Together is the best place to be...

Moving on

2013-02-09T08:49:00.000-07:00

I have been thinking about this little blog of mine ALOT lately. I used to love posting snippets of our life on it and going back reading through things (its my online journal). Truth is I stopped looking at my blog or wanting to post anything to it, to me it just become dark and sad (which I guess is a true depiction of where I was in my life). I thought about starting a new blog and letting this one go, but then I thought just as my life we don't just start new we move past things so that's what I am doing. I am not promising there will never be any sad post on here (this is my journal after all), I am going to be more diligent in posting happy memories and good times. :)

Two years!

2012-08-09T08:58:00.000-06:00

Dad…
I don’t know what to write anymore… As I sit here browsing through pictures of tender memories of a father, a childhood, a family structure that is gone. I cant help but cry out for you… I have so many questions; I NEED you dad. What I would do just talk to you once again… I can not believe that it has already been two years since that night. I miss and love you more than words will ever express and I hope that you can feel the love that your kids and grandkids have for you.

Does this mean we are Adults?

2012-05-16T14:09:00.001-06:00

I am not sure who was more excited about Kevin's graduation me or him. Kevin graduated with a B.S.B.M, from the University of Phoenix. I will admit at times it felt like this day was never going to come. Maybe that’s why my big ideas almost took ever (Yes, I wanted to plan a Party/BBQ and Yes I wanted to go on a little Vacation- Both of which were shot down) I tend it to get a little carried away, I will admit… But I was excited. I have to admit although my ideas were shot down the day turned out perfect… Kevin kept telling me all he wanted to do was go to dinner with family after his graduation so that’s exactly what we did and it was great.

I truly am so proud of Kevin, I may be a little bias but, I think he is the smartest, most talented person I know…Not to mention, Best husband, Father and Friend… I thank my lucky stars everyday that I get to call him my hubby.

I am a horrible blogger… I totally failed and thought that our little point and shoot camera would work just fine for me take Pictures of the graduation… WRONG – The lighting was way to dark so needless to say; I had a a wife and blogger fail. We really do not have any pictures of the graduation. (I have a really nice, Digital SLR camera do you think I would ever use the thing… nope.)

iPhone+Instagram to the Rescue…

Charades

2012-04-23T15:17:00.001-06:00

Oh This poor little Blog of mine… She has become so neglected! I wish I could say I was out doing something amazing maybe exploring new places… But sadly that is not the case, truth be told I have been feeling quite down. Those of you that are close to me know what I have been through and continue to go though… And I want to say thank you for sticking by Kevin and I. I know its been almost 2 year (actually its been much longer than that), but my heart still aches as if it was the first day. I often wonder if the pain will stop and If I will ever have peace in my heart? I have tried and continue to try to be strong and ensure everyone that everything is ok… when deep down I know its not, and I am pretty sure you all know. But the game of Charades counties I guess that’s what we do as humans we want everyone “looking” in to think all is good for fear that stones may be thrown at our glass houses.

I am not sure where I would be, but most defiantly I would not be here; If it was not for Kevin and Charly. I have an amazingly strong husband, As most of you know Kevin is genuine and true to the person he was raised to be (Kudos to Keith and Lynnette); and I thank the Lord everyday that he is mine.

And seriously who could not be happy when you have this adorable little girl hanging around?

I know I need to snap out of my funk.. After all big things are going to start happening at the Pickett house I can feel it!

Happy Valentines Day!

2012-02-14T08:50:00.001-07:00

Mrs. Clean

2012-01-25T17:00:00.000-07:00

Before I had Charly I used to wonder why girls would always chop off there hair after they had kids. For a while I thought that maybe it was easier to do, (But really I think shorter hair is harder to do there is no just pulling it back) so that did not make sense…

Well I am hear to say I now know why… Your hairs falls out and its not just a few strands here and there… Oh no it is in clumps; And even more annoying your hair is everywhere, I hear this from Kevin often “Jamie your hair is all over everything” Its true my bathroom floor, the shower, the couch, the car, the ENTIRE house…

So with that I have a confession to make… I lay in bed at night wondering what I would like as this guy….

New Trick. . .

2012-01-18T16:41:00.001-07:00

I absolutely adore this picture… Look at Kevin’s face… I Love how tiny Chary looks in his big hands… Look at that little Butt… Ahhh Precious. This was Charly’s first bath at home. (7-3-2011) .

This was the first time she took a bath in her Whale tub (7-20-2011) . Charly LOVES her whale tub, she would just lay there and relax…

Well Folks… Times have changed gone are the days of just laying back and Relaxing…

This chick has a new Trick… Rolling in the Tub, along with trying to climb out (Sorry no pictures, I was busy wrangling the child) … I think our days using the Whale tub are number… (Date taken 1/14/12)

There is one thing that I know will never change… Miss Roxie supervising bath time… I am pretty sure she does not think Kevin and I are qualified… She may be right!

