Jeff, Ashley & Gavin

Happy 1st Birthday My Sweet Gavin

2011-11-07T19:13:00.002-06:00

Birthday gift!

Dear Gavin,

I am tearing up as I write you this letter. Its hard to believe one year ago you were born. Life is so wonderful with you here. Daddy and I love you more than you will EVER know. You are the sweetest little boy and so happy, curious, helpful, WILD (but we love it!), bright, smart, and lovable.

The day you were born was just magical. You never cried - just looked around the room with your big bright beautiful eyes. Everyone commented how BEAUTIFUL you were. Really - some babies are kinda wrinkly and blobby, but you my sweet Gavin were perfect. I remember the look on Daddy's face when he first saw you. I have never seen a look of love and such pride! He still tears up (ok, blubbers) when he thinks about that day - or any day with you really. One day he will sit you down and tell you all about it. I remember holding you and locking eyes with you. We just gazed at each other for such a long time. We still do that sometimes when you let me hold you - you are usually too busy chasing poor Emma around or playing with your toys!

You are getting so big and everything is new and fun to you. At school you moved up AGAIN because you are so bright and smart! You are the youngest by 6 months and still one of the brightest. Its amazing. You like to play with other kids are so sweet to them. I am so proud of you!

Thank you sweet baby for making our lives so wonderful and complete!! Happy 1st Birthday!!

Love Mommy

We are still here!

2011-11-07T19:04:00.003-06:00

During!

After his first haircut

I see you!
Riding the roller coaster!

Bad Mommy Blogger I am! Life is just so busy these days. Whenever I am not chasing Gavin around, I am trying to get other things done. Like cleaning the house, working out, training for a 5K, and oh yeah - working!

A few new things that my sweet Gavin is doing these days:

Not just walking around, but RUNNING

Down to one nap a day for 2 hours!

Wearing 18 month everything

Down to three bottles a day, 2 in sippy cups

Drinks 50% milk, 50% formula

Has had two hair cuts already

Loves Mommy's mac & cheese

Only has his paci at night time (Thank God!!)

Moved up to a new class at school and gets to play outside now!

Says: Mama, Dada, Ba ba (when he wants his milk), bye, hanks (for thanks) up, see

Likes to point to things and say SEE

Sleeps from 7 to 7 ALL NIGHT LONG

Still is just the sweetest little thing in the world

Oh yeah, and he is ONE! That post is next!

Here we go!

2011-09-09T15:44:00.002-05:00

And it begins! This was taken about 3 weeks ago!

Busy Busy!

2011-09-09T15:37:00.002-05:00

We have had one busy summer - between work, vacation, playdates, and other events, I have not had time to blog. I uploaded pictures of Gavin from 9 and 10 months. Hard to believe this month he will be 11 months...then next month ONE. Wow. Time really does fly. I have a lump in my throat typing this thinking that one year ago I was getting all ready for him...finishing up the room and making the final perfect touches.... wow. Anyway before I start crying! Here are some more pictures of whats been going on! Jeff and I also are celebrating THREE years of marriage this month! I sure love that sweet man...

Gavin at 10 month in pictures

2011-09-09T15:33:00.002-05:00

Gavin at 9 months in pictures

2011-09-09T15:28:00.001-05:00

Summer

2011-07-21T19:29:00.004-05:00

The bride, Robyn

Gavin's Great Aunt Ruth Ann
Gavin & his Great Grandma Hazel!
Gavin posing for the camera :)
Hard Rock Casino pool
My sweet boys at the beach

I cant believe its been a whole month since I have blogged. We have had a busy summer so far!

A couple weeks ago we went on our first (summer) family vacation. We went to Biloxi, MS & Atlanta, GA. We spent four wonderful days at the beach & pool, and two great days in Atlanta for my beautiful cousins wedding! She was the most beautiful bride I have ever seen - stunning and SO happy. I of course cried the whole time! Gavin got to meet lots of my family and friends. He was such a good baby for the entire car ride, wedding, and vacation in general. We are lucky! Every time we crossed a state line he was asleep - it was pretty funny when we were on our way home and finally got into Texas, Gavin had JUST fallen asleep :) In Biloxi we stayed at the Hard Rock Casino & IP Casino. Both had amazing rooms and pools. We are thinking about making that our annual summer vacation spot we loved it so much.

Next week I go on a (much needed) girls trip to the Hill Country. I plan on doing nothing but sleeping, reading, relaxing, and drinking some wine :)

Baby Dedication

2011-06-22T19:57:00.003-05:00

Last weekend was so very special for many reasons. 1 - It was Jeff's first Father's Day! He is such a wonderful husband & Father and Gavin and I are so lucky to have him. 2. Baby dedication at our church!! We started attending a new church several weeks back and we immediatly fell in love with the place. Its so pretty, friendly, great childcare, AMAZING pastor, and lots of our friends attend as well. When our pastor came up to the 3 of us and said a prayer over us I of course cried (happy tears!!) and felt very happy. Happy that our sweet little boy had so many people praying over him at the same moment, happy we had SO many of our wonderful friends attend that special service, and so happy that I have such a beautiful family. God sure knew what he was doing putting Jeff & I together :)

Its been awhile..

2011-06-14T09:44:00.003-05:00

I have been so busy the last few weeks - sorry for the lack of updates!

Here are the new things our sweet Gavin is doing now (the list is long!!)

Full on crawling

pulling up on everything

walking along things like the ottoman, couch, ect

mama,dada,baba,titter (for tigger!)

eating table food (well, he eats puffs and yogurt bites)

on a great new schedule eating 5, 40z bottles, plus breakfast, lunch, dinner solids and a big 8oz bottle at night

Sleeping from 7:30-6:00 pretty much all night long (YAY!)

seperation anxiety is FULL ON

met his great grandparents!

9-12 month clothing

swimming (well, floating!) in the pool

claps his hands!

dances to the mickey mouse hot dog song

Im sure there are more things that baby is doing but my mind is a little fuzzy. I have been sick for a week now (yes again)

Gavin is so fun right now. He loves to play, Mommy to hold him, and nap with Daddy. I can not believe that in just another couple weeks he will be 8 months old. Time really does fly...too fast.

Lots of babies being born!! My friend Melissa had a sweet little boy at the beginning of the month - Alex. He is SO CUTE! I wish I could fly up to Indy and snuggle on him. My friend Janelle in Canada had a little boy just last week. His name is Parker and he is a ball of cuteness as well! I have a VERY good friend - who I will not name names - that is pregnant after trying for...about a year? I have already predicted its a boy. She has had no problems so far. I always think that boys are eaiser on their mommys :)

Enjoy the new pictures of Gavin! I will have some really cute ones in a few weeks. We are going on our first summer family vacation to.... THE BEACH! and no, not Galveston either! White sandy beach and blue water type of beach!!! Cant wait to watch Gavin in the ocean, eat sand, and see a beautiful sunset. My beautiful cousin is also getting married next month. I can not wait to see her and her family. My entire family (well, one side of them!) is going to be there and none of them have met Gavin yet! Talk about a good time!!

With Love & Blessing!

His outdoor pool chair (yes the cord keeps him in!)

Peek a boo! I see you!

Great Grandpa, Gavin, & Mommy

Great Grandma, Gavin, and a disheveled Mommy :)

Gavin and his great grandparents all the way from IL to visit!

New Pictures

2011-05-24T17:14:00.001-05:00

My sweet boy is growing like a weed! He is ALMOST crawling - about another week and he will be full on crawling. This excites me and scares me all at once. He is already going from a sitting position to pulling up on everything and begining to take some steps while holding on to something - usually the big leather ottoman. He says Mama, Dada, and baba (bottle)

Mother's Day

2011-05-10T20:32:00.002-05:00

My first Mother's Day...a day that I will def not forget!! I woke up to breakfast with my two boys and PINK EYE! Gavin gave me pink eye! Thanks bud! :) All in all we had a wonderful day. We hung out, watched movies, and even got in the pool outside! Here are some pictures from our wonderful day. I am such a lucky blessed lady to have such two wonderful boys in my life! Thank you Jeff for giving me the greatest gift in the world!

Letter to Gavin

2011-04-27T11:58:00.000-05:00

Happy 1/2 birthday to my sweet Gavin!!! I love you little man! (It was Wednesday 4-26)

Dear Gavin,

Thank you for making the last six of my life amazing. You are such a sweet little soul. Every day with you is a new adventure! I love watching you discover, grow, sleep, and smile. Your smile is contagious and beautiful and it matches your sweet personality. You love to laugh at Daddy when he makes funny faces at you! Oh and you REALLY get to laughing when he blows raspberries on your belly, back, and chunky feet! You also love to stare at Mommy. Sometimes I feel like I can really read your mind. Maybe that's just my Mommy instinct but I always know just what to do :) When you look at me with your big beautiful blue eyes it makes my heart just melt and time stands still. I could stare at you forever.

Thank you again sweet boy for being just perfectly amazing! I love you with all my heart and soul!

Love,

Mommy

Easter Bean

2011-04-26T13:16:00.002-05:00

Hoppy Easter!!!

Bluebonnets

2011-04-18T11:22:00.003-05:00

This time of year in Houston is always so beautiful. The weather is cool, the sun is shining, and the bluebonnets & wild flowers are blooming. Except this year. There is such a bad drought right now there are no bluebonnets, it is HOT, and the sun is blazing. Jeff, Gavin and I drove up towards Austin to find a patch to get Gavin's picture in. We drove past Brenham - almost to Giddings (which is half way to Austin) to find some. We saw a sign for Saddle...horn? Winery and decide to check it out. Good thing we did because we found ONE small patch! We pulled over, threw a blanket down and snapped some pictures. Gavin is so sweet and just loves getting his picture taken (he is a ham like Mommy!) We also checked out the winery which was really nice and had a little tasting. The whites were good, but the reds were just so so. After the winery, we went to the Brenham airport for lunch ( we have heard great reviews! ) and ate lunch while watching the planes. Something was up with Gavin and he was just kept giggling. He would start laughing at the slightest little thing and couldn't stop! He entertained the whole patio for quite awhile! I love that little man!!!

Big boy shopping cart experience

2011-04-15T11:12:00.002-05:00

Gavin has moved up to riding in the shopping cart at HEB now. He LOVED it. He would lean back and stare up at the lights and ceiling and just start giggling! So cute. I bought him this cart cover over a year ago. Right when I found out I was pregnant. It was half off on one of my favorite baby sites (http://www.mamabargins.com/) It has a pillow, lots of padding, and a back pocket to keep my stuff in or G's toys. Cute!

Gavin's new ride

2011-04-15T11:02:00.003-05:00

Gavin's Papaw (Warren) bought him a race car swing while he was here last weekend. Gavin LOVED it. Gma, G, and I watched Daddy and Papaw hang the swing in the backyard (it was quite an experience to witness!!!) Gavin had a blast swinging on it. The pictures below were taken a couple nights ago. I have to get the really cute ones off the camera :)

Zoo Day

2011-04-11T11:30:00.004-05:00

Gavin sportin his shades at the meerkat exhitib

All smiles all the time!

My little angel

Mommy is so funny!

