Today Was A FairyTale

Somethings Gotta Give

2012-02-11T18:51:00.000-08:00

Just wanted to update real quick on Justin.

Justin had his follow-up appointment on Wednesday. (posted below)

So Justin went to school Thursday and everything went good. I went in and had a pow-wow with his teacher and another teacher about what to watch for and that they knew to call me for ANYTHING!!. I got a report that evening that he did well, but came to his teacher around 2 complaining of being weak and feeling hot. We got home and ate alittle dinner and then he went to bed. Friday he went to school, but only lasted half the day. I went to get him and he was having stomach pains and said his chest hurt.. WHAT this is new.. Long story short the next 12 hours were filled with several talks with the nurses and doctors and a plan forthe night and for Saturday!!

So we woke up Saturday morning to Justin looking very weak. He was having major chest and stomach pains despite being on pain meds all night. So I met up with his doctor at the office. She wasn't even suppose to be there today as she was on "baby rounds" at the hospitals. But she drove all the way there an hour after they closed (they are only open a couple hours on Saturday) just to see Justin. After looking him over we went over several "what it could be" senerios, but ultimately decided to send him to the hospital for a belly and chest xray!

After the test we came home and got Justin a warm shower, some dinner, and pain meds.. He was resting comfy when his doctor called to let us know the news. Basically he still shows Pneumonia in his lower right lung. Our best guess is its trying to come back so we are jumping on it with a new antibiotic. Also he had some moderate constipation and a very distended belly, so we got some meds to clear him out by Thursdays appointment with the GI.. She also decided to take him out of school again until he is cleared by the GI doctor.

Also while meeting with his doctor today we got his blood work from Wednesday back. And basically it leaves us more stumped. I won't get into it but basically lots of levels were normal like white blood count, etc.. And then some were high like his platelets, etc.. Nothing that stood out as "oh I bet its this".. But at least we have them to take and show the GI.. Good news is his Celiacs disease screen came back negative and his salt (sodium) levels are staying up!!

So right now Im gonna sound like a broken record and say we wait. I will update again when we go to the GI on Thursday! Please send happy/good thoughts and prayers toward Justin. Little man could really use them right now!!

Follow-Up Update on Justin

2012-02-08T08:17:00.000-08:00

Justin went in this morning to see his doctor for his 2 week follow-up and blood work.. We should have the blood work back (hopefully) by Friday. She said she was testing all his markers from the ER (white blood/red blood, anemia,etc).. She is also testing his liver, kidneys, etc. And she sent off a panel to check for Celiacs (sp?) disease.. We will take these test along with the CT scan with us when we go see the GI specialist next week.

Justin & his Bugs Bunny BandAid!!

Justin is still tender in his belly and has pain intermittently at times. We did get his test from last week back that checked for infection/bacteria in his intestines and it was all negative..(I kinda figured that, since day 1 I have thought it was NOT an infection).. She said she was happy to see he gained a pound in the two weeks and didn't loose anymore. She said with the round of antibiotics done, no fever (that we have caught) in a week, and his eagerness to go back to school she said he could. So she released him for school starting tomorrow. She did send a note taking him out of PE and any other physical activities until he is cleared by the GI next week. She also said if he returned and started having lots of pain over the next couple of days she would remove him until he saw the GI doctor.. Justin was all smiles when he heard he could go back to school and wouldn't miss his Valentines party Friday.. :)

So right now we are doing more waiting. I will update when we hear about the blood work and also after we see the GI next week! Thank you to all our friends and family and perfect strangers that have offered up prayers for Justin..

Better than Medicine!!!

2012-02-03T13:08:00.000-08:00

Today I went back up to the school to gather some of Justins school work for him to work on this weekend. Along with his lessons were over 20 handmade letters from his teachers and friends.. Seriously you can not wipe the smile off his face or mine!!

And some of the things these kids wrote blew me away and melted my heart. More than a few tears were shed!!!

Also when Justin was admitted into the hospital we were approached by one of the research teams there. They are currently doing a study trying to see why more kids these days are being admitted into the hospital with Pneumonia.. They asked us and Justin if they could collect bloodwork and stuff in hope of finding out one day why certain kids get it, how they actually get it, and a better treatment for kiddos with Pneumonia!! Well today he got a check in the mail for participating in the study. And yes the money is HIS!!! Thing is he had no clue about the money when he agreed to be a part of the study. He was just super excited he got to help kids in the future that might get sick!! Have I mentioned I love his soul!!

Music makes you feel better!

2012-02-01T12:44:00.000-08:00

Justin is on the road to recovery. The antibiotics have seemed to be doing a number on the Pneumonia. His coughing is better, he is eating better than he was, and his pain seems to be on a lower scale! We finally got our appointment with the GI doctor, February 16th.. Now I know why his pediatrician was upset they didn't come see him in the hospital. She said when we have to refer from a doctors office it takes 2 to 3 weeks to get in, and thats with a "rush" order!! Ridiculous

But she is going to do alot of the prep work ahead of time so when we go in to see the GI doctor we will have alot already laid out on the table!! Yesterday we went in for some of the test and next Monday we go back for the big bloodwork test.. These test will show us if his immune system is kicking back in and that his "markers" are lowering.. If they aren't he will not be able to go back to school and we will start looking into some other test!!

I know Justin is missing his friends. He called his BFF today who is also home sick from school with strep.. Justin has been drawing alot to kill time, including these awesome cartoon characters he came up with... (I love the flame throwing on is called "sweet heart"..lol

He also has been playing alot of guitar.. He never was really into it, but has wanted to play and make up song the past few days. I must say hes really good!!!

I HATE the Unknown

2012-01-27T13:31:00.000-08:00

I also HATE it when my kiddos are sick.. Over the past few weeks Justin has been having some headaches and no appetite.. Joe and I had also noticed he was gradually loosing his spunk, like he just didn't have any energy.. So I took him to the eye doctor to see if the headaches were linked to his vision.. They told us his eyes were fine and if the headaches continues to have him seen by his pediatrician..

Over the weekend Justin hit bottom with his energy levels so Monday morning I called and scheduled an appointment for Thursday.. Over the day monday and monday night he went from just no energy to having a 104 fever and extreme belly pain.. So first thing Tuesday morning I called and got him into the doctor. We went in about 9 am and they started checking him for flu, mono, strep.. But when they felt his belly the two doctors at the practice sent him across the street for a CT scan afraid he had an appendicitis.. After the scan they sent us back over to the doctors office for the results..

The CT showed his appendix was fine, but that he had Pneumonia in his right lung and some kinda unknown inflammation near his colon.. The pediatrician felt he needed to be admitted into the hospital for IV antibiotics and more testing.. So off to Childrens Hospital we went. He was admitted on Tuesday and discharged Wednesday night.. We left the hospital mad, confused, angry, and with no answers..

Mamaw brought him a DVD player & movies

So Thursday I had to bring Justin back into his pediatricians office for more testing and to set-up a game plan.. Over the next few weeks we are going to continue some testing, set him up with the GI specialist, and try to figure out what all this is and manage his pain!!

This little guy will smile even on his darkest day

I hate that we have no clue what is causing all of this.. I hate that I have been told at least 20 different "theories" and led to believe 20 different things by dozens of doctors. I hate that he is going through all of this pain!!
I LOVE that I have amazing family and friends that have been there over these past 5 days. Even those that can't physically be near have called, emailed, and texted us.. I LOVE that Justins doctor is there for us. She sees something is really wrong and is by our side and determined to find out the root to all of this.. I love that my son no matter how crappy of a day hes having, or how many times hes been poked with needles, he still smiles at everyone.. I love his spirit and he teaches me so much everyday..

I will keep everyone posted on everything.. Thank you again for the thoughts and prayers!!

Couponing Funny

2012-01-22T21:12:00.000-08:00

Here recently I have gotten back into couponing. Today I took Ems with me, she LOVES going couponing.. I mean Publix is the BEST place to coupon and shop with a toddler.. I mean you have the awesome "car" buggy to ride in, and the sweet ladies at the bakery give you a sprinkle sugar cookie every time you come!!

So on my trip today I was alittle bummed out. Seems here recently I have been running into some "shelf clearing" couponers.. I love to coupon, but I DESPISE the show extreme couponing.. I mean who really needs 60+ bottle of toothpaste, really.. Yeah you can donate it, but think of the couponer behind you who just wants 2 or 3 (like me) ;)-... Ok rant over!

So going up and down isles I knocked off half the items on my list, even 12 cans of cat food I got for $2... I scared Joe with this one. Came home and hes unloading groceries and says "why do we have cat food" with this look on his face like (oh crap).. I smile and said "oh I got a cat while you were at the farm this weekend".. I swear he didn't blink.. Then I smiled and said "just kidding" and told him it was for the donation bin.. Oh by the way I took an old tupperware tub thingy and I plan to fill it with stuff I get for free or near free with coupons that we don't really use, like cat food, and donate it!!

So we are unloading groceries and yell out "shoot" (yes I did say shoot and not sh*t, be proud!).. After looking over my receipt, which was totaled at $87 before coupons/sales (I paid $32 - go me).. Joe is like whats wrong and I look over and start ranting I failed at couponing b/c I had this $1 off coupon for kids shampoo, it was on sale for $1.50 this week and I should have gotten it for $.50, but I grabbed the wrong shampoo and instead I paid $2.87 for a frickin $3 bottle of shampoo... Yes I was mad at myself, yes I felt like I failed, and yes my husband laughed his butt off at me. Yea now I will admit its funny, but now I know why my total was over $30 when I had it planned out to be under.. Guess next time I will look at barcodes!! :)

Girls night, Boys Weekend!

2012-01-22T20:27:00.000-08:00

Friday night the boys took off with daddy, Papaw, Uncle Donnie, & cousin Josh (oh and Tracker the black lab) down to the farm for a "boys" weekend.. I remember these weekends from when I was Nicks age. Full of fishing, bug catching, hiking, squirrel hunting, bonfires, and much more.. This was Nicks first trip to the farm and to say he was excited was an understatement. They had a blast!! I got one phone picture the whole weekend because I guess they were having so much fun, momma was the last thing on their mind until nighttime in front of the bonfire..

They boys came back pooped out, and daddy did too.. Joe said he noticed Justin was having a hard time climbing the hills and didn't seem himself. The lack of energy and some other symptoms over the past few weeks has me wondering if Justin inherited my anemia.. So I'm going to give his pediatrician a call in the morning and see what she thinks.. Other than that I would say the weekend was a success..

So while the boys were off having fun the girls, aka me and Ems, had a girls weekend.. We were lazy, did alittle shopping, played outside (since we are mid January and it was 60 degrees today).. We went to eat Panda House, just her and I.. I'm loving these times and can't wait till we are getting our manicures and checking a "chick flick" out at the movies when the boys take off... Weekend SUCCESS!

Moments Caught

2012-01-19T18:28:00.000-08:00

I love those little moments you catch on film. The ones you were not looking to get, but did... The other day I was taking pictures of the kiddo.. I love this one I got of the boys. My heart screams with happiness as I can see a future were these two are beyond the best friends. Im talking closer than you can imagine. They have that special brother bond, yet they have something more I see. They protect each other, comfort each other, and sometimes act like they want to kill each other.. But they are best friends....

And then when Justin ask me "can I take some pictures" and I hand him my camera.. Emily and I pose for some not so awesome cheesy pics, some even of our feet..lol But then he caught this.. A moment I had missed, but he caught, and I LOVE!!!

