Scott Family

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2010-12-15T18:37:00.002-06:00

I love wrapping Christmas gifts! I am one of those that attaches ornaments and loads of ribbons to every present.
I found the cutest animal print gifts for Hailey's teachers and I couldn't very well just throw it into the nearest Christmas bag and be done with it. No...I had to make a matching bag for each teacher, AND I found matching tissue paper at Hobby Lobby. Is it red and green and spewing traditional Christmas? NO! But it is Dang Cute! Thought I'd share. The gift is a set of Body Wash, Shower Gel, and Lotion (all banded in animal print) A Zebra print nail care kit in the shape of a flip flop and a body mit in matching animal print all from Pier 1, Oh I love that store too!

More Quiet Book

2010-12-10T20:24:00.005-06:00

Here are some more of the quiet book pages I have made.
Camping page. IT LIGHTS UP!!!

And inside is a friendly BEAR!

Go Fish! The fish are attached with magnets so you can actually fish!

On the Farm. The farm building is an "I spy" bag that can be removed to play with.
The star has a list of all the animals (farm animals of course) to find.

Matching colors with Yo Gabba Gabba! The Gabba friends are also finger puppets.

Potato Head. Parts for Mr or Mrs.

The mailbox. The flag moves up and down.

And even gets Christmas cards!

Hailey's Christmas Program

2010-12-08T08:13:00.005-06:00

Hailey was in her first Christmas Program last night. It was absolutely adorable! I posted a clip of her class singing the clippity clop song. What is sweeter for Christmas than Children singing?

Libby Sue, Brady, & Hailey

Bradley & Hailey

TuTu Cute

2010-10-29T13:44:00.004-05:00

During Depot Days street festival, the thing to sell in boutiques this year are handmade tutu's. Of course being the thrifty person I am, I couldn't pay $25 for something I could easily make for under $10. So I got busy, I made one for Hailey's friend at preschool's birthday, and one to go with Hailey's halloween outfit. Let me know what you think of them!

Back of the tutu made for Hailey's friend

Front of the tutu

Hailey loved her halloween tutu! Her halloween costume makes her break out in hives, so she wore this instead of her costume to preschool today.

2010-10-21T13:39:00.001-05:00

A picture slideshow by Smilebox

Quiet Book

2010-10-14T12:39:00.004-05:00

I have had a lot of people interested in seeing the quiet book I've been working on. I have taken a break this past week while my fingers heal from the many hot glue burns. I have 5 pages finished (mostly) including the middle 2 page spread.
The firetruck and ambulance are wood and attached with velcro so they can be easily taken off to "drive" on the streets.

The garage of the firestation lifts to reveal the firetruck.

I haven't found a shoe lace for "lacing and tying" the football. Roll Tide!

5 little monkeys swinging from a tree.... each monkey and the alligator is attached with a snap.

We are trying to help teach Hailey good teeth hygiene...the toothbrush and toothpaste are attached with velcro. The floss container is glued on, but the "floss" ribbon unravels so you can floss the teeth, that are attached with snaps.

There is more to come....

Beauty Queen

2010-09-14T19:17:00.007-05:00

I swore I would NEVER put Hailey in a pageant...but somehow I got talked into it and signed her up for our local Depot Days Pageant. I figure at least at this age it won't effect her self-esteem drastically win or lose. As it turns out..she didn't win, and that is OK with all of us. She loved spinning in her dress and would tell everyone she was a princess...and she is. Somewhere Chris has some video of this, but I don't know if it's worth much. Our neighbor took these pics for us, they aren't really great, but since I had to walk with Hailey...it's all I have. Isn't she the prettiest princess????

Hailey

2010-09-02T14:02:00.010-05:00

My friend, A. Mayfield took these amazing 2 year old pictures of Hailey. I wish I could freeze her in time like this...

PANAMA CITY BEACH!

2010-08-07T15:50:00.009-05:00

I am not the kind of person that really loves surprises. I don't know why, but I just like a little bit of notice before being thrown into certain situations. Thankfully, I have married a man that understands this. Chris told me 2 weeks ago that he arranged for us to have a 3 day minivacation at Panama City Beach (PCB), although 2 of those days were actually driving. So-yay! A surprise trip to the beach with 2 weeks notice-gotta love it!

Hailey stayed with my sister and brother in-laws and got to play with her cousin Evan and Tuesday we drove...

