Duvalls in the Desert

4 Months

2012-01-31T19:42:00.001-08:00

Teddy is 4 months!
He is an easy-going, good-sleepin', hungry-all-the-time child and I could not be more in love.

Here are the outtakes from our little afternoon photo shoot:

{Charlie is interested}

{annndd, Charlie is disinterested}

{stunnas}

Hair

2012-01-31T14:53:00.000-08:00

For the first time since Teddy's birth, my hair shed less today than it did yesterday!
Is this the beginning of the end?!??!! Let's hope.

Teddy's First Giggle

2012-01-27T20:33:00.000-08:00

Charlie at the Park

2012-01-27T20:28:00.000-08:00

I Forgot...

2012-01-21T19:33:00.001-08:00

how much fun Photo Booth is!

2012-01-20T15:24:00.000-08:00

I will praise the name of God with song, And shall magnify Him with thanksgiving.

Psalm 69:30

Some Days

2012-01-18T16:38:00.000-08:00

We might have been in our p.j.s and dress shoes at noon.

Whatev. At least her diaper was clean.

Whole Lotta Baby

2012-01-16T15:14:00.000-08:00

Our weekend was a wonderful mix of eating, drinking, snuggling, shopping, laughing, feeding babies, diapering babies, bathing babies...and more of the same.

We adored having Jody, Whit and their precious Harrison stay with us this weekend and was so sad to see them go. We will see you again soon!

HDD

2012-01-12T19:52:00.000-08:00

This face is going to be in my home tonight.

I am pumped.

Taking Notes from the Toddler

2012-01-11T14:02:00.000-08:00

Teddy was fighting a nap for the better part of an hour until Charlie piled him high with warm laundry. Seemed to do the trick!

You better believe I left that laundry right where it was until he woke up.

Halfie

2012-01-10T19:31:00.001-08:00

Dear Charlie~

Today we celebrated your half-birthday. You are fairly confused about birthdays these days, thinking every day is YOUR birthday. Happy Birthday is your favorite song and we sing it daily which makes matters worse. As if regular birthdays weren't perplexing enough, your mom insists we have a half-birthday too. She likes baking cakes.

We did all things Charlie today, and it started with a trip to the doc's to get a Hep shot. You wow'ed Dr. Wendy with all the words you know, your super waxy ears, and the fact that you made it back on to the charts (3% for weight, 25% for height). Go you! We also went to Chick-Fil-A for lunch with Daddy...You ate about 3 fries and one swig of chocolate milk. We played at the park, listened to Adele all day {okay, that was mommy}, played "stickahs" with your sticker book and address labels, and had a total of zero time outs. Go you! We all had fun today in your honor, and wish you many more Happy Halfies!!

If You're Lookin' to Make Friends

2012-01-08T12:24:00.000-08:00

Seriously, if you're in the market for friend-making, bake these brownies.

Ingredients

1 2/3 cups granulated sugar
3/4 cup (1 1/2 sticks) butter or margarine, melted
2 tablespoons water
2 large eggs
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
1 1/3 cups all-purpose flour
3/4 cup NESTLÉ® TOLL HOUSE® Baking Cocoa
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/4 teaspoon salt
3/4 cup chopped nuts (optional)
Powdered sugar

Directions

PREHEAT oven to 350º F. Grease 13 x 9-inch baking pan.

COMBINE granulated sugar, butter and water in large bowl. Stir in eggs and vanilla extract. Combine flour, cocoa, baking powder and salt in medium bowl; stir into sugar mixture. Stir in nuts. Spread into prepared baking pan.

BAKE for 18 to 25 minutes or until wooden pick inserted in center comes out slightly sticky. Cool completely in pan on wire rack. Sprinkle with powdered sugar. Cut into bars.

3 months

2012-01-03T15:05:00.000-08:00

The Teddster -- Teddy Edy-- Big Guy -- Little Man -- Stinker -- 13 lbs. of Joy

He eats...a lot.

He smiles...a lot.

He is still putting up with his sister's shenanigans...a lot.

We love him...you guessed it... a lot.

Sugar & Spice

2012-01-01T15:47:00.000-08:00

Oh Charlie,
You are one part sweet to two parts spice.

We wouldn't have it any other way.

Hello from the Big Guy

2011-12-21T16:27:00.000-08:00

2011-12-17T10:54:00.000-08:00

This Week

2011-12-11T15:48:00.000-08:00

Flip flops.
Toilet.

Cheerio.
Up nose.

Charlie.
Tall enough reach door knobs and open.

Only the strong survive.

