My Life in Scotland

Randomness

2012-01-19T10:49:00.000Z

something is wrong with LD's hair?

Yeah, I practically forgot I had this blog. Sorry.

I blog several times per week over at my book blog: www.thesweetbookshelf.com

I've been so tired this year that I'm pretty sure I'm in a daze. I'm not sure what's really happening and what's not. I can't remember any of it.

I've still not made my 2012 goals. I didn't make any for 2011 because I wasn't sure what it would be like as a new mom and I didn't want to put too much pressure on myself. I need to make goals this year. For myself. I need it.

I've been dreaming about living in a warmer climate. Permanently. I am so tired of cold weather all year round.

I need my British driver's license and I need to renew my passport. I hate paperwork.

Sebastian is so much fun to be with. He's not my baby anymore though, and that makes me sad. But, we're having fun. I love his smile and laugh. I love being his mom.

LD turns 40 next week. I don't even know how to celebrate that milestone!

We're saving to go to Portugal this summer and WV for Christmas. I miss home and family.

11 Months

2012-01-18T22:01:00.001Z

Time sure is flying. Sebastian turned 11 months on January 2, 2012. My baby is getting so big!

Here's what Sebastian has been up to this past month:

Sebastian has been very sick this Christmas/New Years. He's had a chest infection, bronchiolitis, double ear infection, and a little infection in his belly button. He had a fever that spiked as high as 106.1, and a few that spiked to 105.8. We've been in and out of the hospital, and it has been a very scary time for this Mama. He seems to be on the mend right now, which is good. I just need to keep him that way!
Sebastian had his very first Christmas! He didn't know what to do with the wrapping paper. Even when we showed him, he pretty much wasn't interested. But he did play all day with his new toys and books.
Sebastian is sleeping from 7pm-7am, with 2 naps per day lasting 1:30-2hrs each.
He still only has 2 teeth and it's been hard for him to eat table foods. He is doing much better now, we're just taking it slow.
We are trying to get Seb off his bottle. He loves his sippy of water, just not a sippy of milk. It's been a challenge. Actually, he'd rather not have milk at all. Just his sippy of water. *sigh*
Sebastian loves "walking" around the flat with his walker. He is fast too! He can stand alone in a room without holding on to anything as well. He took his first 2 steps without holding on to anything on Monday January 16, 2012.
Sebastian says,"Mama, Papa", "HiYa" and "Bu-bye"
It is increasingly harder to get pictures of him. He is on the move. Even my mom mentioned while we were on the webcam that he never stops! She said,"He's a boy!"
He LOVES cars and wheels. He has so many different cars now, and he loves them all. He could play with them all day long. I can see his little brain working when he's playing with them.
It's time to plan his birthday party next month, and I don't want to. It is sad to me.

10 Months

2011-12-06T18:41:00.001Z

Ok, so I'm a bit sad Sebastian is in the double digits. He's not a baby any more, that's for sure! This post is a week late. Again. But, in my defense Sebastian has been sick. He's had snot balls hanging out of his nose and that doesn't make for very good pictures. Now he has a black eye. So much better.

Well, Sebastian is not a baby any more. He looks like a little boy. Acts like one too. He doesn't want my help doing anything. He wants to do it all himself. If I try and help he screams like a banshee. He takes after me. I'm so proud of my little independent boy!
Sebastian has literally been sick all month long. He has had an upper respiratory infection and bronchiolitis. He is actually still finishing up his anti-biotics.
Sebastian can now use his walker and he likes to walk around the living room. He has even stood up in the middle of the room without holding on to anything. He'll be walking before I know it. I'm not encouraging anything. He was so much easier when he didn't move.
Sebastian still isn't taking very many finger foods. In my defense, he's been sick for almost 2 months and wasn't eating hardly anything to begin with! So we're trying to get on the finger foods bandwagon before people start thinking my kid is slow.
He is sleeping 7:30pm-7:30am and he is taking 2 naps a day. Lasting about 1 1/2 -2 hrs, each.
Sebastian fell over and his face landed on his play piano. He has a black eye and now has red spots. He looks like a mess!
We took him to see Santa last weekend and he did great! He actually reached out for Santa. So Santa put him on his lap. Sebastian began to touch and yank on his beard. HA! But, of course for the pictures he didn't smile at all. He takes after his father there.
Sebastian is taking 3 bottles a day, 8 oz each.
He is wearing 12 month clothes.
Sebastian still only has 2 teeth. No more even showing at all.
His favorite toys are his cars and balls. He could literally play for hours with just those 2 things. He's a boy! He likes to throw the balls and then chase after them, then throw them, and go after them again.
Sebastian is learning to clap and wave bye bye!
He loves to read. He smiles so much that it brings me great joy knowing that he loves books like I do.
He needs a hair cut in the worst way, but I refuse to cut his baby hair. He will definitely not look like a baby anymore if I do. So, he's not getting a hair cut. Ever.

A Scottish Thanksgiving

2011-11-20T11:25:00.001Z

This past Friday night my friends had a Thanksgiving dinner in honor of me. They said they wanted to learn more of my culture and knew I wasn't home to celebrate with my family so they wanted to do something special. Words can't express how much that meant to me. My friend May (71 yrs old) did all the cooking, and it was great! Not really American style...but Scottish style! They also asked if they were suppose to bring presents. Ha! They really have no idea about Thanksgiving! It was a great night!
Sebastian and LD both have colds right now. Again. WHY do parents take their kids out when they are sick? They make MINE get sick. I hate that. He just has a stuffy nose and has a fever on Saturday. Not as bad as last time, but still...makes me mad. I hate to see my boys sick.
LD's brother and sis in law are coming for a visit (from Portugal) Dec 2nd for 5 days. They will meet Sebastian for the 1st time. We are pretty excited. We are going to do lots of Christmasy things too.
We are having a mild fall/winter. Here's hoping it stays! The sun has been out a lot more than normal and the temps are staying pretty neutral. I'm not complaining!
I'm trying to plan out my Christmas gifts. We have got to get out our international gifts in advance because the Royal Mail sucks big time. Plus, who knows if they will ever get to their destination?!
I'm planning on having a small family Thanksgiving dinner here. Just LD, Sebastian, and me. I really want Sebastian growing up with my American holiday's and traditions. Plus, we need to be thankful for our many blessings. Taking a day to do so is important.
I've not been sleeping well lately. I've not been reading either. I hate when I get like this. I need my sleep and I need to read to read to be sane. I need to fix this.
Sebastian is so mobile now. He is on the go all the time! He just crawls everywhere! Lately he likes to grab a basket and push it along the floor. I think of it like a scooter for his hands. Helps him go faster through the flat. Which he loves.
I'm not sleeping lately. I get to sleep just fine but then I wake up in the middle of the night and just lay there for a few hrs. I'm so tired. I need sleep in a bad way.
I pretty much freaked out when I saw The Hunger Games trailer. I can not wait!!!

9 Months

2011-11-09T15:26:00.002Z

9 Months! WHEN did this happen?!
This post is only 1 week late. I'm getting better but still not on par.

Sebastian had his first ever cold this past month. It was awful. He had a fever of 102.7F. He wouldn't eat or sleep. He'd cry for hours on end. He had a cough and runny nose. Poor thing was miserable. I think his face was the saddest thing I have ever seen in my life.
He is pulling himself up onto EVERYTHING. It is really fun to watch how mobile he actually is. I now need eyes in the back of my head. I need to babyproof even more. Everything needs to be UP. High.
Sebastian is sleeping from 7:30pm-7:30am. He is sleeping clear through. Now that I wrote that he won't do it any more. *sigh*
He takes two naps and they are about 1hr 10 min right now.
Took him swimming last week and he screamed bloody murder. The water was a bit cold, when it's usually nice and warm inside. I don't want him to not like water. He loves his bath and any other time I've taken him swimming he's loved it. Just as chill as can be. I wonder what changed?
He loves water and he loves his sippy cup. He likes water better than milk, and he will drink water from his sippy cup all day long, but he won't touch milk in his sippy cup. Don't know what to do to make the change?
Sebastian was a skunk for Halloween. My mom made his costume and he actually liked it. He played around in it during the ward Halloween Party and just had a ball. He's our little stinker!
Sebastian is wearing 12 month clothes. I need to take him in to get him weighed and check his height. He is HEAVY though! Solid.

I'm a skunk!

Top Ten Tuesday: Scottish Words

2011-11-08T08:00:00.000Z

I've been told recently how much I'm using Scottish jargon and I haven't even noticed. Does that finally make me a local? I don't know, but I thought I would share with you the most common (Top 10) Scottish words that I use. Fun right?! Here we go!

Hiya- Not to be mistaken with the karate chop. Hiya is the normal Scottish greeting. Instead of just saying Hi or Hello they say," Hiya", which is saying Hi to you! It is such a part of me now that I fear going abroad that I will be laughed at.
Blether- To blether is to chat. To have a nice visit with friends. My friends and I get together for a blether once a week!
Wee- This is not pee. It mean small. Let's get together for a wee blether!
Wean- pronounced Wayne. This mean baby. Isn't that funny?! We have a lot of weans in my ward at church!
Chuffed- Exicted or shocked. I'm chuffed that I passed my exam.
Cannae- Can't. It means can't. I don't know why they cannae say can't.
Gonnae- Gonnae no' do that=Not gonna do that.
Brilliant- This is a British thing, not just Scottish. Everything is bloody brilliant here!
Jeezo- Gee wiz! Oh my gosh! I had an embarrassing incident when someone wanted this word on a cake and I kept asking for a last name.
Rubbish- Material considered worthless or of no value or trash. I had to sift through the rubbish in the drawer. Could you take the rubbish out?
Aye-Yes! Oh aye, he did say that! (Number 11 is on LD!)

