The Savages

Trip to New Orleans

2009-07-02T16:26:00.017-04:00

This past month, we drove the long drive from Illinois down south to New Orleans. We always go at least once a year. I desperately want the babies to know the city and learn to love it's charms. We were also there to attend Grand Assembly, which is the annual statewide meeting of the Rainbow Girls. When I was in my late teens, I had the pleasure and honor of leading this wonderful service organization. So, going back each year is always wonderful and truly like seeing family that I have known forever. This year, was especially emotional, because the babies were formally dedicated to a life of love and service to others in a beautiful ceremony.

While in New Orleans, once again, we tried to do it all in what Mike has come to call my "whirl wind tour of Louisiana." We never have enough time to see everyone, but we certainly try. Our itinerary included the Audubon Zoo, a formal banquet at Grand, the Children's Museum, then a visit to my mother's and grandmother's graves to place flowers, to Aunt Margaret's house, the baby dedication and finally back in the car to head home. Of course, we had to slip in a quick trip to the grocery store so I could load up on 20 pounds of Cajun sausage and foods for cooking back in Illinois. The babies even got to eat their first crawfish while at the store.

My sweet family at the opening banquet at Grand. They wore matching outfits with crawfish smocking and Caroline had a crawfish bow. So cute!

My sleepy little crawfish.

Look mommy, no hands! Still loving her crawfish hairbow.

Daddy heading upstairs to put babies to bed so I could attend the meeting. Oh, I love him so!

Angela Cocran, (just past Grand Worthy Advisor) and past GWA's. I love these ladies and am honored to be in their ranks.

We went to the zoo with our sweet friends Danielle and Brad and their lovely kids, Abigail and Noah. We all road the carousel which was an absolute hit with Will and Caroline.

It was H-O-T!!! 99 degrees w/ 100% humidity. Mike and I worked to keep the kids shaded and cool with cold, wet baby wipes. Caroline loved having one on her forehead.

Will has seen an elephant many times in a book, but never in person. He was in awe and loved it when they sprayed water with their trunks.

My little southern belle with her southern momma! My hat was a bargain find at Target...a little large, but completely necessary in that sun.

Our wonderful white tiger. Ahhh, sleep. Too hot to move.

Danielle and her beautiful daughter, Abigail.

My climbing fish loved the playground.

Will coming down the slide with Noah right behind.

Walking to the Children's Museum. I was so tickled when I looked at Mike pushing the double stroller surrounded by my friend Laura's 4 children. I don't think he's ever been in the middle of so many kids. He looked like a daddy duck with his little ducklings. I just love that man!

What a great picture! Four Past Grand Worthy Advisor's of LA Rainbow and our precious children. We all had a great time at the Children's Museum. I would love to do it again, and again. Can't wait to see them next year. It is going to be so sweet to see these girlfriends and their kids every year. I know that their children and mine will become friends over the years and across the miles. Kind of like cousins, growing up together. Makes my heart swell.

Playing with magnetic gears. They loved the museum and I loved the freedom of being able to say "go play, explore and touch everything!" And, it was air conditioned! Whoo hoo.

My little police man and his trusty partner.

Oh, my sweet Caroline. Back in the south, where little girls where hairbows all the time.

Will and Lilea playing engineer with the train set. They were really cute together.

Beautiful Abigail. A great big sister to Noah.

Caroline and Lilea adored playing on the climbing pit. Caroline couldn't get enough of it.

Will and Noah played very well together. They are only a month apart. They'll be buddies for a long time to come.

Crashing the cars is the most fun!

The Golden Girls! My cousins Genny and Dani, Aunt Margaret and Aunt Melanie with the babies. Mom and Grandma would be so proud!

The baby dedication. Aunt Margaret held Caroline and I held squirmy Will. I asked the Bucceri sisters, Cybble, Roxanne and Nelda to join us for the ceremony as they are like family in every way except by blood.

During the ceremony, they played the song by Martina McBride, "In My Daughter's Eyes," which of course made me bawl. I grew up being told stories of my days as baby at Rainbow events. It was very full circle to have my own children there with my aunt. I look forward to sharing these stories with my children, especially Caroline, when they are older. It was incredibly moving and special.

Will found his first Mardi Gras bead.

She was so good while waiting for the ceremony to start.

I made her a rainbow ruffle diaper cover. So, when her dress flipped up, you saw a rainbow. Everyone loved it and I know my family in heaven was smiling.

Taking steps with a little help, and one shoe.

Aunt Margaret holding Caroline, very much the same way she held me when I was a baby. Aunt Margaret was my mother's sister and always there.

Time to go. The babies enjoyed watching and waving "bye bye" to all of the cars in the hotel parking lot while Mike loaded the luggage.

Just a sampling of all of the STUFF we had to bring with us. It's getting a little easier to travel with the kids, but we still seem to bring the whole house. It was worth every minute, though. Already looking ahead to next year in Shreveport, LA!

Father's Day 09

2009-06-30T11:15:00.015-04:00

This past Father's Day was Mike's 2nd. Since Will is a little older, I let him help me decorate a cake for Daddy. The kids finger painted a rock for him to use as a paperweight. And I gave him a big hammock for the backyard. I feel like the luckiest woman in the world to be blessed with such an incredible husband and father to my children. He is the man of my dreams. Here are some sweet pictures of that special day.

His #1 Dad cake.

Will putting fruit chews on the cake (with guidance from mommy.)

Throwing on sprinkles. They were everywhere.

Gotta sample the frosting.

Ready for our surprise.

Daddy with his special paperweight.

Caroline loves those musical cards. She loves to dance along.

toddler proofing 101

2009-06-08T10:20:00.013-04:00

Mike and I got a hard, month long class in toddler proofing. After many restless nights, near misses, ice packs, and mommy tears, we finally figured out what to do with our little climbing fish. So many of you have given support and advice, we thought we would share our struggles and successes with everyone. Will and Caroline teach us so much everyday. We love them dearly and are blessed to be their parents, but oh, it's been a tough month.

There is a really adorable video of the kids at the end of this post.

It started when Will climbed out of his crib at 20 months old. So, we took off the front railing and lined the floor with pillows. Then we put him in a travel crib for naptime, which he quickly learned to climb out of, then he started climbing into Caroline's crib. Mike and I were eagerly awaiting a toddler rail, thinking this would help him stay in bed and not roll out.

His toddler rail arrived and helped a little. He was still able to get out of bed and wreak havoc in the nursery.

We started out securing all of the furniture to the wall and any loose wires. Then Will learned how to climb open drawers. Mike became "McGuiver" and figured out a way to tie the drawers closed without a hazard of strangulation. Notice the clothes on top. I was not about to undo that rope just to put them away.

My genius husband used rip ties to secure the tall lamp to the wall.

All books or potential "flying objects" had to be out of reach. We had to put the lamp up and down each time we used it.

THEN, one lovely morning, I walked into the nursery to find the destruction Will left behind after an early morning party. (Did I mention that I cried during this fun phase?) I took photos to document and laugh at one day.

When I walked into the room, the first thing I saw was the wall paper torn down.

Then I saw Will sitting in the floor playing with medicines (all closed thank goodness) that WERE completely out of reach. Until he figured out how to climb the knobs of the changing table. They were sick at the time.

While up there, he sprayed baby powder everywhere, knocked down the medicines and unlocked the latch that kept the closet door closed. (All while I was sleeping next door.)

Here is a view of where the furniture was placed. As you can see, the closet is next to the changing table and all of the drawers are tied up.

The fingerprints left behind by our little michievious one.

He also took all of the wet washcloths out of the wipes warmer and flung them everywhere.

So, the solution.... After many pep talks from girlfriends, we decided to get a crib net, but we had to get one that would work with our style of crib. We put it up, then the ring at the top broke and Will fell forward on the floor. Then, Mike fixed it with a stronger ring and put the front of the crib back on. Let's just say after many little trials, we got it right and Will sleeps safe and sound in his crib.

The net tucks completely under the mattress and zips up the front.

He is actually quite happy to go to sleep in his little "tent".

Of course, we had to toddler-proof other areas of the house.

Even through ties and bands, they are able to open the drawers and get things out.

Climbing the stairs together, they like to race to see who gets to the top first.

One of our many stair gates.

Gate to the main staircase. Will can almost climb over this one.

This is the back door to the kitchen that Will opened and walked out of into the backyard before I could realize the door had just closed.

This is the plastic chicken netting that Mike had to put up all around the deck after Will flipped over the middle rail, headfirst, into the gravel below. Just a small bump and another lesson for mommy and daddy.

Mike even made little gates to protect them from going down the deck stairs.

Here is a video of our little darlings racing up the staircase.

Official 1st Birthday pictures

2009-05-27T23:40:00.007-04:00

Last week we took Caroline to have her official 1st birthday pictures taken. We just can't say enough about what a great job they do at Portrait Innovations. I was so excited when I found a location about an hour away from our new home. Yeah!!! They always give me a CD with all of the shots taken. Below are just some of my favorites.

We always bring three or four outfits. This was her "southern belle" picture.

I never plan to be in the pictures, but at this age, sometimes the only way to calm the babies down it to sit down with them and hope for smiles.

Oh, but I LOVE this outfit. Her shirt reminds me of one from those 60's beach movies. And finally, she relaxed and starting playing for the camera.

Her first dance with a giant teddy bear.

Cake time! I made her a little birthday cake just for pictures. She grabbed the "1" candle and dug into the icing. So cute in her ballerina bathing suit.
This is hard work mommy!

We are getting ready to take a family trip to New Orleans for a very special weekend. So, of course, they have to dressed for the occasion. I found these matching brother-sister smocked crawfish outfits that are just perfect.

Will was not exactly happy about taking a picture. Caroline was just looking at him like he was crazy. She seems to be saying, "what is wrong with you?"

Here we go, mommy in another picture. I love the place where we take them, because they take a lot of candid shots. Will was in a "hold me" mood and Caroline just made the photographers crack up laughing at her expressions while in my lap.

Ahhh, they we go. There's my smiling little guy.

We'll go back in a couple of months for Will's 2 year old pictures. I'm sure I'll throw Caroline in one of those shots, too. If she'll let me.

Mother's Day 2009

2009-05-20T21:10:00.006-04:00

Ever since the death of my mom back in 2005, this day has made me heart a little tender. This year was no different, especially when I look at my little Caroline. I see her and then leap back to when I was younger during my teen years with mom. I was no angel. Enough said. And then, the years in my 20's and how she and I became friends. I look at my children, and I remember her. I see my mother and grandmother in my mothering and swell with pride. Sometimes, being a motherless, mother is a lonely journey, but I just do the very best I can and rely on their wisdom over the years and then I know, that Caroline and Will are going to be just fine. No one is perfect, but my grandmother and mother did a great job. Mom always wished I would get payback when I had children, well...quite often, I am certain that a little laughter can be heard from heaven when Caroline or Will drive me crazy. So, today, I honor their memory and thank God for my beautiful children and the joy they bring.

