The Henderson Family

We have cabinets!!!

2012-01-31T18:08:00.001-05:00

Cabinets are in!!! 1 month from final walk-thru (oh, and a couple of pics of Ellie Mae)!

January Updates

2012-01-25T10:22:00.006-05:00

I cannot believe we are almost at the end of the first month for 2012! We have been busy, busy with house stuff. We are CLOSING on March 7 - 6 weeks from today! We are so excited and cannot believe it's gone so fast. We are working on window treatments, rugs, and wall art... very hard to make these decisions when you haven't got the "creative eye"!

We also welcomed the newest Henderson on January 22nd. Melissa "Collins" Henderson joined us and is such a sweet baby. Kelly did great, and I am amazed at her calmness with three children. Ellie LOVED holding her by herself. No, we are not ready for the next one just yet!

We are still swimming once a week, and look forward to our Saturday routine. I will be ringing in another birthday - my golden one - on the 31st. They just aren't as exciting as they used to be!

Also, we had our annual ADPI Girls Weekend. To say this is always at the top of my list each year is an understatement. I love each and every one of these girls. We met freshman year at Auburn, and have made it a priority to get together at least once a year as a group. It's such a fun, exciting, and special time each year.

Looking back at 2011...

2012-01-05T10:39:00.018-05:00

Thought it would be interesting to take a look back at 2011. Definitely some happy times and events, but a lot of hard and life changing events too. Here's to a happy and healthy 2012!

January 2011:

- Auburn wins the BCS National Championship!!! What an amazing event, and trip with the Henderson Family!

- My 30th birthday

- Start a wonderful women's bible study

- Snow in Atlanta (we missed due to being in Arizona)

February 2011:

- Cookies with Characters in Andalusia

March 2011:

- Jay's last show with UltraDrive

- Jay becomes owner of his own company

- Start a new church, and Sunday School class

- Ellie becomes obsessed with Elmo and Mickey Mouse

April 2011:

- talks of putting our house on the market

- MeMe diagnosed with pancreatic cancer

- Easter Egg Hunts

- First "burn" for Ellie

- Started Swim Lessons

May 2011:

- Baby Cameron is born

- put our house on the market

- start and stop gymnastics

- Memorial Day at the Harrisons

June 2011:

- Ellie's first trip to Texas and meeting Sarah Mitchell

- Girls Weekend in Auburn

- Father's Day

July 2011:

- Beach Trip

August 2011:

- Annual Patterson Family Beach Trip (30 years)

- Ellie moves into new class at school

- Join our church, Ellie is dedicated, I am baptized

September 2011:

- House sells!!!

- Move in with friends until Rental is ready

- Auburn Football

- Trip to New Orleans and visiting with the Sanchez Family

October 2011:

- Begin building our new house

- Ellie turns 2

- Halloween

- Ellie counts to 10

- Ellie is interested in potty training

- Move into our Rental

November 2011:

- MeMe loses her battle with pancreatic cancer

- Ellie pottys on the big girl potty

December 2011:

- Ellie learns her ABC's and Jesus Loves Me

- first trip to Scottish Rite

- Christmas

- Jay's 33rd Birthday

- Jay goes on his first duck hunting adventure

- Chick-Fil-A Bowl

Christmas 2011

2012-01-02T12:33:00.011-05:00

Cannot believe it's January 2012! We are ready for a happy and healthy 2012. Hope to do a recap soon, but wanted to get these pictures up first.

Christmas at Church with the Womacks - Ellie smiled for the first picture with Santa, but then it was downhill from there. Of course, that one was deleted!

Tacky Christmas Party - My Mom swears these sweaters will come back into style. She only had 18 "tacky" sweaters to choose from!

Christmas Morning in Andalusia - Pap sure was a great Santa this year!

Sweet Baby Cameron

With Turner and JB, and going to the farm

Christmas in Springville - MiMi and Pop did WAY to much. I love that Ellie has so many cousins so close in age on both sides. Makes for such fun holidays! On my side, there are 6 grandkids (so far), 7 years to 2 years - 3 boys and 3 girls. On Jay's side, there are almost 5 grandkids, 3 years to 7 months - 3 boys and 2 girls. SO excited Ellie is getting a girl cousin on Jay's side. Melissa Collins will be there end of January/first of February!

It's coming along!

2011-12-20T21:37:00.003-05:00

The house is coming along... We have our pre dry wall meeting tomorrow, and hope to have walls up over the next couple of weeks. Very excited to start picking out our new furniture!

Oh, the joys of parenthood... and we have bricks!!!

2011-12-13T09:03:00.003-05:00

Ellie decided while we were in Andalusia a few weeks back that she wanted to start potty training. Our DR had told us around 18 months not to even think about it until after her 2nd birthday. She started showing interest around 18 months so we purchased a potty. She would sit, but nothing productive. Saturday after Thanksgiving she decided it was time... She asked to potty, and we followed... She finally did it! We are in the very beginning stages and are by no means "potty trained", but we are excited she is ready. She will go when we are at home, but not so interested at school. Our goal is by New Years, so you know where we'll be over the next few weeks! MeMe would be so proud!

Who doesn't have juice and cookies while pottying?

I hope Santa has been watching how much this child loves riding Daddy's "tractor"... This child loves riding toys

House update - we have bricks! Now the slow process of completing the inside and front...

A little of this and a little of that...

2011-12-03T15:13:00.005-05:00

House updates... We have windows, doors, and a roof! Now it's time for the bricks!

The Henderson Turkeys

Our first trip to the ER - result = asthma...

Henderson Cousins

We love you, MeMe

2011-11-29T21:11:00.007-05:00

We had a tough Thanksgiving as our wonderful, loving MeMe passed away Thanksgiving Day. We are all comforted knowing she is in a much better place, but are heart broken she is no longer here with us. My sister in law, Kelly, wrote an amazing blog post about MeMe. I encourage you all to read it as she put into words perfectly who MeMe was, and how much she meant to so many. I am forever grateful for the mother she was to Jay, mother-in-law she was to me, and most importantly the MeMe she was to Ellie. When I say MeMe was the grand babies biggest fan, I am not exaggerating. She epitomized the perfect grandmother. She lived for her children and grandchildren, and spoiled us all rotten with her love. We will become a little stronger each day as we grieve her loss.

She was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer in April, and fought until the bitter end. She eventually lost her battle to ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome) and/or Pneumonia. She had such a positive spirit and attitude the last 7 months. She will continue to challenge me to be a better wife, daughter, friend, and mother.

We are thankful we all were able to be with her the last few days and tell her what she meant to us. We thanked her for loving us, encouraging us, challenging us, spoiling us, and showing us all what a true fighter is. Even though she say anything back to us, she let us know she was there with a few tears.

More house updates!!!

2011-11-19T21:07:00.002-05:00

Checking in!

2011-11-17T05:46:00.003-05:00

Not much going on since the last time I posted... Just trying to get through our "busy" seasons of work. We are all fighting nasty sinus infections, and hope to be all well before Thanksgiving holidays. No new housing developments. Hope to have some new pictures next week!

Loves saying cheese

Tea Party with Mickey Mouse

War Eagle anyway - maybe well beat Samford?!?!

LOVES drawing

Jumpy made an appearance

Our House!!!

