The Eustace's

My Prince

2011-11-02T09:13:00.001-07:00

Tripp's Story

2011-09-08T08:18:00.000-07:00

Up until my due date I was fine with still being pregnant. We had lots of projects around the house and we were being really productive, including having a yard sale 2 days before I went into labor. But when August 22nd came around I was so sad that I didn't have my baby yet. I was complaining to Tim and he kept telling me that predicting your due date is not an exact science. So instead of pouting at home Tighe and I got out of the house and hung out with one of my girlfriends and went grocery shopping.

When Tim was on his way home from work he asked if I had been having contractions and I said nothing regular. But then as soon as he got home they started. I didn't want to say anything because I was afraid that they were just braxton hicks and would stop. But around 8pm I noticed that they were becoming very regular and I told Tim that I thought tonight might be the night. He had the cutest reaction, he was on the floor and did a back summer sault and started getting so excited. I started to get nervous that it wasnt the real thing and I was getting him excited for nothing but decided to get things ready to go just in case. Then around 10pm we timed my contraction for about an hour and all thought they were regular they just weren't strong enough for me to go to the hospital so we decided to get some sleep. At 1am I decided to get up because I beginning to feel more uncomfortable and couldn't sleep anymore so I took a shower and got ready and went downstairs so that I didn't bother Tim and Tighe. Tim came downstairs at 3am and we started timing my contractions again. After an hour we decided it was time to go to the hospital since my contractions were definately strong enough to take my breath away at this point.

I called my mom to say that we were bringing Tighe over and I talked to my sister, she sounded panicked but excited. When we pulled up in front of the house you could tell they were both nervous. We finally got to the hospital at 5am and I knew that this was the real thing but Tim kept teasing me that I was going to get sent home since I wasn't admitted until my 3rd time going to labor and delivery with Tighe. There were 2 other girls that got to the hospital at the same time as me so it took a little while for them to get me settled in.

Once they checked me the nurse said I was 5cm dialated and my water bag was bulging so I was staying! I was so excited i was going to be meeting my baby boy in just a few hours. I decided that I didn't want an epidural since it didn't work correctly with Tighe and I had horrible back pain for months afterwords. But I had no idea how hard it was going to be. In the hospital I was progressing about 1cm per hour so when they told me I was between 8-9 at 9:30am I was very hopeful that it was going to be over soon. The contractions were so hard at this point that Tim said I reminded him of the exorcist. I would grab the railings of the bed and arch my back and stay in that position until the contraction was over. Up until that point I would say that the contractions were bearable, they were very painful but I wasn't cursing or yelling yet. By the time 10am rolled around I was exhauted from the pain and was starting to get very discouraged that I had to keep having these horrible contractions every 2 minutes. I asked my nurse to call the dr. to see if she could break my water to help me progress but she said she was with another patient and wouldn't be able to come. I was about to lose it at this point but Tim kept me calm. He was so amazing throughout my entire labor! He crawled in bed with me and massaged my back, he reassured me over and over again how great I was doing. And during that last hour he kept promising me I was going to have my baby by 11:10 and I only had to suffer through one more hour with every contraction he counted down. He kept telling me to try to stand to see if I could get my water to break on its own but I had no strenght and it took everything to get me to finally try. I was in so much pain that the yelling and cursing was in full force! And then I became so tired that I was sleeping inbetween contactions. As soon as they would start I would wake up and yell a few profanities and then when it was over I was dead asleep again, it was really funny.

My water broke at around 10:45 and I got really scared because I heard the nurse say there was meconium in the water, but she reassured me it was ok. Finally at around 10:55 I felt the urge to push. My nurse checked me and said I was at a 10, I had never been so relieved in my entire life, the torture was almost over. But then when my Dr. checked me she said I still had a little bit of cervix and if I pushed I could tear it and cause problems. I started panicking because I didn't see how I couldn't push since the urge was so strong. They told me to just breathe through them, and after a few contractions she said I was ready. At this point I thought there was no way I was going to be able to push the baby out because I had no strength left. And I felt like everyone was yelling at me. Then after a couple of pushes Tripp Patrick Eustace was born at 11:17am weighing 8lbs 3oz. I looked at him and the first thing I said was that he looked exactly like Tighe, except Tripp had tons of hair covering his back and shoulders.

After Tripp was born I was hemmorhaging really bad and I started to get scared when the Dr. was calling asking for more help and naming different types of medicine to give me while she was yelling at me to hold still and kept saying over and over again that I was hemmorhaging really bad. I knew it was serious when I saw Tim look at me from across the room where he was with Tripp and then rush to my side with panic in his eyes. I looked at him and said I feel like I am going to faint. After what felt like forever they got the bleeding under control and I was able to finally hold my baby. Tripp's labor was 10x worse then Tighe's and I thought Tighe's was bad. Looking back, I will absolutely get an Epidural next time! I was able to deliver Tripp naturally and accomplish my goal but I don't have any desire to do it again!

It's time!

2011-08-22T14:53:00.000-07:00

Oh baby boy why must you torture me like this? I will admit that I have been very nervous about meeting you and I have been making deals with you to stay in there a little bit longer. But mom is ready now!!! I know it may seem as if you are really cozy in there but I promise you we are a lot of fun and you will love it on the outside. I really don't think I am asking for too much after all you have reached your due date and you have spent 40 whole weeks in my belly. So lets get this party started and come on out already!

Ready or Not

2011-08-11T09:50:00.000-07:00

We are getting so close to meeting our new baby boy. And although I am still really nervous about going from one to two and being able to balance everything, I am so excited to finally meet this little one. This week has been hard on me, I have been feeling like a bad mom because I have lost the energy to play with Tighe like we normally do. I have just been turning on the T.V. and letting him watch as much as he wants. And I know that it is temporary and I don't have much longer being pregnant but I can't help but to feel like I should be doing more. For two years it has been all about him and now we are bringing in another one to the mix and sometimes I worry about how it will affect him. Don't get me wrong I think Tighe is going to be great, he loves babies, and he is such a love bug that I think he is going to be in heaven having a baby brother. But it is going to be a big change for him, and I hope that I continue to show him how loved and special he is to me despite how hectic things get in the next few months. I guess what I am trying to say is that I know once the baby comes it going to be crazy around here but I know that the love that will come with having him will make every struggle worth it.

Prego Pics

2011-07-13T08:32:00.000-07:00

Here are a few maternity pics Kristin took for us. Tighe was not being cooperative and I had given up trying to get him to listen, but she still managed to get some beautiful shots with him. We decided to just take them in our backyard and in one of the orange groves in our community, it's funny how simple they are just with just our backyard fence and love seat but I love them. I am so glad we were able to get a few last pics as a family of three, and highlight the baby boy that is growing very rapidly in my belly.

King for the Day

2011-06-23T08:10:00.000-07:00

This year for Father's day we crowned Tim king for the day and headed to Medieval Times. He had never been before and had wanted to go for a long time. Unfortunately he decided that he would have like it more when he was younger, cause now he just looked at the actors and kept thinking how he could beat them up, haha. And it didn't help that our wench/waitress spilt hot soup all over him, and didn't even apologize. But it was nice to get out as a family since we have been so busy lately working on house projects and the food was really good, and you know that is all it takes to keep me happy.

Yard work

2011-06-09T11:17:00.000-07:00

My boys have been working hard in the backyard getting it ready for Summer. We had the concrete poured a couple of weeks ago and the grass is finally being put in today, WOOHOOO! We are so excited to spend our nights on our patio, barbecuing and hanging out watching our boy play. Yay for Summer!!

Prom

2011-06-01T09:32:00.001-07:00

OK seriously, how is my baby sister old enough for Prom? I was just picking her up from kindergarten yesterday.

It made me so happy that she let me get her ready for her big day. It meant a lot to me to be a part of it. I love this girl!

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-18T09:22:00.000-07:00

My boys took me to Disneyland for Mother's Day. Too bad I didn't get a picture of myself with my son, oh well trust me no one wants to see me right now, it's not cute. But let me tell you about my mom. She is amazing and very cute!!!! Being a mom now I appreciate her even more. She is super woman, I am not even exaggerating when I say she can do ANYTHING!! I love you mom, Winter, Spring, Summer, or Fall!

Easter 2011

2011-04-30T09:03:00.000-07:00

Can you tell my kid is a little bit obsessed with Elmo? We had another great Easter spent with family! I can't tell you enough how much I love them, I seriously lucked out, they are the best!

Egg Hunt

2011-04-28T08:38:00.000-07:00

Shortly after we moved into our new house we learned that a friend of Tim's lived around the corner. His wife and I started to make play dates and quickly became friends. We have had so much fun getting to hang out with our new neighbors! For Easter we decided to have an egg hunt in the backyard, they have a beautiful yard. I loved watching the kids as they scrambled around looking for eggs, although Tighe wasn't too interested in it, he just wanted to play on their swing set.

29

2011-04-15T10:16:00.000-07:00

I had my first 29th B-Day on Tuesday! And what a great day it was. I got to have lunch with my mom and Tighe at Honey Cut Farms, and got very spoiled by her. I wish my mom could just be my personal shopper, she always finds great deals and I love everything she picks out for me. Getting dressed for me lately has been my very least favorite thing to do, I'm not a good pregnant person. But with all my cute new clothes I actually have been getting excited about picking out what I get to wear for the day.

When Tim got home from work we headed to Guadalajara's my absolute favorite Mexican restaurant. At first I think Tim wanted it to be a surprise that he called my family and invited them but I don't think anyone really new and after I talked to them I knew they were coming too. The funny thing is that Tim also had cake and ice cream planned as a surprise at my mom's after dinner and that surprise got spoiled too. Tim planned everything and it was so cute. I got princess balloons, and princess plates and a cute giant cupcake-cake. Then to top it off he got us Disneyland annual passes! It really was such a great day. Thank you babe for always letting me know how special I am to you!

It just keeps getting better

2011-04-13T09:30:00.000-07:00

Just when I think I couldn't possibly love my husband anymore I wake up next to him (well, technically next to Tighe who is next to him, haha we are working on it) and realize that I love him more than before. Most of you know that our road to each other was a rocky one. But I wouldn't have it any other way because it helps me to appreciate him so much more. Tim is my dream man! He came to me at a very hard time in my life. A family friend who I am now privileged to call my own friend called me and told me she had someone she wanted me to meet. I did not want to go out with him! She had set me up on a previous date about a month before and I didn't think another blind date was going to go anywhere. My ex was desperately trying to get back with me at the time and I was very confused. I remember talking to my mom about it and saying that I would just go on the date so everyone would stop bugging me.