Seriously when did my little baby get so BIG…

*If anyone know where I can buy a bath seat please let me know.

2012-01-01T16:47:00.001-07:00

I have been Slacking on Blogging… and decided there is no way I will be able to catch up. So here it goes the Pickett’s top 11 of 2011

11- Charly Got Tubes… First surgery and she was only 4months old (Almost 5 months)… This is something she desperately needed.

10- Jamie Turned 30… (Thank you mom for the Surprise Party)

9- Kevin’s back in school… Yeah Only 5 more credits to go (Which is 2 more classes Wahoo)!

8- Charly’s First Camping trip at 7 weeks old.

7- Weekend get away for our 10 year anniversary to Park City (First time Charly slept through the night, I told Kevin its was a sign she was made to travel)

6- Bermuda (We called this our Babymoon)

5- Caribbean Cruise With the Family… Yes I totally rocked my baby bump in Caribbean…

4- Justin and Mandee Tie the Knot

3- Charly’s Dedication

2- A new nephew.. Welcome Austin Charles DuBose!

1- The biggest blessing of all... The Birth of little miss Charly Lynn.

Looking back this has been a great year… We are looking forward to 2012 and what the Lord has in store for us.

Christmas

2011-12-30T14:11:00.002-07:00

I can not believe that Christmas has already come and gone, Once again this year I struggled with getting into the Christmas Spirit. This is the second year in a row that I have been in a funk… and I need to snap out of it. Next year I have BIG plans people BIG plans.
This year I was so excited for the Pickett cousins Christmas party… This was the first year that I felt like Kevin and I belonged. In years past we were always invited, I just sometimes felt like the looser couple going to the kids party with no kids… But not this year… Yeah!
I love this Picture of all the girl cousins lined up from oldest to youngest… SO CUTE!

Later that night we had the annual Pickett Fondue Party, and of course the White Elephant gift exchange… Mmmmm Love me some fondue! (Major Fail I did not get any pictures)
On Christmas Eve we had my mom, Justin, Mandee and the Kids over.
The DuBose’s …

Justin, Montana, Mandee, Austin and Brandon.

Grandma Vicki With the Grand kids…
On Christmas Morning Charly Woke up at 5:30 (this is her usual wake up time). Kevin and I showed her what Santa had left her and let her open the present we got her.
Santa has been here!
Checking everything out…

Opening presents… Charly was being so cute when she was opening her present she would make this low growling nose… Ha Ha This baby cracks me up!

Sorry about the shaky Video… and Yes I know I sound like a goober, but had to share Charly growling…

Where's Charly?
We hope you had a very Merry Christmas!

Chocolate

2011-12-30T12:39:00.001-07:00

In an effort to jump start my Christmas spirit this year; I asked my mom to help me make Candy. If you were lucky enough to know my grandma Leavitt then you know she was known for her delicious candy, It was a tradition I grew up with and I always new it was Christmas when I walked into her house and the smell of Chocolate field the air. Of course my mom was more than happy to help and before I knew my small batch of peanut butters and mints turned into 10lbs of caramel and 25lbs of chocolate. In all we made orange sticks, lemon, raspberry, turtles, mints, nougats and Peanut butters. I have no idea exactly how many we made, I can tell you it was a lot. I had so much fun making the candy and I look forward to making it again next year, this is a tradition that I defiantly want Charly to know.

Mandee and Montana making Centers

Charly and Grandma Vicki making mints

Kevin chopping the chocolate

We even recruited Lynnette (Grandma Pickett) To help dip!

Montana and I playing Candy shop; Yes she was my apprentice… (Scary picture, but this is what you like after almost 18hrs of Chocolate making)

Rolling!

2011-11-06T21:58:00.000-07:00

Little Miss Charly Lynn is now rolling!

Happy Halloween from our little duck!

2011-10-31T08:00:00.000-06:00

Kevin and I decided to have a little photo shoot at the park with Charly… We decided she was the cutest duck there.

Love this little girl so much!

Marshmallow Mattes to the Rescue!

2011-09-01T14:24:00.001-06:00

I am so behind on blogging and have way more important things to blog about than this, but I came across these pictures (from a few months back) and they made me giggle… Kevin is often drawn to these packaged meals, I think he thinks they will be quick and easy after work. Usually I am able to convince him not to buy them but this one he wanted to try…

Can I just say this thing was NASTY… as it was cooking my house had a funk! And yes there was a funky green tint to it, needless to say this thing went right into the trash.

Marshmallow mattes to the rescue…

Lessons learnd , Don’t let your hubby pick out grocery's and Marshmallow mattes do really save the day!

Happy Birthday!

2011-08-17T07:01:00.000-06:00

Today is Lynnette’s (Kevin’s Mom) Birthday! I truly feel so blessed to have her in my life, she is such a amazing woman, mom, grandmother and friend and truly a mentor for me. This past year Lynnette has helped me become a better person, daughter, wife and mother. I will always be thankful for the kindness and love that she has shown me… I am so grateful to have such an amazing mother in-law.

