The Ray Family

17 Weeks

2012-02-16T08:30:00.000-05:00

How Far Along: 17 weeks

Size of baby: Onion

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +7...we ate a lot of good food this weekend :)

Maternity Clothes: Only wearing maternity pants now...sometimes regular pants. Shirts are still regular. I tried on some pants that I bought when I was pregnant with Annabelle...and I hardly fit into them. Good thing, I am more fit than when I was pregnant with Annabelle...bad thing, I have nothing to wear :)

Gender: It's a BOY! Maxwell {Max} Andrew

Movement: As I am typing, he is kicking my belly button.

Sleep: Much better this week! I have been sleeping with my body pillow in front, and a regular pillow behind me.

What I miss: Not aching all the time. Every time I sneeze, cough, or do chores...my belly aches. Thanks to Round Ligament Pain.

Cravings: Red meat, potatoes

Symptoms: Tired, heartburn, indigestion

Best moment this week: Getting to rest some while Annabelle was at my parents.

Valentine's 2012

2012-02-15T14:48:00.000-05:00

Our weekend was pretty uneventful. Annabelle spent the weekend with my parents...and I'm betting their's was anything but :)

They took Annabelle out to pizza and grocery shopping Friday night.
Saturday, they attended story time at their local Barnes & Noble. And to a dinner party that night.
Sunday, my parents had everyone over for a birthday celebration for my brother and sister-in-law.

And while Annabelle was living it up at Grammy and Pappy's...Collin and I enjoyed Chinese Friday night, shopping and steaks on Saturday. Pretty much we were lazy :) Collin did venture out on his bike on the coldest day we have had all winter.

Annabelle has been so excited about her birthday ALL WEEK! Every morning I hear "Is it my birthday mommy?". And yesterday when she was waking up, I wished her a Happy Valentine's Day...to which she replied "Yeah! It's my birthday!". I cannot wait for her party this Saturday! She is going to be so excited!

Dressed up for Valentine's Day at school!

We ended our Valentine's night snuggling on the couch :)

And after she went to sleep last night, we got a call from Collin's Grandmother in Jacksonville...and they are coming up for Annabelle's party! We are so excited to see them!!

16 Weeks

2012-02-09T08:30:00.000-05:00

How Far Along: 16 weeks

Size of baby: Avocado

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +5

Maternity Clothes: Only wearing maternity pants now. Shirts are still regular.

Gender: It's a BOY! Maxwell {Max} Andrew

Movement: More and more kicks!

Sleep: This week has been both good and bad. Some nights I go to bed, and I don't wake up...other nights I'm very restless.

What I miss: Good sleep! I know I would sleep better if I was on my tummy :)

Cravings: Savory foods!

Symptoms: Tired, heartburn, indigestion

Best moment this week: Finding out we were expecting our sweet Max! And looking at boy clothes...so cute!

It's a...

2012-02-06T10:24:00.000-05:00

What a weekend!! I have been looking forward to this weekend for about a month now. It was jam packed with friends, family, and a sweet baby :)

Friday, Carson and Laurice had us over for our monthly First Friday. I'm so glad we still get together with our old smallgroup. We have formed life long relationships, and the kids play so well together!!

Saturday was the big day! I could hardly sleep! I was so happy that my parents and Collin's mom and step-dad were able to be there to find out what baby #2 is. Baby Dimensions was so nice, and would definitely recommend it to anyone!
We sat down {Our family on nice comfy couches, Annabelle and me in a nice comfy recliner with Collin beside us}, The tech came in a started the ultrasound. She showed us the whole body and the heartbeat. She said that she was going to let us guess, but before she could get a between the legs shot, I saw what I was looking for. I then announced to the whole room that

It's a BOY!

Maxwell {Max} Andrew

Profile

His little bottom :)

I cried {but I knew I would} because I was so excited to know who was in my belly. So funny: I thought the ENTIRE time that it was a girl!

She took some more pictures. And at the end, Annabelle said "See what's in my belly".

We got done earlier than expected at the ultrasound, and had plans to do lunch at Panera Bread...so we just headed over for coffee and cookies before lunch :) Allen, Whitney, and Gracie joined us for lunch.

We did a little shopping, then headed home.

That night, Collin and Annabelle headed out on a little date...she was so excited, she picked out her outfit, she had to have her fancy coat, and her purse :)

While they were on their date, I had a girl's night "Crock-pot Recipe Swap". It was so nice to hang out and have girl talk and eat some good food!

Sunday, was church, lunch, and over to see Chris and Kelly's new house! It is so beautiful! We are so excited for them!!
Last minute we had friends over the watch the game. It was very laid back and a lot of fun!

Weston showing Annabelle how to play Angry Birds

Always on the phones

These 2 are Best Friends for life!

15 weeks

2012-02-02T08:30:00.000-05:00

How Far Along: 15 weeks

Size of baby: Orange

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +4

Maternity Clothes: I wore maternity pants for the first time on Wednesday.

Gender: 49 hours & 30 minutes till we find out!

Movement: Monday I was at my desk doing something, and felt this weird movement...and even thought "hmm, that was weird!". I then realized, those were baby kicks!

Sleep: This week has been both good and bad. Some nights I go to bed, and I don't wake up...other nights I'm very restless.

What I miss: Good sleep! I know I would sleep better if I was on my tummy :)

Cravings: Savory foods!

Symptoms: Tired, heartburn, indigestion

Best moment this week: Feeling baby kicks!

The BEST kind of Weekend!

2012-01-30T14:32:00.000-05:00

We had nothing really planned this weekend...but had lots to do!

Friday, I took Annabelle to meet her BFF, Tayler, and her momma for a Kindermusik class. The first class was free, so we wanted to just see what it was about. The girls LOVED it! They sangs songs, played instruments, played games...it will definitely be something we try again!
We had a bunch of errands to run after the class, and poor Annabelle was so sleepy! We got home and she went down for a 3 HOUR NAP!
We enjoyed a night at home watching movies. Annabelle went to sleep at 8:00, and I was asleep at 8:15 :)

Saturday, was BEAUTIFUL! The temps were in the 60's, and we decided to have a picnic at the park. Laurice and Weston joined us, and the kids had so much fun playing, eating, and walking around picking up sticks.
All these pictures are from Laurice:

Bossy pants Annabelle and Sweet Weston that does what she says :)

We enjoyed another 3 hour nap {!}, and another night in!

Sunday, was church, a little shopping for me {with Mom and Whitney}, and little lunch for Collin and Annabelle. And to round out the weekend, Annabelle took her 3rd, 3 hour nap!
We FINALLY finished Radical with our Home Group Sunday night, while the kids enjoyed a movie and balloons. I wish I would have taken a picture of them with their balloons...the LOVED them!

SO READY for next weekend! Finding out what Baby Ray #2 is!

14 Weeks

2012-01-26T08:30:00.014-05:00

How Far Along: 14 weeks

Size of baby: Lemon

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +3

Maternity Clothes: Still in pre pregnancy clothes...although they are getting tighter :)

Gender: 1 week and 1 day till we find out!

Movement: Bubbles, and sometimes a thump here and there.

Sleep: Still so good!

What I miss: Sleeping on my belly and a glass of wine :)

Cravings: Savory foods!

Symptoms: Tired...and the heartburn and indigestion have started :( It is awful! Thankful for Tums to relieve heartburn and a new trick my coworker told me to relieve the indigestion. Here's to another hairy baby :)

Best moment this week: Annabelle talking to the baby :)

First Belly Picture!

The week I wish to forget!

2012-01-24T12:20:00.000-05:00

We had a pretty awful week last week...they say bad things come in 3's, and it was true for us.

Sunday, my dad went into the hospital with crest pains. Luckily, the ER staff didn't play around, and got him in a room quick. It was determined that night, that he did not have have a heart attack. Since he was in Fayetteville {more than an hour from our house}, I decided not to go to the hospital.

Monday, Mom called and said that daddy may have had a minor heart attack and that he was about to have a heart cath performed. I left work, so I could be with my mom. After all was said and done...it was determined that he has a leaky heart valve and an enlarged heart muscle. He is on medicine to reduce the muscle, but may need surgery in the future.

Wednesday, when I was waking Annabelle up and getting her out of her crib, she grabbed on to my fingers to pull herself up and dislocated her elbow {although we didn't know that at the time}. She was crying, and holding her left arm to her chest. She finally calmed down, and we tried to get her jammies off, but when we would move her arm, she would cry.

We decided we should take her to the doctor, and avoid going to the ER. Her doctor's office doesn't open until 9 {this happened before 6:30}, so we got there as soon as they opened. I was then informed that the doctor's were in a staff meeting until 10:30. I was then told, that I should take her to the ER.

I decided then to take her to an Immediate Care Clinic not far from the hospital.
They were super nice, asked us what happened and how old she was...we got signed in and paid the co pay, then waited for our names to be called. The nurse took us back to the room and got Annabelle's vitals, and shortly after that the doctor came in. He listened to her chest , looked {DIDN'T TOUCH} her arm, and said he couldn't do anything and left the room. I was a mess by this point. A nurse came in told us to go the Children's Healthcare of Atlanta. And I asked for my money back.

By this time it was close to 10:30, so we headed back to Annabelle's doctor's office. I was told that the doctor's weren't there yet, but I could wait to see if they could fit us in. We waited 10 minutes, and were told that the doctor's were booked with WELL VISITS and could only see her at 4:00!!!! We were told to go to another Immediate Care Clinic near there.

I put Annabelle back into the car, and called before I even left the hospital. The Immediate Care Clinic would see Annabelle, but could not reduce {fix} her dislocated elbow, and they would send us to Children's Healthcare of Atlanta.

By this point I was the "Crazy Momma", my child was hurt...and I just wanted her to not hurt anymore. Collin arrived, and I'm so glad he did!

And we decided to just take her to the ER, since we were at the hospital. When the nurse was taking vitals, Collin had to leave...but it wasn't long till we were in a room. Not 3 minutes in the room, the doctor comes in, stretches Annabelle's arm out, turned it the the right, then the left, and it popped back into place. Annabelle cried for a minute, but then stopped when he came back in with a Popsicle.

Holding the Popsicle with her "hurt" arm

We stayed there for a little bit, the doctor wanted to see her use her arm, then we had to be discharged.
We stopped and got nuggets {Chick Fil A} for lunch, then home for a 3 hour nap!

She wanted to sleep on Mommy's pillow

Friday we had a fun playdate with Annabelle's BFF Tayler! The girls play so well together, and I got to snuggle Blake and chat with Jenn.

Sweet friends!

We had lunch at Chick Fil A, and they played some more :)
That night Annabelle spent the night with her Nana and Pawpaw, while Collin and I had a date night to PF Changs...yum!

Saturday, was rainy and I cleaned and sweet Collin went grocery shopping in the storm.
Collin pick Annabelle up and on the way home she got sick. And she was sick for the rest of the night. We contained her in the living room, and had a big bowl by her side...thank goodness or we would have had a big mess on our hands.

Sunday, Annabelle and I stayed home all day watching Dora and Lion King. She was eating and drinking. and by Monday was back to herself.

Last week just wasn't a good one :( Hoping this weekend is better!

13 Weeks

2012-01-19T16:12:00.000-05:00

How Far Along: 13 weeks

Size of baby: Peach

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +1.5

Maternity Clothes: Everything is still pre-pregnancy clothes...but I need to go through what I already have and see if I can start wearing any of it.

Gender: We find out February 4th!! And I'm pretty sure was have narrowed down our names! And I have have a feeling :)

Movement: Still just bubbles

Sleep: So good, and frequent :)

What I miss: Nothing...other than sleeping on my belly...this is the theme :)

Cravings: Savory foods!

Symptoms: Tired

Best moment this week: Starting the 2nd trimester!

Catch Up!

2012-01-16T08:30:00.000-05:00

Between birthday parties, spending time with family, and me hitting the sack at 8:00...I haven't found the time to catch up.

LAST WEEKEND:
My parents and grandma came over for dinner. It was our last chance to spend one-on-one time with grandma. Annabelle just loves her GG, and they looked at the veins in their hands for the longest time.

I spent the night with my parents that night, and the next day mom, grandma, and me had a girls day. We lunch at a tea room, then did a little shopping.
Before we knew it, it was time for Gracie's 1st birthday party! We got there early to help set up.
The party was so sweet, and Gracie looked cute in her tutu :)

Sunday, we started back with our home group. just 2 other couples showed up...so we just ate and the girls played.

THIS WEEKEND:
Friday night, we had the best night in! We made biscuit pizzas, and Annabelle loves to help me make them :)

Saturday, we attended Sophia's 3rd birthday party! It was so much fun! Annabelle loved jumping, jumping, and jumping!
After all that jumping, we got hungry...so we, of course, had Chick Fil A for lunch with Laurice and Weston.
When we got home, I could tell Annabelle was tired, so I told her it was nap time. I walk into her room, and saw this:

Crazy girl!

We another night in! Exactly what we needed! I was asleep by 9:00.

Sunday, our whole group came over and we enjoyed a yummy dinner and conversation, while the kids played and watched The Lion King.

Christmas 2011 & New Year's 2012

2012-01-15T08:30:00.000-05:00

Whew! We've had a busy couple of weeks...and I have a lot of catching up to do.
First of all, my grandma was in town from Washington...we had such a special Christmas with her! She left to go back home Monday, and we are surely going to miss her!

Our Christmas began December 18th, we had Christmas with Collin's mom and step dad. In leiu of gifts this year, we bought gifts for a local women's shelter. We had good food and good fun! It's always crazy, because there are 8 little kids and 12 adults.

