Doug, Fish, Asher, & Taj Benjamin

Planning trips for the year 2012

2012-01-24T23:20:00.007-06:00

So I'm turning 30 in June and since I was not able to go to a beautiful beach last year I asked to go to Cabo...made it really easy on Doug, right?Well, he wants to go to Alaska for our wedding anniversary in July-- 5 years already! Yes, I agree that is a very cool trip. He even agreed to make it a cruise. He's gone on many in the past, however I have not. He does not like cruises, so I appreciate him for trying on this idea. Plus we'll get to leave out of Seattle, and I've always wanted to check out that city! Going in the summer will hopefully give us some reprieve from the hot weather I know we'll be having in Houston.
AND we want to go to Disney in November. WITHOUT our kids...I know, its blasphemous! We're going for a half-marathon, and since we both want to run, we surely cannot afford to take someone with us to babysit our two boys. So, they will have to stay home. Did I mention the Wine Fest going on the same time we'll be there. So of course, not the best place for children, right?

So...since I will likely not be 'beach ready' in June--I was not one of those who dropped weight super-quick by breastfeeding, I couldn't really start losing til I stopped breastfeeding at 6 months unfortunately--I think I'll lean towards the Alaska trip. I can workout on the ship, right?

Happy 5 weeks!

2012-01-23T22:10:00.002-06:00

Weight: 11 lbs, 2 oz (via my American Red Cross Infant Scale)
Eats: Breastmilk only. During the day I put him to the breast and at night he gets expressed breastmilk via Nuk bottles. He takes between 4-6 oz.
Diapers: Size 1
Clothing size: 3 month
OTC: Bio-gaia probiotic infant drops. My at-home visit from the lactation consultants suggested this as she had a child with huge amounts of gas and the child's GI doc recommended it.
Rx: Finishing up our rx of 5 days worth of amoxicillin today!

Happy Birthday Elliot Samuel!

2012-01-21T22:12:00.001-06:00

My sister-in-law Lindsey had the newest edition to the family! On that side of our family there are now 5 grandsons 3 and under! Phew...like my father-in-law says...a deer lease is in their future!

He was a chunk too! 9 lbs, 1 oz...and no c-section! She did go past her dates and was able to go into labor on her own. He's now a citizen of Washington D.C. I think special privileges go with that...well, he can't vote for the U.S. President, right? Not sure if that's a priviledge...hmmm...

Houston Swim Club--Sugarland

2012-01-20T21:58:00.004-06:00

Asher's school crafts

2012-01-19T21:41:00.002-06:00

Happy 1 month Taj!

2012-01-19T21:37:00.001-06:00

Doug complete his first marathon!

2012-01-15T09:48:00.007-06:00

Doug worked so hard training for this, officially since last summer! He didn't join any running groups (like I likely would have...at least for those long 20+ mile runs once a week) but did rely on montly calendars provided by a renound triathlon & marathon trainer--who we found out last month is also a chiropractor. Too bad we didn't enlist in those services too... Our good friend Amaris made this photo for Doug, another pal of hers (who was also running her first) and her sister Cristina who was running her 7th Houston Marathon and her 15th total!

Doug in high spirits in the Heights. Our good friends Angie and Glenn lent their house that was just down the street as a meeting place for my family and I. And they served as great cheerleaders!
Ok Doug, time to keep going :)
Taken while driving (I was the passenger) on I-10 headed to the next place to see the runners.
Still in high spirits near the Kroger on Montrose right where the the turn around point was for those doing the half-marathon.
My pal Cristina (on the left), who as I wrote earlier was completing her 15th marathon!

Now here is where the runners thinned out. Only marathoners at this point. Check out the guy running in an argyle skirt above!
The guy with the clown wig was our lookout person at each stop. Once we saw him, we knew Doug was not too far behind. I learned this tip from my pal Amaris, who is the sister to Cristina. Amaris has been following her sister to cheer her on for all her Houston Marathons, so she was a great resource that day.

Seeing a man run at his age (above) reminds me that with proper training ANYONE can do this. No excuses! Here's my happy hubby!

Another lookout person. When I saw this Texans fan coming along, I knew Doug wasn't too far behind. There were A LOT of people in Texan's gear since we were playing in the playoffs later that day.

FIRST MARATHON COMPLETE!! A congratulatory kiss from Asher...smeared with Oreos. Can you tell he was being watched by his grandparents?! :PAnd a congrats from Taj as well!

Taj's room

2012-01-13T21:53:00.000-06:00

Just a few things changed from Asher's theme of Cat & the Hat. Mainly the bumper, comforter, fitted sheet, and some other decor items. The bath rug from Pottery Barn Kids is being used as a rug for his room, there are some scattered caterpillars throughout, he has a caterpillar tote bag, lunch box, and his guest book at my shower was a board book of The Very Hungry Caterpillar.

You can also see the 'baby sack' from the stork posted in front of our house sitting on top of the hutch.

Happy 2 weeks old!

2012-01-04T21:35:00.001-06:00

Newborn Session--2 weeks old

2012-01-02T00:25:00.000-06:00

Feel free to check them out here!

New Year's Eve 2012

2012-01-01T21:44:00.001-06:00

Taj Benjamin is here!

2011-12-28T14:25:00.004-06:00

Baby Taj Benjamin arrived on Monday, December 19th, 2011 at 4:37PM. Weight: 8 lbs 14 oz
Length: 21 1/4 inches

Is today our delivery date?

2011-12-19T08:31:00.004-06:00

I'm waiting here at home to call the L&D Charge Nurse again. I was told according to my "AM Induction Instructions" to call at 5AM if I had not heard from them yet.

Well she told me at that time they could not get me in first thing, so I should call back by 9AM if I have not heard from them...Gosh, its so close! But now this also means this induction could happen tomorrow...we'll see...I keep telling myself only God knows when this baby's true birthdate will be. (Picture taken at 39 weeks, 2 days.)

Fat Fingers while Prego!

