Isn't she purrrrrrrty?

For those who know me well, know that I am a sucker for handbags. And so it should come as no surprise that I am a sucker for their distant cousin, "diaper bags". Well, diaper bags that don't look so diaper-baggy! ;)

I thought I found "the one" right before Christmas and happily included it on my Christmas list to Chris...sadly, when it arrived two weeks early, it didn't "speak" to me as I hoped. So back she went and instead, a sewing machine was bumped to the top of the list (yes, yes...a few blog entries back) ;)

I LOVE my petunia pickle bottom bag (thank you miss Jen!) and it will be my main "go-to" but I was still in the market for one that I could also take to work and use it as a combo bag! Completely disguised of its diaper-carrying abilities.

And after days of casual yet obsessive internet shopping...I found her. On my bright, unassuming, 14 inch computer screen, I knew she was for me. Sadly, it wasn't until I was about to hit the "complete order" button that I had a painful flashback of December's purchase. I didn't want to be disappointed again and go through the money-wasting process of shipping her back to the factory. So would you believe, it was another 4 days and MANY more internet searches, before I finally pulled the trigger. Holy cow...I am turning into my husband!

Worthy of a blog entry you might ask? Why yes, yes it is.

She arrived first thing this morning and was better than I had hoped for! We were a perfect fit instantly and she was exactly what I had in mind. My first Mia Bossi and I was more than pleased.

To think...if I feel this way about a bag...I think Avery and I have the potential for quite the connection! ;)...

Almost there...

It feels like a HUGE weight has been lifted off of me now that I am finished with work...for a least a little while!

Yesterday was my last day of work until I finish maternity leave and already, I can feel the benefit of leaving early. I absolutely love my job and love being busy so I never expected to feel this way. But I guess it wasn't until I hit a massive emotional wall on Monday that I realized...something's gotta give.

And it wasn't until after my Tuesday doctor's appointment that I realized that "something" was work. Jim and Ash were very supportive of my early departure (even though it wasn't that early)...and sweetly sentimental the last couple of days before I left. I will miss them a lot but it will be nice to spend these next couple of months focusing solely on being a mom and taking care of baby Aves ;)

Although sad to leave yesterday, I took a deep breath and happily moved to the start of such an exciting chapter!

My anxiousness for Avery to arrive is still very high but the idea of a few days to rest and have to myself does sound quite appealing. I was soooo relieved that I was able to fit in one more hair appointment yesterday before the big day and sooo thankful to my amazing hair stylist, Lori who is 36 weeks preggers and STILL working like crazy! I just don't know how she does it! Simply amazing.

Today was incredible. After a morning stroll with the pups, I met Jordan and Brooks for a delicious breakfast outside in this perfect January weather; something I could get used to during mat leave ;) Can't wait to bring Avery along (outside my belly that is!) I then headed to Barnes & Noble in search of a new book that I can really dive into! I have been in a reader's slump ever since my affair with Harry Potter and although I have been distracted by MANY pregnancy books these last 8 months, I am pretty burnt out on that topic. ;) I got home in time to visit with my mom for a little while! She dropped off an adorable Valentine's onesie for Aves! Too cute! What next on this excellent Friday? A 4 mile walk with Susan and Campbell on the Bridle Path! I am trying.

Chris and I had a great dinner at Babbos' and picked up some of that delicious Snickers' gelato to go! The rest of the evening I have spent cleaning, doing laundry, washing & sterilizing bottles and just plain...getting ready! I mean, I was actually giddy washing the bottles. I know, I know...it most likely will NOT be like that in a few weeks but let me have my moment.

As odd as it sounds, today was one of the best days I have had in as long as I can remember. I feel at such peace and just...happy. I feel this journey of pregnancy coming to a close and a sense of getting back to "Kelley". I know it sounds silly but I've felt a loss of identity throughout this pregnancy and cannot wait to be "me" taking care of my baby. I just feel so close to being myself again and as a result, feel the self-encouragement I was lacking that reminded me, I will do okay...I will be a great mother. I can't wait to see how it all plays out but I feel like this has always been a calling in my life and God's timing for me to be a mom is now. My excitement is at its highest point.

Even though I pray it's sooner, here's to my last week of pregnancy!...

Single Digit Bliss?

