The Announcement has been Made!

   The announcement has been made! In 2012 we will be welcoming another member to our family! I can't tell you how excited I am, and how good God has been to me and my family! Our decision to have another baby, was not made lightly. We went back and forth several times. Chris and I talked, talked and talked about everything you can think that would impact having another baby. At times, we were certain the time was right, then sometimes, we felt we should wait longer. So, we waited, and waited some more. I had baby fever like none other, babies were coming into the world all around me, but I wanted to be sure I wanted a baby for me, and for my family and that the time was right, not just because everyone else was having babies. It was tough to tell myself no, but I did, and I'm glad for it too. Finally in August, we decided it was time to begin the journey to having a baby. I was ecstatic. The doctor told us it usually takes couples 8 months to get pregnant. It was hard to swallow that tidbit of info, but I am impatient. I just started praying. I just asked that when the time was right, that God would bless us with a baby, and that it would be His will for our life. At this time, our family and most of our friends didn't know we were trying for a baby. I did mention it to some of my prayer warrior friends, to get some prayers going to for us. It was hard keeping a secret. People kept asking and telling us we needed another one, and all we could say, was not yet. We were trying to patiently wait on God. Even though, we had made the decision, Chris still wasn't completely sure about it. Then, about two weeks before we found we were pregnant, he told me he was ready to have a baby. I can't tell you how it felt to hear those words come from him. I cried... I loved. At that moment, we both new the time was right, and now were just waiting on God. 

    Finally, after getting nauseous every evening at the same time, and just being completed exhausted, we found out on Monday Nov. 21 that we were expecting our second baby. I was completely surprised, because I sure didn't think I was pregnant...despite the symptoms I was feeling. I hadn't given up on getting pregnant, but I had decided to not let it take over my every thought, so I was surprised! Chris and I were super happy, and we couldn't wait to share the news. Of course, I texted a couple of my closet friends to share the news, but we had decided to wait until Christmas. Well, by Wednesday, we couldn't wait any longer, and revealed out news to Chris's family, and the church. On Thursday after telling my parents, we announced to the world of Facebook. Waiting on God's timing, makes everything right. Our preference is a boy, but as long as it's God's will and the baby is happy and healthy, we don't care. We are so in love with this new baby, and it's not very big at all. :) Now my prayers are still for God's will, and that we will have a great pregnancy along with a great labor and delivery day.  So far things are going well, I get nauseous after eating, but so far, we're good on the morning sickness. Thankfully my sleeping has returned and I'm only craving popcorn. I have been thirstier than ever, so hydrating on water has become my thing, but I am loving every minute of it! 

     The goal of my blog now, is to continue to give my two cents on everything, but to also document how we're doing with the pregnancy, how we're adjusting and how Maddison is doing with the big sister thing. Right now, she doesn't really understand, but it's still early, and we're telling her, she's going to be a big sister. She will tell you that the baby is in mommy's tummy, and it's the sweetest thing. I can't wait til the day my children meet each other for the first time. I know Maddison it going to love her sibling like there's no tomorrow, and I know she's going to be a big help. She's a wonderful little girl and I think a baby brother or sister is just what she needs! 

      I am loving life and everything that goes with it. I really should be working on my Christmas decorations...because, you can't see my floor because of everything I have, but there's so much stuff, that I'm a little overwhelmed and have no idea where to begin. It will be a job I tackle after I put Maddion down for the night. Please continue to pray for us, as we open a new chapter to our lives, and I be sure to pray for you too. :) (As a little side note, we've decided to not reveal the name/names we have picked out for the baby, until we know the sex, and are for sure what we want to name him/her. Not sure when we'll tell, but I'll be sure everyone knows. We are open to suggestions though. :) 

      Have a wonderful night, and Gooo Gators! :)

