tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61811827840573823622023-11-15T22:37:48.275-08:00You've Bewitched Me, Body and SoulShannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.comBlogger538125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-72490008658286224032014-05-12T22:58:00.000-07:002014-05-12T22:58:03.811-07:00thoughts, just thoughtsWritten by Shannon Leigh<br />
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Thoughts, just thoughts.<br />
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Why? <br />
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Because that's all I have time for. I think A LOT but rarely do these thoughts actually come out in any form. I spend my days with small people that aren't much for conversation. One of them just yells loudly, demanding food or drink at ALL TIMES. And the other is so consumed with asking the same question 16 different ways to even know I exist. Well, other than to ask me to get her a snack. Which by the way…<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #674ea7;">I could be BLEEDING out of my eyeballs and laying in a pool of my own blood and she would STILL demand a snack. Kids are weird. Precious little love-suckers but <i>weird </i>and demanding.</span><br />
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I am trying to get a grip on this motherhood thing and most days I am fairly certain I suck at it. I am completely unqualified. I am MORE than selfish and I can barely take care of myself- let alone 2 small people who look to me for every life-giving resource. What the heck? Why on earth did the Lord give these children to <i>me</i>? I am sure there were other much more qualified people … maybe an elementary teacher, or a daycare provider, or a ventriloquist…? <br />
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But on a daily basis I have to remind myself that God DID give them to <i>me </i>and HE does not make mistakes. He gave them to me to raise with the love of my life... I mean how could I be so blessed? All I am is a broken vessel crying out for the Lord to move and work IN SPITE of <i>me</i>.<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Corbel, Verdana, sans-serif;">"But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly of my weaknesses, so that the power of Christ may rest upon me."</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Corbel, Verdana, sans-serif;">2 corinthians 12:9</span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Corbel, Verdana, sans-serif;">So here I am living in a heap of weakness so that He may be perfected. </span><br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Corbel, Verdana, sans-serif;">Amen.</span><br />
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Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-858571621285381262014-03-11T11:53:00.001-07:002014-03-11T11:57:55.353-07:00The Dollhouse Diaries<br />
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Gasp, Shannon is writing a blog post! What on earth is happening?</div>
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Hey now, it's not that I don't WANT to write I just don't have the time. I don't even have time to READ blogs anymore. It's true, I haven't read a single one in well over a year- unless it's posted to instagram. Occasionally I'll read those. <br />
I have literally been writing this post for days and it is just now getting published :(.</div>
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Speaking of instagram. That's where I do most of my posting these days since it's fast and simple.</div>
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You should follow me <a href="http://instagram.com/shananderson/">HERE</a>, it's definitely more updated than this poor, neglected blog.</div>
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ANYWAY, I recently renovated our childhood dollhouse and I sacrificed my fingernails and my sanity for far too long NOT to share it on my <i>actual</i> blog with LOTS of pictures. SERIOUSLY, this thing was almost the death of me. It was a major test on our marriage, my sanity, my strength <i>and </i>my stamina but somehow I prevailed and conquered the blasted thing. Other than the countless (I am talking COUNTLESS) hours of work I truly enjoyed the process- but it was<i> extremely TEDIOUS</i>. Kind of like a real house but in miniature.</div>
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I gave it to Ruby for her 4th birthday and I am so glad I did!</div>
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Thank the good Lord that she absolutely LOVED it. I would have cried buckets had she been indifferent. BUCKETS people.</div>
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Anyway, without further adieu….<br />
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The exterior was a royal pain. I don't pride myself on my detail work so this was super hard for me. I had to reframe most of the windows and replace the exterior trim. The goal was to make it look like our house, hence the blue door and dark brown paint. Painting all of this with a steady hand was incredibly tedious, especially with a bum finger on my right hand (I broke and damaged ligaments in my middle finger back in December when I decided to sled down my snowy deck steps- it wasn't one of my better decisions. We even have it on video, perhaps I will share someday?).<br />
I painted the roof a dark charcoal gray since I had to replace some shingles and I felt like I'd NEVER be able to make it match.<br />
The tiny bunting was made from paper and tiny ricrack that I had laying around.<br />
Here is a before picture just so you get the idea.<br />
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Let's just say this bad boy was very well loved. It was loved to <i>pieces</i> if you will.<br />
My Grandpa Gardner built it by hand and that makes is <i>so</i> special to me. I don't think I would have taken the time to fix it up otherwise.<br />
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This is what the interior looked like when I first received it from my mom. We had wallpapered most of the rooms and a few walls were crooked.<br />
Once everything was repaired, stripped and sanded I caulked around every edge and corner and painted everything white. It only took FOUR coats.<br />
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I wallpapered the back walls of each room and trimmed each interior window.<br />
Most of the furniture came from ebay. The fireplace was red brick and we painted it teal.<br />
Other furniture was left over from when we were kids and got a fresh coat of paint (like the pink table).<br />
I also got some funky accessories, like the cello and the wooden spools from a local junk store that I am obsessed with! The floral artwork was from an old German greeting card found at the same store.<br />
I made the chandelier out of a toilet paper roll, left over trim and beaded ribbon. <br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="599" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" nbsp="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/13069513023/player/f08fedffd6" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="800"></iframe><br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="624" mozallowfullscreen="" msallowfullscreen="" nbsp="" oallowfullscreen="" src="https://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/13069063125/player/71724a07d8" webkitallowfullscreen="" width="800"></iframe>I couldn't resist the red kitchen when I found it. It matches Ruby's play kitchen perfectly and I knew it was meant to be. I hung the amazing<a href="http://www.naptimediariesshop.com/"> Naptime Diaries art work </a>over the sink since we have it hanging in our kitchen too! The coffee cup print also hangs in our kitchen. Check out this adorable shop <a href="https://www.etsy.com/shop/LittleLightPrints?campaign_label=receipt_buyer&utm_source=transactional&utm_campaign=receipt_010170_7297498688_0_0&utm_medium=trans_email">HERE</a>.<br />
Each little mouse got their own room with some kind of art work in it.<br />
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TThe washer and dryer were a must as well since they match ours!<br />
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I haven't touched the bathroom yet because I didn't have the energy to hunt down a tub and toilet. Maybe I can get those for her for another occasion?<br />
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The office ended up being one of my favorite rooms. I made the table out of old rulers and the lampshade out of a toilet paper roll and shingles. I found the chair at hobby lobby for $2 and it just needed a fresh coat of paint.<br />
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Of course we had to have a teepee on the top floor. I find the mice in there quite often.</div>
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The plan was to put in hardwood floors but I kind of like the brightness of the white. We'll see if I ever get around to installing them- of if Ruby would even want them!</div>
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Either way Ruby loves it and has already clocked a lot of hours playing with it! I am pleased with the outcome but I do not foresee any more dollhouse renovations in my future! One and done my friends, one and done.</div>
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Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-67884192220065409362013-11-26T11:32:00.002-08:002013-11-26T11:41:33.734-08:00Max's Monster MashWritten by Shannon Leigh<br />
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So I am <i>finally</i> getting around to posting photos from Max's Monster Mash (only a month after the fact).<br />
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I still haven't gone through my pictures from August (or September or October) but I figured that this monumental event took precedence.<br />
