The Leuenberger's

Pics.

2011-01-07T14:07:00.001-08:00

Here are a few of my favorite pics from Reece's photo shoot. Thanks Laura Watson Photography---I love them!

Happy 4 weeks today.

2010-12-29T14:23:00.000-08:00

Baby Reece is 4 weeks old today. Here are some pics of my growing boy.

Plus a comparison of Jax when he was 4 weeks old.

This is Jax at 4 weeks...they do look alot alike after all.

Reece Gibson.

2010-12-20T12:38:00.000-08:00

I suppose it's about time I update this thing. If you aren't sure, yes, I did have baby #2 already. Reece Gibson Leuenberger was born on Dec 1, 2010 at 8:50 in the morning. He weighed 8 lbs and was 21 inches long. This delivery was so different from my first b/c I knew what I was getting into but I actually a little more nervous this time. Reece is a perfectly healthy little man who has a wonderful big brother that loves him to death!

The adjustment of having 2 kids has been more difficult than I thought it would be but is wonderful all at the same time. I think its because I feel pulled in 3 directions all at the same time and trying to get the 2 boys taken care of and still taking care of Hubby and it just gets a little overwhelming at times. I know this will all get better over time as I learn my boundaries and figure out how to meet all the needs of my 3 boys!!

I love my growing family and am so excited to see all that God has in store for us.

So--the last few weeks I've been recovering from surgery, finishing my Christmas shopping, wrapping presents, playing with the kids, going to the park, hanging out with my Grandma, addressing thank-you cards and Christmas cards....basically not much has changed, we had a baby and life must go on. No breaks or naps around here....maybe in January I'll be able to take a break!

37 weeks.

2010-11-11T11:50:00.000-08:00

My oh my, how things grow?!! Here's a pic of me just shy of 37 weeks. I could not be more ecstatic that little man will be here in just 3 weeks. These days are getting very uncomfortable and the strange weather patterns are not helping my allergies. Sleeping is pretty much non-existant unless I take some Tylenol PM. So, I guess until my nose clears up, I'll be doped up on drugs until this baby arrives. Other than that, I feel good. Not great-let's face it, who really "feels great" when they are pregnant? Those that say they do are just plain liars!!

The nursery is ready, his diaper bag is ready and I finally think I am ready. Jax knows there is a baby in my tummy but I don't think he has any idea what is about to happen. He has such a sweet nature though, that I think he is going to absolutely LOVE his brother. We'll see.

Speaking of Jax, he is growing up so fast and becoming more and more independent. He loves to play with his trucks and cars and the way he says "cars" is just the most adorable thing ever. I love that his vocabulary is expanding every week and it thrills me to hear him finally say "Mommy".

I'll try to post some pics of him soon and then before you know it, I'll be posting pics of new baby boy!

Pumpkin Patch.

2010-10-23T12:45:00.000-07:00

Last Year's Pumpkin pics (7 months old)

This year's Pumpkin Pics (almost 19 months old)

Still can't get him to smile for the camera too much. Plus it was super hot outside. I guess this fall and winter we will be wearing shorts and t-shirts through most of the season.

Dear Lord, as much as I appreciate the weather being in the 80's, it would sure be nice if we could have some weather closer to the low 70's. I know you're busy and have plenty of other things to be concerned about-just thought I'd make a special request. Thank You! I love you. Amen.

Me at 29 weeks.

2010-09-21T14:37:00.000-07:00

Me at 29 weeks!

This baby is moving like crazy-I tried to take a video but of course when I pressed record he decided to take a nap. sorry-maybe next time.

We have not decided on a name for this one yet-poor baby, he just isn't getting near as much attention as the 1st, I guess that's just how it goes with each kid. We've been busy getting Jaxon's big boy room put together and I'm really excited because his new furniture arrives tomorrow and then I can really get him organized. The last 2 days I've spent cleaning out the closets upstairs. There were several boxes that I had never gone through once we moved in, so I finally threw out a ton of old junk and was able to box up alot of things to keep in the garage. It feels so good to get more organized. Now its time to to get to the Container Store to finish my projects!

Only 10 weeks to go and our handsome little man will be here! I can't wait and am getting so antsy waiting for his arrival.

Swimming!

2010-09-13T12:15:00.000-07:00

Jaxon swam all by himself with floaties today!! He is getting so big!

Check up.

2010-09-03T11:12:00.000-07:00

So, last week I finally got Jax in for his 15 month check up, however, he was 17 months. I feel bad getting behind, but all went well and he is still super healthy, growing boy. He's 25 lbs and 2'8" tall. His Dr is excited about his physical ability and pleased with his eating habits. I was glad to hear he's doing so well, sometimes I get nervous that maybe I'm not feeding him all the right foods, but apparently he's doing way better than alot of other kids, so YAY!!

He's still not saying too many words clearly, but some things I get recognize are "car", "here you go" and "cracker". Everytime he sees any animal he says "woof woof". I don't know how he knows a dog sound, we don't have a dog and when we read books I make all animal sounds. Kids just know this stuff. He also makes a certain sound for cars, trucks, planes, etc. So cute and fun to watch him learn and grow. Jax copies everything his Daddy does, which Bryan loves and looks for something silly to do that Jax will repeat. He copies his dance moves, sounds, noises and they chase each other around the house screaming. I'm not quite sure what I've gotten myself into--this house gets loud with those 2 boys and now I'm adding another!

We've been busy with family in town and are now trying to wind down for the fall!! I'm so excited its September and I can't wait for cooler weather. We have my 10 year reunion this weekend and I'm really excited to see everyone. Hopefully I'll have some pictures soon to post-but Jax is not cooperating when it comes to being still for the camera.

Okay-that's all I have to share for now--enjoy Labor Day weekend--and enjoy the less humidity!

Pictures.

2010-08-28T18:20:00.000-07:00

Here's some pics from the last few months...Lake Tahoe Wedding and family visits!!

Nana with all her grandkids.

Jax loves to drum!!

The brothers and their wives! 2 of us our preggers!

Jax and Ally are a year apart-however they are about the same size! They had a blast together.

Playing with the cousins!

My little surfer!

Life.

2010-08-16T13:41:00.000-07:00

Not much going on around here to share. A couple of weeks ago Bryan's younger brother, Josh and his family drove through town on their way to move to the San Diego area. We had a fun weekend with their 3 kids and Bryan's older brother and his wife came down from Dallas and their parents hopped over from Oak Ridge. We spent the entire weekend swimming, eating and running around in the yard. Unfortunately I have no pictures to share of that weekend b/c our camera got stolen again from Bryan's car. Yes, I said "again". This is twice in 3 months and we have come to find out that the whole neighborhood has been hit. I'm not sure what is going on to solve this problem, but its very disturbing and I hope it doesn't happen again. We can't keep spending $600 on a new camera every 3 months but my little digital is just not taking very good pictures.

Other than that drama, I've been staying busy chasing Jax around and swimming a lot. Its been too hot to go to any parks so I decided to take him out to the pool almost every morning and he's had a blast. Jax is even learning to "jump" into the water. Its so cute and he just absolutely LOVES the water. I, however, am not doing so well in the heat. I get so light-headed after being outside for any extended period of time but I am doing my best to keep Jax entertained. I only have to deal with this heat for another couple of weeks and then I believe it will start cooling off. I cannot wait for the fall---I LOVE FALL WEATHER!! I'm already looking forward to putting up my fall decor and wondering if its too early to pull out my pumpkin candles and potpourri??

Our little man is kicking and moving around like crazy which is fun for a little while and then just annoying when you're trying to sleep. But I'm glad to know he's alive and moving and practicing all those cute little baby moves! I cannot wait to meet this little guy and see how much he does or does not look like Jaxon. I hope I can contain myself until Dec 1st!

Its officially time to get Jaxon's big boy room ready and rearrange the baby room. When its finished I'll post some photos. I've been busy searching the internet for new bedding for Jax, furniture for his room and also a double stroller. I would love any advice or recommendations of your fav stroller.

Enjoy these few pics....remember-camera got stolen, so this is all I have.

