the exciting times of L, K, Z & S!!!!!!!

11 months

2012-02-10T21:02:00.000-06:00

Little Miss Sadie is now 11 months old and tomorrow Zachary will be 1 month away from his 3rd birthday. Their birthdays are approaching so quickly and I can't believe that we're about to have a 1 yr old and a 3 yr old.

The "terrible 2's" have not been terrible at all. I have thoroughly enjoyed getting to see Zachary's personality develop and his verbal skills are AMAZING to me! So much has changed in a year and it's so hard to believe the development that he has made. Do we have our bad days with him, of course, but we have bad days too and we can't expect him to be perfect and not have any bad days. Overall, he has been great and such a joy to me. I LOVE staying home with him and wouldn't have it any other way at all.

Sadie's personality has really been blooming the last few months into such a sweet little angel. She's still nursing and doing great. I have no doubt in my mind that we'll be able to make it to my goal of 15 months. She hasn't bit in a good month, but she's never bit out of vengenance only on accident. Her and Zachary play pretty well together unless they're tired......HA!

Overall, the last month has gone well and we're adjusting to our new normal with Les' mom living with us for the last 5-6 wks or so. Les and I celebrated Valentine's last night and we had such a great time w/o the kids or mom with us. We went and saw Breaking Dawn, Part 1 and then ate dinner at Rockfish. Let me tell you, their seafood is so good! I recommend the crab stuffed flounder or the crab cakes........DELISH! Les had the grilled Tilapia and it was very good too, I snuck a bite off his plate. :)

Today I made whoopie pies and they were so easy and yummy too. They were a HUGE hit after dinner tonight by everyone.

I want to end with a HUGE praise and give Jesus all the glory. My mom had an appt this week to measure one of her cancer spots near her clavicle. Praise Jesus it hasn't grown at all; while it hasn't shrunk either, we can't focus on that. We don't know the plan, but HE does. We're placing our whole trust in Him. Whether she is healed on Earth or in Heaven; we trust His ultimate plan will be done. Jesus, thank you for giving us the hope of knowing we'll see our loved ones who are believers that go before us again someday. Through YOUR blood, we are saved.

Have an awesome weekend!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

WHAT?!

2012-01-29T16:57:00.000-06:00

Holy Moly, over a whole month has gone by........WOWZERS!!!!!!!!

Well, I can understand why b/c it has been BUSY over in the Cornelius household. It started with an appt to the GI doc for my MIL and ended with her moving in with us. Overall, it has been great so far and we're just working through all the kinks and adjustements of going from just us, to having grandma here too. It has been, I think, 4 wks on Tues, so it has been busy. As we adjust to the "new" normal; continue to pray for us with this big adjustment. :)

The kids' b'days are coming up way too fast for me too! Sadie will be 11 months old on February 4th. March is the BIG month for the kiddos and their b'days. I decided that this year; we're celebrating their b'days together b/c I know when they're older; I won't have that option. So, I have started "planning" their b'day party, but when I say planning, I know the themes, I think.......HA!

My mom is doing really well and the cancer is shrinking in one spot and they're keeping an eye on the other spot under her left clavicle. Thank you for the prayers for her too!!!!

I promise to write more, but our wireless was out for about 4 wks and that totally stunk, but it's fixed now thanks for Les' brother. :):) So, now I have the freedom to write a blog in our room. YAY!

So, I hope you have a great week - I'm leaving in the morning with the kids and going to go and visit my bestie, Christy and her family in East TX. I'm so pumped b/c she moved back at the end of 2010 and I am finally able to go out there and see their new digs. :) Plus, we just had her baby shower for Mr. Tyson on Saturday, so that was a load of fun!!!! I can't wait to meet him and it won't be but another 4 wks or so. Love you little buddy!!!!!!

Zachary - November 2011

Sadie - 10 months old here

Our Christmas picture at church - December 2011

Growing Up

2011-12-19T14:58:00.000-06:00

Our babies are growing up just too fast for me! Today, Sadie took a few steps while holding onto the couch. She seemed so proud that she had stood up and tried the walking thing. Of course, about that time, she was getting close to Zachary's car & he kind of pushed her. Well, it was enough to knock her over, so over she went and the tears started. I helped her stand back up and she seemed better pretty quickly.

Zachary is 2 yrs and 9 months old. He talks like crazy, loves cars, trains, trucks....pretty much anything that moves! LOL

Sadie is 9 1/2 months old. She is crawling and starting to crawl more on her knees. Mainly sticks to her army crawl and she is good at it too! :) She is eating good & would rather feed herself.

We're doing good and just enjoying the holiday season. Thanksgiving was good and we enjoyed having the Cornelius' over. Then we had Christmas yesterday with the Cornelius'. Then on Monday, we'll have Christmas with the extended Johnson's. I'm not really sure when we'll have Christmas with my immediate family. However, we will probably have Christmas with just our little family of 4 on Christmas morning, but we'll see. It falls weird b/c Christmas is on a Sunday this year.

I hope that you have a very Merry Christmas and remember, Jesus' birth is the Reason for the Season!!!!!!!!!!

MERRY CHRISTMAS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Days 22 - 24!

2011-11-24T10:28:00.000-06:00

Day 22: I am thankful for the missionaries who are overseas spreading the Good News!

Day 23: I am thankful for the military and how they are serving us by being over there keeping our freedom.

Day 24: I am thankful for our country and the all the freedoms that we have. We have the freedom to worship together at church, read our Bibles, pray, etc. I pray that our country turns around b/c all those freedoms will start diminishing if not.

I hope that you have a Happy Happy Thanksgiving!!!!!!

We're actually going to be celebrating with our families this weekend. Today we're celebrating my b'day with my parents by having homemade lasagna!!!

Absent for awhile....yes, I know!

2011-11-21T21:37:00.000-06:00

I want you all to know that even though I haven't been able to blog what I am thankful for; I have been writing them down. We were out of town from the 7th - 17th. We were camping at Caddo Lake State Park. We had a great time, but as you probably know; not many people knew we were going to be gone AND for such a long time. Les was out deer hunting and actually shot 3 while we were gone. So, for him this year; he has 4 deer. He's allowed 1 more for the state of TX, but we'll see if he's able to get another one.

Here are the things that I am thankful for:
Day 7: Rain - whew, this is much needed for Texas. We had just set the pop-up up at the park and within 10 min; it was POURING!!

Day 8: Heat - there was a cold front that came through and it was just flat out cold, but thanks to heaters; we were able to stay cozy and warm.

Day 9: Shelter - we have been sheltered through the rain/cold. I would say that this also goes for our house when we're home.

Day 10: Burp Clothes - Sadie LOVES to hold them when she's going to sleep. It's crazy; I can be rocking her without it, but the minute she has one in her hands; she's sound asleep!

Day 11: Internet - we were basically without any type of service (phone/internet). So, when we actually had service for a moment; then it was nice. HOWEVER, it was also nice to not have any of those things and just focus on each other.

Day 12: Owls - we went on a Owl Prowl with one of the park rangers. This was very informative and enjoyable for us. Now Sadie didn't really know or care what was going on, but Les, Zachary and I enjoyed it. They are such beautiful animals! On our Owl Prowl, we did get to hear an owl "talk" back to the tape that the ranger had.

Day 13: Nature - Zachary and I were on a hike one morning and while we were walking; the leaves were falling all around us. It was such a beautiful sight. I was thanking God for all that He has created!

Day 14: Laundry Mats - this one is crazy b/c we take for granted our machines at home, but when you don't have them; they're such a blessing! I only packed for 5 - 6 days and knew that if we stayed longer; then we would need to do laundry. This particular day; I took a break and went and washed our clothes.

Day 15: McDonalds and their $1 Sweet Tea - oh man, this was the best glass of sweet tea b/c I had been drinking water and some kool-aid. YUMMO!

Day 16: Nice Neighbors - this particular day I was thinking of our neighbors at the state park. The couple that was staying next to us were so sweet and friendly. One of things is that they let us borrow their internet card thingy to check the weather that was about to change (storms coming in) and another thing was bringing us homemade peanut butter cookies..........can I just tell you how good they were?!?! I ate several immediately.............HAHAHA When the kids and I went to tell them goodbye; Margo had made me a red, white, and blue hotpad holder. That was so sweet & I was so thankful for that. In fact, it's on my counter right now!

Day 17: Knowledge - the kids and I had taken a walk down another trail. Well, while we were walking, I came across a smell that I identified as butterscotch. I went to the rangers office and explained to them the smell. After researching, the ranger decided that it was a Ponderosa Pine. It was so cool learning something, both me and them!

Day 18: My own bed - it was wonderful to be sleeping with just Les. Zachary slept with us the whole time we were gone b/c we had Sadie on the other end by herself. He is a snuggler, so it was nice to be able to stretch out on my side of the bed....HA!

Day 19: Homemade goodies - I have already begun a few yummies for family/friends. I made a treat today and can't wait to share it!

Day 20: ME! I was actually born on this day; it was my 32nd birthday. :)

Day 21: God's Healing Hand - as I was thinking about today's blessing; I was quickly reminded that this time last year, I was at the doctor with my mom. She was very sick and had to be hospitalized (she was on chemo). I was thanking God for healing my mom and giving me (all of us) more time with her. I don't know if He has healed her permanently or just temporary, but I am still thankful for this extra time. Thank you, Lord for being the Great Physician. I love you, Lord!

There you have it, folks, I am all caught up on my days now!!!!!!!!!!

What are you thankful for?????

Day 6

2011-11-06T21:45:00.000-06:00

My Parents!!!!! I chose to do them today b/c today is their 41st Wedding Anniversary...........YAY!!!!!!!!! :)

They are such a blessing to me & have helped me so much over the years. Now that I have my own family; they still help me, but in different ways. They baby-sit, fix meals here and there, encourage us, etc.

I pray that Les & I will be alive long enough to even see 41 yrs together; I would be 69 yrs old and Les would be 77 yrs old or so. :) That seems REALLY old!!!!! LOL

Anyways, thank you mom and dad for setting an example to us & I pray that God will draw you both closer together more than you can imagine & that God would remain in the center of your marriage.

I love you both so much!!!!!!!!!!!!

Here is a picture of my parents, Les, me, Zachary, and Sadie at a rodeo from this past summer. FUN TIMES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Day 5

2011-11-05T15:07:00.000-05:00

I am thankful today for the meat that God provides for us. Whether it is from the grocery store or shot! Here is a picture of the doe that Les shot this morning. :) So proud of you, Les! Thank you, God for the meat that you put on our table.

This is the doe, his rifle, and his tree stand. She was shot around 6:55 AM, so not a bad way to start the morning off!!!! He hunted the spot that I hunted last year. I saw around 8-9 deer last year at this spot. WAY TO GO, LES!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Day 4

2011-11-04T16:10:00.000-05:00

Today, I am thankful for the newest member of our family, Sadie! She has been such a blessing to our family. She is so much fun, has the BEST smile, has awesome hair (like myself), is very curious of people and her surroundings (another characteristic of me). All in all, she's just the BEST daughter!! When I was pregnant w/ Sadie, I was kind of hoping that it would be another boy, but the minute they said it was a girl (at 13 wks); I was like," OH MY GOSH, I WANT A GIRL........YAY!!!!!!!!" I was so excited and knew that my dreams of piercing her ears, big bows, etc were going to come true. For as long as I can remember; I have wanted to piece my daughters ears and this was before I was even married. :):)

Today she is 8 months old and for her b'day present; she got the 2nd round of her flue shot. What fun is that?! :) Let's see, she is rolling every where, she army crawls all over the house now (no part of the house is off limits.....she crawled into the bathroom where Les was showering and was there on the little rug when he opened the door to get out.......too cute!). She has 2 teeth (bottom front) and 2 more teeth that are just about to cut (I give it a day or 2 days at the most till they cut through the gums). Those 2 teeth coming in are the top front. She eats like crazy! Loves straws.......she will FIGHT you for your straw.......HA! I keep her hair either in a clip or pony-tail most of the time b/c it's now in her eyes. It's gotten sooooooooo long! I could continue, but overall, she's doing GREAT and lovin' life!

Here are some pictures of our sweet little girl:

The night before she was born!

1 month old

2 months old

3 months old

3 1/2 months old

4 months old

5 months old

6 months old

7 months old

8 months old - this was just take a few days ago and she was LOVING that lollipop. Zachary got a lollipop for her while he was Trick-Or-Treating!!

Sadie, I love you so much and couldn't be any happier that you're my baby girl. I look forward to seeing you grow up. I pray that you rely on God and that you follow His will for your life. I love you, Sadie Jewell!!!!!!!!!!!

Day 3

2011-11-03T20:42:00.000-05:00

I have been out all day, so I am finally getting to the blog!!!

I am thankful for my son, Zachary, today. He's a huge blessing in my life & just love that little guy so much. He's 2 1/2 yrs old and just growing like crazy. He talks so much and has a huge vocabulary! Of course, I think he's just the smartest little thing around....HA!

He's very good with Sadie; which melts my heart. I'll see him kiss her on the head and then rub her hair. Awwww!!!!!!!!! He's such a sweet little boy.

Zachary, I love you so much and I'm so thankful that God gave you to us! You have blessed my life so much; I don't even know where to begin. I pray that you'll grow up to be a godly man and will follow God's plan for your life. Always look to Him for guidance; He'll never guide you wrong. I love you, Zachary!!!! :)

Here are some old pictures, but I thought it would be fun to see him change of the last 18 months or so.

12 months old

13 months old

14 months old

15 months old

16 months old - I was about 6 wks prego here

17 wks old

18 months old

20 months old or so - not sure of the exact date

This was the day that my OB/GYN confirmed that I was pregnant - July 28, 2008

Here is Zachary holding Sadie for the 1st time - I think it was the 1st time that he had seen her too. :)

Day 2

2011-11-02T14:32:00.000-05:00

For what I am thankful for today, that would be my hubby, Les. We have been friends for 6 1/2 yrs now and we just celebrated our 4th wedding anniversary on October 6. These first 4 yrs have gone by soo fast! We have had a great marriage and I just love this man so much. He's really been challenging me even though he doesn't know it. He reads his Bible everyday and I am striving to do the same too. I'm so proud of him!!

Les, I am so thankful that God crossed our paths and brought us together. You're the LOVE of my LIFE and my true soulmate.

I love you, Les!!!!!!!!!

This is one of our engagement pictures!!!!!!!!!!!

30 Day Challenge

2011-11-01T13:39:00.000-05:00

I have challenged myself (dare to join me???) to post everyday for something that I am thankful for. I decided to do this for Thanksgiving!!!
Day 1:

I am thankful for Jesus Christ, my Lord & Savior. He died on the cross for my sins and your sins. All it takes to get it Heaven is to accept His free gift! The changes that come along with accepting Jesus is amazing. However, God never said that it would be easy to follow Him. However, well worth it in the end (read Revelations and you can see it doesn't turn out well for those who don't accept Jesus).
Jesus, thank you for all that you do for me, how you prove yourself to me, and overall accepting and loving me no matter how I behave. Which is not always good, but I strive to be like You! I love you, Lord!!!!!!
This is one of my FAVORITE pictures!

To me, this picture represents that Jesus will never force His way into our lives, but we have to open the door and let Him in (notice there is no door knob for Him to use).

Randomness

2011-10-23T09:11:00.000-05:00

Whew, that was a STORM last night!!! I woke up to hail, LOTS of lightening, strong winds, etc. My mom was staying with us b/c she had kept the kids so that Les & I could go out for our anniversary (10-6-07). :) We celebrated 4 yrs of marriage and we have been together a little over 6 yrs. We had a blast and Les treated me to my favorite place; The Melting Pot. However, I am going to attempt this at home. I am looking for a bouillon recipe to cook the meat in. So, once I find that; then I am going to start with chicken and shrimp. Then, I'll add the steak later on. The chocolate that we ordered was Flaming Turtle - LOVED IT! The waiter added rum that was on fire and it was flaming on top of the chocolate till it burned off. Oh man, the chocolate was milk choc with caramel, and pecans. YUMMO! It was nice b/c we had time to just talk with no distractions. It was about a 45 minute drive over there; then we were there for about 2 hours; then another 45 minute drive home. Sadie did excellent for my mom & I'm so happy since she's not a bottle baby. Would I change that; absolutely NOT. I love that she's a good nurser and it's only for a short year b/c they go by just too fast. Gosh, Sadie is going to be 8 months old in less than 2 weeks. It's just flying too fast for me!

Something that I have been working on at home is writing scriptures down on notecards. I am going to be hanging them around the house (mirrors, computer, etc). I want our family to start memorizing scripture and when we see it all the time; then it will start to become engrained in our brains. I just love this! I have bought different color sharpies to make it fun and not boring black ink/white notecard. If you have a favorite verse that you would like to leave on my blog; please do so! I will add it to our cards w/ your name on the back of the card. That is the other thing that I am doing. I have asked for favorite scriptures from my parents so far and I am keeping record of who it's from. I love knowing their favorite scriptures; to me; that's such a big gift and comfort to go to in a time of storm.

Otherwise, we're doing great! Gearing up for hunting season; which starts in about 2 weeks (not early enough for Les.........LOL). He has actually been bow-hunting some and enjoying that. Plus, it let's him start hunting a month earlier..... :)

God bless & have a beautiful day!!!!!!!

Pictures of the kiddos!!!!

2011-10-10T16:51:00.000-05:00

Sadie LOVES ice cream!!!

Zachary feeding the animals - he loved doing that!!

Sadie with a pumpkin; looking cute!

Zachary holding Sadie - just love this! :)

Sweet smile - this is how he smiles for pictures now...HA!

Up close picture of Sadie too; I think she was looking at her daddy!