Sorry for the Delay

    It has been a long, long time since I have blogged. Mostly, just because I haven't taken the time to sit down and do it. I don't know why either, I really enjoy blogging. So, here we are, one day away from Thanksgiving. I cannot believe that Nov 2011 is almost over. This year has just flown by. Things are so fast paced, and time just doesn't stop. I'm glad that I've taken the time to enjoy Maddison at a young age, enjoy my family, and the things that are most important. Soon, everything will be changing and I will miss every day that I've had to be at home with Maddison and the one on one time that we've had. She's a special little girl, who grows and learns something new each day. It's crazy to think, she's not a baby anymore, she's a little girl. She's full of personality, stubborn and persistent, but very smart, and willing to do most anything. She loves her family, loves going to church, and is always a very happy person. I'm anxious to see the young lady that she is going to become, but I'm not rushing it, and I'm enjoying every minute of the stubbornness, the potty training, and all the oatmeal she loves to eat. I'm telling you, she can brighten anyone's day, and put a smile on every face. I love her, and wouldn't trade her for the world! :)
      With Thanksgiving tomorrow, and Christmas right around the corner, this is my favorite time of the year. I'm definitely loving it this year, because it has been exceptionally warm! I do not, I mean do not like the cold weather, so I'm perfectly happy! Everyone says, it just doesn't feel like Thanksgiving, or I wish it was colder....no thank you, I can eat just as much on a warm day as I can on a freezing cold day. Maddison can still play outside without freezing, I can open the windows, I'm wearing shorts and flip flops...and I'm loving it! :) I'm super excited about Christmas, it's on Sunday this year, which means we'll have church, but what better way to celebrate Christmas, than going to church? Maddison is at the age, she's going to love it too! She loves church, so church and presents on the same day, is going to make her a very happy little girl. I just wish things weren't so materialistic nowadays. I'm trying hard to show Maddison, that the gift of family, and the love that we feel is the all that we need, that gifts are not a necessity, and that you have to live within your means. For us, that means not a lot. Sometimes I feel bad, and I try to make stretch every penny make sure everyone has something, but Chris always reminds me, it's not about the gifts it's what you can do, and if just inviting everyone over, and having lunch is all you can do, then so be it. We're trying to fill stockings for everyone this year...it's not going so well, but we have a back up plan, and our parents and grandparents have been sure to tell us, not to worry about them. Although, they will get a little something. :) I heard someone say, if you are stressed over the gifts you bought, or the debt you put yourself in to buy the gifts, then you can't really enjoy the time with your family. Sometimes, just a little homemade gift makes all the difference. For me personally, I want you to take the time to make me a hand made card, or ornament for my tree, something that is going to last me a long time. And really, I can't remember half of what I got for Christmas last year, and I know I've already given away some of things Maddison received. Sometimes, the gifts are overwhelming and you just get too much. Just remember, if you can't afford it, then don't. If someone gets mad because you showed up without a gift for them, shame of them. If you come to my house, I'm just glad you're there, and I promise not to be mad. Lol. Just go back to the basics, and enjoy what you have with the family you have with or without gifts. :) Christmas is so much more than gifts, and the true meaning of Christmas is what we should be focused on. Those of you with little children, if you teach them now that they get everything they want, they will always expect it, if you teach them they get what you can buy on your budget with what you have, they will be happy to get it. Remind them also, that there are some children who won't get anything.
     Anyways, I'm done with my little rant....I have to remind myself of that all the time as well. :) Things are going pretty well in the Crews household. Things are tough at times, and I tend to worry a little, but I know that God will supply all of our needs, and He has yet to let me down! I'm supposed to be cleaning, and getting the house ready for Christmas decorations, but I know there's more time to get it done. We've been facing a few decisions lately, and sometimes we feel like our heads are spinning, but we'll make it, and God will show us what we need to do. The rest of this year is going to be great, and I'm looking forward to closing out 2011 and opening 2012. I'm looking forward to some wonderful blessings, and I'm ready to see what is in store for us.

