Say What?!

This is the menu at Sweet Tomatoes.
Fabulous food... but unrealistic expectations.

"Please consume all food on premises"

Sherwood's Very Own Robin Hood

All that's missing is a pair of green tights! Andrew is lovin' his bow! At least a couple times a week we head up to the Milne Farm to visit family. Andrew and my brother Kevin have competitions and nearly shoot the goats out of their own barn! With all the practice they are getting, they are the next "men in tights" for sure.
Here are a few pictures of Andrew practicing this last Friday.

Chandelier, My Dear?

I found the PERFECT chandelier for Londyn's nursery!
It was such a fabulous deal- wholesale AND on sale!

The "Home Sweet Home" Saga Continues...

We are pleased to announce that Tuesday, March 3rd is our official closing date! Once the papers are signed that morning, that baby is ours! After some much-needed TLC is applied to our lil' home, we will be able to move in! We will keep you posted!

Craigslist Find!

I've been looking for an affordable dresser to have in the nursery, but couldn't pay the outrageous retail cost! Everyday, I have been scouring Craigslist for a good find but haven't been able to find my money's worth. Lo and behold, patience IS a virtue! I found this adorable hutch and dresser for $75.00 on Craigslist, used my charm and got it for $65.00! To match the nursery, we're going to give it a nice and new paint job in black.

The style fits my vision for Londyn's bedroom.

Baby Love: Doula Style

In my research of pregnancy, childbirth and becoming new parents- I have been exploring all of our options with the changes taking place. With the gift of Google, I have found lots of useful and websites and interesting facts. Considering I have a very high case of anxiety, I want to be as prepared as I can for the birth of little Londyn. I want to share this special time with my husband without biting his head off... hence my curiosity and interest in a doula. In my blog stalking, I found a doula that is in the area! She is LDS and has a lot of experience in coaching through labor. When first learning about a doulas services, I was under the impression that doulas were all about natural childbirth and alternative methods. Boy, was I mistaken! She has no preference in how I choose to give birth. She's just there to help! I have no qualms with those that give birth naturally, more power to em'! But personally, I am thoroughly and utterly determined to have an epidural! Bring on the drugs! I don't think I'm a wimp for this choice, but a woman who knows her boundaries and what she can and can't handle.

If you're curious about a doula yourself, here's some info and what they're all about!

The word doula is a Greek word that means women’s servant. Women have been serving other women in childbirth for centuries and have proven that this support from another woman has positive effects on the labor process.

What is a doula?
A doula is a professional trained in childbirth who provides emotional, physical and informational support to the woman who is expecting, in labor or has recently given birth. The doula's role is to help women have a safe, memorable and empowering birthing experience.

What are the benefits of having a doula?
Numerous studies have revealed the benefits of having a doula present during labor. A recent Cochrane Review, Continuous Support for Women During Childbirth, revealed a very high number of positive birth outcomes when a doula was present. Doulas often use the power of touch and massage to reduce stress and anxiety during labor.

What about the father's role when using a doula?
The role of the doula is never to take the place of the husband or partner in labor, but to compliment and enhance their experience. Today, many husbands are taking a more active role in the birth process, but some partners feel that this is a huge expectation and would rather be able to enjoy the delivery without having to stand in as labor coach. With a doula as a part of the birth team, a father can do whatever he feels comfortable with at each moment. Doulas can encourage the father to use comfort measures and can step in when he needs a break. Having a doula allows the father to be able to support his partner emotionally during labor and birth and also enjoy it himself without the pressure to remember everything he learned in childbirth class!

Belly Birth Blog

Click above for more info!

FHE

For Family Home Evening last night, we watched An Unlikely Mormon: The Conversion Story of Glenn Beck. It was such a wonderful and touching story, filled with an overflowing testimony and honesty. I really felt connected to some of the experiences he explains from my own trials in life. Although I was raised in the LDS church since I was a baby, I still had my own converting to do in gaining a personal testimony of Jesus Christ. Glenn Beck is such a strong man and Son of God as he portrays his conversion story in hitting rock-bottom and getting to where he is today. I see him in a whole new light and truly admire his honesty. If you have not had the opportunity to see this DVD, it's a must see!

Melt My Heart

The newest PC commercial has because a highlight in my television time! Kylie, age 4 1/2 is the most adorable little Asian girl with spunk. I gotta say, the kid reminds me of myself back in the day. Check the video out on YouTube.com if you haven't already! She is the most precious thing you have ever seen!

