Mean Green Juice Recipe!

Aloha! Some of you have asked for this recipe, so I thought it would be best to dedicate a blog post for the almighty "Mean Green Juice"  that our family loves.

This is where I originally got my recipe, and changed it up to what works for us!

handful spinach
2-3 stalks of kale
2-3 granny smith apples (any apples, really)
small handful parsley
1/2 lemon*
1-2 cucumbers
*A few quick/personal notes:

1. Start by using half a lemon and do a taste test once you juice it all and stir.  The first time Rob and I did this with a whole lemon, it made our mouths water. It was very tart.  (and I typically like sour)

2. Peel(I use a potato peeler) or slice off lemon rind leaving some of the white pith

3. To juice small leaves such as parsley/spinach, roll them up into a ball to compact the leaves. I like to follow it up with some apple or cucumber(more water content) so it doesn't get stuck and pushes through easier. Brilliant right? ;)

4. I like to add green grapes or kiwi (if I have them) to make it sweeter OR if I am low on apples

Since I juice for all 3 of us, I actually have doubled this recipe and it makes about 24-30 oz (depending on how big the cucumbers and apples are)

Currently we are using pears instead of apples, and it definitely isn't as sweet.  I recommend adding 1-2 kiwis to balance out the flavor.

Why I love juicing?

So many reasons! 

1. Of course, it's super healthy for you.  This is a guaranteed way for us to make sure we are meeting our fruit/veggie count.

2. Energy boost, with no crash. No "Red Bull", "Rock Star", or "5 Hour Energy" in our house. Don't even need that afternoon coffee break. All we need is some nourishment and hydration from our vitamin-enriched Mean Green Juice!

3. Great "snack".  We eat 5-6 smaller meals throughout the day and are all about portion control.  This is a great "snack time" replacement.  After Breakfast/Before Lunch (Rob's fave)  or After lunch/Before Dinner (aka when Lex starts to get restless and is dreaming about Reese's Peanut Butter Cups or Cookies'n'Cream ice cream)  It's filling and quite refreshing!

Just to be clear, this is not a "meal replacement" of any sort.  If you want to drink this alongside one of your main meals, that's great too! Trade in that sugary-loaded Diet Coke for a glass of this amazing-ness.

The juicer that we use is the Jack LaLanne Juicer that we bought from Costco a few years back. They still sell it there for $90!  Such a great invesment, and Costco has the best warranty/return policy.  If you plan to juice for a few days, try to use a glass container to keep the juice longer.  It's true that it's best to drink it right after making it, but let's be real. Ain't nobody got time for dat!  I juice enough for 2 days, and juice every other day.  I hit the jackpot and found this awesome glass jug on Amazon and bought 2!  Amazon Prime is my weakness, haha.

Please let me know if you think of any other juicing questions, and let me know what you think if you decide to try it.  Our little Sofie is obsessed and always asks for it after nap time, " Joo Joo Joo" and chugs it. No joke. She is our mini health nut.

Until next time,

Lex

"Giving birth should be your greatest achievement not your greatest fear." ~Jane Weideman

This quote could not have come across my computer at a more opportune time.  Ever since I made the bold decision to prepare myself for natural birth, I have been making some changes to get ready!  Recommended to me by my OB, I bought a book called "Hypnobirthing: The Mongan Method" by Marie F. Mongan (foreword by Lorne R. Campbell).  I really like it so far, and the quote in my title is very fitting.  One of the first questions I get asked about being pregnant is "Are you scared/nervous?!"  I automatically widen my eyes and say "Well, hell yeah!"  Now I can honestly say "Nope, not really.  I'm excited!"  It may sound crazy to some, but with some knowledge and confidence, I know I can do what my body was created to do.  Conceiving a child is a miracle.  Creating an embryo and having that slowly evolve into a fetus and into a tiny little baby; is a miracle.  The fact that your body knows it needs to create an entire organ (the placenta) for the purpose of nourishing this little baby: is a miracle.  Your body knowing when it's time for said baby to enter the world by preparing your body: water breaking, contractions, dilation, etc: is a freaking miracle.  So why is giving birth any different? It's the final miracle that will bring a child into the world. It shouldn't be any scarier than watching your belly grow.  It should be fascinating and exciting!

