The Smith Family Blog

Alexa's Dedication

2010-05-27T19:07:00.000-07:00

Be strong and courageous. Do not fear, for the LORD your God goes with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you."

Deuteronomy 31:6

This last weekend, we had the joy of celebrating Alexa's Dedication at church with our families. It was a beautiful day and a really wonderful time together. We are SO thankful for everyone who was able to make it to celebrate. Everyone who came was from 'out of town' and some of our family even canceled plans to be there...many many thanks! It was a very special day in Alexa's life that held much meaning, and I bet, one day relatively soon, she will look back at these pictures and smile... :) The verse above is a verse Doug & I chose for Alexa to be read during her dedication. It's our hope that that she will be a strong and courageous woman who chooses not to live in fear, but chooses to trust God and knows and lives in HIS love. And, there is no fear in love...perfect love (God's love) casts out all fear.

Thank you, family!

Love & Hugs,

Doug, Katie & Alexa

At Church before the ceremony with Daddy, Jenna & Liam.

Praying for Alexa during her dedication.

Doug, myself & Alexa with Godmother, Kelly, and the Godfather, Steve.

We put Alexa down for a nap right after the dedication service and when she awoke...instant joy! Here she is enjoying Godmom, Aunt Kelly.

If I could have one photo that would 'describe' our Alexa's personality...well, this one might be a candidate :) Here she is with her cousins, Chloe, Jenna, & Liam

sweet.

Alexa with her two younger cousins on both sides and two great Aunties.

Aunt Allison and Emerson & Aunt Erica and Chloe.

A family photo that Steve took at the end of the day (thank you, Steve!)

"Come here, lil' cousin, let me help you with your hairbow. "

I am love my Godmother SOOOOOO much that I must pull her hair and kiss her!

Grandma & Aunt Valerie enjoying some cupcakes & coffee later in the afternoon.

Godfather, Uncle Steve, Uncle Daniel & Grandpa John

Back from a (Photo) Blogging Hiatus!

2010-05-10T20:18:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone!! I'm back... and ready to do more photo-blogging. :) It's been a busy few months for sure! And, here's some recent photos from Mother's Day that Doug took of Alexa & I and a few extras. Alexa is now 7.5 months! She LOVES to walk (she holds our fingers and will walk for hours a day), still dislikes being on our tummy (we wonder if she will want to crawl!) and has said a couple words "Mom" (pronounced ...'MAAHHMMM') and "Hi" (pronounced as 'Hi-ah'). I honestly can't believe she hasn't said "Dadda" yet....she loves her Daddy! She has lots of personality and is very strong (and strong-willed!). We love her so much, and as Doug said recently "Alexa's default state of being is JOY...that's a good example for all of us."

Enjoy the pics!

Kate & Alexa (blogging buddy)

personality?!

Aaron (Doug's old roommate in Chicago) & Alexa

Papa (Doug's Dad) & Alexa this past Sunday

One of my favorites taken at 7 months :)

PHOTOS! Pine Island, Sanibel, Family, First Food!

2010-02-27T11:23:00.000-08:00

Here's a snapshot of our February :0) Happy Sunday to you! Enjoy :)

Family Photo in Florida this past week

Alexa's first stroller ride in shorts :)

One handsome Daddy and one fashionista beauty baby

Alexa and I in Sanibel

Another Mommy & Daughter photo at the Garlands

Family Dinner on the Smith side

Four generations on my Mom's side...definitely treasure this

Grandma & Alexa

Doug & I in Florida last week...out to eat with Alexa, Gram & Papa (Doug's parents)

Alexa loving Sanibel beach

My sister, Erica's new daughter, Chloe Christina...just 3 days old and smiling.

Papa & Alexa at the house in Florida this past week

Gram & Alexa on the dock :-)

Three days ago, after Alexa's first food (rice cereal)....she was a happy camper!

Alexa is 4 months old!

2010-01-27T11:28:00.000-08:00

Four months ago today, I was at the hospital with Doug ...in labor and anxiously awaiting to meet Alexa. It was truly one of the most exciting and wonderful days of my life-- I loved the entire journey of that day from start to finish :) And...the last four months have been hard and wonderful all at once....and a huge learning process in so many ways. We just can't believe our little girl is four months old!

And today, Alexa had her four month appointment, and she is the picture of health...here's her stats:

Head Size: 95%, Height: 95% (surprise surprise...she has a 5'11 Mom & a 6'5 Dad), Weight: 90% (Here's to the wonder of breastmilk!).

Our pediatrician and, of course, Doug & I are so pleased with her growth and how healthy she is...we are so thankful to God and do not take this for granted.

Things overheard today at her 4 month appointment by the nurse and doctor:

*"She is so aware, wide-eyed and observant." (yep, that's what everyone's said since Day 1!)

* "Hmm...She must look like her Dad and his side of the family..." (LOL--I have also heard this one quite a few times!)

* "She is such a happy easy going baby...look at her...always smiling and entertaining herself !!!" (I think she was just showing off for the doctor, but I'll take it ((wink)).

* "Your buying her the next size up car seat soon (the convertible car seat), right? She's almost too long (tall) for the infant seat!" (We know...and we are...thanks. :)~

Happy Thursday!

Kate

It's been a long time... :)

2010-01-18T07:42:00.000-08:00

It has been a long time since my last post (Alexa is now 3.5 months!!), and as I am typing this while Alexa is in her 'baby gym' talking (AHHH!!!, EEEoooo!, etc.) and playing with (or should I say, 'putting in her mouth') all of her hanging toys. I've said it before, but she is one aware and alert babycakes!

Here's some of what I am learning about our Alexa...

-Loves when people sing to her and often sings along with "Awwhhhww" (Disney songs and Musicals...namely, "Sound of Music" tunes)

-Truly enjoys breastfeeding and is a fantastic eater (which makes me very happy--it's my POLISH side!)

-She and her Daddy are best buds and no one makes her smile as big as he does (yay Daddy!).

-Diaper changes are one of her favorite activities (instant smile when we hit the changing pad and often lots of cooing!)

-Bathtime is another favorite time of hers...She LOVES the water!

-Doesn't cry that often, but hummm/grunts loudly instead (it's slightly amusing...a complaining sound)

-Does not like her car seat for long periods of time (She does cry a lot in this seat...tears and all)

-Loves being held and smiles often at others!

Hope you enjoyed the pics!

Kate & Alexa (blogging buddy)

Any Given Sunday... :)

2009-11-17T13:11:00.000-08:00

Doug and I had a great outing with Alexa on Sunday...lots of walking downtown, brunch and even the mall. She was a trooper, loved seeing all the people and sites and also slept quite a bit. Isn't she a little sleeping beauty (biased Mom talking--hehe)?

A tired babycakes after a long day :)

Alexa & I on State Street for a casual stroll (obviously Doug snapped this photo while we were walking).

Doug holding Alexa as she takes in the sounds and sites of our favorite casual restaurant the "Old Fashioned"

One bundled baby girl :)

Hope you are having a great week!

Kate & Alexa (my blogging buddy)

A few recent photos!

2009-11-13T10:45:00.000-08:00

What a busy wild time!
Alexa is sitting on my lap with me as I post this...She is staring at the photos, so the 'photo descriptions' are from her. :)
Enjoy!

Daddy dressed me this morning...can you tell?! :) Hehe

BUT...he loves me and I'm Daddy's Girl , so I don't mind :)

This is my Great Aunt Frud & Uncle Fred who came in all the way from Charlotte, NC. They brought me so many sweet gifts including my new favorite GUND Teddy Bear, "Goldie" (Aunt Frud gave my Daddy one when he was a baby too!)

This is my sweet Great-Grandma Lydia and me (the first time she held me). Mom startled me with the flash on her camera. My Mom takes so many pictures of me, you'd think I'm a celebrity.

Mom, Dad & I partying :)

One of my Mom's Best Friend's, Erin, Paul and her Mom &Dad. ERin flew in from Virginia to hang out.

Photos of Alexa at 2.5 weeks old!

2009-10-20T09:36:00.000-07:00

I am typing with one hand these days...holding Alexa!

Here's a couple updated photos of Alexa at 2.5 weeks :) She is such an ALERT baby girl and loves to always be on the move with her Mom and Dad! Alexa has the cutest expressions and we are just having a lot of fun learning all about her. And like most new parents, Doug and I are also learning how to adjust to a new sleeping routine (or lack of one--haha).

HUGS,

Kate & Alexa

Introducing Alexa Katherine Smith

2009-10-02T19:34:00.000-07:00

Introducing...Alexa Katherine Smith!

09.28.09

Kate and I are overjoyed to announce the birth of Alexa Katherine to the world. She's gorgeous weighing in at 7 lbs 12 oz and 21 inches long.

39 Weeks--Baby Update!

2009-09-21T09:11:00.001-07:00

A picture that Doug took of me in front of our fireplace after dinner with friends on Friday night. I was EXHAUSTED (not my best picture), but you can see how big I am/my belly is!

Well, we are 39 weeks and one day! And, according to my doctor, it looks like Baby Girl Smith will most likely be arriving rather fashionably late. Although her official due date was 09/27/09, it appears that she will have an October birthday instead. We are SOOO excited to meet her, so waiting a FEW more weeks feels like forever right now, but we are very happy to learn that she is in great position for birth and that at 38 weeks she was already estimated to be 7lbs. My Mom tells me that I, myself, arrived two weeks late and was well over 9 lbs. SO, she just might be following in my footsteps in this way?! We will see... :)

~Kate

Last Couple of Weeks in Pictures...

2009-09-18T09:58:00.001-07:00

Celebrating Mom's birthday on September 7, Labor Day, and her actual birthday!

Mom, "Grandma" (one of my nieces only thinks she can ONLY be "Grandma"...not "Mom"--LOL) getting help from her grandkids with her candles.

Nephew, Liam (Valerie & Steve's son), and Niece, Alyse (Derek & Michelle's daughter) awaiting birthday cake #2 for Alyse.

BROTHERS: Blake & Doug...grilling out in our backyard after the Farmer's Market last Saturday. It was a beautiful day :)

Blake & Doug

Remember when I said I was going a garden this year? Well, here are just a few of the tomatoes that came from that (Literally...just a few!)

Yummy! A tasty way to eat local and go green :)

Happy 4th Wedding Anniversary! :)

2009-09-03T12:09:00.001-07:00

Happy 4th Wedding Anniversary to my best friend and husband, Doug!

As I said on my Facebook post this afternoon...

"4 wonderful years of marriage to a great man and a baby girl on the way this month. Happy Anniversary to a spectacular husband and soon (VERY SOON) to be Daddy! I love you, Doug!"

XOXO,
Kate
(fbc)

A Favorite Quote...

2009-08-26T08:51:00.001-07:00

"Life breaks all of us, but

some become strong in the

broken places."

-Ernest Hemingway-

Adios Baby Showers! ;-)

2009-08-25T09:47:00.000-07:00

Well...Baby Shower season sadly came to an end this past weekend, as my two sisters, Valerie & Erica, and my Mom threw a lovely baby shower for Baby Smith and I at my sister's home in Naperville, IL. :-) They did a wonderful job and were so generous with Doug & I. It was great to see so many of my relatives...aunties, cousins, etc. and to just enjoy the day. Thank you so much Valerie, Erica & Mom!!! :) :) Apparently, I was having such a good time that I didn't take too many pictures, but here are a few below.

I am now nearly 36 weeks along with Baby Girl Smith (time sure does fly!) and motherhood/fatherhood and all the life changes that come with them are rapidly approaching. Doug and I often talk about how much our lives are going to change in the moment when she is born (understatement of the day--LOL!), but we are just SOOOO very excited to meet her and begin to discover who she is. :) We can't wait to see and meet you Baby Girl!