Love them together - I think they're really starting to look different. Z looks like daddy and S looks like Mimi (in my opinion!)

Me and the kids at the Pumpkin Farm

Les and the kiddos - hay ride!

She loved munching on the grapes in this. I never used it for Z, but thought I would try it with her and she wouldn't let go for me to refill it.

His 1st face-painting - a spider!

Here is Sadie playing outside in her piggy tails - look close and you can see those 2 bottom teeth too! :)

Her hair was starting to go a little crazy, but she's still has those piggy tails - this is probably in the evening; can't remember for sure. Just love her hair!

This was yesterday; she's been sitting up for awhile now. She's now army crawling and very good at that too. She definitely wants Z's cars!!!! Just love that expression on her face!!

This was this morning; they were playing together!

Here they are again together; just love watching them interact. She likes to grab his ears, pull his hair, and she even tried to bite him on the ear this morning.....HA! Of course, she doesn't know yet that it hurts when she bites!!!!

Hope you enjoyed the MUCH NEEDED picture update!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)

4 yrs!!

2011-10-06T10:23:00.001-05:00

Happy Anniversary to my hubby of 4 yrs now!!!!!!!! I thank God for you Les & feel so blessed to call you my hubby. I'm so glad that God crossed our paths about 6 1/2 yrs now. We have truly been blessed beyond what I could have imagined the last 4 yrs. The blessings runneth over & we have much to be thankful for. I am looking forward to watching Zachary & Sadie grow up and seeing what they'll become.

You're definitely the love of my life, soul mate, and best friend!!!!!!!!

As we continue walking down the path that God is leading us down, I pray that we will continue to keep HIM in the middle of our relationship. His guidance is what has got us where we are today. Thank you, Lord!!!

Leslie Dwayne Cornelius - I love you so much and I wish you a Happy Anniversary!!!!!!!

p.s. He got me a gift card to The Melting Pot (YAY!!) and He got a crossbow for hunting for his present (well, he picked it out.......LOL).

Puffs

2011-09-20T23:41:00.000-05:00

Well, Little Miss Sadie met a milestone. For a few weeks now; I have been putting Puffs on her highchair tray at various meals. She has been working on grasping the Puffs with her fingers and each time has gotten better and better. Tonight, she grabbed a Puff with her LEFT hand (I hope she's left-handed b/c I am) and put the Puff in her mouth. I was so proud of her that I started clapping and she jumped and looked at me and grinned really big. She loves eating Puffs, but I always put them in her mouth, so now it looks like she's actually going to start feeding herself food. I'm so excited for this development and watching her motor skills build up. What a big girl that she's becoming!!!

Here's a picture of her yesterday after eating a popsicle and having some sweet potatoes. What a face!!!!

She's actually trying to look around the camera at me and just grinning. So sweet!!!!

Here she is after the popsicle and actually holding onto the popsicle stick. Probably what happened to it (we shared it). :) She would squeal until I would give her another bite, so cute listening to her. She reminds me of Zachary when ice cream was around.

Fall??

2011-09-19T15:18:00.000-05:00

Is Fall really right about to start, wait for it........IN 4 DAYS (Sept 23rd)???? YEAH - I can hardly wait for Fall to start. My favorite time of year is Fall/Winter. I am ready to gladly welcome the cooler temps, the beautiful colors of Fall, the Holiday season, baking, cooking, enjoying MORE time with family, hunting season, my anniversary, my birthday, and more camping!!!

I'm so excited; I just can't hide it. I'm about to lose control and I think I like it; I like it! Don't remember the name of that song, but what a fun way to let go and have a reason to just dance around and sing while the windows/doors are WIDE open and letting the cooler air flow through our house.

We're all getting over having the stomach bug; thank you Mr Z for passing it onto mommy and daddy. Les and I were so weak yesterday, but we managed to take care of both of our babies and today feeling much better. I still have a lingering headache and some dizziness if I move around too much, but other than that, back to normal on the tummy front. :)

Some fun news - my bestie is moving to TEXAS!!!!!!! Yay, I was so happy when she posted the news on FB b/c then I didn't have to worry about slipping up and saying something.....HA! Love you, Christy!!!! Anyways, they're going to be about 3 hours from us, but that is driving and not flying, so we'll finally be living in the same state. Christy moved out to Las Vegas after she married her honey back in July 2005. He got a new job here and she'll be living in Flint. Can you know how happy that I am?!?! I'm thrilled and so glad that she'll be closer to her family and of course, me too!!! Also, she found out today that she's carrying a bouncing baby boy!!!!!!! I was so hoping that she would have a boy, but I thought with her trend of babies, she would have a girl. YAY for boys!!!!!!! I can't wait to meet him and he's actually do between my babies' b'day's - another March baby!!!! :)

Go outside and enjoy this beautiful day - we'll be back out there this afternoon, but both kiddos are napping and I'm laying down here blogging. HA!!!

1st for Z and S

2011-09-17T09:08:00.000-05:00

We have been so busy the last few weeks that I haven't taken the time to sit down and write. I miss blogging b/c for me; it's my own personal journey that I let you (my readers) read and experience with me/us.

We love camping and we were talking about how deer season is quickly approaching, but in order for me to go with Les and enjoy camping/hunting, etc; then Sadie must go too. Well, if Sadie is there; then we want Zachary there with us also. :) So we started talking about pop-up campers. We decided to start looking around to see if we could find one that would fit us and allow us to be together and enjoy the world of camping w/o missing out on nature too much. Last year during hunting season, it was WAY too cold for Zachary to be there, so he had to stay home w/ my parents; which he loves to do anyways. ;) We don't want the cold/hot temps to keep the kiddos from going with us. So, we found our pop-up!!! We decided to try it out several times before packing them up and leaving for a few weeks. We first slept in it in our backyard; which we call the prairie........HA! Then a week after that, we went to Eisenhower State Park on Lake Texoma and spent 2 nights there. They both did so well with the camping, so we think we're ready to go. However, I won't be hunting this year more than likely, but at least I'll get to be camping 1 way or another. We're also taking 2 cars in case we need to come home b-4 daddy is ready.

Let's see, Sadie has turned 6 months old and has 2 bottom front teeth coming in. She has gotten a tad cranky!!! It didn't help that we were actually camping when those 2 teeth made their grand appearance and cut through AT THE SAME TIME! However, she seems to be doing really well them, but has bit her own finger at least 1x and she cried so hard. I felt sorry for the sweet baby. :( However, she is still doing well with nursing so far and hasn't bitten me yet with those 2 new pearly whites. :) Her weight is about 12 1/2 lbs and she is not on the charts for her weight. Her height is in the 10-15% and doing well there. Her head is in the 50% and that's great! They are pleased with her and think she'll just be a petite girl, so that's just fine. She LOVES eating! She eats 3x a day including about 4x to nurse also. She is loving what we're offering her and enjoying this new world of food. She is starting to eat more and more solids, so that's fun to see her learn to chew and she's really getting good at it. So far it seems like she'll be following her brother's road to food and basically jumping straight to real food. She loves Puffs as does Zachary still..........I think he forgot about them till I brought them out for her to start eating. He could probably eat 1/2 the bottle in nothing flat if I would let him..........LOL All in all, she's doing great and enjoying life. We're so happy to have her as part of our family - we love you, Sadie!!!!

Let's see, Zachary is now 2 1/2 yrs old and doing really well too. He had his 1st stomach bug yesterday and ended up going to the ER b/c he vomited every 10 minutes or so for over 4 hours. He couldn't hold any liquids down and no wet diapers. They gave him some Zofran and he was able to hold a gatorade down. So, they let us come home, he slept all night, had some sprite this morning and ate some bread. So far he is doing great, playing, and asking to go play choo choo at mimi and poppy's house. LOVE this boy!!! Let's see, more about Zachary, he loves playing with cars, trucks, etc. He loves brocolli; which is so funny to me that a 2 yr old loves brocolli. He'll actually eat my brocolli on my plate if I don't eat it first. He cracks me up!!!! He's talking ALL THE TIME!! He has always been a talker, but I couldn't always understand him and now I pretty much understand him all the time now. His language skills are developing so fast. He knows all the colors, learning manners, and learning his numbers (he knows, 1,2,3,8,9,10). I love hearing him repeat them; it's so sweet to my ears. He loves being outdoors, loves torturing the dog (HAHAHAHAHA), likes to get up at 7 AM, is getting really good at going to bed on his own, enjoys Sadie, and overall a great kid. Zachary, we love you so much and so glad that you're apart of our family also!!!!!

Overall, we're doing great! We've been in our house for about 6 months now and feel so blessed at where God placed us. Our neighbors are great and I've enjoyed visiting with them and getting to know them.

Thank you, Lord for all your blessings!!!

Pink Bear

2011-08-15T12:28:00.000-05:00

If anyone has been around Zachary; then you know just how special "pink bear" is. Pink Bear is a purple bear that Zachary absolutely just ADORES! This is his true "lovie" as they would call it, but to him, his BEST FRIEND!!!
Pink Bear goes everywhere with us and when you're talking to Zachary; he will immediately put pink bear in your face to meet his beloved bear. He cracks me up!!
Well, Pink Bear was starting to smell like a rotting bear. Zachary likes to try to share his food with him, he's been dunked in the toilet, he's been dunked in the dogs water bowl, he has tried to feed him yogurt, he has given him his apple juice.............you get the point! :)

Since Pink Bear was sooooo stinky; it was time for his first official bath in the washing machine. Here are the pictures of before and after the famous bath for pink bear. ENJOY!!!!

This is a common scene with Pink Bear and Zachary

Here is Pink Bear in the laundry basket with Zachary's clothes that are going to be washed.

I let Zachary put Pink Bear into the washing machine - he loves to help with the clothes!

Here is pink bear in the washing machine with the soap and the water filling up the tank.

Zachary didn't want to shut the doors at first, but then decided that Pink Bear would be okay and he went off to play. However, he didn't forget that Pink Bear was in there & would ask occasionaly for Pink Bear.

Here is Pink Bear ALL CLEAN! Zachary immediately smelled Pink Bear and when he didn't smell "right", he looked at the face to make sure it was his bear. He accepted the face & was just so excited to have him back. He has been touching noses with Pink Bear and carrying him around ever since. He's soo happy & it just cracks me up that he can love this bear so much.

Here's to many more years with Pink Bear!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-08-07T13:06:00.000-05:00

Just venting.....continue if you want; otherwise, just leave now. :)

Okay, somethings just don't make any sense to me. For example, my brother has his kids 2 months out of the summer and he doesn't see them that much b/c he works, we go out of town, etc etc. However, he goes out on dates with his girlfriend when they are IN town?! Why? Are priorities out of whack, yeah, I think so. Does it do any good to say anything, nope! So, this is where I'll choose to vent b/c no one else cares to hear anything anymore about it. But, it bothers me b/c he works FT and doesn't get them during the day. Then, he's selfish enough to leave them in the evenings when he can be with them. Messed up in my eyes!

Okay, enough said.

Van Alstyne Fun

2011-07-04T09:19:00.000-05:00

We had a fun time in downtown Van Alstyne this past Saturday morning.
We ate watermelon, we watched a gun slinging & saloon shooting show, rode a stagecoach, and just had an overall fun. We also thanked several Vietnam Vets for their service & how humble they were when thanked. Thank you again to our men & women for their service, for those currently serving, and for those that have died for our country. THANK YOU!!!

That night we went back to watch their firework show & it was GREAT! Zachary was a little scared at first at the actual "boom" sound, but then when he realized that he was safe; he starting saying, " BOOM, BOOM!" He loved it!! Sadie didn't cry, but just sat there in her daddy's arms and watched the fireworks too.

Overall, what a great day!!!

Caleb, Caitlyn, Zachary & I all rode the stagecoach - it was very cool b/c it was a Butterfield/Overland Stagecoach. Go over to my mom's blog & she can tell you the story from when she was a little girl - MOM'S BLOG

Here is Miss Sadie sporting her 4th of July clothes & bow. Her bow says," Proud to be an American" Her onesie says, " Mommy's Lil Firecracker" She is a whopping 4 months old TODAY!!!

Here is my mom giving some ppl our e-mail addresses to actually send us all these pictures. Thank you, Elton & Bonnie!!!! We forgot the camera in the car....OOPS!

Here is the driver of the stagecoach in position!

Love this shot with the horses in the front pulling the coach. Fun day was had by all!!!

Sounds of Summer

2011-07-02T16:22:00.000-05:00

Nope, not talking about a band playing, but the sounds of all the bugs! I would have to say that is one of my fave things about summer. As I sit here typing, I can hear the cicadas outside our living room windows. Another one of my fave things are the frogs that really get to going at dusk. I loved having our pond at our other house b/c you could always hear the frogs & here, well, I don't have that piece of me. We do have a neighborhood lake and they do have frogs, so anytime I want to hear the frogs; then I can go down there and sit, wait, and listen to them.

It's interesting to me how cicadas know when it's summer b/c they get going with their noises around the 1st day of summer - amazing how/why God created that. I would assume for when there wasn't a calendar & it would tell them that it was about to get HOT & no rain! :)

Our noisy cicadas!

Our slimy bullfrogs!

Sidewalk Chalk Fun!!

2011-06-29T14:41:00.000-05:00

Zachary and I went outside yesterday for fun with chalk!! All the scribbles are from him & of course, the names are from me. He had a lot of fun playing with the chalk.

This was some more of his drawings, he is sitting on part of his drawing. :) HAHAHA

He got all excited with the picture taking & wanted his picture taken some more, so here is the last shot of him with the chalk drawings. :):)

Father's Day Treats

2011-06-28T13:00:00.000-05:00

This is totally late b/c I've had a LOT going on lately, but see below for my mom's 60th Birthday Bash!!!!!!

Happy Father's Day to my husband and my dad (poppy)!!!!!!!!

I each made them their fave treats:

Here are the cards that Zachary & I made for daddy. It's hard to see it in this picture, but I spelled Les in pecans on top of the pecan pie before I baked it. It was soo yummy and Les ate all of it except 1 piece that I actually got to enjoy! :)

My dad asked for a coconut cream pie - I have to say, I out did myself on this pie. It was so delicious and rich. Everyone that had a piece was instantly IN LOVE with this pie!!!!! I can't wait to make it again b/c it was so yummy.

Can I tell you something?! I am IN LOVE with Paula Deen now!!! LOL I used her homemade coconut cream pie recipe and EVERYTHING was made from scratch including the whipped cream on top. It was the BEST pie that I have put in my mouth & there were definitely NO complaints!!!!!!!! Just asking for 2nd's.........HAHAHA

Once again, Happy Father's Day to all the dads out there - just know that you're appreciated more than just 1 day out of the year. We love you, daddy & poppy!!!!!

June 25th

2011-06-28T12:52:00.000-05:00

That day was actually this past Saturday and it was a Jesus Day! My mom battled breast cancer again this past year & had to endure chemo this round - that was a 1st and we pray - the last time!

Well, June 25th was my mom's 60th B'day - Praise the Lord that we had her around to celebrate another b'day. I know that I am so thankful for her & that God has given us more time with her.

Here are just a few pictures from the BIG day!!!!!

Happy Birthday, Moochie!!!!!!!!! I love you (more!). :)

Here is the Birthday Girl w/ flowers that her brother, Larry, sent to her - they were absolutely BEAUTIFUL!!!

Here she is with the b'day cake that I made for her - it was a HUGE hit.

The bottom layer of the cake was choc cake with choc mousse and the top layer of the cake was a white cake with homemade raspberry filling. YUMMO!!!

Here is the b'day girl with her sign that I made for her. :)

Here is a close-up up the flowers!!!!!!!!!!

Here is Sadie in her party dress - she looked ADORABLE!!! Pretty in Pink

3 months + a few weeks!

2011-06-16T12:42:00.000-05:00

Well, as they say," Better Late than Never." :)

Our little girl is already 3 months old & has been for almost 2 weeks now. I was just delayed in getting the pics uploaded to the computer, but here are some of her most recent pics (below).

Let's see, she's smiling a TON and really developing a fun little personality. She is sleeping at night & usually only wakes up 1 time. She weighs a little over 10 lbs (as of last week). She is still seeing the hematologist & probably will for some time. She goes next week to have her blood checked. She got 2 weeks off this time in between her blood checks. She's still nursing exclusively & has recently decided that she's going to suck on her hand - still no paci either. So, looks like she might be a thumb sucker, but we'll see as she grows!

3 months

3 months (after a bath in her pj's)

CRAZY hair!!!

then I decided to try different bows, etc - just having fun playing with her hair!

ladybug hair clip

pigtails and her sunglasses

Zachary and Sadie!!!

Daddy & Sadie!!

I woke up to this one morning - he was COVERED in desitin; along with his wall, bed, toys!!

Here is his new toddler bed!!

He put all his animals on his bed - sooo funny!!!

2011-05-22T18:01:00.000-05:00

We had a GREAT time last night - thank you for coming if you came!! :)

We stayed almost the whole time last, but left about 5 minutes before it was over. I'm glad that we did b/c In n Out was packed & we didn't have the fight the crowd from the game added in too.

We went to church this morning & right before "big church" started, Diane came & got me saying that Zachary had a fever. I was like," really?" I was shocked b/c he had been feeling just fine. Sure enough, when I walked in he was not feeling good at all. He came with me and I gave him some tylenol & he fell asleep on Les. After I nursed Sadie; then I took the kids & left. I brought them back to my parents' house so that everyone else could stay and enjoy the service. Zachary ended up falling asleep in their bed for about 2 hours. Poor baby! He's feeling better this evening, but still some fever; which is his only symptom for now. Hopefully it'll pass fast & he'll be fever free!