Jaxon's new favorite hiding spot. He closes the door and hangs out in there while he eats his snack. Then he laughs at himself because he thinks he is being soooo funny.

Hubby's 30th B-day!

2010-07-27T12:57:00.000-07:00

Here's a pic of me and my new sister-in-law!! We're Pregger together! She's about 7 weeks behind me and I'm so thrilled that she is preggers with me. Our little kiddos will be so close and hopefully best buddy cousins!!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY BRYAN!!

Last week my incredible Husband and best friend turned 30, so of course we had to do it up big and celebrate with all the old buddies. We set up a stage under the porch because it was raining but it was still awesome and we had such a great time. Thanks everyone for celebrating with us--we love you and Bryan really had a fantastic time! Here are some pics to enjoy.

Singing Happy Birthday and his favorite Cake--Tres Leches

Eric, Jonathan and Bryan

Enjoying the music!!

Of course we had to have a little two-steppin'

Enjoying the music poolside!

Bryan, Garrett and Amanda

Thanks mom and dad for helping me with food and clean-up!

The Band (Justin, Bryan, Matt and Susan)

More of the Band, You guys rocked it out!!

2010-07-27T08:46:00.000-07:00

I got so excited when I found this new background because it totally matches Jaxon's baby bedding, which will also be the bedding for the new little peanut. Now I have to figure out what I'm going to do for Jaxon's big boy room. ...so much to think about and get done in the next 4 months. AHHH!!

Jax would like you to meet....

2010-07-12T14:06:00.001-07:00

Jax would like you all to know that he is having a baby Brother! We could not be more thrilled to add another boy to the family and I am praying that they will become best friends!!
Here is our newest little man~~

July 4th and 15 months.

2010-07-07T12:00:00.000-07:00

Oh my, there has been so much going on these last few weeks, its hard for me to capture everything so I don't have too many pics to share. However, I'll post what I do have.
First, here's a pic of Jaxon's new favorite accessory. He wears this pretty much everyday, all day.

Last week my mom and I went to visit my dear friend Katrina who just had a little precious baby boy named Cole. He is such a sweetie..oh how I love when they are just passed out like this! ...here are the photos.
Jax actually did really well despite the slap on Cole's head. I think that's how he shows he's interested, he just doesn't know what else to do. Sorry baby Cole!

Later in the week I started up women's bible study again for the summer and then went to a friend's bachelorette party, the rehearsal and rehearsal dinner and then her wedding on Saturday. Of course I have no photos to show for that, but we had a great time, the bride was GORGEOUS, and I was exhausted.
On Sunday Bryan and I enjoyed an afternoon out and we went to a movie, then drove up to my parents house for fireworks. Jax was not a fan at first but got used to them and enjoyed sitting with his Daddy while all the neighbors around the lake shot off their fireworks. It was quite an amazing show and I think everyone from the Woodlands should come out there to watch next year. It was certainly way less crowded then heading to Market Street or somewhere around there. And I'm sorry to announce that I have no photos from July 4th either--boo. But here is a video I took of him on our way to see the fireworks. Bryan was making drum sounds in the car and Jax started trying to repeat. It was so cute. Of course I couldn't capture how amazing he was, but you'll get the idea.

On baby news, I have started to feel little kicks and jabs throughout the day, which makes me very excited to finally feel something! And hopefully we will find out whether the little peanut is a boy or girl on Friday. Let's pray he/she cooperates!!

Jax Stats.

2010-05-25T11:38:00.001-07:00

So I don't think I've posted any of Jaxon's stats lately...here are a few.
-He now has 4 teeth. Yes he is 13 months old and only has 4 teeth, but hey, at least they are there.
-Jax LOVES swimming. He's not so good at listening so we have to be super careful, but he loves the water and screams when its time to get out.
-He weighs somewhere around 22lbs, that was at his 12 month check up so I'm sure he's over that by now.
-Jax is eating apple sticks and sweet potato fries and chicken nuggets and grapes and hot dogs. Really just about anything. I know I need to let him try feeding himself, but I am just not ready for the mess. Maybe in another month or 2.
-When I ask "who's on the phone?", he holds his hand to his ear, tilts his head and starts speaking babble in a high pitched voice. So cute.
-He is climbing on everything, loves to sit on things his level to make it a chair and runs circles around the living room. Let's just say I don't feel like I need to work out at the end of day.
-Jax LOVES music. I've been getting out my guitar once in a while and he'll come bang on it with me, he plays on his drums and dances and sings anytime he hears a beat. I am so glad he's going to have some rhythm. Of course I have dreams of him being a worship leader with an incredible voice and selling millions of albums...what a mother can dream can't she?
Basically Jax is growing up before my eyes and I am amazed at all that he is learning, even things I don't teach him. I just can't wait for him to start using his words so I can hear him say "I love you" back to me.

Vacation and Weddings.

2010-05-23T12:49:00.001-07:00

Wow. I have so much to share and we have been super busy but I'll try to keep this short. We recently had a little vacation to San Francisco and Lake Tahoe for my brother-in-law's wedding. We were so glad to get some time away and be together but I don't think I will travel with a one-year old like that again. Unfortunately, Jax did not do well with the plane ride, the time change and staying in different hotels. He is so used to his own bed and his space that it was hard to get adjusted the entire time we were gone. By the 3rd day, I was in need of a time out away from Jax and luckily the bridal luncheon was that day, so I got away for a few hours and it was wonderful. You know, sometimes you just need a break. I've never felt that way before, but for 3 days straight I had no space from Jaxon. His whining was driving me bananas!
Bryan and I had a wonderful time walking around San Francisco, eating Churros and watching the Sea Lions, but we realized that this would be more fun when the kids are older and we can enjoy the underwater aquarium and take a boat ride and tour more of the city. So we'll have to go back in a few years when Jax will truly enjoy it. On our way to Lake Tahoe for the wedding we stopped off at the Jelly Belly Factory, which was just a few miles from my old house. My Aunt Patty and Grandma came over to go through the tour with us when they were on their way to Sacramento. We finally arrived in Lake Tahoe and it was GORGEOUS!! This place is so beautiful and the weather was absolutely perfect. We thoroughly enjoyed our time with family that we hadn't seen since last summer and of course LOVED watching Bryan's brother get married to an amazing woman and we couldn't be happier for them. Jax was finally in a good mood for the wedding and he had such a blast. He was the life of the party and I think everyone was watching him on the dance floor instead of the bride and groom. It was just so cute to watch him in action.
Below are some pics of our trip a bit out of order. Enjoy.

The new completed Leuenberger family....until more kids come of course.

The Bride and Groom, they were so happy and in love. Such a beautiful wedding!

All the sister-in-laws!

Jaxon and his cousin, Ashlin, were the life of the dance floor!

The Next Chapter.

2010-05-03T19:03:00.001-07:00

Well, I guess it's about time I fill you all in on our news. We are having another baby!! I am almost 10 weeks now and for the most part am feeling great. I am extremely tired and can't stay up late to watch our usual TV shows, so my poor husband is very behind. He's so sweet to wait for me to watch them though.
We are super excited, scared and nervous all at the same time. I feel like I'm just getting the hang of 1 kid and now that he is getting older and more independent, he's been quite a piece of work some days. I hope he grows out of that phase and I'm hoping that once he learns to speak and communicate he will not be as frustrated. Thinking of having 2 kids right now sort of freaks me out, but I know if 7 more months, it will be just the perfect timing. I'm secretly hoping it will be another boy, but I know these things never work out the way you want or desire, so I'm trusting the Lord because I know that He has worked out everything in His perfect plan.

Jaxon's 1st B-day Party!

2010-04-14T09:28:00.001-07:00

Here's a look at Jaxon's 1st Birthday Party. We had so much fun even though the party got a little rained out. I ordered this cake to match the invitations...which were super cute and I don't have a picture of them...but they look like the cake. I was hoping to have a swim party but of course it was cold and rainy and no one got in the water...I'm a little surprised no one fell in which makes me very happy that all the kids stayed away from the water.
The pics are a bit out of order...but you get the idea!