The day began with a great breakfast at a local restaurant and surprises from the children and Mike. I was given one of those musical cards. Caroline absolutely loved it. She is my little dancer. Below is a video of her opening and closing the card and dancing to the song, "Some kind of wonderful." It's soooo funny, because her face looks so serious while she bops along. I love it. Make sure your volume is on!

After lunch, Will gave me an unexpected present. When I went into the nursery to get them up from nap, he was on top of his crib rail with one foot reaching into a nearby drawer. Oh, my word! We were not ready for that. So, Mike got busy securing furniture to the wall and turning his crib into a toddler daybed. We've entered a whole new world! He thinks he now has the freedom to roam around the nursery, empty all of the clothing drawers, aggravate his sister and steal her pacifiers, only to throw them across the room. He's even working on climbing into Caroline's crib. What fun!

Later in the afternoon, we attended a Mother's Day cookout with a local family.

Caroline was quick to steal a look at a police car that Will was playing with. Thankfully, it didn't belong to us and we left it there...it was complete with lights and sirens!

It was a beautiful day, so Mike and I played in the yard with the kids.
Will loves being in constant motion.

Caroline was still unsure about the grass.

Oh, if only they would sit still for one picture together.

His new favorite thing to do, fill the bushes with rocks!

Loving my angel!

All in the same day, we found a bird nest built very low to the ground. We only took a peek, no touching. It was sweet to see on Mother's Day.

The momma bird was watching close by.

Almost bed time. "Can't we PLEASE go outside one more time!"

Happy 1st Birthday Caroline

2009-05-18T14:36:00.006-04:00

Where has the year gone? Has momma's always say, our children's time as babies flies by. And so goes Caroline's 1st year. My youngest, and last child, our baby girl, Caroline Golden turned 1 on the 14th of May. We celebrated with presents, a wonderful visit with grandparents and of course, Cake! My father and his lovely wife, Cheryl drove all the way up from Louisiana.

Our sweet Caroline the day she was born.

I had no idea what I was in for with two babies 10 months apart. This picture makes me laugh compared to the pictures of them together now.

Our Birthday Girl!!!

"Seriously, do we have to keep doing this, I just want to play!"

A present from Grandma and Grandpa in Atlanta.

Will loved playing on the slide they sent.

And there is the official "momma look" for Will, formerly known as my "teacher look". You know, the "you better behave yourself!" look that all mommy's can give.

Will had fun playing with everything that was opened up.

More presents! Caroline kept our little post office busy this week.

"I really don't want to wear this hat mommy!" Ahhh, the things we do to our kids for the sake of pictures.

Getting ready for cake!

I made Caroline a giant pink gerber daisy birthday cake. She just wants to eat it! And so does Will!

Here we all are! Everyone tells us with kids this close in age that we are going to be miserable until they are both 3 years old. Well, Mike and I have survived the 1st year. How many more to go?

Caroline cleaned her plate.

And then, she had a fit, when she couldn't have more.

And, Will put all of his ice cream in his mouth at one time, he then realized it was way too cold and uncomfortable, so I let him spit it out.

Playtime

2009-05-08T09:43:00.006-04:00

Heeelllloooooo! (That's me yelling across a cornfield!) Anyhoo, another fun week of watching them develop. I finally joined Facebook this week. It is amazing and wonderful to see people coming out of the woodwork. It's like a flashback of my life. I have connected with people from my childhood, college, First Baptist Atl, and people I have taught with. Amazing! I have even found people that I thought I would never see again after Hurricane Katrina. Up here in Illinois, it's been a little lonely. It's been so great to reconnect with people I have loved and missed. So, for everyone who's been bugging me, we are now on Facebook. No fanfare or applause, please. Tee hee hee.

I am going to upload short videos more often at the request of grandparents. So this post has 2. One video here and one at the end.

This is video of the kids swinging together for the 1st time. We got Caroline a matching swing and Mike put them up earlier in the day. They loved it. Make sure your volume is on.

So funny, it was nap time and Will was trying to pick up Caroline. She screamed and had the look of "Don't touch me!" Love it! So much drama, they get it honestly.

Caroline is proving more and more that she's not a baby anymore. Now she has a regular snack, just like her big brother. They both eat snack and watch the Backyardigans. Except, they steal snack from each other!

Caroline has passed this box for a week and every time, she stops to look at it and try to get into it. It's a little shopping cart for her birthday that I need to put together. She's just asking, "mommy, please let me have it now!" She knows it's something for her.

" I just can't wait to have it!"

This is video of the kids playing in the front yard. Caroline still hates the grass and Will loves to run everywhere. Her expressions are so funny!

Adjusting to Ilinois

2009-05-04T16:27:00.008-04:00

Mike, the children and I are finally getting settled in. Last week, I took the kids outside to play in the grass. This was Caroline's first experience with grass, so I was camera ready. Caroline is so prissy. She was not sure about the grass. She was so funny. For about 15 - 20 minutes, she would NOT move and kept her hands up in the air. She didn't want to touch it. Normally Caroline crawls with lightening speed all over the place, but she was not budging in the grass. Meanwhile, her brother Will, was quite happy running around and playing in the rocks. The pictures below really say it all. Even though she wouldn't move, she certainly looked beautiful with her pink bow in the green, green grass.

Looking very concerned about the stuff she was sitting in.

Finally, an attempt at touching the grass.

Ahhh, not so bad, still not moving!

Will agreed to sit for about 2 seconds.

Very curious about the strange tree in the front yard.

Oh, goodness, a little boy's heaven. So many rocks to choose from! Mommy's rules, no throwing at your sister and they have to stay outside. Other than that, have a ball, my sweet Will!

In the playroom in their red truck. Certainly headed somewhere.

Bath time! Their favorite time of day. They both just love the big deep tub. We have the hardest time keeping Caroline seated. She wants to stand up all the time. It takes both Mike and I to wash Will and keep a hand on her. Look at Will's face, he's so animated! Every bath time, I come out of it completely soaked. They both splash like crazy.

Mike and I took the babies for a walk around town. Here are some pictures of our little "village" as they call it. This is Main Street.

The old, still used, coliseum.

Our tiny post office. I walk here a few times a week for our mail. It's a little strange not having a normal mailbox at our house.

The water tower. Notice the boy and girl holding hands.

One of the grainery train stops. Several trains go through here everyday, and night, just one block from our house. Everytime, Will hollers and points in that direction. He's facinated by them. But aren't all little boys. Oh, there goes one now. Toot toot!

Another view of Main Street. Only 3 businesses left, 2 bars and the post office.

Okay, I tried this for the 1st time, it's a short video of Will doing the Nestea plunge on a blow up mattress in the playroom during the first days. Hope it works .

Our move to IL

2009-04-30T10:56:00.008-04:00

Well, this is not the south, but it is home now. We are officially in Illinois. We are in a small town just 1 1/2 hours south of Chicago. We are renting a giant 100 year old farmhouse that is really beautiful. Stained glass windows and tons of storage. Aside from a few electrical limitations and some old, floral wallpaper, we love it. I'm so proud of my sweetheart, Mike. He did a great job picking it out. I saw the house for the first time when the trucks, yes trucks, (2 large ones) pulled up. Needless to say, my days have been super busy unpacking, taking care of my little ones, and getting ready for Caroline's 1st birthday!

The good news is that we now have super high-speed internet. We have rejoined the rest of the world. So, for everyone who says, "when are you going to update the blog!?!" I hope to update once or twice a week.

We were so lucky and blessed to have a ton of help during the move. Jim, one of Mike's dearest and oldest friends, flew into GA all the way from Colorado to help for a whole week. I don't know what we would have done without him. We will always be grateful for his time and sacrifice. A sweet angel from NC, Elizabeth, came from out of the blue, sort of, and helped me with the kids for the last 4 days so that I could finish up the final packing. She was a true Godsend. Many other folks came, Ashley, people from the church, and Mike's best man, Michael all came to help. Jim drove one truck, Mike drove the other and I drove the 2 babies in the car between them. It took us 2 days to get here. But, with God, great friends and a little luck, we made it in one (or two) pieces.

In other big news, Michelle, had her beautiful baby girl a few weeks early at end of March. Her name is Brooklyn Lee. She is gorgeous and healthy and I got to see her before we left. I was thrilled and sad about it, all at the same time because we were moving. Thank goodness for phones and email. We are also planning to be on Skype very, very soon.

Will and Caroline are adjusting to the house just fine. At first, Will loved opening the fifty or so cabinets and doors. Then, after a couple of days, he seemed ready to leave and go back "home." After a couple of cranky days, he was back to being himself. The babies have a huge playroom in the front of the house with 4 very large windows all around. They like having their own place to play and watching the cars go by. Mike and I love not tripping over toys all the time.

A quick, funny story. The first day we were here, around lunchtime, a loud siren went off in town. I panicked and ran into the living room yelling, "What's that!." I didn't know what it was, but I knew it wasn't good. I almost grabbed the kids and ran to the basement. Jim calmly looked at his watch and said, "well, it must be noon." He explained that they test the tornado siren every couple of days at noon. Being a southerner, I don't know these things. I only know hurricanes and we usually get a couple days warning for those. Now, whenever it goes off, it gets my attention, but no panicking.

Here are some pictures of Brooklyn and the last couple of weeks.

Michelle, Chris and their precious baby girl, Brooklyn.

Brooklyn, wide eyed and ready to go. Just beautiful!

Our final visit before the move.

On the road, Mike is driving the truck ahead of me, with the Mini Cooper in-tow.

A pitstop, to stretch our legs. Jim had fun walking around with Will. Will had fun testing Jim.

This is the front of the house. 100 years old, this year.

The view of the back. There is an attached garage and another extra large 2-car garage. Mike is in heaven.

If you walk 2 blocks down the street, you run straight into these corn fields. They surround this tiny town.

Our first look at the house. Jim is in part of the playroom. Will is in the living room.

Oh, how badly Will wants to help. He loved watching Daddy and Jim unload the truck.

Caroline thought the baseboard heaters were great for learning to stand.

We decided to put both babies in the same room. They love it! Naptime is interesting, though. They like throwing toys back and forth and seeing who can fall down on the mattress the fastest.

I always hear lots of giggles and chattering coming from their room.

Jim and the kids. Time to say goodbye.

Caroline and Jim. They were quite smitten with each other!

More to come, I promise!

A Time for Change All in One Day!

