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Showing posts with label baci's babies. Show all posts
Showing posts with label baci's babies. Show all posts
6.14.2013
baci's babies | Greyson Thomas
10.16.2012
baci's babies | Jackson Angelo
Can you believe how cute our most recent Baci's Baby is! Jackson Angelo Shorthouse was born on June 11, 2012 at 6:33 PM. He was born weighing in at 9 pounds, 3 ounces and measured 20 inches long. I can only image how excited sweet Gina and Jeff are with their little man :) Congrats to the Shorthouse family on your adorable new addition!
10.05.2012
Special Edition :: baci's babies | Our Pregnancy Journey
While sitting here on the couch watching the new season of Giuliana & Bill reeling with crazy intense heartburn I can only assume is caused by this little one in my belly, I'm reminded of how we got here. This post is incredibly appropriate since October is SIDS, Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month. I feel that it's important to talk about the struggles we incurred while trying to conceive because sometimes it's nice to know there are other people out there who have or are struggling, too. Not every person can get pregnant "on the first try" or when they're "not even trying". A Random Note - these are phrases that should only be uttered when you know the surrounding company has had the same amazing fertility luck that you have, otherwise you may get punched in the throat ;o)
Back in December, I shared our story up to that point in my One Day in December, I Feel Lucky post - at that time last year we had gotten pregnant and miscarried after a very rough few weeks. We also believed we were having issues getting pregnant again. In late December after a chat with my lady doctor I had an ultrasound just to ensure everything was in working order and thankfully it was. So we kept trying - counting days, taking basal body temperatures, the whole nine yards - all while attempting to still have fun and not become crazy, baby-making obsessed people.
At this point we were a few months into the new year and I began to put two and two together - my periods had always been 100% predictable and never incredibly painful, but for the past several months (we're talking at least since September) they arrived a few days late and were completely out of the norm for me. Even though I had been a few days late each month, I wasn't taking pregnancy tests each time because I didn't want to get my hopes up. . . see "attempting to not become crazy, baby-making obsessed people" above :o) Anyway, I started to think that maybe I was getting pregnant each month, but it wasn't lasting long. Ilario agreed that this could be a possibility so we kept trying.
The next month we got a positive pregnancy test on March 19th. Sadly, I miscarried a few days later on the 22nd. On a positive note, this miscarriage happened all at once instead of lasting several weeks like our first one the previous February. This was the final straw for us - we needed answers so we made another appointment to see my doctor a few weeks later. Then began the most frustrating few weeks of my life - the doctor didn't agree with or truly even listen to anything we had to say. She simply shook off ours thoughts of getting pregnant and losing it each month with a, "Probably not." When asked what our next steps were (at this point we'd been trying for well over a year), she proceeded to treat us like a couple who wasn't getting pregnant. Her course of action was to have Ilario tested and for me to begin treatments for ovulation and have testing to see if my tubes were open. Meanwhile, we're incredibly annoyed because I could feel my ovulation each month, not to mention I had recorded my basal body temperature for what seemed like forever at this point, and having already been pregnant twice I knew at least one tube was open. When asked what they would do if I only had one, she replied, "Nothing." So what are we doing all this for, Lady?!?!
I wasn't settling for any of this. We had Ilario tested then I started to call and chat with the nurses before doing anything else she suggested - someone was bound to listen to me, right? They agreed to write up a call for a Thrombophilia test to see if I had some sort of clotting disorder. While I had absolutely no family history of miscarriages, the possibility of Thrombophilia was always in the back of my head because I knew several people who had dealt with it while pregnant. The nurses agreed and I had a 8 vials of blood drawn (oh the joys!). Then I waited. And waited. Finally, after the full two weeks they said it could take for the results I called to check in. My awesome doctor got the results back (which were negative), never called and then went on vacation. Hey, thanks, Lady! The nurses said there really wasn't anything more they could do so they decided to refer me to a specialist.
While all of this was going on, I had a predictable, normal for me period. Why? Because Ilario and I didn't try to conceive that month. In my mind, this solidified my theory and I was determined to figure out why I was getting pregnant each month, but unable to carry it longer than a few days or weeks.
A huge double blessing came in mid-May in the form of another positive pregnancy test and a last minute cancellation at Reproductive Gynecology in Akron. I had an appointment to see a reproductive endocrinologist just three days after I found out I was pregnant.
When Ilario and I met with Dr. Mooney he simply sat there and listened to us. It was amazing - that's all we had wanted this entire time! He then proceeded to list off all the things they do for someone who is suffering from recurrent miscarriages - HE BELIEVED ME, another amazing sound to my ears! Before we even left the office they took a sample of Ilario's blood and made an appointment to do the same for me the next morning. If I thought 8 vials was bad for the initial Thrombophilia test, I was in for a rude awakening - they took 11 vials that next morning to test things like karyotype and to re-test for Thrombophilia because apparently my first test appeared to be missing a few things.