Then I got the call, and the boy with the cute Boston accent asked me out. We made plans to go out that Friday, which happened to be Friday the 13th, and the day after my B-Day. And to be honest once we hung up I didn't think about the date again until he called me on Friday to tell me what time he was going to pick me up. I was at work when he called me and I hadn't even showered that morning, haha. When I got home I didn't have much time so I just changed my clothes and tried to freshen up a bit. But I didn't really care because I knew I wasn't going to like him and I was just going out with him as a favor. When he knocked at the door I opened it and I knew I was in trouble. He was so cute! I said Hi, and immediately told him to hang on while I went back into the bathroom and frantically tried to fix my hair and my make up. The funny thing is, he didn't really want to go out with me either. He even had a friend call him while we were out to see if he needed to be rescued.

We started our date with dinner at California Pizza Kitchen. I couldn't wipe the cheesy grin off my face the whole night, I was like a little girl with a big crush. After dinner we decided to go miniature golfing. I knew we were going to have fun when he turned to me and said, "I'm not one of those guys who lets girls win, just so you know". And boy was he eating his words at the end of that game when I won! I still will never let him forget that.

I know it seems like a normal first date, but everything seemed to click that night. We had chemistry that I hadn't felt in a long time. After we started dating Tim told me that our first date was the best that he has ever had. And I agreed, it was such a fun night. It's funny to think how one decision can change your life forever. If we hadn't agreed to go on that blind date I wouldn't have my wonderful family that I love more than I could ever put into words. My life was changed forever that day. Thank you Tim for taking a chance! You are my better half.

Boys, Boys, Boys!

2011-03-13T10:31:00.000-07:00

We found out yesterday that we will be adding another boy to the Eustace fam. Tim was so convinced that it was going to be a boy he went out and bought them bunk beds before we even knew for sure. I am really excited that Tighe is going to have a little brother. I know these boys are going to get into all kinds of trouble together and will probably cause me countless trips to the E.R. for who knows what kind of bumps and bruises. But I can't wait to see the friendship that they form. Looks like our weekends are going to be full with baseball games, and hockey practices.

But I am keeping my fingers crossed that I will eventually get to have a little girl. Let's be honest, I am very girly and love all things pink! I am looking forward to the bows and ruffles but for now I am really enjoying playing with tools and dump trucks.

Mug Shot

2011-03-11T15:43:00.000-08:00

WARNING:

This is what happens when you leave your child unattended for just a few minutes while you try to pay some bills online.

Tighe somehow managed to get my unopened box of chocolates off of our dining room table. He got all of the wrapping off by himself opened the box and stuffed as many chocolates in his mouth as fast as he could knowing that his time was limited before he was discovered. What I want to know is how did he know what was inside the box?

Christmas Catch Up

2011-03-11T11:16:00.000-08:00

We had a very special Christmas this year. We got to celebrate in our new home with all 3 of us! We spent Christmas eve at my mom's house eating our traditional home made macaroni and cheese, it was my Dad's favorite. And driving around looking at Christmas lights. I don't think I have ever been so excited for Christmas morning to come. It was such an amazing moment to watch my little boy light up with happiness as he saw all of the presents waiting for him at the bottom of the stairs.
Here are some cute pics of my boy and his bead head!

Bubba

2011-02-25T10:59:00.000-08:00

I love this boy! He is such a sweetheart, and loves to give lots of hugs and kisses. He is super easygoing and is very independent. He loves hiding in cupboards, and playing chase. He can't wait for his daily walk in his wagon and gets so happy whenever he sees it on the front porch. Elmo is his absolute favorite! When he sees Tim's iphone he grabs it as fast as he can and hands it to one of us demanding for Elmo. All of Tim's videos on youtube are of Elmo, oh the life of a parent. He is so friendly and outgoing. It takes me forever to get through a store because he has to waive and say Hi to everyone we pass. He doesn't have a huge vocabulary, but right now he loves to say "Oh No!" It is so cute to see his eyes get big and hear him get so serious like something is really wrong whenever he says it. He is a love bug and I cant get enough of him!

What we have been up to

2011-01-21T10:35:00.000-08:00

I don't even know where to start so I think I will just do a quick recap of everything that has been going on since I last updated. Nov. 4th after much stress and studying I received my cosmetology license. This was a huge weight off my shoulders and a huge accomplishment considering I started school when I was 8 weeks pregnant and had to finish with a newborn and my husband deployed. Nov. 5th we got the keys to our new house! After 8 months of looking and looking and looking God blessed us with our dream home. Dec. 22 we found out we are expecting baby number 2!!!! I have been really sick, and non existent. I am counting down the days until I hit my second trimester and I can stop being such a hermit. But I don't want to complain, I am going to have another baby at the end of this so it is all worth it. Jan. 6th we went to Boston to visit family. Because I was sick we didn't do much, but it was great to see all of our loved ones that we missed. Tighe had a blast playing with his cousins, he is such a lover boy hugging and kissing everyone. We have been very busy these past couple of months and I have lots of pictures to post, but I am way too lazy right now!!!!

My Wish

2010-10-24T20:55:00.000-07:00

I wish you could be here to meet Tighe. He is named after you, and I know he will be proud to be able to carry it on.

I wish you could have met Tim. It is scary how much he reminds me of you. I know you would have loved him as much as I do. Sometimes I forget you never met, I have talked to him so much about you I feel as if he knew you.

I wish you could be here to watch Taylor play soccer, and see what a beautiful young woman she has grown up to be. She is amazing, and I know you would be so proud of her.

I wish you could still "coach" Travis. I hope that Tim and Tighe can be as close as you guys were. I know he misses you so much.

I wish I could come home and see the ping pong table set up in the family room and you and mom battling for the win. And I wish you could see what mom has done to the garage,haha.

I wish I had one more day.

Splish Splash, We Had a Blast

2010-10-15T11:21:00.000-07:00

I might have gone a little overboard for Tighe's 1st birthday. But what normal mom doesn't for their first born, right? Since September is so hot I knew that I wanted the kids to have lots of fun cooling off in the water. The only challenge was how I was going to get the water to the park. Luckily I have a very smart and talented husband, and very giving family and friends who let us borrow enough hoses to get from my mom's house to the park. It was quite the challenge but Tim made sure the pools were filled and the slip and slide was ready. I am so glad that we were able to pull it off because the kids loved it. They had so much fun swimming and splashing, and Tighe made sure he was in charge of the hose. I loved watching my baby playing with all of his cousins and friends as we celebrated his first year. It really was such a special day for me. To see how many people love Tighe truly made me so happy. I have the most amazing family and friends!

Being 1 is so much fun!!

2010-09-13T10:26:00.000-07:00

My baby boy turned 1 on Friday!! We started the celebration on Thursday by going to Disneyland. I couldn't believe how much fun he had, he loved it! His first ride was Peter Pan and he was so sad when we had to get off he started to scream and cry. Luckily he got over it really fast and was able to enjoy the rest of the day. He was such a trooper, we were there from 10:00 am until 7:30 pm and he stayed so happy the whole time. I loved watching him get all wide eyed and curious as he tried to take it all in. But the funniest part of the day was when we were going down some stairs with him in his stroller and he started laughing harder than he had on any ride.

Tighe has made our lives so much better. I don't even remember what is was like before we had him, and I have no idea what I did with all of my time. I am so thankful for my little sidekick!

Catalina

2010-08-18T08:10:00.000-07:00

Tim and I needed a little alone time, so we left the boy with my mom and had a great night away in Catalina. We had so much fun that now Tim is trying to plan a trip for us to go on our own boat. I'm not sure the Tiramasu is ready for it, but it should be a fun story to tell.

Reunited and it feels so good!

2010-08-12T12:03:00.000-07:00

Tim's homecoming was a very emotional day. It's funny because now it feels like he was never gone. I kept trying not to get my hopes up when I got the phone message confirming their arrival time, since I knew there were still so many things that could still cause them to be delayed. The volcano in Iceland had pushed back the advance party about 1 week and I remember thinking if that happened to Tim's flight I would have a complete fit. Each day that lead up to him coming home seemed to take as long as the entire 6 months he was gone. Luckily he was only delayed about 12 hours. Instead of arriving Sunday night as we were originally told he came in Monday morning. Which ended up being a positive thing because if he would have came in on Sunday night he would have had to go back to work on Monday (crazy I know), but instead they got the day off on Monday and only had to go in for a few hours on Tuesday. I still can't believe that after 6 months of deployment they had to go to work the day after they returned home but I guess the Marine Corps doesn't get to take a break.

Tim called me when he landed at March Air Force Base and told me to start heading down to Camp Pendleton. At this point it still didn't seem real. Once we got to Tim's hanger on base the panic started to set in. There were so many people, and I didn't want it to turn into this huge production where we got lost in the crowd and my reunion that I had been dreaming of for 6 long months would turn into a chaotic mess of pushing through people trying to find him. So I took a second to myself and said a little prayer that we would be able to find each other easily. And let me tell you God is amazing!!!!!

The buses started coming towards the hanger and you could feel the excitement around you growing. At first I thought they would just pull up and start coming out and head straight to the crowd but then I saw that the buses doors weren't facing us and as they were lining up no one was getting off. At this point I was getting very impatient, and had a brief moment of wanting to run through the crowd and storm the buses, but luckily I was able to restrain myself. As the Marines started to exit you still couldn't see them since they were behind the bus and I think everyone started to wonder what was going on. And then in true "Home makeover" fashion they moved the buses and there were the Marines lined up in formation. I frantically started to look for Tim, and everyone I looked at seemed to resemble him. But then I looked straight in front of me and there he was. I couldn't believe it, we were perfectly aligned, it was an amazing moment.

At first I was worried that he wouldn't see us but then I saw him look in our direction and I knew that he had found us as well. They ended the formation and he started walking towards us and I became overwhelmed. He hugged me and all of my anxiety turned into pure joy! Tighe was a little hesitant of him at first, but did surprisingly well. He even let Tim hold him which really surprised me since he usually doesn't let people he is not comfortable with . I am not going to lie, things were a little bit awkward at first. Maybe awkward isn't the right word, but it's difficult to explain, I guess I can just say that it took a few weeks of adjusting back to our "normal ". It has been such a huge relief to know that we got through his first deployment successfully. And a huge relief to have him home safe. I love having my family back together!

