a blog by britt...

Summertime...

2011-06-26T12:12:00.000-07:00

Isn't this what it's all about?

Luca, Alex and I have been great...busy but great. We just got back from a summer vaca visiting Alex's parents, aka Grandma and Grandpa Franken=) We had such a great time in Texas...those pictures are coming soon. Now time to relax, catch up on pictures, work on building my business and of course have a lot of fun this summer with our little man!

2011-05-04T08:20:00.000-07:00

Catching up...

2011-04-26T11:55:00.000-07:00

I've been trying very hard to keep my head above water recently. I finally found the time to edit and post some pictures of Luca...these are from 2mos ago! He was 13mo in the shots, but I figured I post them anyway. He's all over the place now...in and out, up and down, round and round. Using a lot of sign language, so much it surprises me sometimes...surprises me how much they are really able to communicate if we give them the tools. He's here slapping on my leg as I type this, with a cereal box in hand signing the word for "more". As long as I sit here, he'll keep going to the cupboard and bringing me boxes of food one after another, signing "more" until I get off the darn computer and go play with him. So that's what I'm going to do...put all the food back in the cupboard and take my little man to the park...maybe take a few photos too, who knows...

2011-03-28T21:33:00.000-07:00

Just an average day at the Grandparents house! We tried to enjoy the first really warm day in a looonnngggg time. Good thing we did because it is now cold again...almost snowing cold!

Weather aside, life is good. Luca is walking...no wait, I take that back...Luca is RUNNING... getting into everything, keeping us on our toes, and everyday I fall more and more in love. Even the one day a week I take him to Mrs. Mary's for the day I miss him...even when a small part of me looks forward to that day because I can work on my photography business and run quick errands without strapping a 30 pounder to my hip...I miss him:)

Today I feel like Betty-homemaker...Salmon and sauteed squash and zucchini, made from scratch beer cheese bread and my famous (only to my Alex) chocolate chip cookies (from scratch too!). I impress myself sometimes! Now that I'm writing this it sounds better than it was I think=) Come to think of it...I'm hungry...

And speaking of Betty-homemaker, I'll be attending my first sewing class this April...very exciting! After the class I plan on making Luca the most adorable pants, maybe some drapes (after living in our house for 3yrs), some pillow cases, and anything else my heart desires. I sure hope this 2.5hr class prepares me for all my heart desires!

Enough talk, more pictures! Here you go: 10 cents a ride...

And then grandpa got out the tracker and boy did Luca enjoy that! He's all boy, that's all I have to say!

My birthday and Courts visit...

2011-03-11T16:37:00.000-08:00

The best birthday surprise ever is to get home from a long day and find your best friend standing in the doorway! What an amazing weekend! Nothing beats that! Thanks for making the trip Court, can't wait to come surprise you=) And I'm going to have to sneak in a thank you to my amazing husband who got me such a cool bday gift...my new skiis...which make me miss Mammoth that much more=) Thanks! I love you guys!

2011-02-17T17:52:00.000-08:00

Just before the new year Alex, Luca and I finally took our first trip to the world famous Indianapolis Children's Museum. Luca had a blast and despite the crowd we had a really fun time. We ended up buying a membership and I have been back once with just Luca...much less crowded and more relaxing. Our personal favorite was the merry-go-round and of course the Playscape. I can't wait to go back soon! I heard that there is going to be a big improvement to the Playscape in the future, so we're looking forward to that... On a different note, it was challenging to take good photos considering the indoor light...but anyway, you get the idea...=)

2011-02-13T11:26:00.000-08:00

We are having such a great weekend here! Courtney surprised me with a visit for my birthday weekend...Alex surprised me with a new pair of amazing Vokyl Kenja Skiis and the whole setup and now the sun is shining in Indiana! What a great weekend!

Our little man is tearing the house up these days, almost walking...it takes a lot of muscle strength to carry around 30lbs! He's gettin' there though, soon enough and on his own time=)

Here is a slide show with some pics from Luca's 1st bday party. We had the BFF's over of course...Scarlett, Gavin and Wyatt!

From the last month...

2011-01-19T21:50:00.000-08:00

I can't believe my little boy is almost a year old! It's been a wonderful year, with lots of great memories made. Now we're gearing up to head out west to Vegas and then on to good ole' Mammoth! Alex and I can't wait to hit the powder. Luca will be in daycare at the mountain...I was told he was too young for ski school...next year maybe=) (although I did see a few youtube videos of 1yr old's snowboarding, no kidding.) I'm not going to lie, the thought has crossed my mind=) He's not walking yet though...makes it a little hard...

11 months old...my Luca

2011-01-10T20:23:00.000-08:00

I can't believe my big boy is almost a year old! He's is pointing and really picking up on the communication. I think he'll be walking soon too, but we'll see. I'm in no hurry! He's definitely more work now than every before, but more fun too. We've been busy going to library babies, the Children's Museum, La Leche League and visiting Grandma and Grandpa (although we miss Grandpa and Grandpa Franken, we were spoiled with them being here for the holidays!).

I'm proud that we're almost at a year and he is still breastfed...there is no end in sight either, which is fine for me because I like the bonding and the endless additional benefits that come with breastfeeding. Food is still complimentary for the most part, but let me tell you, this boy is starting to really enjoy eating! And besides a fleeting nap, Luca's meal times are about the only down time I get so no complaints on my end either. Overall...life is good=)

Here are some shots from month 11...more to come soon.

Just us girls...and Luca

2010-12-03T21:32:00.000-08:00

It was a wonderful weekend in Wilmington....too short but very fun. It was a while ago, and surprisingly I'm just getting to the photos now! Thanks girls! It was great to see you all and the babies, and Luca said he thoroughly enjoyed being the only man in the group...

Congrats on your new home Gee!!!

I know, there are a lot of pictures here, I couldn't choose which to post...and this isn't even all of them!

Tired babies from the beach!!!

It's 2am...

2010-11-29T23:18:00.000-08:00

It's 2am and no, I'm not with Luca...I'm up because this is about the only time that I can actually get work done around here! Having a 10mo old is a job in and of itself! I'm loving every moment of it though. Luca's been sick lately, and I hate that he hasn't been feeling well. It breaks my heart every time he coughs...I don't what to know what I'll do someday when life throws it's real challenges at him...I'll be a mess that's for sure=)

Last week our little man started pulling up on things...he gets pretty excited about it, then a little fearful of how, exactly, he's going to get himself out of that situation...he got that from me...the worry...and on a little more disturbing note (and hopefully in the morning I'll find this a little more funny than I do now...) I had to fish out a dead, dried up fly out of Luca's mouth this evening. Nothing like the good ole' finger swipe to reveal wings and half a carcas...Makes my skin crawl...anyway...

Here's a few pictures from the last month! I can't believe he's 10mos old!!!!

Turkey Run and real men...

2010-10-27T20:45:00.000-07:00

Real men hike in Moby wraps! Turkey Run was so pretty in mid October. Alex, Luca and I and the siblings had a wonderful hike and then well deserved pizza later for dinner. Here are some of our shots from the afternoon...

Seattle and beyond...the pictures

2010-10-26T20:19:00.000-07:00

Finally I've had the chance to get all of our Seattle/Whistler pictures on the computer! We had such a fun time on our vacation. Luca did great as our little travel companion, and I think he really enjoyed the hikes. He just loves the wind in his face...he smiles so big, with his chin up and eyes closed, enjoying the breeze through his hair. I know this much...he's going to love snowboarding someday=) Both Alex and I are wishing we could go back to Whistler in the winter to tear up the slopes=) What a great mountain and town...

Luca's Room...

2010-10-11T15:02:00.000-07:00

Ok, maybe he never sleeps here, but we do play here! I've had a few requests for pictures of my little man's nursery so here they are! I feel that it's still a work in progress...need to paint a few designs for the remaining wall but I like it none-the-less...

fyi~photography not the greatest...pictures taken with iphone=)

A mirror that I had in college...just like it, nothing fancy..

Some old pictures of Alex as a newborn (front) and my mom and I (back).

