The Falcons' Nest

I'm a Shutterfly.....How about You??

2010-11-23T17:52:00.000-08:00

For those of you who have never heard of it, Shutterfly is an online photo processing website that offers many really cool products and designs. I wanted to pop some cute examples of their Christmas card designs into my post, but I REALLY couldn't decide which ones to choose. There are over 800 different Christmas card designs!!! Here are a couple that I have my eye on at the moment….
I just can't wait to take some awesome family shots, upload them and create out Christmas card this year.

By signing up with Shutterfly you can also upload and store as many photos as you want for free. You can receive you prints or products by mail or pick them up at Target, Walgreens, or CVS…..how convenient!!

My absolute favorite product from Shutterfly is their photo books. I made a photo book to celebrate Lily’s first year and it was so easy and turned out so nice that I made another one for her second year and plan to continue to make them each year. They also offer birthday invitations, baby shower invitations, and wall calendars (what a great gift for grandparents!) The products I've created through Shutterfly have all be great quality and very reasonable prices. Check them out!

Black Friday Fever

2010-11-16T16:42:00.001-08:00

It has begun already!!! Although it ultimately gives me major anxiety...fighting the crowds, searching the stores, etc....I LOVE Black Friday. I love looking at all the ads and trying to decide what I'm going to buy and which store has the best price. I just discovered this year that there's a website that has all the ads that have already been "leaked" so we don't have wait until Thanksgiving day to start forming our game plan!! I'm a little disappointed though because there doesn't seem to be too many deals that I "Must Have". There are a few things that we will go looking for, like movies, cheap pajamas, etc., but nothing major this year. It's still fun though. Check out the website and see what you're willing to get up before dawn, wait in line, and fight the crowds for this year. Or will you just skip it all together?

Realm of the Tiger

2010-04-17T17:15:00.000-07:00

How awesome is that?? Today we got to go to the Grand Opening of the Realm of the Tiger exhibit at the BR Zoo. It was pretty neat. They even opened a new walk through Aviary with some interesting birds. Lily had a blast. I sat her down to get her face painted, but all she got was a black nose. She wouldn't let the girl paint her tiger whiskers.

Watching the Elephant Show

All she kept saying was "hey goat, hey goat, hey goat!" She loved getting to pet and brush the goats.

Ham and Cheese (Chuck E.)

2010-04-17T17:04:00.000-07:00

Earlier this week, Lily and I drove to St. Francisville to meet my baby sis Gabby. She and Lyndon were down from Illinois and we wanted to take the opportunity to bring her all of Lily's outgrown clothes for her little baby on the way. Sophie is due in July! Can't wait!!!
Since the McDonald's we met at doesn't have a playground anymore the kiddos turned the back of my car into their own play place! Earlier this month, Clare, Daniel, Jezebel, and bellybaby Norman all drove down from Colorado. We took the opportunity to get all the peeps and kiddos together again. The kids had fun running around and we got to enjoy each others company. It was great to see you girls and your families!!

What a little ham!!

Easter

2010-04-17T16:43:00.000-07:00

This year we had plenty to do for Easter. On the Wednesday before Easter, Lily's class had their party and Easter egg hunt. She came home with PLENTY of candy and treats! She and I had the day off on Good Friday so we spent most of the day baking and decorating sugar cookies for the Easter Egg Hunt we attended at the McKinney's house. It was a blast. On Easter Sunday, after church we went for some family time at Josh's Grandmother's house in Plattenville. It was a very busy weekend for us, but so much fun!

Did you miss us?

2009-11-14T04:44:00.000-08:00

Well, much has happened since I last posted. That's what happens when you don't post anything new for a couple of months, right? Recently, Josh purchased two used kayaks and has become OBSESSED with kayak fishing. Hey, as long as he keeps bringing home yummy supper, I'm not complaining! I can't wait to go with him!

In Lily News, she FINALLY started walking about a month ago (I know I should have posted then, but I just never got around to it). She took her first step on a Sunday night there was no stopping her after that. She took a few more steps each day and is practically running now. This whole walking thing has opened up a whole new set of dance moves for her. If she hears any kind of beat, she's dancing. Even if it's just us saying "go Lily, go Lily" over and over. She LOVES to dance.
She can also say more and more words. She copies just about everything we say.

Her favorite thing to do right now is to get something she know she should have and run from us, laughing. Chase is her game! She gets so giggley she almost can't get away. It's soooo cute.

She also LOVES animals. Below is a picture of her in the petting zoo at the Oak Alley Plantation Craft Show. Any time she sees an animal she gets so excited. Even if it's on TV or stuffed, she doesn't care. She starts making these cute little squealy noises and has to get as close to it as possible. In Erika news, I've been busy trying to sew things for a few little craft markets I'm doing with my friend Janie. We're planning to do several big craft shows in the spring. I'm really excited about it. It's nice to have someone to do it with, instead of having to drag Josh along everytime. I've also been busy at work too. This year my class is ALL BOYS! I had 7 for a while, then I got a new one this Tuesday and another new one will start on Monday, bringing my grand total to 9. Can you imagine teaching/caring for 9 three and four year old BOYS all day. Yeah, it's as bad as you think, times two. Don't get me wrong, they are all good boys, I can't complain about that, but they are just so rough and get each other so amped up without any girls in the mix to calm things down. Ugh! BOYS!!!