Thank you everyone for coming to the Party!!

Morgan was being such a big help opening presents!

This face sums it all up. I think Jax was a little overwhelmed by all the people, chaos and presents.
Some of the family came in from out of town...it means so much to us that you were there!
Olivia..Uncle Eric..Granny L...Aunt Andrea...and Poppy (who lives here.)

Jax almost got the flame with his fingers...but I got to it in time.

Even though he's making a happy face in this pic...he was not happy about the cake and did not want to eat it. I think he just didn't want to be in his chair anymore. Oh well...better luck next year.

Emma was soooo cute in her Rock Star glasses...I got goody bags for the kids with all things Rock Star....glasses, candy, guitar bubbles, noise makers and of course, blow-up guitars!

Silly Boys.

Ryanne and Morgan are best friends and were using the bubble wand as a mascara wand. So funny! Aren't they just adorable.

The kids still played outside even though the weather was awful. Sorry parents that your kiddos were wet and muddy!

Happy Birthday to the most adorable little man in the world. We love you Buddy!

Happy 1st Birthday Jax!

2010-04-04T14:53:00.001-07:00

Birth Day.

1 Week Old.

3 Months Old.

6 Months Old.
9 Months old.
1 Year Old.

Jaxon's fun day on a boat.

2010-03-26T12:36:00.001-07:00

Asleep.
Jax only wanted to ride with Daddy.

Such a BEAUTIFUL day!

11 months.

2010-03-05T12:41:00.000-08:00

Jax turned 11 months yesterday. Wow--time really does fly. Bryan and I have really enjoyed the last couple months as Jax grows into his own personality. He is so funny and loves to laugh and play games. Some games are no good like when he thinks its funny to throw his food on the kitchen floor; but other games are great--like when he wants to play catch across the coffee table with any kind of toy. Or when he thinks he's being chased...he starts walking pretty fast and laughs way before we catch him. or peek-a-boo or high five! He is such a joy and really so much fun. We are so glad our first has been such a wonderful experience and we really do look forward to having more soon. We'll see what God has in store!
We do have another addition to the family...and no I'm not pregnant. We recently agreed to have an international missionary stay with us until the end of April. Her name is Jilly and she is from Ireland. So far we really don't see her all that much because the group she is here with have so many activities and ministries planned every day. I hope she's getting enough sleep! The stories she tells are quite amazing and her heart is so full of love for those the rest of us would probably want nothing to do with. This experience has definitely challenged me to seek the Lord deeper to desire that kind of love. I don't think I love people the way I should. And I certainly don't shower God's love on to others that need it most. Its so easy to get settled into our comfortable lives and go about our busy schedules. I need to pay more attention to what God is doing around me and look for more opportunities to be a light of God's love.
Anyways--I have no pictures of her because she is never around..but I'll try to get one of her this weekend...Jax is really having fun with his new friend. Its funny to see him with her in the morning...not quite sure who this new person is but she is here every morning watching him eat breakfast.

So to sum up for this month...
-Jaxon is getting way more comfortable walking and really never crawls anymore. He's getting fast which makes him a little more clumsy so now he is bumping his head and nose way too much. Last week we had 2 bloody noses. The poor thing.
-He eats like a champ and I am trying to venture into new foods...but I just can't stand the mess. Yesterday I let him eat tortellinis with sauce and that was a disaster. I know I need to let him do it--but maybe I'll wait till he stops rubbing his hands in his hair. He loves pears and peaches and cheese sandwiches and yogurt and spinach ravioli and mango and everything else. -Still no teeth
-cries around dogs and cats
-is scared of balloons and inflatable things; balls, bats, etc. I guess he won't be too interested in sports. I tried to get him to play basketball with his cousin but he was scared and kept running away from the basketball
-Loves to dance and sing and he loves to play on the piano.
-crawls all the way up the stairs and the other day he even went down one stair backwards. He actually stopped at the top, sat down and crawled down. I was so impressed he knew to do that!

That's pretty much it. I am so excited for his birthday coming up! It will be on Easter this year so I'll have the party on a different day but I can't wait to see him more excited about his presents than he was at Christmas. Our little baby is growing up and becoming his own little person...only 4 weeks till I have a 1 year old. Ahh!

10 months old.

2010-02-03T12:38:00.000-08:00

Poor thing...he had a very bad fall.

Tomorrow Jax will be 10 months old. That means I only have 2 months to plan his 1st birthday party...am I a bad mommy if I have not even started thinking about it??

It has been so fun these last couple of months to watch Jax grow and see his little personality coming out. He is generally a very happy and joyful baby but lately he has decided he likes to squeal very loudly when he does not get his way. He has learned what No means, but he thinks its a game to keep doing what I asked him not to do. And when his toys don't seem to do what he wants them to he gets really frustrated and throws the toy around and starts screaming at it. I know its very frustrating for him, but it makes me laugh to watch him get so worked up. I can hardly believe and am so amazed at how much he's changed and how much he is learning!
Here are 10 of my favorite things about Jax:
1. When I say "Give mommy kisses", he leans in. awe--just melts my heart.
2. He likes to play Peek-a-boo with a blanket or clothes by himself and covers his head and starts laughing at himself.
3. He has learned to give "High 5" and actually slaps my hand when I ask
4. He loves his naps and for the most part falls asleep on his own.
5. He laughs so hard when I chase him around the house. He thinks it the most fun game in the world. He starts getting excited before I start chasing after him....if I hide it makes it even better!
6. When he hears his daddy come home he stops whatever he is doing and follows his voice to go find him....just precious.
7. We sit at the piano together and he loves to play and sing all by himself...he does not like it when I try to play along!
8. For the most part he keeps himself entertained with his toys...which lets me get some work done around the house.
9. Sometimes throughout the day he'll crawl over just to give me hugs, then he'll go back to playing...he is such a sweet boy.
10. I love his laugh!!

9 months and counting.

2010-01-15T12:16:00.000-08:00

Playing in the snow.

Mommy's attempt at being a photographer....

With the cousins in our Christmas pj's...thanks Nana Shanny.

This is what I do when I laugh!

I love to look outside and talk to all the trees.

Standing up all by myself!

Okay, so I realize it has been forever since my last post and I apologize. Its mostly because I have not been able to load my Christmas pictures and I have been waiting for that so I could post Jaxon's 1st Christmas. However, I still can't get them loaded, so I will just update you on all that's been going on and when I get the Christmas pics then I'll just load them separately. We had a wonderful time with family and friends over the holidays and we really look forward to next year when Jax will be more excited about opening his presents. This year I opened most of his gifts, which was a whole lot for the little guy. He got lots of toys, which he loves, especially the ones he can push around and that make noise--he is dancing to the music, which is absolutely hilarious! Thank you to everyone for your sweet gifts and for showering him with your love!
Jaxon turned 9 months old on January 4th and I cannot believe I have a 9th month old. I know I say that every month...but its true. I kept thinking he was only 8 months, but no, he is indeed 9 months. We had his check up this morning and he is a whopping 29 inches tall and only weighs 19lbs. I thought he'd be well over 20 lbs by now. The Dr was not concerned though because he has been moving all over the place for the last 2 months that he is just burning through too many calories. She informed me that I should add butter and sour cream to his potatoes to bring in more fatty calories. She also told me to add more protein to his diet, so I'll start boiling more eggs and cutting up some turkey and giving him refried beans. Hopefully he likes this new addition. Shouldn't be too hard considering he eats nearly everything I give him...he did, however, spit out the avocado I tried to feed him yesterday.
Now for the big announcement.....Jax took 2 steps all by himself today!! I was so proud of him but of course did not catch it on film. Hopefully he'll do it again and I'll have my camera ready. I have a video of him pushing his walker around so you can enjoy that for now. Below is a list of his activities and achievements:
-sleeps from 8 pm till 7:30am
-takes 2 naps
-eats 3 meals a day and takes a bottle 4 times
-eats bite-size carrots, peas, apples, bananas, sweet potatoes---so glad I don't have to puree everything anymore. Some days he won't eat unless he can feed himself...he is getting so darn independent!
-has no teeth
-crawls all over the house (we recently put up a cage around the living room so he can't get to the stairs)
-speaking of stairs - he has crawled/climbed up the entire staircase. when he gets older, I'll teach him how to get down so he doesn't fall
-walks (cruises) around the furniture
-walks by himself with anything that has wheels (trucks, walker, etc)
-gets really excited when his daddy comes home
-LOVES kids...he laughs and talks to them all the time
-babbles all the time but does not say "mama" or "dada"
-loves banging his hands like he's playing the drums...just like daddy.
-laughs at everything and now throws his head back when he laughs-its hilarious! (shown is pic above)
-has learned how to use his sippy cup

Okay-I think that's about all for now. He is growing and healthy and wonderful and I couldn't ask for a better child. We just love and adore him so much.