Overdue

2010-08-10T10:18:00.000-07:00

To say life has been crazy lately would be an understatement. I thought that once Tim was home I would have more free time since I would have him around to help, but boy was I wrong. I think my to do list just tripled! He hasn't had any time off since he has been home but we are working on that. I finally graduated from cosmetology school and now I am just waiting to take my state board test. And we are still trying to buy a house, which has turned out to be more difficult than we anticipated but we are crossing our fingers that good things are happening right now with that. I think I just gave up on blogging when I got so behind, but now that I don't have school everyday I am going to try my best to start going back and posting what we have been up to the past few months.

Here is a cute pic of the boy, I know its out of focus but I still like it. I can't believe he is going to be one next month. Time sure does fly when you are having fun!!!

Day 186

2010-05-16T15:39:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that this deployment is coming to an end tomorrow! This truly has been a growing experience. I have grown as a mother and a wife, and I am proud of myself for staying strong and becoming more independent throughout these past 6 months. Tim and I have had many conversations about what it is going to be like when we see each other again and we both feel like we are going to be able to start right where we left off. But yet I am still nervous about our reunion. I don't know how quite to explain the anxiousness that I feel. I love my husband and I know how much he cherishes me but it almost feels like I am going on our first date again. And I'm not sure whether or not he is going to like me and be attracted to me. Which I know is so silly because he tells me every day that Tighe and I mean the world to him and that meeting me was the best thing that has ever happened to him in his life. And to be honest it is kind of nice to know that I still get butterflies in my stomach when I think about him. And I know as soon as we see each other and he gives me a hug and a kiss all of my insecurities will go away.

I am ecstatic to have him home with us. And I am even more excited for him to be able to see Tighe. He has missed him so much and now he gets to finally be able to hold his baby again. He has so many plans already for what they are going to do together while I am at school and I am glad that they are going to get that time alone together.

Surprisingly this deployment has not been as hard as I anticipated. Don't get me wrong it wasn't easy I missed Tim every day and my heart ached for him every time Tighe would learn something new or do something funny that I wish he could see. But we have stayed strong and positive they entire time and our relationship has grown because of our strength. And I am so thankful that I was able to stay with my mom and she has been able to help me so much, I know I couldn't have done it without her. Tomorrow is going to be amazing! My family is finally going to be together again and I couldn't be happier! It has been 186 long days but I would do it all over again and I am sure we will, because I love and support Tim and will for the rest of my life. Going through this has just help to reiterate that we can get through anything together because of how much we truly do love each other.

First Tooth

2010-05-04T20:48:00.000-07:00

Kristin took this great pic, and captured Tighe's first tooth. Now he is starting to get his top one that is on the opposite side of the bottom and is starting to slightly resemble a jack o lantern haha.

Inspiration

2010-04-15T19:17:00.000-07:00

Lately Tim and I have been talking a lot about houses and what we want in one. We want to buy a house when he gets home and hopefully keep the other house rented out. We have been looking online and it quickly became obvious that we wanted different things. I of course wanted a newer house that wasn't going to take much work, and Tim wants something older so that we can get more for our money, and I know how much he loves projects. A few days ago we were discussing what type of house we should get when I told Tim that we were going to have to compromise. This morning Tim sent me a text message about our house discussion, and what he had to say really touched me. Tim is so kind and giving, he has so much passion and love for his family and for his country. This is what he shared with me....

"I was thinking about the house and me wanting something old, you something new, and the talk of compromise. I read an interesting quote on compromise. It said "compromise is an agreement whereby both parties get what neither of them wanted." I think I would like you to pick our house, the house you want. I will be happy knowing that I have the family that I want with nothing compromised. The more I think about it I feel as if a good relationship would have more submission than compromise. After all it's the relationship God wants with us, no compromise, a submission to his will. He did not compromise with us for our salvation, he gave it freely through his love for us. Lets fix this little girl I like to call America one baby at a time. This country needs parents, moms like you, dads like me. One nation under God. I'm tired of watching it's collapse. There is no one day fix. But a need to strengthen the foundation and build future leaders. Ronald Reagen said " All great change begins at the dinner table." And that my baby girl is the change I believe in. I can see clear as day now that it is not what a man says, its what he does. I say a lot and do far less. I trumpet my mouth as though I'm some sort of dignitary, or worse a politician. I think the world has too many politicians and not enough foot soldiers. I speak of ideals but am weak. My sons will be stronger than me, and for this I rejoice. My father did well, I will do better, it's the reversal of apathy. It took so much out of me to think I had to make others see things my way, the way of great Americans. I bought into the philosophy that when things are given they are not appreciated. That is often true when speaking of material things, but not of good parenting. I appreciate all that my parents taught me, far more of those were taught in deed rather than lecture, I hope to balance the two. I am a new father and a new husband but I am not new. I have lived a life full of experiences, some good, some bad, some painful, and some miraculous. I am a Christian father, a husband, a Marine. I am the son of one man and one women. I have one sister and two brothers. I am as American as apple pie. There are many more of me out there, if you are one stand with me. Lets not stand by and have the land of our inheritance be taken. "

His words inspire me and I hope they inspire you as well.

Easter

2010-04-08T09:05:00.001-07:00

Day 135

2010-04-05T10:20:00.000-07:00

Tim should be on his way home in 40 days! This makes me the happiest girl in the world. Being apart for this long has been so hard for the both of us. But the sacrifices that we are making now are going to better our family in the future. I am so lucky to have such a wonderful husband who works so hard for his family. He has kept such a positive attitude throughout this entire deployment which has helped to keep me strong. I am counting down the days until my best friend is home and our family is back together!

Happy St. Patty's Day!

2010-03-17T19:37:00.001-07:00

Kiss Me I'm Irish!

6 Months

2010-03-17T18:03:00.000-07:00

My baby boy is growing up so fast!

Is obsessed with his tongue, has it out 90% of the time.
Crawling like a crazy man. There is no stopping this boy.
Shakes his head back and forth like he is saying No. Obviously he doesn't know what it means so I love to ask him questions while he is doing it, I think it is hilarious.
Loves to talk, Tim can hear him while we are on the phone, its really cute.
Watches cartoons in the morning when we first wake up. His favorite right now is Sesame Street, especially Elmo's world. I think this is the only time in the day where he will sit still.
Hates having his diaper changed and getting dressed. I have to do while he is trying to rolling over and trying to get away.
Is my love bug. Loves being held and will hug you back. I love it.
Pulls himself up on everything. Scares me to death, He thinks once he is standing he doesn't have to hold on anymore and lets go.
Is so happy and sweet, always smiling.
Finally getting some chunk on him, so cute!
Very excited his Daddy is coming home in 2 Months.

Proud Sister

2010-03-02T20:31:00.000-08:00

My little sister and I have always had a special relationship. I was 13 when she was born so I have had so much joy watching her grow up. This year Taylor started her Freshman year at Elsinore High School. She tried out for soccer and made the Varsity team! I was so proud of her. She is so talented and is such a hard worker I knew that she was going to do great. When she told me that her coach was Ryan Stevens I was so excited. I knew that he married my friend Amanda and that everyone who knew him had nothing but great things to say about him. And they were right, he is such an amazing coach. Taylor loves him and has learned so much from him. I loved going to watch her games and seeing her in action. By the middle of the season Taylor was starting and playing the majority of the game if not the whole game. I think she scored 4 goals through out the season and assisted in many more. Her team did so well they even made it to CIF for the first time in 10 years. Which means the last time they made it was in 2000 the year I graduated. I can't wait to watch her progress over these next few years I know that she is just going to continue to improve. I am such a proud sister!

Love Bugs

2010-03-02T20:16:00.000-08:00

We spent Valentines Day with the ones we love the most!

Future Olympian

2010-02-28T11:41:00.000-08:00

This is going to be an obnoxious mom post where all I do is brag about my baby, just to warn you. Tighe is such a crazy boy, he started crawling right before he turned 5 months and now he is absolutely out of control! He always seems to find his way over to the dog food and dog water, or to the T.V. wires and he loves outlets. Anything that he is not supposed to be playing with is the only thing he wants. The other day Kristin and Greg were over and he crawled into the kitchen grabbed on to the kitchen chair and pulled himself up to his feet. I wouldn't even say this if there weren't witnesses because everyone would think I was a cook saying my 5 month old can pull himself up. And then when he went to his Dr. appointment on Thurs she was asking me how he was doing and I told her that he was crawling already and she looked at me like I was crazy so I put him on the table and showed her. She thought he was amazing and told me that in her entire career she has never heard of a baby crawling so young. Then she said that when he is in the Olympics we need to call her, haha. He is such a strong, independent little boy. I love watching him explore and discover new things. Don't get me wrong there are some days when I wish I could still just set him down and not worry about him crawling away, and getting into stuff but it is amazing to see him in action!

Day 89

2010-02-18T12:24:00.000-08:00

Tim's deployment has been a challenge. It has been so hard to be apart from my best friend, and the other half of my heart. I can't put it into words how much I love him, and how much my heart aches for him. We are approaching the half way mark and I couldn't be more elated to have him home with us again. It is such an amazing feeling to know that there is an end in sight, since at times his time away has felt never ending. We both feel like we will be able to conquer anything that comes our way after dealing with this. I didn't know what to expect going into the deployment. I got a lot of advice from women who had been through this before, some said to prepare for it to be awkward when they first get home, others said they were frustrated at first when their husband got home because he was interfering with their schedules they had. I was honestly nervous that it wouldn't be the same when he got home. That somehow, him or I would change and it would be hard for us to get back to where we were. but now I know that our relationship is going to be better than it has ever been. When you are together you can express your love in so many different ways. When you are apart the only way to show your love is through words. And we have made sure that every opportunity we get to talk we tell one another just how happy we are to have each other. I can't wait to have my man back!!!!!!

On the Move

2010-02-13T15:09:00.000-08:00

Here is Tighe showing off.

I'm yours!

2010-02-13T14:41:00.000-08:00

Tim made sure I still had a good Valentines Day even though he is away. Thursday while at school I got the first delivery of roses. I was in the middle of working on a client when a handful of girls started telling me that someone was at the front desk for me. I walked up and saw the beautiful bouquet. I didn't start to get emotional until I read the sweet card. It made my entire month! Then yesterday when I cam home from school I saw my second delivery! Tim always spoils me. The second card made me laugh. It read, " Will you be my Valentine? Check Yes or No. " If you can believe it he actually asked me out with a note like that, haha. So now we love that Country song. I am a lucky girl.

Here are a few pics of the cookies I made for him. I sent him a box full of cute little valentine treats, and of course a card from Tighe.

5 Months

2010-02-13T13:43:00.000-08:00

Here is what baby boy has been up to this month!

Still loves to jump, and now can reach the ground in his jumper!

Not a big fan of solid foods, getting him to eat can be a challenge.

