Tuesday, January 29, 2013

Catch Up

We were so blessed to have family come in town a few weeks ago. My brother Jae had his Utah reception, which Braden and I were able to go to. Unfortunately, Devin couldn't join us because he had a volleyball game that night :( The reception was beautiful and so much fun! I am so glad they had a Utah reception so that I could feel a part of the wedding. We really missed my sister Laura and her family since they had to head back to New Hampshire after the wedding in California. Family pictures just look so strange when not everyone is included! 

Braden's outfit was a little big, but at least it matched the wedding colors! He slept through the whole reception! 





That same weekend, Devin's parents and brother Nathan came in town to see Devin's games. It's always so much fun to have them in town. Braden had been counting down the days to meeting his grandparents! I got to go to the first part of Friday's game with them and it was so much fun! We really missed Devin's brother Ryan and his family who were planning on coming up for the weekend, but had a few kids get sick. Hopefully we can find a way to see them soon! 



On Sunday (talk about a busy weekend!) we were able to bless Braden. We did it in the evening on so my Dad could make it. It was a small group of close friends and family, but it was such a special evening! Thank you to everyone who came to support us. 




 The men in the circle: Grandpa Tueller, Uncle Dave, and our dads. We were missing our brothers!


Braden flashing gang signs with his buddy Ryker :)

We love having family in town!

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

motherhood | small & simple things


This scripture has become so meaningful to me in the past few weeks. As a new mom, I sometimes felt like I wasn't getting anything done. I think that was due to the fact that I went from being a student with a very hectic semester full of tests, group meetings, work, running errands, and checklists to being a full-time mom. At first, it was hard for me to get to the end of the day and not be able to make a list of what I accomplished. My days consisted of feeding Braden, changing diapers, giving baths, doing laundry, and washing dishes. I was having a hard time feeling like what I was doing was valuable. This scripture came into my mind one day and has completely changed the way I think about this stage in my life. Right now, the things that I spend my time doing, are very small and simple. But those small and simple things will bring to pass great things. I know that what I do as a mother is of great value. I know that every minute I spend talking or singing to Braden, every diaper I change, and every load of laundry I do, is helping me work towards something great. What could be greater than helping a precious child grow and develop? In the world's eyes, greatness is accompanied by media coverage, tangible awards, and big crowds of people. I've realized that the "great things" spoken of in this scripture are so much more than that. I am so grateful to be in the situation I am in. I am fortunate to be able to stay home with my beautiful baby all day. I get to see his little smiles and watch his eyes fill with wonder as he discovers the world around him. I get to use the talents and abilities Heavenly Father blessed me with to bring the spirit into our home. I am truly blessed to be spending each day doing the small and simple things.

Monday, January 14, 2013

Braden: one month


I can't believe Braden is already a month old! He has become my little buddy. There are so many things I love about him. Just to name a few...
- His eyes focus so much better now and follow me when I move around the room
- He makes the funniest gestures with his hands! 
- He gets wide-eyed when I sing songs to him
- He tries to intimidate me with his angry eyes, but I just think it's cute :)
- He has discovered his voice and makes little yells and sounds that I just love!

We are so blessed to have him in our home! Here are a few more pictures from the last month:












Friday, January 11, 2013

Let the wedding bells ring!


My oldest brother Jae is getting married tomorrow to his lovely fiance Amy in the Oakland California temple. With Braden being less than a month old and Devin having volleyball games this weekend, we weren't able to travel down for it. Even though I won't be there, I am so excited for everything that will be happening tomorrow. The day I married Devin was the best day of my life and I'm sure it will be the same for the two of them. I could not be happier for the choices they have made and the way they have both lived their lives so that they're able to take this next step together. I am so grateful for the positive influence Jae has had on my life. He has been such a supportive and loving brother. I never thought he could find a girl good enough for him, but after meeting Amy, I stand corrected! She is such a great match for Jae and will be an amazing addition to the family. I hope everything goes well tomorrow! I could not be happier for them!