A day in the life of Carrie and Scott

Christmas 2011

2012-01-01T23:29:00.001-05:00

Christmas was so much fun this year, helping Tyler decide what he wants from Santa...rocketship/spaceship and an airplane? huh? what kind, how big, how will you play with it, what will it do. Santa was very confused this year. Hoping he got it right with a Stomp Rocket that blasts rockets 100's of feet into the air and an airplane that takes flight...not very well, but still cool. Myla got a new trike and kids size shopping cart from Santa.

We went to Christmas service at 3pm and then spent Christmas Eve at Scott's parents new house. Great turkey dinner, presents, and fun times.

Tyler's favorite present was from Uncle Rob and Aunt Amy and cousins...a Jeep Powerwheel car! It is so awesome and Tyler is getting pretty good behind the wheel!

Amy got crafty this year and made Myla and I some really great canvases! There are pretty neat and one of my favorite gifts this year!
We Skyped with my family in Iowa on Christmas day. Tyler was shy and probably tired, but wanting to play with all his new toys!

Scott spoiled me with many pink boxes :). New undergarment wardrobe!

Scott's mom got me a sewing machine, so once the garage/guest suite is complete I will have a project room! Which is a scary thought, but hoping it will be fun!

Christmas Day Amy made another fabulous meal...with Prime Rib! YUMMY!

Kids were both passed out in the car at 7:30 before we even pulled out to head home!

Rob, Amy and the boys. Great picture!

The newphews!

Sitting down for dinner.

Brother/Sister Love.

Profile Pictures for Moms and Dads.

Grandpa got Myla a bike! Maybe this summer!

My handsome duo with matching ties.

Family Couch shot!

Happy Birthday Tyler!

2011-11-26T00:09:00.001-05:00

Tyler is 4. I feel way more than 4 years older than the day he was born! We have had a crazy last 4 years and have so many memories and pictures of adventures! I am just overflowed with joy Tyler has brought to our life and our family.

We are in Iowa to celebrate, 2 years ago we celbrated here as well. God has really blessed us with 2 wonderful families that all get to share in watching our kids grow up so closely! My mom and grandma helped get the kids and I here for Thanksgiving and Tyler's birthday and it has been so much fun so far!

Today for Tyler's birthday my cousin Jimmy took him bowling....3 games! He also got 2 strikes!!! Then to Cici's for lunch. Then Aunt Jenny took 4 year old pictures outside and they didn't even need me to help! We attempted some Christmas photo's of the kids...only 4 were even remotely useable and those 4 will be our Christmas card this year...kind of comical, it was Grandma's vision.

Then came the highly anticipated Birthday Party! Tyler knew all about what was going to happen, cake and presents! The cake was specially made by Great Grandma Suesy, highly decorated with fish and a #4! He blew out the candle and soon after was ready for presents! After reading one of the cards he really gave a funny face and sincere laugh, something about banana's. Gifts galore were so awesome and so appreciated! Tyler has been looking forward to this day since Myla's birthday 6 months ago...it has been a long countdown, but he has been so patient.

An Iowa and a Georgia magnet!

Before we left for Iowa, Tyler had a birthday party at his school classroom with Krispy Kreme doughnuts as the class treat and also a McDonald's Playland party with his cousins, with cake and ice cream at our house. So many birthday celebrations for Tyler this year and all were so much fun! He is really enjoyed the build up to becoming 4....it's official, today!

Tyler you are so loved, and may God continue to bless you. Thank you Lord for my precious boy!

School and Soccer for Tyler

2011-09-08T22:13:00.001-05:00

It's been an exciting week with Tyler going to school and his first soccer practice. He really loves school and his teacher. He enjoyed his first soccer practice.

The Way Home!

2011-08-08T14:35:00.001-05:00

On the way home from Iowa, we stopped just outside of St.Louis to visit with Marie and Brian Jobe who are family friends. Brian was the pastor at the East Campus before following God's call to a church in St. Peters, MO. It was great to see them and here how God is working in their lives. They live in a beautiful home and have a nice pool in the backyard! We got to enjoy some pool time in the morning to wear the kids out before we set off for our next unknown adventure. They were so hospitable, it was like we've been friends for years. Marie and I talked a lot during my pregnancy with Myla as I was taking hormone shots and trying to figure out if it was God's plan for us. She is so sweet and has such a caring and prayerful heart. It was nice to see Brian's passion for their new church. They are planning a huge event on Sept 11th, I'm praying that it goes smoothly for him and that it's a huge success for God's Kingdom!

We left their house on the road to an unknown destination as we only wanted to drive 5-6 hours and possibly stay at a campsite. We found one on the road...via hot spot internet...how did we ever live without it? It was a nice KOA campsite and they had cabins, floating restaurant, dock, fishing, swimming, putt putt, bike cars, bouncy pad...all fun stuff for kids. We had a blast, this is after a Wal-mart stop to get sheets, food, and drinks. I can see this place being a fun stop in years to come as the kids get older and we have our annual/bi-annual/tri-annual? 3 week road trip across the midwest! While we were there Tyler caught a monster trout off the dock of the restaurant with quite the audience. Everyone was really impressed and called him an angler. When Scott came in and asked "Any questions?" the guy said, "well, if we do, we'll ask him!" It was really funny. At one point someone said they ate Tyler's fish but Tyler said, no he let him go!

After a little putt putt, swimming, and bouncy pad, we headed toward Atlanta to stay with Clete and Jan. Jan made us chicken and broccoli pasta for dinner and we made up Myla and Tyler's bed upstairs. Chloe loved having some friends to play with and Myla LOVED all of Chloe's toys! Thursday we headed into downtown Atlanta all of us piled in the mini van. We let Tyler play in the Centennial fountain for awhile and then waited to watch the music fountain show. It was exactly what I wanted to see. After that we ate lunch at the CNN building and then walked over to The Children's Museum where the kids all had a blast! That night we met Ron for Mexican...a tradition now!

And this brings our trip to a close as we packed the whole van back up and headed home to Savannah! It didn't seem like 3 weeks to us! And when we pulled back into our house we had a brand new carport almost finished! It took me about a week to get everything unpacked and put away and took Tyler about a week of learning to play independently again!

I sure hope we can do this again, and I also hope that we spend a whole summer in Iowa one year! When we visit it always feels like such a whirlwind because I want to spend so much time with so many people. It would be nice to just have some lazy days, more date nights with my parents babysitting, getting away without the kids to sleep in, plus now Johnny and Jenny moved back.

pictures later...does anyone know how to install the slideshow pictures?

Whirlwind Week in Iowa

2011-08-07T21:35:00.009-05:00

Myla pushing Tyler at Iowa :). This is the phrase Tyler used to describe grandma and grandpa's house...Iowa...not they live in Iowa...their house is called Iowa.

Iowa! Oh so good to be home! It was a whirlwind week with activity after activity and visiting family and friends we had a blast! The evening we arrived the kids were so excited to see Grandma and Granddad they didn't want to go to bed! Tyler got presents to open from Grandma, but he reminded her that it wasn't Christmas! LOL! He got a mini dart gun, slip in slide, water colors and paper...etc. Activities for the week...he was pretty excited! Myla was taking steps and showing off, even climbing on top of the kiddie chair! I have a feeling she is going to be my dare devil!

Myla! You don't even know how to walk yet!

Presents...dart guns!

Sunday morning was breakfast at Wimbledon, tradition of Scott cooking breakfast while I watch the mens finals (my mom and grandma were present this year) The first year Scott got roped into this was when we were still dating in 2004, probably trying to impress me and my family! It was a good match and Nadal was upset by Djokovic in 4 sets.

Chris' 50th Birthday party.
Then it was off to the farm to celebrate Aunt Chris' 50th bday. We got to hang out with Perri and Ari, and the two new kittens. Tyler showed off his golfing skills to Uncle Tony and Uncle Chuck. It was a short stay, but with a planned visit to spend the night later in the week! We headed home to get Granddad and then to the I-Cubs game. Myla lasted 1/2 an inning in the stands and then wanted to go practice her walking around the stadium.

I-Cubs game with the grandparents!

Myla at her first baseball game, where she ate her first hot dog!
Tyler had a blast sitting with Grandma, who bought him a boxing I-Cub toy, but kept getting nervous about it getting dark and the fireworks. So Scott semi-volunteered to take the kids back home so I could stay with mom and dad to watch fireworks at the end. At one time the kiss camera was going around and both my dad and I were hoping it wouldn't land on us....scary! Anyways, cool fireworks for 4th of July.

Pancake Breakfast on the 4th!

The next morning Aunt Debbie treated us to a pancake breakfast with Jimmy and Ginny and then the Norwalk parade! It was so much fun seeing Tyler running for candy and sharing candy with the girl next to him...by then end they started getting picky and not picking up the yucky candy...lol! then we were off to the pool for the Echo Pool Party! They had such great activities for Tyler...the blow up rat race was his favorite. He also dove for money in the baby pool...didn't really go under, but it was fun. Myla enjoyed a lot of watermelon...and then Great Grandma helped when Myla went home for naptime. I probably had a little too much fun, I can't believe it had been 6 years since we were back for the 4th!

Fishing with Granddad!
Tuesday my dad and Scott took Tyler fishing and he caught the first fish, love the pictures of Tyler and Granddad fishing together! bonding!

Tyler and Granddad catch count!
Great Grandma then took us to the zoo, Myla only lasted a few exhibits before she broke down and had a screaming temper tantrum because she didn't want to be in the stroller, so I took her home.

Zoo with Grandma Suesy!
Tyler enjoyed the zoo very much, except the special dinosaur exhibit! too real life for him! That night Scott took the kids to Kohl's and I had a girls night with Jill.

Wednesday morning Scott and dad went golfing and the kids and I had a playdate at Jill's with Stacy too.

Playdate at Jill's with Stacy and all the kiddos! Karly, Brooke, John, Charlie, Myla, and Tyler!
The kids played in the kiddie pool and slip n slide...well, not Tyler! And then we were off to spend the night at the farm! We went to Carla and Chuck's friends pool, and then they took us to Tojo's for my birthday present,

Tojo's in Jamaica!
Carla and I split THE famous tenderloin sandwich, and Myla ate her 3rd hot dog in 3 days! That girl loves meat! On the way home, mysteriously Tyler fell asleep...for the night! Myla was a different story but we got to chill on the porch and watch the thousands of lighting bugs in the fields and talk simple talk on simple serenity farm...so peaceful. The next morning I simply ran 4 miles on the bike trail...not really...but it was peaceful!

Swinging at the farm!
Carla made fantastic egg mcmuffins and then we got a blanket and hung out under a shade tree and watched Tyler play with the kittens, golf, and drank homemade lemonade. And then it was time to move on to our next adventure! I went golfing with my dad and shot my first under 100 score of 95! It was so much fun...especially because I was with my dad! After golf we had burgers with mom and dad and then Scott, the kids and I went to see Tricia and her two boys for an hour or so.

Gavin teaching Tyler how to drive.
It was neat seeing her oldest son Gavin teach Tyler how to drive the JEEP! It was really good seeing her!

Friday (is it Friday already?) my mom and I spent the morning shopping garage sales, while we took the van to get the front alignment checked. It's always entertaining to look at other peoples junk...we bought a 30-50lb size life jacket $3, SLOW kids at play sign $3, an egg slicer, and soft cooler on wheels, crocs for Myla, and 3 swimsuits for me, 1 for Myla....it was fun! Cousin Jimmy came and took Tyler fishing for the whole morning! Tyler must of thought he'd died and gone to heaven...lots of fishing this trip....and LOTS of fish, such a difference compared to fishing off our dock! Later that day, the grandparents had the kids all day while Scott and I played golf with Jimmy and then went out to eat at Cosi Cocina's! aHHHH no kids for like 18 hours! I ate WAY too much and was pretty miserable, but it was oh so good!

Saturday my mom and I played golf with her friends, I shot ok...a 99! woohoo! then we went to LaPizza House...Scott went out with Jimmy to a Iowa Barnstormers Arena football game,

Swimming at Echo, seeing Aunt Debbie at work :)
my mom and I took the kids to the pool and saw Aunt Debbie...it for just an hour but it was peaceful and wore the kids out! That night I read my book (pretty much the first time since the trip started!).

Sunday morning we went to church with Aunt Debbie and Jimmy and Ginny cooked us waffles and eggs for breakfast. They got Myla some new jammies for her birthday...that are so so cute and were much needed! I spent the afternoon with Jill again and helped her take pictures of her house to sell, she's going through a divorce and it's tough being away from her when she is going through such a hard time.

Headed down to Grandma Suesy's house!
Sunday night my grandma made us dinner at her place and of course it involved Iowa Sweet Corn! Scott couldn't get enough! Grandma showed her great grand children off to all of her neighbors...they were all so sweet and loving. Myla pushed Tyler on the little push toy and they all thought that was pretty funny! My Aunt Karen also made dinner, so we pretty much got to see all my family and spend some quality time with everyone while we were back!

Monday began the daunting task of packing and fitting everything back into the van...wow, we tore up my parents house...things were everywhere, but looking back I'm glad i didn't waste precious moments because I was always organizing our stuff. It just made packing that much more overwhelming! And of course I was sad to be leaving, it seemed we just got there. I look forward to a time where we can spend and month or two there without the hustle and bustle. Maybe summers in Iowa? With Scott's job, that is a possibility, he had more transactions in his office than anyone...by like 8 and he wasn't even in Savannah!

Anyways, we left around 1 and headed onto our next stop in St. Louis!

Road Trip Continued...4 more stops :)

2011-07-02T14:28:00.014-05:00

Fish at Elisa and Greg's...it was like 2 inches...trick photography.

We rolled into Cinci around 7:45pm and met Greg and Elisa at a Mexican Restaurant for dinner. It was so good to see them and here how they are doing. Dinner was crazy, as it always is with the kids but we got through. Once we got back to their house Elisa gave Tyler a new Cars watch and Myla a mini Pillow pet dolphin. Tyler LOVED playing with Elisa, airplane and tickling. Elisa is so good with kids! It melts my heart to see her love on mine :). They both had to work the next morning, so we hung around and fished in their complexes catch and release pond and then we packed up and headed out to Aunt Cris and Uncle Jeff's!

Next Stop: Spencerville.

First stop rolling into town was Kuwpee! Tyler was so excited to get to Aunt Cris's that he wouldn't let us eat inside. We got to see their new house! It is really beautiful and very well built, the grass and the yard was perfect for some practice golf! Tyler really enjoyed playing with real golf balls and clubs, hitting them towards the field.
Matt let Scott and Tyler take a ride on the four wheeler, I'm a little surprised at Scott. Tyler wanted to swing on Jeremy's new swing set, so we headed over to Grandma's and hung out under the shade tree. Jeremy showed us all he has done with the house, everything looked really nice. After everyone got off work we all met at Packer's for dinner. Both Tyler and Myla had anxiety attacks with all the new people. It took awhile, but by the end they were having a great time with the cousins. It was great seeing Aunt Wilma and Uncle Duane (Duane was the hero with Tyler and brought out skeeball game on his phone!). Misty and Adam did their best with Myla. Raven tried so hard to be nice to Tyler, but all Tyler did was kick her :(. Josh and Angel and their sweet boys were there and they were teaching Tyler new tricks and all the kids were running around having a blast. It was a perfect warm up to Thursday nights grill out (bbq). Myla fell asleep on the way home and she slept in Halle's crib, Tyler stayed up and showed Tanner and Hunter how to hit a golf ball. I'm sure we kept Jeff and Cris up way too late, but we had so much fun hanging out. Thursday we went to WApackeneta to go swimming with Angel and the boys. We showed up at 11, but weren't allowed in until 12, it was adults only from 10-12. So we headed to McD's for lunch first :). The pool was really nice and really cold! The water was freezing! Not like Savannah's bath water! There was a whole zero entry side for Myla, but we spent most of the time in the deeper pool in the floaties.

Pool Funtime.
Myla was a constant motor boat and I pulled Tyler along in a train. Every so often they would blow the whistles and make all the kids aged 6-18 get out for 15 minutes of adult and baby time. It was really nice not having a bunch of crazy hyped up kids all around. We stayed until about 2,

Passed out with sucker in mouth.
Myla fell asleep on the way home with a sucker in her mouth! I decided it would be a good time for a run...so I ran what Uncle Jeff later called the 3K run, with only 1 participant. Uncle Jeff took Tyler fishing and they did catch one and one got away at the last second. They had a blast.

Farm Family Picture. (Not photoshopped at all :)).

Everyone came over to the farm and we were treated to a fabulous cookout and Jeremy and his girlfriend wandered over from Grandma's house with their daughters. The kids had a blast with a water balloon fight Water Balloon Assembly Line
(i filled up the first 100 or so, with quite the assembly line of helpers). And lots of golf, tennis, bubbles, a colorful fire.

Kids table...cookout Thursday night.
We stayed up late again, Tyler too! In the morning we packed up and headed in town to Waffle house with Josh, Angel, kids, Matt, and Halle. It was a good send off, kids acting the usual. And then we were off to Michigan.

Made it to Michigan. Wagon.

It was fun telling Tyler where we were going each short trip, no, not Iowa yet, this time it's Michigan to the Barn. Then we looked at all the barns on the way. So much fun. We also saw a few Amish families and they had little girls in their homemade long dresses...so cute. Mainly we saw the men in there horse drawn carriages.

When we got to Uncle Leonard's the first thing Tyler wanted to do was fish. So that's what we did, pretty much before we ever went inside! Tyler had them golfing, playing basketball, fishing..etc. I'm pretty sure we got there around 3:15 and it stayed 3:15 the whole time we were there...that was weird! It's the only clock I saw in the house. Anyways, they are always such a delight and the house is filled with laughter all the time. Such a great example on how to keep a fun marriage! We ordered pizza, bread sticks and chocolate sticks for dinner...yummy! Right before dinner Tyler fell asleep on Debbie's lap watching a movie. We woke him up with the word, pizza :). They took us on a Gator adventure around the acreage before I was able to get Myla to bed at 7:30pm! We hung out in the living room talking, skyping, printing (Scott hooked up their new wireless printer, did the same thing for Uncle John). I got a huge night sleep, the kids slept until 8:30 this morning! It's Aunt Debbie's Birthday, either 40th or 50th or something close! We had a fantastic breakfast thanks to Uncle Leonard whipping up some farm fresh scrambled eggs, some ewwy gooey hot Cinnamon rolls, and crispy bacon. Yum! I love breakfast! Tyler kept begging for more golf and fishing, then it was getting hot, so we took a dip in their freezing pool.

Family shot at Uncle Leonard's and Aunt Debbie's.

Swimming with Aunt Debbie.

Myla couldn't get used to it, but Tyler had a blast playing with Aunt Debbie. I just was amazed with the energy she had with Tyler, wore me out just watching her! After we saw the bill for our stay, we took off in the car as fast as we could...we heard Scott's parents would be there soon, hopefully they will cover the balance :).

And now we are headed to Iowa City. The kids have napped and we have a little over an hour to go before we stop to stretch our legs and have a bite to eat. And see where Steff and Chris and their two boys live, I've never been to their home in Iowa City. Everything is going smoother than I ever could have imagined! We are having a blast and the pictures and this blog will hopefully bring back many memories for years to come!

