFl-ojp_SfTdiKHpr3uIFdVGFbY/s640/silver+candelabra+baby+shower.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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In the beverage department, there was a mimosa bar, coffee punch and my personal favorite, glasses of milk with vintage-inspired paper straws :)</div>
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My mom sewed all of the ruffle skirts for the mason jars--such a cute, girly touch!<br />
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The favors were one of my favorite details of the shower. Calendar cookies with the due date of our little girl were placed at the door for guests to pick up as they left. I just love how they turned out!</div>
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The shower wouldn't be complete without a baby bump shot. Here we are at almost 31 weeks and counting! </div>
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Here are just a handful of the people who attended and/or helped host the shower, many spanning back over ten plus years of friendship and one I've known since first grade!</div>
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Here's my mom with her baby girl (me) and me with mine :)</div>
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Our girl really racked up on sweet goodies! We got such a great assortment of necessities and things too cute for words. There were so many thoughtful gifts. </div>
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Posing with just part of the goods.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuXkTaL9K-xOdjdB2-KnEMHxxVBXcLYx0XBLrqxeLUMIlAnhUcQSHnM7BaLJwK9Oh7swfwZvoO96V8-aHmgUmmECmBefKlotYZ1SwR3KgClPIQPdR4SgDAE8G5pIQhcZmstoqZw2uS8CRB/s1600/IMG_4615.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiuXkTaL9K-xOdjdB2-KnEMHxxVBXcLYx0XBLrqxeLUMIlAnhUcQSHnM7BaLJwK9Oh7swfwZvoO96V8-aHmgUmmECmBefKlotYZ1SwR3KgClPIQPdR4SgDAE8G5pIQhcZmstoqZw2uS8CRB/s640/IMG_4615.JPG" style="cursor: move;" width="640" /></a><br />
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I think my face basically sums up the day. I felt so blessed and in awe of all of the love for us and our baby girl. Thank you everyone who was a part of it! You'll never know how much it means!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-11218924018771595032013-08-28T13:11:00.001-05:002013-08-28T13:11:34.884-05:00Rock OnWell, we finally have a piece of furniture in the nursery. Hooray! Yesterday, my amazing <a href="http://www.laylagrayce.com/Products/Nursery-Works-Empire-Rocker__NW65.aspx?gclid=CJ%2De8pndoLkCFTRo7AodfXcAhw">Nurseryworks Empire Rocker</a> showed up (it wasn't supposed to ship until mid September). What a nice surprise! I was lucky enough to have my friend Jessica over here to help me put it together and move it into the nursery and I love love love it!<br />
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I knew I wanted something a little different when it came to a rocker/glider selection and the lines on this one totally fit the bill. Modern with a traditional bent--just my style.<br />
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I purchased the diamond poof (on sale!) at Target at the beginning of the summer and the herringbone throw is also a previous purchase that I've been waiting to showcase. Obviously, there's still a lot more to do (see the pink walls?), but just having this piece in the room now makes me feel like there's been some progress! </div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-74619248693436880762013-08-27T13:04:00.003-05:002013-08-27T13:04:52.576-05:00The One Who Hears ItLast night as I was lying in bed, I began thinking about all of my recent prayers requests. In the last week or so it seems there has been a prevalent amount of pain, suffering, uncertainty, worry and loss in the lives of family, friends and even strangers around the world. You can't tune into the news without hearing of some senseless killing. Disease and death are taking over lives. Thoughts of the unknown are too scary to fathom. My heart aches for each new story I hear, and each fear I harbor inside myself. Yesterday I even found myself in tears after reading another sad Facebook status. While I know the amped up pregnancy hormones aren't helping, I think I would mourn for the loss and unknown regardless. This world can be a sad and scary place. But it can also be beautiful.<br />
