Together Forever

Ahlyssa

2011-10-25T16:23:00.000-07:00

I haven't updated Ahlyssa's doings for her baby book so I am doing this mainly to add to that. I never updated what she was doing and loving at 2 years old, so I am doing it a bit late. Okay, a lot late, she's almost THREE!

~love playing mommy to your baby dolls

~love dora, barney, sponge bob, disney princess, bubble guppies, team oomie zoomie, mickey mouse, angelina ballerina, max & ruby (oh the list goes one)

~love your dance class

~ring around the rosie has been a fav or awhile now

~can count to 12 and can count backwards from 4-5

~getting better at colors

~can use scissors VERY well, can cut on a line we draw

~love talking to stranger and waving at them

~usually carry a purse when we go out on errands or your baby doll

~a huge people watcher, you LOVE watching people

~potty trained during day but not night time yet

~very good at listening to directions BUT when it comes to getting dressed its a battle

~always want your hair done the way YOU want it done

~always using your little rubber bands to do hair of everything you have. even your puppy dog's ears has rubber bands in it

~love playing with play dough

~love playing with daddy and being chased by him

~can say the last word to every page of your bedtime book, "If the Savior Stood Beside Me"

~you sing with me at bedtime to the song, "He Came For Me"

~you are always getting in trouble in the car because you unbuckle the straps and know that I can't do anything about it at that moment so you take FULL advantage

~can put on your own underwear and pants, still working on shirts

~love doing puzzles on the iPad, and you surprise us how well you do

Invisible Mother

2011-09-12T19:52:00.000-07:00

My sister posted this on facebook last week from morningsun.net. I loved it so much I felt that every mother/woman should read it. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.

Invisible Mother By ANDRA STEFANONI

It all began to make sense, the blank stares, the lack of response, the way one of the kids will walk into the room while I'm on the phone and ask to be taken to the store. Inside I'm thinking, “Can't you see I'm on the phone?' Obviously not; no one can see if I'm on the phone, or cooking, or sweeping the floor, or even standing on my head in the corner, because no one can see me at all. I'm invisible. The Invisible Mom.

Some days I am only a pair of hands, nothing more: Can you fix this? Can you tie this?Can you open this??Some days I'm not a pair of hands; I'm not even a human being. I'm a clock to ask, 'What time is it?' I'm a satellite guide to answer, “What number is the Disney Channel?' I'm a car to order, “Right around 5:30, please.”I was certain that these were the hands that once held books and the eyes that studied history and the mind that graduated summa cum laude - but now they had disappeared into the peanut butter, never to be seen again. She's going, she's going, she's gone!?

One night, a group of us were having dinner, celebrating the return of a friend from England. Janice had just gotten back from a fabulous trip, and she was going on and on about the hotel she stayed in. I was sitting there, looking around at the others all put together so well. It was hard not to compare and feel sorry for myself. I was feeling pretty pathetic, when Janice turned to me with a beautifully wrapped package, and said, “I brought you this.' It was a book on the great cathedrals of Europe. I wasn't exactly sure why she'd given it to me until I read her inscription:

To Charlotte, with admiration for the greatness of what you are building when no one sees.

In the days ahead I would read - no, devour - the book. And I would discover what would become for me, four life-changing truths, after which I could pattern my work: No one can say who built the great cathedrals - we have no record of their names. These builders gave their whole lives for a work they would never see finished. They made great sacrifices and expected no credit. The passion of their building was fueled by their faith that the eyes of God saw everything.

A legendary story in the book told of a rich man who came to visit the cathedral while it was being built, and he saw a workman carving a tiny bird on the inside of a beam. He was puzzled and asked the man, “Why are you spending so much time carving that bird into a beam that will be covered by the roof, no one will ever see it.” And the workman replied, “Because God sees.” I closed the book, feeling the missing piece fall into place. It was almost as if I heard God whispering to me, “I see you, Charlotte. I see the sacrifices you make every day, even when no one around you does. No act of kindness you've done, no sequin you've sewn on, no cupcake you've baked, is too small for me to notice and smile over. You are building a great cathedral, but you can't see right now what it will become.”

At times, my invisibility feels like an affliction. But it is not a disease that is erasing my life. It is the cure for the disease of my own self-centeredness. It is the antidote to my strong, stubborn pride.I keep the right perspective when I see myself as a great builder. As one of the people who show up at a job that they will never see finished, to work on something that their name will never be on. The writer of the book went so far as to say that no cathedrals could ever be built in our lifetime because there are so few people willing to sacrifice to that degree.

When I really think about it, I don't want my son to tell the friend he's bringing home from college for Thanksgiving, '”My Mom gets up at 4 in the morning and bakes homemade pies, and then she hand bastes a turkey for three hours and presses all the linens for the table.” That would mean I'd built a shrine or a monument to myself. I just want him to want to come home. And then, if there is anything more to say to his friend, to add, “You're gonna love it there.”

As mothers, we are building great cathedrals. We cannot be seen if we're doing it right. And one day, it is very possible that the world will marvel, not only at what we have built, but at the beauty that has been added to the world by the sacrifices of invisible women.
Copyright 2008 Morning Sun. Some rights reserved

Oh the Joys

2011-08-23T20:36:00.000-07:00

My little Ahlyssa. She's quite the character. After I got done deep cleaning the bathroom and kitchen, this is what I got to do next. Just about every square foot was covered with some kind of toy. Really though I was glad for the time to just clean with no little tootsies in the way. (I finally was able to upload pictures as you can tell. Although these are from my phone so I don't know why Blogger won't let me upload pics from my camera..oh well.)

No pictures?

2011-08-08T16:40:00.000-07:00

Well I had some pictures to upload here but I can't get pictures uploaded. I tried a few weeks ago and couldn't then either. Anyone know what I might be doing wrong?

I have found...

2011-07-16T16:00:00.001-07:00

the house of my dreams...
(but it kind of looks like it needs to be on the Atlantic Ocean...South Carolina maybe?)

Family Fun Day

2011-07-16T15:28:00.000-07:00

Kenworth (Brian's work) had a family fun day. We had a really good time. There were several bounce houses, face painting, popcorn, snow cones, water slides, train rides, truck rides and tours, lunch, and tours of the plant. Kenworth really takes care of their employees and everything was free. It was fun to see where Brian works his hiney off. I definitely have a great appreciate for what he does. But he loves his job and that's awesome. When we walked in, it was SO overwhelming. I couldn't imagine having to learn all that mess. Thank goodness for husbands that will do anything to support their families!

**I can't get pictures loaded so I will try again later**

....

2011-07-12T16:01:00.000-07:00

I think we are all settled in. It doesn't feel like home as of yet. Once I get the pictures hung I think it will be homier. Summer is just breezing by. Ahlyssa is having lots of fun with cousins, spending the nights, swimming, that sort of things. Right now she is hanging out with her cousin Ava. I will get some pictures up soon of the new place. I still have drapes that I want to make for all the rooms. We feel very blessed to have our new place and excited to make it ours. Hopefully the next post I'll have pictures!

LOVE

I guess its been awhile.

2011-06-09T12:15:00.001-07:00

Doesn't this seem like the reoccurring theme of this blog? I guess I just get a bit involved in day to day life or maybe reading other people's blogs or facebook...I don't know.

Boy how things have changed...(no, not our family size!)

For the past year we have been living with Brian's parent. It was only supposed to be a few months but Brian lost his job in November and just recently found a new one the beginning of May. We have been so grateful for our families support financially and emotionally through this time. We found a beautiful apartment in the Lancaster area which we will be moving into June 30th. We are pretty excited about that. We have had the opportunity to learn many new things and our lives have been blessed tremendously through the trails we have experienced this past year.

Brian is 2nd counselor in the Elder's Quorum. He loves the calling and the many opportunities to serve. His new job is a place called Kenworth Trucks. They build custom semi trucks. Brian has a good time there...he loves the guys he works with. Brian is celebrating his 10 year high school reunion this weekend..he's not to sure what to think about that..mainly because THAT WAS TEN YEARS AGO!

Elyse is the 1st counselor in Primary and loving every minute of that. The primary is smaller than what she is used to but the kids are AWESOME! Elyse is has worked at and since stopped working at Kmart. She FINALLY gets the opportunity to be a SAHM (stay at home mom). Something she has always wanted. She is setting a goal to start school the fall quarter....wish her luck!

Ahlyssa is one little firecracker. She talks and questions all the time. Always wanting to know what's going on. She is a social little thing. She likes chitchatting with the cashiers or waitresses. She LOVES dancing. Her and Ava (her cousin 4yrs old) do this dance that Ava learned in tap class. Ahlyssa loves playing with her older cousins. I think she thinks she's their ages. She is so funny with the facial expressions she makes...(definitely Brian's little girl) Ahlyssa LOVES playing outside (with no shoes) and now swimming. Now we just need to work on the potty training! She is such a blessing to us!

Well as we get settled in our new "home" we'll update again...until then.

LOVE

I thought maybe I should update a bit...

2010-06-02T19:57:00.000-07:00

Ahlyssa turned 16 months old a few days ago...

(the picture is blurry because it's pretty much impossible to get her to stand still for picture now)

-she is doing all sorts of fun things.

-She can pretty much communicate to me what she wants or needs (which is so nice)

-She LOVES to be outside

-Throwing temper tantrums when she doesn't get what she wants

-She has learned that she can take the cushions off the couch to climb onto the couch

-She knows what a "doggie" says. She are working on other animals.

-Hates having her hair done, but LOVES when we stoke it

-Likes to help put dishes away, make the beds, fold laundry, and surprisingly..put toys away....I'll take it while it last!

-Says: dada, mama, thank you (this is so clear its crazy), won't say more but will do sign language, no, duck, kitty, dog, ruff, quack, baby, book, bath, drink, this, bye bye, hug, ball, yogurt, I like it, Love you

-Starting to run...its so funny!

Brian and I went to Myrtle Beach for about 5 days and it was SO NICE. We miss Ahlyssa like C. R.A.Z.Y. though.

We are moving at the end of June. I am so sad to leave my little apartment that Brian and I made our home and brought our little bundle of joy to. I am excited though to GET OUT OF THIS AREA! We live in the uptown ghetto. We will be moving into Brian's parent's house for 3 months and then moving to Pickerington. I will be quitting my job for that time period and will start back there when we come back. Brian will get to QUIT the paper route and only have ONE job. I think since Brian and I have been married one of us has had a second job so it will be so nice to have a somewhat normal schedule. At least I will have him in the middle of the night again! <3>

BYE BYE

2010-05-03T12:27:00.000-07:00

CAN'T WAIT...

Williams Warriors

2010-04-13T19:18:00.000-07:00

Since the minute my family moved into the Pickerington Ward, I have had a special place for the Williams family in my heart. Susan was my seminary teacher, Jay was always either in charge of the youth or in the bishopric, the girls I looked up to, and the boys I adored.

They are an INCREDIBLE family. You hear this ALL the time, but the Williams are the people everyone strives to be like because the emulate the Savior so well. You can just feel the love they have for our Heavenly Father and Savior Jesus Christ.

I woke up a morning last week, checked facebook, email, bank account, then checked to see if anyone was up to anything new that week on blogspot. Alli posted a blog about her dad and I couldn't stop the tears from streaming down my face as I ached for her and her family.

Jay was diagnosed with color cancer. The wonderful members of the Church and the Williams family are holding a benefit and auction for them. Please come and support this family battling cancer because the Williams family truly are Warriors.

Jay Williams Benefit and Auction

Friday, April 23rd

5:30-8 p.m.

642 Theron Drive Pickerington (Preston Trails)

There will be a carnival, games, food, auction, inflatables, and much more.

All proceeds will go to the family's medical bills, relocating for better treatment, and being closer to family.

