Livy Love

Keep Calm and Be Mine!

2012-02-08T13:12:00.000-07:00

I made some Keep Calm and Be Mine Printables for you all to enjoy! The artwork is 8x10 and comes in Pink, Red, and Lavender. Share with your friends and print as many out as you want!!

Pink

Red

Purple

If you want one professionally printed and sent to you, there is a listing in my Etsy Shop!

Declan's Party

2012-02-06T17:31:00.000-07:00

About 3 months ago, my friend Alana asked me if I would be available to make her son Declan his birthday invites as well as labels for the party. I of course did and had so much fun in the process.

(some information has been changed)

Below are actual pictures taken from her blog of the party. All the labels were done by me with the creative eye from Alana! You have got to check out her blog and see the rest of the party! It is sooo adorable!

If you are looking for invites or a party package, email me! We can work together on a design.

My prints in a bathroom remodel

2012-02-05T22:22:00.000-07:00

One of my customers, Jordin, emailed me to show me the prints she ordered from me in her new bathroom remodel. I thought she did such a nice job picking out the perfect colors in the bathroom and the prints added such a nice touch! You should go check out the full remodel.

Thanks Jordin!

Wash your hands/brush your teeth print set listing

Counting Calories

2012-02-04T08:25:00.001-07:00

I have realized the only real diet that works for me is counting calories. I am very much a visual person so I love to write things down and be able to go back and look at. If you have ever used the My Fitness Pal phone app, then you know how awesome it really is. This app allows you to keep track of your daily intake of food. You can set a goal of how many calories you want to consume and then input food in which tells you the amount of calories it has in it. Lately I have been sticking around 1500...I try and eat around 1200 though just because I know I will see more results that way.

Counting calories has also made me so much more aware of how many calories are in food or the actual suggested servings sizes. I realize how much I was over eating. I have been doing this for 2 weeks and have already lost 10 lbs. It's a great thing to have to work toward because seeing one less pound on the scale is so worth not engorging myself in chocolate ice cream the night before (which has been oh so tempting). Do you use this app? What types of "dieting" methods work for you?

**Also- I need 2 more people who want to join the children's book exchange. All you need to do is buy 1 book and you will get 36! Email me Dianawinksmith at gmail dot com to be apart of it!!

Being a mom of two

2012-02-01T22:05:00.000-07:00

Where do I even begin?

These past 2 months have been amazing, exhausting and accomplishing.
I didn't know what to expect when I thought of being a mom to 2 kids. All that seemed to come to mind was busy. And I was right. I will be honest. I cry, a lot! I get really frustrated easily, probably because of little sleep and that is my coping mechanism because it allows me to get my frustration out. There are much worse ways. I realize though this will be the hardest part because Olivia is so young. Harrison is so young. Neither one understands very much and I am having to do so much for both. It can only get easier, right? I love Olivia's age right now and I know it will just get better. As fun as the newborn age is, it stresses me out! I am unsure of my babies needs and he is always changing. Pretty much, I am looking forward to the interaction and silliness that comes out of them. That is what I am looking forward to. They are only 16 months apart, so of course its not supposed to be easy. It's a challenge I am willing to take though.

Recent Custom prints

2012-01-30T15:50:00.000-07:00

This last week, I was approached through Etsy to make a themed set of prints for a customer. She was decorating a dental office and wanted some art for the office. You might recognize some of these prints in my shop already...she just changed the wording around. How fun would it be to go into a dentist office with funny art like this! If you are looking for some customized art, you can message me through my Etsy!

According to my iPhone

2012-01-25T06:00:00.001-07:00

Smiles are had by all, including Harrison! Olivia is learning more and more each day, including how to SHUSH me!

Here is a cute little video from today of Olivia loving the snow. I was totally unsure of how she would react knowing her mother (me) who doesn't really understand the joy snow brings to people.

Untitled from Diana Smith on Vimeo.

Buy 1 Get 1 Free!

2012-01-24T13:11:00.000-07:00

Livy Love Designs Shop

Typical Tuesday

2012-01-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

Rachel from Playing House does a weekly Segment called Typical Tuesday. She asked me to be apart of it and of course I took her up on the offer! Hope you enjoy a Typical Tuesday in the Smith Home.

I am Diana Smith! I am a blogger over at Livy Love. I have 2 kids, Olivia who is 18 months and Harrison who is almost 2 months. Yes, they are 16 months apart! Very busy, very crazy, and very fun!

8:28am I wake up abruptly to loud crying from Olivia. My husband, Daniel left work at 5 am. He usually works at 8am, but maybe once or twice a week he has to go in a little bit early. Both of my babies are amazing sleepers so waking up at this time is not a rare occasion! I realize how lucky I am!!

Olivia LOVES seeing Harrison first thing in the morning. Her favorite thing to do is kiss and hug him. Before breakfast, we play with toys and watch some cartoons. This is where I try and completely wake up after the morning rush! It all happens so quickly and sometimes I am not completely awake for it all.

Harrison gets a little fussy. I feed him, change his diaper and outfit and then he falls asleep about an hour later and rocks in his swing. He is a sweet darling boy. I couldn't have been any luckier.

Olivia watches her favorite show, Yo Gabba Gabba. It seriously entrances her. I sneak off and work on a few orders on my computer. I run a small etsy shop of graphic design prints. On this particular day, I have been itching to get my art wall done. One great perk about being a graphic designer is I can create any art I want. If I see something that I like, I can make something similar to it.

My wall on the left. Then I come back and Olivia is still watching shows while Harrison still naps. I decide to clean up the toys and the living room.

I vacuum while Olivia has some lunch. Harrison is still napping away!!

I take a little break from cleaning and check up on my phone (email, twitter, instagram, weather) I thought about taking a little walk, but its pretty freezing here in Utah. Still no snow and this California girl is quite grateful for that!!

Olivia finishes up her lunch. She takes a nap maybe 3x a week. I don't really enforce it since having Harrison because they both require so much of my attention. She needs to be rocked to sleep and sometimes I can't because Harrison is awake. Luckily though, she wanted one and he was still asleep. Once she fell asleep, he woke up! Isn't that how it always works? Oh the irony!

I feed him and change his diaper. He just hangs out on my lap! Such a good baby.

Daniel and I were asked to speak in church on Sunday so I go over the topic and start to think about how I want to approach the topic. Harrison still snuggles me and just is happy as a clam.

Olivia wakes up from her hour nap. Daniel comes home from work. It's about 4pm. He catches up on some reading for his classes. He has class Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30-8:45. We were lucky he was able to come home before work. Sometimes he has to rush off to school. Those are rough days being the only one home with the kids all day. Plus I know it's sad when he can't see them.

He leaves for class. Harrison takes another nap in his swing. I feed dinner to Olivia. I didn't take a picture, whoops! I bathe her and we brush our teeth and get ready for bed. She usually goes to bed around 8. Harrison goes to bed around 10. Then I usually stay up and finish any work I have on the computer or watch TV (Teen mom on this particular night)

We are super busy and always on the go! There is always a diaper to change, a mouth to feed, a boo boo to kiss and a hug to give. It really is so much fun being these two sweet babies mom. I am so lucky to raise them and call them mine. I can't imagine a life without my wonderful sweet family and don't know what I did to have them in my life. As mundane as this is, this is our daily routine and I am glad I get to share this all with you!

Little Brother

2012-01-21T12:40:00.001-07:00

This little guy is sure sweet. The other night he slept from 10 pm to 8 am. Didn't wake up once! I have no idea how I got so lucky, but I think his birth weight (10lbs 3 oz) has something to do with him sleeping all night. He is such an awesome sleeper. He sleeps for about 6 hour stretches usually and wakes to just eat once or twice a night.

He is modeling my mustache magnets, even though they aren't meant to wear. Silly guy.

