Living In My Integrity

hanging out

2011-12-23T23:09:00.000-08:00

Who knew your heart could love so deeply & purely.

Happy Holidays

2011-12-13T15:42:00.000-08:00

Happy holidays!

two months in pictures

2011-11-17T21:41:00.000-08:00

found this in my archives from a while ago ...

seriously ... i have no idea how you mamas find time to blog.

i am totally in love and having a blast being a mama, but it's way hard to find time to sit down, compose my thoughts and write a blog post.

here are a few cell phone pictures from the last two months.

pax will be 2 months old on november 26th.

has it really been that long?

totally milk drunk ...

hanging out with my grandma ...

looking very handsome and ready for auntie jordan's birthday party ...

napping on mama's lap ...

taking a little snooze ...

first bath & pumpkin patch

2011-10-24T15:01:00.000-07:00

Things are settling down here ... just in time for Jay to go back to work and chaos for me to start.

After a few weeks of many sleepless nights driving around town trying to soothe Paxton and lull him to sleep, we've discovered that little man has acid reflux. Since being on Zantac (yes, I HATE giving my newborn baby medicine) he's back to his happy self.

A few updated pictures.

Paxton's first bath in the kitchen sink ...

Since this pictures were taken, we've bathed him in his little tub and he LOVES it so much!

We went to the pumpkin patch yesterday with our little pumpkin and some family members.

Here are a couple pictures of my new family.

I am so blessed.

newborn pictures

2011-10-06T20:47:00.000-07:00

Looky, looky who got their pictures taken today.

Too cute!

{in my humble opinion}

Thank you Rustic Star Photography!

He's HERE!

2011-10-05T14:58:00.001-07:00

Look who made his arrival!

Paxton James Stookey

September 26, 2011

10:00 pm

8 lbs, 4 oz

19-1/2 inches

We are totally in love.

More to come in the days ahead!

39 weeks, 5 days

2011-09-23T17:34:00.000-07:00

But who's counting?

Cleary, I am ready.

Are YOU Paxton?

countdown :: 9

2011-09-14T09:27:00.000-07:00

We're down to single-digit status in our countdown!

9 more days to go until Paxton's due date.

Could I be more excited?!?

Nope!

We are so excited to meet this bundle of joy that we've waited so many years for.

I can't think about it too much - I don't need to be pushed over the edge to cry right now - I'm emotional enough - so we'll just leave it at that.

We're excited to meet you little man!

At last night's appointment I was a fingertip dilated and 30% effaced.

Not much - but I'll take it!

xoxoox

38 weeks // bump shot

2011-09-11T10:19:00.000-07:00

Everything is big now.

We're ready for you Pax.

Anytime little man!

Mommy & Daddy can't wait to meet you.
The jury is still out on how Cooper feels about it.

38 weeks

2011-09-09T11:20:00.001-07:00

How about a bit of an update?

The last couple weeks have been cRaZy!

Last Monday, I woke up with a weird-feeling tongue. It felt burnt, but I couldn't recall burning it on anything.

On Monday night, I noticed my taste was a bit off - things didn't taste as flavorful as usual.

On Tuesday morning, I went to check my teeth {for food} in the mirror after breakfast and I couldn't open my lower lip all the way - I couldn't see the bottom row of my teeth on the right side.

By lunchtime, I was unable to swish with water with out water coming out and I also drooled food out the right side of my mouth.

Scary stuff.

Jay called my OB and they had him drive me to the emergency room right away.

Long story short - they ruled out a blood clot and/or stroke, and I've been diagnosed with Bell's palsy.

If you haven't heard of it - you can look it up - I'm not going to provide a link and I refuse to look it up because I feel like it will just scare me.

The beginning of this week was spent in foll0w-up appointments.

I saw a wonderful neurologist who said I basically have a 95% of making a full recovery within the next few weeks.

He was impressed with how fast we got medical attention {thanks Jay!} and said my case isn't bad at all.

Basically it affected the right side of my face.

My smile is off and my right eye doesn't always blink with my left one ... oh ... and I get to tape my eye shut while I sleep with scotch tape.

Jealous much!?!

Jeez - the things mother's do for their children during pregnancy!

I never got to start school with my kiddos and I miss them a ton.

I've been put on medical leave for work and honestly I can't imagine working anyway - especially since the vision in my right eye has been affected (but getting better every day!).

We are on the countdown to meeting Pax ... 14 days until our due date.

I can't wait to meet him!

Is it bad I'm too lazy to go back and proof-read this for errors?

I'm hitting publish.

:)

:: love ::

2011-08-23T18:06:00.000-07:00

Little man's side profile.

Love.

35 weeks

2011-08-23T12:46:00.001-07:00

Holy cow ... where have the weeks gone?

Is there an award for the worst blogger?

The least-updated blog?

I'd self-appoint the award to me.

Time seems to fly by and then I realize I haven't blogged in a really long time.

Here's Pax & I at 35 weeks.