The Love for a Child

2010-03-21T18:23:00.000-07:00

I never knew how much a mother could actually love a child....

until I met her.

She brings so much joy, love, happiness, light, and completeness to my life. I want to give her the world and take on all her pain. I want her to have many friends and be a self-less citizen to this country. I want her to never feel heartache and to be confident. I want her to always stay in contact with me and know I will always be there for her now matter what choices she makes in life. Most of all I want her to always remember she is a daughter of our loving Heavenly Father.

I have a small small glimpse of how our Father in Heaven feels for us.

i figured it out....

2010-03-10T20:38:00.000-08:00

before i die i want to........

CREATE MY OWN CHILDREN'S CLOTHING LINE

it will be called fourteen. why you ask?
well ahlyssa is in a weird stage. go to the department store you have 12 months and then 18 months. she's too tall for 12 months, but 18 months fall off of her and are too long so lets meet in the middle and introduce 14 months. my line will feature 14 month clothing but also have the other sizes. but first i need to learn how to draw and sew! how do you get a clothing line sold in department stores anyway??

my BABY is growing into a TODDLER

2010-02-27T06:37:00.000-08:00

Ahlyssa--13 months-throwing temper tantrums...

this is first because you are throwing one now....just started this little phase!

-blow kisses

-say dada, nah night, buh bye, baby, ball, paw paw, hi, hello, thank you. (these are not all clear)

-you actually stood up from sitting today and have a taken a few steps here and there but you don't seem all that interested in walking

-you know where you belly, eyes and nose are (you get eyes and nose sometimes confused)

-favorite food at the moment is mashed potatoes, yogurt, and apple juice

-like to "read" to yourself

-anytime a musical commercial or show comes on you dance (its more like sway)

-you like talk radio

-favorite song is "I Will Be There" by MJ

-favorite toy is your baby doll, shopping cart, and books (mainly the ones that will glide across the floor nicely so when you go surfing on them it glides smoothly)

-you like when we chase you around the couch
-love to play ball
-point at things when you want them

-you could eat ALL DAY if we let you

--we love you baby girl. you have been such a blessing to watch grow and learn all these new things <3--

The Buried Life

2010-02-02T13:31:00.000-08:00

I have become a fan of this show. I try not to watch MTV because most of the stuff on that channel is absolutely disgusting but I have come to really like "The Buried Life". Yes, the guys on there are a little goofy but they can really give me a chuckle.
If you haven't seen the show, they have a list of a 100 things they want to do before they die. Each one they accomplish and can cross off they go around and ask strangers what they want to do before they die. They then help them accomplish that goal for that particular stranger. At the end of the each show they have a few people talking about what they want to do and it got me thinking. "Oh man that's easy. I totally know what I would want." Then I got to thinking, and I cannot come up with anything. I mean obviously I want to have more children and see them have children. I want to help others. I want to get my bachelors and master's degree. I want to get out of debt including car and school loans. But some of the things on these guys list are like Make A Toast At A Strangers Wedding or Dance With Ellen DeGeneres--things of that nature. So my question to you is:

What do you want to do before you die?

leave a comment because I am really interested.

ahlyss's first bday party

2010-01-30T18:49:00.000-08:00

k so yesterday we took ahlyssa to her one year doctor appointment. she got 4 shots plus a prick in the toe, she lost weight, found out she has brochitias, has really REALLY sensitive skin (like when we just touch her she turns a deep shade of red), and she is anemic. luckily all of that is fixable and not horrible news. i felt so bad because for a week now she has had brochitias and i never took her in but they don't do anything for it anyway so we'll just have to wait it out--doc said it takes like 4-6 weeks for the cough to go away...what?!
for her skin we are supposed to apply adult lotion to toughen her skin up. i thought maybe she was allergic to the lotion we were using. didn't know someone could be that sensitive to touch!
i knew when doctor said she was going to do a test for anemia that she would be. i have been anemic for probably my entire life so i figured as much. we just have to give her drops.
she's lost weight which was a complete surprise to us. she really likes to eat so that shocked us. but she has been sick this week and about 2 weeks ago she had a little virus. her weight is in the 65 percentile and height is 98!! my big little girl!

now onto the pArTaAaY!

a lady named judy at kroger does the most amazing cakes! looked just like the decorations!

you can tell she doesn't feel well :(

she was playing with her skirt and it snapped back at her and was hiked up her belly. looked hilarious!!

i really thought ahlyssa would go crazy with the cake but she was so dainty about it!

then sucked every last bit off! haha

we had a great time and are so lucky to have such great friends and family. we missed those of you that couldn't be there!

ONE YEAR

2010-01-27T12:35:00.000-08:00

AHLYSSA BRIANN-ONE YEAR OLD

(poor sickly baby)

-getting 4 teeth on top...total of 6

-will say mama, dada, nahnah (nah night), pawpaw, bahbah (bah bye) ----we have to say it first though

-we will say "go get baby" and you'll find your baby doll and give her hugs and kisses

-doing better and steadying yourself on your own but no walking yet

-obsessed with the toilet paper

-every time "Who Is It" by Michael Jackson comes on you get so excited and will dance to it!

-starting to throw tantrums..not too often tho :)

-you think you need to be eating whenever anyone else is...even if you JUST ate

-love books

-love bath time and standing in the bath (which scares mommy)

we love you baby girl and this past year has been a huge blessing to watch you grow!

one. year. old.

2010-01-27T12:10:00.000-08:00

we had a lil family birthday thing. actually it wasn't much. brian didn't get home until 7.30pm and ahlyssa has been sick so she was so tired so we gave her a couple of gifts and it was off to bed for her. erika and my mom did come over during the day and she got a fisher price snail and we had a little baby cake. (her "real" party will be on saturday!)

big smile (although that paci is in the way :(

getting into it!

looking at the book.

brian stuck the bag on her head. lol :)

happy and ready for bed :)

updates

2010-01-27T11:59:00.000-08:00

here's some updated pictures of ahlyssa. she has been sick for about 2 of last 4 weeks so we've spent alot of time at home in jammies.

ahlyssa likes to stand here and watch for daddy.

i love this look.

she likes doing this. must be a different view point. lol.

hanging out. bff.

11 months

2009-12-29T20:34:00.001-08:00

AHLYSSA BRIANN

11 MONTHS-love following anyone into the bathroom or closet

-hate the vaccum and hairdryer

-will walk along/with things

-will stand for a couple seconds alone

-can't have dairy products AT ALL as of right now, possibly could be allergic

-talk gibberish

-will mimic anything we DO but won't SAY the things we say

-love all kinds of different foods

-love the shopping cart that drandma care got you (yes Drandma)

-love being around other kiddies

-love waving bye bye to daddy in the mornings

-will head bunt if we put our head to yours

-get jealous when mom and dad hold other kids

-can totally hold your own

-you and casen "fight" actually quite funny to watch

-finally starting to warm up to people

we love you baby girl.

Little Ones LLC

2009-12-04T09:20:00.000-08:00

(here's an example of just ONE of MANY)

I absolutely LOVE these bows. A friend of mine sent me a couple and I have gotten so many compliments on them. She's having a giveaway so make sure you enter! http://www.littleonesllc.com

10 months...

2009-11-27T21:27:00.000-08:00

Ahlyssa--TEN MONTHS

(i gave up trying to get a good picture. i guess that's what i have to expect when she's on the move!)

--crawling

--will pull up onto knees when holding onto something

--loving Elmo

--loving keys

--love the Family Guy commercial (stewy says "mom, mom, ma, mommy, mom, mama, mom, ma, ma, mommy.......HI." *grin*)

--got a big girl car seat

--hate getting into the car seat

--you gave up your bottle on your own

--can't have dairy right now, may be allergic or lactose intolerant

--love Italian

celebrated your first Thanksgiving on your 10 month birthday

--very feisty

--big time separation anxiety

we love you baby girl.

p.s. Merry Christmas! we are decorating Sunday! :) :) :)

9 months stats

2009-11-14T20:11:00.000-08:00

Ahlyssa went to the doctor yesterday:

weighs: 22 lbs (89%)
height: 29.something (97%!!!!)
head circumference: large (i can't remember) but doctor mention that she wasn't too concerned about it because its in the round-about percentile as the rest of her. (that's been the pattern). Apparently she thought at one point it was large enough to question it and mention that to me....well see in months to come.

She's our big growing girl! Doctor said that from what she can see, Ahlyssa is developing perfectly. And her social skills are great. Today she pulled herself into a standing position but I think it will be awhile before she walks. She doesn't quite understand the moving her feet part to move around.

what a week!

2009-11-06T10:40:00.000-08:00

So I don't think I ever realized how much I absolutely NEED my husband.

When we first got married I wanted to do everything by myself and do it my way. Well when I realized that I was doing way too much, working 2 jobs, paying bills, taking care of house work, school it started to take a toll on me and I then started asking for help.

On Monday, Brian went in to have surgery to get his umbilicord hernia fixed. I thought, "really this can't be that bad, he'll be out for a day and things will be back to normal." Boy wrong was I! I think he thought it would be better then he thought. I mean he's gotten a week of work from the bank!

I waited in the waiting for them to stitch him up and it took about an hour. Luckily my mom watched Ahlyssa (thank you mom!) and it took Brian about half hour to wake up.

Walking in to see him, pale and hooked up to monitors and half asleep was a little weird to see and honestly would rather not ever see that again.

For some reason they told him "they couldn't find me" so when I walked in to see him the first thing he said was "were u beeeen? you said you beeee heeeere." (exact words and drawn out like that, still heavily medicated). I told him I was waiting for him and he preceded to tell the like 1,002 times that the nurses "tricked" him. He thought they would have him count backwards then they'd know he was "out". Well instead they had him tell the nurses where he wanted to go on vacation. He was so excited to tell them but never had the chance because obviously the whole purpose to know when he was "out" and they go "out" quick. Some of the things he said were SO FUNNY. Probably somethings not to be repeated! But the nurses had a few laughs too!

(driving home...drugged)

We get his meds and get home and he doesn't do very well at first. Its hurts to sit, gets dizzy to walk, can't get up by himself, and so on. On top of that I have a 9 month old crying because she sees daddy lying on the couch and thinks that the world revolves around her and we should ALWAYS be paying attention to her. On top of that he can't pick up more then 20 pounds which puts out picking up Ahlyssa. (He does try to talk to her and play from afar with her). At this point I think "this is going to the worst week ever".

WRONG!

(Ahlyssa sitting beside him...listening to a story..giving ME a break!)

Although getting up in the middle of the night to help with his paper route and to come immediately to take care of Ahlyssa to making sure Brian is taking medication at the right times so he isn't in pain and making sure everyone is fed, and everything else on top of that-I have found the blessings in service. I totally and completely have respect for what my husband does and the hard work he puts in everyday. At some point I just lost my self and willing served my husband the way I should and not expect anything back in return. (I will admit, I did complain a few times about the paper route.) I loved hearing him quietly call my name because he needed help getting up or needed something to drink (but didn't quite want to because he knew I was tired and busy doing something else). This experience has strengthen my testimony in a few different areas. Prayer, service, the way a family works, the way a marriage works, and my Savior Jesus Christ and His selfless atoning sacrifice.

He is off at work today and I miss him terribly.

sad day....

2009-10-31T13:16:00.000-07:00

last bottle: 10.30.09
My baby has given up her bottle. Ahlyssa, for some reason, would be more interested in playing and looking around then drinking out of her bottle, SO we made the decision to take them away. (She would constantly throw the bottle to the side and start rolling around or let it drip out of her mouth.) I was afraid that if I kept forcing it, then she would eventually get so hooked that it would be REALLY REALLY difficult to take them away in a few months. She has done really well with her sippy cups since she was like 5 or 6 months old, so we give her the formula in the sippys. And so far today she has done awesome. This is like one of those milestones and its SAD! But I have had to realize that she IS getting old and I have to accept that! :( sad day...