My art wall

2012-01-17T23:19:00.000-07:00

I am almost done with my art wall. All I need is for Harrison to be 4 months old to do his baby silhouette (like the one of Olivia at 4 months) and then I will be done! All but 1 of these prints were designed by me. Can you guess which one I didn't do?

The I am a Child of God one.

I always make art that I would most definitely want to hang in my home. Here is living proof.

I have been a busy bee in my shop. Want to see some of my latest prints? Well I will show you anyways :)

You are my Happily Ever After

Don't Worry Be Happy

Peacock Art

There's no place like Home

Also, Valentines Day is coming up!!

I made a classic Keep Calm print in celebration

Naughty 18 month old

2012-01-14T10:22:00.000-07:00

Don't let this picture fool you! She sure looks super happy, sweet,cute, loving! All of it! I agree
But lately, not so nice Olivia comes out and plays (seen below)

She hit her brother with a DVD case this morning!! Poor guy! And he is sick as it is (vomitting). At 18 months (which she will be at the end of this month), it is hard to tell her no or that was not ok. She just doesn't get it yet. Its a learning curve for us all.

Anywho, I just started selling button pins and magnets in my shop!! Take a look, hope ya like!

Happy Birthday to Daniel!

2012-01-11T21:25:00.000-07:00

Daniel turned 26 today!! He was able to take a half day at work and we were able to spend some fun time together!! We went to the petting zoo at Thanksgiving pointe just north of us. It was pretty freezing cold and we were the only ones there but we really had so much fun. Olivia adores animals and was calling all the animals babies. She would talk in really high pitched voices and stoop to their level and talk baby talk. ADORABLE! Then we went home, napped (wonderful) and then went to Texas Roadhouse to eat. Daniel is starting the HCG diet tomorrow so this was his last big meal. He is really determined to lose weight!

Right before we left for the petting zoo. She had her lunch all over her face!

Talking to the sheep

She got to ride a pony and needless to say, HATED IT! She loved talking to them from a distance but once she got close, it was not a friendly sight.

We had so much fun! Since we have all been super busy and will be until this semester is over, it was nice to be with each other and just laugh our heads off. Happy Birthday Daniel! Hope 26 is a great one.

NEW! Charm Necklaces

2012-01-07T13:38:00.000-07:00

Hey Everyone! New product just in! Charm necklaces of all my designs and then some. I am selling them for only $9! You can view them all here. If you don't see any you like, you can customize your own design for just $12! Hope you like!!

Happiness

2012-01-06T15:15:00.000-07:00

I came into the kids' room to see this! Doesn't this just put a smile on your face? Olivia could not love her little brother anymore! I hope that lasts a veryyyy long time. And man, this kid has so much hair. It's the same color as Olivia's when she was a baby so he will probably be a blondie. He will fit right in!

Juicing

2012-01-04T22:06:00.000-07:00

For Christmas, I got Daniel a juicer. We had casually talked about how we wanted to start juicing and thought it would be healthy since neither one of us eats nearly the amount of fruit and veg that we should be. Well, its been super awesome because we eat lots of yummy healthy foods and it still tastes really great. Usually I replace a meal with a 24 oz. juice that I have made. This meal it usually breakfast, if both kids are behaving and I can step away to cut up produce.

I always put in about a cup of Spinach because its super healthy for you. Then usually some carrots, oranges, apples, pears, honeydew, you name it! My favorite is apples and oranges. They are really tasty fruits.

Just juicing away! I bought our juicer off Amazon for only $30! I saw it at Wal Mart for the same price too. I went with a cheap one just in case we stopped juicing or that it wasn't that good. Then I won't feel as bad since some of them can get in the $100's.

Towards the end I put about 5 ounces of water in because I kinda like to mellow out all the strong flavors. This is my juice from this morning. I put all the fruit in the first picture in it. My bottle is 28 oz, so I would say thats awesome!

If you have questions, let me know. You can ask me on Twitter (@livylovedesigns)

kiddos

2012-01-03T22:35:00.000-07:00

Most people, when they see since I have had Harrison will ask How are you feeling followed up with How is Olivia taking it all?

Before I had him, I was SO scared about the whole her not thinking I love her as much as I love the new baby and wondering why he was here and all that. I am so lucky because its been quite opposite. She has embraced him more than I could have ever imagined. She kisses him at least every hour and talks him to him very high pitched in just jibberish. The more he grows and develops, the more excited I get because I can tell she is so excited to have someone to play with that isn't mom or dad.

I sure hope they play together, they're only 16 months apart!

4 weeks old

2012-01-01T23:23:00.000-07:00

It's pretty sad how with your first child, you pretty much document their whole life with pictures, videos, and notes to them. Well, our second hasn't gotten that same attention and I feel pretty bad. I mean I have a couple dozen Instagrams of him, but not much from our real camera. Today after church, I told Daniel we should take some pictures of us 4. We quickly snapped a few while we each shivered from cold weather. It was worth it.

It looks like Harrison is struggling for air, but I promise you, the first few weeks there really isn't many comfortable positions for a newborn since they can't hold themselves up. See he even gave me a thumbs up in the second picture to let me know air supply was ok! We are all very happy, VERY busy and just loving one another. Olivia loves Harrison so much it hurts...literally! She is always giving him unasked for kisses which makes her stumble and fall, usually startling him. It's cute, but we'll have to learn some way to give gentle kisses. Happy New Year to you all!

New Years Resolutions for 2012

2011-12-30T00:17:00.002-07:00

Harrison's Announcement

2011-12-26T22:01:00.000-07:00

I made these for our family and friends this week. Word to the wise: Don't get baby announcements printed out the week of Christmas because everyone is trying to print out Christmas cards for their loved ones. We waited at Costco for like 30 mins to just get to a computer to get them printed. Then we had to wait 2 hours for them to be done! I guess thats what comes with a December baby. I should know, I am one!

We are still happy and loving our boy! Everyday he just feels more and more like he has been here forever. He sleeps all night just wanting to eat about every 4 hours. I call him my angel baby. I am holding my breath, seeing how long this will last.

SALE SALE SALE

2011-12-15T23:14:00.000-07:00

Its my birthday this coming Sunday...I thought a great way to celebrate is have a 20% off sale in my shop! ALL orders ALL weekend!

These cute prints are my state prints which come in all sizes! Place a heart over your city. These make great inexpensive Christmas presents and now you can get them for 20% off! 5x7 is $10 and 8x10 is $15!

All Home Safe and Sound

2011-12-13T21:20:00.000-07:00

Well I guess I am obligated to tell the birth story of Harrison. Not too exciting since it was all planned, but I can tell you a few things that led up to his arrival. During my entire pregnancy, he was always measuring 2-4 weeks ahead. Since I was already planning on having a C-section, this didn't really matter since I wouldn't be pushing him out. Bummer for me! By week 37, I was measuring 40 weeks and pretty much so uncomfortable. I couldn't bear thinking of going to 40 weeks! I begged my doctor at each visit to take him early, but he didn't see any real medical need. He finally offered that I do an amniocenthesis. This is where they stick a needle in your stomach, draw out fluid and then test it to see if the babies lungs are developed. At first I was terrified of this idea. I didn't want a needle going in my stomach! Then I started to get more and more desperate and just decided what the heck. The next week, we went in and they did it. It wasn't that painful. Kinda felt like a mild epidural where they are putting pressure on you. That night we thought we were going to go in and deliver this baby. I get a call from my doctor saying his lungs are not quite developed. I was shocked! At 38 weeks you'd think they would be. Frustrated and annoyed, I carried on and went to a follow up appt 2 days later. During this entire time, we had scheduled Dec 5 to be the day I go in to have him. At my appointment, my doctor offered to just take him Sunday instead of Monday. Now if you have been pregnant, one whole day is a life time in pregnancy terms. I happily obliged! We went in Sunday morning, got my IV, got my spinal, and met our baby boy at 9:34 am! Seriously, the easiest birth ever haha. We all placed bets that he would be in the 9 lbs range. When they pulled him out of me the doctor was joking that he was atleast 10lbs. I was like oh my goodness, really?! They weighed him and sure enough, 10lbs 3 oz! Olivia was 9lbs 3 oz so IF I have anymore, we joke its going to be 11lbs 3 oz...NOT HAPPENING! I have recovered sooooo much faster than I did with Olivia. I was up and walking by day 3 and have felt pretty great since.

