Thursday, March 31, 2011

Oh how I love thee... (18)

... let me count the ways.

I love how quick Michael is to give God credit or thanks.  I try to be mindful of it, but even when I forget or am sidetracked, he will remember.  He does it in the big things and in the small things.  I love that when he gets in the car after loading the groceries in the back, he says something like "Thank you Lord for providing this food for us".  He thanks Him for giving us money to to pay for gas.  He thanks Him any time someone blesses us.  He thanks Him for the small answers to prayers and also for the big directions, like moving to Texas.  Anytime something happens at work, or something works out in our favor, he will send me a text saying "Praise the Lord".  I am thankful that I have a husband who is willing to give God the credit.  He's a great example to me and others.

Wednesday, March 30, 2011

The O

I mentioned in my "nursery" post that I was planning on using some sort of "O" in Olivia's room.  Since I got the idea in my head of decorating an "O", I had to get on it! :)  I didn't have much of a plan.  I just knew that I wanted a pretty big sized O in order to be able to really decorate it.  I found what I wanted at JoAnn's.  Then I just walked through the scrapbook and ribbon aisles and gathered things I thought looked good.  I wasn't quite satisfied, so the next day I went to Hobby Lobby.  After gathering all of my supplies, I just sat down and played it by ear.  Here's how it turned out.

I swear, when I leaned it on the dresser it was straight!  Now it looks like it's leaning to the right.  Oh well.  It will eventually get hung up.  I'm planning on hanging it inside of an empty frame.

First, I painted it white.
Second, I used the brown flower scrapbook paper on the left.
One of the other things I bought (the shiny rub on paisleys) came with some sticky bling bling.  
I just added them to the middle of a few of the flowers.

In order to cover up the line of the paper, I glued on some green flower jewels

I added paisley scrapbook paper to the bottom.
I covered that edge with ribbon. 
I also added some swirly things and some more jewels. :)

More ribbon in a circle pendant

I didn't get a close up of the paisleys, but they were rub-ons.  They are a little shiny.  Each one is individual, so I just made up the pattern myself.
I do realize that the white doesn't stand out too much against the walls.  I did think about this before painting it.  However, we only plan on living in this apartment until Olivia is about 5 or 6 months.  Eventually her nursery will have painted walls.  Because of that, I went with the white.  I'm pretty happy with how it turned out.  I'll show you again once it gets on the wall.

Tuesday, March 29, 2011

This and That Tuesday

My boss work for Pepsico, so there is a lot of Pepsi and Frito Lay paraphernalia laying around the house.  Little Man especially loves Cheetos, so he has a few Chester Cheetah things.  On Friday he came running out of the house (in socks!) so excited to give me this
He proudly exclaimed it was for Olivia.  
Pepsi has never been my first choice of drink, but I sure do love that it pays my bills! :)

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We got Michael's schedule.  It goes by performance rather than seniority and there is a chance to switch your schedule around every 6 months.  Michael was 3rd in his class, so he was able to pick from the list pretty quick.  Unfortunately, none of the choices were that great.  I guess that's what you get when you are new.  Starting April 10th he will be working Sunday through Thursday 3 PM to 11:30 PM.  Luckily he'll have his Friday's (and nights) off, as well as all day Saturday.  Also, since he won't have to go to work until 3 on Sundays, we'll be able to go to church.  Unfortunately, the small group is Sunday nights, so for now we will miss out on that.  The twist in all of this is that the 6 month "change your schedule" time (it has a technical name, but I don't know it) is in the middle of May.  That means he will only work this schedule for 30 some days before it could get changed again.  The change could end up being good, or it could end up being bad.  Since it goes by performance, and he'll only have been on the phones for about a month, there is no telling where he will fall in the ranking.  Again, it's all part of being new.  One good thing is that he will get the shift differential of a dollar more an hour.

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I just found out that Little Man will be doing the summer camp program at his school.  They have two sessions and he will be doing both.  One runs the entire month of June and the other runs the entire month of July.  He gets out at the end of May, so he will literally have one week off and then go back to school.  He will also have just a few weeks off in August before returning for Kindergarten.  The camp times are the same as he goes now (8:45 to 11:45), so not much of our schedule will change.  I think they are doing this for numerous reasons.  One, going to a Montessori school is very different for him, and he is having to adapt, adjust and in some ways "catch up".  (Which, in reality isn't because he's behind.  They expect preschoolers to do 1st grade work.  Don't get me started!!!)  K said they chose to do it because Nana and Papa will be here for the month I am on maternity leave.  She wants him to keep some sort of schedule instead of having a free for all every day.  She also said that she didn't figure I'd be wanting to drive him all around Dallas trying to find things to entertain him with during my last month of pregnancy. (How nice and thoughtful!)  She didn't say so, but I think they are also doing it as a sort of back up.  The school has a before and after school program.  If anything should happen to me during the end of my pregnancy, or I get stuck at the doctor for a long time (fetal stress test,etc), or I go into labor before Nana and Papa are in town, then he can stay at school.  Also, I go to my doctor appointments while he is at school, so it will be nice that I won't have to drag him along to any.  I'm pretty happy about it.  Honestly, I've been having a hard time finding things for us to do around town.  The idea of filling up a summer with fun places to go is just exhausting to me.  Now I only have to fill up a week! :)  Plus, I'll be able to rest in the mornings still.

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Items are being collected and shipped for the nursery.  I'm so excited.  I haven't done much else with it since the last time you saw it.  I'm waiting for all the pieces to come together first.  I'm not exactly sure where I want some things hung.  One item got shipped over the weekend and the other should be shipped within the week.  I'm also going to get a few floating shelves or something.  Then the fun will begin!  I can't wait to show you the progress.  I'm pretty sure that since most of the walls in our apartment are still bare, she's going to have the best decorated room of the place. :)

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Back when I was one of the single teachers at school, I was asked to stay with the kids of one of our school families while the parents were on vacation.  There were four kids and they ranged in age from 5th grade to 12th grade.  3 of the kids were girls and one was a boy.  They were (are) very good kids.  They probably didn't need me.  I was just there to make meals, make sure they got up and out the door for school, and to make any judgment calls (like when one was sick and needed to stay home from school).  I had a blast.  The girls were great, and I was young enough that I was able to relate to them.  I stayed with them one to two times a year for the next 4 years.  They have since moved to Florida and the youngest is a senior in high school.  I keep up with them on facebook, but don't get to see them much.  They obviously won't be able to come to my baby shower, but I got this in the mail yesterday
Attached was a sweet note saying that they are so happy that the best nanny ever is now needing one of these.  They are so happy for me and love me.  How sweet is that?  I love that family!  Getting the bassinet was just the icing on the cake.

