A Dino-mite First Birthday

Well, it has happened. Our bouncing baby boy is now ONE!

As most of you know, or at least now you will, I love birthdays. Next to Christmas, they are my favorite celebrations. I've had a blast planning an executing birthday parties for my daughter, and of course, I had to do the same for my sweet boy.

I went back and forth with themes and upon sifting through some ideas with my daughter, I was finally able to settle on one. In truth, she insisted that he have an orange dinosaur cake...so, dinosaurs it was.

Here is a look at his big day!

The Attire

July is hot. I wanted something cute and comfortable. I ran across this adorable outfit and knew it was the one.

::via::

This boy is dino-mite!

The Food

I had a blast pulling the food together for his party. I also had some amazing helpers. My mom, mother-in-law and good friend all pitched in to help make the food amazing. Keep in mind, I am all about keeping our celebrations inexpensive and simple. No sense in breaking the bank.

First off, lets talk about the cake. G insisted he have an orange dinosaur cake. This momma tried to deliver. I created a little dino from fondant and plopped him on top of a chocolate iced cake. I used gummy fruit wedges that my hubby helped trim into spikes for the bottom of the cake. This was actually N's smash cake and an overall success. The cupcakes were just simply iced and topped with additional gummy fruit wedges.

My amazing friend, Charity, made this AWESOME watermelon dinosaur head. I had really hoped to do it myself, but time was not on my side. She is such an amazing person and willingly offered to carve this masterpiece. Everyone loved it!

In keeping things simple, I scored these dinosaur shaped chicken nuggets and paired them along side some pizza rolls. My mother-in-law contributed her oh-so-delicious meatballs.

The Décor

Balloons! I have become a huge fan of them. They add wonderful color and always add a festive touch. I used them as some basic decorations on the tables and cake tables. I was able to score some adorable dinosaur masks that I scattered on the tables for the kids' enjoyment. Simple. Cheap. Oh, so cute.

I also set up a book for people to sign on the gift table. I've done this for my daughter as well. It is such a sweet keepsake as people write down thoughtful birthday wishes. I also included a slideshow of pictures of N's first year. ::mommytears::

Overall, I am thrilled with how his party turned out. We had so much fun in coming together to celebrate his precious little life. I am so thankful for everyone that came to share his birthday celebration with us. We are truly blessed.

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Baby N's [2nd] Trip to the Emergency Room

At one month we took our sweet boy to the Emergency Department per our pediatrician. You can read about that experience here. Fortunately, by the Lord’s goodness, he was quickly healed and all was well. It was my hope to never have another venture such as that again. As life would have it, we can hope, but sometimes things still may not go as we’d like.

Saturday began wonderfully. Both kids woke up happy and G was eager to attend her friend’s birthday party that morning. I noticed N had two little red dots close to his eye and another couple on his knee. I assumed they were bug bites from having been outside the evening before. No big deal.

Tooth #5 broke through that morning...

We went to the party, which began around 10am and I noticed another little spot had developed on his face and a couple more on his leg, as well as his arm. He had been in the grass playing near the playground and it was warm. I once again assumed either he had gotten bitten by something or the heat was causing his eczema to flair a little. No worries.

Around 11am there were more noticeable spots and when I changed his diaper, I saw several had developed on his stomach and diaper area. Still thinking it was probably the heat, I was not too worried. I just kept him cool and hydrated. He seemed un-phased and happy. I left it alone.

By 12:30pm when we left, my friend’s mother-in-law pointed out that he appeared to have several more spots or “bites”. She was right…a little bit of worry began to creep in. By the time we got home, the spots were multiplying at an alarming rate and they were getting larger. I contacted a nurse friend and she recommended we take him to the Emergency Department.

