Footprints in the Sand

What is Love?

2012-02-14T15:15:00.001+01:00

To me, love is tiny baby feet

Love is early morning toddler hugs, kisses and cuddles

Love is an amazing husband who knows that the way to my heart is through anything covered in chocolate...

Love are cards that are made with lots of love and care for the most import an person in our lives....

Joyeuse Saint-Valentin!!

I hope you all have a day filled with love. Don't forget to tell those you care for how important they are not just today but as often as you can.

"It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye." - Antoine de Saint-Exupery

"On ne voit bien qu'avec le coeur. L'essentiel est invisible pour les yeux."

Pinterest make me pretty

2012-02-12T14:30:00.000+01:00

When Blogher asked me to write about the blog or youtube channel that I use more often for style and hair tips, I have to admit I was stuck.

Stuck because while I follow some fashion and style blogs there isn't one that I go to when I am looking for ideas.

In fact, when I am searching for ideas I usually turn to my trusted friend, Pinterest. With just a quick search I find myself browsing through so many amazing ideas. I usually stumble upon some great bloggers with some great ideas that I would have never found otherwise.

I mean, check out some of these beauties that I've pinned and tried:

1. Quick and easy up do, for when a ponytail is just too plain

source: The Small Things Blog

2. The Sock Bun - because really where else other than Pinterest would I have ever learned to use a sock as a hair accessory?

Source: Be different, act Normal Blog

3. The Beach Wave Curl - because sometimes I need to use my flat iron for something else other than straightening my hair!

Source: The Wander Forest Blog

You can see why Pinterest is my go to place. I would have never found any of these super cute blogs or tutorials on my own.

Of course there are some tutorials that are hit or miss, but that's the risk we take right?

What about you? Please tell me some of your go to blogs or sites for hair ideas. I would love to check some of them out! And if you aren't doing so already, be sure to follow me on Pinterest!

Also, be sure to stop by BlogHer and read some of the other great places that other bloggers turn to for ideas. While you are there, be sure to check out their Life Well Lived Sweepstakes!

Valentine dessert and cocktail recipe

2012-02-10T12:48:00.001+01:00

I can't believe that Valentine's Day is only a few days away! To be honest I have never really been into celebrating Valentine's Day. After having kids it just became too much of a hassle to try and find sitter simply to go to an overcrowded restaurant.

So, more and more, we have opted to celebrate at home after the kids have gone to bed.

This is why it is nice to try and find creative ways to make our Valentine menu not like any other dinner at home. That is why this year I am stepping it up in the dessert and cocktail category.

Remember the crepe recipe I shared last week? Well, I started out with my basic crepe recipe.

To make them more festive I added just a couple of drops of food coloring to make them pink. Remember food coloring goes a long way so just a couple of drops will do.

After they were cooked I filled mine with Nutella but your favorite filling will do. I then folded them (they are typically served in quarters and not like burritos) and tried to not to eat them before decorating them.

For the extra special touch I cut out a heart out of some scrap paper and used that as a template to sprinkle powdered sugar and cocoa powder.

Voila, the perfect Valentine dessert.

We can't forget about a cocktail to go with these delicious crepes - enter the delicious Kir Royal.

The Kir is a typical aperitif (cocktail before the meal) here in France and it consists of white wine with a flavored liqueur.

A Kir Royal takes it a step above by using champagne in place of the white wine.

source

The recipe is also quite easy. Fill the bottom of a champagne flute with your flavored liqueur of choice, I love to use Chambord but Creme de Cassis is also good.

Fill it about 1/4 of the way full and then top with chilled champagne and enjoy!

For that extra special touch you could add either a fresh or frozen raspberry in the flute.

I can't wait to have both of these next week! Let me know if you try either of these!

Hey Mr. Postman

2012-02-09T13:55:00.000+01:00

I had only been living in France a week and I could only say "bonjour" and "au revoir". I was "working from home" due to a small issue with my work visa so I didn't need to know much anyway.

While I was typing away at my computer, I heard it; the distinctive buzzing of the building's main door.

Since I didn't know anyone in France, I decided to ignore the buzzing in hopes that whoever it was would go away. The buzzing became more insistent and so I hesitantly answered the intercom with my confident "bonjour".

BIG MISTAKE!

Whoever it was started going off in French!

Excusez-moi!?

I buzzed this person in and opened the door to our apartment, waiting patiently. Except that after five minutes no one showed up.

Then the buzzing began AGAIN! What in the world was going on?

I closed the door and headed down the elevator to see who was actually ringing.

That's when I saw him. The postman with a registered letter. He started talking and talking; I just smiled and nodded. From his expression I gathered that he wanted some sort of response but I had nothing to offer. After what seemed like an eternity he finally handed the pen and clipboard over so that I could sign. And then I REALLY screwed up!

I signed where I should have printed my name!

Quelle horror!

The way the postman reacted you would have thought I killed his mother! He raised his voice, hands were flying and my eyes were welling up with tears.

I finally got it right, he handed me my letter and we were both on our way.

I was shaken up the entire afternoon . When Cornel finally came home, I started crying as I recounted my encounter with "La Poste".

It took months before I found the nerve to respond to the buzzer. I won't even tell you how long it took me to answer the phone!

Wine Love

2012-02-08T15:21:00.001+01:00

This past Sunday we went to the Annual "Vinidome" Festival here in Clermont-Ferrand. Vineyards from all over France come to show off their wine and many people flock to stock up their caves.

We bought so much wine at last year's festival (remember how I had to kick Nathan out of his stroller), that we received a private invitation from one of the vineyards.

The bitter cold and snow wasn't going to keep us away. We dropped off Nathan at our friends' home and headed out with Noah in tow. There is no better way to drink wine, than with the baby in the carrier. I wish I could say I was the only one, but there were many women with the same brilliant idea.

And since Nathan wasn't with us, we had the stroller empty to bring home the cases of wine that we purchased! (That is Noah under all of those blankets). Who knew strollers could be so multi-functional?

Is is too early to start making my wish list for next year?

"God made only water, but man made wine." - Victor Hugo, 1856

Dear Nathan...

2012-02-07T14:59:00.002+01:00

Dear Nathan,

What a month we've had together. You were sick for most of the month thanks to a nasty virus that you picked up a daycare. It is always hard when you are sick, I hate to see you hurting and not be able to take your pain away. The only thing we could do was hold you and kiss away your "bo bo's". We would hold you extra close at night waiting for that fever to go away. And in almost 2 1/2 years, you still detest taking your medicine.

You have grown so much lately, and I don't know when it happened but your footie pajamas no longer fit. Your little toes are busting out at the seam and it breaks my heart to buy the next size up. If only I could keep you my baby forever. Even when we pick you up in our arms, it is clear that you are so much bigger than you were just a few weeks ago.

You have turned into quite the little monkey lately and love to climb on anything and everything you can. It has certainly made keeping an eye on you very difficult. There was the day I found you climbing on your toy car to get to the cheese in the fridge. I wonder if the baby proofing can begin after two years?

Even though there are some trying times, the terrible two's haven't been so terrible. We constantly stare at you in amazement. Sometimes we are in awe of how much fun we are having with you. You have such a pure heart and it shows with the amount of love that you give your brother. You are constantly looking out for him; always rushing to him when he cries. You are making an amazing big brother.

We love you more than you can imagine.

Color my Heart Happy

2012-02-03T15:08:00.001+01:00

The past couple of weeks have been rough around here. Last week Nathan brought home a virus from daycare and graciously shared it with the rest of the household. He is nothing if not generous.

This meant days of us staying at home trying to recover. And let me tell you, recovering with a two year old suffering from cabin-fever and a newborn who needs constant attention sucks!

There was very little sleep; a lot of screaming (not all from me) and maybe some crying (again, not all from me).

I was desperate and needed a way to keep my two year old busy.

I am not much for indoor activities and I don't do well with arts and crafts (that is why I pay an arm and a leg for daycare, remember?).

In a fit of hysteria, I took out some red construction paper that I had left over and began cutting hearts. I have to admit that I haven't cut paper hearts since I was in middle school. Considering how much time has passed, I thought they looked pretty good.

When I used up the red construction paper, I took to the white printer paper and continued the heart madness.

I then set Nathan up at his table, gave him crayons and markers and let him go to town. He recognizes the shape so he was so excited to see hearts, although he says it more like "haaarrrss".

He colored away for at least 20 minutes. A lifetime in toddler time.

After he was done, I took out the tape and placed it on the back of the hearts.

He then had another good 15 minutes of arranging and rearranging them on the doors.

Cute right?

He quickly lost interest, but now these gorgeous hearts decorate our house for Valentine's Day. What's more is that I got more than a half an hour of "mom" time.

It was a win-win!

Half of us are still suffering from the virus, but luckily Nathan went back to daycare where they occupy his time much better than with paper hearts!

How do you decorate for Valentine's Day? Or better yet, how do you occupy your toddler when confined indoors?

The Crepe Holiday

2012-02-02T17:06:00.001+01:00

Today is "La Chanadaleur" in France, or Candlemas. Like most holidays in France it is of course tied to religion. Today is the "Feast of the Presentation of Jesus at the Temple."

The best part of "La Chandaleur", at least here in France, is that the day is celebrated with crepes! Tradition is that the crepes have to be eaten after 8pm and if the person can flip the crepe in the pan, good luck with come to the family for the entire year.

And here is something interesting I learned in France, crepes are always sweet and for dessert; the savory ones with cheese and hams are called galettes.

Cute, right?

Well, I couldn't wait until the evening to celebrate such a delicious holiday and so I set out to make crepes early this morning.

Now, I have tried to make crepes from scrap. The recipe is super simple but like with all simple recipes they never turn out right for me. I think the problem is that I'm supposed to let the batter rest for about a half an hour in the fridge and I want instant gratification. Who has time to let the batter set?

So while all of the French who read this will scoff, I use this beauty:

Crepe Mix! I will never find a cake mix in France, but a crepe mix - no problem! Add milk and butter and voila - Instant crepes. No waiting! But for you purists, I have included the traditional recipe below.

So in about fifteen minutes I had whipped up the crepes and all that was left was filling them and eating them (definitely the best part)!

My favorite is always Nutella, because well, Nutella goes with everything right? But because I was making these for Nathan too, I added banana to the the Nutella because fruit is healthy.

I also filled them with confiture (jam) and cream cheese (because Nathan is obsessed with cream cheese).

After snacking on one (or three) I made a little plate for Nathan to enjoy. I even added a little French flag for fun.

Needless to say, they were a hit!

And now as promised, the recipe!

Crepes

1 cup of flour
2 eggs
2 cups of milk
2 Tbs melted butter
1 pinch of salt
2 tsp of sugar (optional for sweeter crepes)

In a small bowl beat whisk the eggs. Then add in the flour.

Slowly add the milk to the flour and egg mixture.

Finally add the butter and salt (and sugar if desired). Mix until everything is incorporated.

Refrigerate the mixture for at least half an hour.

Heat a skillet and lightly butter. Ladle some batter onto the hot skillet making sure to cover the bottom. After a few minutes, flip the crepe until golden on both sides.

Fill with your desired fillings and enjoy!

The Music of my Life

2012-01-30T12:16:00.000+01:00

Have you ever thought about the music that defines your life? The soundtrack that would play when you look back on everything you've done and experienced?

While listening to my iTunes, it was hard to determine all of the different music that would define all of the different stages of my life; to document the different person I've become throughout the years.

The Younger Years - Growing up I loved dancing and performing. If only it were for my complete lack of talent I might have been famous.

10: Cyndi Lauper - Girls Just Want to Have Fun
9: ABBA - Dancing Queen

The Teen Years - Aren't everyone's teen years the same? First kisses, first loves, first heartbreaks. Fickle friendships and true friendships. It's all about discovering the type of person you might become in the future.

8. Deana Carter - Strawberry Wine
7. Blink 182 - Dammnit (This song completely describes my high school years)

The College Years: The best and worst years of my life. The years I would never trade for anything in the world.

6. Dave Matthews Band - #34 (Dave Matthews defined my college life)

The Young Adult Years - When I left Arizona and everything I knew behind in search of something better in South Carolina.

5. 30 Seconds to Mars - The Kill

The New Beginning-

4. Lenny Kravitz - I Belong to You

The First Born - The magic moment of laying eyes on your child for the first time.

3. Calogero - Je m'appelle Nathan (My name is Nathan). This song actually is about childhood autism and I encourage you to listen to it and watch the video even if you don't speak French. The words are simply beautiful and it came out at the very same time that my own Nathan was born. Listening to it still makes me cry to this very day.

Expanding the Family- The anticipation and excitement of growing your family. The loving someone that you haven't met yet!

2. Michael Buble - Haven't Met you Yet

Learning to be a family of four, and looking at the 3 amazing men in my life the only song that could possibly fit:

1. The Beach Boys - God Only Knows

Maternity Leave Woes

2012-01-26T12:14:00.002+01:00

This week my precious baby will turn 6 weeks old. If I were still in the US I would be getting ready to head back to work, but in France I still have another 10 glorious weeks to enjoy.

There was never a question, however, when either of my kids was born on whether or not I would be going back to work. I will be returning to work. (This won't be a post about working mothers vs. stay at home mothers I promise, because I know that SAHM's work their tails off!).

The decision about going back to work was definitely NOT financial since lord only knows half my salary goes to the daycare. In fact, once Noah starts going to daycare I might just have my paycheck direct deposited into the daycare's account. The decision was mostly for my sanity.

You see, I adore my children. They are the most important thing in the world to me - which is why I send them to daycare. It is truly beneficial to both parties if we do not spend all day together.

At daycare they do fun activities - painting, drawing, socializing, cooking, field trips; at home they do activities like - unrolling the toilet paper, drawing on the furniture, playing with kitchen appliances and the like.

At daycare - they have friends, real friends that they play with and interact with. At home - they have imaginary friends and the voices inside mommy's head because she's stayed at home too long.

At daycare they learn to speak French, at home they learn the occasional curse word (sad but true).

And in all honesty, I crave that adult interaction that I wouldn't get otherwise. I love being able to get dressed in the morning and have somewhere to go (even if it is to work). I love being to have a conversation with adults that does not revolve around nap schedules or toddler bowel movements.

I also see the joy of my son at daycare. He loves his teachers. He loves his his "friends". And they have much cooler toys than we do at home. He is thriving at daycare, and I don't know if he would be so far advanced if he were at home with me.

I enjoy going to work and being something other than mom (not that being a mom is a bad thing to be). And the best part, when we get home and I see my son after not having seen him all day, I crave spending time with him. I want to spend as much time as I can with him before his bedtime.

The time I spend with him might not be a lot, but he has all of me. I give him the best quality time, and I give him the best of me!

Noah One Month

2012-01-25T11:02:00.003+01:00

Can I already say that Noah is suffering from second baby syndrome? The poor kid turned one month last week and I completely forgot about it!

Well, not completely, I did remember to go to his doctor's appointment so I guess that Mommy Brain works every once in a while.

To say that this month has been rough would be an understatement. It has been such an adjustment going from one to two. And it still feels so weird to be a family of four rather than a family of three.

Even though it has been rough, that isn't to say that it hasn't been good. Noah has already grown so much in just four weeks. He is spending more time awake (although it's in the middle of the night) and is more aware of the world around him.

We went on our first family outing when he was two weeks old and he did great. So great in fact, that we take up any opportunity to take him out. We are still keeping with our tradition of breakfast out on Saturdays and he has been a trooper.

He is definitely strong and stubborn, I don't know who he takes after. He kicks his little legs and can wiggle his way around his crib. He is also cooing up a storm which can at times make up for the sleepless nights. He is waking up once at night to eat, but the problem is that once he is up, he's up. It can take nearly 2-3 hours to get him back down.

