The Leyva Life

I {HEART} Valentine's Day!!

2012-02-14T21:33:00.003-06:00

So I am pretty sure that with Christmas as my #1 favorite holiday Valentine's Day comes in Second...oh wait, then there is Easter...hmmmm. Anyway, I love Valentine's Day and always have. My most vivid memory of Valentine's day is coming home from school and mom had little gifts for us sitting at our places at the table. Something so fun about that.

I have been trying to make it a fun event for our girls as well. We filled out their Valentines for their friends at school and they were so excited to take them. I also went all matchy matchy with their outfit for today too. (mostly cuz it was easy!) And when I came home I brought them all a new my little pony to play with. Small simple and cheap! :)

I asked Lexi at dinner what Valentine's day meant to her and she said, "that I love Jesus and he loves us." Yes I melted. What joy!

So here are my girls wishing you a Happy Valentine's Day!

Wisdom Shared During the Golden Globes

2012-01-15T22:56:00.004-06:00

We had the Golden Globes on tonight since all the football games were over. I have a thing for seeing celebs in their real roles. I like to see if they are awkward, or quirky, graceful, or silly. I like to see the person behind the character. Anyway we were watching the many cheesy jokes and sappy acceptance speeches.

Lexi clued in to the show and just watched for a minute. Someone with a yellow dress came on. I did not recognize her, but it was a modest dress and it was beautiful. Lexi said, "oh that yellow dress is beautiful! you know mommy it doesn't show her belly or her chest." Next Tina Fey and Jane Lynch came out. Tina wearing a beautiful red dress and Jane in a beautiful black dress. Jane's dress was cut very low and Tina's was a typical strapless ball gown. Lexi says why does that black dress have a hole in it? I said do you mean why does it come so low? She said yeah, I don't like that, but her red dress is beautiful! I am so proud that she is starting to get that modest is beautiful and that is what we want to be. Its baby steps from the beginning...and I will make her come back and read this blog when we are picking out prom dresses 12 years from now.

Then she asked me if everyone would be getting a trophy. I told her no, not everyone wins. Some take home a trophy and some just get to be there to celebrate the winners. A lesson that many these days don't quite understand.

Then when Octavia Spenser won her Globe for "The Help" and they showed Melissa McCarthy crying, Lexi asked if she was crying because she did not win. I told her no, she is crying because she is so happy for her friend that won. I explained to her that sometimes we are so happy we can't help but cry.

Who knew that we would get to cover such fundamental and important life lessons while watching the Golden Globes. Mommas and Daddies always be ready for the teachable moments. They are little chances to teach our little ones. Sometimes they are encouraging moments where you realize that they are catching what you are teaching and other times it is just to reinforce a core belief within them.

New Year, New Job, New Blog

2012-01-06T21:44:00.003-06:00

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Here at the Leyva home we are living it up Leyva style. We are jumping into 2012 with zest!! Or we are just crazy? No seriously, this first week of twenty twelve has been not a normal week. Rabu is hosting the Memorial Shootout Basketball Tournament that he does for the area Jr. High basketball teams. What this means for us is that he is not at home Tuesday - Sunday this week. It's "girls nights" all week long! Us Leyva girls call daddy's game nights "girls nights" to make them more fun! As if that was not enough to make this little momma exhausted I started my new job last Friday and this was my first week. How's that for kickin' in the New Year. Oh, you didn't know I got a new job? Oh well keep reading I will tell you what I learned through the decision process.

HAPPY NEW JOB!

This past October I found myself in a quandary. I had a job offer from a very good firm with some different opportunities for me. I had a choice to make. Do I stay at my current job that is a good job at a great firm with wonderful people or do I take the risk for the potential of the new job and what it could be. It's a win win for me. I end up with a good job either way! What a blessing! Even though the two job quandary was a blessing it was definitely a fork in the road. A big one! You know in the movies when you see a fork in the road it's pretty clear witch way you should go. One way is dark, scary and they play creepy music when they pan over to it. Then the other way is sunshine, birds singing and clear skies!! Yeah, this was not that clear. It was all sunshine and birds singing on both paths. Thank God for opportunity but a girl has to make a decision.

At a time like this we tend to look for anything and anyone to give us a sign, a word from God, anything to make the decision for us. I found myself responding that way. I talked to some people that I respect in my profession and they said you will make the right choice for you and your family. I talked to a spiritual mentor of mine and she said, " you hear God, you will know what to do." I talked to Rabu and he said, "I have no doubt you will make the right choice. Whatever it is, I am behind you." Are you noticing a trend here? NO ONE would make the decision for me!

So I did what us type A logical puzzle solvers do...I thought about it...talked about it...obsessed over it. All while trying to "figure out what to do". You know there are times in life where you don't get to "figure it out". This was one of those times. God in His sweet way was once again calling me to Himself. God has ways of working in our lives and our situations to create opportunity for relationship with Him. One thing I strongly believe is that in all of God's plans for humankind the original plan still stands true...Relationship. That is all he wants with us. To love us and us love Him in return. Simple really. We make it so complicated.

So, I talked to God and nothing. He is just teasing me now isn't He? So I talked with Him again and nope not a thing. The problem was I was still looking for a sign, a Word through someone, anyone else. It's like talking to your father and looking to your mother for the answer...that makes no sense. You are not building relationship with your father if you are only listening to your mother. Same applies here, it's hard to build relationship with God when you do not listen for His voice. Finally, with focus on God, I heard Him. When I say I heard Him, I do not mean an actual audible voice or even through the Bible. It wasn't even the "still small voice" you hear people talk about. It was Peace. Sometimes Peace about something speaks louder than any "mighty Word from the Lord" or catchy quote on pinterest. Although I do believe God can use either of those. Personally He took me to Peace; Peace to my core. I would take the new job.

I would love to say that it was easy from there. Oh no. As I told one of the people at my previous job, "don't ever leave, it is so much harder than staying!" I had to go tell a group of people that I have grown to care for, friends, and people I highly respect that even though they have been so good to me and have offered me great opportunity I was going to leave and accept another job. Now that folks, is hard!! They made efforts to keep me and when they realized that I had made up my mind they showered appreciation on me. All the love made me second guess. Am I making the right decision? I don't even know but three of the the people at the other firm. What if they are crazy!! Then came the Holy Spirit to remind me of the Peace. Oh yes, that is right, whew; now I am centered again.

The see-saw of doubt and peace went on for almost a month. I worked out my two weeks notice handing off clients and projects to others. Then I took off two weeks for the Christmas holiday. The whole time saying to myself and Rabu, "I hope I did not make a huge mistake. " Even the morning of my first day I was nervous and excited. The thought kept going through my mind, oh I hope this is right. Then God interrupted my thoughts with a simple and slightly exasperated, "will you just let me show myself faithful?"

I simply said, "Yes, please show yourself faithful." From that moment the Peace became more than just a remembrance of a moment. It stuck with me. You see, it went from me having a peace but feeling like I have to go do it to having a peace and letting God do it through me. All He needs us to do is seek Him and obey. He does the rest. He has wired me for this job. He has timed it for now. I just have to go be who He has created me to be and He will show Himself faithful!!

So after the first week I have nothing but excitement for what is to come with the career that God has given me and where I get to do that now. He has already begun to show Himself faithful...oh me of little faith.

HAPPY NEW BLOG!!!

OK so maybe the blog is not completely new, but the fact that I have not blogged since our anniversary in July might make it new. Seeing as though I have not posted anything about Lexi's 4th birthday, Sadie's 1st birthday, Thanksgiving or Christmas, saying I am behind is an understatement...but if you have been following this blog for any length of time you know what I am about to say...

This blog is an outlet not an obligation...guilt gone!! :o)

So happy new year, happy new job, and happy new blog (kinda)

Ten Years

2011-07-21T22:49:00.005-05:00

Ok, just love that my 100th post is about celebrating ten years of marriage to my best friend, Rabu Leyva. Ten years ago today we said, "I do." Today, i say it all over again. Rabu Leyva, I DO! I love you, I love our life, I love being your friend and your wife. (seriously did not mean to be a poet today).

Here are a few pictures from our wedding day July 21,2001.

Sadie ~ 8 Months

2011-07-10T23:05:00.004-05:00

Sadie is 8 months!! Our little smooga-booga is getting so big. Today she crawled!!I am still kinda in shock at how quickly this is going. I mean really you would think by the third one I would get used to how quickly they grow and change...but nope! NOT USED TO IT!!!

Sadie is exploring her world and is fully mobile. It may take her a little while to wiggle her way to what she has her eye on, but she is determined to get there. She has just today started to crawl forward just a bit. All month she was going in reverse. Watch out it is about to get interesting around here.

So much action and adventure with our three little girls. What JOY!! Sadie you are using your words like momma and dada to make us smile. You are amazing and we are so glad God sent you to our not so little anymore family.

Here are a few of her 8 month pics that we took in the blazing heat! (don't ya just love summers in Oklahoma?)

Sadie is like...um...this is my photo op!

blessed....so so blessed

Happy Father's Day Rabu Leyva!

2011-06-17T22:48:00.007-05:00

Rabu you are the BEST daddy to these girls. They love you so much! You are exactly what we need for our family! You make us laugh, you make our family fun, and you cover us as a father should. Thank you for being an amazing man, a wonderful example to your daughters and the best daddy I could ever wish for to our children. We love you, happy father's day!

Paisley, Paisley Bo Baisley

2011-06-17T22:42:00.002-05:00

Just a few pics of Paisley Poo while we were grillin' dinner...she was lookin' so stinkin' cute I had to capture a few shots...enjoy!

Sadie 7 Months

2011-06-17T22:31:00.003-05:00

At seven months Sadie is a professional sitter and making good progress at rolling around to change her surroundings. She is curious about everything. If something is in reach her hands are on it! She is such a happy kid, content to watch and laugh at her family. She has now mastered the art of saying "da da" and "ma ma". Unfortunately, as with the other girls, "da da" came first. "Ma ma" was not too far behind though. She gives pretty good snuggles. My favorite time with her is the couple minutes that I get to cuddle with her before she goes to sleep at night. She is just full enough from her last bottle and sleepy enough that she will lay her little head down and cuddle with mommy as I pray over her. Love those sweet moments. We love you Sadie dear.

conversations with Lexi about secrets and rainbows

2011-06-02T21:56:00.004-05:00

Secrets

Lexi was wanting to keep something a secret from daddy, so daddy tells her, "baby, we don't have secrets with family." Later that day Rabu was leaving to go somewhere and he says to Lexi, I will bring you back a surprise. Lexi asked what the surprise was and he said, "I can't tell you." She sweetly responds, "no secrets daddy." You never really know what is going to stick, this apparently did.

RAINBOWS

Tonight Lexi was coloring and she says, "Mommy I am going to color a rainbow." To which I said, "that sounds great baby it will be so pretty." After a pause she says, "I am going to go over the rainbow, mommy can you take me over the rainbow?" While I was trying to figure out my response to such a wonderful request she says,"I want to slide down the rainbow."

That sounds wonderful baby, I sure wish I could take you over the rainbow and slide down with you.

Childhood is so magical and simple, why does life get so complicated?

Proud of my Little Dancer

2011-05-21T21:26:00.005-05:00

Today was Lexi's first dance recital. She has been taking dance with Tippi Toes since last August. She has really enjoyed her dance class and loves doing the dances for us. So we bought the costume and dance shoes for her recital.

Today we were getting dressed for the recital and BOOM...total. melt. down. "Mommy, I don't want to go to my 'cital. I don't want to dance. I don't want to be cute." Oh ok... breathe Kyna, what do we do...

option one...go all "toddlers in tiaras" on her and make her do it tears and all....
option two...calm her down and with my best negotiating skills talk her into performing...
option three...let daddy handle it.