Chris, proving he is all man...didn't look up directions first. Just plugged in the GPS. Which was fine for the first 2 hours on highway to Montgomerey, but then it took us on a 2 lane road through a whole lot of nothing...through a no town called Pintlala and Sweet Gum Head...for 3 1/2 hours!!! There was no place for gas, no place to use the bathroom, no place to get out and stretch. Let me tell you just how awesome that was! However, at about my breaking point (that is I wanted to throw the GPS out of the window, and look at a map!) We came into a small town that-yes was close to where we were going.

5 hours of driving we rolled into PCB! It was beautiful! This was my first trip to a beach-EVER!

We stayed at Edgewater Condo's, had an amazing view of the water, but tacky furnishings and flat hospital sheets that only 1/2 covered the bed.

We had dinner at Jimmy Buffet's Margaritaville, where the man on stilts made me a balloon giraffe. Then we crashed back at the condo for the night.

The next morning we went to a diner for breakfast, then planned the entire day to do nothing but hang on the beach.

After about an hour on the beach we realized we were not prepared enough to spend the day on the beach-so we made a run to Walmart for water, sunglasses, etc. Then it was time for lunch, but when we came out from lunch...it was thundering, lightening, and raining!!!!! Great! Finally all geared up for the beach and the sun went away! I was so upset! There was no way we drove all the way to the beach so I could go home as white as I came! Oh well! Guess you can't control the weather. But we went and sat on the beach anyway while it was barely sprinkling and watched the dolphins jump in the water.
To top off our good luck, we decided to wash clothes before we went back. Well, Chris put in a new beach towel with our whites...and turned EVERYTHING PINK!!! I'm not talking light pink that will wash out either-awesome!

Because of our crazy drive down we decided to take a different way home. One with more places to stop-through big towns on a 4 lane Highway. Well, it added 2 hours to our drive time! We were so exhausted by the time we got home, but we had so much fun and I am so glad I finally got to see a beautiful beach! We definately want to head back soon, only with a little more time in the future.

No Pictures

2010-07-19T16:32:00.003-05:00

If you have come to this site looking for pictures of our family...well don't expect any new ones anytime soon. I have lost my camera. I had it the other night after a quick post on fb of my crafty diaper cake...then haven't been able to find it since. I have my suspicions that Hailey has taken it off into a dark corner somewhere. But after turning the house upside down, I still don't know where it could be. I am hoping that I can convince Chris that I really NEED a $400.00 camera to take great pictures with. However, I have a feeling that won't go over well and that I will end up with a FUJI disposable. If you feel sorry for me you can donate to my cause ;) Christmas will be here in 11 paychecks!

Echo

2010-07-17T20:40:00.003-05:00

I think everyone every once in a while should hear how they sound to others...maybe it would wake some people up and become a little bit nicer. Of course not everyone cares the way I do. My echo comes in the form of my 2 year old. Over the last couple days her fits have included "No! I said No! I SAID NO! SAID NO! SAID NO! I couldn't figure out where that phrase came from, until I heard myself saying it yesterday..."No Hailey, I said No! Mommy said No! No! Don't touch! Mommy said don't touch!" Suddenly I was very aware of how horrible it sounded -having had it repeated back to me in the same manner.
My echo...teaching me my manners too.

Hailey Turns 2 !!!!!

2010-07-09T15:37:00.004-05:00

Free photo slideshow generated with Smilebox

Hailey turned two June 30. The weekend before we met up with some of the family in Birmingham to go to the zoo. We had such a great time!!! Hailey loved seeing the animals, playing in the children's zoo, and of course THE TRAIN!!!!
On her actual birthday, Hailey and I had swimming lessons that morning, then invited some of her little friends over for lunch. This past year seemed to fly by! She is so active and busy now, not to mention talking up a storm! I have loved watching her grow and become more of a little person. Can't wait to see what her future brings!

I found it!!!

2010-07-06T14:31:00.002-05:00

That's right people! I have finally found my motivation! It was hidden under a big steaming pile of crap! And just when you think life is too hard...something happens that makes you count your blessings, suck it up, and move on. This month there have been many of those count your blessing moments...the first big one is that our friend was accidentally shot in the foot and now has a below the knee amputation scheduled for Thursday... the second is that my sister-in-law's step son was hit by an oncoming car head on (on the interstate) and is in critical care. How could I not count my blessings that I have a wonderful family, and although my health is not as good as I want it to be, I have 2 legs, and can breathe air on my own...so I am starting my running program! Holy Crap I hate to run! However, I have always wanted to run a 5K and hope to by next spring. I have already signed up for a 1mile (I know all you runners are laughing at me) race later this year. Go me!

30 packets of ketchup!