Lynette we hope you have an amazing birthday, we love you so much! Love/ Kevin, Jamie and Charly

A Great Year!

2011-08-09T08:17:00.000-06:00

I cannot believe it has been a year since that night... The night that everything changed, my normal was changed, my family was changed, I was changed. I have struggled with doing this post. It would be all too easy for me to write about how hard this year has been. How I worry that the family I once knew will never be the same. Although this year has been hard it has also been great. My faith in God and what he has done for me has grown so much . My marriage is stronger, It may sound crazy but I love Kevin so much deeper than I ever have, every day I fall in love with him a little bit more. I am closer to my in-laws; I am truly so thankful for the Pickett's and wonder where I would be without Lynnette. I am thankful to still have my mom and for our relationship that continues to grow. I am thankful for my Brother and know that he loves me. But most of all, we all were blessed with the best gift... Little miss Charly Lynn she has brought so much joy and happiness to both Kevin and I. We often tell her how lucky she is to have her Grandpa Charlie as her extra special guardian angel.

Although its been a hard year its been A Great Year!

And baby makes three…

2011-07-22T10:04:00.001-06:00

Where do I even start… June 27th 2011 was a day I have been waiting my whole life for; it was the day I was going to become a mom…

I had a scheduled induction on June 27th. The night of the 26th I remember laying in bed thinking “holy crap tomorrow my life is going to change forever.” Kevin and I just laid in bed talking about Charly. We wondered how things were going to be after she was here, talked about how fast my pregnancy went by and how everything was going to go tomorrow.

Before I knew it; it was the morning of the 27th, my alarm was blaring and it was time for me to get out of bed… Let me just say I dragged my feet all morning and truth be told I was scared… Could I really do this? Do I even know the first thing about being a mom… Holy crap I never took a lactation class!?!? How am I going to feed the baby… YIKES! Somehow I was able to get showered and somewhat ready (how does one get ready to go have a baby?). As Kevin and I left our house that morning he said “well, the next time we come home we will be a family of three.” As we were walking into the hospital I remember looking over at Kevin and saying “can we go back home?” he made the comment that it felt a lot like we were checking into a hotel and I remember looking over and saying this is way different than checking into the Fairmont… and there we were on the 4th floor of Mc-Kay Dee Hospital…. ready or not here we go.

Before I knew it they had me changed into my hospital gown and the IV’s hooked up. This is when Kevin called the moms (my mom and his mom) to let them know that they could come up and it was time to start the Pitocin. Dr. J came in and broke my water around 930am and I remember as she was getting ready I asked her if she needed to get a bucket or something. Everyone just laughed and said ‘no that’s what the towels are for…’ After my water was broken I guess they wished they would have taken my advice and got the bucket because I had so much water (my L&D nurse, Connie, told me she would not be surprised if I had just lost 10 lbs because there was so much water). For those of you who’ve never had a baby, this is the craziest feeling ever, I am not even sure how to explain it other than a uncontrollable gush of warm water… this odd sensation of course gave me the giggles which made even more water come out (which squirted out like a little fountain), needless to say I had everyone in the room laughing. It was now time for my epidural (I was lucky, I went into the Hospital 4cm dilated, so they were able to give me my epidural quick that I never really felt a hard contraction; I felt a few small ones but nothing too bad). I can honestly say that this was the most painful part, maybe it was because needles scare me, or maybe it was the fact that the anesthesiologist was not that friendly… Regardless it HURT! Once everything was done it was time to wait and wait…

The Pitocin did cause me to have contractions, however, along with the contractions came some unwanted side effects. With each contraction my blood pressure would drop and even more worrisome after every contraction Charly’s heart rate would drop from 150 to 90…

They would turn off the Pitocin for 30 min and then turn it back on to try and ‘solve’ this problem, but every time it was restarted I had to start at a lower dose (4). The plan was to get me up to a dose of (12), but the highest that we could ever get was to a 8 before the problems would start back up. We were told that they were going to turn it off, let my body rest for another half hour and once again and turn it back on at 4:30. The nurse did tell me that if it did not work this time I would have to get a c-section. I remember thinking ‘ok just do what you’ve got to do, I am so ready for this to be over with…’

It seemed as soon as my nurse told us this, the nurse was coming in saying that Dr. J had reviewed the strips (my contractions and Charly’s heart rate) and that she would be here in 10 min and it was time to get me ready because we were having a c-section… I remember thinking wow what happened to 4:30? I thought we were going to try this again? Before I knew it they had Kevin dressed and I was being pushed to the OR.