Option one...Um No, not my style.
Option two...this did not work...I needed a professional negotiator to get her to budge
Option three... ah yes...daddy to the rescue.

He took Lexi over to her staging area with all the other girls from her dance class. Tried his best to get her to dance. The recital started and I did not see them. I did not know if she was going to dance or not. Then her group came out. No Lexi...sigh...oh well.

Later Lexi and Daddy came bopping out from behind stage and Lexi looked so happy. Come to find out she and Daddy had been handing candy out to the dancers as they came off stage and telling them good job. She was happy as a clam just celebrating those who danced, she had no need to dance herself. Rabu said it was such a joy to watch her celebrating her friends. Better than watching her do any dance. I could not be more proud!

Love you Lexi our little dancer-encourager :)

-

Sadie G ~ 6 months

2011-05-09T21:59:00.003-05:00

Our sweet Sadie Giovanna is 6 months old today! A whole half year old! It seriously is going by SUPER fast! The sweet girl is now sitting on her own for short periods of time. She laughs hysterically at her sisters. She is completely enjoying the wonderful world of solid foods. She has had the joy of having avocado, banana, and sweet potato along with the regular rice cereal. The girl can eat! She has kept her calm chill-axin demeanor. She is just glad to be along for the ride.

Happy Half Birthday Sweet Girl!

Survival and Meals

2011-04-29T22:20:00.006-05:00

We did it!! We survived basketball season and tax season!!! Can I hear an amen! We could not have made it through without the support of many dear to our family. To all of you, thank you for your help and sacrifice. It has been a crazy couple of months, but we are slowly emerging from the craziness to find our normal life again.

Part of finding our normal life again is meal planning. I did pretty good sticking to a meal plan through busy season until the last couple of weeks. Survival...that was the goal! I am heading to the grocery stores in the morning and here is what is on the menu for the Leyvas this week.

Saturday: Chicken Ropa Vieja with fiesta rice (skinnytaste.com)

Sunday: Golden Chicken and Potatoes (myrecipes.com)

Monday: Chicken Enchiladas (skinnytaste.com)

Tuesday: FFYS (fend for yourself, in my case fend for yourself and three little ones too!)

Wednesday: Spicy Shrimp Fried Rice (skinnytaste.com)

Thursday: Beef and snow peas (the pioneerwoman.com)

Friday: Pork Carnitas with avocado, rice and black beans (skinnytaste.com)

I will be saving part of the Chicken Ropa Vieja to fill the chicken enchiladas for Monday. I will prep the enchiladas on Sunday and refrigerate so that all I have to do on Monday is put them in the oven to heat up.

Another thing that is great about all these meals are that they are "lower point" meals. With busy season over, I no longer have an excuse to not lose this baby weight. Hello waggon, nice to see you again, may I jump aboard! I am doing weight watchers and a weight loss challenge at work. I am trying to make sure we are making lifestyle changes, and not do a diet.

So here's to God helping us through the busiest season of our year!

I have yet to reclaim my home completely, but like I said we are emerging SLOWLY! :)

Brainwashing?

2011-04-17T22:19:00.002-05:00

Brainwashing? No.... it is what the pros call "product placement" ;o)

HOOK 'EM HORNS

Sadie 5 Months

2011-04-17T22:02:00.005-05:00

Sweet Sadie G - she is now 5 months and too much fun. She smiles all the time except when I am trying to take her picture...ugh. But here are a few pictures of her sweet face. Happy 5 months sweet girl.

Proof the girl will smile! This was her first bath with big sisters. As you can see she loved being in the bathtub with the big girls and the big girls were a "huge help" ;o)

Paisley turns Two!

2011-03-27T22:51:00.003-05:00

We had a wonderful, quaint party for our special girl today. The original plan was to have the party at the park since our home was not really guest ready. (I have been a little busy with some tax returns.) Oklahoma weather did not cooperate. It was 40 degrees today so we moved to plan B. Thanks to Grandma and Pa Pa, we got the house straightened up enough to have the party at our home. It was wonderful just the same! The Tahlequah girl cousins came to celebrate as well as our sweet friend Laney. The girls had a fun time playing and eating cake!

THE BIRTHDAY GIRL

LEXI MADE SURE EVERYONE HAD PARTY HATS

COUSINS (Paisley, Lexi, Adalynn, and Annalee)

NOT SURE ABOUT THE CANDLE - JUST WANTS TO EAT THE CAKE

PAISLEY, LEXI, LANEY, AND ADALYNN

being oh so patient and waiting for Elmo cup cakes

PAISLEY HAD PLENTY OF HELP OPENING HER PRESENTS

MY BEAUTIFUL BABY GIRL IS TWO!

BIG SISTER "READING" PAISLEY HER NEW BOOK

Yes, Lexi is wearing pjs. She is a jammies girl. The moment we get home she wants to put her jammies on. So she said, "well Mommy since we are not going to the park then I can wear my jammies to the party." We chose our battles today...this was not one of them. Sure hunny wear your jammies...I wish I had mine on too!

Sadie starts Solid food!

2011-03-27T22:41:00.003-05:00

Well if you consider rice cereal solid food...

Now that Sadie is 4 months old she gets to eat rice cereal. She was so ready for it. Here are a few pictures of her first cereal meal. Pictures taken by the wonderful photographer, big sister Lexi Leyva.

~The first bites...she caught on quick. Yummm~

~MOM... stop taking pictures and feed me~

~Lexi wanted to make sure and capture our home during busy season... socks, shoes, blocks, blankies and oh yes...Dave Ramsey ~

~That was yummy but still hungry momma!~

Sadie 3 & 4 months

2011-03-13T23:40:00.002-05:00

Sadie is the most perfect addition to our family!! She is such a wonderful baby. She smiles and uses her voice all the time. She adores her sisters and loves watching them play. Sadie we could not imagine our lives with out you. We love you! Happy 3 & 4 month birthdays! :)

What's for Dinner

2011-02-12T16:35:00.002-06:00

OK, folks its the two months of the year where I just may fall off the map. We will see. Rabu has basketball season wrapping up with playoffs and I am in the middle of tax season. Not to mention we have three beautiful girls that we are trying to be good parents to. So if I don't return a text or a phone call or email, please do not take it personally, you probably just got trumped by making dinner for my family, doing a tax return, or cheering on my favorite coach.

I wanted to share the meal plan for the week. I have linked to Gina's site before but thanks to her I now have a weeks worth of meals that I am excited to make.

Here we go:

Sunday : Slow Cooked Sweet Barbacoa Pork
Monday: Turkey Chili Taco Soup
Tuesday: Chicken Pot Pie Soup
Wednesday: Pork Chops w/ Mushrooms
Thursday: Santa Fe Chicken
Friday: Leftovers
Saturday: Frozen Pizza or something like that

Lets see how this goes...

Its only two months...we can do this!

Snow Day

2011-01-20T22:42:00.005-06:00

Today was a snow day. Rabu got to stay home from school and his basketball game was cancelled so it was family time all day long!! Lexi has been talking about building a snowman since it snowed last time so she could not wait to get out there and build one. We bundled up and went out to do just that. Here are some of the pics from our day.

They made a really big snow ball

Then Lexi threw it at Daddy!

Then to build the snowman.

I could not get a picture of the finished product because as soon as we were done she kicked it over and starting stomping on it in absolute delight!

Poor Snowman

and she kept stomping and stomping!

Dreamy Enchiladas

2011-01-20T10:39:00.004-06:00

Disclaimer: I have not met many enchiladas that i didn't like, so my opinion could be a bit bias.

I made these Chicken Enchiladas from Gina's Skinny taste blog, and oh my goodness!! They are so good. I was literally in Mexican food heaven! The chicken was so moist and flavorful. One of my complaints with chicken enchiladas is that the chicken tends to be dry. That is definitely not the case with these!! I seriously could write a book on how good these are! So since I do not have the time nor do I want my first book to be about chicken enchiladas, you will just have to try them for yourself!

Next time I will take it easy on the chipotle peppers because they were too spicy for the girls to enjoy, but man Rabu and I will be fighting over the leftovers today. Really easy since I did as she suggested and did crock pot chicken on Monday so my shredded chicken and homemade chicken broth were already done and ready!

Enjoy!

Tasty food that makes you Skinny!!

2011-01-18T22:21:00.004-06:00

Found this great new blog that I am following! Great recipes that are healthy and look so yummy. I will be trying several of Gina's recipes this week. Thought I would share the great find.

http://www.skinnytaste.com/

Oh and I would like to give a shout out to my friend Becca, she kept telling me how awesome Aldi is and I finally went... why did I doubt her! What a great way to save on the grocery budget! Thanks Becca!!

Sadie 2 Months Old

2011-01-10T09:25:00.009-06:00

Let's Sing, Let's Dance

2011-01-08T22:40:00.002-06:00

Big girl Lexi Lou has been taking dance lessons at her school this year and is loving it. She will ask at least twice a week, " do I have dance class today". She loves showing us her dances that she has learned. At the end of the semester the parents were allowed to come and watch a lesson. So Sadie and I went and saw Lexi dance, here are a few pics.

Lexi loves showing off her new baby sister

Little miss priss

This year Lexi also was old enough to be in our church christmas program. She and her class sang Jingle bells. Lexi did a good job considering that 5 min before she told her teacher she was not going to do it! Ha ha... she looks like such a big girl.

Lexi's shirt was done by my friend Terra check out her website she has such cute stuff

http://www.tickledsewpink.com/

Sadie 1 Month Old

2011-01-08T22:35:00.002-06:00

Sadie at one month old.

Sadie Giovanna Leyva

2010-12-17T23:45:00.003-06:00

Sadie Giovanna Leyva

Born November 9, 2010 at 1:26 pm

9 lbs 4 oz, 20 inches

Welcome sweet Sadie your family is so excited you have joined us!!

Well, I will say that when you have a scheduled C-Section the "birth story" does lack some drama...but when they tell you your wrong scheduled time...now that makes it more interesting! I was told to be at the hospital at 9:30 am because I was scheduled for an 11:30 delivery. I thought it was a little strange that it was at eleven since they try to get the scheduled operations out of the way first thing in the morning. So Rabu and I get up and have a fairly leisurely morning. We are on our way out the door and about to take the last preggo picture and Rabu's phone rings. It's for me. It's the hospital wondering where we are. Apparently I am scheduled to go into surgery at 9:30. I told the sweet lady on the phone that i was told to be there at 9:30 and we are on our way. Now if this was my first baby I think this would have freaked me out. Since this was my third time to the circus I quickly realized it wasn't too big of a deal, it wasn't my fault and we would get there when we get there. So we took the picture and headed to the hospital.

When we got there, I checked in and they immediately took me back to prep me for surgery. Two nurses were working like the wind to get me ready in time. Of course we were not ready by my scheduled time so we waited, and waited, and waited. Just waiting for Dr. Blackstock to finish her other surgeries and for an OR to open up. Finally at 12:00 they said it would be any minute now...so about 1:00 they took me to deliver! Yay!!!

They took me to the same room that Lexi was delivered in. Gave me my spinal block and then before I knew it they were bringing Rabu in and were really close to delivering our sweet baby girl. It did not seem to take long and I heard Sadie cry... she was so good to mommy that she cried as soon as she was delivered. I got to get a quick peek at her then they took her away to weigh her and bundle her up. Rabu brought her back to me and I got to see her sweet little face. We still were not sure of her name so we just called her baby girl.

