Pretty Cool Are the Jedi

Recently, my two (and a half) year old has become fascinated with a galaxy far, far away. He has a set of really cute Star Wars characters that he got a while ago. We tried explaining who they were when he got them, but he would just passively play with them from time to time. Well, in the past couple of days, he's become a fanatic. He calls them all his "Storm Troopers". He now knows the name of each, takes them everywhere with him, and has watched two full Star Wars "episodes" (which he also calls "Storm Troopers"). And if he's watching it, so is Mommy.

At first, {eh} it was alright. I paid quasi-attention to it while doing something else, playing on my phone, wrapping gifts, etc. But at some point in the week, I have been sucked in. I even found myself shushing Aiden and Jamie last night while watching Return of the Jedi. Who knew? I have googled more characters and questions than I even knew existed in the movies. And, on more than one occasion, have had to explain something to Jamie. For example, the tragedy of Anakin's transition from "The Chosen One" to "Darth Vader" and why his ghost was young instead of old. Aiden even knows that Darth Vader is a bad guy, but still good on the inside. ha.


Yes, I realize this makes me a weird person, but I like to think of it as simultaneously making me a cool mom. Even though I believe the term COOL MOM is an oxymoron. But still.

So I'd be lying if I said I wasn't excited about the possibility of Aiden opening some Star Wars toys this Christmas. Or if I said I haven't searched On Demand and DVR for the other movies I have yet to see. Or if I told you I don't do all of the voices and sound effects (even when not prompted). And if I denied secretly wishing I had Jedi powers. Because Star Wars is cool, okay?

May the force be with you.

28 Weeks

How far along: 28 weeks

Total weight gain: Um. 30 pounds. I blame Thanksgiving.


Maternity clothes: Maternity clothes? Psssh. Try husband’s clothes. As soon as I’m home, it’s t-shirt and basketball shorts or sweat pants. As far as going out in public, I do that as seldom as possible. But my go-to is always my jeggings or my black dress pants from Target or Old navy. For tops, if it’s big/draped/long, I wear it. But like I said…when I’m home, all deals are off. Poor Jamie. He never sees me dressed up anymore.

Sleep: Between the burping and her kicking, not getting a lot of shuteye lately. I am still operating throughout the day though even with the lack of sleep. I like to think that the waking up every two hours thing is nature’s way of training me for those first few weeks.

Cravings: It really is still just milk. I love me a good glass of milk! I will say that lately, I have been wanting breakfast burritos. I had some last weekend at Dad and Rhonda’s, and they’re all I can think about since. I want to curl up inside one and live.

Best moment for these weeks: Seeing Aiden react to feeling Anna Scott’s kicks. His face just beams! The first time he saw my belly move, he said, “Anna Scott! You comin’ out?!” which consequently made Mommy’s face beam too.

Movement: WOW. This girl is active. I have been feeling movement since around weeks 16-17. Since then it’s gotten more frequent and more intense. I joke with Jamie and say that she has a pole in there. Girl’s got moves. Let’s just hope she’ll be a soccer player, not a dancer. Please, Jesus.

Labor Signs: no, gladly!

Belly button in or out: Finally committed to an outie—How do you spell that? It grosses my aunt and brother out. And I catch my kids staring at it while I teach, but I think it’s totally hot. Not.

What I miss: lying on my back without losing my breath and feeling the urge to cough, sleeping on my stomach, not burping and having heartburn all day, and definitely shopping for new outfits! Although it’s done wonders for our budget.

Milestones: Aiden feeling the kicks.

Favorite moments: When I have a stressful moment at work, and I feel her moving. It’s a nice little reminder that I have my baby girl with me.

Dear Santa

Seeing as how all of my recent posts have a common inspiration (my favorite time of the year), I thought I’d stick with my theme. I will argue that the best part of Christmas is the time spent with family (away from work worries) and all of the traditions. But, I have to be honest. I get mighty excited about the gifts, given and received. It’s that materialistic side of me, I know. But at least I’m aware. I mean, come on…Who doesn’t get super stoked when you see a pretty gift wearing a pretty tag with your name on it? DUH. So here’s what’s on Mommy’s list this year.