9 MONTHS

2009-10-28T11:40:00.000-07:00

Ahlyssa Briann-9 MONTHS

-shake you head yes and no.

-can wave "bye bye".

-you scream at the top of your lungs: if you want attention, you want something out of reach, you want something we are eating, when we leave the room, when we take something away from you, and because you know that you can do it and do it LOUD!

-we could pretty take away your bottle and baby food and you would be just fine with that, but mommy and daddy aren't ready for you to be done with the bottle...you're still a BABY! :(

-love to play "here come a lil man" and pretend fight with daddy.

-love strings on jackets and sweatshirts.

-love to play with your shoes

-love watching Dancing with the Stars

-you have major separation anxiety

-love feet...eww!

-love spaghetti

-have your 2 bottom teeth budding, won't be long until they break through.

we are just loving yoou soooo muuuch, boo boo!

really?

2009-10-27T13:54:00.000-07:00

Yes Ahlyssa turned 9 months old yesterday. And I haven't blogged about her 9 month post...but everytime I get on the computer she screams, SCREAMS at me so I will have to write later.

oh boy a bunch of random things...

2009-10-16T21:12:00.000-07:00

Okay first off, all these pictures are out of order and for some reason a bit grainy. sorry.

after the patch...her hair when we took the hat off. CRAZZZY.her baby pumpkin
smiles.
our little family.

farmer ahlyssa

i can tell....her favorite season is fall!

quite chilly out there in no man's land.

she has found the door stoppers. :( annoying.

fell asleep on her glow sea horse.....way to cute even though its blurry.

ahlyssa has learned to wave! and ps. turn your volume DOWN because I sound so completely annoying!

"The Constitution of the United States is a glorious standard; it is founded in the wisdom of God. It is a heavenly banner." Joseph Smith

2009-10-08T14:16:00.000-07:00

I don't like to post things about politics too much because some people get offended with certain things no matter what side you are on. So if you are offended by this is apologize before hand but I am entitled, as well as you, to my opinions.

I had to post this. Someone on Facebook posted this and I HAD to post it here as well. Ezra Taft Benson was a prophet of our Church and also in the United States Cabinet and United States Secretary of Agriculture. This is so well written/spoken (it was originally a speech) and although it was given over 23 years ago it still is so important...probably now more then ever! As Brian and I scripture study together we have talked a lot about politics in relation to religion. Ether 2 in the Book of Mormon goes along great with this speech. I think that this so greatly portrays the very thoughts that I have. It just shows how inspired these men of God are, not only the prophets of our Church but as well the the Founding Fathers. I am so grateful to have the truth in my life and the knowledge of the things to come and what I need to do to prepare my family. For the speech go to: http://speeches.byu.edu/reader/reader.php?id=6985

Private

2009-10-06T06:12:00.000-07:00

I just read in the Ensign (church magazine--and if it's in there you KNOW its important--right?) yesterday about blogging and ways to stay blogger-safe so we have decided (and I have figured out) to go private. If you would like to continue (please do) to read our blog, just leave a comment, facebook me, OR send me a private e-mail with YOUR email.

Thanks guys and hope you continue to read.

We are shooting to go private in about 2 weeks.

Elyse e-mail: carroll_elyse@yahoo.com

sippy cup warning...

2009-09-29T17:39:00.000-07:00

Ahlyssa woke up this morning with a rash. She has had it in the past and I took her to see the doctor. Well they told me it was a viral rash and it starts with a fever and then the rash comes then goes away after 5-7 days. Well problem was she didn't have a fever AND doesn't have one now. Well I was doing the dishes and her sippy cup lid fell immediately out of the dishwasher and fell upside down so I could see the inside of the lid and I saw the lid completely full of mold. I was so disgusted and just wanted all moms, babysitters, grandmas, anyone to check their sippy cups. (My sister recently just had the same problem but with a different brand of sippy.) I don't know if the rash has something to do with the mold, although I looked it up and a skin rash can be a result of mold. You better believe I will be calling the doctor first thing in the morning! I don't know if I want Ahlyssa to use sippys now...what else am I supposed to give her?

(the lid full of mold)

(Avent brand sippy--kind of wonder if the bottles have the same problem?)

8 months

2009-09-28T12:00:00.000-07:00

Ahlyssa Briann

-eight months-

(you weren't havin' the picture taking this day but

managed to get one of you looking and not moving-somewhat)

-getting on your knees although no crawling

-still no teethies

-you know how to get around but rolling then turning then back to rolling

-when nothing else calms you down, going outside will

-pretty much a relaxed baby

-love cell phones, the laptop cord, remotes

-you do have quite an attitude!

-you "bald" spot is FINALLY going hair

-your hair is growing longer and thicker

-can "palm" your bottle now (hold it with one hand)

-love eating off mom and dad's plate

-feeding yourself finger foods better

-you gives smiles to everyone when we are out, pretty much a people person like daddy

-like to give us the chucky smile

-you are developing the most beautiful personality

-you love looking at you bedtime book especially the picture of Jesus and the little boy (last page), you will hold it and stick you face in it

-we love you missy may, we are lucky to call you ours!

i heart fall...

2009-09-21T12:05:00.000-07:00

because:
1. jackets, hoodies, gloves, hats, scarfs, jeans
2. pumpkin show
3. pumpkins, falling colored leaves, scarecrows
4. thanksgiving
5. cooler weather!
6. warm soft jammies on ahlyssa
7. apple spice candles
8. open window nights=more cuddling and no sweating!!
9. this year my baby girl's first holiday season
10. and because my mom gets to be here for the fall weather!

7 months and GROWING...

2009-08-26T12:19:00.000-07:00

Ahlyssa Briann-7 months.

(2 weeks ago 18 lbs and 27 inches)

~sitting alone

~love all baby food except green beans

~like real bananas and grapes (haven't tried much else though)

~love your Baby Einstein movie

~just starting sucking on your toes TODAY

~ say a few consonant vowel combination sounds..including ma-ma-ma..mainly when your crying

~trying so hard to get toys out of reach but showing no interest in crawling (thank goodness!)

~such a happy baby

~adore watching other kids

~love watching cats or dogs

~you do this fake cough thing that is so cute!

~love taking walks

~love swimming

~very ticklish

~you have very tiny feet (last Sunday I put 0-3 month shoes on you and they fit!)

~you like anything stuffed (animals, books, etc)

~you recently have continuously popped you pacifier in upside down...silly girl

we love you baby girl.

just some recent pictures of Ahlyssa...

2009-08-17T18:57:00.000-07:00

(mom-- the green/pink dress with bow pictures are for you--enjoy!)playing at the fountains at Easton

Ahlyssa's first vacation

2009-08-10T11:42:00.000-07:00

We are back from our long awaited trip to sunny California. The weather was great and we had a great time. Here are some pictures of our trip. Ahlyssa did awesome on the plane rides. I couldn't have asked for a better trip.

(Brian would not be in any of them because he was in Myrtle Beach part of the time and then he had to be back to work.)

on the plane getting ready to take off.

Ahlyssa navigating grandma
cousins Makenna and Mason

Lake Hogan in Valley Springs, CA

first time in the front part of the shopping cart

(look at the yellow sign behind Ahlyssa...note how expensive everything is out there...$6 for Doritos?!?!?!)

YUM!! In-n-Out (signature palm trees)
swimming at aunt Cyn and uncle Jim's pool

loving EVERY minute of it

she cried when I took her out!

4 generations. (me, Ahlyssa, my mom, and my grandma)

always being my precious sweet little girl

she's half a year old!

2009-07-27T13:02:00.001-07:00

Ahlyssa Briann-6 months

~you "scooted" yourself the other day to be next to daddy to look at the laptop

~although no teeth have broken through...i believe it won't be long..at least i hope so

~you love apple juice and banana puffs

~you reach for things you want and usually won't give up until you get it

~you can hold your own bottle

~you get scared very easily

~this is your curious look and its usually at the camera

~you are getting better at sitting up by yourself

~you are wear 3-6m, 6m, 9m, AND 6-12m clothes!

~you have loved every baby food you have tried

~here's the concentrated look

~you drink 7 ounces of "meeky"

~you love being outside!

~you cry at any man with facial hair

~you are quite the talker/singer

~you are such a happy baby

~you reach for anything and everything

~no matter how tight we swaddle you, you can still get out of it but yet have to be in the swaddle blanket to fall asleep...its getting rather frustrating!

~you roll over to your belly and cry for mommy/daddy to roll you to your back
~you adore that little lady bug and love on it all the time

~you sleep from 7:30pm-6:30am/7am

~this month you will finally meet all your aunts and uncles
~happy six months....we <3>

<3

2009-07-21T20:01:00.000-07:00

I am realizing how precious life is. I want to take a picture and frame this moment forever. LOVE.

Crazy things going on...

2009-07-16T12:51:00.000-07:00

Its been a busy few weeks here at the Carroll pad. Ahlyssa finally took her first bath in the "big" bath tub. She has grown out of the baby one...: (...and how I ask the question...why must parents ALWAYS take pictures of their kids in the bath tub?

My mom and Marissa have been staying at our house and then they will move onto Erika's. Alex and my dad got here Monday but they left yesterday to go to New York so we haven't seen much of them. But we did go to Cedar Point on Tuesday and it was a lot of fun! Doesn't Brian just looked thrilled to take the picture?!
Here's some of Ahlyssa and Aiden (cousin) on the Fourth of July...they were holding hands and "talking" to each other...it was so cute!

Marissa thought it would be funny to put Ahlyssa in this ottoman. It was awfully cute and Ahlyssa loved it!

Today we went swimming and Ahlyssa was just loving the boat thing she was floating around in. She chewed on that handle the whole time.

That just about sums up our lives the past couple of weeks!

happy 4th of july!

2009-07-04T05:19:00.000-07:00

I was watching some youtube videos about soldiers, the war, and the like and I have NO clue what these people have/will gone/go through. I have realized I have no idea what its like for them over there and I wanted to take a moment and just say how grateful I am for their selflessness and also to their family and friends for the support they give their soldiers over seas. Coming from a military I know the struggles that comes with it. So thank you to my dad and every other soldier that have served our Country. God bless America and In God We Trust.

happy birthday scarie erie.

2009-07-01T10:56:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of Erika and I growing up. We were best friends growing up. Into our teenage years we weren't as close, then my parents moved me away from her right after she got married. We don't have as many pictures during that time because we lived across country! But here we are living in the same state only minutes from each other and still best of friends. She is the best sister anyone could ask for. She is a awesome mom and great wife. I have and always will look up to my big sister. (most of these are out of a scrapbook that Erika made for me when I turned 18.) Happy birthday! jeff, erika, me and chris before church (doesn't this pic of me look like ahlyssa?!)
halloween-still don't know what erika was supposed to be this year...

after my baptism

in new york

bush rally

in oakglen when she came to visit

jeff and jessica's wedding in tahoe

em's dance recital

one of my favorite pictures with my girls...(cept ahlyssa but she was with Heavenly Father)

5 months

2009-06-29T18:42:00.000-07:00

Ahlyssa Briann-5 months~bedtime is at 7:30pm and you wake up between 6:30 and 7:45am

~anytime we take you jogging in the jogging stroller you fall asleep (even if you just woke up)

~when you sit in your swing you look like you can just about fall out

~like to be read to

~still love bath time

~love peas and cereal

~every time we pull the camera out the laughs and smiles are gone...we have to hide the camera

~like to play peek-a-boo with daddy

~starting to sit a little bit on your own
~still hate to be on your stomach

~a lot of your hair has fallen out

~your bald spot is now started to grow hair

~if any man with facial hair talks to your to scream/cry

~hate hot weather..just like mom

~but love the pool

~love to play on your play gym-you can lay there for a long time and play by yourself

~like to sit and look around in your bumbo seat

~starting to "watch" your hands and have discovered your feet

~still liking that paci

We love you precious. Happy 5 months!

