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16 Week Bump Update

November 23, 2015 by Abby Thome

16 weeks!

For Dan and I, this pregnancy feels like it’s flying by. I just keep thinking, thanksgiving I’ll be nearly 17 weeks, we’ll be finding out the sex in a few more and by the time Christmas is over we are left with 4 short months until the babe is here. It is pure excitement – the boys are getting more and more into it as the days go on and the arrival of this baby is much-anticipated.

Dan snapped some super last-minute pictures when I remembered what today’s post was to be. No shower, hair 3 days old, kids in random pj’s … one hot mess but just an honest look at what our nights look like!

I thought it would be so fun at this point to answer the same questions over a period of time at certain weeks when I post, just to remember what’s going on. So, here we go!

cravings: this is a tough one. Not because I am not craving anything, but really there is a lot that sounds good. I know what they say, craving sweets you’re having a girl, salty it’s a boy. Oh whatever. I am all over the freaking board – but the things I cannot get enough of. TUNA – girl, limiting myself to one tuna sandwich a week with pickles is a real struggle but when I have it my pregnancy taste buds are in heaven. EGG SALAD – as of late, I eat an egg salad sandwich every single week day. And SOUR candies – which is hysterical b/c I am a chocolate girl all the way. But I have dived face first into the kids candy for sour patch kids, sour gummy worms, skittles… I never want real desert, just a candy kick.

weight gain: such an awkward and stupid question, but I’ll go right along with the game. 4 weeks ago it was zero pounds, I had the stomach flu to thank for that one. My appointment is tomorrow and I am hoping I catch up. With the boys by 16 weeks I was up 10 or so pounds. So, we shall see. The weight will come, and that’s okay with me. These hips won’t lie.

comments: I’ve heard a lot of “wow momma, look at that belly!” obviously because I am showing a ton already. And ” are you finding out the sex??” It’s fun to know we’re not the only ones itching to know what the baby is 🙂

fears: oh well isn’t this question a debbie downer. The obvious. Wanting the baby to be healthy, not just as a baby but as a kid, adult etc. The normal mommy worry about wanting the best for our little ones. It’s exhausting right?

mood: goofy, tired, sentimental, happy, sappy. I have to admit this past month, especially with every brody is going through has taken a toll on us all. But, we’re staying positive. Keeping the fun alive, trying to keep our patience strong and just focusing all of our energy on keeping the boys healthy and happy. So, I guess I feel proud more than anything that I’ve kept my cool + feel very grounded through all of this chaos on top of being pregnant.

sleep: tossing and turning all night. Not because I am uncomfortable, I know the day will come. But the kids have been sick and in and out of our bed. Or I’m up helping them in the bathrooms. I catch myself a ton laying on my back (which they say is bad) so I am constantly waking up and adjusting my position.

surprising me: two things. these early flutters I feel, which is so heartwarming and exciting and reassuring all wrapped into one. i adore it. I know my boys are sweet, but my gosh they talk to the baby, kiss my belly and check my “app” on my phone that tracks the baby’s growth all day long. I knew they’d be excited, but now that they’re older – it’s super sweet to see just how “big” of brothers they will have a role in being.

looking forward to: baby kicks! the nausea stopping. finding out if it’s a boy or girl!

what’s grossing me out: random things. if I assume a food isn’t cooked properly, or if someone else made it I suddenly will not want it if I second guess the ingredients.

random thoughts: things I do not want to forget. brody waking up (because of my pregnancy app) and saying to my belly “good morning baby orange!” and then “the baby is 16 weeks mom!” dan is on a roll wanting to tackle so many house projects before the baby is, and he is SO into the holidays. it is SO nice to have a hubs that feels just as nostalgic as I do about this pregnancy.

This big brother is just over the moon about the baby. And I know I look awful, please don’t remind me. To be totally honest I am shocked I don’t look worse. We’ve been thrown through the ringer this past month and still feeling sick on top of it. Someday during this pregnancy I’ll feel more together … right?

Owen loves patting my belly, and talking away about if he’ll get his “wittle sister cherry”

Celebrating the good, helping to heal the bad, we Thome’s are just trucking along, taking it all day by day and just so grateful the love and excitement this little one has already brought into our world.

Boxed.

November 18, 2015 by Abby Thome

This is NOT a sponsored post. I just love to share with you guys the things I am using, or have stumbled upon and have had an amazing experience with. This service is one to talk about! I made a promise to myself MONTHS ago that I would do a better job budgeting. Between groceries, toiletries, extras, family gatherings … the money was just going going going. My main squeeze works to hard to not have me giving our budget a bit more effort so I decided to really strap on the money belt and figure it all out.

Top three things I was doing wrong.

1. Going to the stores multiple, I mean multiple times a week. It never fails you guys. I forget something. I go shopping with the kids, no need to explain there. Or things come up and I am left scrambling to put together dinner and sides for a group.