2011-11-09T16:07:00.003-05:00

We are making progress!!! It's finally real as we can see things actually happening now...the construction. This will probably be boring to everyone except for our parents! The countdown is on!

Lots to catch up on!

2011-11-02T14:35:00.006-04:00

I don't think I have ever neglected this blog for this long... We have LOTS going on, so bare with me.

The move - We sold our house in September, and have been in "transition" since then between a friend's house and now our rental. We are currently building our house right down the road, so we'll be renters for the next few months. Of course, the house selling happened at our busiest time of year, but we'll take it! We have broken ground and will definitely post pictures with the progress.

I will have more pictures in posts to come on the progress of the new house! Very excited!!!

Hanging out with friends

First Haircut

Ellie - We celebrated her 2nd birthday and are Mickey Mouse-ed out in our house. She is so funny with what she comes up with each day. I can really tell a difference in school this year, and she has already learned so much! We know colors, and body parts, she can count to 10, loves naming friends and family in pictures, wants to constantly know where everyone is, and is obsessed with Yo Gabba Gabba and coloring! She loves babies, and is so sweet to Cameron and our next door neighbor, Addison.

Halloween - Since Ellie's birthday will always fall on trick-or-treating, she hears all day - Happy Birthday and Happy Halloween - confusing now. She expected to see Mickey Mouse again. She LOVED going trick-or-treating in the neighborhood. We went as a group, and it was hilarious watching the kids run house to house. She would take her time on exactly which piece of candy she wanted, so she was usually the last one at each house.

Work - AGRH... Crazy and out of control this year! I am counting down the days until December 1 when both our our schedules ease up some. We are excited about November and December with fun activities with friends and family.

You can pick your friends, you can pick your nose...

2011-10-20T07:21:00.004-04:00

But you can't pick your friends' nose... Think again! Jay snapped this picture today during their "Daddy/Daughter" day at home. Made my day! Hilarious and gross at the same time. Sweet Sophie - she'll do and take anything from this little booger!

Be back soon with some updates and fun stuff... life is too crazy right now and we are all hoping to be back in our normal routine soon!

Work, Travel, Move, and Flu

2011-10-01T08:39:00.005-04:00

Well, that about explains what is going on in our lives... I feel like we are constantly running at 100 mph these days. I am so thankful that Jay has been able to fill my role as Mom that last few weeks (on top of his work schedule). I have been working crazy hours this fall, traveled for a conference, continue to unpack and adjust to living downtown, and went to the doctor yesterday to find out I have the flu... I guess that was God's way of MAKING me slow down. I feel a lot better today, but was ordered to sleep as much as possible. That's hard to do when I have so much to do. I am praying Jay and Ellie don't get it.

Found a great park for Ellie and Sophie

Eating at Firehouse

Cafe Du Monde in New Orleans

We were able to see Ashley and the boys in New Orleans. Miss them SO much!

All moved out

Battle of the cul de sac - Addison wins this year!

Sold!

2011-09-23T10:41:00.001-04:00

Sorry for the long delay in posting... We have been a wee bit crazy as Jay and I are in our "busy" seasons with work, and MOVING over the last week. Yep, it happened. We sold and closed on our house in a 2 week time span. We have been patient for the perfect buyer and they pretty much fell into our laps.

We will be in a constant state of moving over the next 6+ months. We are building a new house that we hope to be in by summer, but in the meantime are living with friends until a rental opens up.

We have managed ok with the packing, piles, storage units, etc. We have wonderful parents that have been more than helpful and generous with their time and availability over the last few weeks. Jay has been on his own with Ellie as I am working in New Orleans. Thankful my mom is coming in for the weekend to help out!

Hope to post more pictures next week as things settle down...

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Best time of the year!

2011-09-05T15:15:00.005-04:00

It's my favorite time of the year... FALL!!! We started off in Auburn and barely squeaked by with a win. I'm guessing this will be a little bit of a different football season compared to last year. Ellie went to the game and did AUsome. We were hoping to make it through the 1st quarter and lasted until the 4th. We missed the come back, but were excited to see most of the game.

Everybody get your hands up for Bodda Getta!

Loving on MeMe

Like Father, Like Daughter

Watching Mickey Mouse... much better than AU Football...

JB was OUT!

...and she's out...

Busy start to the new school year!

2011-09-01T07:26:00.005-04:00

We've hit the ground running as the start of the new school year is here! Ellie is loving her new class, and teachers. She actually started her new year in July by moving up a month before the other newbies arrived. She thinks she is still in charge as she is in a class of 13 boys! Yep, we have another fun-filled year with all boys. I am very happy to report that she has stopped (for now) chomping down on her friends at school. I hope typing this out doesn't jinx us. I still pray walking in to pick her up every day that she receives a good report for the day!

This years class be filled with art projects, music, eating at a table with chairs, and napping on mats at school. She seems to adjusted okay with the naps - now only sleeping for 1 hour. We are staying in the crib at home until she attempts to climb out! She has started talking A LOT and learns new words or phrases everyday. My favorite right now - "Love you Mommy/Daddy". Sweetest words I have ever heard. She is into climbing on anything, and continually has bruises and scratches all over her body. Another not-so-favorite phrase she uses - "No, No, No" if you try to remove her from something dangerous, or your ready to go and she is not. She also uses it for Sophie when Sophie wants to help with snack or meal time at home!

First Day in Toddler Class - this was after an outfit change and LOTS of crying due to pulling the night stand on top of her face

She still would rather be outside when we get home in the afternoons. She loves helping water the grass, cut the grass, or dig in the dirt. You'll find her in a diaper most days... So much that our 9-year-old neighbor asked if she ever wears clothes.

It's also that time of year for fall/winter consignment sales! I LOVE THEM! Jay will be ready for this season to end, but deep down he enjoys the sales too! We've hit a few and have a few more to go!

Playing with Jackson Borders at Griffin's Birthday

This has also started my busiest time of the year for work. I hit the road early in the morning, and arrive home late 2-3 nights a week. It's also Jay's busiest time for the company, but somehow we work out all the travel and night events that one of us is home. It's only for a few months, and then things jump back to being normal again. We are SO excited that college football is just a few days away! Bring on fun Saturdays in Auburn with family and friends!

Blessed, Blessed, Blessed

2011-08-21T21:33:00.007-04:00

We had a lot to celebrate this weekend... Our 7th Anniversary, Ellie's Baby (Toddler) Dedication at Church, and my Baptism! We LOVED having both families in town to celebrate with us. Ellie has been asking since they left this evening "Where MeMe/MiMi/Pap/Pop/CuCe (Lucy) go"?

We joined our wonderful church a few weeks ago and since I was not coming in from another Baptist church, I had to be baptized in order to be a member. I was thankful to be baptized with 5 other members all from our Sunday School class. We also decided to go ahead and have Ellie dedicated the same day! She was less than excited to be up in front of the church, but we all survived! I don't know that they will ever get all the raisins off floor in front of the church!

Jay and I celebrated 7 years over the weekend... You know you are old when you excited your gift is a garage door opener (and a trip to the Braves game)!

Say Cheese!

Ellie found a new "toy" - brass candlesticks from the Chapel Parlor

Family Picture before the Dedication

With Lindsey and Witt

With Dr. Ross

And then things went downhill... fast...

I wish I had a picture of when we are walking around the church at the end of the Dedication, and she is crying while waving to the congregation... Priceless!

