Counting Our Blessings

This has been such a busy weekend. Good and bad. We've enjoyed lots of "Q-Time" with our friends. But then there was some tragedy near us. We're all praying for the family. And the families of the Empire State Building shooting. Wow! It's just been so up and down lately.

It makes what this man does for a living, seem a little...well "unimportant" this morning. His words, not mine. When you see the "Real World" crashing down around you, sometimes it just makes you think. But we're trying to get our heads on straight.

This guy has to work tonight. Not tomorrow. Like during a "usual week." It kind of throws off our schedule. But that means we have tomorrow off. And what are we going to do? Have a "Date Day," in Tennessee. Should be fun!

Until then, this guy is clowning around. We're watching Baby C this morning. As her momma, isn't feeling well. And well, this Nono is having a blast! Singing this song to her...



And she just thinks it's that best thing ever! I've got to admit, it's fun to watch him sing and dance around. With not a care in the world! Because tonight, he will be very serious, at work. And I'll probably be having a blast with Baby C. Maybe we might get a little nap in too!

But more than anything, today is about counting our blessings. With all these tragedies that are happening, and knowing that my own grandma is experiencing some health issues, we must count our blessings. Our family could really use your prayers right now.

God is GREAT! We just need to believe in him. And remember he is here, to help us carry our hardships. Happy Saturday! ♥

The Good, The Bad, And Some Fun Time!!!

Hi everyone! Long time, no chat. :) Well, this guy and I, were enjoying a piece of paradise. It was a nice time away. But turns out, the old blog, was flipping out while I was away. :(

I had a post, set for each day that we were away. Sadly, as you can tell...they didn't post. I don't know what's up. Only that in the "Edit Posts" tab, they show as POSTED. Go figure. I contacted Blogger. Hopefully, within the next few days, they'll be up. Sorry ahead of time. I assume you're feeds, are going to get a little filled up...

But back to the good things. We're in a beautiful, yet extremely H-O-T place! Filled with tons of history!!! I'm getting to spend the day with My Bestie and Baby C. :) Good times people! While My Guy and his friend, are sadly working. All. Day. Long!!!

It's nice to catch up with friends. Especially since it's been so long, since I've last seen My Bestie. And beautiful Baby C!!! Turns out, they've been enjoying tons of "Family Time!!!" And enjoying our friends' new babies. Yes, a few new babies are in town. :)

And with that being said, we're just going to relax. What can I say? I still feel like I'm on vacation. :) Maybe I'll do a little crocheting. Like this fun little project...



What do you think? It doesn't hurt that I adore cupcakes! Between don't you just adore Twinkie Chan? I do! A few years ago, I ran across her on the internet. And now, I'm a HUGE fan! Her book, I'm totally IN LOVE with it too! Happy Saturday!!! ♥

The Perfect Little Dress

As you know, I've got tons of gorgeous Goddaughters. That I love dearly!!! I've been looking for some cute little patterns. Because I just adore, making them sweet little things. Maggie's Crochet, is one of my favorite websites, to buy patterns from. She's got some fun patterns. Things that I've never seen, anywhere else.

I found this little dress. The Madeline Pink Check Outfit. To me, it just screams Baby C! Except, it doesn't come in a small enough size. I bought it anyway. Took a look at the pattern. Read through it, and made some adjustments. To meet Baby C's size 3 months frame.



As I've been working on this adorable dress, I couldn't help but think of Miss Matilda. And I've started a larger one for her. Something she can wear, when the weather cools again. :) But let's not be fooled, I've got a Wish List at Maggie's Crochet, that's a mile long! I tell you, when I decide to have babies, I'm going to have to start crocheting years in advanced!!! ♥

A Lesson Learned in Life...

This week, we're in a beautiful place. The hills of the "Big Bend State." Oh yes, it's beautiful! We spent lots of time, just enjoying the area. Amazing vintage shopping! My Bestie and I, took a long stroll, with Baby C. Just enjoying the beauty, of this space. This my friends, is one of my favorite places to visit!

But now, it's work time, for My Guy. And honestly, I'm pretty excited. I myself, will be studying. But it's not so bad! I have a HUGE exam tomorrow. And a lot on schedule this week. Medical Conferences, Clinicals, and did I mention the traveling?

So I'm going to leave you with a song, that this Mr. is currently grooving on. He's having some issues, with a friend or two. I think this song, just tells it, like he feels it. "Be yourself, by yourself, stay away from me."



In the meantime, I'm going to grab some lunch. And my favorite pillow. Probably change into a comfy sweatsuit. And crack open the books. It feels good, to get to study, such life changing things.