2009-03-12T19:55:00.006-04:00

This past week, Tuesday was an eventful and sad day. Most of you know, our dearest Lab, Tess has been sick with renal failure since July. On the weekend, she got much sicker, quickly. On Tuesday, her breathing was labored and she was suffering, so we made the very difficult decision to let her go. She was put to sleep peacefully Tuesday night. She is being cremated and we will spread her ashes at the lake in front of our home. We had some precious time with her during her final days. She slept on the daybed overlooking the lake and gave kisses to our children.

I have had Tess since 8 wks of age. She was such a cutie!

Tess loved my mom and the feeling was mutual. Mom would feed her salad from a fork! She was spoiled rotten.

Like all Labs, she loved sticks. The bigger the better!

Even sick, she tried to comfort Will when he fell down.

The sweetest thing ever. Nose to nose with Caroline. We will forever miss her.

Also on Tuesday morning, we got the news that Mike was offered a new job. We are moving about 45 minutes south of Chicago, IL in the next few weeks. Mike has gotten a wonderful job with a college. He will be the general manager of the college's radio station. It will be a big change in many, many ways for us. I am not looking forward to the snow. Remember, I am a southern girl from New Orleans! While I am not necessarily thrilled about moving up north, we will, at least, be in a city with stores, doctors, restaurants and all of the things we need and love. No more 2 hour drives to the pediatrician. There is even a children's museum in the area, not to mention the great places just a short drive away in Chicago. Note the positive outlook...while I am sad about leaving the south, I am trying to embrace our awaiting new life. In these hard times for so many in our country, we are really blessed and fortunate to have such a great opportunity. We have prayed that God would provide for our needs and faithfully he has done so. Therefore, with a cheerful smile (most of the time) and missing our sweet Tess, we have begun the process of packing our life and moving forward.

Mike will head up to Chicago on April 1st to start work and find a home for us. The babies and I will stay behind to finish packing. We will spend some time at his parents house, say goodbye to friends and then load the truck when Mike comes back to pick us up. April 15 is our official last day here. We will keep you posted as we know more. This is a bittersweet time for our family. We love and thank you for all of the support that has been sent our way.

Our Sick Little Will

2008-11-21T10:15:00.014-05:00

As most of you know, our oldest child, Will was very sick this past November. Several of you have asked about him, so even though it seems a long time ago, here are some pictures of those days in the hospital.

Soon after returning from our trip to VA, Will came down ill with a light rash on his tummy. Things quickly went downhill in the following days. In this post, I will try to give you a brief synopsis of the week's events. First of all, while Will was sick, we sent Caroline to daycare in an effort to keep her from getting sick.

Doesn't she look smashing! Such a cutie!

Alright, on with Will.

On day 3 of the rash, his fever spiked to 104 and his legs and arms were bright red as if he had been badly sunburned. We were advised to take him straight to the E.R. Thankfully, Mike's mom was there to help take care of Caroline. Thank goodness for Grandmas!

Will was sent from the local ER to another hospital about 1 hour away as a direct admit. His fever would spike high about every 3-4 hours. This is after medicine when he was feeling good. Notice that Teddy is never far from reach.

My little one (and Teddy) passed out. That was his 2nd IV. He was so dehydrated that it was difficult to get IV's to stay without blowing veings. He was so brave!

I slept in a bed next to him. Like most mommas, rules get lax when kids are sick. As with the cell phone, I broke down and let him press the buttons. The little stinker figured out how to unlock the keypad and called Daddy!

With just a little appetite, he enjoyed eating off of mommy's plate like a big boy.

There goes his fever again. After medicine, he always got very sleepy.

After a couple of days in that hospital, Will was transferred by ambulance to Children's Hospital in Atlanta. He was so cute sitting up high on the stretcher. Those wonderful EMT's were able to get another IV going. This time in his foot! As always, his Teddy went along for the ride too.

Will looked so tiny next to the ambulance. Of course, I rode along with him to Children's.

At Children's, there was no grown-up bed. So, at the nurse's suggestion, I hopped in his crib and slept with Will throughout his stay there.

Will loved to play with the balloon his Daddy got for him.

Finally, we were allowed to leave the room and take Will for a ride in the wagon. Faithful Teddy and that darned I.V. pole were always by our side. During his stay Will received several knew I.V's and blood draws. He started running out of veins. It was very hard to see our little man go through this. However, seeing other parents and children at the hospital that were much sicker, made us thankful for the blessings of our two beautiful and well children.

Will thought the TV by the floor was interesting.

Smiling. We are finally on the rode to recovery.

Since we were in Atlanta, several folks were able to come by for a visit. Aunt Michelle was able to come often. That day, Grandma and Grandpa brought Caroline for a visit as well. Good practice for Michelle, because she is expecting her own baby girl in April. This will be her 1st child and we are all just thrilled for her!

Will and the cell phone. What fun!

Yeah! Aunt Michelle crawled in bed too!

Often, Children's had special events for the patients. I took Will down to see some therapy dogs that were visiting that day. He was still pretty sick, but enjoyed getting out of his room.

When he saw this dog, he kept saying, "T,t,t," Because it reminded him of our big yellow Lab, Tess!

Uncle Jim, one of Mike's best friends, flew in from Colorado for a visit. Little Caroline was visiting that day as well.

Finally, home! Will was discharged after a week of being in the hospital. I never left his side, but I certainly did miss my wonderful husband and precious daughter. It was good to be home again.

The doctors determined that Will became ill with a virus called Adenovirus. During his stay, there were many nights of worry and somewhat close calls, but all in all, he came out fine. We have been told that he had an underdeveloped immune system which causes him to get sick easier and more severely than other children. He will outgrow it, but until then, he has been pulled out of daycare and must stay clear of other small children for a while.

Caroline and Will

2008-11-21T10:04:00.006-05:00

A few days before our trip to VA, we had pictures taken of Caroline and Will. Here are just a few. Everytime I look at these precious children, I thank God for the blessing of them. I tell them all the time, that I must be the luckiest mommy in the world. Of course, I am a little biased.

All southern girls must wear a bow! At least, we think so!

She looks like a plump piece of bubblegum!

Love that tongue sticking out!

We tried to get them together for a picture. This is as good as we could do.

Now for the family picture, Will trying to squirm away and Daddy holding on tight!

Finally, take the picture quick Mr. Photographer!

Trip to VA to see Uncle Dave & Aunt Debi

2008-11-21T09:36:00.006-05:00

Back in November, Mike and I took a weekend trip to go visit my brother and his wife, Debi in Virginia. This is the first time that they were able to see our sweet Caroline. We had a wonderful time and the weather was really lovely.

The first full day, we took the babies to a park. As you can see, the leaves were glorious. The covered the ground and made a delightful crunching sound that Will just loved.

So much fun to through leaves into the air.

Such a sweet boy, looking like he is up to something!

Momma and my baby girl! She is just gorgeous!

Weee! Let's do it again Daddy!

Caroline is holding on and trying hard not to smile.

Tired and in the arms of my uncle!

Uncle David and Will. I see trouble in the years ahead. David will teach Will everything he knows about mischief!

Daddy and Caroline, waiting while Will plays on an indoor playground.

Aunt Debi and Will.

SNOW in October and 1st Haircut

2008-11-14T06:07:00.005-05:00

It was a little much for this South Louisiana girl to see, but it snowed at our house during the last week of October. It started out light, but then came down pretty heavy for about an hour. It only briefly stuck to the roof and cars, but it was beautiful. Here are the pictures to prove it, for those nay-sayers out there.

Will and Caroline had to be bundled up to go to daycare. He reminded me of the kid from a Christmas Story.

Caroline looked so sweet and snuggly in her pink snow suit from her Gram in Louisiana.

The next day, we took Will to get his 1st haircut. Here is the before picture.

Will got to sit in a fun little race car during the haircut.

He had fun pretending to drive.

Looking good with his sweet hairdresser.

Now Momma and Daddy need a cut too! Caroline will wait for a while. I can't wait to see her long curls!

Will gets ear tubes

2008-11-04T19:31:00.008-05:00

A few weeks ago, after one to many ear infections, Will was scheduled to have tubes put in his ears. It a relatively simple and common procedure, but of course, as his parents, Mike and I were nervous. Will, on the other hand, was happy as a clam to be there and loved playing and flirting with all of the nurses. It was performed as an outpatient procedure at Children's Hospital. It only took 15 minutes and he was all done.

There were wonderful toys in the waiting area. Will took right to them. He loved opening and closing the little door.

He was so darn cute walking around in his little hospital gown, with his bottom showing.

Will had the most fun riding around in the little convertible car.

Our little 07-07-07 baby, had room 7. Seven is really a special number for this boy.

After the procedure, we stopped on the way home for a bite to eat. Will was feeling better than ever and loving all the attention from momma and daddy.

The next day, Will was feeling great, so Mike and I took he and Caroline to a pumpkin patch and hay ride. Mike's parents, Lou and Renee joined us. It was a beautiful fall day and a lot fun for everyone.

This was the view from the hayride. Gorgeous!

Heaping loads of hayride fun!

Deciding on which pumpkin to pick is hard work.

Found one!

Grandma and Grandpa have conquered a pumpkin!

Caroline took a ride with daddy.

Whew! Slides are so much fun

Visiting Margaret

2008-11-04T19:27:00.004-05:00

Our final stop on our trip through Alabama and Louisiana was to see my Aunt Margaret and cousin, Danielle near New Orleans. Aunt Margaret was quite taken with Miss Caroline.

Will had a great time playing and running from Dani.

He looks like he is about to take flight.

Kisses, kisses, kisses

On the way home, we stopped at our favorite kid-friendly restuarant, Cracker Barrel. Will liked taking sips of orange juice from daddy's straw.

Most of all, he liked having his chair facing out so he could smile at all of the folks passing by.

Pals and Pumpkins in New Orleans

2008-10-27T15:26:00.005-04:00

There is nothing better than pictures of little ones with pumpkins! While in New Orleans, we went to Becnel's Fruit and Veggie Stand to grab some Satsumas. (Little tangerine-sorta things that are super sweet, seedless and yummy!) Anywho, Will had a good time with their great assortment of pumpkins.

Will in front of a restaurant in New Orleans where we met some precious friends for fried catfish and fried pickles.

At Becnel's, Will picked up several rocks and brought them to me. I just love his little "presents."

Will found a table full of little pumpkins. Oh, so many to choose from.

Found one!

Will wanted one of these pumpkins, too! He grunted each time he tried to pick one up. So cute!

When we arrived to New Orleans, we stayed with Nelda and Cybble. They were so generous to open their home to us for our stay. I don't know where to begin when I speak of these two precious women. Nelda and Cybble are 2 of 4 sisters, that, while not related by blood, are truly family. I have known the four Bucceri sisters, Cybble, Nelda, Roxanne, and Stephanie all of my life. They know all of my secrets! It's so important to have folks like that in my life. These ladies and their precious family members are some of the dearest delights of my heart and we love them. I love you girls!!!!