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Last Friday I had the privilege of meeting an older man in the doctor's office while waiting on my glucose test. He sat next to me and began making conversation. He made mention of how everyone is so bogged down in their technology that they can't even see the world around them anymore. Thank goodness my phone was in my purse at the time. What a treat I would have missed. <br />
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By the end of our talk, I had learned of his times in the Navy, the work his grandson did and how proud he was of his wife. He learned a little about me too and upon leaving he told me to tell Jon that "This old sailor says thank you for your service." It made my heart smile so big. Last week I also learned of another miracle being conceived. Another little life on the way to entering the world. What an amazing blessing.<br />
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Life is hard. It can get ugly and scary sometimes. Bad things happen. But so does good. When I get sad or weary, I have to remind myself that the scariness and sadness of this world are not greater than the love and power of my God. That is to what we must cling. <br />
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My friend Bekah shared this very fitting quote with which I'll leave you. <br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">"Our prayers may be awkward. Our attempts may be feeble. But since the power of prayer is in the One who hears it and not in the one who says it, our prayers do make a difference." -Max Lucado</span><br />
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<i>Sorry for getting so deep. Sometimes you just have to get things out :) More nursery updates coming tomorrow!</i><br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-91453468169169623732013-08-20T18:31:00.001-05:002013-08-20T18:31:12.724-05:00Tuesdays- Bump Watch DaySo this is how I've been spending my Tuesdays, the day my pregnancy weeks rollover, also known as the day of the week I'm due. Our dog Remington has been a great assistant and has made appearances in many of the photos. :)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihj0e3nBVuvZSdgqI0ZnGK7hQZ-dXcUNSxQHGFoO65i0vrfakg-wEeKvNTLwGUXJ1Za2SZUkRKYdBeVmKMtcNJNkYOJC-M1JDpLCNmeTtJwJQ8N6azMZPsbhjq9DK7rZy6TTwv2ntFMYX5/s1600/26+weeks-4.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihj0e3nBVuvZSdgqI0ZnGK7hQZ-dXcUNSxQHGFoO65i0vrfakg-wEeKvNTLwGUXJ1Za2SZUkRKYdBeVmKMtcNJNkYOJC-M1JDpLCNmeTtJwJQ8N6azMZPsbhjq9DK7rZy6TTwv2ntFMYX5/s400/26+weeks-4.JPG" width="266" /></a></div>
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We're 26 weeks along now, and I've been documenting "the bump" since week 19. Because Jon is overseas I've succumbed to selfies and a floor length mirror. Hey, a girl's gotta do what a girl's gotta do. It's been amazing to see how much she's grown week by week. I can't believe we only have 14 more to go now! <br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-64373660683174535982013-08-19T14:37:00.000-05:002013-08-19T16:59:34.518-05:00Mom's New KitchenMom's kitchen renovation starts today! What a long time coming this has been. It's going from 1970's down and brown to a clean, white wonder. I can't wait to show you guys the before and after shots!<br />
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In the meantime, here is the moodboard of the overall look of the space. Click on the image in enlarge.<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-37615741201606614662013-08-12T11:59:00.002-05:002013-08-12T11:59:28.836-05:00Nursery Finds...and Riley FindsI purchased a few more things for the nursery last week and a couple of the items were happy accidents courtesy of TJMaxx/HomeGoods--even better!<br />
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Last Friday I decided to go ahead and purchase the <a href="http://www.pier1.com/Colette-Jacquard-Panel/PS44231,default,pd.html">Pier 1 curtains</a> featured on the <a href="http://www.houseofhydrangeas.com/2013/08/nursery-blues.html">nursery board</a>. They are sold only online so I knew I'd have to get them sent to me in order to see if they'd really work with my other fabrics. Feeling accomplished that I'd checked another thing off of my nursery to do list, I decided to get out of the house for a little while and headed to my go to place, TJ Maxx. We have a rather large TJ Maxx/HomeGoods combination store here in Pensacola so I never know what I'll find when I step inside.<br />
