The Style Paige

Colored Denim

2012-02-02T13:00:00.001-06:00

My fave trend for spring is all the BRIGHT BRIGHT colors …especially in denim. Here are my favorite looks in colored denim! I want them ALL!!!

How cute is this coral pair for spring? These are on top of my WISH list

REALLY loving all the pastels!

Ok…I can not live any longer with out PINK JEANS!!!! I just can’t

This pink pair is only 39.50 at Old Navy

There is just one small problem….I’m pregnant and none of these are maternity…I’ve searched high and low for colored maternity jeans….and today I hit the jackpot X2!

Both these babies are from Motherhood Maternity and each on sale of $29.50. BUT they were out of my size online. So I called the store in Flowood and put my size on hold. The salesgirl tells me they are $29.50 each BUT they are BUY ONE GET ONE FREE!!! Wait….can you repeat that?!?! So basically I’m running to Motherhood Maternity tomorrow to snag these babies!!!

20 Weeks

2012-02-02T12:50:00.001-06:00

Hello Ladies and Gents! I apologize for my lack of blogging but we’ve been moving for 2 weeks and I’m exhausted! We finally closed on our new house and its lovely! I just love it. Its so nice and BIG but surprisingly we have enough stuff to fill it up (with the exception of furniture…weird right?) We rented out our first home as a “fully furnished rental” so I left all my furniture I was tired of and took what we wanted to keep! So instead of just packing up and moving I’ve been trying to furnish 2 houses!! Needless to say we are still in boxes and without some pretty important pieces of furniture…patience is my friend these days. I’ll post pics when its all said and done!

In other news…I’m 20 weeks along with Steven III! (Yes he will be Steven Roy Caldwell III. We are still deciding on whether he will go by Tripp or Steven, input is welcome) Ill be 21 weeks tomorrow! But I figured now was as best time as ever to update ya’ll on the baby bump!!

I seem to be a bit smaller this go around but I’ve really been trying to keep my weight gain under control. I go to the doctor tomorrow so we’ll see! I didn’t start showing until much later this time (because I haven’t been eating everything in sight this time! ha! and I’m trying to exercise as much as possible). I feel alot smaller in my body than I did with Stella. I’m still able to wear alot of my regular clothes (jeans and pants with the hair band trick!) I just started really feeling him move around alot in the last few weeks, days even. I read back to this blog post and I just started to feel Stella move around this time too!

Thus far my pregnancy has been so different than with Stella. It think this has alot to do with not having time to dwell on the fact that I’m pregnant! With Stella it was all I thought about, but this time around I don’t have that luxury (especially with a 16 month old at home). I’ve just started to get REALLY hungry…I’ve been eating what I normally would until the last few days. I’ve been getting HUNGRY people…and if I don’t eat I get lightheaded and feel like I’m going to pass out! All in all this pregnancy is FLYING by! And moving isn’t helping slow it down!!

I have been really worrying lately how I can love 2 children as much as I love my 1 child now. My mom said my love multiples and I know it will. I just want to love him as much as I love Stella!!! I’m also concerned at how she is going to react. She isn’t really good at sharing…especially sharing her mommy!! So please pray that this little girl understands!!

Hopefully Ill get to start on his nursery soon but first we may need living room furniture! HA

Here’s a pic of my sweet angel to get you through the afternoon…cutest kid ever.

We also go to the doctor for her 16 month check up tomorrow so she’ll be getting her own post soon!! She is getting so smart! Where did my baby go??!?!

New York, New York

2012-01-18T14:00:00.001-06:00

Can’t believe it has taken me this long to update ya’ll on the most fabulous Babymoon EVVVAAAA! Steve took me to NEW YORK CITTAAAYY for New Year’s Eve. AHH-MAZZINNGG! It was an experience of a lifetime to say the least. We stayed at the uber fabulous W Times Square. (Sidenote: They had most amazing boutique right by the elevators and it was open 24 HOURS A DAY!)

This place was right smack dab in the middle of times square. I will admit I LOVED being right in the middle of all the action, but next time we return to NYC we’ll be staying somewhere else a tad bit calmer….ha!

We were there for 4 full days and let me tell you… we shopped.till.we.dropped. Absolutely insane! Steve promised me one full day of shopping but the thing about NYC that I LUURVE is that even when you are “sightseeing” there are stores right next door. I do believe we visited every single H&M in the city. Seriously ya’ll. By day 4 Steve refused to go in another H&M.

We were there on SUCH a busy weekend….we didn’t get to do alot that we originally planned to do because the lines were OUT OF CONTROL. But we did do sooooo much. Being 4 months pregnant and walking miles and miles around NYC is not ideal. I was wiped out by day 4. I didn’t think I would ever be able to feel my legs again. (BTW: I would be sooo skinny if I lived in NYC, walking everywhere). However, I would gladly relocate to the city that never sleeps….immediately.

Sorry for picture overload….

TIMES SQUARE!!

St. Paul’s Chapel…near ground zero

NYC Firetruck responding to a call…so dramatic

China town…the only Baptist church we saw in the city! ha!

Steve and I at Rockerfeller Center (tunic-F21, jacket F21, leggings- H&M, boots- Fab, fur vest- dillards, beanie (best purchase of the trip) – f21, gloves and tights- american apparel)

Rockerfeller Christmas tree

Radio City Music Hall

Something odd at the MET

view of Times Square from our room….can you see the 1.5 MILLION PEOPLE?!?!?!!?

Me and the baby bump ready (17 weeks) for NYE! (Blouse- boutique in Soho, sequin skirt - H&M, patterned hose (with feet massagers) –drugstore in times square, lace up wedges (not pictured) – Fab in Soho.)

Our view in the crowd

Times square NYE

Grand Central Station (leopard scarf- H&M, sweater- old navy, jacket, F21, beanie F21)

Inside the Empire State Building

My dream come true Macy’s on 34th street (my fave Christmas movie is Miracle on 34th st and its always been my dream to see Macy's decorated for Christmas!)

our hotel ceiling on NYE

American Girl Doll Hair Salon…Stella will LOVE this place one day!

Saks window display…swoon

Barney’s Window Display

Steve with a creature in Saks

Macy’s on 34th St….LOVE

And there you have it ladies and gents. Our trip in a nutshell. I want to go back…like tomorrow.

The only downside was leaving my sweet Stella. I’d never been away from her overnight before and leaving 3 nights was a little rough. I made it…barely. She was in good hands, but I sure missed the little lady.

Worst Blogger in History

2012-01-10T10:34:00.001-06:00

Hello old friends. I want to apologize for falling off the face of the earth. But can I just make an excuse for myself? Being pregnant, working part time, and chasing after a 15 month old is hard work yo. This is what my life has looked like over the past month…..

A big smiley mess!! I had such a wonderful Christmas with my little family and Ill blog about that soon ( I know no one wants to read it this late, but I need to document Stella’s 2nd Christmas). I’ll catch ya’ll up in a later post but I have big news….da da dum…Stella’s going to have a baby…..

BROTHER!!! We are overjoyed for this blessing in our lives. I’m so excited to bring a baby boy into this world and thank my God for giving me this opportunity. I know Stella will be such a great big sister (and I’m sure a bit bossy like her mother). We wanted to have a “reveal” party but most of our parents live WAY out of town and we wanted them to be included of course! So we did a “LIVE online party”. Steve, Stella, and I ordered GiGi’s Cupcakes (the best cupcakes EVER) and Papa John’s and had ourselves a shindig! At 6pm we put a link on our Facebook pages to the live broadcast and everyone got to see Stella dig in to that cupcake….with BLUE on the inside!

I’ve already got major plans for baby boy! I’ve picked out the perfect seersucker bedding from Restoration Hardware baby&child and I’m on the search for a perfect crib set! His name has been decided and I’ll reveal that in a later post!

Stella waiting to find out if she was going to have a baby brother or baby sister:

SO EXCITED to have a baby brother!

The BIG reveal!

Lastly Ill leave you with a preview for my next post…..this was my New Year’s eve in NYC and it was FAB!!!

I promise I’ll fill ya’ll all in TODAY! Plus Im going to start my pregnancy journal again! I want to track how different its been from my pregnancy with Stella!

MIA

2011-12-13T15:26:00.000-06:00

Ya'lll once again I have been MIA. Let's just say I've been so busy I don't even know what day it is half the time. Between Stella, baby #2, Christmas (decorating, shopping, cards, etc) and Steve being in and out of town...by the time I get Stella to sleep all I want to do is sit in front of the TV and watch mindless reality TV.

So lets update on you lovely ladies (and men...errr) on whats been going on in the house of Caldwell....

1. As most of you know...we've been house hunting for some time now. In July we went under contract on the perfect 120 year old gem in a beautiful old neighborhood in Vicksburg....well after a home inspection that unveiled too many problems for us to deal with we had to pull out of the contract. You see...I have a love affair with old homes....our current "Starter home" is 100 years young and I love her but she's just too small. Insert August 2011...we decide to build in "East Village" a new development in Vicksburg that requires all the homes in the development to be built to "Old Vicksburg" characteristics (i.e. raised foundations, large front porches, sun rooms, etc) So for 3 months we poured over our plans of choice and finally reached an agreement. In early October we went under contract (our 2nd contract of the year). Fast forward 3 weeks and baby #2 is on the horizon. After much prayer, soul searching, pro/con lists, consultations, etc we decided that building a house while expecting a baby was not the best decision. The whole building process was moving much slower than expected and we really need to be in a bigger house by June....so we pulled out of house #2. Much to my dismay...I am still sad about not getting my new house. So here were are a month later....finally deciding on another home that just may be there perfect home for us....for now. Ill update ya'll on the home when we close...cause apparently...contracts don't mean nothing to us....

2. NEW YORK CITY! I know I've already made the announcement...but our plan tickets are booked and we have the most amazing hotel room ever. The W in Times Square, corner room with a view of Times Square and the Hudson River....I am beyond elated. I've never been to the City....and I'm so ready to be a real live tourist!!!

3. Christmas....does anyone else have an issue with buying too much? I think I always over do it.... and I really don't need to this year with our impending trip and house purchase. I just can't help it. I love buying things for others....especially my sweet stella girl. I've definitely over done it with her. Her father has cut me off from buying anything for her!

I think that's it friends.....for now... Stay tuned tonight! I participated in a Blogger Glitz and Glam Gift Swap!! My fabulous blogger friend sent me the most adorable gifts!!!!!

New Addition

2011-11-29T21:49:00.000-06:00

Hey peeps! Sorry I've been missing lately....we've had alot going on! I posted a few weeks ago about our newest addition....but I removed the post several hours later....why you ask?

Because I have such a big mouth I can't even keep my own secrets!

Yes friends....Steve and I weren't telling anyone until he got home from a really long trip to Seattle....oops. He saw my post and told me to take it down! Ha!

So anyway...STELLA IS GOING TO BE A BIG SISTER..seee:

Is that not the sweetest darn thing you've ever seen? Ahhh love that kid! We are so excited about our little surprise...and we know God has big plans for our growing little family. Baby number 2 will be here in June...just in time for some fun in the sun. I'm 12 weeks and officially almost out of the first trimester.

Its amazing how different this pregnancy has been from the last. I wasn't sick at all with Stella and I've been sick every day with this little one. Only one more month until we find out boy or girl!!

P.S. I sit here watching the VS Fashion Show with a growing baby bump and a fudgecicle....these girls need a cheeseburger....or 2. Eat something skinnies.

NYE-2k12

2011-11-17T11:06:00.001-06:00

Big news peeps! We are planning a trip to NYC for NYE! Can you hearing me screaming??? Cause I am! Ya’ll I have never been to the City and I am beyond excited! This will be my first time to ever stay the night away from Stella and that scares me. I am trying not to think about that!!! So…what shall I wear for this joyous occasion? GLITTER…SPARKLES….SEQUINS!

I have a glorious dress in my head…if only I could find it in a store. I’ve got to find the perfect New Year’s dress. Here’s a few things I have in mind…..'

This is my favorite! Its from ASOS and check out that back….ahhhhh

The front is nice and simple since the back is jawdropper. Love that.

My sis in law pinned this on Pintrest and I’m beyond obsessed. This is the perfect holiday dress….with minimal sequins. Check out those sequin cuffs. you could do so much with this.

I love this look…I always have…those sequins are TDF!

my friend Jordan pinned this and I LOVE this look!!!! check out that skirt. the whole thing is perfection.

This is a Vince dress from Barneys….let me tell you I will not be the owner of this dress….but it can’t hurt to dream!

What are your plans for NYE? Do you know where I can find an adorbs sequin dress???

swoon

2011-11-10T15:32:00.001-06:00

if only I had a place to wear these spectacular wedges….

OOTD

2011-11-08T13:17:00.001-06:00

Happy Tuesday dolls! One of my favorite things is looking at Outfit of the Day posts on blogs. I’m so intrigued to see what others are wearing and get outfit inspiration! So I figured I’d start posting OOTD’s too! Today’s outfit is entitled “I woke up wayyyy to late to care”. Ha!

Please ignore my pasty legs! I got one of my co workers to take this picture our office!

Shirt: Forever 21, Skirt: Gap, Shoes: Gojane, necklace: Francesca’s watch: Michael Kors

Shot of my desk….it makes me happy….too much?

For the Love of Leopard

2011-11-04T08:45:00.001-05:00

This girl loves some leopard. Yesterday while shopping a sales clerk looked at me and said “You really like leopard huh?” I looked down and I had on a leopard blouse and a leopard purse. Oops…too much leopard?

While my love of leopard is no secret (let me mention my child loves it as much as I do) I will be the first to admit that too much leopard can be a bit “Jerseylicious”. So here are my favorite leopard picks right now…just don’t pair them together like I did yesterday. Faux pas!

hello lovely…this chunky heel is too die for! This is the Steve Madden Sarina and right now it’s on sale for around $120 at Zappos.

The thing that I love most about these Steve Madden shoes is the calf hair. They aren’t just printed leopard (not a fan of printed leopard…love the calf hair though)

Old Navy…what what? I mentioned this shirt in a previous post. I would LOVE to have it in brown…but the grey is just as yummy. Sorry ladies…the brown is currently sold out.

These loafer flats are all over the blogosphere. And I’m in love. The JCrew version will set you back a pretty penny ($120 bucks at least) but luckily there are plenty of copy cats. Lulus, Gojane, and Urbanog all have their own versions for around $20 bucks. These will easily replace my leopard ballet flats that I’ve worn the heck out of!

