The Thompsons

Benton and his cheerleaders

2012-02-04T17:09:00.000-06:00

Make sure your volume is turned up so you don't miss the commentary :)

2 months

2012-02-04T15:07:00.000-06:00

He is smiling and laughing all the time now. I could eat him UP!

At his two month checkup he weighed 11 pounds, 15 ounces and was 22.5 inches long. That put him in the 20th percentile for height and almost 40th for weight. People always comment on how big he is or that he looks older than he is but he is actually not as big as he looks I guess. He is wearing a size 2 diaper and 0-3 month clothes and can still wear a few newborn gowns.

I love his sweet smile and precious laugh. I could just hold him and talk to him all day. He just started rolling over from his tummy to his back. He did it for the first time on his 11 week birthday. I always forget to put him on his tummy to play. I read my friend Fran's blog about how her little boy who is about the same age loves to be on his tummy. So I put him on his activity mat, walked into the kitchen for a minute, and came back to find him on his back. I asked the girls which one of them moved him and they both said, "I didn't touch him!" So we turned him over and watched him do it again. I have the cutest video of them cheering him on that I will have to post. His is growing way too fast but we are enjoying every minute of it. What an absolute JOY he is!

I also have a prayer request from my SIL, Jaime. Her best friend's 7-year-old niece, Emma, was hit by a car and killed this week. She was riding her scooter in front of their house with her 11-year-old brother and he saw the whole thing happen and is blaming himself. Please pray for their family and for the woman who hit Emma. She is having a very difficult time. I absolutely cannot imagine. This family needs lots of prayers. Thank you!

At Home

2012-02-03T15:26:00.000-06:00

His precious stocking and hat that GG made

Cross eyed!

1st bath

Owen getting some baby love

The girls introduced him to pink right off the bat

Planting Benton's tree...a Japanese Red Maple. When Anna Clare was born we planted a Little Gem Magnolia and with Owen we planted a Japanese Magnolia

Benton's Birth Story - more pictures, dog drama, and a bittersweet homecoming

2012-01-31T21:57:00.001-06:00

Anna Clare and her sweet friend, Anna Bentley

The hospital's celebratory steak dinner

Lovely

We had a great hospital experience, and I was not ready to go home. Just like with the girls, I wished we could've stayed a few more days. It was nice to be waited on hand and foot and to have an excuse to do nothing except hold our baby and visit with family and friends. But on Saturday, it was time to be kicked out.

His sweet coming home gown that Mitzi made. Precious!

Saturday morning Steve and I were visiting with company in our room. Anna Clare was spending the weekend with my parents, and GG and Nick took Owen across the state to a friend's hunting camp. That gave us some quiet time in the hopital and our first night at home alone. The girls would be home Sunday afternoon.

Steve's cell phone rang that morning and across the room I heard GG on the other end say, "She's ok....BUT". Steve walked out in the hall to finish the conversation and I did not panic (very unlike me!). He came back in and said, "Owen was bitten by a dog. In the forehead. She's at the ER and needs stitches." Wow. Y'all would be very proud of me because I was actually pretty calm and did not even cry.

GG and Nick were devastated because it happened under their care. The dog was the camp owner's daughter's dog...a Labradoodle that Owen had been playing with the night before. Since we've always had dogs she's never been afraid of them, but we're not quite sure what happened that morning. Anyway, GG was upset and told us if we wanted her stitched up here, they would bring her home but they needed to head this way now. The lady they were staying with knew the ER doctor (small town hospital) and said he was wonderful, so we told her to go ahead and have it done there. We assurred them that it could've happened to anyone and under any one's care, including ours.

I really was at peace and was just thankful the dog had not bitten her in the eye or someplace worse. I kept telling myself it could've been so much worse. We asked GG to send us a picture and she told us she'd rather not till it was bandaged up :)

I sent her a text and told her I was not upset and that I knew Owen was in good hands. I knew she was probably nervous about how we would react and the last thing she needed was an irate daughter-in-law to make the situation worse. I'm telling you, God was at work. He filled me with a peace and I knew she would be just fine.

She said Owen was so very brave and did great while the the doctor stitched her up. Afterwards, she sent us this picture...

I was so proud of my sweet, brave girl. I also couldn't wait for her to get home so I could get my hands on her! It didn't slow her down a bit and she still managed to have a blast at the hunting camp.

Here are some pictures she sent us the next day (the day they were coming home). The swelling was what I was not prepared for and I have to be honest, when I saw her in person, I cried. She looked like a totally different child and it made my heart ache.

And without the bandage...

The lowest point for me was when she looked in the mirror and said, "I don't like myself. I don't like the way I look." Then I lost it. But she was such a trooper. Steve took her by preschool a couple of days later so her friends could see her and she did great. AND the important thing is that there was no infection and you can tell if you've seen her in person or recent pictures of her, she looks GREAT! It is healing so nicely and I really don't think you will even be able to see it as she gets older and grows. Praise the Lord! We are so grateful.

Back to the hospital...(sorry I had no idea this would be so long)

I should also mention at this point that Wilson, our Jack Russell, took a major turn for the worse a few days before we went to the hospital. Steve had taken him to the vet the week before but they couldn't seem to find anything wrong besides old age. He would be turning 13 in February. That week he would hardly eat or drink anything and just laid on his bed. It was so pitiful.

Steve and I both knew he was dying and it was so sad to comprehend. Steve gave Wilson to me for my birthday in 1999. We weren't even engaged yet. Even though he was technically a gift for me, he was always Steve's dog. He adored Steve and followed him everywhere he went. Steve even gave him mouth to mouth after he almost drowned several years ago. I am not kidding. He would've died without it and almost did. They were buddies to say the very least.

While we were in the hospital, Steve went home several times to check on him and each time, he looked worse and worse. Early Saturday morning, he went into our yard and prepared a grave for him, knowing that his death was inevitable. I can't imagine how hard that was. He said, "I know I should have him put down, but I just can't do it. He doesn't seem to be in pain, and I just want him to go in peace at home."

He left the hospital at lunch to check on him again and he was still hanging on. On the way back to the hospital, he stopped at Five Guys to pick us up some lunch. When he got back to the room, we realized that they had totally messed up our order. Imagine my shock when he picked up the phone, called them, and told the poor guy that answered that they really needed to "slow down and take their time." I didn't know whether to laugh or cry because if you know my husband, you know that NOTHING upsets him. I thought he was about to snap. He hung up and said, "I'm sorry. We're in the hospital with a newborn, our daughter is across the state and had to have 10 stitches, and my dog is about to die." We just had to laugh.

We loaded up to bring our son home that rainy afternoon. It had been a very long day and even I, the hospital queen, was ready to go home.

When we pulled into the driveway, Steve went into Wilson's room in the garage to check on him while I stayed in the car, scared. When he turned around I saw the tears in his eyes and I knew. Wilson was gone. But he had died in his bed in his sleep. And he was at peace. Steve went out in the rain and buried him and I just held our baby boy and cried. What an incredibly emotional day it had been. He was such a great dog and we still go outside sometimes expecting him to come running up wagging his tail. It was so very sad, but we were also thankful that Owen was going to be ok, Anna Clare was safe as well, and we were finally home with our precious son.

Benton's Birth Story-Pictures!

2012-01-22T17:47:00.002-06:00

In completely random order...

The first thing Dr. Nicholls said was, "He's a big boy!" And he was!

Let me get my hands on him!

First pic as a family of five :)

The girls' hands on their sweet baby brother

Proud Big Sisters!

Love this one

Daddy and his son

Letting friends know he was here!

KK and Benton

"the Papa face"

Sweet Aunt Erin

Not sure what Anna Clare was thinking here :)

I didn't cry when he was born. I felt nothing but pure joy but didn't cry. In fact, I didn't cry when the girls were born either, which is surprising because I cry at the drop of a hat. But that first night when they brought Benton to me to nurse about midnight and Steve was sleeping soundly on that oh-so-comfortable hospital couch, I held my sweet baby boy and sobbed. I still tear up just thinking about it. I cried and cried and just kept thanking God over and over for this precious gift. A gift that I didn't know if we'd ever have and one that I certainly didn't deserve. I cried in praise and thanksgiving and joy and happiness. May God always receive the glory for Benton's precious life.

Be back with some very eventful happenings while we were in the hospital and some going home pics!

Benton's Birth Story - Part 1

2012-01-03T14:57:00.000-06:00

Headed to preschool and then the hospital...my belly was HUGE!

I don't know how many parts this story will take. Hopefully not too many but I don't get too much free time and I always feel like I have so much other stuff that needs to be done other than blogging. But here goes..

I went to my doctor's appointment on Wednesday, November 16th (my due date was Tuesday, November 15th...and I have to add that I ran in a local store on my due date to get AC some shoes for Christmas. The two sales clerks were young and the girl asked me when I was due. When I replied, "today!" the young boy said, "That makes me so nervous. You need to go home." It was hysterical! I guess they thought I might deliver right there in the store.)

My doctor was really surprised I had made it this far and sent me home telling me to come back Friday morning at 5:30 am to be induced. Steve decided he would hunt Thursday morning since it might be his last chance for a while. G.G. made plans to drive over late Thursday afternoon so that she could be home with the girls Friday morning and get them to school.

When Steve got up at 4:00am on Thursday to leave to go hunting, I never went back to sleep. I laid in bed for a while, then got up and did my Bible study. I decided to get in the bathtub about six and that's when I started feeling some very mild contractions. I really didn't think anything about it and sent Steve a text telling him it wasn't a big deal but just keep his phone close by just in case. Well, they started coming more frequently and by 7:30 when it was time to take Anna Clare to school, I was starting to be in pain. I remember driving through car line thinking, "I am in labor!"

When we got back home a little before 8 I sent Steve another text and told him they were definitely contractions and he did NOT need to go to the office, he needed to come home...NOW. He called me and told me he was on his way. I finished packing my bag and started loading the car with our stuff. The plan was to take Owen to preschool, call the nurse on the way, and hopefully head to the hospital.

I was hurting in this picture!

Steve got home, packed his stuff, and we loaded up. I called the doctor's office on the way to preschool and waited on hold for the on call nurse forever. I finally just hung up and called Labor and Delivery. I told them I was two days past my due date, this was my 3rd baby, and my contractions were 5 minutes apart or less. The nurse said, "We're full. We don't even have a room to put you in." Hmmm....not sure what she thought I was supposed to do about that. She told me she would put me through to the on call nurse at the doctor's office. Great. This time the nurse picked up and I told her the same thing I told L & D. She said, "You need to head on to Labor and Delivery." This would have been comical if I had not been in pain. I told her I tried that and they wouldn't take me. She told me to she would call them and call me right back. By this time we had taken Owen to preschool and were sitting in the parking lot at the hospital. Finally she called back and told me to check in at the ER and get started on my paperwork. We did, and they got us up to L & D pretty quickly where we waited in the hall for them to clean a room that had just been vacated. They were THAT busy.

