I know this is quite premature, but I can't contain it.
WE ARE HAVING ANOTHER BABY!
Lord Willing.
Cohen is the cutest thing. I told him we were having a baby and it was going to grow in my tummy like Sutton did. He asked if I swollowed the baby. Is that how he got there? I told him God put the baby in my tummy. I will avoid that topic for a few more years:)
I showed him a picture of what the baby looks like at this gestation on the internet. He was so excited about it. He went to play then came back and asked to see the baby pictures again. He is going to be such a good big brother.
I want to truly savor each moment of this pregnancy. I do not think I will convince Chad to have another child after this, even though I would love 4 children. (I think 4 is the "magic number" of kids in my mind.)
I really enjoy being pregnant.
*****This post is from July 23, 2014. I am NOT pregnant again. I just found this on my blog as "unposted" and wanted to post it*******
Friday, May 20, 2016
We are SO proud of our Cohen Michael
Cohen just finished kindergarten two days ago.
This year was everything I could have hoped for for him. He was so brave that first day walking into school by himself with his big ol' backpack. Then he and Sutton begged me to let him ride the bus. And when I gave in, I cried as he and Sutton stood at the bus stop like two brave, excited boys.
His teacher Ms Hasselbring has been a K teacher for 26 years (or more. I can't recall) and has such a love for her "chilies" as she calls them. I knew from the moment I met her that my sweet baby boy would be loved and cared for each day when he walked into Crockett Elementary.
I know this has been said many times to me, but my how kindergarten has changed since I was a kid.
Cohen knows SO much! He knows what I didn't know until 3rd grade. No joke!
He knows how to read books! Like real books! With big words!
He knows how to add big numbers, in his head! Tonight's math problem at the dinner table from him was, "What's 1000 + 1000+ 1000 + 100 + 50?" And when we acted like we didn't know the answer, he blurted it out in no time.
He knows who our 1st, 7th, 11th, and 14th presidents were and some facts about them too.
I cried big tears Wednesday when I picked him up from his last day of kindergarten. The kind of tears that burn your eyes and make them red for hours. My shoulders shook as I cried, my nose and my mascara ran down my face... I cried because I am so proud of him. I cried because he is one year closer to leaving my nest and leaving the shadow of my wings. I cried because I feel so lucky and blessed to be his and his brothers' momma.
And Sutton...
He is the smartest boy. His teachers at preschool always tell me what a natural leader he is. He is a friend to everyone, and the girls love him. He tells me that the girls always chase him on the playground. He knows far more than Cohen knew at age 4. I think it's because his big brother encourages his learning of the material that his wonderful teachers teach him. Sutton knows several sight words. He also knows things like what "nocturnal" and "diurnal" mean! Harpeth Hills Preschool is such a blessing to so many children and families.
And when I was crying the ugly cry on Wednesday, my sweet Sutton came and sat in my lap and said, "Mommy, even when I am 7, 8, and 16, 17, 18, and 19 I will still let you oot me. And when I am so big, I will oot you." Then I cried even more.
Sutton is my biggest fan. He truly is enamored by me and has been since the day he was born.
Our little Jack Briggs,
He is 14 months and has such a spunky attitude. A few weeks ago Cohen picked him up and moved him away from the tv. He laid down on the floor with his arms and legs outstretched and cried. Then he got up after a few seconds and gave Cohen the stink-eye before he walked away. He is good at doing the full-body throw down fit when he doesn't get what he wants. He also still nurses 2-4 times a day for 15-30 minutes each time. I know he's getting older, but I don't care. He's probably my last child and besides, he's tiny. Like 18 pounds tiny. Like 3rd percentile tiny. So he's like nursing a 6 month old. His blue eyes and blond hair are as unique to our family of brown hair, brown eyed people as his personality. I think this boy is going to be more similar to Sutton in his personality.
Oh, but really, he's not a typical 3rd child. He has almost gotten me kicked out of my obsession- Beatbox:( There have been 2 times that he has cried so much that I've been embarrassed by his behavior. I mean, does this kid not realize that Beatbox keeps me sane and healthy? He cries most times I leave him with the childcare workers. He's not typically a fussy kid, but he makes up for it the 2-3xs a week I go to Beatbox.
Attitude and all, these boys melt my heart. There are days that are very difficult and trying. There are days that I yell more than I want to admit. There are days that I fall to my knees and cry out to God for help and patience and guidance. But then there are those moments that they hug me, kiss me, tell me they love me, and make me laugh uncontrollably that I feel like my heart will explode from the love I have for these boys and their daddy.
God is good, all the time!
This year was everything I could have hoped for for him. He was so brave that first day walking into school by himself with his big ol' backpack. Then he and Sutton begged me to let him ride the bus. And when I gave in, I cried as he and Sutton stood at the bus stop like two brave, excited boys.
His teacher Ms Hasselbring has been a K teacher for 26 years (or more. I can't recall) and has such a love for her "chilies" as she calls them. I knew from the moment I met her that my sweet baby boy would be loved and cared for each day when he walked into Crockett Elementary.
I know this has been said many times to me, but my how kindergarten has changed since I was a kid.
Cohen knows SO much! He knows what I didn't know until 3rd grade. No joke!
