the mcquire family

PUSH!!!

2012-02-17T13:19:00.000-08:00

In the South (and I'm sure they do it other places as well) we believe in many things, one being that a Mama that is about to give birth deserves a "Push Present." My husband has a pretty fabulous track record in this department and today surprised me with mine for sweet baby Georgia. I have wanted a nice watch for SO long I can't even tell you, I have pined for different one's for years. Much to my surprise my precious hubs had been listening and now I am the proud owner of this beauty:

Michele- Releve Diamond Chronograph Watch

I'm pretty smitten with it, I must say.

Thank you amazing husband for your generosity and making me feel like a million bucks! Especially when I look like I weigh a million pounds. ;) ...Oh 7.5 months pregnant so close, yet so far away. Ha!

In other news -- I have been seeing the "top knot" or "ballerina bun" all over Pinterest lately and decided that I would give it a go... Disclaimer: I did this in a hurry before dropping the babe off at school. Next time I think it will turn out better. But, I really liked it and it was a cinch.

Whatcha' think? It needs a little work, but not too shabby.

I also ordered some stretched canvas's from our photo shoot in December with the fabulous Erin Woolsey (ee-photography). I just got them in the mail and I couldn't be more IN LOVE!! Can't wait to get these up on the wall. ...

That's about all that's going on around these parts... Happy Friday Lovah's!

30 weeks

2012-02-14T07:46:00.000-08:00

I cannot tell you how fast this pregnancy has flown by. I am 30 weeks and have 10 left... AHHH, I will be the mama of TWO in just a hot minute. How can that be?? :) We are so excited to welcome baby Georgia Gray to our family, I am starting to get so antsy wanting to know who she is going to look like?? Blonde hair, brunette, green eyes or blue? CAN'T WAIT!

This is what Big Mama is working with these days...

and this is what big sister has been up to ...

LOVE.

will you be mine? ...

2012-02-14T07:21:00.000-08:00

Happy Valentines Day

2012-02-13T13:29:00.000-08:00

Today was sweet Belle's Valentine's Day party at school. I absolutely love this time of the year, especially with baby girls. Pink, red, candy hearts, OH MY! ... The clothing alone will send me into the poor house faster than you can shake your head. Belle had so much fun celebrating with her little friends today, so happy I could be there to eat way too much cookie cake with her. ;)

Making pasta heart necklaces...

My Precious Valentine

Valentine Lunch!

Love those piggy tails! ;)

Yay for Cookie Cake!!

I may have eaten my slice and then finished hers too...just maybe.

We've never met a cookie we didn't like.

Like mother, like daughter.

Hope y'all have a fabulous Valentine's Day and get to celebrate all week long! xoxo

Father - Daughter Dance 2012

2012-02-06T08:23:00.000-08:00

We have been crazy over here ... but, I just have to stop and take a minute to blog (so I remember) about such a precious memory from this weekend. Belle's pre-school is so awesome and they throw such great events for the kids and this weekend was one of them. They held a Father-Daughter Dance on Friday, and we were SO excited to participate. My precious husband and seriously such a great Daddy pulled out all the stops and rocked his tuxedo to the dance. It was seriously the CUTEST thing ever to see them get ready and leave hand in hand to go party hardy. :) I took some pictures before they left and they just melt my heart.

The dance had a full dinner, cupcake bar, music, balloons everywhere and horse and carriage rides for all the Daddy's and Daughters. How sweet is that?!! Love it!

Belle and GiGi

(think this may be Georgia's nickname, just testing it out...haha)

Are so lucky to call this guy Daddy, seriously so blessed.

I also had to snap a few pics of me and my nugget before they left!!

LOVE HER!!

and off they go...call it the pregnancy hormones but I may have teared up while they walked hand in hand down the driveway.

Such sweet memories... xoxo

Baby Belle (who is nearly 3 YEARS OLD!!!!!)

2012-01-10T20:24:00.000-08:00

My teeny tiny angel baby will turn THREE on March, 25th. I cannot believe I just typed that, it has to be a lie!!!! ... I am so excited for this next phase with her and all of her growing and learning as a big kid (oh my a small piece of my heart just broke...she really will be more of a kid vs. toddler, oh my!) She has been entertaining us since the day she was born. Belle is my Princess Ballerina and just loves her some spotlight (she may get it from her mama? just sayin') ...

Here are some fun pics of what my little diva has been up to lately... ;)

Playing at the park a few mornings ago...love this nugget with my whole heart!

We also went to go see "The Chipmunks" movie with my MIL, Grandma. Belle loved it!! She would get up and dance every time those rodents belted out a tune. It was the cutest thing ever.

After the park (from 1st pic) I took Belle to the Gap to find some burlap sacks for this preg mama to wear and Belle decided to jazz up her own outfit as well. Please note the ear muffs and gold quilted cross-body bag. I adore it!

Oh and last but certainly not least...Belle informed me last night that she was getting ready for "THE BALL" and she is now "Princess Ballerina Campbell" ...Oh heavens! Loving this get-up as well!!

How do you not just want to squeeze this baby??!! Love her so!

Pregnancy Update

2012-01-03T09:20:00.000-08:00

Georgia girl is grow, grow, growing!! She is kicking more and more everyday and I am just loving feeling her move and getting her nursery ready ...this weekend I am buying paint, not sure what color yet?! ...

Far Along: a little over 23 weeks beginning my 6th month!

Baby size: 8 inches and 1 pound!!

Cravings: Bagels and cream cheese have been a favorite lately. I normally eat two a day, hey thighs! ;) and cereal, I eat a lot of cereal -- mostly as my after dinner snack, don't judge!

Moving: Lots of flips and kicks!

Feeling: Georgia is sitting SO low that I have a lot of pressure on my hips etc... which is the exact opposite of Belle who was SO high. So I feel like b/c of the pressure I have started the pregnancy waddle a tad earlier than usual. Lovely. But other than that I am feeling good and content.

23 weeks!

Oh and a close up, ya ready for it?...

Hey there Georgia Girl!! :) ...

Christmas 2011

2012-01-03T08:51:00.000-08:00

This Christmas was eventful to say the least!! We closed on our house on the 15th of December and with it being 10 days before Christmas the race to get settled began! ...We managed to get A LOT done in those 10 days and my poor husband worked his tail off completing all my "honey-do's." It was kind of hard to enjoy December because of the move and everything being so crazy but, we did our best to embrace the chaos and enjoy the season.

I feel so very blessed that we got to celebrate our LAST Christmas as a family of three in our new house. I just kept thinking ...holy cow, next year we will have an almost 4 year old & an 8 month old!!!! WOW!!! But, I'm definitely getting ahead of myself, back to this Christmas. We kind of on accident went a little crazy with presents for Miss. Belle this year. I think I got sentimental that this was her last as an only child and became a toy hoarder. Every time I would leave the house to run errands I would grab "just a couple little things" for her and wouldn't you know it, come Christmas Eve I realized oh goodness I have a small toy store under that tree!! ...In my defense, we really don't buy Belle toys during the year unless it's her birthday or very special occasion. So, when big holidays roll around we normally need all kinds of new age appropriate toys for the nugget. Anyway, it was an amazing Christmas morning with my family of three ... Belle was SO precious opening all her gifts she was THRILLED and so excited to tear everything open. As I have said, read, and been told numerous times, nothing compares to seeing the holidays through your child's eyes. It is SO true, witnessing their pure joy is such a blessing, I can't
explain it!

We also sang "Happy Birthday" to Jesus (numerous times) and spent Christmas Eve at Church celebrating the real reason for the season. Even though she is only 2.5, Kyle and I made a point to explain why we celebrate Christmas to Belle. She seemed to understand quite a bit of what we told her and the story of Christmas. Whenever someone would say "Merry Christmas" to her when we were out and about Belle would always reply "Merry Christmas, and Happy Birthday to Jesus" ...truly just the sweetest thing ever!! :)

One of mine and Belle's favorite presents is her "Anywhere Chair" from Pottery Barn- which arrived two days after Christmas. She was so excited that "Santa was still sending me presents, Mama" ha!

(We got an identical one for Georgia too!!! Love seeing those two chairs sitting next to each other)

It was a blessed, hectic holiday. I'm happy to be settling down...haha! :)

Happy New Year - 2012!!!

2012-01-01T08:21:00.000-08:00

Cannot wait for all the blessings that 2012 will hold...especially our precious second bundle of joy, Miss. Georgia Gray!! ...

A few weeks ago we had our family pictures done. Here is a small preview and some of my favorites!! :) The FABULOUS Erin Woolsey of EEphotography took our pictures and she was just an absolute delight to work with. I honestly cannot say enough about her, and thanks to my amazing friend Meredith who referred me to her.

I literally have 400 to go through, these are my faves- SO FAR...ha! :)

CHAOS

2011-12-15T06:14:00.000-08:00

The move is in FULL swing around these parts. We are surrounded by boxes and giant tupperware bins. We did manage to set-up our Christmas tree at the new house. Belle had so much fun placing all the ornaments (in a cluster at the bottom of the tree) on the tree. If I were on top of my game I would of taken a picture of our tree...alas, I totally forgot! ...

even with the boxes and craziness, Belle still finds the energy to "dance ballet" for us!

so happy to have on a tutu and "ballerina hair" aka a bun!