The doctor on call was Dr. Nicholls, whom I had heard wonderful things about and remembered how nice he was when I had seen him on rotation during my pregnancy with Owen. By the time they got me settled in and he came around to check on me I was six centimeters. Yikes! My biggest fear was missing my epidural which I mentioned to the nurse more than once and she assured me I would get it. In the meantime, GG was on her way and so were my parents and my sister. My mom was first to arrive and pretty soon after that the anesthesiologist arrived, Praise the Lord! By the time Steve and my mom were allowed back in I was feeling good and in no pain.

Anna Clare had begged to be checked out so she could be there (not in the delivery room obviously but just at the hospital). So Steve called my dad and asked him to stop by her school and pick her up. We knew she would be so surprised and so excited. In the meantime, I called her piano teacher from the hospital bed to cancel her lesson for that afternoon :)

My labor slowed down a bit after the epidural so I sent Steve and my dad to go get a quick lunch, and my mom, sister, AC and I waited on GG to arrive, which she did about 1:30.

When Steve and my dad got back, I talked the others into going down to eat at Subway in the lobby and promised them I would call them if anything changed. About the time they were getting back, the nurse came to check me and told us it was time! She was from my hometown so we all knew her which was great. She was wonderful and so was Dr. Nicholls. I pushed about 5 minutes and Benton made his way into the world! Steve kept saying later he had no idea he would be here that fast! It was an amazingly wonderful experience.

Our beautiful baby boy!

November 17, 2011 3:10 pm 9 pounds, 6 ounces, 21.5 inches

More to come!

Why we never leave Benton unattended

2011-12-27T17:16:00.000-06:00

I promise we were sitting in the middle of my bed and I was ready to grab him if I needed to. One thing's for sure...this boy is gonna be tough!

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-24T15:57:00.000-06:00

I was hoping to post our Christmas card/birth announcement but could not upload it in the format it's in. Hopefully I can figure that out later. In the meantime, I have thoroughly enjoyed watching these videos again from last year. Gracious their personalities are so different! And Owen's hair has come a looonnnggg way in a year! The big cut was November 30th of last year. Thank goodness hair grows back!

Merry Merry Christmas everyone! Wishing lots of blessings to you and your families as we celebrate the birth of our KING!

Here comes Santa Claus!

2011-12-22T14:59:00.001-06:00

Some friends had us over for a "Cookies and Santa" party. It was so fun and all the kids loved it!

You see, Santa. I've been really good.

Well, most of the time...

Thanks Dowlings! And Santa! So thankful I don't have to take a newborn to the mall :)

One Month Old!

2011-12-21T10:15:00.000-06:00

Benton was one month old on Saturday! I cannot believe it.

My SIL told me about these cute Month stickers she found on Etsy for Mason. You get 12 monthly stickers for under $10 (plus shipping) and you just stick them on a white onesie. Cute!

I also saw a fun idea that a friend posted on Facebook. She took her son's picture each month next to the same teddy bear so she could see how much he had grown over the 1st year.

I decided to do that with Benton's Bla Bla doll.

He is already almost as big as the doll!

These girls may argue with each other a lot, but one thing's for sure...

They are crazy about their little brother!!

Walk Through Bethlehem

2011-12-18T10:43:00.000-06:00

Our neighbors' church hosted Walk Through Bethlehem this weekend. They have been working on it for months and months. She asked me a few weeks ago if Steve, Benton, and I could play Joseph, Baby Jesus, and Mary for a shift. At first I was hesitant because it just sounded like something that would completely stress me out. What if it was freezing? The event was outside and he would only be 4 weeks old. What if he screamed the whole time? What if he had a blow out in the manger? What would we do with the girls?

Then I thought about how hard their church had been working and what a wonderful ministry this was and how we would never again have this opportunity with our sweet little boy so I told her we would love to do it.

And I am SO GLAD WE DID IT. It was an awesome event. It was packed with people. So packed, in fact, that we had several friends and family (including my parents) that came but had to leave due to the 1.5-2 hour wait. My parents brought a group from their church that included lots of children and they just felt like it would be best if they went to a drive-through nativity that another local church was hosting rather than wait that long with small children. Our shift was only 1.5 hours but we were so blessed. In the manger scene, the people crowded around to see Baby Jesus and the shepherds sang "O Come All Ye Faithful" It got me every time. I cannot even fathom how Mary must have felt on that sacred night.

I left my camera at home but we were able to snap some quick photos with my phone in between groups.

And I have to say Benton was a complete angel. He never made a peep and slept though the entire thing. During the 1st group, he gave a little half smile in his sleep when the shepherds starting singing, and it was the sweetest thing I've ever seen. Several people came right up to him and asked us if he was real because he looked like a little baby doll. And he did NOT have a blow out in the manger. (On the way to the church I was praying out loud for the events of the night and prayed specifically that he would not. When I finished praying, Steve laughed at me and said "Well, if he does, it will be holy crap." I had to laugh.
The weather was perfect, actually unusually hot for this time of year. GG was here to keep Owen, and a sweet friend transported AC to and from a birthday party. As usual, God took care of all the details.

Steve said we need to have another baby next year just so we might have the chance to be in it again. Kidding!

Pictures!

2011-12-08T15:27:00.000-06:00

No, not from my camera, but these are much more fabulous! Lindsay Nicholls with Linzies Photography came and took some pics of Benton and the girls and she is wonderful! You can see the images on her website. Click on "client" and the password is Benton. And here is her blog if you want to check it out.

And Benton is 3 weeks today...

2 weeks

2011-12-03T12:51:00.000-06:00

2 weeks old. With those red eyes and pale skin, he is looking a little Cullen-ish, for all you Twilight people

1 week - much better on the color and eyes

Here's what they are doing right now. These naps are what Steve waited 10 months for :)

Hope to post hospital pics soon!

Thankful is such an understatement

2011-11-24T13:41:00.000-06:00

Benton Money Thompson

Benton is here! He's a week old actually. He was born Thursday, November 17th at 3:10pm weighing 9 pounds, 6 ounces and 21.5 inches.

I have lots and lots and lots of pictures to share and a story to tell, but the computer isn't where I have been wanting to spend my time these last few days :) He is a sweet, precious angel baby and we are grateful beyond words. More to come soon!

Happy Thanksgiving!! This is our best yet!

Thanksgiving

2011-11-16T13:54:00.000-06:00

Anna Clare and Papa at Grandparents' Day at her school

My dad was asked to give a devotion this morning to the seniors at their church. He emailed me what he shared and I wanted to share it here. Made me cry...but then again, everything makes me cry these days :) I love you Daddy!

Thanksgiving

Sandwiched somewhere between Halloween and Christmas ... is a Thursday holiday ( a Thursday!) that is slowly becoming more and more minuscule in the minds of millions of Americans - Thanksgiving. If you search really hard in Target or Walmart...if you really look...you may find one small section of Thanksgiving cards amid the aisles and miles of Halloween costumes and Christmas toys.

For some, Thanksgiving afternoon is the time you set aside to put the finishing touches on a list to guide you through a mega day of Christmas shopping. For others it may be an afternoon of watching the Packers (MY undefeated Green Bay Packers) take on the hated Detroit Lions...a mere warmup to the Iron Bowl in Auburn just 48 hours later. Thanksgiving Day has gone askew. Maybe we've forgotten the reason for celebration of that very first Thanksgiving. Gratitude for mere survival. Survival? Really?

We tend to think of a feast enjoyed by the Pilgrims and their newly discovered Indian friends. We fail to remember that the Pilgrims had been in America less than a year in the fall of 1621. Maybe we've forgotten - or did we even realize - that in those first few months... over half of the original Pilgrim population had died from disease or starvation.

It is incumbent of us to understand that the reason the Pilgrims joined their Indian friends for such a feast was ... not to swap their latest recipes as we do today. But rather it was to thank God for bringing them through the hardships and the trying times - for His provision in very difficult circumstances.

So, with that said, what does Thanksgiving mean to you...or to me? For me, Thanksgiving meant three different things during three separate periods of my life.

(1) my childhood: as a child from a broken home it meant bouncing around each year between my mother, my daddy & my grand parents - not a trace of tradition...no attempt to have us understand the reason for the gathering.

(2) my college years: then it meant it was time to cut off the long hair and come to Abbeville for fun, food and football...and maybe enough money to get me by til Christmas.

(3) my 39 years of marriage: this is the period that finally brought the true meaning of Thanksgiving...we have always made the trip to Clarke County in west Alabama to be with Karen's family...great times...stability...fellowship

This, the 40th year will bring change. There will be a day trip next Wednesday to check on Karen's mom. But Thanksgiving day will be spent in Henry County for the first time since 1971. The death of Karen's dad in February...the onset of her mom's dementia - these changes bring sadness.

On the other hand, a new grandson born in June, a granddaughter in August and another grandson to be born day after tomorrow - three new grandchildren in the past 22 weeks - these changes bring much joy - and the opportunity to establish new traditions - or at the very least - blend them with long-standing ones.

Thanksgiving has now come to represent stability, tradition and a sense of normalcy - things that were foreign to me as a child - but the very things I so strongly desire to instill in my children...and for them to pass on to theirs.

So what does Thanksgiving mean to you, to me, to us...a renewed emphasis of our faith?... a heart filled with gratitude?...the anticipation of Christmas? Many things to many people. Perhaps this is the year that we re-direct our focus...that it may become one of gratitude...simply giving thanks...thanks giving.

As Emerson put it - we give thanks:

For each new morning with it's light,
For rest...and shelter of the night,
For health and food...for love and friends,
For everything Thy goodness sends.

Father, may this Thanksgiving join our hearts as one...may we purpose to give you praise and thanksgiving - for your love, your provision and your grace. Bless now this food, our fellowship and our time together. In Christ's name we pray. Amen.

Countdown: less than 1 week!

2011-11-12T11:37:00.001-06:00

I went to the doctor Thursday and here's the deal: Tuesday is my due date. If I haven't gone into labor on my own, he will induce me next Friday, November 18th. So.....in less than a week we will be holding our baby boy! We are so excited and can't wait for all the joy he will bring to our family. To God be the Glory! He has truly blessed us beyond measure and we are so grateful. I am still sleeping well and feeling pretty good, so just looking forward to enjoying these last few days of rest and anticipation. I would love to go into labor on my own, but would also love for my doctor to deliver him and he is not on call again until Friday. He delivered both girls and we love him. But I am at peace that God has a perfect plan and will bring him into the world at the perfect time. Thank you for your prayers!!

Nursery Pics

2011-11-07T19:56:00.001-06:00

We finally finished up with everything this weekend. Nothing like waiting till the last minute. I love how it all turned out! Steve said if he ever forgets his initials all he has to do is look around his room. Ha! Now, we are READY! Two more things....

Owen discovered Benton's boppy today...and loved it.