Monday, March 28, 2011

25 Weeks

 We had an entire week in the 80's and then suddenly Sunday it was in the 50's.  Brr!
As you can see, I am still sporting the "B" bump.  My belly button isn't even close to popping!  I'd rather it not pop, but I'd also like to have a normal looking bump.  Hmm...


How far along: 25 weeks

Size of baby: for weeks 25 to 28 the baby is the size of an eggplant

Total weight gain/loss: +15.8 (stayed the same)

Maternity clothes: still a mix, but mostly maternity
I am in a weird stage.  I bought a few sundresses a while back thinking that I will live in them this summer. I got them a little bigger.  I figured I'd be huge and I want to be comfortable.  They are still too big.  It's been in the 80's all week, so pants and long sleeve shirts are out too.  I needed some in-between spring clothes.  So, I went shopping! :) Maternity clothes are annoying to me.  They either cost a fortune (they know you NEED them and have to pay!), are not cute, or just cannot be found.  I don't prefer to order online, because it's hard to know if they will fit and then it costs a fortune to send back.  I'm thinking if you are looking for a way to make money--open a maternity clothing store with cute and cheap clothes.  You'll be set!  Anyway, I did find another pair of leggings.  This time I went with navy cropped ones.  I got two different tunics to go with them.  I also found a few capris and another t-shirt type shirt.  I think I'll be set now.  Well, I'm still looking for a cute outfit to wear to my baby shower, but other than that, I'm good. :)


Gender: It's a girl!  Olivia Grace is on her way!

Movement: Wow!  She is moving a lot now.  It's becoming pretty predictable too.  That is, if I'm sitting or laying around.  I don't notice it as much if I'm on the move.  She kicks in the morning (after breakfast), again in the afternoons during nap time, almost every day around 4, and then at night around 9.  I actually SAW my belly move this week, which was cool but a little weird.  Michael was able to see it move on Saturday night, although the kicks weren't quite as hard then so the movement was a little quicker/softer.  I'm sure we have plenty of time to see belly movement! :)

Sleep: I started out the week with some insomnia.  I heard it's common in the 3rd trimester, so I'm suspecting that will get worse in weeks to come.  I didn't even hardly nap this week either.  My sleep got better toward the end of the week.  Thank goodness!

What I miss: sleeping on my stomach


Cravings: not much this week, ice cream maybe?

Symptoms: back pain, some insomnia, swollen hands and feet, and a very slight linea nigra

I've had a few mornings where I throw up my breakfast and I can't figure it out.  I don't think it's morning sickness.  There is no nausea.  Nothing.  I just eat, then throw it up, then I'm all better.  It's not acidic either.  I'm thinking it may have something to do with the thyroid medicine, but I don't know.  I'm suppose to take it first thing in the morning, on an empty stomach, with lots of water, and a half hour to hour before I eat.  I do all those things--except maybe I'm not drinking enough water with it?! That's all I can think of.  But my boss is on the same stuff, an even higher dosage, and she said she doesn't even follow the rules sometimes and she's never had a problem.  So I don't know.  Maybe it is a weird kind of morning sickness?


Surprises: seeing my belly move... we thought it would be a little bit before that happened.  

Fun Purchases: I bought all the supplies to start making my letter "O" for Olivia's room

Milestones: I'm in my 6th month!

What I'm looking forward to: My trip to Ohio!  I get a few days off work... get to see some of my most favorite people... get to have a fun baby shower... hang out with family from Indiana (part of my favorite people, but they are staying overnight, so I get to see them for a good amount of time)... road trip with my friend Laurie!!

Sunday, March 27, 2011

Saturday, March 26, 2011

Church

One of the most asked questions I've gotten over the past few months is, "Have you guys found a church yet?"  Happily, I can finally say yes.  There was a time there where I just wasn't sure!

Church hunting is one of my least favorite things.  I do realize there isn't a perfect church out there.  I'm not looking for the perfect church.  I'm looking for a church to call home.  Unfortunately, today's church is just a mess to me.  Like with the rest of our fast paced, fast food, microwave lives, we want our church to do the same.  I say "we" when referring to society.  I personally don't.  That's the problem.  Michael and I are pretty traditional.  Young 30's who are traditional when it comes to churches is just unheard of.  Everyone in our generation wants a coffee house church where they can feel comfortable, be ushered in and out in no time, and move on with their day to day lives with no further thought.  I don't want a pastor who tip toes around issues like fragile eggshells as to not offend the people and keep the chairs crowded.  I want someone who is willing to step on toes (if necessary) in a sermon--challenge and convict.  Isn't that what it's about?  Shouldn't we be growing and learning instead of occupying a pew for an hour on a Sunday morning?  Maybe we need to re-read the Bible.  Christianity isn't suppose to be easy, feel good, and easily compromised.  That's why it's called "the straight and narrow".

There lies the problem.  Do we go to a church that has people our age, but is lacking in so many other areas that we find important?  Or do we go to a church that has the things we find important, but not very many people our age... because our age is at the coffee house church making themselves feel better.

Thankfully, we found a church that was a good compromise.  We purposely set out to find an Assemblies of God church.  It's not that I believe "my denomination is better than your denomination".  It's that I grew up in the AG and I know what to expect.  I know what they believe.  There are people governing them, instead of just a group of people doing things their way.  It has the programs for kids that I am familiar with.  Things like church camp, youth convention and youth group are what I accredit for me being where I am today.  I want my children to have the same thing.  I want to know that when my kids go play at a church friend's house, their parents have the same views as me.  (It's been my experience, even without kids, that at some non-denominational churches, views are WIDE and FAR apart).

We've visited this new church twice and really like it.  It's a little bit further out than we had hoped, but I'm willing to drive for a good church.  Last night the young adults got together for a fun little gathering.  We went bowling, to dinner and out for frozen yogurt (which is literally on every corner here).  Michael and I had a really good time.  The people are our age.  They were nice and friendly.  We felt comfortable almost right away.  It was nice to spend 4 hours on a Friday night with other people our age that shared our values and ideals.  They get together about once a month for hang outs and such.  They also have a life group that meets once a month.  We probably won't be able to make all of them with Michael's work schedule, but we look forward to being part of a group and a church where we can get involved and be at home.

