Praying4Daylight

The Story of Us: Link Up from Mrs. to Mama!

2012-02-14T10:41:00.001-06:00

I noticed on twitter last week that several girls were linking up their "Love Story." It's a fun little link up with from Mrs. to Mama. So in the spirit of Valentine's Day I thought I would share our story.

1. How long have you and your significant other been together?

Clay and I started dating on December 5th, 2003. We've been together 8 years! I can't believe it's been that long. And honestly it seems like a lifetime. I can't imagine life without him!

2. How did you meet? {What's your "love" story?}

We've known each other our entire lives. We went to the same school (elementary, middle and high)and our families lived next door to each other for a little while. We didn't start dating until a few years after high school. I ran into him one summer I was home from college. We exchanged phone numbers and started out as friends. We hung out a lot that summer. Went to the beach together with several of our friends. When I went back to Auburn for the fall semester, he would come down and we would tailgate and go to the games together. And I guess you could say the rest is history!

And just a side note...he was my first kiss. We were 5 and were on the playground at our church.

3. If married, how long have you been married?

We've been married for 5.5 years. We got married on June 17th, 2006

4. If you are married, where did you get married at? Big or small wedding?

We got married at the church I grew up in Smokerise, AL. We had about 100-150 guests. Our reception was also at the church.

5. Do you have any nick-names that you call one another? Do share!

We have a mutual nick-name for one another "Cledus." We call each other this when one of us does something dumb or acts crazy.

6. Name 3 things you love most about your honey.

His devotion to our family, his thoughtfulness and he is probably hands down the funniest person I know. The Lord knew I needed someone like Clay to put up with my craziness. :)

7. Tell us how he proposed?

It was like any other night. I had always told him that I didn't want a big proposal. Something simple. And that's exactly what he did. I had moved back home from college and was working at the time. It was a Saturday night, August 13th, 2005. We had gone and picked up sandwiches from Subway and rented The Pacifier with Vin Diesel and went back to his house. Like I said, a typical night for us. I remember getting up and going to the bathroom and the next thing I know I walk out and he's got music playing and is down on one knee asking me to marry him. Of course I said yes! I loved that it was just us and nobody else.

That night we went to my parents house to tell them the big news and then made our way to his mom's house. It was the perfect night! One I will always remember!!

8. Is he a flowers and teddy bear kind of guy for v-day, or strawberries, champagne, and rose petals?

He's really neither one of those. We usually celebrate Valentine's Day going out to dinner and to the movies or I will cook his favorite meal at home. He will usually send flowers and he always gets me a card. It's never anything extravagant!

9. Are you a sunset dinner on the beach kind of girl, or pop a movie in and relax on the couch?

We are definitely a pop in a movie and relax on the couch kinda' couple. I mostly fall asleep on the couch, which never turns out to well for Clay. Ha!

10. Tell us one thing you'd like to do with your significant one day. If you could do anything? Go anywhere?

Clay's dream is to go to St. Andrews in Scotland for the British Open. I would love for him to go with the boys one day. Of course I would tag along and shop shop shop! And we've always talked about going to Hawaii and Paris. Maybe one day.

11. Tell us what you plan on doing on this Valentine's Day.

Since Valentine's Day falls on my week to work, we'll probably celebrate next weekend. Something low key like dinner and a movie.

12. Are you asking for anything this Valentine's day?

I didn't ask for anything this year. We've got so much going on right now with a baby on the way and Clay finishing up his last semester of school. If I did ask for something it would be a weekend with just Clay and I. We don't get a lot of those.

13. Give us one piece of advice of keeping a relationship strong and full of love.

Some of the things I've learned...lift each other up and support one another. Be an encouragement to your spouse. Don't sweat the small stuff. Enjoy each other and ALWAYS take the time to laugh! You don't have to be serious all the time.

14. Show us a picture of what love means to you.

30 Weeks and Valentine's Day Party

2012-02-13T23:50:00.000-06:00

Pregnancy Highlights

How Far Along: 30 Weeks
Size of baby: Baby W is the size of a cabbage
Total Weight Gain/Loss: Gained 19 pounds.
Maternity Clothes: Yes!
Gender: It's a BOY! Jaxon Clay
Movement: ALL THE TIME!!! :)
Sleep: Surprisingly I slept really good this week, but I don't think I'm to far away from sleeping in the recliner.
What I miss: Not getting up in the middle of the night to go to the bathroom. Or every time I go into a store I'm looking for their restroom. Ha!!
Cravings: Loving everything! I made Nestle's Chocolate Chip Pie and have eaten over half of it by myself. I'm sure that contributing to the 3 pound weight gain this week. :)
Symptoms: Still having contractions and cramping every day just about everyday. I go back to the doctor on Wednesday. Praying I haven't dilated!!!
Best Moment this week: Being able to spend my last few weeks with Bryson as an only child. We took several naps together this week. We worked on puzzles EVERYDAY! I mentioned to Clay on Saturday night that I wanted to make the month of March all about B. I want to try and do several special things with him before we "rock his world!" Ha!