God was so good an gave us a large post-partum room and once we got settled we had the girls Godparents bring Lexi and Paisley up to meet their new little sister. By this point Rabu and I had discussed a few names and had decided on Sadie but still did not tell anyone until we talked to Lexi about it. She had been adamant through the who pregnancy that the baby would come out and tell us what her name is. So when Lexi got there I asked her if she wanted to ask the baby her name. She said no, but that I should. So I asked the baby her name and told Lexi that she said Sadie and asked Lexi what she thought about that. The biggest brightest smile went across Lexi's face and she said yeah that's good. So Sadie was named, well kinda. We still did not have a middle name. We decided on Giovanna because it was a name that Rabu really liked but never seemed to fit any of our girls for a first name. Sadie means "Princess" and Giovanna means "God is Gracious".

Sadie is the most amazing baby ever!!! The first night we were home she slept for four hours woke up to eat quickly and went right back to sleep for another four hours. AWESOME! She has continued to be a fantastic sleeper. I am so thankful.

Her first smile was when she was looking at her big sister Lexi. She coos and smiles nonstop when you make eye contact with her. She has such a sweet spirit about her... I cannot wait to see her little personality.

The girls are adjusting well to having baby sister around. They love her and love holding her. These girls are more of a blessing than I ever thought possible. God is so Good!

Ready to go home

Headed Home

Meeting Sadie for the first time

Maternity Pictures

2010-12-17T23:28:00.002-06:00

Our family was blessed with the opportunity to get a free photography session with Jill Solomon Photography. She was in need of a woman "great with child" and her family for some happy maternity pictures for her website. I dont know if she got what she needed but we sure did. Look at these great pictures!

Blogging Teaser

2010-12-10T23:20:00.004-06:00

Ok so I am soooo behind on blogging....lets see....I can think of several things that have happened that should be chronicled here in cyber land for you all to read... so stay tuned...Kyna is making a come back but it probably won't be until next week. :) So I give you the weekend to wait in absolute excitement for what I may or may not post next week. Here is a sneak peak...

what???? did you think I was going to show you the really cute pictures...nope not until next week.

Baby Leyva #3 Update

2010-07-30T22:26:00.002-05:00

So I guess I don't have as much time to blog about this pregnancy due to the fact I have two wonderful kiddos to tend to and not as much time to type out my thoughts and feelings on the pregnancy. Oh well...again back to the purpose of my blog...its an outlet, not an obligation. Ahhhh ... guilt gone!

Anyway, this pregnancy has been going pretty great! I am now 25 weeks along. We were thrilled to find out that we are having our third girl. Now we have to come up with a name...sigh...are there any more cute ones left! I am sure there are several we just have to find the right one.

Since our home is fairly small, we are going to have to do some re-arranging to make room for baby girl. She will at first be with us in our room in the bassinet, then we will transition Paisley to share a room with Lexi and then baby girl will take over Paisley's room. It will be interesting to see how every ones sleeping habits effect one another.

As far as I have been feeling in this pregnancy:

First Trimester - EXHAUSTED!

But no morning sickness so I count my blessings! My dear friends that have to deal with non-stop nausea, my heart goes out to you!

Second Trimester- Energy, Energy, EXHAUSTED!

I seem to have fallen into a pattern of two great days with tons of energy then one day of exhaustion. I will take energy when I can!

Lexi has been much more aware of this baby in mommy's belly. She will every once in a while unprompted come over to my belly and say, "hi baby, i love you" and give my belly kisses, then look at me with the sweetest little face. Yep she is an awesome big sister.

Paisley on the other hand still does not grasp the concept...she is 15 months old, what do you expect. She points to her belly and says baby...so I am thinking she is a little confused on what is a belly and what is a baby. Oh her world will be rocked soon enough.

Rabu and I have fun talking about our life with our three girls. He dreams of an all-star basketball team. I think of fun girl nights staying up late talking about life's issues and laughing so hard it hurts.

The blessing of children, I had no idea it would be this great!

Lexi is Three!!

2010-07-28T20:45:00.006-05:00

So how did my little Lexi Bear go from this:

To this:

in no time flat! Obviously it has been three years, but people were not joking when they said, "time is going to fly". It seriously has. Lexi is such an amazing kid. She is very thoughtful and contemplative. She is silly and loves to play. Her favorite games to play right now are tag, hide and seek and ring around the rosies. She is a fantastic big sister and is going to be a great role model for her two little sisters. Her favorite book is her "Jesus", known by most as the Bible. And to prove that she is "all grown up", just in the last week she has switched from calling Rabu and I daddy and mommy to simply, dad and mom...that is unless she really wants something then we are mommy and daddy again. :o)

Happy birthday Lexi! Your mommy and daddy are so proud to be your parents and we love you so much!

Here are a few pictures from her third birthday bash. We went with some friends to the pool at Camp Loughridge. It was a fantastic time. Even Pa Pa and Mi Mi Leyva made it from Florida for the celebration, that was a special treat. Although they seemed to escape being in any pictures :( we appreciate them making the trip.

Lexi specifically asked for pink party hats, cake and candles. I was happy to do as the birthday princess asked. We had a fun princess party complete with cupcakes and pink candles.

Lexi, her friend Emily and Daddy playing at the splash pad

water in the eyes...not much fun

mom, don't bother me, I am eating my cupcake!

Yay! Markers!!

Aunt Lea and cousins Annalee and Adalynn came to celebrate!

Hangin in the pool with turtle.

My Not-So-Bikini Day

2010-06-09T15:55:00.001-05:00

A friend posted this link to a really great article...I had to share... here's to all the mommas out there who are beautiful in their post baby bodies!! Walk proud my friends!

Lexi and Paisley Spring Pictures

2010-05-01T21:28:00.005-05:00

Here are some of the cutest girls you will ever see!! I am a little biased, but I should be I am their mom!! We had a photo shoot today at our trusty Target. They came out great!

Yep! Pregnant AGAIN!!!

2010-04-30T21:27:00.004-05:00

he he he...no need to break it to you easy right!! You should get the same opportunity to be as surprised as Rabu and I was when we found out! So here is the skinny---

It was busy season and you know I was kinda too busy to count some really important days and I kept thinking man I should have my cycle soon... oh well maybe tomorrow...well....this went on for a couple of days. One thing that I can be thankful for is that God made my body like clock work...my cycles are never "late" without reason. So finally Rabu said, "just get a test and find out already!" So on the way home from work the next day (march 9) i stopped at my favorite Walgreen's...its the Walgreen's that I have purchased all my pregnancy tests. Then headed to pick up the girls from school.

We got home, Rabu had basketball games that night so it was just me and the girls. So my plan was to wait until he got home and take the test then. But come on!! So, I got the girls settled with my favorite 'moms home alone with the girls' dinner... chicken noodle soup. Then I got the urge...I needed to use the potty. Hmmmm do i take the test or do I wait....um take the test of course. I told myself that I would just take the test and then not look at the results until Rabu got home... again... seriously Kyna? Uh that is not going to happen. So used the restroom, while washing my hands I STARED at the blinking hourglass on the test waiting for the result. At this point I had spent all day wondering if I was pregnant thinking about how awesome it would be if I was and how scary it would be if I was...so many mixed feelings. Paisley was not even one yet! So I was starting to get excited about the idea of being pregnant that I thought I would be disappointed if I wasn't. So it seemed like I washed my hands FOREVER!! Then it happened...Pregnant! Yep that is what it said. I just laughed to myself and said...are you kidding me!

I smiled, my stomach had a billion butterflies in it, and i had a mixture of "holy moley" and "I am so excited" going through my mind! Then I looked in the mirror and said gotta pull it together you have two girls to take care of out there...get out there and focus on them! So I did, we had a great night!! Girls and I played and played.

So I could not wait for Rabu to get home. Of course this would be the night that BOTH of his games went into overtime so he got home about an hour later than normal. I heard the garage door going up and knew he would be walking through the doors any minute...I still did not know how I was going to tell him. Something cute, just strait out, make him wonder...nothing. I literally ran to the bathroom got the test and then walked in circles for a second trying to figure out what to do. Then I sat on the couch and hid the test under my blanket. He walked in and asked...well did you take the test? I just handed it to him, not really looking at him or giving him any clue as to what it said. He looked at it and said, are you serious! Well they usually don't lie!

Then we stayed up even later talking about what the next nine months would look like. The next two years would look like. And then the next 10 years!! So much to think about but we could not figure it all out in one night.

Anytime I start to get overwhelmed with the idea of three kids three and under I just remember that God gave us these blessings. I strongly believe that a baby cannot be conceived without God breathing life, so I have no doubt this is His will and His plan. I just say...alright...here we go!!

I am now 12 weeks along. Due November 12. I personally am hoping its a boy, Rabu doesn't have a preference. I have no doubt, boy or girl that I love this little one so much already!

(photo courtesy of Artworks Photography Tulsa taken when 8 mo pregnant with Paisley)

Paisley is One!!

2010-03-29T22:14:00.005-05:00

Our sweet Paisley turned one last Wednesday. We had a fun birthday party with family and friends on Saturday. It was so fun watching her eat her cake and open presents. Lexi especially loved having a party for Paisley.

It is so incredibly crazy how quickly the time passes. Paisley is such a fun, happy, silly and sweet little girl. We are so excited to see what God has for her and watch her grow into that person. Happy birthday baby girl, we love you soooo much!!! XOXO

YAY ITS MY BIRTHDAY!!

THE CAKE "BEFORE" - thank you Merrit's!

THE CAKE "AFTER"

YUMMY CAKE!

BIG SISTER LEXI HELPED OPEN PRESENTS, LEXI IS THE BESTEST BIG SISTER EVER!!

Paisley Noelle ~ Nine Months

2009-12-25T22:42:00.005-06:00

Our sweet Paisley is now 9 months old. She is getting so big and SO BUSY!! She crawls everywhere and is super fast. She is not afraid of anything! She wants to be anywhere that big sister Lexi is and playing with whatever big sis is playing with. Paisley is such a sweet cuddler too. She will just put her sweet little head down on your shoulder and smile. She is a funny girl, I am excited for the next three months, they change so much in the first two years it is crazy! I would not be surprised if she is walking soon, she is already pulling herself up and cruising a little bit. She has great motivation to keep up with Lexi. And for those of you wondering please notice the curls in the picture, yes her hair will be curly, I am thinking very curly, just like Lexi's. Only time will tell. We love you sweet Paisley, our lives would not be as sweet with out you. God thank you for the blessing you gave us in Paisley!

A few pictures for your viewing pleasure:

Paisley pulling herself up for the first time

Sweet girl with her daddy

I just love kissing that sweet face!

Merry Christmas!

Love you Baby Girl!!

Ok so reading through this before I post I noticed that I used the word sweet a lot...I tried to think of another word as to not be redundant, but that is just what she is...sweet. :)

Christmas Train

2009-12-25T22:18:00.006-06:00

I have wanted to go out to Dry Gulch for the Christmas Train for many years now, it is amazing what you will get out and do when you have kids. So this year was the year, we took the trek out to Adair, OK to ride the Christmas Train. It is really a cool set up that they have out there. It is very theme parky, set in the Old West. Grandma and Pa Pa joined us for the fun. We rode the old steam train first. You ride it around the camp and it tells the story of Christ from Creation to Jesus raising from the dead. Lexi really liked the train. After the train you go into a theatre and watch a short video with Willie George telling you more about salvation and then leading in the salvation prayer. The coolest thing happened. Lexi was really squirmy through the whole video like a two year old would be and then as soon as Pastor George began to pray the prayer of salvation Lexi stopped and stared. It was like her little spirit was listening and God had began tugging on her heart to call her to Himself. A journey that I am excited to watch her experience, and then one day ask Jesus to be Lord of her life. What a sweet, sweet moment for this Momma.