Things around these parts have been mellow here lately.. No sports at the moments mean extra time at home.. Joes been going through a company change over the past month. After a big auction and see ya of StoneWorks, they re-opened a new company (Phoenix Granite & Marble).. Things have gone smoothly, but work is busting at the seams.. So hes been busy..

We got our first snowfall of the season. A light dusting, but it was enough to cancel schools and excite the kiddos AND chickens..lol

Little Things in the Night

2012-01-18T13:11:00.000-08:00

The other morning I was laying in bed after hitting the alarm clock for the 15th time and I started hearing this clinking/taping sound in the living room. I got up walked in and looked around but didn't see anything. I stood there with every light turned on when all the sudden one of Justins crayfish came crawling out from under the couch. The little booger had escaped. I swear I don't care to wake up to this guy ever again...

Master Bath MakeOver

2012-01-10T18:26:00.000-08:00

I have been wanting to redo our Master Bathroom for awhile now.. Actually ever since we moved in almost 5 years ago. Finally I decided I wanted to go bright, fun, and somthing that was on the realxing side.. Since we just got over the holidays I aimed to do the makeover all for $50.. So here it is...

The $50 Master Bath MakeOver

And this lovely artwork was done by a local girl... ME :)

Also I had to re-organize the Master Bath closet!!!

I was always told....

2012-01-09T11:39:00.000-08:00

That little girls are sooo much easier to potty train than little boys.. Well apparently the people who uttered those words had never worked with this girl....

Today we started our potty training adventure, and like with the boys I took the no holds bar and just go straight to the undies, no pull-ups, no guards approach.. With the boys this was a great success. Both were FULLY trained, and yes night trained too, within 72 hours!!!

With Emily this is the enemy... (don't even DARE to ask her to sit on the other potty)

And this is my sidekick for today....

She has yet to "go" on the potty, yet has drenched her fair share of her special Dora big girl undies... The boys I would ask every 10-15 minutes "hey do you need to go potty", but I have found if I ask Emily more than 2 or 3 times in an hour period she gets frustrated and the tears flow...drama!

So we will see how this goes and if it doesn't improve we might just pull the plug on the potty training train and try again at a later date.. UGH stay tuned!! :)

1/18/2012 UPDATE...

Little Miss is doing great and completely out of daytime diapers. We do still wear pull-ups to bed, but 2 out of 3 nights she wakes up dry.. She was stubborn at first, but took off.. YAY

A Year Start to Finish

2012-01-07T13:08:00.000-08:00

A friend of mine shared this idea with me and I loved it.. You take a picture the first day of the year and one on the last day and you have a year comparison shot!! Love it.. So lets see how much the kiddos grow in a year...

Justin

Nick

Emily

Movie Nights

2012-01-05T08:43:00.000-08:00

I must say we love netflix around here. We have been getting movies for over 2 years now!!! We do the 2 out a one time plan, and I try to set it up so we get one "mommy/daddy" movie and one "kid/family" movie in at the same time!! Then its on for Movie Night!!!

We gather up our popcorn and candies and all pile up, usually in my bed, sometimes we get every blanket in the house a pile on the couch and floor, but my beds seems so comfy.. Thing is I need a bigger bed, I mean with Joe and the 3 kiddos I have to squeeze in on the side.. But hey its worth it..

Here we are watching the Smurf movie the other night!! Love movie nights!!!

A New Year

2012-01-01T07:35:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year...

Welcome 2012, I am so glad you have arrived. I am not shy to say I am a ~~little~~ (lot) happy to see 2011 fade off into the sunset. Yes we had great moments in 2011, but it was also one stressful, trying, hard year. In this past year I have faced some of my hardest times, but I have not been alone. I have seen family members also face some of theirs. I don't want to forget the past year, but I am so excited to look to the future...

2012 is going to be a good ride, I can feel it. I mean already it has some great things in store for us! This year I will leave my 20's behind, we will watch our little 36 week preemie boy become a double digit midget! Joe and I are set to celebrate a great event in July, and in the fall one sassy little girl will adventure into preschool! We also have big dreams, hopes, and goals we just know we will reach in 2012!!

In the past I have never been big on New Years Resolutions, but this year I feel a change. This year I'm setting goals for myself and they will be met!!! So what you may ask is (are) my new years resolution(s)...

This year I will....
- Be more confident in myself as a wife and mother!
- Do more for myself & take time for myself
- Don't stress so much over the little things
- Open my eyes more to the world & people around me
- PAY IT FORWARD
- Work hard for my family
- Work hard for myself
- Have FUN!!!!

I'm telling you 2012 is going to be awesome! Just sit back and watch, or even better join us in this ride!!

Happy New Year!

Merry Christmas 2011

2011-12-29T08:47:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! We had a blast and were so truley blessed this holiday season! I wanted to share some pictures with you all from Christmas eve....

Time to decorate some cookies for Santa.....

Time to open our gifts from mommy & daddy...

Chore Time...

2011-11-19T21:08:00.000-08:00

The kids, yes all 3, have certain chores they do everyday. They are ever changing as they grow we sorta "move rank" on who gets what chore.. Well last weekend the boys asked for extra chores, but with a catch. They wanted to start earning an allowance.. AWESOME I thought. I remember chores when I was little and getting my allowance. I also remember getting it taken away sometime too.. But hey don't we all!

So Sunday night I put together the kids a chore chart to follow. If they did a good job all week on their chores, without having to be told to do them, and they didn't get any marks on their behavior/attitude portion, they would get paid on Friday!! It was a hit! They did so well all week, and I even threw them both a "new" chore that occurred once a week on the chart.. One knocked off on mommys chore list..lol

So I took 2 clipboards and 2 markers and hot glues some magnets on the back. Stuck them to the side of our refrigerator and BOOM, chore station was born!!!

And you might be wondering how much did the little chore masters earn in a week. They both go their full dollars pay on Friday.. Which was happily spent as their cousins Ryans skate party on the game machines.. That's part of the allowance deal.. They are allowed to spend it in any way they please..

Size Doesn't Matter

2011-11-09T21:18:00.000-08:00

Justin is now 9 years old and a well rounded 4th grader. And as he grows I see an amazing young person coming out in him. Hes my sweetheart, who wears his heart on his sleeve. He loves everyone and will do anything for anyone. As he grows I see him starting to take notice of things. Here recently he came home from school, not upset, but wanted to talk. He told me some of his classmates were teasing him about his size and being short. I reassured him hes perfect and its just all in his genes. Yes his daddy was tall and stocky, but I was a tiny kid. And my cousin Greg, whom Justin favors ALOT, is also on the smaller side.. Well we were until we got to high school.. Justin smiled and didn't give it another thought, but I have..

You see when Justin was born he had alot of health issues. Most were respiratory related and until age 5 when they finally figured out what was going on he was pumped full of all different medicines in hopes they would help. Turns out some I guess hurt him. At age 7 his pediatrician confirmed Justins growth had been stunted from the steroids he took as an infant and baby for his breathing issues. But she reassured me Justin would catch up as he grew, it just might take him longer..

I know and will show Justin as he grows, he was made the way he is for a purpose. Hes perfect in every way and size really does NOT matter!!!

Here he is next to his BFF Gabe and I swear one of the tallest girls in his class...hehe

Hello Fall!

2011-11-08T08:31:00.000-08:00

I can not believe it is the first of November already. October went out with an awesome Halloween night of trick or treating... My little spooks had so much fun!

Fall Baseball is OVER!!! Do not get me wrong, I love the boys baseball, but this season my wonderful husband decided instead of just head coaching his normal 9/10 year old he would also head coach Nicks team of 7/8 year olds. And though we had a blast it was alot of work, and alot to keep up with an organize!! But we did have a wonderful group of kiddos and parents. My 9/10 year old boys even got me flowers, and yes I did cry!!

No we are looking forward to the holidays. Thanksgiving will not be the same this year as we will not be traveling up to spend the holidays with Joes moms side of the family. This year has been a super huge financial challenge and we just do not have the travel cash. But I hope they know we will be with them in spirit and would give anything to be with them!

Well I am off to start on some projects. This year Joe & I are making all homemade gifts for our family and friends, but more in that in another post!

New Additions

2011-10-27T08:30:00.000-07:00

Over the past week we had 6 little chicks born. You see one of our hens, the youngest infact, decided to go broody. Sometimes wanting to be a mother hits us early in life..lol Well since we do not have a rooster and after 2 weeks of watching her set on unfertile eggs & air, since I would gather all eggs in the morning, I decided to buy her some eggs. So I found a lady that lives near Joes work that had some breeds of chickens that I have been wanting. So I bought 7 fertile eggs from her, 3 of which we were not sure if they were fertile. She charged me $5! I came home 3 weeks ago and put all 7 eggs under our little broody hen....

She was such a determined hen, I mean we had to move her twice and she let me look under her to make sure all eggs were ok and none were rotting almost everyday! Then bright and early monday morning I went out to the coop. Before I even opened the door I could hear little "peeping" coming from inside.. Over the next 24 hours she hatched 6 of the 7 eggs. I ended up opening the last egg after she left the nest and found it was just a yolk and was never fertile.. So now we have 6 new, CUTE, babies running around. They have all since been moved into the garage as the temps are dropping today and we expect lows in the lower 30's the rest of this week!!! But here are the cuties!!!

Happy Birthday Nick

2011-10-19T09:34:00.000-07:00

This past Saturday we celebrated Nicks 7th Birthday with a Halloween themed party.. It was SO MUCH FUN!! We had pizza, and hot dog mummies, ghost poop, and cake!!! I'm so glad my boy had a great time and I must say it was the best home birthday party I (we) have ever had/done!!

Here are some pictures!!

Also I wanted to say I know I said I was gonna blog like 3 times a week, but I do have a legitimate excuse. The past week and a half I have been down with nasty pneumonia.. I'm still not over this crud, and I hope it leaves me SOON!!! But I will be back to posting (alot) :)

Getting Over The Bug

2011-10-06T19:17:00.000-07:00

Whew its seems the three munchkins have been passing around the same cold for 3 weeks now... Oh wait they have! Emily was the last are hardest hit by this coughing bug. Luckly knock on wood she is taking a turn for the better.. Here she is all piled up in our bed watching her Dora & Cailou!! She better perk up because her big brother Nicks turning 7 years old this week!!! :0

Its Been Awhile

2011-10-04T18:55:00.000-07:00

Well here I am, once again taking up the "blogging" thing.. I had passed the notion to just all together do away with our blog. I mean who actually reads this thing anymore anyway! But then I was reading a friend of mines blog. She is an awesome blogger (and photographer) and she mentioned every year she takes and prints off her blog post (she averages a post every 2 or 3 days) and puts them together in a cute book/notebook and displays in on her coffee table.. She made the comment it was better than just an old picture book.. I thought what an awesome idea! So I went back and started reading our blog, this blog. I came across some post I made almost 3 years ago about some worries and concerns we were going through at that time and it actually felt good to remember those times and how we came through it!!!

So here I am, blogging again. I am going to make an effort to post at least 2 or 3 times a week.. And get back into taking pictures of the family on a DAILY basis!!! Yea they might be boring post every now and then, and hey there might not be anyone reading it. But I will have it for us! For our family to read years from now and remember, good and no so good, this time of our life!!!

With that said I will not be posting a long drawn out update post right now, I mean LOTS have been going on. Some of which I am not quite ready to share in words! As for now, let get this bloggin a goin!!!

Camping Trip #2

2011-06-29T11:40:00.000-07:00

This past weekend we headed out for our second camping trip. This time we took the canoe and bikes. The boys had a blast riding through the campground and even made some new friends! A bad storm moved in early Sunday morning causing us to pack up and come home early, but we were all so tired we were ready to get home. Here are some pictures from this trip....

