A Minted Christmas and a Happy New Year

With Thanksgiving fast approaching, we're starting to think about all things Christmas in the Haney household. Don't get me wrong-- we respect the turkey. Our Thanksgiving day and meal is one of my very favorites of the entire year for many reasons, but I also love that it ushers in the Christmas season.

My husband is one who starts listening to Christmas music in October. I have no problem with people decorating as early as they want to, but we usually get our decorations up the week before Thanksgiving. In fact, we're dedicating most of our weekend to that!

One thing I've been thinking about a lot lately is our annual Christmas card. Since Griffin was born, it's been one of my very favorite parts of the holiday season! I love seeing our family grow every year and picking out the perfect card.

Minted has a fantastic selection of Christmas cards this year. I've had a hard time narrowing down which ones I like the most because they're all so unique and beautiful! We're always sure to include a photo on our card. Let's be honest, though. People don't want to see us-- they want to see Griffin!

Here are a few of my favorites this year…

{type frost}

{famille}

{merry wishes}

{john 1:14}

They also have a gorgeous selection of calendars. I think my very favorite is this Watercolor Brush Grand Calendar. I keep a master family calendar on our fridge; this would look beautiful in any kitchen or office space!

Of course, I'm already starting to think about birth announcements for our little pink bundle arriving in January. I've been swooning over so many of their options. I think this Hello Baby announcement could be perfect for our girl when she makes her grand appearance! 

You really can't go wrong with any of their products. Their site is easy to navigate and it's so simple to find exactly what you need!

We haven't had our pictures taken for our card this year, but Minted offers a really great option where you can buy your card design and then upload your picture when you have it! It's perfect for procrastinators like us. Ha!

Happy Thanksgiving and Merry (almost) Christmas to you and yours!

I was compensated for this post by Minted, but all thoughts and opinions are my own. 

30 Weeks

30 Weeks

November 13, 2013- November 19, 2013

How Far Along: 30 weeks

Size of Baby: She's nearly 16 inches long and weighs almost 3 pounds. That's the size of a head of cabbage. I can really feel her getting better; her kicks and rolls are getting stronger and more powerful. I love this stage!

Total Weight Gain: Not sure. We'll see at my appointment!

Maternity Clothes: Yes! I happened to throw on my Old Navy maternity skinnies from last pregnancy that are a full panel jean. I am just not a fan of ON maternity full panel pants; the panel only comes up halfway over my belly and it's not comfortable. I have been loving my Jessica Simpson skinnies from Destination Maternity. I will miss them come January!

Gender: Our little lady!

Movement: She's still the craziest at night when I go to bed. I feel her pretty regularly in the morning until about 10 minutes after I've finished my cup of coffee. She was going CRAZY for Tyler this week! She was rolling around and kicking his hand. His reaction was priceless. I think he'd forgotten how amazing it is to feel your child do that as it's been three years for us. We love this wild child so much already!

Sleep: Truly, I can't complain. I'm sleeping pretty well for someone in her third trimester. I'm not routinely waking up for hours on end and I wake up in the morning feeling fairly rested. I'm exhausted by 2:00 every day, but I don't think that has anything to do with how much I'm sleeping.

What I Miss: Nothing pops out this week! I'm trying to really soak up this pregnancy.

Cravings: Nothing I can think of off the top of my head. I could still eat a bean burrito from Taco Bell every single day!

Symptoms: Acne. I'm also to the point where going up the stairs makes me winded as heck. I have to go incredibly slow and if I don't, I actually have to sit down and catch my breath for a minute or two. I've been sending Tyler upstairs for most things when he's home and he's been such a trooper. I'm just running out of air!

Best Moment of the Week: Tyler was gone a lot this fall. I did a lot of single parenting and it was a tough few months. When he's gone, it's all me all the time. I don't have a nanny or any of our parents to help so it gets tiring and overwhelming. While he was gone, he booked me a "Mom to Be Maternity Package" at a local spa and I finally cashed in on it this week. I had a lovely maternity massage and a spa pedicure. It was a GLORIOUS three hours. I loved every minute of it!! I didn't do anything like that during my first pregnancy, so I appreciated it more than you know. I was so thankful for Tyler's thoughtfulness in insisting that I take some time to relax. I even got to lie on my stomach for my maternity massage which was incredible. Bubbles went absolutely bonkers from the new position, but she settled down pretty quickly so Mama could relax. It was a wonderful afternoon; thanks, babe!!

And just for kicks, here I am with both kids… Griffin on the left and Bubbles on the right. I think I look pretty similar!

Weekend Update

It's been awhile since I've done a weekend recap. We had a great few days and I want to remember these last few months as a family of three.