One of my favorites...Luca's antique dresser, which was mine when I was his age, my dads when he was that age and my great Aunts when she was raising her kids! The baby outfits on display were Alex's dads when we was a babe!

A little collage board...kind of scattered right now, I need to organize it better. Some old pictures of my mom and I, my grandma and I, Alex's mom wearing him just like I wear Luca (love that one), Luca's sonogram, his announcement, a pola of Alex, the Franken fam, picture of Alex when he was a toddler, and our family portrait that needs to be framed...

Blood, sweat and tears went into these book shelves, then I hired a seamstress to finish them and we hung them...I get these ideas in my head and sometimes they're great and other times...well, we'll see how long these last!

An antique wicker chair that's been in my family for four generations (I had new covers made=)

My rocking horse when I was a kid...

Changing table with my cloth diaper storage beneath...(by the way, cloth diapering is one of the best decisions I've ever made...next to marrying Alex, having a baby, and breastfeeding of course...=)

And a happy baby!

Blue eyed boy...

2010-10-08T21:13:00.000-07:00

my boy...

2010-09-29T18:40:00.000-07:00

just makes my heart smile....=)

On playing and teething the natural way...

2010-09-28T16:08:00.000-07:00

I'm so sick of plastic baby toys, plastic teethers, plastic this, plastic that. Sometimes it seems our world is nothing but plastic! I'm done with plastic...who knows what kind of chemicals they use to make it, paint it, seal it coat it, what-have-you...I'm going back to basics here people. I'm all about natural toys that invoke the imagination. My new found appreciation for natural toys was inspired by the Waldorf concept, which I'm really getting into. I would love for Luca to go to a Waldorf school, but of course Indiana doesn't have any...California has, not only many private schools, but an array of PUBLIC charter schools that teach with a Waldorf concept...and we don't even have a private Waldorf school here in Indiana, even if I could pay $10,000 a year...Oh well, I can learn about the concept myself and try to apply a few of the basic principals at home...So, in the Waldorf tradition, here are some of the toys that are on my most wanted list for my little Luca bear...
One of the best sites for Waldorf toys is this store! Bella Luna Toys

In addition to Bella Luna, there are some great toys on Etsy too!

These blocks are great! From LittleSaplingToys

Stackable rainbow, from Imagination Kids and believe it or not, this company is based out of the Indianapolis area!

Play Clay, which is safe and so fun! From MamaK's....

A simple little sail boat to enjoy in the tub, in a pool, or if you're like me as a kid, in the gutter after a hard rain=) From Willowbaus....

Just because I'm a big fan of babywearing=) From Woodmouse...

Waldorf Doll from Bella Luna, The idea here is that the doll has no expression in order to let the child's imagination flourish! The doll is who the child wants it to be...I love that.

And last but certainly not least...

The cutest toy of all! I love this one...for obvious reasons...Luca will have this someday=) From LittleSaplingToys on ETSY...

Thoughts on coming full circle...

2010-09-26T14:31:00.000-07:00

I have never appreciated my mom more than I do now...well, of course both my parents...Dad included, but there is just something about that motherly bond that you get the moment your child comes into the world...it's a true, you've come full circle moment...I finally felt some of the emotions that my mother must have been feeling all these years...and I get it now. I truly believe that you can never fully appreciate the love of your mother without having a child of your own. Maybe it's the unconditional love, maybe its the hopes and the dreams that you have for your child, maybe it's protection, the worry and maybe it's all of the above. I think having Luca has made me love my mother even more than before...if that's possible ...The bond between mother and baby is so strong and such an amazing thing. I enjoy every minute of it...the nursing, the crying, the laughing, the cuddling...I'm so grateful not only to be a mother, but to have a wonderful mother and finally, appreciate every once of her!

Day at the park...

2010-09-24T12:24:00.000-07:00

Butler University has such amazing gardens. We had fun taking a few pictures back in August...and there are some of me! Alex is getting good with the camera so I can acutally have a few shots with my family too!

I'm just now catching up with all the photos I take. Luca turned 8mos yesterday! And guess what? I have more pictures from yesterday's little shoot at the art museum. Those will be coming soon. Blogging from the hospital yet again today, but glad to say that my mom is finally looking better. She'll be home sooner than later=)

Happy Fall!

Family Wedding in August...

2010-09-18T17:53:00.000-07:00

Katie and Matt were married in August in Omaha and we had a really good time visiting with friends and family. Luca finally got an opportunity to meet his Great Grandma and Grandpa Core! I just LOVE that he has three Great Grandparents! Hopefully it won't be long until we can all spend more time with the whole family again.

Long time no talk...and Alex's birthday...

2010-09-18T16:46:00.000-07:00

Hello,
I'm back...after a long few weeks...blogging from the hospital today, thank god they have wifi or else I would be going crazy! My mom's doing better, but still going to be here, in the hospital a while.

I've been working on the photo backlog since Luca and I have all this extra time keeping Mom company. Here are some photos from Alex's birthday in August. Kelli, Lyle, Bridgette, Justin and Amy came to celebrate on Saturday, and of course Luca's bff's Gavin and Wyatt were there in tow. We hungout, rain and all...it was a good time. Thanks guys, for coming to celebrate with us! And Kate and Zach, thanks for stopping by on Sunday! Why didn't I get my camera out on Sunday?

days of summer...

2010-08-13T17:45:00.000-07:00

Again, here little Luca is at the park. We've been having fun while Alex plays some soccer. I love our new swing and the blanket. They're handmade in El Salvador and a friend of mine who lives there half the time brings an array of items back to the U.S. to sell! If anyone is interested in buying anything from baby outfits (boys and girls), blankets, swings, hair accessories, really awesome handbags and totes, scarfs and much more, this is Kelsey's facebook: Kelsey's page

She has sales from time to time around the area and is going to be putting together a website soon (I think).

Ok, I'm going to go now, little man is screeching in my ear...think he's hungry!

6 months of fun...

2010-08-02T19:02:00.000-07:00

Just hanging out at the park and playing some soccer, hammin' in up for the camera!

Solid Foods in the future...

2010-07-27T10:53:00.000-07:00

Luca is 6 months old now and lately he's been pretty interested in the food on our plates! It was my goal to get him to 6 months on exclusively breastmilk and we're here! Part of me doesn't want to start solids because feeding is so convenient right now. It's always there and ready! Plus I don't want him to nurse any less than what he is now...but never-the-less, he will still be nursing...for a while or as long as he's interested. Even though I love nursing, I do look forward to feeding him=)

I've been reading this great book that Mom Franken got me called "Feeding Baby Green" and it's great! Feeding Baby Green

Turns out, Guava is a power food, and one that I never really get my hands on here in Indiana-until now On one of my many jogs up to the neighborhood Whole Foods I got to talking with the produce guy...he ordered me just a few guava's and the rest is history. We have Guava for Luca until he goes to college. I'm also going to be making some other delicious meals for baby from the recipes in the book! Thanks Ellen!

So i think in the next month or so my little man will be introduced to a array of healthy foods. They say that by age 1, the child should have been introduced to as many tastes as possible...we'll see how many fruits, veggies, and whole grains I can get my hands on=) Below are some pics of Luca's first taste of banana! (he's not eating regularly yet, but maybe by 7 months)...

from June...

2010-07-21T15:43:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures from Fathers day weekend when the Lee-Kingsley clan came to visit. We had a great time...at the pool, and the wine fest, eating fathers day cake and cooking at home...I'm still dreaming about that delicious meal babe! Thanks for introducing me to Swiss chard! Hopefully it won't be long until we see you all again! And we've already starting saving for Brazil 2014!

Luca's birth story...