It only "kind of" seems like just yesterday I was posting the excitement of "99" days remaining! Now, to think...just 9 days remaining in this pregnancy. Wow.

The doctor's update you ask? Both eventful and not. Uneventful because I am still only 1 cm dilated. Then again, she said for a first pregnancy, that's actually good. She did happen to say "poor thing, that baby's head is right there on your pelvis!" TMI perhaps? Maybe, but at least there is a reason for this pelvic pain and embarrassing waddle! And to really look on the bright side, my baby has a head! Not funny?

Eventful because my next appointment is Tuesday and although that seems like an eternity away, we will re-evaluate then and she will put me on the induction list at my hospital. Since my hospital is really busy and clearly in high demand (darn you Britney Spears!) it might take a few days to actually get in. So technically, I could make it to my due date but hey, I will just be happy to know it will happen by late next week! If not SOONER!!!! Ohhhh let's still hope for sooner. I cannot believe how tight my stomach has felt this past 3 days or so. I am literally running out of room for her and if my posture is anything less than perfect, I lose all capability of breathing. Details.

My doctor did give the ol' suggestion to wrap things up at work since she wasn't crazy about my blood pressure. I hate to leave my guys early but the idea of having a few days of true rest before she arrives, actually sounds incredible! Work has been serving as a great distraction but this week has been especially tough. I feel ready for a nap by 9am and emotionally drained by updating every single person in the office. Sweet that they care but it's all too much. I do feel blessed though that I work in such a wonderful, caring environment. I really love the people I work with and am sad to be leaving for a couple months. This is what they call bittersweet, my friends.

All in all, knowing that I really am so close, will push me through. I'm scared to know how many blog followers I have lost through this past month of grumpiness but if it helps, I have a feeling there will be some really great entries ahead!

Please keep us in your prayers!

Quick update...

Not too much to report but thought I would at least check in and let everyone know...I AM STILL PREGNANT.

I have a doctor appointment this afternoon and will hopefully have something positive come from it. Like I always seem to wish for, maybe she will simply say that I am in labor. At least I know one thing for sure: I am close.

My patience has been tested further with long days and little sleep. But I will say, Chris has been incredible! He has completely spoiled me this last week with massages, bags of donuts waiting for me at home and sweet, thank you cards! His excitement for Avery to arrive only adds to mine. Besides, I think we both realize it's better for our marriage to be excited rather than impatient!

Last night, I found a burst of energy and managed to catch up on laundry and wash the pups! Then I was able to cuddle on the couch on catch up on the Bachelor. It was more fun to make fun of the girls with Chris than watch the actual show!

And although I didn't sleep at all last night, I am feeling pretty energetic today. Stay tuned for the doctor's update!

Two Great Discoveries...

I know I am behind the curve on this one but 5th & Wine!?! How have I not gone to this place sooner?? Then again, it's probably a good thing I only just tried it because it's the perfect atmosphere for food and WINE! I have a feeling I will be dragging Chris here quite a bit for a glass of wine and good music post pregnancy. A perfect date night spot.

Annnd, a perfect spot to catch up with the BS Group girls! Last night was so much fun but when has it not been when I get to visit with them?? I am excited for the next BS adventure and it's crazy to think that I will actually be without child in belly! It seems like I have been pregnant forever when it comes to all the past BS Group gatherings. Soon enough!


I stopped for some Gelato Spot on the way home (an earlier suggestion of Jamie's that I couldn't seem to get out of my head) and ordered my usual Stracciatellaa but couldn't quite decide on what to get Chris. I went with their Snickers gelato and OH MY GOODNESS! Big mistake! ....sort of! Sadly for Chris, he didn't have a shot at the Snicker's! It was Stacciatella for him as I devoured the yummy new flavor! A flavor that's probably been around since store opening but only a recent discovery for me. It's a blessing in disguise for my waistline and wallet that I just found out about this...so late in pregnancy and all. Is it pathetic that this discovery kind of makes me want to stay pregnant?! hahahaaa.....JOKING!!!!!

Oh and a quick update...
Yes, I did my stairs today. No labor.