We've had a busy few weeks.

Summer is winding down and we're making the most out of our last few days.

I'm not gonna lie - my 3rd trimester has been so easy without working.

I am REALLY worried about next week.

I start back full-time and I'm already so tired and uncomfortable.

This should be interesting.

Little man is measuring 39 weeks as of our last appointment.

We had an unexpected ultrasound and it was so nice to see his cute little face.

This guy has some CHUBBY cheeks!

Happy School Schedule everyone!

32 weeks!

2011-07-31T22:20:00.000-07:00

Another great week with Paxton.

He's moving around a ton and I'm loving every second!

Love you little man!

xoxo

31 weeks

2011-07-22T12:07:00.000-07:00

Happy 31 weeks big boy.

Aunt Patty is throwing us a baby shower tomorrow, and I'm beside myself with excitement.

We came home from Lake Chelan last night, and the first thing I did was sit in your room for a while. I looked in your crib, smelled your clothes in your closet, and read you a few board books.

I can't wait to meet you.

I love you very much Paxton!

30 weeks

2011-07-21T23:10:00.001-07:00

We just spent a week in Lake Chelan with my parents.

It was so nice and relaxing and the weather was decent.

I'm choosing to NOT complain about the weather this summer, because the cooler weather keeps me less swollen!

Here's Paxton and I at 30 weeks - in all our glory (read: bathing suit attire).

29 weeks

2011-07-09T06:01:00.000-07:00

Happy 29 weeks Paxton!

where have i been?

2011-07-08T12:21:00.000-07:00

Wow, time flies when your head is spinning off your body.

June was absolutely cRaZy.

Being a teacher automatically enters you into CRAZY ZONE in the month of June.

Between end-of-year functions, assessments, grades, and report cards ... the Mr. and I also coached our school's Track & Field team AND organized Field Day for our school.

Needless to say - I've been exhausted.

Summer is treating us good.

I had my 29 week check-up today along with my glucose test.

My blood pressure & weight gain was perfect.

Paxton is measuring 3 weeks big but our doctor seems fine with it - just something to keep an eye on.

I continue to feel so grateful for every day I have with my sweet baby boy in my body.

I love feeling him move around and kick me - I'll never get tired of that.

We just returned from a week with the Mr's family in Eastern Washington.

Remember this trip 3 years ago?

Thank goodness this year wasn't as eventful.

We had so much fun - it's always so nice to relax and spend time with his family.

But I'll tell ya what - this pregnant lady is NOT fit for hot Eastern Washington weather.

I will be the first to admit that I am 100% wussy when it comes to heat.

We're back home now and relaxing before our next trip with my family.

Happy Summer everyone!

22 weeks

2011-05-20T07:55:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks have flown by.

Jay & I started coaching our school's Track & Field team
{you can imagine my running shape these days!}
and it's been so much fun.

I celebrated my 35th birthday last week with my family.

I've never been more happy.

Life is great.

And after two difficult years,
I'm cherishing every day.

Here I am at 22 weeks ...

Announcing ...

2011-05-06T16:28:00.000-07:00

Life has gone by in the whirl the last month.

Baby is doing awesome and I've finally emerged from a 2-week stint of being EXHAUSTED 24/7.

Jay and I are THRILLED to announce that we're 20 weeks along today, and ...

IT'S A BOY!!!!!!!

I no longer have to obsess about the fact that the gray walls we painted
in the nursery have blue undertones.

Yeah!

We're so exited to meet you
Paxton James!

18.5 weeks

2011-04-27T08:04:00.000-07:00

I've trained the Mr. too well to always get my best angle.

My belly bump shots make me look SO SKINNY.

I took one on my own yesterday after work.

Here's a more realistic point of view.

The angle is a bit weird because I took it myself while trying to lift up my cardigan.

18 weeks

2011-04-25T21:28:00.000-07:00

18 weeks.

17 weeks

2011-04-25T21:03:00.001-07:00

17 week bump shot.

Update // I'm Alive

2011-04-25T20:38:00.000-07:00

I'm officially the world's worst blogger this month.

I started slacking in my posts because I was so annoyed with my cell phone.

I've been sending my daily pictures from my cell phone - but now it doesn't work for some reason - and I'm not techy enough to figure it out - or energetic enough to stay awake long enough.

Let's be honest.

The majority of hours that compromise the month of April, have been used up in REM sleeping.

I am so tired.

Like, understatement of the day tired.

I refuse to complain {to anyone other than Jay & Jordan - luckies!} because I know I have a loooong road ahead of me.

But today I think I've figured it out.

I think I need to eat more protein.

So anyway, the pregnancy is going GREAT.

I'm 18 weeks now and happy as a clam.

Also, sUpEr grateful for every day.

If I think about it too long, I'll cry.

I seem to be feeling quite sensitive to girlfriends who have been down the same road as me.

There is nothing more annoying than reading a blog FULL of baby news and pregnancy updates, when you're hurting in that area.

