We are looking forward to all that 2009 brings for our family and wish all of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! (You can click on the picture below for a larger image.)
Saying goodbye to 2008!
I can't believe it's been a month since updating this thing. Hopefully someone is still checking it occasionally. Anyway, I thought I would post some of our favorite pictures of the year. I didn't send out the "Christmas letter" I figure you can come here if you want to catch up with us. Of course, this year was special to us-having Hailey June 30. But we also managed to remodel a forclosed house, learned lots and lots about home improvement, celebrated Chris' grandpa's 100th birthday, I taught 8-9year olds in Primary, Chris harassed the Teacher's and scouts, I'm no longer working-staying home with Hailey, and Chris is busy with 2 jobs- Full time 24/48hr shift at Huntsville port authority (fire, ems, & police), Part time with Falkville police department as an investigator and patrolman.
We are looking forward to all that 2009 brings for our family and wish all of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! (You can click on the picture below for a larger image.)
We are looking forward to all that 2009 brings for our family and wish all of you a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! (You can click on the picture below for a larger image.)
Those baby blues!
Sometimes I wish I could see the world just as Hailey see's it-simple. She always has a smile in the morning, and it seems she can see your soul with those baby blues!
ROLL TIDE!!!! The Iron Bowl is next week! #1 Alabama will play Auburn- this game is huge! Tickets are selling for around $900.00 for nose bleeds! And one of Hailey's favorite activities is watching football on TV. She gets so animated during the game and sometimes Chris and I miss something because we're too busy laughing at Hailey. At least she's starting out right. I'm still keeping up on my Utes! They aren't doing too bad this year and I wish I could get to a game. Maybe next season! Here's a few pics of what happens in a game!
This is intense!
What are they doing?
This is getting good!
Fill "Er Up!
Alright I was so excited that gas was only $1.93 today that I topped off my full gas tank, filled Chris' truck, and filled every gas can we have, plus bought 2 more. I've had a few people email me about what I thought of the turnout of the election. Well, it's obvious what my feelings are about Obama so here's my thought. He was elected the President of the United States, the leader of the most powerful country in the world. There's nothing I can do now to change that- so like it or not our civil duty is to continue to obey the laws of the land and be a good citizen. However- my thought is BE PREPARED! Be prepared by paying off debt, and having food storage, and enjoy gas at $1.93 because I don't forsee it lasting. I suppose this is why the prophets having been preaching this for so long- be prepared; that's my opinion and official stance. I truly hope that Obama surprises me and things improve-however there is a reason I didn't vote for him.
I am also preparing for in-laws, lots of in-laws tomorrow. Having a baby reduces the amount of excuses I can use to not have to see these people often. Maybe I should have a better attitude, but for those of you who know the situation-you know what I'm talking about.
I am also preparing for in-laws, lots of in-laws tomorrow. Having a baby reduces the amount of excuses I can use to not have to see these people often. Maybe I should have a better attitude, but for those of you who know the situation-you know what I'm talking about.
SLEEP IS FOR THE WEAK!
Hailey slept through the night at 12weeks for all of maybe 2 weeks. This week both Hailey and I have been sick and there has not been much sleep for her or me. I had a Dr appt today and I talked him into giving me a B12 shot-and I have to tell you, it's great! Hailey has her 4 month check up tomorrow, so I'm anxious to see how much she weighs. 
We bought Hailey a bumbo chair today while we were up in the "city". She sits in it like a pro and watches TV with us. It's fun to see her want to see everything, I can't hold her toward me anymore. I always have to hold her facing forward or it looks like she'll break her little neck looking around. 
Oh yeah- for all you needing a redneck fix: the shopping cart lady came back by the other day! This time she didn't have patio furniture, instead she was pushing a giant stuffed tiger (like you would win at Lagoon). You have to look close to see her in this picture. (I didn't want to make it to obvious I was taking her picture-again.)
TRICK OR TREAT
We really didn't do too much for Halloween. Chris and I took Hailey to a few friends' houses so they could see her in her costume, then I handed out candy and Chris went to work. Hailey was such a cute pea!
Our pumpkin
Well, there's just no explanation for Chris, but Hailey sure is cute!
Saint in his prisoner costume.
Our pumpkin
Well, there's just no explanation for Chris, but Hailey sure is cute!
Saint in his prisoner costume.
Happy Halloween!
Alright- no more politics. Last night was trunk or treat at our church. Hailey was given her halloween shirt by one of the 4 year olds in our ward. So we got her a mummy beanie because it was super cold, and some way cute pumpkin bootie rattles and she had a very cute Halloween outfit. We'll get her in her costume tomorrow for trick or treating. I thought I'd just share some pictures.
Daddy and Hailey ready to carve a pumpkin.
Hailey Ready for Trunk or Treat
PEEK-
-A-
BOO!
Daddy and Hailey ready to carve a pumpkin.
Hailey Ready for Trunk or Treat
PEEK-
-A-
BOO!
A MUST READ...
A friend of mine sent this to me. You can see below where they called and confirmed the sender is a real person (not just some made up email floating around) I don't forward too many political emails but thought this should be one. If you would like this letter forwarded to your email, let me know. I was going to post some lame useless trivia-until I read this, I know it's long but please take the time to read it.