This is a fish Joe caught at dusk Saturday night. It was freaky!!!

Trying Something New

2011-06-21T20:40:00.000-07:00

I love being a stay at home mom, and though I know my "job" is just as important as my wonderful husbands, its been a constant thought in the back of my head for the past 6 years since I left veterinary medicine and a paycheck behind to start the best job in the world (being a SAHM). I just wish I could contribute to the family expenses in a monetary way.. I have seen those commercials for work from home jobs, but nothing ever striked me as "oh I would love to do that".. Ive also been to those Mary Kay, jewelery, spa, and "girly" parties, and again none of them stood out to me as something I would be good at.

Then back in February I went to a friend Scentsy party. And listening to this awesome product and how I could make some cashola by introducing others to it, I fell in love.. So I set out to become a Scentsy Consultant. I have been sharing and selling Scentsy for about 4 months now and I love it. I recently receive "Certified Scentsy Consultant" status and I am lovin it.. This is such an awesome product and I am eager to share it with everyone. Its also been nice to have some extra income coming in!!

So if you want to earn some FREE Scenty Stuff just contact me about hosting a party!!

My Page - https://suzielannom.scentsy.us/Home

- (example - if you have a party with $500 in sales you will get $75 worth of FREE Scentsy & 3 half priced items) SWEET

Fathers Day 2011

2011-06-21T12:44:00.000-07:00

We had a great Fathers Day this year. We started the day off at the park with Joes family. The kids had a blast and thanks to the overcast skies, it felt great outside!!! Here are some pictures from the park...

3 Generations of Joes :)

Joe & His Dad

My Amazing Husband & the loves of my life!

My Best Friend, SoulMate, & most amazing father to my kiddos...

After hitting up the park we went over to my dads for some swimming, riding four wheelers and some yummy kabobs!!! Here is Emily with Papaw riding around the yard!!!

Happy Fathers Day daddy!!!!

Go Nickster

2011-06-16T13:59:00.000-07:00

Nick had his final baseball game of the Spring season this week. His team ended up placing in the bronze division when entering the end of season tournaments. After 3 games they pulled off a 3rd win of 26 to 25 after 6 innings of t-ball, taking 1st place in the tournament. This is alot for little 5 and 6 year olds and they did AWESOME.. Go Mariners!!

Getting his 1st place trophy...

Congratulating the other team...

5/6 Mariners

So Proud of bubba...

Goofy Team Pic...

Nick with his cheering crowd after the game...

Justins last season game is this coming Monday. His tournaments will be starting next weekend!!!

What comes first????

2011-06-15T21:07:00.000-07:00

Well at our house I must say the Chicken came before the egg(s)..lol Our little chickens are getting so big.. Its hard to believe these little ones.... (We have 3 White Leghorn Crosses & 3 Red SexLinks)

Have grown into these beauties...

Our girls are so sweet, and now that they are all about finished molting and getting oh so close to laying their first eggs, they have become more trusting and social with us. In fact if you have a treat and you sit down in the yard, you better expect to have 7 sweet girls crawling in your lap!!

I had a neat idea for nest boxes and its working AWESOME. Chickens tend to "share" nest boxes so we got 4 stackable tubs and filled them with hay. At first I got 2, but went back for two more. Hey the girls have the right to choose were they lay, right?! ;)..

(before we added two more)

So now we wait for those yummy eggs. When they start laying I'm hopeful to get at least several dozen fresh egg a week, so look out friends and family! Fresh eggs are a coming!!!

Oh and I can't forget our sweet mini-girl. She was the ONLY hen out of 8 bantam chicks we got at Tractor Supply back in March. She is a sweetie and super shy. She is a bantam chicken and will only be about the size of a softball when full grown. She will lay sweet mini-eggs. Meet our littlest girl... (She is a Dark Cornish Bantam)

at 2 days old...

At 9 Weeks Old....

Camping at Pooles Knob

2011-06-01T09:04:00.000-07:00

We headed out last weekend for our first camping trip of the summer!! It was a great weekend, not too hot and cool at night! We rented a new site out on the lake at our favorite campground. We hit a home run with this site as it was perfect for fishing and playing, just enough space! Next month we have yet another new site rented and it looks good too!! So here are some pictures of our trip!!

Fishing....

Dixie resting by the tent....

Feeding the Geese....

Nanny got to stay Friday night with us before traveling back to Virginia!!

The Storm that moved in Saturday Evening...

And my favorite pic of Daddy and his girl...

Somebody Turned 2 Years Old...

2011-05-09T09:02:00.000-07:00

I am still in shock my baby girl is now 2 years old! This past Friday the 6th Emily grace became an "official" 2 year old! We celebrated at the baseball park as daddy had two softball games!
- Playing at the BallPark!!!

After the games we headed to Baskin Robbins for some Birthday Ice Cream! As we started singing Happy Birthday to our girl other customers in the store smiled and a few joined in!!

Then Saturday was PARTY DAY!! We had a cookout at the house with the family. Emily had a blast and got tons of cute clothes and toys! Thank you to everyone that got to come out and celebrate with us!!

New Addition to the Family

2011-04-26T21:04:00.000-07:00

Miss Kali Kay joined our family a couple weeks ago. Due to colds, fevers, and snotty noses I have been unable to get my hands on this sweet little angel. But that all changed this weekend!! She is such a sweet, teeny, beautiful little thing. Holding her made me miss those "itty bitty days"! Congratulations to my little cousin Greg and his wife Miranda!! Meet Kali....

{Easter 2011}

2011-04-25T12:39:00.000-07:00

We had a good Easter and I hope all our friends and family did too! Here are a few pictures for your viewing pleasure.. :)

Its A Coop...

2011-04-18T14:04:00.000-07:00

Over the weekend we did some work on the chicken coop. I say "we" liberally as I did most of the "why are you doing that" and the "is that suppose to go there".. Joe of course just smiled and nodded at me and slipped in an eye roll every now and then..lol

The coop is looking AWESOME!! Today I took the 6 older chicks out to play in it, they LOVED it! We still have some things to do like add the flooring to the coop, finish the lift box roof on the run, add some "pretties" and paint, and put in the nest boxes, but I think it still looks great!!

Day 1...

Day 2.. Added the roof! We were racing a severe storm that was moving through TN this day, notice the nice DARK clouds in the background...

Day 3.... Its moved to the backyard, roost, door, & run are added....

Day 4 - Chicks get to check it out...

Way Behind...

2011-04-16T09:14:00.000-07:00

To all our family and friends that read our family blog I am so sorry I am so far behind.. I wanted to drop in and give an update on us. Alot has changed the past couple of months.. Ill go by kiddo ;)...

Emily - She is doing well. She has been fighting a cold/infection of some sort for about a month. It all started with an ER trip in the middle of the night with a fever kissing 105 and NOT coming down with medicine. So far they have thought UTI, Strep, Bronchitis, viral infection, and now we are thinking it may be her adenoids. She was improving, but her cough is starting to return since shes been off her second antibiotic for 5 days.. Other than that she is doing great. We have put into plan of taking away her paci "booboo".. We are taking the approach like we did with justin, slowly taking it out of the picture. Right now we are trying to go several hours without it during the day, then we will move to only having it at night, then lastly we will "loose" them all..lol Pray it goes as smooth as it did with Justin!

Nick - Little man is doing good! He has been battling a sinus infection, but otherwise has been doing well health wise. He is doing AMAZING in school! All greens so far this month and even made all s (which is the highest his grade can make) on his report card this 9 weeks!! He has started baseball and is really loving it this year! Hes alot more into it and enjoying the game!

Justin - Our big man is doing wonderful. He made Honor Roll this 9 weeks again (5-A's & 1-B).. His health has been better than us all, which is in itself a miracle..lol Hes of course eat up with baseball. He loves the game so much and eats, sleeps, and breathes baseball.. He recently got a fish aquarium for his 9th birthday and has 14 fishies and 2 crawfish. They are so much fun to watch. Hes just like his mama and would have a house full of all types of animals if we would let him!!

Joe - I have been keeping him very busy..lol Joe has been busy with work, coaching baseball, playing softball, doing side jobs, and working on cars!!! I worry about him sometimes over doing it, but then I think if he had alot of down time we probably BOTH would go crazy!

Pets - We have added several new pets to our home over the past couple of months. We have taken in about a dozen chicks. We plan on raising them for eggs and breeding the Sultans (the chick with the big "poof") and plus we hope they keep the pest level down in the garden and yard!! Here are some pics of them & the coop Joe has been building!!

Room Changes

2011-02-21T08:52:00.000-08:00

Over the past couple of weeks I got the itch to paint our living room! I was so tired of the "painters beige" thats been in there since we moved in 4 years ago! So for a more "spring" inspired look we painted!!!

Before...

After...

Not Fun...

2011-02-03T19:21:00.000-08:00

Well I guess its time for an update. Things around here have been alittle crazy. We have had basketball games, baseball sign-ups, coaches meetings, parties, and oh the flu..

Poor Nick came home from school last Friday and the boy literally came in and took a shower and went to bed. We didn't see him again till 9 the next morning. Of course mommy kept checking on him and thought oh hes just tired!! So skip ahead 4 days of a 103 fever, complaining his legs hurt, and the runs, off we went to the Dr for them to tell me something I already knew, his Flu test came back positive.. Awesome :(

Then when I get home from the doctor my mom calls to let me know shes really sick and also got a positive flu test at the doctor that day. I feel so bad for both of them! My mom has the aches and pains alot worse than Nickdoes, but Nicks just keeps hanging on. Its been a week and the poor boy is still in his bed 99% of the time and still running fever.. UGH The doctor told us to watch Justin and Emily closely and if they spiked a fever get them in asap for some tami-flu. Sadly Nick missed the 48 hour window for it and just has to suffer the full blown flu!! SUCKS!!

So keep little man in your thoughts and prayers. Hes fighting this crud like a trooper!!! Here he is eating alittle dinner..

Cartoons

2011-01-30T14:57:00.000-08:00

Emily has never really been interested in the TV. We tried popping in a Baby Einstein video a few months back and she gave it a quick glimpse and walked on. But here recently shes started becoming more interested. Earlier today she walks over and hands me my pillowcase off my pillow. She had robbed her bed of blankets and mine of pillows and was making her own pallet in our bedroom floor! After she was done getting her lounge spot just right she stretched out and watched about 10-15 minutes of a cute little cartoon on Disney called Kai Lan!! Shes becoming such a big girl..

Im Done!

2011-01-26T13:58:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but I am DONE with this snow and cold.. Come on warm weather, baseball, and camping.. But I guess the boys are enjoying these last few "snow" days...

Basketball Season

2011-01-25T18:22:00.000-08:00

So the boys are playing Basketball this winter. Justin played one season a couple years ago, but this is Nicks first year! They are both having a BLAST (and so is mommy & daddy). Justin has already had two games (both they won...YAY) and Nicks had one game so far and they also won, even though they don't "really" keep score at his age!..

They are both so much fun to watch, but in different ways. I find myself on the edge of my seat and my hands blistered from clapping after Justins game. His age group is really competitive and its so fun watching them go back and forth. Both games have been close and had nail biter moments...lol

And Nicks age is so much fun to watch because they are just learning the game. They usually have NO CLUE were to go, what to do, but dang they are so cute in their little uniforms, dribbling that ball down the court. My camera died at the last games, but I was able to grab a video of Nick with his first foul shots. Ill be sure to grab some of Justins next week!!!

