House of Hatch

Tough Stuff

2012-01-27T21:26:00.000-08:00

I'm sorry my boy, but sometimes life can be a little rough.

But we still love you!

An Adventure

2012-01-27T20:40:00.000-08:00

We invite you to join us on our journey to retrieve the mail.

Now we have to warn you that it may not be easy...and could be a little dangerous. We will be climbing hills, exploring rock beds, searching for cars, stomping through puddles, and dodging mountains of dog poop.

And we have to look cool while doing it.

And even if we reach our mailbox destination in safety...it might be full of junk (like today).

But never fear my friends, we will do it again tomorrow.
And it will be worth it.

Three and Twenty Months

2012-01-22T22:22:00.000-08:00

Jack graduated to 23 months last Thursday. We will be celebrating his 2nd birthday in less then a month. I'm pretty sure someone took my life remote and pressed the fast forward button...and I beg whoever did so to please stop and press pause for at least a couple months.

One thing Jack enjoys nowadays:

Fruit.
And lots of it.

I love that he loves fruit. He lights up whenever he sees his yummy yellow banana for breakfast and grunts his approving "yes" when I ask if he'd like grapes for a snack. Now if I can only get him to love his veggies just as much. Yeah, it's a long shot.

One of his favorite movies is the Incredibles with Mr. Incredible, Elastigirl, Violet, Dash, and the illusive baby Jack-Jack (from whom his nickname was inspired).

He loves bath time and will stay in said bath until the bubbles are gone and his fingers are pruny. And then he insists on pulling the plug afterward and watching every last drop of water go down the drain...while he waves buh bye.

I have to tear him out of the little tikes-ish car attached to a grocery cart whenever we're done grocery shopping. He loves those things and I thank the inventor every time I spot one in the parking lot.

He is finally saying a bunch of words like: Gramma, Papa, bath, dog, and even bum. I also heard a new one today: iPod. Not a good sign.

He loves to go outside and get the mail...and then spends hours throwing every fallen leaf he finds on the sidewalk into the street.

He's as accident proned as his mother, but every time my sweet boy falls down he bounces right back up without complaint.

He dances like a rock star, which I have witnessed from Hatch-family-dance-parties that are held in our kitchen before dinner.

Well, that's just the tip of the iceberg on the boy named Jack, but you get the picture. His personality is showing more every day, and we love him to pieces for it.

My Last Day of Twenty Eleven.

2012-01-06T22:54:00.000-08:00

New Years Eve morning greeted me with a bawling baby boy, sitting in his high chair, who could not be consoled. Not even with food. And then I saw him grab his ear. The words "Ahhh, crap!! Not again." passed through my head as I dialed the number to his pediatricians office. They were closed for the holiday weekend. Awesome. Urgent care it is then. I've been lucky enough to avoid that place until now...so I knew it was going to be an experience.

I walk through the door to see quite a few people sitting in the waiting room. One guy was hacking up a lung in the corner. I walk up to the desk with Jack, trying really hard to avoid whatever the man in the corner has, when the nice receptionist greets me with a "Hi, how are you?" and a "Just to let you know the wait time to see the doctor is 1 1/2 to 2 hours." Well, at least she warned me right off the bat. So I filled-out the paperwork and paid the copay. Then after two hours worth of walks around the building and other desperate attempts to keep my child amused, the nurse came out and said the one thing I was so anxious to hear: Jack's name.

We were escorted to a room where his vitals were taken and we were told the doctor would be in shortly. YES! Finally what we were waiting for.

After another 10 minutes the doctor knocks and walks in.

"So what's the problem in here?" she says.

"Well, I'm pretty sure my son has an ear infection. He's had multiple this year, and he was showing symptoms of one this morning."

"OK, let's take a look."

I pick up Jack and hold him to me while she looks into his ears.

"Oh yeah" she says, "this one is pretty red. I'll go write up a prescription now."

And just like that, she was gone.
Not even five minutes with the doctor.

Needless to say, we got the antibiotics and I gave him his first of five doses that day. He had a very quiet New Years Eve night for resting. He's now fully recovered and as happy as ever.

But believe me when I tell you: I will never forget my first time in Urgent Care. And I'm praying I don't have to visit there again anytime soon.

Hatch Family Photos

2012-01-06T21:17:00.000-08:00

Back in November Annie from Annie Marie Photography took some photos of us for our Christmas card. She did a fantastic job! And since I can never choose a few, here are a bunch of photos that I love:

Looking for airplanes: a favorite pastime.

My boy loves his raisins.
It was the only thing that kept him sane.

She definitely captured us at our finest. :)

We had an awesome holiday season. Well, it was a whirlwind is what it was: yet so much fun. I wish we could still be wrapped up in the season, but alas reality always sets back into place. Reality is one thing that makes those times so special so I won't complain too much.

OK, I won't pretend that a ton of time hasn't passed as well as a bunch of Hatch family events. I do realize that I'm only hurting myself by not recording events, thoughts, and feelings of my family's journey, but I can only do so much.

So I'll try my best...and keep typing.

Photos For Fun

2011-10-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

Remember this outing?

Well, the main reason for going was to take photos of this guy:

What a cutie!

He reminds me so much of Jack when he was this age.

Easy going.

Curious.

Cute as a button.

His mom is very crafty and super creative.

In preparing for the photo shoot I asked her to bring a colorful blanket and any toys to keep baby L occupied while I snapped some shots.

She definitely delivered.

By-the-way, this wooden train was his dads from back when he was little.

I love his beautiful blue eyes in this photo.

Remember when I said this baby's mama was crafty?

Well, she made this blanket.

Yeah, I don't think I could ever do that.

Baby L: it was such a treat snapping a few photos of you. Thanks for being such a great subject, even when things didn't go quite right. You are such a trooper. Try not to grow up too fast, for your mommy's sake. :)

A New Favorite.

2011-10-26T23:01:00.000-07:00

Favorite TV show in the Hatch home:

It's all Bart's fault.

He was the one that got me hooked. There's just something about watching great shooters make amazing shots. Every time we finished an episode I would turn to Bart and say I wanted him to shoot just like that. I think getting me hooked on this show was his ploy to shoot more.

It totally worked.

We watched the final episode tonight and I'm super happy with the outcome. A wholehearted "Congrats!" goes to this man for demolishing every target he came up against (and winning the well earned $100K):

Dustin Ellermann

He's a self-taught shooter who happens to be a Christian camp director from a small town in Texas (I promise I'm not making this up). Very inspiring. It makes me feel like I can do anything.

Needless to say, we can't wait for season 4.
(or to see Kolby's blinding white teeth again)

A Family Outing

2011-10-23T23:04:00.000-07:00

I'll give you three guesses as to where we were last Saturday:

OK, so the last one doesn't really help, but you get the idea.

Altadena Park
10.15.2011

That's right, our little family took a visit to Altadena park to take photos of this cute boy:

but more on those photos later...

(don't worry Lauran, they're almost done!)

You know this park took me on a trip down memory lane, again. My elementary school, Gold Dust Elementary, was right next to this park....and we would walk here all the time. I also had a birthday party here. But to tell you the truth, it was getting a little too much love from kids (aka: worn down), even back in the day. So when I stepped onto the property with my baby boy, it seemed like a whole different park. They have a nice, new playground and a sweet looking splash pad. We'll have to make another trip back with it's hotter-than-hades outside.

The first thing Bart loved was the sand digging machines. I have never seen these before, but they looked really cool. You'd have to be coordinated to use them though, which counted me out. Jack seemed to approve.