2011-12-14T23:57:00.004-06:00

Boy am I glad Robbins Bros. relocated again back to Houston. I can finally get my ring cleaned! Haha. I made a trip there while I was going those last errands I could possibly manage being enormous.

Yes, climbed the stairs up and everything.

Yes, embarassed myself by barely being able to get off my engagement ring.

Yes, browsed around and even tried on the FIRST band I've ever seen that actually went with my engagement ring.

Yes, I'm showing you here despite my ring finger being so red it may burst.

Yes, that's me trying to fit it with my 'big girl' James Avery silver band that is worn when Felicia gets truly pregnant. I bought it when pregnant with Asher.Oh well, I was so happy to finally find something Simon G made to fit my ring! I love that it doesn't go flush around my ring covering up my diamonds. He mentioned sodering it on but I cannot imagine covering up my original engagement ring...namely because of the diamonds surrounding it. :)

Now...what anniversary should I ask for it on?...

Christmas Tree, Oh Christmas Tree...

2011-12-14T09:54:00.002-06:00

Doug has been awesome at accepting that we will always having a fresh tree each year. I grew up with them vs. a pre-lit tree you keep in your attic, so I'm happy that our boys can enjoy the fresh tree scent. (Of course I'm not judging those who have pre-lit trees...I do envy how early you're able to get your trees out and how clean they are! Plus with all the delicous Christmas candles out there, we can all have a fresh tree scent in our homes.) The boys do have a small pre-lit tree in their room. It now also serves as Asher's night light. We were able to get this one up pretty early, so we did have an early feeling of Christmas in the house.
Asher and I went to Hobby Lobby to find his ornaments. He chose most of them and I chose a few for 'the boys'.

Pics from Ryan & Stephanie's Wedding

2011-12-11T09:46:00.000-06:00

Yes I'm awful and took these from their facebook pages...I had to get something posted on here after all!

Wedding in NYC! Congrats Ryan & Stephanie!

2011-12-10T09:33:00.001-06:00

We survived Doug's trip to NYC to see his brother Ryan get married! I'm so glad Taj decided to cooperate...here is a collection of some pics I got from Doug's text messages.

Doug & big sister Lauren.
Doug at Rockefeller Center.

The groom-to-be!

Reception Hall in Dumbo.

Choosing a name for our boy: Taj Benjamin

2011-12-06T08:46:00.001-06:00

"Taj" was always a name Doug and I talked about before we even got pregnant. I don't think we ever seriously considered it while pregnant with Asher...why I'm not sure. Taj Burrow is an professional surfer from Australia born to American parents.

"Taj" means "Crown" in Sanskrit & Indian. Its pronounced like Taj Majal. (I imagine I'll be saying that like alot). Haha.

"Benjamin" is a name I've always liked, and it is coincidentally a son of Jacob and leader of the 12 tribes as well (Asher is a son of Jacob in the Bible and one of the leaders of the 12 tribes of Israel).

Other names we liked were: Owen (me), Diego (Doug), Corb Blake (after Doug's grandfather), James (me), & not too many others unfortunately. Doug's rationale: "its hard to choose something like Asher (such a winner) and pair it with a...blah...name". Yes, that makes sense to me.

If Taj does not appreciate his name as a professional during interviews, he could always make himself T. Benjamin on paper. That has a nice ring to it too!

We never had anything monogrammed for Asher before he was born because we told ourselves, "we want to meet him first". Well this time it was decided one evening that yes, we would in fact choose Taj, so I jumped on to Etsy, ordered him the grey cap you see below...then it just blew up from there. I guess having Christmas right around the corner added to the shopping frenzy.

Stocking to match the rest of ours...
First ornmanent...
And a nice hat to keep himself warm in at the hospital...(the first thing I ordered for him!)
Big brother needed something too... And some more shopping...(this is actually now on sale at Pottery Barn Kids for anyone else whose child is celebrating their first Christmas).
Super-cheap at Hobby Lobby!
And one more thing is being shipped here today I hope! A monogrammed stroller blanket with all things daddy loves: argyle & sock monkeys!

37+ weeks

2011-12-04T21:32:00.002-06:00

Well, its Sunday night and I have survived the weekend so far. I hear there is a full moon on Saturday, December 10th. Let's just hope if I do follow the stereotype I will be in labor long enough to get Doug home. He flies back home from NYC that Sunday night.

And now I wait...37 weeks

2011-12-02T11:56:00.004-06:00

I do not like to call-in and miss work. In my 4 years of high school I think I missed one day, and I never missed a day of work as a U.S. Marine. I sprained my ankle once before a PFT (Physical Fitness Test) and didn't run it, but I was dressed and out there in my crutches!

So now I think I've called-in officially twice during this pregnancy. Yuck...

I'm here at home, 37 weeks, with on and off crampiness I've been experiencing the past couple of nights. My stomach was very hard for much of last night but I think that was owed to the huge piece of salmon I ate plus a bowl of cereal...embarassing...yes...

I'm also suddenly realizing that Doug will be gone this coming Wed-Sun for his brother's wedding in NYC. I really want this baby BEFORE or AFTER he comes back. Yes, its selfish, but I want Doug here to enjoy him for a bit--or to not get a call from me letting him know I'm going to the hospital while he's so far away.

I said I didn't want to interrupt the trip--he's a groomsman afterall-- and I really don't want to pay the cost of changing his flight to back home.

I honestly didn't think I'd still be pregnant I guess. When I went in last week at 3-4 cm and effaced, I thought 'any day now'. Well this week I was a solid 4 cm...but you still sit that way for a while.

I worked yesterday and yes I had a very nice assignment but I still find it hard to just SIT. I'm due to return to work on Monday, then Thursday-Friday again.

My OB appt is on Wed, within the same hour Doug is leaving to NYC. I called hoping to get an appt with my OB today but instead spoke a long time to the WHNP regarding my concerns and how I was physically feeling. She said that yes, I can still go into labor at any time, and they will NOT induce me unless medically necessary before 39 weeks. She said if the baby is not here by the time Doug leaves I should really just take it easy and not do much to not progress labor along. Well, now my predicament is whether I push myself to do my regular things--and maybe more--in the meantime? Then what if the baby is not here by Wed and suddenly my activity does drive me into labor?!