A Change of Heart

2009-06-22T19:10:00.000-07:00

So as of late I have done some thinking. And with thinking brings prayer, searching, pondering, and a sure knowledge of Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ and that They do live. Life is hard and trials and fears are present but with the love of my Heavenly Father, we can get through anything. My outlook has changed, my spirit has changed, and my love has changed. I am grateful for the things that Heavenly Father has put into my path. For the people he has set in my path. And through my loving Savior I am able to overcome and resist temptation and turn to Him for help and guidance. More then ever I have truly felt His arms around me and His everlasting love. I truly believe that the scriptures are true. They have anything and everything we will ever need to know. They answer prayers and lead the way to righteousness. Through prayer and studying I have come to know the Savior Jesus Christ. He is real and He lives! I have learned that the Lord will NEVER give us things that we will not be able to handle. I know that we still receive present day revelation through the prophets of the Church. I know people are inspired for a reason. I know Heavenly Father and Jesus Christ have a hand in everything. I know that through the Atonement of Jesus Christ I will (with my great husband and beautiful daughter) live with Him again.

I have come to appreciate my marriage more. Things in a blink of an eye can change. And its my husband that I turn to and lean on. He is truly my best friend. He has taught me in ways I don't think he'll ever know. I fall in love over and over again when I wake up next to him. I still get butterflies. I still get a fluttering heart. I am so grateful that I will be with him forever-and forever means FOREVER.

I have come to appreciate my adoring daughter. Its hard sometimes to be the one she relies on 24/7. But I would never change anything about that. I have come to understand how our Heavenly Father feels towards us. Unconditional love. I love to see her experience life-watch her see and hear new things. I love getting her in the morning and her arms and legs start going and a huge smile on her face. I can't imagine what Heavenly Father will feel when we come before Him after the judgement day and have past our time here on earth, ready to serve Him with our celestial families.

I needed this. I guess one can say that I have had a "change of heart". I'm ready for what life brings.

i went to get Ahlyssa from her crib and here's what i found...

2009-06-15T12:30:00.001-07:00

she thinks she's sneaky....

summer time 09

2009-06-15T12:20:00.000-07:00

Today we took Ahlyssa to the pool. She actually did really well and I think she enjoyed it. I think is wasn't quite warm enough yet so we'll wait a few more weeks until the pool warms up a bit to go again. She just looked way to precious her in little swimsuit!

last post for tonight.

2009-06-08T19:15:00.000-07:00

I was giving Ahlyssa a bath because I had to put baby oil in her hair because she has a dry scalp...aka...cradle cap (but I don't like that name). And it made me laugh...if Ace Ventura had a baby....

cereal for the first time......

2009-06-08T19:03:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Ahlyssa had her first bowl of "cereal". She was a natural at it. She takes after Brian because Brian had to be fed cereal when he was just hours old in the hospital to get him to stop crying. She was so mad when we put her in the highchair to start feeding and as soon as I put the spoon up to her mouth, she opened and calmed right down.

happy girl with a full belly.

video of the first bite...

My dad's Decommissioning

2009-06-08T18:30:00.000-07:00

Sunday was the Decommissioning of my dad's battalion. It was a good ceremony and a lot of people complemented of what a good job he did. He gave a great speech. Some of it I didn't understand because they use all their "navy talk" and abbreviations and numbers--don't know why! And I have been around this stuff for 23 years! I love seeing these people in their uniforms.

cutting the cake...it was melting

my dad's banner

my dad giving his speech

saluting the flag.

standing at attention

please forgive...

2009-06-06T21:03:00.000-07:00

I realized as I reread my last post that it seemed a little negative...it was a long bad morning! I really do like summer and especially excited to take Ahlyssa swimmin' in her little bathing suits, swim diapers, sun screen, lil hat, and floating thing!
take care, we're off to bed!

Chillaxin'

2009-06-05T11:09:00.000-07:00

First I would like to start by saying that I HATE SUMMER for one reason...too many people are out and about and it takes twice as long to do anything around here because people are EVERYWHERE! But other then that its a great season!Ahlyssa went to the doctor today:

weight: 16 lbs 2oz

height: 25.5 inches

head circumference: 17 inches

She is in the 90 percentile for everything. The doctor said that her head caught up with her but if the next visit her head circumference spikes up like that again then we have to get x-rays done. She said there is nothing to worry about. (Okay doc, you can't tell me that my child's head might be alarmingly large and then tell me NOT to worry...!!!)

i just love this look! so kissable!

She has started to roll over from back to belly and is doing it alot from belly to back.

5k and four months!

2009-05-26T14:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Brian and I ran a 5k in Lancaster. It was great weather--perfect for running. I didn't do as well as I wanted and but I beat my time from earlier this month by 4 minutes. Brian did so awesome. He ran it in 29 something minutes and I ran it in 33 something minutes. We are signing up for a Lancaster Grand Prix and we get 12 races for $25 and 100% of the money goes to the local community. We have missed about 2 of them but the next race will be late June. We are excited and aiming to beat our previous times by about 5 minutes! I am so mad at myself...I forgot a picture for our first one and then again yesterday...sorry! Now for a new story...

AHLYSSA IS FOUR MONTHS OLD!
(we go to the doctor for weight and length on June 5)

-Love being swaddled...although you can now get out of it :( which then you wake yourself up.
-No matter where we are you find the T.V. and stare at it.

-HAVE to have a blanket by your face...you prefer your pink/white blanket g-ma made.

-Drinking 6 1/2 ounces every 4 hours.

-You go to bed at 10pm wake up about 2:30am and 4:30am for paci but right back to sleep and wake up at 7am to eat. Then right back to sleep until 11am. Up for an hour and a half back to sleep-then up at 3pm to eat...up for 2 hours then back to sleep until 7pm...then bed at 10pm.

-You are such a happy baby and just go with the flow. Although you can get a little attitude.

-You have laughed MAYBE twice...we've tried EVERYTHING! (I think you like watching mommy and daddy making a fool of ourselves!)

-You love your bumbo seat.

-Love laying on your Rainforest play gym. You will do a circle around the mat because you twist your head back (see picture). Soon you will roll over.

-Every time we bust out the camera the smiles are pretty much gone...we have to hide it then snap it!

-You eat your fingers and hands all the time--even in your sleep.

-You are starting to put everything into your mouth...to figure out textures.

-You like to have books read to you...you might just like us talking to you.

-In size 2 diapers.

-You won't roll over from belly to back...you did for like a week straight but won't do it anymore....

-You are getting to big for your baby bath.

-You have a hard time sleeping anywhere BUT your crib.

-Still can't figure out your eye color.

-You are developing the cutest personality.

-You have the biggest bald spot on the back of your head...and now its going up the sides of your head because you whip your head from side to side to get comfy or to look around.

-You are very aware of your surroundings and stare and new things either in the house or car.

-Pretty have grown out of 3-6 months clothes.

We love watching you explore and find new things. You are such a joy in our lives. "(We) love you forever and like you for always...as long as (we are) living (our) baby you'll be."

Not Much

2009-05-14T13:02:00.000-07:00

K-so I don't really have anything exciting to say. Ahlyssa is napping and I love quiet time! So I thought I'd update a bit. She's been doing really well. I think we have some sort of schedule. Still trying to straighten some things out. Its hard because some days I have things to do and it gets her all out of whack and she DOES NOT sleep well unless she is in her crib. Any who, she likes to nap at about 8pm-10:30pm but I like her to be awake at least an hour and a half before she does down for the night so we wake her up at 9:30pm. The other night she just would not wake up. I tried everything and so here are some pictures. Usually the flash will startle her but not this time! I finally tried to give her a bottle which she only took about 3 ounces then I put her back to bed. I think maybe bed time is going to be a little earlier! YAY!

How sweet is this picture? I just love these two SO MUCH!

3 years ago today....

2009-05-06T10:44:00.000-07:00

....Brian and I were married for time and all eternity! I can't help but reminisce about that day. It couldn't have been more perfect and it didn't help that I married my best friend and eternal companion. There was so many people involved that made that day what it was. And to everyone that was there and in our lives now, thank you and we love you!

very first picture we took when we were "dating"

i think we weren't even "dating" exclusively yet at this point :)

(so my mom could see what he looked like!)

Me on our wedding day (obviously)

my sexy husband...

Happy 3 years babe! I can't wait for many more to come!

First time for everything

2009-05-04T13:44:00.000-07:00

May 2nd came WAY TOO FAST. That was the Capital City Commit to be Fit 5k. Although I knew the date, I wasn't thinking about the run too much. I am so glad Erika "made" me do this. I am trying to get Brian to do this next one with me. I am thinking about doing one this summer and actually run the entire thing. I finished in 36 minutes. I was hoping to run it in under 40 minutes and I beat my goal. I ran for probably about 2.2 miles and the rest I walked. The next one I will be running the entire thing and hopefully under 30 minutes. And when I beat that, I want to do a half marathon. There is something different about running with 1500-2000 other people in a designated course and an actual finish line then just going outside and running on your own. I am now addicted! Erika and I had no camera, so no pictures :(

Ahlyssa chillin' before we headed off to church.

We also took Ahlyssa to the zoo on Saturday (not that she cared much, just an excuse to go, right?!). We went with some friends and it was a lot of fun. The weather was great and not too crowded AND Ahlyssa and Cale were SO good which makes for an even better time! We forgot to charge the battery on our camera so we didn't get very many pictures. I LOVED the little monkeys and there was a baby monkey and he was just too cute! (no picture :( Then we went to dinner at Olive Garden-that it was SO YUMMY!

This little guy looked so completely fake...but he wasn't (at least I think he isn't)

manatee

stingray grubbin on lettuce right in front of us!

sleepy cheetah

grumpy gorilla

this is the look Brian gets and.....

...here's the look I get!

Ahlyssa is now sleeping in her crib! That was a big step! It was hard the first night. Because her bedroom is separated between the living room from our bedroom, I put an alarm on the front door. I was checking the window, her monitors, the front door, the alarms, everything to make sure we can see/hear her and that everything was locked. But we made it through and she has been there the last 2 nights! She is starting to get out of her swaddle...don't think we are going to be able to do this much longer. Anyway have to post have the sleeping-all-crazy picture.

Mr. Brian

2009-04-28T14:14:00.000-07:00

Brian turned 27 today and so I thought I should do a little tribute to him since I don't write about him much. Over the past 3 months or so I have fallen in love all over again. People told us that having a child puts a strain on the relationship and maybe we were just prepared for that so we didn't let that happen. If anything we have totally grown closer. He has totally stepped up and has become the best husband and awesome father to Ahlyssa. I don't give him enough credit and complain a lot about things, but through it all he is always there to help me out. Yeah I may need to remind him BUT he does it without complaining. He is alway keeping me laughing and so witty. I love that he is so passionate about his work (one thing I complain about) and always looking to improve. I love to talk about Church doctorine with him because he knows so much (whereas I don't) and has great insight about it. I love watching him interact with Ahlyssa and talk to her, because she just lights up. I am so glad to have him as my earthy husband and eternal companion.

I LOVE YOU BABE HAPPY BIRTHDAY!

3 months!

2009-04-28T13:11:00.000-07:00

3 MONTHS:

*You're finally sleeping in your crib, but we have a a blanket under the mattress to make it 30 degrees upright so you think you are in your swing. You lay on a blanket grandma made then swaddled and then the blanket that g-ma made is placed by the sides of your face...then the seahorse it turned on...we are sneaky and IT'S WORKED!