2010-07-16T20:15:00.000-07:00

I'm so so glad that Alex and I had Rachelle, our doula, with us during pregnancy and labor/delivery! Her help and guidance was SO valuable, words cannot describe (that's a whole other post). She doesn't say it below but SHE was the reason that I was able to get out of bed and deal with the contractions and progress labor. She got me in the shower, in the tub, and was such a great support. I think Alex was just as happy to have her because I think he was in shock most of the day. Shock that I was in so much pain, shock that we were going to have a baby, etc. And apparently I was in shock all day too because the birth story that I wrote skips half of what Rachelle recorded! I also exaggerated the length of labor just a little maybe=) I remember it being more like 5 hours when it looks like I was only having contractions (without the epidural) for about 3hrs! Wow! But you know, I would do it all over in a heartbeat. I have no regrets, just a few things that I would watch out for next time. I hope that I will be more aware next time...when you're in labor, you feel like the world is spinning around you and you have no idea what is going on. I was so focused on myself and being in the moment that I truly didn't remember half of what REALLY went on! I'm so glad for all that Rachelle has done for us and it's just like icing on the cake that she was able to write us such a great birth story for Luca. I've had the story for a while but chose to wait to read it until now. What a nice surprise! Thanks Rachelle!

Birth Story of Luca Franken:

I had the immense privilege of assisting Brittany and Alex throughout their entire pregnancy and attending them during their labor and birth of their baby. We talked a lot about the natural labor process and going past the due date, and Brittany not wanting to be induced. All of those ideas changed however, when at 35 weeks Brittany had a complication of pregnancy. She was diagnosed with Cholestasis, and had to make the choice of whether to continue with the pregnancy or be induced for the baby’s safety. After many blood tests and NSTs and biophysical profiles, weighing the benefits and risks, and many nights of worry, Brittany and Alex decided to go ahead with an induction on January 23^rd. Britt was already dilated one centimeter which worked in her favor of the induction being successful.

I joined them at the hospital the night before just to check up on them- made sure they had all their questions answered, made sure they were emotionally ready for their birth journey the next day. I left and awaited their phone call for when to join them again. When at 8am I discovered I still hadn’t received a call, I talked to Brittany and she said that Dr. Soper hadn’t arrived yet, but that they were going to start pitocin at 9am. She also reported that she had hyperstimulated through the night and was given terbutiline to relax her uterus. When I arrived just after 9am, Dr. Soper had already been in and checked her. Brittany was 2cm and Dr. Soper broke her water without much conversation regarding it. When I entered the room, I could tell Brittany was already having contractions that were getting hard to work through. Alex arrived shortly after I did, returning from walking the dogs that morning.

After being in bed trying to cope with the contractions so they could get a good tracing on the baby and contraction pattern, Brittany decided to get up and try the shower for more relief. While she was in the shower, I ran the tub so that she would have it filled for her when the shower wasn’t working for her as well. Brittany was working really hard through her contractions, and they were right on top of each other – no breaks in between. The tub helped bring her to a more relaxed state, and she was coping as well as she could. Labor was hard work on pitocin. And even harder was the fact that she didn’t have a restful night, so she was tired too. She was shaking and showing signs of being further into labor, and was starting to consider an epidural. I suggested that she get out and get checked before she made any decisions so that she and Alex would have the best information available before making a choice. It took a long time to get from tub to bed- every time she would start to walk, another contraction would come.

When she finally was able to get to the bed to be checked at 11:45, the nurse (Anne-Mette) said that she was 4-5cm, 80% effaced, and the baby was at a 0 station. That was amazing work that Brittany did, and was a great predictor of a vaginal birth. The baby had come down really low, and at this point an epidural would probably not slow down her labor. The epidural was placed at 12pm and Brittany was able to finally relax. Dr. Soper inserted the pressure catheter to better gauge the contraction pattern she was having so they would know whether to up the pitocin or not. Brittany’s blood pressure got very low from the epidural, and the baby’s heart rate dropped in response. The anesthesiologist came in to give her something to bring her blood pressure and baby’s heart rate up. Brittany felt like her heart was beating hard, from the medication. But it worked, and her blood pressure went up and so did the baby’s heart rate.

At 2:30, Brittany was having some pressure so she was checked and her cervix was found to be at 8cm and the baby had come down to a +1 position. Great progress! More pressure continued, and she was checked again at 3:20 and she just had a “lip” left. Ten minutes later the lip resolved (she was fully dilated) and Brittany started pushing. She got the hang of pushing right off the bat and worked really hard at it. Just under an hour later, at 4:27, a little baby entered the world and they could finally see for themselves that they had a boy! He was 6lbs10oz and Brittany had no tearing. It was an awesome moment to see Brittany and Alex’s faces when they looked at their son for the first time.

Congratulations Brittany and Alex on your amazing journey to your firstborn. May you be blessed with many more!

Much love to all three of you!

Rachelle, your doula

having a 6 month old...

2010-07-15T16:42:00.000-07:00

First of all, I can't believe Luca is almost 6 months! I know I get sick of people talking about how fast time goes, but in the end, it's true.

This month has been great. We have seen family and friends and have enjoyed some vacation time at the lake and of course, the world cup. I've been reading some, and I really enjoyed "Operating Instructions" by Anne Lamott. She writes about her life during her son's first year and it is laugh out loud funny. Not to mention that there are so many things that I can relate to...I loved it. Luca and I read while relaxing in the hammock at the lake. Anne seems to have had a lot more to deal with in her first year of raising her son (and somehow that makes me feel good about myself), but then I look at Luca and realize that, yes, maybe he doesn't cry much, maybe he sleeps for 10hrs straight but no matter what...everyone has their own battles. We all have our worries and little issues...my whole thing this week is Luca and rolling over...see, he's not doing that at all. Part of me says who cares, we shouldn't compare him to other babies (ave age for rolling over is 4 months) but then the other part of me thinks to myself..what if I'm doing something wrong. Am I giving him enough tummy time? Is he really behind in the whole scheme of things? I think he's going to go straight to walking...that sounds good, but then again, I've heard that's BAD too! They miss crucial developmental milestones that could apparently scar him for life! Don't ask me...this is all trial and error I guess=)

Franken Men Photo Shoot

2010-07-15T16:16:00.000-07:00

Grandpa, uncle Paul and Dad Franken were in town this weekend and we were able to get all the Franken men in the camera frame. There are four generations of Frederick Frankens! Our Luca Frederick being the newest edition. We also enjoyed watching the world cup and I think Luca especially liked all the attention...I love these pictures!

So excited! Vote for me please!

2010-07-05T20:24:00.001-07:00

I am so excited to be one of three finalists with a chance to win a mentoring session with a great photographer! Her name is Jessica Feely and I would be so honored if I were the one to have the opportunity to go visit her in Seattle!

I do have to say that even if I don't win, I'm totally honored to be one of the finalists, and that itself has been a great thing~so thank you! That said, I would still like to win if possible:) Below, I've attached the note I wrote (as my entry) on why I think I deserve this mentoring session. I want to win so bad!!! Please vote for me!
You can vote by going to the Maternal Lens Blog site on this page or here: http://thematernallens.blogspot.com/2010/07/3-finalists-announced-vote-now.html
Votes have to be made by July 9th midnight.

MY ENTRY to the Maternal Lens:
Name: Britt Franken
Email: Britt.Franken@gmail.com
Portfolio: www.brittfrankenphotoblog.blogspot.com
also here: http://www.flickr.com/people/brittfranken/

I've always been a lover of photography. Just recently I've become a mom and therefore have taken a huge leap of faith and resigned from my full-time job to follow my passions: my family and photography. Even though financially, I knew that switching careers would be difficult, with my husbands support, I'm going for it! I dream that one day I can help support my family through photography while remaining present and flexible for my family. At this point I have never had a paid photography job. I've taken pictures of many children and families while trying to put together a portfolio but ultimately have found it hard to jump into the business. I've been studying and practicing my photography in between pregnancy naps and diapers changes for over a year now and I finally feel ready to gather up my confidence and my camera and take this leap of faith.

The opportunity to spend this time with you as a mentor would be a dream. There are SO many questions I have from composition and posing to work flow and pricing. I've tried to contact other photographers both locally and out of state but not one has responded or taken any interest in mentoring. I truly believe that having a mentor is one of the best ways to improve and grow in any aspect of life. Hopefully one day I'll have the skills to "pay it forward". Please consider me for this opportunity, it would be a life changing experience for me! Thank you!

First Day of Summer...

