The Remodel Project

So I will have another project to be able to document and track on here.... we have officially decided to start the remodel of the entryway, kitchen and main bath in the house!!! We are so excited and hoping that the project is complete before the baby arrives.  Everyone keep their fingers crossed for us. 

Here are the official BEFORE PICTURES!!!

Entry Way-- Brick Wall & Fireplace will stay-- rest will be replaced.

Dining Area

Kitchen-- Good Bye Blue Cabinets.... Big Changes Coming

Bathroom!!!! yes that is a hole in the wall... hah!

Today we already went and picked out the cabinet/drawer style, color and hardware for the kitchen.  We already figured out the style appliances we would like.  Hoping the entire process continues to move quickly and smoothly.

Wish us luck.

Frankfort Carnival

As a parent I cringe at the thought of a carnival.  Don't get me wrong I LOVE seeing the smiles on the kids face when they are having the time of their lives on a ride- but the lines.... the people.... the germs.... the thought of the rides being put together-- what if they forgot a part?  And now a days you can trust NO ONE-- who knows what kind of people are actually walking around there; which is SCARY!!!!
But we survived and the kids had an AWESOME time.

Charlie got the all you can ride band with Daniel and they were in heaven.  They thought they were so cool and old riding on everything! And to be honest- they looked so old.  We have noticed so many things that Charlie is now doing, wanting to do and saying that are no longer things that a toddler does-- but that a boy does.  Although you know it is coming- kind of hits you hard to see your baby boy growing up.  Enough sappy stuff (see this is what I'm talking about- hormone levels-- ALL TIME HIGH).

Enjoy some pictures of the kids at the carnival.



Emmy watching the boys on some of the rides




DK and Chuck getting ready for the airplanes




I think the smile on her face on this one says it all!!! If you could have seen Charlie's face- he was less impressed




I would say she was tired


P.S. Who is ready for some Illini Football????

THESE TWO!!!!

Enjoy the long weekend!!! :)

Prego Mego--- The BIG 30!!!!!!!

30 WEEKS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!


I over did things this past weekend.  With all the events we had going- Saturday night I was in pain.  I had tons of back pain and when I would "walk" (if you could even consider it walking) the pain would shoot down my legs.  IT HURT!!!!!

I feel like my stomach is growing by the day-- and I also feel like I am carrying him very low- but that could just be me.

Charlie told me this week "I am so excited for the baby to come.  I'm going to help take care of him, like getting his diapers and wipes.  But I will NOT touch his poopy diapers!" Haha... already setting some boundaries. 

I wanted to go out this past Sunday to take some maternity pictures outside- but the weather didn't cooperate.  Maybe over the long weekend I will get a chance.

Doctors appointment was Wednesday.  Everything is right on track.  Measurements are right on track, baby has flipped so he is head down, and the doctor did say it seems to be a big boy! 
He did mention trying out a belly band to see if that helps with any of the cramping and pain.  Anyone else try one??

Recap of week:
Mood Swings/Hormones= increased  (I cried last night at a movie that was not even sad/emotional)
Patience=decreased
Exhaustion=increased
Cramps/Pain=increased
Excitement to meet this little guy= increased

Picture... please dont judge how huge I am.

Another Fun Filled Weekend

Once again the Stevens had a busy weekend. 

Friday night we had friends over for a bon fire.  Their two kids are in Charlie and Emmy's class at school. 

Saturday was the annual Pet Adoption/Awareness Day at Licolnway Community Bank.  The kids loved seeing all the dogs and cats (yes cats.... mom stayed far away from them). 

Then it was off to swimming at the country club.... it was so refreshing since it was so hot!!! (sorry pictures are on my big camera- forgot to download them).

And last we went to the Demolition Derby.  It was the first time for me and the kids! It was AWESOME!!! I do think they would have made it the entire time, but as you can tell we had a busy day already with no naps!!!! I do think it was about 15 minutes after we got to our seats that Emmy asked if we could go home... she was tired.  But she did perk up once the cars started! We will definitely be going again in September.



sorry for the poor quality....



Sunday was our "lazy" day especially since it was raining off and on all day.  I was able to get all of the baby clothes that we have in his drawers- cleaned the changing table off and rearranged a few things.  It felt good to get some stuff done in his room.  And NO {he} does not have a name yet.

Hope you all had a great weekend like we did!