Daddy Saves the Day

2011-12-08T14:11:00.000-08:00

2011-12-06T19:47:00.000-08:00

{I cannot bear to throw away any of her "art". It's always the best scribbles I've ever seen}
{We've got a smiler on our hands}
{Proud sister}
{Tummy time turned into nap time. It happens.}

2 months

2011-12-01T19:45:00.000-08:00

This little man is 2 months old today! Teddy seems like he is the along-for-the-ride type. He doesn't fuss too much when his sister throws her jack-o-lantern bucket at him or when she crawls into his bouncer with him while he's sleeping.

He is in the 50% for all categories and is sleeping (feeding twice at night) and eating like a champ. Teddy, keep this up and we'll just have to keep you!

It's Beginning to Look...

2011-11-30T18:59:00.000-08:00

{Found Charlie "reading" a book to herself}

{need two little stockings to complete the collection}

A lot like Christmas!

Turkey Re-Do

2011-11-30T18:53:00.001-08:00

I made a Shepherds Pie, turkey-leftover style tonight and it was delicious! Mixed leftover turkey, one can cream of mushroom soup , a few tablespoons milk, and a combo of onion/celery/carrot/peas. Then I piped the leftover mashed potatoes on top...Baked @ 350 for 35 minutes and then added cheese at the end and broiled to make it brown. Yummmmm.

27th

2011-11-30T09:25:00.000-08:00

Between the new sewing machine and the Kitchen Aid mixer I am jumping into my 27th year as a domestic wonder!

2011-11-20T08:33:00.000-08:00

Both kids are sleeping...What am I doing blogging??? I need a shower. See ya later ;)

What does a cow say?

2011-11-16T15:28:00.000-08:00

One Month

2011-11-02T07:57:00.000-07:00

Theodore is one month old! He is gaining weight rapidly, now just about 9 lbs. (Put on 3 lbs. in one month) I am excited to see how he grows over the next few months!

We feel blessed to have had so much amazing help over this last month from my parents, my brother ,and Jordan's parents. It's crazy business with two very young kiddos and we have kept our sanity thanks to the extra help!

A Pictoral Recap

2011-10-30T15:02:00.000-07:00

Theodore E. Duvall

2011-10-20T10:13:00.000-07:00

~Theodore Edson Duvall ~

October 1st, 2011

6 lb 7 oz. ~19.5 inches

Needless to say, Teddy is here and we are navigating life with our 4-person family! It's been nothing short of insanity...a blur of diapers, feedings, sippy cups, naptimes, laundry, and lots and lots of LOVE.

Teddy is a relaxed, sleepy, easy little man. He is the Yin to his sister's Yang and for that we are grateful ;) Charlie is infatuated with her little brother and says his name and kisses him every time she walks by. She has had some trouble understanding my divided attention and has been extra spicy lately. All in all, we are sleepy but doing well. I am reminding myself to enjoy this time because, for better or worse, it will all be over in the blink of an eye. I thank God for this precious blessing he has given my family.

A Pending Arrival

2011-09-28T08:43:00.000-07:00

***

Seven Wants

2011-09-27T13:57:00.000-07:00

1. A larger car. 3 rows.

2. To sit a watch The West Wing (our latest TV show addiction) for hours with the hubby.

3. To meet baby Teddy.

4. Chocolate chip cookies or cherry pie. Either will do ;)

5. For Charlie to learn to say please...the grunting is getting old. She is starting to say something that resembles "please" so we're headed in the right direction!

6. The Euro Trip Jordan and I have talked about since we got married... sans kids (we'll drop them in Denver and hope at least one set of grandparents will take them in;).

7. To meet my newest nephew Harrison ... Hopefully right after the New Year!!!

8 Fears

2011-09-21T14:28:00.000-07:00

1. Heights. This has been a new development in adulthood. Makes me feel queasy.

2. Anything bad happening to Charlie. I just don't let my mind go there.

3. The deep ocean. We once watched the Planet Earth series on the dark ocean and it freaked me out. I know those are all God's creatures down there, but they scare me.

4. Being a momma to two kids under 1 1/2. I just hope I can keep it cool. I keep repeating, "Keep Calm and Carry on"

5. A burglary. My family was burglarized when I was little and it was a traumatizing experience for me (we came home from church while the burglar was still there.) So, I have always been freaked out about the thought of it happening again.

6. Over-baking cookies. Uggg. It's the worst.

7. Not making the right decisions for my kids. As a first-time momma, I find myself constantly second guessing if I am doing the right things. I think most of us feel that way, yeah?

8. Here's a totally honest one. I fear feeling inadequate. Most days I don't feel that way but there are some, we all have them, when you don't feel you've been a good enough wife, or mother, or friend, or daughter. You just have to love yourself through it and be better next time!