Yes, people keep asking me why I am still at work. It's not time people. It's not time. (Jess, maybe I should throw things at them!) ;)

And a totally random comment from a little scuttle at work today...I HATE WHEN PEOPLE ARE TOO "BY THE BOOK" AND HAVE AN OBSESSION WITH POWER SOLELY BECAUSE THEY ARE NOT HAPPY WITH THEIR LIFE. So sad for them. If only they knew how to look at the BIG PICTURE and step out of their miserable state of being. That's all. Just HAD to get that out.

Jamie's New Blog!

That's right folks, the excitement of my blogging world has expanded. I have yet another amazing blog to follow and for all of my personal followers, I know this will come as great news to you too!

Jamie Gulliver (my sis) has kicked off her own, life blog as of yesterday and already, she is on fire! I have no doubt that her blog will be incredibly entertaining and a must-read in no time! After all, she has 9 entries racked up already. I know...a force to be reckoned with.

If you don't know it yet, you will quickly learn that James has a way with words and is FUNNY. This is going to be great!

Her blog is: http://alifesheloved.blogspot.com/

Don't forget to sign up as a follower :) Let the fun begin...

Keeping it interesting...

If climbing 12 flights of stairs, two at a time, in heels, carrying a 7lb baby doesn't induce labor...then at least I am getting a head start on getting back to my pre-pregnancy body!

It's been my new daily routine when at work and worth a shot. I am trying almost everything. Last night I had pineapple for dinner with a side of tonic water (thanks for that suggestion Jen!)...three glasses over the last week hasn't done much though and boy is it gross. hahaa! It's fun to try a few different things but at the end of the day, I know nothing will happen until my body is truly ready. Blah blah blah. ;)

The nausea returned abruptly at 3am last night but regardless, I am in great spirits! Feeling a lot more motivated at work and thankful for the distraction! Not to mention, tonight is dinner with the BS Group ladies and I am ALWAYS happy to see them! And tomorrow is 38 weeks annnnd I have a scrapbook class on Sunday! A nice little schedule on tap...

Oh! And for all of you who like The Office as much as I do, it's finally back on tonight!! Let's pray Holly gets it together and falls for Michael! ;) We need something worthwhile for the final season. Tear.

Happy Thursday to everyone!

Doctor Update

I was definitely in a much better mood this week when leaving my doctor's appointment than last Tuesday. That's probably surprising since I am still only 1 cm dilated with no real news to report. But in effort to look on the bright side, it is 1 more week closer to my due date and the update on Avery's kidneys was positive! After many ultrasounds throughout this pregnancy (which were more fun than anything) they revealed that although her kidneys are on the larger side within "normal", their range hasn't changed. They've stayed consistent throughout which is a good thing. A piece of good news that put a smile on my face.

Yesterday was her final ultrasound until birth and I still find them so exciting! The ultrasound tech's estimates were a weight of 6 lbs, 15oz with lots of hair and by her opinion..."chubby". Again, sounds like my baby to me :)

But if I am being completely honest, my attitude these days hasn't been as chipper cheery as the above paragraphs lead on. I am fighting every day to remain patient and positive! The truth is, I am done with ulrasounds...I want to SEE my baby! Call me greedy but it's all I can really think about. I guess I am just what they call "ready". I am working hard to stay motivated and productive at work and continuing to answer the VERY COMMON question..."you're still here??". Yes people, yes I am. ;)

16 days is better than 100 days though. Besides, it's not like I am the first woman in the world to be emotionally overdue. I can do this!...

Another highlight to the weekend :)

Another reason why this weekend was so busy and eventful was because Chris' brother, Drew and his wife Jenn had their little baby girl, Alexis!

Alexis Vicki Morrison was born at 12:02am on January 16, 2011. She was 7 lbs, 3 oz and 20.5 inches long! Fortunately for Jenn, she came 1 week early and is cute as can be! She already seems to be such a good baby and has cried very little.

As tired as I was, Chris and I headed out to Surprise at 11:30pm in order to see her that night! We didn't get home till 4am and asleep till about 6am! It was worth it though; I am such a sucker for babies and seeing that precious little girl was a great highlight to the weekend! Not to mention, got us that much more excited to meet our little one!

We went to visir her again last night and see her open those adorable eyes! Amazing.
I have never seen Drew look happier! It was the sweetest thing and made me sooo happy for both of them!

Welcome to the world Alexis!...

