The Luellens

Santa 2011

2011-12-15T09:47:00.001-08:00

Here are our Santa pictures for this year. Jessica is looking forward to Christmas. I think she will be into a bit more than last year. She just stares at the tree and has pulled some of the ornaments off. I just put some presents under the tree from family and she has been good so far. She did pick up one and when I told her that wasn't for her she put it back. I'm excited to see her on Christmas day! Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Happy 2012!

Walt Disney World 2011

2011-12-05T10:02:00.000-08:00

We got to go to Disney World with Grandpa Luellen! We had a great time visiting with him and seeing all the sights.
Kissing our little princess!
Jessica loved Mickey and Minnie!
Minnie is her new best friend!
Loved that Disney World was all decorated for Christmas! It truly was amazing! It even snowed for the Christmas shows and parades. This is just a brief view of our trip. Fun was had by all!

Cruise 2011 ~ Oasis of the Sea

2011-10-13T08:23:00.001-07:00

Our little island girl had a blast on the cruise.
Just a couple of highlights from our cruise! Parasailing! It was awesome! And the view amazing! One thing off my bucket list!
Our ship!
One of the beaches!
Our ship is on the left! It is HUGE! So much to see and do. I needed another week just to check out the ship more throughly.
Our beautiful cruise buddies!!! We had a blast with them! We were invited to go again in 7 years to celebrate one of the couples 50th wedding anniversary. I can't wait!

Coco

2011-09-10T21:22:00.001-07:00

We have lost our sweet Coco bug! Love you and will miss you! As you can tell she was a great dog that loved to be next to one of us.

Jessica's 1st Birthday!

2011-07-23T19:49:00.000-07:00

I will apologize this is totally out of order. I just wanted to get some of her birthday party pictures posted.Jessica in her birthday dress that I made! You can ooh and ah now! I know Christie sewing!!!
A picture of each month of Jessica. Newborn to 11 months!
Ladybug pretzels! My sister totally helped me out on these. So cute! Correction she wants all the credit for them!
This was the best game! The kids were having a blast! Picking out 50 buttons out of 7lbs of jelly beans. Jessica was just interested in just eating them!
Cake picture!!! The after!
The before picture!

Some of the decorations!
Before the party! Posing with her birthday banner!I love this picture! This kind of sums it all up! My moms yummy egg rolls and Jessica is really enjoying them! And her little oneies I made too! I know again ooh and ahs! I'm getting way too crafty! I had a blast preparing for her party! Sewing and making the banner and the other decoration. Box after box kept arriving at my sisters house. I will try to put up more pictures. We had a wonderful day! Family came down from Washington, my best friend and her family from Utah came, and other wonderful friends came that I haven't seen in a while. Love to my wonderful family and friends that helped celebrate and make Jessica's 1st birthday so memorable.

Sammy!

2011-07-15T20:37:00.001-07:00

In honor of the ten years Sammy was with us! We love you and will miss you!

First Easter Pictures!

2011-05-11T18:05:00.000-07:00

With a real live bunny!

When she gets excited!
She looks like she's trying to hide something!
Funny hat!

9 months

2011-04-29T12:10:00.000-07:00

Jessica is growing!

Height 30"in. 98%

Weight 17.8 lbs 24%

She can still wear 3-6 months clothes! Which is awesome! I am totally getting use out of all the wonderful things so many wonderful people gave us at our baby showers. Thank you again for all of those that love us so much!

Blog Slacker!

2011-04-14T10:37:00.000-07:00

I'm not really being a slacker! I'm just enjoying my sweet girl too much! Time sure has flown by! Lots to post and some started just not finished! We will get there! Someday! I'm already trying to plan her 1st birthday party! So many cute things!

Forks!

2011-02-15T08:35:00.000-08:00

So before leaving I had one request! Could we go to Forks! When I moved to Texas and people learned I was from Washington that was usually one of the first question had I ever been to Forks! Well I can now say that I have! Not really much to see there! The movies not even filmed there. We bought the token Twilight shirt that says Forks, Washington! Had to get one for Jess! Had a great time with family! I will have to find the picture of me in front of the Fork, WA sign.

Meers

2011-01-28T08:14:00.000-08:00

So there is a burger place that we were told we needed to check out. Meers (http://www.meersstore.com) I'll let you read the history but it's pretty cool!

The burger is huge! They make homemade ice cream and cobblers! Yummy! I'm not to sure this place is going to be so great for my waistline. I will explain the slab of meat so when you order a steak here they bring out the steak and you tell show them how big of piece you want and then you get to cut it. We will have to try this next time. They also have fried corn on the cob! Which way really good too! Bubba's Gas just the gas station you pass on the way to the restaurant. Just thought it was kind of funny!

Our move!

2011-01-28T07:53:00.000-08:00

So we are now in Lawton, Oklahoma! Here just a few of the pictures we have taken so far! Just to give you a little information about where we live. On the way coming and going to our house we pass a field full of cows! And behind our house is another field that has sheep in it and wind mills. It is so quiet! There is a lake about 5 minutes from our house. The wildlife refuge is about 10 minutes from our house. The sunsets are amazing! The last one is of our neighborhood at sunset. We try walking every night around the neighborhood. People are so friendly here. Our first Sunday at church the E.Q. president and his wife came over with a plate of cookies that night! Amazing can't say that ever happened in Lakewood. One of the Docs that use to be in Ft. Lewis ward dad lives in our ward so that is a fun connection. Enough about my new ward for now.

We live somewhat close to what they call mountains here. We call them hills!

6 Months

2011-01-25T10:30:00.000-08:00

Time sure is flying by! I'm starting to feel like I now longer have a baby! She is moving so much! She truly is our joy! Here are some of her 6 month photos!

Stats!

Weight 15 lbs 11 oz. 39%

Height 27 inches 87 % Thinking she might be tall!

On the move!

2011-01-11T07:45:00.000-08:00

She's rolls and now is crawling! This was more the beginning stages of it. She also does push ups! It makes me laugh! Love our girl!!!

Multnomah Falls 1-2-2011

2011-01-04T14:15:00.000-08:00

As Ralph travels to our new duty station in the car we are spending a couple of days with my family in Oregon. We always talk about going to the falls but haven't ever done it until this visit. It was super cold and windy but amazingly breath taking! Quite literally!