On Friday, Griffin and I bundled up and headed to the zoo. Not to beat a dead horse, but I'm really starting to realize that our days as a pair are numbered. I thought it would be fun to head to the zoo to just have a little time together.

When we got there, some staff were decorating the big tree in the main entrance. Griffin was absolutely thrilled. He loves any type of construction vehicle and he's especially into cranes. He is also really loving anything related to Christmas, so this was a perfect situation in his mind.

The people decorating the tree were so sweet to him and responded every time he started yelling at them. He could barely contain his excitement! We stood there for a really, really long time. I'm actually surprised we even made it past the tree, but the promise of the train and the carousel lured him in. Since the zoo was virtually empty, we were able to ride both the train and carousel several times without standing in line. It's every mother's dream to not have to stand in line with her squirmy toddler.

We were able to see a few animals before I was too cold to continue. Some pregnant women are hot all nine months. Me? I can never get warm. Ever. I really did have the best time with my sweet boy. He dictated what we did, but was also very understanding when I told him Mommy was cold and ready to go. I'm hoping we can head back this week for some more time together.

He was cracking me up when he saw that alligator above. He sat on his back for a long time and before we walked away, he carefully place a leaf in his mouth to "feed" him. Such a thoughtful young man!

Tyler caught the awful head cold that Griffin and I got over last week, so we spent a quiet Friday evening at home eating Ina Garten's easy tomato soup and grilled cheese. We hit the hay early which is one of our favorite things to do. We. Are. Old.

On Saturday, we made Pumpkin Spice Baked Donut Holes. They were so good. I had two really wonderful helpers (Kitty included, of course) and the donut holes turned out perfectly. It was a spur of the moment decision and I had everything we needed in the pantry. 

They made for a delicious Saturday morning breakfast. We gave Griffin one without the cinnamon sugar and one with the cinnamon sugar. I'll let you guess which he liked better. We have a few more leftover and I'm already looking forward to having some with my coffee tomorrow! 

After nap time, we headed out to the dollar theater to see Planes. It was Griffin's first movie! He did go to a few as an infant, but we've been waiting for something to come to the dollar theater so we could try out the movies without spending an arm and a leg. We just weren't sure how he'd do. He sat for a long time chowing down on popcorn and then ended up walking around a little bit in our area which wasn't a big deal since we were one of three small groups in the theater. 

The last two pictures here KILL me. Griffin looks drugged and yes, I did bring a towel for him to sit on at the theater. I know of one too many people who have gotten lice from movie theater seats, so I wasn't going to take any chances. Gross.

All in all, he did great. We made it through the movie, but we agreed we won't be paying full price for a movie any time soon. It's nice to know we can take him to a dollar movie every once in awhile for activity, though!

He saw Bob the Builder and Rollie before we went into the theater, so he asked quite a few times during the movie if it was done so he could go for a ride. He made a beeline for them the second the credits started rolling. All in all, it was a great trip to the movies for all three of us!

Today we headed to church where we got a great word from our pastor. We had lunch with friends after church and came home for naps, football, and a little bit of cleaning. Then we had friends over to look at some furniture we're selling them and to eat pizza. 

I didn't get a picture of the little people, but while we were eating, Griffin reached over for Lydia and said, "You're my best friend, Lydia." I could've melted into a puddle on the floor. I'm so grateful that even at the young age of two, he has such wonderful friends. God has put some amazing people in our lives and I'm so thankful.

It was a great weekend! Now it's off to meal plan for the week and try to find a dress to order for my brother in law's upcoming wedding. Bless it; I'm having trouble finding something that won't make me look like an 8 months pregnant beached whale in December. Wish me luck!

Five on Friday

I'm linking up with the girls again for Five on Friday! It's been awhile!

{ONE} 

My very favorite holiday candy is back! When I saw these at Kroger a few weeks ago, all my bitterness at Christmas coming too early flew out the window and I was filled with joy. I say these are my favorite holiday candy, but they just might be my favorite candy... period. They're the perfect blend of white chocolate and peppermint. They taste like a larger version of the smooth and melty mint candies that you sometimes see at weddings. You know what I'm talking about...

Take my advice and grab a bag of these the next time you see them. So, so delicious!

{TWO}

Our family has acquired a pet of sorts. Meet Kitty.

I am anything but a cat person. I chalk this up to the fact that I'm terribly allergic. I just don't love cats. I actually don't love dogs anymore either, but that's another topic for another day. 

Griffin has become obsessed with this cat. I'm thankful she's stuffed. Earlier this week, he was carrying around a blanket wrapped up in a ball calling it his Kitty. He wouldn't let me see it which was kind of hilarious. After a day of this, I took pity on him and picked up this tiny cat at Target. I honestly think I could've bought this for him for Christmas and nothing else and he would've been thrilled. You call it cheap, I call it smart. Tomato, tomahto.

