Tallie's Tattles

Living Gluten Free

2011-11-23T10:22:00.000-08:00

Gluten does not agree with my waistline and my insides, but sometimes (especially with an appetite and love for food like I have) desire over comes brains and I give in. All week I've been prepping myself for the pain that will surely ensue after I indulge in glutenous Thanksgiving delights. Unless, I come prepped with some options that will keep my belly happy and my tastebuds satisfied? Refinery29 featured some yumm-o GF options (especially the one i've posted below). Looks colorful, fresh, and right up my alley! I'll definately be cooking this stuffing up tomorrow!

The Gluten-Free Alternative: Quinoa & Lentil Stuffing

Ingredients:
2 cups quinoa
2 cups lentils
Olive oil
4 oz white wine
4 quarts of gluten-free vegetable stock (substitute water for low-sodium alternative)
1 bunch kale, chopped into bite-size pieces
1 yellow onion, diced
1 clove of garlic, minced
1 small butternut squash, cubed
1 bunch sage, chopped
salt and pepper
2 oz Humboldt Fog soft goat cheese (optional)

Steps:

1. Roast Squash: Preheat oven to 450 degrees. Cut squash into 1” cubes; place on a baking sheet. Toss with olive oil; season with salt and pepper. Roast until tender and golden, about 25 minutes.

2. Make Quinoa: Drizzle 1 tablespoon olive oil in a small pot over high heat. Heat oil; add quinoa and toast, stirring constantly. When the quinoa starts to brown, pour in 4 cups stock; season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to a simmer and cover, 15 minutes. Set aside.

3: Cook Lentils: Place 2 cups of lentils and 4 ½ cups of vegetable stock (or water) in a small pot. Bring to a boil over high heat; turn down heat and simmer covered, 15 minutes. Stir occasionally, every 5 minutes, so lentils don’t burn. Season with salt and pepper; set aside.

4. Layer Flavors: In a large sauté pan over high heat, sauté onions until translucent. Season with salt and pepper. Add kale, season again, and sauté until wilted. Add garlic and sauté for about 20 seconds; pour in white wine. Cook until kale is tender, about 8 minutes. Set aside.

5. Toss and Bake: Combine all above items. Stir in a little stock, olive oil, and sage. Season. Top with cheese. Bake until the cheese is melted, about 10 minutes.

Bon Appetite!

Halloween 2011

2011-11-10T22:51:00.000-08:00

We had a MUCH happier Halloween weekend this year and had a full week of fun celebrating more than just a spooky Holiday. On Saturday we celebrated Annalee's Birthday and since we couldnt bring in the BIG 50 with much joy last year, we decided that we would celebrate the BIG 51 the right way! Special friends and close family came from near and far and we celebrated in style. This past year has been probably the most challenging ever for Annalee, my dad, and well...most of the family, so it was awesome for us all to be together to celebrate.

Also Fun was that Yai-Yai came into town for a whole week. I can't tell you how nice it was to have my Mommy around and Kellan sure loved his special time with her since its not too often they see each other.

I decided Kellan should be Yoda this year...mostly because it was an easy and cheap costume. (Daddy doesn't know this, he just thinks i'm super cool for chosing a Star Wars character...he doesn't know that I haven't even seen all the Episodes.) Regardless, Kellan hated his costume and wore it for approximately 5 minutes. His favorite moments of Halloween included ripping the Yoda Hat off his head and throwing it on the floor, passing out candy by the double-fisted handful, and hitting grandpa and Daddy with the Yoda stick thingy. At lease he had some fun. Below are a few pictures captured from Kellan's brief moments as Yoda and a few pictures with Yai-Yai:

I see a White Door and I want to Paint it Black

2011-11-08T12:51:00.000-08:00

I'm totally doing this and I know its going to be awesome. I'm going to start with the interior front door and see where that leads me.

Should I go for a softer charcoal?

via Triangle Honeymoon

via A Perfect Gray

Or a nice deep black in Semi-Gloss?

via Cote de Texas

via Little Green Notebook

via Marcus Design

via Triangle Honeymoon

Or rich black with high-gloss? Is my house cool enough for this?

via Nate Berkus

Regardless, I can't wait to do it and share the transformation!!

a la Carre de Citrouilles

2011-10-19T13:59:00.000-07:00

On Sunday we took a happy little trip to the pumpkin patch. Kellan had so much fun. He LOVES pumpkin's...probably because they resemble big orange balls. But I think his most favorite part was the farm animals. We saw "moo's" "baa's" and "oinks". He's never seen animals like this in person and was absolutely thrilled! It's so much fun to see the excitment he experiences in simple things. I love my boy. I also love my iPhone, because it takes pretty good pictures, some of which you can enjoy below:

Baby Steps

2011-10-11T14:58:00.000-07:00

I know I am WAY over due for a post or two! But in the meantime, here's a few videos from last night where our little Kellan made some BIG steps all on his very own. Try to ignore the shrieks of joy from Mom and Dad and the "Blair Witch" filming style! Sorry for that.

Love,
A Proud Mama

"So Much To Say" Part 1

2011-09-11T13:48:00.000-07:00

**WARNING: If you are not an avid Dave Matthews Band fan, you may find this boring. Pity.

In my early twenties, my summer's typically included more than a few trips around the west coast to hear my favorite band, Dave Matthews Band. But as the years passed, trips to the show's became less frequent and since 2006, just about obsolete. I even scaled back on listening to them as it was almost to painful to bare that I was not going to get to see them live, yes, I love them that much, until this past Labor Day. It was really a guilt ridden decision I made to say goodbye to my boys for 4 nights and 4 days while I hit the road with a couple girlfriends to relive my camping concert DMB days, but boy am I glad I did.

4 Hr Roadtrip from Portland to the Gorge

Any true DMB fan will tell you that the Gorge "Experience" is just about as good as it gets. You hear 3 days of ~~good~~ the best music, in an incredible setting along the Columbia River in Washington. It was just as I remembered it, yet it felt so strange to "let go" as my resposibilities these days feel endless. All three of us were in the same boat, and I think we relished the fact that we handnt a thing to do but hang out, read magazines, enjoy bloody mary's, eat awesome camping food (thanks to Michelle), think about what we were going to wear to the show and how close to the stage we were gonna get.

Our Awesome Setup. Seriously, Thanks to Miche, we camped in style!

Camping next to 10,000 people is not necessarily fun, but our neighbors were pretty chill and the grass was a nice perk...Thank You Premier Parking Pass!

For the first time in 20 years, DMB didn't tour as normal. This year they called it a Caravan...4 stops total. A Music Festival that included a few bands that I didnt really care about. Normally it's just DMB, so while the majority of people where there for DMB, there were a few people that came out for the "Woodstock like" experience. This definately had it's pro's and con's. Con's being that the crowd definately was more mellow and seemed to be filled with more jerk-offs than usual. I attribute this to the fact that perhaps they werent TRUE fans or that i'm 5 years older?? Probably a little bit of both in there. Ready for the PRO??? OPEN SEATING!! When we first arrived at the venue we scoped out a location on the grass. If you know me at all, you know that I am a total snob when it comes to being right up front for shows. I was gonna let it go and stretch out and enjoy the scenery, until I noticed something...people walking in and out around the front of the stage. This picture was taken of me when I realized we could go right up front with our General Admission Tickets. Pure Joy!

Friday Sep 2 2011

Gorge Amphitheatre Setlist

Don’t Drink the Water

Squirm

Proudest Monkey

Satellite

Seven

Pantala Naga Pampa

Rapunzel

Sweet *

Out Of My Hands +

Lying In the Hands of God

Shotgun

American Baby Intro

American Baby

Funny The Way It Is

Stay Or Leave

Crush

Shake Me Like a Monkey

Tripping Billies

__________________

A Whiter Shade of Pale *

Time Bomb

Grey Street

Show Notes:

* Dave Solo

+ Dave, Carter, Stefan and Tim

Friday night's show was mellow but awesome. My Favorite by Far: Shotgun. This song is super rare, so rare that I usually forget the name and spend a good amount of time racking my brain or pestering friends to try to remember. This song is not on any recorded albums but i've been obsessed with it since I heard it in Irvine, CA in 2006. Love it. Proudest Monkey brought tears to my eyes and had a whole new meaning to me. All I could think about was my Kellan, my proud little monkey that mimicks me on a daily basis."Monkey See Monkey Do!" In fact, a lot of the songs have a new meaning to me now that I'm a mama and a wife. It was a cool realization. Notiable Mentions of the night: Lying in the hands of God - So pretty, Whiter Shade of Pale - beautiful cover and Grey Street Finale...loved it!

Me and Miche...We took this picture when we realized the lighting was good!
The fact that Im a giant is only exagerated my the fact that
I'm standing on the Upside of a slant. Not Cool.

Good Lighting...Bad Focus

Please visit Parts 2 and 3 for remainder of Labor Day Awesomeness!

Kellan's 1st Birthday

2011-08-30T00:26:00.000-07:00

Am I the worst or what!? My little Kellan turned 1 almost a month and a half ago and I have yet to share the deets of his first and very special birthday party! First of all, let me start by saying I don't think this past year could have been any more crazy. I mean, wow. They tell you having a baby changes things, but holy cow, basically from the second you meet your little one, someone has pressed the fast forward button on your life.