Have a great week friends! Most of my posts this week, will be scheduled. But I will "pop in" from time to time. Happy Sunday! ♥

Baby Sandals

I just found this adorable pattern on Crochetville! And Baby C, immediately came to mind. Yes, she did! I've already started these cute baby sandals. Actually, I have 2 pair going right now. :) And this pattern is super easy! These baby sandals work up really quick. I just couldn't imagine making anything cuter. These little Daisy Sandals just scream summer to me. I hope Baby C enjoys them! Now I just need to finish them. ♥

The Broken Hearted

Saturday was a kinda weird day. I tried to stay busy. Extra busy. Because every single time I stopped, I thought about my friend. Two years ago, we were preparing for her wedding. Leisurely waiting for "our guys" to finish working. And hoping our dresses "made it" in time for the nuptials. It was supposed to be the happiest day of her life. This past Monday, would have been her 2nd Anniversary. Sadly, her divorced was finalized on that date instead.

Weird how I felt weird all day long. Like something wasn't right. Or something was missing. Like something just wasn't right. I could tell that My Guy was feeling the same way. Weird huh? But we were the padrinos for the wedding. So we took the divorce personally. Especially since these were just not friends. But our best friends.

Anyway that you spin it, I feel somewhat "broken hearted." So much has happened since that day. That incredibly busy, happy, and magical night in the desert. A Sin City wedding. We all joked about it. Planned in less than a month. But it was beautiful. Magical. Breathtaking.

A few months later, we were all broken hearted. I remember my friend looking for a necklace like this. Just so the world would leave her alone. They'd see her broken heart. And just understand. We never did find that necklace. And time has healed. A precious baby is also making all of it, a little bit easier.



I tried full heartily not to hate T. I tried to forget about that date. I tried. I really did. But I just can't let it pass by. My friend was hurt so bad. And Baby C deserves a loving Daddy. I know God is making good, of all the wrong that have happened. Lives are improving. And well, things are just getting better. But it's still tough.

One day, we'll all look back on this chapter of our lives, and we'll see how much we've grown. How this experience was necessary in our lives. How it made us grow. Made us stronger. Brought us closer together.

Until then, I need to find a way, to make this particular Saturday, full of love and happiness. It's not so much the date that bothers me. But this particular weekend in our schedule. I guess I'm the one that's feeling "broken hearted." Which is really weird. But when you truly love your friends, you feel all their pains as well. ♥

Infant Leg Warmers

With all the cold weather that we've been having, I just want to sit and crochet. Crochet lots and lots of warm things. Like leg warmers for babies. For Baby C. She needs warm things like this. Especially now that she's in the hospital.

And she needs cute things. You know, Baby C is a "Fashionista in Training!" At least, that's what I hear. ;) I'm thinking, I need to make a few pairs of leg warmers. I haven't decided if I want to try matching hats, or matching headbands. What do you think? Maybe hats. Because she needs to stay warm. You know, so she can grow big and healthy. :)

I found this pattern at Alli Crafts. She happens to have so many great patterns. What a talent! So I'm going to try and stay warm today. Hopefully get some crocheting done. And maybe make a big pot of homemade soup. Stay warm everyone! ♥

Updates on Baby C

Today Baby C turns a month old! I can't believe it's been a month! So much has happened. Good and bad. But prayers are still needed. Definitely needed! Today, Baby C is also having surgery. Why? To have her feeding tube moved. And to check her intestine. She is having a difficult time when it comes to eating, and gaining weight.

Since her birth, Baby C has lost weight. And hasn't been able to "feed" like a "normal baby." But she is staying strong. H is also doing so well. I'm so proud of her. Because they've been through so much! And she is still so incredibly strong.

Hopefully with this surgery, Baby C will start gaining weight. We all want her to grow. And in 7-10 days, they'll try bottle feeding again. Very exciting news! Because it means, Baby C is getting closer to going home. :)

Barracuda has a lot to do with H and Baby C doing so well. He is spending so much time with them. And I personally know, it's good for the 3 of them. They're becoming such a close little family. And I think it's good for them. H needs someone to love her, and to be there for her. Barracuda, he's ready to settle down. He wants a family. He wants Baby C. See, even if her biological father doesn't want to be in the picture, God has sent her a Daddy to love her. :)

So I need to get moving. I need to go say some extra prayers for Baby C. There are so many important things to do. But I honestly can't wait to see Baby C after she gets out of surgery. Knowing that the doctors have fixed some of the things that are plaguing Baby C. I really can't wait until she gets to go home with her mommy. And just to get my mind off of things, I really want to make these beautiful shoes for Baby C. I'm pretty sure that she would enjoy a new pair of shoes. ♥

Fall Inspiration

Carah's video was definitely, just what I needed this afternoon. Something fun to take my mind off of work. Actually, it did more than that. It got me so excited about Fall! And about fashion. And about this trip.

