On our Hill-Side

And the Cherry on Top...

2012-02-03T06:43:00.000-08:00

of our Sickness Sundae:

Now, I have pink eye!!! Surely this is the cherry on top, right?!

January Blues

2012-01-31T07:19:00.000-08:00

This month has seriously been the longest.month.ever. I can't believe it is finally January 31st...and I'm hoping tomorrow brings a better, healthier February to our family. We're still battling illnesses, taking multiple trips to the Dr's office, and staying up all night with babies. But today I was reminded by mom that the Lord never gives us more than we can handle, and that "this too shall pass."

Hold on. Seriously. The daycare is calling...

That is where I was yesterday, but today it is February...and I'm still there...we still have sickness running ramped through our family. The daycare was calling to say that Tanner was running a 101.4 degree fever. So, I left my office, called the Dr.'s office and took her in. And, she has RSV. My poor, sweet, little girl. We've been up for about 4 days now, or at least it feels like we haven't slept at all. But, our precious little girl just smiles. So, again today, I'm going to remember healthier, more sleep-filled times. She has seriously spoiled us...she has been sleeping through the night since she was about 8 weeks old. And, since I'm still behind, this will be a 3 for 1 post.

Get well soon sweet princess!

“For our light and momentary troubles are achieving for us an eternal glory that far outweighs them all” (2 Corinthians 4:17, NIV)

Eventually, Maybe, Hopefully...

2012-01-19T11:59:00.000-08:00

To be perfectly honest, I'm tired; well, tired doesn't fully encompass my state of being right now...let's try exhausted, and maybe if it's in italics it will somewhat get my point across! I know women are biologically designed to be multi-taskers, and most of the time, I feel like I handle this gift fairly well. But right now, today, I don't feel like I am coping. I'm not complaining...I asked for this, and I'm grateful for these kiddos, but I'm just trying a refreshingly honest approach to writing about motherhood. Within the last week and a half, my oldest precious baby, TJ, turned 7; our youngest infected us with the stomach virus which first started with her, traveled to me, then to Tristan; Tristan began pulling at his ears, so on to the Dr. since I had to take off work anyway...double ear infection and strep throat; better check the baby since we are already there...double ear infection and thank the good Lord, no strep; sinus infection for me; antibiotics for all 3 of us and did I mention how fun and easy it is to give antibiotics to a 3 month old?; fast forward to Friday, TJ gets hit with the stomach bug...up all night until 4 a.m. every.thrity.minutes. Oh wait, did I also mention how antibiotics mess with a baby's bowel system and I have 2 on antibiotics. I've never seen so much poop, dirty laundry, and throw up in all my life!

All of this throwing up, rushing around, rarely eating a warm meal...I should be skinny. Why am I not skinny? Oh, I think I vaguely remember swinging by McDonald's at 7pm on my way home twice last week when Thomas had away basketball games. And, I somewhat remember using my right hand to scarf down a Big Mac, while nursing a baby using my left arm, and I'm sure I was using the assistance of my big toe to pick up something off of the floor for my needy middle child.

Mental note: Need to choose Subway, not McD's!

I feel so overwhelmed with everything that needs to be done at home and even at work that I'm on multi-task overload, so today I choose to remember Christmas. The precious excited little faces on Christmas morning, the beautiful Christmas Cantata Service at Church, and fun time spent with family. Maybe I'll eventually get caught up...in everything...but until then I shall sink back and reminisce:

Christmas Eve Dinner

Leaving food for Santa and his reindeer:

In Christmas PJ's ready to be nestled all snug in their beds:

Christmas Morning Smiles:

Anatomy 101

2011-12-20T07:36:00.001-08:00

Are you a college kid struggling to keep up in your Anatomy class? Well, just come on over to the Hill house and study with us! Most days, I feel like I'm one of those people on the Discovery channel, walking around with only the goods covered (if you're lucky), while people stare at me. Except for these people are in my own house...I am not sheltered from the humiliation by a television screen! I cannot seem to go to the restroom, take a shower, get dressed, or heck, brush my teeth without little peeping Tom's peering around a corner or grabbing at my legs.

I feel like a cow most days. Not that ever feeling like a cow is a good thing, but I guess I mean that in the best possible way. I am still feeding Tanner, and since starting back to work, I have to use an electric breast pump. At home, anytime Tristan hears me tell his Dad that I need to pump, he runs as fast as his little legs will go to the bathroom, asks me to "cose" the potty, pulls himself up on the lid and sits eagerly awaiting me to turn it on. Once I turn on the pump and the methodical rhythm starts sounding, Tristan grins and begins bouncing up and down saying "dance, dance, dance!" Wow, a breast pump/radio...how cool is that?!

Since bringing Tanner home from the hospital, we've had several "teaching" moments. The first diaper change TJ watched, he was curious, so he asked "Where's her peepee...I see her balls...but, where's her peepee?" Balls?! Who wants to explain that one?!

And certainly not the last that I could share, or the least, here are a few videos for your enjoyment. I wanted to remember how Tristan sounds so sweetly and the cute way he says words, so I recorded him naming body parts:

After my video, TJ wanted to do the recording and ask Tristan to name his body parts. See if you can catch the difference in what I asked vs. what TJ asked! And I just love how excited Tristan gets at the answer ;) I guess I should've waited until he was out of the bath tub!

Hysterical. You're welcome.

Holiday Happenings

2011-12-19T13:43:00.000-08:00

Well, Christmas season is in full swing, and we are bustling around like the crazy people we are!

We've had school Christmas programs (don't look so excited TJ!):

We've had church Christmas programs with hilarious pictures to show:

We've had class Christmas parties with good, quality ,Santas:

We've had lots of fun at the Merry-go-Round:

And, most importantly, we've been blessed to spend it with each other:

"I key eww!"

2011-12-07T06:35:00.000-08:00

Disciphering a 20 month old's speech is like playing that game where you read the card of words that don't make sense together, but when read out loud and quickly, sound like a phrase that makes perfect sense. I'm only going on a few hours of sleep today, so I can't remember the name of that game right this second...maybe it will come to be by the end of this post?! But, Tristan is really talking now. Sometimes I think he is just talking to hear himself (sounds like another Hill-boy I know)! Most of the time, I know what he is trying to say or what he wants. But, I'm hoping I disciphered wrong the other night! I was giving him a bath, when he looked at me with this (kind of) creepy grin, shot his little arm towards me, and said "I key eww. I key eww. I key eww." Say it out loud to yourself...did you come up with the same thing I did? I totally think he was saying "I kill you!" Look at this sweet face:
It doesn't say, "I'll kill my mommy," right???

Come to think of it, he does try to get me to leave his baby sister in the car when I get home. The other day, I took him into the house first, and when I turned around to head back to get Tanner out of the car, Tristan closed the garage door, stood in front to guard the exit, and said "No Sissy!"

Being the oldest sibling, I always thought the "middle child syndrome" was just a made up thing for needy middle children (sorry to middle children that I'm offending right now)to get more attention, but I'm beginning to think that maybe it's a real syndrome!

Oh, I got it! The name of that game is Mad Gab! Knew it would come to me. Well, I lied. It didn't exactly come to me...I googled it! I'm tired. Forgive me.

Halloween in December

2011-12-06T11:10:00.001-08:00

You've surely heard of Christmas in July, so what's not to love about a little Halloween in December?! Still playing catch up, but don't want to miss posting about the cute costumes.

TJ decided to be a vampire this year:

Tristan loves Elmo, so we went with it:

I tried for a few days to get him to try on his Elmo suit, but he didn't understand he was supposed to wear Elmo. He just carried it around like his other Elmo. Once the Trick-or-Treating started, he realized that he got to have lots of candy if he wore Elmo. As I've mentioned before, Tristan loves to eat...and just discovered that he is a choco-holic! I think we've found his new favorite holiday!

Tanner was some sort of cat...not sure if it is supposed to be a leopard or cheetah, but I don't think either are grey in color?!

Happy Haunting!

Catching Up...

2011-11-30T13:23:00.000-08:00

Well, Miss Tanner is here...and I'm playing catch up! I think this is going to become a permanent state for me! My house needs a catch up cleaning day; I started back to work this Monday...and am definitely playing catch up; my social life (not that there has been much of that anyway) needs some girl-time catch up; and my husband and I pass each other running from one end of the house to the other and we could most certainly use the catch up time! But, we wouldn't trade this time in our lives for anything...as we already realize that it is flying by way too fast. Our little girl is already 6 weeks old and I am just now getting around to blogging about her for the first time! So without further a do, here she is...our little Princess:
I decided to start my maternity leave on Friday, the 14th to get everything in order (you would think I might have already been prepared since she was so late already...nope). I started feeling random contractions throughout the day, but nothing regular. I even went to the first half of Thomas' football game. I started getting uncomfortable at the game and noticed the contractions starting to become regular, so I headed home, hoping they wouldn't progress before Thomas finished his game. He called immediately after, and I told him he needed to head home! So, after being 8, E.I.G.H.T., days late, I figured she would make her big appearance quickly...not so much. After 14 hours of labor...all night long, no drugs, no sleep she finally showed up! Tanner Emilee was born at 10:08 am on 10/15. She weighed 8 lbs 2 oz and was 20" long. And all was forgiven and forgotten (well, not totally forgotten)! The first thing the doctor said was "Big Girl!" She immediately ate for 45 minutes straight!

Here are a few more pictures taken by Jessica Mitchell Photography of Tanner at 5 days old.

Check List

2011-10-10T07:00:00.001-07:00

40 Weeks (past). Check.
Nursery ready. Check.
Tristan settled in new bed. Check.
Clothes washed. Check.
Hospital bag packed. Check.
Thomas' biggest game of the year played. Check.
Work in order for maternity leave. Check.
House clean (never gonna happen anyway, so...) Check.
Grocery shopping done for week. Check.
Laundry done...for the moment. Check.
Not sleeping. Check.
Emotionally exhausted. Check.
Eaten spicy foods. Check.
Ridden over speed bumps. Check.
Taken long walks. Check.

Either this little lady is extremely stubborn (like we need any more stubbornness in our family), or she is really laid back. Thomas says she is already acting like a woman by showing up late! Not sure what the hold up is...but I'm pretty sure it's not on my end...I've already cried twice today so I think my hormones are doing their job! To be honest, I'd be scared to come home to our house, with these boys...but they really are sweet and relatively harmless...I promise! I've been told the full moon is Tuesday night, so maybe that'll work?!

Who said boys don't do pink?

2011-09-23T08:03:00.000-07:00

Thomas and his team had a pep-rally yesterday for their game against Chambers. During the player's introductions, Coach Sikes asked if Thomas would come down and introduce some of them as well. When he came down to the microphone, all of the players followed with a sea of PINK gifts! I wish I could've been there to see his face...Thomas was so surprised. What a thoughtful and dare I say, sweet, group of guys! We are so blessed to be a part of the Springwood Family!

We already had the cute face in the back...he didn't come in pink ;-)

Procrastination...with a capital "P."

2011-09-16T11:43:00.000-07:00

Or, maybe the 37th week (considered full-term) pregnancy has just slipped up on me! Maybe I'm still in denial that in 3 weeks from today, or less, we will have THREE children...and they're all mine! But, I'm not ready...well, let me rephrase that...I am ready, but nothing else is ready for Tanner's arrival! I have managed to wash enough clothes for her to make it about 1 week at home. I have washed the sheets for her bed...but, that's it! When I was pregnant with Tristan, I felt like he was waiting to make his appearance until I was finished getting everything prepared. Well, if Tanner holds out for the same reasons, I could possibly be in the Guiness Book of World Records for the longest pregnancy EVER! We still haven't moved Tristan out of the baby bed...yes, I know, this could prove to be difficult...and yes, I know, we should've done this a tad bit earlier! No excuse...ok, well it is football season, and I am a coach's widow with 2 small children...is that pathetic enough?! So, since Tristan isn't out of the nursery yet, I haven't put her bedding up, or redecorated with girly touches. The turtles are still on the walls, which may or may not be easily removed, so I figure...newborns can only see like 8 inches away from their faces for a few weeks...she won't know the difference between flowers and turtles!

Went to the Dr. yesterday, and he said he didn't think she would grace us this weekend...so, maybe we can get a few things done Saturday morning. I'll update on my progress, but don't hold your breath.

I looked like some sort of a melon, but...

2011-08-29T07:07:00.000-07:00

it wasn't my day! This past weekend, my sister Blair, got hitched in Nashville. I was honored to be her Matron of Honor, and TJ was the ring bearer. After a looooong 7 1/2 hour drive up (it should only take 5-ish), the weekend was lots of fun! We had luncheons, surprised the Bride with a lingerie shower, rehearsals, dinners, and a wedding! The Bride was a picture of perfection...she was absolutely stunning! And I managed to stay on my feet for the entire ceremony, without tumbling down the stairs with bowling ball type action! So, all in all, I would say the wedding was a success! Then, we headed to the reception...it was so awesome! They had a fair/carnival like theme to the reception. There were photo booths with props, a popcorn machine, pinwheels, an ice cream bar (and root beer floats). After my toast (yes, I actually managed to do this without barfing), we had a blast!
Most of the Bradberry cousins

Tristan enjoyed saying "cheese"

I love this picture...they look so sweet!

A little mustache action

No champagne for Tristan...I promise!

TJ crashed at the reception...too much excitement!

Daddy & the Party Animal with the Bride

It was such a fun weekend, and I miss everyone already! Congrats Blair & Dave!!!

Something Happens When Your Mom Makes You Wear Pink...

2011-08-22T07:16:00.000-07:00

...you're either a girly-girl, or you refuse to wear pink until you reach 25! I, of course, chose not to wear pink, or anything frilly for that matter, once I could dress myself! I think I was a relatively easy child to raise, but this was most likely some sort of rebellion on my part...at least this was the worst of it, right?! So, just to make my mom feel better, I'm going to dress my little girl in as much PINK as I possibly can! And, if she turns out to hate pink, then so be it...at least I get to dress her for a few short years!

My friends & family celebrated our sweet baby girl this Saturday! We had so much fun just hanging out, and ohhing & ahhing over the sweet baby clothes! I am so thankful to have such sweet people to share my joy with!