2010-06-30T11:18:00.000-07:00

It was the first day of summer, and Luca and I were out for our usual run...in the middle of the day in the blazing Indiana heat no less. He really enjoys our runs, goes to sleep right away (what doesn't put him to sleep right away though?) and enjoys the breeze in the shade while I plug along in agony (well maybe not agony, but sometimes it feels like it)...I'm also starting a fun project for summer called "days of summer" where I will take one picture, of Luca or the Family, every day all summer long. It will eventually be a part of Luca's 1st year album. I'll post the pictures at the end of the summer!

In the meantime, I have made a promise to myself to keep this neglected blog updated. I have so many pictures to post right now I don't even know where to start...Next: the Lee-Kingsley visit and the community pool!

Texas in June...

2010-06-22T12:00:00.000-07:00

We had such a wonderful visit in Texas! Luca misses Grandpa and Grandma though! It was so relaxing just to sit by the pool and bake in the sun (really the shade for us and our pale skin)...Luca enjoyed the extra attention from the family and we were even lucky enough to score another evening with Mom and Dad Franken due to flight cancellations!

Thanks Ellen and Alan for hosting the entire family! We had a great time! See you soon...

Us is April...

2010-06-01T20:03:00.000-07:00

Just some pics of the fam...

2010-05-24T20:50:00.000-07:00

Luca was actually 3 1/2 months in these pictures...it's just taken me this long to post them...

Things are going great with the little man. He's 4 months now and smiling up a storm. Life is great.

I love my husband, he is a genius...

2010-05-22T17:09:00.000-07:00

afternoon in May

2010-05-20T10:29:00.000-07:00

We need new deck chairs...badly...One afternoon, one of the existing chairs that we were using ripped right through the butt...perfect...SO, I dusted off the good ole' Pelican Chair from my teenage years in Cali (I knew there was a good reason that we were hording that away!) Alex and I just wanted to sit and have a peaceful glass of wine, is that so much to ask these days? =)

After about 5 minutes of trying to figure out how to open up that damn thing I finally did, and a pile of pacific sand spewed out onto my toes...Thanks for the reminder...I miss the beach, so so much!

Our Duke...

2010-05-17T11:26:00.000-07:00

Makes me wonder why we even have pets when it's this hard to say goodbye...But I do know why...their personalities, loyalty and love are worth it... We love you and will miss you Geezer!

Family Portrait for our anniversary...

2010-05-05T10:48:00.000-07:00

Happy anniversary my love! I'm looking forward to many many more wonderful years!

I had our portrait done by the super talented Nan Lawson. She has a store on Etsy.com, it's here: http://www.etsy.com/shop/NanLawson

Early Spring...

2010-05-05T10:44:00.000-07:00

Saturday morning...

2010-05-02T21:01:00.001-07:00

A lazy Saturday with my fam...

Lazy shots from our anniversary..

2010-04-22T21:01:00.000-07:00

Don't even get me started on how fast this year has gone by...but wow, it's been quite a year=)

Love you Alex...

have to say it was an amazing meal, at the top of Indy...(and the first time we ever left the lil' man...thanks John and Jenn)

just slow down....

2010-04-02T13:14:00.000-07:00

Today was busy, but unexpectedly so. But then again, it seems that every day is busy in the same way. I wake up, don't really have a lot of things that I HAVE to do, but I have things that I want to get done. So I spend my morning getting Luca and I ready to get these things done, then we go out to do these things, get one done, Luca's hungry etc., I'm tired, it's getting late, dinner needs to be started...you get the point...and I haven't really marked anything off my to do list...basically these are my typical days...until yesterday.

On my way home from my parents house (again, running around all day) Luca was screaming in the back seat, starving and most likely marinating in a dirty diaper. I was still 20min from home. It was a beautiful day and we passed the Zionsville park on the way home. Kids playing everywhere...it just looked like fun. So, Luca and I decided to stop racing around. Stop racing home so I could feed him on the couch and change his diaper in the nursery. We turned around and did all those things at the park. He touched grass for the first time, and we lounged in the shade of the sun and just enjoyed the day. We enjoyed having NOTHING to do. And that's the truth..for the most part I have nothing to do, and I need to embrace that a little more often=)

p.s. the only thing that would have made this day better is if dad was with us!

I love his smile...

2010-03-30T20:36:00.000-07:00

We had so much fun on Saturday while taking Luca's pictures. He is getting so social and it just warms our heart when he smiles! This whole parent thing just keeps getting better and better. Alex is upstairs reading to him as I type...off to bed!

Luca's 9 week pictures!

2010-03-30T19:22:00.000-07:00

Here's Luca on his 9 week birthday! The other pictures are on my flickr page @ http://www.flickr.com/photos/28073898@N08/sets/72157623372319317/

Two pages of my work-in-progress...

2010-03-30T19:17:00.001-07:00

Luca looks like his dad...

2010-03-24T19:31:00.000-07:00

Everyone including me thinks that little L looks more like dad than mom...but lately I've been thinking that he is looking a little bit more like me...I found this old pic of myself when I was a little older than Luca, but you can still get the idea. Does anyone agree? =)

luca and alex

2010-03-23T15:18:00.001-07:00

luca and alex, originally uploaded by iamBritt.

He's 8 weeks, and he's got a proud papa...

Two months ago...

2010-03-21T13:06:00.000-07:00

A look back...

I can't believe that it's already been two months...time goes too fast.

6 weeks

2010-03-16T20:40:00.000-07:00

babywearing

2010-03-12T13:11:00.000-08:00

a good article i found...in the fashion section no less.

http://www.nytimes.com/2010/03/11/fashion/11BABY.html?ref=fashion

Head still above water...

2010-03-11T18:10:00.000-08:00

My head is not just above water, I'm treading water these days! I feel like I am really getting into a rhythm and it feels great. Don't get me wrong, I still have days that I barely get off the couch (and when I do it's to the nursery and back to the couch), brush my hair, or shower. I mean, I've watched more daytime TV, Jeopardy and Wheel of Fortune over the past 6 weeks than I have in my entire life- no lie! (I love Ellen DeGeneres!) But for the most part, I 'm getting stuff done. I'm cleaning here and there, and cooking good meals ("good" by my standards by the way) for my hubby, and most importantly, bonding with my new little man. All in all, we're doing great. Here are some pics of when Grandma and Grandpa Franken and auntie Court were in town. We miss them all so much! Come back!

a progression...

2010-02-23T15:38:00.000-08:00

When a guy gets hungry, he gets hungry...

...at first there are a few minor clues that say "feed me", but when mom just keeps taking pictures you got to be a little more obvious...

Step 1: start making motions toward mouth

Step 2: same thing, but getting a little pissed...

Step 3: If the mouth motions don't work, move on to entire face...(he's going to give me 3 more minutes...)

Step 4: If you're confused about where the milk goes, he'll show you!

Step 5: You asked for it, here is comes...

Step 6: You've left me no other options than to scream for it!

The last and final step: Completely famished....the pleading look

And we're happy again. Lucky for Luca (and my sanity) we rarely make it to step 2...

More Luca...

2010-02-16T19:54:00.001-08:00

Luca was so patient, putting up with Mom's picture taking and all...

Luca trying out his new crib while Mom and Dad finish his room!

Luca's first official bath...He wasn't too happy:(

Little man...

2010-02-15T20:58:00.000-08:00

Our little man is 3 and a half weeks old! More pictures to come soon!

Alex and Britt plus one...

2010-01-28T20:11:00.001-08:00

He's here! Luca is finally home and doing well. We have to go back to the hospital everyday for blood tests until the jaundice subsides but we are really enjoying the new addition to the family.

Luca was three weeks early because I developed a pregnancy related condition called Intrahepatic Cholestasis which effects the liver. Anyway, long story short, it's best for mother and baby if the baby is born a bit early...soooo...that's why Luca joined us a little earlier than normal.