Meanwhile, Dr. Mooney immediately started me on a course of Progesterone pills, folic acid (on top of my prenatals) and low-dose baby aspirin. We then scheduled an appointment for an ultrasound on June 4th. That was the day we first heard our little one's heartbeat and got to see its tiny beginning. It was a dream come true - absolutely unbelievable. Though incredibly ecstatic, we were far from relieved because we were only 6 weeks along. That was when everything started going downhill the first time around, but we felt hopeful hearing a heart beat - something we hadn't experienced before.
We continued to see Dr. Mooney each week and at 8.5 weeks (a point we had never before reached) he finally had our blood test results back. He said I had MTHFR and PAI1 - the first a form of Thrombophilia and both genetic deficiencies. Why my first doctor's test hadn't found this out weeks earlier, I'll never know, but thank God it hadn't been an issue. He went on to explain that since I had made it this far that this pregnancy probably wouldn't be affected, however, if I came in for my next appointment and my baby had no heartbeat they wouldn't look so smart :o( He also said that my deficiencies (I'm like an X-Man, but not as cool!) put the baby at risk for low birth weight and me at risk for preeclampsia and premature labor. We had a decision to make, continue as we had been with just the Progesterone, folic acid and low-dose baby aspirin or add a twice-daily Lovenox (a blood thinner) injection to the mix through my 20th week.
While stabbing myself in the stomach twice a day wasn't exactly the way I had planned on spending my next 12 weeks, Ilario and I wanted to do all we could to make sure this baby arrived as planned, safe and sound. So I began the injection regimen - every 12 hours, twice a day. After the first injection I bawled like a baby and just knew there was no possible way I could ever do this. Thank God my mom was here to read back through the instructions with me and calm me down so I would try again. That second time, with a little baggie full of ice to numb the area, was like heaven compared to the first shot. With some continual self-pep-talking I made it through those 12 weeks and if you're faced with the same thing know that you can, too! Some days it's awful, but most of the time it's a breeze - you eventually find your "groove" so to speak and it is just one extra thing you have to do each day.
Ilario and I continued to see Dr. Mooney through the rest of our First Trimester and we were so blessed to get to see and hear our baby each and every time. I don't know how "normal" pregnant ladies can stand not getting to see their babies each visit, it was amazing and exactly the reassurance we needed. Our final appointment at Reproductive Gynecology was July 18th. Typically, I would have started seeing my original OBGYN at this point, but since she had done nothing to help me reach this point I decided she was no longer an option. I loved the practice she was at though so I thought I'd simply switch to another doctor and I made my first appointment there. Most larger practices will have your first OB appointment be with a Midwife and I was no different, even at 15 weeks pregnant.
My hopefulness and optimism at this appointment were struck down time and time again. During that short visit, I was told approximately 15 things I didn't want to hear - ranging from the fact that if I delivered at the hospital we had chosen and my former doctor was on call the night I went into labor that she would be delivering my baby (NOT gonna happen, Folks!) and that I was going to need to take injections the entire pregnancy, switch to Heparin a month before my due date and get induced a week early. Oh, and by the way, "You're doing your injections wrong". It was awful and I was heart broken (and in a lot of pain when I tried to give myself the shots the way the midwife instructed - also not happening!). I had felt so comfortable, confident and downright awesome the entire time we'd seen Dr. Mooney - I had every right to be a nervous wreck, but he put me at ease (and made me laugh at every appointment with his smart-assery, lol!) and I realized that I truly needed that. In one hour, the mid-wife made me nearly have a panic attack and totally freaked me out.
So we decided we'd search for a completely new practice with a new doctor - a very scary thing to do at 15 weeks pregnant. After asking the opinion of friends and family, we came across Dr. Stewart - a high risk OB with his own practice. Everyone that had worked with him sang his praises and when I met him for the first time (at 17.5 weeks) I had all the same reassuring, comforting feelings I had experienced with Dr. Mooney. It was settled, Dr. Stewart was our man!
Ilario came with me to what is typically known as the "Anatomy Scan" appointment because not only did I need support in saying, "No, we don't want to know the baby's gender", but I also needed help with the fact that they were going to have me stop taking the Lovenox injections (at this point I was past 20 weeks). Don't get me wrong, I was thrilled at the idea of no longer having to shoot myself up every day and night, but I was so afraid at what could happen when I stopped. Once again, Dr. Stewart and his entire staff reassured me that all was well and the injections were no longer needed. MTHFR is such a common deficiency and thankfully mine is heterozygous, which is the least scary version.