Road Trip days 1-3

2011-06-28T16:19:00.006-05:00

After we finally got out of Savannah, after church we had to head back to house and button up a few things, no real rush though anyways, so not a big deal. We were off and we landed at Stone Mountain right on time to meet Ron there at 6pm! We purchased some train tickets and headed to the train station to ride the train around the whole mountain. Both Tyler and Myla were so good and enjoyed the ride and maybe just NOT being in carseats for once. There were a few moments that I was concerned about Myla sticking her face and hands out the train railings, but she looked so cute with her little hairs blowing in the wind and being so happy. The storm clouds were rolling in and we were so smart to jump on the train first thing, because I think it was the last train ride for the night because as we sat down to eat the sky fell out and it poured! We were under an awning of course and devoured a whole pepperoni pizza, fruit cup, and I got a chocolate pudding parfait (for my birthday, yes, they sang for me too :)). Soon the rain let up and we were wondering if the laser light show would be canceled, everyone that worked in the park so NO, they won't cancel the light show. So we headed over to find our spot on the grassy lawn. Music was playing, Tyler got a glow in the dark sword, Myla walked her stroller for like 2 miles in a circle! Finally, after a dozen advertisements the light show started with fireworks of course and Tyler got scared, but not as scared as usual. He sat in daddy's lap and Myla in mommy's. The show was revamped recently and was in 3D, it was so cool, they used the carving several times and shadows, rock and dust falling off the side of the mountain as they carved it out, the whole horse coming out and running with the confederate soldiers on. They played a bunch of GA themed songs and songs by artist who were from GA. Of course they played The Devil went to GA, and also the star spangled banner. It was really neat and the perfect Birthday celebration for me on my birthday. Myla fell asleep during the show, Tyler on the contrary stayed up til 1am once we got to Ron's house.

The next morning (after no sleep) we headed to TN. Once we got there, Tyler was ready to play outside and he golfed and showed off his swing to Uncle John and Aunt Rose. Aunt Rose gave me a tour of the house, which was so perfect for them. We ate an early lunch for them...they are 15 miles west of the central eastern time cut off, so it was only 10:30am their time when we got there, but 11:30 to us :). Scott and Uncle John headed out to golf, Tyler was upset until the miracle worker Rose stepped up, changed his mind and entertained him outside, even seeing daddy go by on hole number 4, and wore him out to a sleepy slumber. Myla and I were passed out in the bedroom for like 3 hours! When I woke up I thought for sure something bad had happened to Rose and Tyler because I never heard them! The boys got rained out with a big thunderstorm and only played 13 holes, but seemed to have a good time. Aunt Rose spoiled us with a huge Pot Roast dinner and it was delicious!

We walked down to the golf course and Uncle John brought out the money toy, a fishing pole for Tyler! Myla crawled around and Tyler fished and then we came in to wash up and put the kids down for bed...and then we followed soon after.
Tuesday was my turn to play golf and it was raining...but we went anyways, i was determined! It rained pretty steady for the first 6 holes and then let up. It was not good golf on my part, at one time the club slipped out of my hands luckily on the downswing! John played good and we had a good time. While we were golfing Scott and Aunt Rose took the kids to an indoor swimming pool to tire the kids out for our next big drive. (It worked for Myla, she's been sleeping almost 3 hours now...I think maybe 4 with the time change??) Anyways, we had leftover pot roast for lunch (yummy) and then packed up and now we are headed to Cincinnati to stay with some old Savannah Small Group friends, Elisa and Greg! So excited!

My Anniversary and Birthday presents...

2011-06-27T06:02:00.003-05:00

June 18th was our 6th Anniversary! Wow, life is good. I am blessed to have such an amazing husband and daddy to our kids. Our family feels complete with Tyler and Myla and I have never felt more joy and peace in life! As the weaning process continues, one of my wishes this year was to have a night (or two) out somewhere, by myself, to do whatever I want, when I want...mainly read, nap, get some sun, sleep consecutive hours (amount to be determined). I haven't received that gift yet, but it will happen. Not at a hotel, or a spa, just somewhere other than home with kids and housework.

And then, yesterday I turned 31. Happy Birthday to me :).

Anyways, other happenings around our house constitute some more wishes come true. We are sealing up our house and painting the outside. Caulking and replacing rotten eves has never felt so good! We also had 5 pine trees cut down, one being the biggest Savannah Pine that they've ever seen or cut down!

The trunk was the size of a kitchen table. It was really amazing watching them so high up in the air. They surely don't get paid enough! We are also making plans to close in our rickety old carport next to our shed. If that happens, Scott's office will move out there and we will have covered shelter for bikes, strollers, toys, etc. And I'm sure all of our neighbors will be excited not to see our junk! We ALSO had a guy give us a quote to add onto the back of our house, adding an upstairs bonus room, guest bedroom and living area. Trying not to get my hopes up, but a bonus room would really be a dream come true...a place for all the toys!

The biggest and best birthday present is what I'm currently experiencing. Only one day into a THREE week family vacation trek across the Midwest to see family and friends! Here is the plan: Kick off in Atlanta hanging out at Stone Mountain with Ron. Going on a train ride and seeing the laser light show. Then heading to TN to stay with Uncle John and Aunt Rose on June 27th to play a round of golf, headed to OH, possibly seeing friends Elisa and Greg on June 28th and then getting in late staying with Aunt Cris and Uncle Jeff for 2-3 nights, headed to MI on July 1st and staying with Uncle Leonard and Aunt Deb at the Antique Barn, headed to IA on July 2nd stopping to visit cousin Steffanie and headed on to my parents house. We will be in IA for a week leaving on July 11th for St Louis, staying with Brian and Marie Jobe, headed to ATL with a possible overnight stop in Nashville (at least an activity...any ideas?). We'll be staying in ATL 1-2 nights with Jan and Clete and then headed back home to Savannah. WOW this is going to be an adventure with a one year old and 3 1/2 year old!

Plans are all flexible and the BLOG plan is to update every few days with the happenings! Tyler is really starting to be excited about things and remembering things. We just left Atlanta and are headed to the mountains of Tennessee!

Bathtime Comparisons...

2011-06-12T23:56:00.001-05:00

JUNE

2011-06-12T23:07:00.003-05:00

June is full of birthday's and anniversaries. I have to keep on my toes! We have 3 birthdays, our anniversary and father's day.

Aunt Cris and Uncle Jeff came to visit us so we've spent the last 3 nights hanging out with them. Cookout Saturday night and The Shell House and frozen treats at our house tonight. Tyler said after everyone left, "I don't want my friends to leave." We keep telling him they are family and cousins, but friends works too I guess.

I hosted my first bunco party here Friday night, there will be new rules next year for people NOT participating in the theme. Amy subbed for me and was the only other one in a bathing suit/cover up! I got a bunch of Beach themed prizes and everyone seemed to have a good time. I'm not the most graceful host so it wasn't perfect. Maybe one day when I don't have kids I'll do better. Amy saved me by coming early and helping me with dinner!

I am in the process of weaning Myla and down to 2-3 feedings only between 8pm and 7am and no feedings during the day, she drinks organic whole milk (something I feel is best for my little girl). She is also getting here 2nd molar on top and is quite screamy! She screams all the time! And this usually makes Tyler scream too, yes, I may go crazy before this is all over!

Tyler finished a week long run of semi-private swimming lessons Friday. He did so good going under water, which he doesn't really like, and kicking. He even stayed under for starfish, starfish, starfish! He looks so cute in his goggles. I hope by the end of the summer he thinks it's more fun to go under water and kick and swim. Myla really loves the water...and it really good at going underwater for a dip. She also likes sitting on the side and leaning into me, going under, and crawling out of the side. She likes playing on the steps with toys too.

Jenny took her 1 year pictures in the last few weeks and they turned out really great. We took them at The Botanical Garden in Savannah. Even though she wasn't really in the mood Jenny captured some really precious shots of her and once again it's tough for me to decide which ones to order.

It's official, Scott is no longer a Real Estate Agent...........he is a licensed Broker! I am so proud of him, he passed both the class test and state exam without cracking a book! He's just been so busy, but he has so much experience and knowledge that it just comes natural to him. I love seeing him so passionate about his work!

We are getting our house painted and sealed, yes we are painting the brick and so far it looks really great. Scott picked out the colors and we got approval from family so far on how it looks. Can't wait to post pictures...still need to do a post about taking out 5 HUGE pine trees out of our yard!

There is so much happening here and taking care of 2 little ones, it is quite exhausting but exciting all in all. I love our family and am blessed beyond all measure! Praise the Lord!

Myla's 1 year appointment

2011-05-27T13:50:00.002-05:00

Myla SCREAMED the whole time Dr. Stone was in the room. Flashback to when Tyler used to SCREAM as soon as he would walk in the room. He is the most gentle soft spoken man and he terrifies my kids. Anyways, the day finally came when he called Tyler, Ty and Myla My. My and Ty. He is the only person that has ever really called Tyler, Ty and I just knew he would do it to Myla and today was that day! I think it's pretty funny considering I tried hard not to have names that could be nicknames, but I did realize that eventually people would call Tyler, Ty but not 'til high school. Anyways, needed to point that out for records sake :).

After she screamed the whole time the Dr. was in the room, she then got her finger pricked for lead and 3 shots, then a sucker...and was fine. She really has some stranger anxiety right now, especially with men...even with uncle johne and uncle rob. She is 24.7 pounds and 32.75 inches. She has leveled off on her weight still in 91st percentile and still way off the charts in height. Dr. Stone said top 10 of ALL baby girls he has seen in her height. Her leg has been bothering her for 3 days, but the Dr. couldn't really look at it because she was in a total fit. He ordered a full leg x-ray only if we get nervous over the weekend and want to go and get it scanned. But I think it's on the mend because today she is grabbing my hands and wanting me to walk her around. He didn't seem too concerned about it though.

Both kids are sleeping and it's raining...blessings for the day. Off to read a bit.

Myla is ONE!

2011-05-18T20:47:00.006-05:00

My handmade sign! colored at a 45 degree angle with crayons...except the dot on the !.

It seems that we celebrated Myla's birthday for days. We scheduled her party for May 14th so that Uncle Johne and Aunt Jenny could attend because they were headed to Iowa for a wedding the weekend after her birthday. That week, Mother's Day weekend, Tyler started the spread a fierce stomach bug. First Tyler, then Myla, then me, and then Scott. Then I thought I was on the mend, went ahead with planning and cleaning for the party. ALL the way til midnight Friday night finishing the cake. Couldn't sleep, felt uneasy, and then it began all again! Both Scott and I. It was terrible and I knew we had to cancel the party. Tyler was at Scott's parents so it was just Myla, Scott and I to recover on Myla's party day. Since we didn't know when we would reschedule we decided to give Myla her cake and let her mash her smash cake. It was quite a special intimate moment with just mommy, daddy, and baby turned 1!

My cake I made for her, it was supposed to be a flower, but being too cheap to buy a cake mold I tried to do it myself using oversize cupcakes. It was fun and good memories as my mom and I made tyler's Lion cake for his birthday. Getting the 2nd ice cream cake from Publix was sooooo much easier!

Playdate Birthday fun!

Finally, starting to feel better we planned to make up Tuesday, but splitting up the babies and the family. It worked out perfectly and was God's perfect plan anyway! The night before Scott and I decorated the house with streamers and my big cut out sign. She had 4 of her other 1 year friends over, we celebrated with Pizza, playtime, and rice crispy's and gifts. Then after Tyler's swim lesson we picked up the pulled pork and bbq sauce and celebrated with Scott's family. Scott picked up the Publix ice cream cake and another smash cake for Myla. I think she was starting to get sugared out! We had a nice time and even played little games and most participated and had fun with it! Uncle Rob won all three of the games, game hog! Guess Myla's weight, guess her height in inches, and the person to get the most correct guessing Myla's age in 13 videos in random order! Myla got some fantastic gifts including 2 dresses, a pink beach wagon, storybook, stacking cups and rings, a play camera, a cute outfit from Aunt Jenny, a cute sesame street purse with a coin purse and huge lipstick, watertable, my little pony, unicorn pillow pet mailed from Aunt Debbie in Iowa, and a helmet from Great Grandma Suesy. We all had such a fun time and selfishly great memories for me. I really loved celebrating my baby turning 1. It's a good age and I'm thankful for surving with two so far! Birthday Present Madness!

Finally a picture of Myla with her grandma and grandpa!

Smash cake Tuesday night!

Cousin James showing Myla her purse they got her!

Playing with the watertable.

Easter 2011

2011-04-25T15:58:00.003-05:00

The Whole Shippy Family...finally a good group picture!

Myla and I matching on Easter...a dream come true!

Saturday night we went to East Campus service with Scott's family and after we went to Denny's with Scott's parents. Sunday we went over to Rob and Amy's for a Low Country Crab boil, Easter Egg Hunt and my favorite...the last few holes of a golf tournament. (an exciting sudden death!)

to catch up....

2011-04-22T20:13:00.003-05:00

these are just going to be random thoughts jotted down.......

Myla is working on her first molar=equals no consecutive hours of sleep for mommy.

Tyler calls Scott and I MODDY...a mix in between mommy and daddy. sometimes he doesn't know who he is whining to.

We dedicated Myla on March 19th at Savannah Christian Church. Both Scott's parents and Rob and Amy had other plans and only Johne and Jenny were actually there...how ironic? Anyways, Uncle Greg and Aunt Norma came, but missed the ceremony because it was the very first thing, even before singing! We invited everyone over for dinner after, we got Season's of Japan...yummy! And Myla got to wear the baptism type of dress...it was very pretty. I just pray that Scott and I can raise her the way God wants us too and that He will guide us.

Myla is cruising along and getting more and more confident on those feet. (still cruising as of June 12th!)

We are having her 1st birthday party on May 14th from 12-2...let the planning begin! Plus I have to complete her baby book and work on a 1st year video!

Swimming lessons start in May for both Tyler and Myla!

Scott sold the Ford Escape Hybrid...after 3 years and LOTS of miles. I figured it out, it cost us $198 a month...now to find a new car...a honda odyssey for me w/dvd hopefully and a fuel efficient car for Scott with all his driving around with Real Estate.

Facebook...to stay on or not? trying to keep a secure login...and really want to scale back the friends...how to do that without hurting people's feelings. Probably should make this blog private too.

We are loving our Sunday School Class/small group.

and she's crawling...

2011-03-06T13:02:00.001-05:00

Myla TOOTH!!! Tyler Dentist Appt

2011-02-26T17:51:00.007-05:00

She has a top tooth! and the bottom one is starting to break though too! At her 9 month appointment she was 23 lbs at 97% (dropped back onto the chart!) and her height still skyrocketing off the chart at 31"! At Tyler's 9 month appointment he was 30" and 24. lbs.

Tyler went to his first dentist appointment! he did so good! I will post a picture as soon as I learn how to get it off my phone? All was A-OK. wow all that hard work of making him brush his teeth and doing it for him is paying off so far...but man i can't even get myself to brush my teeth...ick, i know...it's just not my thing, unlike Scott who brushes his teeth 5 times a day it seems!

I finally finished my Christmas blog, but thought I'd catch up on some other happenings in 2011. My dad made his annual trip down here in January. It was the best trip yet. He was so willing and offering to watch the kids (all by himself!). Scott and I got to go play 9 holes of golf one afternoon and had a date night Saturday night (we went to church and dinner). My dad said he made the mistake of telling Tyler that we went to Church and he had quite a fit that we went without him! Dad had to send him to our room to cry it out because Myla was sleeping. We never would have known because when we walked in tyler was on top of granddad's head climbing over the couch and Myla was on granddad's lap just laughing away. it was priceless. it will be in my memories forever! I love it when we have visitors from my side of the family because it's perfect excuse for JJ and us to plan out an actual week and we get to see them practically every day! I love setting up the itinerary, making dinners, watching shows, playing with the kids...etc. So please come visit us more....before JJ leave us and head back to the midwest!!! They have their house on the market and from what I read have buried Saint Joseph in their yard...so it shouldn't be too long before they are out of here. I am most sad for Tyler's sake, he LOVES spending playdates with his Aunt Jenny and is looking forward to growing big enough that he can go golfing with Uncle Johne (as I did last week with Johne). Johne and I have set up Wed golf and I am getting babysitters so I can walk 9 holes with him, hoping to work up to playing 18 with him, but man I was tired after walking 9 the other day. the weather has been great and it isn't even March yet! Myla is getting her 9 month pictures done this week...so hopefully they will at least be here in May still to get her 1 year pics done and then we'll have to work out her 2 year pics somehow. But I am so grateful for all these pictures I get of my kids...they change so much in their first year it's crazy!

I'm still plugging away at home...man it's an exhausting but so rewarding! I love being with the kids and just knowing that I am with them and am here for them. Scott has been working a lot of crazy hours and sometimes takes calls and works at night so it's good that I am pretty stable...unless I plan a girls thing out! Scott is only doing Real Estate stuff as of today pretty much! He resigned, more or less, from his medical sales job. Here's to taking a leap of faith, trusting God to provide for all of our means. What I'm most thankful of all is that Scott can go full force 100% with his passion! We purchased an individual insurance plan for medical, the premium low enough that I didn't have to go back to work, that may change one day, but I trust this is where God wants me and we'll make up the rest later. Scott is amazing at Real Estate and has learned so much and has great investor clients and I know he'll get so much more. I am so excited for him I can't stand it. I love him so much and am so proud of him! This is an answer to prayer and God's timing is perfect!

Cousins Christmas

2011-01-31T14:03:00.014-05:00

Christmas...yes, I know it's almost Feb (now Mar.). I wish I knew how to just get on here down load a pic or two and write a quick blog and get off...it doesn't happen...it always takes an hour or so. So, here I go with another monster blog about our Christmas 2010 and Iowa trip:

It seemed as if our Christmas was never going to end...we started on Dec. 22nd with Early Christmas Eve at Scott's parents house. I am so thankful that Scott's family is so understanding and willing to accommodate us going to Iowa every other year for Christmas. I really liked the way it played out because we also got to have a real Christmas at our house on the 23rd just our family (Scott's parents joined us for breakfast too). We had a nice turkey dinner on the 22nd and opened a crazy amount of gifts from everyone and gave our gifts as well. It was really fun watching tyler open not only for him but for Myla too! Since Johne and Jenny weren't coming home to Iowa again this year for Christmas we had them join us too. It was really special for me to share a Christmas Eve with them too! Presents included tools and clothes for Scott, dishes and clothes and socks for me, all weather corntoss for myla and Tyler and lots of toys and babies for myla, cars and fishing games for Tyler. we had a blast.

Christmas morning (Sav) Tyler got a Thomas shaky bridge train set and myla got a ball popper toy. His face when he saw that Santa came was priceless, of course he went right to myla's toy first...go figure! We had breakfast with grandma and grandpa and then opened a few more gifts. Scott got lots of clothes and a special pillow (handmade from me:)). I got a new laptop (typing on right now) and a kitchen technology center...a TV in the kitchen to watch the news while Tyler watches his cartoons, this I think was from Tyler :). Tyler also painted me some pictures for Christmas. After all that fun was over we packed up and headed to Atlanta to spend the night at a hotel and catch a plane to Iowa for the rest of Christmas.

Everything worked out perfectly and we landed in Iowa around 11am for Christmas Eve celebration at my moms house with all the cousins! Our first mistake was putting Tyler down for a nap...he woke up on the wrong side of the bed and there were lots of people in the house and had quite an anxiety meltdown. but finally things calmed down after about an hour and pictures were taken. Tyler's cousin Lindsay sang me Santa's coming to town! She is only 4 months older than Tyler! I was impressed! Lindsay has a new baby sister Casey that was born on Tyler's birthday. Arianna was there and we were determined to get a picture of all the cousins in there Christmas attire...and they looked so cute! We did a cousins gift exchange (oldest to youngest...for the record) starting with Lindsay. And the rest of the night the kids played hide and seek (hiding in the same spot every time under the table). and throw up...yep...they threw up their stuffed animals all the way to the ceiling fan over and over again. After all the excitement I thought for sure we wouldn't play our annual Trivial Pursuit game....but the Adults rallied and we played! the kids even did some rolling. the guys won in quite a fast game...but it was the highlight of my Christmas Eve to play!