July 14, 2010
My Sweet Little Sugar Lump

From the moment I could feel this little guy growing and dancing in my belly, I knew he was special. But when I met him and held him and smelled him...I knew he was the love of my life. I can't believe its already been over a year since I was waddeling around complaing that he was NEVER going to come and coming home from work only to walk straight to the backyard to stand under the running hose, fully clothed, because nothing could cool off my whale of body. I was a joy, I'm sure.

July 14, 2011
Our Crazy-Happy Little Stink

1 Year later...here we are. I've got a sweet, wild and crazy, happy little boy and I honestly he's more wonderful than I could ever dream! I did so much research and planning for his BIG ONE and in the end, threw up my hands and say, "we're keeping it family and we're keeping it easy." So, exactly 1 year and 1 hr to the day of his birth, we celebrated with family and had a wonderful stress-free mid-week afternoon party!

Unedited pics with really bad lighting to follow:

Daddy made his own party hat.
Can you tell which one was his?

Bummer about the lighting!

Kellan was awesome! He loved the party, he loved his birthday song, cake and all his presents. Our family left happy...in party hats. I couldn't have asked for more...except for better pictures and a cake that wasnt sporting the colors of the Mexican Flag. I guess when you suggest to a baker to pick 3 bold colors for the inside of the cake, you should consider their nationality. Super tasty cake none-the-less!

Proud of this Guy

2011-08-29T22:38:00.000-07:00

Last week my little brother Nicholas started his first week of college, and not just any college, but USC and on an academic scholarship for aerospace engineering to boot! He's one smart cookie and seriously, I couldn't be more proud. You're gonna go places little dude and I hope you love every second of the journey!

I'm taking the opportunity of this post to display a few pictures from Nick's High School Graduation (only 3 months ago). I'm marking it off the list of blog ta-do's!

Ham

Me and My One and Only Meme

The Fam

Smarty Pants

Me in "not so photogenic times" and my baby brother

Proud Papa Hugs are the BEST!

Trying Something New

2011-08-18T16:38:00.000-07:00

The other morning I forced myself to go to the gym and sleepily did the elliptical (with a TV) to get my blood flowing. I intently watched the Wen Hair Care Infomercial and ordered it as soon as I got in the car. I'm so excited to get it that I actually paid for expedited shipping, but I just read consumer reports indicating people experiencing hair loss and other trauma's. Hummm, I'm still going to try it...but with a hint of hesitation.

While Pinning...

2011-08-16T15:35:00.000-07:00

I ran across this adorable idea:

Image via Flicker

So I tested my not-so-steady hand at Photoshop and made this:

It's not perfect, but I think it gets the message across. I'll be using this in our yearly albums that i'm endlessly trying to put together. And by "endlessly" im referring to our dinosour of a desktop computer that does more "thinking" than "doing".

Sweet Little Video

2011-08-13T11:42:00.000-07:00

Last month, my baby boy turned 1 year old!! And while I havent had the opportunity to blog about his fun little party (or pretty much anything in the last month), I thought I would post this sweet little video provided as a fun bonus from our July photo session with the always wonderful Lemaire Photography.

Please excuse me

2011-07-26T14:27:00.000-07:00

While I slip into something more comfortable. Well, while I slip my ironing board into something more comfortable anyway. For MONTHS I’ve been eyeing this sweet little ironing board cover, featured on numerous blogs that I peruse daily. Every time I walk through my laundry room I look at my stained and tattered board and imagine it how cute it would be with this flowery and romantic, so unlike me, cover.
Can’t say why I’m so attracted to it or why I’ve pined over it for a few months. This weekend past I saw that it was no longer listed on the darling little Etsy Store City Chic Country Mouse . But when I emailed the shop owner out of curiosity, she just replied back that she reserved one for me. Ooops, guess that means I have to buy it..right? So, $24 and 2 weeks later, she’ll be mine and my tiny little laundry room, will be a much brighter and happier place. Not sure that this is going to get me ironing more…but ya never know?!

Miss Emree turns One!

2011-06-20T12:58:00.000-07:00

Kellan's helped his first and favorite little friend celebrate her 1st Birthday this past weekend. The party was gorgeous as Emree's Mama never ceases to amaze me, and Kellan had a great time. In fact, he had such a great time that we left the party in one of Emree's shirts. Yup, Kellan was "that guy" that had too much fun and ended up without his clothes on a the party. That's my dude!

Kellan and Emree 1 and 2 Months Old. Just had to include this...they are growing so fast!

Love the Party Hats!!

I think a water play table is on Kellan's Birthday wishlist!

Party Hat Baby!

(Didn't know he was wearing one until I accidentally snapped him. Sorry Booms!)

1 Mama 2 Babies! I Love this Picture.

Perfectly Gorgeous Party Details to Follow:

RTO

2011-06-02T12:52:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow is the day I have been planning and prepping for for months. Reno-Tahoe Odyssey. Im going into this thing 1 team member down and with a fresh head cold. Gotta love it. In the wise words of my good friend Ais....Ready or NOT, here I come.*

*Please note: The lack of exclamation point is intentional.

Overworked or Blogging Slump?

2011-05-24T18:30:00.000-07:00

I'm feeling guilty because i've neglected my blog for a few weeks. Things have been feeling a bit crazy. When you put in 55 hrs in a work week, it leaves very little time to do the things that you need (let alone want) to do. All this time at my desk has me missing my baby, who, by the way, is practically a grown boy. Last week while I was working my butt off, he learned how to wave bye-bye, clap, and say "uh-oh". The fact that he is mearly days away from crawling has be saying "uh-oh" myself. Time to child proof.

Below are a couple pictures from my first Day for Mama's. It was very special and I was totally ~~surprised~~ blown away by the gorgeous necklace that MC had made for me.

I've been running. I've been running a lot. 3 weeks ago I did my first half marathon with running partner-in-crime Kimmon. It was painful. And by painful I mean, I tried my hardest not to puke the entire last 3 miles. In the last mile I ran by someone elses puke and was comforted in the fact that I was not alone. Also painful, was my time. I so wanted to break 2 hours, but came in at 2 hrs 12 mins. Not sure what I expected, as I had spent the month prior to the run recovering from a cold and respitory infection. My goal is to do it again, and kill it. By Kill It I mean, 1 hr 45 mins tops!

Next weekend Kimmon and I will be fearlessly leading a team of 12 through the Reno-Tahoe Odyssey. Better known as the RTO, this 2-day 178 mile race starts in Reno, goes around Lake Tahoe, down into Carson City, Up into Virginia City, Directly in front of my house where I may opt to lay down and die, and then ends where we started in Downtown Reno. For months Kimmon and I have been planning this thing. We've lost and replaced 6 runners, exchanged over 25 checks, and sent countless emails and texts. Let me just say, i've gone grey trying to plan this thing. Can't wait for it to be over! We keep saying we will never captian this again, but we laugh knowing that after the race is done and we are enjoying beers at the After Party, we will already be planning our next year's team. That's how we roll!

Inspiration

2011-05-05T11:27:00.000-07:00

Hello. I know we just met, but can I move in?

Can't remember where I found this. Sorry source.

Easter Sunday Funday

2011-05-03T16:37:00.000-07:00

Better late than never...

Easter has come on gone, so these pictures come a little late. Doesnt mean Kellan's first wasnt as special as the meaning of day itself.

The "Easter Bunny" went all out. Kellan got a super cool "motorcycle" and a pretty little bucket filled with all sorts of goodies including, soccer ball eggs filled with Cheerios, orange colored bubbles (thats a new mom mistake - those went out with Sunday's garbage), plastic boats (moms favorite) and super shiny pinwheel (Kellan's favorite).

Our day included lots of family time, where we colored eggs with Grammee and Grandpapa, Kellan kicked butt at the K family Egg Hunt, and an Basket Hunt with Uncle Otto at Nana's house. It was a beautiful day as Easter Sunday always is.

Easter Sunday in Picture Below:

Our Vibrant Eggs

So Excited to see his basket

Loves it! Can only figure out how to make it go backwards

Finding Eggs with Daddy's Help

The Bunny Hid the Basket in Nana's Car

Mommy burned the carrot cupcakes. Nothing a little frosting won't hide.

The People Have Spoken

2011-04-20T16:43:00.000-07:00

And they said that My Baby Daddy is the Best!

Don't believe me?

See for yourself.

Congrats Baby, you make me proud to be Mrs. Callahan.

Paid-in-Full

2011-04-19T11:54:00.000-07:00

You are one expensive little dude and you're all mine! xoxo

My Boys

2011-04-06T12:25:00.000-07:00

Are the cutest. So that makes me...just about the luckiest girl around. Also, soccer season started up again. Yay! Kellan absolutely loved watching the game, he was so excited that he kicked his feet like crazy the whole time and he giggled hysterically when MC tried to teach him to kick the ball after the game. Adorable. I, on the other hand, enjoyed sunning my white-as-paper legs in the crisp morning sun and watching my handsome man run around the field.

Phew

2011-03-30T15:04:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I got a phew. His name is Miles Charles and apparantly he's as sweet as sugar. Judging from these pics, I believe it.

Love and Congratulatons go out to my little Sister Caitlin and Brother-in Law Jeff on the birth of their first child, an 8 pound 4.6 oz ball of baby loving. I know first hand, you are both in for the most wonderful ride of your life. I absolutely cannot wait to meet him, and I know my little rascal Kellan can't wait to show his baby cousin the ropes, like how to blow out your diaper like its nobody's business. That's my dude.

