Celebrating three years and a three month old

Happy Anniversary to my handsome hubs that won my heart 7 years ago, proposed to me 5 years ago, married me 3 years ago and had a baby with me 3 months ago. Whew! It feels like time has flown by while it feels like yesterday we were getting married and heading to Costa Rica. Today we celebrate three years as well as having our three month old, Denson. I know they say 'Time flies when you're having fun' so I guess that explains it. Jonathan doesn't usually read my blog but I will request he does so he can find this sweet love letter. :)

Jonathan, compassion and patience describe who you are in two words. Those are my favorite qualities along with your sense of humor (and understanding mine). The way you live and work exudes God's love and inspires me to be a better person. One of my favorite things we do is the "fake laugh" for the picture where we start out pretending to laugh and eventually crack each other up and laugh so hard we can't stop. This has happened a lot since Denson was born. You encourage me to take time for me and you always support my decisions. We don't always agree but you're the first to try and understand where I'm coming from and find a compromise. You only get heated when I've pushed your buttons but you get mad in the most respectful way. I love you more each day and seeing you become a dad has been a blessing to me. We have the most adorable little boy and I hope Denson grows to share the same qualities and characteristics as you. Happy three years to you and a lot of fun as a family of three. I love you.

Newsworthy

I was talking with my husband last night about what the media considers "newsworthy". The verdict rendered in the Jodi Arias trial brought on this discussion as well as the coverage of Charles Ramsey and the rescue of three girls who have been held in captivity for at least a decade. It's incredible how news propels our society, some would say in a good direction and others would disagree. We can take a look back to 9/11 and how the 24/7 news coverage of those events ultimately resulted in how media covers stories today. There are pros and cons but as much as I love news, sometimes I turn on the t.v. and am overwhelmed with the constant replay of videos and commentary. More importantly, are the stories newsworthy or are they negative and inciting extreme emotion which should be left for the viewers to partake on their own. Does that make sense? I graduated with a degree in Public Relations and Advertising but originally set out to be a journalist. Whew! Thankful I changed my mind (no offense journalists). I'm now a stay-at-home mom and couldn't be happier. As a mom, I'm more aware of what is on the t.v., how it will affect Denson and is it even something the media should be reporting. Is it too much or where do you draw the line?

Well my newsworthy events include that Denson turned three months old this week. He's been sleeping through the night for a while because our routine is AWESOME. Bed around 7:30 and he doesn't get up until 6ish. Thank you Lord! He's rolling over, "talking" a lot more, pulling/holding things, sitting (it's a little wobbly) and smiling all the time. We love it and are so thankful for Denson and his growth. How rewarding it is to have him smile and gaze so deeply into my eyes.

Sorry they're blurry...These two pictures are from the phone

Making it work

There were a few days where I went without decent sleep and things became foggy...my lack of routine and awareness with Denson which ultimately led to confusing his cues and all around exhaustion in the Nevins' household. Those days just so happened to be thrown in with a lot of activities going on and selfishly, I just kept going. Over and over I have read in many baby books/blogs/magazines that you need to 'listen to your child'. My first thought was, he can't speak. Well I'm smart enough to know that they mean I can learn to recognize his cries, body language and expressions but it all seems the same those first few weeks. Right, new moms?! I have learned this past month what Denson's cues are and I am able to better satisfy his needs without all the fuss. Praise the Lord! It is a continual a work in progress but for now, we are back on track and feeling great. I realize there will be times to stop all activities and busyness and just be at home in order to take care of not only Denson but myself and Jonathan. We need REST to be our best selves, that is for sure! Although we had some rough nights, we did have a great week/weekend. I'm loving our family outings as long as I can nurse somewhere comfortable and remember the bottle inserts.

Last Thursday we went to a concert with our friends Josh and Ashley...they graciously gave us tickets and VIP access so we mostly enjoyed backstage. We had headphones for Denson and he actually fell asleep while watching the show...that, I did not expect. It was a blast but the night ended early so we could get home and try to sleep.

Friday, the family I nannyed for in college came to visit and meet Denson. I can't believe how big the boys are and enjoyed seeing them and their big personalities. They gave us a precious frame with Denson's birth announcement and an assortment of hand-me-downs that we love. I am thankful to know them and have experienced being a part of their family while I was in college at Alabama.