After the train ride we walked around the streets of the "town" and Lexi kept saying she wanted to ride the train again...the ticket was only good for one ride so we moved on. We then took her over to the carousel. She rode that several times so she got to ride several of the animals they had on the carousel. I believe she rode a giraffe, tiger, chicken and then finally she got to ride the white puppy with black spots. Pa Pa, Daddy and I took turns riding with her. Mom and I got to stroll through the general store, it had very cute Christmas stuff. When it was time to go there were many protests from Lexi saying that she did not want to leave but that she wanted to ride the train...looks like we will be going back next year.

Christmas Pictures 2009

2009-12-19T23:34:00.000-06:00

Three Little Piggies

2009-12-19T23:14:00.003-06:00

Last week I took the girls to get winter pajamas and Lexi picked out some all by her self. She has wanted to wear them every night for the last week. I have already washed them twice so that she can keep wearing them. Thank God it was pajama day on Friday at her school so she could finally wear them to school like she had wanted to all week long. Here are the three little piggies:

This little piggie is CUTE

This little piggie is FLYING

this little piggie is DANCING

Christmas Ornaments 2009

2009-12-19T22:40:00.005-06:00

So each year I am getting the girls an ornament that symbolizes the year, eventually they will be old enough to help pick it out and document why so that it will be a cool thing to have and to think back over the years as we decorate the tree. Here are the picks for this year.

Lexi's ornament is a Dora the Explorer holding a star. The reason I picked this one is because Dora was hands down her favorite show this year, she wanted to watch Dora all the time. The star also has some significance, Lexi sings Twinkle Twinkle little Star all the time. So I thought this was a good find.

Paisley's ornament has a very cute pink and green stocking, much similar to the stocking that she has at Pa Pa and Grandma's house. Paisley's room is also decorated in pink and green. I found this ornament on Etsy.com it is done by a very talented lady, and I just love, love, love it!

The lady who sells these will also personalize for free and she put Paisley's name and the year on the back of the ornament. I thought it was just perfect for her Baby's First Christmas ornament.

Dancing Trees

2009-12-19T22:20:00.003-06:00

The Saturday after Thanksgiving we went to Rhema Lights. Lexi loved looking at all the lights and particularly liked the "dancing trees". They have some of their lights set to blink to the music. Lexi could have watched that all night long, in fact she protested very strongly with a royal fit when it was time to leave. Ever since, she keeps asking to go see the Christmas trees. I think she liked it folks. Paisley on the other hand was sleepy so, she slept through the whole thing. Maybe next year for her.

Lexi wanted to ride the horsies... I had to explain how these would be no fun to ride. bless her heart.

I love this man! He is the best!

The Dancing Trees

Rabu and Grandma

Thanksgiving

2009-12-19T21:59:00.005-06:00

yeah, yeah I know Thanksgiving was a month ago, but hey better late than never right?

So we had a fantastic Thanksgiving. Grandma Rhonda came up from Texas and spent some very fun days with us. She also joined us in Tahlequah at Grandma Gail and Pa Pa's house. The siblings came with their kiddos too and we had a blast playing and chasing and eating and being family. Here are a few pictures from our day.

Paisley & Pa Pa

Lexi reading a book with Grandma and Grandma...yeah that got a little confusing :) but what a wonderful "problem" to have.

Lexi helped Pa Pa pick some peppers from their garden, here she is showing whose daughter she is and organizing them all. :)

Paisley hanging out with cousin Annalee

Cousin Annalee

Alex and Adalynn climbing the apple tree, this was 2 seconds before they told me to go get their mom, they wanted to see her "freak out" ha ha

Cousin Catherine
(cousin Aydan was having so much fun running around I did not get a picture of him, run and enjoy little guy!)

The siblings... nathan, lea, and kyna

I LOVE MY FAMILY!!

Where have I been?

2009-12-09T13:25:00.002-06:00

OK so that title is two fold... I have not posted many things lately, I have like 3 or 4 posts that I need to do from the Thanksgiving holiday, but good things come to those who wait.

Also where have I been?...everyone has been talking about Etsy this and Etsy that. I have been "meaning" to get on there for awhile. Well my ornament search for Paisley's first Christmas ornament sent me there. And OH MY GOSH, where have I been?!?! What a wonderful collection of handmade things! www.etsy.com

So I ordered her ornament, I would show you a picture but I will save that for another post where I will show you both Lexi and Paisley's 2009 ornament and why I picked them. I can't wait until they can thoughtfully pick out their own ornaments, this is going to be a fun tradition.

So I leave you wanting more, stay tuned to the leyva life!

Big Girl

2009-12-02T21:52:00.005-06:00

Lexi picked out her first backpack. She wanted to wear it to bed. So cute!

We converted her bed to a big girl bed.

Helping mommy cook Paisley's baby food.

Our Girls

2009-11-19T22:13:00.003-06:00

Rabu and I are just amazed at how incredibly blessed we are to have two healthy, sweet, fun and beautiful girls. They are growing up so fast!! I know people told me that, but for some reason its something you don't believe until you are living it. Here is a quick update on our two precious ones:

Lexi Bear

singing "crinkle, crinkle, little star" - my favorite part is when she says "uppa buppa" for "up above the" - Twinkle, Twinkle little star never sounded so sweet

sitting on the potty when she feels like it... we have had one successful "poopy in the potty", but most of the time she just says "NO!!"

loving her little sist-ter, Paisel-ley --- so cute how she adds an extra syllable to both sister and Paisley

Likes "Jack's big music show" on Nick Jr.

she is talking soooo much, she has such a vast vocabulary

Loves her Bible, and she pretends to be reading it, it sounds much like this, " So Jesus, Jesus, So, mommy, daddy, Jesus" then she giggles.

She thinks she is a super fast runner...we will have to see about that.

Paisley

a crawling master!!

gets into everything she can get her hands on, exploring the world around her.

always wants to get Lexi's toys, and thankfully Lexi is really sweet to replace her toys with Paisley's toys so that Paisley always has something to play with.

a really good sleeper, she does not like to be rocked to sleep, she rather you just put her in bed and let her be.

LOVES her sister Lexi! She just glows when Lexi talks to her. Lexi also makes her laugh when she plays with her.

likes watching the TV so we have to keep distracting her with toys that are much better for her to play with.

likes her solid foods, she likes everything so far except for bananas and summer squash. Avocado is her favorite. She is starting to feed herself "puffs" and would eat them by the gallon if we didn't cut her off.

loves her Johnny jump up...the girl would bounce for hours if we would let her, and maybe we should so she can work off all the puffs that she eats... ha ha

Pumpkins

2009-10-18T21:38:00.005-05:00

Today our little family packed up and headed to Carmichael's Pumpkin Patch. They really have a great set up out there. They have tons of pumpkins for the kiddos to climb on and to choose from. Lots of farm animals, pony and camel rides, a corn maze, and hay ride. We spent our time climbing on the pumpkins and visiting the animals. Lexi also rode a pony, she of course loved that!

at first Lexi was not sure what to think

then she quickly caught on to how much fun it was to,
"climb, climb, climb"

Daddy got caught by a scarecrow!!!

Lexi to the rescue

Photo opp, could not get one with both of the girls looking and smiling...oh well

Lexi and Cherokee, she was such a big girl, she rode all by her self and loved every minute of it

Our little pumpkin!

Look Daddy, Chickens, ducks, turkeys and... .what is that?

Anyone know what the heck these are??? they look like deer-rabbits. Crazy!!

We had a great time. And for those of you who are looking for some inexpensive fall fun, try a pumpkin patch. This one was free admission, free petting zoo, $4 pony ride, and we spent $5 on pumpkins. Good Family Fall FUN!

Have you Smiled today?

2009-10-08T09:50:00.003-05:00

These girls make me smile everyday, I thought I would share the love. :)

Sleepy Cereal

2009-09-25T23:18:00.003-05:00

Tonight we got home from work and I made dinner super quick so that Rabu could eat before he headded off to ref a football game. Paisley was really ready to eat her dinner once I got the rest of the family fed. So we sat down to feed Paisley her cereal, which she loves. She makes the cutest faces when she is eating. My sweet little Paisley was so tired from her fun day at school that as soon as her belly started getting a little full this is what happened...I could not stop laughing:

mommy I think I am sleepy

mmmm, but this cereal is soo good

Cant. fight. the. sleep.

... zzzzzzzzzzzz ...

Paisley Noelle ~ 6 Months old

2009-09-25T22:23:00.003-05:00

OK I realize it has been a month or more since I have posted something. I cannot begin to explain how busy this last month has been, blogging was just not on the priority list. I must live by my own advice..."a blog is an outlet, not an obligation" :0)

Back to the precious point of this blog... our baby is already 6 months old! A few highlights of Paisley's 5th month:

I began to sit up on my own!

I love sitting up and playing!!

I started eating rice cereal!

YUMMY!!!

Yay Food!!

We go for her 6 month check up at the doctor on Monday and I will post her stats when we get them. We are having such a good time with our little Paisley, she is such a sweet blessing to our family.

Paisley Noelle ~ 5 Months

2009-08-25T16:29:00.004-05:00

Our sweet little Paisley is now 5 months old!! She is getting so big, she definitely is no longer looking like a new born, but like a baby. She is getting those awesome chubby legs and arms. She loves to look around, and hates to miss anything. She loves to talk to anyone that will listen. She has started saying "da-da" all the time. One day soon she will realize that Rabu is actually "da-da" and it is just not a fun thing to say. :) She also loves making "raspberries" with her lips. She is all in all a pretty noisy kid. I will tell you though she has the sweetest most kind spirit about her. Here are a few pictures of our growing girl.

So her stats at her 4 month check up were :

Weight: 15 lbs 2.5 oz (80th percentile)

Height: 25 1/4 inches (75 percentile)

as the heart melts

2009-08-18T12:30:00.003-05:00

One thing I have noticed about mommyhood is the fact that my heart has a tendency to melt daily, with these sweet baby girls. Today's melt:

We were all leaving the house. I was helping Rabu put the girls in the car, he was dropping them off today. I gave sweet Paisley a kiss and told her I loved her. Then went over to the other side of the car, played a quick game of peek-a-boo with Lexi before smothering her with kisses. Then kissed the hubby and went to get in my car. Then I heard a sweet unprompted, "I love you mommy, see you later!" Thanks Lexi Bear! I love you too, you made my day!

Here are some pics of Lexi riding a pony at a friend's birthday party a couple weeks ago, she is still talking about the horsey! She loved it! Such a big girl.

Oklahoma Sales Tax Holiday - This weekend - Includes DIAPERS!!!

2009-08-06T19:46:00.002-05:00

Oklahoma is having a sales tax holiday this weekend, August 7th -9th.

"Sales of any article of clothing or footwear designed to be worn on or about the human body and the sales price of the article is less than one hundred dollars ($100) are exempt." - Oklahoma Tax Commission Website

Also, for those mommies out there that are buying diapers, diapers are on the list!! Both disposable and cloth. Tulsa's Sales tax is 8.517% so on a $40 box of diapers that would normally be $43.41 with tax is now just $40. That is better than any diaper coupon I have ever come across. Here is a nonexclusive list of clothing that is exempt from sales tax.

Happy Shopping!!

Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

2009-08-01T21:44:00.003-05:00

This evening was just beautiful outside. Amazing weather for the 1st of August, so we decided to venture to the neighborhood park. Usually Lexi spends all her time going down the slides, and Paisley spends her time hanging out in the stroller. This was a different experience. Lexi wanted to swing, and then Paisley woke up and I put her in the swing too. It was Paisley's first time to swing at a park. She loved it, she smiled so big!! Then of course being the big girl and awesome sister that she is, Lexi wanted to push Paisley in the swing. So with Daddy closely supervising, Lexi pushed Paisley. So cute! Here are a few pictures from our trip to the park. It was a pretty perfect evening.

I hold Paisie!