And then Jack had to take a ride on this bad boy:

If it has four wheels, Jack wants it. He's his daddy's boy.

Next we explored the splash pad. As of October 1st it had closed down until May. I guess they didn't get the memo that we'll still be enjoying 90 degree weather until the end of October.

Lucky us.

And then it was time to rest and drink some water. Oh yes, it was definitely over 90 degrees that day.

Pondering and playing are daily occurrences with Jack. He loves to stare (we're working on that) and think about what he's seeing. I'm always wondering what he's thinking about...I can't wait until he can actually tell me. Then I was able to snap these beauties before my other subject came:

Seriously, how did I get so lucky??

Not sure, but no complaints here.

We had such a fun time, especially visiting with an old high school buddy and his wonderful wife. And their cutie of course.

These are the times I cherish, and hope to be spoiled with many more just like them.

My History

2011-10-23T22:48:00.000-07:00

"History will be kind to me for I intend to write it."

-Sir Winston Churchill

This quote has really given me a more positive look on journal writing and blogging. I'm hoping to increase my amount of blog posts (do I really only have 13 posts for all of 2011??). I know you've heard this from me before, but I promise I'll really try this time. :)

So here's to writing your own history.
Make it good!

Splash Pad with Cousin D

2011-09-21T23:52:00.000-07:00

A little while ago (who am I kidding, it was a long while ago), I got a call from my sister-in-law who said they (meaning Bart's brother, their son, and herself) were going to be in our area and asked if we would like to meet up at the splash pad in Scottsdale Quarter so the kiddos could play. Of course we said yes.
And then I finally remembered my camera.

Cousin D took to the water a lot better than Jack. In fact, Jack wanted nothing to do with these circular fountains. D had a blast though:

And he was so cute when he walked up to me and showed me his "cheese" smile.
Dill: you are growing up way too fast! You look like your three in this photo!
(Note: D is only 2 1/2 months older than Jack, who was 18 months at this time)

Meanwhile, my little one decided walking around and observing everything around him would be a whole lot funner then the fountains. This is an activity Jack does on a daily basis, so I was not surprised when he chose to do this. Oh, and he didn't want to take a photo for me either.

Again, not surprised.

I was able to get photos of us with our busy boy. Unfortunately, this was during the time Bart was growing a mustache. Don't worry, the creeper 'stache is gone now.

And then a little girl accidentally ran into Jack. He unfortunately landed on his face and ended up with a bloody lip. We preceded to clean him up before heading over to Chipotle for dinner.

We ended up having a blast and hope we can hang out again soon!

Just Me and My Lonely Cookie.

2011-09-21T23:11:00.001-07:00

There's nothing like eating a Paradise Bakery cookie in bed at 11:00 pm while missing your hubby.

For all of you who don't know, Bart is now working as full-time security at the Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort at Gainey Ranch, while he finishes school. Tonight he is currently working the night shift (ie: 7 pm to 7 am).

We are both ecstatic that this job opportunity came up. And he absolutely loves working there. But I have to admit that at night...I get a little lonely...and a lot more worried. Hence my comfort cookie at so late an hour.

I'm sure I'll get used to it.

And thank goodness the weather has cooled down so I can start riding my bike to work again. I have no restraint when it comes to sweets.

A Value Photo Shoot

2011-08-20T13:43:00.000-07:00

These lovely ladies invited me to be the photographer for their "value photo shoot" this summer.

I felt so privileged to snap a few photos of these ladies.
I was able to capture a moment in their life where they could look and see what they wore, how they looked, and who they grew up with when they were teenagers.

I think that's what I love most about photography: capturing a moment in time that can be recalled at any point in life. That always makes me smile.

Here is a single shot of each girl who contributed in the photo shoot:

This is my oldest niece Kendra, who's turning 17 in December.
I. feel. old.

This is my other niece, Bailey. Who is now a beehive.

My last niece of the bunch: Shelby.
She was the initiator of the project.
(Thanks Shelbs!)

Thanks again ladies for letting me be your photographer!
I had so much fun, and I'd love to do it again. Anytime!

Tell me what you think: I'd love to hear feedback!

And if you know of anyone who would like photos taken: I would love to do it! :)

Time and Bubbles

2011-08-16T23:55:00.000-07:00

I love this boy.

He has completely stolen my heart, and I'm pretty sure he knows it.

I love spending time with him, especially during our routine walks around the neighborhood. Yes, we even brave the Arizona heat to keep this tradition alive (we just always have water with us).

On this particular walk I decided to bring the handy-dandy bubbles that Jack is so found of right now. At first he stands back, almost like he's afraid when I start to blow bubbles at him. But give Jack two minutes and then he snaps out of it.

Of course he insisted on opening the bottle himself, along with pulling out the wand. And yes, it was a huge sticky mess. He has become so independent (and dare I say stubborn) lately. I'm hoping it's just a phase, but when I tell my mother that same line she chuckles a little.

After a few hundred bubbles were blown, we decided to stop and enjoy the scenery...which lasted a lot longer for Mommy than Jack. This kid is always on-the-go.

This was definitely one of our better walks. In those brief 30 minutes I was able to reflect on all my blessings, including the rug rat who was constantly grabbing at my camera.

I truly do love my life. :)

I Heart Visitors

2011-06-25T23:59:00.000-07:00

This baby boy came to visit me yesterday.

He's a cuddler.

A super sweet cuddler.

I love cuddlers.

Especially since Jack won't be caught dead cuddling.

He's also the son of these proud parents.

It's so nice to welcome more couples into parenthood.

Especially the couples I know so well.

Did I mention he was super sweet?

Well he is...

Especially when he has someone moving and poking him every 30 seconds, and flashing a light in his face. And all he wanted to do was sleep.

And he's happy.

It's so good to have a happy baby.

Baby C:

Thanks for letting me hold you for such a long time last night...even though I made your face turn red because you laid on me for so long.

You brightened my night.

And filled our home with the newborn baby smell.
(I love that smell)

Come back anytime. Especially when your mom and dad look tired.

I would love to watch you. :)

Hello, my name is...

2011-06-20T20:27:00.000-07:00

Jack.

He is pretty much the best thing that has ever happened to Bart and I.

You know, life was pretty good with just the two of us...but when he came along...our lives became so much sweeter. We didn't know how much we were missing until he showed up and filled it with so many great things. Like:

His smiles.

His laughs.
The little giggles, and the deep belly laughs.
They are so contagious.

His discoveries.
Everything is an adventure.

His love for food.
(Just like mom.)

Birthday cake.

Daily banana for breakfast.

Pasta.

And that my dear friends, was a marshmellow Peep.

His energy levels.

His day only consists of this: WALKING. EVERYWHERE.
The kid is unstoppable.

His cuteness.

We love you baby boy, so much.
Life just isn't the same.

For My Bart.

2011-06-19T22:24:00.001-07:00

Happy Father's Day to the guy who has blessed my life the most!

Here are a few things I love most about Bart:

1. He's a great dad.
Jack's whole being lights up when his dad walks into the room. Bart is definitely the "fun" parent, but he can and will discipline when necessary.

2. He's strong.
He can literally lift anything. In all the years we have been married, I haven't seen one thing he couldn't lift. But he's strong in more ways than one. Life can make you feel small really quick, but the strong ones bounce back. Bart has bounced back so many times that I've lost track...and I believe his testimony of the gospel has helped him with that as well.

