Jolly Ol' St. Nick

Today was the big day! Caleb met Santa for the first time.

I was so looking forward to this.

Growing up, this was always a big deal in our house. Mom always put out all of the Santa pictures from the preceding years and would always drag me to get a new one that year. No, seriously, I was the 15-year-old awkwardly sitting on Santa's lap getting my picture taken while three and four-year-olds pitched fits in the line as they waited for me to "tell Santa what I wanted."

Anyway, we just headed out to our mall, or what they call a mall, this morning and waited in line. Due to technical difficulties we had a rather long wait and we weren't the first in line as it was, so I started telling Caleb about Santa. When I told him that he too would be getting his picture as long as he lived under my roof the mom in front of me rolled her eyes. OK, so maybe it's not as acceptable for boys to get their pictures with Santa once they are in their teens, but my daughters will undoubtedly be subjected to the same Yuletide torture that I was.

As for how Caleb took to Santa, he loved him. He was so enamored. He just smiled, talked and looked at Santa and was very dismayed when we were trying to get his picture. So although  he may be looking at the camera in this picture, he would have much rather be talking to his new pal in red and as soon as the picture was taken he resumed his obviously important conversation with Santa. Santa loved it and asked me if he always was this happy. Why, yes he is, Santa. But why are you asking me, don't you see him when he's sleeping, know when he's awake? Don't you know if he's been naughty or nice? Shouldn't you know this? Tsk, tsk, Santa, I'll expect better next year.

Hope you all get to make happy holiday memories of your own this year as well. We are looking forward to a month full of them!

Memories

It's the last day of November, and while I'll continue to be thankful for so much in my daily life I will not be blogging about it as much because quite frankly my sweet readers are probably sick to death of my raving.

Many moons ago at a petting zoo

My first haircut

  

 Anyway, today's post has a little extra incentive for you. But before we get there, let's consider the topic -- memories.

Way back when!

 
      To me there are few things as sweet and treasured as my memories. Memories keep alive the past and help us to remember the fondest of times with friends and loved ones. Oftentimes we are forced to say goodbye to people before we're ready. Sometimes it's because of a move, other times someone passes on and so on. But when we hold on to our memories it seems as though


     My favorite way to keep memories alive is through pictures and videos. I am constantly playing paparazzi and since becoming a mom it has only increased 10 fold. The problem, however, is that now in this digital age photos often just sit on our camera because we never seem to have the time to go to the store and wait for all of our photos to upload and then select and edit all of the ones we want. these people and moments are as close as can be.

Junior Prom

8th grade dance

 Well, thank goodness for Shutterfly! Shutterfly has so many great services that make keeping your memories alive so much more convenient. You can order pictures off of Shutterfly and two of the great things about this are-- 1) you upload from home and can do it at your own pace so you don't have to wait in the store  2) the pictures are delivered right to your house and you never have to bother with remembering to pick them up (let's be honest, things like this always slip our minds, especially at holiday time!)

The day we showed up dressed alike.

Not only does Shuttefly have photo developing services, but you can capture your memories in many different ways. They make photo books, calendars, home décor, gifts and more all from your favorite pictures. I have also ordered everything from Caleb's birth announcements and christening invitations to Christmas cards and stationery from them. This Christmas you can check out their blog for details about earning 50 of their beautiful cards for free! Seriously, can we say Merry Christmas to us!

Friends

Sorry about the delay in posts, I was home in Memphis with Daniel and Caleb visiting my family. It was a great time and I am so thankful for that. I just never found the time to sit down and blog and even feel that the brief post I gave my sweet baby boy ripped him off of the credit he is due, as I am truly thankful for him each and every minute of the day.   

Anyway, it's time to get back to the thankful posts and it is without a doubt that I have to dedicate a thankful blog to my friends. I, like everyone else, tend to believe that I have the best friends in the world. My friends are both relatives and non relatives, male and female, old and young, lifelong friends and new friends, and each and every one of them brings something to my life that I am thankful for.

These are in no particular order- just the way the pics uploaded:)

 Island Friends
 These are the friends that bring fun and randomness to your life each and every time you are with them. They are a crazy group, but I love and miss them all. This is obviously one of those random times we just broke out in the macarena.

 

Old Friends

Katie is among one of my oldest friends. She and I met in preschool and have remained the closest of friends since. From girl scouts and elementary school to freshman roommates and more we will always be the best of friends. I have a few other who have been there for a lifetime of memories as well, like the Nicholson girls and Jess and I love them all equally and know that my life would be missing much joy and worth without them.

College Friends
This picture is a bit dark, but these are some of the girls that made my first stint at Auburn fun and worthwhile. We may not all live close anymore, but we will always remain friends and cherish our memories.

 

Sideways Friends

Just kidding, but for some reason this did upload this way. This is my roommate friend. So what if he's my husband, he's also my roommate and I couldn't ask for a better one :)

Family Friends
Mom, Dad, brother, sister-in-law, Aunts, Uncles and cousins. I am thankful for all of my family and that not only are we related but we are friends. Thanks for choosing to love me and be my friend not just because you have to since I'm related.



There are so many other friends I am thankful for. This blog doesn't even break the tip of the iceberg, but I just want you all to know that you truly are appreciated. Thanks for always being there and accepting me for me.


And just for a little something extra (friends theme song). Enjoy. If you're like me though it 's going to make you want to go Netflix some seasons!

4 Months of Joy

Today's topic is a no brainer. Hands down this blog was easy as pie to choose. Today is Mr. Caleb's 4 month birthday and there is no doubt that I am incredibly thankful for him.

In these 4 extremely quick months he has brought more joy to my life than I could ever imagine and has taught me so much. To think that a little bitty guy like he is could teach me more about life and myself than I have learned throughout college is a crazy, but true, thought.

A girl couldn't ask for a better family.