*You sleep only in your crib during nap...I'm not ready for bedtime...I need some alarms and a video monitor (the crappy one we had broke.)
*You are taking 5-6 ounces every 3 1/2-4 hours.

*You lift your head when you are in your carseat, swing, or bouncer like you are going to get out...what do you think you are going to do, get out and take a walk?

*You sleep from 11pm to 7am..straight through! :)

*You are all smiles after a good nap and a full belly.

*You still enjoy your car seat and car rides.

*You little hands are always going into your mouth when your paci isn't.

*You are so into what's going on around you and sometimes it stops you from taking naps.

*You've started rolling over. But you won't roll over if you are in a bad mood, you just bury your face in the blanket like your mad at us.

*You are in all sorts of sizes of clothes. Depends on the brand. It's a pain really. (3m, 3-6, 6-9, 6-12m)

*Depending on your mood depends on who you prefer to be held by. Playtime=daddy, sleepy=mommy, cranky=who cares I'm spoiled.

*Mommy and Daddy always said we wouldn't spoil you....guess what you are but you will still do some play time on your own.

*You do a one handed eye rub when you are sleepy.

*That pink paci is still around and still the favorite.

*You eye color is still undetermined.

*You have the sweetest cutest little voice. We LOVE when you coo.

*You have so many facial expressions and most of them include your eyebrows..raising them, frowning, and even a-one-eyebrow raise (I can barely do that)!

*Yes you have a bald spot...:(

*Your feet are so ticklish.

*You HATE your hands being touched.

*You've just recently started blowing bubbles, maybe last week.

*You are doing a great job with raising your head and looking around.

*Not to jinx it or anything, but I think your colicky cryingness is gone.

*We haven't gone to the doctor (its in a month) but daddy weighed himself then you with him and you are about 14 pounds.

You are so fun to watch and we love every minute of parenthood. We love you punkee and happy 3 months!

"Do your best, forget the rest, and BRING IT!"

2009-04-21T14:53:00.000-07:00

We've started it-day 2. 6 days a week for 90 days. Brian and I have decided to do this together so 1. we can spend some time together doing something we both have interest in and 2. to get in shape. I'm hoping to have a family picture done this summer and we have a couple of trips planned. We are excited--although today a bit sore...okay more then a bit! We want to loose a combined total of 68 pounds. And besides that I have a marathon that I should be in shape for in less than 2 weeks. I can barely get up the stairs without huffing and puffing! It should be interesting. I got a jogging stroller to take Ahlyssa out running with me...its pretty much been too chilly for her to be out or raining! I hate Ohio weather.
Anywho I'd like to tell Tony, "BRING IT" brotha, you're on!

Here and There

2009-04-19T15:28:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was such a fun day. Brian and I took the day off so we could go to my best friend's open house from high school. It was so good to see her and her family and meet her husband. The open house was in Perry, OH. Caitlyn was there as well!!

Chaela, Caitlyn, Ashlyn, Me, Ahlyssa

I love taking road trips and it gives Brian and I a chance to talk with no interruptions (except for the occasional out cry of a perfect 2-month old traveler). Ahlyssa did awesome going and coming. We stopped at the Lodi Outlet mall and got some great deals!

My mom and Marissa had been in town this past week babysitting Erika's boys while Erika and Aaron went on vacation. It was a fun EVENTFUL week. (I totally respect and give Erika props for taking care of those boys-they are a handful but SO CUTE). The weather has been somewhat nice and so we went to the park a couple times.

Aunt Mari and Ahlyssa

Ahlyssa has been cooing and rolling over like crazy. She is lifting her chest and head up very well. She gets so into what's going on around her.

We got her a highchair....because like I've said before when I get something that I need on my mind, I have to get it NOW. (No, Mom and Erika--I didn't feed her anything!)

Easter 2009

2009-04-13T21:28:00.000-07:00

We had a very eventful Easter. Ahlyssa started off with her first Easter basket. She got a Glow Seahorse that plays music and lights up and a book. I was way more excited then her (obviously). Then we were off to church at the Lancaster Ward. Thought it was time that we took her to see some of the people around there. Then we went to Brian's family's function. She met 3 members of the family that haven't seen her yet. Then it was off to my family's function. My mom has been in town as well as Marissa watching Erika's boys (Erika and Aaron are on a cruise!!), so anywho we spent some time with them on Easter. It was a lot of fun to be with both families!

Easter dress
Being such a good girl
so serious!

my punkee getting such chubby cheeks

Brian and Ahlyssa's great grandma Carroll
the bunny grandma Care got Ahlyssa (she loves it :)
Hope everyone had a great Easter!

Stats

2009-04-03T20:58:00.000-07:00

Oh my goodness....Ahlyssa is GROWING like a friggin' weed! She has pretty more then doubled her percentiles. She weights 12 lbs 8 oz (83%) and 23.5 inches (84%). Last month we were in the 20-30%! Some people may know that I was questioning the way the docs give vaccinations. (like so frequent and so many at once). Well when we were in the doc office I just had an impression that she needed to get them so she did. She did awesome. I think me and Brian teared up more then she did. Ahlyssa MAYBE cried for like 5 seconds and then has be so good. She has slept lots today...Brian actually had to wake her up to feed her! Anyway obviously we are doing sometime good, right?
g'night!

PiCtUrEs

2009-04-02T13:59:00.000-07:00

Smiling at herself in her mobile mirror

really...this face? I LOVE IT!

why she sleeps with one hand in the air is beyond me!

posing

TWINS!!!??!!!

2009-03-26T16:37:00.000-07:00

Today would make TWO MONTHS!

2009-03-26T14:44:00.000-07:00

Oh baby girl, can you believe it?

YOU'RE TWO MONTHS OLD!
So here are some things about you and your likes and dislikes:

-You still love your car seat

-Still sleep/love in your swing

-You go to "bed" at 11pm, wake up at 4am to eat then right back to sleep, up 7am to eat right back to sleep, up at 10am to eat and after that its whenever and wherever

-You drink about 4 1/2 ounces about every 3 hours. Sometimes you take "breaks" to smile and look around then demand the rest

-You still love that pink paci (now the white ring part has to touch your nose)
-You love the "shhhhh"ing noise

-You love to be swaddled now...last month you didn't

-You are doing really well with lifting your head

-You pretty much follow people around the room

-You cry anytime mommy leaves the room during the day

-You hate your hands being touched

-You little feet are so ticklish

-You really dislike your crib :(

-When drinking your bottle you raise your right arm in the air

-When you are awake you are constantly wiggling and I mean CONSTANTLY!!
-You like to lay sprawled out on the couch (like daddy!)

-You hate when your diaper is wet or poopy

-We can't decide what your eye color is right now

-Your hair is still wild as ever
-You have pretty much grown out of newborn and o-3 month clothes (somethings you can still fit depends on the brand)

-You are now in size 1 diapers

-After you drink your bottle you hate taking your paci directly after (you give us the most disgusted look ever...we'll have to get a picture of that)

-You love staring and smiling at yourself in your swing mirror (you think you pretty cute..as well as mommy and daddy think)

-You love all your relatives because they take such good care of you but for some reason you and Casen have this "connection" (maybe because you remember him in the pre-existence?!)

-You love watching your mobile go round and round

-You still get some nasty stomach aches in the evenings

-When you are having stomach ache "attacks" you hang on to shirts or blankets or scratch

-You LOVE you hair being combed or brushed (just like mommy!)

-We finally switched to the 8oz Dr. Brown bottles...because like it says DIRECTLY on the bottle "if filled past 4oz mark, bottle leaks"...took only about 2 weeks to figure that one out! ;)

-You just light up when daddy comes home from work or enters the room (wonder what your first word will be?!)
-You love riding in the car (maybe daddy should let us go on a road trip to Myrtle Beach this year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!)

-You are making noises and cooing more. We love hearing your little voice.

-You smile the most right after your bottle

-We've had several people tell us to enter you in contests or modeling

-You like being walked around so you can see what's going on

-You like looking out the window

-For some reason you wake up and start crying at the most inconvenient times..example: when we sit down to eat, when I pump, when I am doing dishes or bottles, when I get into the shower

-All in all you are an aweome baby

Each day it seems we learn more and more about you. It's such a learning experience having you in our life. As mommy and daddy grow more and more in love with you, our love for each other grows. Thank you so much for that. Happy 2 months!

Real quick

2009-03-24T12:52:00.000-07:00

Here's a video of Ahlyssa cooing:

Not Much

2009-03-23T19:16:00.000-07:00

Well not much new is going on here. Ahlyssa is cooing more and I just love hearing her little voice! She smiles a lot (mainly right after she eats...life is just great at that time for her :) She is sleeping about 5 hours straight through and then 3 hours after that. It's WONDERFUL! Here are some recent pictures of our little punkee.

WOAH!

2009-03-14T08:51:00.000-07:00

So last night we had a BREAK THROUGH MOMENT....ready for it....?
Ahlyssa slept for 5 hours STRAIGHT!!!! Maybe we are getting close to sleeping through the night or maybe it was a fluke, but whatever it was, it was so nice. (Although that means I missed 2 times of pumping. I use Ahlyssa as an alarm clock-oh well it felt great!!!!)

"All good things will be ridiculed"

2009-03-11T14:33:00.000-07:00

I'm sure many have heard about the show to be aired on HBO about what goes on in our sacred temples. Although its disrespectful and unthoughtful for the producers to exposed such a thing (and most of it being portrayed wrong), it gives members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints an opportunity to answer and correctly identify to people the truth and share our testimonies to those who question and ridicule. In a news release from the Church, it stated that we would not fight because it will give people more of a reason to watch it. I totally agree with this. Here is where I stand with all this: I know that the temple and the ceremonies therein are for members who are ready and willing to appreciate its sacredness that is why we have recommends to enter. It's a place of beauty, peace, comfort, and a glimpse of eternity. There I feel important, appreciate and excepted...everyone is the same whether you are CEO of American Express or raising 14 kids on welfare. When I walk into the temple everything is lifted off my shoulders. At the door I leave the cares of the world and feel the comfort of my Heavenly Father. The temple reminds of my eternal family and knowing there is life beyond this. I will be with my eternal companion forever and always have Ahlyssa as my beloved daughter and any other children I will have here or beyond the veil. I am grateful to be a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints and no matter how much opposition I face, I will be blessed for my efforts. I am not perfect but I have the greatest example to follow; my Savior Jesus Christ. I am so grateful for His atoning sacrifice so I could experience this life with my family, Brian, and my children. With them I will find "joy in the journey".

If any that are reading and have questions these websites will offer the truth and approved by the church:

www.lds.org -or- www.mormon.org

What am I thinking!?!

2009-03-11T13:55:00.001-07:00

Well today was only day 2 of working out...and I am so completely out of shape! :( Erika and I are running the Commit to Be Fit Marathon. We are doing the 3.1 miles. Erika has this plan of finishing in a certain amount of time and I am thinking she is on her own on that one. At this point I can barely run 5 minutes! I do have 52 days to get into shape...let's keep our fingers crossed! Here are some new pictures of Ahlyssa and a video for g-ma and mar.

Just a lil sumin' sumin'

2009-03-06T20:17:00.000-08:00

Ok, I am not a big Dora fan quite yet (hoping she goes away before Ahlyssa is old enough to know who she is) and I don't know why I really care about this enough to blog about...but why on earth are they contemplating making Dora "grow up" and become a "city girl". Someone stated that she is going to become like Barbie and be obsessed with boys and sexualized.
I am totally appalled by this. Maybe its because I am now raising a child of my own and this is pointing right into my face the things these kids will have to deal with when they are older. Dora was once this cute brown eyed little girl that taught children Spanish, colors, numbers, memory, direction, and all sorts of things. Now they want to display a "grown up" Dora who now has long flowing hair, a short skirt, and long legs. Let's teach very young girls and throw in their faces sexuality. There's enough of that with magazine ads, movies, and adult television. We don't need producers of Nickelodeon or the Dora show starting this at such a young age. I think I don't quiet understand because they aren't changing Bob the Builder's look dirty ripped jeans, an Abercrombie hoodie, Nike shox, with a Ty Pennington tool belt to make him look more modernized. This just makes me a bit perturbed. The media needs to leave children alone and quit brainwashing them! With this said...I am going to bed.