The actual C-section is a Blur for me… I remember trying to joke with Dr. Patel (the Anesthesiologist ) telling him that he was the candy man (There was simply no teasing with that man), and Dr. J telling me I had nice tissue (Ha Ha… Really I have never had that compliment before). Kevin looked down and said “can you feel that?”, I responded, “No, but I cant breath like someone is pushing too hard on my lungs” (After the fact Kevin told me they were doing quite a bit of pulling and tugging).

***Warning - The below photos are from my C-Section**

And before I knew it Charly was here! I got a quick glimpse of her; and then she and Kevin were off…

I remember laying there thinking holy cow they just cut me open, took my baby and now I have no idea where she or Kevin is… This was the craziest feeling… I was now a mom… But seriously where was my baby? Where was my husband?

After surgery I was taken to a recovery room and still no baby or husband? Finally Kevin, Charly and a nurse from the nursery came in. Charly was perfect (Apgar score 9/9), then the nurse said what I had been dreading “your baby is starving you need to feed her” (Oh crap… I knew I should have taken that darn lactation class) I just looked at her and said ok but I have no idea what I am doing… Luckily she knew exactly what she was doing and was able to help me.

We were then taken to our post-delivery hospital room.. Yeah! I get to see everyone (Keith and Lynnette, my mom and Justin and Mandee were all there). That first night in the hospital I am not sure I slept at all… I just laid there staring at Charly and Kevin… thinking ‘wow the Lord has blessed me so much, I am truly thankful to have such a loving and caring husband and now a perfect little girl… God is Good!’

Charly had one little set back on that Tuesday (June 28th), they came and got her to do a hearing test, Kevin and I were in the room visiting with Pastor Gerrod and Paula (I still could not get up). I remember hearing a baby crying but not thinking much about it… Well after a few minutes our nurse came in and explained that Charly had stopped breathing in the hall but they were able to get her breathing (The baby I could hear crying was mine) and that she was being looked at by the NICU doctor… I remember feeling tears well up in my eyes and just looked at Kevin and said go be with her… Charly had what they call a Blue Spell, when babies are born via C-section their little bodies don’t get squished enough to get all of the amniotic fluid out of there lungs which can cause some babies to choke and stop breathing. Although Scary this is something that can happen, I am just thankful that it happened when the right people were in place to help her… I am not sure what Kevin and I would have done had this happened with just us.

In total we spent 5 days in the hospital, My recovery has been surprisingly quick and we are now enjoying life with our perfect little girl…

Charly Lynn Pickett Born June 27th at 4:49PM, 6lbs 12oz and 20 inches long.

Fully Baked!

2011-06-27T08:00:00.000-06:00

Wow I can not believe I am in the 3rd trimester It seems like just yesterday I was telling Kevin that we needed to get a test… So Much has happened in the past few months, I know for one I have grown. Not just physically but mentally, spiritually and do I dare say I feel like I have grown up… My emphasis on God, my marriage and family has truly grown. I know that one the best gifts that Kevin and I can give Charly is a strong and loving marriage and a safe and stable home. I am truly blessed to have such a wonderful and caring husband.

April 30th – Today my mom and my Cousin Shelly hosted a baby shower for me. I must admit I love all of the cheesy shower games, today we played hearts (Which is a lot like Bunco). Hearts was always a game we had to play at showers that’s my Grandma Leavitt was helping with. So it was important that we play hearts at my shower as a way to remember my Grandma; oh how I miss her. Charly and I got so many cute things.. I can not wait to start putting everything away in her nursery.

May 4th – 31 Week Dr. apt.. Oh My Goodness Charly is measuring big Dr. J says she weighs around 4.5 lbs I know what you are thinking that is not that big well at this stage she should be around 3.5LBS that is a whole pound over…

May 8th – For mothers day Kevin took me to Mimi’s for Breakfast one of my favorites and to get Pedicures. I love that Man!

May 13th – Just for the record shopping at 33 weeks pregnant is NOT fun… I’ve noticed when I am up and moving I have a lot the Braxton hicks contractions, and they are starting to hurt; my poor hubby had to drag me around the Mall (its usually the other way around)…

May 14th – Today My Sweet Sister in-laws and Mother In-law threw me a baby shower… They even did cheesy Baby shower games (Thank you Ladies). I am so blessed to have such fun in-laws. Charly even got her own SKP (I will post some time about the SKP’s) not to mention many other great gifts.

May 15th – Everyone at Church kept asking how much longer… And when I would say 7 weeks they would give me a look like “Oh honey you must be miserable”. I swear my belly is going to rip in two… Only seven more weeks I can do this… If Caroline Ingalls could do this, I can do this….

May 19th – 33 Week apt! She is now at 5lb 2oz. We love our big healthy baby.

May 27th – Making room for baby! Nothing like organizing and cleaning out cupboards and closet

May 28th - Maternity Pictures… Thank you Angela, Kevin and I had a blast!

May 30th – Charly kicked so hard today I wonder if she bruised a back rib… All I could do is laugh and cry at the same time. I Laugh because I love feeling her kicks and jabs, and cry because they are beginning to HURT.