I don't need to bore you all with how I could watch him for hours as he discovers more and more every day. If I could I would rock him to sleep every night and always read bedtime stories to him. Unfortunately, I know the day will come when I am not cool and he will be a "big boy" and he will no longer "need" his momma. So, until that dreaded day comes I am enjoying every moment, even if it includes the occasional 4:30 wake up call, I am soaking it all up and am thankful for absolutely every moment with my little boo boo.

Thanks for everything little guy, you will never know how much I love you and how grateful and blessed I am to have you in my life.

Domo Arigato Mr. Daddio

I know, I know, it's pretty cliche to write a blog about my mom and then about my dad, but it's true I am thankful for them both so very much and honestly could not have asked for a better set of parents (another cliche I know, but would I lie to you? I think not).

Hugging Dad before leaving our reception

 While Mom has always been my best friend, I am also very much a Daddy's girl. Dad has always been very busy with work but  never once that I can remember did he miss out on important things in his children's lives.

He was my date to the daddy/daughter square dance with Girl Scouts all those years ago, my number one fan at my boring swim meets and always my coach in softball. I would say for a CFO who works harder than anyone I know he deserves extra points for putting in all of this time that most dads miss out on.

Fighting back the tears as he walks me down the aisle

Sure there have been times I haven't always seen eye to eye with my dad (some of these times were even brought on by his involvement with my extracurricular- cough, cough- softball- cough, cough) but we always seem to get past our differences.

Now watching him as a "Papa J" is even cooler. He can't wait to teach Caleb how to fish (NEWSFLASH Dad, you may want to learn how to fish first :) ) and I know he will wear out all of the same jokes that my Grandpa Ehrhart told me, and I can't wait. I know he will be just as great of a Papa as he is my Daddy, and even though I'm a mom now, it's always comforting to know I'll always be his brown eyed girl.

And the thanks continue

So, since I am a mom, I am obviously lame, right? At least that's what the kid in the car commercials has me believing. So to go along with my lameness I am now a lame tv show watcher, and on the top of my lame mom tv show list that I watch is Dr. Phil.

Yesterday's topic was "Mommy  Confessions" and it reminded me of something I was already thankful of, but it just showed me how thankful I truly should be for this special person- my mom.

Mom & me at the Paula Deen event a couple

 

of years ago

Mom has always been my best friend, so this should really come as no surprise as anyone who knows me that I am dedicating one of my thankful posts to her.

Yesterday's Dr. Phil was just an eye opener though. He had some horrendous mothers on the show and there seemed to be a common theme among them- they each had horrible mothers as well.

So, not only am I grateful for the wonderful mother I have, but as a mother now myself I am even more grateful because I hope that I can use her as a role model and be just as wonderful of a mother to Caleb and any future little ones.

But, why, you may ask, is my momma so wonderful? I couldn't ever express is words all of the great qualities of Mom, but I can tell you that she listens to everything, no matter the time, no matter the topic and no matter what she is doing. She is always there for you, even if you are on a far away island and it's the wee hours of the morning for her, she is going to listen and do her best to help whatever the situation.

She is a great role model as far as a faithful and loving wife goes as well. She is also one of the strongest Christian women I know and always seems to be serving someone is some manner- even if it's just keeping sweet little Annabelle. Hey, no one said that grandparents are required to give up their lives and watch the grandkids. Sure they may enjoy being with the little ones, but trust me it's a big sacrifice.

She's a whole lot more, but basically she's my mom and I am so thankful for that!

Helpful Husband

Daniel and his mini me. Love these boys!

Today, I am going to get a little sappy on you.

Today's topic I am thankful for is my husband.
Seriously, I know that Daniel and I have been together for nearly 9 years, but I have never loved him as much as I have these past 4 months since Caleb was born, and I thought I loved him all that I could love anyone before the little dude was born.
Daniel is a wonderful father, husband and friend and all of this was so clearly shown last week when I was sick.

I don't know if most of you know this or not, but mommas don't get sick days. We don't get a break-- it doesn't matter how sick we are.

Well, last week I was the sickest I have been, other than the Swine Flu, in years, and this even rivaled the Swine Flu. Monday night it hit and my temperature skyrocketed to 102. I was getting violently ill and could barely hold myself up to walk.

My sweet husband stepped in and took charge. He rushed me to the doctor, got me checked out and sent home. Then he went to Walgreens (all the while he had called in help for the baby so I was baby free) and got my medicine and a Sprite that I had requested. He then proceeded to stay home from work the next day and a half all to dote on me. He even came in and checked on me while I was sleeping because I was so dead to the world. I did not even know this until he made a comment about it in passing and I thought, that is the sweetest thing ever.

None of this may sound big to you, but ask your moms if you dads ever stayed home from work to take care of her and the kids. I am doubting that answer is no. Most dads don't have the time or think that moms are superheroes and can always handle it all.

Well, I definitely couldn't have handled a 3 month old for those 3 days and I am so grateful to have had my sweet husband there for the rescue.

This is just one of the many things, but to me this just exemplified his loving spirit the best.

So, thanks hubby, today and everyday I am going to celebrate being thankful for you in my life.

Thankful to be

No, seriously, after the week we've had I am just thankful to be. Plain and simple. That's all-- thankful to be.

Had the flu last week. Check. Terrible car accident over the weekend. Check check. Child fell from his swing and landed on the hardwood floor. Check, check, check.

Then, today when I was silly enough to think everything was going to be turned around for the better because my in-laws were letting us borrow a car while Mrs. Dreher was out of town, that car breaks down and we have to have it towed to the same car lot my car is sitting at currently. Which, may I add, is probably smelly as all get out by now because it has been raining since Sunday night and since my car doors don't close now my car is drenched and dude's insurance WILL NOT CALL US BACK!

OK, I need to take a second and "Woosa" as they say in "Bad Boys II" because this is a thankful post and I am getting a bit frustrated. Anyway, throughout all of this mess I am still trying to be thankful and know that God blesses though all.