Almost 8 months.

2009-11-30T20:38:00.000-08:00

7 Months and more.

2009-11-10T13:12:00.001-08:00

Jax is climbing on everything. He especially loves the fireplace.

My cute little Dragon

This is what Jax does all the time...not sure what this is suppose to mean??!

Jax crawling.

2009-10-28T10:05:00.000-07:00

I finally figured out how to post a video!! Yeah. So here is Jax crawling - its from a few weeks ago--I know its still just slow moving--but he is really starting to get all around the house. I now must keep my floors vacuumed and swept every day. Not like I didn't clean before, but now, its just more often.
Also--below are some pictures from the last few weeks.

6 months.

2009-10-11T19:37:00.000-07:00

This morning my 6 month old climbed out of his Bumbo chair. I was not aware that was even possible. Luckily, it was on the floor in my bathroom while I was in the shower because sometimes I leave him up on the counter so he can look in the mirror. The funny part was that he was trying to climb back in but obviously could not quite figure it out. I guess he will no longer be using his handy dandy bumbo chair.

I was trying to post a video but it would never load so I'll try to shoot a shorter film this afternoon of Jax crawling. That's right - I said crawling. For the past month Jax has been up on all fours exploring this new strength. He has been rocking back and forth and scooting backwards and just this week he finally started using his arms and legs together to propel himself forward. He still uses his stomach occasionally but for the most part he is using his arms and legs. I used his pacifier to lure him at first but again this morning after the bumbo chair incident I put him out in my room while I was finishing getting ready. We played "Follow my Voice" and sure enough he made it to the door and into the bathroom. I can no longer leave him in a room for a short period of time because he is getting into everything. He loves chewing on shoes, books, diapers and now his play mat (as you will see in the picture below).

Jaxon eats everything. He loves carrots, peas, sweet potatoes, apples, bananas, pears, green beans, and squash. I've been making my own food as much as I can, but sometimes the fruit is not so great - so I buy the Gerber stuff. I thought it would be a hassle and take up a lot of time to cook my own baby food, but I have discovered that the crockpot is a great way to cook the carrots and apples and then I use my Magic Bullet to puree them. It also makes it easy to puree the peas and other steamed veggies! I have never really used the Bullet before because I didn't see much need for it, but it has been wonderful and super easy to clean! This week I am introducing berries and its just too difficult to get all the seeds out so I bought the Gerber fruit mixes and he loved the strawberry banana this morning. I figured I should start him on other fruits besides just apples and bananas. I'm sure he's sick of them by now.

Here are some of the latest pics...

My First Biscuit (very messy)

Grandma and Grandpa Shanafelt came to visit.

Thanks Uncle Jason for letting me borrow your hat!

I love to eat everything!

5 months.

2009-09-01T08:00:00.000-07:00

Okay, so I know its been way too long since I've posted any news and I have realized that I am just not great at this blogging thing. So, I will try harder to post more often, but if not then just check my pics on my facebook. I update that way more often.

So...the lastest Jaxon news is that he is almost 5 months old. Yup, that's right, he will be 5 months on Friday and I just cannot believe its been 5 months since he was born. Babies change so much and so drastically this first year, I am amazed.
Jaxon has been experiencing so much, like, rolling over from his back to front at 4 months and just last week he rolled from his front to his back in the crib. He is eating solid foods and LOVING it. He opens his mouth and the way he tries to figure it all out is just hilarious. But he gets the food down and surprisingly does not spit much of it out at all. He started with the rice cereal and now also eats sweet potatoes and peaches. This week I am determined to make my own food, so I will be making pears and apples but I have to go to the store to buy an ice tray so that I can store it in the freezer. Then next week I'll make my own sweet potatoes and carrots. I bought this really great book that gives recipes and tips and the nutritional information on each food and why and when you should feed it to your baby. I love it!
Jaxon sleeps like a champ. From very early on he has been sleeping through the night, so I have been so lucky with that. Lately, he's been going to sleep between 8 and 9 and not waking up until 8 in the morning. The other night he even went to sleep at 7 and slept until 8 in the morning. I couldn't believe it. I am nursing only 4 times through out the day and should be dropping another one soon now that he is eating solids. We'll see how that goes.
Jaxon and I recently took a trip to California with my mom and brother to visit my mom's family out there. We got to spend some time with my aunts and uncles and of course my Grandma. She just loved Jax to death and couldn't get enough hugs and kisses. She does not remember much these days but she remembers how to love babies. It was so sweet to see her and watch her love on my son. I don't know how much longer she will be around, so it was really important for me to get some pics with her and Jax.
So, I know it is only the 1st day of September, but I have already started decorating for the fall. I love the fall and the smells that come with it. I am not a fan of potpourri, but I love the fall ones, they are full of oranges and cinnamon and pumpkins and the best smelling spices. I know its early but I just couldn't help myself, I am so ready for some cooler weather and so I went ahead and put out my pumpkins and fall candles and I LOVE it! Plus, I can't wait to get Jax in some of his fall clothes, he has some super cute ones but its just too hot for him to wear right now...hurry up cooler weather.

Here are some pics of Jaxon....Enjoy.

Munching time...

2009-07-13T08:56:00.001-07:00

My Cutie Patootie trying to eat his hand. I just love him!

Jaxon at 3 Months...

2009-07-13T08:10:00.001-07:00

I kept trying to get a picture of him smiling...but he would only smile in between takes...he's such a stinker.

Jaxon started playing with some of his toys...so precious!!

3 months.

2009-07-08T13:34:00.001-07:00

Wow--it has been too long since I have posted any updates. Jaxon is now 13 1/2 weeks old, officially 3 months old on July 4th. Time has just flown by these last few months and it is hard to believe I was giving birth just 3 months ago. Feels like I just came home from the hospital and at the same time it feels like we have always had Jax in our lives.
so....a few quick updates on Jaxon....he has been sleeping up in his crib since week 4 and doing great. He now only eats 4 or 5 times a day and is usually finished by 8 or 9. He sleeps for about 10 hours at night with an occasional wake up to find his paci around 4 or 5. But luckily he goes right back to sleep after that. We were on a great schedule for about 8 weeks and then went to Florida last week for the Leuenberger family reunion and have had a rough time getting back into the swing of things. But Jaxon is doing so great, I know it will just be a couple of days and he'll be back to normal. He is growing like crazy, I'm sure he's well over 15 lbs by now and we have had to move up to the size 2 diapers!!! He has started laughing alot more than usual and it is so cute. When we sing "If you're Happy and you know it..." he just laughs and laughs and its the most precious thing in the world. Just this last week he has become interested in his toys. Before then I would hold them in front of his face but he wanted nothing to do with it. Now he plays on his floor mat and bats at the animals hanging down and kicks his feet at the little bars. I'm so proud of him and his accomplishments at such a young age. In the last week Jaxon has discovered his hands. He has them in his mouth almost all day long and enjoys sucking his fingers, but I have to watch him as he will occasionally gag himself because he puts them too far into his mouth. Lets see what else has he done...oh-we had a very successful 1st plane trip to Florida, the slept like a champ and didn't bother anyone. He went on his 1st boat ride, (don't worry-they had a life jacket for his size) and he slept the whole time on the boat as well. I think the boat and the airplane were very soothing for him.
I had my first night away from Jax last night and went to an Astros game with some girlfriends. Bryan took Jaxon out for some errands and fed him a bottle. They did so good for me so I could enjoy my night away. I somewhat expected Bryan to call with questions or to ask when I was coming home, but he didn't. He did wonderfully and it allowed me to enjoy my evening.
I'll have to post some pictures later of our Florida trip but my sister in law took all the good ones and I haven't received a disk from her yet.
I think that's about it for now. I'll try to be better about posting...and I'll get some new photos up soon.