At Chapel Knoll after a LONG nap

So, so thankful both sides were with us this weekend

JAWS!

2011-08-19T15:46:00.002-04:00

Any help out there from the blogging world on stopping a child from biting? We are in the thick of it right now trying to teach Ellie that biting is not nice. She had a bad incident at school last week where she bit the same child (her BFF) twice in one day - the last time being a "bad bite" - he still has a bruise a week later. I feel TERRIBLE as the mother of the biter. Fortunately for us, we are friends with her BFF and they have been more than understanding.

I feel like we've tried everything... biting her back, spanking, a stern "no" and explaining we only bite our food - not people, etc... She was on the receiving end a few months back so I thought she'd for sure know how it felt. Her teachers have been wonderful and encouraging. She's not the only biter in the classroom, but that doesn't matter to me. Our other issue is that she only bites at school... not at church, not in playgroups, not when we're with nieces and nephews... only school!

I pray every day before I drop her off and pick her up that she won't back... I am on pins and needles walking down the hall each afternoon PRAYING we get a "no bite" report from her teacher. Please pass along any ideas! We have received good reports all week!

Beach 2011

2011-08-06T21:14:00.017-04:00

We enjoyed every minute of being at the beach this summer. We were lucky to be able to spend time with both sides of our families while we were there. This was the first year I was not ready to come home and get back into our routine. I think I could stayed another week or two!

Ellie loved the pool, but HATED the beach after about 5 minutes each day. Any pictures you see on the beach were within the first 5 minutes, so don't let them fool you! She HATES anything on her hands or feet. Ellie + Sand = NIGHTMARE. We split our time between the pool with Ellie and lounging at the beach solo. Hopefully she'll enjoy it more next year.

LOTS of pictures...

LOVES her MeMe and Pap

Still OBSESSED with dogs

Ellie loved being with all of her cousins.

She also became fascinated with babies this trip... real ones and play ones...

We had some family pictures with the Henderson's. HOT, but they turned out GREAT!

Still learning about sharing...

I really think I could live here...

2011-07-28T08:48:00.001-04:00

I am enjoying a cup (or two) of coffee this morning and listening to the waves all by my self. Ellie, Jay, and the rest of the crew are sleeping soundly...

I am thankful MeMe and Pap have a beach condo right on the beach and are letting the Patterson crew enjoy it for a few days...

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While it's raining at the beach, we'll catch up on blogging!

2011-07-27T09:14:00.005-04:00

Rain, Rain go away... We are having a big storm this morning at the beach, so I will catch up on blogging while Jay reads the paper and Ellie enjoys Mickey Mouse Club.

The Whole Henderson Gang visits us in Atlanta:

We enjoyed hosting everyone in Atlanta a few weekends ago. We played, shopped, went to a Braves game (some of us), and enjoyed being together. Ellie thinks Turner is hilarious, and loves following his every move. She tries to keep up... JB and Griffin crawled/played around and found some unusual toys to play with outside.

Next up - BEACH TRIP!!!

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Loving on baby Cameron

2011-07-26T08:21:00.001-04:00

Ellie loved spending time with baby Cameron and kissed him 1000 times a day...

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Having fun!

2011-07-25T08:42:00.001-04:00

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Ready to RELAX

2011-07-22T08:36:00.001-04:00

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Catching up...

2011-07-12T14:02:00.011-04:00

I apologize for my lack of posting lately. Work has been much busier than normal with student appointments so that leaves little time for blogging! We've been swimming a lot this summer to stay cool. Ellie started swim lessons and is now in the Frog class. This means she is w/o me, which make me happy! She is loving the water, and seems to have no fear. I am amazed at how much they learn at this age. She is also "trying out" the toddler class at school for July. She'll move up mid-August, but there was some room so we thought we'd give it a try. We are in our third day, and are hoping for good news this afternoon. The major difference is sleeping on mats for naps versus the crib. Day 1 we struck out, and Day 2 was successful. Let's hope Day 3 brings at least a little bit of a nap. We are also struggling with biting. Any helpful ideas on what to do? I know most kids go through this at some point, but it doesn't make it easier hearing/knowing that. I hate that she is hurting someone else. She's had her fair share of bites, so you'd think she'd know not to do it. She doesn't bite at home, only at school. She bit me once, and I bit her back. They won't bite back at school. They do talk to them and remove them from the situation, but it's hard to discipline her once she is home. Oh, the joys of parenthood!

Chapel Knoll (Lake place with Church)

Hanging with neighbors

Celebrating the 4th with MeMe and Pap

Swim Lessons

Randoms

Playing at the Park

It's that time again...

2011-06-23T09:49:00.005-04:00

...FOR GIRL'S WEEKEND!!!! I am counting down to see the my very best friends in AUBURN this weekend!

Texas 2008

Texas 2009

Lake Martin 2009

Happy Daddy's Day

2011-06-21T08:44:00.007-04:00

We enjoyed a low-key weekend at home celebrating the best Daddy in the world! He wouldn't consider it low-key as he had to work ALL WEEKEND, but we still found time to celebrate him! We missed seeing our Daddy's but made sure they knew they were loved. We are hoping to see Pap and MeMe this weekend.

We ended the weekend at our church picnic. They own some property at the lake up the road, and have a service out there once a month. The kids LOVED getting in the water, and exploring the old church camping grounds. Can't wait to spend more time there this summer!

Looking back at pictures of Ellie and Jay... so sweet! These are out of order, but so fun to look back at over the last year and a half!

Our Trip to the Wild, Wild West!

2011-06-17T11:42:00.016-04:00

I braved a flight and trip to Texas to see my best friend from Auburn, and meet her sweet, NON-CRYING baby girl. Katie (other best friend from Auburn) who is pregnant joined us too! We had such a good time, and I fall more in love with Texas every time I am out there (it helps that Larkin is the best hostess too). We were on the go, but also had time to relax and enjoy each other's company too.

I was a nervous wreck before our trip hoping and praying Ellie would behave on the flight. I think I was on everyone's prayer list and THANKS AGAIN because it worked!We sat beside the nicest man on our way out there and he and Ellie got in a good nap. She fell asleep as the plane was taking off, and I had to wake her up when we landed. She traveled great in her car seat-turned-stroller thanks to the handy, dandy toddler traveler strap! She also did great on the flight home thanks to our traveling DVD player and stickers!

Waiting for our flight with Elmo and Mickey

Lifesaver all weekend

Once we arrived, we enjoyed great Texas food, drinks, and friendship all weekend.

Our night out without the children - Thank you for babysitters!

First night of Mexican

Meeting Lindsey and Nash for lunch

Hope this is not in our future

Ellie's goodie bag from Aunt Larkin

Kisses from Mason

Love this miniature couch

Ellie rediscovered the jumperoo

Yes, that's Pregnant Katie running with Ellie - not me!

Ready for some fun in the sun

Ellie and Sarah Mitchell pictures (can't wait to see these two grow up together - and Harrison when he arrives)

Petting Zoo - she was obsessed with the animals and the Cattle Drive

Ft. Worth Children's Museum

Meltdown #1

We had two major meltdowns while in Texas. I think it was a combination of traveling, being in a new place, and the spicy food (as diapers were not fun). She can almost do me in (and did one time) with her temper tantrums. I know we are in for a long ride as we are not quite at the terrible twos. Pray for all of us! She has met Mr. Spank Spoon much earlier than I thought she would.