He knows how to read books! Like real books! With big words!
He knows how to add big numbers, in his head! Tonight's math problem at the dinner table from him was, "What's 1000 + 1000+ 1000 + 100 + 50?" And when we acted like we didn't know the answer, he blurted it out in no time.
He knows who our 1st, 7th, 11th, and 14th presidents were and some facts about them too.
I cried big tears Wednesday when I picked him up from his last day of kindergarten. The kind of tears that burn your eyes and make them red for hours. My shoulders shook as I cried, my nose and my mascara ran down my face... I cried because I am so proud of him. I cried because he is one year closer to leaving my nest and leaving the shadow of my wings. I cried because I feel so lucky and blessed to be his and his brothers' momma.
And Sutton...
He is the smartest boy. His teachers at preschool always tell me what a natural leader he is. He is a friend to everyone, and the girls love him. He tells me that the girls always chase him on the playground. He knows far more than Cohen knew at age 4. I think it's because his big brother encourages his learning of the material that his wonderful teachers teach him. Sutton knows several sight words. He also knows things like what "nocturnal" and "diurnal" mean! Harpeth Hills Preschool is such a blessing to so many children and families.
And when I was crying the ugly cry on Wednesday, my sweet Sutton came and sat in my lap and said, "Mommy, even when I am 7, 8, and 16, 17, 18, and 19 I will still let you oot me. And when I am so big, I will oot you." Then I cried even more.
Sutton is my biggest fan. He truly is enamored by me and has been since the day he was born.
Our little Jack Briggs,
He is 14 months and has such a spunky attitude. A few weeks ago Cohen picked him up and moved him away from the tv. He laid down on the floor with his arms and legs outstretched and cried. Then he got up after a few seconds and gave Cohen the stink-eye before he walked away. He is good at doing the full-body throw down fit when he doesn't get what he wants. He also still nurses 2-4 times a day for 15-30 minutes each time. I know he's getting older, but I don't care. He's probably my last child and besides, he's tiny. Like 18 pounds tiny. Like 3rd percentile tiny. So he's like nursing a 6 month old. His blue eyes and blond hair are as unique to our family of brown hair, brown eyed people as his personality. I think this boy is going to be more similar to Sutton in his personality.
Oh, but really, he's not a typical 3rd child. He has almost gotten me kicked out of my obsession- Beatbox:( There have been 2 times that he has cried so much that I've been embarrassed by his behavior. I mean, does this kid not realize that Beatbox keeps me sane and healthy? He cries most times I leave him with the childcare workers. He's not typically a fussy kid, but he makes up for it the 2-3xs a week I go to Beatbox.
Attitude and all, these boys melt my heart. There are days that are very difficult and trying. There are days that I yell more than I want to admit. There are days that I fall to my knees and cry out to God for help and patience and guidance. But then there are those moments that they hug me, kiss me, tell me they love me, and make me laugh uncontrollably that I feel like my heart will explode from the love I have for these boys and their daddy.
God is good, all the time!
Thursday, July 17, 2014
Its Been Way Too Long..
I have been trying to be Supermom for way too long.
I work at least 36 hours a week, but most often more than that.
I have an obsession with keeping my house clean, laundry put away, dishes clean and beds made.
I go without sleep for 24 hours one day a week.
All of this for what?
I spend less time with my kids,
Less time with my husband,
And less time with my Father
Because I am trying to be perfect in every aspect of my life.
Yet, I am failing.
Do my kids care if our house is spotless?
Does my husband care if I cook dinner and keep up the laundry?
Does God care about any of this?
I know the answer. It came to me like a thief in the night this week.
These years are fleeting. With my husband and our boys.
I prayed and I cried out to God yesterday over this.
"Please show me how to slow down and savor each day with the ones I love.
Help me to release the addiction to pursue perfection. Help me to find perfection in
You and You alone."
I promise myself, Chad, the boys, and my Creator that I will not put my house cleaning above
any of them. I will not be the Pinterest Perfect Mom that I often desire to be. I will only promise to be
fully present in my family's lives.
"There's a temptation to multi-task everything, but you can't multi-task presence."
-Cindy Crawford
I work at least 36 hours a week, but most often more than that.
I have an obsession with keeping my house clean, laundry put away, dishes clean and beds made.
I go without sleep for 24 hours one day a week.
All of this for what?
I spend less time with my kids,
Less time with my husband,
And less time with my Father
Because I am trying to be perfect in every aspect of my life.
Yet, I am failing.
Do my kids care if our house is spotless?
Does my husband care if I cook dinner and keep up the laundry?
Does God care about any of this?
I know the answer. It came to me like a thief in the night this week.
These years are fleeting. With my husband and our boys.
I prayed and I cried out to God yesterday over this.
"Please show me how to slow down and savor each day with the ones I love.
Help me to release the addiction to pursue perfection. Help me to find perfection in
You and You alone."
I promise myself, Chad, the boys, and my Creator that I will not put my house cleaning above
any of them. I will not be the Pinterest Perfect Mom that I often desire to be. I will only promise to be
fully present in my family's lives.
"There's a temptation to multi-task everything, but you can't multi-task presence."