2. Not gathering a collective list. When I would run out of something, I would run out and grab it. There was zero planning involved – ever.

3. NOT buying in bulk. I know what you’re thinking, sometimes buying in bulk seems like a waste – but we go through snacks and toiletries like they’re going out of style. Our cupboard is filled and emptied weekly and it is exhausting and expensive to keep up with it.

Have you ever sat down and REALLY calculated what you spend at the stores each month? It will leave you nauseas. The other month I dropped $1,200 at Target alone. And zero of that was home decor or clothes or anything really worth while. Purely snacks, toiletries, odds and ends. Not to forget about groceries on top of that cost… so probably an upward of $2,200 monthly. Eek.

I had to start breaking it down. Taking the time to figure out what we use and how often we need it. This required a lot of brain power that I have to admit, at 15 weeks pregnant my brain is pretty zapped of energy!

This is what I broke it down too. Let me start to explain a few things first, I cook a lot. From scratch and run through products fairly quickly. Brody now being a big first grader is allowed 2 snacks a day on top of his lunch so buying those “12” packs of snacks for $6 were ripped through in 5 days between the boys.

I turned to BOXED to help me get through most of the snacks, juice boxes, cleaning supplies and random bits to put my multiple shopping trips to an end and keep our pockets full.

A genius bulk supply website, that offers an amazing variety from cleaners, food, beauty to baby. Shipping is free when your order is $50 and it arrives so swiftly (1-3 days) your head will spin! This site requires ZERO membership fee so it just can’t be beat. And while I understand that it does not include fresh produce, I love the fact that buying GROCERIES is all I need to focus on now with a few side pieces they do not carry.

I ordered a stock pile of snacks to last us the next few months, along with juiceboxes + a bulk size bag of ground coffee. I was squealing as I opened up the boxes of goodies with the kids,they were just as excited as I was and I was thrilled to know I did not have to go to Target (as much as I love you.) to keep grabbing stuff all winter long (I despise driving in snow)

These are all of the goodies I grabbed, and I cannot tell you enough how relieved I am that I have a stocked pantry full of all of the munchies the boys like to go for.

All of these snacks and treats for $163 This is where I was OH SO pleased. $163, delivered to my house for free within 3 days and on top of that, there is no way I could run to target and buy the non bulk items in multiples to even come close to that low price!

They are doing some pretty amazing coupon codes right now too, spend $150 get $25 off and a few more!

If you use our referral code you get an additional $10

USE OUR CODE :: G5UNH

Let me know how you guys like it! I’m currently building my cart full of cleaning supplies and beauty stuff for the next order. Goodbye having to go to 15 stores to pick up what I need …

HELLO, boxed!

Pecan Pie Bites

November 16, 2015 by Abby Thome

Dan has been working his butt off to complete our master bathroom upstairs (we’re just putting in new flooring and cleaning it all up) and he also put in a new vanity and replaced the tile in our 1/2 bath downstairs. All for the love of a new main bathroom upstairs. By the end of this week we are hoping it will all be complete and we can start demo on Sunday!

In the mean time we’ve spent the past two weeks getting Brody back on his feet after a terrible flare up of his Colitis and spending a ton of time at home, cooking, and relaxing with family. We could all use a nap, but as all parents know, if you’re lucky that is reserved for bedtime. SO, on we march gathering up any energy we have left, ordering our Starbucks and whipping up these AMAZING holiday treats to share with you guys!

Pecan pie bites that will leave you feeling like a squirrel in the fall.

Shoveling as many as you can into your mouth, or stashing them away into your pockets to save for later.

I knew these would be a total knock out when I watched the “Tori and Dean Thanksgiving” on the Cooking channel last weekend. I LOVED watching all the seasons of Tori and Dean when they were on, partly because it was endearing and a total train wreck all wrapped into one. I love a good reality show!

Their cooking specials though are always adorable and Dean always has some amazing recipes up his sleeves, not to forget about Tori’s table top decor. You guys, record it now if you can find it, or play it on demand. The succulent pumpkins she creates along with her artichoke candle holders ….. ugh. Tori and Dean you suck me in every time.

I had an entire batch set aside and sprinkled with more “coordinating” sprinkles for a party we went to the other day. Somehow I managed to forget to photograph the “prettier” batch and was left with the gorgeous hot mess of sprinkle-love the kids made along side me. But, as we all know, it’s whats on the inside that counts.

Pecans, graham crackers, maple syrup ….. oh yes – these are the perfect holiday dessert.

The filling is so legit. The kids and I could not stop picking at it!

We all know the joy in devouring a large holiday meal – ever more the realization that there is still a plethora of dessert you want to try – and your belt buckle is just busting at the seams. That’s why, in my opinion, bite size desserts are all that should exist. It’s the perfect ending to a meal – a sweet piece to satisfy your sweet tooth. And if I wasn’t with child I would be enjoying one of these right now with a glass of red wine..