Christmas morning was even more fun with Tyler continuing to open gift after gift after gift. He also opened Myla's too!

the rest of the week was planned for more cousins events. Ice Skating with the grandma's, pool fun at Adventureland indoor hotel pool, New Years Eve at Aunt Chris's. Chris and Carla took all three kids to Jordan Creek soft play...yay for Maria and I! We celebrated New Years a little early somewhere between 8-8:15pm! Complete with pictures, horns, and hats! Since Scott was already back in Savannah and I still had quite a few babysitters I snuck away twice to see a movie: True Grit with my mom while Uncle Jimmy and Ginny babysat Tyler and Grandma babysat Myla AND Little Fockers with my grandma while my parents babysat. It was a great time in Iowa and Tyler really loved hanging out with Ernie and all the family.

Lindsay and Tyler-Pool Slide at Adventureland Hotel.

Relief from Ice Skating adventure with the grandma's.

Christmas morning robe!

Tyler's new buddy, Ernie.

Myla's bathtime at grandma and granddad's.

Ice Skating Adventure...Aunt Carla, Lindsay's grandma and tyler and grandma.

The famous hiding spot.

Grandma time in the morning.

Granddad time...napping.

Reading with Granddad.

Playing with new trainsets....lots of track!

SNOW in Iowa, playing with Gavin at his house in his snow suit we borrowed.

We made our trip to Aunt Debbie's school and had recess and ate lunch with her class. They all were so nice and loved the kids!

Myla in her winter gear watching Tyler play at recess.

Christmas morning with Uncle Jimmy and Ginny.

One shot of the cousins...my camera didn't have the best shot.

Playing together Christmas morning.

Christmas morning in Savannah with Scott's parents.

Savannah Christmas Eve with JJ there!

Christmas Eve in Savannah and my homeade stocking from Scott's mom!

Mom and Grandma's visit re-cap

2010-12-13T17:14:00.003-05:00

We had a great time with my mom and grandma here for thanksgiving week and Tyler's birthday. I made my infamous itinerary to make sure we had a plan for each day...a flexible itinerary that can be moved and adjusted as seems fit for 2 kids and 2 grandma and an aunt and uncle that work really crazy retail hours. Anyways, our week went a little like this:

Saturday after 1 wrong turn mom and grandma arrive around 11pm to our house. My mom decides to crash on our couch, however according to the itinerary she was supposed to stay at JJ's house.

Sunday morning mom and grandma forgot to feed Tyler breakfast and then met us for the 11am church service at SCC (with Tyler...they didn't forget him, but barely got him dressed :). After church we met Jenny at Pita Pit for a to go order before mom and Jenny headed to the Christmas in the South craft show. The rest of us stayed back and relaxed while Scott did some work. Mom cooked up some chipped beef gravy and Mom and Dad Shippy joined us for the gourmet cooking!

Monday's we found out is not a good day to go to Wormsloe (it's closed) so after some adjusting on Johne's day off we started and complete the 1st stage of a turkey pinata, had veg soup and corn bread for lunch and then took Myla to get her shots and headed to the grocery store for our meal plan for the week. When we got home we had to re-complete stage 1 of the pinata...the balloon popped out in the sun...oops. But we salvaged it! That night we had tacos at JJ's, I opted out for steak fajitas...every since Myla it's hard for me to eat ground beef ? And Tyler had a slumber party with Grandma A at JJ's...finally crashing after 11pm...Grandma exhausted!

Tuesday we let the pinata dry even more, we had a guest over for brunch and made pine cone bird feeders. What a blast that was, Tyler really enjoyed it and Greatma and Mrs. Wardlaw made their first pine cone bird feeder as well! Johne and Mom then went off to Wormsloe for the afternoon. With a babysitter resting at home I went out to do some shopping (the goal was to get all the IA gifts completed so mom and grandma could be FREE shipping!). Johne, Tyler, Scott, and Grandma A went to crab shack for dinner while Greatma, Myla, and I stayed home, had chili for dinner. Somewhere in there I finished a second coat of turkey pinata with a string wrapped around to hang it.

Wednesday Tyler played outside, Greatma took Myla for a walk while Tyler rode his bike, I finished step 2 of the pinata and baked a few cakes...tonight is decorating the pinata. We went to the mall and had lunch with Aunt Jenny at the food court, played at soft play and after naps we headed out to Bass Pro Shop for FREE pictures with Santa Clause. Both Tyler and Myla did really well and they let us take 3 pictures! We went back to our house for pizza and salad! My mom and I were up til 12 decorating the pinata and had a blast! It turned out so good...at 10pm we realized we didn't have any glue...but our handy neighbors were up and willing to share!

Thursday: Happy Thanksgiving! Happy Birthday Tyler! We started off the morning with donuts and Black Friday Ad shopping at JJ's. then headed to Rob and Amy's house for Thanksgiving dinner (I made the ham at Mom Shippy's) and had Tyler's Birthday Party(see previous post)! After a long day and a buzzing headache we headed home and did some Internet shopping, got our list together for my mom to get up at 4am to do early Black Friday shopping!

Friday: My mom headed out and killed 3-4 things off my list before 8am! We chilled out Friday, Grandma and I did a little shopping with Myla, had a nice spaghetti dinner before my grandma, jenny, and I headed off to our Girl's night out to the Savannah Theater to see A Christmas Tradition. It was really cool for me because I knew someone in the show!!! It was really a great way to start off the Christmas season! When we got back home there was a surprise waiting for me...new curtains in the living room and no more vertical falling down blinds! I love them....they are perfect and cozy and easy! It is an early Christmas present from my mom and dad :).
And finally Saturday...a day of wrapping...wrapping with other people's wrapping paper...organizing, packing...I sent a bunch of clothes and baby items with my mom so we don't have to pay extra and check bags for our flight for Christmas! Around 3 we headed downtown to check out Holly Jolly something or other...it was pretty lame...but then waited 2 hours to eat at Vinnie's with a table of 7.5...mistake...we should have split up. We made it down to River Street in time to see 3 boats with lights on them...a little late. Tyler liked them and then there were fireworks...and oh yeah a surprise under my seat at Vinnies...a $20 box of pralines!

Sunday the plan was for mom and grandma to load up and head home. They didn't make it very far on Sunday...but I'm glad they didn't kill each other in 5mph traffic through ATL. The next day they tried to make up time...we won't go into that sad but funny story. Let's just say I called once and got hung up on and then again 20 minutes later and they were in laughing hysterics and Bert and Ernie were removed from their spot around the rear view mirror.

Tyler's Birthday!

2010-12-06T15:35:00.008-05:00

Happy Turkey Birthday Tyler!

The crazy turkey cake that totally fell apart!

Playing "Hot Pumpkin" Tyler needed LOTS of help understanding how to pass it to the next person really fast. They all had fun though!

We played pin the tail on the Turkey...Tyler went first!

The "made with love" Turkey Pinata. My mom and I made over the course of 4 days! It was a blast and tons of great memories. Tyler didn't want to "bam" it...but did want the candy inside. He had one of his, "It's too loud and crazy" moments and retreated and wanted to go home! But I helped him rip open the "slightly re-inforced" pinata so him and the other kids could gather up the candy.

Blowing out all of his candles...he did it all by himself. The sure sign of a 3 year old!

And then opening presents!

Myla is half a year old already!

2010-11-20T16:17:00.004-05:00

She weighed in at 21 lbs 9 oz

28.8 inches long

Still growing more and more off the charts.

Hopefully my NON-danty little girl will start to thin out over the next 6 months. She is wearing size 12-18 month sleepers and most 12 month clothes/outfits/dresses. She can still squeeze into some 9 month clothes.

She is still just so sweet. She is sitting up on her own now, playing and grabbing at everything. She is really interested in what we are eating...but doesn't really like to swallow the cereal and food that I can give her. We are still working on eating better...she has a funny tongue...it's very strong and pushes out all the time! Oh, and that tooth I spoke of months ago...still non-existent. I don't know where it went...but it's not coming up!
A fun fall day out on the swingset! Tyler is in a phase where he doesn't like his picture taken. This was a cool day on Nov 6, 2010.

Myla is 5 months!!!Tyler is Potty Trained!!!

2010-10-27T13:13:00.002-05:00

Tyler's first prize for peeing 6 times in the potty and pooping once...fish...they didn't last long. Who knew they can't live in brackish water? The next prize was popcorn and a slushy at Target. Then a Big Ball...but no one is selling them anymore??? and tonight he gets a new small adult fishing pole...like mommy's. He is very excited. The next chart is going to be a little longer and tougher to get these prizes....then I have to figure out how to wean him from the reward system!

Tyler likes peeing on his potty best....but has gone both pee and poop in Big Lots! He was trained in 5 days...and has had only 1 accident since then! He said he watered the trees outside but didn't pull down his pants! Anyways, Scott and I are beside ourselves! We are so proud of him. However, now we are encountering the never ending excuses as to why he won't go to sleep at night. And he is getting out of his bed and sneaking around the house to find us. The other night he didn't finally go to bed until 11pm...after the 3 poops in the potty! Hopefully this will get better because Scott and I are getting rather frustrated...but at the same time he's so cute.....ugh!

Myla is growing so fast. She is such a sweet baby. Her sleeping habits are the greatest anymore. I guess I had it too good for those 2 months. Her teeth haven't poked through yet...but I can still see them. She has started eating rice cereal and today she had oatmeal for the first time. She is eating that better each day. She is so sweet for everyone in the church and MOPS nursery...such a change from our experience with Tyler. But now Tyler is so excited to go to his class at church! Speaking of...he's about to get a spanking...because he keeps yelling from his nap...he's been in there an hour and no nap yet....he will sleep!!!!! I think I will ignore him.

My beautiful babies.

2010-10-18T21:43:00.003-05:00

Brother and Sister...AWWWW. Tyler still asks to hold Myla, but now he says too BIG!

Myla was having trouble sleeping for her nap...so I put her under this play gym and continued working on my computer...next thing I look over and she is OUT!

Gotta love the Bumbo. Not too much longer will those chubby legs fit. It's quite a hassle getting her out!

Tyler sometimes reverts back and wants to play with his old toys.

And look who found her toes? I think it is so cute to see babies do this. Look how flexible they are. Here is Tyler in the same pose....awww...
You can't tell they are brother and sister can you?

Tyler Rides a REAL bike

2010-10-14T15:36:00.005-05:00

Cousin Andrew grew too big for his bike and let Tyler have it. He LOVES it and wants to go on a bike ride about as often as he wants to go to the dock! Thanks so much Uncle Rob and Aunt Amy for being so generous with all of the hand me downs. We are so grateful! Scott has a video that is so cute of him riding around our little island...just can't get it off his phone...

Can you guess why Tyler is eating Green Eggs and Ham?

Myla is still toothless....but she LOVES chewing on ice cubes and is still having restless sleep. Mommy is tired and my baby girl is in pain. I think both bottom ones are trying to come up at the same time. Hopefully they will break through soon and give her some rest.

Family boat ride to Hunter Park for Tyler to play. We caught this sunset on the way back. Myla seems to enjoy the boat rides.

Tyler has been having fun with Daddy on the dock and on the boat. First mate Tyler. and Captain Scott.

We got back from our family boat ride and they had something on their pole...ewww a gar!

Exersaucer

2010-10-04T15:42:00.003-05:00

Tyler dressed Myla up in Beiber Fever bracelets. He thought it was really funny.

We got down the exersaucer for Myla to play in...I was surprised at how well she stood up in it. She doesn't like standing much.

Big brother Tyler teaching her all the toys.

Tyler when he was 4 months old in it! (you can definitely see the difference in skin tone between Myla and Tyler!)

Myla is probably teething. She is congested with clear fluid, a little more fussy, and restless sleep last night...up every 2 hours. It seems early to me...Tyler didn't break his first tooth until 10 months. But I do remember thinking he was teething for quite some time. We'll see.

The weather is turning beautiful here in Savannah, which means the sand gnats will be out again :(. But the outdoors is pleasant. Tyler still loves going to the dock, riding his bike, and we are working on the whining bit. He learned to use the cheese cutter today...watch out. It was precious watching him carve me pieces of cheese to put on my crackers.

Yesterday was a lazy Sunday and during naptime I let Myla sleep on the couch with me while I read a book. In the last week I finished 2 N. Sparks books, Dear John and The Choice. I love escaping into the life of these characters and usually need a few days to mourn the end of the book. Anyways, Myla was awake lying in between my legs on the couch just watching the trees sway back and forth outside. She slowly closed her eyes and drifted off to a peaceful sleep. It was the sweetest thing I've seen in awhile. Another unforgettable moment in motherhood.

Happy 4 Month Myla

2010-09-19T15:17:00.008-05:00

Look at her point those toes and stretch that leg out! You can also see she's grabbing at things now, as she pulls up her lovey to her...you know what...and into her MOUTH. Everything is going into her mouth these days and I'm having to change her outfit 3-4 times a day because of all that drool!

I know...I can't believe it...it's been 1 month since I posted! Myla is 4 months old already...I didn't even have a September folder opened yet before I put these growth lovey pictures in it today! Time is really flying by...I wonder when I'll stop saying that...I don't think ever because I still here our parents saying it!

Routine is good here...except the fact that Myla only take 30-45 minute cat naps during the day...but hey...she sleeps ALL night regularly. 9pm-7, 8, sometimes 9am! That is a good feeling!

She is really smiling and talking a lot! She has giggled a few times and actually Tyler got her to giggle for the first time! And Tyler witnessed her first roll over all by herself from her back to her stomach. (Tyler's first roll over was from stomach to back at exactly 4 months old). Her 4 month check up will be Tuesday so I will have to update the weight/length percentiles, but I'm pretty sure she has surpassed Tyler by this age. You think a girl would be nice a dainty...not ours :). She is really beautiful though and her features remind me so much of Tyler...except the skin tone. We are still breastfeeding and are waiting to start cereal a little longer than we started with Tyler...why not..she is getting plenty...we will see what the Dr. says Tuesday.

She's had a few accidents...or maybe I should say we have :(. She did roll off the couch while I was in the kitchen...poor baby. She cried for 11 seconds and then was fine...I mainly feel bad because she was swaddled so nothing to break the fall. And then just yesterday Scott ejected her out of the car seat on accident when the lift handle got stuck in all her hang down toys. She fell smack on her face...luckily on the rug over the tile entry way. Scott felt so bad....but really there wasn't even a mark by the time I got home. And of course Tyler has wapped her a few times but all out of hyperness. He really loves her. We here him talking to her like we talk to her..."Myla just go to sleep" and "Good burp Myla!"

We spend every morning out on the dock with Tyler, so he can get his "fix" for the day. It is quite entertaining watching Tyler copy all of Scott's mannerisms out on the dock. He casts out, puts his pole against the side and says, "wait for it". He always says, "gonna catch a BIG fish." He tells me "good cast mom." Whenever he catches anything...usually seaweed or a stick...he gets very excited and wants me to pull it off for him. Today he actually caught an EEL...which he called a BIG WOM.

Other news, we are starting to get a good church/small group routine. We go to service Sat nights and then HomeBuilders small group Sunday morning at the church to utilize the child care...and then the kids and I are going to Wednesday night service while Scott works late or does whatever for his time. It's been really great and Tyler seems to be enjoying his new 2 year old class called Caboose. Otherwise I am just enjoying my time home with the kids even though it is quite exhausting, no more naps for me with Myla staying awake more, but I get some down time without Tyler running around from about 2-4ish.

Here are some of Myla's 3 month pictures taken by Aunt Jenny.

Time for sleep now.

Love to all!

Carrie

Happy 3 months Myla

2010-08-19T19:50:00.003-05:00

3 Month picture with her lovey. I had to wait until she was asleep because this happy girl wouldn't keep her feet down!

Their first bath together...probably first of many once she starts sitting up. I can't believe how much she has grown in the last few months. She is one big breast milk fed baby! I think she has passed up Tyler's records...we will see at her 4 month check up.

Myla Quick Facts:

*She has been sleeping ~9 hours every night straight for the last 3 weeks or so!!! 9pm-6am. It has been amazing. I remember I used to say that it's impossible for a breastfed baby to sleep that long so early...I was wrong. Every baby is different and God blessed me with a sleeper this time! She is doing so great in her crib. I wished we moved Tyler in his crib as early as we did her. I guess you learn with your second!

*She is quite the flirt and smiles all the time. Last week in Key West people said that when she smiles, she smiles with her whole body...even her toes! She is really pretty too. At first I wasn't so sure about the strange pale gray baby that came out of me...but every day she gets more and more beautiful! She had a lot to live up to with Tyler though! I am so blessed to have gorgeous babies! I'm not biased or anything :).

* She is really easy to tell whats wrong. Her gas is starting to subside...maybe it's because I haven't been eating as much fiber as I needed to in the beginning! I can tell if it's been a few hours and she is fussy that she just wants to go to sleep. I put her in the Vulcan sleep hold (we learned with Tyler) and she falls asleep.

* She is wearing 6 month clothes and almost needs 9 month sleepers with footie's...because she is so long. I'm still squeezing her into a few though :).

* She is really making me eat a lot of sweets :). If I wasn't breast feeding her I think I'd be 50 pounds overweight by now!

*She still only poops once a day. (compared to Tyler who pooped every time I fed him!)

*NO giggles yet...but a happy baby!

*Tyler really loves her and talks to her and says the things he hears us say to her. Tonight he made me turn towards the TV so he could talk to her. He asked her if she was ready to go to the store. When she cries he comes and gets me and says she needs to burp.

She is such a wonderful blessing to our family. I love her so much I can't stand it!

Keys Family Vacation

2010-08-18T08:18:00.007-05:00

Our first REAL vacation with two kids. And actually I would consider our first vacation as a family. Usually our trips consist of going to Iowa, which if fun to see everyone but it's not a true vacation. I was excited for Scott to get away and have a little bit of an excuse not to be working ALL the time. He did pretty good at relaxing but in a job of sales the phone always has to be close. We drove down to Miami on Saturday Aug 7th after we attended Scott's parents 40th wedding anniversary party (and Scott's mom's birthday celebration) We left around 5pm drove home to get something we left, which was on the way...and by 5:45pm both kids were fast asleep. Myla woke once at 7:30 for a bottle and then back to sleep. Tyler woke a few times briefly just for some water and to complain of being uncomfortable. Poor baby, we all know that feeling of sleeping in a car. So one stop, slight detour and 8 hours later we get to Scott's cousins at 1:30am. We were exhausted...Tyler excited and WIDE awake! Finally he went to sleep 2 hours later. Sunday we hung out in Miami and had breakfast at IHOP with cousin Laurie and later that night dinner with the whole gang before we took off for the condo in Islamorada...both kids sleeping again :).

Monday: Tyler woke up to docks and boats galore and was so exciting to go fishing he couldn't stand it,,,the bad part it was raining! So we hit the grocery store for the 3 days we would be at the condo, had lunch, nap time, and the rain stopped so we thought the pool would be fun. While we were at the grocery store Scott took Myla out to the car to get her a blanket and when he came back in he spotted Tyler and texted me a note saying, Please pull Tyler's pants up!" Oops...Tyler had been counting the meats in the store as I gathered stuff for dinners...he was in my sight but I didn't notice his pants fell to his ankles. He just kept on counting shuffling his legs...people were pointing and laughing.