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SO as you probably know… Max turned 1! I know, I still feel like he is 3 months old too. Where on EARTH does the time go? It's cruel really. At least he is turning into an awesome little dude whom I am falling even harder for as the months go by or else I'd stomp my feet and pout about the fact that he is getting so big.<br />
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I have ALWAYS been super into Halloween and I have been searching for a reason to throw a Halloween bash for the last decade. This year I FINALLY had my excuse. I mean what better way to celebrate the birth of your second born than with spiders and eye ball cake pops? Since Maxwell is a bonified giant/monster we figured "Max's Monster Mash" was perfectly fitting for his first birthday.<br />
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Max was a chocolate chip cookie for Halloween this year and I felt like it was just right for him since he is SO very fat and he obviously loves to eat (continually).<br />
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I sent out the invitations and requested Halloween costumes for the kids. The party fell the weekend AFTER Halloween so it gave the kids just one last chance to wear their costumes! It rained on Halloween this year so the kids only wore their costumes for a few minutes before we had to duck inside. I was actually really glad that my costume slave labor was rewarded with a second wear.<br />
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In the invitations I sprinkled spider confetti. My mom said she totally freaked out when she opened it. Mission accomplished.<br />
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I really tried to be economical with the party decor. I know that parties can get out of hand and I was really trying to avoid spending an arm and a leg.<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11061847404/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="untitled-150 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-150" height="534" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2855/11061847404_16c18462fc_c.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
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I really like to fill a table with STUFF for a party so I went to a thrift store and bought a million candle holders. I spray painted them a glossy black and bought a bunch of white tapered candle sticks at the dollar store. I figured I could use these again so I didn't mind buying so many. I even fashioned a little cake stand for Max's cake with thrift store finds.</div>
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I had been saving my empty glass jars for some project or another for awhile now and I decided to make a bunch of mustache ghosts/jack-o-lanterns to add to the table. </div>
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All you need: old glass jars, white tissue paper, and modpodge. I found some mustache wrapping paper at TJ Maxx awhile back. I cut out the mustaches from the paper and modpodged them to the surface. Throw in a tea light and voila- you have a glowing white jack-o-lantern with a mustache. </div>
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I splurged on mustache printed burlap from JoAnn's (40 % off coupon) and I used it as a table runner. I plan to repurpose it in Max's room at some point.</div>
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Since the party was AFTER halloween I went out the day after and bought TONS of stuff on clearance- like the Martha Stewart spiders on the wall and the black frames for his name. I even got eyeball bouncy balls to decorate the table with. I probably spent a total of $10.<br />
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I had been taking a picture of Maxwell via instax every week for the past year. I displayed his pictures at the party as well. The frame of pictures hung in his room for the last year so I figured it was fitting to bring it down for the party. Plus it gave me some much needed height for the table scape.<br />
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I kept the menu fairly simple.<br />
In fact I made all that I could ahead of time and froze it! It was seriously so simple, I have finally gotten wise in this regard. The simpler the better!<br />
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Menu:<br />
Santa Fe Soup<br />
Wild Rice Soup<br />
Mummy wrapped weinies<br />
Cheese ball and crackers<br />
Fruit tray<br />
chocolate mint and vanilla cake balls<br />
Chocolate <a href="http://www.countryliving.com/cooking/recipes/halloween-cake-recipes-1008#slide-2">spider web cake</a><br />
chocolate mustache lollipops<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11071815444/" title="untitled-190 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-190" height="534" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5542/11071815444_c1211e0f81_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><br />
The eye ball cake pops were pretty much the reason I threw the Monster Mash to begin with. I LOVE THEM and they were the perfect center piece. The kids loved them:)<br />
I put them in a black cauldron with black packing paper around the bottom. The rest of the cake balls were served dipped in either vanilla candy coating or mint chocolate with an orange drizzle.<br />
A big shout out to my sister, Brooke, for helping put them together the night before!<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11068493773/" title="untitled-193 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-193" height="534" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5494/11068493773_13d5a037d2_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11068174344/" title="cakepops by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="cakepops" height="584" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2847/11068174344_81e57aed5f_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11068296935/" title="cake by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="cake" height="363" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5475/11068296935_092976ede3_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><br />
I made a small 2 tier smash cake for Monster Max (that is what Ruby has been calling him lately). Surprisingly he didn't go crazy on the cake but enjoyed it nonetheless.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11067914715/" title="cakes by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="cakes" height="602" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3777/11067914715_b9643ff170_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11068508515/" title="untitled-262 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-262" height="534" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2806/11068508515_880b1a8348_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11068627266/" title="untitled-264 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-264" height="534" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5476/11068627266_4b9cb95c17_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11068567235/" title="untitled-269 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-269" height="534" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7365/11068567235_271df5f6c4_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11068823663/" title="cake2 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="cake2" height="406" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7410/11068823663_bc38ac7052_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11069206516/" title="untitled-302 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-302" height="534" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3781/11069206516_898d27f1df_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11069135505/" title="untitled-303 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-303" height="534" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7307/11069135505_57988e1d0c_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11069081525/" title="untitled-298 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-298" height="800" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3688/11069081525_3d8a2d5b56_c.jpg" width="534" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11069280416/" title="untitled-321 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-321" height="800" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5499/11069280416_542376be05_c.jpg" width="534" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11069165944/" title="untitled-283 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-283" height="534" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7349/11069165944_ec30db6533_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><br />
<br />
All in all we had about 15 kids dressed up for the party. I got a shot of all of them together but I forgot to change my camera settings so it didn't turn out (leave it to the photographer…).<br />
:*( I know somebody from the party got a shot so I will share it eventually!<br />
We played pin the mustache on the ghost and we went bobbing for apples! I think the kids really enjoyed it and I know we did!<br />