Jamie's "Farewell for Now" Party

Yesterday was such a fun day celebrating Jamie's new adventure: her move to San Diego! Naturally, no one is excited for her to go; we are just excited for her! And Jereme, that lucky little duck. Boy does he make out well in this little transaction ;)

After 2 days of nausea and very little sleep, I didn't know how I was going to pull off this get together. And guess what, I didn't! Thanks to the amazing Kristin, she made it all happen! This never could have gone on without her and I am so grateful for all she did to make this so special for James. From the incredible puff balls to all the beer, napkins, etc., she out did herself. Thank you, Kiki, from the bottom of my heart!

Rory spent over 2 hours making 50 plus of his "famous" tacos and they seemed to be as much of a hit as we were hoping for them to be! As a vegetarian, I naturally didn't try them but the tostados alone were incredible so I can only imagine!

4am...anyone out there?

4am and wide awake!

Well, I am not completely wide awake...I just can't sleep but I guess by now, I am getting used to the unpredictability of my sleeping habits. Yes, great preparation.

I literally cannot remember the days when my body let me sleep for more than 8 hours without ANY interruption or any recollection of dreams the next morning. But as I learned VERY well in college, it's possible to survive and thrive, on little sleep. In college, it was my choice to sleep so little by booking night-nanny jobs and waking up so early to run. Maybe that was my subconsciousness foreshadowing my future need to live the same lifestyle...not so much by choice now...well, sort of ;)

Yesterday I was feeling pretty nauseous and had a major onset of allergies. Weird. Hopefully today will be better but fortunately, I have time to rest and catch up on my sleep. It will be cupcake baking, errand running, and a cleaning day to prepare for Jamie's going away gathering tomorrow :) Hard to believe she is really moving. It comes at the best and worst of times. Best because I am very distracted by having a baby and Worst because I am having a baby. You look at her for 2 seconds though, and realize how happy she is and how right this move is. It fills my heart. Jamie is just going to continue to "move mountains". Talk about fun to watch.

It will be nice to see family and friends tomorrow and then Monday should be a great day! A 9:30am ultrasound...my 8th! And a 3pm massage and the wonderful Joya Spa! Just as an fyi, Mondays they have their "happy hour" rates (aka, 1/2 off)...very hard to pass up at 37 weeks pregnant.

Well, off to go do something. Something quiet because Daisy has been giving me the evil eye ever since I disrupted her precious sleep. Hopefully the sun comes up soon...a nice morning stroll would be nice. REALLY nice if it induced labor ;)

Annnnd, hopefully all my blog followers are snuggled in their beds right now and the sun will be high and bright before this entry is read :)

FULL-TERM!

Wow! I am HUGE!

As much as I am ready for this pregnancy to be over, today marks an incredible milestone that puts a huge smile on my face! 37 weeks...FULL-TERM! In other words, my baby is fully developed and would no longer be considered premature if she were born now. What a blessing to have made it to this point and my prayers now ask that when she does decide to make her grand appearance, that she really is a healthy and happy baby! Over the next few weeks, her main goal is to put on extra fat and remain cozy in my womb while we both wait for the stars to align and alas...can meet each other!

Here's to the BEST mile marker yet!

It's time...but not really.

Isn't it? I mean, I just really wish I knew. I've been such a grump ball this last week driven by pure, immature impatience.

I left my doctor's appointment on Tuesday so irritated. I swear, it's like I expect her to say "oh honey, you're actually in labor" and then cut to the next scene when I am holding my sweet baby in my arms! Hmmm, only in the movies you think? ;)

Since I know that's not the reality, I do find comfort in the fact that there are only 3 weeks left of this madness!...(assuming I don't go late...I will deal with that obstable when and IF it comes).

In hindsight, I am so glad last week's hospital visits occured because it was nice to have a "practice" run and a little more comfort in the hospital atmosphere while not facing the real deal! It kicked Chris and I both into gear (even though we've been ready for the last month or so) and we found ourselves both nesting until 1am on Sunday! It gave us a good laugh when we both stopped and looked at each other like "what the heck are we doing?!". I was giving away about half my wardrobe while Chris was organizing his office and re-wiring our internet. Why wouldn't ya?? She better hurry up and make her appearance or I will be out of clothes and finding a new room in the house to paint/redecorate!