Anyway, Kitty has been with us every second of every day since Tuesday. She eats with us (always the same bowl of Cheerios that you see above), she sleeps with Griffin, and she goes everywhere he goes. It is so precious. She is only unswaddled while she eats and if you ask Griffin what her name is, he'll tell you it's "my Kitty". He brought her to serve at church last night and kept telling her all the way there, "Let's go to church, Kitty! Let's go serve together!" I can't even handle it! Such a sweet boy. 

We'll see how Kitty continues to fare around here. Griffin tends to go in stages with certain comfort objects, but this has been my favorite. 

{THREE}

It's finally chili weather in Ohio! I have a few chili recipes I use, and although my friend Angie's husband's chili is the best homemade chili I have ever had, it takes a bit of work and isn't always practical for us on a weeknight. But as a side note, try it. It's incredible.

Erin recommended this 2 Alarm Chili kit. I saw it at Kroger and knew it would be a good chili "recipe" to try on a weeknight. It was delicious! I added a can of drained pinto beans, a can of undrained petite diced tomatoes, and a chopped onion and some garlic while the beef was browning. I left out the red pepper packet but used everything else, including the masa flour.

We really enjoyed this and I will be making it again soon. I used this recipe for cornbread (it's sweet; just how we like it!). It was quick, easy, and baked up in 20 minutes (she doesn't specify in the recipe, but I did melt the butter before I mixed it into the batter). I'm always so glad to find a tasty and filling weeknight meal. This one was a winner!

{FOUR}

I kind of slacked off and didn't finish my 31 days series. I enjoyed doing it, but I ended up getting sick at the end of the month and everything, including my blog, just went to pot. Does that happen to anyone else? Getting sick completely throws me off and everything tends to fall by the wayside for awhile. It's always hard for me to get back into the swing of things. 

All that to say, I am really glad I started thinking about and doing some things more intentionally. It really caused me to reevaluate my days and think about what needs to be accomplished vs. what I want to be accomplished. Often they're one in the same. My big project over the weekend is to tackle my overflowing closet. Tyler and I have to combine closets since Griffin is taking over the office/ guest bedroom with his big boy room. I've enjoyed having a closet virtually to myself the past four years, but times are a-changing!

{FIVE} 

Tyler We've decided not to do a whole new nursery for Bubbles. The nursery is a beautiful aqua blue and really can be gender neutral if I tweak and add a few things. Truly, I'm fine with this. We're hoping to move in the late spring/ early summer, so it just doesn't make sense to repaint the room and move everything around.

I am adding a few girly touches to the room. I've been looking for a mirror to put above her dresser and I found this gorgeous one from Pottery Barn Kids. It would definitely be the most expensive addition to her room, but doesn't every beautiful little girl need a pretty mirror? I'm hoping to find a coupon code or something of the like around Cyber Monday so I can snag this for Little Miss Bubbles. 

Have a wonderful weekend!

29 Weeks

29 Weeks

November 6, 2013- November 12, 2013

How Far Along: 29 weeks

Size of Baby: She weighs roughly 2.5 pounds and is 15 inches from head to heel. She's the size of a butternut squash which makes me want to make some butternut squash soup. I feel like I grew a ton this week! 

Total Weight Gain: After eating our way through Boston this past weekend, I am utterly terrified to step on a scale. I know I've gained though. I can see it. Look at that bump!

Maternity Clothes: I'm still wearing all maternity pants except for my yoga and sweat pants. My tops vary, but most are maternity. The sweater above is not maternity; I just sized up.

Gender: Girl!

Movement: She's still moving a lot! She likes to get her little butt all up in my right side. On Saturday, I gave it a little pat and she kicked me back so hard. She's feisty! She also kicked up a storm on both of our flights this weekend. Maybe she'll be a pilot like her Papa!

Sleep: Overall, I really can't complain. Sometimes I wake up for a while in the middle of the night, but it could be worse. I am really, really tired as the day goes on, but I think that's pretty normal. 

What I Miss: Energy and not having achy hip pain.

Cravings: I've really been craving a homemade sub sandwich. Today I got the stuff for it at the grocery store and made myself one. Don't worry; the meat was adequately heated per every pregnancy guideline. It absolutely hit the spot. I really considered having another one, but I'll just have to wait until tomorrow. 

Symptoms: Random, but I got sick today. I was afraid that my morning/ all-day sickness could be returning, but I think it was due to me not eating enough this morning. Other than that, I'm just tired, achy, and slow. All things that just come with the territory! 

