Tuesday, April 29, 2014

HOT FOR PINK

The older I get, the more I realize that I'm hot for pink (with the exception of pastels, eww!). Here are a few of m' favorites!

THE GOODS:

Okay, and maybe a TINY part of me is really hoping this human inside me turns out to be a girl. 
There, I said it! I also probably jinxed myself BIG time by publicly stating it in the blogosphere. Oh, well!
P.S. Get ready for tomorrow's post. It will be chock-full of Mother's Day gift ideas. Woo Hoo!
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Monday, April 28, 2014

INSTA-LOVE: PART II

Last May, I shared some of my favorite Instagram accounts in this post
Well, it's time to spread the love once more! I've got another group of 'grammers whose pictures will leave you giddy and inspired:

  • @NANNERBURNS // Anna's images are so beautiful, I find myself wanting to leap inside them. Naturally, her blog, Dear Friend, is equally delightful. This teacher and self-described adventurer and optimist is incredibly talented!
  • @SHANNYDOOTS // A J.Crew junkie who sports some serious bling—two traits that make Shannon instantly endearing!
  • @THYME_IS_HONEY // Dani is the shop owner and blogger behind Thyme is Honey. I was sure we could best besties when I read she's also a compulsive organizer. The fact that she's a contributing writer for Beauty Bets only sweetens the deal—you know I love me some product reviews. Oh, and I'm smitten with her bow-tie wearing pup, Walter!
  • @MOSIE514 // A military spouse who spends her day dreaming she's Kate Middleton. In reality, Moe's a PA student (soon-to-graduate!!) who lives 400 miles away from her Marine husband. Learn more about her adventures here.
  • @CAITSCHLABACH // I only wish that I would have been introduced to Caitlin BEFORE we moved from Hawaii. Gah! Her pictures are just SO stunning, and they make me miss the HI life now, more than ever.
  • @_KAYLEE DAILY // I met Kaylee via blogging, and I'm certain this girl eats nothing but sunshine and doughnuts for breakfast. She's oozing with joy and sweetness! Can't get enough? Hop on over to her blog. I'm obsessed!
  • @LPODLICH // Laura of Beauty and the Beard is seriously the cutest. Sometimes I dream about the day I finally get to meet her. We'd share baubles and sip on Adult Shirley Temples. It's going to be epic!
  • @LAURENESSL // I attribute my urge to learn calligraphy to Lauren. She just makes it look SO cool! I'd give anything to attend one of her classes. For now, I'll live vicariously through her colorful images and website.
  • @EMFLEM // I was so excited to stumble upon Emily's blog and Instagram this past year. Her words are honest and her smile is contagious. You will adore her!
  • @DOMESTIKATEBLOG // Kate of DomestiKated Life shares my affinity for striped shirts. She knows how to throw a fabulous party and whips up cocktails that are almost too pretty to drink. Almost...
  • @SYCAMORESTREETPRESS // Each day, I look forward to #evaseverydayoflettering. Sometimes I think the quotes shared are intended for me specifically. They're always inspiring or witty. Check out Eva's online shop here.
  • @PARKERETC // Half Iowan and half Texan, Amy is a lifestyle blogger who settled in Brooklyn with her husband and daughter, Parker Mae. Her blog is one of my all-time faves!

Do you have a favorite Instagram account that I should know about?!
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Friday, April 25, 2014