Snow Day(s)

2011-01-11T08:49:00.000-08:00

Well we were blessed with a few inches of snow again this week! Sunday night we had about 4-4.5 inches come in and then Monday night about another 1/2 inch of the white stuff.. Joe stayed home from work Monday and they had a blast playing in the snow. This was Emilys first real time to go out and play in the snow. Last year she was just too small! I was afraid she wouldn't care for the snow, but boy was I wrong. The girl loved it and I had to literally pick her up and bring her inside because she refused to come in herself.. After we came in it was hot chocolate and naptime!!! I love my snow days, but we are at the point today we are all going stir crazy! So it can leave anytime it wants too...

Sad/Good Day

2011-01-07T10:23:00.000-08:00

Today was kinda hard for me, but thats just b/c I over think it! Today Emily and I sat down and together took her crib down! Over the weekend Daddy and I fixed Emilys room up with her new Big Girl bed and moved all her toys from our room to hers! This week she did awesome and slept every night in her room, in her big girl bed! So I knew it was time to say goodbye to the crib that held all three of my munchkins!

So now it sits in the garage waiting to be hauled off. Its hard to say goodbye to the thought of an infant, a baby, a little munchkin and say hello to the rest of our lives. Its slowly hitting me that our "baby" days are over now that Em is 20 months old. Its a sad but good day!

goodbye old trusty crib, goodbye Nicks chew marks, goodbye Justins marker marks, goodbye Ems toy bang marks..lol It was put through the ringer!!

Emilys new "Big Girl" Room & Bed.. I think she likes it...

Changing Table has now been converted to a "plush" dream house...

Workout With Daddy

2011-01-05T14:51:00.000-08:00

With ball season coming up Joe has started back with his P90X workout. Well this time mommy is opting out. His new partner - Miss Emily!!!

Knee Raises...

Jogging in place...

Raise those arms...

KaBoom

2011-01-03T18:16:00.000-08:00

For Christmas this year Santa left Justin some science kits. He is really into science and experiments! Tonight we sat down and did a few. We all had a blast, Nick was convinced the house was going to explode.. Here are some outtakes from the night!

Nick thought the powders were poisonous to smell..lol

Adding the baking soda

Glow in the dark fizz

Emily sitting with mommy watching

Good Bye 2010....

2011-01-01T12:57:00.000-08:00

2010 was a well, interesting year! WE had ups, downs, and amazing moments! Here are a few facts and pictures!

Good Bye 2010....

1 - Number of Broken Bones (Thanks Em)
6 - Foster Dogs we welcomed into our home
4 - ER visits
2 - Trips to Virginia
25 - Number of toys I stepped on in the middle of the night, then tossed into the trash!
1 - Teeth lost (wtg Nick)
4045 - Dollars saved by clipping coupons
3 - Number of times I locked myself out of the house
5 - Airplanes boarded
9 - Movies seen at the theatre

Christmas 2010

2010-12-30T09:04:00.000-08:00

I know this post is alittle late, but hey its not my fault... Christmas night oh around 11pm I got my last and most expensive gift. A lovely virus called "the system tool" virus and it so lovely crashed my computer, boom kicked it dead. So 4 days, over $200, and one geek squad later I am BACK!!! And yes I learned my lesson, never will I allow that dang anti-virus to expire again! So now for the real Christmas!

We had a totally awesome Christmas this year! I seriously could not have asked for a better one! We started off spending Christmas eve with Joes side of the family! The kids had a blast and I filled my belly with all the good eats! Here are a few snaps of the festivities!

Later we headed home to get ready for Santas visit. We made cinnamon rolls and hot chocolate for Santa and read the night before Christmas before heading to bed! Later that night the "guy" in red made a stop by the house as three little ones dreamed away in the other room!

We woke up bright and early Christmas day, and don't be mad, but mommy got NO PICTURES. instead I was too busy video taping everything, I totally forgot!! The kids had a blast opening all the gifts! After playing with their new toys, we got ready and headed to my moms for some more yummy food!

My mom got a sweet little puppy for Christmas, OMGosh I love him so! So far his name is "little man"..hehe

After spending the day with mom we packed up and headed over to my dads for dinner and more fun!

Its A First

2010-12-22T12:38:00.000-08:00

This week Mr Nicholas lost his first tooth!! He was so excited and still tells AND shows everyone he meets or sees about his missing tooth and visit from the tooth fairy!

Also over the past couple of months Justin has been trying to grow his hair long. But the boy has a double crown on his head so it basically looked like he had two Alfalfa hair points sticking up! So this week he asked to get it cut like his daddies hair.. I'm so glad he did as it looks so much better. But it also looks like hes lost about 20 lbs and grown 5 years!

And this picture is totally random of Miss Emily, but she has really gotten into coloring and drawing and I noticed she does the EXACT same thing I do when I'm "thinking".. We bite the pen, lol... I guess she did get some traits from her momma!

Your Bucket List

2010-12-21T21:08:00.000-08:00

I recently read a blog were the bloggin momma started a "Life List".. I need one of those I thought?!?!, I mean I have heard of a "Bucket List" and I most certainly have dreams, wishes, and wants out of life, but I never have sat and thought about writing them down! Well I guess now is as good a time as any! I encourage everyone to not only think about what they want to do before they leave this earth, but write it down, blog it, or just simply put it into words... Then get started on crossing things off on your bucket list!!!

So here we go in no particular order! I'm sure over time I will add to and change things on my list, but a girl has to start somewhere!

1 - Visit Alaska (See The Northern Lights)
2 - Become a Licenced Wildlife Rehabilitator
3 - Go on a Cruise to the Bahamas
4 - Take my kids Camping & Hiking out west (See the Grand Canyon)
5 - Go Back to School
6 - Get A Passport & Travel to an overseas Country
7 - Pay for a Car in CASH
8 - Start an Animal Rescue
9 - Watch the Sunset on a beach in Australia
10 - Learn to play the Piano
11 - Go to a Spa & get pampered head to toe & not worry about the cost
12 - Go White Water Rafting w/ my Kids & Hubby
13 - Go Gambling in a Casino
14 - See A Broadway Play
15 - Play on a Softball team w/ my husband

Love...

2010-12-14T13:55:00.000-08:00

Random Picture Tuesday....

My three reasons for the season...

Speaking of season Its looking alot like Christmas around these parts. Over the weekend we got 1.5 inches of snow and tonight we are slated to get ICE... Umm Ill take the snow ;)

What is that I spot

2010-12-13T11:21:00.000-08:00

We are seeing little red dots every were here in the Lannom household..lol Emily had a rash come up Friday night.. I thought it was her eczema on her back so I lotioned, lotioned, lotioned.. We woke up Saturday to a few more spots. Saturday night my mom kept the kiddos and when we got to her house I pointed them out to her. From the time of her bath till the time I showed mom at her house they had come up all over her back and upper thighs.. Besides trying to itch her back Emily really had no other symptoms of a cold or viral thing.. Sunday more spots slowly came out. When I went to give her a bath last night I took her clothes off and they were EVERYWERE.. I kept saying the whole time it looks like chicken pox, but was like no it couldn't be.. So I talked to the on call nurse and she told us to just come in Monday morning.

So over the night we were blessed with roughly 2 inches on snow, that's enough to shut down our neck of the woods.. So Joe stayed home to take us in to the pediatrician..

By this time Emily had little red spots all over, all on her face and in her hair.. Today she is grumpy, but still no fever, lethargy, or anything.. The Pedi told us she was 99% sure it was the pox. She said we would know 100% if they start to scab as the week goes on.. We looked back through her chart ad she actually missed her 15 month shots when she aspirated fluid and had a mild pneumonia and so we missed that shot, so no immunity.. AWESOME (not)...

So as of right now she is getting benadryl and Tylenol and been put on house arrest (quarantine)..lol The boys are bummed mommy and Emily will miss their Christmas plays this week, but daddy is going to go and take video for us! So I guess all I can say is... Here chicken chicken CHICKEN... ;)

Moving Slowly

2010-12-11T08:11:00.000-08:00

I feel like these past few weeks I have been moving in slow motion. We finally got our Christmas Tree up this past weekend. For years it was a tradition to put it and the lights around the house up the day after Thanksgiving, but this year it took us an extra week to re-coup.. But I must say it looks pretty good, even if all the ornaments are up high on the tree just above the reach of your average 18 month old..lol

Also I have been putting off getting our Christmas pictures taken. Yep I know not to do that next year. Our photo session stinked. I'm not one to complain about a place, but I was very unhappy with the way we were treated and the quality of the pictures we got. But that being said we did get them done this week and well were are my Christmas cards at, in the mail??? Nope they are sitting here in front of me on the computer starring at me...

In other news the kids are getting excited for Christmas. They have plays at school this week and both have Christmas parties on Friday.. Its wild to think Christmas is just two weeks away today! I'm proud to say I am done with my shopping, well except for some "stocking stuffers".. I had alittle set-back this week finishing my shopping when for two days I was without shower. Yep its always this time of year when something needs to be fixed. This year our hot water heater decided to die on us (TWICE, thats 2 water heaters in 2 weeks). Oh and since it was over 10 years old and the previous owners did most of the "work" on the house themselves, we couldn't just simply put in a new water heater, no.. Instead Joe had to run new plumbing in the garage to fit the new water heaters. You know they are alot taller these days, and pricey.. But hey we have hot water now :)...

So now I'm off to get myself in gear and finish these cards. Hope you all are moving faster than me!

Happy Turkey Day, but the rest....

2010-12-01T19:40:00.000-08:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Thanksgiving. We had well, a very interesting one to say the least...

So we packed up and headed to the airport Wednesday morning. The airport website and our ticket website both urged families to get to the airport no later than 2 to 2.5 hours before you scheduled flight. So we arrived around 9:30am for our 12pm flight! We got our tickets, took all of 5 minutes, got to security and oh my was it EMPTY. Took us a total of 6 minutes to get through.. REALLY?!? So now what for the next 2 hours..lol So we grabbed a snack and headed to our gate to wait it out!

So after about 15 minutes at the gate Emily and I headed to the potty. As I walked past the departing flights screen I see a delayed next to our flight. Infact it was the ONLY delayed flight in the whole airport! SO plane number 1 ended up leaving 2 hours late. Awesome! But hey we finally made it on the plane! Kids had a blast on their first flight!

My co-pilot Justin

So we arrive in Newark, NJ or as Nick kept saying "were in New York".. We head to our gate only to find that plane number 2 was 2 hours late now.. Fun times!!

But we made it to Virginia and Finally got to see everyone! Including New baby Aliyah.. OMGosh I love her so much!

So we visit with the family and then head to bed for a LONG night sleep.. Oh wait we didn't sleep. At 1am poor Emily wakes up throwing up and sicker than a puppy! It last until about 5am but finally we all got some sleep! The next day she was fine. But oh how I wish I would have known what was coming!!

Thanksgiving was AWESOME. We had tons of great food and had a blast with Joes mom and family. Here are some pictures from Thanksgiving Day...

So we headed to bed and had a great night sleep. All the "girls" woke up Friday morning to do some Black Friday Shopping. We had a blast!! After shopping we met up with the guys and Joe, his mom, me, and the kiddos headed off to lunch and Yankee Candle! After we got back I laid down with Emily and took a nap. I woke up feeling not so good. The next few hours were a blur, but I became sicker than I had been in a long time. And about an hour after I fell ill poor Justin starting getting sick and it was just as bad as me. Both he and I had a hard night. So when it came time at 5am to get up and get ready fo the airport to say the least we were bad off..