Nelda and Cybble with a completely pooped Will.

A dear friend of the Bucceri's and mine, Carolyn drove in from North Louisiana to visit with them. We were just lucky to be in town on the same weekend. I called Carolyn the "baby whisperer." She was amazing with my sweet, but sometimes, screaming Caroline. I wish we could have put her in the car with us for the trip back home!

The next day, we went to the home of my dear friend, Sherry. Sherry is one of those folks that is really more like family. She knew my grandmother and grandfather, David and Beulah Golden and my mother, Cindy. I've known her for what seems like forever in a wonderful service organization for girls called the International Order of the Rainbow for Girls. Her daughter, Danielle, grew up in the organization with me. They are incredibly special people and Mike and I are blessed beyond measure to have them in our lives.

It was so much fun to spend some time with Sherry and her family. Somehow, I failed to get a picture of Sherry and Jody! Danielle and her husband, Brad drove in from Baton Rouge to see us. It was great to our kids playing together. It's hard to believe that we have gone from being giggling, young girls to wives and mothers.

Beautiful Dani with sweet Caroline!

Danielle and her kids, Noah and Abigail. Me with Caroline and Will.

Noah and Will are just 1 month apart!

Will sporting an LSU hat!

Brad playing with Caroline

Will and Noah were in constant motion!

Abigail was so cute holding Caroline

Goodness gracious, but isn't Noah just adorable!

Paw Paw and Gram

2008-10-27T15:12:00.004-04:00

Finally in New Orleans! My Dad and stepmother, Cheryl came in to visit at one of our favorite restuarants, Mulate's. Cheryl's grandson, Andrew, came along as well. It was a wonderful visit and the food was great. We even managed to bring home some fried crawfish tails.

Of course, Dad held little Caroline the minute we arrived and had a hard time letting go. I think she know that she has Paw Paw around her finger.

Will and Daddy playing at the table.

My little man!

Will and Paw Paw, giving kisses.

Loving his Paw Paw!

Out like a light.

Gram and Caroline

Andrew and Will were great pals!

Family in Alabama

2008-10-27T15:07:00.002-04:00

Our trip through Alabama and Louisiana began with a visit with family from my daddy's side of the family. For the most part, William and Caroline did very well on the long car trip. They were both just very tired once we arrived.

This is Will and Caroline with their sweet Great-Grandma Elva. She is 98 years old and completely precious. She is doing very well and seemed to really enjoy their visit. She wears a device to help her hear better.

Caroline looks so adorable in her Great-Grandma's arms. Grandma kept saying that she was "so cute" and how she loved her pink bow. Of course, my grandma knows southern little girl's look best in bows!

Will was giving her a picture that he found in her room.

Before our stop to see Grandma, we made a short stop to see my cousin, Bruce. Bruce and his wife, Annette, have 5 boys, so needless to say, he was in love with Miss Caroline. Will just thought his office was cool. I have a feeling he is going to grow up loving his cousin Bruce.

Bruce with Caroline and Will

When we first arrived, we had a brief visit from Aunt Anne and Uncle Terry. As you can see from the picture, Caroline was quite tired and cranky and ready for a bottle and bed.

Outside a Cracker Barrel restuarant while on the road.

Day at the Park

2008-10-13T15:36:00.005-04:00

Will started walking at 14 months. Now he walks all the time, except at the playground. It was a beautiful day on Friday, so Mike and I took the babies to the park. Will loved crawling all over the play equipment. The park has a special playground just for kids under 4, so it was just perfect for him. Next spring, Caroline will be happy to join him in the fun.

Daddy's boy!

Peek-a-Boo!

Come catch me, if you can!

Caroline just enjoyed the sunshine. She loves being outside, too.

Big Changes

2008-10-13T15:27:00.007-04:00

Okay, we've had some big changes around here. In a nutshell, I have gone back to work. Part by choice, part by necessity. This may come as news to most of you, but I am not teaching. I am planning to follow in my late mother and late grandmother's footsteps and pursue a second degree in nursing. My Aunt Margaret is an ER nurse in New Orleans. I seek her out for advice often. I guess you can say that nursing is in my blood. Until then, I wanted a job that would allow me to come home without extra work to do, such as grading papers and lesson plans. So, I am working as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in our local skilled care nursing home. I am working the night shift, so that during the day, I can take a few prerequisite classes and prepare for the nursing entrance exam which I will take in December or January.

So, as you can probably guess, the babies now have to go to daycare. Where we live, it was quite a challenge to find a quality daycare. We finally found one about 20 minutes from our home and conveniently very near the college where I will be attending classes. The teachers are really great with our angels and take good care of them. It was very challenging for everybody the first couple of weeks. As any new working mom would say, it is so hard to think of someone else caring for the babies when they are still so little. I cried alot during the first few days. I feel and know that I am missing out of things while they are there, but we have to do, what we have to do. It will be the best for everyone in the long run.

One day last week, I left the camera with the teachers so they could take some pictures. Here is what we got back.

Will painted a pumpkin picture.

I think he may be going after the girls a little bit early. He had sweet hugs for a friend.

That's my boy! He loves to look at books.

It's so cute to see him discovering a leaf.

Will loves to be outside. Ms. Gail says that he is always the last to come in from the playground.

Caroline is the darling of her little group. All the teachers love her and want to take her home.

Kerplop! Fallen over!

Tummy time! She's pushing up and rolling over like a little log.

More catching up

2008-10-13T15:21:00.007-04:00

You know a little boy is up to something, when he is too quiet. My little babbler was suddenly silent. When I went to look for him, I found him sitting in the floor eating an apple. The whole darn thing, stem, skin and all. Apparently, he got it out of the fruit bowl that was within his reach. He's never had more than tiny cut up pieces of apple and there he is sitting there eating the apple like he had done it all his life. I just cracked up.

After catching the moment on camera, I thought it would be best if he didn't eat in the floor, so into the highchair he went.

Some pictures of sweet Caroline:

Here is our little Caroline sitting pretty in the glider in her room.

When she smiles, the room lights up!

All tuckered out and ready for some beauty sleep.

Time for a well visit check-up at our pediatrician's office.

Mommy's little pumpkin.

Will discovered the joy of pushing chairs around.

Daddy came along for the visit. It's very difficult to handle both of the babies at the doctor without help. We practice one-on-one defense.

Will makes a disaster of the white paper they put down on the exam table. It serves no real purpose, just toddler entertainment. With some assistance from daddy, he wrapped himself up and had a ball.

Ahhh, Broken free!

Catching up Part 1

2008-09-04T19:48:00.007-04:00

Hello everybody! It's been a little busy around here, so I've been unable to get to the blog. Both of the babies have been sick for the past 2 weeks. The first week they were ill, I was in the E.R. in the middle of the night with Will on Tuesday and Caroline on Thursday, both with high fevers that turned out to be bad ear infections. They are still running low-grade fevers and Will is on his second round of antibiotics. We're praying and hoping for a quick recovery for both of them soon. Two infants are sometimes hard to handle, but two sick infants has been tough. Overall, no complaints, we have two precious babies that are healthy and happy. We couldn't ask for more. Just maybe a little more sleep.

In an effort to catch everyone up, here is the first of a few posts that have a variety of pictures and activities.

This is our sweet Caroline at 2 months. I like to say she smiles like she's just been caught eating butter.

Here she is at 3 months. Smiling even bigger!

I'm so proud, this is the first dress that I have made for her. My late mother, would been sewing like a fool for the babies. So, I will try to do as much as I can, as she did for me, when I was young.

One of my new favorite past times is to go shopping for baby clothes at kid consignment sales. I get the best deals of clothing that was hardly ever worn. I'm very picky and unfortunately have expensive taste. This way, I can feed that desire without breaking the bank. Tee hee.

This is our loot from the first sale. We purchased clothes for fall and winter for both Will and Caroline.

Both passed out, while momma checked out.

Dinner after...Will flirted with everyone, naturally!
So silly.

A 1st picture of Will and Caroline together. Will looked sweet trying to hold her hand, until...

He joyfully smacked her on the head!

Gram and PawPaw from Louisiana sent this teddy bear to Will. He's clung to it ever since. He sleeps with it, and it has to go everywhere. It's so darn cute.

Baby Proofing, yea right

2008-08-03T23:27:00.011-04:00

Oh, boy! I keep wondering, do the "Terrible Two's" begin at age 2 or in the 2nd year of life. Either way, we are headed right for them, ahead of the game, I'm afraid! Now that Will has discovered how to move, he seems to be unstoppable. He is not walking on his own, YET. But, he's already everywhere and into everything. He crawls with record speed and has very little interest in toys. He would much rather play with things that are "no-no's." What a stinker! As my grandmother, Beulah would say, He's too smart for his own good. We are definitely having to keep our thumb on him.

I am learning to keep a camera close by to capture these precarious moments before I intervene. Below are some pictures of a few of his sha-na-nagins!

Checking on his sister, more like, ready to attack!

Will disappeared for a second, when I found him, he was in the bathroom discovering the toilet paper! What fun!

Lately, he enjoys "helping" mommy with the laundry. He likes to take all of the clothes out of the basket while I try to fold them. This time, he crawled right in and got comfy.

"What? I'm helping!"

This was a good one. He managed to remove the lid and dump the FULL gallon of water we use for wipes all over the floor in Caroline's room. And then, seemed to look at it with amazement. This took several beach towels to clean up.

Getting into Mommy's yarn.

For someone who is not walking, he is sure good at climbing.

"Oh, mommy, is watching. Caught again!"

Practicing to drink all by himself.

Again, in Caroline's room. He spends a lot of time snooping around in there. This time, he found a doll and enjoyed beating it up.

Caught, again. Darn!

Watching Daddy outside.

Lovingly (not really), poking Caroline in the face. We are trying to teach him to use gentle hands. No luck so far! He doesn't know his own strength.

Oops, he found some tissue on the table.

And, promptly began to tear it to shreds.

Holding on to his beloved white sock, (we can't explain it), he still tries to fit in his old bouncy chair that now belongs to Caroline. It seems all things old are new again!

I've learned that when he's quiet, it usually means trouble. I found him, once again, in Caroline's room. He had dumped and thrown all of the clothes from her laundry hamper and then, gleefully rolled around on the carpet.

This is how I found him. Ahhh, the joy of being a 1-year old!

Trust me, there were many more moments that I was not able to capture on camera. During those three days, he also managed to remove the cover to a bolt that anchors the....TOILET! and put it in his mouth! I remember, one day, at the playground, another mom was telling me about some disgusting things her child had put in his mouth and I foolishly thought to myself, "not my child! never!" Ha, ha, well he proved me wrong! That same day he also broke a glass bowl, that I thought he couldn't reach. My goodness, this child is going to give me fits! And just think, Caroline is right on his heels. What fun!!