I cannot tell you how good Sarah Mitchell (Larkin's little one) is. She might be the best baby I have ever been around. She did not cry one time while we were out there... She sleeps, eats, and travels great. I hope Ellie's temper tantrums didn't rub off on her after we left. She (and Larkin) may be scarred for life! Katie - get ready!

And what's a girls weekend without matching pajamas???

Having fun in Texas

2011-06-11T08:29:00.001-04:00

We are having so much fun with Larkin and Sarah Mitchell in Texas... matching pajamas!

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Wedding Bells!

2011-06-07T08:19:00.014-04:00

We witnessed the sweetest, most sincere weddding I think I have ever been apart of... My brother married the most amazing lady this weekend! I am so happy to have another sister in the family! Everything was PERFECT, and I don't know of another couple more in love with each other than these two. I know she'll be an incredible wife to my brother, and step-mother to the most precious nephews. We love you Ashley, and are so happy you are "officially" part of our family!!!

Bridesmaid Luncheon - Ashley was beaming the entire weekend.

Mom and Me

Ashley and Me

Ashely, her sister, and her mom

Ashley and Mom

Rehearsal and Rehearsal Dinner

Ellie was pretty much with my Mom or Dad most of the weekend. She loves her MiMi and Pop and would call for them when they were not around... This child does no wrong in their eyes.

Running like a wild Indian through the church

Still smiling

Happy Couple

The BEST Men (Eli and Gavin)

Brandi and Ann Huett (the flower girl)

Our little family (minus Sophie pup)

Hugs from AH

Goodies

AH and Gavin

Kids Only (Ellie's first Sprite - she LOVED it)

Mom and Eli

Keeping the little ones entertained during the Rehearsal Dinner

Wedding

AH and Brandi

Mom and Me

Taylor, Ann Huett, and Millie

Beautiful Bride

Reception

Dancing with the Band

DVD keeping them entertained

BAD hair and Memorial Day

2011-05-31T12:26:00.005-04:00

Poor baby - she has her Mommy's crazy hair. MeMe says it just has some personality! We laugh almost every morning at her crazy hair. It requires an hour or so, and some water before anything can be done with it. Looks like I passed on my crazy hair to her.

New favorite place to color - the bath tub! Love the new bath tub crayons!

We did a lot of nothing this weekend. We enjoyed being in town this weekend and had the best time cooking out, relaxing, and swimming. June is looking crazy, so we soaked up the time at home.

Where did May go?

2011-05-24T10:05:00.007-04:00

Where did the month of May go? I feel like I blinked and it's almost June! We've been enjoying hanging out at home the last few weeks, and enjoying the outside as much as possible.

Ellie is talking more and more, and picks up new words daily. We need to REALLY be careful what we say because she is starting to repeat. She loves calling for Momma and Dada every morning until we come get her out of her bed. She is such a sweet toddler, and loves giving hugs and kisses to anyone.

We are continuing with gymnastics, and plan to start swim lessons in June!

Love this little pony tail

Her favorites right now are:
Elmo
Sesame Street
Micky Mouse Clubhouse
Coloring
Swinging
Being outside
Bath Time
Reading
Animals

Still eating and sleeping great! Hope this continues!

What else is going on in our world?
-House is for sale
This is a HUGE and exciting project. We are hopeful for a buyer and have plans to build down the road.

-Baby Cousin Cameron arrived! He is a tiny, little thing and we can't wait to get back down to Andalusia to hold and love on him.

-Loving our new friends and new Sunday School class

-Continuing to pray for MeMe as she continues her treatments

Here are a few pictures from the last few weeks...
Coloring with MeMe

Showing Pap her shoes

Driving with Dada

Coloring with Sophie

Uh Oh - Sorry Momma

OUT, but not letting go of my baby's hand

Happy Mother's Day

2011-05-10T12:47:00.010-04:00

What a great Mother's Day weekend! We had a full weekend, and had so much fun! Friday started off with a Seis De Mayo Party in the neighborhood. We enjoyed great food, drink, and company! The kids loved playing in the backyard and the grown-ups were able to sit back and enjoy the company of neighborhood friends. We were also celebrating Joel and Molly's recent wedding on Friday and Saturday night. We had the ABSOLUTE best dinner on Saturday at Atlanta's own Bacchanalia restaurant. Hands down the BEST meal I've had! We'll definitely be celebrating more special occasions there!

Saturday we headed to Ellie's first gymnastics class. We've signed up for 4 classes, but don't know that we'll do any more after those 4. She is the youngest in the class and might be just a little to young to start these classes. It's definitely funny watching her run around in her leotard!

Sunday we headed to celebrate with MeMe in Andalusia. I swear it was close to 100 degrees! MeMe and Pap have so many fun, big toys and the grand kids go crazy there! We rode all the big equipment including the Rustler and tractors, put our feet in the pool, and destroyed the inside of MeMe and Pap's house with all the fun toys!

MeMe is doing great! She had her first treatment last week, and was feeling much better on Sunday. Please continue to keep her in your prayers as she continues down this not so fun road of chemo. She is so strong, and we are so excited she is feeling good!

TIRED OUT!

A few more pictures!

2011-05-05T19:56:00.010-04:00

I am so bad lately with uploading my pictures off the Mom camera. My camera phone is so MUCH more convenient and easier when it comes to getting pictures on here... just not the best quality.

While we were in town last weekend, we were able to celebrate John Burke's 1st birthday. We had so much fun, and Ellie was asleep before we were out of the drive-way.

Happy Birthday big boy!

Ellie LOVED the ball pit - especially when Turner or Blake would dive in!

Jumpy + Sesame Street = Heaven for Ellie!

Ellie is really into feeding herself and drinking for a big cup. This is lemonade, but she is OBSESSED with Sweet Tea! It's like a drug for her!

Enjoying the birthday fun - swinging, balls, and a pool!

We were also able to hang out with Daddy while he did some ATM work

It had been a long day, so she had to finish it off with a cold one!

18 months old

2011-05-02T14:07:00.009-04:00

This baby, I mean toddler, is growing like a weed! We had her 18-month check-up this morning and she has jumped to the 90th percentile in height. She was 33". She is still on the skinny side, weighing 22 lbs and in the 20th percentile. Looks like she'll be tall and skinny at this point... not bad for a girl! She passed all her 18 month marks, and got an A+ from Dr. Royal. She was not happy about the shot at the end, but we all survived. No more immunizations until 4 years old, only flu shots each year!

We enjoyed some time in Birmingham this weekend for JB's birthday and Jay had to work Crawfish Boil. We hung out at the hotel with MiMi a good bit. She slept good both nights in her room/closet.

Please keep all the families affected by last week's storms in your prayers. The devastation in Alabama looks like something out of a movie. I cannot get over that a tornado wiped so many areas off the map. If you are able to give to help anyone, please do so. They desperately need it.

Also, continue to pray for MeMe as she begins her treatments this week. We cannot wait to see her on Sunday to celebrate Mother's/MeMe's Day!