2010-01-13T03:22:00.005-06:00

This post is my tribute to a scene in Adam Sandler's movie Big Daddy. Ok-not really, but there is a lot of scary similarity. Remember the part where the kid wears what he wants and names himself Frankenstein? Anyway, at lunch one day he is asked what he wants to eat and he yells 30 packets of ketchup! At the time I thought that to be completely disgusting and hilarious...today it is still hilarious but because it has become true! I thought I'd show you Hailey's progression at lunch today.

At first, Hailey dips her chicken politely...

Then she decides to cut out the "extras" and digs her hand into the ketchup and scoops it into her mouth. Who needs to put ketchup on food?

It was gooooood too!

Hey Hailey! What's for lunch???
30 packets of ketchup!

3 little words...

2009-12-08T12:51:00.002-06:00

You know those days where half way through - you knew you should have just stayed in bed like you wanted to? Well, today is definitely one of them. Maybe it's the rain and cold, but I really wanted to crawl in bed for movies and hot chocolate. Instead, I ventured to Wally World for a few last minute things for our Christmas weekend before leaving for Utah. Hailey and I were there for about an hour and a half, and when I finally got to the check out a lady 2 aisles over tried to get my attention. "Pssst, look down!" I totally figured it would be a disaster with Hailey, but no. Again she pointed to me "look on your leg". In my hurry to get dressed, I had forgotten to take the size sticker off my pants. That's right. I had just announced to everyone in walmart my large size for an hour and a half and no one had said anything until the very end! Needless to say, I tried to laugh it off-it happens, but on a day like today-it was pretty embarrassing. Hailey on the way out, dumped her tub of teddy grahams all over the floor, so the door attendant got a broom and watched me while I had to sweep up the mess, all the while Hailey was screetching for "Teddies!"
I was so ready to get home, feed Hailey and get her down for a nap-mainly so I could take one myself. I knew my patience was getting thin when she threw everything I offered her for lunch ended up on the floor. Finally, I found something she was content to eat and a few minutes later as I was on my last thread and preparing for the horrifying scream that follows her meal, I heard......
"Mommy... All done" A phrase I have been trying to teach her for the past week to use instead of screaming. It was quite possibly the sweetest phrase I had ever heard, and definitely changed my sour attitude. What an angel, I think she knows when I'm on the brink and not to push. Those 3 words made my whole day.

Thanksgiving pics

2009-12-05T11:24:00.005-06:00

(2008)
We had Thanksgiving dinner with Chris at the fire station this year. It's crazy how fast Hailey has grown in a year. We have measured her by the giant firetruck tires at Chris' work.
(2009)

Chocolate. It's definitely a girl thing.

2009-11-14T08:49:00.004-06:00

I gave Hailey her first little taste of chocolate milk...well I think the picture speaks for itself, I tried to take the cup back and she went into gaurding position! No way I was taking the chocolate from her! Then it started... she saw me put the cup into the dishwasher, and for the next 30 minutes she was banging on the dishwasher yelling and crying "more" and "pleeease!" Wow-this girl's chocolate obsession runs deep.

A day on the farm

2009-11-07T14:43:00.004-06:00

One of the perks of being in the country is having so many farms around. Today we went to the Backyard Barnyard Petting Zoo down the road a ways in Danville. It was probably one of the most fun things we have done together! Hailey fell in love with the animals. No really-she tried to kiss the goats, the duck, and yes even the pig.
She had no problem petting and feeding them and I think scared the duck half to death chasing it around!

They took us on a hayride to see the "big" animals, and at first Hailey sat with her daddy, but not for long. We had to hold her in as she was jumping out of the wagon trying to wave to the horses, and loved feeling the breeze on her face. What a great day-and it was a beautiful, warm, fall day too.

Fall Day

2009-11-05T17:54:00.003-06:00

We had such a beautiful fall day today. Hailey and I spent most of the morning outside playing in the leaves. I am not looking forward to cold cold days and trying to entertain her inside all day!

Happy Halloween!

2009-11-02T13:00:00.003-06:00

We had a great Halloween. Hailey was such a cute tinkerbell. We stopped by a few friends houses to trick or treat then handed out candy the rest of the night. Nothing special, but we had a great night.

"The Chicken"

2009-10-30T13:10:00.004-05:00

Hailey is learning her farm animals. Her favorite is the chicken and she runs around flapping and saying "bawk, bawk!" Of course, she doesn't do it on cue for the camera, but I was lucky enough yesterday to catch a quick clip of it, it's so adorable.
Have a happy halloween!