Sheesh...not an easy situation. I've remained mostly calm throughout this because when I'm troubled with something I just put it in God's hands...and let His will be done. He knows when this baby's birthdate is. I need to just relax, keep doing things like normal and just pray for the best. Thanks for allowing me to vent...

In the meantime I will wrap Christmas presents :)

Oh please don't let me go into labor at work...35+ weeks

2011-11-23T21:48:00.002-06:00

35+ weeks...at my doctor's appt this week I found out I am 3-4 cm dilated and 70-80% effaced. She suggested I do not go out of town this weekend (as I was hoping to).

I do work the next two days, Turkey Day & Black Friday, so let's all hope I don't create a biohazard in a patient's room or at the nurse's station if I go into labor at work.

Oh boy...

I have been steadily measuring 2 1/2 weeks past my dates, so here's hoping this baby is actually the size developmentally of a 38 weeker.

Christmas Card 2011

2011-11-23T07:47:00.002-06:00

We went with Shutterfly this year. Merry Christmas!

Labor is progressing! 34+ weeks

2011-11-16T13:01:00.002-06:00

I went to my doctor's appt today with Dr. Shroeder. I'm offically 34 weeks and 5 days but still measuring 2 weeks ahead, so the belly of a 37 weeker. I'm sure my 'more than expected' weight gain could be a factor in that equation!

Baby has also started dilating. She estimated me at 2-3 cm! Whoo hoo! I know this doesn't mean I'll be laboring soon...I want this baby boy's lungs to mature more after all...but it's nice to see he's moving along as he should. Asher did this for weeks also before I was induced, so I do feel I still have some more time to go.

Plus, if anything, it's given my husband another 'kind kick in the pants reminder' he needs to finish painting Asher's new room! Or else I'm about to go Marine Drill instructor on him. haha.
I also finally invested in compression socks! Yes, a bit late as I started RN school over 4 years ago. Being on my feet (DID I MENTION PREGNANT) as a staff RN for 13+ hours is much different than being a nursing student.

Family Photos!

2011-11-11T12:29:00.008-06:00

New rooms for 'the boys'

2011-11-09T13:38:00.006-06:00

New baby boy #2 will be moving into Asher's room. I think the stripes that are there already will fit nicely with the caterpillr theme. Now instead of it being a Dr. Seuss room, it'll be a storybook room. Asher will be moving to our spare bedroom, which already had 2 twin beds in it. We've chosen the sheets the boys will have! They were sold out online, but we were able to go to the store yesterday, grab one of the last vintage airplane sets there, then ordered a set at The Woodlands store to be mailed to us. Thank goodness because if they were sold out, we were scrambing to find a new idea for them that was similar, yet different.

Here is Asher's set: And baby boy #2 when he's old enough:

Here is an idea of some of the other contenders if we were not able to find our vintage train & airplane set at Pottery Barn. They're from Restoration Hardware and BOY was there a price difference!

Here's one we liked from Land of Nod:

32+ weeks!

2011-10-30T20:04:00.003-05:00

I did the Monster Mash Fun Run (2 mile Zombie Walk) while Doug did the 15K. I pushed Asher and boy was it draining! I'm still waddling around at work. Everyone asks me "how long do you plan to work?" Well, I'd like to say as long as this baby will allow so I can take full advantage of the 12 weeks I get for FMLA. We'll see what 'baby #2 think'. Of course I have some swelling in my feet after my shift, but so would teachers, and anyone else whose job demands they're on their feet most their day.

On my 4 days off, I try to do at least one spinning class--since the absolute last place I will be is on a bike after delivery-- have one "Asher and Mommy day" as we've always had, then rest as much as possible. 'Rest'= a full day of housecleaning and still trying to get our spare bedroom cleared out so we can move Asher into it.

Fun with work friends!

2011-10-29T20:07:00.001-05:00

Here are some of my co-workers and I at a Halloween Party. Can you believe 3 of the chicas in this photo are pregnant?! Fortunately only 2 of us will be on Maternity Leave when I'm out. One will start in November and I start in December. One of these girls will start in March and the other in May!

We're an example of something!

2011-10-29T20:02:00.000-05:00

Our photographer is starting to add holiday cards to the services she offeres. I saw on her facebook site she chose us as one of the examples!

Family Photos: DONE

2011-10-23T22:08:00.004-05:00

Yes, we finished them today! After scheduling these in July, we were still up late in the Galleria last night getting some last minute things for my boys--namely DOUG! Ha. I had Asher's stuff ordered, shipped here, and washed way before this weekend. Needless to say, Daddy and Mommy did get haircuts (mommy got her hair did as usual for these events...since she is clueless on how to use a blowdryer & straightener), mani/pedi, facial a couple weeks ago, and make-up done today at MAC (my first time using them).

We used our 'regulars', DW Photoz/DW Little Bitty Photography. We met up in the Hermann Park & Japanese Garden area. It was swarming with mosquitos! Disgusting. We eventually made it to downtown, but by then it was getting dark...thanks to the scattered showers that came down on us by the end of the night. Either way, I was very happy I could still fit into my wedding/engagement ring & heels.

Note: I feel very spoiled. I was just having some unwind time and saw our photographer put a preview up of one of Asher's photos! I'm so happy already :)

Did that count as my Babymoon?

2011-10-10T20:00:00.000-05:00

My trip to NYC this past weekend is what I'm referring to...hmmm...

Happy 5th Birthday Brandon!

2011-10-09T22:14:00.002-05:00

Asher's new swim class

2011-10-04T18:55:00.003-05:00

Asher moved up at the Houston Swim Club. Today was our first day mommy was no longer in class with him...a little bittersweet as we did 2 semesters of classes together at The Little Gym and over 2 months now in swim class.