So here we are at almost 24 weeks with a heartburn causing, hiccup-having blessing growing large in my belly (at our last ultrasound we were told the baby's head is in the 98th percentile, so I don't lie about the large part - lol!) - I can't even begin to describe how thankful I am to be having this experience and how indebted I am to the fabulous doctors that have been with us throughout this journey. It's so joyous and simultaneously crazy - especially knowing all that it took to get here. I am so looking forward to the next 16 weeks and to meeting our maybe not-so-little one :o)
For all the mommas-in-waiting out there, know that it's possible - don't give up, ever - no one can take away your dreams of becoming a parent. Maybe it's not in the cards for you to carry your child in your womb, but know that one day you'll be carrying them in your arms and that's what is most important. God bless and good luck!
Back in December, I shared our story up to that point in my One Day in December, I Feel Lucky post - at that time last year we had gotten pregnant and miscarried after a very rough few weeks. We also believed we were having issues getting pregnant again. In late December after a chat with my lady doctor I had an ultrasound just to ensure everything was in working order and thankfully it was. So we kept trying - counting days, taking basal body temperatures, the whole nine yards - all while attempting to still have fun and not become crazy, baby-making obsessed people.
At this point we were a few months into the new year and I began to put two and two together - my periods had always been 100% predictable and never incredibly painful, but for the past several months (we're talking at least since September) they arrived a few days late and were completely out of the norm for me. Even though I had been a few days late each month, I wasn't taking pregnancy tests each time because I didn't want to get my hopes up. . . see "attempting to not become crazy, baby-making obsessed people" above :o) Anyway, I started to think that maybe I was getting pregnant each month, but it wasn't lasting long. Ilario agreed that this could be a possibility so we kept trying.
The next month we got a positive pregnancy test on March 19th. Sadly, I miscarried a few days later on the 22nd. On a positive note, this miscarriage happened all at once instead of lasting several weeks like our first one the previous February. This was the final straw for us - we needed answers so we made another appointment to see my doctor a few weeks later. Then began the most frustrating few weeks of my life - the doctor didn't agree with or truly even listen to anything we had to say. She simply shook off ours thoughts of getting pregnant and losing it each month with a, "Probably not." When asked what our next steps were (at this point we'd been trying for well over a year), she proceeded to treat us like a couple who wasn't getting pregnant. Her course of action was to have Ilario tested and for me to begin treatments for ovulation and have testing to see if my tubes were open. Meanwhile, we're incredibly annoyed because I could feel my ovulation each month, not to mention I had recorded my basal body temperature for what seemed like forever at this point, and having already been pregnant twice I knew at least one tube was open. When asked what they would do if I only had one, she replied, "Nothing." So what are we doing all this for, Lady?!?!
I wasn't settling for any of this. We had Ilario tested then I started to call and chat with the nurses before doing anything else she suggested - someone was bound to listen to me, right? They agreed to write up a call for a Thrombophilia test to see if I had some sort of clotting disorder. While I had absolutely no family history of miscarriages, the possibility of Thrombophilia was always in the back of my head because I knew several people who had dealt with it while pregnant. The nurses agreed and I had a 8 vials of blood drawn (oh the joys!). Then I waited. And waited. Finally, after the full two weeks they said it could take for the results I called to check in. My awesome doctor got the results back (which were negative), never called and then went on vacation. Hey, thanks, Lady! The nurses said there really wasn't anything more they could do so they decided to refer me to a specialist.
While all of this was going on, I had a predictable, normal for me period. Why? Because Ilario and I didn't try to conceive that month. In my mind, this solidified my theory and I was determined to figure out why I was getting pregnant each month, but unable to carry it longer than a few days or weeks.
A huge double blessing came in mid-May in the form of another positive pregnancy test and a last minute cancellation at Reproductive Gynecology in Akron. I had an appointment to see a reproductive endocrinologist just three days after I found out I was pregnant.
When Ilario and I met with Dr. Mooney he simply sat there and listened to us. It was amazing - that's all we had wanted this entire time! He then proceeded to list off all the things they do for someone who is suffering from recurrent miscarriages - HE BELIEVED ME, another amazing sound to my ears! Before we even left the office they took a sample of Ilario's blood and made an appointment to do the same for me the next morning. If I thought 8 vials was bad for the initial Thrombophilia test, I was in for a rude awakening - they took 11 vials that next morning to test things like karyotype and to re-test for Thrombophilia because apparently my first test appeared to be missing a few things.