Nine Loves

2011-09-21T13:45:00.001-07:00

1. This guy. I love him. He is my main squeeze, my right-hand, my biggest supporter. It goes without saying that I love Charlie and Teddy too, but it all started with Jordie.

2. Baked goods. Oh dear. This is including but not limited to cupcakes, cookies, cinnamon buns, bread, croissants, and muffins.

3. Fall. Love the cooler weather, the earthy colors, the cozy feeling.

4. Colorado. I have such a huge sense of pride when it comes from being from CO. I love it because it's beautiful in an indescribable way, most of our family lives there, and it's just plain cool. No matter where we live, I will always consider it "home base".

5. This football-shaped platter. I bought it in college for $2.00 and have used it every year since then. At the time I bought it and made spinach dip with a sourdough bread bowl and totally WOW'ed Jordan and his housemates. It was not hard to impress that bunch with my mad cooking skills.
6. A freshly bathed and pajama'ed baby.

7. Having things to look forward to. Daily, monthly, yearly. A brownie for dessert, a visit from Grandparents, a baby, a trip next summer...keeps life fun!

8. Musicals. I know, dorky. I love musical theatre and don't go to shows nearly enough.

9. Pedicures. Hope to get one before Teddy's arrival. Lord knows, I have not been painting my poor toes in a while.

And We've got Ourselves a Belly

2011-09-20T20:51:00.000-07:00

Here's a picture of the naked 38 week belly I'm working on. It's growing by the minute.

{My hand is covering the wonderful stretch marks on my side, but notice the little one a few inches below my belly button, that's a new addition, thanks Teddy!}

My apologies for the non-stop posts about babies and bellies etc...Honestly, it consumes our daily life. Right now, especially, all that's on my mind is preparation for Teddy's arrival and how best to make this an easy transition for all parties involved ;)

I am in mid-renovation of Charlie's room and am LOVING where it's headed. Here is a sneak peek!

She may be my child?

2011-09-18T08:31:00.000-07:00

Jordan and I were looking through old pictures last night and I came across this one and thought, hmmmmm, maybe she does look a little like me? This is one of my favorite pictures of my brother and I :)

In the meantime..

2011-09-12T21:07:00.000-07:00

I am working on my Nine Loves and Eight Fears, etc...in the meantime, here are some new pictures of the family! Enjoy.

Love her face.

She's looking a bit "Bon Jovi" lately ;)

Getting very close ~ C-Section scheduled for Oct. 1st, 2011!

Ten Secrets

2011-08-31T07:40:00.000-07:00

1. I had a tattoo at one time. It was a neon pink heart on the bottom of my big toe, but since the skin there doesn't absorb ink permanently it was gone after about a month.

2. I don't enjoy reading. I wish I did, maybe someday I will. But if it is longer than a People Magazine, I fall asleep. I don't want you to think I have never read a book, I just am not the type to finish a book and move right on to the next one.

3. I am not very organized. Jordan really takes the cake in this household when it come to organization and tidiness. I am eternally grateful that he is this way!

4. Jordan and I broke up twice (once when he left for college-1 week , once when we were in college- 1 month) before we got married.

5. I am half-way through this thing and am trying to think of five more secrets. I may have to start telling Jordan's secrets ;)

6. In high school I was VERY involved. I'm talkin' VERY involved. I was co-captain of the cheerleading squad, student body president, copy editor of the yearbook, in a million other clubs, etc... Jordan still makes fun of me but that's only because he was too cool to join clubs in high school.

7. I eat dessert almost every night. Whether it's a popsicle, a piece of candy, a full-on brownie sundae, I almost always have something sweet after dinner. Preggo or not!

8. I want to go on vacation. Now. Unfortunately, since we are awaiting Mister Teddy's arrival there is no vacation in the works for a while. :(

9. I am jealous when I drive past the swimming pool and see the girls sitting in peace and quite listening to music. Pool time has dramatically changed since having a baby, and I miss the way it used to be.

10. I'm glad I'm done with 10 secrets!!! Up next, Nine Loves! This one will be easy!

10 Days of You

2011-08-31T07:31:00.000-07:00

I am stealing this from my sister-in-law's sister-in-law, Kristy! I struggle finding anything to talk about that does not revolve around "the kids" these days, so this will help! Like Kristy, I am not promising to do this every day, but I will finish all 10 days eventually!

Under Construction

2011-08-28T21:05:00.000-07:00

My blog is undergoing some minor reconstruction...I just have to be smarter than the template and we'll be in business . Please bear with me.

40 Years

2011-08-23T15:20:00.001-07:00

This last weekend marked 40 YEARS of marriage for Jim and Jill!