Le Ballon Rouge

2011-03-28T15:06:00.000-07:00

So many wonderful things to blog about...our trip to Pheonix, Momma's new Car, our painted kitchen, Momma's running, new baby Copeland on the way as I write this, alas, I havent the time, so I thought I would share some photo's of Kellan's first experience with a balloon. He LOVED it. He's the sweetest little thing. It's so wonderful to see joy and excitement for the simplest things through his eyes.

Conversations with Kellan

2011-03-06T12:52:00.000-08:00

My little man can totally talk, well, Mostly in grunts and squeaks, but I think its fantastic. Especially when he tries to get Maceo's attention. Maceos is his favorite thing in the world, next to his stuffed Wells Fargo Pony. His newest sound is a "th" and "kuh" its his version of the word cat. Smart little happy dude. He is, without a doubt, the light of my life.

Video in 2 Parts due to large size.

February In Pics

2011-03-06T11:33:00.000-08:00

A Fun Afternoon at Incline Beach:

Image Description: Family Portrait Attempt

Status: Failure

Image Description: Family Portrait Attempt 2

Status: Not so much

Image Description: Happy Baby

Status: Success

Image Description: Kellan's first time in the sand

Status: Interesting

Image Description: Kellan's first time in the sand 2

Status: Sandy Fingers

Image Description: Moms first attempt at Panoramic, Incline Beach

Status: (Shoulder Shrug)

Image Description: One Silly Dude

Status: Success

Image Description: Our First Valentines Day/ Kellan's 7 Month/ Family Portrait Attempt 3

Status: Success/ Big Boy/ Nope

Image Description: Happiest Baby On the Block with rediculously cute ears

Status: Success

Image Description: Bouncy Baby

Status: Crazy Happy Dude

Inspiration

2011-03-02T23:08:00.000-08:00

I cannot stress enough, how much I love this powder bath.

It's rediculously fabulous.

Snow Day

2011-02-19T22:34:00.001-08:00

While most of Northern Nevada enjoyed a snow day last Friday, I drove to work in this. Pretty awesome.
I passed more than a few vehicles spinning their wheels. It's moments like this I love old Blue Thunder.

Love,
Talley

Hunk of Junk

2011-02-16T09:43:00.000-08:00

It's sleeting, It's snowing...and on the way to work...my windshield wipers stopped working.

I pulled over 3 times to clear my view on the way to work this morning. It was awesome. As one co-worker mildly put it the other day when my pants ripped..."it's time, it's time."

Hot Mess

2011-02-14T13:29:00.000-08:00

Lately, I've been a hot mess. Last Friday my 6 year old Theory Pants split while at work, revealing more butt cheek and "dated" victoria secret thong than I would ever like to share to an office full of higher ups. You can thank me later for not posting a picture. My supervisor took pity on me and let me go buy some new pants, good news is I wasnt forced to wear a large coat the rest of the day.

Yesterday, the top to a gallon of water popped off in the back of my car. As I went to clear bags out of my backseat, I was not too pleased to see Lake Blue Thunder sloshing around behind the drivers seat. Not cool.

This morning I forgot that I needed to provide Kellan with Valentine's Day cards for all his friends at school, so after I dropped him off, I ran to the grocery store. When I was there I remembered we desperately needed dishwasher detergent. I threw some in the carry basket and ran over to the Valentines day cards. As I go to step forward I slipped on something. Luckily I caught myself. Wondering what it was I slipped on, I look down and notice my left shoe and pant leg and purse are soaked with nearly half the contents of the now cracked detergent bottle. Its 9:30 AM and Im ready crawl back into bed and start the day over. I walk back to the office defeated with pants and a sticky leather shoe that are already turning white from the bleach in the detergent. Luckily the 60 mile an hour winds blowing through Reno, dried my tears (and are the main cause for the rats nest that is now in my hair).

Hot Mess Dude. Hot Mess.

To Sell or Not To Sell

2011-02-01T23:02:00.000-08:00

That is the question I have been pondering for almost a year and half. The realistic side say yes! There are so many things I could do with the money...like new hardwood floors, hire a painter, or use it as a down payment for a new car. But the sentimental side of me says no way...she's far too beautiful, she's timeless, and she's mine.

Seriously, i've had a love affair with this dress for almost 2 years. The moment I laid eyes on her, I had to have her. It's hard to let go. I would wear her everyday if I could. Also, If a photographer could run around photographing me in it, that would be just fine too. Let's face it...she was the perfect touch, too a perfect day. Sigh.

Sites up for consideration:

http://www.preownedweddingdresses.com/
http://www.recycledbride.com

http://www.oncewed.com/

Ps. How has it been a year and a half since our wedding day? Life moves at an alarming rate these days.

January

2011-01-23T17:52:00.000-08:00

The month is not quite over, but I thought I would share a few highlights from the start of 2011, as I know the next time I blink, February will be here (and probably almost gone). Things at work are finally picking up and it feels as though i've been hit by a freight train. Everyone kept telling me to enjoy the quite, it will change, and boy did it ever. All good things though. The weeks fly by pretty fast, unfortunately, so do the weekends. My little Kellan turned 6 months old on the 14th, he's sitting up, has 2 teeth and eats his veggies like a champ. He's also sleeping through the night now, almost a full 11 hours to be exact and this thing they call sleep...is pretty, pretty amazing.

Following are a few things we loved about January.

Walks in a winter wonderland:

Torturing Maceos:

Our first two teeth:

The Duck Park with Daddy:

Hanging with our buddy Aiden:

First time on the big boy swing at the park:

Ridiculously warm weather for Reno in January:

Saying goodbye to Mr. White:

And saying Hello to Mr. Steel:

Also worth noting: Grandpapa turned 60 and Cousin Hunter turned 10. Seriously, this means I'm getting old, real old.

Say Hello to my Little Friend

2011-01-19T09:57:00.000-08:00

This little beauty is moving into my kitchen TODAY and I could not be more excited. Let me paint you a picture: I load the dishwasher. I run the dishwasher. I open the dishwasher after a finished cycle and find...Clean Dishes! (insert applause)

Yes indeed. It's going to be a dream - come - true.

Resolutions...Revisited

2011-01-06T16:36:00.000-08:00

Last year I blogged about all the things I thought would make be a better person in 2010. Seen Here. Lets revisit those and discuss how I did and where things when wrong, shall we?

1. Take better care of myself:

I did this, sort of. And then my pregnant self formed an unhealthy relationship with double decker tacos from Taco Bell. 30 lbs later I had a healthy and beautiful baby boy. 5 and a half months after that, I still have 10 lbs to loose. I think I start a new diet everyday. To take better care of myself I would need about 5 more hours in the day so I could make it to the gym, the grocery store, clean my house, do laundry...should I go on? People always told me babies take up all your time. I didnt believe them...until now. Did I brush my teeth today?

2. Take better care of my husband:

See number 1.

3. Be more patient and kind:

See number 1.

4. Keep a budget:

Diapers, formula, playthings...see number 1. Thank God for the new job I started in November. We are surely blessed by that one.

5. Slow Down and enjoy life:

Slow down?...See number 1. But loving every minute of it.

6. Be Grateful and Thankful:

Thank you for everything in my life God. See number 1.

This year, no resolutions, i'm gonna just keep on keeping on. Seems to be working, now lets talk about those 10 lbs.

Peace and Love in the New Year!
Tallie

Better Late than Never

2011-01-06T16:10:00.000-08:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Kellans 1st Christmas

2010-12-27T23:21:00.000-08:00

Mr. Kellan's 1st Christmas included the following:

Daddy & Nana competing for best dressed

All-You-Can Eat wrapping & tissue paper buffet

The cutest picture Mama has ever seen

A new lawn mower from Grandpa

Wide-Eyed at Bedtime

Family Photos

Momma and her boys

We had a wonderful Christmas this year. Kellan favorites were the lights on the Christmas Trees and stuffing his mouth full of tissue and wrapping paper. He's learning to love the big bouncey saucer that took mommy a few hours to build on Christmas eve. We spent the holiday visiting all the family in town, it was pretty hectic going from one place to another. Kellan was a trooper through it all, and it felt really great to share our time with everyone. Family is so important, and we are so blessed to be surrounded by so much LOVE.

Wishing you all a wonderful holiday season and a Happy New Year!

The Bestest Christmas Present Ever

2010-12-27T22:58:00.000-08:00

On Wednesday morning, Kellan's daycare teacher brought a little wrapped gift to my desk. The tag read "To Mommy & Daddy, Love Kellan." I absolutely could not wait to open it. But, as it was made out to Mommy and Daddy, I knew I had to save it for Christmas (or at least until I got home). I told my co-worker to keep a close eye on me, as my sense of waiting was diminising by the minute. She said she would, but not 1 hour later when she got up for more coffee, I tore into the present and what I saw brought tears to my eyes...

Behold, the Bestest Christmas Present Ever...

I of course wrapped it back up so I could open it again later that night with Daddy. My co-worker knew immediately what I had done when she saw the guilty smirk on my face and the tears in my eyes. I can't express enought how much I love my boy. I plan on saving this card for the rest of my life, because its just the greatest thing ever!

Love,

Mommy

Things that Happened After this Photo was Taken

2010-12-19T20:42:00.000-08:00

Date: December 11, 2010

Location: Cin Cin Bar

1. Won a bottle of Grey Goose in an honest game of White Elephant

2. Laughed my ass off with old co-workers and good friends

3. Took more than a few shots with my old boss

4. Told the entire bar I was wearing Spanx

5. Danced and sang The Bear Necessities with partner-in-crime pictured above

6. Took a guitar lesson on how to play DMB and Failed

7. Talked my husband into stopping for tacos on the way home

8. Passed out on son's bedroom floor

9. Ate old-no-longer-crunchy taco first thing after waking up

10. Threw-up

11. Rallied for another Christmas Party

12. Spent the next week recovering

Tis the Season...