Loves when I sing 10 Little Monkeys Jumping on the Bed.

Has started crawling!

Is a good sleeper. I usually only have to gt up once to feed him.

Is the typical crazy boy. Loves to go fast, and be thrown high. the crazier it is the more he will laugh.

His eyes have turned more green.

Still has lots of hair. Although it has gotten a lot lighter.
Such a good baby!!!! Is always happy.

Loves to talk. He comes up with new sounds every day. I think his favorite one is putting his lips together, sticking his tongue out and vibrating his lips together. Which gets spit all over me.

Is drooling like crazy. Poor guy is always soaking wet.

He weighed 14 lbs 4 oz at his Dr. appointment a few weeks ago and was 23 1/4 inches long.

Not the best napper. He will only sleep if you are holding him. And it usually wont last more than 45min.

Stands up by himself while holding on to something. He is really strong, just needs to work on his balance.

Still misses his Daddy very much!!!

Miracles

2010-02-09T18:55:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to share a blog that I have been following. This story is a true testimony of God and his work. He is so great!!!!!! You can read about Bronson here!

Reading about this family helped me to realize how blessed I am. When I am feeling sorry for myself and I read a story like this I give myself a quick kick in the butt.

Military Shoot

2010-02-08T15:11:00.000-08:00

Right before Tim was about to deploy I heard about a free military session that Sean Walker a photographer from San Diego was offering. I contacted him and he was kind enough to do a photo shoot with us. I am so excited to show Tim these pictures. I think that they are so beautiful. I really can't say enough about Sean, he was no nice, and he made the entire experience comfortable and fun. Please check out his pictures here. He is so talented, I know that his success is going to continue to grow!

2010-01-26T18:23:00.000-08:00

Today I ditched school to hang out with this face!

We didn't even get out of our pajamas.

Just cuddled and laughed all day.

It was heaven.

Big Boy

2010-01-19T16:25:00.000-08:00

I can't believe Tighe is already trying to crawl. I am really scared for what this kid has in store for me.

P.S. Please turn off your sound before watching this video. I am a very annoying mom apparently.

Day 58

2010-01-18T20:38:00.000-08:00

I got to see my hot husband yesterday at a video teleconference! It only lasted 15 min but it totally made my day. It was fun to get to meet some of the other wives and be able to talk to women who are going through the same things as I am. One wife had an 11 day old baby girl, and one had a 6 week old. Both of them were born while there husbands were deployed. I am so thankful that Tim was with me when Tighe was born, he gave me so much strength and support through it all. The women were all so strong and have started to lean on each other during this hard time. Talking with them made me realize that I don't need to do this alone and I can reach out to them for help. So I think that I am going to start making more of an effort to become involved with other wives from Tim's unit.

It is incredible how I continue to fall more in love with Tim everyday. We have such an amazing relationship, and this time apart has helped us to appreciate it even more. I love how easy it is for him to express his love for me. He is so sincere and thoughtful, he always makes sure I know how much I am loved. And what is even better is that he is such an amazing Dad! It was so hard for him to leave Tighe, I can't even imagine what is must be like for him. It is going to be so wonderful to see them back together.

These past two months have been really hard, but I know that we are doing this for our future and for our family and these sacrifices that we are making now are going to all be worth it in the end. I have received so much comfort from the Lord. I know that he lives! Without him I would be lost trying to deal with the stress of raising a baby while my husband is at war. But he loves us all so much, and will help us through anything. He truly has carried me through all of this.

Oink Oink

2010-01-17T13:46:00.000-08:00

My baby boy is a little pig! I fed him rice cereal mixed with banana baby food for the first time and at first he didn't know what to think of it. He was too busy trying to feed himself and ended up with more on him than in his mouth. But the next time I fed him he loved it and would cry in between bites because I wasn't feeding him fast enough. It was seriously the funniest thing I have ever seen.

Tis the Season

2009-12-29T12:14:00.000-08:00

Christmas this year was really nice. My mom spoiled all of us as usual. And this year I got to spoil Tighe. I didn't even wrap any of the presents I got him because he already had so much it was ridiculous. I saved a few presents so that Tim can watch him open them when he can get back on Skype since it wasn't working Christmas morning. We all wore our Christmas pajamas to my grandparents house and enjoyed a wonderful dinner and even better company. I have the best family, we are all best friends and have so much fun together.

Sad

2009-12-29T11:12:00.000-08:00

I really hate to be a downer. But this has been so much harder than I anticipated. I miss Tim so much. I miss our Friday night dates, being able to call him, cuddling, him fixing everything, his corny jokes, his ranting about politics, his OCD, playtime with Tighe, his horrible driving, our talks about Christ, his teeth brushing haha I can't even explain how annoying he is when he does this, his love and support and his friendship. It's hard to put into words what I have been going through. At times I am mad at him, and blame him for everything that goes wrong while he is gone. And for some reason everything that can go wrong has. And at other times I feel inadequate and overwhelmed with dealing with things on my own. And I do have my good days where I am proud of my accomplishments and the good do outweigh the bad. But it is a constant struggle, and I suppose it takes getting use to. I know that I should be counting my blessings. I have a beautiful son, and a husband who loves us with all of his heart. But I am sad. I miss Tim!

Christmas Cheer

2009-12-25T12:03:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas!!!! XOXOXOXOXOXO

Bad Santa

2009-12-25T11:51:00.000-08:00

I couldn't wait to take Tighe to the mall to get his picture with Santa. Tighe did great but Santa was a bit creepy. When I went to go pick him up from Santa he wouldn't give him back to me. He kept saying " he's mine, I'm keeping him." I just laughed it off at first but then Tighe started to cry and he still wouldn't hand him over. It was really awkward, but the pictures turned out cute.

Old Town Photos

2009-12-20T18:01:00.000-08:00

Today my cousin Taisia and I went to Old Town Temecula and she took some pictures of Tighe. They turned out gorgeous! Her and Jeremy, her husband started out by taking pictures of their daughter Teegan and now they are amazing photographers. Check out their blog here. Teegan is so beautiful, she makes the perfect model. And in May they are expecting a new baby, that I know is going to be just as adorable.

I am so in love with the pictures we took today. My baby boy is too cute! I just can't get enough of him.

3 months

2009-12-10T08:59:00.000-08:00

My baby boy is 3 months old already, he is learning and growing so much. It has been so much fun to watch him progress but I am getting sad that it is going by so fast. Here is what Tighe has been up to:

Loves to jump! From the time he wakes up until he goes to sleep he can't get enough.

Is a love bug, always wants to be held. I don't think he will ever crawl because I can't put him down.

Is a big pig, seriously eats non stop all day long.

Looks like a frog with his skinny legs and his big belly, I love it.

Already got his hair trimmed. Tighe has great hair he gets lots of compliments on his mohawk.

Isn't sleeping as well since Tim left. he used to cuddle up to his back every night.

Is very nosey, loves to stare and always wants to be able to see the action that is going on around him. I have no idea who he got that from.

Eats his hand and tries to stick his whole fist in his mouth.

Is a sweetheart! Gives lots of smiles and has the cutest giggle. He loves funny faces, and when Dad howls like a wolf.

Likes to sit in his bumbo and watch Dad read him books.

Still wears his 0-3 month pajamas, but is starting to fit in some of his 3-6 month clothes.

Wakes up happy everyday, when he looks at me and smiles I can't be tired and grumpy anymore.

Misses his Dad very much!

Love

2009-11-28T11:36:00.000-08:00

This boy seriously melts my heart!!!!!

Day 3

2009-11-24T22:48:00.000-08:00

Tim just called me, and he is officially in Afghanistan. I am really trying to be strong but it is so hard. On one hand having Tighe with me makes it so much easier because I have a mini Tim with me. On the other hand it makes it harder because it breaks my heart that he doesn't get to be with him and I do. And I wish Tighe could have his Daddy. No one can make him laugh like Tim. Before Tim left he video taped himself reading some of Tighe's books to him. I promised Tim that I would play them for Tighe everyday so he wouldn't forget him. I haven't been able to bring myself to watch it yet, maybe tomorrow. I miss my bestfriend!

My Hero

2009-11-22T23:43:00.000-08:00

Tim left for Afghanistan today. And as I drove away watching him from my review mirror thinking about our son in the seat behind me I stopped feeling sorry for myself and realized how lucky I was. Lucky I can stay home with my son in this beautiful country because my husband is one of the few good men who are willing to make sacrifices every day for something that they love. He loves our country and his family so much that he is willing to do whatever it takes to ensure that we will be able to have the freedom that our forefathers worked so hard to give us. The life of a marine is definitely not glamorous. The hours are long, the pay is mediocre. But the pride that comes from being a U.S. Marine is worth more than all of the fame and fortune they could ever dream of having. Tim is my Hero!

Fall

2009-11-12T11:00:00.000-08:00

I have been trying to get as many pictures as possible before Tim leaves. I am so thankful for these extra days we have had together. He should have been gone weeks ago.

Blessing Day

2009-11-06T11:27:00.000-08:00

I am so grateful for my family and friends who came to Tighe's blessing on Sunday. And I am thankful that Tim has not deployed yet and was able to give Tighe a beautiful blessing. Here are some pictures from the day.

I can't wait until Tighe gets older so that he can join in on the fun with these two. I love watching them play, they are so cute with eachother.

Nerd

2009-11-02T09:51:00.001-08:00

Does anyone need their taxes done?

Cutest Pumpkin in the Patch!

2009-10-30T13:45:00.000-07:00

Love my Pumpkin!

Just Like Dad

2009-10-30T12:58:00.001-07:00

A couple of weeks ago we visited Tim at work to spend some time with Dad. He looks so cute flying the Helicopter!

This week has been especially hard for me as I prepare for Tim to deploy. Captain David S. Mitchell from Tim's unit HMLA-367 was killed on Sunday along with 3 other Marines from HMLA-169 when they crashed in Afghanistan. I have been thinking of their families so much and have been praying for them to find some kind of comfort through this tragically hard time. I am also praying that the rest of the deployment goes well and they are all going to return home safely.

My Boys

2009-10-30T12:55:00.000-07:00

I love my boys so much! Tighe already looks so much like Tim. They are so cute together. I know that they are going to be best friends, I can't wait to see the trouble that these two get into.

Paparazzi

2009-09-19T20:33:00.001-07:00

Tighe is quite used to getting his picture taken already. He knows how to look right at the camera! My good friend Kristin took some pictures for us on his one week birthday, and they came out beautiful!