Waxing

2011-10-23T22:10:00.000+01:00

I finally got my eyebrows waxed. The amount she actually had to wax off is staggering. I'm surprised she didn't need to use a machete to get them done. But, they do look amazing! I feel so much better!!
LD and I are kind of obsessed with X Factor USA. Have you watched it yet? We have the X Factor here in the UK, and the USA version blows it out of the water! It is amazing!
Sebastian has had his first cold this week. It is actually the saddest thing I have ever seen. He had a fever of 102.7 and it freaked me out a little bit. He's just been coughing and sneezing all week. Then crying and screaming. Oh, and not sleeping. At all. Or eating. I hate this. It hurts me to know there isn't much I can do. He is on the mend now though, and he's getting better.
LD took a long weekend off and it has been so good. I love having him home and he has been working so hard for our family. It is nice when he gets some time off to rest. I wish he could have a long weekend every weekend!
I'm starting an online creative writing course tomorrow. I'm excited.
I got an early copy of Midnight in Austenland by Shannon Hale (Feb 6, 2012) and it was awesome! Have you read Austenland? If not, you need to! I was laughing so hard in parts and it was everything I was hoping for.
I've been invited to attend a Blogger's Event at Atom Publishing (they published Twilight here in the UK) November 23rd in London. The day will consist of introducing us to the books coming out in the new year, bags of free books, and an author meet and greet. Along with meeting the staff who sends me free books to review!They only invited a handful of book bloggers, and I really hope I can go!
I'm getting excited for Christmas!!

8 Months

2011-10-17T12:25:00.001+01:00

This post is literally 3 wks late. Oops. I have just not had a brain lately. So here it goes!

Sebastian you giggle like crazy! We love to watch you giggle around the house and find out what makes you happy. You have the cutest laugh.
He has had a rough month of teething. There is a tiny tiny part finally breathing through the gums, but he has a rough time of it. I can't wait until your teeth stop hurting you. You've been waking up in the night again.
You sleep from about 7pm-7am. You take two naps a day for 1:30min each.
You're afraid of the new vacuum. Daddy has helped you get over your fear and this morning when I ran the vacuum you didn't cry at all!
You are crawling everywhere! You can pull yourself up too! You love to stand and we now find you standing in your crib when you wake up in the morning.
You LOVE to eat! You are eating foods with little "bits" in them. I've tried fingers foods and you just gag. Scares me to death. I'm not sure if you're gagging because you don't have teeth yet or if the pieces are too big, or you just don't like them. I don't want to stop your progression, but I'd rather you not gag so we've stopped the fingers foods for awhile.
You said "Mama Papa" a few days ago and made your dad and I very happy! You said it just like your Papa says it! Does this mean you listen to him more than me?
You are wearing 9-12 month clothes.

My Life in Scotland

2011-10-15T13:17:00.001+01:00

It has been awhile since I have written a post about what it is like to live in Scotland. I've been here almost 4 yrs now, and it actually feels normal. I feel like I fit in now. Oh, I'm sure I'm still the odd man out and whenever anybody hears my accent they automatically want me to know they have been to Florida. It's always Florida.

Fast Facts about Scotland:

It is always cool and rainy. We can go 3 weeks without ever seeing the sky. Grey cloud always hang low. We have about 5 days of summer each year. If we're lucky. The weather will get up to about 65-70F (it's never been above 70 since I've lived here) and we won't have a cloud in the sky. It's normally cool and rainy though.
Chips=Crisps and Fries=Chips. Understand?
National drink, other than Alcohol, is Irn Bru. It's an orangy colored licorice flavored soda pop. I don't care for it, but my mother loves it. The Scots drink more Irn Bru each yr than Coke and Pepsi combined.
They are meat and potato people. They enjoy meat pies, sausage and mash, haggis, neeps, and tatties (haggis, turnips, mashed potatoes), bacon rolls, and Fish and chips. They seriously eat chips (fries) with everything.
The landscape is dotted with emerald green rolling hills, sheep, highland cows, and old cathedrals, castles, or farm houses. Even in the city you'll have gorgeous old buildings and monuments. Most historical place I've ever lived.
They love Americans. They really do! We have felt very welcome here.
Driving on the "wrong" side of the road was only a challenge for about a week. Now it is so natural I don't think I could drive in America. I've also never seen an automatic car here. Everyone drives a standard stick shift.
Most families only have 1 car, if that. Public transportation is amazing here! Seriously so good! The bus and train will take you anywhere you need to go! I love the train! Makes me feel so very Hogwarts.
Everything is smaller here. The cars, houses, and even the refrigerators. They are very big on conserving energy. We all do our part!
The accent is wild! It should basically be a foreign language. It took us a long time to understand what they were saying. Even now, sometimes, my brain has to slow down to try and catch it all. It's pretty cool though!

Check out this video for a taste of Scotland!

Losing My Mind

2011-10-09T20:50:00.002+01:00

I've just realized I've not blogged in...awhile. Sorry folks! I'm losing my mind as we speak.

Sebastian is teething. Badly. I wish those little suckers would just come through already! He's not doing too badly, but his gums look raw. I can actually see a tiny piece popping through. When he's in pain, I'm in pain and I wish I could take it all away.

It's pretty cold here already and lots of rain. Sebastian and I got caught in a rain storm a few days ago. I had his rain guard for his pram so he was fine, but me..well, I was soaked. Let's just say my rain coat isn't waterproof any longer. I was soaked to the bone. My bra was even soaked. My shoes and socks. Everything. The rain was refreshing though!

I've been reading so much lately. I just can't get enough. If a book a day can't quench my thirst, then I don't know what will.

I'm so ready for Christmas. Halloween isn't really celebrated here and neither is Thanksgiving (for obvious reasons). So, that leaves Christmas. I'm totally excited for Sebastian's first Christmas!

I've not been sleeping well lately. My back problems have been acting up and I just toss and turn all night long.

Most days my house is a mess, but I'm trying harder to keep up with it a little bit each day. I hate spending a chunk of time cleaning. It is the bane of my existence.

I'm a week late getting Sebastian 8 month stats and pictures. My brain is mush.

I don't actually have anything interesting going on in my life right now. I just thought I'd check in...

Playing Around

2011-10-07T14:40:00.000+01:00

We buy him toys and he wants to play with water bottles. I'm glad my boy has an imagination! Watch him play around, he's got a hilarious giggle!

Favorite Scripture/Devotion Studies

2011-09-16T08:00:00.000+01:00

I've been feeling for awhile that I need to do better with my scripture studies. I've just let them slack to the wayside. Not good. I feel like I am in need more than ever of the daily spirit that scripture study brings. So, I have started doing these two studies:

click picture for more info

Nestled between the covers of this beautifully illustrated book is an invitation--an invitation to come closer to Christ through a 21-day journey. Each step of the journey introduces a new concept that will help you come to know and recognize the hand of the Lord in your life. With an emphasis on daily scripture study and personal prayer, each chapter concludes with an assignement designed to help you apply and personalize concepts such as humility, gratitude, and listening to the Spirit. In the rush of everyday life, this unique book provides a refreshing pause and the opportunity to focus our efforts on becoming closer to Christ.

I love that each day is short and sweet. There are wonderful stories and scriptures to help each day. I love that there is an assignment. Each day's studies will take only 15 minutes, along with your assignment for the day. Not to mention the beautiful pictures!

*********************************************

Unconditional love is eagerly promised at weddings, but rarely practiced in real life. As a result, romantic hopes are often replaced with disappointment in the home. But it doesn’t have to stay that way.

The Love Dare, as featured in the popular movie Fireproof, is a 40-day challenge for husbands and wives to understand and practice unconditional love. Whether your marriage is hanging by a thread or healthy and strong, The Love Dare is a journey you need to take. It’s time to learn the keys to finding true intimacy and developing a dynamic marriage. Take the dare!

Well, I need this. I do. I haven't told my husband I'm doing it.

What is your favorite scripture study book or devotional?

I'm participating in Show Us Your Life over at Kelly's Korner.

Giggles

2011-09-13T08:09:00.001+01:00

Sebastian ONLY laughs and giggles with his dad. Yep, that's right. He has no giggles for me, just his daddy. Here is a cute video showing the fun they have together when LD gets home from work.

Sebastian is getting to be a pro at crawling. He hasn't gone very far, but he does like to take a few steps in all directions. It is fun for us to see him becoming mobile and finally getting to the things he wants. Yet, he did fall off the bed yesterday and scuffed his nose up. I feel awful. Every time I look at that scraped nose I feel about an inch tall. I better step up my game! Here is a video of him in action!

7 Months

2011-09-06T08:02:00.000+01:00

Each month I am surprised how fast the time has gone. Every day is new and Sebastian is just getting bigger and bigger. I love seeing him grow and learn new things, but I can't help but miss him as a little baby. I don't think I can even remember that time very well.

This is my favorite book. Mummy has to read it several times a day to me!

This month has brought so many new things! He has been a busy little boy.

Sebastian started sitting up on his own.
He is crawling backwards and forwards!
He started eating foods with little bits in it.
Sebby is drinking water from a sippy cup in the afternoons!

Sebastian is still sleeping through the night. He goes down somewhere between 6:30pm-7pm and sleeps until about 6:30-7am. This morning he slept until 7:30am! WOO HOO! He had a few days where he did wake up in the middle of the night recently. He has been teething though, poor thing, and a touch of medicine helped him get back to sleep.

Bastian takes two naps a day from 1hr 30 min- 2 hrs.

He still loves to be out and about. He loves it when we go for a walk in town or head to the library. He just loves to be out in the fresh air and seeing new things.

Sebastian is crazy over bath time. He'd stay there all night if we'd let him.
I'm just TOO cute!
I love bath time and my duckies!

He loves his Jumperoo, but prefers to be in it first thing in the morning and before bed. Other than that he loves to crawl around and play with his other toys.

Some of Sebastian's favorite toys.

STATS:
Weight: 20 lbs 7 oz
Height: 71 cm (abt 28 inches)
Clothing size: stretching his 6 month clothes. We desperately NEED to go shopping.
Milk: 8oz three times per day.
Favorite Foods: LOVES any fruit and vegetable. He is nuts over green vegi's. He is now enjoying the "meal" jars.

Some of Seb's favorite meals.

Show Us Your Favorite Blogs

2011-09-02T08:18:00.000+01:00

Well, I love blog stalking. I do. I can't help it. When I get a few minutes I love to hop on and find out what my friends are doing, as well as some people I don't know. I like to see how others live. It's kind of cool.

Here is a list of my top 5 favorite blogs. I hope you like them too!

Windtraveler- A newly wed couple sailing around the world! How cool right?! They blog often and are livin' the dream.

Alamode- It's all about design over here at alamode. She always has loads of inspiration and tips and tricks. As well and a Tuesday Turndown that I love to tune into. She lets us get a peak into someone's bedroom. LOVE all the gorgeous rooms!

The Sweet Bookshelf- Book news, reviews, and even some author interviews! My book review blog! I know I write it, but its still one of my fav's. I have a lot of fun writing book reviews! Come on over and see what I've been reading.

