Halfway there!

I am officially at the halfway point in my pregnancy... 20 weeks! The baby is now about 6.5 inches long and almost 11 ounces. I had my doctor's appointment this week and found out that my 18-week ultrasound and blood screenings all came back perfect! So I am thankful for that. I also found out that my placenta is in the front, which is the reason why I haven't felt a lot of movement yet. Apparently an "anterior placenta" acts as a cushion in the front, causing it to take longer to feel the baby move. And here I thought she was just a mellow little girl... nope! She's as active as can be, moving all around.

I'm still feeling great, just starting to grow more! My weight gain is now at 12 lb, thanks to all my holiday indulgences. :) Not too bad, considering. We had a wonderful Christmas, and it was so much fun watching Hudson open his "prensents" and get really into it this year. Next year we will be celebrating with another little person!

A Few Recipes...

Here are a few things I made over the holidays that were crowd-pleasers!

Filet au Poivre, courtesy of the Pioneer Woman

Potatoes au Gratin, courtesy of the Pioneer Woman

(I added a pinch of nutmeg to mine.)

Butter Toffee, courtesy of... yes, the Pioneer Woman

(I topped mine with hazelnuts, sea salt & almonds)

(What are quickly becoming) my "famous" Chocolate-Dipped Coconut Macaroons

And a Caramelized Onion, Goat Cheese, Tomato & Basil Tart

(from our cooking class earlier this month)

(Yield: 4 servings)

Ingredients

• 4 Puff Pastry Squares

• 1/4 cup olive oil

• 2 yellow onions, thinly sliced

• Sea salt and black pepper, to taste

• 4 oz. goat cheese

• 8 heirloom tomatoes, halved

• 4 oz. fresh basil

• 2 oz. reduced balsamic vinegar

Filling

• Heat olive oil in a sauté pan over medium high heat.

• Add thinly sliced onions and cook until caramelized, about 20 minutes.

• Season with salt and pepper, to taste.

• With a fork, dock center of each pastry square. Then top the pastry with caramelized onions, basil

leaves, tomatoes and goat cheese on top.

• Put pastry in oven and bake at 375°F for about 15 minutes or until pastry is puffed and golden

brown around the edges.

• Remove from oven when done and top with chiffonade basil and reduced balsamic.

I would highly recommend any of these recipes!!

Family Photos 2010

Here are some family photos we had taken by my cousin, Jon. You can view his blog here.

15 weeks

Here is a recent photo of the bump! The baby is now the size of a naval orange - 4 inches, 2.5 oz

Thankful on Paper : week four

I can't have a month of thanks without mentioning my husband!

That being said, it's hard to sum up all the things I want to say about Brandon. He's a wonderful husband, father and friend. I love how we do life together. There is no one I would rather spend my time with... even if we are doing absolutely nothing. He is my best friend, and he truly has my back in any situation.

When I've had a tough day, he gives Hudson his bath so that I can lay on the couch and relax. When he gets home from work before me, he starts dinner. He gets Hudson ready for school in the morning and packs his lunch. He puts flannel sheets on our bed when it gets cold so that it is extra comfy for us when we go to bed. These are just a few silly things that mean so much to me.

Over the last few years, we have really grown together - in our maturity and in our faith. He challenges me to get out of my comfort zone. We have had some ups and downs (I can do without any more injuries/surgeries, thank you) but through it all, we have tried to focus on the silver lining (there has always been one), and we have learned what is truly important in life.

I am so thankful for having such an amazing man to share my life with. Cheers to many, many more Thanksgivings!

Thankful on Paper : week three

This week I wrote to my good friend, Erin, who I met back in 2003 when I moved into the apartment next door to her. We hit it off instantly and were practically inseparable from that point on! We ended up working together at Outback and would spend most of our free time together (usually involving a bar, but what do you expect from 21-year-olds?) And it was on the same day in July 2004 that we started dating our now-husbands.

We've had so many great memories together, and we have also been there for each other during tough times. We have spent countless hours laying around on the couch, talking about whatever drama we had going on in our lives. Erin always gives it to me straight, and I really appreciate that quality in her. She stood up with me the day I got married, and I was able to do the same for her a few months later.

Unfortunately, we are no longer neighbors - she actually lives in Northern California now - but she is still one of my very best friends. I was able to visit her last month and meet her new baby girl, and it was great being able to lay around on the couch having girl talk again... just like old times (minus the dirty martinis and late-night Del Taco!) Luckily we have both grown up since we were crazy, single 21-year-olds... but regardless of how old we get, she will always have a special place in my heart!

We're having a...

GIRL!!

Yesterday, we went for an early gender detection ultrasound. I've had a few friends who have found out the gender of their babies at 13-14 weeks, so I figured I would try to sneak a peek! The tech told us that it was a baby girl! Apparently she saw the "3 lines" or "3 dots" that signify a girl. Obviously, I would have been happy with a boy or a girl, but I would be lying if I said I wasn't thinking "No penis, no penis..." while I was on that table... ha ha. We are all very excited to be adding some pink to our family. From the very beginning, Hudson said he wanted a baby sister, so I guess he's getting what he wanted!