Meanwhile, Dr. Mooney immediately started me on a course of Progesterone pills, folic acid (on top of my prenatals) and low-dose baby aspirin. We then scheduled an appointment for an ultrasound on June 4th. That was the day we first heard our little one's heartbeat and got to see its tiny beginning. It was a dream come true - absolutely unbelievable. Though incredibly ecstatic, we were far from relieved because we were only 6 weeks along. That was when everything started going downhill the first time around, but we felt hopeful hearing a heart beat - something we hadn't experienced before.
We continued to see Dr. Mooney each week and at 8.5 weeks (a point we had never before reached) he finally had our blood test results back. He said I had MTHFR and PAI1 - the first a form of Thrombophilia and both genetic deficiencies. Why my first doctor's test hadn't found this out weeks earlier, I'll never know, but thank God it hadn't been an issue. He went on to explain that since I had made it this far that this pregnancy probably wouldn't be affected, however, if I came in for my next appointment and my baby had no heartbeat they wouldn't look so smart :o( He also said that my deficiencies (I'm like an X-Man, but not as cool!) put the baby at risk for low birth weight and me at risk for preeclampsia and premature labor. We had a decision to make, continue as we had been with just the Progesterone, folic acid and low-dose baby aspirin or add a twice-daily Lovenox (a blood thinner) injection to the mix through my 20th week.
While stabbing myself in the stomach twice a day wasn't exactly the way I had planned on spending my next 12 weeks, Ilario and I wanted to do all we could to make sure this baby arrived as planned, safe and sound. So I began the injection regimen - every 12 hours, twice a day. After the first injection I bawled like a baby and just knew there was no possible way I could ever do this. Thank God my mom was here to read back through the instructions with me and calm me down so I would try again. That second time, with a little baggie full of ice to numb the area, was like heaven compared to the first shot. With some continual self-pep-talking I made it through those 12 weeks and if you're faced with the same thing know that you can, too! Some days it's awful, but most of the time it's a breeze - you eventually find your "groove" so to speak and it is just one extra thing you have to do each day.
Ilario and I continued to see Dr. Mooney through the rest of our First Trimester and we were so blessed to get to see and hear our baby each and every time. I don't know how "normal" pregnant ladies can stand not getting to see their babies each visit, it was amazing and exactly the reassurance we needed. Our final appointment at Reproductive Gynecology was July 18th. Typically, I would have started seeing my original OBGYN at this point, but since she had done nothing to help me reach this point I decided she was no longer an option. I loved the practice she was at though so I thought I'd simply switch to another doctor and I made my first appointment there. Most larger practices will have your first OB appointment be with a Midwife and I was no different, even at 15 weeks pregnant.
My hopefulness and optimism at this appointment were struck down time and time again. During that short visit, I was told approximately 15 things I didn't want to hear - ranging from the fact that if I delivered at the hospital we had chosen and my former doctor was on call the night I went into labor that she would be delivering my baby (NOT gonna happen, Folks!) and that I was going to need to take injections the entire pregnancy, switch to Heparin a month before my due date and get induced a week early. Oh, and by the way, "You're doing your injections wrong". It was awful and I was heart broken (and in a lot of pain when I tried to give myself the shots the way the midwife instructed - also not happening!). I had felt so comfortable, confident and downright awesome the entire time we'd seen Dr. Mooney - I had every right to be a nervous wreck, but he put me at ease (and made me laugh at every appointment with his smart-assery, lol!) and I realized that I truly needed that. In one hour, the mid-wife made me nearly have a panic attack and totally freaked me out.
So we decided we'd search for a completely new practice with a new doctor - a very scary thing to do at 15 weeks pregnant. After asking the opinion of friends and family, we came across Dr. Stewart - a high risk OB with his own practice. Everyone that had worked with him sang his praises and when I met him for the first time (at 17.5 weeks) I had all the same reassuring, comforting feelings I had experienced with Dr. Mooney. It was settled, Dr. Stewart was our man!
Ilario came with me to what is typically known as the "Anatomy Scan" appointment because not only did I need support in saying, "No, we don't want to know the baby's gender", but I also needed help with the fact that they were going to have me stop taking the Lovenox injections (at this point I was past 20 weeks). Don't get me wrong, I was thrilled at the idea of no longer having to shoot myself up every day and night, but I was so afraid at what could happen when I stopped. Once again, Dr. Stewart and his entire staff reassured me that all was well and the injections were no longer needed. MTHFR is such a common deficiency and thankfully mine is heterozygous, which is the least scary version.