3. He makes life worth living.

A few weeks before Bart and I were married I remember standing outside of his parent's house, talking over what our future life would be like. Before we parted ways for the night Bart gave me a big hug and said: "Ashlee, the one thing you need to know about me is that I like to make life worth living." Not a day has gone by since then that I haven't heard him laugh or enjoy some part of his day. He finds the good in everything, no matter how inconsequential. He's a genuinely happy person.

4. He doesn't sweat the small stuff.
I am horrible at this...it's definitely one of my weaknesses.
When I tell him of some trifle that I'm freaking out about at the moment he always asks: "So what's the big deal?" (He says this in a much nicer way of course). Every time he points this out, I always stand back and think, "you know...I have no idea". And then it's forgotten. He can see the bigger picture and know that the small problematic stuff doesn't matter in the long run.

5. He has patience like Job.
Especially with me.
I can drive anyone crazy (even myself sometimes), and for the most part he just goes with it.

6. He's friendly.
Bart makes a friend wherever he goes. He will strike up a conversation with a stranger, and literally 20 minutes later, have their phone number and a date set for hanging out. It amazes me every time I see this happen. He is a very likable guy.

7. He supports me.
Every idea I pass by him I always get a positive answer. It seems like everyday I do this and he always shakes his head in support. For example:

Ashlee: "Hey Bart, what do you think about me starting a garden?"
Bart: "Do it babe, I think it's a great idea."

Ashlee: "Hey honey, I really want to take some photography classes."
Bart: "I definitely think you should. You take great pictures."

Ashlee: "Hey baby what do you think about me riding my bike to work?"

Bart: "That would be great, we need to get you ready for it."

Even in the crazy ideas:

Ash: "Hey Bart, I want to become a preschool teacher and teach out of our house."
Bart: "Sure, dear. Whatever you want...?"

8. He's handsome.
He's just as studly-looking as the day I first met him.
This is why our little boy is so dang cute.

9. He's a handy man.

It is so nice having a handy man around the house. He can fix anything and everything. If he's never fixed it before, he can usually figure it out in 10 minutes. He has taken apart multiple automobiles (numerous times)...fixed the problem...and put them back together again. This boggles my mind. He can whip out shelves, a wooden box, or shooting targets like nobody's business. It's amazing.

10. He's my match in every way.

Seriously, it's like we're complete opposites...but in a perfect way.

I'm always serious.
He's so light-hearted.

I hold grudges.
He forgets any wrong against him the next day.

I try to save all our money.
He tries to spend all our money.

I'm "detail-oriented" (aka: anal).
He's "go with the flow".

I'm book smart.
He's common sense smart.

I'm stubborn.
He can admit he's wrong.

I'm shy and not a people-person.
He makes a friend wherever he goes.

You get the jist. Everything that I lack, he makes up for and vice versa.
We are a perfect match...that clashes from time to time. :)

As you can see I am very grateful for my husband and how he made his way into my life.

Bart, I know sometimes I may not act like it, but in the words of Michael Buble:

You're every line.

You're every word.

You're my everything.

I love you babe.

A Mother and Her Belly

2011-04-28T21:25:00.001-07:00

This is Brittany.

She is a soon-to-be-mother.

This is Andy, her husband.

(Andy and I were in the same grade in high school. Bart and Andy were best friends growing up.)

Don't they make a cute couple?

I can already tell this baby is gonna be a cutie.

I had so much fun taking photos of this girl, and her beautiful belly. Such a pleasure to photograph...and I told her every chance I could get.

Britt:

Thanks for giving me the opportunity to document your first pregnancy. You are gonna love being a mom, and I know you're gonna be good at it. I can't wait to meet the little guy, and have him and Jack grow up together, just like their Daddies did. :)

Updates Soon.

2011-04-20T21:38:00.001-07:00

So this is Jack lately.

Doesn't he look so grown up?

I still can't get over it.

These wonderful photos were taken by my new neighbor, who I just found out is a professional photographer. I knew I liked him before (he has a sweet accent), but it was confirmed when he brought out his Nikon D700 at a neighborhood BBQ we attended last Sunday. We immediately spoke of photography and he gave me some tips and tricks. He's so kind to put up with my amateur questions.

Just the other day one of my dearest friends sent me an email asking for an update on my life...asking about events that happened long ago, that I never filled her in on.

What a good friend she is...

what I horrible friend I am.

Leanne, I hope to give you some updates on us soon...through the blog and the return email I have yet to finish. :) Remember you have to be patient with me.

Things to come:

Jack in the past few months, including:

birthday party

hospital trip

new eating habits

all around cuteness

"A-day-in-the-life" of Ashlee riding her bike to work

Photo session with my niece

Photo session with a beautiful soon-to-be mommy

I think that about covers it.

Becoming a Health Nut

2011-04-04T12:59:00.000-07:00

I've been into becoming "healthy" lately.

This comes as no surprise since I get into this phase quite often...but I'm hoping it sticks this time. For example:

Bart gave me this for my birthday:

Beautiful, isn't it?

I'm in love with it. It is now my only form of transportation for work. That's right, I ride this beauty everyday to and from work as my form of exercise. I only live about 5 miles away from my work, but still...for a couch potato like me...its a huge work-out.

I bought this book from Border's on Friday (half off, thank you very much):

And so far, I've learned a lot about how my body processes food...and how my appetite comes from chemicals in my brain. It's super interesting. What I love most is that it teaches me how to be and stay healthy (no gimmicks, crash diets, or amazing miracle pills) instead of saying "this is what you need to do...just trust us". You have to teach a man to fish, right?

Although I do trust Dr. Oz. He looks pretty healthy to me.

And lastly, I've actually been paying attention to those annoying Nutrition Facts on the back of food packages lately. You know, these pesky little things:

For the most part it's been depressing...learning that all the things I used to eat were quite bad for me. But once I got past the "I'm going to starve since NOTHING is good for me" stage, I was able to find great alternatives. Lots of fruits and veggies have come into my life, including an oh-so-yummy salad that I just ate today.

It included:

Spring Salad Mix (3 cups)

Half an Avacado (small to medium size)

Grilled chicken (with Costco's Sweet Mesquite seasoning) (half cup chopped)

Three Cheese Vinaigrette Dressing (from Fresh & Easy) (2 tbls)

It was 300 calories of pure heaven! And for how much I ate, it was a feast.

So I'm really hoping this phase sticks this time, so I can finally loose those last couple pounds of baby fat I can't seem to get rid of. And so I don't have to be so doctor dependent later in my life...because I hate going to the doctor.

Happy healthy eating my friends!

Dear Friend,

2011-02-02T21:21:00.001-08:00

Don't be horribly mad at me.

You know life, and sometimes it gets to me really good. But, I have finally finished your bridal shots. Here is a peek.

I'm finishing up "The-Day-Of" photos and then they will be shipped off to finally greet you and the hubs. I hope you like them. I had a lot of fun working on them.

-Ash

Howdy Y'all!

2011-01-28T20:26:00.000-08:00

So I'm planning Jack-Jack's first birthday party.

Theme:

Cowboy/Western

Colors:

Red

Brown

Outfit (for Jack):

Cowboy Hat

Cowboy Boots

Jeans

Games:

Horseshoes

"Pin the Tail on the Donkey"

Pinata

Decorations:

Balloons

Streamers

Gift Bags:

Bandana

Sheriff Star

Cowboy Candy (?)

I have only gotten this far because my great friend Bernadette has helped me...a lot (like 90% of these ideas were from her). But my dilemma??