Last year for Christmas/Birthday I got a Canon Rebel. I got so hooked! It reminded me of those Christmases when I was little, and I would spend the whole break playing with my favorite toy. Because that’s what I did. I’m still in love with the thing. I still go through phases where I get addicted to those youtube tutorials. And Pinterest has added even more fun to my “toy”. So this year, I cannot wait to get my hands on a new lens and possibly even some editing software. I know pretty much zero about digital photography compared to other camera toting mommies, but I do know that this lens is what makes the background all blurry. I freakin’ love aperture. And this bad boy goes all the way to 1.8! Which means lots of blur. Like I said, I am way knowledgeable. Psssh.

Then there's Vera. Bradley, that is. I used to hate it, laugh at it, and even made Jamie swear to hit me if I ever wanted to buy it, but that was then. And this is now. Maybe it’s just me, but I feel like the stuff is cuter. Or maybe my taste changed? Either way, I love it. And I love the Happy Snails print “like a fat kid loves cake”—[best line ever btw]. I really want the diaper bag. Really. With Aiden, I had a navy Kate Spade which I loved, but I cannot wait to carry something girly! I also like how lightweight the bag is. Cause let’s face it, the smaller the human, the larger the amount of crap necessities to lug around.

I am addicted to the Starbucks Café Mocha. Straight up addicted. One morning, while in the drive-thru line at Starbucks (no joke), I heard an advertisement about getting that “coffee house latte” at home. Heck yeah! And the coolest part is that this guy puts it all in one pot. No steaming the milk, then adding the espresso. I can do that. Now, I’m no dummy. I know it won’t be the exact concoction that the $500 dollar machine and paid barista produce, but it’s close enough. And better than forking out that extra $4 each time. I even found the mocha powder they use for sale on ebay. Word.

Okay, let’s talk sparkle (and wishful thinking). I planted a seed to the husband back in October about some possible David Yurman jewelry. Let’s just say if this happens, I will cry like a baby. Or scream like a toddler. I always love anything he picks out for me. He really is the best shopper. Better than me. So, chances are, I will be ecstatic about whatever he gives me. Just a little extra enthusiasm if it has a little cable detailing. {wink}

Now, I do know that the true fun of Christmas is the giving. And, no lie, I am just as stoked (if not more) to give gifts this year. I am about to bust! I love that we started early, but having to wait is killer. So in the words of Alvin and the gang, "Hurry, Christmas. Hurry fast!"

Christmas through Aiden's Eyes

Christmas is absolutely, positively my favorite time of the year. I love the anticipation, the smells, the music, the food, the family, the hustle and bustle, and most of all, the traditions. I have held onto my childhood traditions without fail throughout adulthood, so when Aiden was born, I was excited to continue them without feeling somewhat silly in front of the husband. The past two Christmases were great, don't get me wrong, but Aiden still didn't grasp the whole concept.

This year?

Haha...so into it! I. Love. It.

It started a few weeks ago when Santa sent us the Elf on the Shelf. We read the book, and all he wanted to do when we finished was to open it and get the elf out. But, of course, we can't touch him because he might lose his magic! Later that day, the elf (creatively named "Elf" by Aiden) had found his way out of the box! The look on his face? Priceless. He was sold. My son got his first experience of Christmas magic. And every morning since, as soon as those little feet hit the floor downstairs, he walks around so eagerly, looking up/down/all around for Elf. And when he finds him, you hear the sweetest, most energetic "WOOOOK!", and he lights up just like the first time. It rocks. He gets that the elf is here to watch him and report to Santa, so you better believe every time he finishes a complete meal or helps me in the kitchen, he makes sure it is known! "Elf! I eat all my food!" He also finds time to remind Elf that he wants a Batman helicopter. So stinkin' cute.