Monday, December 19th my grandma arrived into town! We finally got to see her the next day at a party my dad was playing Santa. Annabelle spent the night with my parents, and got to spend some special time with her GG on Wednesday.
Wednesday was my last day of work until January 3rd! I was so glad to be able to really enjoy Christmas with my family! Thursday, I took my grandma for some last minute shopping...and by the time we got home and wrapped the last of the presents we were DONE! We napped on the couches for a long time :)

Christmas Eve, we enjoyed the morning running a few last minute errands and breakfast as a family. And this was the first year we were able to attend our Church's Christmas Eve service. I was so happy to go and even bring my grandma!

After the service we made our way to my Aunt's house for dinner. Annabelle was given a BEAUTIFUL red Radio Flyer tricycle! She loved and I was a nervous wreck.

We left my Aunt's house to go to my parents house to open presents with them. We let the girls open their presents first, and us adults had more fun watching them! Annabelle loved opening her presents and wanted to play with everything right then :)

After the girls were done, it was the adults turn. I think we finally got done 2 hours after we began!

Christmas morning, we had to WAKE Annabelle up at 9:00 to see what Santa brought. We enjoyed opening presents, eating, and even had a mini church service at our house {Thanks to Westhills!}.

After: we relaxed, watched movies, read, played, and slept the day away.

We did Christmas with the Ray's that night, had tasty beef stew, and opened more presents. I love watching Annabelle and Weston play, they are so sweet together!

The rest of my vacation was filled relaxing, doctor's appointments, family, shopping, friends, and food!

Our New Year's was spent at Carson and Laurice's. Nothing to big...just food and friends! Annabelle stayed up to ring in the New Year, but thankfully crashed not to long after midnight!

12 Weeks

2012-01-12T08:30:00.000-05:00

How Far Along: 12 weeks

Size of baby: Plum

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +1

Maternity Clothes: I really need to break those out this weekend...my pants are getting tighter these days:)

Gender: We find out February 4th!! And I'm pretty sure was have narrowed down our names!

Movement: Still just bubbles

Sleep: So good, and frequent :)

What I miss: Sleeping on my belly! I think that is what I will miss most this pregnancy :(

Cravings: Savory foods!

Symptoms: Tired

Best moment this week: Turning 12 weeks! I can't believe how fast this pregnancy is going!

11 Weeks

2012-01-05T11:45:00.000-05:00

How Far Along: 11 weeks

Size of baby: Lime

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +0...This is HUGE! I have been eating better and working out this pregnancy...much different from Annabelle's!

Maternity Clothes: Not yet..I was already wearing maternity pants by this time with Annabelle.

Gender: We find out February 4th!! And I'm pretty sure was have narrowed down our names!

Movement: This morning I am positive I felt the baby!

Sleep: So good, and frequent :)

What I miss: Sleeping on my belly! I can still do it, but I wake up sore. I try to keep my body pillow under my belly to make things more comfy.

Cravings: Salty foods, Savory foods

Symptoms: Tired, nauseous.

Best moment this week: Getting an ultrasound! There is just ONE baby {contrary to Annabelle's belief :)}, and the baby was moving around like crazy!! Love the sweet pictures we got of Baby Ray.2

Full Body: Side

Profile

Full Body: Front

2011

2011-12-31T08:30:00.000-05:00

2011 was a fun filled year! Can't wait to see what 2012 brings!

January:

February:

March:

April:

May:

June:

July:

August:

September:

October:

November:

December:

10 Weeks

2011-12-29T08:30:00.001-05:00

How Far Along: 10 weeks

Size of baby: Prune

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +0

Maternity Clothes: Not yet.

Gender: Can't wait to find out!

Movement: I feel bubbles every now and then, but I'm not sure if it's really the baby.

Sleep: This week, I have napped at least 3 times...love the extra burst of energy I get at night!

What I miss: Sleeping on my belly!

Cravings: Salty foods, Savory foods

Symptoms: Tired, nauseous.

Best moment this week: FINALLY going to the doctor! We did not get an ultrasound {We are going January 5th for our first peek at the baby}, but we did get to hear the heartbeat! 150 BPM.

2011-12-25T08:30:00.000-05:00

9 Weeks

2011-12-22T08:30:00.000-05:00

How Far Along: 9 weeks

Size of baby: Olive

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +0

Maternity Clothes: Not yet.

Gender: Can't wait to find out!

Movement: I feel bubbles every now and then, but I'm not sure if it's really the baby.

Sleep: I sleep A LOT! But, Insomina is starting up :(

What I miss: Sleeping on my belly!

Cravings: Savory foods. I want Red Meat.

Symptoms: Tired, nauseous.

Best moment this week: Getting ready for Christmas! My grandmother is in town...love spending time with her!

Random Stuff

2011-12-20T09:30:00.000-05:00

This weekend, we had to buy FOUR new tires for my car. Bummer. I knew it was coming, but it still stinks! I also had to have my car aligned. In conclusion...we have spend a lot of moohla on my car this weekend!
We FINISHED Christmas shopping this weekend!
I have been feeling pretty crummy lately, and all because...

We are so excited to be adding to our family! I'm Due July 26th!

Annabelle has been telling me "Mommy, I got 2 babies in my belly like you do!" Cannot WAIT to have my first ultrasound next week :)
Sunday night, when I thought Annabelle was sleeping {it was 10:00 pm}, she busted into The Hokey Pokey...and I busted out laughing!
My Grandma arrived in Georgia last night! I cannot wait to see her! She'll be here until the 2nd weekend in January!
I work today and tomorrow...then off until January 3rd!!

8 Weeks

2011-12-15T08:30:00.000-05:00

How Far Along: 8 weeks

Size of baby: Raspberry

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +0

Maternity Clothes: Not yet.

Gender: Can't wait to find out!

Movement: I feel bubbles, but I'm not sure if that's the baby, or my mind playing tricks on me.

Sleep: So good! I'm tired ALL.THE.TIME! I've had a hard time staying awake to do chores around the house. So thankful for Collin...without him, we may not have clean clothes!

What I miss: Sleeping on my belly!

Cravings: Savory foods

Symptoms: Tired, nauseous.

Best moment this week: Going public with our news! We announced our pregnancy on our Christmas card :)

Life Happens

2011-12-13T13:47:00.000-05:00

We have had a lot on our plate lately. Between Christmas, sick kiddo, sick momma, a new refrigerator, parties, and get togethers...I haven't had time to compose my thoughts!
LAST weekend:
Friday I had my office "Holiday Party", always dull...blah!

Saturday morning, we woke up and had Christmas breakfast at Cracker Barrel with our dearest friends! So much fun, even if Annabelle was stealing bacon off our preacher's plate :)
When we got home, I noticed our freezer wasn't freezing. So we called a appliance repair store, they came out...and within 2 hours, we were told we could pay to get a new compressor {but would be better to just purchase a new one}.

Saturday night {after moving some food to Carson and Laurice's :)}, we headed to see the big man! We met momma, daddy, Allen, Whitney, and Gracie for an early dinner at Maggianos...so yummy!! I ate, and ate, and ate! Then we scooted to Phipps Plaza for our appointment to see Santa!
Annabelle was pumped, until I picked her up and tried to put her in his lap...she had the death grip on my neck :)
We first did a picture of both girls, then Annabelle, then Gracie. Gracie did so good! Although I think she was worried about Annabelle :)

Annabelle was traumatized, poor girl cried for 20 minutes :(

We walked around Phipps, then across the street to Target.

Sunday, Annabelle wasn't feeling well...so we skipped church. But we did pick Collin up so we could pick out our new fridge! It was kinda fun. We got a Whirlpool, with a pull out freezer...and I LOVE it!
Thankfully Collin was able to pick it up and install it {with the help of our friend Josh} that afternoon.

Monday, I kept Annabelle home from school, and I took her to the doctor...sure enough she had a double ear infection. Got some meds, and she is feeling a 1,000x better!

Thursday, Laurice and I took the kids to ride The Pink Pig {or The Pig Choo Choo}. They loved it! And wanted to ride it once it was over. We had a good time walking through Lenox.

She was pumped that she had her VERY OWN ticket!

Friday, we had a date night with our old smallgroup. Collin and I got to plan it, so we suggested Ice Skating. It was so much fun!! Annabelle spent the night with her Grammy and Pappy...spoiled like always :)

Saturday, Collin and I got up and enjoyed breakfast, and a quick trip to Home Depot for supplies to spiffy up a gift for Annabelle :) I cleaned and baked 4 DOZEN cupcakes for Chris' Surprise Graduation Party that night!

Sunday, after church all 3 of us crashed until the church Christmas party that night.

Whew! I think that catches me up!
A lot of rambling! ha!

7 Weeks

2011-12-08T08:30:00.001-05:00

How Far Along: 7 weeks

Size of baby: Blueberry

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +0

Maternity Clothes: Not yet.

Gender: Can't wait to find out!

Movement: Not yet.

Sleep: So good! I'm tired ALL.THE.TIME!

What I miss: Nothing yet.

Cravings: Nothing yet.

Symptoms: Tired, nauseous.

Best moment this week: Telling co workers!

6 Weeks

2011-12-01T08:30:00.001-05:00

How Far Along: 6 weeks

Size of baby: Sweet Pea

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +0

Maternity Clothes: Not yet.

Gender: Can't wait to find out!

Movement: Not yet.

Sleep: So good! I'm tired ALL.THE.TIME!

What I miss: Nothing yet.

Cravings: Nothing yet.

Symptoms: Tired, nauseous.

Best moment this week: Finally telling extended family and friends!

Thanksgiving 2011

2011-11-30T09:32:00.000-05:00

Our Thanksgiving was full of family and food!

We traveled sown to Jacksonville on Wednesday.

Poor girl...getting too long for the Pack N Play

We woke up Thursday, did some cooking, playing, parade watching, and got ready to go to Thanksgiving.

Annabelle's favorite spot at Grandma and Granddaddy's

We had the best time at Thanksgiving Lunch. Annabelle had a little playmate, Seth. And they played and played!

Annabelle and Daddy enjoying the hammock :)

Friday, we got up and headed about an hour away to visit Collin's dad, Step Mom, and Grandma Gerry. We had a nice visit and Annabelle loved putting on a show for them :)

When we got back to Grandma and Granddaddy's, I put on Tangled for Annabelle {thinking she would nap}. But, I'm pretty sure everyone BUT Annabelle fell asleep.

Saturday we headed back home. We were sad to leave Jacksonville, but looked forward to being home.

Annabelle and Grandma's roses

Sunday, was the typical: Church, Lunch, and Home Group.

Monday, Collin got the Christmas Tree out, and last night we decorated it. We enjoyed Miracle on 34th street as we hung the ornaments...and only 2 ornaments got broken! ha!

Getting the ornaments JUST right

5 Weeks

2011-11-24T08:30:00.002-05:00

How Far Along: 5 weeks

Size of baby: Apple Seed

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +0
Maternity Clothes: Not yet.
Gender: Can't wait to find out!

Movement: Not yet.

Sleep: So good! I'm tired ALL.THE.TIME!

What I miss: Nothing yet.

Cravings: Nothing yet.

Symptoms: Tired, A little nauseous.

Best moment this week: Telling family! It's been so fun! And Annabelle telling me she has a baby in her belly too :)

Food, Pictures, Bible Study

2011-11-22T15:16:00.000-05:00

Our weekend basically revolved around food! We had 2 Thanksgiving meals to attend, and ate till our bellies were full!

Friday, Annabelle and I had Thanksgiving lunch at my dad's work. She had the best time! My mom, Whitney, and Gracie were also there,

and after lunch we enjoyed a stroll around Target :)
We had a very relaxed night. Just baking and cooking dishes for our Thanksgiving dinner the next day, and getting outfits together for pictures.

Saturday, we woke up early and headed to have our pictures taken. I could not be happier with what I have seen so far!

After pictures, we drove to my parents and had lunch at Serenbe.
We enjoyed a relaxing afternoon and dinner!

Sunday, we had church, lunch, naps, and Home Group.

Watching Toy Story 3!

4 Weeks

2011-11-17T08:30:00.001-05:00

How Far Along: 4 weeks

Size of baby: Poppy Seed

Total Weight Gain/Loss: +0

Maternity Clothes: Not yet.

Gender: Can't wait to find out!

Movement: Not yet.

Sleep: So good! I'm tired ALL.THE.TIME!

What I miss: Nothing yet.

Cravings: Nothing yet.

Symptoms: Tired, A little nauseous.

Best moment this week: Finding out! November 15, 2011, I stopped by Walgreen's and bought 3 digital tests. Came home and immediately tested {without Collin knowing :)}. 3 minutes later, it came up pregnant! I called Collin into the bathroom {he said he thought he did something and I was mad}, and showed him the test...we cried {happy tears}, and was in total shock! This was only our 2nd month to try, and just didn't think it was true :)
I took another test the morning of November 16, 2011. It also came out positive!

Life Update!

2011-11-14T14:07:00.000-05:00

No pictures...just some random happenings:

Halloween was fun...Annabelle did not love her costume, therefore she didn't want to wear it...nor did she really want to go around Trick Or Treating. However, she did like handing out candy.
Potty Training has been kinda on the back burner, we aren't really pushing her...but still encouraging! And last night she FINALLY went #2 on the potty {I'm sure that's exactly what you wanted to know :)}. We are moving in the right direction!
Saturday, November 5, I Co-Hosted a double baby shower. It was a dessert shower, they are my favorite! Dessert, girl talk, and presents! We got a pray over these mommas and the baby boys...so special!
Friday, Annabelle and I spent the day together. She got a haircut, we ran some errands, and grocery shopped. I love taking her with me, and she loves to help me shop :)
Friday night, Collin and I had a date night with our old smallgroup. We ate California Pizza Kitchen at Atlantic Station. While we waited for our table...the girls shopped and the boys hung out at a sports bar. Annabelle spent the night with her nana and pawpaw.
Saturday morning, my aunt came to look at our freezer {that went out the night before}, miraculously it is working again.
We had church directory pictures Saturday afternoon...very interesting.
Annabelle watches WAY too much Dora. Saturday, she needed help with something and she was yelling "Ayúdame!", which is "Help me" in Spanish.
We just finished week 2 of Radical with our Home Group. We have had some great conversations!
Lots going on the next 2 weeks! Family pictures this Saturday, along with Thanksgiving with my family. And we leave next Wednesday for Jacksonville to spend Thanksgiving with Collin's family!