Labor Story

2009-09-18T22:40:00.000-07:00

Tighe's debut began Wednesday, September 9th around 4pm. I had been shopping with my Mom all day trying to get Tim some last minute birthday presents and coaxing the baby out of me. I had a Dr. appointment that Monday, after begging to have it moved up, and had scheduled to be induced that Friday the 11th, but still was hoping he would come on his own. When I got home from shopping I began to feel steady, but mild contractions. After timing them for a couple of hours I called Tim to tell him that I was in labor but still not ready to go to the hospital. When he got home they were still regular and uncomfortable but not unbearable so we went to dinner and he decided to get some sleep. Around 2am I woke him up and said I thought we should go to the hospital since my contractions were getting stronger. When I was admitted the nurse checked me and I was only dilated 3cm. I was so disappointed since that is where I had been at for at least a week now, and my contractions were getting VERY uncomfortable at this point. They monitored me for an hour and I still had no progress although my contractions were 2-4min apart. So I was sent home and told to come back once they were so strong I couldn't walk. I went home and Tim went back to sleep, I tried to join him but at this point my contractions were so painful I couldn't. I wanted to go back to the hospital but didn't want to get sent home again so I decided to stick it out until I couldn't bear it any more.

Finally at 11am Tim called my Dr. and told them that we had been timing my contractions all morning and they were getting closer and I was in A LOT of pain. So they advised me to go back to the hospital. I was sure that I was at least dilated to 5cm after suffering through contractions all night, but I was still at 3cm. I couldn't believe it, I immediately broke down and told the nurse that she couldn't send me home because I was dying and all though I was scheduled for an induction the next day I couldn't go through another night of this pain. So she talked to my Dr. and thank gosh they decided to admit me! They started me on Pitocin to help me progress and after several hours of that I was only at 4cm. At this point I was really starting to get discouraged, and exhausted from the hours of pain I had been through. I had really wanted to have Tighe naturally but I knew that I couldn't last much longer, and he was taking his sweet little time. So I opted to get an epidural. It helped relieve the pain in my back but I could still feel everything from my lower stomach down. Everyone kept telling me to give it time, so I did.

Then a little while later I started to get sick to my stomach and began to throw up, and get the shakes really bad, and did not have any relief from the epidural at this point. Around 8:00 pm I was checked and was only at 5cm. This was so hard fro me to hear. I was in horrible pain, and sick, and I had no end in sight. Then shortly after 8pm my water broke and things began to progress quickly. We had a little scare when Tighe's heart rate dropped and they put me on oxygen and had me lay on my side to help him. His heart rate stabilized and when they checked me at 9:00pm I was at 9 3/4 cm. All I wanted to do at this point was push. I felt so much pressure and was begging them to let me start. At 9:10 I got to start pushing and he was born at 9:47pm. It was the most amazing feeling in the world to finally hold my baby boy. And although my epidural never worked, and I had to endure hours of pain, he was absolutely worth every second of it and I would do it again in a heart beat!

Happy Birthday Daddy!

2009-09-14T15:23:00.000-07:00

Today is my wonderful husbands birthday! You are the best babe! I couldn't have got through these past couple of days without you and all of your support. You are my best friend and I know that you are Tighe's too! So happy 28th Old Man!

He's Here!

2009-09-13T13:42:00.001-07:00

Tighe John Henry Eustace
Is Here

September 10 2009

9:47pm

8lbs 11oz

20in.

Patience

2009-09-08T09:55:00.000-07:00

I took my baby ticker off because it was just another reminder that yes I am overdue! I was really hoping baby boy would be here by now but I guess he will come when he is good and ready! Tim is keeping me positive, every time I start to feel sorry for myself he makes me feel so much better, and he has been keeping me busy. We have been finishing some little things around the house to make sure everything is ready to put it up for rent. We are going to start listing it tomorrow so hopefully we find a good family that will take good care of our house. I'm actually kind of sad that after all of the work we have put into the house someone else gets to live in it. But with Tim being deployed for seven months I am going to need as much help as I can get so I am going to move in with my mom until he gets home. And I am really excited about that, it's going to be fun to live family again. I'm so lucky that I have such an amazing mom, I know that I can ask her for anything.

Progress

2009-09-03T10:45:00.000-07:00

I went to the Dr. this morning and I am 2 almost 3cm dilated!!! She said that I could stay like this for a week but she doesn't think I will since I made so much progress from being completely closed last week. So everyone keep their fingers crossed that little Tighe wants to come out! Maybe the bribes are working.

Baby Boys Room

2009-09-01T10:28:00.000-07:00

I have had so much fun putting Tighe's room together. We have done a lot! Tim and I painted the room and replaced the carpet. Then we were so excited when that was done we went out and bought his crib and dresser and put them together that same night. Next my mom and I painted the camo star on the wall, which I love!!!! And little by little we added more stuff, like the vinyl lettering, and his name above the crib. I wanted to incorporate all of the marine corps values in his room, and we happened to find the Honor and Courage in the vinyl, and I painted Commitment so that we had all three. Last Tim hung the shelf and added the last decorations on it. His room is my favorite room in the house. I love going in there and looking at everything hoping he will come soon. We are getting very anxious for his arrival. Tim has been nesting haha, so our entire house is clean and organized. Now all we need is the boy! I have 6 more days until my due date so hopefully he decides to come before and not after!

Baby Shower's

2009-08-21T09:27:00.001-07:00

I had such a wonderful baby shower at my grandparents house! My family worked so hard on making every detail perfect. I want to send a special thank you to my Mom. She is so amazing, I can't imagine what I would ever do without her. It was so great to see how much Tighe is already loved. Everyone spoiled him! He got so much cute stuff I can't wait to put it all to use. It still is crazy for me to think that in just a few short weeks I am going to have a baby. I am so lucky, I have had such an easy pregnancy. I was sick in the beginning but other then that I haven't been too uncomfortable. And it has gone by so fast! I am getting so anxious for him to get here, it seems like this last week has been the longest yet.

I love watching Teegan and Trent play together, and soon Tighe will get to join in. I am so blessed to have such a wonderful family. I love that we are so close. I hope that having our kids so close together will only ensure that we will stay close forever. Cheesy I know but I mean it, my cousins have always been more like siblings to me. And I love how close my Mom and my Aunt have always been. I know that some of us are spread out around the country and some are even further then that but every time we get together it's like we were never apart.

I am so sad that I don't have any pictures from my second baby shower but it was so much fun. A sister from my ward was so nice to host it at her beautiful home. It was overwhelming to see how many people came to show there love and support. Everyone was so giving! This shower really showed me that I have so much support in our ward, I hope that I can show the same love that they have shown to me. This also in a way helped calm some of my nerves about Tim's deployment. Because I know that when he is gone I have so many people that will be there to help me with anything I may need during this hard time.

I'm not going to lie when I had to take all of the gifts home from my showers I almost had a heart attack. There was so much to wash, and hang, and put together. But thank gosh my mom came over the next day and helped me with everything. Otherwise I probably would have just shut the door to Tighe's room hoping that the next time I opened it, it would all be put away. And Tim set up the swing, bouncer, pack 'n play, stroller and car seat. It is so nice having such a handy husband!

My Mom put these center pieces together. They were perfect, I loved them!

Here are the tables set up. Everything looked beautiful!

Our first attempt at cake pops. I think they turned out so cute, and were very yummy! They did take a lot of work though.

I loved my banner that my mom made. Taisia made a bunch of these onesies on it. They are adorable, I have never seen anything so cute!

Taisia, Me, and Tiff. Loves these Gorgeous girls!

Picture with the two Hot Blonde's!

My cute Sissy! How does she always know how to pose?

Taisia made me this beautiful Quilt. She is amazing!

New York Minute

2009-08-15T18:11:00.000-07:00

Let me just say it's a freakin' miracle I didn't have this baby in New York with all of the running around we did. It started out with our connection from Chicago to LaGuardia being delayed due to the fact that a man at LaGuardia decided to pack some explosives and shut down the airport by threatening them with a bomb. We finally arrived to LaGuardia around 11:30pm expecting to just catch a cab and head to our hotel, which we booked due to the recommendation in our wedding invitation. But when we got in the cab and gave him our hotels address he advised us it was going to cost us $110.00 to get there. Tim and I immediately decided that was outrageous and thought that we would rather rent a car for the weekend since the hotel was obviously a lot further than we anticipated. But when we went back into the airport to rent a car NOTHING was available.

At this point we didn't know what to do. I was exhausted and uncomfortable after flying all day 35 weeks pregnant, but I wanted to be a trooper for Tim so I sucked it up and started to think of alternatives. I decided to ask a man in the airport if he knew of the best way to get to White Plains, which is where our hotel was. He ended up being a huge help and told us that we could take the bus from the airport to the metro station and take the metro to White Plains and it would only cost us about $20.00 for the two of us. So we grabbed all of our luggage and got on the bus. The only scary part was when we got to the metro station in Harlem. I normally wouldn't have been as paranoid but it was about 2:00am by this point, and I am VERY pregnant and carrying my cute Kathy Van Zeeland luggage. It ended up fine and we got on the metro and arrived in White Plains where we took a cab to our hotel. Finally after hours of traveling we arrived at our hotel around 3:00am. Only to have to get up by 8:00am to start getting ready for the wedding. But all of it was worth it.

The wedding was amazing! The reception started at 6:00pm and ended at 12:00am. These New Yorkers really know how to throw a party. There was more food there than I have ever seen in my life. The center pieces were gorgeous, not to mention the millions of dessert options and ice sculptures. I tried to last the whole night and almost made it, but around 11:30pm I decided to turn in. I wanted Tim to be able to stay and hang out with his friends since they so rarely all get together anymore, so he stayed and had a blast. I'm so mad we forgot to bring our camera to the wedding but our friends took lots of pictures so hopefully I will get some soon.

We decided to go to Manhattan the next day and spend the night there. We walked so much around the city I thought my feet were going to fall off, thank gosh they didn't. We met up with everyone that night and ate at a French Bistro which was really good, although Tim and I shared because we had been snacking on street vendor food all day and by that time we weren't that hungry.

I was able to talk Tim into taking me to Canal st before we left on Monday and I got a new purse for only $30.00, I am pretty much obsessed with it. Overall the trip was crazy and hectic but I am so glad I ended up going with Tim. I love his friends, we always have so much fun when we get together. And I know it meant a lot to Tim to see Sean get married.

The Big Apple

2009-07-14T16:23:00.000-07:00

One of Tim's good friends that he served with is getting married in New York, August 1. At first I wasn't going to go with him to the wedding, I thought their was no way that I could survive that long of a flight when I will be 35 weeks pregnant. But I didn't want to be away from Tim. I'm not needy, I just want as much time with him as possible before he leaves to Afghanistan. So I decided I am going to man up and go with him. I'm sure I will be really cute out on the dance floor about to POP.

