...moving right along

Received an email today with the notification above. I can't believe I am 38 weeks! This pregnancy has flown by, but at the same time, it seems that I have been pregnant forever. I can't remember what it feels like to not be uncomfortable. I visited with my darling friend, Christina, last week to drop off a baby gift and sneak a peek of her little new cutie. Oh, my! The sweetest little baby boy. He made me so excited to hold my own little one.

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas. Ours was absolutely perfect and simple. I loved being with my family. Parents flew in from Hawaii, brother flew in from DC and the rest of my family drove in from their corners of the state. It was wonderful to be together.

I'm signing off for a while to ring in the new year and prepare for another cute babe in the house. Who knows...maybe my next post will be to introduce you all to him.

Any ideas for cute boy names? (Middle name has been chosen for 9 months but we are majorly struggling with the first.)

...merry christmas, one and all

Signing on today to wish you all a very merry Christmas. Our December has been filled with ups and downs, of wonderful learning experiences and acts of service. We've grown closer to our Savior as we relied on him a little more heavily this month. As I think upon my recent sorrows and joys, I am grateful. Grateful for my faith and my Savior's love. Maybe it was meant to be, this spiritual growth at this particular time. Christmas is more this year because of it. A little more about Christ and a little less about the secular.

Last night, we hosted my family's annual Christmas Devotional. It was so wonderful to get together, eat soup and bread and talk about the true Meaning of the Season; the reason Christmas is celebrated. No gifts were exchanged, no money was spent. Just good-ol' family bonding. My dad, the devotional extrodinaire, narrated the nativity as the children (and some adults) played the various roles. My sweet daughter played Mary; a perfect part for the baby-loving beauty. 2-year-old C played a shepherd, but thought he was a pirate. He stole the show with his "Aye-Aye"s, "Arrrrgh"s and attempted sword fights. Oh, that kid...he is ALL boy and a tad irreverent.

Every word of the story may not have been heard, but I think the kids understood the message. Christmas is not just about Santa and presents; it is about something far more precious than that. Christmas is for remembering our Savior, His plan and His love.

May the true spirit of the season be in your homes this holiday and may peace reside in your hearts.
Much love,

...out before the new year

It doesn't happen often; maybe once every 4 years. We sent our Christmas cards out BEFORE the new year. A miracle indeed. It was an exhilarating feeling to drop these babies off at the post office weeks before the big day. This year, I was determined to design and mail them before Christmas after last year's late send off. Went for the postcard-style and rounded the corners using my favorite new tool.

I've been enjoying receiving everyone's well wishes and holiday greetings this year. So many pretty photocards and traditional beauties. One side of my fridge is completely packed with pretty family Christmas snapshots. Am thinking about saving them and hanging them again next year because they make me so happy. (I'll find a prettier way to hang them, though. This year all my cleverness and energy were pushed out the window by my pregnant brain.) Thanks to all of you who sent me a little greeting in the mail! I've loved them all.

Changing the subject: I will reach full term in my pregnancy in 2 days. Christmas day, to be exact. A great day to reach the full term mark, no?

...my support system

Christmas: the most wonderful time of the year. Right? Stress-free, full of fireside chats and relaxing, peaceful snowy nights? The season of watching happy movies while cuddling with your love and sipping hot-chocolate with extra whipped cream? The time of the year where you smile at your kids' excitement while they lick that candy cane's end into an extra-sharp point? (Did you used to do that? I did...)

I had great plans this year to enjoy all of those things. I was going to get my house decorated the day after Thanksgiving, Christmas shopping done before December arrived, and freelance designs done before December 10th. Lofty goals that didn't come to fruition. My tree was up a week into December, but is only half decorated. (The thought of taking all those decorations down with a new baby made my husband and me stop half way into it.) The rest of my Christmas decor boxes remain unopened. (With Christmas being only a week away, I'm guessing they'll stay that way until next year.) Christmas shopping is now done, but only just. Who knew a 2-year-old boy could be so hard to shop for? And my design jobs? Well...I'm racing to finish them before this little bean makes his first appearance.

And then, a few very hard/stressful things happened recently. Nothing worth sharing, just hard. I tried to get over it on my own, thinking my little trials didn't matter. How could I worry so much about these little things when I have family/friends who are going through so much more than I? I felt selfish and silly for crying over these little stresses. I felt like I wasn't allowed to share what I was going through because it paled in comparison to others' pain and I didn't want to hurt anyone's feelings.

A relaxing holiday season? Not so much...

I know I don't often write downer posts; I usually have no need to. My life is simple and happy. I try to find glamour in the mundane and magic in the everyday. (And really, I am still happy...just worried.) The real reason I am writing this post is to tell you how grateful I am for 3 things. The three things that always get me through these hard times.

