The Clarks

Preston Mac Clark~ he's here!

2014-02-07T08:31:00.002-08:00

Preston Mac Clark

January 15, 2014

4:55 PM

11 lbs 11 oz

22 inches long

I want to write about Preston's grand arrival before it becomes a blur! Let me start with the ultrasound from Dec. 31. Because I'm diabetic they did an ultrasound every 4 weeks beginning at 32 weeks to determine Preston's size. Well, on the 31st it was determined that he was approx. 9 lbs already. Needless to say, I was huge and miserable. I hate to say miserable because I was so thankful that I was pregnant and had made it that far in my pregnancy with no complications, but I still had around 4 weeks left for him to grow!! I went to the doctor 2 times weekly for non-stress tests (NST) and I left the office a few times in tears, everything was looking great on the NST- and for that I was EXTREMELY grateful, but I was so ready to have him!! Anyways- fast forward to Tuesday, January 14th, I had been hurting for a day or two at this point and I woke up Tuesday morning having contractions every 5 minutes. Thankfully, Seth had not left for work yet. I told him to call and get a sub- we needed to go to the hospital. He started calling people and I took a shower. It was the longest 45-minute drive to EAMC. I got there and they hooked me up to the NST machine and you could see my contractions. Well, I had to wait on the doctor on-call to make his rounds and then he came to visit me. By time he made it to my room, the contractions had stopped and I had not dilated or anything. He sent me home (huge upset) and said that he would see me again on Friday for my scheduled c-section, but to come back if my contractions came back and were 3-5 minutes apart, lasting for 30 seconds or longer and lasted more than an hour. Well, we headed home and the nurse told me to get a biscuit just in case we did have to come back- if I ate at that time, by time I came back I should be fine for surgery. So, we went home and I attempted to sleep. I would wake up every hour with a strong contraction, but they never got close together. I was extremely nauseated and my back was KILLING ME. Tuesday afternoon I did call my Mamaw Parker and asked if she would come sit with me on Wednesday so Seth could go to work and I would have someone with me in case I did go into labor. She agreed. Know; let me rewind just a bit... My mom was supposed to be flying into Alabama on Thursday- the day before Preston was set to arrive. After Tuesday's incident I called her and told her to get her ASAP!! Thankfully, she was able to purchase a new ticket for Wednesday Jan. 15, arriving in B'ham at 1:30. Now... Wednesday. Seth woke up and got ready to go to school and Janie Ann went to school, too. I was hurting all over still, but only 1 contraction per hour. Seth left around 6:30 and my grandmother arrived around 8:30. I had moved from the bed to the couch at this point- trying to get comfortable. Again, my back was KILLING me. When my grandmother arrived she asked how I was doing and I told her I was hurting, I had taken some pain meds and was in and out of sleep. I honestly have no idea what she did while I was lying on the couch! I know she cleaned a little, watched a little TV and made sure I was ok. Around 10 she started asking me if I needed to go to the doctor. I told her about the "rules" that I received from the doctor on the previous day, but she was adamant that something wasn't right and I needed to at least call the office. So, around 11:30 I was tired of hurting so badly and I called and left a message for the nurse to call me back. Well, 12:00 rolls around and no call. So, I call before lunch one more time and still nothing. This did not make my grandmother real happy. :) So, she fixed some lunch and begged me to eat something, but I was so nauseated I had no desire to eat! At 1:00 I called back to the office and finally talked to the nurse and she informed me to come on into the office and they would do a labor check. So, I brush my teeth, put my shoes on and grab my purse (thankfully my camera was in the bag from the previous day). I just knew that I was going to be sent home to wait, again. My grandmother drives, fairly quickly, to Auburn and drops me off at the door and parks the car. I sign in and do all the pregnancy stuff- when I come back to the waiting room my grandmother is at the window talking to the receptionist. I wait about 10 minutes and my grandmother goes back to the window and I finally get called back. I have to wait about 3 minutes and the doctor and nurse walk in the room and he checks me and says, "Well, your water is about to break and you are approximately 7 CM dilated. Why don't you get dressed and head on over to L&D. You will be having this baby shortly." I look at him and question him about the c-section- can I still have it? He looks at me and says, "You might not make it to the hospital before you have to start pushing, and you might have to have a VBAC." At this point I begin to panic. Seth knew I was at the doctor and I was anxious to call him. As I'm getting dressed my grandmother is making her way into the room. The nurse told her to go get the car; she would walk me to the door. L&D would be waiting on me. I get to the car, get my phone out to start calling everyone and.... it's dead. DEAD! I ask for my grandmother's phone...it's dead. I'm thinking- seriously, how can this be happening?? My grandmother takes me quickly across the street to the hospital and drops me off at the door and I head on up. When I get there I inform the nurses that my husband has no idea, could they please call him? Thankfully, they did!! While I'm in the room getting prepped to deliver our baby boy, without thinking, when they asked who was with me I inform them it's my grandmother... well, at the time EAMC was on "lock-down" and only allowing immediate family members to come back- immediate meaning mom, dad and siblings (over the age of 12)- NO GRANDPARENTS. I looked at the nurse and begged to let her back, at least until my husband got there, but they couldn't. At this point I'm frantic because I'm scared I'm going to have this baby before Seth makes it to the hospital and I will be back there by myself! Thankfully Seth arrived pretty quickly and he had called everyone. My mom was dropping off my grandfather in Alex City; my dad was headed to EAMC- along with Mrs. Vickie and Mr. Billy. Mrs. Vickie had to leave Hall's in New Site and Mr. Billy was coming from Sylacauga. Needless to say, no one was fully prepared to meet Mr. Preston that soon! When Seth arrived the on-call doctor, Dr. Litsey, walked in. When he walked in the room I felt instant relief. He delivered Janie Ann and knew that I was going to have, as he liked to put it, an extra-large baby. He discussed our options with us and the concerns he had with me having a VBAC. I informed him that the thought of a VBAC scared me and that I had mentally prepared for another c-section. So, it was set- c-section to begin at 4:30. (It was 4:10). Shortly after that my dad arrived and he was able to come back and see me for a minute, but he was the only one to make it before I went into surgery. From what I have been told- everyone was there when they were taking me back for surgery. So, they get the spinal done and everything set and they bring Seth in, I was nervous until he arrived. I'm lying there and I ask Seth and the anesthesiologist when they are going to begin. The anesthesiologist informs me that they are about to pull him out! With Janie Ann I felt so much pressure as they were getting her out, but with him I didn't feel any and it was instant relief when they pulled him out! I could truly breathe for the first time in 2 months without struggling! Dr. Harris, the assisting doctor, said, "he's going to need a haircut next week," and Dr. Litsey commented that we had a football player on our hands! He started screaming instantly! Then they weighed him, Seth said they did it 2 or 3 times to make sure the scales the correct! With Janie Ann, Seth brought her over and I was able to kiss her/see her and then they took her to the nursery. This time, Seth was able to walk around the OR with him and then they went to the recovery room with me and we were ale to do the Kangaroo care for the entire time I was in recovery. I really liked this experience- it was completely different than Janie Ann! Seth was able to go out and tell everyone that Preston was here and how much he weighed. Needless to say, everyone was shocked!
And that is the story of Preston Mac's grand arrival into this world! More to come later. Praying that I am able to update this more often!!

Wow...

2013-09-09T06:57:00.002-07:00

A lot has happened since my last post! Janie Ann learned to swim this summer without her life jacket, she went water skiing for the first time (and did a GREAT job!), and we also found out that Janie Ann is going to be a BIG SISTER!!!!

