Hanging in There

We are still hanging in there. Life is crazy busy though. The girls are both doing very well, and we are all adjusting as expected to our growing family. I'll try to do a real update soon. Until then, enjoy the girls fall "school" pictures. Toodles!!



Alyssa- 10 weeks




Lauren- 3 1/2

What's new

This one will be short, as I am finding it more and more difficult to be creative as of late. In gist, our summer continues rolling along without any significant events to report. I've been extremely exhausted and experiencing those horrible 3rd trimester symptoms that makes doing much of anything problematic. So, we are mainly trying to stay inside the house and I am resting as much as I can. I return to work on Aug. 4th and the kids first day is Aug. 10. It's approaching fast, so I am trying to not overdo it now. We are going to attempt another day at Alabama Adventure tomorrow (Friday). Lauren loved it so much! Due to my condition, we can't be too far from home, but that is a fun day trip that we can make. In closing, I'm posting a few recent pictures of our summer. Enjoy.

Brandi

*Update- Blogger is not working for me and the picture feature is not being cooperative. I'll upload later.

Political Ramblings

I try to refrain from discussing politics publicly. But, there are times when I feel it is completely warranted. As citizens of what I believe to be the greatest country in the world, it is not only our right, but it is also our duty to be the voice for our children and families. I hate stepping on toes, but I have never felt more compelled to speak out about that which I feel is necessary. Our country is on a very slippery slope at this point. Whether you agree or disagree with its current direction, the truth is plain. America will not be the same for my children with the change that is taking place. I fear for what this wonderful nation is going to represent and become when my little ones are my age. I think we have been heading down the wrong path for years......long before the present administration took over. However, the swift winds of change as of late is beyond scary. Without going into too much more detail, I would love for you all to check out a blog I follow religiously. McMama (http://www.mycharmingkids.net/) has a very good post t about the state of affairs in our country. I was amazed at how similar our views are. Again, my goal is not to offend those that have a different opinion than my own. I am speaking on behalf of my family and the rights in which we were given. Our freedom is under fire, and my prayer is that the "change we need" is not overshadowed by glitz, glamour, and a new look. God Bless and please check out McMama's post. She presents my thoughts exactly and does a much better job!
Brandi

BTW...please comment. Open, civil communication is always good..whether or not we agree. I would love to hear from some readers.

**Update** No matter how I feel about our current administration, I carry a burden to lift them up in prayer. I don't want to sound cold or close-minded (as some might think), but I do love this great country and want only the best. Again, no matter the party or beliefs, prayer is in order now as much as it ever has been.

Insomnia

...little to say..it is 5:00 in the morning on my first official day of summer break. Why was I wide awake at 4:00 a.m.? Is this any indication of how the rest of my time off is going to be? YUCK!! At least I got an early bid in on Ebay. I found the cutest crib bedding set that I hope to snag before the bidding gets out of hand. We'll see. If I win it, I'll post a picture. Until next time!
Brandi

Alyssa Claire

With all that has consumed the Styles household in the last few weeks, I don't think I ever blogged about the gender of the baby. We had our ultrasound over a month ago. Everything is good with the little one. SHE is still on target to arrive around the end of August. We are so excited about Alyssa Claire joining our family. I think it's great that Lauren is going to have a little sister to play with and look after. She loves tickling her (my belly) and calling her Sissy. I can't wait for them to meet and get to know each other. I will leave you with a couple of new belly shots. Ignore the fat rolls and bulges. Krispie Kreme and Sonic slushes have been good to me lately!!




25 Weeks

Happy Anniversary Chris

I want to send a shout-out to my loving husband. Chris and I were married 8 years ago today, after almost 4 years of dating. It is hard to believe how fast time gets away, but I am truly grateful for where we are in our lives today. Through some ups and downs (mostly ups), God has blessed our marriage and enriched us as His children. Thank you Chris for loving me unconditionally and for being a great daddy to our precious angels Lauren and Alyssa (arriving in August). I love you and look forward to many more years to come!
Brandi



Chris's Senior Prom 1998


Wedding Day May 19, 2001


Lauren's Birth Feb. 27, 2006

Long Time No Blog

I realize it has been forever since I've posted. I hope this finds you healthy and loving life. School is down to single digit days left; so, I'll write a detailed post in the days to come. Until then, enjoy the summer weather and soak up some rays!
Brandi

20 weeks

22 weeks

I am now 24 weeks & looking every bit of it and some. Surprising as it might be, I have had very little weight gain (pound wise). The dr. said it is okay to treat myself to doughnuts and such on occasion. I am wondering if that includes the whole box?!