Today was Bryson's MDO Valentine's Day Party. This was the best picture I could get of him this morning before school. I hate that you can't see his shirt more. It has a cute red heart at the end of the tie.

This year I decided I would be "that mom!" The one who doesn't give candy. Between all of Bryson's grandparents, he gets way to much candy and I thought this year I would do something a little different and fun. Bryson is really into coloring and I thought sidewalk chalk would be something fun for the kids since the weather has been extremely warm for this time of year.

When I picked Bryson up today all he talked about were the colors pink and red. They had sent home a heart he had colored and when I put it up on the fridge he told me "Bryson did this momma." He was so proud of himself! And I am so proud of him too!!!

February - Photo A Day (Friday) Challenge

2012-02-10T23:26:00.000-06:00

Day 10 - Self Portrait

I guess you could say I cheated with this picture. Y'all I looked like a hot mess today, I couldn't imagine posting a picture of myself looking that way. Ha!

That picture was taken over 5 1/2 years ago. I have definitely aged. Pregnancy and a toddler will do that to you. Ha!!

Hope y'all have a wonderful Friday!!!

29 Weeks

2012-02-06T11:35:00.001-06:00

Pregnancy Highlights

How Far Along: 29 Weeks
Size of baby: Baby W is the size of a butternut squash
Total Weight Gain/Loss: Gained 16 pounds so far.
Maternity Clothes: Yes!
Gender: It's a BOY! Jaxon Clay
Movement: ALL THE TIME!!! :)
Sleep: I'm starting to get uncomfortable when I sleep. I toss and turn A LOT and I know that it's getting on Clay's nerves. Ha!
What I miss: I still have lots of energy, which is not such a good thing right now since I'm supposed to be taking it easy. But I've got several little projects on my list to do this week that don't require a lot of moving around.
Cravings: Still loving anything and everything! :)
Symptoms: Still having contractions every day, but I think the cramping is getting worse. I had to take off from work an extra day last week because the MD thinks that I'm eventually going to start dilating. Let's pray that doesn't happen for at least 7 for weeks!!!
Best Moment this week: For me this pregnancy is VERY bittersweet. With all the issues I've had this pregnancy, I've really enjoyed every minute. Clay and I are thinking this will probably be our last baby, so I've been taking in every kick and every movement Jaxon makes. I want to remember this time because I will never be able to get it back.

Project 365: Week Five

2012-02-04T20:10:00.001-06:00

January 29: My two favorite men in the world. I always try and get a picture of these two on Sunday's because they always look so handsome dressed up for church :)

January 30: On our way to MDO. I cannot believe that Bryson's been in MDO for a year. He has grown so much and really enjoys going to "school."

January 31: Our nightly routine. After Bryson gets his bath he will hang out in our room and we cuddle up and watch a movie or sometimes even a basketball game. This is probably my favorite time of the day.

February 1: I know Bryson has been in the rain before, but I don't know if he's ever felt it on his hands? Before taking him to MDO I let him stand right under the carport and stick his hand out to feel the rain. He was really into it. Maybe the next time it rains we'll go out and play.

February 2: Ever since I let him take his cars into the bathtub he's been obsessed! That's probably an understatement. Every night this week when he's gotten home he will come up to Clay and I and ask he can have a bubble bath and play with his cars. We've created a monster!!!

February 3: This has been my view for the last several months. It's getting to the point where I have to bend over just to see my feet. With all the issues going on I've really cherished this pregnancy. Probably because I know it's the last and I want to take in EVERY moment and remember this time.

February 4: My friend Mary was so sweet to monogram these towels for the boys. I'm hoping this summer I can get their bathroom completed.

February Photo A Day Challenge

2012-02-03T23:57:00.002-06:00

I've noticed several of my Twitter friends and on some of the blogs I read they are participating in the February Photo A Day Challenge. So I thought I would jump in and join the fun. Plus this will give me something to write a post on. Ha!