Because of that - I tend to shy away from blogging lately.

Having a difficult time finding some balance in that area I suppose.

I'll give you some quick updates:

Jay painted the baby's room a couple weeks ago - an adorable grey
We purchased our crib and changing table and set them up in the nursery (picture below)
We started some basic registries
We had a GREAT 17 week prenatal exam
Easter was nice and relaxing at mom and dad's house
We're missing our Spokane family and wish every day they were closer to share in all this baby excitement
My students are BEYOND cute about my pregnancy. They talk to my belly and say sweet things like, "Hi baby P! I hope you're happy in there!"
We have an ultrasound appointment for May 13th to find out what we're having
We've agreed on baby names. Girl: Piper. Boy: Paxton. Feel free to NOT leave your opinion if it's negative ... these ARE the names we will be using.

Enjoy the picture of the changing table.

I've sent over 15 photos to my email via my phone the last few weeks, and this is the ONLY one that I received.

If they ever show up ... I'll post them.

I've been so busy with working, sleeping and creating a baby from scratch ... I've been a terrible blog reader also.

Hope you're all doing great!

Is it bad that I'm too tired to proof-read this post?!?

april 9th

2011-04-09T20:39:00.000-07:00

I have been LOVING green beans and pearl onions lately.

We went over to my mom's house for dinner tonight
and looky what she made!

And guess who got to go home with leftovers?

YUMM-O!

april 8th

2011-04-08T20:41:00.000-07:00

Happy 16 weeks Baby P!

Not only was today beautiful ...
but we did a ton of fun stuff.

Lunch with my family & grandma at Spud's on Alki.

Took a scenic drive around Alki and looked at beautiful houses.

Soaked up the sun.

Visited Jay's brother Casey and wife Susie while they worked in the yard
(I'm a really good over-see-er of yard work).

Took a nap.
(Lisa)

Did yard work.
(Jay)

Played with neighbors outside in the sun.

Went out to dinner for yummy burgers.

Had dessert at TCBY with my parents.

And guess what?

No one took a picture.

Of anything.

All day.

Guess it was just one of those days when you're too busy having fun!

april 7th

2011-04-07T20:48:00.000-07:00

Jay, my mom and I went to University Village today and went baby shopping.

We purchased our adorable crib and changing table.
(yeah!).

We also went to lunch and Gap Maternity.

I'm officially too big for pre-pregnancy pants.

While trying clothes on, I also wore their "bump."

A great way to see how clothes will fit when you're about to pop.

It was fun to see what I'll look like.
(See photo above)

What a fun day full of making memories!

april 6th

2011-04-06T20:57:00.000-07:00

Jay came home from Spokane last night so we Jay cleaned out one of our guest rooms and made room for the nursery.

Here is the one and only piece of furniture in the room right now.

Holding some baby clothes that Jay couldn't resist buying,
along with a glassy baby,
a sweet blanket that Amy bought us,
and a picture of Baby P's cousin, Tatum.

LOVE!

april 5th

2011-04-05T21:03:00.000-07:00

Day ~~one million~~ #5 of feeling terrible.

So here's yet another picture of Cooper on the bed, sleeping.

These pictures of the day could NOT get more boring.

Sorry.

april 4th

2011-04-04T21:06:00.000-07:00

I woke up today and my stomach was LIKE THIS!

Hello baby bump popping out!

Wowza.

I'm LOVING every second of this amazing gift.

Thank you God!

april 3rd

2011-04-03T21:09:00.000-07:00

I stayed in bed all day again today trying to get over this sinus infection.

Without meds.

NOT fun.

I should really take a picture of how many Target bags I've filled with used Kleenexes.

But that would be really gross.

And I'm sure the visual you have in your head right now is enough.

distractions

2011-04-02T21:34:00.000-07:00

Create your own video slideshow at animoto.com.

This is what you do when you're distracting yourself from nausea ...

You make videos.

april 2nd

2011-04-02T20:35:00.001-07:00

Clothes are definitively feeling tight!

april 1st

2011-04-01T21:12:00.000-07:00

I'm basically swallowing razor blades today.

My throat COULD NOT hurt more.

So today is a stay-in-bed kind of day.

A cuddle-with-your-dog kind of day.

A wish-I-could-take-meds kind of day.

A grateful-to-have-the-day-off kind of day.

new year's resolution :: failure

2011-04-01T09:14:00.000-07:00

I've officially failed at my New Year's Resolution.

I took not ONE picture this last week.

At first I felt really guilty about it ...

Then I started getting so behind on picture-taking, that I just gave up.

Maybe next week will be better.

For now - I'm OK with breaking up with my resolution until something picture-worthy happens.

We're on Spring Break now ...

So you'll most likely see pictures of the day that consist of catching up on sleep and my DVR.

EXCITING!

mar 27th

2011-03-27T18:14:00.000-07:00

14 weeks.

Looks much like 13 weeks.