What an incredible family you have created... one that I am very proud to be a part of.

Congratulations to you both for so many wonderful years,

and CHEERS to so many more!!!

We love you!

Big Week

2011-08-21T09:33:00.000-07:00

Charlie has a new hairdo this week... This is the only thing that will keep her bangs out of her eyes while we're growing them!

...and she has been leaping out of her moving vehicle while we're on walks...

...and with the help of Ms. Amy, Charlie made her first finger painting...made my heart melt.

Duh.

32 Weeks (almost)

2011-08-11T13:26:00.000-07:00

This picture was from 30 weeks and I am now nearly 32 weeks so imagine it a tad larger!

I had an appointment today and Doc Conrad says Teddy is still breech. We still plan on an ultrasound in about 4 weeks to see what action we should take next if he is not flipping over.

Not much new around here besides trying to mentally prepare for life with two small children. It is starting to sink in for Jordan and I how much Teddy is going to change our three-person circus! We are so excited to meet this little guy, but are savoring what little time we have left one-on-one with our Charlie girl!

2011-08-11T13:22:00.000-07:00

Does anyone know where my tiny infant baby went???

In Case You Missed It

2011-08-07T08:43:00.000-07:00

Harrison Dean Duvall
born to Jody and Whitney on August 3rd, 2011
8lb 6oz, 19 inches

We welcome you to the family, little man. We are grateful for the gift that you are and hope that you continue to be a good little sleeper for mommy and daddy in the coming months ;) Love you Harry!

(cousins "Kinect-ing" on the TV)

It's a shame...

2011-07-31T13:42:00.000-07:00

...That my daughter will NOT leave a bow in her hair. It's heartbreaking for me. Tragic even.

These could be her's for the low price of $7.99 a piece. These are only a handful of the ridiculous bows I saw on Zulilly.com today!

Mama, Baby, and the Other Baby

2011-07-31T11:12:00.000-07:00

Mama:

*30 weeks preg.

*Working A LOT

*Anxious for the Summer heat to be OVER

*Receiving uninvited comments on her belly...Baby sitter's daughter asked if I was having twin boys ;)

*Hungrrrry most of the time..usually for fruit or ice-cream...or Mexican.

Charlie Gail:

*Walking everywhere

*Eating people food, drinking whole milk (still working on being exclusive with the sippy cup)

*6 Teeth

*17 lbs. (3rd percentile) 27 in. (50th percentile)

*Becoming rapidly independent

*Throwing tantrums when we take things away from her, mainly the TV remote.

*Teaching her to be gentle with a baby doll. It'll be a work in progress ;)

Teddy Edson:

*Breech - Will check him again in 6 wks and then take action from there. Either try to turn him or schedule a C-Section.

*3 Lbs.

*Feels much larger than Charlie was (Yay!)

*Super active in the evenings

Daddy:

*Awesome.

*Steady in the face of hormones.

*A diaper-changing, hair-brushing, french-fry-feeding, super-silly, wonder-of-a-daddy.

*Darn handsome.

Eventful Month

2011-07-28T07:29:00.000-07:00

This happened 5 years ago...7-8-06
This happened 1 year ago...7-10-10

JULY = A WHOLE LOT OF LOVE

A Festive Surprise

2011-07-01T10:57:00.000-07:00

Jordan picked up his boss from the airport on Wed. night and to say thank-you, his doll-of-a-wife sent Jordan home with these adorable Oreo-Fudgy-Delights...This pregnant girl's dream.

I have a very soft spot in my heart for sweet and festive treats...I'm going to have to make some of these to share!

Thursday Fun

2011-07-01T10:23:00.000-07:00

After a Wed. that left much to be desired, we decided that Thursday was going to be FUN! Jordan and I both had the day off plus it was only 107 degrees, so we wanted to take advantage and take Baby Girl to the petting zoo! We only stayed about 30 minutes but it was a lot of fun seeing Charlie's reaction to all these funny looking creatures. Jordan kept disappearing to the goat pen, where I imagine he feels most at home ;) He sure knows a lot about goats and I love to hear him retell his 4-H days and raising many a goat.

After the zoo we got the car washed, went swimming, had lunch, went to Chick-Fil-A for an afternoon french-fry snack and bbqed some brats for dinner. I LOVED Thursday, and it made me super excited for three months from now, when I can plan fun "days off" for Jordie and the kiddos!