So here we are at almost 24 weeks with a heartburn causing, hiccup-having blessing growing large in my belly (at our last ultrasound we were told the baby's head is in the 98th percentile, so I don't lie about the large part - lol!) - I can't even begin to describe how thankful I am to be having this experience and how indebted I am to the fabulous doctors that have been with us throughout this journey. It's so joyous and simultaneously crazy - especially knowing all that it took to get here. I am so looking forward to the next 16 weeks and to meeting our maybe not-so-little one :o)
For all the mommas-in-waiting out there, know that it's possible - don't give up, ever - no one can take away your dreams of becoming a parent. Maybe it's not in the cards for you to carry your child in your womb, but know that one day you'll be carrying them in your arms and that's what is most important. God bless and good luck!
9.11.2012
baci's babies | Mia Elizabeth
We have another beautiful baci's baby for you today!! The gorgeous Mia Elizabeth was born on June 12, 2012 at 4:39 in the afternoon to our dear friends, Jesse and Laurinda :o) You've seen these two pop up all over the place, but most recently for Laurinda's Baby Shower. Mia was born weighing 7 pounds, 14 ounces and measuring 20 1/4 inches - we know she'll be just as gorgeous as her awesome parents with that sweet, sweet face! Congratulations, Moore Family on your newest addition!!
8.03.2012
baci's babies week :: A baci's baby of our very own!!
A very heartfelt thank you to all of our dear friends and family members - it is with your support and love that we will be welcoming this baby into the world!!
This just in: Uncle Nick - who says he's never been wrong - just performed the famous "pencil test" and it said we'll be having a little lady in the house!! We'll have to wait and see if he's right in January!
8.02.2012
baci's babies week :: baci designs | Carrie's Baby Shower Stationery {Tallmadge, Ohio}
Early last Spring, Ilario's cousin Maria asked me to create stationery for her daughter-in-law Carrie's upcoming baby shower! Carrie knew she was having a little girl and they had already chosen a name - Anna Maria - so with that in mind and using the adorable bird's egg soap in nest favor as inspiration we designed a gorgeous suite, complete with thank you notes and a Baby Shower Memory/Guest Book, on Handmade Seeded Stock. I honestly can't get enough of the little nest and bird designs - they turned out so stinking cute :o)
Images by Caroline Hardoby
8.01.2012
baci's babies week :: baci designs | Carson's 1st Birthday Invitations {Prairieville, Louisiana}
Last year, I had the great pleasure of working with the lovely Jenny again on little Miss Carson Clare's first birthday invitations!
Carson has one of the best Grandpas around because shortly before her birthday he bought her a pony named Biscuit - what a lucky lady! Biscuit (that's him at the bottom of the invitation!) was the inspiration for the cowgirl-themed invitations and I couldn't have been more excited with how well they turned out :o)
Images by Caroline Hardoby
7.31.2012
baci's babies week :: baci's baking | Baby Shower Mocktails
Before we get started, we just want to wish our baby brother, Andy, a very Happy 18th Birthday!!! Wow, that makes me feel old ;o)
While mimosas are a staple at most showers, having something the guest of honor can't drink isn't the most polite thing to do. So if you're hosting a Baby Shower, serve up some fabulous mocktails!! Oh, and Fre makes an alcohol-free champange so you can still make "mimosas" for the mommy-to-be if she'd like :o)
Here are three tasty mocktail recipes that would be perfect for any Baby Shower!
Makes about 16 servings.
Ingredients:
1/2 gallon fresh orange juice, chilled
one 1-oz. package vanilla instant non-fat pudding
1 liter ginger ale, chilled
1 pint non-fat vanilla frozen yogurt
Directions:
Put the orange juice into a large punch bowl and whisk in the pudding mix until completely dissolved. When ready to serve, drop small scoops of the yogurt into the punch and pour in the ginger ale. Serve immediately.
Makes about 16 servings.
Ingredients:
half gallon white grape juice, chilled
12 red seedless grapes
1 bottle (750 ml) sparkling red grape juice cocktail, chilled
1 liter lemon-flavored mineral water or seltzer, chilled
Directions:
Pour two cups of the grape juice into a pitcher. Fill the compartments of a 12-portion mini-muffin tin 3/4 of the way full and place in the freezer until frozen, about two hours. Meanwhile, cut each grape lengthwise into 8 even wedges. When the juice in the muffin tin has frozen, arrange one grape in a concentric circle, overlapping slightly, in each compartment, resembling a flower. Very slowly fill each muffin cup to the rim with more grape juice without disturbing the pattern. Freeze until firm. Make several batches of the blossoming grape ice cubes and refresh them as they melt in the punch.
To make the punch, fill a large punch bowl with the white grape juice, then add the sparkling red grape juice and lemon seltzer. Remove the muffin tin from the freezer and let stand five minutes for the cubes to release from the pan. Carefully remove the frozen grape "flowers" from the muffin tin with a small spatula and float them in the punch. Serve immediately.