LURVE LOAVE LUFF


Let's get right to it, shall we?
Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.
  • Genny Lace Espadrilles // After Sarah's "Easy Espadrilles" post, I can't stop thinking about these beauties. How about the studs on the heel?! They're outta control cute. I can't stand it! Please come live with me.
  • Basil French 75 // How do you feel about me assigning homework assignments on m' blog? This is a fun one, I promise. Could you do me a favor and sip on something with Gin this weekend?! Pretty please. Ever since I found out I was expecting, I've missed my dear friend, Hendricks. We never really formally said g'bye to one another, but I'm counting the days until our reunion in October. Now that I shared my sob story, are you up for the challenge?!
  • Essie Neons 2014 // Do shades of Essie nail polish EVER get old? I didn't think so. Naturally, I'm super pumped about the latest collection of neons. Is 'Too Taboo' the new 'Pink Parka'? My fingers are crossed!
  • Stripes & Tassels Linen Scarf // LEIF's latest batch of New Arrivals have me drooling. This scarf is my absolute favorite!
  • Red Cross Enamel Mug // Oh, and this vintage looking tin mug would look pretty darn cute in our kitchen.
  • Nora Suede Lattice Ballet Flats in Bright Clover // Hubba, hubba! J.Crew must have known I needed a pick-me-up.
  • This is Texas // My mom bought this book for the baby while we visited Austin. The illustrations are adorable and totally appropriate for a child who will call Swell Rio their birthplace. I can't stop flipping through the pages.
  • Orange + White Herringbone Pom-Pom Throw // No matter if the baby is a boy or girl, I'm certain this is a nursery need. Children must learn at an early age that pom-poms are magical. It's a proven fact.
  • Gold and Aqua Lamp // The Oh Joy! Land of Nod collection is heavenly. I was instantly drawn to the brilliant base.
  • HATCH Collection // This is one of those brands that I bookmarked in the event I got pregnant one day. Now that we're here, I can't help but wish I could have one of each piece. Why must they be so pricey?! Once again, my Champagne taste is curbed by my beer budget. Shucks! Also, is it normal to look as cute as these models while expecting?

There you have it, m' dears! Cheers to a snazzy weekend. Make it count. 

P.S. Is it just me, or does today's graphic look a little fuzzy?! Perhaps I stared at it too long. Fellow Photoshop nerds, any tips?!
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Thursday, April 24, 2014

THURSDAY'S THOUGHTS

A bundle of Ranunculus I picked up in San Antonio last Sunday.
THANKFUL FOR: As you already know, my mom and sister visited last week. They graciously showed up in Swell Rio and tackled every last task on my to-do list. It was a-mazing, and I'm incredibly grateful! This move was challenging in its own way, and there were times when Flyboy and I had a hard time envisioning our life in this new setting for the next three years. All of the love and support they showed us leaves me feeling hopeful and excited for what's to come. They planted bushes and flowers, emptied bags of mulch, rearranged knick-knacks and frames, shampooed our rugs, painted the baby's room, etc. It's just so nice to finally feel settled, and I owe it all to them. Things around here felt rather bleak, but now they look oh-so bright! Thanks Mom and Aub! xo

READING: On Wednesday, I had my first doctor's appointment in Swell Rio. We hit the 15-week mark on Sunday, and something inside me thinks that I should probably crack open some of the pregnancy and parenting books that I bought in a panic back in February. After initially receiving my Amazon order, I got overwhelmed by the information overload, silly illustrations, and poorly-designed covers. Eww! Why is it so hard to find a pregnancy book that isn't cheesy and smothered in pastel colors or patchwork?! Anywho, there's definitely a time and place for the nitty-gritty details, and I think I can finally handle the idea of reading my books with minimal sobbing and sweating. If I find that I'm STILL not ready, I'll just hide them in the baby's closet, grab the remote, and find comfort in the arms of Andy Cohen. Now that I think of it, does Bravo have a guide to babies?! Because I'd totally dig that.

THINKING ABOUT: I like to plan (duh!), but for some reason I tend to procrastinate when it comes to all this baby stuff (hence the book sitch). Weird, I know! Up until my mom and sister visited, I was content with letting the nursery be a room for staging and storing random knick-knacks and furniture. I guess a BIG part of me is still really afraid about how our life is going to change. Aside from being frustrated by my bloated midsection, it doesn't feel REAL yet, which made it perfect for me to avoid. Ha! Ha! While I'm sure this approach is normal and natural for some, it was time for me to face the next chapter head-on. Now that the room is all painted and we've placed a few frames and tchotchkes, I get a taste of what's to come. I'm not sure why it's so hard for me to allow myself to be excited, but I'm getting there. Reasons like this make me think we should find out the baby's gender. I'm definitely someone who needs time to digest all these ch-ch-changes. Also, I need time to plan the gallery wall... Hey, priorities!  