An impassioned letter from a "nobody". But he gives his telephone number at the end.
Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 at 3:19pm
Subject: A letter from Illinois
Dear Friends:
My name is Joe Porter. I live in Champaign, Illinois. I'm 46 years old, a born-again christian, a husband, a father, a small business owner, a veteran, and a homeowner. I don't consider myself to be either a conservative or liberal, and I vote for the person, not Republican or Democrat. I don't believe there are "two America's"- but every person in this country can be whomever and whatever they want to be if they'll just work to get there-and nowhere else on earth can they find such opportunities. I believe our government should help those who are legitimately downtrodden, and should always put the interests of America first. The purpose of this message is that I'm concerned about the future of this great nation. I'm worried that the silent majority of honest, hard-working, tax-paying people in this country have been passive for too long. Most folks I know choose not to involve themselves in politics. They go about their daily lives paying their bills, raising their kids, and doing what they can to maintain the good life. They vote and consider doing so to be a sacred trust. They shake their heads at the political pundits and so called "news", thinking that what they hear is always spun by whomever is reporting it. they can't understand how elected officials can regularly violate the public trust with pork barrel spending. They don't want government handouts. They want the government to protect them, not raise their taxes for more government programs. We are in the unique position in this country of electing our leaders. It's a privelege to do so. I've never found a candidate in any election with whom I agreed on everything. I'll wager that most of us don't even agree with our families or spouses 100% of the time. So when I step into the voting booth, I always try to look at the big picture and cast my vote for the man or woman who is best qualified for the job. I've hired a lot of people in my lifetime, and essentially that's what an election is-a hiring process. Who has the credentials? Whom do I want working for me? Whom can I trust to do the job right?
I'm concerned that a growing number of voters in this country simply don't get it. They are caught up on a fervor they can't explain, and calling it "change."
"Change What?" I ask.
"Well, we're going to change America," they say.
"In what way?" I query.
"We want someone new and fresh in the White House" they exclaim.
"So, someone who's not a politician?" I say.
"uh, well, no, we just want a lot of stuff changed. so we're voting for Obama," they state.
"So the current system, the system of freedom and democracy that has enabled a man to grow up in this great country, get a fine education, raise incredible amounts of money and dominate the news and win his party's nomination for the white house-that system's wrong?"
"no, no, that part of the system's okay-we just need a lot of change"
And so it goes. "Change we can believe in"
Quite frankly, I don't believe that vague proclamations of change hold any promise for me. In recent months, I've been asking virtually everyone I encounter how they're voting. I live in Illinois, so most folks tell me they're voting for Barack Obama. But no one can really tell me why-only that he's going to change a lot of stuff...
"Change, change, change." I have yet to find one single person who can tell me distinctly and convincingly why this man is qualified to be President and Commander-in-chief of the most powerful nation on earth-other than the fact that he claims he's going to implement a lot of change.
We've seen the emails about Obama's genealogy, his upbringing, his Muslim background, and his church affiliations. Let's ignore that for a moment. Put it all aside. Then ask yourself, "What qualifies this man to be my president? That he's a brilliant orator and talks about change?"
CHANGE WHAT?
Friends, I'll be forthright with you- I believe the American voters who are supporting Barack Obama don't have a clue what they're doing, as evidenced by the fact that not one of them-NOT ONE of them I've spoken to can spell out his qualifications. Not even the most liberal media can explain why he should be elected. Political experience? Negligible. Foreign relations? Non-existent. Achievements? Name one. Someone who wants to unite the country? If you haven't read his wife's thesis from Princeton, look it up on the web. This is who's lining up to be our next First Lady? The only thing I can glean from Obama's constant harping about change is that we're in for a lot of new taxes.
For me, the choice is clear. I've looked carefully at the two leading applicants for the job, and I've made my choice.
Here's a question-"Where were you five and a half years ago? Around Christmas 2002. You've had five or six birthdays in that time. My son has grown from a sixth grade child to a high school graduate. Five and a half years is a good chunk of time. About 2000 days. 2,000 nights of sleep. 6,000 meals, give or take."
John McCain spent that amount of time , from 1967 to 1973, in a North Vietnamese prisoner-of-war camp. When offered early release, he refused it. He considered this offer to be a public relations stunt by his captors, and insisted that those held longer than he should be released first. Did you get that part? He was offered his freedom, and he turned it down! A regimen of beatings and torture began.
Do you possess such strength of character? Locked in a filthy cell in a foreign country, would you turn down your own freedom in favor of your fellow man? I submit that's a quality of character that is rarely found, and for me, this singular act defines John McCain.
Unlike several presidential candidates in recent years whose military service is questionable or non-existent, you will not find anyone to denigrate the integrity and moral courage of this man. A graduate of Annapolis, during his naval service he received the Silver Star, Bronze Star, Purple Heart and Distinguished Flying Cross. His own son is now serving in the Marine Corps in Iraq. Barack Obama is fond of saying "We honor John McCain's service... BUT...," which is to me condescending and offensive-because what I hear is, "Let's forget this man's sacrifice for his country and his proven leadership abilities, and talk some more about change"
I don't agree with John McCain on everything- but I am utterly convinced that he is qualified to be our next President, and I trust him to do what's right. I know in my heart that he has the best interests of our country in mind. He doesn't simply want to be President- he wants to lead America, and there's a HUGE difference.