2009-07-26T21:35:00.003-05:00

Today we hit a sister milestone. Lexi wanted to hold Paisley. She insisted that Paisley sit on her lap. So I sat Lexi next to me and let her hold Paisley. It was so cute. Lexi was talking to Paisley and being so sweet to her. Paisley started to fuss a little so I took her back and Lexi demanded to have her sister back! So I calmed down Paisley and gave her back to big sister. These two are going to be so much fun. I am so glad that Lexi is accepting our little Paisley. Oh sorry, Lexi would say, "not your Paisie, MY Paisie!"

(Oh and don't mind the CRAZY hair on Lexi, it was a lazy Sunday so we never got around to fixing her hair today. Thank God for Mixed Chicks that gets it back to her beautiful curly hair! )

The Card from Grandpa and Mimi

2009-07-25T08:37:00.004-05:00

The Florida Leyvas sent Lexi a card that sings for her birthday. Here is the video of when she opened it. Thank you Grandpa and Mimi.

Lexi's 2 Year Photo Session

2009-07-23T13:52:00.001-05:00

We went to the Gilcrease Museum and took some pictures of our sweet Lexi since she turns two today. Here are the proofs. You can order online if there is a picture you cannot live without. Enjoy!

Birthday Girl

2009-07-22T23:07:00.005-05:00

Lexi is two years old!!! My sweet baby girl is growing up. We had her birthday party a day early and it was such a great time. Grandma, Pa Pa, Uncle Robert, Aunt Lea and cousins, Alex, Adalynn, and Annalee came from Tahlequah. Lexi's Godfamily, Ward, Pattie, Bradley, Jackson, and Dillon also came. She was not really sure what a birthday was, but I think now she has a good idea and she likes it!

We had a Dora the Explorer birthday party. I decorated the house with Dora, Boots and Swiper. She really liked the decorations, she was sure to show Swiper to everyone as they came in the door. When we sang Happy Birthday, she pretty much looked at us like we were crazy, she was not so sure about the song...I know we are not a musical family, but a smile would not have been so hard. Ha ha When it came time to blow out the candle, (yes there was only one candle that was the shape of a number 2) she blew and it went great. She loved her Dora cupcake cake. She even snuck back later and took the last sliver of cake off the cake stand and into her mouth.

Lexi loved opening the presents, she would take them and show them to Uncle Robert after she opened each one. Maybe because he is the best at opening toy boxes. She also was very careful to pick up the wrapping paper as to not leave a mess on the floor. That's my girl! She got a tea set, books, puzzles, coloring books, colors, stickers, a baby, a purse, Finding Nemo and an adjustable Little Tykes basketball goal. She is a very blessed very loved little girl.

The box that the basketball goal came in was an instant tunnel. All the kids were crawling through it and having such a good time. A lifetime of giggles!

The kids also spent some time outside playing with the basketball goal and bubbles. Annalee is three weeks older than Lexi and the two of them have such a good time together. Here is a video of them blowing bubbles.

Lexi darling, daddy, Paisley and I love you very very much. You make our life so bright. Thank you for making us laugh daily. Thank you for your sweet hugs and unconditional love. You are a wonderful daughter and we love you SOOOOO much!! Happy Birthday baby girl!

Resa Design

2009-07-22T11:36:00.003-05:00

Attention all mommies or those buying for a mother-to-be. One of my always cool, always hip friends sells the cutest baby items you have seen! She has been featured in Pregnancy magazine as well as sold in boutiques across the US. Take a look at her Blog and also note her monthly give away. I will be purchasing one of her changing pads in green apple if I am not the big winner. :) Click here for Resa Design blog. Click here to shop Resa Design. Enjoy!

8 years

2009-07-21T09:36:00.005-05:00

Today at 2:30 pm will be the exact anniversary of when Pastor George pronounced Rabu and I man and wife! Although that was 8 years ago, I can remember it very clearly. I just remember being so happy and excited to spend the rest of my life with this amazing man, who by the grace of God loves me just the way I am. He is such a blessing to me. He sees the good in me and encourages me to be all that God has created me to be. He is always loving and understanding. He is the most amazing father. What a joy it has been to watch him with our girls, they adore him almost as much as I do. :) He has such a heart for people, especially kids. I am so thankful to God for the gift that Rabu is to our lives.

So we have recently taken the plunge and purchased iPhones, and in my justification of spending the money I said that they could be our anniversary gifts this year. Rabu agreed. But the sinker did not stick with the plan. Last night he, in his very funny tricky way, says, "So I got you a gift." I could not believe it, was he kidding, no I don't think so, well with him you can never tell...so then he asked if I wanted the gift right then. Of course I did, so he told me to close my eyes and then he came over and gave me a kiss. Aww very sweet right! But the stinker tricked me, he told me he had gotten me a gift, I felt bad for not getting him one and then he had not actually gotten a gift...I was so confused. I just laughed and told him he was silly. Well a storm came through last night around 3am that woke both of us up. We were laying there in bed wide awake listening to the storm and he said kinda giddy, "so do you want your gift now?" I just laughed, I did not know whether to take the bait again or not. So I turned on the light and he handed me a bag. It was from a local jeweler, I looked inside and there was a little box with two new charms for my bracelet. One is a heart with a jewel in it, and one is a pink and white bead. So pretty. So he got me this year!! He got me a gift and I got him nothing! And you know, I am ok with that. We are going to lunch today and then spending the night hanging out with the girls. I am a blessed woman!!

Rabu I love you, thank you for 8 wonderful and exciting years and I am excited to spend the rest of our lives together!!

Overnight

2009-07-17T22:17:00.002-05:00

OK, so no one warned me that my daughter would grow up OVERNIGHT!!! Everyone said, " oh they grow up so fast" or " its going to go so fast". NO ONE told me it would happen literally overnight! I mean go to sleep one night and then wake up the next morning and she is speaking in short sentences and talking so clearly. Lexi has just been blowing me away this week by how much she is talking, how clearly she is talking, and her fun sense of humor. She is so funny, really has some natural comedic timing. I love my little Lexi!! Oh by the way she turns two on Thursday! yep TWO!!! That is all for now...until next time, take time to enjoy the small moments of the day because it will all be different tomorrow. :)

Water Baby

2009-07-07T07:12:00.010-05:00

We had such a great 4th of July weekend. Unfortunately, Rabu was working at a fireworks stand so he was not able to have as much fun as the girls and I did, but such is life. Anyway, we went to my mom's house and hung out with the siblings and all their kids. Mom had set up these fun water features for them to play on. Lexi had a ball!!! She loved getting in the water, which is new because other times she was quite timid. So here is a video of Lexi having a great time in the water! Enjoy!

She also had a lot of fun on the slip and slide, but she did not have enough weight to keep her momentum going, that does not stop a Leyva... see how she gets along! ha ha. I actually pushed her other times going down and she liked that a lot better than her own way.

This one is a talker!!!

2009-06-30T22:35:00.003-05:00

Here is a little video of Paisley telling you about her day... notice how her eyes light up when I mention big sister Lexi. Love it!!! :)

WARNING: Sweet baby noises may melt your heart!

( Please ignore the dryer noise in the background, the Leyvas needed clean clothes!! )

Interpretation : Hi mommy what is that thing that you are always pointing at me...oh a video camera, ok well world, this is what I have to say. I played with my sister lexi, I think she is the coolest. My mom and dad rock too!! Oh ok, mom wants me to say love you, and good-bye. Until next time...watch out I have got something to say!! :)

The Leyva Girls

2009-06-30T22:09:00.003-05:00

Nothing like a sister...here are some of the cute pics of my two little ones. Lexi saw Paisley playing in her play gym and she just had to go join her.

And of course tell Paisley what every thing is. Here she is pointing to a mirror and is saying, "Paisie & Sessy". It is so cute Lexi calls herself, "Sessy" and calls Paisley "Paisie".

She is educating Paisley on all the different bugs hanging from the gym. So cute!!!

Here Lexi was set up to watch "The Lion King" and Lexi brought Paisley's bumbo over by her seat so that Paisley could sit by her and watch with her. She is really getting attached to Paisley, it is so sweet. Now there are times where we are needing to hold Paisley and Lexi says, "no hold Paisie, want to hold you mommie." She still needs to know that she is important and loved so we make sure and do all we can to reinforce that in her life. What beautiful blessings we have, I get a bit overwhelmed in a good way when I think about how wonderful these girls are and the fun we have before us as we live our lives together.

Paisley ~ 3 Months Old

2009-06-25T21:59:00.004-05:00

What??? How in the world has it already been three months since Paisley as born? She is so amazing! She has such a sweet spirit, I just love looking into her eyes and wondering what she is thinking about and who she is going to be. She is very verbal. She goos and gaas to whoever is making eye contact with her at the time. She smiles a lot! Nothing so sweet as a cooing smiling baby, even if it is 3 am. Here are some pictures of our sweet little Paisley Bear.

Father's Day

2009-06-25T21:42:00.008-05:00

This father's day was a wonderful day to celebrate, Rabu. He is the best daddy in the world. You should see the girls eyes twinkle when they see their daddy. They love him and they know that he loves them. We started the day with giving him a gift, it is a daily devotional by Coach John Wooden. He loves John Wooden. The girls and I also made him an Award that said he was the greatest daddy in the world. Then we went to church. After church we were able to get into Cheddar's for lunch. Cheddar's is one of Rabu's favorite places to eat. Then it was off to the house for a long afternoon nap. It was fantastic! We then went for a walk. It is interesting how when a mother is pushing a stroller it is simply a stroller, but when a daddy is pushing a stroller it becomes a race car. Lexi liked when daddy drove much more than when mommy drove. That is one of the beautiful things about Rabu. He can make anything fun and exciting. I love him for that.

The Friday before fathers day, Lexi's school had a Father's Day party. Rabu is the fun dad for sure. Every time he drops or picks up Lexi from school they play some sort of game with the kids. All the kids at the school, not just the ones in Lexi's class know "Lexi's Dad" is the fun dad that will give you a high five. He has such a beautiful heart for children! Here are some pictures from Lexi and Daddy's party.

Rabu we girls love you and we are blessed to have you! xoxo

Paisley Noelle ~ 8 Weeks

2009-05-19T14:00:00.004-05:00

So here is the 8 week update on our sweet little Paisley. She is getting so big! She is smiling a lot. She really lights up when Lexi talks to her, that sister bond is already showing. Last night Paisley slept until 5 am!! Yay Paisley!! Now lets just hope she continues that! :) Here are a few pictures of our little Paisley girl.

Current Loves of her life :

Daddy

Tummy Time

Bath

Smiles

Mother's Day

2009-05-19T13:37:00.006-05:00

So I am a little behind sharing about our fun Mother's Day, but better late than never right? So on Mother's Day we got up and ready for church. Right before we were about to leave Rabu and Lexi sneak down the hallway and then Lexi comes out with a bag and a silly grin. They gave me my mother's day gift, a couple charms for my bracelet. I love them! After church we stopped at Wendy's to grab some lunch before we got on the road to my mom's house for a Mother's day dinner. Lexi was so sweet, she wanted to sit by me and cuddle with me. I don't know if she even understood the day, but she was sweeter than normal giving me lots of hugs and saying those sweet little words, "mommy, mommy".

On the way to mom and dad's Lexi took off her pony tail holders and put them around her legs, she is so creative. She finally fell asleep, and it was so funny that she had the pony tail holders still on her legs.

When we got to mom and dad's we relaxed and played with the nieces and nephews. It was a great time! Paisley also gave me some great smiles for Mother's Day. What a sweet gift.

What an honor to be a mother, God is so faithful. I love my kiddos!

