Our Visit

JB, Jade and I had a fabulous time with Nic, CJ and Steph! While they were visiting we took them to Seattle so they could experience what a real big city feels like;) Here we are eating at Pike's Place Market...yum!

Some random guy offered to take our picture, but it was so windy it was hard to actually get a good one.

Nic took this pic of Jade and I because she said we needed one in front of the store "House of Jade". Yes, that bundle of pink is my baby

We couldn't leave Seattle without a stop at the very first Starbucks, I got a carmel mocha while there...SO sweet!!

Rachelle decided we couldn't have so much fun all by ourselves and joined us for an evening to hang out. Aren't all our kiddos super cute? Kyri and CJ are only three days apart:)

When we weren't out shopping, eating and having fun, we let the cousins play together.

I got to sneak in as many hugs and kisses onto CJ as I could possible get...he's SO cute! And smiles all the time!!!

Steph became Jade's adoptive Aunt while she was here and I think Jade found this the most comfy position to sleep in.

hahahaha! I just love this pic!

We had a wonderful visit, I can't wait til we are all together again. Even JB was sad to see them go I think he liked having another man around the house, LOL! (he told me I couldn't post this pic...hee, hee)

My Sister and Steph are coming!

Woohoo!! (Missi singing) "Tomorrow, tomorrow...I'll love ya, tomorrow...it's only a day away!!!"
My older sis and my good friend and my tiny Nephew are all coming to visit me tomorrow! I found this fabulous picture of Nic, Kara and me in my photo archives...this is us striking our famous "Angels" pose at a work Christmas party a few years ago. lol!

I found this pic of Steph and me where we are at our friends wedding. *sigh* good times, good times.

This fabulous "foot" picture was taken during one of our hiking trips in Virginia.

And here is some of our group from that hiking trip. I'm not sure if Greg is trying to push Steph in or just get his hands dried off. hmm.

Sorry, Nic, I had to put this pic in...it's to funny! hahahaha! Kara, Kara my friend...your hair looks awesome! And Nic...rollers...lol! I LOVE it!

I'm so excited about our trip! I can't wait to see my nephew and see my sister and see my friend! I haven't seen everyone since August and it feels like a lifetime has passed since then. I'll post pics of our trip, cause I'm sure everyone is gonna wanna see how cute we all look together...plus, see what an exciting visit we are most likely to have:) AH! I'm so excited!

My life as a mom

Today marks one whole month that I have been a mom. It seems odd to me that only a month ago I was a very pregnant women at a bowling alley...bowling with friends.

I'd say "time sure does fly" but I must admit this has been quite the long month. Adapting to parenthood isn't as simple as I thought it would be. Those multiple midnight feedings take their toll on a body.

So my life goes something like this right now. Feeding Jade, changing Jade (both diaper and clothes), putting Jade down for a nap, trying to fit in some sort of domestic task (laundry, dishes, cleaning, etc) taking a quick nap, then starting it all over again. But who could get tired of that?

Look at this little bundle of joy:) Her little red face and pouty lips make me melt everytime I hold her.

Right now Jade is sleeping in her bouncy seat, tiny sounds of contentment are being uttered from her little mouth. I have the laundry going, dishes stacked to be washed, my shower taken and my bed actually made. I'm feeling very accomplished this morning, so much so, I figured I could take the time to write a nice long blog post.

Grandma Bechtle left on Saturday:( We will all miss her! It won't be long til we see you again!

Hope everyone is having a great Presidents day!

It's Friday!

Even at three weeks old, Jade understands the happiness that comes from knowing it's friday :)

Happy friday everyone!

Jade's V-day thoughts

"Ah, this is the life. Eating, sleeping, being held, eating, sleeping, being held...I could do this forever"
"Huh, what was that mom? You think I should aspire to something more then just eating and sleeping and going potty?"

"This is such a shock to me, a blow to my tiny mind. I'll have to take a nap and spend some time thinking more about my future."