Friday, March 25, 2011

Spring is here!

Here in Texas it's felt like spring for the past month!  But... the season of spring officially started this week.  I'll admit, spring isn't my most favorite season, but the sunshine and flip flop weather sure are nice.

In honor of spring, I am sharing a kids craft with you.  I get our crafts from four places--either an idea that popped into my head, store bought ones from a craft store, blogs that I follow, or an internet search.  There are tons of ideas out there!  There should never be reason why you don't have a craft for your little ones!

Little Man and I did this craft two years ago (before blogging), so I don't have a picture of it.  However, the place where I got it from has a picture and directions for you!  I got it at Busy Bee Kids Crafts.  This website had lots and lots of fun and cute kids crafts.

Is that not the cutest thing ever?  I'll admit, the one Little Man made didn't turn out quite as cute, but it still was adorable (and 3 year old made).  You can follow the link to get the directions and find other fun crafts for your kiddos.

Thursday, March 24, 2011

More Little Man and Olivia hilarity

I've already told you that Little Man is super excited about the arrival of Olivia.  He is always asking me questions, telling me things I should do, and talking to my belly.  Here are some more funny conversations for you.

Backstory: One day, while driving in the car, we discussed that Olivia will soon be joining him in the back seat.  I explained to him that she will be facing him, so he'll have to help me watch her.  He was pleased with that.  He also likes that she will be dropping him off at school and picking him up.

A few days later we were sitting around watching TV and he said, "I love you".  After a pause he said, "but not as much as I love mommy".  I told him that's how it should be.  He can love lots of people, but he should love his mommy and daddy the most.  Then I said, "Just like Olivia will love me the most because I am her mommy".  That led us to a circle of who loves who and how much.  A half hour later he said, "You know Bethany, I think Olivia might love me more than she loves you.  I know you are her mommy, but I have curly hair." Ha ha!

He followed that up "I think Olivia is going to think I'm her daddy".  Before I could even get a word out of my mouth, he emphatically said, "I KNOW Michael is her daddy, but I think she might think I'm her daddy.  You are going to watch her when she is home and I'm going to watch her in the car, so she might think that I'm her daddy". LOL!

Wednesday, March 23, 2011

We have a... "nursery"?

Genius, I am not.  I have never been a 4.0 student, but I've always been alright with that.  Mostly because, while I may not have the highest level of book smarts, I have been blessed with common sense and good thinking skills.  I tend to think things through pretty well.  However, I think this pregnancy must have knocked me off my game.  Especially when it came to the nursery.

Our second bedroom was set up as a guest room with our extra bed.  I was trying to figure out a way to accommodate guests and baby furniture.  I had pretty much come to the conclusion that a nursery was not going to happen.

The crib- My first thought was to put it in our room.  I quickly realized it was not going to fit next to the bed and possibly not at at all.  In order to get it to fit, it would mean Michael trying to move heavy furniture himself.  After talking with my cousins and some friends, I realized that I should just go with a bassinet and put the crib in the other room.  I was just going to move one dresser and make it work.

The changing table- I was maybe going to put it in our room... or maybe in our dining room, which is not really a dining room, but rather baby central.

The dresser- We decided to get it so that when we get a house we will have matching furniture.  We were maybe not even going to put it together... mostly out of lack of space.

Then..... one day the pregnancy brain fog lifted and I figured out that this was not the best solution.  I can have a nursery.  It may not be my ideal nursery, but it will work.  We spent the last few weekends putting my plan into motion--well, at least the furniture part.

First, we moved the bed and dressers.  One dresser got put into my closet (it got another make over) and one ended up in Michael's closet.  The bed ended up on the wall by the door/window.
Please excuse the tools and Playstation 2!  Normally, I would never put a bed under a window like that.  I would also never put it so close to a wall.  BUT, desperate times call for desperate measures. :)  I figured we are only going to have a guest sleeping in the bed for maybe month.  We are going to have a baby who needs a room.

When you look into the room from the doorway, you see the crib

Then next to it is the changing table (which will be getting a new pad) and then the dresser.
Lining up the furniture so close would also not be my ideal decorating style.
However, having all the baby furniture in one room as opposed to scattered all over the house is worth it.

The bedding is just the right color pink--it just shows up a little pale in pictures


I really like the furniture.  I am especially in love with the dresser.  I'm glad we got it.

This corner is still a little messy.  I'm considering hanging a curtain rod and hiding it behind a sheet or something. :)

We are going to add green to the mix, even though green is not in the bedding.  Our plan is to eventually have very light green walls.  We haven't decided if we are going to paint at the apartment or just wait until we move into a house.

That's all we have so far.  Putting the furniture together has been work enough. :)  I'll be adding more and more details as time goes on.  I'll keep posting about the progress.

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

Mama called the Doctor and the Doctor said...

Ok, I didn't call her.  I went to see the doctor yesterday.  Here's the scoop:

* My blood pressure is still good.

* I got the OK to travel to Ohio in a few weeks.  (which I knew wouldn't be a problem)
She told me to just make sure I move my legs around a lot and get out of the car to stretch often.
Pregnant women are more susceptible to blood clots.

* Olivia's heart rate was 160.

* She wasn't concerned about my weight gain, so neither am I! :)

* She said going to the chiropractor while pregnant is pretty normal.  She gave me a guys name.  Now I have to wait for insurance to kick in and then see if he's in my network.  She said if going to a chiropractor doesn't work, they have an in house physical therapist that I could go to.  She also recommended maybe trying to sleep in a recliner instead.


* I'm suppose to go back in 4 weeks, but because I will be out of town for my shower, I am going back in 3.  My next appointment is April 12th.  I will have an ultra sound that day to see if my placenta has moved.  I will also have my 1 hour glucose test that day.  Yuck!  Since I am over 30, overweight, and have a history of diabetes in my family--I am not holding out hope of passing it.  We'll see.

* I said I thought she had flipped and is no longer breech.  My doctor said they don't even worry about that until 35 weeks.  Up until then she could flip flop every week!