I was thinking Asher would be at his absolute WORST as he fell asleep for his nap just 5 minutes away from us getting there (it was a 1:3oP start time vs. our usual 9:30A or 10:30A) so he started out crying before we walked in...so I still handed him over and he just cried for another 30 seconds. He did awesome! Maybe I was the one distracting him all along. Ha!

Note: Jeez, sorry for the poor video quality. I was using my ipad2...thinking, "I'll bring the big daddy Nikon the next time". Definitely will be now! Anyway, Asher is the one floating in the water with the teacher.

27 weeks & start of 3rd trimester!

2011-09-23T09:59:00.001-05:00

Labor Day in Washington D.C.

2011-09-05T20:31:00.010-05:00

We were within walking distance to the subway from where we were staying. I took this photo in front of a house we passed on the way there. I don't know why I was drawn to the flowers. Maybe it reminds me of Speck from Horton Hears a Who?
We spent a lot of time in this Postal Office due to some rain we got that day. There was a clock museum at the top we were able to go to and we were in still able to see quite a view from up there.

U.S. Capitol
Our growing family in front of the First Family's home. 24 weeks pregnant!
The Bird Family in front of the White House.

The boys being silly.

I remember seeing this protester as a senior in high school! And I know she was there when I was there was an 8th grader too.

The boys chasing after some ducks in front of the White House.

Wearing Daddy out!
D.C. is quite the diverse city!

Prepping for Labor Day at the park...

2011-09-05T09:14:00.001-05:00

My sister-in-law Lindsey is pregnant here also with her second boy!

The National Zoo

2011-09-04T21:24:00.016-05:00

How awesome is it to walk to the National Zoo from your house?! Thank goodness for those daddy's though. Lindsey and I being the pregos were able to enjoy the walk while they pushed our toddlers along.
And here we are!

Those boys were always looking for the best view!

Getting sprayed to cool off.

Uncle Steve & Henry checking out...

an elephant below!

Let's check out what the Bird's are seeing...

Henry...ever the ham for the camera. :)

Checking out some fun stuff again.

Spent A LOT of time in the ape house.

I couldn't believe how close you could get!

Thanks for keeping an eye on things Uncle Steve!

Such a cute baby gorilla.

Satisfied zoo visitor!

Our arrival to D.C.

2011-09-03T21:42:00.006-05:00

We rode in the Acela Express from NYC to D.C. It was a very comfy ride (with free wi-fi). I pulled these 2 pics from their website, till I can upload some from Doug's phone he took.

Check out all the room!
We were very fortunate to stay in the city limits of D.C. while we stayed with my sister-in-law Lindsey, brother-in-law Steve, and nephew Henry. He and Asher are only 6 months apart! I wonder if they'll both fit...
Ok, they got that squared-away pretty fast.

"I gotta get me one of these!"

A table set just for them!

Central Park & Yankee Stadium

2011-09-02T21:57:00.003-05:00

One day shy of 23 weeks

2011-08-25T13:02:00.001-05:00

Yes, I'm HUGE!

While my husband runs...

2011-08-20T08:24:00.010-05:00

Asher and I are here at home while Doug runs 12 miles as per his 'personalized, super-duper, HR focused' marathon training plan. While we did our first triathlon in April, and he decided that was his sport, he decided to get that pesky "Run a Marathon" off his bucket list before he went full-fledged as a member of USAT (USA Triathlon).
Funny how I wanted a fancy GPS watch just last year I think, and this spoiled brat got just that!

Anywho, we realized last year--when we both signed up for the Marathon-- that it can only work (having small children) if only one person trains at a time. Asher lasts up to 6 miles in the BOB Ironman Jogging stroller we have, but I cannot imagine taking him out in this weather we've been having with the high mileage that's necessary.

So what do I get to do? Well, since I consider being at work 12-14 hours a day, three times a week as most of my exercise, occasional spinning classes & weight lifting at the gym, swimming class with Asher, PLUS just trying to be as active of a mom as possible for him (did I mention he can only sit still long enough for a 30 minute episode of the Mickey Mouse Clubhouse?) Yes, my son will turn off the TV so he can go play with his "cars", "animals", wheelbarreling off furniture, or to color.
Long story short, I've been trying to do Christmas shopping! If I carry 40 weeks with this baby, he's due December 23rd. Now yes, I did deliver Asher at 39 weeks on the dot, I keep telling myself I have a new doctor, will deliver at a new hospital, etc. so if things change, all I can do is see what happens when that time comes.

So with Baby Boy #2 nearly being a Christmas baby, this means I will not want to be doing last minute shopping trips being huge and edematous!What's my friend now?

While I despise shipping fees, once you purchase of their site, the remainder of the day you get free shipping!
I've also booked his the new baby's newborn session with our favorite photographers, DW Photoz! Danny's wife branched out and now offers their more maternity, baby, children-focused DW Itty Bitty.
I think it'll be fun to use some fun Christmas props for this little guy.

New York in October? Why yes, thank you!

2011-08-18T11:40:00.004-05:00

My brother-in-law Ryan and his fiance Stephanie will be getting married on December 10th of this year in NYC. As Doug is a groomsman I have no problems with him going...I'm just bummed I can't go! Doug is already disappointed Asher cannot go with him, but with all the responsibilites of a groomsman: bachelor party mainly--haha!--its maybe not the best place for him to be wrangling a 2 1/2 year old.

Fortunately Stephanie is having a bridal shower in October and I have a plane ticket to go! My mother-in-law and I will be going together to sample some of the food choices that are still in the process of being decided on. How fun to get to spend some girl time with my new sister-in-law!

You gotta love what the wedding website says about my husband:

Doug Fagala - Groomsman
Watch out for this guy at the wedding. He'll definitely try to high-five you at least once. Doug is Ryan's step-brother and a dear friend. They've been family for over 20 years now and continue to grow together. He's married to Felicia Fagala and they have a son named Asher and another baby boy on the way!