I am thankful that I was able to go to the doctor last week to get some medicine to help alleviate some of the nausea. Thankful that we are all OK after the car accident, and that, fingers crossed, the dude's insurance is going to pay for my car to get fixed. Thankful that Caleb was OK after his fall and that I am able to be home with him, because gracious me, we all know I'd be a mess  a bigger mess if these things happened while I wasn't here. And finally I am thankful that I have a blog to vent about everything on and maybe, just maybe, the occasional reader to read and enjoy my venting.

Thankful for Toyota

Sounds like a strange thanks, right? This is the company that has been under scrutiny for botched brakes and everything else under the sun, but for me, right now, they are the tops in my book.

Saturday, while driving home from the game, we were hit by a pickup truck. The driver was turning left and we were going straight. He failed to yield the right of way and said he didn't see us and knocked us clear into tomorrow.

Despite the big blow and the obvious damage, we all walked away OK (Daniel and I were with my friend Katie and her sister Meagan). Other than a few bruises and some stiffness and soreness the next day, it seems we are all OK.

I accredit this OK-ness first and foremost to God, and secondly to Toyota. Thus, I am thankful for Toyota. My brakes work fine and obviously I give them a 5 star crash test rating. 

It's November folks

It's November, a month that traditionally has us all remembering what we're thankful for. I love this month, it is the month when the leaves start to change, you can smell wood burning fires in the air (LOVE that smell- judge me, go ahead, I don't care) and it's just an all around feel good month in my book. But like I first mentioned it's a month that we often find ourselves giving thanks.

As for me I love giving thanks. I guess it was because it was instilled in me when I was younger how you don't take anything for granted and you should always say thanks. I even remember Mom once telling me how much God likes to be thanked.... and til this day I always try to start off my prayers with a long, heartfelt lists of all the thanks in my life... a.k.a. all the blessings that I have because of Him.

 Well, anyway, seeing as I have not been that faithful of a blogger as of late, I am going to try and give you something every day or every other day (cut me some slack-- 3 month old baby and husband... remember?!?) that I am thankful for in my life. I should do this more often and shouldn't wait for lonely old month 11 to roll around for me to start giving thanks, but, nonetheless, I will do my best to give my thanks every day or so on here.

So, day 1, what am I thankful for??? Well, there is a menagerie of things that I could write about first, but today is Veteran's Day and I find it only suitable to be thankful for our men and women in the armed services, and thankful to be an American in general.

One of the most understated lines is in Toby Keith's song "American Solider". It says, "freedom [don't] come free."

Amen. I couldn't have said it better. And the sad truth is, the large majority of us will never understand what it does truly cost because we will never see the things that these brave men and women see and have seen. The sights they have witnessed, the sounds they have heard and the heartbreak they have suffered losing their comrades on the battlefield all unfathomable to us, yet so real for them.

To this I tip my hat (well if I had one, I'd be tipping it) and truly give you a thanks that I know will never speak the volumes that it means.

Because of you I was able to grow up Christian and love and serve the God I chose. Because of you I was able to get the education that I wanted and am still able to be furthering that education. Because of you I was able to birth the most precious baby boy on July 20, in a clean, well-staffed hospital where I didn't ever have to worry about the government or anyone else coming in and taking him from me, and, more importantly, I was able to look at him and know what a bright future he had because he was blessed to be born in the United States of America.

So, thank you men and women of the United States Armed Forces.

While many of us spend hours with our noses in books or eyes glued to the television delving into the world of imaginary heroes, you are the true heroes-- the ones who really make this world a better place.

Happy Veteran's Day and thank you.

Lovely Little Laugh

Caleb has been smiling  in happiness, not just random gas smiles or baby smiles, but full fledged I like you, or this makes me happy smiles since he was about 4 weeks old. For the past month or so since he has started getting really vocal he has also laughed. When he has laughed it has just been a little laugh and a big ol' smile until today.

Today we were sitting in the nursery after some tummy and back time working on our rolling over... he's got tummy to back down  like a pro and is almost just as good at back to bell but not quite yet-- I am so proud of my chunky 3 month old (14 lbs 12 oz as of yesterday). Anyway, when we got done with our "workout" the little guy was tired, so I took him in the nursery and was rocking him and reading some books.

I thought for sure he was going to fall asleep but he didn't so I propped him up on my legs facing me and just started talking to him. One thing led to another, and I found myself making up songs and being weird (I know shocker, right?). Well, as I was singing and taking my hands and tapping Caleb's sweet cheeks, he just let out the heartiest laugh. I teared up (I am telling you, motherhood has made me lamer than lame). I just kept doing this silly song and tapping his cheeks and my little buddy just kept laughing. It was such a sweet, sweet sound.

These are just some pictures from today. I know on the third you can see dog hair, normally I would be too embarrassed to share this, but I sweep and swiffer daily and brush the dog and nothing seems to keep the hair at bay... any suggestions?

Oh well, I guess there are worse things.

Well, it is crazy to think how much he has already changed in 14 quick weeks. God is such a masterful creator. I thank Him daily for this little guy and everyone else in my life, and now I'll be thanking Him for that sweet laugh too. Hope you guys all get a good laugh today!

Pumpkin Patch-ery

Yeah, I just made up a word, so deal with it.

Anyway, yesterday Daniel and I took Caleb to the Farmer in the Dell Pumpkin Patch in Loachapoka. We were fortunate to have his parents there too so that we had someone to help us take pictures.

Here are a few. We thought we waited until late enough so that the sun wouldn't be so bright, but it was still very bright and caused a lot of shadows, so we may just have to go back this weekend.

It was a neat experience, but I am already looking forward to next year when Caleb can walk around and explore on his own.

OK, God, I hear you

Ever feel like God is trying to send you not so subtle messages? Well, this week has definitely been one of those and I feel like it has been a good week for self-reflection.

It all started Sunday after a dinner with the in-laws. I was aggravated with certain things and just needed some girlfriend time. Well, I was texting with one of my best girlfriends and we were joking back and forth about some things to kind of get my mind off things when I had a typical Katie scatter-brained moment.