Factually, there is simply no comparison between the two candidates. A man of questionable background and motives who prattles on about change can't hold a candle to a man who has devoted his life in public service to this nation, retiring from the Navy in 1981 and elected to Senate in 1982.
Perhaps Obama's supporters are taking a stance between old and new. Maybe they don't care about McCain's service or strength of character, or his unblemished qualifications to be President. Maybe "likeability" is a higher priority for them than "trust". Being a prisoner of war is not what qualifies John McCain to be President of the United States of America- but his demonstrated leadership certainly DOES.
Dear friends, it is time for us to stand. It is time for thinking Americans to say, "Enough". It is time for anyone who wants to keep America first, who wants the right man to lead their nation, to start a dialogue with all their friends and neighbors and ask who they're voting for, and why.
There's a lot of evil in this world. That should be readily apparent to all of us by now. And when faced with that evil as we are now, I want a man who knows the cost of war on his troops and on his citizens. I want a man who puts my family's interests before any foreign country. I want a President who's qualified to lead. I want my country back, and I'm voting for John McCain.
Phone# ********** (It's in the email if you would like that forwarded to you).
I TRULY HAVE NOTHING ELSE TO SAY! THIS MAN HAS EXPRESSED MY THOUGHTS- ONLY MUCH BETTER THAN I EVER COULD. IF YOU WOULD LIKE THIS EMAIL FORWARDED TO YOU LET ME KNOW-SO THAT YOU CAN FORWARD IT ON TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS. OR HAVE THEM READ IT HERE. I THOUGHT THIS WAS SO IMPORTANT TO POST TODAY WITH THE ELECTION DRAWING CLOSER!
An impassioned letter from a "nobody". But he gives his telephone number at the end.
Sent: Monday, August 18, 2008 at 3:19pm
Subject: A letter from Illinois
Dear Friends:
My name is Joe Porter. I live in Champaign, Illinois. I'm 46 years old, a born-again christian, a husband, a father, a small business owner, a veteran, and a homeowner. I don't consider myself to be either a conservative or liberal, and I vote for the person, not Republican or Democrat. I don't believe there are "two America's"- but every person in this country can be whomever and whatever they want to be if they'll just work to get there-and nowhere else on earth can they find such opportunities. I believe our government should help those who are legitimately downtrodden, and should always put the interests of America first. The purpose of this message is that I'm concerned about the future of this great nation. I'm worried that the silent majority of honest, hard-working, tax-paying people in this country have been passive for too long. Most folks I know choose not to involve themselves in politics. They go about their daily lives paying their bills, raising their kids, and doing what they can to maintain the good life. They vote and consider doing so to be a sacred trust. They shake their heads at the political pundits and so called "news", thinking that what they hear is always spun by whomever is reporting it. they can't understand how elected officials can regularly violate the public trust with pork barrel spending. They don't want government handouts. They want the government to protect them, not raise their taxes for more government programs. We are in the unique position in this country of electing our leaders. It's a privelege to do so. I've never found a candidate in any election with whom I agreed on everything. I'll wager that most of us don't even agree with our families or spouses 100% of the time. So when I step into the voting booth, I always try to look at the big picture and cast my vote for the man or woman who is best qualified for the job. I've hired a lot of people in my lifetime, and essentially that's what an election is-a hiring process. Who has the credentials? Whom do I want working for me? Whom can I trust to do the job right?
I'm concerned that a growing number of voters in this country simply don't get it. They are caught up on a fervor they can't explain, and calling it "change."
"Change What?" I ask.
"Well, we're going to change America," they say.
"In what way?" I query.
"We want someone new and fresh in the White House" they exclaim.
"So, someone who's not a politician?" I say.
"uh, well, no, we just want a lot of stuff changed. so we're voting for Obama," they state.
"So the current system, the system of freedom and democracy that has enabled a man to grow up in this great country, get a fine education, raise incredible amounts of money and dominate the news and win his party's nomination for the white house-that system's wrong?"
"no, no, that part of the system's okay-we just need a lot of change"
And so it goes. "Change we can believe in"
Quite frankly, I don't believe that vague proclamations of change hold any promise for me. In recent months, I've been asking virtually everyone I encounter how they're voting. I live in Illinois, so most folks tell me they're voting for Barack Obama. But no one can really tell me why-only that he's going to change a lot of stuff...
"Change, change, change." I have yet to find one single person who can tell me distinctly and convincingly why this man is qualified to be President and Commander-in-chief of the most powerful nation on earth-other than the fact that he claims he's going to implement a lot of change.
We've seen the emails about Obama's genealogy, his upbringing, his Muslim background, and his church affiliations. Let's ignore that for a moment. Put it all aside. Then ask yourself, "What qualifies this man to be my president? That he's a brilliant orator and talks about change?"
CHANGE WHAT?