Life Made Lovely- Creating a joyful life. Monday mornings anyone can link up with a post of something they've made this past week that has made their life more lovely. There are craft ideas, sometimes just post to read on being grateful for life. It's about the small things. What makes your life more lovely?

Better After- The best of your before and afters. People send in their pictures of the furniture they re-purpose. It is really fun! Makes me want to go to yard sales.

I'm participating in Show Us You Life over at Kelly's Korner.

Backwards

2011-08-31T11:27:00.000+01:00

I'm teething and my mouth is very sore.

We've got a backwards crawler on our hands! Sebastian only takes a few "steps", but he's definitely doing it! I'm so proud! He sure does love being mobile. He likes that he can get places or do things on his own. He hates it when I help. He takes after me there!!

How could you resist this face?!

This happened so fast, I'm not even prepared. I've been trying to get the flat baby-proofed for the last month. I've only succeeded to the point of de-junking a bit. All that junk is now sitting in my living room waiting to either be put in the attic or taken to the charity shop. So, this week I need to really get things done! Eek!!

Here I go!

I can get up on my hands and toes and stick my bum in the air!

Emergency Preparedness

2011-08-29T00:04:00.001+01:00

Awhile back, one of my friends gave a lesson in church on Emergency Preparedness. It really got me thinking. I'm a mother now. How would I feel if a natural disaster or emergency happened and I wasn't prepared to take care of Sebastian? Especially since the Prophet has been telling us for how many decades to do just that. Be Prepared.

I set off the very next day to get my 72 hr kit made. I'm still lacking in a few items, but I hope to fix that by the end of this week. I got my list from www.ready.gov. I also need a big bag/container to keep it in.

Thursday night I went over to a friends house for a girls night and we all started talking about being prepared. Basically, that we weren't. With all the Hurricane Irene talk it got us talking. We all have children and we needed to get on the ball. My mom has a Master's degree in Safety Management and told me of 7 items that can sustain life. If I was to start a more substantial emergency supply then I should start with these 7 items. I thought I'd share them with you.

7 Items that can sustain life:

1. GRAINS- wheat, rice, corns, oats, pasta, etc.
2. MILK- instant, evaporated, powdered, condensed, etc
3. LEGUMES- beans, peas, nuts, lentils, etc
4. SUGAR- white, brown, powdered, honey, etc
5. SALT- iodized or non iodized
6. FAT- oil, shortening, butter/margarine, peanut butter, mayo, etc
7. WATER

The amount PER PERSON of each of these items for ONE week is:

1. GRAINS- 6 lbs
2. MILK- 2lbs
3. LEGUMES-1.5 lbs
4. SUGAR- 1.5 lbs
5. SALT- 5lbs for a year supply
6. FAT- 1 lb
7. WATER- 14 gallons (7 for drinking/7 for other uses)

My mom also has a ton of information and tid bits on the subject. I'm most excited about spending £5 per week for 52 week to get my 1 yr supply of food. I can't wait for mom to send me all the info she's got! I'm kind of excited!

After that horrific blizzard that caused an 18 hr traffic jam (while 7 months pregnant) last yr, I really want to be prepared.

“… if ye are prepared ye shall not fear.” [D&C 38:30]

A Little Bit of This and That

2011-08-23T19:44:00.000+01:00

I think in bullet points, so this is how my post is going to go again.

I can sit up on my own now!

I've ordered an Erin Condren Life Planner. They are a bit pricey, but it would last for a yr and a half. I really need something to get myself organized. I need help remembering things. Mom brain is in full force in my life. I feel like I've got a mushy brain. This Life Planner should help!

Baby has been a lot more mobile. Getting on his knees, rolling over so much that he bonked his head on the coffee table and fell off the bed. I'm baby proofing the flat this week. One room at a time.

I'm meeting my friend Christy in London for a night in early September. She'll be on her way from Istanbul and has a night layover in London. How could I not go and see her? She'll be so close. Well, in the same country. That constitutes as close. I'll make sure and blog the mini trip.

I've been doing some spring cleaning this past week. I have SO much more to do, but it feels good to do a clear out. I need space in our small flat and I need to baby proof. Seems a perfect time to do it.

We have a teething baby around here. Poor thing. He is a bit fussier in the day and you can just tell he is in pain. Swollen, red gums too. He has been wanting to snuggle. Which I love because he isn't a snuggler! I don't mind! We have been curling up on the couch this week watching bits of tv and playing. Even though I hate that he is in pain, I like that he needs his mama.

Girls night tonight! We haven't had one for a few weeks, and so tonight should be a lot of fun. I have made a great group of friends whom all have kids around the same age. We all put the kids to bed and head on out to someone's house and stay up until 1am joking and drinking Diet Coke. Sometimes mom's need time too. The lack of sleep for a night is totally worth it!

Burr..it's cold outside.

It is cold here. We are bundling up. I am kind for excited for fall/winter because then it's Christmas! I have to admit that I pulled my Josh Groban Christmas CD out this week. I hope Sebastian doesn't mind!!

Is he not the cutest baby EVER?!

Sebastian's first time in a high chair! He loved the restaurant too!

Mom's on Call

2011-08-22T14:46:00.001+01:00

So, it's no secret that motherhood is hard. It has been especially hard for me. We all want what's best for our kids, but most of the time I'm unsure of what exactly that is.

I heard about Mom's on Call from a blog I follow, Blue Eyed Bride. I wasn't gonna try it. I had no interest until Sebastian started waking in the night again. Well, he never really stopped. I think we had two weeks where he did really well but other than that I was getting up multiple times per night to put his pacifier back in. I was exhausted. Then Sebastian started his 45 min nap thing again. I wanted to pull my hair out. I was so tired I couldn't see straight. So, I tried Mom's on Call.

There are different seminar's for different ages. I took the 3-12 month Seminar. It changed my life. It was SO simple too. WHY wasn't I already doing this? To tell you the truth, we already were doing most of it, but we just had to tweak a few things. There wasn't anything hard about it. Just commitment on my part to stay consistent.

Sebastian's routine is SO good now. He sleeps 12.5 hrs each night (without any interference from us) and he takes two 2 hr naps each day. Hallelujah! Shout praises to God! I'm actually showering daily now.

The seminar is on sale right now for $29.95 (was $59.95). I'd pay hundred's for what I learned and how it changed our life.

Mom's on call isn't for everyone. There is some cry it out. Did we do it? Yes. Was I comfortable with that? No. That's why we did the Baby Whisperer's Pick Up/Put Down technique before, which worked well. So, we did that again to get him off of his dream feed at 11pm and then after a few days when we knew he wasn't expecting to be fed we did the cry it out method with Mom's on Call. Here's how it went.

1st night: cried for 20 min (about 2am)
2nd night: cried for 15 min (about 3am)
3rd night-present: Sleeps through the night with no intervention.

I feel like you should do what's right for you're family. This was right for ours, even if I didn't feel like it at first. It was one of the hard parts of being a mom. Knowing there were things I couldn't teach my son, and that he had to learn for himself. My son isn't afraid to go to sleep on his own, play on his own, or sleep through the night. He knows I'm going to be there, he knows he is safe to play by himself and that I'll be there when he wakes up in the morning. I think all of those things helped us with the cry it out. This is what worked for us.

Thanks Mom's on Call!

There is a giveaway on Blue Eyed Bride for three seminars right now! That's 3 mom's who get the help! Lucky ladies!

So, that's what we've been up too these past few weeks. Mom's on Call!!!

6 Months!

2011-08-06T14:56:00.001+01:00

HOW did we get to 6 months?! Half a year? How is that possible?

Here are some facts about Sebastian.

We had been toying around with your solids. Introducing them slowly but this week we started you on breakfast, lunch, and dinner. You LOVE it! You always suck the spoon and smack your lips when you're eating fruit. You love fruit! You hate carrots. You gagged.
You're bedtime is 7pm but lately you've been wanting to go down around 6-6:30pm and you sleep until 6:30am. I feed you, then put you back down and you'll sleep until 8:30am. But this morning I decided to see if you'd go back to sleep on your own. When I heard you waking up at 6am, I left you alone and you were back to sleep in 10 min and slept until 8am! WOO HOO! LET'S KEEP THAT UP BUDDY.
You were taking an hour and a half morning nap and a 45-1hr 30 min afternoon nap. But this week I don't know what you're doing. You've taken two 30 min naps for 3 days. Then yesterday you're taking a 3 hr afternoon nap. But today you're back on your routine.
You are fitting snugly in your 6 month clothes. Your dad and I need to go shopping.
You growl. Everyday you see if you can go lower and louder. Then you scream at the top of your lungs. I think you're finding your voice and seeing what it can do. We love it! You're so cute and your Abuelo and Abuela are nuts about it!
You have started noticing your buddy Mason from church. He is 3.5 wks older than you and this week you were holding hands. It was SO cute. You were growling at Mason and he was laughing hysterically at you! Mason's mom and I were crying we were laughing so hard. I hope you'll both always be friends.
Your chosen mode of transportation is rolling. I'll lay you down and turn around and when I get back around you are across the room. You are working extra hard at pushing your knees up and you should have a set of 6 pack abs the amount of crunches you're doing so you can sit up. You'll get there.
You really LOVE your Sesame Street books. You smile so big and you want to put each page in your mouth. One of the books rattle, so you hit the pages with your hands to make the noise. We have to read it to you several times per day. We like it too!
Daddy has taken over bath duty and well, you've been kind of dirty. I need to have a talk with your dad about this. You'll need a good scrub down tonight. By me.

Clark Kent Who??

STATS

Weight: 19lbs 3oz
Height: 67 cm
Diaper size: 4
Clothing size: 6 months, but we desperately need to go shopping.
Food: 2-3 TBSP solids 3 times per day

Milk: 7-8oz milk 4 times per day

New Toys

2011-07-25T09:45:00.000+01:00

We have been doing pretty well lately. Sebastian is really a lot of fun. He has the cutest personality and we love spending time with him. Last night he was laughing in his sleep. Ha! What a cutie.

Sebastian is sleeping from 7pm-7am. Hallelujah! Finally! His morning nap is 1 hr 30 min and any other naps are 40 min. It's progress people. I'm so happy. Now if only I could get more sleep and feel not so exhausted all the time.

Summer is over in Scotland. Wait, did we ever have one? We had a few nice days, other than that we never stopped wearing sweaters. The wind now has a chill to it though. Fall starting in July. Only in Scotland!