-Cindy Crawford
These things I want to never forget
These are happenings of our lives from the Winter of 2013-Summer of 2014
-"It's what I have to!"
Everytime we ask either of the boys "why" they did something, they both answer with, "It's what I had/have to!" Sutton started this little saying and Cohen now copies him.
-"It's what I have to!"
Everytime we ask either of the boys "why" they did something, they both answer with, "It's what I had/have to!" Sutton started this little saying and Cohen now copies him.
-Cohen peeing on tire at gas station
The three of us stopped to get gas at Kroger on the way home from a busy morning. Cohen had to pee. I started the gas pump, left Sutton in the car, and Cohen and I went to the bathroom. It was occupied. Cohen started to panic. He said he had to go "so very bad." I told him to just pull down his pants and pee. He did just that. Peed right on the front tire of my car. And the gas station was crowded...like people waiting in line, crowded.
The three of us stopped to get gas at Kroger on the way home from a busy morning. Cohen had to pee. I started the gas pump, left Sutton in the car, and Cohen and I went to the bathroom. It was occupied. Cohen started to panic. He said he had to go "so very bad." I told him to just pull down his pants and pee. He did just that. Peed right on the front tire of my car. And the gas station was crowded...like people waiting in line, crowded.
-"I wuv you mommy" in the night and first thing in the morning
As soon as Sutton wakes up the first thing he says is "I wuv you, Mommy.'
We let him sleep with us recently (he rarely gets too because he tosses and turns too much) and he woke up 3 times during the night, grabbed my cheeks, and said, "I wuv you, Mommy!" He still is very much a Momma's boy, but still doesn't like to be cuddled.
As soon as Sutton wakes up the first thing he says is "I wuv you, Mommy.'
We let him sleep with us recently (he rarely gets too because he tosses and turns too much) and he woke up 3 times during the night, grabbed my cheeks, and said, "I wuv you, Mommy!" He still is very much a Momma's boy, but still doesn't like to be cuddled.
-The way Sutton spits when he's mad
Literally every time I picked Sutton up from preschool and Sunday school, I would ask him if he was good.
His response every time, "No. I hit and spit and sayed bad words." I asked the teachers after a couple of weeks of him telling me this if it were true. They all told me he is a perfect child and does nothing bad. He's such a little turkey. On the way home from dinner one night, Cohen said, "Sutton is hitting and spitting." I said, "Sutton, are you hitting and spitting and saying bad words?" Cohen, "No, he's just hitting and spitting."
Sutton had not said anything to defend himself, and had sat quietly in the back seat. Then he said, "Poo-poo!" Chad and I laughed out loud. Sutton wanted to be sure he also said a bad word.
Literally every time I picked Sutton up from preschool and Sunday school, I would ask him if he was good.
His response every time, "No. I hit and spit and sayed bad words." I asked the teachers after a couple of weeks of him telling me this if it were true. They all told me he is a perfect child and does nothing bad. He's such a little turkey. On the way home from dinner one night, Cohen said, "Sutton is hitting and spitting." I said, "Sutton, are you hitting and spitting and saying bad words?" Cohen, "No, he's just hitting and spitting."
Sutton had not said anything to defend himself, and had sat quietly in the back seat. Then he said, "Poo-poo!" Chad and I laughed out loud. Sutton wanted to be sure he also said a bad word.
-Both boys still say Oot when they want to be held
The boys are now 2.5 and 4 years old, yet they still both say "oot me" when they want to be held or carried. I love this!
The boys are now 2.5 and 4 years old, yet they still both say "oot me" when they want to be held or carried. I love this!
-S telling me that bear was cats "grandma"
Sutton asked Chad to get his "daddy." Chad said, "Im right here, buddy." Sutton said, "no, my other Daddy. Right there on the floor.' He has a bear named Daddy. Recently he has added a sister and a second daddy to his little family.
Sutton asked Chad to get his "daddy." Chad said, "Im right here, buddy." Sutton said, "no, my other Daddy. Right there on the floor.' He has a bear named Daddy. Recently he has added a sister and a second daddy to his little family.
-Me falling asleep under Christmas tree
The week before Thanksgiving I had great plans to put up the Christmas tree after I got off of work. I knew I had to stay awake all day with the boys so I wanted to be sure to stay busy so I could stay awake. I got out the old Christmas tree that Mike and Rita had when they first married, and started to put it up in the playroom. I had it assembled and "fluffed" when I realized it was crooked. I sat on the floor to adjust the base and the tree fell on me. I was so exhausted from working the night before that I just allowed myself to lay there with the tree on top of me. It was almost comfortable. I fell asleep. I have no idea how long I was asleep under that tree....It could've been 2 minutes, it could've been 30. I just woke up to the boys' voices saying, "What's mommy doing? Mommy, why are you under the tree?" Then their little hands were reaching through the branches to touch me.
e
The week before Thanksgiving I had great plans to put up the Christmas tree after I got off of work. I knew I had to stay awake all day with the boys so I wanted to be sure to stay busy so I could stay awake. I got out the old Christmas tree that Mike and Rita had when they first married, and started to put it up in the playroom. I had it assembled and "fluffed" when I realized it was crooked. I sat on the floor to adjust the base and the tree fell on me. I was so exhausted from working the night before that I just allowed myself to lay there with the tree on top of me. It was almost comfortable. I fell asleep. I have no idea how long I was asleep under that tree....It could've been 2 minutes, it could've been 30. I just woke up to the boys' voices saying, "What's mommy doing? Mommy, why are you under the tree?" Then their little hands were reaching through the branches to touch me.
e
Sunday, January 26, 2014
Praying for another..