So we get to the airport, Im barely standing at this point. They grab some breakfast and we catch our first flight. We arrive in Atlanta and get on our connecting flight. At this point Justin is in worse shape than me. We get on plane number 2 for the day and as soon as its boarded they announce we have to de-board for maitinence issue. We get off and over the next 4 hours it is delayed time after time. At this point Emily has had enough of the airport, Nick is bored out of his mind. Joe is dealing with them because Justin and I are barely able to move. We actually passed out in the floor (b/c all the seats were taken)..

Joe took this pic b/c he said we looked like hamsters. Justin and I were balled up and he was smooshed against the metal pole like two hamsters in a cage..(can you even see Justin)...lol Makes me laugh now ;)

So after 4 hours they end up cancelling our flight. By the time we get to the ticket counter they tell us there are no more flights directly to Nashville from Atlanta. So they put us on a plane to Memphis and we are to fly there and connect to another flight to Nashville (stupid).. So we get on plane number 2 or I guess 3 of the day and fly to Memphis. We arrive in Memphis and Joe looks at me and says he feels like hes gonna be sick.. So I send him to the potty and I take kids and tickets to the gate and check in. As I am standing there the time goes from plane leaves at 7pm to plane leaves at 10:45pm.. WHAT we were supose to frickin be home at 1pm, now we MIGHT get home at midnight.. I litterally just start bawling. After calming me down, and Emily (no nap and extremely fussy Emily), a Delta airlines manager comes over and after talking with her for about 45 minutes we decide since 99% chance this plane is going to be cancelled (and it was) they put us up in a hotel room and gave us some meal vouchers. So at 8:30 we arrive at the hotel, grab some food and PASS OUT! Arrive BACK at the airport at 7am, get on a plane at 8:30 and we make it home around 10!

To say the least it was an adventure. We had a blast in Virginia, but I think we have had our fill of flying for a few months..lol

Happy Turkey Day

Up Do

2010-11-23T10:20:00.000-08:00

Its funny how a simple ponytail can make one look so much older.. Were has my bald baby gone...lol

His First Hunting Trip (Kinda)

2010-11-22T08:25:00.000-08:00

So Justin, Daddy, Papaw, & Uncle Donnie took out to the woods this weekend. This was Justins first "Deer" hunting trip.. The kid was so excited.. Now you have to realize I come from a very "outdoorsy" family. I started hunting with my dad when I was 6 years old! I love it, being out in nature, sitting alone in the woods and having that time to "yourself".. I love it that my kiddos will get to experience the outdoors and gain the love and respect for nature.. I contribute alot of my childhood and being out around animals in the wild that led me to the field of veterinary medicine!

Now back to Justin, all week last week he would remind me of how many days they had before it was hunting time..haha They all headed out Friday night, Justin literally bouncing off the walls with excitement.. Joe told me when they got to the farm (an mid 1800's farm house on our property) Justin told him the house looked "old"..lol You have no idea son! Then Justin went inside and discovered there was no TV.. He then asked "what are we going to do now".. Papaw and daddy told him "we can do puzzles, play darts, or just talk".. So on they went to have the best dart competition (another first for Justin) ever..

I'm glad Justin got away from all the video games, TVs, ipods, etc.. Back to the "good Ol Days" so to speak.. Over the next 2 days they sat in the woods, laughed at the goofy squirrels, saw an armadillo the size of a large dog, and just had fun! Though they did not actually snag a deer, Justin had a blast and I think hes hooked! When he got home though he was plum wore out. Gave me a kiss, took his shower, and crashed into his covers!!

My little hunter :) - These were taken during Dove Season in August 2009, Mommy forgot to charge the camera before sending it with daddy this weekend so no pictures :(

Little Grey Hairs

2010-11-16T07:16:00.000-08:00

The other night Dixie was sprawled out in the floor and I looked over and couldn't help but notice how her face was getting so white. She turned 6 years old this year, and for Boxers that's entering her senior years. Shes such a sweet girl and hasn't yet begun to slow down. But it is hard to believe our "first" sweet girl is getting so big and so many little grey hairs!!!

Model Baby

2010-11-11T14:29:00.000-08:00

So today Emily, me, & Aunt Jennifer hit the mall to do some shopping for the kiddos. While walking around JCPennys we were approached by a sweet lady from the portrait department! She asked if we would be interested letting Emily be a kind of a "test model" for some new backgrounds they just got in. Kinda like they wanted to practice with a real kiddo. She said they would give us some free pictures & eMail us all of the photos they shot! Of course, hello FREE Pictures you know I was all for that!

So here are some of the pics from Emilys day as a Model Baby..lol

Warm Fall Soup

2010-11-06T09:43:00.000-07:00

I have been looking for a good warm "fallish" soup or something other than the regular ol chili or beef stew! I have tried out a few, and found a few I like! One that everyone in the house "surprisingly" liked was this Butternut and Ham Bisque with pesto bread!!

Saute 1 medium sweet onion in alittle butter for a few minutes!
- Add 5 Cups ButterNut Squash & 1 Cup Potatoes
(chopped & Peeled)
- Add 5 Cups Chicken Broth
- Add 1tsp Salt

Cover & Boil for 20 minutes on med/high heat!

Place in blender or food processor and blend Then place back into pot

- Add 1/2 Cup Heavy Cream

- Add 1 1/2 Cup Diced Cooked Ham

- Add Pepper to taste

Warm Through & Serve with Toasted Bread w/ Pesto & Feta Cheese!

Last Home Run....

2010-11-02T07:32:00.000-07:00

Of 2010 that it!!! Fall Baseball & Joes softball season is done! We get a break from baseball & softball till Spring 2011, WOW it seems weird to say "2011"..lol This year has gone by soooo fast! But don't worry you know this family will not be taking it easy, nope! Both boys wanted to play basketball this winter, so we got them signed up! Practice doesn't start till December, so I get November to rest I guess..lol

Fall Ball was sooo much fun this year. Justin moved up from the "little" kid park to the "big boys" park. He went from Coach Pitch to Kid Pitch baseball.. It was a big change, but a smooth one. I mean he had an awesome coach, his daddy!! Joe was asked to head coach a team this season, and to his surprise he loved it more than he expected too! I think he had more fun than the kids! I had several parents come up to me at the end of our last game asking if he would be coaching next season because they loved the way he coached and how good he was with the kiddos. His teaching method is so different than other coaches I have seen out there. Hes so much more passionate and actually teaches the kids instead of yelling at them like other coaches I witnessed out there!

After the season was over I asked him what was his favorite part and to my surprise he said "coaching Jordan (a kid that had never played baseball before, and by the time the season ended he was one of our best players) and he also said one of the best moments was when he learned his cousin (Chase) wanted to play again next season. Chase had a bad season with a crappy coach a few years back and didn't want to return to baseball. Joe and his mom convinced him to give it a try again this season with "uncle" Joe coaching, and he loved it!!! So Can I say anymore about this great team, coach, SEASON!!!

Justin & Chase

See you in he Spring!!

A Very Happy Halloween

2010-11-01T07:37:00.000-07:00

This year Halloween fell on a Sunday, but the fun lasted all weekend!! We started off at a friend/neighbors house for a Halloween party on Friday Night. Nick and his best friends Taylor and Miss EmmaLynn were a sight to see. Thesse 3 have been best buddies for almost 3 years now! EmmaLynn lives the next street over so the party was not far from home! We had a blast! The kiddos played Halloween themed carnival games, did a cupcake walk, bonfire, haunted house, pizza, smores & much more!

Saturday was filled with our last baseball game (We WON), team party, then off to basketball sign-ups, dinner, and then home to carve PUMPKINS!! Nick really got into carving this year. The past few years he really hasn't cared to get in there and get his hands dirty, but not this year!. Emily on the other hand preffered to watch. We tried to let her scoop out her pumpkin, but she would not have it!!

Then of course Sunday night was all about TRICK-or-TREATING!! Jennifer, Ryan, and Chase came over to go with us. We roasted hotdogs before we went and smores after we got back! It was a blast!!

Cast No More

2010-10-28T09:18:00.000-07:00

Today Emily had her third follow-up appointment with the orthopedic doctor, and I am happy to say he released her! No more sling, no more xrays, no more broken arm! He said the xray still showed the "line" were the break was, but that it would disappear over the next couple weeks and Emily should never have any problems out of it again! We feel so lucky!! He also said with this kind of break that he has never seen it ever "rebreak" in the same spot! AWESOME!

Emily is so happy to have the sling GONE! Mommy is still nervous everytime she falls over or tries to grab ahold of something and pull herself up, but I think its more me just being a mommy!!

So for your viewing pleasure, for the first time in 7 weeks Miss Emily WITHOUT her sling! :)

Rainy Day

2010-10-26T21:02:00.000-07:00

Today was a wet one here in TN. We had high winds, heavy rains, and even a few tornados! The boys came home telling about their adventures hanging out in the hallway at school as the Tornado warnings came and went. Thank goodness we dodge the bullet and middle TN had no major damage from the storms! But I must say TN tornados make me even more nervous these days!

And the skies got dark... This is what it looked like all day in Middle TN!!

Game Day

2010-10-25T21:27:00.000-07:00

Sunday Joe & I were invited to a Tennessee Titans game by my mom & her friend Greg! We had so much fun!

Mom gave Joe & I her field passes so we could experience going out on "the green".. It was wild to be so close to the players & see all the people you normally watch on TV! Some of my favorite players came right up to us!

After walking around the field we headed back up to meet-up with mom & greg! So Joe & Greg then ventured to their seats! Front row right at the goal post - AWESOME! Mom & I had been invited up to a reps club suite & OMGosh was it awesome. Great view, awesome (free) food & drinks! I have never had so much fun at a football game! Now I can't wait to go back! And the best part is the Titans WON!!

A Double Tooth

2010-10-21T11:33:00.000-07:00

So Emily has been hard core trying to cut some teeth. She has 2 eye teeth coming in and a couple molars.. Well we got to looking the other day and she has a double tooth coming in as an eye tooth! Its basically were two teeth fused together at the base of the tooth early on.. It looks wild, but not really noticable! Ive never seen one before, but apparently they are common. Since its a baby tooth I don't think they will do much for it, but its still WILD!

Over A Month...

2010-10-20T07:59:00.000-07:00

Can I just start by saying this month (almost 2) has been hectic beyond belief! I have fell behind in so many things from blogging, to sewing, to couponing! But I am starting to have time to get back into it all once again! So whats been going on over the past month(s)...

Well Emily decided to do this...

We were at a Friday night baseball game & I was loading up the stroller. I put Emily in & usually I snap her in, but she was playing with the buckle so I figured hey she would snap it shut as she loves to do. So I put her in & turned around & began loading our chairs under the stroller. The next thing I know she was on the ground! I picked her up (with most fear for if she hit her head).. I mean it was a foot & a half fall and I never would have thought her arm. Over the next 30 minutes she refused to use her left arm & just kinda whimpered! So fast forward 3 doctors visits & 14 xrays & she is happily healing a broken humerus arm bone!

The Boys, have well been "the Boys".. Both have been fighting a cold. Nicks ended him up in the ER were they told me he was fine. So after 2 pedi appointments & and ER visit I took it upon myself to get him in with Justins asthma doctor. Nick had been through 3 weeks of breathing treatments, two rounds of steroids, and rescue inhaler.. And the asthma doctor took 1 xray of his face and BOOM answers. Nick had a sinus infection (a bad one) one that has required 4 weeks of antibiotics!! But he is doing so much better!! Its amazing how much you can find out when your at a doctor that cares & doesn't just blow you off!