TA DA!!!

Pregnancy Update:

Well, I can't believe this pregnancy is already half way over??!! How did that happen? I am a little over 20 weeks and really starting to "pop out." I feel like I get bigger every couple of hours. :0 Oh my! I'm still feeling good, some lower back pain lately but, other than that it's been all good. We did feel the baby kick about a week or so ago, so exciting!! It really is one of the very best things about pregnancy, such an incredible feeling. I'm still not craving anything yet, or at least nothing crazy. With Belle I craved oranges with reckless abandon. I'm talking 6 oranges in one sitting...I would carry a jug of Simply Orange juice like it was my life line. Georgia hasn't brought on anything that strong, yet!

"ballerina twirl"

we found some of Belle's baby toys in storage...

MY SWEET BALLERINA!

I am getting really excited about decorating this precious nuggets nursery. My vision is PEACOCK!! The colors the feathers...I may use it all? With Belle we went punch pink, monograms and floral, so for Georgia I want something different. I'm going more blues, greens, tulle, feathers... but in a chic, subtle way, of course! Ha ... AND for my angel Belle's big girl room we are going light lavender, chocolate brown & gold (and maybe a touch of leopard print). Excited to get their rooms decorated and complete.

Now, I am off to pack up more boxes and clean up the many messes around this casa! xo

Pink, Tutu's, Sparkles and Such...

2011-12-08T15:04:00.000-08:00

Kyle and are BEYOND thrilled to announce that baby #2 is a .....

GIRL!!!!!!!!!!
Georgia Gray McQuire

Belle is going to have a baby sister and we are feeling abundantly blessed!! I am already brainstorming nursery ideas and shopping for teeny tiny pink outfits. She is growing perfectly and is right on track for her April due date. So excited to meet this tiny angel love.

xoxo

The Liebster Blog Award

2011-12-08T08:55:00.000-08:00

The Liebster Blog Award is given to up and coming bloggers who have less than 200 followers.

Julia at mr.b and me honored my blog and I, and I couldn't be more touched by her kindness. She is a brand new Mommy to the sweetest baby girl, Perry. I love all of her family updates and pictures, her family honestly couldn't be any cuter. I am hoping, hoping that some day soon we actually get to meet each other in person. xo

Liebster is a German word meaning 'dear, sweet, kind, nice, good, beloved, lovely, kindly, pleasant, valued, cute, endearing and welcome'.

To keep this award going (by passing along to other new deserving blogs), the recipient must now recognize five other bloggers with less than 200 follower sthat have really stood out in the crowd.

The rules for the Liebster Award are:

1. Thank the person who gave the award and link back to their blog.

2. Reveal your top 5 picks and let them know!

3. Copy and paste the award on your blog post.

4. Have faith that your followers will spread the love too! 

*I am going to copy Julia and add to the rules by saying a little something about the blogs below!*

(some of the blogs Julia picked I just love so much too but, I'm going to add some new one's to the mix)

So, here are my choices to receive this award...

1. My sweet friend from High School, Julia writes a fun blog about her new life in Chicago. She is finishing up medical school (residency) there and it's so exciting to see all her pictures and adventures. She posts news articles, stuff about her life, inspirational quotes etc...I love checking in on her and her great blog.

A Day in the Life

2. My sister in law, but really just my sister writes a picture docu-blog that follows her through each day by picture for a year. Now this year will soon be up and I'm not sure if she is going to continue it? BUT, it's so fun to see each day what her picture will be. Plus she is family and I love her so much! :)

A Day in [My] Life

3. Katie, her husband Richard and their PRECIOUS angel baby boy, Jack are just the sweetest little family. We have been friends with them for ~4+ years and I am just so happy for their amazing marriage and beautiful baby. Katie is such and inspiration to me because she is such a noble Christ centered wife and mother. I strive to be more like her everyday. I love her faith and faithfulness. She posts scripture, family updates and she is always cooking or baking something amazing!

Life is Beautiful

4. Becki has been one of my closest friends for years. We talk about everything under the sun and we were blessed beyond measure when we found out we were pregnant with our first children at the exact same time!! We literally didn't leave each other's side (via text, emails, phone calls b/c we lived in CA at the time) for that entire 9 months. Since then we have such a bond through motherhood, I am just blessed by her friendship. Her blog is awesome, she has two beautiful baby boys, Charlie & Jack... and a blooming photography career. I love her and all her precious family updates and creative activities she does with her boys!

The Moore Family

5. Katie is a mommy-to-be and they just found out that they are having a baby girl. She posts about her sweet growing family and how she is decorating their new home. She is kind and fun and even though I only know her through the "blog" world reading her blog and trading comments makes me feel like we're friends. She is also chronicling her pregnancy and it's cool to see how much her precious bump grows each week/month! :)

Our Happily Ever After

Thank you again to sweet Julia for this award!! xoxo

Sweet Home Decor...

2011-12-06T09:38:00.000-08:00

I am currently obsessed/overwhelmed with what the decor will be in our new house. I have been pin, pin, pinning away any and every home picture I can get my grubby little hands on. ;)

Wanna see what I am LOVING? I just knew you'd say YES! ha!

Master Bedroom:
I am currently wearing my poor husband down begging for an upholstered headboard. I just LOVE the look and feel that it would be exactly what we need to give our bedroom a face lift. Here are some fave options:

My bedroom is currently and will stay- Black, White, Gray & Gold.

I think for the headboard I'd like it to be a tufted, and solid in one of the above colors?

Hmmm...

This pic is probably the closest to my actual vision. We already have two matching circular mirrors & white nightstands. As I tell my husband "Babe, look we're halfway there" :) ha!

Kitchen:

For the Kitchen it will stay pretty simple. One day those dark cabinets will be painted white

(gotta work on the one, may take a couple years). The one thing I do want is built-in seating. My husband and I both really like banquettes and Kyle aka "Bob Villa" swears he can fashion us one "No problem". We shall see...

I just love this "X" dining table...and that it's white.

Or I really love this natural re-purposed table, very cool. I think for us we will do banquette seating on one side in a durable fabric. Maybe a faux white or black leather/vinyl?? Something you can just wipe down to clean. Can I get an Amen...MOMS?? Then white slip covered chairs in a durable canvas or linen on the opposite side so you still get a formal/grown-up feel too.

I like this pic b/c our banquette will be under a set of windows.

Gives me an actual idea of what it will look like. (minus the colors)

Am I boring you yet, do you care?? I am trying to narrow down these images so I can have a post to go to to remember my "vision" ...cause this mommy brain/memory just isn't cutting it! :)

Family Room:

We will also keep our family room pretty same-same as well. I am hoping dear, dear Santa is bringing me a black & white chevron zig zag rug. That will be the main pattern for the room. The drapes are a solid light gray and our couch is white. Are y'all picking up on a theme yet? I swear hand to heart, I don't hate color! ha! I think I just got it out of my system with our first house which everyone affectionately called "Casa de Colores" Oh yes honey, I'm talking green, purple, punch pink...Oh My! ;) ... So this

go-round I am staying pretty monochromatic. Although, some of the pillows on our couch will have blues and light turquoise so it's not so stark.

I'd move right on in! Love this room ^

Great use of pattern and muted tones, big fan.

Game Room:

I am kind of lacking when it comes to this room...? It needs to be kid-friendly and kind of a man-zone at the same time. It's not a huge space and needs to hold toys and a desk/office for the Hubs. It's a lot and I want to efficiently use the space. Oh, and I promised my precious husband it will also feature a real deer head that he is so very proud of. ...It's going to work, promise!! -- I'm still looking for pics that convey what I'm thinking

What do ya think? I am so READY to be in the new house I can't even tell you! Packing and organizing are so not my thing. We will also (FIRST ORDER OF BUSINESS) be putting up our Christmas tree the VERY first day that we get the keys to the house!! It MUST go up!! ...

Okay, I'll leave you now...if you read this whole post bless you. If I lost you halfway through, solid effort I don't blame you at all! haha... :) xo

Topsy Turvy

2011-12-02T18:09:00.000-08:00

Well, I went in for my anatomy confirmation ultrasound today and wouldn't you know it...what I thought I knew for sure was thrown out the window by my OBGYN. Instead we were left with a lot of maybe this, maybe that. My sweet angel #2 would not cooperate at all and instead sat nice and still with knees and ankles crossed. I mean?? Seriously?? Since the very first ultrasound and all following this teeny tiny has NOT cooperated. Baby just does not want Mama to know! (killing me!!!!)

this picture just cracks me up!

Just look how BIG she is??!! Slow down!