I have always wanted a lot of kids. If it were up to me, I would have at least 5. But I would need a different husband since Chad is NOT up for that many.
Our first two are 19 months apart. I wanted a third to be that age gap too, but Chad said, "H%ll no!'
He has said he "isn't ready for another boy." I understand what he is saying. God made boys to be rowdy, wild, little explorers who love dirt and bugs. And I love being a boy mom, but it is physically exhausting some days.
I have been politely asking for another baby for several months now, and I am hoping to get my wish soon.
But, don't mention this to Chad if you talk to him;)
Our first two are 19 months apart. I wanted a third to be that age gap too, but Chad said, "H%ll no!'
He has said he "isn't ready for another boy." I understand what he is saying. God made boys to be rowdy, wild, little explorers who love dirt and bugs. And I love being a boy mom, but it is physically exhausting some days.
I have been politely asking for another baby for several months now, and I am hoping to get my wish soon.
We have a new "Grandma!'
Two weeks ago Chad and I heard Sutton talking after we put him to bed. I thought I heard him saying something about a "grandma." We have no "Grandma" in our family on either side. I am not even sure where Sutton heard this name.....
So I walked in his room and said, "Sutton, who are you talking to?"
Sutton answered, "Bear Cat's Grandma"
Remember that he has been attached to a bear and a cat since he was 5 months old. Yet, he can't have one without the other, hence the name Bear Cat.
Me: "Bear Cat has a grandma?"
S: "Yes, this (pointing to a brown bear that he's been asking to sleep with recently) is Cat's Grandma. Give Grandma a kiss."
I kissed Grandma, kissed Sutton, then went and told Chad about Sutton's new friend:)
This boy of ours..... He is something else. He can converse like a 5 year old and he's only 2! And he's never been a cuddler, but in the last 2 weeks, he wakes up from his 3 hour nap and wants me to "oot" (hold) him while he holds his Bear Cat and watches Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. He lays down on my chest, sucks his right thumb and holds Bear Cat.
He also says, "I wuv you, Mommy!" 8 times a day on average. And he asks "Coco" to "hold my hand so I don't fall" when he walks down the stairs. And Cohen always does:)
Sutton gets to sleep in the other bed in Cohen's room a couple of nights a week. They talk and giggle for hours. Last week Cohen yelled, "Mommy, Sutton needs his Grandma!" Chad and I laughed at the funny request. I went to get "grandma" and I was walking thru the bathroom to Co's room, I heard Sutton say, "Its okay Bear Cat, my mommy is getting your grandma." Be still my heart!
Sutton told Nana last week that he was going to get his Grandma. He came back a few minutes later and told Nana, "I can't reach my Grandma. Go get HIM for me."
So..... Grandma is a HE. Even funnier!
I am hoping Grandma stays around for a few years:)
So I walked in his room and said, "Sutton, who are you talking to?"
Sutton answered, "Bear Cat's Grandma"
Remember that he has been attached to a bear and a cat since he was 5 months old. Yet, he can't have one without the other, hence the name Bear Cat.
Me: "Bear Cat has a grandma?"
S: "Yes, this (pointing to a brown bear that he's been asking to sleep with recently) is Cat's Grandma. Give Grandma a kiss."
I kissed Grandma, kissed Sutton, then went and told Chad about Sutton's new friend:)
This boy of ours..... He is something else. He can converse like a 5 year old and he's only 2! And he's never been a cuddler, but in the last 2 weeks, he wakes up from his 3 hour nap and wants me to "oot" (hold) him while he holds his Bear Cat and watches Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. He lays down on my chest, sucks his right thumb and holds Bear Cat.
He also says, "I wuv you, Mommy!" 8 times a day on average. And he asks "Coco" to "hold my hand so I don't fall" when he walks down the stairs. And Cohen always does:)
Sutton gets to sleep in the other bed in Cohen's room a couple of nights a week. They talk and giggle for hours. Last week Cohen yelled, "Mommy, Sutton needs his Grandma!" Chad and I laughed at the funny request. I went to get "grandma" and I was walking thru the bathroom to Co's room, I heard Sutton say, "Its okay Bear Cat, my mommy is getting your grandma." Be still my heart!
Sutton told Nana last week that he was going to get his Grandma. He came back a few minutes later and told Nana, "I can't reach my Grandma. Go get HIM for me."
So..... Grandma is a HE. Even funnier!
I am hoping Grandma stays around for a few years:)
Tuesday, January 7, 2014
New Year, New Me?
I am disappointed in my fitness level for 2013. I was the least physically active I have EVER been. 
I blame it on a busy work schedule, little sleep, and two, time-consuming toddler boys. I resolved to get myself in shape this year. So I started Crossfit.
I did my first class tonight and let's say, I'm terrified of the intensity of Crossfit.