Who's got that baby? Thats G's fave game!

Sweet boy

Last Tuesday my friend Sam went to the zoo with Gavin and I. We had SO much fun. Gavin loved looking at the fish, meerkats, rhinos, and elephants. Mommy liked the giraffes! Here are some sweet pictures of that baby. He has the sweetest smile :) I just love that little man! Thank you for the WONDERFUL pictures of Gavin, Sammy! We love you so!

Best Buds

2011-04-06T11:45:00.003-05:00

While Jeff is out of town this week, my best bud invited me to her house to hang out and cook dinner. Gavin and I happily accepted and headed over. I wish I had a video of the boys playing together - Jameson would run up to Gavin and put his paci back in his mouth all while holding his bink in hand. He was running around showing off his slide, eating goldfish, and tripping over his bink. SO CUTE this kid is I tell ya! They are going to grow up together and be the best of buds just like their Mommy's!! Michelle made us a white pizza with roasted garlic. Some of it got in the oven causing the smoke detector to go off (like 10 times) but that was one of the best za's I have ever had. YUM. I cant wait for another night over at their house :) Thanks ston...Michelle ;)

Sunday Funday

2011-03-28T12:07:00.005-05:00

Gavin's new hockey stick

My sweet lil G

Daddy and Gavin

Gavin and his favorite cheerleader!

Red wing pants and a hockey shirt! He was ready for the game :)

The three of us had such a wonderful weekend. Friday night we did our "norm" at Winestyles. We were not there too long since we knew we would be going on Saturday afternoon as well. I had a nice big pork roast in the crock pot and made the pioneer womans recipe: http://thepioneerwoman.com/cooking/2011/03/spicy-dr-pepper-shredded-pork/ It was fantastic!!! YUM! Even put it in a tortilla with eggs the next morning for breakfast :)

Saturday we went shopping for area rugs for the new floors. Oh yes. The new floors. Did I mention we have beautiful hardwood floors now?! FINALLY! I love them!! We came home fed Gavin and then went to Cy-Fest. It was lame. Hot and lame. Im sure if Gavin was older (like 5) he could ride the rides and be interested in the petting zoo. We went to a beer tasting after with friends and came home and hung out the rest of the evening.

Sunday we went to see my friend, Sam, at The Grove. Its a fantastic restaurant at Discovery Green. That place is just fantastic! We will have to bring Gavin there to play one day and have lunch at The Grove to see Sammy after. Then we took Gavin to his first hockey game :) He had so much fun (as we all did) he watched the game and starred at the cheerleaders :) One came down to see him and got a picture with him! Gavin was smiling b/c Mommy was in the background making funny faces. Don't worry, I am still his best friend and favorite girl :) We ended the evening at home making veggie pasta together and feeding Gavin his rice cereal. YUM YUM!

Daddy leaves for Mississippi this week to go golfing with his Dad (Gpa Hawkins) I am SO excited b/c that means that Gma Hawkins is coming for a visit!! I cant wait to see her and hand over Gavin so she can love on him!!! We are going to San Antonio and Galveston too! Yay for a (mini) vacation!

Almost 5 months old

2011-03-24T11:38:00.004-05:00

Gavin will be FIVE months old this weekend. I can not believe how times flies. Its so bittersweet. I love watching my sweet boy grow, flourish, discover, and SMILE. He has the most beautiful smile and does it all the time :) I get sad sometimes knowing that he is not that little tiny baby anymore. He does not need those little mittens to keep him from scratching himself, the little hat to keep his head warm, or only 2oz filling him up! I used to always say (when he was a newborn) I cant WAIT until he does _____ I can wait though. I can wait to see him crawl. I can wait to see him walk, talk, and run. I have learned to take it just one day at time now. I am so blessed to have a healthy, smart, beautiful son.

And now - on to some very cute pictures :)

Sitting up by himself for about 30 seconds! Good job Buddy!

I love this smile!!!

My sweet handsome boys

That baby...

2011-03-17T12:53:00.003-05:00

IS SO CUTE!

yum yum! Rice Cereal!

Chef Hawkins

He kinda looks like Toad from Mario Brothers!! :)

Rodeo day at his school!

Angel Face

New pictures

2011-03-10T13:57:00.003-06:00

Here are some new pictures of the Bean. I love this little guy SO MUCH! He is just the love of my life (Dont worry, Jeff is too!) How can he not be? He is a little mini Jeff! I love my sweet husband so much. He gave me the most precious gift in the world :)

Mr. Cool going on a ride in the 'cart' (stroller) as my husband calls it!

Look how long that baby is! 27" to be exact.

Happy Bean with his new toys!

Gavin in his big boy chair! He loved it!

Children's Museum

2011-03-10T13:50:00.003-06:00

Last weekend we went down to the Childrens Museum to check it out. It is #1 in the US and I can see why! Jeff, Gavin, and I had such a blast! I cant wait until G can crawl or walk the next time we go!

Future Spartan!

2011-03-01T11:42:00.002-06:00

Remember this? See my shirt?

And now look!

HAHA! Look at those dimples!!

Watch out Izzo! He is in the 95% for height!

Too cool for school

2011-03-01T11:36:00.001-06:00

My little man is just TOO cool :)

Gavin and Mommy laughing

2011-02-24T11:28:00.000-06:00

Gavin's 1st roll over.MOV

2011-02-23T20:55:00.000-06:00

Who is more tired?

2011-02-23T20:32:00.004-06:00

Mommy & Gavin after a hard work out (me doing P90X and Gavin in his jumperoo!)

I started working out pretty hard core recently. I really want to get my pre baby body back. But not the one I had right before I was pregnant - the one I had when I met Jeff. I started doing SOME P90X, my Wii fit (so fun!) and taking Gavin on brisk walks in the afternoons. So far I can already see and feel the difference!

Happy Valentines Day

2011-02-14T10:34:00.002-06:00

This is what Gavin made for us at school on Friday :)

I have the two best Valentines this year!!! My sweet Jeff & Gavin :)

New pictures

2011-02-14T10:09:00.005-06:00

Mmmm tasty!

Sleepy boy

On his playmat

Mommy & Lil G

Check out those Gap skinny leg pants!!!!

Happy bean w/his new toy bean!

Toy belt!

Gavin with his new tool belt from Ikea :)

My boys

In his exersaucer at school

My sweet happy boy

Too cool for school!

My little man is growing up. He is so sweet. Here are some new happenings:

1. Got him a jumperoo! He LOVES it! He can turn himself around in the little seat
2. Likes his johnny jump up ONLY when Mommy is in the kitchen cooking so he can watch :)
3. Almost rolling all the way over. He gets his little shoulder stuck - but is almost there.

4. Giggles all the time

5. Eating 5oz during the day and 6oz at night

6. Is wearing 6 month size clothing
7. Loves his teachers at school

8. Likes his new stick rattles

9. Loves Daddy

10. Loves Mommy :)

Family Photo

2011-02-01T12:59:00.003-06:00

Gavin's school had a photographer come in about 3 weeks ago. We got the sweetest picture of the 3 of us :)

PROOF!

2011-01-24T11:52:00.000-06:00

He will sleep in his crib! Super swaddled, of course.

Sick & Sleepy

2011-01-24T11:43:00.002-06:00

Sweet baby

CHEEKS!

Knawing on Sophie

Im sick Mommy :(

sleepy boy

Laying in on my arm

My poor sweet Bean was sick over the weekend. He didnt feel well and slept most of the weekend. Even sick, he was still so sweet, happy, and smiled. Here are some pictures from the weekend. He is SO cute!!

Just because

2011-01-17T10:26:00.002-06:00

A little blurry, but still very cute!

Updates on Gavin:

LOVES his school! He knows his teachers and Ms. Margarita is his favorite.
Eats 5oz at all feedings
loves his cashmere bunny
sleeps through the night! YAY!
is wearing 3-6 month clothing. he is so long they are the only things that fit him!
laughs out loud
trying to crawl!
sitting up
smiles at everyone and everything
the ceiling fan is still his favorite thing to stare at besides mommy of course
loves to watch me blow dry my hair
starting to sleep in his crib (this is HUGE people!)

I love this little boy. He is the most precious thing on this earth!! I am so lucky ;)

Sweet Gavin

2011-01-12T10:35:00.002-06:00

Gavin on his horse he got for Christmas from Gma & Gpa Hawkins

He needed some help from Daddy of course :)

Smile sweet boy!

SO SO SO CUTE!!!!

I love Gavin's sweet little face :) Just looking at him brightens my day!!

Christmas recap!

2011-01-02T16:26:00.004-06:00

See the deer behind us?
Family picture at Driftwood Estates
Mommy and Gavin
Im a big boy in my Bumbo!
Mommy and Gavin on Christmas morning!

We had such a wonderful Christmas!! I hope you all did too! Gavin got lots of goodies from Santa, Mommy/Daddy, his Grandparents, Aunts/Uncle and cousins! He made out like a bandit ;) Gavin got Mommy a video camera and we were able to film his first Christmas. Its something I will always look back on and remember what wonderful day it was.

The day after Christmas the three of us took a little mini vacation to the Hill Country. We spent a couple nights south of Austin in a town called Driftwood. We rented a house with a view, hot tub, and deer on the property! The deer were so cute. We got to hand feed them and pet them everyday! It was really cute and we got video to prove it! We shopped, went to a couple wineries, had a picnic, went to Salt Lick (YUM!) and spent lots of time relaxing. It was just wonderful and Gavin was so good the whole time. He is so alert and loves looking around at everything. He is so happy and I love watching peoples reactions when they look at him! He smiles at everyone and everything and is even starting to try and sit up. He can lay on his tummy and push all the way up and look around too! Its amazing to see the changes in him almost daily! I am a proud Mommy :)

Gavin starts daycare tomorrow. Its bittersweet for me. I will be glad to get out of the house and start work again. I really do love my job and am lucky that I am able to go back part time. I will miss spending all day with Gavin, but I know that school will be good for him. He'll be more sociable, learn a lot more than I can teach him, grow and discover more things and really be on a firm schedule. Again, Im lucky I will get my afternoons with him. I have this fear he wont remember when each day when I pick him up. Jeff says I am silly and I know it, but I still cant help it. I am going to miss my little guy a lot. I'll take him for a couple days without working to see how the days will go. Next time I update I'll write about how the daycare issue is going! Hopefully all good stuff!!

My big boy!

2010-12-24T07:45:00.003-06:00

After bath time!
Mr. Smiles
Smiling at Mommy!
Look at me hold my head up Mommy! Im a big boy!

Gavin is getting so big! His 2 month check up he grew 3 inches, gained over 2 pounds, and his little head an inch! He had his shots too. Mommy cried much harder than he did and for much longer. He took it very well and slept most of the afternoon. He had a good hour long crying spell that night, ate, and passed out until 5am, woke up to eat, then passed out again until 8am! He also did this last night as well (minus the crying spell) Look like my buddy is about ready to start STTN :) (sleeping through the night!) I will actually miss those couple night time feedings. I remember just 2 months ago when we brought him home we would get lots of snuggling time after I would nurse him. I love getting sleep, but still cant help but miss those early days...