We were very shocked, nervous and excited when we found out the last week in May that we were expecting. We did not tell anyone for a little while because of the previous 2 miscarriages, we did not want to get our hopes up and then have to go through another miscarriage, even though those close to us would have found out anyways! I went to many doctor appointments, blood work and finally in June-- with my mother-in-law by me (because my mom had to go back to Reno), we heard the heartbeat of our precious new baby. Needless to say, tears were everywhere! That afternoon, Seth bought Janie Ann a BIG SISTER shirt and we told her about the baby in mommy's belly and let her call and make the announcement to her aunts, uncles and grandparents! Needless to say, she was SUPER excited! (Although I don't think she knows what is about to happen to her world!). She has been so sweet saying a prayer for mommy and the baby every night at bed time and she will rub my belly and talk to the baby-- it brings tears to my eyes EVERY.SINGLE.TIME! Due to my previous miscarriages I was put on progestrone and weekly visits to the OB and Endocrine doctor, but thankfully my OB says I'm doing VERY well and he has let me go 4 weeks between visits, TWICE! This is huge because with Janie Ann the longest I went between visits was 3 weeks- once! My bloodsugars have been awesome, praying they continue, I haven't gained too much weight and the baby's heartbeat is strong. I am currently at 20 weeks- half way there! This pregnancy has flown by, I believe partially, because did not tell for so long! I had a few weeks of morning sickness, heart-burn like no other and fatigue, but thankfully that was all during the summer while I was out of school, so I was able to manage it pretty well. Since going back to work the only issue I have had is my legs cramping, but I think that would have happened no matter what!

AND we just found out this weekend the sex of baby Clark! We went for an ultrasound on Thursday, September 5th and had the US Tech fold up the sex of the newest baby and I quickly handed off the paper/picture to my co-worker who made the cutest little box filled with pink or blue silly string and we waited until Saturday for the big reveal! Although I would like to figure out who first did the gender reveal thing and punch them, I have to admit-- it was fun finding out with the rest of the family. (Although some family was unable to make it-- you can watch the video on Facebook). We had enough bottles of silly string for Janie Ann and all of her cousins to have a bottle. All the kids lined up and we put Granddaddy Kenneth in front of them, on the count of 3 all of them sprayed him with the sting and it was BLUE! We are having a little BOY!!!! Needless to say, Seth and I were in shock! (Still are). When we had the ultrasound done, the tech was talking about the position of the baby and the tech said, "she's laying" this way... although we did not want to find out, we thought she accidentally left us a "clue". So from Thursday night to Saturday we discussed names, room color, decor, etc. and just about had everything planned....until Saturday at 2:00 when we found out that we were WRONG! :) You can look at the pictures on Facebook-- everyone had a great time and Janie Ann is warming up to the idea that she is going to have a baby brother instead of a baby sister!

I guess that is a lot of information for right now! Praying I can continue to keep this updated-- we have a lot of stuff planned over the next 2 months with tailgating and Janie Ann turning 4-- so stay tuned!

Update

2013-05-08T09:28:00.002-07:00

It seems like the only thing I do around here is update what has been going on-- no current posts. I really need to get better at this, I enjoy going back and reading my posts! You would think that would keep me blogging, but sadly it hasn't!

So..since February/March, what has happened? Well, we went to Reno for spring break and was able to be with my mom when she got married. She married Jim Dobson, but everyone calls him Dabo. He is very sweet and he loves my Janie Ann, so as long as he is good to my mom and is sweet to my baby, he is ok in my book! Yes, it was hard for me, but my mom is happy and that is all that matters. Now- if I can just get them to move to the south! Reno is too far away!!! I did not take any pictures, unfortunately, but the wedding photographer had some great shots- they are on facebook!

While in Reno Janie Ann took a private ski lesson. She wasn't too happy at the time, but once she was not able to see mommy and daddy, she did great! Her instructor was Mike and he was so sweet and patient. She went down the bunny slope about 4 times, he taught her how to pizza (stop) and go (french fry). He said by the end of the lesson she was even able to use her weight to turn a little. He bragged about what an awesome job she did and my favorite quote from him was, "I will definitely be seeing her in the Olympics one day!" (SUPER proud mom!) After her lesson, Janie Ann and I went back to my mom's house while my mom and Seth skied the rest of the afternoon! The next day (wedding rehearsal) I went up to ski with Seth, Paden, Aunt Steph and Uncle Mark. I have skied once before this day-- and it was a horrible experience. Needless to say, I was very timid and scared! We signed up for lessons, but they did not start until 1:00 and we were there at 11:00, so Steph, Mark and I went and "taught" ourselves how to ski. I'm sure it was entertaining to all the avid skiers that watched us! We were basically skiing on flat land with a minor slope, for a good 30 minutes before we had enough courage to go on the Flying Jenny (bunny slope ski lift). We successfully made it down the bunny slope (after getting off the lift- it wasn't one you sit and ride, you stand and ride on it). So, we did the bunny slope about 4 times before Seth made it down and gave us a few pointers. After one more down the bunny slope, we took a break, got our money back for the lessons and ate some lunch! Then the true test came... Seth and Paden took us to the blue slope. My first obstacle was getting on the ski lift. I am terrified of heights and especially heights when nothing is holding you in!!! But I survived, and I was even able to get off the lift without falling, the first time! Paden was put in charge of us and leading the way, Seth was going to stay back and help if anyone fell (thank goodness!). So, we are going...it isn't too bad...until we come to a sign, "THIS IS THE END OF THE TRAIL." Needless to say, I was NOT very happy that Paden was leading the way! We had one way to go...and it was down a steep hill! I started off ok, along with everyone else, but the closer we got to the bottom the faster I was going... I look up at one point and notice Mark on his back sliding down the hill, I start to laugh and down I went! I was laughing so hard at this point that I was unable to pop my ski off and get out of the way! Seth was trying to help me, but the way I landed every time I put pressure on my foot to move, I would pop my ski back on. Needless to say, it was entertaining to me, a little frustrating to Seth! I was finally able to flip over, stand up and get my ski back on and down the hill I went! And then, stupid me thought- "hey, this isn't so bad, lets do it again! And up I went...." I should have stopped at that point, but I didn't. I was getting tired, my legs were KILLING me and I had done just enough to enjoy it, but no... We went up and then caught another ski lift and went up a little higher... still blue slopes. First problem-- I come flying off the ski lift and bust it. Thankfully,, the guy running the lift did not have to stop it, he was able to run behind me and lift me up. So, down we go...we go around some big trees because it is an easier/less slope way to get down. I'm taking my time, wedging my skies so I don't go flying down the hill...you know, being cautious. Then we get down and I do not see Paden, Steph or Mark and it's just Seth and I. At this point, I'm ok, I'm tired and cranky, but ok. Then I see the HUGE slope in front of me and Seth is telling me that it will all be ok-- just go side to side and it's easier because you have more room to ski, so you can go slower. I start out ok and the longer it takes, the more tired I become and at this point, I'm pretty sure my blood sugar is dropping-- which all three of those combined do not make me nice. :| I might have said a few things to Seth that were not sweet and loving...but at the time, I felt they were appropriate because I felt like he was trying to kill me! When we FINALLY make it to the bottom (I might have cried.. and after stopping a few times next to trees so that we were out of the other skiers way) I popped my skis off and inside I went. I was DONE! Honestly, I don't care to ever ski again. It was fun for a few minutes, but the ski boots were uncomfortable and I never felt like I was in control of what I was doing. I felt like I was going slow one minute and then out of control, flying down the hill the next! I'm pretty sure I tweaked my knee at some point because it was killing me! So, Mark and I were done (yes, they were concerned because they had been waiting for about 15 minutes for us to get down!)-- we took off our skis, boots and returned them to the car- got on our tennis shoes and chilled out in the lounge until everyone was done! So, I waited for Paden to make it down the slope so taht we could head to the rehearsal... it was taking a while and I later find out that Paden had a pretty bad fall, he even thought he broke his leg, so he was taking it easy down the hill! We were about 10 minutes late for rehearsal, but we were alive and well, so there really wasn't much that could be said!

Besides skiing we went on a nice drive through California (Donner's Pass), ate lunch at a super nice resort (can't remember the name, but it was where the Olympics were held), went on around and let Janie Ann play in some snow-- took beautiful pictures! We had a nice, relaxing day with mom before everyone got to town! I have pictures that I will post later (I don't have my SD card with me right now). We had a wonderful, long, enjoying spring break, but when we returned I felt like I needed another break from my vacation!