My sister just sent this to my phone. Steve took the girls to the fair tonight and "made" me stay home and rest. My parents and sister met them out there. Looks like they are all doing fine without mama. But I sure wish I had a corndog and some of that elephant ear!

Baby Showers!

2011-11-06T19:59:00.000-06:00

We were so blessed to have 3 different showers for this baby boy...a diaper shower, a girls' shower, and a couples' shower. I am completely overwhelmed with gratitude. Our sweet friends are such incredible blessings and we can't say thank you enough. Here are lots of pics from all three events...thank you dear friends!! My only regret is not getting a complete hostess picture from the two couple events :(

How cute is this?! Go creative, crafty Dana :)

These last 2 are from our church deacon ordination service where Steve was ordained as a deacon.

That is one very proud wife!!!

I should be writing thank you notes, but looking at pictures is so much more fun!

Saturday Fun

2011-11-05T21:48:00.001-05:00

We had a girls' day today thinking (hoping!) this might possibly be our last Saturday before Baby Benton makes his appearance into the world. I am due in 10 days so we'll see.

Steve left before daylight to go hunting (and got a deer!:) so the girls and I ran some errands, shopped for our shoeboxes for Operation Christmas Child , got their nails polished, and had Mexican for lunch. Yum!

I have never seen her sit so still in all my life.

We pulled into the driveway and saw this...

I am married to a crazy man. That is his deer stand he is in cutting down limbs.

He said he had hoped to be done before I got home. I think he was trying to send me into early labor. It almost worked. I like him better on the ground:)

Love this

2011-11-04T21:16:00.000-05:00

Halloween 2011

2011-10-31T21:37:00.000-05:00

Fall Festival at church

Tonight...Raggedy Ann turned Little Bo Peep?
She decided last minute to "change." I know that surprises everyone. AC wore this when she was 4 and Owen was the cutest little pink lamb. I hope I can convince her to wear this one again next year when we have another real live little lamb to go with it!

Surprise for Daddy

2011-10-24T22:12:00.000-05:00

AC and I ran to the mall tonight and as we passed by Mastercuts I said, "Why don't we get your hair cut?" Steve and I both love a short cut on her and he has been really hinting at her lately that he would love for her to get it cut.

Her response, "Why don't we get my ears pierced instead?" Well, that is a long story in itself and I think I forgot to post on here that a couple of months ago after eating lunch at Picadilly after church and going for a short walk down the mall she stopped abruptly in front of Claire's. "Dad, you're probably gonna laugh at this but I am serious. I just feel like God is telling me that I need to get my ears pierced RIGHT NOW!" Oh goodness!

Later that afternoon, she told us we were disobeying God by not letting her get her ears pierced. It took all we could not to laugh. We are not anti-ear piercing by any means...we are just working on some things with her for which we think ears piercing would be a good reward (i.e. sleeping in her bed all night, attitude,etc.)

So, back to tonight. With a little encouragement, and the promise of a new journal and a new book from Barnes and Noble for making all A's on her report card, she wound up here...

It looks so cute!! And I can't even begin to describe how excited and surprised her Daddy was when we got home. She said, "I probably should've done this in the summer when it was so hot!" Hmm...you think? :)

He did it!!

2011-10-12T15:06:00.001-05:00

Our little gymnast turned a very important flip and is no longer breech!! I am so excited! I would have bet you money that he was still breech because I thought I would feel him flip but that shows how much I know. What a relief. Steve looked at me during the ultrasound with a grin and said, "Now what will you have to worry about?" He knows me so well. The ultrasound estimated him weighing about 6 pounds 1 ounce and the sweet lady who did the ultrasound predicts he'll deliver between 7.5 and 8.5 pounds. Looks like he'll be our biggest baby yet. She also said he has lots of hair and most likely chubby cheeks. We told her since both his parents have chubby cheeks, his chances are good :) Thank you SO MUCH for your prayers. Lots of people were praying for this little baby and I am so thankful! Keep it up:)

Look at that grumpy face! We are in love. Steve emailed the picture to my dad and said "Maybe Benton heard that the Yankees lost?" My dad is a huge Yankees fan and replied back, "My expression exactly when ARod struck out to end our season." (That little "hole" in his forehead is something to do with the ultrasound...I can't remember what they said exactly). Everything looked great at my appointment and I'll go back in 2 weeks.

Yesterday, I read this devotion and oh my word it was written about me! I am the queen of mama drama sometimes and realize that all too often I am the source of my girls' own drama. Definitely something I needed to read and reread.

Finally, Owen is having a hard time deciding between Little Bo Peep and Raggedy Ann for Halloween. Both are hand me downs from Anna Clare, who is also recycling an old costume. LOVE when that happens:)

AC was Raggedy Ann 3 years ago and I can't get over how much they've grown!

Home Sweet Home

2011-10-10T22:44:00.000-05:00

We went back to the beach this weekend and came home today around lunch. It was another gorgeous weekend with beautiful weather. We had a great time but I will say, it's good to be home for a while! A long while. I am 35 weeks pregnant and T.I.R.E.D. And while I like to be on the go, I can honestly say I am excited about staying home and resting...I hope!

I have an ultrasound Wednesday morning to see if this little boy has turned or if he's still breech. If you think about it, please say a prayer that he has turned (or will soon) without any cord trouble or any other problems. I would really love not to have to have a c-section.

While I have peace in the fact that God is in control and He has a perfect plan for the delivery of this sweet child, I sure would love your prayers for a safe, healthy delivery, baby, and mama :)

Hello, October!

2011-10-02T22:16:00.004-05:00

We slipped off to the beach Thursday night for a long weekend. I haven't uploaded pictures from my camera but here are a few from my cell phone.

The weather was absolutely gorgeous, as I'm pretty certain it was at home too. The water was a little too cool for me but that didn't stop the girls or Steve. The ocean was as smooth as glass and we couldn't have asked for a more beautiful weekend for our last trip together as a family of four.

We bid on a couple of beach places at Anna Clare's school auction back in February and somehow ended up with both of them! No complaints here :) So we used one this weekend...just the 4 of us. In fact we stayed at the same place we stayed this time last year.

We are splitting the other beach place soon with some friends and then we will be home for good waiting on baby boy to get here. 6 weeks and counting!

Saturday morning we went to the annual Seaside yard sale and enjoyed browsing through a wide variety of treasures.

Owen scored this not-so-little hair clip and I wish you could have seen her priss around after she put it in. And AC walked away happy as can be with a $1 bracelet. We ate at the Red Bar Friday night (with only a 30 minute wait) and just so happened upon friends Janet and Gary who asked us to sit with them. I hated to intervene on their date but we thoroughly enjoyed our dinner with them.

Saturday night we stayed in and watched football and got Angelina's pizza and before long we looked up and saw this...

We had a wonderfully relaxing family weekend and now it's time to get busy in the nursery! So much left to do and not so much time. I am super excited about my new mobile that I bought at Bellamia...

AND even more excited that we finally have a name for this little one!

Benton Money Thompson

It's a very long story, but Ben has always been my boy name for as long as I can remember. Benton is a name Steve and I both liked and felt was a good compromise. The plan is to call him Benton, but we have the option to drop it to Ben if we decide. And Money is my maiden name. Very different, but also very significant and meaningful to both of us. So, check that off the list! :) Whew!

Happy October and Happy Fall Weather!

Touchdown

2011-09-18T15:58:00.001-05:00

We have some sad news to report. Stella, our cat, went missing about 4 or 5 weeks ago. Anna Clare noticed it first, of course. She said she had not seen her in a day or so. The more I thought about that the more concerned I was. She has never disappeared not even for a day. The odd thing is our neighbor's cat went missing around the same time.

There was some devastation (Anna Clare) and sadness (all of us) as we looked and looked for her, searched the pound and Humane Society, and put up signs around the neighborhood. She still has not been found and it's probably better that we have no idea what happened. Stella has been a GREAT pet. I mentioned when we got her that we are dog people, not cat people. But she totally turned us into Stella-people. And it certainly didn't hurt things that we haven't seen a mouse or a snake in our yard in the almost 2 years we had her.

Steve decided last weekend it was time to get a new cat. We wanted another rescue cat so he took the girls to Petsmart Saturday night to browse. They sent me a picture from his phone of Neptune, the cat they had decided was the one for us. Sunday before church we loaded up the kennel with plans to make Neptune a member of the Thompson family after church. When we got out of church Anna Clare requested that we not go to lunch but go straight to Petsmart in the event that Neptune would be spotted by another potential adopting family. I assured her that Neptune would be safe in his little cage and that Mama was not going to pass up Sunday lunch

After a quick lunch at Momma Goldberg's we headed to Petsmart to pick up Neptune. Lo and behold when we got there we saw a little girl and her parents doting all over Neptune. I told AC to play it cool...they were just looking around at the cats. We got a little closer and when I heard the Petsmart employee say, "You can either take him home now or come back and get him later," I knew we were dead meat. What are the chances?!?! Well, as you can imagine, the tears began to flow. She ran out of the cat room to tell Steve. Steve walked up to me and said "For the love..." We watched Neptune get whisked away with his new little family as AC just stood there crying. I leaned down and whispered to her, "Anna Clare, we prayed at lunch that we would find just the right cat for our family. For whatever reason, Neptune is not it. There are lots of cats here that need good homes, so let's see if we can find one to love."

In about 1.2 seconds, we found Touchdown, or "T.D." as affectionately known by the Humane Society volunteers. I mean, where do they get these names? I guess when you have to name hundreds of cats all the time, you just get desperate. He was sweet, and sleepy (Steve worried they had him doped up to get him a home and we would see the effects later:), and just right. She and Owen agreed he was the one for us, we snapped a picture, filled out our paperwork and snatched him up before some other family could!

One week later, he is still here and happy as can be. Anna Clare decided she did not want to change his name ~~and I once again let go of my control issues even though I feel like an idiot going out in the yard yelling, "Touchdown!"~~ He and Ollie love to play on the back porch, and Wilson won't even look at him. Stella put Wilson in his cat place long ago. So things are all happy and harmony around here and we are ready to begin our adventure with Touchdown.

Ten Years Later

2011-09-12T21:49:00.001-05:00

Yesterday was the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks now known as "9/11" on our country. Like everyone else, I remember exactly where I was and what I was doing. (Prior to this event the main "where were you" event I had experienced was the Challenger shuttle explosion when I was in the 5th grade. I will never forget that one either. For some reason we were out of school that day and I remember watching it on T.V. with my mom). On 9-11-01, I was teaching school at what was then Stringer Street Elementary, now Jerry Lee Faine Elementary. Steve and I had been married a little over a year. I stopped a teacher in the hall to ask her a question about a student that we shared. I was babbling on and on and she looked at me with a blank stare and finally said, "Have you not heard? Do you not know what just happened?" I had no idea. I hurried down to the lunchroom where our princial, Mr. Faine, had the news on and people had gathered to watch the details unfold.