Little Musician!

2010-12-29T19:50:00.001-08:00

She has discovered the piano!!! With a little help of course!

5 months!

2010-12-25T22:46:00.000-08:00

She loves to grab her feet now. I didn't get one without her feet in the way! Of her first Christmas outfit! Still having so much fun with our bundle of joy!!!

Merry Christmas! 2010

2010-12-25T21:20:00.000-08:00

Every year for the past at least ten years Ralph has asked me what I want for Christmas. My reply has always been the same until this year because I finally have what I have wanted the most! A baby! I have a beautiful baby girl that I love very much! There isn't a day that goes by that I don't look at her and think of the miracle that she is and thank my Heavenly Father for blessing me far beyond I could ever image! I am extremely grateful! She truly is the best gift I could ever get!!! Love her and every minute and memory that we are making!

Look who's eating cereal?

2010-12-17T09:49:00.000-08:00

At first she wasn't to sure about it then it was like she couldn't get enough of it!

Who has a big girl? We do! Loving every moment!!!

Christmas Letter 2010

2010-12-15T23:41:00.000-08:00

Dear Friends and Family,

Another busy year has passed with many changes coming to our lives. First of all our beautiful daughter Jessica Lauren joined us this year on July 25^th. Christie was lucky to have a quick labor and after just over an hour at Madigan, we now have a wonderful girl who brings so much more joy to our lives.

Second Ralph finally finished school and graduated on December 10^th with a Masters Degree in Anesthesia Nursing and passed his boards exams just prior to graduation. Ralph has also been picked up for Major and we couldn’t be more proud of him and all his hard work and accomplishments. Our next bit of excitement is that we are now moving to Fort Sill, Oklahoma where we will begin our next adventure.

We are just overwhelmed with joy from being parents and learning about how much love we really have. Not a day goes by that we don’t just fall in love again with our little girl or fail to take a picture, or twenty, to help us remember the joys this year has brought. This has truly been a year of many blessings and unforgettable memories and we hope that our next new adventure will bring us many more. If you are ever interested in the most recent pictures please visit our blog at luellens.blogspot.com and if you are coming through Oklahoma, please give us a call so we can enjoy your company.

Wishing you all a joyous Holiday Season and a great 2011!!!

Love, Christie, Ralph and Jessica

Jessica and Santa 2010

2010-12-06T16:37:00.000-08:00

Love and Laughter!!!

2010-12-06T04:43:00.000-08:00

Love! Love! Love her!
Grandma making her laugh!

Purplicious Day!

2010-12-03T03:01:00.000-08:00

I love reading time! And my mom loves coordinating my outfits to story time. Not really but it just happened to work out today. I also love to stretch! This picture is a bit old but mom takes so many pictures and doesn't always have time to post all our fun activities we have together.

Thanksgiving Day! Month 4

2010-11-25T19:53:00.000-08:00

Happy Turkey Day! I enjoyed having family over to visit and to eat lots of yummy food!

Cutest Pumpkin in the Patch!

2010-11-04T22:32:00.000-07:00

Our Little Pumpkin!

Our good friends Adam and Melissa! And sweet Alexis!

Pumpkin Patch!

Petting Farm!

First trip to a pumpkin patch! We are having so much fun doing all the first things with our sweet little girl!

Sleeping through the night!!!

2010-11-01T17:22:00.000-07:00

After the advice of Martha and Frank we tried to see just how long she would sleep. Last night she went to bed at 9pm and didn't get up until 8:50 am. I am so excited about this! I thought she had to get up and eat during the night and that I needed to change her so she wouldn't get diaper rash. And I always worried that she would wake up while I was up during the night and then wake Ralph up. He works such crazy hours and sleep is very precious to him. I'm hoping with a little more sleep for me will make me a more efficient mom and maybe get more stuff done around the house. Not that I can resist napping especially on a rainy afternoon with my beautiful little angel. So maybe tomorrow more will get done around the house. ;)

Happy First Halloween!!!

2010-10-31T16:59:00.000-07:00

My very first Halloween! Grandma came up from Portland to go with me on my very first trick or treat outing. Not really sure what I thought about it! Since I don't really eat candy yet. People dressed in cool and sometimes scary costumes. Mom bypassed the scary ones so that I wouldn't get scared. It was a bit cold out and I was a little tired. I made it around for my first Trunk or Treat. Then mom and dad took me to visit with Frank and Martha! We love them so much! Mom and Dad tell me how wonderful they are and that they are a great source of advice and information. Good example they told mom to let me sleep through the night if I would. And to quit waking me up when mom gets up at night.
Halloween Day!
We went to church and then took a small nap so I could go visit a couple of mom and dad's friends. It was to show them just how cute I was in my Butterfly costume. Then we went to a couple of neighbors houses just so they could see me too and just how much I have grown. It was a fun weekend with all!
Mom has more pictures sometimes this is all she can get done in my short naps!

Grandpa's Birthday!!!

2010-10-29T21:43:00.001-07:00

Today was my Grandpa's birthday so in honor of him I wore my I <3 grandpa!!! We went to dinner with the family tonight and had a great time and yummy food. Well they all ate yummy food and I watched them. I can't wait to eat some steak!!! Mom will post more picture of me and g-pa later! Love you grandpa!!! Hope you had a great birthday!

World Class Traveler

2010-10-26T14:35:00.000-07:00

Jessica went on her first flight. She was such a trooper! I realized that I didn't fly on a plane until I was 19 and in college. She had a cute and cuddly friend to keep her company on the flight home. She is also hanging with dad! They are the best of friends! He always makes her smile and laugh! The two loves of my life! Many people commented that they didn't even know she was with us and that she was a good baby. The first of many many more adventures!

3 Months!

2010-10-25T14:29:00.000-07:00

We didn't take our usually picture since we were having these done. They were taken Oct. 25, 2010!

On the phone already!

2010-10-22T13:50:00.001-07:00

What am I going to do? She's already talking on the phone! That's not suppose to happen for a couple more years!

Roll over! Rolling keep on rolling!