Today is CHRISTmas Eve. I have so much to be thankful for this year...God is so good, all the time, and Jeff and I are so thankful to have a beautiful, healthy, happy family.

We are taking a little family vacation after the holidays too!! Jeff and I are VERY excited :) Gavin is too, he just doesnt know it yet ;)

Merry Christmas!!

Big boy bath!

2010-12-17T10:16:00.003-06:00

"Uh, Mom - please dont let go"
Ohhh this is fun!
I love the warm water!
No I dont want to get out!!

Here are some picture of Gavin having his first bath. Mommy was in the tub too, but dont worry there are no pictures of her :)

Santa Baby

2010-12-17T10:12:00.002-06:00

Hey! I am Santa's little helper!
My two handsome boys
Mommy's date for a Christmas party!

Only 8 more days until CHRISTmas! We are all so excited!!

Gavin at 6 weeks

2010-12-11T12:49:00.004-06:00

Happy Baby!

Look at that dimple!!!

Christmas party outing

Its hard to believe Gavin is already 6 weeks old! He is learning more everyday and discovering new things. I love watching him grow each day and learn the world more and more each day. He loves his bouncy seat with the toys. He stares at the rattles and little toys and is batting at them and grabs at them! He can sit and stare at those toys for 30 + mins each time! Gives Mommy a nice break :) He smiles ALL the time and loves to smile for his Daddy and Mommy. He has the cutest little dimple just like Jeff and it makes my heart just melt eachtime he does smile!

We are so excited for our first CHRISTmas this year and have so much to be thankful for. What a wonderful blessing we have. I fall more in love with my boys every day and love watching those two together!

New pics

2010-11-28T13:39:00.005-06:00

Pooh giving Gavin the bottle :)
Mommy and Gavin napping
Little chick magnet
Jeff Hawkins JR!
After Gavin's first bath!
Snuggling up with my little man!

Here are some new pictures of the first month at home with my sweet baby, Gavin. He is the cutest little man I have ever seen! Our days are full of fun starting at 6am each day. We wake up and eat and he has some play time with Daddy while I sleep. Then I wake up around 8ish and get a few things done before its time to get Gavin dressed for the day and fed again. We have tummy time and nap time after and repete those steps a couple more times. Gavin gets a bath about every other night to keep his sweet little self nice and clean and smelling good! When he goes to sleep, Jeff and I have dinner and settle in for the night. Gavin is sleeping through the night only waking to eat every 3.5 hours! Its been really nice! His eye is getting better and the medicine is sure working great for his reflux!! The colic has not been an issue for awhile either! YAY!

Thanksgiving was great this year! I made a nice big dinner and we all ate together and watch Charlie Brown Thanksgiving on TV after. Im looking forward to Christmas together as a family this year :)

Enjoy the pictures!

Gavin is 3 weeks!

2010-11-17T14:34:00.003-06:00

and one day :) Our little monkey is getting big! He is 8lbs 6oz last week and we go back to the pedi on Monday to get another check up. Gavin has the following issues: blocked tear duct (on eye drop meds) GERD (reflux and on zantac meds) diaper rash and oh yes. COLIC. Our poor little boy has so many little hicups wrong but I know we will get through this. The zantac for gerd is already working and his tear duct seems to get better every day. My cousin recommended a book called baby wise to help with the colic and getting him on a better schedule. I feel so bad for Gavin. I felt like the worst Mommy ever last week, but I now know that none of this is my fault. Im going to get that baby on a schedule and help him feel better soon!

I am back in my pre preg clothes already and weigh less that I did before I got pregnant! Breast feeding does burn some calories! Jeff and I are sleeping together on the couch some nights when its really cold (our bedroom is freezing!) We are looking forward to getting Gavin in his own crib soon. He has slept in it before, but I think he likes knowing we are close to him when we all sleep. Jeff is such a great help and is so good with Gavin. I love watching those two together :)

Thanksgiving is next week and boy do we have something to be extra thankful for this year! I thank God daily for my sweet little boy and my sweet big boy!

Gavin Warren Hawkins

2010-11-07T08:13:00.003-06:00

I would like to introduce my beautiful son, Gavin Hawkins. He was born on 10-26-2010 at 8:10pm, and weighed 7lbs 14.6oz and was 20.5" long. He is the most beautiful thing I have ever laid my eyes on. Talk about love at first sight!

My birth story:
I went in to the hospital at 4:45am on 10-26. I was having contractions about 5 min's apart but never really felt them (the pain was not bad at all). They put me on pitocin and I started contracting even more immediately! About every 3 mins, then 2 min's then 1 min! They turned off the pitocin so we could give the baby a break. I was at 3cm and effaced. Jeff and I hung out for awhile watching TV, playing on computer and talking. My in laws were coming to the hospital in a few hours to hang out as well! I was excited! Then I was checked again a couple hours later and was still at a 3 so my Dr came in and broke my water. What an odd sensation that was! I immediately started feeling contractions (wow! hello!) so the nurse (who was Empress to start my morning until 7am, then Cathy came in after both were AMAZING!!) gave me something to help dull the pain. Not sure what that stuff was, but it rocked! After a bit that wore off and I was ready for my epi. I was SO scared but knew that I could not labor all day without it. So my nurse grabbed the lady and she came in to give it to me. Now, all along I was scared (TERRI FED) of the epi NEEDLE. I got the first shot in the back and thought wow that was not too bad! Then I just felt pressure of the BIG needle. I was so excited that it didnt hurt I cried tears of joy and felt dumb for getting so upset before I got it (I cried like a baby) Then. THEN! They put the catheder down my back and holy hell did THAT hurt. I screamed and busted in tears. That hurt so darn bad and I had no idea to expect that. The pain only lasted a second then I could feel the epi starting to work. It was great. So all in all, I would totally do it again. I labored for another couple hours before getting checked and was only at a 4cm. My epi started wearing off around 1 so I asked for a topper and the anesthesiologist was backed up. She had about 5 C-sections in front of me and 2 girls laboring. So I waited and waited. My MIL, April was there rubbing my back and neck and holding my hand while i cried and shook. She was so sweet and I was so glad she was there! Finally at 4pm I was in so much pain I was shaking and crying, trying to breathe and the contractions were coming about every 2-3 min's HARD. I was still not on pitocin since it worked a little too well on me! My poor husband was so upset he was almost in tears. I finally called my nurse in and told her I couldnt take it any longer and felt like I kinda needed to push a little. and she saw how stressed I was, the shaking, crying, and I had a slight fever so she grabbed the lady and got me my topper. PURE GLORY. The shakes stopped and I could concentrate once again. The nurse decided to check me to see the progress and she said well, you are 9cm! Looks like you will have this baby here really soon! After talking to my Dr they decided to let me labor for a bit longer to bring the baby down some more. At a few min's to 6pm my Dr came in and said its go time! Lets get started! So I started pushing and pushing. My nurse Cathy was supp to leave at 7pm but she wanted to stay and deliver Gavin. it was so sweet and I was SO happy she did. Then Empress came back on shift and helped me push too! My two favorite nurses! YAY! I was doing so well and the baby was coming down nicely and quickly. He stalled a little but I kept pushing, breathing, eating ice chips, telling Jeff to breathe (he was pushing with me :) haha!) and after 2.5 hours of pushing my sweet bean was finally ready to meet us. He shot out and my Dr grabbed him (then he pooped and peed on her!!) Jeff and I started crying after seeing his face! I couldnt stop. The tears were coming and I couldnt see or breathe really! They put Gavin on my chest and he had his eyes wide open and just looking right at me. I said Hi Gavin, I am your Mommy :) he didnt cry either! He just made some cute little squeaks and squeals. The nurses came and cleaned him up, Jeff cut the cord, Dr finished me up, and we started taking some pictures. My Dr was amazing. She was so patient, helpful, guided me, and was soothing the entire time. I love that lady!! After Gavin and myself was all done I started breastfeeding Gavin. He latched right on and started eating! Talk about amazing. The nurses and my Dr stunned and excited. After that, my in-laws and best friend Michelle came into the room to meet Gavin. Talk about lots of tears! It was truly the happiest moment of my life. My husband was so sweet and good helping me. He was holding my legs, pushing my back up, looking and Gavin, talking me through the pushing, and what got me to push those last few times (when I was exhausted seeing double and barely breathing!) was him putting his sweet face to mine and whispering come on baby you can do this! Evict Gavin and lets meet him!! :) I had lots of angels that day in the room with me. Some you could see (my husband, Dr and nurses) and some that you could not see. I thank God everyday for my wonderful gifts in life!

My wonderful Husband

2010-10-16T15:23:00.003-05:00

I know I write on here a lot about family and how great Jeff is, but this morning as I was laying awake on the couch at 4am watching him sleep next to me (because I couldnt sleep in the bed any longer!) I got to thinking how much I wanted to post this today. I really do have the sweetest and most loving husband in the world. He treats me like a Queen, loves me unconditionally, takes all the shit I give him and returns it well :) and is going to be the best Father to Gavin. I am so lucky to have him in my life. Blessed, really. So today I want to thank you Jeff for being such a wonderful man. Thank you for all the foot rubs, back rubs, cooking dinner when I refuse to get off the couch (or ordering pizza!) listening to me moan and groan, cleaning the house when I refuse to get off the couch, wiping my tears, listening to my fears and dreams, helping me in and out of the car, tying my shoes, cleaning the cat litter!! having great opinions on shoes ;) rubbing my belly and talking to Gavin, singing to my belly when Gavin is kicking up a storm, helping me in and out of bed or to the bathroom a hundred times each night, sleeping on the couch with me when I cant sleep in bed any longer, waking up at 3am and watching TV until I fall back asleep (if that happens!) and for loving me for me. There are a million more things I love about you, but my fingers are a little swollen right now so I should probably stop typing. That and get ready to go out for our last date together as a couple without a baby! I love you Jeffrey Norman Hawkins! Gavin and I are SO lucky to have you!!!

PS: I really hope Gavin has your cute dimples!! I love them!

39 weeks

2010-10-16T15:17:00.003-05:00

Wow. Its been 39 weeks already. Next week I will be full term! I am so ready to meet my little sweetie, but want him to come on his own time. I hope he does decide to come early, but I know he is nice and cozy so its ok :) My last Dr appt I was 2cm dialated and 80% effaced. I go back on Tuesday and hope for some more progress. I worked a half day last Tuesday and just felt really sore and tired all week. I layed on the couch, took walks, and just relaxed. Im trying to get as much of that done as possible before Gavin arrives! My In-laws, Warren & April are heading our way next week and I am really excited! April and I have plans to cook together and do some last min shopping. Jeff and Warren have chores to do around the house ;)

Here is the latest and greatest picture of me! Enjoy!

Until next time (and hopefully blogging about Gavin's arrival!)