FEELINGWe ordered a few new pieces for our house from West Elm, and I couldn't be more excited! I didn't expect our order to process so quickly, and it looks like our new table, Parsons Desk, and chair will be here NEXT week. It's going to look SO good!

EATING: Now that we're feeling settled and every thing's unpacked, I've found that I have more time to try new recipes. Hooray for pinning meal ideas and really making them! This week I made Pasta with Pesto Cream Sauce and Grilled Salmon with Avocado Salsa. Tomorrow night, I plan on trying the Cauliflower Pizza Crust that everyone's been raving about. Have you tried it? Thoughts? Tips?

WATCHING: Speaking of AC in the NYC, did you catch the Atlanta Housewives Reunion this past Sunday? Holy buckets, that was crazy cakes! And why was Nene so quiet and moody? She gave Andy NOTHING but shade to work with. While I don't condone Porsha's actions, I probably would have responded the same way if I was being taunted by Kenya's scepter and megaphone. That girl is nuts! In light of the episode, it looks as though props have been banned from any future reunion shows. Bye, Ashy! 

LISTENING TO: There's something else I should tell you about Swell Rio... The local country radio station (one of two stations total) plays a George Strait song on the top of the hour. Pretty great, huh?! Little things like this make the honky inside me beam with pride. Also, it makes it really easy to tell what time it is. Bonus points for being punctual in the name of King George!

LOVING: Awhile back, my sister sent me an article about Oil Pulling. Have you heard of it? I'm obsessed with the results—it not only whitens my teeth, but it has numerous other health benefits as well. Each morning, I put a spoonful of coconut oil in my mouth and swish it around for 20 minutes, which allows all the gross bacteria to dissolve. I know that 20 minutes might sound like a long time, but you get used to it, I promise! Read more about oil pulling here. Your pearly whites will thank you.

 
What about you? How are you feeling today? What are you up to?
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Wednesday, April 23, 2014

NEED READ GREED


Today's Need Read Greed, courtesy of the lovely Katelyn Wood of LOVE. LUCK. KISSES & CAKE:
  • NEEDI have always believed that you should surround yourself with beautiful things that inspire and nurture your creative side—and I think that is especially true for a workspace! That is why I designed a lovely notepad to brighten-up any desktop and to make my notes feel extra smart and special! I also love writing with this classic fountain pen
  • READI adore Pride and Prejudice. There is just something about the gumption of Elizabeth Bennet and the timeless love story with Mr. Darcy that makes me swoon. Perfect for the bookcase, this set of Jane Austen Classics is a fan must.
  • GREEDClassic and feminine—I am obsessed with this Mansur Gavriel Bag! I like to imagine myself on a spring European jaunt in a cute vintage dress complete with this bag in toe.

Thanks for sharing, Katelyn
I think I need to wipe the drool from my face because that bag is so delicious. These are all such fabulous picks!



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Tuesday, April 22, 2014

SHOP SPOTLIGHT

Personalized Heart Notecard Set
Papercut Fabric Heart Notecard Set
Walnut Inkwell
Graphic Stripe Postcard Set
You Make Life Beautiful Notecard Set
Recipe Card Set
Envelope Liners
Hello Notecard Set
The week we moved out of our San Antonio apartment, I stumbled upon the cutest online shop, Yes Ma'am Paper + Goods. Naturally, I had to find a way to include one of Erica Loesing's adorable pieces on my blog, so I ended up creating an entire moodboard inspired by one of her simple stripe postcards. Weeks have passed since that post and I can't stop thinking about the lovely assortment of hand-lettered goodness. Because I believe it's my personal duty to share the most fabulous finds—paper fiends and card stock connoisseurs, I'm talking to you—I thought I'd dedicate an entire post to Yes Ma'am's products. Erica's designs would make the perfect gift (Mother's Day, anyone?! ) or a great reason to treat yo self—you know I'm a fan of that!