With all that I have going on (i.e. work, being mommy, extremely pregnant, project 365, etc), I think I'm only going take the pictures that fall on Fridays. I don't know if I could commit myself to take one everyday. I'm so overwhelmed with everything going on right now! But I love taking pictures and I love that this will give me somewhat of a challenge to capture the picture for that specific day.

Day 3 - Hands

I LOVE these little hands.

Bryson-ism's

2012-02-02T14:23:00.000-06:00

I have SO been looking forward to writing this post! But I wanted to wait until now to post it since Bryson is 2 1/2. This is really a post for me to remember some of the funny things that Bryson is saying and doing right now.

Your favorite songs to sing before bedtime are the theme song to Veggietales (which you will sing and then tell me that "I sing it momma, not you!"), Jesus Loves Me, Away in a Manger, and Twinkle,Twinkle Little Star (and that's how you ask them every night in that order)!

When you are looking for something and can't find it you'll say "It's gotta be somewheres."

You always request "God our Faa-der" for the blessing. And it's so sweet to watch you. You fold your hands and clothes your eyes so tight. Every now and then we catch you peeking. Ha!

Every morning when I go into your room to get you up and I'm finishing changing your diaper, you will stand up on the bed and give me a hug and say "I loves you ma-ma!" Melts my heart every time.

You LOVE singing in the car. Mostly to Veggietales. You almost always request Silliness or Lyle the Kindly Viking. You will look out the window and sing every song or repeat every word they say. Every now and then if Clay and I will sing the songs and you get so mad at us and tell us "NO mama, NO da-da, I sing it! Not you!" I guess your not wild about our singing abilities. Ha!

Pawpaw and Grandmaw gave you a Woody doll a few weeks ago that is just like the one in the movie Toy Story. You take him to bed with you every night and I always make sure he's turned off so your not tempted to play with him during the night. Every morning when you get up you will ask us to "Wake Woody up please." So cute and precious!!

You say "Aw-man" a lot! Especially if you are playing with your basketball goal and you miss a basket.

If you eat something that tastes good you'll look at us and say "Ummm - that's good stuff!"

Probably one of my favorite things you say right now is when we are driving in the car at night or if we go outside and it's dark you will try and find the moon. Once you find it you'll tell us "I see da moon." And then almost immediately after that you say "I can't reach it. It's too far away." And something else you'll do when we are in the car is when we come up on a stop sign you'll say "There's an octagon. Just one octagon da-da."

If there is something that you want you will ask us and Clay and I will usually repeat is just to make sure that's what your asking and you'll say "Okay" like we were the ones that suggested it in the first place. It's really funny!

This age is both fun and exciting and exhausting and trying. There are good days and bad days, but on those good days and not so good days are where I see my little boy for who God made him and I can't wait to see what all God has in store for him and his life.

Life for the Next 2 Days

2012-02-01T13:17:00.001-06:00

Last week I told y'all about my visit with Dr H. Well today I had my follow-up appointment and I received some good news and some bad news.

The good news first...my liver U/S came back clear. The Radiologist found nothing abnormal and I will have another U/S postpartum. Second, my liver enzymes have come back down! This is a HUGE answer to our prayers since this was the reason I delivered at 36 weeks with Bryson. We are just praying that they will continue to stay down!!! And third, I'm still not dilating!

On to the bad news...I'm still having contractions and cramping even with taking my Procardia. So I've been put on strict orders from the doc to be on bedrest for the next two days. Which means missing two days of work. I had already known that I would be missing Thursday since Dr. H and I decided it would be best for me to take a day off in between my work schedule. But this extra day is not something I expected when I went into the doctor's office today.

She told me that eventually she believes that the cramping and contracting are going to lead to me starting to dilate. Which is NOT something we want at this point considering I'm only 28 weeks. I will go back for another visit in 2 weeks to be checked and also to evaluate if I need to decrease more of my work load.

I am asking for your prayers for the next few months. And specifically that you would pray for the contractions and cramping to stop. Mommy, daddy and Bryson are not quite ready for little brother to make his appearance just yet!

What a Difference a Year Makes

2012-01-31T08:54:00.002-06:00

I came across these pictures on the computer the other day of Bryson's very first day of Mother's Day Out. I can't believe he's been in MDO for a year. Where has the time gone?

He looks so small! I remember him being so excited to carry his backpack.

I thought I would take a few pictures today on our way to MDO to see the difference a year makes.

Oh! These pictures make me want to cry!! My little boy is growing up SO fast. I can't imagine what he will look like a year from now.