I was induced on Friday night, and after suffering through the night with little or no sleep the doc finally broke my water in the morning. Just when I thought it couldn't get much worse...it did. Oh it definitely did. Basically, I thought I was going to die:) Well not really, but that's how I felt at the time. After begging for over an hour for an epidural, I finally hit 4cm and the doc was called in to stick the needle in my spine. All I have to say is that my friends were all right. It's so worth it to have an epidural, especially when you have pitocin. Now, part of me believes that people just tell me this to make me feel better, but in the end, I don't care...pitocin or no pitocin It was one of the best decisions that I've ever made:) In my opinion, I was able to enjoy the process to the fullest extent. I know some of my girls are smiling right now, remembering how adament I was about "natural childbirth"...I always said I was "keeping my option open" :)

Thank god Alex and my doula Rachelle were there to provide support. Alex was awesome, and everytime I looked at him I was reminded that this would all be worth it. And in the end it was, all worth it...we have our little Luca and we are in awe of him.

Luca Frederick~ Born 1.23.10, 4:30pm, 6lbs 10oz, 21 inches of wonder.

Our little blondie loves his dad...

Even though we're a bit tired, we're LOVING every moment of this!

Stay tuned...more posts to come~ promise

Last Weekend Snow

2010-01-16T08:31:00.000-08:00

My Holga

2010-01-09T13:36:00.000-08:00

The first few images from my Holga camera that my hubby got me!

Alex getting the bikes ready for our ride home from Patachou one summer morning...

Alex, Tom and Jenni gettin' their drink on before the Phish show in July...

Court and I enjoying some cold Indiana weather while walking the pups in mid December...

It's been a while...

2009-12-02T12:03:00.000-08:00

Today I'm working from home. It's a nice day to be doing this because it's cold and rainy and when the day's over, I will have new carpet in our home office and clean carpet everywhere else in the house. We are slowly getting ready for baby! Two and a half months left! I can't believe how time flies sometimes. We've been swamped though...so that's probably why.

Currently the home project underway is the office. Alex and I are trying to make our home office into kind of a man cave if you will. It's going to be darker (a break from the rest of the house which is all white) and a little more rustic. We may even add some taxidermy...imagine that! We're so excited about the office transformation. I'll post pictures when we're done, which should be next week if we can stay on schedule.

On a different note, I've been bad with the pregnancy photos...I haven't taken any. No belly shots and really no shots in general! (the one I posted is the last shot taken of me, which was about a month ago). Although I must say that I have been getting a little more inspired by my growing belly. Doc says I'm "measuring big" but most people wouldn't even know I'm preggo. I just look a little thick around the mid section if you know what I mean. I have had a total of two strangers make comments to me, and it was in the same day (must have been wearing something tight). I was excited about that...actually made me feel preggo and not just fat.

The baby had the hiccups the other night. At first, Alex and I just thought it was a strong heartbeat but when I did some research, I figured out that it was probably our baby with the hiccups! Just a fun fact. Anyway...I've been MIA on the blog posts and I know we have some special people in TX that like to stay updated on our lives! ...and I think my friends read my blog too, or I just like to think so...I'm going to try and post more often, especially as the pregnancy draws to a close over the next two and a half months...

Until then...

...last weekend....

2009-10-12T08:41:00.000-07:00

A great Sunday hiking at Eagle Creek...I love FALL.

and the planning continues...

2009-10-08T14:07:00.001-07:00

Alex and I have been hard at work this week. Literally, no couch time at all these days. Last weekend we bought a crib and changing table (good deal really)...it's the crib below, but our's isn't quite there yet...but will be soon enough!

First things first...I need to get the remaining things out of this bedroom and into an actual closet somewhere in our house. It sounds easier than it is, believe me, they're getting full. Never-the-less, I have still been searching for nursery inspiration wherever I can get it. I love the nursery below, of course designed by an Urban Outfitters guy or something like that. I saw the pic on one of the baby design blogs that I am currently obsessed with: http://www.ohdeedoh.com/ohdeedoh/home-tours

Last but not least, I think I want a bird mobile...we'll see what A has to say about all these ideas.

just a little reminder...

2009-09-30T11:32:00.000-07:00

Last week, for the first time in my life, I bit into my daily animal cracker and as half of it dropped and it dropped exactly half the distance it used to…it landed on my stomach. Yep, that’s right, on the shelf that I once called my waist. Everyone keeps saying that I am not “showing” much, but this was definitely reinforcement that, yes I am indeed getting plump. I just stood there (yes, I was standing too) and looked at the little crumb on my belly, Alex laughing in the background, telling myself: think positive, maybe in a few months the animal cracker will land on my chest! (hey, a girl can hope right?)

These days it seems all Alex and I talk about sometimes are BumGenius diapers and suitable cribs. We're not complaining, it's just funny how things change so quickly- in a good way. Now instead of jammin' on the guitar, Cakes will be perfecting his nursery rhymes. We've decided since neither of us should ever sing out load, the guitar would be the obvious go to for relaxing. I love that my husband plays the guitar!

On a last note, I've decided that I am going to make it a personal goal to workout (yoga, running, hiking, tennis etc.) every day of the second half of my pregnancy. I'm off to a good start, albeit only 7 days in, but still...Wish me luck. And hopefully I'll never have quite this big a shelf (unless there are twins in there, which I doubt!):

Holy Moly...and a few other fun facts about pregnancy

2009-09-17T14:03:00.000-07:00

It's week 18. Last night, I thought I might have skin cancer. Today, I asked one of the docs I work with what I should do. She laughed and said, "oh thats just the beginning"...

Apparently moles come with pregnancy. I guess I can just be thankful that it's not anything big or that it's not conveniently situated in the middle of my face or anything. It's on my jaw, so I can move forward and accept this I suppose, but please, please, no more! I'm holding my breath. Seriously.

Other than that, things are going, well...great. The baby is great (so far so good) and Alex is hanging in there too (although he may be up to his eyeballs with me asking for foot massages, but hey, I think I'm deserving...) We still don't know the gender, but we've been hearing that the baby (for which I like the nickname "Giggs", after one of alex's nicknames and a soccer player) may be taking on similar features to aunt Amy, and on the other hand, it may look a bit like uncle Zach as a baby. Who knows! Guess we'll just have to wait and find out!

All in a days time...

2009-09-16T20:08:00.000-07:00

Today was great (once we got home from work). The dogs were excited to get out of the house and I was excited to have some time with my camera. Alex was nice enough to handle the dogs while they played in the mud and tangled us up. And when we got home, pancakes hit the spot. Thank god it's already almost Thursday, I can't wait for the weekend.

Baby Names...amazing website...forget all the books...

2009-09-15T08:19:00.000-07:00

I had a great discovery today...

Right when I was getting so discouraged looking through baby name books, finally, I fall upon what I have been looking for over the past 4 months...a baby name finder that actually works! No more spending all your baby name searching time laughing at all the ridiculous options out there. You put in your favorite names, your inspiration, and go from there! Amazing. Thank you.

http://www.nymbler.com/

Pregnant Diary: Week 11

2009-07-28T11:52:00.000-07:00

I'm almost out of the first trimester! Time flies when you're having fun I suppose. The most exciting development this week was a trip to the doc...we got confirmation that indeed there is a human growing inside me- a heartbeat! It was exciting, but mostly just reassuring. I'm feeling better these days, although I never did have much to complain about in the first place. I suppose my next step will be the good ole' "before the bump" belly shots...just so I have a baseline I guess! I'm sure at some point I'll need to remember what I looked like before everything really sets in...

Until then- that's our update...

Third week of knowing...prego diary entry #3

2009-06-23T13:04:00.000-07:00

The pregnant diary week 6:

Last night I woke up in a sweat. Cramps originating in my uterus radiating down my legs had me in the fetal position for what seemed like all night. I then realized I had to pee… really, really bad. To my amazement, the middle of the night bathroom break was what the doctor ordered. Now I could go back to bed, sleep peacefully and not dream about being in labor. Mind you, this is only my 6th week of being prego, and I have to say that I was laying in bed awake for a good additional hour last night, worried that I had run too much in the heat the that day and all the what if’s you go through…my good friend told me today that I need to not think about all the what if’s…she told me to focus on the positive... on that bean inside me growing and getting bigger and healthier…I decided that she’s right, so that’s exactly what I am going to try to do.

Grow baby grow.

one sweet lunch...

2009-06-18T19:19:00.000-07:00

A couple of weeks ago I had a great lunch. It started at 11am and in my opinion, it the greatest summer lunch ever. I kinda like the Indiana Strawberry Fest! My mom did too, because she ate TWO!