We were on lockdown mainly, I think, because of the near military base and nuclear plant. I remember calling Steve at work and just being terrified. I don't remember at what point during the day our school system administration determined we were "safe." I remember being grateful that my parents, brothers, and sister were home safely and not standing on top of the twin towers where they had been just weeks earlier in August on a vacation trip. And I will always remember the shock, tears, and devastation shared by our country in the days,weeks, months that followed.

I watched several pieces on television and the internet over the weekend. One in particular showed images from the day and a young girl's voice talking to her daddy who had died in the attack first as a Kindergartner, than a 5th grader, then a 10th grader. Telling him all about what she was doing, what she had learned, what she loved, what was hard, and crying over how much she missed him. It absolutely broke my heart as I thought of the people who lost family members and friends and all the things they missed sharing together. My mom sent me this link put together by American Family Radio.

We have a "verse-a-day" scripture calendar that we keep in our kitchen. It was a wedding gift to Steve and me 11 years ago and the original copy was printed in 1973, long long before anyone could've fathomed the events of September 11th. However each year as I turn the page to September 11, this is the verse that is printed there, "If my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves and pray and seek my face and turn from their wicked ways, then will I hear from heaven and will forgive their sin and will heal their land." 2 Chronicles 7:14

I never want to forget and want my children always to realize the sacrifices made my so many then and now to protect our freedom. May God always bless America.

Baby News

2011-09-01T22:12:00.001-05:00

We had our 4D ultrasound this morning. I'm posting about half of the pictures she took. I know these are a little creepy looking when it's not your baby but it was such a delight to see our sweet baby boy moving all over the place!

Unfortunately he is breech (sp?) right now. His little feet are right up by his head!

We are praying that he turns himself around before he gets too big. If not, that most likely means a c-section.

A c-section makes me nervous only because I had two really easy, enjoyable deliveries with the girls and am really hoping for that this time around. I know some people prefer c-sections but the familiar is very comforting to me.

Look at that mouth! Sweetness.

He weighs 3 pounds, 9 ounces. That sounds big to me but the ultrasound tech indicated that was a normal size at this point. Anna Clare weighed 6 pounds 13 ounces at birth and Owen weighed 7 pounds 4 ounces. The thought of a big baby also makes me nervous :)

We were amazed at all his little features. His little full lips were so sweet and we were able to catch him opening and closing his mouth. PRECIOUS!!

Anna Clare went with us and absolutely loved seeing her baby brother perform.

The sweet lady performing the ultrasound was so much fun (she did confirm once more that it is definitely a B.O.Y.) and she predicts that he is going to look like his Daddy and his oldest sister :)

We gave Owen the option of coming with us and she said, "I want to go to school!"

We are so incredibly thankful to God for this precious miracle.

Check out those feet!

He still needs a name. It has been the source of frustration, stress, and tears. But tonight I am grateful. So very grateful. And praying for God to show us the perfect name for this sweet baby boy.

Yesterday, I received the sweetest gift! My friend Mitzi made him the most beautiful gown to wear home from the hospital. I am in love with it and cannot wait to see him in it. Thank you Mitzi! What an special, special treasure.

"The Lord your God is with you, he is mighty to save. He will take great delight in you, he will quiet you with his love, he will rejoice over you with singing." Zephaniah 3:17

Welcome to the world, baby girl!

2011-08-30T21:17:00.002-05:00

Proud Daddy

Emma Scott is here! She was born via c-section at 6:47 pm. She weighs 8 pounds, 9 ounces and is 20.5 inches. In Scott's words, "Laura is doing awesome." I am so excited for them and so thankful for a healthy baby and mommy. I can't wait to see more pictures AND to hold her! Just a few more days...

Emma Scott and her aunt Erin

Scott, Erin, my parents, and Emma Scott

Emma Scott is on the way!

2011-08-30T12:35:00.000-05:00

My brother Scott just called me and my sister-in-law Laura is in labor! Her water broke this morning (one week early) and they are all settled in at the hospital. We are anxiously awaiting updates from them and praying for a smooth, safe delivery and healthy baby and mommy! Looks like I will be getting to hold my new little niece in just a few days :)

Happy Happy

2011-08-29T11:36:00.001-05:00

Happy Happy 37th Birthday, Steve! We love you more than you know! Love, Kristen, AC, O, and your baby boy who still doesn't have a name and it's getting ridiculous and stressing me out and I think for your birthday I will go ahead and name this baby to take some of the stress off of me, I mean you. You're welcome.Seriously, Happy Day to you!

She's Married!!

2011-08-28T21:55:00.000-05:00

Mr. and Mrs. Nick Holmes

G.G. and Nick were married this weekend! They have been dating for a few years and we were not surprised a bit when she called us a few months ago and told us a wedding was coming. We could not be happier! Nick is a wonderful man and they are absolutely perfect for each other. Nothing makes us happier than to see her happy. Those of you that know me know what kind of relationship I have with my mother-in-law...a GREAT one! I adore her and am so thrilled that she has found someone to spend the rest of her life with. Here are some pictures from a fabulous weekend...

Anna Clare, LeighEllen (our neice), and Owen...the flower girls

The girls and Walker (our nephew). Walker walked G.G. down the aisle. So sweet.

Add caption

Nick's daughter Kate, her husband, Micah, and their daughter Caroline. They are a precious family and we feel like we've known them for years. I think AC and Owen are Caroline's biggest fans :)

G.G.'s brother Jeff and his wife Melinda and her brother Greg and his wife Keisha

Anna Clare and sweet Caroline

G.G. and her brothers

The whole family :) Hate I didn't we didn't get an individual picture of Clara and Eric. Clara is Nick's younger daughter. They live in New York and we loved getting to spend time with them too!

The wedding was at 10 and Nick's father, Papa Nick and Mrs. Ann hosted a brunch afterwards at their home. Then we all got naps and went back to Nick and G.G.'s around 4 for another gathering of friends and family. We said our goodbyes at breakfast this morning and all headed our separate ways. It was a wonderful wedding weekend!

The Happy Couple

Because setting myself up for failure is so much fun

2011-08-26T13:06:00.003-05:00

The original rockets with the elusive chocolate wafer cookie

G.G. gave Anna Clare the cutest cookbook last year. Each time G.G. comes they choose a recipe for their baking project. They made Steve the cutest Father's Day cake in June in the shape of a necktie when she was here.

AC was flipping through the book this week and spotted these rocket cakes in a cone. Since her class is studying space she asked if I would make them for the class. After checking out the recipe and deciding instantly it was fool proof, I told her "Yes, of course!"

Houston, we have a problem.

The recipe called for chocolate wafer cookies to slide into the bottom of the cone. I went to 3 groceries stores (Walmart, Winn Dixie, and Publix TWICE) in search of these babies. Cookie aisles, ice cream toppings sections, etc...these cookies could not be found. So I bought ginger thins instead. Remember in Pretty Woman when Julia Roberts walks back into the snobby boutique and says, "Big Mistake. Big. Huge."? That kept playing in my head. The ginger thins broke very easily AND they softened over night so that most of the rockets were snoozing when I got up this morning.

Then when I tried to fix them, the sweetarts and gummies starting falling off. Frustration did not begin to describe me at 6:30 this morning. But, you know what made it all worthwhile?

This girl is so proud of her rockets

This big, ole smile :) She loved them! Falling down and all, she could not have been happier. And that kind of happiness trumps mommy failure any day of the week.

A great start to school!

2011-08-19T12:30:00.003-05:00

1st day of 4P

I am happy to report that both girls have had a wonderful start to the school year. (Thanks for the sweet comments about my last post. I have been so encouraged and our week has been so much better). Anna Clare loves her teacher. She's British and I love to hear her talk. Steve loves to walk around the house imitating a British accent. It's been cracking us up. So far, 3rd grade has been pretty great!

Owen started 4 year old preschool on Wednesday. I convinced her to wear the same dress AC wore on her 1st day of 4P. This was no easy task. It's the cutest little Dick and Jane vintage school print and I love it! Owen decided last minute it just wasn't for her, but I didn't give up quite so easily. With a little sweet talking I pulled it off. However she started bawling when I picked her up in carline when she realized I didn't have a change of clothes in the car for her. Oh my.

She has the same teachers Anna Clare had for 4P and we adore them. We are excited about this year and she loves school. She asked me yesterday why she couldn't go on Saturdays and Sundays! I picked her up today and she proudly informed me that she had earned 5 tickets in 3 days which granted her a prize from the treasure box. I am so proud of her. It could've gone either way :)

Yellow day!

1st day of ballet!

She loves it!

Happy Weekend!

Life

2011-08-11T22:21:00.001-05:00

Anna Clare started 3rd grade this week. Hard to believe. It's always exciting to begin a new school year, but it's been a rough couple of weeks over here. While we've truly had a wonderful summer and enjoyed every minute of it (although I do believe it's been the fastest yet), we've dealt with some tough issues. Disappointment - she tried out for the local theater production of Willy Wonka and was not cast. It was such a heart breaking experience to see her eyes light up as she read down the online posting and was excited for friends who got parts and then to see the tears fall when she got to the bottom of the list and her name wasn't on it. My sister was here at the time and we were both hiding tears for her. It's a good life lesson but it hurts to see them hurt all the same. Fear and Anxiety - especially at bedtime. I won't go into details for the sake of her privacy, but it's bad. And sadly, she inherited so much of it from me. I have dealt with fear and anxiety for many years and have come SUCH a long way thanks to God's faithfulness but seeing her battle it is like taking a look into my own heart. Heartbreaking. And Attitude - When did 8 become the new 13? I am struggling to find the right balance of discipline and grace.

I have shed many tears over the past 2 weeks (and being hormonal and pregnant is not helping :) but I know God works ALL things together for good. I am clinging to that promise as I realize that parenting is not for the faint of heart. I love my children with all my heart. Being a mom is rewarding, exciting, and full of joy...of the one of the greatest joys I have ever experienced. But easy? I think not.

Before I forget...

2011-07-20T22:26:00.000-05:00

Owen's 3P Spring Program

Anna Clare is doing theater camp this week. When I asked her a few weeks ago if she was interested, she replied with a completely serious, "I don't think I need to do theater camp. You always say I'm full of drama." Without skipping a beat she said, "Then again, my initials are ACT so maybe I should." They are doing a little play for the parents on Friday to end the week and she is playing the roles of Barbie and Blue Butterfinger Princess. I have a feeling it will be a real treat.

Also, I learned today that you should always meet a friend at the movies. You never know when you might fall asleep and need someone to watch your child. Was Winnie the Pooh a cute movie? No clue...you will have to ask my four-year-old. Pregnancy = Narcolepsy. Thanks, KKD for keeping an eye on her!

Only 2 more weeks...

2011-07-13T23:33:00.000-05:00

till I get to see this sweet boy! Isn't he gorgeous?! I can't wait!

We're Home!