Meatloaf, Ahlyssa, and a video

2009-03-04T17:22:00.000-08:00

Ahlyssa had her one month check up on Monday. She now weighs 9.3 (23%), she is 21.25 inches long (31%), and her head is 14.5 (32%). The doctor says that she is growing perfectly!! Here are some pictures. I just want to share with everyone my first time making meat loaf. I really destest meat loaf but this reciept was awesome...oh I could have some of that right about now!

Here are some pictures of Erika's boys and Ahlyssa.

First time sleeping in her crib!-didn't last long though :(

Brian and Ahlyssa relaxin'

We actually got her to smile on camera (sort of).Ahlyssa just hanging out.

This video is kind of long but really its for grandma and maris...so hope you enjoy!

First Photo Shoot

2009-02-28T06:42:00.000-08:00

So when I used to work at Children's Orchard there was a girl that I got to know pretty well. But I didn't know was how well she took pictures! She came over yesterday and took the most adorable pictures of Ahlyssa. Not only is she a great photograpgher but everytime Ahlyssa started to fuss or if she moved out of place, she was able to calm her right down and her back to sleep and into position! It was awesome. And every mom knows how stressful picture day is. Well she comes to your house! I loved it. And these are just a few of them! Too many to choose from. If you want to check out her website it is:

http://www.sandyfoorphotography.com

Thanks Sandy!!

journal blogging

2009-02-22T20:54:00.000-08:00

Well baby girl today you are one month old. Everyone always told me how fast the time flies by. I haven't understood that until now. I can't believe it was one month ago that I was laying in the hospital bed watching T.V., daddy playing online pool, anxiously waiting for you to arrive. You have been such a blessing in all your family's lives but especially mine and your father's. You have defined the meaning of life to me. You can made me understand what unconditional love is. I still stare at you and can't believe you are mine.

Yesterday you were blessed and daddy did such a great job. You did really well and didn't cry but I did! But you did have your paci and you love that thing. (It's no wonder you stayed quiet.) It has to be the pink one. You won't take any other one...even if its the exact same just a different color.

You love laying on your tummy on anyone else's tummy. That's your favorite spot. Sometimes your even make me sleep on the recliner with you laying on me. You do like to sleep in your swing. Most of the time that's where you sleep and I love it when you do! Lately, you've been sleeping really well only waking ever 3 hours to eat 2 1/2-3 ounces. The other day you did sleep past your 3 hour mark!

You have some wild hair. After every bath it just flips up and flies around like feathers! Its grown so much since you were born. Its still really dark and hasn't fallen out. I don't think it will like everyone says it does.

Your eyes are still dark blue...I think they'll turn brown. You have started to focus more on faces and will sometimes follow people across the room. I still remember the first time we locked eyes. This may sound a bit cliche but I felt like I looked right into your soul.

You like to cuddle up to my baby blanket. Probably because it smells like me. I don't mind-you can borrow it for now :)

You love baths. When I can't get you to calm down, the bath will. You love when I sprinkle water all over your body. You do start to fuss at the end because the water starts to get chilly and that's when we know your done. You hate when I rub lotion on you after your baths. It makes you so mad.

Another thing you dislike is being swaddled. Even the day you were born you hated it. No matter how tight those nurses bundled you, you got yourself out and your hands free.

You absolutely love your car seat. You could sleep all day in it if I let you. And I don't because we don't want your head to become mis-shapened. Sometimes in the evening when we are dealing with your colic (you haven't been diagnosed by a doctor that you have it but pretty sure you do) I think about putting you there...I'm sure you'd calm down instantly.

You smile ever now and then. Mostly when your sleeping. But mostly you frown a lot. Its actually quite funny. I think you are going to have quite the attitude. You already know what you like and what you don't and aren't afraid to let us know.

Everyone thinks you are so precious. Every time we go out people just flock to you and rant and rave about you. I'm sure every newborn is gaga-ed at but I love it because your mine.

I am so lucky to have you and I don't know why you chose me to be your mother. I'm sure Heavenly Father put you in my life more for me than you but I am so grateful that I get to be your mom. I look forward to what is in store for you and experience it with you. I love you punkee and Happy One Month.

Ahlyssa's Blessing Day

2009-02-22T18:24:00.000-08:00

Today we had Ahlyssa blessed. The dress my mom actually made for my little sister. Marissa (little sis) is 13 now. I just love this dress. My mom gave her the bracelet she's wearing. It has a little poem that goes along about her blessing day. She did so good and it was a great blessing. The picture with her mouth is was in mid-yawn.

Being held by grandpa. Note the military gear to the left.

Thanks to Aaron, Chris, Bishop, Grandpa Bill, and Grandpa Joel for being apart of it.

more pictures

2009-02-15T18:39:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day!

first time at church

A few new pictures

2009-02-13T19:26:00.000-08:00

Hello. Just wanted to let everyone know that we are still around and doing well. My mom has been here which has been so AWESOME! I will NOT think about the day she leaves. It will be hard. Its been nice to have her here and be able to get to places on time...sort of :) Tomorrow we are going to Jeffersonville with Scary Erie (erika). Here are some new pictures of Ahlyssa:

Brian's little brother Chris and his girlfriend had their baby. Ahlyssa and Aiden are 2 weeks and 2 days apart. Here's the first time they met. I have more pictures but don't have time to upload them so look for them coming soon! :) good night!

Birth Story

2009-02-04T06:14:00.001-08:00

Well I thought I would post my birth story for those who might be interested and so I can always remember January 26, 2009.

Monday, January 26 I got up to go to my 38 week doctor appointment. I got there the nurse checked my weight, blood pressure, you know all that great stuff. I got in the little room and waited for about 5 minutes not realizing my life would change forever.

Dr. Friday came in and immediately said "Well I guess you can have a baby." (I'm thinking she said that because she just got back from FL and so she was now in town so if I went into labor she'd be there.) So I just giggled. She does all the checking and measuring and tells me my blood pressure was alarmingly high (150/100). She jokingly says, "You know with having your baby 2 weeks early she won't be as big!" Now I know she means TODAY!

At this point Brian is choking or something because she asked Brian if he was sick. No just choking. And I am in complete shock! I literally couldn't even talk. I never thought that when I went to bed Sunday night the very next day I would become a mom. So Dr. Friday tells me to head on over to the hospital and they would be expecting me. I had so many emotions just running through my head. I still was prepared to carry this little one for another 2 weeks so I hadn't thought about the whole labor and mom thing yet. Maybe a good thing?

Well we drive home after calling work off (I still had 3 more days at Children's Orchard) and Brian was scheduled to work as well and also calling family to notify that we were on our way to parenthood. Grabbed the bags and stopped at Mc Donalds because I was informed they don't let you eat and headed the Mount Carmel East Hospital.

We got to labor and delivery at about 11:15 am, got our bracelets, filled out millions of paperwork (why do they have you pre-register to just show up and do more paperwork?), and found ourselves in our room. Boy those rooms were NICE! Any who, they wasted no time. They stuck some balloon thing in me to stretch out my cervix and got me dilated to a 3-4, then started the patosin (spelling?). In the meantime while they are monitoring things, the nurses keep telling me "oh you won't have the baby until sometime tomorrow." Which I was fine with until the contractions came on stronger.

The contractions weren't really too too bad until about 15 minutes after they broke my water (which they broke at 4:30pm). WHOA! Definitely the worst pain I'd ever felt at that point. Brian kept saying, "breath babe breath". Well you know I've realized that is ALOT easier said then done. Now I'm really really feeling the pain and call the nurse for the epidural which couldn't have come quick enough. The sting from the needle actually felt good because it relieved the contractions. Let me also note the most annoying thing to me now is: shivering cold, trying to hold still, while your blood pressure cuff is inflating, WHILE the bald man with a broken leg is sticking a needle that could paralyze one, WHILE one is having a contraction! All this at once really makes a hormonal pregnant women sent off the edge!

Now 15 minutes later, I'm on cloud nine. I loved everything. I didn't have a care in the world! So I planned Brian and mine television line up for that night. I was so excited to see the Bachelor at 8pm and True Beauty at 10pm.

So the nurse comes in and checks every so often and at about 7pm she says, "You are at a 9cm." What?! I totally thought she was kidding. She asked me if I had been laying on my back this whole time which I had because how was I supposed to move when my legs weighed as much as a pregnant elephant. So she turned me to my left side. BAD IDEA!! For some reason right then I started feeling the contractions again and I immediately called for her to come back to check my epidural and refill it or do something! Well they couldn't...baby was coming! They called Dr. Friday to come back to the hospital and had me do a few "practice" pushes. Well everything was down hill from there. After 15-20 minutes of pushing Ahlyssa was born at 7:52pm. (Just in time for the Bachelor :)

Dr. Friday and the nurses were so impressed of how quick my labor was. Especially since I was induced (again remember for high blood pressure) and being my first baby. I was so happy to have it all over with! Because 45 minutes of contractions and feeling the actual birth really took a toll and I almost just said, "Please just do a c-section, I can't do this!" But I didn't and I would do it all over again a millions time more to have her again.

So we got cleaned up headed to the recovery room were we called home for 3 days because once again my high blood pressure kept me there! :( But we had lots of visitors come see her and watched the "Big January Winter Weather Storm" from our huge window.

Now, here we are in our own cozy home and Brian has been off work since last Monday and will return tomorrow. I am so bummed because I have been so spoiled with him here. He is such an awesome dad. He loves her to pieces and will do anything and everything I ask. She is what we live for now and look forward to her journey in this life.

Here are some pics we took yesterday.

She absolutely LOVES covering her face with her mittens!

Just layin out on daddy

We call this her "Pirate Eye"

Thank you to everyone for the phone calls, food, love, and support as we celebrate this new life into our own. We love you all.

Video

2009-01-30T14:06:00.000-08:00

Ahlyssa Briann Carroll

2009-01-28T18:47:00.000-08:00

In her fish tank

SHE'S HERE!

2009-01-26T23:14:00.000-08:00

Well I just wanted to inform everyone that our little girl arrive a tad early! She came today about 8pm (I don't have the exact time cuz well I was out of it)! She weighed 7 pounds 8 ounces and she was 19 inches long! I will post pictures later!

Children Vaccinations

2009-01-24T20:07:00.000-08:00

I know I just posted yesterday, but I am wondering about something. I just purchased the book What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Children's Vaccinations. I have seen so many things lately on research comparing autism or other brain disorders to children vaccinations. I want some answers and so I bought the book. Is all this hype true? Why do doctors snub their noses at parents that question vaccinations? Parents just want to know the truth, so don't sugar coat it and say it! I totally understand that some if not all (haven't decided yet) vaccinations are completely necessary, but why start them so early when the infant immune system isn't even developed well enough to handle them? Why do doctors want to combine so many vaccinations into one...its not like there is any hurry, right? Is it so we don't take too much of the doctor's time? I am only on page like 25 but I already have some strong opinions, reservations, questions, and answers. The thing is: I NEED ALL my questions answered before I start immunizing my child. I hope reading this helps my frustration.

Just a few things....

2009-01-23T18:17:00.000-08:00

I finally figured out how to add other people's blogs to my page!

Here we are...37 (AND A HALF) weeks-full term! My new bed has become the couch because our bed just isn't cuttin it anymore. Although its extremely hard to get up off the couch-its better then the bed. I'm sure Brian is enjoying the bed all to himself!