The 2 most excited grandmothers...they can't wait for a little GIRL!

I don't ususally allow this, but this is me and Tanner at 33 weeks.

Just a few of the sweet outfits Miss Tanner will show off soon!

Thomas and I are so blessed to have such a wonderful group of family and friends. Thank you all so much for your love and support! And, as promised...this is the LAST time ;)

Still Adjusting, but Doing Well

2011-08-17T08:39:00.000-07:00

Well, we are making it...a week and a half into the new school year, and things are looking good. Both boys seem to be adjusting well to their new classrooms.

We were a little worried that it was going to be difficult for TJ to understand that he had to act like KK was just his teacher at school, but he seems to be doing well. I think KK has been pleasantly surprised at how well he has handled it. We asked him how he liked having her as his teacher, and he said "I like it, but it's a little weird! Everyone knows that she's my KK...but it's ok." He has been doing well with all of the homework, and has been getting it done in After School Care most days. My favorite quote of the week was on the 2nd day of school, TJ told KK "This homework is LAME! I need to be challenged!" I just told her to be thankful he said it AFTER school ;)

Tristan, who's not keen on any form of change, seems to be doing well in his new class too. I love that they only take one nap instead of two, that way he actually naps rather than stealing his teacher's lunch!

First football game is this Friday, so we're all (mainly me) still adjusting to Daddy being late every night. Hopefully we'll get back to into our school routine soon...just in time for little miss to get here and make for some more adjusting!

First Day of School

2011-08-08T12:08:00.000-07:00

TJ has been somewhat dreading the start of school this year, which is kind of odd considering he's only going into the 1st Grade! You would think he wouldn't dread going to school at least until 2nd Grade! And, he's got to be the luckest 1st Grader ever...he gets to have his KK as his teacher...how awesome is that?! I think it's just his lazy streak (which his dad says comes from his Uncle Mike...sorry Uncle Mike)! The only thing he has worried about is ALL of the homework he will have to do this year. But, come this morning, he was excited to put on his new shoes, new back pack, and start the 1st Grade!

Here he is with his First Grade Teacher, Mrs. Hill!

It was also Thomas' first day of school, with students! And, Tristan moved up to his big-boy class at daycare this morning! Here they all are on their first day:

And, as always, Tristan likes to start off his new class with...a little snack!

Chunky Monkey

2011-08-04T08:53:00.001-07:00

Tristan has been dubbed the "Chunky Monkey." Not necessarily because of his full baby figure, but more for his LOVE of eating. He has just turned 16 months old, and there isn't much this little boy won't eat. One of his favorite foods is broccoli...he shoves it in by the handfuls. He also begs for lettuce anytime I eat salad. He loves any kind of fruit; has been known to eat anything off of the grill, whether it be a steak or chicken. So, as you can see he's not picky...at all! And of course, what kid doesn't like junk food: cake, cookies, french fries, etc? But, I am now beginning to get a little worried since this came home on his daily report from daycare:
I did ask "Where did he get McDonald's?" She said, "Well, it was my lunch! He would point his little finger at whatever he wanted!"

Don't get me wrong, I'm happy that he has a good appetite, that I don't have to force-feed him (like I do TJ), that he eats foods that are nutritious (mostly), and isn't picky in the least.

We all kind of laugh, and joke about his never-ending quest for food, but could it be something more serious? Maybe he doesn't have that natural feeling of fullness? I REALLY don't want to wake up one day to my 500 lb toddler, snacking on my arm!
Scary thought.

Epi-pin Please?

2011-07-27T08:18:00.000-07:00

Not many cute pictures to share over this past month seeing as we've been too busy with ugly red bumps, swollen ankles (and not from this pregnant lady)...allergic reactions all around; however I did jam my finger saving this cute face from smashing into the floor while head diving off of the couch:

I was also able to squeeze in a "date" night with my TJ. So I did manage one more cute picture this month:

First it started with Thomas getting attacked by yellow jackets while mowing the lawn. He was stung twice on his ankle, once on his arm, and once on the inside of this thigh...little did we know, he must be allergic to them:

The next week we noticed TJ had a rash on his legs and elbows (weird, it was just on his elbows, huh?). He had gotten into some poison ivy, we assume; and once again, we didn't know he was allergic:

Finally (surely this is enough for one month), Tristan came down with strep throat and a double ear infection. After an early Saturday morning visit to the Dr's office, and 2 days on antibiotics, he broke out all over his head, chest, and back...so returning to the Dr. on Tuesday we learn...he's allergic to the antibiotics! YAY...and as TJ would say, "you're being sarcastic, right Mom?!" Sorry, no picture of this unpleasant and unsightly rash, and after those 2 previous pictures, you could use something cute:

Hopefully August will be filled with awesome pictures from my sister's wedding such as this one of TJ trying on his suit:

Or, adorable "First Friday of School" pictures since my first day of school pictures never turn out well, such as this one from last year:

Ready for August...I'll bring the Epi-pin, you bring the Benedryl! See you then!

Shake Your Groove Thang...Yea, Yea

2011-07-11T06:47:00.000-07:00

Saturday, I headed to Atlanta to co-host a bridal shower for my one and only sister. Blair lives in California (for now...hopefully we can get them down south soon), and is getting married next month in Nashville. So, we were able to get some girls together and squeeze in a quick little shower; and it was so fun! When I got home that afternoon, I realized I needed to get the boys prepared for what was to come. We got the radio out, turned the volume up, and got our groove on...

Get ready Nashville, 'cause the Hills are ready to Drop it like it's HOT!

And the criminal strikes again

2011-07-01T07:43:00.000-07:00

I know, he appears cute, sweet, and innocent...even cuddly at times, but don't be fooled by this lifetime criminal....first he murdered my carpet, now he's been caught again...this time stealing! And, he's good at it; he's like one of those Ocean's 11 guys: a conniving, smart, well-thought out planning kind of thief. He starts his mission like a shark, circling his prey...around and around, stalking them and watching their every move, until he comes up with his perfect plan of attack. His prey, always being his big brother, who has unknowingly fallen into his trap. TJ sits on the floor, watching cartoons, while eating his breakfast on a stool. The hardened criminal scopes out his target:Upon noticing his prey is completely engulfed in cartoons, he squats down directly in front of him with stealthy motion. Once in position, he slowly pulls the stool away from TJ. Finally, TJ partially comes back to reality, and pulls the stool back, at this point Tristan realizes his plan has worked out perfectly. He grabs for the plate, and swipes TJ's last 2 pieces of waffle...SUCCESS!

WARNING: there is a blue eyed, blonde haired, chunky baby on the loose...he's been caught twice, and is suspected armed, with 12 teeth, and dangerous...don't let him get too close!

Fun in the Sun Father's Day

2011-06-21T08:35:00.000-07:00

What more could a man want for Father's Day? Seriously, Thomas has a HOT (Really hot...it's summer), moody, tired, pregnant wife and 2 sweet, wild monkeys...I meant boys. So, he thought we could all use a relaxing Father's Day weekend at the lake...

Ok, enough of that relaxing stuff...who has time for that?!

Tristan's First Jet Ski ride

TJ's First Time Skiing

As if all of that wasn't enough to spoil our sweet Daddy, we gave him Brave's tickets to the game this Wednesday!

Happy Father's Day to the Best Dad Ever...thanks for making our lives so rich with blessings...and as TJ says, "3 babies are enough!!!" We love you!

May...in a nutshell

2011-06-09T06:22:00.000-07:00

It's now June, so once again, I'm trying to play catch up. Maybe it's the heat, or being 22 weeks pregnant, or maybe I'm just lazy...but, I'm exhausted! Or, maybe May has just been so jam packed, that I haven't had time to do much of anything "extra!"

We've had the carpet murder scene occur in mid-May:

We've had baseball games galore:

We've tried to stay cool in this 100 degree heat...in MAY!:

We've had a visit from cousins:

TJ "graduated" kindergarten:

And finally, we completed May with Memorial Day weekend at the beach:

Oh wait! And one more thing: Did I mention we found out Baby #3 is a GIRL?!

5x7 Folded Card

2011-06-03T13:34:00.001-07:00

Daddy Love Father's Day 5x7 folded card

Tell them you love them with Shutterfly Valentines cards.

View the entire collection of cards.

If the glove don't fit...

2011-05-18T06:07:00.001-07:00

You must acquit! At least that was what happened to O.J. Simpson...not sure about the culprit in this case!

After a fairly normal start to our day, this quickly became the scene in my house...

...which led to little, size 3 shoe prints through my CARPETED bedroom and into my kitchen...which is where I found the suspect, with blood-red hands, leaning over the broken nail polish bottle!

After arresting the suspect, and placing him in custody:

I diligently worked to clean up the crime scene. After a bottle of nail polish remover, and little high from the fumes, all that remains of the evidence are the red stains on my carpet.

Here, in America, you are innocent until proven guilty, so I'll leave this up to the jury, innocent or guilty???

And the Streak is...

2011-05-04T07:13:00.001-07:00

BROKEN! The Hill, family of boys, is no longer! We are so excited that we get to add a little pink to all of this blue! I kind of had a feeling that it was a girl, but still couldn't believe it when the ultrasound tech said the words..."It's a GIRL!" We had a boy's name picked out and ready to go, so I guess we have some discussing to do and will get back to you on Baby Girl's name.

Just for all of you non-believers (uhem...Uncle Mike)

And, a much sweeter picture

Thomas was so excited, he smiled all day! He said, "I finally get my Daddy's little girl!" Then, his next order of business was to discuss at what age she would be allowed to wear makeup! Oh my...the many battles us two girls have ahead of us ;)

April Showers...

2011-05-02T08:01:00.001-07:00

Well, it's May already, and since I've been blog-lazy, I'll just post some pics from April.

April began with Thomas' 29th Birthday...I LOVE this picture (my life in a nutshell)

The Thursday before Easter, TJ's class had their Easter party. I was a "Party Mom." It was a lot of fun, and I really enjoyed the following conversation while driving TJ and 2 friends to the egg hunt.

Little Boy: "Thomas' Mom...did you know it's bad to drink and drive?"

Me: "Yes, I did...and it's illegal too!"

Little Boy: "Well, guess what? This morning on the way to school, I saw a man driving and guess what he was doing? He was drinking; he was drinking a coke!"

On Good Friday, we went to the Atlanta Zoo. I didn't get too many pics, since I spent the majority of the day doing this:

Happy Easter!

Sorry, no pics in our Easter best! See ya later~

What Not to Say...Pop Quiz

2011-04-18T11:59:00.001-07:00

Please take your time and think about each question...there is no time limit for this pop quiz.

Which of the following reactions when told that Thomas and I are expecting our 3rd (and FINAL)baby belong to:

A) Nana
B) TJ
C) Everyone we know
D) Granny
E) Thomas' fellow Springwood coaches

1. Wide, open mouth stares, followed by laughter.

2. "Thomas, you need to get her sterilized!"

3. "Oh my gosh...how are you going to afford daycare?!"

4. "You do know how this happens, right?!"

5. "You already have 3 babies, and that's enough...Thomas, Tristan, and Daddy!"

After you have completed the exam, scroll down to grade your own paper.

1. C) Everyone we know
2. D) Granny (previously famous...and adding to the stock of Granny-isms every day)
3. A) Nana
4. E) Thomas' fellow Springwood coaches
5. B) TJ

Sweets and treats and lots of fun...

2011-04-08T08:06:00.000-07:00

...Let’s celebrate as Tristan turns One!

We celebrated Tristan's first birthday with family at our house last Friday. We ate pizza, then it was time for the cake!

He wasn't quite sure what to do...

He played in the icing and tasted a few small bites...

And then the fun began!

OH NO...

2011-04-05T08:29:00.000-07:00

it's the BIG 3-0! I turned 30 on March 15th...and believe it or not, I wasn't taking it too bad. I guess I am satisfied in my old age, and life at 30. I mean, what do I have to be unhappy about?!

But, my sneakier than sneaky husband, couldn't leave well enough alone. He just LOVES that I am a year older than he is (even stooping to call me his "cougar"). For 2 weeks out of the year, it even appears that I am a whopping 2 years older than he...which truly delights him. However, I must say, that since I go first in all of the birthday milestones, he better watch out because payback is...well, you all know what it is! All kidding aside, I know he means well and wants to make every occasion memorable. So, SURPRISE to me!

My brother had come to our house Saturday because he said he was bored since all of his friends were spring breaking. We played Wii and basketball until all were hungry. Thomas had every last detail planned, and even asked where I wanted to go for dinner! Knowing that I would pick El Rio, and fall right into his trap! I had wanted to go there earlier in the week, and since he goes with my "suggestions" 99.9% of the time, I was really disappointed when he had turned my idea down. But, I never caught on...never had a clue! My mom and both brothers were there (Tyler had driven from Dothan), my in-laws (even Micheal...who was on Spring Break- and Carson from GA), my best friend Jenna from Montgomery, and all of the coaches and their wives that we have become good friends with over the last few football seasons.

I had lots of fun and thanks to my sweet husband and all of our friends and family who have been a part of my first 30 years! Can't wait to see what the next 30 has in store!

I Need a Vacation...

2011-03-28T07:24:00.000-07:00

...from my "vacation!" I have some catching up to do, but wanted to go ahead and post about our trip to Disney! Whew...I'm exhausted! We got to Orlando last Saturday, the 19th. Tristan had a double ear infection, and screamed the entire 7 hour drive down!
Sunday, we started off fresh and excited at Animal Kingdom.

Monday, it was on to the Magic Kingdom:

We got to Magic Kingdom around 9:15 am, took a lunch break at the condo, and came got back to from Magic Kingdom around 11:30 pm! Lots of fun rides, parades, and a fireworks show.

Tuesday was "break" day! However, we swam, played putt putt and went to eat at Bahama Breeze (not much of a "break" if you ask me)!

Wednesday we were off to Hollywood Studios (this was my favorite park)! Indiana Jones stunt show, car stunt show, Beauty and the Beast, Honey I Shrunk the Kids play area!