Del Mar

2009-07-10T11:20:00.000-07:00

Tim was nice enough to rent us a cottage on base. Unfortunately it was really bad timing for him and he ended up having to work every day we were there. Which wouldn't have been so bad normally but it was a crazy week and he was gone from about 2pm until 7am, and then slept until he had to get up again. The cottage was nice, a little snug but nice. Tim thought he rented a two bedroom but when we got there it was only one, so my mom, sister and my sisters friend all had to sleep on the pull out couch together, while one of my sisters other friends slept on the floor. We had a great time, it really went by too fast. Kristen came and hung out with us one day and was nice enough to take a few pictures for us. And on our last day there my Aunt Tricia, Tatum, Taisia, and Teegan came to play. We went shopping, heard the news about Michael Jackson, climbed the jetty looking for star fish, worked on a puzzle, and had a bonfire where we made charbroiled cinnamon rolls, haha. Next year we want to rent a couple of cabins so everyone can stay. It should be fun with all the little Bebe's running around!

Pregnancy Pics

2009-06-30T18:38:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago we took some maternity pictures. It was very hard to find the motivation to have our pictures taken since I have been feeling huge these days. But Tim surprisingly really wanted to have them done, and Kristen who is one of my best friends is an amazing photographer so I couldn't pass up the opportunity. Now that they are over with I am really glad we took them. Here are a few of my favorites.

Date Night

2009-06-30T17:18:00.000-07:00

Every Friday Tim and I go on a date. With Tim working like crazy and preparing for the baby and his deployment we haven't had much time together. But I can always count on being with him on Friday night. So on our last date we decided to turn the jeep into our own personal movie theatre and went to a look out to watch a movie on our laptop. While we were watching the movie a police officer came up to our window and asked us if we were over 18. Tim made sure to emphasize the fact that we were definitely over 18, haha. I love spending time with my husband!

Baby Update

2009-05-27T18:01:00.000-07:00

We have made lots of progress this week with the baby. We picked out a name, bought his bedding set, crib, and dresser. We also painted his room and replaced the carpet. We got so excited when the bedding came that we went and bought his crib and dresser and stayed up until 2 am Sunday setting it up.

Tim and I have been debating about our babies names since we were dating. I wanted to stay with my families tradition of T names and Tim already had names picked out that he liked. But after time he realized how important it was for me to stay with the tradition and we began to pick out names that started with T that we both liked. When we found out it was a boy we had 3 names that we were trying to decide between. We kept going back and forth and I was beginning to think that this little boy was never going to have a name. Then last week he woke me up in the middle of the night holding our Book of 1,000 Baby Names. He said that he hadn't been able to sleep and he had started reading the book and he found a name that he really liked. He didn't want to show me it at first because he was nervous that I wouldn't like it, so he started telling me how it was Irish which was really important to him. Then he gave me the book and I loved it! So our little boy is going to be named........

Tighe John-Henry

I think it is perfect. The name Tighe (pronounced Ty) is Irish, and is a variant of the name Timothy. We are using my dad's full name John-Henry as his middle name. I know that my dad would be so proud to have his grandson named after him.

Here is the picture of the bedding set we bought. It is not his room but I am too lazy to charge my camera and take a picture so I will have to post that later.

Mother's Day

2009-05-20T15:30:00.000-07:00

I know this is late but I couldn't go without posting about my mom and how grateful I am for her. So here are 27 reasons (one fore every year of my life) why she is the best mom, and my best friend.

1. She has amazing style, and she still dresses me.

2. She never gives up on anything she does.

3. She would literally give you the shirt off of her back if you told her you liked it.

4. She is a great interior decorator.

5. She has been my shoulder to cry on, more times than I can count.

6. She is such a hard worker, she even mowed my lawn when Tim was in Yuma.

7. She is the most creative person I know.

8. I can ask her for ANYTHING, and she never makes me feel like I am asking for too much.

9. She is a great mother in law, sometimes I think Tim would leave me and marry her.

10. She inspires me to be a better wife.

11. She is beautiful inside and out.

12. We are best friends, I love hanging out with her.

13. She is amazing at scrap booking, and she has already made me one for the baby.

14. She can crochet, I'm telling you there is nothing this woman can't do.

15. She is beyond strong, she has been through so much and has never felt sorry for herself.

16. She is the best present wrapper, now I can't give a gift unless I wrap it nicely.

17. She is a bargain shopper and helped me find my love for Ross.

18. She loves giving gifts, and is horrible at keeping surprises.

19. She spoils me, almost every time I go to her house she has something new she got for me.

20. Her house is always clean, which makes me feel guilty when mine isn't.

21. She loves making crafts, I wish I did.

22. She is so excited to be a grandma, we are going to have so much fun with this little boy.

23. Every year she gives me, my brother, and sister a gift to commemorate my dad.

24. She makes the bomb home made macaroni and cheese.

25. She can still take me down, even though I am 5 inches taller than her.

26. She supports me and trusts me in all of my decisions.

27. She never says goodbye without telling me she loves me.

I love my mom so much, I only hope that I can be 1/2 as great as she is.

I had a great mother's day. Tim spoiled me as usual with the best gift I could have ever imagined. Although I must admit he gave it to me early, on the day he came home from Yuma because he couldn't wait. When I got home from school he gave me this.

He got me a beautiful charm bracelet with a heart charm that has

IT'S A BOY!

engraved on it. As soon as he gave it to me I broke down into tears. I am so excited to be a mom!

Birthday Fun!

2009-04-27T11:10:00.000-07:00

I am getting old but I still love my birthday. I went to Yuma to spend it with Tim and he made sure that I knew how old I was, little brat. I woke up to our room being decorated with all kinds of birthday stuff, and an Easter egg hunt, since my birthday landed on Easter this year. Then later he brought me cake with all of the candles, plus one for good luck. And he told me I was lucky the Fire Marshall didn't come with all of the smoke from my many candles. He spoiled me so much for my special day he even took me to Mexican food for lunch the day before, and Red Lobster for dinner. Plus on Monday I got to go on a shopping spree at the Beauty Supply Store and I got lots of fun toys. I love my husband, he always makes sure he shows me how special I am to him!

Ultrasound Surprise!

2009-04-21T18:11:00.000-07:00

I had my 20 week ultrasound this week, and it was full of surprises. First Tim surprised me by driving home to go to the appointment with me. He came to my school and as I was coming out of the bathroom one of the girls told me there was someone there to see me. So I looked up front and my jaw literally hit the floor. I was so happy and shocked I didn't know what to think.

On Monday morning we went to my ultrasound, and found out ........

He is so stinkin cute!

My Baby Boy has his Daddy's nose!

We are still in shock. When we went to our 16week Dr. appointment the Dr. told us is looked like we were having a girl so we were not expecting this. We have been apologizing to our little man non stop for all of the times we called him a girl, and for all of the girl clothes we were planning on dressing him in.

We are so excited for this little boy! I guess I need to start getting ready for hockey games!

Bean Town

2009-04-02T19:54:00.000-07:00

Boston was a blast!! It was so nice to have a vacation that wasn't packed with too many activities. We were able to stay up late and sleep in.

We stayed with Tim's brother Kevin and his Fiance who I love so much. We had so much fun playing the card game bull$@&#, I haven't laughed that much in so long.

Denise and I went shopping while the boys went snowboarding and I got the cutest maternity jeans. They are fake True Religions, and Buffalo, I'm so excited to get to wear them.

One of my favorite days was when Tim and I went to the Boston Aquarium and Ice skated at the Boston Common. It was freezing but definitely worth it. I have to mention that we got the baby the cutest Red Sox onesie and a bib that says "Little Green Monstah". They are so cute, I can't wait to see the little babe in them.

We were both happy to get to spend time with his family and a couple of his very close friends that I love. We already miss them and are counting down the days until they come out in October.

We went ice skating outside at the Boston Common. I love watching Tim skate, he is amazing. And trust me he loves to show off.

Tim and I went to the aquarium in Boston. They let us in free because they were closing in 20min but we still were able to see a lot.

I asked for a picture with the penguins behind us, and they did a great job capturing them in the photo.

We drove down to Nantucket to see where Kevin and Denise want to get married next year. It is beautiful there. I can't wait until next Summer.

Tim's family came over and Denise made dinner for all of us. It was so much fun hanging out with everyone. We missed his sister and her family that night but we were able to drive to visit them later in the week.

I love this picture because we are all looking in different directions and doing our own thing, it cracks me up.

Why the heck is there so much space in between here? Oh well, i don't have the patience to fix it, So sorry.

Family

2009-03-24T18:40:00.000-07:00

My cute little hubby is gone for six weeks in Yuma, AZ. I'm so sad without him it's pathetic. So in effort, I want to make up for my absence and spend as much time with my family as possible. I have missed so much with little Teegan and Trent it kills me. I think of them every day. If you are reading this Tais, I love you and I am going to call you so that I can come visit you this week. I know your B-day is Saturday but I am saving your B-day post for then. I love my family so much, it has been so hard adjusting to everyone's new busy lives. I hope they all kow that even though I don't get to see them as much as I wish I could I love them all more than I could ever say.

St. Patricks Day

2009-03-24T18:20:00.000-07:00

So my husband is Irish and he loves St. Patricks day. When he was little his mom would dress him up like a little leprechaun for the holiday, we have a picture of it and it is the cutest thing ever. So since he is going to be gone for a lot of the holidays this year I decided I wanted to make St. Patricks day fun.

I searched for Irish recipes and decided to make Corned Beef Sandwiches, it sounded easy enough. But when I started to read the recipe I saw that you were supposed to slow cook the meat in beer. I know its not a big deal because the alcohol dissolves when it is boiled but for some reason I was really embarrassed to buy beer. My mom came to the store with me and I bought the beer and some O'douls for Tim so that he could drink green beer which is one of the fun traditions. I was freaking out the whole time at the store and I must have jinxed myself.

When I got home and was unpacking my beer and I heard someone calling my name, I looked up and it was my good friend from church Mindi. I had Tutu outside with me and of course she wanted to go into the street to see Mindi and I was trying to stop her so I set down my beer, and Mindi being the sweet heart that she is offered to help me carry in my groceries. And of course I was dying, because here I am pregnant carrying my two bags of beer. So I explain the situation to her which at this point is just hilarious to me. When I got in the house I called my mom and she thought the whole thing was hysterical. But I guess it was all worth it cause my husband loved his dinner and he got a laugh out of it too.