One week of knowing...

2009-06-18T19:11:00.000-07:00

So, it's been one week exactly since Alex and I found out that we are expecting a little one in February 2010. I am writing this at the one week mark, but not posting until later...until all those close to us know our good news. And speaking of good news, it hasn't even sunk in yet...this whole..."you're pregnant" thing going on...nope, not at all...never-the-less, we're still thrilled with the idea. I notice that I'm suddenly running through possible names in my head, and trying to picture our lives in 9mos...and then I think, wait, don't get ahead of yourself here, we're not out of the woods at all, and don't get your hopes up! I am caught somewhere in between being totally excited, thinking positive to toning down my thoughts and trying to take it one day at a time because you never know what will happen tomorrow. Takin' it one day at a time. At least there is always Alex for some comic relief when you are deep in thought...apparently he's having some trouble right now with the preparation of garlic tofu pasta that he's cooking me for dinner...time to go assist!

Insert 6 week pregnancy photo here: DIDN'T TAKE ONE BECAUSE I LOOK NO DIFFERENT

New addition to the family...

2009-06-17T19:47:00.000-07:00

We finally found a bike for Alex! It's great...manly, yet sophisticated, just like my Cakes. We took a 14mi ride on Sunday, got caught in rain (basically hail) in our sundress and white t-shirt...Fun and liberating in some small way. I am still keeping my eye out for that perfect vintage, Euro-like bike to come into my life, but until then, I'm satisfied with my old rusty beach cruiser...even if we do live in Indiana.

The Meeting in the Mountains...

2009-06-12T13:01:00.000-07:00

Some Wedding Memories...

Like they all say, it was over in a flash...the whole thing...from the engagement to the honeymoon...almost an exact year...over in a flash...but in my memory for a lifetime.

Our engagement picture: of us, for us, by us...

Planning was fun, with so many ideas and inspirations in and out of our heads at any given moment...finally we chose the perfect place for US...Mammoth Lakes, CA...April 4th, 2009.

Our save the dates, road photo courtesy of a flickr member and that's us on the stamp!

From the invites to the thanks you's it was all planned around a simple, mountainous theme..."Mountains of Love" is what we called it...and LOVE was what that day was all about. Our best friends and family came from all over the U.S. to be with us, and we felt like the luckiest, most LOVED couple on the planet. We literally have the BEST people around us, both family and friends...a person can't ask for much more than that...

Our invitations: done by Mavora Design on Etsy.com

Rehersal Dinner at the Chart House, Mammoth Lakes...amazing!

(notice our tree motif in the background!)

FAVORS: Well, they didn't turn out to be peonies...as of the night before we left! So instead we decided to donate the money that we were getting as a refund on the peonies to a California National Forest. Each couple attending the wedding received a certificate of donation and ten trees were planted in their names.

Ceremony "programs": We figured that with such as small number of guests attending our wedding, and with such a simple ceremony planned, we didn't need the traditional programs. We opted for unique, vintage hankies that we had embroidered with our theme "Mountains of Love: 4-4-09".

Each hankie was wrapped with a ribbon and a special tag, each with a different love quote. The backside was a thank you for being there. Because we were so thankful for all those who made the trip to be with us!

Guest Sign In: Polaroid! at the reception, Alex and I just wanted something a little different for our guest book. I love polaroids and think their a lot of fun, so we went with that idea. We had a backdrop set up and polaroids loaded for all guests to take their photo, write us their best advice and hang it up on the twine for everyone to see. Alex and I are going to frame one from each guest/couple.

The Ceremony Location: Top of Mammoth Mountain, 11,059ft. A 10 minute gondola ride took you to the top of the world...

The reception Location: The Mill, slopeside, Mammoth Mountain

The music: Acoustic country blues by Ben Powell. He was quite popular with everyone, especially all my lady friends...we were so excited to have him play at our wedding, he's awesome.

The wedding and reception photographs: by Michael Herrera.

And the Franken's live happily ever after...(and with a bun in the oven)

This was day 1 for me, but really...Week 4...

2009-06-11T14:00:00.000-07:00

What I wrote the 1st day we found out we were going to be parents...

My brain is flush with emotion and disbelief. I have always been so excited for all my friends when they learn that they're expecting a little one on the way, yet is seems so surreal that it's actually happening to Alex and I. I took the test this Thursday morning before work. Today was the 11th of June, and 11 is a lucky number...a perfect day for the test. After I started the test, I put it face down on in the bathroom closet and ran to my dressing room, emotions taking hold. I think I knew...or it was the fact that I thought I saw the second line fading its way onto the test screen before I placed it upside down on the shelf. Three minutes later, I came back into the bathroom...Alex had begun to shave, and I fearlessly grabbed the test stick, turned it over and saw that plus sign...this means YOUR PREGNANT! I hastily turned, stepped out of the closet and with one hand over my mouth and the other holding the test strip, I said, "Alex??". He turned and looked at me...deer caught in headlights...then a long hug. Almost some tears, but after all, I'm no crier.

We sat there for a few minutes...(but it had to be much longer than that because we were over an hour late to work)...talking about how this happened so quick. I mean, we know how it happened, but we were told that the average couple takes between 6 mo's-a year to get prego...not us I guess! Never-the-less, we're totally excited and overcome with emotion and anticipation, and to be honest...a little panic.

On that note, I'm hungry.

one fine home project...

2009-06-11T13:41:00.000-07:00

A couple weeks ago, Cakes and I set out to do something. After days and days, well, more like years and years (2yrs to be exact) of talking about various projects that we would like to complete around the house, we finally put our foot down and finished one! Imagine that! Actually, you don't have to imagine because I will show and tell you right now:

It's our magnetic chalkboard wall art for our Kitchen. For less than $100, we were able to spend a weekend, painting, re-coating, re-coating, measuring, hanging the frame, and did I mention re-coating? (and if you're Alex...also on the list would be research, research and research followed by a re-read the directions on repeated occasions) (if you're me...where were those directions again? Oh well, let's just push on, come on, we can get this done, no prob...). Needless to say, I think we make a good team=)

All in all, we're thrilled with how our first home project turned out. We love being able to write notes to each other, our grocery lists, and especially when friends leave us messages after they visit. It's also a good place to showcase some of my photographic masterpieces (yeah right!), and of course my inspirations, both artistic and culinary. I have to thank my hubby for being such a good sport, even if it didn't sound like the best idea from the get go. Alex, you're the best and I love you.

Happy Happy Friday...

2009-06-05T11:55:00.001-07:00

My Favorites this week of June, originally uploaded by iamBritt.

My Flickr Favorites this week of June...All I want to do all weekend is take pictures....I love these images!

Photography Lately...

2009-06-03T20:24:00.000-07:00

Happy Hump Day! More to come soon...like our recent home project.....

a nice day for a ride...

2009-05-26T13:22:00.000-07:00

I finally got a bike! Now, granted it's old, rusted and in need of some TLC, but it was free. To boot, my husband (Cakes for short), also was able to salvage his ole' clunker of a bicycle and we went riding. You know-- it's amazing how some things- some activities, just put a smile on your face. Bike riding (especially when it's done on a lazy cruiser like mine with a fat, squishy seat) does this for me...Cakes too. We both just smiled at each other as we pedaled off. You feel like a kid again, headed out for a day of playing with friends on a summer afternoon, not a worry on your mind. Ahhh...the good ole' days. Alex and I must have had similar upbringings. We both reminisce over summers spent playing soccer at the local park, riding bikes and just being outside...being kids...outside. And I got to thinking...do kids still spend their days trolling around the neighborhood on anything that has wheels? Playing soccer even if it's by yourself against a hill? Having gutter boat races when it rains? Coming home after the street lights come on and no sooner? All I hear today is that kids play video games, watch TV, text, and are on Facebook...and I wonder if this is true...I surely hope not because there is way too much fun to be had just outside the door. And someday, when you're 30 and you hop back on your bike with your hubby and pedal through the thick summer air, wind in your face (albeit with the occasional bug or two... but no biggie... and maybe even a baby fox trotting across your path) you'll be in heaven...right back to where you were as a kid.