Yo Gabba Gabba YO!

2011-11-01T12:31:00.000-04:00

Let me start with Thursday, because that is when my weekend really started!
Collin and I celebrated our anniversary by going to eat Pappasito's! It was so good! I mean REALLY GOOD! We had fajitas, chip, margaritas...I was stuffed! Everything was so fresh...I watched the girl make our tortillas from our table...that fresh! We walked around Target, got some coffee, and headed to pick up Annabelle. Annabelle had the best time {like always :)} with Uncle, Reese, and Cousin!

Friday, I was doing stuff around the house, when Collin called me and said the school just called him and Annabelle wasn't feeling well. I went to pick her up, and 2 minutes from the house, she got sick :( I was so sad for her! Thankfully, she didn't get sick anymore, but we did end up cancelling our family pictures to be on the safe side. We enjoyed a relaxed night at home, watching what else...Tangled :)

Saturday, we spent the morning around the house. Annabelle was feeling better, but to be on the safe side, we stayed in and watched some Yo Gabba Gabba shows {You know...to get pumped about the show!}. Annabelle laid down for a nap, and when she woke up, we headed to trick or treat at The Mill. She loved getting candy! Saturday was also the BIG Georgia/Florida game. Collin skipped trick or treating {not without hesitation :)}, and headed to some friends house to watch it. We joined afterwards.
And while the boys watched the game, us girls went shopping! We got some good deals at Old Navy!

Sunday, was the day I had been looking forward to! Annabelle and I attended 1st service, then headed home so she could nap. We met our friends, The Anderson's {Derek, Jenn, and Tayler}, then made our way to the show!
Nothing can quite explain what a joy it was to take Annabelle to The Fox Theater to see Yo Gabba Gabba LIVE! I have such wonderful memories going as a little girl with my mom, and couldn't wait to do the same thing with Annabelle. I can't wait to take her again!

Waiting for the show to begin :)

Intermission

BFF

After the show...I promise she loved loved it, although you can't tell by her face.

The show was fun! The girls were uneasy about everything the first half, but the second half was different! They were dancing and singing and loving it!
After the show, we had Varsity for dinner. That was a fun experience too! The girls loved their naked dogs and frosted oranges :)

Silly girls!

It was the PERFECT ending to the weekend!

4 years ago today...

2011-10-27T09:40:00.000-04:00

We put on a dress and a tux...

Were surrounded by friends and loved ones...

Took our vows...

Sealed it with a kiss...

Became Mr and Mrs...

And then we partied....

4 AMAZING years later...Happy Anniversary Collin!

Apples, Apples, and MORE Apples!

2011-10-18T15:55:00.000-04:00

Fall is my absolute favorite time of year! This year I wanted to do some of the more Fall-y activities :)
A couple weeks ago we went to The Pumpkin Patch, I'd like to go on some Nature Walks, but this weekend we went Apple Picking!

Friday night, we had the best night IN! I made spaghetti, we watched movies. It was just perfect!

Saturday, we woke up BRIGHT and EARLY! We met Carson, Laurice, Weston, and Theresa and headed to Ellijay! It wasn't that bad of a drive...of course Annabelle watched Tangled all the way up there :)

First stop was Hillcrest Orchards. We picked Apples, petted farm animals, took a wagon ride, we even ran into our friends The Anderson's!

Jump, Jump, Jump!

Precious Cousins!

Picking Apples :)

Got one!

Carrying our Loot!

Love :)

Petting Farm...right before the goat started eating her shirt :)

After we picked all of our apples, we had lunch at Zaxby's, then headed to the Apple Festival!

We didn't get home until 6:00 that night, and we were wore OUT!

Sunday, we finally hosted our first Home Group! Collin and I are so excited about this! It's something we have wanted to do for about a month now, but everyone has been busy. But Sunday night was a good get to know you night! Can't wait to do it again this Sunday!

Operation: Potty Train...has begun!!

2011-10-13T09:11:00.001-04:00

A little history:
Annabelle is VERY interested in all things potty. She loves to sit on the potty, wipe, flush, and wash hands. She had A LOT of "Good Try's". I would always tell her that if put her tee tee or poo poo in the potty, she would get a prize. I'm not sure how long this went on, but it was a good while.

I never wanted to force her into potty training. Because Annabelle is the kind of child that will do things in her own time, and if I pushed it, we would start to get frustrated and nothing would happen. Remember when I tried to take her paci away?
She only stopped using her paci when SHE was ready, she only stopped taking the bottle because SHE was ready, she only stopped nursing because SHE was ready. And all those things came in a timely manner. I knew she wouldn't always take a bottle, or she wouldn't always want to nurse, etc.
And I always knew that she would tee tee in the potty when she was good and ready.

Day 1: 10/12/11
While Annabelle was running around naked {after her bath}, and she stopped and said "I tee tee", and encouraged her {like I always have} to go sit on the potty. She did and finished tee teeing!
We made the BIGGEST deal out of it! We were clapping, high five-ing, hugging, telling her how proud we were, we called Grammy and Pappy, we called Nana and Pawpaw.
And to finish off our celebration, Annabelle got an M&M. You may not think of that as a good prize, but Annabelle was beside herself getting 1 M&M. So much so, she wanted to go potty again. She succeeded, and got another M&M.

She probably went potty 3 times before we left the house for Bible Study. We stopped at Chick Fil A and got her an ice cream cone {Just as a "We are so proud" prize}.
We got to Bible study, and all of our friends saw my tweet {Huge night at the Ray house...potty training has officially begun!}, and they made a big deal out of it as well. Annabelle was so excited!
She ended up using the potty a couple more time that night {I did have to remind her}.

Looks like I'm going to buy a pack of training pants, and maybe even some panties for our BIG GIRL!

Zoo, Pumpkins, and a Newborn

2011-10-10T15:12:00.000-04:00

Friday, we headed to the zoo! Mom, Annabelle, and I had the best time! Annabelle really loves the zoo, and talks about the animals all the time!

Feeding the birds

Brushing Oreo

Carousel with Grammy

After we left the Zoo, we had lunch at Six Feet Under. Yummy!! Of course, Annabelle fell asleep on the way home,

but I had to run into Hobby Lobby real quick, so Mom stayed in the car. As soon as I closed my door, Annabelle woke up and wanted to go to Target :) and who am I to deny her Target.

After dropping Mom off and grocery shopping, Annabelle and I headed home. We had such a good evening IN! Collin and Annabelle carved and painted their pumpkins, while I cooked dinner for a family that just had a baby :)

Saturday, we slept in and enjoyed a quiet morning, full of painting, play doh, and a tea party :)

For lunch, we decided to get lunch at Chick Fil A, and head to a park near us.

Annabelle and Daddy rooting for the Gators :)

We took the family the dinner and visited for a bit, then had dinner with Chris, Kelly, Carson & Wes.

Sunday, was church, lunch, and naps. We were supposed to start Home Group again this Sunday, but it got cancelled. So we invited Collin's mom over for dinner. It was nice to catch up :)

Pumkpin Patch and A Wedding

2011-10-04T11:24:00.000-04:00

I didn't blog about last weekend, because nothing big happened, but just so I can remember:
Friday, Annabelle's Nana and Pawpaw asked her to come spend the night. So Collin and I had an unexpected night to ourselves. We just had dinner at the house and watched a movie.

Saturday, after I picked Annabelle up and attempted to get her to sleep {Didn't happen}, we headed to Oliver and Atticus' birthday party! It was at a Gymnastics Facility, and the kids had free reign of EVERYTHING! Everyone had a blast!
We had dinner with Collin's Dad and Step mom that night.

Sunday, was church,

I thought she looked so cute in her Jeggings :)

This weekend was jam packed!
Friday I took Annabelle to get her flu shot. And I don't know why I am so prone to ridiculous waiting times at a doctor's office, but Annabelle and I waited for an HOUR to get her shot :(
She was a little fussy, and I felt so bad...but there is no way we are going to deal with the flu this year! If we continue the path we are on right now, it's Collin's turn to get it. I had it at the beginning of 2010 and Annabelle had it just before Christmas 2010.
We had a family date night :) Chick Fil A for dinner and Target!

Saturday, we woke up and headed to Ole McDermitt's Pumpkin Patch! We met Carson, Laurice, and Weston there, and the kids had the best time {and so did we}! There was so much to do: feed and pet farm animals, a little hay maze for the kiddos, a corn maze, slides, hay bales, a corn box, and of course pumpkins! We will definitely be going back next year!
Stole these pictures from Laurice :)

Starting their band :)

Super Fast Slide

Corn Box

Before we left, Annabelle got to pick out her very own pumpkin! She did not want to let go of it! We also go a big pumpkin to carve.

We met Mom and Dad for lunch and to drop Annabelle off while we attended a wedding that night.

Sunday was church, lunch, and naps. Mom met us at church with Annabelle and stayed for service, then we met daddy for lunch. Our afternoon we enjoyed extra long naps and a walk around the neighborhood!

Weekend Recap

2011-09-28T16:09:00.002-04:00

Friday, Annabelle's Nana and Pawpaw asked her to come spend the night. So Collin and I had an unexpected night to ourselves. We just had dinner at the house and watched a movie.

Saturday, after I picked Annabelle up and attempted to get her to sleep {Didn't happen}, we headed to Oliver and Atticus' birthday party! It was at a Gymnastics Facility, and the kids had free reign of EVERYTHING! Everyone had a blast!
We had dinner with Collin's Dad and Step mom that night.

Sunday, was church,

I thought she looked so cute in her Jeggings :)

We had dinner and a movie that night. Annabelle has been OBSESSED with Tangled lately, so we watched that. And her favorite part is the credits...she loves to dance to the music :)

Weekend at Gammy & Pappy's

2011-09-20T12:29:00.000-04:00

Annabelle spent the weekend with her Gammy and Pappy.
Collin and I wanted to go on a date Friday, and then decided to have a marathon cleaning day on Saturday.
Nothing much more than that...except missing our girl.

Pictures from their weekend {All pictures send to me from mom's phone}:

At dinner with Pappy

Ice Cream at 9:30 with Eow

New friend...George!

Napping

She had such a good time with her grandparents...but we sure were glad to have her home! Mom and Dad also had Gracie Saturday night. Mom said Annabelle could not stop kissing her in Babies R Us.
Sunday night, we had a family dinner at our house. It was very relaxed and nothing fancy.

On a Random Note:
Wednesday nights we have been attending a Bible Study with some friends. The kids do so well while we are talking! Laurice brings a DVD player and we set them up with movies and snacks.
I got this cute picture of them watching {Annabelle's FAVORITE movie} Tangled last Wednesday :)

Gold Rush Festival 2011

2011-09-13T16:05:00.002-04:00

Our weekend was packed full of fun things!

Friday, Annabelle and I headed up to the high school I graduated from to drop of my old cheer leading uniform. I was so excited for some of my teachers and principal to meet Annabelle!
After, we did a little shopping at Target, had lunch with Collin, and picked up some things at Old Navy.
I love having a busy morning, because it just wears Annabelle out! She ended up falling asleep on the way home, and napping for 3 hours!!

Friday night, Collin went to a concert with Carson...so Annabelle and I met some friends for Mexican. Then headed to Old Navy and Target...again :)

Saturday was Villa Rica's Gold Rush Festival! We have taken Annabelle and Weston every year since they have been born! They have grown some since last year :(

Gammy & Annabelle

3rd Gold Rush Festival!

After the parade, we browsed the booths then had lunch at Olive Tree.

Dora = 2 HAPPY toddlers!

We came home to relax, before heading back out for a little date night. We dropped Annabelle off at a Parent's Night Out that some ladies at our church was offering that night. They said Annabelle had a good time!

Sunday was church, lunch, and naps. Annabelle napped, while I worked out and Collin changed the oil in our cars. We had a very laid back evening!

Pretty sure every sticker she had was on this piece of paper :)

Labor Day Weekend 2011

2011-09-07T09:15:00.000-04:00

We headed down to Jacksonville for Labor Day Weekend this year, to visit Collin's grandparents.

We left super early Friday morning

Putting stickers on Mommy's hand was the game of the day

and pulled in around 1:00. Once we got there, we visited for the rest of the day.

A Tea party with Granddaddy :)

Saturday Morning, we lounged around the house...

Cartoons with Granddaddy

Napping with Daddy

Then we headed to lunch at Five Guys. Came back home, and di some more lounging and playing and visiting. That night we had dinner with Uncle Mike and Aunt Kathy.

Bedtime Story with Grandma

Sunday morning, we packed up and headed to church. After Sunday School, we got back on the road. We had some pretty bad weather on our trip home. Thankfully, we stopped at the Outlet Mall :)

M&M Face=Happy Girl!

Once we got back into town, we decided to just go ahead and eat before we got home. We agreed on Mexican. When we pulled into the parking lot, I told Collin that some of the cars looks like our friend's. He thought I was being silly. And while getting Annabelle out, she said "I see Cousin! I see Reese! I see Uncle!". As soon as we walked in, there were our friends eating :) We talked for a bit, and then headed to hang out for a bit. We didn't get home until 10:00!

Monday, was so rainy. I took Annabelle to Air Jump to jump with Wes and Miles. I then decided it would be a good idea to take Annabelle to Chick Fil A to eat lunch while she was still awake. And as soon as I was getting her out of the car, the bottom fell out! We were soaked! We ate and then on our way out, a Chick Fil A employee grabbed 2 BIG umbrellas and walked us out to the car. Talk about GREAT customer service!