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This time, one of those finds was curtains. Yes, curtains for the nursery. Curtains to potentially replace the ones I had just ordered maybe an hour before. The TJ ones, however, were a quarter of the cost so I had to snatch them up. I love the medallion print... and the fact that they aren't grommet top panels. It's a weird thing of mine, I can't stand grommet top curtains. I'll still see what the Pier 1 panels have to offer when they arrive, but right now these are the front-runners, especially for the price-$25 for TWO panels.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFvVbLskvQQXvXZMfvhCaCTX328-M8gTbicKZaRgqRcNuZ4DGDoJXS9_NmodRptcTsCYEu94a8oSLEaM_4M5pysZpcN57hqm3fKqUAHG5M2OxVhunoIewJPgkK5hyphenhyphen9P0Goj98bQ_RrXiY/s1600/medallion+curtains.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtFvVbLskvQQXvXZMfvhCaCTX328-M8gTbicKZaRgqRcNuZ4DGDoJXS9_NmodRptcTsCYEu94a8oSLEaM_4M5pysZpcN57hqm3fKqUAHG5M2OxVhunoIewJPgkK5hyphenhyphen9P0Goj98bQ_RrXiY/s400/medallion+curtains.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
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I also bought this woven basket. I've been looking for a similar one to use for laundry or toy storage in the nursery and the cheapest I'd seen online was $80. No thank you. This bad boy was only $19.99, and I absolutely love the periwinkle/gray colored stripes. Another score!<br />
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Keeping on the nursery purchase track, I also picked up a few more frames for the gallery wall I want to do. Some of the frames have been collected over the years from various places but about half are from Target. I bought three more to finish the look, well at least the look that I like right now :) I can't wait to get my prints and photos in them and hang them up on the wall!<br />
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On another note, I had to drop my little Riley Bug off at the vet this morning to get her teeth cleaned :( I just took her for her annual shots last Wednesday, so I think she was little worried why she was riding in the car alone with me for the second time in a week. This is the pitiful face that stared at me the whole way to the vet. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Qn61RJdBwMyNhcAlxVX3P9Hb_7PYKo2K4i1cdDWblcxHYmYMkmfiF1-Eio1CC7_gdmeRpZOj2CzZduK_rGOgkSs5Q18lJuq70A_jzSh_lWLa5OxeqZ8x3ovbFu462NQhJy6Hwt-thrW8/s1600/wirehaired+dachshund.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2Qn61RJdBwMyNhcAlxVX3P9Hb_7PYKo2K4i1cdDWblcxHYmYMkmfiF1-Eio1CC7_gdmeRpZOj2CzZduK_rGOgkSs5Q18lJuq70A_jzSh_lWLa5OxeqZ8x3ovbFu462NQhJy6Hwt-thrW8/s400/wirehaired+dachshund.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
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She is usually such a morning person, greeting me with her breakfast dance the minute I step out of bed. But she couldn't have any breakfast today. :( Maybe she knew it was coming. After all, she did decide it would be a good idea to catch and kill a lizard and then bring it into the house last night! Jon is always proud and says it's just her "animal instinct." I, on the other hand, am left deeply disturbed and apologizing to the slowly dying victims. On second thought, maybe it is a good thing she's getting her teeth cleaned today. :)<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-90554591648943006742013-08-06T13:35:00.000-05:002013-08-06T13:35:04.732-05:00Nursery BluesMan this nursery design has been a doozy. I've come to the realization that I need to create a line of cute girl bedding this isn't pink, because apparently the limited options out there are no good. <br />