McCabe Group Giveaway!

Through the blogging grapevine, I found this giveaway offered through the McCabe Real Estate Group in Sherwood. I was enticed to check it out, knowing this family-owned group is in my local community and not only find homes for families, but also participate in Cancer awareness and the Relay for Life. Join this blog, watch their videos and take a shot at their giveaway!

click the link below
In and Around Sherwood Oregon

Snuggie Lovin'

Ever since the infomercials for the Snuggie came out on TV, I have been convinced that it is sheer genius. Now, I have noticed many poking fun at this fabulous and friendly "invention" but seriously, a blanket... with arms?! We ALL could use one of those. I get so cold... ALL the time and instantly grab a blanket... but yet, I can't use the remote control when watching TV, or hold my book when reading... OH THE AGONY!!! But now, with the fabulous and functional Snuggie, I can do all of the above!

I didn't want to spend the money on one because on TV they are way more than I want to spend on an over sized piece of fleece... but my Mom who has seen me light up whenever the Snuggie commercials come on TV, found one for $14.99 at Walgreen's. That's right! Only $14.99, for a limited time offer... at your nearest Walgreen's! Okay... I watch too many infomercials.
Those people really know how to get me!

But seriously, if I haven't convinced you with this post... tune in to the infomercials!
They'll get you too!

The Nursery

I have finally begun to plan for Londyn's nursery! This may seem odd, but it's been so hard for me to commit to real purchases for the baby. All of the planning seems so surreal. As I have eased into the fun planning portion of expecting, I have decided on decor and some furniture.

This is a big step! What do you think?

***I absolutely adore the theme/decor I picked out for Londyn's nursery.
It is the Pink and Black Sophia Baby Girls Crib Bedding Set by JoJo Designs
(Surprisingly enough, not only is the bedding included but all of the fabulous accessories as well!)

***We purchased the Aspen Stages Crib from Target.com
It is a 3 in 1 convertible crib in black

Crib

Toddler Bed

Twin Bed

Also, I have been a Craigslist addict and finding lots of super finds! Gently used or even brand new NWT items. Craigslist is a lifesaver!

Items Purchased on Craigslist:

Eddie Bauer Travel System - Includes: Car seat, 2 bases and stroller

Adorable hand made headbands and flower clips

Tan Canvas Sofa

Wood and black iron TV stand

.... lots more!

Exercise? Say what?!

I found a fabulous primary care physician named Maggie Yu, here in Sherwood. As you can tell from her last name, she's Asian - Chinese to be exact, and she's a hoot! She's fabulous, for anyone who is looking for a new family doctor.

Anyway, down to the nitty gritty... I saw her today to simply establish care so that when Londyn comes, we will be set with our family doc. We also did some baby talk about where I'm at and what I need to be doing. I wasn't expecting a needle in my arm, testing for a Vitamin D deficiency... nor was I planning on the "exercise" talk. Ugh. This doc is one tough cookie! For most of you that don't know, I have some pretty hefty anxiety and so I take meds for this condition. Since I've been pregnant, the risk of getting off the meds was much higher than staying on them... so I figured that was the cure to my anxiety. It has worked wonders! Unfortunately, Maggie told me that my ZERO exercise per day/week isn't cutting it. Exercise is a huge dose of medicine for anxiety and can really lift the spirits, naturally. I know she's right. This isn't the first time I've heard the "exercise" talk. Not only for my anxiety, but I need the exercise for the deep and depressed state my body will be in, postpartum.

Ever since I was diagnosed with Placenta Previa, I've had a huge OUT from exercise and was told NOT to over-do anything. It was nice while it lasted...

Richard Simmons... look out!

Valentine's Day: The 1st of Many

This last Saturday, February 14th, 2009 was our very first Valentine's Day together. It was such a perfect day! We decided that since we're a broke joke, we couldn't spend much... at least that's what I had thought...

So, I woke up early on Saturday morning around 7:30pm and put my sign up on the bedroom that says, "Happy Valentine's Day... PLEASE STAY HERE! (And that means... Don't Move a Muscle!" I then laid out a big heart-shaped box of chocolates and headed downstairs to begin my task. I prepared REAL french toast with fruit compote, powdered sugar and whipped cream with Andrew's favorite, Silk soy chocolate milk. I also set out breakfast for the King and Queen (Ma and Pa Milne) with a sign that said "Happy Valentine's Day - for the King and Queen" I even set out a diet coke on ice, at the Queen's place setting... am I good or am I good?