Jaxon...almost 7 weeks!

2009-05-22T12:43:00.000-07:00

My oh My - it has been way too long since I'm written anything on this blog. I am not doing a very good job of keeping everyone updated. Jax will be 7 weeks tomorrow and I just cannot believe its been that long already. He is growing so fast and becoming such a strong little man. He holds his head up so well and likes to push himself off the floor. He has started smiling and talking and it is just the cutest thing in the world. My heart melts everytime a little sound comes out of his mouth. Our little guy is a FABULOUS sleeper. He usually goes between 7 and 8 hours at night which is amazing. We get plenty of sleep, at least for now. I hope this doesn't change as he gets older. Here are some pics of him from the last couple of weeks. He's been visiting with his cousins who are here from out of town and Uncle Eric also came to play.

Here are some of the latest pics...

Bri and Chase making Jaxon laugh!!

Uncle Eric

Cousin Emma holding her "baby Jax-skin"

This is a Leuenberger face if I've ever seen one...

Happy Mother's Day!

Happy Easter 2009!!

2009-04-16T20:16:00.001-07:00

Delivery.

2009-04-12T16:18:00.001-07:00

As promised, I am writing today about the whole labor experience. Saturday was not what I was expecting. Bryan and I woke up at the usual Saturday morning time around 8:30 and I began making our usual Saturday morning breakfast, Blueberry Waffles! Yum. I talked with my mom for a brief moment after breakfast about our dinner plans at their house later that evening. And almost as soon as I got off the phone with her I started having some horrible cramping pain that just wouldn't go away. I thought to myself..."Self, I think we're having this baby today". After a little while I called for Bryan and explained what I was feeling and that I really didn't feel good...felt like I was going to vomit but wanted to shower before heading to the hospital. Instead ended up in the bathroom because of the whole vomiting situation...and all of a sudden my water broke (around 11am or so). Jaxon had made a bowel movement so I knew we needed to get to the hospital quickly. We got our stuff together and I tried to clean myself up a bit and got to the hospital around noon. The nurses put us in a room right away and began checking little Jaxon's heart. They did not like what they saw and told us we'd probably have to have an emergency C-section. This is not at all what I wanted to do...I had decided early on that I really wanted to try to do a natural delivery, but Jaxon's health was most important, so of course we would do whatever was needed. My parents and Bryan's parents arrived quickly after hearing that we'd probably be going into surgery soon. After filling out a bunch of paper work while hooked up to oxygen...we sort of just waited to hear back from the Dr about what was coming next. All of a sudden there were a ton of nurses and dr's in our room and they took me out of the room before I knew what was happening. I guess Jax was in more stress then they had originally thought...or I guess it was just getting worse. I was so surprised at how composed I was going into surgery and I know it was God's perfect peace over me that kept me so calm. I could really feel His presence that afternoon. At 2:19 pm the dr. pulled little Jax out with the cord wrapped around his neck 4 times and after getting him out safely, Bryan went over to the nurses while they cleaned him up. He turned out to be perfectly healthy and had no other complications. But my Dr said she'd never seen anything like that before. No wonder he was in such stress, the poor little guy was having a rough time in there. We are so thankful that everything turned out okay and that the surgery went very well. Jax is perfect. He sleeps through the night, eats really well and is typically calm and happy. We could not be more blessed to have such an incredible son. I have been recovering well and cannot wait to get back to working out here and there to start losing this baby weight, but I am resting as much as I can.
So...that's how things happened last Saturday. It was not at all what I planned, but I am realizing more and more that children really are in God's hands and I literally have no control over anything. I have to place Jaxon in God's hands...after all, He took care of him while he was in my womb and He took care of him during the delivery and did things the way He wanted. Not me. I know God's plan is best...so I am perfectly happy letting him have control (even though its hard to let go sometimes).

We took some super cute Easter pics but I don't have the cable to load them onto my computer right now, so hopefully I'll get them up in the next couple of days.

Jaxon Arrived!!!

2009-04-07T13:45:00.000-07:00

Jaxon arrived on Saturday, April 4, 2009. He weighed 6 lbs 15 oz. It was a whirlwind of a day, but we are finally home and doing great. I'll write more about the experience later but figured I should put a picture up for all to see. Thanks so much for all who have been praying for us...we felt every one of them and I know God gave me a supernatural peace through out the whole experience.

1 day over...

2009-04-03T11:12:00.000-07:00

1 day over...
I had my last Dr. appt today. Now we just wait for delivery day. I am praying Jax decides to come sometime this weekend but if not then we are scheduled for an induction next Thursday. Of course he might decide to arrive sooner, but it would work out perfectly for him to come later in the week so that Bryan won't be stressed about work as well. Since he owns the company, its harder for him to be away without wondering what's going on and I know he will be more relaxed and focused if our little man would come over the weekend. So...that is my prayer request. We are looking forward to his arrival and can't wait to see what he looks like. I know he's going to be so cute and precious. Come on Jaxon!!!!

No Birth Day today.

2009-04-02T21:11:00.001-07:00

Well--today was supposed to be Jaxon's Birth Day but looks like he isn't quite ready. I did everything I am supposed to do...I ate spicy food for lunch, did lots of squats through out the day and Bryan and I went on a long walk after dinner. I have a Dr. appointment tomorrow morning and I'm really hoping for some good news. I even packed my hospital bag hoping that Jax would see that I'm all ready...but oh well.
Lets all pray for good news tomorrow!!

Final day!!!

2009-04-01T20:28:00.001-07:00

I wish that when I read online about what contractions will feel like and how to know when its really labor that they would be more consistent. Everyone has such a different experience that I really have no idea what to expect or what to look for. I know everyone says that I'll just know, but what if I don't. What if I'm that small percentage of women who don't know they are in labor until its too late??
So--I'm really not all that worried, but that's what was going through my mind today. I couldn't sleep last night so I read a bunch of stuff online last night and was probably better off not reading anything at all. oh well.

Tomorrow is the actual Due Date so we'll see if Jax decides to come on his proposed birth day. oh and another thing...if everyone is usually late with their first, why don't the doctors just give us a later due date? Why the torture of expecting our child to come earlier than later. If anything they should tell us the baby is coming a week later that way if they do come "on time", it will feel early. This is what I propose the doctors should do for 1st time pregnancies. Don't know if I explained very well, but I'm tired and I'm sure it sounds all jumbled. sorry.

Time to finish my laundry and pack my hospital bag and then hopefully I will be able to get some sleep tonight.

Only 2 more days.

2009-04-01T07:41:00.000-07:00

Okay, so keeping up with my blog has been harder than I thought. Sorry for the delays.
Nothing significant to report from yesterday...my mom and brother came over for a little bit in the afternoon and hung out. Jason set up the activity floor gym for baby Jaxon (I think mostly for himself to play with!).
I have a few errands to run to keep myself a little busy today but other than that we're just resting and trying to think about other things so my body can relax.
I'll let you know if anything happens!

Happy April!

3 Days...

2009-03-30T18:03:00.000-07:00

Well...we've had some activity today. Not going to tell the world what happened to my body today, but just know that we had some activity. And I'm pretty sure I've been having contractions throughout the day. Nothing consistent or significant...but either way I think we've made some good progress. Unless I go into labor before Friday, I will see my doc Friday morning and she'll be able to determine what the next steps would be. It would actually be perfect if I did go into labor on Jaxon's due date because my mother in law comes home Tuesday and my dad won't be home until Friday morning. And my doctor is not on-call this weekend, so it would be nice if Jax decided to come Thursday or Friday so she could deliver me. Plus, Bryan won't have to take off so much work if we have the whole weekend to get adjusted and spend some time together. So...lets everyone pray Jax comes Thursday night or Friday so my dad can come and my doctor will be able to do the delivery.
Now I'm off to make some cookies to take with us to the hospital.

