Like eggnog? Go make this now.... like RIGHT now!

Source: starsflourpower.blogspot.com via Crispin on Pinterest

We had dinner with some friends this weekend and I made this YUMMY Spiced Eggnog Bundt. I am telling you people, it was shear deliciousness! Christen Crum--- RIGHT up your alley! It was mmm...mm....good and as far as baking recipes go--- pretty easy. If your looking for a holiday dessert I highly recommend this baby! 

Baby Number Two Finally Has a Name!

Marcelle Claire Deneault 

Well, the Christmas cards went out yesterday and with them, the declaration of our name choice for our sweet baby girl! Tyler and I have decided on Marcelle Claire. Marcel is Tyler's Dads' middle name-- following French protocol, we're going with the feminine version- Marcelle. And Claire is Tyler's Grandmother's middle name. I absolutely ADORE the two names together, they remind me of Mary Claire, which I deem as one of the most southern names, EVER. So don't be surprised if we (hahah, I ) stick with the double name, I just can't stop saying them together :) Absolutely love it. 

For those of you that know Tyler's Dad, Connie, I know, I know, I'm playing with fire by naming my sweet, innocent little babe after him. I've already relented that this child will be much like her brother-- one stubborn, strong-willed, adventurous kiddo, but with Connie's strong masculine points also come some very soft and wonderful points. I hope Marcelle is as kind as him and as good to strangers as he. I hope she is gregarious and confident like him. If she inherits any of these traits from her namesake, she will be one lucky kiddo and this Mama will be one very proud Mother. 

So that being said we are very excited to be welcoming sweet little Marcelle Claire this March and cannot wait to be a little family of FOUR!!

Mommy Tricks!

I don't know about you, but I LOVE a good Mommy tip or trick every now and then! I love it when my girlfriends' tell me about something their doing differently with their kiddo(s) and it's WORKING! Bc let's face it, as cute as they can be they can also be stubborn little tyrants (hah! or at least mine can be!). So with that said, I'm not claiming these tips as "my own," per se, but no one told me these, so I thought I'd share them with you bc they really seem to be doing the trick lately!

1. Deli American cheese melted on veggies! Um, hello, I could put styrofoam under melted cheese and I think my kiddo would eat it. Homeboy loves some American Cheese. I buy frozen organic veggies at Costco- broccoli, Veggie medley, Cauliflower etc. When it's time for lunch/dinner I throw some in a bowl, dash of water, microwave for a minute, take out, strain, throw a slice of cheese on top, put back in the microwave for fifteen seconds, stir and WA-LA.... the kiddo eats ALL of his veggies! It's a miracle. Can't get this kid to eat a chicken nugget to save his life, but veggies--- we got that down!

2. Socks on the hands when I'm changing a poopy diaper! Who knew?! The " Squirmy Baby" commercial has NOTHING on my child when it comes to squirming on the changing table, to the point where I DREADED changing a poopy diaper, but recently when I occupy his hands with something he can't immediately chuck off the table, it works magic. Enter socks-- when you put one on each hand, they totally can't figure out what to do, they work diligently to get them off! While you do a quick change-er-roo, your child is completely side tracked. I'm telling you- easy peasy. Try it.

So, no ridiculously interesting blog post here my friends, but I thought for you Mommies, you might like to hear a few things that have been " working," in the Deneault household recently! What about you, got any great tricks worth sharing?!!?

Weekend Recap and YUM Recipes!

Whew! I don't know about you, but weekends during the Fall seem to FLY! This past weekend on the eve of my thirtieth the hubs organized a little dinner party for mwah! Of course, in true Crispin fashion, I took absolutely ZERO pictures. Grrr, my resolution for 2013---- take pictures! But, none the less, it was incredibly sweet of the hubs and super fun to get together with some of my nearest and dearest! Truly luck to have met such sweet, wonderful women!

Then on Saturday we trekked to New Braunfels for WurstFest! We met up with our friends from Dallas, went to the festival and hung out at their campsite! Ford had a BLAST "attempting" to ride on this scooter-- over and over and over again....

That night, once we got home, we tried a new baked Mac N Cheese Recipe that we found on Pinterest. Folks.... TO DIE FOR..... 

It's adapted from a 2004 Southern Living, so if that tells you anything.... You can find the recipe here. 

On Sunday, we had a "catch up day," meaning, we rand errands, played outside and had an extremely early visit from Santa, thank you to our local grocery store, HEB. 

What's funny is how unafraid of everyone Ford is.... He walked straight up to Santa, said, "Hi!" and crawled into his lap. Not sure how safe this is, but hey-- it was darn cute at the moment :)  

And then, last but not least, T made these YUMMY beef enchiladas last night. Also DELISH! And the lady snuck zucchini in them for a bit of added nutrition, which is always a plus in my book. 

Seriously, we devoured them. They have a bit of spice, so be careful if that's not your thing, but gosh they sure are good! You can find this recipe here. They make a TON, so next time the hubs and I will make two dishes out of it and freeze one for later (FYI).

Hope you all had good weekends! We are getting a cold front today, which has this Mama jumping for joy! Me and the Little will be spending some extra time outdoors, getting lots of energy out!! Little is REALLY into discovering rocks lately, so I'm sure we'll be doing lots of this....