:)

mar 26th

2011-03-26T22:09:00.000-07:00

What a fun day ...

Started with pedicures with Jordan.

Then a baby shower for Kinsey.

Then rounded out the evening with a 60th birthday celebration for my dad.

We gorged on food at Ivar's.

SO DELISH!

I'm slowly starting to enjoy food again.

It was nice to enjoy time with the family.

Happy Birthday Dad,
you're my hero.

Aren't my mom and dad adorable?!?

xoxo

mar 24th

2011-03-24T20:05:00.000-07:00

Heaven has arrived in Woodinville.

Thank you TCBY,
for making all my dreams come true.

Honestly, if you haven't been there - GO!

mar 23rd

2011-03-23T20:03:00.000-07:00

Spring is in the air!

This is my favorite tree.

It grows right outside my front door.

Soon its yellow flowers will fall off producing lush green leaves.

This is why I bought the tree.

Yellow always makes me happy.

BMI

2011-03-23T07:46:00.000-07:00

I just calculated my BMI.

I'm in the obese category.

I used my pre-pregnancy weight.
{and I might have given myself 1/2 an inch}

I'm going to go ahead and sit with that for a while.

mar 22nd

2011-03-22T21:13:00.000-07:00

Marc & Sarah gave us this little ... er ... thing
{not sure what to call it}.

It's the replica of a 12 week baby in the womb.

This thing is super creepy to look at.

When Jay brought it home, I couldn't stop inspecting it.

You know - with all things that creep you out.

It's worthy of being the Picture of the Day.

mar 21st

2011-03-21T21:56:00.000-07:00

I could eat sushi every day and never get sick of it.

It's the main thing I've missed during my pregnancy.

Last night we went to Sushi Zen {our favorite!}
and ordered some yummy rolls.

I ordered a Kimiko Roll
{named after one of the restaurant's owners}.

It has yummy tempura shrimp in it
{among other ingredients}
and NO tobiko
{anything raw is a no-no while pregnant!}

I also ordered a vegetable roll w/added cream cheese.

DELISH!

Jay's rolls are in the background of the picture.

He ordered a White Christmas Roll
and a Salmon Lemon Roll.

I ate my rolls while drooling over his.

YUMMY!

mar 20th

2011-03-20T15:10:00.001-07:00

First belly bump shot at 13 weeks.

And I BIG "I told you so" win to my mom who's always said pockets on the back of jeans does nothing for anyone's butt.

mar 19th

2011-03-19T21:08:00.000-07:00

We celebrated my brother's birthday last night at my parents house.

Dinner was fit for a king.

Dessert was amazing.

Always great to spend time with my family.

hApPy bIrThDaY to my younger, handsome brother.

I love you very much!

march 18th

2011-03-18T08:12:00.000-07:00

Making his or her blog debut ...

Introducing our sweet little bean!

That side profile melts this mama's heart.

We've waiting so long for this.

I succumb to tears every time I think of the love & joy we have ahead of ourselves.

And the beginning of a life-long dream for both of us ...

Finally coming true!

mar 17th

2011-03-17T08:10:00.000-07:00

SPRING is coming!

SPRING is coming!

Three cheers to the end of dark, blustery nights.

And HELLO to the beginning of
evening walks,
beautiful sunsets,
birds chirping,
garden-planning,
flowers blooming,
kids playing outside,
seeing hibernating neighbors again!

YEAH!

mar 16th

2011-03-16T19:06:00.000-07:00

Every year, a handful of the boys in my class are on the same baseball team.

Every year, I try to make it to a couple practices
and a Saturday morning game.

So Jay and I stopped by practice today.

Jay was in heaven helping with 1st base coaching and playing catch.

The smiles on the boy's faces were priceless.

I love my job.

mar 15th

2011-03-15T21:01:00.000-07:00

I spy with my little eye ...

I heart-shaped rock.

Love.

Found this while dropping Cooper off at doggy daycare.

mar 14th

2011-03-14T19:39:00.000-07:00

I'm a day late ...

But yesterday was Cooper's 8th birthday.

Here he is, doing what he loves.

Laying on his bed by the fire, surrounded by all his babies.

hApPy bIrThDaY buddy.

I love you very much.

mar 13th

2011-03-13T21:19:00.000-07:00

Daylight Savings ... my favorite time of year!

Here we are, driving home from Spokane.

It's 6:45 pm and it's gloriously still light out!

Sun-lit days ... here we come!

mar 12th

2011-03-12T07:54:00.000-08:00

This picture is for my students.

We talked about rainbows, weather, and wind energy this week in school.

I promised them that I'd take a picture of the wind mills in Eastern Washington this weekend.

Here you are kiddos!

mar 11th

2011-03-11T22:46:00.000-08:00

Unisom.

Enough said.

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mar 10th

2011-03-10T08:24:00.001-08:00

I was so bored in the middle of the night, I thought I'd take a picture for you all to enjoy.

Up since 2:00 am.

Today's going to be Rad!

I can already tell!