Tuesday: The weather was nicer on Tuesday than expected and so Scott and Tyler hit the docks early...and Tyler caught his FIRST fish! He just really loves fishing and spending time with his daddy. I hope this is something they will enjoy together for a lifetime. Next we headed to The Theater of the Sea in Islamorada. I wanted to check out the cost of swimming with dolphins. It has been a dream of mine and we were supposed to do it for our honeymoon, but sea world was too expensive and too long of a wait. There was a whole 2.5 hour show of Sea Lion's, marine life of HUGE sea turtles that have been injured at sea, nurse sharks, a parrot show, and awesome dolphin show. We got a glass bottom boat tour...that ended up being a mini dolphin show in the middle of the boat...jumping out of the water and everything! Tyler was a little frightened...but got used to it.

BIG TURTLE!

And I got to swim with dolphins...finally. It was exhilarating! I swam 2 laps with a dolphin and dove down and he followed me while I watched him with goggles on. I got a dorsal fin ride, a kiss, a hug, and hold one like a baby! It was truly a dream come true. That night we headed over to some friends of ours that moved down there last summer. It was great seeing them and imagine life living in The Keys.

Wednesday: We just hung around the condo all day fishing and swimming...I got a lot of sun! We met some nice people staying at the condo so we had good conversation from some fellow mid-westeners. Wednesday night we went to check out Robbie's...where you feed these HUGE tarpon...and there are hundreds of them just waiting for you to throw in these bait fish. It was quite awesome to watch. And there was a web cam so I called Scott's parents to check us out and they saw us! After that we headed to mile marker 88 and ordered a pina colada and watched the sun go down while Tyler played in the water. That night we packed up the car so we could head to Key West early. I was excited to see my family...and have some reinforcements/help with the kids!

Family picture in front of the aquarium at the hotel!

Thursday: We arrived in Key West around 11am and headed straight to the pool. Tyler was jumping off the wall excited! Aunt Debbie took Tyler down and Myla and I soon joined her. We sat under these cool cabana's with ceiling fans and ordered lunch from a waitress that walked around. It was the best turkey club sandwich and sweet potato fries I've had in a long time. We put Tyler down for a nap and we connected with Jim and Ginny and Johne and Jenny. Scott went with JJ and Deb, Jim's grandma, the kids and I took the shuttle to eat at Two Friends...for some fish and chips...they weren't the same as I remembered them 5 years ago though :(. Then walked down to Mallory Square for sunset celebration.

We even saw Spiderman....the later years...Tyler didn't know what to think about him. Then it was off to get the shuttle and get the kids back in bed. Myla did great and went to bed easy...Tyler and Aunt Jenny and Aunt Debbie went down to the pool for a little while before bedtime.

Friday: We headed over to one of Jimmy's friends hotel where we played some 2 on 3 and 2 on 2 volleyball. Joe and I whooped up on them! We are the champions! It was so much fun and it was the most exercise that I have done in 12 months...I was a little sore the next day! It was a blast. Then we swam for a bit...Tyler loved playing with Aunt Jenny and Daddy in the pool. We tried to get Tyler to take an early nap...it didn't work...I can't remember if he napped at all. Anyways, we headed downtown for the rehearsal dinner. I was excited because my parents were in route from Miami. It was happy hour and the whole left side of the menu was 1/2 off! After we ate we headed to what was supposed to be a glass bottom boat tour, which turned out to be a booze cruise sunset sail...GREAT...nursing a baby and champagne...huh? I only had one glass... It was a gorgeous sunset and good time to be with family. We headed back and getting the 9:20 shuttle back was scary because it was packed full and I needed to get my kids in bed (it was a little different being in Key West, party town, with two small children) It was a good excuse to be good and go to bed! Anyways, we are on the shuttle and Scott is being obnoxious...looks down at Tyler who is sitting in between my mom and I peacefully with his eyes closed...and Scott yells, TYLER, ARE YOU SLEEPING? and with no hesitation Tyler responds, YES! It had the whole back of the shuttle laughing! Even Tyler was giggling..then fell fast asleep again. He did so good...especially for not having a nap that day!

Earlier pool fun!

Cool Dude with his sun glassed and McD's Cinnamon rolls!

Saturday..Wedding Day: My Aunt and I decided to go Para sailing. She had done it before and wanted to do it again...so I volunteered to do it with her. It was GREAT! The guy on the boat made it quite entertaining as well. We didn't see any sharks or anything, but the others said they saw a sea turtle. It was good memories to have with my Aunt Debbie!

Finally...the wedding...and 2 minutes later the ceremony is over! AWESOME...just like our wedding! It was really beautiful and I am so happy for my cousin Jimmy...he found a good girl and I can't wait to see their life together...we are hoping for a family trip in 5 years back to Key West for a reunion/anniversary! It will be our 10 year and their 5 year anniversary!

Here is Tyler with the newlyweds! Blowing the bubbles...he blew them throughout the ceremony...hey it kept him quiet! The reception was wonderful on the dock, we had piano music in the back ground, and 4-5 course meal with appetizer, salad, and I ordered the Filet Mignon. hmmmm. And then of course the Wedding Cake for desert. It was a great way to celebrate Jim and Ginny...until we waited for over an hour for the shuttle to get home, both kids had poopy diapers and were exhausted...oh wait...that's the story of my life these days with 2 small kids...and I LOVE it! Hopefully that's what Jim and Ginny get to look forward to in the next 5 years :).

Sunday: We went to a nice brunch to see Jim and Ginny and then headed out of town...in hopes of making it all the way to Savannah. Before we left we stopped by the Duval Beach Club (where we got married) and snapped a family shot looking back at our wedding spot on the beach. Such wonderful memories came back...and now look at my beautiful kids...5 years later!

We stopped in Miami for a few hours...got Tyler nice and wore out. We made it home about 12am! We survived our first road trip...I hope there will be many more to come!

Not much...

2010-08-05T15:52:00.005-05:00

Not much really going on but my grandma insisted that I do a blog before our big family trip...so I will find some pictures and talk about them...hmmmm

Scott and Tyler dancing during a night out at Delagal Marina's grand opening. It was a fun family evening! Mommy and Myla chilling in the sun at Delagal.

Brother and sister chilling on the couch.

Friends came in town to meet Myla and we took them to the beach for their 1 year old daughters 1st time! As you can see Tyler loved the tide pools and he brought his fishing pole. He still does not like the big water and the waves.

Tyler at soft play at the mall, he learned a new sign...must have learned at church...looking through binoculars or something. It's fun to see him learning new things and saying new grown up things everyday! His newest word/annoyance is HUH? every time you say something...HUH?

Abby came to visit this last weekend and we had a really wonderful time seeing her and hanging out with her sweet family. Scott's brother, Doug was going to marry this sweet girl before he was killed 8 years ago. She has since found a wonderful man and has 2 beautiful daughters. It was really great to see her and talk with her, since we only keep up through facebook and blogs. She showed me how to use these cloth diapers on Myla...which she uses pretty much full time on her youngest daughter, which inspired Scott's mom to buy me some for my baby shower...won't be doing it full time...but maybe around the house...AFTER her poop for the day!!!
Oh, did I mention that Myla is really BIG!

Comparisons

2010-07-21T14:17:00.009-05:00

Myla and Tyler comparisons...just for fun:

Myla 39wks 8lbs 5oz22in

Tyler 40wks2days, 9lbs 9oz, 21.5in

Myla 1 month 11lbs 5oz, 23.5in

Tyler-1month, 12lbs 11oz, 23in

Myla 2 month 14lbs 10oz, 25.25in

Tyler: 2 months, 15lbs 1oz, 24.5 in

A couple pics of each with Granddad...similar pictures.

Happy 2 months Myla!

2010-07-19T16:39:00.004-05:00

Today Myla is 2 months old. Where did my little tiny newborn go (well that only lasted like a day!) She is my big 2 month old now. I'm not sure but she may be bigger than Tyler ever was at 2 months. She is so sweet and so cuddly and lovey. She is fairly easy to take places...after her fit about being in the car seat she usually falls asleep...which makes me feel bad if she just got up from a nap or in the morning. She's been giving me 5-6 hours of sleep the first leg of the night and then gets up twice between 5-7am. The last four days I've been putting her in the swing in the living room and she'll sleep 'til 9-10am. She's still just cooing away, I think she's going to be a talker. She knows when we leave her in a room alone and usually calls us back pretty quick. So far, she has been a much easier baby than Tyler and knock on wood that continues! Sometimes I wonder if it helps to have had 1 under our belt. I told Scott tonight with Tyler I don't think we ever said (when he was fussy), "I think he's tired." With her I can tell it's been about 2 hours since she woke up and it is time to settle her down to sleep again. She's been doing really great in her crib for night time and at least one long nap in the afternoon. She is molding into Tyler's schedule great! I can count on at least an hour of quiet in the house and nap if I want to. Today I did for at least an hour!!!

Tyler swimming all over the pool all by himself while I sit with Myla.

Today I caught him sweeping off the sidewalk. I love how he can imitate his daddy with tools and fishing and mommy with the housework. He loves getting his vacuum out (which is our eureka stick vac) and help me vacuum! And he helps me unload the dishwasher...I know his enthusiasm for cleaning won't last long, so I'm going to enjoy it while I can...even if it makes the chores go a little bit slower.

My princess ready for church. She will only wear this dress once...it's was a little snug. (0-3mo).

My cool cat in her little sweatsuit.

And Big brother giving Myla a bottle. It was really sweet!

2 weeks of fun

2010-07-07T21:43:00.006-05:00

We had a fantastic July 4th weekend! Tyler's cousins came over on Saturday to play, that night Scott and I went downtown for a mini date night, Sunday watched tennis and went to small group BBQ, had another fun date night with Scott after the kids went to sleep,which was a little tough with fireworks going off and Tyler being a little scared of the noise, but soon he calmed down and decided he wanted me out of his bed so he could sleep.

Monday had Scott hanging out with us all day...lazing around and playing.

This week Myla is 7 weeks old and on the 19th will be 2 months already! Where does the time go?

She's already smiling and cooing...next thing I know she will be crawling! Yesterday Tyler saw me swaddle Myla and decided he wanted to be wrapped up too. Last weekend was my birthday and Scott threw me an amazing 30th birthday party with lots of family and friends. We had a Low Country Boil (1 pot=potatoes, sausage, corn, shrimp with lots of Old Bay spice), music and DJ, my mom and aunts sent really great letters to remember me on my birthday and my grandma got up to the mic and read them all. My brother and Aunt Debbie also gave some highlights and stories of my life. It was really special. I have no pictures yet...I have to get them from my Aunt...will post soon.

My Grandma, Aunt Debbie, and her friend Deb all came to visit us for 5 days as well. We had a great time and even ate at Lady and Sons, Paula Deen's restaurant. I think it was the highlight of their visit. My Aunt is a big fan. They painted Tyler's room blue and we set up Tyler's BIG bed with the comforter that Grandma A bought for him, 5 of us got our toes done on my birthday, the big party was Saturday, and Sunday went to church. Myla and I took everyone downtown to River street on Sunday as well. It was fun having everyone come visit and having them meet Myla and be here for my big birthday!
More pictures of Myla smiling...this stage is so hard to take good pictures!

Special prayers go out to my soon-to-be Cousin-in-law, Ginny for her battle with Cancer. She was just moved from a stage 4 diagnoses to a stage 1! God is already answering prayers! Can't wait for the wedding in Key West in August!

More Myla

2010-06-22T14:09:00.006-05:00

All wrapped up cosy at home in her Moses basket and embroidered burp cloth and lovey.

Myla all curled up 1 week old.

Myla's foot

Mom and Daughter hands

Floating with her lovey! (1 week old)

In a NEWBORN onesie and Grandma's handmade headband!

In her crib with her neat wall wart! M Y L A soon to hang above it.

Myla and her lovey. 1 month old.

Chillin' in her 3 month outfit! (1 month old)

Myla and her new BFF Ansley

Father's Day

2010-06-21T13:58:00.005-05:00

Happy Belated Father's Day!

We had a great day...grill out with BYOM...bring your own meat...at Rob and Amy's. You would not believe the grill...it had 1 of every kind of meat possible. It was such good food, good company. Amy completley out did herself, as always, with great homemade baked beans, her famous mac n cheese, there was asparagus, salad, and plenty of food for an army! I had a huge top sirloin...that I shared with my 2 oldest nephews...and then had an awesome steak and cheese sandwich today with the left overs!

Well, i don't know about Scott...but I had a good father's day! I'm hoping my dad also had a good father's day in Iowa. Love you dad! I dressed Myla in a I love Daddy onesie...I love this age when you can express yourself and your baby through the funny sayings on onesies!

Love you honey and thanks for NOT being a DUD dad to our 2 wonderful children!

Myla is 1 month!

2010-06-20T20:30:00.004-05:00

Myla today!

I can't believe it's been a month already (4.5 wks). Myla is growing and changing so much already. It makes me sad to see the time fly by so fast. When I look back at the past 2.5 years with Tyler I am just in amazement of how fast it really goes. It makes me emotional to think how fast Myla is going to grow up too. At her one month appointment today she weighed 11lbs 11oz and was 23.5 " long. This makes her off the charts in both height and weight...right along with her brother. As I posted on facebook I'm predicting that she is a brown haired, blue eyed, 6' tall, left handed, professional tennis player. US OPEN champ 2028!

Re-cap of the last month:

1. Mom and Dad stayed in Savannah until Myla was a week and half old. Mom helped a lot with Tyler, and helped Scott with some flower planting, she helped me with housework, my sanity and emotions. Dad played with Tyler and hung out at Johne and Jenny's. and held his granddaughter a bit too :).

2. We had our buddy Ron came to visit us, it wasn't as exciting for him as he's used to with a new baby and Scott working, but they got up on the water ski's a bit and we watched the French open on TV.

3. Once everything calmed down a bit and my hormones were back in check, Tyler, Myla and I survived our first full day alone together. AND Tyler was GREAT! He was a big helper, didn't make it hard on me at all and we had a great day. I think God knew I needed that! Tyler really loves his little sister, comments how cute she is, rocks her when she cries, always wants to hold her as soon as she falls asleep OR I am nursing her!

4. We have been blessed by a dozen or so meals provided by our small group and my MOPS friends. It has really been wonderful for me not to stress out on what I'm feeding Scott for dinner. And the food has been amazing!

5. June 11th Myla and I had our first overnight sleepover party with the End of the Year MOPS leadership party. It was fun to be around all my mommy friends and be able to talk about mom and wife stuff and not feel so crazy...because we all have our "stuff"

6. Tyler in a Toddler Bed! He doesn't really get the fact he can come out yet, which is a good thing I guess...until he screams for you to come get him and you don't want to get out of bed and just want him to come to you! He's starting to catch on though. This week we are switching it to a full size bed and hopefully painting his room in the next week to match his new bedspread that Grandma A bought for him. And I want to put navy blue curtains up to keep out the sunlight so he'll go to bed earlier and sleep in later! This 6am stuff is not fun for mommy and daddy!

6. June 18th was our 5 year anniversary...grandma/grandpa took Tyler for the night and Scott and I ordered take out (with $25 gift from his parents :)) and watched 2 movies, one at night and one in the morning!! Scott bought us a Japanese Maple to put in our yard and made up a bunch of traditional stuff that goes with it. I got him a dual view digital camera...both of ours crashed...did you know they only have a 5 year life span? they do that on purpose so you have to continue buying more...so annoying! It was a great way to spend the evening with my husband and Myla did great and slept the whole time (tyler never would have done that...remember Tyler cried every night from 5-11pm it seemed!)

7. This week we have a new wave of visitors, my grandma, my aunt debbie and her friend.

Myla Jo is HERE!

2010-05-20T21:43:00.004-05:00

Myla Jo

May 19, 2010

4:04pm

8lbs 5oz

22 inches

Our family of 4!

Big Brother Tyler!

Hospital Bound-39 weeks

2010-05-18T13:24:00.012-05:00

Me and my first born! I love you Tyler!

Well, here we go...about 2 hours from checking into the hospital to start the induction process to get my big baby girl out of my belly. I'm feeling a bunch of different emotions but mainly today God has given me peace and I am excited to know that we will get to meet Myla tomorrow. I pray that my body and Myla work together for a smooth labor and delivery and no broken bones...hehe...like Tyler did. I'm looking forward to being with Scott and really getting to bond together through the process and meet and hold our little girl for the first time. Makes me tear up just thinking about it. Tyler is going to be taken care of by my mom and Scott's parents to help relieve her when they can. He has been a little testy getting used to someone else helping me but I'm confident without Scott or me around he will be a good boy for his grandparents. I've tried explaining things to him and I know he remembers conversations and hope that he processes where mommy and daddy are for the next day or so and that he is going to meet his little sister very soon. I also tried to explain that she is going to come home and stay. I'm so thankful to have so many friends and family here to help with the transition, meals planned for the next few weeks, friends that have gone through this, the encouragement, and prayers.

Tyler: Nov 23, 2007

Myla: May 18th, 2010

Here is my belly at 39 weeks with Myla and 40 weeks with Tyler out on the dock. I'm saying good-bye to my baby belly, just in case this is our last child...I've enjoyed the pregnancy and getting weird glances lately about how I'm surely about to pop this balloon out of my shirt. It's quite entertaining. I'm sure Scott will have quite the entertaining saga of the labor and delivery for us all really soon. The last one with Tyler was pretty funny. From a man's/husbands perspective. If it's not posted on here...I will soon.

Thanks for all your thoughts and prayers...we pray for Myla's health and my recovery with 2 kids!!

Love to all!

PS-I have no idea why this is all linked to the first picture...don't have time to mess with it!

Belly Pics...comparison

2010-04-27T22:17:00.002-05:00

Belly at 37 weeks with Tyler.

Belly at 36 weeks with Myla. (looks to me like I was a little bit bigger with Tyler, but pretty much the same shape). My father-in-law says that when this baby comes out a boy, he is going to have lots of pink things to wear. He is still not convinced that Myla is a girl.

Next week I have an ultrasound to check on Myla and how much she's estimated to weigh. I am scheduled for induction on May 18th...and will probably have her on May 19th. I am praying that she will not be as big as Tyler was and that she will start the labor process on her own. My mom will be headed down here on the 14/15th and will stay with us for a week or so after she is born. I have been doing my best to rest as much as I can and taking naps with Tyler. I am enjoying my time with Tyler but feel bad when I can't do all the things he wants me to like pick him up and play outside with him. I can't keep up with him on his big wheel and I can't chase tennis balls with him anymore. He is still really sweet to the baby in my belly and sometimes when she hurts me moving around really low in my pelvic area...he says come out baby...baby hurt? Tonight I was putting lotion on him after his bath and he asked to put lotion on the baby and rubbed his little tiny hands all over my belly putting lotion on the baby. I think he is going to be such a sweet big brother.

I can't believe in only 3 weeks I will meet her...at the same time I want the time to go slow and be very restful.

Myla's Complete Bedding Set and wall art

2010-04-17T21:11:00.004-05:00

Thank you to my mom, Aunt's Carla, Chris, Debbie, Karen, and cousin Perri in Iowa who got Myla her complete bedding set...here it is and it is so beautiful and perfect! Amy gave me her crib mattress and glider rocker today as well...so Myla's room is complete and full!