After we got back from Reno, April hit us in full-force! We were busy EVERY.SINGLE.WEEKEND. First, when we returned (on a Saturday), that Sunday was Easter. Then the next weekend we had my dad's birthday, then the next weekend we had something, but I can't remember! Then it was A-day and Toomer's last roll, then we headed to Nashville the next weekend for Kelly Owens wedding- it was great weekend spent with my dad, brother, Seth and Janie Ann-- even though it rained the ENTIRE TIME! We enjoyed the beautiful wedding and Janie Ann danced her heart out at the reception! Last weekend we were able to relax at home all weekend...then Saturday night... :( My grandfather was on his way to bed after not feeling well all day and he became dizzy and called for my dad. When dad got to him, he had slid down the wall and did not take a hard fall. Daddy called Seth to come over and help him to get him back up. When Seth got there to help him up, Papaw told them that he was too weak and felt he needed to go to the hospital. Seth called me over to the house to talk to Papaw for a little while-- I was a complete mess, but Janie Ann, Ty and I loaded in the car and drove over. He was laying in the hallway, extremely weak, sweating and could barely hold his eyes open. I, of course, cried and told him how much I loved him. He, very weak, told me that he loved me and that he would be fine. Needless to say, I cried myself to sleep worried about him. Janie Ann slept with us that night, because life is too precious and I needed her next to me that night. He has been in the hospital since Saturday night-- we are hoping he can return home today, but not positive. The goal is to make sure he is comfortable, eating and drinking to keep him from being dehydrated. I'm scared that my Papaw will not be with us much longer and so I want to enjoy every minute I can with him-- and I want him to be comfortable and not in pain. I could be TOTALLY wrong, and I hope I am, and he could be with us for many more years. So, please keep him in your prayers-- along with his family as we prepare for what is to come.

That is all for today's post. I will add more later- as we have dance pictures this afternoon (for the 2nd time!) and the school year is coming to an end! YIPEE!!

What's Happening?

2013-02-16T06:22:00.000-08:00

Wow, it has been a while. Am I slacking or am I just enjoying life? I would say that I am enjoying every little bit of life that is happening right now and just haven't stopped long enough to blog! Let's see.... in the past month we have welcomed a new puppy into our family, Tyrone- the toy poodle, went to the circus, celebrated 14 days of Love, attended the church Valentine's Banquet, enjoyed busy weekends and preparing for a trip to Reno for spring break!

So, first- Tyrone. After Cadillac passed away Janie Ann asked us for a puppy that would live inside with her and sleep with her. A little background info- Caddy lived inside with us UNTIL Janie Ann was born and started crawling. I couldn't stand to see the white hair from Caddy on the floor, knowing that she would be crawling all over it. So, Seth and I began the search for a hypo-allergic, non-shedding dog. We started looking for a poodle-mix, something that would stay little and not get over 15 lbs and would not shed. Let me tell you what- there are some cute puppies out there. If you ever have time you just need to search Poodle Mixes, cavapoo, maltipoo, shihpoo...all cute fur balls! All SUPER expensive. The cheapest one we found was around $350, it was a cavapoo and they had to get rid of it because of a family problem. Seth then started searching for just a poodle and found some in the Montgomery newspaper. The guy had 6 male toy poodles, CKC registered in Deatsville, AL. So, we went to look at them, they were a red color and when we contacted him he had 5 left. He sent us pictures and I had my heart set on one of them. We texted him back and asked him to hold him for us, we were on our way after picking up our daughter and some friends (The Whiteards went with us!). I also contacted some friends that lived close to Deatsville to find out more information on the place we were going- is it safe, do you know the guy, etc. Turns out they didn't know him, but it was a safe location. We walked into his little shed and he had 2 puppies left, one of which is the one I wanted. He was a dark red color and cute as could be. He came running to us when we walked in and Janie Ann instantly fell in love. We were the proud new owners of a 2.3 lb poodle- to which was named

Tyrone Jackson Clark.

Janie Ann was in love! And I'm not sure that Tyrone knew what was going to happen to him! He was going to get so much love from such a little girl!! I can't wait (well, I can) to watch them grown up and become best of friends!!

Yes, super spoiled already!

The weekend after we got Ty we found out the circus was in Birmingham and thankfully they still had tickets for sale the day before!! So, we called the Whiteard family to see if they wanted to go with us and of course, they did! So Sunday afternoon we loaded up in their Expedition and headed to see the greatest show ever!

Neither Hudson nor Janie Ann took a nap on the way to Birmingham, which is what we had hoped to happen, so about half-way through the circus they started getting a little anxious, but the tiger and elephant events captured their attention, but after the elephants they were ready to go and it was almost over- so we headed out early to miss the traffic! Janie Ann also enjoyed the poodles and if you ask her about the poodle show, she will talk about the "tiny poodle that looked like Tyrone, he danced to Go shorty, go shorty- it's your birthday"- HILARIOUS!

The next thing on the list is the 14 days of love- we started this a little late, on Feb. 3rd, but every morning I would put out a treat in a box on the counter- something that Janie Ann loved- candy, snacks, games, etc.- she received a small treat every morning until Valentine's Day. I loved getting up with her on those mornings and she was so excited to see what she would get in her box. Seth and I made sure that she knew it was from us and not a special Valentine's cupid and that we did it because we love her so much. It was so sweet because each night she would come home, get her box and fill it with toys from her playroom so that she could give mommy and daddy prizes because she loves us so much!

Well, that is pretty much up to date for now! Today we have a birthday party to attend and another one tomorrow- then the twins have a party next weekend, then March comes along and my nephew will be turning 7- yes 7! Then we will be going to Disney on Ice and flying out to see my mom for spring break!! We have been super busy, but hopefully I will update more often, but no promises!

Goodbye 2012, Hello 2013!

2013-01-03T07:49:00.003-08:00

Here is a little recap of 2012... granted most of it is the negative, I did end on a positive note!

2012- one word- tough. But we made it. And overall it wasn’t really that bad, but at different times it was extremely tough and I questioned myself and God, a lot. I know I should never question God, but I did and I learned that He has a plan for me and my family and I just have to trust that His plan is the correct plan for me.

The first issue came in May—I have already blogged about the miscarriage that we went through at that point and I thought I would never get over it. I still haven’t gotten over it completely, but I have learned to cope. I still get depressed when I find out someone else I know is expecting, but I also have to realize that I had a successful first pregnancy, did not have any complications due to my diabetes, or any period, and my Janie Ann is healthy and beautiful. I just have to look at her and see how blessed we are whenever I get down and depressed.