Our niece, Jenna

My Cousin Isabella & Auntie Joy

Opening presents :) I can't quite understand why 'jazz hands' are my default--LOL

Liam & my sister, Valerie, obviously having a good time :)

New Maternity Photos!

2009-08-19T05:14:00.000-07:00

Baby Smith is definitely coming soon!

Doug's sister, Kelly, took these couple maternity shots of Doug and I almost two weeks ago after my last shower. The photos were taken when Baby Smith & I were at 33 weeks (now we are at about 35 weeks! Thank you Kelly--you did a fantastic job! We love these and will treasure them always.

P.S. Special Fun Fact: these photos were taken at the location in Barrington, IL where we were married almost 4 years ago. :)

PICTURES GALORE!

2009-08-11T03:50:00.000-07:00

Pictures from the weekend!

Baby Shower #3 for Baby Girl Smith given by Doug's side of the family in the North Suburbs of Chicago (Thank you, Allison for being such a fabulous party hostess!! Ahh-mazing details..loved everything!) and our nephew, Liam's, 2nd Birthday party in Naperville, IL. It was a train themed party that was too cute!

I have lots of updates to share on this blog eventually here. For today though... just pictures. :) We also took maternity photos this weekend (Doug's sister, Kelly, took them of Doug & I), and I will post them in a couple of days after I clean them up a bit if your interested:) Baby Smith is growing!

Ultra-Creative Baby Shower Invitation :)

Cute, eh?

Gorgeous table details at the shower

Love this...a "Take Out Candy Bar"

Doug's sister and my sister-in-law, Kelly, Doug's Aunt Marcy (Frud), myself at 33 weeks, my sister-in-law, Allison (the hostess!), my future sis-in-law, Laura, my Mother-in-law, Kathy, and Doug's cousin, Katy (Frud's daughter). Did you catch all that? (wink wink)

My sister Valerie and her son, the cutest birthday boy ever, Liam!

Liam enjoying his Train themed birthday party !

My cousin, Isabella, and our niece, Jenna playing on the trains and looking adorable in those train hats :)

ONU Reunion/Baby Shower #2 :) :)

2009-08-02T21:12:00.000-07:00

"Faithful friends are gifts from Heaven. Whoever finds one has found a treasure."

Baby Smith is one blessed girl! We enjoyed another amazing baby shower this weekend hosted by my best friend, Erin, and her Mom :) Every detail was amazing --just take a look at those deserts!!! The shower included so many of my favorite people in the world--my very best friends--all together at once, which was amazing. I had the BEST time, but I have to admit I was very sad for the day to be over and to see everyone go after the day had ended (definitely shed on few tears on the car ride home). All of us live in different states now (two of my best friends flew in for the shower) or different cities, and it is hard to get together these days. I miss all my dear friends everyday (tears again), and I love you all enormously. Thank you SO much for celebrating Baby Girl Smith with Doug & I. :)

MUCH Love,
Doug, Katie (Kate, Wave), & Baby Smith (Baby Wave)

P.S. Here are a ton of pictures in no particular order from the shower this weekend--ENJOY!

It's Baby Shower Time!

2009-07-30T04:52:00.000-07:00

This last weekend I had a wonderful time at my first baby shower hosted and attended by my Madison friends (Special thanks to Kelly, Tracy & K.C. for hosting!). It was a cute & sweet tea party themed shower--LOVED it :) Here are a few photos from Baby Shower #1. Thanks again, ladies! Baby Girl Smith & I are grateful!

Love,
Kate

Invite to Baby Shower #1

Gorgeous diaper cake! I just ADORED how they coordinated the colors with our nursery!

Cinsy, K.C. & Marisa

Meredith, Marisa, Tracy & Maria

Baby Shower games! Marisa (who is due just over a week before me) measuring my belly :)

Enjoying our 'tea party' lunch--yummy.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, DOUG!!!

2009-07-22T21:33:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to my wonderful husband, Doug!

Doug's actual birthday was Monday, July 20, and we finally had a chance to celebrate alone tonight with dinner at 'Samba,' a local Brazilian Steakhouse (definitely Doug's kind of meal!). :) Between myself and my side of the family, Doug has had 4 birthday cakes so far (yummy) which he was always surprised by, and he will have one more when we celebrate with Doug's side of the family in a couple of weeks. Hey, it's fun to make birthdays last a while :)

We also had a very busy full weekend in Decatur visiting my 92 year old Grandma and Dad. It was a lot of fun!

Of course...here are some pictures from the weekend and from some of the celebrations for Doug! :)

Happy Birthday, Babe!!

Birthday Cake that my Mom made him on Friday night to start the festivities :-)

Birthday celebration at my Grandma's House in the Chicago suburbs after Doug's class on Saturday.

Having breakfast with my 92 year old Grandma, Marguerite, and I in Decatur.
We celebrated over pancakes here!

A cake that I made Doug, which did not turn out as planned. Apparently, there was a large earthquake within the cake and it spilt in half! LOL.

Just for FUN

2009-07-15T11:16:00.000-07:00

I love fun, different and inspirational cards, and I thought these two below were too cute not to share with you. I found them at an eclectic hip gift shop called "Moxie." Here's the link if you want to check it out! :) ENJOY!

Pictures! 4th of July & Baby Smith's Crib Bedding :)

2009-07-08T10:16:00.000-07:00

Happy Belated 4th of July to you!!

My sister Valerie, brother-in-law Steve, and our nephew & Godson Liam stayed with us all 4th of July weekend--it was a great visit and a lot of fun! :) We are really grateful for family that we can just 'hang out with' and enjoy. :) Thanks again for coming, Val, Steve & Liam! Here are some of my favorite pictures from the weekend are below--ENJOY! :)

How cute is this guy??!! Our nephew, Liam :)

He's getting BIG--Almost 2 years old!

Steve, Liam & Valerie--The Crawfis Family--outside the State Cap :)

Doug & Steve having fun & playing 'Corn Holes' while attending to the Bar-B-Que

I have been busy doing the last couple weeks doing a whole lot of things to prepare for Baby Girl Smith--preparing the nursery, hospital classes, finding a pediatrician....you name it! Today I FINALLY painted her room (with Doug's help, of course!). I think I spent WAY too much time picking out the perfect color pink (which is nearly identical to the paint in the photo below)to go with the baby's bedding and a color that would best FLOW with the neutral colors of our house. I'll take a picture of the room when it is finished, but below is also a picture of the bedding we chose in a staged room. Yep, I am doing Light Pink with Black & White accents. I think it is pretty & chic--I hope Baby Smith likes it (wink) ;-)

Hope you had a great weekend & are enjoying your week!
HUGS,
Kate :)

Birthday LOVE!

2009-06-29T20:49:00.000-07:00

There was a lot of Birthday LOVE going around this past week :) Thank you SO MUCH to Doug (who surprised me with multiple celebrations), the Madison wives (my dear friends), my family, Doug's family and SO many of my close friends and facebook buddies for all of the calls, cards, messages, birthday celebrations and birthday LOVE this past week. I literally had 6 birthday cakes in 5 days-yummy :) It was unnecessary yet SO very appreciated. :) Thank you!

I didn't carry around my camera like I usually do this week, but I did bring it to the 'celebration night' we enjoyed at Doug's parents' house on Saturday night. There was a lot to celebrate.... Doug's Dad turned the BIG 60 earlier this month (I hear 60 is the new 40 ;-) ), Blake landed a great job, Father's Day, and they sang to me for my birthday as well. So, below are just a few photos that Doug took from Saturday night. Thanks again to my in-laws, David & Kathy, for your thoughtfulness! It was a lovely night. :)

Happy Monday!

Doug, Kate & Baby

Doug's Dad opening up birthday and Father's Day gifts :)

Doug's Mom & Dad, David & Kathy, singing to me with a sweet birthday cake.

The lovely ENGAGED couple, Laura & Blake :)

Turks & Caicos BABYMOON Maternity Photos

2009-06-22T20:55:00.000-07:00

Thanks to many of you for your positive emails and messages about our "Taste of Turks & Caicos" pictures on our last blog post. It was a lot of fun to read your reactions together while on vacation :) --thanks again! Doug and I truly enjoyed every moment of our time there--it was a beautiful and relaxing vacation in many ways. The ocean is definitely a place where we more easily find 'peace of mind' and perspective. For both of us, this vacation held a lot of meaning--it was a 'last hurrah' of sorts before our lives change quite a bit with Baby Smith's approaching arrival (hello diapers & sippy cups!-lol) :). We took daily walks along the white sandy beach and daily swims in the clear ocean, snorkeled, scuba dived (just Doug on this one...pregnant women obviously aren't allowed), and we just did a whole lot of nothing--which was perfect! Overall, it was a time filled with wonderful memories and conversations that I am sure we will forever treasure. Yay for BABYMOONS!

With the spectacular scenery of the ocean, Doug and I thought it was a great place to take some maternity photos. I think Doug did a fantastic job of capturing both 'the belly' and the ocean. He took these photos literally in minutes as we did our daily morning walk and one night on our way to dinner. He is a man of many talents--thanks again, hubby!

Here are a bunch of the maternity photos that Doug took. I am 26 weeks along here (3rd Trimester--Time flies!!)

Happy Summer!
Doug, Kate & Baby Girl Smith

'A Taste' of Turks & Caicos--Picture Update!

2009-06-17T20:48:00.000-07:00

Pictures for now....words to come :) Hope you are having a fantastic week!

Doug, Kate & Baby Smith :)

Grace Bay Beach

I'm Behind! Weekend Update :)

2009-06-09T20:24:00.000-07:00

We had a really full couple of weeks and weekends, and I have been playing 'catch up' with a lot of things the last couple of days. Hence, I haven't blogged for a while or responded much to email. Thank you for your patience with me :) This weekend was a great one! To start off the weekend, my dear friend Bethany drove from Chicago on Thursday night after her work (she is a counselor) and stayed at our house for the night. On Friday morning, we walked around downtown Madison, went out to brunch and just did a lot of catching up. Bethany and her husband, Jer, were in our old church small group in Chicago, and the two of us used to meet almost every single Tuesday night for dinner and drinks in the city just catching up on our week and talking about everything that was going on in our lives. More specifically, we'd typically meet at Zapatistas in the South Loop for some delicious Mexican food (and the best guacamole a girl can ask for) and a mojito after our workday. I really treasure and miss those dinners, so it was a real treat to hang out with her for a full day. Thanks again for driving to Madison and visiting, Bethany!

Bethany relaxing on Friday after on our backyard porch. :)

On Friday night, we left for Naperville, IL to stay with my sister, Valerie, brother-in-law, Steve and nephew, Liam. While Doug had finals and presentations literally ALL day on Saturday, my sister and I got an early start to register at Babies 'R' Us for my baby showers that are rapidly approaching here in a month or two. Honestly, even with a lot of research, I think I would have been overwhelmed and stressed out without Valerie there--there is no shortage of baby products and reviews to keep your head spinning (that's for sure)! And, the day I registered was the actual day of Valerie's 33rd birthday! So, we did do another little celebration afterward at a restaurant nearby--just the two of us :) Isn't she great for helping me on her birthday (I sure think so!). Thank you SO SO much again, Valerie! Baby Girl Smith thanks you too! ;-)

Valerie at Babies 'R' Us on Saturday on her birthday! Happy Birthday, Valerie!