* She asked me if I had noticed any difference with the thyroid medicine.  I said that it was marginal at best.  She said that's pretty common.  Lots of times, (non pregnant) women think that by getting on thyroid medication they will start to shed the weight faster (because thyroid issues can make you gain weight).  She said that's just not the case.  It may make it slightly easier to lose the weight, but that's about it.  She also said that I will most likely be on the medicine the rest of my life--since my mom, grandma and aunt all have been on thyroid medication and/or have had thyroid issues for years.  This does not surprise me, but doesn't really thrill me either.

* I will see her again at 28 weeks (or 27 because of vacation).  After that I will go to every 2 weeks.  Then at 36 weeks I will see her every week.

Overall it was a very basic and quick check up.  She's happy with everything.  For now, we continue on as usual.

Monday, March 21, 2011

24 Weeks

 This is the first time I've worn leggings in probably 20 years!  I never would have bought them had I not been pregnant.  They are back in style now (which I am thankful for), and I thought I'd give them a try.  I have a few non-maternity dresses that I thought I might be able to wear still, but would look better with something under them.  Plus, my legs are getting larger and are pasty white still! :P  I bought this pair specifically to wear with the dress in the picture.  Oh my goodness--I'm in love!  They are so comfy!  Mine are still a little big in the belly, but that just means room to grow.  (I'd rather they be too big than too small and be uncomfortable.)  I'm thinking of finding some in other colors.  I also want to get a few light weight maternity tunics to wear over the leggings for the spring/summer.  I'm pretty sure these beauties are going to the hospital with me as well!  I think they'd be good to wear home?!

How far along: 24 weeks

Size of baby: baby is the size of a papaya (still)
Next week is a new food--I promise! :) 

Total weight gain/loss: +15.8

Maternity clothes: still a mix, but mostly maternity
The warm weather is upon us!  I busted out a maternity skirt.  It was still a little big, but that's OK.

Gender: It's a girl!  Olivia Grace is on her way!

Movement: Yep, she's on the move!  I actually think she flipped back to being breech, but then flipped back to normal.  At least that's how the kicks have felt over the last few weeks. The kicks are definitely harder.  Michael finally felt her on Saturday morning.  I rolled onto my back (to relieve some of the pain) and she kicked hard.  Then I put my hand on the spot and she kicked again.  I was positive I felt it from the outside, so I told Michael to give me his hand.  She kicked him twice!

Sleep: still the same--sleeping alright.  I get up a couple of times a night to go to the bathroom.  I also wake up with (severe) back pain at least 3 to 4 nights a week.

What I miss: sleeping on my stomach

Cravings: Still not really craving things, but when people mention food on facebook or I see a commercial for yummy food, then I really want it!  We ate at Chipotle on Monday night because someone had posted about it on facebook during the day! :)

Symptoms: back pain!!!
The itchy skin has subsided some... I started using Palmer's cocoa butter a few weeks ago.  I'm wondering if that is what was making my skin itch?  I'm not allergic to anything that I know of, but it could be that I can't use it.  I stopped using it this week just to see and the itching seems to have gotten better.  Now I'm afraid to try it again. :)  I've heard two theories on stretch marks--some books say that it is genetic.  If your mom got them, then you will.  If she didn't, then you probably won't.  They say no amount of lotion or cream will help.  Then their are other people who swear by the creams and lotions.  I didn't use anything until I got one little stretch mark on my lower belly.  The Palmer's did help lighten the look of the stretch mark.  I haven't gotten any others since.  My mom said she barely got any and they don't look that bad today.  We'll see.  If I start getting more, I may have to find another stretch mark cream/lotion?!?!

Surprises: We got an email from the crib company.  They said that since the part wasn't available we just needed to return the crib to Target for a new one.  Even though boxing up the old crib wasn't our idea of fun, I am glad this was the option.  It meant getting the replacement right away instead of waiting for it to be shipped to us.  Also, the exchange at Target went really well.  I was expecting to have to put up a fight or something.  We got the changing table put together last week and the dresser and crib together yesterday.  Pictures to come soon!

Fun Purchases: We spent Friday night roaming the aisles of Buy Buy Baby.  (It's owned by Bed, Bath and Beyond.  It has some more high end items and a little different selection that Babies R Us).  I bought a few baskets, a picture frame, some hangers, and a wall decor thing.  I registered for baskets to go on the changing table shelves.  I also registered for a few baskets for the closet, but my registry says "limited availability".  Even if someone does find the closet baskets, I knew I could always use more.  I wanted to start getting things organized, so I got three.  I really like the pattern on the liner.  I may go back for more! :)  I've already started filling the ones I have!

Milestones: It's Viability Day!  Not that I want Olivia to make an appearance any time soon, but it's nice to know that from here on out she would have a chance of survival.

What I'm looking forward to: I'm actually looking forward to my Dr.'s appointment this morning.  I feel like it's been forever since I've seen her.  I have lots of questions this time around.  I'm also looking forward to going to Ohio in a few weeks for my baby shower.  The trip alone is probably going to cost me more than all the gifts I get, but that's alright.  It's more about the experience and spending time with my family and friends.  I have been to a ton of baby showers over the past 3 years.  I have also sent gifts across the country to friends having babies. I have been surrounded by people having babies.  I am just ready to be on the other end--the one anticipating the arrival of my firstborn. :)

Sunday, March 20, 2011

Laura Story--Blessings

This song has popped up in my facebook feed numerous times in the past couple of weeks.  Each time, the person posting it said something like "I needed to be reminded of this" or "these words really spoke to me".  It may not be your style of music, but maybe the words are something that you need to hear today. :)

The story behind the song


The song


ALSO, HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO MY DEAR FRIEND LAURIE!!! Love you girl!

Friday, March 18, 2011

St. Patrick's Day Crafts

I found both of these by doing a simple google image search for "St. Patrick's Day crafts for preschoolers".

First is a four leaf clover.  I'll admit... it doesn't look much like a four leaf clover, but whatever. :)
What you do: paint hand green and glue to paper in form of a four leaf clover.
Little Man added glitter and also a boarder of glitter glue.

We were doing so good with this leprechaun until Little Man wanted to add an orange tongue. ha!
 What you do: paint the edge of a paper plate orange (food side down), add hat with strip and buckle, glue hat on, cut the edge of the plate to make beard, and add face.  The directions said to glue on a face--mouth and eyes.  I thought I'd just have Little Man draw the face.  It sure does make it authentic. :)

Thursday, March 17, 2011

St. Patrick's Day Crafts of Old

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

Did you remember to wear green?
Here are some crafts from years past.  More crafts should be coming tomorrow.