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mar 9th

2011-03-09T20:26:00.001-08:00

I tried to leave the room tonight.

Look who promptly woke up to check out the shenanigans.

My bodyguard.

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mar 8th

2011-03-08T08:25:00.000-08:00

One of our fabulous co-workers made this for our sweet baby.

How cute is this?!?

Does a baby's head really start that small?

So hard to imagine.

Can't WAIT to see it!

Thank you Tina!

mar 7th

2011-03-07T08:23:00.000-08:00

I stayed home from work today.

Wasn't sure if I had a bad case of morning sickness,
or the flu.

But there was a lot of vomiting, and a lot of sleeping.

See who my constant companion is?

I wouldn't have it any other way.

Thanks for making sure mama is feeling okay, buddy.

anger management {i need some}

2011-03-07T07:21:00.002-08:00

for the record ...

i'm about to throw my cell phone off the 520 bridge.

i've been taking pictures for each day - and my flippin' phone won't post them.

UGH!

mar 6th

2011-03-06T07:25:00.000-08:00

Will anyone besides me confess to reading the column "What's In My Bag" in US Weekly?

It's basically this LIE of a column where famous women say what they keep in their purse.

Well, yesterday while I was looking for my favorite pen, I ended up emptying my entire purse and thought this was just too ~~embarrassing~~ good to keep to myself.

two forks
a spoon
my inhaler chamber
2 used Kleenex's
a bag of crushed oyster crackers
wallet
leave-in conditioner
nature valley granola bar
proof of insurance
sunglasses
one glove
my mouth guard
a bag of trail mix
a lollipop
my bag of lip gloss
a $20 AMC gift card
a shower cap
my lung capacity tester
two rotten satsuma oranges

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mar 5th

2011-03-05T07:18:00.000-08:00

We received our first baby present.

Thanks Jordan for the adorable overalls!

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mar 4th

2011-03-04T20:29:00.000-08:00

This afternoon, Ben Davis asked his readers to post a picture of their most prized possession.

I think the theory of a prized possession is something that you've won or earned (yes? no?), but I'm going with my most meaningful possession.

I was given this statue of Mary when I was a very little girl.

Its always stood proudly on my dresser.

Through school, college, even when I lived on my own ... it's always been on my dresser.

Now that I'm grown up, I don't have a dresser - I've graduated to a built-in closet.

But I keep this statue on the dresser in our guest room - and I just love it.

mar 3rd

2011-03-03T20:42:00.000-08:00

I couldn't do just one picture for today.

This series of pictures continues the saga of Cooper's cling-on status.

Here I am, laying on the couch trying to watch TV.

As you can see, not only is Cooper all up in my grill,
but he's blocking my view AND whining.

Thanks little man, for making sure I'm okay.

mar 2nd

2011-03-02T21:37:00.000-08:00

Today was Dr. Seuss' birthday.

We read fun books and even had a visit from some high school students who led us in fun activities.

Jay's cousin made this adorable poster for my classroom.

It proudly hangs on my entryway bulletin board for everyone to see when they walk past my room.

Thanks Ashley - I LOVE it (and so do the kids)!

hApPy bIrThDay Dr. Seuss!

mar 1

2011-03-01T17:33:00.000-08:00

This is me, being sad.

I was supposed to meet up with the inspirational Jody tonight for dinner.

But my ~~all day~~ morning sickness got the best of me today.

Instead of having a good meal with great conversation,
I'll be at home in bed.

LAME!

Sorry Jods - soon, very soon friend.

the return

2011-03-01T08:08:00.000-08:00

It's the return of the 100th day of school!

We did many fun activities, some math and a writing prompt, all revolving around 100.

I love to ask the kids what they would buy if they had $100.

Here are some of my favorite responses:

a puppy
groceries
a Lego set, a robot, a remote control car, AND a dog
nothing
a puppy, goldfish, cat, bird, mice, a snake, rat and a guinea pig (starting a zoo I guess)
(This girl really knows how to stretch her dollar) ... a puppy, jewelry, raspberries, blueberries, blackberries, a universe (?), frosting, seeds, flowers, dresses, castles, globes, dolls, bows, fruit, lettuce, the hardest homework ever, AND a baby.
Lego's, more Lego's, more Lego's, more Lego's, and more Lego's
gum (love the practicality of this choice)
100 Hot Wheels I love Hot Wheels
a car because I want to drive and it looks like fun and I want to try it.
toy bat, toy cat, toy dog, toy mom, toy dad. (HUH?!?)
the Death Star

feb 28th

2011-02-28T20:38:00.001-08:00

If you enjoy your personal space, you don't want to be me right now.

Cooper has been stage 10 kling-on the last few weeks.

I don't really know what that means, but you get the point.

He does NOT EVER LEAVE ME ALONE.

Like, ever.

Here he is on the couch while we watch TV.

You can see that Cooper is staring at me.

He stared at me for an entire show

Is this normal?

