Talia Christine

I've Been In Hiding

2012-03-19T14:34:00.000+13:00

Things have been tough around here lately. I couldn't cope. I've been in hiding.

When we went to Wellington (which, was amazing by the way. Another story for another time.) Audrey came down with a cold. She totally reversed any sleeping progress we had made and spiralled into a non-sleeping baby. Understandable.

When we got home she only continued to get worse. She got sicker and refused to sleep unless she was in our arms. Not my favorite. But I let it slide since she was pretty sick.

Then we realized her cold was much more serious. Audrey had the measles. She was waking every 45 minutes and had high fevers. It was rough, guys. Seriously rough.

After she got well, her sleeping stayed the same. She refused to sleep unless she was in our arms and I was at the end of my rope. I couldn't hang! We went to the Waikato Family Centre to get some help with Audrey's sleep patterns.

And you know what?

Audrey slept through the night last night. For the first time in her whole life.

HALLELUJAH!!!

Things have been getting better all this last week but last night really takes the cake! I'm starting to feel more like my normal self and get back into a routine. It is wonderful. Incredibly, gorgeously, wonderful.

I feel like I can breathe again.

xoxo
Talia Christine

P.S. -
If you have emailed me and I have not responded. I apologize. I stepped away from the blog and from my emails to breathe and recover from the recent events. I'm about to conquer the inbox and will get back to you soon!

Away We Go

2012-02-23T16:03:00.000+13:00

We're headed off for Wellington for the weekend! We plan on seeing some good friends, stopping at my favorite thrift stores, and seeing Bon Iver in concert. I'm so looking forward to this little trip. See you on the flip side!

xoxo
Talia Christine

DIY Chevron Wall Painting

2012-02-23T08:37:00.000+13:00

I'm a sucker for chevron! I really am. I was dreaming of how I could spruce up Audrey's room the other day. I dreamt up painting a chevron design onto a canvas that can be hung on the wall. I love the result and it's so easy! It's the perfect project for an afternoon. You could really scale this to any size.

Here's how to make your own...

You will need:

A stretch canvas
Masking tape
Paint
Brush
*A ruler and pencil (*Optional, if you really want to line things up)

Begin by masking off the areas you'd like painted in the chevron pattern.

Paint the canvas! Tip: Make sure the masking tape is firmly pressed against the canvas to prevent any seepage.

Allow the painted canvas to dry and then remove the masking tape carefully!

Ta-da!

High five yo bad self and admire your fancy new chevron painting!

Are you doing any DIY decorating lately?

xoxo
Talia Christine

Craft Room Tour

2012-02-21T11:52:00.000+13:00

This tour has been a long time coming!

Welcome to my favorite part of the house! Isn't it delicious?

I wanted a room that was super bright and airy. Perfect for seeing those tiny details on projects. I needed a space to store my craft supplies, but it all needed to be stored somewhere where I could have easy access to it. And I scored both!

I've opted for open metal shelving for easy viewing of my supplies. And because the metal shelves are open it makes the small room seem not as cramped.

I've sorted my knitting needles, crochet hooks, and buttons in old glass jars by size and type. They're always nearby and it's easy to find the right one I'm looking for.

I've hung a ribbon with clothespins to pin up bits of inspiration or patterns that I'm working on.

An unexpected bonus to having a nicely organized room is that I'm more often feeling inspired! Seeing all my beautiful fabrics neatly displayed allows me to see what I actually have. It inspires me to make and not just hoard.

The room is sunny and always seems to have the best light in the house. It's tucked neatly into a back corner of the house and is very peaceful.

It's my dream room! It's definitely my favorite room in the house.

What are your craft storage solutions?

xoxo
Talia Christine

Finished!

2012-02-20T10:05:00.000+13:00

So excited to finally have launched the new Beetle Shack blog design! Emily was wonderful to work with.

That girl. Is hilarious. I love her.

Go check out her new digs!

If you haven't already discovered The Beetle Shack (firstly, where have you been??) you're in for a treat! It's definitely one of my favorite blogs around. Her entire blog is just QUALITY! She's so refreshingly honest, her kids are ridiculously cute, and you'll find some awesome stuff to cook and make.

Go there. Right now.

xoxo
Talia Christine

Accent Vlog

2012-02-13T13:50:00.001+13:00

We decided to do vlogs. We'd each do an accent vlog.

So I took the plunge into the vlog world. Hello!

The instructions are to say these words:
Aunt, Route, Wash, Oil, Theater, Iron, Salmon, Caramel, Fire, Water,
Sure, Data, Ruin, Crayon, Toilet, New Orleans, Pecan, Both, Again,
Probably, Spitting image, Alabama, Lawyer, Coupon, Mayonnaise, Syrup,
Pajamas, Caught

And answer these questions:
What is it called when you throw toilet paper on a house?
What is the bug that when you touch it, it curls into a ball?
What is the bubbly carbonated drink called?
What do you call gym shoes?
What do you say to address a group of people?
What do you call the kind of spider that has an oval-shaped body and
extremely long legs?
What do you call your grandparents?
What do you call the wheeled contraption in which you carry groceries
at the supermarket?
What do you call it when rain falls while the sun is shining?
What is the thing you use to change the TV channel?

Play along and link up!

xoxo
Talia Christine

I feel so awkward!!! dgjdfkhjdflkjhda! haha!! Practice makes perfect? I'll have to do more vlogs ;)

Wardrobe Wednesday

2012-02-01T20:17:00.000+13:00

I'm wearing:
Dress: Handsewn by me
Cardigan: ??
Boots: Overland
Necklace: 'Little Lady' Honer harmonica /w chain

The theme this month for Wardrobe Wednesday is "Love to Love You". I'm excited about this month because it's all about what you love in your wardrobe and showcasing your favorite pieces!

This outfit I am wearing my favorite new dress. I made it myself without a pattern and an old vintage sheet. It's nice and cool, easy to wear, and sports a racer-back style tank.
The cardigan is my favorite color and my most worn.
The necklace is my a special piece that Phil bought for me when we were engaged and far apart. He sent me the harmonica and I've always liked to wear it around since.

So many favorites in this outfit.

It's probably why I wear this one so much. If you see me wearing it... that's why.

Play Along and link up here!

xoxo
Talia Christine

Halfway through the shoot Audrey crawled over and wanted to participate.

So I let her. Because she's so darned cute.

Meet Betsy

2012-01-31T16:38:00.000+13:00

This is Betsy.

Audrey loves Betsy. We call her "Girlfriend" most of the time.

Audrey loves to give her girlfriend kisses.

Girlfriend has lots of drool stains because of this.

Betsy is well loved.

Betsy's also our most asked about toy.

Betsy is a Tiny Eyes creation designed and handmade by the (incredibly) talented Dee. Dee is an amazing woman (a total babe) and a friend of mine! I highly recommend that you check out her blog! It's one of my top faves.

(Just gave Betsy a kiss)

(Note the slobber... I mean... "Kiss" from Audrey.)

(Trying to give Mama a kiss)

xoxo

Button swap?

2012-01-30T14:34:00.001+13:00

Interested in doing a button swap on the blog?

Email me for more information!

taliavanderwel (at) gmail (dot) com

xoxo

UPDATE:

Thank you, everybody, for the overwhelming response! All the spots are filled and I've got some lovely new bloggers on board!

I think I will do this again in the very near future. Keep an eye out!

Parachute Music Festival 2012

2012-01-27T21:48:00.000+13:00

Any readers headed to Parachute this weekend?

See you there!

xoxo

Wardrobe Wednesday (On A Thursday)

2012-01-26T11:35:00.001+13:00

I'm Wearing:
Dress: Vintage, thrifted
Boots: Overland

I wanted to play along with Wardrobe Wednesday but never had the guts! I found this dress yesterday during an impromtu visit to the thrift store. Normally I would alter the dress a little, but I love it just how it is! A new dress for the New Year!

This little dress is great for casual wear paired up with boots. For a fancier look, pair with heels and a pretty up-do.

Play along and link up here!

xoxo
Talia Christine

Moonrise Kingdom

2012-01-13T09:57:00.000+13:00

WAAAAAAAAAAHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Wes Anderson has a new movie coming out this year: Moonrise Kingdom

I cannot TELL you how excited I am to see this movie. So I'll just have to resort to jump kicks, karate chops, and squeals of delight.

Maybe a few kart wheels.

Watch the trailer.

You're welcome.

EEEEEEE!!!!! HIGH KICK! HI-YA!!!!

P.S. - I like the kitty cat in the basket at the end.
P.P. S. - GSEHJKSDNHKSDLK MHKSDJL ML NDHLKSDJ SDKJHNKSDH

xoxo
Talia Christine

Audrey Cracking Up

2012-01-12T09:07:00.000+13:00

Excuse me while I just totally gush over my baby here but... this video is the beeeeeeeeesssssst!

She's never laughed this hard. Ever.

We had a pretty rough day yesterday and then ended with this. And you know what? The rough day didn't seem so rough anymore.

xoxo
Talia Christine

Audrey's First Beach Swim

2012-01-11T10:56:00.000+13:00

This New Year's we spent some time on the east coast with friends in the little beach town of Opotiki. It rained and rained and rained. The roads leading out of Opotiki were flooded over twice! We spent a lot of time in doors playing card games and I even played charades (after a glass of celebratory New Year's wine). To my surprise and delight, it's actually a lot of fun! Although don't expect me to be playing in front of a large group of people. I still get stage fright.

On our very last day we were there, miracle of miracles, we saw a tiny spot of blue sky peeking through the clouds. We all ran outside to witness the sky. By mid-morning the sky was completely blue and the sun was shining. We decided to stay an extra day and made a mad dash for the beach. Me and Phil went earlier in the day (without baby) and later in the afternoon took Audrey for her first experience with the ocean.

She loved it! She was kicking the waves and concentrating so hard on the soft sand under her tiny toes. It was a beautiful moment and I'm glad we were able to capture it on camera. I think I will always treasure these photos.

Audrey's first day at the beach.

It was the perfect ending to our New Year's holiday.

xoxo
Talia Christine

An impromptu hiatus (and some very happy holidays)

2012-01-10T14:04:00.004+13:00

Phew! It's been awhile since I've been around these parts. And with very good reason. Over the holidays my husband had almost three (count em! three!) weeks off of work. We spent some quality family time together and we generally unplugged from the internet for a bit. It was really really wonderful.

Though I do miss the blog.

The holidays are a funny thing for me now being in the southern hemisphere. Christmas is in the summertime for one. It just seems... odd. But we put up the tree and played Christmas music anyway. Audrey kept trying to eat the tree and the ornaments.

I was a bit sad and homesick when the holidays started. It's the time of year where I miss my family and miss our family traditions. But over time I realized that we are a new family, with new traditions. And we are creating memories that will last with our own children. And I got really excited for all the Holidays to come. I am so blessed to be a part of this little family.

Christmas Day we went over to Phil's Aunt's house and had a big family get together. It was warm and sunny so the little ones went for a swim in the paddling pool.

I didn't bring Audrey's bathing suit or a hat, so I tied my scarf around her head into a makeshift head covering so she wouldn't burn. So cute!!

Over the Holidays Audrey has been growing and changing so fast. She has started crawling and she is quick as lightning! I'm chasing her all over the house as she chases what ever catches her fancy. It's busy work!

I'm learning, even more so, how important it is to soak up these moments in time before Audrey is grown and changed forever.

Family and growing. It's a beautiful thing!

xoxo
Talia Christine

Interpreting Bird Song

2011-12-14T14:55:00.000+13:00

This morning I turned an old t-shirt of mine into my new favorite pillow.

This was so easy to do and so satisfying!! These would make great last minute gifts.

xoxo
Talia Christine

Houston, I think I have a problem.

2011-12-03T11:54:00.000+13:00

A few years ago I used to run a small hand-dyed fiber business that featured handspun yarn and dyed unspun fiber for the wool enthusiasts. It's been a awhile since I've closed shop and put everything away. And lately I just haven't had time to sit down at the wheel and spin any yarn. It's been awhile since I've dug into my wool stash.

Putting together my craft room has really allowed me to tuck into every ounce of crafty stuff I own and make sure it's organized and easily accessible.

Holy crap, y'all. I have a LOT of craft stuff.