OMG….this is gorg! I saw my friend Ellen with it awhile back and I immediately fell in love! Its everything you could want in a purse!

Check these babies out….leopard jeans. The key to making them look wearable and not like you just stepped off the Jersey Shore is the faded leopard print. It’s not so bold that it screams “I”m from Jersey” (no offense if you’re from Jersey :) ) I would pair this with a neutral top and shoes.

There you have it …. my fave leopard items. Tell me…do you share my love of leopard?

Halloween

2011-11-03T10:19:00.001-05:00

I guess you know you are getting old when you log on to Facebook and your entire mini feed is babies in Halloween costumes instead of girls in way too revealing costumes…..ha! I’m not complaining one bit though.

Stella was a sweet little bumblebee for Halloween. Actually she was a bumblebee twice. Once at our church “trunk or treat”. She put on those wings and decided she was a big girl and didn’t have to be held. We chased her all around that place.

Next she was a bumblebee on Halloween night. We went to the Brister’s annual Halloween party and Hayride. Stella loved it. Kids were packed on the hayride and we’d stop to get off and trick or treat. Stella wanted to walk to the houses instead of be carried so we only made it to about a third of the houses as everyone else! Next we visited Steve’s grandfather, dad, and sister for a little Trick or Treating action and finally capped off the night at the DeRrossette’s Halloween party.

Is that not the cutest bumblebee you ever did see? Oh and y’all know I couldn’t go a year without dressing up! Steve and I went at Steve Jobs and his Iphone.

13 Months

2011-11-03T10:12:00.001-05:00

The month since Stella turned one hasn’t been has hard as I envisioned. I dreaded the fact that my baby was slipping away. But a friend of mine said it best “You’re losing your tiny baby but gaining a sweet little girl”. And that’s exactly how I feel. My little girl is growing into the sweetest, funniest, little girl and I’m loving every minute of it. This little girl loves life and that, my friends, makes this momma very happy.

At 13 months she has mastered walking and running (don’t get me wrong there are falls and bruises that come along with this) She is a girl on the go and can’t be stopped. She doesn’t enjoy being held as much and would rather be wandering around. I’ve had to baby proof our house majorly because she just wanders around.

Stella at 13 Months:

1. Weighs around 21 or 22 lbs. I think she was 30 inches long at our last appointment. I’ll have to double check.

2. Girly girl to the max. She is her mother’s child. Necklaces, bracelets, purses, you name it she loves it. When I pick her up from the baby sitter she always has an arm of bracelets on. This months she’s fascinated by me putting on make up. She always reaches for a big fluffy brush and poofs it all over her face.

3. Like I said, she is a girl on the go. She is a busy bee walking and running around. Her favorite game is catch. She likes to run from me and when I “catch” her she giggles and giggles. So much fun.

4. She is eating soo good! For awhile there I was so worried about her eating habits because she was so darn picky and was barely eating. Well that has changed. She eats every chance she gets. She is still a bit picky though.

5. She hasn’t started “talking” but can say a few words; MaMa, DaDa, Eggie (Reggie), Ello (hello), doh (dog), ba (bye), and hey.

6. She cuddles up next to Reggie and gives him big bear hugs. Adorable. She also does the same thing to us and it melts my heart. She loves to snuggle up.

7. Since I stopped breastfeeding ( about 2 weeks after her 1st bday)…she has started putting herself to sleep at night and naptime. (I used to nurse her to sleep, worse habit ever). But now we read her bedtime story, say our prayers, turn on her light/sound machine and lay her in the crib. She stares at the light machine (its one of the projector things..projects fun pictures on the ceilings..best thing ever) and falls asleep. Don’t get me wrong, she fusses sometimes, but normally within 5 minutes she is sound asleep.

8. Sleeps from 7:30 to 7am.

Stella is so much fun and I can’t imagine our lives without her. She is a bucket of energy and is oh so dramatic. (ehh wonder where that came from)

New Name, Same Blog

2011-11-03T09:53:00.001-05:00

I’ve wanted to change the name of this dandy little blog for some time now. I really don’t feel that “Keeping up with the Caldwell’s” accurately describes what I write about. So…the Style Paige is born. What do you think? Keep it or go back to the Catching up???

Bulldog Baby

2011-10-18T15:40:00.001-05:00

We had an absolutely fabulous albeit busy weekend. Saturday we dragged ourselves out of bed at ~~5:00~~ errr 5:30am and headed to Starkvegas to watch the Bulldogs play. Luckily Miss Stella was still pretty sleepy so she was easily entertained by Steve’s Ipad playing Aladdin on the headrest (best thing ever). Monday was my brother’s birthday so we had big family tailgate to celebrate. We had a S-P-R-E-A-D! I still can’t get over the amount of food we had under three tents. Stella of course loved her 2nd trip to Bulldawg country.

matching her Aunt Melynda

my adorable little cheerleader

sleepy girl

bulldog family

scary pom pom man with her Nana

I got to finally meet Miss MaryCollis and see her Momma Annalee (who looks FABULOUS by the way). We made the trek back Saturday night with the help of Aladdin and the IPad. I wish we could have stayed the night but maybe next time.

How cute is that sweet little bulldog cheerleader?

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-13T12:31:00.001-05:00

There is a running joke in our family about the Pumpkin Patch. From the first year we were married I tried to convince Steve to go to the Pumpkin Patch in Rolling Fork (like an hour away) on September 1. I love fall and I wasn’t about to wait until October to pick out my pumpkins. So we have a tradition of going to the Pumpkin Patch. I was so excited to take Stella this year and let me tell you….She was in pumpkin HEAVEN!!!! This child loved being outside in the country.

As you can see…little miss had the time of her life!!!

On another note….I’m going darker with my hair…I never thought I’d say that HA! But I LOVE IT! Here is the darker version….Its not “dark” by any means. But its a darker blonde and I can’t decide which I like better.

Fall Must Haves

2011-10-12T10:38:00.001-05:00

Ya’ll I’m loving soooo many things this fall it was hard to choose just a few! The 70’s look is back in a BIG way! Think bellbottoms, lady like blouses, and wedges. AHHH! I love it! I’ve come up with a list of my favorites!

1. Wedges- LOVE THEM! They are both functional (as in super easy to walk in) and purrtty (lengthen your leg like a great pair of heels, almost ). And I have seen some Wedge boots (and booties) Steve needs to buy me ASAP.

love these black wedges…. halloween present?

get in my closet now…..thanks. No I’m serious..I need these asap. They could even look cute with shorts now and a button up chambray shirt with scarf. #1 on my wish list right now!

perfect for the cooler weather

2. Faux Fur- This continues to be one of my faves year after year. Every fall I can’t wait for it to turn cold so I can break out the fur vest…and Yes MAM I’m wearing it again this year. Although I may update this year for a grey or black (so rachel zoe-ish).

just like my faux fur vest…and 2 years later I’m still in love

got this last year in brown and I’m pretty obsessed with it. I didn’t wear it much last year cause I was a tad too large for the small contraption. But this year it should fit perfectly. Come to think of it I was a tad too large for most items last year.

3. Blouses- If you know me you know this needs no explanation. Hello, My name is Paige and I am a Blouse-aholic. I seriously can’t get enough of these silky oversized, menswear versions and the blousy ladylike ones alike! I have an addiction. I can not stop. I like to buy them a size or two bigger so I can wear them with leggings or skinny pants.

Just ordered this from Old Navy last week and is too cute for words. Tucked into high waisted jeans or a pencil skirt..LOVE.

love the stripes on this one.

My friend Callie featured this on her blog last week. I’m kind of jealous she has the brown version, they were sold out of it so I it in grey and its fantastic. I’m embarrassed to tell you how many times I’ve worn it since I got it 3 weeks ago.

4. Colored Denim- I admit it. I was at first a skeptic….however I found the most glorious pair of maroon denim skinnies a few weeks back (Hail dear ole state…) and had to have them. Paired with the right top and shoes this trend can me super cute. I’ll prob be sporting mine at the State game this weekend.

I present to you the fabulous maroon skinny.

5. Chunky Heels- Goodbye tiny stiletto, you’ve done more harm than good to my balance. I’ve found a new love. One that will give me the same height but with tad more stability. Plus they look killer with bellbottoms and flare legs.

Hello maroon chunk…

Dear Steve, I think the below would be a fantastic Christmas present.

6. Flare Legs- Ok so I am still a skinny leg person, but I do love a flare leg (especially when paired with a high waist fit). You may remember a few months back I was on a mission to find a certain pair of Gap High Waist Flare Leg Jeans….seen here. Well Ladies, Ebay has come through for this sister! I scored a pair on Ebay last week, in my size for THIRTY DOLLARS!!! They came in Saturday and they are equally as gorgeous in person. They are a tad to big so I’m hoping a seamstress can fix them!

here they are:

a low rise version that’s equally as impressive.

7. Leopard..if you know me, you know my lifelong love of leopard. Thus, this requires an entire blog post of its own. Stay tuned tomorrow for my fave leopard items.

12 months

2011-10-11T16:27:00.001-05:00

HELLOOO…Could someone please tell me where has the past year gone. This seems like just yesterday

wowza….big momma

1st picture evaaaa

It’s been one year since God blessed us with the best gift we could have ever received. September 23 my baby turned one year old. My daily prayer is that I am the mother that God has designed me to be, the mother Stella deserves. As I rocked Stella to sleep tonight I thought about the past year, its been the best year of my life, without a doubt. This year I’ve learned patience, true patience that can only be taught from a child. Stella has taught me selflessness like only a helpless little being can teach you. And most of all she’s taught me love, the kind of love that is indescribable. Love that surpasses all other. The love of a parent and child. Often times I’ve thought “if God loves me a smidge of how I love Stella then I’m pretty lucky”. This year as a mother has improved my relationship with God tremendously. My eyes are open. When I look into those sweet innocent eyes everything else pales in comparison. This tiny tot was not so long ago a helpless newborn who’s every breath depended on me and her Father. How amazing is our God to trust us with these little blessings? I’ve laughed, I’ve cried, I’ve screamed, I’ve smiled, and everything in between but most importantly I’ve loved with all my heart. Sometimes I think my heart is going to explode with love for this beautiful little girl. (I know I”m cheesy).

Stella has changed so much from that tiny little baby to the big girl she is now. I just hope and pray that I am the mother she needs me to be. I’m sorry for all the sap….ha! Here’s what Stella’s ben up to this month:

First let me start by saying we have a little Miss Priss on our hands. This child is as prissy and girly as they come! She LOVES her purse and bracelets. She layers them on her arm and crawls around the house. Then she’ll put her purse one arm and stick her little hand out like she is the Queen B. She goes everywhere with “Dolly” and a purse. Everywhere. She loves to put stuff in her purse then hang it on her arm and take off.

1. She said her first DISTINCT word (besides MaMa, DaDa, and Doee (dog)). We play “phones” I’ll answer the phone and say “Hello is Stella there?” then I’ll hand it to her. Well a few weeks ago when I handed her the phone she said “HALLO”. Steve was sitting right there and we both were speechless!! I think I cried a little.

2. SHE’S A WALKER!!! About 2 days after she said her first word (big week for her) She started walking! She’s been taking a step here or a step there but one day she just stood straight up and walked clear across the living room! While she isn’t very fast and she’s still a bit shaky she is still walking quite often. She still prefers to crawl if she wants to get somewhere in a hurry.

3. LOVES her purse and bracelets. Anything that will fit over her arm she treats it like a bracelet. I picked her up from the sitter the other day and she said “You’ve got a girly girl on your hands” ha!

4. Weighs 20lbs 11oz and are 31 inches long! She’s a tad on the small side (but very tall) but I think she is just perfect.

5. Wears size 3 diapers and 6-12 Month clothing. She can wear some 18 month clothing especially pants.

5. At 12 months 1 week she was weaned from nursing….blog post on that later…this is a sad time for her momma.

6. She is OBSESSED with dogs. I know I say this every month but I find it so funny how she just loves every dog. Especially her pal Reggie. She squeals in delight when she sees him. She tries to cuddle up to him at all times.

7. Her little personality is really developing. She is so funny. She laughs and smiles at everything.

8. LOVES to be outside. Loves it.

9. She eats basically what we eat now. She refuses to let us feed her so she has to have bite sized portions of everything we eat. She loves chicken nuggets and fish sticks.

10. She sleeps all the way through the night and still takes 2 naps a day. She is getting really good with putting herself to sleep too!

11. She mimics everything we do. If we point she points. I just love it!

The past year has been a year of learning and I’m so glad that God gave us this sweet girl. I’m honored that I get to be called her mother.

Daddy putting together her “Princes Castle” for her birthday

Just playing in her Castle

Stella’s Sweet Shop – Part Duex

2011-09-28T21:44:00.001-05:00

I know Stella won’t remember her 1st Birthday Party but by gosh she’ll see pictures! If you haven’t read Part One you can do so here. I wanted to show ya’ll a few pictures of the Birthday Girl! Ya’ll she had so much fun, she was POOPED afterwards. She’s a little attention hound and loved every second of it.

I had so much fun planning my little angel’s birthday. I can’t wait to do it again next year (much to Steve’s dismay). I still can’t believe she turned ONE last week. Where oh where has the time gone sista friends?!?!

I genuinely think Stella had so much fun at her party and I’m so happy that all our family and friends were able to celebrate with us. My parents both came in town along with my youngest brother and my Nanny (LOVE HER), Steve’s mother and her boyfriend Mark were able to come. And of course the ENTIRE Vicksburg family and all our dear friends. My VERY pregnant friend Emily (who looks AHMAZING to be 9 months preggers) drove over from Brandon with her sweet little family. And my dear friend Brandi came from Natchez. So many people took time out of their lives to be there on this special day. Thank you for sharing this day with us.

Anyway…this mommy is getting her wisdom teeth out tomorrow so I’ve got to get some rest.

P.S. Shout out to Margie for taking the best pics EVER with her super fancy camera and cutie patootie camera strap. love it. (and her!)

Stella’s Sweet Shop : Part One

2011-09-28T11:47:00.001-05:00

So most of ya’ll that know me know that I’m an event planner part time (when I’m not home with Stella) and I LOVE every minute of planning an event. I must say I’ve done many events for work and I planned the majority of my own wedding, but a birthday party is an event in itself. I had so much fun working on Stella’s first birthday party. I knew I wanted it to be a special day all about our baby girl. I decided on the theme “Sweet Shop” because I did a candy buffet at our wedding and have since been enamored with candy buffets. And I knew I wanted it all pink. Is anyone surprised? I think not.