Thanks sooooo much to all of our family and friends who came from near and far. It really means a lot to us that Max is so well loved! We feel beyond blessed by each of you!<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11068412575/" title="untitled-205 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-205" height="534" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5505/11068412575_9a900a9f20_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11069332784/" title="Noah by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="Noah" height="406" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5482/11069332784_4f5f0de7da_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11068434903/" title="weston by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="weston" height="366" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5473/11068434903_c91d89f2cb_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11068393703/" title="penguine by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="penguine" height="448" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5478/11068393703_912cfde699_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11068476335/" title="applebobbing by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="applebobbing" height="544" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3705/11068476335_8c123760e8_c.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11069351754/" title="untitled-348-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-348-1" height="534" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7318/11069351754_080f966e8d_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11069417196/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="untitled-121 (1) by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-121 (1)" height="333" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5471/11069417196_6c13f429b6_c.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11069378804/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="untitled-367 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><br /><img alt="untitled-367" height="534" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7430/11069378804_0bcd318242_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11069353826/" title="untitled-362 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-362" height="534" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5533/11069353826_35307b4074_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/11067936255/" title="untitled-133 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-133" height="800" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3723/11067936255_f4bf73449d_c.jpg" width="534" /></a>Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-8670045486919992092013-09-16T12:37:00.002-07:002013-09-16T12:37:29.408-07:00Doll Bed RedoWritten by Shannon Leigh<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/9773803602/" title="IMG_9436-2 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9436-2" height="800" src="http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5481/9773803602_43e6730c64_c.jpg" width="534" /></a><br />
<br />
So back a few months ago I bought a doll bunk bed for $1.<br />
<br />
It was a thrift store find and even though it was old and super ugly I couldn't pass it up for $1.<br />
<br />
I decided I'd spruce her up and give her a new life.<br />
<br />
My sister and I were SUPER into American girl dolls as kids. I had Kirsten, the Swedish immigrant and Morgan had Samantha, a little rich girl who had it all.<br />
<br />
We had EVERY accessory available. We had their bedroom sets, their kitchen sets, their holiday sets, etc. not to mention every outfit.<br />
Every dime we had we'd spend on Kirsten and Samantha.<br />
<br />
This bed actually reminded me a lot of Samantha's bed, except Samantha's bed wasn't a bunk bed.<br />
<br />
Anyway, the point is that Ruby is much too young to play with my Kirsten doll and accessories (although the day will be here soon) so I thought this was a good doll bed for the time being.<br />
<br />
<br />
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This is what she looked like before:</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/9773732001/" title="IMG_3312 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_3312" height="800" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7339/9773732001_c0420b659b_c.jpg" style="cursor: move;" width="534" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
I bought a can of spray paint (Ruby picked green with a little guidance from me).<br />
I waited until foam was 50% off at Joann and I sewed up some little mattresses with vintage pillowcases I already had.<br />
Ruby obviously picked the only purple one I had. There is no other color in this world according to her.<br />
Unfortunately one pillowcase wasn't enough to cover the top, bottom and 4 sides so I decided to make the mattress reversible.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/9774034565/" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="IMG_9448 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9448" height="534" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3831/9774034565_9d6721e075_c.jpg" width="800" /></a><br />
Even though it took me MONTHS to finish, I actually LOVE the way it turned it out and it is certainly cheaper than anything American Girl. I think I spent about $15 on the entire project.<br />
<br />
It makes me happy to see her little dollies tucked into this bed at all times of the day.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/9774023014/" title="IMG_9445 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9445" height="800" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2819/9774023014_1dc31d9324_c.jpg" width="534" /></a><br />
<br />
Who knows… maybe for Christmas I will make her a couple of doll quilts and pillows to complete the bed?<br />
Only time will tell.<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-74127511535910615022013-09-15T21:27:00.000-07:002013-09-15T21:31:02.121-07:00Time is a BWritten by Shannon Leigh<br />
<br />
Seriously.<br />
I debated on what to title this. I realize it's not appropriate. I digress. I am but a sinner.<br />
<br />
BUT HOW IS THIS POSSIBLE?<br />
<br />
It makes me want to throw my computer across the room and cry.<br />
How is she this big?<br />
<br />
Yes, it's the obligatory orchard picture and it ticked me off to see how much she's changed over the last 3 years. She's turned into a little woman before my eyes.<br />
<br />
STOP growing Ruby… you're killing your Mama.<br />
<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/9768201922/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="BryanKayla-1744 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="BryanKayla-1744" height="800" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3752/9768201922_febb4208bf_c.jpg" width="534" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/9768554593/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="3 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="3" height="391" src="http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2852/9768554593_85c810a34a_c.jpg" width="800" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
And because he is a-mazing and it was his first trip to the orchard.<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/9768231361/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="BryanKayla-1754 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="BryanKayla-1754" height="800" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7367/9768231361_57974edd73_c.jpg" width="534" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/9768476414/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" title="BryanKayla-1760 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="BryanKayla-1760" height="800" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7292/9768476414_f767f15e23_c.jpg" width="534" /></a></div>
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P-s- I am wearing the same flats in both Ruby's first orchard picture and Max's. They now have holes in them. I think I need new shoes.</div>
Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-61377223386459619262013-09-04T21:41:00.001-07:002013-09-04T21:41:12.474-07:00Just Checking my Calendar MommyWritten by Shannon Leigh<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/9674847009/" title="Untitled by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="640" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3708/9674847009_7bcb375603_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
A few days ago we made the mistake of telling Ruby that were going to go to GiGi and Pop's house this weekend.<br />
Ruby is 3 1/2 and has ZERO concept of time.<br />
She thinks in "yester-nights" and "last-days" and tomorrows.<br />
3 or 4 days away does not exist in her sweet, innocent, un-tainted brain.<br />
<br />
We really should know better than to tell her such exciting news so far in advance but I believe it was being held out as a carrot to get her to eat her green beans.<br />
It worked as an adequate bribe; she ate all of her green beans.<br />
But we've been paying dearly for sharing the news ever since.<br />
<br />
This morning Ruby came down from her room in a fancy dress and her purple glasses placed squarely on her face (sunglasses that lost the lenses long ago). She was swinging her purple computer in her hand and her curls were extra bouncy with sleepy sweat.<br />
<br />
She excitedly said "ok Mommy, I'm ready to go to GiGi and Pop's now!"<br />
I explained that we were not going to GiGi's today and that we would be going on Friday.<br />
<br />
She guffawed frustratedly and thought about it for a moment and then quickly placed her purple computer on top of a kitchen stool.<br />
She flipped it open hastily and began typing quickly with her head tilted to the side.<br />
<br />
I asked her what she was doing.<br />
<br />
With a heavy sigh she said: "I'm just checking my calendar…to see when Friday is so then I can go to GiGi and Pop's house!"<br />
<br />
This girl. She cracks me up.<br />
<br />
And somehow she's all mine.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/9678083000/" title="Untitled by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="Untitled" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7333/9678083000_dfb3bbc9e5_z.jpg" width="480" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-2964094430728043202013-05-07T17:17:00.001-07:002013-05-07T17:30:18.632-07:00Truth isWritten by Shannon Leigh<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8659578370/" title="IMG_6297-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6297-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8109/8659578370_a5146aebff_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am weary</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>very</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>very</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<i>very</i></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