2010-10-22T10:39:00.000-07:00

Jessica can now roll from her stomach to her back and is working on rolling from her back to her stomach! Loving all the milestones!

Holding her bottle already!

2010-10-21T16:04:00.000-07:00

Can't believe how the time is flying by! She held her bottle for the first time on our flight! 10/21/10

Too cute in my tutu!

2010-10-16T19:39:00.001-07:00

Mom learned how to make me tutus and hair bows! I'm so excited! I will have bows to match everything! Thanks to all the great Super Saturday teachers for teaching my mom these great skills!

One of my favorite photos!

2010-10-13T16:27:00.001-07:00

Daddy's little girl! I love that they are smiling at each other!

Bath time!

2010-10-13T16:15:00.000-07:00

She loves taking baths! She loves the water! Bring on the swimming lessons!

Dogs love her!

2010-10-13T16:13:00.000-07:00

Coco is always trying to creep up and be by her. It always scares me a little. But I couldn't resist this picture it's so cute!

42 Things that change when you have a baby!

2010-10-11T21:32:00.000-07:00

Forty-two things that change when you have a baby
by Rebecca Woolf
Last updated: June 2009

Some of my own comments too!

What changes when you have a baby? A better question may be: What doesn't change? Here, writer and mom Rebecca Woolf lists her most notable post-baby observations. Then scroll down to read our favorite comments from readers about how their babies changed their lives.

1. You finally stop to smell the roses, because your baby is in your arms.

2. Where you once believed you were fearless, you now find yourself afraid. [See a reader's perspective in #22, below.]

3. The sacrifices you thought you made to have a child no longer seem like sacrifices.

4. You respect your body ... finally.
( I would respect it more if it would shrink back down.) :(

5. You respect your parents and love them in a new way.

6. You find that your baby's pain feels much worse than your own.

7. You believe once again in the things you believed in as a child.

8. You lose touch with the people in your life whom you should have banished years ago.
(Well said!!!) Especially those with way too much DRAMA!

9. Your heart breaks much more easily.

10. You think of someone else 234,836,178,976 times a day.

11. Every day is a surprise.
(and priceless! Love every minute of it!)

12. Bodily functions are no longer repulsive. In fact, they please you. (Hooray for poop!)

13. You look at your baby in the mirror instead of yourself.
( I still look in the mirror and say I hope I don't run into anyone I know while I'm out. This is as good as it's going to get today!)

14. You become a morning person.
(Yuck!)

15. Your love becomes limitless, a superhuman power.

And from our readers...

1. "You discover how much there is to say about one tooth." — Ashley's mom

2. "You finally realize that true joy doesn't come from material wealth." — Anonymous
( SO true! It's the smallest smile or grabbing of a finger!)

3. "You now know where the sun comes from." — Charlotte

4. "You'd rather buy a plastic tricycle than those shoes that you've been dying to have." — Sophie's mom

5. "You realize that although sticky, lollipops have magical powers." — Roxanne

6. "You don't mind going to bed at 9 p.m. on Friday night." — Kellye
(AMEN to this one! I so wish!)

7. "Silence? What's that?" — Anonymous

8. "You realize that the 15 pounds you can't seem to get rid of are totally worth having." — Brenda
(So worth it but still wishing it would go away!)

9. "You discover an inner strength you never thought you had." — Ronin and Brookie's mom

10. "You no longer rely on a clock — your baby now sets your schedule." — Thomas' mom

11. "You give parents with a screaming child an 'I-know-the-feeling' look instead of a 'Can't-they-shut-him-up?' one." — Jaidyn's mom

12. "Your dog — who used to be your 'baby' — becomes just a dog." — Kara
[Many readers begged to differ, saying things like, " I disagree with number 12. My dogs are my additional children," "Nothing about previous babies, whether two- or four-legged, changes when a new miracle comes along," "My dog will never be 'just a dog," and "This is sad to me. My dog is still my baby too."]
13. "You take the time for one more hug and kiss even if it means you'll be late." — Tracey

14. "You learn that taking a shower is a luxury." — Jayden's mom
(Especially if it last longer than 5 minutes!)

15. "You realize that you can love a complete stranger." — Dezarae's mom

16. You find yourself wanting to make this world a better place. — Arizona

17. If you didn’t believe in love at first sight before, now you do! — Ciara

18. You start to appreciate Sesame Street for its intellectual contribution. — Anon.

19. You have to quit watching the news because you see every story from a mother's perspective and it breaks your heart. — Brooke&Boys

20. You just plain love life more - everything comes together and becomes better because of one tiny person and your love for them. — Anon.

21. You finally find out the real reason you have those breasts. — Anon.
(So I could feel like a cow. Poor cows!)

22. In response to #2 [above], I'd say that where you were once afraid, you're now fearless. I was always very timid and shy and let myself get walked all over … but now where my kid's concerned, I'll speak my mind and really connect with my inner "b"! — gummismom

23. The support you get from other people surprises you, because the people giving it are not always the ones you'd expect. —
(Don't I know this! Very sadden by this but in my time of need it came from the most unexpected places. So glad we have great neighbors and great people we have worked with they really made us feel loved. Especially when we have waited so long and gone through so much to get what we have.)

24. Nothing is just yours any longer. You share EVERYTHING! — DylanLsMom

25. No matter what you've accomplished in life, you look at your child and think, "I've done a GREAT job!" — Anon.

26. You want to take better care of yourself for your child. — Treasor

27. You can have the most wonderful conversation using only vowel sounds like "ahhh" and "oooo." — littlehulk2008

Out growing newborn size!

2010-10-05T23:08:00.000-07:00

Jessica is finally out growing her newborn clothes. If she weren't so long they would still fit. It is getting hard to snap oneies. She can still wear the pants and gowns. She can still wears a premie gown. It's amazing how fast they grow! I saw a newborn at the Doctor' s office the other day and I told Jessica I remember when you were that small. I sure love my girl!!! She is also now wearing size 1 diapers! She can still wear newborns but I ran out and don't want to buy another whole box.

Two Month Check-up and Stats

2010-10-02T03:56:00.000-07:00

Weight 9 lbs 13 oz (12%)
Height 21.89 (15%) I measured her the other day and she was taller than that. Oh well! She'll have an amazing growth spurt later when they figure it out.
Appointment was after this photo.