100 Years Apart...

2009-07-20T10:46:00.003-05:00

We took a trip to Livingston this weekend. While we were there Chris' dad brought his grandparents up to see Hailey. Paw Paw will be 101 years old next month, and he is still going strong! Granny is just behind him at 90, and they loved playing with Hailey.
I added this short video clip of them playing-it is so sweet.

One year and counting...

2009-07-17T12:53:00.004-05:00

Hailey-Day 1 - July 1st 2008, Crestwood NICU

Hailey-1 year!- June 30th, 2009

I saw a brand new baby at the store today. The poor mother obviously still recovering, riding in a motorized cart, while grandma held the new baby. I suddenly had this overwhelming sentimental feeling for Hailey, so I apologize, but this is going to be pretty sappy. I can't believe that we were there just one year ago. It is amazing at how much Hailey has grown in such a short amount of time. I took a picture of her asleep before getting her up on her birthday- sleeping just as she has since she was born. Only now she is a big girl! Today taking a sippy cup on her own like a pro!

Not only has Hailey grown-but I have to. Responsibility and unselfishness are now words in my vocabulary and in my behavior.

I've been trying to pack up bottles, since we are in full force sippy cup training, I laugh at how little I knew about them getting into this! I had no idea there were different types of bottles and nipples and that I needed to try a bunch to see what Hailey would take to. But the one thing I learned the most about-formula! I wish someone would have told me how to try new formulas and what might work the best for a cranky baby and that it is Okay to bottle feed with formula! Leaving the hospital we were told to absolutely do not give her a bottle! (Although she had been bottle fed in the NICU for a week!) It would have saved us a lot of uncontrollable crying. And it may sound simple but the thing I have learned most... not to listen to other people's bad advice against my own intuition!

I almost can't remember family life without her and I have loved watching all of her new explorations that happen everyday! We have made it a year and we celebrated BIG! I've heard a lot that she wouldn't remember her first birthday party-yes, I know that. But there were days I wasn't sure we would ever get here, and I remember. I remember multiple doctors telling me that it would be almost impossible to get pregnant without help-if at all. I remember being so miserable all the time but telling myself it would be worth it if I could get pregnant. I remember being so scared as my baby was rushed to NICU after an urgent c-section. I remember the first time I saw her, I couldn't hug or hold her, I could only touch her little pinky for a few minutes while she struggled to breathe. I remember staying up every night with her for months while she cried uncontrollably, walking the one short hall in our house-over and over, worried sick because there was nothing I could do to make her feel better and sleep well. I remember all of the days with little or no help, sleep deprived and emotional.

But occasionally... I remember her falling asleep on my chest or in my arms, it was the only time she would smile for the first few months. I remember being so proud of her as she found her toes, learned to crawl, and took off walking! I am proud of her today drinking from a sippy cup like a big girl... But she still talks to angels, and it is a reminder of how perfect she is and how lucky I am to have her. So here's to us and our first year as a family!!!!

Ducks, Doc, Shots, & Spots!

2009-07-11T16:09:00.002-05:00

The past few weeks have been a whirlwind! We celbrated Hailey's first birthday on June 27th so that we could accomodate family, although she actually turned one on June 30th. We had a rubber ducky themed party including a ducky-bath tub cake and a ducky pinata! We had a lot of fun and it wore Hailey out completely!
This past week she had her 12 month check up appointment. She weighs 20 lbs 3 oz and is no longer in preemie measurements! She is well within range of "norm"-whatever that is. No more 5th percentile for this girl! According to the Denver Developmental scale she has learned all of her 12 and 15 month skills and a few 18 month ones too-Now if only she would take a freaking sippy cup!!!!!!
Also at this visit she had a few more shots-including the chicken pox vacc that has given her spots all over her! Doc said they aren't contagious, but they sure don't look comfortable! Thank goodness for Aveeno Colloidal Oatmeal bath soak!

30 + 1! Happy Birthday Chris!

2009-06-23T14:35:00.005-05:00

Chris turned 31 yesterday! He somehow had the day off, but we didn't do much during the first part of the day. Last night I invited some friends over for cake and ice-cream to surprise him. I made him a fire truck cake with working lights too! His big gift is a brand new Ruger .380 (gun) from myself and the family. He was so excited about it-so thank you to all of you who pitched in!

Hailey took her first steps alone today!

2009-06-08T12:22:00.004-05:00

This girl has been trying and trying to get the courage to go off on her own. Today she has finally started taking steps on her own! Oh-boy I thought keeping up with her now was a challenge! Thought I'd show you what she's been up to.

Helping with laundry

She ate her first cookie and smeared the rest.

Hurricane Hailey strikes again!