The party centered around the “candy shop” theme and included a “Candy Buffet”, “Ice Cream Buffet”, “Sweet Treats Buffet” and the signature drink “Pink Lemonade”. I have to say I was so excited about the way it turned out. See for yourself…(warning: photo overload)

Candy Buffet

This included many different varieties of pink candies. You’ll be amazed at where you can find pink candy. And any trick o treater that visits me this year will get just that: PINK CANDY!

Ice Cream Buffet

We served ice cream with a small toppings buffet. This was the one aspect of the party I thought about removing to keep costs down but I’m so glad I included it. It was probably the biggest hit of the party.

Sweet Treats Buffet

This was my favorite table because it was soooo delish. My sister in law made DOZENS of these fantastic cake pops…I told her she should sell them. I literally ate a dozen of them. My friend Ann made these adorable cookies….is she talented or what? I ordered the cake from a local supermarket because I didn’t want to pay a 100 dollars for a cake in Jackson. I told them exactly what I wanted and they delivered! So happy with the way it turned out.

The Decor:

Since this post is sooooooo long I’ll post Part 2 on the GUEST OF HONOR!! Sweet Stella girl! Here’s a sneak peek of my little pumpkin at the party!

Trend Alert- Midi Skirts

2011-09-27T16:39:00.001-05:00

I have to admit…at first glimpse of this fall trend I was a tad bit skeptical…these skirts reminded me of something my grandmother might wear. HOWEVER, after seeing them styled to perfection on various blogs and the September Issue of InStyle I’ve since changed my mind.

AND after a trip to Starkville and the Junction this weekend and seeing every little college girl don skirts smaller than Stella owns (seriously EVERY girl I saw had on a tiny, tiny skirt on.) Girls tight and short don’t work unless your office is on the street corner. You feel me? This is an epidemic people. Anyway, back to the midi’s, I have newfound love for them after the countless rear showing bandage skirts I encountered this weekend. (Sidenote: My friend Hillary said by the time Stella’s in college girls will be wearing bikini bottoms to the Junction. HA! )

Here’s a few of my favorite midi’s:

Top Shop Color Block Midi

Marc by Marc Jacobs Striped Bodycon Midi

Marc by Marc Jacobs Chevron Print Midi (My fave)

Tucker Dotted Midi

Ok so I know this isn’t a Midi, but its OH SO CUTE and much better than a blasted bandage hankerchief worn as a skirt!

Paige:A-Z

2011-09-22T16:39:00.002-05:00

I don’t normally do these kind of things but I secretly love reading everyone else’s sooooo WHY NOT?!!?

Age: 26
Bedsize: King . LOVE IT! Couldn’t go back to a queen.
Chores that you hate: LAUNDRY! I don’t think hate accurately describes my feelings toward laundry.
Dogs: Reggie Bush Caldwell (5)
Essential start to your day: Coffee and Devotion/Quiet Time
Favorite color: PInk, I’m sure this is no surprise to those who know me.
Gold or Silver: I am all about GOLD. I love it.
Height: 5'4
Instruments you play: nada….I’m the least musical person ever. no doubt about it.
Job title: Currently: Stay at Home Mom/ Marketing and Events Manager

Soon: Stay at Home Mom/ Real Estate Agent (if you’re looking for a house, hit me up!!)

Kids: Stella Grace Caldwell age 1
Live: Vicksburg
Mother’s Maiden Name: Cummins
Nicknames: Paigey, Pooh
Overnight hospital stays: I had a metal plate placed in my elbow after a wreck in 2005 and when Stella was born.
Pet peeves: When people are rude to waitresses, BAD tippers, people who talk slow, people who move slow (I know that’s mean and maybe its just because I’m always talking/moving so fast. Who knows I could be someone’s pet peeve.)
Quote from a movie or tv show: "My colors are blush and bashful.” “Your colors are PINK and PINK” – Steel Magnolias
Right or Lefty: Right.
Siblings: 2 younger brothers
Time you wake up: 5:30 on Tuesdays and Thursdays because I go in to the office. Around 6:30 or 7 every other day.
Underwear: ummm AWKWARD!
Vegetable you hate: carrots. ewwwk
What makes you run late: Everything. I’m always late. If I’m not late something is wrong. I, for the life of me, can’t be on time. I’ve tried. Many times.
X-Rays You’ve Had: When I crushed my elbow…hints the surgery in the earlier question.
Yummy food you make: You can’t mess with my Chicken Spaghetti or White Chicken Chili (but that's where my cooking ability comes to a screeching halt.)
Zoo Animal: I love the white alligator at the Audubon in New Orleans

Link up in my comment section and do your own!!!

11 month update

2011-09-22T16:23:00.001-05:00

I figured I’d get around to updated you guys on Stella’s 11th month of life since she will be one year old on Friday. ONE YEAR PEOPLE!!!! Excuse me, wasn’t I just pregnant (and 100 million pounds) just yesterday?!?!

Stella at 11 Months:

1. BIG NEWS BABY GIRL!! you took your first steps! While you aren’t fully walking (that will come soon enough I’m afraid) you take 3-4 steps at a time and then PLOP down on the ground. You are so FAST crawling and its much easier to get around.

2. I expect you weigh around 20 lbs and are probably 28 inches long. You are wearing 9-12 month clothing. Size 4 shoes (not that you keep them on or anything)

3. Speaking of shoes…you threw your first fit in a store…over a pair of shoes this month. WHile I must admit they were ADORBS…they were a tad to big. You were playing with them in your stroller and I put them back before we checked out and then it began. A.BIG.FAT.FIT!

4. You are still saying Ma Ma and Da Da but you now know who you are referring too. You also call Reggie “Doe”. I’m assuming this is your version of Dog.

5. You are a very picky eater. You basically love any pasta (especially ravoli)! Your other favorite foods are beans (of any kind), peas, pancakes, animal crackers, goldfish, mac n cheese, cheese, french fries, and grits.

6. YOu’re only nursing once a day (sometimes twice) and I think this night feeding is going to be ~~REALLY~~ hard to drop. But we shall see!

7. You are obsessed with Reggie. obsessed. You always crawl over and lay by him or hug him. He is really starting to love you too. Case in point:

8. You also love Vader too. You crawl to the back bedroom and stand up against he window to look at him all afternoon.

9. You are still napping twice a day. You had some issues sleepin through the night his month but it’s worked itself out and you are back to 8:00am-5:00am (then back to sleep until 7:00am)

10. Your hair has gotten so long. Its so sweet. We can put it in a cute little pony tail.

11. You are the sweetest baby, your tiny little voice melts my heart. You are most definitely a Momma’s girl and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

12. You have become really attached to your baby doll. She goes everywhere with you. You also LOVE to walk with your walker.

Brain Dump

2011-09-13T16:02:00.001-05:00

Lets face it…I’ve been an awful blogger lately. I always think of things I want to blog about but never actually sit down to blog. I’ve been meaning to do Stella’s 11 month post considering she’ll be 12 months…ONE YEAR OLD in just 10 days. I’m in denial. I really am. So therefore I keep putting off the 11 month recap hoping that will stall time and she’ll be 11 months forever.

Anywho…I’ve got alot of random thoughts on my brain and I’d like to dump it on you!

1. The Rachel Zoe Project : Is anyone else super, tremendously, PUMPED that Rachel Zoe is back on?!?! I literally counted down the days till the Rachel Zoe Project came back on. In 2 words…LOVE HER. Her style is TDF!! If I could have just 10% of her closet I think I’d be in clothes heaven. Now this season she’s pregnant and I get so exciting relating to her pregnancy and maternity styles. Not that I’m pregnant or anything (because I’m most definitely NOT, but I was like this time last year). She comes on tonight for episode 2!

2. Missoni for Target- ummm can we say CRAZY?!?! So I have been super excited that Missoni is doing a entire line that I actually may be able to afford (because lets be real I can not be spending $600 bucks on a scarf!) I figured I would get on target.com this morning and order Stella a signature zig zag Missoni sweater dress (or 2) and myself a few pieces and maybe even that TDF Missoni blanket. HOWEVER, upon going to target.com today the SITE HAS CRASHED! All these crazies (myself included) have crashed the website!!!! So what’s a girl to do?!!?!? See below for Stella’s Missoni dress that I’ve yet to be able to order!!

3. Random Tree Trimmer Men: I know this is random…but this morning I let Reggie out in the backyard and he escapes. What a surprise. I leave him running free for a few minutes when I hear him barking like a wild savage animal (he’s hardly scary, all 18lbs of him). I peek out the window to see a man in a sketchy (I’m talking about S to the KETCHY) old Ford truck. Said man is hanging out of his sketchy truck with a pair of hedge clippers (yes, my friends, hedge clippers) trimming a tree in our front yard. I immediately think this has to be a mistake so I march outside (with make up brush in hand cause I’m in the middle of getting ready, isn’t this is funny picture) and before I can say anything to him he jumps back in the old Ford truck and takes off down the street. Like TAKES OFF, like someone his coming after him takes off. He was cutting MY TREE. I’m so confused. I get a glimpse of his truck as its hightailing it down the road and I make out the word “Rusty” in black letters across the back. So my friends….I have few questions: Why would some rando cut a tree in MY front yard at 7:00am?!? Who just carries hedge clippers around with them?!? And if you see Rusty please let me know!!

order H&M Online! Today only!!

2011-08-31T10:00:00.001-05:00

Ya’ll OMGEE!! I was just having my morning coffee and browsing my favorite fashion blogs and I came across this ad…

hold up…what does that say?!?! Buy H&M ONLINE?!?!? Ya’ll know this is my absolute favorite store ever.ever.ever. But I normally have to catch a plane to shop these fabulous clothes (considering they are only located in MAJOR U.S. cities and they DON’T ship online). And lets get something straight…I don’t catch planes very often these days. I got word a few months back that us little ole people who don’t live in metropolitan cities would be able to shop H&M online beginning 01/01/12. Ya’ll know I’m counting the days. UNTIL NOW….elle.com is offering select (very select) styles available today only. I immediately put several things in my basket (I hope you aren’t reading Steve) but upon check out they were sold out in my size except for the TREGGING. Yes the TREGGING (a trouser legging..love it). I ordered them and they should arrive by next Tuesday. SO FLIPPING EXCITED! I’ll let ya’ll know how this Tregging turns out ( I have a pair of black ones from Gap that I’m obssessed with but they are a tad too big now). Oh and the #1 reason I love H&M, the pants were only 12.95. yep.

Check out elle.com for some H&M styles TODAY ONLY!

A whole lotta random

2011-08-26T09:18:00.001-05:00

I’ve been MIA for quite some time. My apologies to all 3 of my readers ( Hi MOM!). I have been in a blogging funk. I’m knee deep in planning the little boo’s first birthday party, she turned 11 months Tuesday (insert tears here). Here are a few things I’m loving this week….

1. Down Unstopables

UMMM Have you seen this stuff? I’m a sucker for marketing ploys but his one was worth my 7 bucks. You just pour a few of these little smelly good beads in your wash and VIOLA your clothes smell FANTASTIC. No joke, these things are powerful. I actually washed Stella’s clothes with them and they smelled SO good it was a little too strong for her tiny nose, so I had to rewash. Try these babies today, seriously.

2. Chocolate covered Espresso Beans

I used to devour these in college but I guess I forgot about them in the past few years. I “re-discovered” them at Rocky Mountain yesterday and I have been on a caffeine high ever since. I just had a few for breakfast. Delicious.

3. My new Tory Burch

I wasn’t in the market for a new purse but this is a clutch (totally diff from a reg purse right?) and i scored this for an ahhhmmmazzzing deal. So I couldn’t refuse. Its a perfect little clutch. The color is much more of a bronzey yellow than the picture leads you to believe.

10 months

2011-08-09T21:46:00.001-05:00

My sweet, sweet girl. I say this everysinglemonth but I can’t believe how fast you’ve grown. You are not a little baby anymore, you’re a little girl. I am so excited to see you blossom into a sweet little girl but I miss my tiny little baby too. The past 10 months have been a whirlwind and I find myself praying and hoping and wishing that I’ve been the mom that you deserve. My prayer is that I don’t miss out on any moments with you. I love you.

Stella Facts:

1. Now has 5 teeth…working on her 6th

2. Went to the beach for the first time in July. Absolutely loved the water.

3. Says “ma ma” and “da da” but hasn’t officially said her first words yet.

4. Squeals (more like SCREAMS in delight) when she see’s reggie.

5. Pretty much discovered your vocal cords this month and you exercise them regularly. Like shrill mom-thinks-you-are-hurt screams.

6. Very attached to momma. You are definately a Momma’s girl. I have to say I kind of love it.

7. Only nursing twice a day She takes a sippy like a champ (halleliuah) I will admit that I am super sad about not breastfeeding as much. I am having withdrawals and I’m not ready to stop. (i am looney, I know this)

8. Wearing 9-12 month clothing

9. Taking 2 naps and day and they are finally getting longer (probably because you are ON THE GO ALL THE TIME )

10. crawling and cruising everywhere. We keep thinking she is about to walk. She cruises around all day long.

Under construction

2011-07-28T10:53:00.002-05:00

This little ole blog will be under construction today! I don't have time today to repair the mess I've made with it! So stay with me and check out the changes in the next few days!

Motherhood

2011-07-23T21:23:00.001-05:00

I ran across this article on one of my new fave blogs…Pawley’s Island Posh and I HAD to repost this. I stay home with Stella most of the time (I go into the office on Tuesday and Thursday) and I am so thankful for this opportunity. My husband has been super understanding with my desire to stay with Stella and I wouldn’t trade it for the world. With that being said I’ve had people ask things like “What do ya’ll do all day?” or “You have PLENTY of time to do this or that” or “Why don’t you do X you stay home all day”. I never have an appropriate response. I just kind of smile and/or freeze in my tracks. I try to think and tell whoever it is what we do all day and my mind races…I do so much in the day…yet I can’t put it into words. This woman, however, describes it PERFECTLY. Sidenote: Luckily most of my friends understand completely and they just sit there and either A. talk about my child, breastfeeding, teething, etc (I could go on for days) or B. sit there and listen to me say things like “Stella come back here!” or “Stella stop that” or “Isn’t she soo cute”. (Gah Im annoying)

And let me tell you…I have the UTMOST respect for Mom’s that work all day and then come home to put on their “Mom” hat! I can not imagine doing all of the above and working all.the.time. Praise you sister friends!!!!!