For the Love of Rachel (PLEASE READ AND HELP)

I received an email with this letter attached from my sister.  Rachel is the niece to her neighbor.  As a mother I read this with tears filling my eyes wondering what I would do if it were one of my kids.  I can even begin to imagine what this family is going through.  With that being said-- I want to help!!!!!!!!!!!

They are having a silent auction and I was hoping to donate a photo session along with some other items in a basket.  I know a few of you out there are independent consultants; and others just have a generous heart and may want to donate some gift certificates!!!!!

Let me know if you would like to help out too.  Please read the below letter!!!

  

Dear Business:

Your organization can help make a vital difference in a little girl’s life.  This beautiful little girl is Rachel Swallow. She is very sick.

Rachel started exhibiting common flu-like symptoms on March 20, 2012. However, on March 26^th, Rachel took an entirely unexpected turn for the worse. After going to sleep for the night on March 25^th, Rachel’s mother went to check on her and found Rachel unresponsive.

After undergoing innumerable medical procedures and surgeries, medical attention at four different hospitals, and consultation from distinguished doctors across the country, Rachel was diagnosed with Acute Disseminated Encephalomyelitis (ADEM).  Rachel has inflammatory lesions on her brain which has put her in a coma-like state for 5 months. She relies on a tracheostomy for breathing and a gastrostomy tube for feeding. Her doctors have no explanation why she has developed ADEM.

We are soliciting support from as many people as we can to help Rachel’s family with the financial burden of the hospitalization and assume after care from her illness.

Please reach out and help to support Rachel. We have planned a benefit for her at 115 Bourbon Street in Merrionette Park on November 11, 2012 from 2pm to 7pm.

Please consider donating an auction item(s) for the benefit.  A gift certificate would be greatly appreciated.  Receipts for any donations are available upon request. 

Tax ID#:  45-5327758

If you would like to make a private contribution, please make checks payable to:  For the Love of Rachel Fund.

Any type of donation would be appreciated and, as a token of our thanks, your organization would be recognized at the benefit.  Your generous donation CAN make a difference in Rachel’s life.  You may contact the committee member below:

Caryn Travis          Marisa Barnas         Kate Schwartz-Jakocko         Jennifer Roney

(773) 450-3594        (708) 829- 4420        (773) 315-0098                         (708) 479-7546

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE HELP!!!

You can email me at mjces4@yahoo.com  if you are interested.

Thanks

Growing too Fast....

I don't think Mike and I are ready for the kids getting bigger/older. 
I have looked at a few recent pictures of Emmy; and she no longer looks like a baby anymore.  She is a little girl!! She started her 2nd session of gymnastics and I can already see a difference in the things she can do on her own this time around!




July 2011



Aug 2012



Last night she decided she could jump in the pool on her own. 

Charlie started Pre K!!! I know we still have a full year but I am NOT ready for him to be in Kindergarten.  We have noticed small changes in him as well- the way he is talking, physical changes (although he isnt getting much taller-- poor thing has his momma's height).  Although him and Emmy have their little "fights" he has really been all about being a big brother and protecting his sister.  Last night he gave her 1/2 of his peanut butter sandwich because "thats what big brother's do".



July 2011



July 2012

 I'm not ready for these two to grow up! Although I know I have no say. 

Have a good day.

Prego Mego Week 29

Week 29......

It has been another good week.  I am feeling the restrictions more and more- but they are manageable.  Being at work is becoming more and more challenging. 

I have been back on wanting fries this week; but doing a pretty good job of staying way.  Still loving my cheese dillas! :)

The cooler weather at night has been so nice for sleeping; although I am waking up so much more to have to use the washroom.  Comes with the territory right?

Back to the doctors next week.  I should get my results of my 1 hour glucose test; which I'm not worried about at all.

Still no name for this little one. 

Sorry not much to report.

Belly is huge but no pictures today... maybe I will do one later in the week. 

Have a good day.

p.s. this post pretty much reflects my mood today-- watch out world! :)

Explosive Weekend....

We once again had a very busy weekend:  Here is a recap with some photos
Saturday

• Park, Charlie's favorite thing is now the swings and Emilee loves the bridge so she can just run across it over and over
• Went to a large field to let the kids ride their tractors
• Farm in the Barn in Mokena, Charlie's favorite part was riding a pony and Emmy loved the petting zoo.  Mom's favorite part was getting home and taking a shower to stop the sneezing, itching, crying (watering eyes) and was once again able to breathe! :) The things we do for our kids.
• Ended the night with pizza, bon fire and SMORES.
• IT WAS AWESOME!!!

