A New Year, A New Decade, A New Life

I love that the idea of the New Year brings with it feelings of a 'new life.' Now-you can be the person you've always wanted to be-do all the things you've wanted to do.... I'm not regretful at all; I just want to be better. I suppose we're all striving for that, and really, we shouldn't ever stop!

I'm so thrilled to have the opportunity to have had this photo session. We got up and around EARLY (well for Chris anyways ;) and I'm delighted at the outcome. I've always wanted to have maternity photos done, but I didn't want any solos. This 1st one, of Chris and I, is my favorite. He's usually so stressed out from my natzi-picture-taking stance that he's physiccally unable to take a good photo! Well-I took a different approcah this time-and it worked! This photo captures the intimacy of our pregnancy perfectly.

The kids had solo pictures done, but because I often do those myself, we didn't purchase any. I was already spending quite a bit of money, so we ultimately decided to get some of the 'rarer' ones! Mind you-I have been saving personally for this photo session-as a memory preservor, it's a great way to splurge!!

These 2 of Aubrey and Hollan are a perfect reflection of their personalities.

This was the only decent one of the 3 of them!

This is the family photo we chose for our package deal. Again, it's reflective of who we are. It's not perfect, with staged smiles, sitting down, etc.-and I think that's why I love it! I didn't even realize Aubrey was posing-but that's Aubs.

The kids have LOVED having their hands all over my belly-talking and rubbing and kissing their baby brother!

Another great family photo, even if it will need to be re-done within the month! lol

One of the first few we took. I posted the best first ;)

It has been a struggle the past few weeks, but I felt amazing today-and I thank the Lord for that! Only one more day til the kids go back to school, and less than a month now until our new little boy will enter the world! WOW! 2010 is beginning fast. My biggest resolution (or goal) is to be more optomistic. I feel that doing this will better enhance ALL areas of my life. Here's to the best year yet! ~B.

My Favorite Picture

It makes me smile just to think of it! Chris and I were sitting on the sofa when our then 3 year-old came down the stairs after bedtime-like this! Undies on backwards, tatos everywhere and his fireman hat with toothbrushes suctioned to it! OMG! We were ineffective as parents, because after we quit laughing-we took pictures! What can you do?! After we'd finally settled down and returned him to bed my husband looked over at me and said, "I didn't see that coming!" Oh-Hollan, they say each of our kids get funnier and funnier-so this last one should be a riot, right?! I am so grateful for the joy my sweet children bring to my life. We were happy previously, but adding these children in brought us happiness neither of us could have imagined!

Struggling

With the flare-up of my fibromalgia and the pain of this tumor, PLUS the back pain, etc. I have found myself in quite the predicament. I do not like to complain, however I find myself doing so frequently, becuase it is all my mind encompasses. I have tried traditional forms of help, such as heat, ice, and topical muscle creams with no relief. I have also tried contemporary forms of help such as massage, acupuncture and oriental medicine, again with no relief. I am avoiding my pain medication because if I take it, the baby will be required to remain in the NICU for up to 2 weeks following delivery to be withdrawn. I can't stand the thought of that, yet I can't stand the pain either. It interferres with everyday activity and I am an angry, irritable person laying around crying and writhing. If you are reading this, please send some extra prayers this way for me and my family. Thanks, Brynn

MEXICO

This 1st one is my favorite of all of those taken.


This swimsuit shows just how pregnant I am!

Even on a cloudy day the ocean was BEAUTIFUL!

We were able to take our picture with the Mexican dancers after their show!

It was a stunning vacation. We had a private pool, unlimited drinks and 5 star restaurant food. The opportunity was amazing and I'm thankful to have had the expeience-and a stamp on my passport!

We've Returned-and I'm grateful!

Chris and I JUST returned from a luxury vacation on the Mexican Riveria at the Secret SilverSands Resort in Cancun! It was a whirlwind and we were treated like royalty there. As amazing as it was to be served NAB Pina Coladas on the beach, I was grateful to land safely back on US soil and return to see my children! Our reality is amazing as well and I find myself feeling more thankful. I'm trying to adapt an 'attitude of gratitude' as we have so very many blessings. I wasn't physically feeling well today, so we skipped church, but I am still humbled by the inspiring friends and church family we've found at Destiny Center. Our pastor is amazing, the kids have 2 special grandmas, and we have many who care and think about us. My new friend and customer Charlene had placed a CTMH order I delivered, and it was nice to chat with her for awhile and feel I have something to offer her and her business!

Oh-and an update on the craft show from my previous post.... I sold a few hand-made things and even better, found a few people who would like to learn as well. The best part?! The director of the Rio Rancho Parks and Recreation Dept. stopped by my booth and asked if I would teach for them!! I finished class descriptions for 4 classes to be offered in the upcoming Spring catalog, where I will be able to extend services and the papercrafting community with thousands of local people! I'm even offering 2 special classes for children and seniors! YAY!

I'll try to get into Abq. tomorrow and work on my photos to share. I'm caught up on e-mails, but haven't begun christmas cards yet. I have another ultrasound on Tuesday morning-10 more weeks til our new baby boy will be here! WOW!

I hope you are well and finding yourself in the Christmas spirit. Remember to stop and be grateful today. ~With blessing, B.

What to do?!

I have a craft show this weekend, my first. I should be in my studio creating and preparing but...I just don't feel like it! Any suggestions at to what gets YOU up and motivated, inspired and ready to work?! I could easily blame it on the pregnancy-I have not felt well today and I'm more and more prgnant-but the fact is that I'm fully capable, just lacking determination and perserverance. Ughh...

STAMPING DEAL!

For the month of November, Close To My Heart is hosting STAMPAGANZA! This means that when you purchase ANY 2 stamp sets of your choice, you can choose a 3rd for FREE! YAY! Those delicious little envelopes fit perfectly into stockings-so prepare for Christmas now! E-mail me at brynnthornburgh@gmail.com and I'll get you taken care of. I'd LOVE the opportunity to share this passion and great deal on the BEST acrylic stamps there are! I will likely even throw in a gift with purchase to my loyal blogger friends! I look forward to hearing from you!