I hope you have a very wonderful and Happy Thanksgiving. be very thankful for all you have, enjoy the family time, and eat lots of good food! :) 
   

Quiet Time

Whew, I am tired. It's been a busy, but good day. I am a bit frustrated though. I'm tired of companies and/or people dragging their feet and thinking they can take all the time they want. As a paying customer, I expect them to do everything they can to make me happy and make sure that everything is done they way it should be. As a customer, I will be sure to let others know about the company. I would think they would want me to say good things, to recommend people to them, and to let others know how satisfied I was. Ugh! We bought a dryer almost two weeks, and have yet to use it because there is something wrong with it. Finally after a week of continually being told that the tech would be here, he finally showed up. Then told us that in a day or so the company would call and we will probably be getting a different dryer. I'm sorry, but a day or two is not going to cut it. I want a dryer now. I have clothes to wash, I paid money for something that and I want to be able to use it. Unfortunately, there's nothing I can do about it tonight, but in the morning, I'll be on the phone with the Nationawide Appliance, and I'm going to tell them, if they cannot get me a dryer by Saturday morning, I want my money back and I'm going somewhere else. I'm not going to wait another two weeks for something I should have gotten last week. So, I think I'm through venting for the moment.
   Anyways, among the many things I have picked up lately, I decided to try my hand at cake decorating again. The cake came out ok, definitely not my favorite, and I can definitely improve a lot, but it's not the worst. Now, all you Gator Haters, don't think I've switched teams, I'm still a true Gator fan, but I was making this cake for a special person, and to make her truly happy...I had to what she asked. :)

     The Spear, looks nothing like I wanted it to, but that's ok, it will get better. The "F" is also not my favorite, but I'm getting there. This is the first time I've used a lot of icing to decorate, and for the most part, it looks good. Some spots look awful, but of course, more practice will make it better. Now I have to figure out what to do with this thing, but my husband isn't going to let it stay in the house for too long. It took all I could do for to convince him to let me make it. Haha.
      Well, I guess I'm off to enjoy some quiet time. I've got to print the music for tomorrow's Alumni Game and I'm going to finish watching Greys. I might clip and organize my coupons and crochet some, but I'm mainly going to be lazy and rest. It's so nice when both Maddison and Chris are sleeping. I love our time together and I cherish every moment, but once in a while, it's nice to have some quiet time. I hope you call have a good night. :)

Today is going to be a crazy busy today filled with lots of cleaning, and ending with a photo session. I have been neglecting my house lately, and it's showing badly.  It doesn't help that I have all this craft and seasonal stuff every where! I have to get it organized, because it is driving me crazy. There is stuff EVERYWHERE! Blah. Anyways, besides cleaning, I have to get everything together for our pictures, make sure Maddison has a nap so she's not grumpy, send Chris out to Camp Blanding to get my shirt for pictures....(don't know why we haven't already done this....), bake a cake, and hopefully make some Scentsy Samples. Like I said, crazy busy day. So, really I shouldn't be here on the computer, but here I sit. I'm sure I'll get it all done, I always do.  I'm sure excited about out pictures though. It's been about a year since we've had our pictures done, and it's definitely time. We've found a great photographer, who is a wonderful person, and her pictures and prices are awesome. We're taking the chance to get some family photo's done with Chris in his uniform. I've always wanted to get them done, but just haven't had the chance. I am so anxious...we haven't even taken the pictures yet, but I can't wait to see the end result.
    I do have to say, I am a little..well a lot frustrated with the place where we bought our dryer. I've the thing a week and haven't used it yet. Don't know what the issue is, but we called last Wednesday and told the lady what was going on and that we need the tech to come out. She said ok, he'll be there Friday. Well, the tech didn't show up. Chris called again yesterday, the guy said he's not sure what happened or why the tech didn't show up, but he set it up so the tech would show up today. I get up this morning and have a voicemail saying the van for the tech is broke down, and he won't be able to get out here until Thursday! Ugh...it's very frustrating. I really need to wash clothes, and it would be nice to use the dryer that we just bought. I sure hope they show up on Thursday, because I will not be a happy person if they don't.