28 Weeks

2012-01-30T10:12:00.003-06:00

Pregnancy Highlights

How Far Along: 28 Weeks
Size of baby: Baby W is the size of a melon
Total Weight Gain/Loss: Gained 13.5 pounds so far.
Maternity Clothes: Yes!
Gender: It's a BOY! Jaxon Clay
Movement: ALL THE TIME!!! :)
Sleep: Much better this week. I think last week I was just anticipating and nervous about my OB appt.
What I miss: Nothing! I think I'm in the honeymoon stage, so I've got lots of energy!
Cravings: I'm loving anything and everything this week. Hence the 2 pound weight gain. Ha!
Symptoms: Still having 3-5 contractions every day. Nothing too serious. But it helps when I can lay down and just relax.
Best Moment this week: Finding out that I haven't dilated. YAY!! That my fetal fibronectin test came back negative. WOO-HOO!! And that I will be able to take off one day during my work week! I'm still waiting on the results from my liver U/S and LFT's. I hope to hear about those results some time today.

Project 365: Week Four

2012-01-29T15:39:00.000-06:00

I have got to get better at posting these on Saturday. I always have every intention to, but get caught up with other things around the house and never get around to posting. I think I'll start writing each days description on that day, so all I have to do is upload this pictures.

We had somewhat of a laid back week. After having some contractions over the last two weeks I've decided to try and not do as much. That's SO much easier said than done. Ha!

January 22: I let Bryson take his matchbox cars with him to the bathtub. The best thing I have ever done! He has had so much with them this past week; it's all he wants to play with now.

January 23: Due to the tornado's that hit our state early Monday morning, Bryson didn't have school due to them closing for the day. He was enjoying watching Octonauts which by the way is his new favorite show. He wants to watch it everyday when he wakes up. Thank goodness for DVR :)

January 24: I really wasn't in the mood to cook on Tuesday night and I found this crock pot potato soup recipe that was Um-Um-Good!

January 25: I had my monthly visit to the OB on Wednesday. Me and Jaxon waiting on Dr. H.

January 26: Thursday was pajama day since it poured down rail ALL DAY! Can I just state for the record how much I HATE rainy days!!!

January 27: Clay and I have been itching to see The Grey with Liam Neeson (who has become one of my favorite actors) and of course it did not disappoint! Without saying too much, Clay wasn't very happy with the ending, but I kinda' liked it. We had a great date night! Love getting to spend time with my man!!!

January 28: My brother and SIL came up to my parents house and brought sweet Anna Katherine. I could not get over how sweet Bryson was being with her. He was so gentle and sweet. I'm hoping that is a small glimpse into our future. I was so proud to be his mommy!

Baby #2 Update

2012-01-26T15:01:00.002-06:00

Yesterday I had my monthly OB appointment. I had been dreading this visit for the last 3 weeks. I found out a few days after my last visit that my liver enzymes are starting to increase. I mentioned a few posts back that this same thing happened when I was pregnant with Bryson and they got so elevated we had to deliver 4 weeks early due to early stages of HELLP Syndrome and Pre-eclampsia. Ever since I found out about being pregnant with Jaxon Clay and I have been praying that we would not have to go through all of that again. My OB told us that she could not guarantee that I would make it to 36 weeks with my next pregnancy. That has been in the back of my mind these last 6 months. So when I got the call 3 weeks ago about them being elevated all my fears came back. And on top of that I have started having 3-5 contractions a day for the last week and a half along with some cramping (and that's after taking my meds).

Of course Tuesday night I couldn't sleep a wink. I was trying to make sure I remembered all the questions I needed to ask Dr. H and praying that everything would be okay. When I got to the office I had to start the dreaded Glucose test. Surely someone could invent a better drink than that nasty orange stuff. And drinking it on an empty stomach is even worse!!

Me and Jaxon waiting to see Dr. H

After I finished the test I went in to see Dr. H. We talked about my enzyme levels, the contractions and a some other concerns she and I have. She thought it would be a good idea to do the Fetal fibronectin test to check my risk for preterm delivery. I also had blood work drawn to check my liver enzymes and just for safe measure had an ultrasound of my liver to make sure it looks good. Jaxon's heartbeat was good, 158 and I'm measuring great! She also checked my cervix and PRAISE the Lord I'm closed and high!!! She also thought it would be a good idea for me to take a day off in the middle of my work week which I think will be another blessing and I promised her that I would do better at resting on my week off and let Bryson stay with my parents and Clay's grandparents a couple of days during the week so I can get some rest.

By the time I finished everything I was at the doctor for over 3 hours. And when I left I was starving. Ha!!! So I thought I would treat myself to Momma Goldberg's and a little retail therapy.