Charlie Walks

2011-06-29T19:52:00.000-07:00

Things We Will Call Him

2011-06-26T21:12:00.000-07:00

*Charlie's little brother*
*Our Second Born*
*Punkin Head*
*Buddy*
*Little Man*
*My Love*

Theodore "Teddy" Edson Duvall

Per Whitney's Request

2011-06-26T20:52:00.000-07:00

~My nearly 1 year-old and my 25 week wombmate~
Don't mind the sweaty, tired-looking mommy...It's just that I'm sweaty and tired ;)

#8

2011-06-16T11:19:00.000-07:00

Front-loading washer/dryer

Ice/water in the door! This mama is pretty easy to please.

Oh, she's coming with us too!

This is move #8 in the last 5 years...This time it's not our fault! The landlords we currently have are wanting to move back into their house so they are paying us to leave!

Funny thing is, we're moving two doors away into the EXACT same house. Keeping it simple here in AZ! I'll be sending our new address vis e-mail shortly.

Please keep us in your prayers for a safe and easy move this weekend! On the bright side, it's only supposed to be 102 degrees and not 110 ;) Love YA!

30 Years

2011-06-11T20:21:00.000-07:00

This weekend my parents celebrate their thirtieth wedding anniversary...30...3-0.
THIRTY YEARS!

I am in awe of what a big number that is. Since I have been married I have gained a deep appreciation for all those years you two have spent together. Being as young as you two were, having two small children, working, going to school, raising children...It leaves me wondering how you made it out alive. It also gives me great hope in what is ahead for Jordan and I, and our quickly-expanding family. Thank you both, Mom and Dad, for staying together for 30 years. For loving each other when it would have been easier not to, and for unknowingly being a huge source of inspiration to me and Jordan.

We love you and congratulate you!

Here's to 30 more years!!!

Great Weekend

2011-06-05T12:43:00.000-07:00

Last night after work we picked up our buddies, Ryan and Claudia, from the airport and had dinner before having to drop them off at their car...They had just gotten back from a week in Jamaica! It made my heart so happy to see them and made me miss getting to see them all the time, like we did when we lived in Prescott Valley.

Today Daddy is working until 2:00 so Charlie and I made blueberry muffins! I have been on a berry kick lately {Blue,black,straw,rasp...all of 'em}. From the kicks and punches little man is giving me, I don't think he minds!

HOPE YOU ARE ENJOYING YOUR WEEKEND TOO

Presenting...

2011-05-12T12:11:00.000-07:00

Mr. Duvall!!!

Here's the creepy, fried chicken-looking pic...

Our little man is snug like a bug in a rug in there and is around 1/2 a pound!

Baby #2

2011-05-11T08:18:00.000-07:00

{don't mind my goofy face}

Tomorrow is the big day!!

Are we having a girl or boy?

The Clapper

2011-05-08T20:48:00.000-07:00

Three Loves

2011-05-04T15:05:00.000-07:00

Her. Him...

...And these babies.

For Nostalgias Sake

2011-04-30T19:49:00.000-07:00

I took a couple snapshots of Charlie's sleepy face watching the Royal Wedding to show her when she's older. Maybe she'll care, maybe she won't!

By the way, I LOVED the wedding. I am girly to the core and this was a very exciting morning for me! I thought Kate was perfect, the hats were awesome, and the kiss should've been a bit juicier! One of my favorite parts was watching Harry as Will's best man...their brotherly bond made me sort of weepy.

Brotherly bond or raging hormones, I can't be sure!

Three Things

2011-04-26T17:30:00.000-07:00

Three things I'm looking forward to:

1. The Royal Wedding - April 29th
2. Finding out if we're expecting and little man or another little gem- May 12th
3. Our trip for Jody's graduation! - May 16th

Easter!

2011-04-25T20:39:00.000-07:00

Charlie and Daddy

Sushi Easter Lunch!

Mama and the babies! {the avocado is 16 weeks}

We had a lovely Easter Sunday...Went to church, and when we came home I decided I wanted to take some pictures of us with Charlie in her pretty Easter dress but when I put her on my hip for the first picture I realized she had pooed all over her pretty outfit. Di-sgusting. So, we have exactly zero pictures of Charlie in her dress. I thought you wouldn't mind that much if I put up some pics of the naked baby anyway!

A Little Something for Your Monday

2011-04-25T09:04:00.000-07:00

G-Ma and G-Pa

2011-04-19T20:02:00.000-07:00

We spent this last week playing with Jim and Jill! Well, Jordan and I went to work while Jim and Jill played with Charlie.

One afternoon when I got home from work, I was surprised to find that Jordan had rearranged our new living room furniture! What a dear he is!

We had many cups of coffee and few cupcakes along the way and have planned a Cupcake Competition for the next trip~ The Coffee Shop vs. Sprinkles

All in all, it was a lovely visit per the usual and we are literally counting the days (27) until we head to the Oregon coast!!!

