My boys...my Life

A day in the life...

2011-04-20T12:02:00.004-05:00

The best friend claims I'm a good story teller. It probably has more to do with my dramatic nature than my writing abilities. Here's a story I thought I would share that is funny ONLY looking back because at the time...I was NOT laughing!

A couple of days ago, I had some work done on my big toe. It is now bandaged, throbbing and hard to walk on it. I have been forced to roll up my pants on the left side so the pants do not rub the toe. Put this all together and you can image me, one pant leg rolled up, with a big white banadaged toe. Got that image? Pretty right?

My 2 year old is an escape artist. He climbed out of his crib at an early age. He escaped playpens. And now, that he has figured out how to unlock doors, he escapes the house. Oh what fun!

Ok, so you have the image of me, representing the 90s version of LL COOL J with my pants roled up and an injured toe producing a minor limp. I am in the kitchen doing the dishes and I hear the lock click. Usually, I can catch him before he darts out the door...but not today. Today, my limp forces me to slow down and I barely catch him fleeting down the stairs to freedom. And this time, he had helped, the dog.

I run outside, and these two little creatures, one weighing 5 pounds, the other maybe 25, are running around like lightning...they are darting between my legs, running behind bushes, evading me at all costs to remain free birds. The 2 year old is running like he's hyped up on 100 pounds of chocolate, laughing hysterically...at me I think. I think I heard "NanaNana BooBoo" a few times. And the little shitzu puppy all of a sudden turned into underdog, able to leap tall buildings in one bounce.

I finally catch the 2 year old. I place him on my hip and he yells "NOOOOO!" like I'm taking him inside and he will never see the light of day again. But then his attitude quickly changed when he noticed that his sidekick was still free. He still had hope. He begins yelling "Run puppy" and laughing. At me, again!

Our outside dog, a loyal 8 year old weirmeraner, has pity on me and helps me wrangle the little tiny puppy. He blocks him in the corner of the flower bed and I finally grab him only to realize that since it rained last night and his legs are about 3 inches long, his entire underside is drenched and now, so am I.

So me (a soaked, tired, pained, LL Cool J impersonator), the 2 year old who quite enjoyed his brief escape to freedom and underdog have now all been cleaned, reprimanded & sent to our respective areas. Shew, what a day!

Oh, and did I forget to mention this all happened before lunch?? :)

As I get older...

2011-04-13T22:19:00.006-05:00

As I get older, I've found that the people I hold dear in my life get closer to my heart and some people that I once thought were important fade away in the background.

As I get older, I have realized that time is precious and I don't want to waste a minute of it.

As I get older, I appreciate my parents & all they did for me growing up.

As I get older, the news actually matters to me.

As I get older, my bedtime comes earlier.

As I get older, my shorts get longer.

As I get older, my sons hold my heart a little bit tighter.

As I get older, friendships are more dear to me.

As I get older, I forget why I walked into a room & have to retrace my steps.

As I get older, my "rise & shine" gets earlier.

As I get older, my purpose becomes more clear.

And the older I get, the more I realize that life is all about how you react to it and what you do with what is placed before you. But more than anything, as I get older, I realize that sometimes, it really bites to get older. :)

7 Things

2011-04-05T08:47:00.017-05:00

A fellow blogger/friend, Jessica Tucker "awarded" me the honor of posting 7 things about about myself. So here goes:

1. I love anything crafty...painting, drawing, using my Cricut. I've painted murals on walls, pictures for myself, family and friends. I've made cards, gifts. The only crafty thing I'm not good at but would like to be is sewing. Me & the sewing machine do not get along...but I will keep trying.

2. I love to cook. I try to cook something new each week and usually find recipes on AllRecipe.com or in one of the MANY cookbooks I own.

3. I love to dance...any chance I can. Whether it be in the shower, with the boys to the "hot dog dance" or just dancing in my seat when I'm driving. If I hear music, I dance. (Btw, there will be no pictures of this! ) ;)

4. My newest passion is photography. I got a D3000 for Christmas and have played with it a little bit but I can't wait to get out this spring and look through the lens.

5. I love to be outside...hiking, swimming, landscaping, playing with my boys, anything that will land me outside.

6. I am OCD, bad. My blinds have to be a certain height, I can't go to bed if the house isn't picked up, I straighten rugs, I compulsively wipe counters. And I've passed it down to my oldest. The other day he yelled from his room "Caleb is playing with all my toys and messing up my room!!" That was kind of a wake up call for me so I've tried over the last week to chill out and just let them play. Life is too short to worry about making a mess. :)

7. I play the piano, took lessons for 8 years actually. I love to play every chance I get. Feeling the keys, making music. But with 2 little ones, its hard to find the time but I'm working on making the time.

There ya go! Now I tag:

Emily C http://emily0305.blogspot.com/

Nisha K http://brooksmommy.blogspot.com/

My Boys

2011-03-15T02:07:00.003-05:00

Thursday was a bittersweet day for me as a mother. Preschool registration! Really? My sweet little 3 year old, who is curled up beside me sucking his thumb, is going to school? His face was priceless. He was beyond excited when the day arrived to sign him up and a little disappointed when I explained that he wouldn't be staying at the little table with the little chairs but that we were just signing up and he would be back in a few months. Now he tells everyone who asks "I'm not going to school yet...I just signed up." I think he's still convincing himself. :)

And this Wednesday, he is turning 4 years old and getting taller by the day. His 4T pants are quickly becoming high-waters and 4/6 from the "big boy" section no longer swallow him whole. I love that he's growing and he's healthy but man, when other mom's tell you that times flies, they aren't kidding!! Time literally flies and I feel like I've blinked.

And then there was the little one. I am exhausted just thinking about typing up all the things he has gotten into, just today. He literally has me running after him, saying no, stop that, don't do that, put that down, 24/7. Ok, I'm exaggerating, because he does sleep so it's more like 14/7. :) But when I'm not chasing him or telling him to not drop the puppy on his head, that boy makes me smile! His laugh is infectious. His smile is contagious. He just has a way about him that can light up a room, that turns heads, that puts an instant smile on your face which makes discipline hard at times. How do you scold someone who is reaching for you, puckering up and saying "sowwy mommy?" He has me wrapped around his little chubby finger and he knows. :)

And speaking of puppies, the oldest got an early birthday present. Meet Murphy, our 8 week old Shih-Tzu puppy. Isn't he adorable?! He's done really well so far and the boys love him. We are working on potty training this week and teaching the little one not to pick him up by his HEAD! :)

Things You Might Not Know About Me

2011-03-15T01:42:00.005-05:00

I started this particular blog and it soon became a rambling mess. Here's the condensed version.

Things you might now know about me...and yes, I know I'm odd and probably a little OCD. :)

1. At supper, I drink my Dr. Pepper or Tea out of a wine glass. Makes me feel fancy! :P
2. I can NOT sleep with socks on, even in the dead of winter.
3. I'm not a huge chocolate fan (which I think makes me lose several "female" points) unless peanut butter is attached (i.e. Reese's PB Cups)
4. Pet Peeves: people who don't reply to calls/texts/emails, LAZINESS, rude public employees (if you hate your job THAT much, quit!)
5. I love any movie/book about vampires or witches. (Nothing to do with religion, I just love the topic & find it interesting and entertaining).
6. I don't like my blinds raised all the way to the top of the window...they have to be raised half way, completely level in the middle.
7. I have such a tender heart that the littlest things make me cry which is why shows like Extreme Home MakeOver are banned from my house...I literally go into a sobbing fit. It's ridiculous! :)
8. I can't sleept without a fan, preferably blowing in my face.
9. Since May 2010, I've lost 16 pounds. (Slow & steady wins the race, right??)
10. I LOVE snack food (chips, cookies, little debbies, etc) and that's why I do NOT buy any of that stuff. I will literally eat an entire bag/pkg at a time.
11. One of my favorite drinks is a glass of half 7-UP/Sprite and half Welch's Grape Juice. Try it!

Just a few little silly things about me. What about you? Pet Peeves? Weird things you can't live without?

Valentine's Bunco Cards

2011-02-09T01:17:00.004-06:00

I play Bunco with a great group of girls the first Friday night of every month. We have such a great time & it's just a chance for all of us to get away from our jobs, our families, our kids, our husbands, our "lives" and just chill out with the girls. We laugh, we roll some dice & best of all, we eat!! :)

For February, I decided to spice things up a bit and make our bunco score sheets a little more festive. Check them out! :)

I just used the rounded edge square on the George Cricut Catridge, size 5 I think. Then I glued the score sheet in the center and glued a button on the top to finish it off. I started to tie tulle through a few of them but it was going to get in the way of keeping score so I left that off of the rest of them.

Happy Birthday to my hubby!

2011-02-09T01:11:00.003-06:00

February 2 was the hubby's birthday. One of the kiddos was sick so I couldn't get out and buy real flowers like I had intended. So I MADE him a bouquet of flowers instead. I used the George Cricut cartridge flowers, sizes 2 and 2 1/2 in a blue print and then shadowed those sizes with a basic color. Then I glued various colored buttons in the center. I then glued the flowers onto wooden sticks, in varying lengths. Turned out pretty cute if I do say so myself. :)

I also used one of the flowers to make him a card. He loved it!!! :)

Red Yarn Valentine's Wreath

2011-01-25T10:05:00.005-06:00

This wreath took me a little time because you have to wind the yarn around the wreath but it was well worth it! This turned out incredibly cute and simple.

The flowers are 1.5, 2.5 & 3 inch flowers on the George Cricut Cartridge painted with sparkle paint, glued together and I placed a rosette of red yard in the middle.

I wrapped a wooden wreath in red yarn. I hot glued it at the starting point and then hot glued at 3 other points just to make sure it stayed tight and wouldn't slide.
Then I hotglued the flowers onto the yarn.