Especially wool.

I spread out just a portion of the wool across our bed to air out before I bagged and stored it in airtight containers. Seriously. This isn't even 1/4 of what I own. This is only some of the dyed stuff. I have about 6 fleeces and and several pounds of undyed wool left to sort out.

And yarn. Lots and lots. And lots. Of yarn.

....

It's kind of dreamy.

xo
Talia Christine

Getting The Hang Of Things

2011-12-01T13:28:00.000+13:00

It's been well over a year since we moved into our house, but I can finally say that after living here for a year and struggling with housework it's all finally under control.

We had just become pregnant while we were on our hunt for a house over a year ago. I was deathly ill and couldn't go anywhere without threatening to puke on the driveway. I often did. I was sick and tired and tired and sick and couldn't manage to do any housework or unpacking when we finally moved in. I mostly just slept and stayed near the bathroom.

Fast forward into the pregnancy and I was finally feeling good when my hips started to hurt. I thought it was just normal pregnancy aches and pains but the pain progressed. Because of my car accident years ago, it's difficult for me to carry around the extra weight without the help of a pregnancy support brace. I was put on bedrest and told not do a lot of walking. The housework fell to the wayside.

Fast forward to having a newborn baby. Housework? What's that?

A whole year flew by! Bad habits formed and the house has always been a constant mess in one way or another. And I hate that! Having messy surroundings stresses me out! I needed help.

I needed an action plan!

I created a "chore schedule" for myself to help me keep track of what needs to be done and it's worked beeeaaaauutifully! After a few weeks, I can say that I've been able to keep up with it. I've only assigned a few things each day so that it doesn't feel overwhelming. And it doesn't! It feels totally doable and I feel so... accomplished when I've ticked off everything for the day.

Mondays I bake the bread, vacuum, and dust the house. Tuesday I do laundry. Wednesday I clean the bathrooms. And so on.

It's a beautiful system and I feel in control! I feel accomplished. And I feel like the organized person that I knew I could be with a little help.

Here are a few tips for creating a schedule for yourself:

1) Keep it simple.: I've only added a couple things each day to my schedule to allow time for mishaps and crazy days. I have a 5 month old with reflux. So my crazy days are basically every day!

2) Know your limits!: It's okay to have limits! Embrace them and don't burn yourself out. Think for the long haul.

3) Assess and Reassess: After you've created a schedule and have worked in it for awhile, reassess to see if it's working for you! Does one area of work take longer than you anticipated? Don't be afraid to rearrange to better suit your needs.

4) Be flexible: So you weren't able to finish folding the laundry yesterday... Don't be too hard on yourself. Give yourself a pat on the back for the things you were able to accomplish and carry on!

5) Rest: Resting is important. I've created Thursday to be my "free" day or rest day. It allows me to mentally relax a bit and work on some "fun" projects around the house that I've been wanting to get to. I also use Thursday as a catch up day if I've gotten a bit behind. It feels good to be all caught up.

Do you use a similar system in your home? What works for you?

xoxo
Talia Christine

Craft Room Sneak Peek

2011-11-29T15:15:00.000+13:00

My craft room is FINALLY finished! Now all that's left is a few bits and bobs and a little bit of organization to get it just the way I want it.

It feels really good to finally have a workspace for all my crafty endeavors! I love having a home for all my fabric, yarn, and things.

Thank you, Phil, for working on the room for me! You are the best one.

xoxo
Talia Christine

Baby Moccasins

2011-11-25T22:07:00.001+13:00

Remember earlier this year when Phil and I worked on some prototypes for making baby moccasins? We finally came up with a shoe we were happy with but needed to try them out on a baby. After Audrey came along we realized that our design didn't stay on baby feet very well, so it was back to the drawing board to find something that actually stayed on.

We're really happy with the moccasins! Audrey is a little enamored with them too. She likes to stare at her feet and tries to grab the shoes. Cute!

We have two designs, with fringe and without.
The sizes range from 6 weeks-12 months.

Each moccasin is hand cut from recycled leather and hand-stitched. The soles are machine stitched for reinforcement.

We've decided to sell a limited number of these moccasins initially at a special price of 30 dollars (plus shipping). Please email me at taliavanderwel(at)gmail(dot)com if you are interested!

xoxo
Talia Christine

Hello to a Great Moustache

2011-11-18T13:08:00.001+13:00

You might recall that Mr. van der Wel shaved his moustache around this time last year for a more somewhat clean shaven look. I married a handsome handsome man.

After that he grew the beard out and has sported it for some time. Phil has facial hair growing super powers. He just shaved it off and said hello to his moustache. It's a great moustache.

It rules so hard.

Seriously.

xo
Talia Christine

The only downside is that Audrey is a bit shy around Phil now. She doesn't recognize him without the beard. Awww :(

Squirrel

2011-11-15T12:18:00.000+13:00

Introducing ...

Squirrel "Something-Something" van der Wel.

The newest addition to our household.

We love her lots.

xoxo
Talia Christine

The sad girl

2011-11-10T14:30:00.001+13:00

This morning Phil took work off so that we could both take Audrey down to the doctors for her shots. Her 3 month shots. We are a bit behind... Anywho. Our routine is that I step out of the room (So I don't lose my cool... entirely) and Phil holds Audrey and then I come back in to smother her with motherly love while Phil cheers us on.

As I was leaving the curtained room the nurse called me a coward. I said, "Yes, I am." and scuttled out of the room. But what I wanted to do was rip the curtain back open and say, "Excuse me?? I am no coward because it pains me to see my daughter in pain! Even if it's momentary. I love my daughter."

But I didn't.

Audrey cried and I went back in and tried to nurse her which she wanted nothing to do with. We settled for cuddles instead, which I was more than happy to give out.

We did better this time. Less tears on my part and Audrey has coped better afterward. No fever yet! She is a bit grumpy, but that's understandable too.

Maybe the nurse was having a bad day? Maybe the nurse is just a bit grumpy all the time. Who knows.

So weird though! How do you respond to grumpiness? My favorite tactic is to play possum and let it blow over as quickly as possible.

Seriously though.

...

On a side note. Phil announced to me today that he is going to shave his beard off. But keep his moustache. His beard is giant. Stay tuned for photos!!

This is going to be epic.

xoxo
Talia Christine

Also, Phil is the best ever. Just saying.

Knots

2011-11-08T10:13:00.001+13:00

Really loving this video right now.

xo
Talia Christine

4 Months Old

2011-11-05T17:24:00.000+13:00

Dear Audrey,
You've grown so much in such an impossibly small amount of time. It seems like overnight you are aware of everything around you. You watch everything and everyone so intently, just soaking up everything that you can. You've learned a few phrases, much to my amazement. You know "Do you want to hold it?". You respond with reaching out your tiny fingers trying so desperately hard to gain control of them. You know that when I say, "Mmm, yummy! Take a bite!" I have some apple sauce ready for you. You tire of when I spoon feed you. You insist on feeding yourself with the spoon. It's a mess. But you're 4 months old so I think it's pretty darn amazing, so I let you.

You're THIS close to sitting up by yourself. That part upsets me. You are in such a hurry to do everything yourself. You are on the cusp of gaining a small bit of independence. And it hurts my heart just a little. I am excited to see you grow and do, but with these things brings growing pangs. I want to push pause and keep you small and sweet forever.

You've started laughing! It's the best thing ever! Like your father, you smile a lot, but you don't often laugh. When you DO laugh it's like the greatest reward. Your laugh is a quick wholehearted cackle and you kick your feet, then finish off with a high pitched squeal. Seriously. It's so high pitched. It's almost like a dog whistle.

Seriously.

Last night we moved your cot into your room and you slept in your own room for the first time ever. I was nursing you while Papa moved the cot into your room. I held you close and only cried for a second. But I still cried.

Audrey, I love you so much! I love when we cuddle in the mornings and when you wrap your little hand around my fingers. You are my little joy. I love you forever.

Love,
Mama.

Note: For those wondering... Audrey's 3 month photos are missing from the growing series because, well, I didn't take any photos. With Audrey's reflux we were a bit of a mess. All of us. Her reflux is still strong and present but we've found our feet a bit more. It's nice.

Wellington: Thrift Finds

2011-11-02T09:49:00.000+13:00

On our trip to Wellington, I took advantage of stopping by a few of the many incredible thrift stores there. Man oh man. I scored big time, guys! I've had a few things on my list that I've kept my eye out for awhile now and was floored to check off so many things off my list!

Someone please take me back there to do more shopping. Also I need more monies. Anybody?

First, I was given this gorgeous (and hilarious) vintage cat salt shaker and matching milk jug. Yes. Milk pours out of the cat's mouth.

Best gift ever. Thanks, Inti!!

My second find was this simple linen shirt (heart be still) and this gorgeous fluttery black skirt that fits like a glove. No alterations needed! When I tried on the linen shirt I fell in deep deep love. It's simple and light weight. Perfect for layering or for summer! The construction is pretty simple, I think I may make myself a few more of these tops in different fabrics.

Next I found these incredible orange owls. They were originally salt and pepper shakers but I think they are too pretty for that. One is destined for decoration in my house. The other to fly away.

They may be my new favorite thrift find.

These tea towels were too awesome to pass up. Cats and various herbs and spices?? Yes, please. We bought this one from a local cat store in Petone. The owner was so intense about cats. Bless him.

We found this gorgeous morepork/ruru tea towel in MadeIt, a cute little boutique we stumbled upon in the city. I've had my eye on the artist that made the tea towel for awhile. It was nice to see her work in person.

Lastly, I found these two dresses that I immediately fell in love with.

The first dress is a tent. Like.. almost an actual tent. Me and Phil and Audrey could all fit into it at once. I have big plans to restyle it for a cute summer look.

This second dress is a dream. It fits perfectly and has the most gorgeous detailing. I love love this dress!

I'm so pleased with all my finds! There's nothing like an incredibly successful thrift expedition.

What thrifting treasures have you found lately?

xoxo
Talia Christine

Wellington: Petone

2011-11-01T09:49:00.000+13:00

Dear Friends and Family,
To all those of you who have asked for updates, bribed, and guilt tripped me into posting...Ahhhhh!! I'm sorry! I have wanted to to blog! Wished I could blog! And haven't. Baby wrangling and blogging is a tough mix but I'm back! I have tons of updates coming (Pictures of Audrey!) so hang tight! You're the best. Yes, you.
xoxoxoox

This last week we went on a much needed getaway to Wellington! We hadn't really been away on a proper vacation since we moved to NZ. Phil went on a business trip (fancy fancy) and took a few days off extra and I tagged along! We flew. It was Audrey's first time on a plane and it was a complete success*!

We stayed with some friends, Jono and Inti, in the cutest little area outside of Wellington in Petone. It's right on the beach, everything is in walking distance, and most of the houses are the cutest little done up bungalows. If I had to live anywhere else in NZ I'd choose there.

I still cannot get over the beauty of New Zealand. Petone for example. This tiny little suburb just nestled in between the harbor and beautiful green covered mountains. It's insanely gorgeous. The locals are just so casual about it. I feel like I was the only one losing my mind over the beauty of it. Texas is brown folks. I don't know that I'll ever get over the green of New Zealand.

Jono and Inti also have a baby, Orla-Jean. Her and Audrey are two days apart! Our stay was basically a baby party, which I loved. It was really fun seeing the similarities and differences in the two and watching them together. Audrey is teeny for her age and Orla is really long and lovely like her parents. Audrey is really talkative and scream/screeches when she's excited (I know). Orla cried when Audrey got excited. Sorry, Orla.

Inti spoiled us rotten with good (amazing, incredible) home cooking, tour guiding, and the best dang hospitality I've ever experienced. I love them. I wish we lived closer.

The six of us went went wandering around Petone to get some fresh air on a nice (windy) day. I'll note that yes, I am pretty short, but Jono and Inti are also very tall. So I look shorter. Also, my butt isn't that big. I'm wearing some awkward layers.

Okay. Proceed. ;)

Cuuuute houses!

Inti and Orla

Audrey in the sling. I have raptor claws for hands. I really do.

Jono, Inti, and Orla

Wellington is seriously cool. I don't know what I expected but I didn't expect what I got. It has a nice "big city" feel without being too big. We scored some killer thrift finds and enjoyed exploring little bits of the city. If it wasn't so dang windy and cold... I might just steal away permanently.