Jun 2nd- 36 week apt. Charly is now 6lbs the good news is her head is no longer measuring big… She looks perfect!

Jun 4th – Crow Mt Hike, This year Kevin and I did not hike the Mt for obvious reasons… But watch out Next year we will be hiking.

The Davis/Pickett Cousins… Charly is going to have so many friends to play with.

The Pickett Girls… Yes its true that is my baby bump! Ha Ha!

June 6th – I am so tired of Kevin having to pull over so I can puke or always looking for the closest bathroom or garbage can… I am pretty sure my poor esophagus will never be the same.

June 9th - I am at 2cm and effaced 70%… So these Braxton hicks contractions have been doing something.

June 16th – I had another apt today I am now at a 3cm… I almost fell off the table when Dr. J, said she would induce me on the 27th of June; If Charly had not come yet… Holy Crap we now have a set date. All along I have been saying that I wanted a set date and now that I have one I am starting to freak out. Although Dr. J wouldn’t say, Kevin and I both got the impression that she thought Charly would come sooner than later.

June 22nd – I feel like a Pregnancy ticking time bomb…

June 24th – Today was my last day of work until after Charly is here… It was the strangest feeling knowing next time I go to work I will be a mom she will be here.. I will have held her in my arms, kissed her cheeks and looked into her eyes. Today was also our last OB apt… It will be the last time that we remember to grab the DVD (My Dr. does a ultrasound at every apt and its on DVD, I love watching her grow from a little “Smudge” to a baby that cant be seen in a single frame). I am now at 4cm and my water could break at any time… As we left Dr J, said well I will see you Monday if not sooner with a smile…

Kevin and I though for sure Charly might be coming tonight, Lets just say thing started happening, I called the Dr’s office to see if I should worry or just relax. Well when the nurse got on the phone she asked me if I was having contractions (insert overly stressed and hormonal pregnant lady response) I just started to cry and said I have no idea… everyone says you will know but I don’t know, I am having cramping and explained the other things that were happening, She was so sweet though and said its ok, I will call Dr. J and call you right back. Well the good/bad news is I was not in labor but my body sure is getting ready for it… And of course we called Kevin's mom too, she and Dr. J said the exact same thing… that everything was going to be alright. I spent rest of the night sitting on the couch with Kevin staring at me and with the slightest move I swear he was ready to rush me up to the Hospital.

June 25th – Still Preggers…. Today my mom and I went and got Pedi’s, A girl needs to have cute toes when she goes into labor {wink, Wink}. Kevin also took me on a date… We went to Taggarts Grill. It is one of my most favorite places to eat because you can sit out on patio and watch the peacocks… Oh and they have the BEST pink cookies ever. After dinner we came home and watched The Back up plan… Although I am not sure watching a delivery like this right before you are getting ready to give birth is the best idea… All I can say is there will be no Pools or crazy ladies with a drum .

June 26th – Well today is my official last day being pregnant I am so excited to meet Miss Charly Lynn… I must admit though although I am excited I am sad to… I am going to miss feeling her little kicks and playing with her while I am at work (She would push on my belly and I would push back, then she would push a again.) I am going to miss knowing that she is with me and safe… I am going to miss laying in bed at night and have Kevin rub and talk to my belly… I know its sounds crazy to say but I am going to miss being pregnant.

June 27th – D Day! Ready or not here she comes!

Facts About My Third Trimester…

Food I lOVED… Snow cones - My cravings have really gone away.

Food I HATED: Food has not been problem it has been Smells… I am still dealing with smells, yucky smells will get me running to the bathroom in no time

Total Weight gain: 27 LBS YIKES!

The Staging Lanes

2011-06-05T18:51:00.001-06:00

Maybe its growing up around cars or spending summer days at the race track with my brother. But right now I fill like Kevin and I have moved up from the pits and are now in the staging lanes just waiting for our turn at the Christmas tree, waiting for the lights to light up and take our turn on the quarter mile. Granted I know our quarter mile is a life time but you get the idea... I am getting so excited, I can’t wait to see what this little girl looks like, will she have Kevin’s eye’s? My Nose? Will she have Keith’s Calm demeanor? Will she have my dad’s loving personality? Will she be a tomboy, will she like sports, will she want to race herself some day. Or will she be a girly girl, Will she be like I was growing up and dread going to the shop because it was dirty. Will she want to be in dance or even pageants? Needless to say I am getting anxious to meet her, to get to know her little personality. I am also getting scared; Scared of the unknown scared of the day that I can’t protect her (there is something comforting knowing she is in a warm little cocoon happy as can be). I worry knowing every decision we make effects not just Kevin and I but also Charly. I pray that the Lord help both Kevin and I be the best parents and examples we can, That we raise Charly with a true love of the Lord.

Only A few more weeks and in a since we will be here, waiting for that green light…

Happy Birthday!