Paisley Noelle ~ 6 weeks

2009-05-04T22:21:00.008-05:00

Our sweet little Paisley is already 6 weeks old! It is amazing how quickly the time flies by. She is getting so much bigger. She is starting to fill out. Her little legs are starting to get that adorable baby chunk! I love chunky baby legs. She is so much more aware of what is going on around her. She is having longer awake times during the day. Thankfully her extended awake times are not during the night. She is actually getting pretty good at sleeping for at least 5 to 6 hours strait most nights. Thank God!

Notice the dimple on her cheek! Lexi has one on the opposite side! They each just have one dimple. Cute, cute, cute!

I am still on maternity leave for another six weeks. I am so thankful for being able to take 12 weeks off from work. I am having such a wonderful time getting to know my little Paisley.

Lexi is warming up to Paisley more and more every day. She will come by me when I am burping her and pat her on the back and shush her. She will also play with Paisley's hair. Today Lexi was playing with her baby doll and was rocking her, shushing her and asking her if she wanted milk. She is a good little momma!

Tickles and Take-Out

2009-05-04T21:42:00.007-05:00

Recently we had a very fun evening. It is just the simple things in life that make us laugh the most. Since Paisley was born, I have cooked some but as to be expected I do not have the energy to cook every night. One night Rabu picked up Pei Wei on the way home. I like to eat my Teriyaki Chicken Bowl with chop sticks. So of course Lexi wants to use chop sticks too. Amazingly she got the hang of them. Granted she had unconventional methods of getting the rice on the chopsticks but she used them just the same. I am so proud of my smarty pants Lexi Bear.

Oh then after she was done using them to eat, they quickly transformed into drumsticks. She and daddy had a great time "playing the drums".

After the drums we moved into the living room to play, and it soon turned into Tickle time! :) I love tickle time, we get the best giggles and laughs from tickle time.

Paisley's Dedication

2009-05-04T21:20:00.006-05:00

Paisley was dedicated on April 26th. Rabu and I believe in taking our children before the church and dedicating them to the Lord. What that means to us is that we are giving ourselves and our daughter to the Lord and dedicating us to His service. As parents we publicly proclaim that we will do whatever it takes to provide for our child and to raise her to the best of our ability to follow God. Here is the scripture that we picked for her life scripture.

Ephesians 3:16-19 (New Living Translation)
16 I pray that from his glorious, unlimited resources he will empower you with inner strength through his Spirit. 17 Then Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong. 18 And may you have the power to understand, as all God’s people should, how wide, how long, how high, and how deep his love is. 19 May you experience the love of Christ, though it is too great to understand fully. Then you will be made complete with all the fullness of life and power that comes from God.

It was a very sweet moment for our family. We were blessed to have both of our mothers there with us. Lexi and Paisley's Godparents, Ward and Patty Seibert and two of their sons, Jackson and Dylan were also there. We are so blessed to have such wonderful people to be in our children's lives. They have some amazing grandparents and godparents. One funny moment was when Pastor Brent asked to hold Paisley and I began to hand her over, big sister Lexi was very protective of baby sister and was not completely thrilled with him holding her. It was very cute. Here are a few pictures from the service.

Spring has Sprung!

2009-04-26T22:03:00.003-05:00

I love spring!! It is so beautiful outside and all the world seems to come back to life with all the flowers and trees. Loving it! It is also a perfect time to be outside, not to hot and not too cold...just perfect weather. Lexi loves going outside, well she calls it "bye - byes". So we have been making sure that we take time everyday to just play outside a little bit. We have taken some fun pictures of our outside play time. Enjoy!

Birthday and Easter Celebrations

2009-04-16T17:28:00.005-05:00

Good Friday was also Rabu's birthday. Since it was Good Friday Rabu was home from school, so we got to celebrate him all day long. We started with a birthday breakfast of pancakes, eggs and bacon. Yummy. Then I gave him his birthday cake...pound cake. It is his aunties special recipe and his absolute favorite. Then for dinner we had steak with avocado salsa and bacon wrapped shrimp. That night we ended a day of celebration by the family piling in the bed and watching Rabu's favorite movie, The Lion King. It was a perfect lazy day. He even had some sweet friends Bree, Ric and Laney come over and bring him a very special gift. Gotta love good friends. So all in all I would say he had a great birthday.

Easter Sunday was Paisley's first time to go to church, we did not go into the main service, we just hung out with Daddy in kids church. He did a great lesson with the kids for Easter Sunday. He is so gifted to work with kids. Then we were off to my parents house in Tahlequah. My sister and her family were there as well. Mom made a great meal and had Easter baskets for the kids. Here are a few pictures from Easter.

Paisley and Family Two Week Photo Session

2009-04-14T17:20:00.002-05:00

Click on the picture below to link to our family photo session for Paisley's two week photos. Enjoy

Paisley Noelle ~ Week Two

2009-04-08T15:21:00.004-05:00

OK, so I promise I am not going to do weekly updates, but Paisley has already changed so much. We went to her two week check up and she is already 8 lbs 15.5 oz!! She is gaining weight like a champ. Those who know the stress that we had the first two weeks of Lexi's life because she was not gaining weight know what a blessing this is to us! Thank the Lord!!

Lexi is really warming up to her little sis. She is such a great helper. She gets diapers for me and she helps me calm the baby down by patting her back. She loves to point out her eyes, nose, feet and elbows. It is so cute how she is processing having a little sister.

We went and had some pictures taken yesterday of Paisley and the family. We took two week pictures with Lexi and wanted to do the same with Paisley. I think they are going to turn out great. Although Lexi was not totally thrilled with the idea of getting pictures taken, she did OK. We did not get the pictures of the girls that I was hoping for, or even a really good family picture, but you know that is how it is with a 20 month old and there is not too much you can do about it other than roll with it. I will post a link when we get the proofs so that you can take a look.

As far as life getting back to normal, I think that will be a while. I am feeling really good as far as my recovery, but I will tell you, there is this wall that you hit at week two. I hit that today, I had grand plans for doing dishes, laundry and going to the grocery store today, I could not get enough energy to do anything until about 2 this afternoon. Instead, I spent the morning on my couch with my baby girl in my arms and rested. Now I have managed to put a few loads of laundry in and do the dishes, but I am not going to the store, I will simply make Rabu a list and he will get the honors. :) It's all about just doing what you can and not worrying about the rest.

Paisley has pretty much figured out her days and nights and sleeps a lot. When she is awake she is wide awake and looking around at her world, wide eyed and taking it all in. She is a pretty easy baby. She cries when she is hungry or has a little bubble in her tummy, and is fairly happy the rest of the time. She has a really sweet spirit about her. I cannot wait to watch her grow into a lovely young lady who loves God and lives out her purpose. I also cannot wait to see her and Lexi interact more. There is something very special about sisters and I am excited that they have each other.

Ok, I guess that is enough of the ramblings of a tired but very content mommy. :)

Paisley Noelle - Week One

2009-04-01T11:53:00.012-05:00

It has been one week since Paisley joined our family. What a blessing she is! The delivery went as perfect as expected. We knew we were going in for a c-section, and since I had one with Lexi, I kinda knew what to expect. We had friends at the hospital all along the way: one of Rabu's student's parents was our Labor and Delivery nurse, a sweet friend from Church is the Labor and Delivery Nurse manager, and another sweet friend from Church was working in the nursery. It was nice to see friendly faces all along the way. God totally went before us and made this a wonderful experience.

They took me back to the OR at 9:00 last Tuesday, once they had given me my spinal block and were ready to get started they brought Rabu in. Then the doctors did their job. Seems like next thing I know I hear Dr. Blackstock saying, "oh my goodness, she is gorgeous!" and then baby girl let out a scream!! I am so glad she started crying right away. As many moms know its that split second from when the baby is delivered until they hear their baby cry is a little stressful. I just started crying when I heard her very strong voice. She was here! So Rabu went back with the baby as they cleaned her up and took all her stats. 8 lbs 6 oz, Born at 9:30 am, 20.75 inches

The doctor asked if we had named her yet, and I answered as I had answered for the last 3 weeks... We have not decided yet. Even though we were pretty sure we were going with Paisley. The nurse that is a friend of ours said, uh he is telling the name in the other room.... I asked what he was saying and thankfully Paisley was the answer. So then she was named! Well half way. We still did not have a middle name. Oh well we had 3 days to come up with something. Thankfully it did not take us 3 days, by the next day we had decided on Noelle. Paisley Noelle Leyva...our beautiful little lady.

My sister had brought me this adorable blanket right before delivery it was a quilt made out of the sheets that matches Paisley's bedding in her crib and another fabric. The other fabric had a paisley pattern on it. It made me smile, well I guess I smirked because after Lea heard the name she said, "that is why you made that face." I felt like it was God's little way of saying yep, Paisley is the name!

They brought Paisley over to me as they were "putting me back together". Such a sweet sweet moment. The first time you see your child. The sweetest thing is that she kept reaching out for me, she eventually grabbed my nose. She just kept making me cry and smile. I was just so happy to see her. Rabu and Paisley went to the nursery to finish cleaning up Paisley. He told the family her name through the glass. They took me back to the Labor and Delivery room to begin recovery. I was feeling great, but really I was pretty drugged up. :)

They finally brought Paisley to me and I got to hold her. We started feeding and she ate like a champ from day one. She has been a great eater since. She is already back to her birth weight in one week!! Praise the Lord!

Later they moved us to our post-partum room, a small one, but we were next on the list for a big room!! Yay, again God's favor on us. By that night we moved into the larger room. Such a blessing because there was room for friends and family to visit and celebrate our new little life.

Lexi came up to the hospital just hours after Paisley was born. She was just happy to see Rabu and I. She got up in bed with me and just cuddled a little bit, said "baby" and then was ready to run around and play. Lexi has warmed up to Paisley little bit and little bit every day. Yesterday, Lexi kissed the baby for the first time, and today when Lexi was going bye-byes she told the baby bye-bye and played with her little foot. She is already an awesome big sister. When the baby cries she looks at me and says, "UP!" She wants me to go get the baby up, she knows that it stops the crying. Also one time she looked at me and said, "Mommy, milk". She knew that was another way to get the baby to stop crying. Lexi is a smarty pants!

The recovery with the C-section has been exponentially better with this one. I was up and walking around pretty good by the second day this time, and I am doing so much more around the house because I am feeling good! God is so faithful.

Mom came and stayed with us for 4 days after we got out of the hospital to help with meals, cleaning and Lexi. She is such a blessing. Friends have been bringing meals and checking in on me daily. We are so blessed to have such a great network of friends that we love and love us!

Our little family has grown from 3 to 4 and it is just an amazing blessing. I cannot imagine our lives without either of our beautiful girls. What an amazing responsiblity to raise two girls to hear God's voice and not listen to the other voices that will try to call them away from the life that God has planned for them. We are so excited to have this opportunity and privilage to parent these girls. God is so Good! You know I am just amazed at how God just fills you with the love that you need to give, but I just feel like I am exploding with love for my family. I keep saying, our family feels good. It just feels right. I am so thankful to God for His blessings to our family.

Paisley Leyva ~ Welcome to The Leyva Life

2009-03-25T00:03:00.005-05:00

We welcomed Paisley Leyva into the world at 9:30 am on March 24th. She is so beautiful and just perfect! She weighed in at 8lbs and 6 oz, 20 3/4 in long. The C- Section went so well, I am feeling so great (pain meds are wonderful), and our sweet Paisley is practically perfect! She has been such a good eater and sleeper today, and really when you are hours old you cannot ask for more. Here is a picture that my sweet friend Bree took today so that I could post her pretty little face for you to see. Oh and for those wondering, we are still deciding on a middle name, that will be coming soon. We just like the suspense. ha ha

Twas the night before baby girl....