I love my friends soooo much and I wouldn’t trade them for the world and I do always try to return phone calls and texts…but sometimes I get a little absent minded.

Before and After

2011-07-23T21:10:00.001-05:00

I got this lovely little lady from an antique auction for my birthday in February…

I knew I wanted to redo her but I couldn’t decide where to put her or what I wanted her to look like. This morning I woke up with a decorating buzz I couldn’t kill so Stella and I took off to the fabric store. We picked out a loverly graphic zebra print and headed to get some spray paint (my obsession). Lets be honest….I always start off with GRAND plans but I’m not so good at the follow through (especially since I have a tiny human who takes up 99.9% of my time) but today I was determined. Stella being the good girl she is (he he) napped for quite awhile so I was able to prep, prime, and spray this Lady during nap time. Then reupolstered her in a matter of like ehhhh 30 min. Total time 1 hour 15 min total!! I gotta do this again soon. LOVE the way she turned out!

I put her in our guest room. Its probably my favorite room in the house now. Here’s a shot of the other side of the room. (sidenote: stella’s swing seen in photo is now in storage….girl is TOO BIG for that thing) Doesn’t it go great in there? LOOOVEE!

I have a confession….after I redid this little Lady I got real excited and hopped on down to this consignment store to buy something else to redo. Yes…I’m crazy. I know this. But I got a cute little chair for Steve’s new desk area. I’m going with green…I’ll do an update when its done.

Just Beachy

2011-07-19T16:13:00.001-05:00

This girl loves the beach. She.loves.it!! We had the most amazing, relaxing vacation. We stayed in Orange Beach for 7 days and I couldn’t have asked for a better time. We did absolutely NOTHING and loved every minute of it. I have to admit I was a little nervous of all the sand and the loud noise of the ocean. However, she loved it all. We knew she loved the water because she could be in the pool all day, but I was expecting her to be a little scared of the big bad ocean….lets just say she proved me wrong.

She LOVED IT!! I broke down and bought her one of those horrible LARGE full body floatation devices so she could get all the way in the water. I didn’t think we were going to be able to get her out some days! This post is somewhat picture heavy but here goes…

9 months

2011-07-19T16:00:00.001-05:00

Stella turned 9 months on June 23 and I know I say this every month, but WHERE HAS THE TIME GONE?!?! My tiny little baby has turned into a tiny little person who I can’t keep up with! She is on the move and FAST! i forgot to take a photo of her on her 9 month birthday, but we got plenty at the beach!

1. At 9 months you swam for the first time! On memorial day you and Daddy went swimming! You LOVED The water. We got you a blow up raft that you could kick your little legs in and you loved it. You stayed in the water until it got dark (like 2 or 3 hours) and then tried to DIVE back in. We’ve gone swimming plenty since then and you love it every time!

2. You are definitely cruising. And even standing by yourself, if only for a moment. You grab the edge of the couch and take off. You are a little hesitant if no one is near you.

3. You now have FOUR TEETH! You’ve got 2 bottom and 2 top. And the top two were ROUGH. Like for.real.rough. I thought you were sick and brought you to the doctor. You were crying, your nose was constantly running and you had a fever for several days. Luckily you weren’t sick at all, just teething.

4. You are oh so ticklish. It so cute, you get to giggling then it’s all out laughter from there. You smile so big we can see all your teeth.

5. You weigh 18.9 lbs and are 28.5 inches long. Luckily this doctors appointment was painless, no shots!

6. You are wearing some 6-12 month clothing really well and can fit into some 6-9. Mostly wearing 9-12 and 6-12.

7. You are taking 2 naps a day and they aren’t very long but they are getting longer.

8. You are REALLY picky with your food! Some days you LOVE one thing and the next day you hate it. You still love mac n cheese.

9. You’ve started feeding yourself. You eat puffs and little snacks 2 times a day.

10. You’re nursing 4 times a day still. Morning, noon, evening, bedtime. Eating solids at breakfast, lunch, dinner.

11. You are so vocal!! You LOVE to talk and scream. and you are OH.SO.Dramatic! Don’t know where you got that from :)

12. You are such a happy baby. I want time to slow down so I can savor every moment!

I love you sweet girl!

11.

Line I love

2011-06-23T22:39:00.001-05:00

I’ve told ya’ll about my absolute favorite lip gloss ever

“Who are you wearing?” by benefit. It’s the most perfect pink shade of pink. But after discovering a few more benefit items (MAJORLY on sale might I add) …I’m hooked. Take a gander at my new fave finds

1. The most perfect tinted moisturizer ever. In the summer I like to just wear a tinted moisturizer and I’m constantly on the search for the best one. I really like this Benefit “You Rebel lite”. A few years ago I purchased the normal “You Rebel” and it was WAAAYYY to dark. I ended up using it as a bronzer! Now that they have the lite formula it may be my favorite ever.

2. Girl meets pearl. This is not a necessity in my make up bag but since it was on sale I bought it and I ended up loving it. It’s PERFECT for the summer because it gives you dewy look not matte. Its also a tad bit shimmery (you know I love to shimmer) but not overly so.

3. Oooh La Lift. I purchased this before I had Stella because I read on a “mom blog” that this was MUST have for a new mom. It said it was like “an eyelift in a tube”. Well they were right. Whenever Stella keeps me up all night I swipe this stuff under my eyes and I look 100 times more well rested.

4. Confessions of a Concealaholic. This may be my favorite of all my Benefit Sale purchases. When I got home I actually thought about going back and getting another one of these kits because it was such a great deal. I’m kicking myself for not doing. This kit is AHHHMAZZING. It has EVERYTHING you need to cover, conceal, and brighten. It includes the eraste paste which is a concealer and brightener in one. It also includes a primer, 2 shades of their famous concealer, “lemon-aide” which is a eyelid primer/brightener, and eye bright, an under eye concealer.

I probably wouldn’t have gone so overboard on all these benefit products had I not gotten them on sale. But I’m SOO glad I did because I’ve officially found my new favorite makeup line.

8 Months

2011-06-23T22:12:00.001-05:00

Notice that these “monthly” posts about Stella are taking a little longer every month…well that's because 8 month olds (well 9 months old now) are extremely mobile and energetic…There is significantly less time to do “me” things (or anything for that matter) than when she was 2 or 3 months old. So with that being said…here is Stella’s 8 month post…1 month late (Luckily I make notes throughout the month so I’m not stretching for facts people). Don’t hate me Stella :( (you know I’m always late )

I’m not sure where the time goes but it’s certainly flying by. At 8 months old you are so active and playful. This month you’ve started pulling up and its scary to see you grow up so fast. I am amazed at all the new things you learn on a daily basis. At 8 months it seems like you’ve grown up way to fast but I know you’re just beginning. You are becoming such a little lady and you have the cutest little personality. I think you look so much like your daddy (although a lot of people say you look like your Paw Paw) and most everyone agrees you act like Mommy (tad bit of drama never hurt anyone, honey). You squeal in delight at the sight of me or your dad. You giggle at the slightest funny face. You are so happy, everyone asks if you’re always this happy (I assure them, you aren’t a happy camper when you’re sleepy). Here’s some things you’re doing this month:

1. TEETH: You got your first tooth (and teeth) at 8 months. The day before Mother’s Day to be exact. You weren’t that agitated with that first tooth, but when the second one started coming in we were all miserable. You have the 2 cutest little bottom teeth. ever.

2. You’re still nursing but you’ve cut back to 4 times a day. Morning, noon, afternoon, night. That’s great on both of us.

3. You’re wearing 6-9 month clothing and I suspect you weigh around 18 pounds and 28 inches long.

4. You pulled up for the first time in your month 8. At first you were so scared to pull up but after several times you just pull yourself up on anything (even if it moves, which is scary). You’ve also mastered your crawling skills and can get around rather quickly…too quickly actually. Exhibit A:

5. I made the mistake of feeding you baby macaroni and cheese and you loved it…so much so that you don’t really want to eat much else. We are working on this.

6. You are OBSESSED with Reggie and Vader. Whenever you see either of them you sing and sing and sing. Or you squeal in delight and grab at them. We’re still working on the concept of petting.

7. You can clap your hands together when I say “YAYYY”! Well your hands don’t actually clap together but you are sure trying.

8. You don’t like to be alone. As long as I’m in the room with you, you’re content playing with toys or watching Praise Baby but if I leave you want to follow.

9. You love to hug. Its the most amazing feeling in the world when you tuck your little head on my shoulder and hug me. I could hug you forever sweet girl.

10. You are still very much a daddy’s girl. You are so good for him and love to play with him. You still light up when he gets home from work.

11. You started going to a baby sitter on Tuesday and Thursday while I’m at work. You seem to really enjoy it and Miss Missy is so good with you.

12. Your smile is contagious. Especially when you show off those 2 teeth.

13. You still hate nap time. I mean…YOU HATE IT.

14. You’ve never met a stranger. You love EVERYONE (this won’t be such a good thing in a few years but for now its really cute)

Thank you for making me the happiest, proudest mother ever. I love you more than you’ll ever know. Love, Mom

need in my closet…ASAP

2011-06-23T10:48:00.001-05:00

I am obsessed with white denim shorts…I’m pretty sure I must own a pair before we go to the beach in a week. (are you listening stevo?) I found these lovely little gems but the price tag is ooc…I AM NOT paying $143 for cutoff shorts…I shall keep looking.

Wouldn’t those look fantastic with this chambray top? I may have to order this little number before the vacay as well….(since its 1 million degrees, I’d wear it with the sleeves rolled up).

Pulling Up

2011-06-09T11:52:00.001-05:00

Stella girl has been crawling for about 5 or 6 weeks now but she has gotten REALLY fast. Homegirl just crawls everywhere at a lightening speed. If I thought I didn’t get anything done before…I definitely don’t know. She’s also been pulling up for a few weeks, but never really able to stand on her on. Until now…check this out…

Ahh…this brings a tear to my eye. She is growing up WAY TOO FAST!!!

Cutest Dress Eva Eva Eva

2011-06-09T10:43:00.001-05:00

Behold the cutest dress I’ve ever laid eyes upon (I wouldn’t be dramatic would I?) I just purchased this little number and CAN.NOT.WAIT. for it to come in.

The back is my favorite part! LOVVVE!

Tooth Time

2011-05-25T11:39:00.001-05:00

Miss Stella has FINALLY gotten her first tooth!

If you look closely you can see it on the bottom. Too cute.

7 Months

2011-05-25T11:34:00.001-05:00

***disclaimer: I realize Stella is now 8 months old (as of Monday). But this post didn’t go up either. insert sad face :(

My sweet girl….I can not believe time has passed by so quickly. I want to freeze time so badly. You are 7 months old. Its been 7 months since you came into our lives and captured our hearts. Where has the time gone? I want to savor every moment with you. I don’t want to let a moment slip by. You are so much fun this month! You are just a bucket of energy and curiosity! I love watching you discover new things and I surely can’t slow you down! You had a little accident and fractured your leg, you had to wear a sling for 2 weeks but that barely slowed you down. The day we got to take the sling off you started CRAWLING! We were so fortunate to get your first crawl on video camera. I can’t wait to show you one day! You’ve done so much this month ( I feel like I say that every month) and you’re becoming such a big girl! Here’s a breakdown on your month seven.

1. you CRAWLED! You have been rocking back and forth for some time but you finally crawled on April 29 (the day we got your sling off). We haven’t been able to slow you down since. I must admit, I was pretty emotional when you crawled because that really means you are “growing up”.

2. You are absolutely in LOVE with dogs. Especially Reggie and he’s starting to love you back (he was a bit nervous around you to begin with).

3. We can not keep you still. You are a girl on the go. Even before you started crawling you would just roll and squirm all over the place.

4. You giggle so much these days. I think your giggle is the sweetest sound I’ve ever heard. I love to hear you giggle. Your daddy is the best at making you giggle and Reggie does a pretty good job of it too.

5. You’ve started pulling up on the sides of your crib and really trying to crawl out of it. We officially had to lower your crib this month. I was so nervous you were going to just fling yourself overboard!

6. You’ve started copying our facial expressions. You will squinch up your nose and smile or stick out your tongue.

7. You’ve figured out your video monitor and constantly pull it down or wriggle it lose.

8. You still HATE the bottle. You absolutely refuse to take a bottle and for that reason we are still nursing. (To be honest I don’t want to stop nursing you either because that means you’re a “big girl” and I’m not ready for that”

9. Your doctor suggested we try the sippy cup but you veto’d that too. You will gladly chew on the end of it but you surely aren’t going to drink out of it.

10. Your dad thought it was a fantastic idea to give you ice cream this month. After you got over the cold temperature you LOVED it.

11. You weigh 17.4 lbs and are 28 inches long. You are wearing size 3 diapers.

12. Still eating oatmeal in the morning and a meat and veggie at night.

13. You LOVE to be outside. Especially with the dogs. You especially enjoy our daily walks in the military park.

14. You reach for me and your daddy and it just melts my heart. The best feeling in the world.

15. You’re pretty much the cutest darn thing I’ve ever seen and I love you more than you’ll ever know.

Mother’s Day

2011-05-25T11:31:00.001-05:00

***This post is old as well….none of my post from a few weeks ago went up..so strange

A perfect first Mother’s Day : Picnic in the park, delicious meal prepared by the hubs, a handpainted card from Stella, gifts from my mother in law and sister in law, beautiful flowers and card from Steve, and a relaxing weekend. What more could I want?

Dan the Man

2011-05-25T11:29:00.001-05:00

***This post is about 2 week old….for some reason blogger didn’t publish it

Stella had delightful afternoon yesterday….she met “Dan the Man” aka Dan Mullen, the Bulldogs coach. She thoroughly enjoyed herself. Coach Mullen said “What a cutie!” upon meeting her and I must say I have to agree.

*please ignore my rough appearance, I didn’t intend on being in the photos.

Surprise!

2011-05-05T15:22:00.001-05:00

I love surprises when they AREN’T for me! Stella attended her first surprise party for my granddaddy this weekend. I’ll let the pictures tell the story.

heyyyyyyyyyy

2011-05-02T21:26:00.001-05:00

I’ve been mia from the blog this weekend! I haven’t even checked emails since Thursday…gasp. Its been a nice long weekend. Let’s recap what’s been going on in the life of moi, shall we?