2010-10-01T00:13:00.000-07:00

Announcement I designed but haven't found a place that can print them exactly as it appears! So the closest thing I could find is ordered and should be in your mailbox in the next week or two.

More pictures of cousins!

2010-09-30T23:41:00.000-07:00

Anniversary #13!

2010-09-19T09:56:00.000-07:00

Ralph does an amazing job getting me flowers every year for our anniversary. I get a rose for every year! I was pretty excited last year to get a whole dozen. So what could possible make it better? The sweet pink 13th rose for our brand new baby girl!
Can you see it? Love you Ralph!!!

Look at how my girl has grown!

2010-09-13T18:00:00.000-07:00

I can't believe how fast and how much she has grown in just seven weeks! She is so alert and gets more fun everyday! She smiles and laughs! Just love her bunches! Angie came over and took lots of pictures of Jessica! Thanks Angie! Love them!

Blessing day!

2010-09-05T11:07:00.000-07:00

What a GREAT but crazy day! We got to bless our beautiful little girl! It was truly amazing I have waited years for this day! She was surrounded by great men that we love and respect a lot! Our branch President from our single days drove up from Oregon. The Missionary that baptized my family many many years ago happens to live in Washington was there. He also attended our wedding.
Our wonderful Stake President, Bishop Blackner, Ralph, Grandpa and James. And Ralph's crazy friend (twins separated at birth) Adam came from Ohio. My mom and sister and her family were there along with my great friend Linda. Bishop Bennett told me to have more kids just to boost our attendance in Sacrament meetings. I had the camera with me but failed to remember to get picture of all these wonderful people we love! Thanks you so much for sharing our wonderful day with us! As for the crazy part Ralph had to go to the hospital an hour before we were suppose to be at church. He cut his eye and went and had it looked at I was so scared he would miss everything. Lucky for him he works at the hospital and knows most of the doctors otherwise he wouldn't have been at the blessing or home for hours. He had a nice black eye for a couple of days. I told him he could just tell people I gave it to him! =)

Cousins!

2010-09-04T23:03:00.000-07:00

I got to meet my cousins! I was so excited I even smiled at mom as she was telling me about them.
They are so good to me and just wanted to love on me.
Love you Ethan and Lucas! Just wait til I get bigger then we can really play!

Mommy's girl!

2010-09-01T14:42:00.001-07:00

LOVE HER!!! I'm having so much fun with her!
I love capturing these little moments!

What's in a name?

2010-08-30T10:47:00.000-07:00

My sweet baby girl is named after my childhood best friend! I use to spend just about every weekend at her house with her and her family! I loved going to her house! She was one of nine children and it was so fun to have so many other kids to play with. We would often stay up most of the night talking with her big sister talking about boys! (Of course!) I would get in trouble when I got home because I would occasionally be sick after spending the weekend at her house. Total lack of sleep = a sick Christie !!! My mom would tell me I couldn't go if I was going to come home sick! When I think of my childhood I can't help but think of my special friend! I'm grateful for all the wonderful memories that I have of us! And though Facebook we have been able to stay connected and also many of her siblings too! As for her middle name it just sounded good! Really I have always thought Sophia Loren was a beautiful lady. And I love Ralph Lauren clothing! Not so much the clothes themselves but the initials on the clothes. They are the same as Ralph's! I even have sunglasses at say Ralph on them. Ralph and many friends think I'm so silly! I am so it's OK with me! We also followed a tradition that Ralph's parents started. Ralph and all his siblings middle names start with the letter "L". Ralph is RLL. Me ~ CLL so I fit right in! =) Now our sweet Jessica is JLL!

I'm looking for a picture of my friend Jessica and me as kids! Will post later.

Cousin Joey's Wedding

2010-08-27T15:46:00.000-07:00

Aunt Sandra and Uncle Joe and my cousins Michael, Joey, Brandon and Alyssa

Joey kissing his beautiful Alyssa!

Cousin Joey kissing me!

Dad and Cousin Joey and little ol' me! =)

My first wedding! I got to see my cousin Joey marry his beautiful wife Alyssa! We are so excited for them both and love Alyssa so much! She came and saw me in the hospital right after I was born along with cousin Joey! We wish them every happiness as they start their new life together! Love you both!

Grandpa!

2010-08-22T09:51:00.001-07:00

Grandpa came to see me at the hospital! Mom told me grandpa looked a little nervous about holding me. Grandpa replied the last time he held a newborn baby was when my daddy was born! He's a pro at it now! He comes to visit often and is much more comfortable hanging with me! Love you Grandpa!

Walking and Preggo Buddies!

2010-08-19T11:00:00.000-07:00

These are my walking and preggo buddies! I can't even remember now how it all started and when. There is five weeks difference between us all. Kami is 5 weeks behind me and then Melissa 10 weeks. It has been so fun to be able to share our experiences with each other. We would meet up just about everyday and walk usually 2 miles. Giving us lots of time to talk about our appointments, what we were experiencing, whats coming next, and just girl talk. It is amazing how fast the time went by I now have a baby and they are both very close. I can't wait to meet their sweet little babies! And then when we need help we look to our friend JeriLynn. She had her third baby just weeks before me and has tons of great advice!
Notice the matching shorts! =) We all showed up wearing them at Kami's shower. I know I just had a baby but they are really comfy! And I love them! And these great ladies!

Dr. appointment 8/18/10

2010-08-18T15:59:00.000-07:00

So Jessica had an appointment today! She now weighs 7 lbs 3 oz. YIPPIE! This is our third trip to the doctors they had been a bit concerned since she was little and wasn't gaining weight. That has all changed now! I'm so glad!

Ward Baby Shower!