Justin oh we can't leave him out..haha He has also had a cold, but they started him back on his asthma meds & he is doing so much better! Baseball has been a blast! Justin also got to experience his first root canal (YES I said root canal) on Monday! He was such a trooper & had a blast with the laughing gas. Poor kid has had so many teeth issues thanks to all the steroids he received as a baby & really he still has to take them today with his Adair! We have a wonderful dentist that just loves our family & Justin just loves him.

So that's about it for our update! I promise to keep the blog up to date for everyone!! HUGS Suzie

Hello There!

2010-08-31T08:30:00.000-07:00

Wow I have been really lazy with my blog post lately! But to my defence its been crazy busy around here! Since school and fall baseball started Ive been busy, busy! So I guess its time for an update!

The boys are doing great. They both love school and have been having a blast! Justin started fall baseball and Nick is right out there helping. Joe was asked to step up and be a head coach, so this year hes moved up not just to a head coach, but we are no longer in coach pitch, but now in kid pitch baseball.. This makes me super nervous, but its been great so far. Joe loves it, Justin loves it, and so far nobodys gotten hit! (knock on wood)...

Emily is doing well. Shes had a sinus cold for about a week, which stinks! Shes lovin having mommy all to herself during the day! We play, go out, and just have "girl" time.. I think mommy loves it more :)

Joes doing great. With coaching the 9/10 year olds he is still playing fall softball himself with two different teams, not to mention the tournament team too! But he loves it and I do too so we can't complain!

As for me Ive gotten back into my sewing! I opened at Etsy shop (HERE) and have started selling some of my creations! Right now I make rag quilts & burp cloths, but am starting to add hair bow holders, baby quilts, and of course my dog beds Ive made for years! I love sewing and hopefully I can sell some of these items to keep going:)..

So thats about it! I promise to try and keep everyone posted better! HUGS

So Excited

2010-08-11T05:54:00.000-07:00

This morning Nick jumps up, more excited then I had seen him in awhile.. What was today all about? Well Mr Nicholas started "Big Boy" school today. Atleast thats what he has been calling it since we walked Justin through the Elementary School Doors 4 years ago! Nick started Kindergarten today.. Walking down that halway that I had come to know as a second home was alittle strange this time. Wow was it this time already. Was my last baby boy starting his journey through school. Is it true, is he really old enough to do this? The answer a simple YES!!

Nick proudly walked straight to his classroom. His teacher was standing at the door with a huge smile and it all seemed to fit. We found his desk and put his things away. He talked to his teacher as he quietly gripped my pants leg. She offered some block to play with on the magic carpet and poof that was it, he was off!!. After talking to his teacher for a moment she ventured to greet another smiley 5 year old at the door. Its then I noticed I had become the hovering parent. I silently told myself to go and walked over to Nick. He looks up and smiles, says "I love you" and starts playing again. I kiss his forehead tell him "I love him" and that I would see him later and made myself walk out.. And can you believe no tears on my behalf, welll maybe a couple :)

YAY Im a Kindergartener!

Growing too fast....

Off he goes...

Mr. 3rd Grade

2010-08-09T05:12:00.000-07:00

I can't believe my baby boy is in third grade already.. It seems like yesterday I was dropping him off at preschool and now this morning I watched him off to third grade. Hes so excited and I think snagged a great teacher this year. For today atleast Justin has school all to himself as Mr. Nick will join him in "big boy" school starting later this week!

Here is MR. 3rd Grade!

Accessories Kind of Girl

2010-08-06T13:19:00.000-07:00

Emily has become quit a little accessories fan.. But she is still too young to really have "jewelry" so here recently she has begun to improvise..lol I snapped some pictures of her and the many "accessories" she has..lol - And don't worry she only has these when right in front of me and she doesn't wear them when we are not right there with her!!

Here she is with her brothers medal (her favorite)

The Wii Remote

The Snake

(notice the animal print slippers... love it)

And this was her yesterday with about 5 of my hair-ties

(guess they make good bracelets when you have no hair)

Those Times You Look Back

2010-08-04T20:33:00.000-07:00

I have times like Im sure alot of people do were you bust out the photo books and baby books or even a home video or two and you look back. Sometimes you laugh and alot of times I cry. Good tears remembering moments in my life that changed me!!!

Like Ill never forget that first day sitting in my cousin Brandons house when Joe walks through the door, that split second my eyes shifted torward him and little did I know (except that he was HOTT) that he was my forever!!

Ill never forget that moment laying on the couch leaned back against Joes chest rubbing my belly as Justin kicked and kicked. How we both were amazed by something so amazing!!

Ill never forget walking through the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit doors and looking over into the bassinet with a baby so tiny, so fragile, with all these tubes and wires on him and thinking he was the most beautiful thing I had ever seen and how I would never let a moment go by and not let him know how special he is!!

Ill never forget the moment the ER doctor came in and told Joe and I they were sorry but we were loosing the pregnancy and then 7 months later the cry I heard as they laid our daughter on my chest and said shes PERFECT!!

I heard a song recently (The Breath You Take - by George Strait) and to me the lyrics say it all!!

"Life’s not the breaths you take
The breathing in and out
That gets you through the day
Ain’t what it’s all about
Ya just might miss the point
If ya don’t slow down the pace
Life’s not the breaths you take
But the moments that take your breath away"

Vacation Fun

2010-07-31T18:59:00.000-07:00

We headed out last Friday morning for Virginia to visit Joes mom & family. The trip up was perfect! We left out at 2am and traveled half way on our 10 hour trip before anyone woke up. After stopping to eat and potty we headed back out. The kids were happy and so was I... We arrived in Williamsburg around lunch and stopped for a bite to eat. Then we checked into the hotel and started unpacking. We spent the evening with Nanny (aka Carol) and went to dinner and walked around Colonial Williamsburg!

The Boys...

Some Brotherly Love infront of the Armory...

Old Church - So neat!

On Day two we headed to Water Country and the kids had a blast! His was the first time Nick really ever got to experience a water slide. His first ride I wish I could have captured his face. Hes so tiny he was slipping through the tubes, but he didn't care he had a blast! Emily LOVED it too. The kiddo pool was just her size and she loved floating the Lazy River with mommy!

That afternoon (after a quick nap) we headed over to Busch Gardens (were Nanny works).. We visited Busch 3 times during our visit and still did not see it all!

And seaking of roller coasters, Justin was finally tall enough to take in some of the BIG coasters. The first one he rode was called "Loch Ness" and he LOVED it.. The flips and curves and hills, he rode it several times! Here is a picture of it! (yellow)

While in Virginia we also visited VIrginia Beach and also a local beach called Buckroe. All three kids loved the beach. This was Emilys first trip and she loved it, sand and all! I forgot the camera on our trips to Virginia Beach, but here are some from Buckroe. It was on Chesepeke Bay so the waves were small!!

On Thursday after lunch we headed back home. Our 10 ride did not go as smooth and actually took us almost 13 hours to get home. Very fussy baby and driving during the day, not fun! Next time we will stick to night rides!!! But we had a wonderful vacation and now its time to get ready for school - starts in a week..eeek :)

A Little Pocket Change...

2010-07-21T08:27:00.000-07:00

We are heading out in a few days for Virginia. We are spending a week with Joes mom & family in Williamsburg & Virginia Beach!! We have been planning and saving since January for the trip! I wanted a way to get the boys involved in saving, so one they would maybe understand it cost money to go on vacation and two make them feel they helped..

So we set out a mason jar & our goal was to fill-it to the top! We told the boys every dime, nickel, etc they found on the floor or in a seat cushion , anywere to put it in the vacation jar. They LOVED the idea and have been crazy putting all their loose change in it.. Mommy and daddy have made contributions too and I even put all the "bills" I found in the dryer over the past few months in too!!

So lastnight we decided to open the jar since we had reached the top.

The boys were so excited and proud.. We kept telling them they did a great job saving and how much this would help out on the trip!!

So after sitting and rolling up the change we are taking it to the bank today. Im letting the boys carry it in and give it to the clerk and let them tell her how they earned and saved money and what an awesome job they did!!

You Melt My Heart...

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

Today Joe and I celebrate our 8 year wedding anniversary.. Time has went by so fast, it seems like just yesterday I was trying on dresses and getting ready for that big day!! This has been an amazing 8 years and Im so excited to see what the rest of our future holds for us. Joe you truly are my best friend.. I love you more and more each day!!

A look back to 8 years ago...

This year Joe and I celebrated like we have every year.. We went to dinner at the Melting Pot (the place were Joe proposed), we have went there every anniversary! Its a great tradition we hope to continue every year! YUMM

A Weekend by the Fire

2010-07-16T11:00:00.000-07:00

So yea it was in the mid 80's but we still had a campfire...lol We headed out last weekend for our first of the year camping trip. It was so much fun and there will most definatly be more, but only when it cools off alittle!!

We pulled in around 3pm Friday and set up.. After getting camp ready the boys, Joe, and my dad headed down the the water and started fishing!!

While they did alittle fishing the girls started dinner! Emily happily played in her pack-n-play while we cooked. I love cooking over an open campfire, and you just can't beat the food and how it taste..

After dinner we all went down to do alittle more fishing were the boys caught about 2 dozen fish before the sun set for the night!!

Early the next morning we got up and did alittle more fishing and drank our coffee and ate breakfast! Then off on the boat we went, the kids loved it. It was Emilys first boat ride and she had a blast and even did alittle driving.. The day was filled with boating and fishing, and FUN!!

After a day of boating we came bak to the campsite and played, ate dinner and had some smores by the campfire! Sunday we woke up, fished and played then packed up for the trip home! We had a blast and can't wait to go back!!

Wordless Wednesday

2010-07-07T17:13:00.000-07:00

I figured this would be fun! Every Wednesday I will post a couple pictures that well.... need no words! So here we go...

Its hard to get good pics!!

2010-06-28T11:38:00.000-07:00

It was so easy when Emily was unable to move around during my im-prompt to photo sessions. Now its so hard to get a good smiley picture of all three kiddos together!! Well this monrning I was feeling brave enough to try. How did it go you may ask????

Picture #1

Picture #2

Picture #4 (Notice Nicks kinda over it now)

Picture #8

Honestly I love them all!! Every picture is perfect!

New Ouchies... I mean teeth!

2010-06-26T09:41:00.000-07:00

Poor Emily has been cutting 6 new teeth the past few weeks. This week has been the hardest on her. Shes been super fussy, clingy, and just all out miserable! I feel so bad for her! Well finally one ouchie (I mean toofie) came through, only 5 more to go..

See my new teeth!

Here are a few more smiles :)

A Little Slip - A Little Slide

2010-06-22T19:27:00.000-07:00

While at Walmart the other day the boys found a Slip-N-Slide on clearance for $5, so of course they talked mom into getting it! Todays heat index hit somewere around 105 here in TN so we busted out the slide! The boys had a blast, even though Nick hurt himself the first "slide", instead it was more like a flop smack!! But he quickly got the hange of it!

About 10 minutes after we broke out the slide Emily woke up from her nap. I really didn't think she would care for the water in her face, but yet again she proved me wrong. She was slideing and trying to drink the water before I could even get her swimsuit on!!

So of course here are some pictures of our slipping and some sliding!!