Short Post

We have had a restful Spring Break week. It was oh so needed, but Chris and I both are ready to get back and finish the final 9-weeks of the school year. It is hard to believe that summer is lurking just around the corner. God is good!!!

I am adding a couple of 16 week belly pictures. To me, the 4th and 5th months serve as the bridge between the yucky 1st trimester and the miserable 3rd trimester. I am happy to have reached that milestone. In addition, I feel pretty good most days, with the exception of sinus/allergy headaches....darn pollen!!

Until we meet again, enjoy the belly pics. Also, Lauren insisted that she have a picture made too. So, enjoy her cute pics with her disheveled hair, but absolutely adorable smile.
Brandi


16 weeks

Lauren being silly

It's the Big 3

Wow. Life has a way of moving faster each and every day. We are all doing well, just busy and occupied.

Chris's birthday is tomorrow. I'll not say how YOUNG he is turning..he might get a little irritated. He'll always be 2 behind me, so he can't say anything!! ;) Lauren is turning 3 on Friday. I cannot believe it. She will starting big school before too long. Time flies!! Anyway, we have a lot going on this weekend. I've got a wild week ahead in getting everything set for her party on Sunday. The circus is also coming to town this week. We're going Saturday night. So, our entire week and weekend is turning out to be very hectic. I'll take lots of pictures and post some soon.

Until next time.
Brandi

Slow to Update

Sorry I am a slow up-dater. The last 6 weeks have been rough for me..us, I guess I should say. My pregnancy symptoms have all presented themselves as fierce enemies..hehehehe! It seems like every possible symptom and every possible side effect of the prenatal vitamins has found me and hung on for dear life. It has been a little difficult around here since Christmas. I in no way want to complain though. God is so faithful, and the sickness is perhaps a good thing. My baby is healthy and life is shaping up as it should.

We did have a slight scare about a week ago. I had very light spotting for a few days. I made a weekend call to the on-call nurse, who absolutely eased my mind. She said it sounded perfectly fine, and it was most likely a relatively common occurrance for over 50% of all pregnancies. To be on the safe side, I went for a second ultrasound on Monday. The little "blueberry" is just perfect at this point. Everything is at it should be, and my stats were in check also. Blueberry you might ask...yes..our little blueberry. While performing the ultrasound, the tech made the comment that the baby is the size of a blueberry right now. Bless it's little heart. The name has stuck. So, I guess until we can come up with something else, Blueberry it is.

Lauren is doing very well with this news. She has reached an age where she is excited about having a little playmate live with us. On several occasions, she has peaked into our spare bedroom and said, "This is the baby's room". She has also made comments about looking at the baby at night from her bed...the two rooms are right across the hall from one another. It is absolutely precious. I feel good that the timing has worked out as it has. Having children 3 1/2 years apart is a good distance, but it is also close enough for bonds to form.

God Bless and have a great weekend.
Brandi

Signs Signs, Everywhere Signs

...not only was this a rock anthem from the 70's, it has also become real to me as of late. All indications of a growing baby are surfacing! Am I showing yet? Not so much, but my lower abdomen is starting to bloat a good bit; hence, my regular clothes are shrinking. Am I nauseated or sick? The best way to answer that is with another question...Am I breathing? For the record, YES! I have been so sick this time around. Am I having cravings? Refer to the previous two questions and make a good educated guess. Is the potty becoming my good personal friend? That is affirmative. I visit all throughout the day and sometimes two or three times per night. That is why I probably got a total of only 4-5 good hours of sleep last night. It's hard to get back to sleep once awakened. Prior to the pregnancy, I was not one to get up once going to bed. We have been blessed in that department. Lauren was sleeping soundly through the night around 2 months old...and, I can probably count on one hand how many times she has gotten up during the night or had a crying spell, etc. that prompted us to get up since then. No joke! I'm not bragging. We are 100% thankful!! So, this is a first for me being up and down since she was a tiny little thing. Hopefully it will subside for a few months once I reach the second trimester. Until then, I'll just have to wait it out and enjoy the ride. Moving right along, Am I having those other unmentionable symptoms? If I am being perfectly honest, I would have to respond with another YES, but it's not so bad. At this point in the game, the nausea and heartburn are the two biggest nuisances. Overall, all is well, and I am counting down each day of a healthy pregnancy. Please continue to pray for a healthy baby and pregnancy. Each new day is a blessing, and we praise God daily for his provisions.