I do not own a single piece of western/cowgirl clothing.

And since I'm encouraging everyone to dress up, then I better be. But where in the world can I find boots and a cowboy hat? And what kind of shirt?? Flannel? I know this sounds ridiculous.....but I'm in need of some help here. Western is completely out of my sphere.

Any suggestions?

Also, any tips/ideas to go along with the party theme would be greatly appreciated.

My Days

2011-01-10T19:53:00.000-08:00

"How we spend our days is, of course, how we spend our lives."

-Annie Dillard

Sometimes it's hard for me to remember that these individual days that go by, string together to make up my life.

For example: My Jack.

Day by day I have seen him sleep, play, roll over, scoot, crawl, stand, walk. String those together and I have an 11 month old boy who I can hardly keep up with now. I think about how fast he is growing up and these thoughts roll through my mind: did I spend enough quality time with him today? Does he know how much I love him? Does he know how much I love his daddy? Did he see me happy today?

Unfortunately....he hasn't seen this lately.

Sometimes I get caught up in the day-to-day routine that I don't enjoy the life around me. So, this next week I am going to try and enjoy my life and the things I do, instead of feeling guilty and frustrated about the things I don't do. Let's see how I do.

Sneak Peek

2010-12-04T20:47:00.000-08:00

Family pics today.

I was able to snatch this one before Bernadette took over as our photographer.

I can't get enough of this boy!!

More pics to come.

Favorite Christmas Things

2010-12-03T09:29:00.000-08:00

I love Christmas music.

I have listened to it for the 5th day in a row at work and I'm still loving it. The best place to listen to it on your computer: Pandora Radio...the Christmas station. Let's see if I still love it by December 25th. :)

The Season Starts

2010-12-01T21:58:00.000-08:00

I have 14 people on my Christmas list.

I must say that is a lot better than having 53...which is how many people are in my family plus 3. But I am proud to say that I, Ashlee Lynne Hatch, am more than half way done with my Christmas shopping. This would be no big deal for those of you who are not Bart (which I'm safe to say is everyone), since you have not seen the behind-the-scenes, Christmas time Ashlee, who procrastinates buying presents until a week-and-a-half before the big day and prays that everything she bought online will be shipped in time. It's quite nice getting it all done sooner than later. Did I mention it's only December 1st? Ahhh, so nice.

Now, as soon as all the presents are bought, I get to enjoy my absolute FAVORITE part of Christmas. Wrapping the presents. I love wrapping presents. All you have to do is look at my wrapping paper and curly ribbon collection to know that I love wrapping presents. That being said...if any of you need to wrap Christmas presents (or any presents in general) and dread doing it yourself...bring them over. I would love to wrap them for you. I'm getting giddy just thinking about all the wrapping I get to do. :)

And just because I hate posting without a picture, I have enclosed a more recent photo of my darling Jack-Jack, who is (I hate to say it) 9 months old.

How he got so big, I cannot tell you, but he sure is a cutie.

I Should Be...

2010-11-06T22:02:00.000-07:00

...preparing a lesson...washing dishes...sending an email...brushing my teeth...

but I'm posting pictures of my boy instead.

He is the best thing that's ever happened to us.

Change is Good

2010-09-21T20:56:00.000-07:00

Unfortunately I have a hard time adjusting to change, no matter how good it is for me.

For example: I was released from Young Woman in my ward.

You have no idea how sad I was that Sunday. I have been feeling awful these past couple of months because I haven't been the best Y.W. leader ever, due to lack of time in my day...and the whole "becoming a new mother" business. Mutual was last on my list when I would get home from work at 6:00 pm and still need to make dinner and spend time with Jack. So, needless to say I felt like a failure.

But, instead of throwing a pity party I have decided to turn over a new leaf and try my best at my new calling, which I will be starting on Sunday (spoiler alert for those in my ward!!):

Sunday School Teacher for the 12 /13 year olds.

I have to say I'm pretty excited. I get to teach some of the Y.W., of whom I am missing terribly, and I get to teach every Sunday (which was not the case in my last calling). As much as I'm stressing about teaching every week, I can't wait to get up there and actually start giving the lesson.

So, here's to change...may I embrace it with a smile.

Vacation Part I: Disneyland and California Adventure

2010-09-05T22:07:00.002-07:00

Bart and I love Disneyland. We have gone to Disneyland almost every year since we've been married. That being said, we really wanted to take Jack-Jack in order to share our obsession.

Bart was able to score a sweet deal at the Millennium Hotel in Los Angeles, so we went with our really good friends, Paul and Bernadette (P & B for short) and set out on a nice little vacation. Destination: Disneyland. P & B love Disneyland just as much as we do, so it made the trip even better. We spent a total of three days in California, two days at Disneyland and California Adventure, with a day at the beach in between. The only time I think Jack will ever see me act immature would be at Disneyland.

The Classic Picture

Jack and I mainly hung out together...he was so good in the stroller that sometimes I forgot he was there. I can already tell he's just as fascinated with Disneyland as I am.

This was Jack pretty much the whole time: looking around everywhere with a smile on his face.

We pretty much visited the following areas...and stayed there almost the whole time:

And I have to say, this was Jack's very first ride: pretty fitting.

About mid-afternoon Jack and I rested while Bart, Paul, and Bernadette rode Indiana Jones. We then stopped to watch one of the many Parades.

Bernadette and I...

...with a tired Jack

Unfortunately all of his naps only lasted 20 to 30 minutes max. The vacation was a little rough on his nap routine.

After the parade we high-tailed it over to New Orleans Square to visit the secret entrance to Club 33, Tiana from The Princess and the Frog, and dinner at the Blue Bayou. I have always wanted to eat there since my first day in Disneyland. The food was so good, I just wish it wasn't so expensive.

One of the many beautiful spots in Disneyland that you have to search for to discover (In New Orleans Square).

Jack at the Blue Bayou

And so we wrapped up Day One with more rides, food, and fun. We ended up leaving the park around 10:00 pm, which made our stay about 13 hours long.

Day Three of our vacation was spent in California Adventure and Disneyland.

I have to say I love Disneyland a lot more than California Adventure. Don't get me wrong, California Adventure is great, but the rides are too scary for me (I'm a wimp when it comes to amusement park rides). Somehow Bart was able to persuade Bernadette to ride California Screamin', without telling her they were going to be in the very front. She was such a trooper.

One thing I love about California Adventure is seeing all the different characters you can't find in Disneyland. For example:

After all our fun at California Adventure (including a terrifying experience on Tower of Terror for me) we went back to Disneyland for a couple more rides, dinner at the Hungry Bear, and ride around the park on the railroad.

Last picture in Disneyland in front of City Hall on Main Street.

We had such a fun time. So much so, that I wanted to buy a souvenir for Jack in remembrance of his first visit to Disneyland:

and you better believe I had his name embroidered on them

I just hope Jack will end up loving this place as much as his parents do.

Vacation Part II: The Beach

2010-09-05T21:29:00.000-07:00

To break up our Disneyland adventures, we decided to go to the Santa Monica beach. It was Jack-Jack's first time at the beach, and it didn't go quite as well as I was expecting. By this time, Jack was being a little grouchy (who could blame him, poor thing. His longest nap during the trip was probably 30 minutes long) and of course, the wind was making it really cold. But the views were really nice:

When we finally trekked ourselves to the perfect spot we were able to set-up the umbrella, chairs, and towels. I have to say, I loved the umbrella:

Once we finally got settled in, Jack decided he was hungry. Don't let the above picture fool you, he was not a happy camper. I had a stroke of genius right before our trip and decided to buy a portable bottle warmer to heat up Jack's bottles (which came in very handy). While I was trying to calm the angry baby down, Bart was able to walk back up to the Santa Monica Pier, find an outlet in the Arcade, and heat up a bottle for Jack. He came back down, Jack ate, and all was well again.

