What a year!

This year has changed my life dramatically! Even four years ago, I never thought this is where God would have me. I married my prince in September 2010, had our first son in August 2011, found out we were expecting our second September 2012.... And became a family of four with our second son on May 6th.  

Quin weighed an awesome 9 lbs 11 oz! For some reason, my body makes giant babies. Cayden was 8 lbs 13 oz... But now he's barely on the charts. He's holding steady to the 8th percentile for weight for his age and height. So I joke that I make giant babies and really tiny children.  Making big babies makes sense for parents who are short and stocky, but when they turn into tiny toddlers, I wonder what happened. Oh well. We will find out later if my kiddos grow into their "stocky" genes.

Having big babies definitely took a toll on my body.  So much so that Jared and I have called it quits on having more children.  I have medically shut down the baby making factory. Both Cayden and Quin had to be born via c-section because of their size.  The doctor referred to them as macrosomias (aka "big ass baby"-as explained by my OB). It's been 3 weeks since I had Quin, and I'm still trying to recover. The slow rate could be because, oh, I don't know, I'm trying to keep up with my 20 month old. Possible. Oh! And did I mention that my hair got darker with the pregnancies so at one point I had 3-4 different colors on my head? I looked like a calico kitty! 

Even though my body was taken over by macrosomias, nosebleeds, water weight, cankles, and 32 lbs of stretch mark causing goodness, I have never been happier. 

I look at my sweet little family and thank God for loving me enough to gift me an amazing, hot:) husband and two beautiful sons. What else could I possibly want or need? 

I know there will be difficult days ahead and frustrating moments, but I will accept those with open arms because I have these amazing people in my life. And because I no longer have to worry about getting cankles! It's a win-win! 

 

Brokenhearted

I'm writing today with a broken heart and on the verge of tears.  It's a such a struggle to keep the tears at bay that my nose burns.

I found out last night that a high school classmate of mine passed away two-and-a-half years ago.

As most people do when they go off to college and start living their lives post-high school, they lose touch with their classmates.  I have kept up with some through Facebook, but not often enough...obviously, since I just heard the news.  I found out because the "other Jessica" in my class (there were only 2 Jessica's) posted on FB about the death of a classmate, and out of shock and curiosity, I asked her who it was.  When she responded, my shock could only be expressed through overwhelming tears.

Our class of '98 Homecoming Queen (30 years old) lost her battle with depression Thanksgiving 2009 leaving behind her husband and 3 small children.

I woke up Jared, told him, and just cried in his arms.

I'm still trying to wrap my mind around how one of the most kind and energetic people I have ever met is no longer with us.  Its almost too much for my brain to comprehend.

Just like the majority of the adolescent age group, I was trying to find my way in high school.  I floated from group to group trying to fit in.  I wanted so badly to fit into the "popular" group.  Who doesn't? Honestly? I wanted to belong not just because they were popular, but because they were all so nice and kind, and knew what they wanted out of life.  They were great to be around, and accepted everyone.  This was the group she belonged in.

My heart breaks not only because she is gone, but also because how she left. 

Knowing her, I am sure she fought this mental disease as hard as she could.  I pray for her family, her husband, and, especially, her babies.  Even now, years later, I'm sure they need the strength that only our heavenly Father can provide.

I will always remember her adventurous heart, her humor, her humility, her strong faith, and her love for others. I wish she knew how much I admired her.  Maybe God can forward the message.

"Answer me quickly, LORD; my spirit fails. Do not hide your face from me or I will be like those who go down to the pit. Let the morning bring me word of your unfailing love, for I have put my trust in you. Show me the way I should go, for to you I entrust my life." Psalm 143:7-8

Back at it!

This past summer was probably one of the most amazing times I've ever had simply because of one thing....or person.  My son.  Waking up every single morning and spending every minute with him was wonderful and life-changing.  The word "busy" doesn't even cover it.  Here is what happened this summer.

1. We went to Pawley's Island, SC for 2 weeks.  It was Cayden's first time playing with the sand and ocean. He also got his very first ear infection that trip.
2. We went thrift store shopping almost daily (Goodwill, Revive, Salvation Army, any one that we came across). I love thrifting...my sister and mom have had an effect on me.
3. Jared and I threw an engagement party for Whit and Lindley with a Pride and Prejudice theme.  I'll post pictures later. But it was for 50 people...yeah.
4. My sister got married to the love of her life in New York, then we just got back from Florida for the actual family wedding.
5. I taught a pottery camp for 4th-8th grade students.  It was insane. No one warned me that a full day camp with this age was probably not a good idea.  However, lesson learned. Half-day camps from here on out!
6. I took part of my yearbook staff to a 3 day intensive in July.  It was very informative.

Before I knew it, the eight weeks were gone.  It was one of those times where the saying "need a vacation from your vacation" came to mind when I went back to school August 2nd.

Now, I'm back at it.  Back to work.  Back to every day life where I'm juggling our home schedules with work schedules, figuring out budgets, insurance changes and when I'm going to paint, trying to find the motivation to workout and eat healthy....I'm exhausted.

I have to keep remembering and applying Philippians 4:13, "I can do ALL things through Christ who gives me strength." Also, if the Proverbs 31 woman can do it all, so can I.  I hope.