It was also a good experience because Chris has been so excited ever since! Comments like...."come on Avery!!!" melt my heart. Of course, he's been incredible with the installation of last minute "gadgets" and is definitely doing his part to make sure her home is perfect by the time she arrives! Wait till she gets to meet Daisy and Wally...wow, she has it made! ;)

Morrison Baby Shower hosted by the BriGabel's!

Just a random shot of their GORGEOUS home! Trust me when I say...this does NOT give justice to their incredible house!




I remember pretty clearly that I barely got out the words "I am pregnant" before Andrew was booking a classic BRIGABEL party! No complaints from me of course...Chris, Jen, Andrew and myself aren't so great at hiding our excitement when given the chance to hang out with the Gabel's! It's usually us finding a reason to celebrate in order to feel confident about "getting them on the books"! Hmmm, I may be giving away all our secrets ;)

Needless to say, January 7th has been on the books for almost 6 months now and it was hard to believe the day had finally arrived! Also sad that one of my concerns while in the hospital was that we may miss the BriGabel party! So so sad :)

It's been a little less than a year since we hosted the Brigham Baby Shower at our house for baby Molls! But now it was our turn and this time, I was the sober driver :) We picked up the Brigham's and headed over to the Gabel mansion. Literally. We had such a wonderful evening visiting and eating a DELICIOUS enchilada dinner! Hands down, it was the best black bean enchilada I have ever had! What wonderful company and truly, I think it was a blessing that we had a time limit because otherwise, we never would have left! :) We even took a quick field trip within the neighborhood to see the new Brigham casa and wow, what a wonderful house! We had so much fun touring their new house that it didn't take long to get the next BriGabel party on the books...a housewarming party of course! Sounds like a good enough excuse to me!

The BriGabel's spoiled us with an adorable baby cake and a VERY generous gift card to Buy Buy Baby! We still cannot get over that. Jen....TOO MUCH! I bet you all can imagine where I am headed today ;)

I probably say this often but we are so blessed with the people that God has placed in our lives. I feel so grateful to constantly be surrounded by people that are genuinely GOOD people and always striving to be better. To do the right things in life and to make a difference. You can't help but be inspired.

Early in my pregnancy I remember thinking how excited I would be at the BriGabel Baby Shower for us because I WOULD BE SO CLOSE to meeting my little baby girl. And guess what...I AM!!!!!! I am so very excited!...

Thank you again to the amazing Brigham and Gabel Family! We love you guys!

Hello Kitty!

Perhaps I can't give justice to the humor of this story but I sure want to try!

It is not uncommon for me to email Chris ideas on what I'd like for Christmas up to 2 months in advance!

Well hey, I am trying to make his job easier :)

But since he knows me well and how often I change my mind, he didn't ask for my final list until a couple weeks before Christmas. Good thing because I had since come up with a few new ideas. One of which being a Sewing Machine! I mean, why not? It's something I have always wanted to learn and after watching Debbie's amazing creations and getting sewing advice/encouragement from Jackie O, it seemed like the perfect 2011 goal! Jackie was kind enough to research many different "beginnger" sewing machines for me and share her opinion on what to buy. She sent me an incredibly informative email on all her research but the day I read it, I only skimmed the first few sentences as I was in a rush and wanted to quickly cut and paste the link and send on to Chris. Big mistake because when her opening line read "Here are some options but I definitely think this one is the best!". I had no choice but to: Select. Copy. Paste.

I should note that I thought it a little odd to be a Hello Kitty Sewing Machine but as a sewing novice, who was I to question her suggestion? And if you know Jackie, she is good at EVERYTHING she does so I never doubted her opinion.

And as we all seemed to agree, IT GOT REALLY GOOD REVIEWS!

Come Christmas, I really didn't think Chris would choose the sewing machine but sure enough, there it was! My very first Sewing Machine...and it was Hello Kitty! Chris mentioned that he almost didn't get it because it was Hello Kitty but again, it got really good reviews soooo????

Amongst my excitement, I sent Jackie a picture and it wasn't until the next morning when she zoomed in and realized which one I actually got!

Yes, folks. IT WAS A JOKE! Had I really read the email thoroughly, I would have noticed her next line that said she was of course kidding and that all the links below were her real suggestions!

We laughed so hard we nearly cried. THE ULTIMATE PREGNANCY BRAIN MOMENT.