Oh yeah, here is a picture of Lily trick-or-treating. She was a candy corn. I didn't get any good pictures of the front, because she was crying during our "photo session".

Lillou Giveaway!

2009-09-20T11:46:00.000-07:00

Check out my Lillou Handmade Blog. http://www.lillouhandmade.blogspot.com/ I'm giving away a pair of purple and gold Christmas stockings. They are too cute (if I do say so myself). You've GOTTA enter! You know you want them. They would be perfect for you! :)

Cutie Patooties

2009-09-13T17:44:00.000-07:00

I found this cute t-shirt for Lily at Target on Friday for $1.25 so I thought it would be ok to experiment with it since I got it so cheap. I wanted to try to add a skirt to it. I think it turned out cute....a little short, but that's what leggings or bloomers are for right?? Next time I don't think I'll put elastic around the top....it just kept riding up...otherwise it would've been long enough. I even made a "messy flower" for the front of it (that's my favorite part). Unfortunately you can't see the flower in the picture, but it was too cute of pic not to post it. Enjoy!

Free Tickets!!!

2009-09-11T19:47:00.001-07:00

Before you get too excited, it's not for a cool concert or anything like that. I volunteered to pass out flyers for the Rhea Lana Consignment Event, so I got some passes to get into the sale early! The actual sale starts on Wednesday, September 23 and the Half-Price sale starts Saturday, September 26. I got some for me and some to pass along so I decided to give them away here on my bliggity blog. It's gonna be first comment, first served. If you want to go and are actually going to be able to go then leave me a comment telling me which ticket you want and I'll mail it to you.
Pass Number One:
"Guest Pass"
Tuesday, September 22
7-9 PM
One guest and friend per pass
(I have two of these)
Pass Number Two:
"Guest Pass"
Half Price Sale
Friday, September 25
8-10 PM
One guest and friend per pass
(I have two of these)

Dates and Times of the Sale (admission is free of course)
Wed., Sept. 23, 9am-6pm
Thurs., Sept. 24, 9am-6pm
Fri., Sept. 25, 9am-5pm
Half Price Sale
Sat., Sept. 26, 8am-2pm

I'm going to have a booth this time!!! I'm so excited. I will only be there Tuesday evening and all day Friday and Saturday.....drop by and see me!

If you would like any more information about the event, or to sign-up to be a consigner (which I highly recommend), please visit www.rhealana.com

A new attitude

2009-09-08T14:04:00.000-07:00

Ok, so in college I used to thing that I'd LOVE to be a stay-at-home-mom. I thought there would be nothing better in the world. Then, I got put on bed rest 20 weeks into my pregnancy. Although the high blood pressure went down, my doctor never released me from bed rest. I spent about 5 months at home with nothing to do. This experience left me feeling like I would go insane if I was stuck in the house and not going to work everyday. I just didn't think I could handle not having somewhere to go and something to do each day. Well, lately I've been feeling really overwhelmed, like I just can't get anything done around the house. I just don't have time to do anything that I WANT to do. I feel like work is getting in the way of my life, ya know, especially since starting this whole etsy store. So, Josh and I are starting to talk about saving up some money over the next year or two and perhaps me quitting my job and staying home to take care of babies and the house.
Today I'm at home with Lily because she has a pretty nasty cold (going to the Dr. tomorrow) and I must say, I am being a very productive little home-maker. I have made a considerable dent in cleaning the "office" and turning it into an actual workspace for Josh and I. This room was so bad that we should have called "Clean Sweep" to come tackle it. I've done some laundry and I've even got supper cooking (Josh usually does the cooking). I'm loving my taste of being a stay-at-home mom!

So this isn't a completely picture-less post, i'm throwing in some pics from my 10 year High School Reunion last Saturday. The first is of Eli (Holly and Joel's boy) riding a girl bike (he he). The second is of Sara (Jamie and Joe's young'un) sitting next to Lily and sharing their lunch. It was so sweet, Sara kept handing Lily chips. What a sweet girl. They're gonna be bestest friends!

Eli just loved this bike!

Notice that Lily is dumping over Jamie's plate. Sorry Jamie!

Lillou Handmade

2009-09-03T03:52:00.000-07:00

Well, I finally got my Etsy store up and running! I'm so excited about it. I only have a few items for sale right now, but I have so many more dress and bags already made. I just have to decide which ones to sell. I'm also keeping some back because I'm going to get a booth at a consignment event this month. Please spread the word and hit up my shop! You can find a link and a gallery from my shop over to the right side of the blog.

The Bees Knees

2009-08-08T17:14:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I was supposed to meet a friend today to pick up some fabric for a bag she wants me to make. We couldn't meet up, so she just dropped it off in the building where we work. Well, she called me afterward to tell me that there was a large swarm of bees in the driveway that followed her up to the building. When we got there (using another driveway) they weren't swarming anymore, but we could see a lot of presumably dead bees on the ground with a few flying just above them. When we looked up, we saw this huge group of them in the tree. I don't know where these little darlings came from, since the daycare was just open and full of people yesterday. I mean, people park directly under this low hanging branch.