I dropped my daughter off with my in-laws and my mother came along with me to the hospital (my husband was on a day trip). We arrived about 4:30pm at the hospital and got him registered. By this time, the spots on his face had begun to merge. He was quickly developing more spots and the ones he had were getting larger. I was anxious to find out what was wrong with my boy. I kept going through everything since the night before…had he eaten something new? Did I notice any actual insect bites? Had he touched something? What was I missing?!

The rash progression (it was all over his body by the afternoon)

Eventually we were taken back to a room and met with several doctors. The lead doctor determined that N has roseola. He had a fever a couple of days ago that I attributed to his runny nose. However, the doctor said that was his body fighting off this virus. I have no idea where he picked it up. We left a little after 8pm and headed home. We basically have to let it run its course and the doctor did warn me that the rash would look worse before it got better.

As of this morning, that has proven true.

-Sunday morning-

Bless his heart

I’m grateful that his condition is nothing more serious and will pass. I swear this little guy just likes to make his mommy worry. We’ve had several health related scares with him. He doesn’t tend to get the typical “whatever is going around” kind of stuff…it’s always something bigger and more dramatic. ::sigh:: Regardless, I am so thankful for a healthy boy. Despite the rash, they deemed him in perfect health and when this passes, he will be as good as new.

::via::

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5 Lessons I've Learned Since Going Low Carb

I am about 5 months into adjusting to a Low Carb (LC) way of eating (WOE). I’ve had several people join me on this journey. I’ve gotten asked multiple questions over these past few months and I thought I’d share a few things I’ve learned thus far.

1.

It’s all or nothing.

I’ve learned that you are either committed or you are not. My sweet hubby jumps on board every now and then but has yet to really stick with it. I have found that everyone has to use the principles of LC eating in a way that fits them, but they must be committed to seeing it through. I set a limit of 100 or less net carbs a day. I typically average 40 or so. The hardest part to date is finding foods that fill me up, because I refuse to be hungry, and allow me to stay within my parameters. I also make sure I stay within my sodium limits. I was diagnosed with high BP during my first pregnancy (we still don’t know why) and it has not regulated since. While I’m on the high end of normal, I could cross into a chronic issue at any time. Watching my sodium is just as important as losing weight. I also maintain a balance with my fat and cholesterol intake. No matter what you decide to do, you have to either be all in or not. It’s the only way a true lifestyle change can occur.

2.

Track it.

I track my food almost daily. Sometimes it hurts to put in what I’ve eaten (which means I did not make a very good choice) while other days, I am amazed at how content I am and how few carbs I’ve eaten. By tracking my food intake, I not only can easily see my carb intake, but I can easily monitor my sodium, fat and cholesterol intake. I keep an eye on the cholesterol simply because a lot of LC eating involves some foods that are higher on that end and as we know, too much of a good thing is not always a good thing.

3.

This is life.

I am adjusting to a new way of life when it comes to LC eating. I now find myself naturally leaning towards lower carb options at restaurants and only allow myself to visit some of my high carb favorite dining establishments every now and then. We do not eat out often, but I’ve definitely become pickier. I want quality food with options that I know will allow me to have something other than a salad. I’m not paying good money for a bowl of greens if I’m going out. With all of this in mind, I know there are days when I do not worry so much about my carb allotment. For instance, we just celebrated my son’s first birthday. I enjoyed every bit of it…the finger foods, the fruit, the cake…EVERYTHING! And I did not feel guilty. That’s the beauty of this. Because I am not making over indulging choices regularly anymore, I can feel good about enjoying days like that without the guilt.

4.

Preparation is key.

Whether it’s meal planning, pre-cooking, or setting my mind in the right place, I have to be prepared. I make a monthly menu that centers on LC meals. This dictates my shopping list. I will often cook a large amount of protein (chicken, beef, etc) at the beginning of the week or make double/triple of what I’d need for one meal, so that I have plenty of extra to help with other meals. I also have to get in the right mindset. Whether I’m cooking at home or joining friends out, I have to make sure I am prepared to face temptations. I must mentally prepare to make the better decisions. It has gotten so much easier as time has gone on…I won’t lie, the first month was definitely the hardest.