2011-04-14T13:43:00.000-07:00

Grandma Jill and Grandpa Jim were slated to leave this morning at 4:30am, but only Jim made the flight! Late last night Jill came down with a terrible stomach bug and couldn't get on her early flight this morning :(

While we're sad she isn't feeling good, we're HAPPY to have her here for longer! I got her some 7-up and a People Magazine...that should do the trick!

{we're kinda thinking this was a ploy for more Charlie time}

9 months & 14 weeks

2011-04-07T12:59:00.000-07:00

{We're pretty much smitten with each other}

BABY-GIRL:

-Has started following me around the house (crawl-style), like my little duckling. AAnnnnd i love it.

-Around 16 lbs. We'll check for sure next week.

-Is constantly on the move, we are exhausted by the end of the day from chasing her around and making sure she doesn't get into anything. (She's got several bruises from bumping into things and falling down) ;(

-Has two bottom teeth and is working on a top and another bottom.

-Says "da da" ALL the time.

-Is learning how to clap her hands. She'll see us do it and then flap her hands around, trying figure out how to mimic us.

- Doesn't have a huge interest in baby food right now. She would rather have formula or people food.

- Fears Jordan's beard. She pulls away from his kisses because it tickles. He said it's enough to make him consider shaving it :)

BABY-MAMA:

-No longer nauseated - Hallelujah!

-Baby's heart rate today was 165

-Belly has started showing

-Hungry for protein and carbs (chicken and pasta lately)

-My hair that fell out after Charlie's birth has started growing back!

-Next appt. May 12th..."THE APPOINTMENT" to see if Charlie will have a little sis or bro!

Summer Favorite

2011-04-03T20:53:00.001-07:00

Bath and Body Works - White Citrus

I am on a constant search for the perfect citrus lotion and this is it!

Spring Break Re-Cap

2011-04-03T20:40:00.001-07:00

...there were 2 Rockies Spring Training games.
...there were 3 birthdays.
...there was 1 ferocious Todd Helton beard.
...there was LOTS of chasing Charlie around.
...there was 1 trip ti Ikea.
...there was lots of cooking.
...and there was lots of fun!

We miss you Mom and Dad, thanks for spending your spring break with us!

Oh Happy Day

2011-03-17T09:19:00.000-07:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

{to my work people}

Be still my heart...

2011-03-13T13:46:00.000-07:00

I cannot handle too much more of this sweetness.

What's better than 1 baby?

2011-03-10T07:35:00.000-08:00

We are happy to announce that we are expecting another little bundle of love in early October! This was a surprise blessing, and we are thrilled to open our home and our hearts to a second baby Duvall! Our kiddos will be 15 months apart, and now that the shock has worn off, I am excited about the whirlwind that will be our lives for a while!

We are 9 weeks preg. ~ Baby is due Oct. 8th. ~

I will have to endure the entire PHX summer, very pregnant.

A little taste of Home!

2011-03-08T06:17:00.000-08:00

On Sunday afternoon we decided to take advantage of the Rockies spring training and catch a game! It was 80 degrees and perfect! We sat in the lawn in the outfield and had fun basking in the sun, people watching, and eating Italian Ice (and I think there was a baseball game, too ;)! Salt River Field is a brand new facility that reminds me of a scaled down Coors Field...We're going to catch two more game in two weeks when MY PARENTS COME! So excited to go back!

Warrior Dash 2011

2011-03-01T13:04:00.000-08:00

Jordan has signed up for the Warrior Dash in Florence, AZ on May 1st!!! This is a 3.4 mile race that takes you through 12 obstacles along the way including tunnels, sand, repelling, mud, hay pits, and fire to name a few...yes, fire. The best part is that at the end you get a tee-shirt, a medal, and a sweet Viking Helmet! Charlie and I are super excited to cheer Daddy on from the sidelines! GO JORDAN!

Thumbs up for today

2011-02-15T15:55:00.000-08:00

I give today 2 thumbs up!

79 degrees...A park in our front yard...Grammie and Papa sent us a present...YC's Mongolian BBQ tonight for dinner...maybe a couple Girl Scout Cookies {Jordan's boss said it was actually written in his contract to order cookies from his daughters, so we had to}...
If this isn't bliss, I don't know what is.

Grandma's Been Here

2011-02-15T15:40:00.000-08:00

{jammin' in her jammies on her hand-me-down piano}

{sometimes I still can't believe we have a kid}

You know Grandma's been here when:

*There are home-cooked meals every night when you get home

*The baby gets a bath every day

*The floors are mopped and/or vacuumed daily

*Laundry is done

*There's a new toy or two, or three

*The next trip to visit is booked before she leaves ;)

Thank you for coming to see us and for being so helpful while you're here! Can't wait until the next time! We love you!