How did this one video do all of that? Because it made me want to go shopping for some Fall clothes. Pieces that embrace the cool weather. And if you've ever been to Sin City, you'll know, the shopping is great here! Absolutely fan-freakin'-tastic!

So now, I'm excited about being in Sin City. I'm thinking I can squeeze in a shopping trip or two. Who knows. Maybe pick up some things for me, my friend, and Baby C. See there can be an upside to all this traveling for work! ♥

Hard Stuff

Today, I had to leave for work. Tough. Especially when I have to be in Sin City for a week. I didn't want to leave my friend. Or Baby C. That's tough. It's been just over a week since their horrible accident. But even I know, sometimes you need to put on your "Big Girl" panties. Life isn't always easy. And it never stops. Even when you're overwhelmed.

Besides, they're both getting the best possible care. They have so many people taking care of them. And visiting. Like My Guy's family, and tons of friends. And there is always the phone and the computer. I can keep in touch with them. We're going to survive this week. And before I know it, I'll be back to holding Baby C.

The only thing that made this day bearable, My Guy decided to come with me. He'll only be here until Thursday. Because he has to work in the SE. But I'll take what I can, when I can. I'm determined to make this a good week. :) ♥

A Day of Blessings

Today was such an amazing day! It was a blessing. Straight from God. My friend got to meet her little girl. For the first time! Since she was unconscious for Baby C's first few days of life. And then, they were 3 hours apart from each other. At separate hospitals.

But this morning, my friend got to be transferred to a nearby hospital. She was in stable condition. And they flew into the hospital where Baby C is. I short visit was scheduled before my friend had to go to the hospital where she will recover at. My friend and her baby girl got to meet. It was so special. And so emotional. I cried. Everyone that was there, they all cried. It was such a touching moment.

I mean, she's been waiting 9 months to meet her little one. They finally got to meet! And Baby C, you could tell that she knew her mommy. :) My friend was a little unsure of holding Baby C at first. Mostly because the entire right side of her body is bruised, broken, and not it's usually self. She didn't want to drop her little girl.

But we got her situated. And she got to hold her precious little girl. It was so emotional. We all cried! Her brother, her sister-in-law, Barracuda, My Guy, and myself. Because we knew how special this moment was. Just days before, I wasn't sure if either of them were going to survive. And here they were, staring into each others eyes. So perfect!

My friend had already asked me, a couple of days ago, for a favor. To call our priest. To make sure that he could come and baptize Baby C. We planned everything. We just needed my friend to be there. So the minute I heard she was being transferred, we called our priest back.

And he was so pleased to hear the good news. He called another priest, to do his 2nd and 3rd masses for him. And he came to the hospital. Ready to help us celebrate such a miracle.

My Guy and I had already picked up Baby C's baptism dress. We had done that earlier in the week. When we had to go get W. And pick up some of Baby C's things. Carefully we dressed Baby C. And we got to baptize her. She looked perfect! And this was such a special moment. A moment in time, that I'll never forget.

Now, we are forever bonded. More so than before. Yes, over the last week, I've become so close to this little girl. But now the bonds are deeper and stronger. Through the will of God. My friend cried. Like she told me, this week has been a blur. Nothing that she expected. But she was just happy to get to hold her little girl.

My Guy's family cooked a yummy dinner and brought it to us. A traditional Southern meal. It was perfect. And it gave us all a little bit of time to relax. And to enjoy each other's company. It's been a tough week. This was a moment that we all needed.

And before my friend had to leave, she was being taken to the hospital where she would be recovering at, we went back to see Baby C. My friend cried. She didn't want to leave. But we gave her a long visit with her daughter. Just the 2 of them. To talk. And to encourage the other to fight. This is going to be a long recovery for both of them. And they need the love and support of the other.

It was a touching day. A day that I prayed would come. Both my friend and Baby C are so special. I'm glad that they finally got to meet. And to enjoy each other. It was incredibly special. A day that I'll never forget. And a day that I will always thank God for. ♥

For Baby C

I just finished this little mobile, for Baby C. The pattern is from the May or June issue of Crochet Today. I can't remember. I have it in my stash at home. But it was something that I wanted to make for Baby C, long before she was born. Time just escaped me.