2011-04-22T10:37:00.001-06:00

Dad,

You know me, I’ve always said Birthdays are important they are the day that you graced this world with your presence. This year is different it’s a gentle reminder that I don’t have you here with me… It’s a reminder that in years past I would be baking you a chocolate cake, and trying to figure out what in the world to get the man that has everything. It’s a reminder that you will physically not be here when Charly is Born (I tell her often she has an extra special guardian angel watching over her).It’s a reminder of all of the milestones I will miss with you. I used to think you were going to live forever, You are my dad one of the strongest men I know. I can not find the words to express how much I miss you.

Your birthday is also a reminder of all of the milestones I was able to share with you, One of my most vivid was my first pageant I was eight years old and I remember winning and the Trophy I got was taller than me, and the first thing that came to mind was “Look dad my trophy is bigger than any of yours”. Or the time in Sixth grade you took me to the daddy daughter dance, I remember you opened my door for me and I was thinking wow he does not even open moms door (She must have set him up to this). And then there was the first time you met Kevin you asked him “Do you have a job?” He answered yes and you said “Good she is expensive”… Little would we all have guessed that I would end up marrying that boy you gave a hard time to years back. I am so thankful you were there for my wedding day to walk me down the aisle. I was nervous of falling down the stairs and you told me “don’t worry I will hold you up”; And you know what you have always held Me, Justin, Mom, Kevin, Mandee, Brandon and Montana up.

Words cannot express how much I miss you. I will admit there are days that I would rather stay in bed. I struggle with why my dad why now. But I know I need to get up and be there to hold Kevin, Charly, Mom, Justin, Mandee, Brandon and Montana up. I want you to know I am trying to keep everyone together, because I know your family “Us” was the most important thing in your life. I love you dad, and I can not wait until the day I run up and give you a Big hug and smell your greasy car guy smell…

Love you always and forever… Your little girl Peaches.

2nd Trimester. . .

2011-04-17T18:19:00.001-06:00

And so it continues… My pregnancy journal that is. There is a lot that I have included on this little journal that I would usually never include on my blog… But I have said it before and I will say it again I think of my blog as my journal I just so happen to let everyone read. So here we go… Warning its another long one.

Jan 3rd – Wahoo we are at 14 weeks, I am now defiantly in my second trimester. Here is hoping the morning sickness goes away. And I swear over the past weekend this little baby has popped out; my tummy is rounder and Fuzzy like a peach…

Jan 4th – Oh the joys of puking at my desk at work. Nothing like grabbing the garbage can liner and running to the bathroom… Only to be greeted by the security guy waiting for me to come out to make sure everything was ok and offer to call someone for me… I will laugh about this someday, Just not today!

Jan 5th – Babymoon…Bermuda here we come… Here is hoping I can keep everything down on the plane ride. I really don’t want to puke on the plane…

Jan 5th-10th - Babymoon in Bermuda.. The good news is that I only got really sick once… and it was so stormy while we were there that Kevin and I just relaxed in our hotel room. Ahh……. Just what we needed, a little R&R. (Who knew that Bermuda in January would be cold)

Jan 12th – 15 week apt, everything looks perfect. Baby is measuring right on target with a great heartbeat. Dr. J tried really hard to find the gender but our little stink was not giving it up he/she is very modest. We did see a perfect little foot move past the screen… (Oh how I am in love with that foot). I love going to my Dr. apt, I feel so lucky to have a Dr. that does ultrasounds at every apt. it gives me so much peace.

Jan 14th – Ok so now not only do I pee my pants when I puke, but now I get bloody noses too… I am a hot mess! (I am adding this to my journal because I know there will be a day when I laugh about this… But today I am just going to sit next to the toilet and cry).

Jan 15th – Pineapple… Where can a girl get a good pineapple in Utah in mid January. Eating has become such a chore (Wow I would never thought I would have typed that), its true nothing seems good anymore… I find myself eating just so I don’t get sick… everything I crave, I cant seem to get. I thought when you were pregnant you were supposed to be hungry or at least like some food… I would just skip it if I could.

Jan 28th – Stomach Flu… After being threatened (in the nicest way) by Dr. J that I would need to go and get an IV for fluids due to dehydration. I finally broke down and took the darn Zofran… WOW that stuff works; For those of you that don’t know, Zofran is a medicine they give pregnant ladies to help with vomiting or people on Chemo (really and this is safe if you are preggers? I am just sayin) … They say its safe but I have had this stance on taking medicine that I will not take something for my comfort, All though they say its safe, is it safe enough for my baby? I know I sound over protective, I just did not want to do anything that would hurt the little nugget. Lesson learned - I should I have just started taking it when it was prescribed to me… I will admit I was wrong.

Feb 6th – Making room for baby… Bring on the cleaning spree. Good Bye spare bedroom/Catch all room and Hello Nursery. ( Dun Dun Dun… I can not believe I am posting a picture of my messy Spare bed room).