Christmas is for the Birds and other tree goodness

2010-12-12T22:23:00.000-08:00

I knew it was love when I gave up the fight to have a color themed Christmas tree. MC is such a Christmas fanatic, that it was just one less struggle I had to deal with. So for the last four years, I have had a tree that boasts every colored ornament out there along with tinsel. For laughs, our first Christmas together we purchased a bird with wild blue feathers that we could attach to the tree. Every year since we have picked out a bird tree ornament. Wonder what we will end up with this year? (See birds of Christmas's Past below)

The original Blue Beast

Bird on Branch

Flatty Sparkles, the cheaper choice

Even though I still daydream about one with pear green, gold and mercury glass ornaments, I've grown to love the colorful mess that is our Christmas tree. Every year when we put up the last ornament and stand back for a look we say..."well this has to be our most beautiful tree yet!" Also, with all those bright colors and lights, Kellan cannot get enough of it!

Got out of tinsel again this year. I feel accomplished somehow. Oh, and please don't get me started on our exterior Christmas lights, thats a whole seperate beautiful disaster.

Speaking of Mr. Kellan...

He Hates Tummy Time :O)

Happy Holidays,

Nat

I'm Awesome

2010-12-07T11:12:00.000-08:00

It's only Tuesday and I can already say that the Low point of my week was surprisingly NOT stuffing 2,180 holiday cards into envelopes, but was actually yesterday when I was asked to catch a plastic grocery bag flying "beautifully" in front of the office building. I managed this with as much grace as possible in heels and my nicest office attire on a grassy knoll in high wind. Luckily the window of the CFO stopped the bag, unluckily, I'm sure I looked like an absolute A-S-S as her office was full of the top brass of a large banking organization which will remain nameless.

Reasons they pay me the big bucks. I'm awesome.

Holiday Tidings

2010-12-04T15:30:00.000-08:00

Got 'em!

I'm pretty stoked because our dear friends at Furious Creative have, as usual, blown me away with their awesomeness. See our Holiday Cards below and ask yourself..."Which one will I get?"

Turkey Day 2010

2010-12-04T01:16:00.000-08:00

This year I have so much to be thankful for...

My Beautiful Son
My Loving Husband
My Strong Stepmother
My Huge Supportive Family
My Warm Home
My Dancing Cat
My New Job

November in pictures below:

Kellan holds his bottle!

Kellan's first cereal!

Baby and Grandpapa

Cousin Hunti visits!

Baby Friends

Handsome Daddy

Lamby Poo

Le chat qui danse

Turkey Family

Mama & Beebee

Mr. Wooster High...Almost

2010-12-04T00:54:00.000-08:00

My "little" brother Nick had been working for weeks on a big performance, in which the winner would be crowned "Mr. Wooster High School" and would win a college scholorship. I'm so proud of him for going through with it inspite of everything the family has been having to deal with. A few weeks ago most of the family got together to root him on in his quest. This was a big deal as it was Annalee's first outing since the accident. She was such a trooper because the performance was on the long side as 15 boys danced and sang through the night. She really is still not used to sitting quite yet and its still pretty painful. But watching her watch him brought tears to my eyes. You could see it meant the world to her to see Nick up on stage. It was a fun night for the family to get out as a group and for a minute, things seemed normal again. Nick made it all the way to the end without being cut and it was really exciting. Even though he finished in 3rd place, he still gets number 1 in my book. He's quite the little dancer and totally hammed it up on stage and with the judges...something I never would have done at that age. Good for you dude! Keep being cool!

Below are a few of Nicks Senior Pics. He's such a grown up handsome little man, I can't believe he's off to college next year! Wasnt I just in college??

Love you Terd.

Photo Session

2010-11-26T23:58:00.000-08:00

We got our first pictures as a family taken in early November with talented Mr. and Mrs. Lemaire. It was a perfect fall day, falling leaves, warm sun, crisp air. I love fall. I made the mistake of thinking a bulky coat would be slimming and that a charcoal grey shirt on the "king of spitup" would be a good idea, but for the most part, i'm happy with how they turned out. Below are a couple keepers...but my favorites are in with our super duper talented friends at Furious Creative to be turned in what will surely be awesome holiday cards.

My son has his daddy's brilliant blue eyes...Lucky Little Duck. Gah, I can't get enough of that guy. Such a dollface.

Dear Time

2010-11-08T22:26:00.000-08:00

Where have you gone?

I feel a little bogged down lately. Between the events surrounding the end of October, I feel stretched to the max. The new job is good. Its going to be great one day, but right now, i'm the newbie and i'm struggling to fit in and do the job right. Mister Kellan is a little pistol. When i'm sitting at my desk I can hear him screaming in the daycare down the hall. He even screamed in the big bosses face today! Ugh, Its official...I have THAT kid. The screamer, the handful. The daycare director told me today that we need to figure it out because he is requiring too much time of the teachers. I feel terrible...all I could think to say was, "I can bring you some earplugs?" She didnt laugh. Poor little guy just isnt used to all the hustle and bustle of a busy daycare and its making it really tough for me to focus on my job on the days he's there but i'm grateful that he is...it's a two way street I suppose.

Halloween was quiet for us this year. I didnt get to show Kellan off too much but I spent a lot of time thinking about where we where this time last year. We had just moved in (3 days prior) and I found out I was pregnant on Halloween morning. Now we've been here a year and made it home as much as possible and we've got a healthy mostly-happy sweet baby boy. How blessed are we?

For some October Highlights...see below!

Our October included:
Visit with Yai-Yai and Titi Hannah

Baby Bats!

Spooky!

Carved Pumpkins!

Pumpkins growing in our garden!

First trip to the Pumpkin Patch and Gaints win the World Series!

Grammee feeling well enough to hold Baby Bear!

Glow Worms!

Love,

It's Late

2010-10-28T00:33:00.000-07:00

Later than i've been up in quite awhile. I'm exhausted, but rest does not seem to want to find my mind. Since Friday's accident i've gone through a roller coaster of emotion...I feel like i'm at a low again. Tomorrow is her birthday. I will bring her a cupcake with a candle and a huge smile. She's so tough, i'm so amazed at her strength, emotionally and physically. Yet here I am, crying like a baby and life's drastic turn of events.

Today I brought Kellan in for a visit. She was so happy to see him! Thankfully he was a good boy and didn't show the entire hospital floor what a little stink bug he can be. He gave her great big smiles and it was good.

A local adventure sports enthusiast in the Reno/Tahoe area suffered a terrible similar injury about 6 months ago. Tonight while I was feeling the deep dark blues, I found hope in his sponsorship video. You can check it out here. I look forward to seeing the progress she will make in the months ahead.

Good Night.

Love You.

2010-10-24T08:56:00.000-07:00

Thinking about you. Praying for you.

Change

2010-10-22T10:42:00.000-07:00

Tis the season for change. First comes baby, then comes new job? Yikes, seems like I have the order screwed up a bit. But the offer and experience is too good to pass up, so my 4 years in the thankless world of advertising comes to an end next Tuesday. I'm thankful for the experience...it was there that I met my husband, made friendships that will last a lifetime, and gained the knowlegde and work ethic that i needed to land me my sweet new gig. Life will change for the better very soon. I feel like i'm moving up in the world. How blessed am I?

Love

2010-10-05T22:06:00.000-07:00

Family self-portrait taken sometime in early August. LOVE how K's little hands are blurry (because he does not stop fluttering about). LOVE K's little smile (very rare at the time). LOVE how MC is holding K's arm still...in his mouth. Don't LOVE how my bra is pretty much hanging out of my shirt. LOVE this picture none-the-less.

September

2010-09-30T23:20:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I could post. September, where did you go? This month flew by and tomorrow is October...my favorite month! We've had a nice long Indian Summer here in Reno. Some days there are hints of Fall in the air, other days (like most this week) it's still hot as can be.

Anyhoo, this month MC and I got out of town for a few days. Our good friends were married down in Vegas. (Congrats to Mr. and Mrs. C. D.!!) It was a hard decision to leave little boomers at home, but it was nice to get away just the two of us. I'm embarrased to say that both nights we were away I was in bed by 10pm. I just could not wait to get up to that big king sized bed and sleep the whole night through (something I hadnt experienced in 9 weeks). It was lovely. I can't tell you how excited I was to get home though. A weekend of good fun and good sleep left me refreshed and even more appreciative of all the good I have in my life. Plus, Kellan had a great time with Titi Miche, who was awesome at sending me hourly picture text updates.

MC and I at the the Wedding

This month Kellan has grown like crazy. Since birth he has gained 4 lbs and grown 4 inches! Big Boy!! His adorable (yet prickly) personality is starting to shine through. We live for the little smiles and sounds he has started to share daily. He's just a rolly polly little bundle that I can't help but smother in kisses! I've been really lucky to be able to spend the last month working from home two days a week. Though it has had its trying moments, i've forced myself to just slow down and appreciate the fact that I get to see his face all day long. Starting Monday I am back in the office 4 days a week. I will still get to do Wednesdays at home, so I suppose I shouldnt be too blue.