Fun at the Park

Lu on her tractor with her baby (Frisbee- yes that is what she named her; I guess that is better than hard head like she normally calls her dolls that have hard heads/faces)

Sunday-

We woke up to finding explosive diarrhea from Bella.  It was literally everywhere in the shop- so we had a day of cleaning everything out!

Hope you all had a good weekend!!!



Office Etiquette

Memo

Attention Co-Workers (note: this is no way a direct reflect of my work place......)
1. Although you do not have to clock in and out; normal working hours are 8-5.... not 830 to just after the last person leaves so it looks like you stay here late.  Also does it count as being here at 830, if then you have to get back up, go to the kitchen to get a drink, bathroom, etc?? So turning on your computer closer to 9 is cool too right?

2.  You are coming to WORK... if you don't know what that word means or what it entails; ask someone.  I'm sure there is SOMEONE here piled high with things to do that can show you.

3.  The "Easy Button" doesn't really exist.  Figure it out.

4.  Although yes it is comfortable to take off your shoes to let those piggies air out... if you have nasty feet -- Don't do it.  Or at least hide them so when people walk by they aren't exposed.  If you are unsure if you have ugly or nice feet- ask someone. 

5.  Everyone wears and has their own smell....  however, come on people- help a girl out.  I do NOT wish to smell your nasty hair product. 

6.  Look in the mirror before you come to work.  If you can't twist to see what the back of you looks like in the mirror, your clothes are too tight and you should not wear them.

7.  Casual Friday (Jean Day) does not give you an excuse to dress like a slob or trash.

8.  I agree some days just drag on; however if that is your every day- you probably don't have enough to do.

9.  If the people you are suppose to be working with and for do not come to you for questions on your topic.... THERE'S YOUR SIGN.

10.  If when you sneeze, no one says "bless you", you probably are not liked.

11.  If you come over to talk to me (I mean to someone) and I (I mean they) don't look interested, or stop what they are doing (pretending to do) on their computer, it means they don't care and don't want to talk to you.  Move on to the next person.

12.  Personal phone calls happen at work; however hour long calls every day are not okay.  And if you find that you can stop what you are doing for this time to talk; please see #2.

13.  Words with Friends is not considered work.

14.  Texting is not writing a memo.

15.  Streaming movies online while at work does not count as being in a training sessions/webex.

16.   The weird animal like sound that you may make when trying to clear your throat (or whatever you are doing).... its disgusting and you should walk to the bathroom when needing to do that. 

17.  Please cover your mouth when you are coughing. 

18.  If your seaweed shake that you drink in the morning gives you explosive diarrhea daily; here is an idea - consider drinking it in the evenings so that happens when you are home in the privacy of your own home.  OR at least have the decency to give the stall/toilet a once quick over before you leave.... no one wants to see that or to have to clean that up. 

19.  To think of it; you should always do a quick look back before you exit the stall.  No need to leave anything behind on the seat.  IT'S GROSS!!!!

Enjoy!

Think before you speak....

So after the last 2-3 weeks at work I feel like I should be able to send out a memo of things not to say to a pregnant woman (or maybe I am only speaking for myself).  Now some of these are not necessarily terrible to say to someone but after the 10th time-- seriously......
 

1. Each day you walk in, and each day you are bigger.  -- Thank you- each day I look at you and you're bigger/uglier.

2. You really look like a pregnant woman now.  -- Yes thank you, I'm almost 29 weeks along- I think at some point you do actually look pregnant

3.  Something about me eating...AGAIN... Yes, let me type out my eating schedule for you and hang it on my desk that way you don't have to look during those times. 
         8-830 Breakfast (muffin)
         11-12 Lunch (sandwich/chips)
         3-330 Snack (varies)
   Really is that too much for you?? Not like I'm snacking all day.  It's not huge meals. 

4.  Sure are slowing down.  --Yes, thanks I didn't notice.  It takes a bit to get up to speed when you have been sitting at your desk working for the last 2 hours.  Working... that's a concept some should consider.

5.  Should you be drinking/eating that?  --I think I know what I should and should not be eating.  Plus is it really any of your business?  Should you be smoking that? 