The delicious sweet pecan pie filling, wrapped in a blanket of bittersweet chocolate. A dessert that can be made in advance and kept in the fridge, perfect for a busy holiday menu or last minute guests!

This is the recipe, I cut the brown sugar in half. Also, I ended up doubling this one because we had a party to go to and family over the next day. Double this recipe and you’ll end up with close to 40-45 pecan pie bites.

Pecan Pie Bites

Recipe Type: dessert

Author: Abby Thome

Ingredients

2 1/2 cups Roasted Pecans
10 Graham Crackers
1/2 Cup Brown Sugar
1 tsp Vanilla
1/2 tsp Salt
6 Tablespoons Maple Syrup
1-2 Bags of Bittersweet Chocolate Chips

Instructions

Ready for the easiest recipe EVER?!
Roast the pecans at 275* for 25 minutes – remove from oven, let cool and CHOP a bit.
In a food processor, pulse together the chopped pecans, graham crackers until it resembles coarse sand.
Add in the brown sugar, vanilla, salt and maple syrup.
Pulse together until the mixture is wet.
Take a small cookie scoop (you dont have to!) And roll out small balls (ha.) You have to squeeze the filling to make the balls come together. Don’t fret, it happens quickly.
Set all of the rolled pecans bites into the fridge to set for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
Melt your chocolate chips. I do it in a glass bowl, in the microwave for 35 seconds at a time, until a few chips are left, letting the residual heat melt the chips.
Dip the balls into the chocolate, decorate with sprinkles if you’d like. let them set in the fridge until your ready to serve. Tori and Dean used crushed pie crust to roll them in, I was just fearful of the pie crust getting soggy – so it’s your choice 🙂

I hope these pecan pie bites make the list for your holiday gatherings, I am 100% positive they’ll be at my side for hostess gifts this year!

Soft cut-out Sugar Cookies

November 11, 2015 by Abby Thome

Oh twist my arm, I guess I’ll start testing out Christmas cookie recipes for you guys an entire month early. We really need a bit of cheer in this house – these past few weeks have been such a freaking doozy! Sweet B is on his second week being home from school, I have talked before about his Ulcerative Colitis and unfortunately the flu bug he caught from all of us has triggered a flare up for him. So, we are taking it day by day. On the phone left and right, going to the doctors for tests — and today, HOPEFULLY we will get some answers and new medication to manage all that he is going through.

He’s such a trooper, and baking/cooking is his jam. So, naturally we gravitate to the kitchen when we need a little boost during the day. He’s been on a roll this week, helping me whip up an amazing roasted vegetable and orzo salad. We made the most amazing pumpkin bread ever, I’ll share it with you soon! And these cookies?? Lord have mercy. If you are used to bland, crunchy, chalky roll out sugar cookies you MUST convert to this recipe.

They are pure delight.

A hint of almond extract really makes these cookies stand out! The best part about this recipe? No need to chill the though! Can I get an amen?? I can’t tell you how many times I’ve made sugar cookie dough with the kids, only to disappoint their anxious hands that the dough needs to sit in the fridge for a few hours, and on top of that be a pain in the tush to roll out cold cookie dough!

So if you have a holiday cookie exchange coming up, this would be perfect. Or just looking to bring the holidays home for your little ones, this recipe is fast and easy and just as delicious!

This recipe was made and baked in under 30 minutes and it was a few minutes of fun we definitely needed in our day yesterday! Christmas music on and all, we danced and sang and sprinkled till’ we couldn’t sprinkle any more.

Soft Sugar Cookie Recipe::

Click here for the recipe!

Nursery Inspiration

November 10, 2015 by Abby Thome

Our newest addition is not due until the Spring, but as I recall with being pregnant both times before during the holiday season – time can go really fast. Not to mention we have Brody’s birthday March 1 and Owen’s on April 30. This babe is due May 7, the same due date Owen had until they induced me, so I just wanted to start gathering up my ideas and dreams of what our new nursery will be. Our plan is to tackle it after Christmas, once we know if it is a little gentleman or little lady joining the Thome household!

WE NEED EVERYTHING.

Oy.

I thought I’d feel super overwhelmed with the ever-growing list of things we need for the baby, but both Dan and I love to shop and decorate so we are just excited to get the ball rolling, the new year could not come soon enough!

This post is just to show you some of my favorite nurseries I have found on Pinterest. You can follow me at this link HERE. I still cannot get enough of Pinterest, at night it’s my wind down time when I am trying to go to sleep. I love scrolling through the recipes, women’s fashion and home decor. I could, and do, spend hours a week at it.