I had a doctor appointment on Tuesday and not much has changed as far as the pregnancy. I am thinking some things have changed or progressed even since Tuesday. Although I thought that last time and I was wrong! We only have 18 more days. I can't to see her little face!

I have worked at Children's Orchard for about 3 and half years and I am thinking that its about time to throw in the towel. Luckily, I only have 2.5 days left!

My mom will be here in 15 days AND my birthday is in 14 days.

We have so much exciting things in the next 3 weeks to look forward to and well I think its safe to say that its pretty much life changing!

36 weeks...4 to go

2009-01-12T14:59:00.000-08:00

Today was my 36 week check up and things are looking a little s-l-o-w coming. She said that I was only dilated ONE centimeter. At first I was quite disappointed, but I am starting to think about my life with a child. I think I can hold out this pregnancy thing for another 4 weeks without much complaining. Don't get me wrong I can not wait to meet my little girl but I love my sleep (well the sleep that I do get), I love the time that me and Brian do get alone, I love being able to just walk out the door with just me and my purse (although my purse is the size of a diaper bag), and I love the fact that I don't have a constant worry about where, with whom, and what my child is doing. I know she is safe and sound inside of me. So for the time being I will embrace the rest of my pregnancy with little complaining. I will enjoy every kick of the rib, every jab of the bladder, and rhythmed hiccup. I will embrace my "hobbit" feet and sausage toes. I will enjoy my quiet, warm, comfortable bed. But don't worry ask me any day and I will know exactly how many days until February 10th. (29 more!)

I'm Leavin' on a Jet Plane...

2009-01-07T18:14:00.001-08:00

I just booked my ticket to go out and see my family at the end of July!! I am so excited and of course I will be bringing the baby so ALL the family out there gets to see her! Just thought I'd let everyone know! :) (Too bad California doesn't really look like that picture! :( But its definitely a lot warmer then here!)

2008 Holiday Season

2009-01-02T16:07:00.000-08:00

Well here we are...2009! Brian and I are so excited for this year. I think its going to be a great one. We will be welcoming our first child in about 37 days or less. And many other things we hope to accomplish this year. We have basically adopted the phrase "its now or never". If we accomplish everything we have set for ourselves, we want to reward ourselves with a cruise for our 4th anniversary!

Everything has been going good with the pregnancy. I am getting so anxious to actually meet her! I feel her ALL the time and I want to put a face to this movement! Everything is getting very hard to do. Work is probably the hardest along with bending over! There are other things that I could complain about but I don't think Blogger would appreciate it! I know anything in life that is difficult is completely and totally worth it! (Let's all just pray she comes a tad early! :)

Well let's get down to the past couple of weeks which have been great! For Christmas Eve we spent at Erika and Aaron's. We had a delicious dinner and watched the boys open gifts. Santa showed up and brought the boys one gift each to open. Jayden was completely freaked out and Zachary was just in awe that Santa was actually at his doorstep. Seeing the boys eyes light up with the Holiday Spirit makes me so excited to see Christmas through my own child's eyes next year!

Christmas morning we woke up about 10 and opened our stockings that we agreed we would just do to save money. Brian did a great job with the stocking. Santa would just stuff and stuff our stockings when we were younger. That was my favorite part of Christmas morning. So anyway he did good. I got a mother's necklace but I will be waiting to wear it until I am physically a mother! We spent Christmas at Brian's sister's house with all the family. Once again we had great food and got great gifts from his family. It's so nice to have family close by and share the holidays with.

So fast forward a week or so and a trip to labor and delivery....everything is good with baby...I slipped on some ice and fell but everything is good! Its actually quite funny now that we know she is okay. A bunch of girls that I grew up with here in Ohio were in town so we had a little shindig and hung out with our hubbys. Its nice to actually meet these people and not just read about them!

New Year's Eve was just another day to us. I've never gotten too excited about this day other then I get it off from work! Ashlyn was in town so Caitlyn, Ashlyn, and I got to catch up for awhile and I made it to Brian just in time to say Happy New Year (kiss), I love you, and good night!

So here we are just waiting for the day that our little girl wants to meet us. I've gotten everything pretty much washed and ready. I got our hospital bag and diaper ready today and bought a few things for Brian to do because of his ADD. I hope everyone had a great holiday season and hope y'all have a Happy New Year. Here's a quote my mom brought to my attention and I absolutely love it...."Find the joy in the journey". I hope you all are able do so in this new and beautiful coming year.

Sweetheart Tag

2008-12-03T18:54:00.000-08:00

Taken from Caitlyn's Blog...

My Sweetheart

Each person answers questions about their sweethearts.At the end of the post, the person then tags 6 people and posts their names; then goes to their blog and leaves them a comment, letting them know they have been tagged.

1. What is your husband's name? Brian Joseph

2. How long have you guys been married? almost 2 years and 7 months

3. How long did you date? 9 months

4. How old is he? 26 1/2

5. Who is taller? Brian-not by much :) he'd be mad at me for saying that!

6. Who can sing best? prob about the same....I sing but he is the musician.

7. Who is smarter? Brian has the book smarts, but I have the street smarts! He disagrees!

8. Who does laundry? Me mostly but he does sometimes.

9. Who pays the bills? Both

10. Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? I guess I do but he sleeps on my right. Its a bit confusing!

11. Who mows the lawn? Definitely no lawn, but I am sure he would.

12. Who cooks dinner? Both....he probably has more lately.

13. Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Me-once again he would disagree!

14. Who kissed who first? He kissed me...it took long enough!

15. Who wears the pants? We are pretty much equal.

Now, whomever feels inclined to do this, that's great! Have fun but don't fill it out with hubby right there! :) Love you babe!

[Title here]

2008-11-25T16:59:00.000-08:00

K-so I didn't have a cleaver title.

Any who, several things to catch up on...

1. I finished the nursery and yes she's not due until February BUT I became obsessed and HAD to get it done.

2. We got a new camera AND it takes video....lucky for you!!!!!!

3. The showers were awesome and we have just about everything we need at this point for our little one! We have been so blessed with great people around us! Thank you Mom, Erika, Donna, Sarah, Rachel, Kim, and Sandy for all your hard work, time, and money put into the wonderful showers!!!!

4. I got to see Twilight and really thought it was a good movie. Definitely will be interesting to see the rest of the movies...especially the last one...? a vampire baby?

5. I've been sick for about a week exactly and for some reason can't get over it! ugh!

6. The baby better be a girl or someone having a girl sometime soon will have won the lottery!

7. Thanksgiving is in 2 days!!!! Which means 4 days off work!

8. I am hopefully quitting Uno's soon!

9. This baby is trying to rip her way out of me (okay it just feels that way). She moves NON-STOP. But I am not complaining, its really reassuring! Especially since the Bebe Monitor can

only pick up the neighbors eating Frito's but not the baby's heartbeat! Word of advise to those who are thinking about purchasing one of those...DON'T-unless you want to spy on the neighbors!

10. I am 29 weeks prego! 3rd trimester-77 more days, 2.5 months, OR 11 weeks whichever to you sounds the closest to February!

Our little girl.......

2008-11-13T16:25:00.000-08:00

Here is a picture of Ahlyssa Briann about 4 years from now!

Time is FlyING!

2008-11-10T19:15:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to let everyone know...just incase y'all were wondering....91 MORE DAYS UNTIL THIS PRECIOUS BABY IS BORN well due (we'll see when she decides to pop out).

Also, this weekend is the baby shower that Brian's mom and sisters are throwing AND the baby shower the girls from work are throwing for us! I'll let ya know how those go and all the great things we get!

Take care for now ! :)

Baby Update

2008-11-06T17:57:00.000-08:00

I have realized that I haven't posted about my baby shower!

Well let me tell y'all the story (whether you care or not)....

I went over Erika's about 6:30 to help her a bit (although most things were done). People started showing up and just chatting. I was sitting in the front room (by the front door) with some gals and Erika was in the kitchen so it only made sense for me to answer the door when guests arrived. I think about 3 times guests showed up and the lovely ladies that I invited told me to stay put and she would answer the door. Well, about the fourth time around I think everyone was way into their conversations, so I got up and answered the door and you'll NEVER guess who was standing on the other side.......MY BEAUTIFUL MOTHER!

I looked at her for a second in either disbelief or shock or whatever but then I suddenly screamed "MOM!" startling everyone in the room and busted into tears! I could not believe my mom was there. Still brings tears to my eyes because I cannot tell you how much I wanted her there. Erika and my mom pulled every secret string possible for me to not ever know she was coming and they planned this in the summer! Erika called off my work from Uno telling me that we had to start trading weekends because so many servers wanted more hours (that's why I wasn't scheduled). She wanted me to babysit that Friday so I called of Children's Orchard a few months before that and all along it was so I could have more time to be with my mom since she was only in town that Wednesday night to Monday afternoon (although I didn't see her until Thursday evening).

Anyway, after all the excitement and tears of joy the shower moved on. A lot of women showed up and we received a lot of needful and adorable things. We played some fun games and ate some yummy nachos and pink lemonade. Everything was PINK and so cute! Along with many other wonderful gifts, my mom made the baby a baby blanket...for all of those who know me well enough know about my bebe. It goes everywhere with me and I STILL sleep with it every night. My mom made one for the baby that looks almost identical as mine (did 20 years ago). Now me and Ahlyssa can have bebes together.....oh how exciting! :)

I am so grateful to have such wonderful women around me that love me and are such a great example.

Thank you Mom and Erika for a perfect night and a memorable baby shower!

Here are some pictures of the decorations.

I thought I would post a picture of the baby's room and all the progress we have made....haha not really!! (as you can tell!)

Thank you, I've worked hard!

Now I thought I would post a belly shot...almost 27 weeks. We are almost to the third trimester...on the home stretch! :)

Pumpkin Show 2008

2008-10-19T16:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday Brian and I had our fun-filled-time-together day. We went shopping and headed off to the much awaited Pumpkin Show. We had the best onion rings and funnel cake ever! It was quite chilly but we kept warm. Here's some pics to enjoy. Next post will be the baby shower Erika and my mom have put together!! :) I wanted to point out that our camera is HORRIBLE and we will be getting a new and better one before the baby is born! (just a quick FYI)

1,069 pound pumpkin!

2,000 pound pumkin pie!

"THE" onion rings!

beautifully grown pumpkins, waxed, and ready to be carved

pumpkins carved into faces, the one on the right isn't quite finished as you can tell (no nose)

as the drums in the marching bands in the parade would pass by, our baby girl would bounce off all my organs in my stomach!

speaking of our little girl...the goregous dress shoppe we found, but much too expensive for infant dresses!!

the end to a great day!

This picture really had nothing to do the pumpkin show but I wanted to share. Its just about the only benefit to the location we live....

I just can't wait!

2008-10-16T18:39:00.001-07:00

I am so excited because this coming week is the baby shower Erika and my mom (from afar) are throwing for baby Ahlyssa Briann! Erie has put in a lot of work into this shower to make it fun and special and my mom has helped too! I can't wait for all the pink. I will post pic next week. I am so greatful to have such an awesome big sis and the best mom in the world....really she is!

Also, I am so excited because me and Brian actually get to have some time together this weekend! He actually gets 3 days in a row off because he hasn't had a day off in forever! We are going to spend all Saturday and Sunday because I don't have to work either! I am so excited to spend some time with him and enjoy his company. He means so much to me and I love him so much. I am so glad that we were married FOREVER and not just "til death do us part". I miss him and our time together. You would think he lived in another country! (It feels that way sometimes.) We are going to the pumpkin show this weekend! Yay for fall time!!!

Brian-the Banker

2008-10-11T20:10:00.000-07:00

I thought a snap shot would be appropriate for this post!