21 weeks pregnant

2011-08-16T22:25:00.007-05:00

And what do I really need this time? We're having another boy, so many things are covered right there: clothes, pee pee tee pee (haha!), blue, blue and blue stuff-- done.
What do I want this time around? 3 things:
1. B.O.B. Duallie Jogging Stroller

2. A video + movement monitor

3. Snuza Halo

Birthdays at the beach house

2011-08-07T20:33:00.001-05:00

My parents built their beach house when I was in high school, and never have I gone there just as a 'walk on' on the ferry. We always check the wait time before we go and either go early or just avoid it all and go 'the back way' via Anahuac. This time, Doug came up with this bright idea. Here is Asher waiting with his Thomas the Train toy bag.
Slick guy in his glasses.
I tried to capture the ferry boat crossing us via the window.

I can recall years going to Seawolf Park. They had the best real-fruit popsicles! Plus the fishing and fun in the old tanks. Great gift very appropriate for my family.

Birthday boy (my dad) and his two grandsons who are very much entertained with their cars instead of the cake in front of them.

Enjoying a delicious, juicy peach.

Asher supervising the catch of a hardhead off my parents boat.

Nice view from above on the porch of the beach house. My parents neighborhood was so lucky their homes were still standing after Ike.

You can see a fish getting caught! I later found a fishing lure in Asher's shorts when I was doing his laundry.

I think this neighbor did this revamping of the railing after Ike and I thought it looked interesting.

On the way home we ate at a great Greek Seafood restaurand, Olympia. Delicious!

It's been a while...but we're having

2011-08-04T16:35:00.006-05:00

a little boy. We found out at 18 weeks along during my 'long ultrasound'. I had a 19 week check-up this week and all looks well. Finally got to meet my doctor, although I love the NP!

I've noticed this pregnancy I did not feel the baby as soon as with Asher. I was told at my 'long US' that its due to where my placenta is attached. Its very anterior, so there are a lot of blood vessels and tissues in the way. This week though (actually today of all days, just one day shy of 20 weeks) I feel the baby alot more. Phew...

Circus in July

2011-07-13T22:05:00.000-05:00

Labor Day: DC or NYC?

2011-06-27T14:53:00.003-05:00

How about both? My twin-in-laws live in each city. My brother-in-law is busy planning his surely awesome wedding there in NYC this December, and my sister-in-law and family have Asher's only-7-month-younger-cousin Henry living RIGHT next to the National Zoo.

The biggest decision we need to make is to fly to NYC first or DC...

Hmmm...

13 week check-up

2011-06-22T14:57:00.001-05:00

Baby looked good via doppler with a HR of 161 and at my genetic screen--with the more thorough ultrasound--it was 155 . I've spent the last 2 weeks now visiting my new OB's practice. I'll be delivering at a whole new hospital too! I decided I wanted this delivery completely free thanks to the VA, so I'll be at The Women's Hospital of Texas.

I'm missing out on being so close from where I delivered Asher--my L&D floor was only 4 floors away! But I'm excited to check out and get my own experience from a different place.

Romeo's Graduation from the Naval Academy!

2011-06-04T09:00:00.003-05:00

Team Blake 5K

2011-06-04T08:50:00.008-05:00

My birthday!

2011-06-01T16:14:00.000-05:00

Brandon's Graduation from St. Ambrose

2011-05-25T11:10:00.001-05:00

I guess we'll join the group...

2011-05-17T11:06:00.000-05:00

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-08T10:31:00.001-05:00

Happy 2nd birthday sweet Mia

2011-04-30T20:47:00.003-05:00

Mia is one of the most beautitful little girls you've ever seen. She and Asher are less than 2 weeks apart. Here are some photos of her party at The Little Gym. Asher had 2 great parties 2 weekends in a row there! Beautiful Olivia cake & cupcakes. YUM!
My brave boy!
Asher made a friend and was all about showing off. Too bad his friend is an LSU fan. I kid, I kid...haha.

Why do so many of them love the donut? And especially when they break it into two! It's a perfect lounger as Asher is here demonstrating.

It was really neat to see how Asher at less than 2 years old can do this 'stunt' while at his party kids much older than him were hesitant to even swing on the high bar. Go Little Gym for instilling confidence!

Asher's 2nd Year photos

2011-04-29T10:35:00.001-05:00

2nd Birthday Party= Success!

2011-04-23T09:31:00.001-05:00

Cookies and Cream cake...DELISH!
Mommy & the birthday boy.

Here comes the chaos...
Quick! Get the picture NOW!

2011 Easter Card

2011-04-20T20:42:00.002-05:00

Getting ready for a party...

2011-04-20T20:27:00.007-05:00

This year we opted to keep things simple with Asher's birthday. We've been going to The Little Gym-Bellaire for 2 semesters now, and they offer parties for members and non-members. We figured we 'd take advantage of the 'member discount'. Plus they take care of everything. All we need to bring is the birthday boy and cake! What's especially nice though is that even though Asher's actual birthday isn't till the 29th, we arranged this so I'd be off the ENTIRE WEEKEND of Easter. Whoo hoo! I missed last year's with my boys so I'm especially happy to have some time with them. As an added bonus I'm off for Mother's Day too!

Early Easter Party Time!

2011-04-10T10:32:00.002-05:00

Asher and Daddy enjoyed a fun party in Cypress that's prepping him for the rest of the month's Easter Egg Hunts!

Popsy and Avery, Asher, & Evan. All we're missing is Henry, but it was long for him to travel for the party from D.C. Asher running to find EGGS!!! Great picture of my husband :)

My pictures are a little backwards, but here is Daddy hiding some eggs.

My happy 23 month old!

Triathlon: Complete

2011-04-02T22:02:00.004-05:00

Well, we did it! We both finished under 2 hours. I was completely oblivious to how much time a sprint tri should take. I know I really had difficulty in the swim. I just got into the pool this past Wednesday, so I know in the future I'll prepare more for this portion. Regardless, I did make up for it in the run. I finished 6th overall for my age group when the running race times were released! Here's the transition area we ran to to start the bike portion. Finally! A pic of me running...thanks to my in-laws who were there. Asher was able to see mommy and daddy race with them there. My brother/sister in-law showed up too. It's always nice to have family support.