Sometimes when I am doing one thing but thinking of another I combine the two and end up botching the whole thing. Well this time I was thinking of a particular person because of what my girl friend and I were talking about and thinking about how I needed to thank my in-laws for taking us to dinner and to make a long confusing story short, I sent what my friend and I had been joking about to my mother-in-law whom I meant to send the thank you text to. I hope you're following all this.

Anyway, it was just a big mess. Daniel of course feels I freaked out more than I needed to and just needed to talk to his mom, but if you know me you know I hate ever offending anyone or feeling like I let them down so I couldn't call because I was a sobbing mess.

Well, while it wasn't a gossipy text and it was just what my girlfriend and I had been talking about I soon saw God's message-- I need to learn to confront my problems.

I am notorious for just smiling and nodding and letting people walk all over me because I hate confrontation. Well, I guess God was telling me it's time to put on the proverbial big girl panties and start facing my problems head on. Daniel and I never have any arguments except over this point of contention and the fact that I had yet to speak up for myself to fix, so I think He was also trying to show me you need to get over your insecurities and do it not only for your own sanity but for a better household for all.

So, tomorrow I am going to try and talk to this person and let them know how I feel about the way they treat me and act toward my family, and I know that God will be there to give me strength and also the means of going about it so as to speak in a manner that will not shame Him, instead show His love and forgiveness for all. I know that sounds nuts to talk about when you are going to confront someone, but I know it can be done and I can approach it in a way that will make God shine through me to someone who I do not think is a believer.

I got another tap on the shoulder from God a few days after that when I couldn't find my right hand ring. Daniel and I literally tore our house apart before finally finding it. I had been shooting arrow prayers all day that God just let me find it. It wasn't the money that was fretting me (although that will definitely get you thinking did I really just lose ___ dollars through my carelessness) but it was what the ring stood for. It was my 1 year anniversary gift and Daniel and I really struggled through our first year of marriage and this ring was almost like a new promise ring that we were turning things around, refocusing on God and family and moving forward.

Well, after I found it the hidden message was clear. Get organized Katie. I don't think it was necessarily just my house He was talking about, but maybe life in general. There are a lot of things in my life that are unnecessary clutter-- from junk food to negative/gossipy people to my tendency to put things off. I think this was just His way of showing me I need to clean my act up and focus on what's really important.

I hear ya God, loud and clear. Thanks for the wake-up calls. Here's hoping that next time you don't have to speak so loud, because I promise I think I was borderline breakdown each of those times.

Isn't it funny how if we aren't listening for His quiet voice, sometimes we can get lost in all life's noise?

By the way the random picture was just for graphic appeal.... no real rhyme or reason... but check it out, it was the little guy's first day wearing shoes. :)

10 for 10

So our little newborn, is a newborn no more. Tomorrow he will be ten weeks old. I thought it would take so long to get here, but here it is and it came fast. I think that time has actually flown by even fast since school started 6 weeks ago, so I'm really looking forward to fall and winter break, hoping it'll slow down again and help me enjoy him all day every day.
Anyway, as we get ready to enjoy this 10 week milestone I thought maybe I should look back on my 10 favorite things about motherhood so far. Notice that these are my favorite things, that's because there are far more than 10 things I love about this new stage in life and this precious baby.
1. His smile. I am not just saying this because I am his mom, because others have said it, too, many times, but this is the happiest baby I have ever been around. And with my nannnying and babysitting throughout the years I have been around a lot of babies.

God has definitely blessed us with one goodnatured little tyke.

2. The feedings- I know, most moms would say, "What? The feedings? Are you nuts?" Well, maybe I am nuts but I do love them. It is such a sweet time. It is just us and I sing to him or read to him and while this is probably just my subconscious wishing, I like to think he is getting something out of it and enjoying it as much as I do. I really love the book "Guess How Much I Love You". It reminds me of my mom and me when I was little. I used to always tell her I loved her more and she would tell me she loved me most. It was an unending cycle. I never understood that she really could love me more than I was expressing, but now that I have a child of my own I see how endless this love is.... which brings me to my third fave thing

This is in our little reading corner in his nursery. Duke often joins as you can see

3. The love- It is so cliche because everyone always says you never know how much you can love until you have a child, but it is so true. The love I have for this little guy is so much more than I ever thought possible. It is not only amazing to see how much I love him, but how much my love for Daniel has grown too (which I didn't necessarily think was possible either, but it's like that country song, "I've said that before")

Our little family. So full of love.

4. The love I see that Daniel has for Caleb- Watching these two is such a blessing. Daniel always said he would be a wonderful Dad not because he knows what to do but because he knows what not to do thanks to his own experience with his father. But bad role model or not, this guy has the dad thing down perfectly. Caleb adores his daddy and the feeling is mutual. So Daniel if you're reading this it's not because you know what not to do, because you also know what to do and you do it perfectly!

Such a special bond these two already have.

5. Watching Caleb learn- Of course I am a mom so I think my child is advanced (haha), but in reality to think of all that he has accomplished in 10 short weeks is amazing. My favorite thing as of late is the cooing. I guess he really started letting us here him "talk" a couple of weeks ago and it is the sweetest thing ever. Daniel and I crack up and find ourselves mocking him often, which he enjoys and then continues to carry on the conversation in his own little way. But as I was writing this (literally) he rolled over for the first time. What a little stud!

Tummy time holds all kinds of learning experiences for Caleb.

6. The Duke/Caleb factor- Everyone warned me that my relationship with Duke would not be the same after the baby arrived. I don't necesarily think this is true. I may not have the same amount of time that I did before for Duke, but he still is my shadow and still loves me and the feeling is mutual. However, what I did not expect was for Duke to take to Caleb so easily and naturally. It has been said more than once that if Duke had opposable thumbs we could leave him in charge of Caleb. You have no idea. Duke checks on Caleb at every little sound he makes, and even if Caleb isn't making any noise Duke feels it is his job to check on his "little brother" every now and then. When we moved Caleb from the bassinet in our room to his crib in his room, you would have thought Duke had just lost his life long best friend. He didn't understand why Caleb wasn't in the bassinet and he was torn between sleeping in the nursery or in our room, so he did what was most logical and moved back and forth between rooms for the first few nights until he was assured Caleb would be OK in there by himself.