Do you think he knows I'm pregnant?

I love my sweet Coop-A-Lou … but I draw the line with him going into the bathroom with me.

He would if I let him!

Love you little man.

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feb 27th

2011-02-27T15:10:00.001-08:00

Please help stop an epic marriage argument.

What are those banner things called?

We staunchly disagree.

P.S. You have no idea how creepy I felt taking a picture of my neighbor's house.

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feb 26th

2011-02-26T20:02:00.001-08:00

I didn't feel very good today, so I did nothing.

I watched 3 movies and rested.

Cooper however, found my class stuffed animal and had a grand ol' time.

I'll have to steal it away from him tomorrow for a Downy bath before going back to school tomorrow.

Jay made tater tot casserole for dinner tonight and it was amazing.

A perfect snowy day for comfort food!

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{peanut}

2011-02-26T09:06:00.000-08:00

Today is my due date with my sweet 2nd baby, Peanut.

Rest in peace my sweet baby girl.

I'm thinking of you today with a thoughtful heart
while you laugh and play with your brother in heaven.

You brought us a lot of joy in your short-lived life.

I loved you fiercely.

And still do.

Mommy loves you.

feb 25th

2011-02-25T20:32:00.001-08:00

Jay and I went out for a celebration dinner tonight.

We found out we were pregnant for the 3rd time in the middle of January.

Because of my history of miscarriages, our doctor has been monitoring me closely.

We had a fabulous ultrasound at 6.5 weeks, another at 7.5 weeks, and yet another at 9 weeks.

Today, we went in for a 10 week heartbeat check.

There really is no sound like hearing your own child's heartbeat inside of you.

I continue to be cautiously optimistic and thank GOD for the miracle inside of me.

Every day is filled with more hope and trust in this process.

I honestly cannot remember ever feeling so grateful.

God is good.

P.S. Don't worry, I didn't eat any raw sushi!

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feb 24th

2011-02-24T20:20:00.001-08:00

Besides baking some banana bread ridiculously early this morning …

I did nothing all day.

Nothing.

I watched TV then napped from 1-4.

And that my friends, is what mid-winter break is all about.

Here's a picture of my home base, with my constant companion always by my side.

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feb 23rd

2011-02-23T20:04:00.001-08:00

We woke up to another blanket of snow.

Today's weather was crazy.

We woke up to snow, it warmed up and melted, then snowed again.

It's the evening, and we're on the couch while it continues to snow.

We love it and so does Cooper. He loved his walk today.

Keep snowing Mother Nature!

This picture was taken from our bedroom window when I woke up.

Try not to be too jealous of our breathtaking view of power lines and the retention pond.

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feb 22nd

2011-02-22T23:26:00.001-08:00

I actually tried to upload a video of Cooper and the snow, but it wouldn't work.

So instead, you get this still shot of the snow coming down early this morning.

Do you ever notice how people always complain no matter what the weather is?

Too cold. Too rainy. Too hot. Where's the sun? I need an air conditioner. I'm freezing.

All the complaining.

It's crazy.

I'm really enjoying this snow.

Like a white blanket of peace.

I'll take whatever comes.

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feb 21st

2011-02-21T20:51:00.001-08:00

The best part about watching The Bachelor tonight was watching Cooper watch The Bachelor.

Do you see the intensity in his eyes?

He really likes the ladies.

Silly boy.

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feb 20th

2011-02-20T17:32:00.001-08:00

Somebody loves Yo Gabba Gabba.

It's basically like crack for kids.

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feb 19th

2011-02-19T18:53:00.001-08:00

Somebody's God Daughter is in town.

We're in heaven.

We love her so much and miss her every day.

Looking forward to a long weekend of snuggling and loving on her.

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feb 18th

2011-02-18T20:52:00.001-08:00

We had a celebration dinner tonight at the Olive Garden.

This picture is for Kinsey … my breadstick loving friend.

Happy weekend friends!

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feb 17th

2011-02-17T16:12:00.001-08:00

Today was the 100th day of school … and it's a HUGE deal in 1st grade.

We made a 100's day museum, did a 100's day writing prompt and even had contests to see who could do the most jumping jacks in 100 seconds.

Big stuff people, big stuff.

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feb 16th

2011-02-16T07:44:00.000-08:00

While I was eating breakfast downstairs this morning,
I wondered where Cooper was.

He's usually right by my side ~~begging for food~~ loving on his mommy.

When I went upstairs to brush my teeth ...

guess who was waiting for me at the top of the stairs?

Seriously, have you ever seen a cuter face?

feb 15th

2011-02-15T20:41:00.000-08:00

My husband loves me.

How do I know?

Because he stopped to fill my tires with air,
even though we were in a torrential downpour.

Thank you!

Do you see Italianissimo in the background?

DELISH!

feb 14th

2011-02-14T17:38:00.001-08:00

Guess where I had to go today?

I went with all the other slackers of the world to purchase a Valentine's card.

My bad.

Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

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love & giggles

2011-02-14T16:34:00.000-08:00

The kids filled my heart with warmth, love and giggles today ...

Student: Mrs. Stookey, will you be here on your birthday?
Me: I'm pretty sure I will be. Why?
Student: Because I was thinking it might be nice for you to go on a vacation for your birthday.
Me: Well what a sweet thought.
Student: Like me. I went to Hawaii for my birthday.
Me: Well ... where do you think I should go?
Student: Somewhere hot. Like I like Hawaii because I like to swim in the pool.
Me: What do you think I would like?
Student: I think you would like a hot state.
Me: Can you give me some examples of hot states?
Student: Well there's NEW Mexico, and PLAIN Mexico ... Hawaii that I already told you about. OH, I know ... you could also go to Florida!
Me: I LOVE Florida ... that's a GREAT idea.
Student: And you could visit my Grandma.
Me: What an excellent idea.
Student: You could look for her house, knock on her door, and she's say, "well what's your name?" and then she'd invite you in. She likes to invite people in.
Me: It all sounds lovely. Anything else?
Student: I think that's all about the states that are hot.

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

Student A: Is that a picture of your boat?
Student B: Yes.
Student A: You have YOUR OWN boat?
Student B: Yes.
Student A: You have enough money for a boat?
Student B: I guess.
Student A: Well, how much monies does it cost?

Happy Valentine's Day friends!

feb 13th

2011-02-13T23:15:00.001-08:00

Clothes hanging in doorways.

Otherwise known as LAUNDRY DAY in our house.

Hope you all had a great weekend.

Our Sunday consisted of naps, grocery shopping, The Grammys, and laundry.

Here's to one more week of work until Mid-Winter Break!

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feb 12th

2011-02-12T12:20:00.001-08:00

We went to one of our favorite weekend lunch spots today.

Maggie Bluffs has wonderful food and gorgeous views.

As always … we ate way too much & had a blast.

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feb 11th

2011-02-11T22:41:00.001-08:00

I spy with my little eye …

My first hint of Spring.

Beautiful.

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feb 10th

2011-02-10T21:44:00.000-08:00

I had to make a trip to Bellevue yesterday, and
it seems the entire city is STILL under construction.

Hasn't it been like 10 years now?!?

At any rate - I had to take a picture of these two.

This picture basically sums up how your tax dollars are being spent.

They're both smoking cigarettes while standing around.

Doing nothing.

Actually, the man on the left is technically multitasking.

He's smoking a cigarette AND checking out a hole in the ground.

And because Jay is paranoid that I'm going to get sued for posting this picture,
here is my disclaimer ...

There is a chance they could be on break ... and I blurred out the faces.

feb 9th

2011-02-09T19:27:00.001-08:00

We had dinner tonight with the majority of our school staff at Mi Tierra.

Fun times and good stories shared.

It's always so nice to spend time with coworkers outside of the work environment.

I really, really miss the days when Mi Tierra was Las Margaritas.

And for all my family members … yes … I ordered Plato Chico.

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feb 8th

2011-02-09T07:34:00.000-08:00

I tried to upload this picture last night AND this morning
but for some reason my phone hates me.

So here is a picture of last night's dinner.

Taco Tuesday in our house.

And yes ... that's a HUGE ball of sour cream (it's "light" though). ;)

And yes ... that's Rice-A-Roni.

Don't judge me.

I love that stuff.

And everything tastes better on my sweet bird plates.

jaded

2011-02-08T08:17:00.000-08:00

On our way to work today, we drove through our favorite coffee stand (Mercurys coffee).

When we arrived, the barista was talking to another costumer about babies.

The barista tried to engage us in the conversation - which was very sweet of her.

I said some pleasantries, smiled, and continued to listen.

As the barista went on and on about having babies and being pregnant, I seemed to enter a time warp.

Time slowed down and I soaked in everything she was saying.

The barista was a young woman, newly married with no kids.

I was ruptured by the sparkle in her eye ... the excitement about pregnancy, and magic of it all.

But I was also struck by something else.

She has no idea.

How painful, life-altering, heartbreaking, patience-testing, and faith-questioning pregnancy can be.

She doesn't know the hurt.

The years that go by.

Wishing.

Wanting.

As I listened to her, I soaked in every smile, every glimmer in her eye, the way her cheeks creased as she talked, and daydreamed out loud of her future.

And I quietly mourned that fact that all of these things have been taken from me.

My excitement has been replaced with fear.

Hope replaced with hurt.

Time replaced by sadness.

I've become jaded by my experiences.

And I think that's okay.

I'm not saying that I'm hopeless about the future.

I just wish I had that child-like innocence I had the first time I was pregnant.

You just honestly think nothing can go wrong.

I feel wiser because of my experiences ... but there was a brief moment this morning that I really wanted to be "that other girl."

The girl in the coffee shop who daydreams about the ease and beauty of pregnancy.