Until now. While I've been sitting here, next to her crib, I've been crocheting. The hospital can be such a cold and sad place. I know, she's in a Children's Hospital. And things are generally a lot more playful. With morals on the walls. But I want her to have something special. Something that will make her stay a little bit more peaceful and happy.

I know. It's pretty nuts. Maybe I just feel better, by making Baby C something. Like it's my little way of helping her heal. I'm not sure. I just wanted to make her something that would comfort her. And make her days a little brighter. Anything to make my Goddaughter's life a little easier. ♥

The Importance of Family

We all have this vision of what the "Perfect Family" should look like. A Mom and a Dad that love each other. 2 or 3 healthy kids. Maybe a few pets. A nice home. Etc.

But sometimes in life, it's just not that way. I know this. From my own, real life experience. I come from a blended family. There are 9 kids. My Dad's ex-wife lives down the block from my parents. My siblings and I don't necessarily get a long. They're all much older than I am.

But the one thing I can always count on, and I mean always count on, is my parents. If anything were to happen to me, they'd be there. In a heartbeat. I wouldn't have to think twice.

For my friend, it's not the same. Her dad left years ago. Her mom pretty much disowned her, when she met T. When her life started to improve. And she was cut off from the rest of her family. So right now, as her and her baby are fighting for their lives, they have no family. No blood related family.

T he is still legally my friend's husband. He is the father of Baby C. But he wants nothing to do with them. This man that was supposed to love her forever, he can't be bothered with this minor detail. He refuses to see their daughter. In fact, his only concern was the hospital costs. I'm not lying!

family is more than just the people that we are related to because of DNA or legal papers. Family is also created. From amazing friends. The people that love you the most. And that, my friend and her baby girl, they have that. They also have T's sister. Who is splitting her time between my friend and her baby, and T's other infant daughter. We're all grateful for her!

It doesn't make it any easier. We're trying to track down a few key people. A few that I know really love my friend. But that she hasn't been able to talk to in over 2 years. I hope that we can find them. I think it's important for her to have their love and support. It's also important for them. We don't know which way this is going to turn out. It's tough.

I will be here no matter what! This is where I belong right now. I'm their family. So is Barracuda. And My Guy. And their families. And so many friends. We're all important at this time. Because we're their family. And we'll be here through it all! Because that is what family is all about. Being here through the good and the bad. We love you both! And all we want is for you to recover. ♥

Still Praying

It's been another long and tough day. Both my friend and Baby C have had multiple surgeries. The one bit of comfort, that has come, is from knowing that the man that did this to them, is safely locked in jail.

It's been tough. I still haven't gotten to talk to my friend. They have her medicated to keep her asleep. She has lost so much blood! And is so beat up. The Midwife has also had multiple surgeries. It just makes you feel so small and helpless. I just want to help them all. But there is nothing that we can do.

Baby C, she is a miracle of God. She is holding strong. From her outward appearance, you would never know that anything is wrong. Well, except that she is hooked up to all these machines. And well, it just pains me. She had another surgery. And is being fed through a feeding tube in her belly. Talk about tough.

I feel like I can't leave her side. Her mommy wouldn't want her to be alone. And that's going to make the rest of my week tough. Because I have to work. Just like Barracuda and My Guy. I don't have a job that I can call into. I have to get up every single day and just go. It's hard being in a band. When there is only one of you. And only you can do the job.

But I believe in God. I know that he will make it possible. He will do what is best for my friend and her little girl. And also for the Midwife. He will do what he thinks is best for the other driver. I'm not going to judge or condemn anyone. I just want for these 3 innocent lives to be OK. I want them to be healthy and happy again. I want for my friend to be able to hold her little girl. To raise and love her. Just like she's dreamt over the last few months. ♥

Good News, Bad News

So much has happened in the last 24 hours. 24 hours ago, all I wanted was for My Guy to have an amazing birthday. And for Baby C to be born healthy. For her and her mommy to be healthy and happy.

Yesterday evening, My Guy and I were on our way to Sin City. We were going to celebrate his birthday. He had had a long weekend. And I wanted him to enjoy the last few hours of the weekend. I had talked to my friend, and she was finally in active labor! 9 days after her due date! I asked her if she wanted us to go home. She said to go celebrate My Guy. She wanted that. And that we could come see her and Baby C today. Because she knew Barracuda would be on his way.

Barracuda had had an amazing day! He was so happy. And was just ecstatic when I told him the good news. Yes, Baby C was definitely on her way. We had all waited so long! And "Uncle Barracuda" was on his way to see my friend. :)

During My Guy's birthday party, we got the one call we didn't expect. The one that we never saw coming. We could have never dreamt up. My friend had been in an accident. A drunk driver had plowed into her Midwife's car. While they were just a few miles from the hospital. It was a bad accident. And both were now in the hospital.