And, on Saturday night, I met with my close friend, Daniela, for a casual dinner downtown. We had a wonderful time catching up. Daniela and I met over 6 years ago when we were both working at the Willow Creek Association, and I was still in college. Daniela is actually from Germany and is a big time Marketing Brand Manager now in Chicago--she is really a savvy business woman! She is also one of the kindest and most honest people I know--she's truly a wonderful friend. It has been really great to watch each other grow over the years and is always awesome when we are able to catch up and spend time together again. And, to further prove it is a small world, Daniela is randomly in a small group at Willow Creek Church (and friends with!) an old friend of mine from Olivet Nazarene University (who also used to live across the hall from me!), Lisa. :) I'll say it again--it's a small world!!! Daniela, thank you so much for everything and your sweet birthday gift! You, me and Taylor (lol) will have to take another road trip again soon! :)

Daniela & I out for a casual dinner downtown Chi-town :)

After finals, Doug went out to dinner with a few member of his family. And, we did not get home together until about 1:30 a.m. on Sunday. Needless to say, we did a lot much needed resting on Sunday. :) Being pregnant, my energy level is a bit different than it used to me! Doug has one more final this week and then a week break--Woohoo! :)

Hope you are enjoying your week! Thanks for reading this!
Kate

Weekend!

2009-06-01T11:25:00.000-07:00

It is such a joy for us to have house guests for the weekend--especially close family and friends. Particularly when you live out of state from most of your family and dear friends, it is a wonderful feeling to have those visit who represent a slice of your 'old home' to you. Always a laid-back fun time. My younger sister, Erica, and her family visited this last weekend. We had a great time--thank you again Ortiz family! Doug joined us in the fun on Saturday night when he returned from Chicago, and we all headed to downtown Madison on Sunday morning after brunch to enjoy this AMAZING weather we are having.

Doug and I also went to go see PIXAR's "UP" after church and dinner out last night. What a spectacular movie! Doug is a huge fan of PIXAR and has read most books on the history of the company and its founders, and their latest creation did not disappoint. It is a beautiful story is every way. If you can, take someone of any age with you and go see it! :) We have an exceptionally full busy week this week (especially Doug), so it was great for us to relax yesterday together. Sundays are truly our 'day of rest.'

Happy Monday! And, a special Happy Birthday to FRUD! Hugs & Love your way today!

Doug, Katie & Baby Girl

My niece, Jenna, this weekend posing for pictures right next to our home.

Erica's birthday cake! Her birthday was May 26, so we did a little celebrating!

Blowing out her 'trick' candles :) hehe

Doug taking Jenna to feed the ducks at the lake in downtown Madison

Feeding the 'duckies'

Yes, that is me and our favorite pet in the world, Bitty the Cat. Doug was/still is laughing at me for this--LOL. :) Yes, I bought her a leash because she LOVES sitting in the grass and eating it. She'll do just about anything to get outside. When she actually is outside, she just sits in the cool summer breeze and eats...gotta love Bitty the Cat!

Thoughts on Solitude

2009-05-28T10:57:00.000-07:00

"The world today does not understand the need to be alone. How inexplicable it seems. Anything else will be accepted as a better excuse. If one sets aside time for a business appointment, a trip to the hairdresser, a social engagement, or a shopping expedition, that time is accepted as inviolable. But if one says: 'I cannot come because that is my hour(s) to be alone,' one is considered rude, egotistical or strange. What a commentary on our civilization, when being alone is considered suspect, when one has to apologize for it, make excuses, hide the fact that one practices it--like a secret vice!

Actually, these are among the most important times in one's life--when one is alone. Certain springs are tapped only when we are alone. The artist knows he must be alone to create, the writer to work out his /her thoughts; the musician, to compose, the saint, to pray. We need solitude in order find again the true essence of ourselves."

-Anne Morrow Lindbergh

Gift From the Sea (1955)

** Special thanks to Angie, designer/owner of Angelica Grace Designs, for recommending this book to her blog readers (including me!). I LOVED every page of it and have been recommending it to others endlessly!

Memorial Day Weekend in PICTURES :)

2009-05-25T16:41:00.000-07:00

Family party day on Saturday at my Mom's...dinner with Blake & Laura on Saturday night in downtown Chicago...World's Largest Bratfest in Madison...BBQ with friends...

ALL = a WONDERFUL Memorial Day Weekend.

Thank you so much for everyone who was a part of it!

Hugs!

Kate

My cousin, Isabella, looking adorable and being a photographer. We were 'taking pictures' of one another here. She is a pro! :-)

Our nieces, Alyse Nicole & Jenna Daniela enjoying a snack on Grandma's Step.

"Little Girls Toes"-- Isabella, Jenna & Alyse 'posing'

Sandbox time! Liam, Isabella, Jenna & Alyse

Our brother-in-law, Steve, and our nephew (Steve's son), Liam.

Out to eat on Saturday night in downtown Chicago with Blake & Laura--celebrating their engagement and Blake's graduation. Congrats again guys!

Kelly & Spain

2009-05-22T09:17:00.001-07:00

Kelly

"A ship in a port is safe, but that is not what ships are built for."

- Benazir Bhutto

This Wednesday night, Doug and I traveled to Chicago for a dinner to celebrate Doug's sister, Kelly, who is headed to Spain for a few months to live with a family, study Spanish, learn, grow, and simply have some fun memorable times. We are so happy and excited for her--it will no doubt be an experience of a lifetime. Doug and I will be following her journey with her brand new blogspot, www.kellydawes.blogspot.com. Kelly is a fantastic writer, a talented photographer, and quite the experienced traveler (she has been to most of our world's continents multiple times). So, we are--no doubt--looking forward to reading her posts, seeing her photos and watching how she is processing this experience. Those who know me well, know how much my 'study abroad' experience in Latin America (Costa Rica, Guatemala, Cuba, Nicaragua and Panama) changed me and gave me a very different new perspective on many aspects of the the world (from government and religion to love and poverty). Thus, I am always thrilled to watch and talk to those who have experienced something similar. I have often said that you can travel all over the world for short periods of time and virtually be the same (I have been to about 20 countries), but when you actually 'LIVE' in a very different place for a while with a very different family and surroundings...THAT is what changes you. And change, however new and uncomfortable, is often a good and beautiful thing. Here's to you, Kelly, and your adventurous spirit!

Much Love,

Doug, Katie y Baby Girl

Thoughtful Thursday

2009-05-14T14:07:00.000-07:00

"I have been through life and suffered a great deal, but I have had happy moments, as well. Every moment one lives is different from the other. The good, the bad, hardship, the joy, the tragedy, love and happiness are all interwoven into one single, indescribable whole that is called life. You cannot separate the good and the bad, and perhaps there is no need to do so."

-Jacqueline Kennedy

CONGRATS BLAKE & LAURA!!!!

2009-05-10T18:14:00.000-07:00

Woohoo!!! Warm CONGRATULATIONS to Doug's brother, Blake, and our soon-to-be sister-in-law, Laura, who became ENGAGED this weekend! It happened on a beach...at sunset...in Michigan, and we cannot wait to see pictures and hear about all the details! We are SO happy for both of them, and we are so excited to be gaining such a wonderful sweet sister-in-law. Laura is truly fantastic in every way.

All our love to you both!

Doug, Kate, & Baby Girl Smith

Special Thanks to a Special Mom :)

2009-05-07T17:42:00.000-07:00

Here are just a few of the ways I am thankful for my special Mother on Mother’s Day J

I think I have a special Mom…the older I become the more I realize this truth. My Mom is someone that never puts any pressure on myself or Doug to do or be anything we are not. She accepts and respects us as we are and as we change and grow. Thank you for being so accepting and loving, Mom!

Any time Doug and I have needed help with anything, my Mom is there offering to help (helping us move, helping us with house projects, etc.). She has NEVER had an attitude or made us feel like we ‘owe’ her. She is the kind of person and Mom that not just in her words, but through her actions genuinely loves you and put other’s first. Thank you for being there to help, Mom!

Although we think of her this day, we don’t often see my Mom on the actual Mother’s Day holiday. My Mom (knowing our schedules and especially now that we are out of town) almost every year tells me/us that for her gift, she would like for Doug and I to stay home ‘take care of yourself, have fun and relax—that would make me most happy” (of course we still give her a gift!). She’s amazing---even on Mother’s Day she puts everyone else first and is interested in making them feel loved and special. Mom, Thank you for being an example of selflessness…it is humbling and beautiful and we love you even more because of it!

My Mom works full time and commutes 3 hours a day on trains and buses, but she definitely still makes time and finds the energy to put everyone she loves in her life first (like her grandchildren). My sister told recently me that she was in a bind and needed a babysitter for the same evening and called my Mom for help at work. My Mom responded with “I set aside a certain amount of vacations days for just this situation. I’ll leave early and be there. ” Thank you for being such a great Grandma, Mom!

Every time my Mom visits, Doug says something along the lines of “When is your Mom coming back? I love it when she visits…she is so peaceful and relaxing to hang with and talk to.” I always think that is sweet, but sometimes it hits me how unusual that is to hear a son-in-law WANT their Mother-in-law around. In fact, I don’t know many people who can say that about their in-laws…period. I think this alone speaks VOLUMES about my Mom. She humbly loves people….in her actions more than words. Thank you for being such a great Mother-in-law to Doug!

Mom, thank you for everything…for always helping and for being an example to both Doug and I of someone who loves through their actions and makes sacrifices with JOY. I am so grateful that you are in our lives and that you will be in our daugher’s life as well.

You are a wonderful, Mom!

MUCH Love! Happy Mama’s Day!
Doug, Katie & Baby Girl Smith

Baby Smith is a.....

2009-05-05T15:39:00.000-07:00

We are seeing PINK !!!!!!!

Thanks for your excitement and love!

Hugs!

Doug, Kate & Baby GIRL Smith :-)

Baby Bump Watch :) AND.....

2009-05-04T09:02:00.000-07:00

TODAY is 'the' day Doug and I find out the gender of Baby Smith! :) We are SO excited for our appointment this afternoon! We have decided that we are going to have them put the gender results in an envelope and open it over dinner tonight... just the two of us (well, three of us counting Baby-lol) :) Before we announce the gender on our blog here, we are going to call all the people we promised (who asked) we would call first, and after we reach all of them, we will eventually announce it here. We have a lot of people to call! :) I know my parents and many members of our family and friends are waiting with baited breath today (my Mom has already emailed me twice this morning reminding me to 'please call'--lol) and so are we :-). We sincerely love and appreciate the excitement--thank you!!!

We also had a wonderful weekend in Chicago on Saturday and with my dear friend, Brooke, who stayed on Saturday night and visited all of yesterday. :) And on Friday night, Doug took some updated pictures of the 'Baby Bump' (I am almost at 20 weeks). I feel like JUST this last week we are really starting to see a bump and I'm starting to look a little more pregnant. I can definitely feel my ligaments and muscles stretching as the baby is doubling in size the next few weeks....WOW! Anyway, I tried to wear a similar outfit that I did during the first pictures we posted to highlight the difference from a month ago. ENJOY! ~ Kate <3

GOOP!

2009-04-29T14:00:00.000-07:00

I love GOOP! What is it? It is simply Gwyneth Paltrow's blog in which I am subscribed. Those who know me well know that I am a Gwyneth fan (Funny enough, Baby Smith's due date falls on her birthday-Ha!). It is a joke among my close friends that I like to call her 'G-Pal' and think that one day I might meet up with her in London for a glass of wine, conversation and a shopping trip while wearing Stella McCartney (please go ahead and laugh with me-LOL). Obviously, I am kidding. However, every two weeks, I do receive fashion tips, recipes, information about a new place to travel and explore, or thoughts on life through her lovely blog. Thus, each blog falls into a category of either GO, GET, BE, DO, MAKE, or SEE.