My favorite sandwich, Momma's Love with the Momma's Nachos and a cherry coke :)

I also stopped in one of the local baby shops next door and picked up a few things for Bryson and Jaxon. Did my grocery shopping for the next two weeks and then came home and crashed. I updated Clay on everything that had happened since he isn't able to go with me to my appointments and we are just praying everything turns out okay.

Late yesterday afternoon I got a call from the lab and one of our prayers had been answered. My fetal fibronectin test came back NEGATIVE!!! Now we are just awaiting the results of my liver enzymes, glucose test and liver ultrasound.

Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5: 16-18

Project 365: Week Three

2012-01-24T21:01:00.004-06:00

I'm a few days late getting this post up. I haven't been sleeping very well this last week, so any extra time I have I've been taking advantage of it and getting some sleep. This week was somewhat difficult to get pictures. Mainly because I work at night and sleep during the day for seven straight days, so I'll warn y'all that on my weeks to work the pictures might be a little boring and may even repeat themselves. Ha!

January 15: Bryson is never in a hurry on Sunday mornings. For some reason he always has time to sit down, watch cartoons and eat his breakfast. Ha!
January 16: Ever since my parents gave Bryson the Woody doll he goes everywhere with Bryson, even nap time.
January 17: Playing with mommy's iPhone while I get dinner ready.
January 18: Since Clay has started his student teaching, I have to leave work early so I can get home before he leaves so Bryson isn't by himself. On this day Bryson had MDO and while I got my shower he sat in our bedroom, ate breakfast and watched Mickey Mouse Clubhouse.
January 19: I was so excited to see this in the mail on Thursday. I can't believe I was able to snag a pair of these VS pajamas in my size! I'll be wearing these to the hospital when we have Jaxon.
January 20: My parents kept Bryson on Friday and my mom had to take my grandmother to the doctor. He looks like he's having a good time in the waiting room.
January 21: Our TV that Clay has had for over 10 years finally decided it was ready to kick the bucket. I took this picture Saturday right before it got hauled off.

27 Weeks & a Name Change

2012-01-23T16:39:00.000-06:00

Pregnancy Highlights

How Far Along: 27 Weeks
Size of baby: Baby W is the size of a head of cauliflower
Total Weight Gain/Loss: Gained 11.5 pounds so far.
Maternity Clothes: Yes!
Gender: It's a BOY!!!
Movement: He's moving non-stop. If this a sign, of my are we going to have our hands full!
Sleep: Not so much this week.
What I miss: Being able to tie my shoes. Ha! Bending over is getting harder and harder to do.
Cravings: This week it's been Arby's cherry turnover. I think I've had 4 or 5 this week.
Symptoms: My Braxton Hicks contractions are getting a little more intense. And I've started to have some mild cramping with them. Hoping having a week off will help this week.
Best Moment this week: I don't know if this would classify as a "Best Moment," but I have my doctor's appointment this week and I have a lot of questions and things to discuss with her since I saw her last month. Oh, and I get to see our little man on the screen too. :)

After talking it over with Clay we've decided that we are changing Jaxon's middle name. We really weren't set on Marcus and had some reservations about it since we talked about it. So baby boy #2's name is.......

JAXON CLAY

We are really excited about the name change and are looking forward to his arrival real soon. Good thing I haven't had anything monogrammed with his whole name just yet. Ha!!!

Bryson's Favorite iPhone Apps

2012-01-20T10:28:00.001-06:00

If any of you mom's are like me (and I hope there are a few of you out there), my toddler loves playing on my iPhone. So I thought I would share with y'all a few of Bryson's favorite apps.

I would say Monkey Preschool Lunchbox is by far his favorite of them all. Every time he has my phone he will go straight to this app. It teaches about colors, shapes, counting, letters, matching, etc. His favorite is the matching game. Right now you can get this app for $0.99.

This app might be a little more for boys since it has to do with Cars. It's the Lightning Was Here: My Puzzle Book. It features several different puzzles, a scavenger hunt for stickers and a way to record your own child's voice reading the book. This app is also $0.99.

Now I wouldn't call Netflix and educational app, but it has some great uses when Bryson is wanting to watch Veggietales or Toy Story 3. This has been a lifesaver at the grocery story or when we are waiting at the doctor's office. Netflix is a free app however you have to be a member in order to use it.

Peekaboo Barn is another one of our favorite apps. The barn bounces up and down and then the doors open and an animal appears. Each time the doors open a new animal pops up. Bryson is always shouting out the animals he knows. Peekaboo Barn is $1.99.