Scrapbookgoldmine.com-it's finally mine!

2009-05-18T15:56:00.004-05:00

MY WEBSTORE IS FINALLY ONLINE!!!!

www. scrapbookgoldmine.com

That's right-after a few months of prepping, my scrapbook store is finally online. Right now it's full of clear stamps and the new cricut expression mostly, but I'll add more as I can find suppliers.

SO SPREAD THE WORD! Tell all your friends and anyone who likes to stamp and be crafty to check it out! I'll send out coupons soon- so have everyone you know go to the site and enter their email address.

www.scrapbookgoldmine.com

Our Saint

2009-05-08T17:44:00.000-05:00

Well-it's been a long emotional day for us. We put Saint down this morning and have spent the day burying him. Chris' brother and his wife let us find a beautiful spot for him on their property, and poor Chris is awful tired from having to dig a very big hole. Saint has been such a great dog and wonderful friend to us. We love him and I know some people think it's cheesy to be so torn up over a pet dying- but he really was more than a pet, he was family and we have loved having him in our lives. I've included some pictures that we love of Saint, and of his last day and his beautiful resting place (for all you mormons-it kinda looks like the sacred grove-don't you think?)

Into Everything!

2009-04-21T15:35:00.000-05:00

I think I've already mentioned this, but Hailey really is into everything! She mastered crawling and pulls herself all the way up by herself and now wants to walk! That might take some time to learn, thank goodness. We tried to baby proof her room (try being the key word here), but it just amazes me how she can find even the smallest piece of lint to chew on. We took everything off the bottom shelf of her changing table, and today, she decided to crawl onto the bottom shelf to play. We put a gate in her doorway and now her room is referred to as "baby jail."

Easter

2009-04-15T13:12:00.000-05:00

This week Hailey has mastered crawling and decided she is ready to pull up on everything! Last week she had to go back to all bottles and some pedialyte because her belly was having some major troubles. But-starting yesterday we have slowly started introducing some cereal back into her diet-again. Maybe one day her belly will catch up with the rest of her.
Chris had to work on his 24 hr shift on Sunday-so Hailey and I had the day to ourselves. She looked so cute in her new spring dress, and we took dinner to the fire station that night.
I used a new recipe for ham and it was awesome! I'm not a big fan of holiday rubbery, can't cut through it with a plastic knife, hams. But I found this on allrecipes.com and everyone loved it.
Here's the recipe:
Glazed Ham

Ingredients:
1 (8 lb) bone-in shank ham 2 TBSP liquid smoke flavoring
4 cups water, or as needed 2 TBSP Worcestershire sauce
1/2 c. honey 1 pinch ground cloves
1/2 c. brown sugar

Directions:
Preheat the oven to 275 degrees F. Place ham in a roasting pan. Pour in water to a 2 inch depth. Cover with a tight fitting lid.

Bake for 6 to 8 hours in the preheated oven (all day or all night). Remove from the oven, pour off drippings and reserve. Debone ham, removing any excess fat as well, and return to the roasting pan.

Skim fat from the top of the drippings, and discard. In a small bowl, mix one-cup of the drippings with honey, brown sugar, liquid smoke, worcestershire sauce and cloves. Pour this over ham, cover and return to the oven.

Bake for another 30 to 40 minutes in the preheated oven. Let stand for 10 minutes before serving.

I cheated a little bit. I bought a pre-cooked, pre-smoked, pre-sliced, 8 lb ham on sale and had it in the freezer. I thawed it in the fridge for 2 days. Then I put it in a roasting pan with about an inch of water and baked for 1 1/2 hours at 250 degrees tightly covered with heavy foil. Then I poured off the drippings, keeping one cup, and made the glaze as directed (it's pretty runny, and I didn't add cloves for my preference) Then I baked it for another 45 minutes - hour and it was done!

All the guys at the station loved it and I even thought it was pretty good, considering I'm not a big fan of ham. This is so easy and next time you have to do the holiday ham I suggest you try this. According to others who made this-if you make this from a raw shank ham it turns out more like bbq- it just falls apart. Mine was a pre-cooked ham and it fell right off the bone the way I cooked it too.

Hope you all had a wonderful Easter Sunday, I added a few pics of Hailey in her spring dress, and because there was no one to take a family photo of us- I snapped a pic of Hailey and me with one hand-not great but kind of funny.

Tornado Season!