2011-07-08T20:46:00.001-05:00

We left last Friday afternoon on a little week long adventure. We spent Friday night with G.G. and all day Saturday at the Escatawpa River with cousins, aunts, and uncles. We had such a fun day and I of course, took no pictures.

We drove over to Mississippi and spent Saturday night, Sunday, and Sunday night with Grandaddy (Steve's dad). Again...no pictures. But Grandaddy got some good ones, so I will snag some from him.

Monday, the 4th, we went back to G.G.'s and spent the day and night with her. Steve quickly became quite efficient at loading and unloading the truck.

Tuesday we checked in at Perdido Beach Resort for Steve's continuing education conference. That's where all the pictures from this post are taken. Is anyone else tired of cell phone pictures? I know I am. I did take lots of pictures while we were there but have yet to upload ~~any pictures at all since May~~ them.

It's always a fun few days even though he is in classes all day. The girls attack him as soon as he gets out in the afternoons and we hit the beach and the pool until nearly dark. Owen was thrilled that she got to "skip a nap" each day so late afternoons found her like this if she sat still long enough...

I was so glad that Darby and her sweet children came over to the resort pool one day to play and then we went with them the next day to their community pool in Orange Beach. It was so nice for the kids to have playmates and for me to have someone to visit with!

Steve finished his classes at lunch today so we packed up and headed home, thankful for a really fun, memory-filled, safe holiday week. I don't think we've ever been gone for a whole week! It was great, but it's so nice to be home sweet home!

Today I found this...

2011-07-01T15:41:00.000-05:00

all at 50% off! I went to Bellamia today to get a baby shower gift for my sweet little niece, Emma Scott, whom we are expecting in September. All their spring and summer stuff is 50% off today and tomorrow and I happened upon these 3 little matching outfits for my crew. I love the little green whales! With an 8 year age difference between the oldest and youngest, I won't be able to dress them alike hardly ever if at all. So I snatched them up. For next summer of course. I love a good deal! Have a safe and happy 4th and God Bless America!

A few things

2011-06-27T16:45:00.000-05:00

The girls with our very 1st ulrasound picture at about 7 weeks

First of all, we had our 20 week ultrasound today and everything looks great! We had a change of plans with our sitter so we had to take the girls with us and they got a kick out of seeing their baby brother perform. We are so thankful that all is well and very grateful for your prayers. What a precious miracle from God!

Last weekend we began moving Anna Clare's room upstairs to transform her current room to the nursery. She is going to continue sleeping in Owen's room but is really excited about her "new room." And speaking of sleeping in Owen's room, they continue to squeeze into the same twin bed every night even though there are 2 twins in the room and even though Owen begs her to sleep in the other bed. But I love sneaking in there at night to get a peak of them all cuddled up together sleeping soundly. It makes me forget about how much they argue during the day!

I wish we had a picture of what we saw after Steve took her bed apart Friday night to move it upstairs. I have never seen so much crap in all my life! If there was a "Hoarders: Eight-year-old edition," she would be the star. And I think it's probably even worse that I had no idea all that stuff was under there. Needless to say we did a lot of purging and I was very proud of her (and me) for throwing so much away!

Steve put the crib together (again), and guess who is napping in it while I type?

I told her this was a one time deal, and she was so excited I couldn't resist. Her giggling completely cracked me up.

My parents and sister are on their way back from Asheville visiting my brother, sister-in-law, and sweet baby Mason. I was so sad I couldn't make the trip with them but can't wait to hold him in just a few short weeks. They are coming in July!

Wilson has weaseled his way back into the house during the hottest parts of the day and is very happy to have a cool spot to rest (I promise he's alive and well in this picture).

And speaking of hot, the hot item of the summer (for Owen anyway) is this dress...

This is just a cell phone pic but you can get a better look here. It's cute, comfortable, and cool, so if she has it on everytime you see her, please forgive us. I am completely ok with that! I highly recommend picking one up here for the little girl in your life. Thanks, Darby!

Ok, I'm back to de-hoarding closets and bedrooms. Happy Monday!

Today's Lesson

2011-06-25T15:05:00.000-05:00

In order to have a successful business, you need to get along with your partner.

That seemed to bring the arguing to a halt. So far so good :)

Weekend Fun

2011-06-20T19:50:00.001-05:00

Steve and I went to the beach this past weekend with some friends. I took my camera but never got it out of the bag unfortunately, so all I have are some cell phone pics...mostly of Steve.

Friday night we had a delicious dinner at Captain Anderson's. Yummy!

Saturday morning we slept until 8:22! And might have slept later except that Steve's brother called him on his cell phone and it woke us up. Doesn't he know not to call so early!? :)

We spent the entire day on the beach Saturday. As in we got out there at 10:30 that morning and came in after the sun went down (most of that time was spent under a tent). Or I did at least. Steve managed to sneak inside for some golf and a two hour nap. I had a book but only read a couple of chapters. We spent most of the time chitchatting and people watching.

We came in after dark and grilled chicken kabobs on the deck enjoying the breeze and the sound of the waves. After lunch at Pier Park on Sunday we headed back to our children. It was a wonderfully relaxing weekend and we enjoyed every minute of it. Thank you GG for taking care of our girls! We couldn't have gone without you!

Eleven Years

2011-06-10T16:15:00.000-05:00

Never would've thought I could love him more today than I did that day. But sharing children and life together can do that to you :)

He's here!

2011-06-07T15:20:00.006-05:00

My sweet, precious nephew, Mason Ford, was born in the wee hours this morning, 9 pounds, 3 ounces, 21 inches long. He is so adorable I can't even stand it! We are all feeling very blessed and very thankful today.

Seriously, does it get any cuter or sweeter than that?!

Jaime and Dave in the early stages of labor

We are praising God that Jaime and Mason are doing well.

I am so very proud of Jaime and Dave and think they are some of the strongest people I know. They are going to be wonderful parents to this little miracle.

A very proud, grateful daddy

My parents, Dave, and Mason

I am having an absolute fit to get to Asheville (I was supposed to go this past weekend with my parents and sister but Dave and Jaime decided not to be induced, hoping she would go into labor on her own). So I hope to be holding this little gift from God very very soon!

Mountain Trip - Part Three

2011-06-02T22:37:00.001-05:00

Since I never posted the remainder of our fall mountain trip to my brother's, I figured tonight was as good as any. You can read Part One here and Part Two here. As of tomorrow they are officially one week past their due date. If my little nephew doesn't come on his own this weekend, Jaime will be induced on Monday. We are so excited. So, Mason Ford Money, this post is in honor of you..

This is the French Broad River where we spent some time on Saturday. The weather was nice and chilly (a refreshing break from the 100 degree temps we are currently experiencing)and it was a gorgeous day.

And we have the pre-fall-in-the-river picture...

And after the fall...

The very wet walk back to the car...

I probably don't have to mention that the moments that followed were filled with tears, drama, and stifled laughter from the grown-ups. (Remember, it was October and very breezy). And because we had no clothes in the car, we were a long way from the house, and our day was just beginning, we revealed our true redneck nature. We hung her panties and jeans OUT THE WINDOW and continued our trek up the mountain. Thankfully there was a blanket in the car that Anna Clare wrapped up in while her clothes were ~~flapping in the wind~~ drying.

Remember long-haired Owen? Just a few short weeks before the big chop.

We headed to a little mountain called Max Patch.

The summit is completely flat with the most beautiful views because it was cleared and used as a pasture for cattle and sheep starting in the 1800s and was also used as a landing strip for small planes in the 1920s.

We made our way up with Dave and Steve carrying each of the girls a good portion of the way. And it's a lot steeper than it looks.

And we made it!

The highest point...

Even Ollie made it up :)

We had a picnic on the top and enjoyed some people watching.

The girls decided they would roll their way back down.

On the way back down in the car we had our first experience with car sickness. Not sure if it was the winding mountain roads, the bluegrass on the radio (kidding,Dave:), the mountain rolling that she did, or the book she was reading, but poor Anna Clare. Thank goodness we had a plastic bag in the back. Bless her heart it has happened twice since then on long trips. I think she is just going to be prone to it and we have to limit her reading.

We finished off the night roasting marshmallows mountainside by their cabin. After going to church with them on Sunday morning (which was such a cool experience...their church actually meets in a downtown Asheville bar) we headed home. What a fun, wonderful trip we had. Life is indeed good at the cabin.

And any day now they will bringing their first child, their son, into their home. Wish I was there right now awaiting his arrival. But we will get to meet him really soon. We are praying for a smooth delivery and a precious, healthy baby boy. Mason, we already love you so very much!

And speaking of prayers, thanks so much for your continued prayers for our baby boy! We are so grateful for them. I am 16 weeks and ready to feel him moving around!

Just the Right TIme

2011-05-25T14:12:00.002-05:00

Yesterday was quite a day. I went in for a typical doctor's appointment at 15 weeks. I told Steve when he left for work if he wanted to meet me there that'd be great but if he couldn't, no big deal since I wasn't having an ultrasound. He showed up at the appointment and I am so glad. Thank you God for sending him!

The nurse could not pick up the heartbeat with the doppler. I wouldn't have been overly concerned except that 4 weeks ago, she detected it right away. After a few minutes she said, "Now I don't want you to panic, and I'm not gonna panic, but I'm sending y'all over to ultrasound and you'll just get an extra peak at your baby!" Bless her heart she was trying so hard to be reassuring but I cannot even describe how I was feeling.

As we sat in the waiting room, I was calm, but tears were streaming down my face. Steve had his arm around me and just kept whispering, "It's o.k. It's o.k." I never stopped praying the whole time we waited. Pleading with God for a heartbeat and a baby that was alive and well, telling him I believed this baby was fine but I sure did need some confirmation. I'm not sure what I truly believed, but I just kept talking to Him. I have never felt any emotion like it and pray I don't ever again. My heart breaks as I think about so many others who have had that same experience, only with a much different outcome.

She called us back and told me that this happens a lot and to try to relax. As soon as she turned on the ultrasound machine she said, "You can breathe. This baby is fine." Or something like that. All I know is that I burst into tears. Like sobbing, uncontrollable tears where my whole body was shaking. Relief and gratefulness and joy and so many other emotions took over and all I could do was cry and cry and apologize for crying! She couldn't even get a good look at the baby I was shaking so much. Steve just held my hand and I know he was feeling the same way. She was truly so precious and I wanted to hug her neck. Praise the Lord everything looked great!

THEN....she said "I know what this baby is if y'all want to know." I asked her how sure she was and she said 100%-without a doubt-no question. Hmmm...well Steve told me last week he thought we shouldn't find out and should just let it be a surprise. (We didn't find out with Anna Clare and it was SO MUCH FUN and I could've probably been talked into it again. BUT the practical side of me was dying to know). I looked at him and he said, "I know you want to know." And I said, "I know you want to wait." He said, "Well, we're here and she knows and she's sure, so let's do it!"