The second issue came in October…I did not blog about this yet because it hurt so much—it still does but I have learned, again- His plan, not mine. But it was around October 20th—about 4 days after beginning our workout routine, I was extremely tired, fatigued, nauseated…something that normally does not occur with working out. So went to the store, bought a test and got a positive…. Yes, we were expecting again! Excited? Yes! Nervous—oh, boy YES! With the previous pregnancy it was tubal- therefore I had pain in my left side (which was sympathy pains because the tubal was on the right side). Anyways, I called and set up an appointment to see my doctor the following Thursday. Of course, I was panicked and very aware of any pains that my body had. Well, it was a Friday night and I started having pains in my left side. I stayed in bed all weekend and had an appointment with Dr. Marino on Monday to be checked out. They did a bed-side US and the only thing he saw was a cyst on my left ovary-- he thought it was approximately 2-4 MM, they did blood work and my HcG Level was around 250. So, I had an appointment to come back that following Wednesday- with the US tech and more lab work. The US tech noticed the cyst and said it was approximately the size of a grapefruit (9CM)- MUCH larger than earlier stated!! So, more blood work- levels increased to 340. They did not double as they should have, but they did rise. Let me say- this was the most difficult part. One nurse would tell me I was having a miscarriage, the next was very positive and it was just a slow start to pregnancy… this went on for 2 weeks. 2 weeks of pure torture. It was awful… miscarriage, pregnant, miscarriage, pregnant…. For 2 weeks. So anyways- Dr. Marino finally called me himself after my 3rd round of blood work and informed me that I was having another miscarriage. I was outside the AJHS cafe and I attempted to hold it together through the last 3 minutes of lunch. I got back to my classroom and lost it. Yes, I had students in there—who were all clueless, but it was the hardest and quietest that they have ever worked! So I went in to see him the following Tuesday (he called on a Friday) and because of the large cyst, he did not want it to burst because that would cause extreme pain, so we decided to go ahead and have surgery to get it removed. I was set up for surgery the following Tuesday (we are now in November), which is the day after Veteran’s day. Now- during all of this we celebrated Janie Ann’s 3rd birthday- I will have a blog dedicated just to her!  So, I was set up for surgery and went that morning- cried a few times because this was it. Along with removing the cyst he was going to do a DNC to make sure that everything was cleared out… maybe TMI?? Sorry! Anyways, got out of surgery and found out that there were actually 2 cyst- one on the tube and one on the ovary- both extremely large. They are both gone…hopefully for good! But needless to say, it will be an EXTREMELY long time before we attempt to get pregnant again, if ever. This is one of those times that I have to trust Him and not push what I want. Do I still have difficulty when people post on FB that they are pregnant? Yes. Have I cried? Yes. Do I get angry? Yes. Has Seth been extremely helpful and a good listener? Yes! Is he tired of my crying and being depressed at random times? I’m sure he is! Anyways- it’s now 2013 and we are moving forward—at times it will be extremely hard and I’m already preparing myself for the future “baby boom” of my friends and family (NO ONE IS CURRENTLY PREGNANT in my family, but I know it is coming). I still have not been able to attend Baby dedication at our church and it is something that I have been praying about, hard.

Anyways- the third thing is my grandfather getting sick and being in the hospital for about a week and then being placed in a 21-day rehab program at Chapman’s nursing home. Thankfully he did get better and is now back at home and doing great! :) So- one positive, right?!?!

The last thing that made 2012 extremely tough was on December 31, 2012; that morning Seth came and told me that my sweet Cadillac was no longer with us. :)Cadillac came into our family in the fall of 2004 as a sweet little puppy and he quickly took his spot in our family. He was 9 years old and we have no idea what happened to him. Janie Ann was a little sad at first, but because he was never an inside dog she only played with him when we went outside. She has requested that we get a dog inside…which I hope we can do later this year.

Along with the bad stuff- we had an overall great year! I know that it seems like all I have done is complain about how awful this year has been, but honestly we were able to celebrate many birthdays- my grandfather turned 91, Seth and I celebrated another year of marriage- 6 years, we both celebrated birthdays and Janie Ann has grown so much. She started her first year of preschool and she LOVES everything about it! She is still staying with Memaw 2 days a week and going to preschool 3. My dad is still able to take her every morning- which is a wonderful blessing for everyone! Seth and I started our 7th year of teaching, only 18 more years before retirement! :) I’m looking forward to 2013 and everything it has to offer! I’m going to start working out, taking more pictures and updating the blog more! I have enjoyed being able to go back and look at things from years past and I regret not posting more!!

Here’s to 2013!

October Birthday Girls!

2012-10-12T17:13:00.002-07:00

Today all the girls went to Mix It Up in Dadeville, AL to celebrate the October girl's! Clark Madison was born on October 18, 2006. Harper Baylee was born on October 21, 2008, Janie Ann was born October 30, 2009! Georgia just joined us because she was the only girl not born in October! :) It was a lot of fun and we will definitely be going back for more celebrations!!

Janie Ann and her Aunt Neena- her mini-me!

Clark was the pumpkin princess and Janie Ann was a butterfly!

Everyone had a great time!!! I still can't believe Janie Ann is going to turn 3!

Happy Birthday my October girls! I LOVE YOU BUNCHES!!!

Can we say slacker??

2012-09-29T08:44:00.002-07:00

So, I made a promise that I would update the blog weekly and I failed. I'm sorry to my readers (if I have any!) With the start of school and football season, along with Janie Ann's weekly dance lessons, time spent on the computer has decreased and time spent in the road has increased!! I am loving life right now, though and would not change it for the world! Janie Ann has learned so much in her little time at school and she is constantly amazing me and what she knows. She will be turning 3 soon-- too soon! We are beginning to play her birthday party which she has chosen the theme of "pretty in pink". Little does she know that she will be getting a bounce house to play on for her birthday party, but that we will also have to return it when the party is over! I'm so excited to see her face when we set it up!! She has also been asking to get her ears pierced for about the last week. Her older cousin, Harper, got hers pierced around July and Janie Ann has been wanting them pierced and so we went once and she backed out... now she is asking again and I'm thinking her daddy is not wanting it just yet! I can't decide if I want them pierced or not... I was very little (maybe 6 months??) and while I think that is too young, I'm not sure of the 'perfect' age to get your ears pierced. Any thoughts on this moms or dads?

Anyways- here are a few pictures of last weekend! We started out Saturday by tailgating for the AU vs. LSU game! It was a wonderful game and while we did not win- those boys gave it all they had and for us to almost beat the #2 team, I was very proud! And sadly, this is the only picture I have on my camera from the tailgate and we weren't even at the tailgate spot yet! But she has on a cute AU outfit made by Mrs. Debora Hunter or Gammie! :)

On Sunday we went with the church to little petting zoo in Clay County, AL. It was pretty nice little area- perfect for toddlers! Janie Ann was able to ride a pony and then a big horse and to say that she loved it was an understatement! She now has her heart set on getting a horse.... we shall see!

Hay ride with my nieces and Janie Ann (minus Georgia!).

She did not want her mommy or daddy walking with her- she wanted to do it all by herself!

WAR EAGLE!!!

2012-08-25T13:05:00.000-07:00

We are ONE WEEK away from College Football kick-off!!! Needless to say, after a wonderful summer break and starting back to school I'm ready for Saturday's on the Plains! Seth and I have been purchasing season tickets for about 7 years now and starting 4 years ago, when I was pregnant, we started purchasing 3 tickets so that Janie Ann would be able to go with us. Here are the pictures of her with her tickets every year! It is crazy how much she changes from year to year! NO- she has not had a hair cut!!

WAR EAGLE!!

More pictures from NYC

2012-08-25T12:40:00.000-07:00

Here are a few more pictures from our time in NYC!

Times Square

If you can't tell...NYC was under an air quality alert while we were visiting.

The memorial fountain where one of the towers once stood. There are two of these to represent the North and South Towers. Around the fountain are the names of the people who were in the specific building that lost their life. When you touch the names in the summer it is cool to the touch and when you touch them in the winter they are warm- it was beautiful.

The Survivor Tree

This was the only tree that survived the attack- it was saved and kept alive

and it is now the only tree of this type in the memorial gardens.

In the 9-11 Memorial gift shop, the Flag of Honor with

every ones name that lost their life on that day.

Brooklyn Bridge

New York City!!

2012-08-24T22:10:00.002-07:00

Seth and I were lucky enough to be able to visit New York City 10 years ago after high school graduation with our mother's. We saw and did a lot then.... 10 years later we were lucky enough to be able to visit NYC again with the Whiteard's! We had a BLAST!!! I'm not going to lie- I was scared. The last time we went to the big city we had our mom's to protect us and make sure we were where we needed to be, when we needed to be there and tell us how to get there! This time we were responsible for getting ourselves around the town! Thank goodness for smart phones and free Trip Advisor Apps, we survived and had a wonderful trip! We packed so much into our short time in NYC. We arrived on Thursday afternoon and had a limo at the airport waiting on us! It was a wonderful ride to our hotel, which was a block from Time's Square! We dropped off our luggage at the hotel and hit the streets, walking! I honestly can't remember what we did first, but I do know that we ate dinner at Carmine's Italian restaurant. It is a family-style dining that was absolutely wonderful! I would have eaten there for every meal! We ordered Chicken Parmesan and because it is family style, we only ordered one meal and then split the dessert. Carmine's was just around the corner from Time's Square and we only had to wait about 10 minutes! We also took a walk through Central Park and actually walked approx. 10 blocks, one way, to the Natural Museum of History...which was closed. Therefore, we turned around and walked back through Central Park. We passed Tavern on the Green, it is currently closed but had a sign stating they would be reopening in the spring of 2013. We continued walking back and stopped to watch a personal soccer coach helping a little boy, a softball game and 2 different games of kickball. We then returned to Time's Square and we visited different stores including the HUGE Toys R Us and Forever 21! I can't remember if we ate at Roxy's Thursday or Friday night, but we did stop one night and enjoy a wonderful piece of cheesecake! It would melt in your mouth- delicious!