Trot Trot to Boston

2009-03-05T16:08:00.000-08:00

We are off to the East coast to visit the fam. I am just bummed Jessica and Tyler aren't there yet. But I am super excited to get away and have a little time the Hubs. We will be back on the 17th and we have a Dr. appointment on the 18th to find out the sex of the baby so we will have lots of exciting updates when we get back.

Baby Eustace

2009-02-25T17:45:00.000-08:00

I had my first doctors appointment a few weeks ago and I got pictures of my little bebe. And of course my baby is already fat. My due date is September 7 but the baby is measuring big so they might change my due date to September 2. It was amazing to see my little one moving around, I can't even put into words how I felt at that moment. Tim had to work so I had to go by myself. I couldn't wait to show him the ultrasound pictures, so that he could see how cute our baby already is, haha. At our next appointment we are going to find out the sex. So we should know in the next couple of weeks, and I can't wait. At first I thought I wanted a girl, but now I honestly don't have a preference. And I really don't have a feeling one way or the other so I am getting very anxious to find out.

Valentine Surprise

2009-02-16T17:31:00.001-08:00

I just need to brag for a minute about my husband. He can be so romantic and thoughtful. On Friday he showed up to my school with a dozen red roses and chocolate. I was so happy to see him there, I love showing him off, I just think he is so handsome. While he was at my school he told me to clear all of my plans that I had for Saturday because he had the day planned for us. I felt so bad because I hadn't put any thought into Valentine's day and he had already done so much for me. I made sure I went shopping after school and got him lots of stuff. On Saturday morning we woke up and watched Serendipity which was such a fun way to start the day. Next we went out for a late breakfast. Then he told me that I needed to go home and get ready because he made dinner reservations, and that I needed to dress up. I can honestly say that I was completely surprised. I had no clue what he had planned. While I was getting ready Tim cleaned out my car and took it to get it washed. This may not seem like a big deal, but for those of you who have been in my car you know what a big task this was. It looks like I live out of my car, I am so bad at keeping it clean. Then we headed down to San Diego. At first he had me convinced that we were going to dinner at Ruth's Chris steak house and that we were going to go dancing after. I was very happy with that because I love steak. But then we kept walking towards the Hornblower dinner cruise boat, and that is when he looked at me and said Happy Valentine's Day! I was so excited, I have always wanted to go on a dinner cruise. And it was amazing, the entire set up was perfect. We had a romantic table for two, topped with rose petals and chocolates. We were served a delicious four course meal and spent the rest of the night dancing our booties off. I didn't think that I was going to be able to stay awake the entire cruise because I have been so tired lately but we danced until it was over and had so much fun. I love my husband, and everything he does for me, I couldn't have asked for a better Valentine's weekend.

I could sleep for a week

2009-01-30T22:35:00.000-08:00

This week has been so hard for me. I don't want to whine and complain, I just want to express how tired I am. Being pregnant makes you feel like you weigh 5, 000lbs and everything I go to do takes all of my energy.

I started school last week so I have been working all day and going to school right after, I don't get home until after 10pm. And on top of work and school, I have been so sick these couple of weeks. Who ever named it morning sickness is a liar. This sickness lasts all morning, day, and night.

And I miss my husband, he started a martial arts instructor course at work and it has been kicking his butt. He said its the hardest thing he has ever done in the Marine core. So since he has been working out so hard he is exhausted and is asleep by the time I get home from school.

I feel like such a baby right now but I am to the point where I am so tired all I want to do is cry. And trust me I am not good without my sleep. Tiffany and Taisia can vouch for me on here, unfortunately they know that I am not so sweet when I don't get my beauty sleep, haha.

On the bright side, I love school. I am having so much fun. All of the girls in my class are really nice and have made me feel so welcome. I know that all of this will be worth it once the baby is here and I am done with school, I just needed to feel sorry for my self for a minute. But thank gosh this is my last week at work and I am switching to days at school next week, I can't take much more.

Back to School

2009-01-14T17:42:00.000-08:00

On Monday I am going back to school!! Finally I sucked it up and committed to going back. Hopefully I will be able to get as many hours in as possible before the baby is born. It is going to be tough at first considering I will be working from 8AM-4:30PM M-F and then I will have class from 5pm-10pm M-F. I really hope I can keep up this schedule considering ever since I got pregnant all I want to do is sleep. But it shouldn't be for too long, once we settle a few things I should be able to go during the day. And Tim has offered to step it up and is going to take care of Tutu and all of the things around the house, aaawww he is so cute.

My cousin Tatum, and my good friend Brooke are starting with me. We are going to have a blast together, I love those girls. So if anyone is brave enough to have me do their hair call me.

Baby Time

2009-01-12T17:30:00.000-08:00

Yep, WERE HAVING A BABY!

I took the first test on Dec. 30, while I was on my lunch break. Tim and I had been trying to get pregnant since we got married, but I didn't think it would come this fast or easily. My period is always on time, always, so when I didn't start that morning I began to get a little suspicious. I decided that I would just go take a test so that I wouldn't have to sit there and wonder if it was coming or not, even though I still didn't think I was pregnant I wanted to be sure. Almost instantly after taking the test I knew. I was shocked, freaking out, and really excited. I knew I wanted to surprise Tim so I went home early from work and started to think of what I wanted to do. First I wanted to go tell my mom so she could help me. I called her to see if she was home so that I could surprise her, but my mom knows me too well and she instantly knew something was going on. She kept asking me what was wrong and I kept telling her nothing, finally I just blurted it out and told her that I was pregnant. I think she was just as shocked as I was and didn't know what to say.

I went shopping and got a girl outfit and a boy outfit each with a bib that says I Love Daddy. I also got a teddy bear, and a stuffed pink elephant. My mom brought over a baby blanket that she had made and some other cute things to put in the bag. I wanted to get pink and blue balloons to put all over the house but Tim came home from work early and I didn't have time.

When he got home I gave him the bag and as he started pulling things out he kept looking at me saying, "what does this mean?" He kept asking it over and over again. Finally I handed him the test and he still couldn't believe it. He looked at me and said "but your not even late." And then he kept going on and on about how the test could be wrong. I kept telling him that it wasn't wrong and I was really pregnant. Later that night he made me take a second test so that he could be sure.

I think it is still settling in but we are so happy. We are trying to take every ones advice and enjoy the last few months we have of just the two of us. Tim is going to be an amazing father. We thank our Heavenly Father every day for this blessing, and I pray that I can be half of the mom that my mom has been to me.

So my due date that we calculated is September 8. I am not looking forward to the summer heat being 9 months pregnant. So if you are looking for me around August I'm sure you will find me lying in my air conditioned house cursing at my husband about how he did this to me, haha j/k but really.

The Big Announcement

2009-01-09T18:24:00.000-08:00

Looks like were gonna need this

And lots of these

Cause were expecting this

And yes my boobs are Huge!

Christmas Story

2008-12-31T13:45:00.000-08:00

Our first Tree

Christmas this year was wonderful. We went to my moms on Christmas Eve, ate dinner, opened a few presents and went to look at Christmas lights. We promised my little sister we would be over early the morning but we over slept. We were all spoiled as usual. My mom got Tim and I a blu-ray which he was stoked about since we just got a new 42' T.V. a few weeks ago. She also got us a bunch of clothes, decorations for the house, I got a sewing machine, Tim got a remote control helicopter which I can't get him to put down, and lots more. My mom goes shopping every day for months before Christmas, the lady is crazy. Tim got me brown UGGS, pajamas, matching duffel bag to my luggage, and my mom got me the carry on bag, a couple beanies, DVD's, a robe, and he got himself a season pass to Disneyland since I already have one and we haven't been together. I got him a saw, I know fun right but he wanted it, clothes, beanies, pajamas, shoes, and an I.O.U. with a bicycle ornament, it was the best I could do since they were out of the bike he wanted.

After we watched A Christmas Story we went up to my Grandparents for dinner, I got to play with the babes and hang out with the fam which I love. Tim and I ended the night with his Christmas tradition and went to the movies. We saw Marley and Me, and I bawled my eyes out the entire end of the movie, it touched a little too close to home but I loved it. The next day I was so tired I didn't leave the house. Which was another one of my Christmas presents from Tim. It was nice to just relax and enjoy each other.

Overall I don't think the holiday could have been any better, except with a few friends and family members back east that were missed very much. Which reminds me, my brother in-law got engaged last week to the most awesome girl ever!!! I love Denise so much and I am so excited that we are going to be sister's. I miss them both and can't wait to see them soon. Congratulations guys, you're the best!-----RANDY-------haha

Ugly Christmas Sweater Party

2008-12-31T13:30:00.000-08:00

We went back to our youth at the singles branch Christmas party. To hang out with these people.

And wear these!

Thanks for the fun guys. Love ya.

I am in LOVE!!!

2008-12-19T17:23:00.000-08:00

So here is my Christmas gift to you. Seriously could they be any cuter? Come on now, don't you just want to eat them?

You're Welcome!

Christmas Cheer

2008-12-16T06:41:00.000-08:00

On Sunday we went to a park close to our house to take some family Christmas pictures. I think they turned out pretty cute considering all we did was set up the tri-pod and the timer.

Knott's

2008-12-15T07:01:00.000-08:00

About a month ago Tim and I went to Knott's Berry Farm. We got in free because they were honoring people in the military for the month, free is always good. We had so much fun and decided to end the day on the Perilous Plunge. We were drenched and literally looked like we jumped in a pool fully clothed. And of course our camera died so I couldn't get a picture of it.

Tutu goes to the doctor

2008-12-11T07:27:00.000-08:00

Princess

My poor baby girl had a cherry eye. This is when the gland for the dog's third eye lid comes out from its normal position under the eye lid and swells, looking like a cherry. I felt so bad for her, the vet said she wasn't in any pain and it was mostly cosmetic. She was acting like herself so at first I wasn't too worried. Tim insisted that he wanted to try to fix it. Why do men feel like they can do anything? Thankfully after he looked at it he realized it was showing signs of infection and he probably shouldn't try.

There is a bulldog expert in Riverside, which is actually where she was born. People travel from all over to see him, so I was relieved to know that she was going to be in good hands. When we got there Tutu started freaking out over all of the other dogs that were there. She LOVES dogs! Thankfully my mom came with me for moral support cause I was a wreck when I had to leave her there. As soon as the doctor took her I lost it. I love that little girl so much and I was so scared that something would go wrong. But thankfully it all went perfect. The veterinarian assistants were complimenting me on how beautiful she was and they said that she was really funny, she even had the doctor laughing. I swear she has so much personality, she cracks me up.