"*sigh*, nevermind...I think I'll just sleep. Goodnight everyone. Hope your Valentine's was as peaceful and restful as mine"

Where are my roses? ~Jade

Jade: "Daddy brought mommy a dozen red roses. *pout* How come he didn't get any for me? Aren't I his true love too?
Mom: Oh Jade, Daddy says we can share the roses, don't be sad.

Jade: Me, you want me to share my roses with you? I don't think so!!

Mom: *sigh* I guess we'll have to work on the whole "sharing" idea pretty soon here.

Valentine's pictures soon to follow:)

Grandma B came out to visit on Saturday night! Praise the Lord for his continued blessing to me:) I love all this wonderful help I am getting. Little Jade seems to be enjoying all the attention as well.
Here she is with her Grandma Sunday morning on her way to church for her baby dedication. Note the lovely baby gown she is wearing, her Aunt Autumn made it for her. *sigh* she looks so pretty!

Three different lives

Sometimes I feel as though I have lived three different lives. The life I lived at home, the short time I lived all on my own, and now my married life. I was looking at pictures today from my home life, single life, and now married life and came to this deep realization. *grin*

Isn't it interesting how God places you in certian circumstances or with certian friends for only a time? Why is it there are people who have been in my life, that have impacted me in a HUGE way that I no longer talk to any more? It was as though God threw them into my life to make some point and then pulled them back out after the lesson was learned, or whatever the reason they had been there.

It makes me sad to think about, I miss many of the people in my past. I am so grateful to my old friends who helped me along the way and were influentual in making me the person I am today. I guess it reminds me to not take any one for granted, even those who I may not really like:) Because a few years from now (or who knows maybe a few days) I may look back and see just how much God used people in my life to bless me.

Anyway, this is a random sort of post. I guess, in some ways, I wish all the old friends of my childhood and teenage years could read this and know how much I love them and am grateful to them for being my friend, even if it was just for a short time.

Life goes by fast, I am happy God gives us moments of stillness and calm so we can reflect on His grace and mercy in our lives.

Happy Birthday Jo Jo!

Wow, the time sure does fly! I hope you have the best birthday every!!! Wish I was there to sing you "Happy Birthday"

Happy Birthday Nic!

We may not be in the same state...but I'm thinking about you just the same!! Happy birthday to my favorite older Sister!! I love you!

Grandma "M" and Jade

Jade made her first "chuch" appearance this morning. Sporting her new dress and sweater outfit from Auntie Jo. Here she is with her beautiful Grandmother Mangione:)

A day or two ago I layed her down in the boppy supervised by Grandma M, at first she found this postion very comfortable, but soon realized if she kicked hard with her feet she could slowly scoot her self, closer and closer to the edge of the boppy.

Her efforts were in vain though, as we wouldnt' allow her to push herself over the edge as she had hoped. She wasn't to happy about that.

But soon she calmed herself...ya gotta love this "duh" expression on her face! lol!

At any rate, here is another picture taken of Jade today in her cute little dress from Aunt Jo...this one is without the matching sweater. (look at her skinny legs sticking out of the dress! Isn't she the cutest?)

Hair pics!

Check out my Mom's Site for some cute hair pics of Jade!

First Bath

We decided this morning that at 8 days old, it was about time we hauled out the baby bath tub and did more then give Jade a little sponge bath. I was a bit worried how she would handle the little tub full of warm water...but I think she did rather well.

So calm, so peaceful...so red...like a little Indian:)

All done! Time to wrap her up and get her long black hair dry. Of course, as soon as we pulled her out of the tub she went pee pee all over mommy:) Oh, the joys of motherhood. Ya gotta love it:)

One visit over...

Grandpa Mangione left early this morning back home. We had a nice visit while he was out, took him to see some of our pretty parks and our lovely littel city. He and mom got to enjoy our warmer weather and all the wonderful sunshine we had over the weekend.

