When I look at this picture (taken last Sunday), I realize how much has changed over the past few years...and how fast the past few years have gone by.

Jeff and I got married, started new jobs, had our first baby, bought our first home, and had our second baby all in less than three years. Wow. What a whirlwind. However, I wouldn't change anything about the last four years. Every decision that we have made (or not made in some instances) has led us to where we are now, and we have never been happier!

What will the next three years bring...only God knows. I am very excited to find out.

Announcing....

Jeffrey Charles Burch

Born April 3, 2010 at 1:51 AM

8lbs 3 oz 20" long

Matthew is truly a little piece of heaven in our home. He is at such an incredible age. He is learning SO much every day! Even though he looks like Jeff, some of his facial expressions and mannerisms are all me...must be a first born thing.

Lately, he has been following me around as I 'nest' in preparation for the new baby. His 'new thing' that he loves to do...is put things away! (A boy after his mother's own heart). Jeff will take out a coaster for his coffee and as soon as he picks it up to take a sip, Matthew will scoop the coaster up and put it in the drawer. And, I might venture to say that he likes to clean up his room almost as much as he loves to make a mess of it!

Matthew also loves to build towers with his blocks, smile at pretty girls, and give his mommy hugs. He says 'What is that?' at least 100 xs per day. And his latest expression is 'Whoa!' Whenever he knocks over one of his block towers or runs too fast and slips...he says, "Whoa!"

But, I hear my little angel now, just waking up for the day. He loves to chit chat with his Teddy in the morning for a few minutes before I go get him. I wonder what he is talking about...

Snow Angel

Matthew had his first adventure in the snow yesterday. I bundled him up, and with Jeff's help, brought him outside. He loved trompsing through the snow in his boots. Jeff and I can't wait to bring him skiing next year!

36 Weeks

I thought my 'nest' of pasta was an appropriate picture for the week. Our freezer is stuffed to the brim with meals, and yet I can't stop cooking! Yesterday, I made homemade pasta for the pantry and ravioli for the freezer.

I have been preparing for the new baby for quite some time, and I think our house is finally as organized as it is going to be. All of the newborn clothes are washed and the nursery is stocked with newborn essentials, as well as diapers/other goodies for Matthew. I have a few other projects that I will be starting, but nothing that has to be done.

I am getting so excited! I can't wait for the baby to be here and for Matthew to meet his little brother. Just a few more weeks!!!

Almost 16 Months

Matthew is almost 16 months! Every day, he surprises me with his ability to learn new things and by how much he is growing. He loves to run, talk, listen to music, dance, play with his toys, and of course snuggle with mommy.

There is one thing, Matt is not - shy. When out on errands or playing at his favorite 'tot-spot', Jungle Java, he will smile and chat up anyone who looks his way...spreading happiness wherever he goes.

Some of my favorite things about Matthew are...

- Hearing him giggle in the back seat of the car
- Seeing him dance whenever music comes on
- His tiny voice saying 'Why?' 'What?' 'Where are you?' 'Hi Dad!'
- The way he wakes up in the morning...full of smiles and hugs
- Touching my nose and saying 'No' (Translation 'nose')
- His chubby cheeks that are so kissable!
- The way he flips through his books and 'reads' to himself
- Bath Time...Matthew LOVES his baths and insists on ALL of his toys joining him

There are so many more things that I could write. Matthew is such a sweet boy. I am so lucky to be his mom!

The Guest 'Suite' is DONE!

I thought my readers needed a refresher of what Jeff was working with...NOTHING. I accidentally deleted the 'Before' before picture. Picture 1970's flowery wallpaper, a built in wooden ash tray, and NO lighting. Oh, and no insulation.

And....with the wave of Jeff's magic wand...
(The doors still need to be put on the closet and built in cabinet)

Matt LOVED running around like a mad man in such a big space.

And, I know the lighting is not good and I am planning on adding a few more accessories, plus a down comforter, but I was too excited to wait to post pictures!!!