A Day at the Photographer

2008-07-27T20:07:00.010-04:00

With the help of Michelle and Joy, I was able to take the babies to have professional pictures done. It was exhausting, but a great deal of fun. I think it's so important to capture these milestones with photos. After all, never again will I have babies this close in age. It is a precious and crazy time. These pictures were taken about a month ago.

First, pictures of sweet Caroline at 6 weeks old.

Look at those eyes!

Oh, and there's the face I love. She is so good at poking out her bottom lip! We'll probably see alot of that in the years to come.

I decided to have pictures taken of Caroline and I together. Even though, quite honestly, I am not loving with my "post-pregnancy" look these days, I think Caroline should have pictures of her with her mother at this moment in time. I love looking back at pictures of my mom holding me as a baby.

Not quite sure what we were going for here, but it was fun to do.

This is, in a sense, our 3 generation photo. Caroline's and my hands with my mother's diamonds. I can only hope Caroline knows, one day, how special her grandmother was.

Looking like a porcelain doll.

Sweet feet!

Love that pink bow on her ruffled bottom!

And now for Will....who was playing with Michelle and Joy during Caroline's pictures.

Just jabbering away at the photographer.

Looking quite cool on a firetruck.

He's such a flirt! Look at those teeth!

Just a candid shot playing with mommy.

I made a birthday cake to bring to the photo shoot. This was his first time to taste cake. He is definitely a fan.

Will knew just what to do with that candle. Eat the icing!

Both of our babies wear cloth diapers. I love the way his diaper matched the cake. It wasn't planned, I promise!

He always had this look like he was going to get caught. Almost like he knew he shouldn't be digging into the cake.

And, now for the foot!

Notice the icing on his belly. Too cute!

My favorite picture of him. Those eyes kill me everytime!

Will's 1st Birthday Party

2008-07-21T11:22:00.009-04:00

Our sweet Will turned ONE on 07/07/08. We celebrated with a small party with family and close friends. Below are pictures from his big day!

Since we live on the lake, I decided to make him a sailboat cake. The sail was paper, but everything else was completely edible. Note the life ring and whale's tail. Michelle helped make these out of fondant to add to the "realism". Ha Ha!

A back view of the boat cake, named "The Willfish". That is one of his many nicknames! The boat even had tiny American flags hanging off the back.

Will with his very own little cake! He has become a pro at this icing thing.

Proud momma and daddy. Caroline slept peacefully while all of this was going on.

Will's new "MUDSLINGER" truck from Michelle and Joy!

Pulling cars in his new little wagon.

OK, honestly, he showed the most excitement when he opened up his LSU outfit from Aunt G. He really squealed. It was so funny! Proof we're training him right! Geaux Tigers!

A fun alphabet bus from PawPaw and Gram in Louisiana!

Riding the mudslinger. Whoo hoo!

Getting tired of all the fuss.

Of course, no event is complete without special homemade cookies. These were lollipop cookies with Will's picture tied to them. I had so much fun decorating these to match the party decorations. Daddy enjoyed eating the extras.

Sitting with his favorite Aunt G!

So adorable wearing Genny's LSU baseball cap!

After the party, folks headed to the water for a swim.

Vicki with sleepy Caroline

Vicki's great boys, Cooper and Perry.

Finally awake, Caroline shows off her pretty party dress.

Genny spent the night to spend some time with the babies.

It's quite obvious who they love!

Celebrating the 4th

2008-07-14T14:04:00.013-04:00

Everyone keeps telling me they are waiting to see pictures from Will's Birthday party. I am a little behind in uploading pictures. We have dial-up, so it takes a while. Thanks for being patient. I'll get them up soon.

Meanwhile...It was a beautiful place to celebrate the 4th of July on Lake Chatuge. Everyone had to get dressed up in their patriotic gear, even Tess! Mike did a live broadcast on the radio from a boat in the Annual Boat Parade. Meanwhile, I greeted folks and passed out beachballs and frisbees during the cook-out that followed. Caroline and Will were good little WNGM-AM ambassadors.

Morning kisses from Tess

The boats coming in at the end of the parade.

They were all decked out with red, white and blue. And everyone on board was in costume. There was a contest for the best decorated boat. I kept waiting for them to toss trinkets and beads. I guess that doesn't happen in this part of the country. It's not Mardi Gras, but was wonderful none the less!

There's the boat Mike was on. You can see him sitting in the back. They invited us all to join them, but they just don't make life vests for babies the size of my two little ones.

My two little patriots!

Little Miss America

Even Uncle Sam was in the parade!

Such a daddy's boy!

Momma and her girl

On the Sunday after the 4th, our church held a picnic near the Hiawassee River.

We had a baby boom at the church over the spring. A set of twins were born as well as these beautiful babies. The church nursery is going to be a hoot on Sunday mornings!

From left to right:
Addy w/ baby James
Alana w/ baby Westin
Me w/ baby Caroline and Will
Beth w/ baby Jonas

Will discovering the joy of grass

Caroline wore her pretty all-American dress with her initials embroidered on the front. She looked so sweet when she wasn't screaming. I just keep saying, Ohhh, Caroline! She's gonna give us a time when she's 14.

Our 1 year old

2008-07-08T11:11:00.005-04:00

On 07/07/07 at 7:27 and 7 weeks early, our sweet little William David entered the world and blessed our lives. It was a crazy, scary time but ohhh, how things have changed over the past year. Will is 1 year old today! Sometimes, I thought we'd never see this day. It's been a long, but precious road and we all couldn't be happier. And who knew, that on his 1st birthday, he would already be a BIG brother!

Below are some pictures reflecting back on the week he was born. He has really come so far!

2 hours old and needing some help to breathe.

Daddy and his little boy

Doing well, off of the ventilator after 3 hours.

Daddy's 1st diaper change

Getting stronger and bigger

3 weeks later, and going home! He was scarcely 4 1/2 pounds and barely fit in the carseat. Now, he's grown out of it and the seat belongs to Caroline.

Home for the 1st time.

Look at me now! Sitting up, pulling up, and trying to walk! Will is a strapping 19 pounds. Quite different from his 4 pound start in life.

A birthday cupcake with mommy and daddy.

Concentrating on yummy icing!

We will have his official party on Saturday, more pictures to follow!

Holly and David visit

2008-07-08T09:53:00.008-04:00

Oh, what a special treat! Through this wonderful world of blogging, I was contacted by an old friend, Holly. I met Holly when we were both back in our single days at First Baptist Atlanta, many years ago. She then met her sweet husband, David. We lost touch over the years with moves, marriage, babies and so on. And then, one day, low and behold, she signed onto my blog. Holly, David and her precious son, Kyle came up to visit with us in June. It was so wonderful to see them! It's amazing how years can go by and yet friendships seem like yesterday. David, Holly and my little Caroline

Kyle and Will swimming. Kyle was pretending to drink the water like Tess does.

Will was not too happy in the boat. He wanted to splash more!

Daddy with a wet baby fish.

Tess happily giving kisses to Kyle.

Kyle is trying to hold Tess still.

Ahhh, giving kisses back to Tess! Nothing better than little boys and puppys!

David holding Caroline.

Holly and Kyle taking a snack break.

Will in his favorite position, upside-down with daddy!

Will's first popsicle!

Popsicles for everyone.

I think there is more popsicle on Will's shirt.

Talking with Tess at the end of the day.

SOLD

2008-07-03T11:13:00.002-04:00

With great relief, but sadness, our home in Mt. Airy has finally sold. It had been on the market for almost a year. It was difficult for Mike to weekly maintain the house and the yard while it was being shown. So, we are glad to have the burden removed, especially in this challenging market. Mike and I did a final walk through and of course, I cried. After all, this was our first house where we brought our first baby home, where we had wonderful dinners with family and friends, and where precious memories were made. Not to mention, our sweet and unforgettable neighbors, the Flemmings.

So, we close this brief chapter in our lives and move forward. It was hard to attend the closing and not be a little sad, but we know the home is going to a nice couple. We only hope they love it as much as we did.

Waiting for a new family to love.

When we arrived home that evening, Mike and I saw the most beautiful sunset over the lake. It was a lovely symbol of our bright and promising future ahead. As Scarlett O'Hara would say, "tomorrow is another day!"

Aimee and Ella Kate

2008-07-03T10:31:00.005-04:00

We had our last appointment with my doctor this past week. Dr. Bauerband and his fantastic nurse, Carol have been by our side for the past 2 years carefully watching over the pregnancies of Will and Caroline. Dr. Bauerband delivered little Caroline. While I'm glad the weekly trips to his office are over, it was still bittersweet to tell them and all of the office staff good-bye for a little while. We are so grateful for all they have done.

Carol and Dr. Bauerband with Caroline

After the appointment, we stopped by to visit with a sweet friend, Aimee, and her newest daughter, Ella Kate. Ella Kate is the youngest of 4 beautiful daughters. She was born a few weeks after Caroline. I had the privilige of teaching 1st grade with Aimee last year.

Proud momma and daughter.

Aimee's 3rd daughter, Mia and Will

Mommas and our girls!

Caroline and Ella Kate

Bath time when we got home.

Two tired babies after a long day.

Beach Baby

2008-06-24T19:04:00.003-04:00

Mike and I took the babies to the playground. Luckily, our local playground includes a beach area right on the lake. Needless to say, it's been HOT around here. So, without planning, I stripped Will down to his diaper and sat him down in the sand. He didn't quite know what to think. It must have been a strange sensation to feel the sand moving under him and the water splashing on his toes.

It is such an indescrible joy to experience things for the 1st time through Will's eyes. He gets so excited over the simplest things. Even a cardboard box brings him great happiness. So playing in the sand was a thrill for him. He loved the freedom of being able to crawl all over the place without being limited by doors, walls, or baby gates.

Caroline slept peacefully next to us in the stroller. Her sand play days are further along in the future.
There is nothing cuter than a diapered baby in the sand!

He's trying to figure it all out.

On the move!

A Visit from the Harrells

2008-06-24T18:56:00.003-04:00

We had a wonderful visit from our sweet friends, Ginny and Robert. Ginny worked at one of my previous schools as an incredible media specialist. It was such a privilige to watch her read to children.

They just celebrated 37 precious years of marriage! They came up to see our sweet babies! It was si good to see them and catch up.

Caroline had to dress for this special occasion.

Spending time with Ginny.

Two handsome southern guys!

Mike's Station wins an award

2008-06-09T15:18:00.002-04:00

Mike has been with his new job as the General Manager of WNGM radio for 1 year now. This past month, Mike attended the GA Asso. of Broadcasters Conference in Atlanta. During the annual Gabby Awards Banquet, the station won a "Gabby" award for Best Sports Show. Since the station is fairly new, this is a wonderful acknowledgement of all of his hard work. Of course, I had to be there to cheer my man on!