So, I thought I would share this recent particular post with you ,via Gwyneth (G-Pal). In all honesty, it is a subject that I often think about and believe we all have struggled with--the weight of our words, thoughts and negativity about others. Even when you try to take the 'high road,' sometimes our anger and hurt comes through. Here's the intro from Gwyneth and the link to her blog to read on.....she has summoned the help of some bright people for their opinions. If nothing else, you may find this interesting. Here we go...

"Back in the day, I had a “frenemy” who, as it turned out, was pretty hell-bent on taking me down. This person really did what they could to hurt me. I was deeply upset, I was angry, I was all of those things you feel when you find out that someone you thought you liked was venomous and dangerous. I restrained myself from fighting back. I tried to take the high road. But one day I heard that something unfortunate and humiliating had happened to this person. And my reaction was deep relief and…happiness. There went the high road. So, why does it feel so good to hear something bad about someone you don’t like? Or someone you DO like? Or someone you don’t KNOW? I once asked the editor of a tabloid newspaper why all of the stories about a famous British couple had a negative bent. He said that when the headline was positive, the paper didn’t sell. Why is that? What’s wrong with us? I asked the sages to shed a little light.

Here’s to washing our mouths out with soap..."

Love,

To continue reading on her blog, GOOP, click HERE

Your thoughts?!!

Hope you are enjoying your week!

Kate

Another way to "Go Green"--Gardening!

2009-04-28T15:59:00.000-07:00

Beautiful, eh?? Well, these are not my veggies.....yet :)

This year I am using our garden for more than herbs (although I love those too!) and attempting to grow tomatoes, strawberries, etc. I am not exactly a person you may imagine gardening, but this is one of the many ways we are becoming more green and local with what we eat and how we live (hey, what can be more 'local' than your backyard garden? :) )

One of my closest friends heard I was gardening and said something along the lines of "I can only see you gardening with a enormous glamorous brimmed hat and cute wedge shoes on." LOL. She is at least right about the hat (I love large brimmed hats in white and black). :) Anyway, if all goes well, I'll take some pictures later on in the summer and share them with you.

Any other gardeners out there who can give me a few pointers?? Let me know :)

Here's to gardening!

Kate & Babe

Birthday Party for the Kiddos!

2009-04-26T22:38:00.000-07:00

This weekend my sister Erica and her husband, Daniel, threw a birthday party at her home for their daughter (our niece), Jenna, who just turned 3 years old (although she kept telling me she was 5--lol!) and our nephew, Tryistan, who is now a whopping 9 years old! I was there all day hanging out with family and Doug joined us for a few minutes at the end of the party after his Northwestern classes ended which was sooo nice (poor guy--he misses all the parties on Saturdays & the yummy cake!!). Special thanks to my sister, Erica, who purposely had the party start later in the afternoon so that Doug could join us at least for a little bit! :) Here are just a few of my favorite pictures...ENJOY!

Hugs,

Kate & Baby

Our nieces, Jenna & Alyse looking lovely:)

Our nephew, Liam, chowing down on some Strawberries

My Dad with Jenna & Alyse. :)

This picture cracks me up! The girls were giving me 'half-smiles', so I told them that whomever smiled the BIGGEST would get the most birthday cake. Apparently, Alyse took me very seriously--HA!! LOL!

Tryistan blowing out his "9" birthday candle! Happy Birthday, Tryistan!

The Ladies :)

2009-04-22T17:50:00.000-07:00

Here's a picture of ALL of us (we were actually all present yesterday night) at our monthly Book Club (a.k.a. Social Club--LOL) at Kelly's home (we meet at a different home each month). These ladies have really become community in my life here in Madison...weekly dinners, random get-togethers, book club, etc. and I am grateful for you all. Thank you!

ROCKSTAR Brandson Grissom

2009-04-20T22:07:00.000-07:00

A good friend of ours, Brandon Grissom, recently wrote a blog about WOLVERINE and Doug that I just saw tonight. Thanks, Brandon! Doug loves it. Brandon is a great musician and is also on staff at Willow Creek Community Church, where Doug and I attended while in the Chicago area. Check out his blog, his music and this post :)

Brandon Grissom

Special Thanks!

2009-04-20T20:52:00.000-07:00

A HUGE thank you and lots of love to my Mom & Step-Dad, John (a.k.a. Landscaper Extraordinaire! He has a serious green thumb!), who visited and stayed with us this weekend and spent the ENTIRE Saturday landscaping our front and backyard, which now looks immaculate and gorgeous -just in time for spring/summer. They love and adore Doug and know he is a man with a CRAZY schedule right now and truly enjoy helping us (including the tired pregnant daughter-LOL) with house stuff, and we are so appreciative. My Mom and John have said that they "want Doug to come home on Saturday (after class) and know that there is one less thing on his plate, so he can relax." Seriously, aren't they amazing? We have ALWAYS known and felt so much support from them in innumerable ways. And, we simply LOVE and enjoy spending time with both of them (always lots of laughs). Thank you both again!! We had a fantastic time this weekend and have received many compliments from the neighbors, John! :)

Love,
Doug, Katie & Baby Smith

Mom, Doug, & John alongside a very small part of our frontyard where baby lilac bushes promise to grow tall and wide. :)

Thoughtful Thursday-Wisdom from Margaret Thatcher...

2009-04-15T19:48:00.000-07:00

"Being powerful is like being a lady. If you have to tell people you are, you aren't. "

~Margaret Thatcher

Amen.

Happy Almost Thursday!

Kate

Easter Weekend Pictures!

2009-04-12T21:37:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter! We had a great weekend with family celebrating the holiday. Hope you did too!

HE IS NOT HERE. HE IS RISEN!.

Here are a few pictures from the weekend!

ENJOY!

~Kate

My Mom (Grandma) and her twin Granddaughter, Alyse, enjoying the pool on Good Friday :)

Grandma & Grandpa John with Alyse & Tryistan...having fun!

My niece, Jenna, at our Easter celebration at my Dad & Julie's Chicago home yesterday (Easter Sunday).

My brother-in-law, Steve, and nephew, Liam, posing for a picture at the party Easter Sunday. Such a cute "Daddy & Son" picture. :)

My Dad (Grandpa) & Jenna celebrating his 59th birthday!!! Happy Birthday!

After a While...

2009-04-08T22:16:00.000-07:00

When I was much younger (early teen years), I had this poem framed on my wall (typed and framed it myself). I loved it then, and I still love it now. There are a lot of truths and lessons in these words....things to remember is the good times and bad and in our young years and older years.

Afterall, in all of our lives,

" 'Once upon a time...' is happening right now." :)

Hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

~Kate

After A While

Veronica A. Shoffstall

After a while you learn

the subtle difference between

holding a hand and chaining a soul

and you learn

that love doesn't mean leaning

and company doesn't always mean security.

And you begin to learn

that kisses aren't contracts

and presents aren't promises

and you begin to accept your defeats

with your head up and your eyes ahead

with the grace of woman, not the grief of a child

and you learn

to build all your roads on today

because tomorrow's ground is

too uncertain for plans

and futures have a way of falling down

in mid-flight.

After a while you learn

that even sunshine burns

if you get too much

so you plant your own garden

and decorate your own soul

instead of waiting for someone

to bring you flowers.

And you learn that you really can endure

you really are strong

you really do have worth

and you learn

with every goodbye, you learn...

WOLVERINE VIDEO!

2009-04-07T22:27:00.000-07:00

GO WOLVERINE!

The game releases very soon--this May!!!- and here is just one of the videos of Doug and others talking about it onGameTrailers.com (a site which is visited by millions) :) The game looks AWESOME!
Thanks for sharing with us. Enjoy!
~Kate

Coming Soon!

2009-04-03T21:03:00.000-07:00

Thought we would share this picture with you tonight! :) Doug and I are staying at my Mom & John's for the night and this was a new addition to their 'Mantle of Pictures', which displays all of their grandchildren. Doug and I both laughed hysterically when we walked in...LOL. Thanks Mom & John!

It is amazing to think that in just months....this picture frame will be filled with a photo of our little one--we can't wait! :) And, we are grateful for the love, support and fabulous humor of Grandparents :)

Happy Friday!

Doug & Kate

FLY :)

2009-04-01T15:43:00.000-07:00

I saw this on ETSY today designed by "The Love Shop" and it made me SMILE . Hope it does the same for you!

It's an 8 x 10 ...that, I think, would look even more delightful framed ;0) .

Hope you are enjoying your week!

~Kate

First Belly Picture & Funny Bitty Picture! :)

2009-03-29T20:24:00.000-07:00

Okay, this is me at just over 3 months!! Woohoo! I know it doesn't look like much, but I was pretty excited to see my BUMP that wasn't there weeks ago :) Please note that we took this picture literally 10 minutes after I got up on a Saturday and before running errands (not looking my best)--LOL. I can't wait to take some professional BELLY photos (in a few months) and share them with you! :)

And, this picture to Doug and I is hysterical---we just HAD to share. We love our cat...she is the coolest --SO laid-back and trusting. Doug was like..."I have never seen a cat with just lays 'like this' waiting for you to pet her belly." Plus, don't you just LOVE that she looks like she is holding our "Apple TV Remote" ....

Such a HAMM, our cat, Bitty (A.K.A. Miss America).

:0)~

Hope you enjoy the pictures and your week!!!

HUGS,

Katie :)

Check out Doug :)

2009-03-27T09:20:00.000-07:00

Hey Fam & Friends!

Check out Doug on the uncaged website :)

WOLVERINE!!!

What a STUD he is! :) :)
Kate

(Note: I am talking about both Hugh Jackman & Doug--LOL)

Thoughtful Thursday

2009-03-26T10:12:00.001-07:00

"I could choose to sink or swim."
-Elizabeth Gilbert (Eat, Pray, Love)

'Baby Smith' Pictures!!

2009-03-20T13:22:00.000-07:00

Happy Friday!

Doug and I had a wonderful appointment this morning--we were able to see Baby Smith "LIVE" on screen for about 30 minutes....kicking, spinning, moving his/her arms. It was AMAZING!!!

I am still not showing (no belly at all!), so it is beautiful and comforting to see that everything is just fine and our baby is healthy! :) Thank you so much for all your thoughts and prayers. We are SO grateful that everything is still 'so far, so good!' (Praise the Lord!).

ENJOY :)

Hugs,

Doug, Kate y El Bebe :)

Marsha

2009-03-17T19:50:00.000-07:00

Marsha and Ian just a couple days before her surgery celebrating her 55th birthday at my Mom & John's house in Aurora, IL.

Marsha was an AMAZING artist....this is one of her handmade cards from her "Mazels from the Heart" Collection

This picture was taken in 2000 when Marsha and Ian came to see my first pageant with my Mom (my Grandma Stern & Dad are pictured with us here).

This blog post is to celebrate the life of our dear friend, our dear family member, my Mom’s best friend of almost 30 years, Marsha. Marsha, Ian, her loving husband, and her five kids were all like family to us and we have always cared about them deeply. Please continue to keep them in your prayers at this time.

Marsha was born on January 15, 1954 in Skokie, IL. She attended ISU and majored in Art. She and Ian raised five beautiful children in Decatur, IL and had four grandchildren. Her life was centered around her family and her art.