First, my kids. They don't let me sulk. When I would like to stay in my jammies all day, they remind me that I have a reason to get up. I have to take care of them and I am so grateful that they get me moving, smiling and laughing.

Second, my church. I am so grateful for my church leaders. For their inspiring talks and their words of wisdom that seem to be talking directly to me. I am grateful for prayer and the compassion of my Savior who understands. My trials are never too trivial for Him. He always listens and comforts.

Third, my husband. J is the kindest, most compassionate person. He adores me as much as I do him. (It is so nice to be adored...) We are in love completely. He is dreamy and good looking, but also thoughful and spiritual. He keeps our family together. He is the best. During this hard time, he has been so patient and kind, offering a listening ear and a hug whenever I needed one.

And, just so you know, life is looking up. I am working though it. I still have grand plans for a stress-free Christmas and happy parties with family. I can't wait to see my kids' faces Christmas morning and for the yummy Bliss Family Dinner that night. With my support system, things are bound to be wonderful.

Now...on to happier topics. Can't wait to show you a belated birthday present that arrived. I am over-the-moon excited.

...winner, winner!

A big thanks to Tapeswell for the awesome giveaway! I think we can all agree that their products are amazing. (I wish I could have entered! My, oh, my; how I wish I had a stack of those envelope wraps. Crossing my fingers that santa took the hint. Maybe I'll find some in my stocking.)

Anyway...on to the winner. Congrats, Jodie! I don't have your contact info, so if I don't hear from you in the next 48 hours, I'll draw a new name.

Also, thanks for the concerned emails. Not to worry...life is looking up. It's not really something I can talk about, but it has made me extremely grateful for a wonderful, supportive husband who has been there with me every hard step of the way. (Love you, J! I must be the luckiest woman alive to have you for an eternal companion!)

...back in a few

Sometimes life doesn't cooperate and today it definitely isn't. I will be gone for a few days getting life back in order.

(Will still be announcing the giveaway winner this week, though. Don't forget to enter by Thursday night!)

Hope you all are having a marvelous, stress-free holiday season.

...giveaway: tapeswell

I've fallen in love...with tape. Have you seen the pretty new ways we are now able to use masking tape?? We wrote letters to Santa yesterday, and you can bet that some of this fabulous, sticky stuff was on my wish list. Crossing my fingers that Santa will come through. (The perfect stocking stuffer? I think so...)

Tapeswell not only will help make your packages a little prettier; it can also add a little pizazz to many of your diy projects. Take a look at their examples above. Genius, no? I'm loving their Mailing Label Tapes, pretty combo packs and Envelope Wraparounds. Dreaming of the pretty cards I could make with this tape...

Want to win a $20 gift certificate to Tapeswell? Leave a comment before midnight Dec 17th.

for extra entries: (please leave a new comment for each entry.)
01. Tweet, Facebook or Blog about and link back to this giveaway.
02. Add the Sherbet Blossom Button to your sidebar.

The winner will be announced on Dec 18th.

*Come back next week for another exciting giveaway!

...on my mind

-35 weeks pregnant today. Wow-wee! It's getting close. Haven't purchased anything for this little one. Relying on my storage of baby items to get me through. Maybe I should pull them out to see if I have everything I need? My last baby boy was a summer babe, so I may be in need of winter items. Loving this little outfit from Old Navy. Wouldn't that be perfect for bringing my baby home? I think so...

-2 weeks until Christmas. Starting to panic. I'll be full term Christmas Day. I have so much to do before this little baby arrives. Stocking stuffers to buy, cleaning to do, designs to complete, maternity leave instructions to give, parties to plan. I better get cracking. No more messing around with my computer camera...my kids favorite thing to do with me. Must.Keep.Working.

-Planning my neighbor gifts. Had expected to get them out last week, but alas, time ran away from me. Determined to get them out this week. Moon Bars or Cranberry Bars? Mmmm... Maybe both. (Recipes will for sure be added once I am done. Too good not to share.)

-Thinking about making Latkes for dinner tonight. Became a major fan of them in 3rd grade after giving an oral report on Hanukkah. Mom and I had to try out all the traditional Hanukkah recipes. You know us. Food...it is an important part of research!

-So grateful for wonderful news last night. My sweet friend, Meg, found out her cancer is in complete remission. This year, she lost her baby boy and found out she had cancer in a matter of months. So glad she received this tender mercy just weeks before Christmas. Shed a few tears of happiness for her yesterday and am still smiling today. Love you, Meg!!

-Hoping you are all enjoying beautiful December this year and are spending lots of time with loved ones. My husband finishes finals next week. We are planning lots of cuddle/movie/cider time once he and I are less busy. Cannot wait!

...sweetpea baby winner

Congrats to Katie! Enjoy your blanket and bib. Contact me so I can get you your pretty things.