Ellie at work with Momma

Feeding herself... her preference these days

Preferred method of Mickey Mouse Club watching

LOVES stickers and coloring these days... waiting to see the Dr

Working with MiMi

Proud new owner of a Jumpy

Before the storms last week

Easter 2011

2011-04-25T20:18:00.010-04:00

***Lots of Pictures***

We had a wonderful weekend celebrating Easter with MeMe and Pap in Andalusia. We didn't let another ear infection slow us down... Nothing beats a small town when it comes to sick babies. We called Jay's pediatrician with Ellie's sure signs of an ear infection and he immediately called the neighborhood pharmacy (Jay's sister) for our drops and medicine. We had antibiotics delivered to us at dinner! Doesn't get much better (or easier) than that.

We played, and played, and played... and hunted Easter eggs... and took pictures... we colored... we fished... we ran around like a wild Indian. This mommy is exhausted!

We are continuing to pray for MeMe as she is meeting with great doctors in Houston this week. She is so strong, and has recovered quickly from surgery 2 weeks ago. She looks GREAT, and we know He has the perfect plan for her. Ellie adores her, and said MeMe for the first time this morning as they were leaving. We love you MeMe and can't wait to see you soon!

visiting the Easter bunny in Andalusia

admiring him/her from far away

drinking Pap's sweet tea

Easter goodies - Minnie and Mickey

hunting Easter eggs with my Daddy

Be sweet to Cater

Kissing Minnie and Mickey

Kissing Sophie

Trying to get a decent picture in her dress

Back of dress

Family picture (minus Heath and Kelly's crew)

Favorite thing to do... go in/out of doors

Playing with the twins

We ended the day... in MeMe's pool

Easter Egg Hunt at School

2011-04-21T12:48:00.008-04:00

Ellie participated in her first Easter Egg Hunt at school today! It was hilarious to watch them "hunt" their eggs. They were all stumbling around, picking up the eggs, shaking them, and calling them balls! Here are a few pictures! We hope you all have a Happy Easter. We can't wait to be in Andalusia to celebrate with MeMe and Pap!

Having a Peep before the hunt

Waiting for the Hunt

Collecting my eggs

It's a Ml-Mo (Elmo) Egg

Class Picture - yes, Ellie is the only girl

Hugs for Wyatt - been together since they were 3 months old

Pictures from the week!

2011-04-17T20:20:00.004-04:00

I am tired of looking at Ellie's burned arm. It is SO much better now, and we are going to try some stuff to prevent scarring. She has been battling some of the not-so-fun daycare drama. She's had quite a time with a little fella that thinks Ellie's arms and legs are worth eating! We knew, and know, this is (and will continue to be) a part of the daycare days. We weren't concerned until it started happening every day and the latest battle wound was on her burned arm! Glad we had the weekend to settle down... Let's pray we have a good week!

Pictures from the week...

Lounging on Sophie

Piggy Tails for the first time - they didn't last long

She HAD to have 2 bows the same day, and the toothbrush is her favorite toy

Her very own sunglasses that we lost 3 hours later

Ellie putting make-up on Elmo

Quick Post for Mom of the Year!

2011-04-14T15:29:00.003-04:00

Yes, I had one of the not so fun Mom of the Year moments last week. I left my coffee a little too close and Ellie spilled the entire cup down her arm. I won't go into details on how much sleep I was working off of (1 hour), nor the events before all this took place... Trying to make excuses... I cried almost as much as she did.

More to update on later... Until then, be careful with HOT coffee!

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Happy Birthday Millie Pete!

2011-04-04T09:33:00.010-04:00

We had a quick trip to Birmingham this weekend to celebrate with my brother and future sister-in-law, and Millie's 2nd Birthday! We had planned to stay one more day (today), but the weather is supposed to be bad this afternoon so we came on back to be safe. I had planned to be off work today anyway, so we are going to have an afternoon at the park!

Ellie did great in the car there and back... This has not always been the case, but I think she is finally getting used to the fact that her car seat is her second home. We have figured out a plan on the DVD's by switching them often. Elmo and Mickey are still favorites. We soaked up a lot of MiMi and Pap time.

Jay was home working all weekend... I came home last night to a SPOTLESS house! He cleaned, and cleaned, and cleaned while we were gone and I was SO happy! I was not looking forward to cleaning on my day off today! What a great husband!

Don't have a picture from their shower, but this is from Ellie's Birthday! I cannot tell you how excited I am for this wedding. Ashley will be officially joining our family this summer. She is the sweetest, most amazing woman for my brother. She immediately fit perfectly into our family (despite her allegiance to Alabama). I am so looking forward to having another girl in the Patterson family!

Playing all weekend with Mimi and Pop

Celebrating Millie's 2nd Birthday... Her name is not Millie Pete, but that is what Jay and I call her. This is the most active child I have ever seen. She is always on the go climbing, jumping, doing something she is not supposed to be doing. She was (and still is) so tiny - just like her Mommy. She is 7 months older than Ellie, and Ellie is bigger than she is. Ellie found her tea set, and played with it most of the day.

And this baby is T.I.R.E.D

OUT leaving the birthday party...

We are well... again!

2011-03-26T22:54:00.016-04:00

We battled our first case of croup last weekend and this week. Her cough sounded like a bark. We were prescribed steroids to knock it out, and the doctor telling us she might be a little crabby was an understatement. She had full on roid-rage. I hope we never have to take those again! We had a good week despite the few days of crabbiness.

Ellie is really into reading, cooking in her kitchen, waving at everyone she sees, blowing kisses, pointing out her body parts, Mel-Mo (Elmo), and Mickey Mouse. She is also into a phase of copying what I do (i.e. putting on make-up and putting her hair in a hair towel). She is in a mommy attachment phase this week. It can be exhausting when I depend on Jay to do so much with her, and this week she wants only mommy. I know it could change at any time and I should be thankful she wants to be held, rocked, and loved on so much right now.

I have to get some video on here of her "chore" at home. She is now feeding Sophie in the mornings and at night. She loves it. She copies exactly what we do, and it's hilarious. She likes it so much, she wants to feed her more often than Sophie needs to eat. I found her the other day with her hands in Sophie's food container outside and feeding Sophie piece by piece from her hand.

Pictures from the last few weeks...

Confused about the seasons?

Cooking for Mel-Mo

Look at those curls... One reason I am not ready to cut her hair

Loves drinking out of our cups

This is how Jay found her one afternoon watching Sesame Street

St. Patrick's Day

Drawing for Sophie

2 funny things about this picture... 1. the pacifier... she never takes one, but likes to play with them and it's upside down 2. look how tall this child is

Putting on her make-up with me one morning

Reading with Daddy

Just like her Mommy... Loves cheese dip

Spring Cleaning!

2011-03-15T14:37:00.005-04:00

Closets - check
Goodwill drop off - check
Kitchen cabinets - check
House cleaned - check
Pantry / Frig stocked - check

My dad would be so proud! He is a neat freak, and loves re-organizing and cleaning for me when he visits. Next time, I will save it all for him! I am very lucky in that Jay is just as crazy as I am about having a clean, semi-neat house. We have decided to save some money, and clean our own house for a few months. We have had an AMAZING lady visit us twice a month for a few years and thought we could trim our budget this way. She does a MUCH better job than me, but it's cleaner than it was last week. Jay is the floor man. He does all the vacuuming, moping, and cleaning of the hardwoods. I am the organizer, putter-awayer, duster, bathrooms person. It works out and all gets done.