They told me that she was going to be really sleepy because of the anaesthesia and would probably just want to sleep all night. Tutu sleep? That would be a miracle. The ride home she was really tired and she hardly moved. When we got home I had her lay on the bed with Tim and I which was a big treat for her. We had planned on working on the house but Tim was exhausted and I just wanted to be with her so we decided to just relax and hang out. Tutu was so cute she was so tired she could hardly move but she refused to lay down and go to sleep. She just sat up on her butt like a little person and would whine if I stopped petting her. Finally I decided that she wasn't going to let herself sleep when she was with us so I put her in her crate. A few hours later I got her out and she was completely back to herself. She was crazy, running and jumping and biting. I was nervous she was playing too rough and something was going to happen to her eye. But I was so happy to see that she was feeling better. I am so thankful for my little family!

Thank you Dr. Butchko!!!!!

Wicked

2008-12-09T17:46:00.000-08:00

So the secret is out My husband is a Wicked fan. Yes the big bad marine enjoyed watching Glinda and Elphaba so much last year that he is taking me again!!!!! Wicked is leaving Los Angeles in January so if you haven't seen it yet you need to get on that A.S.A.P. Honestly it is amazing. We saw The Little Mermaid on Broadway when we got engaged and it didn't even come close to Wicked. Last year I had to not so subtly hint that I wanted tickets for Christmas, and dragging Tim behind me we went. But he loved it so this year I didn't even have to ask. I can't wait, I have already busted out the soundtrack and have been singing non stop, much to the pleasure of those that I work with, haha. Don't be jealous.

Please don't mind our whiteness its winter, we try.

He's here

2008-12-04T17:02:00.000-08:00

Trent is here!!!! Trent Scott Lux was born on Monday, December 1, 2008. He is adorable, now the pressure is on for Tim and I. How are we supposed to compete with babies like Teegan and Trent? He has a ton of hair and the tips are blond. I guess when Tonya was born she had the same thing and all of the nurses would call her Frosty, since her tips were frosted. He is already so loved, you should have seen the crowd that lined up to meet him. My Aunt Tricia had on her Grammy shirt, Taisia and Tatum had on their Auntie shirts, and Teegan had on her cousin shirt! They were so cute. I love being so close with my cousins, they are absolutely my best friends and I know that Teegan and Trent, along with many more to come are going to share the same friendships. I am so happy that I can be apart of their lives and watch them grow. I cant wait to have some of my own so that I can be a part of the fun. Here is the little stud!!! Congrats Tonya and Ryan!

Madre

2008-11-26T07:19:00.000-08:00

Today is my mom's b-day! And I just want to give a shout out to her to let her know that she is my best friend, and the coolest, most talented person I know! Honestly I wonder how I am even her daughter because this woman can do ANYTHING!!!!. I can never thank her enough for all of her love and guidance, she has helped me through some very tough patches and has never judged me for any of my mistakes.

After my dad passed away she wanted to do something special for me, Taylor and Travis for Christmas. She wanted to incorporate my dad but not make it sad. She eventually came up with the idea of a memory quilt out of my dad's clothes and pictures. They are amazing!!! I absolutely love my quilt, it is made out of some of my dad's shirts that hold so many memories of him and I together. She has recently posted her memory quilts on etsy in hopes to help people who have lost a loved one. When my mom approached me with the idea of selling them she told me that out off all the things that she makes these quilts were the thing that she wanted to sell the most because of the opportunity they bring to help those that have lost someone special to them. She said that ever since she made ours she has always felt that my dad was telling her that these quilts were a way for her to be able to help herself and others. They are so unique, and they offer the chance to save some of the things that are so hard to let go of when you lose someone.

I am so thankful that I am her daughter. I hope that I can continue to grow to be more like her. Tim is always raving about my mom, and is constantly requesting to go hang out over at her house. How lucky am I to have a husband who wants to hang out with his mother in law? But who wouldn't want to hang out with her? She is the BOMB!!!!!

Lub you Madre

Honeymoon

2008-11-19T07:09:00.000-08:00

So I am finally going to post some pictures from our Honeymoon. We went on a 7 night cruise to Mexico. Originally I thought we were going to just drive up the coast and spend a couple of days in San Fransisco because I didn't know how much time we had before Tim had to swear in. But he surprised me with the cruise and it was a blast.

My seal friend

Our first stop was Puerto Vallarta where we went zip lining in the rain forest. It was amazing, and so much fun. Our guides were hilarious, they were making us laugh the entire time. I wasn't even nervous, since I went bungee jumping earlier this year I figured this was easy compared to that.

Getting ready to go zip lining

My sweaty husband, yes thank you!

Our next stop was Cabo, we went there early since the hurricane was coming and we skipped over Mazatlan. We went swimming with Dolphins in Cabo and it was my favorite part of the cruise. We were in a large pool with about 5 different Dolphins. We were split into groups of 8 and each group spent time with their own Dolphin. Tim cracked me up cause when he was riding the Dolphin he held onto the fin with one arm and was flexing the other. I was so embarrassed by his cheesiness.

Our last stop was Ensenada, which was a lot cleaner than I was expecting. We had a good time walking around and shopping here. Tim didn't want to eat because he got sick the day after we left Cabo and we were quarantined to our room for 24 hours by the infirmary. It was kind of boring but I just read and watched T.V. The only thing that was making me mad was that we couldn't order movies from our room cause something wasn't working. I must have called for help 20 times but never got it fixed. When we went to order room service they said the only thing Tim could get was crackers and rice so I had to sneak him food back to the room and I looked ridiculous carrying 5 plates of food and dessert.

On the bus in Ensenada

Our boat

We had so much fun on our cruise, but 7 nights of being trapped on a boat was kind of long. I think next time 5 would be enough unless we had friends with us. Not that I don't love my husband but he was the reason i got trapped in my room for 24 hours and I had no one to play with while he was sick. And everyone who knows me knows that I have major A.D.D. and when it kicks in I am a huge bug, and love to pester if I am bored. And yes Tim did threaten to divorce me several times through out our honeymoon because of this haha.

Pictures are from the beginning to the end of the cruise, or in order of tans

Formal night

Why I married him

Ready to go home

Tutu

2008-11-13T07:30:00.000-08:00

Tim got me a puppy!!!! She is too cute which is why we named her Tutu. Of course it had to be a T name to stick with the T family tradition, haha. We originally named her Talula but my family said they didn't want me to waste that name on a puppy cause they like it for a baby. So Tim said if we named her Tutu I could take pictures of her in a Tutu and that sealed the deal for me. I love her, except for the fact that she has kept us up for the past week. I am so tired! We have her blocked off in our bathroom because our roommate has a pit bull who is an awesome dog but I cant take any chances with Tiny, he could swallow her whole in one bite. We are living with them while we are waiting for Tim's new orders so things are kind of crazy right now. Anyways, she wakes up and cries and cries until you hold her so I have had to get up several times to keep her company so that Tim can get some sleep. Last night I had finally had it, Tim has a no dog in the bed rule but I was exhausted. Tim put her in a laundry basket next to me on the floor but she still wasn't happy, so I put her in bed with me. She actually slept on my pillow all night. What a spoiled brat she is already insisting to sleep on a satin pillow, haha. I told her she is lucky that she is cute otherwise she would be out on the streets. I had no idea how much work it is to have a puppy. I have always had dogs growing up but my Mom and Dad did all the work. I am seriously contemplating whether or not I want to have kids after this experience, j/k. She is worth the sleepless nights and the 100 times a day I have to clean up her poop. She really is a good girl, she loves to sleep and cuddle. I am so thankful for her. My husband is the best, he knew how bad I wanted an English Bulldog and even though he is not even a dog person he got her for me. I love my little family!!!!!

Bebe Tutu!

Look at those rolls!

Tutu's in jail, cause Daddy's mean!

I have lost it!!!!

2008-11-04T17:08:00.000-08:00

I am so frustrated!!!!!! I got my new license in the mail yesterday. So this morning as I was running out the door to work I grabbed it and put it in my back pocket. Now it is gone. I don't know where it could be. I searched my car and looked around the house and it is nowhere to be found. How is that possible? I didn't go anywhere in between the house and work so how could it have just disappeared? The only thing I can think of is that when I went to the bathroom it fell out of my back pocket and I accidentally flushed it. It sounds crazy but where else could it have gone? Sometimes I swear I am going crazy. Now I have to pay $22.00 for a new license when I didn't even have my other one for 24 hours. It may seem small but for some reason I am so mad about it, probably because Tim keeps insisting it's not lost when it obviously is. Maybe now that I have got mad at him and told him it's lost I will find it and have to apologize and say he was right. Now I don't want to find it so I don't have to admit that. See either way it's a lose-lose situation.

*Here's an update on the missing license: Tim managed not only to find it but he also found my old license that was missing. And he didn't even rub it in too much. Love you babe!!!

Socialist Halloween

2008-10-29T19:29:00.000-07:00

I stole this from a blog, i thought it was hilarious!!!

Happy Birthday Dad!

2008-10-23T16:45:00.000-07:00

Today has been hard on me. Today my dad would have turned 51. My Dad was so much fun, he would make me laugh until my stomach hurt. He was the type of Dad who would always make my friends feel welcome. I was his princess who could do no wrong. Tim gets mad at him sometimes for that now because I still think it applies to me haha. He taught me to be caring, loving, and compassionate. We would call him a Wackadoo magnet because he couldn't be mean to anyone so the crazy's would love him. Sometimes I feel guilty that I got 22 years with my Dad and my brother only got 14 and my sister only got 9.

I wish Tim could have met him. He reminds me so much of my Dad. They both can/could build anything!! And they both served in the Marines. They both are/were perfectionists. Tim even looks like my Dad. When I first met Tim I looked down at his hands and my heart stopped, he has the exact same hands as my Dad, freckles and all. My Dad had a brain aneurysm and was unconscious for several days. During that time I would sit on his hospital bed and hold his hands and just talk to him. Now when I look at Tim's hands it always brings me back to those last words I spoke to my Dad. He was so handsome, he had gone golfing with my brother the day of his aneurysm so he had a nice tan and all of the nurses would comment on how good he looked. Those last couple of days were such a roller coaster. But when we were faced with the decision to donate his organs we knew what my Dad would want. We were able to donate his kidneys, liver, and heart valves, he saved several lives!!! I miss my Dad everyday.

But Today I am also looking towards the future. Tim was swore into the Marine Corps for another four years. The next several years are going to be hard at times but I think Tim staying in the Marines was the best decision for our family. Tim loves his job and I will support him in it 100%.

Happy Birthday Daddy!