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I've never been a pink girl. Even growing up purple, periwinkle and blue were my favorites. Don't get me wrong, I've found some super cute pink baby outfits for our girl, but having a nursery consumed in pink was not on my agenda. I had my perfect crib bedding in mind but after an exhaustive and expensive search, I came to the realization that it wasn't going to happen. I wanted a blue linen bumper with a taupe piping or flange and a taupe linen bedskirt. Unfortunately, everything I found was out of my price range. Try as I may, I just can't rationalize spending over $400 on crib bedding. My bedding didn't even cost that much and there's a whole lot more to it! Not to mention the fact that Jon would think I was completely insane :) But seriously, how beautiful would this bedding by Elizabeth Allen Atelier be? I could drool over it all day.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRDIJGCcXKyTJM1LhCqQd2tbHn5W2qIV2KFHBcSnGKMcd9YMwmS6WeOPJ0fVb6HQPOtZaMefDiuCy3H0rJwvc3_G5wfo6rm0qK3Ky9qbT6168GUfDcLJX4BvYzmn1P8VNXusNBTnzyveBP/s1600/elizabeth+allen+atelier+silver-emmanuel-crib-bedding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRDIJGCcXKyTJM1LhCqQd2tbHn5W2qIV2KFHBcSnGKMcd9YMwmS6WeOPJ0fVb6HQPOtZaMefDiuCy3H0rJwvc3_G5wfo6rm0qK3Ky9qbT6168GUfDcLJX4BvYzmn1P8VNXusNBTnzyveBP/s1600/elizabeth+allen+atelier+silver-emmanuel-crib-bedding.jpg" /></a></div>
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With a new determination to find something sweet and simple, I came across a white pique bumper and bedskirt option. The bumper has gray piping and ties and can easily be monogrammed (another preference of mine). From there, the nursery began to take shape. The sheet below is not part of my ensemble. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIqC2IAqp80JZitE4YEjBQCL4E-c-Pz-XrAfxaDjFC-w8E9gd-rx3xYP6TfmoPrbcwC4L-WJmWZOrrScEFyxzvDkK1A54dZfNrDI2eEPPVW1NFuaTg_mDQ0D0cQBkK_ifByTCVPq8ih8cU/s1600/pique+bedding.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIqC2IAqp80JZitE4YEjBQCL4E-c-Pz-XrAfxaDjFC-w8E9gd-rx3xYP6TfmoPrbcwC4L-WJmWZOrrScEFyxzvDkK1A54dZfNrDI2eEPPVW1NFuaTg_mDQ0D0cQBkK_ifByTCVPq8ih8cU/s320/pique+bedding.jpg" width="276" /></a></div>
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As mentioned in a previous post, I'd already picked out a crib from Restoration Hardware Baby and Child that is in a distressed gray dove finish so I didn't have an issues there. And a few weeks ago I ordered my rocking chair that I'm oh so excited about. It's backordered until mid September but Jon won't be home until then to assemble and move it anyway :)<br />
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The other big pieces in the room are coming from Virginia (where my grandfather's antiques have been stored). I'll be using either an antique twin bed or an upholstered sofa as an extra sleeping place in the room. I have to seem them again in person first to decide. I hoping they'll arrive to my mom's this month and then eventually make their way down here to the coast. <br />
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We were lucky enough to inherit beadboard already on the walls in the room, so all we'll need to do is paint... once Jon gets home. When asked what I miss most from being pregnant, I have to say it's <strike>my ability</strike> being allowed to DO things. I am a doer. When my mind is set on something, I want to get it done right then and there. That doesn't happen these days. I can't paint (although I've threatened to put on Jon's gas mask and give it a go anyway), I can't move furniture, I can't lift things. I would love to take some of Jon's to do list items and put them on my own, but I can't. Patience. I'm learning patience.<br />
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Anyway, with all of that being said, here's my dream board for the nursery. I have the antique couch on the board right now because that's what I think I'm leaning towards. It currently has green velvet upholstery, so I'll need to work that into the space unless we get it recovered. For now, it's staying green, and I think it will actually work well with the other muted neutrals and blues in the space. Overall, I wanted a sweet, soothing space for our little girl's haven. I hope it all comes together like I imagine!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeWSdnh3qprUlfvYEq2eC3Rc4sY8lxXgJ0UZTIGsj4HEF0wHYcxM2YgXSJkYaZgmIJ_EnJ76ZD3NLdFR4yGYRaq4Q222gWt5dktUdnZFbgaaGKvR_lX4FrtVEb77JhzhMafgXI3CCSr2RR/s1600/Neutral+Girl+Nursery+Board.