Feast your eyes, m' dears! This is one batch of fabulosity you won't want to forget.
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Monday, April 14, 2014

THE TRUTH ABOUT SWELL RIO

Before things get too comfortable around here, I thought I might explain the story behind "Swell Rio."

You see, Flyboy is currently stationed at Laughlin AFB—an Air Force training base about 9 miles east of Del Rio, TX (population 35,000). Not much has changed since we moved three years ago, but we definitely know what to expect this time around. We originally lived here from 2008 to 2011 while Flyboy attended undergraduate pilot training. Young and newly married, we were blissfully unaware of our end destination. We arrived in November 2008 and we had the hardest time explaining our new town to family and friends. It was only when they came to visit (God bless them!) that they really got a feel of what life is like in this small border town. Fast forward to 2014 and we find ourselves here yet again!

Around here, things are pretty simple and laid back. If you've got a hankering for Starbucks*, there's something you need to pick up at Target, or you need to fly out of the nearest airport—well, you're about 150 miles away, so you might as well make a trip out of it. In fact, the entire drive takes five hours round-trip, so get your iPod playlists ready m' dears. Feel the need to spruce up your wardrobe? Look no further than J.C. Penney or Ross. Gifts or knick-knacks? Your best bet is the True Value, and I'm not kidding. If you're like me and you desperately crave a J.Crew fix—well, then you better get to know the UPS man. The last time we were here, m' main man went by Jaime. Next to Flyboy and Tripp, he was like my favorite guy in all of Del Rio. Seriously. Oh, and an average Saturday consists of visits to Wal-Mart, HEB, or Home Depot. Polish off your day on the town with lunch or dinner at Chili's. If you're feeling particularly crazy, maybe go see a movie?!? Get. Out.

I should admit that I prefer to be spoiled with Trader Joe's and regular visits to Anthropologie, but I've learned to live without those joys for the time being. Believe me when I say that when I do get to visit my favorite restaurants, stores, etc., it's maj on a level even Rachel Zoe hasn't witnessed. Trips to the big city feel like Christmas and your birthday all rolled together.

We've been here for two weeks, which doesn't warrant any moping or griping; however, I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little bit afraid of what the next three years entail. Last Saturday, we hit all of the Del Rio hot spots, with the exception of the movie theater, and I got teary-eyed on our ride back to the base. I wondered, "Is this really what every Saturday is going to be like for the duration of this assignment?" Throw pregnancy hormones and the fear of how a baby will fit into the Saturday mix and I was a hot mess. No, this isn't the easiest place to live, but like most things in life, you have to work to see the good.

When you put aside the lack of amenities and the remote location, there's a diamond in the rough. It takes some effort to find it, but it's there. I can assure you! Live in a town like Del Rio and watch your priorities shift. Suddenly, you're more focused on friendships and barbecues and less preoccupied with your phone. I speak from experience when I say the Chili's and Tractor Supply routine can get really old unless you surround yourself with the best company. Amazing bonds are created when you live in an area like Del Rio. Some of our favorite memories hail from this very place, and I'm hopeful we'll create many more.

Back in 2009 during our first stint at Laughlin AFB, I remember emailing my dad. I'd heard a lot of people refer to this little ol' border town as Hell Rio. I thought it was rather clever (hence the remote location, temperatures hotter than Hades), so I opted to throw it into the message to my dad. Despite the fact that I couldn't take credit for the term, I just knew he'd find it humorous. When he responded, he referred to it instead as Swell Rio. I remember sitting at my computer screen and smiling—that was just like my dad. He knew that "swell" was one of my favorite buzz words and he used it in a way that reminded me of the person both he and my mom raised. Focusing on the negative is all-too easy, but it's an unhealthy and slippery slope. With 20+ years of military service and a handful of stressful moves, my parents endured a lot, but they always managed to find a silver lining, no matter what cards were dealt. They tackled the military lifestyle with so much grit and grace, and I'm determined to do the same.