She showed us some different views and angles and (I am having trouble getting these scanned ultrasound pictures to show "regular" size) that last one says...

BOY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :)

We are still in shock I think. The whole moment seems like a dream and I wish I could replay that part back again and again. We are thrilled and grateful and feeling blessed beyond belief. It was some absolutely wonderful news at a time that could have been anything but wonderful. To God Be the Glory!!

I told Steve I had no cute, fun way planned to tell everyone because I didn't know that we would be finding out. So we just did it the old fashioned way...we called them on the phone! :)

The girls are thrilled (although Owen informed me this morning that she wanted a sister and I reminded her that she already had a sister:) Anna Clare has been convinced from the moment she found out that it was a boy. I brought these home for the girls and they had the best time taking them around to all the neighbors as their own way of sharing the news.

And this morning I stopped in here to pick up a little something for my nephew Mason, who is expected to arrive any day now. I couldn't resist one just like it to celebrate. Hey, one must take advantage of a 50% off coupon, right? :) I am a sucker for Kissy Kissy.

So, it was an emotional day with a whole lot to process but we are so very excited and thankful for the outcome!

Farmin' and Fishin'

2011-05-23T13:36:00.002-05:00

What a weekend! Owen's waterslide party was a big hit on Friday night, and then Steve and I had a date Saturday night to see "Guys and Dolls," a local theater production. We loved it. It was a very entertaining show filled with lots of talented, hard-working actors. Afterwards we made it to California Kraze just before they closed and sat outside enjoying a little sweet treat.

Yesterday ~~after my 2 hour nap~~ we picked up my mom, who loves to fish, and headed to Steve's boss' farm for the afternoon.

Before we hit the pond, we rode around on the mule while Steve showed us all his turkey hunting spots. He was flying through some thick woods and I told my mom I felt like we were on Romancing the Stone, minus the machetes.

We also picked and ate lots of plums, the little grape-sized ones that are either really sour or really sweet. Yummy!

Each girl caught a fish while Steve, my mom and I caught nothing but gnats...

My mom put little pieces of Bounce fabric softener in my ears to try to keep them away but to no avail.

They wanted to touch the fish before we threw them back.

We headed back to my parents' house where my Dad had burgers ready and Steve and the girls cooled off in the pool.

We got to bed pretty late but it was totally worth it for a fun, family Sunday afternoon!

Slide!

2011-05-20T14:13:00.002-05:00

This monster thing is in my backyard at the moment. It was delivered and set up yesterday afternoon in preparation for Owen's little birthday party tonight. The neighbors came over yesterday and we had to pull the children off at 8:30 last night. I think it's safe to say we have already gotten our rental fee money's worth and it's not even party time! Owen is so excited and it makes me so happy to see them going down again and again and again...

Cakes by KK

My mom dropped these off earlier (I wish this were not made with my cell phone camera...it's hard to see the detail). She has made Owen's birthday cake every year and came through beautifully again this year! I loved these Barbie dress cakes when I was little and think they are adorable! Thank you Mom!

Here's to turning 4!

Owen is 4!

2011-05-18T22:07:00.000-05:00

These are all cell phone pics again. I am having issues with my camera. I can take pictures but can't upload them because the thing that you plug the cord into is all jammed up. Gotta go have it checked out. We have the worst luck with our electronic gadgets.

My sweet baby girl turned FOUR today! She started it off with a bang at the pediatrician's office at 7:30 this morning. Her Daddy was a sweetheart to take her because he was afraid I might pick up something from the waiting room...thank you Steve! She has been fighting a cough all week and the only medicine we have expired last summer so he took her to get it checked out.

Turns out that's all it is...a cold, and we are so glad! They got her all fixed up, and while they were there they did her 4-year-old check-up and gave her her "school" shots. Our office gives you the option of doing them at 4 or 5 and we like to get them over with...though I hated that she got them on her birthday!

For a birthday treat I took her and her sweet friend Lydia to get their nails polished. They thought they were BIG GIRLS! They were so precious and so serious while the ladies were dolling them up.

We met Steve for dinner at her restaurant of choice...Cracker Barrel. She and Anna Clare had blackberry pancakes. I tried them and they were delish. More like dessert than anything. We have had a wonderful day celebrating her and I am so very thankful tonight. She is having a little splash/slip-n-slide/waterslide party on Friday and is very excited about spending it with some friends. Hope to be back with some better pictures soon! Happy Happy Birthday, Virginia Owen!

Field Day Fun

2011-05-13T14:54:00.000-05:00

Easter pics

2011-05-02T22:10:00.000-05:00

Last Easter as a family of four :)

Posing with Butterfinger the Bunny

I am obviously having some margin issues but it is much too late to worry about that now. Will work out the kinks another day..

Thanks so much for your kind, encouraging words and congratulatory messages. I wish I could describe how excited the girls are about this baby. Anna Clare is truly beside herself. Each week she wants me to go online to check the size and developmental updates and apparently she shares that with everyone she comes in contact me. A couple of weeks ago someone came up to me and said, "I hear your baby is the size of a kumquat this week." I love it.

While I am feeling great, I failed to mention I am T I R E D. Like could sleep for days tired. I am expecting that to improve soon since I am only a couple of days away from the 2nd trimester. But I'm not gonna lie...not sure I want it too. I am getting the B E S T sleep of my life! But since I'm sure Anna Clare would appreciate me actually being awake when she gets home from school, I guess it's time to move on :)

Some friends of ours were laughing at us Easter morning in the parking lot at church. I waited to put the girls' dresses on when we got there because they wrinkle horribly and they rode to church in their towel wraps. Our friends said that with a newborn next Easter, wrinkles in dresses will be the least of our concerns. I'm sure they are right. But we can't wait.

Please continue to pray for those affected by the devastating storms. We are so thankful that our family members in Tuscaloosa and Birmingham are safe but the destruction is absolutely heartbreaking. There are some great ways to help out locally, but if you aren't able to do that, please, please pray.

The girls have something to share

2011-04-25T20:44:00.008-05:00

Hmmm...what is this?

No, really...what is this??

We're getting a baby?? Really? PROMISE???????

I'm gonna get to be a big sister too?

Oh Happy Day!!!

We are absolutely thrilled beyond words to be expecting #3! We are so grateful to God for His provision of this precious miracle due November 15th. We have heard the heartbeat twice now and I am feeling great! We would love love love your prayers for our family and appreciate them so very much! Oh Happy Day!

Easter in pictures

2011-04-23T16:56:00.004-05:00

And if you haven't heard Carrie Underwood (with Vince Gill) singing, "How Great Thou Art" be sure to click here. You will be blessed.

Jesus paid it all. All to Him I owe. Happy Easter! Happy Resurrection Day!

From the Mountains to the Beach

2011-04-15T20:18:00.011-05:00

(This is a cell phone picture post:) It's Spring Break! And it's almost over! The week before Spring Break I traveled to beautiful Colorado Springs, CO, for a training conference for Community Bible Study. I left on Friday afternoon and got home Wednesday night. There were lots of ducks to get in a row before I left, but once I made it it was absolutely incredible. Several days packed with excellent information, enthusiastic, gracious trainers, precious, precious people, praise and worship, wonderful food, beautiful creation (the above picture was taken from my balcony) and quiet time with the Lord.

While I was in Colorado I missed the CBS end-of-the-year children's program. I heard they were precious and had this picture in my inbox to prove it:)

The day before we left we had a few hours of free time. Two other girls and I traveled to Garden of the Gods at the recommendation of some people who had been to Colorado Springs before.

It was breathtaking. Words nor pictures can describe what we saw. One of the girls has promised to email me some of her pictures so hopefully I can share more later. The entire trip was wonderful. I came back blessed and refreshed (and a bit overwhelmed witht the task at hand). I am looking forward to seeing God continue to work in this ministry.

I was so excited to get back to these girls and their Daddy though. A friend invited us down to the beach for a few days so we packed up and headed out.

The weather was gorgeous! Blue skies and breezy (but the water was FREEZING)! Owen begged me to get in the ocean with her but I absolutely could not do it. Just wetting my feet made me squeal!

We got back Thursday afternoon and have been pretty lazy today. We did venture out today to pick out a swimsuit and towel for this project. If you haven't participated yet, let me encourage you to do so. The girls really enjoyed picking out a new suit and towel for a special child to receive. If you are local, you can drop it off here.

Also, Steve killed turkey #4. I am told that 5 is the limit so we are holding out for that 5th one (or for April 30th...whichever comes first).

Look closely and you can see Flat Stanley in that picture. He has accompanied us everywhere on our Spring Break travels for a reading project for Anna Clare's class.

And finally, we found out Wednesday that Scott and Laura are having a GIRL!!

We are so thrilled to be welcoming Mason Ford into the world in May and then Emma Scott in September. A year full of baby blessings!

Tomorrow! Tomorrow!

2011-03-30T20:18:00.004-05:00

I love ya! Tomorrow! You're only a day away!

It's here! Anna Clare's school production of "Annie" begins tomorrow night and we are so excited! After weeks and weeks of rehearsals the first of six sold-out performances is Thursday night. The cast has worked incredibly hard, and it's going to be a great show! I am so very proud of Anna Clare (and all the girls...and guys). She is in the orphan chorus, and they have practiced every single Saturday since the end of January and several school nights (and all day yesterday) the last couple of weeks. She only missed one rehearsal (when she had the flu), and has missed four Saturday birthday parties. She has yet to complain at all, which tells me that she is truly loving it! Besides being a great experience and just plain fun, I think it has taught her about commitment as well. She is especially excited about wearing make-up! ("Mom...make sure you read the make-up sheet. It says girls DO wear mascara!") A HUGE thank-you to G.G. for making her orphan costume. We can't wait to see our little orphan perform!

Birthday Weekend

2011-03-26T20:58:00.029-05:00

We had a birthday-celebratin' weekend around here. I turned 36 on Friday and we loaded up with some friends and headed to the Log Cabin.

It's just across the state line and we highly recommend it. Steve and I had not been in several years but we will definitely be going back. They have excellent seafood, steaks, burgers, and lots of other stuff. We were missing some friends, but it was opening night for baseball. It was a great night with great friends, and Steve and I were still laughing the next day!

And then...Anna Clare turned 8 today!!

We went to her favorite Mexican restaurant, and the girls gorged themselves on cheese dip as usual:)

Then we came home and sang to her again while she blew out the candles on the Butterfinger cake that my mom made her...

We celebrated her birthday last Friday night with a slumber/pool party at a local hotel. She and her friend Claire have birthdays just a few days apart so we did a combined party.

It really turned out to be a great party! They had the indoor pool and hot tub pretty much to themselves.

This little fish seemed to enjoy the pool as much as anyone.

She must have jumped in at least 50 times!

Then we had pizza and cake...

And it was back for more swimming.

This little girl wore herself out and went home with her Daddy for a good night's rest.