Thursday we headed to Sea World, which was so fun! We watched a dolphin show and then the "Believe" Killer Whale show. They were both amazing. We got up close to sharks, dolphins, otters and seals, and got to touch sting rays.

(Thomas got a bunch of "War Eagles" for wearing his red-neck cut off shirt too)

On our last day, Friday, we relaxed (or as relaxed as you can get with 2 little boys) by the pool (really, in the pool). Then Friday night, Thomas and I went to a Braves spring training game. That was lots of fun, and we enjoyed sitting on the grass hill to watch the game.

Saturday, we drove back, dodging thunderstorms the whole way. Once home, and exhausted, the storms caught up with us. We spent an hour and a half in the bathroom between 2:30 AM and 4:00 AM due to tornadoes!

What a great trip! Thanks to my Dad for letting us use his timeshare, and to my Mom for being Tristan's Nanny all week! It'll be a while...like at least 6 years before we muster up the energy to do that again!

Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder

2011-03-08T06:39:00.000-08:00

For the very few people that actually read this blog, I am sorry about my absence lately. I have no other excuse, other than pure exhaustion...which correlates into blog laziness.

A few weeks ago, TJ came down with a stomach bug. It started on a Tuesday night, and lasted through Friday...LONG bug! Then, the following Tuesday, Tristan started the bug. I stayed home from work Wednesday and Thursday, tried to go in Friday, but only made it 1/2 the day before the daycare called for me to come back to pick him up. Thankfully, Thomas and I never caught it!

Then, after the stomach bug, Tristan grew horns, sprouted fangs, and turned into a monster. Usually, we put him in his bed awake, around 8pm, and he puts himself to sleep...well, not the last week! He screamed this blood curdling scream during bed time, then has been waking up around 12:30 to scream for another hour or so, then again at 4:30-ish. I told Thomas, "he has to be sick...no human-born child acts like this!" I honestly think it has been his teeth coming in...he broke all 4 top teeth at the same time!

I think we finally may be on the up-swing...back to normalcy. So, hopefully I'll be back tomorrow with Tristan's 11 month update and pictures (since he turns ONE on the 31st!!!)

Wordless Wednesday

2011-02-16T06:16:00.001-08:00

10th Monthiversary

2011-02-14T08:17:00.000-08:00

Tristan is 10 months...well, he's been 10 months for a few weeks (what can I say, I'm behind...again)!!! In the past month, Tristan has had his first ear infection, which took 2 rounds of antibiotics to heal...and about 3 weeks! He now has 3 teeth, and a fourth will be emerging any day. When I took him to the Dr. for his ear re-check last week, he weighed in at 21 lbs, 1 oz...hence the reason we have dubbed him "Big Baby!" He is now walking, but is still trying to really get the hang of it...notice the bruises, red spots, and bumps on his head ;) The first few months, we thought he was going to be a laid back, go with the flow kinda guy, but he's proven that he likes to be the center of attention just as much as his big brother. I'm not really sure how Thomas and I managed to have two extremely outgoing children?!

Here is a picture of Tristan in his high chair...his "favorite spot" in the house! Big Baby loves to eat...every and anything! You can't see in the picture, but his high chair has wheels. In order to get his hungriness across to me (as if the screaming and ranting isn't enough), he has now learned how to thrash his body back and forth to make the chair roll into my chair. Bumping me over, and over, and over, until I finally give him what he wants!

It has become increasingly difficult to get a good picture of Tristan...he's everywhere, but I continue to try...here are my best efforts:

And, both boys:

Bunny Ears
The Baby Wrangler
Awww...don't they "look" sweet!

Thankful Thursday

2011-02-03T06:14:00.001-08:00

Seeing a horrific car accident this morning on the Interstate on my way into work, and then a second accident before I got to my exit; and after keeping up with an old friend who's father is battling with a very rare form of Non-Hodgkin's Lymphoma, makes me stop to think how very blessed I am, and how many things I have to be thankful for.

First and foremost, I am thankful for a loving and gracious God, that forgives me when I forget to thank him for my many blessings each, and every day.

I am thankful that when I am up all night with a screaming, sick baby...that it's only an ear infection that will get better in a few days.

I am thankful that for many months out of the year, my husband comes home late...because he has a wonderful job, and more importantly, he loves it.

I am thankful that TJ asks 1000 questions each day...because he is so smart and interested in learning.

I am thankful that my floor has cracker crumbs all over it, and I vacuum every other day...because Tristan is a healthy baby and LOVES to eat.

I am thankful that TJ has holes in every.pair.of.pants that he owns (other than the ones I just bought a few weeks ago. Give them time.)...because that means he is still my little boy who loves to play.

I am going to make it my 2nd New Year's Resolution (yea, a month late), to rejoice in the little, mundane things in life that seem difficult, or time consuming, or cost money at the time, because life is precious and too short to not enjoy and be grateful for ALL of it.

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-26T06:51:00.000-08:00

The Season Continues

2011-01-25T08:36:00.000-08:00

Auburn's National Championship Celebration

Nana and the boys...smiling and freezing!

Touch Down Auburn! A little late for this season, but we will get some good use out of him next season!

What a turn out...over 75,000 people showed up to celebrate with the Tigers!

ALL IN...ALL 75,000 of us! War Eagle Auburn Nation...see you next season!

Wordless Wednesday

2011-01-19T14:25:00.000-08:00

TJ's 6th Birthday

2011-01-18T09:17:00.000-08:00

So, TJ turned 6 on January 10th...which also happened to be a Snow-Day...in Alabama...and it also happened to be the day of the National Championship game in which AUBURN beat Oregon! Big Day! What better present than to find out you are going to Disney World for the first time?! Well, TJ's response after we asked what he thought..."Well, that's good...but, it's not a TOY!" I guess I am more excited than he is, so Happy Birthday to me!

Thank goodness we planned his birthday party for the weekend after, since he busted his head open last Friday! We got his staples out Friday, and partied hard Saturday at the new All Play Fun Zone! Yay for a new place to play in Lanett!!! We had a great turn out of TJ's friends...mainly WILD little boys! They jumped, slid, and wrestled and we only had one bloody nose, one hurt eye, and one hurt cheek bone!

Then, we let them cool down with ice cream sundae's and sang Happy Birthday...

Next, presents...and way too many...especially right after Christmas!

Tristan played too...

I know every mom asks themselves, "Where has the time gone?" But SIX?! I cannot believe TJ is 6 years old! He has been the source of so much fun and love in our lives, and is a blessing each and every day. We are so thankful to have such a sweet, smart, amazing little boy.

Happy 6th Birthday TJ!!!!

A Quick Friday Funny

2011-01-14T08:32:00.001-08:00

Last night we all stayed up extra late (like 10pm) to watch the undefeated Springwood varsity basketball game. TJ never actually watches the games. Any of them...not even his Daddy's games. He just plays with all of the other wild children, that can't sit still, out in the gym lobby. So last night, he was playing, and I assume chasing some older girls around. The girls eventually wore out and ran into the WOMEN's restroom. After several minutes, TJ strolls up to the consession counter and tells the consession mom's that "those girls have been in the bathroom for a long time," and that "he knows they aren't really going to the bathroom, they're just hiding!" So, one of the mom's tells him not to worry, that they will come out in a minute. A second later, she sees a flash run by, and turns to the other mothers..."Was that TJ...and did he just run into the WOMEN's bathroom?" She goes to check, and sure enough she walks out with TJ by the wrist. All of the mom's were still giggling, but trying to tell him that he can't go into the WOMEN's restroom...he's a BOY! He just threw his hands up innocently and said, "Why not?! My Mom takes me in there with her all of the time!"

9th Monthiversary

2011-01-12T09:11:00.000-08:00

Tristan turned 9 months on New Year's Eve. He has started to be so much fun and TJ has started to enjoy playing with him. They are so cute "chasing" each other around the house on all fours. Tristan went to the Dr. for his 9 month check up...he weighed in at 20 lbs. 6 oz. and was 27" long. He has become a little piggy...LOVES to eat! I'm afraid he is a 16 year old boy, trapped in a 9 month old's body!!! He steals food from the other (bigger) kids in his daycare class! I still haven't found anything he won't eat...which is definitely a blessing, I know. He has gotten his first 2 bottom teeth, made his first long trip...to Kentucky to see family for Christmas, but hasn't taken his first steps just yet. He crawls at super-sonic speed, and I'm amazed at how fast he can reach the bathroom, pull up on the toilet, and stick his hands inside! Gross. We are currently working on learning to keep ALL doors closed!

I did manage to get a few pictures of both boys together this month. As usual, it takes several attempts to get an okay picture...but those are the funny ones and worth sharing too! Yes, those are bruises on Tristan's head...I think someone should invent baby helmets for infants learning to stand and walk!

I humbly and graciously accept this award...

2011-01-11T10:50:00.000-08:00

What a week...well, now we are going on a week and a half!!! Last Monday we started off by taking TJ to the dentist to get a crown, yes you heard right, a crown on a 6 year old, put on one of his molars. The child grinds his teeth so badly that he cracked his tooth down to the nerve. And, to add to my "Mom of the Year" award, that I'll be receiving later this week after everything returns to normal, he had told me for a week or so that it was hurting. I knew he had a dentist appointment, so I just told him that I would have them check it out then. Bad Mommy. So after the shots in his mouth, gas to keep him calm, and cement to keep the crown on, TJ sits up and throws up. So nauseous little boy and 30 minute drive home = super fun!

Fast forward to Thursday. Tristan has been waking up the past few nights around 1:00am, then again about 4:30. We think he is just out of his routine since we have just traveled to Kentucky. I did notice that he had been pulling on his ears a little, but he does that when he is tired anyways, and because I'm busy writing my acceptance speech for "Mom of the Year," I figured I'd mention it to the Dr. at his appointment on Thursday. True to form, baby pulling on ears = ear infection. So, shots, a finger prick, and ear infection for baby Tristan. Did I mention it's also super fun to give a 9 month old antibiotics!

Here comes Friday, 4:00pm...the weekend is in full view...phone call from Thomas..."After school program just called and said TJ has busted his head open and they think he might need stitches..." Of course, as our life goes, he also had a basketball game that started in 30 minutes and his assistant coach wouldn't be there to take over! So, he checks on TJ, who can't remember where he is or his teacher's names so they head to the hospital. I leave work and meet them there. Once I get there, TJ seems to be doing fine, and his head isn't bleeding. So, I assure Thomas I won't be mad if he leaves for his game. A few minutes later we are called back. They check him out, get his cut cleaned...and it starts bleeding again. Oh no. So, they get a shot to numb the area (which in case you aren't familiar with this process...they actually stick the needle directly into the cut, inject some numbing meds, pull it out, inject it into another area of the cut, etc, etc, etc, until the screaming child has a death grip so tight on your fingers that they go white, and his face is so red from the blood rushing to it you wonder how his cut is still bleeding!). Then, they stapled his wound shut...3 times! I assume this is where my award for "Mom of the Year" was really won. Horrible experience...next time is Daddy's turn!

Now here comes the kicker, TJ wakes up this morning barking, I mean coughing, his head off, sniffing, runny nose, running a 101.3 degree fever! I am thinking of resigning as "Mom of the Year!"

Programs, Programs, Programs

2010-12-15T08:43:00.000-08:00

The Christmas season can be SO hectic...especially with school aged children I'm finding out! Last week, we had the school Christmas program on Tuesday (Maybe I can upload the video if it's not too long...it was absolutely hilarious); practice Wednesday for the Church program; Parent's night out Friday night (awesome to get a little date night and some shopping done); Saturday morning was Breakfast in Bethlehem at our Church; And Sunday...it was Papa's Birthday, Thomas was ordained a Deacon of our Church, and the Children's Christmas program and dinner were Sunday night!

Breakfast in Bethlehem is always fun, even though I've heard it called "Breakfast in Chaos!" We ate a delicious breakfast, followed by our Pastor's reading of the real Christmas Story. That's just the calm before the storm...next the children got to do a few Christmas crafts. Yikes! I must say, we were a little smarter this year and used glue dots instead of trying the 'ole Elmer's again! They also set up the manger scene, where you can dress up as the wise men, or the angel, or Mary and Joseph...we even had a sit-in Baby Jesus this year. Here are a few pictures from the day:

It's Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas

2010-12-10T06:28:00.001-08:00

Last Sunday we got our Christmas tree at a local farmer's market instead of going out to the tree farm (much to TJ's dismay). Tristan didn't make it for the set-up stage, but that's not the fun part anyway!

A short while later, I had two eager boys ready to decorate...or one ready to decorate and the other to tear them all down ;)

While I was supposed to be helping finish up hanging the lights, I snapped another picture or two intead...

Once I got back on task, which made the husband quit tapping his irrated, why aren't you helping me, foot (which I don't blame him for), we decorated rather quickly. Tristan again didn't make the end and fell asleep on Daddy while decorating. But, the rest of us enjoyed the finale.

Last night we tried to make the West Point Christmas Parade (and, not to get into a political chat on the family blog, but it is CHRISTmas that we are celebrating)! However, we ran late and only made it for the last...ummm...maybe 2 minutes of the parade. But, we were there to see Santa on the fire truck closing it all out.

Merry Christmas from our family to yours!

8th Monthiversary

2010-12-06T11:49:00.000-08:00

Tristan is 8 months old!!! He has been such a wonderful baby...BUT he has flipped the switch...it was all just a tease! In the past month he has become a full-on monster, a cute one, but a monster none the less! Well, maybe I'm being too harsh...nah, I'm not! Tristan has started to throw mini-fits...like he's 2 years old! He grunts and jerks his body (or jumps up and down if his feet are on the ground) when he doesn't get what he wants; he fights tooth and nail EVERY time we put him in his car seat; he decided it would be fun to stay up ALL.NIGHT.LONG for about a week and a half...I think just to see if we would survive! I seriously thought God had to decided to give us a break with this one since our first is worth 2 handfulls! Guess again. It has also become increasingly difficult to take Tristan's picture, see proof:

Tristan is crawling everywhere and is into everything. He mainly uses his crawling indepedence to get somewhere he can pull up. He rakes anything he can reach off of tables, shelves, etc. He is saying a few words...mainly Dada...yea, Dada! Little stinker just smiles at me when I babble "Mama...Mama...Mama" over and over, and then says "Dada!" That's fine, he can call his "Dada" in the middle of one of his tantrums at 1:30 in the morning 'cause I sure won't respond to that! In all seriousness, we can take the child anywhere...he loves looking around and being around people, so I guess we can be thankful for that right now ;)

I was able to get a cute picture of both boys, even though Tristan is looking at his "Dada."