2010-08-15T17:41:00.000-07:00

I went to my first party! It was in my honor! It was so fun! Lots of games! Lots of mom's awesome friends that came to see me and give me gifts! I know the party is suppose to happen before I came but I think this was the best. I got held by many people that my mom loves and adores! Mom's YW president (Leanne) and her daughter (Kira) that my mom use to babysit threw the shower. There was lots of yummy food and tons of games and prizes! One of mom's friend (Simone) from high school came up from Portland and her mom (Sis. Schilling) was the Stake YW pres. when my mom was growing up. Mom's pregnant walking girls club friends were there. (Melissa and Kami) Grandma was still visiting so she attended and Auntie Lisa drove up for the day to hang with us too! The Johnson girls were there and fighting who was going to get to babysit me! Dad's evil twin's family (Kellyn and Sis. Bennett) they're not evil just Adam! Thanks for making my first party so awesome! Mom will have to work really hard to top that party! I got wonderful gifts! One was a beautiful quilt sent from Sis. deMars who use to be in our ward. She sent mom a very cool bag just for her. And then mom's friend from her young single adult days (Cheryl) made me the coolest cover up ever! Thanks again for coming to meet me and love on me! I had the best time!

Week Three!

2010-08-15T17:36:00.000-07:00

Look what I can do! Today I went to church for the first time! Lots of people stopped by to say hello and tell me how cute I am! I am slowly getting bigger. Mom says I eat all the time! What can I say I'm a growing girl!

Deep thoughts!

2010-08-11T22:37:00.000-07:00

She looks like she's pondering something!
I just thought it was cute!

Napping with Granny!

2010-08-11T22:24:00.000-07:00

I love my grandma! She has been helping mom take great care of me! We will miss her when she leaves later this weekend. She keeps telling mom she's going to take me with her. My mom is putting up a really good fight! She tells grandma she has waited too long for me and worked too hard for me to let me go.

As for my other grandma she is AWESOME! We get surprise packages in the mail full of wonderful things just for me!
How did I get so lucky to have two loving grandma's? So willing to spoil me!!!

Week Two!

2010-08-08T17:29:00.000-07:00

Mom really another picture! Mom loves to take pictures of me! She takes some every day and sends them off to Grandma and Auntie Lisa and Sandra! Now if she misses a day they call and ask where the picture of the day is. Auntie Lisa says I could have my own fashion show because mom always has me dressed up.

First Week!

2010-08-01T17:25:00.000-07:00

I have been with mom and dad for a week now! They are slowly getting use to the way I like things done! =)

Due Date! What?

2010-07-30T19:24:00.000-07:00

Today was my official due date! Just in case you hadn't heard I had her 5 days ago! It has all been so blissful! Words cannot express the joy and happiness we are feeling!

Welcome Jessica Lauren!!!

2010-07-25T19:29:00.000-07:00

My beautiful baby girl was born today July 25, 2010! She was born at 1:37pm weighing in at a whopping 6 lbs. 5 oz. and measuring at 20 inches long. We have been so blessed!

Dr. Appointment 7/21/10

2010-07-21T16:40:00.000-07:00

Ok! Things are moving along! Dilated to a 2 and 50% effaced. Come on Baby girl!

We are waiting!!!

The Dr. and I joked I have an appointment for next week but she didn't think I would need one after that. I'm hoping I won't need the one next week! She told me to keep walking! I told her I might start running if it would help. =)

Weight and Length guesses!

2010-07-20T20:27:00.000-07:00

Mary Stoutner McGiffin

I say 19 in and 7.4 lbs. No matter how tall or small or big she will be as cute as a button!

Monday at 3:23pm · ·

Melissa Pace

I guess 20 1/2 inches and 7lbs 11oz.

Monday at 4:30pm · ·

Angela Stewart Pace

‎7 lbs. 7 oz. 19-1/2" :)

Monday at 4:41pm · ·

Amy Cox Colon

‎21 1/2 inches. 7.7 lbs

Monday at 5:07pm · ·

Kami Sheffer Wilson

I need to guess both! July 26, 2010 at 10:30 a.m. 20 inches. 7.5 pounds. Cute and ready to be held.

Monday at 5:22pm · ·

Amy Cox Colon

oops didn't read angela's i'll go 7.8 lbs.

Monday at 5:26pm · ·

Ramona Young Sutton

I will go on the smaller side and say, 6.11 lbs and 19.5"

Monday at 6:44pm · ·

Anna Smith Coley

I say 20" and 8 lbs. 3oz.

Monday at 7:35pm · ·

Carole Kapeliela

‎19" 8 lbs.

Monday at 8:06pm · ·

Linda Rae Davis

‎21 inches 7lbs 6ozs. Thats it!

Monday at 8:56pm · ·

Linda Katnic Brandfors

‎19" and 7lbs 9oz = )

Monday at 9:42pm · ·

Kira Brook

‎20" , 7 lbs 11 oz. so is there a prize for the closest? lol

Yesterday at 1:40am · ·

Lisa Tomlinson

You're not very big, so my guess is 20" and 6lbs, 13oz (That's what Hannah was, too!)

Yesterday at 12:23pm · ·

Melissa Gulley

‎7 lbs 3 oz 20" and I say this Saturday she will be born. :D

Yesterday at 4:42pm · ·

Date and Time guesses!

2010-07-20T20:24:00.000-07:00

Rebecca Hilliard

‎7/27!! Congrats!!

July 10 at 7:49pm · ·

Cassandra Mosley

‎7/28!!!! Congrats

July 10 at 7:51pm · ·

Marilyn Arbogast

I bet you have her on July 26th at 4AM.

July 10 at 7:51pm · ·

Mary Stoutner McGiffin

you are going to hate me but...Aug 2

July 10 at 8:02pm · ·

Kris Walker Rice

July 23rd @ 8 pm

July 10 at 8:13pm · ·

John Williams

Christie, she will be born on her birthday and not one second earlier. That is my guess.

July 10 at 8:14pm · · 1 person ·

Debbi Batnick DeMarce

July 26, around noon

July 10 at 8:29pm · ·

Wendee Reiter Bodnar

July 31 146pm

July 10 at 8:31pm · ·

Amy Cox Colon

‎3 august 2:30 am. Is someone gonna post photos asap? So it is a girl??? Got names???I wanna see a new belly pic and scan pics!!! Please please please oh please? Love you!!!! Miss you!!!

July 10 at 8:36pm · ·

Kristine Weilert Knox

I think that it will be July 29th at 3:30 pm

July 10 at 8:40pm · ·

Amy Cox Colon

My bad! You'd already posted new. I can't wait!!! So excited!