Luckily this past month I've had a ton of help. Noah was completely spoiled by spending Christmas with his Aunt and Uncle from Romania and his Nana from Arizona. What a blessing to have been able to bring him home just in time for Christmas.

Age - 1 month 1 week

Weight - 3.4 KG's, 7 1/2 lbs ( a 1 1/2 pound weight gain)

Height - 52 cm or 20 1/2 inches (a 2 inch gain)

Eating - I am breastfeeding exclusively which is a HUGE change from Nathan who had to be bottle fed with expressed milk. In a way it is so much harder because obviously I am the one that has to feed him. There have been days when I want to just quit and for the moment I am very aware that every day is another day longer that I've breastfed him. I am hoping that this gets easier for both of us.

Sleeping - It has gotten much better! He is only waking up about once at night and averaging a feeding about ever four hours. It makes such a difference on my sanity to get four straight hours of sleep.

I am looking forward to seeing how he grows up this next month. I know that his big brother is anxious to play with him.

Pausing Life for a Moment

2012-01-24T06:32:00.001+01:00

I am so excited today because I am guest posting at JDaniel4's Mom's place on Pausing Life for a Moment!

I am completely in love with her blog and her creativity, so imagine how honored I was when she asked!

Please stop by and visit me over there, and while you are there enjoy some of her other amazing posts.

If you are visiting me for the first time from her blog, please take some time and look around.

I'm an American expat living in France with my husband and two boys.

I hope you enjoy taking a look around. Thank you again JDaniel4's mom!

Sticking With It

2012-01-20T17:12:00.000+01:00

I think I've already mentioned that I don't tend to make too many New Year Resolutions. That doesn't mean that there aren't things that I need to do differently. Quite the opposite actually.

Like many of you, I too need to work out more; eat better; and make positive changes. The difficult part is always trying to stick with it. There are always so many other things to take priority that these just seem to fall to the wayside. And isn't always hard to chose between the salad and those yummy fries?

So this year I've decided to change the way I approach my resolutions to help me stick with them.

1. Set realistic expectations. Why set myself up for disappointment before I even begin. Giving up chocolate completely might be impossible for me but I can definitely cut back on my weekly consumption. It's all about baby steps, right?

2. Don't do it alone. I know how hard it is to want to eat better when no one else in my family is doing it. Here I am munching on a carrot stick while my husband is enjoying a nice baked potato with all the trimmings.

So rather than cracking to temptation, I get the family involved. We take the kids to the park to enjoy a nice game of family football. It's much easier to stick to it if the family gets involved plus who couldn't use some more quality family time?

3. Set some dedicated time. Life always gets in the way, doesn't it. Work meetings come up, kids get sick and it's so easy to pretend we didn't make those resolutions. So it's easy to schedule a weekly aerobics class with a friend (see #2) so that I always know what days a week I will be working out. Plus if you're like me, you feel too guilty to call up that friend to say you don't feel like going.

4. Re-evaluate and Recommit. I have to remember why I made the resolution to begin with. Was it to lose a few pounds, or to make a lifestyle change? It shouldn't just be a resolution I make at the beginning of each January. I make the resolution at the beginning of every day, every week or every month. What sounded good in theory at the beginning of the year while on a holiday coma might not be realistic in June.

5. Reward myself for a job well done. It's part of our human nature, isn't it? To be rewarded for working hard? Why shouldn't I reward myself for a job well done? If I kept up with my resolutions all week, I deserve that hard earned glass of wine, right? Or maybe just a trip to the movies - without the kids.

What are some of the resolutions you made this year? How are you making sure to keep them?

Be sure to vista BlogHer for more ideas on how to keep your New Year's Resolutions. While you are there be sure to enter their Life Well Lives Sweepstakes!

Pure Joy

2012-01-19T15:23:00.001+01:00

When we first met I could not have imagined the joy that you would bring into my life.

You showed me the joy of living...

You showed me the joy of laughing...

You showed me the joy of loving...

You showed me the joy of exploring new things...

You showed me the joy of family....

In all things that you do. You show me the joy of being a family.

You are so much more than my husband. You are my shoulder to cry on. You are my punching bag on bad days. You are my sunshine on good days. You are the one that holds my hand when I doubt myself. You are the one that can make me so mad and the one that can make me laugh hysterically.

You are my best friend.

You are my life.

Happy Birthday.

I love you!

Love Equality

2012-01-16T12:13:00.000+01:00

It's the great American dream isn't it?

Fall madly in love with someone, get married, have children, buy a home and live happily ever after.

What happens though when your "happily ever after" is threatened because the government refuses to "recognize" your marriage?

What they don't tell you is that the American dream doesn't apply to you if you are married to someone of the same sex.

This is the battle that Mark is fighting right now. He has been with his husband Fred for over 22 years. They were legally married and are raising four beautiful kids. They have a home that is filled with love and strength, and yet the American government is threatening to split this family up.

Fred is a French National whose visa expired in September of this year and even though he is married to an American citizen the government cannot recognize their marriage for immigration purposes. This means that Fred risks deportation and this family risks being torn apart.

You can read this struggle in Mark's own words here. I urge you to go and see this beautiful family.

The past few months I have gotten to know Mark. He is truly a wonderful and supportive human being. It is terrible that he is having to go through this right now.

It amazes me that even in the year 2012 the United States refuses to recognize marriages of any kind. A family isn't built by a man and a woman, a family is built by two people who care about each other and who pass that love on to others. Their family is no different than mine or yours or millions of others across the world.

So please, if you want to help, please take the time to write a letter in support of Mark and Fred. We are constantly writing every day: text messages, Facebook comments, twitter updates and emails. Take an extra five minutes and write a heartfelt letter to keep this family together, or better yet call in support.

In Marks own words:

"You can write to Homeland Security Secretary, Janet Napolitano. And if you live in Pennsylvania, you can write to Senator Casey's office. Both, on our behalf. You can let them know that you read the story on StopTheDeportations.com or that you know of our story from another source. If you do this, I would urge you to, as best you can, write it when you're in a good mood. No one likes a nasti-gram ... You read my post that I copied fromStopTheDeportations.com. You know that we are asking for approval of our green-card application. Or at the very least, held in abeyance and not denied. And in fact, actual letters and phone calls are the best."

Contact Info:

Senator Robert P. Casey, Jr.

393 Russell Senate Office Building

Washington, D.C. 20510

Phone: (202) 224-6324

Toll Free: (866) 802-2833

Fax: (202) 228-0604

Secretary Janet Napolitano

Department of Homeland Security

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Washington, D.C. 20528

202-282-8000

I hope that in the future my children will never have to know such inequality and that we can one day grow as people to recognize love comes in all colors, shapes, sizes and genders.

Dear Nathan...

2012-01-10T14:30:00.001+01:00

Nathan turned 26 months on Saturday and I realized that I can no longer keep counting his age in months. I can't imagine saying one day "my son is 53 months old". He is two years old and is growing up every day. I used to do monthly updates but that no longer seems relevant.

I have a friend who writes monthly letters to her son, something which I love. So rather than keep posting monthly updates I want to begin writing letters to Nathan. Letters that I hope he will read one day, letters that I can look back on and remember all of these special moments in his life.

So today, I will share my first letter.

Dear Nathan,

We spent this month surrounded by family and you loved every single second of it. It was so amazing to see you play with your aunt and uncle. To see how you warmed up to them even after not having seen them for over a year. You would wake up every morning asking for them and go to bed every night telling them goodnight.

You've also been loving spending time with your grandmother "Nana". I don't know who will suffer more when she is gone you or her. After spending an entire month with her you now speak more Spanish than ever, which is keeping all of us on our toes. She tucks you in every night and sings to you. You wake up asking for her and immediately run to her when you need to be spoiled. Every child should be loved and spoiled this way by grandparents.

Even though Christmas is over, you still ask for Santa and run around the house saying "Ho Ho Ho Merry Mismas". It is so endearing and it is clear that the Christmas magic has stayed with you.

You are turning into such a wonderful and caring young boy. You have amazed us with your love and tenderness for your little brother. You love to share your milk with him even though he won't drink it and you give unprompted kisses when he is crying. You also love to tell him to "pleure pas bebe" which means "don't cry baby" as you console him.

We can't tell you how much fun we are having with you and how lucky we feel to have you in our lives.

Mommy & Daddy

Pretty as a picture

2012-01-04T17:21:00.000+01:00

There is something about maternity photography that I just love. There is something so beautiful about a woman and a family waiting for a new arrival. When I was pregnant with my first I couldn't wait to take maternity pictures. To capture those special moments before meeting Nathan.

I found a photographer in Clermont and had my session scheduled for 36 weeks. Then Nathan decided to throw a curve ball and show up before I ever got to take any pictures. I did have my monthly belly shots, but nothing like I had imagined.

Then I got pregnant with Noah and all I dreamed about was those perfect maternity pictures.

We have an amazing friend, Kim who is also an amazing photographer. She and her husband were also expatriated in Clermont but moved back to South Carolina in June. I was lucky enough to have her take pictures of Nathan when he was only 7 months old. That is why when I found out she would be back in France during the month of December, I begged her to do a maternity session for me.

I was ecstatic when she said yes, and was even more ecstatic that I was still pregnant when the time came to have the photo session!

She did an amazing job, and I have to admit that I almost cried when I received the beautiful CD with the pictures. It is exactly what I had in mind and it captured so wonderfully our *almost* family of four.

I can't thank Kim enough for capturing these special moments in my family's life. (All photos courtesy and copyrights of Kimberly Cabe Photography)

I was not compensated at all for this post, I just love Kim and her work. If you are looking for a photographer in Upstate South Carolina be sure to check her out here or on Facebook.

Two Different Babies

2012-01-03T17:26:00.000+01:00

I will never forget the experience of Nathan being born a preemie. He couldn't regulate his body temperature and spent days in an incubator. He had severe jaundice and spent hours in the "tunnel". He was quickly losing weight and I wasn't allowed to let him nurse but rather had to supplement formula in a cup. We spent nearly two weeks in the hospital and I remember crying each and every single day. He had bruises all over his feet and hands from all of the blood tests. I didn't get to hold him or cuddle him because he had to be in the incubator. For a first time mother, it is one of the worst things that can happen to you. There is are very little words that can describe that type of helplessness.

Things didn't improve when we came home. He would cry - all the time. Who could blame him - he was hungry and wasn't allowed to nurse with a bottle. It would take us hours to feed him a few ounces. It was frustrating for everyone.

When Noah was born at "full term", I had no idea what to expect. I mean could a couple of weeks - 10 days really make such a difference. I feared the worst.

He took to nursing, but I was filled with self doubt. I wasn't able to nurse Nathan so I didn't know if I was even doing it correctly, but he gained weight. We were released from the hospital in five days. There was no jaundice. There was no need for an incubator. There were no blood tests. I was paranoid and kept asking the nurses and the doctors "is this normal?".

I am amazed at the tranquility that Noah has compared to Nathan. He wakes up once to eat at night. There is no formula, no bottles, no cups. There is no hysterical crying (from either him or I), and I feel like I know what I'm doing. I'm not sure if Nathan's prematurity had anything to do with this or they are just very different babies.

I hardly put Noah in his bassinet the first few days. I wanted so much to soak up all of the newborn magic that I didn't get to enjoy with Nathan. Those first few moments of life where the only thing either of us knows is each other.

Bonne Annee

2012-01-02T17:46:00.000+01:00

I never make resolutions. There is something about setting goals that I don't accomplish and feeling like a failure every December 31st when I realized how little I actually did. I also think that the less I expect from a year, the better the year becomes. There is very little disappointment when you just let life happen and enjoy the moments for what they are.

Last year, we set up some general goals, like getting our bathroom renovated. Luckily for all of us, that one came true.

Since I don't make resolutions however, I thought the idea of writing down all of the resolutions I don't plan on keeping would make me feel a lot better about myself. My top 10 would have to be...

10. Exercise more. I used to run everyday. Then I had a baby and got lazy and stopped. I never picked it up again. I would love to someday, but I think perma-laziness has set in.

9. Eat better. I actually eat pretty healthy already but I could never give up my guilty pleasures - such as chocolate croissants or diet coke. Life is much better when you enjoy it every once in a while.

8. Clean more. I hate cleaning with a passion. I do it out of obligation because living in filth is frowned upon. However, if anyone wanted to come and clean my house for me, I would have no complaints.

7. Stop being such a procrastinator.

6. De-clutter. We live in a small European apartment and I feel like we add more stuff than get rid of. I would love to get rid of half of the things we have but don't use, but see #7 as to why I haven't just yet.

5. Take more pictures. I love all of those project 365 or 52 challenges, but I hate taking my camera places. And even when I take it, I forget to use it. I should just be grateful we have any pictures of our kids at all.

4. Potty-training. We've tried, we've failed. I hold no hopes for 2012. Maybe I'll let his wife worry about this someday.

3. Spend less time on the internet. I think the longest I've gone is 2 days and I had withdrawals.

2. Update my wardrobe. I still have clothes in my closet from the beginning of the decade. I think it's time to let those go, or maybe I'll just wait until they come back in style.

1. Make more of an effort to learn French. It is amazing that I've managed to live nearly 4 years in France with my level of French. Luckily Nathan's French is quickly improving and he will soon be able to correct my terrible grammar.

If any of these "should" happen to come true, we'll call it a great year. And if not, well I wasn't holding my breath.

The wrap up

2011-12-29T14:22:00.000+01:00

I can't believe that the New Year is only a few days away. I'm still not ready to let go of 2011, it has been such a great year, but 2012 holds nothing but promise.

We will begin the year as a family of four and there will hopefully be some other big changes for our family next year (keeping fingers crossed).

Here is a small recap of the best of January - September 2011...

1) January - March click here 2) April - May click here 3) June - September click here

October

This month Nathan celebrated his very first ever American Halloween. It was such a fun time and I'm so glad he didn't miss out on the opportunity to dress up and eat his weight in candy. That is what childhood is all about, isn't it?

November:

In keeping with the spirit of things, this month we celebrated our very first American Thanksgiving as a family. I love having such a great community of expats where we can get together and share little bits of home even from so far away. Nathan loved it all, especially his chicken nuggets.

December:

This month brought the most blessings out of the entire year. Not only did we get to celebrate Christmas with family from both Romania and the US, but Santa brought us a very special gift, our second son Noah exactly one week before Christmas.

I hope you all have an amazing weekend and a very Happy 2012!

Feeling Grinch-y

2011-12-28T14:37:00.001+01:00

There are very few words that can describe the love you feel for your child as a first time mother. You wonder how your ever lived without that tiny little wonder in your life.

Everything is new and every smile or coo melts your entire heart. You wonder how could you ever love anything as much as you love that tiny little baby.

This was me with our first son. Every time I looked at him I swelled with pride and joy. I loved watching him grow and learn new things. His first words; his first steps...every milestone was properly recorded and embedded in my heart.

Then we found out we were pregnant with our second child, another boy. I was ecstatic and then the doubt set in.

How am I ever going to love a second child as much as I love Nathan? How could I possibly have all those feelings that I have now for Nathan? Will I choose a favorite?

These worries plagued my pregnancy. I couldn't help but wonder about how much our family, which seemed so perfect, would change so drastically. Could I handle it?

I spent my entire pregnancy trying to enjoy all of the solo time I could with Nathan. Making sure he knew that I loved him and that he was my entire heart.

Then Noah was born. The moment I held him in my arms, I knew. I finally understood what everyone had been telling me all along. You don't stop loving one child less. There is no competition. Your heart literally grows and expands. Not only do you make room for your new child but your love for your first child grows when you see him next to his brother- when you see the love that they will have for each other.

I wonder if this is how the Grinch felt when his heart grew?