Check Out the Newest Clothing Style

2010-11-30T12:10:00.000-08:00

Anyone have a son out there? Ok, yes. Anyone have one of these kinds:

Not a headless son, just check out the pants...I'll give you a closer look:

Now, tell me, HOW, in this world, can you not realize you have your pants on inside out?! Then, when you can't get the zipper zipped after a few minutes, you ask your Daddy to help out since it is "stuck." He, of course thinks it's hilarious and goes along to "help" you out.

Seriously, this sort of thing happens in our house at least 3 out of the 7 days each week. I have to inspect TJ's clothing, which I am sure Daddy thinks is to approve of his clothing choice that day, but really it's to make sure his shirt and/or pants are on right-side-out and facing the correct direction (and on occasion, might be to "approve" of his Daddy's clothing choice).

Before these pictures, I was desperately trying to get a current, cute...at this point, I would take a somewhat decent picture of both boys for our Christmas card. Again, no luck...for real...see for yourselves...

While I know these are not terrible, and could be considered "somewhat decent," and definitely show their feisty little (or BIG) personalities...I'm still not satisfied. If only an 8 month old responded to threats...hmmm...

Too Many Blessings to Count

2010-11-29T09:29:00.001-08:00

We had a wonderful Thanksgiving Holidays this past week! We have had a very blessed year in the Hill house, and are so very thankful for each and every one of them. But, I am most thankful for our families, who provide so much love and support to us. I don't know where we would be without these guys:

...or, these guys:

I'm especially thankful for my sweet, into everything, drive-me-crazy boys (and even the ant bites I got while taking this picture):

Happy Thanksgiving from our Hill-Side!

A Shutterfly Christmas

2010-11-17T12:40:00.000-08:00

I love Shutterfly; I think I might personally keep them in business! Since getting married 6 years ago, I think I have had Shutterfly make my personalized photo Christmas cards each year. However, this will be our first Christmas as a family of four! I can't wait to send out our Shutterfly cards to all of our family and friends who haven't met our newest addition! What I love about Shutterfly, is that they have so many different options and prices. You can pick from the more expensive card stock option or go with the less expensive photo paper cards. I have used both products and have not been disappointed! Check out their 2010 Christmas Card collection and pick out which one you will use this year!

Shutterfly also has other cards that you can use throughout the year. My brother works at a summer camp and loves to receive mail from his family and friends while away. So, I make him several photo cards each summer, with pictures of what his nephews are up to, and Shutterfly sends them directly to him.

Another one of my favorite items are the personalized photo calendars...Grandparents LOVE these, and they are great Christmas Gifts. Last year I decided to get my Dad something else for Christmas, and he called after getting my gift and asked where his calendar was this year...so, needless to say, I won't be making that mistake again this year! (And, yes, I made him a calendar right then, and had it shipped directly to him.)

And, my ABSOLUTE favorite Shutterfly items are the Photo Books! Have begun making family photo books for each year, filled with pictures of everything our family has done during that year. I can't wait to show them to my boys when they are all grown up!

And, if you are a fellow blogger and want to receive 50 free Christmas cards go to this link and learn more.

7th Monthiversary (Actually closer to 7 1/2 )

2010-11-15T11:23:00.000-08:00

Tristan turned 7 months on October 31st, but as you can see, I'm behind. I have no excuse, well actually, I have many! But, this is about Tristan so I won't bore you with my shortcomings. Tristan is still a GREAT baby, however he is now on the move...everywhere! I'm not sure if you would call it crawling, maybe more of any inch worm technique, but he definitely gets where he wants to go...and QUICK! He is sitting easily now, and has started to try to pull up on furniture. No teeth yet, but by all of the drool and whinning, I would say it won't be long! He loves his big brother, and TJ is still pretty indifferent about him. He loves his baby food, as I have yet to find something that he doesn't like. He went to the Dr. last week (you will notice the raw nose in the pictures) and weighed over 18 pounds!

Because I didn't want to take his 7th and 8th month pictures on the same day, I went ahead and took some when TJ wasn't home, so I will try to take those this week and share the, always fabulous, pictures of the boys together.

I stuck him in the bean bag to give myself an extra few seconds to get my pictures...it takes him a while to figure out how to get out of there!

We also took Tristan to his first football game this past Saturday for the Auburn vs. Georgia game.

Enjoying his beverage of choice while tailgating!

Ready to cheer on the Tigers!

2 minutes later, he passed out. Missed the eagle. Missed the jet fly over. Missed the band. But he was ready when the Tigers made a comeback!

We made it through the WHOLE game! As mentioned, and I'm not bragging (not too much anyway because I believe in Karma), but Tristan is a FANTASTIC baby!

What is this scratch in my throat...

2010-11-12T06:17:00.000-08:00

...oh yea, it's from yelling so loudly I couldn't hear anything else around me! All I have to say is TOUCH DOOOOWWWWN SPRINGWOOD...with 56 seconds left in the 4th quarter to take the lead 20-14! I was a cheerleader in my past life, for many years, and I don't think I have ever left a game so exhausted. My body was tense from beginning to end, and when the last second ran off of the clock, tears stung my eyes! People have no idea, absolutely.no.idea. unless you are a coach or are married to one, how hard football coaches work. It was almost indescribable to watch Thomas achieve something that he has worked so hard for. Being a coach's wife is really hard some days, but I wouldn't trade seeing Thomas' face like that for a million dollars! The Wildcats are headed to STATE!!!!!!!!!!!!!

TJ: "Daddy...did you know you are going to STATE?!"

Congrats to all of the Springwood Family!

"All we do is Win, Win, Win!"

2010-11-11T06:39:00.000-08:00

So, the last few weeks have been crazy-busy on this side of the hill! Between all of the Halloween festivites, a sick baby, and football games, it seems like such a blur. Tonight TJ and I are headed to Birmingham to cheer on Daddy's team...they are in the semi-finals...if they win tonight, we will be headed to Troy next Friday night for the State Championship Game!!! I am not going to get into the the story, but Thomas has been designated the "interim head coach" for the playoffs since the head coach has been suspended for all playoff games. While this has been very difficult for the Springwood Family to swallow, I am so glad that my husband has gotten this opportunity. He is the most hard working, dedicated man I know. I couldn't be more proud of him. This situation has been really stressful for him, but he has handled the adversity with determination and confidence. I was so thankful that they won last week (he would probably still be sulking if they had come up short)! I know he will do another great job tonight and I hope to see that excited smile headed for STATE! Best of Luck Honey...we believe in you!

Hey! Guess What?

2010-11-03T05:57:00.000-07:00

We went trick-or-treating on actual Halloween this year! TJ has been dying to be a Jedi for months and couldn't wait to get his costume on (I actually think this costume is a Storm Trooper, but that's the one he wanted and thought was a Jedi)!

Tristan was a brown cow...and it was a precious costume!

Had to get a family shot.

After the obiligatory pictures, we set out in search of candy to last us all winter. I must say that TJ is the perfect trick-or-treating age...we had a BLAST! If you have ever met my child...you know, he doesn't meet a stranger. He will talk to anyone who will listen, even if you don't care to hear him! I believe his political career has already begun, as I was reminded at a few houses! We went around my Mom's neighborhood and many of the same people still live there that lived there when I was TJ's age. One lady in particular, who is now in her 80's, just "had to come see that baby!" She made her way down the sidewalk from her front door, and squatted down(much easier than I would've thought) to see Tristan. She began telling us that she was blind in one eye and couldn't see very good out of the other and went on and on about her Mother's sight when she was a child. Finally TJ looked over at her and said, "Well, Tristan can see out of both eyes...and so can I!" Our outting took nearly the full 2 hours allotted by the City for Trick-or-Treating because after receiving candy at each house, he would say "Hey, Guess what..." and stay a while chatting up each neighbor about their pumpkins, or the apple he had gotten at the first house, or his costume. He gave one older man a hug; he ran from one house before getting his candy because the guy scared him so bad, which he scolded when he calmed down; he even held his hand to keep the door open several times so he could finish his conversation! We had so much fun watching and listening to him at each house! I have never seen another child with his abilities to make so many people smile!

By the end of the night, both boys were exhausted...and so were we!

I see why babies LOVE their passies!

2010-11-02T07:07:00.001-07:00

I get REALLY excited and into Auburn Games, well even my husband's high school games! (If you've ever met my mother you know this MUST be a genetic thing) Maybe I should take up football coaching on the side...hmmm... But, during Saturday's game vs. Ole Miss, I kept scaring poor Tristan to tears! So, I plugged my mouth so we ALL could enjoy the game! We keep multiple passies spread throughout the house & car, so that they are never too far from reach...maybe I should keep a few in my pockets to soothe myself?!

Friday's Menu

2010-11-01T13:22:00.000-07:00

I had a wonderful experience at the newest restaurant in town, and had to share! TJ's Bistro was impressive and I'll definitely be visiting there again soon! The owner was also the waiter and chef...a real one man show!

I enjoyed Lime to drink (I really said wine), a burger, and fries. Nana's devilish horns came out and she ordered a Coke to drink, with spaghetti and bread as her entre.

Halloween Festivities

2010-11-01T11:51:00.000-07:00

I was excited to be able to be a "Party-Mom" for the TJ's Halloween Party. Last year, I was an Easter Party-Mom, but Tristan was born the day before the party, so needless to say, I wasn't able to attend! My duty was to bring some Halloween books to read to the class...BEFORE they got high on sugar! TJ's teachers told me how excited he was that I was coming to the party and had been telling the other students all about the books I was bringing. He was so cute during the story time...as soon as I would read the title of the story, he would tell them how it ended! Another mom brought tons of yummy, Halloween snacks. And then we did a craft...hanging spiders!
Participating During Story Time

Halloween SUGAR!

Crafty Kid

Finished at the Bell...time to go!

After the party, TJ and I rented a movie, curled up on the couch (with more junk food), and spent a little one-on-one time before heading to pick up Tristan. Fun Day!

I'm a little Batty...

2010-10-22T06:28:00.000-07:00

most days, but even more this time a year for Halloween! After TJ's meltdown Wednesday night because we didn't have time after church to carve his pumpkin, we promised that Thrusday night would be THE night. Being the "stuff as much as we can into one day" sort of people, we first had to pick up the frozen cookie dough that we sold to raise money for the school...that had to stay frozen...that my bestest husband put into the refrigerator at home (not too much sarcasm here...he really is the bestest); we headed to an early soccer game, which I had to take off from work a little early to make it on time; then we headed home to, if I do say so myself, a wonderfully delicious crock pot of Potato Soup...of course, the whole way home, TJ is complaining that he "might not like the soup...what will happen if he doesn't like the potato soup...what will he eat..." and so on and so on. After Thomas and I enjoyed our bowl(s) of soup (TJ decided he wouldn't eat dinner last night) and fed Tristan, it was Pumpking Carving Time. TJ did not want to stick his hand inside the pumpkin because of the "goop," so Mommy did all of the dirty work (does it make me wierd that I kind of like that part?). We have one of those books with patterns, and TJ picked out a "ghostly bat" pattern for his Daddy to carve. I must say, Thomas has amazing carving abilities! What a fun night...can't wait to see how cute they are all dressed up...well as cute as a Jedi can be...
"Mommy's Little Monster" enthralled by the pumpkin action.

He just HAD to use that knife to cut the top!

"Helping Daddy"

Working Hard sawing the throw-away pieces

After 15 shots of trying to get the camera setting right...I introduce Count Batula...he was happy to join his brother from another mother, Thug.

Become like the Tortiose, not the Hare...

2010-10-14T06:06:00.000-07:00

TJ has a notebook that comes home daily from school with all of his work throughout that particular day. There is a "keeper" folder, a "bounce-back" folder, and a "homework" folder inside. As the school-involved parents we should be, we check this notebook each night for any keepers, bounce-backs, or homework. To be perfectly honest, most of the stuff that is a "keeper" ends up in the trash can. I do look through it, but I would be turned in to that Hoarder show if I kept everything...man, at all of the paper! But, Monday night as I was scanning the soon to be trash pile, I noticed a -4 on one of TJ's papers. Upon closer inspection, I saw a note...in red...dun, dun, dunnnnn. It said "Slow down and take your time. Make sure you do not leave anything blank." So, I figured this was one of those times. TJ was sitting on the counter "helping" me cook dinner. I showed him the paper and read the note to him. I tried to explain that he doesn't need to rush through his work, and that he needs to take his time and make sure nothing is left blank when he turns his paper in.

His response: "Ok, but I was trying to hurry...I saw some Legos that I wanted to play with!"

This is the culprit...it started his infatuation with Starwars...and Legos! Is is worth mentioning that his DADDY got him this game?

Meet Crazy Lady...

2010-10-08T06:20:00.000-07:00

...and this time I'm not referring to myself! This is crazy lady and her friends, Thug and Auburn.

Last Sunday we headed to Auburn to hang out with Nana for a while and so I could spend a little one-on-one time with TJ. Nana kept Tristan while TJ and I headed out in search of a few pumpkins. We ended up finding his Halloween costume, 2 comforters for his bunk beds, and pumpkins. It was a gorgeous day in Auburn, so we painted pumpkins outside in the sun. I painted an Auburn paw on one pumpkin, while TJ painted the second small pumpkin. We couldn't get the white paint pen to work, so he got gold teeth, which I thought complimented the gold nose ring nicely.
Thug + Auburn = Forever

TJ finished Thug off with a red paw print on the back to support his school.

Since Thug had been given some school spirit and now supports TJ's school, Nana let us take him home to our house. He is now protecting our front door...with his looks. Happy Fall!

Football Season or Fútbol Season?