July 10 at 8:47pm · ·

Elena Pedrico Luellen

Kicking and screaming on July 30th!

July 10 at 8:47pm · ·

Athena Meisenheimer Macaulay

My babies were 2 weeks late...so I'm going to say August 10th. Don't you hate me right now?! :)

July 10 at 8:54pm · ·

Angela Stewart Pace

August 5th @ 10:41pm

July 10 at 9:06pm · ·

Stephanie Reed Walker

July 20th is a great day!

July 10 at 9:16pm · ·

Amanda Downing Coleman

I'm gonna say July 23 @ 4:56. I'm so excited for you!

July 10 at 9:16pm · ·

Emery Collier

Let's say July 31st! around 3:30PM. =)

July 10 at 9:45pm · ·

Sheldon Zimmerman

August 1, 2010 at around 13:53.

July 10 at 9:52pm · ·

Jerry Rice

july 29 @22:50

July 10 at 10:19pm · ·

Leanne Brook Leaman

August 5th @3am

July 10 at 10:57pm · ·

Kira Brook

August 2nd @ 6:20am

July 10 at 11:00pm · ·

Gregory J Geelan

‎8/2 10:15 pm

July 10 at 11:06pm · ·

Nikki Richter Rymer

August 4th at 3:30AM

July 10 at 11:08pm · ·

Carissa Hjelm Poyfair

I have to say 8/4 too and 12:51pm because my due date for Olivia was July 30th and that's when I ended up delivering her!

July 11 at 12:12am · ·

Kelley Juma

The day I work!!! WOOHOO

July 11 at 12:41am · · 1 person ·

Carole Kapeliela

Aug 1st, my mom's birthday.

July 11 at 1:04am · ·

Christopher Yerton

October.

July 11 at 4:55am · ·

Stacie Sutton-Freeman

‎7/25 3:30pm

July 11 at 5:27am · ·

Eileen DeMars

July 28th 4 a.m.

July 11 at 10:09am · ·

Dixie Bradley

August 3 1420

July 11 at 10:36am · ·

Linda Rae Davis

August 1st of course my birthday!

July 11 at 10:57am · ·

Holly Mirike Bennett

August 5th... 8:30 PM.

July 11 at 12:47pm · ·

Nicole Zimmerman

July 22nd

July 11 at 1:48pm · ·

Ralph Luellen

July 25th at 7 pm

July 12 at 7:06am · ·

Melissa Pace

July 31st @ 9:03AM

July 12 at 7:18am · ·

Lisa Cox Kratochvil

Aug 3 @ 8:43 am

July 12 at 10:20am · ·

Rachelle Tan Torralba

july 22 @ 5am =)

July 14 at 2:19pm · ·

Week 37! and 38!

2010-07-13T13:01:00.001-07:00

Well another week and things to do! More meals in the freezer, bed set up, clothes and blankets washed, and bags pack! Pedicure and massage scheduled! Just waiting for our sweet angel to grace us with her presences. Another Dr. appt. today to see how things are coming along.

Week 36!

2010-07-07T20:33:00.001-07:00

It's getting closer! Another appointment today! Things are looking good. The only scary thing was there was a lady checking in right before me and she didn't look so good. She looked liked she was in A LOT of pain! They (the nurses and doctors) rushed her upstairs where she should have gone. I thought she was going to have her baby in the lobby. Getting excited! and a bit scared too!

Pregnancy Gratitude!

2010-07-05T15:04:00.000-07:00

Just a couple of thing I am grateful for! Not in any sort of order!

1. I can still wear my wedding rings!

2. Didn't throw up but a hand full of times. Dry heave that's a different story!

3. My husband still thinks I'm beautiful!

4. Have many good and loving friends that have been so helpful and supportive! Love them!

5. Didn't have to buy a ton of maternity clothes. I can still wear lots of my own clothes. Ralph is grateful for this too! My sister and a friend gave me some of their maternity clothes! Which help too! Thanks!

6. I haven't had a lot of swelling! Thanks to the cold summer were are having thus far! =p

7. Whenever I complain that my back is aching Ralph will massage it for a bit!

8. Pregnancy mind! Sometimes it gets me out of things I would otherwise get in trouble for. I can't remember things!

9. Love watermelon! I eat one a week! Maybe that's why I look like one is growing inside my stomach. My mom always told me not to eat the seeds! ha ha!

10. The sheer miracle of it all! I am so blessed!!!

11. I love feeling my little girl inside me! I will miss that most!

I am thankful for so many things! I will try to remember to add them as I think of them! Remember pregnancy mind so cut me some slack if it doesn't get done!

Family Baby Shower!

2010-07-02T21:28:00.000-07:00

Baby Shower thrown by my sister! Family, friends, and lots and lots of good food and fun!

More pictures from baby shower!

2010-07-02T21:00:00.000-07:00

CUTE! Cute! Dress! Adorable little shoes! Presents!!! Drinking game winner!!!

Week 35!

2010-06-30T15:17:00.000-07:00

I got to see my sweet girl for the last time until she finally arrives in about a month give or take. I'm hoping for the whole month so I can continue to prepare for her arrival. Yesterday I cooked dinner and made 3x the amount so I could freeze some for an easy dinner for those crazy days that will follow her arrival. I filled out my pre-admission into the hospital today so they have all the paper work and I can just walk in and have a baby. (if it were truly that easy =) ) At the Doctors today they were just checking out my little or not so little bean anymore. I was really hoping for a 5-7 lb baby. I don't think that is going to happen. I'm at 35 weeks and 5 days and she weighs in at 5.8 already and there is still more time for her to get bigger. She is already head down. I'm so nervous and excited all at the same time. My doctor appointments are now weekly! Goal for this week to pack hospital bag.

34 weeks! 6 to go!

2010-06-18T16:50:00.000-07:00

Where has the time gone? I can hardly believe how fast the time has gone. It seems like yesterday I just found out that I was expecting and now baby is just around the corner. I really can't complain too much about pregnancy. The biggest things I have experienced is being tired not just the 1 and 3 trimester but all 3. I figure I'm just resting up for the marathon that is on the way!