I have created multiple mood boards with furniture/decor from Land of Nod, Pottery Barn, Target etc to guide my taste into actually realizing the price tag that goes along with these things, and well, it’s not pretty.

But, like a true tried and true decorator, I am always a girl after a challenge to complete a room within a reasonable budget. Hence me wanting to start the nursery a few months early, giving us plenty of time to get out and search for good deals.

Ever see Father of the Bride 2? When the nursery is revealed to Nina? For those of you reading this wondering what movie Father of the Bride (1 or 2) for that matter is, shame on you. Cancel all of your plans, tell your boss you have the flu and you MUST spend the entire day catching up on my all time favorite movie.

The nursery reveal was simply breath-taking, the room was soft, whimsical, just a nursery any momma would be lucky to retreat too.

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I know, very 90’s but you have to see the movie to understand how that nursery felt.

I want our future nursery to feel warm, inviting, cozy, with sweet touches of traditional pieces and enough functionality to help keep the boys occupied in there while I am busy with the babe.

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I adore softer more neutral nurseries, but I’d like to see this one with more pops of color here and there. And I am longing for a couch in our new nursery. I don’t want to waste the money on a rocking chair — I’d rather have a super comfy chair or a larger couch so the boys can join me while I nurse and I can read to occupy them

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I’m a fool for texture, and blues, and woods and whites. And that ceiling!? Sorry Dan, but I definitely think we’ll be adding something special to ours as well.

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I adore the idea of a charming floral wall if we’re having a little girl. There is something so vintage and sweet that adds such a nice touch to this nursery.

The possibilities are endless, and I am so excited to share with you guys the entire process once we roll up our sleeves. From the shopping to painting to putting this nursery puzzle together.

This new little babe is going to have quite the retreat 🙂

Sweet Potatoes with Pecan Struesel

November 6, 2015 by Abby Thome

I cannot be the only one who looks forward to Thanksgiving, am I?

The food, the family, the drinks (not this year) … the FOOD. Maybe it’s because my family really hits it out of the park? The side dishes are always delicious and leave you going back for seconds. I have had a huge hankering for thanksgiving themed food these past few weeks, I was trying my best to be patient and hold out until the big day but I just could not help myself!

I love sweet potatoes – we eat them at least once a week in this house. And when that warm bubbly sweet potato casserole lands on the thanksgiving spread I am sure to take more than my fair share. I wanted to switch it up and make one with a crunchy topping, not your standard marshmallow (I do not like that kind) — and I whipped up a pecan streusel topping that adds the most amazing nutty + sweet addition to this already delicious dish!

I had a major prego – moment picking up the ingredients for this dish. Damn pecans do it to me every time. My grandpa LOVED these pecan cookies I made — I would whip up a batch frequently and drop them off to him. He would tell my mom how they helped him sleep easier, which just warmed my heart and made me laugh, I told him it was all the butter. I had to shake it together in the middle of heinens while holding my container of pecans, to others, looking like a nut case. (pun totally intended)

What I love most about this dish is that you can make the base the day before, keep it in the fridge. Whip up the pecan streusel before you’re ready to bake it. Making entertaining super easy, and one less thing you have to make the big day. Dan and I ate these for days following …. literally, a plate full for lunch. Oh so satisfying, you have no idea.

Sweet Potatoes with Pecan Streusel

Author: abby thome

Ingredients

12 sweet potatoes
2 eggs
1/2 cup melted butter
1/2 cup half and half
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp ground cinnamon
tsp salt, bit of pepper
PECAN STREUSEL::
5 Tbsp melted butter
1/2 cup flour
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 cup chopped pecans

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375* Wash and dry your sweet potatoes, placing them on a baking sheet – poke a few holes with a fork in them. Rub with EVOO and bake for 50-60 minutes, until tender. I turned off our oven at 50 minutes, and kept them in for an additional 15 to relish in that warmth.
Let them cool —
Scoop out the inside of each of the 12 potatoes, placing them inside a large bowl.
Add the eggs, butter, milk, brown sugar, salt and pepper and cinnamon.
With a handheld mixer, whip them up until light and fluffy.
Pour into a 9×13 pan. At this point, you can make the Streusel if you are baking right away. Or cover the dish and put it in the fridge for the next day.
TO MAKE THE PECAN STREUSEL::
Combine all of the ingredients together, mix until it resembles wet sand. Pour onto your sweet potatoes.
WHEN READY TO BAKE:: Bake at 400* for 30-40 minutes, until the streusel turns a nice golden brown and the filling is bubbly.

This side dish will make the perfect pair next to your roasted turkey and stuffing – make it, and your guests will be asking for the recipe before you can serve them dessert!

Bathroom GUT!