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="544" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeWSdnh3qprUlfvYEq2eC3Rc4sY8lxXgJ0UZTIGsj4HEF0wHYcxM2YgXSJkYaZgmIJ_EnJ76ZD3NLdFR4yGYRaq4Q222gWt5dktUdnZFbgaaGKvR_lX4FrtVEb77JhzhMafgXI3CCSr2RR/s640/Neutral+Girl+Nursery+Board.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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My favorite thing about the room is all of the personal touches and family pieces that will be in the space. There's just something about being surrounded by pieces with so much history. And speaking of personal touches, I have some new pieces that will be coming into the space that I can't wait to share with you guys once they are finished. Yay! It's finally all starting to come together!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-10101029449189996532013-08-01T14:12:00.001-05:002017-07-24T19:30:47.231-05:00How I Announced My PregnancyWell hello friends and faithful readers. Sorry for the absence as of late. I wish I had some great excuse, but in all honesty, I have just been zapped of any desire to write. I've had plenty of time on my hands but my decisiveness, even in regards to a blog post, has been non-existent. <br />
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But today I thought I'd share a little something I've been meaning to share for months--how we announced our pregnancy, well at least the creative ways. Most of our close friends and family live hours away so the whole "telling them in person" thing wasn't really an option for my impatient self (Jon was still in Afghanistan for another month). However, I was lucky enough to have one of my best friends, Bekah, coming down for a visit a few days after I found out. I thought it would be the perfect chance to have one creative thought come to life.<br />
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I decided to design a hotel-esque welcome sign for the guest bed listing all who lived at The Reutter Hotel, including our new baby :) Here's a close-up of the design. You can purchase your own <a href="https://www.etsy.com/listing/196728354/pregnancy-announcement-for-visitor-bed?ref=shop_home_active_1" target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
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I had the tent card all set up and ready to go before Bekah arrived. The funny part is that when I went out to greet her, she handed me a bottle of wine as a hostess gift. I said "thank you" and raved about it a bit in hopes that I wouldn't give myself away before she even made it to her room. How ironic that her sweet hostess gift was a bottle of wine, something I wouldn't get to taste for nine months.<br />
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Once I showed her to her room, I had the thought "What if she just glances at the sign and says 'How cute?' without really reading what it says?" Luckily, she did read it and it was so exciting to share the big news with someone in person finally! And I got to save the sign for the baby book :)<br />
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I wanted to think of a creative way to tell another one of my dear friends, Mindy, as well. Mainly because Mindy has been asking and/or hoping I would get pregnant for some time now. Every time I would pin anything baby related on Pinterest, I'd get a message from her asking if I had something to tell her. She was so excited for this point to come in mine and Jon's life that I knew a normal "Guess what? I'm pregnant!" announcement wouldn't do. But I wanted to catch her off guard, as I think those are the best surprises. <br />
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Mindy always finds adorable prints and sayings online that she often asks if I can recreate for her home. So I thought I could use that to my advantage. A few months before, I had created a print for her showcasing important dates in the life/marriage of her parents, including their birthdays, wedding day and their children's birthdays. I decided to make one of my own, with the last date listed being the due date of Baby Reutter. I created the print and sent it to her in an email saying something like "I loved the print you had me do so much that I had to make one for our own home." I've edited some of the dates for privacy reasons, but here's the idea.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNuP1YVH248t1fmfN4vrrNaq68tM9Jzxvub2_oB0u_VBPx7vGCOfIHoCGpVll-1pdAHTfwE4KzrOt1iK2FNAW6qUS8FrSfFQ1nh0vClvzkoemhu1M38bGeSInyEoTSAblvMGmGCMOoAS7e/s1600/what+a+difference+a+day+makes+baby+announcement.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNuP1YVH248t1fmfN4vrrNaq68tM9Jzxvub2_oB0u_VBPx7vGCOfIHoCGpVll-1pdAHTfwE4KzrOt1iK2FNAW6qUS8FrSfFQ1nh0vClvzkoemhu1M38bGeSInyEoTSAblvMGmGCMOoAS7e/s640/what+a+difference+a+day+makes+baby+announcement.png" width="443" /></a></div>