Makes about 8 servings.
Ingredients:
1 cup lime juice (from about 6 limes)
3/4 cup sugar
Peel of 2 limes
Two 4-inch sprigs fresh rosemary, plus more to serve
4 to 6 cups chilled sparkling water
Directions:
Stir the lime juice with the sugar in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Lower the heat and cook, stirring frequently, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the lime peel and the rosemary sprigs. Simmer for another minute, then turn off the heat. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Strain out the lime peel and rosemary and mix with the chilled sparkling water in a sealed jar or bottle. Taste and add more water if you want a lighter flavor.
Serve over ice with a small sprig of rosemary muddled into the drink.
While mimosas are a staple at most showers, having something the guest of honor can't drink isn't the most polite thing to do. So if you're hosting a Baby Shower, serve up some fabulous mocktails!! Oh, and Fre makes an alcohol-free champange so you can still make "mimosas" for the mommy-to-be if she'd like :o)
Here are three tasty mocktail recipes that would be perfect for any Baby Shower!
Creamsicle Punch
Original Recipe from HGTV
Makes about 16 servings.
Ingredients:
1/2 gallon fresh orange juice, chilled
one 1-oz. package vanilla instant non-fat pudding
1 liter ginger ale, chilled
1 pint non-fat vanilla frozen yogurt
Directions:
Put the orange juice into a large punch bowl and whisk in the pudding mix until completely dissolved. When ready to serve, drop small scoops of the yogurt into the punch and pour in the ginger ale. Serve immediately.
Sparkling Sunshine Punch
Original Recipe from HGTV
Makes about 16 servings.
Ingredients:
half gallon white grape juice, chilled
12 red seedless grapes
1 bottle (750 ml) sparkling red grape juice cocktail, chilled
1 liter lemon-flavored mineral water or seltzer, chilled
Directions:
Pour two cups of the grape juice into a pitcher. Fill the compartments of a 12-portion mini-muffin tin 3/4 of the way full and place in the freezer until frozen, about two hours. Meanwhile, cut each grape lengthwise into 8 even wedges. When the juice in the muffin tin has frozen, arrange one grape in a concentric circle, overlapping slightly, in each compartment, resembling a flower. Very slowly fill each muffin cup to the rim with more grape juice without disturbing the pattern. Freeze until firm. Make several batches of the blossoming grape ice cubes and refresh them as they melt in the punch.
To make the punch, fill a large punch bowl with the white grape juice, then add the sparkling red grape juice and lemon seltzer. Remove the muffin tin from the freezer and let stand five minutes for the cubes to release from the pan. Carefully remove the frozen grape "flowers" from the muffin tin with a small spatula and float them in the punch. Serve immediately.
Sparkling Rosemary Limeade
Original Recipe from The Kitchn
Ingredients:
1 cup lime juice (from about 6 limes)
3/4 cup sugar
Peel of 2 limes
Two 4-inch sprigs fresh rosemary, plus more to serve
4 to 6 cups chilled sparkling water
Directions:
Stir the lime juice with the sugar in a small saucepan and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Lower the heat and cook, stirring frequently, until the sugar is completely dissolved. Add the lime peel and the rosemary sprigs. Simmer for another minute, then turn off the heat. Cover and refrigerate overnight.
Strain out the lime peel and rosemary and mix with the chilled sparkling water in a sealed jar or bottle. Taste and add more water if you want a lighter flavor.
Serve over ice with a small sprig of rosemary muddled into the drink.
7.30.2012
baci's babies week :: Handpicked | Baby Shower Gifts
Earlier this year we dedicated an entire week to one thing everyone loves - BABIES!! And we're back at it again this week to share great tips, gift ideas and some beautiful baby-focused designs we've been working on :o) First up, fabulous baby shower gift ideas!
As with any shower, it's always best to shop from the registry - after all momma and daddy-to-be have thought long and hard (and probably researched, argued and debated - lol!) about what they need. Besides, figuring out how to care for a newborn baby and hassling to return unwanted items all at the same time is just no fun. So whenever possible shop the registry - keep some of these great gifts in mind when picking from their provided options, I'm sure they're bound to include a few!
I've listened to all of my mommy friends over the years about their opinions and advice about what the "must haves" are - here are just a few of them :o)
1) A Travel System - this in "non-baby having terms" means the car seat and stroller work together as one unit. These little lovelies have car seats that pop into bases buckled into the car (be sure to buy a second one for daddy's car!) so you don't have to unbuckle every time. The car seat also fastens into the stroller (having one that is simple enough to fold up with one hand is a must!) and later when the baby is bigger the stroller works all on its own. Since travel systems are pricey they're a great group gift option!