weary.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Our child doesn't sleep.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am loosing my mind.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He confuses the crap out of me.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He is just so inconsistent.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
You see, there was a short snippet of time when he did sleep.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Oh glory.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
In fact I think that's what I told you all in my last post (long ago).</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He was sleeping from 8pm to 6am…</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I was hoping that it wasn't a fluke.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Boy was it ever.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
That lasted a whopping week.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
And then it has gotten progressively worse.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am so tired.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
I am aging at a certain rapid rate.<br />
<br />
To be fair, Max is a rockstar napper.<br />
He takes 2 solid 2 + hour naps in his crib everyday.<br />
He is generally happy and sweet during the day.<br />
Interactive.<br />
Playful.<br />
Joyful.<br />
He is a great eater (still nursing and eating solids too).<br />
<br />
But at night?<br />
He tuns into a demon child with a serious temper (I kid- sort of).</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Up until this point we have given him the benefit of the doubt.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Maybe he really is hungry?<br />
(We have started supplementing frozen breast milk after each meal just be sure he's getting enough)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Maybe his teeth hurt?<br />
(Tylenol/ibprofen/teething tablets)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Maybe he has gas?<br />
(drops)</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Maybe he is in a growth spurt?</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Maybe he just needs to be a little bit older?<br />
<br />
We've tried to feed (stuff) him before we go to bed at 11pm.<br />
We wake him up after he goes to bed at 7 and we fill him up and put him right back down.<br />
He still wakes up 3 to 4 hours later screaming/completely inconsolable.<br />
<br />
<br />
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We've tuned off the monitor and let him "cry it out." </div>
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He cries for HOURS.</div>
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He doesn't stop.</div>
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And when he does stop, he starts back up 20 minutes later.</div>
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<br /></div>
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Trying to intervene with paci-plugging just makes him irrate.</div>
<div>
We've tried it all.</div>
<div>
But enough is enough.</div>
<br />
<br />
I think he has a temper and get's ticked when he wakes up in the middle of the night and can't go back to sleep.<br />
I do believe this is a classic battle of wills.<br />
<br />
My dear precious boy… mommy's will is stronger.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Bootcamp starts tonight.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8658483093/" title="IMG_6301-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_6301-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8126/8658483093_62cc19c050_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
I apologize if this is incoherent.<br />
I'm tired.<br />
<br /></div>
Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-33836108059505524822013-02-23T21:09:00.000-08:002013-02-23T21:09:14.671-08:00Maxwell Wade, 3 1/2 MonthsWritten by Shannon Leigh<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
My, my, my…</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
how life has changed.</div>
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8502504934/" title="IMG_5335-2 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5335-2" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8377/8502504934_342569121d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
Our sweet baby boy is 3 1/2 months old.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
He has changed so much over the past few weeks, I can hardly stand it.<br />
And of course we are falling more and more in love with each passing day.<br />
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8499828776/" title="IMG_5334 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5334" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8108/8499828776_a61f68baa4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br />
Right now my Max is cozied in bed in his swaddle.<br />
Yes, he still loves being swaddled (<a href="http://www.thewoombie.com/?gclid=CLrhr9SPzrUCFcdDMgodqkEApQ">woombied</a> if you will).<br />
<br />
We seem to have tuned a corner in the sleep department, thank you Jesus.<br />
He generally sleeps from 8 to 6 without waking so we are feeling much more rested in recent days.<br />
We just hope it's not a fluke!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8502525916/" title="IMG_5345 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5345" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8096/8502525916_5702efd49d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
He can sit if propped and he has, on occasion, sat on his own for a few seconds at a time.<br />
He loves to stand and bounce constantly.<br />
We even got out the exersaucer because he likes to bounce and be upright so much.<br />
He has also started to roll from his tummy to his back and can get from is back to his side on his own.<br />
He is such a big boy and is completely different from Ruby.<br />
<br />
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He obviously eats like a champ. I mean check out those THIGHS. </div>
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Couldn't you just nibble on them. I do, daily.</div>
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I am guessing we'll start solids soon but we'll see what the doctor says at his 4 month appointment.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8501423575/" title="IMG_5346 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5346" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8511/8501423575_550f46cae1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
He babbles and laughs and absolutely loves to be talked to.<br />
His eyes are too big for his face and they can light up a room.<br />
We still aren't sure what color his eyes are going to be. I am guessing hazel? I think they're too green to be blue but to blue to be green?<br />
He's got beautiful baby skin and his rosy cheeks just long to be kissed.<br />
I am happy to oblige.<br />
<br />
Who would have thought that I could love a funny looking baby boy so much?<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8502499096/" title="IMG_5333 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5333" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8384/8502499096_6f12a76e7b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
The second baby is so much easier than the first (in some ways).<br />
We are so much more relaxed and know what to expect to some degree.<br />
<br />
That being said, there are plenty of challenges.<br />
<br />
Sometimes the days are long.<br />
I am tired.<br />
I am pulled in 800 different directions every day (figuratively and literally).<br />
I am covered in spit-up.<br />
I do not feel attractive (see statement above).<br />
My toddler throws fits in public.<br />
Max pees on our bed.<br />
Matt and I fight.<br />
The dog throws up on the carpet.<br />
I don't get to use the bathroom by myself.<br />
I am ravenously hungry. All.The.Time. <br />
I am getting wrinkles.<br />
I get a paper cut<br />
I haven't painted my toenails since before Max was born.<br />
&<br />
My ab muscles may never be the same.<br />
<br />
<br />
But I am blessed.<br />
And one precious giggle from this guy and a sweet snuggle from miss Ruby somehow makes it all worth while (on most days).<br />
It's a strange phenomenon, motherhood.<br />
<br />
I don't think I'd trade it for anything in the world.<br />
<br />
<br /></div>
Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-33675455222065358662013-02-08T12:42:00.001-08:002013-02-08T12:42:52.250-08:00Roley Transcends Written by Shannon Leigh<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8455384471/" title="January2012-340 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="January2012-340" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8372/8455384471_49dc4e282e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
If you knew me as a kid odds are that you also knew Roley, the wiener dog.<br />
<br />
It's important to note that Roley was not a real dog but he was my favorite stuffed animal of all time.<br />
<br />
It was the early 90's and Roley was my BFF. He fit perfectly in my arms and between my legs as I wrapped his lanky body up for a good snuggle.<br />
<br />
To this day I have no idea why Roley was THE ONE, I had dozens of stuffed animals. But there was just something about him. Maybe it was his floppy ears or his velvet nose?<br />
He was a gift from my oldest sister. We don't remember the occasion in which I got him but I remember receiving him. He wasn't expensive or special in any way (my sister recently informed me that she picked him out from a bin at K-Mart) but he was truly the love of my life.<br />