As for me, I am finally starting to feel like whatever cloud has been hovering over me has lifted. Though my sciatica is still being a literal pain-in-the-ass, the fact that I will be at work 4 days a week will make it so much easier for me to get back in the gym. I love working out at lunch. I have struggled lately because work has been allowing me to work through lunch so I could head home early. I have great aspirations of making it to the gym, but when the shift bell rings...my car can't help but drive strait home to K. Then we get home, and he's hungry, and i'm hungry and tired and have to cook dinner and do laundry and wash bottles. Before I know it, it's 9:15, I havent worked out and there is no energy to be found. Time for bed. So yeah, I think this new schedule will be good. See ya later spare tire!

Good Stuff Posted below:

Le Tigre Blanche...raaaaaar

Who's my big man??

Daddy doesnt understand that not everyone wants to be a 49er fan.

Ceiling fans are sooo silly!

Handsome Daddy and Sleepy Baby

Really bad pic of mommy posted because of the chubby goodness in her arms.

xoxo

Mom Jeans

2010-09-07T08:55:00.000-07:00

It should come as no surprize that getting dressed everyday is difficult for the "new mother". No longer can you play the maternity fashion card, nor can you boast your pre-pregnancy size, so unless you have the money to buy what you hope will be a temporary sized pair of jeans (which I don't), you're back to the early pregancy dressing antics which include using a rubber band to button your jeans. Seen Here. Regardless, yesterday I was able to slip on and button a pair of my pre-pregnancy jeans. The result resembled a cupcake flowing over the top of the tin while the batter is still soft and gooey and hasn't yet had a chance to firm up. If you're not a baker, then let me just say the result was less than flattering. I pulled the rubberband out of my hair, Bob's your uncle, and away we go to my cousin's College Bound Going Away Party.

The house is full of "kids". But it occurs to me, that they are not really kids anymore. Off to college, Seniors in high school, drivers, boyfriends, girlfriends...my cousins and siblings are growing up. 31 years old seems ancient to this group who is entering the most exiting times of their life. At what point did I fall into the old person category? So depressing...but should it really come as a surprize to me as I sit and try not to judge a group of 17 year old girls who's shorts resemble a pair of underwear that I own? I cuddle my new baby tight...I'm glad i'm not 17 again...right? I've still got it...right?

My stylish and handsome 17 year old brother strolls over..."Hey Nats, looks like you're wearing Mom Jeans!" Sigh, I guess that answers my question. No matter, by this point it's 8:15pm, my bedtime is coming up quick, time to head home. I grab a chocolate chunk cookie for the road...i'll start my diet, again, tomorrow.

The New Routine

2010-08-30T16:07:00.000-07:00

Officially into my second week of work and surprisingly things are going well. Waking up at 6:15 am isnt as painful as I thought it would be, probably because my body has adjusted to getting no sleep at all. I actually look forward to the days I make it into work at 730. The day flies by and at 3:30 i'm in my car headed home to my lovely squishy. Working from home on Mondays and Wednesdays is pretty great. I treasure every moment I spend with K. There are times, however, when he is distracting...like when he's sitting behind me in the swing...looking cute as a button. But really, WHO could work with a face like that staring at them!?

As for me, I'm just starting to feel like my old self again (until I get a glimpse of myself as I run into the shower). My doctor told me there is no reason I can't start working out again, so I suppose i've run out of excuses. I've tried "running" twice now and believe me, I use the term "running" lightly. Have you ever walked behind an old woman, dragging her shoes across the floor as she walks? Well if you have, then you'll know just what picture should come to mind when picturing me running. It's amazing what 9 months of pregnancy, a bad back, 1 C-Section, and a 7- LB bundle can do to rob you of any athletisism you may have once had.. Literally, every bone from the hip down ached as I try to move my feet in some sort of running-like motion. It's going to be a long road to get back to where I once was.

Sugar High

2010-08-25T13:50:00.000-07:00

Dear Sister,

Do you remember when we used to see how many Skittles we could eat at once by pouring a 1-lb bag into our mouths? That was awesome. I'm reliving those moments now. Ahh, the things you will try whilst sleep deprived.

Good thing i'm seeing the dentist tomorrow.

Tats

Back to Work

2010-08-18T12:56:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow my Maternity Leave is official over and I couldn't be more blue. I'm trying to be positive about it, but i'm struggling as the idea of spending 8 hours a day away from this guy just breaks my heart. I can't believe Kellan is 5 weeks old today. Why does time fly so fast when you don't want it to, and go so slow when you wish it would hurry along? Funny the way it is...

Nursery

2010-08-16T12:42:00.000-07:00

From the moment we bought our house, we knew what room would be the nursery. It had been the babies room for the previous owners, what we didnt know was that just three days after moving into the house, we would find out I was pregnant. This somewhat shortend the deadline to turn the room from a blue-floral wallpaper mess, into what I like to call...a sweet simple neutral nursery. Of course my being pregnant, created a shortage of help for MC, but with a little help from Grandpa Dennis, and lots of advise from my design guru (B.F.), we made it happen.

Ironically, aside from the upstairs bathroom, it's the only room in the house that has been re-done to our liking. Too bad we dont even use it. At least when Kellan is ready to make the move upstairs, his room will be ready for him!

Before:

After:

Love,
Mommy

Kellan's Birth

2010-07-31T17:01:00.000-07:00

2 Days prior to my scheduled induction, I thought I felt a lame-o girly infection coming on. As this can be dangerous for the baby, and as I was not 100%, I decided a C-Section would be the safest route for the delivery of our son. On July 14th, MC and I drove over to Renown and anxiously got ready for the C-Section. I'm a pretty tough girl, but for some reason, the thought of being filletted on the operating table had me absolutely terrified. After my nurse graciously busted two veins in my left arm trying to give me an IV, "hope she's not giving me my spinal tap", I thought. The birthing experience was nothing like I had planned in my mind the past 10 months. I had dreamed of a long, hard labor, medication free, but all I had expected was not so. As I walked into the operating room, I could hear women down the hall...laboring...I was jealous.

The OR was not as I had expected (or should I say not as you see on TV shows like ER and Greys), it was more like what you might see in One Flew Over the Koo Koo's Nest or Haunted Hospitals. It was scary, cold, white. The floor was sticky with iodine from previous surgeries, the table was thin with two extensions for my arms. I looked the nurse in the eyes and said, "i'm terrified." I've had surgery once before, for the "birth" of my "twins" but before I was wheeled into the OR, I was on a happy drip of morphine...the spinal numbing did not have those lovely, smiley effects. In fact, the spinal numbing made me puke for the majority of the surgery. No bueno. Nothing like being completely cut open and exposed and puking your guts out. It was scary. My lovely MC was there to hold the barf bag for me...I think I was sqeezing his hand so tightly I could have broke it.

When the doctor finally pushed our baby out (I had no idea that they literally push on your belly to get the baby out) she reveiled that the cord was wrapped around his neck 3 times and once around his ankle. This comforted me knowing that even if I had labored as I had wanted, we still would have ended up on the operating table. I had made the right decision, it was fate, I am certain. I watched my beautiful husband as he watched our baby coming into the world. Niagra Falls.

The first thing the doctor mentioned was how cute his face was, then she held him over the sheet so I could take a peek, it was my little Kellan, all gooey and pink and crying like a kitten. I don't think I have ever seen a more beautiful sight. I wish I could relive that moment over and over again. MC got to go over and watch the nurses work on him, while I laid on the table literally hating every minute of it. MC brought Kellan over for just a second, and then the two of them where swept off to the nursery while I was stapled back together and wheeled into recovery for an hour, dying to see my baby. After a rediculously long hour, they brought me my burrito baby bundle. I'm pretty sure I spent the next week of my life staring at him and crying. Everyone tells you it's LOVE at first sight...but until you live it, you have no idea.

Kellan's story in pictures below.

Love,

Mommy

Look What I Made

2010-07-24T13:19:00.000-07:00

Kellan Herz Callahan

Born July 14th 2010; 5:02 PM

7 pounds 9 ounces

21 inches

I havent been able to get to a computer until now. Just so you know I am working on the post to share the story of his birth. Stay tuned. In the meantime, we've been home for a week and loving every minute of our new little bundle. He is the most beautiful thing I have ever laid my eyes on. I may be bias, but see for yourself.

Love,

10 Months Of Belly Loving

2010-07-13T15:23:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow my little boy will no longer live in my belly. Due to some complications, he will come via c-section at 4:30pm. I'm scared and a bit dissapointed, this could not be further from the natural birth I had been hoping for since day one. What a long, loving, difficult journey it has been. I know I will forget all the hardships once I see that sweet, sweet face. I can't wait to hold my baby boy, also I can't wait for a waistline that is smaller than 39".

Wish Me Luck!

7 Weeks

12 Weeks

17 Weeks

20 Weeks

25 Weeks

29 Weeks

34 Weeks

38 Weeks

42 Weeks

Maternity Shoot Update

2010-06-21T15:28:00.000-07:00

A few weeks ago MC and I had a mini-maternity session. We got our pictures back today and I've had fun going through them all! Below are some of my favorites (in addition to the ones featured in my sneak peeks!) from the two very talented ladies! They did a great job hiding the fact that we were in the midst of a major wind storm! PS. I think my Baby Daddy is smokin hot.

**Photo credits: Melissa Vossler Photography and Eden Rose Photography

Belly Update

2010-06-18T13:35:00.000-07:00

Check out my H-U-G-E-N-E-S-S at the Koo Koo's Nest!