Bart was able to relax

While Jack and I bundled him up so we wouldn't freeze

(Don't you just love the boogery nose...)

I was able to get Jack asleep (until some random lady started screaming on the top of her lungs and woke him up), which only lasted approx 20 minutes. But in the end, Bart was able to play in the water, Jack was able to see the beach for the first time, and we did not get sunburned.

Pretty successful I'd say.

Please Forgive Me

2010-09-03T23:01:00.001-07:00

I did not mean to not blog for more than a month...it just happened.

Please enjoy some pictures of the Hatch Family Reunion at Bear Lake below and I'll try my best to post pictures of our Disneyland trip soon.

Just remember, I'm only human.

Thanks for understanding. :)

Bear Lake Trip

2010-09-03T22:09:00.000-07:00

I know, I know...I'm a huge slacker. But here are the pictures anyway:

(WARNING: Picture Overload)

My Jack-Jack on our first morning at the cabin

The Jack with numerous amounts of people including (but not limited to):

Mommy

Daddy

(cutest picture ever!!)

Gramma Hatch

Grampa Hatch

Great Grannie Hatch

Great Papa Tom

And then there was the devilishly handsome and equally as mischievious Brody

chillaxin' on the porch

Next came the Lake:

(PLEASE NOTE: Jack did not come to the lake since Gramma Hatch and Great Grannie graciously volunteered to watch him at the Cabin...and then he decided to be a little booger, which meant mommy got to cut her trip short.)

Dylan loved the sand and water...

...along with Avery...

...and Paigey

While Mason was trying to dig a hole to China

Bart enjoyed time with "the guys" and being on a boat.

And then our last night we were able to get all the kids in matching P.J.'s and then managed to take some pictures

We had such a fun time and it was nice to meet and see everyone again. Until next year!

Weekend Update

2010-07-26T06:41:00.000-07:00

We just came back from a family reunion on Bear Lake:

We had a lot of fun. I'll try to blog about it soon...I took lots of pictures! :)

Messy Business

2010-07-06T21:12:00.001-07:00

Guess who had rice cereal today:

Oh yeah, this boy did...and he loved it.

Mommy on the other hand did not enjoy it so much. Just look at the mess it created! How did this happen you might ask?

Well, it could've been when he constantly spit the cereal back out of his mouth after I quickly shoveled it in...which inevitably made rice cereal soup. Or how about when he would stick his hand in his mouth right after I fed him a spoonful and then take it out and wipe it over everything? Or maybe it was when he would grab the spoon with his cereal infested hands?

No, I'm pretty sure the mess happened when he grabbed the spoon from his mouth (after he chewed on it a couple of times of course), looked at the slobbery mess and thought it was interesting enough to eat, then tried to stick it back in his mouth...which then caused the rest of the rice cereal to go all over his face (since the spoon missed his mouth entirely).

Yeah, I think that's what caused the mess...

...but he looked so cute doing it!!

I guess that will make up for the bath I had to give him and the mess I cleaned up afterwards.

Patriotism at it's Best!

2010-07-05T10:58:00.000-07:00

Our July 4th consisted of:

Dressing in our country's colors (thanks Amy for Jack's cute tie!!)

Eating food with my family and visiting with my cousins.

And of course...

FIREWORKS!!

And this was Jack's expression through the whole thing:

And the grand finale...

...was amazing!

And lastly...to the troops out there who are fighting for our freedom and protection:

Thank you.

Hatch 4th Celebration

2010-07-05T06:52:00.001-07:00

(WARNING: lots of pictures ahead)

The Hatch Celebration with held on Saturday, July 3rd as a BBQ and swim party. After eating and finally getting Jack to take a nap, I was able to take pictures of the fun events:

Dylan, eating some yummy cantaloupe.

I couldn't get enough of this boy...he was so cute!

Brody was working on his chin-ups at the diving board.

And Paigey looks adorable doing whatever.

Hilary and Dylan were enjoying the pool

While Tom was making the best milkshakes ever!

Olivia came to play with all her friends...

and then the Jack man woke up.

He had fun eating (and spitting up).

He had fun by the pool.

He had fun with Daddy...

and Paigey...

...and Aunty Amy (she got him to laugh!!).

So we had a pretty fun day. The food was awesome and the company was even better. (We missed you, Papa Hatch!). I'm so glad I was able to take pictures again...because then I was able to catch this 4 1/2 month cutie at his finest:

Ahhh, I love my life. :)

Welcome to the Family

2010-07-04T08:04:00.000-07:00

We bought a new car!!!

Bart has been car shopping this past couple weeks and he was able to find this beauty as our next family car.

Does anyone know what it is??

That's right, a FORD FUSION. Bart is so happy to be driving a Ford again. Can you tell?

Thank you Saturn for your many years of service. You were my first car and I will never forget you. :)

My Favorite Subject

2010-07-04T07:53:00.000-07:00

I could take pictures of this boy all day long...

Pictures to come: an early 4th of July celebration with the Hatch Family.

Keep Believing

2010-07-01T20:26:00.000-07:00

How disappointing it is to see someone loose their faith in something. Especially when you still believe in that certain something...with all your heart.

I guess that's part of life: to keep believing in something that others have turned their back on.

What an interesting life this is...

But, in the end I will always keep believing in:

My family

Myself

My faith

And I'm really good with that.

It's Inevitable

2010-06-19T13:48:00.000-07:00

This is what happens after a long morning of grocery shopping with Momma:

Happy 4 months Jack-Jack. Momma loves you.

Cute Is What He Aims For...

2010-06-19T08:54:00.001-07:00

...and he pulls it off flawlessly. :)

Hatch Camp

2010-06-17T06:47:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we went camping with Bart's family up in Payson. It was nice to get away from demanding work and nagging chores...and the weather was beautiful during the day (night was a different story). And I finally made myself take pictures of as much as I could. Here they are. Enjoy!

Aunty Amy and Jack when we first arrived at camp. I was trying to heat up some milk for him while Amy was trying to calm him down.

The Sargers came camping with us too. Here he is in his own little tent.

We were able to bring some bikes up and ride them around the campground. It was so much fun, and Brody looked like a pro riding his new bike.

Unfortunately that's all the pictures I took the first day we were there. That night was freezing cold and I hardly slept. I was either awake, worrying about Jack freezing or asleep, dreaming that Jack was freezing. It was not a good night. So needless to say Bart and I were awake at 5:00 am (with many other members of our family) and sat by the nice, warm fire while I fed Jack-Jack.

Side note: After Jack eats he is the happiest boy in the world (who wouldn't be happy, right?) but what is so funny about Jack is that at this time all of his faces come out (and his tongue). For example:

And cousin Dylan was nice enough to let Jack where his hat...thanks Dylan!

By this time almost everyone was sitting by the fire...so I decided to take some more pictures of everyone, including:

Bart and Jack (again). This photo cracks me up...they have exactly the same look on their face.

Hilary, who finished reading Stephanie Meyer's new book.

Amy and sleepy Brody who wouldn't look at the camera for me.

Grandma Hatch and Paigey trying to get warm.

And this cute boy with his momma:

I love those squishy cheeks!