Then we went upstairs and hung out in the two suites we had. They thought staying in a hotel was super fun and we only had 1 noise complaint! (I just happened to overhear a nice couple telling the desk clerk that they had been trying to get to sleep since 8 and the room next door was extra noisy. I apologized to them and assured them we would quiet down right away :) They were asleep by 11:00 and slept till 7:00 or 7:30 the next morning, which I thought was not too shabby! Then they went downstairs and tore into the hotel breakfast!

For party favors, we gave the girls a noodle for the pool and these pillowcases. We ironed a group pool picture on them and they took turns signing each others. It was a really fun and easy party!

Happy 8th Birthday Anna Clare! I love you so much-y with all my heart-y (just a little something we like to say to each other:)

While I was out of town....

2011-03-11T20:12:00.003-06:00

This little girl pulled her 9th tooth! Hoping the tooth fairy comes tonight!

Last Week

2011-03-07T20:28:00.013-06:00

Thank you all so much for your prayers for our family. We are so thankful for them. We made a quick trip to the other side of the state for my granddaddy's funeral. Even though it was under sad circumstances, it was so good to see aunts, uncles, cousins, and especially my Mema.

Unfortunately my expectations were for a bit too high for a three-year-old when it comes to a funeral. Although I had crayons and a coloring book, Owen was quite disruptive pretty early into the service. I made the choice to take her outside, and the moment we walked out, the sadness was overwhelming. Sadness, not only for the loss of my grandaddy, but for missing his funeral which including hearing my Daddy speak. Owen and I sat on the curb of the mortuary having our own little pity party. She was crying because I was crying. Steve was a pallbearer so he wasn't sitting with us, and I should've asked someone ahead of time if they would take care of her should the need arise. Anyway, hindsight...

After the graveside service (during which my brother played "I'll Fly Away" on his guitar and we were all incredibly moved as we sang along), a group of sweet ladies fed all of the family a delicious lunch at my grandparents' church. We then spent some time with my grandmother and it was so good just to hug her and see her sweet smile. Mema and June-June's favorite song was Tennessee Waltz and at their 60th wedding anniversary, my brother played it on his guitar while they danced. During this trip, I learned that June-June took a radio over to Mema's room a few weeks ago, got her up and danced with her to their favorite song. Sweetness.

We went by my grandparents' house to look around at old "stuff" and visit with my parents, brothers, and sisters-in-law a little more before everyone started heading separate ways.

The girls had an absolute blast with their cousins. Anna Clare cried when we left, and we promised them all to get together more often. And I cried again on the way home. I guess being with family you don't see enough and then having to say good-bye does that to you, or it does to me anyway:)

On Saturday the four of us participated in the Juvenile Diabetes Walk in honor of our sweet friend Lydia, who is one brave little princess.

It was a great turnout despite the rain and all the kids were so precious in their "Team Lydia" t-shirts.

And since everyone in my house is fast asleep, I think I will join them! Night Night!

June-June

2011-02-27T19:00:00.006-06:00

My dad called after church today with some sad, unexpected news. My grandaddy (June-June as everyone called him) passed away this morning. It is bittersweet. We are rejoicing that he is with Jesus, but sad that he is gone.

I am especially sad for my grandmother Mema. She has been in an assisted living facility for almost 2 years and dementia is slowly robbing her of her mind and memory. It breaks my heart to think that she will not be able to see him every single day as she has over the past 68 years that they have been married. But he was 90 years old and lived a very full life. He loved his 3 children, 10 grandchildren, and 8 great grandchildren. And for that, we are so thankful.

Please pray for my mom and her siblings and for my Mema, as we are not quite sure how she will process this. But God is good and He is sovereign, and knowing that they will be reunited in Heaven brings great peace.

I hope Steve and I will be married for 68 years! My grandparents are an inspiration for sure!

We took a little trip

2011-02-24T19:54:00.019-06:00

We took a little day trip to Auburn last weekend. The first trip for the girls and a trip down Memory Lane for Steve and me.

We packed like we were leaving for a week.

Taking care of the necessities along the way...

When we got into town we stopped for lunch at Niffer's. (Not my all time favorite restaurant from college but kid-friendly and good food) It's a good thing we went straight there because we experienced the 3rd case of "car sickness" with Anna Clare (first in the mountains and then on the way to Tuscaloosa last fall) and made it to the restroom just in time. Bless her. So pitiful :(

Then we headed out to show the girls some of our old favorites.

Grand National...the golf course where Steve and I met.

A little play time on the driving range

Steve's garage apartment where he lived while working in Auburn (His was the one in the back, also known as "the palace" because it was so incredibly fancy)

Told them that Daddy kissed Mommy for the first time standing in that driveway. Anna Clare's response, "Ewwwwwwwwww!"

Next up, some of the places I lived during my college years

Alpha Gam dorm - had such a great time living in that 3rd floor suite on the end

Loved this little duplex on Gay Street where we could walk down to Amsterdam Cafe (which was one of my favorite places...turkey wrap anyone?)

Apartment during grad school on Donahue (right next to Momma G's on Magnolia)

Then we drove around campus (Owen kept asking, "When are we gonna get to camp?")

We parked downtown and walked to Toomer's Corner to see first hand the sad state of the Toomer's Oaks.

And then, of course, headed across the street for a visit to Toomer's Drugstore

Finished off with some Chill yogurt (except for Owen who inhaled a Blue Bell cone at the drugstore)

And then all got naps on the way home, including Steve

Just Kidding

It was such a fun trip with lots of great memories, and I'm so glad we got the chance to go! War Eagle!

Valentine's Day

2011-02-17T22:33:00.001-06:00

Making Valentine's with GG...

My sweet parents brought me flowers Sunday night. Tulips are my favorite!

A surprise pedicure from ~~Steve~~ the girls!

I made Steve a strawberry cake. This is so not a joke. I decided at the last minute to poke holes in it and pour sweetened condensed milk over it (because he LOVES sweetened condensed milk and could eat it out of the can) and though I have done this with many a "pyrex" cake, the combination of this cake and the holes and the milk and the cream cheese frosting = complete come apart.

Obviously my crew is not into presentation, thank goodness.

Steve's surprise for the girls

Daddy/Daughter backyard camp-out coming soon!

Proud of this girl!

2011-02-07T13:00:00.001-06:00

If you know how much of an issue we've had with Owen and her teeth brushing you will be proud of her too! She despises brushing her teeth...screams, cries, you name it. We have tried everything and while it has gotten better, I was dreading our trip to the dentist this morning. She did GREAT! (And so did her sister, who took this picture with my cell phone, but I knew she would:) Their hygienist is excellent and so incredibly patient and child-friendly. Go Owen and your clean teeth!

Also, I started this blog exactly three years ago today. I had no idea how long I would stick with it but so far so good. The girls have changed so much since my first post and I love going back and reading old posts and looking at pictures. Happy Birthday Blog and Happy Monday!

How's this for completely random?

2011-02-03T13:54:00.001-06:00

Steve and I had a hot date a few weeks ago with some friends and my sister snapped this before we left. We had the best time! A delicious dinner and even better fun and conversation! I laughed until I cried.

Speaking of dates, I completely forgot to report on my hunting date with my husband. (HOORAY for February! We are seeing a whole lot more of him and that's the way I like it!)

I took this with my cell phone. See the deer? That's his decoy. We call him Taylor. He can be spotted in our backyard on any given afternoon. We did see two yearling (Is that the right word? Is it supposed to be plural? As you can see I am quite the deer expert. I will just go with it because Steve is not here for me to ask and I don't think I will call him at work with that question). It was extremely peaceful and beautiful and I can totally see the appeal of ~~escaping the chaos of 3 drama queens~~ the quiet.

He also surprised me by bringing along some red wine and cheese which I thought was awfully sweet and romantic. And since I was not handling any firearms, I enjoyed the picnic:)

Completely busted her wedged between some furniture hiding out while scarfing down ice cream.

Check out that getup! Doing her laundry just about sends me over the edge. I do not think there is another child on the planet that changes clothes so many times a day. I am contemplating putting a lock on the outside of her room to keep her out of there! :)

She told me the other day that her nails needed trimming. Now let me go ahead and confess that Steve has always trimmed the girls' nails. Always. Like since birth. Something about putting clippers to those thin newborn nails terrified me so he started doing it then and has always just done it. So when she told me they needed trimming, I told her to bring me the clippers. She turned to go get them, stopped dead in her tracks, and said "Are you allowed to do that?" I laughed so hard for the longest time.

Last year Anna Clare and I went to see Annie at the Fox Theater. It was great! She is thrilled to be participating in her school's production of "Annie" this spring. She is in the orphan chorus and is so excited! And one of my former students was cast as Annie and she will be great! We are really looking forward to the show.

Three more things to wrap up the randomness...

1. I am doing a boot camp twice a week. It's pretty much an hour of torture and I wake up to all different kinds of soreness. But it feels so good when it's over.

2. Steve asked me before Christmas to pick up some blades for his razor. I couldn't find the right ones and was fairly certain they didn't make that particular kind anymore. He informed that he wasn't sure he could switch to a new razor because he had had that one since high school. The SAME razor for TWENTY years! I have never heard of such! So I bought him an electric razor for Christmas (exciting, right?) and he loves it.

3. And last but not least I am happy to report that the girls are over the flu and went back to school today. I also think we may have had the 2 mildest cases known to man. Praise the Lord!!!

Stay warm and healthy!

Can I get a "Boo for the Flu"?

2011-01-31T19:34:00.001-06:00

Daddy's Other Little Hunter

2011-01-27T16:57:00.001-06:00

Steve took Owen "hunting" last Sunday afternoon. I am not sure how much hunting they actually did. It mostly involved a lot of riding around in the truck "farming," walking through the woods, and bonfires. (She also informed me that she got to "tee-tee in the woods A LOT" and she found this to be super fun) He sent me pictures from his cell phone and I loved it!

I think it's safe to say she loved it too...a whole lot more than her sister did.

I don't think I have mentioned lately how much I love my husband ~~but I am so ready for bow season to be over only a few more days I think I can make it~~.

And now for the really exciting news.......

Laura and Scott are expecting their 1st baby in September!! Yes, this is my brother and sister-in-law who got married in July. Yes, my other brother and sister-in-law are having a baby boy in May. Yes, this means Christmas this year will be so much fun with two sweet tiny babies! Yes, we are beyond EXCITED!!

Playtime

2011-01-20T15:55:00.000-06:00

Here's a little of what we've been doing the last couple of weeks while trapped inside because of all the cold weather (not complaining though - I will take the cold over the summer humidity and mosquitoes any day).

Does your house ever look like this?

Or this?

We especially love when Daddy gets home.

"Flip the Pancake" is a personal favorite among these three...

Owen is slowly coming off scissor restriction (only under complete parental supervision of course) and is enjoy a bit of "cutting" freedom.

(She got an art set for Christmas and immediately handed it over to me and said "You better take the scissors out." It cracked me up!)