Why I'm Struggling

2010-06-15T09:34:00.000-07:00

When Baby Bean is born, I will be using 2 years worth of saved up vacation and sick leave as my maternity leave. All of this will total 6 weeks. Our inital plan was to have me work from home part-time for the next 6 weeks so I could be home and around the Babe for a full 3 months. Last week MC and I decided that there was no way we could afford to pull off the latter part of the plan. Since we decided this, I have been in a really trying place mentally. I absolutely cannot deal with the idea of leaving my 6-week old with anyone...even the most capable of hands. He's my baby, he's my little buddy. We've been a unit for almost 10 months now. He kickes me, makes me puke, pee my pants, gives my heartburn, we listen to tunes together, make food choices together, we do everything together. How can I feel OK not having him around? I feel as though I am going to miss so much. The little smiles when he wakes up from his nap, when he first rolls over, when he first sits up, when he starts to scoot about...the list goes on. I'm in tears just thinking about it.

I feel so discouraged. I know there are worse things out there. I know some people deal with tougher situations. MC tells me to look at the brightside of things, still, I cannot find any peace in the thought of leaving him for 40 hours a week.

I'm heartbroken. Any Momma's out there have advice for this super-sad first timer?

Our Anniversary

2010-06-14T14:28:00.000-07:00

Happy Anniversary to my love. One year ago yesterday I walked down the aisle to you and promised to love you forever. Didn't know it was possible to love you more, but I do. Thank you for believing in "Us" as much as I do.

I love you my Sweet Bean. Let's go back to Maui!

xoxo

Maternity Shoot

2010-06-07T15:09:00.000-07:00

Last Friday MC and I were lucky to have a Mini-Session with Melissa Vossler and Eden Thome, two very talented photographers and sweet gals in the Reno-Tahoe area. The session was a quick 20 minutes and I'm glad because I don't have the wall space necessary to display all of their awesomeness.

Sneak Peeks Below!

(Photo Courtesy of Eden Rose Photograpghy)

(Photo Courtesy of Melissa Vossler Photography)

Don't Ask

2010-06-03T10:18:00.000-07:00

Dear Motorcycle Cop,

Good Job "clocking" me at 2 mph through the stop sign in the Babies-R-Us parking lot. You are a real hero! I'm sure the City of Reno will have better use for the $175 than anything I could have purchased for my unborn child, say that carseat we still need for example.

Sincerely,

Mrs. Callahan

It's the Little Things

2010-05-28T11:39:00.000-07:00

With about 5 weeks left in my pregnancy, it would be an understatement to say that swimsuit shopping is not something I have been looking forward to. But with the forecast calling for decent weather this Memorial Day weekend, and summertime in the very near future, shopping had to be done. I'm thrilled to say that I actually found a couple options that made me feel "as cute as possible" and I didn't have to break the bank for it.

For a mere $4.98 I got this blue halter top in a size i've never had to purchase before.

For $8.95 I got this little tankini. I've never been a fan of the tankini, but i must admit I like it for several reasons, one being it hides my baby back fat and two I like the way it shows off my belly. Plus, after Bean arrives, I figure this little number will hide some of that post-baby awesomeness that your belly goes through. Hopefully, the polka-dots create enough confusion and disorientation to the eyes, moving them in every direction but my mid-section. Yay! Not to mention the top provides easy access to my ummm "baby bottles".

Both of the above mentioned will pair well with the basic black bottoms I purchased for $7.49 in a size that seems to limit the amount of "muffin-top" action that happens with most bottom dwelling articles of clothing I put on lately.

Am I ready to hit the beach or what? Mentally no, but I could definately put in a few sunny hours on the private dock and that is a beautiful thing.

Wishing you all a happy and safe Memorial Day!

Belly Update

2010-05-25T09:31:00.000-07:00

Finally got around to taking a new belly picture. You can check out my 34 weeks and 5 days pregnant gut at Koo Koo's Nest.

xoxo!

Baby Shower Weekend

2010-05-13T12:40:00.000-07:00

A small collage of my recent Baby Shower Weekend in which all my sisters and wonderful Momma drove up from So Cal and flew in from the Mid West to throw Baby Bean a lovely shower! It was so awesome to have our home filled with family. There was no shortage of laughter and the typical mayhem that ensues when One Momma, Five Sisters and one Grand Daughter are under the same roof! MC spent most of the weekend golfing, (can't blame him) while Mewker Mew hung around like one of the ladies!

Special thanks to everyone who made it out to the shower. We got some wonderful gifts all which will be put to good use once Bean drop arrives!

Pregnancy Dreams

2010-05-05T13:05:00.000-07:00

Pregnancy dreams are strange and last night's was no exception.

Last night I dreamed that Baby Bean was born a pig. And by pig i'm not referring to a little chubby bundle, i'm referring to a pink oinker, with a snout and hooves. (Think Charlotte Web's beloved Wilbur.) It was gross, but I felt that as it's mother I was responsible for taking care of it and trying to love it. I even tried to breastfeed it and have a distinct image of its milky little snout too close for comfort if you catch my drift.

I woke up not a big fan of this guy...

Koala vs. Koala

2010-05-03T15:23:00.000-07:00

Baby Bean needs storage in a bad way, this afternoon I thought I would try to update my registry with more Koala Baby Closet Organizer products. When I googled images of the product, this is what turned up.

A dirty bathing Koala bear.

Humm, this wont exactly help Baby's storage problems, but would sure be the highlight of my day. Just need to figure out how to add this nasty little guy to my registry. At this point...i'd take this or the storage system happily.

Today

2010-04-29T11:29:00.000-07:00

I must have gotten up on the wrong side of the bed because my day is off to a wretched start. My morning sickness is working me today, I puked all over myself on the way to work. Luckily I was able to change into my gym clothes. I walked into work pathetic and smelly with a bag of barf. I've been up since 2AM tossing and turning, freaking out about things that are not in my control...i'm exhausted and I don't think I can make it through this day. Might have to call in a personal day. Sigh...

Best Ultrasound Photo's Ever

2010-04-26T10:54:00.000-07:00

With Caitlin leaving for Japan on Baby Beans due date, I persuaded my doctor to let us have our 30 week ultrasound last Thursday so she could come. I prayed that he would cooperate and show his sweet little face unlike his preformance 10 weeks ago. We got so very lucky! The ultra sound technician was in Heaven...she took about 30 pictures of his perfect little face, and asked if she could keep some for her wall. We watched him for about 5 minutes. He was just hanging out with his eyes open, yawning, making little faces. He looks so much like MC I can't even handle it! God I am so in love with this little boy already, so pardon the overload of pictures that are to follow.

That's actually one of his little feet next to his face, he's very limber, unlike me :O)

The Technician's machine ran out of colored paper on account of all the photos she was snapping, so the last few are in black and white.

How can I not be in love with that face?!

Upstairs Bath Remodel

2010-04-19T12:49:00.000-07:00

One bathroom down, a whole house to go!

We finally just about finished our upstairs bathroom min-remodel, and just in time for 5 house guests! I have to say that i'm really happy with the way it turned out. MC is my hero for pulling it off! Between my back and the growing bean, I had to sit out on a lot of the fun.

Had I remembered to take better before shot, you would see a space that had been painted 5 different colors by 2 teenagers and then topped off with a lazy coat of white prior to our purchase of the home, yellow standard oak cabinets, a large flat vanity mirror and the traditional hideous row of vanity lights.

We worked on a tight budget and didn't change as much as we would have liked. Our inital plan was to just give everything a fresh coat of paint, but I really lucked out that MC broke the giant mirror over the vanity so we were able to spruce up the space with 2 separate mirrors and individual vanity lights. I think this made the biggest difference! In trying to keep with the theme of the house, we chose a soft grey brown for the walls, cream with aged nickel pulls for the cabinets, and white accents for the rest. It sort of fell into a bright beachy theme but it seems to work well for the the space. And its gender neutral so it will work as our son's bathroom as well as the main guest bathroom.

This is my only before pic. At this point MC had already painted the walls, doors and ceiling, and we had already primered the cabinets. The mirror pictured was not used.

And here are my after shots! I'm really happy with the way the cabinets turned out. We were scared to paint them, i've had some sticky luck with this in the past, but the key was to give them ample drying time before re-hanging everything.

We are lucky to have tall ceilings, so I used a 96" White Waffel Shower curtain, I love how it draws the eye up and away from the remaining ugly lanolium floors and dated vinyl shower insert.

Just need to add a few more decorative touches and some hooks in the water closet and we can completely mark this room off the list.

One of these days I will have a better camera to capture our Labor's of Love. Until then...

Enjoy!

xoxo

Our Wedding Book

2010-04-16T11:46:00.000-07:00

With Baby Bean just 11 weeks away, i'm feeling a mad crunch to get things that i've been lolly gagging on d-o-n-e. The list is quite long to say the least, but i'm truly excited to check off one item...Our Wedding Book. It's only taken me 10 months to finish, but i'm pretty happy with the end result.

You can check out my handy work at the My Publisher link below and by doing so you can get a coupon to design and print your own book for free! I'd love your feedback!

Link to Our Wedding Book

xoxo

Belly Update

2010-04-15T09:59:00.000-07:00

New baby belly pics posted at the KooKoo's Nest. Enjoy my 29 weeks of roundness.

xoxo

Traffic Violation

2010-03-23T14:56:00.000-07:00

...and by traffic violation I am referring to the incident that happened to Aislinn and I over lunch as we commenced an innocent trip to TJ Max.