Above the crib is the project I put Jenny up to...pictures of Savannah's popular flower the Azalea (they are blooming now). She took these amazing pictures this week and matted them on foam board and I will hang them like pictured above probably on this wall. They turned out really great!

I had a great baby shower this afternoon hosted by my sister-in-law Amy. It was so nice and the food was amazing! Myla got so many great things. Bath towels, bath robe, some outfits, photo books, hand/foot print kits, cloth diapers???...Abby...i need a lesson, treasure box with a purple hand crocheted blanket from my neighbor, diapers, diaper cream, crib sheets, the softest blankets ever and one with her name embroidered on it, a fun standing lamp, gift certificates to Target, a compact stroller, and a whole LOT of PINK! My grandma sent down a knitted headband for Myla and I took that to show off...everyone really loved that and I took the quilt to show off the bedding.

It was a really wonderful day. Thank you Lord for all the wonderful thoughtful people in our life that shower us with blessing after blessing!

Myla's room progress

2010-04-15T21:04:00.002-05:00

Dear Myla,
Aunt Jenny came over to help me put together your dresser/changing table today.
Daddy and I put together the night stand together one night. Grandma A got you your quilt. A friend of Aunt Amy's gave us the crib. Aunts Carla, Debbie, Chris, Karen, and cousin Perry all got you the rest of the bedding set...bumber, crib sheet, and crib skirt...(hope to be put together and pictured soon). We got the night stand and dresser from Uncle Rob and Aunt Amy's store. And Grandma S. got you the awesome lamp!
This is the finished product of the dresser Aunt Jenny and I put together.
Daddy hung up one curtain rod/curtain and another friend of mommy's came over today and helped hang the other curtain rod. I really love your room and I hope you do too.

Love,
Mommy

Counter tops and coming events

2010-04-13T22:14:00.003-05:00

Scott took a whole Saturday, by himself, and installed these counter tops. We really love them and are proud to say we took all the measurements ourselves and everything fit GREAT! We still don't know what to do with that back corner. We did attempt to stain the refrigerator panels...the freezer door panel was first and is interesting. The other two look pretty good, but could be a little darker.
We have really been enjoying eating at our table and starting a routine for dinners at least. I LOVE this L shape we did with the dishwasher...counter top space is so GREAT!

This is looking into the living room...more counter top space and a bar top where people can hang out while I'm cleaning or cooking and talk to me...and I LOVE being able to watch the news or whatever is on while getting dinner or breakfast ready.

As far as other projects...we have Myla's room almost complete...curtains and dresser should be done tomorrow. The crib was put together on Saturday and looks great...still have to tighten a few bolts...we are having company this weekend and their 8 month old will be sleeping in Myla's bed. After all the furniture in place, all I will have to do is put away ALL the clothes and start washing some of them. I'm very excited about the room and so is Tyler! He goes in there saying baby's room and has a HUGE smile on his face.

I am starting to be a little uncomfortable...Myla scrapes around inside me and sometimes causes discomfort. Sleeping is getting more difficult, especially if I wake up in the middle of the night, it's hard getting back to sleep. God sure made this process quite interesting! Anyways, last week we had an ultrasound and it showed a 5lb 5oz baby growing steadily. The Dr. is 100% sure we will at least be induced 7-10 days early. The next ultrasound will seal the deal...and that's in 3 weeks or so. I really don't want a C-section if not necessary but I have to trust the Dr. and whatever he says is best for me and the baby is what we'll do. I just don't want to do anything out of convenience for anyone else. So, 5 weeks from today, Myla will be here!

My sister-in-law Jenny gave me a plaque for Christmas that I can put any message I want on it. I saw this verse from another shower gift I attended last fall. 1 Samuel 1:27. "I prayed for this child, and the LORD has granted me what I asked of him. "

I love you Myla and can't wait to meet you and for you to meet our whole family.

My sister-in-law Amy is throwing a shower for me and Myla on Saturday and I am so excited! She has an exquisite menu planned, as always, and I'm excited for my friends experience her amazing ability to entertain. My friend Haley is also helping her out and sent out cute invitations (I will have to scan it in someday). My MOPS girls are also throwing a boy/girl shower for me and another girl, that is due the same time I am., next Saturday. They are so awesome and I know it's going to so much fun...that invitation is so cute with camouflage and hot pink border! (must scan in).

Here is a video of my Big Boy riding his Big Wheel...

Last weeks kitchen progress

2010-04-03T13:29:00.006-05:00

Last weekend we got some of our cabinets in for the kitchen...then we measured for counter tops. This weekend, we got 3 more cabinets and our counter tops and Scott is plugging away at everything. Above is the view into the living room (we ordered a 18" drawer base and a 9" wall cabinet for this wall). This is our wall oven and we need to lower it a few inches...but we have a warming drawer under it, so we'll see how that works. Below is our dining area...and another window that has been covered up by refrigerators for the past 3 years! We love our table and have eaten there 3-4 nights this week and it has been really great. Scott already picked out daddy's spot...so he can see the TV!This is the refrigerator (Uncle Greg is going to help give it a built in look and match the panels to the cabinets). The back corner does not have enough room for a corner cabinet, so we will have some dead space :(. The sink over the window and the L shaped bar area...for easy buffet style dinner!

That's it for the kitchen, it already looks so much different than these pictures, the counter tops are perfect. Can't wait to get things back in order!

Tyler has been keeping me busy with playing tennis (OK I just stand there and throw him the ball...he chases after them), casting off the dock, riding his big wheel, and talking nonstop! He is so much fun these days. He kisses my back when my sciatica pain is causing me to scream...he is such a loving boy...he doesn't understand why kissing it doesn't make it better right away though. He loves his baby sister already (at least he thinks he does). I don't think he quite understands...but the other day we were at a friends house and he found a necklace and put it around my bare belly and then lowered my shirt and said, "for baby." It was really sweet. He loves going into her room and knows it's for the baby. Her room is coming together...we are working on ordering some furniture and still have to put the crib together, hang the curtain rods and a few touch up paint areas. The bedding looks amazing thanks to my mom and my aunts and cousin Perri especially with the curtains I found! (Scott is not a fan of the curtains but his mom and I overruled him!) Can't wait to post pictures in the next few weeks!

Scott has been working so hard and I am so thankful. Everything is really coming together nicely. I am so lucky to have him, he is so handy, hardworking, and smart. I love him so much!

It's been beautiful here in Savannah, minus the sand gnats...but my skin so soft seems to work at keeping them at bay. Tyler asks for bug spray all the time now.

Happy Easter Weekend Everyone.

From the sixth hour until the ninth hour darkness came over all the land. About the ninth hour Jesus cried out in a loud voice, 'Eloi, Eloi, lama sabachthani?'--which means, 'My God, my God, why have you forsaken me?' When some of those standing there heard this, they said, 'He's calling Elijah.' Immediately one of them ran and got a sponge. He filled it with wine vinegar, put it on a stick, and offered it to Jesus to drink. The rest said, 'Now leave him alone. Let's see if Elijah comes to save him.' And when Jesus had cried out again in a loud voice, he gave up his spirit. Matthew 27:45-50 NIV

Jesus died on the cross for us, to wipe out all of our sins (past sins, present sins, and future sins), all you have to do is make Jesus your savior and the Lord of your life. He will guide you the rest of the way and you will be with him in Heaven for Eternity! He's reaching out his hand to you, all you have to do is reach back!

30 weeks

2010-03-16T20:51:00.003-05:00

I can't believe we only have 10 weeks to go until we meet Myla. The last Dr.'s visit I had warned me of possibly going 1 week early to prevent another broken collar bone like Tyler had. I was kind of hoping she would stay in there until June...but I guess the Dr. has a point. I was asked if I wanted to do a C-section on my due date, but said I only want a C-section if it's an emergency, so the other option is to induce early. I will have 2 more ultrasounds to determine how big she is before the Dr. makes the official determination though. He said to start thinking about mid May though instead of May 25th.

No progress on the kitchen. Scott has been working really hard and we have a guy coming to dry wall as soon as he finishes another project. I can't wait to get a kitchen again! Lots of other organizing and putting together to do. The goal is one month! Better start praying!

Tomorrow is St. Patty's day and we are taking Tyler to the parade with Grandma and Grandpa. We'll see how he does, he gets a little scared of weird people playing music. We are riding the bus from the Savannah Mall so we don't have to worry about parking. I'm hoping it's not raining either.

Myla's Room...and update.

2010-03-03T15:29:00.005-05:00

http://www.potterybarnkids.com/products/pink-katie-nursery-bedding/

There has been another change of plans for Myla's room. It's kind of fun having so many options! I found this last night online and love it...still debating on the cost of it all...but this is definitely in the front running for now.

Other life events:

The kitchen is functional but an unorganized mess...we are on hold for another week it looks like while Scott finishes up another project. I'm not stressed...yet. We still have 12 weeks to go before Myla gets here...at least I hope she stays in my belly for that long! The kitchen needs drywall, paint, cabinets, appliances installed and of course counter tops. Then Myla's room painted, the hallway and living room painted, and hopefully we'll get Tyler's room re-painted as well...all before May 25th!

We did this the last time I was 28 weeks pregnant when we started the Carport Project...turning it into our master bedroom/bath/office area. We are just the type of people that need a little time motivation!

We still need prayer and guidance on our Annapolis, MD property. We had some renters that left us with a mess. It's on the market, but probably will result in a short sale. It would be such a blessing to get that situation out of our lives before Myla is born!

More later...

More Progress on Kitchen

2010-02-22T23:28:00.003-05:00

Johne came over today on his day off to help Scott with the opening and installing the header...needed to keep the roof up! He pretty much worked all day by himself getting ready before Scott could break free from work. Then they knocked it out from 5-9pm. It looks so great. I'm so thankful Scott has such a vision for things. Also, the electrician has started on the electrical and it should be done tomorrow. The pictures are a little messy, but thought I'd pass along the progress.

Tyler and I spent the afternoon at Johne's house and Tyler took a nap on a big boy bed! My little man is growing up! We then spent the rest of the night at the grocery stores...yes, I go to 2 grocery stores to help save on certain on-sale items! Tyler was such a trooper and we had a good time...the space jam tape is on constant repeat...yes, I said cassette tape and repeat...which means I rewind the song over and over again. I think he's trying to memorize the words. He dances to the beat, and mumbles and talks to himself throughout the song. Everybody get up, it's time to space jam...get your chance, do your dance at the space jam...alright! His terrible 2's really come out if I try to turn the volume down or eject the tape. He also tells me the moves he wants me to dance...such as "get low mommy" or "raise the roof" It is quite cute, until he screams for more.

Great Grandma is here...and she brought snow!

2010-02-16T13:27:00.009-05:00

My grandma made it down to visit last week, she was stuck in Des Moines one extra day because of snow and wind in Iowa and Chicago. Everything worked out though and the airline gave her an extra day in Savannah. She will be here until Friday and we are really having a great time, and I'm definitely keeping her busy (and Tyler too!) She's already babysat for me 2-3 times now as I went to the dentist, took Chance to the vet, and a doctor's appointment. I think Tyler is really getting used to having her around and always asks, "where she go?" when she leaves the room. I sent the itinerary to her before she left and we've pretty much stuck to it. We have wiggled around Johne and Jenny's schedule to fit in dinners and time together. Grandma cooked us all a lovely dinner of meatloaf, au gratin potato's, and corn Friday night. Savannah was also getting excited about having SNOW for the first time since 1986! Grandma, however, was grumbling for hours, not wanting to look outside. Too bad though because we had to drive home in it. We stopped at the movies to get tickets for the next night and the people at the theater had just gotten out of their movie and were just going crazy taking pictures and loving the sight of snow! Grandma was still grumbling. It didn't last long and did not stick. The next morning the evidence was pretty much gone. Saturday night Johne and Grandma watched Tyler while Scott and I enjoyed a Valentine's Date night, dinner and a movie (a gift from Grandma). Sunday we spent the whole day at church it seemed, bible study with the pastor's wife, service, and then small group that night. Scott took off yesterday to go to Michigan for his cousin's funeral, he died of cancer last week, so grandma is staying with me a few extra days and then with JJ the rest of the week. We went to story time today and have been to soft play a few times to help tire Tyler out. She got some pictures developed today at Jenny's store. We've both enjoyed quite nap times and grandma spent the afternoon with Jenny yesterday looking and thinking about garden stuff for their yard. Johne has tomorrow and Friday off and Jenny has Thursday off...so it's good timing for grandma to move out of our house into their house for a few nights. The days go fast and it's so nice having the extra hands and eyes around the house to help with Tyler and all my crazy nesting projects for the past week. So far I've cleaned out all of Tyler's old clothes, blankets, and some stuffed animals, sold the rocker and his old crib bedding set...all going towards the purchase of Myla's new bedding! I've obviously changed my color selection for the nursery...uh um...Amy. Amy gave me quite the lecture on how her niece was not going to have a red wagon boyish room. Who knew red was for boys??? Anyways, after pages and pages of crib bedding this caught my eye. It's light and fresh, some pink and lots of white...and it's all handmade. It's not official yet, but I think the plans are in the work to get this ordered from the company that makes it through Rob and Amy's store. Still trying to figure out and color for the walls....any suggestions? Anyways, I've given most of the clothes to friends that have boys or going to have a boy. I'm trying to sell a few other things and if not...knowing that they are out of the house is a great feeling. Today and tomorrow I'm going to work on donating old books to the library and organizing old pictures and keepsakes (it's so hard to know what to keep and what not to keep!!!) I'm in a clean out mode, less is more, but battling the Bowers side of Scott is tough, who wants to keep everything. Good thing he's gone right now...heehehee! J/K.

We've been having quite a bit of computer issues the past week or so...with viruses and at one time didn't have any computer working. Also the last couple of weeks have been pretty busy, with the kitchen renovations, interim kitchen set up (dishwasher and homemade sink base, griddle, and old range in middle of kitchen floor). But we are getting by, a little frustrated cooking at times and a little cluttered, but I'm trying to be patient so we can get everything done correctly and save as much money at the same time. I am very excited about the kitchen getting done and the opening into the living room is so nice, I love being able to look out into the living room and see the view. More on all that another time!

Kitchen Progress...Phase 1

2010-02-01T08:16:00.004-05:00

Many things were done this weekend for our kitchen project while Tyler and I hung out with Grandma and Grandpa all weekend...staying out of the mess and out of the way. Friday night Scott removed everything from the kitchen and after a long days work Johne came over at 10pm to help remove the 1952 Beauty Queen Porcelain sink! VIDEO.

Saturday morning Scott continued to remove the tile and plywood from the floor to get ready to tile. We decided on the faux travertine that we have in our bathroom...I love it because it looks clean when it's clean and clean when it's dirty...he he.

Saturday our neighbor Dennis came over to inspect the progress and encouraged Scott to use some of the beautiful solid 1inch thick floor to replace the the hole in the living room where the oil burning furnace used to be. Then when Scott said there is no way I could do it...he offered to do it! He spent all day removing floor from the kitchen and around the patch in the living room. The result was quite amazing and we are speechless really!! We are so grateful for his talent and wiliness to use his whole Saturday to help in our little project! Johne and Scott continued to get the floor ready to tile. There was a lot of water damage where the sink was so they had to replace some of that floor and other patches where the pantry wall used to be. Sunday morning tile, mortar, and spacers were purchased and the first tile was laid! Scott discovered these new spacers that space perfectly AND level the tiles! Scott and Johne worked all day Sunday and tiled the whole floor. We had some debate as whether to tile the whole space or leave some of the hardwood showing in the dining table area. We are happy so far with the decision to tile everything and make it all one surface. It makes the kitchen look like a big spacious kitchen, then again there are no cabinets or appliance in there yet.

Next on the list is to Grout, set the electrical, drywall patch, paint, wall oven cabinet, dishwasher installed, new sink base and sink hooked up (still have to figure out the how and what), refrigerator and pantry back in the kitchen. The rest will have to wait piece by piece as it comes...especially the tough and expensive decision on coutertops.

All in all I am very excited and have lots of HOPE that it will be close to complete before Myla comes in May! Some say I'm nesting already...well, there is a lot on my list...still need to paint and do Myla's room, I'd like to re-do Tyler's room AND get the living room painted. We need to replace the big windows in Tyler's room and the Living room too. So much to do. I guess I will have to be patient, we've only been living here for 3 years now...I could wait on a few of those things for another 3 years....I guess!

Kitchen Project

2010-01-26T20:33:00.002-05:00

My dad came down to Savannah with a mission...to help us with the kitchen and that's what he did! The pantry is GONE! I'm happy, but also wonder how long it will be before I get a functioning kitchen again. We are only hoping to do Phase 1 (meaning...no new cabinets) but new floor (do ourselves), paint, and arrange kitchen to be what it is going to be once we get cabinets and new countertops. I'm hoping to get everything back in the cabinets and out of the living room tonight.

Patience!

We are having a blast with my dad here in town, we are putting him to work with trim at Johne's and the kitchen at our house. They did go golfing on Saturday! Otherwise just hanging out. I think he is a little hesitant on going back to -2 below Iowa weather. But you know how it is...you have to go back home sometime!

Half way there!!

2010-01-12T21:28:00.005-05:00

We've passed the half way mark and can't wait to meet our little girl in 4 1/2 months! I'm really trying to take it all in and enjoy feeling her little kicks! I can't believe how exhausted I get picking up Tyler's toys makes me as my belly grows more and more (I'm only 1/2 way there!). Tyler has been so great and so much fun. He is talking more every day and is so proud of himself. Nap and bedtime with Tyler is quite the process...the same 4 books consisting of 3 train books and Clifford book. And then he always asks me to sing to him. So while he stands in his crib he puts his head on my belly and I sing He's Got the Whole World and use mommy and daddy, tyler scott shippy, and little tiny baby in his hands. He really loves it. Sometimes when I point to my belly and ask him to say goodnight to the baby he points to my "other bumps" and says baby baby. It's so funny and sweet!

Anyways, I thought I'd humor you and document my belly shots:

Here is the 20 week belly shot of me with Tyler (above July 2007) and 21 week belly shot with baby girl (Jan 2010). I think the belly's look pretty similar...but I feel so much bigger faster this time around. I was surprised to compare the two pictures. This is my first belly picture I've taken this pregnancy! With Tyler I had one at 12weeks and 16 weeks by now. Oops, I guess that's the way it always is with your second! Scott has helped me finally make a solid decision on our name for our baby girl. It's been tough because one of the criteria I try to accomplish is that it can only be spelled one way. Everyone I ask spells it wrong the first time until I tell them how I would spell it. Scott really likes it and that makes it really special. So.....here it is (and some already know)....

Myla Jo Shippy

It's a ......GIRL!

2010-01-10T15:55:00.006-05:00

This week has been a crazy week! Starting with the news that we are having a little GIRL! We told the lady that no one would believe us, so she took some extra "proof" pictures. We are so thrilled to bring a girl into the Shippy side of the family...first since Scott's uncle Leonard had Sara...who I think is Scott's age. Anyways, my mom likes to remind me that my brother was the first boy in her moms side of the family in like 100 years...so I'm sure she shares some of the excitement for the Shippy's. After dinner on Monday night (when we found out) I insisted we go to Target to buy our little girl her first outfit. It was so much fun looking at all the girl stuff. I found this outfit! She is going to be a little Mayflower! I had trouble deciding whether to get newborn size clothes or 3M...Tyler was 9lbs 9 oz...I was 7lbs 13 oz when born and Scott was like 9lbs 15oz. So, being that it is a girl and she is measuring right on schedule she will probably be more my weight...but I want her to wear the outfits longer than Tyler wore his newborn outfits. The up to size on Newborn is 8.5lbs. Also, Aunt Jenny already added to her wardrobe with these cute onesies and my friend Sarah gave her the ice cream onesie and little shorts. I'm a little worried about getting bombarded with pink...but I've decided that we are going to decorate her room in Red, White, and Mocha. I'm going to keep everything basic solids and maybe stripes.