Merci, Santa

2011-12-27T14:52:00.000+01:00

It has been a Christmas unlike any other. In our little corner of France, we have family visiting from Romania and the United States. It has been a mix of traditions old and new. It has been filled with lots of great food and wine, and even more amazing memories.

Noah and I were lucky enough to be discharged just in time for Christmas and we were able to spend it at home enjoying the true magic of Christmas. Last year Nathan was too small to really enjoy Christmas and spent more time enjoying playing with the wrapping paper. Nothing could compare to the emotions he had this year running out into the living room and seeing the Christmas tree filled with presents that he got to open. I admit that maybe we were more excited than he was. Santa was good to us and we feel very blessed to have had such an amazing holiday.

Even with all of the family, the wonderful gifts and the precious moments. Santa brought me one of the most precious gifts of all on Christmas Day...brotherly love for the very first time and 5 uninterrupted hours of sleep. Who could ask for more?

And now, the tree has been taken down, but the magic of the holiday continues.

I hope you all had a magical Christmas filled with love and magic.

Joyeux Noel and a Merry Christmas

2011-12-24T12:25:00.000+01:00

I hope everyone has a great Christmas, Hanukah and everything in between! My mom flies in today from the States and my sister-in-law and brother-in-law flew in last Tuesday from Romania. We will be celebrating an amazing Christmas as a family this year!

July - September: A summer to remember

2011-12-23T17:19:00.000+01:00

Well, Noah and I are happily at home and adjusting to having to do things for ourselves. No more hospital staff to make our lives easier! Big brother is adapting and doesn't really know what to make of the crying baby except to tell him to stop crying.

Since being home I have been slacking on the comments, but I have read every single one and I promise that I will get back to you soon. I mean, what else do I have to do when I'm up at 3 am, right?

But I wanted to make sure that I continued the countdown of our great 2011.

July - September marked the beginning of our busy summer schedule. France takes their national vacation in the month of August, so in keeping with tradition we got out and explored as much as we could.

July

This month we made the official announcement that there would be a new baby P joining us this year! We were so excited to be adding to our family!

We also took advantage of the long holiday weekend (French Independence Day) and headed down to Italy. The weather was amazing and Nathan expanded his culinary palette enjoying all different types of pastas and Gelattos. He also took advantage to go swimming in Portofino and took a small trip to visit Monaco!

August

With no daycare and no work to have to worry about, we decided to take a two week road-trip through Europe.

We stared in Turin, Italy and then continued out way to Milan and Verona - where Nathan grabbed his first boob.

We continued through Austria and Germany before coming back home through France. We were exhausted but loved every minute of it!

We also found out that our second baby would be a boy!

September

September is always my favorite because it's my birthday month!

It was low key and I spent it with my two favorite men. What else could a girl ask for?

Cornel and I also bought my car this month, Minnie. She is an automatic car in France - a rare find!! I love her and she has come in quite handy!

It was a great 3 months and little did I know how much better the last 3 would be! Come back next Friday for the big finale!!

Noah's Arrival

2011-12-21T09:19:00.000+01:00

Thank you everyone for the amazing comments. I promise I will try to get back to all of you in-between naps!

Today, while I should have been posting my 37 week update instead I'm going to share Noah's birth story. I have to say that I am so relieved that he made it until 37 weeks and comparing him to my first son it is amazing the difference a couple of days can make!

I woke up on Sunday morning with contractions, but they were few and far between. It had just started snowing for the first time this year and I didn't want to think about leaving the house. When the contractions got 20 minutes apart and a bit more painful I figured I should start preparing for the hospital.

I did what any woman in labor would do: took a shower, shaved my legs, did my hair and put on make-up.

Cornel, however, was bit more panicked. He didn't know whether to get himself ready, get Nathan ready, get the suitcases in the car.

At 10, I reassured him that we had plenty of time and that he should just take it easy. We called our friends to let them know we would be dropping off Nathan and everything was set.

We left the house at 11 and the contractions were still 10 - 15 minutes apart. Plenty of time, considering that with Nathan they were right on top of each other and I still had two hours of labor before he arrived.

We arrived at the hospital at 11:20 and I was much more composed than I was the first time around. I didn't drop to the floor in pain and I entered the obstetrics bloc collected and refreshed.

When the mid-wife on duty checked me, she exclaimed that I was at 7cm, and that I needed to be moved into the delivery room immediately if we had any chance of getting an epidural. I told her we HAD to get the epidural no matter what.

When she checked me again 10 minutes later she said I was at 10cm and that I would not have time to get the epidural. She got the anesthesiologist who tried to give me medication to make the contractions less intense. He warned that if it worked, it would take at least half an hour to take effect. I didn't care - I NEEDED drugs!

The half hour came and went and there was absolutely no relief. I had two options: start delivering and end the pain or wait and see. At this point, Cornel's hand was purple from holding my hand and I just wanted everything over with.

The midwife broke my water at 12:35 and the baby crowned immediately. The doctor on duty was great and gave me permission to curse in English; which I did. He tried to talk to me about things he had seen when he was in the US and was trying to keep my mind off the pain.

I will say that it was a completely different feeling giving birth with the epidural and with out. I definitely think that I knew what my body wanted me to do without the drugs and could feel when I was supposed to push and when I wasn't, which I don't remember feeling with the epidural. Well, except for the time the doctor told me to scream less and push more. I thought I was doing both.

After 10 minutes of pushing Noah was out, and I was so relieved. I was even more relieved that I didn't tear and required no stitches.

Sadly, we have no pictures of those magic first moments because Cornel forgot the camera in the car and had no time to go back and get it. Oh well, c'est la vie!

We have this amazing little reminder....

Welcome to the World

2011-12-19T12:44:00.000+01:00

I had an entire post written and ready for today, but then this happened!

Our little bundle of joy, Noah Gabriel, arrived just in time for Christmas.

Born at 12:45 French time on Sunday, December 18th, 2011.

He weighed 2.9kgs (6 pounds 6 oz) and was 47 cm (18.5 inches) long

We are all doing well and adjusting to becoming a family of four!

April - June & a very Happy Birthday

2011-12-16T11:49:00.001+01:00

I'm continuing the countdown of my amazing 2011 today with a small re-cap of what happened April through June, but first I have a very special announcement!

If you know Mark over at Our Simple Lives (and you should because he is hilarious) then you know about his four beautiful kids and Fred, who happens to be French. So, I wanted to take the time to wish Fred a very happy Joyeux Anniversaire all the way from Auvergne. Please join me in wishing him a very happy Birthday today and make his day, since Mark promised me he would read all comments today. Here is wishing you a day filled with nothing but bonheur (happiness)!

Source : lygane.centerblog.net sur centerblog.

Now back to the countdown...

April

This was a big month for me! Did you know that I celebrated my 3 year blogiversary? Crazy to think that I have been blogging for over 3 years now!

This month we also celebrated Easter. It was so amazing to have a little walking toddler that could finally grasp some of the concepts of Easter. He had a great time opening his Easter Bunny gifts and after church, his first egg hunt was a complete success, even if the basket was bigger than he was!

May

What a month this was! We took our first trip of the year to attend a wedding in Romania! Nathan as always was the life of the party and rocked on until 3 am!

The hubs and I also took advantage to drop off the boy with his grandparents and head on a solo vacation to Cyprus. I had forgotten what it was like to be just the 2 of us!

June

This was a whirlwind month. Cornel and I celebrated our 3 year wedding anniversary!

We also took our son to Disneyland Paris for the very first time! He was in awe and it was so great to see his reaction to everything including his idol Mickey. It was truly the most exhausting vacation I have ever taken!

It marked a great halfway point to the year!

What about you, did you have a great first half of 2011?

I'm linking up again with these fabulous women today, so go and check out their reviews of 2011 and don't forget to wish Fred a happy birthday!

Home for the Holidays

2011-12-15T21:57:00.001+01:00

Thank you to T-mobile for sponsoring my post today.

I made a comment the other day to Cornel where I said that this would only be the third Christmas I didn't spend with "my family".

I didn't realize when the words came out of my mouth how hurtful they sounded until Cornel turned and asked me,

"Aren't Nathan and I your family, don't we count?"

It is then that I realized what a terrible example I was setting for my son. Here I am trying to instill some values of Christmas that have nothing to do with Santa and presents, and yet I was being so selfish!

My son doesn't realize that we are missing a Christmas in Arizona with his extended family. All he wants and all he needs is to be with us, his parents.

He needs hugs and kisses, he needs cuddles on the couch, and bed time stories. He needs boo boo's kissed and the occasional holiday cookie. He is lucky enough that his grandmother and aunt and uncle will be here to celebrate with him, in his home.

In fact, Christmas is what I make for him. Whether in France, Romania or Arizona. It is being with family and not about gifts and Santa.

That is what it means to be home for the holidays. To be somewhere that is surrounded with love, comfort and family. So as long as the three (almost four) of us are together...we will always be home for the holidays.

36 weeks

2011-12-14T10:15:00.000+01:00

I cannot tell you how happy I am to be writing an update for 36 weeks, since by this time with my first he was already born!

We had yet another doctors appointment this week and apparently I've already made some progress, so my doctor is expecting this baby by this weekend. I just think about all of the Christmas stuff I have to get done that I cannot think about having a baby right now!

Either way, the bags are packed and in the car and the house is all decked out for the holidays. I'm actually feeling very well, and I've only gained 6 kgs this pregnancy (12 pounds) which is great.

I've been on maternity leave for a couple of days now, and it is amazing how much stuff I think I can get done that never gets done. I thought the house would be spotless, the shopping done and my hair perfectly coiffed and colored. So far, none of that has yet to happen, but I did manage to do laundry once this week, so that is success right?

I also only got one picture this week. Sad, isn't it? This is what happens when your husband goes to work before you are even out of your PJ's. Although, I promise you - I have gotten out of my PJ's this week.

I did have maternity pictures taken, but more on that later.

Sweater Dress: Old Navy (old), tights: Zara

And of course there were some cheesey Christmas pictures to be taken...because you can't have a December baby without the obligatory Christmas tree pictures.

We'll see if I'm still around to do a 37 week update!

Christmas in France

2011-12-13T10:58:00.001+01:00

Usually during this time of year I am much too busy planning a trip back to the States to really pay attention to the festivities going on around here. At this time last year, Nathan and I were already back in the States enjoying all things American like Starbucks and shopping.

The only other Christmas I spent in France was the one when Nathan was born, and I was much too sleep deprived to really notice anything around me.

But this year I really want to make an effort to get out and enjoy Christmas time in France. Maybe it's the fact that I want to make happy Christmas memories for Nathan. That even though his mom gets homesick, he should still be allowed to revel in the holiday magic.

So Cornel and I have decided (ok, I have decided) that we will go out and cram as much holiday cheer as we possibly can!

We've seen the tree downtown...

The tree at Place Jaude

We've been to the Christmas market by the Cathedral...and enjoyed the holiday food.

The Christmas market at Place de la Victoire with the Cathedral in the back

Aligot (mashed garlic cheesy potatoes) with saucisse and a hot wine

We've even take a tour of our little suburb (Chamalieres) in the evening to enjoy the lights and the Christmas tree.

the tree in downtown Chamalieres in front of the church

the lights at the Parc de Montjoly in Chamalieres

And what do we have to show for all of this wonderful holiday cheer that we are sharing with the boy?

A crying, screaming very unhappy toddler! If that doesn't say Christmas cheer I don't know what does.

Home is where the heart is...

2011-12-12T11:52:00.000+01:00

I write a lot about going "home" for the holidays, but what does that mean really?

For the past 14 years I have been moving around so much because of school, work and love. Each of the places I have lived has held such a special place in my heart and has helped shape me into the person I am today. For me, my hometown isn't just the place I grew up, but also the place I grew wiser, grew independent and found myself.

I grew up in a small town in Southern Arizona near the Mexican border, and the town where my parents still live today. I left shortly after turning 17 and moved to the "big city" over four hours away for college. I learned to live on my own, join the "real world" before kissing it all goodbye 7 years later to follow my career and become a Southern Belle sort of. Greenville, South Carolina proved to be a much needed culture shock and reality check. The place where I met my now husband before following him across the ocean to France.

I consider them all my hometown for so many reasons.

Small town, Arizona

10. This town will always be filled with memories old friends and memories of childhood.

9. It is the place of homemade Mexican food, warm kitchens and Spanglish.

8. It is the place of Christmas and large family celebrations.

Phoenix, Arizona

7. The place of crazy memories with amazing friends that I now consider family.

6. Christmases in t-shirts and light sweaters.

5. The place I can always visit but will never call home again.

Greenville, South Carolina

4. The place where I learned all about Southern hospitality and slowing down.

3. The place filled with seasons, comfort and warmth.

2. The place I wish to establish roots and call home again one day.

Clermont-Ferrand, France

1. This is the place where my son was born, his only home. The place where we became a family and for the moment, the place where my heart lives.

I'm linking up with Stasha for the very first time this week!

2011...where have you gone?

2011-12-09T11:09:00.000+01:00

I can't believe that 2012 is only a few weeks away. It seems that every year I go through this epiphany that one year must end before another begins.

Like everyone else, there are those years that I'm so happy to get rid of - and those years that I wish would stay a little bit longer.

This year has been so wonderful for us and while I will be sad to let it go, 2011 is a year I will remember fondly.

January

The month after the holidays are rough. The month after a holiday abroad are even harder, so much so that we let the party continue well into January by celebrating King's Day.

This January, Nathan also made me an incredibly proud mother by taking his very first steps. It was emotional and I admit I may have cried.

February -

Love was definitely in the air this month - there is nothing better than spending a valentine's day cuddling with both your baby and your husband. But love for each other wasn't the only love shared this month. I also taught my son the importance of a love of wine! Because really, who doesn't love wine? (yes, I may have bumped my son from his stroller to carry a case of wine, don't judge!)

March

Springtime arrived in France and it meant lots of time outdoors enjoying family. This month I passed my CIA exam and had a huge relief lifted off my shoulders.

But probably the most exciting thing that happened this month, was that my son learned the proper way to eat a pig!

I will be reviewing June - December on Fridays...so please come back next week and see the chaos that ensued April - June!

I'm linking up with these fabulous women today, so go and check out their reviews of 2011!

The tree search

2011-12-08T11:09:00.001+01:00

Ever since I can remember we've always had a tree for Christmas; sometimes artificial, sometimes natural. When I was little I remember that we would take out all of the ornaments and decorate as a family. It was one of my favorite things to do.

I grew up and moved out of my parent's house but I knew that when I would go back for Christmas there would always be a tree.

Gathering around the tree in the evenings or on Christmas morning has always brought back such happy memories to me. It is truly what brings evokes the Chrismtas spirit for me.

Since spending Christmas in France this year, we would need to go out and find a tree of our own. We have only had to do this once before and the results were tragic! Check out this "Charlie Brown" Christmas tree that was over 50 euros! Sad right?

So this year, I was on a mission to find a "real tree", or at least a tree that had enough branches for some ornaments. We drove around to 5 different places in search of the tree. The fact that I'm a pregnant emotional mess didn't help the situation since I felt I was doomed to have yet another pathetic little tree.

Then we stopped into the little tent set up in front of the grocery store and I saw "it". It was love at first sight. A tree with branches! A tree where I didn't see the trunk! I think I heard music as I ran in slow motion to grab the tree. Ok maybe not.

Cornel was ready to stop driving around in search of trees so he was willing to pay whatever the good lady wanted. When she said 15 euros I think his wallet wanted to kiss me (although I'm sure we more than made up the difference in the wasted gas).

The decorations were hung that evening and we had a very special helper.

Now it officially feels (and smells) like Christmas and I love just staring at it, even if we are in France.

