It's time for change

What an amazing experience today, to watch the Presidential Inauguration. What an inspiration for change. To think that just a few decades ago, this was not possible. This gives us, as a nation, great hope. As individuals, we can see the potential in all of us. This is the time to contribute to change. Change your life, change your attitude, change your socks. Whatever you do, make a change. Today.
"There is nothing wrong with change, if it is in the right direction" - Winston Churchill

Let's get real...

Since the beginning of this blog, I have resorted to using the 'best of the best' pictures that I have taken of us as individuals, as well as a family. It's quite easy to do, actually. To portray to everyone that we are perfect, a happy little family that doesn't have worries or troubles or heartache. Pictures can be deceiving. I can't tell you how many times I have had somebody ask me to take my picture with someone who I have no business standing next to, let alone smiling. But, I do it to save face, and to not disappoint the 'picture taker'. Deceiving I tell you, because I could post some of those pictures and you would never guess that moments after those pictures, I spend the entire car ride home bawling my eyes out just to relieve the stress from the day...
In this New Year, I have decided that I am going to start being more honest, more brave, less restricted. I am making a choice to speak cautiously... to not say something about someone that I would be ashamed about if that person overheard. I will be more aware of my family and its best interests and make personal choices that benefit and encourage personal happiness. Call it selfish, which it is by all means, but I am done doing things to please other people and pacify situations. It has put our marriage at great risk. Even typing this now, I am questioning myself, but I will hit that 'publish post' button down there (after some editing)! Wouldn't you just love to know what I have deleted so far?!
Alas, I must step down from my soap box as it's way past my bedtime, but rest assured that this will not become my stomping ground for bitching and complaining! However, you may find that I will be more honest and forthcoming about my days and moments. I hope that it makes you laugh, makes you cry, and also let you know that you're not alone... but really, it's mostly for my benefit ;o)

The most adorable husband in the world

Oh Miss Irelynn - these were the gassy tummy days. Now she just cries when I leave the room...

I think my husband gets this look a lot (which explains his look above)

Isaac after a rough day, or moment, this kid can cry at the drop of a hat (the apple didn't fall far from the tree here)

The gDiaper... round 2

Finally after many months of paying way too much for Pampers, we decided to drop a load of money all at once on the gDiaper... again! I am inspired by the gDiaper. I love that they are versatile and eco-friendly, cute and trim, user-friendly and cost-efficient! We are using cloth diapers for catching the pee and poo instead of the flushables they were designed for. I have painstakingly sewed all of our pre-folds into an adorable contour shape so that they will be less bulky between the legs. Miss Irelynn may be petite, but she definitely has some thighs! So, every little bit helps. I don't think that I took a picture of her modeling them before, but I did get one last night... barely!

Here are pictures of Isaac and Irelynn each at 9 months - look at all of the differences! Isaac weighed 26 lbs 4 oz and Irelynn weighs 20 lbs even! One thing they have in common is their 6 teeth!