2009-03-23T23:05:00.002-05:00

and all through the house... ok, well I am not going to spend time being clever. I just wanted to say I am getting ready to go to bed and I am so excited for what tomorrow is going to bring. We are going in early tomorrow morning to have our baby girl!! Cannot wait to see her little face and kiss those little fingers and toes. We are so blessed!!
So off to bed I go with visions of sugar plums (or sweet baby girls) dancing in my head.

Basketball Champs

2009-03-18T19:59:00.005-05:00

Last week Rabu's two boys basketball teams won the city championships for Tulsa Public Middle Schools. Both the 7th and 8th graders had close games that kept us fans on the edge of our seat. Congratulations to the best coach in Tulsa!! I love you!

Way to go Thoreau Timberwolves!!

Lexi's new Love - The Park

2009-03-18T19:40:00.006-05:00

We have been to the park a few times in the last week taking advantage of this beautiful weather and enjoying our last week with Lexi bear as an only child. Rabu says that there is nothing like watching your daughter enjoy something as simple as going to the park. Here are a few pictures. Enjoy!

Maternity Pictures

2009-03-12T22:20:00.003-05:00

This past sunday we had maternity pictures taken. Click on the picture below to see the proofs from the photographer. I think we got some pretty good ones. :) Only 12 more days until baby girl gets here!! Enjoy!

Baby Girl Update - two weeks to go

2009-03-10T20:19:00.004-05:00

So two weeks from today I will be holding my sweet baby girl in my arms. I am so excited. Here are a few pictures of her room. It is mostly ready, I just need to find a rug and hang up the wall decor. Rabu is going to change out the celing fan during his spring break next week. Once we get all that done then it is finished! It has been a lot of fun getting her room ready. With life as crazy as it has been it is nice to get away to her room and just think about her coming to join our family.

We are a lot closer on a name!! Yay! We have a few that we like and will wait until we see her to name her. We would tell you our names, but what would be the fun in that? It's just two weeks away!

We went and had some maternity pictures taken with the family. I have not seen the proofs yet, but I think we got a few of Lexi with the baby belly that were pretty cute. I am excited to see what the photographer captured. We are trying someone new but she takes some really great pictures.

Mostly now I am focusing on getting things done at work. Being a CPA and due in the middle of tax season wasn't the best of planning, but I did not plan this one God did, so He is working this one out. :) I just have to remember to rely on Him for strength and organizational ability to get done what needs to be done not necessarily what I want to get done. (Sometimes I want done more than needs to be done. )

Baby girl is a mover and a shaker already, it is so fun to watch my belly move around. It is so amazing when I take time to think that my sweet baby is being formed and crafted in my belly by God Almighty!! I just can't wait to hold her and look into her sweet little face. We have been so blessed with Lexi bear that I just know that the second one is going to be just as much of a blessing. We still have moments where we ask each other, "um... do you realize we will be parents of two very soon!" It hasn't really sunk in even after 9 months. It will become reality very soon!!

We will keep you posted on all the goings on in the Leyva house as we are awaiting the arrival of baby girl. Yay, baby girl, we can't wait to see you!!

i heart valentine's day

2009-02-14T22:10:00.006-06:00

As long as I can remember I have always loved Valentine's day. Even back in the day when I did not have a valentine, I loved it. I loved exchanging valentine cards with the other kids in the class in elementary school. I loved having secret pals during love your neighbor week in middle school and high school. I loved coming home from school and mom had left a little something for us to show us that she loved us. I loved getting flowers from my dad.

I love that there is a day to remember the ones that we love and make our life rich. For me though the day is so great because it is a day devoted to celebrating what God is. God is love. Now, of course we humans have done what we do best and have commercialized a perfectly wonderful holiday, but your day is what you make it. As for me and my house we will celebrate the love of God today! I encourage you to do the same.

Here are my valentines: I love them so much, they make my life so rich!!!

Here is Lexi preparing valentine cards for the kids in her class. She mostly just liked the puppies on the cards and the stickers.

My Sweet Valentine!

Lexi is giving her puppy a ride on her horse for Valentine's Day

Glory Days

2009-02-01T21:42:00.004-06:00

Here is a little video of Lexi dancing to Bruce Springsteen's half time show...this particular dance is to her daddy's favorite "Glory Days." She cracks me up!

Baby Update - Week 30

2009-01-20T20:34:00.004-06:00

I am 30 weeks pregnant!! We went to the doctor last week and she told me to tentatively plan for March 24th to be delivery day!! That is only 9 weeks away! We are so excited. We heard baby girl's heartbeat and she is growing perfectly.

We have not made any more strides with the name. Rabu has one that he is leaning towards and I have one that I like...but we need to spend some more time thinking about it.

Ok so we don't have pics of the room yet but we are getting there...hopefully we will have some pics by next week of the room with furniture and all. :)

Lexi tried to give my belly her milk...she said "baby" and put her sippy cup to my belly and made yum yum sounds.

Baby girl will be here before we know it!! Yay!

Night at the Movies

2009-01-10T07:43:00.006-06:00

I went and saw the movie "Marley and Me" last night. It is a very cute movie about a family and their ornery dog Marley. It is also a very sad movie because it shows the reality of owning a pet and how people usually out live their animals that they love so much. There were some slow parts and some boring parts, but I think that mostly is attributable to the fact that I am just not a dog person, I am not really an animal person. Rabu and I have always agreed on the fact that we do not want any pets. Well while watching this movie and the emotions that the owners were going through while they lost their beloved dog I realized one of the reasons why I do not want a dog, cat or any other animal. I am just not that brave.

To have a pet means to me that I am choosing on purpose to bring another "person" in my life that I will love and have to lose. I just don't think I am willing to inflict that kind of pain on myself. I completely respect those who dare to love animals and give them a good home knowing that one day they will no longer be there to cuddle and be a companion. I do think that miss out on the rewards of having a pet, they are so fun, caring and don't care about all the silly things that people care about. They are unconditional in their love and are wonderful companions. I had a cat when I was younger and enjoyed having him, but when he passed, I thought I don't want to have to do that again.

So who knew a sweet movie about a dog and his family would give me an enlightened heart, maybe I should be more willing to love without fear of losing that person or our lives growing apart. Now to those who think I am going to go out and get a pet... uh no, I was enlightened not brainwashed. :o)

Lexi Bear

2009-01-07T21:25:00.008-06:00

I thought I would share a few pictures of our sweet Lexi Bear. She is growing up so fast. In just the last few weeks she has begun to show so much more personality. She loves playing with her animals. She knows so many different animals, some by name others by sound. For example, cows are "Moo" and dogs are "puppy, arf arf". Enjoy the pictures of my sweet little girl, she is truly a blessing and I love her so much!!

My Beautiful Baby Girl!

Lexi loves to "organize" the movies. She has picked out one of my favorite movies here, "While You Were Sleeping."

Lexi is trying to fill daddy's shoes. She and daddy have such a fun time together.

Lexi loved opening presents! She got a book with a stuffed Elmo. Of course to Lexi it is 'Mo. She loves 'Mo!

Lexi got some small stuffed animals in her stocking from daddy. She got an "ahh ahh" and a puppy. She loves monkeys and puppies.

Lexi and a few of her friends.

Baby Update - Week 28

2009-01-04T22:12:00.003-06:00

Baby girl is growing and growing and so is my belly. Everything is going very well. I am 28 weeks pregnant and baby girl is about 2 1/4 lbs, blinking her eyes and can tell when it is light or dark outside the womb. God is also developing billions of neurons in her brain. It is pretty amazing that she will be here in 3 short months.

We have made some very big strides in preparing for baby girl's arrival. We have picked out and purchased the furniture for baby girl's room and we will pick it up next weekend. Pictured here, we got the crib and the dresser, the armoire would have been a bit excessive for the size of her room. Rabu is painting the room as I blog. I picked out a very light green color for the walls. I will post pictures when we get the room all set up. I would not look for them any time too soon, we move kinda slow these days, especially with busy season lurking.

We are still working on names, we think we may have found a few options and a possible middle name, but for the time being we are keeping them pretty hush hush. I know very annoying to many of you, but its how we roll. We are still not in love with any name yet so the search is still on. I am praying that God will just send an angel in a vision and say you will name your child "fill in a name". Wouldn't that be awesome? But then what if I did not like the name...ha ha that would be ironic. OK so maybe I do like that God is letting us find the perfect name simply being led by the Holy Spirit and not waste any angel time on a very small issue.

Lexi is still so sweet and says hi to her sister and gives her kisses through my belly. She was rubbing my belly the other night saying, " aw little baby". It was so sweet.

Happy Christmas and a Merry New Year!

2009-01-04T20:59:00.004-06:00

We have had a wonderful past two weeks celebrating Christmas and the New Year. Christmas was a lot of fun this year since Lexi has become more aware of toys and presents, but most importantly baby Jesus. She loved playing with her Little People Nativity. She would always want to find the baby first and put him in the barn. After the baby came the "moo" and the "baa". At least she knows the baby is the most important. When we opened presents she loved taring open the gifts and finding the fun toys inside.

This year Rabu volunteered to stuff the stockings. He had a lot of fun shopping for Lexi and I and trying to find things that we would love and appreciate. Afterward, he said he had so much fun that he wants to do it again next year but he will not wait until 2 days before Christmas. I definitely enjoyed sharing the Christmas shopping experience with him.

We went to Tahlequah to spend a couple days with my parents, siblings and their families. It was a very enjoyable holiday. Lexi loved playing with her cousins but was not too thrilled about Molly, Mom and Dad's new puppy. By the third day she found the courage to pet Molly all on her own. We were able to get a few games of Scrabble in and Melissa made sure that we knew she was a force to be reckoned with by winning one of the games. After pounds of sweets and mom's famous green chili soup I was so full I did not need to eat for days. Pretty much a perfect Christmas.

We spent New Years Eve watching a basketball game and on the way home I was craving some sushi, but with a sleepy baby girl in the car I knew that dining in anywhere would be impossible. So that is when I thanked God for In the Raw - to go!! We called in an order and picked it up on the way home. Lexi went to bed and Rabu and I watched a movie and ate sushi. (no worries all my sushi was cooked or veggie, no raw stuff for this preggo) We wanted to have a laid back New Years Eve and this was pretty much perfect. We nodded off to sleep shortly after the New Year.

It was a wonderful holiday season, relaxed and family focused. I could not have asked for a better two weeks. Now back to work for Rabu and strait into busy season for me.

Baby Update

2008-12-10T20:51:00.004-06:00

I am now 24 weeks pregnant. I am amazed how quickly this second pregnancy is going! Lexi keeps me plenty distracted and busy. I have managed to pick out the bedding for baby girl's room. (pictured) Now I need to go order her furniture and pick out a wall color so that Rabu can paint the room during his Christmas break.

We are still working on a name. Every night I get the name book out and flip through it. As I usually don't find anything, I ask Rabu to pick a page number and a number between 1 and 10 and I look that name up in the book. Last night it gave us the name Zsa Zsa...uh yeah... we won't be using that one. Oh well we still have 3 1/2 months until the kiddo gets here and we have to name her. My career is deadline driven, so maybe I am subconsciously procrastinating. It would be nice if God would just let us know...all in His time.

Lexi has noticed my belly getting a little bigger. She has mostly noticed daddy talking to and kissing my tummy, and of course she wants to do what her daddy does. She is really sweet, she waves "hi" and then gives my belly a kiss. She is going to be an awesome big sister.

Sometimes I wonder how in the world I am going to love another child as much as I love Lexi. The Holy Spirit reminds me who's image I am created in. I am created in the image of God, who is Love Himself. So it is in my DNA to love my children completely and uniquely. I know that I will have plenty of love to give because God freely gives His love to me every day.

So those are the random thoughts of this preggo.