Fun with the George Cricut Cartridge

2011-01-25T09:54:00.005-06:00

I have been a busy little beaver...or shall I say busy little cricut the past 2 days!! I am having so much fun with the Cricut. Here are a few things that I have made so far.

Winter "Thinking of you" Card (5x7)

Pink & Yellow Thinking of You

Bi-fold "Thinking of You"

Winter Blues

2011-01-24T02:09:00.009-06:00

For Christmas, I received a Cricut and tonight was the first night I have been able to open it up & check it out. It is AWESOME, to say the least. If you are even remotely into crafting, you must purchase one or borrow one or at least beg someone to let you use theirs. The possibilities are endless. So I'm sure you will continue to see project after project as I tap into the many adventures with my new toy.

Tonight, I made a snowman to hang in the middle of my wintry wreath.

I cut a 2" and a 3" circle and then glued them together. I also used blue hearts as the buttons but you could use actual buttons to give it a more 3D affect

Then I made him a hat. I took a circle the same size and drew the actual hat on the scrap circle. Then I cut it out and glue it on the snowman, at an angle.

I added a face with permant marker. You could add an orange nose with felt or paper but I didn't want to add any other colors than blues & white so I just stuck with drawing it on.

Also, I added a scarf. I just cut a piece of paper and folded it over the back & glued it.

Then I took another piece of paper and "fringed" it at the bottom, just making tiny slits. And I also but a ball on the top of his hat and did the fringe affect on the hat as well.

(He's not too pretty on the back) But to be able to hang him, I just took ribbon and glued it on with a sheet of stiff construction paper as extra insurance.

Here is the finished product, my wintry wreath!

I got the wreath idea from a friend but it's basically just tying ribbon & tulle onto a straw/styrofoam wreath. You can check out her other great ideas & super cute crafts on her blog, 62 Cards

Canvas O' Love

2011-01-24T00:05:00.004-06:00

Painted this for my neices birthday but it could also be used as a unique Valentine. Write a cute message in each painted block or write something that you love about your boyfriend/girlfriend/spouse. Who wouldn't want to see hanging on the wall every day and be reminded how much someone loves them?! Happy creating!!

Oops...been a little busy

2010-12-17T13:42:00.002-06:00

I haven't posted since May...wow!! I honestly thought that when I became a SAHM, I would have all the time in the world for little things like updating my blog, but to be honest, I have less free time now than I did before. My 2 boys keep me so busy that I barely have time to shower some days. :)

Jackson will be 4 in March. YIKES! He is so smart and funny and active. He loves super heroes and monster trucks and the Wii. He can maneuver the Wii better than most adults I know. He knows his ABCs and can count to 15. He's a smart little cookie.

Caleb will be 2 in April. I just can't hardly believe it. He's my funny,shy guy. When he meets people, it takes him a little bit to get turned on, but when he does he's constantly making funny faces to make people laugh. He repeats about anything you say to him and he loves books and any type of ball game.

I just can't get over how much they have changed, just in the 7 months since I've posted on here. Time flies is a cliche, but it's true.

Moms need breaks too

2010-05-05T00:43:00.002-05:00

Has it really been a month since I posted here? To be honest, I am so busy these days that I forget I even have a blog sometimes. So for those checking this more frequently than I do, I apologize.

As I've mentioned before, I am a stay at home mom. I wanted to be home with my boys & enjoy life with them while they are young. But what I've found is that I'm just as busy, if not more so, than I was when I was working. I have a meeting this day or a jewelry event another day and I find myself wishing I could be doing NOTHING and just BE with my boys.

But then I remember that I desperately need those breaks. Not that I don't enjoy spending time with the my boys but after a full day of a 3 year old and a 1 year old, following behind you all day saying "Mama, Mama, Mama, Mama" and pulling on you and spilling stuff on the floor and wiping snot on your shirt, handing you boogers they have picked, whining because you won't let them do something, crying because their brother ran over them with a tricycle...after days like that, a girl could use a break.

So I just remind myself that I should enjoy every moment with my boys (great moments, annoying moments, etc.) and cherish the fact that I have been given an opportunity to be with them far more than most.

Tree Mural for Caleb

2010-04-08T10:38:00.009-05:00

I finally got Caleb's mural on his wall!! I free handed an outline on the wall. Then I painted a base coat of khaki over the existing wall color inside the outline. This way you won't have to do an extra coat once you start the actual tree color.

Then I started adding the tiny branches & the dark tree color on top of the khaki.

Then I took some acrylic black & white and added some to the brown that I purchased for the tree so I could have some paint to make the details. (I mixed these colors in styrofoam bowls I had on hand) This will save you from buying numerous cans of paint.

I bought 2 pints of paint. A darker brown & then a green. I did the same thing with the green that I did with the brown to get some accent/detail colors.

Happy painting!!

Uh-oh!!

2010-03-11T09:47:00.002-06:00

It's Girl Scout Cookie time and guess what that means, I've gained 2 pounds!! :) I weighed in this morning at 167. Guess that's what happens when you demolish half a box of Samoas but they were oh so good!!

Now that I have the Girl Scout Cookie fix out of my system, I will get back on track. Spring is just around the corner and we are purchasing the boys a playset in a few weeks so that will be great exercise for all of us.

Mexican Chicken "Lasagna"

2010-01-28T11:40:00.003-06:00

1 pkg cream cheese
1/4 cup lightly packed cilantro leaves, chopped
2 cups shredded Monterey Jack cheese, divided
1 can enchilada sauce (or use 22 oz jar of salsa + 1/2 cup water)
12 corn tortillas
3 cups diced cooked chicken
1 medium onion, chopped

Step 1: Place cream cheese in bowl. Microwave on HIGH 30-45 seconds or until very soft. Add cilantro & 1 1/2 cups cheese. Mix well.

Step 2: Spread 2/3 cup of the enchilada sauce in bottom of a deep dish. Pour remaining enchilada sauce into bowl and set aside.

Step 3: Dip 4 of the tortillas into enchilada sauce and arrange over sauce in the deep dish, overlapping is fine. Scoop half the cream cheese mixture over tortillas & spread. Top with 1 cup of the chicken & 1/3 of the onion. Repeat layers one time.

Step 4: Pour remaining enchilada sauce over dish and sprinkle with the remaining cheese.

Step 5: Microwave, covered, on high for 12-15 minutes or until center is hot.

Enjoy!!

"BBQ" Baked Potato

2010-01-28T11:31:00.004-06:00

1 pound ground beef
1 pound bacon
1/2 cup chopped onion
3/4 cup brown sugar
1 teaspoon mustard
1 can baked beans (I used Bush's Country Style)
1 can Chili Beans
1 tsp garlic powder
1/4 cup BBQ sauce

Step 1: Fry bacon in a large skille over medium heat until crip. Remove to paper towel & drain grease from skillet. Crumble ground beef in the same skillet; cook under evenly browned. Add onions & BBq sauce to meat and cook until onions are wilted.

Step 2: Transfer beef mixture to slow cooker. Crumble bacon and add to slow cooker. Pour in baked beans and chili beans. Add remainder of ingredients. Cover and heat on low for 5 hours.

Step 3: An hour before serving, wrap potatoes in aluminum foil and bake in oven for one hour.

Step 4: When potatoes are done, place on plate and smother with BBQ mixture.

Serve immediately.

Wall Hangings

2010-01-12T00:01:00.005-06:00

Here is a wall hanging I made for Caleb's room.

Cornflake Squares

2010-01-11T14:30:00.004-06:00

Cornflake Squares (no-bake)

Ingredients:
1 cup White Syrup
1 cup Peanut Butter
1 Cup Sugar
3 or more cups regular cornflakes

1. Cook Syrup and sugar until it boils.
2. Add Peanut Butter & stir until blended
3. Mix liquid mixture with cornflakes
4. Spread into a 9X9 baking dish

**Optional, drizzle chocolate on top.

**You can add a variety of ingredients to this recipe and make it your own. Try chocolate chips or to add a touch of salty flavor, add pecans.

Chicken Pot Pie

2010-01-11T12:31:00.004-06:00

Ingredients:
1 (10.75 oz) can of Cream of Chicken Soup
1 frozen pkg of mixed vegetables, thawed
1 cup cubed chicken, cooked
1/2 cup milk
1 egg
1 cup Bisquick (all-purpose baking mix)
Salt & Pepper to taste

**Don't use generic veggies. They have too strong of a taste.
**If you have any leftover veggies,(i.e. corn, green beans, etc) use those.
**I added shredded cheese to the mix but you really couldn't taste it

1. Preheat Oven to 400 degree F
2. Cook the chicken in a skillet (I seasoned with garlic powder & onion powder)
3. Mix soup, vegetables & chicken. Add salt & pepper to taste
4. Pour chicken mixture into a 9-inch pie plate (If you don't have one, a 8x8 baking dish will work)
5. Mix milk, eggs, and Bisquick. Pour this mixture over the chicken mixture.
6. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until golden.

**I had to cook it at least 35 minutes. I just checked it to make sure the top was golden brown.

Good luck!

Snow Days

2010-01-10T22:48:00.002-06:00

In the past 4 days, we're probably gotten 3 inches of snow and another inch is headed our way. Sadly, the area has all but shut down. Schools are closed, people can't get to work, it's bad. But yet, my cousins live in Illinois and they have had over THIRTY inches of snow and school hasn't been called off yet. Do you sense the irony? :) Anyway,I just find it funny that the weatherman yells snow and people flock to the grocery store for milk and bread like there is no tomorrow. Literally, the bread shelves at walmart were bare. How do I know this?? Because I had to get my milk and bread before the big snow. ;)

Jackson has loved the snow and has enjoyed playing in it. He found a slick spot in the driveway and "skated." He is too funny and I can't imagine my life without him.