And, thank you to SweetPea Baby who gave me a blanket for my soon-to-arrive baby. I am so excited to have something new for baby #3. I can't wait to wrap him up in this ultra-plush, stylish blanket! It is so perfect. (I kind of wish they had one my size...but snuggling my bundled-up, cozy babe will be even better.)

Also...don't forget to head down to the warehouse sale tomorrow in Lehi. (Or...online for you shopping long-distance.) There are going to be some great deals on these luxurious blankets and product. Can't wait. Tempted to buy an extra woobie...I know this will be a favorite blanket of my new little guy.

...let the festivities begin

In the midst of my husband's finals and my design work, we are trying to fit in a little holiday celebrating. My-oh-my, how I love watching my kids' eyes sparkle every time we drive by a home decorated with lights or a window full of toys and candy. This season is truly magical in the heart of every child and a joy to watch for every parent.

We started off our celebrating by attending the Festival of Trees, a room packed with over 800 trees of every shape, size and theme. The trees, as well as the other donated items, are auctioned off. Every penny earned is donated to help Primary Children's Medical Center. Because of the recent passing of my sweet nephew who received care from that hospital, we decided we should go and support.

The South Towne Expo Center is HUGE and every square inch seemed to be filled with lights. The room smelled of cinnamon scones and roasted nuts. (My sweet brother-in-law treated us all to scones. Delisch! Must try to recreate them soon.) My kids' delight was totally apparent as they danced around, trying to run and touch every tree in the room. Thank heavens for strollers that restrain curious 2-year-olds from knocking over all the pretty displays. Other than the ballerinas performing on the stage, my children were most entranced by the gingerbread village. Isn't the "UP" house amazing? All those balloons are made of jelly beans. Genius!

And so it begins. We kicked off the season with a bang; we even saw our first snow on the way home. It made our day complete. My kids are fully ready for Santa to come.

Hope your start to this magical month has been lovely as well.

...giveaway: sweetpea baby

So excited about today's giveaway from SweetPea Baby! I love wrapping my babies in warm, plush blankies, and their woobies definitely fit the bill. They are made with super soft retro-style designs mixed with minky sherpa and silky satins. Sounds all too perfect, no?

Today, they are giving away a woobie which retails for $53 and a bib that retails for $12 right here on Sherbet Blossom!

Please comment on this post by 6pm, Thursday, Dec 10th to enter.

for extra entries: (please leave a new comment for each entry.)
01. Tweet, Facebook or Blog about and link back to this giveaway.
02. Add the Sherbet Blossom Button to your sidebar.

The winner will be announced on the evening of Dec 10th.

And...it gets even better! SweetPea Baby is having a 2-day warehouse sale! For all Sherbet Blossom readers at the sale, SweetPea Baby is offering an additional 5% off the below-wholesale clearance prices with the coupon code: sweetdeal!

Too far away to attend the sale in person? Go online! SweetPea Baby will give you the same 5% off the below-wholesale clearance prices online with the coupon code sweetdeal!
*Come back next week for another exciting giveaway!

...stocking stuffers 02

Alright, husband. Don't read this post...or some of your stocking gifts will no longer be a surprise.
Yes, today we are talking about stuffers for the handsome fellow in your life.

01. Leather–Bound National Parks Atlas - a perfect gift for those outdoorsy types...and oh-so-pretty.
02. DVD/Blu-rays
03. Leatherman- Every man (boy) needs one.
04. Sporting Event Tickets - Basketball for my guy.
05. Warm Gloves - So appropriate for Christmas.
06. Cologne - Hanne Mori for Men is pretty dang amazing.
07. Audio Book - for the bike riders, runners and desk workers alike.
08. An Orange - At the stocking's toe. It's tradition.
09. Monogram Valet Tray- For those with husbands like mine.
10. Tie - Favorite place for great tie deals? TJ Maxx
11. Scarf - So maybe this one is a little more for you...he will look GOOD! Loving this Holiday Scarf from American Eagle.
12. 'Cool Feet' Laptop Cooling Stand - If you husband's 2nd love is his Mac Book Pro, this would be the perfect gift.
13. Golf Balls - Or tennis balls or whatever your guy fancies.
14. Beef Jerky - The XL bag my husband would prefer won't fit in the stocking, so I often just place it to the side of the sock. Cheating, I know.
15. Headphones - A good pair for your favorite music lover.

...the art of motherhood winner

Thank you to all who entered! It sure makes these giveaways fun to discover so many new blogs through your comments.

And...my apologies for posting this a day late. Yesterday was my husband's birthday, so I was a tad distracted and forgot to push "publish." Silly me!

Congrats to Randolph County Antique Club!! I hope your daycare loves it.