I also found an ITZBEEN at Target that night for a great deal! It's a timer system/night light that helps you with breast feeding, diaper changes, sleep times...etc. So excited! As you can tell...it definitely made for some excitement in our home!

Scott was really moved by the realization that he was going to have a girl. Today he said, while watching Tyler run crazy back and forth across the living room jumping on the 2 chairs, "what is a girl going to do?" I replied, "follow her older brother around and do whatever he does!"

Later that week...I was struck down by the cheeseburgers at McDonald's...or something. I ended up going to the ER to get some fluids pumped in me because I knew I was getting too dehydrated. I'm not usually one to go to the Dr. or ER, but this was for our baby girl. Everything was fine and I was feeling back to myself later the next day!

December and Resolutions....

2010-01-02T13:06:00.009-05:00

Where did December go...and why have I been such a slacker on blog updates? First, time just never stops, and second, I guess facebook keeps me distracted....oh and Tyler.

Thanksgiving was great with my parents in town and Johne and Jenny hosting...it was fun hanging out cooking, bickering, and being lazy...until Tyler threw a tantrum that is...first couple days without a paci was pretty traumatic. We had a simple meal with few leftovers. Mom, Dad, and Bert the dog stayed with Johne and Jenny...but visited our house often when Johne and Jenny had to work their retail holiday rush. We just loved having them here...they got to see Tyler play with his new fishing pole (which was accidentally dropped in the river 2 days later), get a family photo taken...with the dog, dad went fishing with Scott, the girls and Tyler went shopping at the outlets...we had a great visit.

December 11th and 12th Scott and I went to Charleston for the weekend for his high school buddies wedding. We had a great time sleeping in, watching real cable TV, and of course attending a beautiful wedding, rehearsal dinner party, and send off brunch! Jenny helped with Tyler on Friday and Grandma and Grandpa had him Friday night and Saturday night.

Tyler's family stocking is done!!! And as you can see I am the only one left to get one made for me...I've heard Mom Shippy has started on it already this year! So exciting...aren't they gorgeous!

Our main gift this year for all of our family was a Weather Stick. We got one last year and love it. It really reacts to changing weather. Go here is you want to learn more about them. I hope they hang them up soon...or already have...let me know!!!

Christmas was so much fun this year with Tyler. He really enjoyed all the opening and chaos of Christmas. It was tough to keep him focused on opening more presents because he was so into the one he just opened. Christmas Eve at Scott's parents was like a whirlwind from dinner to opening presents chaos. I really don't know who got who what this year...and it was especially confusing helping Tyler open all of his gifts and keeping track. We ended up taking pictures and even putting some of the unopened toys in the closet for a rainy day...to spread out the fun. On the top of Scott's wish list was a framing nailer (Lord help us), fishing poles and supplies, lots of tools, and a shovel...that Santa brought him. My wish list granted was a label maker, electric skillet, $ for our kitchen, fruit bowl (awesome wooden one from Jenny), and pyrex glass storage dishes with lids. Tyler got a train set, little people car set, 30 some hot wheels, a Dr. box gift set, train table from Santa, another fishing pole (which he will not let go of...it goes on car rides with us), a little TYLER step stool, a bag of balloons, look and find book, fishing game, and so much other stuff, I can't keep track.

We were so blessed this Christmas and I had a blast shopping for everyone...maybe too much! I loved having a get together with my nephews right before Christmas to get any last minute requests and learn about what they are up to. Matthew mentioned the Flat Stanley chapter books he's reading and a scorpion lego kit he wanted. I finally found what I thought he might be talking about and sure enough right after he opened it he ran over to me and said....I'VE BEEN WANTING THIS!!! I was so excited that I got the right one! James says he loves football so I got him and Tyler matching Football long sleeve shirts and he is reading Stuart Little books, and Andrew loves the CARS disney theme so I got him a CARS race track.This was really the highlight of my Christmas this year...besides making Tyler so excited and happy. and Scott was like a little boy when he saw a shovel next to his stocking.

We had Christmas lunch at Johnny and Jenny's house with her parents and brother who came down again this year for Christmas. We had ham, roasted red potatoes, corn, cheatin bread, and strawberry spinach salad. 2 of the items came from Scott's side of the family and the roasted red potatoes from Aunt Carla in Iowa. Gifts were fun too...Scott got a new small shop vac, $ for the kitchen, a coffee cup and pen with Tyler's picture on it, and we got Johne an air compressor with brad nailer (within 3 days Johne called and said he almost has all the trimmed nailed in!) We really searched for this item...taking 3 of them back trying to find the best deal...lots of effort for 1 gift for him!)

Later that day we went to Rob and Amy's for yet another Christmas dinner. It was really amazing food and it was fun seeing Tyler play with his cousins and follow them around for a few hours. They are so good with him and love playing with him and making him laugh.

We had company to bring in the New Year from Atlanta. Jan, Clete, and 4 month old Chloe came to visit. Clete wanted a Low Country Boil (1 pot=red potatoes, sausage, shrimp (and corn) and 1 can Old Bay Seasoning). It was pretty good actually...usually it weirds me out everything cooked in one pot of bowling water. We had great desserts as well. Scott's parents joined us and brought Chess Bars, I made a chocolate pudding pie and cookies. By 10:30 Scott's parents had left and we all were ready to hit the bed...with kids...sleep is just a little too precious these days. We were all out by 11pm. It was 12:00am somewhere though!

And now to Resolutions:

1. Blog once a week...so I don't feel I have to do my monster blog updates anymore...that take an hour or so...the time really adds up.

2. De-Clutter...with baby coming in May...we need some room.

3. Weekly meal menu...this one is to please Scott. I know it's not that hard and they don't always have to be big huge meals...but a plan is the plan. I know I can do it!

Happy New Year Everyone!

Christmas Card 2009

2009-12-21T00:04:00.003-05:00

Christmas 2009

Tis the week before Christmas and lines are slow;
The fed raised the rates at the Gov. P.O.
As the stamp prices soar the walls go bare
As more and more families send Christmas e-mail-air.

For us this year passed many momentous occasions
Each more outrageous and with more fascination.
…Month #1 we had Granddad in town;
No snow to show so Granddad had to go.
Took Tyler on a trip to the big city from small town
The A-T-L aquarium was one to astound.

Soon after, a Spring break trip to Myrtle Beach!
with Grandma and Grandpa S. we leached!

In June our 4 year ticker came.
A sound reminder of our love and Scott’s game.

For our home this year, a brand new bathroom.
No more avocado green, mold, and gloom.

Tyler, of course, we cannot keep up.
From nursing to the bottle to the sippy cup.
From just steps to a straight out sprint;
This kid can hit a ball, throw, bunt and kick!
His words have escalated from one or two;
He now converses, shakes hands and hugs you.

No year complete without a wedding or two;
Jenny sealed the deal and made Aunt Jenny for real!
With Tyler the ring bearer all was well
Until someone let Scott toast them swell.

Down south we love to get visitors to see;
And this year Cousin Jimmy came to see me!
Even Aunt Carla and Uncle Chuck made it by
So we cleaned up the house and she whipped out a pie!

Soon after, off to Iowa I went
With Tyler, his 5th free ride on a Jet!
Great Grandma threw Tyler a GREAT BIRTHDAY PARTY!
With Fire trucks and friends he turned two alrighty.

No turkeys were spared for Thanksgiving this year.
From Iowa, Grandma and Granddad A. came here.

….and this just in COMING SOON! COMING SOON!
Tyler in May will be a big brother…KABOOM!

This year we are spending Christmas in Savannah
With our new tree, gifts, and Tyler might seek Santa
The forecast is 64 degrees and a chance of rain…oh boy
Not like the white Christmas many of you will enjoy.

We hope your year has been as blessed as ours has been.
Remember the true reason for the season.
God sent His son for YOU!
Cherish this gift and share it with a few!

Merry Christmas!

Love,
Scott, Carrie, and Tyler
(and Chance, the cat)

Happy Birthday Tyler! (25th!!)

2009-11-26T10:01:00.005-05:00

I can't believe I missed Tyler's birthday post! Well, we've celebrated in Iowa and Savannah now. We went to Grandma and Grandpa's here in Savannah for a taco/Mexican dinner, presents and cake/ice cream! Tyler got so many more great things including a new giraffe pillow and blanket embroidered with his name on it from Grandma S.! A 3 hole putting golf course from Uncle Rob, Aunt Amy, and cousins. A Lego dump truck from Matthew. A new Little Einstein Tub toy from Grandpa S. A Hot Wheel's Big Wheel from us, and a bubble blower lawn mower from Uncle Johne and Aunt Jenny!!! He go to wrestle with his 3 cousins and no one got hurt! His cousins love him so much and were gentle...at least for now!Yesterday on his actual birthday...mom took Tyler to the Outlets!!! Oh, and we forgot snacks and a stroller...oops! Grandma treated him to a rental stroller that was a CAR and he had a blast!!!

I am so proud of my 2 year old! He has developed into such a sweet fun loving boy that never ceases to amaze me and make me smile. He gets cuter and cuter every day! He has gone almost 48 hours without the sight of a paci. Last night was a little tougher to get him to sleep. My strategy is to get him really tired...let him stay up a little later so he'll just sleep. Last night we might have pushed that button. I've decided, even though Scott thinks it's unreasonable, to just go cold turkey and out of sight out of mind. I'm really hoping today's nap goes well though...cause I need a nap...we may just have to snuggle!

He's saying more and more words everyday.

doot=coat
sssss=snack or sucker
um=cat (don't know where that came from but it may be him saying meow backwards??)
calls all animals by the sound they make (ruff, moo, neigh...etc.)
Loves Little Einsteins...
Loves books
book=book (we got that one right)
unc=uncle
dadada=granddad
bish=fish
mulk=milk
shoes=shoes

He LOVES to Fish and go on the boat with his daddy. Play golf around the yard. He is still loves to torment the cat on a daily basis. He loves to watch Curious George in the morning. He eats banana's, grapes, applesauce, green beans, shrimp, fish, chicken, hot dogs, CHEESE, milk, apple juice, yogurt, chips, fries, chips, suckers, mac n cheese, bread, crackers, short bread cookies, cake, raisins, pizza, anything with cheese on it...hmm...that's about it. I feel like he eats the same thing everyday, but at least i give him a daily vitamin.

Happy Birthday my little boy.
I will love you forever,
I will like you always,
as long as I'm living,
my baby you'll be. (from a book but I sing it to him pretty much every night!)

Love,
Mom

Tyler's Birthday Party

2009-11-16T13:45:00.005-05:00

Tyler's Great Grandma threw him a firetruck birthday party yesterday. It was so much fun. His friend Karly was there and her little sister Brooke. His cousin Arianna was there along with all his Great Aunt's Carla, Chris, and Debbie and uncles Chuck and Tony, Grandma and Granddad, and Uncle (cousin) Jimmy and Ginny. Greatma's friends Mildred, Gertrude, and Dorothy even came! Gertrude made Tyler his birthday cake! It tasted so good! We had party music going such as Great Balls of Fire, The Electric Slide, and the Twist.I read the kids a firetruck book complete with real life effects (fire truck noises). We blew up 15 balloons for the kids to bat around and boy was that a hit! We danced, sang Wheels on the Bus, sang happy birthday, ate sloppy joe's, chicken nuggets, and yummy homemade cake.Then we opened some wonderful birthday gifts that included books, firetrucks (remote control, push, little people w/legos), a fishing pole, coloring mats, new footy PJ's, a nice collared shirt with jeans, candy land shapes game, and $5!!!!

We really had fun being with family and friends.

We even revealed some exciting news...........Tyler is going to be a big brother in May 2010. His t-shirt says, "My mom went to the OB....(a picture of 12wk ultrasound) and all I got was this stinkin' t-shirt." On the back it says COMING SOON MAY 2010. Rated G.

Tyler even points to the shirt and says baby. Although he has really no clue what all of that really means! May 25th is the due date. We've had 4 ultrasounds and even heard the heartbeat on Doppler at 10wks. We are very excited!

Still here!

2009-10-29T08:27:00.006-05:00

Wow...where does the time go? We have been having a blast here in Savannah and have enjoyed visitors from Iowa the last few weeks. My cousin Jimmy and his girlfriend Ginny came down and we entertained them with a taste of Savannah, some fishing, Tybee Beach, a Ghost Tour and of course River Street. A week later we did it all again with my Aunt Carla and Uncle Chuck (soon I will post a link to Carla's article about the trip) nothing like pawning off some writing to someone else. We even took a trip to Oatland Island (natural zoo) in Savannah for the first time. Tyler really liked it! It was a lot of walking though. Now Tyler knows what a wolf says....(hoooowwwwl at the moon). It's really cute to see him do it!

Last night we went to Patchville Halloween Event at Savannah Christian Church. There was WAY too much candy...but I really wish I would have stocked up on suckers though...seems to be Tyler's new favorite thing! We borrowed a fireman costume from his friend Coen (it was too big for him this year) and it is perfect on Tyler. At first putting it on was a little traumatic...but after I put a hose in his hand he was LOVING it!

Tyler is talking more and more each day. He finally says milk and more (he used to only sign those two) He still only signs all finished and thank you. We are working on it. He is really a sweet natured loving boy. Scott has been working really hard lately, always close to his phone anyway (addictive crackberry!) Scott and Tyler spend a lot of time together outside batting around balls, in the yard on the tractor lawn mower/sweeper and on trips to Lowe's of course. Tyler and I have many scheduled playdates, do errands together, push the elevator "butt" as he calls it. Pushing the button is a great thrill to a 2 year old! We hit the mall softplay at least once a week and we are still a regular at Kroger!

I can't believe he is going to be 2 in less than a month. He is at such a fun stage and I just love being his mom! Tyler and I are headed to Iowa in November and his Great Grandma is throwing him a fireman birthday party! Hence the fireman Halloween costume...why not double up? We are really looking forward to celebrating with friends and family. We are also getting his first haircut when we are in Iowa. Both Greatma and Grandma will be there to watch. Daddy has to stay back and work (plus I got my ticket with sky miles and Tyler is free until he officially turns 2 on Nov. 25th!) so he will see all the events via video camera!

Any questions?

Baby Shower in Atlanta

2009-09-23T06:14:00.005-05:00

We took a quick weekend trip to Atlanta this weekend for a baby shower. Our friends adopted a baby girl a month ago. Her name is Chloe Morgan. It is a really amazing story how God answered prayers and brought this baby to them after years of infertility. They were chosen by word of mouth and it was a private adoption. She was born August 18th and came home from the hospital straight to Clete and Jan's home. She is truly precious and a gift from God. It was great to see them as parents! Here is Tyler and I with the Chloe! and Jan and I at her baby shower above.

This week is a busy week as I prepare to take a MOPS trip to Nashville, TN. We leave Thursday 1pm and don't get back until late Sunday night. The boys will be home all weekend by themselves. Although I will miss them dearly, I am excited for this trip and getting away from home a few days to be a girl (not a mom, not a wife) just a girl!

On another note: I want to ask you all for prayer for marriages in general. It seems Satan is on the attack in Savannah and trying to destroy marriages. I pray that each married couple fights for their marriage and does not let the evil one get a foothold. I love this verse and live by it:

Ephesians 4:26-27 "In your anger do not sin": Do not let the sun go down while you are still angry. and do not give the devil a foothold.

We must pray for healing, repentance, and restoration in these marriages.

Labor Day Weekend Beach Trip

2009-09-11T06:55:00.002-05:00

Lots of Daddy time!

Summer fun looking forward to fall!

2009-09-03T11:50:00.007-05:00

Wow, even though I don't work and my child is not in school, I could definitely tell it was summer and am ready to fall into a routine. I'm hoping MOPS does that for me (it starts next week!). We've had such a fun summer and lots of activities. Tyler is so much fun and loves the outdoors, swimming and the boat. Everyday he amazes me, a few weeks ago I was sitting at my vanity getting ready and he took my deodorant and lifted up his shirt and pretended to put it on (just like mommy does). I laughed and almost cried at the same time...those are the moments that make me so thankful that I get to stay home with him!

Updates on Tyler (now 21 months old!!)

-says NO! (still kind of cute...but getting more defiant at the same time)

-says boat, duck, truck, calls a cat....oem (i practice me...ow) but he can't get it right

-says juice and goes to the refrigerator to get juice or milk out himself!

-throws cat food at the cat (gets a spanking!)

-loves tormenting the cat and giggles (yesterday he got bit though...to indentations of cat fangs (didn't break the skin though)
-I bought him a tennis racket and he hits balls all over the yard

-pretty good napper (~3 hrs from 12:30-3:30ish) uses his passie still for sleeping

-his first letter is O. he points out every O he sees on signs.

-we watch GPB everyday and learn letters with Wyatt...On Super Why!

-walk his stroller all over the yard.

-loves puddles and throwing rocks in them

-favorite food...CHEESE PWEESE!

-does great in the nursery at church...jumps into the persons arms when we drop him off...but gets impatient if we take too long picking him up...because he can see other kids are being picked up.

-wears size 8 shoes now and wears 2T clothes

-smells with his nose when he "signs" flower

-blows his nose when we tell him blow...that is huge!

-i just bought him size 5 diapers! at his 18month visit he was off the charts for both weight and height. most people can't believe he's not 2 yet!

-getting better everyday about letting me brush his teeth!

Anyways, we also been going on bike rides and even a family bike ride one Saturday morning. We've had many dock parties with volleyball, water skiing, fishing, Scott even got his sunfish sail boat in the water once (then it rained). We really enjoyed being at home and playing outside this summer! The only traveling we did was our tennis weekend getaway. Tyler and I ventured to Statesboro to Splash 'n the Boro and chilled out in the lazy river.

MOPS starts next Tuesday and I'm so excited for what God is going to in our group! We have such a strong leadership team and so many awesome women! I'm also glad Tyler's nap schedule conforms this year to the time frame. I'm playing women's doubles on Thursday mornings thanks to my babysitting co-op. Every Thursday I have from 8:30 -12 without Tyler...except the 4th Thursday where I watch all the kids! It's really fun and great for me, especially with tennis!

This fall we have a lot going on:

-MOPS and MOPS convention in Sept in Nashville, TN

-Aunt Carla and Uncle Chuck visiting in October

-possibly cousin Jimmy and Ginny visiting in October

-Tyler and I going to Iowa in November (before he turns 2...and using my sky miles!!)

- Grandma and Granddad A. and Bert(dog) coming for Thanksgiving!

-Scott's best buddy Tim getting married in December!

Lot of life to look forward to! I love it!

Weekend Getaway!

2009-08-16T17:26:00.005-05:00

(we are the team on the left!)
Scott and I took a trip to Augusta, GA this weekend for my mixed doubles state tournament. We decided to take the trip without Tyler (thanks to the help of his parents!). We had a really great time hanging out with my doubles partner and his girlfriend. We met lots of people from different teams and had a really great time just being together! We went out to eat Saturday at PF Chang's...it was so good! I love the lettuce wraps! My partner and I won four out of five matches...we lost today...guess we were getting tired! We even got to play on stadium court until it started raining! It really made me motivated to get in better shape and play more tennis. Did I mention we had a GREAT time???