Have a good evening & be safe w/ the storms a brewing out there!!!

Football Mame

2011-05-21T14:02:00.002-05:00

No, I didn't type it wrong - this is how Zachary says it!! :)

Tonight after our HOA social/clean-up/meeting; then we're heading up into Allen to see the Allen Wranglers play tonight at the AEC. Zachary LOVES sports, so he has been asking everyday for over a week yet if it's time to go to the game. So, we have been counting down the days! Today he was SUPER excited when I told him that today was the day for the football game.

I'll try to take some pictures at the game tonight, so stay tuned!

Enjoy the day & praise God for another breath of life!!

Discharged

2011-05-20T14:43:00.000-05:00

Miss Sadie was discharged from her GI doc yesterday. What an exciting day it was for me! :) We were going there b/c she had a very high bilirubin, but the thing is; it's not the normal jaundice that goes away with light therapy. She was taking a medication to help get the sludge moving out of her gall bladder and get that bilirubin down. The last 2 visits it has been normal & Dr R said," I'm going to have to say goodbye now." While we just love the guy - so nice, compassionate, gentle, etc; what a BIG praise for my little girl. Dr R said," you told me in the beginning that it would do this and I believed you. That's why I didn't run all those expensive tests." Praise the Lord!!!

We will still be seeing the hematologist for a while, but that's okay! We love Dr C & have been seeing her since Zachary was born, so we have a very good relationship with her. Her & I talked several times during my pregnancy with Sadie when I was worried about something. If you ever need a Hematologist or GI doc - you call me! Sadie does have 4 weeks off from seeing the hematologist, but does have to go back in 2 weeks for blood work. She has actually gone up by .2 since the last visit 2 weeks ago; which is a HUGE praise b/c that means that she is MAKING her own red blood cells now. Which also means; more than likely, NO MORE BLOOD TRANSFUSIONS!!! I just keep praying that this is the case & if so, she's JUST like her big brother! So, 3 & that's it. Time will tell especially when we go back in 2 weeks. If it's still up where it was this last time; then that's pretty much a sure sign that blood transfusions are over & in our past.

I hope to blog more b/c I have really missed it, but I have been busy with Zachary & Sadie. They're definitely worth having my attention & then Les gets my attention at night when he's home!

We have also been working on getting our Lucas house on the market, so sometime in the next few days (once our Realtor has a sunny day for pics). He's hoping for Monday, but really all depends on the weather! We have filled out the paperwork and gave all that to him today.

I'll leave you with a few pics.....just one........we're about to get hit with a severe storm. ENJOY!!!!

2 months old.........already?!

2011-05-10T21:58:00.000-05:00

Yep! Our big girl turned 2 months old last week, May 4th. I can't believe it.

Let's see, she weighed in at 9 lbs 1.3 oz at her check-up. She was in the 25th precentile for both height and weight - I was proud!

She's still breastfeeding exclusively & does not want a bottle. She'll just fuss & fuss till she gets what she wants. She also doesn't want the paci, so she goes al la natural..... :)

Zachary loves her so much & I think the feeling is mutual. She is now awake some throughout the day & she just watches him, reaches for him, and even grins at him. He enjoys watching her, laying by her, kissing her on the head, helping with her, etc. He's a very big helper!!!!!!

Her grin just melts my heart & I just love it when she grins!

Here are some pictures of our big girl along with a few others over the last month. :)

Family picture w/ the bluebonnets up at Eisenhower State Park

1st bath together - he wanted to help bathe her. Such a sweet big brother!!!

She loves bathtime!!!

Here they are at the 2 month check-up - they just adore each other. This makes me SOO happy b/c if you read a blog before she got here; I was upset w/ not knowing how they would do together, my time split between them, etc. My heart overflows with love for our completed family!!

2 months old!!! (9 wks)

Another "pose" - Aunt Donna made this blanket for me - it worked perfectly as a background for the picture since she's in pink!!

This was before they got in the bathtub - getting ready to get their clothes taken off to get in!

7 wks old - She was grinning - it was really sweet!!!

7 wks old & grinning real big again!!! This blanket was made by Becky Gardner - thank you!!!

Here is a pic of me, my mom, and Z with 4 of the Allen Wrangler football players!!!

I layed Sadie down to enjoy this toy & Zachary immediately got under it with her.

He had just kissed her (his lips are still pursed). We were all 3 on our bed & playing in there. We had been playing a few little games with Sadie & singing to her. :)

Hope you enjoyed the pictures!!!!

Check out my photo on Parents.com

2011-05-07T05:32:00.001-05:00

Hi Everyone, You have been invited to view my 2011 Parents Cover Contest photo gallery on Parents.com. Please use the link below to view, rate, and recommend my photos!

Vote for Sadie!!!!!

Gallery Link: http://www.parents.com/photos/photo-contests-1/2011-parents-cover-contest/4030300001

Thanks!!!

Kimberly

--
Pampered Chef Consultant
www.pamperedchef.biz/kimberlyskitchen10
214-405-3924

www.kimberry25.blogspot.com

1 month

2011-04-04T21:32:00.000-05:00

REALLY?!?!

I can hardly believe that Sadie is 1 month old.

She has had 2 blood transfusions so far & I'm hoping that's it, but I think she'll need 1 more before it's all said & done. God only knows though! I'm putting my trust in Him & know that she's in the BEST hands that she can be in - His hands.

She weighs 6 lbs 14 oz, and almost 20 inches long now. She is eating, sleeping, and pooping very well. She is going most nights now about 4 hours in between feedings & that has been going on for about 4 nights now, so I hope that's the new night stuff.

She is currently breastfeeding only & doing great with that so far. YAY! It's definitely very cost efficient (FREE!!!) for now. She does NOT like paci's & will just spit it out or gag on it if offered to her. She did suck on a paci better in the beginning, but now she wants NO part of it.

She enjoys swinging & so does Zachary. Yes, he is crawling up in the swing & latching himself in.........quite funny for sure!!! We keep encouraging him to swing his babies instead of climbing in himself, but that only works most of the time.

She doesn't know that she's wearing bows, but I think it's hilarious b/c Zachary will actually put the bows on it. It totally cracks me up!!

1 month old

1st bath - she was about 2 wks old - Zachary was being a sweet big brother & helping MiMi give her a bath.

She's about 3 wks old here

I can't remember if I have any OR pictures on here, so here are Les & I after she was delivered. I think that I was all done with surgery at this point & just getting cleaned up. Les & Sadie were getting ready to leave to go to the nursery. She was in the nursery for all the fun pictures & then off to the NICU after that. They had a NICU RN in the OR to examine her once she was delivered. Once the neonatologist came in to see me in the recovery, my question was," What is her hemoglobin?!" When he told me it was a 7.6; then I knew right then that she had the trait & I cried. Not that I was dreading the course it put us on, but I knew what the path held for Miss Sadie.

Here is daddy & daughter - 1st picture together!!!

Zachary & Sadie

St. Patty's Day!!

Here is a picture of Zachary after he put this big flower on - CRACKED ME UP!!!! He is such a ham - oh my gosh. :) Love this kiddo!!!!

Hope you enjoyed the pics that I put up - thanks for reading the blog. :)

my kiddos

2011-03-19T11:53:00.000-05:00

Sheesh, does time really have to fly by so fast?!

My boy just turned 2 yrs old last Friday & we celebrated at home w/ cake & ice cream w/ the grandparents from both sides. It was nice to have both sets there to enjoy in on the fun celebrating our big boy's 2nd b'day. We love you, Zachary!!!!!!

He is doing amazingly well w/ Sadie & I'm so proud of him. I thought it would be harder for him to adjust, but really, so far he's done excellent. He's talking so much these days & it's hard to keep him quiet.......LOL I just love to hear him learning new words literally EVERYDAY! He loves to have his hair fixed w/ mousse in it. He loves to be outside. He loves candy! He loves his train table. He likes to bite or pull the dogs hair/ears, etc. He enjoys going down slides. I could go on and on about our little guy. Just love him so much & he's been such a great little helper now that the baby is here.

Our little lady Sadie turned 2 weeks old yesterday, really?! She had her 2 wk checkup yesterday and she had gained 4 oz in about 4-5 days. She is nursing exclusively for now & I really hope to make it as long as possible with her. She slept 4 hours or so at a time last night & it was wonderful! I feel great today - YAY!!!!

Both of their rooms are painted at the new house & the kitchen has been painted RED; which I just love! We're planning on actually living over there by next Thurs, so we'll see how much we're able to get done next week in between doc appts. :) I'm getting very excited, but the change is also kind of scary. I just love where we live now & I'm starting to adjust some as we work on clearing the house out. I know that it will feel more like home once we're over there & all moved in w/ boxes gone & everything put up. However, right now I am already missing our current home & I'm STILL living there. I like change on smaller things, but this is a big thing. I know that we need more room & that God has directed our paths to this place - absolutely no doubt on that at all. So, here is a hoorah for the new house!!!!!!!!

I need to download the pictures that I have on my camera b/c we've gotten some really cute pictures of the kids.

Have a great weekend & get out & enjoy this beautiful weather!!!! :)

Coming Home!!!

2011-03-09T22:15:00.000-06:00

Here is our sweet angel coming home with us yesterday. :)

She is actually sitting here next to me right now as I type. She's usually wide awake from about 9 PM till her next feeding & then goes down for several hours. We'll see how long she's on this schedule. :) We had a great day today as our 1st day home & I couldn't have wished it any other way. Zachary is definitely liking her & wants to kiss her still, pat her head, and mostly - watch her sleep while in her bassinet. It's really sweet, but trying to monitor him so that he doesn't decide to throw something in there with her or accidently tip the bassinet by chance. Hope you like the picture!!!

SHE'S HERE!!!!!!!!

2011-03-07T19:19:00.000-06:00

Les & I are proud to announce the birth of Sadie Jewell Cornelius!!!! She was born on Friday, March 4, 2011 at 7:59 AM. She came by c-section & we're so glad that she's here. She's an absolute doll & once I download pictures from my camera; then I will post some. She has a tremendous amount of hair & the color is a goldish brown (BEAUTIFUL!). I am already madly in love with her & just can't get enough of her. However, our time with her is limited b/c she inherited the Thalassemia trait from her daddy. There was a 50/50 chance that she would inherit it like her brother & she did. She's doing great though! She had her 1st transfusion today & we're hoping that she gets discharged with me tomorrow sometime. The doctors have said that it all depends on the blood work in the morning. So, we'll see, but I am comforted that she is in the BEST Hand's possible - Our Father in Heaven. He knows what she needs & we're just trusting Him.

We can't tell you enough how much we appreciate the visits, calls, e-mails, texts, etc. Thank you for thinking about us & praying for us as we start the newest chapter of our lives with 2 kids and a new house that we're working on moving into. Talk about a lot going on!!!! LOL I know many have called me & I apologize for not returning the calls or texts everytime, but we're nursing every 3 hours. Know that I have received every call/text & I say," Thank you! Love you! I will eventually call you! :)

Oh how I love thee...

2011-02-14T21:27:00.000-06:00

ZANTAC!!!!!!!!! I know you thought that I was going to say Les or Zachary or Little Miss C, but no, my new best friend is Zantac. As of right now I have been taking it for about 1 week now or less, but what has it done for me??!! I can now sleep w/o feeling like my throat was going to burn up. I knew I had enough of the heart burn when I actually choked one night when I was sleeping. The acid literally burned my throat for the rest of the night & a little bit the following day too. I have been having heart burn the last 3 weeks or so. I haven't ever had it like this before, so the Wive's Tail says," if you have heart burn in the last 6 wks; then your baby is going to have a lot of hair." It was true for my mom when she was prego with me, so I can't wait to see if it's true for MY little girl. I only have 3 weeks left till she gets here & I can hardly wait. When I was born; I literally had hair that was an inch long or longer & I NEVER LOST IT!!! Today I had a moment where I was so excited about meeting her that I almost couldn't contain the excitement that was building up inside of me. I don't know how to express the feelings that I was having, but believe me, I know the next 3 weeks are going to FLY by! I can't wait to hold her in my arms, love on her, cuddle her, hold both my babies at 1x, see Les with his daughter, etc. I get all giddy like a teenager holding a crushes hand for the 1st time. I love it & I love her so much already!!!!!!!!!

Well, I'm going to go and take my new best friend who is pink, small, but does a wonder on that acid for me. :)

Silly Boy(s)

2011-02-05T08:48:00.000-06:00

I decided to post some more pictures of what's been happen' around the Cornelius household the last month (Z will be 23 months in 6 days). These are in no particular order, but I hope you enjoy looking at a few pictures. :)

Les has discovered that the dog LOVES flying on the "airplane" (NOT!). Then as he's got her in the air; Zachary likes to crawl between Les' legs & it's just too funny. Kodi usually has this scared look on her face, but she's getting used to it since it has become a frequent happening for her!

One day Zachary started taking off the pillows & arm rest covers off the couch and covering Kodi. So, here is a picture of her kind of covered - he was very proud of himself. :)

Not sure what's going on here, but no one is crying, so all is well. ;)

This was in Galveston. Zachary kept pulling his pj pants up past his knees. My mom & got a good laugh at him. So, this is the front of him and below.....

is the backside. He looks like a little old man with his socks pulled up and his pants pulled up looking like shorts.

You ask," what is on his feet?!" Well, he thought this was HILARIOUS and had wipes on his feet. Not sure why this was so much fun, but it kept him occupied, so yeah, we're having fun!

I had my feet propped up on the couch one night in Galveston & Zachary crawled up there to be like mommy. I was glad that we got a shot of it - I thought it was sweet of him to sit with his mommy.

No we're not actively potty training, but we do keep his potty in the bathroom. It's been in there for several month now (I think). I wanted to start getting him used to it b/c he wanted to sit on our toilet, but it kind of scared him b/c of how wide the seat is. So, that's when we bought him a toilet. It took a while before he would sit on it, but then one day he sat on it with his clothes on. Now, he wants to sit on it w/o his clothes on. He knows exactly what to do in, but hasn't gotten anything in it yet. We're not pressuring him at all & just offer when he cues. He likes to have a Guidepost Magazine while sitting there. For about a week now, he has been wanting to sit on it everyday. We're definitely making progress, but no pressure for him. :)

Everywhere that we go, the hat is sure to follow.......:) He loves wearing the cowboy hats & we always have one around somewhere.

This was our picnic inside a few days ago since we've been homebound with all the ice/snow. We put out a few blankets & he ate his spaghetti for lunch one day in his Curious George PJ's. A little messy, but it was fun to have a little bit of a change of scenery.

Galveston Trip!!!!

2011-02-03T13:46:00.000-06:00

A few weeks ago, me, my mom, & Zachary went to Galveston for a few days. My mom was feeling better since she is recovering from her chemo. I only had a few more weeks till I was no longer allowed to travel, so off we went! We had so much fun eating seafood, going to the fresh seafood market (right at the bay), walking along the beach & collecting a few shells, eating seafood, eating ice cream at this huge tourist shop & dancing to the music, driving around looking at everything, eating seafood, watching a few movies & just relaxing, etc. Can you tell that we LOVED the seafood part?? Oh, I know one day we even walked this jetty that was over a mile (to/from the end of it). Needless to say, it took us over an hour b/c Zachary was walking it too. The weather was nice & not windy, so we enjoyed our walk. We say porpusis/dolphins and that was sooo cool!!!!!!! When I told Les he said," were they wild in the ocean?" I said," Yes, it was GREAT!"

Here are a few pictures from our trip - enjoy!!!!

Here are Zachary & I eating our ice creams.

Here is Grammy & Zachary eating their ice creams.

Here is a hotel that is all damaged from the past hurricanes. The first floor is completely gone. There are various windows that are knocked out, but I couldn't get everything from where I was taking the picture.

Here we are after eating our ice cream - the ocean behind us.

HAHAHAHAHAHA - this makes me laugh so hard!

Here we are in the car - not sure where we were going or what we were doing.

Here is a picture of the cold front approaching - it was NASTY looking. It approached so fast & then our temps dropped!

This was on our way down to Galveston. I had my feet propped up on the dashboard, so here is Zachary trying to copy me. He has his little feet in the air too. He's a cutie!

Here we are downtown after we left the fresh seafood market & Zachary is talking to his daddy as we start our drive home.

Here is Zachary trying to put Grammy's hat on. He is so funny!

This was the 1st morning. They were up in bed watching TV.

Here we are on the Ferry - we rode this 2x b/c he loved it so much. This night was very cold!!! You can see the moon behind us, so that was neat seeing it reflect in the ocean.

Poem

2011-02-02T19:23:00.000-06:00

I have been contemplating on when to post this poem that a friend of mine put on her blog months ago. The first time that I read this poem; I cried through the whole thing. I had been feeling EXACTLY this way about our new baby girl. As we get closer to her arrival; I am preparing myself to share my time with Zachary, but honestly it does not make it any easier and as I read the poem again today; I cried. Am I excited about Miss Baby C - YES!!!!!!! I can hardly wait, but I can't help but think of my little Zachary and how this is going to affect his life too. Will it be rough in the beginning, absolutely, but I just keep telling myself that he & I will adjust to this precious little girl.

Here is poem:
I walk along holding your 22 month-old hand, basking in the glow of our magical relationship.

Suddenly I feel a kick from within, as if to remind me that our time alone is limited.

And I wonder, how could I love another child as I love you?

Then she is born, and I watch you.

I watch as the pain you feel at having to share me as you have never shared me before.

I hear you telling me in your own way, "Please love only me" and I hear myself telling you in mine "I can't".

Knowing in fact that I never can again.

You cry, I cry with you.

I almost see our baby as an intruder on the precious relationship we once shared.

A relationship we can never have again.