November 4, 2015 by Abby Thome

We have 6 more months until our sweet little addition comes into our family. While to others that seems like an eternity of time to get things done, for us, we just see a list items we must complete before the babe is here. Sure, we could ignore half of them, but we’re not new to this parenting/newborn game, and we know that once we are in that mode there will be little time to slow down and do home renovations.

We have a few spaces that we feel as if we must get done before the baby is here. Rooms that are frequently used, and ones that we really don’t feel like worrying about once the little one has arrived. We’re looking forward to soaking in the baby stage and not worrying so much that we have rooms that are a hot mess.

What’s a hot mess? OH, buddy. Here you go!

The first room on our list is a total doozy – our main bathroom. It is a room that still gives me goosebumps and makes me cringe when I walk in. It needs a total complete gut, which we are thrilled about, but I am bummed I won’t be able to join in on most of the demolition fun! I want to smash this space to pieces and never see it again 🙂

Here are the pictures of this hot mess, please don’t judge. Eh, it’s awful.

Let me paint an even better picture for you – When we first bought the house the walls were purple, and the trim was black – AHH! Who does that??

So we covered what we could, kept the rest and moved on until we had the time/money to do a total gut. You see, as a homeowner, most of you may already know, there is always a distinct difference between projects that you “fluff” or give quick fixes to make livable, and ones that need started from scratch. Which, are obviously the more overwhelming projects. Why? Well – say goodbye to that room, for that designated amount of time, I’m foreseeing 4-5 weeks for this renovation to be complete. We have a tiny bathroom in our master bedroom that we will all have to utilize in the meantime.

The vanity, while still “in good shape” I am just oh so sick of old countertops and staring at wood doors that need re-painted. Shocked? I know, usually I have no problem bringing new life to older pieces, but there is a place and time when going new is needed. This entire bathroom fits that scenario.

The flooring is laminate, I like to call it cling on flooring. Desperate, stained, yellow/white/cream disgusting flooring that has been used and abused for over 30 years.

The bathtub is something out of a horror film. I cannot keep it clean – for the life of me. Under that darling bath mat is a tub that has dwindled straight down to the iron. It is bare bones on the bottom (awful). With a new babe around the corner, a brand new tub is without a doubt the #1 reason why we were so serious about starting this project.

As you can see, it’s not a tiny bathroom, nor is it all that big either. We are looking to maximize this space for having 3 kids. Making it functional, and stylish all in one.

Dan will be taking on the majority of the work for this bathroom, calling in his amazing Dad for tiling 101. We have both been dying to learn how to do tile work – and this is the perfect opportunity to learn from one of the best!

So, Dan is slapping down some temporary flooring in our master bathroom as we speak – so that we can utilize that shower and toilet for the next few months. Once that is complete, the main bathroom will be torn to bits. Sure, I am terrified at what we may find, surprise projects that I am sure will cause tears and pockets to empty – but this will be the first room in our house that we are giving a brand new start, one that we are hoping will last until the kids are in college!

What “look” are we going for, you ask? Well, I just so happen to of put together a mood board of what we are aiming for here.

We want this space to be functional, family friendly, and yet hold a traditional style that will last for years to come in this house.

Are you crying from excitement? Me too, maybe it’s the hormones.

A white hexagon tile on the floors – subway tile in the shower (color TBD) keeping it classic and subtle. The vanity is one I have been eyeing for a long time on Wayfair, every single item above is actually from Wayfair, however we are not getting it all from there.. I’ll include links for you too on a future post once we pick the pieces. I thought I would lean towards a darker vanity, or something more trendy, but this soft traditional piece just jumped right at me and never left my brain.

A overdyed rug, metallic mirrors (2, one for each sink) and lighting between the mirrors (TBD). We also need ceiling lighting, new exhaust fan, trim, wall color ..OY. I could go on and on. But, I feel super confident with where this bathroom is headed and I simply cannot wait to ENJOY a bathroom finally!

13 Weeks Baby T #3

November 2, 2015 by Abby Thome

Mario + Luigi would like to start this blog post off by apologizing for the crickets around here. Owen, Dad, and Mom all got swept with the stomach flu on different days and we’ve spent much of the past two weeks in bed and last week recovering and sanitizing our house head to toe. Now we are feeling 100% better and flu free and ready to share with you our bump update!

Goodbye first trimester, hello second! I have to say, making it through 3-13 weeks was quite a doozy with this baby. My morning/all day sickness is still riding high, but has taken a notch off the nausea for me these past few days. That first trimester was so insane, I felt like I was on a fishing boat the entire day, finding bits of relief at night where I could finally attempt to enjoy a meal.