35 Weeks

2011-12-07T11:08:00.003+01:00

Well, I did it! I'm out of the "danger zone"! I reached the infamous 35/35 last week and I think both my husband and I let out a huge sigh of relief! While I would love for Noah to stay in a little longer - we are now completely ready and prepared for him to make his grand appearance into the world.

The only thing that is keeping me up at nights now (besides the lack of bladder control) is the anticipation that any day now we can be cuddling our newborn. I'm not sure I'm ready for those sleepless nights again, but I can't wait to smell that baby smell.

As for the pregnancy, I'm kind of happy that this pregnancy is coming to an end. Now, I have to admit that I have had a dream pregnancy - no morning sickness, minimal weight gain, no complications. With all of that said, I miss the simplicity of just being able to do everyday things without getting winded or exhausted.

I still haven't been able to get full enjoyment out of my maternity clothes since my maternity pants are STILL TOO BIG! How does that even happen?? They are petite small for goodness sakes! I spend half of my day trying to lift up my pants from around my hips. So while my non-maternity jeans are a little tight (although they still button) I find myself opting to wear these more and more for the sheer possibility of being able to walk down the street.

This weekend, the weather was a little bipolar. Cold and rainy on Saturday followed by cool and sunny on Sunday. Luckily we went out on both days to take full advantage of the insane winter we have been having in Clermont.

Saturday, after our traditional breakfast downtown we went out in search of our Christmas tree. Luckily we found the right one after driving to 5 different places!

Jeans: Abercrombie (non-maternity), Sweater & tank: Old Navy (non-maternity), Boots: Zara Girls, Boot Socks: Etam (french lingerie store).

Sunday was a big day! All of the stores were open in Clermont and we were not going to miss an opportunity to go shopping on a Sunday! We also went down to the annual Christmas market where we enjoyed a traditional lunch of truffade with hot wine (although mine was a hot chocolate).

Jeans: Abercrombie (non-maternity), Sweater: Tommy Hilfiger (non-maternity), scarf: Guess, Boots: Zara Girls, Coat: Gap (old), Sunglasses: Fendi

Each week I am now getting ready to end the maternity series. We'll have to wait and see how long I actually make it!

To snip or not to snip

2011-12-06T11:37:00.003+01:00

If you are the parent of a boy then you know the monumental decision you have to take about circumcision. It seems like everyone (even non-parents) have an opinion to share on the subject.

When we found out that our first child was going to be a boy my husband and I discussed it and there was no question that we would be doing this for our son for various reasons.

I guess I was naive to think that what is normally a simple procedure done in American hospitals within hours of birth would be so simple in a foreign country.

When our son was born I asked his pediatrician about getting the procedure done. I was not expecting him to tell me that the had no idea if it could be done and that he would have to ask a urologist there at the hospital. Umm...okay.

The pediatric nurse who came by later that day asked if the urologist had been by to see us yet. She then continued to ask if we were Muslim and if that was the reason we wanted it done to our innocent baby. For living in a very liberal country her response shocked me, and I faked not understanding her for lack of a better response.

When I should have really said, "If I answer "yes" will you circumcise my son?".

The doctors finally came by and told us that in France this type of procedure will not be done on any boy under the age of 2 due to the anesthesia. And so we went home, disappointed but resolved that we would get it done when he was two years old.

Well, last month my son turned two and now we are again facing the "what do we do decision". It all seemed so simple when we were talking in terms of a baby who would feel minimally little pain and would not remember this event later in life. Now we are talking about a 2 year old boy, and when I see him I can't imagine putting him through this kind of pain. I couldn't even go through with the ear tubes, how on earth would I go through with this!

My reasons for having it done haven't changed, and I'm still adamant about getting it done. I just sometimes wish that these sort of things were easier to do in a foreign country.

And wouldn't you figure that life would throw us a curve ball and let us make this decision twice in our life! So for now I am torn, and the longer that it takes us to make this decision that worse it will be on Nathan.

Why can't I just turn back the clock two years, where I would have been smart enough to fly back to the US and get it done when he was still an infant?

25 Months

2011-12-05T11:04:00.001+01:00

I can't believe it's been a month since your birthday and soon we will no longer count your age by months but rather by years.

It is amazing how much you have grown in just a few weeks, but you are quickly becoming a little boy right before our eyes. Every day you surprise us with new words or actions and every night we go to bed saying how much we love you.

You have made our lives so much fun and it is unbelievable how much we laugh when we are with you. You love to keep us on our toes and you never let us have a dull moment.

Christmas is just around the corner and you have become obsessed with Santa, although you are still scared to approach him in person. You love to sing and half the time we don't know whether you are singing in English or French, but your melodies are sweet.

You now speak to us exclusively in French although we still try to speak to you in English. You love to say "oh la la" and love to call yourself a "petit coquin". We can't help but laugh at what you are learning at daycare and especially loved when you told your dad to "bouge les fesses" (move your butt).

In just a couple of weeks you are going to be a big brother and I know that you will be amazing. You have such love and kindness in your heart and it is clear when you willingly give kisses (even to your stuffed animals) and are so open to receiving them.

Every day we look you and we are even more in love and even more amazed that we have been blessed with such an amazing child like you.

Stuff my stocking

2011-12-02T14:35:00.001+01:00

I've already mentioned that since we will be in France this year for the holidays that my mom will be coming to visit. There was no way she would go a year without seeing her favorite (albeit only) grandchild at Christmas (plus miss an opportunity to meet the second).

What I haven't told you is that Cornel's sister & husband will also be coming to spend the holiday with us.

We are very excited to have a full house and also to have a big family Christmas in France. This however, posed just a tiny glitch in my yultide planning...I didn't have enough stockings for 6 people. And let me tell you that stockings are a hard thing to find in France.

I considered ordering them online, but after you consider shipping it just didn't seem worth the money. I considered asking my mom to bring them, but she wouldn't get in until the 24th at night, and we know that Santa needs to have them ready to be filled.

This left me with only one option - make them! I did have that fancy sewing machine that I have yet to put to good use.

I ended up buying a pattern online and headed out to buy some fabric and got to work. I was seriously nervous because even though it was beginning level it was more challenging than anything else I had done!

I was shocked when they came out looking like stockings. And when they came out looking like very nice stockings. I think I loved them more than the store bought ones we already had from a couple of years ago. I will give them to our guests as gifts at the end to take home with them - and then make more for us next year!

The final product.... what do you think? (please forgive the terrible picture quality, I had to take these at night)

And here is our final stocking display this year. although I still need to add more garland around the frame of the opening.

Can you see the difference between our store bought stockings and the home-made? We are still missing the "Baby's 1st Chrismtas" stocking, but we are waiting until the baby actually makes an appearance since it could be after Christmas.

I can't wait to start stuffing! What about you, do you do stockings at Christmas time?

A chocolate a day....

2011-12-01T13:53:00.000+01:00

I have been collecting small Chrismtas decorations since I moved out "on my own". I would keep all of these things in a box for when I would have a family of my own. I'm not sure why I began collecting these things since in my 30 years there have only been 2 Christmases that I haven't spent with my family "back home".

When I moved to France, I had to get rid of almost all of the things I had collected through the years. There were only a few special mementos that made the big trip over the ocean. These mostly stayed in the boxes since we usually spent our Christmas holiday traveling.

This year however, with Baby #2 making his appearance any day now we knew that our holiday would be spent in France. While I was sad to not be with my entire family, I was determined to make it a memorable "family Christmas" for us and out came all of the decorations.

One of my favorites was this angel advent calendar that I've had for over 6 years. She has made the move with me all over the US and now all over France. I have yet to use her, but since Nathan is now 2 years old I really wanted to start the advent tradition with him.

I showed Nathan the angel and explained that every day he had to move the tree to the right date and take out the "treat" inside. He was more interested in finding the treats than hearing me talk.

Needless to say that this calendar will stay empty until and will be magically filled while he is sleeping in his bed.

This morning we had our first advent treat of the year. He was so excited to stuff the little Christmas treat in the pocket that he forgot to take the treat out. And for our very first treat of the calendar we have none other than a tiny French pain d'epice (gingerbread).

I'm hoping to fill this with different treats every day, be it chocolates or a small toy. He is still too young for the "daily activities" so for now this will have to do.

It also feels so good to have started a family tradition that we can continue in the years to come. No matter where we spend Christmas.

34 Weeks

2011-11-30T12:07:00.003+01:00

34 weeks already? That means I have just one more week left until I'm in the clear and this baby can make is his arrival. I can't wait to finally feel that sense of relief. I can feel myself getting bigger this week, although I'm sure the fact I ate my weight in food on Friday had something to do with it.

I have been feeling more and more uncomfortable especially since this baby has taken up residence in my ribs. I'm getting both excited and nervous. I guess the countdown can really begin now. The next few weeks are jam packed with appointments with both doctors and lab work.

This week has been incredibly busy and hectic, with work and holiday decorating that I have completely forgotten to take pictures. I took one this morning on my way to work, so needless to say I was not looking my best.

Shirt & Pants: Motherhood maternity, Boots: Kim Rogers (old)

Thanksgiving a la francaise

2011-11-29T12:07:00.000+01:00

I have to admit that reading all of these posts about the long Thanksgiving weekend was making me a bit nostalgic and definitely craving the turkey with all of the fixin's (trying to make sure I don't forget my Southern ).

Luckily though, this year I didn't have to do without! The American community in Clermont put on a huge Thanksgiving lunch on Sunday and for the first time we were there to celebrate. There were over 120 people in attendance so it was quite the event, which was held at the local international school.

I was so excited since this would be Nathan's first Thanksgiving, definitely not traditional but first Thanksgiving nonetheless.

So while Cornel and I dined on this delicious feast....

Turkey with stuffing, sweet potatoes, green beans and mashed potatoes....

Nathan chowed down on chicken nuggets and frites (French Fries). I guess he is more American than I realized.

At least he looked cute for the occasion right? He did however make five separate trips to the dessert table. He had his fill of madeleines (cookies) and picked off his fair share of strawberries from the various cakes and tarts. There is truly no denying that he is my son!

Even though it was unconventional, it was amazing to spend an afternoon eating turkey and being thankful for my amazing family and our wonderful life in France!

The Big Name Reveal....

2011-11-25T12:07:00.001+01:00

When we found out that our first baby was going to be a boy, we had the had the hardest time on finding a name. We were these people that had a girl name picked out before we were even married, but we never considered the possibility of a boy. We went through all of the baby books, websites and we could not agree on a name. It is even harder since we had to find a name that worked in all four of our household languages.

When we finally decided on the name Nathan, we felt such a sense of relief. It was the perfect name that we both loved. After our son was born, it was clear that the name was meant for him.

Then came the big ultrasound with this baby where we found out we were again having a boy. What a twist of fate. Again, we had to go back and find a name. You don't realize how much the language barriers come into play. I loved the name Cole but in French it would have been "Allez Cole" (let's go Cole) which sounds exactly like "A l'ecole" (go to school)....so that name was out.

Cornel had his mind set on two names, neither of which I loved. Isn't it funny, how having met someone previously with a similar name can ruin it for you?

But Cornel's heart was set, and I reluctantly gave in to one of the names. We began calling the baby by that name, although in my heart I knew it wasn't perfect. We shared our name choice with our families who all had an opinion. My dad even sent me a list of over 20 names he loved over the name we had chosen, including Guiseuppe (we're not Italian) and Santi (as in Santiago without the "ago"). It seems we wouldn't be so lucky as we were with Nathan's name.

Time went by and when people would ask us if we had a name, we would say yes - but we didn't really share. Luckily since it is bad luck in France to say the name of the baby before they are born we weren't really pressured too much to share.

Then, one day while at a doctor's appointment I was flipping through a magazine and saw it. I turned to Cornel and asked him, what about this name. I was shocked when he looked back at me and said he also liked it. It also started with an "N", so we could be like those "matchy-matchy" families.

We took the name out for a test drive and it fit, and so we decided that our son's name would be:

While the name doesn't exist in French, Spanish or Romanian (it is spelled and pronounced Noé in all 3 of those), we loved how spelling it American style would make it unique in the other 3 languages. Although with the popularity of Yannick Noah (a French tennis player), the name is becoming quite popular in France.

As for the name Cornel had chosen to begin with...well that will be his middle name: Noah Gabriel. Who say's I can't compromise?

I love this name and even Nathan now refers to my belly by name - when he isn't calling him "brudder" of course.

As for these pictures, I found my inspiration on Pinterest and my wonderful husband was willing to be my photographer. These are me & Noah at exactly 33 weeks pregnant.

Thanksgiving's Past

2011-11-24T13:33:00.000+01:00

Almost everyone I know will be celebrating Thanksgiving today and eating delicious turkeys with stuffing.

Growing up Thanksgiving wasn't such a big holiday in my house. Sure we had the day off school and my mom would cook a turkey, but it was more for the act of having Thanksgiving than actually celebrating Thanksgiving.

Once I got out into the "real world", Thanksgiving always seemed to fall off as a holiday of choice. It was always too difficult to make the trip home just for a long weekend especially when I knew that I would be going home in a couple of weeks for Christmas.

I don't think I really started enjoying Thanksgivings until I moved to South Carolina. It was definitely too far to go home for the holiday but since my best friends lived in Atlanta it was the perfect excuse to stay with them for four days and do our favorite things: eat, drink and sleep. Throw in some shopping and it was truly the best holiday out of my year.

We were all in our mid 20's so cooking the full meal for 2 - 3 people wasn't really an option. Instead we would buy pre-made turkeys and only make the side dishes. A fool proof Thanksgiving!

I was really depressed going into my first Thanksgiving in Europe knowing I wouldn't get to celebrate it. But two of my closest friends flew out to Europe and we spent an entire week roaming the streets of Paris and Barcelona!

We even threw in a day where we ate dinner with all the fixings!

It definitely wasn't the big American Thanksgiving. It was a week spent with great friends doing what we love to do best. I was so thankful that they flew out and that I got to spend time with them and expose my European husband to a semi-authentic Thanksgiving. And afterall, isn't that what Thanksgiving is all about?

I think that my first (and only) European Thanksgiving was one of the best I've ever had. Although the one with naked guy on the coach and midnight shopping ranks a top second!

I hope everyone has an amazing Thanksgiving celebrating with the people you love.

33 Weeks

2011-11-23T12:06:00.001+01:00

I am definitely celebrating each week that comes without a baby. I only need to make it 2 more weeks before I'm no longer considered at risk. Woo hoo!

We did do a mini-photo session for the big Baby #2 name reveal. Be sure to come back Friday to see the pictures and most of all to see the name we've chosen!

I am definitely feeling more tired lately and it's becoming more uncomfortable to do simple things. Luckily I can still see my feet so putting on my shoes and socks is still a manageable task. It's all about the little things in life, right?

We've done a lot of baby related things this week. I've started my hospital bag although I still have some things that I need to purchase in order to satisfy the long list of things the hospital gave us. With Nathan I went crazy and bought all the things on the list and ended up using 2, so this year I'm only going to pack the things I know for sure I will need. In France you are typically in the hospital for 5 days so there are a lot of things you need to pack, like 6 changes of clothes for the baby.

Cornel is also putting the finishing touches on the nursery letters, and all appointments with the anesthesiologist, etc. have been scheduled. It's all starting to feel so real.

Other than that, there hasn't been too much going on. I'm still trying to rest as much as possible, but with a toddler around it's easier said than done.

All non-maternity clothes. Sweater: Tommy Hilfiger, Jeans: Abercrombie, Boot Socks: French boutique, Boots: Zara

Sweater: Old Navy (old), Pants: Motherhood Maternity; Boots: Macy's (old)

And because it is always fun to compare. Here I am at 33 weeks with Nathan.