After post to come….

Feb 9th – 20 week Apt… While sitting in the waiting room Kevin and I were debating, if Dr. J can tell the sex do we have her tell us or do we wait and find out at the party. Finally Kevin looked over at me and said “Jamie can we have one thing that’s just ours” (um of course)… So on the six month anniversary of my dads passing Kevin and I were able to find out we were going to have a little girl who will be named after my dad (Charlie) and Kevin’s mom (Lynnette)… Charly Lynn Pickett this was our moment on such a hard day to have a moment of joy, is something I will forever cherish.

Feb 11th – What’s it gonna bee! Today is the day of our Gender reveal Party. I received a lot of guff from people about having this party (mainly people I work with) but I am so happy we did it, It was a great time to come together as a family and enjoy the blessings of life! It’s a Girl (Just in case you did not read Feb 9th {Wink, Wink}).

Feb 12th – 22nd – Southern Caribbean cruise.

Feb 23rd – Its official… I lost my Feet and Ankles some where between St. Thomas and Dominica.

Feb 24th – I had the stomach flu Back in Jan and since then I have had this horrible pain in my left rib cage and while we were on the cruise It seemed to be getting worse… I decided to go to the Dr. and it turns out all those months of Morning sickness followed by the Stomach flu, I tore the muscles that go between my ribs… (Well That explains the pain) and it was made worse on the cruise as I was more active… BUT the meds the would give you to help with this are not recommend for Pregnant woman… So Its just rest for me!

Feb 26th – Yeah!! We finally Found Charly’s Crib; after searching what seemed everywhere we found the crib and dresser at RC Willey’s go figure.

March 3rd – FOOD… I have started to enjoy eating again, This is a good sign it means the morning sickness is gone finally at 22 weeks (Wahoo!! Happy dance). Eating is not such a chore and I am starting to feel normal (well somewhat; I now have the apatite of a high school football team YIKES!)

March 4th – I am pretty sure I have started having my first Braxton Hicks contractions. My belly will get really tight and Hard… they are painless and irregular (that’s a good sign).

March 7th – Today while sitting at work I felt Little Miss moving all over my belly sure enough I looked down and I seen her move… Yes seen her move.. it was Crazy but awesome all at the same time… Love this little girl.

March 8th – My Back has been killing me to the point that I cant sleep at night and when I do fall asleep I get waken by the pain… After doing a little research online I found the Snoogle Pregnancy Pillow. Let Me just tell you this may have been the best purchase so far… Yeah I can finally get some sleep.

March 11th – I have been suffering from horrible back pain, after calling Dr. J and explaining where the pain was. It was decided that to be on the safe side they wanted to check out my Kidneys so they had me do a 24 hr. Urine analysis. Can anyone say Pee Jug.. Ha Ha! The good news is everything looked good and protein levels were normal. The bad news I still have a really sore back.

March 12th – Kevin has started Painting Charly’s room… Gee I am so excited.

March 19th – This week we have been in full Nursery mode, Kevin has been painting and putting up new molding; Charly’s little room is starting to look amazing. Kevin said the sweetest thing the other day, I was telling him I felt bad that I had not helped much he looked at me and said “I figure you are growing her, At least I can build her a room” Oh How I love that man!

March 21st – Its our Targeted Ultra sound. We invited Lynnette (Kevin’s Mom) and Vicki (My mom) and Mandee (My Sister-in-Law) to the Ultra sound it was so fun to experience this with everyone. Charly is growing perfect her little organs looked great, all four chambers of the heart looked good… And the best part we got to see our little miss in 4D, It was a amazing to have a sneak peak of what she is going to look like.

March 25th – All I can say is my aching back… (Tear, Tear)

March 27th – Nothing like spending a lazy Sunday afternoon in bed… Kevin was finally able to see Charly moving. She was being so active it was awesome.

March 31st – Today was the first class of our birthing class… We learned breathing technics (Yes I plan on doing All of the pain management drugs, Its true I am a wimp!)

April 1st – Who knew that registering for Baby items could be so overwhelming. Kevin and I may or may not have had to take a break in the glider section to rest our aching feet and my sore back.

April 4th – 27 weeks… My Belly Button is no longer a Innie, it's not an outtie either, it's more like a flattie.

April 7th – Today in our birthing class we learned about natural child (We are not in this category sign me up for the meds…) We also had a tour of Labor and delivery at Mc Kay- Dee. There was a little girl in the nursery it made me so excited to meet our little Charly. Everything is starting to feel so real.…

April 11th – Well hello 3rd trimester…. I am starting to feel huge!

Facts About My Second Trimester…

Food I lOVED: Fruit, Skittles, Sherbet, anything that is lite and refreshing…

Food I HATED: Food has not been problem it has been Smells… Stinky shoes, Dirty Laundry, raw meat… YUCKY!

Total Weight gain: 14 LBS YIKES!