Owen and her preschool paperdoll

And last but not least...

WAR EAGLE!!!

From all the Thompson girls...

2011-01-10T14:41:00.001-06:00

I feel like I'm an Auburn freshman again in 1993...what a great season that was! We were undefeated throughout the season but were unfortunately denied a championship attempt due to probation. My Daddy, bless his Crimson heart, spotted me cheering in the stands in the highlights on Terry Bowden's Sunday night show after at least 2 different games. But he was always a good sport about it. Just like he is today as Auburn is getting ready to play for the National Championship tonight! Today I got this text picture from him...

The caption said "War Eagle from your Roll Tide friend" Love it!

WARRRRRRRRRR EAGLE!!!

Christmas 2010

2011-01-05T15:59:00.001-06:00

Happy New Year!

It's a Nephew!

2010-12-29T10:47:00.000-06:00

Dave and Jaime found out this morning they are having a BOY!! We are so excited! It's the first grandchild on Jaime's side of the family and the first grandson on our side. He is healthy and all is well. Praise the Lord! We couldn't be happier...it'll be fun to have a little boy in the family. :)

The Christmas Story

2010-12-24T13:06:00.000-06:00

Last Christmas when Darby posted videos of her sweet girls reciting the Christmas story from Luke, I thought is was so precious! I made a mental note to try it with the girls this year.

On Christmas Eve, we have read the Christmas story from Luke 2 for as long as I can remember. Last year, Anna Clare read it for everyone (including over the phone for my brothers who couldn't come home because of work). I thought it would be a special surprise for my parents if she recited it this year. So tonight we will meet at my parents' church for Christmas Eve Communion and then gather together for some special Christmas Eve traditions. I am thrilled that my brother Dave and his wife Jaime are in town this year and my sister and her boyfriend will be with us as well. My brother Scott and his wife Laura will be coming straight to my house in the morning for Christmas brunch. So we will all be together on Christmas Day!

Anna Clare and I have been practicing learning verses from Luke for the last few weeks and I must say I underestimated Owen's ability to memorize scripture as well. She learned about half of what Anna Clare did, but picked up what she learned simply by listening to us. So here are the girls sharing their versions of the Christmas story...

Merry Christmas to all of you and Happy Birthday Jesus!!

Christmas Week

2010-12-21T14:53:00.001-06:00

G.G. gave this little apron and hat set to Anna Clare when she was 3 and I just love it!

At the end of last week I told a friend that I was so relieved to have all of my shopping (gifts and food for Christmas morning breakfast that we have at our house) and most of my wrapping done and I was just going to spend this week with the girls. Doing whatever. Staying in our p.j.s all day, baking, Christmas movies, games, whatever they wanted. That same day I came across this post that was linked from a blog I like to read. It completely affirmed my plans for this week. Sometimes I feel like I spend so much time doing stuff for my children that I often miss out on time with them.

We kicked off the week of Christmas with our 3rd annual neighborhood Christmas caroling event Sunday night (I left my camera at home). We all gather at a designated home for dinner and then pile up in the back of a truck bundled up and covered with blankets to several homes in the neighborhood caroling and passing out homemade goodies. Then we end the night with dessert and visiting. It is so much fun, and I hope all the children will grow up with that as a wonderful Christmas memory.

Monday morning, my friend Denise had several children over to decorate Christmas cakes and make ornaments. Sadly, Owen had to miss because she was a bit under the weather over the weekend, but Anna Clare was happy to go and make Owen's ornament for her. She came home with these cuties...

Last night our same neighbors borrowed their church bus and surprised all the children with a "Polar Express" pajama ride around town consisting of hot chocolate, cookies, and Christmas lights. (Owen had to miss that too...being sick is not fun! But she is feeling much better)

Today we have not left the house and have spent a little time in the kitchen.

(A little break from baking for a self-portrait)

Our doorbell rang in the middle of our project so we threw another baker into the mix.

Not too bad for 3 little bakers!

I am excited about the rest of the week. Steve has even convinced me to go hunting with him this week (I have never been hunting in my life!). Should be interesting.

But most of all I am excited about celebrating the greatest gift ever known that is for all the people...the birth of our Savior!

Merry Christmas!!

Mountain Trip - Part Two ( Biltmore)

2010-12-19T12:11:00.001-06:00

Our plan for Friday was the Biltmore. Jaime and Dave had been before and since she had to work Friday, we decided to let that be our day to visit the Biltmore so we would all have Saturday together. Dave offered to keep the girls so Steve and I could go alone. He works the night shift as a nurse, however, and since they were pretty wound up when we got there Thursday night, we decided to take them with us and let him sleep.

We decided that we would stay as long as we could and that when they had had enough we would leave, whether that be one hour or all day. I am so glad we took them. They were incredibly well behaved and had the best time. We stayed five and a half hours! I never would've thought it!

The house was incredible. Absolutely amazing. I didn't take any pictures inside (I don't think you were allowed to but I really can't remember) but this was the view from the back looking out...

After the house we headed toward the gardens.

One of the gardeners explaining his job to the girls

The whole way up to NC, Steve told the girls we were going to find a cold creek for them to put their feet in. Owen kept asking, "When are we gonna get to the creet?" Well, we found the perfect little "creet" at the Biltmore...

I'm not sure if this was acceptable, or even allowed, but we did it anyway.

They thought it was great.

Then we got in the car and headed over to Antler Hill Village (still part of the Estate)

Antler Hill consisted of shops, restaurants, the winery ( with complimentary wine tastings for the adults and grape juice tastings for the kiddos), and a farm and petting zoo. On the hill is the Inn at the Biltmore for guests who wish to stay on site.

And this is Cloud, the bunny who started the craze. And my animal lover husband has encouraged the craze. I told him that he and Santa can work that out.

Gonna wrap this trip up with one last post (probably after Christmas) of our Saturday adventure!

More Christmas!

2010-12-18T12:01:00.000-06:00

No tears this year! A big improvement from last year.

These are a few of my favorite things

O's Christmas program

Polar Express Day in 2nd grade

A.C.'s letter to our elf, Nick. Yes, that does say B.U.N.N.Y.! (Oh my!)

Our cousins are here! G.G. brought this big "color and decorate" playhouse and it is keeping them entertained for sure. See Walker behind it? As we gave thanks last night for our meal and for all that God has provided, we were especially thankful that his heart procedure went well and that he is healthy and doing great! They are all having a blast together. I just wish they didn't live 5 hours away.

LeighEllen and Anna Clare

Owen in her adorable monkey hat that G.G. gave her

LeighEllen and Owen playing with the "Gel Gems" that G.G. brought

I think they are waking up from their naps...the grown-ups that is! Happy Weekend!

Signs of Christmas

2010-12-13T14:09:00.001-06:00

How about Owen's "new" pigtails? She wanted pigtails on Saturday and I did the best I could with what I had to work with! :) Thank you Lydia for our cute shirts! Here is her website. Check it out!

Anything goes when it comes to our tree. I try to get an ornament whenever we take a trip somewhere, and one of my favorite things about decorating is pulling out all the different ornaments and the memories they hold. You can also find ornaments the girls have made, ornaments we got for wedding gifts, and ornaments that we have been given over the years.

It is COLD here! I love a cold Christmas. No telling what the weather will be on Christmas Day...it might be in the 70s, but for now it feels like Christmas outside! Because of that, the zoo has been hopping inside. Wilson is so rotten he will probably never want to spend another night outside again.

Stella made her home here about this time last year. I would have never thought these two would be this close. But she told Wilson who was boss. And he's good with that.

And one of the sweetest signs of Christmas was when I walked in the room a couple of nights ago and found Owen playing with a little nativity and singing "Away in a Manger. I convinced her to do it again for the camera.

Mountain Trip - Part One

2010-12-11T16:47:00.000-06:00

During fall break we traveled to Asheville, North Carolina, to visit my brother and sister-in-law. We stopped in Atlanta at the American Girl store to break up the 8 hour trip. Ruthie got her ears pierced, but other than that we walked out empty handed - Thank Goodness!

The drive up through North Carolina was GORGEOUS! Absolutely breathtaking. October was the perfect month for this venture. And I must give a shout-out to the hunter for missing opening weekend of bow season. But don't worry..he has spent plenty of time in the woods since we have gotten back.

My brother Dave and his bride Jaime. (I am the oldest of 4. I have 2 brothers and 1 sister. Dave is 3 years younger than me. My youngest brother Scott got married this past July. So I have gained 2 wonderful sisters-in-law over the past 14 months). Dave and Jaime had just celebrated their one year wedding anniversary the weekend before we arrived. They are so much fun and we are thrilled that they are expecting a baby in May. The first cousin for my girls on my side and my first niece or nephew on my side (we will find out if it is indeed a niece or nephew right after Christmas).

Aren't they cute?!

This is their home...a cabin on the side of a mountain just outside of Asheville. We LOVE it! You should have seen us trying to maneuver my tank of a vehicle up the steep trail leading to their house. Complete with Griswold luggage carrier on top!

And this is their view if you are sitting on the front porch...

I think I would live on that porch during the month of October (except at night because it got pretty chilly).

That's Mick on the porch - one of their 4 dogs. I wish I had gotten a picture of all 4 dogs together...Mick, Cali, Cricket, and Bella. They are the sweetest dogs and the girls loved them. They all sleep inside on big pillows and I am afraid their worlds are going to be rocked in May. (The dogs' worlds, not Dave and Jaime's. But then again, theirs might be too:)

See the guitar? I love hearing my brother play. He is incredibly talented. He played The Lord's Prayer at our wedding and it's one of my favorite memories. He also (along with another musically talented friend) played the first dance for my brother Scott and his wife Laura at their wedding. "If It's the Beaches" by The Avett Brothers. LOVED. IT. You can watch it here.

OK. My girls are apparently starving to death so that's all for now. Next up...The Biltmore!

Thank you!

2010-12-09T14:03:00.000-06:00

I am so thankful for your prayers. Walker is in recovery and doing great. The procedure went perfectly. My sister-in-law sent me text updates throughout the morning and she was so very grateful for the prayers of my friends. Praise the Lord and thanks, y'all!

A Prayer Request

2010-12-07T19:37:00.001-06:00

Hello Friends!

I am asking for prayer for my nephew, Walker. He is 9 years old and is the son of Steve's brother Brad. His mom is Jenny and his sister (who is 5) is LeighEllen. Walker has ASD which (in his case) is a hole between the two upper atriums of his heart. He is having a heart cath on Thursday morning. Jenny said it's a blessing that it's a small hole and because of that, they are going in through his leg, which means no open heart surgery or bypass machine. He will be intubated, however, and I imagine that can bring anxiety to a mama's heart like no other. After the procedure, they have to monitor his leg for possible blood clots or hematoma.

Please pray specifically for Walker's health and healing as he undergoes this, for his surgeon, for a recovery without complications, and for peace for his family...especially for his parents as they are very anxious about this. Thank you friends!