2) A Great-looking Diaper Bag Neutral Enough for Dad to Carry - Diaper bags are a necessary evil, but they don't have to ugly anymore (everyone say, "YAY!"). Pick one out that is fashionable enough for mommy to carry (let's leave the cartoon characters elsewhere), yet not too girly for dad to haul around (because you know he will).
3) Sophie the Giraffe Teether - I've seen this adorable little teether everywhere I turn - it the perfect "gift topper"!
4) Bumbo Baby Sitter - My sister-in-law and brother-in-law swore by this seat - it helps the baby sit upright until is can sit up all by itself. Great after the six month mark when the baby starts eating solid foods!
5) Baby Carrier or Sling - Keeps baby close and momma hands free! The BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier is a classic.
6) Disposable Diapers - Even if mom and dad intend to diaper their baby in the cloth numbers, they'll most likely still use disposables when traveling or sending the baby to grandma and grandpa's - meaning every one will still need diapers at some point. I've been told Pampers Swaddlers are where it's at by all of my baby-toting friends! Note: Don't buy too many newborn diapers - little ones don't stay in these long enough to warrant boxes and boxes of them.
7) Nipple Cream - There isn't a lady out there who hasn't told me there is one thing you can't live without when breast feeding - Nipple Cream. If your pregnant friend doesn't realize she'll need it - help her out and add a tub to her shower gift :o)
8) Baby Prints Frame - Most hospitals only get footprints of the newborn while in the hospital, so help the new mom and dad out by buying them a keepsake frame for both those adorable piddy and hand prints!
9) Books - You can never go wrong buying books for a new baby - starting a library for a young children is forever giving! Check out Amazon's list of top children's books for ideas!
As with any shower, it's always best to shop from the registry - after all momma and daddy-to-be have thought long and hard (and probably researched, argued and debated - lol!) about what they need. Besides, figuring out how to care for a newborn baby and hassling to return unwanted items all at the same time is just no fun. So whenever possible shop the registry - keep some of these great gifts in mind when picking from their provided options, I'm sure they're bound to include a few!
I've listened to all of my mommy friends over the years about their opinions and advice about what the "must haves" are - here are just a few of them :o)
2) A Great-looking Diaper Bag Neutral Enough for Dad to Carry - Diaper bags are a necessary evil, but they don't have to ugly anymore (everyone say, "YAY!"). Pick one out that is fashionable enough for mommy to carry (let's leave the cartoon characters elsewhere), yet not too girly for dad to haul around (because you know he will).
3) Sophie the Giraffe Teether - I've seen this adorable little teether everywhere I turn - it the perfect "gift topper"!
4) Bumbo Baby Sitter - My sister-in-law and brother-in-law swore by this seat - it helps the baby sit upright until is can sit up all by itself. Great after the six month mark when the baby starts eating solid foods!
5) Baby Carrier or Sling - Keeps baby close and momma hands free! The BABYBJÖRN Baby Carrier is a classic.
6) Disposable Diapers - Even if mom and dad intend to diaper their baby in the cloth numbers, they'll most likely still use disposables when traveling or sending the baby to grandma and grandpa's - meaning every one will still need diapers at some point. I've been told Pampers Swaddlers are where it's at by all of my baby-toting friends! Note: Don't buy too many newborn diapers - little ones don't stay in these long enough to warrant boxes and boxes of them.
7) Nipple Cream - There isn't a lady out there who hasn't told me there is one thing you can't live without when breast feeding - Nipple Cream. If your pregnant friend doesn't realize she'll need it - help her out and add a tub to her shower gift :o)
8) Baby Prints Frame - Most hospitals only get footprints of the newborn while in the hospital, so help the new mom and dad out by buying them a keepsake frame for both those adorable piddy and hand prints!
9) Books - You can never go wrong buying books for a new baby - starting a library for a young children is forever giving! Check out Amazon's list of top children's books for ideas!
6.14.2012
baci's babies | Raymi Louette
I'm thrilled to announce yet another beautiful baby girl has been added to the baci's babies family!! Raymi Louette was born on April 3rd at 3:11 PM to some of my favorite people - Jaaci and Matt :o) The little lady weighed in at 7 pounds 7 ounces and 19 1/4 inches long.
A very big congratulations to the Carr and Bergman Families!!! Raymi is one luck girl to have such great people surrounding her :o)
5.17.2012
baci's babies | Colbie Grace
We have a few new additions to the baci's babies family (yay!) to share with you all - first up, Colbie Grace!! Miss Colbie is the baby sister to Carson Clare :o) She was born February 22nd at 8:04 AM to the lovely Jenny and Mike! Little Colbie weighed in at 6 pounds, 15 ounces and 20 inches.