Have a great week! 

It's a GIRL!

That's right folks, this Mama got her dream come true! To say I am thrilled, elated, excited, flabbergasted, etc. don't seem to cover the emotions, I'm feeling--- I'm just.... happy. I would've loved my child--- boy OR girl, but gosh to be blessed with one of EACH?! I just feel truly---- lucky. 

When the Nurse said, "It's a girl," I literally broke down and cried. Cried right there in front of the nurse, the hubs, and Ford. After the year I've had, I think God knew I needed this kind of news. I think he knew, I needed a little girl to love unconditionally, remind everyday how much she is loved and how special she truly is. I needed to be a mother to a little girl; needed it from the depths of my soul and the core of my heart. God granted this prayer and I just can't find the words to express how deeply thankful I am for his blessing. 

I walked out of that doctor's office, looked up at the sky and said a little thank you, not only to God, but to my Grandpa, who in my heart of hearts I believe must have put that little bird in God's ear. Or at least that's what I'm going to believe :). After all, Grandpa's do know best. 

Forever....

"Forever could never be long enough for me, to feel like I've had long enough with you...."

I cannot believe four years of marriage and two years of dating, have passed already. It seems like yesterday you walked into Harvey's and changed my life forever. 

You are my heart. 

Happy Anniversary Hubs 

love, me 

Best date night idea..... ever.

So, hubs and I have recently started to plan, "date night meals," which means we switch off who gets to pick the meal, but then we work together to make it! We originally got this idea from the movie, Julie and Julia--thinking it would be cool to work through Julia Child's famous cook book; BUT, when we bought Julia's, Mastering the Art of French Cooking, we found it was more of a teaching cookbook than a really GREAT recipe cookbook, so we more or less decided that we could pull the recipe from anywhere as long as the meal was something we deemed worthy of a five star meal :)

So for our first attempt, I choose something I KNEW would be yum, but took a ton of prep work, Oxtail Soup. Which I know sounds disgusting, but I SWEAR it is the most decadent, amazing soup you will EVER taste. My Mom made it every Fall growing up and it's something that conjures happy thoughts. You can find this recipe in the Joy of Cooking (which if you don't have this staple cook book you should buy, immediately). If you don't have this book, you can find a prettttty close version of the recipe here. This was AH-MAZ-ING!!! 

Then we made Braised Beef Short Ribs (Tyler's choice). Ummmmm, DELISH! I had never had a short rib and honestly when we bought them in the store I thought they looked kinda fatty, BUT holy smokes these things are awesome! Simply put, this recipe makes them taste like a SUPER decked out version of pot roast.... they are divine. In fact, since we made them we've been hankering for them again and again.... so yummy! And I'm not going to lie, the Swiss Chard, makes the meal, so don't skip this step! You can find the recipe we used over at Smitten Kitchen or you can just click here. You can thank me later folks--- yummy! 

This weekend Hubs and I have been toying with the idea of either trying our hand at gnocchi or risotto. Anyone have any KILLER recipes for either of the two? We'd love your suggestions!

What about ya'll? Do you have any fun date night traditions?

Ford digs the park!

This weekend was absolutely gorgeous in South Texas so we took Senor Ford to the park! He's getting to be such a wild man and we NEEDED to release some energy! Here are a few shots of my cutie patootie! I cannot believe how fast he's grown--- it's WILD!

Hasn't he become such a big kid!?!? Where'd my baby go? I guess it's a good thing I've got another on the way, pretty soon this little one won't let me snuggle him up, like he does now! 

So What Wednesday!

Today I'm linking with Life After I "Dew" to tell you about some of the things going on around here in the Deneault household, but like most of my posts I've just got to be down right honest.... so here goes..
So what if...... I crawled into bed last night at 6:30, I'm pregnant, I'm allowed. Right?
So what if....I've had to give Ford benadryl the last couple of days due to mosquito/spider bites and I've been praying LOUDLY that it makes his naps longer.... 
So what if.....I was patting myself on the back a few weeks ago for getting my Christmas shopping on early, but now I'm REALLY wanting to just go ahead and give Ford the toys now... oops. 
So what if......I've got my baby girl name picked out and have been calling baby number two by "her" name for almost a week now.... Hah, better be a girl! 
Speaking of gender reveal, we scheduled our gender sono with our doctor  (they make you wait until 19 weeks!)  for Halloween, grrr.  So what, if I'm seriously considering going to one of those boutique sonogram places next week (15weeks) so I can find out.... I'm ANXIOUS people....
So what if.... I walked into Ford's closet yesterday and noticed that my baby keepsake pile was getting obnoxiously large and actually considered throwing it in a box and maybe just decoupaging it or something (to make it look cute) as opposed to creating a baby book (worst mother of the year, I know...) I mean a baby "box" could be "pin" worthy----- maybe, hmmmm?????
So what if I turn THIRTY in exactly one month and ELEVEN days...... I'm still young, right??? 
Hmmm, I could go on and on, but Senor Ford just finished breakfast and this Mama's gotta clean up one big ole mess, have a good day! 

What happened to my sweet little angel??