4.

2009-03-29T14:18:00.000-07:00

With only 4 days to go, there is really not much to report today. Again, Bryan and I just relaxed for most of the day. I made some pancakes this morning, we watched a movie and then got cleaned up to go out to eat. I kind of like going to church on Saturday night because we got to sleep in today and not rush around. We really did honor the Sabbath today...no work whatsoever!!
We ate at a fairly new sandwich shop in the Woodlands and then walked to Market Street and got some ice cream. It was such a beautiful day so we just sat outside and watched the kids playing in the fountains. Pretty soon that will be us - how crazy!! It was especially weird because we put the carseat in the Tahoe and it was strange to think that this time next week we could possibly have our little man riding around with us. It really blows my mind to think about it sometimes!
Well-I'm off to the grocery store to find something for dinner tonight and stock up for the rest of the week. All in all, things are great and we are soooooo ready for Jax to come! Come on little Jax, come out and see us! We can't wait to meet you and hold you and love you and hug you and kiss you and show you to the world!

5 Days Left.

2009-03-28T19:05:00.000-07:00

Today was a very relaxing day. Bryan and I slept in a bit and then I even took another nap before we went to lunch. We rented some movies, rode around on the golf cart for a bit and went to church this evening. It was a nice day and I'm so glad Bryan and I just got to spend some time together.
We keep talking to Jaxon and telling him to come out and play, its nice and we would love for him to join us. We'll see if that coaxes him into coming soon.
On a side note, we had 4 showings at our old house today - woohoo!! Hopefully more will come this next week and our house will be sold soon. Either way, we trust that God has a buyer out there for that house and we know He will provide for us in the meantime.
Off to attempt to get comfortable and get some sleep. We'll see what tomorrow brings.

39 Weeks.

2009-03-27T13:05:00.000-07:00

Hello friends....I realize I did not post anything for yesterday, I decided to spend the night with my husband instead!
So, I am officially 39 weeks. It feels so crazy to be close to Delivery Day and we are getting more excited as each day approaches. Last night we were laughing at how unprepared we probably are when its time for us to time contractions and what to do in the hospital but that's just the kind of people we are. We'll figure it out and I have total faith in our doctors and nurses to guide us in the right direction. I'm sure they will laugh at us, but it will be a fun experience to go through together. With only 7 days to go, I had quite a busy day. I met with my friend Julie and her boys for breakfast and she filled me in on all her labors and what to expect. It was great to catch up with her and since she has 3 boys, she had some great advice for me. Then I had lunch plans with my mom and my sister's friend from Doha, Desi and her little girl, Ella. Desi just moved back to the states to we took her around Market Street and did some shopping. Luckily the rain held off until we were finished. I then had an Arbonne Business Launch meeting with a girl up in Conroe, so Jax and I braved the rain and met with her to help her get her business up and running. We had a great time.
Bryan and I ate our usual mexican food for dinner and enjoyed the newest episode of Lost - that show just gets more and more confusing with every episode but of course you can't stop watching.
Jaxon really started dropping yesterday, I could feel him moving down and it was the strangest thing ever. I mean, I could literally tell that he was getting lower. I don't know how to describe it, but it was just weird. It made it very hard to sleep last night because I kept waking myself wondering if I was having a contraction of if he was just moving. Turns out I was not having contractions, he was just moving around, keeping me awake for most of the night. Needless to say, I was way too tired to wake up and go to my Dr. appt, but you got to do what you got to do.
Still only dilated 1cm...but with one week to go we are still in good shape. Looks like he may come right on time.

Day 8

2009-03-25T20:14:00.000-07:00

Today is 8 days from the big Delivery Day and I am getting more excited. Well, actually I've been totally freaked out about delivery, but God has been giving me peace today about everything. I think that because of all my busyness the last 5 days my body just couldn't manage to do much today, so I laid around most of the day and then later this afternoon went to Starbucks to finish up Thank you cards. And tonight I was able to go to our Worship service at church. (It started pouring rain as I was leaving and I'm sure I was quite a sight as I'm attempting to walk/waddle as fast as I can to my car so that I don't get drenched.)
I love going to our worship/prayer service because its so relaxed and laid back and unhurried. I love it more than going to church because I can sit and pray or listen or sing my heart out and the presence of God is just unbelievable. We really focused on the holiness and glory of God tonight and then spent time praying for healing for people, for peace, for forgiveness, for those who are in need of work and for those who need to sell a house. That one really hit home for me, Bryan has been working so hard and this week has spent so much time at our old house getting it in the perfect condition to put on the market. Tomorrow is the big day and we really pray that God would bring a buyer for that house. Its a great house and I know He will provide. I spent a lot of time tonight just asking for God's peace..."Fear not, for I am with you". I know God is with me and I know He can accomplish anything He wants...I don't know why I have so much anxiety about having a baby, I have never been this anxious about anything before. I've always been the kind of girl that just trusts God with no reservation and I've always had faith in who God says He is and who God says I am, but for some reason I've really been struggling with that lately. Tonight was so great for me to sit in His presence and let Him just wash over me. If you know me at all you know what a huge part worship plays in my life and that is just what I needed tonight. God - you are so good and so faithful and Holy and Glorious. Thank you for your sacrifice, for dying on the cross for me. I no longer have to live in fear--you have replaced that with your purpose and your love.
So...all that to say, today was quite uneventful, relaxing and rejuvenating. Tomorrow will be packed full of errands again, but I think my body can handle it better after today's rest.
And in case you're wondering what Bryan has been up to lately, he's been at the old house almost every night painting and replacing base boards and putting up new mirrors and hardware in the bathrooms, etc, etc. I'm so glad he's been able to do all that for us and I feel awful that I'm not able to do much. We cannot wait to be done with that project so we can finally relax every night and spend some time together before Jax arrives. I have such a wonderful husband, I cannot even express how lucky I am to have such a man to spend the rest of my life with. He's going to be such an incredible daddy...I cannot wait to see him in action!
Goodnight--see ya'll tomorrow.

Just 9 days to go...

2009-03-24T13:43:00.000-07:00

With just 9 days to go, I ran a bunch of errands today to lighten the load around here. I felt like I had so much to do and only got to half of it because I just got too tired. Had lunch with a work friend, returned things at the mall, returned movies, went to the bank and bought Bryan some yummy dessert for tonight. Not at all everything I wanted to accomplish. So - tomorrow I will attempt to finish the basket covers and my thank you cards and finish my shopping at Babies R' Us and clean out the fridge to make room for other meals and pack my hospital bag, etc etc. We'll see how it all goes. I'm sure tonight will be filled with the old house activities...finding mirrors for the bathrooms and finishing up the paint jobs. But we are almost done with it and can put it on the market--Yeah! If you know of anyone who needs a house-let us know-its in a great neighborhood and its a great price for its location and size.
Not much else to report so I'll sign off and let you know what happens tomorrow.

10 days and counting...

2009-03-23T15:39:00.000-07:00

10 Days and Counting....
With only 10 days plus or minus of baby Jax's arrival, I am starting to feel a little bit strange. All this newness that is about to happen and change our lives forever can be a little overwhelming.
I'll try to update every day if I can in order to keep everyone informed of what's happening. I am dilated to 1 cm and 70% effaced as of Friday and I was told to start walking around a ton to keep progressing. Well, I didn't so much walk around this weekend, but I did spend a lot of time cleaning up our old house to get it ready for sale. My body is now angry with me and I can hardly move, but I figured what better way to get the baby moving than doing some good ole hard work!
My next appointment is not till Friday, so we'll see what happens. In the meantime, I am sewing little basket covers for Jaxon's room and painting the letters to put on the wall...I am such a procrastinator and have not hung things on the wall, but at least his clothes are all washed and organized in his drawers, thanks to my good friends, Meagan and Krista. We'll see what happens tomorrow...