Post Christmas 2009

2009-12-27T20:09:00.003-06:00

Is Christmas really over?? It seems we shop for months and months and then the big day comes and you blink your eyes and its gone. I wish you could bottle up that excitement, that anticipation and use it at other times throughout the year. Christmas definitely is a magical time especially with little ones running around. Jackson loved opening presents and was a big helper passing out everyone elses presents too. And Caleb enjoyed his presents but I think he liked the wrapping and tissue better even better. ;)

Corey was way too generous once again. My husband is a very good gift giver!

And while the presents are a big part of Christmas in our house, we must not forget those that are less fortunate, who are not able to be so generous with their families. And while I don't want to be cliche, the phrase "Jesus is the reason for the season" is quite appropriate. So I sit back now, as I hold my oldest in my arms, and remember that God has blessed me with a strong, healthy family and a wonderful life.

My crazy life...

2009-12-08T13:29:00.002-06:00

My life has definitely changed since I decided to stay at home with the boys. But instead of the organized, crafty, fun mom I thought I would be, I have yet again filled my life with busy things.

I have recently become a consultant for a company called Just Jewelry. It is gorgeous jewelry at affordable prices and I wanted to work with this merchandise because it is affordable and allows women with a smaller budget the ability to accessorize. www.itsjustjewelry.com

I also was asked to be the President of the Barren County Networking Women. What an honor! I am nervous about the upcoming year but I look forward to all that this group can accomplish together.

I guess that no matter where I am or what I'm doing, I will fill my life with tasks because to be idle is just not something I can do.

I pray for the upcoming year to be successful in business, as a leader, as a wife and most of all, as a mother of 2 beautiful boys who are my life!

The CountDown Begins

2009-09-28T13:09:00.005-05:00

Wow! It's almost been 2 months since I've posted on here. Needless to say, my life is super busy these days. But I am excited to announce that as of October 30, I will be leaving the regular work force and joining an elite group of people...Stay At Home Mommies! That's right, I am excited to say that I get to be at home with my boys. I cannot wait...can you tell?!?! :) We can never get these precious first years back and I can always work when they are older. We might have to make a few sacrifices but they will be more than worth it.

33 days and counting!!!!!!!!!!

My boys

2009-08-05T15:08:00.004-05:00

My sweet boys are getting so big on me. Caleb will be 4 months old tomorrow! WOW!! I can hardly believe it. And Jackson...man, he is something else.

A few nights ago, he was watching a hunting channel with his daddy and the guy on there shot a deer. Well, Jackson went up to the tv, smacked it and said "Good job! Give me five!" Cracks me up!

And Caleb is rolling over, pushing up, and is ALWAYS laughing or smiling. He is such a happy baby. And he just watches Jackson, his eyes follow him wherever he goes. When he gets older, I'm sure I'll be in trouble.

My boys...my life

Caleb is 14 weeks

2009-07-17T13:33:00.004-05:00

As you can see from the picture, my sweet Caleb loves to eat! :)

And he is such a wonderful baby. At almost 14 weeks, he is already sleeping through the night about 90% of the time and rarely cries unless he's incredibly hungry or very tired. He is VERY fond of sleep and wants to go to bed no later than 7:30pm. He loves to cuddle, which is currently one of my favorite activities. And he just started laughing last week. Oh the sound of his laughter just makes my day!!

I am blessed. I try not to forget that very fact. And when things are cloudy and I seem to lean towards the negative, I just look at my handsome boys faces and I know that I have far more than I deserve and am a lucky, lucky mommy.

Jackson & the Potty

2009-07-17T13:09:00.003-05:00

We are in the midst of potty training Jackson. I pray for patience. At first, Jackson was excited about the idea because he would be BIG like Mommy & Daddy. However, the idea of using the potty no longer excites him. I say "potty", he screams "no!" As I say, I pray for patience.

2 months old!

2009-06-12T21:20:00.003-05:00

Caleb is now 2 months old! Really?? Already?? The little feller had his 2 month check-up yesterday. He weighs 11 lbs 5ozs and is 22 1/2 inches long. He had to have shots though so that wasn't exactly pleasant. Bless his little heart!

I can't get over how much he has changed already. I am finally learning all of his sounds, his movements, his cries. And he is very much a momma's boy which makes my heart sing. While I wish he could find comfort in other people's arms like he finds in mine, a part of me feels special that my touch and my voice give him such peace.

When Jackson was born, it was exciting and new and an amazing learning experience. We documented every second of each day and oohed and aahed over each new development. Caleb has added a whole new element to our lives, a part of my life I didn't even know was missing. Now he has filled a section of my heart and I feel complete now.

Last day

2009-05-31T13:07:00.002-05:00

Today is my last day of maternity leave. I am both sad and excited at the same time. On one hand I will miss spending quality alone time with Caleb but on the other hand, I am ready to get back out into the working world and have adult conversation again.

Jackson has spent this week at home with me as well due to a virus but also because I wanted to spend more time with him before I returned to work. He has become a Mommys boy over the past few weeks and I can't say it doesn't tickle me to death! I have received so many kisses over the last little bit. Makes my heart melt to hear "I love you Mommy."

Jackson to the zoo

2009-05-31T13:03:00.003-05:00

Corey & I wanted to spend some one on one time with Jackson so Aunt Leslie watched Caleb while we took Jackson to the Louisville Zoo. His favorite part was the "monk-nees" and the playground. We had a GREAT day!!

Caleb & Brenna

2009-05-31T12:58:00.002-05:00

Our visit with Aunt Christi and cousin Brenna. Needless to say, it's a little difficult to get an 8 week old and a 6 week old to cooperate for pictures

Mother of two

2009-05-04T13:08:00.005-05:00

The life that I now lead is different than before. It's different because I have to share my time between three men now instead of two and there is a certain someone who doesn't enjoy sharing my attention.

One of Jackson's favorite activities is laying a blanket across my legs and driving his trucks and tractors all over the blanket. The blanket has to be just right and no one else can quite get the blanket right but me. During this activity, Caleb decided it was time to eat but Jackson was having NONE of that. "No Mommy, Daddy feed the baby." "No Mommy, you don't feed baby." It was cute and sweet but it also reminded me that my little dude needs my attention just as much as our newest arrival.

Caleb is thriving and doing really well. He eats ALL THE TIME. I've had to add formula to his diet just to keep him satisfied. But he is growing so much. I always wanted a little chunky baby (Jackson was quite thin) and I think I will get my wish this time. Caleb is an eater!! I love his little leg rolls that are developing.

Jackson is adjusting really well. Yes, he wants far more attention from me now that he doesn't have it entirely but he shares his mommy quite well. He tries to give the baby trucks to play with and just yesterday, I found a fruit snack in the baby's bassinet. He doesn't quite understand that Caleb can't eat food yet. Sweet that he wants to share though.

I still have a month left at home with my little one. I am doing my best to enjoy it (despite the gloomy weather) and look forward to watching Caleb grow (and grow) each day!! Thanks for checking in with us.

Caleb is here

2009-04-29T15:14:00.003-05:00

Caleb Aubrey Reece was born on April 6 at 1:23am. He is now 3 weeks old and is such a wonderful baby. As you may have noticed, this post is a little past due but the life of a mom with 2 kids is a little more time consuming than my life before. But I love it! I feel like our family is complete now.

Jackson has been so good with the baby. He wants to kiss him all the time and love on him. He doesn't understand the word "gentle" all the time, but he's doing better. And of course he acts a little jealous sometimes but Corey and I try to make sure we both give him plenty of attention.

Thanks to everyone who has checked on us and for the many gifts we have received. We are truly blessed.

15 days or less!

2009-04-01T11:25:00.002-05:00

Today, I am less than 15 days from holding my little man. I went to the doctor last week and he said I should stay at home until delivery so that is what I am doing...resting, cleaning, and bored out of my mind! You can mop the floors only so many times. :)

So we wait. I cannot wait until Caleb is here, so I can hold him and smell him and just feel him next to me. I know that bringing him home will be a challenge, far more challenging than actually bringing him into this world (although the delivery process gets its due respect, and fear)but I worry about how Jackson will react. At times, he doesn't want to talk about the baby and if you ask him if Mommy can have a baby, he very adamantly says NO! But at other times, he talks to the baby and like last night, he was eating chips and out of no where, he walked up to me and pressed a chip to my belly and said "chip for the baby mama." And as the chip crumbled against my belly, NO part of me was angry that he had made a mess but was in awe that my little man had thought to share his chip with his unborn brother. It doesn't get anymore precious than that.

So we are excited and anxiously awaiting Caleb's arrival. It will in fact be less than 15 days because the doctor said I wouldn't go past next Thursday, if I don't have him on my own before that. I am dilated at 2cm and already thinning so it could be anytime. Will it be today? Tomorrow? Next week? Only time will tell. Until then, I sit and wait for our precious baby boy to arrive.

My little man is TWO!

2009-03-15T10:24:00.004-05:00

Yesterday we celebrated Jackson's 2nd birthday! (His birthday is actually March 16). I can't believe my little man is two. Just two years ago, I was laying in the hospital bed, after all was said and done, and the doctor layed this tiny baby on my chest and tears of relief, joy and excitement poured down my face because my precious baby boy had arrived.

Now he's two! He's running around, talking a mile a minute, feeding himself, telling stories, just being an independent little boy. For a moment, I'm a little depressed about that but then again, it's an exciting time because he's learning so much and so much fun to be around. I don't know what Corey and I did for entertainment before Jackson came along.

A special thank you to my friend Nisha for helping me with Jackson's birthday party yesterday. I've been sick all week, started feeling better on Thursday and regressed on Friday so Nisha took over and cooked and set up for the party. Corey was also a big help as well. I have good people in my life.

Thanks to all you attended Jackson's party. It meant alot to us!!

37 days to go.