We contacted our boss and hopefully this little issue will be taken care of before Monday, but could you imagine if it wasn't! I would feel really sorry for the ladies that open up the daycare at 6:00 in the morning. They probably wouldn't even see them coming!

Much Improved

2009-07-19T11:49:00.001-07:00

Before

Well, I decided to use this highchair for Lily's party cuz it will look cuter in all the "messy baby birthday cake" photos. It was mine when I was a baby. But it's kinda plain and uncomfortable and of course not cute enough for Lily Bug. This is one of the projects I was able to complete while Josh and I had a day all too ourselves. Lily stayed with her MawMaw and PawPaw so that Daddy and I could clean the house and get ready for her party next Saturday. I wish the red fabric was a deeper red....it's a little too orangey for me, but it's the best thing I could find at Wal-Mart (I was in a rush). Hopefully this doesn't get completely ruined when cake a icing get smushed into it.

After

Project Pinata

2009-07-19T11:07:00.000-07:00

Ok, so ever since I decided that Lily's first birthday party would have a ladybug theme, I've been debating over whether or not I would get a pinata. I wanted one, but I could find a cute one and I didn't want to spend an arm and a leg for one. I kept thinking "maybe I'll just make one". But I really didn't want to get into the whole papier mache thing (we ended up doing papier mache all week with the kids at work anyway, but that's a whole other story). Finally, I spotted a "soccer ball" pinata at Target. I use the words "soccer ball" very loosely because it wasn't even a good soccer ball. Someone at work thought it was a eyeball. Anyway, I ripped all the white and black tissue paper off and got to work on it. Unfortunately, like so many of my projects I don't realize it's going to turn out cute, so I don't take a before picture. The first picture is after I ripped all the black and white off.

Then I covered it with red and black tissue paper to give me a background and to help me see what parts I wanted to be which color.

Finally, I cut strips of each color and fringed them. I layered them around the pinata, starting from the bottom. I really wasn't as difficult or time consuming as I thought it would be. I think it turned out super cute and it doesn't look too homemade at all. I'm really pleased with it. It's gonna be a shame to see her get smashed up.....especially since I gave her a name (big mistake). Can you guess her name? Maybe if someone guesses right, they'll get a prize! (hint: her name begins with the letter B)

My Baby Sister

2009-07-05T06:44:00.000-07:00

I was thinking about my little sister last night and I just wanted to take a minute to express how proud I am of her. She is a very strong and courageous woman. She is determined and won't let anything stand in her way. She has been through a lot in the past few years (not as much as some, but still more than I could handle). She married a Marine who was later deployed to Iraq (twice) and moved away from her family and friends to start a family. While this might not seem like such a hardship to some, I know I couldn't do it. She is one of the sweetest, kindest, most thoughtful people I know and is always there when anyone needs her. She'd do anything for anyone. She is an awesome mom to a beautiful little boy. Gabby also recently lost about 40 pounds and looks amazing! (way to go, Slick!) I just want her to know that although she is going through a tough time right now, God has a plan for her and things will get better. We never know what's in store for us, but it is always for the best. Here's a little quote I heard once that helps me feel better...."it's always ok in the end and if it's not ok, it's not the end." We love you, Gabby and things are gonna be fine!

Been Busy

2009-06-25T03:43:00.000-07:00

I've been so busy doing things to blog about that I haven't been able to blog about them. The main thing that has been keeping me busy was preparing for Josh's 30th Birthday Party. With that out of the way I can start focusing on Lily's 1st Birthday Party at the end of next month. Here's a pic that my sister in law took of us at the party. We had a great time at the party and I'm so glad everyone came to share such a special day with us!

Awkward Family Photos

2009-05-23T17:07:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I know I already texted a few people about this website, but I want to share it with anyone else who might be reading my blog because it is so hilarious. Go here to see some "awkward family photos" but wait until you have some time on your hands because you won't be able to stop. Come back and tell me which one is your favorite.

Tubes!

2009-05-23T03:37:00.000-07:00

Well, the Pediatrician finally referred Lily to an ENT to put tubes in her ears. The "surgery" isn't scheculed until June 4....I wish is was sooner, but that's all they had. Before I had her, I always heard about so many kids getting tubes and I thought I would be more concerned if one of my children ever had to get them. Well, I'm not really worried about the "surgery", not yet anyway. The thing that I'm concerned about right now is that she can't eat anything after midnight before the surgery, which means no breakfast. So, I'm imagining a screaming baby all the way from St. Amant to Baton Rouge (at least 30 minutes). Hopefully we'll leave early enough that she will just sleep, but I don't know. From the way the doctor described the procedure it seems quick and easy. The don't actually use general anesthesia to put them to sleep, they just use gas. They make a 2mm incision in the ear drum, insert the tube and they are done in about five minutes. She has to stay there for about 45 minutes in recovery, then we can go home. I have to stay home with her the rest of the day, but she can go back to daycare the next day. He also explained to us that the tubes don't prevent ear infections, they just release the pressure and make it easier for fluid to drain. Hey, from my point of view, anything that helps my baby suffer less is awesome. I will be glad to finally get these in. It seems like about 2 or 3 months of solid ear infections. We can't get rid of them!