Oh Christmas Tree

2008-12-03T11:49:00.004-06:00

Monday I spent all day cleaning my house so that I could put up my tree in a clean house...in my mind it adds to the splendor! Anyway Monday night after Lexi went to bed I finished decorating the tree and I was very pleased and very tired. Tuesday morning I went into her room got her ready for the day and we went to the living room to begin our morning ritual of Backyardigans, breakfast and doing her hair. Then she saw the tree in the corner of the room. I put her down in front of the tree and she just pointed and stared for a minute, then she said "WHOA". She had found the Backyardigan ornament on the tree. She pointed and smiled and then said whoa about 49 more times! She was in awe of this beautiful tree in our home. It made my heart warm. I hope she enjoys the Christmas season as much as I do, I look forward to sharing memories with my sweet little Lexi.

Now to make sure that she has ten times more awe for the Reason we celebrate then how we celebrate...all in good time. :)

Tagged...with reflection

2008-11-23T12:42:00.003-06:00

So, by virtue to reading her blog on the subject, I have now been tagged to do the following blog-thanks Laura.

1. Go to your pictures folder and open the fourth folder

2. Upload the fourth picture and explain it

3. Tag four friends

2. From the folder with some pictures from my sweet friend Amanda, pictured with me. Amanda and I are at one of my baby showers. I am 37 weeks pregnant with Lexi. Amanda came from Arkansas to see me and to help me get the room ready for Lexi-Bear. Amanda and I have known each other for since summer of 1999. We met at the best kamp in the world, Kids Across America. www.kidsacrossamerica.org In 2000 we were co-counselors and we had the best time! She is a very faithful friend, and she shares the same love for the Texas Longhorns as I do. Love you Manna!

3. As far as tagging... Joy, Karen, Mindy...you are officially tagged. Can't wait to see your pictures and memories.

Uninvited Guest

2008-11-22T08:45:00.008-06:00

Last night Lexi had just laid down to go to sleep, I was watching "Made of Honor" and talking to Rabu on the phone. Out of the corner of my eye I saw something scurry across the floor down the hall toward our bedrooms. I did not want to move, but I knew that I had to go get the thing out of my house...the nerve of a mouse coming to stay the night without an invitation! So Rabu told me I had to be brave and get the broom and something to catch the mouse in and go find and capture the mouse. EEEEKKKK....that is why I have a husband!! Well he was not home so I had to take care of it.

I went and got the broom and found the mouse in our bedroom, I was so glad it had not gone into Lexi's room... that could have been a disaster. So I knew it was under my dresser so I put a bath and body works bag in the corner and made some noise by the dresser hoping that the mouse would "seek shelter" in the bag. It worked!! So I put my foot on the front of the bag to close it. This was the part that I did not think through... I did not know how I was going to pick the bag up with out letting the mouse out, or it jumping out and clawing my eyes out... it was a vicious little brown mouse I am sure. I decided that I should not try to pick up and carry the bag so I kept my foot on the bag and scooted the bag out of our room and down the hall to the front door. Rabu had told me to open the front door so that I could get rid of it quickly when I had caught it. He is so smart. I scooted the bag to the front door, then as fast as I could bent down and grabbed the handle to the bag and threw the whole bag, mouse and all out on the front porch. I saw the mouse scurry away. Thank God that thing was no longer in my home!! Whew... I felt so brave and strong! :)

So if you have a mouse in your house and you need help getting rid of it, don't call me, I have already done my duty!

Fevers, Teeth, and a Cantankerous Child

2008-11-18T08:58:00.005-06:00

This weekend was an interesting one. Lexi had a fever off and on all weekend. It broke for a few hours on Saturday to return that evening and then finally broke on Sunday. It is so sad to see the little ball of joy and energy just sit there beside me and stare. She was so tired and lethargic. We have been so blessed to not have much sickness in our family so this was new around our house.

Just when we saw a glimmer of our Lexi back on Sunday night, Monday morning she woke up "in a mood". She did not want anything but to be held. We tried to feed her, she threw a fit, we tried to give her milk, she threw a fit, we tried to give her a bath, she threw a fit...do you see a pattern here? So I did what all good moms do, I loaded her up in the car and went to Starbucks. Ha Ha, I know that sounds very selfish, but I knew we were going to have a day ahead so a pumpkin spice latte and slice of pumpkin loaf couldn't hurt. I also got Lexi a blueberry muffin. The car ride relaxed her and when we got home she ate the muffin. So all day she acted sick but did not have a fever. That is when the mommy radar clued in...this must be teething as other moms know it. We have again been blessed with teething so far. Lexi only has four teeth and they came in with no trouble at all. It appears she is working on two teeth coming in, so her behavior made sense. No wonder she did not want to eat, it probably hurt. No wonder she was clingy, she was in pain. So we gave her some Tylenol and she was a lot more pleasant.

In light of the last couple day's events Lexi has been quite cantankerous. But really do you blame her? I would be too if I had a fever and then just when I got over that, my mouth started hurting... yeah, that would put me in a bad mood and I would want my mommy too!

Today she is doing a little better, but still seems irritated with her mouth.

Thankful

2008-11-13T13:40:00.003-06:00

I went to a funeral today for a wonderful man that I used to work with. He was only 35 and had been fighting cancer for a year. He has a sweetheart of a wife and 7 beautiful children that are going to miss him terribly. We will all miss him and his cheery disposition.

As my heart aches for this family in their loss, I cannot help but be thankful. I am thankful for salvation, and God's grace and love. I am thankful for my wonderful husband and sweet baby girls. I am thankful for a family that loves me for who I am. I am thankful for health and life for myself and those I love.

So today, and with the Thanksgiving season here, think about what you are thankful for. The simple things, the things we might at first glance not notice or take for granted. If you want, leave a comment and tell us what you are thankful for.

I am thankful for all of you!

It's a...

2008-11-04T13:23:00.003-06:00

Our little one on the way is a GIRL!! We are so excited for our little baby girl! She was so wiggly on the ultrasound, but we did get a good pic of her lady parts to be pretty sure its a girl! I am sure Lexi is going to be so excited to have a little sister, and she is going to be an awesome big sister! So all those girly clothes in my attic are going to get to be used again! Yay!

Time is moving slowly

2008-11-04T09:07:00.002-06:00

I am trying to wait patiently until our appointment to find out the sex of our baby. The hours seem to be creeping by. I will post the results when I have them. :) I cannot wait. I keep day dreaming about my little one.

Oh and for those who might not have known... today is election day...go out and vote! ;)

Halloween - Bah! Humbug!

2008-10-31T10:02:00.006-05:00

So I am not a fan of Halloween. I have never liked spooky things, and my family never celebrated it growing up. This year for our family, Rabu and I have decided to not celebrate Halloween. I know a lot of good christian families that do dress up and trick-or-treat and I am absolutely OK with that, it is their decision. I do not feel like this is a deal breaker and if someone celebrates the innocent things of Halloween that they are going strait to "Hades". But for the Leyvas we have chosen to not to celebrate. I just figured, if the people of the Jewish faith can say with such confidence because of how they believe that they do not celebrate Christmas, then based on what I believe can simply say I do not celebrate Halloween. So on that note, I am trying to be balanced today. Unfortunately I am getting some pretty awkward responses when people ask me what Lexi is going to be for Halloween. To some I respond, "we do not celebrate Halloween" and then they get all uncomfortable like I am going to go all "charismatic" on them or judge them for what they have decided for their family. To others when they ask what Lexi is going to be for Halloween, I simply say she will be herself... CUTE!

What a challenge to be who I feel like God is calling our family to be and still be a light. I know that the things of God do make people uncomfortable, but I don't want to be labeled as a crazy christian that people write off and no longer listen to. So, as I take a stand for what I believe is right for our family, I am doing my best to make my love walk apparent to those around me. If only people could see my heart, they would know that I am not passing judgement on them. The only person God has asked me to judge is myself.

We will be attending our church's fall festival tonight complete with pony rides and s'mores. I love fall and how the seasons change. So today instead of focusing on the scary things like witches and vampires, we are focusing on the fact that God is faithful through all the season's changes. He is faithful through every season of life, and we are thankful for that. So no better time to celebrate God's goodness than today!

A New Christmas Tradition

2008-10-30T10:00:00.005-05:00

OK, I know it is not even Halloween yet and I am already thinking about Christmas!! I can't help it! I LOVE Christmas! So I was out shopping last night with Lexi Bear and we were looking at some ornaments and I had an idea. I am going to pick out an ornament each year that is reminiscent of the year past and then I will write in a little book why I picked the ornament. When she gets old enough then we will go and pick out an ornament together and fill out her book together. So every year as we decorate the tree we will go through the ornaments and the book of memories.

So for this year I am on the search for a Backyardigans ornament. Lexi loves the Backyardigans, it is so cute to watch her dance when they are singing the intro to the show. She has a plush Tasha toy and even one of her words that she says right now is "Tasha". So I thought it appropriate that Backyardigans be her ornament for 2008.

The only tricky thing is that I am having a hard time finding a very cute one. So if any of you see one while you are out shopping let me know!

So here is to the holiday season and to making memories!

Baby Leyva Update

2008-10-29T09:27:00.005-05:00

For all of those who I have not talked to lately about Baby Leyva here is a quick update of the pregnancy so far. They have moved my due date to March 30, 2009. I have had a very similar pregnancy as with Lexi. I have not been sick at all, and I feel great! I finally got my energy back, that first trimester is exhausting. As a sweet friend of mine says..."I am so tired, I am growing an arm today". It takes a lot of energy. I am now 18 weeks and it seems to be flying by!

We will find out what the baby's gender is on November 4th, yes election day! So all kinds of exciting results all in one day! I thought we would be more opinionated on what we wanted the gender to be, but surprisingly we really have no preference. A girl would be fun because then they would be so close in age and hopefully be good friends. Rabu said that if it was a girl, his basketball team would be unstoppable. Ha ha. If it is a boy then we will have one of each and a boy would be a lot of fun too. So I guess we will just wait and see.

As far as names... we are waiting to rule out half of them when we find out the gender so that we can begin to narrow it down. I am hoping to have a name or two a lot sooner than when we did with Lexi. So now the question remains...will we tell you the name... probably not. We will probably want to wait and see the kiddo and make sure that it is fitting for its beautiful little face before we name it. :)

Check back for the results on November 4th.

30 years

2008-10-29T08:48:00.008-05:00

Wow what a fun weekend of celebrating! I turned 30 this past Sunday, and I will have to tell you, I think turning 30 is fun! I had 4 days of celebration! It all started Friday with many of my sweet friends surprising me at a restaraunt with a party. It was so much fun, here are a few pics.

Then Saturday Rabu, Lexi and I went to dinner to celebrate. As a birthday gift to me I am sure, the Texas Longhorns remained undefeated on Saturday even though my boy Colt McCoy thought about giving the game away!

On Sunday we went to Tahlequah to celebrate with my family. It was a lot of fun, we ate (what Garcias do best), painted pumpkins, and watched football!

Then when I returned to work on Tuesday my cube was decorated with all kinds of "happy birthday" garb and we had a princess tea party complete with tiara and wands. The theme was from 30 to 3. Very sweet of the girls in the office to do!

So here I am feeling very celebrated and thankful for my family, friends, and living the life that I have so far. The amazing part is that I have years and years to come!

Thank you to all who made me feel so celebrated! Love you all!

because all the cool people are doing it

2008-10-15T14:22:00.004-05:00

I have recently been following a few sweet friend's blogs and I truely enjoy looking at them and have been so blessed by thier lives. They have inspired me to start this blog. I am sure as time passes we will see where this goes, and as moods change so will the purpose of this blog. Some days it will be a reporting tool to let you know what is going on in our Leyva Life. Other days it very well could be a "soap box". And still other days it could be a landing pad for all the random thoughts of the day. Regardless I hope that it is encouraging to you.