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Needless to say, she was surprised and I got an excited phone call shortly after. <br />
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Babies are such blessings, and I had so fun thinking of how to make these announcements. Now, if only my former creativity would come back to me so I could finish hammering out the details for the baby's nursery... More on that coming soon!<br />
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-24966213658287581082013-07-15T11:08:00.001-05:002014-01-09T12:01:01.358-06:00Planes or Pearls? Gender Reveal Party<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
On Friday, June 28th, Jon and I headed out to see the gender of Baby Reutter. Jon wanted to find out as soon as possible, and I wanted to wait to be surprised with everyone at the reveal party the next day. So we decided that he would find out and be the one set up the "big reveal." Baby Reutter didn't want to cooperate on the first attempt but after some cold water, walking around and sweet patience from the ultrasound tech, we got the "money shot." I'm not going to lie, it was a bit torturous at first to not be in the know with Jon, but after the first few hours, I was good to go and so excited about the surprise for the next day. Here we are about to head out to the reveal appointment.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisGoCL7SiABH08qMD4wq0D5M0YAtWF6LJkrsodAaiXWQGxfAQ7kbdzVifYnt8eyrH_-hyu0RTejeRzL3c7wZOsv-95wyLQsh6xUa_a8ZmXmJSdivGHSVE883lpdqDDAB_2jJCsNdjLuDBk/s1600/IMG_5568.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEisGoCL7SiABH08qMD4wq0D5M0YAtWF6LJkrsodAaiXWQGxfAQ7kbdzVifYnt8eyrH_-hyu0RTejeRzL3c7wZOsv-95wyLQsh6xUa_a8ZmXmJSdivGHSVE883lpdqDDAB_2jJCsNdjLuDBk/s400/IMG_5568.JPG" height="400" width="266" /></a></div>
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Now for the reveal party on Saturday...As mentioned before, I wanted a unique theme for the party. Since Jon is a pilot, I thought planes would be a cute idea for a boy. For the girl, I thought of pearls; they're sweet, feminine and also happen to be my birthstone. Thus, the Planes or Pearls? reveal party was born. I created the invitation and got to work on all of the other details. I'll let the photos do most of the talking...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5fqo_K3qaYKnJ1UStxToY69qIOphkpjZ40qQu71nQanZDATX0IisYc1EE0d_m5os6Np9HG18aDQRpfVH5XO5ZE1sxULBI0ta1SmOCaxMFPGXvsotY-I7cb_KAyvetVFjMSA5Viwvbwkpu/s1600/planes+or+pearls+gender+reveal+party.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5fqo_K3qaYKnJ1UStxToY69qIOphkpjZ40qQu71nQanZDATX0IisYc1EE0d_m5os6Np9HG18aDQRpfVH5XO5ZE1sxULBI0ta1SmOCaxMFPGXvsotY-I7cb_KAyvetVFjMSA5Viwvbwkpu/s640/planes+or+pearls+gender+reveal+party.jpg" height="640" width="456" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipwm1Af3mu-rjwLxrkToOVxGW0oKk2YUeytVmy1ctVfEqy2A5yctegggtNv9UCZyPAKCfSH9RSef8tgllK9bmOcsOOTnU-Brg7rLh4CEMFIhl7gHMRLGTMsUGCBMgvvVxwTajZfAXKvSaU/s1600/IMG_5581.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEipwm1Af3mu-rjwLxrkToOVxGW0oKk2YUeytVmy1ctVfEqy2A5yctegggtNv9UCZyPAKCfSH9RSef8tgllK9bmOcsOOTnU-Brg7rLh4CEMFIhl7gHMRLGTMsUGCBMgvvVxwTajZfAXKvSaU/s640/IMG_5581.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigoB-OXzu9R2HrAoBdptPWtjywC_nBYeqcD6cQJVupG8kDlpYS_vhTmLupJ5CIQjwX9bizB8KwSVpdgNrDBe2Zpd1uLu7Co6tQsJWgxPwrUnXXKaroOh49ARyVWX9MkdlNCfDyRuSkBitK/s1600/IMG_5616.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigoB-OXzu9R2HrAoBdptPWtjywC_nBYeqcD6cQJVupG8kDlpYS_vhTmLupJ5CIQjwX9bizB8KwSVpdgNrDBe2Zpd1uLu7Co6tQsJWgxPwrUnXXKaroOh49ARyVWX9MkdlNCfDyRuSkBitK/s640/IMG_5616.JPG" height="640" width="426" /></a></div>