<br />
One time I was on a traveling softball trip (probably much too old for stuffed animals) and I left him in our hotel room.<br />
I.WAS.DISTRAUGHT.<br />
I remember sobbing and sobbing while my best friend, Jenna, had her arms wrapped tightly around me. I couldn't eat, I couldn't sleep, I was miserable. I kept envisioning him in a trashcan somewhere or in the arms of another little girl. I just couldn't take it.<br />
Luckily my mom called the hotel and they found my lover dog wrapped up in the sheets. They were kind enough to send him back to us in a box. They had him folded up in a much too small box that didn't have air holes. I was appalled at his treatment but I was so glad to have him back. I am fairly certain that the crease in his mid-section remains to this day.<br />
On family vacations my dad would prop him up on the steering wheel and wave at the cars whizzing by. I thought it was absolutely hilarious.<br />
Once Roley's ear got ripped off and I completely freaked out (I don't remember the exact details of how it happened). I thought he'd never be the same. Luckily my mom was able to mend him but he still bears the scars of different colored stitches.<br />
<br />
However silly it sounds, Roley was kind of my first baby.<br />
The way I loved him was pretty intense. I should have known how much more I'd love my REAL babies. The Lord made me this way I guess, to love something/someone so intensely that it hurts. I suppose it's a bit of a blessing and a curse. :)<br />
<br />
When I outgrew stuffed animals I could never bring myself to get rid of my Roley. He eventually got moved from the center of the bed to the top shelf of the closet. I suppose this is the story for most stuffed animals.<br />
<br />
When we moved into our new house last month I happened to unpack a box that housed my beloved Roley. Ruby found him and instantly fell in love. She is crazy about him and plays with him everyday.<br />
There is clearly something special about this handsome little wiener dog. <br />
<br />
He apparently transcends generations.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8455379203/" title="January2012-338 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="January2012-338" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8520/8455379203_48c64ae800_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8455382073/" title="January2012-339 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="January2012-339" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8508/8455382073_e4e8c85b27_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
P.S.-this is what my house looks like on most days and YES, Ruby is wearing her purple dress AGAIN. It's not worth the fight:)</div>
<br />
I think it's fun that Ruby has been into both Matt and I's favorite childhood stuffed animals.<br />
How could we forget her love for Bruno?<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/6167994251/" title="IMG_2572 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_2572" height="640" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6177/6167994251_b9f64658f8_z.jpg" width="427" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/6214060457/" title="IMG_2565 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_2565" height="427" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6156/6214060457_5ed7d2f7b3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
Um, wasn't this just yesterday?<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
<br />Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-41397582696154405692013-01-29T15:45:00.001-08:002013-01-29T15:45:31.172-08:00Ain't Too Proud MondayWritten by Shannon Leigh<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
So there was this one time back in January of 2009 that Izzy looked like this.</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/3460933109/" title="IMG_9695 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9695" height="640" src="http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3620/3460933109_c7ec677e2d_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
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We tried out a new groomer and it went really badly.</div>
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Izzy just isn't cut out for a poodle cut.</div>
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Poor dog.</div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-46862806543707930172013-01-21T14:39:00.003-08:002013-01-21T14:39:33.504-08:00Ain't Too Proud MondayWritten by Shannon Leigh<br />
<br />
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At any given moment my precious little boy can go from this…</div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8402707135/" title="January2012-357-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="January2012-357-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8373/8402707135_0eb54518d7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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To this...</div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8402711325/" title="January2012-358 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="January2012-358" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8220/8402711325_7fdafd07a7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
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We have a spitter on our hands folks. </div>
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<br /></div>
Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-40793791878385433332013-01-10T12:03:00.000-08:002013-01-10T12:04:56.602-08:00Life LatelyWritten by Shannon Leigh<br />
<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8368610910/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;" title="January2012-113-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="January2012-113-1" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8515/8368610910_61f98fc954_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8368614256/" title="January2012-253 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="-webkit-text-decorations-in-effect: none; color: black;"></span></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8368614256/" title="January2012-253 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="January2012-253" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8472/8368614256_cc1b5b86eb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
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</div>
This was a series of text messages that I sent to family on our way to Christmas, the day after we moved into our new house. Things were a little crazy.<br />
I felt as though it needed to be shared on a larger scale.<br />
Enjoy.<br />
<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">So just to give you a little glimpse into our trip so far…</span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Ruby wants to wear her stupid purple dress, like she does every day. I put her in something else and she threw a major fit. So I finally gave in and put some tights on her and threw her in the car. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">We leave the house 2 hours late (mostly because Matt is OCD and mopped our entire wood floor and he can't find any of his shoes). This lead to him to searching through boxes and leaving footprints on our freshly painted basement floor that we spent HOURS painting. He didn't find them which leaves him grouchy. We get in the car as fast as we possibly can.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">About 45 minutes later Ruby, in a panicky voice says "I have to go potty!" We both looked at each other.... "Did you take her to the bathroom?" we say. In the chaos of leaving the house neither of us took her to the bathroom and we know once she tells us she has to go we have a very small window. </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span>
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">So we stopped on the side of the interstate. We don't have our potty chair, so we tell her she gets to pee in the grass like Izzy (she thinks this is great). Matt takes her around the side of the car and helps her pull down her tights and undies. She starts going and pee starts to trickle, no stream down her leg and gets absorbed into her freshly laundered tights.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">So we strip her down in the freezing cold only to realize the fresh undies and tights are in her suitcase conveniently located at the very bottom of our trunk. We finally get her changed and she throws another massive fit because she doesn't want to wear her seatbelt.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">We get back on the road where Matt promptly takes 55 NORTH when we were supposed to take 55 south!</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">And now Max is stirring... Oh well, I pumped a fresh bottle for him to give him on the road. The bottle that is currently sitting on the kitchen counter, in Mahomet.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="border-collapse: collapse; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></span><br />
<br />Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-22896871272010447052012-12-18T12:04:00.000-08:002012-12-18T12:21:13.852-08:00Mister BlissWritten by Shannon Leigh<br />
<br />
"You know, your blog still thinks you are 39 weeks pregnant."<br />
Yes, I realize I am about 6 weeks behind in posting about our darling boy as I was kindly reminded by my dear friend Betsy a few days ago.<br />
<br />
My sweet little mister <i>has</i> arrived and boy have we been happy and <i>busy</i>. <br />
<br />
As I write, Mister is taking his morning nap swaddled in his woombie and Ruby is happily watching (and dancing to) a Charlie Brown Christmas in her purple sparkly dress.<br />