Elf may be the cutest tradition we have going on, but it's not the only one. So far, Aiden has helped pick out gifts, wrap gifts, select and decorate the tree, and watch all of the Christmas classics. Right now, his favorites have been "Turboman" (Jingle All the Way) and Frosty the Snowman--which made him so upset the first time he watched it because Frosty melted. "Mommy, the snowman's gone" (insert the most pitiful pouty/sad expression) So sweet. We have yet to visit Santa, but I have a feeling that will be a post all its own.

I always knew it would be fun celebrating Christmas with my children, but I NEVER knew it would be this thrilling. Witnessing that innocent trust and the look of "Wow" on his face melts me every time.

Christmas morning cannot come soon enough!

Catching up with the Warrens...

hmmm...let's see if I remember how to write.

I guess I get a little lazy. Also, I am a self-professed master-procrastinator. But, oh well. It is what it is. I'll blog four times a year, I guess.

So in the Warren house, we have been getting everything ready for Christmas. Actually, I have been getting ready since before Halloween (with the music, movies, and I even printed a Christmas planner!), but that's because I FREAKIN' LOVE CHRISTMAS! I mean seriously. I get all giddy when I pull up to get my Starbucks cafe mocha, and receive THE Christmas cup. I also love when Hallmark and ABC Family start showing those cheesy movies. {sigh} That's good stuff.

We had an excellent Thanksgiving Break (a.k.a. Christmas Break Practice). We ate wonderful food (twice), made a Wal-Mart trip that night, and even an early excursion to one of my fave places around the holidays, Bath and Body Works. I was proud of myself. After a day full of eating, I stood (sometimes sat on the floor) in line for 1.5 hours, slept four a few hours, then got up again! Go preggo! Aiden helped me decorate that week also, and even helped pick out the perfect tree. He was ultra picky, too. I was so proud. The tree? Is a big deal. Not even kidding. There were a few issues with our lights this year--I almost cried, but the crisis was averted.

So that brings us to the past couple of weeks. I have spent my days counting down with my students, trying to incorporate Christmas into every single lesson so that I had something to look forward to, and on days I was really bummed, making Starbucks runs. I've spent the evenings watching all of the Christmas classics with Aiden and even a few new ones. Jamie has even joined in on the viewing parties! Now, we're in the home stretch--four days and two hours to be exact. Man, it's gonna be a loooong week. And the kids are going to be insane, but I can do it! I just think of the payoff! Two whole weeks at home with my baby boy and watching him enjoy the most wonderful time of the year!

15 Weeks Bumpdate

I am attempting to stay on task with these pregnancy updates. I have not even come close to my goal of weekly posts and maternity photos. I guess I have been a little more than lazy lately (as stated in a previous post). So don't hate if I slack yet again. I'm hoping this second trimester has that second wind I have been waiting for...

How far along: 15 weeks

Total weight gain: Ugh. 8 pounds. Already. You would think with all of the uh..."output" lately, it would be a lower number, but nope. I blame the girls. They. Won't. Stop. *TMI? Sorry*

Maternity clothes: I can still zip my super stretchy denim leggings which I adore. Everything else requires the trusty Bella Band. I have busted out a few of my old maternity pieces from Aiden, but most of those are very summery, bright colors, so I'm working with what I have at the moment. I did; however, browse inspiring blogs for style tips (Thank you, Aura Joon and Katie!) I have had two successful shopping trips to TJ Maxx/Ross/Marshall's and Forever 21. I am proud to say I have not purchased anything maternity! So I am hoping to wear these bargain items again! I also racked up on some great accessories at Charming Charlie and World Market! SWOON.

Sleep: Dude. I love sleep. During the week, I sleep from 8 to 6. I steal a nap when I can, and on the weekends, I get close to 12 hours. Did I mention I love sleep?