I know I had said that I KNEW the sex already and honestly I truly thought we did. We had an ultrasound tech give me the ol' 95% positive... well, that 5% may have just proved him wrong! We will know for sure (hopefully and with all fingers and toes crossed) next Thursday when we go in yet again.
Ha! :)

Baby Love

I could care less what the gender is (truly) as long as this angel blessing is healthy and happy. I am perfect with whatever God has chosen for our family, boy or girl.

Meanwhile here I am at 19 weeks (cannot believe how fast we are approaching the half-way mark) :

Rocking some real nice hair that needs to be re-introduced to a brush and a flat iron.

...

Cravings: Nada, just hungry.

Feeling: Great and maybe a tad emotional.

Far Along: 19 weeks

Baby Size: Large Mango

xoxo

AND...PS- Thank y'all SO very much for all your SWEET and amazing comments about our new house!! Made me smile from ear to ear. Love you guys!!

MOVING on up...

2011-12-01T06:53:00.000-08:00

Well, we finally bit the bullet and bought another house!! After a little over a year of being back in Austin, Texas we have a home to call our own. It's a brand new house that was just finished a few months ago. We are pretty excited about that, since it's our very first NEW house. Our home in California was built in 1927 and we did major renovations to it. So excited to just move in and not have to worry about a thing. We get the keys on the 15th, oh ya know, nothing better than moving 10 days before Christmas!! Ha! ;) ... I have a few builder pictures that truly are not that great. I promise as soon as we are officially in I'll take some good pics and take you on a little house tour.

This is the open kitchen that faces the family room.

More Kitchen...

Family room facing the front door and stairway...

Coming up the staircase to the Game Room...

View off the Master Bedroom Balcony ....

( We have the same view off the kitchen/front balcony too)

It's really such an incredible view and was one of our favorite features of the house! Love it!

(Oh and, that's our driveway)

Last but not least...The front of our house:

Home Sweet Home!

We can't wait to move in and get settled... oh heavens pray for us! Nothing like moving with a pregnant woman around the holidays. Scratch that, pray for my husband!! Ha! ;) ...

Meeting Santa Claus

2011-11-29T07:25:00.000-08:00

This weekend we took Belle to meet Santa!! After talking about it for ~ 20 minutes (in line) she finally agreed that it would be a good idea to sit on his lap and take a picture. Lots of coaxing for sure!! Santa was so sweet and precious and even had a Scottish accent to boot!! Belle ended up loving him and they chatted about hula hoops and tea sets for about 5 minutes. Love it!

We bought the professional pic and it was surprisingly great quality. Here are some fun one's that I took on my phone while she was telling him all about her Christmas wish list. :)

I imagine she is saying "I want a hula hoop, tea set, doll house, No wait Santa, there is much more"

haha!! :)

McQuire Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-29T07:11:00.000-08:00

We have been so busy already this holiday season. With a giant extended family we always do what I (sometimes) affectionately refer to as the "Tour de Tejas" during the holiday's!! ;) This Thanksgiving was no different. After we had a quick Thanksgiving lunch with my family we hopped in the car and drove to College Station to see our HORNS bring home a well fought victory over the Aggies. This is the last game we will play them because they are moving to the SEC, so it was a pretty big deal. We were the only Longhorns in our suite so it was interesting to say the least. But, I'm happy we went and can say we were there. HOOK'EM HORNS!!

This girl was in the suite next door to ours at the game. She and Campbell became fast friends!! Ha!

And... perfection she was wearing an 'Earl Campbell' jersey...meant to be! :)

On Friday we drove to Gonzales, Texas to our family's Ranch. It's always so fun to be out there and just relax. Campbell simply loves it and seeing all the animals is so much fun! It's an exotic game ranch so there are literally zebras, antelope, Oracs etc... it's pretty cool. Plus my precious angel nieces just dote on Campbell the entire time we are there. They play with her, hold her hand and help her with anything she may want to do. It's really the sweetest thing EVER!!

Saturday we did a Smith (my maiden name) Family tradition which is to go to Boerne, Texas for their annual "Dickens on Main". It's a fun night full of shopping, eating, and music. It's seriously such a precious town and we as always had a great time.

Sunday ... (gotta finish out the busy weekend in style, ha) after church we went to the 'Steiner Ranch Steak House' for brunch with my MIL who was in town. We had heard great things and had never been, and it did not disappoint!! The brunch and service were wonderful. The restaurant is gorgeous and tranquil, needless to say we will be back very soon! Yum!

I took like zero pictures all weekend because we were running around from place to place... I know, LAME!! :( ... But, I do have some of baby girl at her school 'Thanksgiving Feast' that was on the Monday before Thanksgiving.

Hope y'all had a wonderful Thanksgiving too!! xoxo

Happy Thanksgiving

2011-11-22T07:54:00.000-08:00

HAPPY THANKSGIVING

From our house to yours.

With Lots of Love & Thankfulness, may your Thanksgiving be Blessed.

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

2011-11-17T12:06:00.000-08:00

I have been blessed to share my life with my precious husband for almost 10 years! I can hardly believe that myself...today we celebrate 4 years of blessed marriage. In a world full of uncertainty, one thing that is for certain is that I couldn't imagine doing this life without him right by my side.

Happy Anniversary to my very best friend and love of my life.

(just think babe, this time next year we will have TWO teeny babes in our arms :)

Big Favor

2011-11-17T06:58:00.000-08:00

UPDATE: HOUSE RENTED!!!!

Hey sweet friends, I have a huge favor to ask... if you know anyone that lives or is moving to Austin and may want to rent a 2 bedroom/1bath house in Westlake (EANES school district) Please send them my way!!

The house comes with lake membership which is paid for by the landlord and includes: Private Lake Austin access, park, pool and clubhouse.

Here are a few pics:

House is available December 20th.

For additional information please feel free to email me @:

bts2483@yahoo.com

Thank you so much for passing this on!! xoxo

We be ballin'

2011-11-16T08:45:00.000-08:00

One of the best perks of my husband's job are the AWESOME UT basketball tickets (literally floor seats, row 1)!! We went to a ton of games last season and we started this season yesterday. Belle loves the games, they are fast paced and all the dancers and cheerleaders, she adores it!! Even better UT BEAT Rhode Island 100-90 WOO HOO!!!

Another AWESOME encounter...after we sat down about 10 minutes later KEVIN DURANT & TRISTAN THOMPSON sat down RIGHT IN FRONT OF US!!! My husband was in awe and acted like a kid at Christmas! :) They were so kind and gracious and signed endless autographs and took even more pics with fans, so nice. AND...OH YES my husband was most certainly one of those fans! HA!

SO excited to see BEVO!!

Love!!

Kevin Durant!!

(Kyle has the pics of Tristan Thompson on his phone so I'll have to add those later)

AND...it actually rained and stormed in Austin yesterday!!

SO, I totally rocked my Longhorn Wellies!!

The Hubs & I

We had a great family day cheering on our HORNS!!

Daddy's Happy Birthday & a Mommy-Campbell Date

2011-11-15T05:45:00.000-08:00

My precious husband celebrated his birthday on the 9th and we were so happy to celebrate him. Belle and I baked him his favorite (sugar-free) cake (I know gag me but, I digress b/c he loves it) ... Belle added lots of sprinkles for good measure and we even got some fun sparkler candles and balloons. Kyle plays in a co-ed softball league with work so that's where we started the night. We cheered on his team to victory and then off to a birthday dinner. When we got home we ate a lot of cake...plates optional! :)

Belle had been asking me to go see the new "Puss in Boots" movie (she called it "the kitty movie") for a couple weeks. So, I decided Saturday afternoon was the perfect opportunity. Whenever Kyle or I take Campbell one on one she always calls it a date, so sweet! She was pretty excited for her "Mommy-Campbell movie date" ...

Super High-Quality iphone in the dark pics! ;)

getting comfy and waiting for the movie to start...

Love.

To round out the weekend we decided to take the boat out on one last joy ride before winter is officially here. If that ever happens, so ready for much cooler weather. I will say having this boat has been a serious undertaking, they need SO MUCH maintenance it's pretty ridiculous. BUT, when we are out there my two favorites just light up! They love themselves some lake time.

Captain Campbell and her trusty skipper, Daddy.

And just one more random from my phone, because she's so darn cute!

Pretty sure she was singing "You are my Sunshine" when I took this...sweetness!!

Keeping my fingers crossed that the weather man is correct today and Austin gets some RAIN!!! ...

We are off to shower, get dressed and fed before heading to the UT basketball game this afternoon!

HOOK'EM HORNS!!

Christmas is COMING!!!

2011-11-14T14:16:00.000-08:00

Y'all Christmas is literally creeping up behind me AS WE SPEAK... oh goodness I am NOT prepared. I absolutely adore the holidays and NO I am not forgetting Thanksgiving, which I love too. But, the preparations for Christmas always seem to overwhelm me. ...What color scheme will the tree be?... and then we must coordinate the wrapping paper :) ... and then there is this looming possibility that we could be moving come this joyous time of the year. Can you just see my head spinning off my shoulders? Oh and I'm pregnant and moving things around the house to suit my decor needs is becoming increasingly more difficult. OH, and the first week-ish of December we have family pictures planned with an amazing photographer. ... I can't even look at what I just typed above without getting tired. Ha! ... But, I have been pin, pin, pinning some fun Christmas pictures/ideas that I will just stare at for inspiration. Ya know, instead of actually doing something really productive.