Friends, I'll be forthright with you- I believe the American voters who are supporting Barack Obama don't have a clue what they're doing, as evidenced by the fact that not one of them-NOT ONE of them I've spoken to can spell out his qualifications. Not even the most liberal media can explain why he should be elected. Political experience? Negligible. Foreign relations? Non-existent. Achievements? Name one. Someone who wants to unite the country? If you haven't read his wife's thesis from Princeton, look it up on the web. This is who's lining up to be our next First Lady? The only thing I can glean from Obama's constant harping about change is that we're in for a lot of new taxes.
For me, the choice is clear. I've looked carefully at the two leading applicants for the job, and I've made my choice.
Here's a question-"Where were you five and a half years ago? Around Christmas 2002. You've had five or six birthdays in that time. My son has grown from a sixth grade child to a high school graduate. Five and a half years is a good chunk of time. About 2000 days. 2,000 nights of sleep. 6,000 meals, give or take."
John McCain spent that amount of time , from 1967 to 1973, in a North Vietnamese prisoner-of-war camp. When offered early release, he refused it. He considered this offer to be a public relations stunt by his captors, and insisted that those held longer than he should be released first. Did you get that part? He was offered his freedom, and he turned it down! A regimen of beatings and torture began.
Do you possess such strength of character? Locked in a filthy cell in a foreign country, would you turn down your own freedom in favor of your fellow man? I submit that's a quality of character that is rarely found, and for me, this singular act defines John McCain.
Unlike several presidential candidates in recent years whose military service is questionable or non-existent, you will not find anyone to denigrate the integrity and moral courage of this man. A graduate of Annapolis, during his naval service he received the Silver Star, Bronze Star, Purple Heart and Distinguished Flying Cross. His own son is now serving in the Marine Corps in Iraq. Barack Obama is fond of saying "We honor John McCain's service... BUT...," which is to me condescending and offensive-because what I hear is, "Let's forget this man's sacrifice for his country and his proven leadership abilities, and talk some more about change"
I don't agree with John McCain on everything- but I am utterly convinced that he is qualified to be our next President, and I trust him to do what's right. I know in my heart that he has the best interests of our country in mind. He doesn't simply want to be President- he wants to lead America, and there's a HUGE difference.
Factually, there is simply no comparison between the two candidates. A man of questionable background and motives who prattles on about change can't hold a candle to a man who has devoted his life in public service to this nation, retiring from the Navy in 1981 and elected to Senate in 1982.
Perhaps Obama's supporters are taking a stance between old and new. Maybe they don't care about McCain's service or strength of character, or his unblemished qualifications to be President. Maybe "likeability" is a higher priority for them than "trust". Being a prisoner of war is not what qualifies John McCain to be President of the United States of America- but his demonstrated leadership certainly DOES.
Dear friends, it is time for us to stand. It is time for thinking Americans to say, "Enough". It is time for anyone who wants to keep America first, who wants the right man to lead their nation, to start a dialogue with all their friends and neighbors and ask who they're voting for, and why.
There's a lot of evil in this world. That should be readily apparent to all of us by now. And when faced with that evil as we are now, I want a man who knows the cost of war on his troops and on his citizens. I want a man who puts my family's interests before any foreign country. I want a President who's qualified to lead. I want my country back, and I'm voting for John McCain.
Phone# ********** (It's in the email if you would like that forwarded to you).
I TRULY HAVE NOTHING ELSE TO SAY! THIS MAN HAS EXPRESSED MY THOUGHTS- ONLY MUCH BETTER THAN I EVER COULD. IF YOU WOULD LIKE THIS EMAIL FORWARDED TO YOU LET ME KNOW-SO THAT YOU CAN FORWARD IT ON TO YOUR FRIENDS AND NEIGHBORS. OR HAVE THEM READ IT HERE. I THOUGHT THIS WAS SO IMPORTANT TO POST TODAY WITH THE ELECTION DRAWING CLOSER!
Everybody's an expert...
I'm going to take a quick minute to rant and rave on something I need to get out. So I'm sorry if this offends some of you. I'll expect the emails about why you think I'm wrong on this.
Rant and Rave #1
At church one sunday, one of our home teachers wanted to hold Hailey, which is great. But then he starts going on and on about how his only son (now 12years old) loved to be held over the forearm. It was the only way to calm him blah blah blah. I politely told him that Hailey doesn't like that position because of her reflux. Well, apparently he now had to prove his point that of course she would like that position too. So he put her over his forearm and of course she immediately started wailing. So then he starts bouncing her assuring me that she would calm down, right then BLAT! She spit up all over his suit pants and shoes, and it wasn't a little. (Ha Ha Ha) So as he was giving her back to me he was so surprised that his position trick didn't work- his son just loved it. Again I politely said "she's not your son".
My question is this: why is it that no one listens to the mother? I spend more time than anyone with my child, but what do I know? And it wasn't just the home teacher it's at the pediatrician's office (where Chris has to come with me to every appointment so I can get some information), the grocery store, family gatherings, etc.
Rant and Rave #2
This has happened more than once or twice, and really gets me all fired up. I was at Wally World the other day with Hailey in her stroller. The check out line was really long and it was passed time for her to eat so she was getting fussy. To prevent a total breakdown I was moving the stroller back and forth. The lady behind me told me "you better not do that, or you'll spoil her". The lady across from her chimed in with "oh yeah, don't rock her." Then when I finally got up to the check out counter the cashier instead of saying hello said "you're going to spoil that baby". So all 3 ladies felt they needed to tell me all the "don't do" rules.