We did it! Below is a pic of my co-worker Michelle and I. It was so nice do do this with a friend close by...even though she kicked my butt in the swim. Posing as the #1 finisher... Asher is ready for us to sign us up for his first race! Haha. The youngest we saw participating was 9 years old. So if Asher is interested, we can all do it together one day...no pressure, right?

Our first triathlon is Saturday!

2011-03-29T14:56:00.003-05:00

It's this weekend in Kemah. I just came back from running with Asher at Memorial Park and hitting up Tri on the Run since it was in the area. Doug and I are set with our tops and bottoms we'll be wearing. (We both opted to not wear a one piece). Now we just need to make sure we'll be keeping the tires on our bikes--we both have 29'ers with mountain tires currently.

Missing my husband

2011-03-21T22:49:00.005-05:00

I'm a very independent person...so I cannot believe how quickly I missed Doug when he left on his little surf vaca (by that night)...

I'll ve very happy to pick him up tomorrow from the airport!

Here are some pics of us from this company party this past year at The Grove. Great restaurant! I'd never been there before.

Sniff sniff...and you can see my long hair.

Doesn't Doug look SO YOUNG in the below photo?

One of the few times I'd go to get my 'hair did' was for Doug's Holiday Awards banquet. I also look forward to purchasing a dress each year for it! 4 of 5 years I've got them from White House Black Market. You cannot go wrong with a dress from them! I was brave and got a white one this year.

Oh yeah, I chopped off all my hair!

2011-03-21T21:29:00.002-05:00

One more rodeo trip for Asher and I

2011-03-17T20:00:00.005-05:00

When Doug, Asher, and I went to the rodeo on opening night we had one of those 'saver coupon' booklets for $20. Last year Doug and I got the $50 but wound up handing over the leftovers to people as we were leaving. Once we nearly burned through our $20 this year with Asher on 2 rides, I knew we'd need more. I bought another $50 one thinking we'd get another chance to go as a family.

Unfortunately things got backed up this week with Doug prepping for his trip and trying to finish up some things at work. My dad and Brandon wound up going with Asher and I today. Boy, the sun was OUT and my babies cheeks got pink! I'll get more pics of that, but enjoy these in the meantime...

Note: Can I just say on a majority of rides today the carnies were just charging us for 'one' instead of 2 (since an adult would be riding). Maybe because it wasn't opening night and the rodeo is shutting down on Sunday. Either way I'll remember this next year to save some more dough!
Awww...the Astrodome in the background...
All of a sudden Asher wants to wear sunglasses. I guess the infant/toddler ones I got him last year are not cool enough. Ray-Ban only for this little guy...sorry to disappoint you Asher, but we'll stick to plastic only for you little man for the time being.

My husband left to Mexico today :(

2011-03-17T19:42:00.005-05:00

Doug is taking a much deserved surf trip with some pals of ours, Ryan & George. They flew into Ixtapa/Zihuatanejo, Mexico and are ultimately going to be in Saladitas. Funny note that Doug shared with me: Zihuantanejo is where Tim Robbins ran off to in Shawshank Redemption.

Here is a map of the area he'll be in. VERY south of the border, so hopefully away from all the riff-raff happenings near the border and in Mexico City.
I found this photo online. Our pals he's with have been there before and have been surfing internationally as Doug has, so if it had their stamp of a approval Doug was in!

One more photo I got online of Saladitas. I'm told its very rural. No hoity toity American-style resorts!
Can you believe this will be the longest we've ever been away from each other (nearly 6 days...a Thursday-Tuesday trip)!? I think the longest was on a few business trips years ago to California and during a long fishing trip he took with his dad to Louisiana last year.

Needless to say I'm working Friday-Sunday, so hopefully the time for me goes by fast.

My brother-in-law...the genius

2011-03-16T13:17:00.004-05:00

My brother-in-law Ryan is a pretty rad, INCREDIBLY talented, and funny dude. He lives in NYC as his own boss creating some awesome websites for companies and individuals. Here's a project we commissioned him with--- merging a new photo of Asher with an old one of his daddy! As usual, awesome job Ry-guy!

I did something really bad...

2011-03-14T12:58:00.003-05:00

Yes we already own a good laptop. I purchased my superlight Toshiba when I started nursing school in 2007. But Doug convinces me "it's outdated", and "I can get my own, install my work program, and do more of my business at home". Okay, fine with me. Anything to get you out of that office and home earlier.

I find out his already purchased a Toshiba while I was AT WORK. Bummer. I like to be around for these purchases. But as my husband rarely purchases anything for himself this was alright...

Til the next week he decides to buy a super-fly bicycle for our first triathlon coming up April 2nd in Kemah...umm...excuse me, what happened to my frugal husband? Oh yeah, he was never frugal. I AM the frugal one who shops alot, while he is the one who rarely shops but when he does, he does it right. I guess I can do is casually laugh like it doesn't bother me...ha.

He's been rubbing it in quite a bit that he has an e-reader (his Nook from Valentine's Day) and I don't...here comes the part where I get something nice for myself...

HELLO E-READER...that happends to be an Ipad2...I can't wait for this baby to get to me in the beginning of April.

Asher's FOURTH haircut

2011-03-08T15:38:00.002-06:00

This time we tried Snip Its in Sugarland.

Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo

2011-03-01T22:51:00.017-06:00

Today was opening night at the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo AND Asher's first official visit too! Here is the first ride Asher and Daddy chose. Asher enjoyed the slide so much Doug is ready to put him on the much larger one next time. I figured it'd safer to start first on the smaller one...
Here is Asher and I on the one I chose.
Daddy & Asher checking out the "We Fry Anything" booth.
My silly boys...

We bought some feed for the animals, and boy we were popular! Asher is practically squished here with goats trying to get a snack.