Anyway, as you can tell, I'm pretty passionate about this.  Don't worry, I have not let my hair turn into dreads, exchanged my OB for a hippy midwife(they get a bad wrap) and a bathtub, and I'm not going to cloth diaper! The tree outside my house is too hot to hug, thanks a lot AZ summer heat.  I'm sticking with my awesome OB and feel safe knowing I'll be in a hospital.  I will be signing off to receive an epidural/medication, if deemed medically necessary. I am not ignorant to the reality of giving birth and it not going as planned.  All that I am 100% sure of, is that I will be doing what I can to achieve a goal I have set for myself.  Like Tony Horton says "Do your best. Forget the rest".  Gotta love it.

Time for some belly stats:
How far along: 29 weeks 5 days
Baby is the size of a: butternut squash (2.5 lbs/15 inches) **this is according to my baby app. Per my ultrasound: she weighs 3lbs 7 oz and is measuring a week ahead.

Total weight gain: 32 lbs, still. i guess my body packed it on and now I'm in hibernation? haha, who knows!
Maternity clothes: yesss. and i think i wanna buy one more skirt from Nordstrom Rack. they are SO comfy.
Stretch marks? belly is free and clear still
Sleep: Pretty good still. I had a dream the tips of my fingers were blue because the "tissue died" haha, whaaaa? my dang arms & hands keep falling asleep. boo
Best moment this week: Hands down, one of the best moments of this pregnancy was the ultrasound that I posted about. I have her "thumbs up" pic on my phone and just love her sweet face!
Miss Anything? I really missed going for a long/hard run to blow off some steam. and the usual: sleeping on belly, having more energy, moving faster than a slug, etc. haha
Movement: Yes, and i love it! I think she really knows when her daddy is near. she will be still, and when he puts his hand on my belly and talks to her she starts to move.
Food cravings: this is random, but thousand island dressing! salads have paved their way back into my eating regimen. hehe. oh and chocolate + pb candies (but, that's what i normally love) mmm reeses and pb m&m's
Anything making you queasy or sick: ginger, of course
Gender: Girl
Labor Signs: Nope
Symptoms: same ol: back aches, fatigue, the burps, and arms/hands falling asleep.
Wedding rings on or off? off.
Happy or Moody most of the time: Happy! A little moody, but it's what I signed up for..
Looking forward to: Childbirth Education classes with Rob tomorrow, bring it! Baby shower and staycation next month, woo hoo!


Ok, so instead of making a new post or trying to figure out the widgets on this blog (i'm feeling particularly lazy at the moment) I wanted to share one of my favorite juices. Rob and I have consistently juiced everyday since we got back from vaycay. (there i go; easily impressed with myself...hehe). It's a  Mean Green Juice
 Ingredients:
handful spinach
3 stalks of kale
2 golden delicious apples (any apples, really)
small handful parsley
1 lemon*
1 cucumber
*A few quick/personal notes: 1. Start by using half a lemon and do a taste test once you juice it all and stir.  The first time Rob and I did this with a whole lemon, it made our mouths water. It was very tart.  (and if you know me, I love anything sour. Sour patch kids, sour skittles, sour punch straws; you name it. I've been known to eat lemons with salt. just like that.)
2. Peel or slice off lemon rind leaving some of the white pith
3. To juice small leaves such as parsley/cilantro, roll them up into a ball to compact the leaves. I also do this with spinach.
4. I like to add green grapes
What I love about juicing is trying new things.  Lately I have been mixing it up and it tastes delish, but looks pretty gnarly. Oh well. That happens a lot with my cooking/baking. All that matters is how it tastes! I will work on my presentation later.

Speaking of, I better go make our juices for tomorrow before this laziness consumes me.  TGIF and to all the sales peeps out there: best of luck on your end-of-the-month push.  Go team, go!

Besos,

Lex

18 months aka 1 Year & a half ;) and some Baby mama Lex stats

Oh nap time, how I love thee! Time to give a MAJORLY overdue Sofia update.  Little love had her 18 month well check yesterday and she had 1 last shot. Boy, was she pissed.  She got over it 5 minutes later and said "Oh wow!"  This is her new thing.  We bought her a Step2 Sand & Water Table from Costco, and she has been obsessed with it and started to say "Oh, wow!"  I wonder what she will say when we actually put sand & water in it and let her play in the backyard, hehe.

 

 

Thanks for setting it up, Daddy!

Here are some stats/new Sofie-isms

Age: 18 months/1 year and a half :)

Stats: 24 lbs 2 oz & 32.68 in tall. Blue eyes & Golden brown hair with some natural highlights

Teeth:12 goin on 14, 2 very stubborn bottom teeth

Favorite Foods: Mean Green Juice, all day! String cheese, mostly all fruit, not big on veggies, but loves the "Baby food pouches" with Kale, Pear, Apple, & Mango

Favorite Word:Uh oh! Also says mama, dada, hello, "oh wow", signs "more" and makes sounds/signs for Elephant, Doggy, Tiger, & Monkey. Says "cheese!" to indicate smiling, haha. Lotsa gibberish too.