We have settled into a nice little routine around here despite the absolute craziness going on around us.<br />
<br />
We are moving into the new house at the end of the week. We are living out of one kitchen cabinet with food and essentials and every spare minute has been spent packing and NOT napping like I would like.<br />
We have a tiny little Christmas tree tucked into the corner of the kitchen perched on top of Ruby's table. With all of our Christmas decor packed away we bought purple lights and some cheap colorful ornaments to Ruby's delight. I was nervous that Ruby would somehow be disappointed with the lack of decor but she thinks it's awesome! I'm not sure what I was worried about.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8284321237/" title="untitled-114 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-114" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8504/8284321237_cc8a928737_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8284312753/" title="untitled-124 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="untitled-124" height="640" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8061/8284312753_1efaa5a39f_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
Although things are crazy, life is good. Max in wonderful and Ruby is a rockstar.<br />
<br />
After meeting our little man in the hospital we decided to name him<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">Maxwell Wade Anderson</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8284275387/" title="Maxwell-147-2 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="Maxwell-147-2" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8486/8284275387_1e177d937d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
It was a tough decision but he came back from his first bath with a mohawk and we just knew he was a Max. <br />
<br />
I was a bit nervous about having a baby boy after having a girl first but let me tell you- I'd have 12 more boys if the Lord allowed (okay, maybe not 12).<br />
<br />
They are just as precious and there is something really special between a mommy and her little boy.<br />
Everyone told me it would be an instant and different kind of love but I was skeptical.<br />
And boy does it happen, and it happens <i>IMMEDIATELY</i>- the second they laid his chubby body on my chest.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8284947248/" title="November2012-348-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="November2012-348-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8352/8284947248_94554c1223_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8284969154/" title="November2012-462 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="November2012-462" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8347/8284969154_e50f9f51cf_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
All the fussiness of girls (the bows, the shoes, the clothes, the accessories) is stripped away with boys and I just get to love on a precious little bundle without all the stuff.<br />
It's kind of nice.<br />
Don't get me wrong, there is nothing more precious than a pair of pint sized ballet flats and a giant bow but I am loving the simple striped sleepers and fuzzy, non-accessorized head.<br />
<br />
Thankfully my recovery was laughably easy this time. I didn't have any stitches and let me tell you it's a completely different experience as far as recovery goes. Nursing has been pretty simple too, aside from some major overproduction in the beginning. The Lord was kind to me and thankfully within 48 hours I was making decisions out at the house and meeting with our contractor. Plus Max slept for the first 3 weeks of his life. It was quite the blessing.<br />
<br />
Max is a big boy with a smaller than average head. We have already put away his newborn clothes, which about killed me. He likes to be swaddled and loves tummy time. He is super smiley and loves it when we talk to him. He is like clockwork when it comes to eating and sleeping. He generally gives us one 5 hour stretch + another 3 hours at night. He isn't as great of a sleeper as Ruby was (yet) but we really can't complain and we are hopeful that the 8 hour stretch is just around the holiday corner.<br />
<br />
Although our days are crazy, they are wonderful and I am soaking up my baby boy and my precious 2 year old as much as I can.<br />
I'll be back to post his birth story and the meaning behind his name soon! Stay tuned (I hope it won't be another 6 weeks before I post again but I'm not making any promises).<br />
<br />
-Shan<br />
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<br />Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-69976227295289750452012-10-31T04:35:00.002-07:002012-10-31T04:35:44.211-07:00Week 36-39Written by Shannon Leigh<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8140323403/" title="October-118-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="October-118-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8323/8140323403_ef5daa98d0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8140354730/" title="October-108-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="October-108-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8332/8140354730_d221868c02_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8140355708/" title="October-3069-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="October-3069-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8471/8140355708_8d1ebd98ba_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8140355410/" title="October-3056-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="October-3056-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8194/8140355410_f774d74353_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
The end of this pregnancy has been kind of strange. <br />
I am pretty nervous this time around. I mean I am excited to meet the little man but I'm nervous too. Life is just going to change <i>so much. </i>Last time I just couldn't wait to hold my new bundle. This time, I already HAVE a bundle at home and I don't want her to feel neglected or not important… you know, it's that tremendous amount of mommy guilt. I still can't imagine loving another one the way I love my Ruby. I am sure I <i>will</i> but I just can't picture it.<br />
<br />
Besides being HUGE I have developed a multitude of random pregnancy symptoms this time around. Oh the joy.<br />
Like pregnancy induced carpel tunnel. Really? Thankfully I didn't develop it until about a week before my last wedding (around week 37) but my poor achy hands, especially at night. I finally broke down and bought some wrist braces to wear at night and that has helped tremendously. You should see me in them, they're sexy. I am just so cool. I am hoping this symptom will resolve itself shortly after delivery. My work kind of depends on my hands.<br />
<br />
The house has actually become a <i>house</i> in the last few weeks too. It's been a pretty great distraction from the long hard days that accompany any pregnancy at the end. We have paint, floors, and siding. It's coming together nicely. It's pretty nerve racking to see all of my choices coming together. This whole thing has been SUCH a long process with SO many choices. I just hope we made the right decisions. So far, so good. I am sure there will be things that we wish we would have done differently but we have been pretty pleased so far.<br />
<br />
Last Saturday I had contractions all day, 2 1/2 to 3 minutes apart. We finally decided to go into the hospital in the middle of the night because I couldn't sleep through them. Sure enough I was having contractions but I seemed to stall out at 4. They sent me home with some Tylenol PM and I slept until noon. Since then I have felt fine. I guess that's why they call it false labor. It certainly FELT like real labor. BLEH.<br />
We're still hoping that Mister decides to come this week but clearly he isn't in a hurry (and truth be told neither am I). I would love to soak up these last few days of being a family of 3. One more weekend would be nice. The midwives seem to think he is big (no kidding). They think he will be well over 8 pounds if I make it to my due date. <br />
<br />
Whatever happens I am trying to remember that God's timing is better than mine. Le sigh….<br />
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<br />Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-22280336686276884642012-10-05T02:44:00.000-07:002012-10-05T02:44:26.879-07:00weeks 33-35Written by Shannon Leigh<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8056136833/" title="Brenna -400 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="Brenna -400" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8038/8056136833_4367ebebd6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8056138770/" title="Ralph-487-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="Ralph-487-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8450/8056138770_4263179d33_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8056138464/" title="Ralph-464-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="Ralph-464-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8041/8056138464_fdced35e09_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
Man do I feel pregnant.<br />
It's actually kind of crazy how much more pregnant I feel this time around than last.<br />
This whole pregnancy thing is crazy tough on a girl's body, especially the 2nd time around (Dear Mrs. Duggar, you're nuts).<br />
<br />
It's no secret that I am not a big fan of being pregnant. It's a means to an end. You get a baby at the end and that's awesome, but truth be told the getting there kinda sucks.<br />
I know it's beautiful and a miracle and all (which it really/truly is) but it just feels to me like a big fat inconvenience with a side of discomfort. I know I sound like big fat ungrateful baby. I know I am blessed.<br />
<br />