2010-10-06T07:01:00.000-07:00

Tristan's onesie is courtesy of Dezigns by Karla...check her out HERE.

Football season is in full swing now, which means Daddy is working his butt off 6 out of 7 days a week. (And not that this is totally on the subject, but the Department of Labor should really require overtime payment for coaches.) And being the huge Auburn fans that we are, we try to make every home game...which takes up most of our Saturdays. But, we decided that this year, being the first football season with two kids to juggle, would be a good year to squeeze in some more fútbol!

TJ wanted to try out soccer this year, and since we must be a little crazy-in-the-head to try to squeeze anything else into the fall, we said "Sure!" And then, Thomas got begged into coaching (which if you know Thomas at all, you know he doesn't like soccer, nor does he know anything about it!) They scheduled the games around Thomas' football schedule, so his only "early night" is now "soccer night!" But, our boys will only be little once, and we want them to have as much fun and as many experiences as they can. So, if it makes things a little more hectic for a few months, I just think...I can rest when they are grown! Last Saturday was the first game of the season. I think the kids, AND the coaches, had a great time! However, it would have been a little sweeter to put a check in the WIN column, but a tie will work for the first game ;)

Pre-game Streching...Very important!

Practicing the Winning Goal

Look at Daddy in the background...enjoying SOCCER!

Maybe he's lost...not really sure where the other kids or the BALL are?

"Excuse me, may I throw the ball?" he asked the 15 year old referee...

6th Monthiversary

2010-10-05T07:12:00.000-07:00

Tristan turned 6 months this past weekend. He weighs 16lbs 6oz, and is 26" long. He isn't crawling yet, but can scoot backwards and turn his body 360 degrees using his arms. He is sitting, but still pretty unstable.

We started rice cereal on Saturday, and man that was fun! Thomas could hardly stand to watch and would cringe and hold his breath with every bite, while Tristan turned his head to get away from the spoon and gag. Thomas shot the camera over and over, and was able to get some cute pictures.

I tried once again to take a picture of both boys, my attempt was yet again unsuccessful. TJ tried really hard to get me the perfect shot, but Tristan has turned into a wiggle worm and only wanted to "kiss" and touch TJ's face. It was sweet, but NOT photogenic!

"It's Wedding Day!"

2010-10-04T06:28:00.000-07:00

The weekend of September 25th was the long awaited wedding of my best friend Jenna and her, now husband, Joe. Thomas and TJ drove me to Montgomery Thursday after work mainly because TJ had to have his last tux fitting...the only problem was that he realized he was going to be barefoot at the wedding. Really??? What kid doesn't like to go barefoot? Answer: TJ!

Thursday night we had planned a "Girl's Night Out" in place of a Bachelorette Party. We ate Mexican, had a Margarhita or two, and suprised Jenna with an old friend who flew in from Italy to be at the wedding!

We also surprised her with lingerie gifts...to which she replied "Thank you, but I will NEVER be able to eat here again!" The funniest gift was a pair of black panties from Viv, who traveled from England, that said "Floosie" on them!

Promised I wouldn't post any lingerie pics!

Jenna, Me, and Tanya (Jenna's sister...yea, full-blooded, real sister!)

Friday we were pampered at a Spa with Mani's and Pedi's and ate cupcakes and drank champagne...that's my kind of morning!

Then we ran around, doing errands, until time for the rehearsal.

After the rehearsal we headed to eat a yummy Italian dinner. TJ and Jenna's cousins from California had a blast! I'm telling you...this kid NEVER meets a stranger!

Saturday morning, TJ was the last to wake up. He walked into the main room of the hotel and sleepily declared, "it's wedding day!" It was really cute! He was super excited to wear his "Ring Security" t-shirt until it was tux-time!

However, the part that took my breath away was this part (and no, my dress wasn't too tight)!

The show started and it was TJ's turn (the flower girl bailed)...
I asked him after the wedding why he was upset walking down and he said, "Everyone was laughing at me because I didn't have on any shoes!"

The wedding was beautiful, but the Bride was gorgeous!

We had a blast dancing, the food was delicious and I was so proud to have my family there with me. Be looking for this on your Christmas card this year!

The Little Baby That Cried Wolf?

2010-09-28T07:07:00.001-07:00

We've all heard the story of "The little boy that cried wolf," but does this face look like he could do such a thing? So sweet. So innocent. Well, I was beginning to think so!

Since I am so far behind in my blogging, this was a few weeks back.
The daycare called me Wednesday afternoon to say that Tristan was throwing up. So, I left work, rushed over there, while calling the pediatrician to ask if I should give him Pedalyte (it's been a while since we had a little baby), quickly swung his room door open to see him smiling sweetly in the swing. So, I felt him...no fever. After signing him out, I ran across the street to Kroger to buy the Pedalyte (which is CRAZY-expensive and has to be thrown out after 24 hours)! All the while, Tristan sat in his seat babbling and smiling. We spent a relaxing, work-free, afternoon at home...with NO poop, vomiting, or fever. Back to daycare the next morning for you, little faker! Fast forward to Friday morning, 4:00 a.m. I am up, stomach hurting and nauseous. Fast forward to 5:00 a.m. TJ up, in the bathroom. Go to check on him. He is ok, but explains the situation and says that it stinks in there so bad that he has flushed the potty six times! Fast forward 5 minutes, TJ makes it to my room and lays in the bed, runs to the potty, throws up! Both of us...sick...ALL Friday long! Saturday, after suffering from cabin fever, we decide we feel well enough to go the the Clemson vs. Auburn game that night. We head to the tailgate, where it feels like it is 100 degrees and 100% humidity. TJ throws up...no football game Saturday for TJ and I. On the way home...around mid-night, Thomas pulls the car over on the interstate...throwing up! Sunday...Nana gets it! Monday...KK gets it! Tuesday...Uncle Lee gets it! No one was safe, only 2 made it out unscathed! I guess I'll think twice next time, before I question Tristan's motives ;)

5th Monthiversary

2010-09-08T06:06:00.000-07:00

Tristan turned 5 months on August 31st, but I promise I haven't been slacking on taking his picture! He has been sick (thanks to Daddy and the beginning of school germs he brought home) since last Wednesday ...which was the first, and I wanted to wait until he was feeling better; so technically I'm only one day late! As you can see by the raw nose...he still isn't feeling 100%, but I was worried he would be 6 months before I got another opportunity! He did have to go see the Doc. on Saturday, so I got his weight...15 lbs. 9 oz. He is turning over both ways now...no more easy diaper changes! He is really trying to crawl, however only one part works at a time. He'll push his arms up, but the legs are still skydiver style, or he'll get his bottom up, and his arms are out to his side. But, I have a feeling it won't be long before the chase begins! He can sit up, using his arms for support for several seconds...unless he moves his head (full of brain) to one side at which time he topples over.

Look at the BABY, not the mess!

Here are the "best" pictures I got of both boys.

The Baby Straight Jacket

2010-09-03T13:45:00.001-07:00

Ever think of putting your baby in a straight jacket? No...well, me either! But, we found something that works just as well...that is if you wanted to do such a thing.
It's called a "life jacket!" We decided it was time to initiate Tristan into our world at the lake and take him on his first boat ride. Since Tristan is still not old enough to safely wear sunscreen, Papa prepared the boat, putting up the canopy, to protect his pasty-white skin. The weather was a little if-y and had been cloudy and threatening to rain all day. So, we let Tristan eat and take a nap before we ventured out. The sun was peaking through, so we decided it was as good a time as any. Once we got the "life jacket" on him, it was like he had been completely immobilized...he didn't move...at all. When TJ was little, we would barely step foot on the boat before he passed out for a slumberous ride, so we were sure Tristan would do the same. Nope, he only closed his eyes when the wind blew them shut! The remainder of the time, he sucked his passie, eyes open...not so sure he was enjoying the ride, but was peaceful enough.
Then it came...we looked behind us...RAIN. We decided to keep riding in hopes that the rain would pass around us before he headed back home...guess again! Into the rain we went. We took refuge under a bridge until it passed and we headed towards home. NOPE, we just thought we took refuge! We still ended up right in the middle of the rain storm! Papa grabbed the boat cover and held it up to cover up the boys, while I drove the boat! Yes, I drove the boat, you heard me right...I have NEVER driven a boat! My contacts had water behind them, I couldn't see, but Papa said "You're ok" so we kept going as he pushed the gas down with his foot. But, being the great driver I am (right Honey?), we made it back safely. And poor Tristan, never made a peep! Hopefully he has forgotten this first ride and will be up for more this weekend!

The boys cuddled together trying to keep warm after the rain

You don't know what you've gotten yourself into...

2010-09-01T07:15:00.000-07:00

As mentioned, my BFF is getting married in about 3 weeks from now. TJ and I are both in the wedding, and I'm not so sure Ms. Jenna knows what she has gotten herself into...well, that is until last Friday! We drove over to Montgomery Friday evening to get TJ fitted for his tux. First of all, Men's Warehouse pretty much stinks...yes, I am naming names, and it is the one in East Chase shopping center just in case you would like the exact location. We walked in...with a 5 year old B.O.Y., mind you, and had to wait like 30 minutes for someone to help us. This began the restless boy, all over the place, stage. We were finally taken back into the dressing area to get TJ measured...and there it was...a 3-way mirror! Dun, Dun, Dunnnnnn!
The remainder of the fitting went something like this: measure an arm, while lifting the guy's tie so that he cannot read the measurement; on the mirrored platform dancing like a crazy person; measure the neck; back to the mirrored platform to stomp the Eye of the Tiger song as loudly as possible; measure the waist and chest (WOW, and accomplishment...2 measurements at once); back to the mirrored platform to shake a little booty; try on a jacket...nope, too big; into the back room with the employees to find a smaller jacket; try on smaller jacket...awww, how cute; back to the mirrored platform to perform another rendition of Eye of the Tiger while everyone now stares at us; try on a shirt, while now kissing the guy's hand as he buttons the shirt; back into the back room with the employees to return the shirt.

Just when you thought the painful part was over...time to pay, and by painful, I don't mean the price! I give the guy my debit card, and out shoots like 203 reciepts. I joked, "How many times did you run my card?!" He didn't think that was very funny I guess, I only got a quick smirky grin. Then.it.starts. He begins reading me the terms and conditions...ALL of them. Wait, TJ is dancing around in circles and this time it is not because he enjoys looking at himself in the mirrors. Pause the reading; head to the bathroom in the back of the store. Finish, back out, and there he is again...ready to read on. FOREVER later, we are finally finished, but not before he mentions that we must drive back to Montgomery the week of the wedding to make sure it all fits...YEA!

"E" for Effort

2010-08-25T08:56:00.000-07:00

(Mr. P. praying with the K4 students before school)

Mr. P. is the 2nd year Headmaster at TJ's school. Everyone absolutely loves Mr. P., especially the students. He has been wonderful to the school and helped us grow in so many ways. One of his main focuses is to have ZERO bullying in his school.

So, Sunday afternoon, our Sunday School class and others with small children in our church (and big-kid adults) got together to swim and eat hot dogs. Our Youth Director and his wife (they are young) came and brought a couple of friends. All of the kids, big and small, were splashing around. TJ was a "good guy," and he and his side-kicks were getting the bad guys with water guns. I was feeding Tristan and conversing by the side of the pool. TJ gets out of the pool and walks over to me with a serious look on his face. He says:

TJ: "Mom, I need to tell you something."

Me: "Ok, what is it?"

TJ: He cups his hand over his mouth and my ear and loudly whispers, "There's a bully in the pool! He keeps grabbing me!"

Me: Stifling a giggle, because he is super serious. "Who honey?"

TJ: Pointing to our Youth Minister's friend, and yelling "That guy!"

I have to give Mr. P. and "E" for effort!

Sugar and Spice and Everything Nice

2010-08-19T08:20:00.000-07:00

My BFF is getting married in about 5 weeks from now, and I am the "matron of honor!" (Matron...I hate that word...sounds like I'm old or something) She and Joe have been together for 5 years and they are perfect for each other. Joe is pretty laid back, and Jenna is...well, not (I love you Jen)! I could not be more excited for them and I do not know of a more deserving person to find life long happiness than Jenna. She is an amazing friend and has been with me through all of my greatest life transitions over the past 11 years. Jenna and I met in the April during cheerleader try-outs, before we started college at Troy . For some reason (most likely jealousy of some sort), Jenna and I really disliked one another! But on the first fall day on campus, Jenna and I realized we were next door neighbors in the dorm. From that moment on, we were inseparable over the next 4 years. We are very different people; Jenna is much more outgoing and outspoken than I am, but I guess that is what made us such good friends. During our days at Troy, we cheered together, were roommates for 3 years, found our first "true loves," got our hearts broken, and had an absolute BLAST! (No, this wasn't really taken in 1994...stupid camera)

Right after I graduated college I married the most wonderful man in my eyes, and of course, Jenna was there with me.
Now it's my turn (and TJ's too ~ he's the ring bearer...) to stand up on the alter with her as she marries her best friend. But first, we must have a little fun!

Saturday a few girls and I hosted a Kitchen & Recipe Tea Shower in Prattville at the Smith-Byrd Bed & Breakfast and Tea Room. If you have never been there, and are in the area, you should definitely check them out (or if you need to host a party)! The tea was ok (I'm a southern-girl...I only know one kind of tea and it comes with ice and LOTS of sugar), but the food was Fabulous! One of the girls bought an awesome cake/cupcakes from Girl Meets Cakes ...it was SUPER cute.
I was very pleased with how the shower turned out and hope Jenna had as much fun as we did!

Mother of the Bride, Mrs. Denise and My Mom
Jenna & her Mom
Christina, Jenna, & I

Up next...Bachelorette Party! Can't wait for the wedding...September 25th, coming soon!

I think we may need to branch out a little...