Here they are if you don't want to spoil your baby:
1. Don't pick up your baby unless moving her from place to place.
2. Don't tend to your baby as soon as she cries. Let her cry it out or "self soothe" before you go to her. (if you know she's hungry, don't feed her until she's lost all hope that you are going to care for her)
3. The mother should not hold the baby for more than a few minutes at a time so the baby will get used to being away from her and take to other people.
4. NEVER NEVER NEVER Rock the baby.
Here's my opinion-again just my opinion (although the NICU nurses agree with me) THAT'S THE BIGGEST LOAD OF CRAP I'VE EVER HEARD!!! Aren't those rules the exact reason that children in orphanages grow up with trust and relationship issues??!
Of course I think the mother should hold her baby- I'm the only thing that's familiar to her in this world. And as far as not caring for your child until they cry it out- how do they learn they can trust you as their caregiver. And as their caregiver shouldn't you care for the child. I have another word for that "neglect". Now I understand that I'm a new mom and don't know squat about babies, no make that I don't know diddly squat about babies, but I know when my child needs me and more importantly that I need her too. I didn't get a wonderful bonding birthing experience, and it broke my heart that she bonded to the NICU nurses first (who by the way rocked her and rocked her). I went through hell and back to have a child and I am not going to pass any opportunity to show her she can trust me and that I love her. One day she's not going to want me to rock her, so yes I'll rock her to sleep. Does this mean that I never let her cry? No-If I have done everything I can to tend to her needs and she's still screaming I would rather her scream in her crib than in my ear. But notice I tend to her needs first.
I think it boils down to this: it's the quiet moments holding and rocking her that make the loud ones, the sleepless ones, and the smelly ones easier to bear. So yes my child is "spoiled" she is loved and cared for and the most important part of our lives. In fact just this morning at the pharmacy another lady told me I was spoiling my child. I told her "yep, she's very loved. thank you"
So here's some new pictures of my spoiled child:
Rant and Rave #1
At church one sunday, one of our home teachers wanted to hold Hailey, which is great. But then he starts going on and on about how his only son (now 12years old) loved to be held over the forearm. It was the only way to calm him blah blah blah. I politely told him that Hailey doesn't like that position because of her reflux. Well, apparently he now had to prove his point that of course she would like that position too. So he put her over his forearm and of course she immediately started wailing. So then he starts bouncing her assuring me that she would calm down, right then BLAT! She spit up all over his suit pants and shoes, and it wasn't a little. (Ha Ha Ha) So as he was giving her back to me he was so surprised that his position trick didn't work- his son just loved it. Again I politely said "she's not your son".
My question is this: why is it that no one listens to the mother? I spend more time than anyone with my child, but what do I know? And it wasn't just the home teacher it's at the pediatrician's office (where Chris has to come with me to every appointment so I can get some information), the grocery store, family gatherings, etc.
Rant and Rave #2
This has happened more than once or twice, and really gets me all fired up. I was at Wally World the other day with Hailey in her stroller. The check out line was really long and it was passed time for her to eat so she was getting fussy. To prevent a total breakdown I was moving the stroller back and forth. The lady behind me told me "you better not do that, or you'll spoil her". The lady across from her chimed in with "oh yeah, don't rock her." Then when I finally got up to the check out counter the cashier instead of saying hello said "you're going to spoil that baby". So all 3 ladies felt they needed to tell me all the "don't do" rules.
Here they are if you don't want to spoil your baby:
1. Don't pick up your baby unless moving her from place to place.
2. Don't tend to your baby as soon as she cries. Let her cry it out or "self soothe" before you go to her. (if you know she's hungry, don't feed her until she's lost all hope that you are going to care for her)
3. The mother should not hold the baby for more than a few minutes at a time so the baby will get used to being away from her and take to other people.
4. NEVER NEVER NEVER Rock the baby.
Here's my opinion-again just my opinion (although the NICU nurses agree with me) THAT'S THE BIGGEST LOAD OF CRAP I'VE EVER HEARD!!! Aren't those rules the exact reason that children in orphanages grow up with trust and relationship issues??!
Of course I think the mother should hold her baby- I'm the only thing that's familiar to her in this world. And as far as not caring for your child until they cry it out- how do they learn they can trust you as their caregiver. And as their caregiver shouldn't you care for the child. I have another word for that "neglect". Now I understand that I'm a new mom and don't know squat about babies, no make that I don't know diddly squat about babies, but I know when my child needs me and more importantly that I need her too. I didn't get a wonderful bonding birthing experience, and it broke my heart that she bonded to the NICU nurses first (who by the way rocked her and rocked her). I went through hell and back to have a child and I am not going to pass any opportunity to show her she can trust me and that I love her. One day she's not going to want me to rock her, so yes I'll rock her to sleep. Does this mean that I never let her cry? No-If I have done everything I can to tend to her needs and she's still screaming I would rather her scream in her crib than in my ear. But notice I tend to her needs first.