Love the color blocking ombre effect on this tree...

I love all the color in these ornament wreaths!

These burlap stockings are exactly my taste & personalized!!

Loving the pink & green color scheme

Who doesn't love getting a photo Christmas card?

Happy Monday Y'all hope it's been Merry & Bright! (what too soon?) Oh okay, Gobble Gobble!! :)

Updates & October Recap!

2011-11-08T13:55:00.000-08:00

Well, it seems that I keep falling off the blog-wagon lately...can't seem to get organized enough to actually post anything. Here's a quick rundown of what we've been up to.

-Nashville Vacation, 5 glorious days!
-I celebrated my 28th Birthday.
-We have been avidly looking for a bigger house to buy here in Austin.
-Halloween: lots of Trick or Treating fun!
-Baby Dr appts. & we know what we're having and we are beyond excited (more on that later)
-Meeting with Builders and researching lots - meeting today!
-Stomach Bug that has just finished making it's way through the McQuire family, UGH :(
-Kyle's Birthday is tomorrow
-Wedding Anniversary in a week ...

Lots going on and lots left to do...

I have been so terrible about baby updates and taking baby bump pictures. But, you're in luck as I took one just the other night. Now please no judgement, this is my second child and OH MY WORD this bump popped out about a million weeks earlier than with Belle.

I'm wearing black so it was hard to get a good angle, but you can still see that little nugget. :)

(please ignore the disaster that is our family room in the background. I won't lie, it almost always looks just like that)

Baby #2 Update:

-15.5 weeks

-Size of an avocado

-No kicking yet but, my OBGYN said I may start to feel it by 16 weeks!

-Feeling much better and have a lot more energy, loving the second trimester.

-So, like I said above we already know the sex. We were lucky enough to get a good shot during my ultrasound and just like big sister we were able to find out early! But, I am going to wait until my 18 week ultrasound before we make the big reveal, just to be sure. She said she was 95% positive...but we will wait for extra confirmation!

Halloween was so much fun this year (just like last). I love Fall, pumpkins, candy, the decor...LOVE IT! So, we really get into it at my house and my Mom always goes ALL OUT, she is slightly obsessed. :) I will only post a couple Trick or Treating pics since I have about 167... ha!

Trick or Treating!!

Nonnie & her Belle

Family shot! :)

Next year we will have a 6 month old and a 3.5 year old...WOW!

Love!

Belle was a cowgirl complete with horse and hat!

She loves to dress up and changed her mind about what she wanted to be about 100 times before Halloween.

Hope y'all had a wonderful October and are already having a very THANKFUL November!! xoxo

Pics at the Park

2011-10-17T11:23:00.000-07:00

We have been visiting the park a lot lately since the weather has cooled down a bit. Belle LOVES being outside and especially the park. Here are some sweet shots of my big girl playing, sliding and swinging.

Baby Update

2011-10-17T10:26:00.000-07:00

We are officially 12 weeks today, 3 months. I am feeling a little bit better but, still taking my Zofran about every couple of days. The baby as of our last appointment looked perfect and healthy. Continuing to pray that everything stays that same way throughout. :)

Stats:

*3 months (12 weeks)

*Craving sweets & food in general (bottomless pit)

* Still tired, getting better. Still feeling sick, getting better too.

*Due Date: April 30, 2012

* Baby Size: Large Plum/Peach

Sweet baby angel #2:

We find out what the baby's gender is the first week of December, couldn't think of a better Christmas gift! :)

SURPRISE for Daddy

2011-10-04T07:33:00.000-07:00

Kyle and I had been trying for baby #2 for a few months with no luck ... so when Kyle left on a 10-day business trip I thought any day I'd get confirmation that this month we weren't pregnant either. I was feeling light cramping and made the premature phone call to the hubs and told him...nope not this month for us. Then a few days later, still nothing. Then another, nothing... so with some urging from the BFF (who knows things even before my husband, ha!! what can I say...??) I went and bought the cheapest pregnancy test ever. I didn't think I was pregnant and did not feel like spending $40 (okay, that's a slight exaggeration but, seriously tests are so expensive these days) on a test that I was sure was going to say negative. So after breakfast I took the test and wouldn't you know it ... POSITIVE!!!! I was literally shaking and thought this has to be wrong?!!? So of course as any girl would do I texted a pic of my pregnancy test/stick to my BFF and she called immediately and together we decided - I'm pregnant! ha! :)

With Kyle still out of town for at least 3 more days I decided that I did not want to tell him over the phone. So, Campbell and I planned a secret mission to surprise him at the airport and tell him in person about the baby news.

Practicing holding our sign for Daddy before leaving for the airport.

going really well, as you can see. ;)

There we go!

The sign read:

Welcome Home Daddy and SURPRISE baby #2 is on the way!!!!

Belle was really proud of her "Big Sister" shirt too!

She wears it all the time.

Having a snack at the airport while we wait for Daddy.

SURPRISE!!!

Hysterical- at first Kyle didn't read the sign and thought we were just surprising him at the airport. Ha! It took him awhile to put it all together. Once he did he was shocked and so excited!! Happy, happy, day!

The happy soon-to-be family of 4!!

(Don't look at my face...blah!)

Thank you & Twitter ...

2011-10-04T07:07:00.000-07:00

Just another update... Sorry I have been blogger & Twitter MIA. I closed my Twitter account awhile ago, can't remember now? I should of let everyone know but, I was feeling a tad overwhelmed with all the social media and just wanted a break. Unfortunately, Twitter is not like Facebook where you can close and re-open on a whim. So, I think for now Twitter and I are still calling it quits but, I do miss talking with all of you on a daily basis. Just need to concentrate on family time and when I did it we were still "trying" for this bundle of love that is now in my tummy. :) ... I went on a blogging hiatus due to my permanent move to the bathroom where I spent most of the first weeks of this pregnancy and we aren't out of the woods just yet. Sorry for the TMI, gross I know...and blogging had to take a backseat due to the fact that I could barely hold my head up, so true I am/was a mess.

I also wanted to say THANK YOU to all of you and the outpouring of love and congratulations on Facebook and this blog. It means so much to me and I feel so blessed!! What a wonderful feeling it's been to know how happy so many sweet friends are for our little family. Thank you from my whole heart.

And just for fun some cute pics of my precious first baby angel and her first trip to Amy's (an Austin ice cream staple) ...

We decided on sweet cream and chocolate sprinkles. Simple & delicious.

Hiking Meets MY Prima Ballerina

2011-10-03T10:23:00.000-07:00

So, Saturday since the weather was absolutely GORGEOUS, Kyle and I decided to load up the baby girl and go for a hike in the Zilker greenbelt. We first stopped my Rudy's for breakfast tacos to feed the always hungry preggo.

When we got to the entrance of the greenbelt Belle was totally gung-ho for the family hike. About 10 minutes in she started to change her tune :) ... and of course she was sporting her "Prima Ballerina"
t-shirt, more than fitting for her sassy attitude. Ha!

Checking out the map with Daddy.

My two loves!

And of course we definitely needed a walking stick...

And we're off!!

Done with the walking...

and the pouting begins. :)

Oh, and the handsome Hubs too!!

Lesson learned...always bring the jogging stroller on family nature hikes, case closed!

Baby, Baby, Baby...#2!!!!

2011-10-03T09:52:00.000-07:00

That's right folks we are expecting baby #2 and will become a family of 4 on April 30th!! I cannot tell you how happy we are, simply thrilled. We are feeling abundantly blessed and continue to pray for a healthy baby.

This pregnancy is NOTHING like Belle's... I have been SICK, NAUSEOUS, EXHAUSTED...in short just a real fun time to be around, ha! I'm starting to see the light at the end of the tunnel as I approach the second trimester. Hoping the sickness will subside by then. Until then, it's naps, Zofran, saltines and water for this mama.

I'm going to try and do updates on the pregnancy and document it, we shall see... Here are my stats as of today:

* I am .... 10 weeks
*Craving ... anything and everything, it changes daily. Sugar & sweet seem to be a constant.
*Feeling ... Sick, nauseous and tired
*Bump status ... I swear I already have one. :/ ha!

Hope everyone is having a great Monday! We go in for our second Dr.'s appointment tomorrow and I cannot wait to see our 2nd baby angel, again. xoxo

First Day of Pre-School

2011-09-07T08:51:00.000-07:00

So, today was the BIG day!! I just got back from dropping Belle off at "pre-school" ...really it's a MDO program that they call pre-school. She goes from 9:00am-1:30pm so just enough time I think for my tiny 2.5 year old. ;)

The sign says:

"First Day of Pre-School"

September 7, 2011

I was so nervous when I woke up this morning, seriously tons of nervous energy. I kinda felt like the first day of high school, all the pressure...okay, yes I know I'm dramatic. Belle woke up super excited and ready to leave for school the minute her head was off the pillow.