Grandpa M also got his first "xbox" experiance. Both he and Jonathan love football so it was only right that JB teach him how to play "Madden Football" on xbox. For a guy who has never played xbox before, he caught on rather quickly. Also, check out the nice rocking chair they got us!!

Baby Jade seems to think the greatest joy in life is sleeping. We do catch her smiling in her sleep and absent mindedly moving her mouth as though she is eating. We all say she is dreaming of food and waterfalls of milk:)

She finds her boppy pillow a great place to nap as well:)

Amazed

I can't believe that baby Jade is already five days old today. I find myself in awe over this tiny little baby God has given to our family. She is so calm and sweet and precious. Cries only when she is hungry or needs a diaper change. *sigh* We are very blessed!
Grandpa Mangione came out to see his newest grand-daughter yesterday, complete with a jade cross pendant for her very first piece of jewlry. He was so happy to see her he ran up our stairs when he entered the house to give her a hug and a kiss. Grandma Mangione has been with us since 3am Monday morning and has done everything from laundry to cooking, to holding baby during middle of the night wake ups...she's cleaned our house, read us stories and overall been my hero while I learn how to be a new mom.

Jonathan is the best father in all the world, spending every moment he can holding and caring for Jade. When she wakes up he calmly tells her "its okay Jade, you don't have to cry daddy's got you".

I'm, of course, as happy as a brand new mommy can be. What do you think...does Jade look more like Mommy or Daddy;)

Thank you everyone for all your prayers and support! We are very grateful for all the cards, presents and even meals that have been sent our way! Thank you!

Jade's Journey

We arrived at the hospital at 3:00a.m. on January 21st....

27 Hours later...Jade Elizabeth Bechtle arrived!!

Mommy and baby

The Bechtle FamilyReady to go home!

Passion

Recently I was talking with a friend of mine when the topic of "What are you passionate about" was brought up. Ironically it was a conversation related to fashion and personal style, but after we talked it got me thinking. What am I passionate about? When was the last time I actually took the time to even review my life and consider what I have done, where I am going and what I want to do?

So often I find myself just going with the flow, living my life one day at a time and just seeing what happens. I've found that even when I'm not paying any attention God is constantly working, always moving in my life and in the lives of those around me. And yet, I rarely take the time to acknowledge Him beyond my moments spent in my quiet time and sunday morning service.

Not to long ago if you were to approach me and say "Missi, what are you passionate about? What has God been doing in your life" I would probably have smiled and said "Got all afternoon?"...but if you were to ask me that right now, I'd have to stop and think...maybe take a few days to really digest the question and come up with an answer.

What are you passionate about? What desires has God given to you that drive you in life? Do you have goals? Dreams? Beyond the exterior...who are you and why?

Last night I spent a very fit full nights rest, trying to get comfortable with my large pregnancy belly and constant visits to the bathroom. In the stillness of the night I found myself lost in thoughts and memories of my life and where God has taken me. I wanted to cry as I poundered everything God has done for me and how I take so much...if not all of it, for granted. Without even realizing my own selfishness I saw just how much I felt entitled to the good life I have lead, all the blessings that God has continually poured out to me. Hardships? What are those? I think I have had hardships, after all when I was single I struggled with money often, I gained weight, I lost friendships and broke off relationships that hurt so bad at the time, I've fought with siblings, I've gotten angry at people and various meaningless circumstances...but aside from that, what have I ever suffered? Nothing. Not really.

I guess I don't really know where I'm going with this post other then it has been humbling to take the time to review my life and see just how merciful God is and how it must pain Him to see the way I react to the life He has so graciously given to me. I know I don't thank people in my life enough for what they have done, let alone taken the time to thank God for what he has done/given to me.

As far as my passions and desires...I think I need to take more time to think it over before I have any kind of an answer beyond the very basic longings of my heart. Anyway, something to think about.

Tomorrow is my husbands birthday! Today we are throwing a little party for him! It should be a fun day!