Best Moment of the Week: I mentioned above that we went to Boston this weekend (I'm planning on blogging a recap next week!). We talked to Griffin on FaceTime a few times and every single time, he asked to see his baby sister. He has blown me away with how excited he is for her to come. I realize that there will be a huge adjustment period once she's born, but I can't wait to see Griffin love on his sister. I also loved when she kicked me after I patted her bottom. Sweet thing. 

28 Weeks

28 Weeks

October 30, 2013- November 5, 2013

How Far Along: 28 weeks

Size of Baby: She weighs about 2 1/4 pounds and is approximately 15 inches from head to heel. That's the size of a large eggplant, but I will tell you, it feels A LOT bigger!

Total Weight Gain: Not sure, but I'm afraid the floor is going to start shaking when I walk. Here comes Big Mama; get out the way. 

Maternity Clothes: I will be in maternity pants and leggings for months to come... even post baby. I can assure you. I'm in a mix of maternity shirts and non-maternity shirts. My biggest problem with non maternity shirts is length. 

Gender: Girl! My dad started calling her Bubbles and so Griffin has started calling her that as well. So sweet!

Movement: I've noticed that her movements have slowed down a little bit. They just don't feel as fast and jerky as they have been, but I'm sure things are getting a bit more snug in there. Slow down, sister; you still have 12 weeks to go!

Sleep: I've slept fairly well this week, but have definitely had a few lengthy sessions of being wide awake in the middle of the night. My head cold hasn't helped me in the area of sleep either. 

What I Miss: Cold medicine (still). Clear skin (still). 

Cravings: Yogurt and my morning cup of coffee. I rarely drink an entire cup, but it really helps me get going in the morning. I still crave bean burritos from Taco Bell... Every. Single. Day.

Symptoms: I've started having occasional heartburn at night when I go to bed and it is no joke. I really feel for you mamas who suffer from it your entire pregnancies. It's awful. I've also noticed that I've been so much more sore this time around. When I was pregnant with Griffin, I felt really good. I had tons of energy and felt amazing. This time? I just kind of ache all over and am constantly tired. I don't know if it's just that I'm 3 years older or that I'm caring for a toddler, but... ouch. However, I would do this for one million weeks for our girl. Totally worth it!

Best Moment of the Week: I've had this awful head cold for the better part of almost two weeks now, so we haven't been doing much. Tonight, we took advantage of a beautiful night and when Tyler got home from work, we headed to one of our favorite parks to walk. It wasn't anything out of the ordinary, but we walked, Tyler pushed Griffin on the swing, looked at the gorgeous trees, watched an amazing sunset and talked. These moments with my guys are one of my very favorite parts of life and to top it off, it's so wonderful to think that we'll have our sweet girl with us next fall! I'm so incredibly grateful. After a tiring week, it was just good to do something relaxing as a family. 

27 Weeks

27 Weeks

October 23, 2013- October 29, 2013

How Far Along: 27 weeks

Size of Baby: She weighs nearly 2 pounds and is about 14.5 inches long if her legs are extended. Baby Center compares her to a head of cauliflower. Not my favorite vegetable, but I guess I like it now!

Total Weight Gain: Still gaining, but since I don't get on my scale at home, I'm not sure how much. I'll have another appointment in a few weeks, so we'll see how many pounds I've packed on then!

Maternity Clothes: Yes. I wore the dress above to a wedding reception and loved it; it was so soft and comfortable! It's so nice not to have to wear Spanx for 9 months. I was dreading wearing maternity tights, but it really wasn't so bad! 

Gender: Girl! There's a lot of pink entering our house slowly but surely.

Movement: I still feel her every day and mostly at night. I can usually get her to move if I lie down on my side or lean back on the couch. No specific pattern of movement yet. 

Sleep: I've been sleeping like a LOG. It's been wonderful! I always wake up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom when I'm not pregnant, but I haven't even been waking up for that lately. I'm just so tired that I just pass out. You won't hear me complaining!

What I Miss: Nyquil. I had a monster cold this week and I would've done just about anything for some heavy duty cold medicine. I can't take anything with Tylenol because I'm allergic to acetaminophen. 

Cravings: Candy. I've been really into milk chocolate lately. Good thing I passed my glucose test!

Symptoms: I used to have really good bladder control. I think we should just leave it at that. 

Best Moment of the Week: My parents came into town for a few days and my mom and I tackled our attic. I'm really starting to get into the swing of nesting and thanks to her expert help, I was able to donate and consign box after box of stuff we didn't need from our attic. It was fun to dig out the baby gear and think that it will all be back in use soon! My parents also brought my brother's old bunk beds that will be going in Griffin's big boy room! I'm so excited to finish switching Griffin from his nursery to his new room to make room for his sister. 

And just for a little comparison, I'm 27 weeks with Griffin on the left and 27 weeks with Baby Girl on the right. I would say the bumps are pretty comparable!