Life is a whirlwind...again

What can I say? Working full time with two kids is hard. HARD. I don't care who you are. It is hard physically and emotionally. I am constantly exhausted. You think having a newborn is hard? Try getting up to go to work when you only have 4-5 hours of sleep a night and you never get a day off because your hubby works Saturdays and church is at 9:00 am Sundays. Do you feel sorry for me yet? Good. Now that that's outta the way....

Life is crazy right now. I am trying to slow down and enjoy every minute, but it's hard when you feel like you are missing your kids growing up. Just this morning, Christian woke up as I was leaving for work and started to cry and beg me not to go. Heart breaking. With that being said, I am grateful for the job that I have and that I am able to keep a roof over our heads while Jared continues to progress in his career. Speaking of which, the new salon is scheduled to open November 15th which is very exciting! Jared will be doing hair there as they get things finished up the month before, but I can't wait to see how everything turns out. I really feel like this new set-up is a blessing for our family and I hope it affords us the opportunity for me to stay home. Fingers crossed!

In other news, last month we were able to have Leila blessed in church. My-oh-my what a beauty she was that day. It was such a special day - even though I was a hot mess (picture unecessary stress and quite a few tears! I am so grateful that both sides of my family love me regardless of my breakdowns....or at least pretend to!), Leila was a sweetie. She cried a little as Jared held her, but soon she was encircled by the men in our lives (although some were missed....Jon and Al!) and she calmed right down. The day was beautiful and sunny and the spirit was strong. Afterward, we went back to our house for a delicious nacho bar. I am so grateful for all the people who came and supported us for her special day. Here are some of my favorite shots from the day.  

Daddy and Leila before church. The dress and bow were courtesy of a very close friend who made them especially for her!

Love my little princess. She is such a smiley baby!




Jared's side of the family...well...some of them!

 And for your viewing pleasure - here are my two freaking adorable kiddos. I know, I know, just as I said that you want to roll your eyes and tell yourself that they aren't that cute, but before you do just remember...I always think your babies are cute so you better appreciate mine. ahahaha Enjoy the cuteness that follows!



How can you not love his sweet face and her squishy thighs?

Big brother kiss! What a tender-hearted boy I have.

Leila: Me? Cute? Tell me something I don't know!

Beautiful blue eyes! Christian's are blue, but hers are different. They are so deep and dark blue...I hope she keeps them!

Finally caught him looking at the camera and now Leila looks away! Blasted kids!

I think she is gearing up to slap him.



They are so happy together.

It's hard to believe that these two cuties are mine and Jared's, huh? Believe me...I am surprised too!

CHRISTIAN: Loves Thomas the Train, Suuuuuuda (=soda), his binkie and blaaaaanket, running around like a crazy person, singing the "ABC's", "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star", and "Jesus Wants me for a Sunbeep". His favorite food is macaroni and cheese, he tries to fight me for fruit snacks all the time, even if he just woke up in the morning. His favorite cereal is...cereal and milk and strawberries (translation + Special K w/ strawberries). His best friend is still Elaine, but Brooklyn is coming in at a very close second and may soon overtake that coveted spot. He loves to snuggle mom and dad and read books. He is getting more coordinated and more used to his long arms and legs and big feet. When he throws things I always cover my face because that kid can THROW. His favorite numbers are 8, 13 and 16. Oh and he loves to WHINE. Blah. Very much looking forward to that stage ending.

LEILA: Well, she is balding in the back - I guess it was inevitable. She is still sleeping great, usually 10 hours a night and is down to 5-6 feedings. When I go in and get her in the morning she gives me a big open-mouthed grin and starts kicking her arms and legs in a frenzy; I love her enthusiasm! Leila still has the deepest voice I have heard in a baby and I have come to find that translates into her laugh...it is almost a growl; HILARIOUS!. She looks great in pink, just as a little girl should. Right now she is loving her little play mat, but if she is being held, she wants to sit up and see the world. I have noticed that even though she is super easy-going and sweet, that she is unwavering. With Christian, he always knows exactly what he wants and is very determined. Leila is stubborn. She isn't a punk, but doing things her way, on her timeline, is a must or she fights you BIG TIME. I can't wait to see what happens as she gets older. Oh well, I guess if she is gonna be hell on wheels, at least I will be well-rested :D