39 weeks

One more week til my due date! Ah! I'm getting so excited! Here is me with my "buddha" belly. lol! Ya, gotta love it;)

Who is gonna go to the Super Bowl?

Ahahahaha! Football has become a very big part of my life, since being married to JB. I use to watch football a few times a year at home...Thanksgiving, Christmas...the Superbowl...that was about it. I've never been able to really understand the sport and aside from enjoying playing it with my family...I'm clueless about players, positions, scores, etc.

All that has now changed.

I was on the edge of my seat for the last three football games in a row! Now its Colts vs. Patriots and Bears vs. Saints! Ah! The suspense is killing me! Can I wait til Sunday to find out who will go to the Superbowl?!

Jonathan mentioned to me yesterday that I didn't have "Feb 4th, The Superbowl" listed as one of the things I am looking foward to this new year. So I guess I better add that now:)

I have become a Colts fan since that is JB's team...but personally I'm pretty partial to the Patriots...not sure how I'm gonna cheer next sunday! AH!

Last day of work

It is an odd feeling to me, in some ways. That today is my last day of work til after the baby...and beyond. I will work again, after the baby is born, very part-time, but I just don't think it will be the same. I am excited that I get this time off before the baby comes, and I'm excited at the thought of not having to work for a long while. I am sure part of me will miss it though, I do love my job and I like being busy all the time. Hmmm.

So anyway, here are some things I have to look foward to:

Today being the last day of work

21st is Jonathan's birthday!

23rd is my due date!

24th my Mom comes!

Somwhere between the 24th and Feb 10th the baby comes!

Feb 10th my Mother-in-law comes

Feb 22nd my sister and friend come to visit!

March I start up work again and celebrate one year of Marriage. Wow, a lot has happened in this short amount of time. Who would have thought?

38 weeks!

It kind of looks like I'm in mourning today with all that black I am wearing...hmmm...perhaps I should go add some color:)
Here I am at 38 weeks...not much longer to go!!! I'm so excited! Baby, are you ready to meet mommy and daddy?

Celery and Peanut butter

After my last midwife appointment, I was informed that I really needed to stay away from eating salty foods, start drinking even more water and keep my feet up at night. I've started to get a bit of swelling in my feet and ankles and the midwife just thought it best I avoid having the swelling get any worse.

I took her advice well and promptly got in my car and started craving all the yummy chips, crackers and various salty items I have stashed in my cabinets at home. *sigh* I love salty foods! Its a terrible thing really. When I use to live on my own often my dinner would be chips and salsa and a good movie:)

I like to think I can have a lot of self control in the area of food...but honestly, once you start craving certain foods and you eat them regularly, its really hard to stop. This weekend was super tough. All I wanted to do was pull into every fast food resturant I passed and buy french fries...lots of french fries! At home I forced my husband to finish up the last bit of chips I had in the cabinet to keep me from snacking on the salty treat all afternoon. It got so bad I decided I'd call my mom and see what she had to say.

Her solution was simple. Find healthy, natural foods that continue good salts in them and start munching. Do it for three days and you may start losing your cravings for the "bad" food. Her suggestion was that I start with something easy like celery and pair the celery with a completely natural peanut butter.

Skippy Natural has sugar and salt in it, so its not the best choice, but it does make for a nice picture on my blog.

Since Saturday when I've gotten a super strong salt craving and I want some chips or fries, I have pulled out some celery, topped it off with some healthy peanut butter and ...viola! Craving gone.

It's not perfect yet, after all...its only Monday. But for those of you out there who love salty foods like me, here is a healthy option to get yourself out of the salt loving rut:)

Taking a Walk outside

For the past couple days...weeks...I have found it to be either to cold or way to windy/rainy to take a walk outside. This being the case I have tried to make up for the lack of being able to walk outside by walking in place in my living room while watching very interesting shows on tv. Shows like "Babies: Special Delivery" and "Top Chef"...you know...all the best ones. Sometimes I even am able to schedule my indoor walking time around the same time as "That 70's show" which is always amusing.