I'm so out of shape that I'm sure I'll be in excruciating pain and unable to walk for days! And I am sure I'll faint and throw up sometime in the next month of classes. I'm promising to give it a month to see if it's for me or not.
I took my measurements tonight to see where I am.
C- 34
W- 26.5
H- 36
Wt- 117
I'm not necessarily expecting to loose inches or weight...I'm not sure what to expect. I just wanted to see how my body changes in 4 weeks.
I'd love to have someone join me twice a week.
Anyone interested?....
Tuesday, December 24, 2013
Beginning Christmas Eve Traditions
With our boys being 2 and 3 this year it's a great time to start holiday traditions. So today on Christmas Eve, we made Gingerbread Playdoh with my mom, then baked mint chocolate chip cookies for Santa! After dinner the boys put reindeer food on the lawn, then got to open their Christmas Eve present which had Christmas pjs, popcorn, and The Incredibles.
Poor Cohen woke up with a fever today and has been very puny and pitiful so he didn't feel up to participating. He opened the present, then put himself to bed:( I'm hoping he's better tomorrow.
Tomorrow we are going to the Cochranes for brunch at 10, then my family is coming over at 4. This will be the 5th time we've entertained since moving in the second week of September. We love our home and I love having people over:)
I'm feeling beyond blessed to have such wonderful family and friends to share this most special time of year with!
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
A new blog addition?
Since I've been a momma I've become extremely hooked on crafting, painting, sewing, and such.
More days than not, I craft during my boys nap time.
My MIL suggested I blog about my daily "nap crafts."
So, starting soon, (when I have time. Ha) I'll be posting pictures and instructions on my craft of the day.
Sunday, September 22, 2013
Those Sweet Boys
My how busy life has been! We moved into our beautiful home one week ago after a 14 month debacle with construction. We absolutely love it...even more than we thought we would. We have a family of deer that graze in our backyard almost daily. Chad takes the boys on a hunt for deer tracks and deer poo most nights while I prepare dinner. They love it! We see so many stars in the sky, hear the fountain in the neighbor's pond, and crickets chirping loudly...all in the middle of Brentwood! It is truly a blessing!
Our little guys are so full of energy and are constant entertainment. Cohen is in a big boy bed for the first time. Sutton asks to sleep with "CoCo" all the time. Yes, he still calls him that. He never says Cohen. I adore it! They were in the same bed two nights ago, giggling, and looking up at the ceiling where there Dreamlite was casting stars and shapes. They are such good buddies!
But, they also fight like brothers do. That little Sutton is impossible to discipline. Cohen has always been very eager to please, and very sensitive. An ugly look towards him, makes him upset. Not my Henner! That little one hits Cohen just for the heck of it. We use the spanking spoon and he just smiles. Time out doesn't work either. So most times, he gets put in his crib as punishment. Except now he's climbing out. So, we have to develop a new plan of attack;)
The boys are both still swimming. Cohen swam all summer like a fish. They both graduated from ISR last May and have not used any type of flotation device since. Cohen is truly an impressive little swimmer! I'm so proud to go to the pool and see my child swimming better than most 5 year olds! He is now doing Swim America.
Sutton is swimming with Kennette who taught him ISR every Tuesday. He's such a great little swimmer too! If its up to me, swimming will be their sport over soccer or baseball. But, I don't get to decide that for much longer:(
Sutton talks as well as Cohen. We have 100% conversations with him. I've been told often how smart he is.
He still loves his Mommy the most, and demands a kiss for every boo-boo.
He says, "want to!" Which actually means, "I don't want to!" He'll be 2 in two weeks! Unbelievable.
Cohen is such a sweet brother. When Sutton gets hurt...he fell down our wood stairs twice the day we moved in..Cohen cries too! He also hugs Sutton goodnight and tells him he loves him. Sutton also randomly tells us he loves us! Melts my heart!!
Cohen's prayer last week, "thank you for Jesus that died on the cross." That makes this momma SO happy:)
And thank you, God, for entrusting these perfect children to us!!
Wednesday, May 22, 2013
It's been a while
Life has been so full and busy lately.....hence the reason for so long between posts!
Sutton and Cohen are happy, busy, healthy boys full of life and loads of energy!! They have been busy with swim lessons since the first week of April. We go every day Monday thru Friday for 20 minutes each day. This means that I've worked nights, slept from 8-12, picked them up from Lilys house, then drove them to Coolsprings for swim. The boys have loved every minute of it. But this Momma is completely exhausted!!
Sutton is 20 months old and such a total joy to parent. I don't know what it is that makes it so fun with him...he's funny, very easy-going, sleeps like a lion, loves his Mommy, Daddy, thumb, and "bearcat." In that order. His "bearcat" is a stuffed bear and a stuffed cat. Yet he has to have them both so he calls them "bearcat."
He sucks his thumb so much he now has a callus and 2 blisters on that thumb. He hasn't been sick once and I'm fully convinced its because that thumb touches everything then goes straight to his mouth. He's got stellar immunity! He talks in 3 word sentences regularly. He always calls his brother "Coco" and has recently started saying, "Coco mean!" When Cohen upsets him. He does everything Cohen does.