2009-04-10T15:47:00.000-05:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BnSHkgT-uKU

Seriously click the above link and watch this, it's only less than a minute-this is the storm that went over us earlier in the day that kept Hailey and I in the bathroom for a while. Thankfully it wasn't quite that strong yet. We also had 2 tornadoes close to us and a lot of damage around here! I have never seen golf ball size hail before today-some people reported softball size hail! I don't know why Chris always seems to work the days there is crazy bad weather. There are always idiots out in the middle of it trying to watch, rather than trying to be safe keeping the police and fireman super busy.
Anyway that's our excitement. No really-have you ever tried to keep a 9 month old busy while trying to hunker down in a bath tub? Not so easy.

If you want to see some sweet pictures you can go to www.whnt.com (our local news) click on April 10 photos.

Who needs socks?

2009-04-04T18:47:00.000-05:00

Hailey always starts the day with two socks on- but rarely makes it past lunch with even one on. We have lost more socks in stores and find them in the car on a regular basis. Today Hailey found a new use for them (since they aren't supposed to be on her feet). They make great teethers! What a weirdo! Definitely her daddy's girl.

Hailey had her 9 month check up yesterday. Dr. J was impressed that she hasn't had any "sick" visits between her check up appointments- we have been lucky that way. There weren't any shots at this appt thank goodness- but I was warned that her 12 month appointment is full of shots and finger pricks. Sounds like her daddy needs to go to that one! Hailey weighs 17 lbs 12 oz and has made it to the 14th percentile in weight and 40th percentile in height. She is steadily growing and getting more active -and loud- by the day!

It Finally Happened....

2009-03-27T09:45:00.000-05:00

Yep- I had to buy a mama bag. I don't like to carry our big LLBean diaper bag into the stores, but I have had to run out to the car too many times before I'm done shopping to get it. So I finally broke down-turned in my little clutch bag for a bag with enough room for my stuff and Hailey's "emergency" kit (which is not small). So now I'm prepared and we look like a band of gypsies everywhere we go. I guess that comes with the territory.

2009-03-25T11:10:00.000-05:00

Hailey has 3 teeth popping through right now-so she gets super grumpy at times. I don't care what people (some dr's) say she gets a fever from teething and yes, tylenol helps. She's suddenly hit a growth spurt and I think caught up to the "norm". She went from 3-6 month clothes to 12 months in a month! Now I have to go find a new car seat-what a pain in the butt! You never really know which one will actually work properly if you get in a wreck. Anyone have any suggestions? Alright- I know I update on Hailey probably more than most of you would like, but she's my world right now. I seriously need some adult interaction!

Only 25 days until March for Babies! Hopefully the weather will be good, and Hailey will cooperate in her stroller. Thanks to all of you have donated something! If you want to donate you can go to my website www.marchforbabies.org/4_Hailey.

I don't have a good redneck story today, but let me tell you about this...
One of Chris' days off we were cleaning out the garage. We had Hailey out in her sit and spin thing until she got too tired to handle it. So I took her in for a nap.. well since it was empty and we had so much junk out in the driveway we seriously had ten people stop and ask if we
A. were having a garage sale
B. throwing out the exersaucer, if so they want it
C. Is there going to be anything else for sale
D. How much for the chair (the folding chair I was sitting in) and the baby stuff (the only baby stuff was the exersaucer.
I guess I would not be brave enough to stop at someone's house and ask how much for the junk out front. I didn't realize there was such a demand for junk for sale. I guess when we do have a garage sale we should do pretty good.
I love the redneck life! Not.
Yes, we are still thriving in the Utah win over Alabama. Go Utes!

2009-03-17T01:37:00.001-05:00

Happy St. Patrick's Day!!!
I hope you are all wearing your green-or getting a great BIG pinch! In celebration of the holiday I have added a little green to today's picture.
Hailey (besides hair) is getting teeth! Although so far I think teething crankiness is by far so much easier to deal with than 24 hour colic. Not to say that it is easy by any means. Chris has finally taken a few days off here and there and today he is at home! I wish we could say we are going to do something fun and great, but I think today's project is cleaning the garage and pest control.Oh- ha ha- Here's a little redneck story (sorry no pictures):
We went to a restaurant here in town the other night and had to wait a few minutes for them to clean the table. Anyway, in walks this man about 280 lbs in pretty snug overalls that barely held in the beer belly, the sleeves cut off his t shirt so you could see the mighty arm pit hairs flying in the breeze, and yes I think he had a tooth. I never really knew people dressed this way in public until I moved here and sometimes it just makes me laugh. Another example: dining at Pappy's Pig Pit-ummmm doesn't that sound appetizing? All I could think of when I saw that sign is the farmer with arm pit hair hangin out for the world to acknowledge. I'll tell you this... it's always the pits that have the best BBQ! LOL I'm such a city girl!
Have a wonderful day y'all!