2009-03-10T21:33:00.002-05:00

37 days to go!!!! I can't wait until little Caleb is here. Right now though, I am concentrating on getting over this nasty flu. Silly me didn't get my flu shot like I should have. I just want to get past this sickness so I can get back to waiting for my new little man to arrive. I am anxious to see how Jackson is going to interact with him. I can't wait to have those pictures of Jackson holding Caleb and I can't wait to go through all those baby stages again (except the waking up every 2 hour part) :)

In 37 days or less, my little Caleb will be arriving and I can't wait. Pray for his safe entry into this world.

Girls Day

2009-02-22T13:38:00.003-06:00

Yesterday I spent the day with friends and it was nice. My day started at Serenity Spa where I got a massage, a facial and a pedicure. It was heaven! After my "cankles" got that much attention, they actually looked normal (for a few hours anyway). Then I came home and watched UK win..YAY!! And then I spent the evening with some girl friends. Only a few showed up but we made the most of the night and had a great time! I cherish the wonderful friends that I have.

A special thank you to my friend Nisha who planned the day for me! You are the best and I love you!!!!!

My husband, the hero

2009-02-19T13:09:00.006-06:00

Through this entire pregnancy, my poor husband has taken the brunt of many emotional eruptions and bouts of utter exhaustion. Who knew that a tiny creature growing inside of me could cause such emotional distress and such complete exhaustion. My dear husband has definitely picked up the slack at the house, even more so than he normally does. I don't know what I would do if he wasn't such a huge help around the house. Some women go their entire lives waiting hand and foot on their husbands and being complete Super-Women, doing it all. I am blessed that I don't have to struggle through that. To all the women who do...YOU ROCK! To all the men who help their wives...you are true men in my book!

Hopefully soon (just 56 days to go) I will be back to my normal self and I can help my husband as he has helped me through this pregnancy. Thanks again honey!!

Our Little Man has a name

2009-02-14T19:46:00.002-06:00

We have finally decided upon a name for this precious gift that will be in our lives in about 2 months. Caleb Aubrey Reece! Caleb is a family name from Corey's side and Aubrey was my great-grandfathers name. We are excited about finally having a name instead of just saying "baby." I was reluctant about Caleb at first but Corey has loved it from the start and the more I thought about it, the more I liked it.

We are anxiously awaiting Caleb's arrival in about 60 days! I am sooooooo ready!

Happy Valentine's Day

2009-02-14T19:40:00.003-06:00

Yesterday I took a much needed day off and worked on some stuff at the house. A knock on the door in the middle of the day startled me but I gladly greeted the lady at the door for she was holding a gorgeous bouquet of flowers from my husband. Today I woke up to the smell of country ham and eggs. My sweet husband cooked me a Valentine's Breakfast. If you knew Corey, you would know how much this meant to me. The rest of the day was spent resting. I haven't been feeling the best this week so I got to rest and got an actual nap today as well. Thank you Corey for the flowers, the sweet card and gift, the breakfast and most of all, the nap! :)

Last night we had a Valentine's dinner with my parents and my two sisters. It's always nice to spend time with my family.

Birthday

2009-02-05T15:10:00.002-06:00

Today is my 28th Birthday! It has been such a wonderful day so far. I've received flowers, cards, a ton of calls & messages and a cake. And Corey took me out to lunch. I am very blessed to have such wonderful friends and family and I thank ALL of you for making me feel so incredibly special.

86 and counting

2009-01-20T13:17:00.003-06:00

In approximately 86 days, I will be holding the newest addition the the Reece family. I am beginning to get excited about his arrival. His room is completed and ready for him anytime. We've painted and got the house just about the way we want it so there are no projects that should have to be done when he arrives. I just can't wait to hold him and see his tiny toes and fingers. And I can't wait to see how Jackson interacts with him. He wants to rub my stomach all the time now which I think is cute. I recently purchased a pregnancy belt to help out with the tremendous back pain that has accompanied this pregnancy and last night, when I raised up my shirt to scratch my belly, Jackson saw my belt. He instantly had to have one as well. So I tied his blankie around his waist so he could have a belt like mommy.

He's amazing. He knows the colors blue & green. And he's beginning to count, not correctly, but he counts. Instead of one, two, three, it's two, five, six. At least they are in order. ;)

Jackson's 1st Play Date

2009-01-15T13:22:00.003-06:00

Jackson had his first play date last night. Carter & Maddie Harbison and Kruz Tucker came over. It was so much fun! They bounced, they jumped, they ran, they laughed, they cried, they punched, they had a ball! (So did the moms). We all had so much fun that we have decided to make it a monthly occurence.

My boys...

2009-01-09T14:59:00.001-06:00

Look at this gorgeous face! The big blue eyes, the shining smile...and the crust around his mouth and the green bruise above his eye! ;) But you know what, to me, he looks perfect. He is such a character and so full of life. I love every minute of watching him grow up. Each day is full of new words, new dance moves, new wonders.

Last night, Jackson and I were laying in bed and I was explaining to him he couldn't kick me in the stomach because he would hurt the baby. About that time, the baby kicked Jackson in the leg. Of course Jackson didn't know what it was but I laughed. It's already started!!! I can't wait until the baby gets here. It will so much fun...and so much work. But it will be worth it.

And no, we don't have a name picked out yet. We are tossing some names around and I will let you know as soon as we know. But until then, keep checking in on us and praying for the safe arrival of Baby Reece #2.

Christmas 2008

2009-01-08T15:17:00.001-06:00

Make a Smilebox scrapbook

The holidays

2008-12-30T13:53:00.002-06:00

Apparently, I was a very good girl this year! My Christmas was far more than I deserved and I am truly blessed to have such a wonderful family. The best part of the holidays is spending time with my family and we did that in abundance. Traditional Christmas Eve was with my dad's side of the family and Christmas morning was with my mom's side of the family. As always, we all had a wonderful time together and it was nice to just get together.

Jackson was such a blast this year! He tore into every present and oohed and aawed over everything. He received so many wonderful gifts from everyone and it brings a tear to my just thinking about how much my child is loved by so many. Thank you to everyone who thought of us during this holiday season.

Oh, and my loving husband bought me a new camera for Christmas so I will post pictures soon.

Snow days!

2008-12-16T13:05:00.005-06:00

Remember when we were young and in school and the word "snow" was mentioned. Oh the anticipation of staying home from school on snow days. Jackson is already enjoying the benefits. Nana was out of school today for a snow day so he is spending the day with the entire Perkins family. Nana got some old toys down for Jackson to play with. He's loving the old gas station that his mommy used to play with. :)

Christmas Parade

2008-12-09T10:31:00.002-06:00

Rachel and I got to meet the 08 Parade Grand Marshal and country music artist Andy Griggs. He was very nice and easy on the eyes. But man...don't Rachel and I look GREAT in our tobogans and heavy coats! ;) It was cold during the parade but we had a great time. Jackson loved the lights and he sat in Mom's lap and never moved a muscle.

Guess what?

2008-12-04T16:02:00.004-06:00

Me at 20 weeks
Baby's first picture

It's a BOY!

Oh yes...this girl I was just SURE I was carrying around is in fact, a precious baby boy. Corey and I got to see him Wednesday. At first he wasn't cooperating and the doctor said I would have to reschedule. I have been waiting to say HE or SHE instead of IT for 5 months now...I wasn't going to wait another month. So I moved him around and the doctor tried again and there he was.

It's good though because who else would Jackson play tractors with or marvel at barns with or shoot pictures of deer with. And I shall be surrounded by a sea of boys as my father has been engulfed by a flock of girls all of his adult life.

Family Pictures

2008-12-02T13:30:00.001-06:00

The Perkins Family
The Reece Family

The grandkids & great-grandkid

Papa, Jackson & his tractor

We took family pictures this past weekend. Mr Jackson didn't care too much for it so the tractors had to be used. Whatever works! :)

Thankful for...

2008-11-19T10:43:00.002-06:00

Thanksgiving is approaching and there are so many things that I am thankful for...

My healthy, gorgeous son.
My loving husband.
The precious life growing inside of me.
My family who is always there, whether I want them to be or not. ;)
My friends, the ones that are there for me and lift me up when I'm down.
My job, although I complain about it, at least I'm employed & help support my family.
The holiday season-it's my favorite time of year.
My faith-it wavers at times but God is always there for me.
My in-laws-the people I have grown to love and cherish.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone!

Hunting Season

2008-11-19T10:18:00.002-06:00

Here's a picture of Corey and Jackson scoping out a good hunting spot at Granny's. Corey has gotten to "escape" for a few hours every weekend and do something he enjoys...hunting. He is such a HUGE help to me and I know his life is very stressful at times so I'm glad he gets those moments to spend some alone time. And Jackson likes to watch hunting shows with Corey. If you ask him what Daddy does to deer, he puts his hands together (sort of like a gun) and says pow (or something that sounds like pow.) ;)

Halloween 2008

2008-11-14T11:28:00.002-06:00

Halloween was so much fun! I didn't know what to expect out of my wild and crazy little man but he was such a treat. He held Emily's hand as they walked up to doors, he held out his little bag and stayed still while they put candy in there for him. They would say thank you and walk away. It was the sweetest site. Of course, at one resident, while they had Emily engaged in conversation, he grabbed 6 pieces of candy and put it in his bag while they weren't looking. ;) We had a great time! Hope everyone had a safe and happy Halloween.

Not a happy day...

2008-11-12T13:09:00.003-06:00

I sat at my desk today and prayed for God to give me the strength to overcome some struggles I am facing right now. I sat there, tears streaming down my face, at my office hoping that God could help me make the right decisions and help me get through the things that I face. I am asking for everyone's prayers as I look into my heart to find the peace I am looking for and the answers to the prayers that I am sending God's way.