30 week! Ultrasound

2010-05-24T18:55:00.000-07:00

So I had an ultrasound today to make sure my little angel is growing big and strong! Well I thought for sure that since I was having a girl she would probably be short. I know I'm tall but my mom is only 5'2 and Ralph mom's is 5'4. So I was kind of expecting a cute petite little girl. So in the measuring today her not so short legs were measured in the 97% range. Her feet don't look so small either. I'm just getting more and more excited to see her and hold her and just love her!

(I will post ultrasound pictures later!) Sorry =( I just didn't want to forget my thoughts which is happening! I don't know why! ;)

10 weeks left!

2010-05-20T16:19:00.000-07:00

I can hardly believe that I only have 10 weeks left. It seems as if I just found out about my little miracle. The third trimester has been ok so far. I have had struggles with my blood sugars being too high and then too low. So I will be tested again in a few weeks. Crossing my fingers it will all be ok the 3rd time around. That by far has to be the worst of it by far. Being kicked at all hours of the night is a happy reminder of the precious life growing inside of me. I lie in bed and usually smile at my very active little girl. I anxiously await her arrival! I can't wait to see who she will look like. Whose features she will have? I still have lots to do to prepare for her coming! Will I ever be ready? ;)

Vancouver BC Temple Open House

2010-05-06T07:58:00.000-07:00

We took a little holiday up to Canada. My friend called it a baby moon. I guess a little vacation before the baby comes. We had a great time! Eh! It just so happened that it worked out that the Vancouver Temple Open House was occurring as we were up there so we made a journey to see the Temple. It doesn't happen very often or very close always to where you live. There are just over a hundred of these Temples around the world. It was truly amazing! I love the peacefulness and the beauty of it.

Dessert!!!

2010-05-05T21:16:00.000-07:00

My mom and sisters family were in town this last weekend to celebrate my mom's birthday!

My little nephew Lucas enjoyed the dessert most! I just thought is was so cute!

Just one bite!
That's good!
Ok maybe two bites!!!
I'm not close enough to the food! I want more!!!
Finally! It's all mine!!!

I don't blame him it was pretty yummy dessert!

Hope you had a great birthday Mom! Love you tons!

Second Trimester

2010-04-29T10:06:00.000-07:00

Since I just discovered my woe's of first trimester I better write about the second since it will be over in the next week. I have felt much better the last couple of weeks. Some people are still having a hard time telling I'm pregnant! This is a shocker to me! But then again I see my body everyday and know what it once looked like. And how most of my clothes fit! I can also feel my little girl doing karate chops inside me at all hours of the night! So as far as sleep goes I am still tried since this little one likes to party at all hours! I love every moment and movement though and just lay in bed while she beats on her drums or something in there. And wonder what she will be like and look like. Oh and think of all the things I should try to get done before she comes. I have quit working to enjoy the last couple of months and try to get some of these things done. I need to start looking into birthing classes. It seems like time is just flying by and this little one will be here before you know it! Tomorrow I will be 27 weeks so only 13 weeks to go! So crazy! I have to do the much dreaded sugar test! The Dr. told me just not to eat a whole box of donuts or anything the night before too crazy. So I'm off to make these cookies I saw on my friends blog. Cheesecake cookies! How can a girl resist? ( This one can't) Oh well the test isn't until next week! I figure I should be safe!

Ok now we are in the second trimester!

2010-04-29T07:23:00.000-07:00

Feb. 25, 2010

First trimester was tough! All the sickness and just feeling yucky! Oh yeah and the many trips to the bathroom. I almost forgot! Not really since that hasn't really changed.

Second the queasiness is down to a minimum. Smells can sometimes still trigger it. And waiting too long to eat like right now. I'm going to get some toast!

Oh and raw meat! Icky! It has been somewhat of a challenge to cook at times. Ralph as been so good and will help when I need it. Let just say I can't go to the meat dept. and pick out meat just the sight of it grosses me out. Won't touch it either. My mom finds this funny and tells all of her friends.

It's still early in the second trimester but I am already having back pain. I can't sit for too long or stand too long. I go to bed with a hot pack on it at night. I have been to my trusted chiro and it's normal just your body adjusting to the changing of it. Center of gravity is different.

So far those are the differences. I still try to nap after school they have gotten shorter just still a nap. I don't feel as tried and dream of sleeping all day. Just a little update until the next appt. Week 18!

One I forgot to post! oops!

Registry!

2010-04-17T12:50:00.000-07:00

Oh my! I went to Babies R US yesterday! They have everything! and more! It was so much to take in. I didn't even register for everything just what I thought might be the essentials. Stroller, car seat, crib, and bassinet/pack & play. If you look at my list there is more on there but most of that was done in the comfort of my own home and with the help list of what they think you should have. I did look at swings but want to read up a bit more before I make a decision on that one. I found a rocking chair that I love! I wasn't sure I was going to get out of it. It was so comfy!!! I keep hinting to Ralph about that one!

A couple of days later I took Ralph to Babies R US and had him just look at the chairs to see if he could pick out the chair I wanted. He picked it first! How well does that man know me? All too well. He also thought my chair was comfy! So I'm thinking I might get lucky and get it! =) (at least I'm hoping) Then I showed him some of the stuff I had picked out. I forgot to mention that I had told Ralph all about my first visit and that I would probably need to do a second since there was way too much too see and try to pick out. He wanted to know if he got any say in helping picking things out. Hence the second trip! I tried explaining to him that true you know what you need but then there are 20 different options just in that 1 thing that you need. I have been trying to read up on them before I put them on our list. Pros and cons to all. So if you look at the list Ralph picked out the monitor a bit fancy and high tech. That's a guy for you! Maybe not the fancy part but definitely the high tech part. I rarely get a say in the gadgets that go into the home. Which is perfectly fine with me! Way to many choices. My sister is coming next weekend to help me even more! Thank goodness! I need it!

I love evenings most!