On to a lighter note, I have become a crafty person...thanks to Pinterest. Which, if you aren't on the site, you really should be. It's great. They have everything. Anyways, I am in the process of making a ribbon wreath. So far it's looking good...I  ran out of ribbon, so I have to go buy some more so I can finish it up. I tried the canvas and glue thing, but it didn't turn out that great. I'm going to try it again and see if I can make it better. I'm going to get a sewing machine or have mom fix mine so maybe I can make some pillow case dresses, and such. I'm still crocheting, I'm actually working on a scarf and beanie set, that is really pretty, but it's taking me forever to get it done. Lol. I really want to learn to crochet some different things, I have lot's of yarn, just have to find the time to learn. I'm really looking forward to making some more wreaths as well. I like being creative, it just takes me a while to get there.
Well, I guess I need to get started on this house. We're still praying for a few things, and thanking God for what we have. I am a very blessed person. A wonderful family, great friends and much much more. :)

I'm a Slacker.

    I've totally been slacking on my blog post. One, because things have been crazy, and two, I just haven't taken the time out to do it. Anyways, lots has been going on around here. Thankfully, Maddison is almost fully over her ear infections. It's awful watching her hurt and be miserable. I hate it when she's sick. Nothing makes her feel better, she can't exactly tell me what's wrong and she isn't able to get comfortable. It all started with a runny nose, and then just got worse. Thankfully, the doctor was able to see her right away and we were able to her started on some antibiotics before it got too bad. I'm proud of her though. She's been in a fairly good mood through it all and has taken her medicine really well. We've went from having to use a syringe to her drinking it out of the medicine cup all on her own. I just can't believe how much she has grown. She's definitely an independent little girl, and stubborn as ever, but she makes me proud.  I'm glad the infections are just about gone and she's back to being my happy little girl full of smiles.
   I said I would blog about my weight loss in my next blog...but really there's nothing to say. I'm kind of holding out at the 10lbs down mark. It's kind of depressing, but I know it's my fault. I've not been as disciplined about what I"m eating, and I haven't been active at all.  I don't want to make excuses, but I haven't been sleeping well. Which could possibly be a side effect of the medicine. Thankfully, I slept well last night and have committed to getting my house back in shape and doing Zumba on the Wii or the Wii fit. Just something to get me active for a little bit. I'm going to start getting back to my healthy eating as well. I'm kind of limited on what I can eat right now, so I got bored right away with everything that I was eating...and water...it's kind of boring too. Thank goodness there's a little thing called Crystal Light. I'm determined though to get this weight off. I've lost ten pounds, I can do this!
      Things are going wonderful in our life though, things could be better, and it's been a little crazy, but Chris and I are definitely blessed. Sometimes our marriage is hard, and we argue, and just can't seem to find an even ground, but lately things have been good. I'm kind of bummed that it's drill weekend, because that means he's gone before we get up, and usually doesn't get home until around 7. And then, Sunday, he'll go to drill, come home sleep, and get up to be at work at midnight. It's stressful and tiring, but I'm thankful he's working, and I'm thankful he's a Soldier. He makes me proud, and when he comes in at 8 am Tuesday, he doesn't have to leave again until Thursday at 11:30. :) That makes for plenty of time for us to be together. I'm still praying that God will send another job his way, or least allow a shift change to open up. I think God is teaching me patience. I'm not a patient person at all, but I'm learning to be one. I'm learning to just let go, let God, and trust his timing. It's not always easy, but I know as my God, He is doing things that are going to work out the best for me.
      It's that time again! Cool weather, hoodies and jeans, hot chocolate, fires and s'mores, lots of candy and good food, family time, presents and all things wonderful! I'm not a fan of the cold...at all. I despise it, but I love all that it brings with it. Chris and I are on the ball this year! We've already bought Christmas gifts! I have three gifts for Chris, I have stocking stuffers for most of the family, and we've bought most of Maddison's gifts already. Well, it's on layaway, but we have it. :) It feels so good to be ahead of the game, and to have things already done. There's still quite a bit to get, but I don't feel so rushed to get it all done. My issue will be keeping it all together until Christmas! Lol. Some people think I'm crazy for already getting things, but that's ok, one day, they will learn....maybe. I'm super excited about the things we've picked for Maddison and I cannot wait til we can give them to her. I can't believe it's her third Christmas. Time is flying by and I'm trying to enjoy every single minute of it.
       Well, I guess I better get off here, and get cleaning, I have a lot to do before Chris gets home and before the baby shower tonight. I completely forgot about it, so I have to get all my cleaning done while Maddison naps so that way when she gets up, we can run to the store get the gift and then make home to see Chris for minute (hopefully) and then head to the shower. I hope you all have a wonderful day. Remember to let go and let God, because He will see your through it.