And then there were the early morning cooks...

Papa Roy and Shane "the creeper".

It went pretty well despite my lack of enthusiasm for camping. Hopefully we can go next year!

A Special Visit

2010-06-14T22:22:00.000-07:00

Sorry Leanna and Marc for not posting this sooner, but we loved seeing you two last month.

And here's Jack with his favorite doggie you gave him...

He couldn't be happier.

Jack wants to see you again so don't be strangers. :)

Thanks for everything!

Sleeping Beauties

2010-05-31T21:34:00.001-07:00

Daddy and Jack

Grandma Hatch and Jack

Jack makes sleeping look fun. He has me hooked, too.

Tummy Time

2010-05-31T21:08:00.000-07:00

It's about time I posted some recent pictures of Baby Jack. Here he is during tummy time...which doesn't last long since he can now roll over on his back. And I even caught him smiling (as much of a smile as I can get since he was on his tummy...this is not his favorite thing to do.)

He is doing great: sleeping well, eating well (just look at those chunky arms and cheeks), and progressing well.

I can't wait to see what he'll do next. :)

Ready to Roll.

2010-05-25T15:12:00.001-07:00

That's right...Jack rolled over today.

For the very first time.

Wow, my son is getting so big!!

Something I Need to Work On.

2010-05-13T14:42:00.000-07:00

"Let us realize that the privilege to work is a gift, that power to work is a blessing, that love of work is success."

-David O. McKay

I need a major attitude adjustment right now...becuase I don't feel this way. I can't wait for the day when I don't cringe just thinking about cleaning my apartment or dread getting up in the morning to go to work.

Before Bedtime.

2010-05-11T21:47:00.001-07:00

I'm grateful for my Jack-Jack: We had some singing time tonight before he want to bed. He smiled and cooed through the whole thing. It made me feel like a rock star.
I'm grateful for my husband: He has been house sitting for the past two days while Jack and I stayed at home. I missed him.
I'm grateful for my job: My pay is more commission based now, which makes me really nervous. But at least I have a way of supporting my family.
I'm grateful for my Heavenly Father: Lately, before going to bed I've been trying to think of things I am grateful for...I usually think of five things but I end up naming about 20. I can't believe how much my life has been truly blessed.

Baffled.

2010-05-05T13:27:00.001-07:00

Has it really been a month since I've blogged?

I wish that wasn't so, but life has been absolutely nuts...I don't even have time to grocery shop (just ask Bart, he will confirm it).

But ever since I've been back to work my days have consisted of the following:

Wake up
Wake Jack up to eat (he would sleep for 14 hours if I'd let him...sorry son, you've gotta eat.)
Get ready for work
Go to work
Pick up Jack from my mother or sister's house
Go home
Figure out what's for dinner
Eat
Feed Jack
Put Jack to bed

And then, after all of that is said and done, it's 9:00 at night and I'm pooped. How in the world am I supposed to go grocery shopping, pay bills, clean the apartment, prepare a lesson, and have me-time with only one hour in my day left.

All you working moms out there, how do you do it??

PLEASE, tell me your secret...I beg you.

Wow.

2010-04-09T09:30:00.000-07:00

Today Jack smiled.

Not just a half smile, a full toothless grin.

And it wasn't right before he fell asleep when he normally does...
it was while Bart was holding him, after his early morning nap.

Now I know how it feels to have my heart melt.

It was amazing.

I have such a cute boy!

All the Best.

We're Alive!!

2010-03-24T17:27:00.001-07:00

I know I have been a horrible blogger lately (although I have a pretty good excuse). But I promise, I will post more...eventually. For now, look at this.

Oh yeah, that's my precious little boy.

Thanks Jamie!! You did awesome...especially when Jack-Jack wouldn't fall asleep for you. :)

All the Best.

Jack Wayne Hatch

2010-02-22T04:50:00.001-08:00

February 19, 2010
4:56 pm
7 lbs 10 oz
19.5 in

He is such an angel. Birth story and more pictures to follow.

All the Best.

The Obession Continues.

2010-02-18T21:22:00.000-08:00

These beauties are for Jack. I'm so excited to start dressing him in Converse. Maybe he will have a love for these shoes as much as I do.

As for my doctor's appointment today: a tiny bit of progression, but not enough to induce (Bummer!). Here are my stats...

Dilated: 3 cm Effaced: 90%

Pretty crazy, huh?! My doctor is amazed at how effaced I am and thinks Jack will come within the next 5 days or so (I'm starting to believe him...these contractions are getting pretty intense!!). If by next Wednesday (2/24) Jack has decided not to come, then we will finally be able to schedule an inducement date. The latest my doctor will let me go is Monday, March 1st. I'll admit, I wasn't exactly thrilled to hear that piece of news, but hey...at least there is a date in sight (and hopefully we can schedule something sooner if he doesn't come on his own).

So there you have it. We are still patiently waiting our baby boy's arrival and can't wait to meet him.

All the Best.

I'll Admit It.

2010-02-17T20:04:00.000-08:00

My mom might beg to differ, but I can admit that I'm wrong. Need an example?

How about my whole entire pregnancy...

Ever since that positive pregnancy test, it seems like I have been wrong in every aspect.

First, I thought Jack-Jack would be a girl: that didn't happen (and I was really excited to use the name Lily Jane).

Second, I thought I wouldn't get stretch marks: oh man...I don't think there is a square inch on my butt that isn't covered in a stretch mark (excuse my bluntness).

Next, I thought for sure I would have Jack-Jack early. Yet here I am, still preggo with only two days left until my due date.

Lastly, if I haven't progressed this past week (like I think I haven't), I'm hoping my doc will set a date for inducing me (which of course, could be very wrong).

So yes, I can admit I'm wrong. And isn't it so funny that it takes me having a kid in order to confess it. Such is life. :)

My weekly doctor's appointment is tomorrow. Yep, at 9:30 am on Thursday, February 18th, my doctor will be deciding my fate. I'll let you know...maybe.

All the Best.

Inspiration from a Sunday Lesson.

2010-02-16T17:05:00.000-08:00

"People who have nothing to do are quickly tired of their own company."

--Jeremy Collier

Arrival

2010-02-16T13:59:00.000-08:00

No, not Jack-Jack, but something just as sweet...

Oh yeah, baby. I've been missing my Thin Mints these past months. Which gives me another reason why I'm glad Jack hasn't come yet...I can eat as many of these bad boys as I want...and not feel guilty. I can probably polish off my boxes before then. :)

Thank you, Girl Scouts!! You have made my day so much better.

All the Best!

Maintaining Status Quo.

2010-02-11T13:23:00.000-08:00

Well, I had my weekly doctor's appointment this morning. I was hoping to have progressed just one more step (as in dilated to 4 cm) in order for the doc to send me to the hospital.

But unfortunately I didn't progress at all...so I will not be seeing Jack-Jack today like I was hoping.

No worries, though! After the disappointed feeling left I had a lot to be happy for. Like:

My doctor is out of town this whole week. If I was induced today he would not be delivering my baby boy.

February 11th would be a weird birth date (no offense to all those who were born today).

I'm sleeping great and I currently have a burst of energy. I'm more mobile now than I was a week ago.

If Jack is born after Sunday he will be born in the year of the Tiger...same as me (for all you Chinese New Year followers).

We have more time to prepare for his arrival. We have all the major bases covered, but it would be nice to get all the little things figured out too.

So really, it's OK that he didn't come today. Besides, he really isn't due until the 20th...so I'll live. I just want him to be happy and healthy (and under 9 lbs!).