Truthfully I have enjoyed being pregnant more this time than last time and I will slightly miss the alien movement I feel in my tummy when he's out. As far as pregnancy goes, it appears that I have great ones, so really it could be much, much worse. Although I hurt- ALOT- especially after a shoot (weddings are even worse) I feel decent most of the time. The contractions seem worse after a busy/physical day but maybe they'll make labor a little quicker this time? They have to be good for something, right? They're too uncomfortable to not be doing anything.<br />
<br />
My poor house has been so neglected as far as cleaning goes. Photography is such a physical job that I haven't had the energy to give her a good scrub down in quite awhile. I have looked into getting it professionally cleaned before Mister comes but man I just don't know if I can justify the cost. I have light fixtures to buy… for a house that I don't live in yet. Come on people.<br />
<br />
The bigger I get at this point the more real "getting him out" is. I guess that's why the end sucks so bad, so you'll have the motivation to push the little booger out. That part really isn't easy.<br />
<br />
Now that we are getting so close I am feeling a bit insecure.<br />
Will I know how to raise a boy? Will I do ok? <br />
How on earth can I love another baby the way I love Ruby? My heart feels like it may explode sometimes because I love her so much, could I possibly love another one the same way?<br />
Will a boy <i>feel</i> different?<br />
How will Ruby react? Will she feel neglected?<br />
<br />
The insecurities get me down sometimes but then I remember how sufficient and abundant God's grace really is and how fully he loves me.<br />
No matter how much I love my babies, my Jesus loves <i>me</i> infinitely more. The plans he has for me are so much better than the plans I could have made for myself. Remembering this in the moments of chaos is key.<br />
<br />
I'll be "full term" in a week and a half. YIKES…. but We'll see when Mister decides to make his appearance- I am betting at least a week after his due date:)<br />
<br />
Stay tuned!<br />
<br />
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<br />Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-92017085100072917132012-09-20T12:53:00.001-07:002012-09-20T12:53:36.110-07:00Family Photos 2012- Waiting on MisterWritten by Shannon Leigh<br />
<br />
Yes we are waiting on Mister… but enjoying our family just as it is too.<br />
You can check the rest <a href="http://shannonleighanderson.com/blog/?p=3665">HERE</a>.<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8006970804/" title="Andersonfam-288 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="Andersonfam-288" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8182/8006970804_e52018114d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8006970658/" title="Andersonfam-262 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="Andersonfam-262" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8309/8006970658_7633c53b3d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/8006966457/" title="Andersonfam-293 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="Andersonfam-293" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8037/8006966457_bfbf5fd5b1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a>Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-33922104411916439972012-09-17T14:12:00.000-07:002012-09-17T14:12:16.010-07:00Week 31 & 32Written by Shannon Leigh<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7995797182/" title="Brenna -389-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="Brenna -389-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8036/7995797182_4de050f6e0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7995797774/" title="Brenna -409-2 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="Brenna -409-2" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8436/7995797774_a155edb179_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Is it really true that Mister and I only have 7 weeks left? AHH, I'm so not ready. I'm pretty ready to not be pregnant any more but I am really not ready to have 2 kids…ha.<br />
Without having a baby room to get ready I feel kind of strange. There is only so much I can do without a crib, and walls to paint, and art to make, etc. Plus the fact that I am insanely busy with building a house and working.<br />
My body is a bit worn down but I am still feel pretty good for the most part.<br />
<br />
I started having contractions during week 32. They are pretty annoying but they aren't the real thing and only come occasionally. I didn't have a single contraction with Ruby until I was in active labor so MAYBE that means the baby will come more on time this time?<br />
Probably not.<br />
<br />
In house news we are completely framed and shingled. We have exterior windows and doors and and amazing clawfoot tub sitting in the master bedroom just waiting for my aching bones. Plumbing and electricity are supposed to be in this week! <br />
Both my body and the house are coming along as they should (mostly).<br />
We'll be back soon with more news!<br />
<br />Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-69138492681521308042012-09-04T17:54:00.003-07:002012-09-04T17:54:27.292-07:00Week 29 and 30Written by Shannon Leigh<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7933561650/" title="IMG_0683-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0683-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8456/7933561650_07b464abf4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7933562380/" title="IMG_0724-2 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0724-2" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8462/7933562380_c39f78ab14_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
Since we are now well into week 31 it's hard to remember the happenings of 29 and 30.<br />
<br />
I know I am starting to feel really pregnant now and I still have a LONG WAY to go. That's kind of depressing but we are now into the single digits as far as weeks go. THAT feels good, at the same time I am not sure if I am quite ready for 2 babies. <br />
I am kind of focused on making it through my last 6 weddings and countless shoots. September is crazy. <br />
I like to pretend that I'm not pregnant and it works most of the time. I'm staying mentally strong, that's what I keep telling myself anyway. Mind over matter.<br />
Mister is really growing now and my belly has finally popped out there. ha.<br />
He has the hiccups 19 thousand times a day and rolls around like crazy. We are still not sure if he is head down or breech. I personally think he flips all the time… if they aren't sure in a few weeks we will do a scan. I'll do whatever it takes to flip him if he is breech but only time will tell.<br />
<br />
With Ruby I couldn't WAIT to go to the doctor every few weeks now I just find them annoying, can't I just tell them when I go into labor? We've got plenty of time… trust me.<br />
<br />
The house is mostly framed now! It should be finished by the end of the week.<br />
Now we are starting to get to pick out the finishing touches! Yikes, talk about pressure. SO MANY DECISIONS!<br />
<br />Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-21622508898260484102012-08-22T15:17:00.001-07:002012-08-22T15:17:37.617-07:00Then & NowWritten by Shannon Leigh<br />
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Ruby on the beach.<br />
Charleston, SC.</div>
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Then...</div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/6191341282/" title="IMG_0795-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0795-1" height="427" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6021/6191341282_2f2bb0a125_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/6190816737/" title="IMG_0788-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_0788-1" height="427" src="http://farm7.staticflickr.com/6132/6190816737_b40838c5e1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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{September 3, 2011}</div>
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And</div>
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Now…</div>
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7841025066/" title="South Carolina-232-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="South Carolina-232-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8442/7841025066_5614134a83_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
{August 5, 2012}<br />
<br />
What a difference a year makes!</div>
Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-48484383385344727322012-08-21T08:23:00.002-07:002012-08-21T08:23:23.549-07:00Week 28Written by Shannon Leigh<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7798529902/" title="IMG_7845-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7845-1" height="426" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8448/7798529902_ddfb44fc52_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Week 28 was a little slower than the rest of my summer so far and I really enjoyed catching up on some things around the house. I finally got around to sorting through Mister's clothes and baby toys. I am so very grateful to my sister who very generously gave me her boys clothes. I won't have to buy much of anything, which is awesome!<br />
It's funny how different things are with baby #2. It's also funny how GIRLY everything I have is. Luckily the big stuff is gender neutral but all the little stuff is so very not.<br />
<br />
I plan on working on blankets/bedding/various other projects over the next few weeks but we don't actually have a nursery since we are currently living in a 2 bedroom place. My nesting bug is being squashed in a big way. <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">C'est la vie. It is what it is, I suppose.</span><br />
<br />
My cheeks are getting much fuller these days which must means we are getting closer to meeting mister. I am so ready to snuggle him in my arms and rub my lips on his perfect head. Oh yeah and I'm ready to not be pregnant any more. We've still got a long time to go!<br />