This one was found on a blog.  We did it 2 years ago, so it was done by a 3 year old.  The older the child the better the rainbow (I would imagine).  Either way, it's cute and easy.
Two years ago, before Little Man was in preschool, we use to take lots of classes.  One class we took was at our local rec center.  It was called Ooey Gooey Art and Crafts.  The class happened to fall around St. Patrick's day, so we did a few projects.  This one was a simple finger printed rainbow.  It was on shiny paper with glitter paint.  Then the kids were suppose to stamp green clovers.  Again, this was done by a 3 year old, so the clovers got a little mushed.  

They also made a crown.  Oddly, Little Man was just playing with this again a few months ago.

You can also check out a few of my St. Patrick's day posts from last year here and here.

Little Man and I will also be enjoying a nice smooth shamrock shake today!
Have a great one!

Wednesday, March 16, 2011

Daddy's Little Girl

We went to the outlet mall with our friends back in January.  There were so many good deals on children's clothing, but we didn't know if we were having a boy or a girl yet.  It was hard to resist, but we did.

Michael fell in love with a few onesies at Old Navy.  Can you guess what they were?  Superman and Batman... both in girls colors and traditional boys colors.  He vowed to get them once we found out the sex.

We went back to the outlet mall last month.  Old Navy still had the onesies, but they weren't really on sale.  We both agreed that $12.50 for one onesie was a little steep since we were finding other deals for $3 and $4.  He wanted me to "register" for them.  Yeah... I'm not registering at Old Navy for two onesies, buddy! :)

Well that takes me to last week.  I went to Old Navy looking for maternity pajamas.  They had none.  So, of course I had to wander the kids clothes section.  I came across some pajamas that I knew Michael would love.  I sent him a picture and his one word response was "YES!"

They were on sale for $10.50.  I've heard over and over that you can never have enough pajamas.  People love to buy you cute clothes, but no one buys you pajamas.  (Hence, one of the reasons I like to give pajamas as a gift!)  I figured it couldn't hurt.  I got one in a size 6 to 12 months and one in a size 12 to 18 months.  Turns out they were on clearance on top of the sale price.  I got them for $7.50 each.  I thought that was a deal.

I found a few other things on the clearance rack.  I got a hoodie for $2, a shirt and pants outfit for $4, and a dress and bloomer set for $5.  I was ready to leave and then it hit me that I should check to see if they had the onesies that Michael wanted.  THEY DID!  Plus, they were on sale.  The sale wasn't great, but I figured there was little Michael cared about when it came to clothing.  I had to get them.
Again, I got varying sizes.  She will go from one super hero right to the next.  Oh, and I had to get jeans to match! :)  Daddy is super happy to be having a girl.  He's going to be loving her in her super hero gear!

Tuesday, March 15, 2011

Stories

Story # 1

It turns out that my OBGYN's son is in Little Man's Tae Kwon Do (TKD) class.  Usually the nanny brings him, but she is there every once in a while.  She was there last week and just happened to sit next to me.  I knew she didn't really know who I was.  I've only see her once, and it was way back in January.  (My February appointment was with the person doing the sonogram and then the nurse practitioner.)  Normally I am not the kind of person to just carry on conversations with people around me.  However, Nana and Papa were there, and Nana will talk to everyone!  I had told her she was my OBGYN and that was all the more reason for her to chat! :)  We talked through most of the class... just things about LM's hair, and how her son wasn't paying attention, etc.  At one point she asked me how I was related to LM.  I said I was his nanny.  I also introduced Nana.  I said that we had just moved here and Nana was visiting.  I explained that Little Man's family had paid to move me down here with them.  She said she wasn't sure if I was the step mom.  Then the conversation went something like this:

Dr.: "Where did I just here something about that?  Someone else was telling me that a family moved them here to be their nanny".
Me: "It was probably me"
Dr.: "No.... (pondering, and probably thinking she had never talked to me before).  It wasn't you..."
Me: "Hmm..."
Dr.: "Who was that?.... (pondering)
Me: "I think it might have been me"
Dr.: "No... You know, I think it was one of my patients"
Me: "I am one of your patients"

This led to lots of laughs.  She said she thought I looked familiar, but then some days everyone looks like a patient.  She couldn't figure out where she knew me from.  I told her not to worry... that I had only seen her once and it was a month and a half ago.  I think that made her feel a little better.  Then Nana said, "You didn't recognize the belly?"  Ha!

Story # 2

Little Man loves talking about Olivia.  He is always full of questions and has really cute things to say.  Yesterday we had this conversation:

LM: "Hey Bethany, I saw a commercial for something I think Olivia will like when she's 2"
Me: "Oh yeah, what was it?"
LM: "It's a doll that you can feed it fake food.  Do you think she'll like that?"
Me: "Yep, she probably will"
LM: "Well, I don't think it will be good for her when she's 1.  She won't understand it.  She probably should just get it when she's 2."
Me: "You are probably right"

Isn't he the sweetest? :)

He also wants to know where I will be having her first birthday party, and what babies wear in the pool.  He said he thinks she will definitely need ducky floaties or she will drown.  ;)

I can't wait to see what he's like with her.  I'm pretty sure he is always going to be close by and be willing to help in any way he can.

Monday, March 14, 2011

23 Weeks


How far along: 23 weeks

Size of baby: baby is the size of a papaya (still)
At 22 weeks, the bump starts measuring the size of the baby by month.  I think she's going to be a papaya for a couple of weeks!  

Total weight gain/loss: +15
Yikes!  The few ounces I lost last week I gained back with a vengeance!
I'm not sure if it's because my routine was thrown off (staying at Little Man's house half the week), or if it's just normal pregnancy gain.  I did try to eat healthier this week, but some of my "out to eat" choices weren't the best.  The girl who's blog I got this survey thing from gained quite a bit at week 22.  She said her doctor said that baby and mommy gain a lot of weight this month.  I think I'm going to go with that theory! :)  I haven't seen my doctor in what feels like forever, so I hope she's ok with my gain when I go in next Monday.

Maternity clothes: still a mix, but mostly maternity

Gender: It's a girl!  Olivia Grace is on her way!