But then, barely noticing, I find myself attached to that new being, and feeling almost guilty.

I'm afraid to let you see me enjoying her — as though I am betraying you.

But then I notice your resentment change, first to curiosity, then to protectiveness, finally to genuine affection.

More days pass, and we are settling into a new routine.

The memory of days with just the two of us is fading fast.

But something is replacing those wonderful times we shared, just us two.

There are new times — only now we are three.

I watch the love between you grow, the way you look at each other, touch each other.

I watch how she adores you, as I have for so long.

I see how excited you are by each of her new accomplishments.

I begin to realize that I haven't taken something from you, I've given something to you.

I notice that I am no longer afraid to share my love openly with both of you.

I find that my love for each of you is as different as you are, but equally strong.

And my question is finally answered to my amazement.

Yes, I can love another child as much as I love you, only differently.

And although I realize that you may have to share my time, I know you'll never share my love.

There's enough of that for both of you — you each have your own supply.

I love you both and I thank you both for blessing my life.

—Author Unknown

30 weeks!

2011-01-05T14:15:00.000-06:00

I figured while Zachary slept; that I would update my blog for today's post - 30 weeks & counting. :) Here is my 30 week belly shot, so I think that I am looking pretty darn good for being 30 weeks.

My stats for this week:

*I have gained around 15 lbs - YAY!

*Measuring about 1-2 wks ahead or somewhere around there b/c of the excess fluid.

*I have Braxton Hicks contractions daily. I don't remember having them this often and much with Zachary.

*I am still planning on a VBAC, but it all depends on what my body does between now & 39 weeks (that's as far as they're letting me go!)

*Sleeping well besides getting up to the use the potty.

*I usually take a few naps a week, but don't need them daily again yet. :)

*We still don't have a name - just thought that I would throw that in there too. HA!

Well, I hope you all have a great day & I will try to get another update done of the rest of our Christmas in the next few days.

Happy New Year!

2011-01-03T13:31:00.000-06:00

Les, Kimberly, Zachary, Miss Baby C, & Kodi want to wish everyone a HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!!!

A few things that will be going on this year:
*Zachary will turn 2 in March - can't believe this!
*Miss Baby C will arrive sometime in the next 9 weeks - YAY!!!
*Les & I will celebrate 4 yrs of marriage in October - what a great life we've built!!
*Continue our house looking. Waiting on God to bring that perfect house!
*Hopefully making a trip to Chicago to see family on my side.
*A few vacations somewhere!

We're looking forward to this year & to what it holds!

Wowzers!

2010-12-31T14:15:00.000-06:00

Holy cow, where has the last year gone?! Is it really almost 2011?????

We've had a great CHRISTmas holiday enjoying our family & friends. :) We finished celebrating last night with my family. Christopher's kids finally made it into town 4 days late b/c of the snow storm that the East coast had. We had a great time last night with them & then they leave Sunday. Next time that they come down; they'll have a new cousin. :):) They're SUPER excited about that & that it's going to be a girl this time. LOL

I am adding a belly picture that was taken just a few weeks ago, so I would venture to say that it is a 27 week shot & I am currently at 29 weeks. I figured out that I am actually measuring about 2 1/2 - 3 weeks ahead w/ the fluid. My current guess of when Miss Baby C will come is February 20th - what do you think?! I hope she stays in as long as possible, but I am having Braxton Hicks everyday, but so far NOT effecting my cervix....praise the Lord!

27 week shot

Here is a comparison between my brother & I. As you can tell, he has sympathy weight for his sister....LOL Of course, I have a reason to be where I'm at, but NOT HIM!!! We tease him that he's due before me. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA

Happy New Year's!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Christmas Time!!!!! (part 1)

2010-12-17T21:21:00.001-06:00

I figured that I would do a blog on the few Christmas pictures that I have. We hope that you have a Very Merry CHRISTmas. Remember, Jesus' birth is the REAL reason for the season.

Santa Cow & Zachary - we were picking up dinner for my parents, thanks for Chick-fil-a for providing for them 1 evening. As you can tell, Zachary is in his pj's.

Here is our Christmas tree lit up one evening - I just love it all lit up, but this was really the best "lit up" picture that I could get on my camera. Now that I think of it, I guess I could have used some different settings, OH WELL!!!!

Here is our sweet baby boy with the tree. Do you see that BIG box in the background?! Well, that is Zachary's ATV that he's getting for Christmas. It's so cute & it goes 2 mph. We think he's going to LOVE it since he can't get enough of the 4 wheeler when we bring it out. We always knew that he would have a 4 wheeler before a bicycle. :)

Here is Zachary & I in front of the Christmas tree at the Villages of Allen. I feel like I have grown alot since that picture. Zachary & I were there meeting Santa & Mrs. Claus. We had a good time walking around, playing, & eating sugar cookies.

Here we are with Mrs. Claus. Zachary's holding his sugar cookie from her & was wanting us to open it so bad. After the picture, we opened it up & I stole a few bites too!! LOL

27 wks & 3rd Trimester!!!

2010-12-15T20:55:00.000-06:00

Here is my 27 week belly shot. I have been doing good & went to the doc today for my glucose test. I don't know why I wouldn't pass it, but I should have my blood work results in a few days. I'm not worried about it b/c all has been going well & I feel great. I have been fighting bronchitis for a week or so now, but didn't know it till Monday when I went to my regular doc to be checked out for a persistent cough.

Today at my OB's office, she said that I looked good & baby was measuring bigger. She said that she thinks it's because of how I am carrying her. However, at the perinatologists' office, she is right on schedule, so I think my OB is right about how I am carrying her. I told her that every night I feel like she's all the way forward & that everything is very solid (for lack of a better term) in my abdomen area & that it was very uncomfortable. She said that she'll just keep an eye on that, but that it wasn't affecting my cervix was exactly where it needed to be at the point.........NICE & CLOSED!!! :) I start going every 2 weeks now & can hardly believe that we're already at this point. REALLY?! I can't believe that I have started the 3rd Trimester either. I really can't believe how FAST the pregnancy is going, but excited too. I am looking so forward to meeting Miss Baby C & seeing whom she looks like - I hope ME! ;)

I can't think of any other updates as of right now to report, but just taking day by day while chasing a toddler around & cleaning up after 2 messy boys (Les & Zachary). LOL

26 wks & counting

2010-12-08T21:48:00.000-06:00

Today I am 26 wks & can hardly believe it..........HONESTLY - where has the time gone?! I have an appt with my OB in 1 week & then I start going every 2 wks, really?!

I am feeling good most of the time, but I have noticed that I am beginning to get a little more tired by the end of the day.

My side hurts when I sit too long; which honestly can happen in a matter of minutes....HA!

I am only going to be going to 39 wks more than likely, so that really puts me at 13 wks or less now. I'm so excited, but so nervous too. I just don't know what it's going to be like to go from 1 child to 2 children. Especially a 2 yr old who is already going through the Terrible 2's & a newborn. I know we'll get through it & I'll find the strength.

Hope you all have a great night!!!!!!!!!!!!

500th Post

2010-12-03T20:08:00.000-06:00

Wow, who would have thought that I would get to post 500 - I know I sure didn't when I started this blog almost 6 yrs ago.

Today has been a pretty good day, but I'll preface it by saying that as I was climbing into bed last night, I started feeling some mild cramping LOW in my abdomen. I figured it would go away & I fell quickly asleep. However, I got woke up several times throughout the night w/ Z fussing/coughing, so I didn't sleep very well. When I woke up this morning, I was still having the pain (very mild). I decided that I would call my doc to see what she thought. She wanted to see me to make sure that I wasn't dilating/contractions, whatever! So, I rushed down to her office after my dental appt. (busy day needless to say!). I was fit in to her schedule and was actually seen probably within 20 minutes or so. She checked my cervix & all was the way it should be. She felt my abdomen & it felt good too & no tenderness. Praise the Lord! So, she sent me home & told me to try some Miralax in case, well, nevermind. ;)

Now tonight, I am EXHAUSTED! Have you ever been so tired that you could cry, well, that's me tonight! I just got Z to bed a few minutes ago & about to head that way myself. I actually wanted to call it a night several hours ago, but that's impossible with a toddler around. Now, he's in bed & I'll be there in honestly, 15 minutes or less.

I am 25 wks and 2 days. Moving along very quickly and can't believe that Miss Baby C will be here in 14 weeks or less. I'm so excited & know that I will be really tired (more than tonight) very soon. I know that part will pass, but I am starting to dread that sleeplessness..........HA! I'll make it & it's all so worth it when you see the sweet face(s) of your kid(s). I love her already & haven't even officially met her yet! Oh, I have an anterior placenta this round, so I don't get to feel her as often as with Zachary, but the perinatologist calls her a ninja.......LOL She is a very busy little girl!!!!!

Bye Bye

2010-11-30T17:25:00.000-06:00

Are you wondering what we're saying "bye bye" to?????

About 5 wks ago now, I decided that the paci phase was over & we were going to be doing away with it. We started with 1st taking it away at his nap & that 1st day went so well, that I didn't put it in the bed that night either. He had his burp cloth and was happy as a clam, so no biggy. I let him adjust to that for a week or so & the next to go was the paci in the car. That one was harder, but still not that difficult. I for sure thought that it would be hard, but I'm so glad to be done with it. He was never allowed to walk around with it in his mouth (I can't stand that - pet peeve of mine for sure!!!). So, there was no adjusting to that because he wasn't used to having it during the day anyways.

So, now we've been paci free now for about 5 wks & it's GREAT!

Our next change to make before the baby gets here is to start working on sleeping in the twin bed that is his in room. He has a wrought iron day bed in his room & that's going to be his bed a few months after Miss Baby C gets here. I plan on starting that switch over from the crib to the twin bed at the end of January/February. Then if it doesn't go well, then we still have an opportunity to put him back in the crib for a few more months & then try again. Miss Baby C won't be going into Zachary's room until she's on more of a routine of sleeping through the night b/c we don't want her waking him up every few hours at night. So, that's going to be a play by play once she gets here!! :)

Anyways, Yay for NO MORE PACI's!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :):)

Mom's Home

2010-11-28T09:42:00.000-06:00

I'm so excited that my mom is now home!!! However, Zachary has a snotty nose this morning & I won't be able to be around her until he's better. But, the most important thing is that God answered our prayers & she's home & doing well. She's still recovering, but at least she was well enough to come home & heal from home. So, my dad's job will be to sanitize the house & my job will be to get Zachary better. :)

I want to say a special "Thank You" to those who have signed up to bring food for the month of December. I can't tell you how much that is going to help me out & especially help her out too. Now she won't be worrying about that on the days of chemo and the days following. She has 2 more rounds of chemo & we pray that she's all healed & cancer free.

What a nice Thanksgiving & showing us just how much God loves His children & takes care of them even when we don't understand.

What a Crazy Thanksgiving Week

2010-11-27T09:08:00.000-06:00

Boy oh boy, I definitely didn't picture this week the way it has turned out, but, we just keep praying & pressing on. We know that HE knows why He allows things to happen even when it seems to be a mystery to us.

The week started off great with the arrival of my niece & nephew (brother's kids) from Maryland on Sunday afternoon. Then we saw Santa on Monday & all 3 kids (Zachary included) did great. I love the pictures that I bought of Mr. Z. We played a lot on Tuesday & just soaked our time in with them. Wednesday, I had gotten up and started some of my cooking. Around 9:30 AM my mom called & was very sick. She said that the doctor wanted to see her, so I finished getting dressed & went & picked her up. We got down there around 10:30 AM and we finally got home around 4:30 PM. It was a VERY long day needless to say for both of us. I got a few things done there for her & then headed home. Around 7:30 PM, my dad took her back to the hospital for a fever & we knew that she would be staying. Dr. K had told us that if she would have had a fever while we were there; then she would have been staying & he told us that if one develops; then he wants her to come to the ER immediately. I'm glad that she listened to him once the fever came on. My dad spent Thanksgiving with her & we all went to the Johnson side for Thanksgiving lunch & then Les & I spent the rest of the late afternoon/evening at home just relaxing. I needed to put my ankles up, so it was nice to just sit around the house nice & cozy & rest. So, that's what I did - NOTHING Thursday night!!! :) Friday I watched my niece & nephew & also dragged them through a few stores to get a few things that I hoped to get, so that was fun. My dad & I took the kids to go and say goodbye to my mom b/c as I write this, they are at the airport waiting to go home. :( We'll see them at Christmas time too, but it's always hard to see them leave. Yesterday afternoon, Zachary & I played with the dogs. Then we said goodbye to Caleb & Caitlyn. Now today we have Les' side of the family & I'm looking forward to seeing everyone on that side of the family too. I know that Zachary will have fun playing with his cousins; they're closer to his age too, so that's fun for him!! I have french bread in my bread maker kneading away & then I'm going to make some loaves after that's done, I'm making pecan pie for Les, & then I'm planning on making fudge to take to my SIL, Amy, who likes fudge. ;) My recipe for fudge makes 5 lbs of it, so that part will be done for my goody bags for my neighbors/family.

I just love this time of year of family, food, fellowship, baking, etc. However, we can't forget the REAL reason for Christmas. That's the birth of our Lord & Savior, Jesus Christ!!

Chemo #4

2010-11-16T20:44:00.000-06:00

My mom had her 4th round of chemo on Monday & is doing great! She finishes her last steroid & insulin shot this evening, well, until the next round of chemo in 3 wks. She's been really focusing on resting today b/c I have a check-up tomorrow w/ my OB that she really wants to go to. So, it was stay in bed today for her! My dad & I went Christmas shopping for Zachary. We took him with us to see what all he would like & what he wouldn't like. The item that he hated the most was this gorilla thing that moves its arms & grunts. He was shaking his head NO and trying to get as far away from it as possible. The item that he loved the most was this dancing Mickey Mouse - he loved it! He was clapping, pointing, and moving with it. It was really cute watching him!!!!
Les & I will have to start Christmas shopping soon ourselves for him & all of our nieces/nephews. :)

Good news - I did receive the 50 free cards for my Christmas Cards & I'm so excited! Now I have to decide which one I really love, so hard!!!!!!!!!!!! If I can keep think of 10 things to write about; then that one would be fun & I wouldn't even have to do a Christmas letter - that would be awesome! I hate to just send a picture & not tell what we've been up to, but that's just me. I'm weird like that! :) So, I'm going to start working on that idea b/c I need to get our family picture done first; which will be done once Les gets back from hunting & he has a day off that isn't FREEZING! Last year our pictures at the Village of Allen was on a cold day & it was hard to sit still & not shiver........HA!

I appreciate all the prayers for my mom that have gone up. She feels them & really needs them as do I. I have felt a huge burden lifted since the 1st round of chemo b/c it was really the fear of the unknown & not being there with her to hold her hand or encourage her. I've been able to go to 2 of the 4 & have enjoyed my time with her. :)

Well, I'm going to go and do some laundry now - Z's almost out of socks! Time to do his laundry I suppose. :)

Have a great night & I'll let you know how my appt goes tomorrow at the OB.

Shutterfly Christmas Cards

2010-11-15T20:04:00.000-06:00

I am so excited by this promotion because I have ordered things from Shutterfly before & have not been disappointed by the results.

I am looking at these 3 card designs & think they're absolutely adorable! I love Christmas time & I am so excited to start looking at what my Christmas card design might be this year. It's even more exciting with Miss Baby C on the way too & being able to show my tummy off as she grows. I have alot of family & friends that live out of state, so they don't get to see me often. Here are the designs that I am thinking about; which one do you like? If you want to order your own Christmas cards through Shutterfly; then check ALL of their Super Fun designs out here: http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery

Option 1:
I absolutely love receiving Christmas cards in the mail & once they start coming in; it's so exciting. I get totally in the mood for Christmas & just love the holiday season of baking, seeing family, eating yummy food, etc.

I have already started thinking about putting up my Christmas decorations. I wanted to do it last week, but it's kind of hard for me to lug everything in. :) I am thinking that I might try to get some of the stuff in this week & putting up my lights, trees, & stockings.

I will receive 50 free photo cards for this blog!!! I love specials like these - especially during the holiday season when money can be a little tighter. You can get 50 free cards too: Bloggers get 50 free holiday cards from Shutterfly… sign up: http://bit.ly/sfly2010

I have used Shutterfly over the past few years to develop pictures, make photo books and for Zachary's "1 year announcements". We’ve been very pleased so far with the quality of the products. We love the great selection they offer. They often have great specials when you sign up for their e-mail circulation as well.

Merry Christmas!!!!

I love this design b/c it has the word CHRIST separated as its own word. Since we know that Jesus Christ is the TRUE reason for the Season; then that's important to me.

Option 2:

One thing that Les loves to suck on are candy canes, so I thought this was just super cute!

Option 3:

How fun is this; you can put your Top 10 happenings this past year on the card. I have never seen anything like this & it's super unique. Love it!

Having Fun!!

2010-11-13T14:38:00.000-06:00

We've been busy & having fun all at the same time!

Les & I left last Friday to go deer hunting for opening weekend. It was my first time to actually sit with myself & my rifle. On Sunday morning, I had a great opportunity to shoot my 1st doe, but it was so fascinating looking at her in the eyes in the wild, I didn't shoot. Of course Les said," why didn't you take a shot? You could have had her." I explained that it was the 1st time that I have ever seen a deer about 30 yards from me in the actual wild & not just in a fenced environment where they've been trained to let you pet them. It was just awesome! I had my gun ready, aimed, hammer back, finger on the trigger, but didn't pull it. It's really just unexplainable. After she ran off, I sat there shaking from the adrenaline rush..........soooooooo cool!!! I can't guarantee that the next doe will have that chance to run off. :)

Les will be leaving here in the next few days for another week of hunting where he can still shoot a doe or a buck. Zachary & I will more than likely go and join him for a few days, but it all depends on the weather. It's supposed to get a little chilly next week, so it's just a waiting game. At least the weather will be GREAT for Les, so his chances of coming home with either a doe or buck are great.