I'm ready

2008-10-18T10:45:00.003-05:00

180 days! That's approximately how long it will be before this little one will be in my arms. I watched videos of Jackson as a baby today and was instantly overwhelmed by the idea of holding another tiny baby in my arms again. We've entered the world of independence and potty training. Will the rules of a newborn come back to me? Will I have enough attention for both my babies? I want to love my children equally and treat them the same. Is that possible?

I'm just ready to hold him or her and revisit that feeling when they lay the baby on your chest after you've fought long and hard to bring them into the world. That feeling of complete joy and utter excitement as your stare at this beautiful creation that is ALL yours. That feeling of relief and thankfulness that this baby, this gorgeous baby, is healthy and ready to take on the world with you. I'm ready.

Jackson's Orchard

2008-10-10T15:12:00.002-05:00

This past weekend, we took Jackson to Jackson's Orchard. He had a great time! His favorite part was the caramel apple. And he loved the straw maze. I think he would have done it a 100 times if we had let him. It was a fun day!

#2 is on the way...

2008-09-24T19:48:00.002-05:00

In case you haven't seen me lately, I am expecting our second child. And the reason I made that comment is even though I'm only 11 weeks pregnant, I look more like 21 weeks pregnant. They say you show quicker the second time but I think the moment I saw the positive line on the test, my belly started pooching.

Jackson doesn't quite understand yet but we're working on it. I rub my belly and tell him there is a baby in there. He in turn rubs his belly and says baby. Mom gave him a baby doll and we've been showing him how to love it and hold it and be sweet. He grabs the baby fiercely, bear hugs the doll and throws it on the floor. We have more work to do. :)

We're excited and nervous at the same time. Jackson was so healthy and so perfect. I just keep praying that baby #2 will be just as healthy.

As of today, for I have yet to have an ultrasound, I am due mid April...just a month after Jackson turns two. Oh yes, two in diapers. Our next project is potty training. He's interested but we'll see how it goes...

Hide and Seek

2008-09-14T20:44:00.004-05:00

My little man is growing up so fast. Today Jackson and Corey were playing hide and seek in his room. We tried to teach Jackson the act of covering his eyes so Daddy could hide, but he couldn't quite grasp it...b/c he would cover them long enough for Corey to take 2 steps. And then of course Jackson dictated where Corey would hide by saying "daddy shide" and he would point behind the door or in the closet. And still, each and every time, even though Jackson watched Corey hide, he thought it was the most hilarious thing. It was adorable!

I'm just really enjoying watching Jackson grow up and learn new words each and every day.

Our first trip to the ER

2008-09-01T09:38:00.003-05:00

Jackson before his stitches

Yesterday, we had our first visit to the emergency room. Jackson was visiting friends and he fell and hit his head on a church pew. Luckily, our friends reacted quickly and got him looked at by a doctor at church. They brought him back to Glasgow and we met up at the Urgent Clinic. I held back my tears until I saw him. But you know what...he was fine. He was laughing and running around like nothing had happened. That is...until it came time to check out the wound.

Oh the tears, mine and his. They had to wrap him up so he wouldn't struggle and he layed there, with tears streaming down his little face, screaming "dada." I couldn't handle it and had to step out. But after they were done with those THREE stitches, he wanted his momma and momma wanted Jackson. By the time we walked up to pay, my brave little man was already drying up his tears. And when the suckers came into view, all was forgotten. It didn't matter to me that he had blue sticky stuff all over his face. He could have had ten suckers if he wanted them at that moment.

It was an experience that I hope we don't repeat but boys will be boys, right? He falls ALOT. This one time, while he away from momma, just happened to be a little bit worse than normal. But there will be more falls. And there will be more bumps and bruises. Such is life.

Big boy shoes...

2008-08-25T20:34:00.000-05:00

Check out the new Nike Shocks!
Big boy shoes for such a big boy!

"Uncle" Bradley

2008-08-25T20:26:00.002-05:00

Jackson got to ride around with "Uncle" Bradley in a skidsteer. He thought he was big stuff. Of course, it was a tractor to him but he had fun no matter the name.

Jackson at Aunt Leslie's

2008-07-27T14:40:00.004-05:00

Jackson asleep on the hammock
Jackson stayed asleep even after he rolled over. Bless his heart.

Jackson and I headed out to Aunt Leslie's Saturday to "help" can green beans and corn. I think we were more of a distraction than help but at least we got to spend time with Leslie, Katie and Will. Jackson got fussy toward the end of the day and Aunt Leslie took him outside to lay in the hammock. Within 5 minutes, he fell asleep. Thanks Aunt Leslie for a fun day!

Where did my baby go?

2008-07-21T13:43:00.002-05:00

I have such a big boy now. Yesterday, I layed him down for a nap and a few minutes later, I heard a thud. My baby had climbed out of his crib. How he did it, I'll never know but I fould him on the floor of his room crying. Now we're talking about big boy beds. Where did the time go?

On vacation, he disappeared for a few minutes. We all were walking around the place saying his name. After a few minutes, he jumped out of the closet. He had been hiding, quiet as a mouse. He's too young to be doing that already.

He has gotten into a mean streak as well. Oh the joy! He will pinch me but then turn around and hug my neck and kiss me...has he already figured out how things work?!?!? "If I'm nice to Momma after I'm mean to her, she won't spank me." Am I in for the ride of my life or what?!?!

But I LOVE the new waves of affection. He will be playing in the floor and then just get up and come wrap his arms around my neck and kiss me or lay his head on my shoulder. I'll take all the pinches in the world for those moments (ok, so I'm exaggerating a little bit...those pinches HURT!)

Baby to little boy. It happens more and more every day.

Florida 2008

2008-07-20T13:31:00.003-05:00

The Reeces 2008

Parker and Jackson had to have everything alike
Jackson and Daddy
Jackson and Mommy
Granny, Mamie, Mommy, Jackson and Papa

This past week we traveled to Florida with my grandparents, my great-grandmother, my aunt and her son. It was a fun, and hot, week. Parker, my cousin, and Jackson are just 6 months apart so they enjoyed playing together. I'm posting a few pictures for everyone to see.

Joys of motherhood

2008-06-25T13:39:00.003-05:00

I surprise myself sometimes. This morning for instance...I was brushing my teeth and Jackson HAD to brush his teeth as well. So I rinsed my toothbrush off and let him carry it around. As I was getting ready for work, I looked over and my sweet child was using my toothbrush to clean his feet and I laughed. I wasn't upset, I laughed because it was so cute and funny. Now if someone else were using my toothbrush to clean their feet, I would be furious...but it was funny when he did it.

When I'm all ready for work and he reaches for me with his dirty little hands, I don't mind the crumbs and the icky mess. It washes. It's just sweet that he reaches for me.

I just surprise myself sometimes by the things that no longer bother me. Wiping a child's nose with your shirt, picking boogers, cleaning up poopy diapers...it just comes with the territory.

My girls...

2008-06-24T21:35:00.002-05:00

Sometimes a girl just needs her friends. This weekend, Andrea and Nisha came over and we had some much needed girl time. And it's so funny because when we get together, we don't go out and spend alot of money or go to a bunch of different places, we sit on the back porch, and talk and laugh and sometimes, even cry. It's therapeutic.

I love my girls. They are so important to my life and I am very thankful to have them.

We miss you Daddy!

2008-06-22T20:57:00.001-05:00

Jackson excited!!
Jackson poses for Mommy
We have our NY shirts on Daddy.
I miss you Daddy!!

Corey is in New York this week so we took some pictures to say hello while he's gone. We miss you Daddy!

Jackson and Emily

2008-06-22T20:54:00.001-05:00

Jackson and Emily ride Jon and Angela's horse Mickey. He likes to ride. This was the 2nd weekend in May, 2008.

Corey at his best...

2008-06-22T20:52:00.002-05:00

Corey is probably going to kill me but I think this picture is HILARIOUS! Jackson and I decorated him with all of Jackson's stuffed animals. Corey was a good sport and just sat there and let us have our fun. What a good daddy!!

Jackson's First trip to the Louisville Zoo

2008-06-22T20:45:00.003-05:00

Jackson on an "elephant"
Jackson and Corey in the petting zoo
Jackson at the Louisville Zoo
Jackson and Daddy pointing at the monkeys

Corey and I took Jackson to the Louisville Zoo in Memorial Day weekend, 2008. He had a good time. His favorite part was the monkeys. It was HOT!! And of course, since it was Memorial Day weekend it was packed. Next time we will plan better. :)

Baby stage is over...

2008-06-20T10:39:00.005-05:00

Jackson is growing up so fast. There is a part of me that is so proud of all the things he accomplishes but a part of me is sad that my baby is no longer a baby. Right now, he is all about some tractors. He walks, I mean runs, around the house saying tractor. If we saw a lawn mower, it's a tractor. And nothing will do but a John Deere. I took him to Lowe's to buy something for Corey for Father's Day and sat him on an orange lawn mower. He whined until I sat him on the John Deere and then, and only then, would he "drive" the lawn mower.

He likes to wear sunglasses, as you can see in the picture. And he loves to laugh! He is saying alot of things right now...mama, dada, dog, tractor, truck, car, cat, nana. I just can't get over it.

Yesterday, I took him to the babysitter and a 4 year old little girl was laying on the couch with a dress on and her flowery panties were showing. My son walked over to her with his pinchers and tried to pick the flowers off her panties. I laughed so hard I snorted. He had no clue that he was doing something wrong. It was kind of sweet to be honest.

Corey is in New York and I plan on posting pictures of the little man while he is gone for him to see. He's afraid Jackson will grow a foot while he's gone. It might just happen. He's getting so big. He was sleeping in his bed a few nights ago, all stretched out and I walked in to check on him...he looked HUGE. It tugged at my heart a little bit to realize that this little boy is my baby who only a few short months ago, I was holding in my arms and rocking him. Makes me want to have another one. The baby stage flew by way too fast.