2010-08-17T06:27:00.000-07:00

My AUsome brother, Lee, has been in Missouri all summer working at Kanakuk (a Christian camp) and just returned this weekend. He starts classes at Auburn on Wednesday, so he and Nana came up to our neck of the woods to eat dinner with us last night. For some reason, all kept asking "What are you making for dinner" or "Can I bring anything?" All innocent enough, but what are they thinking? I wasn't cooking! There are a few things you should know about our area: 1. There aren't many restaurants (other than fast food). 2. Most of the restaurants we do have are either BBQ, Mexican, or Chinese (We have a few new Korean ones thanks to KIA moving in, but they are REAL Korean if you know what I mean). 3. Everyone "knows" you (or knows of you) around here. Anyway, since every time my family comes in town we either eat Mexican or run to the closest Italian place, we decided to take them to the new Johnny Brusco's pizza place. As soon as we got in, I spoke to the host and he said it would be just a minute before they could get the table cleared and cleaned. I turn back around to the family and see my mom and Thomas snickering. Nana points behind me and says "look!" I turn to see TJ has climbed up into a bar stool and seems to be busting in the conversation of the two men sitting next to him. I quickly run over and ask him what he is doing. He just looks at me and continues on his quest. "Excuse me...excuse me," he says to the man sitting there. I grabbed him up and apologized for my son. We aren't even two steps away, when TJ says "Mom, I wanted to ask him how to say "hello" in Spanish." I have completely gone red in the face, and I turn to look at the man, hoping he has gone back to his original conversation. NOPE. He is KOREAN, and I hope doesn't know much English yet (or maybe he is hard of hearing)! Of course the man he is having dinner with knows our family and explains to this sweet Korean man, "You know Joe Hill? Well, that is his Grandson!"
TJ is the sweetest child and has sweet intentions, but is determined to embarrass me until I evenutally can no longer go out in public! We are working on teaching him that not every Nationality speaks SPANISH!

The First Friday of School

2010-08-13T05:48:00.001-07:00

No, TJ's school didn't start the year off on a Friday. Yes, I know you are supposed to take pictures on the first day of school. I tried, and this is what I got:

ALL.I.GOT. between Thomas rushing us with his usual drill sergeant morning routine, and TJ's excitement for the first day of school. Thankfully his teachers take pictures on the first day too, and they got a really good one of TJ, Tristan, and I...but, I don't have it yet and needed to get the first day of school post out of the way.
So, we took First Friday of School pictures this year!

TJ is now officially in Kindergarten...or as my new home people, the Valley-ites, call it K5. Since his K4 class was so large, they decided to split them up this year. His K4 teacher actually moved up to teach K5 this year and so he has Mrs. Dewberry again. We were amazed every day with the new things he learned last year and know that this year will be no different. TJ is the sweetest, most loving little boy. He is so much more outgoing than either Thomas or I, and just loves being with people. He makes friends where ever he goes, and I so admire that trait in him. He is so inquisitive, always wanting to know "why?" Maybe that is why he is the smartest little 5 year old I know! He is ALL boy, full-force until he passes out each night and has taught Thomas and I the meaning of patience. But, we wouldn't have it any other way! TJ we are so proud of you and we look forward to the many more surprises you have in store for us!

Thomas, my hunky-hubby, actually started school on Monday...or July, if you count being there everyday for football! This year he will be teaching 7th Grade Civics and Geography; 8th Grade World History; and 2 classes of Girls Weights. He is also an assistant football coach and the Varsity Head Baseball Coach. He is the most hard working, under-paid man I know. But, he has a passion for his job and loves (almost) every minute of it. He truly enjoys his chosen profession, which I so admire! What an amazing example he is to our boys, and I pray they grow up to be wonderful men such as their Daddy.

Have a GREAT First Friday and I'll be cheering you both on this year!

Love, Mom

I've heard breakfast is the most important meal of the day...

2010-08-11T05:48:00.000-07:00

I know we have all heard the saying "breakfast is the most important meal of the day," right? But, probably not from your 5 year old child, who, in some aspects, may possibly be smarter than you at 29! Yes, I have heard that age old saying, but to be perfectly honest, I rarely cook breakfast for breakfast time - even on weekends! I am no where near the "good parent" standard set by my Father-in-law who cooked his boys breakfast E.V.E.R.Y. morning (thanks for making me look bad Papa)! And, I do remember having warm breakfasts when I was growing too. Anyway, back to my slacker-mom ways...so, TJ typically goes to the pantry and fridge to check out what unhealthy items are available. Usually he goes for the frozen blueberry waffles, unless we are running late, and then he picks something like a poptart or yogurt (hey, yogurt is pretty good for you...yea me). Sunday morning TJ yells his typical, "Mom, I'm hungry..." from the couch while watching cartoons; to which I sweetly reply, "Well, go see what you want." So, off to the kichen we go to check out the afore mentioned crap I offer for breakfast. After looking in the pantry he turns and says:

"Mom, I've heard that cereal is good for you. Is it really good for you?"

Me: "Sure it is honey."

TJ: "Ok then, I'll have the cereal this morning because it is good for me!"

So here you are, for the health concious "breakfast is the most important meal of the day" people and TJ...

4th Monthiversary

2010-08-05T06:27:00.001-07:00

Tristan turned 4 months on July 31st. He also rolled over from front to back for the first time that day! We went for his check up and shots yesterday. He is now 14 lbs. 10 oz. and 24 1/2 inches long...Man, he's grown in the last month!!! Tristan is still a wonderful baby...happy and smiling most of the time. And, he's finally growing his hair back...the fish bowl - old man hair loss was cute and all, but I prefer the fuzzy-look he is sporting these days!

I have always loved taking tons of pictures, and kind of considered it a hobby of mine, but I guess I'm not very good at it! Here are my attempts to get a picture of both boys...I mean really, how do professionals get good pictures of kids anyway?!

Conceited or Just Plain Cute?

2010-08-03T06:17:00.000-07:00

Our family is in full-on football mode now, which means Thomas doesn't get home from practice until 9:30 or 10:00 most nights. I am still working on juggling 2 kids, both wanting attention, while Thomas is not home. After dinner most nights, I feed Tristan a bottle, give him a bath, and hold him for a short while before he passes out for the night. He is usually out by 8:00 or 8:30. After that, I spend time playing a game or watching TV with TJ. Last night, TJ and I curled up in bed and swapped between the Bachelorette and Shark Week...you can guess which one we each were interested in. TJ jabbered the whole time the Bachelorette was on, and would intently watch, occasionally letting an "oooh" or "ahhh" out, while Shark Week was on. During one such Shark Week break, TJ was feeling his shoulders and arms, asking where his bones were as apposed to his muscles. Then he said, "Mom, feel my arm muscles," as he gritted his teeth and squeezed his arm as tight as he could. After I felt them, he looked up at me and said, "Doesn't that just knock your socks off?!" Hmmm...you think he has been spending too much time with the football players???

Feeling a Little Nostalgic

2010-07-30T06:02:00.001-07:00

So, yesterday morning was a sad day in my house...I lost a close companion that has been with me for 11 years, longer than even my husband, so I thought she deserved a little blog time.

This is my CONAIR, and yes it deserves capital letters, hairdryer that I had to lay to rest in the garbage can this morning. She has been with me for the past 11...ELEVEN years! My life has changed dramatically over these past 11 years and CONAIR has been with me every step of the way. She left the safety of Auburn to travel to college at Troy with me...first we lived in Clemens Hall; what a dump, but looking back I remember SO much fun had there! She traveled everywhere with me during my 3 years cheering for Troy; Cincinnati, Miami, Maryland, Nebraska, Texas, Louisiana. I used her services the night I met my husband, and later the day we got married. She was there on our Honeymoon cruise, and she was there in the hospital when I had both of my boys. She was with us when we moved into our first "real" house. She has dried the hair of my friends, my husband, my son, our dog Mya loved her, and of course my hair! So, needless to say I am saddened my the loss.

Yesterday, when CONAIR quit, I went to work with wet hair. So, on my lunch break, I headed to Wal-mart to pick out the replacement, and until she proves to be as sturdy and reliable as CONAIR, she will remain "replacement." Since CONAIR lasted SO long, I knew which brand I would buy, but there were so many choices...but, here's what I went with...meet replacement.

I have to admit, I did try CONAIR one more time before carefully wrapping up her cord and placing her gently into the garbage, but she couldn't do it, it was over. So, after 10 minutes of trying to get replacement out of the box, I gave her a try...now, this is what I should've gotten a picture of...the hurricane force winds that replacement blows out! I think I have windburn! But, I do have to say...Man, my hair looks good today!

FBI WARNING

2010-07-20T06:53:00.000-07:00

image thanks to: www.unctv.org/pressroom/children/index.html

Ever heard of Word World? It comes on PBS Kids...every day...Still no? Well, me neither; that is until TJ introduced us to it a little while back. He LOVES this show, and I have to admit, it is pretty cute...and educational! Any way, TJ wanted to rent a Word World DVD to watch the other night. He watched it twice that night and twice yesterday...so, needless to say, he has it memorized forwards and backwards by this point! This morning he begged me with his sweet baby blues looking extra puppy dog-ish to watch it with him...so, of course I couldn't turn him down! So, I raced to shower, put on my makeup, dried my hair, and threw on some clothes so I could have 15 spare minutes to watch one episode with him. We turned on the DVD at 7:46...not bad...I'd only be about 5 minutes late for work...thank goodness this DVD doesn't have previews (cause he loves to watch them and won't let you click to the menu)! But it does have the FBI WARNING message as all DVD's do:

When this warning is shown before a movie, do you even think about it? I know I don't. But of course my child, who notices EVERYTHING, noticed the warning.

TJ: "Mom, what does that say?"

Me: "Well, it just says that you could go to jail or have to pay a bunch of money if you copy this movie."

TJ: (Now, looking REALLY distressed) "Mom, I don't copy it...I just watch!"

Me: (Not really paying full attention as I am trying to get the movie started...it's already 7:48!)

TJ: (In a whisper) "Mom, well.........I DO COPY it sometimes!!!" (As he starts singing the opening song)

Guess he's not too worried about the copyright law!!!

Law School in the Future?

2010-07-15T06:34:00.000-07:00

Legally Blonde was on T.V. last night, so with nothing else on "because cartoons don't come on at night" I tell TJ, we started watching. I felt for sure when Thomas arrived home, he would sigh so often that I would eventually change the channel to something sports oriented, so why not enjoy a little chick-flick action while I could! But, when Thomas arrived home he let me continue to watch in peace...I must have looked horribly exhausted or something...

During the movie, when Elle gets accepted to Harvard and begins her first day of law school, I lean over and tell TJ..."Uncle Mike is going to law school right now too...just like her." Thomas explained that Uncle Mike was going to be a lawyer. Of course, being the ever inquisitive child that he is, he asks "What's a lawyer?"

Thomas: "Well, it's a job where you argue and get paid for it..."

TJ is quiet for a few seconds (a feat in itself) then responds: "I guess I'm already a lawyer then 'cause I argue!"

We tried to explain that all he gets for arguing is 5 minutes in timeout.

Thomas has always told TJ "You're JUST like your Uncle Mike!" I don't think he realizes that those things he does...could be like HIM too ;)

Christmas 2005

Summer 2006

Summer 2008

Christmas 2009

Four Generations

2010-07-14T07:38:00.000-07:00

Thomas and I are so grateful to have 2 of our grandmothers still living. So TJ and Tristan have 2 GREAT-grandmothers! The woman now famous for her "Granny-isms" is Thomas' grandmother. She is 88 years old...will be 89 this September! We took some time this past Sunday to get a new 4 generation picture now that Tristan his her newest great-grandchild.

Thomas and I were so upset that we had the opportunity to get both sides of our 4 generations in one picture when my grandmother was in town! Hopefully we will remember next time!

We also had TJ & Tristan's pictures taken by a professional...since you have seen my lovely attempts to get them together didn't turn out so well! Check out the photo preview HERE...they are PRECIOUS!

I found the perfect babysitter...

2010-07-08T06:13:00.001-07:00

And no, it's not TJ. He tends to ignore Tristan the majority of the time, not to mention he's only 5. I have been on the search for the perfect babysitter, I know they exist, I have heard about them in discussions with other mothers. We are extremely fortuntate to have both Thomas' parents and my Mom within a 25 mile radius, but I finally found one that lives much closer! There are times when I just need a few minutes to get some underwear washed for the next day, or go to the restroom A.L.O.N.E., or change my clothes into those oh-so-comfy sweat pants that are oh-so-flattering! And here she is, in ALL of her glory, my perfect sitter:

No, my TV doesn't actually look like this one, it's a much older, boxier version... but works none the less! I took this picture of the boys this morning, both watching cartoons, both blissfully happy in doing so! I can't believe a 3 month old baby is so entertained by watching TV. And, for those of you who think TV is evil...well, I guess you could come over and watch the boys, so I can have a few spare minutes?! We do try to limit the TV time that TJ has, at least making him get the recommended 60 minutes of exercise a day, since most 5 year olds need that recommendation! But seriously, how cool is it that I can have a few minutes to brush my teeth, without a squirming baby in my arms; or fold some laundry so guests can enter through the garage door without stepping over the piles; or maybe I can even eat a WARM dinner!

3rd Monthiversary

2010-07-01T07:46:00.000-07:00

Tristan is 3 months old! It feels as if he has been a part of our family forever, but at the same time, I can't believe he is 3 months old! Tristan continues to be a very easy going, laid back baby...which is WONDERFUL! He is sleeping through the night...every night! He doesn't really like riding in the car however...our morning commute consists of Tristan crying, and the radio turned up loudly. He loves for you to talk to him, and he gets really tickled and giggles a lot!

STATS: As of today, Tristan is 13 lbs 4 oz and 23 1/2" long.

Here are my attempts this month to get a picture of both boys together! Good thing I am having a professional take them Saturday!

The Hill Family Reunion

2010-06-30T06:41:00.000-07:00

...or so it felt that way!