I went yesterday and had my hair colored back dark brown. It's darker than what I was expecting, but we did match it to the hair underneath that hasn't been touched by blond highlights & man, it was dark under there! It looks like my hair is almost black, but I know the color will fade some over the next few weeks. I didn't want to have to deal with highlighting it through the holiday season & once the baby got here next year, so back to dark I went. It's still long, so that's what I care about. LOL My dad & brother have very dark hair, so I know I'm close to my "natural." Just getting used to this dark again is the strange part. It's fun to color your hair though, so, why not play with it & try new stuff?!

Tonight I am SOOOOOOOOOO excited b/c we're going to the Texas Stampede at the Allen Event Center; which is awesome already, but then you add Montgomery Gentry to the mix & you have a great night! Zachary is going to have so much fun I think & so will Les & I. I will do my best to take pictures, but we all know how that goes...HA! Last night we went out to the Heritage Days (part of the Texas Stampede). It was a free event for the whole family & we had so much fun laughing & just enjoying our little family of 3. I can't wait to add our newest member to the mix!!!!!! Miss Baby C, we might be getting close to figuring out a name for you, but that's a secret for everyone else till the very end..........;)

Yesterday I made 7 1/2 dozen cookies for a cookie exchange that I went to this morning, so that was super fun. I love being in the kitchen baking, so I was in heaven! :) One of my good & longest friends was hosting it & she knows that I love sausage balls, so what did she make as a side treat for everyone?! SAUSAGE BALLS! I think I discovered those yummy things through her family MANY years ago. Her & I have been friends for, oh, about 21 years. So, thank you, Becky, for the sausage balls...........what a happy girl I was. :):)

Have a great day & enjoy the cooler temps!!!!!!!!!

Woo Hoo!

2010-11-11T22:23:00.000-06:00

I am now at 22 weeks & doing good. I've had a little bit of swelling in my ankles when I do too much, well, that's daily..........HA! I haven't noticed swelling everyday though, so that's good.

Yesterday I had a check-up at the Perinatologists' office. I was there for a 1 1/2 hours trying to get all of her measurements. Whew, I was tired after that! My tummy was cold with all the gel on there in the super cold room.......HA! Even the doc was cold.......LOL My mom & I had a really good time seeing Miss Baby C and she was VERY active. She reminds me of how Zachary was whenever we saw him, tried to get his heart beat, etc. Miss Baby C is weighing in at 1 lb & 1 oz & 12 inches long. They said that she is exactly where she should be, so I was very happy to hear that. They're going to keep an eye on me to make sure that she develops properly & that she doesn't stop growing towards the end. They told me that they probably won't let me go past 39 wks, so the 39th week is March 9th & Zachary's b'day is March 11th............WE'LL BE BUSY TO SAY THE LEAST!!!!!!! I am prepared & ready to go, but I am definitely in constant prayer that Miss Baby C does NOT have the trait that both Les & Zachary carry. I really don't want to endure that again, but at least this time I will be prepared.

I do have pictures of the sonogram from yesterday, but I haven't scanned any of them & neither has my mom or I would steal it from her.........HAHAHAHAHAHA!!!!!

BIG NEWS!!!!!!

Zachary is now 20 months old as of today.......WOW! I don't know where the time has gone. We have so much fun & in fact, today, him & I went & played at a new place and had a ball. The Villages of Fairview opened up a new "beachy" area; which he loved. He loves playing in the sand & man, did he have fun today. He was very busy & played HARD for almost 2 hours. Then it started to sprinkle on us, so I decided that we better head home before it poured; which we did beat, BARELY! :)

Let's see, as far as words that he says regularly:
*my mommy
*daddy
*doggy
*Kodi
*Bye bye
*Night Night
*I love you (in his own version, so cute!)
*Amen (this is said ALL DAY LONG & he wants to pray honestly about 20x a day)
*Nonut (donut)
*Duchess (he tries really hard on this one)
*Zachary (he tries really hard on this one)
*Poppy
*Grammy
*baby or my baby

***This is all that I can think of, but it's also 10:22 PM at night as I write this***
***He literally "talks" all day long!!!***

I know that he understands what a baby is, but I don't think that he understands that we have a baby on the way.

I hope that you have enjoyed the update on our babies!!!!!!!!!!!!

UPDATE!

2010-11-02T15:09:00.000-05:00

Holy Moly, the time has FLOWN by & I haven't written any updates. I have not forgot about my readers - I promise!!!

I am going to be 21 wks tomorrow. I'm doing very well & feel Miss Baby C everyday now. I just love being able to feel her, but last night while I was trying to go to sleep - it felt like she was doing somersaults in my lower abdomen.........HA!

Here are updated pictures of the last few weeks of belly shots:

17 wks

18 wks

19 wks ( I love this pic!!! )

20 wks

I want to do a special 21 wk picture in honor of hunting season (for deer) starting this Saturday - YAY! Stay tuned..... :) If you don't see anything updated on the blog in a while; it's b/c we'll both be busy with hunting this year! I went & got my license the other day & I am really wanting an early b'day present f/ my hubby (he knows what I want!!!!). HINT: It is for my rifle!!! :)

Okay, here are pictures & updates on our big boy, Zachary!!! He's going to be 20 months in 9 days - WHAT, REALLY?!

The events are not in order, but you can see a few of the things that we've been up to!

Pumpkin Patch in Ardmore, OK My mom took Z & I away for a few days & we had a blast. Here we are about to go into the pumpkin patch festivities.

The rope maze - he wasn't too sure about this, but he did go in and run around some.

This was the Corn Crib - he loved it!!!

Zachary & I with the antlers that are hanging on the tree. This pic was taken for Les!

Hayride!

Zachary feeding the donkeys. Let me tell you; this boy LOVES animals!

Milking a "fake" cow.

Posing with the pumpkins.

We finished the Pumpkin Patch before we were ready to head home, so we decided to go North about 20 minutes & go to the Arbuckle Wilderness. Oh.My.Gosh! This is a definite MUST SEE event. I laughed so hard that I literally thought I was going to bust a blood vessel in my eye. Here is me laughing at the camel that is trying to join us in the van. He was trying to get a cup that I had sitting in a cup holder. They're really strong & so funny!!!!!!!

This is Zachary after he was slimed by the cow.......HA! He didn't know what to think of that experience! It definitely got him good. :)

Here is my mom & brother at an Allen Eagles game - GO EAGLES! Christopher & I both went to Allen & we graduated in 93 & 98 (he's older).

Here is Zachary & I in a few of our support items. I bought this bow & decided to wear it, so once Miss Baby C gets here; then she'll have it to support the Eagles too.

Here is some father & son loving!

We went to a Cattle Drive in the Villages of Allen. Here is the beginning of the procession. The motorcycle police lead & were followed by horses.

Then came the Stagecoach...

Then the steer (31 of them in all)....

Zachary was enjoying this so much & just kept waving at everyone including the steer too. He was grinning & having a good time.

Here we are at my cousin's wedding. My mom got her head shaved that morning & she looked stunning! Then of course, Les & I. :)

Here is grammy & Z dancing to the music! He didn't want to eat b/c he wanted to be on the dance floor. The boys got some moves.....HA!

Here is Zachary & his friend, Garrett. We met at the park one afternoon after naps. We fed the ducks & played on the playground. Was a blast!

It was funny, Garrett was covering his legs with the wood chips, so Z stepped in & helped him to cover his legs too! He even tried to put them in Garrett's hair!

I hope that you have enjoyed seeing the pictures! REMEMBER: Don't forget to check back in a few days for week 21's belly shot. :)

Rededication

2010-10-19T15:56:00.000-05:00

I was very excited & can't wait to share the news of what I did this past Sunday at church.........I rededicated my life to the Lord. You might say," does that mean she wasn't a Christian?" Absolutely not, but I feel that I have somewhat "strayed" (for lack of a better term) from where I was back in college. I was so dedicated, witnessed, read my Bible, etc. Now, I am lucky to read my Bible at least 1x a week & I was REALLY tired of that! Les & I have been doing our devotions together, praying together, etc, but I haven't been having my own time with my Savior.

Now that we have switched churches, I have totally realized that I am nowhere near where I once was & I want to get back there & beyond too! As I think over the last 5 yrs; this is where the change took place. I have been going to a church that wasn't really challenging me in my walk. Now that we have changed churches, I am like," whoa, now this is how a church should be!" Do I get my toes stepped on - yes; Do I hear what I need to hear FROM THE BIBLE - yes. It's just a total change and I love it. It is bringing me back to where I need to be every time I hear our Pastor speak. He speaks the Truth & exactly what America has strayed from. Our Country is too far from where we once were too & I am saddened that Christians don't speak up & let our voices be heard, Yes, I am guilty too! I am so glad that Les & I have been led to this church & we look forward to how it's going to continue challenging & growing us in ways that we need to be stretched.

If you don't have a church home & you want to hear probably what our grandparents heard in their sermons; then come on out & be blown away. :) He says it like it is & doesn't apologize for God's Truth.

Has God been faithful despite my role in our relationship...ABSOLUTELY!!! He will always be faithful no matter how far we stray; He will be there to put the pieces of our lives back together again. Thank you, Lord - I love you!

Matthew 10:32-33 Jesus says, "Therefore whoever confesses Me before men, him I will also confess before My Father who is in heaven. But whoever denies Me before men, him I will also deny before my Father who is in heaven."

The last month of fun!!!

2010-10-12T14:50:00.000-05:00

Here are pictures all to do with what we have been up to!!!

The pictures are in NO ORDER........hahaha, so enjoy deciphering!!!

We have been busy; here are a few things that I can remember off the top of my head:
* Found out Z was going to have a baby sister
* Went out of town for a few days to Lake Palestine
* Played in the sand
* Went to the State Fair of TX
* Went to the Big Orange Pumpkin Patch in Celina & will probably go again soon
* Z was discharged from his hematologist (blood doc)
* Been out on the boat
* Played ALOT!
* Enjoying his new roller coaster
* Speaking new words
* Riding the 4-wheeler
* Got to see out of town cousins & aunt/uncle from Chicago
* Hand-painted at church
* etc!!!

We celebrated our 3 yr anniversary last week!!!!

It's funny, if you notice a lot of the Pumpkin Patch pictures - Z was refusing to wear his shoes, so he went w/o for a little while. When he wanted to walk on the rocks; then he quickly came back & wanted them back on......hahahahaha Some battles just aren't worth fighting!

18 wks....almost!

2010-10-11T15:15:00.000-05:00

I'm just 2 days away f/ being 18 wks along, so I thought while I was signed into my blog e-mail address; that I would blog too. :)

Today I had a check-up at the perinatologist office w/ Dr. G. She said that I was looking great, so then we got started on the U/S. Baby C#2 was looking great & moving around like crazy. She worked and worked till she was able to get all her measurements. :) HA! She is weighing in about 8 oz and just growing like a little weed. We saw all her organs and she said that she thought she must have just peed (I guess her bladder looked empty?!). We saw her kidneys, bladder, heart, and not sure what else. It was exciting!!! I go back in 3-4 wks to have her checked out even closer to make sure everything is still developing like its supposed to, but as of today, she looks great & developing right on schedule.

I have pictures from the last several weeks of belly shots, but they are STILL loaded on my camera......LOL I am terrible about uploading them, but I promise to upload some soon & get them on here.

We went out the pumpkin patch yesterday and had a blast, so I'll write more about that later & post pictures too.

Have a great afternoon - Les told me that we're supposed to have a cool front come through later - I HOPE SO!!!!!!!

Our baby!

2010-10-07T21:00:00.000-05:00

17 weeks & it's a..........

2010-10-06T18:10:00.000-05:00

GIRL!!!!!!!

When we first found out that I was pregnant; it didn't bother me one bit as to what we were having. Maybe even leaning towards another boy, but since I don't have God's powers to pick what I want, it was in His hands. At 13 weeks, Dr. T thought that we might be having a girl, so then I started getting super excited by that news. A girl, someone that I can dress up, put HUGE bows on, pierce her ears, share secrets with, teach her how to become a young lady, teach her the ways of the Bible, be her best friend when she needs one, someone that she knows will always love her, etc. You get my point! I want to have the same relationship with her as I have with my mom. My mom is always there for me & I can tell her everything, despite what anyone says. Yes, I do tell her pretty much everything - I trust her with giving me Godly advice & go to her with questions.
I am 17 wks today & feeling it! I have been having some ligament pain, but today has probably been the worst. We went on a short walk this morning, so not sure why that would have bothered me, but it did. I have had short jabs of pain in my left ligament.....OUCHY! So, this evening, when we got home, I came to bed & propped my feet up. I haven't felt it jab me in over 2 hours now........YAY! I guess I inflamed it somehow more than normal, but I am back to myself again. I am ready for church this evening & I am pretty sure there won't be any pain.

Today, is also Les & I's 3 YEAR anniversary! We have known each other now over 5 yrs and I'm so glad that God brought him into my life, despite the moments that I wish to strangle him..........LOL He's a great, godly man, husband, and father. He has come so far since we first met & I'm proud of the man that God has been molding him into the last several years. He desires to read the Bible & I love that about him too! Just a side note, I have prayed for Les since I was 15 yrs old. I know you're asking yourself, but they've only known each for 5 yrs, yes, that is true! I made a commitment at 15 that I would remain pure till I got married & I started praying for my future husband then. Was that path easy, NO WAY, but God helped me through all temptations. Anyways, I want to thank Les for being my hubby & putting up with me too! I know he has his moments where he would like to strangle me too. :) I love you, Les!!!!!

18 months & growing!!!!

2010-09-23T22:20:00.000-05:00

I wanted to do this post this past weekend, but I didn't. I'm sure it was b/c I was lazy....LOL j/k I have been helping take care of my mom & not always at my house to upload pics & take the time to post. However, I would never change taking care of her or just being there with her when she needs me. :) I love you, mom, enjoy the pics & videos.

Here is the poor frog that Zachary wanted to touch and throw around. We released him into the yard and he was GONE!

Here is Zachary playing with the frog.

Zachary & I were making a few pictures & coloring. Well, he wrote on his face too....LOL You can't tell in the picture, but he tried to eat a marker too. :)

Here he is playing on his coupe - he loves this car!

Getting the new toy set-up!

Almost done & Zachary can hardly wait!!!!!

Here he is getting ready to go down the roller coaster for the 1st time. He didn't want to stop going on it......so funny!

Playing with grammy after we got it all set-up!

Here he is - he LOVES this roller coaster toy......:)

Walking down to the pond to get in. Love this picture!

Kodi, Zachary, and daddy swimming with the "kids".

Swimming with daddy in our pond

Now, here are some videos that we have taken - ENJOY!

A few pics before I hit the hay....

2010-09-13T22:30:00.000-05:00

We went & got my mom's wig this past weekend, so if/when she loses her hair; then she'll have something if she wants it. :) One of my mom's friend gave her a long-haired wig to have fun with, so of course, we had fun with it too. Enjoy the pics!!!

Here is Zachary in the long-haired wig & my mom in her wig. He looks HILARIOUS!!!!!

Here is Zachary still in the wig & of course, I just HAD to have my picture taken with him too. He HATED it at first or scared - not sure which. Then he got more used to it & let us take some pictures with it on. TOO FUNNY!!!!!!!!!

Now here is my wonderful mom & her new wig. I think this was before they trimmed it up some b/c the bangs were driving her CRAZY! I love the blond & thinks she looks super cute in it! She was very brave the day we went & picked it up & I was very proud of her. :) Mom, you're an awesome woman & I'm so blessed to call you mom. I love you!!!!!!!

13 wks belly shot!

2010-09-09T21:22:00.000-05:00

Here we go w/ a few belly shots that I haven't posted yet - enjoy!

10 weeks

11 weeks

13 weeks (taken this evening)

I need to work on my photographer's skills..........LOL He either cuts my head off or comes in too close. So, this 13 week belly shot was taken 3 - 4 times before we got a decent picture. :) We'll see what we can do over the next few weeks to get some better shots!

I am feeling good & just beginning to start growing more. Nothing major yet, but I have started filling out some. :)

I am not as moody as I have been, well, for the most part. It is getting better, so I know Les is happy about that.

I received my blood results today for testing of the downs, trysonomy, etc. Those turned out great & had normal results. The measurement the other day of the babies back of the neck turned out normal as well. Then blood work confirmed a good report. I go back in about 5 weeks to have another sonogram & more blood work. I don't know what that blood work is supposed to test, but I trust my Father in Heaven to make everything be well. Our baby was very active the other day when we got to see it & they think it could be a girl; which was very exciting for me! I want to make bows once I know & I already have plans for getting her ears pierced as a baby - I have always wanted to pierce my baby girls ears (if I had one). So, that will be so much fun!

Good news with Zachary today - He has been DISCHARGED from having to go back to the Hematologists' office again. We went for 18 months & 6 months of that was every single week, so this is such a huge step & I'm so happy. It was bittersweet b/c I did tear up when hugging our doctor. She's the sweetest thing & has been so great to us. Thank you, Dr. Cavalier for all that you have done for Zachary & the support that you have shown me on those really tough days. We love you!!!

We praise God for all the good news that was received today & know that He is in control over everything! He has been nothing but good to us; even in those hard days.

Pray for my mom tomorrow b/c she'll be having the port put in; which is what they'll administer her chemo through; which starts this Monday. Love you, mom!

It might be a..........