5.

It’s not all about the scale.

One of my dear friends bases too much of her success on the scale. We talk about this regularly. I’ve encouraged her to start taking measurements. I’ve also noticed a major increase in her muscle tone…and as most of us know, muscle weighs more than fat. The scale may not always move, but there are other tell-tale signs of success. Do not be defeated just because the scale is not showing you what you hoped to see.

I am regularly encouraged by those who are doing this with me. I feel better and I’m proud of my success. I am finally in a size smaller pant and I don’t cringe when I look in the mirror. I’m learning how to love myself where I am. I know I need to incorporate real exercise and I desperately need to start toning. These are my upcoming goals. So, whether you are just beginning a new journey or you’ve been on one for a while, keep going. It is totally worth it.

Tuesday Talk

Our Baby Boy is One!

I am typing this in a public coffee shop in hope that I will not bawl like a baby.

Our sweet boy is now officially ONE!

I've embraced every milestone up to this point, but this one has been very difficult. In speaking with other moms, they agree that they have mourned the milestones more so with their second than with their first. For some it is because the second child may be their last and for some it is because they are fully aware of how quickly the time is actually passing.

So...as I sit here typing these words, finalizing my party plans list, double check my shopping list, and plan the most productive route, I find it hard to concentrate because I keep coming back to thoughts of my sweet boy.

We struggled to conceive this little miracle and my heart is so full as I think about how he came into our lives. He was so wanted. He was faithfully prayed for.

He is a dream come true.

Newborn perfection

One year old awesomeness

Weight: 23lbs

Height: 31 inches

Clothes: 9-12 months

Eat: You are eating so many new foods these days. One of your favorites has become spaghetti. You are warming up to peas but you would still prefer not to eat them. You are eating much more of what we are eating and slowly, but surely, you are moving away from baby food. You are now drinking whole milk. You have approximately 18-22 ounces a day. We'll soon be weaning you off of your morning bottle since you have transitioned off of your night bottle nicely. You are doing much better with your cup and we can count on you to now drink water throughout the day.

Sleep: You are still a great sleeper. You are going down for your naps in your crib now, instead of your swing, and you are sleeping better. You nap for about 30-40 minutes in the morning and then for about 1-1.5 hours in the afternoon.

Play: You are moving everywhere! You are constantly pulling up on things and trying to walk along the edge. You have mastered this pretty well in your crib and along the bottom stair. You love things that roll, whether it be cars or balls. You also love books. You cannot get enough of playing in the water. Bath time is truly your favorite.

You are a major fan of peek-a-boo. We get serious giggles when we play this game.

Music still makes you dance and you love to interact with your sister. She has a way about her that captivates you and we continue to pray that you two remain close.

You are making a lot of strides. You babble all of the time. While your vocabulary is still quite small, you are very serious when you "talk" to us. You say "mama", "dada", "di-di" (bye-bye), and "uh-oh". You clap when you are excited and when you get really pumped up, you shake your fists and make a really funny face. You are learning to share with your sister. You both have a bit of a temper, which comes with the red hair, and you are learning that things will not always go your way.

You are learning about the word "no". I get the biggest kick out of your response. When told "no", you poke out that bottom lip and bring on the crocodile tears. Sometimes you'll even lay yourself on the floor and cry. You are far more dramatic than your sister ever was.

This past month has consisted of some big things. You had an eye appointment at the beginning of the month. About a month ago you were displaying some abnormal eye movements and the pediatrician was concerned. We attempted to identify the cause but your eyes are perfect. The movements have since drastically decreased. We just keep a close watch on you these days.

You had your first experience at VBS. You were only there one night because the program runs so late. You did pretty well, but definitely made it known that we had passed your bedtime.

We celebrated Father's Day with your daddy. He is truly the best and I am so grateful that he is here to show you how to grow into a Godly man. You're a blessed little boy.