Our life...

2008-06-18T10:35:00.003-05:00

Corey leaves for New York tomorrow. He will be gone for over a week. I'm not crazy about the idea because oddly enough, I've come to depend on him for so many things. He is such a huge help to me with the house and with Jackson. He even does things without me having to ask. :) But mainly because I will miss him. He's my best friend after all and like back in the high school days when bff's were joined at the hip, Corey and I are much the same.

But at the same time, I might enjoy some time alone...that is after my crazy child goes to bed. He has become such the busy-body. He is CONSTANTLY doing something. This morning, I was getting ready for work and I looked around and he was carrying the bathroom trash can around. Thankfully it was empty (last night was trash night). Then he wanted to put his daddy's toothbrush in the toilet. Good thing I stopped him! He has a thing about he toilet right now. The other night he stuck his hand in before I could stop him. I wiped his hand off and then a few minutes later he was feeding Corey a cracker from that same hand. Needless to say, when I told Corey of what happened only a few minutes earlier, he was not too happy. ;)

Life in the Reece house is nothing but boring. But I love it. Jackson is my everything and I have fun with him every day.

Just me again

2008-06-11T15:01:00.003-05:00

30 days until vacation and counting!! I am so excited to be taking my boys to Florida this summer. Yes, both of my boys have never set foot on the golden soars of a beach. So Corey and Jackson will be experiencing the waves and the golden sun for the first time together. How cute is that?!?!

Speaking of Corey, he is such a great provider. He takes care of me and Jackson and makes me feel like a very lucky woman sometimes. If we need something, he takes care of it. Like today, the oil needed to be changed in my vehicle. He picked it up and had the oil changed. To some, that may not seem like a lot but to me, it's a blesssing. I take it for granted sometimes and forget how wonderful he truly is. Thanks for loving me like you do honey! :)

Our trip to Mammoth Cave

2008-06-05T13:51:00.003-05:00

Jackson and Mommy

Jackson and Rachel
Jackson found a stick and was poking everything with it

Yes, he was still long enough to take this picture.

Been a while...

2008-06-05T13:16:00.005-05:00

Jackson wondering why everyone is singing to him

Wow! I haven't posted since March. Needless to say, it's been a busy couple of months. Jackson had his 1st birthday party on March 16. He was so cute. He didn't know what to think about everyone singing to him. It was cute! And of course he got cake all over himself. Precious!

Jackson has grown so much over the past few months. He is now walking VERY well and into everything. That's probably why I haven't posted since March...I've been chasing him. He likes to climb so I'm constantly dragging him down off furniture. And he's figured out that he can push his trucks up to the couch and use them to climb on the big furniture.

He still loves cell phones and he's become quite fond of his Papa. He always reaches for him as soon as he sees him. He can say a few words like "dada", "mama" "oswald"which sounds more like "owaw" but I know what he's saying. He's said "dog" a few times. He knows where his belly is now and likes to raise up his shirt and show everyone. And if you ask him where his hair is, he'll mess it up for you (so we try not to do that right before church.)

He's spoiled rotten but he's mine and I love him more than anything in this world. He is my everything...the reason I get up sometimes...the reason I smile LOTS of days.

I love my little man.

I'm teaching him how to clean early! :)

Snow...oh the memories

2008-03-10T15:12:00.003-05:00

Well, we finally got our big snow for the winter...in MARCH!

It's crazy how things have changed over the years. I remember when I was growing up, it snowed so much we could build igloos, snowmen and create snow angels all day. Now, we do well to have enough snow to track in the house.

I remember those winter days when you woke up and raced to the tv to see if you were out of school for snow. And you'd do the snow dance, so excited that you get to spend an entire day playing in the snow. My sister and I would bundle up and resemble the child on Christmas Story, barely able to move. We grabbed our sleds and ventured outside. We climbed hills we would never normally climb, sled down and climb back up them again. At the end of the day, we would go inside when mom would tell us it was time. By then, our fingers were numb, our cheeks were rosy and nothing sounded better than a roaring fire and a mug of hot chocolate. I miss those days!

Lots and lots to do....

2008-01-31T09:18:00.001-06:00

We have so much going on the next couple of months.

Corey's 25th birthday is Saturday and for the life of me, I have no idea what I want to get him. I'm sure some sort of tool will suffice. A guess like a woman and shoes...a man can never have too many tools.

My birthday is Tuesday. I will be 27. TWENTY-SEVEN!! I am just three years shy of 30. Oh my word! They say with age comes maturity, experience and knowledge. I have the experience part, and maybe even the knowledge part but I'm still working on the maturity. :)

Then comes Valentine's Day. I love that holiday. I know its become commercialized but I still find it completely romantic and I fantasize about all the things my dear husband will do for me on this wonderful holiday. And besides, it's the only day of the year that I get flowers. :)

And then our 2nd wedding anniversary is coming up in March. I cannot believe that we've been married for two years already. We have already been through so much so I cannot imagine what the next few years have in store for us. We have had a baby, built a house, moved, fought, cried, laughed, celebrated, cried some more, fought some more and laughed alot. It's been a rocky road so far but we've made it.

And then the big day is coming...my baby is about to turn one year old!! I can hardly believe it. On March 16, 2008 my little man will be a year old. I am so excited and sad at the same time. My boy is growing up. He has changed so much since the first day I held him in my arms. He has cried and laughed his way into my heart and my life will never be the same. I wouldn't change it for the world.

And then a friend is getting married in April. I have to go pick out my dress this weekend. My big ol' gut in a pretty little pink dress. That's going to be cute. But I am excited about the fact that Corey is going to be in the wedding too and we'll be all dressed up together and we might even get our first dance together. Yes, we have never had our first dance. But maybe...

Normal life...

2008-01-26T13:22:00.000-06:00

Just a normal ol' day at the Reece household. Rachel is here, just hanging out and watching Jackson while I jump into a much needed shower. Corey is working outside...yes, it is bitterly cold outside but that does not deter him from being outside. I have mopped the floors this morning and dusted, two things I do not like to do. And Rachel has helped me clean as well. Thanks Rach!

Mom and Dad and Emily came over for supper last night. That's always a good time. Emily and I partnered against Dad and Corey at pool. We almost beat them but the 8 ball rattled out during my shot and they got the chance to beat us...which they did. Oh well...fun times despite the loss. Jackson showed them how he can ride his little pony. He's getting so big.

I'm beginning the planning for his 1st birthday party. I know, it's a little early but I'm excited. I started thinking about the day he was born. It's a special day.

Just a normal ol' life and it is good.

My little man

2008-01-08T12:07:00.001-06:00

Today I stayed home with Jackson. He ran a high temperature last night and still wasn't 100% today. After lack of sleep and lots of worry, I'm not 100% either. But right now, while Jackson is taking a nap, trying to recover, I keep thinking about how sick he was last night. I held Jackson last night, with his eyes sort of glassy from the fever, and I ached for him. I literally wanted to take his pain from him and heap it on myself. I will admit that I can sometimes be a selfish person but this selflessness that I felt was very rewarding last night. It let me know that I love my child more than I ever thought possible. And to think that I honestly wanted to take his pain away.

I remember when I was pregnant, struggling to get a grasp on the fact that I was about to be a mother, and wondering what kind of parent I was going to be. Will I say the right things? Will I spoil him too much? Will he grow up and be a responsible adult? I never knew how many questions ran through a parents mind until I became one myself.

As you can see from my last entry, I have been overwhelmed with emotion for Jackson lately. He is my world. And he is becoming quite the entertainer. He plays peek-a-boo at dinner time by raising his arms over his head. Yes, he's not quite getting the act of peek-a-boo down pat and yes, he seems to always get a handful of food in his hair...but I wouldn't tell him to stop for anything. It is absolutely adorable. But the moment that really won my heart was Saturday morning. I could hear him talking in the monitor so I knew he was awake. I walked into his room switched on the light. He was standing in his crib, holding onto the side and he said "Mama" like he was so terribly excited to see me. I picked him up and he gave me the biggest kiss. I melted! Moments like those are priceless and I can't wait for the many more to come.

I love my son.

2008-01-06T19:58:00.001-06:00

Look at my sweet baby boy and all those teeth!

I love my son. I love him more and more everyday and he makes my life worth so much more than it was before. I never knew this love until I became a mother. It doesn't even compare to anything I have ever experienced before.

Blessed as always...

2007-12-22T20:06:00.001-06:00

I am blessed. I love my husband who is so good to me and loves me no matter my mood, my faults, my outbursts of depression. I love my child who is sweet and precious and a true blessing. I love my family that loves me no matter my short comings. I love my friends who I turn to when things seem like too much to handle on my own. I am blessed.

Merry Christmas all of you. I hope your Christmas is as blessed as mine has been so far.

The bell

2007-12-10T22:47:00.001-06:00

Today was Monday and boy was it a Monday. The sun was nowhere to be found and the rain seemed determined to keep falling. Puddles were overflowed and creeks became rivers.

Prior to this particular Monday, I had signed up to ring the bell for the Salvation Army. Would I have still done so if I had known that it was going to be such a treacherous day? Probably not. That's why I'm glad that I didn't know.

Today was an eye opener. I stood, ringing that famous Salvation Army bell at Kmart today. There were those that avoided eye contact with me. A woman that I knew passed by me but she didn't know I was standing there because she avoided me and never made eye with the "bell ringer." But what amazed me even more were the people that did give. One woman in particular captured my heart. She had an arm full of stuff and she sat it all down, dug in her pocket and got out some money to place in the kettle. Then she picked all of her stuff back up and walked out in the rain to her car. Did she have to do that? Absolutely not. Did it make her feel better? I don't know. Did it help someone else? Absolutely.