Yikes, Senor Ford has gone from cute to trouble in a matter of days! Geesh! Suddenly, I no longer have an innocent and obedient child; now I've got a fearless RASCAL on my hands..... So far this week he's tried to shove a knife in an electrical outlet, thrown everything but the kitchen sink into various toilets throughout our house, and climbed on top of our coffee table and decided to stand up.... Yep, I see many trips to the emergency room in the near future... If I didn't color my hair I'm SURE you'd see the arrival of MULTIPLE grey's, after the last seven days I've had with Ford....Wow..... 

And as for the word, "No," well, let's just say Ford is none to pleased with this word. We're talking full blown, bang your head on the ground ( doesn't matter if we're in public or not) temper tantrums. This Mommy is laying on some tough love this week folks bc seriously, that's just not ok in our household! Thank goodness Daddy has a better poker face then me bc most of the time when I try to tell my child no, he's just so stinkin' cute that I flat out cave.... Dadda is definetly the disciplinarian in this household, for sure, but like I said- I'm working on it!

I swear I'll be happy whether number two is a boy or a girl, but gosh.... if it is a boy.... is it bad that I kinda hope he's a little "nerdy," and NOT as rough and tough as my existent child??? Hah! One can dream, right???

Weekend Recap

It poured cats and dogs in San Antonio this past weekend! So we spent a lot of time indoors, just relaxing! However, the rain held out for a bit Saturday morning and we were able to swing by the Farmer's Market downtown at the Pearl Brewery. Every time we make the thirty minute trek downtown Tyler and I inevitably decide we're moving...... like tomorrow. We just LOVVVVVVEEEE older homes and the city feel. We love the weird people a downtown attracts and the eclectic nature a city creates. Sounds weird when I'm married to THE most conservative person I know,  but what can I say, we like people--- different people, and the interesting conversations you can have when you surround yourself with people who have different beliefs, upbringing's, backgrounds etc. Not to mention, T and I love a good " fixer-upper!"But, as usual, as we wrapped up our tour of all our favorite areas downtown we decided we'd be buying more lottery tickets bc that's what it would take to get into that zip code! Grrr. One can dream, right??? 

Anyway, here's a cute pic of the boys, walking around the farmer's market, so cute!

We also stopped off at a local fish market bc they were having a helluva sale on Maine lobster, It just so happened, two weeks ago Goop sent an email regarding the perfect "Lobster Roll," and this former Northerner has been craving this delicacy EVER since. It's tragically unfair that I have an allergy to this yummy crustacean, but I admit, I sneak a few bites here and there whenever it's available :)So we met up with our neighbors and in true Deneault fashion, we bought WAY more than we needed and hubs froze a bunch. When I say "a lot," I'm not kidding, here's proof as the boys clean 'em (slightly ridiculous I totally agree).... 

And finally, if your interested and like oatmeal, I made this yummy oatmeal bake from pinterest for Ford and I to eat on all week- it's yummy! Probably wouldn't serve it while entertaining bc I don't think there's a pretty way to serve it, but it's perfect for me and the Little! 

Source: sohowsittaste.com via Crispin on Pinterest

Well-oiled Machine

So, I'm laying in bed early this morning, annoyed because my internal alarm clock has woken me up at 6:00 AM and it's Saturday for pete sake and like most Mom's, now that I'm up, I can't turn my dang brain off. Grrr. Just as I'm about to roll out of bed and start my day the hubs sleepily rolls over and wraps his arms around me. Normally, I'd shake him off and continue on, but we've been REALLY busy these past few weeks and it feels good to get a little love, even if he's asleep and doesn't know he's loving on me :) 

As I lay there this morning, I couldn't help but thinking how lucky I am and how loved I feel. NOT because my husband is some amazing romantic machine (sorry honey, but your not) but because there is absolutely no one on this earth better equipped to take care of me, love me, and keep my heart safe. 

I've been having a lot of conversations about him lately. A lot of my friends think he is the epitome of the "good hubs" so when they get in arguments with their significant other, or they're dating some jerk-a-mole, they call and ask me, "what would Tyler do..." kinds of questions and I always say- GUYS HE' NOT A SAINT!!!! GEESH! BUT....... this week I found myself saying a few things that really got me thinking AND for once appreciating some of the smaller things my husband does do, that often go unnoticed by me, his over emotional, super hormonal, nutty, chaotic, preggo wife. 

I guess what hit home the most is something I said to a friend about the way Tyler shows love. I told her, that despite all the things he does in a given day to annoy me (hah we've been together for six years- there's a lot)   I know, without a doubt, that he always puts Ford and I FIRST when it comes to his decision making. Whether it be a simple decision like "what am I grabbing for Take Out" or a much tougher decision, like " how long can I be on a business trip away from my family," we're always first and he absolutely makes sure we know it. 

I thought about that a lot this morning, thought about our relationship, our marriage, and the life we're building. There is nothing more important than family, but above all there's nothing more important than your partner. Without them, there'd be no family, that's why we work---because my partner makes me a priority. Maybe not in the Chick-Flick inspired, romantic acts of love kinda way, but DEFINITELY in the-- your a part of this well oiled machine and without you, this machine wouldn't run kinda way :) 

Love you honey, thanks for this life and sorry if I don't tell you enough--- your my better half :)

Brain Dump Wednesday!