37weeks, 5 days

2010-10-07T15:39:00.002-05:00

Well, Im almost 2 weeks from my EDD! Gavin is quite the little tease/trickster just like his Daddy. Monday I went into work and felt fine. Towards the early afternoon my back started hurting, so I took my friends dog, Miley, for a walk to stretch my back. I guess I should say Miley took me for a walk :) Anyway half way through the walk I noticed that I was having those darn BH contractions again so I came back inside and drank some water. Then cramping and nausea set in and I knew something was wrong so I left work to go home and lay down. My friend Tillie thought I was in labor and I thought no way, but I'll call the Dr to make sure. So of course Tillie was right and they told me to go into labor & delivery to get checked out. Sure enough after getting checked in, got a room, dressed up (or down i should say) and hooked up I was having strong contractions 3-4 min's apart! I was only a half centimeter dilated but 75% effaced! Thats quite a lot of progress in less than a week! After a few hours and a couple checks, Gavin decided he was just teasing us so we got sent home to labor some more. I stayed home the next day from work to rest and had another Dr appt on Wednesday. I am now 80% effaced and 2cm dilated!! Whooo hoooo! Progress! Here's to hoping we get to meet Gavin soon! He just has to wait for his Gma & Gpa Hawkins to get here first! :)

Total Weight Gain: 20 pounds. I guess the nightly cookies and milk have put me up a little :)

Maternity Clothes: All my clothes are maternity!

Not for much longer hopefully!

Stretch Marks: None! The one on my hip has disappeared. Thank Goodness!

Best Moment this Week: Hmmm....I guess THINKING maybe we were going to meet Gavin on Monday, but getting sent home. Although it was kinda neat to be in the hospital and experience it and to know what to expect the next time we are in.

Movement: Slowing down a little bit. He just kinda rolls around and sticks his chunky butt out :)

Labor Signs: BH contractions are daily and of course, the Monday night real ones! Plus I am 2cm dilated and 80% effaced. WOW!

Belly Button Innie or Outtie: Innie

What are You Looking Forward to this Week: My last Texans game on Sunday. I hope they win again! My in laws will be here next week too :)

Full Term! 37 weeks!

2010-10-01T10:22:00.002-05:00

Ok Gavin! Feel free to come anytime little guy! You are full term and I cant wait to meet your sweet face! Oh, feel free to drop too. My ribs are killing me and do not like to feel your little butt in them anymore :)

I am officially swelling daily. At night when I get home my feet are puffy and im exahausted. I kick my feet up and my sweet husband does the cooking, cleaning, ect for me. I could really get used to this royal treatment!! Jeff really has been so great - I cant wait to see him hold our sweet Bean here soon.

My in-laws are coming down in a couple weeks! I cant wait to see them!! That also means I start maternity leave then! I wont be going back until the second week in January when Gavin starts school. Im sure that time is going to FLY by, unfortunatly. I cant wait to take daily walks with our family

36 weeks update

2010-09-24T11:01:00.000-05:00

Went to the Dr on Wednesday to find out that Gavin is up nice and high :) I was just having some BH contractions! He still needs to cook for a couple weeks - but Dr could feel his head and said I was getting softer! YAY for some progress!!!

35 weeks, 3 days

2010-09-21T12:21:00.001-05:00

I have been having some BH contractions today - some are close together some are far apart..I called my Dr and just waiting to hear back from them to see what they think. Im sure they will say go lay down and drink some water! I'll be sure to update when I know something more!

35/35 (on Saturday)

2010-09-16T10:13:00.004-05:00

Me @ the Texans game on Sunday! Spartans won on Saturday so I was still celebrating :)

For some strange reason I have been REALLY looking forward to my 35/35. If you dont know what 35/35 stands for, it means I am in my 35 week of pregnancy and have 35 days to go to meet Gavin :)

The last couple of weeks have been hard...I am tired in the evenings and wake up every hour or two to go to the bathroom. This whole peeing all the time thing is getting old! Gavin has def. dropped and that is a good thing! His feet are not in my ribs as much anymore, however now he is head butting me LOW and his hiccups come daily and feel like they are in my butt sometimes! haha! I gained a couple pounds at my last Dr appt over a three week time, but he is getting bigger and weighs about 5.5 pounds right now. My legs are carrying a lot of weight! I am looking forward to seeing my toes. I can see just the tip of them right now. Im sure by next week I will not be able to see them at all!

Jeff and I's anniversary is next weekend :) We are spending Saturday together doing who knows what (dinner I know of!) and maybe go to the museum and shopping? Sunday is the Texans game vs. The Cowgirls. I hope he beat them again just like we did in pre-season!! Last weekends game against The Colts was AMAZING!! We beat the hell of those ponies! The stadium was so loud and everyone was SO excited the whole game. Probably one of the best games I have been too!!

How Far Along: 34 weeks, 5 days

Total Weight Gain: 14 pounds. My Dr said she is SO proud of me! YAY!

Maternity Clothes: All my clothes are maternity!

Stretch Marks: None! The one on my hip has disappeared. Thank Goodness!

Best Moment this Week: Getting a sweet gift in the mail from my friend Melissa! Gavin is going to love his Auntie in Indiana, event though she is a Colts fan :)

Movement: Amazing. The movement is crazy!! He plays all day long and sleeps all night. This I am grateful for and hope he continues this behavior after birth! He gets the hiccups 2x a day too!
Food Cravings: None really - I get full fast and hungry often.

Labor Signs: No real signs...a few BH contractions though

Belly Button Innie or Outtie: Innie

What are You Looking Forward to this Week: Hitting my 35/35 on Saturday and having a relaxing weekend :)

33 weeks, 4 days

2010-09-08T14:15:00.004-05:00

Almost 34 week bump. Looks really big! I also dyed my hair back to its natural color :)

Looking in from the door

Book shelf. The vase in the middle has G on it from Aunt Tillie and has little mini animals!

Changing table & dresser. I love the mirror!!

Crib, rocking chair, hanging mesh toy holder & swing!

Thought I would show off Gavin's room! We finished it up over the weekend. I know I am bias, but I think it looks SO GOOD!! All we are missing is the curtains (been on back order for 2 months!) and they are coming in this week sometime. YAY!

How Far Along: 33 weeks, 4 days

Total Weight Gain: 12 pounds. I go to the Dr tomorrow and I am sure I have gained a few more! EEKS! We'll see :)

Maternity Clothes: All my clothes are maternity!

Stretch Marks: None! The one on my hip has disappeared. Thank Goodness!

Best Moment this Week: Finishing up his room!

Movement: My little man must be practicing to win the Olympics in the year...whatever. He is kicking, playing, punching, rolling, and doing all kinds of moves ALL the time. I love it, but my ribs have been really sore lately. I hope he drops soon. I need (and my ribs!) a break!

Food Cravings: None. Well, plumcots I guess. They are peak season right now and are yummy but I dont really CRAVE them.

Labor Signs: No real signs...a few BH contractions though

Belly Button Innie or Outtie: Innie

What are You Looking Forward to this Week: Texans game on Sunday!

Its been awhile...

2010-09-03T10:19:00.002-05:00

I have not blogged for a couple of weeks - been a little tired and sore! Gavin feels like he weighs 255 pounds and is going to just BURST out of my belly any day now. As much as I would like him to cook to 37 weeks, I am most def ready for him to come out and me get back to my (somewhat) skinny self again! Only a few more weeks until I get to meet my sweet little boy though!

My friends Tillie and Michelle threw me a beautiful baby shower a couple weeks ago! I do not have the pictures yet, but will def. post them when I get them! It was such a wonderful day and we had lots of friends come out and celebrate my sweet son. We received so many nice gifts and I was VERY overwhelmed! I cried at the end of the shower and cried more when I got home and saw everything in my living room. Its so mind blowing knowing we have such great friends that really care about Jeff, myself, and Gavin!

My birthday was last weekend. I turned 27 - whooo hoooo? I guess??? Not a big year or celebration this year but we did have lots of fun. Friday was a fantasy football draft, Saturday we went to the Texans first home game (and they won!!) Sunday we relaxed and cooked up some yummy food. Jeff bought me a beautiful ring and my sweet mother in law April and sister in law Karrie called and sang Happy Birthday to me! I havent had someone sing to me in YEARS!

I'll update next week on my stats - nothing has changed from a couple weeks ago. No weight gain, no cravings, and still VERY excited to meet Mr. Gavin :)

30 weeks, 4 days

2010-08-18T09:50:00.003-05:00

The weeks are flying by faster and faster! The picture above is a sneek peek of Gavin's room. There are still a few more things to add and decorate, but you get the picture :) Enjoy!

How Far Along: 30 weeks, 4 days

Total Weight Gain: 12 pounds. I didnt gain any weight in the past two weeks. Dr. said that is fine and i am doing really well! YAY!

Maternity Clothes: All my clothes are maternity!

Stretch Marks: Still just the one on my hip

Best Moment this Week: Seeing Gavin on his ultrasound. He is the most handsome, sweet little man I have ever seen. I can not wait to pinch his cheeks and give him all of my love!

Movement: He is currently playing in my belly. He is head down (yay!) and his little feet are kicking my ribs (booo)

Food Cravings: Eggs. Like scrambled eggs and toast. YUMMY!

Labor Signs: None

Belly Button Innie or Outtie: Innie

What are You Looking Forward to this Week: My shower is on Saturday! Cant wait!!! :)

Gavin's 3D ultrasound

2010-08-16T11:13:00.002-05:00

This past weekend Jeff and I went to see our sweet baby on 3D ultrasound. It was amazing beyond words. I cried the whole time! Gavin is the most handsome, sweetest, CHUNKIEST, amazing little thing I have ever seen before. I can't wait another 7-10 weeks to meet him! I am in LOVE!

Look at those CHEEKS! OMG!

29 weeks, 4 days

2010-08-11T14:17:00.003-05:00

How Far Along: 29 weeks, 4 days

Total Weight Gain: 12 pounds

Maternity Clothes: Im wearing mostly dresses or skirts. I hate the way the capri jeans or shorts feel on my belly this week. The looser the better!

Stretch Marks: Still just the one on my hip

Best Moment this Week: Getting Gavin's stroller and wall art! I love them both so much!

Movement: He has really started getting less active during the day and more active at night. Jeff and I sit and watch him roll across my belly after dinner each night! I love it! My little alien...

Food Cravings: Sweets...its getting worse too. I bought a single peice of cake at HEB on Sunday and ate it all by Monday. I was mad at myself for not getting a WHOLE cake, but proud I only bought a single peice at the same time! haha!

Labor Signs: None

Belly Button Innie or Outtie: Innie

What are You Looking Forward to this Week: Getting Gavin's 3D ultrasound done on Saturday!! I am so excited I can hardly contain myself!

Belly Shot

2010-08-05T12:43:00.004-05:00

Here is an almost 29 week belly and a picture of our new Bumbleride Flyer stroller! Its fabulous and I cant wait to push my little chunky little monkey around in it! :)

28 weeks, 4 days

2010-08-04T12:24:00.002-05:00

How Far Along: 28 weeks, 4 days

Total Weight Gain: 12 pounds so far. My Dr said I am doing really well. Im just glad its all belly for me! I said I only wanted to gain 20 pounds for this pregnancy. So far I am right on track. Lets just hope the next 11 weeks I only gain a pound a week!

Maternity Clothes: A friend gave me a HUGE box of maternity clothes last night! I had so much fun 'shopping' and found some really cute stuff! YAY!