1. Officially obsessed with Princess Kate ( I know she is the Duchess of Cambridge, but I prefer Princess. And I’m sure she does too). Margie threw a “Royal Wedding Viewing Party” at 4am. I didn’t make it there that early, but I did arrive before Kate became a Princess.

ok love them.

#2. Stella crawled. She crawled, I cried. I don’t want her to be old enough to crawl. Makes me so sad. Technically she only crawled like 6 steps…and she’s only done it a few times since then. So she’s not like “on the go” but I have a feeling its coming and soon.

#3. working on a blog makeover, complete with a new name. I don’t really think “Catching up with the Caldwells” is relevant to what I post about (for the most part). We aren’t really “catching up with Steve” when I post about shoes or jeans I want. its in the works..stay tuned. If anyone has any suggestions as to what I can name this nifty little blog, please let me know.

Thats all folks. I’m off to clean the bathroom, because I keep putting it off.

pray

2011-04-28T09:37:00.003-05:00

My heart and prayers go out to all affected by this week’s storms. this hits so close to home, while luckily no one in my family lost their lives or belongings, quite a few of them are without power for a few days. I thank God for sparing my family and friends in these area’s but I am so saddened by the loss others are experiencing.

Please pray for everyone in these disaster area's. The level of devastation is incomprehensible. The photo's and video's I've seen are unimaginable and heartbreaking. I get tears thinking about anyone having to go through such despair. My heart is so heavy right now, just pray.

This is one of my favorite songs right now and I think it is appropriate for today. In times like these I need to think about how much I’m blessed and not let the little things bother me.

Tales from the Easter Bunny

2011-04-28T09:30:00.001-05:00

Our first Easter as a family of TROIS! Love it. I am such a sucker for holiday's and they are so much more fun with a baby. I was so excited to be the Easter Bunny (yea yea I know she won't remember). But none the less, I went all out (so much so my hubs had to restrain my cc and debit card this week, oops). Here are a few photo’s my little Easter child. And our family of 3. Yes I made us dress alike, hah I thought everyone did that at Easter (we always did as children, THANKS MOM) but we got to church and we were the only family dressed alike. The Hubs said I damaged his “man card”. ha, he’ll get over it, it made for some good photo’s!

Self Tanning

2011-04-21T11:47:00.001-05:00

I am a self pronounced “Self Tanning Queen”. ha! I’ve been self tanning for yearrrssss…..like (7 grade people) When the only thing available was orange! I have the pictures to prove it…but I’ll spare you this time. I wanted to share a few of my tried and true self tanning favorites. I’ve tried just about everything on the market and I’ve got a few favorites. IMO nothing makes a girl feel better than a good tan!

1. L’Oreal Sublime Bronze Gel

This is my “go to” favorite! I’ve used it FOR YEARS and its fantastic. It glides right on so streaking is very minimal. The tan is a fantastic golden brown color and lasts for days!! Its available at walmart, walgreens, basically anywhere! And it only costs about $9 bucks! Negatives: the smell is offensive (I don’t mind it b/c I’m used to it, but it may offend others) and it goes on clear, so you can’t see where its going.

2. QuickTan by Body Drench

I would use this every single day if I could handle a brown bathroom! Its FANTASTIC! Its sprays on brown so you know exactly where it’s going and the instant color STAYS (some tanners spray on a color then wear away) but this just gets darker! One application every few days is usually enough. It’s perfect for when you need to be tan like 5 minutes ago. Its available online and at Sally’s and it runs about $20 a bottle. LOVE LOVE LOVE IT! Negatives: The brown spray gets all over EVERYTHING (must stand in bathroom to spray). The price is $20 but you only get about 3-4 full body uses per can. It doesn’t last long, especially if you’re in the water (ala the beach). I would say it lasts about 2-3 days and less if you’re on vacay.

3. L’Oreal Sublime Bronze Bronzing Lotion

Another long time fave! This is in the same line as the first one! Its great because it goes on with a slight tint so you can see exactly where you are putting it and the smell isn’t as bad. It leaves the same golden brown color that lasts 3-4 days. One-two applications is normally enough. And you can buy it anywhere! Negatives: Somewhat streaky. It isn’t sooo bad but its much streakier than the first two. You can’t layer it (one application minutes after the other).

4. TanTowel

My bff Tracie gave me some of these a few months back. They are AWESOME! The thought of applying self tanner with something that looked like a wet wipe was a bit daunting but it works! And its not messy whatsoever! They are little white “towels” and you just rub them on all over! Even your face. The tan only takes about 3 hours to appear and its not streaky at all. It’s a great brown color too. Negatives: Smells a little funky. Its clear so its a guessing game. And they are somewhat expensive ($27 bucks for only 5 applications)

5. Sephora Tinted Self Tanning Mist

Ya’ll I love a good spray! They are so easy! This one is great and smells pretty good too! The tan is even and it just sprays right on with minimal streaking. The cost is great on this one too. Only about $12 and last a good while. Its only avaliable at Sephora. Negatives: the brown spray gets all over everything!

Easter Photos

2011-04-21T10:56:00.001-05:00

A few snaps from our impromptu Easter photo shoot the other day! I’m sending out Easter cards….(yes they will be late, but that’s right on time for me) and decided I would just take the photo’s myself.

Isn’t she a doll? LOL I am so “that mom” but I can’t help it! I’m so in love with this tiny darling.

Stella Update

2011-04-14T16:49:00.001-05:00

Thanks for praying for sweet Stella. We went to the Orthopedic Pediatrician on Tuesday at UMC in Jackson. The Dr. said the break was most likely caused from her sitting with one leg in front of her and the other leg bent in back (her favorite position to sit in, think of it like a cheerleader herkie). When she got up to crawl (or try to crawl) she would have fallen backwards and her little leg twisted underneath her. This fall occurred Friday evening. She cried but she was immediately consoled when we picked her up so we didn’t really think much about it. She’s one tough cookie. It wasn’t until Saturday that we noticed something wrong. Now that we can kind of pin point what happened I feel much better.

Anyway, the Doctor put her in a body sling to hold her little leg up and to keep it from twisting. Luckily we didn’t get a cast! The good news is that she only has to wear it for 2.5 weeks!! We go back to he doc in a few weeks to check it out again! She is adjusting so well. She doesn’t even know that she’s wearing it. She’s such a trooper, she hasn’t cried about her leg since the doctor was poking on it the other day. Steve said last night “I don’t think she knows she’s hurt”. Which I’m thankful of. She’s her happy, funny self! Thank goodness!!!

the hardest day

2011-04-12T08:20:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was by far the hardest day I’ve had in my journey of motherhood. To say that it sucked would be an understatement. We went out of town this weekend to visit my mother in law. Stella was especially fussy on Saturday. She’s never fussy. She normally only gets fussy when she’s bored and that’s not very often. After much observation we determined something was wrong with her leg or hip. She wouldn’t put in pressure on her leg (when we’d stand her up) and she’d wince when we touched it. The next morning we were supposed to go to New Orleans for the day and decided if she was still fussy we’d just go straight home. Well Sunday she woke up and was our happy baby again! She was bubbly and giggly so we headed to NOLA. She had the best time in New Orleans and we decided if something was wrong we’d find out on Monday, but we didn’t think it was really serious. When we got home that night I stood her up and she immediately pulled up leg up and that really scared me. So first thing Monday morning I called the Dr. and they told us to come right in. We got here about 9:30 and waited until 12pm to be seen. The Dr. examined her and determined she was having pain in her leg and ordered and xray. Well…the nightmare had begun. The xray came back and showed my precious baby had a fractured leg. She’s only 6 months old, how can she have a fractured leg!?!? I immediately started crying. (let me mention that I’m crying more than Stella, who thinks this whole thing is funny!) Dr. Deb showed us the xray and ordered more xrays. They poked and proded my sweet happy baby until she was a blubbering, sobbing mess. I just wanted to hold her and comfort her but I couldn’t. My heart was breaking for her. I was crying so much that the nurse came in to console me. I didn’t want my baby to hurt. I want the fracture leg so she won’t have to have it. After 6 hours at the Doctors office, a splint, and a tired baby we were finally able to leave. Our Doctor is so wonderful and took extra care of Stella, she made us an appointment with an Pediatric Orthopedic doctor at UMC for today. This is to get a more permanent support system on her little leg. I’m so hurt right now. I know she is too, but she is so sweet, she doesn’t even know she’s hurt. I just feel like failure as a mother. How could by baby be so hurt. I hurt for her. I feel guilty. I feel just rotten. I don’t want her to hurt.

I know many of you will ask “How did this happen?” and the truth is …we don’t know. We honestly have no idea. We first noticed her in pain on Saturday. So we assume it happened Friday evening. Dr. Deb said it looked like she had her leg twisted back and then fell (maybe while trying to crawl) or she could have possibly gotten her leg caught in the crib slots and got twisted. Either way, we don’t know for sure. I am with her almost 100% of the time and I don’t recall a specific instant of her falling that hard.

Please keep us in your prayers. Little Stella is doing just fine, but I just hate seeing her in pain or unable to move freely. The hardest thing about being a mother is seeing your children hurt.

nola baby

2011-04-12T08:05:00.001-05:00

We visiting Steve’s mother and family in South Louisiana this weekend and stopped in New Orleans on our way back for the French Quarter Fest. My sister in law, Holley drove down to meet us for the day. Stella absolutely loved her first trip to the Big Easy, and I have a feeling this will be the first of many trips. We fully intended on getting her sketched by one of the local artists, but it was SO PACKED and SO HOT we decided we’d save that for another day. We did a little shopping and picked Stella up an adorable crab seersucker dress, a new NOLA book (“1 dat, 2 dat, are you a who dat!”), and some NOLA candy for her Easter Basket (which I’ll most likely end up eating!) A few pic’s from Stella’s first trip to the Crescent City.

Stella and her Daddy

Me with my happy baby!

sacked out

strolling jackson sqaure

half a year

2011-04-12T07:43:00.002-05:00

ya’ll its been HALF a year since God blessed us with our little princess. I can’t tell you HOW FAST time is flying by. I just want to freeze these moments. Its so hard to believe that Stella is halfway to a year old. She has developed so much in these past 6 months, its unreal. Every time I see a brand new baby I just want to cry! Stella was that tiny not so long ago. I love the stage that she is in now. She is still a baby, but she is so interactive and fun! She can communicate with us and show her love to us. She is just the sweetest baby.
Dear Stella:

YOU’RE 6 MONTHS OLD!!!!

What you’re doing this month:
1. You still LOVE being the center of attention. All eyes on you! You’re such a little attention ham, you just smile and babble!
2. You’re eating solids and you love them! You eat oatmeal and fruit in the morning and you just started meat and veggies at night. So far you favorites are prunes, sweet potatoes, and apples.
3. You are sitting up so steady and go from laying on your belly or back to sitting straight up in no time flat. It caught me by surprise the first time I walked in your room and saw you sitting straight up.
4. Another thing that caught me by surprise was you pulling up. I thought you were down for a nap and I looked at the monitor and you had the bumper in your hands pulling yourself up. I was scared you were going to try to escape your crib.
5. Speaking of naps….errr you hate them. You think you are going to miss something while asleep so you’d just rather not sleep! It’s a daily battle to get you down for a nap (unless we are riding in the car somewhere or walking in the park). When you do sleep its for about 30 min, sometimes an hour. Once in the morning and once in the afternoon.
6. You are still nursing. I had planned to wean you at 6 months, but you are so attached to nursing (and dislike the bottle so much) I am actually quite scared to wean you! I don’t want you to go without something that you love so much! So we’ll just keep nursing until you decide you’re done (within reason!)
7. You still love Reggie. Well not just Reggie, any puppy dog. Whenever you see a dog, you get this quiet little squeal and a big smile on your face. Its like you are trying to talk directly to them. When Reggie is in your view you follow him everywhere. Reggie has been a little upset that you’ve stole his thunder, but this month he has finally started to warm up to you. case in point…
I think he’s finally realized you aren’t going anywhere. The only problem is, you haven’t quite learned how to “pet” him. You just grab and by grab I mean, a hand full of little Reggie hair. I have a feeling, he’ll toughen up and you two will be the best of friends.
8. You still love Baby Einstein. I’ll put you in your jumper and turn on Baby E and you’ll just squeal and giggle. I know when its over because you start crying!
9. You are so mobile now. You’ve learned how to get on all 4’s and crawl, but you haven’t managed to go forward yet but you can go backward faster than I can!!
10. You LOVE your daddy! This is what you look like when he walks in the door from work, I kid you not.
You have special daddy and Stella time and I think that’s your favorite time of the day. He can make you laugh like no one else can.
11. You, my dear, are sleeping ALL THE WAY through the night!! Let me tell you! I was concerned as to why you weren’t sleeping through the night so your Daddy (brilliant daddy) suggested we put you in your own room on your 6 month birthday (you’ve been sleeping in a pack n play in our room). And guess what? Homegirl, you slept through the night the first night you were in there! And haven’t missed a night since! You sleep from about 8pm to 7am! Go girl!
12. You are in 6-9 month clothing and size 3 diapers, you weight 16.4 oz (50th percentile) and are 28 inches long (95th percentile).
13. You are teething, but haven’t gotten your first tooth. You are drool machine for sure!
14. You love walking in the park with Momma! We try to go on walks daily, the only part you don’t like is having to wear sunscreen. You cry every time I put it on!
15. Your favorite toys are your jumper (LOVE THAT THING), your singing caterpillar, your stackables, your lovie, and your jumpin’ pig.

Sweet girl, these past 6 months have been the best of my life. I am so proud to say I am your mother. I love you.

Outfit of the Day

2011-04-05T14:08:00.002-05:00

One of my favorite things to look for on other blogs is outfit of the day posts! I love seeing how other people put together outfits and it gives me ideas for my own outfits! I was thinking about doing several Outfit of the Day (OOTD) posts per week on the blog. I’m thinking it may inspire me to get a little more creative with my outfits! Is this a Yay or a Nay?!? Should I or Shouldn’t I?!? Tell me what you think!

15 things i’ve learned in the past 6 months

2011-04-05T10:24:00.002-05:00

Stella is 6 months old. That’s half a year if you’re counting. I can’t believe how fast time has gone by. I wish I could freeze time and my baby will stay a baby. But I know that’s wishful thinking. I have learned so much in the past 6 months. It’s amazing how quickly one catches on.