Favorite Toys: Non-toys, of course! Sand & Water table, baby stroller and baby, magnets, any type of ball or music maker.

Favorite Activities: Going to the park (yay slide!), playing outside, Little Gym, bath time, running everywhere, reading books, playing at the gym child care, singing to "Frozen" & "Tangled" and ticklefest with daddy.
Other Favorites: Clapping, doing moves to Itsy Bitsy Spider, Wheels on the Bus, and twirling to Hokey Pokey, Daniel Tiger's Neighborhood, Pixar movies, and Mickey Mouse Clubhouse! Playing peek-a-boo with her blanky. Playing with Riley. Climbing on everything. Being spun around and thrown in the air.  Our child is a daredevil!
What's new? Mostly covered it.  In general, talking more and understanding what we communicate to her.  She is starting to be more affectionate, and Rob and I could literally melt.  Hugging our necks and giving "kisses" at bed time. Having a more solid schedule, until those teeth come around! Started her in Little Gym a few months ago and her balance and climbing skills are getting good! She loves to do a "front roll" somersault. 

My, do our babies grow so fast, here is a quick pic for a comparison:

3 days old versus 18 months old, le sigh

Oh and how could I forget?  No more bottle or binky! I really lucked out with having such an independent child.  Just like with nursing, I slowly weaned her off the bottle first.  The binky was a little harder, especially when she was getting 4 teeth at once!  Well, only 2 that actually broke all the way through.  I stood my ground and just kept her as comfortable as possible,with lotsa mama TLC. Over all, it was easier than I anticipated. 

Other than that, we have been a bunch of busy bees. We have a pretty consistent routine of gym time in the a.m., Little Gym/Library/play dates or errands after and 1 solid nap during mid-day, which is when I catch up on work emails and housewife/mama duties. Sofie has had a few sleepovers at Papa/Gamber's and that has been a real treat.  It was hard the first time, and I'm pretty sure I packed everything she owns...haha. #FTMprobs

Here are some pictures of what we have been up to:

Her fave slide @ Roadrunner Park

Going to the park is her FAVE!

Cousin day with Karlie.  Don't mind us, just singing Frozen... :D

We also managed to go to the Zoo a few times, and now that summer is here, I can't wait to get some splash pad action!

With some of our Little Gym peeps: Ezekiel, Vinny, & Emma

Mean muggers: Sofie, Lily, & Addi

"Look Ma, a giraffe!"

And of course, play dates galore.  This child is like the energizer bunny, I swear it.

BFF time with Lily! Finally got a pic where both are looking and happy.

Kids Club @ San Tan

Play date with our new friend, Emma.  They are a month a part.  Who is who on the top right??

"Baby Brain" class @ Basha Library

Climbing UP the slide, ay yi yi

Being silly together is what we do

"Little Gym" with these adorable "birds"

Some people ask me what I "do" when I stay home.  All of the above and then more.  Being cooped up at home with a very active toddler will make anyone go a little loco.  I absolutely love taking her to new places and meeting new friends. So blessed that I can do that with her at this age.  I wouldn't trade it for the world!

Here are some other randoms:

She likes when mama paints her toes; such a girly girl sometimes!

Matching toes!

"Daddy, can I drive the truck?"

Us every morning, going to our spot: Mountainside Fitness.

Watching *more* Frozen and eating yogurt.

So yeah, I think I've brought us up to speed on the last 4 months.  Rob and I have truly been immersed in our healthy lifestyle with prepping meals, more trips to Sprouts for fresh produce, and making time to exercise.  I'm happy to say that it's paid off for both of us.  This is something I have been passionate about and it has been humbling to "get back to" my pre-baby body.

I gotta be honest, I don't know how accurate that statement is.  Though I "lost" all the weight, it definitely didn't go back the same.  This isn't a bad thing, it just means that it was distributed differently and every person has a unique body/metabolism.  Anyway,  I want to share my progress finally.  Though I was a little unsure about sharing the "before" pic....I remember getting pumped up and motivated by seeing other moms (or anyone who made the decision to get healthy & fit) posting before/after pics.