Ok, so this week has been a whirlwind, LOTS going on in the Deneault household, which means-- lots spinning around in my pretty little head!

1. I am having a really hard time focusing lately. I feel like I'm spend half my day walking around in a circle. Grrrr.... pregnancy brain has arrived.

2.  Ford had a "Hitch" moment today. You know the scene in Hitch where Will Smith blows up like a balloon after eating shellfish? Well, Ford didn't eat anything, but he got bit/stung by something and his ear and the left side of his face exploded! Scary stuff.... A call to the doctor and one big dose of Children's Benadryl, I'm hoping Senor wakes up from his nap and looks like my sweet babe again--- cross fingers!

3. We had a little bit of a health concern last week/this week for baby number two and I'm not going to lie, it's been weighing on my mind, HEAVILY, but after a few more tests, we got the news we were praying for today----- our bambino is healthy and it was only a false alarm. Thank Goodness. Sighing a major sigh of relief.

4. Ford is absolutely loving Mother's Day Out and this Mama is LOVING it even more! Everyone keeps asking me if I'm taking naps and or relaxing while he's at school---- Hello, people, my name is Crispin Deneault and "relax" is not in my vocabulary. I've been spending my time, sew, sew, sewing of course!

5. Speaking of sewing, Tres Bien is booming!!! Thanks so much to all my sweet friends who've ordered and promoted my little shop! Love you guys!

6. I am seriously DYING for all my Fall shows to start! All the previews have begun running on tv and seriously I'm so anxious to see what happens on Revenge and Once Upon a Time!

7. While we're talking TV, my Mother in Law suggested T and I watch Dexter awhile back and we never really got around to it. That is until last month and now we're ABSOLUTELY obsessed. Amazon Prime LOVES us, considering they charge $1.99 per episode.... We're already on Season Three! You do the math.... ouch. But seriously, it's an AWESOME show and uber, uber addicting!

8. I made this little number for dinner last night- I absolutely LOVE Pinterest! And so does the hubs, we've never eaten so well! Try it out, this recipe is DELISH!

Source: chef-in-training.com via Crispin on Pinterest

Hope ya'll are having a good week too! 

Sometimes God has other plans for you....

So, for those of you who know me, you know that baby number two was supposed to be something Tyler and I were planning on getting to, NEXT Summer. In fact, this whole entire Summer, I've been on my soap box about how GREAT a three year gap between kiddos would be. Quite frankly, the idea of a second child right now, when I'm just starting to get my arms around this whole "Mom," thing, sends me into a panic attack of epic proportions. Seriously.

Don't get me wrong, a second child was in our, "plan," and I am nothing short of thrilled that we are blessed with the opportunity to raise another sweet babe. I'm just a little nervous about the semantics. TWO children, twenty-three months apart..... holy smokes! But hey..... that's life.... right? If Tyler and I have learned anything as a married couple, I think it's just to "roll with it." God has a plan and I just have to keep reminding myself to just let it be, sit back, and enjoy the ride, his ride....

So, with that said, and a really big deep breath, I thought I'd share with ya'll how we found out about our impending little nugget......

When my Grandfather passed away, he had a contagious bacteria in his intestines, so when I got home from FL and had all these stomach "issues," I just assumed I had caught his bug, which the Doctor assured me that for "healthy" people would pass relatively quickly. Two weeks later, I hadn't eaten a thing, felt utterly disgusting and was majorly stressing out. Then suddenly, the Saturday before our family beach trip, I woke up CRAVING a Quarter Pounder with cheese, I'm embarrassed to admit---my signature pregnant food. Tyler looked at me and said--- YOU ARE SO PREGNANT. Sure enough six VERY POSITIVE pregnancy tests later --- we were convinced! 

Needless to say, we've since gotten over the, "shock." and are extremely excited to welcome our new little one sometime in late March! In the meantime, I'm doing everything I can to remain healthy and not turn all gigantic "Jessica Simpson," again. I'm not giving into my cravings AND I'm still working out almost everyday. So HOPEFULLY this time, I won't gain SEVENTY POUNDS! Cross your fingers- PLEASE!

In the meantime, my goal is to kickstart my blogging efforts again and take you all along for this fun-filled ride! So if your interested, check back for fun preggo/mommy updates!  I promise they'll be more often :)

Thank you, as always, for your love and support! 

Ford would like to share a secret with you.....

Orzo Pasta Salad....A sure fire, crowd pleaser!

This is my absolute favorite summer recipe. If you invite us to a Summertime Potluck we make it and if we have ya'll over for a barbecue, you can be sure it's on the menu--- we LOVE it! It's easy, makes a ton, and someone always wants the recipe! So here goes, hope you like!