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The plane flying the "precious cargo" banner is a vintage airplane that belonged to my great uncle. I'm so glad we got to put it to use!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQCSi_pKKFaInpkfoU9Hy-6A8sn95VHZyAXYvYvLhg4SFVvPJ4T21qNzE_2Wy4gJRQAmhQ8lfmp5U9jRq6t3ByAlXWUQwYU5NdTivpFmWEY1qj5HFVPJDyhWaHGkexrOfl3LrR9d8g0_La/s1600/IMG_5590.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQCSi_pKKFaInpkfoU9Hy-6A8sn95VHZyAXYvYvLhg4SFVvPJ4T21qNzE_2Wy4gJRQAmhQ8lfmp5U9jRq6t3ByAlXWUQwYU5NdTivpFmWEY1qj5HFVPJDyhWaHGkexrOfl3LrR9d8g0_La/s640/IMG_5590.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></div>
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The entry table had baby photos of Jon and myself as well as one of the ultrasound pics of Baby Reutter. It is also where guests casted their votes and picked up their pilot wings or pearl necklaces to show their guess.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR2CMIkLTep2pylL0WNFA-ShXXK2ZgApk8rf9rW3EYKNvCSZorCkT-_essffThwbkOi_yAJVEdio_DMMAWxl2PDCN1G6KjfaaK-shDPJncL-yo5h-2bbs68KNjI9zNjME7GRw6dRsfLR9P/s1600/IMG_5593.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjR2CMIkLTep2pylL0WNFA-ShXXK2ZgApk8rf9rW3EYKNvCSZorCkT-_essffThwbkOi_yAJVEdio_DMMAWxl2PDCN1G6KjfaaK-shDPJncL-yo5h-2bbs68KNjI9zNjME7GRw6dRsfLR9P/s640/IMG_5593.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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It was so fun coming up with all of the signs and details for the party theme. These signs I made were some of my favorites.</div>
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Jon's patches were the perfect touch on the planes side of the table.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt-fHYRrUs85Lse2vpb7ruhd5QYe4TOfiohR_wLabomJLhvJJ8vCQxM6NYHOXl7xjqSrT58CQ0R1m_pJu9DowhRx0n3Fi9Kh5nQGbHxNkecCRBAT0Aq3Pf1U-3sapwVM89sVwfGmdthruR/s1600/IMG_5594.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgt-fHYRrUs85Lse2vpb7ruhd5QYe4TOfiohR_wLabomJLhvJJ8vCQxM6NYHOXl7xjqSrT58CQ0R1m_pJu9DowhRx0n3Fi9Kh5nQGbHxNkecCRBAT0Aq3Pf1U-3sapwVM89sVwfGmdthruR/s640/IMG_5594.JPG" height="426" width="640" /></a></div>
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No party is complete without a drink station, or in our case, a refueling station :)<br />
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We kept the food menu pretty simple with burgers, pasta salad, chips, fruit, ice cream and cupcakes.</div>
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My mom made the circle garland by sewing together 2.5" circle punches I made from scrapbook paper. It was such a simple and easy project that I'm sure I'll do again.<br />
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Of course, I couldn't just have ice cream...an ice cream bar with your choice of toppings was a must for this summer soiree!</div>
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The cupcakes were filled with blue and pink filling, and the girl ones were topped with "pearl" gum balls.<br />
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Now that all of the details are out...let's talk reveal! Here's Jon "suiting" up the dogs for the big show. They were set to run out the front door to me and all of the guests wearing signs with the big reveal. Remington was to wear a "Baby Brother" or "Baby Sister" sign while Riley followed with a sign that said "...is landing." Would baby sister or baby brother be coming in for approach?</div>
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Here come the dogs!...Remi says "It's a boy!"<br />
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In all of our excitement and focus on Remington, we forgot Jon was still inside...until he came walking out with a sign of his own. What?!? Baby sister?! I have to give it to him. He threw us all for a loop! It was the best surprise!<br />
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We can't wait to meet our sweet baby girl! To see the video of the reveal, go <a href="http://www.houseofhydrangeas.com/2013/07/its-a.html">here</a>.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIZglbUkQsuOWUM1mPiTsAjdvFtexS91f02nJF4UdpWYdFUVftmjCFKqQK_OOiTyr7DyPj62spHiXN49GW4QNIKx1nGCN1lPiLLTWr0JIvF7UyNF1jkMDUpPyPADQI9RntS1A0ViSjOtW/s1600/Mer+Reveal+Photos5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBIZglbUkQsuOWUM1mPiTsAjdvFtexS91f02nJF4UdpWYdFUVftmjCFKqQK_OOiTyr7DyPj62spHiXN49GW4QNIKx1nGCN1lPiLLTWr0JIvF7UyNF1jkMDUpPyPADQI9RntS1A0ViSjOtW/s640/Mer+Reveal+Photos5.jpg" height="456" width="640" /></a></div>