Real Medical explanation I found on a website:

Ventilating (tympanostomy) tubes are tiny, hollow plastic or metal tubes that are placed in the eardrum through a small slit. These tubes balance the pressure in the environment with that in the middle ear. Doctors recommend ventilating tubes for children who have had recurring ear infections (acute otitis media) or recurring or persistent collections of fluid in their middle ears (chronic secretory otitis media).
Placement of ventilating tubes is a common surgical procedure, done in a hospital or doctor's office. After the procedure, children usually go home within a few hours. The tubes usually fall out on their own after a few months, although some types stay in for a year or more.

If you are really curious and want to learn more about it, go to http://entdoc-crc.com/FAQs.htm

Problems and Solutions

2009-04-26T12:26:00.000-07:00

At the moment, I'm trying to coordinate my class' Pre-K Graduation. The Caps and Gowns we are using are at least 10 years old I'd say, so the have a few problems. The main problem is that only about 5 of the caps have tassels. I went to a few stores to try and buy some, but I couldn't find them anywhere. I could order them, but I had to have them for pictures last Wednesday and there wasn't time. I figured what the heck, I'll just make something. This was my solution.....What do you think? I think it looks cute and the Photographers' assistant even complimented them on Wednesday, not knowing I had made them. Yay me!

Lazy Blogger Continued

2009-04-26T12:14:00.000-07:00

This is a continuation of the post below, so go read it first!

As I was saying, Lily won't get off her butt to help her Daddy clean up around the yard. All she wants to do is swing!

The other day, I walked into the living room and caught Lily watching "The Hills" of all things. She was so caught up in all the fake drama. I just hope she doesn't start saying the word "like" fifty times in one sentence. (I've gotta admit, if I'm channel flipping and I come across this idiotic show, I do stop and watch it....I guess it is a guilty pleasure, but I am so ashamed!) What's your guilty pleasure? Come on, you can admit it here.

Last weekend, we were very cultured and went to see on Off Broadway play. When I say "Off Broadway", I mean WAY off.....like Donaldsonville! Alexis and Ashlyn were in their school's production of Annie. Alexis actually had a speaking part as one of the orphans. I was really surprised at how good it was. I was enjoying it, but unfortunately someone in the audience decided to stink up the joint! Being a school gym, there really wasn't anywhere to change her, so we just headed for the car. The play was about half over by then, but I really hated to miss the end. I've always loved Annie! Lily even got her picture taken with one of the orphans, her cuz Ashlyn!

Lazy Blogger

2009-04-26T11:44:00.000-07:00

OK, OK, I'm finally getting around to posting some things I've been meaning to post for a long time. I take pictures all the time with the intent to do a post about them, but it takes so long sometimes to upload pictures that I just put it off over and over. So, without further ado, here are some pics and very short recaps of what's going on with us.

First, here's the diaper bag I made for Stacy. I'm pretty proud of it because it's the first time I attempted to make a flap thingy that goes over the bag. It really wasn't hard at all, but I wasn't sure if I could do it. I think the bag turned out cute and Stacy seemed to like it. If you guys know anyone who needs a bag made, give them my info! I'm planning on getting a booth in the fall at the Rhea Lana Children's Consignment Event. I can't wait.

These next pics are of Lily and Lyndon at the Spray Park here in Gonzales. I wasn't sure if Lily was going to like it or not, but after a few minutes, she started to warm up to it and started playing in the water. Lyndon seemed more hesitant this time than he was when we took him last summer. This time he DID get a large bucket of water dumped on his head though. That might've had something to do with his hesitation.

Recently, Josh and I have begun to work on the landscaping around the front of our house. The previous owners planted some ivy and ferns that are completely taking over the front of the house. We have tried to keep them in check, but they are just too overwhelming, so we decided to just get rid of everything and start over. Josh has been doing most of the work, since Lily won't get off her butt and help!

Scooter

2009-04-19T06:51:00.000-07:00

Thanks everyone for the tips and words of encouragement about getting Lily to crawl. I know they say that not all babies crawl, but I don't know any who didn't, ya know? Anyway, I just wanted you guys to know that I think she's on the verge of crawling afterall. This weekend she's been getting all over the livingroom floor. She's pushing herself with her feet (still not up on her knees, but who cares) and spinning around like crazy! I guess now is a good time to try to baby-proof, right? ha ha. Take care everyone and I promise I'll post more pics soon, but for now enjoy her Easter pic.

Lily Lately

2009-04-08T17:17:00.000-07:00

Lately, we've learned that Lily LOVES pickles...almost as much as I do. The first time I let her taste one (cruelly trying to get one of those puckered faces out of her) she loved it and got mad when I took it away. What can I say, like mother, like daughter.

Lily also loves pancakes. On my birthday last month, Josh made pancakes for breakfast. He thought it would be cute to make some tiny pancakes for Lily. She tore them up!

We have also discovered that Lily likes to play in laundry baskets. Go figure. How many of us didn't do that as a child.

Oh, by the way, the seperation anxiety, I only want Mommy phase has kicked in! As I'm sure most of you know, it's pretty sweet at first and makes you feel like a real Mommy, but it really stinks when you have to get away from them.