In other news, we got a dog!!! Her name is Squirrel. She's actually sitting on my lap right now. I'll introduce her soon. In the meantime, here are some pictures of my bundled up yeti baby to tide you over.

Wah! So cute!

xoxo
Talia Christine

*I was super nervous about traveling with a baby on a plane. I've heard that nursing during landing and takeoff is great because it helps jaw movement to help with the ears. Well, for a baby that doesn't like to nurse this wasn't a great option. She was a bit grizzly during takeoff due to extreme exhaustion but didn't cry. I had a lolli pop in my mouth and I let her take a few licks to distract her. I don't care. I'll do whatever works. It did. BOOYAH. She then slept through the whole flight! Double booyah!

Sooo....

2011-10-14T09:24:00.001+13:00

This is Audrey.

Watching TV.

She's totally engrossed.

We need to get a reign on this. But it's so funny!

xoxo
Talia Christine

Speaking of babies and you know... good parenting. If you could take a moment and vote for us on Top Baby Blogs, we'd be really grateful!

I'm a sewing machine

2011-10-13T16:17:00.001+13:00

... sewing up a storm!
An actual a storm too, because it's been really rainy around these parts! For all those that live around the area: Sorry, y'all! ;)

I've had (and have) a million sewing projects on my list and after browsing the talented Kristin's blog, I've felt really inspired to get off my butt and get sewing!

I turned a couple of old t-shirts into little leggings for Audrey! Some plain, some ruffly on the bum. I die for little ruffles on babies. The cuteness kills me and it never gets old.

We use cloth nappies on Audrey. We love them, but cloth nappies are quite a bit bulkier than disposable nappies. Baby clothes typically aren't made for cloth nappies. This is where making your own leggings is really helpful! Big on the bum and skinny on the legs. So cute.

I've also been whipping up a couple of these cuties! All in all each skirt takes about half an hour. I could probably sew them faster if I weren't such a wreck with the sewing machine. There's a lot of unpicking involved because I soooometimes get a little too excited with sewing really really fast.

The dark blue is a little skirt I made with leftover fabric from a skirt I made for myself. Now me and Audrey can match! Again! The polka dot skirt is for a friend.

SO cute, eh?

Dear friends,

I think you should have more baby girls. Just sayin.

xoxo
Talia

Crying Over Spilled Milk

2011-10-05T15:06:00.002+13:00

To say that this last month (or so) has been craaaaazy would be a gross understatement. Audrey has reflux. I swear I thought I blogged about this before but I haven't. I just checked. (weird!)

So here's the story.

Baby girl was drooling a lot and screaming when I went to nurse her. Apparently she was drooling because it hurt to swallow (WAH! Soooo sad. Just breaks my heart!). She didn't want to eat because it hurt. She wouldn't have full feeds when she did nurse so that she could cope. So she wasn't sleeping well. She was a mess. I was a mess.

We took her to the doctors to get something to help manage the reflux. The first thing we tried was infant Gaviscon. Things started to improve, so we knew we were on the right track, but Audrey was still struggling. Gaviscon is a milk thickener to help prevent the baby from spilling the milk. Well, since it wasn't totally helping the reflux Audrey was still only having half feeds. Since she wasn't taking in enough milk, the milk thickener made her constipated. So not cool.

We went back to the doctors to find another game plan. We've put her on some actual medication for reflux and things are definitely on the up and up! Baby girl is slowly starting to take in more and more during feeding times and her sleeps are stretching longer and longer. Yesterday she had a 3 hour nap. Say whaaaaaaat?

Throughout this whole ordeal I've been up and down and I feel like I've been all over the place. When I didn't know what was wrong with Audrey I felt overwhelmed and anxious. I felt really helpless to fix the situation and make my crying baby feel better. Now I feel armed and empowered. I have information, support, and a better game plan on my side. I feel less lost. I feel hope.

Throughout this trial I feel a change and shift within myself. I'm learning to love the small victories and focus on the positive. We take one feed for Audrey at a time. Sometimes we win and we rejoice. Sometimes we don't but we brush it off and leave it behind. Sometimes I feel really tired of this nonsense but overall I feel more at peace. We're learning not to cry over spilled milk. Baby girl is healthy and happy. We are blessed.

So things are a little crazy around here. I don't have the time I would like to do this or that. The dishes are piling up, the floor definitely needs vacuuming, but Audrey is napping and I am allowing myself to just ...
be.

It's nice.

xoxo
Talia Christine

DIY - Baby Leggings

2011-09-28T19:23:00.000+13:00

Last week I saw a little baby wearing the cuuuutest little leggings with a ruffle bum. I so badly wanted to ask the mum where she got them, but she looked tired and ... oh who am I kidding. My shyness got the better of me. I froze. I couldn't ask.

So when I came across a little tutorial to sew leggings from scratch I nearly squealed! I already had some fabric. My mind was made. I set out to make Audrey a pair of baby leggings so that I could add a ruffle bum. It kinda took me all day. And it boasts some of my worst stitching. Ever. But despite myself, it came out really cute!

Note: It actually was a very easy tutorial to follow. Don't be like me.

So do yourself a favor and sew up a couple of these cuties for the little baby girl in your life! Now that I've got the hang of it I want to make a few more. I have some old t-shirts that are just begging to be re-made into little baby girl leggings.

xoxo
Talia Christine

Audrey Has Something Important To Say

2011-09-22T16:50:00.003+12:00

But she is being sweet and using her inside voice.

xoxo
Talia Christine

More Than Just A Cranky Baby

2011-09-16T13:53:00.000+12:00

My last 2 weeks have been crazy. I've been a lot quieter over the internet these past few days and I've had a couple people check up on me. Firstly, Thank you! Secondly, all is well.
Or, it is now anyway. Or, it's getting better. And that's all I can ask for!

So here's what been going on.

Audrey had never had problems breastfeeding. Ever. She's been a champ since birth! Sure a little clumsy latching on at first but there were actually no problems. It was nice.

So then imagine my shock and surprise when Audrey suddenly starting screaming and crying inconsolably when I tried to nurse her. At 3 months she had started a nursing strike.

I was frantic with worry, analyzing every diaper to make sure she wasn't getting dehydrated. The only way I could feed her was when she was sleeping. The MOMENT her eyes fluttered open I had to get her to the breast before she could wake up too much and figure out what was going on. It worked for a little while. As long as I could get her to eat before she fully woke up. If she did wake up then she would scream and we had to wait until next nap time.

She was fussy. She wasn't herself. She rarely smiled and coo'ed and talked like she normally did. She screamed. She cried for ages. She never slept. So I never slept.

Guys. It was awful. And we couldn't fix it.

We were constantly on the phone with the Plunket hotline. We took her to the doctors to determine if she had an ear ache or some sneaky infection that was causing this behavior. Nothing. Clean bill of health. "Sometimes babies just do this." "She'll be fine." "She'll come right in a couple days." "Just keep doing what you're doing." "You're doing fine." "You're doing everything right."

I was hard. It didn't feel like I was doing things right. With Audrey's sporadic feeding my milk supply started to go down. When I pumped there was hardly any milk. I could feel the magic of breastfeeding slipping away from my body. Breastfeeding is so special to me. I couldn't bear the thought of losing that this early in the game. The stress turned me into an emotional mess.

Then... just like the nurses and the doctors said, within a few days she started to nurse again. But she still wouldn't sleep. She definitely wouldn't nap. She would get over tired and feeding would start to be difficult again. She woke every 1 1/2 - 2 hours at night. I was at the end of my tether, ya'll.

So we got some help. We went to the Waikato Family Center yesterday. I was really apprehensive about going. I needed help. I wanted help. But I was nervous. What if our parenting philosophies were so different that their advice wouldn't be really applicable?

We got there first thing in the morning before her morning feed. The plan was to weigh her before and after her feed to see how much she was getting to eat, then to put her down for a nap to monitor her.

The ladies there were wonderful. Baby whisperers. I swear! These ladies were magical! They calmed all my fears and I could feel the stress that was built up slipping away. I asked them questions and I could see that we were on the same page. And they were there to help. Relief. There were other mums there with babies with similar problems. It was so wonderful knowing that I was not the only one. We hung out while our babies fed and slept. We hung out while we were working on our problems together. We talked. We laughed. We moaned collectively about the problems we've been having. It was good. It was really good. I felt normal. I felt free from the reign of hopelessness and stress.

The nurses discovered that Audrey was not getting enough to eat with each feed. Poor thing! She couldn't sleep well because she wasn't eating enough to hold her over. I nursed her then we finished her off with some pumped breast milk. She napped for 4 hours. Then we did the same thing again. Last night she only woke up once during the night. Almost overnight things are incredibly better!

So, we made it. Or we're almost through it! But I can't tell you how much better I feel! Or how stressed I was. My trying to re-tell the nightmare doesn't really do it justice. When your baby is screaming and you've tried everything and can't console her. When you and your husband are holding your baby and sitting together on the bed. All three in tears. Feeling hopeless. Feeling like it will never end. It's tough. But it got better!

So now little Audrey is napping beside me. Her tummy full. I even got to tidy the house up a bit!

Amazing.

So while my life isn't always roses, I am incredibly blessed to have so much support and love in my life.

Thank you to Mum van der Wel who held my hand and cried with me during this tough time. And also for coming over and letting me take a nap. And for helping with the laundry. And the dishes. And vacuuming. And everything. She is wonderful. I love her.

xoxo
Talia Christine

P.S. - You wouldn't know it, but it was my birthday last week! I'm 25 now! What the what! Where does time go?? (Okay. I know where it went. I'm looking at you, Audrey.) More on my birthday soon! Even with all the baby drama Phil managed to spoil me rotten! That man is incredible I tell you. INCREDIBLE!

Our Weekend In Photos

2011-09-06T16:11:00.000+12:00

1. Morning tea and baby spoons.
2. She found her thumb! (Finally. So cute.)
3. Bear'st friends.
4. Father's Day breakfast

5. Sunday morning church.
6. Mr. van der Wel.
7. Sermon.
8. Sleeping church baby!

9. Sunday.
10. Bazzel. The Fluffiest.
11. Baby. Mama.
12. 350g of chocolate. For meeeeeeee! (Happy Birthday Week to me!)

13. Family walk.
14. Me (Looking at some scary dogs across the street! Eek!)
15. Popsicle break!

Hope you guys had a lovely weekend!

xoxo
Talia Christine

Blog Makeover - Tour

2011-09-06T13:41:00.000+12:00

Welcome to my new blog makeover! I'm so excited to share it with you. To celebrate the new look, here's a mini tour of the new design.

Navbar - A new navbar and new features! Up above you can see new links to my collection of recipes on the blog, DIY projects, and some of the crafty things I've made. I love having these features more easily accessible!

Left sidebar - To the left you can see my new updated profile. Alongside I've added Phil and Audrey Eleanor! His photo links to his music while Audrey's links to all the blog posts about her.

Right sidebar - To the right I've cleaned up the blog roll and added some new link buttons. Feel free to grab a button for your site!

Header photo - My new header photo was taken by the wonderful Tim Coulson. He does wonderful work. Check him out.

Inspiration - The inspiration for my new blog comes from the blog itself! My blog is all about my life and what's been happening lately. The new color scheme soft and feminine and reminds me of my baby girl and reflects my own personal taste!

Blog Design - I designed and coded the website myself! With feedback from Phil of course. I'm pleased with the overall result and can easily change and add things as the blog requires. Win win!

Thanks for stopping by!

xoxo
Talia Christine

A Day In Photos

2011-09-03T14:41:00.001+12:00

I decided to take a couple photos per hour to show what my day was like. Nothing special, just a peek into every day life. Enjoy!

9:00am - Good morning, Audrey! Cuddles and playtime in the big bed (while Mama wakes up slowly). Breakfast time for Mama and Audrey.

10:00am - Getting dressed. Playtime. Tidying up.

11:00am - Audrey's morning nap. Shower time for the Mama. Hanging up Audrey's cloth diapers.

12:00pm - Lunch time, baked potato with white cheddar, chives, and sour cream. Audrey wakes up.

1:00pm - Papa is home for lunch! Papa and baby play time.