We came home for naps. Collin was really wanting to go to REI for their clearance sale, so after Annabelle woke up we headed to Kennesaw with Carson, Laurice, and Weston. REI is like Target for boys, they could browse for HOURS! I was done within 10 minutes of being there. The kids loved playing in the tents :)

We had Chili's for dinner...yummo! And before we left, I wanted to look through Target.

The weather is rainy and cool! Fall is just around the corner!

Shopping, Haircuts, and Knoxville

2011-08-29T09:43:00.000-04:00

Collin was asked to play a Christian Music Festival in Knoxville this weekend, so between practices, traveling and actually playing...it was mostly just Annabelle and I this weekend.

Friday, I had a pretty busy day. I did some shopping with my friend Brittany for the Women's Retreat, ran to the grocery store, made dinner for a family that recently had a baby, and a few odds and end stuff at home.

Saturday, Collin left early to head to Knoxville. I took Annabelle to Snip-Its for a trim. She hasn't had a haircut since last year, and I just got about half an inch off, but it looks so much better!

It was so cute in there! The salon had movies playing, activities for the kids to keep them occupied while waiting, and Annabelle did so well in the chair...because she was watching a show :)
After the stylist was done cutting, Annabelle got sparkles in her hair and a sucker. And she even got to put a piece of her hair and her magic ticket in the prize machine and got a bunny key chain. And that thing didn't leave our sight for the rest of the day! A very good experience!

I promised Annabelle before her haircut, that if she was super good while she was getting her trim...that we would have nuggets {Chick Fil A} for lunch. So we headed to the mall, first to do a little shopping then lunch at Chick Fil A. While in Gymboree, we ran into Jenn and Tayler {Jenn and her husband Derek were in our smallgroup and Tayler is a few months younger than Annabelle}. Annabelle and Tayler are such sweet friends!

We did a little shopping with them, and then ended up having lunch with them too!

After shopping at the mall, we headed home. Annabelle was already asleep before I got on I20 :)
I got in a workout while she napped, and when she woke up she asked to go to Target...ha! She LOVES Target.
We headed to Carrollton to Target, to see if they had some things we wanted for our Women's Retreat. Of course, I can't go to Target without browsing the whole store :)

We finished of the night with Chick Fil A for dinner...we're just a little obsessed with Chick Fil A :)

Sunday, we had church, lunch, and naps...and finsihed off the weekend grilling out with friends!

Annabelle @ 2.5 Years

2011-08-23T13:31:00.001-04:00

Today Annabelle is 2.5 years old! I can hardly believe she'll be 3 soon!

Here is what Annabelle is up to:

She is VERY interested in the potty. She loves to go through the motions of going to the potty, but we have yet to witness her use the potty. I've heard she will do it every now and then at school...but, I've got some M&M's just waiting on her :)
Talks in complete sentences. She communicates very well with us. Makes life a little bit easier. She does still talk a little be a Jibber Jabber, and most of the time we have to translate for her...but she gets her point across :)
Loves to sing! And she knows the words to most kid songs:

Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star
Row, Row, Row Your Boat
ABC's
Jesus Loves Me
Any song from Dora :)

Love to eat! Some of her Favs:

Chicken, Hot Dogs, Chick Fil A nuggets
Broccoli, Corn
Strawberries, Watermelon, Applesauce
Baked/Mashed Potatoes, Yellow Rice
Cheese, Yogurt, Chocolate Milk
Mexican, Chick Fil A

Loves to baby anybody/anything that will let her. Weston, Gracie, Lotion Bottles...
Just learned how to open doors...time to do some Toddler-Proofing.
Is very possessive over her things. Toys, Food, Mommy, Daddy. We're working on sharing :)
Sleeps like a champ!

Bedtime: 8p-7:30ish (6:15 on weekdays)
Naps: Usually down between 12 and 2, and sleeps for 2 hours.

Wears size 4 diaper, wears 2T clothing, and a size 8 shoe.

Weekend Review

2011-08-22T13:26:00.000-04:00

Last weekend, we didn't do a lot. We had a birthday party and family dinner...and that's about it.
Something I didn't mention in my last post, Last Friday when i went to "visit" Whitney and Gracie...we actually had a surprise planned for mom. Mom got the girls really cute, matching outfits and wanted their pictures taken in them. Well, without mom knowing, one of our friend's did a photo shoot with the girls. We surprised her Sunday at our family dinner.

This weekend, we had lots of fun things...planned and unplanned :)

Friday I picked Annabelle up from school early, and we headed to Target to do some shopping for our upcoming Women's Retreat at church. We met Brittany and her boys Rhett and Sawyer. Annabelle LOVES baby Sawyer!

After, we headed to Brittany's for our monthly smallgroup gathering. Once I got there, I realized I left my phone at Kroger.

We had the best time Friday night! Brittany had an inflatable water slide for the kids. It took a bit for Annabelle to warm up, but she ended up loving it!

After we left the gathering...we dropped Annabelle off at Nana's.

Saturday, we spent the entire day at White Water! We went with 2 other couples and had the best time!!

We picked up Annabelle around 6 and had dinner at Waffle House. Annabelle loves dipping Waffles in syrup!

Funny Story: When Annabelle is dipping something (e.g. Waffles into syrup, Fries into ketchup, etc), she always says "Dip, Dip, Dip"...just like her Reese :)

Sunday, was super busy! We had church, lunch, and then headed to the hospital to visit our friends that had a baby on Saturday! We were able to visit with the parents, but the baby was in the NICU while we were there. She's ok! And going home today!

Annabelle skipped her nap, but you wouldn't have been able to even tell she did! She was so sweet!

We had Taco movie night last night! Tangled came on Netflix recently, so we enjoyed a relaxing evening, after a BUSY/FUN weekend!!

Our Weekend in Pictures

2011-08-08T10:26:00.001-04:00

We did a whole bunch of nothing...so what better to share, than pictures of a whole bunch of nothing.

Friday:

Breakfast at Chick Fil A

Loving on baby...she was sad

Some sweet Cousin loving

Chubby Cheeks

Gammy and her girls at lunch

A cat nap before Preston's Welcome home party

Chef Annabelle

More Cousin loving...Cousins on the move

Saturday:

3 hour nap...and didn't move the entire time :)

Annabelle drew Daddy

Sunday:

Spaghetti for dinner

Babies in time out

Sunflower Pictures

2011-08-03T08:30:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I received a special package! The photographer that took Annabelle's Sunflower Pictures sent me the CD with the images! I am in LOVE!

Enjoy!

What Annabelle said today!

2011-08-02T09:28:00.000-04:00

Sunday, Annabelle wanted to play outside the whole time we were at my Aunt's. It was just too hot, so everyone was sweet enough to take turns going outside with her.
Well, one time she came in and said "Woo! It's hot out 'dere!"

Family Galore!

2011-08-01T10:25:00.000-04:00

It's rare that we see all 3 sets of Grandparents in one weekend, but somehow it happened this weekend.

Of course my weekend started on Friday :)
I love that I have an extra day! Sometimes I send Annabelle to school, and sometimes we have fun things planned. This Friday, I had a bunch of errands to run, and {let's be honest} it's just easier without a {almost} 2.5 year old in tow. One thing that I also love about be off on Friday's is, most of the time I get to meet Collin for lunch :)
We had dinner with Chris and Kelly. We don't get to see them often, so this was a treat! And Outback wasn't too bad either! Annabelle just loves them, and it makes me smile to know how many people love our Annabelle. After dinner, we headed to the mall to browse Border's and for some Frozen Yogurt...yum!

Saturday morning, I had breakfast with the girls! I have been friends with these girls since high school, and no matter how long it's been since we saw each other last...it's as if we haven't been apart!
I got home just in time, to turn around and go meet Collin's dad and step mom for lunch at Chick Fil A.
I wish I would have gotten a picture of Annabelle and Weston sitting in chairs eating their lunch...they thought they were big kids, and couldn't stop laughing and smiling.

Sunday, after church we had lunch with Collin's mom and step dad...then it was home for a {short} nap.
My aunt's had a family dinner Sunday night. It was some good comfort food! Annabelle just loves mommying Gracie and getting to play with her Uncle!

Funny Story about this Picture:

We were trying to get Gracie's attention, and waving our hands...guess who else wanted to wave her hand...
:)

Weekend Recap

2011-07-25T15:57:00.001-04:00

Friday: We attended sweet Evie's 2nd Birthday party! It was a pool party, which is always fun!
Saturday Afternoon: A whole bunch of nothing! Annabelle and I met my parents for lunch, while Collin did some yard work and went for a trail ride. After lunch, we browsed Wal-mart. Annabelle fell asleep on the way home, and while she continued her nap I got in a workout. And when she woke up, we went for a stroll around the neighborhood. when we got back, Collin was finishing up his workout, and of course, Annabelle had to join in :)

Father/Daughter Push Ups

Saturday Night: We had breakfast for dinner, and movie night. Seems boring, but it was just what we needed!
Sunday Morning: I woke up to this in my bed :)

Sunday Afternoon: Lunch, Naps for Collin and Annabelle. I met my old teacher from Kway to get some tickets for concert Collin is going to. Annabelle was in a mode ALL afternoon! Needless to say, she was ready for her 8:00 bedtime!

Sneak Peek

2011-07-19T08:41:00.001-04:00

Sunday we did a mini photoshoot with our friend Desi in a sunflower field. Annabelle loved it for MAYBE 5 minutes, then was D-O-N-E! I knew Desi got some good pictures, and couldn't be happier with the sneak peek she posted on Facebook!

ENJOY!

Stone Mountain, Shopping & Sunflowers

2011-07-18T12:36:00.000-04:00

Once a month we meet with our old smallgroup for First Friday. This is just a chance for us to get together (with or without kiddos) to catch up. I always look forward to our time together!
This past Friday Carson and Laurice planned a family outing to Stone Mountain to see the Laser Show! We haven't been in awhile, and this was Annabelle's first time! We met at Moe's and headed towards the mountain. Funny Story: We had been talking Stone Mountain up to Annabelle the whole way up there. She was getting pretty excited! Well we turned a curve and saw it, and we pointed it out to Annabelle and she said "Oh! Stone Mountain! It's so cute!"
We had the best time! I brought bubbles to keep to kids occupied before the show started. It was a big hit! I was afraid of what Annabelle would think of the show and fireworks...and to my surprise she sat a watched the whole thing! However, she did not like the ending...a bunch of fireworks going off.

before we left...with her new monkey cup :)

We slept in Saturday, since we stayed out late the night before. I was on a mission to find some Navy Leggings and new tennis shoes...so off to Douglasville we went. Annabelle was a typical 2 year old...hiding in the clothes and running off in the opposite direction. I found my leggings, but no luck in the shoe department.
Annabelle fell asleep on the way home, and we stopped by Carson and Laurice's to check out their Yard Sale. By the time we got home, Annabelle was awake from her hour nap. I tried to get her to lay down, but no such luck. So we enjoyed being outside:

Eating Fudgesicles,

Helping Daddy wash his bike, and

Playing with the water hose!

We grilled out and watched Toy Story 3, and the had Sonic for dessert :)

Waiting for our Ice Cream

Sunday, after services we had a church wide cookout...hot dogs, desserts, and baptisms.
After Annabelle got up from her nap, we picked Desi up and headed to do a mini photoshoot in a sunflower field! Annabelle loved them for about 5 mintues, but was done after that. I can't wait to see what Desi got!

Sneek Peak from Collin's phone

Storms & Sprinkles

2011-07-11T13:16:00.000-04:00

I was looking forward to this weekend! Lots of fun stuff, but very relaxing!

Friday night, my parents, sister-in-law, and niece came over for dinner. Gracie is getting SO BIG! Annabelle loved making her laugh by falling down :) Of course, Annabelle wanted to hold her and feed her and burp her...she's love her some Gracie!

After dinner, a storm came thru and our power ended up going out. We stayed at the house for a little bit, then decided to go to Chick Fil A for ice cream!

Saturday, Collin got up WAY early and cut grass, then took Annabelle to visit with her Nana and Pawpaw for the afternoon (Collin had some chores he wanted to finish up and I was getting ready for a Sprinkle that I co hosted Saturday night). He ended up helping his Step-dad with something, and I headed to the grocery store, and home to prepare for the shower.

I co hosted a dessert diaper shower for my friend Brittany. She is due with her 2nd little boy in 2 weeks (if not sooner!). We had the best time! I hate that I don't have any pictures! But the other hostess (with MUCH better cameras than my phone), should be posting their pictures soon :)

Collin and Annabelle had a Daddy/Daughter date night at Zaxby's and home for some Dora! Collin enjoys those special times with Annabelle.

Sunday was church, lunch, and naps. After naps we headed to go swimming at Laurice's brother's neighborhood. Annabelle had a blast swimming with cousin and Maddie! We left just before a another storm blew thru.

This morning Annabelle was extra excited to go to school! Today is Weston's first day! I heard he had a good drop off and can't wait to hear how the rest of the day went!

Memory

2011-07-08T09:21:00.000-04:00

Just when I think Annabelle forgets about something...her memory proves me wrong!

MONTHS and MONTHS ago, a little boy at school bit Annabelle (like, he bit her so hard it left a mark). She STILL talks about it to this day! No really, she mentioned it again this morning :)
We have a rule, no standing in chairs :), and when Annabelle broke this rule the first time (which was a while ago) she got a spanking. Now if she starts to stand up in a chair, she'll say "No stand Annabelle, Wanna a spankin?"
Whenever we pass Chick Fil A, she'll say "I want nuggets! Nuggets! Nuggets! Nuggets!"
Also, when at Chick Fil A we always return the toy for ice cream. And if Annabelle sees the toy, she won't eat her food. Therefore I have to hide it. Well, we kept one toy and when she saw it she said "I want Ice Cream!"

July 4th Weekend!