Harrison is a pretty good baby. He whines a whole lot! Not really cry...its weird. Its true that every child is so different. He sleeps pretty good too! The only thing is he wants to be positioned perfectly, so that might mean your arm will be asleep or you are uncomfortable, but at least he is sleeping! I am not going to lie, 2 kids is a whole lot harder than 1. We had no idea how good we had it with just Olivia. We are having to get used to carrying, feeding, soothing a baby when Olivia could do so much on her own. Although, they are only 16 months apart, its a big change! We also think we are done after this haha I know I am young and have a lot of years left in me, but 2 is a good number :)

Welcoming Harrison

2011-12-06T20:06:00.001-07:00

Harrison Daniel Smith was born Sunday December 4th at 9:34 am. He was born at 10lbs 3oz 21.5 inches long. He has lots of hair and is loving to be held!! I'm recovering well from the c section and Olivia is great at being a sister already!!

39 weeks

2011-12-03T00:23:00.001-07:00

So sorry I haven't updated my blog in forever! I don't have any real decent excuse either. But I will let you know that I am still pregnant, but am having a c section Sunday morning. I'm thrilled and nervous at the same time! I'm ready to meet this little boy. Below is a picture of me at 39 weeks.

I have been super busy with my shop which has been such a blessing and it's been taking my mind off this pregnancy. I created this print for christmas, comes in green and red, 8x10 for $10!

Well I'll try and post pictures of baby boy ASAP! Wish me luck!

38 weeks

2011-11-24T21:30:00.000-07:00

Today I am 38 weeks pregnant!! In case you wanted to see how huge I am, here you go:

And this was before thanksgiving dinner...

I may or may not be having the baby this next week, but be on the lookout! I will try and post from the hospital. I don't know though, being a mom of 2 is pretty busy from what I have heard!

Also, I am having a HUGE black friday sale in my shop! 50 % off any order!! Get some Christmas presents now on the cheap!

Huge Livy Love print sale!

2011-11-12T23:40:00.001-07:00

I am having a huge sale right now with my discontinued prints...meaning I no longer really sale them anymore! The print has already been printed out and those are the exact colors...thats why they are going for so cheap is because they cannot be customized. If you want a print...you can comment here with your paypal address and I will send you an invoice or you can email me dianawinksmith at gmail dot com. Once a print has been sold out, I will mark that on here so there is no confusion! I have about 50 more prints to add to this so be on the lookout! Shipping is $2.00 dollars

36 weeks

2011-11-12T06:00:00.001-07:00

Guys, I am almost full term! Do you know how exciting that is? It means I could almost have the baby any day and he would be healthy and ready to join this world! Sorry if you follow me on twitter, these photos are redundant. Its weird to think that in less than a month we will have 2 kids! 2!! Bring it on world.

35 Week Ultrasound

2011-11-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

I have an ultrasound every week and this particular week, the tech was kind enough to do a quick 3-D shot on baby's face! He is growing amazingly...last we checked 2 weeks ago he was measuring 3 weeks ahead and BOY, do I feel it! He has cute chubby cheeks, hair and he even yawned during the ultrasound. It was pretty cute. I am in love with him already and its even more amazing because he looks soooo much like Olivia when she was first born! We are ready for you baby boy!

My girl

2011-11-09T23:56:00.000-07:00

This last month of pregnancy is becoming very bittersweet. While I am extremely anxious to have this baby out of me and start raising our son, I am a little sad. I realize now that from then on, we will always be a family of 4. Never will I have quiet mornings with Olivia and I or just be able to rock her to sleep without any interruptions. I love my girly girl and its going to take some adjusting with the new one!

We went to the little park near our house and she LOVED the swing.

She loves peanut butter!

Tonight at dinner, she was acting all prim and proper for the camera. It has been so fun being the mom to one girl, but I am so looking forward to a boy and having little munchkins run around!

Lastly, I have been very busy designing in my shop!

Great print set to hang in your bathroom! Next weekend, I will be at Bijou Market for all you locals!

Pregnancy and stuff....as usual

2011-10-30T22:10:00.000-06:00

Well hello there! It's been a while! Sorry, I have been putting blogging on the back burner. Hope everyone is having a happy Halloween weekend. This past week was pretty busy. I had 3 doctor appointments. 2 for me and 1 for Olivia. That's pretty much all I do these days. Friday was Olivia's 15 month appt and she looked so cute

I put her in a jacket that I bought when she was 3 months old that I have been dying for her to wear until now!

On the way home from the doctors appointment she was out like a light. She didn't really handle the shots very well. She was pretty traumetized moments after when usually all she needs is a good cry and then carries on. She is getting more molars so sometimes she has woken up in the night randomly, poor thing.

Me on the other hand...well I am just huge! At my doctors appointment last Tuesday, they were measuring him and he is currently measuring 37 weeks! I was only 33 at the time. I knew something was up because I feel so much bigger right now than I did with Olivia. They won't change my due date and since I am planning on having a C-section already, there really is no threat to my body to keep him as long as possible. Cruel doctors! I am hoping that when I am 40 weeks and measuring 46 weeks, they will feel sorry for me. Probably won't though.

Last weekend, we went to our friend's birthday party! Olivia dressed up as a fairy. She was pretty darn cute. That weekend I also participated in Spark. It was great and really nicely decorated! Here was my display.

Speaking of my prints, I have a bunch that I would like to discount, already printed out, that I just don't want or sell anymore. If you are interested, please let me know and I will create a blog with those. I am thinking really cheap like $3, $5, $8 cheap! They would be great christmas presents!!

Also, I made this computer case back in May for my MacBook Pro 13'' and I don't need it. Never actually used it either, but just want to get rid of it. $15??? any takers? You can email me if so!
dianawinksmith at gmail dot com

NEW: Custom State Prints

2011-10-19T14:56:00.000-06:00

Do you want to hang your favorite state in your home? Place a heart over your favorite city with your favorite colors!! Only $15 for an 8 x 10. Great Christmas Gift! Email me for a request! dianawinksmith at gmail dot com.

32 weeks

2011-10-13T15:31:00.001-06:00

I am officially 32 weeks pregnant today! I am fatigued and drained most of the time, but I can see the light at the end of the tunnel.

Yesterday, I had a rather ambitious goal of making Olivia a skirt. By 10 am I had whipped up this:

No pattern, just had a scrap of fabric that I thought was cute!

With me being pregnant and all, we don't do a whole lot since thinking about it exhausts me almost as much as doing it. haha I can't wait for that renewed energy once baby is here.

Halloween Printables

2011-10-11T14:13:00.000-06:00

Halloween is my favorite holiday! I decided to make you all some FREE printables that you can print out and hang up in your home for Halloween! Each print is 8 x 10 and will open in Adobe Reader. HAPPY HAUNTINGS!

Pumpkin Printable

Bat Printable

Cat Printable

Girly Girl

2011-10-10T21:55:00.000-06:00

I LOVE my little girl and I loveeee being the mom to one! It makes me soooo excited to think about all the fun milestones that I get to be apart of in her life like getting her ears pierced, her first date, when she gets married...you know...stuff really far down the road! But what I am not looking forward to is the sassy girl. I know I had/have attitude at times and most girls do! But its really darn cute when I tell Olivia no, or take something away from her she just gives me this look like HOW DARE YOU! Not always is she giving me attitude, but I can see her in little eyes a huge personality! I am not sure I am ready for it, but too late!!