Cohen is such a mix of emotions. He is so sweet and walks up to me, hugs me, and tells me he loves me daily. He helps me with laundry, and dishes, and trash, and feeds the cat for me. He's a very eager helper....but then 2 minutes later he is crying, kicking, and screaming because I didn't let him close the dryer door. I can't help but laugh at the crazy emotions of him. He gets icky or the spanking spoon at least once a day most days. His main crimes are hitting his brother and talking ugly to me or Chad.
I went to get the spanking spoon yesterday and he said, "spanking spoons are for cooking and eating! Not spanking!" Tis true, dear son... I couldn't spank him...only laugh:)
For about 3 months now we have taken a nap together every weekday afternoon on the couch before I go to work. Each day, he request that I tell him Goldilocks then sing Jesus Loves the Monster Trucks. So every day, I tell him Goldilocks (he tells me what food the bears and Goldilocks eat. His favorites are oatmeal, pancakes, and pizza.) then I sing our made-up monster truck song.
These boys are so much fun! Chad and I stay busy, but our cups runneth over!
Sutton and Cohen are happy, busy, healthy boys full of life and loads of energy!! They have been busy with swim lessons since the first week of April. We go every day Monday thru Friday for 20 minutes each day. This means that I've worked nights, slept from 8-12, picked them up from Lilys house, then drove them to Coolsprings for swim. The boys have loved every minute of it. But this Momma is completely exhausted!!
Sutton is 20 months old and such a total joy to parent. I don't know what it is that makes it so fun with him...he's funny, very easy-going, sleeps like a lion, loves his Mommy, Daddy, thumb, and "bearcat." In that order. His "bearcat" is a stuffed bear and a stuffed cat. Yet he has to have them both so he calls them "bearcat."
He sucks his thumb so much he now has a callus and 2 blisters on that thumb. He hasn't been sick once and I'm fully convinced its because that thumb touches everything then goes straight to his mouth. He's got stellar immunity! He talks in 3 word sentences regularly. He always calls his brother "Coco" and has recently started saying, "Coco mean!" When Cohen upsets him. He does everything Cohen does.
Cohen is such a mix of emotions. He is so sweet and walks up to me, hugs me, and tells me he loves me daily. He helps me with laundry, and dishes, and trash, and feeds the cat for me. He's a very eager helper....but then 2 minutes later he is crying, kicking, and screaming because I didn't let him close the dryer door. I can't help but laugh at the crazy emotions of him. He gets icky or the spanking spoon at least once a day most days. His main crimes are hitting his brother and talking ugly to me or Chad.
I went to get the spanking spoon yesterday and he said, "spanking spoons are for cooking and eating! Not spanking!" Tis true, dear son... I couldn't spank him...only laugh:)
For about 3 months now we have taken a nap together every weekday afternoon on the couch before I go to work. Each day, he request that I tell him Goldilocks then sing Jesus Loves the Monster Trucks. So every day, I tell him Goldilocks (he tells me what food the bears and Goldilocks eat. His favorites are oatmeal, pancakes, and pizza.) then I sing our made-up monster truck song.
These boys are so much fun! Chad and I stay busy, but our cups runneth over!
Friday, March 1, 2013
Crazy Child of Mine
I took the boys to the church down the street (where we also attend often) to play on their playground. It is fenced in and we were the only ones there. It was so much fun.
But....as soon as we got there Cohen went down one of the slides right into a puddle. I didn't see this happen, but he comes waddling over to me saying his pants are wet. Sure enough, they were saturated from top to bottom in the back. I told him he would have to keep them on, take them off and play with no pants, or we would have to go home.
He chose to take them off...it was 60-something degrees Monday. He played for almost an hour with no pants.
Crazy boy!
But....as soon as we got there Cohen went down one of the slides right into a puddle. I didn't see this happen, but he comes waddling over to me saying his pants are wet. Sure enough, they were saturated from top to bottom in the back. I told him he would have to keep them on, take them off and play with no pants, or we would have to go home.
He chose to take them off...it was 60-something degrees Monday. He played for almost an hour with no pants.
Crazy boy!
What a fun day! This one is one for the memory books!
I am so blessed to have been choosen to be these boys mother.
Music Time
Our great friend Bennett turned 1 last week, and we were invited to his birthday party. Cohen didn't go because he had been feeling a little puny, so Sutton and I had a date night to the party.
Bennett's mommy threw a great party for him. She invited Mrs. Sara who does music for children at local places and parties.
It was very cute and interactive. The kids all loved it! It was the best first birthday party I have ever attended, hands down. It was all about the kids.
Sutton had a great time playing the instruments, dancing, and singing.
Bennett's mommy threw a great party for him. She invited Mrs. Sara who does music for children at local places and parties.
It was very cute and interactive. The kids all loved it! It was the best first birthday party I have ever attended, hands down. It was all about the kids.
Sutton had a great time playing the instruments, dancing, and singing.
The kids all took home party favor bags with a maracca and a whistle that looked like a bird. They also got a kazoo from Mrs. Sara. Sutton shook the maracca and blew the kazoo the whole 25 minute ride home!
Thank you, Mrs. Scarlett for such an awesome party.House is started!
The boys and I drove by our home site today and saw this....
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The foundation is done, the framing wood has been delivered, and the framing should start at the end of next week.