Petting some pot-belly pigs. VERY cute till they get HUGE. I didn't get a pic of the large one...

Who taught him how to do this?!

Asher loves him some pony rides!

Daddy teaching Asher early to "Saw 'em off".

Asher holds a great respect for chickens. Ha.

Petting some bunnies. Asher noticed they ate the same thing--carrots & cereal!

Mutton busting...one of the newest events and my faves.

Welcome Clay Walker!

My son....the skateboarder

2011-02-20T15:52:00.002-06:00

Per my husband, Asher did this completely ON HIS OWN!!

Valentine's for us

2011-02-14T22:15:00.001-06:00

Daddy got his present a few weeks early. I ordered the Nook Color for him off the Barnes & Noble website, then get an email it wouldn't ship til the 15th! I quickly found one of the few Nooks in Houston THAT night...but this time I was so excited I took Doug with me. Asher has figured out how to shop for cards! Albeit spanish cards...did I mention he could write his name? Ha.
My parents and I still exchange gifts. My dad drove all the way to my house to bring this to me. A very beautiful "Mommy" bracelet.
And some lovely shoes from my hubby...
Here is my mug from Asher. So cute. I LOVE Peanuts!!

Asher's Valentine Party!

2011-02-14T15:27:00.005-06:00

"Yes! My first Valentine!" "Hold on...my mommy is watching me...play it cool..."
Thinking: "Smile! Just hurry up and smile!" "Ok, finally some private time. Phew...let's see who this is from!"

"Everything is cool mommy! No worries...this is not from a girl..."

Welcome Baby Rylan Hunter Croan!

2011-02-12T09:59:00.005-06:00

My sister-in-law Ashley & bro-in-law Hunter welcomed our perfectly sweet nephew this weekend! Born on February 12th, baby boy Rylan was 7 lbs, 20 inches. They live in Seguin but the delivery was in New Braunfels so we need to plan a trip soon to see him.

http://croans.blogspot.com/

p.s. I got the text at work and despite the craziness of the day I was already having, I was so happy to hear Ashley experienced a healthy delivery.

Pinot's Palette for Date Night

2011-02-09T14:46:00.001-06:00

I started the weekend program at work, choosing to work any 3 days between Friday-Monday. There are great financial benefits, and knowing my schedule at all times is also helpful. Doug and I purposely have at least one date night per week. Doug works Monday-Friday, office hours (REALLY long ones) so its a way we get some 'us' time.

Here's one of our fun activities chosen this week!

I'm going to take a chance...

2011-02-08T14:43:00.001-06:00

These are photos of Asher working on his daddy's Valentine Gift. I'll leave at that. Won't say where, or what it was...now let's see if Doug reads my blog...

More Valentine Pics

2011-02-08T09:26:00.006-06:00

Asher was officially 21 months the day these were shot... "See you"
My little Zoolander.
Throwing the nice props with daddy...
Now agreeing to pose on the props...

My Little Love!

Asher's Valentine Shoot Preview...21 Months Old!

2011-01-29T21:34:00.001-06:00

Obstacle Course Day at Westbury Baptist Day School

2011-01-28T22:32:00.003-06:00

Trying on Daddy's Old Clothes

2011-01-28T11:08:00.004-06:00

The photo that started it all...

I cannot interrupt Asher as he's shopping...

My sister-in-law Ashley's Baby Shower

2011-01-15T21:48:00.002-06:00

We'll be welcoming baby boy Rylan any week now! My sister-in-law Ashley has taken such great care of herself while pregnant (no surprise) so we can only pray now for a healthy delivery for the next boy to the grandson brood!
Ashley posing with the Little Man tie shirt we got for Rylan.
2 Aggies parents = one Aggie baby I swear Grandma Grawford is the Baby Whisperer.

The one thing that stinks is that Ashely & Hunter live in Seguin, so either Asher and I will make the trip up there to see them during the week or Doug & Asher will go over a weekend minus Tia Felicia :(

Surfing in January

2010-12-31T23:08:00.001-06:00

We took advantage of New Year's Eve by heading down to Galveston so Doug could catch some waves. It was very foggy & pretty chilly. Thank goodness for Murdoch's being open and so close. I was able to distract Asher there, by building sandcastles, & by going up and down steps to the Seawall. Pretty disgusting the amount of manowar on the shore! We had to be very careful.
Asher's 'post-eating sand' face.
My little man underneath the historical Galveston landmark.

We found daddy!

Asher & Daddy at The Little Gym

2010-12-31T21:36:00.002-06:00

I normally take Asher during the week to his Little Gym-Bellaire classes, but its always nice to reschedule to a weekend so Doug can take him too. He finished up 20 weeks in the 'Birdie' class. Check out that balance!

Tuck that head Asher!Nice somersault! I'll update more with pics from his new 'Beasts' class.

Annual Holiday trip to San Antonio

2010-12-28T22:39:00.004-06:00

Our family tradition is to go to San Antonio on Christmas Day to eventually celebrate my mom's birthday on the 28th. Things have been adjusted obviously now that there are little ones in the picture & my work schedule that doesn't acknowledge 'holidays' like other professions.

We stay at the same place every year, the historic Menger Hotel.

Our First Christmas! (Just the 3 of us)

2010-12-25T23:22:00.006-06:00

I say your 'first' because last Christmas I worked. Today Asher really enjoyed all the lights, food, and ripping up of paper! Doug showing off his new house shoes Santa crossed off his list. Asher & Mommy opening up some gifts.
Santa brought me my own Chevron car too!
Daddy's limited edition Texas A&M Chevron car.

Christmas at the Fagala's

2010-12-23T23:38:00.004-06:00

What a great Christmas in Beach City! (Asher's Aunt) Lindsey, (Uncle) Steve, and (Cousin) Henry were in England this year, & (Asher's great-grandmother) Nani was in Dallas but very dearly missed. (Asher's Uncle) Ryan was able to come from Brooklyn. We played the Fagala's traditional 'Game' where you choose numbers, select a gift, and hope it doesn't get stolen! Asher and Uncle Ryan talking about the infamous apples...
Popsi and his gifts from us. Ready to catch some fish!
Asher & Mommy. Uncle Ryan actually designed the shirt Asher is wearing. I'll have to post a better shot of it.
Asher & Daddy burning off some calories on the property...