Belle LOVES this Olivia backpack!!

My precious angel!!

We had the easiest drop-off EVER!! "Bye Mom, see ya later"... can't wait to find out how her day went. Counting down the hours... Oh Mama! Ha!

Happy Wednesday, Y'all ...

Tubbin'

2011-09-07T08:35:00.000-07:00

For the first time ever Belle rode the tube on the back of the boat, with Daddy of course!! :) She was nervous at first but warmed up to it instantly. She even stood up at one point and screamed "GO FASTER" aww, my brave little pumpkin!!

"GO FASTER" ...

haha are you laughing??? SO FUNNY!!!

Never cease to sing HIS praise!

2011-08-28T13:59:00.000-07:00

& always ...

My Little Hamburger Helper

2011-08-26T13:46:00.000-07:00

Belle and I had such a fun Mommy-Daughter lunch date today. We decided after much deliberation to eat at P.Terry's because baby girl LOVES their french fries. The HUGE downside, they don't have a children's menu. SAY WHAT?! Who opens a fast food burger joint without kiddo options? Not a genius business move. Sooo, I decided to go out on a limb and get Belle a cheeseburger. This is UNHEARD of at our house. She is a chicken tender baby inside & out. I can NEVER get her to eat beef, and believe me we've tried. AND, because I am so not above bribery I decided to also order a double chocolate milkshake for the table, ha!

That's when the big shocker happened (drum-roll please) She totally LIKED & ATE it!!! I mean oh happy joy, joy!!! My baby will now eat cheeseburgers. After I picked my jaw up off the table we promptly called Daddy to tell him. ...Wow, after re-reading the above this thought popped into my head "you know you're a geeky parent when _____________" this is what excitement is at McQuire house. ;)

We also got a phone call from Belle's new teacher (haven't met her yet) while we were eating. It was such a wonderful surprise and she seems so sweet and kind on the phone. I just cannot wait for my teeny baby to start school. She is just going to LOVE it, I know!! She kept saying "Oh mommy it's so exciting" when I told her who was on the phone. Oh how I simply adore this precious personality that she has developed.

Here is my lunch date eating a CHEESEBURGER!!! :

Cold Front

2011-08-26T06:22:00.000-07:00

We had a winter wonderful delivery at McQuire house yesterday... the precious coat I ordered from Zulily arrived in our mailbox. I know it may seem crazy to be buying coats (especially if you live near me in Texas...hello 106 everyday) BUT, it was a fantastic deal and too good to pass up. Belle gets SO excited when packages show up at the house she squeals and jumps up and down. Okay that's me, but I swear she's squealing and jumping too. ;)

Once we opened the box Belle demanded a photo shoot (ok guilty, that was me again) ...
Sorry these pics are so blurry and not great quality. I could not get her to sit still at all.

I love the reflection of her happy face in the mirror.

I am so ready for Fall/Winter ... I know I say that a lot alas, it's SO VERY VERY TRUE!! Bring on the colder weather, or a move to Colorado...ya know, whatever I'm flexible. For now we will just hang this coat in Belle's closet and revisit it in say, umm...I don't know... THREE (ish) MONTHS!!! Oh how I wish I was kidding.

Have a great weekend...We will be turning our air conditioning down to 50 degrees and wearing Fall clothes here at my house. Maybe we will bake cookies & carve pumpkins too?! (haha)

Weekend Away & Beaded Bracelets

2011-08-23T06:51:00.000-07:00

We spent the weekend away at a gorgeous wedding. Congratulations Brent & Libby (the most beautiful couple you've ever seen) we had a wonderful time dancing the night away.

We drove in Saturday morning to Dallas (the wedding was Sat. night) and just enjoyed the day being sans child. Kyle and I didn't know what to do with ourselves. We shopped at NorthPark Mall and then had a two hour, mimosa infused lunch, Ha! ... It was such a relaxing weekend and we really enjoyed getting to spend it just the two of us. ...AND, as much as I hate to admit it, I'm pretty sure my precious nugget didn't even notice we were gone. She was with Nonnie, Auntie Shay Shay and Auntie Maddie = Heaven for my toddler.

All spruced up before the wedding:

See those heels, y'all?

I shoved my huge, sprained and swollen ankle into those bad boys.

Pain is beauty, pain is beauty...

Let's just say when I took them off when we got back to the hotel my foot looked like a

GIANT black, green and blue sausage!!! NOT cute!!

The handsome Hubs and I.

Yesterday Belle informed me that she was "bored, mama" so being the southern mama that I am I thought this announcement deserved a trip to the craft holy land ... Hobby Lobby! We perused the aisles until we decided on some beaded bracelet making fun. This is what we designed ...

Watch out Kendra Scott!! :

Making "BUTIFUL bracelets" as Belle would say...

I mean!!!! Go ahead and place your orders now.

"Mommy I love doing craps"

(she meant crafts)

(she could not get the 'FT' in there to save her life)

We walked around Hobby Lobby for a solid 30 minutes while she sang ...

"craps, craps, we're gonna do a crap" ... you just have to smile! HA! :)

So proud! :)

Oh and look, Mommy made some too!

I'm making these for my little sister who placed an order for some stackable bracelets. It was actually a lot more fun than I expected and I've cranked out quite a few, ha.

AND, just because I thought this pic was so sweet. My angel baby up bright & early the other morning watching "Mickey Mouse Clubhouse" ...She has slept with her hands behind her head like that since the day we brought her home from the hospital. Every time she does it I remember when she was this little 7lb. teeny tiny doing the exact same thing. Sweet memory.

Simply Summer

2011-08-19T08:23:00.000-07:00

With pre-school fast approaching (1 week) we have been trying to jam in a lot of fun leisurely activities. And, what better than Oreo cookies and a paddle pool?

I cannot believe this sweet baby nugget is going to be 2.5 in October!!

How is that possible?

Eating the icing first, good girl!

And this picture will tell you just exactly how we feel about Oreo's at the McQuire house.

You can't hear it BUT, I believe she's saying "HALLELUJAH" ...

Have a great weekend.

We are headed to Dallas to celebrate with our precious friends

Brent & Libby, at their no doubt gorgeous wedding.

Best Friends are the BEST (especially when you're a hot mess)

2011-08-18T09:42:00.000-07:00

This week has been stress filled to say the least. Trying to get my family organized to go out of town, spraining my ankle and rendering myself completely useless. Finding out last minute that my husband is going out of town for work right after we attend a wedding. Having to get all Belle's paperwork for "pre-school" turned in. Then family coming in to town to visit. I'm a hot mess folks!!

Knowing all of this in graphic detail my sweet BFFE took it upon herself to put a smile on my face all the way from Houston. Mrs. Tichenor (The Tichenor Family) I love you to the moon and back. Thank you for your generosity, laughter, listening and best of all your friendship. We truly are quite the gruesome twosome, Ha! :) ...

Look what this precious mama sent me:

Tiff's Treats

is a homemade cookie delivery here in Austin and they are amazing!!

AND... they always deliver them WARM!! YUM!!!

Can I open this??

As you can see someone else was also

REALLY excited about this special delivery!! :)

AND... if that wasn't enough... how about this present that came to my mailbox earlier in the week:

A Lauren Elan "Friendship Bracelet" ... LOVE IT!! Wear it everyday! So blessed by your friendship, Mer, Thank you!

I got the green one

I had an actual pic of myself wearing it but, my iphone is choosing to not let me upload it...

Ugh, I digress!

See how sweet and thoughtful she is?!?! I mean, I'm a lucky girl.

And, just for funsies here are some pics:

“Friends make the bad times good — and the good times unforgettable.”

A true friend reaches for your hand and touches your heart. ~ Heather Pryor

Hold a true friend with both your hands. ~Nigerian Proverb

Thank you Mer, for always thinking of me and making me feel so special this week. Good, bad, and ugly we have stuck together and I feel abundantly blessed by you everyday.

I love you. xoxo

*please ignore the "font crisis" that my blog is currently having. I couldn't get it to cooperate.

This & That

2011-08-16T06:13:00.000-07:00

I have a lot of randomness in the way of pictures on my iPhone ... you're welcome ...

My child, in a nutshell.

My little cupcake face!

So happy to have a cookie and be out in public in Pj's

...that's just how we roll folks!

This picture just makes me laugh ... the caption should read

"WHAT" (in gangsta voice)... no?! ;)

What?! You don't brush your teeth wearing every necklace & headband you can find?

Happy Tuesday, Y'all.

Gone Fishin'

2011-08-16T06:01:00.000-07:00

Yet again we were out on Lake Austin this weekend soaking up that relentless 106 degree sunshine. We decided last minute to bring Belle's pink Barbie fishing pole with us so she could "go fishing." I have never seen a child more excited to get out on the water and catch some fish!! :) She is still talking about it, I think she had fun, ha!

Assuming the "fishing position"...

Since we didn't bring any bait, Daddy the good sport offered to be the "fish"

(can you see the "hook" in his mouth) :)

Reeling him in! Love this stance!! HA.