My Guy and I didn't hesitate. He called the airport for clearance. I didn't have time to talk to anyone. We were just running out the door. This was way too important. By the time we got to the hospital, my best friend was in the ICU. Having come out of the first of many surgeries. She looked so weak, and pale.

I cried. I couldn't help myself. It shocked and scared me. You would think, I'd be used to this. I work in the hospital. But I'm not used to my loved ones being the patients. I was still in shock. Hours before, we had been talking. She was so excited about Baby C's delivery. Now, she was fighting for her life.

After talking with Barracuda, we decided to go check on Baby C. She had been moved to another hospital. A nearby Children's Hospital. I didn't know what to expect. During that 20 minute air trip, and short commute, we finally saw Baby C.

I wasn't fully prepared to see this little girl in the NICU. Hooked up to so many machines. Having already been through one surgery. To say that it was tough, that was an understatement. I never imagined her birth would have happened like this.

This beautiful little girl, she should have been in her mommy's arms. She should be breastfeeding. And enjoying her first few hours of life. Instead, she was fighting for her life.

These last 24 hours, they've been a blur. Everything from enjoying a nice dinner and some dancing with My Guy. To sitting in a cold hospital, just praying that these amazing 2 spirits will survive this.

My Guy's family, they've been amazing. Right here. They've stayed with Baby C since she was moved. And they haven't left our sides. Barracuda and his mom, they've been with my friend. Together, we just pray. And try to be a comfort to our loved ones. There's not much more that we can do. But pray. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers. They are going to need all the help and support that they can get. ♥

Time to Celebrate

My Guy is done working. And there is a surprise birthday party to get to. Shhh! Don't tell him. He doesn't know a thing about it! Yes, on our way home, we're stopping in Sin City. He thinks I have a work event. Nope, he has a birthday party to get to. :)

Oh, and one of my very best friends, she and I just got off the phone. She's in labor. And heading to the hospital in a bit. Yes, Baby C just might be born today. As in 10/10/10. And My Guy's birthday. How cool is that?

We have a lot on our plates. But it's going to be fun. This coming week, it's also going to be a lot of fun! I have to work all week. But it's all for a really good cause. To benefit lots of kids. Yes, it's going to be a lot of fun. But for right now, I'm going to enjoy my time with My Guy. We have his birthday to celebrate. And the birth of our Goddaughter! ♥

Waiting...

My best friend is now 40 weeks and 5 days pregnant. Yup, she knows exactly when she got pregnant. Because she's in the middle of a divorce. So she knows when Baby C was made. :)

My poor friend. She's uncomfortable. And HUGE! And she just wants to meet Baby C. My Guy and I are going to be her Godparents. And we're so excited to meet our new Goddaughter too! But Baby C is just chillin'. Waiting. And making us wait forever!

Today, while My Guy was working, I spent time with my best friend. Just hanging out. I went with her to her "Non-Stress Test." Which looked good. We got to hear Baby C's heartbeat, and we got to see her beautiful little face. She is amazing! And oh so beautiful! There are just no signs of her birth. She's just comfy as can be. And well, her induction is planned for October 15th. That's 42 weeks pregnant!

My best friend and I decided to embrace one last day of "Single Lady, No Baby Fun." We went out to lunch. Boy did we eat! This was the first time in a long while, that my friend has really enjoyed a meal. And I'm so glad I could share it with her.

But we couldn't stop at just lunch and the doctor. Oh no! We did some shopping. You know, just for my friend. We may or may not have bought her some luscious new blankets and PJs. We also got her some fun makeup and nail polish. You know, the fun stuff. And I took her out for a little bit of pampering. As in Mani-Pedis. And a luscious massage or two. :)

Yes, it was a lot of fun! We did lots of shopping. We may or may not have bought out a Baby Store or 2 along the way. Um, that was the only thing that My Guy had told me to do before I left. Was to buy lots of stuff for Baby C. And we sure did! Lots of cute dresses, big bows, and fun toys. All I have to say is that Baby C is going to be one very stylish little girl! Yes, she is also going to be so spoiled!

And as much fun as we had today, we can both agree on one thing. We're ready to meet Baby C. I just wish that My Guy and I don't have to be in California this weekend. But it's work. And we can't get out of it. Hopefully, Baby C waits until we get back. Or maybe she will be born on her Nono's birthday. :) ♥