Tom, Mike and station owner, Gil

So proud of my sweetheart!

Visit from Grammy and PawPaw

2008-06-09T14:58:00.005-04:00

The week after Caroline and I came home from the hospital, sweet Cheryl came to stay with us for a week to help with the babies. She is my dad's wife of 13 years and a precious addition to our family.

A week later, she came back with my father for a short visit. It has been a real blessing to get to know her and my dad all over again. And, they brought fresh shrimp and crawfish from Louisiana. There's nothing better! You just can't find Louisiana seafood here in NC, and ohhh, how I've missed it!

Before you eat crawfish, you gotta peel' em! And these were spicy!

Daddy holding his new granddaughter.

He pretty much did this the entire visit! Too cute!

Cheryl, doing one of the things she does best, COOKING!

Grammy and her newest angel.

Proud PawPaw!

Can't you just imagine, she's already asking for things!

Sleepy Will getting sugars from Grammy

Loving my PawPaw!

Cheryl, Dad, Me, Will and Caroline

Visiting Daddys work

2008-06-09T14:33:00.005-04:00

During Caroline's 2nd week home, Mike's mom, Renee, came to help take care of the babies. On the last day of her visit, we took the babies to a wonderful local bistro-style restaraunt. Will had the most fun flirting with everyone around us. And Caroline was an angel.

Ready for crunchies! (little baby snacks that he can pick up)

What a happy baby!

After lunch, we visited Daddy at the radio station.

Tom, Mike's wonderful associate holding sweet Caroline.

Putting Will to work. Daddy can always use an extra pair of hands.

Two tired babies passed out when we got home.

Will is on the move

2008-06-07T12:46:00.004-04:00

With all the excitement of Caroline being born, Will was not about to miss out on any action. When Mike and I left for the hospital to have Caroline, Will was trying to crawl, but hadn't quite gotten the hang of it. He had only pulled up one time in his crib the night before.

BUT, much to our surprise, when we came home with his little sister 4 days later, he was crawling everywhere, with great speed! He has also mastered the art of pulling up on anything that will stand still and some things that won't. He's such a showman! He always makes sure that one of us sees him and applauds his efforts. We are working hard to keep up with him.

"Look, mom, one hand!"

"I'm going over. At least I'm trying."

Checking out Tess before bed.

He's already in love with his big, yellow doggie! I'm not sure if the feeling is mutual.

Getting to his favorite person, daddy!

Will loves to be upside down!

A baby right-of-passage, playing in the kitchen floor with mommy's spoons and containers.

Memorial Day weekend. First time in the pool and loving it!

Oh, Tess wants to get in so badly.

Check out my shades!

Coming home with Caroline

2008-06-03T08:47:00.009-04:00

Our precious Caroline has been home for almost 3 weeks. These are photos from her 1st week at home. We were so excited to bring her home on time. It was really heartbreaking to leave our little Will in NICU at the hospital last July. So, bringing her home was really wonderful and kind of scary all at the same time. When we brought Will home, he was almost 3 weeks old and on a feeding/sleeping schedule. Caroline was a clean slate. Like most parents, Mike and I had to figure it all out and work out all the details. I just keep remembering everything the nurses taught us with Will. Even though Caroline was not in the NICU, she was still a 36-week preemie and tiny. We had to do alot of the same things with her, only at home, with no nurses to hold our hands. With a 10-month old at home, it has certainly been challenging and rewarding.

The wonderful wheelchair ride to the car.

She just had to wear that precious bonnet, even if it did seem to swallow her head. My poor little Caroline, it seemed as though the car seat buckle might choke her. It is so difficult to fit a 5 pound baby in a car seat.

Look at those eyes. She studies everything carefully.

Michelle was waiting at home for us with Will. She sweetly talked to Caroline during a diaper change.

Having some "awake" time with the family.

My stepmother, Cheryl, "Gram" to the babies, came up all the way from south Louisiana. She stayed with us for a week after we came home. She cooked good Louisiana food, helped with the house and loved on my precious Will and Caroline. She was an incredible help!

Will had to check on his little sister.

Sleeping like a little angel.

Caroline was starting to cry, so her big brother crawled over to offer comfort, at least I'd like to think so. I was close by just in case his comforting turned into a hit on the head.

Okay, it can be done. It doesn't happen often, but on rare occasions their feeding times overlap. Even though Mike was home, I decided to try to feed them both by myself. Caroline is getting a bottle and Will is being fed baby food. Mike was nearby to document the event.

Octopus hands would come in handy at a time like this.

Waiting for Caroline

2008-05-31T21:10:00.005-04:00

This is a little "catch up" posting. As most of you know, the 2 weeks before I had Caroline, I was placed on strict bedrest. So, we had lots of family and friends come to help take care of Will. We have really been blessed by those who were able to come and lend a hand.

Michelle, an incredible friend, came for several days at first. She finished little projects that I had not yet done, cleaned house, cooked, and loved on Will. Michelle was releaved by my cousing Genny.

Genny, a graduate student at UGA, did a great job of cooking. I think she surprised herself.

Will was becoming a pro at sitting up on his own!

Mike's parents came up next. They took Will to the park where he had a great time!

Sliding with Grandpa

Riding the frog with Grammy.

Oh, they found a beachball.

My first Mother's Day. I sneaked out of bed to spend some time with my little man. Caroline was just kicking, waiting to come out into the world. Just 2 days to go!

The night before I left for the hospital, Will pulled up for the 1st time in his crib. I was so glad that I got to see it happen. Of course, Mike had to lower the mattress immediately. These babies are definitely going to keep up on our toes!

He is so proud of himself! Thank goodness the camera was in his room so that I could be there to keep him from diving over head first!

Visits at the hospital

2008-05-18T10:18:00.003-04:00

When Caroline was born, we were blessed with visits from many friends and family. We tried to get pictures of everyone, unfortunately, we weren't able to. Lisa, Will's fabulous babysitter, brought her two younger daughters to see sweet Caroline. We missed taking her picture, but was so grateful that she and everyone else were able to come by.

I don't know who is more tired. Caroline or me.

Jennifer and her son, Joshua came by just in time to play with Will. Her kind mother, Mrs. Smith, also came along. She has been visiting from Wisconson. Missed her picture, too.

Our most wonderful, previous neighbor, Tammie.

Oh, how we miss her and her precious family!!!

Daddy and his "baby girl."

Jenny and Scott, friends from the Atlanta Minis were so sweet to stop by to see us. It was a great surprise.

Michael, Vicki and their handsome boys, Perry and Cooper were enjoying our little Caroline.

Caroline is HERE

2008-05-15T16:22:00.009-04:00

We are proud to announce the arrival of Caroline Golden Savage!

She was born on Wednesday, May 14th at 2:45 PM. She weighed 5 pounds, 8 ounces and 19 inches long. She has light ash blonde hair. Her Mommy, Daddy and big brother, Will are very excited about having her in the family.

Caroline was born 4 weeks early. Amazingly, and to my surprise, she did not spend one minute in the NICU! She had no trouble breathing and "pinked up" immediately. We were tickled to see that she was doing so well.

Sleeping peacefully.

Daddy looks ready for action in his scrub gear. He was dressed and ready with the camera. Mike was very excited, almost like a kid around the holidays.

Here is our sweet angel with mommy. Caroline was a scheduled C-section in order to avoid previous complications. When the doctor delivered her, she was kicking like crazy, swinging her legs all over the place. (Just like she did before she was born.)

Daddy is quite taken with Caroline. He is already singing to her and telling her silly stories.

Two southern girls in pink.

And of course, a southern girl must wear bows.

Michelle and Joy with little Caroline.

More daddy time.

Will came to the hospital to visit his baby sister for the first time. While he hasn't grasped who she is, he does know she is another baby and mommy holds her a lot. Caroline looked at him peculiarly, too.

Holding both of my babies. As I held them, I couldn't believe that both of these precious children came from inside me. It was a really beautiful moment. Will just wants to get another good look at her.

Grandpa and Grandma with their new granddaughter.

Mike's sister, Jennifer. Aunt Jennifer fell in love immediately.

Everyone has been asking about the nursery for Caroline. So, here are pictures of the pink nursery she will come home to. The nursery is filled with family heirlooms that Caroline and Will will come to treasure as they grow older. Even though these family members have passed away, it is precious to be surrounded by these handmade items that were made by them with great love.

I made most of the bedding and curtains. The crocheted blanket on the crib was made by my mother when she was pregnant with me. The quilt hanging above the crib was handsewn by both of my great grandmothers when I was born.

The plates on the shelf above were handpainted by Caroline's great, great grandmother Golden.

Mike found the dresser at a thrift store, painted it, changed the legs and hardware and turned it into a beautiful changing table. The glider rocker was found at a consignment sale. It was covered with denim, I recovered it with some velvet-like, mauve fabric.

Mother's Day Reflections

2008-05-06T21:17:00.004-04:00

As my 1st Mother's Day approaches, I cannot help but reflect on my own mother, Cindy Marie Golden Martin. Born in Kansas in 1947, she passed away to be with the Lord at the young age of 57 in 2005. She was a dedicated mother and an incredible and rewarded nurse for over 35 years. Losing my mother at 32, I knew I would have a long life without her. I would have to rely on my memories of her to get through my wedding and raising babies.

When I hold my son, Will, and soon, Caroline, I recall the songs my mother sang, and the silly nicknames she called us as children. On occasion, I refer to her as Grandma Cindy, especially when my great-grandmother's clock chimes or Will sees her picture in a frame. As they grow up, I will fill their hearts with stories of their precious grandmother, so that, although they never knew her, they will in some way, know her. If she were here, she would spoil them beyond measure. I have a feeling that their Grandmother Renee, Aunts, Cousins, my sweet Step-Mother Cheryl, and close friends will take care of the spoiling.

Our daughter is expected this Wednesday, May 14th. She will be given the name, Caroline Golden. We chose Caroline, because she is a southern girl! Her middle name is in honor of her grandmother Cindy, great-grandmother, Beulah and great, great-grandmother, Wilma. It's a lovely, precious way to honor the women who came before her.

So, as my 1st Mother's Day approaches...and I find myself with an incredible son and expecting our new, beautiful daughter in just a few days, I honor my own mother, her strength, and her memory.

A picture taken in June 2005, five months before her passing.

Kicking up her heals at a country music concert. Love that pink, foam cowboy hat!

Pictures of my first moments as a mother with Will. He was so tiny and vulnerable then. Quite different from today.
I know my mom has been there throughout and will be there on Wednesday when we welcome little Caroline.