6.  You are pregnant? Is this your 1st?  -- No 3rd. 
     OOOOO (look of pity/worry/crazy/you are insane/you look young for 3 kids)  -- Thanks, I know we are crazy- but I wouldn't have it any other way. 


Okay I might be done for now.....

Have a great weekend!
I think its going to be a great weekend for some bon fires and SMORES!!! :)

Prego Mego - Week 28

This week has been good. 

I am starting to feel the restrictions of being pregnant.  Bending down isn't as easy, when I drop something on the ground- I find myself really thinking "do i need that right now?"  I have to sit further away from my desk at work and find my belly hitting the drawers when I'm trying to get folders out!

Tonight both kids were able to feel the baby move/kick!  Charlie had the best reaction and then just decided to lay on me with his hand on my belly for a good 10 minutes.  They are both ready to meet this little one; although I'm not sure how long that excitement will stick around once he is here, crying and needing all sorts of attention.

There has been more tossing and turning when I'm trying to sleep.  And something I'm not use to is being so hot during the night.  Even in the summer I would always sleep with a blanket on and at least capris.  Now I'm looking to have on the least amount of clothes and no blankets.

Overall another good week.

Posting these weekly updates sure makes me realize how quickly time is going.  Only 12 more weeks until we get to meet this little guy.  Need to get serious about a name!

 

not a great picture.... but i think its still cute.

Myrtle Beach Family Pictures

We took some pictures when we were at the beach.... thought I would share.

The entire group

Kyle, Jen, Tim, Mike

Tim's Family

Love this one.....

Kyle's Family

Jen's Family

Kisses for Audrey

Us

Grandma and Grandpa with all 8 Grandkids

 It was a great trip.  Can't wait for Christmas when we all get together again (plus 1 more)!!!!


Let me know what you think!

Enjoy.

Mudding Monday

One of my favorite memories as a kid at my grandma and grandpa's house was an evening I was sleeping over there.  The weather was horrible-- I actually think there were tornado warnings at some point- but after everything started to calm down; my grandpa talked gram into letting me go outside and splash in the huge puddles (and flooded street).  It was so much fun!!! 
So yesterday as it was raining all day and I was sitting at work... blah blah blah - I thought we have got to do something fun tonight.... and that is just what we did!  I emailed Mike and he was all for finding a place with puddles and mud!!!! We put the kids in old clothes and packed the dogs in the car and off we went. 

Although the pictures are not great... I will let them speak for themselves!  The kids had a BLAST and I think the dogs were tired as well!!! 



The Before!









The After



What a fun evening! I think it is safe to say- the kids would welcome some more rain- especially since they are already asking to go back!

Hope you all had a good night!

 

Weekend Fun

Well the weekend went fast like always!!!

Friday Mike went to a movie so it was just me and the kids.  They got to watch Alvin and the Chipmunks.  To say they LOVED it is an understatement.  Throughout the movie they just kept looking back telling me how great it was and they couldn't wait to watch it with daddy too!

Saturday-- Happy 39th Wedding Anniversary to my Mother and Father In Law!!!

(Our expanding family!!!  Tim/Michelle (Drew, Jack, Will, Aubree); Kyle/Lana (Daniel & 2 on the way); Jennifer/Brian (Audrey); Mike/Jodi (Charles, Emilee, and 1 on the way).  I think I will try to do a post tonight on all the family pictures I took at the beach tonight!

How did they celebrate their anniversary...... working and watching our crazy kids so we could go to a wedding!!!!
I was so excited to see Jessie and Mike tie the knot!!!!! And what a perfect day/evening/event it was.  It was truly out of a fairy tale!!!! Jessie was the most beautiful bride I have ever seen-- (and that is saying a lot b/c I am married and I saw how amazing I looked... haha). 
They insisted on watching Alvin and the Chipmunks with Grandpa too... and they liked it just the same the 2nd time. 

Sunday- family day!!! Although we had some challenging times with Charlie.  It is as if him and Emmy switched roles the last few days.  Normally Emmy is the one that makes us take deep breathes and count to 10- but you better believe she gets in bed and she is out.  Charlie on the other hand, although he would try to test his limits and be a boy- he mainly would just want to be rough and wrestle; but when it came to bed- he would fight it.  The last few days/nights boy have the roles been reversed! It must be exhausting being "naughty" all day! Those fits take a lot out of you I guess.

Overall It was a pretty good weekend!!!