I'm hoping to get there someday.

feb 7th

2011-02-07T08:41:00.001-08:00

Good morning from Chelan.

Last day here.

Would like to stay forever.

But I just don't have that many personal days from work.

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feb 6th

2011-02-06T22:38:00.001-08:00

My beautiful mom.

I had so much fun with you this weekend.

Thank you for everything.

Happy birthday weekend.

I love you times infinity.

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feb 5th

2011-02-05T14:41:00.001-08:00

My view from the couch today.

In paradise spending time with my family for my mom's birthday.

Happy birthday (yesterday) mom.

We love you very much!

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feb 4th

2011-02-04T18:50:00.001-08:00

Classic case of "When Good Times Go Bad."

Here was are … driving through Leavenworth, looking at the Christmas lights (do they keep those up all year?), eating a McDonald's ice cream cone & fries, and coincidentally listening to Christmas music (we forgot other CD 's) … when BAM!

We got pulled over by a cop for speeding.

I won't say who was driving, because that would be rude, but I'm typing this blog post so …

Happy Friday everyone!

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feb 3rd

2011-02-03T20:12:00.001-08:00

Sorry for yet another picture of Cooper, but I wasn't fast enough with my camera when a Metro bus fully wrapped in Husky decals drove by me.

It truly was a beautiful sight.

This conversation may have ensued.

Me: Saweet frigging bus!
Jay: Oh jeez. How stupid. Wait a minute … that isn't even FAIR!
ME: Don't be a poor sport.
Jay: Where is the cougar bus?
Me: I don't know … in hell!?!

We're so mature. Yes?

Anyway … another cute picture of the man in the fur coat.

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feb 2nd

2011-02-02T21:38:00.001-08:00

I took a nap after school today, and this is how I woke up.

With my personal space cut off at my kneecap.

And you know what?

I wouldn't have it any other way.

P.S. Please disregard Jay's ugly WSU blanket on his side of the bed.

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What's YOUR Number?

2011-02-01T16:45:00.000-08:00

One of my students had been going to the bathroom quite a lot.

I was starting to get worried - he'd been having stomach aches, had been missing some school, and I wanted to make sure he was feeling okay.

Student: Mrs. Stookey, can I go to the bathroom?
Me: Come here for a minute ... (student walks up to my desk) ... you've been going to the bathroom A LOT today ... you just went 30 minutes ago. Are you feeling okay?
Student (holding his stomach): Yes, I'm okay.
Me: Have you been going #1 or #2?
Student: What do you mean?
Me: When you go potty, are you going #1 or #2?
Student (LONG pause to think): Um ... I think I've been doing #3.

So cute ... he had NO IDEA what #1 and #2 were!

feb 1st

2011-02-01T08:07:00.001-08:00

Ever since our two miscarriages, I've had a love affair with birds.

Sometimes I like to think they are my angel babies, fluttering by to say hello to their mama.

So you can imagine how I felt when I pulled out February's calendar.

I was dropped to my knees and reduced to tears this morning.

Our 2nd angel baby would have been due this month.

Days and months pass, but the pain comes back in very large, very real waves.

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jan 30th

2011-01-31T16:02:00.001-08:00

We had a non-student work day today.

The first part of our morning was spent exploring a new mission statement for our school.

We started by circling all the attributes from the list that were important to us.

Then we narrowed them down to a list of eight.

Then five.

Then two.

My top two were INTEGRITY and FAITH.

This was a fun exercise to do alongside Jay.

Our circled attributes were nearly identical.

His top two were INTEGRITY and FAMILY.

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jan 30th

2011-01-30T17:01:00.001-08:00

Jay and I were quadruple-booked last night. We literally had to be four places at once.

We ended up having to divide and conquer.

It was lame not being together, but we both had fun

Jay was awarded Husband of the Year when he brought home Trophy Cupcakes.

My favorite.

Two red velvet, two mint chocolates, one vanilla with chocolate mousse frosting, and one chocolate with vanilla frosting.

Delish.

Now THAT'S a good Sunday!

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jan 29th

2011-01-29T19:38:00.001-08:00

I spent some time with my parents today.

It's my favorite thing to do.

This picture is on their living room table.

Love them so much.

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jan 28th

2011-01-28T16:47:00.001-08:00

Jay and I ate dinner at 4:15 today.

What could make that sentence better?

We ate CHINESE FOOD at 4:15.

Yep.

We ate dinner with the rest of the senior citizens of the eastside.

Pretty sweet!

Can you see Jay sitting in our booth through the mandatory restaurant fish tank?

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jan 27th

2011-01-27T17:36:00.001-08:00

I fell over myself trying to get a picture of the sunset tonight.

Did you see it?

Truly breathtaking.

Since I couldn't get a good shot with my cell phone … this one will have to do.

It's equally as adorable & sweet as a January sunset.

I was laying on the couch reading this evening and noticed a certain friend decided to share the same pillow.

I held up my camera over my head & snapped this picture.

Good boy Cooper, for looking at the camera.

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