I have a lot of plans for this year, and I will do my best to keep you updated.  The first thing on the list is Cayden's 1st Birthday!! My little dinosaur is turning into a toddler.  I have waited to the very last minute to plan this thing...meaning the only thing I have done is send out the invitations.  Sheesh!

So....here we go! The life of a full-time working mom continues....

High Five for Friday-May 11, 2012

Yay for Friday!! Its been a really quick week with so many wonderful things happening and many blessings coming from everywhere.

Here are my top five events from the week:

1. My mom and dad came for a visit.  I get to see my mom every month, but I don't get to see my dad as often.  I am so SO glad that he decided to come with mom this month, even if it was just for 48 hours. I love my Daddy! And so does his grandson!

Cayden, Oma, & G-Daddy

2. I sent in my application today to Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) for their Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Painting program.  After a week of prayer and speaking to my wise counsel members, I decided to go for it.  As an educator, I automatically will receive 1/2 tuition scholarship which takes it from $30K/Year to $15K/Year.  After speaking to a SCAD rep, she said that I could also receive an academic scholarship and portfolio scholarship that would make up the difference, giving me a full ride!! So, I am going to do everything that I can to make that happen!! Including creating an entire portfolio in just a few months....but I got this!

Birchbox!!

A few months ago, I discovered Birchbox.  It is one of the greatest things on "my" planet.  It's not a tree or a type of bush. 

It is a box full of beauty samples.  For only $10/month, I get a box of 5-6 travel size samples of new and/or top beauty products.  Do you know how much money this saves me a month?  I don't need to go to Sephora or Ulta on a consistent basis. I still go....but usually because its something that I use often and have run out of. 

I just got my May box yesterday and was so excited to see what was inside.  Apparently, it was the "Gossip Girl" edition, which doesn't really mean much to me.  However, it was cool stuff! I am also posting the contents of my March box because I really liked a few products in it (and shhhhh!... so did my husband, one face product in particular.)

March Birchbox:

1. Miss Jessie's Quick Curls

• I tried this, but it made my hair really oily.  I've got a lot of curl/wave to my hair, and it didn't really work for me.  I'm just going to keep it in my guest bathroom for when they need hair product.

2. Stila sample: Smoky Eye

• Still haven't used this. But it will be great to keep it in my purse for quick fixes or when I need to go to dinner after work and need a touch-up.

3. Deborah Lippmann "the Stripper to go" Nail Polish Remover Pads

• I have already used both of these! I love it! However, I wouldn't buy a whole box of them.  A bottle of polish remover and cotton balls work for me.

4.**BEST IN MY BOX!!** One Love Skin Savior - Waterless Beauty Balm

High Five for Friday

As I was reading through one of my favorite blogs, The Small Things Blog, I came across a great idea that I want to implement.  Kate, author of Small Things, writes every Friday about her top five highlights of the week.  Side note: if you love hair and make-up tips, you will love her blog. I highly recommend it.

Here are my top five of the week:
1. I have successfully made it to the 2 week mark for healthy eating and exercising. It's been a great journey thus far, and I have learned a lot about my inner strength and will power.  I also feel healthier.

2. I got my haircut yesterday and its short (won't fit into a ponytail)....but I LOVE it!! Its so easy.  My wonderful stylist also thinned it out just a bit so that it won't blow up like a helmet in this crazy humid weather.

3. Today is an anniversary for me.  Ten years ago I graduated with a BA in Pre-Professional Psychology from Lipscomb University.  Next month will mark my 10th anniversary from when I moved to Atlanta.  Time seriously does fly!! I can't believe its been that long.

4. Also, today I was given the privilege of leading the entire school in a devotion.  I didn't know how that was going to turn out, and I was a little nervous.  But as soon as I got on the speaker, it was great.  I spoke on Patience and Galatians 6:9,  "Do not be weary of doing good, for at the proper time you will reap a great harvest if you do not give up."  Powerful!

5. I know this sounds odd to be in a top five of the week, but Cayden finally got his top two teeth! I've noticed that once his teeth start to come through, his mood gets better. 

So, that's it.

I hope everyone has a great weekend!!

Jessica

Eat Better, Feel Better

As I mentioned in an earlier post, my husband and I began changing our poor and unhealthy eating habits to more of a whole foods based diet.  I realize that "whole foods" means different things to different people, but for us, it means eating as healthy as possible and reducing if not eliminating all processed foods.  We cannot afford to eat strictly organic for everything, but we do for a lot of things. Today is Day 11. I am happy to say that it has been a success so far.

There are 2 main reasons why we chose to do this. 
#1 - We want to set a good example for our son (and future children).  I believe that if he is raised early on to crave the right kind of foods, he will be healthier, happier, and have more energy to do whatever he sets his mind on.

#2 - We need to lose weight.  Both of us are "stocky" by nature, and I battle with Hypothroidism (slow to non-existant metabolism).  Plus, we both love, and I mean LOVE, desserts.  I know for me, mentally, my desire for sugary things was getting out of control.  I can't do the things that I want to do if I'm sucking all my energy out of my body with processed sugar.  Eating the right things (lean protein, low GI fruits and veggies, salads, and Greek yogurt) has given me more energy and actually makes me happier.