Sleep Deprivation

2011-11-22T12:05:00.001+01:00

My son was one of these perfect babies that started sleeping through the night at 3 months old. We would lay him down at 8 pm and we wouldn't hear a peep until 7am. We were those parents that others hated. We knew we were lucky. We also knew that our days were numbered.

It has been two glorious years of uninterrupted sleep and now, out of nowhere, this kid is refusing to sleep. I blame it all on the dreaded DST (daylight savings time) which threw our schedule right out the window. Now, every morning at 5:30 he is up and ready to start his day and I am not dealing well!

Last week I snapped and completely lost my mind. I blame it on being 8 months pregnant and exhausted.

Five a.m. rolled around and Nathan ran into our room demanding milk. I woke up, gave him milk and took him back to his room. This is where things went wrong - terribly wrong.

He wanted nothing to do with his bed and started screaming at the top of his lungs. I tried to calmly explain to him that it was still bed time and that he needed to go back to sleep. He was not having it. He wanted the lights turned on and he wanted to play. I went back to bed, hoping he would get the idea.

The only idea he got - follow mommy into her room and scream into her face until she wakes up and plays with me. I put the covers over my head and tried my best to ignore it all.

He cried for at least a half hour, and then sweet silence. I thought I had won and he had gone back to bed and so I went back to sleep. I woke up so proud of myself, patting myself on the back for my parenting success when I see a glow from the living room and some "talking" going on.

In fact, my son had never gone back to bed but had proceeded to walk into the living room and turn on the TV. He couldn't turn on the cable box, but he was reading and playing by the light of the illuminated screen. I truly felt like the worse mother in the world.

I walked over to him, his eyes still red and puffy from all of the crying, and gave him a big hug and kiss. He then demanded milk and a banana. Men!

So now, still completely sleep deprived I am at a loss about what to do. Where did my sleeping child go, and how do I get him back?

Do you have problems with your toddlers sleeping through the night?

La Truffade

2011-11-21T12:02:00.000+01:00

I've mentioned before that I live in the Auvergne region of France. It is literally smack dab in the middle of the country.

We actually live in the biggest city of the region, which isn't saying much since most of the region is farmland inhabited by cows and sheep. The one amazing thing about this region though is the cheese. Most of those delicious and smelly cheeses are produced right here. You can go and visit local farmers and buy the cheese directly from them, or better yet take a tour and see how the cheese is made. Yum! Some bread, some wine and cheese. Life isn't all bad in Auvergne.

What all of this means is that the regional cuisine is focused on cheese and those "countryside" meals. One of my absolute favorites is Truffade - which is essentially potatoes with bacon and cheese and {DELICIOUS}!

It is typically served with sausage or ham; add a glass of hot spiced wine and it is heaven on a plate, and I decided to make it this weekend.

It is definitely not figure friendly, but so delicious and so easy to prepare!

Ingredients:

2 medium yellow onions diced
1 pound of potatoes, peeled, cooked and chopped into pieces (I steamed mine in the microwave)
2 Tbs of butter
200 grams (7 oz) of bacon, diced into pieces
250 grams of a good melting cheese (9 oz) ( I used Cantal, which is a French cheese but any melting cheese will work).

In a large skillet (or pan) melt the butter and add onions. Cook until translucent on medium heat (about 3 minutes). Add the bacon until cooked and fat is released (an additional 3 minutes).

Reduce heat and dd the potatoes and brown them in the skillet with the butter and fat. We like ours crispy and even a little burned so I cooked mine longer. After the potatoes are browned, turn off heat and add the cheese. Toss until the cheese is melted and covers all of the potatoes.

You can serve this with smoked sausages or even a bratwurst, although we ate our plain with a side a salad.

It is the perfect dish for winter and some typical French comfort food.

source

My 7 Wonders

2011-11-17T20:27:00.001+01:00

I have seen a lot in my lifetime, but very few things can compare to the 7 wonders of my world.

7. Fulfilling my dream of visiting Mont St. Michelle

6. Visiting the Southernmost point in the US with amazing friends

5. Falling in love with an amazing man in the most romantic places in the world

4. Seeing and hearing a heartbeat for the very first time

3. Seeing a child take his first breath

2. Be a part of a family being created

1. To fall in love with another baby all over again

32 weeks

2011-11-16T12:06:00.001+01:00

Well hello 8th month, how are you doing? We are definitely in the homestretch now, and soon this house will be turned upside down! I'm both excited and terrified, I hope that is normal.

It has been a super exciting baby week. Not really, it's actually been filled with what seems like hundreds of doctors appointments and ultrasounds. I was actually very excited for the ultrasound so that we could take another look at the baby. He was rather uncooperative and we left there having seen very little. It also occurred to me that we have never been able to see the baby's face. He is constantly hiding behind his hands. With Nathan we always saw his little face and his little nose up in the air, but this baby wants to be an enigma until the very end!

I'm also up 5kgs so far (about 10 pounds) this entire pregnancy. It's hard to believe since I feel so huge compared to when I was pregnant the first time around. I guess the weight just likes to re-distribute itself in other areas, like my rear end.

In any case, my doctor is using the dreaded "P" word as in "pre-term". He has forbidden me from doing anything other than going to and from work. Luckily Cornel was there when he told me that at home I should be resting with my feet up and doing the bare minimum for the next 3 weeks. He is also using the dreaded "C" word - as in c-section. You know, because my pelvic bones are so small and there is no way that a full term baby would ever get passed them. Luckily I don't have to re-do the scans that I did two years ago, we just have to keep monitoring the size of the baby, who is now weight around 2 kgs (4 pounds) according to the lovely ultrasound. Nathan was born at 2.3 kgs and 36 weeks and I think this baby is going to be much bigger!

In non-baby news. This was a long holiday weekend and we enjoyed every second of it outdoors. It has been unseasonably warm, which has been amazing.

Jeans: Motherhood Maternity, Top: H&M (non maternity), Sweater: Old Navy, sunglasses: Fendi

Sweater dress: Ann Taylor, Flower Belt, tights & Boots: Zara, t-shirt: H&M

Holiday Planning

2011-11-15T12:06:00.000+01:00

I know that most of you are gearing up for Thanksgiving so you definitely don't want to hear about Christmas yet but Christmas has already arrived in France. Especially since there is nothing in between to take our attention away.

Christmas is a big {HUGE} deal in my family. The only time where we all get together and the event usually lasts 3 days. There are aunts and cousins, and neighbors you have known for so long they are practically family.

In fact, in all of my 31 years I can count on hand the number of Christmases that I have not spent with my family. So needless to say, it's very important to me.

This year, with the arrival of baby #2 so close to Christmas we will be spending the holidays in France. We are very lucky that we have family that has decided to make the trip out to spend Christmas with us.

My mom has already begun planning her big dinner for Christmas Day and has been sending me daily emails with lists of things I need to have stocked in my kitchen. The emails have become more like comic relief than anything else and I think my mom is in for a big surprise when she realizes she will have to make things from SCRATCH!

Some of the doozies on her list where:

Cream of Mushroom Soup - I have yet to see a can of soup let alone mushroom. We do have powdered soup, but I hardly thing that this will have the same effect in some of those delicious holiday side dishes.

Boxed Stuffing - There is definitely no such thing as Stove Top here, and I doubt that the French have ever shoved moist bread up the rear end of any animal, let alone a turkey. This one we will be making with some toasted baguettes.

Gravy Mix - Unless she wants to put on a hollandaise or sauce au poivre (pepper sauce) we will also be making this from scratch. That or she will be packing some packets in her suitcase to bring with her.

I think that this Christmas dinner will be unlike any other we've ever had. We're going to have to go gourmet on this meal. I definitely think that this will be the first time since my grandparents were younger that there will be so much food made without the help of modern conveniences. This should be an interesting meal.

Hopefully I won't be at the hospital giving birth!

Fall in France

2011-11-14T12:05:00.000+01:00

It seems that in the region of France that we live in there are only two season that make living here worthwhile; Spring and Fall. In the summer it is either too cold or too hot and the winters are alway too cold (for an Arizona girl that is).

Last fall we were plagued with sickness after sickness so we never got to go out and enjoy the beautiful Auvergne weather. That is why this year we are more than making up for it.

While most people probably think that we live a glorious city life like in Paris, we actually live in the middle of France. In a valley surrounded by volcanos. Sounds exciting, right? This is actually the region of France were most of the cheeses come from and the landscapes and surrounding areas are famous for their beauty.

We are in the middle of mountains that are perfect for hiking and lakes surround the area. Sadly, I'm not an outdoor girl at all and all of this charm is lost on me. That doesn't mean that I won't take advantage to try and make it special for Nathan, and my husband of course since he loves all this stuff.

The most amazing thing is driving out into the mountains and to the lakes and enjoying the beautiful scenery and the ever changing colors. They are nothing like the colors in South Carolina, but so beautiful nonetheless. So I wanted to just share some pictures of Fall in my little region of France.

These were taken at Lac D'Aydat about 20 minutes from our house. Nathan loves to go out and feed the ducks (les canards) and if the sun is shining it is the perfect way to spend an afternoon.

After an exhausting afternoon out on the lake of duck feeding and quality family time, there is only one thing left to do....sit out on a terrace in the crisp fall weather enjoying a chocolate chaude and gauffre au nutella (hot chocolate with a nutella waffle)!

Fall is everything that France is supposed to be!

Kreativ Blogger

2011-11-13T12:05:00.000+01:00

My tiny little blog has been honored with yet another award. This time Quiana over at Harlem Love Birds awarded me with the Kreativ Blogger Award. Quiana writes a great blog about living in NYC with her family and she has an adorable one year old...so go and check out her blog and say 'hi'!

I was completely shocked to receive this award since I don't consider myself Kreativ at all but I am extremely honored!

I'm supposed to share seven random things about me and pass on the award to other lucky bloggers. Sounds like fun, right?

So, let's see...what 7 random things could I share that I haven't shared already.

1. In my lifetime I've only lived in 2 states, but have lived in 3 different countries (4 if you count the 3 months I spent living in the UK).

2. I speak 3 languages, but in our household don't be surprised if your hear four or five different ones at any given moment

3. I don't know how to parallel park and the thought of it gives me a panic attack

4. Of all the places I've visited in my lifetime Florence, Italy is my favorite

5. I'm a self proclaimed foodie and love to spend hours experimenting in the kitchen

6. My favorite part of the US is the South East and could see myself living there for the rest of our lives

7. I lived in Arizona my entire life until I was 24 and never ever visited the Grand Canyon. I still have not gone even though my entire family still lives in Arizona.

And now for the fun part, handing off this award!

Baby B Makes Three

It's the Journey That's Important

31 weeks

2011-11-09T12:35:00.001+01:00

I seriously cannot believe how time is flying by around here. I have been ridiculously busy with work and life that it seems like this baby situation is just flying by!

I was so on track a couple of weeks ago. We had the bed set up, the baby clothes washed and now I've hit a wall and have done nothing. I am so unprepared for this baby's arrival. We did finally fill out all of the hospital paper work and have that ready to go and the name has also been chosen (stay tuned for a reveal soon).

I still have yet to prepare a hospital bag even after repeated warning from my doctor to be prepared. Maybe it's the language barrier, but I always seem to think that his advice is "optional" to as where he believes it is mandatory. It is a good thing he has a good sense of humor.

As far as the actual pregnancy goes, this week has been the worst. I have been working late nights and by the time I get home my entire body is exhausted and in pain. I'm hoping once I get back to my regular routine I will start feeling better. There are still no unusual cravings and I've tried to keep away from all of the sweets that are always surrounding me.

Tomorrow we have our final ultrasound (echographie) and I'm excited to see the baby. I definitely feel like I've given this one a lot less attention and priority than I did with Nathan as far as obsessing over every detail, so the ultrasound will be a nice reminder that he is okay and well.

And with that I leave you with my 31 week picture. I love fall, and boots and the ability to wear warm clothes now. I don't think I would have made a good summer pregnant woman.

Dress: Prenatale (Italian boutique), Jeans: Abercrombie, Necklace: French boutique, Boots: Zara

It is super dark in the mornings when we go to work so I apologize for these pictures being so dark. You've got to love DST!

Just for fun, here I am at 31 weeks with Nathan....

The Big Mickey Party

2011-11-08T14:55:00.001+01:00

The problem with living abroad these days is your wide access to the Internet which lets you know what everyone "back home" is doing. This can lead to some serious problems, when you realize that there is no way you can do the same things where you are.

Last year, I wanted to throw Nathan the best first birthday party ever. I scoured the internet for ideas (this was pre- Pinterst folks) and recipes and had the perfect party planned on paper. I slaved for hours making homemade rolls (since I couldn't find them in France), spent an entire evening making cakes, cupcakes and buttercream from SCRATCH because heavan forbid they sell a Betty Crocker mix for under 10 euros!

This year, however, I decided that I would "french it up". I was determined to keep things simple (as simple as I can make things) and prepare things that were readily available in France. There were some panic stricken phone calls to my mom who did mail me some dip mixes and candy melts (is that cheating) - but all in all I stuck to my mission statement.

So, you can all now call me Marie Stewart {as in Martha but French}.

We decided to have Mickey Mouse birthday, since my son is obsessed with all things Mickey {I think he might have even said Mickey before he said "mom" but I won't admit to that on the internet}. I wanted to make the menu extra "Disney-ish" and so we had the following: (if you would like me to post any of the recipes let me know)

Food & Snacks:

Chip & Dale's Chips & Dip

Pete's Pasta Salad

Clarabelle's Croissants au Jambon (Ham & Cheese Croissants)

Donald's Cheese & Quackers

Daisy's Delicious Dip (Spinach Dip)

Pluto's Hot Diggity Dogs (Pigs in a Blanket)

we also had a Baked Brie (frenching it up, remember), vegetable crudite and smoked sausages and hams without the cute names

Sweets & Desserts:

Mickey Mouse au Chocolate (chocolate mousse)

Minnie's Mouska Cookies (my pinterest inspiration)

Clubhouse Chocolate Cupcakes (my mom's homemade recipe) + chocolate cake for Nathan

As for the decorations they were all store bought - except for the wreath that greeted people at the door that was handmade with lots of love. We also displayed his photo banner. I think everyone got a kick to see how much Nathan evolved from 13 - 23 months. Everyone also got a homemade pair of Mickey ears to wear during the party. While they didn't come out as pretty as I thought they would, they were the perfect party favor and much nicer than just the pre-made cone hats.

I also made the printables thanks to the help of my friend Nicole and used Nathan's stuffed Mickey dolls along with some pictures with Mickey as decoration throughout the party.

I bought Nathan's shirt from Etsy and it was hit! Everyone at the party commented how nice it was. We ended up washing it that night and he wore it to school on Monday. All of his teachers ooh'ed and ahh'd since you don't see this kind of thing very often around here.

Nathan got a lot of gifts even from across the ocean and he spent most of his day laughing and playing. I don't know if he will remember this day, but he will always have the pictures to remind him of what a special day it was!

On your birthday...

2011-11-07T11:30:00.002+01:00

Two years ago today I was having the worst back pain of my entire life. At only 36 weeks pregnant it was just 3rd trimester aches and pains. I never expected to end up in the hospital giving birth to a precious little miracle.

Sometimes that day is still a blur. How quickly it all happened. How unprepared I was for your arrival. But the emotions and magic of that day still fill my heart.

In two short years, my heart has grown more than I could have ever imagined possible.

It hasn't always been easy. There have been many days and nights where we have both shed tears. Tears out of exhaustion, tears out of frustrations and tears of amazement.

Every morning when I see your face smiling calling my name, my heart explodes. I cherish the way that my kisses are magical and can heal anything that his hurting you. I wish that my kisses could always take your pain away. I look into your beautiful brown eyes and I love you more each and every day.

You are full of wonder and curiosity and I hope that you never lose that spirit. I never want you to lose that infectious laughter and your innocence. You have such a strong personality and determination and I know that will help you later in life.