12 ounces orzo pasta
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 1/2 cups  crumbled feta
1 cup chopped red pepper
1 cup chopped yellow pepper
3/4 cup pitted and chopped kalamata olives
4 green onions, chopped
3 tablespoons, drained, capers
3 tablespoons lemon juice
1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
1 tablespoon minced garlic
1 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 cup olive oil
1 package pine nuts, toasted


1. Cook orzo according to directions, drain, rinse in cold water, drain well, then toss with 2 tablespoons of olive oil.
2. Add feta, bell peppers, kalamata olives, green onions, and capers
3. Combine lemon juice, vinegar,garlic, oregano mustard, and cumin in small bowl.
4. Gradually whisk in remaining olive oil
5. Season with salt and pepper, to taste
6. Add dressing to orzo pasta, toss and blend.
7. Toast pine nuts, add immediately before serving.

**I like to make this salad the night before and then toss in the pine nuts right before we leave for a party or our guests are about to arrive. The time in the fridge really lets all the flavors blend and in my opinion makes it that more YUMMY!

Enjoy!

Yay for Friends!

Well, I think it's safe to say the Deneault's have "gotten their groove back!" Ford and I are finally starting to make some really good friends! San Antonio, a year later, feels like home; thanks to special friends like Miss Mattie, Miss Emma, and Miss Kate!  Now we just need to find Senor Ford a few boys, to hang out with, not that Ford's complaining obviously, look at these cutie pa-tooties! :) 

I used to be a human.

So as a Mom, I'm sure you've heard over and over again "You need to put yourself first!" and of course this line works wonders when I hire a babysitter to watch my child so I can steal two hours to get my hair done (when I force myself to schedule it!). But realistically, the rest of the time, it's an ongoing battle.

I have to honestly admit----I am soooo not one of those Mom's whose got it all together. You know the ones I'm talking about--- The Moms who go shopping with their children, and casually push the stroller around Nordstrom's with their latte's while their calm child let's them browse the shoe section--- yah, so not me. Or the Mom that run's around in her workout clothes and looks adorable and effortless (did she even work out!!!??!?), yah, not me either. I WISH!!!! I just have not mastered the art of looking like a human while raising children. Hopefully, I'll get better, uhhhhh maybe?

Children's constantly changing schedules make it hard to find time for yourself. And as a new Mom, I find that my biggest "struggle," is my guilty conscience. Even as I type this, the internal battle between "what I want to do," and "what's best for Ford," is waging inside my head. As usual, Ford's winning.

Ford has been sick on and off for about two weeks. He started with cutting his final molar, then he got a stomach bug, then he got a nasty cold. So for two weeks, he's been going to bed later, waking up earlier, taking inconsistent naps and well, just plain puzzling his Mama. Even when I've had a quiet moment to myself, the fear of him "waking up," has almost paralyzed me from starting anything for fear I'll be interrupted with a crying baby.

The one quasi "consistent" thing is his nap "time" despite the longevity of the nap, this child is like rain man when it comes to his nap--- must go down between 10-11 AM. I had hoped that all the inconsistencies would help push it back, but alas no, we're still an early napper. Which on a normal day makes it hard bc all Ford's buddies (like most NORMAL children) take an afternoon nap. Meaning, if we want to hang out we've got to do it super early! It's a pain!! The morning's are usually my time (we run errands, go to the gym etc.).

So, with all that said, this Mama is tired and I'm  honestly wondering.... How do you Mama's do it? Especially you Mama's with two, three, FOUR kids..... Oh god, that's just terrifying.....How do you make time for your child(ren), make time for your husband, keep your house sort of clean, and still feel like a human???

What's the secret?????

Sometimes I just really miss home.

Ok, so let me just say for the most part, I really dig SA. And generally I'm pretty happy here in the Lone Star state, I really am. But right about now when the weather's hot, the sun is super bright, and there's not a drop of salt water in sight---- I start aching for my hometown of St. Petersburg, Florida. I'm a beach girl to my core and spending more time in cowboy boots than swimsuits just hasn't become old hat yet.... This girl needs a saltwater breeze and a boat drink! 

The problem is... every time we go home, we're so consumed with whatever event we're going home for--- a holiday, a baby shower, a wedding, etc. that we never get to just chill and do any of the things I miss so terribly about my little piece of heaven. Usually we're at this house, then this house, then saying "hi" to these people etc. It's a whirlwind, we're in, we're out and then before you know it's time to go!

 I haven't been to the beach in almost two years or on a boat since we moved..... THAT'S A LONG TIME!!!!!! I'm grateful that we've got a beach trip to look forward to this August in Gulf Shores, Alabama, but I sure wish we could sneak into the Burg for a little R&R. Grrr! But for now, I guess I'll settle for our little Community Pool; even though we're not "supposed" to bring cocktails, maybe I can slip a little mojito in my Tervis and pretend I'm at the Sand bar..... :)

Long time no see....

So, I swear, it wasn't my intention to take a month off from blogging, but holy smokes---- it's been a BUSY month! 

So what have we been up to?? Well, if you follow me on FB you know we had family in town. They'd never visited us in SA, so needless to say- we showed them the town.... You know, SeaWorld, Schlitterbahn, The Alamo, etc....  and yes Senor Ford tagged along for all of it- he was such a trooper! We had a blast, but I cannot lie, if I never see another theme park again, it'll be too soon :). 