A Little Thing Called Love.

I'm not sure where to start. I guess I'll start with my anniversary....it's been three years! We've made it three years! In my generation and in this day and time, and for my age group, a marriage lasting three years is something to celebrate! When I made my commitment to Chris, I made it forever. I see marriage as a sacred thing, and it's to be taking seriously and with children especially important for two people to work on things and try their absolute best to make it work. Many people don't view marriage that way anymore, and sad how high divorce rates are. Now, I'm not in everyone's relationships, I don't know what goes on, or how things are, but I can tell you, things haven't been that easy for us. We started out young, with a baby on the way, we were renting from my parents, and all we owned was what was in our bedrooms from high school. A lot of that is still the same, but we're in a much better place. :) We went through a deployment. And, if you've never been through one, I'm telling you, that is a test in itself. The stress of the situation is indescribable. Emotions run high, you never know what's going, you feel helpless, and it's rough. But, we made. We struggled with no jobs, and no income with baby. We went through a PT test...and let me tell ya, that stupid test caused SO many arguments between, it was awful. We've never argued over something as much as we did that PT test. And of course, we've been through just the regular every day rifts that any and every couple faces. In the last three years, there's been many tears, a few goodbyes, lots of love, lots of laughter, lots of smile and lots of kisses. When things get rough, when I feel like giving up, I give it to God, and then I think back to when I first met Chris. I remember how I felt being around him, how he made me his world, and I remember ALL the reasons why I fell in love with him in the first place. He's still that person. He's still that person that made me feel on top of the world. He has changed of course, he's matured in ways, and sees things differently, but he's still Chris, the good looking Solider that drives a charger that sweep me off my feet and never put me down. I can't speak for him, but he still makes me beautiful, he makes me feel important, and when things just aren't going my way, he's there telling me it's going to ok. I know without a doubt he loves me. I can be hard to live with, I can be grouchy and irritable and frustrating, and yet he's still here loving me like he always has. No, things haven't always been easy, and at some points we've only had each other, but it's worth.
     Now, I haven't been married that long, and I'm sure you can find someone who can give you some better advice on a happy marriage, but this is what I've learned so far. When it comes to your spouse, tell them every day that you love them. Let them know that they are wonderful, show that they are wonderful. Husbands, be sure to tell your wife she's beautiful. It may not seem like much, but just hearing that, even if we disagree, makes a world of difference. Be sure to let her know that you appreciate what she does as well. When she accomplishes something, tell her your proud of her. The same thing goes for you wives, tell your husbands he looking good every now and then. Tell him thank you for going to work to provide for you. When he takes you to dinner, a simple "thank you" will do. Be sure, to take time for just the two of you. You need that time. It makes a huge difference. Some times it's not always easy. Finances may not be right, you have children's schedules you have to work around, but you need to make time for it. Even if it's just a movie night at home with all your favorite junk foods, and some sparkling grape juice. Do it, trust me, you'll love the time together. Most importantly though, keep God in the center of your relationship. Keep Him first. Without God, I'll tell you, we wouldn't be where we are. Sister Dean always says, when he does something that makes me mad, I just give it to God, because God can get him better than I ever could. I love that saying. It's one that has stuck with me, and I try always to calm down, pray about the situation and talk about when emotions aren't so high and after we've both had an opportunity to think it over. God can make anything happen and if you just let him take control of your relationship, everything will work out. It still won't be easy, but it will be a lot better! Then when you do have an argument, make up quickly. Even if that means you have to swallow your pride and say your sorry. It's not about who's right or wrong, it's about making compromises. And life is WAY too short to angry all the time.
   All in all, I just try to make Chris happy, and he does the same for me. Sometimes we don't always meet in the middle, but over the last three years we've overcome every obstacle that has come our way, and now we're celebrating it, and for the next year, I'm going to strive to love a little deeper and try a little hard to make Chris that happiest he can be. Sometimes I can't control, but I'm going to give me all at what I can control. He's my love, and there's nothing I wouldn't do for him. I love you, Baby.