Surprise

We're expecting again and excited beyond belief. Life has a way of surprising us when we least expect it!! It is still early, so please keep us in your prayers. As you can imagine, we are walking on egg shells this time around because of last July. Chris and I are confident that all will be well!!

I had my first prenatal visit this week. The dr. said all appears to be as it should at this stage. I must say though, I am having terrible morning sickness. This is new to me, as my pregnancy with Lauren gave me energy. I never got sick..at least not this kind of sickness. YUCK!! We are looking at a c-section delivery around the last week of August. School will barely be back in session before I take leave. At least I'll get to know my new students before the baby comes. I'll update as often as possible...and possibly include some belly pics along the way!
God Bless,
Brandi

Updates on the Way

This has been a very busy first week back! Lauren started a new daycare, and we have been running around like mad. I'll update very soon and catch you up on the latest comings and goings; as well as some ventures we will be partaking in this new year. Until then, God bless.
Brandi

2009

WOW...2009!!! I cannot believe we are now 9 years into the 2000's. It genuinely feels like days ago that Y2K was all abuzz. Would the world's computers crash, clocks stop, life as we know it come to an end? As we all know, none of the above happened, and life continued without major catastrophe. Having said that, I also think back to the days leading up to the turn of the century. Did we have any idea what was in store over the years that would follow? As the saying goes, "Hindsight is 20/20". What would America be like if 9-11 never happened. Would we remain a global giant, or would something else as equally devastating overtake us? If we only knew what was about to happen, what would we do to prepare our families, our minds, and our hearts? If we only knew!

Living in a decade consumed by war, economic crises, erratic gas prices, and overall uncertainty, I have reached one conclusion. God is the only constant. No matter what lies ahead or how difficult life becomes, He has a plan. It is easy to live in fear over political affairs, who the president is/is not, and the state of the economy. I cannot remember a time when life was more unnerving. My faith is only renewed through Christ, who gives me strength. I pray that He can be real in your life too. I do not want to sound preachy, but he has seen me through so much in my short 31 years. He hasn't failed me yet; and, his word tells me that he NEVER fails. What we are facing as a nation today is nothing to Him. He will take care of us!!

I am excited for a new year. There are things that concern me, but God is in control. Life is good. I hope and pray that you make 2009 a year to remember!
God Bless!
Brandi

Christmas 2008

This quite possibly goes down as one of the busiest holiday seasons we've had in recent memory. We had five different stops...would have been six, but we were under the weather the day of one of them. I must say, we have experienced a lot this year and have so much to be thankful for. God continues to show his love for us everyday. Enjoy a few of the pictures from some of our festivities.
God Bless!
Brandi

BTW-I am believing in great things for the new year. May you experience health, happiness, and peace of mind in 2009.

One Year Ago

I have been very slow about getting my holiday pictures uploaded. That is just one of the many tasks I am slacking at this season! Christmas break should be a time to rest, but we have had a function to go to everyday. I will try to get them up in the next couple of days. Until then, we wish you a HAPPY NEW YEAR, from our home to yours!!
God Bless!
Brandi

Enjoy these pictures of Lauren from one year ago. They were all taken in December 2007. I cannot believe how she has changed. Much of the baby pudge is gone, she is a head taller, but she still loves sweets as much as she did then!! Wow, how a year changes everything!