That email from my dad taught me a lesson about perspective that I'll never forget. I can create beauty with my attitude, behavior, and actions—it's all up to me. There will still be good days and bad days in Del Rio, but when I refer to this border town as Swell Rio, it reminds me to see the good, no matter the circumstances. Some days are easier than others, but I've found that when you say it enough, you begin to believe it. At least that's my plan, and I'm sticking to it!

I hope today's post has cleared up any confusion regarding our current location. As far as I'm concerned, it will always be Swell Rio. Lucky for me, I've got a few years to see if it catches on this second time around.
P.S. I'm signing off for the week. My mom and sister are in town, and we've got a lunch date at Chili's! See you next Monday.

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Friday, April 11, 2014

LURVE LOAVE LUFF


Let's get right to it, shall we?
Here's what made me feel all twitterpated, smile contagiously, giggle uncontrollably, etc.

  • Oh, Audrey! // Can I get a "Yay!" for Friday?! That's the sweetest double-barrel grin, if I do say so m' self!
  • Colorblock Sweater // I snagged a sweater like this from J.Crew last spring and it's still one of my favorites.
  • Baggu Coin Purse // The canary yellow makes me want to do cart wheels. A pouch has never looked so happy.
  • New Arrivals at Rifle Paper Co. // I'm seriously smitten with their latest batch of notepads. The flamingo and legal jotters are adorable. After unloading my office supplies at our new place, I think I might have to hold off on more notepads. Gasp! Sigh. My desk is about to explode it's so full of paper. You know that's kind of a pride point, too!
  • Adventures // Change is never easy, but quotes like this remind me that everything is happening as it should be.
  • A Guide to Moss // I know I'm becoming my mother when I start pinning stuff like this... LOVE it!
  • Starbucks... in Swell Rio?! // Sweeter words have never been spoken. Yup, you read that correctly. It's really happening, people!! I never thought I'd see the day. This fall. Just in time for Baby Fine's arrival. It's like the coffee gods are shining upon us. They know we're going to need as much caffeine as we can get. Yahoo!
  • Lace-Up Espadrille // These are darling and they look über comfy. Can I? Pretty please? It's a Spring/Summer must!

There you have it, m' dears! Cheers to a snazzy weekend. Make it count. 
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Thursday, April 10, 2014

THURSDAY THOUGHTS


THINKING ABOUT: I've done a pretty good job of sorting through our stuff and donating anything we don't need or want; however, I've got a small pile of things just hanging out in the future nursery, and I can't help but scratch my head because I have NO clue where I'm going to store it. This house is a decent size, but the bedroom sitch is throwing me for a loop. I think they took a 2.5 bedroom unit and turned it into a 3 bedroom; therefore, making the rooms a lot smaller than normal. Oh, and don't get me started on the placement of doors and closets. It's a doozy, m' dears! I'm trying to approach this challenge with optimism (I've got this!), but my potential storage options keep getting fewer and fewer. I guess it's time to get crafty and pray that NO ONE ever opens a few of the closets. Some times organization and function go out the window when space is at a minimum.

FEELING: Did I tell you that my mom and sister are coming to visit next week?! Eek, I'm so excited! As their arrival gets closer, I find myself smiling like a buffoon and prancing around on my tiptoes. Isn't family wonderful? I mean, they're both willingly coming to Swell Rio to visit us at our new home. If you're familiar with the area, then you know this is quite the selfless act. There's not a lot to do in this area, and it would probably make more sense for me to go and visit them. Ha! I'm not sure what sorts of fun-tivities are in store for us next week, but I look forward to getting their opinions on where to hang things on the walls and input as to how I should repurpose knick-knacks. I still haven't decided whether or not I'll blog next week, but I'll keep you posted.