Weekend Plans...

2009-05-15T05:38:00.001-07:00

Picture: Flickr, originally uploaded by empresstk719. This girls pictures are awesome!

Our only plans this weekend are to ride our bikes to the Broad Ripple Art Fair. Only problem is we don't have working bikes right now. Not to fear, I have a plan. Regardless of what Cakes says, I have searched and searched and I think that by tomorrow morning, I will have something to ride (even if it is just fixing the two clunkers that we have)...

On several other blogs Madsen Cycle's have been quite the rage. At first, (although I thought they were awesome) I didn't think that this kind of bike would be useful to me here in Indiana. I was missing my hometown stomping grounds of Orange County, CA, where I could pack up all the beach gear and coolers and head to the edge of the world for the day. Not in Indiana. But then I started thinking about how the farmers market is two miles away, and Whole Foods is 1 mile away (both on the car less Monon Greenway)...Perfect for a Madsen. Then I started thinking of even more ways to use the Madsen and I thought of Duke. Our dogs, (Katie and Duke) run with us, and they love it, but this week we found out that our Geez (aka Duke) has cancer. Maybe when he gets too sick to run with us, he can just ride in the Madsen and still feel his ears flapping in the wind...just maybe. This bike is so cool, and I want one!

http://www.madsencycles.com

I'm dreaming...

2009-05-13T15:49:00.000-07:00

...Of when and what Cakes and I can do to our house to make it look even remotely similar to the insanely beautiful interiors that are featured on Remodelista. Via Bloom Grow Love andBliss (two of the best blogs ever) I stumbled upon the amazing remodelista website/blog/dream this morning and I don't think I'll ever be the same. I have so many things that I would like to do to the inside of our house however, I have never been one to methodically put into place an action plan to accomplish anything. This time might be different though. We are staying here in our home for a while longer and we might as well have fun while we're at it! Thank youRemodelista.

Pictures: Remodelista

Neutral mosaic

2009-05-08T12:51:00.001-07:00

Neutral mosaic, originally uploaded by Melissa Lund.

I don't know if you all know...but I LOVE Flickr. Alone, it has made me a better photographer...simply for reasons like this. Photographer Melissa Lund put together this mosaic from other Flickr members pictures. It's beautiful. Now I want to go take pictures. Thank you for keeping me inspired!

Happy Friday!

A garden all my own...

2009-05-05T15:58:00.000-07:00

This last weekend, I decided that I needed an herb garden. No. Actually, the department I work for decided to give us our 2009 raises in the form of a $25 gift certificate to the University Biology Department's annual spring flower sale. Then I decided I guess I could use an herb garden. Having herbs such as Italian Basil, Oregano, Chive, Thyme, Sage, and Parsley on handinspire me to cook with more thought. It brings the creative gene out in me and I begin to dream up different ways to use my herb garden, which is perched on my deck for our viewing pleasure... And then I think...too bad I didn't get the cooking gene. Never-the-less, I will make an honorable attempt to keep my herb garden thriving, and my creative juices flowing. Maybe I'll even blog about my first experience with home grown herbs...please stay tuned.

ps. I couldn't resist buying a few plants as well...besides, Phyllis, who is awesome, generously gave me her raise to spend as well and it was burning a hole in my pocket.

Happy Monday...

2009-05-03T20:29:00.000-07:00

Katie and I were merely out for a leisurely stroll Friday afternoon when we came upon our friendly neighbor. He trotted right over to say hello.

Apparently, we were hilarious.

And thankfully, I had my camera.

Katie and I told him we'd visit more often.

The end.

Happy Friday...

2009-05-01T06:52:00.001-07:00

Friday Favorites: Just the two of us...April 2009

ps. I'm the refelction in his glasses...

What I want now...

2009-04-30T13:59:00.000-07:00

photo credit sartorialist

One of the best part of Zurich was the breathtakingly fashionable people on vintage bikes. I want to be them. I would like my vintage bike to have a headlight (you never know when that might come in handy) and come fully equipped with a charming shopping basket in the rear. I will then attend every Saturday morning farmers market on my bike and I can assure you that the dogs will get more exercise as well. Katie loves trotting next to me on my bike...or she will at least. Duke...well, we'll see about him...large pieces of equipment seem to make him nervous at times...

Just in case Cakes (yet again, another one of my nicknames for my new husband-I'll explain later) decides to peruse this post at his leisure, I have included a couple pictures of potential bikes that I would love to have (their on Craigslist...hint hint=)

When I get a chance tomorrow, I will collect all the beautiful pictures I have where vintage bikes are the subject...I know you'll enjoy them.

Happy Thursday!

We've come a long way in 54 years...

2009-04-28T11:32:00.000-07:00

Being and new wife and all, I figured that I would do a little research on how to excel in my new role...this is what I came across today, circa 1955. ENJOY

http://www.j-walk.com/other/goodwife/images/goodwifeguide.gif

It's definitely official...

2009-04-25T08:59:00.001-07:00

It was Tuesday afternoon when Huzzy (one of many soon-to-be-famous nicknames for my new husband) and I picked up the mail and quickly discovered that indeed it was official, we were husband and wife. We did sign the certificate and our lady Mrs. Medina (officiant) did too. She must have sent it off to wedding license gods in California like she said she would because there it was in front of us on that Tuesday afternoon... As official as it gets... It's true, we're married. It was a welcome reminder of the last three weeks of bliss... Which at this point feels more like a blur than anything. All that meticulous planning and preparation, excitement and anticipation and it was over in a flash. I know all brides say that and I hate that I am now one of those but it's the truth. Now I'm on to bigger and better things...like figuring out what I want to do with my life and what my next blog entries will entail...probably some more wedding details... To be continued....

oh and fyi...I am really not a derelict and I do know how to spell Husband, but apparently the iphone doesn't so if you read this post before I could get to it to edit I have now fixed it for your convenience (and for my respect...)

Until next time,

love britt

Hello from my iPhone

2009-03-10T15:22:00.001-07:00

I can now blog on the road... That's exciting.

When you know you're a lucky one...

2009-02-17T19:23:00.000-08:00

A couple of weekends ago, I was reminded of just how lucky I am to have the friends in my life that I have; friends that go the distance, both literally and figuratively. They are the ones who, again and again, are there for you and accept you no matter what the circumstance. I’ve learned that ultimately, life isn’t about what you have or what you say but rather how you treat the ones you love...

Thanks for a wonderful weekend of surprises girls! I love you and miss you all!

Last day of my 20s...

2009-02-10T16:20:00.000-08:00

It never really hit me that I was turning 30 until a week ago. Remember when your parents used to always comment on how fast time went by? It was so annoying and didn't seem true. Especially considering how LONG grade school was, it seemed only in my dreams that the years would pass by in a flash. Now, as I turn 30, I realize the truth in those words. Alex and I have been together for 3 years? While it's been fabulous, it doesn't seem like I was just turning 27 when we went out on our first date. On the bright side, I look forward to the next decade and can't wait to see what my 30s will bring!

Goodbye 20 something and hello 30 something! (wasn't that a TV show way back when..."30 something"?)

2009-01-28T06:42:00.001-08:00

2009-01-27T18:59:00.000-08:00

It's ALMOST official!

2009-01-23T13:30:00.000-08:00

When these little cards were dropped off the other day, I just sat there and stared at one for a while. Feels weird, and good, all at the same time. We only have just over 2 months until the big day! I'll post a few details about the wedding soon.

Happy Friday!

Is this what our kids will look like?

2009-01-23T10:04:00.000-08:00

Say it ain't so...

Sweetness....

2009-01-20T20:49:00.000-08:00

It's been a long time. I just wanted to write a little something tonight and all I can think about are grapefruits. Alex and I are going on a diet...a grapefruit diet. You know, the kind of diet that ones goes on when they happen to buy a 20lb bag of these large, tangy treats on sale for $5 at the grocery store just because they were thirsty. So, here we go...one day at a time, one grapefruit at a time...we'll see if their still large and tangy after two weeks...

Sunday Night Gluttony...