Seriously he could babysit, I don't think you understand.

7. Bringing me closer to God- Anyone who could ever doubt that there is a god, is not only ignorant, but has clearly never loved a child. Any and everything Caleb does is such a miracle to me. He is a miracle and everything about him is so miraculous that I find myself constantly thanking God for sweet Caleb and asking God to make me a better Christian for Caleb's sake and to bring me closer to Him so that Caleb may grown to love the Lord and be a God serving man.

Our fam after church.. this was about the only picture I could think of to symbolize this :)

8. Learning the small things don't matter- Those of you who know me, know I am a worrier and an anxious mess. Well, meet the new Katie because something about this little guy has brought the greatest calm to me and I rarely find myself stressed about much. I think it is because of Caleb and having to put less important things on the wayside that I have learned this. After a while of not having the perfect house or always having my hair done every day I saw that these things didn't matter and life was still going on fine. These are just a couple of the examples of the big picture, but I do see now that sometimes you just have to forget about things and know that they will get done later.

Horrid hair, clothes that are spit up on, lack of make-up. Who cares when you have such a cute little man!

9. Watching him grow- While I have already had my moments where all I want is for time to slow down so he stops growing, it is so amazing to see how he changes. I can't wait to watch him grow over the years and become the wonderful man I know he will be.

From his first minutes...

to today!

10. Caleb- This is kind of a given, but everything about the little guy is so wonderful to me that there isn't a thing I don't love about him. From his smile to his sweet cry, to the way he nuzzles when he is on your chest but his still thinking he is a big boy and trying to hold his own bottle before dropping it a few seconds later, there isn't a thing about this child that I don't absolutely adore. He has changed my life so much in 10 short weeks. Everyone always says parenthood is a sacrifice, and maybe in someways it is, but there isn't a thing I have sacrificed that I miss and regret having to give up. I can't wait to see what else the future with my little boo boo holds.

Sweet newborn Caleb. He sure has changed a lot since this picture, but I love it so. Thanks for everything sweet boy. Your momma and daddy love you oodles and oodles.

What's all the fuss about?

So I was looking at another mom's blog this morning and her daughter turns 2 today (as far off as that used to seem, as fast as these past 8 weeks have flown by I know it will be here before I know it). Anyway, she had posted about the big day and linked back to past blogs she had written about her little girl. I became inspired. I know I have fallen off the blog band wagon as of late, but I am going to try and be better. With a baby, school and 2 jobs, you have to cut me some slack.
Anyway, if I am going to keep everything for Caleb, I guess the first place to start is the labor and delivery story.
So, let's turn the clock back 1,382 hours and 11 minutes. Yes, that is precisely how long it has been since little coccolo entered the world. And yes, I also realize I am a nerd for calculating that.
Anyway, getting to 12:53 a.m. on July 20, was not the quickest of journeys, however, I wouldn't say it was near as bad as all of the labor horror stories you hear.
I checked into the hospital about a quarter til 7 on Monday morning to be induced. I was induced around 9 and had my water broken around 12 because not much progress was being made. At this point Dr. Alverson told me when I thought I was getting close to any kind of pain to let the nurse know so I could get my epidural ordered because it would take an hour. Well, I thought he was exaggerating just so I wouldn't get to the point of needing it and expect it to be simultaneous that I received the drug.
Well, dude wasn't lying. I think I decided about an hour after I had my water broken that it was time. It took another hour and a half for the anesthesiologist to get up to my room. I probably shot daggers at him when he walked in the room, but in the end the guy was there to give me the goods so I just leaned forward and let him do his magic. Except that wasn't even that easy. Earlier in the morning I had agreed to let a student nurse shadow my nurse. I thought, well no big deal they'll learn and just be monitoring my stats and what not. Nope, wrong. They were there for everything including when the epidural was administered. So as the doctor is inserting the catheter in my back he is explaining step by step what he is doing and all of the possibilities of things going wrong and leaving me paralyzed. Uhm, hello?!?! Who wants to hear this when they have been in labor for 6 hours and are in enough pain without the agony of considering being a paralyzed mother... not this chick that's for sure.
So anyway, after Dr. Dundee (his accent was just like Crocodile Dundee, so at least that added a little entertainment to the talk of a catheter entering my back {note the little}) was finished with his work I was feeling pretty good. It is absolutely absurd how you truly do lose complete control of your lower body. My legs felt about 1,000 lbs each and there was not a thing I could do to will my body to even give me a slight bit of control over them.
Fast forward about another 3 hours and you can cue the nausea. It was awful I was physically sick for the rest of labor until 12:53 a.m. No joke, I was still getting sick as I was pushing. Ok, sorry that is as graphic as I'll get.
Anyway, labor was pretty easy if you ask me. I napped a lot of the day. I watched tv, movies and the Cardinals game. The funny thing is that the Cardinals were losing and the labor was progressing very slowly and Dad and I joked that Caleb was just waiting until the Cardinals started winning to make his appearance, and sure enough as they took the lead my labor started progressing much fast. The Cardinals ended up winning and a few hours after that I was holding my sweet baby for the first time after only an hour of pushing. God is good! Birth has to be the most miraculous event ever. It was crazy when I was holding him and admiring how perfectly he was made the next day to think that just hours before he had been inside of me for 40+ weeks. Anyone who can say humans evolve and that God doesn't exist is just plain stupid. Witness the miracle of birth and surely you will change your mind.
Well this was long enough, but Caleb, one day when you are older I can look at this and remind you that it took nearly 17 hours to get you into this world and out of me, and if that day you are not listening, I'll also remind you that within 17 secs I can take you out. JK Caleb Lawrence, that is just such a typical mom line that I had to say it.
You are the joy of my life and your dad's and no matter what you do you should know that we will always love you and we will always be here for you. Nothing can change that. I love you to the moon and back.