If you count life by the number of years lived, Marsha died far too young. However, if you count life by the number of lives you enriched and touched, Marsha died a very very old woman. My entire immediate family traveled to Decatur, IL this past week to attend Marsha’s funeral…to celebrate her life and to mourn the fact that she will not be with us here any longer. It was a very hard day. There was standing room only for her funeral, every pew, every seat was filled--she touched so many lives. Marsha always gave 100% of herself to everyone…always. And, “she always had time for you”. I heard that over and over again from others (including my Mom)…and it was a truth that I was able to experience personally as well. I used to walk to her house after high school just to visit with her and her door was always open. She was fearless, courageous, determined yet utterly serene, at peace, and so filled with joy. I remember, as a child and young adult, how much I simply enjoyed being around her. Marsha’s pastor, from Grace United Methodist, joked that he learned quickly that Marsha could care less about your personal space.   Yep, she was always hugging you and getting close. It was so genuine and loving though, even those that were most protective of their ‘space’ couldn’t help to smile and appreciate the love that she was giving.

I rode back to Chicago after the funeral with my sister, Valerie, and what Val said really ‘summed it up’ about Marsha for me. Valerie said, “Marsha just ‘got it’….she understood what mattered in life and what didn’t and knew herself so well.” I couldn’t agree more. I remember that I went to a women’s retreat some years ago and Nancy Ortberg, one of the pastors/speakers, said something like…’When you are in your twenties you start to notice that there are two kinds of women who are in their middle-ages…women who are like chameleons, who are always changing in different scenarios, striving , pressuring themselves and others, and who seemingly have no idea who they are --it is unsettling. And then, you see women like Marsha, who know themselves so well and are so comfortable in their own skin that they radiate true beauty and love that is contagious. Marsha, although deeply principled, had nothing to prove to anyone, never showed off, she knew what mattered in life and what didn’t and was never afraid to ‘be herself’. And, Marsha has always been and will forever be an example to me of these things.

And, of the many reasons I loved Marsha, one of them was that she was a wonderful friend to my Mom until the day she died….truly. The weekend before Marsha went into surgery, she and her husband Ian visited my Mom and Stepdad, John, at their home in Aurora, IL. It was a gift they had this time with her and Ian right before her passing. They went to see a Broadway play in Downtown Chicago, celebrated Marsha’s birthday with cake and all, watched movies, caught up, shared laughs…she was very happy. Again, it was a gift. My Mom said in an email to us that after all these years, “we were still learning from each other.” My Mom will miss her dear friend immensely. We will all miss her, but we believe ….

“To be absent from this body is to be present with the Lord. And, from what I know of Him, that must be very good.” –Sara Groves

Kate

Beautiful Gifts :)

2009-03-11T10:07:00.000-07:00

Just before I was going to publish this post yesterday, I received a devastating phone call from my Mom, telling me that our dear family friend (and my Mom's best friend of almost 30 years), Marsha, had died. She was only 55....a loving Wife to Ian, Mother of 5 and Grandmother. We keep her husband and entire family in your prayers please. I can't imagine the loss they feel right now.

I am going to dedicate my next post to Marsha, but Doug and I still wanted to post this and send our genuine heartfelt 'Thanks' to Aunt Marcy (a.k.a. Frud) and Uncle Fred for their super thoughtful sweet 'care package' they sent us over the weekend. Doug was especially touched as some of these books (as seen in the picture below) he read (and loved) when he was a young boy. The books and note really BRIGHTENED our day and made us feel very loved. Thank you again, Frud & Fred!!!! :) We are so grateful! "Baby Smith" is truly blessed to have you both in his/her life!

And, on top of a wonderful visit this weekend, my sister ,Valerie, and brother-in-law, Steve, brought over all sorts of awesome baby gear and gorgeous maternity clothes (for TALLS! My sisters and I are all nearly 6 feet tall...we are grateful to be the same size!). Thank you both SO much. this picture (below) only shows a fraction (I'm serious) of everything they brought....thank you again! Plus, Valerie, also helped me start my Amazon Baby Registry with some of her 'must haves' for baby. We are grateful! Thank you!

Thank you again, Frud, Fred, Valerie & Steve!

Hugs & Love,

Doug & Kate

Pictures from a GREAT weekend! :)

2009-03-09T12:41:00.000-07:00

Staying with overnight with my Mom & John :).......Spending a day in Chicago with two of my best friends, Matt & Ted :)......Celebrating a good girlfriend's, K.C.'s, birthday..... :) Having my brother in-law Steve, my sister, Valerie, and Godbaby, Liam, overnight to visit on Sunday through today and celebrating Steve's birthday (early).... :)

All =

A WONDERFUL weekend!!!

Since one picture can say a thousand words....here's a few of my faves!

Love, Doug & Katie

Uncle Doug and Liam having an obviously FUN time together! L-O-V-E this picture!

After we went out for Steve's birthday (early...his actual b-day is on March 26), we came home, got in pajamas and all checked our I-Phones--lol. It looked like a mini "Apple" store on our couch...hehe

Steve telling his birthday pie (Steve prefers birthday PIE, versus Cake) "You are GOING DOWN!" haha

Steve, Val, Liam and the trick candles we put in the pie.....lol

'The Ladies" Celebrating K.C.'s 37th birthday at "Jolly Bob's" :) Happy Birthday, K.C.! K.C. is on the left side wearing white!!!

Pauline (Teddy's good friend from Germany whom he studied with in China), Ted, and Matt. Again, Ted & Matt are LONG time best friends :) Fun Fact: Ted & I both grew up in Decatur, IL :)

Thank You!

2009-03-05T04:03:00.001-08:00

Many thanks to you and everyone for your wonderful emails, comments, Facebook messages, Facebook comments, etc. Doug and I were really touched by everyone's warm CONGRATS! :) Thank you! Thank you!
Our dear friend, Ted, whom I personally have known for decades (just about!) and attended college at ONU with, sent me a song late last night that I had never heard,"Capri", by Colbie Caillat, which is perfect for this occasion! Doug and I listened to it together....it was simply beautiful....my eyes definitely became a little watery (yes, I cried a bit). So, last night, we put the song up on our blog (see top righthand corner of our blog). I think with copyrights, you can only listen to about 30 seconds of it, but I'm sure you'll get the picture of how lovely this song is. Again, simply BEAUTIFUL. Thanks again to all of you and to Ted for sending over the song...."Capri" :) Hope you enjoy listening to it as much as we did. :)

Gratefully,
Kate

Capri lyrics
She’s got a baby inside
And holds her belly tight
All through the night
Just so she knows
She’s sleeping so
Safely to keep
Her growing
And oh when she'll open her eyes
There'll be no surprise
That she'll grow to be
So beautifully
Just like her mother
That’s carrying
Oh Capri
She’s beauty
Baby inside she’s loving
Oh Capri
She’s beauty
There is and angel growin’ peacefully
Oh Capri
Sweet baby
And things will be hard at times
But I've learned to try
Just listening
Patiently, oh Capri
Sweet baby
Oh Capri
She’s beauty
Baby inside she’s loving
Oh Capri
Your beauty
Just like your mother
That’s carrying...Oh Capri

BIG News!!!

2009-03-03T22:18:00.001-08:00

'Baby Smith' is due on 09.28.09!!!

Doug & I have already shared the fabulous news with our family and many many of our dear friends, so we decided now would be a good time for an announcement on our blog of this JOYful news! Yes, I am PREGNANT!!! We heard the heartbeat again yesterday at the doctor's office, which was just beautiful, and we are beyond excited (Doug and I both got a little choked up). So, I am over ten weeks (just a couple more weeks until I am out of the first trimester, a.k.a. 'I feel sick all the time' trimester. :) However, I am still able to workout regularly (though I have toned down the intensity of my workouts to keep my heart rate at safe levels) and am eating well, so everything is 'so far so good'!. We pray for 'Baby Smith' every night before bed and are just enjoying every moment of this special time. Thanks for sharing in and celebrating with us!

Also, I saw this 'creative' US Weekly announcement for some friends on Becky & Mike's blog, "The Powers Family" (see right hand column for link to their blog), and I showed Doug saying "this kind of announcement would be cute/humorous for our blog" and Doug surprised me in making/creating this cover ...I think it is perfect for this venue. Thank you again, Hubby!!!

Much Love & Excitement,

The Smith Family

~Doug, Kate & Baby :)

Just a Reminder...

2009-03-02T09:54:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder this Monday of God's love for you...

Sara Groves, as I have said many times before, is one of my favorite songwriters. I love this song of hers...the lyrics are simple yet so powerful.

"You Cannot Lose My Love"--Sara Groves

You will lose your baby teeth.

At times, you'll lose your faith in me.

You will lose a lot of things,

But you cannot lose my love.

You may lose your appetite,

Your guiding sense of wrong and right.

You may lose your will to fight,

But you cannot lose my love.

You will lose your confidence.

In times of trial, your common sense.

You may lose your innocence,

But you cannot lose my love.

Many things can be misplaced;

Your very memories be erased.

No matter what the time or space,

You cannot lose my love.

You cannot lose,

My Love.

Happy Monday!

Kate

Movie Night :)

2009-02-26T20:47:00.000-08:00

I am feeling much better (thank you for all your emails, etc). And, tonight, I went out with 'the ladies' to see "Confessions of a Shopaholic." If you want to see a light-hearted movie that will make you laugh a lot, this is the movie for you. Initially, I wasn't terribly excited to see a movie about 'extreme'designer shopping in light of the 'fiscal crisis' our nation is in the midst of, but I was just excited to get out with 'the ladies'. Actually though, this movie was about someone living way beyond their means and learning some live lessons....and it is just really humorous....I enjoyed it! Plus, Hugh Dancy is charming and great in it. :) SO, I would recommend it as a 'cute movie' and just had a nice night out with 'the ladies' after being sick. Yay, for feeling better :) Thanks again for your concern!

Happy Almost Friday!!!!

Kate :)

Feeling 'Under the Weather'....

2009-02-25T09:17:00.001-08:00

Hey all! I am feeling quite ill this week....just trying to make it through. :)~
A lot I am looking forward to blogging about and sharing with you.
For today though, I am just praying that I feel better by the weekend! UGH!

Hope you are enjoying your Wednesday! Hugs!
Katie

BEAUTIFUL :)

2009-02-20T08:31:00.001-08:00

I saw this picture on Anna Spiro's blog, "Absolutely Beautiful Things" (www.absolutelybeautifulthings.blogspot.com) and just loved it. A HUGE porch, dancing, music, warmth, flowers, space, love, fun.....just some of the words that came to mind when I saw it.
Happy Friday Everyone! ENJOY!

Kate

Time with Friends :)

2009-02-16T17:41:00.000-08:00

"A great friend is someone who knows the song in your heart and can sing it back to you when you have forgotten the words."

What a sweet post Doug SURPRISED (very much surprised--LOL) me with this last Friday for the start of our Valentine's weekend! Thank you again, hubby! Doug was a 'guest writer' of sorts...loved it and his humor :)

We actually celebrated Valentine's Day Friday and Sunday both, as Saturday Doug was in class, of course. Also, on Saturday, Doug and I had the opportunity to spend some quality time with a couple who has a very special place in my heart, Rick & Karyn. Karyn was/is like a mentor to me, a dear friend beginning when I was just 20 years old, and both Karyn & Rick are 'family of choice' who have impacted my life, and now Doug's life, greatly in many many beautiful ways. :) We enjoyed a lot of quality conversations, great food (including Gino's Pizzas, which I haven't enjoyed for ages), Doug and I shared some joyful news, and we just enjoyed 'catching up' on everything! Thanks again Rick & Karyn!!!

Much Love,

Doug & Katie

Faith....

2009-02-16T15:47:00.001-08:00

"Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."
Hebrews 11:1

An amazing girl named Kate...