2010-09-07T22:18:00.000-05:00

GIRL!!!!!!!! The doc wouldn't give us a 100%, but he did look the best that he could. By the end of the appt.; when they were done measuring the baby and checking everything out; then that's when he was trying to see the "parts." But, by the time we got to that point, the baby decided to take a nap & was all curled up. He tried to get it to move so that he could see more clearer, but nope, its going to be stubborn......LOL

The baby was very active & was moving all over the place during the rest of it & that was so fun to watch. Les got to be there to see the sonogram & I was happy about that. :) Zachary was sitting in my mom's lap & next thing we knew, he had fallen asleep; which is TOTALLY not Zachary. It was so cute! He was just a happy & comfy baby & went out. LOL

13 wks - YAY!

2010-09-06T10:57:00.001-05:00

One more week of the 1st trimester & into the 2nd trimester next week. I'm excited b/c so far it's been a good pregnancy. I started out with an agitated cervix & that cleared up right away. She thought that I would have bleeding, but to our surprise, no bleeding or spotting. She said that it just cleared up on its own - YAY! We have seen the heartbeat at 7 wks and then at 11 wks we got to hear it. Of course, the baby was SUPER active, so we didn't get to hear it much b/c it would move away from her pretty much the second that we heard it...........LOL Zachary was always onery (sp?) too, but would hold still a little bit better. Oh well!

Tomorrow morning we are going to see the perinatologist to have the baby looked at & see that the organs are all developing like they're supposed to. Our OB is having us go since Zachary inherited the Thalassemia trait from Les & they want to check this baby. So far, I have opted out of blood work on the baby; which would be taking blood from the umbilical cord. Now, our hemotologist & I were talking the other day about it & she said that if for some reason the organs become enlarged; then she would recommend the blood work. So, for now, we're planning on holding off on that. I think that the nurse told me that they were going to be drawing blood from me & doing a Level 2 sono, so I'm hoping that we might be able to find out what the sex of the baby is - I'll keep you updated! I'm so excited for our appt. tomorrow and even happier b/c Les gets to go with me. :)

Zachary has a busy week too..........poor baby! He has a check-up w/ his hemotologist to have his blood checked & see how he's doing. We've had 6 months off & it's been great not having to go and hold him down while they draw blood. :( Then the following day he has his 18 month check-up - can you believe that he's already 18 months old?! :) My baby is not a baby anymore & looks more grown-up everyday. While he's very independent; he still likes to know where we are & loves getting the occasional hug. I'll share more about him on his actual 18 month b'day (Saturday).

Pray for my mom, she will be having her port put in on Friday & then will start chemo on Monday. We're ready for this next journey & appreciate all your prayers!

Les is doing good - he's been working alot. He's got his hunting license & is ready for November 6th to be here. So, 2 months from today, deer season will open! I'm hoping that I'll get to go, but I told Les that I would wait to get my license until I know how I'm doing as we get closer to opening weekend. I am pretty sure that I'll be feeling good & I went hunting with him 2 yrs ago when I was pregnant w/ Z, but I'll be more comfortable waiting till we get there. :) I'm looking forward to my 1st hunting season as a hunter. My aim is right on & I'm excited to get out there. The big question is: Can I pull the trigger on the deer? I don't know, so, we'll have to wait till I'm out there and in the moment. :):):)

I suppose that's all for now, but check back tomorrow afternoon/evening & see if we know what we're having!!!!!

Happy Labor Day!!!

1st Bowling Trip

2010-08-30T13:21:00.000-05:00

WAS SOOOO FUN!!!!

I wish that I hadn't waited so long to take him b/c we had a great time! Our playgroup went to Strikz in Frisco last week & Zachary had an absolute ball!!! :)

Here are some pictures from our adventure!!!

We had just gotten here & we were getting everything all set up (score board, balls, etc). He was walking around like he owned the place!

Here we are getting our 1st ball rolling - the ball was pretty heavy for him to lift up, so I helped him out. This ramp was awesome!!! They also had bumpers in the alley & he did great.

Here we are after our 1st turn - there is his friend Logan in the picture too! :)

Here's Zachary enjoying some goldfish while his lane mates took their turns.

This ball was pretty heavy, but Zachary still tried to lift it up - pretty funny!

Here he is watching his ball go down the lane! He did get 1 strike & that was exciting!

Z's turn again!!

Here we are watching the ball go down - thank you to those who took pics for us!

Here is Zachary's game - he got a 70!! Not too shabby for his 1st game. I can't wait to go back again, but we want daddy to go with us next time to see the excitement!!

There was a HUGE gameroom, so after we bowled & while we were getting ready to leave; I let Zachary wander around & climb on the games.

Here is Zachary sitting in the car!

Here he is on the motorcycle - he thought this was pretty cool!

After bowling, we went & saw daddy; then went home & crashed! We both took naps that afternoon - LOL :)

Hello!

2010-08-24T17:56:00.000-05:00

Let's see, where to begin?!

I am going to be 11 wks prego tomorrow & we have our check-up to see how I'm doing. I'm excited b/c I think that we get to hear the heartbeat - that never gets old to me! We won't get to see the baby again until October; that's when we're supposed to find out what sex it is. I can't wait! I would like to have a girl, but a boy is good too. :) I am just praying that the baby doesn't have the trait f/ Les. That is very stressful in the beginning & will make for a long few months; especially since Zachary will be going with me to the doc. appts/transfusions. Zachary has a 6 month blood check in about 2 wks & I can't wait to tell his hemotologist that I'm pregnant. :) They're going to be so excited, but of course, I have questions!

Yesterday, my mom received a call from her Oncologist & the cancer is the exact same from before, so now they're ready for treatment to begin. However, 1st they need to put in her medi-port; which is where they'll infuse the drugs that she's going to be receiving. She is going to be taking 1 of her drugs for over a year & we're not sure how she'll be receiving that particular drug. Her & I went to look at wigs today just to see what we thought. Well, I sure wish I had had my camera b/c I was laughing (she was too) so hard that I had tears in my eyes & it made my mascara run. The 1st 2 wigs were not so flattering on her & the laughing helped to relieve some of the stress that had built up. She has a very cute wig that should be arriving in about 1 week or so. It's kind of blondish & short w/ some jazz!! I'm so proud of how she did b/c I think that I would have cried through the whole thing if it were me. The lady that worked with her is a 5 yr cancer survivor & she was so good with us. She was very patient, understanding, caring, etc. Thank you, Cathy! Her & my dad are going to be going out of town for about a week or so before all this "fun" starts. They're going to MS to visit my uncle Larry & travel with him on his boat. They're excited & I'm sure that they'll have a good time!

This afternoon my mom & I went to go get pedicures. It was so nice & my dad stayed with Zachary while he slept. I got HOT PINK on my toes & they're bright, but I love it! She's playing with Zachary the rest of the afternoon & I'm enjoying some time alone & by myself. Les is going to be picking him up on his way home. :)

We visited a new church this past Sunday & really enjoyed it. The pastor is very dynamic & there is no denying that he's on fire for the Lord. It's very contagious! They do visitations on Tuesday night, so we're looking forward to them coming over & visiting us this evening. :) However, I didn't realize that there was a back part of the visitor card, so I hope that they come despite me not filling in that part.....LOL

I guess that's all that's going on right now. I hope that you have a great rest of the week! Let me know how I can pray for you - there is POWER in the prayer & in the blood!!!!

Update!

2010-08-18T20:54:00.000-05:00

My mom had her surgery last Friday to have some lymph nodes removed so that they can test it, figure out her stage, decide what the best course of treatment is, etc. Tomorrow she has an appt first thing in the morning to have her stitches removed (they're VERY fine & I can hardly see them!). Then after that, she has an appt with her oncologist (who she's seen before) to find out all the above answers. I know she's nervous, but despite everything - doing GREAT! We can feel the prayers & they are keeping us all cool & calm. Well, for me, my emotions have been CRAZY with this pregnancy. I told her," I think I cry more than you!" LOL I'm doing great besides being hormonal. Poor Les has to deal with my moodiness & I think I remember it being like this with Zachary too. :( Oh well, it WILL get better - I know it! Thank you, Les, for being so patient & putting up with me. I love you!

Okay, back to my mom. She had been told that she would have a drain put in during surgery to help with the "seeping" lymph nodes, but since they only removed a few; then they didn't need the drain. My cousin, Heather, was the one who was praying for no drain & it worked! A drain wouldn't be too bad, but not fun either.

That's all for now & I will update more once we have the appts tomorrow. Thank you for the prayers!

Mom, you're just a great inspiration & I love you so much! Thank you for the example that you're setting for me & others with your strength (in the Lord), dependence (on the Lord), courage, etc. I can't say enough! You are in HIS hands & He has control over whatever is decided. LOVE YOU!!!!!!

I know, FINALLY!!!!

2010-08-12T21:17:00.000-05:00

I have finally decided to write an update. I always retreat to my family & stay there in a crisis. For ex: when Zachary was born & he was sick - I didn't answer phone calls, hardly responded to e-mails, did not do networking sites, etc. I just focused on him, my Lord, my family, etc. Admitting this lets you know why I haven't updated & why I have seemed distant on my blog. I love my blog, but, I neglect it on ocassion. At least it forgives me........LOL

Okay, so for some updates:

I AM PREGNANT!!!!!!!!!! I am due March 16th - Zachary was due March 24th........LOL So, I'll have the same time period being pregnant & that's fun b/c the clothes, well, the ones that I kept, will still fit & I should be about the same sizes as I was 2 yrs ago. We're very excited & can't believe that another one is on the way!! I knew within a week of conceiving (didn't experience that w/ Z) that I was pregnant w/ Baby C #2. I was immediately experiencing morning sickness & very emotional right off the bat. I told Les, but tried not to jump to conclusions. I took a pregnancy test when I was feeling sick and it was negative. However, I still knew that I was pregnant. So, I waited till I missed my period and took another one and it was POSITIVE! I was somewhat shocked, but so excited too!! :) We saw the heart beat a little over 2 wks ago and that was so exciting. I go back on Aug 25th for another check-up and we're supposed to find out what it is in October. Oh I can't wait for that!!!

Zachary is 17 months now!!!!!!! He turned 17 months yesterday & he's getting so big! He hasn't really gained that much weight since his 1st b'day b/c he's moving & grooving so much. He's so active & I would never guess that he was anemic b/c it doesn't slow that boy down one ounce.........HA! He weighs 21 lbs and 4 oz. He eats pretty well & tries everything. It's funny, the other day he was wanting a bite of my taco, so I let him bite off of it & he got some lettuce in his mouth. He kept chewing, but had the funniest look on his little face. He eventually pulled it out of his mouth!!! So funny! He babbles ALL THE TIME!!!!!!! He knows what we're saying & responds to what we ask of him, what we tell him to do, etc. When he starts talking - watch out b/c he will be talking our heads off.........LOL

My mom was diagnosed with cancer again about a month ago. Tomorrow is the surgery to remove the biggest spot of cancer in her right breast lymph node. There is a spot on her breast bone (sternum) & another smaller spot in the left breast lymph node. The doctor said that her type of cancer is very responsive to chemo, so that's good news. They also said that she has very low volume disease; which means that there isn't a lot of cancer, so that's another good result. We KNOW that God is in control, but I am only human & I have my moments too. I love my mom very much & she's definitely my best friend. I hate that she has to go through this again, but hopefully it will be a quick battle & she'll be on her way to recovery before we know. She went with me to my 1st OB appt & she was able to see the heart beat too. We didn't know how many or if she'd be able to go with me, so she was there. It was neat having her there b/c she was with me almost every doc appt when I was pregnant with Zachary. She was looking for a pink bow, but the baby looked like a little blob with a heart beat!

A few ways to pray for us:
- health for the baby on the way
- quick recovery for my mom
- total dependence on God
- the medical staff who will be taking care of my mom through this journey

Branson Trip

2010-07-18T20:56:00.000-05:00

This time last week me, Zachary, my mom, Caleb & Caitlyn were on our way to Branson, MO. We had a great time! Here are a few pics that I took of our trip:

Here are the kids with the Saloon Girls!! :)

This is one of Les' fave comedians at Silver Dollar City - he has been here for about 2 yrs or so and is soooo funny!!!

Caleb bought a handmade wooden bat at Silver Dollar City & this is the man that wrote his name on it & put a cross on it for him. It was very cool & Caleb thought it was really neat that he got to watch him write his name on the bat.

Caitlyn wanted to dip candles at the candle store at Silver Dollar City. I used to LOVE doing this as a little girl & I still have some of my candles that I have dipped in the past. Caitlyn dipped hot air balloons & made them a rainbow color....very cute!

Here are the kids when we were leaving SDC - Zachary was out in minutes....poor baby was so tired & ready for his nap. ;)

This was at the Dixie Stampede; which is owned by Dolly Parton. If you ever go to Branson; then you have to go to this. It is awesome & the food is Wonderful too!

This was on our drive up there - you have to pass through a mountain, so here is the entrance.

This is at SDC - it's a huge marble that is floating on water & you can turn it. It's pretty cool & the kids enjoyed pushing it.

Here was one night when we ate at Red Lobster. We had a few minutes to wait and the hostess got a lobster out & let the kids touch it. They were very fascinated by it!!

Here is Zachary goofing off in our timeshare. He climbed up under the coffee table thing & sat in this basket......HAHAHAHAHAHA

Here is Zachary at the splash pad. Caitlyn, Zachary & I went to ride the train & play in the splash pad. Caleb & my mom were touring the Marvel Cave. It was SOOOOOOOo hot & we were roasting.

Here are the kids posing before the Silver Dollar Saloon Show - Zachary got kissed...LOL

Here is Zachary & I during the Silver Dollar Saloon show - he was so tired, but was too excited during the show for a nap.

Splash Pad in Fairview

2010-07-09T21:54:00.000-05:00

Well, I don't know if I would exactly call it a splash pad, but there are these fun little fountains & music going. If you haven't seen the show at night; then you have to go for the showing at 9 PM. It is so pretty & very colorful!!

Okay, as usual, I'm not the best at taking my camera and when I do have my camera - I forget to take pics!! LOL Thank you Sarah for taking some pics of my little man. :)

Here you go:

Have a great weekend!! I won't be posting any next week b/c I'll be out of town, but I promise to try to take more pictures of my almost 16 month old (on the 11th). :) Love you, Zachary!!!!!!

Busy Busy

2010-07-07T13:51:00.000-05:00

We've been doing great! It's been a little crazy busy around here the last few days.

We had a great 4th of July & enjoyed 2 firework shows (1 in Allen & 1 in McKinney). Now, the McKinney show wasn't the best that I've ever seen, but it was still fireworks & I love fireworks. The Allen show rocked & was very good. We enjoyed them with several friends of ours. :) Zachary was only 4 months last year and did watch, but had no idea what was going on. This year, he watched them, pointed, and clapped the whole time. He was trying to talk about them, but we didn't understand what he was saying. He definitely enjoyed it though!!

We have a new member to our family for about 1 1/2 wks - Atlas. Kodi is so excited to have him staying with us!! She LOVES playing with him, chasing him, swimming with him, etc. It's hilarious! He's been great so far and we only have a few more days with him, but we look forward to more fun with him in August. :) They have been swimming in the pond & don't like to get out........HA! They have been chasing the frisbee, playing in the yard, barking at the horses, etc. They're definitely having fun together.

My niece & nephew from MD are in town and we have enjoyed having them around. They're going to spend the night with Zachary tonight again and they love it! They should be over here in a few hours to play.

I haven't taken any pictures, but today, Sarah took pictures of Z for me today at the Village of Fairview splash park area. THANK YOU!!!

I'll post pictures once I have taken some......LOL

Oh, one of my very good friends is working on having her baby today! She was induced last night & last that I heard from her she was a 4 and waiting on the epidural. Christy, good luck & we can't wait to meet Miss Ainsley!!! Love you & praying for all of y'all!!!!!!!!!!!

A moment to rest......... :)

2010-06-30T20:51:00.000-05:00

I have honestly NOT stopping running since last Thursday. I have made 3 cakes, been to 3 b'day parties, had 2 pampered chef shows, spoke at a new mom's tea at the hospital about pampered chef & some family friendly recipes, drove to and from Houston, played in several pools between yesterday & today, wow!!!!!!!!!! It has been great and busy all at the same time. :)

I am resting this evening now that Zachary has gone to bed a little while ago. Les had to stay at work late, so it's nice & quiet.

Here are some pictures - enjoy!!!!!!!

Here is a picture of my nephew and his cake. I did a truck for him for his b'day cake.

Here is my niece and her b'day cake - she got Ariel. ;) She LOVES Ariel & I thought that she would really like the cake and she did!!

Here is Zachary eating Garlic Hummus - he loved it. He would just suck it off the cracker.

I found a BRIGHT orange froggy apron at Dollar Tree. I thought it was so cute & that he would be cute in it. AND, he was definitely cute in it. :)

This piggy towel has been passed through the family. My brother's 2 kids both used it (we've had it in the family for 9 yrs). I have a video of Zachary walking around in it and that's really funny to watch. Makes me laugh when I watch it.

Here is Zachary playing with his phone toy and chewing on his burp cloth - so funny!

Here we are swinging at the Celebration Park in Allen. We met our new friends Julie & Jack there. We played at the park, swung, played at the splash pad & then had a picnic. So fun!

Here is Zachary eating cake - he had it ALL OVER!!!!! His cousin Railey is holding him. She played with him at the Allen Splash pad & he loved it!

Happy Birthday, Moochie!!!!!