We definitely missed Tyler though and can't wait to see him tonight! I heard him saying mommy and mama on the phone and it made my heart smile knowing that he still knows who we are and that he misses and remembers us.

A few hours later: Our homecoming was so heartwarming. When Tyler saw us he jumped out of his seat and hugged us and hugged us and hugged us some more. It was really sweet and it almost brought tears to our eyes. He was SO HAPPY to see us and be with us again. Everything about this weekend was perfect!

Firestation Field Trip

2009-07-21T22:00:00.005-05:00

WHAT A FUN DAY! Tyler was a little timid and didn't really want to participate that much...I had to be "crazy" mom to get these few photos of him and the fireman and firewoman. I tried several times to get him to work the fire hose and I also put him up in the truck to pretend drive (which he does ALL the time in our cars!) and he was too scared. :(. Overall a good experience and can't wait to do it again when he's older!

Tyler's Bathroom

2009-07-21T21:50:00.004-05:00

A LONG WAY from THIS:

Awesome Pictures

2009-07-14T21:02:00.003-05:00

Scott looks a little crabby, don't you think?
Tyler thinks bubbles taste good!

These pictures were taken by Kyle Johnson. They are quite amazing!

Flag and other randoms pictures

2009-07-03T14:56:00.006-05:00

We finally got our Flag up in front of our house, just in time for July 4th!

Tyler and I spend almost everyday at our neighbors pool. I can't believe I can actually let go of him in the water. We got this vest and some floaties from Rob and Amy, ones their boys used to wear. They work perfect and if I say to Tyler, "Do you want to go swimming?" He says, "Wee!" (he must speak french!) and then runs to get the vest on.He's also great at putting on the life vest when going onto the dock to do whatever kind of fishing he thinks he's doing. What a relief that he actually likes to wear it and he knows he has to put it on before we go on the dock.

Aunt Jenny took this picture of him while babysitting him one night. She also made a father's day card for Scott with this picture on it...very cute. He even wakes up now with bed head, he's getting so much hair! Almost time for a hair cut!

We find many turtles around our yard and walking across the street. I think we should put one of those signs up that says, TURTLE CROSSING. Here is one that Tyler found recently. I guess they are laying eggs because a few weeks ago I accidentally dug up some eggs in our flower bed.

I hope you all have a wonderful 4th of July holiday. You know where we'll be....on the water...I might try some wake boarding tomorrow and see how many times I can make a fool of myself!

June 26th was my birthday!

2009-06-29T07:46:00.003-05:00

I had a wonderful birthday day! It started early with breakfast with the best french toast at the Original Pancake House! Both my sister-in-laws were there, my brother, my mother-in-law, our 3 nephews, Scott's brother, and of course the three of us. It was so good! They even served a hot apple pancake for my birthday for all of us to share. It was just like apple pie! I really appreciated all of them getting up so early to celebrate with me, it was perfect. The rest of the day I went to a movie with a few friends and saw My Sister's Keeper and of course cried the whole way through the movie. I just finished reading the book so of course I had to compare. It was really good with only a few changes. I can't reveal anything else...otherwise I'd ruin it for everyone who wants to see it. Later that day I had some of my MOPS leadership team over to watch the sunset and eat dessert (which was a homemade birthday cake and they sang to me!). It was fun being around great friends. Scott was fantastic and let me hang out with my friends and took care of Tyler. He tried really hard to get me my birthday wish which was a new mailbox, but it just didn't work out...yet! My grandma sent me a great package with some summery fake flowers that I can put in a vase and they will stay pretty forever! And I also got lots of shopping money that I can spend on myself...hmmm...new tennis shoes, skirts, tank tops, summer dresses...YIPPEE! I am just so thankful for a great family and friends! I am truly blessed!

Father's Day

2009-06-25T21:12:00.003-05:00

HMMMM...oops missed the father's day post. We had a wonderful father's day here in Savannah with steak and potatoes at our house. I missed my dad in Iowa, but I know he had another great day on the golf course...probably day dreaming about his days to come lounging on the deck in the hot sun on his new green lounge beach chair. Scott's dad wasn't feeling great all day but toughed it out and came for dinner at our house. For father's day he got new brake pads installed on his car. Scott said, "if you were my son driving around on these brakes, you would have been grounded!" Scott took care of his dad by installing them himself in the hot hot sun. We love spoiling our dads. We are so blessed having such wonderful dads in our lives.

Tyler enjoyed yelling "daddy!" all day (like always) he can't seem to get enough of daddy time lately. They enjoyed some time on the dock fishing (Tyler's favorite) not so favorite when it's time to go in though (terrible 2's coming out). I know Scott is so proud to be his daddy and I'm so lucky to have him as a husband and father to our child!

Four Years...of Memories

2009-06-18T13:27:00.014-05:00

Today is our Anniversary! Four wonderful years, here are some of my favorite memories!

Year 1: (Picture of the house before we closed!)Our First Home together in Annapolis, MD. It was the best deal in Annapolis! Mom and Dad S visit and help us get started on home improvements by teaching us how to tile. The beginning and end of my tile career! Working hard on home improvements while hanging out with friends. Young married small group. Eating big dinners in front of the TV and having them devoured in less than five minutes! Renting movies from the Red Box. Going to Paris for New Years. Watching American Idol. My brother living with us for the summer. Riding our bikes to Hillsmere park. Putting the jet ski boat in the water to go to the city docks to have crab dip. Happy Hour with Guess the weight of the lobster and free appetizers from 5-7pm. M-F. (can't remember the name of the place??) Getting let go from Maytag together. White water rapids in West Virginia.

Year 2: My surprise 26th GOLDEN birthday with Mom A. and friends! Lobster season in the Keys with my brother. Transitioning from Annapolis-Savannah. Living with your parents. Lots of golf. Unemployed for 4-5 months. Buying an auction house in Ohio??? Spent lots of time in Ohio with Grandma B. Labor Day fun day on the water at Rob and Amy's Dock. Finding new small group, haunted house and spanky's outing. Securing new jobs in Savannah. 4 weeks of training in NY. Christmas in Iowa and then trip to the keys. Superbowl party with fun prizes. Got pregnant with Tyler. Mystery Dinner.

Year 3:

July babymoon to the Keys. The purple car. Remodeling carport into master bedroom/bath/office 3 months before Tyler was born. Knocking down the outside wall. Jackhammer going for 12 straight hours for the bathroom pipes! Tyler is born! Lots of guests (Mom/Dad A. and JJ)! New roommates, my brother and his fiance (now wife). Discovered overflowed septic tank that we didn't know we had? Lot of visitors and guests (Dad A, Chris, Greatma, Debbie, Mom A, Jill). Sold condo in Richmond. Went down to one income so I could stay home with Tyler. Dinner at 606 East Cafe...free babysitters at home.

Year 4: 10 year high school reunion in Iowa (Tyler crawls). Water skiing/wake boarding all summer long. Halloween with an 11 month old. Tyler's 1st birthday party. Christmas in Iowa and SNOW was on the ground for Christmas! Bringing in 2009 with Friends.Spring Break in Myrtle Beach with Mom and Dad S. Golf at The Wizard. Tyler's first Easter Egg Hunt. Johnny and Jenny's wedding in Iowa. Tonight we are baby-free with shopping, dinner out, sleeping in tomorrow thanks to Mom and Dad S letting Tyler spend the night.

I have had a blast these past four years and can't wait our fifth year even better. I pray that we always look to God for guidance in our marriage and parenting. I loved you then , I love you now and I love you always.

2 weeks of fun in Iowa

2009-06-01T09:27:00.019-05:00

Wow, I can't believe I've been here for 2 weeks. The time just flew by. and thanks to my awesome schedule organizer I really got to spend time with pretty much everybody. I can honestly say I am ready to go back home and I'm not really sad about it (although I'll miss everyone very much and I wish Tyler could be around them more often). I think in the past I used to come to Iowa to visit, but would leave feeling like I didn't do anything or see enough people. This time I booked the schedule in between Tyler's naps and I even got a few naps in myself! It was relaxing, exciting, fun, wonderful, and jammed packed with my friends and family. Tyler was so great and flexible sleeping in a new place here and there for naps and bedtime. We made it out to the farm for an overnight. We played in the yard and sprinkled him with water. He picked rhubarb with Greatma. And he accidentally stepped on the hose and sprayed his face...oops. He took naps in a church, at greatma's and at my friend Jill's. He switched bedrooms at my parents house after 1 week when Scott left. He really enjoyed sleeping in the same room with mommy...however my alarm clock knows me by name...so I woke up to "MAMA MAMA!" It was cute...but 6:00am! Come on! Tyler has a new hobby of stacking old CD cases in different piles around the house...it was quite comical. I just hope my mom can find them all! Tyler was pretty good with the dog, we have to re-train him on not throwing his food on the floor again though. Bert was really good with Tyler ignoring slaps from Tyler's lovey and CD cases. I'm pretty sure Bert is ready for this toddler to leave him alone by now. I was able to do so much considering I had full time babysitters just waiting for me to ask. I was able to go out to eat with friends, play golf 4 times, type on the computer (right now my mom has Tyler doing errands), go to a movie with my grandma, plant flowers at the farm with my aunt Carla, and the list goes on and on. I really feel I got a break these past 2 weeks with so much help entertaining Tyler. We did things together as well like visit Aunt Debbie at her school, visit Greatpa Burt at the cemetery, go to softplay at Southridge Mall with greatma and her friends,

the zoo with Greatma, cousin Perry and Aunt Chris, the farm, playdates with friends, lots of bubbles with everyone everyday, writing with chalk outside, church at Hope Lutheran (he didn't even cry when I dropped him off in the nursery!), to my old elementary school's jungle gym, Norwalk park with Aunt Debbie, basketball and dinner with Aunt Chris and cousin Harrison, swimming at the Y, swimming at cousin Jimmy's work, again the list goes on and on.

As you can see we had a great time and I'm so excited for Tyler to have all of this excitement and adventure in his young age of 18 months.

Of course the main event was Johnny and Jenny's wedding (aka JJ's wedding). I will be adding more pictures to the previous post to keep it all together.

Johnny and Jenny...

2009-05-26T14:12:00.012-05:00

ARE MARRIED!!!

Here are just a few of the moments captured.

Waiting for JJ to come out.

What good looking men I have!Scratch off tickets in a magnet chip clip as Wedding Favors...brilliant.

Dollar Dance!

Tyler and me dancing!

This picture doesn't do the scenery justice.

It was a gorgeous reception at Echo Valley Country Club.

Matthew's Birthday Party

2009-05-17T12:53:00.010-05:00

We celebrated cousin Matthew's 8th birthday this week. We went out to Outback Steakhouse for dinner on his birthday day and then he had a swimming pool party yesterday. I can't believe my oldest nephew is 8 already. They all are getting so big and that means that Tyler must be getting big too! Tyler had a blast and LOVES the water. I really am grateful that we get to be here as they are growing up. It's fun watching them grow and mature and it prepares me for my future endeavours with Tyler. And gives me tons of ideas! I really love being close to Scott's family. Although I miss my family in Iowa terribly! We will be seeing them VERY soon. My brother is getting married next week. I am so excited for them to start the rest of their life together...officially!

Tyler is now saying (tr) UCK! He hasn't quite got the T sound out yet...but he's practicing! He is talking up a storm...we have no clue what he's saying but he sure has a lot to talk about. He must be teething or getting ready to because he has been drooling like crazy. He goes through at least 3 shirts a day because they get soaked. I guess he just hasn't learned to swallow his own spit yet! Otherwise he's sleeping so good at night, I never thought I'd get this much sleep after having a baby. I hope I don't jinx myself!

Mother's Day Poem

2009-05-10T12:15:00.006-05:00

Mommy,

Thank you for being a good
Mommy to me.
You teach me the animals and
what they say,
You show how to bark, moo,
meow, and nay!
When I poop in my drawers you
show me the way,
With a giggle and smile by with
my arm I sway.
You are so good to take me to
the mall,
On walks with ducks and birds
and clucks.
You play with me outside and
throw me the ball
When all Daddy will do is point
to my trucks.
I just love my Mommy with all
my heart.
And Mommy even laughs at me
even when I fart!

Love,
Tyler
2009

Grandpa's Birthday Surprise and Beach Weekend

2009-05-05T15:08:00.014-05:00

SURPRISE! We pulled it off...a surprise birthday party for Scott's dad. Well, neither of us can take too much credit for it. Amy, my sister in law did the majority of the planning and she did a fantastic job. Scott's mom had the toughest duty...keeping it a surprise! Denny's sister and her husband came in town for the weekend and were staying with them as well...so they had a Thursday night and all day Friday to keep the surprise. I was able to call him during the day to sing him happy birthday, but avoided any other conversation. I guess I helped a little by somehow making him think I was coming out to the beach with Tyler after he got up from his nap. Anyways, we all had him guessing! We served a Low Country Boil, coleslaw and a HUGE cake, which was devoured! We danced the electric slide, stomp dance, macarena, the twist...etc. We had a blast. Tyler had a blast as well dancing all the way up to the end.

Afterwards, we headed to Tybee Island and stayed at Scott's brother's beach house for the weekend.

If you can believe it, he kept those glasses on the whole time we were at the beach. He's still afraid of the ocean water coming in at him but he loves throwing shells and rocks in the water and he loved playing in the pools of water grandma made for him.

It was so nice and relaxing. During Tyler's naps I went up to the roof and fired myself like an egg. I wanted to get some color...but the sun was a bit stronger than I thought. We also played some Domino's...a family staple. I lost by 5 points to Aunt Rose. It was fun!
Some Grandpa and Grandson time on the porch.

It was truly a wonderful weekend, thanks to everyone who made it happen for Scott's dad!

Love,

Scott, Carrie, and Tyler

Gotta love softplay!

2009-04-28T12:23:00.003-05:00

Softplay just gives us moms a place to wear out our kids. Tyler loves it and then gets really tired and usually has a really good nap!

Hopefully some of my friends will send me some pics of MOPS Farm Day that I can post. We spent the day at the Life of Riley farm April 17th. One of our MOPS leaders family lives and runs a farm. We had a blast. We fed the horses whole pieces of bread, went on a hay ride, saw 100's of cows, colored chicks, bunny rabbits, squealing pigs, goats, a turtle and a dog that lives on the roof of the barn? Now Tyler knows what a horse says and what a cow says. Neigh and MOOO (just in case you forgot!). So cute. Pictures to follow soon!

Isaiah 40:31

2009-04-16T12:18:00.003-05:00

I asked God to give me comfort today when reading the bible. This is where He directed me. Isaiah 40:31

but those who hope in the Lord
will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles;
they will run and not grow weary,
they will walk and not be faint.

In the side notes of my Quest Study Bible it says this about hope.

What does it mean to hope in the Lord? (Isaiah 40:31)
The word hope implies both trust and patience. Trust involves confidence in God's power to deliver and faith that he will keep his promises. Hoping in the Lord also implies the patience to wait for God's promises since God works according to his own timing.

My Superhero

2009-04-15T11:04:00.002-05:00

We went to a superhero birthday party recently. We didn't really have an outfit, but I found some PJ's handed down from Tyler's cousins with an A (I think Alvin Superhero but not really sure). Anyways, Tyler had a blast...here he is carrying around a part to the swing set. When I first saw him with it, I thought it was a noose.

Isn't he a cutie?

Happy Easter...Myrtle Beach Trip

2009-04-12T19:49:00.014-05:00

Happy Easter everyone! Jesus has risen and is alive! We had a wonderful day today with a beautiful church service with a professional sand artist live at the church. After church we headed out to Aunt Amy's for a wonderful Easter dinner of lamb and crab cakes. We had great conversations and fellowship, the kids had an Easter egg hunt (Tyler needed some coaching...but started to get the hang of it), we watched the Master's on TV and searched for Uncle Rob and Grandpa but never could spot them among the huge crowds. The kids played with the bubbles that Grandma Easter bunny brought. Tyler's new word! He really loves the bubbles! We ate too much and then ate more desert and now we are home. Tyler is snug in bed and I've realized I haven't updated in weeks! We've had such a wonderful time the past few weeks...I've put the computer aside and really only checked my email once a day! It has been nice.

Last week we were blessed with a vacation with Grandma and Grandpa to Myrtle Beach, SC. We stayed in a hotel suite right on the ocean with a gorgeous view. Scott and I got the room with the view because it was the room with the pull out of the wall Murphy bed. So we got to wake up to the sunrise every morning! Tyler loved swimming in the indoor heated pool (somewhat heated). Daddy really won the prize of swimming with Tyler 3 days in a row!We both got to play 2 rounds of golf with Grandma babysitting Tyler (even though she had a sling on her arm protecting her recent shoulder surgery) she was such a trooper, we both appreciated her so much. Scott golfed on the coldest and windiest day, we both golfed on Wednesday at a course called The Wizard, and I golfed on Thursday (the nicest day!). We also went to the big Broadway on the Beach area where they had fun games and rides. We were trying to tire Tyler out this night. He loved the skee ball!

This vacation was the perfect distance away (only 3-4 hour drive), the perfect company, the perfect amount of nights (5 nights), and perfect relaxation and stimulation vacation I've had in a long time. We can't say thanks enough to Scott's parents for inviting us and treating us to such an amazing trip. We love you.

Love's Seafood...by Boat

2009-03-22T19:37:00.003-05:00

Scott and I were blessed with an invitation to dinner on Friday night to Love's Seafood in Richmond Hill, and we arrived there by boat. It was about a 40 minute boat ride there with only 1 wrong turn. We had to take a canal built by Civil War soldiers to get to the Ogeechee River from the water we live on. It was really amazing! Our neighbors wanted to test out their new boat...and their memories on getting there. We had a blast. The restaurant was great I ordered the salmon and they served a fillet big enough for 3 people! We had to kind of eat and run at the restaurant because we were getting low on sunlight and there was no moon out Friday to give us a moonlit ride home. It was getting pretty darn close to pitch black when we arrived home at 8:15pm. Our awesome friends Elisa and Greg held down the fort with Tyler and even put him to bed for us! We had such a great time. Once our neighbor figures out his camera I'm sure he'll send us the picture we took before we left and I will post it. We had to get bundled up because the wind on the boat made it a little chilly...but it was not too bad!

We took Tyler on another boat ride tonight and he seems to LOVE to do whatever daddy is doing these days so he really enjoyed it! The last time we took him when my dad was in town in January he whined and cried the whole time, this time he talked and pointed and made boat sounds. It was really fun. I really can't wait for summer now!

Tyler's Forehand

2009-03-19T20:49:00.003-05:00

We've had a tough week with Tyler being sick with something. I suspect spoiled milk? but who really knows. Anyways, he's doing much better. He had threw up on Tuesday and then had the runs for 2 days. He's still a little dehydrated but we are forcing liquids down him as much as we can. You wouldn't even be able to tell he was sick. I took a video of him (in his diaper) playing with his tennis racket and balloon. Watch this forehand...follow through and everything. Enjoy.