1st day at the park

2008-04-30T05:29:00.007-04:00

This past Saturday, Mike and I took Will to the local playground in a nearby town. I didn't think he would really be into it, but he surprised us and had a great time. When he starts crawling and walking, he will be all over it.

Looking cool in my baseball hat.

Such a daddy's boy.

Down the slide for the 1st time.

Look, I'm doing it by myself.

Looking back at the frog.

Ready for dinner!

Playing with Sarah

2008-04-26T14:56:00.004-04:00

Whenever I have a doctor appt, which is often these days, Will goes to Mrs. Lisa's house to play. She is a pro-mom, raising 4 beautiful children and is so great with Will. He has such a good time when he goes to their house. Lisa's daughter, Sarah, loves to play with him.

Snack time!

Snuggling with sweet Sarah

Playing "peek-a-boo" is so much fun!

A Day with Mommy and Daddy and Passover

2008-04-23T14:05:00.005-04:00

The weather was really beautiful this past Saturday, so Mike and I took Will out to enjoy the day. Later that evening, Mike's parents came up and we celebrated Passover with Will.

We had lunch at a local restaurant specializing in chocolate! Will discovered the fun of playing with a plastic cup. Oh, to be a baby again, it's the little things that bring such joy.

Loving my daddy!

After lunch, we went to a classic car show. You can just see how thrilled Will, I mean, Mike was.

This was the view from the car show. The mountains seem to be blooming.

We took a walk down a lovely garden trail next to the park.

A family picture before our new addition.

My sweet William! He loves being outside.

The Passover Sedar, also known as a special dinner, was wonderful. We celebrated with Hebrew blessings and a traditional Sedar plate. Since the Sedar begins at sundown, Will was a little tired, but he hung in there and then went to bed.

Will with Daddy, Grandma and Grandpa.

A Baby Sprinkling

2008-04-19T08:44:00.003-04:00

A faithful friend is a strong defense: and he that has found such a one, has found a treasure. - Ecclesiastes 6:14

Two of my very dearest friends came up to our home to visit with sweet Will and give me a "baby sprinkling," a small version of a shower. It was really wonderful to see them and spend such a wonderful time before our new baby comes.

This was also a celebration of Joy's big news. She's engaged! She and Terry plan to be married some time in the fall.

Will is always smiling for the camera. Oh, how he loves his Michelle and Joy!

I didn't get a good picture with her ring, but if you look really close on her left hand (next to the red heart) you can see it sparkling. It is really beautiful. Way to go, Terry!

This is a sweet, pink basket filled with special goodies for our little girl.

Michelle crocheted a gorgeous blanket for the baby. Being our first child, Will received several handmade blankets. This is the first one for our precious little girl. I can't wait to bundle her up in it.

Will is 9 months old

2008-04-11T21:56:00.005-04:00

What a week it has been for Will. He turned 9 months old on Monday and suddenly was able to things he could only attempt before. We are really able to changes in him and watch his little personality emerge. It's been fun watching his development over the past few days. Below are pictures of some of his new talents.

The weather has been really nice, so Will and I spent some time out on the front porch watching the lake and listening to the singing birds. Our dog, Tess, was never far away keeping a close eye on Will.

Here is our little stinkerfish trying to reach the cabinets. You can almost hear him saying, "Just 2 more inches, and I can get it!"

He started sitting up for longer periods of time this week. He loves playing with musical toys.

For a couple of months, we've been working on picking up cheerios so he can learn to feed himself. This week, he's finally got the hang of it and loves it.

Playing in his baby sister's room, he is trying to crawl. He tries to get up on his hands and toes.

Will was playing in the living room. He decided to roll over to the toy box and dump it for the first time. He has that, "I've been caught" look.

Trip to Asheville

2008-04-10T12:06:00.006-04:00

In the world of pregnancy, it's officially called a "Babymoon." Whatever you call it, Mike and I took the opportunity to get away together for the weekend and give Will some quality time with his Grandma and Grandpa. Last year, this same weekend, we went to Asheville while we were pregnant with Will. We loved it so much, we decided to return. Not to mention, it's close, since I'm on travel restrictions.

We spent some time getting lost in antique shops, getting Will some toys at a children's store, and shopping at my favorite yarn shop. I needed some pink yarn for our sweet little girl. Mike was a great sport about it all.

We stayed at the lovely Sourwood Inn which rests high on top of a mountain. This was the view from our room's balcony. The weather was overcast and rainy, but we made the best of it.

We saw wild turkeys everywhere! These two characters were out near the road on a trip into downtown. Not a care in the world!

Pregnancy cravings hit, so we ate lunch at the fancy Biltmore Village McDonald's. As my friend Sarah said, "It's still a quarter pounder."

Later in the afternoon, we stopped for dessert at the Rose Tea Room. This place was right out of a southern girl's dream. Mike tolerated it like a champ.

CAUGHT! Mike actually relaxing in front of the fire at the Inn. It took him a full 24 hours to let it hit him, but he finally stopped to take a deep breath.

One of the many things we love about this place is the woodburning fireplace in each guest room. Saturday night, Mike built us a warm fire.

Awww, leaving the Inn. We really love this place. But, we are so eager to get back to our little William. The break from diapers and bottles was nice, but we missed him dearly.

Two more turkeys! If you look closely, you can see that they are proudly fanning all of the feathers.

During the trip, we did some antiquing. Mike was on the hunt for an antique clock for our new baby girl's nursery. He found this beautiful 1920's clock at our last stop.

This is the clock he got for Will's nursery when he was born.

Will's 1st Easter

2008-04-04T05:37:00.004-04:00

Oh, spring, glorious spring. How we have been awaiting your arrival! What a better way to kick off spring, then to celebrate Easter. The weather was much colder than we would have liked, but it was beautiful.

Will, Mike and I dressed in our finest and headed to church for Easter services. And, of course, the Easter bunny made a visit to our house! For dinner, we had boneless leg of lamb, and homemade blueberry pie. Goodness!

This Will with one of the sweet ladies who takes care of him in the nursery. Love her Easter hat!

A family picture at church.

After lunch, Daddy worked on painting the dresser for the new baby room.

Will just played and played and watched daddy through the door.

Of course, I had to make Easter cookies. They didn't last long with giant bunnies lurking around.

Will loves his jumper thingy. He had to get a few bounces in to wear him out before bed.
Oh, daddy, pick me up again, do it again!

Whoo hoo!

A Ride in Daddy's Mini

2008-03-25T04:41:00.003-04:00

We finally had some pretty weather that was warm enough for us to take the convertable out for a drive. Since we have moved, the mini has been in storage for most of the long, cold winter. Mike was eager to take it out for a spin.

Will is nestled securely in the backseat.

My straps look good Daddy. I'm ready to go!

It's always so hard to say good-bye. Time to put the Mini away.

Mmmm. Car seat straps taste great!

Will is 8 months old

2008-03-10T20:07:00.004-04:00

Will and I took a trip "into town" (Atlanta) for a couple of dr. appointments, shopping and pictures. My doctor does not allow children, so Michelle met us there and watched Will while I was seen. I had an ultrasound and all is well with our little baby girl. Our c-section is scheduled for May 14th.

Michelle and Will waited in the parking lot while I had some blood work drawn. Will passed out.
Michelle's husband, Chris, came home from his work as an E.R. nurse, just in time to snuggle.

The next day, Will's grandma and I took him to have his 8 month pictures taken. He's not crawling yet, but he flips over like a fish. It was hard for the photographer to keep him still. You can tell in the photos that he is having a good time.

Oh, my goodness, this is one of my favorites!

A picture taken to show Will and Mommy and baby sister on the way.

My sweet little man!

Ready for spring!
Do you see my two teeth on the bottom?

V-Day and a visit from Genny

2008-02-27T14:02:00.006-05:00

Valentine's Day was a lot of fun. Will and I surprised Mike with paper hearts all of the house with sweet messages. We also baked and decorated heart cookies for Daddy's sweet tooth. Mike made dinner for us. Spiraled salmon and crab cake! YUM!

We both wore red in honor of the holiday.

Genny and her friend, Patrick, came for a visit for the weekend. Patrick was a great help to Mike in loading some things into storage and Genny just loved on little Will.
Will was in high teething mode and willing to bite down on anything. Including Aunt G!
She thoroughly enjoyed his attention.

We all played a game of scrabble. Mike won by a landslide. I came in last place!
Just hanging out with Genny.

Birthday and grandparents

2008-02-27T13:31:00.004-05:00

Ahhhh, the joy of turning, uhhhmmmm, well... let's just say, I get to check a new age-range box on official forms from now on. Anyway, it was a lovely weekend with my amazing husband and precious little boy. Mike's parents came up for the weekend as well.

Mike took me to a spa for some pampering and then to a great local restuarant for lunch where he knows the chef personally. It was nice to have a date with him again.
The chef made a sweet surprise. I could only eat a bite, but it was wonderful.

This was the gorgeous view of a harbor right outside the restuarant.

Will is in love with his grandpa! Just snapping his fingers can make Will cackle with laughter.

Grandma's first bath time with Will. He loves to splash!

More birthday cake with mommy. Oh, how he wanted a taste!
It's hard to see them go.

Superbowl Night

2008-02-12T14:58:00.000-05:00

Superbowl night at home was quiet for the most part. Will being a lover of football, or so it seems, was laid back in his exersaucer just watching the game. Mike and I were in the kitchen and caught him watching when we came in the room. I quickly tried to redirect his attention to no use. Notice the boxes still around. Unpacking takes forever!
Will loves hanging out with Daddy when there is a game on. Of course, he had to wear the Saints uniform that his favorite Uncle David got for him. Even though they weren't playing, we were all cheering for our N.O. hometown boy, Eli Manning. Go Giants!
Love that bottom!
Daddy just can't take his eyes off the game for one minute.
Mardi Gras was in the next couple of days, so that night, I made a New Orleans King Cake for Mike to take into the radio station the next day. It was yummy!

Our 1st walk around our new home

2008-02-12T14:49:00.000-05:00

We had been in our new home about a week, braving the cold weather. Okay, I was braving the cold weather. Mike secretly loved it! But for this southern Louisiana girl, it was a bit too chilly to venture outside before then. We took Will out in the new stroller. It is built for two just waiting for our new little girl's arrival.
Will was dressed like a snow bunny. He couldn't move anything, but he was warm!
The new stroller is a dream on tough terrain.
The view of the lake from our front yard. The water level is still very low due to the drought, but should begin to rise in the spring.
Our new home.

The Move Weekend

2008-02-09T19:21:00.000-05:00

Our moving weekend was a roller coaster! We planned to move on a Saturday that ended up bringing 5 inches of snow to our area. So, the move was postponed for another week. But then, all of sudden, the move was back on for the next day, Sunday. Whooo!