<br />Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-46556573327787727082012-08-13T07:36:00.000-07:002012-08-13T07:36:35.851-07:00Week 25-27Written by Shannon Leigh<br />
<br />
Mister and I are officially in the last trimester!<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7773017322/" title="IMG_5381 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5381" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8307/7773017322_64f351ea9c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7773018614/" title="week 26 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="week 26" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8424/7773018614_5d4ee9cafe_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7773019944/" title="IMG_7802-2 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_7802-2" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8440/7773019944_dd81e71d42_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
Week 25<br />
Mister really started to roll around in my belly. He started to dance around constantly and wake me up in the middle of the night. I don't remember Ruby waking me up in the night so I am super worried this little guy is a wild one.<br />
Week 26<br />
We spent all of week 26 in Charleston, South Carolina. I seriously underestimated my discomfort level on the 14 hour road trip but we survived with zero accidents from a potty trained little girl and a pretty prego mama. Fortunately on the way home he was kind enough to move out of my lungs and I was much more comfortable. We had a lovely time in Charleston (hopefully I will post some pictures at some point).<br />
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Week 27</div>
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We entered the 3rd trimester this week and I can't believe how fast this pregnancy is going! I am really entering the nesting phase which is difficult since we are living in a temporary residence. I am </div>
<br />
feeling quite unsettled and on shaky ground. I know it's only temporary and I'm trying to just focus on what's really important instead of all of the "stuff."<br />
Speaking of "stuff" we HAVE WALLS at least on the basement of the house. We also have plumbing. They are supposed to start framing this week- WOO HOO!<br />
<br />
<br />Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-52312725688963587942012-07-22T06:36:00.001-07:002012-07-22T06:36:43.465-07:00Week 24Written by Shannon Leigh<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7621691980/" title="IMG_5397 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_5397" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7274/7621691980_5fb2e8a1d0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Week 24 was a big one!<br />
<br />
Mister is really really active. I don't remember Ruby being this active but you tend to forget these things so who knows!<br />
He has officially started waking me up in the middle of the night with his acrobatics. I am starting to think he is no longer breech or at least not breech all the time. I am feeling some pretty big jabs on the sides of my belly.<br />
I still feel great and I LOVE being prego in the summer. Everyone always complains about being pregnant in the summer but I am loving the flowy skirts and dresses. I was majorly pregnant all winter last time so I prefer the flowing stuff compared to the restrictive jeans and sweaters.<br />
<br />
Week 24 also came with some BIG house updates… we have a HOLE! A big giant, gaping, dusty hole!<br />
I wish it were more than a hole, especially since we are already 3 to 4 weeks behind but hey, it's progress!<br />
I kind of feel like I am birthing 2 babies at the same time. The preparing, dreaming, hoping etc is all very much the same (and obviously incredibly different).<br />
Things could get interesting over the next few months!<br />
<br />
<br />Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-10221340106215502682012-07-14T06:02:00.000-07:002012-07-14T06:02:12.854-07:00Week 22 & 23Written by Shannon Leigh<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7531279638/" title="Johnson-603 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="Johnson-603" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8288/7531279638_2a8d34de6d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7557953856/" title="Day-128 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="Day-128" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8161/7557953856_42e8628a98_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
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The last few weeks have really flown by.</div>
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During week 22 we got to see Mister via sono. He was so darn cute I could hardly stand it. He moved around a ton and sucked his thumb. He was also very obviously a boy- not that we were doubting it.</div>
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The sono also confirmed what I already suspected, Mister is currently breach. He kicks all the time but the kicks are low and have been since I started feeling him move. I've been a little concerned about this but I'm trying to trust that he will turn at some point. Ruby was pretty much head down the the whole time. I know we have plenty of time but I'd appreciate some prayers!</div>
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The bright side of him being breech is that we got some AWESOME profiles shots of his little face. He's got a sweet squishy nose and he kept touching his face with his hands.</div>
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I have had 3 weddings in a row and I am tired. Luckily this coming week is slow. I am hoping I can get caught up and spend some good quality time with Ruby (although we will have 3 dogs in the duplex since I am watching my sisters 2 dogs-yikes). </div>
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Another HUGE happening in our house is that RUBY IS POTTY TRAINED! Woo hoo! She hadn't had an accident in undies in about a week and only has to wear a diaper at nap and bed time! </div>
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We still can't believe how fast it went once she grasped the concept. It just took a few days. I am so relieved. I really wanted her potty trained by the time Mister showed up. Here's to hoping she doesn't regress when he's born!</div>
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Check back for week 24, it's sure to be interesting!</div>
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<br /></div>Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-3491003894215103042012-07-05T08:32:00.002-07:002012-07-05T08:32:20.849-07:00Week 21Written by Shannon Leigh<br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7480863998/" title="Johnson-580 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="Johnson-580" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7110/7480863998_d930bb1f07_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<br />
Week 21 was good.<br />
I was super busy with shoots and other personal projects but somehow we managed to make it through. :)<br />
It's crazy how pregnant I FEEL this time around. Honestly I don't remember feeling very prego until the late 20's last time and I'm already starting to feel the strain this time around. But I've got SO much longer to go.<br />
My job is a lot more physical now than it was with Ruby and that might have something to do with it. I can't believe how limited I already feel. Who knows. All I know is that I have a long way to go and I need to suck up the aches and pains:)<br />
<br />
In some fun news: I am pretty sure I have started to feel his little hiccups! That's always fun/annoying!<br />
<br />
<br />Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6181182784057382362.post-13052423232795066332012-06-28T06:46:00.001-07:002012-06-28T06:52:01.791-07:00Black & White SundayWritten by Shannon Leigh<br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7454496516/" title="IMG_9422-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9422-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8155/7454496516_e40a88fd69_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7454408870/" title="IMG_9387-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9387-1" height="640" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7271/7454408870_1fcf946677_z.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7454507996/" title="IMG_9430-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9430-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8008/7454507996_1cbbcbb406_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7454494622/" title="IMG_9421-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9421-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8020/7454494622_007f162cd3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7454503952/" title="IMG_9427-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9427-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8154/7454503952_0b7115380a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7454511946/" title="IMG_9432-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9432-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8017/7454511946_c23e7373f0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7454518406/" title="IMG_9437-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9437-1" height="427" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7265/7454518406_2e297e0869_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/shannonleighanderson/7454521768/" title="IMG_9439-1 by Shannon Leigh Anderson, on Flickr"><img alt="IMG_9439-1" height="427" src="http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8152/7454521768_ea4efbb841_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
{June 3, 2012}</div>Shannon Leigh Andersonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11655418651109146247noreply@blogger.com1