2011-07-05T13:41:00.000-04:00

Before I begin to recap our wonderful July 4th weekend. I wanted to remember a few things about the weekend before. I never got a chance to blog about it, because nothing really happened...but Annabelle did some funny things I always want to remember :)

Saturday, June 26th, Annabelle and I went shopping with my mom. We had the best time! Annabelle was so sweet and well behaved. We were in Kohl's and Mom and I were trying on some things, we turn around and Annabelle has taken off her outfit and wanted to try on a dress :) By the time we were done is was 1:30 and I knew Annabelle was tired.

This was my view not 2 minutes into the car ride

Sunday, we got up and Annabelle had to have her shades and monkey first thing.

That night we headed to First Baptist Carrollton to hear Debbie and Carson sing and ate Mexican after.

It had rained during the performances, so after we ate there were some awesome puddles for the kiddos to jump in.

Onto 4th of July Weekend!!
We headed down to Panama City Beach for 4th of July weekend! Our friend Davis' parents (Van and Terri) have the CUTEST house on the west end. We left Thursday after the boys got off work, and got there after 10. Annabelle did amazing riding!

All thanks to Dora, Color Wonder, and Goldfish :)

Friday, we got up had breakfast

and headed to the beach!

Collin and Davis buried her legs

When we came up for lunch, Annabelle laid down for a nap. Terri sent me to the beach, and when Annabelle woke up an hour later the 2 of them played around the house.
It was a real vacation for me! Terri wouldn't let me help cook or clean and when Annabelle was sleeping, she sent me to the beach. Ha!
Terri cooked ribs for dinner and we enjoyed a relaxed evening.

Annabelle on one of the MANY walks she took with Van and Terri

Saturday, while at the beach Annabelle got super tired.

We sat like this for a good hour!...but I could have lasted for days! I don't get snuggles like this anymore.

Terri cooked hot dogs for lunch, and instead of going back to the beach...Annabelle and I headed to Pier Park for some shopping.

People Watching and Ice Cream

We got home just as the boys were getting in from the beach, and we all headed out for dinner.

Sunday morning was rough for Miss Annabelle, nothing seemed to be going her way :( She laid down for a super early nap and slept for a good 2.5 hours! While she was napping, I was sent to the beach, and we we came up for lunch she was just waking up. We enjoyed the rest of the day at the beach!

And grilled out the night.

Monday, we woke up early and made our way home :( I was so sad to leave!

Some Highlights:

Annabelle kept saying Ocean with a "t" sound at the end. "O Ceant"...is it bad that I couldn't stop laughing...?
Annabelle LOVED the ocean! She did not want to get out. Her favorite thing to do was to be in her float.
She also loved the sand! She dug holes and attempted top build a sand castle :)
She loved to search for sea shells!
Annabelle was the sweetest the whole weekend! Except for her minor meltdown on Sunday...I blame lack of sleep :)

Father's Day Weekend

2011-06-23T15:45:00.000-04:00

A lot going on, nothing exciting...just work, work, work! We put on our Annual Georgia Engineers Summer Conference. I got the The Ritz Sunday and got back yesterday. Collin and Annabelle didn't join me for the entire Conference, but did make the drive for the Tuesday night dinner. I was so happy to see them! Annabelle spent the night with me at the Ritz, while Collin drove back home that night.

We had the BIG king size bed...

And this is how we slept :)

Our Father's Day weekend was very low key! Annabelle stayed with my parents Friday night and went to the aquarium Saturday.

Annabelle and Pappy at the book store

Full bed :)

Collin and I had a mini date night Friday night, Chinese Take Out and The Office...it was perfect!
We also got the have breakfast together Saturday morning and went grocery shopping all by ourselves!

Mom and Dad dropped Annabelle off and stayed for dinner.

Daddy's hamburger

Looking forward to a 3 day weekend, and the beach 1 week from today!!

Busy Weekend!

2011-06-14T09:33:00.000-04:00

We had a very busy, very fun weekend!!

It started Thursday when Annabelle and I visited my coworker who recently had a sweet baby girl, Allie. Allie has an older brother, Nolan...and He and Annabelle had a great time playing while I held sweet Allie and caught up with Alicia. At one point Nolan and Annabelle got really quiet, and they weren't in his room. After further investigation we found this :

Crazy kids!

They had a good time playing! Annabelle immediately fell asleep, and I got in a workout and a shower. Collin was off riding bikes with some friends, so Annabelle and I had a girls night! We had spaghetti for dinner and she wanted to eat in her highchair (she normally sits at the table with us, in her booster seat).

2 years old

Can't believe how big she has gotten!

6 months old

Friday night we had a get together with our old small group. The Anderson's had us over for pizza and water fun!

Sweet kiddos :)

Saturday we had a busy morning. We had breakfast at Chick Fil A (and ended up seeing the Anderson's there), Collin took Annabelle with him to his mom's, while I did a little Father's Day shopping and grocery shopping.
We had Laney and Kaitlyn's 3rd birthday party that night. It was a pool party, and was so much fun! Annabelle is loving the pool lately!!
After the party, we had Mexican with some friends!

Annabelle and Tayler=BFF

Sunday, Annabelle and I went to first service, and home for lunch and naps before we left for Hannah's baby shower!

On another note:

Have I mentioned how much I love these 2?!

Weekend Recap

2011-06-07T09:04:00.000-04:00

Friday night, we were suppose to hang out with our old smallgroup...but plans got cancelled. Instead, we headed to the swimming pool! We got there just after 5 and it was just us and Davis for a bit. And Annabelle didn't want ANYTHING to do with the pool...she didn't even want us in the pool. But once Weston got there and he was playing in the water, Annabelle starting warming up to the idea, and 20 minutes later she was jumping in, going under water, and floating around. We didn't leave until 10:00!

Saturday, Collin helped some friends move. Annabelle and I went to the grocery store and played around the house. She spent the night with her Nana and Pawpaw that night while Collin and I went on a date.
Sunday, we met Debbie for lunch to pick up Annabelle, then home for naps. We had dinner with my family for my dad's birthday and Father's Day. We had the best time!

Memorial Day Weekend 2011

2011-05-31T12:18:00.000-04:00

I was so glad to have a 4 day Holiday weekend! Nothing like do a whole bunch of nothing and last minute fun stuff!

Friday was our sweet nephew's 2nd birthday! Since I was off, I asked Laurice if he could hang out with me and Annabelle. We did a lot of cousin play time that morning.

Playing games on the iPod...Wes turned as I was taking the picture.

Wrestling

They are the sweetest cousins :)

We met Laurice for lunch and played on the playground for playtime. They crashed on the way home :)
That night Collin's dad and Step mom arrived from Savannah, we stayed up a little bit talking with them.

Saturday morning, we had breakfast and Annabelle enjoyed some playtime with Marshall and Joan.

We had a lazy morning,

and after Annabelle got up from her nap we got ready for Weston's Birthday party!

Rockin a Side Pony :)

Weston's party was so perfect! It was a little hot getting everything ready, but by 6 the temperature was just perfect! The kiddos had fun playing in the sandbox, on the swing set, and eating cake

Sandy hands and cake=YUM!

The kids partied late, but did not go to sleep without washing off the cake and sand.

It doesn't get much better than this!

Sunday was the usual (Church, Lunch, and Naps), except we took extra long naps!...almost 3 hours! While we were eating dinner, Laurice sent me a text asking if I wanted to got see Bridesmaids in about hour. I am so thankful for my husband! He didn't hesitate when he told me I should go, and I did. It was a funny movie and I'm so glad I went!

Monday, We slept in and Collin cooked us breakfast :)
He also blew up Annabelle's pool Sunday night, so we played for the longest time outside!

We ate lunch at Chick Fil A, and came home for naps. My brother called me and invited us over for dinner. We had the best time! We haven't seen Gracie in a while, boy has she grown. She is the sweetest niece.
We made a pit stop by Collin's Mom and Step Dad's to drop something off, and ended up staying for an hour. Annabelle just loves her grandparents!

With the crazy evening we had, Annabelle did not get into bed until 10:30, and lets just say this morning wasn't the smoothest :)

Weekend Recap

2011-05-23T13:31:00.000-04:00

Nothing to exciting happened this weekend.
We had a cookout with friends Friday night, went to the park Saturday afternoon, washed cars, church, lunch, and Birthday dinner at my aunt's.
Exciting, no?

Aurora and Annabelle at the Cookout Friday night :)

Annabelle and Cousin watching Dora at lunch Sunday

We are very excited about the weekend coming up! Weston is turning 2! and his party is on Saturday!
We love that kiddo so much, and love watching him grow up!
Annabelle is so lucky to have a cousin:
1) so close in age,
2) that she gets to see often, and
3) who is amazingly awesome!

Weekend Recap

2011-05-17T10:52:00.000-04:00

Friday, we had planned to go to dinner, then I would go grocery shopping by myself (A certain 2 year old gets a little antsy). But I got a call from our friends Chris and Kelly asking us to dinner. So I went shopping, home to drop off the groceries, then met them for Mexican. Annabelle LOVES Chris and Kelly!
Saturday Morning, We were suppose to have a get together with our Old Smallgroup Saturday, but the weather looked like it was going to be nasty. Wouldn't you know, Saturday turned out half way decent. We instead ran a few errands. We ended up at the mall, had lunch, then played at the indoor kids area. The fair was at the mall, so we took Annabelle to ride the train and carousel. She loved it, and did not want to leave :(

Daddy and Annabelle on the Train

Momma and Annabelle on the Carousel

Saturday Night was a whole bunch of nothing!

Eating a Popsicle with her decorated Popsicle holder from Aunt Terry

Sunday was Church, Lunch, and naps! Collin went fishing, so it was just me and Annabelle. I was hoping to go outside and play, but it was too cold and looked like it was going to rain any minute.

I am LOVING these non busy weekends! Hopefully soon we'll get our new playground!

Mother's Day 2011

2011-05-09T11:37:00.001-04:00

We had a great weekend! Even though I had two sickies in the house, there wasn't a lot of whining...and no time outs! A Mother's Day Miracle :)

Friday night, we attended Preston's going away party! He is being sworn in to the Marines today.
We had a good time hanging out with friends! The boys played Horse Shoes, and Bocce Ball, while the girls talked and the babies played. Annabelle fell no less than 3 times while we were there, but got some pretty cool Garfield band aids :)

Saturday, Collin got up and went with a group from church to Alabama, to help with the clean up from the Tornadoes. Annabelle and I went grocery shopping and napped.

Poor Girl :( Not feeling good at all!

I planned for us to go to the park, but She wasn't feeling it...poor girl, her allergies were bothering her bad and she didn't even have a voice :(

Sunday, I woke up to the prettiest necklace for Mother's Day!

L-R: A (Annabelle), E (Erin), C (Collin)

It was the perfect Mother's Day gift!

Me and my sweet girl!

It is something I will wear every day, and cherish! And it has room for more charms...WAY down the road :)

We went to church, then had lunch with Carson, Laurice, and Weston. We are so blessed to have family that we are so close with! And cousins that love each other! So blessed!
We came home for naps, but Collin and I have been playing Words with Friends...and it was an intense game...so there was no nap! The best part...I won!

Mom and Dad came over for dinner, Chicken Chili (YUM!) and Hershey Pie (Double YUM!).
We had the best time, playing, walking, and picking flowers :)

While walking, Annabelle busted is twice before getting back to the house :( Poor girl...can't catch a break! She had double boo boo's and both knees. We ended the night with a bath and some Gabba :)

When I dropped Annabelle off at school this morning, her teacher gave me some artwork Annabelle has done...and I love hanging her pictures up in my office :)

VACATION!

2011-05-04T08:30:00.002-04:00

While Collin was gone, I was able to take a whole week of vacation from work! It was so much easier, because Collin and I are such a team with Annabelle in the mornings (He'll usually get her up, and let her wake up, then get her dressed...and then I'll fix her hair and take her to school). So the mornings that Collin isn't there, I have to wake up earlier and it's a struggle to leave the house on time and make the bus.
Another reason I wanted to take the week off, was to spend time with my grandmother!

This was our week! (And a little of Collin's)
Monday:
Annabelle spent the night with my parents Sunday night so I didn't have to wake her up to drop Collin off.
We met the team at the Wal-Mart in VR at 6:30. After we said our good byes, I went back home to do some cleaning.
Collin's flight left about 10:30. Bless his heart, he picked up a stomach bug and got sick on the plane. His stomach was upset before we left the house, but we thought it was just nerves.

After I got done cleaning, I packed up my car and headed to my parents. We had a good afternoon, just hanging out.

Singing with GG

Tuesday:
Collin had called Monday night, and I was so sad, because 1) I didn't get to talk to him, and 2) He said he was sick :(
We got up and tagged along with mom to her hair appointment. Right next door there was an antique store, and while grandma browsed...Annabelle and I hit the swing out front.
We had lunch with Whitney and Gracie at O'Charleys, and shopped at Ashley Park. Annabelle fell asleep right before we were getting in the car to go to Target. So I decided we would walk. About that time, Mom started feeling sick, so after Target we went to BJ's and then home.
I talked to Collin! They had made it to the village and he was feeling much better!

Wednesday:
Whitney started feeling sick, so Annabelle and I went to help her with Gracie.

"I hold Gacie!"

I got brave and decided to get the girls out of the house and go to Monkey Joe's and Barnes and Noble. They were so good! Storm clouds started rolling in, so I picked up dinner and headed back to Whitney's.

We got some bad weather that night! As we were watching the news, the satellite went out...so we decided to just go to sleep. Not 2 seconds later, Whitney started getting calls that there was rotation just down the road from her. Out of bed, throwing couch cushions in the stairwell, put Gracie in her carseat, scooped up Annabelle and waited. We never heard anything, and Praise the Lord we were just fine!

Thursday:

Annabelle and I headed to the zoo with mom, grandma, and Eow (the birthday girl!). We had such a good time!