Our washing machine broke a week ago. The repair man said that the last time he saw a machine like ours was 25 yrs ago. Hmm... It took a whole week of me calling the landlord every single day, multiple times, to finally get a new one. I'm SO happy to finally have a nice machine! It doesn't sound like a jet plane leaving either.

I bought myself a Kindle, and I LOVE it! I can't even express how much. I just love how easy it is to get a book in the middle of the night. I love the screen! It looks just like a paperback page! I'm enamored. It is such a cool device!! I've downloaded WAY too many books this month. Now it is time to read them, before I go on a book shopping spree again.

I have a huge list of things to do and I'm not looking forward to it. I just don't have the time for admin type stuff these days but it has to be done. I need to: renew my passport, get the baby a passport, register baby in America, Portugal, and Venezuela, get British drivers license, get teeth cleaned, dr apt for me, dr apt for baby, plan a trip to Portugal, London, and WV, make a budget, send in resignation letter, baby-proof the flat, put old baby clothes and toys in attic, get professional family photo taken, and order a vacuum filter. Oh and finally change my name. Yes, I have been married 3.5 yrs and still not changed my name.

I've woken up early a few days to work out. It feels good. I need to lose this weight. I don't even recognize myself in the mirror anymore. I even feel like my eyes are fat. I look and feel old. I want to feel vibrant and energized when Sebastian starts crawling and walking. I want to keep up with him. Not to mention I'd like to fit into some reasonable clothes. My sweatpants don't really make me feel so great.

We got Sebastian a Jumperoo. He LOVES it! He just will bounce all day if I'd let him! I think he likes having more control over what he's doing. We usually stick him in it in the mornings while we are getting our showers and such. Makes it easier for us! We love it too! There is a video below of him in action.

Sebastian has been trying and trying to sit up on his own. Whenever I change his diaper or after his bath he just tries and tries to sit up. He'll make himself red in the face he's trying so hard! He is getting further and further upright everyday. Here's a video!

Rolling Over

2011-07-11T11:00:00.005+01:00

On the day I wrote his 5 month post I mentioned he had only rolled over once and never again. Well, that same day he couldn't stop rolling over! In his crib, on the floor, on my lap, on our bed, everywhere! He is a rolling over machine!!

Watch him in action!

Tall Ships Races 2011

2011-07-10T12:38:00.000+01:00

Last week LD text me from work asking me to google Tall Ships Races 2011. He had been seeing signs for it while he was out working, and wanted me to see what it was exactly. I googled it and text him back a link for him to check out on his iPhone. That night we talked about it and wanted to head out and see what all the fuss was about. We were pretty excited to go actually. We love going to events like these and seeing what Scotland has to offer.

We knew this was going to be huge. Should we take the train? Or pay for parking in Greenock? LD use to live in Greenock before we got married, and so we decided to go ahead and pay the £15
(abt $25) for parking for the day. It was well worth it! We prepared early and got a spot right up front by entrance to the whole event.

You could see these amazing ships for miles. They had about 50+ ships there racing. All parked for us to see and some we could even go on board. I was all about that! These ships/crew came from all around the world. Our favorite ships came from Russia and Columbia. Gorgeous vessels. It made me really miss my days working on cruise lines. I loved being on the sea stepping on board I felt a sense of "home". This was actually my very first time ever being on a sail boat though. I was enamored with all the sails and ropes. It must be hard work sailing a 20+ sails ship!

There couldn't have been a better day for this event. The sun had come out and was shining bright. So, not only were people there for this event, but when nice weather comes the Scots are always out in it. We just don't know when we'll get another nice day. It was about 68 degrees. The crowds were huge, and sometimes a bit hard to navigate with a stroller, but we did just fine. We set the stroller up a different way so Sebastian could see out. He just loves being out. No matter what we're doing he loves it. He was great all day long. At one point really making lots of noise! Showing everyone how much fun he was really having. It was really cute!

In addition to all the ships to see, there was plenty of fair food. Not to be confused with American fair food. Not a funnel cake in sight. Scottish fair food consists of sausages, real Highland cow burgers, Scottish fudge, Haggis, neeps & tatties and plenty of alcohol. Pretty much a carnivorous heaven. LD tried a burger and I had some yummy sausage.

Scottish fudge-it's delicious!

There was also an arts & crafts fair. Local artists brought their handmade silver jewelry, jams & chutneys, cheese, books, music, and handmade fabrics. I didn't buy anything, but now I wish I had. There were so many people we just made a quick sweep through the place.

Ice cream trucks were found about every few blocks, I made sure to grab me some. They had carnival rides and entertainment too! We saw some highland dancers, as well as many different musical groups.

The ships are here for 4 days, and we enjoyed ourselves so much we would like to go back before they leave to continue on in the race.

I'd like to see them all sail away. What a sight that would be. All their sails blowing in the wind leaving Greenock for the Shetland Islands.

5 Months

2011-07-05T10:43:00.000+01:00

I can't believe he is 5 months already!

Well time is flying by so fast I just don't know what to do with myself. Sebastian has gotten so big that he actually feel "thick". My baby boy is growing up and I just don't know how I feel about that.

I haven't had him weighed but I am guessing he is around 19-20 lbs. Seeing as last time I had him weighed he was over 17 lbs. He is getting heavy!!

He has only rolled over the one time, and never again. He pushes his bum up and moves his legs like crazy, but no dice. He is seriously mobile in bed though and when I go in to check on him he is sleeping 90-180 degrees the opposite way I left him.

We started him on solids on Friday night (his 5 month birthday). I was really hoping to hold out until 6 months, even 5.5 months, but he was ravaging his milk and it was getting a bit crazy. So we went ahead with it. He has done great these past few days. I wish we had gotten a video or even a picture of his first bites, it was hilarious!! He has kept it all in and he swallows great! He has slept through the night twice. He is unsure about food, but he likes it after a few bites. He is actually grabbing for the spoon to do it himself. I let him help guide me. I have given him a spoon to play with so he gets use to the feel of it.

He no longer fits in his bouncer, it is such a sad time. Luis still tries to put him in it because he likes it so much, but he just doesn't fit anymore. He actually is trying to sit up in it and it just doesn't work. So I'll be putting it in the attic.

His naps are ironing out just a bit. He takes a 1hr 30min nap once per day and any other nap(s) are still only 45 min.

We think he is teething right now. I say think because we have never gone through this before, and are not quite sure what to look for. Despite reading everything I can on it...I'm still unsure. He does have a few "bumps" (?) inside his mouth on top of his two front teeth and also one along the side. He is extra fussy, and is drooling like a crazy person. He will go through 6 bibs in a day. Soaked through. All drool. He is obsessed with the vibrating teething ring, and he goes into some kind of trance when we give it to him. He has flushed cheeks, and he has had quite the diaper rash! He isn't a diaper rash kind of a baby either.

I just can't believe how time is flying. I'm already missing my baby, but I am also excited about him getting bigger and learning new things. Lets just hope he adds rolling over to that getting bigger thing.


he had a little melt down during our little photo shoot

My happy boy. I love his smile.

A Day in the Life: Thursday

2011-07-01T11:20:00.000+01:00

I never did go back to sleep when Sebastian woke up in the night. So, I had 1hr 45min of sleep to get me through the day. Yikes. I felt like a bus had run over me. I was sick with a cold, and tired from not sleeping for the last 3 weeks. But alas, the day must go on.

Sebastian and I played for a bit then I put him down for his nap around 9am. I then took a shower and got packed up to go to the church for a day of Primary fun. When Sebastian woke at 10:30am I fed him, talked to my mom on the phone (she is on a cross country road trip to see my sister Becca!) then we left the house around 11:30am.

I was a gorgeous day! We set off walking to the church and the sun was shining, I got to take my jacket off, just beautiful. 10 min later, the wind was blowing fiercely and clouds covered the sky, and it began to sprinkle. Give it 10 min and the slue skies showed their face again and it was nice and warm with a cool breeze all the way to the church.

Once we got to the church the activity was in full swing. We grabbed a place on the floor with Sebastian's friend Mason and his mom. Mason is one month older then my Sebby. They cooed and stared at each other a lot. Ha! I just know they are going to best friends. It was fun talking to the mom's there. We talked about books, movies, kids, sleeping, and all manner of mommy things.

When the activity was over around 2:30pm we set off for home, but Mason's mom Gillian was walking too with her 3 kids, so we all walked home together. We stopped at the grocery store and chatted for another hour! Ha! I guess I really needed some adult conversation. We got home just before 5pm. LD was just getting home when we were. I was sick, sick, sick. So, LD let me take a nap for an hour before we got Sebastian fed, bathed and into bed. I was so glad he was asleep by 7pm.

I then hopped into bed and curled up with my book City of Ashes by Cassandra Clare (yes I finished City of Bones, and I started City of Ashes in the middle of last night), I was almost finished with it. LD was getting sick too, so he just picked up some KFC. I noticed I didn't eat breakfast or lunch again. We ate and went to sleep (well I tried). I fell asleep maybe around midnight. The baby woke around 3am, 4am, and 5am. He was moving himself in circles and I could tell it was frustrating him! Each time I went in he was in a completely new spot in the crib. Poor thing. I didn't end up getting back to sleep.

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There you have it. Those are the kinds of things we do around here. We usually go swimming on Tuesday's, the library on Wednesday's, and the church for an activity every Thursday. I was invited out with friends this week also but didn't end up going because I was so sick and tired. It was probably boring to all of you, but I would like to remember what it is that we did when Sebastian was a baby. Now if all of you could do a day in the life, then I would be able to see if I'm doing this parenting thing wrong, that would be a big help! Ha ha! Thanks for reading!

A Day in the Life: Wednesday

2011-06-30T08:30:00.000+01:00

I didn't end up going back to sleep when Sebastian woke at 4am, so when he woke at 6am I fed him but then I put him back down to sleep when he was finished. Whenever he wakes at 6am, he is tired all day and is just off, so I thought I would try this. He went back to sleep until 8:30am! Woo hoo! Maybe my little guy just needs some more sleep. I will start trying that more often! I went back to sleep when he did. This helped me get through the morning for sure.

When he got up Luis is already gone for work, another early day, and so Sebastian and I play in his Bumbo seat with some toys and work on holding different sizes of toys and trying to get a hold of them. We snuggle and play on the couch too. Then I feed him and get him down for a nap by 10:30am.