In other news, I finished a project for his room on Tuesday. Here are the results:

I fell in love with these wooden frames at Hobby Lobby (my new favorite place!) and thought they would look great in his room. Also, do you recognize the wooden blocks? They are from the photo shoot that Bernadette did for me...seen here. I was trying to figure out some way to display them, but it's kinda hard when you only have white walls to work with (side note: I can't wait to own a house so I can paint the walls!!!!). Anyways, thanks J.D. for giving me the idea and Bernadette for supplying the letters!!

All the Best.

Netflix Find

2010-02-05T20:47:00.000-08:00

LOVE this!!

Yet I'm always a sucker for the 18th century. In fact, sometimes I fantasize about wearing the super big dresses (It's my dirty little secret). If you love Jane Austen, you will love this TV series on BBC. Once again, thank you Netflix!

All the Best!

Tick Tock...

2010-02-04T11:55:00.000-08:00

Bart and I are pretty much counting down the days to when baby Jack will arrive...and it looks like he will arrive sooner than our sidebar countdown leads us to believe.

I had my first weekly appointment today and everything is still dandy. I lost a pound, which the nurse assured me was pretty normal since my appetite is dropping off to prepare for labor. That's fine with me...one less pound to shed when Jack is out. :)

Have I progressed, you ask? According to my nurse I have:

Dilated: 3 cm Effaced: 75%

She thinks a couple of good contractions and I'll be well on my way to the hospital. In fact, if I'm still progressing by my next appointment, my doctor is more than likely going to send me to the hospital to "get the ball rolling" (...but with my luck I will stop progressing this instant and go a week over my due date...).

I found out that Jack-Jack's head is down, which is a huge relief. I was also informed that he will probably be a good 7 - 7.5 lbs if he is born within the next week or so....so cross your fingers. I don't know if my body can handle a bigger baby than that.

So all is well with the Hatch family and baby boy. If you notice a drop off in postings it's probably a sign that our little one is here...or I just got really lazy. :)

All the Best!

An Uncontrollable Urge.

2010-02-02T14:11:00.000-08:00

I need to take pictures of something...now!

I don't care what it is, as long as I can be creative with it.

Although, I don't know how my body will be able to cope with a photoshoot. But again, I really don't care. I have an itchy trigger finger.

Just another reason why I want Jack-Jack to come soon. So I can have a subject when I have these urges.

And I hate posting without pictures!!!

So, any suggestions as to subjects or remarkable places for picture taking would be greatly appreciated.

All the Best.

Some Advice

2010-01-29T22:15:00.000-08:00

"Always read something that will make you look good if you die in the middle of it."

--P.J. O'Rourke

Jack-Jack Attack Update

2010-01-28T16:44:00.000-08:00

My last two-week appointment was today, and to celebrate the doctor decided to check my cervix to see how I was progressing. So how am I doing?

Dilated: 2 cm Effaced: 50%

That's right ladies and gentleman, I am well into the early stages of labor. Depending on how active I am, I really think I can crank this baby out of me at anytime. But that's just the inexperienced pregnant lady speaking...who knows when Jack-Jack is really gonna come.

Speaking of my activity level, I've been doing absolutely nothing lately. Last Saturday and Sunday I was having contractions pretty close together (not to mention the ligaments below my stomach were killing me) so I had to take it easy. Since then I've had to shorten my work day (only by two hours...no biggie) and live out my nights lying on our couch so baby Jack can stay in my belly and fully develop (I'm barely hitting 37 weeks on Saturday). Let's just say my new best bud is Netflix (which is streamed through our Xbox).

So that's my life in a nutshell...lazy but great. Everything is still excellent with the pregnancy, and I couldn't be happier. :)

All the Best.

P.S. I found stretch marks on my stomach and I'm trying to be positive about it. Key word: trying.

Inspiration for a Rainy Day

2010-01-21T07:14:00.000-08:00

"Good habits are developed in the workshop of our daily lives. It is not in the great moments of test and trial that character is built. That is only when it is displayed. The habits that direct our lives and form our character are fashioned in the often uneventful, commonplace routine of life. They are acquired by practice."

--Elder Delbert L. Stapley

Motherhood: Good for Your Soul.

2010-01-19T09:45:00.000-08:00

OK, you guys asked for them...

So here they are: pictures of me and baby Jack-Jack, taken by my wonderful friend Bernadette.

warning: shameless plug ahead.
Bernadette did an awesome job portraying the relationship between me and my little boy...and her ideas, poses, and props were amazing. And she was so patient with my cheesy smiles and always-blinking eyes. Her full name and contact info can be provided upon request :).

This pregnancy has been a great experience. Of course I say this when my sides aren't aching, Jack isn't kicking me in the ribs, I'm not waddling to the restroom for the 10th time in two hours, and I'm not worried about all the baby fat I'll have to loose when he's finally out of me. But really, being able to carry my child has been an eye-opener.

For those of you who don't know, I am the last of six kids in my family...and all through my life I've been known as the "Baby Brat". Needless to say, I have some selfish tendencies. And now all of you mothers out there are chuckling at me, because you know what kind of rude awakening I'm in for. Selfishness doesn't show up anywhere in the Mommy Gene...especially when you have a newborn crying at 2 am needing to eat. What a great way to cure my vice (and disguise the tedious process in the form of children whom I can't help but love).

Just some very brief thoughts on motherhood that were floating in my head. This doesn't even begin to cover everything else I'm thinking...but most of you would rather not know. :)

All the Best.

Recommendation

2010-01-16T10:17:00.001-08:00

I love "self-help" books. When you find me reading, (or listening to audio books...also my favorite) 95% of the time the book will try to help you in some sort of subject. So this book I'm about to recommend is no exception.

The book:

(image from: www.5lovelanguages.com)

How I heard of it: I was listening to a motivational speaker who specializes in the mortgage industry talk about how he "made it" (as in become super successful) in the mortgage world. I was prepared to hear the typical answers consisting of: "I worked 20 hour days" or "I didn't listen to the pessimists" or "I was persistent", etc. which are all well and good, but his real answer shocked me. He said the three sources that made him so successful was his religion, some organizational book, and lastly the The Five Love Languages. My thoughts: Really?! How in the world did a book about love languages (whatever they are) help you to become so successful in the mortgage industry?!?! So I asked for the book for Christmas (as an audio book, of course).

What it's about: Pretty much how to keep the love in your marriage alive. Gary Chapman, the author of said book, believes there are five ways (languages) someone can express love to their spouse. They are:

Quality Time
Words of Affirmation
Gifts
Acts of Service
Physical Touch

Mr. Chapman believes the key to a successful marriage is finding the love language that matches with your spouse and expressing your love through that channel. It's a great book! Cheesy at times, but overall it really struck home. Here is what we (Bart and I) have discovered so far:

Bart's love language: Gifts
Ashlee's love language: Acts of Service

And you don't have to read or listen to it just once...I'm working on my second take and still discovering things I didn't hear the first time.

Now if you're still wondering how in the world my motivational speaker used this book to become successful in the mortgage industry, let me enlighten you. He was able to apply this theory to others around him, therefore showing them (co-workers, clients, friends, etc.) how he cared for them. Pretty ingenious I must say.

So, enjoy! I hope it helps you.

All the Best.

I'm Smart.

2010-01-15T14:58:00.000-08:00

My fortune cookie told me so. It read:

"You have made a brilliant choice today."