We had our 12 ultrasound last week, and it never gets old you guys! Although it’s been nearly 5 years since my last pregnancy – the excitement and relief of seeing a healthy baby on the screen rushed back all of those amazing feelings of pride and joy. The little one is right on track, leaving mommy feeling boat sick all darn day still and a bump that can no longer be hidden 🙂

Some can’t believe how much I am showing at just 13 weeks, I am not surprised at all. My doctor said I was measuring right on time, and in fact, wanted me to work on gaining a few pounds since I haven’t gained one and infact lost a few from the flu (thanks a lot.) Some women feel bashful about their weight/baby bump – embarrassed about the size or how quickly they are showing. I could not care less … not a bit! Were growing a baby here ladies, give yourself some credit! Whether you boast how you gained only 20lb, or feel timid because you stopped counting at 50 – who the hell cares. Be proud of what you are doing, take care of yourself, don’t go take “eating for two” too seriously and you will be just fine.

I gained over 40 lbs with each of the boys, Brody was 8.6lbs at birth, and Owen who was induced a week early was 7.7lbs. So, I know for my barely 5 foot 1 frame I carry big babies. I know my body will do what it needs to do, stretch marks included (oh thanks ) and it is so worth it all in the end when your holding that sweet babe. I wish women weren’t so judgey with this crap — the game of comparison if you will. Enjoy your pregnancy, while at times it may seem like it is creeping by at snails paste, it is a sheer phenomenon what your bod is doing!

Here are a few shots of the 12 week ultrasound. This little one was squirming and turning all around – both boys were super active so I am super excited to be feeling those kicks and jabs in a few months. It was amazing to see the tiny legs and feet already (ah!) – it left Dan and I feeling very grateful to be given another shot at having another baby.

I made Dan take a picture of me in the morning, because by night this belly of mine looks a bit bigger and I didn’t want to startle any of you HA.

We are finding out the sex this time around – we’ve given away nearly 100% of all of our baby gear and clothes to friends and family over the year. But, we are super excited to stroll out and buy a fresh set of necessities.

Brody’s guess? BOY – he wants a boy named Billy.

Owen’s guess? GIRL – he wants a girl named Cherry.

Dan and I could care less if it is a boy or a girl, sure, I have my gut feeling as to what this little babe may be. But, at the end of the day, a healthy happy baby is all we pray for. Another little man in our house would be a wild fun ride, and if it’s a girl, we’ll have a new experience learning the ropes to a little lady.

We will be sure to keep you guys updated on the ever-growing bump and the gender reveal we are holding out until Christmas time!

What’s your guess on baby #3 ?! BOY or GIRL ….. Leave it in the comments below

Before the beans were spilled : 6 weeks pregnant.

October 20, 2015 by Abby Thome

I wrote this little diddy nearly 6 weeks ago, just wanting to start jotting down thoughts about this pregnancy. The pictures are oldies, but goodies.

At this point the secret it out to you all – BUT I just had to start writing down my feelings and what I am going through this pregnancy, because seriously, it is a whirl wind of emotions that I never want to forget.

Fellow mama’s have heard it before, “Oh, you’ll forget about the pain the second that baby is born” “Everything melts away” And it is true, well, 50% true. But I find myself trying to pin point certain milestones in the boys pregnancies and my memory tank is on low … like, complete low. Which bums me out that I did not journal their pregnancies, nor take any belly shots. So this sweet amazing gift will be documented the whole way through and I sure hope that doesn’t bore you a bit.

It will be my memory catalog for years to come 🙂

I sit here, 6 weeks pregnant counting my lucky stars that we will hopefully make it past the point of miscarriage like we did our last pregnancy. I am just simply aching for that first ultrasound, to see a healthy baby, a superb heart beat and be given that boost of confidence that I need oh so badly right now. Our family has no idea … which is SO difficult. It is almost stressful not saying anything just yet, simply because I wear my heart on my sleeve and tell everyone, everything.

Let’s take you back to the start of this all ….

We’ve talked a TON since the miscarriage about trying again. For a while the timing just wasn’t right. We had other things to tend to (sick kids, moving, adjusting etc). Suddenly, this summer it was just like the last missing puzzle piece. Every last drop of the “talking” just fit — it was no longer a question of “should we?” it was more of the question, “when can we start!?” We had a few things to check off of our list before we were to jump on baby making train, and we were so excited and terrified to start this journey all over again.

For those who have miscarried know all to well. The second that test turns positive, the joy, the happy tears just rush through you and your spouse. You know the due date, you schedule your first appointment, you talk about everything you need and names that you like. It’s a total high. When you miscarry, lord, you realize how quickly something can just be stripped from you. With or without warning, it is just an awful experience. You have to let go of it all — the plans, the hopes … it just all dissipates.

I knew we were risking miscarrying again when we started trying, but I just simply had to remain optimistic. Barely a few weeks after trying I knew all to well that something was going on. My period was not due for an entire week, but I was SO nauseas I could hardly stand it. I began to worry that perhaps it had something to do with my bowel obstruction (1 month earlier) but the way I was feeling, the extreme sickness and the high + low rollercoaster of emotions I was feeling …

I just had to know.