Yay!!
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Sorry about the quality of the second picture. The boys were so excited to see a big truck at our lot.
I am not sure what that big truck is doing, but it sure looks cool.The foundation is done, the framing wood has been delivered, and the framing should start at the end of next week.
Yay!!
Tuesday, February 12, 2013
Sutton Henry
That sweet baby boy of ours is such a delight!
He is 16 months old now and learning more and more every day. He is always happy. He loves his brother and now calls him "Coooo" or "brub-be."
He also loves his "tat" or cat, and his "ber" bear. Each morning when we go into his room to get him out of bed, he says, "tat...ber" and grabs both the cat and the bear. He wants to hold them while he gets his diaper changed, then he will take them into the kitchen for breakfast. Once he sees his breakfast he tosses the cat and bear on the floor and says, "eeeeat."
He loves to eat. He will literally eat anything we give him........except pizza. Crazy, I know.
Sutton is not a cuddler. Never has been. It really makes this mommy sad. Cohen has always been a cuddler. He still says, "ooot" when he wants to be held. He has been saying this made-up word every since he was 11 months. But not Sutton. He will come sit in my lap long enough to take a thumb-sucking break, or for me to read him a book, then he's off to play.
He will read books for a hour if you will let him. His favorite book now is Cohen's book Everybody Poops. I think it's so funny that Sutton likes this book. Maybe he will potty train early? Doubt it:)
He loves his Mommy. And I mean, loves! He wakes up saying, "Mommy, Mommy, Mommy" and always wants me to hold him.....but not in a "lay his head on my shoulder and cuddle" kind of way. Just on my hip, or in my lap.
His right thumb is still his best friend. And he loves doing whatever Cohen does. However, he is getting pretty rowdy lately. He walked up and slapped Cohen on the cheek when he was on the potty last week. I slapped Sutton's hand and said a stern, "no!" Sutton looked at me and said, "uh-oh" and walked away.
Sutton and Cohen had so much fun in the snow a couple of weeks ago. It was the first time for both of them to play in the snow.
I can't get these pics bigger for some reason:(
He is 16 months old now and learning more and more every day. He is always happy. He loves his brother and now calls him "Coooo" or "brub-be."
He also loves his "tat" or cat, and his "ber" bear. Each morning when we go into his room to get him out of bed, he says, "tat...ber" and grabs both the cat and the bear. He wants to hold them while he gets his diaper changed, then he will take them into the kitchen for breakfast. Once he sees his breakfast he tosses the cat and bear on the floor and says, "eeeeat."
He loves to eat. He will literally eat anything we give him........except pizza. Crazy, I know.
Sutton is not a cuddler. Never has been. It really makes this mommy sad. Cohen has always been a cuddler. He still says, "ooot" when he wants to be held. He has been saying this made-up word every since he was 11 months. But not Sutton. He will come sit in my lap long enough to take a thumb-sucking break, or for me to read him a book, then he's off to play.
He will read books for a hour if you will let him. His favorite book now is Cohen's book Everybody Poops. I think it's so funny that Sutton likes this book. Maybe he will potty train early? Doubt it:)
He loves his Mommy. And I mean, loves! He wakes up saying, "Mommy, Mommy, Mommy" and always wants me to hold him.....but not in a "lay his head on my shoulder and cuddle" kind of way. Just on my hip, or in my lap.
His right thumb is still his best friend. And he loves doing whatever Cohen does. However, he is getting pretty rowdy lately. He walked up and slapped Cohen on the cheek when he was on the potty last week. I slapped Sutton's hand and said a stern, "no!" Sutton looked at me and said, "uh-oh" and walked away.
Sutton and Cohen had so much fun in the snow a couple of weeks ago. It was the first time for both of them to play in the snow.
I can't get these pics bigger for some reason:(
And how about this?..... This cute baby that looks like my Sutton Henry is.....me! I saw this picture at my parents house in a frame and literally thought that it was Sutton for a second. Except I lack those cute dimples that he has.
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| Sutton |
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| Me |
Are you observing?
I have prayerfully decided that I am going to "participate" in sacrificing some things for Lent.
I have never observed Lent. I am a bit ashamed of this.
A little background on me...
I grew up knowing Christ and His ultimate sacrifice from my mother. Even though we never attended church more than 5-10 times per year, I knew all the Bible stories and said my prayers every night. My grandparents are Catholic and I attended mass with them many times, and I also went to Baptist church with my parents. However, I did not read the Bible or attend church regularly until I met Chad when I was 18.
Pretty quickly in our relationship he told me that if we wanted to continue dating, I must attend church with him every Sunday. I will admit, at first I went to church with him because I simply wanted to spend every moment with him. After several months, I realized I liked being part of a church family. I found myself becoming more conscious of my words and actions and striving to be more Christ-like. Chad and I committed to reading the entire new testament the second year we were dating. Every night, I would call him from my dorm room and we would take turns reading 1-2 chapters of the Bible each night. I thank Chad for helping me grow into the Christian that I am.
We are fortunate to have found 2 churches that are perfect for our family. Harpeth Hills church is where we spend our Sunday mornings and Sunday evenings with our wonderful life group. And Granny White is our Wednesday night church. If you are looking for a place to call home, both of these are wonderful church families.