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Now for the guesses...Those that guessed "Planes."</div>
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Those that guessed "Pearls." The planes were slightly outnumbered. :)</div>
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Well, it looks like the majority was right! :)<br />
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Baby Sister is landing sometime around late November!</div>
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This party could have not been a success without all of the friends and family who came down to help and celebrate with us. I know many of you drove hours just to be here with us and share in this exciting time of our little blessing. We are so thankful for each and every one of you and love you dearly! Our baby girl is already so very loved :)</div>
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**Please email me through my Contact Me link at the top of the blog if you are interested in purchasing any of my printables you see.</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-42888817988226284502013-07-09T15:41:00.000-05:002013-07-09T15:55:11.773-05:00Baby Reutter is a...Two days ago marked the three year anniversary of this blog. And this post is the 500th post... seems like it should be a good one, huh? <br />
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I think the best way to celebrate is by sharing what the gender of our baby will be. As you may remember, the theme of our gender reveal party was Planes or Pearls. So we decided to send our dogs out with the big news wearing signs saying "Baby Brother/Baby Sister" on Remington and "...is landing" on Riley. Jon was the only one who knew the sex beforehand so he was in charge of getting them "dressed." It was such a great surprise! Enjoy the video :)<br />
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I'll post pictures and details from the party very soon!</div>
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Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-2948327267071521502.post-90761913184319828852013-06-19T13:13:00.002-05:002013-06-19T13:13:42.246-05:00Progress in the Man CaveWell, a lot has been going on over here. I've been prepping for our gender reveal party (which is a week from this Saturday!) while the man cave and guest rooms in our home have been getting some makeovers. <br />
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The guest room and nursery are getting crown molding installed (we had it in our room and the dining room but not the three guest rooms for some reason), and the man cave is also getting board and batten where the bamboo used to be. Bamboo, you say? Let me remind you of how beautiful this room used to be. Metallic gold paint up top and sheets of bamboo on the bottom. Just not for me.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1hf0jxmJff3XRbrFm6IljMyQGOc9GrbjYe92qLkeORwM01-tfX2BVBxXb9LUTjVAHGBj19TXHzmDGPrI0fL-NpqIwARdTDLHhpECZYRaZlAq8IpO-PYPUwSj3IwBuPhLDim9tLD6cf-mB/s1600/man+cave+before.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1hf0jxmJff3XRbrFm6IljMyQGOc9GrbjYe92qLkeORwM01-tfX2BVBxXb9LUTjVAHGBj19TXHzmDGPrI0fL-NpqIwARdTDLHhpECZYRaZlAq8IpO-PYPUwSj3IwBuPhLDim9tLD6cf-mB/s1600/man+cave+before.jpg" /></a></div>
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I dreamed of a cozy and clean space that would be manly and classic... and a place for Jon to put all of his currently boxed up military memorabilia. Charcoal Slate paint from Benjamin Moore was just what I envisioned, and the white board and batten that will run along the bottom will add some architecture while keeping the room from being too dark.<br />
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Here's a progress shot. It's already a world of a difference from where we started, and it should be complete by Friday! Ahhh...there's nothing like a newly transformed space!<br />
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Here's one more side by side for comparison. I'll post an "after" shot once we get it all in order.<br />
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