What I didn't understand today was why those that seemed as though they didn't have two dimes to rub together were the ones who gave and those that have more money than they know what to do with walked right past me? I was an annoyance today. I heard that a few times too. "That bell is so annoying!" That bell represents a organization that helps thousands of families over the holiday season and all year long for that matter. It's not an annoyance its a blessing.

Christmas time

2007-12-09T21:42:00.001-06:00

I LOVE LOVE LOVE the Christmas season. The lights. The anticipation. The gift giving. The spirit that fills the air. I could almost explode sometimes with happiness during this holiday season. But some people are not like that and this includes my husband.

I try to understand that Christmas isn't "his thing" but it is so hard for me because I think it's such a joyous time. I love the thought of waking up on Christmas morning and sharing the excitement with my baby boy. I am more excited about my family opening the presents I got them than opening presents myself (although, I can't lie and say I don't like opening presents because I do.) I guess it's just hard for me to realize that some people, for no particular reason, do not like Christmas.

Is it the fact that you have 8 places to go in two days? Is it that Christmas shopping not only drains your bank account but the stores are over crowed? I'm not sure the reason for his dismay regarding Christmas. I've asked and have never gotten a real clear answer. But it's dragging me down and I don't like it. However, he made a promise to try extra hard this year. I just hope he holds to that promise because like I said I LOVE LOVE LOVE Christmas! I look forward to Christmas starting in October and almost get depressed come January when you have to take down all of your decorations. But oh well...such is life.

And for those of you who do have a reason to dread this holiday season, and you know who you are, I love you and I will be praying for you.

Struggle

2007-11-19T23:16:00.000-06:00

Yesterday at church, a lady stood up and spoke about her struggles with learning about God, how she wasn't raised in church and how hard it was for her to find God. Then one day, her neighbor asked her to go to church with her but you had to wear dresses and she didn't own any. So her neighbor let her borrow her daughter's clothes so she could go to church. That's when she learned about God. But she was too embarrassed to go to Sunday School because she couldn't read and the teacher would always make you read scriptures. So as she got older she taught herself to read using a children's bible. She sounded out words, she sat at night and her husband helped her read through the bible and learn God's word. Now, she attends church and so do her children.

I was raised in church. I've been able to read well since I was six years old. I never wanted for anything. So why do I struggle learning about the Lord? Why is so hard for me to give my time to God, the reason I am alive? Why do I always seem to find excuses to say the things I say or do the things that I do? Why is God sometimes on the back burner when He should be the main focus in my life? The answer is quite simple...Satan. Satan is ruling my life right now. Yes, I attend church. Yes, I try to live my life better than ever before. Yes, I try to set a good example for those around me. But I haven't completely devoted myself to the Lord like I should. What's stopping me?

I was just amazed by that ladies testimony in church. She struggled to READ the bible and here I sit, full of knowledge, and I can't seem to find the time to sit down and read the word.

My bible is laying beside me as I type this and I have it open to one of my favorite scriptures Ephesians 3:20 "Now to Him who is able to do exceedingly abundantly above all that we ask or think, according to the power that works in us..." What power and might God has, to do more than we ask or even imagine. He is the reason we are alive. He is the reason we are blessed. He is the reason.

I think I just needed to remind myself of that tonight.

Lucky Mommy

2007-11-13T23:47:00.000-06:00

Jackson is growing up right before my eyes. Two weeks ago, he was just crawling. Last weekend, he pulled up and 3 days ago, he started holding and taking steps. Where does the time go? I feel like I'm blinking and missing things that he is doing. It's so excited but extremely sad all at the same time.

He's learned how to stick his tongue out and make a noise so he's excited about that. Isn't it funny what amuses a child? Funny thing is, I think it's so amusing that I run and get my video camera when he does anything anymore. The night that he took steps holding on to the bed, I was videotaping. What good timing is that?!?!? The first time he rolled over I was videotaping. It's wonderful to be able to re-watch these monumental times in his life.

Being a Mommy is very hard sometimes but so rewarding. Last night, my aunt wanted to let Jackson spend the night with her. She picked him up from the babysitter and he stayed with her for the afternoon. Everything was fine until bedtime. She said he just didn't feel good and kept crying so we met her and picked him up. But when he saw me and Corey, he instantly was a happy camper. That made me feel so good. I hated to see my baby cry and I hated the fact that he didn't get to spend time with his family, but at the same time, it made me feel good that he wanted ME, that he needed me. It's nice to feel needed.

And as I sit here right now, staring down at my sleeping baby laying in the bed beside me, I am instantly overwhelmed with emotion for my beautiful son. He is such a blessing and such a joy to have in my life. He is a wonderful baby and I am truly a lucky mommy.

Girls Trip

2007-11-05T11:13:00.000-06:00

8 women...a cabin...a mall...no men...no children...surrounded by leaves...a hot tub...Enough said!! I just returned from a girls trip to Pigeon Forge. It was so much fun and very much needed. I needed to get away, to relax, to not be anyone's wife for a moment. I sure did miss my baby boy though. (And of course, while I was gone, he started pulling up. Of course!!)

We shopped, we talked but most of all, we laughed. We laughed so much my sides were hurting. Do you know how long its been since I was silly and giddy and laughing like that? It was wonderful.

And I got a lot of Christmas shopping done too...which was the whole point of the trip. I still have a lot more to do, but at least I put a dent in it.

Proud Mommy...

2007-10-25T23:09:00.000-05:00

Guess what? Jackson crawled for the first time tonight. YEAH!!!!! I was so excited. Actually, I got a little teary eyed if you want to know the truth. My baby is on his way out of being a baby. Where did the time go? But I am very excited because we are about to enter a whole new phase...which I'm sure will be fun and scary all at the same time. What a proud momma I am tonight!!

New pics

2007-10-22T23:13:00.000-05:00

Here's a picture of me and Jackson. He's trying his best

to grow up right before my eyes.

Here is Corey and Jackson. He loves his daddy!

Date tonight...

2007-10-20T22:19:00.000-05:00

I took Corey and Jackson out on a date tonight. The boys got all dressed up and we went to "town." It's weird to say what classifies as a date these dates. Just getting out of the house all dressed up is a date to me. (I guess that means every Sunday, when we go to church, is a date.) =) But Corey got all dressed up and shaved for me, which was much needed. But it's nice to get out every now and again. And I enjoyed taking Jackson with us. I always hate getting a babysitter because I feel like I don't get to spend as much time with him as I would like to because I work through the week. The weekend is the time I cherish to spend time with my boys.

Know what we did on our date? We ate at Zaxbys. Went to Walmart. Went to Goodys. And grabbed a movie at Blockbuster.

Speaking of Goodys...did you know that the only type of jeans that they sell there have stretch in them. If you've ever seen me, you know that I have a butt. I need jeans that are going to suck that stuff in...not stretch and let it all hang out. Do they not make clothes for woman with meat on their bones anymore? I swear, the shirts keep getting smaller too. I held up a large the other day and swore that half of the material was missing. I had to get an XL. Do I look like an XL?? (Or maybe I do and I'm just in denial.) =)

Anyway, I must get back to my date night. Corey is taking care of putting little man to bed and getting our movie ready.

My favorite time of the week

2007-10-16T22:19:00.000-05:00

For those of you who are interested, Corey loved my hair! He said it was slimming which was quite possibly the sweetest thing he's ever said to me. :)

What a wonderful husband I have! He's so good to me and Jackson. Tonight, I was doing laundry and Corey had Jackson downstairs with him. I decided to take a break and check on them and when I got downstairs, I couldn't help but smile. There were my two men, cuddled up on the couch, watching Ice Age. Of course, Corey said Jackson picked it out...but I'm having a hard time believing that one. :)

He's just so good with him and to me. And I as I sit here tonight, I just keep thinking about how lucky I am to have so many blessings in my life. And I keep thinking about Saturday mornings...when I hear Jackson waking up and jabbering in his room. I creep in there and I peak over the side of his bed and he smiles and gets soooo excited when he sees Mommy. It starts my day off so perfectly. I grab him up, change his diaper, fix his bottle, and we climb back into bed with Daddy. And then the 3 of us cuddle for about 30 more minutes. That is my FAVORITE time of the week. I can't wait until Saturday. :)

Time for a change

2007-10-15T13:42:00.000-05:00

I decided to make a change. I don't have much control over things that happen in my life and I needed something to "spruce" things up, so to speak. So...I chopped off my hair. Well, someone else did anyway. I actually think it looks cute. It's the first time I've had bangs since high school and I happen to like them. It was so dull and lifeless...kinda like my life these days. Maybe this will make me feel better. Who knows?!?!?

Now all I have to do is see what my husband thinks when I get home and show him. :)

Guestbook @ the bottom

2007-10-15T00:09:00.000-05:00

Make sure you check out my guestbook at the bottom of the page. I would LOVE to see who reads this crazy blog of mine.

Just another day

2007-10-14T15:40:00.001-05:00

This is my Mom and my aunt Christi.
Me and my sweet baby boy

Parker and Jackson hugging

Jackson and Parker still hugging. How sweet!

Today has been a normal ol' day. We went to church this morning...where Jackson wanted to "sing" everytime we sang. And then we came home and all three of us piled up in the bed for an

afternoon nap. That was NICE!

He's getting so big and so FUN! He started eating finger foods this weekend, thanks to Nana...and he loves them. He couldn't get enough at church this morning. And he's wanted to bounce on my legs all morning long.

Yesterday, we were at Ma and Pa's (my great-grandfather's funeral was yesterday). Jackson got to hang out with family members he doesn't get to see enough of. I've included some adorable pictures of him and cousin Parker.

Am I the only one??