Caughtcha Daddy!!

Success!!!

Taking the hook out. I told her we were practicing the "catch & release" method...

but, alas she wouldn't throw him back!! haha, just kidding...love you, babe!!

This is the closest thing to a smile that I could get...

Belle also LOVES to "drive the boat" ...

Then if "fishing" wasn't enough excitement for the day... Mommy (me) decided to slip on the boat dock and sprain my ankle, wish I could say I was water skiing, wake boarding etc... (because we all know what a stellar athlete I am, DUH) But, NO ...I was merely walking to untie the boat from the dock. Only look at the picture below if you want to see you breakfast/lunch/dinner again, barf! ...

I'm sorry, I don't know what possessed me to post this nasty picture?! I apologize!!

Hope y'all had a wonderful weekend ... xoxo

Sunday Funday

2011-08-08T07:55:00.000-07:00

We had a pretty mellow weekend, it was nice to not have a million places to be. Friday night my sweet sister came over and babysat Belle while Kyle and I went to dinner. It was nice to be able to just talk to my husband without a toddler climbing up my leg, Ha. Then on Saturday we had a girls day of lunching and shopping just my Mom, sister, Belle and me. Kyle headed out to Marble Falls area (while we shopped) for a 30k (~19 miles) which he finished in 3 hours & 45min, like a champ! He was disappointed but I was impressed. :)
...Sunday, since K had gotten home so late Saturday night and was feeling exhausted we decided to skip Church (we never do this) and just sleep in and hang out in pajamas for a better part of the morning (everyone dressed by 12:30, not too bad) Once we were dressed we headed out to the lake for some swimming. When it's 106 degrees outside that 60 ish degree water feels amazing!! No complaints here!!

Here is my little fish swimming with her Daddy:

Lake Austin

I had some EPIC lake hair...don't judge. ;)

Dress me up & Take me out

2011-07-29T10:31:00.000-07:00

Oh look! ...I'm shopping AGAIN ... and instead of "Oh look" my husband is probably saying

"Oh ___" ... (enter any four letter word you can think of here) . But, he knew what he was getting when he married me, so don't feel bad for him or his wallet (it's crying can you hear it?) ....

I'm NOT a Summer girl by any stretch of the imagination. I wasn't built for unbearable heat, I don't like to sweat, frankly it just makes me uncomfortable and mean. I think Summer clothes lack imagination, you have to accessorize them into an oblivion to give it the kick it needs to say "this girl, well she's got it goin' on" ...Now, don't get me wrong...I love a good tan, the lake, cocktails by the pool and all that jazz. BUT, come on! It's freaking 110 degrees everyday, you can't be out there for more that 30 minutes. Oh, and let's not even go into the 3rd degree burns I gave myself when I sat on the leather seats of my car the other day. No joke I thought we may need to run by the ER just to be sure I didn't really injure myself. Note to self: Mind the thighs when wearing shorts & skirts & dresses okay well that's my entire Summer wardrobe so the lesson here is -- You must always mind the thighs! YOWZA. ...Now that we have all been updated on how I feel where this season is concerned it will be no surprise that I am looking forward to Fall and tights and boots and cardigans and ...

Here are some GO-TO Fall outfits that will be in my closet Rolodex asap & some pieces that I already own:

Forever 21: Leather & Gold Cuff

perfect addition to any Fall/Winter outfit to give some edginess.

Forever 21: I say- layer as many bracelets on your wrist as you want!

A cluttered wrist is a happy wrist! ;)

Gucci Handbag! Yum!

I would add silver bangles & hoops.

A charcoal gray boot, w/ my hair in a high ponytail.

Tory Burch Riding Boot = Perfection.

Nordstrom: Cotton Pinstripe Blazer.

This is wonderful because it can be dressed up and down.

Orange Jeans and just colorful denim will be a trend that stays through to Winter from Summer.

Fall/Winter shades: Indigo Blue, Dark Purple, Green, Red, Orange!! So fun and can be worn as simply as you wear regular jeans.

Head to toe, I love everything about this look!

You must own a leopard something for EVERY season!

H&M ...I will be traveling to Dallas so that I can shop here.

I would wear this with black or gray skinny jeans and ballet flats.

A chunky watch and dainty long gold necklace.

H&M ...

A bright hot pink cardigan, black tights and honey brown boots w/ turquoise jewelry.

Thinking about Fall and pretending I'm not dying in this unrelenting heat is what I will be doing today. ;) Bring on the Pumpkins, Fall leaves & College Football!!! This girl, she's ready!

What a mess...I hate stress~

2011-07-29T09:17:00.000-07:00

I think Zac Brown Band says it best...Sometimes you just gotta... let it go!

Spent the night with a friend of mine and a handle of good whiskey
We picked guitars and talked about how the glory days we missed 'em
And it didn't take too long to find the truth inside that bottle
Cast a-sea so long ago was a message from my father.

You keep your heart above your head and you eyes wide open
So this world can't find a way to leave you cold
And know you're not the only ship out on the ocean
Save your strength for things that you can change
Forgive the ones you can't
You gotta let 'em go

Looking back now on my life I can't say I regret it
And all the places that I ended up not the way Ma woulda had it
But you only get once chance at life to leave your mark upon it
And when a pony he comes riding by you better set your sweet ass on it

You keep your heart above your head and you eyes wide open
So this world can't find a way to leave you cold
And know you're not the only ship out on the ocean
Save your strength for things that you can change
Forgive the ones you can't
You gotta let 'em go

Like a sweet sunset in Georgia let it go
And like the fear that grabs ahold ya let it go
Let it go
Let it go

You keep your heart above your head and you eyes wide open
So this world can't find a way to leave you cold
And know you're not the only ship out on the ocean
Save your strength for things that you can change
Forgive the ones you can't
You gotta let 'em go

*song lyrics by Zac Brown Band "Let it Go"

Grandpa & His Girls

2011-07-25T08:02:00.000-07:00

Our favorite Papa Gene came for a visit yesterday and it was such a special treat!! We also got a wonderful surprise when we got to see two of my precious nieces (we missed you Kelsey & Hailey) and Belle's cousins, Sydney & Camryn. We went to Church and then had an amazing brunch at Chez Zee, one of our favorite brunch places that we haven't been to in ages!! Bring on the Creme Brule French Toast!! SO GOOD!!

(these pics are terrible quality, but so sweet)

My baby, Belle.

Papa Gene & Belle

Daddy & Belle

Giving precious Camryn a hug!

Three of my favorites!!

LOVE!

Taking a little juice break... ;)

We had a long, HOT, weekend hanging out with family & friends. Hope y'all had a good one too!

Pinnable Me: I need a Pintervention!

2011-07-22T09:05:00.000-07:00

Y'ALL, someone needs to stop me, I'm a pinning fool!!! I can't help myself, I'm obsessed. If you follow me you know that I probably pin at least 10 ish things a day. In my defense, our rental house is a 'ranch style shoe-box' it's small and when Belle is napping, I pin. If I do dishes or laundry- both rooms are across from her bedroom door, I will wake her. It's happened numerous times, I wouldn't lie to you. Ugh, so I'm forced to find other forms of entertainment, enter PINTEREST and my sick, sick obsession with decorating homes/rooms that I do not possess. Or my other issue, shopping...clothes, shoes, clutches, totes, nail polish, outfits for BELLE...I NEED it, the end.
For years I was a retail buyer and I think it's impossible for me to separate myself from that identity. I loved that job, still do. Also, in my pretend life where I live in my pretend house...I may fancy myself as a high end pretend interior designer. Oh the dreams I dream, my friends.

Well, enough about this girl and her crazy, it's in abundance, you know. Without further adieu what I am pinning and LOVING as of late. No theme here girls, just gorgeous pictures. ;)

Shabby Slips

Houston, Texas

polyvore

That's right! Don't you tag me in a fugly picture!

Janice Minor Chandelier

decor pad

Nordstrom

Betsey Johnson

New Traditionalists Crib

Wildkins Lunchbox

Wildkins Backpack

How I freaking feel about any and ALL birds!!

Any day an intervention therapist is going to show up at my door and try to pry this macbook out of my cold, tight, grip. Until then you should join me and my friends and PIN!!

As always do like me and link up with Stefanie at www.zachandstefanieclark.blogspot.com she started this great post series... and it's always fun to see what other people are pinning and loving. Most a lot less pin-crazy than me, I promise!!

Horseshoe Bay

2011-07-18T07:46:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we went on a couples trip to Horseshoe Bay, Texas. A resort community that sits on Lake LBJ. We spent the entire weekend out on the boat, jet ski's and tube...grilling fajitas, making margaritas and playing games. It was a break this mama was in much need of. Our sweet baby nugget spent the weekend with her Nonnie and I'm pretty sure she was not thrilled to see us Sunday afternoon when we came to pick her up, ha!

I took like three pictures because I'm lame like that, Ugh...I guess it means I was having too much fun to remember my camera. ... these are the three kodak moments I did snag:

Our boat Captain, Chris! Kept us safe and sound on the water. ;)

HA!! Drake & John on the tube.