We can't wait to meet this gorgeous girl in person!! A big Congrats to The Enlow Family!!
1.12.2012
baci's babies | Harris Family Photo Shoot
The Harris Family Photo Shoot
My best friend, Brittany, asked me to take some pictures of her family, which included the adorable, little, Rose! I was thrilled she asked me and didn't hesitate to say YES!!!
Look at that adorable face!!
She looks so innocent by the "Time Out" chair and in a tutu :)
She just loves kisses from Daddy!
Rose made it so easy to take photos!
A woman's best friend, her daughter :)
This has to be my favorite picture of Rose!!!!
I was so happy Brittany asked me to take pictures of Rose!! I hope you enjoy them, too :)
1.10.2012
baci's baby shower food
Baby Shower Food---Or shall I say Baby Shower Desserts :)
I have never had so much fun putting together a post, I found so many fabulous dessert ideas!!!
*These hand decorated sugar cookies are from Etsy and they sell for $45.00 for a dozen of them. These would be perfect for any themed baby shower and are absolutely adorable!!!*
*Cake Pops -- best desserts ever!!! If you wish to purchase them, these cake pops are also from Esty and sell for $19.20 for a dozen. If you are up for the challenge, you can purchase Cake Pops by Angie Dudley online from overstock.com for $12.79. This would be a fun thing to do with family a few days before the baby shower.*
*I have never seen anything like these cupcake rattles before and I LOVE them!!! I found these on Bake for You. Again, these can be made for boys or girls. I might have to try these out for my pregnant friends out there :) *
*Only because I LOVE the cake pop idea's, I picked one more. I found these online at Sweet Lauren Cakes.*
I hope out of these four desserts, you enjoy at least one of them :)
1.09.2012
baci's babies week!
While we tend to focus on weddings here at baci, we do love switching things up and working on stationery and events for other fun occasions life brings along. Our favorite - anything to do with babies!!! So we're dedicating this week to all things baby - up today are some super fun and creative stationery we've had the joy of creating for some of our favorite clients. Enjoy all the chubby cheeks and giggles this week!!
P.S. We will interrupt once this week with an awesome announcement - stay tuned!!
P.S. We will interrupt once this week with an awesome announcement - stay tuned!!
Baby Shower Invitations
Birth Announcements
Birthday Invitations
All Images by Brandy J Photography
3.29.2011
baci's babies | Mya Ophelia
The third addition to our baci's babies "family" actually happens to be family!!
Miss Mya Ophelia was born to my cousins and former wedding clients, Katie and John on September 2, 2010. Katie and John remember her birth date as 90210 - LOVE IT!!! Mya was born at 7:24 pm in Dublin, Ohio weighing in at 6 pounds, 9.5 ounces and 20.5 inches long.
Katie and John recently had the über talented Kelly of Kelly Van Horn Photography (don't you just love her baci-designed logo?!?!? YAY!) take photos of Miss Mya and she honestly could not be cuter!!! She had me at headbands and tutus :0)
A huge thanks to Katie, John and Kelly for allowing me to feature such a beautiful little lady in such incredible photos!!
2.24.2011
baci's babies | Carson Clare
I apologize for my serious slacking on the promised new feature from last year - baci's babies, where we take a look back at past wedding client's big days as they start having babies and sneak a peek at their gorgeous new little ones. I'm beginning a catch up (not ketchup ;) ) phase right now though!!
First off is Miss Carson Clare, born to not-just-wedding-clients-but-friends Jenny and Mike on June 14, 2010 at 10:58 pm weighing in at 5 pounds exactly and 18 inches long. I couldn't pick just one photo of the lovely little lady because she is quite possibly the most adorable baby on the planet!! I just want to squeeze those little cheeks :o)
 |
| Photos by Genovese Photography |
I couldn't help but share a few other shots of work I've done for Jenny and Mike in the past that will be featured on the new baci site, even though it hasn't quite been revealed yet. Consider this a sneak peek of all the goodness to come!!
Jenny and Mike's Rehearsal Dinner Invitation Suite and Place Cards
Jenny and Mike's Wedding Invitation Suite and Ceremony Program
Monogrammed Drinkware for Jenny and Mike's Reception
Jenny's Thermographed Personal Stationery
Carson Clare's Birth Announcements
Photos by Brandy J Photography
As always, Jenny and Mike, I adore you and thank you for allowing baci to feature your beautiful baby girl and for choosing to work with baci throughout these past few years!!!
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