Here’s 15 things I’ve learned…(in no particular order)

1. Breastfeeding is hard…really hard. But luckily, for everyone involved, it gets easier. So easy, in fact, I don’t want to stop.

2. Just because I was the size of a peanut before I got pregnant doesn’t meant the baby weight magically falls off. It's still not all off. But I’m happy to report that I’m a third of the way there. My goal is to be back to my pre baby bod before Memorial Day.

3. Nail polish chips a lot faster when you are changing diapers (thus washing your hands) 1000 times a day. I live in chipped nail polish.

4. Laundry is my never ending enemy.

5. Sleep is a luxury.

6. I can have an infant and still care for myself (i.e. showering daily, make up, and presentable clothing). While I wasn’t always as fresh as a Spring flower I do believe we’ve gotten the hang of it now and I can curl my hair, apply make up, and play dress up daily.

7. Time passes by much to quickly.

8. I would much rather master the perfect hair curl/wave than clean while Stella naps.

9. Little, tiny clothes are so much cuter than mine. And much more fun to buy.

10. NEVER EVER under any circumstances attempt to dye your own hair (I’m talking to you blondies). I don’t care if you think you don’t have time to sit in a salon for 3 hours or if you don’t have sitter. You can WAIT or FIND a sitter!

11. Prayer will get you through those early days of no sleep and new motherhood.

12. TIny little fingers and toes are the cutest darn things in the world.

13. My first baby (aka Reggie) is now the dog.

14. I’m more domestic than I ever thought I could be. While I’m not the best chef, my house stays clean and I can make a mean baby food puree.

15. This smile melts my heart

**I’m waiting to post Stella’s 6 Month update since we go to the Dr tomorrow! Stay tuned!!

prune lovin’

2011-04-03T22:04:00.001-05:00

my girl loves prunes….she must have inherited that from her father. please excuse the LOUD laughter in this video…we don’t do inside voices at the Caldwell house.

the middle of it all

2011-03-31T13:08:00.001-05:00

ya’ll i’m obsessed with middle parts. i mean OBSESSED. once a week I try to style my hair down the middle….and it just isn’t working out for me.

i mean i really, really try to accomplish this…I think i’ve FINALLY got the waves down pat..but I can’t do this center part without looking CRAY CRAY!! Do you like the center part?

blessings

2011-03-30T23:03:00.001-05:00

a few weeks ago (or was it days ago) I posted about a family that lost their sweet baby girl in February and how it really put things in perspective for me. I’ve been thinking and praying for this family every day, I check her blog every day and just pray. I was just reading Kelly’s Korner and she listed quite a few prayer requests. Just looking at the prayer requests made me stop and thank God for all the blessings he has given me. No matter how “rough” I feel like I’ve had it after a bad day I have soooo much to be thankful for. God has blessed me with a wonderful loving husband, and the sweetest, most beautiful baby girl and life is good. I’m not sharing this to brag about how blessed I am. I just need to remind myself sometimes exactly how blessed I am.

confessions + lazy sunday

2011-03-27T23:31:00.001-05:00

We had revival at our church this weekend and the guest Pastor was excellent. He was so funny and full of energy. I really enjoyed hearing him speak. Last night before the sermon we had a potluck for revival. I cleaned house all day and ran errands and completely forgot that last names A-H were supposed to bring casseroles. (mind you, a casserole isn’t something you just throw together in a few minutes, its a well thought out, planned ahead process). So, being the excellent housewife that I am, I ran downtown to Peterson’s Antiques and purchase a lovely Storycook original casserole! I ran home and the hubs helped me put it in the oven! I must say, it was quite delicious and required absolutely no clean up. Why haven’t I done this before?!?! Since no one at church commented on my casserole or asked about it I felt the need to confess it here. (the lady at Peterson’s told me to put it in a dish of my own and not tell a soul) but I just had to tell ya’ll that he delicious chicken rotel was in fact a Storycook classic and not made in the Caldwell Kitchen.

On another note, today has been perfect! We went to church, had lunch at Pizza Inn (bye bye diet, see you again tomorrow), took our 2 hour family nap (for some reason Stella will sleep as long as we do if she is sandwiched between us, and DO NOT BE ALARMED, she ONLY sleeps with us on Sunday afternoon naps and we are on top of the blankets!), woke up in time to plan out meals for the week, go to Kroger, and come home to a lovely evening with the hubs. Lazy Sunday, perfect Sunday! Hope you all had a great weekend!

sunny afternoon

2011-03-22T22:04:00.001-05:00

Stella and I spent the afternoon hanging out outside and I found it the perfect opportunity to take some photos in the amazing light.

red

2011-03-22T16:56:00.001-05:00

Apparently red is the “it” color for spring. I’ve seen red on every blog and magazine I can get my hands on. I’m trying to finish off this baby weight before I make some major wardrobe purchases, but I couldn’t resist these adorable red shorts! They are high waisted (ya’ll know my love for all things high waisted) and they hopefully aren’t too short! I can’t wait for them to come in.

I’m normally not a shorts gal. I prefer dresses and skirts over pants and shorts any day, but for some reason I’m really wanted shorts, shorts, and shorts this year! I’ll post more shorts soon!

drama queen

2011-03-22T16:40:00.001-05:00

Ya’ll It is no secret that I’m a bit of a drama queen! But my child may have out-drama’d me! She is the most dramatic little thing and she’s so dang cute all the while. She’s really developing such a cute little personality and when she giggles my heart just melts. She is definitely “Miss Priss”

She has started “talking” ALOT (again, I don’t know where she got that from). She sings and talks all day (not real talking people, just baby babble). Her favorite “words” right now are “Da Da”. She says “da da da” all day long….I looked at her last night and said “MA MA” she laughed back with “da da”. Its adorable nonetheless.

I said in her 5 Month post that she’d sat up already. Well let me tell you she LOVES to sit up. She feels like “princess” of the world sitting up and she’s getting so good at it.

Time is passing by too quickly. She’ll be 6 months tomorrow. I can’t stand it.

crawfish time

2011-03-17T19:47:00.001-05:00

Ya’ll its crawfish season!!! Ahhh I love it! since we didn’t get to go to the coast for Mardi Gras we missed our normal first crawfish boil of the season. Luckily, I threw Steve a little crawfish boil for his bday! We expected it to be fairly small but we ended up having lots of family and friends come! Steve’s dad cooked us up some delissssh crawfish.

And of course, Miss Stella stole the show from the Birthday Boy! She was of course the hit of the party but she’ll have to wait until next year to enjoy her first crawfish.

And the Birthday boy with his ice cream bday cake.

MUST HAVE

2011-03-16T09:58:00.002-05:00

Ya'll I'm on the look out for the PERFECT pair of flare jeans...I mean like extreme flare. I've seen extreme flare's in every magazine and blog lately and I'm hooked. I found the absolute perfect pair from Gap (loooove that high waist!!)

I was waiting until tomorrow to purchase them because its Gap/Old Navy/ Banana Republic's Give and Get (when you get 30% off everything). However, I went to check on my perfect jeans today and they are gone. Poof! They've vanished. They are no longer in my shopping cart or on the website. HELP!!! Do you know where these jeans are? I even looked on ebay....nothing.... I'm hoping they will come back in stock. fingers crossed :(

UPDATE: I've called every gap within 90 miles of Vicksburg and none of them even know what I'm talking about. So I attached the above picture in an email and sent it to the gap.com customer service! I'm waiting to hear back.....yes i'm know i'm looney....

5 Months

2011-03-16T09:12:00.002-05:00

Stella's 5 month post (I realize I'm about 3 weeks late....but you all know I'm pretty much late for everything).

My Sweet Stella...you're 5 MONTHS OLD!

What you're doing this month:

1. Your little personality is really starting to shine. You LOVE LOVE LOVE attention. When we are talking to you, you turn our way and make constant "grunting" noises until we acknowledge you. That doesn't happen often because we are almost all the time talking to you!

2. You're quite dramatic....(wonder where you get that from? :) ) You pretend cry until we pick you up then you're all smiles!

3. You melted my heart this month...you reached for me the for the first time. I think I started crying...It was the sweetest sight ever. You now reach for me and your Daddy all the time.

4. You also started turning in our direction when you hear our voice. Sweetest thing ever. You'll turn and look at us and smile soooo big.

5. You give me "love pats" when I'm nursing you. You kinda hit me like you're saying "give me more"!

6. You still love mornings. I'm hoping this will last. The highlight of day is watching you wake up with that huge smile on your face.

7. Once you started rolling over at 4 months you didn't stop. You roll everywhere!

8. You still love Reggie and he's actually warming up to you. He's been giving you "kisses" all month. We have to watch you because you'll grab a handful of his hair instead of petting him. He doesn't like that so much.

9. Your favorite toys are your mobile above your crib, your singing caterpillar, your baby einstein piano, and your vibrating teether.

10. Speaking of teether, you are teething, big time. You have to wear a bib full time or your shirt will be SOAKED in drool. I question whether you actually swallow any of it.

11. You still fight naps...with a vengeance! We're working on that!

12. You love to cuddle..and I love to cuddle with you too!

13. BIGGEST NEWS OF THE MONTH....you're sitting up! You haven't sat up by yourself yet, but if I sit you up you stay that way.

14. And you LOVE your toes, you've finally got them to your mouth....

Putting everything into Perspective

2011-03-06T11:08:00.000-06:00

This past week I have been struggling with being too busy. I have alot going on all the while trying not to miss one moment with my baby girl. While I'm very fortunate to only have to work 2 days a week, I find myself busier than I would be if I were working full time. Its amazing the amount of things that I seem to "need" to do. I'm OCD and can't let anything just be. I find it worse now that I'm home most of the time. I found this story while blog surfing on Wednesday it literally broke my heart. I've checked back on this blog every day and I just sit in my living room and sob. Stella looks at me with those big blue eyes "like what are you crying for you crazy lady?" This story just hits too close to home and it scares me, it makes me slow down and enjoy my sweet angel, it makes me thankful for what I have, and I praise God for all of this. Please keep this family in your prayers....here is their story:

This sweet family had a baby just 3 weeks younger than Stella. Baby Maddie passed away at her babysitters house while her parents were at work on February 17. At this time they do not know what caused her death, but they believe it was SIDS. This is the saddest story I've read in so long. The day I read it I didn't put Stella down, seriously I held her the entire day. Their blog used to be just like any other mommy blog, but now its an open book on their tragedy and struggle to find a "new" normal without their sweet baby. My heart breaks for this family. I can not imagine the pain that they feel. Please keep them in your prayers. If you would like to read more about their story or leave a kind message you can do so here.

We are all so fortunate and blessed. I am thanking God for the life he has giving me and I'm going take a break and enjoy it with my sweet Stella.

The Best Present Ever

2011-03-01T12:37:00.002-06:00

Yesterday was my birthday...for the first time in my life I feel....old. I know I'm not "old" by any means, but I just feel that way! Just wanted to share what a blessed girl I am....

The Best Present Ever

Love them more than words can describe! This was Stella and Daddy time! How cute are they?

Photoshoot!

2011-02-25T09:38:00.000-06:00

My sweet girl turned 5 months this week (post to come soon)! I took her over to Clinton for a photoshoot. She was a doll and we go the pictures back the same day Check out her newest photoshoot here!
Our photographer, Amy Henry, is fantastic! She is so good with Stella and uber creative, so we always get great shots!

Thing's I'm Loving....

2011-02-22T15:20:00.001-06:00

Just a few things I'm loving lately..

1. Make Up Optional Skin Care set by Philosophy

Pregnancy totally wrecked my skin. I have always had pretty reasonable skin and never really thought twice about a strict skin care regimen WELL let me tell you! I needed something to combat the surge of acne, swelling, and redness that my pregnancy brought on. This kit is great! Its anti-aging AND clears up your skin! I highly recommend the moisturizer if you don't want the whole kit..it smells a little funky (not funky as in bad, but funky kind of like when you get a facial), but it doesn't leave your skin feeling grease or heavy!

2. Chocolate Peppermint Stick Luna Bar

LOVE LOVE LOVE THIS!! Its full of protein so it keeps me full all morning and its amazingly delicious! Kroger has a HUGE selection of them, but chocolate peppermint stick is my favorite. :)

3. Nars Blush in Super

This is by far my favorite blush ever. the color is perfect and it has little sparkles in it. The price tag is a bit steep but it lasts so long its definitely worth the price.

4. Quick Tan by Body Drench

Ya'll this is my go to tanner. I swore of tanning beds a few years back and we all know I'm so pale I'm practically transparent, so I needed something that would give me a tan and look REAL. This not only looks real, but it doesn't streak. PLUS, it's INSTANT. You just spray it on and you're TAN and not to mention it lasts about 3 days. The only downfall is you have to apply it in the bathtub (sans water obviously) because if you don't, you're whole bathroom will also be tan!

5. Greek Yogurt

My sister in law recommended I try this greek yogurt because it tastes the same as regular yogurt but it has so much fiber and protein that it keeps you full for a really long time! Great for me because my stomach apparently still thinks I'm pregnant. I add a little splenda (per Holley's suggestion) and it tastes like ice cream!

6. Baby Grace Lotion by Philosophy

LOVE this lotion. I got it as a gift for Christmas and I love it. It has the softest smell and its so light. I can't get enough. I just love Philosophy products. I haven't tried one that I didn't like!

Ok...now I need your help! I have the teeniest, tinest, most pale eyelashes EVER. I used to use Dior DiorShow mascara and LOVED it. But the price tag made my husband do a doubletake so I've got to find something that's a little more affordable. Any suggestions?

Couldn't have said it better myself!

2011-02-18T18:21:00.000-06:00

Read this post my friend Becca wrote....here. I couldn't have said it better myself! I know MANY women who chose not to breastfeed and that's what works for them, but I agree with Becca, our society isn't very accommodating to us mothers who choose to breastfeed. What works for one, may not work for the other and I completely 100% agree that breastfeeding isn't for everyone! I'm sure if you aren't a mother you think I'm crazy....ha

blog makeover

2011-02-16T09:52:00.001-06:00

as you can all see my little ole blog is getting a makeover. i'm working out he kinks...there are a few things that need to be changed, added, or removed! I'll let ya'll know when its complete! i'm loving it so far!

4 months and counting

2011-02-15T22:22:00.000-06:00

The princess is 4 months. She'll be 5 months next week, I'm a little behind on the post. I jotted all her information down a few weeks back but never blogged about it.

Stella, you're 4 months old!