...santa pictures

My good friend, Jeri, is a pretty fab photographer. If you live in Utah County and would like an inexpensive and low-key place to have your kids' pictures taken with Santa, head over to Pro Digital Photos on Saturday, December 12! I'll be there...

...34 weeks

I love comparing this pregnancy to my others. With my first, we were oh-so prepared. Every article of clothing was washed and hung by size and color. The blankets were cleverly rolled and displayed on her perfect little shelf. Her crib was set up and decorated months in advanced with her one-of-a-kind bedding made by my mother. The toys were in place, the carseat installed and her little take home outfit from The Gap was packed two months before her expected arrival. I remember the excitment as I peeked into the her empty room. The anticipation! I'd sit on my new glider and dream of rocking her.

Things are different with baby #3. We are still just as excited, but I don't have the time I used to. No napping, no relaxing; I have other children now. The take-home outfit is unpurchased...and may end up being a hand-me-down from his big brother. The car seat is somewhere in storage. We have not chosen a name.

But, we are still just as excited. Last night, my husband and I entertained ourselves by watching my belly contort and move. We wondered what new personality this babe will bring into our home. I thought with excitement of what life will be like in a month; holding a little babe in my arms.

I am also thinking about my son's cousin, Michael, whose life was shortened by a heart condition. Michael passed away last Friday, and our whole family is mourning with his parents. He will always be missed, especially by his mother and father. His little life made me reevaluate my own. I no longer find a need to complain about this pregnancy; I am thankful for every kick and prod. They let me know that my babe is healthy and strong. Michael made me rethink my parenting. I want to be kinder, more patient, and to enjoy every moment with my sweet little ones. Michael truly touched our lives for the better, just by being born. We love him and his sweet family. I'm so grateful to be his aunt.

...stocking stuffers 01

Two more gifts to buy and I will be DONE with Christmas shopping! Oh, how excited I am to be done. I can wrap and focus on Christmas fun.

Presents are done, it is true, but stockings are another story. I struggle with stuffing stockings. It is hard to think of clever mini presents! I have been known to frantically buy the little items on Christmas Eve in a panic, plumping the sock with whatever came in size miniature. (Thoughtless gifts that were tossed a few days after Christmas. What a waste!) I'm planning early this year so I can enjoy the season.

I found lots of great things, so I've separated them into sections. Today, little gifts for Her. Stay tuned in days to come for ideas for the munchkins and handsome fellows in your life.

01. Bath Salts - Make Martha's easy recipe or buy a yummy smelling bag from the store.
02. Ribbon - Pretty satin ribbon in bulk. Pure heaven.
03. Fingerless Gloves - It's getting chilly here. I'd love a pair of the fingerless variety for driving.
04. Nail Polish - Loving the holiday selection from SEPHORA by OPI...especially that deep green!
05. MY M&M'S® Signature Gift Box - A gift whose message will melt in her mouth, not in her hand. Chocolate is always good, but personalized chocolate? To die for.
06. Netflix Subscription
07. Day Planner - For the women like me, who will never give up paper planners.
08. Fiat Luxe Felted Soap - Anthropologie, we heart you and your cleverness.
09. Mini Diaries - Made by the lovely Marta
10. iTunes Gift Card
11. Knit and Crochet Needles and Yarn
12. Pretty Tape - LOVING these tapes.
13. Awesome Lipgloss - I love Mary Kay lipgloss. Fancy Nancy and Beach Bronze are my favorites.
14. Magazine & Promised Subscription
15. My Quotable Kid: Great way to remember all those hilarious things kids say.

...giveaway: the art of motherhood

I am so excited about today's giveaway!! Michelle, from The Art of Motherhood, dropped this Spring kit off at my house and my kids and I have been having fun with it ever since. As soon as it starts raining or we have a day without plans, my daughter wanders to the game closet and pulls out the box of fun that Michelle gave us.

The Art of Motherhood was started by a mom-preneur with extensive experience in early childhood education. (And it shows! My kids LOVE these kits!) She made them based on the Harvard child development site, and now we moms have fun, education play at our fingertips. My kit has already provide me with hours of bonding with my cute kids. Each kit includes: a storage box, file folders, Minutes with Me activity book, CarTalk cards, 3 decks of cards, bingo boards, and activity pages. My daughter's favorite thing in the kit is the story game cards, where we use circus pictures and our imagination to make up a story together.

The kits would make a WONDERFUL Christmas gift for any mother, baby-sitter, teacher or grandparent. And, lucky for you, they are at super preview prices right now!!

Want to win a Winter Kit? Just leave a comment before midnight Dec 5th.

for extra entries: (please leave a new comment for each entry.)
01. Tweet, Facebook or Blog about and link back to this giveaway.
02. Add the Sherbet Blossom Button to your sidebar.

The winner will be announced on Dec 6th.

*Come back next week for another exciting giveaway!