You can read about our not so pleasant experience here.

Welp, She Said It

2010-03-22T14:40:00.000-07:00

Went to my monthly baby doctor appointment today and I was sorta bummed (OK, totally bummed) when the doctor told me she was concerned about how much weight I've put on. At this point in my pregnancy, i've put on a pound per week...more than I would like, but I really didn't think it was anything to be concerned about. I guess it just blows when you already feel fat and then someone confirms it. I knew MC was lying...LOL. My main complaint is that I physically cannot workout because of my sciatica so what am I supposed to do?! She told me to cut out carbs which is awesome because nothing says "yummy" like a big juicy steak or chicken breast right now. Gross.

My plan of attack is to just start working out again, I mean, I see my chiropractor everyday anyways, what's a little extra back/leg pain? Also I will just continue to eat healthy as I do, but be extra careful not to stop by Taco Bell when I get "the calling!"

On a happy note, MC's soccer season started up again. I love soccer season. Usually it means I get to sit out in the sunshine for a few hours on Sunday and watch my husband run around like a super sexy version of David Beckham! Good Times.

Love, Fatty

Conversations

2010-03-19T14:13:00.000-07:00

The following conversation is an oldy but goody. Still spoofed regularly around the office.

Vendor: Natalie can I get your last name?
Me: It's Callahan.
Vendor: Are you Irish? I have an Irish Wolf Hound!
Me: (silence)

Update

2010-03-18T10:16:00.000-07:00

25 Week Update complete with pics at KooKoo's Nest!

Enjoy!

Bath Time for Bonzo

2010-03-17T11:23:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning as I was trying to sleep-in, Meester Mew crawled up to my chin to cuddle. Normally we don't like him on the bed, but as it was a cozy lazy morning I let it happen. I was quickly reminded however, why we don't let him do this. Maceo's paws were so stinky that I immediately threw him off the bed, and the stink was still there after he left. Gross! I had to wash all the bedding and Mister Stinky Paws?...Let's just say it's was time to get soapy!

This is only the second bath we've ever given him...but he's a pretty good sport about it! MC and I pretty much giggled the whole time this was going on...and we wonder if anybody thinks these photos are as funny as we do. Chances are no, but here you go anyhow!

(just a few complaints)

(bye bye stinkies)

(Skinny little tail and paws)

(if looks could kill)

Muker spent the rest of the afternoon laying in the sun and licking himself clean. He wasn't even swayed by the can of tuna MC opened! Shocker! In the end, he stopped hating us...and Auntie Erin was very happy when she came over later and he smelled like coconuts! Tropical Kitty!

Conversations

2010-03-08T11:45:00.000-08:00

Co-worker: "Did you get new shoes?"
Me: "No, these are just flip flops from last year."
Co-worker: "Oh, I thought you were wearing white Sketchers."
Me: "It's been awhile since my feet saw the sun."

Sciatic Pain and Baby Moves

2010-03-04T17:55:00.000-08:00

As most of you know I have struggled on and off with sciatica for the past 5 years. Its always been painful but i've always been able to work/run through it. I had no idea how bad it could get, and as of late, BAD doesn't describe it. In the past few weeks, my sciatic pain has taken over my life. My chiropractor sees me everyday, sometimes twice a day in hopes to relieve the pressure on the nerve that is causing the most crippling lower back, hip and leg pain I have ever experienced. I can't walk, get in and out of my car, sit up, lay down, bend over, get in bed, roll over in bed, sit on my couch, get up off the floor with out the sharpest of pain (I keep refering to it as a 10) on the pain scale. Basically, in crude terms, it sucks.

I have always imagined that I would have a fabulous and fit pregnancy. I would eat only organic, workout daily and be as cute as can be...things are not as I imagined. Aside from my wicked Taco Bell Double Decker cravings, I can't workout (let alone lay in bed) and i've already gained an awesome 20 lbs. You can throw "cute" right out the window too, because there is nothing cute about a penny-less waddling whale.

MC keeps reminding me that I have one job to do right now and that is to grow a healthy little boy to term; it's my life's most important task, but i'd be lying if I told you this severe pain I'm living with isn't starting to bring me down just a bit.

Last night as I lay in bed wondering if I would ever get to sleep through the pain, my little boy started moving around like a mad man. It lasted a good 15 minutes and it was some of his strongest moves yet! We can already feel him through my belly. He's so cute, my little dancer. Everytime I feel him move, i'm reminded that things will get better, and hopefully all this pain is temporary. Soon I will be holding my little bean and the pain will be a thing of the past.

In the meantime, thanks to my Chiropractor's who know my pain is real and are working with me daily and to my MC who helps me get through the long painful, sometimes tearful nights. I love you baby.

Is that what I think it is?

2010-02-22T13:23:00.000-08:00

This morning MC and I went for our "official" anatomy scan. We invited MC's mom along and expected nothing too exciting, just confimation on the sex (female) and hopes to see that precious little face. The second the tech put the wand on my belly she asked if we wanted to know the sex. I told her we already knew it was a girl, but as the words were coming out of my mouth, I was looking at a picture of something else...

Behold...our son.

MC jumped out of his chair, Sue was squealing and I about fell off the table...Are you kidding me, it's a boy after all! Now that the shock has worn off, I'm really super excited. I'm really proud to be having a little boy. I've always known I would be a mommy to a little boy, I even dreamt about it again last night. It feels good.

The only unfortunate thing about the appointment was that little beanis is face down and totally not into getting his picture taken. Here's a nice one of his side...i'm laying on the sarcasim with that comment.

I get another ultrasound in about 8 weeks so hopefully we get to see a nice shot of his face at that time. Until then, i'm happy with the one we got a few weeks ago, now we know HE already is resembling Daddy.

Love, Proud Mama

Steal of a Deal

2010-02-22T13:00:00.000-08:00

I saw this little beauty at TJ Maxx last week and could not stop thinking about it. Yup, its just a little white sugar bowl, but how cute is it?! So the following morning, I called TJ and told them to put it on hold for me. Near the end of the day I went to go get it and...it was gone. I searched the hold item and the racks of white dishes...nothing. I was near tears, lame I know. Alas, the retarded gal behind the counter found it in the "Go Back" cart. Best moment of the day! I swiftly purchased it (discounted due to a small chip) for $3.00! A steal of a deal if you ask me, and now, it happily lives in my little antique china cabinet.

Happy Birthday Miss Banana

2010-02-17T16:45:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday to my quirky and beautiful little sister Hannah. I absolutely cannot believe you are already 17! Where has the time gone?!!!

Much Love, Sally

My Valentine

2010-02-12T12:46:00.000-08:00

M - is for My Baby Daddy

A - is for All I Need

T - is for Thoughtful

T - is for Taken...forever

H - is for Handsome
E - is for my Everything

W - is for Wonderful

Happy Valentine's Day my Beautiful Man. I'm blessed to have you in my life. Tomorrow we will have been married 8 months. Thank you for making me the luckiest woman in the world.

Ps. You're daughter is treating me like a punching bag as I type this.

T.G.I.F.

2010-02-12T11:15:00.000-08:00

Need I say more?

E.R. Adventures

2010-02-05T09:51:00.000-08:00

So i've been experiencing some mild cramping and yesterday it seemed to intensify. Just to be cautious our doctor's office sent us into the emergency room to get checked out.

It was a long night, but said and done, it was worth it. Aside from the rude nurses and one jerk of doctor in particular, the ultrasound tech was super cool and made up for the rest of the lame staff. He showed us all of Bean's perfect organ's and took measurements to make sure growth was normal. Just as I've known all along, I'm actually a week ahead of where my OBGYN has me. And, had the OBGYN given a rat's ass when I showed her my charts, we all would have been on the same page the whole time. Anyhoo, Bean measured just a few day's shy of 19 weeks in size, everywhere except for the legs which are actually measure closer to 21 weeks! Awww, little Beany Long Legs!

It was fun to see it again, when you're pregant, you basically live for the moments you get to feel it move, hear the heartbeat or see it on the ultrasound. It totally had hiccups and was opening and closing its mouth like a champ. I love that adorable little Bean!

Below is a great pic of Bean's profile...is that Daddy's nose I see?

The wonderful ultrasound technician also gave us his best guess on Bean's sex, however, he could only be about 90% sure as the umbellical cord was in the way, so MC and I will not be making our final announcement until we get the Ultrasound scheduled for Feb. 22, stay tuned!

The rest our our night was spent waiting for a doctor to come and tell us absolutely nothing. Luckily MC has a new phone with a super cool car racing game...which he wouldn't let me play. I was forced to watch college basketball while I slowly starved to death.

Mad Mama

2010-02-03T12:37:00.000-08:00

So we had a baby doc appointment today and are super bummed that we don't get to find out the sex of the baby for another two and a half weeks. I will be 21 weeks and that's bs considering half the ladies I know find out 12-16 weeks. Feb 22 will be the magic day so stay tuned...in the meantime, I will enjoy a few more weeks of ignorant bliss.

Love,
Mama Nat

TMI

2010-01-19T10:52:00.001-08:00

I ran out of deodrant last week, and still havent done anything about it.

And I Quote...

2010-01-18T09:35:00.000-08:00

"...and a very select few will get morning sickness starting in the fourth month." What to Expect When You're Expecting; Chapter 8

Thanks Peanut. Appreciate it.

Tittley Winks and Other Food for Thought

2010-01-06T13:52:00.000-08:00

"Dickey's big pickles rule, Port of Subs big pickles drool!"