What you're doing:

-The biggest news of the month is that you ROLLED OVER! I was at Bunco on January 18, 2010 and you rolled over for Daddy! He called me immediately and I ran home! I was so nervous you wouldn't roll over when I got here, but you did! We even got it on the camera! First you rolled over from your back to your tummy, then you decided you didn't like the tummy very much and rolled to your back!
-You LOVE your mobile above your crib. you just sit in your crib and squeal at it. I think its your favorite toy.
- You have really, I mean really discovered your voice this month. You squeal in delight so much that your face turns red and you run out of breath. At first you squealed so loud I thought you were hurt, but you just smiled afterwards so I figured you were just fine.
- You just love attention! I mean you are a little attention ham. All eyes on you is your motto!
- You are nursing about 6-7 times a day, approximately every 3 hours (except at night). You don't really like the bottle much and you give anyone trying to give it to you a hard time. You've actually refused the bottle to many times to count.
-You weigh 13 lbs 11 oz and are 26 inches long, you're starting to get little rolls in your legs and MANY rolls in your neck.
-You're wearing 3-6 month clothing and size 2 diapers
- You giggle out loud at your Daddy. You light up when he walks into the room, you're most definitely a Daddy's girl.
- You are drooling ALOT, I thought you were teething because there is so.much.drool!
- You're not really a fan of sleep, especially naps! You are only napping twice a day and not more than 30 min at a time....
- You got sick for the first time this month, a tiny little ear infection.
- You have stopped sleeping through the night, but I don't really mind. You just need to eat a little then you're back to sleep. You wake up around 3am.
-You love my hair, you grab it all.the.time. Well you are actually grabbing everything. It's adorable. Toys, post it notes, boxes, anything you can get your hands on you pick up.
-You chew on everything!! I think this goes hand in hand with the drool.

Stella, your Daddy and I love you more than you can imagine. You are perfect to us. Thank you for so many good memories. I hope we can be the parents that you deserve, you deserve the best. And we may be bias but we think you're the most beautiful little girl in the whole world. We love you.

Baby Book

2011-02-15T21:52:00.000-06:00

So I read alot of "mom" blogs and they all seem to make books out of their blog posts. I never intended on doing that because I blog about other things as well. I just planned on making your typical "crafty" scrapbook for Stella's first year. (She has a baby book, but I wanted to scrap book with pictures and fun facts, you get the picture). Well as I was cleaning last weekend I came across our Wedding Scrapbook....or lack there of. There is no wedding scrapbook, in fact there is just an empty book, pages and pages of scrapbook paper, stickers, etc. Not to mention every memento and picture from the moment we got engaged until after our honeymoon (i guess I planned on doing 3 scrapbooks, engagement, wedding, and honeymoon) Please keep in mind we have been married 2.5 years. So I came across this harsh reality, poor little Stella won't have a scrapbook until she's 30 at the rate I'm going. So friends, I'm going to scrapbook my blog....not necessarily my blog posts word for word....but I'm going to use it to post info (more info) on my sweet little girl. I'm sorry if that bores you, but I have just got to keep up with how much she is growing and progressing!! So here goes nothing.....

My Sweet Valentine

2011-02-15T17:41:00.000-06:00

isn't she the sweetest valentine you ever did see?? we celebrated very low key this year. steve and i went out for a lovely dinner on saturday, but by the time it was over we were both ready to go get stella. it was so nice to have "us" time but we certainly missed her. yesterday was business as usual. we didn't even exchange gifts this year. i think we can both agree we have all we need. :) but sweet stella got a few new books from cupid to add to her growing collection.

sparklies

2011-02-03T20:41:00.000-06:00

i love things that sparkle.

especially PINK things that sparkle.

aren't those the most beautiful shoes EVER! I sent them to my husband on gchat today. our conversation went a little like this: Paige: If you're ever feeling especially generous (insert pic here) Steve: HAHA yea right Paige: But they are pink and SPARKLY Steve: What could you even wear pink sparkly heels with. Paige: Ummmm everything in my closet.

Needless to say...a girl can dream! (Stella has pink sparkly shoes...)

Wedding Bells!

2011-02-02T09:55:00.000-06:00

This post is a little late, but one of my very BFF's is gettting MAAAARRRIEEEDDD!!!! Dale asked Whitney to marry him when they went skiing in Colorado a few weeks back. They are like for real Barbie and Ken....they are the funniest couple and I am so happy for them.

I mean I am like soooo happy for them. I think I was just as excited when I got engaged. They have been together for so long and we were all waiting, but no one knew WHEN! (except Regan, but we won't get into that!!!!) I went to Jackson to celebrate about a week after they got back from Colorado and the whole wedding had basically been planned. haha. I lived with whit for the summer before I got married and needless to say it was ooc.

(REEALLY old picture from a swap freshman or sophomore year)

I am so happy for her and I am super excited to get to spend many a weekend celebrating with the entire FUN BUNCH (our nickname from college, there is no explanation needed). I love those girls so much!

(fun bunch +some others at super bulldog weekend)

I'm so honored to be part of the wedding and I can't wait for the festivities to begin! Love you whit!

Lately

2011-02-02T09:31:00.000-06:00

Hello Friends! We've been busy bee's in the Caldwell house lately, little time to sit down and blog! Steve is working and taking classes like CRAY CRAY! ON MWF he travels to Jackson for classes until noon then drives back to Vicksburg to work until 5:30 or 6. (did I mention he wakes up at 5:40 and goes to the gym!?) On T/TH he goes to work at 7 and works non stop until 5:30 or 6. Plus he's taking 4 more online classes. Whew, stresses me out just thinking about it. So Stella and I have been trying to hold down the home fort since Steve's so busy. I've been pretty busy with work too (I know I only work on T/TH, but i work from home alot too). I do love being at home with Miss Stella. Its such a joy to watch her grow and develop each day. Speaking of Miss Stella, she's 4 months and 2 weeks old. (We go to the Dr. this afternoon so I'll do a 4 month post tonight). She is growing like a weed! She starting sitting in her high chair last week and I cried. Yes. I cried. I'm not ready for that, little Miss is not old enough to do big girl things!

She is such a happy baby and let me tell you. She LOVES her daddy. You should see her face light up when he walks in the room. She just smiles and smiles. And when he plays with her she just giggles aloud.

A few prayer requests: Our friends Cliff and Kilby Whitney. Kilby has cancer and is nearing the end of her fight, they are just making her comfortable right now. I ask that you keep the Whitney family in your prayers as Kilby goes home to be with Jesus.

Also, my childhood friend Salena. She lives in Missouri now, but her family still lives on the coast. Her dad died Sunday and she is obviously having a very hard time. I ask that you keep her in your prayers as well.

More posts later, I'm in a bloggin' mood!

one special Sunday

2011-01-20T17:24:00.000-06:00

Last weekend was an eventful weekend filled with special memories. My husband was ordained as a Deacon at First Baptist Church in Vicksburg and our sweet princess was dedicated to the Lord all during the Sunday worship service. I have to say I had a hard time fighting back tears several times. I am so proud of my sweet husband, he is truly living his life for the Lord and our church family took notice. He is such a Godly man and I am blessed to call him my Husband. I am overwhelmed with joy for this honor he has been given. We had to stand in front of the church (with the 3 other newly ordained deacons and their wives) while the active deacons placed hands on them. It was such an amazing experience. I am so happy I was able to share this special time with Steve. Later in the service, Stella along with her little friend Chole (My friend Jodi's daughter) was dedicated. We AGAIN had to stand in front of the church.

Ya'll Stella was hilarious. I was so nervous she was going to act up, but she did just the opposite. While the pastor was explaining how we are to be Godly parents and set good examples, Stella was staring him down like she was listening to every word he was saying. And every time he would pause she would let out a HUGE smile, her whole little face would light up and her mouth would open real big (like she does when she gets really excited). The congregation broke into laughter several times. She's a cutie. After church, Steve's aunt and uncle hosted a lunch for our family and close friends in honor of Steven and Stella.

cuteness

2011-01-16T19:37:00.000-06:00

Prayers Needed

2011-01-11T17:42:00.000-06:00

Hello all. Prayers are needed in our house this week. We have a sick little girl on our hands. I though she seemed a little under the weather over the weekend, but since she is always so happy, smiling and cooing I figured I was imagining things. Then Sunday night we stayed the night at Steve's Aunt and Uncles because of the ice storm (we were nervous the power would go out at our house). She woke up numerous times in the middle of the night, which was strange for her. One time she woke up and was SUPER hot to the touch so I stripped her down to just her diaper and tried to put her back to sleep. But she was convinced it was "play time" and stayed up about an hour cooing and squealing. When I got her cool enough I was finally able to put her back to sleep. She woke up screaming the next morning (she normally wakes up smiling and laughing) so I immediately called the Doctor. I brought her in before lunch and my sweet girl was diagnosed with an ear infection and throat infection. I started crying in the her office because she looked so pitiful. She is doing ok now, but I can tell she doesn't feel good and it makes me sick. I've been squeezing and loving on her extra the past few days. Sometimes a girl just needs her momma.

Another prayer request, My Granddaddy is in the hospital once again. He has a multitude of health problems and now he is having blockage in his intestine. On top of that he has developed pneumonia. Please be in prayer for his speedy recovery and my grandmother who is with him every step of the way.

My Present

2011-01-11T17:30:00.000-06:00

I've had an obsession for about 5 years. It all started the summer of 2006 when all the celebrities were spotted wearing this fabulous stacked heel shoe by designer Christian Louboutin. Every.celebrity.ever. I wanted a pair so bad....I could spot that red sole anywhere. and from a mile away. But considering I was just a little ole' college student on a tight budget I settled for look-a-likes, minus the famous red sole :(. Steve and I had been dating prob a year when my red soled shoe obsession began and I know he was absolutely sick of hearing me say "ohhhh look at her louboutins" or "omg she has on louboutins". Fast forward 6 years...Christmas 2010...I begin opening my gift from him....the tiny one first. I just assumed it was jewelry, I mean it was in a jewelry sized box. However, it was a tiny red louboutin bag....like the dust bag for the shoes but smaller. I thought this was his attempt at a joke, to get me "tiny little louboutins" in a pint sized dust bag. However, as I opened the larger gift and saw the beautiful cream shoe box (yes I could spot the shoe box from a mile away also, with the beautiful Christian Louboutin signature on top). I nearly fainted. NO HE DID NOT BUY ME LOUBOUTINS....oh yes mam he did!! I started crying....yep I cried over a pair of shoes. But not just any shoes...my first pair of louboutins! (I realize some of you think I am absolutely crazy and truth be told I may be :) ). Viola....

behold...the "simple 85 pump". they are so comfy and the perfect shoe for every day wear. I know I will wear them forEVA!!!

Stella's First Christmas

2011-01-08T07:18:00.000-06:00

We all knew this Christmas was going to be special but we didn't realize just how special it would be. You know the feeling you got about Christmas as a child? How fun and exciting and MAGICAL Chirstmas was? How December seemed to be the longest month ever and how you just couldn't wait to open your presents on Christmas morning? For the past few years I've longed for that feeling again and I think we've found it. Having Stella this Christmas season was truly magical. Buying her gifts and being Santa Claus were just the icing on the cake. I know she won't remember this Christmas or even care about the astronimacal amount of gifts she recieved (everyone went WAY overboard on this baby) but Christmas was magical and exciting again. I couldn't wait to give her the gifts and have someone help her open them. I tear up just thinking about how sweet this baby girl is. Isn't this the cutest picture with Santa that you've ever laid your eyes on??

Stella is quite spoiled as I'm sure you can imagine. All her grandparents are divorced or remarried so that essentially means 4 Christmases, not including a certain Great Aunt and Uncle who also act as Santa Claus and 2 sets of Great Grandparents. All in all, I believe the child had 6 different Christmases. (this can't continue!!). After her 4 day whirlwind of Christmas I walked in to her room and was taken aback....she's one blessed little girl.

Christmas with Pops, look at that rocking horse!!!

Christmas in Morgan City with Grammie, opening her first presents

Christmas with my dad and brothers

Santa Claus Came

Christmas with Nana

We truly realize how blessed we are to have such amazing family. Stella is never short of hugs or kisses or toys!! Here's our little fam on Christmas!

Stella: 3 Months

2011-01-04T13:37:00.000-06:00

My sweet little angel is 3 months. Can't believe how fast time is flying. I would freeze time if I could. I love her more than words can explain. Ya'll she is getting so big. I know she seems small to everyone else (she's a petite little thing) but she has doubled her birth weight!! If she is still gaining an ounce a day she weighs 12.5 lbs and she's 25 inches long. (supermodel, I'm telling ya) She has a smile that melts my heart (and I'm sure yours too!).

She was 3 months on Dec 23. She is such a good baby ya'll. Sometimes I can't believe how blessed we are to have such a good baby. She normally only cries when she gets really sleepy or hungry. But most days I can catch it before she even cries. She has REALLY discovered her voice because she SQUEALS with delight about 75% of the day. Yesterday I couldn't even talk to my mom on the phone because she was just SQUEALING too loud! I love it. She is sleeping through the night! Usually 10pm until 5 or 6am! Everyone once in awhile she'll wake up around 3, but she doesn't take long to get back to sleep. I'm still nursing and the child loves it. I mean she LOVES it. She HATES bottles. But now since I've had to go to work 2 days a week she HAS to take a bottle. She is slowly but surely getting the hang of it. At night she gets a rice bottle and she has some aversions to it but its growing on her (and making her grow)! I mean, just look at this belly!

She has also started teething. She drools non stop and wants to literally stuff her.entire.hand. into her mouth ALL THE TIME. She loves that hand.

She started using teething ring occasionally a few weeks ago and they seem to help. She looks like such a big girl holding that teething ring in her hand. I just feel like she is growing up too fast! A few pictures from the last few weeks.

pooped!

Santa!!

Watching Daddy get ready for work

1st trip to Church

Things that make me smile at 3 months:

1. I love when she squeals!! It just makes my day. She's a squealer.

2. I love that she smiles so much! Somtimes she's too busy smiling to eat.

3. Her laugh. She laughed for the first time on Christmas Day (Santa will do that to ya!) and its the sweetest sound I've ever heard.