I'M THE SKINNIEST GIRL IN THE WORLD

Okay, so not really, but this is how I have felt for the past 23 glorious days.

That is because on July 20 at 12:53 a.m. our sweet Caleb Lawrence entered the world. Our little man weighed 8 lbs and 9.8 ounces, and honestly was the prettiest baby I've ever seen. I know I am going to be biased because he is mine, but I was fully expecting him to be all alien like. Even some of the nurses throughout the week made comments on how pretty he was. One said she honestly has never told a couple that because newborns are just not pretty and she is not going to lie just to make someone feel better and she thought he was beautiful.

After he came back from the nursery. Loving him so much!

Our first fam pic- sorry Daniel, you're head got a little chopped off

Just hours old, sorry I don't know how to flip itMeeting his grandparents for the first time, since they didn't get to see him the night he was born due to his breathing probs and fever

Anyway, the past 23 days with our little coccolo (italian for pampered, chubby baby) have been heavenly. He honestly, knock on wood, is a great baby. He has maybe cried once for more than a minute or two, but even that was about a 5 minute spell. And better yet, he only wakes up once in the middle of the night, and then early morning but will still go back to sleep so as to let his lazy mama get at least 8-10 hours of good sleep.

We've had a couple of problems but they have all been resolved. Little cocco was immediately taken to the nursery for observation when born because he was having breathing problems and running a fever. Then when we came home he was having latch on problems, but after he dropped a full pound from his birth weight, he was 3 ounces over his birth weight by the next Thursday and at 3 weeks was a full 10 lbs.

Anyway, my hubs just came home for a surprise visit, so this is a good place to leave off and say I'll be back later to finish the rest!

Take a Walk in my Shoes

First of all can we have a moment of celebration, it's JULY!!!!!!!!!! No matter how late, or how early, or if he is exactly on time that means we will not be entering the next month without my baby boy! How wonderful is that.

Nonetheless, it still seems to just be dragging on and on. So, I have been spending the time listening to people's labor self-induction theories. From castor oil to Sonic Chili Cheese Dogs to jump rope, there are definitely some good ones.

While I haven't gotten desperate enough to try any yet, I have continued my walking, because I have always heard that walking will help the labor process and help to naturally move the baby down. (There might be some truth to that since he dropped 2 weeks ago-- fingers crossed it also works for the easing of labor pain as well (: )

Anyway, it has become too hot to walk outside, even on most nights, so I have been walking up at the old basketball coliseum. There are always others walking, or running, or doing the stairs, and because it's summer, there are a lot of different camps in and out every week. Typically cheer, dance or basketball. All of these camps add a little excitement to the walk because they give me something entertaining other than a mundane continuous walking in circles.

However, none of the camps, not even the little bitty kids playing basketball with the balls being 4 times the size of their head could compare to these two men that are at the coliseum every day with me.

Well the other day I turned major creeper and decided I would see if I could get pictures of these two men with my phone without them noticing so that I could share their stories with the blog world.

So without further adieu, may I first introduce you to the world's fastest old man.

This man, while it may be hard to see from this grainy little pic, this man is pushing 80. The outift seen in this picture is his uniform. Seriously orange shirt, grey shorts everyday, it never fails.

Okay, so taking in his age, one would figure, that while it is great that this man is still exercising, he would be slow. Well, as I have learned, this is clearly not the case. This dude either teleports himself throughout the coliseum to mess with my head or he is clearly the world's fast walker. No joke.

This guy will be in front of me at one second and within the next 30 seconds he is gone. No matter how fast I walk to try and see where he went, he is gone. I have walked in and out of the arena to the outer lap, looked all around the stairs and corridors, and I never can find him. My original thought was he knew a short cut and wasn't going the whole outer lap, but no I don't know what happens.

I'll be sitting there wondering what happened to my orange shirted friend and all of the sudden he will be behind me. Lapping me or what, I don't know, but seriously, where did this guy come from?

I have been telling people about him and I don't think anyone gets it, that's while I took the pic. It's my proof that he does exist, haha.

Anyway, I guess the orange shirted speedracer will remain unsolved until I can get someone who isn't 38 weeks preg to walk with me and follow this man, haha.

Anyway, onto my next walkin' pal. The topless Lothario.

This man, I don't even know where to start. This picture does his story no justice. He runs the stairs, which is fine. Pre-Caleb man I too ran the stairs. However, here is what separates dude from me- he strips down to his tight little shorts before beginning his workout. Now, while I don't want to knock him since he is apparently trying to better himself through exercise and I 100% commend that, the man is about 280-300 pounds and has floppy body parts that no one wants to see. I will give him this though, at least he's not hairy. If he were hairy, I'd have to change my walking time because I would not be able to take it.

Anyway, the man seems to think nothing of it, even though at any given time there are10-20 other walkers/runners/ step climbers who are always fully clothed. To make matters worse the dude sweats buckets. It's disturbing.

While it really would make it more comfortable for all if he wore a shirt, you can't help but admire the guys confidence and his perserverance to be there every day to exercise.

So while these two guys baffle me in their own ways, I guess there are admirable qualities to each of them and they entertain me on my otherwise boring walks. So thanks strange men who I walk with. Oh, yeah, and sorry for being a creeper and taking your pics, but they just added that something extra to this blog post.

The Past Week

Call me a slacker because that's what I've been this past week when it comes to blogging. So, just in case someone is actually interested in my mundane life, let's play a quick game of catch up.

Last Wednesday, June 23, was mine and Daniel's third wedding anniversary.

It was pretty funny when we woke up that morning and started talking about how much life has changed from this anniversary and our last two. Let's compare, shall we....

Our first anniversary we went away to Puerto Rico. While there we ate at quite possible the most delicious restaurant either of us have ever eaten- Dragonfly in Old San Juan. We stayed at a beautiful resort and went shopping at the massive mall. We hiked waterfalls in the El Yunque, kayaked in the bioluminescent bay, explored ancient forts and ate at other delish restaurants (though none compared to Dragonfly). This anniversary was quite the milestone for those that were in touch with us our first year as we definitely had a rough time with struggling to adjust to island life, as well as newlywed life and all the adjusting that brings. To further celebrate Daniel surprised me with a trip to Aruba as my gift and we hopped on over to Aruba less than 2 weeks later to continue the anniversary celebration.