Friday morning we woke up and had places to be! We purchased the Double-Decker bus tour tickets because we, Rachel and I, thought it would be a wonderful way to get around town (hoping for no taxi fees) and learn more about the City. So, we picked up our tickets and loaded the bus! We rode until we reached Battery Park, which is the area where you can get onto Miss New York and go visit the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island. We had about 2 hours before we had to be back at the World Trade Center/Freedom Tower/9-11 Memorial visiting area. We didn't spend too much time at either location, but they were doing a lot of construction on/around Lady Liberty and you were not able to go up her. So, we walked around the entire base and then loaded to go visit Ellis Island. I did wish we had more time to spend at Ellis Island, but we quickly went through the museum and ran back out to catch the boat back to Battery Park! We walked from Battery Park back to the Finical District where the 9-11 Memorial is located. There is a huge line/security area that you must go through before entering into the memorial area, but it went by quickly. Once I entered the memorial I instantly had an overwhelming feeling that felt very surreal. Seth and I saw the huge hole in the ground approx. 9 months after the attack, we saw all the rubble and flags, prayer ropes, signs, etc. Nothing was there- it was so peaceful there. The huge waterfalls were beautiful with every one's name around that had lost their life in the attack. I felt like I could have cried and I'm pretty sure I had a tear or two fall down my cheek. As I was the first time we visited, I was trying to imagine the chaos that was happening after the attacks and I also thanked God that my family was not effected. From the memorial park you exit through a gift shop. While the gift shop was PACKED with people, you would never know because it was so quiet- everyone paying respect to those that lost their lives. After we left the memorial we ate lunch and began walking again... we walked to Wall Street and went through Tiffany's, saw one of the Trump Towers and then headed towards the Brooklyn Bridge. At this point we were all pretty exhausted, but we wanted to cross the Brooklyn Bridge- and we did!! We might have purchased some $1 waters from random guys with white coolers, and they might have been the best thing we purchased on the trip, we might have all been complaining a little bit about being so tired, but we did it! After that we walked back to a bus stop and took the longest bus tour ride ever back to Time's Square! We then went in and rested for approximately 40 minutes before heading to the Yankee Stadium! That night we rode the Subway, and survived, to Yankee stadium to watch them play in the new stadium! After the game we rode back and wondered around Times Square some more! Then we rested for another busy day! We woke up Saturday morning and started off by going to the Natural Museum of History and then a taxi ride to Macy's! Macy's is an AMAZING store! We rode on some of the original wooden escalators and visited the Children's clothing that was located on the 7th floor!! We then wondered around the city- walked around NBC Studios, FOX News, etc. We ate some wonderful pizza for lunch and continued just walking around. Saturday night we were able to see "WICKED" on Broadway- A.M.A.Z.I.N.G! No other way to describe it! I loved every minute! I was scared that I would be so exhausted that there would be a lull in the play and I would be out! I'm so glad I was wrong! It was a wonderful play and I would definitely go watch it again. Although "The Lion King" is still my favorite- "WICKED" is #2 and then "42nd Street" is my 3rd. After the play we once again wondered around Times Square- picked up some more make-up for Janie Ann and headed back to the hotel to pack for flight home!

The Statue of Liberty

Seth at Ellis Island

The Clark's and Whiteard's in the 9-11 Memorial Park

The Brooklyn Bridge

The Museum of Natural History

We had a wonderful, quick, exhausting trip and while I loved every minute of the city that never sleeps, I sure was happy to get back to my little home in Daviston! I definitely want to go back, but I will be good for another 10 years! :) Janie Ann will be old enough to go back with us, then! I definitely could not handle taking her to that city- WAY too busy for me and baby!!

*Also, totally random side note, but a co-worker and I have decided to keep each other accountable for updating the blog. SO every weekend we will each be posting a new blog. So no more long breaks between updates! Up next- Auburn football!*

Where has the time gone?

2012-07-31T11:14:00.003-07:00

We started out the summer with so much to do and now we reaching the end of the summer with our last trip coming up in 2 days and I'm wondering where in the world did the time go??? I have enjoyed every minute of my summer break and I'm not ready for it to end- at all! While we did have a lot of trips planned and I was excited to go on each one, I did not wish my time between the trips away because with each trip we went on, the closer to the end of summer we were getting!! We went to the beach twice, my mom came in for a week long visit and we spent most of that time at the lake, and on Thursday we leave for NYC! With that....school starts in 2 weeks. :( Which also means my baby girl will be going to preschool 3 days a week and starting dance on August 14th! She will be taking ballet and tap- I didn't think she would be old enough to even care about it, but boy was I wrong! She is SO excited about preschool and dance she doesn't know what to do! She talks about it constantly and can't wait. We had to register for dance yesterday and she was so excited to try on tap and ballet shoes and was upset when we left without her getting to dance! So, needless to say this is going to be a hard school year to begin with and everyone at AJHS I would like to apologize ahead of time for being emotional- ha!

Here are a few random pictures from our summer adventures!

Family picture at Mexico Beach- the only one all summer!

Janie Ann and Hudson- I'm not sure what I'm going to do when school starts back and I don't get to see this little boy all the time!!!

Janie Ann and her cousins tubing! Clark and Georgia's first time tubing- Janie Ann's second! They all LOVED it! Clark told me, "Thanks Aunt Tippy for taking us tubing- this has been the best day ever!" (Of course, that was before her trip to Six Flags!! HA!)

I LOVE this picture- Janie Ann and her Daddy flying a kite at Mexico Beach!

In other fun news- Janie Ann can now swim from one side of the pool to the other with out her life jacket! She has truly done a great job swimming this summer and I can't wait to spend Saturday's at the pool once school begins!

Beach Pictures

2012-07-08T23:05:00.001-07:00

ok- for some reason the blogger picture upload isn't working properly tonight- so here is a teaser picture! :) (Facebook was also having issues). So I will hopefully upload more pictures tomorrow- we have been busy for the past week and I have actually taken my camera with me!!!

In other news- Seth and I will be going to NYC from August 2-5th with The Whiteard's- we deemed Summer of 2012 the Summer of Traveling! We will have gone to the beach 2 times and then NYC! We are so excited!!! Rachel and I have birthdays one day apart- hers is July 9th (today) and mine is July 10th (tomorrow)- so for our birthday present we are going to see Wicked! I have the book, just need to start reading it! It is long (approx 700 pages)- Seth is 1/2 was done with it, I need to begin reading soon!!! Anyways- more pictures and updates coming later!

Feelings....

2012-07-08T22:33:00.002-07:00

I have had a hard time here lately with my feelings...I want so badly to be happy for all of my friends that are expecting, but it has been extremely hard. Yes- I am excited for them, but it sucks, because I'm supposed to be pregnant, too. I'm not and that sucks. Last night we went to a wedding and it was extremely hard because everyone I saw was pregnant-- including one of our good friends who just had a baby and found out she is expecting again. I am happy for her, but then I start questioning myself and God- "Why not me?" I know there is a reason I'm not pregnant and that everything happens for a reason, I just wish I knew why!!! It is so frustrating. I have given it over to God, but the human part of me is still questioning why it happened. Are we not supposed to have any more children? Is Janie Ann supposed to be an only child?