Chris too, found this incredibly humorous and while in between laughs, we both couldn't help but keep saying...."but it got really good reviews!"

To think, me and countless 10 year olds around the country each got their very own Hello Kitty Sewing Machine this Christmas!

Sadly, she will be returned for a more "grown-up" model. ;)

What a week...but no baby yet!

Talk about an unexpected week of confusing emotions! Well, emotions only a woman would understand, right Dad? ;)

After experiencing progressive pelvic pain over the last few weeks, it got so bad by Tuesday night, Chris and Jamie convinced me to call the doctor Wednesday morning just to make sure it was normal to be so excessively painful (not walking by evenings). I left a voicemail with my doctor feeling so silly because I SOOO don't want to be that high-maintenance patient! I have gone 8 months without calling in about anything, why start now? haha...

My doc soon called me back and wanted me to go into the hospital. Huh? For pelvic pain? Now I really felt stupid but after calling them to MAKE SURE that was necessary, they instructed me to go!

It was the first time I had ever been a patient at a hospital! Craziness. For what Chris and I thought would be some quick, routine checks, we soon learned by 3pm that I was having real labor contractions and going into preterm labor. Whhhaaaat? My contractions were 2 minutes apart and per the doctor's instructions, they gave me a shot of turbutaline to stop them. No luck so another shot I got! This shot helped a little but after another hour of contractions, they decided to let me go home because my dilation was only slightly increasing. Also, at almost 36 weeks they felt I was enough in the safe zone that they weren't going to try and stop labor should it progress further. I was instructed to come back should the contractions get any stronger because they couldn't really get any closer together ;)

They eased up by late night and I have been good since! We left the hospital with the nurse telling us to pack our bags just in case and when Chris asked if she thought I would make it to February 4th, she responded "No...I think she's definitely going early!".

It was music to our ears and exciting for just an evening because by Thursday, going early still doesn't seem to be the reality. Meaning, I have heard that story enough, especially from Jordan, who has had to hear it for the last 16 weeks only to go to her actual due date! Point is, anything could happen and labor is only truly going to start when it does.

Do you see how I am trying to re-train my brain into finding patience for another 4 weeks?

I actually had to go back to the hospital yesterday for a non-stress test on baby which they forgot to do Wednesday. Baby looks great and she is still up high! I left the hospital yesterday which a much different feel than the day before. A feeling that I really needed to shift my mindset back to what it's been this whoooole time....a preparation for a 40 week minimum pregnancy. I get what women mean about the last month being the longest...every day feels like it could be the day! I guess we just have to leave that up to Avery!...stay tuned!...

And just to be funny, AS THEY ALWAYS ARE, Jim and Ash decided to set up a "surgery labor station" just in case I deliver in the office! Wow, I work with such thoughtful guys! ;) And yes, the stapler is in case I need a c-section. God help us. ;)

Luminaries on the Wheel!

Yet another tradition on The Wheel and easily one of my favorites!

December 23rd marks the day for Luminary construction, which is not possible without TEAM EFFORT! The assembly line gears up around 3pm and somehow manages to pump out hundreds of luminaries within a couple hours!

After a little dinner break, everyone met up again for hot coco and s'mores! Too much fun!

Christmas!

Wow, I really am this late on my Christmas post.

Better. Late. Than. Never.

Christmas was wonderful and as always, it's great spending time with family for such a meaningful occasion. As we have now tried hard to do, Chris and I did our best to limit the number of "stops" we make on Christmas Day. It doesn't come without sacrifice because if we had it our way, we would be able to see EVERYONE at one place! Chris and I went to a wonderful Christmas Eve lunch with my mom, Jamie and Jereme at Lisa's restaurant! It was delicious and a highlight of our Christmas celebration :)

As you can see from the pictures below, we had quite a few gifts to divuldge into at my family's house Christmas morning! And what better event to follow gift opening than a delicious meal!?! Yum! We spent our afternoon and evening at Chris' dad's and stepmom's for a mexcian fiesta. What an incredible idea!

Chris and I exchanged gifts at night this year since our morning was so packed! As usual, Chris spoiled me with 2 watches and a sewing machine! (ahh, and a very funny story to go along with the sewing machine...maybe even a blog post?) It was the last time Chris and I exchanged gifts as a married couple with no children...hmmm, do you think next year is going to be a little different?? ;)