Anybody got any tips for getting miss lazy bones to crawl? She lays on her belly and "swims" but doesn't get on her knees and crawl. She gets all of the room by rolling around and arching her back. Not that I'm anxious for her to be getting into everything, but I don't want her to be laying around all her life...lol. She's 8 months old now, should I even worry about it at all?

Happy Easter Everyone!

Happy Birthday, Lyndon

2009-03-29T05:28:00.000-07:00

Happy Second Birthday, Lyndon!

It certainly doesn't seem like two years ago that you were born. Our lives haven't been the same since. We miss you so much, little man! Uncle Josh and I talk about you all the time. We can't wait to see you. Just watch out for zebras! We hope you're having a GREAT day!

Just think Gabby, the Terrible Twos are JUST BEGINNING!!!

My Only Sunshine

2009-03-22T08:22:00.000-07:00

Well, a while back Lily was given a Christening dress. A friend of my Mother-in-law saw it at the church thrift store she works at. It was new with the tags still on it and she was thoughtful enough to save it for Lily. At the time it was too big for her and not quite our style, but she suggested I keep it anyway and just cut it off for Lily to wear this summer. Well, I don't have much (*any*) experience altering clothes, but I figured this would be a good project to start off with (it was free...lol). Unfortunately, I didn't think to take a "before" picture until after I started cutting things off, so in the picture below, I tried to just lay the sleeves and the bottom ruffle where they originally were. Basically, I removed the sleeves, shortened it, and dyed it orange. It's a little longer than I meant for it to be, but my model wouldn't really cooperate. I think it came out pretty cute, especially for a first attempt at alteration. What do you think??? What creative project are you most proud of? What would you like to be good at?

My Auntie Loves Me

2009-03-18T15:37:00.000-07:00

T-Gabby sent Lily this adoreable onesie that says "My Auntie Loves Me". She couldn't wait to wear it. She literally jerked it out of my hand when I pulled it out of the box Gabby and Lyndon sent. Thanks again Gabby!

Smashed Twin Fingers!

2009-03-04T18:30:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I brought my class inside for lunch this morning. They all lined by the girls' and boys' bathrooms respectively to wash their hands. The Director and I were just about to start serving the food onto their plates when Carter starts screaming over by the bathrooms. We both get over there quickly, just thinking that his shirt is closed in the door and he's just freaking out. Well, come to find out, the poor boy's fingers are closed in the door. He's screaming louder and louder and I go to open the door only to find out that the person inside has locked it. So, we're frantically trying to get the person inside to open it while searching for something to undo the lock from the outside. You have to stick a skinny paintbrush handle or a straightened paperclip through a little hole in the doorknob to pop the lock: none of which was readily available. Finally the person opens the door and it was his twin brother Hunter. All of that took place in just a few seconds.....don't worry, we didn't leave the poor boy stuck in the door for long.
Poor Carter has three smashed up fingers. They weren't seriously damaged, thankfully. The skin was pulled back on one of them pretty bad though. His aunt came and got him pretty quickly though. I don't know which boy I felt worse for though. Hunter was so upset that Carter was crying so much and that HE had caused it. He was almost in tears. He kept apologizing to Carter and trying to make him laugh. Carter knew it was an accident, but that didn't make him stop crying.
That whole incident reminded me of our 10th grade ACT attempt. Jamie and Holly arrived at the school to take the test and upon exiting the vehicle Jamie promptly slapped her finger in the car door. Instead of opening the door, she just ripped her finger out of it; thus ripping the skin off her finger. It was pretty gnarly looking. Perhaps it was just a ploy to get both of them out of taking the test, because they were both pretty anxious about it. But, what is it about you twins slamming fingers in doors??

Happy Mardi Gras!

2009-02-24T09:27:00.000-08:00

Well, here are some pics from our most recent visit home. We got to hang out with the fam. and Lily finally got to meet her cousin Connor. The are almost the exact same size (he might be a little bigger) which is amazing considering he was a micro-premie and was born at only 25 weeks. I also included a pic of Gabby's son, Lyndon. He is getting so big. He will be 2 at the end of March. He loves his uncle Josh! Oh, by the way, Lily says Happy Mardi Gras to all her peeps!

NuNu

2009-02-05T05:04:00.001-08:00

Please pray for my NuNu today. She was diagnosed with an agressive form of cancer last fall and she's been putting up a strong fight, but she has some sort of infection in her lungs and isn't doing to well right now. We are packing up as we speak to head up to Natchez.

Groundhog Day!

2009-02-01T19:03:00.001-08:00

HAPPY GROUNDHOG DAY!!! Check out these cupcakes I made for my class. They turned out cuter than I thought they would and they were super easy. I hope the kids like them.

You know, seeing Stacy's adorable bows for Afton has gotten me itching to start making stuff again. Ever since Lily-girl came along it's been hard. Not just because I have to take care of her, but mostly because my crafting/sewing room has become her nursery. So, this weekend I insisted that Josh and I start working on rehabilitation our out of control office. We bought a new bookshelf and moved around some workout equipment. It's nowhere near done but I can see a light at the end of the tunnel and hopefully soon there will be room to spread my stuff out again and get to work. I'm even planning on getting him to make me a rack for all of my ribbon (if/when that happens I'll post pics of it for sure). But, does anyone have any tips for getting rid of clutter?? Both Josh and I are major pack-rats and sometimes I feel like the clutter is taking over our lives. We try to battle it and sometimes we make some headway, then just when we think we've got it beat, it starts creeping back in on us again. Anyway, hopefully soon I can post some pics of the cleaned up, organized office/crafting room. Wish us luck!