Our second anniversary, wasn't quite as adventurous, but we had big news to celebrate this time. We were leaving the island and moving back to Auburn, AL. I was going to finish school and Daniel was going to return for his PhD. We knew life would be changing since we were both quitting our jobs, but we were excited. (needless to say we definitely didn't realize how much life would be changing) While we spent our actual anniversary on St. Croix, we had just returned from Auburn where we had found our future home and had time to see some family (very brief home since in September we bought some land and began building) as well as a cruise at the end of May as a Katie birthday/ D&K anniversary gift. On our actual anniversary we dined at Savant our favorite island restaurant. We toasted to the changes that God was bringing our way and enjoyed the night.

Fast forward another year, and to most, it would seem our anniversary was crappy compared. But for us it was the best one yet. We woke up in our bed- in OUR HOME- with a bassinet next to us. While this bassinet was empty, we couldn't help but be delighted in looking at it knowing that in 3 short weeks or so, we would have the ultimate blessing there with us. We then discussed what we would do that night. Unlike previous years, there was not going to be $200 dinners or lavish trips, life had changed. But as we say, we are rich in ways beyond finances and in ways that truly bring happiness to life. Haha- hey it makes us feel better. So, this anniversary we found ourselves wanting to make the day special but conscientious of money as we are now focused on our little man and not ourselves.

Creole Shack

A little too close for comfort, but here we are 3 years in, and 36 weeks and 5 days preg

Luckily, I had won 2 movie tickets a few months back from a radio contest. So a movie was put into the plans and then I had free subs from Subway coupons, so we could eat out too.

No, it wasn't the luxurious anniversaries of years past, but we knew this one was the best yet.

In the end, we did end up going to a movie- Knight and Day to be exact. But we didn't eat at Subway, instead we tried out the Creole Shack-- a little hole in the wall up the road that we had always wanted to try.

Oh my word are we glad we did! This place was unbelievable. We had an appetizer and two entrees for $21 and the food was seriously out of this word good. Now, notice I didn't say healthy, but good it was. Between dinner and the movie we went and walked the mall like old geezers. Then it was off to CVS for candy and then to the movie. It wasn't the best movie of all time, but it was great to get out of the house and just enjoy each other's company.

So, yes 3 years in and things have changed drastically. From a beach front condo on a Caribbean island, to a humble 3 bedroom home in Alabama. And you know what, neither of us would change it for the world. This 3rd year of marriage is going to be the best yet as we have more than we could ever ask for with the upcoming arrival of our sweet baby boy. Have I mentioned God is good!

Anyway, that was Wednesday. On Friday, Daniel's parents got in town. We hung out with them Friday night. Saturday Daniel had an exam then we went over to his parents' club house and watched the US soccer game with his parents and grandmother. We went to Niffer's for dinner, DQ for dessert and after hanging out a little more called it a night. Daniel's grandmother spent the night with us and Sunday we were up bright and early for church.

This is my favorite part-- we have finally decided on a church (I think?!?! lol) Auburn United Methodist Church. It was the first one we went to way back when and we have been back a bunch among visiting all of the other churches, but after returning this weekend we feel this church is going to be the best fit for us. It took us a while to decide on one. I think we were looking for the perfect fit, and we all know that there will always be problems no matter where you are especially when you are looking.

On a side note, I do ask that you continue to pray for us though in this area, just that we have found the right church and that our family can bring as much to this church as possible and that we can also take from it and grow in God's desire as much as possible.

Monday night was our last childbirth class. Not to sound cynical, and this is really all I am going to say about it at this time, but these classes were a waste of time and money. We learned nothing, however, we did have some good laughs at the expense of others. Not nice, I know, but true. I mean you wouldn't believe some of the things that came out of these people's mouths. You just have to hope that when their baby arrives that parental instinct and common sense kick in at some point.

That brings us to today. Nothing too exciting. Just some house chores and pool time for me and school for Daniel.

Tomorrow is our 38 week check up, here's to hoping we get some good progressive news!

A Sneak Peak..

So, these pictures are far from good and the room is still a work in progress, but here are some nursery pics. Once it's complete this weekend with the glider and all, and I get my SLR camera skills up to par I will upload better ones.

One side of the room, minus the left part of the wall which is still a work in progress. Daniel built the bookcase from scratch and I painted the canvas up top. Still have to add a Bible verse, but I really want it to be a verse he can hold onto throughout life, so I have yet to find the one I want to stick with. There are so many great ones!

Knobs I painted for his revamped dresser. I like to see the dresser as vintage chic, some might prefer budget friendly, others just plain ol' cheap =). Either way, he'll love it.

Window and junk in front. It's more cleaned up now, but still not perfect. Need to figure out stuff to put on the walls possibly. Now the bookcase is in the left corner and the glider is going in the right, but I'm thinking about painting some canvases and stuff, a la the rec of Erica. It will add to the room and give me something to do to pass the time.

Perfecting the Waddle

Well, according to my ticker at the top of the page I only have about 25 days to go, if the lil man arrives on his due date. However, I have my fingers crossed that he'll be a little earlier-- as long as he is healthy-- because this kid has dropped and he has me waddling everywhere I go now.

As we know, per Dr. Marino's lovely description of my "good sized kid", Caleb' is not exactly the smallest of babies. Now that he has dropped I am feeling just how "good sized" he is. I have carried low the entire pregnancy but now the kid is practically hanging out at my knees and my lower back is feeling it.

While it's not excruciating, it's not pleasant. Thus I am asking for the early reprieve. I have also been having contractions more regularly, but as the docs say and the trusty What to Expect When You're Expecting book, that doesn't mean crud for first time mommas. The baby could drop anywhere from 2-4 weeks before delivery and contractions could start at 30 weeks and you could still go full term.