No more tankini tan, please! Haha

For me, it was all about the journey.  It had it's ups & downs.  Sometimes I would think about how "unfair"  it was when I saw moms that looked like they have never given birth and sport a 2 piece bikini without giving it a thought, while playing with their newborn.  But, the truth is that every body is different. That skinny mini can't help that she has a thinner frame and fast metabolism, just like I can't help that I am 5'4 with a "booty". I got it from my mama ;)

  I accept my body for what it is and work with what it. Those last 7-10 lbs took me the longest to shed, man oh man.  For those of you asking what I have been doing, it actually comes down to incorporating weight training with high intensity cardio.  I find that it's what works best for me. I model my weight training after the Jaime Eason 12 week trainer.

I actually started the program last year, and only made through the end of Phase 2. I can probably tell you a few excuses on why I slowly fell off that band wagon, but it doesn't really matter.  I hopped back on the horse and I did what works for me and my schedule.  For cardio, I tend to do interval training on the treadmill (hate the treadmill). Jog at a good pace, 1 min sprints here and there.  Just enough to get my heart rate down and then back up.  The heart is the most important muscle you have, and you can train it just like you can train your triceps!  I love the Tabata class at my gym, but mostly do T25 or Turbo Fire at home to blitz through some cardio. Sometimes I will do some Power Yoga at the gym. And maybe one day I will take a spin class (idk why I am such a weenie with that)

Oh, and of course, healthy eating.  Rob and I loosely follow the "80/20" rule.  Eat clean 80% of the time, and not-so-healthy the other 20%.  This means a "cheat meal" here or there.  Indulging in dessert when the opportunity presents itself (ummm, Billy Miner Pie @ The Keg please!) and drinking a glass of red wine or a vodka press....or 2....  I think there is a misconception that we are super strict and don't enjoy food/drinks.  We have fun with the healthy foods we make and we switch things up when they get boring. Thank you "80/20 rule"!  Can you guess what our cheat meal is?  PIZZA

 

Anyway, I think that's a big enough bread crumb to drop on this journey.  Things we are looking forward to are:

1. Going to Rocky Point May 1-5 for much need R&R poolside/beachside

2. We are getting a pool! Should be done in 3 months with plenty of AZ Summer left

3. Easter, birthdays, Mother's Day, etc (hopefully I update before then?)

4. Livin' this blessed life

Ok that last one was cheesy.  But seriously, you only have one life; make it a happy, healthy one.

Until next time,

Lex

"Motivation is what gets you started. Habit is what keeps you going." ~Jim Ryun

Absolutely love this quote, because it is so true!

I'm finally getting a moment to sit down and share some of my tips and tricks for staying motivated in keeping with my healthy lifestyle. *Of course I am not certified, by any means.  Just something I'm passionate about* But, as mentioned in my previous post, I've had a few friends ask me to share such knowledge(Who me? I feel so special! hehe) I was a little scatterbrained with answering the question, which is why I want to write it--err type it out.

So far, I have determined that it all comes down to habits.  I found this awesome quote on Pinterest, of course, and it's brilliant!

It may feel like you are sacrificing and giving up a lot when you decide to go on a diet, lose weight, get in shape, etc.  Really though, perception is everything.  Try to create new habits into your daily routine, and soon enough the bad habits will be dropped like, well, a bad habit!  It doesn't have to be balls to walls, you can start small.  If you skip breakfast (which is common), start eating breakfast!  Maybe it's a banana or maybe it's eggs, turkey bacon and toast.  You make an attainable goal, and promise yourself you will stick to it for a week. That week will turn into a month, and soon enough it will just be a normal part of your day. Another example may be something as simple as weaning yourself off of soda.  If you drink 4 cans a day, go down to 3, and then 2, and yeah...you get the point.

Side note: If you are serious about changing your eating, you need to purge your fridge and pantry.  I know it can be wasteful, but you don't need that temptation.  Trust me!

Here are a few of my personal "habits"

1. Make smaller, attainable goals. When I start a new program, I make short-term goals.  For example: Let's hit the ground running for the 1st week, no excuses, instead of looking at the light at the end of the 3-month-tunnel.  Yes, I do enjoy programs that last 60-90 days.  But, I take it a week at a time.  Sometimes a day at a time, if I'm feeling less motivated.  "It's only 45 minutes out of my day, let's do this!" I sometimes need to trick/remind myself "You will feel better after, just press play/get in the car to go to the gym"

2. Find a buddy. or someone to hold you accountable.  Rob is that person for me, and vice a versa. And my friend Desiree is currently doing the same workout that I'm doing ( I copied her, hehe) and we check in with each other to see how it's goin.  Some people are motivated by having a die-hard work-out partner. This way, you really are held accountable, and don't wanna "bail" on meeting at the gym.  Buy a Groupon with a friend and attend a boot camp or crossfit (if you're a rock star) or some yoga.  There are always great deals, and once you buy it; you wanna get your money's worth.