My Valentine

2011-02-14T18:52:00.000-08:00

This year I have some competition for my Valentine's heart, but lucky for me, she can't talk yet, to ask him to be her valentine, so he's all mine!

I spare y'all the super-gush, but I will say that I could ask for no better partner in marriage, no better daddy for my daughter, and no better friend for my life. I am so blessed by this man. Happy Valentine's Day!

Oh Charlie

2011-02-02T13:12:00.000-08:00

Silly girl helping mama in the kitchen...

Who doesn't love a little nekked baby booty? {don't mind the spray paint on my hand}

We're hoping Charlie's yoga poses turn into crawling soon! Daddy has been trying to coax her into crawling daily.

Bun in the Oven

2011-01-25T13:14:00.000-08:00

Now that Whitney has made it blog-official I can announce that THEY ARE PREGGERS!!!

The news of their pregnancy is such a huge blessing to our family and an answered prayer for so many people. It is also a fantastic reminder to remain faithful to the desires of your heart and to Him who gives life. I will continue to pray for dear friends that desire children and ask that their hearts would be made patient.

That is one lucky baby, to have Jody and Whitney to call Mama and Daddy! We are overjoyed for you and so excited to welcome the newest member of the ever-growing Duvall Family!

ETA - August 10th (ish)

6 months stats

2011-01-22T17:19:00.000-08:00

Well, hello there!

She's a curious little bugger!

She's trying desperately to crawl...almost there!

I do this because I am the Mom and I can. :)

The day I've dreamed about forever... a baby with a bow! (Her first non-headband bow)

Nothing in the world sweeter than a sleeping, skinny-jeaned angel.

6 month appointment went very well. Here are the stats:

14.14 lbs. = 25th percentile

26 3/4 in. = 75th percentile

IQ= at least 100, but it's really hard to gauge this young ;)

Her head is rather flat on one side, but the doctor assured me that it'll be okay, and she won't think I'm a bad mother if I don't get the $3,000 helmet! These days Charlie is:

*Almost sleeping through the night! (She wakes up at 3am and I let her cry for about 15 min. until she goes back to sleep)

* Rolling, rolling, rolling

*Nearly crawling, but mostly just scooting backwards

*Being Grabby McGraberton, she grabbed my glasses right off of my face this morning!

*Eating 2nd foods at night with formula throughout the day. So that includes baby food that combines more than one food (mixed veggies, garden veggies, apple/pear) I still have not fed her fruits, b/c if she has her mama's sweet tooth, we'll be in trouble!

* Very vocal! Jordan would like for me to tell you she's saying Daddy, but she's not! It just sounds like it!

She seems to be developing right on track which makes a mama happy. Her shots were not that bad, just the initial shock of the pricks and then a little red-faced screaming...and then a nap! That is about all that's going on here at the Duvall Ranch! Have a good weekend EVERYONE!!!!!

Someone's Got the Giggles

2011-01-12T19:49:00.000-08:00

1/2 Birthday

2011-01-09T16:40:00.000-08:00

At an attempt to begin a tradition, we are celebrating Charlie's 1/2 birthday today! I made a half-birthday cake, and when she is old enough to request a special dinner, I will oblige! For now, she gets green beans, and Jordan and I get CAKE! It will just be a fun thing to break up the monotony of everyday life ... mostly I just like CAKE.

2010-12-20T07:12:00.000-08:00

All I want for Christmas is YOU! (and to not have the pat-down from TSA)

Praying

2010-12-20T07:08:00.000-08:00

... for blue skies in Colorado, California, and Oregon this week!

Bouncer!

2010-12-20T07:06:00.000-08:00

2010-12-12T13:54:00.000-08:00

"...While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads..."

ummm...

2010-12-12T13:24:00.000-08:00

we devoured this plate for lunch! A lovely way to spend this warm summer afternoon...oh wait, what's that? It's winter?

(and that delicious hunk of cheese is our Cougar Gold with sweet basil! )

Happy Birthday

2010-12-10T09:07:00.000-08:00

I told her this was not an acceptable play, but she laid it anyway. I challenged her, she lost the challenge and threw a fit !

Happy Birthday (Yesterday) Jill! We love you and hope you enjoyed your day !

Thanksgiving 2010

2010-12-01T16:31:00.000-08:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving in AZ this year! My mom and Todd were able to make it to our house, but something was definitely missing, as my Dad stayed in CO to prepare for STATE FOOTBALL FINALS!!! (Championship Game to be played this Sat. ---- GO CARDS!)