Thomas' Aunt Betty and cousins Jay & Katharine, and their families, came to visit this past weekend. A few summers ago Jay and his wife, Caitlin, and their daughter, Olivia, came to visit. Olivia is about 2 years older than TJ, and they had a blast then and even more fun this time around! They were inseparable...it was too sweet for words! Even though Olivia put it into words..."I think TJ has a crush on me!" she told them after we ate dinner on Thursday night as TJ invaded her personal space all night long! Thank goodness Olivia is a sweet girl! And, believe it or not, I think TJ has met his match in the ENERGY category!!! I never, ever, in a million years, thought that I would meet another child with as much energy as TJ...but Olivia is his match! They jumped, swam, ate, jumped, swam, ate, rode the boat, did the zip sled, jumped, swam, ate...ALL 3 DAYS! I'm not sure if you can become physically ill, fever and all, after becoming that exhausted, but TJ has had a fever since Monday! Katharine and her husband, Eric, came this time as well! They have a precious 20 month old daughter, Reese. Reese is very shy, but by Sunday...she was MY buddy! I had never met Katharine, Eric, & Reese, and it was great to finally spend some time with them...they are a sweet family and maybe one day will add another precious little one to our growing Hill Family ;) Can't wait for the next visit...maybe we can make a trip out to Denver or Portland!

Aunt Betty, Reese, Katharine, & Tristan

Olivia & TJ...Move over Ali, this is TJ's new girl (at least she is a little closer to his age)

KK, Thomas, & Tristan (her 4th & 5th little boys)

TJ & Olivia before their VERY short ride! (TJ is horrible with names...he kept saying "I love...what's her name?" all weekend!)

Aunt Betty reading to TJ

Katharine & Reese before Reese's first boat ride!

I just LOVE this picture...don't they look like they are up to something?!

"Do you pinky promise?"

Uncle Mike & Tristan

Uncle Buck & Tristan...he looks excited huh?!

Granny & Tristan...I've always heard Granny liked a little male attention ;)

Dedication

2010-06-25T09:37:00.000-07:00

Sunday was not only Father's Day, but was also a special day in our family's life...TJ and Tristan were dedicated at church! This is a picture of our AWESOME pastor, Dr. Tom Tucker, and the boys after the service. We were definitely more anxious about how TJ would act in front of the whole congregation, than Tristan! TJ has been very outspoken lately...So, we practiced the "Annointing with Oil" portion of the service before hand! TJ even got to "annoint" Dr. Tom! But, believe it or not, TJ was great during the service, and Tristan was too! I think Dr. Tom let out a HUGE sigh of relief after it was over! After the dedication, TJ, not so gracefully, jumped all three stairs to exit the pulpit!

Even though my husband refuses to read this blog...

2010-06-21T07:50:00.000-07:00

Even though Thomas refuses to read my blog, maybe for fear of what I might be saying about him, he is the best Daddy and husband a girl could ask for! I am so thankful and blessed to have Thomas as my partner in crime for a lifetime. He is an amazing Daddy to our boys, which probably has to do a lot with another wonderful man in our lives...his Daddy (aka Papa). As mentioned below, there are days that I feel there just isn't enough time to get everthing that needs to be done...well, done, much less things that I want to do, that I'll come home and he has put away the piles of laundry, or done the dishes, or made bottles for the following day, or picked weeds out of the flower bed, or cleaned our bathrooms (toilets included!), or dusted the living room! Yes ladies, I am a lucky woman...and I try dearly to realize that every day, not just on Father's Day! Thanks Honey for all that you do, large or small, it is truly appreciated! We love you more than you know!

Could I feel any worse?

2010-06-17T07:38:00.000-07:00

We are beyond blessed to have two precious little boys! I now, however, could not feel any worse!!! I am back at work full time now; Tristan has started daycare; Thomas and TJ are out of school for the summer; I am still breastfeeding at night and in the mornings; I am trying to work out to get my body looking somewhat descent enough for my best friend's wedding in September (for which I am the maid of honor); so why could I be feeling like there isn't enough time in the day?! I am not complaining because I know how wonderful my life is...I have a job; I am married to a wonderful man and great father; I have 2 gorgeous boys; we are healthy and happy! I have been so amazed since bringing Tristan home from the hospital...amazed at how well TJ handled the whole transition to having a brother and sharing his time! I thought he was managing great, until this week...

Thomas told me the other night that TJ had mentioned that "Mommy didn't pay him any attention or play with him anymore." Thomas tried to explain, but really, what can yo say to that? So last night it got worse...I was feeding Tristan and the following conversation took place:

TJ: "Mommy, I love you!"

Me: "I love you too!"

TJ: "You love Tristan more!"

Me: (Sick at my stomach now, and feeling guilty for telling my Mom she loved my brother more--even if it was a joke!) "TJ, Mommy loves you and Tristan...and I love you both the same."

Later, while putting him to bed, I tried to tell him again how much I loved him. He said, "well, you don't pay me any attention anymore. And, when I need you, you are not there!" He probably just meant when he calls me from the toilet to check his butt, that I yell back that I can't come, but still... STAB.IN.THE.HEART!

So, obviously, not handling it as well as I thought! Can't God help me out here and make just a few more hours in the day?

"We are the Champions..."

2010-06-09T06:13:00.000-07:00

TJ had his last T-ball/Coach Pitch game last night and man it was a thriller! They played the "purple team" who were mostly made of girls, and who's coach was a terrible pitcher and struck most of them out. Our team did great at hitting, and TJ smacked the ball into the outfield on his first at bat. At the end of the game, Coach Mark had trophies and a ball for all of the kids. At this age, they don't keep score, but TJ kept saying "We are the Champions!" He was so excited about his first trophy, and even thanked me later for taking the "pretty picture" of him and his trophy. He was however a little more excited about something else Coach Mark had given them all..."the popping game" also known as the bubble wrap the tropies were protected in!

Whoever said "lazy summertime" didn't have 2 boys...

2010-06-07T06:45:00.000-07:00

Thomas had a AISA coaches conference last week in Panama Ciy Beach, FL. The other 2 coaches families were going, so I knew how bad Thomas wanted us to go. I reluctantly said I'd be glad to chase after a 5 year old at the beach, somehow while still managing to keep a 2 month old, who can't wear sunscreen, in the shade. I love my husband, but when it comes to knowing the details about anything...he just doesn't know, doesn't ask, I don't know what! So, we spent Memorial Saturday and Sunday at the lake and on the way home Sunday evening, Thomas decides to find out the "plans" for the trip. He calls Coach Hamilton and finds out that everyone else is leaving Monday morning...yes, TOMORROW morning! So, I have nothing packed (for me and 3 boys), no laundry done...stress starts to set in...just a little! But, we managed to "get out of dodge" only about 30 minutes later than we planned...not bad, if you ask me! Tristan was the BEST baby...slept the entire 4 hours in the car (both ways), but started screaming with hunger as soon as we arrived...can't complain there! TJ was an angel the majority of the time...playing by himself or with the other kids (who are much older). I am worn out, but all in all, I couldn't have asked for a better first trip with the family...well, except that Thomas be able to have a little fun with us and not have to work!

Tristan at the beach...what a trooper!

TJ at the beach...so sweet!

Dinner at Montego Bay...it never fails...Tristan ALWAYS is hungry during our dinner time!

As you can see above, Thomas had his hands full...so we took a picture of ourselves at Montego Bay.

TJ's treat for being so good for me while Daddy worked. He was SO excited to FINALLY be tall enough to "drive" his own car!

WORN OUT!

These boys too!

2 Monthiversary

2010-05-27T06:44:00.000-07:00

I'm getting better at posting in a timely manner...Tristan turned 2 months yesterday. He is such a sweet baby...you can already tell he is much more laid back than TJ, which is probably a good thing for all of our sanities!

Tristan is now 12 lbs 5 oz and 23 inches long. He no longer can wear his 0-3 month clothes...SAD!

I'm going to keep trying each month to get a picture of both boys...these are my 2 month attempts... I guess there's always next month, huh?!

Bumper Cars

2010-05-26T08:20:00.000-07:00

For those of you that think this is a Bumper Car...

think again...

This is a Bumper Car

And that, on his face, is what happens when you play bumper cars! This is several days after putting neosporin on it! Thomas & TJ race each morning on the way to TJ's class. This particular day, they played "bumper cars." In case you aren't up to speed on the game of "bumper cars," it is played by running and bumping into each other to try to knock the other over. Anyway, Thomas swears that he didn't "bump" into TJ to cause this traffic accident, but that he tripped on his own (over a root or something he claimed), and face planted into a tree! His cheek was gashed, chin was scratched, and then a minute later his nose started gushing blood. Just thought I would share the joys of now having 3 boys to take care of (yes, 3...Thomas, TJ, & Tristan)!

One Monthiversary

2010-05-18T09:53:00.001-07:00

I guess now that Tristan will be 7 weeks old tomorrow, I can post about his one month birthday or monthiversary. My sister got me these cute onesies called "Monthiversary Onesies" for a baby gift...and they are so cool. There are 12 of them with different pictures on the front. You are supposed to put them in the onesie on their monthiversary and take a picture with the same background each month to show how much they have changed and grown since the previous month. And so I did. I tried to get one with TJ and Tristan, but taking a picture of 2 boys is much more difficult than one! Here are the best 2 I got...and I say "best" in the loosest since of the word.

In celebration, TJ and I made brownies and ate them, and Tristan drank his milk!

STATS: The following Monday Tristan had his 1 month Dr.'s appointment. I couldn't believe how much weight he had gained! He was 10 lbs even!!! That's over 2 pounds in 3 weeks! He had grown 1/2" in length to 21 1/2".

Sorry for the blogging inconsistency...I'll try to do better!

I'm gonna have to talk to the teacher...

2010-04-28T08:43:00.000-07:00

...and this time, it's not about something TJ has done! As I posted before, I always ask TJ how his day at school was during dinner. Well, one day last week, I didn't even have to ask! He came up to me with a very serious look on his face and said:

TJ: "Mom, I need to tell you something..."

Me: (Oh No, this must be serious...he always tells on himself when he has done something wrong.) "Ok Honey, what is it?"

TJ: "Well..." (Looking down at the floor...)

Me: (This is really bad, ok...I'm ready)

TJ: "Lillee kissed me at school today."

Me: (Totally relived that this is what he needed to get off of his chest.) "She did? Where did she kiss you?"

TJ" (Looking disgusted) "On my mouth!"

Me: "Really?!"

TJ: "Yeah, and then you know what she said?"

Me: "No, what?"

TJ: "That she was IN LOVE with me!"

Me: (I look at Thomas and ask where she would hear that...)

TJ: "I don't know, but I didn't tell her I loved her!"

Me: (Whew! At least he is a true male and runs from the mention of "I love you!")

Seriously, what kind of TV has this child been watching?! Maybe I should email his teacher and let her know what is going on in her classroom, on her watch!

I know TJ will one day be the stud that his father dreams he will be, but I'm not ready for that yet and probably won't be when the day comes! I didn't think I would have to fight off the girls for at least another 10 years!

TJ and Lillee...I can imagine this is the scared look on my poor little boy's face everyday at school!

Baby Food

2010-04-21T14:29:00.000-07:00

I think I have previously mentioned this, but if not, here it is...TJ is slightly obsessed with a certain female body part...or parts...breasts. Always has been intrigued by them. Because of this, I found it difficult to explain to him how I would be feeding his brother. I did tell him that only Mommy could feed the baby for a while, but didn't mention the method in which this would take place. Another reason being that TJ feels no shame in sharing everything we have ever done or told him to total strangers; and I didn't feel like his teacher calling me up to say that TJ had explained to the class of 4 & 5 year olds that the baby would suck on his Mommy's boobies!

So, at the hospital TJ comes in while I am feeding the baby. He climbs on the bed to give me a kiss and notices what is going on and immediately says,

TJ: "What's HE doing!?"

Me: I tried not to smile too big, and just reminded him "remember Mommy said I had to feed the baby?"

TJ: Staring intently at my breast: "Yes. What's he eating?"

Me: "Milk"

TJ: He sits and stares for another minute and you can tell he is really trying to understand. The he points to the other side and says "So, he eats food from that one?"

Tristan Joseph Hill

2010-04-09T09:01:00.000-07:00

Well, he's finally here and what an entrance he made! I had a regularly scheduled appointment last Wendesday, March 31st at 3:30pm. I went...no change...not dialated...nothing! So, I went to Thomas' baseball games that evening. Started noticing some contractions, but they weren't anything strong or regular. By the time Thomas got home, I was starting to think that this could be it, but still wasn't sure. But, I couldn't go to sleep to I got up and got in the bath tub to relax. Around mid-night we called my mom to get her to go ahead and come to the house to stay with TJ just in case we needed to leave in the middle of the night. Once she got here, my contractions were 2 1/2 to 3 minutes apart (we had just started timing them)! So, she and Thomas thought we needed to head on to the hospital, but I was sure I had not been in labor long enough and that they were going to send us home. But, we went anyway. When I got there, I was dialated 4cm and fully thinned out. 45 minutes later when the Dr. checked I was 5 cm. I had decided I wanted an epidural, but had to wait until I could get 2 bags of IV fluid, which the nurse said wouldn't take long. Less than 30 minutes later I was screaming for Thomas to get the Dr. He ran in and said I was having the baby NOW!!! I didn't have time to get any medication...insert a 4 letter word of your choosing here...cause that's what I did...and I don't curse! 2 contractions later and he was born!

7 pounds 11 ounces and 21 inches long

Proud Big Brother

We've already had several funny TJ moments since bringing home his brother! I'll try to share those soon!

It's Finished...

2010-03-29T06:06:00.000-07:00

and STILL no baby! As promised, I finished the nursery (Thomas finished, I supervised)...not Friday night, but first thing Saturday morning! I felt this was for sure what Tristan was waiting on, but 2 days later and still no sign he is ready to make his entrance!

Turtle prints...love them!

Initials up over the bed...turned out pretty good!

The Nursery...well, Sort of...

2010-03-26T06:02:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I got to thinking in the middle of the night last night...since I wasn't sleeping, maybe Tristan has decided to hold off making his appearance until I actually complete his nursery! Yes, I know, I am 38, well almost 39 weeks, and I should have everything in order! To my own defense, I have the bed up, all of the clothes washed, the car seat in the car, but just can't make up my mind about the last few SMALL details about the nursery! But, seriously...I'm going to go home tonight, and no matter what, make Thomas hang up the last few items so that this little guy feels like I am ready...because I AM! Here are a few pictures of the nursery as it is now...