Pretty sure I've never laughed so hard in my life!

The girls minus Veronica who was at the back of the boat. I need to track down a pic of all the girls...Love them so much!! We laughed so hard we literally cried all weekend long.

Summertime!

2011-07-15T09:44:00.000-07:00

All we need at the McQuire house is a swim diaper, t-shirt & water table... = Perfect relief for this HOT Texas weather!!

Happy Summer Y'all! xo

All you need is LOVE.

2011-07-11T09:59:00.000-07:00

A Nonnie, Auntie Maddie & Belle Photo Shoot.

Makes my heart happy!

4th of July 2011

2011-07-06T13:41:00.000-07:00

We had a nice long weekend in Houston...family, friends & food. I seriously took ZERO pictures and I'm so bummed about that... here are a few that I borrowed from family. ;)

Belle had so much fun playing with all her friends...

She was wiped out by the end of the weekend

We spent A LOT of the time of at the pool. You cannot survive a Texas Summer without some kind of water...Lake, Pool, Ocean, Splash pad ...we love it all!

Belle has a tricycle at Grandma Diane's house and she LOVES it!

We may need to get one for her at our house ... Can you tell she'd been outside for awhile?

Crazy headband and sweaty, filthy child, love her. She looks like she's 12 in this picture...slow down!

Hope y'all had a wonderful holiday...Happy Birthday America!

Pinnable Me

2011-06-24T08:28:00.000-07:00

Are y'all "Pinning"?? ...Me oh my, I am addicted and really need to back away from the computer & get some dang laundry done. Pinterest is a time suck and makes my mind go about a million different directions. Especially in the area of Home & Clothes...have mercy I could do it all day. Makes me want to play dress up in my pretend mansion! Here is what I am lusting after as of late...

Marjorie Skouras Chandelier

Scotch Nail polish

www.scotchnaturals.com

Via etsy

Michael Kors -Via Nordstrom

There are so many amazing finds,incredible crafts, desserts & recipes to be discovered. Millions of boards to explore and websites to shop! ;) It's a wonderful creative outlet and way to pin & repin Internet favorites that you're saving for a possible child, home or dinner party. I love it!

And, link up with sweet Stefanie at :

www.zachandstefanieclark.blogspot.com

She is the one that has started this awesome series "Pinnable Me" where you can share your favorite things. I love it, and I am so excited that I finally get to participate. Thank you Stef, for hosting this great post series.

Father's Day!

2011-06-20T19:16:00.000-07:00

Kyle and I have been together for 9 years ...we started dating when he was 17!! In many ways we grew up together. We've made huge life decisions, none greater than having a child. Pregnancy brings so much worry, will I be a good Mom, will I know what to do?, will I do it right?, will this child love me as I love her...But, with all that worry came something even more powerful, I knew my husband was going to be an amazing Father. I knew he would protect her to the ends of the earth and love her without fail, showing our daughter his entire heart. That simple knowledge relieved more fear I had of becoming a Mother than anything else. Knowing that my partner was as dedicated as me made parenthood less scary and more exciting. I couldn't be the Mother I am, without Kyle being the Father and Husband he is. Campbell and I are blessed beyond what we deserve. He's a pretty BIG deal around these parts.

"The greatest gift I ever had came from God, and I call him Dad"

-Unknown

"A daughter may outgrow your lap, but she will never outgrow your heart."

-Unknown

"A truly rich man is one whose children run into his arms when his hands are empty"

-Unknown

"Blessed indeed is the man who hears many gentle voices call him father"

-Lydia M. Child

WE LOVE YOU DADDY!! xoxo

iPhone Update ...

2011-06-14T08:49:00.000-07:00

I have some serious randomness on my iPhone in the way of pictures... & a lack of any inspiration for a blog post SO, ... Here ya go, this is what my phone says we've been up to:

Belle got up the other morning with some EPIC bed head!! It cracked me UP! :)

FIERCE!!

Oh baby girl...Mama loves you.

We made a trip to Houston to help set-up and party with the Tichenor family for Slade's

FIRST BIRTHDAY!!

Well, while we were there Belle became OBSESSED with Carson's little bike.

We may need this at the McQuire house.

AND...even though I don't have a picture I'd like to give a SHOUT OUT to Meredith's Mom, Jill. Belle was infatuated with "JiJi" ...pretty sure she thought Jill was HER JiJi.

Jill, thank you for extending such warmth and love to my baby. She has been talking about you for days. Your time together will always be such a special memory for her and me. xoxo We love you!

Belle with a mouthful of juice...

I have zero quality pictures from Slade's party, so bummed about that!

The party was amazing and everyone had a great time...the decor and details were incredible. We loved every minute of it and feel so blessed to have been there & celebrate someone who is so special to our family, Baby Slade ...Auntie Britt,Uncle Tank & Belle love you.

Hi, Birthday Boy!!! So handsome!!

Look at his cute outfit!!

Monogrammed by Haley's grandma...so precious!

Belle doing a little dance before the party.

Belle was also super excited to have a cupcake...

especially when it's Funfetti, which is the BEST!

This girl is JUST like her mama, loves her cake!!

After the party on the way home...

Literally 5 MINUTES after pulling out of the driveway.

Yesterday we went to Target to get ...

Well I have NO idea...But, seems we always have to go to Target! :)

While we were there Belle found this Hello Kitty watch. It was LOVE at first sight.

So happy Mommy said YES we can take it home! Ha!

...Actually she called Daddy at work... such a pushover that one.

Today we are headed to the pool to soak up some of the 102 degree Texas SUN! ...Should be exhausting & fun. :) Belle is ecstatic that we are going to play at the Splash Pad, she would never leave if it was up to her.

HAPPY TUESDAY, Y'all.

Zilker by way of Sonic ...

2011-06-06T14:24:00.000-07:00

Two of our play dates for last week got cancelled due to some serious genius. The water splash-pad was closed for maintenance in the middle of the week at the beginning of Summer...someone was sure using their thinking cap. Note to the City: Do maintenance prior to SUMMER...(I'm just sayin') and before you get all crazy... this wasn't like it was working and just broke down. It's the annual tune up scheduled for the same day it was supposed to open, again I applaud the genius. The second play date was with my sweet SIL at her neighborhood pool but, that got cancelled because people can be so careless and messy on holiday weekends. Party at the pool + no one cleaning up after themselves = crabby toddler because pool is CLOSED! ... SO, I knew this week I was going to have to step-up my Mommy game. Pull out the big guns and ~~suffer~~ play outside in the heat. I decided what better way then to run by ~~Whole Foods~~ Sonic for some ~~healthy~~ lunch and then head over to Zilker Park to spend the afternoon ~~melting~~ playing in the heat. :)

Belle loves a good park, naturally as any two year old does. So, she was STOKED to find out we were visiting the "big park" instead of just our smaller neighborhood swing set. Pretty sure I made up for last week ...all she needed was a good slide and an apple juice slush.

20,000 park pictures, enjoy:

On our way to Zilker!!

Lunch of CHAMPIONS!! Sonic corn dog, yum!

Apple juice slush!! Get in my belly!!

Coming down the tunnel slide

Driving The Zilker Fire Truck

parking the car ... mouth full of fries...

Can you find Baby Belle?

Here she comes...

(Wow, thanks blogger for loading them out of order??? Ugh, I don't have the patience to fix it...sorry)

Great day...Just me and my girl...

Double Date

2011-06-06T08:13:00.000-07:00

We had such an awesome weekend, really just so much fun! Some of our favorite friends, Mitch & Sam came into town for some boating and the Pat Green/Cory Morrow concert. The weather was gorgeous and the concert really was the best I've seen in a really long time. My wonderful Mom and baby sister offered to babysit so we could have a much needed night out with friends. :) ...also, honestly WHAT is better than people watching at a concert?? Sam and I really had the best time just taking in the locals...haha... oh geeze, good stuff!

This picture cracks me up!!! HA! ...love their matching outfits. Sweet BFF's!

My DELICIOUS funnel cake!!! Wish I was eating it all over again, RIGHT NOW!!

Sam & I

...she is just the sweetest girl you could ever meet, Love her!

Hubs & I

The Gang...Gorgeous night, Great music & the BEST company!!

(look at my big swollen sun-burned face...BLAH)

Mitch & Sam

Roger Creager playing ... he even did some Billy Joel covers (MY FAVORITE) he was SO GOOD!!

The concert was:

The Zach Walther Band, Roger Creager, Cory Morrow & Pat Green!!

FABULOUS SHOW!!

We spent the day at the lake before going to the concert.

While we were out there we saw these old cars that they had converted to boats!!

LOVE them, so fun!!!

More "boat-cars" :)

Hope y'all had a glorious Summer weekend as well!! xoxo

PS: This little nugget (below) learned how to open the refrigerator this past week. This is what I caught her with, RED handed... sprayed ALL over the kitchen!!