Well, yesterday, the sun decided to peak out and actually stay out for most of the whole day. Not only that, but it wasn't very cold or all that windy. I took the opportunity to go for a nice brisk stroll.

Now, most of you have seen the picture of me and how big my baby belly has become. If any of you have ever been pregnant of seen a pregnant women in her 9th month you know what I mean when I say I don't really walk any more...I waddle. For some odd reason, its not just myself that finds my waddling to be amusing. I got more stares and yells from cars passing by then I ever think I did when I was a normal sized, non-waddling girl. *sigh*

I was starting to wonder if walking outside was worth it with all the staring, and found myself crossing streets or turning corners just to avoid running into another walker or passer by for fear of the belly comments.

As I rounded the corner to my house I saw my neighbor outside smoking his cigeratte and looking about as bored as an old man can look on a beautiful day. Part of me wanted to just walk inside and not talk with my neighbor friend. He was a nice old man, but I wasnt' sure if I wanted to get caught up in one of his long conversations or hear about the time his wife got pregnant with twins and how "BIG" she got...again. But, trying to be Christian I didn't ignore his wave and walked up to say "hello". During the course of our conversation I found out some things about him that I never knew, about his morals and religious standing. I also learned just how bitter he was at his upstairs neighbors (he lives in a duplex) and their rude behavior to him.

It occured to me while we were talking that maybe God had Jonathan and I living where we do for more reasons then it just being a great location for his work and our church. But that sometimes God can use where you live and who you live by to reach out to people in your area or neighborhood. It also occured to me that our neighbor really does like JB and I and talks with us whenever he can...but his liberal, upstairs neighbors who are suppose to be all about "peace, love and no war" he can't stand and feels slighted by. Could it be that conservative, Christian Jonathan and I could actually be a light to this very lost and very confused old man? Even though our political and religious and moral views are SO completely different?

After our long conversation I went inside to ponder this and pray for our neighbors. One thing I had hoped for in this new year of my life, is that God would give me the opportunity to reach out to more people then just my immediate friends. That He would use me to show his love to some of the very unlovlies of this world.

Anyway, just interesting what God will show you even on a simple walk around your neighborhood. Needless to say, I'm glad I decided to get out and about yesterday.

Babies room

Me at 37 weeks. Yep, my friends...I have a big baby belly and I am ready to pop:) Since all I can think about is baby, I have been wondering what more I can do with the small space we have dedicated for the babies room.

The other day it occured to me just how bare the wall is above the babies crib. I looked online and found very cute winnie the pooh pictures and lots of very expensive frames and shelves. Not having all the money in the world...I decided I'd try my hand at making up my own art for that bare wall.

What do you think? Its not all that impressive, but I think with some cute little frames from Target or Wal-mart I can turn these silly little water colors into the perfect solution for the cribs bare wall:) I am very proud of myself...saving money and being creative!

2007

Can you believe it is already 2007? I'm so glad the New Year is here, but gosh it seemed to have gone by super fast.

Its pouring rain outside. There is a really cute couple across the street at the bus stop huddled under a small umbrella. I have a funny feeling it isn't doing them much good, not in this wind and rain. It is days like this that make me very grateful that I work from home and I don't have to drive around in all the icky weather.

So, any New Years resolutions? I made one...to have a baby!! hahahaha! Ok, so I guess that's not really a resolution since of course I'm gonna have a baby this year. I guess I didn't do much reflecting to decide on anything I really want to change in my life this New Year. Perhaps I will take some moments to think about things and type them out for all of you to read:)

Missi's Plans for 2007
Become a Mom
Eat/Cook healthier
Read more
Reach out to more people
Meet more people at church
Join a bible study or womens ministry group:)
Take my baby for jogs in the park this spring/summer
Go to the beach!!!

Ok, I guess that is enough for now. Some silly things I plan and hope to do in 2007:) I feel so much better now.

Happy New Year everyone!