Cravings: Not anything big. In the beginning, if I saw it on TV, I had to have it. But nothing really stuck. Currently, I am loving milk and anything I can pair with it: cereal, brownies, cookies. etc. I'm sure this will kick in soon. But for now, I love everything.

Best moment for these weeks: We got to see the little one at Uncle/Dr. Roy's office. We couldn't guess the gender, but it was the first time we've seen him/her looking like a baby. Cute little profile, hands, legs, the works! Hopefully, we'll get a better look in a couple of weeks.

Movement: not yet

Labor Signs: no, gladly!

Belly button in or out: popped out on the top. EW. And if I eat a big meal, it HURTS!

What I miss: Not having heartburn all day and not throwing up all week. Definitely miss that.

Milestones: Ultrasound pics!

Favorite moments: Anytime I cuddle with Aiden. I'm trying to get in all of the extra one on one time I can!

Pregnancy (and everything else) Catch Up

So, I'd be lying if I didn't say that I have slacked. A lot. But, in fairness, I have slacked on everything else as well. For one, I decided to stop cleaning the house. I straightened it up now and then (or Jamie did, which means it got really bad). But as for scrubbing, vacuuming, sweeping, etc.--NO. But the good thing that came out of this area of laziness is the hiring of the most wonderful cleaning lady ever. I never in a million years thought I would ever do this. It was up there with driving a mini-van or wearing Crocs. But I did it. And...it's freakin' fabulous. It's nice to know it will always be clean. One less thing to float around in my head until it's checked off the never ending list.

I am going to ease myself back into cooking again. I do enjoy it. Really. It's just difficult to get back up after those afternoon naps (that are a MUST) and motivate myself to stand in the kitchen for an hour. Hopefully, the second trimester--my favorite will bring back some energy soon. For now, the family will settle for to-go, fast food, frozen stuff, and dinners with the grandparents. But I will be back. I have watched way too much Food Network lately. Cravings need to be satisfied.

Another area I need to get back into is the couponing. WOW. Two drawers full of unorganized/uncut coupon inserts. I really don't even want to write about this because it stresses me out too much. I have a feeling I will get back into it as soon as my husband stops asking me about it. I'll get close to diving in again, then he asks, and POOF! my ambitions are shot. Kinda like when I would want to clean my room until my mom would remind me to. haha.

As far as how I have been feeling, I have been sick with cold/allergies/sinus/feelinglikecrap stuff for three weeks now, so I have not really felt very pregnant. Other than the thousands of pee trips throughout the day. I am happy that my nausea has subsided, though. That was not the funnest. With Aiden, I only remember feeling queasy a few times. This one was everyday. So glad I seem to be past that phase. I have definitely "popped". I have a friend who is 2 months ahead of me and we look about the same. What they say about the second and "uterus memory" is so true. But I was excited to get out my old maternity duds and especially those oh-so-wonderful Bella Bands! I have been eating like a maniac. Which has contributed to the aforementioned popping. But dang, y'all. Food tastes so good.

Aiden has fully grasped the fact that there is a baby in Mommy's belly. He kisses it, says "Hi. Wha' you doin?" and "I Aiden" (so cute). But that's about it. When we talk about the baby being outside of the belly...he is not so interested. Conversations go like this:
Us: Aiden, are you going to help love the baby?
Aiden: Uh huh. I love the baby.
Us: Can the baby sleep in your room too?
Aiden: No.
Us: Can the baby play with your toys?
Aiden: No.
We're working on that. I'm sure he will adjust fine. I realize it's going to rock his little world, but he has always been so easy going with change and milestones, that I don't worry about it too much. I just can't wait to see them together. UGH so sweet.

I'll leave you with the latest pic of the little one and a video of hearing the heartbeat. The pic was from our last ultrasound session at 9 weeks. Still a little bean, but with little arms and legs. We even got to see them kicking. The heartbeat was heard at 10 weeks which was our final confirmation...that was when I finally cried the tears of joy. I can't wait until our next appointment around 15 weeks. We'll get to try and sneak a peak at the gender! EEEEEK!