I think it boils down to this: it's the quiet moments holding and rocking her that make the loud ones, the sleepless ones, and the smelly ones easier to bear. So yes my child is "spoiled" she is loved and cared for and the most important part of our lives. In fact just this morning at the pharmacy another lady told me I was spoiling my child. I told her "yep, she's very loved. thank you"
So here's some new pictures of my spoiled child:
You Might Be A Redneck If...
If your idea of pest control is diesel fuel and a lighter.
If when you look out the back window you see ladies walking patio furniture in a shopping cart down the street.
If your dog has to use the pine tree as a scratching post.
And finally- you might be a redneck if you can't afford a pony so you make your child ride the family dog.
Hope this made y'all laugh. This is what happens in my world. That is here in nowhere Alabama.
A quick thought...
Alright- so I'm not one to get on a soapbox when it comes to politics. But I believe that this presidential election will change the way this country runs, and strongly think that every voting person should look at all the issues, then make an informed decision. Too many people have bought into all the hype. I was emailed this website and I think you should take the time to answer the questions. It presents the candidates statements on different issues without telling you who said it. At the end it tells you who you agreed with and who you support on the different issues. No hype. No advertising. No media opinions. Just where you stand.
http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/MatchoMatic/fullpage?id=5542139
I was also emailed some interesting information on Sara Palin. No matter who you are voting for you've got to respect what she's doing.
Just picked up some little known info on Palin's National Security Credentials. Some have shrugged off her position as Commander of the Alaskan National Gaurd but see this:
"Alaska is the first line of defense in our missile interceptor defense system. The 49th Missile Defense Battalion of the Alaska National Gaurd is the unit that protects the entire nation from ballistic missile attacks. It's on permanent active duty, unlike other Gaurd units. As governor of Alaska, Palin is briefed on highly classified military issues, homeland security, and counterterrorism. Her exposure to classified material may rival even Biden's. She's also the commander in chief of the Alaska State Defense Force (ASDF), a federally recognized militia incorporated into Homeland Security's counterterrorism plans. Palin is privy to military and intelligence secrets that are vital to the entire country's defense. Given Alaska's proximity to Russia, she may have security clearances we don't even know about. According the Washington Post, she first met with McCain in February, but nobody ever found out. This is a woman used to keeping secrets. She can be entrusted with our national security, because SHE ALREADY IS.
One last thought: pray for our troops, and please don't forget those fighting the wars in our communities that put their lives on the line everyday. Our police officers, fire fighters, and EMS personel.
http://abcnews.go.com/Politics/MatchoMatic/fullpage?id=5542139
I was also emailed some interesting information on Sara Palin. No matter who you are voting for you've got to respect what she's doing.
Just picked up some little known info on Palin's National Security Credentials. Some have shrugged off her position as Commander of the Alaskan National Gaurd but see this:
"Alaska is the first line of defense in our missile interceptor defense system. The 49th Missile Defense Battalion of the Alaska National Gaurd is the unit that protects the entire nation from ballistic missile attacks. It's on permanent active duty, unlike other Gaurd units. As governor of Alaska, Palin is briefed on highly classified military issues, homeland security, and counterterrorism. Her exposure to classified material may rival even Biden's. She's also the commander in chief of the Alaska State Defense Force (ASDF), a federally recognized militia incorporated into Homeland Security's counterterrorism plans. Palin is privy to military and intelligence secrets that are vital to the entire country's defense. Given Alaska's proximity to Russia, she may have security clearances we don't even know about. According the Washington Post, she first met with McCain in February, but nobody ever found out. This is a woman used to keeping secrets. She can be entrusted with our national security, because SHE ALREADY IS.
One last thought: pray for our troops, and please don't forget those fighting the wars in our communities that put their lives on the line everyday. Our police officers, fire fighters, and EMS personel.
No More Car Seat
Hailey only sleeps for long periods in her car seat. She has since the first day we brought her home. I suppose it's because it snuggled her up, rather than feeling lost in the crib. Lately with her reflux she has to sleep sitting up- so the car seat is what works around here. But last night I went into her room for her 1:00 feeding, she was making a few little sounds but not crying-anyway she had wiggled her way down the car seat and had fallen on the floor! Poor baby!-It didn't seem to phase her though. So now it's the crib and she isn't sleeping as well. Maybe she'll get used to it soon. I miss the car seat. 
They Live!!!!
We decided that this year we would plant a few tomatoes and one squash plant. They looked beautiful and were doing very well-until Hailey was born. They died pretty quickly (so we thought) and were taken over with weeds. About two weeks ago Chris took out the weeds and gave it some water and miracle grow. Well- it's a miracle they started perking up and now are full of tomatoes!!! These have to be the most resiliant plants ever. Alright, so this may not be exciting to anyone else, but for someone who spends all day with a crying newborn-I think it's great. Next year some of Chris' friends want to plant a big garden in our yard. I don't know if that's a good idea. I think I will end up keeping it up, and they'll take all the stuff.
So we tried to follow the prophet in planting a garden, knowing good and well that I can kill anything. It's a good thing Hailey's tough-to put up with us.