This year has been amazing and filled with so many adventures and I can only imagine what the future has in store for you. Just know that we will always love you and be here for you no matter what.

~~~~
In honor of Nathan's second birthday his dad has prepared an amazing short movie of the past year. I hope you enjoy. If you would like to see the movie of his first year, the video is here. Let me know what you think

3 short days

2011-11-04T12:58:00.000+01:00

I can't believe that in just 3 days my baby boy will be turning 2! It literally seems like we just brought him home from the hospital! It's amazing how much one person can change in such a short amount of time.

Our house is now in full birthday preparation mode! Decorations are ready to go and this weekend will be filled with some heavy duty cooking/baking for the big event on Sunday! The special birthday shirt has been ordered and I can't wait until I can see the look on his face when he sees all of his balloons and cake!

I admit that I might be going overboard since he won't remember a single thing - but he'll have the pictures and luckily the video (what did our parents do before this digital age?)!

I have also been completely overwhelmed at work which is why I don't have time to update as much as I would like. I would love to write so much more today, but I will leave you with Nathan's second year photo book!

His first year photo book was such a big hit with our family (who will once again receive these as gifts for Christmas) but I'm too lazy to do a baby book - so this is the perfect compromise! I hope he will enjoy reading this one day and maybe share with his own kids.

Click here to view this photo book larger

You'll love Shutterfly's award-winning photo books. Try it today.

30 weeks

2011-11-02T12:01:00.001+01:00

Well here we are, first week in the 30's which means this baby is right around the corner. Since I know I won't make it until 40 weeks the big question is when within the next 10 weeks this baby will decide to make an appearance!

I have to admit that I'm getting to the rather uncomfortable stage in this pregnancy where it is getting really hard to pick up Nathan and definitely a lot harder to move and breathe! It hasn't helped that with Halloween all I've wanted to eat is chocolate! Luckily my will power is bigger than my cravings because I've only caved on a couple of occasions.

The great thing about having a baby pushing directly on my internal organs is that eating for 2 is definitely not an option. I can hardly eat for one before I feel a baby pushing up against my stomach. Sadly, with all of hubbub of the past week, I only got one belly shot! Here I am at exactly 30 weeks this past Friday!

Sweater Dress: Old Navy (old), Tights: Marc Jacobs, Legwarmers: Gallaries Lafayette, Boots: Zara

And just for fun, here is me at 30 weeks with Nathan....

Fete d'Halloween

2011-11-01T12:01:00.003+01:00

Which means Halloween Party in English! This year we got to celebrate Nathan's very first Halloween a la Americain!

Since Halloween isn't celebrated in France a few American families got together and had a party for the kids. It worked out well, because not only did the kids have a great time, but seeing as it was a four day weekend we all had the day off!

My mom had sent Nathan a Mickey Mouse costume last year, but he never got to wear it. Since the pants still fit, we decided to give it a go, rather than try to hunt down a costume in France. He had just woken up from nap time so it took him a while to get going. After the party got going though he was in heaven - the games, the kids, the candy! He loved bobbing for apples and looking for eyeballs inside the brain!

It was truly magical to see Nathan celebrate his first Halloween with some old friends and new friends even if we are in France! The joy in his face and his laughter was wonderful to be a part of!! I can't thank our friend Kris enough for hosting the party and putting so much work into making it special for all the kids!

But of course, it isn't a party without food! Check out my graveyard pudding...

I got the idea from my T.G.I Friday waitressing days when the kids would get a "cup o' dirt" which was essentially chocolate pudding covered with crushed oreos and some gummy worms. We went without the gummy worms and added skeletons instead - voila perfect Halloween dessert!

Check out some of the other yummy food...Witch fingers, mummy hotdogs, vampire apples, sugar cookies, etc! A pregnant woman's dream!

Hallo..what?

2011-10-31T12:01:00.001+01:00

Like I've mentioned before Halloween is not celebrated in France, at least not by most French. You can find pumpkins in the grocery store, but usually pre-cut and pre-seeded ready for eating not carving. Last year, I had good intentions to take Nathan to a small Halloween festival but that never worked out and so we have never really had an official initiation into this holiday.

My mom had bought all of these cute halloween t-shirts for Nathan after they had gone on sale last year. She gave them all to me in hopes that he might get to wear them somewhere. I had them shoved in the back of the closet and honestly didn't think I would pull them out.

I decided that since Nathan is 1/2 American afterall, that he would celebrate Halloween, even if his teachers didn't understand (even though most people have heard of the holiday). That is why, every day last week, Nathan wore one of his new t-shirts to school. I was surprised that his teachers thought it was cute and funny and they looked forward to a new t-shirt everyday.

So, I guess, rather than trying to adapt our family to the French way of living that maybe they would also enjoy to see some of our traditions. I think Nathan definitely had fun wearing spiders on his shirt!

So I hope that all of your back in the States have an amazing time trick or treating and that you all stay safe today. We are celebrating a holiday here (Toussaint) and have the day off work. We will be getting together with a few more American families and living it up (for the sake of the kids of course!).

Happy Halloween!

I have what...?

2011-10-30T13:08:00.000+01:00

Last week I was honored by Liene over at Femme au Foyer with the Stylish Blogger Award. This is extra special since Liene is one of the few bloggers that I have actually met in real life. We live in the same tiny French town and are both expatriates with the same company. We are also both expecting our second children within a couple weeks of each other!

The rules of the award are that I have to share with you 7 style tips before passing on this prestigious award to other bloggers.

I will tell you that being pregnant does not make one feel really stylish. I consider having a stylish day any day where I can still see my feet to determine whether or not my shoes match. But nonetheless, I figured I would impart my maternity style non-wisdom to everyone.

1. Always wear a cute pair of shoes. I only wear tennis shoes if I'm working out. While the rest of me might look and feel like a cow, a good pair of shoes will always fit. And even if the rest of me is looking/feeling frumpy at least my feet look cute. I'm not always talking about high heels, I wear a lot of flats, but I always make an effort to at least have a cute pair on.

2. Invest in some key pieces. I am the first to tell you how much I despise maternity clothes. It isn't the clothes so much that I despise - but the having to pay so much money for clothes I will only wear for 3 - 4 months. I did spend a few hundred dollars in some key pieces - such as jeans and work pants and a nice dress to carry me through my pregnancy. I loved items that fit that I could mix and match with my existing wardrobe. The best part, I didn't feel guilty about spending a fortune.

3. Make your existing wardrobe work for you. I didn't realize how many pieces of my own wardrobe could still be worn while 7 months pregnant. I pair cute stretch sweaters with an under tank, or those longer t-shirts with my maternity jeans. What about those skirts with the elastic waistband that can be worn under the belly, or even those comfy dresses with a higher waistline. Not only will you be comfortable, but you will also look great while rocking what you already own.

4. Rock the bump. If you've got it, flaunt it. Is that how the saying goes? I love to show off my bump (now that I have one), so I always try to wear clothes that dress it up, rather than cover it behind tons of materials. It's a special time in your life that should be remembered and embraced.

5. Get outside and move (unless you are on bed rest of course)! I'm stealing this one from Liene! French women are so cute and tiny while pregnant because they walk everywhere. Even if you aren't power walking to lose weight, the fresh air and the sun on your face will do wonders for you and help accentuate that pregnancy glow!

6. Get out of your PJ's. Trust me, there are days when all I want to do is wear sweatpants and t-shirts and sit on the couch. It's amazing what just getting dressed (even in jeans and a t-shirt) can do for your state of mind. So even if you don't plan on going anywhere, throw your hair up - change out of your hubby's clothes and go for a walk around the block.

7. Embrace this time! Your body is changing, your family is changing, everything is changing. Embrace it. And when you husband/partner is telling you that you are beautiful - believe it! You are creating a life and that is beauty!

And now for the fun part...I get to pass this award on to other fabulous bloggers. Please stop by and show them some love.

Marc from Our Simple Lives - because no one can rock a Santa outfit in October like he can
Katherine from Paid in China - because any girl who can wear a face mask and still look cute has some serious style!
Quiana from Harlem Love Birds - because she always looks so put together and her daughter Nia is just the cutest!
Sara from Our Breezy Beach Life because she always looks so gorgeous and put together even at 30+ weeks pregnant.

(Rules: Post your 7 and pass it on!)

My Big 22...

2011-10-27T12:35:00.000+02:00

I'm far from being 22, but as a woman in my early 30's there are definitely a lot of things I have done. Some of these things I've been proud of, some things I'm embarrassed about but all of these things have made me who I am.

So...let me share 22 things that I have done:

22. I have visited over 12 countries

21. I have lived in 3 different foreign countries

20. Speak three languages

19. Kissed my husband on top of the Eiffel Tower

18. Was 2 credits shy of having a double major in college and didn't do it.

17. Been to New York during Christmas time

16. Enjoyed a 100 euro bottle of wine

15. Lost over 60 pounds in one year

14. Owned a BMW and was too scared to drive it in traffic

13. Eaten rattlesnake

12. Eaten worms, ant eggs and grasshoppers while on a business trip to Mexico

11. Driven cross country across the United States

10. Moved out of my parent's home at the age of 17

9. Worked my way through college as a waitress

8. Have been to too many drag shows

7. Traveled the world for free when I worked for an airline in Phoenix

6. Seen Paul McCartney in concert while 6 months pregnant all while dancing in the rain

5. Have walked into a living room while a naked man slept on the couch (funniest night ever)

4. Cry at almost every girlie movie

3. Have held grudges for years

2. Have known most of my friends for over 15 years and I love them all

1. Cried on both my wedding day and when the placed my son in my arms for the first time.

29 Weeks

2011-10-26T14:04:00.000+02:00

My last week in the 20's, it is crazy to think that the baby could be here in less than 7 weeks. We are definitely not ready.

Physically, I'm doing very well, although there are days when I feel like a beached whale. Even Cornel has noticed that my belly is much bigger now than it was with Nathan. I still haven't had any cravings and my maternity clothes are still not fitting the way they are supposed to. I haven't been sleeping very well, but I guess as they say this is my body's way of adjusting me to those sleepless nights, right?

We have been trying to spend as much time with Nathan before his "brudder" arrives. Luckily the weather has been cooperating and we have been able to spend some time outside and let him get out to play. There are still some preparations that have to be done, like getting our house in order. But that will come soon enough.

Sweater: Ann Taylor, Shirt: Old Navy, Leggings: Motherhood Maternity, Boots: Zara

I really thought this outfit looked cute on, until I saw these pictures. The big brown sweater only made me look fat. I will not be wearing this again until after the baby is born!

Dress: Prenatale, Tights & Boots: Zara

Cornel made me buy this when we were in Verona because it was on sale for 3 euros. I thought it was a shirt and thought, why not, I can always use a maternity shirt. Turns out it's a dress and super cute. I wish I hadn't waited to so long to wear it.

Sweater: Tommy Hilfiger, Cords: Motherhood Maternity

Here I am in all of my make-up less glory. In my defense, I had the day off and didn't want to put on make-up just to wash dishes and roam around. I did put on mascara though, does that count?

Making Traditions

2011-10-25T14:34:00.001+02:00

Being a part of a multi-racial, international family isn't easy especially when you throw in living in a foreign country. Being parents we've had to make the decisions about which traditions to impart on our kids.

We would love for them to embrace all traditions, Romanian, American and Mexican but that's not possible. Then there are the French traditions, which although are not part of mine and Cornel's culture - they are a part of Nathan's. The past two years we have been traveling blindly trying to determine what traditions are worth exposing Nathan to and which ones aren't important.

I have to admit that Cornel has been an amazing person and has let me take charge of most holidays (and making them more American). He knows how important they are too me, and while I know that Easter is about more than a bunny and Christmas is much more than Santa - he has more than willingly accepted this and has let us pass this on to Nathan.

But even with all of the compromises that we make, there are always those seasons which are harder; harder for me than for Nathan or even Cornel. Fall is one of those seasons. I see all of these amazing pictures of people with their kids at pumpkin patches and apple farms - but we don't have that choice. I would love Nathan to do "fall activities" to enjoy the season, but it isn't an option for us.

Then there are all of the Halloween posts and costume pictures. Again, another American holiday which isn't celebrated here. I don't have any cute pictures of Nathan in a costume, no trick or treat stories to tell. This year, however, we are bringing the American holiday across the ocean and throwing our own party; because every child needs a day to play dress up and eat candy.

There will be no official Thanksgivings, no fourth of july barbecues - but there will always be family and there will always be love. And those are some of the best traditions we can impart on our sons.

So this is Fall?

2011-10-24T16:54:00.000+02:00

I always used to joke that the only thing French people could talk about was food and the weather. It is quite understandable now, since most days revolve around either eating or trying to figure out whether or not the "meteo" (weather report) is correct or not.

Last week we went from summer like temperatures (high 80's) to almost winter temperatures (32 degrees) overnight. Talk about a hard adjustment! It was nearly border line depressing, since we seemed to have skipped right over fall and jumped right into winter.

Luckily but Saturday, the weather found middle ground and we had the perfect mix of fall weather. The sun was shining but the air was brisk. We decided to take full advantage and took Nathan to the Parc de Montjoly in Chamalieres.

This park is our favorite, not only because it is right across the street from our house, but also because it is one of the few parks in France not completely covered in dog poop {bonus}! It also has a great little playground area for the kids which is surrounded by beautiful flowers and fountains.

The leaves were on the ground and there were so many beautiful yellow trees. It still pales in comparison to the falls of the Carolinas back home, but the magic of the day was enough to make it a perfect fall afternoon.

A little football {soccer}, some sunshine and sliding down the swing set. What more can a person ask for?

3 Little Monkeys

2011-10-20T13:54:00.000+02:00

If you follow me on twitter then you've probably seen this beautiful photo below. It is one of my favorite pictures, I mean really - any pictures with Monkeys has to be good.

In 2007 before heading on a cruise around the Caribbean we stayed with friends in Miami. In their family room they had the most AWESOME monkey portraits. Seriously! We were so in love with the three monkey portraits that we even named them. This one was Tallulah. I could hardly leave Miami without taking a picture with her. In an homage to her and her beautiful flowered headpiece, I had to try and recreate it. We were at a lack of flowers - but not wax fruit, and so after a few moments I too was transformed into Tallulah!

I have searched high and low for a portrait like Tallulah, but sadly have had no luck and this is why I cherish this picture so.

Let us not forget her two friends....

See aren't they awesome? Wouldn't you love to have them in your living room?

We were so enamored by these monkeys that we tried to recreate their pictures the entire time we were on our cruise.

Tallulah will forever hold a special place in my heart.

28 weeks

2011-10-19T11:44:00.000+02:00

Another week, another dollar...is that how the saying goes? Except in my case another week means another pound gained!

I feel like I'm growing exponentially lately and I'm so uncomfortable. Sitting at a desk for over 10 hours a day I'm sure isn't helping the situation. I remember the days during my first pregnancy when I could just lay on the couch and rest, but trying to chase a busy toddler with a huge belly is no easy task. Luckily, I can count on my hands the number of weeks until my maternity leave. In France you start your maternity leave 6 weeks before your due date, which means I only have 6 weeks left of work. The day cannot come soon enough.

The weather here has been amazing lately, so I've been able to go out and enjoy the sunshine. My maternity clothes are still iffy, however. My pants don't fit and they fall down so often that it makes it look like I've crapped my pants. Definitely not an attractive look for me. But my maternity shirts, even though they are still too big, are so comfy and roomy that I love to wear them all the time.

Dress: Ann Taylor (old); Scarf: Florence street Vendor; Sunglasses: Fendi; tights and boots Zara

On Sunday we went to a little town in the mountains, Murol to enjoy the fall scenery. It was such a great day and such a great way to spend Sunday as a family.

Jeans & Cardigan: Motherhood Maternity; Shirt: H&M; Shoes: Tod's

Breakdown

2011-10-18T11:42:00.002+02:00

We've all done it. We've all seen the mother/father with the screaming child and said a little prayer.