Jumpstart Preschool Magic is an app I just downloaded a few weeks ago. This is a great app for preschoolers. It includes games that practice colors, shapes, numbers, pre-reading skills, etc. It is available for $2.99.

I hope there are a few apps that I've listed your child might enjoy. And if you have any suggestions please leave me a comment so I can check them out. Hope y'all have a wonderful Friday!!!

Gonna Give it a Whirl

2012-01-19T08:52:00.003-06:00

Source: colorinc.typepad.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

Those of you that don't know me personally or do not follow me on pinterest probably have no idea that I am obsessed with everything photography. A BIG thanks to my dad for this obsession! Ha! With the birth of our second child on the way, I've been going back and forth about having maternity and newborn pictures done professionally. The big factor in all of this is of course $$$. Which is something we are lacking at this time with the hubby in school. And I need to be mindful of what we can/should spend our extra dollars on.

So yesterday I casually mentioned to my mom about taking my own maternity and newborn pictures. To which she replied "Oh yes, I think we can do that. If I can sew the bedding for Jaxon's nursery, then we can take these pictures!" And thus began my search on the internet for taking good newborn pictures.

After researching off and on last night I really think this is something my mom and I can tackle. I found some great websites with some very good tips and suggestions that I think will help. My mom and I both have good DSLR cameras (mine is a Canon EOS XSi and my mom has a Nikon) and I still have a few more months to get more familiar with my camera and learn a few more tricks.

I will tell y'all that I'm extremely nervous about doing this. I have high expectations when it comes to photography (which is a fault of mine I know). I'm nervous that I won't do a good job and then years down the road I'll regret not having them done professionally. Especially knowing that this is probably our last baby :(

Pictures are priceless and capture so much in a small amount of time. Years down the road I want to look back and remember every detail of that moment. I don't want to have ANY regrets! Because when your babies grow up, move away, get married, and have families of their own all you have are those pictures to help you remember those special moments that we sometimes forget about.

Jaxon's Nursery - Inspiration

2012-01-18T09:21:00.001-06:00

I kinda' had an idea of what I wanted to do for Jaxon's nursery since I found out I was pregnant. Something modern and completely different from Bryson's room. Not the typical boy colors (blue & brown).

Of course I've looked to the internet for inspiration. And thank goodness for pinterest! I don't know what I did without it. Ha! I'll admit that I'm a little nervous about how it's going to turn out. But I'm really excited about making the plans!!!

Source: sew4home.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

This Michael Miller Citron Gray fabric was the beginning of my inspiration for the nursery. I immediately new this was what I wanted and my mom was quick to order it and has started working on the bedding. She's finished the fitted sheet and pleated skirt so far. And it looks amazing! I'm so thankful for my mom and her taking the time out to do this for us. Thank you mom!!!

Source: chiccheapnursery.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

I love this chevron accent wall.

Source: etsy.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

I really want to incorporate something with "You are my sunshine" in his room. I have found several canvas prints and a few DIY's that I might could pull off.

Source: teamturnbow.blogspot.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

I think the stripes are more of what I'm going for. And how cute is that wall print?

I'm loving all these ideas and am really looking forward to starting on Jaxon's nursery.

26 Weeks

2012-01-17T08:59:00.000-06:00

Pregnancy Highlights

How Far Along: 26 Weeks
Size of baby: Baby W is the size of a English cucumber
Total Weight Gain/Loss: Lost 1 pound this week. Total is 10 pounds so far.
Maternity Clothes: Yes!
Gender: It's a BOY!!! Jaxon Marcus
Movement: All the time :) I can tell where is head and feet are. I get kicked a lot on my right side. Ha!
Sleep: It's getting better. Taking a few naps on some days.
What I miss: Feeling more uncomfortable. But it's all worth it!!!
Cravings: Haven't really craved anything this week. I'm just eating like a horse.
Symptoms: I started having a few mild contractions on Saturday. And I've had a few more since then. Hoping that if I go up on my meds it will help some. I've just got to find a way to take it easy. Easier said than done.
Best Moment this week: Clay will be starting his FINAL semester in school. Yay! We can see the light at the end of the tunnel. I can't tell y'all how proud of him I am. He has worked so hard these last 4 1/2 years and I cannot wait to see what all the Lord has in store for us this year.

Project 365: Week Two

2012-01-14T16:55:00.001-06:00

Well I'm two weeks in! I have to tell y'all I'm pretty proud of myself. Some days when we are just hanging around the house (which is alot these days), it's hard to get a picture that will tell about our day. And I think the in the winter months capturing a picture with a toddler can be a little difficult. That's my cue to bring on spring and summer. Ha!