2009-02-12T22:02:00.000-08:00

I haven't made very many posts on the blog before (this is actually my first!) but I wanted to say to everyone that I'm lucky enough to have met the love of my life 5 years ago. I had no clue that when I first met Katie Stern that I was going to get to spend the rest of my life with such a beautiful girl. In case its been awhile since you met her, she's the one who has an unwavering passion for loved ones (and that's pretty much everyone), for adventure and yet looking stylish at the same time, for being in new places to try new things, and for capturing it all with her camera to share with those who missed out on the fun.
I feel blessed because I met this amazing girl who has not only joined me in doing life together but also always desires for me to be the best man that I can be and never settle for less. Kate's got a big heart and its addicting in a good way.
Here's to you this Valentine's Day babe...

Love,
-Doug

And what would a blog post on this site be without a few good pictures?
Here are some of my favorites to embarrass her!

A good looking gal, eh?

Did I mention that I'm a lucky guy?

Kissing the love of my life

Family Weekend!

2009-02-12T18:23:00.000-08:00

So...finally, I write more than one sentence. :)~

I'm still catching up here...lol.

Last weekend we had a wonderful time with family after flying in from California. While Doug was in class, I had a blast with my Mom, sisters, nieces, nephews, cousins, Aunts and my Grandma. We shared great news, caught up, shared a few meals and had a wonderful time. Doug met me up at my Grandma's home after class and a meeting and then we headed to dinner with Doug's brother, Jeff, and our sister-in-law, Allison. We spent the night at my Mom and John's house, spent some quality time with them in the morning, then headed home.....at last. We had a great times, but it is always good to be home. So, this week was 'catch up' week. Yes, indeed. :)

Here are some pictures of last weekend....And, if I don't blog again before Saturday, Happy Valentines Day to you!!! Hope you enjoy with your significant other, friends or family. It's just another day to celebrate all kinds of love. :)

<3>

Our nephew, Liam, :)

Liam holding on to my sister's leg.....cutie.

Jenna showing me her playroom at her house!

A mini family reunion: My Mom, My Grandma, cousin Karl, Aunt Susie, cousin Isabella, sister Erica and my Auntie Jayne who escaped this picture, BUT........ :0) lol......(See Below!)

I 'chased' after her (we were both laughing pretty hard) as she made a run for her house! lol She is a lot of fun!

A few more pictures from Santa Barbara :)

2009-02-10T12:33:00.000-08:00

“There are many things in life that will catch your eye, but only a few will catch your heart….pursue those.”

-Michael Nolan

California :)

2009-02-06T21:37:00.000-08:00

Happy Friday to you!!!

I am SOOOOOOOO behind in posts....sorry! We just returned from a short trip from Santa Barbara, so I'll start with a few photos (surprise surprise--lol) and post more later. We are really exhausted and sleepy, but had a really wonderful time. :) Hope you enjoy your weekend....Again, more pictures and words to come.... :)

~Kate

At "The Spa" at 'The Four Seasons" -checking it out. Modern/Retro mix and most CHIC (enjoyed the design greatly!!).

Yep, a LOT of rain. So, we were given umbrellas like this one every time we left our cottage. :) Rain is WAY better than snow, so I didn't mind at all. :) :)

I was so grateful to sit looking out on the ocean in this room and eat my breakfast, lunch or dinner...It was such a breathtaking room...I loved to just walk by and stare :) We definitely do not eat breakfast in Wisconsin while enjoying an oceanview--haha, so it was most appreciated.

My favorite flowers of all time....this place had beautiful HUGE gardens. Amazing.

This Friday Night....

2009-01-30T17:24:00.001-08:00

I don't know about you, but the picture above is a great 'description' of how I am feeling this Friday night....EXHAUSTED (what a week). Doug will be in class tomorrow, and I will be doing party-prep for 'Superbowl at the Smith House' (GO STEELERS!). So, when Doug gets home in a few minutes here, we are dedicated to 'putting our feet up' and watching a few episodes of one of our favorite shows "FRINGE" or "The Closer", and having some laughs :) I hope you all have a great night and weekend! Thank you again for all of the emails this last week...seriously, "evermore thanks." :) Superbowl Party pictures to come :)

Happy Friday!!!
Kate

Thoughtful Thursday

2009-01-29T09:20:00.000-08:00

“ God doesn’t give you the people you want... instead He gives you the people you need.... some to teach you, some to help you, some to hurt you, some to leave you, some to love you ---making you the person you were meant to be."

My blog-friend, Angie, designer/owner of Angelica Grace Designs (www.angelicagracedesigns.com/blog -- check her blog and designs out--super cute, chic, and original!), posted this quote on her well-written blog recently. I asked her if I could use it on mine here to share it with you. Angie said in her post that it was "profound"--much agreed.

Hugs & Love,

Kate

What inspires you? ! :)

2009-01-27T11:15:00.000-08:00

Every so often.....I sit down and put together things that make me happy and that I hope for/am working towards....
Often, it's pictures of sunny beaches, dancing, smiles, celebrating, my current favorite fabric, pictures of my favorite interior design rooms, stories of God's faithfulness, pictures of ways I want to help others locally and globally, pictures representing joy, FREEDOM, gorgeous photography, pictures of exhaustive/challenging running paths , hard yoga poses, traveling, adventure, a favorite home (dream home...usually on the ocean :) ) , etc. You get the picture. My 'inspiration' board looks a lot like the one above....I love it. It is basically images that tell a story about who I am, what I love....it connects me with and inspires.....makes me feel understood and like these things are possible.
And, it's really simple. I'll buy a huge foam white board at "Michael's Craft Stores" for $1 , and use old magazines and simply cut out those words, pictures or phrases that inspire (glue or tape them on). You can keep it in your office, at home....whatever.....there are no rules. :) A lot of my friends here in Madison get together at a coffee shop once every couple months and bring magazines, ads, etc. and just have a ball....fun times!

Some people call it 'the law of attraction'....others call it goal setting....I just see it as inspiration that works for me...and hopefully you :)

Happy Tuesday!
Kate :)

Wisdom & a Frog :)

2009-01-25T20:00:00.001-08:00

"Once you blend a frog, you can't put it back together."

Doug and I are grateful for a wonderful morning today... sleeping in, out to brunch and church! :) At brunch this morning, Doug was passionately telling me more about this speaker he really enjoyed in his Marketing class on Saturday at Northwestern. In addition to 'this important person' talking about Marketing at his company (his name was Doug, as well, by the way--good name!), he also gave a list of things that he wished he had allowed himself to learn earlier in life (I believe this man is currently in his fifties). And, one of those things is the quote above (he also showed a graphic of a frog and a blender, but probably a different/better one than this--lol). His point was that "you can't un-do what you have said or what you have done to someone...so think of the lasting effects before acting and speaking "(especially the serious stuff). WISE man, right?! I really enjoyed 'the visual' and the analogy on the whole....And, I LOVE love LOVE when humble wise individuals (this man is definitely leaps and bounds wiser than I from what I can see) speak about what they have learned in life.....SOOO helpful. Like Eleanor Roosevelt once said,
"Learn from the mistakes of others. You can’t live long enough to make them all yourself." :)

P.S. I also had my first EMERGE classes Friday night and all-day Saturday in Milwaukee....it was amazing....will share more about the program and photos of our 2009 class later this week :)

Happy Almost Monday! ~Kate

A Blast from the Past..... :)

2009-01-24T21:20:00.000-08:00

Just for fun, I dug up a few old photos (try at least 9 years ago!!!) and scanned them. I can't believe I am already telling kids, "When I was your age, there were no digital cameras....(serious face...lol)" hehe
Enjoy~Kate

P.S. Thank you all for your emails about our last post...your stories and perspectives were beautiful and much appreciated. :)

Me & my sister, Valerie and Erica in Whitehall, Michigan. It was the year 2000.... :)

Fall 2000 with Erin (still BEST friends) and our dear friend, Leah! This is our Freshman year at ONU in Williams Hall....oh, memories...good times :)

This was my dorm hall group picture my freshman year at ONU..... I am still (at LEAST) in contact with most of them on Facebook (LOVE Facebook!) Hi Ladies!

LOL--Performing, "I Want To Be In America!" from West Side Story at Olivet (ONU). This was called "Broadway Review!" Fun....fun....

A Perspective on Forgiveness...

2009-01-22T15:37:00.000-08:00

This is a couple small paragraphs, directly from Shauna Niequist’s book, Cold Tangerines , that really ‘hit home’ for me particularly about a year ago, and I believe God used these words and others in her book to help me heal and grow in some big ways…even still. I actually emailed Shauna (the author) to share with her and thank her (the first time I have ever felt compelled to write an author, actually, and she was very gracious). The seriousness of your situation and mine is our own. I don’t understand what you are going through/have been through, and I certainly don’t dare suggest that you ‘should or should not’ continue a relationship with someone in your life who has hurt you (maybe repeatedly). Again, your situation is your own….
This is simply a perspective from a wonderful author on forgiveness that I believe is extraordinarily healthy, honest and refreshing (one that continually helps me) and thus, I wanted to share some of Shauna’s words with you…. ☺

Cold Tangerines, Shauna Niequist
“The Hook”

"Why would I forgive someone who doesn’t’ even think he needs to be forgiven?
This is why. Because I want my neck and my back muscles to stop hurting, to unfurl like window shades. Because I want to sleep instead of having endless imaginary conversations. Because I want my mind back. Because I want my life back. Because he’s not the only one on the hook. Because every time I hang him up on that hook, the hook reaches down and grabs me, too. My friend says something like bitterness is when you drink poison hoping the other person dies. This person who hurt me is doing great, I think, but I stagger around in a fog of anger and clenched jaws and fists, waiting for a showdown that will never come and an apology that will NEVER be offered. So I let him off the hook. I let him off once, to start, and felt pretty good about myself, until someone brought his name up at lunch, and then I got mad all over again, which threw me for a loop. I forgave him. Why am I still so mad at him? I felt like I bought expensive wrinkle cream and woke up more wrinkly than even. I wanted my money back. I realized that I had to take him off the hook every single time, not just one big time. I had to take him off the hook in the morning, and then again at lunch, when someone gave me a NEW reason to be mad at this person. Over and over, all day, I had to do the heavy lifting work of letting him off the hook . It was like moving a piano all the way across the living room, and then waking up the next morning and finding it’s back in the other corner, and I have to move it again. Every day I had to push that heavy piano all the way across the living room, even though I just did it the day before. It was like a full-time job, forgiving him over and over, with each new angry thought or bad conversation we had… And I still have to keep letting him off, every day, sometimes several times a day. Not for his sake, but for mine, because I want off the hook. It’s hard work, and I don’t want to do it, but I keep on doing it. I keep on letting him off the hook, because when I do, I can breathe again.”

And move on….

Shauna's blog has been on my list of 'favorites' on Doug & I's blog here for a while, but here it is, again. I never miss a post she does :) Check it out...http://www.shaunaniequist.com/

With a deep breath,

Kate :)

Over 2,500 Visitors! Thanks everyone!