A little prayer for that poor parent trying to handle the situation.

A little prayer thanking God that for that moment that isn't us.

Maybe we judge, maybe we empathize - but we've all had an opinion. We pretend we don't see, pretend we don't see - we walk by without making eye contact.

I know I've done it. I've been the mother with the well behaved toddler who loved shopping. The one who would sympathize with those other mothers all the while saying "thank God that's not me".

Then it happened.

Last month while shopping after work - complete toddler meltdown. There was screaming - there were tears. My perfect angel had turned into an uncontrollable little person.

I tried to calm him down.

I tried to bribe him.

I even tried a mini time out.

FAIL, FAIL, FAIL!

The screaming, crying and kicking only got worse as we got in the car. As soon as we approached the front door he threw himself on the floor and screamed louder - those shrieking, piercing screams!

I broke. I closed the door and try to compose myself. The screaming baby on the other side of the door.

He began knocking and immediately my tears started flowing.

What had I done? What kind of mother closes the door on her child. I picked him up and held him tight even though he fought me every second.

I felt so much shame - staring into the eyes of my son. I am supposed to be his rock - the one that protects him, the one that consoles him. Not the one that shuts him out.

Eventually he calmed down, went to bed, but as I found out toddlers are not so quick to forgive and forget. I received the silent treatment - no hugs or kisses for a couple of days and then life resumed like normal - even though the emotions of that night will be with me for a long time to come.

Hopefully I will be less quick to judge. Less quick to say those little prayers in the grocery store. Less quick to let my emotions get the better of me.

M.I.A

2011-10-17T11:35:00.001+02:00

I have been a little absent lately and it seems that life finally caught up with me. I have been incredibly busy at work and once I get home I am in birthday party overload.

I do this to myself every year. I build up these expectations of what I want Nathan's party to be and then I realize that I am in way over my head. And all for a 2 year old's birthday party. Just call me insane. I complain about it every year and then I get sucked into doing it all over again. What is going to happen when I have 2 birthday parties to plan in one year?

As for this weekend, my mom was gracious enough to mail me a glue gun all the way from the US because I couldn't find one here in France. I'm sure they exist - I just obviously wasn't hitting up the right stores. Armed with a glue gun in hand I set out to make out these lovely accessories for Nathan's Mickey party. It all seemed so simple - the directions seemed fool proof. But I overestimated my ability with a glue gun. I only managed to make 2 and they are filled with my blood sweat and tears - and oh yeah burnt skin! It will all be worth it right?

source

I have also been up to my nose in subway art, cupcake toppers and my living room looks like the Mickey Clubhouse has exploded.

But all in all, this weekend was productive. And Nathan even wanted to pick up some accessories while we went grocery shopping on Saturday.

But now, things seem to be getting back to normal, as normal as they can be around here and I will hopefully have more time to blog about all of the shenanigans going on around here. Hopefully you will stick with me.

27 weeks

2011-10-12T13:20:00.000+02:00

The weather in Clermont has been crazy lately. Summer heat one day and winter temperatures the next. Where is the fall weather? This has made getting dressed such a challenge this week because most of my maternity clothes are really only one season type items. Not to mention that my maternity pants are still too big!! I spend half of my day lifting them up or trying to roll them over to keep them from being around my waist by lunch time. Such a sad dilema - too fat for regular clothes to small for maternity clothes.

The good news is, that so far this pregnancy is going great and the baby is moving constantly. I have some back pain that has been lingering since my first pregnancy but luckily Cornel always comes to the rescue. The best part, however, is that I get to get out of the heavy duty chores (not that I did them much before anyway).

Seeing as how this baby can make an appearance any week now, I've started going into panic mode. So, I've started washing all of the newborn clothing and making sure things start getting ready. Call me paranoid.

Nathan is still loving having conversations with his brother, although he still doesn't realize that he doesn't have a brother in his belly. Oh well, he'll figure it out soon enough. Here we are at exactly 27 weeks, getting ready to head off to work and daycare.

Sweater: Hollister, Tank: Old Navy; Jeans: Motherhood Maternity;Shoes: Puma

Pointing at our Belly's

Nathan - Shirt: United Colors of Benetton; Pants: Zara Baby, Shoes: Gift from grandma

And here is a picture of me with Nathan at 27 weeks. Is it my imagination or is my behind 10X bigger now than it was back then? I look like a cow now compared to how I looked back then - which is sad considering I weigh less. Oh, this is what happens when you get older....

23 months

2011-10-10T11:38:00.001+02:00

I'm in denial that my sweet baby boy will be two in just a few short weeks. Wasn't it just yesterday that I was bringing him home from the hospital and adjusting to those sleepless nights?

This month - Nathan has been in rare form - which leads me to believe that the terrible two's will be just that. He is very inquisitive and loves to explore everything. He is constantly talking although we can only understand about half of what he is saying and his languages are all over the place. I have started making the mistake of giving him commands in French rather than English, which I really need to stop doing. I really would love for him to make the separation between English at home and French at school, but I think the entire family is just too jumbled.

He loves to say "assis" (sit) whenever he wants to sit somewhere or whenever he is sitting somewhere and now his colors are starting to come in French. While before they were all in English now they are coming in both - "rouge red" is red. He also has a little trouble with his animals and loves to point at "les cows" rather than "les vaches", but it's cute. I do love that his teachers make an effort to let him express himself in English when he needs to. Which was a big fear of mine.

He has turned out to be quite the little helper, and every night before he goes to bed he puts away all of his books and all of his toys. Now if only I could get him to clean my kitchen - we'd be in business! He does love to take the broom and run it all over the house, and while he makes more of a mess I love that he tries to be helpful.

His appetite is growing and he is venturing out to try new things as opposed to the hot dogs and pasta last month. He is now fully eating what we are eating and loves to eat with us. The only problem is that he much rather eat off our plates than his own, but as long as he eating - who am I to complain (for the time being).

He is still the sweetest boy and greets us each morning with a hug and kiss. He loves to cuddle with us on the couch and read books. I am trying to soak up all of his innocence before it disappears one day and he is just 'too cool' for mommy.

5000 Miles

2011-10-06T12:02:00.003+02:00

"Why did you decide to marry me?", I remember asking once.

He looked surprise at such a question and then simply responded, "because I knew I had to marry the girl that flew over 5000 miles to be with me..."

I remember the day he asked me to go to Romania during the summer. I had business trips all month with a one week break. It would be exhausting to fly to Romania and then catch a flight directly after for Mexico City without any chance of recovering the jet lag. However, I never gave it a second thought, if I didn't fly out in August - I wouldn't have seen him until Christmas.

I flew over 24 hours each way to spend five glorious days with him - it was important enough for him to ask so it was important enough to make it work. That week he proposed.

Long distance relationships are never easy. There are a lot of sacrifices that have to be done and there has to be a serious commitment to making it work.

People always thought I was crazy to have a relationship with someone so far away - someone whose work schedule was worse than my own. Very few people understood why I would even go through the hassle. The late night phone calls, the trips back and forth, the hundreds of emails.

In my heart I knew - I knew that he was worth the effort. I knew that he had a special place in my heart. After 3 years of marriage and 1.5 kids later, there is no doubt in my mind that I made the right choice.

Submitted as part of Mama Kat's writing workshop.

26 weeks

2011-10-05T12:02:00.000+02:00

This is an exciting week since I'm officially in my 3rd trimester! The finish line is near, quite near actually according to my doctor. I had a visit on Tuesday and he is already stressing me out about the pre-term labor. He will be a happy camper if I can make it to 36 weeks, which means that in 10 weeks our little bundle of joy might make his appearance. Is it me, or does that just seem crazy soon?

Also, my iron is low - which is nothing new. So I just have to keep taking supplements and hope that it makes a difference. Darn you anemia! I also gained another kilo (2 pounds) this month so now I'm up 3kgs this pregnancy (6 pounds) which is ironic because I feel like a cow. I feel much bigger than I did with Nathan, but I guess I'm about the same.

This baby also loves to have dance parties, especially at night. I guess he inherited that from me. If this is any indication of what he will be like "on the outside", we are going to be in trouble. I have a feeling that he will be our "wild child". Only time will tell.

Shirt: Hubby's undershirt refashioned by moi; maxi dress: C&A; shoes: Tod's

On Nathan- Shirt & belt - Carter's (gift from grandma); Jeans & Shoes; Baby Zara, Lovie (aka dou dou): Carter's

I thought I really loved this shirt, turns out it doesn't look so great on. Oh well, you live you learn. And Nathan does not want to miss an opportunity to take a bump pic either!

Shirt: Motherhood Maternity (hand me down from my lovely friend Pilar); Pants: Motherhood Maternity; Shoes: Nine West

And just because it's always fun to compare...here I am pregnant with Nathan at 26 weeks

Can you believe this picture of me at an airport Starbucks is the best pic I've got at 26 weeks? Sad but true.

So not French

2011-10-03T15:02:00.001+02:00

First I want to thank everyone for the wonderful birthday wishes last week. I only wish that I could celebrate my birthday all month, but alas today is just another day.

Keeping in the spirit of "acceptance", I thought I would share with you all of the things I thought were French before moving here, that in reality are not French at all.

At first, I was so excited that I was moving to France since most of the things I used to buy in the US where French something or other...so I thought it would be fun to share the list of things that are French only in the States.

5. French Toast - Yup, this one made me sad. Someone once told me that in France is called "pain perdu", but no French person I have ever asked has heard of it and I have yet to see it anywhere at breakfast time.

4. French onion - They do make a delicious soupe a l'oignon (onion soup) but nothing else that claims to be French onion exists, including that delicious dip that I've been craving for six months. Luckily my mother has started sending a small supply across the ocean to keep me going.

3. French manicure - Please feel free to read the story here about the time I went to get a "manicure francaise", which doesn't exist. Well actually it does exist but it's also called "french" in English.

2. Le French Kiss - French love to "faire le bises" (give kisses) that's for sure. I can spend half my morning giving kisses on both cheeks to anyone that walks by. I have yet, however, seen the "french kissers" running rampant on the street.

1. French Vanilla - This one was actually the most depressing because I only drink my coffee with that yummy French Vanilla creamer. In fact, there is no vanilla grown anywhere in France, so I'm not sure where this came from but I was so sad when I had to start drinking my coffee with regular milk. Talk about false advertising.

Thankfully for me, there were a lot of things that I was expecting to make up for some of the culture shock. I don't know what I would have done if there wouldn't have been any croissants in France!

Joyeux Anniversaire

2011-09-30T13:06:00.001+02:00

My husband has always been so amazing at making my birthday special. He is always planning special gifts and dinners and surprise parties. I love him for it, because there is nothing I love more than birthdays. This year though, I begged and pleaded for something low key.

I told him that I didn't feel like getting dressed up and finding a sitter to go out to a fancy dinner. All I wanted to do was sit in my PJ's and eat pizza and cake (because I seriously never get to do that)!

Since my birthday fell on a Monday (and who wants to celebrate birthdays on Monday?) Cornel and Nathan woke me up with breakfast in bed on Sunday morning. It was such a special moment. Nathan climbed on the bed, gave me my card and then proceeded to eat half of my breakfast. I could have never imagined my life so full than at that very moment.

The rest of the day went exactly as planned complete with pizza for lunch. My husband cleaned the entire house while I got to relax with Nathan. What more can a girl ask for?

I was also showered with beautiful roses and presents. I had picked out my gifts while on vacation, so it was nice that I finally got to put them to use. I opened up my gorgeous shoes that I bought in Milan...

I love them...

And then of course there were my earrings that I picked up at the factory in Austria.

Later in the evening I got to enjoy my delicious raspberry tiramisu cake from Maison Vacher. If you are ever in the area you have to stop by, really. This is the best boulangerie in Chamalieres! We've gotten all of our pastries, cakes and breads there for over 3 years because it is seriously THAT good! Those are fresh blackberry macarons on top of the cake...

Of course, I had a little help blowing out the candles. I have to say that even with baby spit all over it, the cake was still delicious!

It was such a special weekend and so glad that I got to spend it with my family. Sadly, on my real birthday I spent the day at work, but I had the memories (and extra cake) to help make it through.

What would I do...

2011-09-29T14:04:00.000+02:00

I don't think that one week goes by without me uttering the words "I wish I didn't have to go to work today", although I've never given much thought to what I would do if I weren't working.

10. Clean the house. I also love to utter the words "if I didn't have to work so much I could clean the house", but who am I kidding? I hate to clean and the house would be just as messy (if not much more if I were staying home).

source

9. Become Susie Homemaker. I would be the woman who greets her family after a long day all dolled up in high heels and pearls. A martini and slippers for my husband and fresh chocolate chip cookies for the kids. Dinner would also be lovingly prepared from scratch each night. Okay - not true. I would do none of this, but I would like to maybe learn to cook a little better and maybe make a dinner that didn't involve some sort of frozen food.

source

8. Get my craft on. I would love to actually get creative and do things that I don't get to do in my spare time. Like scrapbook or sew - okay maybe not scrapbook since I have 0 patience but maybe sewing.

7. Save the environment. I would join these groups that save the environment you know like the NRDC and do something worthwhile with my time. Okay, maybe also an exaggeration - I'm lucky if I can sort the trash for the recycling every week. So maybe I would just not shower and get pretty everyday and call the water conservation "going green" and definitely find time to sort the garbage.

6. Join the PTA. I'd become one of these involved parents that I see everyday. You know - the ones that give the evil eye to parents like me for never having the time to get involved. I do give a good evil eye - so this has some potential.

5. Watch TV & eat bon bons. Seriously, at least for one portion of my day I want to be able to watch something other than the Disney Channel. I would get dragged into mindless soap operas (like I did during my maternity leave) and enjoy the mindless entertainment.

4. Nap. My son gets to take a 3 hour nap at school, I think I deserve the same.

3. Exercise. Because after doing nothing but watching TV while eating bons bons and napping I'm going to need to feel better about myself.

2. Stalk all of my friends on Facebook. Because the couple of hours that I get to do it at night isn't nearly enough time.

1. Shop! Oh how I would love to go shopping without a stroller or toddler in tow. I would try on all of those gorgeous non-mom clothes that I can't afford and daydream - then I leave the store without buying a thing.

What would you do if you didn't have to work?

Submitted as part of Mama Kat's writing workshop.

25 weeks

2011-09-28T11:30:00.002+02:00

What a week...it's been full of fun and excitement. It started with a great family weekend and my birthday {more to come on that later}. I can't believe that I'm at 25 weeks, I know I say that every week but it seriously feels like time is flying by.

There is finally no denying that I'm pregnant, which is a great thing. That means that baby boy is growing. My mom sent me some cute maternity tops from the States which I've been wearing lately although I'm still in my non-maternity pants. Sadly, my belly still isn't big enough to keep them up and pregnant or not a saggy butt is not an attractive butt!

I've still been sleeping okay and haven't had any unusual cravings, although I did indulge in some raspberry tiramisu cake - because it's not fun being pregnant if you can't eat junk every once in a while.

I have already started washing newborn clothes and making room in the closets for baby #2. I hate cleaning and organizing so while it seems like it's really early to start, it might just take me until December to finish!

top: gift from my mom, jeans: Abercrombie, shoes: Puma

Shirt: Gap Maternity, Skirt: Made by moi; Shoes: Tod's (birthday present from the hubs)

Shirt: Made by moi; cardigan Old Navy; jeans: Motherhood Maternity; shoes Tod's, Necklace: Tiffany's,

When I was 25 weeks pregnant with Nathan I was having my very baby shower in Arizona. Crazy how time flies.

The Right Thing

2011-09-27T13:43:00.000+02:00

There are those days when I struggle - struggle with trying to decide what is the right thing.

The right thing for me; the right thing for our family. Whenever I look into the face of my son I wonder if we are doing the right thing by staying in France.