Snow at our old house.
Tess loves being a snow dog! Will stayed inside.
The beautiful view from the front door.
Waking up on Sunday. We didn't know that this would be "moving day" until 2 hours later.
Tess enjoying the warmth of indoors.

The moving truck arrived at 11:30. The temperature was in the low 20's.

It was so cold at our new house. 17 degrees! With both doors open for the movers to bring everything in, Will and I bundled up and headed to the only place open at 8:00 on a Sunday night in our little town....McDonald's. We stayed there for warmth until the movers were done.

Here is the aftermath. Our living room. If you look closely, you can find Will playing in his exersaucer by the fireplace. He had to be thinking, "what in the world is going on?"

Boxes, boxes and more boxes!
Our sweet friend Joy came all the way up from Atlanta to help do some furniture arranging. Of course, a little loving on Will was in order.

Quick update

2008-02-05T13:36:00.001-05:00

As most of you know, we have moved to the mountains of North Carolina. Our internet situation has been very difficult with limited ability to get online. Therefore, the blog has not been updated for a while. I am currently typing this from Mike's computer at the radio station. As soon as we are more dependently online, I will update more.

Will is doing well and getting used to his new home. Our Lab, Tess, loves the lake. It's just a little colder than momma would like. We love you all and will be back in touch soon.

Dinner with Michelle and Chris

2008-01-15T15:55:00.001-05:00

Michelle and her husband, Chris, came up for a visit and to take care of Will while Mike and I headed to a Dr. appt. I met Michelle in college. She has been a precious and life long friend ever since. We are so proud of Chris. He just completed a nursing program and will begin working at a large Atlanta hospital this week. I know my mother is secretly smiling from above.

Will was just dying to put Chris's thumb in his mouth.

Michelle and Will have quite a love affair going.

Packing and visits from family

2008-01-15T15:40:00.000-05:00

Our move to NC is getting closer by the minute. Our daily activities revolve around Will and packing. It's a little nuts.

I couldn't resist putting Will in a box. He seemed to enjoy it.

Genny packed like a champ. She deserves a moment to catch her breath.

Dinner time for Will. Grandma's 1st time feeding him.

Will is completely in love with his Grandpa!

The feeling is quite mutual!

We were so lucky to have a visit from Aunt Debbie. This is my sweet brother's wife who was in Atlanta for a conference.

Shopping for the new baby

2008-01-07T20:24:00.000-05:00

Now that we know our new baby is a girl, it was time to pick out a crib and few other things. Since we were at a store in Athens, home of the GA Bulldogs, my cousin Genny joined us for the day. Will found a bulldog to beat up. Tee hee.

Will had to try out all the cool stuff. This newborn sleep center was a big hit. Will could have stayed there all day.

Ahhhh, how he loves his Aunt G! Of course, he is wearing his LSU shirt proudly.

We're not sure who liked this stroller more, Will or Daddy. Mike was most impressed with it's wheel shocks. Just like a real car! I know he secretly wishes he could get in it and buzz around. Thank goodness it comes in a double version. We will certainly need it!

A visit to Level Grove Elementary

2008-01-07T15:38:00.000-05:00

As often is the lot in life of teachers, they had to return to work while their students enjoyed one more day off. So, with the school relatively germ free, we went for a visit to see some old friends. These are some of the sweet ladies that I worked last year when I was still teaching.

This is Lynn, she teaches 1st grade and has 2 wonderful little boys.

This is sweet Cindy who teaches Reading Recovery students.

Lynn, Tonya (illustrious art teacher), Aimee (1st grade), and Cindy.

Will is quite content in Cindy's arms after his bottle.

Super mommy, Aimee has 3 beautiful girls and is expecting another precious baby in June!

Oh, how I wish I could take off and walk!

Happy 2008

2008-01-03T15:07:00.000-05:00

For the past 3 years, we have been blessed by having the privilege of spending New Year's Eve with a sweet couple, Michael and Vicki, who have been friends with Mike for several years. Michael was the best man in our wedding. Vicki always puts out a great spread and has many more of their friends over. It's always so much fun and this year was no exception. Thanks, guys, for such a great time.

Vicki holding sweet Will who was tired and ready to sleep!

This was so funny. I was trying to rock him to sleep when Vicki's dog barked. Instead of being scared, Will thought it was hilarious. He just cackled and laughed every time their dog barked.

Mike, Michael, Vicki and Will

Michael and Vicki's youngest son, Cooper, getting ready to light sparklers.

Their older son, Perry.

Handsome boys waiting for the chocolate fountain to get started. Cooper, Perry and their friend, Avery.

Tired, new parents. Ready for the long drive home. Notice the lovely drool stain on my sleeve. It's become my signature trademark.

A Fun Day with Daddy and friends

2008-01-03T14:51:00.000-05:00

We started the day with some fun playtime in the bouncer. Will looks like a little tap dancer in this thing. It is really so funny. He just spins around studying the floor and chewing on his firefly while Mommy cooks.

Mike and I went to visit some friends, Jenny and Scott, who are also Mini-Cooper owner and enthusiasts. Scott was really helpful in putting in Mike's new Mini engine part thingy that Santa brought him. Will thought their garage was quite interesting. Scott has an incredible, professional set-up.
Awww, Will is such a daddy's boy! Tired after a long, fun day.

Christmas Morning

2007-12-28T09:17:00.000-05:00

Santa came, mommy! Of course, Will is too little to really care, but it was fun to imagine him in a couple of years. He is just starting to get the idea that there is something under the bows and paper.

A water toy for the highchair.

I can help, mommy!

Oh, I love these soft, squishy animals Daddy gave me.

Another one!

Thank you, Joshua!

Daddy's turn

Genuinely surprised. Like a little boy!

Santa brought presents for the girls, too!

Boy, I love this elephant!

A quick family picture and then time for a nap and football!

Christmas Eve

2007-12-27T09:08:00.000-05:00

We headed to Candlelight Christmas Eve service at 1st Baptist Church of Cornelia. It was a wonderful time of celebration and beautiful music. Will was very well behaved and the received lots of love from everyone.
1st Baptist Church of Cornelia, GA at sunset. Beautiful!
Sweet Will glad to be home.
Our little reindeer had to get a little playtime in before bed.
The things mommas do to their babies! Reindeer antlers....too funny!

Getting ready for Santa

2007-12-23T22:27:00.000-05:00

It's almost time for Santa. I don't know who is more excited, little Will (who really could care less) or his momma and daddy. It is so fun to share the holiday for the first time with our new little man. I couldn't resist setting him in front of the Christmas tree for pictures.

Time for Cookies!

This is the spread I set up for decorating. It takes hours, but I love every minute of it, until they are eaten. All that hard work, gobbled up in two seconds!
Of course, Daddy had to have the first two cookies.

Will seemed to be entralled with the beating and stirring of the mixer.No Christmas would be complete without driving around to see the local lights. These reindeer were part of a sweet little display in a local park near our home. Will slept through the whole thing. One day, we will hear his little "ooo's and ahhh's."

It's a baby girl

2007-12-21T21:33:00.000-05:00

Here is an ultrasound of our newest baby expected in May. We had a brief ultrasound this morning. You could call it an early Christmas present. The baby has a perfect little profile and looks to be in great health with a strong heartbeat.

If you look closely, you can see the baby's hand and fingers just above the nose. Too cute! And...... It looks like our new sweetheart will be able to use these precious pink shoes. It's a girl!!! I cried with joy when the technician told us. Mike will proudly tell you that he knew it was a girl all along. He will have a daddy's little girl and I will have someone to teach how to cook, knit and dress in bows. And even better, she will have a wonderful, big brother, Will, to look after her. We couldn't be more thrilled.

In three weeks, I will be seeing a high-risk maternity specialist for a detailed, in-depth ultrasound. However, there is nothing for us to worry about. Because of Will's premature birth, the doctors are just being extra cautious and watching the pregnancy closely. We thank you in advance for your kind and loving thoughts and prayers.

Our home during the holidays

2007-12-20T10:06:00.000-05:00

It's beginning to look alot like Christmas around here. Since this is our last Christmas in this house, it is a special one. We are planning to move to North Carolina, near the GA state line sometime in January. We will be living on the lake! Our new address and info will be sent via regular mail in the near future.

Naturally, this is our tree. I really do love the smell and feel of a real one, but there is a special joy in plugging in a pre-lit tree. No sap and prickly fingers.
This is a wreath hanging on the foyer mirror to greet all of our guests.This is my sweet little Louisiana Cajun tree. It has red peppers, straw hats, painted Santa okra, and tiny Tabasco hot sauce bottles. I love it so!
This is our mantle, with the fire going strong. Three stockings this year. Next year, there will be four! Oh my!

Daily Essentials

2007-12-20T09:49:00.000-05:00

All in a day's work!

Play Time: Will is becoming more and more active. He is 5 1/2 months old now and is discovering the joy of play! He loves playing in his exersaucer. He always aims to get everything in his mouth. Teeth must be on their way. Maybe Santa will bring a tooth for Christmas.

Nap Time: Another daily essential. Will still naps about 3 times a day. Waking up is always fun.
Soooo sleepy!
Oh, hey mommy!

Bath Time: Not everyday, but definitely needed tonight. He seems to love bath time and has never cried. However, he's not a fan of hair washing.

Time for PJ's with Daddy

Happy Hanukkah

2007-12-12T10:17:00.000-05:00

Being an interfaith family, we celebrate both Hanukkah and Christmas. This year, Hanukkah surprised us by being early. It began on the evening of the 4th and ended 8 days later. I always love Hanukkah because of the beautiful Menorah. We light a new candle each night of Hanukkah until all eight candles are burning brightly. The center candle is the "helper" candle. We use it to light the others.

Will finally stayed awake long enough in the evening to open his presents. He's inspecting a present from grandma and grandpa.

This past Saturday, we had our Hanukkah dinner at our home. It was wonderful to have Mike's mom and dad and my cousin Genny there. Will even sat at the table with everyone. The menu included: Beignets (fried New Orlean's style donuts), Beef Tenderloin, Scalloped Potatoes, Broccoli Cheese Casserole, steamed cauliflower, Latkes and Applesauce and finally homemade Caramel Apple Cheesecake. YUM!

Will was just hanging back wondering what all the fuss was about.

Seeing Santa Claus

2007-12-06T12:49:00.000-05:00

What I want for Christmas...
Will went to see Santa Claus for the 1st time yesterday. While he's only 5 months old, he seemed to really enjoy it. Santa was able to make him laugh. It was really so precious to see.

Will told Santa that he wanted some toys to chew on and a new baby sister in the spring. Santa said he would see what he could do.

This Santa was great. He gave out Lindt chocolates. Mommy had to eat them for Will. Tee hee hee.