3. Morning workout.  Yes, I'm "one of those".  Even before Sofie was born, I would wake up at the crack'a'dawn to work out.  Sometimes before the sun had even risen.  It's my favorite way to start the day, and frankly, I get lazier as the day progresses. So i like to get it over with.  Some people like to workout at night, and that's cool too.  Or go on your lunch break, whatev. Do what works for YOU.  Bottom line: create a routine and make it a habit.  Put it in your calendar as an appointment if you have to (or are OCD, Type A personality like yours truly; shameful but true!)

4. Plan/Prep.  Rob and I like to have a "mastermind" meeting to choose what we want for dinner for the week. Makes it easier to grocery shop, and takes the thinking out of it for you.  I don't spend my whole Sunday prepping a week full of meals, but some are religious about it and that's pretty awesome.  We prep a week full of a spinach breakfast casserole, which I shared a month or 2 ago.  Mornings are a little nuts around here, and I won't take 5 minutes to make myself breakfast.  I will, however, take 20 seconds to nuke a piece of this deliciousness in the microwave about 30 min before I hit the gym. You can easily prep lunches.  Like this super awesome Sweet Potato Quinoa Salad that is from Shaun T's new T25 workout. Seriously, so yummy. Oh, and I almost forgot...  I actually prep my workout gear. It's silly, but it's a mental thing. I pick out what I will be wearing the night before: Top, bottoms, sports bra, socks, and shoes.  Put it right on top of my dresser.  I've even heard of people sleeping in their workout gear so there is really no excuse!

5. Daily Juice & Protein Shake.  Part of my daily prep is making our favorite Mean Green Juice that I posted here..  Holy pregnant mama, batman!  Haha anyway, there are a lot of other recipes here.  If you gawk at the fact that you should be eating 5-7 servings of fruits & veggies on the daily, this is a great way to meet that requirement. Another part of my daily routine is to drink a protein shake (currently indulging in Shakeology, mmm chocolate) immediately after my workout.

My favorite protein shake:
1/2 C of frozen fruit
1 tsp ground flaxseed
1 scoop of Shakeology (or 1/2 of that with half of reg whey protein...trying to budget!)
1/2 banana (i share with Sofie!)
Water/Almond Milk-1-2 cups? not sure the exact amount, I add as I go to thin it out
Pinch of Cinnamon (optional)

6. Progress Pictures. Trust me, this has been horrifying for me. And maybe one day, when I reach my ultimate MILF status goal,  I may be ballsy enough to share.  But for now, they are for my eyes only (and Rob, because he takes them for me...and loves me regardless!)  Do not obsess over the scale (though, I succumb to that from time to time) because you should be building muscle along with trimming fat.  Plus, you lose inches before pounds.  Good rule of thumb.  Anyway, I take pictures to compare and see how my workout and eating habits have changed my body.  It's hard to notice from day to day.   But if you compare on weekly, or monthly basis, it is astonishing! I have gotten more compliments since doing my new workout routine, Jaimie Eason's 12 week Trainer and I have only lost 2-3 lbs.  I can see in pictures that my body is getting stronger & leaner.  No # on the scale can match that.

7. Cheat Meal! Saved the best for last, hehe. Throughout the week, we stick to 5 small meals a day that are balanced with healthy fats, simple carbs (yes, you need simple carbs for energy.) & protein. No booze (maybe an occasional glass of wine or happy hour margy) So, we look at this as a reward for sticking to our plan.  Mostly, I truly believe it keeps me sane.  I look forward to our cheat meal (yes meal, not day!) and it motivates me to eat better on all my other meals.  Maybe a Five Guys cheeseburger loaded up with goodies with some fries.  Don't forget about dessert (my fave!) Last weekend, we went on a date night to Grimaldi's for some delicious pizza and a few glasses of wine (or beer for Rob). We earned it!
 
It can take some time to transition into a healthier lifestyle and definitely won't happen overnight. It's easy to give up, so challenge yourself to make a goal and stick to it.  I promise, after a few weeks of eating healthier, you will feel better and will hardly miss 90% of the junk you used to eat.