Panda Bear

After seeing the Panda Bear's, Annabelle saw some kids getting Panda stamps on their hands...and of course we all got stamped...on both hands :)

We saved the train and carousel for the end. And while Annabelle and I were on it, Eow started getting sick. I made the decision then, that Annabelle and I would be going home that night (we were staying until Friday).

I talked to Collin that afternoon, he was making sure we were alright...i guess between the storms and the stomach virus...he was worried about us :)

We had dinner with Mom and Grandma that night.

Friday:

I woke up SUPER early to watch the Royal Wedding...and I don't regret it one bit! I am sad that I fell asleep towards the end, but woke up in time to see them walk out. I wish Annabelle would have been a little bit older and she could have watched it with me.

Annabelle and I picked Laurice and Weston up and headed to Chick Fil A Corporate to have lunch with Kelly! It was super nice! She showed us around, and we even went into Truett's office!

After dropping Laurice and Weston off, I tried to get Annabelle to lay down, but that wasn't going to happen. So instead we went to Babies R Us and then to the grocery store. I ordered us pizza, and after Annabelle went to bed, I watched a movie.

Collin and the team hiked out this day.

Saturday:

We had a very low key morning, we played, watched a movie, and Annabelle took a nap. After she woke up we headed to Newnan to help get ready for Eow's Surprise Party!! I think she was really surprised!

We stayed for a little bit, before leaving to go to the airport to pick Collin up!! I was so excited and had butterflies all day! We were so excited to see him and hug him! Annabelle was all about her daddy!

We were going to have dinner with some of the team, but everywhere was busy...and we ended up eating at Chick Fil A.

Sunday:

Church, lunch, naps, and a walk around the neighborhood. It was so pretty! And we just enjoyed time with our little family!

Easter 2011

2011-05-03T09:00:00.000-04:00

Our Easter weekend was so beautiful and filled with Friends, Family, Food, and celebrating our risen Lord!

Friday, Annabelle had an Easter party at school. She was pumped to take brownies for her friends! Collin was off Friday and he had a few errands to run before leaving Monday, and I had a hair appointment. We met up for a lunch date. It was so nice! That night we had dinner with my parents and Grandma from Washington!

Saturday, we had an Easter Egg Hunt with our smallgroup. The kiddos were ADORABLE! We had Easter with Collin's family Saturday night, more food and another Easter Egg Hunt.

Sunday, we got up, dressed, and headed to church for worship! I was so excited my parents, Grandma, and aunt joined us! We had yet another Easter Egg Hunt and more food! After dinner, Collin and I left (Annabelle spent the night with my parents), because he had some last minute things to pack.

Up next: Our week without Collin! and a little about his trip!

School Pictures: Spring 2011

2011-04-20T11:16:00.000-04:00

Annabelle had School Pictures last Thursday...and wouldn't you know, she got scratched on her face Wednesday. Oh well :) It will be a great memory! Sorry for the picture quality...I scanned them off the proofs. I'm ordering a ton of prints of the first 3 pictures today to give out :)

Weekend Recap

2011-04-20T10:23:00.001-04:00

We have been busy this past weekend and couple of days. I wanted to make sure I blogged about our weekend...because it was probably the best weekend we have had in awhile!

Friday night we had a get together with our old smallgroup. It was suppose to be an outside cookout while watching the Braves play, but turned into pure madness! There were 8 couples (16 adults) and 7 kids (ages 1-3). The kids get along so well! But they were couped up, and needed to run (and SCREAM) around the house :) They were so sweet, just very loud!

Annabelle and Jackson in their jammies, sharing Goldfish :)

Saturday morning, we met Carson, Laurice, and Wes for breakfast. After Collin went grocery shopping, while we hit a consignment sale. It was the last day of the sale, but we found some good stuff (like a Fraggle Rock DVD!...anyone more excited than me?!...). Then we headed to Air Jump! Laurice and I were so excited, we just knew the kids would love it! But after shoving them in the Tweety Bird bounce, we quickly realized that they wanted nothing to do with it :( Our friend Gina got there with Miles (he's a couple of days older than Annabelle), and Miles was a pro, and finally the kids were jumping, climbing, and sliding! It was a hit after all!

Just one of the videos I took Saturday :)

Annabelle, Miles, and Weston
Love hanging out with these Boys!

After we left Air Jump, Annabelle and I went home and CRASHED! We jumped for 1.5 hours, and boy were we tried! After we woke up, Weston got to come play with us while his momma and daddy went to a Braves game! We had the best time! We played inside for a bit, then went outside to walk/run around and decorate the driveway with sidewalk chalk, ate dinner, had baths, and watched a movie till they both passed out.

Love these babies!

Sunday, Annabelle and I went to first service, then headed to Newnan for an Easter Egg hunt! We stopped by my Sister-In-Law's so Annabelle could nap, and I ended up getting to love on Gracie!

Sweet girl! Fell asleep while drinking her bottle :)

We arrived late to the Easter Egg Hunt, but Annabelle didn't leave empty handed...kids just kept bringing her eggs :) We stayed for a little bit and talked with Eow.

Love these girls!

We made a pit stop by Gammy and Pappy's on the way home.
Sunday night, Gary and Vicki had everyone over for burgers. We love hanging out with everyone, and of course Annabelle loves to see her boys :)

Getting ready for a busy weekend, full of Easter festivities! My Grandmother from Washington is coming tomorrow! And getting Collin ready to leave for Honduras on Monday.
Not sure if I have really talked about it, but Collin is going to Honduras with Hike with Hope, to take food, water, and love on the people in Delicias...all in the name of JESUS! I am so proud and crazy excited for Collin! It's a fairly short trip...he'll be back the following Saturday, but we will miss him like crazy!
Join me in praying for the team!

Operation: No Paci...Take 2

2011-04-12T08:00:00.012-04:00

We have been Paci Free for a whole month!!
Although Annabelle has asked for a Paci, she doesn't really seem to miss it!

Not sure why she did better the second time, but we'll take it!

Here's a look back at our Operation: No Paci Journey

Next up:
Operation: Potty Train...

Weekend Recap

2011-04-11T11:20:00.000-04:00

The following is a brain (and phone) dump of our weekend :)

Friday night...with nothing to do! We had dinner and headed to a bonfire, but didn't stay too long.
Saturday morning we had breakfast at Cracker Barrell with my mom.

Saturday Afternoon we shopped in Kennesaw: Stopped by Abbadabba's to pick up my TOM's (a certain little girl, who is OBSESSED with shoes, pitched a fit when we left all of HER shoes); REI for Collin to pick up some stuff for his upcoming trip to Honduras; And Annabelle and I shopped in Old Navy and Target.
Saturday night we went to the Phillip's for a cookout. I thought Annabelle looked so old with her ponytail :( And she may be a tad obsessed with her sunglasses :)

Sunday morning we attended church.
Sunday afternoon, while Collin was having Worship Practice, Annabelle and I had lunch at home and she napped while I did a few chores. She woke up so sweet and wanted to play with "pway dough". She sat at the kitchen table forever, taking the play dough out and putting it back in. Then she wanted to play with her stickers. And while I was in our room folding clothes, I realized that I hadn't heard Annabelle in a couple of minutes. I walked out of our room and she walked out of her room like this:

Sunday Night we had dinner at my parents. We had the best time hanging out outside, drawing with sidewalk chalk and passing Gracie around :) On the way over there Annabelle was sitting in her car seat eating her snack (with her shades...of course) just talking away to me :)

Little Munchkins Monogramming

2011-04-07T08:46:00.001-04:00

My friend Brittany has a business called Little Munchkins Monogramming, and she creates so many cute things for children (and adults). I asked her to make Annabelle a birthday shirt and of course it came out SUPER cute!
She featured Annabelle on her blog today :)

Women's Retreat

2011-04-05T09:09:00.000-04:00

This past weekend was our Women's Retreat...and boy was is exactly what I needed! Priscilla Shirer was a wonderful teacher! It was the perfect ending to our busy season.

I was on the decorating team. And Friday was the day our ideas came together...and it was beyond what i imagined! We were decorating the church until almost 5, and thank goodness Debbie was able to pick Annabelle up from school for us. I rushed home to freshen up and throw some clothes in a bag (for a sleepover afterwards).

Saturday, after the retreat (and everything was cleaned up), I headed to Tryston's 3rd birthday and Gauge's 1st birthday party! Debbie was so sweet to take Annabelle for me, and I was so glad to see my girl! It was such a pretty day, but super windy. I'm pretty sure the pollen was bothering Annabelle, she napped on the way home and did not wake up happy. She was snotty and couldn't breathe through her nose :(

We ended up no going to church Sunday, and good thing because Annabelle didn't wake up feeling much better. Still snotty and not able to breathe...and all she wanted to do was lay with me on the couch.
Collin came home right after Annabelle went down for a nap, and he cut the grass while I got in a quick workout and shower. Annabelle seemed to be feeling better after her nap.
After dinner and a bath we took Annabelle out for ice cream.

Looking forward to a weekend full of...nothing!

Wedding Weekend!!

2011-03-30T15:52:00.000-04:00

This weekend wore me out! I feel like I ran around, went to bed late, and woke up early! But we had the best time this weekend!

Friday, I got pampered with a mani/pedi, got a spray tan (LOVE it!), had lunch with friends, grocery shopped, got ready and attended Abi's rehearsal!, stayed up late!

Saturday, we got up early-ish and headed to Abi's parents to get ready for her big day! She looked gorgeous! Too bad the weather did not...it was rainy most of the day. Of course, we were running behind...but they got some good pictures outside at a random barn.
After the wedding we headed to The Highlander for an after party with the bride and groom.

Sunday, we had church, lunch, and then headed to my parents for Collin;s birthday dinner. And to see our girl! She had been staying with my parents this weekend, because both Collin and I were in the wedding.

I took Monday off...and was looking forward to the zoo, but the weather was nasty. So instead, we went to the hospital :) At Annabelle's Well Check, they thought she might be anemic. We went to the lab TWICE to get blood drawn, and BOTH times the sample came back invalid (Apparently when you take blood from the finger it clots pretty fast and is deemed unusable), thank goodness no one called me to let me know...
I had to call the doctor's office both times to find out the sample was invalid. Finally the second time it happened the doctor sent me to outpatient at the hospital to get a sample. And thank goodness this sample was valid! And Annabelle is NOT anemic! Good times!
After we left the hospital we had lunch with Collin and the boys, and while at Chick Fil A we ran into our pastor and he ended up buying every one's lunch! We shopped at Target and picked up a few things at Publix, then home for naps!

We have a non busy week, followed by our LAST busy weekend...hopefully for awhile :)

Bachelorette Weekend!

2011-03-21T10:51:00.000-04:00

Both Collin and I are in a weeding this Saturday, and this weekend was the bachelor/bachelorette weekend!

We both had a really good, and RELAXING time! I was gone Thursday and Friday night and Collin was gone just Friday night.

After Abi's Lingerie Shower Thursday night, we headed to the cabin up near Ellijay. We didn't get there until after 4:00 am, and stayed up talking some more. Friday was a super relaxing day, woke up around noon, ate Waffle House, browsed around Walmart, back to the cabin and relaxed until dinner. Saturday, had breakfast at the Dillard House (YUMMY!), packed up and headed to Cumberland for some shopping.

Saturday night I was reunited with Collin and Annabelle at Hike with Hope's Benefit night. Annabelle could have cared less about me, she was more interested in Cousin and Hannah :)

Sunday, Collin turned 26...and I felt so bad we didn't have anything planned. I had a meeting for our Women's Retreat coming up, and had to do some last minute shopping for it. But the 3 of us had dinner at O'Charleys.

Last night Annabelle did not want to go to bed. She kept fussing or talking.

Here's a little video of her singing. It was 9:30 pm and we put her to bed at 8:00 pm:

Operation: No Paci...Take 2

2011-03-21T09:47:00.000-04:00

Day 3: 3/14/11
She did so good this day! She asked for it, but quickly forgot about it! Went to bed fussing, but not for her paci.

Day 4: 3/15/11
No mention of the P word! She went to bed fussing, not for her paci, but because she wanted to watch the Backyardigans. :)

Day 5: 3/16/11 thru Day 7: 3/18/11
Pretty sure she has forgotten about it! I declare this house Paci Free...Paci's have been thrown away!!

Day 8: 3/19/11
Annabelle asked about her paci this morning. No turning back...I will NOT buy anymore paci's!

Opeation: No Paci...Take 2?

2011-03-14T12:28:00.000-04:00

I think (HOPE!) we are on the road to getting rid of the paci...again.
Annabelle has almost forgotten about her paci. She has not asked for it, whined for it, she's gone to bed without it, she hasn't even talked about it!

The last time she had her paci was Saturday morning.
Day 1: 3/12/11
We had plans to go to The Yellow River Game Ranch, she did not ask for it once!
That night we got home at her bedtime and she REALLY needed a bath, but it was not without a protest. I was really surprised she did not ask for her paci. She went to bed without a fuss.

Day 2: 3/13/11
Didn't ask for at all today! Even napped and went to bed without it!

Spring Fever!

2011-03-14T11:11:00.000-04:00

What a beautiful weekend! I was so glad to spend most of it outside enjoying the weather and longer days!

Friday, I had a doctor's appointment. Mom tagged along and we had lunch on the square in Carrollton, shopped a little. It was such a nice day! That night Collin, Annabelle, and I had a family date...Chick Fil A and grocery shopping. Annabelle really doesn't like to go grocery shopping, and it is getting more difficult to do so...I'm lucky that most weeks I can do it by myself.

Saturday, Annabelle and I headed to the mall to buy a few things...then we met our friends and headed to The Yellow River Game Ranch. By far the best $8 (plus about $100 in gas), I've ever spent! Annabelle and her friends L-O-V-E-D it! And wouldn't you know...I FORGOT my camera! Mother of the year! Luckily...my friends have AMAZING cameras and did NOT forget theirs...can't wait to see what they got!
We finished the day off with dinner at Moe's!