We had a play date with some other families up at the church. It was a blast and you did really well.

Your birthday party will be this coming weekend. Your sister insists that you need an orange dinosaur cake...so that is what you will have. You'll have a dinosaur birthday (which I'll post about soon). We love you so much!

A prayer for our son:

Dear Jesus,

We thank you for gracing us with his conception and full term pregnancy. He may have been born 11 days early by the calendar, but born on the day You ordained in Heaven for him. We thank You for this past year. It has come with many trials as we've learned to adapt to his personality, needs and wants. We thank You for the calm, sweet spirit that You have instilled in him. We thank You for the fire that he shows from time to time. I thank You for Your provision and guidance as we raise this child that You have gifted to us.

We pray for the closeness among our family. We pray the relationships that continue to form are binding, strong, and stable. We pray that as he grows, You will help us lead him in a way that will result in a Godly young man of God. We pray that he will one day come to know You as his Savior. We pray for patience and guidance as we continue to raise him to love and serve You. We pray that you begin preparing his heart for the day that He will accept You and learn about what it is You want for his life. We know he was brought into this world for an amazing purpose and we pray that we will help instill the character traits, confidence, and motivation that he will need to pursue what it is You have for him.

We pray a fortress of protection around his life. We pray that you guard his heart, mind, body, and soul as he grows. We know he will face opposition and we want to help ensure that he is confident in all that You have made him so that he can stay strong. We are so in love with this little boy and we can't thank You enough for Your gift. We know that He is yours and we are humbled by the task before us, and committed to parenting this amazing child. Thank you, sweet Jesus, for this precious life. We look forward to another year of amazing firsts.

Amen.

His first year of life...

Linking up for a Mommy Moments

Monthly Weight Loss Update June 2016

Here I am, 4 months in to this new WOE. I can honestly say, that despite the occasional challenges, I am honestly liking. I like how I feel. I like how I am beginning to look. I like the food. I like that I am not hungry.

This is truly a way of life for me.

::via::

This month was a little slow going in the way of weight loss, but overall, I am still pleased with what is taking place. I had a few more splurge days than normal and I know that is where my downfall lies. I'm still trying to master eating out...and even though we do not eat out often, it remains a challenge for me. I also struggle some when we go to the homes of friends or family to eat. Because what I am doing has nothing to do with allergies, people aren't as aware of what is best for me to eat. I make due and if I am able to contribute to the meal, I try to ensure that I bring something that I know I can enjoy without exceeding my carb limit.

This month did result in some changes...

I am down 3.8lbs from last month which puts me at a total loss of 23.8lbs. I'm down a total of 5.5 inches overall. I can tell this primarily in my chest and waist.

I continue to experiment with different recipes. I always try them out with my husband and daughter, and thankfully, most of them have been family approved. This is very important considering I am making this a lifestyle.

Over the last month or so, I have had a couple of friends/family members jump on board. I love having the support. We share recipes, frustrations and successes. I really encourage you to find the right kind of support if you are going this route. My goal is to have my husband join me on this journey but I have not quite convinced him to do so yet. Fingers crossed.

I am continually reminded that when this change is hard, I am doing it for a better quality of life. My God has already numbered my days, but I want to care for myself and make each one of those count. I'm learning how not to allow my "messy days" to take over all the good I've accomplished. A couple steps back will not keep me going backwards. Thanks again to all of you who continue to walk this journey with me and encourage me along the way.

Linking up for Mommy Moments

::via::

Life Lately

Despite being summer break, things are going at warp speed. There has been very little down time. This has made these days go far too quickly. I'm hoping July will be a little more chill.

Here's a little of what is going on...

WHAT WE'RE EATING

I am constantly looking  for or creating recipes that fit into my Low Carb WOE. This week I threw together some ingredients that I had not used throughout this month. The result was delish!