READING: This week has been a busy one, so it's taken me awhile to read and respond to all of your wonderful comments regarding Tuesday's post. I'm overwhelmed by your kindness and well wishes. Thank you all in advance! I was so nervous to share the news with you, but your reactions didn't disappoint. I promise to get back to each and every one of you personally within the next few days. We're still getting everything squared away with our household goods, in-processing appointments, April pen-pal assignments, prepping for guests, etc., but I have every intention to reply ASAP. You can count on it!

EATING: I should take a brief moment to mourn the "unconscious coupling" of Gwyneth Paltrow and Chris Martin, but I'd like to celebrate Gwynnie's Roasted Chicken recipe. I made it this week for the first time, and I totally understand why it gets the Goop seal of approval. It was delish and super simple! I can definitely see it becoming a weekly staple around here.

WATCHING: SPOILER ALERT regarding the HIMYM finale. If you've yet to watch the finale, you might want to hop on down to the next topic. Now, for those of you who tuned in and watched it, what are your thoughts? I was shocked by the backlash. I can see why some people were disappointed; however, the entire show has been centered around Ted and his ongoing love for Robin. I thought the story line was rushed in the final 40 minutes of the episode (so much happened so quickly), especially because we spent this entire last season AT THE WEDDING, which felt like forever. Ha Ha! I really think the way the show ended was realistic in a lot of ways. Life is a little bit more messy and endings aren't always as we might imagine. I feel at peace with the final episode, but I will say that it has made watching reruns a little hard. All this time I wondered how it would end and now I know! I really can't wait to hear what you have to say. I only wish I was blogging last week so this conversation wasn't delayed any longer.

LISTENING TO: We got a new washer and dryer last week and it plays the silliest tune whenever a load is finished. I thought it was cute at first, but after doing endless amounts of laundry, it's absolutely annoying. Flyboy and I find ourselves whistling or humming the melody because we've heard it frequently. Make it stop!

THANKFUL FOR: When I learned that I was pregnant, I obviously told my closest family members. However, I knew I needed to talk to someone my age who recently experienced pregnancy, especially someone I could trust to keep the news hush hush. The blog world has been a true blessing in my life, and thankfully, I thought of two dear bloggie friends I knew I could email for honest advice and words of wisdom. I don't think I could have survived the first trimester without encouraging emails from Mary of Tulips and Flight Suits along with Meredith of It's Like This. Somehow, they both managed to validate the roller coaster of emotions that I was feeling. Their words were so authentic and reassuring. Whenever I felt overwhelmed or unsure about this new season of life, I'd turn to their emails for encouragement. Although it's still weird to think we've never met in person, their friendship and kindness has meant the world to me. The comfort I felt while corresponding with them was similar to the way you might feel with an old friend. I even had Flyboy read excerpts of their emails so he was aware that the way I was acting or feeling was apparently quite normal. God bless anyone who has put up with my crazy the past few months. You all deserve the shiniest medals!!

LOVING: After months out of the saddle, I was eager to hop on my spin bike again. I managed to find a few prenatal workouts that I enjoy. Woo Hoo! That being said, I'm not as good as I once was, but I'm trying, and I feel better already.
 
What about you? How are you feeling today? What are you up to?
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Wednesday, April 9, 2014

SHOP SPOTLIGHT: POPPIES FOR GRACE

Wow! I'm absolutely overwhelmed by yesterday's well wishes regarding Baby Fine. Thank you all very much! You definitely know how to make this gal feel oh-so loved. Your comments, emails, etc., were incredibly encouraging. It's not easy for me to keep important info from you and getting all those feelings off my chest made me want to explode with glee. Phew! The honesty and excitement make me feel like celebrating in a virtual kinda way. Wanna join?! Perhaps some balloons, confetti, and garland from Poppies for Grace?! This is one of those online shops that I love to have in my back pocket, just in case there's a need kick up your heels and be merry. Then again, we could always just agree to celebrate the everyday and keep a few of these party supplies handy!