Stretch Marks: Still just the one on my hip

Best Moment this Week: Finishing putting the circles on the wall in Gavin's room, arranging the furniture, and getting in my GR8X diaper bag! I bought this one mainly for Jeff. Its black and green and he will still look cool carrying it. If I do not get my purse like bag from Skip Hop then I will still be ok with carrying this! It is HUGE and has great features!

Movement: The chunk has found a new favorite spot to put his little fingers or toes - IN MY RIBS! I have to push him down and out of them about 5-6 times a day. He gets all wiggly after and starts moving around :) I love feeling his alien like body move about!

Food Cravings: Chocolate chip cookies. I really need to watch that sweet tooth of mine... Too bad I cant crave veggies!

Labor Signs: None

Belly Button Innie or Outtie: Innie

What are You Looking Forward to this Week: Relaxing this weekend, a friends bridal shower, and floating my large body in the pool!

28 week belly

2010-07-30T11:40:00.002-05:00

Jeff and I bought this for the bean last weekend!! OMG so cute! The pumpkin is on the butt of the pants! I cant wait to pat Gavin's little fat butt!!!

Here is the big belly in all its glory. I will not be posting anymore belly pics to facebook. I feel like I am at the point where its big enough to still be KINDA cute, but too big to post of facebook :) You lucky little blog readers you ;) Here you go!

27wks, 4 days

2010-07-28T10:11:00.003-05:00

So I totally forgot I was week 27. I have been thinking this whole time I was still 26 weeks. Hello prego brain! haha!

How Far Along: 27 weeks, 4 days

Total Weight Gain: 10 pounds so far! Not too bad! I get weighed again next week. After four cupcakes from Crave this week I might be up some more :)

Maternity Clothes: bottoms are all maternity, dresses are a mix, and tops are all maternity. I have been buying more dresses b/c they are the only comfy things besides my stretchy tops and HUGE pj's :)

Stretch Marks: Still just the one on my hip

Best Moment this Week: Buying the cute pack and play and setting it up! Its the Little Hoot one from Graco. Its so freaking CUTE!

Movement: Last night he was on the move for about 2 hours straight! Little man knows he is about to be out of room so is taking full advantage of it!

Food Cravings: Cupcakes...

Labor Signs: None

Belly Button Innie or Outtie: Innie

What are You Looking Forward to this Week: Getting the border put up in his room. Also a nice weekend out with friends! Astros game, going away party, and a friends baby shower!

Updates!

2010-07-20T16:37:00.004-05:00

Jeff & I fishing!

Jamie and I at dinner

25 week BUMP!

Getting ready to head out to dinner

St. Louis zoo - it was SO hot that day!

I wanted to post some pictures from Jeff and I's recent vacation (couple weeks ago) It was fun, but its always great to come home to your own bed and of course to see our kitties. I think Gavin was glad to be home to because he was not very active with all the traveling. As soon as we got home he started up kicking and playing around! :)

We flew into St. Louis to spend a day seeing the city. We went to the zoo, had a nice lunch, and met up with my friend Jamie ,who I used to work with here in Houston- that now lives in St. Louis, for dinner. We had a GREAT night! The next day we took a train to Springfield, IL where my grandparents picked us up. We spent 2 more days with them before heading to Troy, OH where Jeff's parents live. We spent two FABULOUS days with them before reluctantly going back to IL. I was really enjoying having my sweet MIL rub my belly and take me to dairy queen, Frickers, Hinders, and La Fiesta. Oh and Bob Evans and some other breakfast place :) YUM! We spent another 2 days in IL before heading back to St. Louis via train. We spent 2 days there visiting the arch, shopping, eating, and relaxing. Our hotel room at the Westin was awesome. Had a separate bath tub, double shower, and great view of the arch. We really enjoyed staying there and will stay there if we go back! We came home and spent the last few days relaxing before back to work. We painted Gavin's room! It looks SO good! I don't want to post pictures until it is complete. We have to put up the wall art and re-arrange the furniture, then I will put up pictures! SO CUTE!!

I also had a Dr appt today. I had to go in at 8:30am to take the glucose test. It was NOT bad at all. The stuff went down fast and tasted like Hawaiian punch. Jeff even cheered me on while drinking by saying chug chug chug!! haha! Then we went to visit with my Dr and she said I have a bladder infection :( but gave me some meds to clear it up. She also said we have a very big baby. Gavin was measuring 29.5 weeks - 3.5 weeks big. That scares me a little! I was hoping for a little petite baby with an easy delivery. We shall see if that happens :) Hopefully she will induce me at 37 weeks (full term) and we can meet this little chunkster a couple weeks early! I would love that!

Until next time...

Stats

2010-07-19T15:12:00.003-05:00

YAY! I can still see my feet :)

How Far Along: 26 weeks!

Total Weight Gain: 7 pounds at my last appointment - new weight tomorrow!

Maternity Clothes: bottoms are all maternity, dresses are a mix, and tops are all maternity. I have been buying more dresses b/c they are the only comfy things besides my stretchy tops and HUGE pj's :)

Stretch Marks: Still just the one on my hip

Best Moment this Week: Getting Gavin's room painted! It looks SO GOOD!

Movement: He has been moving around like a wild man! I love it! He gets really active in the early morning and late evening.

Food Cravings: Breakfast foods. Toast, cereal, pancakes, waffles...

Labor Signs: Had a couple Braxton Hicks here...nothing otherwise. Still early

Belly Button Innie or Outtie: Innie

What are You Looking Forward to this Week: Getting my glucose test over with!

24 Weeks! (Well, almost)

2010-06-30T14:34:00.003-05:00

The bean is currently kicking and doing some flips and rolls! He said to tell you all hi :)

The week is FLYING by and that makes me very happy because that means vacation is just around the corner! Jeff and I are very excited to go see both of our families and have a fun relaxing time. I'll be sure and update and post pictures when we are back! Until then! Happy 4th of July!!

Total weight gain/loss: Still holding steady at 5 pounds. I feel like I have gained 20 pounds with how bad my back and right hip hurts!

Maternity clothes: Bought a couple more stretchy tops and shorts this weekend. Its just too darn hot to wear anything really. Although a huge prego lady might not look very attractive running around the streets of Houston :)

Stretch marks?: Found one on my hip :*(

Best moment this week: Getting to see my Bean last week! He was so cute waving and sucking his little thumb. He even showed me how he likes to flip and roll around! Nothing much has happened this week (moment wise!)

Food cravings: SoBe lifewater! Yummyberry pomegranate is the best! Peaches too. Ez mac and Munster cheese. Also had my first 'late night craving' for a couple of tacos! My sweet hubby ran out to get them for me at 11pm! What a nice guy ;)

Gender: BOY!!!!!!!!!

What I miss: Walking normal. The sciatic nerve on my right side has me laying and walking funny because it hurts so bad :*(

Milestones: My son is in the 86th percentile! BIG BOY!

Grounded!

2010-06-25T09:55:00.002-05:00

Yesterday we had a little scare. On Wednesday night while Jeff and I were walking through the grocery store I had a little side cramp. Felt like I just tried to run and was winded and cramping. It went away after a few min's and I thought nothing of then. Well, Thursday morning after having breakfast and getting ready for work I noticed I had the same cramp but on my right side this time. I left for work and got a mile down the road and could not drive! It hurt SO bad I pulled over and Jeff came and picked me up. We came home, called the Dr and they told us to come in right away. After sitting in traffic (Houston traffic SUCKS!) we get to the Dr's office and they saw me pretty much right away. My Dr had an emergency C section yesterday and had to cancel her afternoon appts. She was TRIPLE booked yesterday and still got me in, in under an hour. She rocks! After she took a look and listened to Gavin's heart she said he was most def. fine but was a little worried I had a kidney infection. She sent me over to the hospital next door and had an ultrasound scheduled to look at all my insides. Let me tell you how great the hospital is. The waiting room had a coffee/tea/juice bar, snacks, big screen tv's everywhere, a buzzer to tell us when its our turn (they were even early getting me in!) and had someone come greet us to take us back. Like a hostess! After finance and paperwork, they took me back and jeff waited in a nice room for me while I went back to the ladies waiting room. There was another coffee/tea/juice area, snacks, tv, lockers, ect. The tech came and got me and we got down to business. She was so friendly and answered all 10,000 of my questions. She showed me Gavin and took lots of pictures and put them all on a CD for me as well. I loved seeing him playing and flipping around. He is really going to be a cutie pie! Turns out all is well with Mommy and Baby Hawkins. He was sitting on my siatiac nerve (im sure I spelled that wrong!) and Dr said for me to take it easy and keep my feet up. He gave us quite a scare yesterday and I have decided he grounded for a week when he arrives! :)

22wks, 4 days

2010-06-23T15:14:00.002-05:00

We are moving right along! Little (or should I say BIG) Gavin is growing and getting bigger everyday. Yesterday we went to the Dr for a check up and she said he is in the 86th percentile! She said if he looks like he is going to be over 8 or 9 pounds she will evict him early!! This scares me and makes me happy at the same time. I sure hope he is not too big that I cant delivery and at the same time, I hope he comes early so I can kiss his little face!! We shall see!

I saw I have 2 followers I do not know who they are! Leave me a comment and I'll follow your blog too :) Im thinking it might be my October bumpies!

Hope you are all well and have a fabulous week! We are going on vacation in another week and I CANT WAIT!!!

Total weight gain/loss: I have gained a total of 5 pounds. I just ate a HUGE lunch before I went to the Dr so maybe only 4. Still doing very well according to my Dr :)

Maternity clothes: I am really into wearing dresses. Its so hot here in Houston that anything light and cotten is working the best. Bought a couple new dresses last week and I LOVE them!

Stretch marks?: Found one on my hip :*(

Best moment this week: Having someone tell me over the weekend how not fat I looked. Guess thats a good moment? She seemed pretty upset that I was (quote) not fat yet.

Food cravings: SoBe lifewater! Yummyberry pomagrante is the best! Peaches too.

Gender: BOY!!!!!!!!!

What I miss: Sleeping on my tummy. Rolling over in bed. Getting out of bed with out huffing and puffing.

Milestones: My son is in the 86th percentile! BIG BOY!

Belly shot

2010-06-16T15:35:00.002-05:00

I thought I would post this since its been a couple weeks!

Getting bigger every week!!

21weeks, 4 days

2010-06-16T09:33:00.002-05:00

Time is flying by!! Its hard to believe that in 18 weeks, Gavin will be here. Unless he is early or late - I am hoping early so I can see his little face!

Jeff and I are trying to book our tickets for a vacation here soon. We just need to set a date and get it on the books. I am in need of a getaway! The beach would be ideal, but I think we are going to visit family. Maybe we can plan a beach trip later in the summer :)

Here are my newest stats!

Total weight gain/loss: Got on the scale this morning and I was down 2 pounds. I guess no gain or loss so far.

Maternity clothes: I need to go shopping! I am tired of wearing the same stuff over and over...

Stretch marks?: Found one on my hip :*(

Best moment this week: Getting Gavin's bedding in and getting his room together. We still need to pick paint colors.

Food cravings: gummy bears!