Pictures.

2009-03-13T12:16:00.001-07:00

Here are those pics I promised. I did not do very well at taking pictures with everyone and that makes me sad. I didn't even get any pics with my 2 moms--we need to do one of those soon!

37 week picture

Meagan, Suzanne, Krista, me, Sarah and Julie (2 of these girls are prego too-but only like 8 weeks-they are still so little-lucky girls)

me, Catherine, Dawn, Rachel and Leann

Lauri (all the way from Scotland), her daughter Rachel and my mom.

Dawn, me and Rachel.

The Reeds (my other family) minus Bryce--we missed you buddy!

Cutest shorts ever!

Lyndsay, me and Rachel.

My mom gave me a verse to read while in labor--she's so thoughtful.

Me and Trina!

Me and Catchy!

The last 4 weeks.

2009-03-12T10:59:00.000-07:00

Wow, it has been way too long since I last updated the blog. Bryan and I have been super busy moving into our new house to bring Jaxon home to, unpacking, working and awaiting our newest arrival! I did actually write this long post about 3 weeks ago about our move and then my computer froze so I quit and haven't had a chance since. All my pictures are on my computer at the house, so when I get home I'll add those so you can see what we've been up to.
Yesterday we had the last ultrasound before Jaxon arrives and all is looking good. He is still definitely a boy (although Bryan and I could not see what she was looking at) and he is weighing in at about 6 lbs 6oz. So by the time he comes he should be around 7 1/2 lbs. Thats a great weight for me, I was worried he'd be getting too big, but its just me that's putting on the weight. Haha.
My wonderful friends have thrown me 2 beautiful baby showers, one by my dear friend and old roomie, Catherine, and the other thrown by other dear friends, Krista, Meagan, Suzanne, Sarah and Julie. You girls are all so special to me and I don't know what I'd do without you. We have felt overwhelmed by all the love and support we have been given by our friends and family and we know that you will all be praying for us and encouraging us in our new chapter of life. You all bring such joy to our hearts! Even my mom's best friend who I have known my whole life came in from Scotland to surprise me (her husband was here for business, but still, so sweet that she decided to join him and come celebrate with us). My other sweet friends who are like my second family, the Reeds, came in from Austin to celebrate with us the 1st weekend of March. It was so great to see them and catch up on their lives and I cannot believe how grown up the kids are--I have known the kids since before they were born and I think they were a little surprised to see my prego belly!
Like I said, I'll post some pics later tonight but wanted to give an update on what's been going on these last 4 weeks. Lots of preparing and lots of resting!!

The 7th Month...

2009-02-07T15:57:00.001-08:00

I cannot believe that we are at 32 weeks already...and that I've officially started the 8th month of being pregnant. I feel good most of the time, the usual uncomfortableness(don't think that's a word), but what am I going to do? This is just how things are from here on out so I better get used to it. There is still so much to do but I know it will all fall into place when the time comes. We are all registered and paid up at the hospital so now we're just waiting for the BIG day! well--in 8 weeks we'll be waiting for the big day! I have some baby showers coming up this week and in the next month-it just seems so strange to have a celebration all for me and Jaxon. I hope I don't cry. My friends are so sweet to put them together for me and I'm thrilled to get to see old and new friends and share some special time together. My mom is almost finished with the crib bedding and it looks so beautiful. I can't wait to post some pics of it for you-but maybe I'll wait till its all set up in his room. That's all for now-time to go find some dinner. Enjoy some pics from January....

32 weeks...this is for you Kara!

Ruthie, me, Jamie and Leigh...my fav girls ever!!

Great seats at the Rockettes!

Grandma was here for a visit!

The Rockettes!!

Go Green with your Skin Care!

2009-02-05T08:48:00.000-08:00

Looking to green your skin care?

If so, it'd be tough to do much better than the products from Arbonne International. Arbonne rolls out it's newest line of eco-friendly hair and body products, called FC5.
"FC5? What's that supposed to mean?"
It stands for the delivery of Fresh Cells nutrients from 5 fruits and vegetables. In addition to this line (as well as ALL of Arbonne's products) being certified vegan, it's also paraben free and comes in awesome eco-friendly packaging printed with no-VOC, vegetable based ink!
Arbonne really went above and beyond when it comes to this new line of products. The company has been around for 29 years and has ALWAYS used plant-derived ingredients and has NEVER used any animal products or by-products.I love that this company isn't just hopping on the green bandwagon because it's trendy. No, instead eco-friendliness is built right into Arbonne's corporate DNA...since they were founded.

So What Makes FC5 So Special?
The new Fresh Cell Technology is currently excuslive to Arbonne, and they use it to deliver nutrients from 5 key fruits and vegetables directly to the skin...while remaining fresh until they reach the skin.
Impressive!
Here are the 5 key fruits and veggies (and why they work):
Kiwi - Extraordinary source of antioxidants
Strawberry - Known for its purifying and toning properties
Carrot - Soothes and calms, ripe with Beta-Carotene
Mango - Nuturing and hydrating fruit
Pumpkin - Moisturizing properties and bursting with Beta-Carotene

The 14 products in the FC5 line are also:
Formulated without:
parabens
mineral oil
artificial fragrance or color
phthalates
propylene glycol
PABA
paraffin
petrolatum
diethanolamine
animal derived ingredients (vegan)
Dermatologist and Opthamologist tested
Arbonne's FC5 eco-friendly packaging includes:
FSC certified
Printed with vegetable based inks, so no VOC's
Recyclable

check out more at www.arbonneFC5.com

drum roll please...

2009-01-13T11:36:00.000-08:00

I think we finally decided on a name!!! The key word here being, "think". Maybe when he comes out we might have to change our minds, but for now, this is the name we decided on. Picking a name was all about the meanings for me, Bryan didn't care so much about that, he just wanted a masculine name and something that could not be made fun of. With a last name like Leuenberger, you have to think about these things. I always knew I wanted to use Bryan's middle name, Daniel, which means - "God is my Judge". Then I looked up the name, Jaxon (Jax for short), which means - "God has been gracious, He has shown His favor". So I got really excited because although God is our Judge, we can know that when we trust in Him, He will show is grace, compassion, favor and mercy on us. It just seemed perfect! So then I chose a verse to fit perfectly with his name, Psalm 61:1. It says, "God be gracious to us and bless us, and cause His face to shine upon us; that Your way be known on earth, Your salvation among the nations". I do pray that our little boy would trust in God's salvation for eternal life, and I pray that he would make God's name known on earth and glorify Him only. I can't think of a better prayer for our children and what a job we have as parents to teach our children to trust Jesus as our Savior. Lord, please give me the tools to raise my children to walk with you!

So...for now...

Jaxon Daniel Leuenberger

Its a Party...

2009-01-08T12:37:00.000-08:00

So today our little buddy is 28 weeks old (well, technically -12 weeks because he's not due for another 12 weeks), but I think he decided to celebrate this special day because he has been partying all day. I don't think he's been still for more than a minute. At least one of us is getting some sort of work out because I certainly have been slacking in that area. Does walking around the mall returning clothes and shopping count as a work out? It probably doesn't help that I've eaten an entire box of E.L. Fudge cookies all to myself this week. Those are my favorite!!

Only 13 weeks left...yikes!

2009-01-02T11:55:00.000-08:00

Holy Cow....as of yesterday I am 27 weeks along. When I think of it that way it doesn't seem so bad, but then I think of how much is left, and well, there's only 13 weeks left and that's if our little guy stays in there full term. I cannot believe how fast time has flown and that in just a few short weeks we will finally get to meet this little creature and see his face and know what he looks like, I'm just dying to know what he looks like.