I get a shower and I fold some laundry and do the dishes. Sebastian is still sleeping, and I just can't believe it! I need to write a list of items to get at the store, when he wakes up, but instead I sit down and read and put my feet up. *sigh*

It starts raining cats and dogs. Just great. I had a day planned outside shopping, going to the library, and the post office. I walk everywhere remember, so I could put on the rain guard to his pram and I could wear my rain jacket, but who really wants to do that? So we stay home. We play, sing songs, read books, and watch TV.

He goes down for another nap at 2pm and I curl up on the couch with some medicine. I've got such a sore throat and my nose is running. I go in and out of sleep for the 45 min nap that Sebastian takes.

I've done some laundry but haven't folded it yet, but I think I'll ask LD to do that... ;)

We play some more and work on rolling over. He isn't interested. But we're working on it. LD comes home and starts playing with Sebastian so I grab my book and start reading and then guess what? HE ROLLS OVER! AHHH!! I missed it! He did it for his dad! Motherhood is a thankless job....

We get him fed, bathed, and changed. Then we read some books to our little man, and I sing to him and rock him for a bit. Then we lay him down to sleep around 7:30pm. A little late today. I'm sluggish since I'm feeling sick.

I'm sitting on the couch blogging our day. I've defrosted chicken, but don't know what I'm going to do with it. Actually I'm too tired to cook or too tired to eat. I just realized that I haven't eaten a thing all day. This is typical. I don't eat breakfast or lunch all the time. I forget. I'm going to curl up in bed and read, and maybe LD will make dinner.

Today has been a "boring" day, and I had grand plans of such fun! Oh well. Nothing I can do about it now. I hope I don't get sick although I think I already am....

I hop into bed about 7:45pm and read. Next thing I know LD was bringing in my dinner. How sweet! He made a yummy mustard chicken, leftover rice, and broccoli. It was de-lish!!

I just kept reading in bed and sniffing. LD fed the baby at 11pm, and got into bed shortly thereafter. I was still up. Finished the book, but couldn't sleep. Typical. It is almost 1am and I am blogging our day, while having an upset stomach. I am really getting sick now.

I probably fell asleep around 1:30am but then woke at 2:45am with the baby crying. I never did go back to sleep.

A Day in the Life: Tuesday

2011-06-29T09:40:00.000+01:00

After being up all night, when Sebastian woke at 6:30am LD went to get him, feed him, and play with him so I could sleep. He let me sleep until 9am. We then both got showers and got ready for the day. LD left for work around 10am.

I fed and put Sebastian down for his nap about 10:30 am. A bit early. I had cheesecake for breakfast (I am sensing a trend here) then I looked up directions to a lesson I was going to with the missionaries. I walk everywhere now, so I needed to make sure I knew where I was going (and I didn't). Even with the map. But I remembered I have a gps on my blackberry so all is well! I got ourselves packed up for a long afternoon and since Sebastian was still sleeping (I can't believe it) I read a little bit.

see how sunny it is?! Hooray!

The minute he wakes up I change his diaper and put him in the stroller and we go walking to meet the missionaries for a lesson. I had no idea where I was going, but the GPS on my blackberry got me there safe and sound. It took me about 30 min to walk there. The lesson was great and it was good to see Pamela again. We made a plan to meet up for a walk on Thursday morning.

After the lesson we had planned on going swimming (indoors, there are no outdoor pools in Scotland). But it was so nice out we walked into town and grabbed some lunch and enjoyed the sunshine. LOVED it!

I LOVE Gregg's! I should have gotten something sweet instead of just a sandwich.

We did some playing when we got home and finally Sebastian took a tiny nap of 40 min. Luis then got home at 6pm and we fed Sebastian, bathed him and got him into bed by 7pm.

I am so tired I can barely stand up, and my throat is beginning to hurt. Oh great, just what I need. Baby is screaming a bit, which is totally new at bed time. I hope this isn't a reoccurring thing because I don't like it. He is finally asleep at 7:30pm.

Once he is asleep I start making dinner. Meatballs, rice, and peas. I was trying to get rid of some stuff in the fridge. But it was actually pretty good. Then we just sit and watch a movie while I write a review for my book blog and wrote a letter to a missionary friend.

I hop into bed and do some reading before feeding Sebastian at 11pm. Then I read a bit more and fall asleep by midnight. Sebastian woke at 4am screaming, I went in and touched his cheek and he fell right back to sleep. But I was awake and I didn't go back to sleep.

A Day in the Life: Monday

2011-06-28T09:53:00.000+01:00

Sebastian woke at 6am. I fed him and play with him on the couch until 7am when LD needed to wake for work. He has to go in early today.

When LD gets out of the shower I decide to hop in myself. If I don't get a shower now, I never will. I take a 5 min shower and throw some workout clothes on. Even though I have no intention of working out. Sebastian is hanging out on our bed while we get ready for the day.

Sebastian goes down for a nap at 7:30am. He tends to be more tired the days he wakes at 6am instead of 7-30am. So he seems to go down for his naps earlier and generally is "off" all day. When he falls asleep LD leaves for work and I head to the couch, I need to lay down or I'm going to die. Sebastian sleeps for 45 min and I sleep for maybe 15 min.

Sebastian and I played on the floor with his toys while we watch Oprah. It was a Christmas re-run and now I can't stop thinking about the holiday's. He eats at 10am and falls asleep eating. I hate it when he does that. I don't want him associating sleeping and eating together. I put him in his crib and I hear him wake 45 minutes later. I decided to leave him in hopes he will sleep a bit longer, and he puts himself back to sleep (Hallelujah)!!

While he is sleeping I am blogging, checking my emails, facebook, and watching some television. I had a piece of cheesecake for breakfast. I need to clean the house, but I will try and do that a bit later. I'm exhausted!!!!

Sebastian wakes at 11:50am from his nap! Hooray!!!! Great job little one! I've barely got the living room clean though.

We put on a nursery rhyme CD while we play on the floor and I clean the living room and his bedroom. We get some snuggle time together and I feed him at 1:30pm. He didn't need fed until 2pm but I wanted to break the falling asleep while eating thing, and he was due a nap at 2pm. He went down for his nap at 2pm and fell asleep a few minutes later.

While he is napping I ate some lunch, a salad. Don't be too proud, it was full of creamy dressing and more croutons than I really need and not too many vegi's. I got the bathroom, kitchen, and some laundry done! Sebastian napped for 1 hr 45min! Woo hoo! Let's hope he keeps this up instead of those awful 45 min naps!

We play in his room with a DVD on and some toys. He pooped so much that it got on my pants. Of course....

LD gets home about 5:30pm and I immediately hand Sebastian off to him. I do some more laundry and start cleaning the bedroom. We get Sebastian fed and in the bath tub and in bed by 6:45pm. He is screaming his head off. It doesn't stop until about 7:15pm. We were in and out of his bedroom a million times. He doesn't usually cry at bedtime, so it was wearing on my patience, especially since I was tired.

Once he finally fell asleep I finished the bedroom and folded laundry. Once I finished those, I started dinner. Black Bean Enchiladas. We sit and eat in the living room. I'm not so good about eating at the table. I'd like to be though. We sit and eat about 8pm.

8:30pm I am folding laundry and putting another load in.

9:30pm in bed reading and I took a sleeping pill.

11:30pm I'm still not asleep and the baby has woken screaming his lungs out every single hour (8pm,9pm,10pm,11pm, 1:30am, 2:30, 3:15, 4:15, 5am). We think we've got a teething baby on our hands!

A Day in the Life: Sunday

2011-06-27T11:48:00.000+01:00

I'll be showing you "a day in the life" all week. It will probably be incredibly boring to all of you but, I thought it would make a nice memory for me to remember these baby days 10 years down the road. I've lost so many brain cells, I can barely remember what I did last week, so it will be fun to look back and say "So that's how we spent our days?"

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Sunday's are always a bit hectic for us. Sebastian never eats or naps well, and so it makes for a long exhausting day. Sebastian woke up at 7am and Luis and I both got up. We got him fed and changed into his church clothes so that when he woke from his nap we just had to put him in the car seat and try and get to church on time.

Luis played with Sebastian while I put the finishing touches on my lesson for Relief Society and took a shower. Sebastian went down for his nap at 9am.

That's when Luis and I ran like mad men to get ready for church. Not only did church start at 10am, but Sebastian only sleeps for 45 min at a time. So, we had 45 minutes to get ready. We did it! The house was a mess when we left for church, but we made it. Just as Sebastian was waking up we put him in the car seat and off we went.

Church starts at 10am and we have Relief Society/Priesthood first. Luis took Sebastian in class with him so I could teach my lesson. As I began I could hear Sebastian screaming. He hates it when the men sing. Seriously. He pretty much can't handle being in there with all of them. He is quiet as a mouse when he comes to class with me! He screams bloody murder when he is with them. I wouldn't blame him. My class went well and we had a great time.

11am I left Sunday School to go feed Sebastian and ended up talking in the foyer with some of the other sisters instead of returning to class. Oops. It is nice to visit though! Sebastian was happily cooing on my lap and looking all around. He was yawning heavily, but he won't sleep at church. I was happy he wasn't screaming though.

12pm I moved all our stuff into sacrament meeting and we sat down. I asked Luis to hold Sebastian and do "his move" hoping Seb would sleep for a few minutes at least. He was very tired. Luis stood in the back and rocked our little guy across his arm on his belly. I know that doesn't make sense. I should have taken a picture. Sebastian fell asleep! Hallelujah! Praise The Lord!! Even the bishop was smiling at us and almost started laughing because he saw how happy we were that he fell asleep and we could enjoy some of the meeting. It didn't last long though, he slept for 15 min. But hey, it's progress!!!!

Church ended at 1pm and we did some visiting and Luis had to go work on some paper work and do the tithing. He is the Ward Clerk. I had asked LD to take us home since we live very close then he could come back and do all of that, but he said he would only be 15 min. Where have I heard that before?! We left at 2:30pm. We sat and visited with others until we were the last ones there. Finally we went home.

Sebastian fell asleep on the drive home, and we put him in his crib when we got home. He awoke at 3pm. This is typical. Our guy is a chronic short napper, and on Sunday's his naps are even shorter due to being over stimulated.

During that short 30 min, LD and I changed and made some lunch. Lasagna, garlic bread and Caesar salad. Easy peasy! When little Bastian woke up we all ate lunch.