Brian has been working at First Merit Bank for about 8 months. He works his tushy off working there and it has shown. Every quarter the personal bankers have to hit a goal of getting a certain number of checking account, saving accounts, credit applications, loan, etc. He has been doing so well the few quarters he has been there but this past quarter is quite an exception. Every month the managers keep track as to where their personal bankers are with accounts. A manager from Blacklick called Brian to basically rub in that he has the banker that has the most accounts out of the region for the month of August. Well to make a long story kind of short Brian hit numbers for a record-breaking-never been done before quarter. He hit his goal PLUS more and that's never been done before in the Columbus region, EVER!! I am so proud of all his hard work and to accomplish something like it is so awesome! I just had to let everyone know how great he is doing since I don't write about him much! I love you baby! :)

IT'S A GIRL!!

2008-09-29T19:03:00.000-07:00

Well we finally got to see HER! She is doing so good and is measuring right and is one pound. She was moving all over the place so the profile ultrasound pic is kinda blurry and also we don't have a scanner, so I had to take pictures of the pics. Anyway hopefully you can see them well enough. Mom, the pics of the dresses are for you!! :) Missed you today! We also were privileged to get a 3-D pic...she looks kind of freaky. Don't judge her looks just yet!!

PROFILE

LEGS

FACE

3-D

FOR YOU MOM, well not for you but I thought you would appreciate these! :)

Small non-important update....cuz I'm bored.

2008-09-24T19:01:00.000-07:00

I finally finished Breaking Dawn. It took long enough. I would give it about a 6 out of 10. I would have to say that Twilight was the best and maybe should have ended there. But it helped me fall asleep when nothing else worked!
I get to go the dentist tomorrow. I say "get to go" because I am excited to get this tooth taken care of. I have never had such horrible excruciating pain in my life.
Only 4 more days until the BIG ultrasound! Don't fret I will post what the baby's color (gender)!!

It's Alive!

2008-09-21T17:17:00.000-07:00

Our little one made its presence know on Thursday. I wasn't sure if it really was the baby but the little one was movin' around yesterday evening and there was no mistaken it then! We find out what we are having in ONE WEEK! And tomorrow marks my "half way point" (20 weeks)! Boy, how time flies by!

I just need a minute.

2008-09-07T08:25:00.000-07:00

Well when Brian is watching his Indiana Jones, James Bond, or War movies on T.V, I get on the computer and just browse (I don't care to watch those and we only have one T.V with cable). I like to look up people's blogs, facebook, myspace (only because Alex will never use facebook) and I have learned a lot. I have found many people that I once knew at some point in my life and am grateful to reconnect with them and as well as keeping up with people that are currently in my life. Doing this has made me appreciate things in my life more and I have come up with a list that I am so grateful for. Brian because no matter how much crying, complaining, nagging, crying, yelling, reorganizing, crying, calling, whining, murmuring, and crying that I do...he still loves me and shows me that. My mom because no matter how times a day I call her to ask her where to find Lipton soup in Wal-Mart, or why I feel dizzy, or call and complain or cry she is right there to talk, to reassurance, to research and to tell me she loves me and how she knows if something is going on in my life 2500 miles away from her, she always knows! My dad because he has worked so hard all my life to take care of his family, is willing to go to a foreign country to fight for freedom and for his children's children and has no family or friends around him for all 10 months, works in gear head to toe covering his body in 120 degree temps but does it without a complaint, when I complain about the 75 degree weather here and I'm in capris and a tee! I am grateful for Chris, Jeff, Alex, and Marissa for the memories that I have of them when we were young and carefree. The many times that we would play freeze tag with those big green bushes with the winner "written on them". I will forever cherish my brothers and sisters. I am grateful for their spouses and children and the joy that they bring into their eyes. I am grateful for the older sister, Erika. How much I look up to for her diligence and integrity and for being an example and always being here for me. She always has the advice I need. I am grateful for Brian's family. How they have brought Brian up to become the man and husband he is and the example they've shown him. I am so lucky to have friends that will call out of the blue just to see how I am doing and we can pick right where we left off...even if it has been 5 years. I am SO grateful for good health. I am so blessed to be able to carry one of Heavenly Father's creations and be able to raise this child in my own home with a wonderful husband. And lastly I am so grateful for the true Gospel of Jesus Christ in my life. I never fully understood "Families are Forever" until today when I was "researching" people on facebook. I am glad that NO MATTER what happens to any of my family or my children I will one day be with them again. I am glad that I can know that and have comfort in that. I am so grateful for Jesus Christ, offering His life so that I can have a chance to live and repent and raise a family. I am grateful for the Atonement, that when I make mistakes (like I always do) I can repent of those sins and hopefully someday be with my family FOREVER.

So as you can see all because Brian watches those crazy boring movies...what came from it...I learned a lot! :)

Well, I finally did it!

2008-09-04T17:44:00.000-07:00

The spare bedroom became a "I don't know what to do with this, but I'll throw it in here and hope it disappears." Well disappeared it did. I finally tackled that room and everything that was in there now has a new home. The spare bedroom will soon become the nursery. Right now it holds a desk that we are trying to get rid of. I will post "after" pictures of the nursey when it actually becomes one!

Now you might be wondering where everything went...well lets just say that our bedroom looks like a dorm/storage unit. Erika said we could store our totes in her basement so that's where they will be heading soon. The clear ones will stay with us only because they food storage and well we might need those...but let's hope not!

Exactly, a dorm room!

Yes, that would be our bikes in our closet! This is how creative a person gets with very limited space. You shove things in spaces you didn't know you had or thought was even possible!

I thought it might be about time that I posted my little prego belly. Not that much there to tell that I'm pregnant but enough. Although I'm at that weird ackward stage where it looks like I am just gaining weight and people want to ask if I'm pregnant but know they should NEVER ask a women if she is pregnant. We go back to the doctor on Monday and so I'll post if there is any new news!

This Haute Mess

2008-08-21T02:13:00.000-07:00

Well here I am sick as a dog...really though what does that expression REALLY mean anyway? Any who...its about 5 in the morning and I can't sleep. I have a horrible cold and I have to wake up and work an 8 hour shift today and I can't hear, breath, or feel my stomach from coughing anymore. I guess I'll just suck it up and float through day with the picture of my bed in the head. Anyway, this pregnancy thing is quite something. Throughout the day I am so sleepy at times and I can't wait for bedtime. Then comes the middle of the night and I have to tinkle so bad and I just about run to the bathroom and I tinkle for about umm maybe a millisecond and I'm wide awake for the next 2 hours counting sheep (really I do that), thinking of the sex of the baby, or how grumpy I'm going to be because I know I have been awake all night. Everyone tells me that it prepares a pre-mother for the constant waking up with the baby. Okay well first, I don't have a child that is outside of me to take care of right now so I need my sleep to be able to take care of this child once it does come and be well rested for it. And my other concern on this matter is why isn't Brian waking up and peeing every 2 hours? He's going to have to share the waking up process with this child! Maybe every time I wake up to use the bathroom and I can't fall back to sleep, I'll wake him up to chat....boy I'd bet he'd like that! :)
Brian and I are doing some crazy pre-baby things. I just got a job at Uno to serve 3 times a week. I am getting anxious knowing about all the things that we still need and I really want to be all done buying all baby's big purchase items now so I figured if I got a job then I can get them sooner! Also, Erika and I are planning a shopping trip to Jeffersonville once I find out what I am having-I need money for that! :) We also need to get somethings fixed on Brian's car. That will become my car once we have the baby and I can actually drive a manual. Learning to drive a manual is the most frustrating thing I think I have ever tried! Also advice for those who haven't learned to drive one and will soon....DON'T HAVE YOUR SPOUSE TEACH YOU! I will be having Erika come help me out in the coming weeks. Brian is also getting a part time job. He has orientation for Fed Ex tomorrow morning. This way we can get our cars and student loans paid quicker and not have financial debt on our mind once Baby Carroll comes around. Its funny how this little thing that comes into your life changes EVERYTHING you think about and do!
Well although I complained earlier about the not so fun things about pregnancy I have been so blessed. I am still doing really well. I think I am pretty much over the morning sickness stage so I am happy to say I never got morning sickness! We went to the doctor last week and heard the heartbeat again and it was so loud! Dr. Friday said that it was a nice strong heartbeat and I was so proud! I gained 2 pounds and I'm hoping I continue on that slow pace of weight gaining! We go back to the doctor on September 8 for another checkup and then 2 weeks later finally have an ultrasound! I can't wait to actually see our baby! I mean trust me I love hearing and I haven't yet felt it but seeing it will make this all real. I am showing a little (at least to me). Some of my shirts I have just given up on wearing. All my pants I can still fit for the time being. This is just a fun time in our life right now!
Well I thought this would help me get sleepy but it hasn't worked so far. I guess I will try to go read my last few chapters of Stephanie Meyer's Eclipse.

Stolen Idenitiy, I mean Idea...lol

2008-07-28T18:33:00.000-07:00

I got this from Caitlyn...its really cute! Some funny things come from this and really brings you back to your childhood/teenage(hood).

1. As a comment on my blog, leave one memory that you and I had together. It doesn’t matter if you knew me a little or a lot, anything you remember!2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It’s actually pretty funny to see the responses.

2. Next, re-post these instructions on your blog and see how many people leave a memory about you. It’s actually pretty funny to see the responses.

Now after you do that, please send some baby girl names...just incase we have a girl because according to everyone we are, so we need to be prepared! (We are having a hard time with the girl names). We have already choosen Blake Joseph for a boy (for right now).

"Long time no write!"

2008-07-23T14:32:00.000-07:00

Wow, its been quite awhile since I have even thought about writing on this. So much has happened. Brian started a new job in February and works for a bank called First Merit. He is doing such a good job and I am so proud of him. Right now he doesn't get a lot of days off but is working so hard. The insurance is awesome which will be great because we found out in June that we are expecting a little one. We are so extremely happy and it couldn't have come at a better time. I have been doing really, really well as far as morning sickness goes. I haven't been sick at all and hardly ever get nauseous anymore. I have gotten that under control now. I do get sleepy still but I doubt that ever goes away! We will find out what we are having at about 21 weeks will be the early part of October. By the way I am due Feb. 10th 2009. I can't wait to know what we are having. Last week we had the blessed opportunity to hear the heartbeat. That was such a surreal moment. I don't feel like I am actually going to be a momma and Brian will be a daddy, but I know we are so ready. I will post pictures when I start to actually show. There's nothin' right now! We go back to the doctor again August 8th. I feel like I am extremely blessed for the opportunity to carry a child that was just not long ago with our Father in Heaven. This child whether it be a boy or girl will have an important mission to complete.
We also just had a great visit from my mom for about 5 weeks. Alex showed his little adult face around for about 2 weeks then headed back home to become an adult and get a job after just graduating high school. Marissa also was out here. I got a chance to spend a lot of time with them this time around because I am only working part time at Children's Orchard right now through out the summer. Unfortunately, they left yesterday and it was extremely hard this time to say "good bye" because I feel like being pregnant I just need my mom around 24/7. Although I am fortunate to have Brian's family and my brother and especially my sister close by. My mom will be back in Feb. for the birth. I really hope that I will be at least half as good of a mother as my mom is to me.
My dad is still in Kuwait. He still has about 6 months left and I know he is counting the days down until he can leave that place. Being there 10 months without family and friends (not being your co-workers) really can bring the spirits down of a person. We can communicate mostly through e-mail and he will call my mom just about everyday. He calls us about once every 2 weeks. We can't call him so we just e-mail when we have something to say. He really enjoys e-mails!
Well I think that is about all for right now. Hopefully I'll be about to get some pictures up and I hope to get the ultrasound pictures up when we get them.