2010-04-07T10:02:00.000-07:00

I love when I lay down to get ready to go to sleep. It seems like my little one is just ready to get the party started! Her movements have become so strong I can now see my stomach move! It's weird and one of the most awesome things ever. Now I know how so many forget the bad things! It has been an amazing journey so far. I just can't wait to meet my sweet angel! The time seems to be flying by I still have so many things to do. One of the things I need help with is registering for what I REALLY need the must haves!!! I have looked at the list and am so confused to why I would need some of the stuff they suggest. So ALL things you loved and couldn't do without please let me know and maybe tell me why you loved it and how it came in handy. All suggestions are welcomed!!! I am at a totally lost when it comes to this! So thanks in advance for the ideas!

In loving memory of a fun and great guy!

2010-04-04T21:38:00.000-07:00

Ryan Elliot Parker

Ryan Elliot Parker, 35, of Monteview, passed away Tuesday, March 30, 2010.

He was born in Rexburg to Don and Pat Parker on Sept. 24, 1974. His family lived in Longmont and Grand Junction, Colo., before returning to Rexburg. He graduated from Madison High School. He was a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. He was an Eagle Scout. He served a mission in Maraciabo, Venezuela, from 1993 to 1995. He attended Ricks College, Brigham Young University in Provo, Utah, and graduated from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Mich., where he obtained a bachelor's degree in Spanish with a business and mathematics minor. At the time of his death he was attending Idaho State University, majoring in nuclear engineering.

Ryan and Naomi Roberts were married June 15, 1996, in the Idaho Falls LDS Temple for time and all eternity. They have lived in Kalamazoo, Mich.; Albany and Portland, Ore.; and Monteview, where Ryan farmed with his father. He was active in the LDS church, having served in scouting and as a ward finance clerk. He enjoyed woodworking, camping, running, cycling and experimenting in the kitchen. He found great joy in obtaining knowledge, attending the temple and being with his family.

He is survived by his wife, Naomi; their children, Benjamin, Elizabeth, Emily and Anna; his parents, Don and Pat Parker of Rexburg; and siblings, Blaine (Lori) Parker of Granbury, Texas, Laurie Parker of Rexburg, Julie (Ryan) Lamb of The Woodlands, Texas, Debra (Jared) Hartley of Provo, Utah, and Kristen (Jason) Flanders of Provo, Utah.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Monday, April 5, at the Monteview LDS Chapel. The family will receive friends from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Sunday at Flamm Funeral Home in Rexburg, and from 9:30 a.m. to 10:45 a.m. prior to the services at the church. Interment will be in Parker Cemetery. Condolences may be sent to the family at www.flammfh.com.

Ryan was one of my FHE brothers from Ricks. i have very fond memories of him. He will be greatly missed! Love and prayers to your family dear friend. I will have to find some pictures from our time at Ricks.

Heartbeat!

2010-03-23T10:31:00.000-07:00

Feb. 9, 2010

We had another Dr. appt. today. Things are going well. I have only gained 2 lbs so far but then was told to expect to start gaining from here on out. =( (Mixed emotions on this) I was about 10 lbs more than I wanted to be to start with so doesn't that even out somehow? In my mind it does I think the baby could just absorb those lbs I don't want and didn't need so I don't have to gain quite as much. Oh well! The heartbeat was good and strong, averaging about 150 beats a minute. I asked the Dr. guess on boy or girl and she wouldn't say. So if you want to give me your guess they are welcome. We will know for sure hopefully in a little less than a month either way if this little one will cooperate. We are at week 16!

Just an update it's up to 11 lbs now! We still have several more weeks to go! Still waiting for the belly to pop out! We are week 21!

Sorry these are out of date and kind of random thoughts!

Grandma is excited for grand baby #3!

2010-03-21T11:45:00.000-07:00

Jan 30, 2010

I overheard my mom talking to one of her friends today and I could hear the excitement in her voice as she was telling her friend about me and her future grand baby! I have enjoyed asking my mom all kinds of questions about when she was pregnant with me. She even was here when I had my last ultrasound and was really excited to see the really active baby inside me. She told me when was pregnant with me it was a surprise you didn't know if you were having a boy or girl until the baby arrived. Times have changed!

Pregnancy Sucks!

2010-03-18T10:42:00.000-07:00

Feb. 12, 2010

One of my friends gave me a book with this title and I am finding it quite funny. It's amazing what information family and friends tend not to mention in all the glorious woo's of pregnancy. I'm not saying I agree it just kind of funny to really get a true sense of what is coming or will happen. Mind you I will not read any further than I am in fear of knowing what is to come. I will only read it after I have passed that point. I just want to know why the secrets ladies??? I have been told you have to go to the bathroom more often but no one tells you just how often. And that you will be running to the bathroom on average 3 to 4 times in the middle of the night. And kids at school want to know why I'm so cranky! Well I don't sleep except for one 1/2 to 2 hour at a time. But every time I see my baby or hear it's heartbeat I remind myself that it all very worth it! So maybe that is the answer after the baby comes you forget all the stuff that might have driving you crazy at the time. Enjoy the journey is what wise friends have said and I remind myself of that as well. I have waited a long time to experience all that I am now experiencing and wouldn't trade it for anything!

Movement! I LOVE IT!!!

2010-03-15T22:13:00.000-07:00

My sweet baby girl is getting stronger and stronger as the days go by. I am so enjoying all the wiggles I can feel inside. I know there will come a day not too far away that it won't be as fun but I love feeling her move. I felt the little flutters in the beginning and would sometime just lay in bed and laugh. Ralph was curious to what was so funny? It kind of tickles a bit and it just makes me happy a laugh out loud happy! And it's kind of a time where you can only feel it and know what is happening. She is getting so strong that Ralph felt her move the other day. We continue to wiggle along!!!

Pregnancy pact!

2010-03-14T07:48:00.000-07:00

Feb. 25, 2010

So recently on Lifetime they had a show about the teenagers who all agree to get pregnant at the same time. Crazy I know. It's odd though many (5) of my friends from Texas are all pregnant too. It's like we made a pact but didn't know it. We are all within weeks of each other. Funny how things work out sometimes!

Two Spoiled Girls!

2010-03-09T17:51:00.000-08:00

After finding out that we are having a girl I told Ralph now he will have two Spoiled Girls! He commented back I can barely afford you! We are very excited and can't wait to meet our sweet little baby girl!