2007-10-09T22:31:00.000-05:00

Do you ever have one of those days when everything just seems all wrong? You wake up and things just don't feel right? You talk to people, and everyone rubs you the wrong way? You see people and they just annoy you with their presence? You are at work, doing your job, and someone makes a comment and you want to just walk out and quit? Your husband says something and you take it the wrong way and you're mad at him for the rest of the night...but then after a while you can't remember why you were mad in the first place? You have a dirty house to clean but no energy to get it done and then you think about hiring a maid but realize you don't have any money and then you get tore up because you're broke?

Haha...yep, you guessed it...HORMONES! I swear, this whole being a woman thing sucks! Tell me again why our moods have to be crazy and wishy-washy in order for us to have children??

I just wanted to see if others had crazy days too...or am I the only one??

Great weekend!

2007-10-07T08:32:00.000-05:00

I look at my child and think "how did you get to be so big so fast?" He's 6 1/2 months old and I don't know where the time went. It seems like yesterday that Corey and I were bundling that sweet baby up to take him home for the first time. Did I mention that Corey drove about 35 miles an hour the entire way home? I don't think I've ever seen him drive so cautiously. And then we got him home and I was like "What do I do now?" Your first child...what a joy, what a scary thing! But with the help my wonderful husband, who really stepped it up as father, and with the help of my mom, he is now known as Nana...we made it just fine.

So now, he's 6 1/2 months old and sporting TWO teeth, trying to crawl some, rolling over like a champ, sitting up on his own a little and drinking out of a sippy cup. Like I said, where did the time go?

On another note, I got one of my greatest gifts last night...some friends of ours came to our house to hang out. After venturing to the church's fish-fry and trying to go on their hayride (all the adults were smoking...on a KID'S hayride...how rude! So we didn't end up going b/c smoke was blowing in our faces) we ended up back at the house to decorate pumpkins. Oh the creativeness of a four year old and a two year old! ;) Their mommy grabbed little Jackson up and played with him and it MADE MY NIGHT!! Without going into detail, let's just say that she was in need of some healing and I was more than willing to do anything I could to see that she got just that. (I love you girl!)

So we've had a good weekend so far. My little man is currently laying on the couch with his daddy and I hear him saying "Ma-Ma" so I guess I need to grab him up. :)

Time flies...

2007-09-30T21:37:00.000-05:00

It's been a big week for us at the Reece household. Jackson had his 6 month shots, he crawled, he drank out of a sippy cup for the first time, he sat alone for at least 5 minutes and he HAS HIS FIRST TOOTH! It makes me sad and happy all at the same time. I mean, he's growing up so fast.

One crappy day!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

2007-09-10T21:48:00.000-05:00

Today has been the absolute crappiest of days!!!!

Work--I have only been at my job for about 1 1/2 months now but they assume I know everything so when things don't get done, I get blamed but how in the world was I suppose to know to do them in the first place. And when I ask questions, no one knows the answer. I always get "Well, you'll have to call the lady that use to be in your position..." WHY?? Don't you all know anything?!?!?!? And I know I am a woman, but when you get a bunch of women working together, there is going to be drama. This woman keeps talking about me in the office and talking about me to "customers". Well I may not be the most business savvy person in the world but that's a huge no-no. It makes that person look bad, it makes you look bad and it makes the business look bad. I guess she didn't get that memo.

Then I get an email from a friend stating that I hurt her feelings somehow, for something I wasn't even aware that I did. I mean really, do you know how hard it is to get your child ready in the morning, go to work and deal with that bullcrap, go to class, then come home, get supper together, give baby a bath, change diapers, feed baby, sing to baby, read to baby, clean the house, feed the dog, etc etc. My life is dramatic enough on it's own, I don't needed anyone adding it on the side.

And then I get a phone call saying this person has been talking about me. Are we in the 5th grade?? And we're talking an ADULT here, or a so-called adult. So I called and confronted this woman and she had the audacity to lie to me. I mean, I caught her in a bold-faced lie. But oh well, I shouldn't worry about it, right? It's no skin off my back, right? Wrong! Because this stuff DOES bother me. I let things like this dictate my mood for the rest of the day. I know that's silly of me and I can't predict nor change the way people act and think but I try. I guess that's one of my downfalls. I always try to change things that I cannot change. I need to say the serenity prayer more often.

Praying is just what I have been doing. I've sat in my big comfy chair tonight and just prayed...prayed for God to give me the strength to forgive my two "friends" that have attacked me today. I've asked God to guide me as to what it is I'm suppose to do. I didn't even know what to pray about tonight and that humbled me because I felt so lost at that point. I didn't even know what to say in my prayer. So I just asked God to be with me, to help me, to hold my hand, to lift me up because I was falling and I didn't know what else to do except come to God and give it all to him. If I give it over to Him, then hopefully I can rest assured that something will happen, something will be resolved. That's all I can do now.

Blessed today...

2007-08-27T20:03:00.000-05:00

So today was my first day back in school in about 6 years. And you know what, I loved it. My life has changed so much since I was last in school and I am so different now. But when I sat in that classroom, I wasn't anyone's wife, I wasn't anyone's mother, I wasn't answering a phone call, I wasn't replying to an email...I was me and I was learning and I was thinking again. Which oddly enough, is something that I took for granted. I mean, we all think on a daily basis but how often are our minds tested or stretched at work. We get into such a routine and although our jobs might be taxing and somewhat difficult at times, for the most part we just do the same things every day and it becomes a part of us. Today, for the first time in a long while, I had to think for myself. I was asked a question and without asking someone else their opinion or having lots of distractions to keep me from creating my own, I got to think for myself. It was nice, for a change of pace.

Don't get me wrong though, I'd take being a mom and a wife over going to school ANY DAY. The joy that Jackson brings to my life is so tremendous. There are times, and I hope and pray that all of you know what I'm talking about, when I could just grab Jackson up and just squeeze him and love on him. And there are times, when I am at work, that I literally ache because I am not with him. I just never knew I could love someone so much. I just praise God that I have such a blessing in my life.

Another blessing that I have in my life are my friends. I got a card tonight from a friend that just brought tears to my eyes, saying how much she loved me and how proud she was of me. Oh dear...how lucky I am to have such wonderful friends. I can't tell you how truly blessed I am with the people that are in my life. I know that there a few people that I could call, 24/7 and they would drop whatever they were doing and come help me and I would do the same for them. I take for granted the fact that some people don't have that luxury. I am one of the lucky ones.

And my husband...we have been through some rough times and we've only been married 1 1/2 years but he has grown and has become the man, the husband, the father that I always knew he could be. He has shown me what love truly is. He has given me more than I could ever imagine and he has loved me more than I ever thought I could be loved. There are days, when he comes home and he kisses me, that I just light up inside because I love him so very much. (Although I still have those days where the sight of him makes me mad...and I know, ladies, that you know what I'm talking about.)

I just feel very blessed today and I wanted to share that with all of you.

I'm going back...

2007-08-15T22:32:00.000-05:00

I know everyone is always harping on me about finishing school. Don't wory...I fuss at myself on a daily basis. Anyway, I just wanted to let everyone know that I have an appointment with an advisor tomorrow and even if I only sign up for one class a semester, I am going to finish, no matter what. I should have only 2 more years left, if that. So I am going to bust my butt and get it done.

WKU, here I come! =)

My husband...

2007-08-13T22:42:00.000-05:00

So, if you read my blog, you know that I have been fussing about how marriage is hard and how my husband sucks sometimes...yada yada yada. Well, I feel like a jerk today because this weekend, my husband surprised me with a night away to Cumberland Falls. We packed up our things, dropped Jackson off at his sister's (which was harder than I thought it would be) and got on our way.

It was a pleasant weekend. We walked around and looked at the falls...and let me say "wow!" They are absolutely beautiful. I got plenty of pictures, I think about 100 actually. =) But we had a really good time and it was nice to spend time with Corey, just him, and relax and talk and giggle and just be together. We always have so much going on in our lives and Jackson takes up so much of our time as well, we barely have time for just the two of us anymore. So it was nice to just be able to enjoy each other's company for a change.

But on Sunday, when we were headed back, I wanted my arms around Jackson so bad I couldn't stand it. I never knew I could love someone as much as I love my child. I mean, I always knew I would love my children, but I didn't understand how much until he was born. That moment when he was born, and the doctor laid him on my chest...I just cried tears of joy. I was finally holding my little man and he was all mine. All mine? Well, not exactly because apparently I have to share him with everyone. And at times, that is completely fine because I've held him all day and it's someone else's turn. But there are times, when I haven't seen him very much and by gosh, I want to hold him. And people say "No fair, you get to hold him all the time." But the truth is, I don't. We get up in the morning and he eats breakfast while I'm getting ready. Then we head to the babysitter from 8:30 to 4:30 or 5. Me or Corey pick him up, we eat dinner, he gets a bath, we play for a little bit and then it's bed time by 8:30pm or 9pm. So really, I only get about 3 1/2 hours a night with my son. And on the weekends, there is ALWAYS something going on. We never get to just sit and enjoy him. (Although, last night, we laid him down on a blanket in his room and we read to him. It was so cute! He got so excited about his books. I think I read one of them at least 3 times.)

Anyway, have I mentioned what a wonderful father Corey is?? Yes, he has his faults and yes, there are times when I question my choice in my life partner...but I will NEVER question his love for Jackson nor his abilities as a father. He is without a doubt, one of the most loving, caring and considerate fathers I have ever seen. Sometimes, when he thinks I'm not looking, I'll catch him just staring at Jackson and tears spring to his eyes...I guess for the same reason that tears spring to my eyes when I'm watching him sometimes...we both realize what a marvelous blessing that we have in our lives, what a blessing it is that Jackson is alive, he is healthy and he is smart and laughs and is trying to crawl. There are so many people out there who are struggling, who can't hold their babies, who have daily burdens of taking care of handicapped children and we take that for granted sometimes. I try not to, but it's easy to do.

Ok, I'm not sure how I got from Cumberland Falls to my last topic...but who knows how my mind works!!