This is the bedding...I absolutely love it...so classic and clean looking (from GAP)

Here is an upclose view...SO CUTE!

The valance that matches

The sweet turtle mobile

My mom made these lamp shades to match...they turned out PERFECT (and I already had the white lamps)!

These are little wooden turtles my mom found at Hobby Lobby...super cute too!

So, I really am ALMOST done! I just have a few more of the wooden turtles, 3 canvas turtle prints, and his initials to hang. Getting it done tonight!

Singing in the Rain...

2010-03-11T11:37:00.001-08:00

or humming in the throw-up...

TJ caught the stomach virus that has been going around. Tuesday night, while playing his Wii, he told Thomas his stomach hurt. He said he needed to go to the bathroom, paused his Wii, and was back in less than a minute. I asked him "Did you go to the bathroom?" He said yes, but just to tee tee. I then asked, "Does your stomach still hurt?" He said yes. "Do you feel like you need to go back to the bathroom?" He said yes, that he thought he needed to throw up. So, we all went back into the bathroom. He threw up for the first time, was done, and headed back out to play Wii. He didn't want to eat any dinner, so I didn't force the issue, but he did want to get back to playing! Isn't it amazing how children act when they are sick. It's almost like "the little boy that cried wolf" except you saw the throw up, you know something isn't right! Well, TJ began throwing up about every 30-45 minutes. We laid him our bed so we could try to get a little sleep in between sessions. The first few times were practice runs...we had a trash can beside the bed so I could just reach over, grab it, and put it to TJ's mouth. This didn't always work...for one, I am 9 months pregnant and can't easily lean over to the floor without almost rolling off the bed and onto the floor; and two, TJ didn't always tell me in enough time to lean over, not roll off, and grab the trash can! We ended up changing the comforter, sheets, and pj's twice! However, up until around 2 a.m., TJ was just as pleasant as I've ever seen him! Every time he would throw up, Thomas and I would get the sheets, pj's, and other items changed and TJ would just lay on the floor or in the bed and hum a little tune! I couldn't help but giggle! At one point, I was so exhausted, cleaning up poop, pee, and throw up- all from the same session- and there was my sweet boy humming away! Thomas and I were literally laughing so hard we couldn't stop. He did eventually wear out, but only until he quit throwing up around 7:30 a.m, then it was back to business, I mean playing, as usual. Thank goodness TJ is better, and we haven't caught it...yet!

Showers of Love

2010-03-09T06:08:00.000-08:00

The last weekend in February was full of showers...baby showers! On Saturday, my Mom and friends threw me a shower in Auburn. The decorations were precious-turtles everywhere! The food was delicious...a little salty and a little sweet! But the love and kindness of my friends and family were, as the commercial says, priceless!

The Hostesses (minus my mom-taking the picture)
Ann Marie, Jenna, Casey, Me, Tanya, Tara, & Susan

Opening Gifts...sweetest little Bible and diaper bag!

On Sunday afternoon, our Sunday school class threw us a diaper/gift card shower. Jerri cooked chicken poppyseed (forget the pregnant lady, this is Thomas' favorite), and the rest of the class brought yummy sides. After dinner, we all played Taboo...guys vs girls = lots of fun! The guys somehow (aka Tom) managed to destroy us the first game, but us girls let them have it pretty good on the second go around! Hoping everyone has made up with their spouses by now!

Love the Cake (Thanks Charlotte!)

We even managed to throw in an Engagement shower for my cousin into the mix on Saturday night! What a weekend! Thank you just doesn't seem to be enough to say to each and every one of you who have made this such a special time in our family's lives! We love you all!

Little Man

2010-03-04T07:25:00.000-08:00

Well, TJ is officially a little man! He turned 5 in January! I can't believe how fast the past 5 years have flown by...it brings tears to my eyes just thinking about it! We are so blessed to have such a wonderful, smart, sweet, funny little boy. He brings so much joy and love into our lives, and obviously the unknown!

TJ chose to have his party at Frog Legs again. What a fun place, and everything is taken care of! We invited some old friends from daycare, who we miss dearly, and some new friends from Springwood. The kids jumped and played and were completedly worn out by the time they left.

Thomas, Ashley, & Lacey (his first little girl friend)

Opening presents was so fun to watch! TJ usually "helps" everyone open their birthday presents, but on his birthday Wyatt decided to "help" TJ! It was hilarious! Wyatt would completely take the gift away from TJ and tear into it. I don't think he opened one by himself! Wyatt's mother was horrified, but I haven't laughed that hard in a while! He was so excited about the presents and he knew they weren't for him...it was really cute! So here are several pictures of TJ opening his presents...I meant Wyatt opening TJ's presents!

I did manage to get a few pictures of TJ after the gifts were actually opened! I think Wyatt just liked to unwrap?!

The past 5 years have been a blast! Can't wait to see what the next 5 have in store for us!

To Wii, or Not to Wii...

2010-02-23T13:18:00.000-08:00

that is the question I have been asking myself since Christmas!

Mrs. Claus thought it would be a good idea to get TJ a Wii for Christmas this year..."something fun that we can all do together" she thought. She spent time convincing Santa that this would be the perfect gift...no, he had not asked for it, but she just knew he would love it! Finally, Santa was on board and he drove to Best Buy to pick up all of the necessities that you MUST have in order to play the Wii.

Fast forward to Christmas morning...Thomas is so excited he is up and getting pumped up on caffine while TJ and I are still trying to get our beauty sleep. Well, I finally decided I would get up because I just knew Thomas was going to wake up TJ since he is not-so-quietly hanging out in the living room just waiting. So, Thomas and I sit and wait...wait...and wait a little longer. Finally, about 8:30 we hear TJ rustling around in his bed and both of us run in there to make sure he is up! Once we remind him that Santa has come to the house, he is ready to go! We all make our way back into the living room together. Thomas and I show TJ where his gifts from Santa are and his first response is: "Santa didn't bring me much presents!" Yes, I know, need to continue with the teaching of gratefulness and thankfulness...still working on that! So, he begins to open his "meager" pile of gifts from Santa and Mom & Dad. This should show you how excited he was about the Wii and all of it's accessories that Santa spent his hard earned dough on...

Fast forward about a week after Christmas...

This...

is all...

I see!

As you see above, it is irresistable to every man...regardless of age! His Papa came over one Sunday...they played for 5...yes, FIVE hours! I am very happy that Mrs. Claus was right, because she always likes to be right, but I didn't plan on her being this good! The Wii enforcer I have now become.

Spoiled in the Snow

2010-02-18T13:29:00.000-08:00

TJ has really been spoiled over the past 2 years, and is now under the impression that we get this kind of snow every year! Alabama, especially central and south Alabama do not see snow like this but once every 5 years or so...and, it's usually during spring break! Come on with your global warming Al Gore...bring it!

Love these faces...anyone else see little horns poking out from the hat?

Daddy & his snow man

Only picture with me in it...ALL others have been deleted to protect my self image ;)

Guess where that snow ball went...

Already???

Love this one!

We had fun playing in the snow, are now glad it's gone, and hoping Spring comes soon!

Amazed

2010-02-15T07:38:00.000-08:00

Our family is truly blessed to have the best family, friends, and co-workers! They are always amazing me with how much they care for us. Friday, was a teacher in-service day at Springwood. The teachers had secretly been planning a little baby shower for Thomas. Little did most of them know, there are a few blabber mouths within their midst and the secret got out to Thomas. Well, Friday it snowed, and pretty heavy for around here. Thomas had a baseball meeting he had to attend in Auburn, and so his mom called me to see if I could come to the shower because she didn't think Thomas would make it back. Well, his meeting got cancelled, of course after he had driven all the way to Auburn, so he made it back in time. Because of all of the snow, we both ended up getting off of work early. When I arrived home, Thomas said he had something to show me...

Thomas had been trying to keep his "secret" shower a secret from me, which I knew about because his mom had called me! However, Thomas and I both were so surprised by all of the gifts we recieved from the not-so-secret shower! How blessed we truly are!

Thankful

2010-02-11T09:05:00.001-08:00

I've probably mentioned a time or two that TJ is a very talkative child...well, that is unless I ask him about what he did at school that day (see post below). He tends to get chattier as he grows sleepier, so maybe that has been his problem the last couple of nights. But, he has literally talked my ear off! Thomas and I take turns reading him a book and tucking him into bed each night. Tuesday night was my night, so he chose to read Hanzel & Gretel, during which he was actually quiet. As soon as I shut the book closed he started up again. Finally I just cut him off and said, "it's time for bed, you need to stop talking." He whispered, "But Mom, I just have to tell you one more thing." So, of course, being a semi-push over, I agreed to let him say one more thing.

TJ: "Mom, do you remember in the dinosaur movie (Jurassic Park...and yes, I let him watch Jurassic Park...he loves it, just get over it, I know he's 5!) when the T-rex saves those people from the velociraptors?"

Me: "Yes" (That was a random thought...)

TJ: "Well, do you know what I would do if a T-rex saved me from velociraptors?"

Me: "No, what?"

TJ: "I'd write him a thank you card!"

Me: (Giggling uncontrollably...in other words, laughing loudly, but trying to hold it in) "Well, isn't that nice."

TJ: "What do you think the T-rex would do when he got my thank you card?"

Me: (I don't know...eat you?) "He would probably give you a big, slobbery kiss."

Memory Loss...What Age is too Young?

2010-02-08T11:48:00.000-08:00

Should I be worried that my 5 year old already suffers from memory loss? Thomas swears that he has never been able to remember the small stuff, and I always just shook it off as a "man excuse"...for those of you who don't know, that is a real phenomenon! Most every night (I like to think so at least) I cook dinner, and we all sit down at the table together. After we dig in, I start the usual conversation of "What did you do at school today?" To which TJ's answer is usually "umm....ummm....ummmmm, I don't remember." This continues for a minute or so, until I get tired of hearing "umm." Then, I turn to the direct line of questioning.

Me: "What letter did you learn about today?"

TJ: "Ummm...P."

Me: "What sound does 'p' make?"

TJ: "pa pa pa."

Me: "Did you go to PE today?"

TJ: "Yeah, but we didn't get to outside...it was still wet!"

Me: (No kidding, really, I couldn't tell!)

Well, I guess that was a little better...but, day after day of pulling teeth to get out of him what he does each day is mind numbing and obviously he thinks the same. Last week on the way home, and I had not even mentioned school, he says

TJ: "Mom, I really want a photo-camera."

Me: "A photo-camera. Ok, maybe the Easter Bunny will bring you a little camera."

TJ: "But Mom, I need one now. And not for pictures...for movies."

Me: "Ok, why do you need one now?"

TJ: "So I can photo (video) myself at school to show you what I do every day...that way you don't ask me EVERY day!"

Lack of "memory brain cells"... I don't think so!

From the Mouths of Babes

2010-01-20T07:29:00.001-08:00

Let me just start off by saying that this pregnancy has been a learning experinece for TJ...and that probably goes without saying since he is 5 and old enough to notice differences! He has been really sweet. He likes to rub his hand in circles on my belly, and most of the time I don't think he is conciously doing it, which makes it even cuter! He talks to "his baby" and kisses my belly regularly. I am just hoping this continues AFTER the baby is born. I'm afraid he may turn green soon after he realizes he isn't the only one that needs attention any more! But back to the story.
Yesterday I picked TJ up from his KK's house after work. When I got in she asked, with a huge grin on her face, if TJ's teacher had emailed me today. First thought..."Why, did he get on yellow?" TJ pipes in, "No, I was good today, I didn't get on yellow or red!" He usually tells on himself, so what could he have done that was so funny? So, KK tells me that she ran into his teacher, we'll call her Mrs. D, in the hall. Mrs. D has lost a lot of weight lately, and is really looking great! KK told her as much, to which she responded "Well, obviously not!" She explained that TJ got to be the line leader and was hugging on her before leaving the classroom. He began to rub her belly and told her "You've got a bun in the oven!" Oh yea, he did! And where did he get that phrase, because we certainly don't refer to it like that?! Well, we asked him...he got it from Ice Age~Dawn of the Dinosaurs! He is really big on quoting movies right now. We tried to explain to him at dinner that he can't just ask or TELL people that unless he knew for sure that they had a baby in their belly. He said, "Well, Mrs. D laughed when I said that...she thought it was funny!" Yea, I'm sure she did...

Christmas Eve Dinner

2010-01-11T09:18:00.000-08:00

Every Christmas Eve Thomas' Aunt Lyda invites the family (and some "extended" family) to dinner. We all bring a dish...decided on by Lyda, and stuff ourselves with food and dessert until we roll into the living room to watch football and mingle around. This year Aunt Lyda added a few more invitees to her list: My Mom and brother, Lee...this was a very nice addition and was wonderful to be with both sides of the family! Thomas' cousin, Laura, also brought a new invitee, Ronnie (sp?). This, in itself, was a very fun addition! In bringing a boyfriend, Laura was sure to have Granny-isms flowing, whether she wanted them or not. I will only mention one, since the other is not G-rated and Laura may not approve of me posting that ;) Not long after Ronnie had been there, Granny began telling him that she cross-stitches Christmas stockings for each family member. She goes on about how she used to sell them and also give them as gifts, but she has stopped that now and is saving the remainder for future family members only. She goes on to tell Ronnie that she'll give him a stocking, "but only if he's gonna marry Laura!" Way to scare the poor boy off...sorry Laura!
We started a new tradition at last year's Christmas Eve Dinner...playing Left, Right, Center. For those of you who aren't on the up and up...it is kind of a gambling game...but super fun...and the only kind of gambling I will do...I can stand to lose 3 quarters! You each start with 3 quarters and there are 3 dice. You roll the dice, which contain a dot, L, R, or C on the sides. You either do nothing (the dot...which you want), or pass one quarter to the right, left, or center. Once the quarter goes in the center it is no longer in circulation. Whoever ends up with the last quarter, gets the pot in the center. TJ enjoys playing too, that is until someone else wins and takes "his" quarters! Uncle Mike won the first round, and after a little pouting gave TJ back his quarters, plus one! See how happy he is posing with Uncle Lee...