Friday night, we volunteered with Jonathan's work at the Relay for Life event. We invited my sister, brother-in-law and dad. We ate too much bbq and funnel cakes, and only walked around the track two or three times. Defeats the healthy purpose of our volunteering but oh well. They raised money for a great cause and it made me realize that I am ready for Jonathan and I to get back to volunteering here before we move and in Georgia after we relocate. We volunteered with Habitat in Florida and loved it. We met incredible people and enjoyed working together in the community. 

Sunday was church and then a perfect lunch with our friends Allison and Adam. We love them and haven't been able to get together so it was great catching up. After we filled our bellies with pizza from Slice (and milk) we stopped by the in-laws house to visit. Denson was showing off his new skills, smiling and entertaining everyone especially Aunt Jessica.

And we're back early

We were planning to stay at the beach until Wednesday but after family left by Monday, we were thinking we just want to get home to relax, regroup and save those other vacation days for the next trip in June/July when we go again but with the entire family. I never dreamed I would say I want to leave the beach, but with our busy week ahead and after four full nights, we had our beach fill and wanted to get back to our routine. Considering we will be moving in a few months, we have more to-dos on our plate to get the house ready to sell.

We had a blast...strolling, hanging out in the house, going out to dinner every night and Denson was showered with lots of extra love between my mom, sister and meeting his great grandmother. This trip was special, being our first with Denson, but it is going to be a completely different experience in a few months when he is more mobile. Jonathan kayaked in the ocean with uncle Eric and got to hangout with the dolphins.  Jonathan and I took a walk on the beach together while mom stayed with Denson and it was refreshing...we haven't had anyone babysit while we go out yet but Lacy keeps telling me, whenever ya'll need a babysitter we are ready! I think we will take her up on that offer :)

We have begun house hunting and actually have found a couple of different homes that are reasonable in regard to looks and price. There are moments I'm ready for an adventure and to pack our bags and other times, I think about the fun lunch dates we have with my mom and sister and not being able to do those things as often. I am putting the move in God's hands and going to have faith that He will provide exactly what we need.

Denson's little personality has blossomed and he is smiling now, reaching out to us and chewing on his fingers. His sleep has been interrupted for the past week or so and we're not sure if it's because he is teething or just a phase or both. We are going to try and be better about the nighttime routine so maybe it will help him sleep more soundly. He usually wakes up 3-5 times and we give him his paci but we also wonder if he may fall back asleep if we wait a little longer.

The first night we went to Acme Oyster House for dinner. It was unexpectedly freezing! Glad I had his hat in the diaper bag.

Uncle Eric and my hubby :)

My sweet mama 

Their chargrilled oysters are amazing! 

Denson meeting Great Grammy for the first time. He cuddled with her after his nap.

Mom showing Denson the canal...

and the BIG boats

Denson 'coloring' at dinner. We thought it was so funny the server gave us a crayon and coloring page for him. 

Daddy dressed Denson for his first day on the beach. He wasn't happy at first but then loved it once we got outside. 

Aunt Lacy and Denson on the beach

We attempted to lay him on a towel and just use an umbrella but the wind was so strong we just took his car seat on the beach to keep him shaded. It worked but we had sand everywhere by the end of the afternoon.

Bath time 

My handsome husband getting ready to kayak. I definitely don't give him enough credit and I am thankful for his incredible patience and understanding even in the moments I don't deserve it. He is always calm and faithful no matter what the situation and takes care of our family in such a Godly way. You are an amazing husband and dad!

Beach vacation

We made it to the beach last night and in great timing, might I add! I didn't know how Denson would do with a 5 hour drive but we didn't have to stop at all. We are so thankful to spend a week in Destin relaxing and watching Denson grow right before our eyes. Fun pictures and posts to come when we get back :)

Weekend happenings

So this past weekend was packed full of activities and fun as well as some major prayer and decision making. Jonathan's company is reorganizing and we were aware that a large number of people were going to be relocated in the future...we didn't know when or where. Last week, Jonathan found out they want him at one of the plants in Georgia and the earliest date we will move is August. This seems to have been such a long, confusing process...we discussed where we would like to go, although we were aware that God made lead us somewhere else. And He has. When they told Jonathan where he would be relocating, he was rather shocked (it was his last choice) but after discussing it further, he realized this is an excellent career opportunity and God will provide. He knows he has my full support and confidence that we will make the most of small town life with Denson. I am so thankful to be able to stay at home with Denson and we are fortunate that the transition will be smooth thanks to the relocation assistance the company provides. It's easy to set our eyes and hearts on what we think will be our path and then God changes that in a big way. Although we will not be as close to family and friends, the three of us are in for an adventure and will make frequent trips to visit!