LD promised me a nap. You see, he keeps getting these long stretches of sleep 10 hrs, 12 hr, 14 hrs. Yes, that much. Yet, I get 3 hrs here and there during the night. I haven't slept in 3 weeks. I am so exhausted I think I am going crazy. I'm seeing things and last week I was actually shaking when LD left for work because I was so tired. I slept for 1 hr 45 min before the baby was screaming bloody murder.

LD was trying to put him down for a nap at 6:15pm. This is traditionally bath time. He knew it was bath time not sleep time. He will let us know. So, I woke up and helped give Sebastian a bath. Sebastian loves bath time!! He has a rubber ducky and this is his "me" time. He gets really relaxed. He has a great time. We get him out of the bath and we are pretty good at our routine here. We do it like clock work. LD gets him all dry and lotioned up and I get the pj's out and his toys put away and make sure his room is clean before bedtime. Then we feed him, read him stories and sing songs. Then we put him to bed. He usually falls asleep by 7pm. Then the evening is ours!

I made a quiche and I don't remember what LD ate. We fend for ourselves on Sunday nights. We talked to family on the phone and watched a bit of television along with being on our laptops. I went to bed to read about 9pm. I'm reading City of Bones by Cassandra Clare. Becca has been recommending it for the longest time. I'm enjoying it!

11pm Luis feeds Sebastian his last feed of the night. I am usually still awake because I can never fall asleep. Luis is in bed by 11:30pm and I am still awake until midnight.

3:30am comes and Sebastian wakes screaming. I go into see if he is alright and he falls asleep in a few minutes, but I am awake now. I try to put myself back to sleep and finally get there somewhere around 5:30am. Sebastian wakes for the day at 6am.

****************************************************

There you have it. Sorry no pictures. I completely forgot! Those missing brain cells you know. I promise to take pictures to go along with our day's the rest of the week.

Early Mornings and other stuff

2011-06-25T12:52:00.000+01:00

this is what 3:30am looks like in Scotland. Bright isn't it?! It gets dark around 11pm. Yes, we are that far north.

I read a fantastic book last week! Divergent by Veronica Roth. It is a super dystopian fiction! If you enjoyed The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins or Matched by Allie Condie then this is up your alley!

Sebastian is getting very vocal! LD says that he definitely takes after me there. He won't stop cooing and well...pretty much letting out happy screams all day long. It is cute, but one day I actuakky thought I needed ear plugs while playing with him. He sure is a loud little guy!

Seb is still not rolling over. He lays on his side while he plays but just won't go the rest of the way. He will push his little bottom in the air and move his little legs, but alas...NO ROLLING OVER! AH! It is OK though, I know he is just around the corner from this next milestone.

I bought Sebastian the cutest pair of baby speedos! Ha! Very European and he looks super cute in them!

The weather still is cold and rainy. I have given up hope that the sun will shine this summer. Most of the Scots have told me I should have given up hope long ago! I had the heat on earlier and I wore a sweater yesterday while we were out. Typical.

Sebastian and I had some fun this morning! Doesn't he look adorable in a mustache?! Ha!

Pick Up Put Down

2011-06-21T11:37:00.002+01:00

So, we've been doing some sleep training around here. When we stopped feeding Sebastian in the middle of the night, we just switched it out for his pacifier. He still woke around 3am-4am every night, we would just throw that Binky in his mouth and he'd go back to sleep.

Well, I've grown tired of that. Sebastian was most recently up 6 times wanting that dumb Binky thrown back into his mouth so he could sleep. I've actually never had a full nights sleep since he was born. I was ready. Boy was I ready.

I really have enjoyed the book The Baby Whisperer by Tracey Hogg. Honestly, she has shed light on so much for us. There hasn't been a thing we have tried of hers that hasn't worked. I think she is amazing. So, I looked up what to do in this situation. She has a method called pick up/ put down.

P.U./P.D. (pick up/put down) is a strategy that she states is the "cornerstone of her middle-of-the-road philosophy" because "your child is neither dependent on you or some kind of prop for going to sleep, nor is he abandoned." (TBW Solves All Your Problems, pg. 221). This strategy is used after implementing a good routine. It is only to be used in children 3-4 months or older, although it may be too stimulating for some babies until 6 months of age. It is generally used up to a year, although you can do it with an older baby too.

When to use it:
*Short naps
*"Refuses" to nap
*Early Morning Wakening (when they are due to something mom and dad have done like taking their child into their bed each morning rather than a child's sleep rhythms)
*Night Time Wakening (besides possibly one at this age to eat)
*Child is unable to put himself to sleep without outside assistance (ie: rocking or using a prop like a pacifier)
*Help establish or extend a routine

How to use it:
When your child cries go into him and offer 1)comforting words (or maybe even a song) while 2) placing your hand on his back. If he is under 6 months of age, you can also do shush-pat (which we had done previously to get him use to his crib). If you are unable to comfort your baby in his crib after a short period of time then 3) pick him up. The moment he stops crying say your sleepy phrase ("time to go to sleep" etc), place him back down in his crib and put your hand on his back and offer words of comfort. If he starts to cry again (which he probably will do) then pick him back up again and repeat the process as necessary. As soon as he falls into a deep sleep remove your hand from his back and leave the room. Over time you will want to remove your hand sooner so the pressure of your hand doesn't become a sleep prop. Instead of keeping your hand on baby until he falls into a deep sleep, you may also want to try removing your hands from baby when he starts to settle to sleep and take a step back and see if he can put himself to sleep the rest of the way. You can gradually move farther from the crib during this stage (either during the first attempt or over days) until you are out the door.

My experience:
We tried this on Sunday night. Sebastian awoke at 9:30pm, which he never ever has done. I decided there was not a better time to do it than when I was fully coherent. It took 40 minutes if picking up and putting down. After the first 20 minutes though I saw a huge difference. He was quieting down, and relaxing his body into me. I had to put him down though, but he soon put himself to sleep. WITHOUT HIS PACIFIER! I knew he would wake at about 3-4am but I was ready and knew it would go better this time. When he woke around 3am I could tell he was trying to put himself back to sleep on his own (he wasn't crying). I was excited that he was already trying to do it himself. He did go back to sleep but then awoke at 4:15am crying. So I went into his room and started PU/PD. It only took 15 minutes! YES!!!! I was ecstatic! This was going to work! Last night he slept through the night. He woke at 6:15am ready to eat. I just can't believe it! Way to go Sebastian! No binky needed! There are no words. We will see how tonight goes, but I just know that he is going to sleep through again. He has done fantastic and I couldn't be happier!!

If you want to try pick up/put down and want some help, let me know!

Pinterest Addiction

2011-06-19T11:00:00.003+01:00

I have a new addiction. Pinterest. Don't know what it is? I didn't either until last week. Let me tell you. But, proceed at your own risk. You too may become an addict.

Do you bookmark a million different pages and websites for future reference? Do you find DIY projects, recipes, or clothing you'd like to come back to at some point and actually buy, make, or enjoy? Pinterest is a place for you to catalog the things you love. But it is SO much more! It is all public, so you get to see what other people are finding. What is their inspiration? What are they cooking or DIY-ing?! I'm hooked! I've found SO much I want to do in our flat and yummy new recipes to try.

Come and see a few things I have Pinned!

Come on over and check out my Pinterest!
Let me know if you want me to send you an invite so you can start cataloging the things you love too!

Cupcake Decorating Classes

2011-06-18T11:00:00.001+01:00

Last Saturday I taught two cupcake decorating classes for my church in Glasgow. We were having a ladies day full of food, socializing, fun, with loads of classes to learn new tips and tricks. I was the only person who taught two classes, and I was the only person who had both my classes fully booked! These sisters really wanted to learn how to decorate cupcakes!

Here in Scotland people don't usually bake their own birthday cakes, pies, cookies, etc. They just go buy them at the store. Those aren't even baked at the store bakery either. They are prepackaged cakes with fondant. No buttercream. Something like this:


Asda cake sold at my local shop

Growing up I always had a home baked birthday cake. My mom taught us all how to use an icing bag. We may not be professional (although my sister Katie is pretty darn close) we can make a decent cake and decorate it too. So, I was going to teach these ladies how to do the same.

We first talked about ways to decorate cupcakes without using an actual icing bag. What would be easy to make the cupcakes more appealing or festive. Here are the ideas:

Use Sprinkles
Decorate with candy (big or small)
Garnish with fruit
Make an impression with stencils
Top with toys or figurines
Customize with food coloring
Adorn with edible flowers
Dress it up with decorative liners or sleeves
Achieve professional quality frosting
Use a simple glaze

We talked about basic decorating supplies you'll need to ice your cupcakes/cakes:

Icing Spatula
Writing Tip (#3)
Star Tip (#30)
Leaf Tip (#352)
Re-usable Icing Bag
Paste food coloring

No one had heard of paste or gel food coloring and they had no idea why we would need it to color icing. I thought it was common knowledge that when you add a liquid to anything it would change the consistency of it. They were quite enthralled by this basic law of physics.

I shared my two favorite icing recipes:

6 sticks of butter

9 cups icing sugar (powdered sugar)

1 1/4 tsp Vanilla

4 cups icing sugar (powdered sugar)

1/4 cup milk

1 tsp Vanilla

3/4 Cup Crisco (Vegetable Shortening)

The whole class was appalled at using vegetable shortening to make icing with. You see, they fry their chips (french fries) with it. They kept calling it lard and how gross it must be. They got a shock when I told them I had used that recipe to make the icing for the day. Some almost didn't want to try it!! Ha! When they did they were all so surprised and complementary you would have thought I had won the Noble Peace Prize! You learn something new every day.

I told them about cake balls and how to make them, and they got all excited and wanted to try them for their next party
.
We then talked about how to fill and hold an icing bag. The different tips using different positions to hold and decorate. I showed them how to make a rose and then we got on to decorating! We all enjoyed getting our hands dirty and being proud of our creations.

We had a fantastic day and I hope the women learned something they can

take home and make themselves.

Until my next class!

The Mod Market

2011-06-17T11:00:00.002+01:00

My sister Becca has always had an eye for fashion. She started making her own necklaces, headbands, hats, and bows. I LOVE THEM! Here are some of the things I have bought from her shop.

the large necklace with 3 frayed roses was custom made for me!

Here are some other items I'm wanting to buy:


Wedding Ivory Silk Hair Clip $11.99

Cream and Tulle Frayed Rosette Pin $7.99

Cream Lace Rose Headband $9.00

I'm going to have Becca make me a few smaller clips for my hair.