Shout-Out to aunties far away!

2009-02-01T18:36:00.000-08:00

I just wanted to send a shout out to my dear friend Clara-belle and my beloved sister Gabby. I miss them both and wish they both lived closer. Clare ran away to Colorado (yeah, I'm jealous) and my little sis, Gabby moved to Illinois because her husband got transferred (USMC).

Clare, I've been meaning to post these two pics to thank you for all the things you gave us for Lily. She's been wearing some of the hand-me-downs and loves the "jumperoo" as we call it. She is especially fond of her alligator though. She can't get enough of it.

Gabby, we miss you and we can't wait until you guys come visit. Hurry HOME!!!

2009-01-11T18:42:00.000-08:00

Today, we went for a portrait session with Josh's brothers and their families. It's a surprise for Josh's parents. SSSHH, don't tell them. Next Sunday is their 40th wedding anniversary. It was really nice to all get together and we finally got some real portraits of lil Lily. I think we may schedule some more soon though so we can get a bunch of just her. The top picture is of Lily and her cousins on Josh's side (Ashlyn, Alexis, Lily, and Joseph)

2009-01-03T03:58:00.000-08:00

Here's my little family......all tuckered out.

A few FIRSTS!

2008-12-23T19:02:00.001-08:00

This post is a little behind and I have no real excuse for that, so just deal with it!! The Monday after we came back from Vidalia for Thanksgiving, Lily decided that she would start rolling over. That morning, I found her in her crib on her tummy when I had placed her on her back the night before. Later that evening, she was lying on the floor playing with her toys and decided that she would roll from her tummy to her back. So, she learned to roll both directions in one day. Or maybe she was just saving up that trick to spring them both on me at the same time.

The next picture is of Lily and her "first boyfriend". Just kidding. This is a boy in her class, Micah. They are JUST friends, she tells me.

This is a picture of Miss Lily trying something other than milk and cereal for the first time. She likes squash. We have since found out that she isn't a big fan of carrots. Enjoy the pics and we'll post more after Christmas. Everyone take care and try not to eat too much yumminess! Merry Christmas!

Snow Day!

2008-12-11T13:02:00.000-08:00

Ok, so I was about to leave for work this morning and I had no clue that it was snowing. Josh and I didn't know until his brother called and told us. We went outside and lo and behold it was pouring down from the heavens. I along with most south Louisianians have never seen snow of this magnitude in our own back yards. What a special treat. I only wish that I had children old enough to play in it. Hopefully one day it will snow again so Lily and I can play in it together. By the way, sorry I've been neglecting my blog......it's either neglect the blog or neglect the baby. Did I make the right choice?? ha ha Enjoy the pictures!

2008-10-23T18:49:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures of our Lily baby smiling. She's usually a happy girl. It's so nice to see those smiles now and know when she's happy. The outfit in the second picture was the first 3-6 month outfit I put on her. I've been putting off switching her to that size because I just thought they looked so big, but she was really outgrowing her 0-3 month ones, so it was time. I was a bit surprised and saddened when the "big" clothes fit her just fine. I can't imagine how I'll feel when she reaches some actually milestone when a new clothing size made me feel like she's growing too fast.

2008-10-23T04:52:00.001-07:00

Jamie tagged me to post the fourth picture from the fourth folder on my computer, so here it is.

This is Josh at some apartment industry conference before we ever even met. It was taken when he lived in Houston, hence the Texans jersey.

Cute Fall Pics

2008-10-19T15:25:00.000-07:00

Sorry, I don't have time at the moment to do an actual post. We just got back from Ferriday this afternoon and we took a few cute pics of little miss Lily so I thought I'd post them. She obviously wasn't too happy about being put on the ground with the pumpkins. Enjoy!

2008-10-04T04:42:00.000-07:00

I've been tagged

I am: really tired....just finished a full day of work with a three hour class afterward.
I think: i have the best husband in the world...he takes care of Lily so I can go to class every week (he even bathes her by himself!)
I want: to sleep for a million hours.
I miss: my college years, many friends, and lazy Saturdays before Lily came along.
I fear: I won't be the kind of wife and mom that my family deserves
I feel: congested *sniff sniff*
I hear: the TV in the next room.
I smell: nothing because of the congestion.
I crave: Raising Cane's
I cry: when I feel helpless, over whelmed, or just sad.
I usually: sit quietly in the corner at gatherings
I search: for my shoes every morning.
I wonder: if Lily will sleep well tonight.
I regret: not keeping in touch with my friends better.
I wish: I didn't have to worry about money.
I love: my awesome family.
I care: about what others think of me.
I always: tell my husband I love him before going to sleep, leaving the house and getting off the phone.
I worry: less about work stuuf than I did before Lily.
I am not: good at small talk
I remember: the good times
I believe: in doing unto others as you would have them do unto you.
I don't always: do what I know should be done.
I argue: rarely
I write: in print usually because I teach pre-K and have to model correct form for my kids.
I win: games against preschoolers (unfair advantage???)
I lose: poorly
I listen: to silly made-up stories everyday.
I don't understand: why some parents don't give their kids the time of day.
I can usually be found: at work or at home with my family.
I need: constant reassurance.
.I forget: plenty
I am happy:I found such a great man and God gave us a beautiful baby.