2:00pm - Audrey's 2nd nap. Quiet time.

3:00pm - Listening to my favorite record. Baking bread.

4:00pm - Bread goes in the oven.

5:00pm - Phil is home! Bread is done.

6:00pm - Making dinner. Working on the blog.

7:00pm - Eating dinner. Chicken, pumpkin, and garlic risotto with fresh squeezed grapefruit juice. Yum.

9:30pm - Sleepytime Audrey.

It was a good day.

xoxo
Talia Christine

Color Mood Inspiritation - Yellow

2011-09-02T10:06:00.003+12:00

Lately I'm loving all shades of yellow. Just the teeniest bit of yellow can really pop and make a statement! I forever love my faded yellow velvet vintage couches and am looking for more places in the house where I can sneak some yellow. I'm thinking some flowers, some frames, or a wall hanging in the baby's room!

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Yesterday was the first day of Spring. Yellow seems so fresh and fitting for entering this new season!

What colors are inspiring you lately?

xoxo
Talia Christine

10 - 11 Weeks Old

2011-09-01T13:03:00.002+12:00

Baby girl is 11 weeks old! Monday she'll be 3 months. I know. Seriously. I know. Where does time go?

Yesterday Audrey found her "loud voice" and has been showing it off ever since. The first time she did it she had this shocked look on her face. It was so cute.

She has just hit 10 1/2 pounds and is just starting to grow out of some of her newborn clothes. I love having a tiny baby! It means she can wear some of her cute tiny clothes for longer. Every time one of her little outfits starts to get tight, my heart hurts a little. And every time she grows and learns to do something new, my heart beams. To me it's like a constant mix of sadness and joy watching your little one grow.

The sun is shining and Spring is coming. You can really feel it. You can feel the excitement in the air as the temperature slowly starts to get warmer. I can't wait to take Audrey outside to play in the grass and on a picnic blanket.

This is going to be a good year for us. Oh yes.

xoxo
Talia Christine

P.S. - Click the pictures to see them larger and check out baby girl's eyelashes. What the what! They are so long!!

DIY Homemade Baby Wipes

2011-08-31T11:24:00.001+12:00

My midwife and every nurse I've seen has asked about how to make our homemade wipes. It's so easy! So much cheaper than store-bought wipes. And so much better for Audrey's skin.

This is how we make ours.

You will need:

1 Roll of paper towels
1 Tablespoon baby shampoo
1 Tablespoon olive oil
1 cup of warm water
A round sealable container (large enough to hold a 1/2 roll of paper towels)

This recipe is for one half roll at a time.

-Cut the paper towel roll in half using a sharp knife. I used a bread knife. Place the half roll into your container.
-Mix the olive oil and baby shampoo in the warm water. Stir it quickly to make sure it's nicely mixed.
-Pour the mixture over the paper towels in the container. Let the paper towels rest about 5 minutes to soak up all the liquid.
-When the paper towels have soaked up the liquid remove the cardboard center carefully from the roll. Pull out the paper towels from the center. Your wipes are now ready to use!

We really love these wipes! I really prefer them for Audrey's skin. I find that her skin reacts better to the homemade wipes and her little bum stays soft from the olive oil. I tend to add a little less baby shampoo and a little more olive oil.

I've also used them to remove makeup. They rule.

Enjoy!

xoxo
Talia Christine

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So We Can Be All Matchy Matchy and Stuff

2011-08-30T16:34:00.001+12:00

My Mom and Grandma used to always buy me and my sister matching dresses. On special occasions, all three of us would match. Me, Mom, and my sister.

When I was 12 I thought it was soooo embarrassing. Then I got over it and me and my sister started matching again. As adults. Lots of adult sisters do that. Right? Ahem.

As a kid I didn't understand the whole matching thing. But now, oh now I do.

When I found a little pint-sized navy and blue shirt that matched my very favorite shirt in the world, I didn't hesitate to buy it. So now me and Audrey can match. I'm pumped.

xoxo
Talia Christine

My shirt: Anthropologie
Audrey's shirt: Cotton On Kids

Spring Flowers & "Petal"

2011-08-29T13:42:00.003+12:00

Can you feel it? Spring is just around the corner. I know it is.

This will be our first Spring in this house and we were surprised to find some flowers popping up in our old veggie garden. We thought we got all the flower bulbs out but found a few sprouting here and there. They're beautiful! Though I don't know what kind of flowers they are.

Kind of gives me hope that warmer weather is on the way. I can't wait to take little Audrey to the park down the street and have little picnics together.

(The neighbor dog Petal was unimpressed with me walking around the yard taking photos. Pretty menacing, eh?)

(So I snapped a photo of her as well.)

xoxo
Talia Christine

2011-08-26T16:22:00.001+12:00

Dear Audrey,

You have a cold. Your first cold. I feel like this is a milestone in your life. The first of many colds to come. You are a bit fussy, but considering, you are handling it so well. You coughed a bit at first but now you just have the sniffles. It's pretty cute, actually. So it can't be that bad. I might have freaked out just a tad when you started coughing. I might have overreacted a bit. But I'm okay now. We're okay now. Okay, so I'm a little nuts. It runs in the family. You have a lot to look forward to.

Anyway, I love you. Feel better soon. And stop freaking out when I wipe your nose. It seriously isn't that bad.

Loooooove,
Mom.

DIY Beer Crate TV Stand

2011-08-23T22:48:00.001+12:00

In a spur of the moment whim, me and Phil decided suddenly that the living room needed a bit of rearranging. It wasn't quite right. It needed fixing. We immediately turned our attention to the TV area. Our TV sat on a low coffee table that was awkwardly shoved into the corner of the room. It was so not nice, but we didn't really have any other options.

We played around with the idea of putting the TV on a large old fashioned radio. It was neat, but still not quite right. Then we dreamed of making a TV stand out of old crates. We only had two, but the idea seemed perfect. In a snap decision, Phil went to the nearest liquor store and purchased four empties beer crates. The bottles went to our recycling bin and we got to work. While Audrey was napping we stained the crates with Briwax to give them a more finished look. When they were dry we ran them inside and rearranged the crates to get the right look we were going for. Beautiful. Exactly what we were going for. Our living room felt right. Complete.

I love our new TV stand. Whenever I see it I look at it with appreciation. It was a quick and easy project and it has a rustic homemade feel to it. Perfect for us.

Now our living room is comfy cozy.

Home sweet home.

xo
Talia Christine

2 Months Old

2011-08-19T17:48:00.003+12:00

I got all set up to take photos of Audrey but it wasn't quite right. She was very fussy and was not up to having a camera in her face.

She wasn't having it.

So we abandoned the camera and opted for cuddles instead. As soon as I picked her up to soothe her she promptly puked all over herself and down my shirt. Poor baby! Her tummy had been bothering her. We got cleaned up and went to our bed to settle down and cuddle. She was feeling right as rain in no time! So I managed to snap a few more photos.

These days baby girl is bright eyed, alert, and talkative like you wouldn't believe. When I put her into her little lounger bouncy chair she happily chats away to the little toys hanging above her. When you pick her up her face lights up with recognition and a smile. It's amazing.

It's hard for me to put into words how much I love being a mother to Audrey Eleanor. Even when I close my eyes she is often in my dreams. I guess it is because she is such a major part of our lives and is always in my forefront of my thinking. I feel I am exactly where I am supposed to be, doing exactly what I am supposed to be doing. Being a mom. It's not really very glamorous. I wear my sweatpants more often than I wear any other pants. Spit up breast milk is my latest accessory. My diaper bag is stuffed to the gills and I never go anywhere without it.

And life is perfect.

Baby girl is asleep in my lap right now. All I need is Phil to come home from work (and give me a kiss) and I'll be the happiest girl alive.

xoxo
Talia Christine

p.s. - Audrey slept 7 hours straight last night without waking up. BOOM! I feel like a new woman.

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A Day In The Life

2011-08-08T11:56:00.003+12:00

If there's one photographer you should be excited about right now it's Tim Coulson.

His photos are real. Honest. Snapshots of moments in time. They aren't staged and posed. They are documenting. Capturing. Captivating.

When Tim emailed and asked if he could visit and spend an afternoon with us taking photos of our everyday I was thrilled.

I warned him that we aren't the most exciting people in the world. We are pretty boring really. But this is our life, and boring or not, it is beautiful.

I love these little moments at this time in our lives. Time is fleeting quickly and these snapshots hold these moments still for me. What I love about them is how familiar they are to me. This is normal life. Those are my books on the shelf. Those are our photos on the wall. That's our kitchen with the bright red counter tops. That's our tiny daughter who is growing so quickly. That's my husband tending the fire to keep our little family warm. All of these little things are beautiful and we are truly blessed.

We got to spend the afternoon with Tim and his wife, Kesh, and we talked and laughed and got to know one another while he was snapping photos. We asked them to stay for dinner and me and Phil cooked up a Mexican feast.

We really enjoyed getting to know the Coulson's and having them over. It was a pleasure in the truest sense of the word. If you can book Tim to take photos for you, do it. These photos are priceless to me.

I tried to pick out a few photos but there are so many I love. Check out more of the photos at Tim's blog.

xo
Talia Christine

A Day In The Life: Preview

2011-08-07T23:22:00.001+12:00

the van der wel family | new zealand from Tim Coulson on Vimeo.

We met Tim Coulson and his lovely wife, Kesh, this weekend. They stopped by to snap a few photos. I'll tell you all about it soon. For now, here's a lovely slideshow of some of the moments that Tim captured.

xo
Talia Christine

7 Weeks Old

2011-08-02T19:39:00.001+12:00

Little Audrey is 7 weeks old! She is smiling and talking more than ever before. I can't believe our little baby isn't a newborn anymore. She is a growing girl and weighs a bit over 9 lbs now. My arms are getting a workout.

Last Friday we went to the doctors for her 6 weeks checkup and for her immunizations. We debated long and hard about whether or not we should immunize her or not. We were really torn but we ultimately decided to get them. It's a tough decision and it's a sticky subject but I think that it's every parent's right to be able to decide either for or against. I scheduled them during Phil's lunch break and we went together. I needed Phil to be there and to be strong for the both of us. He held Audrey while I stepped outside the room and lost it when I heard Audrey cry. I've never heard her cry like that and it broke my heart. She eventually forgot about it but I cried for awhile anyway. Later that night she ran a light fever and was really fussy and out of sorts but she came right. I was on edge until I saw her smile again then all was right with the world.

So I'm kind of a mess. I know. I just really love her.

We have officially made the switch to cloth diapers now and I have to say that I love it! At first I was super freaked out by it. Just the notion of being up close and personal with baby poop was not great... but... I got over it. It's not as awful as I thought actually. I just throw the nappies in a bucket and soak them all when I'm ready to wash. Every time we use a cloth diaper I think that I'm effectually saving about 30 cents and saving a diaper from a landfill. In just a couple days we've saved 5 bucks! Awesome.

We have fallen into the swing of things and I love being a mom. I love taking care of her and making sure she is loved, fed, and well. It's hard for me to put it into words. I can't imagine anything else I'd rather be doing with my life. I'm exactly where I'm supposed to be doing exactly what God has called me to do. I hope we have a whole herd of children one day. And I hope that even when I have my hands full that I am thankful I have my hands full of "good things".

xoxo
Talia Christine

P.S. - I wish that the photos above had smell-o-vision because Audrey had a bath and smells SO GOOD!

P.P.S. - Yes, we had a costume change half way through the photos. I can't help myself! She is my real live doll!!

Best Donut I've Ever Had

2011-07-29T11:42:00.001+12:00

Dear Krispy Kreme,

I had the best donut of my entire life today. Sorry, it wasn't a Krispy Kreme. It was from Mama's Donuts. It's not you, it's me. I'm moving on.

You maybe wouldn't believe it unless you tried it, but this donut is easily the best I've EVER had. And I've had a lot of donuts. I'm a big fan. Mama's Donuts operates out of a little mobile trailer on Friday mornings in Temple View. Why Temple View, I'm not sure. It's almost in the middle of nowhere. However, if you're ever even remotely in the area on a Friday morning, do yourself a favor and stop by Foster Rd in Temple View and pick yourself up a couple donuts. I say a couple because you'll kick yourself if you only buy one.