She can pretty much make anything you want. I LOVE IT!

Go check her out at: The Mod Market

I'm participating in Show Us Your Life: What you make or sell at Kelly's Korner

Edinburgh Zoo

2011-06-16T09:22:00.001+01:00

We have been wanting to go to the zoo for the last couple of years and we just haven't ever made it there. So, when LD had a few days off this week we decided it was perfect timing to bring little Sebastian to see the zoo for the first time.

We had been checking the weather almost religiously to pick the perfect day for our trip. You see, here in Scotland you can have all 4 seasons in one day. You can never really trust the weather channel or anything you see out your window. That being so, I packed for ALL weather types. I'm learning! Boy am I glad I did! It was sunny when we left, cold and windy when we got there, we were sweating about an hour later, and by lunch we had our sweaters back on. Whew! It was the best day in weeks though, and I am SO grateful for the beautiful day.

We put little Sebastian in his carrier so he could be looking out at all the fun animals and off we went. We saw Penguins (LD's first time seeing a real one), hippos, flamingo's, sea lions, zebra's, cattle, leopards, lions, and gorillas. We learned a lot and enjoyed seeing the different animals. They also had a Penguin Parade!! They open the Penguin exhibit and if any penguins want to come out for a stroll then they can. The zoo keepers lead them through the street and it was THE cutest thing ever! I think that was our favorite part of the whole day. Seeing those cute little penguins waddling so close to us was just the best. Sebastian couldn't keep his eyes off them. Sebastian was great the whole day! He smiled a lot, made loads of noises, and looked adorable in his hat that was too big for him.

We found a new castle that overlooks the ocean, and next time we are up in Edinburgh we are going to check it out. We love Edinburgh!

This and That

2011-06-09T21:08:00.000+01:00

Sebastian had his immunizations yesterday. Last ones until he is 1 yr old. Whew! I hate these. He has some red sore bumps on his legs from where he got the shots and he is tired and fussy today. Yet he is still a happy baby. He is just a bit uncomfortable.

Sebastian weighs 17 lbs 3oz. and he is 66cm long. He is 18 weeks old.

Yesterday, on the way to the dr's, we got caught is a torrential downpour of rain! I didn't bring the plastic rain cover for the pram (stroller) either! I had to shield us under a tree. The baby stayed dry, but I was soaking wet. Where is summer? Not here my friends. We are still wearing coats, hats, and staying indoors. Bleh.

I'm teaching two cupcake decorating classes this weekend. I have to bake 80 cupcakes tomorrow. Hmm... I will blog all the details and pictures!

Sebastian still hasn't rolled over. He is ALMOST there though. He gets to his side and stays there, then rolls back. He just isn't going over that tiny bit! I've been showing him what he is suppose to do, so I hope he'll roll over soon.

We are going to the Edinburgh Zoo next week. LD has NEVER seen a Penguin! Or a Polar Bear! He is really excited! It is cute how he wants to see these animals and share them with Sebastian. We are really looking forward to it! I'll blog pics!

Sebastian and I go swimming every Tuesday and we go to the library every Wednesday. We are going to start baby massage next week and I am SO excited! I am starting to have more and more things to do with the little guy and it is really helping both of us. We were getting a bit bored.

When we order Chinese food a Scottish guy delivers it. Guess what? They make it too. It weirds LD and I out that a Chinese person isn't making or delivering it!?

LD has 3 days off next week and we are going to rest and relax. I can't wait. It will be SO nice to have him home! I get lonely without him!

So, Why Are We in Scotland Anyway?

2011-06-06T09:38:00.003+01:00

Luis' parents are from Portugal. They moved to Venezuela when they got married at the age of 19. They lived there for 50 years and had two sons. 7 years ago they went back to Portugal to visit family, and called their sons in Venezuela and told them they weren't coming back. Luis was 32 and his brother was 43. They took the next year and packed up their belongings, and tried to sell their homes, get their paperwork, and moved to Portugal.

The reason they left Venezuela was because of all the political uncertainty there. Venezuela is a socialist country. Luis gets upset when people talk about the USA becoming socialist, because he says they have NO idea what they are talking about and what it is like to live in a Dictatorship. It is a scary place to be right now. We don't know what that word means.

Luis spent about 6 months looking for a job in Portugal with NO luck. He is the only member of his family to have a college degree and had supported the whole family financially prior to moving. He wasn't having any luck. So he broadened his horizons and found work at IBM in Scotland. He packed himself up in just ONE bag, and moved to Scotland.

Luis and I began to chat online about this time. He was living in Scotland and was still new here. When we had had enough of the back and forth visits of long distance dating we got engaged. He asked me here in Scotland! We then had to decide where we wanted to be.

He had a good job here in Scotland and I had a good job in Utah and was finishing my degree. We looked at VISA options. Getting a VISA to come to the USA was a HUGE piece of work. We'd be lucky if we were married in the next year or two, and the cost was HUGE. Something we just didn't have at the time. So, it was a lot cheaper and easier to get a Residence Visa for me here in Scotland. I was excited for the new adventure, and put my studies on hold. I moved here with just TWO bags. HOW did I d that?! I really don't know except that I had served a mission and worked on cruise lines and was use to packing my life into a bag and moving on. We moved here 3 days after we got married.

Luis has a different job now and we live in a different city too. We have a baby now! We have accumulated a life here. I wish I were closer to family. Sometimes I do miss the American life. American things. Living in another country is just that, living in another culture. It isn't the same. Sometimes that excites me and sometimes it makes me homesick.

Luis' parents still live in Portugal, as with his brother and sis-in-law. So, we both have no family near us. For some of you, you also don't live near family. But you can drive across the United States. You live in your own culture. A plane ticket is MUCH less to visit your home town or the ones you love. It is different than what we deal with.

I do really like it here. I like that Luis has a good job and I'm not sure we would have jobs right now if we stayed in the States. I like that we have had an opportunity to travel to new places. I like that we have benefits and maternity pay for so long. I like that we have National Health Care (say what you want about it, but we love it). I'm not sure how long we'll be here. I really have NO idea. But we are here in Scotland now, and we know that God sent us here for a reason.

But I do miss home....

Favorite Appetizer: Potato Salad

2011-06-04T09:22:00.000+01:00

This Potato Salad might just be LD's most favorite thing that I make. It is my mom's recipe, that she got from her grandmother. It has been passed down to all of us girl, and I'm going to pass it on to you. It is amazing!! To say the least.

I make this with steak or bbq Chicken on the grill, and some fresh corn on the cob. YUM!! LD makes me make a HUGE pot of it so he can eat on it all weekend, or at least for a few days! It is the perfect item to bring to a picnic with family or friends! ENJOY!!

Photo courtesy of my sister Katie and her cookbook: Everyday Gourmet

Serves: 6-8
Prep Time: 30 Min
Total Time: 1 hour

INGREDIENTS:

6 Potatoes
6 Eggs
3 Slices of Bacon
1/2 Large Onion, Diced

3 TBSP Mayonnaise
1 TBSP Dijon Mustard
1 1/2 TSP Dill Mix
Paprika (for garnish)

DIRECTIONS:
1. Peel and cube potatoes. Boil until tender, drain, and put in large bowl with sliced boiled eggs.
2. Fry Bacon and set aside on paper towel.
3. Saute onion in bacon grease.
4. Mix mayonnaise, mustard and dill together. Stir into potatoes and eggs. May need more mayonnaise while warm.
5. Sprinkle with bacon bits and paprika.

Favorite Appetizer: Sausage Balls

2011-06-04T08:51:00.001+01:00

Sausage Balls are a family favorite around here. We make them every holiday season. But more than that, they are THE easiest little appetizer out there! You can also bake these ahead of time, and just warm them up on the day. Helps make party prep a bit easier the more you can do the day before. I love me some sausage, and Scotland makes some FANTASTIC sausage! Enjoy!

Photo courtesy of my sister Katie Drake

Serves: 6-8
Prep time: 10 min
Bake: 20 min
Oven: 350 F

INGREDIENTS:

1 LB Sausage
1/2 Cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese
2 Cups Bisquick

DIRECTIONS:

1. Mix all ingredients together in large bowl with hands. Add water if more moisture is needed.
2. Form into 2-inch balls and place on cookie sheet (I use wax paper)
3. Bake at 350F for 20 minutes.

What's YOUR favorite Appetizer?

4 Months

2011-06-03T18:59:00.000+01:00

Look who's turned 4 months!


Isn't he gorgeous?!

Sebastian turned 4 months old on June 2nd. Where has time gone?
He weighs 16 lbs 13 oz! I forgot to have his height checked, it is not a "normal" thing they check.
He is sleeping through the night. From about 7pm-6am, then I feed him and he goes right back to sleep until about 8-9am.
He has this weird cowlick/widows peak thingy going on with his hair and it drives me nuts.
He is a hungry boy, but we won't be starting him on solids.
He likes to make noises with his lips. He will go to bed or wake up making noises. It is SO funny!
He still has a chronic 45 min nap thing going on, but occasionally it might be a bit longer. Dr said just go with it. It is wearing me out. I don't ever have a break.
He has a favorite toy: a lamb head with a blanket called Lamby. I know I'm creative.
He likes his dad more than me. I think it is cute, but admit that I am a bit jealous.
He smiles EVERY time we read a Sesame Street book. Especially when Elmo is on the page.
Tried the swing out for the first time today, and LOVED it!
Still likes watching TV. Thanks LD. I think this is going to be a problem.
Went swimming for the first time this week and had a blast!! He has baby speedos. SO European!

I can't believe how time is flying. It is actually surreal. I feel like I am still recovering from giving birth. Is that true or is it me just being really out of shape? Sebastian is learning new things everyday and it is so neat to watch him learn and grow.

Q&A Session

2011-06-01T11:58:00.000+01:00

I've realized that I've become somewhat complacent in my life here in Scotland. Not much is new to me anymore, so I'm not posting as much of my findings and cultural differences. I promise I'll do better! I know many of you probably have questions about what it is like to live in another country, living away from family, what we do here for fun, or more personal things about having a baby abroad, marriage, and general things about my life here.

Please ask me! Leave me a question in the comments and I'll answer them in a special post later on!

If you don't have a questions, let me know about what you'd like to see me blog about!

Confessions

2011-05-31T08:04:00.000+01:00

My baby turns 4 months old this week. WHERE has time gone? I love all the new things he is learning, and how big he is getting, but I am missing baby Sebastian. I fear I am not enjoying him as MUCH as I possibly can during this stage! I don't want him to get older.