Hair!!!!

2009-03-07T19:30:00.000-06:00

That's right-it's only taken 8 months but this baby does have hair!!! Not really enough to do anything with, but I always get her one little piece on top to spike during bath time.

Try this one...

2009-03-03T16:28:00.001-06:00

First, remember you can donate to March of Dimes March for Babies on my webpage
http://www.marchforbabies.org/4_Hailey my walk event is April 18th!

I recently emailed a few friends and family for some new recipes. I have had some interest in what I received, so I thought I would start sharing some that we have tried.

This recipe I have had for a long time, but I think the first and last time I made it was in 2002 for my brother and sister-in-law after they had their first child. So I gave it a whirl last night-and it was awesome! Even Chris (the most picky eater ever!) really liked it. It's a pretty rich sauce so a little goes a long way. But this is a great restraunt style recipe for a fraction of the cost of going to a restraunt. This also goes great with New York- The Original Garlic Bread Sticks found in the freezer section at Walmart. I'll post some low cal/low fat ones at some time, but since I recently rediscovered this-thought I'd share.

Four cheese chicken rolls
Serves: 4

Ingredients:
1 (10 oz) package frozen chopped spinach, thawed
3 TBSP dry onion soup mix
1/2 c. ricotta cheese ( I use reduced fat or 2% milk cheeses)
1/2 c. crumbled feta cheese
4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts (4 oz each)
1/4 lb mozzarella cheese, cut into 4 sticks ( I use string cheese sticks cut in half)
1 (1.3 oz) package Alfredo or white sauce mix ( I use pre-made Alfredo sauce in a jar)
1/2 c. grated Romano cheese
8 oz cooked fettucine noodles

Directions:
1. Preheat oven to 375 F. Squeeze spinach dry. Combine spinach, soup mix, ricotta, and feta in a medium bowl. Pound each piece of chicken to 1/4 inch thickness with a meat mallet. (I buy thin cut chicken breast cutlets).

2. Spread 1 TBSP spinach mixture on chicken; Reserve remaining spinach mixture. Place a mozzarella stick in center of filling.

3. Roll chicken to enclose filling; secure bundles with a toothpick. Arrange rolls in a small baking dish. Bake for 20 minutes.

4. Meanwhile, prepare sauce according to package directions. (I just warm 3/4 of a jar of pre-made Alfredo sauce. You could also substitue a can of cream of mushroom soup)
Stir in reserved spinach mixture. Pour sauce over chicken. Top with Romano cheese.
Bake 15 minutes longer or until chicken is thoroughly cooked through.
Serve over hot cooked pasta.

March for Babies.... April 18th!

2009-02-27T10:38:00.001-06:00

I have banded together with a special team of people who care about the health of America's babies to raise money and participate in the March of Dimes March for Babies. I am asking you to join our fundraising efforts today by sponsoring my event.
Contributing online is fast, easy, and secure. You can donate directly from my personal webpage with a credit/debit card or PayPal. If you prefer, I can also accept cash or check. Just click the appropriate box on my webpage.
The money we raise helps save premature and sick babies. Premature birth is the #1 cause of newborn death and the biggest threat to babies' health today, and through March for Babies, the March of Dimes is funding important research to find out why premature birth happens and what can be done to prevent it. There's nothing more important than to give every baby a healthy start in life. We need your help. Please join us in the fight against prematurity. Visit my webpage and sponsor me in the event that saves babies!

With your support, there's hope.
Thank You!
My personal webpage for donations is....
http://www.marchforbabies.org/4_Hailey
Would you like to see what March for Babies is and why I'm walking?
Click http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5P_dFDOJ47I
The March of Dimes mission is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth, and infant mortality.

On a personal note, having my own preemie opened my eyes to the dangers of an early birth. Although my baby developed quickly and for the better, the fear of those first 48 hours can never be erased from memory. I am truly grateful for the NICU nurses who truly loved Hailey and made sure she had every possible chance for recovery. March of Dimes is a great organization and I am so excited to participate, but need some support. I have a personal goal of only $100.00. Our team has a goal of $600.00. Some people have donated only $0.25 a mile-we will walk 4.3 miles that's a total of $1.10 for the event for those people. Every little bit helps!!! Thank you!!!

Sponsor Me at March for Babies!