ABC Animals

2011-10-03T12:32:00.000-06:00

Looking for some great educational gifts for your little tot? New design from Livy Love:

Hang this print in your childs room for learning and decoration!!

Homemade Crib Bedding

2011-10-02T18:15:00.000-06:00

I really wanted to make my soon to be baby's crib bedding because 1, there are really overpriced and 2, I wanted to pick the fabric and find something that I REALLY liked. Well after much debate, I finally decided on Heather Bailey's fabric and got some thick batting. Pretty much that was it. It was a super simple project that took me (and my husband) only 2-3 hours to do. So if you are thinking of doing this for your baby, you should! Now all we need is just a baby to sleep in there! Only 2 months left!!!

NEWEST prints!!

2011-10-01T21:10:00.001-06:00

Despite my laziness for blogging, I have been busy designing still! If you haven't seen already, there are a few new designs in the shop!! Livy Love has recently started carrying 2012 Calendars!!

Also, I am going to start showing off the Holiday Card designs! If you are wanting holiday cards this year, I will have templates for you to choose from and I'll insert the picture of your family or whomever and send you the file for $15! Let me know if you are interested. I will start showing those towards the end of October!

A little update

2011-09-30T14:39:00.000-06:00

I have been miss horrible blogger lately. I apologize. It's been super busy around here and I just haven't had time or energy.

Well I'll update with Olivia: She is 14 months old. Walks everywhere, talks (nothing we can really understand), sleeps at least 12 hours a night and naps once a day, loves rocks and flash cards, really likes apple sauce and bath time! Her most favorite thing is watching Yo Gabba Gabba on the Ipad. She thinks its hers!

My turn: I am technically 30 weeks pregnant, but baby boy is measuring 32! Every check up I have, he gets bigger...I had to take that 3 hr glucose test (AWFUL) and luckily, I don't have gestational diabetes. I am due Dec 11, but I have a feeling he will come much sooner. They really are going to be 16 months apart (yikes!) Also, I get an ultrasound every month (long story) and 2 months ago, he had his legs closed but I wanted to make sure he was still a boy. This last time I asked the tech to make sure and well, YES He is still a boy!

Now Daniel: He is rarely home! School, work, school, work...repeat. I am a single mom during the week. Its not horrible, but since I am pregnant, it makes things much worse. He is liking his classes and is really enjoying all that he is learning in CAD. He is majoring in Technology Management with a minor in Drafting.

Well that's it for us!

Halloween Birthday Invites

2011-09-22T12:27:00.000-06:00

My really good friend McKinley is celebrating her little boy's birthday a couple of days before Halloween! She asked me to make some invitations for his special day. She wanted a green and dusty purple with Halloween inspired babies in costumes. This is what I came up with! Since she having a potluck, she wanted me to make some inserts where she would be assigning her guests what food to bring. These turned out great and we can't wait to celebrate his 1 year birthday!

28 Weeks Pregnant

2011-09-14T19:16:00.000-06:00

Sunday, I hit my 28 week mark. I am now in my 3rd trimester and have 3 months left (give or take a few days). This pregnancy is way different than my first. It has gone by much quicker (sometimes too quick), he kicks differently, and I ache in different places.

Olivia and I have been spending lots of quality time together. Daniel is in school in the evenings so we go most days hanging out together all day. He doesn't get home till 8:30 some evenings. Its actually been a lot easier than I thought just because I don't really have any other option. Thank goodness I am due with #2 when school is almost out.

I trimmed Olivia's bangs the other day. Her very first hair cut, if you count that. They were getting in her face and I just felt bad, she was always rubbing her eyes. I think she looks adorable!

Blog Friends

2011-09-13T20:02:00.000-06:00

Do you feel like since you started blogging you have strengthened your friendships with other bloggers? I sure have! We try and have little mommy dates too so we can all talk about marriage, pregnancy, babies...you know the fun stuff!

I try and get together with McKinley and Andrea at least once a month...sometimes more. I actually met these girls before my blogging days. Mckinley and I became friends through our ward at church and Andrea and I actually went to high school together!!

We could seriously spend hours chatting away if it weren't for our kiddos or husbands, but it's so much fun talking to one another about our experiences in life. Do you have friends like this? Hope so because it really is fun to have!

Carol's Homecoming

2011-09-11T18:56:00.002-06:00

My little sister went to homecoming this past weekend and here are her pictures of her all dolled up! She said she had a blast and wants to do it all over again haha. I did her hair and makeup as well as helped her pick out her dress! She looks beautiful!

2011-09-08T06:00:00.000-06:00

UPrinting.com is one of the printing companies online that offers club flyers, save the date, party invitations, flyer printing and announcements.

The winner of this giveaway will win 250 pc. Flyers that are 4.25" x 5.5" or 4" x 6" and 14pt Cardstock Gloss, Front Only Printing, nightclub flyer templates and business flyertemplates also available for download. 3 Business Days Turnaround, *Free Shipping

Restriction: Limited to US residents 18 yearsold and above only.

*Leave a comment below with your name and email in order to be entered.*

Optional entry: Like or follow UPrint on Facebook or Twitter.

Disclaimer: This giveaway is sponsored by UPrinting, no monetary compensation was given and I will receive a party flyer for hosting. For more information about flyers, please visit UPrinting.com

This giveaway closes September 15th and the winner will be chosen via random.org. Good Luck!

2011-09-07T06:00:00.000-06:00

I recently created some business cards for the adorable blogger and shop owner Johnna. She asked for the colors of red and turquoise and wanted a Russian doll included with some chevron stripe included. Here is what I came up with:

If you are in the market for some affordable business cards, please email me dianawinksmith at gmail dot com. Thanks, Johnna!

Update on the Nursery

2011-09-06T11:45:00.000-06:00

We made a trip to Ikea this last weekend to get some things for the nursery. I saw that pin of the Ikea spice racks used as book shelves in the nursery and thought how darling that was. So I had the intention of getting those, but when I saw them they were pretty tiny and these shelves worked much better. Even though the spice racks were only $3.99 each and these shelves were $9.99 each, I really liked that they were already painted white.

Here is the baby boy's crib. The fabric leaning on the edge is what I plan on making some bedding. It started out as being Olivia's new bedding, but I am having a lack of motivation and only want to make one, but haven't done yet because I feel like it's too girly. Thoughts?

Here is Olivia's crib on the other side. I love all the pink and I don't know If I want to take that away from her crib. haha

Also at Ikea, we got her an abacus. She will be counting in no time, right??

Looking Back

2011-08-31T22:44:00.001-06:00

I was looking at past pictures of Daniel and I from when we were dating. This picture was taken October 10, 2007, almost 4 years ago. I remember this day too. It was a Sunday afternoon and we decided to take a walk up the canyon near us. I remember after this picture was taken, I poured a little bit of water on Daniel to tease him and of course with Daniel he always has to get you back. He poured like half a water bottle on me! I got so mad! I walked halfway down the trail behind him cause I wanted him to feel bad. He did, we made up. You know how it goes haha

We were soooo young! Sometimes I wish we knew what we know now, but obviously that is what life is all about. On the other hand, I am glad we didn't know what we know now because life was so effortless. It was just us, in love, with small stresses. (like planning a wedding)

As easy as life was then, we have so much more now.

She is actually a girl....

2011-08-24T20:57:00.000-06:00

She kills me sometimes with her cuteness. I can't help it!

The other day, we were out and about running errands and this lady told me how cute my little guy was. This was the first time I had ever had that happen to me where someone confused Olivia for a boy. I just ignored it and let it go. Then a little bit later she said it again! I corrected her and she apologized. I told Daniel that she needs her ears pierced cause then she will never get mistaken for a boy. Since we found out she was a girl, Daniel has refused to let me pierce her ears until she is old enough to ask me. But after this happened, he was like ok fine! Now I am the one chickening out. How old did you pierce your little girls ears? I am still debating!