There was lots of food, lots of fun, and lots of gawking over Miss Charlie! My mom spent two weeks with us and we were so grateful for all of her help and company, and good cookin'! We are really blessed to have Grandmothers that care so much for our little girl ... it warms my heart. Thank you Mama L. and Mama J.

26th year: Day One consisted of:

2010-11-27T17:36:00.000-08:00

Skyping with my Dad (while wearing a Birthday Girl Tiara)

Trader Joe's "Bay Blend" in my favorite new mug...

My favorite Oatmeal Chocolate Chip Cake...

This perty thing...

Nail polish and Philosophy spray

and a new diaper bag!

What a way to kick off my 26th year! I got so many sweet calls, cards, and messages that filled my heart with joy! My mom made one of my favorite dishes, beef stroganoff , and then we concluded the evening with the new digitally remastered Beauty and the Beast. It was a really wonderful day and I am so excited about what this next year brings! Love you all!

Elizabeth anticipates State Championship

2010-11-18T09:19:00.000-08:00

Photo courtesy of Denver Post

Here's an article written about the E.H.S. Football team my Dad helps coach!!!

Sweet Treats with Grammie

2010-11-18T07:45:00.000-08:00

Charlie helped my mom and I make the first batches of fudge this holiday season! We made a batch of peanut butter fudge and also my favorite, chocolate with pecans. My brother, Jordan, and my co-workers are in for a real treat, seeing as we made TONS of it!

Charlie had her 4 month shots yesterday and did much better than at her 2 month appt.! She cried, fell asleep, and woke up to her normal smiley self! Here are her stats:

12 lbs = 25th percentile

25 inches = 75th percentile

head circumference = 50th percentile

So, we have a long skinny kiddo. Who woulda thought ??? We are having a great time with my mom here and are getting very excited about the Thanksgiving Feast, especially after watching The Pioneer Woman on Throwdown with Bobby Flay last night!

I die.

2010-11-18T07:39:00.001-08:00

Giada saved our lives by introducing us to these little corn muffins of l.o.v.e.

Garlic Corn Muffins with Sun dried Tomatoes...try it today.

Ingredients

2 (8 1/2-ounce) packages corn muffin mix (recommended: Jiffy)
2 cups frozen whole kernel corn, thawed
3 garlic cloves, minced
2/3 cup diced sun-dried tomatoes (from an 8-ounce jar)
2/3 cup buttermilk
2/3 cup sour cream
2 large eggs

Directions

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F. Grease 2 muffin tins.

In a large bowl combine the muffin mix, corn, garlic, and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir to combine. In a small bowl whisk together the buttermilk, sour cream, and eggs until well blended. Add the buttermilk mixture to the muffin mix. Stir to combine. Spoon the mix into the muffin tins, filling up the cups about halfway. Bake until golden brown on top, about 15 minutes.

Rice Cereal!

2010-11-15T05:45:00.000-08:00

Lucky Dog

2010-11-07T20:22:00.000-08:00

Guess who got a new Serta? The one who has become second string around here since Charlie came around, that's who!

Sunday Pic

2010-11-07T20:19:00.000-08:00

Here's the latest pic of the little peanut. Don't mind the slobbery face, we think she may be teething!

Fall in AZ

2010-11-07T19:28:00.000-08:00

I spent a little time over at the pool on this beautiful AZ fall day! So far we love living in Gilbert and are very happy about the decision we made to move! If we had not moved, Jordan would be in TX right now and would be gone for another 2 weeks. Instead, we took a lovely walk around the neighborhood, played with Charlie, bbq'ed some dinner...etc. Happy Fall everyone!

Greetings From Charlie

2010-10-29T18:44:00.000-07:00

Charlie After Flipping

2010-10-29T18:15:00.000-07:00

Prepared

2010-10-29T18:04:00.001-07:00

We now live in a community with LOTS of kiddos. We are prepared for all those punkins and princesses and ghosts and goblins...and I'm secretly hoping to see a Snooki.

~Happy Halloween~

2010-10-29T17:57:00.000-07:00

...from our little lady bug.

Hope you get more TREATS than TRICKS!

What a Week!

2010-10-27T10:17:00.000-07:00

Beautiful rainbow I saw last Wed.
The packing paper from the kitchen boxes only! Good thing they do recycling in Gilbert!

If only Charlie ate solids...she'd be all over that coffee cake!

Of course it didn't take us long to find a GREAT coffee shop. They also serve the cutest cupcakes that have been featured on the Food Network and Ace of Cakes!! I have found true love.

Bathtime with Grandma Jill!!!We made steak salad and it was totally delicious!

With Jill's help we are getting settled in our new home and exploring our new town...I think we are going to be really happy here! Love to you!