2 Down..3 More to Go

The Styles household is crazy busy this week. We only have 3 more school days before Christmas break. That is exciting, but I have so much left to do. Grades are due by Friday afternoon. That is a never-ending mound of paperwork. Thursday and Friday will be spent having Christmas parties and AR celebrations. Wow...I dread it...sad but true. I'll update as life slows a little. Until then, Merry Christmas from our home to yours!!
God Bless,
Brandi

Reflection, Loss, and Moving On

I got up early this morning, attempting to beat the Christmas rush to town. Much to my dismay, every other shopper in North Alabama had the same idea. At least I should have my list complete well before the Christmas Eve madness.

Of the many items I purchased this morning, one bears great sentimental value to me. I'll explain more as you read. Most of you are aware that Chris and I suffered a personal loss in July. We were pregnant with our second child, only to miscarry at 6 or so weeks along. This was/is a devastating loss to us, as it was a planned pregnancy and something we never thought we would face. For those of you that have been down this road before, you can relate and know the struggles that accompany this type of death. Yes, death! It is heart breaking and so misunderstood. I in no way equate an early miscarriage to a late-term miscarriage or infant/child death. However, it is extremely heart breaking and is not something I have very easily moved passed.

My heart aches everyday to some degree. It is now five months later, and I still have days that sadness completely consumes me. I still go through periods of various emotions; anger, despair, frustration, and sadly bitterness at times. Having said that, I must emphasize that Chris and I are coping and have done remarkably well considering the magnitude of our personal tragedy, not to mention the other difficult circumstances this year (moved into a new home, sick family members, death of a grandparent). Chris often tells me that I missed my calling. I could be an award winning actress for the "show" I can put on. By this, he simply means I am the queen of putting on a happy face and covering up my feelings. I do not like to show emotions in public. If I do, things must be completely falling apart because that is just not how I am. I say this to explain that while I am striving daily to move on and get beyond my loss, I do still ache for my child that I never got to hold. We never got an ultrasound picture; we never heard the first heartbeat; we don't know the gender of the baby; but, we love him/her/them very much.

As I stated earlier, if you have walked in our shoes, you know how I feel. I never understood miscarriage and it's impacts before July 27, 2008. Now, it is a haunting reminder of how fragile life can be. I realize that people don't know what to say, and they often say things that are not the most appropriate. I have had to bite my tongue over the past few months at some of the comments I've received. When it comes right down to it, I realize that friends and family mean well, and they don't understand; thus, sometimes sarcastic comments or jokes are said with the best of intentions. But, to someone dealing with a loss it becomes alcohol to a wound. It was real to us and nothing can change that. I do not hold anger toward anyone that has made a "silly" comment. I have most likely been in the same boat before, not knowing how to act or what to say. Having said that, we have also received much encouragement, prayers, and understanding from so many. If you see us, it is okay for you to ask us how we are doing. Yes, I still hurt, but I would rather my baby be remembered, than never talked about at all. Technically we are a family of 3, but in my heart, we are truly a family of 4. Our youngest is playing, dancing, singing, and growing up in the most Holy of Holies. It is so hard for me to even fathom that my little angel is being raised by Jesus. I cannot begin to express the peace I feel as I write those words. Tears are pouring from my eyes, but I am blessed having known the child of my womb for the short time that was given. For that, I am truly grateful!!

Earlier in the post, I mentioned that we have very few tangible reminders of the baby. Chris and I have discussed what we could do to commemorate the little one. Since it is Christmas time, I can think of no better way than to add an ornament to our tree that honors and celebrates the memory. I stopped at Lifeway Christian Store this morning and selected a beautiful silver angel. It is a mother holding a heart in her hands. It reminds me that even though I cannot hold this precious child in my arms, I will always hold him/her in my heart. Life will go on, and by the grace of God we will be given another child or children; but, our baby that would have been due in March 2009 will forever be with us. We will NEVER forget you!!

Thanks for bearing with me as I reflect. It is my hope and prayer that the next time I post about the baby, it will be that Lauren and our Little Angel are having a new brother or sister. God Bless and Merry Christmas!
Brandi

BTW...feel free to comment. I would love to hear from some readers!!!