Reaction

2011-08-23T12:13:00.001-06:00

We talk about the baby boy coming all the time. Olivia has no idea she is going to be a big sister, but hearing from friends' stories and just imagining, this will be her reaction. I try and look on the bright side though and think at least she won't ever remember being an only child. Both Daniel and I have siblings and even though we wished as kids to be an only child at times, it really is much more fun! She is going to be such a great big sister though. She definitely has the personality of an oldest child.

We sure love our big girl!

Please forgive me...

2011-08-21T21:28:00.000-06:00

I hate not keeping up with my blog and these last few weeks I have done just that! I kept debating on whether to blog and actually thought maybe I should just stop!! But it is so much fun and I will keep trying to stay on top of this. Well I have been really busy. I never thought being pregnant with your second would be so difficult while tending your 1 year old. Should have thought about this before haha

We got Olivia a new crib and I am in love. I never really liked the one we originally bought her and since they are banning drop cribs, I thought why not. I am hoping to get another one for the baby boy.

We have been spending a lot of time with family and friends: swimming, family reunions, triple date nights, and just being lazy! Yes, Lazy!

When Craft Fairs Don't go as planned...

2011-08-15T23:19:00.000-06:00

Just a warning, this post is a rant, so if you don't like complaining, probably shouldn't read it because that's pretty much what I am about to do! :)

As a small business owner, a great way to get your company out there is local craft fairs. I have participated in several of these over the past year and have loved doing them. That is why I keep going back for more. I have met some fun people, learned about my business, and have gained customers!

This last weekend, I participated in Craft Lake City, held in Downtown SLC, Utah. My expectations were set really high for this event and maybe they were set too high. I was given all the information I needed before the actual day and communication between the event planners was awesome.

However, once the day arrived, I was pretty much let down for the following reasons:
I had to man my own booth from 2 pm - 9 pm.
Um, HI! I have a 1 year old and I am almost 6 months pregnant AND I don't want to stand in 90 degree weather. Plus it was really windy, so we had to keep running after our prints! :(

I have to provide my own way of exchanging transactions.
Rarely does anyone use cash these days and luckily I have a square, but it wasn't working properly so pretty much cash was my only way of doing this.
(every other craft fair I have done has provided both the above for me!)

It seemed like almost every person that came to the event was there to just window shop and only take advantage of the free entertainment. They didn't want to purchase so therefore I wasted lots of time. Yes, business cards were passed out, so I can't complain completely.

It cost me $60.00 to just rent a table from them to display my product. That is WAY more than any other show I have done and the other shows that I have participated in were more than just 7 hours...more like 2 days!

All in all, I was really disappointed with how the show was presented and maybe I should have known better, but I will definitely use better judgement when applying to craft fairs in the future.

Dancing Queen

2011-08-11T15:30:00.000-06:00

I am sure all you mother's out there can completely agree with me on how exciting it is to see your child learn and develop. Every new trait they learn, you squeal with happiness.

Lately, this week, Olivia is all about dancing. There is a reason those pictures are blurry. I was playing some music and she just started shaking her hips, clapping her hands and moving up and down. It's so adorable. Most of the stuff she dances to is commercials on TV. Who knew commercials were so entertaining?

I haven't really talked about my pregnancy for a while. It's going great. I am 23 weeks along and feel movement all the time. He is one happy guy in there. Too bad he only has about 3 months left!

Successful Nap time

2011-08-10T12:36:00.000-06:00

I would say nap time was quite successful today. Since I have Craft Lake City to get ready for this weekend, most of Olivia's nap times and when she goes to bed at night will be spent preparing for this amazing show. Today on the list of the things to do, design, print, and cut out new business cards for the show! So far I have done 250...I am planning on making 500...we will see if I reach my goal!

If you are in the Salt Lake area and want to come to the show this weekend, COME! Its really going to be amazing. Not because I am apart of it, but because there is going to be some serious talent there!

click on picture for more info

MIA

2011-08-09T11:16:00.000-06:00

so we are finally moved in and have been busy unpacking, painting, and just getting adjusted. I forgot how rough moving is especially with a 1 year old wanting to get into everything and me being pregnant. Since you are all so patient with me, I will show you some photos of our nursery and what we have been busy doing.

Here is our changing table that we have painted a mustard yellow. I am going to have both my babies in the same room and have yet to find any awesome nurseries on Pinterest with boy and girl themes. Hopefully I can find some.

Then in the actual nursery, we painted the walls white and then Daniel taped off chevron stripes in a robins egg blue color. It's all coming together very nicely!!!

Excuses, Excuses...

2011-08-04T14:51:00.000-06:00

So I normally like to blog everyday or at least 3 times a week. This week was the first in a really long time where I haven't done that. It was actually really nice taking a little break. I have a good excuse though, we are moving this weekend so I have been busy packing up our apartment and have been making it over to our new house painting the new nursery when I have the time. That, and we have been able to spend some nice family time together. Daniel just got put on salary at his job, which is nice, but work has been extra busy for him. Just today, he went to work at 4 am and got home around 2pm. I made him eat some donuts and then go to take a nap. I am sure he didn't mind. So when he is home, I try and stay off the computer so I can say that I actually got to talk to my husband today. I am really excited though to show you all the new nursery. Yes, I am going to put them in the same room so it's going to be a gender neutral color and not all pinkified!!

Olivia's 1st Birthday Party

2011-08-04T14:43:00.001-06:00

I am a little late in posting these pictures (almost a week), but I finally found some free time to show you all what a fun birthday Olivia had! So many of our friends and family showed up and it was cute to see Olivia now officially 1!

1 Year Old!

2011-07-29T08:17:00.000-06:00

1 year ago, after 17 hours of labor, I finally heard a little cry. It was the sweetest thing I had ever heard before. My little girl had entered our world and has made my life complete ever since!

Happy Birthday sweetheart! You have no idea what today is, but I want to make you feel special because I love you so much!

We are having a ....

2011-07-26T12:54:00.000-06:00

We are shocked and excited to have a boy! We joke that we have a great excuse to not have any more kids because we now will have 1 of each!!

New Recipe

2011-07-25T12:10:00.000-06:00

I really like to cook although time doesn't always permit. Sometimes its much easier to cook up hot pockets or go through the drive- thru. But eating healthy is important...this meal I came up with is semi-healthy. Has almost all food groups!

All we did was marinate some beef with soy sauce and sugar for a few hours and then cook in a frying pan. It was really tasty and extremely easy.

Tomorrow we find out if we are having a boy or girl! Let me know what you think!! I am curious!

1 year ago...

2011-07-21T11:58:00.000-06:00

1 year ago today was my due date with Olivia. I remember how much I wanted this day to happen. It came .... and then nothing happened. Then another day and another. Finally, 8 days later, I was induced and gave birth via Cesarean 3 minutes before midnight. That was one long,rough day! It's crazy how fast this year has gone. What's even crazier is that I am pregnant again!!!! 5 months pregnant! You'd think I am taking crazy pills...nope!

This picture was taken around my due date. I was miserable haha as much as the picture makes me look happy. It was hot, I was huge, my feet were the size of elephants and every other person who was pregnant was or had already had their baby! As challenging that was, and how hard I thought my life was, I am grateful she came when she did. Gave us one more week of being kid free haha

Custom Birth prints promo

2011-07-20T12:39:00.000-06:00

Are you looking for a great way to display you baby's name and birth information? or Are you looking for a great gift to give a new mom?

These come in any color, your choice! 8x 10 sized. Please see my shop to purchase!