January 8: Sunday Bryson thought it would be fun to brush Mr. Potato Head's hair after mommy had attempted to brush his. He's been doing alot of pretend play these days, which I find so adorable.
January 9: Monday night was the college football National Championship game. Even though we didn't have a dog in the fight I thought it would be fun to have something good to eat. So I found these easy little snacks on pinterest that were a big hit! And I added some vanilla ice cream to ours.
January 10: My mom has been working hard on Jaxon's crib bedding. I try and go over to my parents house a few times on my off week to help her out. She's been working on the crib skirt this week.
January 11: This is how my life has been with a two and a half year old the last several months. Oh my goodness has my patience been tested. For me this has been the hardest age so far. Tantrums after tantrums.
January 12: Bryson loves getting on Clay's shoulders. It's there new favorite thing to do together.
January 13: I have been craving some crazy things lately. Friday's breakfast of champions was chips and salsa.
January 14: Bryson is a bottomless pit. After getting haircuts for the boys we hopped over to O'Charley's for lunch and I think Bryson ate every roll that was brought out. I don't know what I'm going to do when he gets older.

Flashback Friday

2012-01-13T15:52:00.001-06:00

I can't believe I haven't blogged at all this week. We've been on the go so much that I really haven't had much time. But yesterday I was organizing Bryson's pictures on the computer and came across these from a year ago.

Oh that Handy Manny ball pit brings back a lot of fun memories :) It was last years Christmas gift from Pawpaw and Nana. It didn't quite make it a year. And if I remember right, it got a hole in it and had to be thrown away. Bryson had so much fun playing in it and I'm glad I took pictures to remember this time!

25 Weeks

2012-01-09T19:19:00.001-06:00

Pregnancy Highlights

How Far Along: 25 Weeks
Size of baby: Baby W is the size of a rutabaga
Total Weight Gain/Loss: Gained 11 pounds.
Maternity Clothes: Yes!
Gender: It's a BOY!!! Jaxon Marcus
Movement: All the time :)
Sleep: Was pretty good, given that it was my work week. I do toss and turn a lot though.
What I miss: I'm starting to get a little uncomfortable. I can't sit for long periods of time. I can't imagine what I will feel like at the end.
Cravings: Pancakes, bacon and honey roasted peanuts.
Symptoms: None.
Worst Moment this week: I got a call from my OB office last Monday and they told me my liver enzymes are elevated again. To say I'm nervous is an understatement! I didn't blog about it very much when I was pregnant with Bryson. But we ended up having to deliver at 36 weeks because they got so high (I developed HELLP syndrome and borderline pre-eclampsia). My prayer is that I can at least make it to 36 weeks again, but with a second pregnancy that's not guaranteed. I don't ask this very much, but your prayers would be much appreciated during this next few months.

I looked like a "hot mess" when Clay took my picture, so that's why it's only a belly pic. Ha!

Hope Y'all Have A Happy Monday!!!

Project 365: Week One

2012-01-07T23:20:00.007-06:00

I can't believe I'm getting on the bandwagon and committing to Project 365! I have to be honest, I'm really excited about the challenge and I know looking back I'll be so glad I did this. I'll go ahead and give this disclaimer... most of my pictures will probably consist mainly of Bryson; he's pretty much my life at this point. But I know there are several exciting things that will be happening this year that I'm sure will make it onto this project! :)

January 1: For New Year's Day we went over to Pawpaw and Nana's house to eat dinner. Bryson and Owen were having fun playing together and cutting up!

January 2: Bryson's new favorite place in the house is our closet. It is SO disorganized!!! Probably because I have to share it with Clay.

January 3: Bryson started back to MDO this week. He was really excited to go back. Mommy was too!

January 4: Bryson and Daddy before bedtime

January 5: Laundry...the story of my life. I try so hard to stay caught up, but by the looks of this pic I haven't been doing a good job. Ha!

January 6: Bryson eating one of his favorite foods...PIZZA!!!

January 7: Bryson got an Cars electric toothbrush in his stocking this Christmas and loves brushing his teeth now.

This was a lot of fun to do this week. I think there are many ways you can get really creative with the pictures you take. I hope I can stick with this through the whole year! I guess we'll have to wait and see.

The storyboard I used was from The Coffeeshop Blog. She has a lot of great templates and some really good tutorials using storyboards.

Baby #2 has a Name!!!