I grew up surrounded by family - cousins, aunts, uncles. I always had that built in system of friends, of support of love. Even now, 30 years later the bonds are still there. I hurt when my family hurts, I share in their joys even from thousands of miles away. When I think to my childhood these are the fond memories that I always remember.

And what have I done, I have stripped this opportunity from my son. Is it fair that he grows up without any family nearby? Is it fair that I'm denying him that relationship with people that share his blood. Will he just grow up, knowing about those "strangers" that he sees once a year that live so far away.

Will he grow up thinking that his grandparents live behind a computer screen. Is it fair to deny him their love, their hugs, their kisses and all of the spoiling that grandparents are supposed to do to their grandchildren?

I struggle with the guilt of living so far away - struggle with how our choices will impact our sons. And now with baby #2, the guilt is doubled.

I am reassured by the fact that at least my sons will always have each other. Reassured by the fact that our family has survived and that we have learned to rely on each other and hopefully that is the right thing. It's at least the right thing for right now.

Clear the Roads....

2011-09-26T12:20:00.001+02:00

For years my husband has been telling me that I need my own car - but honestly after the whole driving debacle of 2008 - I was a little car shy.

Plus the fact that I was still in denial about the fact that we would be staying here for any long period of time. I mean I didn't want to buy a car if we were leaving in a couple of months. But now that I'm in my new "acceptance" mode and expecting our second child we knew we would have to make the investment soon enough and in an automatic car no less.

I spent my days staring at all of the cute European cars on the road dreaming up the pros and cons of such cars. I always pictured myself in a cute Italian car that left no room for car seats but that I would look absolutely great in...such as the Fiat 500 (doesn't it look like a toy)

My husband suggested a smart car, because then I wouldn't have to parallel park (which I don't know how to do by the way)... I mean, look I could park this thing anywhere and put the kids in the trunk or on the roof maybe...

But alas, all of these were pipe dreams because while we loved to talk about it, we hadn't done anything about it.

Then came the message from above, in email form none-the-less about the used automatic car for sale. It belonged to an expat family that was heading back to the states and they wanted to sell it. It's as if it was made for me. It's 7 years old and only had 12000 miles on it (um...brand new). We went out to take a look and we were SOLD.

It's a Renault Scenic the closest thing to a mini-van that you will probably see in France. Isn't she pretty...I've named her Minnie...

Now the kids won't have to ride in the trunk and my husband can stop chauffeuring me around...it's a win-win! Plus since this fell right around my birthday, my husband now gets to tell everyone how he bought me a car - earning him major husband points and bragging rights to anyone who asks.

Now I just have to change the plates and registration and spend an eternity at the prefecture (city hall) and oh yea...learn to parallel park. It's always something here in France!

Toddler Bed Experiment

2011-09-23T14:01:00.000+02:00

Right before going on vacation we decided that we were going to take the plunge and transition Nathan from his crib to a toddler bed.

We both thought it was way too soon, but with the arrival of baby #2 we knew we would have no choice. We wanted to have the crib ready for the baby and we had high hopes of Nathan being in his big boy bed by the time his brother was born.

Rather than making a big commitment to a toddler bed right away, we decided to do the transition by taking the side off of his crib.

We picked the big day - took the side off and let Nathan explore his new bed all afternoon. He loved climbing in and out. Putting all of his stuffed animals on the bed and then taking them all off again. We were excited and thought this toddler bed transition was going to be a piece of cake!

Then nighttime came, we laid Nathan down in his bed sang a goodnight song and read him a book. His little eyes were small and sleepy and we snuck out of his room. No sooner had we crossed into the hallway when we hear the door squeak open and a sleepy eyed toddler making his way out to the living room again. We must have put him back to bed at least 10 times that night. We decided to finally just spend the night in his room until he was really asleep. Later that evening as we sat on the couch talking about the night we heard it "THUMP" - Nathan had fallen out of bed.

Very little sleep was had that night and the nights that followed. We were wondering whether or not he was really too young for the toddler bed.

Then something miraculous started happening - he started staying in his room. At first he would sleep on the floor, others in his chair, but not running out of his room every 2 minutes.

Then little by little, he started sleeping in his bed. And before we knew, he would voluntarily go to bed at night and sleep in his little bed.

Could it be that in only 2 months my son had mastered the big boy bed?

Life is so much easier now for all of us. He goes to bed voluntarily at 8 PM and he wakes up and comes out of his room on his own. No crying or whining for "mama" or "daddy". Just a sleepy-eyed toddler with bed head who makes his way over to hug and kiss us in the morning.

Even when we were about to crack those first couple of weeks - we stuck it through. And now we are ready to go and purchase Nathan's very own big boy bed! A bittersweet milestone for me as I realize that the baby that was once too small for his crib is now ready for a bigger bed.

F is for Gym

2011-09-22T13:33:00.001+02:00

It's probably no surprise to any of you that know me that I have not been blessed with any athletic ability. Ever since I was little I have been blessed with a unique lack of coordination.

Given this fact, I think my parents were still surprised when they received a letter that I might not graduate high school because of my gym grade - yes gym as in PE.

Since I had only taken gym my freshman year I had a hard time trying to figure out how on earth I could have managed to screw up my grade in gym of all classes.

As it turns out, it was all due to a surgery I had my freshman year which forced me to be out of school for 2 weeks and sit out gym class for an entire month. I thought that since I had a doctors note that prohibited me from any physical exercise for 4 weeks - that I was in the clear. I would dress up in my gym clothes and go and hang out while my classmates played volleyball and ran laps. Never in my wildest dreams did I think that my lack of participation for medical reasons meant I would fail gym!

With only 2 weeks left until graduation my mother was irate and I was cursing the day they made gym a mandatory subject. To this day - I have no idea how all of those hours kickball have made a contribution in my life.

I went and groveled on hands and knees to my old teacher to change my grade. She was less than understanding and could have cared less if I graduated or not. Fair enough - it had been four years since I had failed her class. Eventually after getting sick of me begging she agreed to give me an incomplete and let me make up my missed hours in the remaining 2 weeks.

I kissed my senior half days goodbye and had to join all of the new freshman for gym. It was humbling and infuriating all at the same time. After my sentence was up she changed my grade from an Incomplete to a C - good enough for me to graduate but not good enough for me to forgive and forget.

I did have high hopes of my classmates rallying together chanting "Donna Martin graduate..." oh wait, wrong high school

Submitted as part of Mama Kat's writing workshop.

24 weeks

2011-09-21T12:22:00.000+02:00

I feel like I've reached a huge milestone at 24 weeks, especially considering the baby chances of survival should he be born after this week have increased significantly. My doctor is constantly scaring me about my risk of premature labor, so I'll take any victories I can get.

Other than that, there hasn't been anything too exciting going on lately. The baby is growing and I am (finally) growing, which is great. Nathan still points at his own belly and says brother and he still loves to have conversations with my belly, which is cute.

Dress: Mango, Belt & Boots: Zara, Shirt & Tights: Old Navy

It's gotten really cold lately, so I had to bring out the tights and winter clothing - which is crazy considering it's September!! I didn't have any fall boots and set out on a mission, but the sad thing is that my shoe size can only be found in the children's section. I found these great boots at Zara Girls and the great things about kid's shoes is that they are about half the price!

And because it's always fun to compare, here is a picture with Nathan at 24 weeks....

I was in Atlanta at 24 weeks with Nathan and loving every minute of it!

Acceptance

2011-09-20T12:21:00.001+02:00

Is acceptance the last stage of grief? If so, I think I have finally arrived.

I have come to accept the fact that I live in France and I have to come to terms with the decision that we took three years ago.

I have always thought of our situation as temporary and have never allowed myself to settle in, to make friends to enjoy this opportunity that we've been given.

I find myself always wishing for the things "back home", I fill my days longing about what I would do if I were back in the States. I find myself always comparing what I do here to how I would them back home. Always saying how much easier my life would be had we just stayed in South Carolina.

It isn't fair. It's not fair to my son or my husband and it isn't fair to me.

France is the only home my son has ever known - this language this culture and it's people are part of who he is. I hope and pray that he doesn't lose his American or Romanian identity, but I have to remind myself that France is also part of his identity.

Thanks to this experience he is learning and speaking 3 languages. He has visited over 8 countries and traveled more in his 2 years than more people travel in a lifetime.

I fought this life for so long, afraid of losing my identity, afraid of losing myself and my connection with anything familiar. I have finally realized that living here doesn't mean having to make a choice or sacrifice the person that I am.

And so, I have decided to accept the fact that I live here. To stop crying for the things I can't have here, the things I don't have and focus on what I do have.

I have no idea how much longer we will be in France. A few more months? A few more years? But as long as I am here I will embrace what is around me and be content in the life we are building as a family.

Skinny Minnies

2011-09-19T12:57:00.000+02:00

If you walk into the office of my OBGYN you will see nothing but tiny pregnant women. If you ask their due dates you will almost fall back in your chair. Women who are six and seven months pregnant sporting a tiny little bump that you would think is brand new.

I remember looking around during my first pregnancy and thinking "I wish I can look like that at six months pregnant". But I guess this is to be expected in a country where even the first lady can rock a bikini while in her 3rd trimester and look great.

While I read about "skinny pregnancy" being a trend in the US, here in France it is a way of life. Maternity clothes are made in Extra Small and sell out quickly. There is actually no secret formula and the women are definitely not starving themselves.

So how do they stay so thin and healthy while pregnant?

1) Eat well, eat fresh

While you can find a fast food restaurant in every corner in the US, they are a hard to come by commodity in France which means women make healthier choices. Most people buy their food fresh each day or at least every few days and even in a country where people can eat their weight in bread, the bread is baked fresh every day and does not come in a plastic bag - meaning there are no added preservatives or conservatives (for all of my francophone readers)!

2) Walk

Most French people walk, everywhere. A crazy concept I know since very little can be done in the US without a car, but here it is a way of life. Mothers walk their kids to school, people walk to work and to the store and it isn't unusual to see people biking to work rather than driving even in the winter.

3) Medical System

There is such a strong social emphasis on prenatal (and postnatal) care that doctors and hospitals take a very active role during pregnancy. From the first appointment my doctor has made it very clear what his expectations are of me and definitely takes the time to explain what is/isn't healthy. There is definitely no "eating for two" mentality but rather about educating what should be eaten to maintain a healthy weight for both mom and baby.

And let's not forge the wonderfully state funded re-education classes that help get your um...muscles back into shape after birth.

4) Life in Moderation

While French women take extra-ordinary care of themselves they also know when too much is too much. You probably won't bat an eye at a pregnant woman enjoying a nice glass of champagne (aperitif) from time to time or indulging in a mousse au chocolate with her caffeinated coffee. Because as in all French culture, it is these small pleasures that make life worth living.

What do you think about skinny pregnancy and this way of life? Do you think it's healthy?

Happy Family in Paris

2011-09-18T11:02:00.001+02:00

I'm so excited this morning because I'm guest posting on Anytrip.com on how to have a successful family vacation in Paris!

As you know we have been to Paris on numerous occasions with our son beginning from when he was around 4 months old! I was so honored when Anytrip asked me to write a little bit about my experience.

Please go and read my post which will hopefully inspire you to take the plunge and have a family adventure in Paris.

Anytrip is a great website which lets you book hotels and hostels with no booking fees. You could also plan your flights, sightseeing tours and rental cars for the same trip!

And when you stop by don't forget to check out their Love Paris contest that they have going where you could enter to win a free trip to Paris! You could also check them out on twitter and on facebook!

So what are you waiting for...go and check out my post and Anytrip right now!

Please note that I was not compensated in anyway for this post, I just really love Paris!

Pig Pickin'

2011-09-16T12:24:00.000+02:00

Last year we went to our very first Southern Pig Pickin', which is quite ironic considering we were in France, and this past Sunday we were invited to attend our second annual Pig Pickin'.

As soon as the invitation came, I didn't even hesitate and replied yes immediately! Besides the fact that I would be eating delicious southern style barbecue, complete with homemade sauces - it was an entire day where I would get to speak English!

The weather was cloudy but the food was delicious. It was so great to see Nathan running and playing since last year he was confined to the stroller.

And he also got to try the food for the first time. Although he much preferred to have the hotdogs and pasta salad than the barbecue.

waiting to be kissed again

He was also reunited with Emerson and Meade, two adorable twins that were with him at daycare but have since left for school. It didn't hurt that they showered him with kisses, which he didn't refuse.

All in all it was a perfect way to spend a Sunday afternoon. It made me so nostalgic and even a little homesick for South Carolina. It was so amazing to have a little piece of home even in France!

Unsolicited Advice

2011-09-15T12:01:00.000+02:00

It seems that the moment you tell people you are pregnant they take it upon themselves to impart tons of unsolicited advice.

It isn't just limited to family and friends but even strangers on the street. It seems that the pregnancy bump is an open invitation for people to tell you what/what not to do and of course share their pearls of motherly wisdom. I especially loved it when non-mothers would share advice on breast-feeding, co-sleeping and the like.

I foolishly thought that being pregnant with my second baby, the advice would stop. I mean I've had one baby and survived, so I guess I should know what I'm doing. I was wrong, people have an even stronger desire to share advice with me.

So, I promise to not impart any of my own advice on new mothers but I will tell you what advice is a complete joke.

Sleep when the baby sleeps
This is a doozie - and most people's favorite. Let me tell you that it is impossible to sleep when your baby sleeps. When are you supposed to eat or heaven forbid shower if you spend the 2 glorious hours you have to yourself sleeping? Who are they kidding?

Crying = hungry
Let me tell you that my newborn cried a lot! Granted yes, some of those times he was hungry and other times I think he was just annoyed that I kept trying to feed him to get him to stop crying. Crying does not equal hungry and every baby is different.

If you just let them cry they will learn to sleep through the night...
or other types of useless sleep advice. Don't let them sleep in your room, let them sleep in your room, feed them formula at night etc. etc. The list of sleep advice could go on for hours. Just because something worked for one baby/mother doesn't mean it will work for another. And while we are at it, if you see me completely sleep deprived - please don't tell that your kid was sleeping through the night since he was 2 days old. All that is going to make me do is want to smack you - HARD.

While I could go on and on, I will tell new mothers that the time goes by too fast. Even though you feel like you will never sleep again and you cry each and every time your baby cries out of sheer exhaustion - it will get better. Eventually.

What was the most useless piece of parenting advice you received either while pregnant or not?

Submitted as part of Mama Kat's writing workshop.

23 weeks

2011-09-14T12:24:00.001+02:00

Another week already? I've been getting more and more uncomfortable this week so I definitely think this baby is growing. I'm still wearing normal clothes, but people have finally started to ask when I'm due - so I consider that a small victory. I much rather look pregnant than look like a fat cow, so I'll take what I can get.

I also think that we might have chosen a name for baby boy! We'll be sure to share when it becomes official. We are taking the name for a test run to see if we like it, but it does feel good to have a name to associate with the belly movements.

Nathan has started talking to my belly, although I think he has no clue what he is doing. He sees his daddy talking to the belly and he doesn't want to miss out. I think he will be in for a shock when his baby brother finally makes an appearance.

Even though we spent all weekend going out and doing things. I only got one picture, and it was when I was off to work - sad isn't it?

Here I am at 23 weeks. I like to think that I look pregnant. What do you think?

Shirt: H&M, Skirt: made by moi

And just for fun...here is a picture of me with Nathan at 23 weeks....