With only 13 weeks to go I am starting to worry about all that needs to get done. Lets see, I have the crib and changing table, thanks to our precious neighbors who gave us theirs, now I just need to find a dresser to match it. My mom and Grandma and I went shopping for fabric the other day and with many hours of now finding what I was looking for, we finally found the perfect bedding fabric at Hobby Lobby, (thanks Hobby Lobby), and I can't wait for it to all come together. I know its going to be perfect. I have work to do, showers to plan, a house to get ready to go on the market, and a new house to finish and move into. Yikes-I hate packing, but I'm working on that while I have some time off. I'm having crazy dreams about his hands and feet sticking way out of my stomach, which is just strange, or that I'm going into labor super super early. I know they're just dreams-but it still freaks me out a little. Every little pain or sore or movement, I wonder-"Is this supposed to be happening?", "What does that pain mean?" Was that a Braxton-Hicks contraction?" Its so weird all these things you feel for your 1st pregnancy, and I know next time will be so much easier and better. At least I'll know what I'm dealing with.

Okay-I think that's enough scattered jumble for now-I'll put some pics of the bedding up as soon as its finished!

Christmas 2008

2008-12-30T15:02:00.001-08:00

Our Trip to Washington DC...

At Union Station waiting for our moonlight tour!

The Whole Fam saying hello to George!

My Beautiful new niece, Ashlin

Playing with the nephews

The Girls

Walking through Georgetown

Christmas is almost here!!!

2008-12-18T12:15:00.000-08:00

Holy Moly--I'm 25 weeks pregnant today! I cannot believe there are only 15 weeks left to go. We have been super busy around the house and with church and work so I haven't posted much and I'll try to take some more pictures soon-at least there will be more after Christmas--I'm sure there will be lots of photo opps!
This weekend will be a crunch to get all the rest of my shopping done, finish my Christmas cards (my hand started hurting last night so I took a break), and baking more goodies...I still need to make Bryan some Texas Trash--ooh that will be good for New Years Eve.
I'm bummed I'm going to miss out of my dad's delicious Egg Nog Martinis this year, I'll just settle for sparkling cider and not have to worry about how much I'm drinking.
No names yet--we'll figure it soon and I'll let you guys know. Its not going to be a secret, but for some reason I'm just not comfortable saying any names out loud yet--once I start doing that I'll let everyone know.
I hope everyone has a great weekend and a wonderful time with your families over the next week. I love this time of year and am going to be sad when it all passes away. Remember to thank our God, who sent His Son into the world to save us from ourselves. We cannot get so focused on gifts and spending or even our families - Jesus was born and the miracle of God's love began to take place in the flesh. I am so amazed at His grace and love and forgiveness and I often forget to sit and rest in God's peace, especially during this time. Thank you God for sending your Son, Jesus, to die in my place so that I could spend eternity with you. I love you!

5 Favorite Things

2008-12-03T13:46:00.000-08:00

Got tagged to do something--not really sure how that works, but I think I actually figured something out...yeah
My favorite 5 in no particular order...
#1 Bryan, the most wonderful husband in the world!
#2 Margaritas (have 4 more months till I can have another--how exciting!!)
#3 Starbucks Peppermint Latte's
#4 Arbonne's Awaken Sea Salt Scrub!
#5 Traveling with Bryan - anywhere!
#6 I know we're only supposed to have 5 but I have to put Christmas--I love Christmas time--its the best season of all!

Now I tag....Lauren, Lacie, Renee and Tracy

Latest Pics

2008-11-30T20:02:00.001-08:00

The Owl in our neighbor's tree last week!! it was huge.More silly belly pics from Thanksgiving. I'm 22 weeks and can't even imagine getting bigger than this--yikes.

Me and Trina....she's poking my belly in a silly fashion. She's so silly.

Happy Thanksgiving...and 22 weeks pregnant!

2008-11-27T21:32:00.000-08:00

Today is Thanksgiving and I am just so thankful for so many things in my life. God is so gracious and loving and I am truly amazed by His goodness. I've always thought that I knew how great an wonderful He was but I now believe that when you are married you truly discover what it means to be really loved by someone. To really know Grace. to know Forgivness. I thank God for loving me and showing His Grace and mercy in my life and for putting this incredible man in my life that reminds me of that every day. I thought I knew what it was to be truly loved by God but I'm discovering it in news ways that I never thought possible. Thank you God for your loving kindness, your gentleness, your mercy. Thank you for your goodness and for you many physicals blessings that you have placed before us. Thank you God for this child in my belly--I pray Lord that you will protect him and keep him healthy. I pray he will grow up to be a man of God who loves you and worships you and seeks to honor you with his life. Thank you for friends and family to share life with and to laugh with and cry with and to grow together and challenge each other to be better. Thank you God for your Son, Jesus, who died in my place so that I could spend eternity with you. I know I'm not perfect and I screw up all the time...I ignore you, I try to do things on my own, I forget your goodness to me, I don't always see you and how you're working all around me and yet you love me. You love me just as I am and I am so thankful for that.

Today I am 22 weeks pregnant. I just cannot believe how fast the time is passing. The beginning seemed to drag on and now all of a sudden its like Wow--we are only 4 months away!! Unbelievable. Our little buddy is kicking and punching and moving around like crazy. Bryan finally felt him kick last Friday, he was so excited about it and amazed at what he felt. Sometimes I can't sleep at night-which is why I'm on the computer right now-because I just hold my hand on my stomach waiting for our little guy to punch my insides. I just love feeling him in there. Although this is fun-I am way more excited for him to be here and grow impatient for that day to come. Now if only we could figure out his name....that will come soon enough.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone....remember what we have to be thankful for and Praise God for his Love, Grace, Salvation, Goodness, and Kindness to us. Use this time to reflect on the good in your life and take time to spread His love and hope to everyone around you. There are so many who really need some hope right now and I pray that when the opportunity presents itself, I will not be too absorbed in my own life to pass it by. I love you guys and I hope you know that you all hold such a dear and precious place in my heart.

1/2 Way There!!

2008-11-13T20:35:00.000-08:00

Today is 20 weeks. Yikes...I can't believe that we're 1/2 way there already. The beginning went by so fast and now time seems to just fly by. I cannot believe that we are only 2 weeks away from Thanksgiving--I sure hope it starts to get cold around here soon. Before we know it, it will be March and we'll be staying up all night wondering if those cramps were labor pains or just a false alarm. I feel like there's so much to do and I can't wait to meet our son. No names yet--that's a ton of pressure and I just can't seem to think of any names too seriously yet. It will come one day-I know. So right now our little one is the length of a banana--a banana, I can't believe that's inside my belly and he weighs about 10 ounces. Holy cow-he's practically doubled in weight in the last 2 weeks. I'm constantly eating and sure hope that stops soon or I am going to be way over my goal weight. Guess I should be working out more than I am...I'll start that next week--haha. Well, that's the latest for now--1/2 way there!!

2008-11-10T07:22:00.000-08:00

Lauren and Me

Bryan being silly!

Lauren and I are just about 3 weeks apart so it was fun to take some pictures with her and of course Bryan wanted to show off his belly too. No worries--he's pushing out as far as it can go. Haha!

It's a BOY!!!

2008-11-06T07:37:00.000-08:00

It's a BOY!! We had an ultrasound yesterday and the doctor said he was very, very active. Thank goodness for that caffeine I drank before the appointment. We are so thrilled and although these pics are not easy to figure out, one is showing his parts to the world and the other is his hand up to his chin, maybe sucking his thumb or something.

18 weeks and counting...

2008-11-04T12:33:00.000-08:00

I am currently 18 weeks pregnant, that means I'm almost 1/2 way through-that seems crazy to me. Right now I feel lots of kicks at night before I go to sleep and when I wake up in the morning. I have a hard time getting out of bed because I just want to sit there and feel the kicks--not a good reason to be late to work-but hey-I can't help it. We are having an ultrasound tomorrow and find out if we are having a boy or a girl and we cannot wait to hear the news. boy girl? boy or girl? We'll be happy with either and want both-so whatever is first is all part of God's plan for our family. Now I'll finally be able to start looking around and picking out all the nursery stuff and strollers, etc. Yeah!

2008-11-04T11:48:00.000-08:00

Well, since everyone keeps asking me for updates and pictures of my growing belly and our growing family, I decided I'd start blogging. Now everyone can come to one place and get their updates. I'm not sure how well I'll do at keeping up but I will try. So.. Enjoy our blog!