First Pigtails

2008-10-02T07:33:00.001-07:00

Well, I'm at home with a sick little baby girl, so I've had time to catch up on some blog reading. Since Lily is nowhere near the point of having her first pigtails, and I didn't want to be outdone by Jezebel's adorable pigtails courtesy of Momma Clare, I decided to post a picture of my nephew Lyndon's first pigtails. Back in June when we were all in Shreveport for Connor's birth, Lyndon's hair was getting pretty long in the back because Gabby was waiting on his Daddy to go get it cut. I decided that since his Dad wasn't around, now would be the perfect time to "play with his hair". You can't see them too well in the picture, but they were some cute pigtails. He was surprisingly cooperative and didn't even try to pull them down. I think he just liked all the attention he was getting from his Mom, Aunt Erika, and Nonna for having such a cute new do. Anyway, enjoy the pics and don't tell his dad. I'm sure he'd kill us!!

Our Weekend

2008-10-01T11:07:00.000-07:00

This weekend, Lily met a new friend, Luke, at his first birthday party. It was a super fun and very cute party. Luke is so adorable! Josh used to work with Luke's dad, Javier, at the Casino. He and his wife, Katie, are super nice. Javi's family is Mexican, so Luke's grandmother got a pinata and put a few Mexican candies in it. One of them was this chile watermelon sucker. It looked like they took an innocent sucker and rolled it in all sorts of spices. I tasted one, and Josh ate almost half of one. It was definitely different. After the party, we went over to Scott and Vicky's and watched the LSU game with Vicky and the girls. We finally had a chance to get a couple of pictures of the three of us as a family. Notice the matchy clothes at the party and the LSU colors for the game? I was so surprised that Josh went along with that. He will usually change clothes if I happen to put on something that matches him.

Another big event happened this weekend! Little Connor FINALLY got to come home!! I haven't gotten to talk to Victoria much since then, but I know the are doing well. When I tried to call her, she was sleeping. I'm trying not to bother her, but I also don't want her to think that I'm not thinking of her. Anyway, we're all glad that Connor is finally home where he belongs.

skeeters

2008-09-30T16:05:00.000-07:00

Is anyone else having a severe problem with mosquitos or is it just us out here in the boonies?? We had to cover Lily's crib with a mosquito net because the poor thing got ate up one night. Her whole little face and both hands were covered in little bites. They had a feast on my sweet little baby. I felt like such a bad mommy when we went places last weekend, because she was covered in bites. What could I have done though? I didn't know they had snuck into our house and were attacking her while we slept. At least she couldn't scratch them, so they didn't really seemm to bother her much. Lily likes to pretend that she is a missionary in Africa, sleeping under a malaria tent! Anyway, the bites are better now, but she got shots this week and just caught a nasty cold. Poor thing.

Connor Update

2008-09-24T17:27:00.001-07:00

Well, according to Jason and Victoria's blog http://butlernewsblog.blogspot.com, Mr. Connor may be coming home as soon as this weekend! How exciting. There's still a long road ahead though. They won't be able to really take him anywhere for many more months. He can't go to church, the store, or even family functions because it'll be so easy for him to get very very sick. Be that as it may though, we're all gonna be glad to know that he's safe at home instead of in the hospital still. I know Lily and Lyndon can't wait to play with their cousin.

Four Generations

2008-09-11T16:59:00.000-07:00

As I mentioned in the previous post, the Saturday before Gustav hit, we were in Vidalia and went to take some family portraits. Four generations of ladies. My NuNu, my Mom (Lily's Nonna), Me, and Lily. Even though Lily was getting hungry and a little fussy, I think the pics turned out pretty well.

Our Gustav "Adventure"

2008-09-11T16:40:00.000-07:00

Connor Lee Butler
Lyndon peaking under Lily's shirt (ha ha)
Lily with her Aunt Tori
Lily with Aunt Tori and Aunt Gabby

First of all, we don't have too much to complain about after enduring the wrath of Gustav. We went to Vidalia Friday afternoon, had a lovely weekend, took some family portraits, and decided to come back to town on Sunday afternoon (against my families wishes). Josh wanted to go stay at his parents' house in Donaldsonville during the storm so that we would be closer to our house in case there was any damage and we needed to go salvage our belongings. I agreed with him and I think we both just wanted to see exactly what happened during the storm. Foolish, right? Well anyway, we stayed at his parents' house Sunday and Monday night. Of course Monday night there was no power and we were miserable. So we decided to get up early (who could sleep anyway) on Tuesday morning and go check on our house. I meanwhile decided that I was going back to Vidalia with or without my beloved husband. I didn't want Lily (or myself for that matter) to be suffering in the heat indefinitely. Thankfully Josh decided to come with me. We were very lucky and had absolutely no damage to our house. Some big limbs down in the yard like everyone else, but that was the extent. So we spent the rest of the week in Vidalia. One of the few good things that came from the whole ordeal was that my youngest sister, Gabby, and her son Lyndon were in town from Illinois so we got to spend time with them. On Thursday, Gabby, Lily, and I went to Shreveport to visit our middle sister, Victoria and her son Connor. Victoria hadn't gotten to meet little Lily yet because Connor is still in the NICU. He was born at 25 weeks back on June17. He was only 2lbs 13oz at birth but is now up to a whopping 5lbs 9oz. He should be coming home very soon and we can't wait. They are both supposed to come and visit us at the beginning of October if everything goes as planned.