I ran to the drug store at 3:00 in the afternoon, knowing all to well you are supposed to test in the morning, your first pee. On top of that WAIT till a missed period, at least. I felt SO foolish for wanting to pee on a stick — but I knew I needed to get it out-of-the-way because if it was not pregnancy, I needed to get to the doctors stat because my nausea was out of this world. (Never had it like this with the boys, if it all)

I came home, dan was working on school work and the boys were playing nicely in their rooms. I peed. I waited not even a minute to look onto the window sill where it was sitting and see the strongest, darkest positive sign I have ever laid my eyes on! I was shaking, I wanted to scream, I would have peed myself from excitement if I hadn’t just gone 🙂

I walked into the room where Dan was and said “These stupid tests, ya know. I feel these strong symptoms, get my hopes up and it’s still negative” Dan quickly replied, knowing it was all to early and I always get too anxious “Seriously babe, why do you even waste the money” I ran so quickly over to his desk and slapped it done in front of him exclaiming “BECAUSE WE ARE! WERE HAVING A BABY!!!”

He looked SO stunned, so shocked, so happy all in one adorable expression. We hugged, we kissed and did not shut up for the next hour or so talking about it all. I could not believe I tested positive at 3 weeks – in the middle of the afternoon at that. The boys both took 5-6 weeks to turn positive. I was in a state of shock. I cried, we laughed, I just wanted to shout it from the rooftops.

That after all of this time, pushing it off, all of the sadness we went through before, it was just completely meant to be. We prayed SO hard to be blessed with another baby, and still as I type this cannot believe we have been.

Family of five watch out 🙂

Over the past 3 weeks it has definitely been a struggle … obviously, keeping my mouth shut during family parties and to friends and family is SO difficult. But, my “morning” sickness hits me right as I open my eyes and lasts to the wee hours of the night. Leaving me feeling like I am going to puke at any second of the day. My boobs hurt like none other, and already growing (which Dan is thrilled). It has been so intense these past 3 weeks already, which makes it even more real. I’ve had bad cramping on and off, pelvic and back which just terrified me. I was convinced some days I was just waiting to miscarry.

My OBGYN had me come in and do blood work and a urine sample to test for a UTI just incase. Urine was fine, and my HCG in my blood work was high for 5 weeks along. She asked if I was sure I wasn’t further along, and I was positive. A girl does not forget the date of her last period when she happened to be wearing white pants that day. So she did not say anything further …but I’ve looked up a few things. High hcg can simply mean a healthy pregnancy (love it) or testing early like I did, in the afternoon, along with high hcg can mean multiples ( oh boy), or a little lady. Honestly, we just pray for a healthy baby. We would be stoked to add another little gentleman to our bunch just as much as a new little miss.

Either way, by the time I post it I will know what it means.

(EDIT : one baby 🙂 just rockin’ my world with morning/all day sickness)

All we ask and pray for is a healthy addition to our family … You guys, really, I feel so nostalgic just thinking about it 🙂

Just look at this big ol’ belly just a day before being induced with Owen … and Brody’s baby face …

Chicken Pot Pie with a Sharp Cheddar Crust

October 19, 2015 by Abby Thome

This is sponsored post with Wayfair. Thank you for supporting The Thome Home and helping us bring out the best in our blog!

When I received an email from my lovely ladies at Wayfair, I knew the second I read the first few lines I had to try to get into this sponsored post. “Battle of the pies” if you will, or a fun virtual bake off where a select group of Wayfair homemakers will blog about their favorite pies. Funny thing is, as much as I love a delicious slice of pie, I have never made pie dough from scratch- so I knew this was going to be the perfect challenge for me!

Chicken pot pie was the first pie that popped to mind to bake when responding to the email. I am sure I could have listed 100 other sweet pies for my Wayfair folks to assign me, but with this pregnancy, all I want is savory all day everyday – thankfully, they allowed me to do my own twist!

A chicken pot pie, with a sharp cheddar crust was the pie to be baked. And, oh boy did I do that pie justice!

Why oh why do people who make pie make it sound like perfecting a pie crust is the trickiest technique in the books?? Folks I did mine with a bowl, two folks, my god given fingers and the correct ingredients and BAM — flaky, golden pie crust from heaven.

Let’s start with how I went about making this dish. It is a process, I started the entire deal at 1:00 and we ate at 5:00. Of course I had breaks in between, but chicken pot pie is a dish that needs a lot of loving and I promise you this one in particular is worth every second of a lazy sunday afternoon!

This recipe is to make TWO pies. Both with a double crust. So, cut it in half if you are wanting to make just one. Honestly, if you’re going to take the time to whip it up, there is nothing better than having one to toss into the freezer, which is why you always see me doubling my recipes!

First – the pie crust.