Gender: BOY!!!!!!!!!

What I miss: Sleeping through the night without needing to pee 1 or 2 times

Milestones: Over halfway baked!

20 week, 3 day ultrasound

2010-06-09T16:30:00.004-05:00

Yesterday Jeff and I went to the Dr to see Gavin and get his measurements! All looks good and we have a very healthy active little baby! He waved, blew kisses (not really, but a mommy can dream!) and did say hi by opening his little mouth! Here are some pictures!

After our appt we went and looked into some school/daycare options. We found one school for infants and up and we REALLY loved it. It was a school, not daycare which makes me happy. AND they have a web cam i can watch little G all day long :) The other option is a private sitter and I can work PT. We'll see what happens here in the near future! Hopefully the part time option is what I decide, but you never know. I really love my job and dont want to quit. I wish I could bring in Gav to work and have the best of both worlds, but ya know...

Jeff started his P90X workout and really likes it! He does very well and I am SO proud of him! He started blogging and you can go check it out: www.jeffhawkins10.blogspot.com Be sure to say hi and what a great job he is doing :)

Until next time...

19 week, 5 day belly

2010-06-03T11:51:00.003-05:00

My my how I have grown! Im comparing my 13 week belly to my 19 week belly!!!

19 weeks!

2010-06-01T11:17:00.002-05:00

I am so happy to say I am 19 weeks pregnant! Almost half way there!! Unless Gavin comes early of course :) For some reason - I have a feeling that little guy is going to come early. He is such a little kicker and loves to move and bounce around. In fact, he is bouncing around as I type :)

I hope you all had a wonderful Memorial Day weekend! Jeff and I were going to spend the weekend in NOLA, but decided a weekend at home would be really relaxing. We went to dinner Friday night and went to Lowes to buy a new grill. So of course, we grilled all weekend. Made hamburgers, steaks, corn on the cobb, and veggies. I also made fried chicken from the Pioneer Womans cookbook. WOW. I think I made the kernel from KFC jealous! SO GOOD!!

Next Tuesday I have my 20 week appt! I will get to see my sweet little man and get all the measurements taken. I hope he cooperates and lets Dr. L get all that she needs! I love seeing his little self on the screen bouncing around! I'll be sure to post the pictures next week.

We ended up buying the Caden Lane bedding! I am SO excited and cant wait to get it and start decorating my little man's bedroom :) He is going to be SO precious!!!

Below are my 19 week stats. I will upload a picture tomorrow or Thurs. Happy week to you all!

Total weight gain/loss: I am pretty sure I have put on a couple pounds. We shall see in 2 weeks at my next appt!

Maternity clothes: Need some PJ's. Mine are all a little to small!

Stretch marks?: Found one on my hip :*( I really need to get some cream and lotions this week.

Best moment this week: Buying Gavin's bedding!!!!

Food cravings: Lemonade

Gender: BOY!!!!!!!!!

What I miss: Boozing this holiday weekend while grilling. Sounds lame, but last year we had SO fun!

Milestones: We are having a little boy. The Hawkins name will continue!!!

Bedding!

2010-05-25T13:19:00.005-05:00

I think I have finally found Gavin's bedding! It is called Hudson by http://cadenlane.com. (Pictures are from their website - thank you CL!) I just LOVE the soft colors and circles. Looks very modern and boyish - but not too baby like. I want something Gavin can grow into. I am thinking some dark brown curtains with a very light green sheer curtain under (more like a single panel). As far as the paint goes - this is where I am clueless! We have a chair rail in his room so Jeff wants to paint the bottom half blue and the top half green. I do not think those two colors on top of each other will look good. I think a very light taupe on bottom and either blue or green on top. I would love to hear your thoughts!

2010-05-25T11:10:00.002-05:00

I am updating my weekly stats- not much change since last week (other than a pound or two) I am hungry ALL the time now! Gavin is still kicking away and he has found a comfy spot - right on my nerve! My back has been hurting pretty bad the last couple of days. Hopefully he finds a new spot...and FAST! Looking forward to Memorial Day weekend and spending time with Jeff. Im going to make The Pioneer Womans chicken dinner on Monday to celebrate!

Until next time...

Ashley & Gavin :)

Total weight gain/loss: I am pretty sure I have put on a couple pounds. We shall see in 2 weeks at my next appt!

Maternity clothes: Love them.

Stretch marks?: None!

Best moment this week: Receiving a package from my grandparents with cute stuff for Gavin!

Food cravings: Lemonade

Gender: BOY!!!!!!!!!

What I miss: Sleeping on my tummy

Milestones: We are having a little boy. The Hawkins name will continue!!!

17 week Stats

2010-05-19T16:44:00.001-05:00

Total weight gain/loss: 0 whooo hoooo! Hard to believe with such a baby belly!

Maternity clothes: Love them.

Stretch marks?: None!

Best moment this week: Someone telling me my jugs were bigger than my belly! ha!

Food cravings: Lemonade

Gender: BOY!!!!!!!!!

What I miss: Staying up past 11pm!

Milestones: We are having a little boy. The Hawkins name will continue!!!

17wks, 4 days

2010-05-19T16:42:00.002-05:00

Holy Belly!!!

It's a.....

2010-05-12T11:48:00.005-05:00

BOY!!!!!!!!!! Yesterday Jeff and I found out we are having a little boy! Gavin Roger-Warren Hawkins will make his debut in October and we could not be more excited!! Now comes the fun part - shopping and decorating!!! Gavin was very excited to show off his boy parts yesterday. The tech called him a little flasher and said he had very long legs and a nice shaped head ( i thought this was very funny!)

Our next appt is June 8th. We already know its a boy so we get another ultrasound, hear the heartbeat, and take some measurements to make sure he is growing all nice and healthy!

I have to say - I have never been so in love with my husband as I was yesterday at this appt. As soon as the tech said You are having a boy I screamed yay an Jeff started tearing up. He is such a wonderful man and is going to be the best Daddy in the world! I cant wait to see those first few moment when Jeff holds our son! SON! Its amazing!

Total weight gain/loss: Still have not gained a pound! YAY!

Maternity clothes: Still in them! Who knew Target had such cute stuff?

Stretch marks?: None!

Best moment this week: Finding out we are having a little boy!

Food cravings: Spicy spicy spicy! This baby loves his spicy food like Daddy!

Gender: BOY!!!!!!!!!

What I miss: My tan! Need to get some sun this weekend!

Milestones: We are having a little boy. The Hawkins name will continue!!!

My first Mothers Day

2010-05-10T09:12:00.004-05:00

I really do believe I have the worlds sweetest husband. Friday I get home and the house is all clean and picked up. That alone makes him the worlds greatest hubby! He was so excited to give me the little gifts he bought me for Mothers Day and could not wait until Sunday - of course I was TOTALLY ok with this :)

This necklace is from James Avery - I love this store. He said it reminded him of the baby's heart inside me :) I know, I know - and yes I cried!

He also got me a couple of books - I can't wait to finish this one! I have been having a hard time finding any maternity clothes that I really like - he is too good!

Jeff also got me a very sweet card from The Bean, all the cats & fish and from him of course.

Saturday Jeff built the crib and arranged the room a little for me. That evening we went to dinner at Guadalajara downtown (the place is AMAZING!!!) and saw a Ben Folds in concert after. He was just there with his piano and was the best performance so far by him!

I love my husband so much! Thank you babe for the best weekend!

Tomorrow we find out if The Bean is a boy or girl!!!!!! Update on Wednesday! Stay tuned... :):)

Love,

The Hawkins

15wk4days

2010-05-05T09:40:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I had a Dr's appt and everything went well as expected! The Bean's heartbeat was 157BPM and sounded just beautiful. That sound never gets old each time we hear it and of course, it brings tears to my eyes!

Total weight gain/loss: I was down at the visit yesterday from 5 weeks ago! Just a few pounds but I am still surprised! Guess all those chicken sammies have not caught up with me. YET!

Maternity clothes: Bought some new stuff online this week and cant wait to get it!

Stretch marks?: None!

Best moment this week: Hearing that sweet heartbeat :)

Food cravings: Ice tea w/lots of lemon

Gender: We find out on May 11th :)

What I miss: Not being able to celebrate Cinco De Mayo w/a Dos XX tonight!

Milestones: Knowing that my next Dr. appt is the half way point!!!

15 week belly

2010-04-30T11:01:00.000-05:00

Holy belly!

14 Week Stats

2010-04-29T12:35:00.002-05:00

Total weight gain/loss: Got on the scale last night and it said +2. Guess thats not too bad for 14 weeks along right? RIGHT?! :)

Maternity clothes: Loving my new clothes I bought. I feel so much more comfy and relaxed.

Stretch marks?: None!

Best moment this week: Having someone tell me, "Wow you look great for 14 weeks!"

Food cravings: Spicy chicken sammies from Mickey D's. Oh, and anything with lemon. STILL the same from last week

Gender: Ultrasound tech said boy 2 weeks ago and I am still feeling its a boy!

What I miss: Beer and hot dog at the baseball game when we were there Tuesday...

Milestones: 104 days in! This is exciting!

13 week Stats

2010-04-21T11:17:00.003-05:00

WOW! I guess I did not realize I was showing this much until I saw the pics!

Total weight gain/loss: 0 thank goodness!

Maternity clothes: Broke down and bought a couple pairs of pants and another shirt. Feels SO good to be comfy! ha!

Stretch marks?: None!

Best moment this week: Scheduled the gender ultrasound for May 11th!!!!! So excited!

Food cravings: Spicy chicken sammies from Mickey D's. Oh, and anything with lemon. STILL the same from last week

Gender: Ultrasound tech said boy last week and I am still feeling its a boy!

What I miss: My nice skin :(

Milestones: Bought a BOB stroller, the car seat, Jeep carrier, and a couple play toys! The Bean is spoiled already!

Hello 2nd Trimester!

2010-04-19T14:31:00.002-05:00

Its so hard to believe I am already 13 weeks along (and a few days) and starting my second trimester! Time flies! I'll be having this baby in no time!

I really do not have any new updates... still eating good, no weight gain, healthy baby, and happy Mommy! Over the weekend Jeff and I went shopping. We bought the Bean a BOB jogging stroller, Graco infant car seat, Jeep infant carrier sling thing, and a play area! This Bean is never going to bored THATS for sure!

Went and watched Jeff play hockey this weekend in Sugar Land! Unfortunately his team did not win, but it sure was nice going to see him play. I have not been to a game in SO long!

Next week I have my 14 week appt! Looking forward to hearing the Bean's heartbeat again and maybe, just maybe seeing a new little picture but I doubt it. 2 weeks from then I will have the diabetes test done THEN!!!!!!! find out if its a baby girl or baby boy! Still thinking its a boy but we shall see!

Until next time,
Love Ash & The Bean

Emotional Day

2010-04-14T10:15:00.003-05:00

Hi Mom & Dad! Im just kickin' back!

See you in October!