2012-01-06T23:46:00.000-06:00

I know, I know! I've been telling y'all for weeks that I would post baby #2's name. It's been crazy around our house with the holidays and me working every other week and Clay coaching two basketball teams. We haven't really had time to sit a talk about names. Well, FINALLY, Clay and I have decided on a name for baby #2 (I THINK!!!) We've had his first name picked out from the beginning, but are struggling over his middle. So don't be surprised if I have another blog post sharing a different middle name :)

Without further adieu..............................................

(This picture was taken almost 10 weeks ago, but it's the best one I have of him!)

Jaxon Marcus

The meaning behind the names... Jaxon is my grandmother maiden name on my mother's side, but spelled the traditional way (Jackson). I have always loved this name and if Clay hadn't been so determined, Bryson's name would have been Jaxon. Marcus is Clay's middle name and was actually the first name we picked out when thinking about middle names. Clay has been going back and forth on the middle name. I'm not so sure he's sold on it yet.

I have to tell y'all I'm getting really excited about being the mother of TWO boys! I have loved being a "Boy Mom!" And just thinking about my two sweet boys growing up together and becoming the best of friends makes me smile!!! I cannot wait to see what the Lord has in store for these two little monsters :)

Projects for 2012

2012-01-05T09:01:00.001-06:00

There are several projects that I've seen on pinterest and while reading other blogs that I want to try this year. But with the birth of our son in the coming months I didn't want to overload myself, so I thought one project a month sounded doable. Some of these projects might take me a little longer than a month, but I hope to get many of them completed before the end of 2012. Here are just a few I hope to accomplish...

Project 365 - I've been wanting to do Project 365 for a while. Since I don't do monthly posts on Bryson I thought this would be a fun way to document our lives during the week. I know this project is for the ENTIRE year and I hope that I can say at the end of 2012 that I completed it! Sarah over at Life {Sweet} Life posted about where she gets some of her designs for Project 365. My parents got me the Bamboo Capture for Christmas and it came with Photoshop Element, so I'm uber excited about using some of the templates for this project that Sarah posted!

Source: joelens.blogspot.com via Melissa on Pinterest

Freezer Meals - Since we will be adding a new addition to our family very soon, I want to designate a month to making freezer meals so that we will be stocked up when baby #2 arrives. With a toddler around the house and I'm sure ALOT of late nighters, I know I'm not going to want to be in the kitchen all evening. I have found several websites from pinterest that tells you all the DIY on freezing meals.

Source: my3boybarians.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

Taking Better Pictures - I've had my DSLR for almost two years and haven't gotten up the nerve to shoot in manual mode. For some strange reason it scares me to death to try. But this year I'm determined to learn!

Source: icanteachmychild.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

Memorizing Scripture w/Bryson - This was something else I found on pinterest and I can't wait to start doing this with Bryson. I know he's no where near the age to memorize, but I want to start teaching him about scripture and how important it is to know for everyday life.
Love You Because Message Board - Sarah blogged about this message board she found on pinterest and created some cute FREE printables.

Source: bystephanielynn.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

Family Framed Handprints - I thought this would be adorable to hang up in our bedroom and it looks fairly simple (that's if I can get Bryson to sit down long enough to trace his hand)

Source: projectnursery.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

Handprints & Footprints - can y'all tell I'm slightly obsessed with hand and footprints? I think this would be so sweet to have in baby #2's nursery.

Source: 3.bp.blogspot.com via Jennifer on Pinterest

Reading Wall - we are in the process of turning Bryson's room into a BIG BOY ROOM! I've completed part of this project that I blogged about here. There are just a few more finishing touches to add, then his room should be complete. I can't wait for that post!!!

Anna Katherine

2012-01-04T10:06:00.001-06:00

She's here!!! Well she's been here for 3 weeks, but I'm just now getting around to posting. Anna Katherine SURPRISED us all with her early arrival. But we are all happy she is here and are loving every minute with her! My brother and SIL are adjusting well and I am so proud of them. They are going to be AMAZING parents to this precious little angel.

She is such a doll. And you can't tell from this picture, but she has lots of hair :)

The new family of three!

A VERY excited Aunt! I can't wait to spoil her rotten!!!

Bryson was such a good sport the entire day we were at the hospital. I love watching him with the babies! I just hope he's this good with his brother.

Proud Pawpaw and Grandmaw!

I am so excited to welcome this little new addition to our family. I know she is going to be loved very much by both her cousins. And they will probably be very protective of her too.

Michele and Tommy, I am so happy for y'all. Parenthood is an amazing journey and quite the roller coaster ride. Enjoy every moment!!!