Movement: She has been kicking a lot this week.  I sent Michael a text one day saying that she was having a dance party in my belly and that he better start practicing his moves. :)  I feel like the kicks are getting much stronger.  I *think* I can feel them from the outside.  It's hard to tell at this point since I'm feeling them from the inside too.  Michael has yet to feel her. :(

Sleep: Once again I've had a pretty good week of sleep, but I've been waking up with terrible back pain.  If only I could sleep on my stomach or back!  I really want to get a prenatal massage, and probably will at some point.  However, I think I might need to see a chiropractor as well.  I've never been to one before!  I'm going to check with my doctor next week.  I'm almost positive it's OK, but she may have a recommendation of where to go.

What I miss: sleeping on my stomach

Cravings: not much this week... it's been a pretty normal week as far as eating goes

Symptoms: back pain and itchy skin

Surprises: We decided to try to put the baby furniture together.  I was sick of it sitting in boxes in our dining room.  Michael got the stuff out for the crib and unfortunately one of the pieces was damaged.  It was a piece that really did need to be replaced.  We couldn't live with the damage.  We emailed customer service last night and are hoping for a response today.  Even worse is that the piece we are needing says "out of stock" on the website.  It says it will be back in stock sometime in May.  This does not make me happy!  I'm really hoping that this is not the case.

Fun Purchases: We are starting to get things together for the "nursery", so we bought a few things for that.  (lamp, art and pom poms).  More on the "nursery" in another post -- coming soon! :)

Thursday, March 10, 2011

Heads Up

This is a bit of an unusual week for us.  Nana and Papa left on Tuesday morning after being here for 2 weeks.  It turns out that K had to go out of town on business this week.  She went on two different (one night) trips while they were here.  That was sort of the reason they came when they did and stayed as long as they did.  When this trip came up, they could not stay any longer.  Therefore, Michael and I are staying with Little Man.  We stayed last night and will be with him until late Friday night when K returns.  I won't have my evenings to leisurely scan the internet and spend anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour writing a blog.  (Yes, sometimes it takes that long!)  Plus, I don't really have much to say right now anyway........  So, I will be on a mini blog vacation due to work and lack of inspiration.  I will for sure be back on Monday for my bump update, and hopefully I'll figure out a few things to fill next weeks blog up with. :)  Until then, have a great weekend!  Love you all!

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Chicken and Cheese Enchiladas

It wasn't my intent to showcase all of the "made for two" recipes I got from my sister, but here is another one.  I guess I've been in an "oldie but goodie" mood when it come to cooking! :)  I believe this one came from the internet.  It's one I hadn't made in a while, but has always been a favorite with the friends and family I have made it for.  I would use the word "enchilada" lightly.  If you are familiar with authentic Mexican cooking... this is probably not for you! :)  It has definitely been "Americanized".  The recipe is intended to be quick and easy, which it is.  It's pretty yummy too!

The line up
1 medium onion, chopped
2 T margarine (I used butter)
1 1/2 cup shredded cooked chicken
1 jar (12 oz) picante sauce, divided (my jar was 16 oz)
1 t ground cumin
2 c shredded sharp cheddar cheese, divided (I use what I like)

Heat oven to 350*

Cook and stir onions and butter in large skillet until tender.  NOTE: I like onions, but using an entire onion seems a bit much to me.  I used about half of the one shown.

Stir in chicken, 1/4 c picante sauce, cream cheese and cumin
I just always use canned.  I'm not sure if that's what the original recipe said or where I got that idea, but it sure makes it easier.  I used 2 10 oz cans.  This was definitely more than a cup and a half, but I knew Michael would like it meaty.

Cook until heated through

Stir in one cup of cheese and blend well (when melted)

Divide mixture into 4 parts, spoon 1 part into center of tortilla.
Roll up and place seam down in large casserole dish

Top with remaining picante sauce and cheese
 Bake 15 to 20 minutes or until thoroughly heated


Serve with sour cream

This is suppose to be a 2 person meal.  I don't think so!  Michael ate one and was stuffed!  I ended up only eating half of one (with the corn and jello) and was full.  This left us with an entire leftover meal and a half of one for me to take to lunch!

Enjoy!

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Funny Conversations with Michael

Michael is hilarious!  I've said it before, but unless you've experienced his humor or his witty one liners, you may not believe me.  A lot of people think he's quiet.  He is far from quiet!  He cracks me up on a regular basis, and lately it's been from comical conversations related to having a baby.  I think you'll enjoy these! :)

One thing Michael completely understands, gets, and dwells on about babies are the poopy diapers.  We have had discussion after discussion about such topics.  Frankly, he's terrified!  Once, we were at a life group event, and we were sort of early.  We were sitting around in a friends living room talking and one of the mom's went to change her sons diaper.  It was not poopy--just pee.  Michael leaned over to me (horrified), and said "Is she going to do that right here in front of us?"  Through my laughs, I said yes.  He actually got up and went into the kitchen to "get a drink". LOL!

He knows that he is going to have to change poopy diapers.  I have given him article after article to read, so he isn't shocked when something crazy happens!  Before we were even pregnant, he was coming up with a list of items that he would need to change a diaper.  1) He wants an apron as to not get dirty or sprayed.  2) He wants something to plug his nose, because he doesn't think he'll be able to handle the smell.  3) He wants "rose colored glasses", as to change the appearance and color of the poop.  4) He wants gloves--to be fully protected of course.  After having this conversation multiple times, I finally said to him, "We're going to need a second diaper bag just to carry your stuff".  He literally froze in his tracks and said, "Oh, I didn't think about having to change the diaper outside of the house".  Oh man--I was crying from laughing so hard.

It's not entirely his fault.  He didn't grow up around babies like I did.  Plus, he's a guy.  It's not like babies interested him much over the past 30 years.  He fully admits that when it comes to his own kid, he'll be more hands on and be willing to try things.

Last week I was killing a little time before picking Little Man up from preschool.  There is a children's boutique in the strip mall near by.  I decided to go in and take a peek.  It was full of pink and brown and everything had ruffles or bows or glitter.  I saw a few things that were cute.  One was a onesie that said, "My dad did my hair".  Later that afternoon I was telling Michael about the shop.  I mentioned the onesie and once again, he froze in his tracks.  His face alone cracked me up!  After stammering for a few seconds he said, "I'll actually have to do her hair sometimes?"  I said YES and he said, "Like when?"   I said there could be times I may not be around.  He said, "Oh.  I just never thought about having to do her hair."  I think he was getting a little nervous.  I just kept laughing and laughing.