Then, immediately after they left, I hopped on a plane and headed to West Palm Beach to celebrate one of my besties nuptials. In true Crispin fashion, I didn't take any pictures, argh. But here's one that I stole from my friend Ashley.... The wedding was a blast and as much as I missed my boys, it was fun to have a little "time off." Wasn't KT stunning???

During all these fun festivities, my little etsy shop, Tres Bien, has truly been taking off! I've received more support then I ever expected and I can't thank you enough for helping to make Tres Bien such a big success. I love having an artsy "outlet," especially one that helps pay for Mommy's little shopping addiction. :) So a big thank you to anyone who has "liked" the shop, referred a friend, bought some cute little onesies or tees, or just sent some love my way! I really appreciate it! 

Tres Bien

So, anyhoo, that's what I've been up to! I promise it won't be a month before I post again! Even though, I haven't been writing, I've kept track of all the things I've thought about blogging, so get ready-- I've got some fun posts coming! 

Hope ya'll are having a GREAT Summer!

It's crazy around here!

My schedule has gone all kinds of crazy lately and well this Mama is EXHAUSTED and frankly- off her game. Tyler's been out of town during the week for the past two weeks and let's just say--- single parenting is not my forte, that's for sure! Coupled with Ford's molars coming in and the thunderstorms we've conveniently been getting in the middle of the night which wake up my light sleeping child and my truly NEUROTIC dog..... I tell you, I'm keeping my eyes open with toothpicks, I swear. 

I don't know what it is, but when T goes out of town, my schedule does too. I haven't eaten a solid "real" meal in two weeks. I mean, who wants to cook for one? I haven't gone to the gym (probably because I haven't had three hours of solid sleep in two weeks), and I've had a weeknight glass of wine, one too many weeknights, which, hah, also might contribute to my absence from the gym. I'm a walking, talking, train wreck of a zombie....  

Needless to say this Mama is VERY excited for NEXT week, when my hubby will be home, hopefully Ford's molars will have come in, the weather will be better, and I'll get some MUCH NEEDED sleep, but  for right now, I'm in the trenches people, the trenches I tell you, bare with me and my sporadic posting, I'm coming back--- I swear :). 

Oh you little pistol.....

Today was a rough day. Ford has his molars coming in and he is NOT a happy camper and well, who can blame him---- ouch. But, honestly by five PM this evening I was counting the minutes till the kid went to bed. The crying and the whining had taken it's toll. I put him down around seven and then he woke up in a tizzy around nine- completely inconsolable. I rocked and rocked him and finally brought him into my bedroom where I laid on the bed with him as he clung to my neck whimpering.... He finally cried himself to sleep, but then as I tried to move and wrangle my way lose from his grip, he just grabbed tighter over and over again. He was not letting his Mama go--- be still my heart. This child can be moody, stubborn and well, honestly, a downright pistol, but God when he's sweet.... watch out, he's got his Mommy wrapped around his little finger...... And then it occurred to me, he's kinda like someone else I know. I guess it's true what they say--- the apple doesn't fall far from the tree. I love the TWO pistols in my life more than words can possibly express; I am one lucky woman. 

Feeling blessed. 

Mom was right.....

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Time  does go by, it goes by so, so, so fast....

But that's not "really" the point of this post. Actually, it's to moan and groan ( just a little--- I swear!) but it needs to be said--- I'm having a moment...

Wasn't I young like yesterday??? What the heck happened? This past weekend I was checking out at our local grocery store when a big "CHECK customer's I.D. if they don't look at least THIRTY" popped up on the cashier's screen. Guess what? The high school kid ringing me up, did NOT ask for my I.D. and NO I didn't have my child with me..... shoot me, apparently I'm old. I wanted (actually I still want) to punch him. 

Then hubby and I were flipping through the channels this weekend and came across an episode of Friends that we love..... but guess what---- It was on NICK at NITE people! I remember when Mr. Ed, The Mary Tyler Moore Show, Dick Van Dyke etc. were all on Nick at Nite! Surely Friends isn't old enough to be on Nick at Nite, seriously!? We (I) were flabbergasted. We checked the original air date..... Ok, ok so it was seventeen years ago, BUT STILL where does the time go!!?!?

Yesterday morning when I was having my morning cup of coffee and watching GMA--- a nice British newscaster was doing a segment on Prince Harry. He explained that while "Kate and William were rolling into their middle age, Harry would keep the Royals young....." Kate and William are NOT middle-aged! She's twenty-nine for goodness sake!!!! Seriously, I'm twenty-nine- I AM NOT MIDDLE AGED!

And finally, the icing on the cake came when I opened my Lilly Summer Look Book and saw all of these fourteen year old girls parading around in the shortest shift dresses EVER. Clearly, something I will not be wearing this Summer as I chase my one year old around-- I about had a coronary! I have loved Lilly my whole life and let's be honest her style (up till now) has always been a bit "older," and now when I'm finally hitting the age where I still want to be cutely dressed, but want to be comfy, Lilly goes and seemingly revamps their whole line and gears it to a younger crowd---ugh. 

I don't mean to drone on and on. And seriously age doesn't scare me, or even really bother me. I love the place I am today and frankly wouldn't trade it for all the twenty-one year old, in-experienced moments in China.... I just can't believe how fast it's gone.... I went to bed fifteen and now suddenly I'm waking up (gulp) thirty!?!?!? Mom was right, time does fly and seemingly even faster when you have children. 