Nicks getting the hang of it

Justins Turn

Alittle cold at first

Needed alittle drink

Its getting HOTT in the Boro

2010-06-13T15:40:00.000-07:00

WOW its been HOTT the past week here in the boro!! I feel bad for all the TN visitors here for the CMA festival and Bonoroo, our heat index is out the roof! So what do I decide to do on this Super Hott weekend. Well we had a yard sale and sweated out booties off! The kids had a blast helping me get ready and making signs, but when it come to time to sit in the heat they sided with daddy and spent the day in the pool. But the yard sale went good and we got rid of some of the baby stuff (kinda bittersweet).. I can't believe we will not be needing all that stuff ever again :(..

Here are my helpers hard at work making signs!!

Look at the onions Justin pulled from the garden. I need to take a picture of all our tomatoes. All 27 plants are FULL of tomatos - YUMM

Ouch.....

2010-06-10T09:01:00.000-07:00

Things have been crazy around the Lannom household! Baseball season is coming to an end. Nick has his last tournament game tonight, Justin had his lastnight! The boys had a blast this season, but mommy and daddy are ready for a little break.

But oh that doesn't mean bye bye to the ballpark. Joe still plays league ball on Tuesday nights and tournaments on the weekends. Speaking a softball, poor Joe got a crappy shot to the mouth by a bad bounce on a ball Tuesday night. Beside the pain his poor teeth are pushed back. Poor guy!

notice the teeth - ouch!

On a more fun note we have gotten in the swing of summer with of course swimming! Turns out I do have 3 little fish as kiddos, lol! They love it.

Also in the summer tradition we are having our yard sale this weekend. Its kinda bittersweet as I am selling all of the baby stuff. Well thats about it!

Baseball + Summer = FUN

2010-05-24T12:53:00.000-07:00

WOW Its getting alittle warm in these parts the past few days. Middle TN is in the 90's and its such a body shock. A week ago I was wearing jeans and hoodies! Seems like alot of our activities are coming to an end, signaling SUMMER! The boys each have about 2 games left then end of season tournaments! They are having a blast and I love going out and watching them! Soon Spring ball will be over and SUMMER fun will begin! Also both boys are wrapping up school. Nick had his last day ever at pre-school Friday (it was so bittersweet) and Justin attends his last day of 2nd grade this coming Friday!! Then we will officially have a Kindergardener and a 3rd grader in the house - YeeHaw! ;)

Here are some pictures from this years baseball season!! Enjoy!

Happy Birthday Party

2010-05-17T11:11:00.000-07:00

Well Sunday we finally got to have Miss Emilys First Birthday Party, after her first one was litterally flooded out! She had a blast and got lots of cute clothes (I love all the girly clothing)..lol She of course loved her cake and dug right in. Thank you to all our friends and family that made it out! We love yall!

Here are some pictures of the Birthday Girl!

Ready For Her Gifts

Reading Her Cards

She LOVED Minnie

Yummy CAKE

Im done - Some Milk to Wash it All Down

Were Has The Time Gone???

2010-05-12T09:45:00.000-07:00

Lastnight Nick graduated pre-school. Of course mommy was a bag of tears, but I am so proud of my litle guy. WOW I guess hes not so little anymore!! He did a great job and smiled and sang and was a perfect little man! Its wild to see how much he has changed over these past 2 years at pre-school. ITs so bitter sweet and IM so excited for him to go to school, yet it breaks my heart as this part of his childhood is soon to be behind him! Here are some pictures of his big day!

Now that he has his pre-school graduation behind him, we did the next thing on his list and got him registered for Kindergarden this morning. He LOVED it and is so ready to go to "Big Boy" school with his brother!! Time - PLEASE SLOW DOWN!

Happy Birthday Sweet Baby Girl

2010-05-06T07:30:00.000-07:00

To my Emily Grace - First off I love you so much! Your daddy, me, and brothers could not imagine life without you. You are our saving grace! This year has flown by, and I have been amazed as I watch you grow. I will never forget this day on May 6, 2009.. I love you sweet baby girl!
~Mommy~

A Year Ago Tonight - 38 Weeks

2010-05-05T18:28:00.000-07:00

I typed this post a year ago tonight! Little did I know I was in active labor and would be at the hospital by Midnight and that Miss Emily would be here around dawn!! Its bittersweet to look back and read it now....

38 Weeks (I took this today)

So just wanted to update everyone on how things are going. Its Tuesday May 5th - HAPPY CINCO DE-MAYO!!! I had my 38 week appointment today and it went great! I went in at 9:30am and talked to my doctor about all my fears and things that had been going on cramping wise and stuff! She checked me and I was a "loose" 3cm and still around 60-70% effaced. She then proceeded to sweep my membranes, basically she slightly seperated that amniotic sac from the cervix, lovely sounding huh!

Then she sent me upstairs for a bio-physical ultrasound to check up on Miss Emily! Little chubby cheeks looked so cute on screen. She passed her ultrasound and was said to be weighing in at around 7.3ish pounds!

Then Nick and I came home and decided to walk around the block. By the time I got home I has hungry and hurting. I started having major cramps, but they soon slacked off. So now we sit and wait. We just got home from dinner, we went and ate Casa Fiesta with my mom. Ive been having some slight contractions. They are regular (about every 5-8 minutes) but they are not lasting long! I guess we will see what the night holds!

A Party.... Not yet!

2010-05-05T14:34:00.000-07:00

We were scheduled to have Miss emilys 1st Birthday Party this past Sunday. Sadly Middle Tn suffered a disasterous blow, and we canceled Emilys party.. A party seems so un-important when you look at what everyone in Middle TN has suffered!

So after having everything ready to go and having to cancel the party they boys loved that we had soooo much fruit to snack on the past few days!! But we plan to reschedule Miss Ems party, and in all honesty its working out better having it later!! But not to let the cake go to waste that we had for her we went ahead and let her have it lastnight! and well.... she loved it!

OK Im ready...

Are you sure I get ALL of this????

Mmm this is pretty good...

Ok this is REALLY good

Wait this is soo much FUN

OK Im full!

Middle TN Flood of 2010

2010-05-03T10:44:00.000-07:00

This has been a very sad and scary past couple of days here in Middle TN.. We are going through the worst flood parts of this state have EVER seen.. Thankfully we are safe. We do not have any water damage, but some of our neighbors are family are no so lucky! Finally today they opened the road out of our subdivision, but Nashville and other parts of Murfreesboro & Smyrna are still under water!! My uncle and Aunts houses both had their basements flood.. We are just all so thankful we are alive and safe!! Please pray for other families in the area though. So much devestation and life has been lost!!!

Also I had to cancel miss Emilys first Birthday party. Im not gonna lie, it broke my heart, but we are determined to make it up.. She will have her special day (even if she doesn't remember it).. :)

Here are some pictures I took..

The end of our street Sunday

The corner of the street I live off of & the street behind us!

A neighbors house behind us

A Song I LOVE

2010-04-22T11:56:00.000-07:00

I have often (VERY often) wanted to visit my childhood home in Nashville. Ive gone out of my way to just drive past it before and wish just one more time I could go in.. Its funny how you miss the "little" things.. I wonder if one day, when the kids are old and grown and Joe and I have moved to our house on the beach to grow old (nice dream huh :)) will they want to come back to this house. The one they will grow up in..

This song moves me to tears everytime I hear it.. So true!

*Hit the Pause button on the right black box music player before starting the video ->

Update on Nick

2010-04-21T15:01:00.000-07:00

So we headed to the Orthopedic doctor yesterday, and let me say that was the biggest waste!! I swear that man was in our room for all of 5-6 minutes and half the time he talked to Emily about her needing a wig for her bald head.. He didn't listen to half my story of all that's going on and he barely even touched Nicks leg! So I left there totally pissed off (excuse my language, but its how I felt).. I literally felt like he thought I was crazy or making it up! So I came home feeling totally defeated. But after talking to Joe and my family they urged me not to give up. They had seen the limp and the pain, so it was not just "a mom being over worried"..

So this morning I got up and called his pediatrician, figuring I would get another call back a day or two later! At 11 o'clock my phone rings. I tell Dr Phillips all that's went on with the ortho and how I felt like nobody was taking me serious. She told me she wanted to see Nick at 3 THAT afternoon.. It is rare to EVER get in with her same day, I mean even when you sick SICK!!!

So I take him in and she does her evaluation.. She spend almost an hour in the room talking and listening and feeling Nick and making him do exercises to see the pain. She showed me with her hand were she felt his tendon was noticeably tighter on his right knee than his left! So all in all Im very satisfied! Finally someone is listening!

So right now we are doing bloodwork. She wants to rule out all the "bads" aka caner, leukemia, etc... She said she just needs to do that to ease her mind and mine! Also the bloodwork will show if Nick has inflammation in his knee/leg!! If the bloodwork comes back clear then she wants to send him for a Physical Therapy Eval.. That way we can asses if it is the tendon just tight or short and see if he needs PT or maybe some at home stretching exercises!!

So at the moment we wait.. I will post in a few days or so when I know the outcome of the bloodwork!!

Can't Sleep

2010-04-19T20:46:00.000-07:00

I need to go to bed, but instead Im here..lol I have tons on my mind and I just don't think I could shut it down to go to sleep right now!! Im so ready for Nicks ortho appointment tomarrow and ready for some answers.. I hope they take me seriously (unlike the pedi) and don't just brush me and Nick off!! He was complaining tonight of his leg hurting again, but instead of his knee he pointed to his foot/ankle.. UGH I have no clue, it seems that whole right leg & foot has issues.. Atleast now I don't feel like an over reacting mom. I mean I had an old t-ball coach and 2 different parents approach me at the baseball park noticing his limp and checking on him.. I swear that Pedi had made me feel like I was over reacting and that it was just growing pains, but now I know its not.. Now I know he really has something wrong, and others see it too!!

With all that add in a crazy weekend, a snotty nose 11 month old, and a rude eMail I got Im just a bag of crazyness tonight..lol But I guess I better get off and try to get some sleep.. I will post tomarrow about Nicksters appointment!!

Oh & this is Spaz (I feel every post needs atleast one picture).. He is my sisters chihuahua that stayed with us for 2 weeks.. Such a cutie (weighs less than 2 lbs)!!!

Can I cry yet???

2010-04-13T10:51:00.000-07:00

Well its too late, all I have done the past couple days is cry! Bittersweet tears as I mailed out Emilys first birthday invites over the weekend. Then tears as I write about her first tooth in her baby book and glance back at the pictures of her so brand new.. This time last year I was wanting time to speed up, for her to get here so i could hold her and gaze at her... Now I sit here begging time to just slow down! My baby girl is turning a year old. Its so hard not to be sad when I look back and think she is my baby, my last little munchkin and when she turns one I can't help but feel she will no longer be my baby and that part of my life will be over with forever.

Don't get me wrong I am so excited and happy to see what the future holds and to watch my three amazing kids grow into amazing big kids!! Its just times like these I look at them and drift back to days of rocking them in my arms all swaddled up in blankets!!

Justin

Nick

Emily

Nicks got an ouchie!

2010-04-12T20:41:00.000-07:00

For the past few months (about 6 or so) Nick has had randoms times were he complains of his leg hurting.. Its odd times like first thing in the morning or during a movie.. He really never would tell us were it hurt. One day he would point to his calves the other his foot the other his thigh! I mentioned it to his pediatrician several times and they never really seemed to be worried. I was told its probably growing pain or maybe a pulled muscle. I was told if it got worse they would investigate more.