Hailey's Blessing
We had such a wonderful day today. Unfortunately we are just too far away for family to come. Chris' parents did make the trip and came to sacrament meeting with us. The bishop new ahead of time there would be non members, so they put together an amazing meeting. Chris gave her the sweetest blessing and she didn't make a peep-until the speaker got up. So I ended up in the lobby again. Hailey's dress was bigger than she was and she looked beautiful. Although she hates getting in dresses. A tomboy already-she's daddy's girl.
She sleeps!!! Finally she has started sleeping longer at night. About 7 hours on a very good day. Usually goes down at 8:00pm and wakes at 1-2:00am, sometimes 3am. However, when Chris is here she's up and down a lot, and Chris will hold and rock her for hours. She has him tied around her little finger already.
She is growing fast! I think she may grow out of newborn this month. Just wanted to share a few pics! Life is crazy, busy, and exhausting, and exciting.
She sleeps!!! Finally she has started sleeping longer at night. About 7 hours on a very good day. Usually goes down at 8:00pm and wakes at 1-2:00am, sometimes 3am. However, when Chris is here she's up and down a lot, and Chris will hold and rock her for hours. She has him tied around her little finger already.
She is growing fast! I think she may grow out of newborn this month. Just wanted to share a few pics! Life is crazy, busy, and exhausting, and exciting.
I new I would be horrible at keeping up on this.
I just wanted to share some pictures from our baby shower on Saturday. (scroll down) It was given to us by Chris and April Free who are like family to us out here. Our guests were all from the Falkville Police Dept.
We received some really great gifts! We definately will use everything that was given to us and feel blessed to have such great support. The Free family, the mayor of Falkville, and a couple ladies that work at town hall pitched in together and got us a new Crib!!!
I just wanted to share some pictures from our baby shower on Saturday. (scroll down) It was given to us by Chris and April Free who are like family to us out here. Our guests were all from the Falkville Police Dept.
We received some really great gifts! We definately will use everything that was given to us and feel blessed to have such great support. The Free family, the mayor of Falkville, and a couple ladies that work at town hall pitched in together and got us a new Crib!!!
Happy Mother's Day Week
Happy Mother's Day week to all the mothers out there. I'll soon be joining the club.
I've had more and more people ask about the pregnancy so I think I'll address it today.
My body loves being pregnant. It's corrected a lot of issues that I've dealt with over the years. I've heard over and over that I was lucky not to have morning sickness. I think of it this way... I think God knew I needed some time off from throwing up and feeling horrible. I haven't had to deal with any of that since being pregnant, and I'm certainly hoping it doesn't come back after I give birth! Of course I was tired during the 1st trimester, and during the 2nd trimester I felt like I could run a marathon, I've never felt better. I'm just into my 3rd a few weeks and still feel pretty good. I think I'll sum it up like this...
Things I love about being pregnant...
Finally- having a big belly is beautiful.
I feel better than I have over the last few years.
I always have the excuse, "I can't lift that I'm pregnant"
Taking an afternoon nap is ok.
Things I don't love so much about being pregnant...
Get out of my way I gotta pee!
Do I look like Buddha to you? Quit rubbing my belly!
Questions and advice are ok to a point, and then not so much.
Do you smell that?
Chris and I are so excited for our baby girl. We have been told countless times that it would be nearly impossible to get pregnant, so every day I learn to enjoy something new about being pregnant and am enjoying my time.
I have to give Congratulations to Monica and Sonny! Beginning a new foundation for disabled children with Mona Vie. Over 100+ documented cases from physicians and families that this juice has reduced medical bills by helping these children with issues ranging from respiratory to neurological recovery and will now be covered by medicaid in the state of Florida!!! I admire Monica's constant fight for her son from the day he was born. She knew he deserved a better life, and that no one including our legislation would tell her that he was not worth keeping. His life matters! It has made a difference in so many people's lives. Including mine- I truly believe I would never have been able to experience my pregnancy miracle if they hadn't reached out to me. Congratulations and good luck!
I've had more and more people ask about the pregnancy so I think I'll address it today.
My body loves being pregnant. It's corrected a lot of issues that I've dealt with over the years. I've heard over and over that I was lucky not to have morning sickness. I think of it this way... I think God knew I needed some time off from throwing up and feeling horrible. I haven't had to deal with any of that since being pregnant, and I'm certainly hoping it doesn't come back after I give birth! Of course I was tired during the 1st trimester, and during the 2nd trimester I felt like I could run a marathon, I've never felt better. I'm just into my 3rd a few weeks and still feel pretty good. I think I'll sum it up like this...
Things I love about being pregnant...
Finally- having a big belly is beautiful.
I feel better than I have over the last few years.
I always have the excuse, "I can't lift that I'm pregnant"
Taking an afternoon nap is ok.
Things I don't love so much about being pregnant...
Get out of my way I gotta pee!
Do I look like Buddha to you? Quit rubbing my belly!
Questions and advice are ok to a point, and then not so much.
Do you smell that?
Chris and I are so excited for our baby girl. We have been told countless times that it would be nearly impossible to get pregnant, so every day I learn to enjoy something new about being pregnant and am enjoying my time.