It was a great relief after Jonathan accepted the offer and the deal was done, we were ready to enjoy the weekend. Friday was family sushi date night, my favorite. Denson had warm sake milk, of course. Saturday was the kick-off of Pepper Place Farmers Market and we bought some tomatoes, tomato plants, rosemary and honey. Saturday afternoon, I got to make a trip to the spa. Woo hoo! My sweet brother-in-law gave me a gift certificate for Christmas. Loved it. Jonathan and Denson napped and watched the Masters. Perfect weekend for momma to treat herself to a spa day.

That evening we were going to the Barons' game with three other couples and two babies. That turned out to be a bust. One couple didn't communicate with each other about actually going, so they cancelled. Another couple's sweet six month old was running a fever. Thankfully my sister and brother-in-law were able to make it so it wasn't completely doomed. Jonathan, Denson and I arrived first, got our stroller situated behind the seats, his bottle was ready and we were set. We both got a beer and I was beginning to relax just as Jonathan mentioned that we did not grab the insert pieces for the bottle...therefore, the milk would pour out if we tried to feed him. GREAT. I stopped drinking my beer after two delicious sips, and we headed to find a family/nursing room. The ones on the bottom floor were not finished, so I was escorted upstairs to the one family room. While I'm nursing him, he has a complete blow out. I sit and laugh as I think about how his extra set of clothes are in the car. [This is why I look nuts when I carry around a suit case-sized diaper bag. You need to have multiple back-ups of everything] I quickly change him to prevent further leakage and we came out with only a small spot on the back of his shorts. I continued nursing as I received texts from hubby and my sister. I told them I may make it out before the game ends but if not, i'll meet them at the gate.

Postives: 1) it was fun despite the mishaps 2) we got to ride the elevator with the mascot, Babe Ruff
Reminders: 1) being a parent means you're no longer enabled to be as selfish 2) ALWAYS carry the diaper bag

Sunday was church and lunch with my MIL and SIL. It was rainy and again, Denson and Jonathan watched the masters while I headed over to a Stella Dot jewelry party at my sisters. It was strange being away from my husband and baby this weekend. I missed them so much after only a couple of hours. I do treasure alone time and it is important to take that time for myself every once in a while. Becoming a mom  has added a different dimension to who I am but it's important to maintain my identity as an individual and as a wife. I'm learning how to do that each day and pray that I can fill all of those roles to my greatest potential.

Friday favorites

 Here are a few items I'm loving lately...

PHILOSOPHY'S FACIAL CLEANSER

I have sensitive, dry skin and it is amazing! My skin feels so soft & moisturized. 

AVEENO'S NOURISH & MOISTURIZE SHAMPOO

It's only $6.99 and truly moisturizes unlike most shampoos that promise that.

YANKEE CANDLE'S WAX TARTS

BEACHWALK FRAGRANCE

Our house is smelling divine! 

TO HEAVEN AND BACK

MARY C. NEAL

Mom recommended this book & so thankful she did. An incredibly inspiring true story of a medical doctor who experiences heaven in a near death kayaking accident. Quick, easy read that reminds us God performs miracles every day. Perfect timing for me to read this & how I've been able to apply it to the lessons we've discussed in our small group. 

PEPPER PLACE FARMERS MARKET

So excited the farmers market kicks off tomorrow morning. Can't wait to get our fresh produce & local honey. 

Today was Denson's two month appointment and he received his first round of shots. Although Jonathan had planned to be at the appointment all month, he had a last minute [very important] meeting at work and wasn't able to make it. Thank goodness my mom is flexible and was able to come over last minute to go to the appointment with me. Denson did great and has been a trooper this afternoon. He weighs 12 lbs 8oz and is 23 inches. We love you sweet pea! We're looking forward to a beautiful weekend with family and friends. Hope you enjoy this beautiful weather too!