Sunday, was church and lunch with friends...then we headed to mom and dad's for mom's birthday dinner. Annabelle fell asleep on the way over there and was not really into finishing her nap at Gammy and Pappy's...so we spend the better part of the afternoon outside.

Looking forward to this weekend: Abi's Lingerie Shower...then BACHLOERETTE WEEKEND!

Busy Weekend!

2011-03-07T10:11:00.000-05:00

We had a super busy weekend! Not really much down time...but we had lots of fun!

Friday, Weston got to hang out with us. Annabelle loves spending time with her cousin! She had her 2 year "Well" Check-up, so the 3 of us piled in the car. They were so good! No fussing, no tantrums, just pure sweetness! Everyone kept asking if they were twins, and when I told them they were cousins, the next question was...how old is your son? :) Must have been the hair! Annabelle didn't even fuss during her "Well" Check-up, until her shots. She even let them prick her finger, and didn't even flinch!
2 year stats:
31 LBS. 14 OZ.
2'10" tall

Now onto her "Well" Check-up...Annabelle had a double ear infection (has not complained about it once, although the doctor told me that it didn't look too bad), had low hemoglobin and may be anemic (had to go across the hall to get more blood drawn. Praise the Lord they pricked her thumb and didn't have to draw from her arm!), and has to change to 2% milk (Whole milk has too many calories, she gained 2 pounds in a month!). Other than that she's is HEALTHY! Praise the Lord! I should hear her blood results today or tomorrow.

After we left the doctor's office (after being there for 2 hours!), we headed to the mall to meet my friend Brittany and her son Rhett for lunch and play time! We weren't in the car 2 minutes and this is what I saw:

Pure Sweetness!

No worries! I was stopped at a red light when I took the picture :)

We got to the mall, ate and played while Brittany and I chatted about our upcoming Women's Retreat at church!

On the way home, both babes fell back asleep and didn't even wake up when I brought them inside...and continued to sleep for 2 hours!

Collin was playing in a wedding on Saturday and attended the rehearsal Friday night...so it was just me and Anna. We met Laurice at Publix, so she could pick Wes up and I got Annabelle's antibiotic...then we headed to Chick Fil A for dinner. Annabelle loves to play on the playground after we eat, and this time she got the courage to climb up and really play on the playground...then my worst fear happened. There were other kids playing in there (with no parent supervision!), and these girls were picking Annabelle up and hugging her, then another little girl pushed her down and Annabelle started crying. So I did what I had to, and climbed up to get her :( It was so sad. She kept saying "I go home mommy". So we left.

Funny Story: That night, while I was giving Annabelle a bath, she kept saying "ROAR!" with hand motions. I asked what she was, and she said "ROAR! I dinosaur Mommy! ROAR!"

Saturday, Annabelle woke up nice and early at 6:30! Not sure what she was thinking! So we got up and going. We had breakfast at Martin's and went to the grocery store. Came home, and I guess waking up that early was catching up with her, because she asked to go "Night Night". We had Livi's birthday party at 1, then home to get ready for Sage and Stacie's wedding. Annabelle stayed with our friends Emily and Todd.

The wedding was beautiful! And we had so much fun!

Sunday, was church then lunch with friends. I got a quick workout in, cut Collin's hair, and cooked Chicken Chili for dinner! Daddy came over to pick Buddy up, and stayed for dinner. Then Allen called and asked if her could stop by on his way to Mississippi for work, so he stayed for dinner as well!

Hoping for a non busy week, with a really fun weekend to the Yellow River Game Ranch on Saturday!!

What Annabelle said...the other day

2011-03-02T09:36:00.000-05:00

Collin and Annabelle were getting ready to leave the house the other day and she saw a picture of herself, and said "Aw Wee An-belle...she cute!"

Birthday's and Gala's and Shower's...oh my!

2011-03-01T13:15:00.000-05:00

What a weekend! Let's begin with Annabelle's birthday!

When we celebrate a birthday...we celebrate for a week! Annabelle was no different! She had her Party Saturday with all her cute little friends, then we had a cookout Saturday night with her secondary Aunts and Uncles, Wednesday night we had a family dinner at our house!

First things first! We woke Annabelle singing "Happy Birthday!", she thought it was the best thing! And all morning she would say "Hap-pe Birf day to ME!". We played for a bit, then headed to school. She took cupcakes to share with her friends. I had to work for a couple of hours, then picked her up and we had ice cream at Chick Fil A. When we got home she wanted to take baby for a walk, so we walked down our street pushing her baby in her stroller :)

We had a house full Wednesday night, and had the best time!!

Last week, I had to work all 5 days...the horror! Because we were getting ready for our Awards Gala that was being held Saturday night. Everything went perfect and we didn't get home till after 11.

Sunday, was Abi's shower! It was the cutest shower ever! She got lots of good stuff!

On the way home from the shower (6:00 pm), Annabelle fell asleep...she was so tired!! I finally got her to eat some dinner, then she got a bath, and went to bed!

Thankfully, I had Monday off...so I cleaned, did laundry, picked up my parents dog (they're on the way up to Washington...my grandfather passed away last week), and cooked dinner while trying to avoid the tornadoes.

Another busy weekend coming up! Livi's first birthday party and Saga and Stacie are getting married!!

Annabelle @ 24 months

2011-02-23T08:30:00.003-05:00

Talking:

Makes 3 word sentences:

I wolve you (I love you)
I hold you
Come here mommy (or daddy)
I have sippy

Still loves of jibber jabber that we don't understand :)

Dancing! Holy cow this girl LOVES to dance! She keeps beat very good too!
Wears size 4 diaper, wears mostly 24 month clothing, and some 2T, and a size 6 shoe.

Happy Birthday Annabelle!

2011-02-23T08:30:00.002-05:00

Today, our sweet baby turns 2! I wish I could just freeze time and not let her get older!

This past year has been so much fun! Annabelle has become a little girl, and not so much a toddler. She has learned to communicate with us, become more independent, and developed her our little (ok...maybe not so little!) personality.

I think back to when we found out we were pregnant, and thinking our lives were over...but I realize now, our lives were just beginning. At night, after Annabelle has gone to bed, I replay the day and think how blessed my life is. I'm not sure if our lives would be as exciting and full without our sweet girl.
Don't get me wrong, parenting is difficult! There are some days when I'm not sure how much longer I can deal with the tantrums, or I lose my temper...but, most days I can't get enough of that little girl. And hearing "I wlove you mommy"...there are no words to describe what that does to my soul!

Happy Birthday Annabelle!

Love,

Daddy and Mommy

Birthday Party!

2011-02-21T10:29:00.000-05:00

It was the party that almost wasn't.
Annabelle woke up Thursday around 10:30 pm vomiting. And we didn't get any sleep till around 3 Friday morning. Praise the Lord Annabelle was feeling a bit better Friday and wasn't sick anymore, but was exhausted (and so were Collin and I)! My plan for Friday was to run all my errands while Annabelle was in school, but she and I stayed inside and slept, and I did a little bit of cleaning. Once Collin got home I left to get last minute things for the party.

Saturday morning Collin's dad came over to give Annabelle her gift, and they played for a bit before he had to go. Annabelle went down for an early nap and Collin and I left to go set up, while my parents stayed with Annabelle.
The party was a blast! The kids loved to room and the activities. After food, zebra cakes, and presents...the party planners brought out the mat and the kiddos were doing flips, rolls, and hops. Then the trampoline was pulled out, then the tunnel, and finally the parachute. After that we danced and played freeze dance.
And before everyone left, the kids got tattoos...my child got 2 sleeves :)
That night we had a cookout with friends...and ended with a camp fire in the back yard!
Annabelle was so tired, about 7:30 she asked to go night night :)

Sunday, was church, then we picked up some lunch and headed to Mom and Dad's for Allen and Whitney's birthday Low County Boil...yum! It was a beautiful to be outside!

I have a super duper busy week at work and I'm looking forward to having a family dinner on Wednesday on Annabelle's birthday! And throwing a shower for Abi on Sunday!

Enjoy pictures from the party!

Valentine's Weekend!

2011-02-15T09:06:00.000-05:00

We had such a fun Valentine's weekend!

Collin and I had a date night Friday night. We had dinner at Tokyo...yummm! Annabelle had a fun night with her Nana and Pawpaw!

Saturday we picked Annabelle up, had lunch, napped a little, then headed to Kennesaw for a few errands and ended up at Chuckie E. Cheese for dinner and some fun! Annabelle L-O-V-E-D it! She loved all the kids! She loved the games! She loved the rides! Especially the carousel!

Sunday was church, home for lunch, and naps! We had spaghetti for dinner and that always gets messy!

Valentine's Day, I woke up to a single BEAUTIFUL rose and the sweetest card! Annabelle took cupcakes and cards to school. She was so hyped up on sugar when she got home!

This weekend begins Annabelle's Birthday week! I cannot believe my sweet girl is about to be 2!

2011-02-14T06:00:00.001-05:00

What Annabelle said tonight!

2011-02-10T20:00:00.001-05:00

We were eating pie that was leftover from home group last night, and Collin was playing with Annabelle. Finally she said "Enouf Dad de! Time OUT!".
All we could do was laugh!

Weekend Recap

2011-02-07T11:08:00.000-05:00

Our weekend was fantastic! Full of fun, relaxing, and eating!

Friday, I got my hair done...it looks a zazillion times better! I'm so thankful for sweet friends, especially when they are a hair stylist :)...ha! After Brittany made me over, I went a picked Annabelle up and met her Pappy. She stayed with her Gammy and Pappy Friday night while Collin and I went bowling with our old smallgroup. We had a blast and so did Annabelle! She got to visit her Nene and sweet "Gacie".

Saturday, Collin and I got up and went out for breakfast, then back home so he could drop me off, then he met friends and headed to Kennesaw. I, on the other hand, got to go grocery shopping (Jealous?). Dropped the groceries off at the house, then headed to pick Annabelle up. She was sleeping when we got home, so I got to sneak in a quick workout. Collin got home and we had a fun family afternoon.

Sunday, was church, lunch, and naps. Well only naps for Annabelle...I got another quick workout and Collin changed my oil. We headed to the Phillips' for a "Superbowl" Party. We did everything but sit and watch the game. There was a TON of good food! And all I wanted to do was eat!

We have another non busy week and weekend...then the crazyness begins!

Manners

2011-02-02T13:50:00.000-05:00

Manners are so important to Collin and me. Once Annabelle started talking, we always encouraged her to say please and thank you. And now she's a bit older, we encourage her to say yes ma'am/sir and no ma'am/sir.

Last night we had a fun evening with Kelly, Laurice, and Weston. We had dinner at the mall, played for a bit, and did a little shopping.
Annabelle had a Chick Fil A kids meal and if you return the toy you can get an ice cream. I asked Annabelle if she would like to have some ice cream and she shook her head yes. I gave her the book and we walked back to Chick Fil A.
Annabelle headed the girl the book, and the girl asked "Do you want some ice cream?" and Annabelle replied with "Yes Ma'am!"...It was a proud momma moment! All these times she WAS listening to me! I told her that was very polite and I was so proud of her for using manners!
The girl brought back her ice cream and handed it to Annabelle and said "Here you go sweetie!" and Annabelle replied "Thank you!"...double proud momma moment!

Back at the table, Annabelle "shared" her ice cream with her cousin. And by sharing, I mean she would scoop a little bit out of the bowl, feed it to him, and lick the remaining ice cream off the spoon...then feed herself 2 bigger bites.

We working on sharing...

Wedding Numero Uno

2011-01-31T11:52:00.001-05:00

My weekend started super sweet! I got to spend the night with my Sister-In-Law and newest niece! My brother is out of town working, so I got to enjoy some girl time! We did a whole bunch of nothing!

I left Friday afternoon, and called Collin on my way home. He informed me that Annabelle's school just called and said she fell and bit her lip. She was OK (no stitches needed), but they just wanted us to know. When I walked in the class, she ran up to me, pointed to her chin and said "Boo Boo momma, WAHHH!"...she's not dramatic at all :)

I got the story from her teacher. What happened was...my child (lets call her Grace) was walking up to a swing about to get on it, on her belly...but misses it completely. Poor girl! She has a nice little scrape on her chin, and a fat lip. She got lots of TLC from her teachers, and her Boo Boo seems to be healing nicely.
We didn't absolutely NOTHING Friday night. Which was very nice!

Saturday, was BEAUTIFUL! A sneak peek of spring! And of course we had errands to run, but at least we didn't have to lug coats around.
That night we were invited to Blake and Hannah's wedding. Annabelle was going to stay with her Nana and Pawpaw, but was unable to at the last minute. So we dressed her up and took her with us. She did so good during the wedding, she actually watched the whole ceremony. When Hannah walked down the isle Annabelle said "Aww we Pretty!".
And the reception was fun! Annabelle was a little overwhelmed with all the people at first. After some people left, she got on the dance floor, and did not leave till it was time to go. She was a Maniac dancing!
After we left there, we stopped at McDonald's for a bite to eat and changed Annabelle into her jammies. She slept SO GOOD that night :)

Sunday was church, and then I had to go to Kennesaw to order my bridesmaid dress for Abi's wedding, while Collin and Annabelle had lunch with friends. Then it was home for naps, while I worked out.
It was such a beautiful afternoon, we spend much of it outside.

Operation: No Paci

2011-01-25T10:47:00.000-05:00

Ever since Annabelle found her paci, we have been letting her have it WHEN she asks for it. We do try to redirect her, but we don't deny her the paci.

With that being said, Annabelle did not take a paci all weekend! And usually will not ask for it until bedtime. So I do think we are in the right direction.

Going to the Chapel...

2011-01-24T10:17:00.000-05:00

Collin and I have not been to wedding since 2008...and this year we have 3 within the first 3 months (4 total for 2011)! This weekend was full of wedding festivities!