As mentioned before, we decided long ago that bath duty would be his.  I will have our child(ren) all day every day.  By him doing bath, it will give me a break and allow him to have some bonding time.  Plus, it's just an easy way for him to do some of the "chores" that come with child raising.  With that in mind, I said, "You're going to have to brush her hair often anyway.  You'll have to brush it after bath.  You can't send her to bed with tangles!".  Once again, you could practically see the wheels spinning.  We have been talking about him doing the kids baths for probably over a year now.  All of the sudden he realized we were having a girl and he said, "Uh... when can she start bathing on her own?"  LOL!  I said it depends on the child, but that even when she was a little bigger he'd still have to help wash her hair and dry her off, etc.  He said, "Well... when can they start washing their own body parts?"    Oh boy.  This guy is in for a looooooong ride!

That also led us to a conversation about him having to take her to the bathroom in public.  I told him that he was going to have to at some point, and that even though he is extremely modest, that he's going to have to get over it.  I reassured him that it's not inappropriate at that age, and that it must be done.  He just looked at me and then said, "When am I ever going to be out in public with her and you won't be there?"  Yep.  He actually thinks I will always be around! :)  I said, "You're never going to take her out just the two of you?  What if she begs to go with you?"  and he said, "Well, that won't be for years"    I said, "So you aren't going to take her anywhere until she's old enough to ask to go with you?"  He got a smile on his face and said, "Yeah"    Do you see what I'm dealing with?  He has no idea! :)  He said, "I just really can't picture a time or reason why you wouldn't be with us".  What I really find funny about the whole thing is...... I'm pretty sure that when she gets here--he's not going to let her out of his sight!  He'll be begging me to let her go to the store with him.  You wait and watch!  I'll keep you posted!

Monday, March 7, 2011

22 Weeks

 I am still sporting a "B" (but it is getting closer to a "D").  I have a very, very, very deep "innie" belly button!  I have always had a lower belly.  And by always, I mean since early childhood.  I can remember school clothes shopping in 4th grade and my mom saying "I don't know why you have such a belly.  I never had a belly until after I had kids."  This exact statement was made multiple times in my life.  Yep, it's always been there.  I don't know why either--it couldn't have anything to do with how I was fed as a child!? :)  But I digress... so the lower belly has been there, but for most of my life the upper belly was relatively flat.  Even when it was flat (including at my skinniest), there was still a line around my belly button.  I don't know how it got so deep, but it is deep!  In my weekly email from the bump, it said that my belly button should be popping any day now.  I seriously laughed out loud.  I may just be one of those girls who's pregnant belly button never pops.  I'd be ok with that.

Here's a comparison shot for you just for fun
 
                            16 WEEKS                                          22 WEEKS
Same outfit---different accessories.  Oh, and a bump! :)

How far along: 22 weeks

Size of baby: baby is the size of a papaya
At 22 weeks, the bump starts measuring the size of the baby by month.  I think she's going to be a papaya for a couple of weeks!  Babycenter does food analogies too, but some are just weird!

Total weight gain/loss: +12-12.4
I've been fluctuating all week, but either way, I lost a few ounces.

Maternity clothes: still a mix, but mostly maternity

Gender: It's a girl!  Olivia Grace is on her way!

Movement: I have felt lots of movement this week!  There were quite a few days where she was very active.  I am now positive that what I was feeling last week were kicks!  Her kicks are getting stronger.  We still haven't felt her from the outside though.  Every time I feel her kick, I try to feel it from the outside (so I know if I should try to have Michael feel for it when he's around).  As soon as I put my hand there, she stops kicking.  I'll wait... and wait... and when I take my hand away---you guessed it---she kicks!  Little stinker!  We shouldn't be surprised after all of her sonogram antics. :)  Hopefully Michael will get to feel her soon.  He's waiting very patiently.  The kicks seem to be back to where they were/should be, so I think she might have flipped.  Of course, she could flip back.  There is lots of time!

Sleep: I've had a pretty good week of sleep.  I still get up to pee, have trouble getting comfortable, and wake up with a back ache.  However, I've gotten some good stretches of sleep!  I haven't noticed any change in my energy since taking the thyroid medicine.  I'm guessing that the dosage is just too low.  There were two days this week where I was just exhausted.  I'm so thankful I can nap!

What I miss: sleeping on my stomach

Cravings: not much this week... it's been a pretty normal week as far as eating goes

Symptoms: I actually had a pretty mild week.  I didn't have any serious heartburn or acid reflux! Yay!  The one new symptom I've had is itchy skin.  It started Thursday.  I have been itching my belly lots.  It's because the skin is stretching, right?  I know I've heard of it (and seen preggo friends do it). 

Surprises: I'm still surprised that I am not bigger.  Even Michael says that he thought I'd be bigger by now.  Little Man's Nana and Papa have been in town for two weeks now and Nana keeps saying things like, "You don't look pregnant at all" and "I keep forgetting you are pregnant" and "Boy, you really wouldn't know you were pregnant by looking at you."  This is someone who has seen me every week for the past two and a half years.  On one hand, it sort of confirms what I've been thinking/feeling.  On the other hand, I want to say, "Did I really look like this 22 weeks ago?"  I sure hope not! :)  I'm sure it will be huge in no time though, so I'm alright with where I'm at.

Best moment of the week: feeling kicks

Fun Purchases: I ordered our bedding (from my mom) and it should be here soon.  Because of that, I also ordered the crib mattress.  I'm hoping to get things set up soon.

Sunday, March 6, 2011

The ABC's of Me

Because I have nothing else to post today........ I'm jumping on the bloggyland bandwagon and doing the ABC's of me.

(A) Age: 31

(B) Bed Size: King (finally!)

(C) Chore You Hate: cleaning the shower/tub
 
(D) Dogs? none

(E) Essential Start Your Day Item: a shower and make up... I don't leave the house without doing either

(F) Favorite Color: bright pink--fuschia

(G) Gold or Silver? silver, or white gold
 
(H) Height: 5' 4"

(I) Instruments You Play: I played the flute for a year in elementary school.  After that my parents didn't want to pay to rent it.