2009-01-21T11:30:00.000-08:00

~ A blog is merely a tool that lets you do anything from change the world to share your shopping list. ~ Unknown

A blog is in many ways a continuing conversation ~ Andrew Sulllivan

Thank you all so much for reading/glancing at Doug & I's little blog here. I often check to see how many visits I have had per week (well--most of the time, anyway--not super detailed about this), but I have never checked how many visitors we have had in total....until.....today. :) So, since June (when we started the count), we have had over 2,500 visitors--pretty cool!!! :). I always joke with Doug that half of our number of visitors are probably my parents--lol (Hi Mom, John, Dad & Julie!!! You guys are great!), but either way this has been a F-U-N way to communicate with a lot of people we don't get to see on a regular basis--so, thanks again for taking the time to look at this small slice of our lives--we truly appreciate you. :)

P.S. If you haven't already, consider joining the BLOGGER WORLD! :)

Happy Wednesday to you! And, thank you once again for visiting!
Kate :)

Family :)

2009-01-18T19:50:00.000-08:00

Uncle Doug (Or, as Alyse says, "Uncle Dog"--LOL) and Alyse

Everyone before the birthday cake! :)

Alyse 'playing' her Great Grandfather's piano (My Dad's Dad, Abraham Albert) who is in the large black and white photo on the piano. He was a wonderful pianist....I also played this piano for 10 years growing up, so it means a lot to me for many reasons.
On a different note, don't you love her fearless fashion?--haha :)

Tryistan being his photogenic self! He just got back from his first Wrestling Meet! He won a medal! yay! :)

John showing off one of his many presents. :) Since they just bought a new car, he received a few things for the 'new wheels' like the 'Garage Parking Signal' above. :)

Mommy and Daughter playing the piano (sweet)....Again, I just love the 'ski hat' and princess dress combo--taking fashion risks...GORGEOUS!

Mom & Granddaughter (twin) Alyse watching Wall-E together

Tryistan reading his new book "Diary of a Wimpy Kid" (the newest book, which he was so excited to get from his Mama :)) Don't you love how he put three kitchen chairs together to lay on to read?? haha :)

We loved having my Mom, Step-Dad, John, Michelle, Alyse (niece) & Tryistan (nephew) stay with us this weekend...I was able to spend some quality time with my Mom and John early Saturday morning (which was much needed and so nice). They took me to my favorite restaurant "Old Fashioned" (yes, I go there a few times a month - :)) and drove me around in their new car--Congrats again Mom & John!!! Michelle, Tryistan & Alyse joined us early evening, and Doug joined us soon after (fresh in from Chicago and his classes at Kellogg). We had great conversations, watched "Wall-E" in Blu-Ray (of course!--haha) all together and celebrated John's birthday (which is in just a few days)--Happy Birthday again Grandpa John! :) It was simply a restful fun weekend with family :)

Hope you have a great week...until the next blog!
Kate :)

Dad & Julie Visited! Thanks guys!

2009-01-14T20:19:00.000-08:00

Dad & Doug--Dry-Walling--I love this picture!

The four of us out to eat at "Old Fashioned" downtown

Dad & Me :) :)

Dad & Julie taking us out to eat! :)

Cute pic of them!

LOL--Dad, this one's for you!!!! We just wanted to make sure we could all tell which one was 'you.' Haha :) (inside joke...sorry to my bloggers!)

This weekend we were SO happy to see my Dad & Step-Mom, Julie, who drove in from Chicago.We had a BLAST--Doug and my Dad worked on drywalling (remember, my Dad is a serious talented construction guy!), while Julie and I worked hard at enjoying a shopping outing (haha). That evening, Dad and Julie took us out to eat at our favorite restaurant (thank you again SO much Dad & Julie for your generosity!). Then, we celebrated Julie's birthday (Happy Birthday!!!) and watched a movie together --"Ironman"

Doug and I are very blessed to have my parents (Dad, Julie, Mom & John). They are always helping us with house stuff (landscaping, dry-walling, small projects, bringing furniture over, advice at 1 a.m. in the morning--lol). Being first-time home owners, this means so much to us....we feel a lot less alone in trying to figure everything out--thank you you guys, we love you so much, and we are beyond grateful for your constant support of us and for us!

Dad and Julie, thank you again for visiting--we had a great time!
LOVE,
Katie & Doug :)

A dose of Eleanor

2009-01-13T11:55:00.000-08:00

(Yes, I can relate with Eleanor in this picture-lol. Like myself, she was relatively tall :))

One of favorite persons in history is Eleanor Roosevelt....I admire her for many reasons....one is the wisdom she had and shared. Here are some of her famous words and some of my favorite quotes of hers. I hope they inspire, challenge and encourage you today. ENJOY!

Kate :)

(Eleanor Roosevelt (1884 - 1962) US diplomat & reformer)

A woman is like a tea bag- you never know how strong she is until she gets in hot water.

Beautiful young people are accidents of nature, but beautiful old people are works of art.

Do what you feel in your heart to be right - for you'll be criticized anyway. You'll be damned if you do, and damned if you don't.

Friendship with oneself is all-important, because without it one cannot be friends with anyone else in the world.

Great minds discuss ideas; Average minds discuss events; Small minds discuss people.

I could not at any age be content to take my place in a corner by the fireside and simply look on.

I think that somehow, we learn who we really are and then live with that decision.

If someone betrays you once, it’s their fault; if they betray you twice, it’s your fault.

It is not fair to ask of others what you are unwilling to do yourself.

Justice cannot be for one side alone, but must be for both.

Learn from the mistakes of others. You can’t live long enough to make them all yourself.

Life was meant to be lived, and curiosity must be kept alive. One must never, for whatever reason, turn his back on life.

One thing life has taught me: if you are interested, you never have to look for new interests. They come to you. When you are genuinely interested in one thing, it will always lead to something else.

The purpose of life is to live it, to taste experience to the utmost, to reach out eagerly and without fear for newer and richer experience.

You gain strength, courage and confidence by every experience in which you really stop to look fear in the face. You are able to say to yourself, 'I have lived through this horror. I can take the next thing that comes along.' You must do the thing you think you cannot do.

No one can make you feel inferior without your consent.

People grow through experience if they meet life honestly and courageously. This is how character is built.

When you cease to make a contribution, you begin to die.

Remember always that you not only have the right to be an individual, you have an obligation to be one.

When life is too easy for us, we must beware or we may not be ready to meet the blows which sooner or later come to everyone, rich or poor.

Baby Eden!

2009-01-12T15:49:00.001-08:00

On December 4, I wrote a short blog congratulating our friends, R.J. and Marisa on the birth of their daughter, Eden!!! This Saturday, I had the opportunity to hang out with Marisa, Eden and big brother Noah at their home, and captured quite a few shots of the beautiful baby girl!!! Thanks again Marisa for having me over! :)

Here are some pictures of the very adorable....EDEN! Enjoy! <3

Isn't Eden a doll? It looks like she is grinning here...love it. :)

Since her parents and brother are such great dancers, I'd like to think this is one of her 'newborn dance moves.'--hehe--She's a CUTIE!

"Hello Beautiful!"

This is my favorite picture with Eden's pinky finger out....Marisa & I were joking that she was saying "Peace out people!" LOL

Big Brother Noah trying to cheer up his sister with a kiss. Sweet, right?

Beautiful Mama Marisa & Eden. Notice the "Mommy & Me" hair (which Eden had at birth! Lucky girl!)

Precious :)

Kelly's Skating Pictures & Weekend Recap :)

2009-01-11T22:07:00.000-08:00

We had a very busy & full, but GREAT weekend... On Friday night we had the opportunity to watch Doug's sister, Kelly, skate with her team from Miami University here in Wisconsin. Kelly and her entire team looked AWESOME (as you can see in the pictures below). :) Thank you so much for inviting us, Kelly. It meant a lot to us to see you skate--we are proud of you! :)

And, while Doug got up at 5 a.m. Saturday to brave the ice/snowy highways on his way to downtown Chicago for class (back to Kellogg!), I went to go see little miss beautiful newborn, Eden, along with Mommy Marisa and big brother, Noah! And when Doug returned late Saturday night, we had a neighborhood party at Jason & Kim's where we met a lot of neighbors and such. On Sunday morning, my Dad and Julie visited (and stayed the night--just left this morning) and helped up with a few projects around the house (drywalling--yay!). Actually, my Dad and Doug did the drywalling and Julie and I had a lovely day shopping --LOL:) SO.....more posts and pictures of Eden, Noah, Marisa, Dad & Julie to come....very soon! :)

A few more Captiva Photos :)

2009-01-10T09:37:00.001-08:00

It took me a while to go through all the photos....finally, I am done. So, here are just a few more...

Thanks for taking a look !:)

Friday Fun!

2009-01-09T11:02:00.000-08:00

"I got it on EBAY"

Enjoy! Happy Merry Friday!
Kate :-)

Captiva Photos!

2009-01-07T21:46:00.000-08:00

Me and Hubby on beach :)

beautiful birds EVERWHERE

Yep, this was the sunset.....AMAZING, right?

SMOOCH...Uncle Mike took this of us. He said he liked it because it was a 'candid shot' :) . I agree.

Shells....Shells....Shells....LOVE them!

Captain Fluffy & Doug on Uncle Mike's boat :)

Me & Auntie Marcia!

Doug, Aunt Marcia & Uncle Mike.....enjoying time together....!

Kelly Visited!

2009-01-07T16:17:00.000-08:00

I meant to post these pictures BEFORE we left last week for Florida. We were really excited and grateful that Doug's sister Kelly came to visit us before we left. Kelly was fresh in the States from Europe (literally--she just flew in hours before) where she was having a lot of fun with a good friend of hers from college, Mery, over the holidays. Doug is very fond of his sister (me too), Kelly. She is hard not to love, honestly. Kelly is independent, thoughtful, adventurous, smart, kind-hearted, mature with a great head on her shoulders, a very talented figure skater (she skates and goes to school at Miami University in Ohio) ....and is just a chill fun person to be around. So, when she was here, we all went out to dinner (sushi), out to a coffee shop and then saw "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button", which I thought was excellent, thought-provoking movie. And, while I was at work the next morning, Doug and Kelly were able to catch brunch together.... :)

Not sure if you read this, but thanks again for coming, Kelly! You are fun. :)

Love, Doug & Katie :)

We're Home from South Florida!!!

2009-01-07T07:13:00.000-08:00

There must be quite a few things that a hot bath and rest won't cure, but I don't know many of them.

~Sylvia Plath, The Bell Jar

Hello Everyone!

Doug and I arrived home yesterday (actually, this morning!) After one boat ride (from Captiva to Pine Island), two car rides (to and from airports) and three planes (yes, three!), Doug and I finally made it home at 2 a.m. this morning (delayed flights due to weather and ice on the planes--fun, eh??!). We had an AMAZING time in North Captiva. The weather was STELLAR, beaches were simply stunning, and Doug and I had a BLAST together....laughing, laying out on the beach (at least 6 hours a day!), going back to the beach for sunsets and back to the beach again for late night walks with cigars in hand (the ocean is full of so much mystery at night...love that). Overall, our time was full of reflecting, resting, talking, laughing, DANCING (of course!) , reading, a morning run (everyday...love these especially on the beach). I also saw DOLFINS on the boat ride (which was very cool for me, an "old hat" for Doug--LOL). We were so grateful that we had this opportunity to go and ENJOY...it was a beautiful time and vacation. :)

SO..........now we are back at REALITY (oh, yes). After getting in the wee hours of this morning, I had to get up for a 7:30 a.m. meeting this morning with our company business consultant, Doug is finishing up a big game at his work and is planning on working at least 14 hour days/6 days/week for the next month, and Doug starts back at Northwestern (Kellogg) this Saturday (seriously, that man is amazing....I don't know how he gives so much to work and this MBA program and still have the positive attitude he does). Not to mention....laundry (lots of sandy clothes), putting away our Christmas tree and decorations, mail, etc. (you name it). The intensity of the next few months with work and Doug's MBA program made this vacation even more special, NEEDED, and appreciated.

Special gratitude, love and hugs again to Mike & Marcia who not only let us use their second home is Captiva (it was so lovely!), but whom also personally boated us across from Island to Island and picked us up and dropped us off at the airport (in STYLE, I might add :) ). Thank you again Mike & Marcia--we had a GREAT time with you guys and love you both tremendously. We are grateful for you both!