Yesterday Jeff and I went to see our Bean. The last time we actually saw the Bean, he/she was only 6 weeks a long and looked like a tiny sweet little blob. The cutest blog I have ever seen, but still a little blog :) Well, yesterday we got all settled in the nice ultrasound room and I had a big flat TV to watch in front of me instead of the computer screen the tech looks at. As soon as she got the little wand over my belly we saw a jumping, bouncing, VERY MUCH awake, dancing little bean!!! Beanie was going crazy! I wonder if he/she knew we could see what was going on b/c the show was outstanding! Beanie waved, sucked his/her thumb, did happy dances, flopped all around and we saw quite the show!

Our baby had all perfect measurements and NT scan itself went just fine. The neck measured around a 1.5 and it needed to be below 3! Good job beanie! We go back to the Dr. on April 27th for our 3rd check up. We will hear another round of the heart beat and just make sure everything is on track. 2 weeks after that, we will have yet another appt to check and make sure I do not have diabetes, and 2 weeks after that, we will get to find out if we have a little boy or a little girl!!! We shall see!!!

Lots of Love,

Ashley, Jeff, Baby Bean

Stats

2010-04-12T10:26:00.003-05:00

How far along: 12 weeks, 2 days

Total weight gain/loss: 0 (WHOO HOOO!!!) I think I lost some weight before I went to the first Dr. appt. Amazing I have not gained any weight. Truly amazing.

Maternity clothes: I bought a couple shirts. They fit everywhere except the belly!

Stretch marks?: None thank goodness!

Best moment this week: Knowing I get to see my bean tomorrow :) Got to hear the heart beat 2 weeks ago and that was so sweet and surreal!

Food cravings: Spicy chicken sammies from Mickey D's. Oh, and anything with lemon. YUM

Gender: Not sure! Thinking boy though...

What I miss: My nice skin :(

Milestones: Bought the furniture already! Whew. That was the BIG one crossed off the list. Have 194 days left...

12 Week Update

2010-04-12T08:47:00.003-05:00

First pic of the BUMP!!! :)

Its so hard to believe I am almost out of my first trimester. Next week when I update I will be in the 2nd tri! I am SO glad to get out of the 1st. I want my energy back!!

Last weekend my friend Tillie and I went to Galveston for a girls spa get-a-way weekend. We had SO much fun! We got in Friday night and went shopping then to dinner. Saturday we shopped along the strand, saw the ocean, got ice cream :) and headed to the spa! It was WONDERFUL. The Hotel Galvez Spa is the BEST spa I have EVER been to by far! The service was excellent, the spa rooms, relaxation room, pool, sauna (no I didn't go in, but did peek inside!) and meditation garden was just unbelievable. I really cant wait to go back again the summer. I told Jeff I would drag him there in another month or 2 so I can get another massage. The lady that gave me mine used the hot stones and was really in tune with what I needed. Fabulous. Sunday we had an amazing breakfast at this great cafe and headed home. What a great weekend! Thanks Tillie :)

Jeff was out of town on him Man Trip he takes every year with his Dad. I missed him SO much it was sad. I was extra lonely and really emotional. Thank goodness he understood and gave me lots of attention this weekend :) I made his fave dinner Friday night (chicken wings and garlic parm fries!) and we cuddled and watched movies. Saturday we went to a friends house for a pool party and had a BLAST! Sunday we went to Chapel Hill for the Bluebonnet festival. It was very interesting....lots of people... we didn't stay to long. The traffic was crazy and too many people and animals wondering around. Not what we expected. We came home early and I made him another fave dinner - Connecticut Supper and we watched movies all night. Just a great weekend in general :)

Tomorrow we get to see our SWEET BEAN!!! We are having the NT scan done to make sure the baby is good and healthy and we get to see him/her again! I will have an ultrasound done as well as blood work. I cant wait to see the growth our sweet Bean has made!! I will update with pictures and how the appt went later on this week!

Update on Dr appt

2010-03-31T11:08:00.002-05:00

Yesterday I went in for my 10 week check up. I am just a few days over 10 weeks so we got to hear the little Bean's heartbeat. I have to say it was the sweetest and fastest little sound I have ever heard!! Our sweet bean was a strong 140 beats per minute!! WOW! Its just so amazing to hear that little sound....

I also found out that I am a very healthy mommy! No weight gain, all blood results came back perfect, urine test came back perfect, and they expect the bean to stay very healthy and comfy in me :)

Cant wait to go to my next appt. in 2 weeks! I will have the NT scan done to make sure the bean is all good. I will get to see him/her on the ultrasound again! Cant wait!!

Also very excited about my girls trip this weekend to Galveston with my friend Tillie!!! Cant wait for that massage!

Until next time!

10 weeks!

2010-03-29T15:41:00.003-05:00

Only 30 more weeks to go! I have a feeling its going to FLY by...

I have a Dr's appt tomorrow afternoon! I cant wait to see an update on my sweet little bean :) Hopefully we can see him/her again (yes I have changed my mind...dont know if its still a girl!) and hear the heartbeat! I will be sure to update again tomorrow or the next couple days.

Right now, this is how im feeling:

Jeff leaves for Mississippi on Friday for a week to play golf with his Dad. I know he loves going on this trip, however I miss him so much when he is gone. Good thing I have lots of good friends to hang out with and keep me company! My friend Tillie and I are going to Galveston Fri-Sun for a spa weekend! That is going to be SO fun!!! We have a SUPER nice hotel booked and spa treatments planned! Michelle and I have a date for the week to have dinner one night. Maybe I'll take her to Luby's? ;) Thats JUST for you Stoner!

I have an 8 week belly picture to post one day. Im hesitating to post it b/c I was extremely bloated and just ate! No judging!

9 weeks!

2010-03-22T15:42:00.003-05:00

Another week has come and gone in a hurry! Before I know it, im going to be posting pictures of my sweet bean at the hospital, then at home, 6 months, then a big birthday party! Ok, lets not get ahead of myself here :)

Last week I worked alllll week except Friday. I called in. I rarely do this, but I was just really needing a day off and it sure did help. My back hurt, neck hurt, bloated, tired, cramps, gassy, and you name it. After a visit to my chiropractor, lunch at Santa Fe, and a back rub from the hubby, I felt much better!

Michigan State had a fantastic weekend!! They beat New Mexico on Friday night (barely!) then crushed Maryland on Sunday afternoon. With 3 seconds left on the clock Cory Lucious (sp?) made a basket from way downtown and won the game. It was glorious. I thought my husband was going to have a seizure! ha!

Also this weekend we bought a crib, changing table, and dresser for the bean!!! We found it on craigslist (deal of century!) at a fantastic price and just couldnt pass it up! Its cherry wood and so nice. Its used, but practically new. A couple dings, but nothing noticeable! I cant wait to paint, pick out sheets and other decorations. Week 18 appt we will find out if its a boy or girl and then: LET THE DECORATING BEGIN!!

We have our 10wk Dr. appt next Tuesday! I cant wait! I hope to see the bean again and hear the little heartbeat. I am so in love with that little blob! Even all the bloating and back pain she is causing me, I still love being pregnant. Its so wonderful. Oh, and yes, I said 'she'. I keep having dreams of a baby girl. Who knows if its a boy or girl though! So many different wives tales!

Until next time!

8 weeks down, 32 to go!

2010-03-15T13:28:00.002-05:00

This weekend Jeff and I went shopping to find him some new golf clothes to take on his man trip in a few weeks. We were out shopping around and went into a couple stores that I love to shop in. I tried on a few things and was about to buy them when i though: What the heck am I doing this for? I will be huge by summer! :( It was a little sad knowing I wont get to wear the cute little sundresses and bikinis this summer, but then thought: Next year at this time I will AND have a cute little baby to shop with and for! That perked me up right away! Oh, that and the Chick-fil-a sammie I had that afternoon too :)

I am feeling great! No morning sickness, pain, or anything like that. I am SO thankful I am not sick all the time. I am very tired esp in the afternoons and usually hit the bed around 8pm. I have zero energy - I really need to get back exercising so i dont turn into a McFatty in the coming months, but by the time I get home, cook dinner, clean up, chase the cats, and do a few things around the house I am so tired and its about 7:30! Whew!

Still have not announced anything on Facebook yet. Thank you for not posting anything on there either! I will prob. announce something in a couple weeks after my 10 week appointment on the 30th. I hope I get to see the bean again!

I would like to welcome...

2010-03-10T16:32:00.000-06:00

Baby Hawkins :)

We have not announced it to many people yet so PLEASE do not post anything on facebook. I wanted to share on my blog because its only shared with my closest family and friends!

I will be 8 weeks along on Saturday. Everything is going so great and Jeff and I are beyond excited! I have another appt and get to see the Bean and hear the hearbeat at the end of the month :)

Please keep the three! of us in your thoughts and prayers! We want a nice big healthy sticky baby!

Love,

Jeff, Ashley, and The Bean!

A little update

2010-03-08T13:16:00.002-06:00

I am not posting any big news...yet... I decided im going to make my profile private and invite readers. I think there has been some unwanted stalkers coming to my profile and I really want to make this blog private for my friends and family to read only. So be looking for an emial in your junk mail or inbox!

I never updated from vacation last month or anything really that has been going on! Jeff and I went to Fredericksburg, TX to the (Texas) wine country for a few days of relaxation. The country side is so pretty and peaceful. We drove up through Austin to stop at our favorite winery, Flat Creek Estates, and had a tasting and bought some of their yummy sparkling Almond wine. It is SO GOOD. I highly recommend trying it out sometime! We headed out to Fred's after and drove through some snow and got it just in time for some snowfall and hot tub! Our little cabin where we stayed was so perfect! Hot tub, kitchen, and total seclusion. It was great! The next couple days we toured wineries, shopped, ate, and got in the hot tub many times! We also visited Enchanted Rock and stopped at 2 more wineries in South Austin. Mandola and Driftwood. Very beautiful and great wines! We had dinner on Valentines Day (night) at the Mandola winery and had a great time. Im so lucky to have such a great hubby :)

The following week I headed to Salt Lake City, UT for work. It was a short trip, but did get an afternoon lunch date in with my friend Stacie! She brought her little girl, London, to lunch and let me tell you what a heartbreaker she is going to be! She was just pure perfection! Stacie and I had a good visit and parted ways because I had to get to the airport. Unfortunatly my flight was way delayed that night, but oh well, I got to see a little snow before I left!

I wish I had some pictures to post but they are all at home. I'll try and post them later! Other than all the crazy traveling, we have been laying low and staying in. These days sleeping sounds so much better than going out!

Stayed tuned for a new post coming soon!!

With Love,
J&A Hawkins

Stayed Tuned!!!

2010-03-02T15:42:00.001-06:00

I will be posting some good stuff here in the next few days!!!

Time Flies...

2010-02-08T11:07:00.003-06:00

When your having fun!!! I cant believe I have not had a min to update since 2009!

Here is a quick cap of what has been going on:

1.Went to San Antonio for the bowl game (MSU vs. TT). Found out that Texas Tech has the rudest fans EVER.

2. Still trying for a little Hawkins :) No luck yet, but we are hopeful!

3. Finally went to the Chiropractor to get my neck fixed after my accident in December. I am SO glad I went b/c I already feel better!