15 month Well Child Visit

2009-03-12T08:49:00.004-05:00

Tyler is maintaining his 91 percentile in both height and weight. He weighed in at 28.9 lbs and 33". Everything else looked great. He's saying a few new words: nana (banana) and Uh-Oh (very cute...at least for now), when you say cat or dog he clucks his tongue as if he is calling them. He knows what a truck sounds like (vrumm), and he signs please, more, all done, and milk. He still calls out every ball he sees, says dadda for both momma and dadda. Every time he see a white SUV he says dadda and points. He says and waves bye for both hi and bye. He eats with a spoon until he gets impatient and then uses his hands again. He still has 8 more teeth to come in. He LOVES the outdoors and kicks and screams when you bring him in even though the sand gnats have taken over our yard. He has a little badminton racket that he loves to hit balls with and throws them up to hit them. If you give him a balloon he'll play "tennis" with it for hours. He also has a tee ball that we got for Christmas and he'll put the ball on himself and bat it off, then chase it and put it back on and hit it again. He always claps for himself after he hits it!

Atlanta Trip...Aquarium

2009-03-08T20:21:00.005-05:00

We took a short trip up to Atlanta this weekend for our friends 40th Birthday. On Saturday we headed to the Atlanta Aquarium with Tyler and had a blast. Tyler really enjoyed looking at all of the fish and especially enjoyed the 3D movie with Deepo the fish. He looked SO cute in his 3D glasses and thought mommy and daddy looked really funny as well. We saw sting rays, whale sharks (HUGE), Baluga whales, and tons of other fish. I also enjoyed the Titanic exhibit with real life artifacts that were in the titanic and the stories behind them. They gave me a boarding pass with my name and brief history and at the end of the museum there was a wall with all those that survived and those that were lost. I survived as a first class passenger, but my husband did not survive. I also got to do a simulation of sterring the titantic and trying to steer it away from the ice berg (going the same speed as they were going and same distance). It was and ok exhibit, but probably not fit for a 15 month old. Scott was a good sport and drug him around and out of the exhibit only to think I had already left them...when I finally came out he had already told the lady at the front that he survived but his wife did not.

Saturday we had dinner at a Mexican restaurant for Clete's 40th birthday (I think our picture is on Facebook from the restaurant). We had a a good time with good friends.

Now we are back and need to catch up on our hour lost this weekend. Yea for summer coming!

Homeade Waffles

2009-03-01T10:25:00.005-05:00

Daddy treated us to homeade waffles this morning. I kept saying we were out of waffle mix, but Scott was determined to use that waffle maker that has been sitting idle for years! So he looked up a waffle batter recipe and mixed it all together and WHAM! We had waffles and bacon for breakfast. It was WAY too much effort for me, but that is my husband for you, he will always go the extra mile! And Tyler really loved them!

Later it was time to go play in the rain puddles. We had quite the thunderstorm this morning around 5am and Tyler loves to play in the puddles. Tonight we may even have SNOW!! Don't worry though, the temperature is only supposed to get to 35 so nothing will stick. But it sure has been a windy day...I think it has put Tyler in a trance for his nap today, I don't think he's even moved!

Tyler on the Rocking Horse

2009-02-21T14:14:00.002-05:00

This Rocking Horse came from our awesome neighbors who have a 9 year old son. It's really great to see how much fun he is having with it. He has climbed up all by himself before...to our amazement! He is really growing into a little boy!

because pics have been lacking...

2009-02-19T08:39:00.008-05:00

Adventures in Mothering

2009-02-17T22:34:00.003-05:00

Tyler and I had a great day today. Started off by heading to the local library for a little story time. Tyler didn't know what to think of it...and was pretty much hanging on to me the first 10 minutes. But it was really fun. Today's topic was ducks...which was perfect because it's his favorite song in the car: one little duck with a feather on his hat...he led the others with a QUACK QUACK QUACK! Anyways, after the story we did Head and Shoulder Knees and Toes. And then Where is Thumpkin? She read another story about ducks (both were counting stories). Then she got out the CD player and some music instruments and played the dance song FREEZE. The kids dance and get really loud with their tambourines, but then listen for the singer to say FREEZE. Tyler really liked that and I'm trying to teach him to shake more when he dances. There was a goodbye song and then it was time to get a sticker. Tyler didn't like the sticker though...he was the only one who cried. The other moms thought it was adorable. I thought it was jammed pack for 30 minutes of free entertainment. Anyways, we will definitely be back and we can't wait for the brand new library to open up (1 mile from our house!!!).

Then after nap time we headed out for some errands and stopped at McDonald's to enjoy his FREE small cone Valentine from a friend. He wasn't too interested in the cone...but enjoyed drinking the big boy water out of a straw. They have a play land, so I thought we'd check it out. We (14 month old and mom) scaled the play land up the circle twisted stairs and through many tunnels, steps, and obstacles and FINALLY went down the slide (which shocked us all the way down). I have to tell you I was getting a little claustrophobic while I was crawling through the tubes and tunnels. (I will have to take my camera and let you all get the full effect of what actually went down today). And Tyler would not go...so I had to push him along a little just to get out of there. I would say it was quite adventurous for me...and I will never do it again. I guess that's why it says ages 3-12. Maybe you can do it on your own in a few years, cuz this mom is not doing that again! He enjoyed it and thankfully he enjoyed chasing the birds more than doing the whole thing again.

And then yesterday was yet a whole other adventure of feeding the ducks, seagulls, and pigeons at Lake Mayer. Oh my...I really thought my/our life was in danger! I had 5-10 seagulls hovering right over my head (like 1-2 feet away, I could have reached up and grabbed them) and at the same time Tyler had these huge ducks with their beaks right in his face. I kept having to lift Tyler up and move him...and with the other 4 hands throw the bread crumbs every which way. It should have been a scene it a movie...it was pretty funny, but scary too. I was beginning to think someone was going to have to rescue us...I only had 3 stale pieces of bread! Tyler LOVED it and chased those birds every which way...laughing and screaming the whole time...he did not want it to end.

So much fun...and many memories.

Happy Valentines Day

2009-02-14T13:13:00.003-05:00

We had a wonderful evening ALONE! Yep, Tyler had his first overnight at Grandma and Grandpa's house (without mommy and daddy!). Grandpa picked Tyler up after he got off work around 4pm and then it was OUR time to enjoy doing things we wanted to do. This may not seem that exciting to anyone but we played tennis for over an hour (Scott's favorite!) and then ate some sushi (bought earlier in the day from our favorite place at lunch price menu!) all I did was put it in the toaster oven for 5 minutes and it was perfect! They were crispy salmon rolls...so they are served warm. Anyways, Scott got me my favorite Lindt milk chocolate truffles (he heard me gawking over a commercial!) and FREE set of pearl earrings! Oh, and a marriage proposal card...how sweet! Anyways, I made him 2 BIG Cookies and a homemade card. We then got showered and dressed and headed to Wal-mart to get a Red Box movie (we tried to rent Fireproof from Blockbuster but after 4 years of renting $1 video's you can't all of the sudden rent a movie for $5.02!!!! Can you believe what they are charging now! I'm sure I embarrassed Scott as we walked out of there without a movie). Anyways, we rented a great love story called Though none Go with me. It was a made for TV movie, but perfect for Valentines Day. And also Mama Mia (for $2.14), which we watched this morning after a full course breakfast cooked by my sweet husband! And then it was already time to go pick up our sweet child.

Even though it was a mere 8 hours of Tyler's awake time we didn't have him, it was so worth the ability to do what we wanted (after 8pm) and sleep in ('til 8am...wow) and then enjoy a morning breakfast together and a movie. You just can't do those things with a hyper 14 month old that wants your constant attention and needs to be fed, changed, and played with. Thank you to my awesome, fun, patient in-laws who agreed to take him for the night so we could enjoy Valentine's Day (1 night early) alone together.

When we picked him up he was happy as can be...he just sort of walked over to me and hugged me put was perfectly content. They said he did great and let them hold him and play and didn't get too whiny. I'm really happy it all worked out! And they said they didn't starve him, when we arrived he had a big string cheese in his mouth. I didn't have any doubts!

Thanks Lord for such awesome blessings and Happy Valentines Day to everyone!

Bullet Point Happenings

2009-02-09T20:43:00.005-05:00

* My good friends Sarah and Kenny had their baby boy on Wed. I got to see them at the hospital and now they are home and all are doing well. He is so sweet and can't wait to see more of him. (that's me holding the sweet thang!)

* Tyler is still only saying BALL...and now will wave bye...but only after the fact. He prepares WAY in advance for going down stairs. Like 10 feet in advance sometimes, it's pretty hilarious. He will even go down backwards over the tiniest little step. He loves the outdoors and just like any boy doesn't need any form of entertainment but nature itself. He already has eaten dirt twice! He found little red berries (don't worry I was watching him closely) and says ball. He loves the helicopters that fly over our house. He HATES loud piercing noises, including the door bell and runs and screams to mommy or daddy. His appetite is all over the place and can't really figure out what he likes or doesn't like because it's new everyday. So far what works best is banana's, grapes, canned green beans, cheesy eggs, graham crackers, anything sweet (of course), and good ol' oatmeal. He hasn't had a bottle in over a week now! He's drinking out of every kind of sippy cup and drinks best out of a straw. I still am horrible about brushing his teeth. He has cut his top molars (that was tough!). He still has extreme separation anxiety. He loves his rocking horse from our neighbors (video to follow) and can climb up all by himself. He is such a climber and thrill seeker. He has his 2nd cold in 2 weeks. URH! And he's developed quite the attachment to his lovey's and paci. It's really only right after he wakes up and wants to cuddle on the couch before playtime. When I get him out of the crib, he's already thrown both the lovey and paci out...so I just bring him straight to the living room. Not a minute goes by before he's back in his room grabbing them both from the ground and walking back in the living room to cuddle. It's pretty sweet! He will only do his #2 duty with a fresh diaper. So much for trying to save that pee diaper, just change it so he will get it over with before it's time to go!

* This is our Annapolis home that is on the market.

* Scott is doing great and is my rock during the uncertainties of the market and everything else. God is really putting the right people in my path to get through these trials and praying for us.

* Not really much going on....so that's why there hasn't been many posts. We are just kind of in a lull. We'll be back though!

Dad's visit/Annapolis House

2009-02-01T11:51:00.005-05:00

My dad came down last week to hang out with us. We had a great time, we had lunch down on River street on the coldest day in Savannah this year (I think) 30 something degrees. and then on Thursday Jenny came over and babysat while my dad and I went and played golf (I scored 107). Johne and dad spent the week installing new windows at their house and also played golf on Friday. Tyler came down with some type of cold/fever over the weekend. My dad came and watched me play tennis on Sunday. He left on Monday morning at 4:30am to get to Atlanta to play golf with a buddy. The life of a "independently wealthy" (minus the wealthy part) man! I'm so happy he's enjoying the retired life. Scott also brought him home an old scale from an office he calls on so he was excited to take that back home to Iowa. He drove through a few ice/snow storms to get back, so he said on Wed morning that he was getting ice chips off the scale (it was in the back of the truck). I hope it still works right! We had a great time with him here!

Scott is in Annapolis, MD right now working his tail off to get the house ready for the market. Our renters moved out last month and we have no choice but to brave the sunken market to get rid of it. We need lots of prayers that it sells quickly and for at least what we owe on it. I am so proud of Scott and all he can do in such a short period of time. I worry and pray for him that he stays strong and God keeps him encouraged and looking to Him for guidance.

Happy Birthday Honey!

2009-01-18T18:29:00.005-05:00

Today is Scott's birthday. We tried out the new "Japanese Fire" but WAIT...there was no fire. Miyabi is the newest Japanese Steakhouse in Savannah and they do not do the fire tricks! Can you believe it? Tyler was still pretty entertained and since we had 2 tables worth of family we had a shrimp tail food fight from across the tables. Then we went out to Scott's parents where we sang Happy Birthday and Scott opened presents. He got lots of good stuff including a cast iron grill weight and Staples gift card...to go towards a new laser printer....someday....some shirts and Balderdash board game.

For the 2nd time I attempted a caramel cake for Scott. He requested a 6 layer caramel cake, but I only made a 4 layer. It actually turned out pretty good, well at least they told me it was good. I even made extra frosting for Scott and his brother Rob...both have the biggest sweet tooth's I've ever seen! I have some tweaks I will do for next year...but Thanks to Paula Deen...it was a success!

Well, Happy Birthday honey...I love you! and so does Tyler!!

Hopefully I'll get some pictures up soon.

Christmas in Savannah

2009-01-06T18:33:00.009-05:00

We were able to celebrate our family Christmas at home in Savannah on Christmas night (we only have video of Tyler getting his basketball hoop from Santa and here are the Refrigerator magnets from us. We also had a few extra gifts from Santa for all of us. Scott and I got to enjoy the excitement of opening 2-3 gifts each from Santa. Scott and I both got a book, a weather stick, a ceramic dip bowl, and Tyler got a new outfit, a ceramic molding kit, and a stuffed camel and even Chance got some Friskies Steak Dinner! On the 26th we headed to Scott's parents to exchange gifts (before dinner) and then a fantastic Turkey dinner. It was good to be with another loving family. Tyler got many new toys and outfits. It was a little overwhelming opening the gifts for Tyler and for myself...don't get me wrong, it was fun...but easy to loose track who they were all from. Our family was definitely blessed this year.

I don't know what happened in Des Moines as far as family pictures go...but we didn't get one. BUT we did in Savannah.

Scott's camera alows him to take 3 pictures in a row on timer. He didn't quite make the first one...and here is the result...him flying through the air. I think it's pretty funny.

HERE IS A GOOD ONE!

Saturday night we got together with Johne and Jenny and her mom, dad, and brother who were visiting for Christmas since Jenny's work didn't let her have any holiday time off this year. They weren't able to go to Des Moines for Christmas but we did...how ironic is that?

Jenny gave us our first gift from Tyler...it was a clay hand print that she helped him do one day when she was babysitting him. It was really sweet and my favorite gift this year!

This year had a basketball theme for Tyler...he got a mini Leap Frog counting and letters basketball hoop from Santa in Iowa and then a real basketball hoop from Santa in Savannah and then this bathtime basketball hoop from Aunt Jenny and Uncle John-e.

Christmas Highlights

2009-01-02T13:05:00.027-05:00

Let me begin by saying this was the best Christmas I've ever had! Not because of the presents, but the time spent with family. And because we traveled to Iowa this year we got to celebrate 2 more Christmas celebrations that we don't get to when we stay in Savannah. I will highlight some of the best moments with pictures. My favorite part of Christmas this year was my dad. He made our stay in Iowa so wonderful, I can't thank him enough. He cooked "made to order" breakfast every morning and dinner every night...except one night when Scott and I had a date night.

Tyler did great on the plane...we lucked out with the entire back row for the long flight from SAV to Chicago. Here are a few cute shots.

Tyler, Grandma, and Max playing in the snow. (video in an earlier post) We visited Greatma's new senior living apartment. She sold her house of 52 years in December after having a sign in front of her house for 5 days (FOR SALE BY OWNER). If that's not God's calling I don't know what is! Anyways, Tyler spent quite a bit of time there when Greatma and Cousin Perri babysat while I went to the Drake vs. Iowa basketball game. They all had a great time and were even successful at getting Tyler to take a nap. Very impressive. When we got back he was happy as can be playing with a ball in the living room. I am very happy with where my grandma lives now, she is safe, has a garage, neighbors all down the hall, the apartment is spacious and all one level. We are very excited for her.

Greatma wanted a day to spend with both of her Great Grandkids and so we took a trip up to Great Aunt Carla's farm and spent the day. Here is a special picture of Great Grandma, Lindsay and Tyler all on her lap. They played catch with a ball, watched the hopping snowman fall off the table, played "This little piggy" with Tyler's toes, read books, and went sledding. It was really fun seeing my cousin Andy and his wife and talking about parenthood. Lindsay is 17 months so only 4 months or so older than Tyler. So they are just steps ahead of us...it was fun to see what we can look forward to. Lindsay speaks both English and Spanish and I think that is so cool. Tyler received his first kiss...yes, from a cousin.Both Lindsay and Tyler went sledding for the first time. I think Lindsay liked it better than Tyler. Daddy and son in the open country on sled in Iowa. POOPED OUT! What a fun time at the farm!We are all ready for Christmas Eve celebration at Great Aunt Chris and Tony's. But first we must stop at Pal's.Christmas Eve Night: Recently we have changed from giving many gifts to everyone and opening them 1 AT A TIME to a White Elephant Gift Exchange. I miss the old way, but maybe that is because my brother and I were the only kids and the ones that always had the most presents. When John-E and I were really young the gift opening would last hours and had snack intermissions. Then as we got older and the family started drawing names and now we are down to only white elephant gifts. Anyways, it's a smart way, none of us NEED anything and the fun of family is all that really matters anyway. I will still treasure those memories forever. Especially a themed Christmas like when Uncle Chuck got a ton of boxer shorts and grandma a ton of ear muffs. I think my grandpa got a ton a one thing one year, but I can't remember what it was...any help family?

So this year Tyler and Lindsay got the illegally bought gifts...since they are just babies. They both got a monkey and lots of books. And a few others gave out small gifts as well. It was fun...and I sure hope we continue to break the rules.

The youngest families. We were both married in the the same month and had our first child 4 months apart!

Below is the pile of White Elephant gifts. I drew the best number of all...the last one!! I ended up getting to unwrap 2 presents and choosing one for my parents to keep and one for my parents to keep. One was a dirty ol' picture frame with bugs and cobwebs on it (Thanks Chuck), and the other was another laptop bag with a $1 bill inside. This year there were 3 laptop bags...so next year we may just have to ban them! We ended up with a cheated bought gift that Great Aunt Chris bought that was a toy for Tyler...a baseball tee ball and bat. He loves it! Uncle Chuck got our one of our gifts that was a cordless phone with answering machine...and the joke was it had all my recorded messages on it. And then it was time for the annual Girls against Guys Trivial Pursuit. Guys win again. OOPS clarification...Guys won this year but Girls won last year (I wasn't there...maybe that's why we won?). It was a little tougher this year concentrating...with Tyler and it getting late for him. Christmas Day Dinner at my parents with my Grandma, Aunt Debbie, cousin Jimmy and his girlfriend Ginny.And then soon after dinner...we were packed up with 1 extra suitcase and headed back to the airport for a day of uneventful travel. We had 3 quick flights with 3 quick layovers. Tyler slept the first flight and the last flight and was really good on the middle flight. Scott's parents picked us up at the airport on Christmas night. We made it!

Next post...Christmas in Savannah.

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

2009-01-01T00:19:00.004-05:00

Here's to a great 2009. Farewell 2008!

We were blessed to spend the evening with friends, watching fireworks from our dock, and toasting in the new year. I'm really excited for 2009, especially my brothers wedding in May. And everything that Tyler will have in store for us in his toddler years.

MERRY CHRISTMAS!

2008-12-25T23:42:00.003-05:00

We made it back to Savannah! We had such a wonderful time with family and friends back in Iowa and even in the cold and snow. I really enjoyed a good ol' fashioned Iowa Christmas.

More on our trip later...need sleep!

It's COLD here!

2008-12-20T21:24:00.007-05:00

This is Tyler's first experience actually playing in snow and he is with Grandma and our 15 year old dog, Max. She even attempts to make a Tyler Snow Angel. I think he is thinking, "What are you doing to me? Get me back inside!"

We are having a great time here, today I went to the Drake vs. Iowa men's basketball game with my mom. It was an exciting game as Drake won 60-43. My grandma and cousin, Perri babysat Tyler while Scott and my dad lounged around home all day. The temp dropped 10 degrees and the wind picked up 20mph while we were inside during the game. We are under a wind chill advisory. We are definitely getting a change of season from sunny mild temp Savannah to wintery COLD Iowa! It really makes it feel like Christmas time though!