These are soft, warm when you buy them, and generously sized. The glaze is thin and crackly when you bite into it. My mouth is literally watering again just thinking about it.

It's a beautiful thing.

xo
Talia Christine

Light Gives Heat Giveaway WINNER

2011-07-27T20:03:00.000+12:00

Congratulations, megangrindle!!! We will be contacting you shortly about sending you your new bracelet!

A big thank you to all who entered and supported Light Gives Heat!

xo
Talia Christine

One Year In New Zealand

2011-07-27T14:25:00.000+12:00

A year ago yesterday, I walked off the plane into New Zealand. I held Phil's hand and held my breath as they looked over my visa and stamped my passport. It was the second time I'd been to New Zealand, but it would be the first time I could call New Zealand home.

After lots of traveling it was incredible to put away the suitcases and begin to settle down! I discovered meat pies, new friends, and pukekos.

I fell in love with the New Zealand countryside and scenery. I'm still madly in love with it. I hope one day to move out to the countryside and I hope I never take this beautiful scenery for granted.

The Mister shaved off the moustache.
He regrew the moustache.
He grew a beard.
I think he's super handsome with or without facial hair. But he DOES grow an incredible moustache and beard. He has moustache and beard growing super powers.

We bought a house. We made a home.

We made an announcement. We watched my belly grow.

Phil quit work on the orchard and started a new job.

Our friends threw us a baby shower and we got ready for the arrival of Baby vdW.

We waited. I knitted this and that. We waited some more.

Then finally the day came. She changed our lives forever.

We watched Audrey grow so much in the last 6 weeks.

A lot has happened in a year. We have been blessed so richly. We have so much to be thankful for. We have so much to look forward to.

I love you, Phil. Thanks for being my husband. Thanks for introducing New Zealand to me. I love our life together.

This Texas girl has settled in quite nicely.

xo
Talia Christine

Though I do miss Texas BBQ. And cheap Mexican food.

6 Weeks Old

2011-07-26T17:21:00.003+12:00

Dear Audrey Eleanor,

You are six weeks old. It's a milestone in your young life. You've just started smiling and using your voice to talk to me and your Papa. The first time you really smiled I thought I might die. It was the most precious thing I've ever seen. You melted my heart. You continually melt my heart.

Your favorite thing is your Papa's voice. You light up when he says your name. You sometimes like to play with his beard and I secretly take mental photos to capture the memory in my mind. You looove to cuddle. You are the cuddliest baby I've ever met. I love your cuddles, so I don't mind. You love smiling and you love the morning. I don't really love the morning, so this is a worry for me for when you are older.

Me and your Papa are truly amazed by you. You've only been in our lives 6 short weeks but I couldn't imagine life without you! You're our Darlin'. My Sweets. Our Funny Thing!

Being your Mama is a joy. I thank God for blessing us with you.

Love,
Mama

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5 Weeks Old

2011-07-20T11:40:00.003+12:00

Our little Darlin' is 5 weeks old!

I wanted to share a few photos of what my day to day looks like from my perspective. The days are filled with lots of cuddles and caring for this wee one. Most times it feels like I don't have much time for anything else, and you know what?

I really don't mind.

xo

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Giveaway: Light Gives Heat

2011-07-12T18:10:00.002+12:00

I am super excited to share a beautiful bracelet giveaway
with you today from Light Gives Heat!

One lucky winner will receive the Anchored Red Bracelet. The bracelet is made by the Suubi women in Uganda with 100% unique handcrafted beads made from recycled paper. These beads are gorgeous! The bracelet is made with memory wire and can wrap around the wrist 4 times leaving so much room for versatility!

This is one bracelet I seriously love.

Light Gives Heat is a non-profit organization that fuses fashion with hope. They work to provide consistent and sustainable incomes for a bit over 100 women in Jinja, Uganda through the making of the Suubi® Jewelry line and the Epoh™ handbag line, both of which are produced using up-cycled materials.

LGH MISSION

Empowering Africans through the encouragement of economic sustainability and creative endeavors. Motivating people in the west to "be the change they want to see in the world."

LGH VISION

To See Africa rebuilt and renewed from the inside out and to see people in the West living with Hope!

Check out their site to learn more about what they do and how you can help!

To enter:

For one entry, be a follower of the blog, and leave a comment with your name and email address.

For a second entry, tweet about this giveaway using the tweet below and then leave another comment with a link to that tweet, and your name and email:

Enter to win an Anchored Red bracelet from Light Gives Heat via @TaliaChristine! http://bit.ly/c6NPBy

For a third entry, blog about this giveaway, leaving a comment with that link, and your name and email. Feel free to use the images above!
And for a fourth entry, like Light Gives Heat on Facebook and leave a comment saying you did so with your name and email.

Note: The giveaway is open to international readers!

So, that's FOUR ways to win, via four separate comments! The giveaway closes on July 26th and I will choose a winner randomly. Be sure to check back for the announcement of the winner!

Good luck to all who enter!

xoxo
Talia Christine

4 Weeks Old

2011-07-11T17:08:00.002+12:00

My tiny girl is 4 weeks old today! Where has the month gone?

I'm honestly shocked at how fast time is flying by! I am in denial with how fast she is growing. I am dressing her in as many outfits I can before she grows out of them! Things feel more natural now. We are starting to develop a better sleep pattern and I've picked up a few tricks with getting back to bed easier once we're awake in the middle of the night.

Baby girl is growing like a weed! Last week she gained 14 ounces (400 grams)! Her cheeks are starting to get a little bit chubby and her lips are filling out. I could just kiss on those cheeks all day long. And I do.

Oh yes I do.

Audrey's Outfit:
Dress: Vintage (Phil's Sunday outfit* as a baby! AW!)
Leggings: Wee Babes c/o Jess
Headband: Handmade by me

xoxo
Talia Christine

*It's really a shirt with a matching diaper cover... but it's too big and fits more like a dress. Haha!

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Bon Iver - I Can't Make You Love Me (Cover)

2011-07-09T22:34:00.000+12:00

Dear Justin Vernon,

I love this cover.

Thanks,
Talia

Shoe Love

2011-07-09T15:15:00.000+12:00

I am in love with so many shoes this season! I've been dreaming wistfully about oxfords, high heeled boots, and some beautifully precarious wedges. Here are a few of my favorite picks from my wish list! Enjoy! ♥

1. Kimchi Blue Woven Heeled Oxford - UO
2. Kimchi Blue Wooden Heel Oxford - UO
3. Elise Lace-up Ankle Booties - Ruche
4. Verna Bylar Oxford Heels - Ruche

5. Summertime Brunch Espadrille Wedges - Ruche
6. Jeffrey Campbell Mariel Wedge - UO
7. Everything Goes Wedge - Modcloth
8. Espadrille Sergeant Wedge - Modcloth

Aren't they dreamy? I'm in deep love with those oxford heels.

xoxo
Talia Christine

Audrey Eleanor: A Birth Story

2011-07-07T23:33:00.005+12:00

(Warning: Birth is not for the faint of heart. What I mean to say is that I look terrible in these photos. You have been warned. Carry on.)

Being on the other side of pregnancy I can mostly look back with fondness. I had my fair share of troubles but overall it was a deeply special time for me. I tried my best to savor the moments and find the beauty in carrying a tiny life inside of me and not to wish the time of pregnancy away. So I found it surprisingly hard on me emotionally when my due date approached, then came, then went. I was weepy and upset that I hadn't reached labor yet. I fought pangs of jealousy when other women around me gave birth and had their babies in their arms. I ached to meet Baby vdW. I was finished.

I was ready from week 37, so every day that passed that I didn't go into labor the more it weighed on me. I was scared of going too far overdue and growing a fat baby. Let's face it, I'm not the biggest girl in the world. I was afraid of not being able to birth a big baby, tiring during labor, and needing intervention that I didn't want. We planned a natural birth and I didn't want to veer from that if we didn't have to.

My due date came and went and I swear with each passing hour I could hear my nervous heart beat in anticipation. I tried everything I could to jump start labor. I danced my heart out in the living room. I'd been drinking raspberry leaf tea. I'd express using a breast pump... to no avail. It would produce some small contractions, but nothing that I wasn't already experiencing. Since week 20 I experienced fairly regular braxton hicks. I became resigned to the fact that I may have to be induced and talked to my midwife about my options and when to schedule the birth. I didn't want it to be on our wedding anniversary.

On June 13th the mister and I settled down on the couch and started to watch one of my favorite cowboy movies, Lonesome Dove. We cuddled and settled down for the night and went to bed. At 3:30AM I woke up to go to the bathroom (as I did a million times a night). I noticed a singular tiny drop of moisture. I had kept up with my pelvic floor exercises to help with my hip problems, so I didn't think it was incontinence... but still. I hadn't had any contractions... No matter. Back to bed.

As soon as I lay back down in bed I felt a slow trickle. My heart raced. I knew exactly what was going on. I sat up in a panic and told Phil my waters were breaking. Actually I yelled that my waters were breaking. Phil flipped on the light and grabbed a towel and helped me to the bathroom. My waters broke over the course of two hours in a steady trickle trickle gush and I still hadn't had any real contractions.

I don't know what came over me, but I started cleaning the house like a MAD WOMAN at 3:30 in the morning while my waters were breaking. I tidied the living room, the kitchen, and even a bit of the bathroom. I finished packing my bags and organizing things and then decided that we should probably get some more rest. We went back to bed at 5:30AM.

We had been laying down for only a few minutes when my contractions began. It was nothing like the braxton hicks contractions I had become so familiar with. I feel like "practice contractions" is a really misleading nickname. My real contractions were nothing like them and I had no doubt that this was finally the real thing. We started timing them and they came at regular 10 minute intervals. They were like these intense waves that washed over me and overtook my whole body and there was nothing I could do about it. They lasted around a minute and then they were gone. I felt fine! I felt like me again once it had passed. I cuddled with Phil in between the contractions and squeezed his hand and cried out every time a contraction hit me. I was surprised at the noise I was making already. I couldn't hold it back! Believe me, I tried, but instinct came over me and I was braying like a cow.

We waited for a decent hour to call the midwife and called her around 7:30AM to let her know that labor had begun. It was really exciting! It was all really happening.

I called my family back in Texas and we were able to Skype! It was truly amazing to have them "there" with me in the process and have their encouragement and to have them as a distraction. It kept me in high spirits and excited for the impending birth.

We continued on the same path for hours and hours. The contractions were steady and 5 minutes apart, then slowed to 10-15 minutes, then sped back up again. We weren't making fast progress, but every contraction brought us that much closer to meeting our baby.

Around 6:30PM I couldn't handle the pain any more. The contractions were still 5 minutes apart but I couldn't cope any more all of a sudden. I had this intense pain and I couldn't move it seemed! Phil rang the midwife and she told us to head to the birthing centre and she would meet us there. I hobbled to the car and we were on our way. My labor was becoming stronger and I felt I had less and less control. Fear took over me and I couldn't help but cry out. The staff midwife helped to ease my fear until my midwife arrived. The midwife asked if I wanted an internal check to see how far I'd dilated but I declined. I was scared that I hadn't made much progress and would be disappointed with my progress so far.

I started to feel nauseous and felt like I had to go to the bathroom. I rocked myself back and forth on a labor rocking stool and tried breathing laughing gas but I hated it. It made me feel dizzy and in even less control. It didn't help ease the pain of the contractions at all so I ditched it. My contractions were nearing and were 1-3 minutes apart now. They were right on top of each other.

I had originally planned a water birth. I liked the idea of being in the water to help soothe the pain naturally. At 7:30PM I wanted to finally get in the tub but I had to be checked to make sure I was dilated at least 5cm before I could get in. I was relieved to find that I was already 7cm dilated! Once I got in the tub I realized that it wasn't for me. The tub was huge and there was nothing solid for me to grab onto. Every time a contraction hit I felt lost and helpless in this big tub. I felt my temperature rising and started to feel light headed. I wanted out. I wanted to lie down.

I got into bed and lay on my side for the rest of the labor. The warmth of the water slowed down my contractions a bit and I was thankful for the break. I was dazed and overtaken by the labor pains. I think I slept in between the contractions and at some point I vomited.