4. Been staying home lately trying to save money and get ready for the future

5. Going on vacation to wine country this week. So. excited. Pictures to follow!

6. Went to a fun Mardi Gras and Superbowl party over the weekend. Nice to have a night out with no cooking!

7. Speaking of cooking, I have been experimenting with lots of new recipes. My fave so far? The Pioneer woman's drip beef. Its to die for. In fact, I made it last week and making it again for tomorrow :) Cooking has always been a fun hobby for me, and finding new fun and HEALTHY recipes are just great!

8. Got my hair cut last week and its just so cute!

I added some pictures! Enjoy!

Goodbye 2009!

2009-12-30T09:33:00.002-06:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas and Santa was good to you all! Jeff and I spent a quiet Christmas Eve with friends (annual hockey outing) then had our Christmas at home.

NYE is always uneventful for us. We never really go out on the roads b/c as we call it - amateur night for drinkers. Just not safe being on the roads... we are going to spend it together watching movies and having our own little 'party' with wine tastings and an appetizers to match. Looking forward to some one on one time w/my hubby! NY day we are having lunch with the President of Michigan State University since she is going to be in the area for the bowl game in San Antonio the following day. That should be fun and getting to see her again will be nice. We are driving to SA that afternoon to spend some time hanging out with friends and watching the game at the Alamo dome. I sure hope the Spartans win! It was fun going to Austin to see the basketball game last week even though they lost :(

Hope you all had a fantastic 2009 and an even better 2010!

With Love,

Jeff & Ashley

Happy Holidays!

2009-12-21T14:13:00.002-06:00

Sorry I have not posted for awhile! I have been so busy with work and play its hard to take a few min's to post!

Not too much has been going on. On Dec. 5 my friend Tillie and I went to get our cookbooks signed by Ree Drummond (The Pioneer Woman) the line was SO long we waited for awhile and our color group was not called yet so we went shopping ( I found the cutest pair of Michael Kohr shoes on sale and a new pair of Jessica Simpson boots on sale!) came back to the book signing and it was still 3 more hours until our turn. I had to go to a charity scholarship dinner that evening so unfortunately, I did not get to meet Ree :( Tillie did get my book signed for me though! Thanks Tillie!!

Went and saw the Texans win on the 13th! Jacoby Jones (my FAVE player) waved to me from the sidelines. We sat with friends down on the 50yrd line about 4 rows up (better than our normal season tix seats!!) What a game that was! Too bad Texans dont play like that EVERY game...

Jeff and I had a fun party on Saturday (19th) with friends. It was a really great time! So great, I never got around to taking pictures!

Christmas this year is going to be pretty low key. We are doing a bit of traveling before and after Christmas this year. Michigan State is coming to Austin to beat up on UT in basketball this week so we are going up for a couple days, then MSU is coming to San Antonio to play Texas Tech in the Alamobowl game. That is going to be so fun to travel for that game! Lots of Texas Spartans in town!

Above is a picture of my best friends baby, Jameson, dressed up for Christmas. I Love when she sends me pictures of her beautiful baby! He seriously is one of the most beautiful babies I have ever seen :)

Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, and Happy New Year to you all! Cant wait to see what 2010 has in store for us :) Hopefully next year at this time I will be uploading pictures of a healthy baby Hawkins :)

New Pic's

2009-11-30T12:12:00.004-06:00

I hope you all had a wonderful and extra long Thanksgiving. Jeff and I had 9 whole days off together and we really took advantage of it! 2 Football games, 2 days of cleaning, 2 days of decorating, 3 days of doing nothing (and I mean NOTHING!) We went to the zoo and aquarium one of the days and saw the Meerkats. Jeff has never been to the Houston Zoo or seen a Meerkat so he was beyond excited! Thanksgiving Day we grilled a turkey and decorated which has become a tradition in our little family :) here are some pics from the week! Enjoy!

November Goodies

2009-11-17T11:50:00.003-06:00

So far this month has been a good one for me... My best friend Michelle had her little baby boy on 11-10-09 @ 6:50pm and let me tell you - he is a little sweetie. I have seen a lot of babies in my short 26 years and he is at the top of the list. I had the privilege of going to see him at 48hours old (to the T!) and seeing Mommy of 48 hours. The two of them together looking so sweet and happy (and healthy!) brought tears to my eyes!

We also had our first garage sale a couple weeks ago and sold over $400 worth of our junk! Whooo hoooo! We opened our garage doors at 5:30am and sold all of the stereo equipment before 5:35am. Wow. Talk about early birds... Last weekend Jeff and I went to see the Aeros play (they lost...boo) and had a nice weekend relaxing and spending some time together.

Looking forward to next week as well. VACATION! We are not going anywhere this time (maybe a trip to Austin or SA) but still have lots of stuff to do. Texans Monday night game, Houston Zoo/Aquarium, Thanksgiving, Black Friday!! and a weekend getaway. Ahhh gotta love vaca!

October Endings

2009-11-02T09:52:00.003-06:00

Well, another month has come to an end! October was sure a great month. I love the changing of the weather, the crisp air, and more than anything...the Halloween fun and decorations! We had so many cute little trick-or-treaters this year. In fact, one little girl - about 3ish? - was very upset with me when I answered the door b/c my pumpkins outside were not carved. She actually told me to 'get on it b/c today is the last day of Halloween' :) SO CUTE! I hope everyone had a wonderful Halloween and has a great start to the month of November... Thanksgiving is only 3 weeks away! I better get my menu started...

Here are some pictures from Halloween:

Jeff's winning pumpking!
My crappy pumpkin :(
Dr. Shots & Nurse Focker :)

Happy Halloween!

2009-10-22T13:20:00.004-05:00

Enjoy the cute email my MIL, April, sent me!

I have come to realize

2009-10-15T11:46:00.003-05:00

Tillie - I saw this on your blog and had to copy it! I love it!

1. I’ve come to realize that my chest-size. . . is just about right. Maybe one day after a kiddo or two they will magically become larger ;)

2.. I’ve come to realize that my job. . . is not boring. My last several jobs have sucked (bartending was fun but not the ideal job) and this is the best most rewarding job I have ever had. I work with two great guys and am very lucky to have a job and a job that i love!

3. I’ve come to realize that when I’m driving alone. . .I get some good one on one time with myself.

4. I’ve come to realize that I need. . . my husband. He is my best friend, better half, and my everything.

5. I’ve come to realize that I have lost. . . NO weight unfortunately. Im not happy about this either

6. I’ve come to realize that I hate it when. . . my cats throw up on the carpet at night and I step in it first thing in the morning.

7. I’ve come to realize that if I’m drunk. . . I have no limits. Sometimes that is not a good thing!

8. I’ve come to realize that money. . . rules the world. ugh. I wish I had more!

9. I’ve come to realize that certain people. . . suck. Always have and always will. Best to weed them out early.

10. I’ve come to realize that I’ll always. . . love cats and I will prob. become a crazy cat lady one day.

11. I’ve come to realize that my sibling(s). . . are no existent. I have not spoke to my brother Brian in so long and when we do speak its never nice. No clue why. The other brother is in jail b/c he is a loser. Plain and simple

12. I’ve come to realize that my mom. . . is a not a mother. Never had been or will be. I cant wait to break that awful cycle and become a wonderful mother, something mine never was.

13. I’ve come to realize that cell phones. . . are sweet! I love mine! But hate when people talk/text and dont pay attention to the road.

14. I’ve come to realize that when I woke up this morning. . . I did not feel well after a wine tasting last night :)

15. I’ve come to realize that last night before I went to sleep. . . I should not have had that one last glass of wine...

16. I’ve come to realize that right now I am thinking. . . I wish I could kiss my husband..i need that right about now!

17. I’ve come to realize that my dad. . .was once a good dad, then something snapped. So sad that my parents are no existent in my life and didnt get to see me get married (they were invited but chose not to come b/c they have other more important things to do on that one day) or will never get to see their grandchildren.

18. I’ve come to realize that when I get on Facebook. . . Get on? When do I get off? :)

19. I’ve come to realize that today. . . I am not prego.

20. I’ve come to realize that tonight. . . will be a quiet night b/c my husband has a golf tourney today and charity dinner tonight

21. I’ve come to realize that tomorrow. . . is Friday! The weekend!

22. I’ve come to realize that I really want to. . . have a family so bad

23. I’ve come to realize that the some people . . . still suck. There are only a few good ones out there!

24. I’ve come to realize that life. . .can be good. Very good.

25. I’ve come to realize that this weekend. . . I have a date with my husband and so excited about it!

26. I’ve realized the best music to listen to when I am upset. . . is the comedy channel. Makes me laugh and forget about what i was upset about before!

27. I’ve come to realize that my friends. . . are my really good friends. I dont have just reg. friends. The friends I do have are few, but the best people around :)

28. I’ve come to realize that this year. . . has been a wonderful but changeling year.

29. I’ve come to realize that my ex(s). . . were never good enough to me. I am so thankful I found Jeff. He is truely the best man in this world

30. I’ve come to realize that maybe I should. . . loose that weight i have been talking about? I should say the rest of it....lost some but plateaued.

31. I’ve come to realize that I love. . . my sweet little family of 28. Jeff, myself, the cats, and all of our fish :)

32. I’ve come to realize that I don’t understand. . . why I still do not like onions. I can find a small piece in a stack of pasta and it grosses me out.

33. I’ve come to realize my past. . . made me who I am today. I just wish there were a few things I didnt have to go through

34. I’ve come to realize that parties. . . can be fun. I like parties at my house, but not big on going to other people's parties.

35. I’ve come to realize that I’m totally terrified. . . of snakes!!!!! The thought of them makes me pass out.

36. I’ve come to realize that my life. . . today is blessed and wonderful. I have my husband to thank for that

The Final Days...

2009-10-09T14:52:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow is the LAST day I will take my birth control! As of this weekend, we are officially starting to try for a family! I am so excited! and nervous! So many what if's, questions, thoughts, prayers, and hopes are going through me right now!

My BFF Michelle and I had lunch today and she is due in just a couple weeks! Even at 9 months prego, she is still thin and beautiful. I can only hope and pray I look that good when I am about to pop! haha!

Lots of my friends having BB's soon! Sprinkle some baby dust on me :)

With love,

The Hawkins

One year down!

2009-09-30T13:51:00.004-05:00

This past weekend was our ONE year anniversary! We stayed in town and got a hotel at The Magnolia (what a great hotel that was!) and had a wonderful dinner at Artista. Jeff got me the best gift I could have asked for: A DVD with our wedding pictures, engagement pictures, and honeymoon pictures :) Best gift I have ever received!

What a great year we had!

A little re-cap:

Went on a fabulous honeymoon cruise

Lots of fun Texan football games

Got to experience Lefthand beer straight from the brewery

Went to Colorado together on vacation

Had a blast in Brenham wine tasting

Went to Granbury for wine tasting and Valentines Day

MSU basketball!!!

Ohio trip to see Dad

Michigan trip to see BIL graduate

Got a fancy pool ;) haha!

Made lots of new friends

Gained a few new house pets!

Lost a house pet :(

And had our one year anniversary - best of all!

I hope the next year of our lives bring happiness and a little Hawkins :) to us!