Lazy Tuesday

2011-07-19T11:13:00.000-06:00

Can you tell that we have been so busy this morning? Oh you can't? Well yeah cause we haven't done anything except watch Between the Lions, I didn't know I was pregnant and Lingo! Quite exciting, I tell ya. Actually I enjoy these days the most because I can just spend the time I want with my little girl and have no time crunch's or rush in a quick nap!

Princess Milee Invites

2011-07-18T06:00:00.000-06:00

Leslie from Little Mookie messaged me asking for some invites for her little girls birthday next week! It was so fun to make bright girly invites since I love girly things!

Here is what I came up with:

Here they are printed out and cut:

Feel free to email me for invites for your next party!

HAPPY FRIDAY!

2011-07-15T11:09:00.000-06:00

Happy Friday! Hope you enjoy!

Chelsea's Baby Shower Invites

2011-07-13T14:13:00.000-06:00

Chelsea from Jason and Chelsea contacted me about making her some invitations for her upcoming baby shower. She first told me she liked damask, polka dots, black and white and pink! HOW FUN! Here is what I came up with...(information has been changed for privacy)

Here is what they look like printed out and cut! So cute, right? She also wanted some little thank you cards to attach to the party favors. Going along with the theme, I created these:

If you would like me to design you some invitations and send you a digital file, its very simple! Email me and we can talk! dianawinksmith at gmail.com. I charge $15 for the invite design and $5 for the cards.

Big Deal

2011-07-13T06:00:00.000-06:00

This might seem like a silly post, but to me, it's A BIG DEAL!

We finally bought a new bed. This is pretty embarrassing, but I 'inherited' my bed when we got married. The same bed that was brand new when I was maybe 14 years old...I am guessing that's how old I was. That is 8 years of having the same bed and sadly we just never prioritized getting a new one. It was always 'someday.' I keep looking at my new bed as I have been going through out my day...thinking how much I want to lay on its pillow top comfiness. This will be especially nice with my pregnancy! Can you tell I am so excited?

Also, I want to get to know my readers! I love meeting people and getting to know others. If you don't normally comment, I would love for you to. Tell me your name and what your blog is about. I would really love to read it!

Lunch Time

2011-07-12T11:13:00.002-06:00

Did you want to see what lunch time looked like in our house? Well, I thought so :)!

On the menu:

Cheese String

Pickles

Nectarines

I have hands down the most non pickiest eater baby! She will eat anything I feed her. I have even give her stuff I don't like (tomatoes) and she just doesn't mind!

Things we do during lunch:

Have staring contests

and

watch funny videos of ourselves

Well not quite...the first picture is classic Olivia. That is her curious face, which she is always making.

Another thing Olivia loves to do is watch videos that I have recorded of her. She cracks up laughing and if I try and take the phone away from her there are some serious meltdowns.

All in all, we have a great time and share lots of laughs and giggles. This girl loves food so of course she is going to be happy!

Olivia's Birthday Invites

2011-07-11T08:15:00.000-06:00

Last night, I finally buckled down and started designing. I finally came up with something I actually like! There were a few designs before this that just weren't hitting the mark!

I thought originally I was going to do something like Olivia's Garden...kinda like Olive Garden, but I didn't. I am playing off letters doing an Owl themed party since it starts with an 'O'. Clever! JK The address on the invites has been changed so even if you wanted to come crash the party...you couldn't! Sorry!

I also made some little thank you cards to attach to the party favors.

If you get an invite, you are one lucky duck! Olivia wanted you there herself. :)

The invites were so fun to make that I created a print

If you have a party and want some custom invites, send me a message! :)

Wondering and Remembering

2011-07-08T19:55:00.000-06:00

Remember when you were like 14 and you had all your baby names picked out, sometimes even middle names too. And you said you were going to have x amount of boys and x amount of girls like you could control that? Haha some of us still have these envisions (I do!) Before I had Olivia I wanted 4 boys, no girls. Now all I want is girls! Funny how things change!

Remember when you also used to think of what you're future children will look like? Often times I just have a huge realization that I am living the part of my life I always wished of having. I remember being that young teenage girl wishing for the perfect studly husband and the cute, well-mannered kids...everyone does this right? It's crazy to think that I am there now and I don't really know what else to dream about besides my life right now. Sure the trip to the Bahamas when we're both retired sounds very appealing, but it's really fun being a mom and a wife. It's definitely not the easiest thing in the world, but it really is the most rewarding job ever!

Wrestling Match

2011-07-06T20:20:00.000-06:00

Do any of you other mothers out there feel like changing diapers feels like a wrestling match? Sometimes I dread diaper changes just because I am lucky if I get it on correctly. Sometimes its quite comical how determined Olivia is to pull herself off her changing table. I tell her every time, just one more minute but she doesn't seem to listen. haha

I also love the fact my little girl was blessed with lots of hair! The more to play with.

Also, I am offering printables in my shop!

This print is $6.00 to print at home!

check it out here!

Giveaway Winner: Livy Love Print

2011-07-06T06:00:00.001-06:00

We have a winner of the Free Print from my shop Livy Love Designs.

Are you ready to find out if it's you?

It is....

Click on box to see her adorable blog

I appreciate everyone who entered. Thank you!!

Why I Blog.

2011-07-05T06:00:00.000-06:00

So more than once, I have thought WHY on earth do I even keep up my blog...It takes so much time, thought, effort and I am just going to compare my blog to someone else's? Do you ever feel that way? I really hope so, or I must be a little crazy if I spend so much time thinking about what to write about and if mean nasty comments will pop up because I "went too far.."

Then the reasons just came flooding to my mind on why I couldn't stop blogging:

1. I have been able to document most of our marriage on this blog. I started this 2.5 years ago while I was at my little office job thinking of something to fill my time because I was bored. Who knew?

2. I have met some REALLY cool people on and off the internet. I admire SOOOOOOO many of you other bloggers because honestly there are somedays when all I want to do is sleep all day and never wake up, but when I read your stories, your adventures, your trials, etc, I realize I am not the only one having a hard time at that moment and I hope that I can boost you up too!

Plus, I have been able to just chat it up and talk about girly stuff too! New friends are always good.

3. I have been able to share exciting fun news to my bloggy friends. Who then in return are just as excited for me as they would be if we were friends in real life. Does that sound weird? I wish I had all the money in the world and we could all travel to one place and just meet each other. Don't you?

4. So many new fun exciting opportunities have come my way and I wouldn't have known about without blogging. That alone has paid itself off because I have gained confidence in myself to not let my talents and ambitions take a back burner. I have realized I can be a great mom while enjoying my talents!

I really appreciate the comments, the tweets, the follows, the emails...ALL of it! It lets me know you care and I hope I have done that in return! You're all the best!

PS I will announce the giveaway winner TONIGHT!!!

Swap Meet Up

2011-07-04T06:00:00.000-06:00

Well everyone, I AM FINALLY blogging about the Swap Meet Up and you have probably already seen these pictures, but that's ok! I hope you have! Let me say, this Meet up was awesome! It was so fun and so many bloggers that I follow came whom I have never met and it was just like seeing a celebrity...know what I mean?

You know you are in Utah when 5 pregnant women show up, we talk about modest swim suits (Lime Ricki), newborn babies, we give each other a hard time for not wearing our G's, no cat fights during the Swap (which would have been fun to see) and just lots of laughs and delicious food! I had so much fun getting to know all these ladies and it makes me want to read their blogs even more!! I am already thinking of our next meet up...sewing party anyone?

The Blessed Weekend

2011-07-02T22:20:00.000-06:00

You might think we are always on the go and always have something fun planned to do together...Not true at all. Daniel has been MIA a lot because of work, but since it's a holiday weekend, we are squeezing every ounce of his time just in case we don't see him a lot next week. I am sure you other bloggers with families know exactly what I mean. Thinking about school starting next month with him taking evening classes gives me nightmares! You know what else does (good nightmares)...December when I have 2 KIDS! haha give me reassurance mama's! Anyways, lets not get ahead of ourselves.