4. The little fat roll on her wrist. Its so precious.

5. How alert she is. Almost every person that meets her comments about how alert she is. I'm a proud momma!

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

2010-12-18T08:29:00.000-06:00

I'm sooo late on my annual Christmas post! I've started back to work two days a week so I cherish the time I have at home with the wee one! Anywho, I FINALLY got my Christmas decorations up. It literally took me 2 weeks and there aren't even that many! I would just rather snuggle with Stella than decorate this year! I took a pic of everything but the mantle (which is my favorite, so I'm quite confused as to why I wouldn't take its picture, but I'll take one tonight and repost). Stella has officially been in Christmas attire since the day after Thanksgiving. I just can't stop buying cute little Christmas outfits. (my husband is ready to take away all my rights to the bank account, for real.) But its her first Christmas...duhhhhhh.

The Tree

I really, REALLY wanted a real tree this year. But I as too impatient to wait for the hubs to bring me to get one. But next year WE WILL HAVE A REAL TREE! for Stella!

front door

close up

dining room

close up of mantle...but not one with the stockings..

bookshelf

tv stand

above the fridge

Thats most of the decor. There's more, but not worth taking pics of. I love the holidays and always cherish a few holiday traditions (peppermint ANYTHING, Christmas carols, riding around to see the lights, eggnog, apple cider,) but this year I've tried especially hard to think about the reason for the season and keep that in my mind always. Its amazing to me that Jesus was once a baby like Stella (I tell her this daily...she doesn't quite understand just yet...but we're working on it). I want holidays in the Caldwell house to be something special, so I may have gone a bit (or alot ) overboard on the Christmas clothes, the presents for Stella, the Christmas books, and everything else for her first Christmas but I want her to love this time of year as much as I do. And one day I want her to really appreciate the reason for Christmas.

I love family traditions so we're implementing a few ones in the Caldwell house for our little Stella! I'll do another post on that soon!

blessings

2010-12-06T10:20:00.000-06:00

Over the past week or so several prayers have been answered and we've been truly blessed. One I'd like to share with you relates to my job. Since Stella was born Steve and I have been discussing whether I would return to work and we went back and forth, back and forth for some time. Eventually, after alot of prayer, discussion, and number crunching we decided that I would stay home with Stella for the time being. I was so excited to be able to stay home with her and I went several weeks ago to speak with my boss. I was so torn about my decision, I wanted more than anything to stay home with Stella, but the thought of losing my income and job was hard to swallow. Anyway, my boss was very understanding and supportive and we discussed some options that may extend my leave, work a few days a week, etc. I honestly didn't have much hope for any of these ideas since they had to be approved by corporate.
Last week I received an email that I honestly didn't expect. God is so good and he surprises us with blessings even when we have doubts. I can truly honestly say that I DOUBTED this would work out for the best. I'm so embarrassed that I doubted God could work this out for my family and I.   Not only did he answer my prayers but he showed me to trust in him ALWAYS! Back to the email...I can now work 2 days a week in the office (so only away from Stella 2 DAYS) and one day from home. I will now be part time within the same job. Luckily, they hired a sweet girl (who single handedly handled ALL the events while I was on maternity leave) and she will be full time in order to keep everything running smoothly. This set up is going to be a learning process and I'm sure I'm going to miss my sweet girl while I'm away, but I don't have to worry too much about her. My sister in law moved to Vicksburg in August to attended Grad School at Mississippi College and her class schedule is flexible enough that she can keep Stella while I work. (Isn't it amazing how God sets up things?) So! I can keep my job and my stay with my little girl (most of the time).

My initial plan was to sell real estate with Aunt Harley, I've taken the classes and I just have to take the final test to be licensed. I STILL plan on doing this, SOOOO IF you are looking for a house (or looking to sell your house) in the Vicksburg area, call me!

All of you know my biggest blessing...STELLA! I want to start sharing little things about her that I just LOVE and eventually I'd like to make a "book" of my blog posts about her so we will never forget this time in our lives.   My friend Becca writes a list of her favorite things about her son (who's just a week younger than Stella) so Im going to steal her idea! (I'm so original aren't I?)
Things I LOVE about Stella at Month 2:
1. I absolutely love when she smiles at me (and Steve). Especially when she smiles as big as she possible can (it seriously takes up half her little face) I think my heart is going to explode with love. Its the most precious sight.
2. I LOVE the mornings with her. She is definately a morning person. She's so happy in the mornings, she just smiles and coo's most of the morning.
3. I LOVE when she talks. She doesn't really "talk" but those sweet noises that come out of her mouth are the most precious sounds I've ever heard. Her daddy and I just love to carry on conversations with her. She's def a talker (hmmm wonder who she got that from??)
4. I LOVE when she twirls (and PULLS) my hair while she's nursing.
5. I LOVE when she grips her little hand around my fingers.
6. I LOVE how she kicks her legs when she gets excited (or hungry. or upset. or happy)

There is so much more I love about her but those little things just make my heart smile.

Happy Monday Everyone!

Random Thoughts for the Day

2010-12-05T21:59:00.000-06:00

I feel like I've done so much this weekend, we've barely been at home...but I didn't get much accomplished on my "to do" list....I can't really think right now I'm so tired but I didn't want to start neglecting my blog again. So here's what's running through this brain of mine right now.

1. I burned about 1,000 calories today trying to fit into my old fat jeans...finally got them zipped and couldn't walk they were so tight. But at least I got a work out.
2. Stella went to Church for the first time today (pictures to follow) and she did fantastic in the nursery. They gave us our beeper and I couldn't stop looking at it to make sure Stella didn't need her momma! We went to get her after church and she was getting so much attention!! She was loving it all! And everyone in the nursery said she was a doll! (that's my girl :) ) However, when it was time for "family portraits in front of the Christmas tree" (in honor of her first day at church) she erupted in screams. Not sure what the deal was with that but obviously the princess did not feel photogenic today.
3. I went to a baby shower today (at Ellen's house and it was FABULOUS) and only consumed two tiny little snacks. hip hip hooray. willpower! (congrats to Jordan on her sweet little boy)
4. I'm ready to make Reggie sleep on the floor. and in another room. and maybe outside. HE'S OUT OF CONTROL. I assume its the lack of attention and he feels neglected. Well this big mama can't take care of an infant and a spoiled little dog at the same time. It seems he's forgotten how to use the bathroom outside (convenient huh? ) and he seems to bark REALLY loud just as Stella drifts off for a nap. But somehow...I still love him....Whats wrong with me?
5. Steve's going to Michigan tomorrow. For a week. I hate when he leaves.
6. I hate laundry. hate.it.with.a.passion.
7. Finally ordered a usb cord for our camera, so i can finally update the blog with cute pictures of Stella.
8, Stella's Christmas cards are adorbs. LOVE THEM. We I'm mailing them out this week. You'll just want to pinch her cheeks when you see them.

Ok friends, that's all for now. I'm off to do LAUNDRY...see #6.

Post Pregnancy Rants

2010-12-01T11:15:00.000-06:00

I love my little angel. with all my heart. But what I don't love is the massive belly she left behind. Wasn't this supposed to leave my body when she did? Well friends, its still there, along with massive thighs, arms, calves, feet, boobies, etc, etc, etc. The first month I was ok with it because I mean I "just" had a baby! Its been two months and I look like I just gave birth yesterday. I'm serious. I'm edging on plus sized. The problem is I can't fit into ANY of my clothes. No skinny clothes from pre pregnancy and no empire waist mumu's from pregnancy. I just wear leggings every day (black is slimming). Thank goodness poncho's are in style because they are fabulous at hiding my fat cells. Not to mention, I went to Zumba class last week and some lady asked me when I was due. I almost threw my water bottle at her head. (i kid. i kid.) In all seriousness, I've been really self conscious the past 2 months, Steve and Holley had to practically kidnap me to get me to Starkville for a game this year. I just didn't want to be "the girl that gained 800 lbs".
I will be the first to admit I gained too much weight while pregnant. I mean the day I found out I was pregnant Steve and I went to eat pizza and I had WAY more than I normally did. I never got sick during the beginning of my pregnancy so there was none of that "losing weight to begin with". I usually watched what I ate to some degree and when I was pregnant all inhibitions went out the window. And I reasoned with myself that it was okay. I am furious with myself for letting it get this far.
I am going to be completely honest. I haven't been trying hard to lose weight. I've been lazy when it comes to weight loss. However, in my defense, several people told me that by breastfeeding I would burn so many calories that the weight would just "fall off". Let me tell you...that ISN'T TRUE! (for me at least, I know its true for some people) For awhile I just figured that it would "take awhile" for the breastfeeding trick to kick into effect. Now I've come to realize that nursing isn't a magic weight loss trick and I've got to get up and get moving. I've been doing Zumba once a week and I've signed up for classes twice a week. But I've got to stop eating like I'm still pregnant. I still have to eat at least 1800 calories a day to breastfeed but I need to stop at that. Its just so easy to eat BAD!
Today I started writing down everything I eat. Hopefully this will give me an idea of where I'm going wrong.

But here's my game plan :First off...lock down on the Fridge:

Second...exercise more. I've been exercising sporadically since I got the go ahead from my doctor. But I haven't gotten in a routine and I seriously can't function without a routine.
Third...realize that its not going to happen overnight. I may never be as small as I once was but I just want to fit into my old clothes.
Fourth...stop reasoning with myself. I don't weight myself (i'm going to start) so I always reason with myself that "I'm not that big"....but lets get real people.

Thanks for listening to my rant. I needed to vent.

This is a very personal struggle for me and I'm not writing this for ya'll to feel sorry for me or anything to that nature. I just feel like I'm talking to friends and I would tell my friends the exact same thing. I know that there are much bigger issues in the world than me fitting back into my skinny jeans, but this is a struggle for me right now. My blog is a place where I can be open and honest and I am don't plan on editing myself in my personal space. I know God is in control and I just have to ask him for help. BUT I must do my part, God isn't going to let this weight just "fall off", I have to do my part too.

2 Months

2010-12-01T10:20:00.000-06:00

Its official....my sweet girl is 2 months old (more like 9.5 weeks but we just went to the Doctor yesterday!). The past 2 months have flown by (don't I always say when talking about Stella's age?) Every day she learns something new and it just makes my heart smile. She has started cooing and "talking" all throughout the day (it used to only be in the morning). I love her little voice and how she discovers different sounds she can make...its seriously the cutest thing ever. She has discovered her hands and feet...Steve and I just stared at her in amazement and she played with her little feet a few weeks ago. It was seriously the most amazing thing. ever. And my absolute favorite thing...she smiles SO BIG every time Steve and I smile or laugh at her. It melts my heart every.single.time. She seriously has the biggest smile ever.
At her well baby visit yesterday she weighed 10.8 lbs which is the 50th percentile so she is right on target as far as her weight! She is still gaining an ounce a day, which is perfect (she's gained 2.4 lbs since the last visit)! And she is LONG...I'm talking really long. She is 24 inches (TWO WHOLE FEET!) Thats the 95th percentile (the doctor put it like this "only 5% of babies her age are longer than she is") Ummm WOW...she surely didn't get that from me! I have a supermodel baby. yep.
She's also sleeping really well. We bathe her at 8:30 or 9 every night and then she gets her last feeding and goes to sleep somewhere between 9:30 and 10. She usually sleeps until 4 or 5 (however once a week or so she'll wake up randomly at 2:30 or 3. she's spontaneous) Isn't she precious sleeping?

Gah! She is so beautiful! I just want to squeeze her all the time!! She got her shots at the doctor yesterday and I was most definitely more nervous than she was!

She wasn't sweating it...She was so good during her visit, smiling and "cooing" at her doctor! But then they game in with the shots...she held on to each of my pointer fingers with her tiny hands (wish I would have had a picture because it was presh) She was fine after the first shot but as soon as she got the 2nd she screamed so loud you could have heard her across the hospital! And the 3rd one was the same. Poor baby. I was sick watching her cry those big tears (the tears kill me. seriously.) More photos from before the dr....she didn't know what was in store for her!

Since she has gotten her shots and will be 10 weeks Thursday, we are going to bring her to church for the first time on Sunday. I'm really nervous....I'm talking really nervous...I'm so scared of germs. But Steve and I have been alternating Sundays and we are ready to have our family back at church together. All 3 of us.

She is the happiest baby. She only cries when she is hungry. (and sometimes she has a "fussy" period during the day but not always".) We have finally got the art of nursing down, it really took us awhile and it wasn't always easy but we have mastered it. (Thanks to my friend and new mom Becca for giving me lots of tips and support!) And she can fully hold her head up by herself, not for extended periods of time, but she is pretty darn good at it. She is making good progress. And I'm so proud of her. Plus she's just too darn cute!

And on another note....GO BULLDOGS!!!! 2010 Egg Bowl Champions, love it!

Busy Busy Busy

2010-11-29T11:40:00.000-06:00

Whew! I just posted like 6 things in an hour! I'm trying to get the blog up to date so I can blog more regularly! I've still got to fill everyone in on Thanksgiving and Stella's 2 month photos! But that must come later, first I've got to decorate for Christmas!!! I love to do "themed decorating", you'll remember last year's Animal Print theme. I do love animal print, but I wanted to do something a bit more whimsical this year since we have a child and all! I'm being very indecisive and all my decor is sitting in the living room and dining room. Steve said it looked like Christmas threw up in our house! So I've got to get off the computer and get to work!! The tree is somewhat complete, but I need a few more "fun" ornaments to complete it! Plus, I haven't found the "perfect" stocking for Stella yet and Its DRIVING ME CRAZY!! So I'll be back sooner rather than later!

1st Visit to Grammy's

2010-11-29T11:34:00.000-06:00

2 weeks ago, we headed south to visit Steve's mom (Grammy) and show Stella off to the family in South Louisiana! I was a bit worried about the car ride because she had never been in a car longer than 2 hours but she did wonderful! We stopped about halfway there so I could feed her and then we were on our way again! She didn't cry at all! She loves, I repeat LOVES the car AS LONG AS ITS MOVING. Once the car stops, she starts getting agitated! On our way back from Mistletoe a few weeks back I got stuck in traffic on I-20 for about 30 min. She cried the entire time. The only thing that would make her calm down was me singing "Jesus loves me" LOUDLY. I don't know whether she liked my singing (God Bless her) or if she was so scared by the sound of me singing that she stopped crying. But whatever works. Right?
Anyway! We had a lovely extended weekend in Morgan City! We went to this Culinary Arts fair downtown, but it was basically over so we took the time to pose for a few pics with the princess. We ate good, really good the entire time! And we got to visit with lots of family.

Random Cuteness

2010-11-29T11:25:00.000-06:00

I love this little girl :)

Can you believe how big she is getting?