Just yesterday I could've sworn the media was claiming forty was the new twenty and now they're telling me twenty-nine is middle-aged. Someone just take me out to the pasture and shoot me because next thing I know, tomorrow I'll be old and senile. So I guess the point that I'm getting at is that we should all just enjoy life right now, at this very moment, because tonight you may go to bed thirty and tomorrow you might wake up eighty..... I'm just saying..... 

This weekend only.....

Hop on over to Tres Bien and stock up for your summer beach trip! 

I'm guest blogging today over at TeetheMe!

Hi Guys! Sorry I've been MIA, but check it out, I'm guest blogging over at TeetheMe today.... What's TeetheMe you ask.... Well, it's only the coolest baby shower gift, EVER! It's a monthly box of 4 to 5 products for your child aged newborn to 3 years old, which are delivered straight to your door. C'mon, what new Mom wouldn't love this?! 


Akemi, founder and CEO is a friend from home and one heck of a role model if I do say so myself. Not only is she a Mom, but she's one of the most hard working people I know. This girl does not take no for an answer.....I do not say this lightly---- she's AMAZING.


So hop on over to Teetheme and check it out!

Happy Friday!

Getting ready for the weekend!

Yikes, I am running around like a Ninny today! My "I'm not planning a big party" for my one year old, kind of went out the window.... Well, in my defense, I did marry a Deneault, and for those of you that don't know the Deneault's- specifically my husband.... If you say party, my husband's first thought is... "We gotta have LOTS of food...." And when I say "lots" I mean enough to feed a large army. My husband is kinda OCD when it comes to having enough food for his guests. I blame his Dad (jk Connie) and the forty two pot pies and then the eighty two meat pies the boys would make every holiday season for absolutely no one in particular!

So now that we've got that out of the way, help a girl out and if you live in the area, PLEASE feel free to swing on by and help me eat my way out of my house bc yesterday hubby came home and told me he ordered SIXTY POUNDS of crawfish and a couple (which in his language probably means like twenty) pounds of shrimp..... UM, we have twelve people coming over, some of which don't even eat seafood, like ME! For Pete's sake, if all this food is gone by Saturday night I will eat my words (no pun intended). Seriously, my husband has issues.

So think of me this weekend drowning in seafood..... Here are a few pics.....

Ford will be wearing this

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I will be making these.....

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And Tyler and hopefully ALL of our guests will be putting a dent in this.....

Hope Ya'll Have a GREAT weekend! 

For life's "bleachable" moments.....

Every time I see that commercial of the child running out of the bathroom to to tell his Mom "He made Poop," and then she excitedly runs into the bathroom to see that her child did in fact "make poop," just in the wrong place i.e. the bath tub, I say a little hallelujah that fortunately I've never experienced this. Because frankly people, poop still grosses me out. I know, I know, I'm a Mom I should be used to it, but seriously it makes me want to gag. I still have to trick my mind into going elsewhere when I change Ford's dirty diapers for fear that I might upchuck on my poor child......

Which brings me to last night...... his birthday evening.....  where my little hallelujah went up in smoke bc he did it, he POOPED in the bathtub. People,  I almost DIED.... My husband on the other hand, died laughing, as he looked at me and said "Honey it's your night to give the kid a bath, which I guess makes it your night for clean up duty!!!!" Ford of course, cool and collected, just stared at me, like "What Mom? Stop freaking out it's totally natural...."

OH.MY.GOD........ disgusting.......

You see folks, the one thing I've learned in this CRAZY year of first time parenting is every parent has good days, bad days, and down right DIRTY days. It comes with the territory I guess, but if I'm honest (hah! which you know I always am) I really wish the "dirty" days could come on the days it's Tyler's turn to give that boy a bath!

Ford turns ONE!!!

Happy Birthday to my sweet, sweet boy. You have changed our lives forever, we love you!

Happy Due Date Senor Ford!

Hard to believe, that a year ago today I was eagerly awaiting the arrival of my little handful! A year ago today I was getting a pedicure, full body massage (pressure points people!), eating spicy foods, taking rose caplets, etc. trying ANYTHING to make this baby budge, but in true Ford fashion he had to come on his own time, so we waited FIVE more days to meet Senor Ford. But in honor of his "almost" birthday, I thought I'd share this little family video. Hard to believe it's been a YEAR!!! Time flies....

Introducing Tres Bien.....

Tres Bien Boutique

I've been busy ladies and gentleman! Please tell me what you think! 

Hello Pre-Baby Body....

here

Oh how I have missed you! Yikes! Well, first, let me just say I didn't mean to not blog for two weeks, it just sort of.... happened.... life has been busy..... So, as you can probably guess by the title of this post, I'm finally weighing in at my pre-pregnancy weight. And actually, if I want to be really honest I'm actually two pounds less than I was when I got pregnant... Yay, go me. :) All one hundred and twenty THREE pounds of me have worked their tale off to get back into shape! And, honestly, I've enjoyed losing  it, way more than I thought I would.