"I went out for a sandwich and came back with a nightstand."

"If you're willing to buy it without a handle and a scratch, then you're willing to return it." (my response...Oh really?!)

"If you are the one who smoked in the women's restroom today, consider yourself a jerk."

"Your presence causes me anxiety."

"It's only recently come to my attention that you irritate me."

"Just because the light is out in this stall, doesn't mean I can't see what you left behind. At this moment, I hate you."

"Your perfume lingers, and that's not necessarily a good thing."

You have just experienced a series of my thoughts.

Bon Appetite

Things that excite me

2010-01-05T14:07:00.000-08:00

A few years ago I was watching Candice Olson's design show and this episode featured a picture wall that I immediately fell in love with. After a little research I discovered the picture wall's website. It's a great concept, it gives you 10 frames (with 5 different color options), with 3 maps (you can lay it out Horizontally, Vertically, or Diagonally). The thing I loved about is it tells you where each nail goes and where each frame goes. I am notorious for putting 5 extra nail holes to each frame trying to get it right.

The price for the picture wall was $349 so I have been putting off the purchase until we were settled in the house, but there never seems to be a right time to spend $349 on 10 picture frames. AND THEN, my friend Alicia told me about a picture wall they have at Target. The only color option is black, but other than that, it's nearly identical to the one Candice Olson used and the best part...it's only $99! What a steal! I purchased it today and am super siked to receive it in 3-5 business days. Can't wait to finally print some of our wedding pics!

See if you can tell the difference between Target's and Candice's!

Ps. Candice's is on top :O)

New Year's Resolutions

2010-01-04T14:14:00.000-08:00

I'm really not the type to make New Year's Resolutions...usually because they are broken/forgotten by the second week of the month. But this year, I have a few things that I would like to attempt.

1. Take better care of myself:

This includes, looking cuter on a daily basis (avoid bed head at work), working out at least 4-5x per week, and eating healthier for my small bean.

2. Take better care of my husband:

Cook dinner and have better groceries on hand for when the poor guy is hungry. This sort of reverts back to #1...if there was better food in the house, I might order in less.

3. Be more patient and kind:

Lately my temper sucks (I blame hormones). I want to be sweeter, kinder and more gentle to all those around me.

4. Keep a budget:

I'm so tired of living paycheck to paycheck. I'm 30 years old damn-it! I need to learn to live with-in my means.

5. Slow Down and enjoy life:

I am so rushed from day to day. Wake up late, rush to work, work late, rush to the gym, rush home, crawl into bed...only to do it all over again the next day. If I can somehow manage to wake up earlier, enjoy the day a bit, take lunches, breath, perhaps I wont be such a jerk the second things don't workout like I want them to.

6. Be Grateful and Thankful:

I'm always so consumed by what I don't have, or what's not going right for me, (baby's making me fat and pimpley, our house is not perfect yet, my car blows, it's cold in Reno, i'm poor). I need to just appreciate what I have (an awesome home, a baby on the way, a loving family, and a super sexy husband that loves me even though i'm a raging lunatic). I love everything I have and how lucky am I? I love my family, my husband, my growing baby, my home, my heep of a jeep. I love it all and am so grateful for it. I need to express that more.

White Trash Bowling Bash

2009-12-23T11:43:00.000-08:00

This year's Bauserman Group Holiday Party fund was small, like most of our paychecks...but you can call the party planning committee Hero's because we managed to pull off a stellar Holiday Feista.

This year's theme... A White Trash Bowling Bash that included bowls of fake cigarettes, quarters for Juke Box Tunes, all you can eat bowling alley food, and Old English 40's.

Check out the photos below for a hint of the debachury and my expanding waste line. Thats a tough one.

As you can see, we had waaaaay to much fun with the fake cigarettes and colored hair pieces. It was hideous fun all the way around. Props go out to Rocky the bartender for the awesome group picture taken at the end of the night. Good eye buddy!

Love Day

2009-12-15T15:54:00.000-08:00

I'm certian my life was not complete

before you became part of it.

Happy Love Day my Sweet Prince.

3 years 3 months down,

an lifetime to go.

X on the C

2009-12-10T15:16:00.000-08:00

This weekend we took a short bus ride with a group of friends the Virginia City's Annual Christmas on the Comstock. For those of you who don't know, Virginia City is a 19th Century Mining Town that once was quite an important gold settlement. 150 years later this City still has all the old mining town charm with killer saloons to boot. I enjoyed Hot Chocolate and Tomato Juice. Its fun being the only sober person. Are you catching a hint of sarcasm?...cause I'm laying it on pretty thick.

Soon-To-Married Chris and Christina, Cowboy MC, Me, and Jill and Howie Stockton

We we're supposed to wear funny hats. Matt is the only one who took the challenge seriously. Me being his wife, believed him. This is the last time I listen to him. This stupid hat was not as warm as it looked and my face looks FAT.

The Parade was nothing short of Awesome. It included Cowboys, people dressed up like Doc Holiday and some other old timers that are rumored to have dwelled in VC, old jeeps and VW's decorated to the Holiday Nines, and Donkeys and Miniture horses decorated with chrismas lights, antlers, and tinsel. That of course, was my favorite part. One guy jumped into the street to hug one of the donkeys. At first I thought that was strange, but then, I wanted to hug the donkey too. I didnt do it. This of course makes me sad.

The night continued on in typical partying fashion (as is common in our group) with slurring speech, dancing and pizza eating well into the night. I was happy to catch a ride home with one of our friends and avoid that ride on the bus home. Not sure I could have handled everybodies booze breath, something I've become very sensative to this days.

Happy Holidays!

Winter Wonderland and Stuff

2009-12-09T12:15:00.000-08:00

Snow is one of the reasons I LOVE Reno. We got absolutely dumped on this past Sunday/Monday. Most of the town got a Snow Day, it was a lovely quiet white day.

Monday Morning

Tuesday's Drive to Work

I threw Maceo in the snow on Monday. When he landed the snow went "poof"! It was too cute. He actually didnt seem to mind. I think he was distracted by all the birds in the tree!

We also put up our tree this weekend. We had wanted to go chop our own down (mainly because its only $10 versus the $70 we usual spend) but we ran out of time. I became VERY emotional when I started to think about all the poor trees that don't get picked every year. So sad. Well, we did our part and saved a lovely Silver Tip Pine from an un-happy holiday. We decorated it in Matt's favorite style...colored lights and non-matchy bulbs (some things just are not worth a battle). Amazingly enough, I talked him out of tinsel this year. There is a God!

Meester Mew also got into the Holiday Spirit, well he really didnt have a choice. Just look at our little chat...is he not fantastic!?

This last pic is my favorite, thats why I made it Extra-Large. Look at the little spittle on his lips. Goo, he melts my heart...little fat cat.

Trans Siberian Orchestra

2009-12-01T16:21:00.000-08:00

This past Friday, Meme and I went to the Trans Siberian Orchestra. I love going to shows with Meme, she loves to rock out and she loves the loud music, it makes her feel like her hearing is what it used to be. It's too cute. I, on the other hand, probably lost a good bit of my hearing after that show. I'll just say this, TSO rocked long, hard, and loud. At a good 2.5 hours into the show, I was screaming "uncle" in my head, with the commencement of each new song. The show was 3 hours long! All I can say is Thank God we went to the 3pm show, I never would have lasted through the 8pm show which we had initally tried to get tickets for. It was fun and entertaining none-the-less.

(I love my beautiful Meme)

Below is a list of what you may experience at a TSO Concert:

"Affectionate" Couples (get a room damnit, your making me more nauseas)

80's Rock Hair (oh yeah, they flipped that shit)

Lasers (please say this with the Dr. Evil accent)

Shooting Flames and Sparklers (um Rhode Island Concert Fire Disaster anyone?)

Gargoryle Anime

Hearing Loss

Extreme Fatigue

Challenged Endurance (yours)

Talented Rock Musicians (who didnt quite make it in the rock world)

(did i mention lasers? You have NO idea)

Thanksgiving

2009-11-25T13:44:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving Everyone. This year I am thankful for so many things!

1. My Loving Husband

2. My Supportive and Healthy Family

3. The Peanut in the Pod

4. My Awesome House

5. My Wonderful Friends

6. My Hellion of a Cat

7. My Crazy Job

8. A Long Fall in Reno

9. Moments without Morning Sickness

10. Taco Bell Double Deckers

May this Thanksgiving give you much to be Thankful For.

Much Love,

Tallie

Thought of the day

2009-11-23T12:41:00.000-08:00

I'm wondering if I'm the only person in the world who can be thinking about a Taco Bell Double Decker Whilst throwing up breakfast?

Thank you Morning Sickness!

The Cat's Out of the Bag...

2009-11-20T10:20:00.000-08:00

This is NOT a facebook announcement, but since it seems the cat is out of the bag (i'm pointing fingers at Maceo) I thought I would share some exciting news. Now don't get your hopes up, we are only 7 weeks and praying that everything happens as its supposed to.

Other than that, i'm spending my days green and queasy...but loving every minute of it. You can check out our ultrasound pics here !

Also, be sure to scroll to the bottom to see what little Peanut is looking like these days!

The Bauserman Group

2009-11-17T14:07:00.000-08:00

These are the people I spend ALL my time with...not by choice, but I love most of them anyhow. This was taken a few Friday's ago at a cool little bar called St. James Infirmary, honoring Nancy's last day (Lucky). And yes, I am sitting on my boss's feet.