I then tiptoed upstairs to deliver breakfast in bed to my valentine. It took me several moments to wake him up... I guess I didn't need the sign to make him stay put. He was so sweet and thankful for my surprise. It was definitely a success! Last but not least, I gave him my homemade valentine that I took so long to make. It was so fun getting creative with my Valentine's Day plan. I love surprising Andrew!

Now, as for Andrew... he definitely outdid himself with his Valentine's surprise. I was pooped from making breakfast so I decided to take a nap, late that morning. I was sweetly woken up by my husband with a card and gift. The card mentioned how I needed a break to relax. When I opened the gift bag, the Wicked soundtrack was inside. I was so excited, because almost my whole family is going and since we can't afford tickets- I figured at least I could enjoy the music! Then as I opened the CD, their were tickets inside! He is taking me out for a night on the town. I was shocked! Not a clue :) I can't wait to see the show!

After the wonderful events of the morning, we attended my niece Mary's baptism. It was such a beautiful baptism and such a sweet spirit was present. She was so lovely in her white dress and I was honored to be there. A warm feeling came to my heart as I realized that someday, not too far, will I be dressing Londyn in her white baptism dress. I love Mary so much and am grateful that my little girl has such outstanding cousins to look up to as examples.

Following the baptism, the family went to Sweet Tomatoes and we stuffed our faces with delicious food. It was the finale to a perfect day. It is days like this that I feel so blessed for all that I have and the people in my life. I am a very lucky woman!

Blog Shoutout

Andrew has created his own blog! It is called Obscure Facts of Knowledge. In his blog, he offers interesting tid-bits that he randomly comes across in his day to day whereabouts.

Check it out!

www.ObscureFactsOfKnowledge.blogspot.com

Kick Off!

I have been a little anxious lately, not having felt Londyn movin' and groovin' in my belly. I know that it just takes time and when she's ready, she'll make herself known!

On Friday night I was laying in bed, just hoping that I would feel her... and there it was! A lil' flutter on the lower right side of my belly. Initially, I rationalized that this was just a frequent occurrence of GAS... but there it was again! And... again... and again! Ever since then, I get a lil' nudge here and there, usually in that same area.

My belly is getting bigger and bigger by the minute! My greatest accomplishment these days is getting myself up from a sitting or laying down position. Trust me, it's not as easy as it looks!

The Milne Hotel

We have been SO grateful to live under my parents roof for the time being. It has been such a relief not to live out of suitcases and to have real meal's every day. The Milne Hotel is very accomodating! Our plan when moving here originally, was that my parents were in the process of buying a house in foreclosure and then we would be renting it to own down the road.

Unfortunately, the closing process on a house in foreclosure isn't so simple.

We are in the waiting process and hope to close the house in 2 weeks. Then we can get to work!

The house needs some intense TLC but we are fully prepared to give it a full-fledged makeover!

Workin' Hard for Our Money

Andrew and I were so fortunate to move here to Oregon with jobs already in place. With the economy the way that it is at this time, job security is a huge concern. Luckily for us, we both have job opportunities here in the area!

Andrew is working for Chem-Dry, a carpet cleaning chain. He is in training right now, learning all the ins and outs of clean carpeting!

I have begun working for my dad again in his oral surgery practice as a receptionist. I started working for my dad when I was 10 years old... and then off and on until I was at the age of 19. Now that I am back, it is so good to be working with people that love you and that you genuinely care about in return. It's good to be back!

IT'S A GIRL!!! Londyn Joy

Footsie

Heart Rate 149 bpm

Hi Mom!

Hi Dad!

Our Baby Girl

On January 27th, 2009 we had an ultrasound to find out that we are having a sweet baby girl! Her name is Londyn Joy Armitage. We are so excited to meet her and finally have her in our family.

After the big move to Oregon, we were able to establish care with Dr. George Weghorst an OB doctor in Newberg, OR. We saw him for an exam on February 4th, 2009. He ordered a 20 week full fetal ultrasound to be done the following week. We were able to see baby Londyn in all her glory!