    As a little side note, I want to thank both of our parents for setting wonderful examples for us. I watched my parents go through hard times, and I still do, but through it all, they never quit loving each other. My mom taught me how to take care of my husband, how to clean the house, and cook, and how even when he makes me mad, to stand by his side, and to sometimes just over look things. My dad showed me how a man is supposed to treat a woman. He loves my mom like no other. Now for my in laws, I haven't always been there, but I see where they were three years ago, where they are now, and what they're going through. They love each other just the same as well, and being married to Chris, I know he learned a lot about being a good husband from his daddy. His momma showed him how a mom should mother her children and love her husband. Next year, both of our parents will be celebrating 25 years, and I'm so proud and happy for both of them.

I didn't think finding a Hotel would be so Difficult!

Oh my goodness, I did not know trying to find a hotel would be so difficult! Lol. With our anniversary get away coming up quick, we were looking at hotels...we've been looking at them for a couple weeks now, and just decided tonight on where we would stay...we leave Sunday! And, of course, this decision didn't come easy. We talked, debated, and picked through a ton of hotels. We want something nice, because it's our anniversary, but it has to be within our budget...UGH! Finally we agreed to stay at the Holiday Inn Resort, The Castle. It's a beautiful place with great service, and we've stayed there before. Their rooms are unbelievable and with a pool and a jacuzzi, you can't go wrong. Now, I can't wait for Sunday to get here! Church and then we're off to Orlando! .....I still have to pack. I am the procrastination  queen. It's ridiculous. I know that I shouldn't wait til the last minute, that every time I do I end up stressing and forgetting something. :/ I guess I just have to make a list, check and it twice and deal without whatever is left behind.
   Even though I beyond excited about getting away, I'm going to miss my baby girl! She'll be with her Mare-ma, and Little, and I know she'll be well taken care of, but I still miss her. I pray that maybe this time she will sleep a little better. I don't know why, but she just has issues sleeping at other places. The only other place she sleeps good at is my moms. I think it's because we lived there, and she sleeps in the same room she always has when she stays. It's the only thing that I can think of. When we go on trips, we REALLY have to wear her out to get her to sleep. I'm going to try to make a little easier for Mare-ma, and I'm going to leave her my house key, so maybe if she doesn't sleep, they can stop by and both of them can catch a little nap. I know it's rough on both of them with no sleep, but I know they both love being with each other, sleeplessness and all. :)
    Well, I am falling asleep and I don't have much more to say, so I'm going to go watch rerun's of Friends and get some rest. Oh and by the way, I've lost four pounds! I'll blog more about my lifestyle change tomorrow.  Until next time, Goodnight...xoxox