What a great weekend to catch up and clean! We got so much done by being HOME this weekend. I am looking forward to many more weekends like this with the exception of few baby and wedding showers. The weather was perfect so Ellie soaked up some outside time too at the ballpark!

Kisses for Dada

Will be needing a haircut very soon...

Spaghetti Face

Calling a puppy at the park

Waiting to see the doctor - NO TUBES!!!

Watching baseball with Daddy

Walking Sophie

Hey

Her new puppy-friend at the park - this child LOVES dogs. She wants to kiss and pet everyone she meets...

Ready for a low key weekend!

2011-03-08T14:32:00.006-05:00

We took a quick trip to the beach this past weekend for Jay's last band gig. MiMi graciously agreed to go with us, so I could enjoy Jay's last shows too. My great friend allowed us to stay at her condo ON THE BEACH and it was such a great little vacation. It did RAIN the entire weekend, but we made the best of it by shopping and eating great seafood. Ellie tried all types of seafood and seemed to enjoy it all. She was definitely bored by having to be inside a lot, but was a trooper for the most part!

We are so excited that the next few weekends will keep us home! I need to do a lot of spring cleaning, and my work schedule is crazy for March and April.

Wasting time at the outlets

Inventing new toys

Grocery Shopping

Napping on the way to the beach

This is her normal sleeping position

OBSESSED with sour straws (hey - they keep her happy on the LONG car ride home)

This syringe is a common fixture in our house with her many ear infections

Wonderful Weekend

2011-02-26T22:04:00.006-05:00

We headed south this weekend to spend some time with MeMe and Pap, and had a special treat of hanging out with the cousins. We were all in town for Cookies with Characters that benefits Meredith's Miracles. We had awesome weather, and Ellie, Turner, and John Burke had a blast running wild all over Andalusia! I love that Ellie will grow up with so many cousins, and now that they play together makes it so much fun. Turner was so sweet to Ellie all weekend. He would ask where she was, and held her hand a few times. You could tell she thought he was something else, and wanted to run and do as he did.

Thanks MeMe and Pap for a WONDERFUL weekend! We loved seeing everyone, and meeting Elmo and Mickey in person!

Great park in Andalusia

Here, There, and Everywhere

2011-02-24T22:09:00.005-05:00

I feel like this will be my title for the rest of spring and summer... We are loving this weather, and are soaking up every minute of daylight each afternoon.

Swinging with Sawyer

Pushing JB

Reading (her new favorite thing)

Swinging

Looks like she's getting ready for a boxing match

Milk Please!

Riding the car at MeMe's

Playing at the Park

Gymnastics

ouch!

2011-02-20T14:46:00.002-05:00

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This week at school, Ellie had an unusual wake up call... A classmate decided to nibble on her toes while she was napping! Now I know why he found it them so tempting!

Happy Valentine's Day To You!

2011-02-14T14:41:00.006-05:00

Isn't he a cutie? Sorry - I know it's small but I couldn't figure out how to make it larger... but I love this sweet picture of Jay! He is probably around Ellie's age now. Much more hair than she has!

We had a great afternoon enjoying some of this nice sunny weather playing in the park! We need to put a play area in our back yard for this spring and summer, because Ellie could spend all day outside. The cooler temps don't even seem to bother her. She loves to look out the window upstairs when the neighborhood boys are playing basketball wishing she was big enough to play with them. When she is out with them, they are very careful around her and do give her a chance with the ball. She picked up a new word this week... MaMo (Elmo) and loves anything with his picture on it!

We are in another semi-busy time for work, so I spent the weekend working... Ellie very much enjoyed her Daddy time. This has been an extra hard few weeks due to final decisions coming out for this year's class. It gets more and more competitive each year, and denials are the absolute worst part of this job. Some understand more than others, and some days you feel like the worst person... Thankfully, this period doesn't last long for me!

This weather today made me so excited about this spring!

Ellie LOVES to slide (over and over and over and...)

Sweet little nose (concrete plus face don't match)

Driving with Daddy

What a weekend!

2011-02-09T14:22:00.010-05:00

We had a great weekend (with the exception of driving home on Sunday) visiting with my parents. I had a baby shower and Jay had a show out of town. I love visiting with grandparents because they help out SO much! Ellie loves all of the attention and cannot get enough of their sweet dog, Lucy. Lucy is not as excited about Ellie. She will let Ellie know when she's had enough, but Ellie thinks it's funny. I am usually on Lucy's side... As soon as we arrived, Lucy went running in another room with Ellie chasing right behind her!

Excuse the quality of these pictures... they were all taken with an I Phone

Ellie loves investigating new areas of the house... especially MiMi's silver drawer!

Ellie enjoyed playing at MiMi's office while I was at the baby shower

Laughing at MiMi

Ready to go!

Yay! Daddy is coming home today!

Sweet girl is ready for church

She screamed when I dropped her off, but was having cookies when I returned... and got a sucker from cousin Millie

I am SURE this contributed to our NOT SO PLEASANT ride home... I thought I would be smart and leave before Ellie's afternoon nap. Little did I know that she would SCREAM from Odenville to Oxford... If you are not familiar with that distance, it was over an hour. She then passed out for all of 20 minutes before screaming again from the GA line until we pulled into the drive way. Yes, another hour... I threatened to drop her off on the side of the road. We did make a pit stop because I thought she might be hungry. Instead, she fed Sophie her chicken nuggets and FF.

New trick of the week... getting her arms out of the carseat straps. Guess I need to tighten them!

30/15

2011-02-01T13:10:00.002-05:00

***Pictures to come later***

I celebrated my big 30th birthday ALL WEEKEND LONG, and Ellie celebrated 15 months yesterday! I wouldn't say this was the best weekend for us as Ellie is battling a double ear infection, but we were still able to eat some great food and celebrate with some great friends!

Friday night Jay surprised me with a trip to New York Prime in Atlanta. If you love steak as much as I do, then treat yourself to NY Prime! What an awesome meal. I wish I had pictures, but I didn't think it was appropriate to pull out my camera at this restaurant! We ended the night with coffee and dessert at our favorite place, Cafe Intermezzo.

Saturday we enjoyed the beautiful weather with a trip to the park with Ellie, and lunch at Marlow's (another favorite of mine). We were able to get away again Saturday night for Jay's show at Hard Rock Cafe! I came home with my neighbors only to find out I had Jay's keys... Lucky me got to drive back to Hard Rock at 2 a.m. and then back home again. We were all in bed by 3:30 a.m., and Ellie was up at 5 a.m. Jay let me sleep in and even cooked breakfast before we traded Ellie shifts!

Sunday Ellie was extremely fussy and we knew she wasn't feeling good. She had started coughing Friday night and was uncomfortable both nights. Sunday night was the worst... We may have gotten 2 - 3 hours of sleep. She was crying most of the night and we knew we were in for a trip to see Dr. Royal. Luckily, her 15 month appointment was scheduled for Monday.

We found out she has a double ear infection and is now on a healthy does of antibiotics. We stayed home yesterday to all get some much needed rest, and are hoping this ear infection clears up quickly! This is her second one this month. She was sick Thursday night (I won't go into the details but EVERYTHING in her room, bathroom, and our bathroom had to be majorly cleaned), and we thought it was something she ate. The doctor said it was probably her being dizzy and off balance from the ear infection. You learn something new everyday!