Josh had an awesome time while we were in Vidalia because he got to play with Lyndon almost the whole time. I think they are each other's favorite playmates.

Anyway, when our neighbor called us on Thursday and said our power was back on, we decided to head on back this way.

Family Ties

2008-08-29T08:30:00.000-07:00

Well, we're off to Vidalia for the weekend. We had planned this trip in advance, but now I'm glad we're going to be well out of the way of Gustav should he decide to come this way. Our house is all boarded up and I'm loading up the car. But our trip up there has me thinking about family and how change is inevitable whether is positive or negative. And sometimes even though it may seem negative at the time, everything turns out better in the end. I've also been thinking about the little family that Josh and I are creating together. We made Lily with half of my genes and half of his, but somehow, I have yet to see any of Josh in her. I'm sure it'll come out sooner or later. I'm sure she'll have his devilish sense of humor or his kind and generous nature. Check out these pictures though and see which one of us she resembles the most. (top to bottom: Me, Josh, Lily). Now that I look at all of the pictures together, I don't know anymore. Maybe she is OURS and not just mine. Or maybe Josh and I just looked very much alike as babies. Who knows. Anyway, I hope everyone stays safe and good luck weathering out this storm!

Fur Baby

2008-08-28T19:00:00.000-07:00

This post is dedicated to our "first born". Our little fur baby, Buck. We've had him for about two years now. He just had a birthday last month and he's three-years-old. While I was pregnant, we really worried about how Buck was going to handle having to share his Mommy and Daddy with this new little stranger. I'm happy to report that he seems to be handling it pretty well so far. He does get a little jealous when his Daddy isn't paying him attention or when we have company over and they don't notice him, but other than that he is adjusting surprisingly well.

Although he can be a little wild at times, he's such a sweet doggie and we can't imagine our lives without him. As evidenced by the pics, he even puts up with the silly things I do to him. Thanks for being such a good boy, Buck!!

Everybody Loves Lily!

2008-08-27T12:34:00.000-07:00

Lily attended her first birthday party this weekend! Her cousin Alexis had a party on Sunday afternoon, despite the dreary weather (thanks to Tropical Storm Faye). It's nice to let other people get to hold her and love on her for a little while. We had a great time and the kids seemed to have fun too. Lily even got to sport her outfit that her Daddy bought for her. She looked like a big girl in her denim shorts and cute little yellow top.

The first picture is of Lily with her cousins Ashlyn and Alexis, then there's Lily with her MawMaw and PawPaw. The last two aren't from the birthday party. They are from when my Aunt and my cousins came to visit a couple of weeks ago. There's Taylor holding Lily and Cameron and Callie with Lily. (All other family members who've come to visit, don't worry, I have more pictures coming, these are just the only one's I have on the computer right now)

And for those of you who have asked, things are going much better with Lily and I at home. We've finally settled into a nice little schedule, just in time for me to go back to work in a couple of weeks. But at least I can really enjoy this last little bit of uninterrupted time we have together.

Why is it so hard??

2008-08-19T07:21:00.001-07:00

Why didn't anyone tell me that breastfeeding was so difficult. I know it's going to get better, but it can be so frustrating at times. All those pregnancy books make it sound so easy. I mean, I know my situation could be a lot worse. She latches on well, I'm not sore anymore, and she usually eats well. But I never know if she is eating enough. Then sometimes she eats too much or too fast and throws up all over both of us. I don't mean spit-up, she projectile vomits the entire contents of her stomach onto both of us. Then I get to start feeding her all over again because her little stomach is now empty and she's still hungry. Sometimes I think I've fed her enough and I can't get her to wake up enough to eat anymore, so I put her to bed. Only to be awakened twenty minutes later because she's still hungry. Somebody please tell me it will get better......SOON!

Welcome to the World Lily Michelle!!

2008-08-13T11:04:00.000-07:00

Well, after about 18 hours of labor, our little Lily is finally here. She was born on Monday, July 28 at 12:06 pm. She weighed 8 lbs and 8.8 oz. and was 21" long.

Maiden Voyage

2008-07-22T13:01:00.000-07:00

Hi Everyone!

Well, I'm going to see how this whole blogging thing goes. We're currently counting down the days until my due date (Aug. 3) even though I'm afraid little Lily isn't going to come by then. Nothing much to do besides that right now. Hopefully when I go to the doctor on Thursday she will have some encouraging news about our progress, but who knows, right? The two pictures below are of Lily's room and some good ultrasound shots of her cute little face. Josh and I pretty much did all of the room ourselves although Mr. Donald, Josh's dad, did help alot with the construction aspect of putting the room back together after Josh did the demolition. We just can't wait to actually have a little person sleeping in that room across the hall.