At 9:51PM I suddenly snapped out of my fog and felt this insurmountable urge to push. I felt so much pressure I felt a bit of a panic. I couldn't fight it. Instinct took over and (I don't know how I did this) I jumped up from my position of lying on my side and got onto my hands and knees on the bed. It was time.

There are things about the birth that are hazy in my mind but there are things I will never forget. I'll never forget the haunting sounds I made as I started to push. It was so loud. The sounds I made still echo in my mind. It sounded like it was someone else. It FELT like it was someone else. At one point the midwives told me that babies weren't born with ear muffs and that maybe I could try being a little quieter. I roared with such ferocity, and could I have moved, I would have probably killed them. They changed their minds and said it was okay.

I will never forget the intense burning and unbelievable stinging I felt as I worked to push the baby's head out. I could feel myself ripping and I panicked. The head was 80% out and I was too scared to move on. The midwives placed warm cloths on my perineum to help prevent tearing and I plucked up the courage to carry on.

I will never forget the moment the rest of Audrey's tiny body slipped out. She immediately let out a lusty cry and made her presence known. She flailed her tiny arms around and used her lungs for the first time. At 10:12 PM she was born. It was finished. I did it! We did it. She was here. She was healthy. She was safe.

I was tired and happy cuddling with our tiny girl. She was so perfect and she smelled so good. She was so warm against my belly. She was simply beautiful. They finally weighed her and checked her to make sure she had all her fingers and toes. She weighed 6lbs 1oz. She was perfectly healthy and I'd never been so proud.

I had lost quite a bit of blood (around 600mls) and required stitches in some pretty precarious places. The adrenaline was starting to wear off and I was feeling very faint. They wheeled us into our room to settle down and finally sleep for the night. They gave me an IV and a saline drip and put me on bed rest. Baby girl was all swaddled up in her blanket I made for her and all was right with the world.

I love you, little Audrey. I would do it all over again for you.

Love,
Mama

P.S. - I can't believe I gave birth!!! And naturally! Whaaaaaat?!

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Re: Love Letters

2011-07-06T11:04:00.002+12:00

Photo by Courtney Santos

After I wrote Phil a love letter, I woke up the next morning to find this in my e-mail inbox. It made me cry, in a good way.

I love my husband so much. More than anything.

---------------------------

Dear Lamb Shanks,

I cannot believe it has only been one year!

It feels like we have been through so much together already... I think it feels like we have, because we actually have, and you know what? I still love you more and more each day.

I remember after we began chatting again in 2009, I was washing the dishes at Simon and Lydia's (Simon was drying). I was trying to figure out if my feelings for you could have the longevity required for spending a lifetime together. It was then that I realized that each time we chatted, each time we talked, each time you typed me an e-mail, and even each time I thought of you, I loved you a little more than the time previous. The more I knew of you, the more I loved you.

Having Audrey is a real test for me, and I feel like I could be dealing with it better. But you, you are absolutely incredible! Your have a commitment and patience I could only dream of. In the wee hours of the morning, when you have to walk with the mad and sad girl out of our room, I am amazed to hear you chirp to her, "Hello, my sweet thing!" or something to that effect. Your love for her is so easy to see, and I can only hope to be as good a Papa one day to our children, as you are a Mama.

And through it all: through the pain of labor, the hardship of recovery, the lack of sleep, the crying, the hormones, etc. your love and commitment to me shine through always as clear as day.

I count myself the most blessed to have you as a part of my life.

Thank you for loving me. You are certainly the best one.

Love of loves,

Husbear.

3 Weeks Old

2011-07-05T15:52:00.002+12:00

My sweet girl is 3 weeks old!

I'm shocked with how quickly time is going by. I love this moment in time and I'm savoring it before it slips away. I love how tiny she is and how she can sleep in my arms anywhere. I love how when I kiss her cheeks she grunts and makes little baby noises. I love her tiny toes and tiny fingers. I loooove how she smells.

I love our baby girl.

xoxo
Talia Christine

Audrey's Outfit:
Onesie: Handmade c/o Glenys
Leggings: Wee Babes c/o Jess
Hat & Bow: Handmade by me

Weekend Snapshots

2011-07-04T16:30:00.001+12:00

Here are a few snapshots from this weekend! Enjoy!

Little Audrey Eleanor in her clothes that are way too big. At the moment, we only have about 3 outfits that really fit her, so when she spilled milk all over her last outfit (at 3am) I was scrambling to find something that fit her so we could all go back to bed. In the morning I could hear her fussing. She wasn't desperate so I let her fuss a bit (and steal a few minutes extra sleep!). Phil got up to check on her and he started cracking up. He found our poor girl with the hat over her whole face except for her mouth. She was pretty frustrated. haha Don't worry, we eventually found a hat that fits.

Afternoon cuddles and baby feet. Two of my favorite things!

I made myself a mock Moby wrap to carry Audrey in. It's awesome! More on this soon!

This weekend we celebrated Phil's Oma's 80th birthday. It was a big family to-do and I had an excuse to dress up and wear my favorite boots. It felt really good being up and out and dressed up!

I baked some cupcakes for the 4th of July and discovered my new favorite icing. It's a plum cream cheese frosting. I'd share the recipe, but really you just add 2-4 tablespoons of a jam of your choice to a regular cream cheese frosting. It's amazing. Try it.

Happy 4th of July folks! Enjoy the warmer weather and patriotic celebrations. I'll just be here in New Zealand being a little bit jealous (but not too jealous because we're still having a BBQ and cupcakes)

Speaking of which... next year, we've decided to celebrate Thanksgiving on the 4th and the 4th on Thanksgiving. I know it sounds crazy, but I like the idea. Celebrating the 4th of July in winter just seems so wrong.

xoxo
Talia Christine

P.S. - Happy 3 weeks to Audrey Eleanor! I'll post her 3 week pictures tomorrow. ♥

Little Letters

2011-07-04T04:35:00.000+12:00

Dear Muscles,
Hello, we haven't met before. It's nice to meet you. Where are you from? Oh you're from lifting a baby all the time? Booyah!

Dear Dad,
Look! I have muscles! Flex.

Dear Sleep,
It's been awhile. It's been too long. I miss you. Come back soon.

Dear Wood burner,
I wondered if you would be enough to keep us warm this winter. I had my doubts, but you have been doing a fine job! You've made the living room so cozy for me and Miss Audrey during the cold nights when she needs to be nursed. You are the best!

Dear Kitchen,
I know I've been away. It's been due to all the lovely freezer meals we've been blessed with! Well, we're nearly through them all and we'll be getting acquainted again soon! Try not to get too messy.

Dear Phil,
Thanks for hanging in there and loving me on my crazy days. Like yesterday. Yikes. Thanks for waking up in the middle of the night to change nappies or stoke the fire or for rolling over and cuddling with me. You're the best. By far. I love you. I super love you. Thank you, Love.

Love,
Talia

Audrey's Funny Faces

2011-07-02T12:02:00.000+12:00

This sweet girl has been making us laugh with her funny faces. The iPhone in the video is for size comparison. Tiny girl!

Happy Weekend!

xoxo
Talia Christine

Audrey Eleanor - 2 weeks old

2011-06-27T16:31:00.002+12:00

Our sweet tiny girl is 2 weeks old today! It seems like we have had her in our lives for a lot longer than 2 weeks. Time is funny these days.

I am getting used to her in our lives and getting used to no sleep. Don't get me wrong, it's still tough at 3:00AM, but I'm learning how to sleep more deeply in a short amount of time. As a person who looooves to sleep, I'm amazed with how little sleep I can get and still function. My eyes feel like sandpaper, but I crave those little sweet moments when we cuddle. I'm addicted to kissing her little soft cheeks. I like whispering little secrets to her about how crazy I am about her. All in all, I'm a fan. I guess we'll keep her.

Our midwife dropped by for our 2 week appointment today. Miss Audrey has gained 240gms since last Monday. She's breastfeeding so well! Also, I'm officially on a high calorie diet to balance the weight I'm losing from breastfeeding. Ha!!

To celebrate I ate a cookie. A really big cookie.

Shucks.

xoxo
Talia Christine

P.S. - Wearing my old clothes is SO AWESOME!

Love Letters

2011-06-24T15:49:00.000+12:00

Our one year anniversary is in two days! Hearing and realizing that we've only been married a year is shocking! It feels like we were married a long time ago, in a good way. A really good way. I wanted to write a few love letters to my Mr. van der Wel to celebrate our very first anniversary.

--------------

Taken on our honeymoon road trip. I love this photo.

Dear Philip,

Our anniversary is in two days. Can you believe it? A lot has happened in one year. We were married. We moved countries. We became pregnant. We bought a house. We had a sweet little girl and we named her Audrey. We did all these things together which is my favorite way to do things.

I'll never forget when we first met. I had butterflies, actual butterflies! I was so nervous and clumsy around you. I had trouble understanding your accent at first, but I was so taken by your gentleness and sincerity, things which I still admire so much about you. I wanted to spend as much time as I could with you before I left to go back to the States. I remember sitting and playing guitar with you, grocery shopping, and taking walks in the snow. Even though we lost touch for a few years, I still treasure those moments in my heart. I'll never forget the last walk we had before my flight the next day. I cried.

Here we are, married now. I am so madly and deeply in love with you. You are such a pillar in my life and your love for me astonishes me every day.

I love you. Always.

Your wife,
Lamb shanks

Also from our road trip. It was awesome.

Audrey E. Update

2011-06-22T11:31:00.001+12:00

Audrey's weigh in.

Little Updates:

-Audrey lost her umbilical cord after 4 days. I'm not gonna lie, it really freaked me and Phil out. It was so gross and I couldn't tell if it was okay or not. It's all healed and looks great now. Deep sigh of relief. I did not enjoy that process.

-Last Monday our midwife dropped by to check on our progress and weigh little Miss Audrey E. After 1 week she is already back to her birth weight! Wahoo!

-I'm back into my pre-pregnancy jeans. I'm over the moon! I expected to give myself a few months to ease back into my old clothes. I'm already planning my outfits.

-No stretch marks! Again. Over the moon.

---------------

Our tiny girl is a little wonder. I find myself staring at our beautiful daughter for long periods of time. She is so captivating, it makes it hard for me to do anything else. I'm amazed at how my love for her is growing and maturing every day. I love everything about her, including the fact that she needs me all the time.

I can already see her changing. I know that from the moment she was born she started growing up. It already causes my heart to ache. I'm trying to hang on to every precious moment and lock them up in my heart and my mind.

Lately, I'm also feeling really loved. When I think of how much I love and care for my little daughter, I am reminded of how much the Lord cares and loves for me. It chokes me up a bit. His love for us is beyond compare. My ears are so tuned to Audrey's little cries and puppy noises, just how God hears my cries. It makes my head spin with wonder and awe. Loving my daughter has brought me so much new perspective in my life. I can say that I expected some level of change on my perspective but never to this degree.

Our tiny girl is settling into our lives beautifully. I am feeling more comfortable and easy with my new role as a Mama. I am feeling more empowered and less afraid. I am getting used to our new sleep schedule and I feel more adjusted to life with a newborn. It's a gorgeous feeling.

xoxo
Talia Christine

One Week Old

2011-06-20T15:44:00.002+12:00

Audrey is one week old today!

The first week went by really fast and felt like an eternity all at the same time. She is an absolute doll and I can't get enough of her. I find myself just staring at her when I should be catching up on some sleep.

Our midwife came by today to weigh little miss Audrey and she is back to her birth weight after one week! Yay! I'm a proud mama. I can't help myself.

I am feeling more like my normal self again, which is so wonderful! I love it! I still feel tired, but just normal not-getting-enough-sleep tired. Not tired from blood loss or low iron levels. Me and Audrey have had a wonderful day today. Things are really looking up.

I think I really like this whole "Mama Business".

xoxo
Talia Christine

6 days old.

2011-06-19T16:02:00.003+12:00

Our little miss Sweet Bean is 6 days old today!

I can just barely handle her soft skin and kissable cheeks. We are totally and completely in love. She has stolen our sleep and our hearts. Funny how they do that, eh?

xoxo
Talia Christine

P.S. - She is already changing and growing* so fast! I have to keep the camera at my side just to keep up!

*But not growing too fast. Preemie clothes are still too big on her. Tiny thing.