2010-06-25T14:58:00.000-05:00

Today is my mom's b'day!! I'm so glad that I have her in my life - not sure where I'd be w/o her. She's definitely a blessing to me. She's there when I need her even if it's something odd (like the swarm of the termites), something scary (taking Z to the ER in the middle of the night & knowing she's there with me), something fun (going on vacation together & making FUN memories), etc. She's my best friend & always has my back. Whether we agree on something or not - she's still there for me no matter what. I know that I can ALWAYS count on her & I thank you for that!!!!

In case you're wondering, she is turning 59 yrs old. She has been around a long time too (inside joke between her & I). LOL Mom!! :)

Moochie - we love you & we're so glad that you're part of our family!! I wouldn't want any other mom, but you! You're the best example for a mom & I hope to follow in most of your footsteps. Love you!!!!

Whatcha Think?

2010-06-21T20:29:00.000-05:00

I have a lot on my mind lately - what's on your mind???

Happy Daddy's Day

2010-06-20T14:56:00.000-05:00

Can't believe that you have been a daddy for 2 holidays now!!!!!!! Just think of how much that you've grown & learned since Zachary was born 15 months ago. :) I love watching you love on Zachary, watching you play with him, the way you talk to him, the way that he hugs and kisses on you, the way he grins when he hears you walking through the door, etc. There are so many things that make me smile and I'm thankful that God gave you to us. We love you!!!!!!!!!

Here is a video of Les & Zachary sliding through the living room and kitchen. Zachary just laughs every time that Les does this. :)

Sliding Around (click "sliding around")

Venting Blog

2010-06-19T13:50:00.000-05:00

Yep, I have those too.........LOL

I have been thinking about this particular conversation that happened last Saturday and it REALLY bugs me.

My brothers new girlfriend went walking with me at the Komen Race. While there she says," Have I done something to upset you." I said," well, as a matter of fact, yes." I proceeded to tell her a few things that have upset me the last time that I saw her. Well, she proceeded to tell me a "story" that happened at a school that she had taught at before. It went something like this (I am just cutting to the point), " I don't like that people don't use the chain of commands when there are problems. There are chains of commands for a reason, etc etc." Well, over the last week, I have been thinking about this "story". I'm thinking, did she tell me that b/c she was mad at me for talking to my mom & dad about what had upset me? B/c if she did, then she has NO RIGHT to do that. I don't know her from Adam and she's just another girlfriend in my mind for now. Did she forget to tell me that she went to MY MOM and asked her if she thought that I was upset with her? Did she forget her OWN story about chains of commands. Don't go telling me to talk to you first - I don't know you very well at all and I'm not comfortable with that. I have every right to talk to MY PARENTS when I want to and what I want to about. Whether it is about you, the weather, etc.

I'm done venting now - off to finish my cookies. :)

Lastest sewing project

2010-06-18T21:40:00.000-05:00

Christy - this blog is for you!!!!!!!!!!

For some time now I have had this cute frog material that I wanted to make something with for Christy & I. Both Christy & I have frogs in common b/c her grandpa and my grandma loved frogs and collected them. Whenever I see frogs I ALWAYS think of my G & Christy. I have telling her for MONTHS that I was going to make something and I told her the other day that I had FINALLY thought of something to do with it. Above are the shirts that I made (I didn't make the shirts, just the designs!). :)

This is Cadence's shirt and I started with her b/c she's the oldest of the 3 children between Christy & I.

Second comes Zachary & this is his shirt in black. He couldn't wear a pink shirt.....LOL

And last, but definitely NOT least is Ainsley. She's not technically here yet b/c she's still having fun in Christy's tummy. ;)

Christy, I hope that you like the shirts and I hope that we'll be able to get a picture with all 3 of them in their shirts. You mean so much to me and you know it! Thank you for being a listener when I need an ear. You're a very dear friend & I love you so much. I can't wait to meet Miss Ainsley!!! Love you like a sister!!!! :)

Videos & Now Pics - wow, 2 posts in 1 day. Like the good ole days! HA!

2010-06-17T21:51:00.000-05:00

I use to write on my blog so much and how I miss doing that. As a little girl I used to always have a journal, but was terrible about writing in it. I love writing down my thoughts, but I definitely prefer (and easier) to type them out much better. I do keep a journal for Zachary b/c I think it will be fun for him someday to read it and laugh at stuff or even shed a few tears.

Anyways, back to the purpose of this particular post - PICTURES OF ZACHARY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Kodi & Zachary sharing her breakfast - YUMM-O!

He now "hides" around the room when he has to poop. Here he is on the opposite side of the room as close to the recliner as he can get. At one point he was almost between the wall and recliner. So funny these days!!

Here is Les & I at the dirt track races in Greenville. Mom & Dad, thank you for letting us get out for the night and have a night to ourselves. We had a good time & we haven't been to the races since I was prego in summer of 08.

My parents, Zachary & myself went to Canyon Lake last week. We had a good time and then Zachary & I actually flew home last Wed. It was his first flight and he did pretty darn good. He has a ton of energy and it was hard for him to JUST SIT. He did a good job for being a BUSY little guy. LOL While we were in Canyon Lake, we went down to Sea World. This is Zachary & I posing with Shamu.......he LOVED Shamu!!!

Here is Zachary petting the dolphin. He was able to touch his nose and he really had a good time. We fed the dolphins little fish & it was fun watching them.

This was this past weekend at Lake Lavon. We had been to a party that we went to at Collin Park Marina that evening. It was kind of hot, so I thought it would be fun to take Zachary down and let him play in the lake and sand. He had so much fun in the lake. I forgot his swim diaper, so he just went commando......ha! Here he is throwing the sand into the air. He didn't mind that he was COVERED in sand. It stuck to him even more since him & I had just been swimming. :)

Here he is after he decided to see what the sand tastes like. He wasn't sure if he liked that experience or not. I just stood there and laughed and helped him get it out of his mouth the best I could. Les brought his cup down to let him "wash it on down." LOL He was a great sport & just kept on playing. I guess he liked the taste of the sand so much that he decided to eat it again.......HAHA! I think that we have found a fun new place to go. Last year he "swam" in the lake, but this year he can play in the lake!

Saturday morning, we walked in the Race for the Cure for Susan G. Komen. This is an annual thing that I do. I have a team called Team Moochy. I would love to have you on my team next year!!!!!!!! My team is in Celebration of my mom and her fight against breast cancer.

Here is Zachary with Ronald McDonald - he normally likes people who are dressed up, but he was NOT feeling ole Ronald. He wanted to get away from him, but never did he fuss. Just wouldn't smile......HA!

Here is Zachary & I with the Chick-fil-a cow - he LOVED him! Well, he loved them all!! He couldn't get enough of them and wanted to stay with each character that we ran into. This was taken before the race b/c I am sharing a bananas with Zachary.

Here is Zachary with Sparky the fireman dog. Not quite sure what Zachary is looking at.....HA!

Here he is with Chester the Cheeto. See that big grin - he liked him alot too! He was just all grins with the characters. I appreciate them for coming out and being great sports in the heat! It was pretty steamy in parts of the walk.

Here we are during the walk. We tried to get a picture of him and I walking together, but he was NOT going to have any part of that! So, I was fine with this. :)

New Balance is an ongoing supporter of the event and they had these stickers for under the eyes. I put them on Zachary and when we got home - they were so stuck to his face. He didn't want me taking them off and they weren't coming off. I finally got them off right before I put him down for a nap. I think he liked them....LOL

They had a booth where they were advertising "saving tata's" and this guy cracked me up! There were several guys with these shirts on and I just HAD to get a picture of one of them in the shirt.

Here is Zachary & I after the walk. We had a good time and we look forward to next years event too. Make sure to mark your calendars for next year!!!!!!

Zahcary was sound asleep before we even got out of the garage to leave! hahaha I got him up about 2 hours early this day to get there b-4 they closed the roads. We left our house around 6:45 AM and got home around 10:30 AM. He took 2 naps this particular day; which is definitely not a norm for him.

Hope you enjoyed looking at pictures of what we've been up to the last few wks. :)

Walking Videos

2010-06-17T14:40:00.001-05:00

Okay, this is my first time to use http://www.youtube.com/, so I sure hope that it works the way that I want it to. This was the evening that Zachary literally got up and started walking everywhere! He had no help, just went crazy. :) It was so exciting to see it! I couldn't believe my eyes. He's now been walking for about 3 wks now and it's awesome!!!!! Go Zachary Go!!!!!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bXOH8uJGwyA
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TFt_YNal55Y
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0MRrptj2I_A

I have pictures that I'll post in another blog. :)

Hormones are CRAZY!

2010-06-15T11:57:00.000-05:00

So this is literally the 3rd day without my birth control - we have gone off the pill to start the process of adding to our family. I can already feel a little bit of the effects of my hormones adjusting without the pill. Last night I cried and no one knew it b/c I was sitting by myself..........I'm thinking during that," why are you crying?!" Who knows!!! LOL I am now being flooded by how crazy my emotions were when I was pregnant with Zachary. Now, I am not pregnant b/c we're going to go at least 1 month without the pill to let my body adjust back to the way it is without the pill. Oh man, do I have some fun times ahead of me and Les too (don't tell him though......hahaha). Unfortunately he reads my blog and he'll know soon that my hormones are acting a little crazy on me. ;) He is such a patient man and is great for me! He can take just about everything that I dish out. I love that man so much and so glad that God gave him to me!

Pray for us as we start this journey of "child-making" once again and probably the last time..........2 kids is enough for us, unless God gives us twins! HA! That would be a miracle b/c twins don't run in my family and as far as I know, they don't run in his either. I used to have a HUGE fascination with twins and prayed for years for a little boy first and then twins (one of each gender). Of course, once I had 1 child I began to rethink those ideas and prayers. Of course, I know that God has my life in His hands and only gives me and Les what we can handle. I'm sure glad that HE'S in control of our lives b/c without Him - who knows where we would be. God has blessed us beyond anything in our marriage, our families, our lives in general and we're so glad that He is in the center of us.

Thank you, Lord for all that you do for us. Help us to continue to keep You in the center of our lives. We love you!

Everyone else, have a great day!!!!!! I am hoping to get back to posting more regularly (this is a weird word to spell!) like I used to before having a child. I love to use this as an online journal for me to look back on. I remember when I looked at my very first blog a few months ago I thought," man, I have come a LONG way in the blogging realm." Ciao for now!

15 months!

2010-06-14T22:33:00.000-05:00

Our boy is now 15 months old as of this past Friday. He had his check-up today and he is doing really well. :)

His stats are:
Height - 31" - 50%
Weight - 20 lbs & 4 oz - 5% (he has lost a little bit of weight since 1 yr, but he said that since he's more active now; that's to be expected).

He loves to be outside playing, loves to push stuff, enjoys the pool now, has 12 teeth, has been walking over 2 wks now, has a TON of energy, has curly hair in the back of his head when not cut shorter, loves to give kisses, knows where his nose, ears, and cheeks are. He can also point to them when asked and we're working on more of the face. He loves to touch my eyebrows..........LOL He's not a car sleeper and usually sleeps for an hour maximum.

He's such a sweet boy & loves everyone. He will literally go to anyone that wants to hold him, but he won't stay long before he wants his mommy or daddy. He babbles ALL THE TIME! Once he starts talking - he's going to be talking probably more than me! LOL

I promise to get my pictures off my phone ASAP! Then I'll have pics from this last month to put on here. :)

Why Are We Mean to Each Other?

2010-06-12T17:23:00.000-05:00

I have been thinking about this a lot lately and I just can't stop thinking about why other moms/women, etc are mean to each other. You don't really hear of guys "being mean" to each other. So, why do we do it? I decided to blog about this topic b/c one of my FAVORITE blogs to read Heir to Blair (you can find the link on the right side of my blog). She was talking yesterday about how she has been critized by other woman about things she says on her blog. Background on Blair - she suffers from Post-Partum Depression and she is super honest (which I admire) about her "issues" on her blog and she said that woman will tell her "that she's a terrible mom", "she shouldn't have any more kids", etc. Just MEAN, horrible things. If they don't like the things that she says; then why do they read it and put her down. Blair said in a blog that even her therapist reads her blog and that it's good for her to be able to write down her feelings, thoughts, whatever in dealing with the PPD.

I have talked with Les before about how woman are so judgemental towards each other, compare their kids to each other (good and bad things), etc. It just really makes my heart ache b/c we need each other to lean on, help us through bad times, be there for us, be each others confidants, etc.

I am so lucky that I have girlfriends that I can call true friends. Some live close, some live far, but no matter where they are - they are there for me through thick and thin. Some I have known for 20 yrs and others just a few years. You gals know who you are & I love y'all so much. Thank you for being there for me, letting me cry on your shoulders, thank you for praying for and with me, thank you for giving me sound instruction and the list goes on. Best of all, I know that I can count on you at any hour of the day. LOVE Y'ALL with all my heart!!!!!!!!!!!!

Jesus replied: " 'Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.' This is the first and greatest commandment. And the second is like it: 'Love your neighbor as yourself.' – Matthew 22:37-39

My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that he lay down his life for his friends. - John 15:12-13

Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. It is not rude, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres. Love never fails. . .And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love. - excerpts from 1 Corinthians 13:4-13

Happenings over the last few wks!!

2010-05-29T14:11:00.000-05:00

I have finally taken a pic of me and my new rifle. It's a 7mm - 08. Here we are:

I made my sister-in-laws graduation cake and I wanted it to be a little different. I chose the open book. The school colors were blue & something; then one of Amy's fave colors is purple. So, I combined the 2 and this is the finished product. I used a truffle chocolate square for the graduation cap. I thought that it turned out great - it was a chocolate cake with homemade butter cream icing!!!! Needless to say, I didn't come home with any extra pieces.......hahahaha

I had some left over batter and icing, so I made us a cake to leave at home. After eating a few pieces and knowing that I shouldn't eat too much; I sent it work with Les & they finished it off in a day.

Here is a picture taken a few days ago of Zachary & Kodi in his space ship and tunnels. It's funny b/c the dog isn't afraid to go in there and she'll hide her bones/toys in the space ship part.

Here is a picture of Zachary singing Pat-a-cake. He loves this song and you'll find him "rolling & rolling". He just grins so big when we start singing while he's doing the hand motions, so sweet!!!

I know that this picture is sideways, but everytime that I changed it; then it would go back to this, so I figured OH WELL! LOL Zachary absolutely LOVES playing in Kodi's water/food bowls if he can escape before I find him. Normally he dumps whatever water is in the bowl. Talk about a mess, but most of the time I hear him in the kitchen moving FAST & I know exactly where he is heading.....hahaha

Here he is in the living room. He was playing & I called his name. It was a surprise picture!!! This pic was taken yesterday or the day before, so a very recent shot of him!

Here is Kodi & Zachary playing outside. Can you see that they're both wet????!!!!! We had been playing with the water hose and all ended up wet, happy, & cool. LOL

My parents had just gotten in from out of town & we went to see them. There was this hat sitting on the couch & Zachary wasn't too fond of it, but let me kind of get a picture in before he threw it off. :)

Not much else is going except that Zachary has a little summer version of bronchitis in his lungs, so he's using an inhaler. He went to the doc yesterday and today the wheezing is gone. He has had 3 treatments so far and our doc said that we should see increased improvement within 24-48 hours. This time tomorrow he should be even better!!! Thank you, Lord for healing him & making him feel better.

Happy Memorial Day!!!!

I want to say "thank you" to all the vets who have put their life on the line for my freedom and those who have lost their lives for my freedom. Without you, our country would not be what it is. You're very brave & even though you might not hear it all the time - YOU'RE APPRECIATED!!!!!!!!! Be safe this weekend - enjoy your family & friends!!!!!!!!!!!!

Fun at The Heard!

2010-05-26T22:29:00.001-05:00

You're probably wondering if that is sweat or what?! hahaha Actually, you're probably not!!!!!!!!

Well, this particular day our playgroup was supposed to go to The Heard Museum, but there was also a chance of rain. The percent was low; but the clouds moved in FAST! We had gotten to our trail that we were going to walk; which was over the water. I believe the bridge that you walk on was built by the Boy Scouts. It's a nice hike, but we didn't get to do it that day. We noticed that it was starting to sprinkle, so we continued not really thinking much. Then we stopped to take a few pictures. Right after that, it started to rain MUCH harder. We stayed under the canopy of trees until we were drenched and realized that it was NOT going to get any better. So, we took off running - thankfully April helped me with the big bumps (I had Z in the stroller). He was such a trooper and just "sang" and had fun. We were both drenched, but had a good time and LOTS of laughter!!!

The Heard did give us all vouchers to come back on a dryer day, so hopefully we'll get to go and walk it again soon without the rain, but it did keep us cool from all the running and jogging/walking up a muddy hill....hahaha

Nothing Much Happenin'

2010-05-24T15:10:00.000-05:00

Not much to report the last few days. We're still just trucking along & enjoying life.

I have taken a picture of me & my rifle, but it's still on my camera, so once I get it downloaded; then I will post a picture of it & me together!!!! LOL

Today, I have both of my boys home. Z & I are trucking along like normal, but Les is home sick today. :( He is feeling better, but is sound asleep right now. He didn't sleep well last night and just tossed & turned. I am trying to keep him from dehydrating b/c he's been vomitting - we think food poisoning. Hope he gets better FAST! Love you, Les!!! ;)

My parents are having fun in FL & today they are in Boca Grande; which looks beautiful!!!! They'll be home on Wed, so I'll be glad when they're home. I have been enjoying the quietness & nothing going on though.

Well, I'm going to go for now, but be checking back in the NEAR future for pics. :)

Really?!?!