Friday night, BBQ with Grandma Mary! (Daniel's mom)

Don't you just love a baby in a sleeper? It's the cutest thing next to a onesie with their yummy thighs hanging out!

Then the next day (Saturday) we went to Kneaders. If you live near one, GO! They have unlimited French Toast for $4.99! O.M.G. It is heavenly!

Even Miss O herself approves! (She eats just about everything!)

After Breakfast, we played together, napped, swam, got sunburned and then went to bed. You know what is awesome? I have my Daniel 2 more days before he goes back to work! Yahoo! Happy Fourth everyone!!!

Livy and me

2011-06-30T18:09:00.000-06:00

Daniel has been working long days so we play all day long together. Somedays it can be a bit overwhelming, but she always makes me happy. She has been learning how to tickle (probably cause I do it to her all the time) and she just laughs so hard every time I react. Little girls are just so precious.

Also, do you like my new blog design? I think I will let it stay around for a while! Thanks for letting me change it all the time!

Also, for the next few days, I am offering my I HEART YOU print for $5!!! That's a really good deal!

Giveaway: Livy Love print

2011-06-28T14:33:00.001-06:00

I just recently reached 100 sales in my Etsy shop and I am So excited! Thank you to all those who have purchased or referred me! I really appreciate it. So I am doing a giveaway! I have never given away one of my own prints on my own blog! Whoever wins, gets to pick their favorite print!

To enter, please tell me something unique that makes you happy. Mine is when my husband gets home from work early, unexpectedly. What a great surprise!

If you are wanting to feel lucky, there are more ways to enter, of course!

-Follow @livylovedesigns on Twitter

-Tweet about this giveaway!

You can use this tweet:

FREE print giveaway on @livylovedesigns blog! http://www.livylove.com/

-Follow my blog!

If you see something you like, I am offering a 20% off coupon right now in celebration!

Code: 100sales

Giveaway Ends July 5th

4 months

2011-06-26T16:42:00.000-06:00

It's so crazy this time around. My pregnancy is completely different with this baby than with Olivia. I feel SO pregnant already and I didn't feel this way until about 7 months with Olivia. My body is changing faster and this pregnancy is just flying by! I am so excited to have another baby, but I can wait.

Symptons:

Horrible backpain (this baby is growing towards my back)

heartburn

always tired

I really am into sweets, I love salty

We find out in a month what we are having. I am so excited to find out!

Sondre Lerche show

2011-06-23T21:24:00.000-06:00

So last night, Daniel and I went on a long awaited date night just the two of us! It was needed and it was our little anniversary present to us! I first got into Sondre Lerche like 4-5 years ago and then I remembered him again after his soundtrack from Dan in Real Life...BEST MOVIE EVER!

Below are iphone pics that I took. It was such a chill show and he was so warm and kind to everyone! We got home late, but it was fun! Ben Folds next month!!!

Swimming

2011-06-22T19:11:00.000-06:00

With the weather being so hot, we tend to visit my parents and go swimming. It takes a lot of work since Miss O only wants to be in the water for .45345 seconds, but we manage.

Tonight we are going to see Sondre Lerche sans child! This is a first for our life as parents....staying out late together without a child. I'm a little scared, but I know it will be worth it!

3 years

2011-06-21T14:16:00.001-06:00

This day could not come fast enough. We were engaged for close to 9 months and June 21, 2008 seemed like an eternity away. As it got closer, I was so excited, overwhelmed and honored. I was a very happy bride because I knew I was marrying Daniel and we really loved each other.

Happy 3 years to us! It's been great. 1 and 1/2 babies later we are still happy and in love!

awesome Monday

2011-06-20T12:50:00.000-06:00

As I told you guys before, I have been creating prints for GroopDealz.com. It's SO much fun! Here is the first printable that they have put on the website. Its on $3!!!

click on picture to view deal

AND then, I got Olivia this adorable dress today for $12!

I can't wait for her to wear it!

First Father's Day

2011-06-19T15:43:00.000-06:00

I think mothers get most of the credit for taking care of their children. We do a lot for our babies and we have very special nurturing qualities that fathers don't have. With that being said and since it is fathers day, I want to make a list of things that my husband Daniel does as a father.

From day 1, Daniel has worked outside of the home. Even though he needs to do this for us to live, I know how hard it is to not see Olivia all day. I would die if I couldnt be with my little girl all day.

When Olivia wakes up early mornings around 6 or 7, he is always SO wiling to get her and cuddle her back to sleep. He looks forward to this time with her and gladly let's me sleep a little longer.

No one in this world can make Olivia giggle and laugh the way Daniel can. It makes my heart melt to see them happily interacting with each other.

Each time we have found out that we are pregnant, I have usually freaked out and overreacted, but Daniel has always been there for me soooo excited to be a dad and then a dad again! It's really amazing to see.

We LOVE you Daniel! Happy Father's Day

Swap Meet up!

2011-06-16T06:00:00.000-06:00

Well the moment has come! Morgan, Liz, Ana, and I have teamed up and are putting together a swap meet up for you all. What is a swap meet up? Well, we are combining a swap meet and blog meet up all in one. We all have clothes, home decor, shoes, services that we can swap. And we all want someone else's stuff. There will be swimming, but of course you don't have to swim. It will be hot, so there is the option!

If you didn't come to our last blogger meet up and wanted to, now is your chance!! Plus, I will be there! 'nuff said! :)

If you do plan on coming and want to get the word out, please put this button on your blog!

If you have any questions, let me know! Dianawinksmith (a) gmail.com. Hope to see you there!

Bad Cravings

2011-06-14T21:48:00.000-06:00

Can you tell that I am pregnant?

Tonight I had cravings, but I couldn't decide what I wanted. I went to the grocery store looking for whatever I could get my hands on. Bad Diana, Bad!

I got this idea from my fellow pregnant blogger friend, Kara.

Busy Busy with a new job!

2011-06-12T21:35:00.000-06:00

So my blog has kinda been neglected. Oops! Sorry! Well I have been a little busy lately. I promise I have good excuses though and I won't be quitting my blog anytime soon. Olivia has gotten to an age where she needs me more, or I need to watch after what she puts in her mouth. She is already 10 months almost 11! The other reason is I got a job. This was very unexpected and not something I was looking for. Luckily, I don't have to work and can stay at home with Olivia. My new job is a Graphic Designer for Groopdealz.com. I just couldn't pass up this awesome opportunity. I get to work from home too, which is a huge blessing! Once they have sorted out their new website, I will be able to show you all the work that I have been doing for them. I love being creative and drawing so this is seriously something I am really excited to do. It's part time which is great and so that has been taking up most of my free time or lack there of. Some exciting things are coming up in our future that I can't yet talk about because they are still in the works, but I will let you know when they do happen! Sorry for no pictures! Been so busy!

Baby Names

2011-06-10T11:11:00.000-06:00

Last night before bed, Daniel and I decided on baby names for our next baby. We have a boy and girl name ready. Those names might change, but I think we pretty set. When I was pregnant with Olivia, I decided her name pretty soon after we found out she was a girl. Then I went back and forth between Olivia and another name. I just couldn't decide. Luckily, Daniel liked Olivia more so I didn't have to make the decision on my own.

Both names we have picked out are family names on Daniel and my side. I am hoping even more that it's a girl because I really like the name!

How did you pick out your children/future children's names?

PS: I put a bunch of prints on sale for $10.99 in my shop! You will have to check it out!

Have a great weekend!

Homemade Cinnamon Rolls

2011-06-09T06:00:00.000-06:00

Since I am pregnant, I have the right to fulfill my cravings at all hours of the day...right? Not! I try to be careful because most of my cravings involve 1000 calories and lots of chocolate. Yesterday morning, I had a very big craving of cinnamon rolls. It was meant to be, when I had all the ingredients and didn't need to run to the store.