On Being A (Very New) Mom

2011-06-17T19:44:00.001+12:00

No one really told me. Or I guess they tried but I didn't have the slightest clue what new mommy-hood would be like. I can honestly and very easily say it's the hardest thing I've ever done!

My precious baby girl is asleep in my lap. It's 7:30PM and feels like the middle of the night. We have already gone to bed for the night and she woke up crying. Her skin is so soft and new. She smells good. I can't explain it really, she just smells brand new. My daughter is 4 days old. I can't believe we've only had her 4 days. It seems so much longer than that and at the same time everything is still so new and sometimes really scary.

Yesterday was the worst. It was easily the worst day I've ever had. I know that sounds dramatic, but it is what it is. The culprit? Not my baby girl, but hormones. I've heard of "baby blues" but I had no idea how hard it would hit as my hormones drastically changed after giving birth. YIKES! I literally cried all day. I felt palpable fear rack my entire body. My muscles still aren't forgiving me for the stress that I felt yesterday.

I felt scared of not ever recovering (not logical, I know). My stitches hurt. My breasts were aching. Holy crap I'm a mom. I feel nauseous. I feel dizzy from blood loss. Am I healing OK? Is my baby breathing? What if I get an infection? What do I do? How do I make it to the next hour? I haven't had sleep since birth. Somebody save me! Someone make it better. I miss my mom.

These are some of the mental and emotional challenges I faced yesterday, and it was just too much. The funny thing is that today I'm fine. Today I feel like me again. I still feel exhausted but today I am stronger. I cried out to God so many times yesterday. He carried me through, but I had my doubts I would make it.

Yesterday is gone and I am so madly in love with this baby. It's silly how much I love her. She is still sleeping and I am going to try and get some very much needed rest.

I can honestly say though, that I love being a mom. I love this tiny life that we were entrusted with. I am blown away. Today was easier than yesterday. I look forward to tomorrow.

Love,
A very sleepy Talia Christine

Introducing...

2011-06-16T12:37:00.001+12:00

Audrey Eleanor van der Wel

Born on June 13th, 2011
Weighed: 6lbs 1oz

We are so in love with our little tiny girl!

Baby vdW: Labor Update

2011-06-13T16:20:00.000+12:00

My waters broke at 3:30 AM and we have been laboring for over 12 hours now. My contractions have slowed down a bit but have increased in intensity. In all likelyhood, we'll be meeting our little one tonight!

Please keep us in your prayers!

xoxo
Talia Christine

Aaannnd still waiting

2011-06-12T09:05:00.001+12:00

Hey everybody!

Just dropping in to say that the due date has come and gone! Still no Baby vdW just yet. Sigh. In the meantime, I'm baking cookies, getting lots of rest, and watching cowboy movies with Phil while we wait for this little one's arrival.

This waiting business is tough stuff. Keep us in your prayers!

xoxo
Talia Christine

Due Date

2011-06-09T09:00:00.000+12:00

Dear Baby van der Wel,

Today is your due date. Me and your father would very much like to meet you and I think today would be a good day. Hurry hurry! We love you!

Love,
Your Mama

Well and Waiting

2011-06-07T11:23:00.001+12:00

My pregnancy notebook that my midwife writes my progress in currently says:

Well and waiting.

Let me tell you, it is SO hard to be this near the end of the pregnancy and not feel antsy! Trying to find contentment is harder and harder. I'm finding I really have to dig deep and trust in God and His timing and it's harder than I thought. To counteract the restlessness and anxiousness I've been feeling, I've been counting my blessings. I soon realize that all of the good FAR outweighs the waiting.

I have the most fantastic husband, ever. That's a fact.
We are incredibly blessed beyond belief in our marriage, the things God has provided for us, and the fact that baby is really healthy.

So blessed. And even if none of that were true, I can still find peace in God knowing that we are in His hands. At this point I am just being impatient and that's a place I don't want to be!

So in the meantime, me and the Mister have been busy with the last of the preparations for baby. We bought some bottles, a rocker/recliner bouncer thingy (courtesy of my sister and her husband), and the cutest little brown pants you ever did see. And since I have so much time waiting on Baby van der Wel's arrival, I decided to make a little miniature hoodie!

Wah! It's so cute! I can't wait to dress up our little Bean!

Keep us in your prayers! We will keep you posted. Come on, Bean. We are ready to meet you. Pretty please?

xoxo
Talia Christine

P.S. - The pattern for the little knit hoodie can be found here! Aw!

Baby Moccassins

2011-06-01T10:52:00.000+12:00

We've been busy around here and we've finished the final prototype for our baby moccasins!

After lots and lots of mockups, stitching and restitching, we finally have a pattern that we're ready to go forward with! We'll start production and sizing soon. I'm so excited! Stay tuned!

P.S. - Why is anything miniature SO MUCH cuter than its bigger size?

xoxo
Talia Christine

Quiet Days

2011-05-31T13:39:00.001+12:00

Things have been really quiet around here as we wait for our Little Bean's appearance. Since we have pretty much finished organizing all the baby things time seems to suddenly be at a stand still. Before we had everything ready for the baby, time was flying by! Maybe it was because I wanted time to slow down so I could hurry and get the baby clothes ready and things like that, maybe it's because I'm near the end of the pregnancy.

We have 9 days until the due date so I'm trying not to get too antsy!

To keep myself preoccupied I've been knitting some more little baby things. I've knit 3 pairs of baby socks in a couple different sizes. They are SO tiny and cute!

Yesterday I had some strong contractions for about an hour but they eventually stopped. It was so exciting then so disappointing! We will keep you guys posted on any news of the baby, so stay tuned here and follow me on Twitter for quicker updates. Until then, I am trying to content myself with my last days of pregnancy. Me and Phil have a date planned and I am really looking forward to that :)

I have the best husband ever.

xoxo
Talia Christine

Nursery Sneak Peeks

2011-05-26T15:09:00.000+12:00

Phil and I have sorted out the baby room last week. It looks so lovely and serene. I love just peeking into the room and envisioning putting it to use.

Last night we went through all the baby clothes, sorted them by size and put them all away. We decided on what clothes and things to bring with us to the birthing center. We laughed and held up little outfits to each other and imagined how we would dress our little one.

This is how we spend our Wednesday nights together.
I wouldn't want it any other way.

I love you, Mr. van der Wel!

Love,
Talia Christine

Dreamcats

2011-05-26T10:53:00.001+12:00

Lately, I've been trying to woo some of the neighborhood cats into being my friend but to no avail. In lieu of needing some cat companionship, I just visited Dreamcats instead. There I can get my fill of all manner of kitty cat goodness.

So I thought I would share. Enjoy.

For more cat love visit dreamcats.tumblr.com!
Pretty much my favorite website.

xoxo
Talia Christine

Baby Shower

2011-05-24T12:20:00.000+12:00

This weekend I celebrated the coming arrival of Beansy with my girlfriends and family! My friends were dear enough to throw a baby shower for me. I was really nervous. I'd only been to one other baby shower in my life but I should have been doing this all along because it was awesome! It was so lovely to be surrounded by such loving and supportive women. It meant a lot to me, especially being so far away from my Mom, my Grandma, and my sister. Plus, the girls had a special surprise in store for me. We Skyped with my family and magically it was like my Mom, Grandma, and sister were there! It was the best.

We got some lovely and thoughtful gifts! I feel more well prepared for the arrival of the Bean. Speaking of which, I need to finish organizing the baby room (pics soon!) and start packing our bags for the birthing centre... but a slice of leftover cake and a cup of tea sounds much better.

A HUGE thank you to Jess and Renee for making me feel so loved and throwing me the baby shower! I can't thank you girls enough.

♥
Talia Christine

The Final Countdown: 3 weeks

2011-05-19T09:38:00.000+12:00

I've officially made it to 37 weeks. If Beansy were born now the baby would be considered full term and not preem. I am so proud of my body for making it this far. I am so thankful to God that all is well. For now we continue to wait and pray for our baby.

We are literally on the brink of changing our lives forever. These are the last few weeks it will be just me and Phil. Not long and I will be in labor. We'll be able to hold our baby in our arms. We will be parents. It all makes me a little emotional just thinking about it all. It's a little overwhelming but I'm trying my best to soak up these moments and these feelings before they are gone forever.

I have been feeling great! 'Great' is really an understatement though. My hips miraculously don't hurt and click anymore. The baby has moved down and is fully engaged in my pelvis which took the pressure off my back and hips. I can walk up and down stairs! I don't need help getting in and out of bed. I can move and be without wanting to cry from the pain. It's incredible. I feel the best I've felt in my whole pregnancy. It really is amazing.

Even though my pregnancy hasn't been easy, I will miss it. I've grown to really love my belly and the curve that it makes. I love feeling the baby move and roll around. I love that I can feel where the baby's tiny feet are (usually in my ribs, oof!) and the tiny little baby bum. My favorite is when the baby gets hiccups. It's so precious and sweet being able to feel the constant thump-thump of the hiccups that belong to the new life within me. I will miss rubbing my belly and wondering what the baby will be like, but soon we will know. I look forward to seeing whose eyes and whose nose will be passed down. I look forward to seeing what sort of personality the baby will have and what things interest and shape them.

I also look forward to the little things, like being able to bend over and pick up shoes off the ground without groaning and straining. I can't wait to lie on my stomach again. I can't wait to wear my old clothes again. I can't wait to have an egg sunny-side up. It's the little things.

Not long now. I can't believe all of this and more is about to happen.
Somebody pinch me.

♥
Talia Christine

Call For The Crafty

2011-05-18T11:45:00.001+12:00

All right, folks! I am in need of a stylish and cute diaper bag for carting around the Bean's things, however, it's just not in the budget to go out and buy one at the moment. So with that option out, I'd love to make my own! That's where you crafty guys and gals come in. Do any of you know of a reliable pattern so I can make my own? I'd love to know!

Thanks!!

♥
Talia Christine

The Vintage Stroller

2011-05-17T11:45:00.000+12:00

We picked up this little beauty at a garage sale for 10 bucks.
It was the find of our lives! I am sooo in love with this vintage stroller.

We plan on using it as a bassinet for our little Bean.
Convenient too, because I can wheel it from room to room! Love.

I've given it a good scrub inside and out and fitted a new mattress into it. It's gorgeous and cozy. One day I'd like to fully restore it to its original beauty, but that's a job for another day.

3 weeks and 2 days until the due date! Last night I had a dream that we had the baby and sent out an announcement email announcing Baby vdW's arrival. In the dream I kept trying to access and read the e-mail so I could finally find out whether it was a boy or a girl! SO silly. Ah well, we will find out soon enough and I can't wait!

♥
Talia Christine

DIY Frozen Burritos

2011-05-16T14:44:00.002+12:00

I love food. So with Baby vdW's due date a little less than 4 weeks away I've been making a few extra meals to freeze for after the baby arrives. I'm lucky to have a bit of extra time so why not, right? However, when I stumbled across a recipe for these homemade freezer burritos I knew I had to give it a try. They could not be simpler or quicker to make! Once I had all my ingredients it took less than half an hour to get everything assembled, wrapped up, and put away! Brilliant! Anyone can do these!

This is how I did it but you can customize them any way you like! You can add meat or just stick with a plan bean and cheese burrito. You can make them spicy or keep em mild, just how you like it! What a treat.

According to the original recipe, you can pop these straight in the microwave for a few minutes or heat them up in the oven for 40 minutes and you've instantly got a delicious meal ready to go! I made 12, but only 11 made it to the freezer. They are divine.

Pretty genius, right? Give them a try, you'll thank me later.

xo
Talia Christine

Guest Blog Post: A Beautiful Mess

2011-05-14T12:24:00.000+12:00

Hello, lovelies!!

In case you missed it, I did a guest blog post over on Elsie's blog A Beautiful mess!

I posted a sweet treat recipe for mini-banoffee pies. They are SO tiny and cute! Head on over and take a peek.

♥
Talia Christine

First Blanket

2011-05-12T12:25:00.000+12:00

I finally finished spinning and knitting the blanket for Baby vdW! I love how it turned out and it's incredibly soft. I've put the blanket in the bassinet and I can't stop taking little peeks at it and imagining our little one snoozing in it.

Today marks 4 more weeks until the due date! One more week and I'll be considered full term. We are getting so close!