2009-02-26T18:02:00.001-06:00

Nothing New Here

2009-02-16T16:08:00.001-06:00

Since I haven't caught up on this thing in weeks I guess I better give you all a little update...nothing new! Hailey is growing so fast and out of her clothes at record speed. I think she really will finally catch up to "normal" by one year. She weighed 14 lbs at her 6 mth check up the beg. of Jan.-finally into the 10th percentile! The past week or so she has taken to solid foods like a champ! But man-can't wait for the diaper days to be over! Her favorite places to be are in her jumper or exersaucer (?) thing, and being held by her daddy. Hmmm-for being so busy I really don't have anything interesting to say today. Well, I went to basketball homecoming at RS (where I used to be their athletic trainer) they were playing WCA (where I also worked as their athletic trainer). I learned two things... parents and athletes do miss me and did appreciate the work I did, and I have never been so sure that quiting my job to stay home was the right thing to do. (I should have known that already, but it's good to get confirmation). Well-Hailey's up and at em from a nap so that's it for now!

EEEEEEK!

2009-01-08T08:56:00.000-06:00

Here's your redneck story of the month:
You know, I thought I sure have toughened up when it comes to bugs and snakes and critters since moving here, but this is just...well...
I went to scoop out some dog food for Saint yesterday, I had just gotten my hand in the bag when I saw and felt a mouse jumping on my hand! EEEEWWWWW. Needless to say, poor Saint didn't get fed. I called Chris who said he'd take care of it when he got home. I thought he'd take the bag outside and be done with it. Chris had other ideas, he grabbed his pellet gun he just got for Christmas and took care of it-shooting the thing in the bag of food! So I figured we needed to go get a new bag of food for Saint that didn't have mouse stuff all over it, "no, I'll just scoop out the part that has blood on it and it'll be fine." Uh, no. I insisted we go get a new bag of food since the mouse had dug it's way through the entire bag.
So there it is... you know you married a redneck when you just scoop bloody mouse guts out of the food you feed your dog. Yuck!

Utes are #1 so am I...

2009-01-05T17:02:00.000-06:00

I think I am the only Ute fan around here in Alabama. The week before the Sugar Bowl I started wearing my red and got all sort of nasty comments from people I thought were my friends. The #1 remark was that Utah could NEVER compete with the SEC, because they don't play as hard... Well HAHAHAHAHAHAH!!!! That was the best game I've seen in a long time!!!! We were supposed to watch at a friends house (Big Alabama fan and trash talker) but Chris came home sick with a fever and went straight to bed without watching the game. So I sat screaming at the TV in my bedroom all alone, until I woke up Hailey-then she watched some with me.
Today I am still sporting my U sweatshirt, and this is what happened...
We went to Walmart for a few things and of course there were all sorts of little comments and looks from those people still trying to justify Alabama's LOSS!
Then walking out of the doors into the parking lot-a truck seriously almost hit us on purpose!! Good thing i had Hailey or they probably would have. We are dealing with Red Neck LOSERS!!!! Then- a car tried to run me off the road. I'd say that most of these Alabama fans are sore Losers!!!! You think they'd be used to it considering that the last 15 years haven't gone well for them.

The best part of the win is rubbing it in to all those that said Utes couldn't keep up with the SEC. No they didn't keep up-they surpassed and kicked some Bama Butt! Maybe this will wake up some of the coaches that vote for the BSC playoffs and realize that Utah-even though in the Mountain West-are better than all the Rest!!!

My poor husband not only is devestated by the loss, but totally and completely embarrased when I go out wearing my U. Oh- well. Hee hee hee

GO UTES!!!!!!

Saying goodbye to 2008!

2008-12-22T16:04:00.000-06:00

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.)

Those baby blues!

2008-11-23T10:11:00.000-06:00

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!

2008-11-14T17:31:00.000-06:00

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.

SLEEP IS FOR THE WEAK!

2008-11-06T19:57:00.000-06:00

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

2008-11-01T21:19:00.000-05:00

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.

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-30T09:34:00.000-05:00

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!

A MUST READ...

2008-10-16T12:50:00.000-05:00

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!

Everybody's an expert...

2008-10-10T11:59:00.000-05:00

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:

You Might Be A Redneck If...

2008-10-05T10:20:00.003-05:00

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...

2008-09-29T07:19:00.000-05:00

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.

No More Car Seat

2008-09-26T13:44:00.000-05:00

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!!!!

2008-09-24T11:10:00.001-05:00

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

2008-09-21T18:43:00.000-05:00

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.

2008-06-16T10:21:00.000-05:00

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!!!

Happy Mother's Day Week

2008-05-11T11:00:00.000-05:00

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!

2008-05-05T11:18:00.000-05:00

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.

Hi Everyone!

2008-05-01T11:03:00.000-05:00

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.