So while these little signs aren't exactly the golden ticket to knowing I am going into labor soon, at least they are a sign that things are progressing ever so slowly.

Luxuriating at the Lundy Chase Pool

Curious about the title? Well, no worries, that's just my word of the week after watching TLC's Toddlers and Tiaras (hey, cut me some slack, I am seriously bored so I just have my tivo set to record any and every show that might speed my days up some while I sit inside these walls). So anyway, this week there were 3 fams, as always, and one was a family from Loganville, GA. Well, not to take away from the family, because the little girl was just lovely, but let's just say the
mom was a bit different and she had a word she used all the time- luxuriating.

So anyway, she would throw that word out all the time. She would tell her daughter to "luxuriate across the stage" "luxuriate in her beauty" etc. etc. Never once did she describe what the word meant and by her various and sundry uses, context clues did not help.

Anyway, come to find out, it is a real word. But the mom definitely didn't use it correctly per dictionary.com and neither am I going to. I like that she made it her own and so shall I-- ha!

So, I have adopted the word luxuriate and for me it means to relax in a luxurious way. Not that our neighborhood pool is luxurious, but it is relaxing, and when you're 36 weeks pregnant, it's not going to get much more luxurious than the neighborhood pool.

So, that's what I've been doing this week. I've been luxuriating.

I now am the proud sporter of some wickedly awesome tanlines.

Due to the fact that I was too practical- or cheap as some might view it :)- to invest in a maternity swimsuit, I only really have 2 suits to choose from. They are each non maternity tankini tops and regular bottoms. Well, they each still fit, but one is longer so it covers more of the bulbous baby belly I am toting around, so I wear it more. It just so happens that this suit also has much thicker straps and, man oh man, if I don't have the worse white stripes running around my neck and down to the top of my chest. Not to mention how white my belly is compared to the rest of me as well. Oh yes, and then there is the fact that I am two-toned.

My front is tanner than my back because I can't lay on my belly. Let's face it, it's just not going to happen. You try balancing all of your weight on a basketball and lying there for an extended period of time. Oh yes and also consider this so-called basketball is the most precious thing in the world to you and it is constantly moving.

Yeah, not laughing so hard now, are ya? It just can't be done. Preggo women were not meant to be evenly tanned.

So for now I will embrace my multicolored bod, and continue luxuriating at the pool- aka trying to sweat Caleb out- until the time comes for my handsome man to arrive!

D-Day = T minus 1 month!

So we went in for the 36 week check-up today. I just knew there was going to be some progress..... nope not a darn thing.

We are no longer seeing Dr. Hensarling since she is set to deliver in two weeks, so we went to Dr.Marino today the other young doctor. He measured my belly then felt around on it to feel Caleb and literally said, "Well, don't know if you know this, but that is a pretty good size baby you got there."

Thanks, dude. I know. I have been told the whole time, except the very very beginning when he was measuring small for the first 6 weeks, that he was a big boy. I don't want to hear it anymore or I am going to have nightmares of birthing watermelons the size of Duke for the next month.

Anyway, he thought maybe there would be some progress, and got my hopes all up, but alas there was nothing.

So that's the big news for today, that and that the official due date is one month from today. Fingers crossed the little man isn't as stubborn as his mom and dad and maybe decides to debut a little early because I am miserable.

Not miserable in that I am huge and immobile and just bitter, but miserable in that I sit in this dang house all day with nothing to do because it is too hot outside for a big ol' preggo lady. I miss walking outside with Duke and I miss class. That is sad.

Selfishly, I am also hoping for an early arrival so that I have more time to get acclimated before school starts. One, I need to get used to the whole baby depending on me for everything. Two, I want to be healed and able to walk and work out by the time school starts. I have only gained 22.5- 23 lbs so far, but those are 22.5 or 23 lbs that I am ready to shed asap. Hey, you try being 24 on a college campus that Playboy time and time again says has the prettiest girls, and you tell me those size 0's and 2's aren't enough to make you want to skip a meal or ten.

Other than the boredom I think I have nested all I can nest. There is one slight glitch, however. The glider and storage ottoman we ordered from Premier Fabrics in Germantown is back ordered. Seriously, I didn't pay what I did to not have this on time, especially when I was given a very latest finish date of next Friday. This is not cool people, not cool at all.

I need to find some way to get some more color into his room as well. Maybe I should have painted the walls, I just didn't feel like the hassle. Although our neighbor, Rick, who owns his own painting business has offered to do it for free, but I feel like it's a little late in the game to be picking out paint colors and embarking on all of that now.

I also can't hang everything until we have the glider because I don't know how everything will fit together so that is another issue I am running into.

Can you tell I am bored? I am rambling like a mad woman.

I guess I'll stop.

Maybe I'll go to the pool, it's not as hot today, but most likely I won't. I am going to go walk in the old coliseum at 4. That will eat some time. But not enough. If you have any cures for boredom send them and send them fast. My patience ship is slowly sinking.

And the nesting continues

That nesting bug that seemed to bite me hard a little over a week ago, still hasn't left.

Daniel and I have spent all weekend continuing our work to make this the best and most beautiful house possible for the little man before he arrives.

Last night I cleaned, this morning I cleaned, this afternoon I cleaned... get the picture. It wasn't like the was was just that dirty, it was just that I wanted it that clean.

Oh and this was all in between our 3 Lowe's runs thus far since yesterday.

We have completely redone our landscaping. Halleluljiah! We hated the crap they put in when we were building the house and we were happy to say goodbye boxwoods and pine straw, hello azaelas, hydrangeas, flowers, dogwoods and more. Here are some pics!
working on the front yard. Goodbye boxwoods, hello azaelas

backyard, one of the plots before (well technically a mid work shot because he'd already uprooted the bushes and pinestraw)

And after, the hydrangeas. Doesn't the satellite dish add such a great touch, ha!
All of the nasty boxwoods. And look after 6 months, they still hadn't rooted, the landscaping was so pathetic that they did.