Because I had the chemo-type shot I had to start using BC again so that I would not become pregnant, again, because the medicine could cause problems for up to 3 months after the shot, which is why I have started questioning myself.... I love Janie Ann with all my heart- I want her to be able to get whatever she wants (although she doesn't need to!), but I also want her to know the love of a sibling- I want her to know what it is like to love her brother/sister, to one day possibly have nieces and nephews, someone to talk to when she doesn't want to talk to mom and dad, someone to share secrets with, someone to sleep with her on Christmas Eve when they are both too excited because Santa Claus is coming to see them.... I know that I want to have another child- but did this happen to show me that I don't need another child?? I don't think I could possibly go through what I went through- again- it scares me. Badly. I don't want to know the joy of expecting and the heartbreak of finding out it wasn't meant to be. I am scared it will happen again. Seth and I were extremely lucky to not have any fertility issues with Janie Ann- I couldn't imagine having to go through fertility for years upon years-- I pray for those women and while I have always tried to be careful of what I say to couples (about having children- because you never know what personal problems they are having that could possibly be preventing them from having children)...anyways I am actually feeling better now that I have "blogged" about it. Please pray for Seth and I (pray for Seth, extremely hard, because my hormones are still all messed up!!) as we pray and discuss what the plans for the future hold- while we don't know right now- HE knows and pray that we listen to Him.

Beach time!!

2012-07-03T13:51:00.001-07:00

I completely forgot that I was able to blog from my phone!! We have been at the beautiful Gulf this past week, we left on Friday and currently on our way home! The weather was beautiful and Janie Ann and Hudson had a great time!! They were perfect babies and couldn't have asked for them to be better. Granted they did have there moments, but those were few and far between! I can't wait to get home and post pictures from my camera. I didn't take that many because let's face it, a nice camera on the beach with a toddler that is only interested in getting into the ocean to swim isn't that suitable! I hope I got a few good ones...we shall see! We will be picking my mom up from the airport tomorrow for the week, so excited!! July is going to be a busy month, hopefully I will take lots of pictures and make some more blog posts!!

Happy Anniversary!

2012-06-26T08:18:00.001-07:00

6 years ago I married the love of my life and now the father to our beautiful daughter- God could not have given me anyone more perfect for me than him!

I wish we could go back and enjoy that day all over again- we had a blast, even though the air conditioning in the church wasn't functioning properly and there wasn't enough room in the church to seat everyone! It could not have been more perfect! We have gone through a lot over the past 6 years- buying, selling and building houses, welcoming our beautiful (spoiled rotten) little girl into our lives, many, many traveling adventures (and more to come!!). It has been a wonderful 6 years- and honestly I think the hardest thing we have ever had to face as a couple happened this year- approximately 1 month ago and we made it! Thank you for always being there for me and holding me when I cry- laughing with me (or at me) during the fun times and praying for our family, constantly. I love you Seth!

hCG Levels

2012-06-19T20:23:00.002-07:00

Please continue to pray- my levels are currently at 22.7- still not at zero! Dr. Litsey's nurse called me today and told me to skip next week and to come back the next. PRAYING that my numbers are at zero then!!!

Summer

2012-06-16T09:21:00.001-07:00

I'm blogging from my phone! So glad I figured this out!

Last night Janie Ann had her cousin spend the night with her, according to them they are best friend cousins!

Rough beginning to summer...

2012-06-15T20:29:00.001-07:00

I think I'm ready to tell my story.... and please- no sympathy comments. I truly am doing much better than I ever expected. I am mainly writing this as documentation for myself...

This story begins on Thursday afternoon, May 10, 2012. I had been very nauseated, moody, emotional, etc. any symptom of being pregnant you can think of...so on our way home from Auburn we stopped at the store and purchased a pregnancy test. Let me stop here to say, we were not trying to get pregnant, yet. We got home and I took one....then another...and finally the third one- all positive. We were so excited! Nervous, but excited! My first thought was, "Janie Ann is not going to be my baby anymore, but she will be an amazing big sister!" I call the doctors office the next day to set up an appointment to confirm what we already knew- and since I am diabetic I go to the doctor more than most. I talked with Dr. Litsey's nurse and she laughed at me when I told her overall we had taken 5 test (ok, so we went and purchased 2 more!). She said you are most definitely pregnant. That was the Friday before Mother's day, so we decided that we would tell everyone on Mother's day- we tell early because my diabetes and the early weeks of pregnancy do not go well together- I would randomly drop extremely low and while family would recognize it once it happened- if they knew we were expecting they watch me a little closer! Anyways- we celebrated and everyone was so excited!

Well...Wednesday, May 16th our world was crushed with the beginning of the hardest 3 weeks of my life. I started bleeding. Of course I immediately call my mother and then my sister-in-law, both nurses, who tell me to take it easy- this is a normal side effect of pregnancy, sometimes. Especially since I wasn't cramping or anything at all. I needed to lay on my side, drink lots of water and stay hydrated and I was told to call the on-call doctor to let them know. So, I called and Dr. Golden was on-call. He again reassured me that this was common and not to stress- the first step would be to have my hCG Levels checked- hCG is a hormone that your body produces once you become pregnant. The range of the numbers to prove you are pregnant are crazy- during week 5 they should be between 5 and 5,000! So, we had to have that checked on Thursday and then come back on Monday to have them checked again to have numbers compared. My first hCG level was 251, then we had to wait ALL.WEEKEND.LONG! Needless to say, Seth would not allow me to do anything at all that weekend. I have never been so tired of taking naps! :) He truly went above and beyond to keep me rested, fed and hydrated- along with keeping our very active toddler occupied. The weekend finally came to an end and it was time to face the doctor's office, again. Now, mind you-- this was the last week of the school year and for my school it was time for finals and 1/2 days! I went first thing Monday morning, with the approval of my principal to return to work late on Monday after my lab appointment. So, I went and had my blood drawn and then went to school to wait....and wait...and wait... I finally received a phone call from Dr. Litsey that afternoon and he told me that my numbers had increased but only to 346- my numbers had not doubled. Which could mean a number of things, but most definitely meant that this was not a viable pregnancy. He was very through in explaining the different situations and told me to come back in about a week to have my numbers checked again, but to definitely call if I began having any cramps or abdominal pain because that most definitely meant that it was a tubal pregnancy and it could cause my tube to rupture, which could cause problems if not fixed quickly. So, of course the tears came-- along with having to tell all the family about what we were going through (although most of them already knew). It was an extremely hard night thinking about what I could have done differently to prevent this from happening- researching on google (HUGE MISTAKE!). Of course, I know there is nothing that I could have done differently to prevent this from happening and this was in God's plan- while I might not understand it right now, there was a reason that this was not meant to be and this is something that I have to constantly remind myself of- especially when I see on facebook all of my friends who are currently expecting/having babies. The next day I'm giving a biology exam and I start to cramp up extremely bad- to the point of tears. I know the group of boys that I was reading the exam to were extremely confused as to why I was crying about the tundra! I called the doctor and his nurse called me back and told me to be at the office that afternoon at 2:30 for an ultrasound to try to identify where this pregnancy was located and to ensure that my tube had no ruptured. Since this was the last day of school- my school released at noon, but Seth's class was celebrating at the swimming pool! Thankfully he has a very understanding administration and a great team of teachers that he works with that allowed him to leave to be with me during the ultrasound. So, we arrived at the doctor's office and waited for our name to be called. I can't remember the US Tech's name, but she was great with us when I was pregnant with Janie Ann and she was also great this time. She asked questions and then explained everything that she saw in the US. I had a mass of red blood cells in the left tube- meaning I had an ectopic pregnancy. She was so sweet when I broke down in tears in her office. She called Dr. Litsey to see what the next step would be, which was surgery, and because I was crying she gave me a hug and found Seth and I a seat that was not in the waiting room- away from everyone so people wouldn't look at us/talk. (I'm crying as I type this- she truly was great at that time.) Dr. Litsey then called Amy- the lady who we went to discuss the surgery with- he requested to speak to me and explained that while he would love to be able to do the surgery and be with me at this time, he was getting ready to leave the country on vacation and was leaving shortly. He asked if his partner, Dr. Marino, could do the procedure for me and that was fine with me- Dr. Marino actually helped to deliver Janie Ann. He answered all of my questions and we were prepared to be at the hospital at 4:30 for surgery.