With the leftover yarn I made a little matching hat (Phil's idea) so when the Little is all swaddled up he or she has a little hat to match! CUTE! I think I'm going to work on some little booties tonight.

Total yardage spun: 646 yards 3-ply
Weight: fingering/worsted
Blend: merino/tencel

xoxo
Talia Christine

Color Mood Inspiration - Gray

2011-05-11T08:00:00.005+12:00

When I'm shopping or browsing I often find myself being drawn to a color over and over. I'll have a handful of clothes and look down and realize that everything I picked out was the same color. It's hard to break! I call it being in a color mood. It changes all the time and it keeps me inspired!

Right now I find myself being drawn to and inspired by the more monochromatic gray tones. They are so so lovely. I want to surround myself in these gorgeous subtle gray tones both in my home and in my wardrobe.

1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6.

What colors are inspiring you lately?

♥
Talia Christine

Car Seat

2011-05-10T11:51:00.004+12:00

We installed the car seat this weekend!
Phil did all the hard work. I just stood around for moral support snapping photos to document the occasion. Car seats are complicated business, folks! I had no idea.

Ta-da!

We got it checked out by a local Plunket nurse and double checked by a garage to make sure it was installed safely.

So exciting!!

♥
Talia Christine

35 Week Baby Belly

2011-05-09T13:43:00.001+12:00

Mama's Wearing: Vintage dress, thrifted

Yesterday was Mother's Day here in NZ and though the Bean isn't here yet Phil treated me to a delicious dark chocolate bar and a home cooked dinner to die for. We had bacon wrapped eye filet steaks, baked potatoes (for me), rice (for Phil), steamed broccoli and green beans. He gave me a back rub and we watched Masterchef.

With only 5 weeks to go until the due date we are savoring these evenings together as a small two-person family.

These days I can feel the little Bean's legs and feet against my belly. I can feel the heel and sometimes I'll give it a little tickle and the Baby moves the foot away. SO SWEET! Around 33 weeks the baby was breech but finally did the ol' flip around. I am so thankful!

Thank you for the wonderful day, Husband! I love you so much!! I appreciate everything you do for me, like helping me in and out of bed and getting me the hot water bottle for my back. I cherish the sleepy morning kisses you give me before you go to work and the little texts throughout the day. You are my love and I am so incredibly lucky to have you in my life. You're the best one.

♥
Talia Christine

Happy Mother's Day to my own wonderful Mama! I miss you so much and you are such a good Mama to me. Thank you for raising me and for loving me all these years.

A Special Birthday

2011-05-06T10:12:00.002+12:00

Today my little brother is 18!

Yeowza! That makes me feel old... legitimately old.

It really feels like just yesterday we were still just kids
and now you're all grown up.

You've grown into a young man before my eyes and I can hardly believe it. You've been through a lot and learned a lot, and there is plenty more to come. I'm proud to be your big sister. I'm proud of you and I love you so much.

Happy Birthday, Josh!

Love,
Talia

Sushi Date

2011-05-05T10:08:00.000+12:00

Me and Phil often have little stay at home dates where we make a meal together and cozy up on the couch and watch a movie or one of our favorite TV shows. I love our special nights together and cherish them as the last moments before we make our family a little larger!

Last night we had a little sushi date and watched a little Survivor on the laptop! I knitted a blanket for the Baby while Phil rubbed my back (Bless that man!!). We both cheered and got angry at the show's villains. It was a really nice night.

I love that man and our little dates together!

xoxo
Talia Christine

PRVDW

2011-05-05T09:00:00.000+12:00

Remember when we spent a weekend in Karapiro and Mr. van der Wel recorded a few of his electric songs?
He's released a few demos and I'm so proud of him!

<p>&amp;lt;a href="http://prvdw.bandcamp.com/album/prvdw"&amp;gt;PRVDW by PRVDW&amp;lt;/a&amp;gt;</p>

The songs are somber and serious but oh-so-good. They remind me of the slow and melodic songs of early Pedro the Lion. The song "Unfaithful" was written in direct contrast to the hymn "Great Is Thy Faithfulness" and was meant to play right after "Unfaithful" but the track got lost in the mix. We'll find it soon!
(I was gonna say, 'We'll track it down soon.' Get it? ha ha)

Head on over to Bandcamp and give it a listen!

♥
Talia Christine

Final Countdown: 5 weeks

2011-05-04T09:48:00.000+12:00

... until Bean's due date!

I can hardly wait to meet this little one and finally find out whether the Bean I've been baking is a boy or a girl.

I've been scouring the craft world looking for cute things to make for the baby and there's so many cute gender specific things! Can't wait to know which I'll be able to make for the baby!

Little Gentlemen's Faux Vest Onesie

photo source
Ballerina Shoes Pattern

I've been knitting up a storm and still have quite a few things on my list to do before the baby arrives! I've been running really low on energy lately and naps are becoming a must these days. Hopefully we will get everything sorted in time!

Anyone want to help me sort a storage room and make it into a baby room? Yes, we're cutting it close. I know.

xoxo
Talia Christine

A Royal Tea Party

2011-04-29T10:59:00.000+12:00

Today is the Royal Wedding and you can bet I'm going to a viewing party to celebrate the occasion! It isn't every day there is a royal wedding you know. I'm baking some yummy treats and making finger sandwiches to have at our late night tea party with my girlfriends.

I'm not going to lie. I LOVE tea parties. Our wedding decoration was mostly tea party stuff. If I had it my way, I'd celebrate every occasion with a tea party.

source

I'm off to bake some treats!! Be back soon!

xoxo
Talia Christine

Beansy's Beanie

2011-04-27T18:08:00.000+12:00

SIX WEEKS TO GO! Until the Bean's due date that is!!

Pretty crazy exciting isn't it?

It is so rainy and cold here right now! It's PERFECT weather to be cozied up inside knitting, which is exactly what I've been spending a lot of my time doing. I've been knitting up a storm. I started and finished a vest (which is not pictured because it is still drying after two days. Grrr.), finished spinning 650 yards of merino/tencel yarn, and a tiny little beanie to keep our Little warm.

Phil made the wooden buttons for me right before we were engaged! He was still in Australia and I was in Texas and we mailed little things back and forth. I've been saving them and I can't think of a better use for the buttons than for our own little one. They are quite special.

If you're interested in making your own Little a special little hat or for some other Little you know here is the pattern I used:

Ruth's Perfect Fit Baby Hat

The yarn I used was my own handspun yarn and I didn't follow the pattern exactly as I used a thinner yarn than the pattern called for.

Next up? Bean's baby blanket out of the yarn I was working on last week.

xoxo
Talia Christine

Pickled Jalapenos

2011-04-23T16:31:00.000+12:00

Have you ever had a project you were super excited about but really really nervous to start? I felt like that with pickling some jalapenos peppers that grew in our garden this year.

Something you should know, I LOVE jalapenos! Always will. I try and eat them with almost everything.

We grew a bunch of them in our garden this year and I wanted to pickle my own but I had no idea where to start. So I didn't, not for awhile anyway... I let them sit on my counter and taunt me everyday until I built up enough courage to just go for it.

And I did.

And they came out great! At least I think so. They still need to sit and pickle awhile, but at least they aren't taunting me anymore.

Mission accomplished. Fears tackled. I'm feeling pretty proud.

Are there are projects you have planned that are intimidating you?

xoxo
Talia Christine

Lovebirds

2011-04-22T12:40:00.000+12:00

This week we have had the privilege of meeting and catching up with some long time dear friends of Phil's. They have spent the last year in the Solomon Islands and I have really been looking forward to meeting them for some time.

Jair and Lauretta are such lovely people. I feel really blessed to be able to have met them and have had such good conversation! I think everyone could use a Jair and Lauretta in their life.

Lauretta surprised us with a gorgeous belated wedding gift-- this pair of little love birds with a little egg to match!! I LOVE THEM! I have them sitting next to me right now just so I can gawk and ooh and ahh over them.

The stitching kills me! I love handmade gifts. They are so marvelous.

Aren't they gorgeous? Seriously, what a treasure.

Thanks again, Jair and Lauretta! We love you guys! A lot.

xoxo
Talia Christine

A Blanket For A Bean

2011-04-20T17:06:00.000+12:00

With the Bean's due date coming up faster than I can get a grip on, I'm running low on time for handspun and handknit projects before the baby is here! So, I've stepped away from the computer (and the dishes, and the laundry, and tidying up in general. Yes. I'm the worst.) to work away at the wheel to spin up some special yarn for the baby's first blanket.

I still have a bit to go before the yarn is done but here is a little peek at what I've been up to.

If it looks insanely soft and squishy, oh that's because it is. So unbelievably soft.

The wool braid is a merino/tencel blend and it is a dream to spin. I normally would process and dye my own but I wanted splash out a bit and buy something really decadent and baby soft.

It was so worth it.

The wool was purchased from The Yarn Chef on Etsy. Do yourself a favor and also check out her hand dyed yarn shop.

xoxo
Talia Christine

New Job (and back to regular life)

2011-04-18T08:59:00.002+12:00

Phil started his new job this morning! I took a bunch of pictures as Phil was getting ready to leave. I'm so proud of that man.

Phil finally got a job with the company he's been wanting to work for for ages.
It's just a hop-skip from our house and Phil can walk to work (and did this morning!).
Congratulations again, Love!

In preparation for the coming week, Phil resigned his job on the kiwifruit orchard and spent this last week at home with me. It was sooooo wonderful spending this week together! I took a break from blogging to soak up every minute with that man. He's the best. He really is.

I have lots of updates and things to do! I've got a whole to-do list that should help with my settling back into regular life.

Have I mentioned that I'm 32 weeks? Only 8 more to go until Beansy's due date! AHH! I'm SO excited, but that means I've only got 8 weeks to go to knit some things for Baby. I've got to get knitting!!!

xoxo
Talia Christine

P.S. - Where does time go? This pregnancy is going by so fast.

Snapshot of my day

2011-04-08T17:11:00.000+12:00

Today was a gorgeous crisp fall day. It really felt like Autumn was truly coming today. I spent most of the day mosying about the house, playing dress up to find an outfit for tonight, and best of all... spinning yarn. Lots and lots of alpaca yarn.

It was a really good day.

Happy Weekend!

xoxo
Talia Christine

Our Weekend in Pictures

2011-04-05T11:37:00.000+12:00

I love the weekends. It means I get to hang out with Phil and we get to do stuff together! Running weekend errands together is one of my very favorite things.

This weekend we made a quick day trip to Auckland to pick up a two-drawer wooden filing cabinet that we bought. We packed a lunch and were on our way! I love picnic lunches. There is just something about them.

♥

Mr. van der Wel
(Best moustache ever)

On the way we stopped at one of the kiwifruit orchards where Phil works. We knew of a walnut tree there and wanted to see if any of this season's walnuts have fallen yet. We only found a few but they are pretty delicious.

I have a serious crush on our little car. I LOVE it!

Kiwifruit growing on the vine

Pretty little shed

Yum.

Soaking up the sun
(While Phil is foraging... OK, I wasn't a good helper...)

On our way to Auckland we stopped in Pokeno for ice cream. This is a huge deal for me. They have SUPER DELICIOUS ice cream for cheap. I love ice cream!!

Two scoops for me!
(Yes, I would have gotten 2 scoops even if I wasn't pregnant. I got Mint-Cookie Smash and Caramel Toffee. Sigh.)

Best ever.

What did you do this weekend?

xoxo
Talia Christine

Homemade Baby Towel

2011-03-29T17:13:00.001+13:00

I love making things myself. So when I was visiting the States for the arrival of my little nephew I picked up some gorgeous organic cotton yarn that I intended on knitting into a bath towel for our future little Bean.

The problem was that I couldn't decide on a pattern to knit the yarn into. I came up with a few patterns myself but I wasn't pleased with any of them... after I finished knitting the towel. Twice.
(Yes, Jean. I ripped it out a second time.)

Knitting the towel was just not working out the way I envisioned. So I dusted off the loom and decided to weave the towel instead...

And I LOVE how it turned out!

It feels good to finally finish a project that was giving me so much grief! I have a few other projects in the works and I can't wait to share them with you, including a cute and easy DIY!

xoxo
Talia Christine