She is progressing along nicely, and finally weighs 20 pounds! She is very tall for 15 months and seems to have Jay's build (lucky for her). Dr. Royal was very pleased with her developmental progress (makes us proud). She'll go back again next week for check-up and her 15 month shots.
Weight - 20 pounds (20th percentile)
Height - 31 inches (70th percentile)
Head - 95th percentile

What she's up to now!
-Gives kisses, hugs, and pats your back while hugging you (so sweet)
-Says MaMa, DaDa, Daddy, Sissy (for Sophie), ba (for ball), Uh Oh, Hey, Alright, Wyatt (according to her teachers at school... Wyatt is her BFF at school)
-Points to objects, people, and body parts (light, bed, nose, belly button, ear, mouth, Sophie, DaDa, ball, sippy cups, book, grandparents)
-Loves to look at and read books now
-Loves to get her shoes and socks on
-Loves to climb the stairs
-Loves to be outside (even when it's FREEZING)
-Loves anything to do with balls, Mickey Mouse, make-up, and shoes
-Loves tormenting Sophie
-Loves sitting in your lap to watch cartoons
-Off all bottles
-Eats all big people food (and lots of it)
-OBSESSED with blueberries
-Sleeps 7 p.m. to 7 a.m. (unless she's sick)
-Naps - not the best - usually 1 - 1 hour nap at school; 2 - 1 hour naps at home

Last night we ended my birthday weekend with dinner at Provino's! This is a tradition for me because you eat FREE on your birthday! All I can say is YUMMO! I fell in love with this place in Auburn, and am so happy there is one down the road here. The butter balls (rolls) and salad are the best! Now, it's time for a major diet before summer arrives!

We are so blessed with a happy, and healthy little girl! I am excited what's in store for my 30's... it's the new 20's, right?

Just some pictures!

2011-01-24T19:11:00.007-05:00

Just wanted to get some recent pictures on here since I am tired of looking the the Christmas blog (and I am sure you are too)! We head to the Doctor on Monday for her 15 month check-up!
Hello?

The AUBURN National Championship Celebration (we had to say YEA Ellie for her to stand the freezing cold)

Little Eskimo

Playing before the celebration started

All done... It's freezing and I am ready to go!

First trip to Auburn's BBQ House, and she loved it!

Borrowing Turner's Elmo microphone (must get one of these)

My favorite thing to do these days... Play outside!

Being silly at MiMi's House

Will NOT look at the camera...

Hope you all have a great week!

Back to 2010 for a minute...

2011-01-17T09:48:00.007-05:00

I finally am finishing up my 2010 Christmas post... I forgot my camera for my side of Christmas so I was waiting (patiently) for Mom to upload her pictures and send them to me.

We were able to enjoy the-day-after-White-Christmas in Springville with my family. I don't ever remember snowing being on the ground Christmas morning. We didn't see any in South Alabama, but enjoyed the beautiful ride to North Alabama seeing all the snow.

We also celebrated Jay's birthday while in Springville (I know, he gets robbed every year).

Grandkids 2010 (can't believe they all stood still for this picture)

Grandkids 2009

Grandkids with the cousins

Patterson Family

Henderson Family (Sophie is camera shy)

Sweet hug from cousin Millie

Ellie and Millie last Christmas (2009)

Snow

Playing with Gavin

Playing with my Mommy's hair towel (excuse the snotty nose)

Happy Birthday Daddy!!!

Playdate with some of Mommy's college friends (this has to be the hardest picture we've ever taken)

Love our annual Christmas Lunch Get Together!

Ellie and Emily

AUsome AUsome AUsome

2011-01-13T20:33:00.013-05:00

Wow! What an AUsome year for Auburn fans. We went into the season ranked #17 with Coach Chizik in his second year. I just was hoping to beat either UGA or Bama, that wasn't asking too much! I never dreamed we'd go undefeated and be local, regional, and NATIONAL champions! This team became such a family, and fought from behind in most games. I am so proud of this team and what they have accomplished! Recruiting in the state of GA for Auburn has been super sweet this year ;-)

We were fortunate to attend and witness Auburn win the National Championship! Thank you to The Henderson's for such an amazing trip. Ellie enjoyed watching and cheering from here with her WONDERFUL babysitter, Ms. Cera! Little did we know, they'd be stuck inside the entire weekend due to ice and snow (and we are still stuck inside and it's almost Friday).

About to board a 100% Auburn flight with Kelly and Mabry

With Jay and SUPER CAM (yes, he wore this to the airport)

We flew from Bham with Kelly and Heath, and met the rest of the family in AZ

Dinner with friends

Hanging out in the Auburn bar

At our hotel in the Cactus Garden

Camelback Mountain

Leaving for the BIG GAME with the Henderson Family

The stadium from out bus window

With the family heading into the Tailgate Party

AMAZING SEATS!!!

Love you EB

With Kelly before kickoff

AU warming up

Here they come!!!

No pictures during the game because I thought I was going to throw up the entire time and/or have a heart attack...

Tied with 10 seconds to go...

Byrum in for the game winning field goal (2 seconds to go...)

IT'S GOOD!!! Auburn WINS!!!

Celebrating with the Henderson Family!

Look at that trophy!

Newspaper Articles

Jay and Heath heading home!

I believe in Auburn and LOVE it!!!

2011-01-11T09:59:00.001-05:00

Wow! What an amazing season! More to come later with lots of pictures!

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Christmas Recap

2011-01-04T20:26:00.018-05:00

What a great Christmas! We enjoyed so much family time. Enjoy the pictures!

"Santa" working hard on Christmas Eve

The finished product

Santa visited early in Andalusia for Pap

Ellie's favorite spot in MeMe's kitchen

Twas the night before Christmas

All I want is THAT ornament

Christmas Morning

For me?

Playing in my new kitchen

My very own make-up bag. She LOVES putting on make up with me in the mornings!

My grocery cart for my kitchen

After my morning nap, I needed to do some work on my laptop

Trying to get a cute picture with the cousins

Looking at Aunt Kelly

Sweet JB

Cooking in the kitchen

Night Night Sophie

More from the other side, and a GREAT visit with friends up next!

Christmas Time

2010-12-23T20:12:00.006-05:00

One of the big perks of my job, GREAT vacation! I love that we are off for two full weeks during the Holidays. It gives us time to hang out as a family and spend time with both sides of our family! I have been looking forward to December since Ellie was born (probably before she was born) because I was looking forward to dressing her in Holiday attire! This child had a different outfit for almost every day in December... Sad thing is it will be over in a couple of days!

My favorite snack - Cheez its!

Under MiMi's tree

Playing at the mall

Look at this belly (and belly button)

Playing with the dogs

Waiting on Uncle Joel and Aunt Molly

My typical morning... Cartoons in my cozy coupe

This is the face you get if you tell her "NO"

Waiting to meet Santa

Not a fan of Santa...

I hope you all have a very Merry Christmas!

The blogging blahs...

2010-12-14T22:15:00.003-05:00

I was doing so good catching up on my blogging, but then I hit a rut again... A few friends have mentioned to me about not updating. I find myself reading your blogs everyday, but don't take the time to update my own! I want to look back on this as a scrapbook for Ellie one day, so I do need to start jotting things down that are funny, interesting, noteworthy, etc because I know I will forget.