2009-01-04T18:50:00.000-08:00

Ok, I don’t have much time to write this blog entry, but I can’t let this night pass without mentioning and therefore raving about this amazing restaurant that Alex and I discovered this evening. Taiwan Tea House is the best Asian food in town next to Sakura’s sushi! It was oh so good! The best part, although scary at first, was the bubbly milk tea (see picture) complete with dark squishy chunks of tapioca at the bottom. Needless to say we had to roll out of there, and it won’t be the last!

Alex with his Coconut milk tea

Appetizers....

Green Tea Bubbly(notice the chunks coming up straw!)

Entree numero uno...

Numero dos...

The end...

New Year's Wish

2008-12-31T14:20:00.001-08:00

Make a Wish!
Happy New Year!

photo by bellarosebyliz
Wish, originally uploaded by bellarosebyliz.

Reminiscent

2008-12-12T13:11:00.000-08:00

~The Shanakee~

Nearly 10 years ago, on typical Friday night the whole crew would get a little tipsy and converge on our favorite ole place where everyone knew our names. The Mighty Quinn would entertain in the usual way, half Billy Joel/half tanked and we’d sway back and forth in a small semi circles to Piano Man or any other song for that matter. I miss college so much. My Dad always said to enjoy it because they’re the best years of your life, and while I think the best years are yet to come, I’d say that those years are going to be pretty hard to beat.

So, one day a few weeks ago I stumbled upon this picture. It was probably taken on one of my many trips back to Wilmington (post college) when we would, again, reminisce about the good ole’ days.

Here’s to Friday’s!

Cheers.

From a blog by britt...

Let it snow...

2008-12-06T10:39:00.000-08:00

Today it's snowing...For the second weekend in a row. Last weekend Alex chauffeured me around town in our frigid truck through the light snow so I could act like a photographer. So along with this blog are some of my masterpieces from last weekend.

We're planning on heading to the hills tomorrow (notice: hills and not mountains...it's Indiana after all) to get some snowboard action in. I should have some good pics to share tomorrow and probably a few amusing stories in addition.

I hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend!

love,

Britt & Alex
(he's standing right behind me as I write this blog, sipping on his coffee and letting me know when I have misspelled a word, so today this blog is from both of us=)

A Merry Thanksgiving...

2008-11-26T05:46:00.000-08:00

Getting ready for a wonderful Thanksgiving...

My Dad spent time this last weeked passing his legendary pumpkin pie making skills on to my brother. Every year for as long as I can remember, my Dad has made his pumpkin pies. And yes, that's plural because it's never just one pie, it's many. I kid you not, when Christmas rolls around, I cannot even look at pumpkin pie anymore and the seams of my jeans are holding on for dear life. But never-the-less, his pies are the best, and I look forward to them every year.

This year, my Dad not only baked pumpkin pies, but a pear pie as well. Now I can be sure and get all my vitamins this holiday season. The pie was amazing, we've already been eating it!

This year, Alex and I have decided that after we gorge ourselves on Thursday, we will wake up on Friday and over the next three days, knock out ALL of our Christmas shopping. Is that too lofty a goal? I think not.

And on a side note, Alex and I had this convo in the car on our lovely ride into work today~ Why do we say Merry Christmas but Happy Thanksgiving? Does anyone know this?

I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday weekend!

It was my turn....

2008-11-23T06:18:00.000-08:00

One night last week, Alex whipped up this brilliant meal, all ready and on the table when I got home from volleyball. We chowed down on roasted chicken, assorted steamed vegetables and rice. It was great, and Alex was so proud that his chicken turned out so good (see pic)!

This Thursday, was my day to cook a nice dinner. Although it wasn't as good as the roasted chicken night (mostly because it wasn't cooked by Alex!) it was still pretty good. No matter if I burn it or under-cook it, Alex always loves a good filet. This time, it was over-cooked, with cheesy, twice baked red potatoes and we enjoyed every last bite.

2008-11-07T07:36:00.000-08:00

Its Friday…seriously TGIF, because it’s been a long week for me. Thank god for Wednesday night and time with the gang! That was a real savior and Alex and I spent some much needed time laughing. We are so lucky that we have such a fabulous group of friends, seriously, we are so lucky.

I know that fall is a wonderful time of year and all, I mean, it’s definitely my favorite time of year but if I eat one more apple, just one more, I think I might…well, you know. I've picked apples from my parent’s orchard three times now, and with each picking I walk away with what seems like 40lbs of apples. I’m not kidding either. I compare the weight to carrying a 40lb bag of dog food, and it’s not far from that. Of course I’ve shared many, mainly with co-workers (who needs candy on Halloween when you can take apples home instead?) who are surely sick of me pushing my apples on them. At this point, I think they just take them to satisfy me and then pitch them the minute they sit down at their desk. Anyway, I like to spread the wealth. I’ve been eating, on average, 3 apples a day and stuffing a couple here and there and in Alex’s Superman lunch box to surprise him. Now the last 4 linger in the fruit bowl, slowly shrinking and shriveling and I just can’t do it. I just can’t eat one more.

Happy end of October everybody!

And the wedding plans continue...

2008-10-29T12:41:00.000-07:00

Happy hump day everyone! Does anyone have fun plans for Halloween?

The wedding plans are coming along...we have numerous vendors booked which really takes a load off my mind. The RSVP’s are finally out! That was so exciting for us! It was almost as though dropping those postcards in the mail made everything official. I know, like it wasn’t already, but it just felt like finally…the deal was sealed.

Next steps: Well, as you may well know, I am marrying a computer geek and therefore it becomes completely impossible to plan a wedding without full utilization of Alex’s skills. That’s right, we now have a wedding website of our own. Check it out, all the details will be posted soon!

www.amammothwedding.com

I hope everyone has a wonderful evening!

A moment on the lips, a lifetime on the hips...

2008-10-21T17:58:00.000-07:00

Thanks to a good, mouthwatering conversation with my friend Jenn at work and a little blog called Orangette, Alex has been begging me to bake this bread every Sunday night. This last Sunday, he got his wish, and now we are running a few extra miles this week!

Here's the recipe (courtesy of Organette) and my before and after from Sunday:

Banana Bread with Chocolate and Cinnamon Sugar

This lovely stuff comes together in less than an hour, including baking time. And unlike more conventional quick breads, which are best when allowed to cool fully before slicing, this one doesn’t suffer when it’s eaten warm. That makes it, in my book, a perfect last-minute dessert or afternoon treat. It’s a good one to have in the old repertoire.

Oh, and while we’re here, let’s talk about frozen bananas. I always keep a stash of them in the freezer, and I highly recommend it. I chuck them in there, peel and all, and when I want to use a few, I just pull them out, sit them in a bowl, and let them defrost at room temperature for a few hours. It doesn’t take long. You can then use them in place of fresh ripe bananas in any baked good, and they’re easier to mash, to boot. The only bad thing is that they look pretty nasty. Think wet, slippery, and slug-like, and don’t say I didn’t warn you.

Before

From a blog by britt...

3 very ripe bananas (the size doesn’t much matter; medium to large works)
2 large eggs
1 ½ cups unbleached all-purpose flour
1 cup granulated sugar
1 tsp. baking soda
2 tsp. ground cinnamon
1 tsp. pure vanilla extract
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips

For topping:
2 Tbsp. granulated sugar
1/8 tsp. ground cinnamon

Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. Butter or spray an 8-inch square pan.

In a medium mixing bowl, mash the bananas well with a fork or potato masher. Add the eggs, and stir well to combine. Add the flour, sugar, baking soda, cinnamon, and vanilla, and stir to mix. Add ¾ cup of the chocolate chips, and stir briefly. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, and set aside.

In a small bowl, stir together the topping ingredients. Sprinkle the mixture evenly over the batter in the pan, and top with the remaining ¼ cup chocolate chips.

Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. Let cool in the pan on a wire rack for at least 15 minutes before serving.

Note: This bread, like many banana sweets, freezes beautifully. Sometimes I even like to eat frozen, cut into thick, cold, chewy slices. It’s the perfect snack for a hot summer afternoon.

After

From a blog by britt...

Two minutes later~

From a blog by britt...