Lastly, I took about 270 photos (yep! I LOVE my new camera). So, I will post about 10 or so later today or tomorrow. If you are on facebook, I am sure I will post an album or two in the next few days, so...if you are interested....there will be quite a few to look at. :)

Thanks to our family and friends for your prayers for a wonderful trip (it was) and for looking after our home while we were gone. Special thanks to Adele & K.C. for dropping by our home during the week to take care of Bitty (our expressive funny cat). Adele and K.C., thank you so much for your time and everything! K.C., you were right about the ice on our driveway...the first thing I did when I got out of the car at home was.............to slip and fall on the ice.....at 2 a.m............with gold sparkly t-strap sandals still on my feet (not on purpose, I forgot to pack my closed toe shoes in my carry on--lol).

Back in Madison and back at work...Hugs & Love,
Kate :)

Pictures from the Celebrations! :)

2008-12-28T23:04:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays to you! Here are just a few pictures (with my new camera!!!) from a couple of our celebrations..............ENJOY!

My Handsome & Talented Hubby--the FIRST picture I took with my new camera!!! Yay!

Mmmmm....cupcakes for our guests. (My Christmas theme is Silver & White)

Tryistan, Michelle & Alyse on Christmas Day. :)

Alyse was having a GREAT time--such personality!!! This was after opening her presents--lol.

Oh....Tryistan is one happy young man.... :) :)

Laura, Blake & Doug at our home for a Christmas party!

Our sister-in-law Allison, and Doug's brother, Jeff at the party (after the dinner & before gifts!)

Opening one of my gifts and obviously having a great time doing it!

Presents under the tree (pre-parties, of course!)

The table was set for the dinner party.......

Bitty (our cat formerly known as "Miss America, the Kitty") making me laugh with her expressions....she's a fun pet...we love her :)

:) BEAMING :)

2008-12-22T10:49:00.000-08:00

“Photography is a small voice, at best, but sometimes one photograph, or a group of them, can lure our sense of awareness.”
W. Eugene Smith quotes

“Photography is a way of feeling, of touching, of loving. What you have caught on film is captured forever... it remembers little things, long after you have forgotten everything.”
Aaron Siskind quotes

This was my early Christmas present from the hubby (Can you tell I am excited and BEAMING??--LOL) !!! :)

Doug, thank you SO MUCH for always surprising me and encouraging my passions. :) :) :) Those of you who know me, know that I have been wanting a Digital SLR for a long long LONG time (This one is a Nikon D90). I LOVE taking pictures.......I LOVE the art of photography (I took two photography classes in college using my Dad's Nikromat from the 1970s and developed my own photos--awesome)....I LOVE capturing moments. One picture really can say "a THOUSAND words" (no doubt about that).

Needless to say, this just may be my favorite gift I ever received!!! I am having a blast learning how to use this thing and reading all about it!!! I am excited to use it on our coming vacation (yay for warm weather and a break from work and school!) and with all the guests that will be staying with us over the Christmas holiday. :) :)

Can't wait to share these photos with you--CANNOT WAIT! :)

Merry Early Christmas & Happy Holidays to you and yours,

Kate

WOLVERINE !

2008-12-18T19:40:00.000-08:00

Congrats to the WOLVERINE team for the cover of EGM!

It's Party Season!!!

2008-12-08T15:04:00.000-08:00

Doug (Hubby) & I at Doug's brother and sister-in-law's party (Jeff & Allison)

Some of the ladies enjoying the party--Bridget, Emily, Jennifer & Carla :)

Cinsy & I at Raven's Christmas party (Doug's work) :)

A candid shot (sort of --lol) of Marisa, me, Adele & K.C. at the Raven party

Doug and his good friend, Brandon. Hanging out before AXIS at Willow Creek. Brandon is one of the head pastor's at AXIS.

Liam playing with his Mom's (my sister Valerie's) necklace (I thought this was a cute moment).

Dad, Erica (my sister) and my niece, Jenna. Note: the matching blue outfits ;0)

Steve (my fantastic brother-in-law :) ) and Doug :)

My Step-Mom, Julie, & Jenna

Happy Monday to you! Hope everyone had a peaceful weekend. :) Doug and I had 3 Christmas parties this weekend (Friday, Saturday & Sunday) and Doug had class all-day Saturday (which, of course, means we were up at 5 a.m. after getting to bed at 1 a.m. from party #1--we were tired--lol!). All the parties were very fun and different! Friday night was Doug's company's work party here in Madison at a hotel ballroom (it was lovely and a lot of fun!). Saturday was Doug's brother, Jeff, and sister-in-law, Allison's Christmas party at their home in Palatine, IL--they threw a great party! And Sunday, Doug and I celebrated Christmas with my Dad and Julie at their Chicago place with the fam--great times, great food (thank you, Julie!!). Also, on Saturday night, we had the opportunity to stay with the Grissom Family, Brandon, Beki & Stella. :) Doug and Brandon are great friends and it was awesome to catch up. :) Needless to say though, by 8 p.m. last night when we finally pulled into our driveway, we were very excited to get home and REST!!! Of course, I took 70 pictures over the weekend (I know...that's A LOT...thank the Lord for Digital cameras!-lol). So, here are a bunch. Happy Holiday Season to you and yours.... Love, Kate

Baby!

2008-12-04T09:48:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to our friends, R.J. & Marisa on the birth of daughter, Eden Rei!!!! What a gorgeous name--LOVE IT! Eden arrived this morning--Mom and baby are doing well. And, Noah is now the super cute big brother to Eden. :0)
What a gorgeous day to be born--it's a bright beautiful day here in Madison!

Pictures of Eden to come!

Congrats again!
Doug & Kate :)

"It's Going to Be Alright"

2008-12-03T12:32:00.000-08:00

My very good friend, Matt, of almost nine years (he and his family are like family to me), who resides in Carmel, Indiana, wrote out the lyrics to this song and sent them in a letter after a phone conversation I had with him months ago. I posted the written lyrics up on our home office 'note board,' and Doug and I have been reminding each other of these words whenever we need to hear it (you know.... on 'those days') :) It is comforting because it reminds us that in life, we can only do what we can do, and the rest we can surrender to God (it's liberating, actually). And, that, ulimately, when everything is said and done...."It's going to be alright."
I believe it really will.

Hopes these words also bring you peace today....

Happy Wednesday! Kate :)

Lyrics to It's Going To Be Alright
(Song & Lyrics by Sara Groves--my favorite lyrical songwriter).

It's going to be alright
It's going to be alright

I can tell by your eyes that you're not getting any sleep
And you try to rise above it, but feel you're sinking in too deep
Oh, oh I believe, I believe that

It's going to be alright
It's going to be alright

I believe you'll outlive this pain in you heart
And you'll gain such a strength from what is tearing you apart
Oh, oh I believe I believe that

It's going to be alright
It's going to be alright

When some time has past us, and the story is retold
It will mirror the strength and the courage in your soul

Oh, oh, I believe I believe,I believe I believe

I did not come here to offer you clichÈ's I will not pretend to know of all your pain
Just when you cannot, then I will hold out faith, for you...

It's going to be alright
It's going to be alright

Thanksgiving Pictures :)

2008-11-29T16:16:00.000-08:00

Brooke, me, & Ted!

Doug & I :)

Our Grams & Doug--Again, she adores him! :)

Me & Grams..going through pictures & letters...

My super-cute nephew Liam James ---LOVE this pic--lol. :)

My pretty niece Jenna & Liam--lookin' good. :)

LOL--Jenna is so cute (a total diva). She was POSING...loves the camera!

I am SOOOOOOOO thankful that we are still enjoying time off and that Doug was here and did not have to travel to Chicago for class this weekend--YAY!!!

This Thanksgiving, we drove down on Wednesday night (after work) to spend Thanksgiving day with my 92 year old Grandmother (Grams) in Decatur, IL. She was DELIGHTED to say the least. :) Doug and I were her only guests this Thanksgiving...so, although we could only stay until the afternoon, we had a wonderful time together (every minute of the trip was worth it to see her so happy!).
Since we came in rather late on Wednesday night, Doug and I had the opportunity to see some of my very best dearest and closest friends, Brooke and Ted (both grew up in Decatur, IL as well and I attended college with both too). I also saw some old/close friends, Liz & Nate (along with wife Audrey). The entire evening was just a TON of fun...to catch up ,laugh, and laugh more. :) We spent the evening at a cute musical outlet/bar in Decatur called BLOCKS. Thanks you guys!!!! I miss you a ton.

SO, after our visit with Grams, Doug and I drove a couple hours to see my Mom and sisters for Thanksgiving. As usual we had an awesome time at my Mom & John's...wonderful company (family), great food, lots of laughs, and a very loving casual atmosphere (my favorite). :) Thank you again, Mom & John!

ABOVE are just a few pictures from Wednesday night and Thursday --ENJOY! Love, Kate & Doug :)

Happy Thanksgiving! :)

2008-11-26T08:44:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!

Doug and I are so thankful to God for His unconditional beautiful love and all the gifts he has given to us…..for our FAMILY and FRIENDS (many of whom read this blog—thank you!) who often model such beautiful love to us in our lives. We thank God for breath, a home, jobs, for hope, good health, hugs (especially BEAR hugs), the ability to exercise, the gifts of site and hearing (amazing gifts!), freedom, the opportunity to go after our dreams (we don’t take this for granted…with great opportunity comes great responsibility), for warm beds, LAUGHTER, courage, the gift of mobility, smiles :0)….the list goes on and on….

May you SEIZE THE DAY…everyday….and find gratefulness….

Thank you God,
Kate

To speak gratitude is courteous and pleasant, to enact gratitude is generous and noble, but to live gratitude is to touch Heaven.
Author: Johannes A. Gaertner

There is a calmness to a life lived in Gratitude, a quiet joy.

Gratitude is one of the least articulate of the emotions, especially when it is deep.
Author: Felix Frankfurter

True thanksgiving means that we need to thank God for what He has done for us, and not to tell Him what we have done for Him. -.
Author: George R. Hendrick

P.S. My Favorite Quote of the Weekend :)

2008-11-23T20:06:00.001-08:00

(In a very sweet, sincere and serious tone)

"Auntie Katie.....my dogs might eat your kitty-cat, but don't worry....I'll buy you a new one, okay?!" -Alyse Nicole, age 4

LOL :) :)

Week/Weekend Pictures!

2008-11-23T19:04:00.000-08:00

This week was a busy one...and a fun one! Our monthly LADIES book club meeting (next we are reading "The Butterfly Sisters"), the Indocara Anniverary celebration/cocktail party (Indocara is an eclectic Asian inspired designer furniture company in downtown Madison), and my niece and nephew (Alyse and Tryistan) visiting were just a few of the highlights. Honestly, a huge highlight was getting to hang out with my hubby today. I LOVE Sundays.....and treasure this day I get to spend with Doug. Between Doug's work and his MBA and my work and all the networking and fun activities I have going on,we have learned to truly seize the moments we have together :)

SO, since one picture can say a thousand words (as it has been said). Here's a bunch..... :)

Alyse & Tryistan (I think their smiles are histerical!!)

Cute Alyse getting ready to bake Brownies with me. :)

Tryistan, playing one of MANY video games, here at the Smith House ( Hmmm...I think I know why he likes coming over--lol).

Baking brownies in a TUTU? How could we do it another way??? Haha....she's so funny!

Tracy & Meredith at K.C.'s house for Book Club :)

K.C. & Cincy....enjoying our book club meeting...I love this picture :)

Fancy Cake at the Indocara Party (I LOVE fancy cakes...so, I thought this was delightful!)

Picture of the party at Indocara on Thursday night....it was fun! Thanks for inviting me Elizabeth!!!!

Have a great week & Happy Early Thanksgiving!
Kate