Nonna & her gift from us. A lovely place to put all her Christmas cards!

Asher's 3rd Haircut

2010-12-20T23:34:00.002-06:00

Really just a trim...

I must say I was disappointed to have an appt and he was not able to sit in those cool little cars. Our schedule didn't have time to let us wait for one, so Asher was a big boy in a larger chair. I cannot believe this is his 3rd haircut already. The lady even convinced me he needed some special 'salon only' shampoo that includes a little conditioner since his hair "is a little dry". Now he smells like a blueberry after bathtime. Ha!

Asher with Santa

2010-12-20T23:30:00.002-06:00

My poor baby's first trip to see Santa. The 'big guy' did visit him at school and I was told Asher was NOT a fan...

Signing the "I've been good list".

We have hardwood floors!

2010-12-19T22:57:00.001-06:00

We got hardwood floors installed! After beigng homeowners for 2 years we never really have started much decorating due to the fact we knew we still wanted to paint, get new floors, etc. We're finally making these steps! These are mostly prep photos, and the only photo of the actual wood is this tiny one you'll see below. Everything went outside...including our new pup Joule. Fortunately we didn't get any rain and the weather wasn't cold.
My dad came to help me supervise :) The plan to get the floors happened so fast (we wanted them in prior to the family Christmas celebration at our house) the Christmas tree got the boot outside too!

And another card...Etsy design

2010-12-13T18:28:00.000-06:00

One Holiday Card...Tiny Print design

2010-12-12T18:25:00.001-06:00

Decorating the Tree!

2010-12-06T23:16:00.000-06:00

Holiday photos!

2010-12-05T22:30:00.003-06:00

Lovin' Etsy...

2010-11-16T20:45:00.002-06:00

I finally tried out getting Etsy.com to create a unique card for us. I'm usually a sucker for shutterfly.com, but somehow paying just $15 to etsy and printing on my superfly printer I have just sitting here seemed to make more sense...

Here is our Fall card. Enjoy!

Doug's captions for Asher's Fall photos

2010-10-21T09:25:00.004-05:00

So I'm the one who usually posts on here, ok I always post. Well Doug posted these pics we just got on facebook with some pretty funny captions. Enjoy them below! I'm not sure if anyone watches World's Strongest Man competitions, but this reminds me of the boulder event...I'm just saying.
Tomato with Asher's head consumed, the tomato now controls Asher's every move...which includes eating all of Asher's candy.
Veggie Tales tomato eating Asher's head.
"What? I'm not crying. My eyes are just sweating."
Domo arigato Mr. Roboto...
Heartbreaker.

Our first family zoo trip!

2010-10-17T23:13:00.006-05:00

We are official zoo members! Can you believe it was our first trip together as a family? Asher had already been months ago with his Tia Linda & Cousin Brandon. It was really nice to go on a beautiful Sunday--did I mention I was on-call and didn't have to go into work! Asher and I with the new baby elephant.
This meercat was just chillin'...this is a meercat, right?
Asher and Daddy about to jump in the pond...haha.
I decided to take a ride in the wagon and have my Ash push me...
Finally, picture of Asher and Mommy! Thanks to my husband Doug.

Here is Asher when we first got there kicked back in his wagon. We only had one hour to enjoy Zoo Boo, so we rushed to throw him in this costume and check things out. Next time we'll get there sooner--and hopefully by then it'll be a little cooler!

Asher warming up with some petting zoo animals.

Hibachi Grill in Bellaire

2010-10-17T22:36:00.007-05:00

We found a really neat place in Bellaire not too far from our house. EXCELLENT service, reasonable prices, and great food! They were nice enough to ask if we minded the big fire display considering we did have Asher with us...

He did pretty well! Just this look of shock in his face. No tears shed.

It's The Great Pumpkin!

2010-10-04T23:17:00.003-05:00

I had to keep this one since he was saying "CHEESE".

Asher's First Sailing Trip

2010-10-01T20:34:00.000-05:00

Training for our 1st Marathon

2010-09-23T11:07:00.007-05:00

Is so much easier with...
Newton running shoes! I was a New Balance girl since high school. I even tried Asics once while in the Marines. I really liked Nike Pegasus in the past couple years but during the 1/2 Marathon this year I was introduced to Newtons. They're amazing. If you don't have good form, they force you to. My husband experienced this and he feels its really helped him...I didn't notice since I already had rockin' form. :P
We gave our super-heavy Jeep jogging stroller the boot and upgraded to this awesome piece of aluminium...the one-of-a-kind BOB Ironman Jogging Stroller. Love, LOVE, love it. Especially when Asher and I are passing people at Memorial Park on it. Watch out people! :)

In all seriousness we're very happy we can take Asher out with us (he can last a happy 4 miles) and give him a good example of healthy living early on. He still does not watch TV and he's super active at Westbury Baptist School and The Little Gym.

Doug is dying to put him up on a surfboard already. He figures he can push him into a little whitewater soon. Asher will certainly have his choice in surfboards when he's really ready too...our 9 or so custom-built surfboards are now home decor and playtoys.

Linda's Texans Party

2010-09-19T21:50:00.003-05:00

My sister and uncle moved into one of my dad's rental properties and had a really nice Texans Game Watch Party/Housewarming on Sunday. What an awesome game vs. the Redskins, right? Here is my sweet Tia Edna and her daughter Ivanna "La Cubana".
My cousin Amanda was so sweet with Asher. She's in her last year of nursing school! Whoo hoo for all the nurses in the family. I'm trying to convince her to get into Pediatrics. Ha. Check out how big 4 yr old Jordan has gotten. My sister Linda & Erica a.k.a. 'Sori'.
Three out of the five members of the Carbajal Clan.
Roomies!