We will be naming our little girl London Lorraine. Lorraine is my grandpa's name, and for a while now, we've thought it would make a great middle name. After we found out the gender, I called my grandpa to make sure it was okay with him to use his name for our daughter. He replied, "That would be fine." If you know my grandpa, you know he is a rough and gruff kind of guy- a man of few words. So I knew even by this simple phrase that he thought it was pretty cool. I'm sure he's told a few friends at the donut store already.

Thankful on Paper : week two

This week I wrote to my mom. My mom lives 1,721 miles away from me, and I hate it. But even with all that distance between us, we are extremely close. I actually think we have become closer as the miles apart increased. Over the last 15 years, she and my step-dad have left everything behind (TWICE) to go where God has led them. Selfishly, I ask God (regularly) to lead them back to Southern California. :)

Growing up, my mom was pretty strict. She was the mom that wrote medical release forms for every outing I went on with friends (that's not embarrassing when you're 14...), would make me stop by her room to tell her when I got home every night (like I could sneak in anyways... how are moms such light sleepers?!), and would tell me countless things to which I would respond, "I know, Mom." But looking back, I am so grateful for all of those things because I know she did them out of genuine love and concern. And I will probably be guilty of doing the same with my kids!

In the last 5 years, my mom has become one of my closest friends. Through good times and bad, she has always been there for me, and she hasn't just listened... she's felt the joy and pain with me. She has always given me her honest opinion, even when it's not what I wanted to hear. She is extremely thoughtful, kind and has the highest integrity. I am so blessed to have her as my mom.

12 weeks!

Here are some new pics from this morning's ultrasound. I asked the tech if she saw anything between the legs, and she said she didn't, but that it is still early! We have an "early gender determination" ultrasound on Sunday, so we'll see if we get any results then!

"The Giving Tree" as Brandon calls it. :)

This was a crazy weekend... we moved out of our condo and into a house. We are all so happy to have more space, but the moving process is never fun. I think you always underestimate how much stuff you really have! Anyway, we managed to get everything out and we are enjoying our new home and backyard!! I think the greatest moment for Brandon and me was watching Hudson and Gunnar (our chocolate lab) running around together in the backyard. That made all the hassle worth it already.

I am so thankful that I have been feeling good throughout this pregnancy, and somehow I was able to keep my energy up throughout the weekend and don't feel too tired today. (Thank you, Lord.)

Thankful on Paper : week one

This month I am participating in "Thankful on Paper" which basically means that once a week, I tell someone -- on paper -- that I am thankful for them and why.

I started off by writing to my mother-in-law, Joan. She is an amazing woman. Besides the fact that she raised her son (my wonderful hubby) alone from the time he was a few months old, worked multiple jobs and went to school, all while making sure they had fun together, even though they didn't have money... she is one of the most generous and selfless people I know. She would and has dropped everything to help us out when we've been in a bind. She has played many roles: babysitter, nurse, personal shopper, chef and maid, just to name a few. I don't think the word "inconvenience" is in her vocabulary. She is happy to help in any way she can. Aside from all these wonderful things, she is also a strong woman of God and looks for any and every opportunity to minister and bless others, whether it be missions trips to Uganda or Mexico, or counseling a woman she meets at the local bakery. She has such a heart for people, and I am truly blessed to know her.

Thank you, Joan, for being such an incredible part of our lives.

Halloween 2010

I wish I could tell you about our fun weekend, filled with candy, costumes, pony rides, pumpkins and so on... but instead we were sick and missed out on all the fun!

On Friday we were planning to go to Hudson's school for Harvest Day. They were going to have a fun concert for the kids, pony rides, a bouncy house, a petting zoo and lots of great activities! But Thursday night, Hudson woke up sick in the middle of the night and that lasted all of Friday.

On Sunday we were planning to go to Saddleback Church's "Blocktober" Party. However, early Sunday morning, I woke up with the stomach flu was sick all day. Brandon also got it in the afternoon, so we weren't feeling too festive.

I was bummed that we missed out on all the fun, but luckily Hudson didn't realize what we were missing. (I'm sure that will change next year.) On Monday I decided to have a "Halloween Re-do" and put him in his costume to at least snap a few pictures.

So... I give you...

Hudson the Drooling Dragon!!

ROAR!

*He may not breathe flames on you, but he will definitely slobber all over you! Thanks, 2-year-molars!

Pumpkin Patch

On Friday, Hudson and I went to the Pumpkin Patch with Danielle and Brody. The boys had so much fun! They loved looking at the ponies and the rides, but when we'd ask, "Do you want to go on that?" both of them said at the same time, "No!" Lucky for us, they are cheap dates at this age... perfectly happy just watching. We did go into the petting zoo, which Brody loved. Hudson seemed to get annoyed with the hay on his shoes, so he didn't last long, but he did go in the bouncy house, and then didn't want to leave! Aunt Laura met us there and got some great shots of the boys. Every day now, Hudson asks to go to the Pumpkin Patch... wonder how long this will last!