2010-05-21T15:00:00.000-05:00

This is a gross story about Zachary, so if you have a weak stomach - close now! (you have been full warned!!! hahaha)

Okay, so this morning Zachary & I had a few errands to run. I'm not sure when it happened b/c I didn't see it, but Zachary stepped in dog poo poo. Well, I didn't know it was on his shoe and I saw him grab his feet (like normal) and playing with his feet/shoes. I'm driving along & just look at him on occasion to see what he's up to in the back seat - ESPECIALLY on those quiet drives. haha Well, I look up at my mirror in just the right time to see him put something small (off his shoe) in his mouth. All of a sudden he gets this grossed out look on his face and starts rubbing his tongue and spitting. I'm like," what did you just put in your mouth?!" Well, I reach back and pull of his shoe (it velcros on) and bring it up to the front. I look at it and smell it and YEP folks, it's dog poo poo. He had stuck some in his mouth and quickly realized that it DID NOT taste good. I couldn't help but laugh b/c there's not much else that I could do at the point b/c we're driving along at 60 MPH on 380. I immediately called Les & told him what Zachary had just done and we both laughed. I guess it was only time b/c he has tried dog food, plays in her water bowls, bites the dog and gets hair in his mouth, etc.

Just thought this was definitely a memory that I wouldn't want to forget for A VERY LONG TIME!!!!!!!

News, News, & More News!!! :)

2010-05-18T21:16:00.000-05:00

So many things happening, so little time to blog about them!!!

Let's see, the EXCITING thing for today was that Zachary walked more today than he ever has. This morning he was drinking his juice and he walked right to me while he drank. It was like 6 steps and he didn't even seem to notice what he was doing. Then there was a little more walking throughout the day, but the next steps that he took that were more than 6 was when he went from me to my mom and that was about 8-9 steps. He was so proud of himself and he sat down and clapped - it was really cute!!! :)

Other news, my sister-in-law, Amy, graduated from CCCC this past weekend. That was a very exciting time! What made it even a greater accomplishment for her was when she started she didn't have any kids, but when she graduated, she has 2 yrs old triplets!!!!!!!! Now that's what I call a challenge - Proud of you, Amy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

My parents are leaving to go and visit my Uncle Larry out in Key West for a week. Man, I wish that I was going, but they'll have fun!!!!!

I'm sure that there is more going on, but I am tired and just can't think........LOL Oh, I know, we're beginning to look around at houses. Not too serious yet, but we do plan on moving probably a few years down the road. We plan on adding to the family in the next 6 months and know that we'll need more room eventually. The thought of going to look at houses is so exciting!!!! We do have some pretty strict things that we each would like in our new house, so I'm sure that it'll probably take awhile for us to find a house once we seriously start looking. :)

Those are the big things that are going on..............keep our family in your prayers!

YAY for PICTURES!!!!!!!

2010-05-10T13:04:00.000-05:00

This is random moments from Zachary's 13th month of life - he will be 14 months tomorrow!!!!

ENJOY!!!!!!

Here is wearing some 3D glasses - not sure where those came from or even where they are now! haha

We took Zachary up to the Denison Dam (Eisenhower State Park) to see the bluebonnets. Here is a family shot of the 3 of us. We had a good time that day - we were gone all day and Zachary was pooped out!

Here is Zachary asleep after eating lunch, looking at rifles for mommy, playing in the bluebonnets, and driving around looking at land. NOTE: He is holding onto his toy!

Here is Les & Zachary checking out the cows. Zachary had had a nap, eaten a snack and was ready to have some more adventures. Les jumped at the cows and made them run, but here they are before Les jumped at them. MOOOO

I'm not sure what he's showing me here - can't tell or remember. He is holding his phone though and Les had previously been "talking" on it. Love his smile! :)

Here are some more bluebonnet pictures - here is Zachary moving around through them. He was having a blast!

Here is a shot of daddy and Zachary looking at something.

Here is mommy and Zachary posing for the cameraman (aka: Daddy)

Here he is wearing his Easter Bunny ears one night during supper - not to long after this picture - the ears were gone!!!!!!!

Zachary - WATCH OUT FOR THE TRAIN!! We went with our playgroup to the Frisco Heritage Museum and then ate at Babe's Chicken House (I think that's the name). The food was awesome!

Here is a cute picture of Zachary grinning - can't resist that smile - he melts my heart!

Here we are with Tyler, Whitney, and Hannah playing at the park. We met up with his cousins and took a nice long walk, played, and had a picnic. Good times!

Here is Zachary at the New Mom's Tea playing with Isabella. Her mommy and I used to work together at MMI. :)

Here we are at the Frisco Roughriders game with our ABF. We had a good time!

This is Bella, the cat. He LOVED playing with her! She is declawed and had a blast playing with her. He did accidently step on her tail & boy did she shreik, but she came back for more.....hahaha She's about 13 yrs old and still playful........AMAZING!

Here is Zachary and gramm at Cousin Noel's house. My mom, Zachary and I took a trip to Branson/Springfield to take flowers to the graves where my mom's family are buried. We always try to also see Cousin Noel while we're there. We had a good time!

Here is Zachary at the fish tank at the Bass Pro Shop in Branson Landing. It sits on Lake Taneycomo and we always make a trip there while we're in Branson. :)

HOPE YOU ENJOYED THE PICTURES!!!!!!!!!

Cinco de Mayo

2010-05-09T13:59:00.000-05:00

I'm late in writing this post, but I was out of town on May 5th. Things have changed HUGELY from a year ago today. A year ago today, Zachary had his last transfusion and was getting close to being 2 months old. :) I remember my SIL, Jill telling me that soon it would all be in the past and a distant memory. I remember thinking last year," I am so ready for this all to be a distant memory." The last transfusion that Zachary had was by far the hardest one for me and I cried off and on all day that day because HE cried a lot of the day. I told my mom that day when we were getting to go home after about 8 hrs at Children's that I had just about all that I could handle. I knew that God was there with me, but I was totally worn down and exhausted. A year has passed and Zachary has not had anymore transfusions!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! While my mom were out of town, we celebrated Cinco de Mayo with Zachary. We had dinner at a Mexican Restaurant on Lake Taneycomo in Branson, MO. It was a wonderful day and celebration as I talked about how much has changed in the last year since that last transfusion. Zachary has slowly had more and more time in between his blood checks and right now, he has 6 months off. He goes back for blood work at 18 months, but that is still 4 months away........THAT makes me so happy! Zachary knows what's about to happen since he's had it done so many times and when they start putting the turnicate (sp?) on his arm, he stays as brave as possible and usually doesn't cry till they actually poke him with the needle. I honestly think that he has more blood work than Les & I have combined and he's only 14 months old. He's a brave little guy and we're so proud of him.

So, I am proud to say that 1 FULL year has passed and NO transfusions!!!!! Thank you, Lord - you heard and answered my prayer last year on May 5, 2009.

Help Whip Cancer!

2010-05-08T14:15:00.000-05:00

Contact: Kimberly Cornelius
Independent Consultant
for The Pampered Chef ®
(214) 405-3924
kimberlyskitchen10@gmail.com

CELEBRATE THE WOMEN IN YOUR LIFE THIS MAY TO HELP WHIP CANCER

Join The Pampered Chef® to Raise Funds for the Fight Against Breast Cancer
Lucas, TX May 22, 2010 — With more than 2.5 million breast cancers survivors in the U.S. today, The Pampered Chef, in collaboration with the American Cancer Society®, is honoring women everywhere by raising funds for education and early detection programs through its Help Whip Cancer campaign.
This May, in honor of Mother's Day, The Pampered Chef invites people to celebrate mothers, sisters and friends by hosting a Help Whip Cancer Fundraiser Cooking Show. Guests can taste delicious, affordable recipes and receive valuable cooking tips while raising money for breast cancer awareness and early detection. Up to 25 percent of total Help Whip Cancer Fundraiser Show sales will be contributed to the American Cancer Society to help save lives from breast cancer.

People can also Help Whip Cancer by purchasing pink limited-edition kitchen tools from The Pampered Chef through the month of May. One dollar from every pink item purchased will go to the American Cancer Society. The limited-edition products include: Pink & White Dots Martini Glasses, Pink Color-Coated Tomato Knife, Pink & White Twixit! Clip Combo Pack, Help Whip Cancer Reusable Shopping Bag and Sweet Honey Vanilla Sprinkle, which is a delicious topper on cookies, cupcakes, pancakes and even grilled fruit.
Since Help Whip Cancer began in 2000, The Pampered Chef has raised more than $7.9 million for the American Cancer Society. Last year, the campaign raised more than $875,000 from Help Whip Cancer Fundraiser Shows and special pink-themed product sales.
“Through Pampered Chef Fundraisers and pink product purchases, people can help save lives by raising funds and awareness for breast cancer this May," says Scott Bennett, national vice president of marketing for the American Cancer Society. "With the continued efforts of The Pampered Chef, we are getting closer to a world with less breast cancer and more birthdays.”
The Pampered Chef is the premier direct seller of kitchen tools. Its independent consultants provide recipes, tools and tips for quick and simple food preparation. To support breast cancer awareness this May, try this new pink dessert that is sure to get everyone asking for seconds.

Heavenly Lemon Angel Cake

5 drops red food coloring

1 pkg (16 oz or 430 g) angel food cake mix

3 lemons

2 cups (500 mL) powdered sugar

2 cups (500 mL) thawed frozen fat-free whipped topping

1 pkg (10 oz) frozen raspberries in syrup, thawed

1 Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). For cake, add food coloring to amount of water specified on package. Prepare cake according to package directions. Pour batter into Rectangular Baker. Bake on center rack 35-40 minutes or until top is golden brown, cracked and center is slightly sunken. (Do not under bake.) Remove baker from oven; invert onto Stackable Cooling Rack. Without removing baker, let stand until completely cool (about 1 1/2 hours).

2 Poke holes in cake about 1½ in. (4 cm) deep and ½ in. (1 cm) apart with large fork. Zest lemons using Zester/Scorer to measure 1 tbsp (15 mL) zest. Juice lemons using Juicer to measure 1/3 cup (75 mL) juice. In Small Batter Bowl, combine sugar, juice and zest; whisk until smooth. Pour glaze over cake, spreading evenly. Let stand 30 minutes or until glaze is set.

3 Attach open star tip to Easy Accent® Decorator; fill with whipped topping. Garnish each serving with whipped topping; top with raspberries.

Yield: 15 servings
U.S. Nutrients per serving: Calories 220, Total Fat 0 g, Saturated Fat 0 g, Cholesterol 0 mg, Carbohydrate 52 g, Protein 3 g, Sodium 300 mg, Fiber 1 g U.S. Diabetic exchanges per serving: 2 1/2 fruit, 1 starch (3 1/2 carb)

For More Information

For more information about Help Whip Cancer, hosting a Fundraiser Cooking Show or purchasing Help Whip Cancer products please call Kimberly Cornelius, Independent Consultant for The Pampered Chef, at (214) 405-3924.
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About The Pampered Chef

The Pampered Chef is the premier direct seller of high quality kitchen tools and part of Berkshire Hathaway. At in-home Cooking Shows, guests see and try products, prepare and sample recipes, and learn quick and easy food preparation techniques and tips on how to entertain with style and ease — transforming the simple to the spectacular. For more information call 1-800-266-5562 or visit www.pamperedchef.com.
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Walking.....

2010-04-30T13:40:00.000-05:00

................SORT OF!!!

Zachary took his 1st 3 steps all by himself on Tues morning!!! Les and I just stood there shocked and excited. Les was holding him and I called Zachary to me. I went to reach my hand out and before I got his hand - he walked to me. It was so exciting and I was like," did you see that?!?!" He wouldn't do it again, but later that day he took 2 more steps. He didn't walk any on Wed., but then yesterday, he walked to my mom and walked to me this morning when him and I were playing.

He walks constantly while holding my hand, but now with letting go and walking - we're in for some fun and busy times VERY soon! :)

YAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

We love you, Z!!!!

My 1st Rifle

2010-04-29T22:16:00.000-05:00

Les and I went and looked at several rifles yesterday and decided on one that he had been looking at. He had been doing research on rifles that "south paws" can use.......well, that is fun! The options are down b/c there just isn't much of a demand for those rifles. We found a 7mm-08 rifle. It's a break action and single shot. I was super excited - I promise to post a picture of me with it VERY soon!! It is registered under me, so that was cool!

Tonight we left Z with my parents and we went with some friends and shot guns. I was about 75 yards away and shot the target everytime - was I perfect, NO WAY!!! hahaha I am proud to at least hit the target somewhere on it. :) We had a good time! The rifle doesn't have a big kick, so I'm not sore in the shoulder. It is really loud and we all agreed on that.

I promise to put a picture soon - so check back ASAP!!! ;)

2010-04-23T15:07:00.000-05:00

Well, well, well............1 whole week has passed and I haven't blogged yet! :)

Not much is really going on right now. We've been playing a lot, going to the park, taking walks, cutting in several teeth and a few of them are molars (OUCH!), etc.

He's been having the time of his life and we've just been enjoying him.

I have started selling Pampered Chef - if you book a party before May 26th; then you'll receive a gift from Pampered Chef for helping me to get started! I love free stuff, so that totally would catch my eye! ha!

Zachary and Kodi are both 13 months old and have been for several weeks. They play so well together and it's HILARIOUS to watch them play. Zachary LOVES taking her toys, bones, etc and playing with them too! He "teethes" on her too and she just takes it..........YAY! She's a great dog (most of the time) and has been doing much better. She is now sleeping outside of her crate at night now and she is definitely LOVING that!

Zachary and I will be traveling with my mom up to Branson/Springfield the first week of May. I'm looking forward to that. My mom's family is all buried up there, so we're taking flowers up there and just having some "gal" time. :)

I passed my hunter's education course and Les was very proud of me! I earned a 100 on my test - can't beat that! and NO, we did not have an open book test......LOL The instructor was great and definitely made the class interesting. Now as far as the 70's videos - that gave us something to laugh at! ha!

All in all, we're all doing really well and just getting ready for summer to hit full swing. We're looking forward to many more boating days, fishing days, picnics and time together!

Hope everyone's doing well - till the next post.....signing off.

A few pics from the CO Trip!!!!!

2010-04-14T14:27:00.000-05:00

These first 3 pictures are from the Durango train ride that we went on - we had a lot of fun. Les was fighting a cold and didn't go outside while the train was in motion, but I did and got some shots. I have a lot of pics from this ride, but didn't want to post all of them! hahaha

This is a frozen lake - part of it has already started to unthaw.

Here is Les and I while on the train!

Here is a really sharp turn that we made - you can see the front of the train coming around and getting ready to go around another sharp turn. We went through these curves VERY slowly b/c it's a tight squeeze. You can see the Animas River below us. We followed the River the whole way up - it was beautiful!

Here are pictures from our drive to Colorado Springs f/ Durango

Here is a mountain range that we went through - it was one of the prettiest drives that I have ever been on. We did hit a patch of ice, but I saw it coming and had slowed down before we got to it and we basically coasted over it - I could feel the car slide some.

Here is a tunnel that we went through - Les took this picture - pretty cool!

Here is another shot of the mountains that we went through. It was like a 5 -6 hour trip.

We stopped at a spot by the River where guys were fishing for trout. We stopped to use the bathroom and stretch our legs. Here is me!

Les had wandered off and I had climbed down to the river to enjoy the sounds and have a snack. I was walking back up and saw these deer getting water. There were 8 of them. I just watched them and then Les started heading back to me and he got some pictures of them. They weren't scared of us and just stood there. It was pretty cool!

Royal Gorge

I got scared when we went to get on this little train. You rode in these cages down a really steep hill and I didn't like the "cage". I stayed at the top and this is Les taking a picture up from the bottom.

This is the Royal Gorge bridge. We had just ridden the sky tram across the sides. That was a little scary b/c your crammed in this tram and then suspended over 1000 ft above the water. It was fun once we took off and were going. It was a very smooth ride and we got to see some beautiful scenery. :)

Pike's Peak Cog Railway

This was looking up from 12,000 ft. We couldn't go any further b/c of the snow covering the tracks. They literally blow up the snow in the mornings to hopefully get as far as they can. We got up up the furthest they had been in 2 months; which was a little over 12,000 ft. Breathtaking views!!!!!!

We loved how blue the sky was - so dark and clear! You couldn't look out the window without sunglasses on - it was just too bright.

This is where we stopped; which was in 10 ft of snow. I opened our window and put my initials in the snow! hahahaha :)

This is looking out across from Pike's Peak - just gorgeous. There is a glare b/c those people didn't have their window down. :(

Garden of the Gods

Les and I hiked and road horses through the Garden of the Gods. It was beautiful in here, but I LOVED the horses the best. :) Here is a picture of me posing for Les. haha

Here is Les posing for me!

I believe that this might have been taking while I was on the horse.

This is the "kissing camels"

Hope you enjoyed our trip to CO pictures. We have a ton more, but I can't post everything, so I hope that you enjoyed what I did pick out!!!

So excited!!!!

2010-04-04T21:12:00.000-05:00

Our vacation is about to start and we're getting super excited! For the most part, we're all packed and ready to go. Our little man is going to be staying with his grammy and poppy for the week. I know that he's going to have a blast!!! We've been away from him before, so this won't be the first time. The first time that we left him was 5 days. He cried when I picked him up and of course, I cried too........LOL When Les got home the next day, Zachary teared up and I cried b/c of how he missed Les too. :) Some people may not know, but my whole life, I have been a very easy crier. I try my best to hide that b/c I feel that it makes me look weak, but sometimes, I just have to cry. Not sure how I got into that discussion, oh well.....hahahaha

I hope that you have a great week and I'm going to try to blog some while we're gone, but not sure how much internet we'll have the whole time. We're planning on packing our days full of stuff, trying out new "hole in the wall" restaurants (I'm totally excited about this!), etc.

So, have a great week!!!!!!!!! :)