Creamy Salsa Verde Chicken

1lb boneless, skinless chicken breast

1c salsa Verde

2oz cream cheese

In a slow cooker, spread a thin layer of salsa on the bottom. Lay your chicken on top and cover with the remaining salsa. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until your chicken is cooked through and easily shredded. Shred the chicken and add in the cream cheese. stir to combine well. The cream cheese will melt and add a creaminess to your already delicious chicken. When it is completely heated through, serve on tortillas, nacho chips or lettuce leaves with your favorite toppings.

WHAT IM REMINISCING ABOUT

Our little guy will be one on Friday. I can't help but look back at those first few days of newness.

WHAT I'M LOVING

I'm loving our new pool...while it is nothing grand and spectacular, we are having a blast in it. It's just big enough that we can all enjoy it together and yet it is small enough that G can fearlessly "swim like a mermaid".

WHAT WE'VE BEEN UP TO

Honestly, there has not been too much excitement. We are currently working on packing up the house and completing much needed and long overdue projects. It looks like we may be moving into our temporary rental by the end of the summer (as long as all continues to go well) and we'll put the house up for sale at that point. We had the outside painted this past week and it has made a world of difference. My mom and I cleaned every window in the house, inside and out. We've bought paint to streamline the rooms and had our stairwell professionally painted. There are boxes everywhere but they serve as reminders that our dreams are slowly coming true.

WHAT I'M DREADING

Multiple moves and the start of school.

I wish we could just move into our forever home but we can't manage two mortgages. We'll eventually move into a rental and then move into our house once it is built (which will happen upon selling our current home). I'm also dreading the start of school. I LOVE being home with my littles, and despite loving my job, I miss them terribly when  I return to work.

WHAT I'M WORKING ON

Birthday décor...N will turn one on Friday and we'll have his first birthday party on Saturday. Crazy!

WHAT I'M EXCITED ABOUT

We finally decided to take a vacation. We were considering not doing one this year but with all that has gone on and all that will go on, we decided it would be a nice break.

WHAT I'M WATCHING/READING

I'm eagerly awaiting my hard copy of 31 Days of Prayer During Infertility by Lisa Newton. I've been getting to know her over the last couple of months, which has been such a treat considering I've been loving her blog for quite a while. I'll be reviewing this book and sharing my thoughts in the near future.

WHAT I'M LISTENIMG TO

Just about every time we get in the car, G asks for her "Jesus music". Thrive by Casting Crowns is by far her favorite song and it is the song that when she wants Jesus music must be played.

WHAT I'M WEARING

Anything light weight that won't cling in this summer heat and humidity.

WHAT I'M DOING THIS WEEKEND
Celebrating N's First Birthday!!!

WHAT I'M LOOKING FORWARD TO NEXT MONTH

Vacation

Getting settled in our new (temporary) place

Various birthday celebrations

4th of July celebrations

WHAT ELSE IS NEW

I've been working really hard to get my health back in order.  That primarily has consisted of my taking on a low carb woe to achieve my weight loss goals. I'm down over 20lbs and getting so close to my first weight loss goal of 30lbs. I hope to hit it before school starts this fall. I'm currently down 23.8lbs!

Linking up with Mel for What's Up Wednesday

Low Carb Mexican Chicken Bake

I've been trying to come up with low carb recipes that will allow me to enjoy our weekly Taco Tuesday nights without always resorting to a taco salad. This has led me to a new favorite...

Mexican Chicken Bake

Ingredients 

1.5c diced chicken (I used leftover rotisserie chicken)

1/2c black beans, rinsed and drained

1/2c Rotel

1/2c shredded pepper jack cheese

1/2c shredded Mexican blend cheese

Preheat your oven to 400. 

In an 8x8 baking dish that has been coated with nonstick cooking spray, mix the chicken, beans and tomatoes together. Top with both cheeses. Bake 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and melted completely. Enjoy with a little sour cream or on a low carb tortilla. 

Serves 6