Sneak Peak…

2011-04-05T19:33:00.001-06:00

You know when you have a vision in your mind; and you work and work trying to execute the vision only to end with frustration.. Well that leads me to this post. I had grandiose plans… Think cute girly digi page. I must admit I am having a creative block after creating 5+ digi pages and deleting them all…. Really I have decided nothing is good enough for Charly’s first pictures; So I will keep working on the Digi pages.. But I figured the world could not wait any longer,

So here it is a sneak peak of Little Miss Charly Lynn. I personally think she looks like Kevin, (look at the profile). I can’t wait for the day that I can kiss on those little cheeks.

We had our targeted ultra sound on March 22nd, this is where they check the heart, organs and overall health of the baby and the good news is Little Miss is looking perfect! Kevin and I are so in love with this little girl.

And because some of my friends want to see baby bump pictures here you go… This picture was at 20 weeks (I am now 27 weeks).

YOWZA… I am feeling huge!

You are Perfect. . .

2011-03-25T17:00:00.000-06:00

I am SOOO Behind in posting this… That’s right I will be accepting my sister of the year award this fall… Ha Ha! Ok enough about me… and back to what this post is really about.

On January 22nd Justin (My brother) married the love of his life Amanda (We call her Mandee). I remember the first time I seen Mandee (we did not meet I just seen her). Anyways as a family we went to Chilli’s in Riverdale. While we were waiting my brother said “See that girl over there” so of course we all looked (he quickly said “don’t look”) “That is Mandee she is perfect”. I remember sitting there thinking WOW he must really like her I don’t ever remember a time when my brother said someone was perfect… I didn’t know it at the time but Justin was right she is perfect, Justin and Mandee were truly made for each other.

Mandee is such a sweet and caring person, I know that she would do anything for anyone of us. When I had my miscarriage last year she was there for me she even had a dinner at her and Justin’s house. That Dinner turned out to be one of the most important days of my life. As a sister in-law and friend she is always there, if I want cry, laugh or just talk… And the best part is whenever I call her she always answers her Phone with “High Sweet cheeks”, Or “Hi Sexy Lady”, Or “What's up hot stuff”… I LOVE this about her I could be having the roughest day and to hear her cracks me up. Mandee and my dad used to joke around all the time, (Mandee likes the Denver Broncos), My dad would always ask her how are those Donkeys were doing, Or “I seen the Donkeys on T.V.” How I miss hearing them go back and forth. Mandee truly loved my dad and you know what he loved her too…

I am so happy that my brother found Mandee and she found him… Because they are Perfect together.

Here are some more Pictures of there engagement and Wedding.

What’s it Gonna Bee?

2011-03-08T19:22:00.001-07:00

Kevin and I decided to do a gender reveal party to announce the gender of our baby. (Sorry for the late post)

This little party was almost cancelled our little stink was being very modest, but after two appointment's Dr. J was finally able to to tell (with 98% accuracy). We decided to invite just family and keep it small. The party turned out better than I could have imagined (I always love getting together with family). Kevin and I truly enjoyed sharing this moment with those we love. We had Mary from For the love of Cake make the cake and cupcakes; she did such an amazing job, they were so cute and truly made our party perfect, and my favorite part the Bee cake Sparkled (think edible glitter, oh so cute!)…The little things in life that make me happy.

Marshmallow “Woman”

2011-02-23T16:20:00.001-07:00

I think you all should know…. The rumors are true I am starting to look like this fluffy guy…

While we were gone, my belly has defiantly gotten bigger, Would you believe at our last apt (Feb 9th) Charly was measuring at 8inch and 13oz… I really wonder what she is at today (I am at 21 weeks 2days, I feel like she has grown so much since then) I do love being able to feel her little squirms and nudges she does not move a lot, but loud noises seem to startle her. In addition to my belly getting rounder ~~my feet~~ ~~and ankles~~ oh heck who am I joking my entire legs have swollen up… Would you believe I can press on my legs and they indent and stay that way for at least 5 min if not longer… (Yes I feel like a science fair project).

Really Don’t believe me just check out my Feet…

Yes my right foot is turning a lovely shade of Purple… Yours would too if it swelled up to what feels like 5X its normal size. (Really though should I be worried?) If you see me hobbling along at the store or around town please don’t laugh these puppies are painful, I worry with every step that they just might pop open… Kevin is convinced I am over doing things (he is cute he gets very protective of Charly and me)…

I should mention we just got home form our cruise, we had so much fun; post to come of our adventures. But right now my family room looks like this… I need to start doing some serious laundry; Wish me luck!

***Update***

My Feet are now back to normal… Thank you everyone for your concern. Rest and elevating my feet were the trick (Oh My goodness, this means Kevin was right)

And the verdict is. . .

2011-02-12T20:07:00.000-07:00

Kevin and I are so excited to be welcoming little miss Charly Lynn to our Family.