Tis the Season

....to be busy!! Between finishing up the first semester of school, Chris preparing for his school Christmas concert, parties, and shopping, we are a little on the overworked side. I will update soon! There is so much to talk about, but until then, I leave you with a MERRY CHRISTMAS.
God Bless!
Brandi

Thanksgiving and More

We attended the Bridge Street Christmas tree lighting on November 21st. It was a breath taking view and an unbelievably festive way to enter into the holiday season. The tree itself was enormous and so perfectly lit and decorated. The crowds of adoring onlookers helped to "make the season bright!" As the Huntsville Symphony Orchestra serenaded us with Christmas classics, it was impossible not to get that child-like feeling that is oh-so consuming. BUT, it was COLD!! As a matter of fact, it was the coldest day of the year to date. Lauren was bundled up in her fir rimmed leather coat, and I, being the big dummy I am, had every hair on her little head perfectly in place; with bow on top. "My, Oh My," 25 degrees with the wind blowing is not the time to worry about "cuteness"!! We, along with half of the 2000+ others made a quick run into the shop(s) to snatch up the last of the boggins and scarfs. Thankfully, Gymboree had the sweetest little matching set that was on sale. After waiting in line behind the other silly Mommies, I made my purchase, yanked off that Christmas bow, and bundled my child up; like I should have done before leaving the house. All-in-all, it was a great evening that will probably become a Styles family tradition.

Sunday was the Woosley family Thanksgiving get-together at our house. We had a delicious lunch of snack-type foods...being that not a one of us wanted to dive into the big Thanksgiving meal yet; you know..turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce....NO...enough of that was to come in the days ahead. Instead, we opted for deli sandwiches, stuffed mushrooms, cocktail shrimp, and other holiday/party favorites. It was tasty, and we had a wonderful time. The kids had so much fun and wore themselves out! In fact, Mom just informed me of a rather humorous event that I didn't even know happened....sorry Katie!!! :) Evidently, Emma (L's cousin) and Lauren got into our garden tub with their clothes on. As I've heard it, one of them turned the water on, soaking Little E. I can imagine that "someone" was L!!! She has a terrible habit of turning knobs, handles, or whatever else that produces water, lights and/or noise. I gave katie a shirt to change E into, but I thought she had just gotten sweaty; I had no idea what really happened. When you get an almost three year old, and a child just entering into the "infamous 2's" together, be sure to keep the fire dept., poison control, and 911 on speed dial. It might get dangerous!! :) They can make you want to pinch their heads off and laugh at the same time! Besides that, it was a great day and a fun way to start the holiday.

Thursday was the Grider (Mom's family) family Thanksgiving lunch. It was the usual wonderful day of eats, hanging out with the family/rednecks...just kidding guys.....remember, I am a Grider too....so I guess I am the biggest redneck of all!!! They are a great family and we have the best time of laughs, jokes, and most of all memories. I love you all! That afternoon, we made a quick run to Chris's Aunt Mary's house. We were too stuffed to eat again, but we visited for a while. The evening ended with the Havoc hockey game. We don't go to as many as we would like because of our hectic schedule. Lauren loves to go, so we figured that would be as good a time as any to fit it in. She did amazingly well and cheered on the team. Her "that's not nice" comments during the fights were funny too!! The teacher in me looks for everyday '"teachable" moments in the little things life has to offer! As I digress, the night ended very late for us; we crashed at the house around 11:00 or so, ending a very eventful and blessed day. We are truly THANKFUL and gracious to our Heavenly Father for his many blessings!

The Styles family Thanksgiving celebration was on Friday. We dined on those Thanksgiving favorites yet again...YES...we are officially "turkied and dressing'd" OUT!! Once again, it was a perfect time with the people we love and are so thankful to have in our lives. The night ended with a trip to town for a a large purchase of Chris's new toy (47" LCD LG Flat Panel TV) for our living room. Merry Christmas, Happy Birthday, Happy Easter, Happy 4th of July, Merry Christmas, Happy Birthday....get the picture!! :) Yes, we made the plunge. Chris has wanted this for several years now, and he has been extremely gracious in waiting. It definitely has great picture quality and is oh-so theateresque . I am praying that it will outlast the extended warranty. Let's have a moment of silence...hmmmmm....I feel better!!

My prayer is that you all experienced a truly blessed week. Happy Holidays!!
Brandi