Of course, we called everyone and while I did desperately want my mother to be there, but I understood it was not possible. When we were in pre-op talking to the doctor my Aunt showed up- I couldn't believe it, but it made me feel so much better because she didn't want Seth and I to be there alone. (Even though we told everyone not to worry about coming) Dr. Marino came in and talked to Seth and I about the surgery and then another option, methotrexate, which is used during chemotherapy to help your body stop reproducing new red blood cells. With the shot it was possible that I would be very nauseated, tired, headaches, and the big kicker was- it might not work and we might end up in surgery anyways. Of course, Seth and I talked about it and Seth went and called Sheena and Dr. Marino was wonderful and talked to Sheena and explained why he thought it was the best option. (And being the great SIL that she is- she asked about our upcoming beach trip which we were not able to go on. :() Sheena thought it would be the best option, along with my Aunt and Seth. So, we chose to have the shot and not undergo surgery. I had to have a lot of blood drawn to check different levels and then I also had to have the rH Factor shot because Seth and i have opposite something (dealing with blood...not positive what exactly it does, but I know that I had to get it when I was pregnant with Janie Ann, too). We were finally able to leave the hospital that night at 9:30ish. Thankfully everyone was going to Clark's pre-school graduation so Janie Ann didn't even realize we were missing because she was with her best friends! A huge thank you to Memaw, Grandpa and everyone else that night that kept Janie Ann for us and I would like to apologize to my niece because we were not able to make it that night- I know she will never remember or even realized we weren't there, but I cried and cried because we had to miss it. With the shot I had to go back to the office for blood work on the following Tuesday to ensure that my hCG levels were decreasing- and I had to continue to return every week until the levels were at zero. The first week following the shot, my levels were back down to 251, the next week they were down to 130, the next week they were down to 98- this past week I was certain they would be at 0, but they were at 37- so I have to return on Tuesday for more lab work. Praying that they will be at zero and this phase will be done. Prayers would be greatly appreciated!

With the chemo-type drug it is recommended that you wait 3 months from the shot before you attempt to get pregnant again...I am assuming it is because of all the drugs and the unknowns of what they do to the body. It has been extremely hard to look on Facebook and hear friends talk about finding out they are expecting or seeing pregnant women in the doctors office while I wait to have my blood drawn knowing that I am not longer pregnant. It sucks, but I know that there was a reason this happened and while I might not understand it now- I will one day. I have repeatedly had to tell myself, "God will not give you more than you can handle"

Now that this is off my chest- hopefully I can update the blog some more and it be about fun summer activities that we are doing! And more pictures my blog has been picture-less here lately, and that is no fun!!

Summer is here!

2012-06-02T19:49:00.004-07:00

YIPEE!!! Can you hear me screaming?? I have been out of school for over a week now- while the beginning of my break started off pretty rough and emotional (something to be discussed at a later time, not ready to talk about it yet.)-- it has quickly turned into a wonderful time! :) Why? Well, because there is no more alarms to wake me up, no more tests to give, no more students complaining about why math sucks, no more rushing to finish IEP's before a deadline....it is pure bliss. Waking up only when I hear Janie Ann scream, "MOMMMAA!" and returning to the bed so that she can watch a little bit of the iPad every morning, enjoying swimming at Memaw's (for 5 days straight), taking a day break to lounge around the house, only to wake up the next day to join some friends at Frog Legs and swim with them in the neighborhood pool (and for me to make a GRAND entrance into the pool!). It is nice, very nice. Seth's garden is producing like crazy- currently we have 70 quarts of green beans that he has canned- that is not including the ones he is currently canning, gave away or we have eaten! We have squash overflowing in the freezer and we are starting to have tomatoes produce (even though I don't like them), our blueberry plant is ripe and ready to be picked- we have turned into those people that I said I would never be! :) And I'm LOVING it!

I'm thinking about purchasing one of those rugs that you see on cruise ships that will tell you what day it is (of course, we would have to switch them out)- but during the summer with no routine- I have no idea what today is! Granted- on Monday Seth will begin teaching drivers education for 4 weeks, so we will have to get into some form of routine...

I hope to keep the blog more up-to date now that I have nothing else to do (but have fun), but I'm not making any promises! I also have to figure out how to link my phone/instagram pictures to my blog so that I can upload pictures. (I also need to pull out my nice camera and actually use it!).

HAPPY SUMMER everyone!

Summer??

2012-05-10T18:39:00.002-07:00

I'm pretty sure I sound like every other teacher out there right now, but I'm so ready for summer I can hardly stand it! We have 9 days until we, teachers, are DONE! One of those is a work-day, so I won't mind it too much, but I will still have to get up and go- so that is why I include it! Tomorrow is the 9th grade field day- I also have a meeting at 8am, I have to schedule approx. 8 more meetings to be held within that 9 day time period! Stressed and exhausted doesn't even begin to describe how I am feeling. I am thankful that I work with some awesome people who are going to help with those meetings! :) So, maybe after we get out for summer I will have time to upload pictures and actually blog about important stuff!!

Wow, can we say slacker?

2012-04-18T19:12:00.001-07:00

I have not given any time to the blog lately...a lot has happened in the last few weeks, hopefully I can get it all covered!

Last week was our spring break and my mom came home to visit with us! My mom arrived on Wednesday of the previous week and stayed through the Wednesday of our spring break. We had a wonderful time and we were able to enjoy some time at the beach! Janie, mom and I left on Friday after school and headed straight to PCB! Janie Ann LOVED the beach and the swimming pool! The pool was a little cool for me, ok a LOT, especially in the morning time, but by mid-afternoon it warmed up enough for us to enjoy it. The ocean was also cold, but not bad enough that we couldn't enjoy a walk down the beach! I didn't take many pictures while at the beach, but we will be going back soon!

Also during spring break Janie Ann went to her first dentist appointment with Dr. Keri Miller! She did AWESOME! It is a pediatric dentistry and they take the kids back without the parents- I was worried that Janie would cry, but who am I kidding, my child will go with anyone!! She went right on back without even turning back to look at us! It took about 20 minutes and they brought her back out, with a bag of goodies and a new shirt! She was then able to take us on a tour of where they cleaned her teeth and she showed us the chair she sat in, the glasses she wore and what they did! She was a champ! Let's just hope she will still love the dentist on May 10th when we have to return to get a cavity filled... yep, my baby has a cavity! We thought we were doing good in the teeth department because we never let her sleep with a sippy cup and always tried to keep her teeth clean! But, it happened and now we just have to get it fixed!

Another fun activity that we have started taking Janie Ann to is Frog Legs in Auburn. It is a huge building with inflatables. Janie Ann LOVES it! (And that might be an understatement!) Now, she request that we go to Frog Legs every weekend, and thanks to a wonderful friend and avid doll collector- she has been requesting some Lala Loopsy dolls. (Yes, that was totally random and related to this paragraph is no way!!)!

I know a lot more has happened, but my mind is extremely foggy right now and so I'm going to post this, so you will have something to read and now that I'm alive! :) On another note- before I go- I have entered Janie Ann into the PARENT'S Magazine Cover contest- please go vote for her! She is currently in the weekly contest- voting ends April 22!

http://photos.parents.com/parents-cover-contest-2012/16/2012/

Possible buisness??

2012-02-18T18:54:00.001-08:00

I have been making invitations for friends and our Church's baby showers for a while now- saving them as PDF and having them printed at a local shop in Auburn. I have now completed 3 invitations for friends and they have all seemed extremely pleased with the results. I'm thinking about possibly just charging $10-$20, depending on what you want, and I will design/edit the invite or whatever you want and I can email them to you and you can have them printed wherever you would like.