Well about a month ago Nick had a bad upper respiratory infection and was sent for chest xRays to check for pneumonia. I asked his doctor since we would be at the hospital getting the xrays if we could go ahead and shoot his legs to. I think she kinda did it to humor me, but he was starting to complain again.. I really think they believed it was from the flu, you know aches and pains! When the nurse called back to tell me the chest pics were good I asked about the leg xrays and I get "oh those were fine too".. grrrr

OK skip ahead to this past Saturday, Nick had his baseball game..He gets up to hit the ball and then takes off to first base. Immediately I notice hes not bending his knee.. He is kind of wobling/running bow legged with this right leg straight.. He tells Joe his leg if "sore".. Following the game he complains its sore, yet doesn't act overly like something is wrong. But I start watching closely and thinking back about the past weeks and I start piecing things together..

Take for instants at practice Nick would be told by the coaches to hustle to the base or to the out field and Nick would walk, they would get louder "run Nick" and he would kinda half skip, NEVER would he run.. I took it as Nick being honory.. Then I think he really hasn't played on the trampoline the past few weeks, this is his normally fav thing to do outside (beside dig in the dirt).. Tons of things kept popping up and time I had just brushed it off.. So I make the plan to call his pediatrician Monday morning..

So we wake up today and the first thing out of his mouth is "mommy my feet have sparkles in them today".. Nick has been complaining his feet are tingly.. Joe and I would tell him "oh buddy your foot just fell asleep".. BOOM it clicked again, Joe had joked the other day that he has never seen a person complain as much as Nick about their feet falling asleep.. Then and their I decided not to wait on the pediatrician to call me back, I got online and found a local pediatric orthopedic doctor..

Nick is scheduled to see him next Tuesday.. I so hope they figure it out.. It seems to be getting worse whatever it is and fast! Even tonight at his game he limped and wouldn't run full speed and did the bow legged run.. But you ask him and he says hes fine... UGH I will keep you all posted!

Spring is coming...

2010-04-09T10:36:00.000-07:00

The other day here in TN we almost hit 80 degrees, infact we broke the record high! Im so ready for Spring (minus the allergies) and warm weather! Baseball season has started and all 3 boys have had games! This Saturday the 10th is our "official" opening day with ceremony and good FOOD..lol

With the warm weather we have been taking advantage of the sun and heading outside! YAY

Hoppy Easter!!

2010-04-05T06:17:00.000-07:00

I hope everyone had a great Easter this year. This kids, Joe and I could not have asked for a better day! The morning started off good, Im still not sure at what time the kids really woke up. I know they came in to wake us around 9am and Nick already knew what all he had in his Easter bucket, not to mention he was wearing a shirt the Easter bunny brought him.. I told Joe he probally got up waaaay early and did his own "investigating".. Then waited for Justin to wake up..lol!~

Emily LOVEd her easter goodies and was all giggles! The boys on the other hand kinda woke up grouchy and decided to pick at each other all morning! Things got better when Papa showed up Easter morning to spend some time with us! He brought all kinds of fishing easter goodies!! After getting up and getting dressed we headed to the Smyrna airbase for the Lannom get together and the boys were able to run off some of that funk and were much happier! After grilling out and easting lots of yummy food we hunted eggs and then headed off to my moms "Mamaws" house for more Easter fun!

We had a blast watching the kids hunt eggs, have a water gun fight (did I mention the weather was PERFECT) and eat more good yummys! Finally around 6pm we packed up to head home, poor Emily was so tired from no nap! She went straight to bath and bed.. The boys watched a wuick hour of Toy Story before heading to bed! Daddy on the other hand got a burst of energy I guess and so we planted all the banana trees and stuff! So lets just say we both were out cold when we hit the pillow!

HERE are some pictures of our Easter Day!!

Some BIG Changes

2010-03-26T20:51:00.000-07:00

So I can NOT believe I just got done making Emilys First Birthday invitations. Just thinking about it brings tears to my eyes. Were has the time gone? How can my sweet girl be getting so close to turning one.. I can not believe the little beauty she is turning in to.. And this little girl has some big changes going on right now!

First since the day she was born she has slept right next to mommy. Litterally in my arms and I enjoy every minute! But she has become more of a wiggler and wants to stretch out and get comfy and 3 in our bed is just alittle too crowded. So Wed night we made our final co-sleeping night, and lastnight Emily took the big leap and slept all night in her own bed! With alittle fuss she went right to sleep and slept until 4am and got up for a quick snack and back to sleep till 9am!! And tonight I laid her down and not a peep out of her! WOW my baby girl is getting so big!

Also miss Emily has taken to food and cut way back on her nursing, so big change number two is in the works. We are slowly changing over to whole milk. Im still nursing, just not as much! And now she has her bottles of milk to snack on! This change is very bittersweet to me as nursing her has been a dream come true!

And oh what could change number three be??.. Well Em has begun to "cruise" the furniture in the house.. Only "steps" away from being mobile! You go girl! Mommy and daddy and brothers are so proud! We can't wait till you let go and take off on those feeties!

A Birthday Bowl...

2010-03-22T11:38:00.000-07:00

Sunday we celebrated Justins 8th Birthday with a bowling party - FUN!! We had a blast, thanks to everyone that got to come celebrate with us! As proud mommy of course I was taking TONS of Pictures, well until I got yelled at over the PA system because my camera flashes were I guess making some adult bowlers mad.. BOO! But I still got some great shots of a fabulous day!

Happy Birthday Sweet Baby Boy

2010-03-18T20:06:00.000-07:00

Today eight years ago I became a mommy for the first time! A look back to that day....

I had been sleeping that Monday morning, when at 10 o'clock in the morning something woke me up. My first thought was "oh man I just peed myself".. I got up to run to the bathroom when that unmistakable water breaking occurred. No second guessing it I grabbed the phone and a towel and ran to the bathroom! I called Joe, im sure my voice sounding in a panic heck im not sure what exactly I said but all I knew was he was in West Nashville and me at home about 30-45 minutes away (remember that part!).. So I tell him to leave and go to the hospital I would meet him there! I hang up and call my dad whom was at work about 10 minutes away.. I think I got "water broke" out and he hung up! Within it seemed 5 minutes he came in the door! I then proceeded to shove about 5 towels in my pajama pants (I know, right) and out the door we went!

OK so that "30-45" minute drive took us 10 - no joke.. My dad can get from point A to point B fast when he needs to! SO I pull up to see my amazing husband standing there, poor thing I still remember that OMG look on his face! He puts me in a wheel chair and off we go!

I get checked in and family starts to arrive. Yet to have my first contraction my doctor walks in! She says she wants to start pitocin and get this show on the road.. Well about an hour after starting that junk I was in PAIN.. The meaner side of Suzie came out and I think I cursed everyone in that room! I beggen for an epidural and my wish was granted (twice!).. The first one fails, so as they go to put numbe two in they send my husband off to eat some dinner! AFter number two is put in I start yelling I needed to go to the bathroom. The nurse checks me and Im complete and ready to push! But oh wait they had to run down to the cafeteria to get Joe ;).. So he comes in with I think the rest of my family and I start pushing, 1-2-3 and STOP! Justins heartrate drops and all I remember is my doctor saying "Suzie I have to use the suction we need him out now".. So she hooks the vaccumn to Justins head and out he comes! Alittle blue and quiet they take him over to the warmer. A few minutes later I was allowed to give him a kiss on the head and gaze at his beautiful face for a second and off he went to the nursery due to some breathing issues! About this time the epidural starts kicking in (NICE!).. About 4 hours later I get wheeled to the nursery and get to hokd my precious little boy for the first time! Though he was around 5 weeks early he did surprisingly well!

My little 6lb 4oz Baby Boy
Born at 6:18pm (18:18 Military Time)
18 Inches long

How the time has flown by and I am watching you grow into an amzaing boy! You surprise and make me smile everyday! I love you sweet Justin!
-LOVE Mommy-

One of those days...

2010-03-13T19:59:00.000-08:00

Well Im sitting here at 10 o'clock, and I guess I should be in bed like everyone else in the house, but I can't sleep. Ever have one of those days when you feel like is it ever gonna stop. I woke up this morning and took Nick into the doctor. Poor guy was having a hard time and didn't even want to walk (said his legs hurt).. So after spending 3 hours at the doctor we walked out with a diagnosis of bronchitis thats turned into an upper respritory infection. So we got some meds to hopefully kick it!

I get home to walk in the house and see water all over the laundry room floor. My husband has the washer pulled out and looks at me and says "the washer is dead"!.. NICE So after cleaning up the mess and dragging the now "dead" washer to the garage, he sets off to find us a new one. Thank goodness he finds a good deal on an energy saving one at lowes (1 left in stock) and gets it home.

We get it hooked up just in time to try it out. Try it out on what you might ask.. Well at this point Nick start gettin sick all over his bed and clothes. Then has an "accident" if you get what I mean.. Poor baby! Luckly hes finally resting and Im hoping the medicine works tonight and he wakes up feeling better tommarrow..

And to top it off Emily has been running a fever and fussy. Im linking it to the tooth trying to make its way out! Ive been giving her tylenol and cool wash rags to help. Lets just PRAY she sleeps tonight, unlike the past 4 nights! So with that said I am going to head to bed! Night..

Getting Back to the Blog

2010-03-12T07:21:00.000-08:00

WOW I have really been MIA here lately. I am determined to get back to our family blog! So to get started how about a little update on everyone..

First the Kids..

Justin is doing AWESOME!! He recently got his second EVER perfect attendence award.. This is a HUGE deal for him as with his asthma each year he tends to miss alot of school. But thank you heavens above he has had a good winter this year and for this 6 week period for the second time this school year he didn't miss a day! PLUS he scored a "Outstanding Reader Award".. Hes always got perfect 100's in math, but to see hes achieving in reading is wonderful!! Gosh can you tell we are PROUD!!!

Nick is also doing AWESOME in school.. Making green light everyday and getting in the treasure box on a regular basis.. Im so excited for him to go to kindergarden next year (which we are soon to be signing him up for).. YAY..

Emily is growing like a weed. She is 10 months and full of energy. I could not ask for a better baby! Shes mastered pulling up, standing holding onto stuff, and traveling the furniture! Walking is sure to come soon, but I don't mind if we hold off on that for awhile! OH and we got our FIRST tooth this week (oh and teething is a blast.. wrong)..

Now for the big kid.....
Joe is doing good. Having alot on his plate right now, but hopefully that will be lifted soon. Hes started softball practice and also coaching Nicks t-ball team.. Oh and hes in total re-build mode as he is finishing up the motor for the camaro (picking it up Mon) and so soon he will be done with it.. I know he can't wait!

And for me Im doing good.. Alittle stressed lately, but its all understandable! I cut all my hair off the other day and highlighted it for the first time in YEARS! Still trying to get use to it.. I promise a pic will come soon!

Well thats alittle catch-up. I will post more soon - I PROMISE!
HUGS
Suzie

Let it SNOW

2010-02-02T14:19:00.000-08:00

WOW - Thats all I can say about this past 2 months!! Alot has been going on! First off Joe, me, and the kiddos are doing great! We have had a blessed year of good health and lots of smiles!! Second I want to say Thank you to everyone for your kind words and messages regarding my mom! Shes doing good and healing fast! Shes the strongest women I know and I am so proud of her!!

So now to my title - can you believe Middle TN got around 5 inches of snow this past week. Yea and you all from TN know that about shut the city down.. The kids had a blast playing in the snow, but dang is cabin fever hitting hard! I think they are just as eager for school to start back as I am! Here are some pictures of our own Winter Wonderland!!

Happy Birthday to the Best Husband in the World!

2010-01-05T20:29:00.000-08:00

Today is Joes 26th Birthday! Happy Birthday babe - We love you!