Sharp Cheddar Pie Crust

Author: Abby Thome

Ingredients

5 cups unbleaced all purpose flour
2 tsp salt
2 tablespoons sugar
4 sticks of unsalted butter – cubed and chilled in the freezer
2 cups ice cold water (plus more if needed)
1 8oz block of sharp cheddar cheese grated

Instructions

This is a DOUBLE recipe, for a DOUBLE crust. So, feel free to cut this recipe in half to end up with 1 perfect pair of pie crusts for a top and bottom dish.
First, whisk together the flour, salt and sugar.
Secondly, add your cubed butter that has been chilling in the freezer for 30 minutes.
With a pastry cutter, or two forks, mix the butter into the flour until the butter resembles the size of peas and the flour is just barely, if at all incorporated.
Pour in 1 cup of the iced cold water, and stir together with a spatula.
Add an additional cup of ice water, the pie crust should come together a bit more.
I used an additional 1/2 cup of ice water for my dough
Once the water was in, stir in the grated sharp cheddar cheese
Knead the dough with your hands until a nice big ball forms, do not over mix, it still will be a bit crumbly in areas.
Form 4 even balls, flatten into disks, and wrap with clear wrap.
Set in the fridge to chill for 1 – 2 hours until you are ready to roll

Whew, okay do not let the pie crust intimidate you. I’m begging you — I told Dan at dinner that it is almost a joke how fearful I was of making crust. I am now a firm believer in pie crust making, even more, adding unexpected flavors to my crust has left me addicted to this process.

An all butter crust is the way to go. Forget about the lard or shortening (eh, the thought of those ingredients just makes me gag). Use the real deal, ice cold water, freezing cold butter, you’re all good. Oh, and the sharp cheddar added in at the end just made this crust out of this world. It added the tangiest depth to this flaky dough, helping it crisp up and have a gorgeous golden hue.

Now, onto the filling! I was spooning this into my pregnant face while stirring it. I seriously could not help but pat myself on my back! It is amazing how cooking a dish can bring you right back to your childhood – I am so grateful to have a mom that always had a huge passion for cooking, because it spread right through me too. Hence, my 10+ paragraphs talking about chicken pot pie …. you can stop me if you’d like, but look at this baby …..

Ingredients:

Roast 1 head of garlic in the oven – cut the top off, sprinkle with EVOO salt and pepper. Wrap it up with foil, place it cut side down, and bake for 40 minutes. Set aside.

4 roasted chicken breasts. Seasoned with extra virgin olive oil, salt, pepper and a pinch of herbs de provence. Baked at 375* for 25 minutes

6 large carrots, chopped. 6 stalks of celery, chopped. 2 onions, chopped. 3 potatoes, peeled and chopped.

In a dutch oven, on medium-high heat, saute the veggies with a few tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil, salt and pepper, and a dash of herbs de provence. For about 10-15 minutes until the veggies begin to tenderize. Next, add 1/3 cup flour, simply sprinkle it across the veggies and toss in 3 pats of butter. This provides the base for what will thicken your chicken stock + milk. Stir in 1 cup half and half + 4 cups chicken stock. Toss in 1 boullion cube for an old school punch of flavor you just cant mimic. Squeeze out all of the roasted garlic bulbs into the filling as well. By now, your mouth will be watering.

Let the mixture come up to a boil, and reduce the heat to medium – low until the sauce has thickened like a gravy. Turn off the heat – and get ready to start your pie crust and get this beauty assembled.

Now for the assembly!

Roll out TWO of your pie crusts — Placing one in the bottom of your pie pan, poking holes with a fork in the bottom. Bake it at 375* for 8-10 minutes until barely golden.

Once the bottom crust has baked, take a handy dandy scoop and add as much filling as you’d like – I added about 4-5 cups to my pie pan (I like my pies plump). Take the other rolled out pie dough and place it on top, crimping the edges.

Last but not least, whisk an egg and brush the entire top with it to ensure a golden crust. Cut a slit or two in the top for ventilation and bake at 375* for 30 minutes, or until the crust is golden.

If you’d like to make the second pie, do the exact same steps and bake away. I saved my pie dough + cooled filling for the next day, in the fridge, to be assembled, baked and cooled – to be put in the freezer for a chilly winter day when I am craving this dish again.

Let cool for 15-20 minutes before slicing and serving, that is, if you can wait that long 🙂

I am so happy I took the pie crust plunge and just did it. I panicked hours before, wondering if I should run and grab a food processor (how a lot of cooks show it on t.v.) … honestly, just following the directions and using exactly what is called for is all you need to be on your way to a delicious pie crust.

This sharp cheddar pie crust would be amazing for an apple pie, a quiche, or even twisted into ropes and baked for dipping into soups this fall. Either way you have it, make this chicken pot pie and it is sure to turn into a family favorite!