First off, I am so thankful Annabelle has grandparents that adore her! She spend the first part of the weekend with her Nana and Pawpaw. She loves going over there to see the animals.

Friday night I went to Hannah's lingerie shower. These showers are so much fun! Lots of good desserts and girl talk :)

Saturday we went dress shopping with Abi! We started out with breakfast at this super cute restaurant then headed to New Natalie's. She didn't find THE dress there, but luckily got an appointment with David's Bridal. We had some time to kill before her appointment, so we had a "snack" at Six Feet Under. YUMMY! 10 girls and lots of fried food :)
We got to David's Bridal at 5 and we left at 7 with a beautiful dress, accessories, and we know what our bridesmaid dresses are (we just have to go back to try it on and order it). Abi looked stunning!
It was a good day hanging out with the girls! But I sure did miss my little family!

Sunday was church, lunch, and naps! The perfect ending to a fun weekend!

Annabelle @ 23 months

2011-01-23T08:30:00.000-05:00

I cannot believe my baby is about to be 2!! People would tell me that time would speed up after having children, I would blow them off...now, I wish I would have believed them, because it is so true!

Loves to sing!

Jesus Loves Me
Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star
ABC's
5 Little Monkeys

Uses her manners:

Yes Ma'am (Including a head nod)
No Ma'am
Yes Sir
No Sir
Excuse me

Loves to play with technology and knows how it works:

Our phones (She'll say "Hello" and turn it around and say "Cheese!")
Our cameras (She'll say "Cheese!")
Remotes
iPads

Makes us laugh DAILY!
Wears size 4 diaper, wears mostly 24 month clothing, and some 2T, and a size 6 shoe.

Weekend Recap

2011-01-17T10:18:00.000-05:00

We non busy weekend, but we hardly were at the house...I had to get out!

Friday night we had dinner at Chick Fil A...solely for the purpose to get out of the house and for Annabelle to be able to play.

Saturday we headed to the mall for a few things, but mainly to let Annabelle play on the indoor playground they have. She loved it! Came home for naps, then back out the door to visit my mother in law, then Annabelle had dinner with my parents, while Collin and I had Quiznos and grocery shop (jealous?).

Sunday was church, lunch, and naps. Then a special surprise dinner with my parents and my brother, sister in law, and our niece Gracie. The perfect end to our weekend!

Operation: No Paci

2011-01-16T21:00:00.000-05:00

Day 3: 1/15/11
She did OK this day. She fussed for it at nap time and bed time...also, asking for it multiple times.

Day 4: 1/16/11
This day was the worst! She was no happy, and while we were at dinner last night with my family, she found one in her bag...

Back to square 1..

Operation: No Paci

2011-01-14T20:58:00.000-05:00

The Beginning:
Wednesday (1/12/11) night, Annabelle and I were looking at pictures of Gracie. Annabelle said "Gracie has Paci!", I told her she did and asked if she would like to give Gracie her paci's. Annabelle did, and didn't ask for it again that night. She went to bed without a fuss.

Day 1: 1/13/11
She woke and didn't even ask for her paci till the afternoon. She even went down for a nap without it.
When she woke up is when she started asking for it, but I would redirect her. Act like her baby was crying and we would console the baby, sing one of her favorite songs, or I would even act like I was crying (she always thinks that's funny).
That night was a different story, she did not want to go to bed without it. But she calmed down enough and I put her in her crib. She did fuss for about 5 minutes, but went to sleep.

Day 2: 1/14/11
Today was a little bit harder, because she really wanted her paci, but we did not give in. We would redirect her. Again, she didn't want to go to sleep without it. She fussed for about 2 minutes, then went to sleep.

She has now gone 48 hours without one, and we are holding our ground!

What Annabelle did/said today!

2011-01-13T23:04:00.002-05:00

Annabelle has been a NUT today! I wanted tor remember/share these :)

This morning, Collin was walking out the door and Annabelle saw that he forgot his sunglasses. She cried out "WAIT DADDY!" grabbed them up and ran them to him.
She was looking the picture below and said "Aww Wee...cute"
She has been talking my ear off today! "Daddy at Work" "Pappy at Work" "Bud Bud nite nite"
She has a Bible and wanted me to read the poems to her and we sand "Jesus Loves Me" more than 10 times...wish these moments would last forever!
Last night, after looking at pictures of Gracie, she gave her new cousin her paci. She has been without one ever since. She has asked for it multiple times, but I redirect her...I act like her baby is crying and we console her baby :)
I have been doing work from home yesterday and today (and tomorrow...GET ME OUT OF THIS HOUSE!), and we have been fighting over the chair that I sit in. If I get up, she gets in it and says "My chair, Mom Me"
I was vacuuming the living room, and Annabelle ran to her room to grab her vacuum to "help" me :)
Hearing "Wuv ou Mom Me" melts my heart...every time!
And kisses...kisses melt my heart...I've gotten many of those today :)

Annabelle meet Gracie, Gracie meet Annabelle

2011-01-13T11:43:00.001-05:00

This past Saturday we got to go to Allen and Whitney's for Collin and Annabelle to meet Gracie. We had the best time! My parents were there, as well as my aunt. We had pizza for dinner and just visited and passed the baby around :) Gracie is such a sweet baby and didn't mind at all!

We have been snowed in at some friend's house since Sunday, and actually got back home yesterday. I haven't been able to make the trip downtown for work, but have been able to do some work from home. Collin went back yesterday, but said the roads weren't good at all.

Annabelle liked the snow better this time and actually walked and touched it :)

Gracie Mae Groth

2011-01-06T09:26:00.001-05:00

7 lbs. 4 oz. 20.5 inches long!

New Year 2011

2011-01-03T10:12:00.000-05:00

I have no idea where 2010 went, and I was just getting used to writing 2010.

Our New Year's weekend started out with a day date, just me and Collin. We headed to Kennesaw to do a little shopping, had lunch at the Varsity (YUMMO!), and caught a movie at the AMC. Annabelle had so much fun with her Nana and Pawpaw. That night we hung out with friends and headed home shortly after midnight.

1.1.11 we ate the traditional greens and black eyed peas...except I didn't :)

1.2.11 I turned 25 years old. We had a good day and ended it with tacos at my parents.

Now we are on Baby Watch 2011...Gracie SHOULD be here sometime this week :)

2010

2010-12-31T08:30:00.012-05:00

Was a great year! Excited to see what 2011 will bring!

January:

February:

March:

April:

May:

June:

July:

August:

September:

October:

November:

December:

What Annabelle said today!

2010-12-30T20:32:00.001-05:00

Last night we were in the kitchen cooking dinner, and Annabelle walked out of the kitchen and said "Later mommy". She already acting like a teenager!

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We didn't have to dream...

2010-12-28T09:50:00.000-05:00

Because we got a WHITE Christmas!

Our Christmas Festivities started out with the Harmon Christmas on the 23rd. There were 8 kids, and it was pure chaos...but so much fun! The kids loved opening their presents and play so well together! Annabelle got a Paper Jamz guitar from Nana and Pawpaw, a Dora mermaid bath toy, Dora jammies, and bath crayons. The grown ups played Dirty Santa, and it was very tame...compared to years past :)

Christmas Eve morning we headed to Abi's to pick up Aurora's old Rose Petal Cottage, and see Abi's ring (she just got engaged like 2 days before)! Then we headed to the Groth Christmas. My aunt's got Annabelle the cutest little battery powered PINK VW beetle. She loved it! And it was so funny to watch her "drive" it. Thank goodness it had a handle for mommy to guide (and sometimes power) her around. I didn't think we were going to get her to open any other presents :) But we did...she also got an Elf on the Shelf, and a cute little puppy dog.
After we opened presents with our extended family, we walked next door to mom and dad's, because Santa always visits Gammy and Pappy on Christmas Eve. Annabelle got: a baby, stroller, sock monkey, books, 2 magna doodles, a really cute outfit, ABC chalk board, vacuum cleaner, and my parents are getting her a wooden playground.
She had a lot of fun opening her presents, and we had a lot fun watching her :)
She started getting cranky, because she did not take a nap, so we headed home around 7 and she was asleep before we pulled out of the driveway.

Christmas Day we stayed home. Usually we got to my parents for breakfast, but we decided this year to stay home...and it was the best decision EVER! Annabelle woke up around 8, and Santa stopped by our house. He brought a tea set, a new purse, and jammies. And from Mommy and Daddy she got 2 books. We cooked hashbrown casserole and piggy's in a blanket. Around 10, Collin's mom, step dad, and grandparents came over for breakfast and to see Annabelle's toys. She "drove" her car around for them, and around 11 the snow began to fall, and it didn't stop...we got about 3 inches! After they left, Annabelle took a nap, and we relaxed until it was time for...
The Ray Christmas. Collin's dad and step mom came over and while they played, I was cooking spaghetti...there is nothing like eating spaghetti on a snowy evening! When Carson, Laurice, and Weston got there we opened presents. Annabelle got: A princess towel, a jacket, pillow pet, the cutest top, an Ariel bath toy, and princess bath puffs.
After presents, we ate and the kiddos played. Then we celebrated Carson's birthday.

The day after Christmas the roads were icy and church was cancelled. After Collin's dad and step mom left, we started cleaning the post Christmas...but didn't have much success. We had lunch at Collin's mom's house. Grandma cooked fried chicken, mashed potatoes, biscuits, peas...it was so good!

I didn't have to work Monday, and I'm only in the office today. I'm looking forward to having the rest of the week off! And having an All day date with Collin on Friday, while Annabelle hangs out with her Nana, to celebrate my birthday! I can't believe I'm about to be 25!

Annabelle @ 22 months

2010-12-23T08:30:00.003-05:00

Uses her manners:

Peas (Please)
Sank ou! (Thanks you!)
You're Welcome
She covers her mouth when she coughs.
Says "Bess ou" (Bless you), when some one (or Buddy) sneezes.

Is learning her colors:

Red
Blue
Pink
Lellow (Yeloow)
Purple
Green

Knows the first 3 letters of the alphabet, and will repeat each letter.
Can count to 3, and will repeat each number.
LOVES to play outside!
Wears size 4 diaper, wearing 24 month size clothes, and a size 6 shoe.

2010 Christmas Card

2010-12-20T11:29:00.002-05:00

I mailed out our Christmas Cards last week. I am thrilled to death how they turned out! Shutterfly did an AMAZING job. It was SO SO easy to create (as in, all I did was add my pictures and type our names), it got to my mailbox super fast, and the quality...outstanding!

So, from my family to you...Merry CHRISTmas!

What Annabelle said today!

2010-12-20T10:06:00.000-05:00

Annabelle has been learning new words left and right lately! Some funny things she has been saying:

After pulling Collin's hair: "I sorry Daddy!"
After Buddy (my parent's dog) sneezed: "Bless you Bud Bud!"
When she wants to watch Yo Gabba Gabba: "I want Gabba"
When getting ready to run: "Ready, Set, GO!"
After grabbing her purse: "Bye Bye Mommy"

We had the BEST weekend planned...

2010-12-20T10:01:00.000-05:00

But had to cancel every single commitment. We had a gathering with our old smallgroup Friday night, we had and appointment with Santa on Saturday, a Christmas Party Sunday night, But had to cancel every single one of them.

Wednesday, Annabelle woke up sick and she told me "Ear Mommy". So I thought she had and ear infection. I made an appointment. As the day went on, she started feeling worse. All she wanted to do was sleep on my chest, and she started running a fever. Finally it was time to go to the doctor. We get called back right away. As soon as we get back to the room, they did a flu test...and I started crying! The doctor came in, and confirmed she had the flu...I broke down! We have been putting off Annabelle's flu shot, not on purpose, but because she was sick every time her appointment came up...I don't know how many times we re-scheduled. Finally, I got one for December 23...but a week before her appointment, she got the flu. AND on top of the flu, she has an ear infection.

While we're in the doctor's office, the temperature is falling and the roads are wet, and ice is starting to form.
We leave the doctor and drive to Publix to get meds and some Popsicles and Gatorade, and Collin was on his way to meet us. When he arrives at Publix, and mentions that he slipped on ice and fell into a ditch. Praise the Lord he was not hurt and his car is fine!

It takes us almost an hour to get home, but Praise Jesus we did!

As for the rest of the weekend...we stayed home. I was kinda glad to go to work today, but super happy that my mom is watching Annabelle this morning, and she'll return to school tomorrow.

Christmas Shopping Extravaganza 2010

2010-12-13T09:44:00.001-05:00

I love the weekends leading up to Christmas! They are filled with family and friends, good food and good laughs! This weekend was nothing short of that!

Friday, my parents came over for dinner. We just ordered pizza and enjoyed the company. Annabelle loves to put on a show!

Saturday, was our Christmas Shopping Extravaganza! We met friends at Cracker Barrell at 8:00!! Collin was unable to go because he was working and I was a little worried how Annabelle was going to act, but she was so sweet the entire day! She loved seeing all her friends at Cracker Barrell and even let me finish up our Christmas shopping. We left the mall around 1:00 and Annabelle was asleep at 1:01. She did not wake up till 3:30! Collin got home and we got ready to go to the Phillip's for pizza and "Christmas Vacation"! We had the best time! And Annabelle had lots of people to show off for.

Sunday, we had church AND SNOW! It was beautiful! Annabelle wasn't feeling well, so I brought her into service with us. She was so well behaved and even fell asleep at the end. We left church and headed to Douglasville. Collin help take fire wood to a homeless camp, and we ate lunch then headed to my parents house for family dinner! Annabelle was on nap strike, and she was so tired by 7:00. We stopped by Walgreen's and got some medicine, but she didn't go to sleep till 9:00.

We have a very slow week this week! I'm so glad, because come Friday we hit the ground running till Christmas! I can't wait!

These pictures are from Saturday night. Annabelle loves these boys! She is so lucky to be so loved!