I'm glad I need a fortune cookie (which doesn't even contain an actual fortune in it) to confirm to me that I do indeed make good decisions. But hey, whatever works.

Also, has anyone else noticed I've been going crazy with the side comments lately...? Yeah, me niether.

All the Best.

Just Call It An Obsession.

2010-01-13T22:02:00.000-08:00

Here's pair #5!

And yes...that big, white bump you see that takes up almost the whole left-hand side of the picture is baby Jack. But at least I can still see my feet. :)

All the Best!

Another Self Discovery

2010-01-13T21:00:00.000-08:00

I really like teaching.

I haven't quite figured out why, but I think it has something to do with the high you get afterwords...knowing that you just helped someone increase their knowledge that could actually help them someday. It's an awesome feeling.

But I did not get my degree in education. Why?! I'm not quite sure.

Don't get me wrong...I still get way nervous (as in sweaty palms, shaky voice, can't-remember-what-I-just-said mentality, etc.) when I'm up in front a group of people. And I get easily intimidated when I know someone in the crowd knows way more about a subject than me...and they should really be teaching it.

Yet I still like it. Go figure.

Maybe I should channel this energy to working on church lessons sooner instead of the night before. I'll have to work on that.

I want to leave you with some pics of my family that I've taken pretty recently. So enjoy...and I hope my family members don't mind. :)

Bart in his bow tie that I bought him for Christmas.

Beautiful Peyton in her blessing dress (edited by Bernadette).

Dave and TeriAnn's family portrait on their half pipe
(That's right, it is in their backyard).

Paige, the niece who never complains about getting her picture taken. I love it!

All the Best!!

Mommy (Panicking) Moment

2010-01-12T13:32:00.000-08:00

Has anyone taken a look at Jack's countdown lately...cuz I sure haven't.

Until today that is.

How in the world do I only have 39 days left until Jack is going to be an official member of our family?! (and that's only if he decides to come on his due date and no sooner) Where did my nine months go (am I the only one who was jipped a month or two in my pregnancy)??

Usually I wouldn't worry about stuff like this, but there is no way I'm prepared to be Mommy right now. I don't even have baby Jack-Jack's bedding yet (although in my defense, bright color bedding with cars embroidered on it is very hard to come by these days...and I am not waivering from that theme), which again wouldn't be a big deal if I had a crib set up to put the bedding in. And don't even get me started on how I'm supposed to take care of and raise this little boy...I can hardly take care of myself right now.

Although, I'm not doing as bad as I think. For example: I have already pre-registered for our hospital, I'm about to call a pediatrician for when the little monkey is born, and Bart and I spent six (yes that's right, 6) hours in a basic birthing class on Saturday to gear us up for labor and delivery (at least now we know the signs of when I am in active labor). These have to be worth something, right??

So really, I'm just trying to relieve some of my stress and guilt (stupid procrastination) by writing this post. For those of you who are due around the same time as me...and are way more prepared...great job, and I hope you feel better about your situation as you read about mine. :)

All the Best!

P.S. I lied. I actually found Jack's bedding...it looks something like this:

But I just barely discovered it and I still have to buy it. And a BIG "thank you" must go out to my sister-in-law, Jessica and her mom, Jennifer for helping me find this bedding that fit my exact criteria. I am in love with it and hope it's still available.

Maroon and Gold, Baby!

2010-01-12T13:01:00.000-08:00

It's official...

...we are now Sundevils!!

Bart was accepted to ASU for the Spring 2010 semester and we are super excited. Just two years here and two years at NAU and he'll be a licensed physical therapist. Ahhh, so close...yet so far away...

Let me tell you I'm not excited for the price tag that comes along with a full time student at ASU. Granted, it's not as expensive as other universities, but still...$6K a year for tuition only?!? (Our pocketbook is cringing). Such is life, I guess. But it will be very much worth it in the end.

Congrats, baby for getting accepted! I'm so proud of you!

All the Best!

No Time = No Blogging

2009-12-16T15:11:00.000-08:00

I have had zero time this past week for blog updates...and unfortunately it doesn't look like I'll be getting any spare minutes in the future either. Life is one crazy mess right now. So I won't be blogging for awhile (unless for some miracle I get caught up with everything). I know you are all completely disappointed (those of you who actually do read this thing) but it is for the best.

So for now...

Goodbye Blog Land.

Sweet Success!

2009-12-04T10:29:00.000-08:00

Those of you who are fortunate enough to endeavour through the pregnancy glucose test (and who pray like crazy that they pass it so they don't have to take the three hour test) will be happy to know that I, Ashlee Hatch, have passed said test (THANK GOODNESS!!!).

It's really not that bad...I would just rather pass it the first time. :)

Hooray for not having gestational diabetes!! I'm adding that to my "Blessings" list.

All the Best.

Memory Lane

2009-11-28T22:35:00.000-08:00

Memory Lane was open for me all this weekend while I was cleaning out our second bedroom for baby Jack (thanks Bernadette for the help!!). I was able to look through a bunch of old things (ie: journals, photos, quotes, clothes, etc.) I had acquired over the years. So here is a little glimpse of the great memories I happened to stroll upon.

A photo:

Our first Thanksgiving together as a married couple.
November 2007

And a poem I fell in love with...again:

People are often unreasonable, illogical, and self centered.
Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of ulterior motives.
Be kind anyway.

If you are successful you will win some false friends and some true enemies.
Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and frank, people may cheat you.
Be honest and frank anyway.

What you spend years building, someone could destroy overnight.
Build anyway.

The good you do today, people will often forget tomorrow.
Do good anyway.

Give the world the best you have and it may never be enough.
Give the world the best you've got anyway.

You see, in the final analysis, it is between you and God.
It was never between you and them anyway.

--Mother Teresa--

I had a really great (and much needed) break. I'm glad I was able to spend it with some great moments of my past...and hopefully I have many more to come.

All the Best.

Husbands Make Everything Better.

2009-11-28T22:27:00.000-08:00

I never publicly thanked my husband for cheering me up on a day where I thought all was lost (it must've been a hormonal, pregnancy thing). After a tearful phone call, and before Bart had to go to work, he took this picture to cheer me up. What a cutie!

Thank you baby for always sticking by me. :)

I love you.

Retraction

2009-11-18T07:23:00.000-08:00

So my sister Kristi and her husband Nick have given me a lot of crap for posting the funny picture of their family at Peyton's blessing. I personally thought it was cute...especially of Nick (see here for details).

But, in order to make them happy I will post the picture (otherwise known as the boring one) that was taken right before the other.

Ahh, what a beautiful family. :)

All the Best to Kristi and Nick.
(I hope you're happy now :) )

Have You Ever...?

2009-11-17T17:46:00.000-08:00

Have you ever had a nightmare where you accidently tucked in the bottom of your skirt into your underwear after going to the bathroom, and you didn't notice until it was too late?

Or have you ever seen this embarrassing moment acted out on a commercial, TV show, or movie?

Well I have...and today my horrible nightmare came true...at work.

The good news: I don't think any person saw.

The bad news: As I turned around to confirm this horrible realization I think I flashed the security camera. Oops. :)

So ladies, always double check your skirts before you walk out of the bathroom. Better to be safe than sorry.

All the Best.

Note to Son

2009-11-13T09:58:00.001-08:00

Dear Jack,

I'm so excited that you are becoming more active everyday, and that I get to feel you all the time now. I just know you're gonna be a handful when you finally get outta there. But Jack, my bladder is off limits, so please use some other organ as your trampoline.

Lots of Love,

Mom.