In baby terms Sebastian is a fantastic sleeper. He sleeps from 7pm-6am, then falls promptly back to sleep after being fed (sometimes during) until 9-10am. I know, it's good right?! If only it didn't take me so long to fall asleep, and then that stupid pacifier needs thrown back in his mouth at 3:30am. It just throws me all off. I need to get myself fixed in the sleeping department because Sebastian is doing amazing, and I should be getting much more sleep.

I've seen blue skies this morning! I just can't believe it! After countless rainy/windy days, I've awoken to clear blue skies. Sebastian and I will be getting out today! I will be SO happy!

I saw SOMETHING BORROWED and I really liked it. Minus the whole cheating thing, hence the name something borrowed.... but I love me a good chick flick.

I wish I was home with my mom and sisters for the summer. I'm missing them a lot.

I had cheesecake for breakfast this morning. It was really good, but not helping me with Reshaping It All

I have a mound of laundry to do. I'd better get started on it before the baby wakes up in an hour (9am) and get a shower too.

Book Review: Reshaping It All

2011-05-30T10:35:00.000+01:00

Title: Reshaping It All: Motivation for Physical and Spiritual Fitness
Author: Candace Cameron Bure & Darlene Schacht
Publisher: B&H Books
Pages: 272
Author Website: www.candacecameronbure.net
Website: www.reshapingitall.com
Twitter: @candacecbure #ReShapingItAll

Bure’s healthy lifestyle has been featured in US Weekly and People magazines as well as national talk shows including The View and NBC’s Today. In Reshaping It All, she continues the story, inspiring women to embrace a healthier lifestyle by moving faith to the forefront, making wise choices, and finding their worth in the eyes of God. Candace shares a candid account of her struggle with food and ultimately her healthy outlook on weight despite the toothpick-thin expectations of Hollywood.

More than a testimony, here is a motivational tool that will put readers on the right track and keep them there. In addition to practical advice, Candace offers a biblical perspective on appetite and self control that provides encouragement to women, guiding them toward freedom.

Review:
Wow! I was really surprised by this book! It was MUCH more than I thought it would be. I found out about it because I kept seeing #ReshapingItAll all over my Twitter. WHAT was it? So, I Googled it. I thought the summary sounded good, and I really needed something to help me reshape my life after having a baby. So I bought it on Kindle and started reading it immediately.

The book is FULL of personal experiences from Candace's life. Her struggle with weight/self image, and her Christan beliefs. I was wondering what God had to do with weight loss? I'm even Christian! But, the more I read the more I understood. It is about self control. It is about controlling the natural man. It is about respecting our bodies and living for the future, not just for today. It is about taking care of our bodies and teaching our children to do the same.

I have been telling myself that I just don't have the will power to lose weight. Candace talks about pushing ourselves. She talked about athletes. Her husband is an Olympic medalist in hockey! I couldn't relate, but I did think about how I go without sleep constantly to take care of the baby. I don't think, I just do it. WHERE does that come from? I have some form of self control. If I could do that then why not with food?

Candace doesn't have a typical diet "plan". Hers is a lifestyle change. It is actually pretty simple. Watch your portions. Eat whole grains, fruits and veg. Exercise. And pray. Bring The Lord into your life. Let Him help you with your quest. Ask Him for help with your self control.

I have already started implementing some changes. I went for a walk today, cut out soda this past weekend, and a friend brought over some carrot cake and I only had a few bites and threw the rest away! They are small steps but I'm heading down the right path.

This isn't just a "diet book", it really is Reshaping Your Life! It is chock full of recipes, motivation quotes that are easy to find, scriptures to help you stay on track, and stories to keep you motivated. I loved reading about Candace's life and learning how to get my life in control. I say go get the book! I will be re-reading this as I make changes in my life! I'll let you know how it goes!

Quote:
"Self-discipline is an exercise that strengthens us over time when we continue to implement it. It puts our spirit in control of our flesh and keeps putting it there until the flesh learns to follow." pg102

Favorite Dessert: Butterscotch Cornflake Cookies

2011-05-28T10:27:00.000+01:00

Growing up we called these Paul's Easiest Cookies. I don't know who Paul is, but these ARE the easiest cookies I have EVER made. 3 ingredients only. What is NOT too like?!

Enjoy!

Makes: 9x13 inche pan
Total Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients:

1/2 Cup Peanut Butter
1 (12 oz) pkg. Butterscotch Chips
6 Cups Cornflakes

Directions:

1. Mix peanut butter and butterscotch chips in microwave at low temperature until creamy.

2. Slowly pour in cornflakes, mixing as you go.

3. Press into a 9x13 inch greased baking dish.

4. Let cool and enjoy!

Favorite Dessert Recipe: To Roll or Not To Roll Sugar Cookies

2011-05-28T10:13:00.000+01:00

This is another recipe from my sisters cookbook. I didn't even really notice this recipe until around Christmas time this past year. I wanted to make sugar cookies but I didn't want ALL that work. You know what I mean. You have to make the dough, then it has to sit in the fridge forever, then you have to roll them out, cut them, bake them, ice them, blah blah blah. I wanted me some sugar cookies, and I wanted them NOW. I was 8 months pregnant afterall!

These are SO quick and yummy! I was really surprised HOW fast they were to make. I don't even own a rolling pin. Hello! Fast and easy is what I'm looking for. These cookies are perfect. They are ready in just minutes. You can ice them up and send them fresh to friends or be ready for a birthday party. Enjoy!

What's your favorite dessert recipe?

Rhyme Time

2011-05-25T15:37:00.000+01:00

This morning Sebastian and I headed to the library for his very first Rhyme Time. I didn't quite know what to expect, but some friends came over last week and pulled me out of my funk. They made tons of calls and signed Sebastian and I up for a million fun things! So, we went to Rhyme Time.

We had so much fun that I almost started crying in the little circle at the library. I needed the time out of the flat, and Sebastian was just SO happy. He loved the singing time, reading books, playing with the toys and musical instruments. It was great! I didn't take a picture because I wasn't sure if any other parents might have a problem with it, or if it was allowed to take pictures in the library.

Sebastian is getting bigger everyday and needs more and more stimulation. So, we are headed to swimming lessons, baby massage, and some other family activities! I'm looking forward to enjoying this fun time together with my wee baby boy.

Blue Skies

2011-05-23T12:10:00.000+01:00

Yesterday we had a break in the clouds and rain! The wind was still going crazy though. Like a gale blowing off the ocean, but I was happy for a few hours break from the gloominess of it all.

Sebastian and I decided to brave the wind, and head out for a walk. I've been finding these great walking paths around my neighborhood. They are real gems! I'd much rather walk in peace and beauty than into town with loads of people and cars.

I found several new trails, and also a paved walking path through the woods that leads to Strathclyde Park! Strathclyde Park is a HUGE park that has tons of stuff to do. LD and I walked there with the baby about a month ago, and well...it took forever. We obviously took the long route. This walking path is 4km (2.4 miles)! Holy amazing find batman! When the weather gets a bit better I'm going to try out the walking path and pack a picnic lunch for Sebastian and I on the way.

On my walk I found a working train track. I just think these things are cool. We don't really have too many passenger trains in the States, so I just find them fascinating. It was out in the country and beautiful. I love what I've been finding around my flat! I'm loving living here more and more.

Here is my little one all bundled up for our windy walk!

Sleep Depravation

2011-05-22T20:32:00.000+01:00

I am sleep deprived. In the worst sense. It isn't just the baby. I have struggled with insomnia off and on for the last 15 yrs.

Sleep when the baby sleeps. Not so much. I actually HATE it when people say that to me. If only it was that easy. It takes me the babies WHOLE nap to finally doze off and right when I fall asleep the baby wakes up. Thus making me feel even worse than before. So why even bother?

I can get to sleep just fine at night but I wake up after about an hour and a half, then I am basically waiting for the baby to get up (not by choice I just can't get back to sleep), feed him, then I lay in bed until around 6am-7am. Then the baby wakes up, and sometimes I get him or sometimes I make LD get him, then I sleep from sheer exhaustion for about 2 hrs before LD needs to leave for work.

This is my life and it is making me VERY exhausted. Try taking a pill you say? I do. Nothing happens. Also, 3am is not the optimum time to be taking sleeping medication. They don't prescribe sleeping meds here like candy like they do in the States. I tried to even buy some herbal over the counter sleeping meds at our local drug store, and the Pharmacist wouldn't sell them to me. That's right. They can refuse to sell you over the counter meds. No, I am NOT on any other medication.

I am just so tired that it is making me crazy. I'm living on a nap essentially.

I just had to share my experience because I am so tired I just need to shout about it.

Favorite Dinner Recipe: Summer Sauce For Pasta

2011-05-20T11:00:00.006+01:00

As a Wedding present, my sister Katie made me a book of her best recipes. She made all the dishes, took the pictures herself and compiled them into a book. I use it all the time. We have eaten some of our very best meals from her book. This recipe comes from the book she made me:

Everyday Gourmet by Katherine Drake

I love this recipe because it is SO easy! I am ALL about easy folks. By the time dinner rolls around I'm just so tired and I want to make anything that is easy to throw together. You just dump all the ingredients into a bowl and let it set for at least an hour to let all the flavors to mingle. Then when ever you are ready you just boil up some angel hair pasta! Voila! You're done! Can't get any easier that this guys! You serve the sauce cool, with warm pasta. It is really nice on those hot summer days when all you want is something cool and healthy.

I like to serve it with Asparagus! My sisters way is THE ONLY way I'll eat it now! Super yummy!

If I'm feeling like dessert I will serve it with some sorbet and fresh fruit. Makes for a super healthy and filling summer meal! Enjoy!

What is your favorite dinner recipe?

Favorite Dinner Recipe: Black Bean Enchiladas

2011-05-20T09:00:00.006+01:00

Here is one of our favorites: Black Bean Enchiladas with Gooey Jack Cheese. We eat this probably once per week, we LOVE it! It is SO yummy and it really fills you up. We have changed the recipe around a few times to make it vegetarian! Just add more vegi's and no chicken!! We had made different types of rice for it too. Just have fun. See what all you can fit into a tortilla!

We serve it with a side of fresh corn on the cob! YUM!!

What is your favorite dinner recipe?

I'm participating in Show Us Your Life: Favorite Main Course Recipes at Kelly's Korner