 As far as what I consume, these are non-negotiable in my life:

1. Stay hydrated.  Water is your new best friend, drink up my friends! I try and drink at least 8-10 glasses of water a day (1 glass=8 oz).  I absolutely love my Camelbak water bottle!  I make sure to fill this puppy up at least 3 times (it holds 20 oz) Oh, and Sofie likes it too.

2. No Limit soda!  I gave up soda in HS and really haven't looked back.  Though, I do indulge in some Coke Zero from time to time. Or in a cocktail.  But, very rarely. And honestly, I only have 1, maybe 2 cups of coffee a day (love my Keurig!) You won't miss the extra caffeine once you feel the extra energy from regular exercise and a balanced diet.

3. No Limit booze! So important. I didn't realize how easy it was for Rob and I to drink often.  Out with friends, at home with dinner, at the baseball game, on vacation, while playing softball, celebrating {insert holiday, bday, whatever}, the list goes on.

4. No Limit fast food/processed food!  It's hard to resist getting a full-fledged meal in a matter of minutes and even harder to completely cut out processed food.  If you prepare and plan ahead; you don't need to make any rash decisions and go to Taco Bell.  Though I do go to Sprouts on a weekly basis for our fresh produce versus one big grocery trip, it is worth the 20 minute trip to avoid the nasty bloat feeling I get after eating nasty food.  

Ok, so I guess the above list isn't 100% non-negotioable since there is wiggle room. I really believe you can have everything, in moderation. IN MODERATION.  We live in a society that tends to over-indulge.  Don't let that be you.


Welp, I think I'm done droning on and on.  I hope this was helpful, at the very least it has been a reminder of what works for me.  Next time I'm feeling blah...I can now read this post.  Yay!

Tomorrow I start phase 2 of my workout and I'm a little intimidated, but stoked!  Kicking it up a notch and finally adding some cardio.  I have missed having a good cardio sesh, I crave that feeling I get after sweating it out and burning some major calories.  Why am I such a freak? haha

Of course I must end this post with my ultimate motivation.  To be the best version of myself and inspire my beautiful baby girl to want the same for herself.

Until we meet again,

Lex

♫With peace in my mind. I got peace in my heart. Got peace in my soul.♫

So, I'm pretty sure I spend just as much time thinking about the title of the blog as I do on actually writing the post. Haha! I'm not sure why, I just feel like it sets the mood...or something.  This week is a lyric from a song called "Living in the Moment" by Jason Mraz.  It's such a happy go lucky song with an awesome message. I'm a sucker for lyrics, it's true. I find that I always find an album that I listen to incessantly and it creates a special memory.  I've been pretty obsessed with Jason Mraz's most recent album called "Love is a four letter word".  I just know it will remind me of being pregnant, I'm just that predictable.

Anyway, I picked this particular part of the song because it helps me put things in perspective.  No matter what happens to you in this precious life, you need to find peace within yourself.  It's a lesson I've recently learned , or maybe I've just been given a refresher course on(probably the latter).  I guess what I ultimately want to say is: Everything happens for a reason.  As cliché as that can sound, I truly believe this.  You may not see the reason why for a long while, but in retrospect, it will make sense to you. one day.  As long as you have made peace with it (the situation) and yourself.

For me? It was accepting God's plan for Rob and I to start a family.  It has been a challenging and heartbreaking journey, but I now know that this is our time and this is how it was meant to be. 07/13/12 would have been our Angel Baby #1's birthday and I was overcome with emotion. Words can't express having feelings of grief and gratitude at the same time; it's surreal.  Maybe that's why I turn to music to help express myself. I'm emo like that.