Again- this is just an idea that I have been thinking about doing...and I'm not even sure how many read this blog, but if you read- what do you think?? Here is an example of an invite that I have done (of course, information changed)

So, if you would be interested- PLEASE let me know! :) You can leave a comment here or you can email me at tsjaclark@gmail.com !!

Ramblings

2012-02-04T21:01:00.000-08:00

Well, it has been a while, again... I thought once I graduated from my master's program at Auburn University I would have more time to blog, but I don't! On Tuesday and Thursday I attend Zumba for an hour, then I enjoy my time with Seth and Janie Ann! She has changed SO MUCH over the past 3 months- her communication skills have GREATLY increased (she has always been a talker, but now she provides a lot of details), her personality is really shining through and I just don't want to take the time to sit down and type- I'm scared I will miss something! So, tonight she is already asleep and so I decided it would be a great time for a blog update!

Let's start with the biggest news...Janie Ann is POTTY TRAINED!! YIPPY!! She only wears diapers at nap time and night time! She will occasionally have an accident, but its only because she waits until the last minute to go potty and she will be at the potty pulling down her panties and start to tee-tee. It took one weekend- we would set the tee-tee timer for every 20 minutes and at least try to potty- of course we would then do a crazy dance when she would successfully potty and cheer and clap for her, so that helped out, but by Sunday she was able to tell us when she needed to potty! I was one proud momma! We had attempted the potty training a few times before, but I don't think she was ready, this time she was ready! While I didn't think about it when I wanted her trained- going out in public with a toddler that just has to check out every public restroom- public restrooms are disgusting! It really grosses me out having to sit her on those potties, I've tried holding her over the potty, but that didn't turn out like I planned for it to! Any suggestions?? I don't let her hold onto the potty- the potty covers always slide from under her hiney when I sit her down, so it doesn't work...

Moving on... Janie Ann has really started to enjoy watching movies, but not your typical princess movies, no...her favorites right now? The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, Cat in the Hat and my favorite one...Harry and the Henderson's! We try to watch all the Disney movies that she has, but none of them keep her attention like Harry! Oh, she does like The Lion King, especially the part where Pumba and Timon poots...yes, so much for my pretty, pretty princess little girl, I have a tomboy on my hands who likes anything gross, but I wouldn't trade her for the world!! But, another thing Janie Ann has started doing is going through her clothes periodically throughout the day and changing- nightmare for me #1- because her furniture isn't bolted to the walls! She has already pulled her nightstand on top of her- I'm praying we can get the furniture mounted before something big falls on her! #2- I already hate washing clothes and when she changes 1 million times throughout the day, that increase my laundry load! Although it is extremely cute to see exactly what she has picked out to wear- usually when I notice her she says, "I so pretty momma," with a HUGE grin on her face!

Well, I guess that is all for tonight- hopefully I will update more sooner rather than later! Super Bowl tomorrow- we will have a few friends over, hopefully I can remember to take pictures and maybe have a post about that!

Long time, no post

2011-12-30T00:00:00.000-08:00

Yes- it has been FOREVER since I have updated the blog! A lot has happened since then...graduation, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and a trip to Reno! Currently we are in Reno- having a BLAST! I have TONS of pictures- hopefully I will be able to upload a random selection and update with the pictures...so lets see what uploads correctly! :)

Christmas cookies with MeMaw! Every Christmas Eve we start off the morning with a community breakfast, then all of the Clark grand kids/niece's all go MeMaw's house and bake cookies for Santa Claus! They also make reindeer food!You can't tell in this picture, but all the grand kids have matching PJ's, which is something Seth and I started buying for our niece and nephew-when there was only 2 of them...now there is 6 and we still continue the tradition!

Putting out cookies for Santa! She LOVED preparing for him to come, but did not like the idea of Santa Claus coming to her house! My favorite quote from the holiday season was, "Santa not bring me presents, Daddy buy me presents."

Janie Ann received a microphone from Santa Claus- it was a HIT! The iPod connects to it and she can sing along to her favorite Justin Bieber song...Baby or Mistletoe, depending on her mood! Hopefully I can post a video soon.

This picture was taken before she saw what Santa brought her- obviously morning is not our best time! Her hair is CRAZY! And this is what it looks like on most mornings!

I don't have any pictures of her and Hudson on the plane, but on Christmas day we left the house around 10:45 am headed to Alex City to pick up the Whiteard's and meet my brother and his girlfriend, Kaci, to head to the airport! We flew out of Birmingham at 4:35 to Reno, NV to spend a week with my mom! We arrived in Reno at 8:55 NV time,10:55 at home. We had a great flight- long- but great! We slept as late at the babies would let us on Monday morning and woke up ready to explore! We went to Virginia City and stopped at the lookout- it was beautiful!

Family picture at the lookout! And, yes, normally during this time of the year this area is covered in snow and we would be wrapped up and still cold...but, it was warmer in NV than it was at home. It was kind of a bummer that there was no snow, but I don't think my nerves could have handled driving in the snow! We had a great time exploring in the beautiful weather- and because it was so pretty, we could travel without having someone experienced driving in snow to drive us around! :)

On Tuesday we drove to Lake Tahoe- again, absolutely beautiful! So pretty and clear, of course, the water is still FREEEEZING cold!

Gigi and Janie Ann- with the cutest beanie hat- EVER! When we arrived mom had 3 of them for her...so including the 3 we brought with us-this child had enough hats to last her for the rest of the season and hopefully at least one more winter season!

On Wednesday we went to Mt. Rose- where they are making snow so that people can ski! It is beautiful, too. Seth, Paden and Kaci all went to ski school for 90 minutes, while they were at ski school, Cole was skiing independently and Rachel and I were playing with the babies in the snow. Janie Ann watched the "Little Mule" ski school participants and so we went in to see if I could get her into the ski school, unfortunately she was still too young, but they let me rent her a pair of skis and get a ski lift ticket. I was SO PROUD I decided to do this, because it was the more precious thing I had ever seen! My mom's boyfriend, Dabo (Not his real name), has been skiing for a long time, so he came and helped us to get Janie Ann in her skis and get her set to come down the hill!

How stinking cute?!?!

Group picture (minus a few)

Janie Ann skiing down the hill! I was such a proud momma! There is a video posted on FaceBook. If I can figure out how to upload it here, I will! We have had a great time- this is our last night and we are all exhausted. The boys (and possibly Kaci) are going to wake up and go skiing in the morning, while I attempt to figure out how to get ALL the CRAP we packed to come out here, packed back up (along with a few extra items that were picked up at after-Christmas sales!)

Well, a little late, but we now have a TWO year old!!

2011-11-11T14:10:00.000-08:00

Well, I said I would post on her birthday, but life got in the way! We were super busy on her actual birthday with Trick or Trunk at church and many other events! So, I'm late, but I'm still going to post all about Janie Ann!

November 2nd we went for her check-up and she weighed 31lbs and was 35 inches tall! Such a big girl! She was able to get Flu Mist at the appointment and did very well with that! Thank goodness we didn't have to do the flu shot!!! Right now she is able to carry on full conversations with us; telling us what she likes and dis-likes and what she will and won't do! She LOVES Justin Beiber and his song "Baby". She is able to spot him on a book, magazine cover or TV and whenever she sees him she stops whatever she is doing to watch/look at him! It is crazy! She LOVES cheese right! She would eat it all day, every day! Any form of cheese- slice, block, string! She also loves fruit- right now grapes are her fruit of choice. She also request yogurt and of course, cookies! She is on her way to being potty trained- some days she does better than others. She loves to read books and her favorite movies are Toy Story and Alvin and the Chipmunks. She loves to dress herself and considers herself to be a "Princess!" I asked her the other day if she was a big girl or a baby and her was, "No, I a princess, mommy!" She constantly ask to have her picture taken and whenever I pull my phone out in the car, I hear her in the back seat saying, "cheeeesssee!"

Seth and I are LOVING this stage, even though she can be a tad bit bossy! And hopefully now that I am done with written and comps (and passed)- I will have more time to make posts!!