Memorial Day Weekend- 2011

2011-05-31T08:26:00.000-07:00

As always I would first and foremost like to thank all of the Veterans for their service and sacrifice. Active, retired or those who have given the ultimate sacrifice, their life to protect our freedom. Those men & women are so selfless and courageous my heart is always with them and their families. Thank you for your service.

We had a great (busy) Memorial Day weekend. My Dad was in town to visit us so we took "Papa" out on the boat Saturday and Belle was excited to show him what a sailor she has become. Ha! We must of heard "Papa Look, Papa Look" a million times while out on the boat. So sweet that she wanted to share every little thing with him. Then we headed home and made delicious fajitas while Papa and Belle watched Tangled, that movie is stinkin' cute.

My little boat bunny!!

Belle fell asleep in Papa's arms while we were out on the boat.

She was exhausted, the sun and wind will just take it out of you.

Sunday after Church we went to the Round Rock Express game. That was a lot of fun (even though it was 1000 degrees outside) Belle loves sports and will watch any game (daddy loves that). We had great seats right behind the catcher, next to first base. Belle had her first baseball stadium hot dog and danced to all the music between innings. It was a great day.

Ignore my double, triple chin...sick!

I could of polished off 20 of these!! Delish and refreshing in this Texas heat!

Ok, I just love this picture. That prissy little face cracks me up.

She had something sticky on her hand. Ha!

Monday we had a late breakfast and my Dad had to head home. We met-up with Auntie Kim for lunch at El Arroyo and just relaxed the rest of the day at the lake. All in all this weekend was perfect and lovely and Belle had the time of her life. :)

Yes, Daddy shaved his head... Oh Summer allowances...haha! ;)

My FAVORITE picture of the entire weekend!!!

Daddy & Belle playing in the water...

Max & Ruby!

2011-05-26T11:52:00.000-07:00

LOOK what I just found out about...

OH yes, you can bet your little bunny tail that we will be there!!! Belle LOVES Max & Ruby ...Kyle despises them, ha = Fun for all!! I just think since she loved Elmo Live so much that this will be a BIG hit at our house!! She has already started talking about going to the "mac & rubby" party... this will be great family fun! You're jealous, aren't you? ...You are, I can tell. ;)

On my mind, heavy on my heart.

2011-05-26T10:26:00.000-07:00

I don't want to ruffle feathers or hurt feelings but, something has been weighing pretty heavy on my mind lately. If you don't care to hear I suggest you don't read further.

I used to LOVE Twitter, I was excited to join, make new friends and share parts of my day and my random crazy thoughts. Lately, I've noticed that it's become a way to judge people or make backhanded comments. I've been a victim of it and have friends who share the same opinion. When did Twitter become a clique? Why are some girls "popular" and others made to feel less important. As a mother (and most of the people I chat with are) I feel like we HAVE to be supportive of each other. We are strong together and weak when we tear each other down. Being a Mom is the toughest job I've ever had, and it's also been the most judged I've ever felt. I don't want to hear rudeness or snide remarks when I log on to chat with friends I want to make jokes, get ideas, and share pictures and stories about my family. Why do people think it's okay to say mean things about someone or leave an unkind remark on someones blog? I really can't understand it ... and now that I'm raising a daughter I have no time or patience for it. I want her to learn how to treat people kindly and to be considerate of other's feelings. We are not all the same nor do we share the same opinion on a lot of things. But, we can still be respectful, understanding and supportive.

"Words are powerful. Take them seriously." ~ Matthew 12:37

I'll get down off my soapbox now... I just had to say it. It was bugging me to no end...hopefully now I'll feel better. Ha! :)

Happy Thursday from Debbie Downer. xo

Fancy Pants

2011-05-25T08:58:00.000-07:00

Daydreaming about an outdoor dinner party, comfort food & a fancy pants dress ... Happy Summer Y'all! Hope you have great Memorial Day weekend plans... we will be at the lake soaking up the sun. And heck, maybe I can throw a BBQ together that looks nothing like what you see below...ha... xo

Daddy & Belle Date Night

2011-05-20T07:53:00.000-07:00

This past Wednesday Chick Fil A hosted a Father-Daughter date night. Really is there anything sweeter than that? I remember when I was in elementary school and they did the "father-daughter dance" I thought I was so special getting dressed up and going out to dinner and dancing just me and my Dad. Little memories like that are the one's that stay with me year after year. When we saw this event advertised we knew Kyle and Belle HAD TO GO!! ...You RSVP'd online, and then when they arrived they were greeted with a violin player, table cloths, vases full of roses on each table, the CFA cow dressed in a tuxedo & top hat, the CFA staff acted as waiters and waitresses taking every ones order at their table, and the food was even served on plates!!!! I mean how special and fun for these babies and daddies! Last but not least they ended the meal with brownie cake and LIMO rides for all the couples! Do you die of cuteness...??? When I saw the pictures I almost cried!!

Ordering at the table with a MENU...so cute!

Belle watching the violin player

Clapping for him too...

My two angels

if this picture doesn't capture the essence of my child...

I don't know what does! HA!

Playing in the playscape

Belle's favorite, CHOCOLATE!!

Yum!

CFA, you really hit it out of the park with this event. Time and time again I am so incredibly impressed with their level of customer service and level of integrity. Such a wonderful company!!

My heart explodes... xoxo

Those Days

2011-05-19T09:23:00.000-07:00

There are days when I feel sorry for myself, when I forget He has a great plan for me, when I play the "not fair game", When I think seriously, what else could go wrong?... then I remember I am blessed by His unconditional love and everyday I am blessed to share my life with an amazing family. Good, bad & ugly they are always on my side and in my corner. I live in beautiful Austin, Texas (a huge change from this time last year) & my sweet baby girl is healthy, growing & brilliant. Really when you sit down and look at what you have, how can I question the past or the future? For God has given us just this perfect moment, right now.

THIS GIRL ... Loves it ... Wants it

2011-05-18T17:51:00.000-07:00

Lately celebrities have been BRINGING it!! I have been outfit inspired & want to share...

Ellen Pompeo & Kourtney Kardashian are both rocking the off white blazer and

flare light wash jeans, & I'm a big fan ...I am, I am.

Okay, I may have NO WHERE to wear this fab sequin bustier and high-waisted linen pants ensemble, BUT my friends I still covet it.

OH, Olivia Palermo ...Can I PLEASE just live in your closet?! She is always flawless.

EVERY SINGLE time I see her she looks like she just stepped out of a magazine.

Minus the men's tie, I feel like this is a great "date-night" outfit.

I have a really cute pair of camo skinny's ...pairing them with a sneaker, like a converse would be totally adorable & sporty...Thanks Olivia P, you are a TOP fashionista!

Mama needs a sparkly fringe skirt... who says you can't be fancy @ HEB?

Hook'em...enough said.

Really wishing I looked this good in a pair of shorts...and

I NEED that Missoni cardigan, STAT!

Sarah Michelle Gellar ... gimme your gypsy pants!! I want some of these.

Loving the over sized clutch and cute floral dresses. Sophia Bush looks so summery & fun!

Hubs and I have a wedding in Dallas in August ...I do believe that a dress similar to Carrie Underwoods' would be AMAZING!! Beaded and short sleeves, hello perfect for TX Summer wedding.

Hope this sasses up your Wednesday! :)

the mcquire family

PUSH!!!

30 weeks

will you be mine? ...

Happy Valentines Day

*Father - Daughter Dance* 2012

Baby Belle (who is nearly 3 YEARS OLD!!!!!)

Pregnancy Update

Christmas 2011

Happy New Year - 2012!!!

CHAOS

Pink, Tutu's, Sparkles and Such...

The Liebster Blog Award

Sweet Home Decor...

Topsy Turvy

MOVING on up...

Meeting Santa Claus

McQuire Thanksgiving 2011

Happy Thanksgiving

HAPPY ANNIVERSARY

Big Favor

We be ballin'

Daddy's Happy Birthday & a Mommy-Campbell Date

Christmas is COMING!!!

Updates & October Recap!

Pics at the Park

Baby Update

SURPRISE for Daddy

Thank you & Twitter ...

Hiking Meets MY Prima Ballerina

Baby, Baby, Baby...#2!!!!

First Day of Pre-School

Tubbin'

Never cease to sing HIS praise!

My Little Hamburger Helper

Cold Front

Weekend Away & Beaded Bracelets

Simply Summer

Best Friends are the BEST (especially when you're a hot mess)

This & That

Gone Fishin'

Sunday Funday

Dress me up & Take me out

What a mess...I hate stress~

Grandpa & His Girls

Pinnable Me: I need a Pintervention!

Horseshoe Bay

Summertime!

All you need is LOVE.

4th of July 2011

Pinnable Me

Father's Day!

iPhone Update ...

Zilker by way of Sonic ...

Double Date

Memorial Day Weekend- 2011

Max & Ruby!

On my mind, heavy on my heart.

Fancy Pants

Daddy & Belle Date Night

Those Days

THIS GIRL ... Loves it ... Wants it

Father - Daughter Dance 2012