On a less emo note, this week has been pretty great! Rob and I have been religiously juicing and we can both feel/see the difference.  3rd trimester fatigue is starting to set in, but I think it would be worse if I didn't start eating better and doing some exercise/yoga. We have been loving this new "mean green" juice I found online. I will hafta share the recipe (still trying to figure out this blog-thingy-majig). Ahhh, it feels good to be healthy.  Oh, and now that we watched the documentary "Food Matters" (thank you Jason & Bre for the recommendation & hook up), Rob and I are pretty gung-ho about getting back to being consistent with our health. We also watched "The Business of Being Born" and it really pumped us up about D-day.  It was really interesting and just confirmed my decision to do everything I possibly can to have a med-free birth. Yikes!
Last week we got our bedding from Stacie with Lil Lainey Bug and it all turned out soo cute!  The collage shows the custom window valance, matching bed skirt, fitted sheet, quilt, pillow cover, and burp cloth. Can't wait to have Sofie in there to complete the room! Hehe. Oh yeah! (sorry, pregnancy brain at it's finest) I had my glucose testing yesterday. My drink was fruit punch flavored and it just reminded me of really sweet Kool-Aid (my favorite...the blue packet! hahaha) It kind of gave me a little headache, but it was NBD(no big deal, i love acronyms).  After an hour, they took some blood and hopefully that's the last I hear about that! No call=normal results. Now that we are in the home stretch, I'll have OB appointments every 2 weeks. And soon it will be weekly, whoa! I love that I get to see my actual OB every other appointment.  A special shout-out to Christine for referring me to True Harmony. I love their office and feel 100% confident with Dr. Brass. It makes a huge difference, especially as a FTM (first time mom, keep up people!) I have an ultrasound scheduled for Friday to check on my placenta. It was lying a little low on my last ultrasound appointment (2 months ago).  Hopefully it's in a spot that is considered safe and normal. I'm not worried about it, since I try not to worry about things out of my control. Just keeping my fingers crossed!

Ok, time for a belly pic and continued update..
How far along: 28 weeks 4 days
Baby is the size of a: chinese cabbage (baby apps are funny) 14.8 in and 2.25 lbs!

Total weight gain: 32, still.
Maternity clothes: Yup, Rob bought me 2 new skirts. THE most comfy thing to wear, hallelujah
Stretch marks? none on my belly, my doc even noticed
Sleep: Sleeping pretty decent still. My hands keep falling asleep and I hafta switch sides often, haha
Best moment this week: Last week was getting all the custom bedding and goodies for Sofie's room. I'm so happy with how it all turned out! This week was getting to hear her little heart beating at my OB appointment. 156 BPM!
Miss Anything? Having more energy. I'm starting to get pretty tired these days
Movement: Yup! I think I confuse Rob when he hears me giggle in the middle of the night (one of her favorite times to play)
Food cravings: Still pizza. Really love my muscle milk. Apple Pie with caramel drizzle (mmm!) Ooh and seasoned potatoes.
Anything making you queasy or sick: Don't say the word ginger to me (barf!) Oooh, I was brave enough to eat Chipotle and it didn't make me sick. phew!
Gender: Girl
Labor Signs: Nope
Symptoms: Can't complain (too much, haha) Nothing new, just feeling overly tired all the time. Props to the women who deal with this when they have other children and/or a full-time job/school to attend to.
Wedding rings on or off? off.
Happy or Moody most of the time: This week was emotional for me. Angel Baby #1's bday. Lots of tears, but most were happy ones!
Looking forward to: Ultrasound on friday! We get to see our little love. I wonder how big she really is! And of course to make sure all is well. OH! And watching "The Dark Knight Rises" in iPic Theater on Saturday!!! boom

Mmk, it's time to get off my booty and be a good housewife.  Gonna be creative and make up a new juice, it shall be glorious!

Until next time. I'll see ya then, or I'll see ya on another time! (gotta love movie quotes)

Lex ♥

Comments:

Halloweenie & Pics Galore!

How is it already November? Seriously though, this whole year has flown by and the holiday season has crept up on me.  I know I'm a week late, but here are the highlights of what we have been up to and of course, HALLOWEEN pics!

Sofie loves to run around outside!

Realizing grass isn't so bad after all ;)

We were introduced to a free baby dance class by our friends Samantha & Addi.  Though it's 30 minutes of organized chaos, I think it will be great for Sofie once she is a little older and can follow instructions better.  For now, I love watching her run around like crazy nut and stare at her reflection in the mirror.  Plus, mama gets to have some adult interaction with some fellow mamas.  Yay!

Dance class with Addi & Lily!

Now that we are past the triple digit/high 90's..we get to go outside more.  Sofie absolutely LOVES her 4 in 1 trike that Papa & Gambers bought her for her birfday.  Isn't it the coolest?  We use it to check the mail and go to the playground near our house.

Fall-la-la-la-la time is the best!

Ok, time for some Halloween pics!  I really wanted to dress Sofie like "Boo" from Monster's Inc, as a little monster.  Mostly because it was her very first "favorite movie" and she has similar features.  But alas, I am still a novice crafter....and I don't really know how to sew. I use my hot glue gun and thats about it.  So I finally made a compromise to at least try and make something.

I was at Baby Town one day, and found a super adorable owl knitted hat.  I decided to build her costume around this adorable hat. 

Went on pinterest and this is what I made.