I started working out slowly, Baby Boot Camp, got me back into shape and got me on a schedule I could live with. I lost sixteen(ish) pounds thanks to Ms. Erin. The girls were so supportive and not only did they help me lose weight, but helped me become confident in my new found job as a Mother. I hate to be all dramatic, but in some instances they truly saved me on some of my "Oh CRAP, what did I get myself into?!!?" days. ( Trust me "almost Moms"- you will have these days and it's nice to have others that have been there). I would highly, highly recommend a group like this to any new Mom.

Then Ford started getting a little restless and needing more "go" time versus stroller time, so around nine months, we started hitting the gym. I only meant for it to be twice a week, but we've gotten into a GREAT schedule where we now go five days a week, every morning first thing. It's awesome for a few reasons--- 1.) Ford gets time around kids his own age and other adults besides me. 2.) It's a GREAT outlet for me. I can drop him off with people I trust and generally the same kids and go exercise for an hour without wondering if he's ok.  It's perfect! And let's be honest, free child care!?!?! I'm all about that!

So, what have I done to lose all SIXTY.... yes, you read that right.... SIXTY pounds?? Well, I'll give you a few of the tricks I've had up my sleeve....

1. I use a heart rate monitor. It rocks, not only do I know where I stand during my workout, but in the end I know exactly how many calories I've burned. LOVE IT!

2. I try to make it a goal to burn 500 calories per workout. Period. If I don't reach that number for whatever reason, you can bet your bottom dollar I'll be out for a vigorous walk with Ford in the afternoon.

3. I watch what I eat. I don't "diet." because frankly I have ZERO will power. But, I try to limit my carb intake as much as possible during the week and I tryyyyyyy (try being the optimal word) to make drinking alcohol a weekend activity.... Grrr, why is red wine so good!!!??!? I load up on veggies, and try to always have precooked and frozen salmon, chicken etc. in the freezer for protein packed salads or snacks.

4.) I drink water like I'm a camel. Not sure if this is a Texas thing, or a pregnancy thing..... but ever since I got to Texas I drink water like it's no one's business. Then just when I thought I couldn't drink anymore, I got pregnant and did in fact drink more..... Not sure, but when they tell you to make sure you get about nine cups a day, well, I've surpassed that number by lunch. I'm a CAMEL people!

5.) Change up your workouts. I've got A.D.D. when it comes to working out. I need change or I get bored and I slack, so I do a little bit of everything. I spin, run, do yoga, and participate in some of the classes they offer at the gym like Total Conditioning. It keeps me interested AND trying my hardest. I ran a steady five miles this morning and about flipped. I used to be the girl that rand a quarter of a mile and was beyond winded..... not anymore!

Just a few things that have really helped me on this Weight Loss Adventure that I thought I would share with anyone who might be interested. The last thing I will say to all you preggos out there is to just be FAIR to yourself. Every Mother told me it would take about a year to lose the baby weight and I scoffed at them, thinking, they just don't know how hard i'll work...... it'll only take six months..... Well ladies, I can honestly say I worked my tail off and it did in fact take a full year. So be patient. Hopefully your not like me and didn't blow up like a whale, but if you did, have no fear, you can lose it too :).

A few new things I'm really digging.....

Ok, so I have a few new things I've really been loving lately and I thought I'd share......

1. O.N.E. Coconut Water. My SIL got me hooked! One 8 oz. glass has more potassium in it than a banana! What does this mean? I'm less sore than I would be after some of my intense workouts. I have a glass every morning and I'm telling you it reaaaaalllllyyy helps with aches and pains!

2. Boogie Wipes. At first I thought these things we're the biggest "New Mom" gimmick, ever...... BUT I'm telling you people they get ANYTHING off my son's face. I carry them everrrrrrrrywhere! Love!

3. Threading! I use RetinA on my face, so sadly, I can no longer wax my eyebrows, but ladies..... Threading is soooo cool. It doesn't hurt anymore than waxing did AND (in my opinion) your eyebrows look WAY more manicured...... big fan. 

4. Boyfriend Denim Shorts, from Gap. First, there soooooooooo comfy. Second. They look cute with long or short sleeve, cardigan or no cardigan. Absolutely perfect for the "in-between" weather we've all been experiencing lately. 

5. Knockout Roses. Hubby and I re-landscaped our front garden beds this past weekend. We ripped out everything and instead, planted Knockout Roses. Supposedly they are impossible to kill and bloom Spring thru the first frost. Perfect for my lovely little black thumb.... 

What about you? What's striking your fancy this week??

Forget the spoon.....

I'm going in......

So we're not a big fan of eating with a spoon folks. Unless, you count waving it around like a magic wand or gnawing on it like it's a ribeye.... Still, I'd have to say he's one cute, messy kid :)

Mama's any tricks to helping the little master this skill????

Happy Friday!

Have a wonderful weekend :).

Red Peppers... It's whats for dinner!

Have you heard of Gina's Skinny Recipes? I'm obsessed! Gina's recipes absolutely rock! Tonight I'm making Turkey Stuffed Peppers and I cannot wait to devour them, the filling tastes delish and the aroma coming from my oven right now is absolutely mouthwatering! You can find the recipe here. Enjoy!