Here are a few of my festive favorites from Poppies for Grace...
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Tuesday, April 8, 2014

BLAME IT ON MAUI

My Little Fine's ETA: October 12, 2014
In my mind, I've written this post a gazillion times over the past two months. It's finally time to share the BIG news, and I'm at a complete loss for words. How can that be? It was so hard to remain tight-lipped and now that I can finally share it with you, I don't know what to say. We're expecting!! I blame it all on our trip to Maui in September 2013. Let me explain.

Last fall, we hopped over to The Valley Isle for a little getaway. It was our last Hawaiian hurrah before we moved to Texas—one of those blissful trips you catch yourself daydreaming about—one that's brimming with unforgettable memories. It was the trip that Flyboy cycled the shores of Maui to the summit at Mt. Haleakala. The trip where we sipped fizzy gin drinks by the water. I devoured the most insane ice cream sandwich ever. Oh, and we made a pact to start a family in the coming months. Say what?! Yeah, those are the kinds of moments you can't capture on Instagram. Perhaps we were under some sort of vacation spell, or maybe we were surrounded by friends who were embarking on this next chapter themselves, but we decided that I'd finish off my last three-month prescription and leave the rest to fate. From everything we'd heard and read, conception could take up to six months or even a year. Ha! As the last of my pills began to disappear, I got cold feet. In early November, I wanted to renege on our decision at the last minute, but Flyboy reminded me about our pact. I was impressed by his persistence and a little bit scared, but we made an agreement. Not to mention, is there ever really a GOOD time? And we knew we'd start our family while we were living in Swell Rio.

Little did we know that on Valentine's Day of 2014 our lives would change forever. I woke up that morning and felt under the weather. I expressed my concerns to Flyboy and asked him to pick up a test on his way home from work. That morning, I was a ball of nerves. I just had this weird feeling "it" was really happening. To take my mind off of things, FB persuaded me into dancing to Pharrell's "Happy" at around 5:30 am in the kitchen. At that point, it was part of our morning routine. It helped slightly, but I spent the remainder of the day pacing and my mind was racing. I didn't feel happy. I felt so confused. What if this was actually happening?! When he arrived home from work, I took the test. It was positive. FB was grinning from ear to ear, and I was bawling. I wish I could say they were tears of joy on my part, but I was in absolute shock. It wasn't supposed to happen this quickly! Am I really fit to be a mother? Tending to your American Girl dolls as a young girl is NOT the same thing as motherhood. Also, are we even old enough to be parents? Oh, and what about all the things we wanted to do before children? Clearly I had a lot on my mind, and I was thankful my parents were stuck at home with another snow day. I NEEDED to tell them. In my mind, I'd always dreamt about sharing this kind of exciting news in a creative and thoughtful manner. However, I knew I couldn't wait. I tell them everything. I HAD to talk to my mom. I needed her to tell me this was going to be alright.

Two months have passed, and I still call my mom frantically to ask her silly questions about pregnancy and motherhood. Aside from crazy hormones, random bouts of morning sickness, and a midsection that appears more like beer bloat than baby, not much has changed. If anything, I just really miss my occasional Hendrick's and Limonata cocktail—but you probably already guessed that, didn't you?! I still don't know why this is happening now. In fact, I realized that I don't know a lot about anything anymore, and I was really starting to get a hang of my twenties. Ha Ha! These days, I have more moments of doubt than excitement, but I DO know that I'm surrounded by the greatest support system. The hope and joy our family and friends have bestowed upon us makes me feel so blessed. This child is going to be so loved. I can assure you there will be plenty more neurotic moments on my part, but each day the cautious side of me allows myself to grow a little more excited and a lot more attached to this person growing inside me. Sharing this news with you is just as important to me as it is to share with close family and friends. You've become such a meaningful part of my life, and I'm elated to welcome this next chapter with you. Thanks for being part of this adventure!

Some day when I'm less ramotional (RHONY, Bravo, anyone?!), I'll share some of the funny details from these past few months. 
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