News...

Hudson is going to be a big brother! We are thrilled to be expecting another baby on May 20th, 2011. So far I am feeling really good (no morning sickness, thank goodness!) and the baby is looking great.

Here's a picture of the newest member of the Myers family:

New Camera

I got a new camera for my birthday, so I took Hudson down to the train station in San Juan Capistrano to test it out!

2 Years Old

32 pounds

35 1/2 inches tall

size 8 shoes

Hudson is 2!

What a weekend! Friday was Hudson's actual birthday, so we started out the day at Kiddie Gym. All the kids sang 'Happy Birthday' while Hudson plopped himself in the center of the circle. Too funny. After Kiddie Gym, we met up with Daddy for lunch at Cafe Rio (one of our new faves). Hudson enjoyed his cheesy quesadilla. Then we polished off lunch with a trip to Yogurtland! Unfortunately, even birthday boys need their rest, so after that it was time for a snooze. Ga-ga came over in the afternoon with presents! Then she stayed to play with Hudson so we could hit up Costco for all the party food!

Yesterday was Hudson's party at Flo-Jo Park. It was a beautiful day and the weather wasn't too hot, especially under all the shade. We had a wonderful day celebrating our little man's birthday with all our family and close friends! 

Here's what we grubbed on:

BBQ Pork Sliders with Swish Slaw

Team Mom's Coconut Macaroons (dipped in chocolate, of course)

Backcourt Burgers with Extra Sharp White Cheddar/Jalapeño Muenster Cheese

3-Point Potato Salad

Team Captain's Cupcakes in Strawberry, Carrot Cake & Dark Blue (Devil's food cake w/ blueberries)

I guess Hudson's didn't feel his outfit was complete, so he decided to take a spill 30 minutes before the party started, and ended up with a large scrape on his face and knee! That didn't stop him from having fun though! All in all, it was a fabulous day. We all slept very well last night. :)

My Big Preschooler

Yesterday was Hudson's first day of preschool! He is attending a Christian school about a mile from home. Technically, school doesn't start until September, but they offer a summer camp with fun activities and lessons, and we felt it would be a good way for Hudson to get acclimated before the fall. 

His first day went great- his teacher said he listened really well. He was a little confused at nap time because he's not used to sleeping on a cot with other kids in the room, but he'll get the hang of it. When I picked him up, he didn't want to leave. I waited a few minutes, but eventually had to carry him out against his will! I guess that's a good thing, but it can be a bit challenging to carry 31 pounds of uncooperative weight. :) 

I asked Hudson about his day and he said "Bikes!!" then waited a few seconds and said "Trash truck!!" and "Basketball!" By the way, Hudson thinks any large, noisy vehicle is a trash truck... but in his defense, the school is having a trash truck visit today to talk about "Going Green" so I'm sure he was referring to that. All in all, it was a great start to preschool! Yay Hudson!!

Wrap-Up

Hudson's blog has been a bit neglected these days... so here's a summary of what we've been up to: 

May 9th: I celebrated my 2nd official Mother's Day! My mom also came out for the weekend, so it was great having her here. It had been almost a year since we'd seen her. She stayed with us one night, and Hudson had a great time playing with his Grandma Bev.

May 30th: Celebrated my dad's birthday at Outback. I hadn't been back there for about 3 years, so it was a little strange revisiting my old stomping grounds. :) 

June 6th: Brandon & I headed out to Palm Springs for a night. Hudson stayed with Gramma Joan while we relaxed at the Parker! We had an amazing time. The hotel was beautiful, we ate some great food, and I even got a massage. It was a much needed break from our day-to-day life.

June 12th: Hudson & I went out to Murrieta for my cousin Amber's baby shower, which was really nice! Her baby, Weston, will be arriving in August.

June 13th: We celebrated Grammy's 94th birthday at Knott's Chicken House (a tradition). I think we had about 25 people this time, and we were quite the sight, I'm sure. :) Hudson got his first taste of boysenberry punch- yum!

The Refinery

On of Hudson's favorite places to go is The Refinery at Saddleback Church.  On Fridays, we attend Kiddie Gym here, and on Tuesdays, Brandon takes him to play basketball and run around. The Refinery was built for the youth of the church, as well as the community. The building itself is beautiful and was made with mostly recycled materials. Inside are 2 basketball courts, pool tables, ping pong, video games, foosball, flat screen TVs, cafes, etc. Outside is a sand volleyball court, waterfall, BBQs and skateboard/BMX ramps. If I were in high school, I would be hanging out here all the time! :) Hudson is too young for a lot of the things offered, but he still loves running around, pushing the button for the elevator, and playing basketball. We are so grateful for such a cool place, just a few miles from home! Oh, and by the way... Hudson knows the way to church. As soon as we make a right at the light down the hill from home, he gets really excited. And down the street from church, he starts saying "Yay! Ba-goo-goo!" (This can be problematic if I need to make a LEFT and go grocery shopping...)