I am in the midst of Christmas cards! I LOVE LOVE LOVE going to the mailbox each day in December and opening all the Christmas cards from friends and family. I blogged about Shutterfly's promotion and received 50 FREE cards! It worked! All I had to do was pay the S&H. Well, 50 wasn't enough as I found out tonight while addressing... so I went back online to order more. Only, I can't get the same one is time before Christmas. I am doing another site and picking them up in store. This means some people will get one, and some will get another - Uh Oh! I addressed the ones who have sent us one first, and then started at the front of my address book. I will know for next year that I need much more than 50!

What is Ellie up to these days... LOTS!

She eats EVERYTHING we give her. I love that she is off any and all types of baby food and eats leftovers at school the next day. This makes me plan our meals much better since she is consuming. She loves any type of fruit and all veggies (except for spinach). She is still sleeping great a night (7 p.m. - 7 a.m.) and takes 1 nap a day at school. She is babbling a lot more. I wish I knew what she was trying to say. She definitely has Da-Da and Da-Di down pat... She throws a Ma-Ma in every now and then. Jay swears she said Josie (our house cleaner) the other day. She tries to say "thank-you" and does say and waves "Bye". Everything she points to is "dis". She now likes to walk/run everywhere by herself, and can easily say "na" for no. She is also learning to feed herself with a spoon or fork which ends of quite messy!

She wasn't into our tree and ornaments until this week. Now, she takes all of them off the tree and brings them to me. She LOVES being outside, even in the FREEZING cold. She loves Mickey Mouse Clubhouse and the Hot Dog dance. She laughs and smiles all the time.

Jay has taught her to climb the stairs which is NOT a good thing. And last but not least, she tried Sophie's dog food tonight! Yummy!

She played in the ball pit for most of Turner's party

Borrowing Turner's Tricycle

Borrowing Turner's Cozy Coupe

Sweet Picture from AU/GA weekend of Ellie and Turner

Christmas Cards!!!

2010-12-01T20:42:00.002-05:00

I get so excited in December because that means it is time for Christmas cards! I LOVE receiving Christmas cards in the mail, especially ones with pictures. I have seen a couple of my blogger friends post about Shutterfly's Christmas Card Promotion, so I checked it out!

Last year we spent a pretty penny combining Ellie's announcement with our Christmas card. This year, I was hoping to save some money and can definitely do it now with this great promotion. They have so many great options for Christmas Photo Cards!

I can't decide on what type of card I want to do, but I know I want multiple pictures on the card. We recently had some professional pictures done of Ellie in her Christmas clothes, so I know we'll be using one of those! I would also like to include one with Ellie and Sophie if I can get both to cooperate for the camera at the same time!

I also like to do the Calendars for grandparents... this is a great gift that gives each month! I could spend hours on this site looking at all the fun things you can do for very cheap! I know next year I will check Shutterfly for Ellie's Birthday invitations.

Professional Pictures!

2010-11-29T14:45:00.006-05:00

We had Ellie's one year pictures done in Birmingham when we were over for her birthday. I am amazed at the shots Lauren got because 80% of the time Ellie was crying... Not the best day, but we are definitely pleased with how they came out! That's why she is a professional! Thanks again Lauren for the great pictures and dealing with a crying one-year-old!

War Eagle and Happy Holidays

WAR EAGLE! What a great year... so far!

2010-11-28T10:12:00.005-05:00

It wasn't pretty, but a W is W and we'll take it... especially when it's against the Bammers! This has been such a fun year for Auburn football. Going in not expecting much makes it so much more exciting. We didn't take many pictures during the game because our expressions weren't smiles. I think Jay taught my nieces and nephew a few new "not-so-nice" words during the game.

This had to have been BEFORE the game, because I promise Jay was not calm and collected until the end

I am amazed this year at the negativity from opposing fans and fans from outside of AU and AL before/during/after the Iron Bowl. I know it's the South and we all love our teams, but in the end - it's just a game. We all have our up and down years. It's lonely at the top ;-)

We are excited we'll see so many of our Auburn friends and family next weekend in Atlanta. I hope we can finish the season strong, and in Arizona in January!

3 little Auburn Cheerleaders (Ellie and Millie definitely have the screaming down)

MiMi and her "babies"

Turkey-ed Out!

2010-11-25T22:43:00.008-05:00

What a great Thanksgiving! We have so much to be thankful for, especially loving family! We were able to celebrate with both sides. We're stuffed and tired, but it's all worth it.

We ate... and ate...
(and Ellie ate EVERYTHING we had for Thanksgiving including turkey, turnips, corn casserole, dressing, pineapple casserole, broccoli casserole, mac and cheese, and the list goes on...)

We played... and played...

and ate dessert...
(fudge pie, sweet potato pie, red velvet cake, and apple pie)

and played some more...

and now we are fast asleep and ready for the Iron Bowl!

What a difference a year makes!

2010-11-24T16:02:00.002-05:00

Ellie 11/24/09

Ellie 11/24/10

Trying to catch up!

2010-11-23T21:11:00.007-05:00

I cannot believe my last post was about Halloween (and I think I was late on that one). Wow. What a crazy, and fast fall we are having. I need to catch everyone up on Ellie Mae. She is literally all over the place these days. She started walking so early, so running is her preference now. People constantly are asking me how old she is because she is so small, but so mobile. She is still on the small side with her weight - 18 pounds. We went ahead and turned her car seat around (I know - bad mom but we are all traveling better now), and are hoping she'll fill up on lots of turkey during Thanksgiving to hit the 20 pound mark soon!

She LOVES regular food and whole milk. She eats anything and everything. I love that about her and hope that will continue. I know it could stop at anytime. I would love to be off baby food, but I don't cook enough during the week to send her to school with real food. That is one of my resolutions for the new year ;-)

She is sleeping great at night, and napping great when she's home with us. She usually takes a 2-hour morning nap, and 1-hour afternoon nap. When she is at school, she sleeps for 1 hour max the whole day.

She loves her cozy coupe car she got for her birthday, and LOVES all types of balls.

She loves being outside and "playing" with the neighborhood boys. They are so, so sweet to her. We were at the beach this weekend and we found out that she loves the slide.

She can throw major temper tantrums at the drop of a hat.

She says bye and waves if you leave the room, or pick up her diaper bag. She says DaDa and MaMaMaMaMa.

She knows who Sophie is and will look for her. She is OBSESSED with Sophie and falls all over her all the time (thank you for a patient dog).

She's been to several Auburn games this season. I wouldn't say these would be a favorite time for her (or me). Maybe next year she'll enjoy them!

Helping with the dishes

Look at my cute Auburn outfit from my Aunt Kelly via SlagsRags!

I am hoping to get back on my regular blogging schedule soon! I am counting down the days to our slower time at work.

Halloween - better late than never!

2010-11-08T14:27:00.005-05:00

I feel like this is the tag line of my life right now... SO much going on! We had a great Halloween in our neighborhood and Ellie enjoyed trick-or-treating in our cul de sac! She is definitely the baby of the cul de sac, and I love that it's all boys. They are so sweet with her and always ask where "Baby Ellie" is if she is not with me. She adores them too, and wants to be where ever they are and doing what ever they are doing.

Trick or Treating with Daddy

With the cul de sac buddies

With my friend, Jane Ellen

With my neighborhood buddies