I already had a white long sleeved onesie lying around, so I went to Hobby Lobby and spent a few dollars on some felt sheets.  I hand drew the "feathers" and pretty much hot glued it all together and TaDa!  I also bought some knit fabric to make a no-sew cape, but ran out of time and decided to call it a day.  End of the month makes me feel like a single mother sometimes...makes me grateful for a great hubby & daddy to our little love the other 3-ish weeks of the month. Thankfully my SIL Amanda came to babysit so I could treat myself to a mani-pedi.  Thanks Auntie M!  Anyway, I put her in her birfday tutu, colorful pants, and shoes she already owns.  Now I really feel like a frugal mama.  I don't think I spent more than $20 and I can re-use all of it (less the onesie)

We had a pretty great Halloween.  Went to Michelle's so Rob's side of the fam could see our cute little owl, Rob made it home in time to trick-or-treat with us in our new neighborhood, and had dinner with most of my family to celebrate my Dad's birfday. 

Cousins Karlie, Kayce, & Hunter.  We bribed Sofie with a croissant roll! haha

Happy Birthday Dad!

Since I wasn't sure how well my half-assed owl onesie would hold up, I had to make sure Miss Sofie was festive during the day with this getup.

Obsessed with the yellow pumpkins

Cutest little Jack-O-Lantern ever!

Tried to be creative with some of the decor I had.

We also went to our first "Kids Club" @ San Tan Mall.  So thankful for fellow mamas, like Samantha, that share all their fun ideas! Though it consisted of me running after Miss OTG (on the go) as she ran a mock run all over the place, I'm happy to know about another neat thing to do with her when she is older. 

Addi & Sofie @ October's Kids Club

Rob decided to take a few days off once the "end of the month" craziness was over.  He has been working his booty off, so I'm glad he did.  We initially wanted to go up north, which turned into maybe a day trip? which turned into another "no agenda" go with the flow weekend.  It was nice until both him & Sofie got sick.  I can honestly say that Rob doesn't turn into a big baby when he is sick (like most men *apparently* do)  So, I knew it was bad.  He got food poisoning from our brunch date to BLD. Yuck! Poor guy was in the fetal position for hours on end, and Sofie was also not feeling well from her tummy.  Needless to say, we were quarantined and I almost wanted to get myself a mask to ensure I escaped the sickness.  Thankfully, I think I'm in the clear and both of my sickies are on the mend. Back to the fun stuff; had a mini "date night" and enjoyed wine and burgers with some friends, did a little shopping at the Phoenix Outlets, went to Freestone park for a "Be Healthy Gilbert" festival, and of course, gave the new house some TLC and hung up play room shelves & decor.  Caught up on some movies & How I Met Your Mother (love that show!), and I guess pretty much vegged out. 

Cousin Karlie & Sofie hangin out at San Tan Mall

San Tan Mall outdoor play area fun!

Freestone Park!

My whole world

Daddy came to dance class with us

Little Miss Sickie

Both my sickies watching "Tangled"

So happy both my sickies are feeling better.  Rob probably should have taken another sick day, but that's near impossible when you are in sales.  He is pretty determined to earn his spot for the President's Club trip and make some major mula. He is a go-getter!  ;)

Playground fun

Still not sure about keeping sunglasses on, haha.

And just because I love damask and this black/white/red combo:

I'm sure I've mentioned this, but Little Miss is starting to get picky about what she eats/drinks.  She basically loves her milk aaaaand the "Mean Green" juice that I make for Rob & I. It's so funny!

 I have tried to give her orange or apple juice, alone or diluted, and she just drops her sippy cup and gives me a "you're-kidding-right?" look. She is a girl that knows what she wants.  Oh, and pedialyte was not an option either.  But, daddy's orange Gatorade was acceptable (for 1 day, haha)  It's just so funny to see her reaction to certain things, she is so dramatic! It makes me laugh (and throw my hands up).

Ok, back to the photo-explosion.  We also had a play date with Paulina and Baby E while they were in town.  Seriously, so cute!  Kinda made me baby crazy for a nano second, then I realized I can barely keep my life together with my little energizer bunny.

Sofia & Elijah!

"Hey ma, remember when I was small enough to play here?!"

PS It's time to child proof our cabinets, yikes!

Here is the last pic I shall leave you with.  What's sweeter than a sleeping baby? Can't think of anything, to be honest ;)  Look at those cheeks!

On a personal note, training at my new job is going well.  Can't wait to get my own groove so I can get back to my usual "Type-A OCD" routine.  What is wrong with me?! Hahaha


Much love!

Lex