I have to give Congratulations to Monica and Sonny! Beginning a new foundation for disabled children with Mona Vie. Over 100+ documented cases from physicians and families that this juice has reduced medical bills by helping these children with issues ranging from respiratory to neurological recovery and will now be covered by medicaid in the state of Florida!!! I admire Monica's constant fight for her son from the day he was born. She knew he deserved a better life, and that no one including our legislation would tell her that he was not worth keeping. His life matters! It has made a difference in so many people's lives. Including mine- I truly believe I would never have been able to experience my pregnancy miracle if they hadn't reached out to me. Congratulations and good luck!
Happy Birthday to me today! 28 years- seems like time flies by and yet stands still. Chris is gone to an EMS conference today in Florida. Yeah- gotta hate the paid trip to a condo at the beach. Too bad I couldn't go with him. I had to take Saint to the Vet today and deplete our savings account for absolutely no information. I almost just asked how much pink juice cost, but I just love the stinker too much.
We had a new couple from the ward over for dinner last night. They moved in just around the corner from us, so now they think we are their new best friends. Which is fine- but have you ever heard the expression too much too fast?! They are a sweet couple and am glad to have had a reason to have visitors.
My birthday plans for today? I'm being taken to lunch by some of the girls/ladies? in our ward that live here in town. Most of them are close to my age so we have alot in common, and they have been great in giving me help to get ready for baby. I also have some shopping planned for today. I'm not buying for baby today, just me. Other than that, I think I'll be at home eating some leftover birthday cake.
We had a new couple from the ward over for dinner last night. They moved in just around the corner from us, so now they think we are their new best friends. Which is fine- but have you ever heard the expression too much too fast?! They are a sweet couple and am glad to have had a reason to have visitors.
My birthday plans for today? I'm being taken to lunch by some of the girls/ladies? in our ward that live here in town. Most of them are close to my age so we have alot in common, and they have been great in giving me help to get ready for baby. I also have some shopping planned for today. I'm not buying for baby today, just me. Other than that, I think I'll be at home eating some leftover birthday cake.
Hi Everyone!
I have decided it's time to fast forward with technology and start our own blog. I can't promise it will always be up to date, but we thought it would be helpful in keeping everyone informed about us especially with our baby girl on the way.
My 10 year high school reunion is this August, of course I won't be able to attend I'll have something a little more important to take care of. It's hard to believe it has been 10 years since high school. I've accomplished a lot I suppose, got through 4 1/2 years of college, got married, moved across the country from everyone and everything I have ever known, worked for a few years at a job I loved until recently, and now am expecting a baby. Life moves on and for feeling so slow at the time, incredibly fast.
Chris is busy working 2 jobs, while I am at home now, taking care of the dog and I suppose preparing for baby girl. Some days are harder than others and I never thought I would ever leave my career, especially this soon.
Our new ward in Decatur has been great, and for the first time since we've been married I think Chris is finally looking forward to participating in church and me too! The people here have been so welcoming to us and are the opposite of the hypocritcal, judgmental members of our old ward. (Most went to BYU if that explains any of it) If only those engineers and rocket scientists knew what Chris sees on a daily basis with his job maybe they would be a little more open minded. Chris was being eaten up by a case he was working on recently and finally broke down and told me about it, I was literally sick to my stomach and can't seem to get it out of my mind, and I didn't have to see the details! Of course we can't tell anyone the details of this case until this person is thrown in jail!!!
Anyway, we are getting closer to the due date (Aug 2) and I am more frightened by the day. As for her name we will keep that a surprise until her birthday. Why? Because frankly it's a decision for Chris and me. Not the rest of the world and I'm sick of everyone's opinion and comments. We have been very open about the rest of the pregnancy and this we would like to keep to ourselves.
My 10 year high school reunion is this August, of course I won't be able to attend I'll have something a little more important to take care of. It's hard to believe it has been 10 years since high school. I've accomplished a lot I suppose, got through 4 1/2 years of college, got married, moved across the country from everyone and everything I have ever known, worked for a few years at a job I loved until recently, and now am expecting a baby. Life moves on and for feeling so slow at the time, incredibly fast.
Chris is busy working 2 jobs, while I am at home now, taking care of the dog and I suppose preparing for baby girl. Some days are harder than others and I never thought I would ever leave my career, especially this soon.
Our new ward in Decatur has been great, and for the first time since we've been married I think Chris is finally looking forward to participating in church and me too! The people here have been so welcoming to us and are the opposite of the hypocritcal, judgmental members of our old ward. (Most went to BYU if that explains any of it) If only those engineers and rocket scientists knew what Chris sees on a daily basis with his job maybe they would be a little more open minded. Chris was being eaten up by a case he was working on recently and finally broke down and told me about it, I was literally sick to my stomach and can't seem to get it out of my mind, and I didn't have to see the details! Of course we can't tell anyone the details of this case until this person is thrown in jail!!!
Anyway, we are getting closer to the due date (Aug 2) and I am more frightened by the day. As for her name we will keep that a surprise until her birthday. Why? Because frankly it's a decision for Chris and me. Not the rest of the world and I'm sick of everyone's opinion and comments. We have been very open about the rest of the pregnancy and this we would like to keep to ourselves.
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