(J) Job Title: Nanny
 
(K) Kids: just the one on the way :)

(L) Live: Frisco, TX

(M) Mom's Name: Deb

(N) Nicknames: Befalby (Michael), Biffly/Biffy/Biffert (College friends), Beeg (college roommate)

(O) Overnight Hospital Stays? None!  Unless something terrible happens in the next 4 months, my first hospital stay will be child birth (besides my own birth)
 
(P) Pet Peeve: Oh, I have many!  Mostly insecure people bother me... those that feel the need to "know it all" or "be the best/first/greatest" at everything.

(Q) Quote from a Movie: I don't quote movies
 
(R) Right or Left Handed? Right

(S) Siblings: Five: Cliff Jr, Angella, Jeff, Rockie, and Jared

(T) Time You Wake Up? 6:30ish.  My alarm goes off at 6:20 and I hit snooze at least once

(U) Underwear: what is this question about? Yes, I wear them!

(V) Vegetable You Dislike: I like most vegetables.  I dislike brussel sprouts

(W) What Makes You Run Late: staying in bed too long

(X) X-Rays You've Had Done: I had severe stomach problems/pain my senior year of high school, so in order to find out or eliminate things I had a few different x-rays on my stomach and esophagus.  No fun!  Oh, and on my teeth, of course.
 
(Y) Yummy Food You Make: cheddar loaves?

(Z) Zoo, Favorite Animal: elephants

Pick three and tell me about you!

Saturday, March 5, 2011

Diaper Bag Drama

True to form, I have quite the opinion when it comes to diaper bags.  I have noticed, while stalking the bump, that diaper bags are a hot topic.  It seems that I tend to be in the minority with my opinion, but that's ok.  I've never been one to follow the trends just for trends sake or give in to peer pressure.  I like what I like and don't like what I don't like and am strong enough in who I am to be alright with that.

Here are my thoughts on a diaper bag:

* I absolutely refuse to spend a fortune on a bag.  
While I think the diaper bag is a very important item, I'm not going to go broke over it!  
I have noticed that people are paying between $250-$600 for designer bags.  
That is insane to me, and leads me to my next two points.

* I don't like diaper bags that look like purses.  
I will probably just throw a wallet in my diaper bag most days and not carry a purse, but it's still a diaper bag.  It carries diapers, and bottles (that can spill) and food (that can spill) and possibly dirty clothes.  I know it's just personal preference, but I want my diaper bag to look like a diaper bag.  I'm a mom.  I waited a long time to be a mom.  Why try to hide it by carrying a "diaper bag purse"?  Plus, I personally find most of them ugly (and expensive).  The most popular are the Kate Spade ones---starting at $250.  One girl on the bump said she had 3 bags.  I forget the designer, but she put the links in the post.  One was $300, one was $400 and one was $600.  Are you kidding me?  Even if you have the money, that is wasteful.

* Other popular ones are Coach bags.  I carried a $400 Coach bag for Little Man.  I've said it before, and I'll say it again... why does a bag with a bunch of "C"s on them appeal to people?  I'd rather have polka dots or stripes or flowers.  My name doesn't start with C.  My daughter's name doesn't start with C.  Why would I carry a $400 "C" bag because someone deemed it "cool"?!?!  No thanks.  Not only that, but the bag was heavy and uncomfortable to carry.

* I like to have a diaper bag that matches the sex of the baby.  After all, it's a reflection of them.  It carries all of their stuff.  If it's a boy, I like it to look boyish or at least have boy colors.  If it's a girl, I want it to look girly.  I know not everyone agrees with this.  Some just get a bag they like... this is just my style I guess.  Which leads me to my next point.

*I absolutely cannot stand people who feel the need to get a black bag or a separate bag (most popular is some skull and cross bone brand) for the dad.  All this crap about "My husband won't carry a pink diaper bag."  Are you kidding me?  Tell your husband to grow up!  (Sorry if I'm stepping on toes, but this is my blog and my opinion).  If black is your style, then fine.  But usually there is always some comment about the husband refusing to carry a girly bag.  Thankfully, I have a husband who finds this ridiculous as well.  He's not going to not carry a car seat because it's pink, or not carry our daughter because she's wearing pink.  He's not going to not push a stroller because it's pink, or not carry a sippy cup because it's pink.  When she goes to school and is carrying a pink back pack with flowers on it (or whatever), he's not going to tell her he can't carry it because it's pink.  So why in the world can't he carry a diaper bag (yes, diaper bag, NOT purse) because it is pink?  Give me a break.

Soooooooooo..... what I am looking for is a design I like, that has lots of pockets, is easy to clean, and is functional.  Not too much right?  One would think.  Just like with bedding and other such decisions, I have trouble committing.  It's not like it's a life and death decision, but I tend to not want to feel "tied down" to one bag or style.  I know I am way over thinking it, but that is just how it is.  I'm thinking that I may get a couple of diaper bags.  I like to change out my purses and I may like to change out my diaper bags.  I figure if I'm not spending a fortune on one, then it's ok.

Before I found out it was a girl, I was thinking about getting this one
I heard good things about it.  It comes in other patterns, but none I like.
Even though the colors are blue and green, I'm thinking I still may get it.  The paisleys make it a little girly and I think it can go either way.  Does it seem like I'm breaking my own rule?  The stroller and car seat are brown and blue, so I think it might work.  (I've noticed a bloggy trend of blue and brown girl nurseries?!)

If I was willing to spend some money ($150ish), I'd get a petunia pickle bottom bag.  I've been admiring them since before I was pregnant.  Unfortunately, $150 is still a little steep for me.


I've heard lots of people say good things about the Vera Bradley diaper bag.
 It's still $100 though.  While I might be willing to spend $100, I'm not sure if I can't just get a different Vera Bradley bag (for cheaper) and use it as a diaper bag.  I'd like to look at them in the store.  I like this new pattern, but I like it better on other bag styles.

There are lots on etsy I think are cute too, but they tend to be expensive as well.

While shopping at the outlet malls I ended up buying a bag.  It was only $25.  I bought it with the intent of getting a second (or third) bag.  I like it though.  What do you think?
After searching and searching and finding that most bags were $60 and up, I thought a decent looking bag for $25 was a steal!  I'm pretty happy with my purchase.

What do you think?  Do you have any diaper bag suggestions?  Did you have a bag/brand you loved?  hated?  Any tip I'm missing?  Thoughts on my choices?