The dough right before rising and Olivia whining at my feet.

She has put her binkie like that from the beginning. :)

My craving was satisfied and Daniel came home for lunch (rarely happens) so we were pretty happy!

If you want to try this recipe, you can find it here.

Love's of my life

2011-06-08T11:52:00.000-06:00

Before getting married and having children, I never knew you could love someone soooo much! I mean, yes I loved my family, but having your own family is so different. These pictures of these 2 people bring me so much happiness and have no idea what I would do without them in my life. I just can't imagine the love I will have for another baby. I know it's going to be SO much! I am excited and it's what makes life fun! This past week marked 4 years since Daniel and I's first date. We were babies!

Aug. 2007 the day we got engaged

It's amazing how much your life can change in 4 years, but still be the same! I still have my best friend beside me, enjoying the opportunities we have presented to us. Life is great!

At Home Gender Test Results

2011-06-03T12:06:00.000-06:00

With Olivia, I never took any tests before I found out she was a girl. I just didn't really think about it, plus I didn't find out I was pregnant until I was 2 months along...that's another story! So this time around, I have been extra excited to find out what I am having. I first saw my friend McKinley do a similar test at home and knew that I wanted to do that when I got pregnant again.

This simple little test that I bought off Amazon had soooo many positive reviews saying that it worked. Of course, it's only a 50/50 chance, but I still wanted to see.

Once the results came up, I saw PINK!

If this is true, I am soooo excited! I want another girl sooo bad! haha there is still a huge chance that I am having a boy, but I have already started getting my hopes up!!

I am only 13 weeks pregnant, and in about 6 weeks I will find out what I am actually having. Well, lets hope this test is right!

Onesie Dress Tutorial

2011-06-02T16:03:00.000-06:00

My office: Tour

2011-05-27T06:00:00.001-06:00

I wanted to show you all where I blog, design, send off packages, waste time...you get the idea. In my dreams, I will eventually have a room dedicated to me, but for now, I have a corner!

You might not believe it, but Daniel made my desk. We painted it white and I stenciled on a rose that I drew then we spray painted it red. Its a great pop of color!

As Daniel likes to call it, our 3rd car! My printer is pretty huge...but it needs to be!

And I was able to create Snarky Drea's business cards for her cute shop!

Winner: Business Cards

2011-05-25T20:32:00.000-06:00

the lovely Andrea won my business card giveaway! She will be using these cards for her awesome new etsy shop! You have to check it out. In case you didn't win and were interested in possible business cards to help promote your blog, shop, business...here are the prices listed below! Would love to hear from you!

Week 11

2011-05-24T21:45:00.000-06:00

We went to our first pre-natal appointment today and it was very surreal going back to the same doctors that I had with Olivia, but now Olivia is out and about playing and talking. The midwife I saw today was the nurse that was there at the hospital the night that Olivia was born. She also made me stay up until 3 am trying to nurse Olivia...yeah that's another story. But it was really fun to see her!

Thankfully, there is only 1 sac and 1 baby! I was afraid it would be twins. Don't ask me why, I just can't handle 3 babies right now, let alone 2!!

In honor of babies, I created this cute print for a baby boys room!

And Groop Dealz is featuring my 3 of my prints for 50% off for the next 24 hours!! Click the below link to check it out!

Groopdealz

Aquarium

2011-05-22T17:20:00.000-06:00

Saturday, we took a random trip up north about 20 miles to the aquarium near us! I think we enjoyed it more than Olivia. She just likes to stare at people haha

I had to use my iphone camera because I forgot the sd card in my camera...I do that all the time!

Well, it was sure fun! I couldn't imagine touching the sting ray, but Daniel did!

Then afterward, we went and got some frozen yogurt! YUMM! Did you know there was peanut butter fudge? I could seriously drink that stuff!

I think our little trip was so fun that we will try out the zoo next!

Random Awesome Fact: this is my 400th post! Woo

And I hope you don't forget to enter my business card giveaway! you have till Tuesday!

Rainy Day

2011-05-20T13:06:00.000-06:00

Remember in elementary school, how disappointing rainy days were? No outside recess! Well somehow that feeling has carried on in my adult life. Here in Utah, we have had rain consistently for a week now and its not going anywhere for a while. It sounds like most of the country is in the same predicament.

These days, we have been cooped up at home, watching project runway reruns and making silly faces at each other. It does sound like loads of fun, but going on day 7...come on sun! Please come out!

Despite the weather, she still seems pretty happy!

What's the weather like for you?

Giveaway: Business Cards

2011-05-18T19:50:00.000-06:00

Do you have a business, blog or shop that you would like to promote??

Business Cards are the PERFECT way to do that. In every order on my etsy shop, I include a business card. Whenever I go to Blog Meetups, I carry business cards. I also carry them with me, just in case I meet someone at the store or mall that happens to strike interest in what I do.

These are my current business cards that I designed and created myself.

I am offering one lucky winner 50 FREE business cards! The person that is chosen will get to decide on colors, design and what is said on their business card. This isn't one of those you print at home sort of deals, I will provide it all!

To enter this giveaway, you must follow my blog and comment saying what you would want to promote your business cards with!

Additional entries:

Follow me on twitter

Tweet about this giveaway

Blog about this giveaway

If you are interested in business cards and you don't win, I can provide them for you at a reasonable rate!

GOOD LUCK! Giveaway ends 5/25

evening stroll

2011-05-17T18:09:00.000-06:00

Since about 3 weeks ago, every night we take a walk, big or small around our neighborhood because its apart of Olivia's bedtime routine. The only reason we have kept this up for so long is because it actually works! It seems that if you blog about your baby, it gets jinxed, but lets just say she has been sleeping AMAZINGLY!!

So this was our little walk the other night, which we just went to a little park near our house!

If the pictures don't show it, she belly laughed the entire time on the swing! It was hilarious!

This picture makes me so happy!

Needless to say, it was a great walk and we got that munchkin to bed right away and didn't see her till 9am! Woo hoo beat that!

Adding Sleeves

2011-05-16T18:12:00.000-06:00

15% off

2011-05-15T21:35:00.000-06:00

I have been really busy getting ready for local craft fairs that I am super excited about!! There is one this next weekend in Lehi Utah called Tom and Lucy's Art Shoppe! I am super excited and then I have another one in October! I keep thinking of more ideas on how to properly display my art.

In celebration of these awesome things going on, I am offering 15% off ANY order in my shop!!

Nostalgia

2011-05-10T21:32:00.000-06:00

Lately, my childhood self keeps coming out and trying to lure me back to the days as a carefree kid. I can't help but be nostalgic of after school play dates, grocery shopping with mom, and most importantly no bills or responsibility. As I watch Olivia grow, I think of the life she has ahead of her. All of the nerve wrecking events, disappointment, triumphs, embarrassing moments... Amongst this all, I just want to be there for her and protect her so she never has anything bad happen. Then I realize she won't learn a thing and at times it might be hard, but it's the best thing for her.

Do you ever wish you were still a kid with worries as large as a pb&j?

Mothers Day...a day late

2011-05-09T12:10:00.000-06:00

Litte Miss Olivia Rose,

Thank you for picking me to be your mother. Thank you for wanting me to nurture, care for, love, laugh with, kiss you! You have made me become a better person since you have entered my life. You have given me a gift that no one else can give: being a mother.

Little Mister/Miss in my belly,

We are very excited for your arrival at the end of the year. Thank you for allowing me to be your mother. There is no greater joy on this earth.

Mother's have a divine role.

They are special.

I am honored to be apart of this group of amazing women!

I am grateful for my mother and the example she has taught me! She has always been there for me and continues to do so! I love you mommy!

SPEAKING of motherhood, I have a crying baby who just woke up! :)