Back to lent....
The purpose is to set aside time for reflection on Jesus Christ - his suffering and his sacrifice, his life, death, burial and resurrection.
I am observing lent this year for these reasons. Jesus Christ gave up so much for me. I should be able to give up some things for Him, in honor of Him.
I choose to give up two things that will be extremely difficult for me. Yet are nothing compared to His sacrifice........
Sugar
Non-essential purchases.
My plan is to pray or read scripture when I feel the urge to eat a cookie or buy a lip gloss, clothes for my boys, etc.
What will you give up in observance of lent?
I have never observed Lent. I am a bit ashamed of this.
A little background on me...
I grew up knowing Christ and His ultimate sacrifice from my mother. Even though we never attended church more than 5-10 times per year, I knew all the Bible stories and said my prayers every night. My grandparents are Catholic and I attended mass with them many times, and I also went to Baptist church with my parents. However, I did not read the Bible or attend church regularly until I met Chad when I was 18.
Pretty quickly in our relationship he told me that if we wanted to continue dating, I must attend church with him every Sunday. I will admit, at first I went to church with him because I simply wanted to spend every moment with him. After several months, I realized I liked being part of a church family. I found myself becoming more conscious of my words and actions and striving to be more Christ-like. Chad and I committed to reading the entire new testament the second year we were dating. Every night, I would call him from my dorm room and we would take turns reading 1-2 chapters of the Bible each night. I thank Chad for helping me grow into the Christian that I am.
We are fortunate to have found 2 churches that are perfect for our family. Harpeth Hills church is where we spend our Sunday mornings and Sunday evenings with our wonderful life group. And Granny White is our Wednesday night church. If you are looking for a place to call home, both of these are wonderful church families.
Back to lent....
The purpose is to set aside time for reflection on Jesus Christ - his suffering and his sacrifice, his life, death, burial and resurrection.
I am observing lent this year for these reasons. Jesus Christ gave up so much for me. I should be able to give up some things for Him, in honor of Him.
I choose to give up two things that will be extremely difficult for me. Yet are nothing compared to His sacrifice........
Sugar
Non-essential purchases.
My plan is to pray or read scripture when I feel the urge to eat a cookie or buy a lip gloss, clothes for my boys, etc.
What will you give up in observance of lent?
Friday, February 8, 2013
Back to my "home."
As you may or may not know, I left my job in labor and delivery in July 2012 for an opportunity to work with a great company as a clinical specialist. My job is to travel to various hospitals across the country and in-service the operating room staff and physicians on the use of our products. I knew this job would require me to travel 2-3 days a week with those days being over-night trips. I have been working with great people, staying in really nice hotels, flying somewhere almost every week, and eating at fancy restuarants....all for free. Oh, and I also have a company car, iphone, and laptop.
Not a bad gig......unless you have children.
I miss my boys and Chad like crazy. I am alone a lot, which I enjoy, but, geez do I miss my family.
Around Thanksgiving I decided I wanted to go back to labor and delivery full time. I truly love being an L and D nurse. It gets in your blood, like an addiction. I love the adrenaline rush of the emergencies that happen on occasion. If you are unlucky enough to have an abruption, cord prolapse, or any other obstetrical emergency...I'm the nurse for you:)
I spent a lot of time convincing Chad that I was sure that I wanted to leave my current job and go back to being a floor nurse. Chad was doing totally fine with me working out of town. He said it wasn't any different than me working night shifts at the hospital because he didn't see me either way. But, as a momma who prides myself on being as "present" as I can be in my children's lives, I could not travel around the country and miss my boys lives. Every time I came home after being gone for 4 days, my boys were doing new things.
Thankfully, my very great friend is also the manager of L&D. She knew how unhappy I was traveling, and let me know when there was an open position for me to apply. After a few interviews, I was able to get a great job where I have spent almost 7 years doing just what I love!
I am officially finished with the traveling job next week! It is bittersweet. The job is an awesome job for a nurse with no children. So if you are an RN looking for a great gig....give me a shout. I know people:)
Have a wonderful, blessed weekend!
Not a bad gig......unless you have children.
I miss my boys and Chad like crazy. I am alone a lot, which I enjoy, but, geez do I miss my family.
Around Thanksgiving I decided I wanted to go back to labor and delivery full time. I truly love being an L and D nurse. It gets in your blood, like an addiction. I love the adrenaline rush of the emergencies that happen on occasion. If you are unlucky enough to have an abruption, cord prolapse, or any other obstetrical emergency...I'm the nurse for you:)
I spent a lot of time convincing Chad that I was sure that I wanted to leave my current job and go back to being a floor nurse. Chad was doing totally fine with me working out of town. He said it wasn't any different than me working night shifts at the hospital because he didn't see me either way. But, as a momma who prides myself on being as "present" as I can be in my children's lives, I could not travel around the country and miss my boys lives. Every time I came home after being gone for 4 days, my boys were doing new things.
Thankfully, my very great friend is also the manager of L&D. She knew how unhappy I was traveling, and let me know when there was an open position for me to apply. After a few interviews, I was able to get a great job where I have spent almost 7 years doing just what I love!
I am officially finished with the traveling job next week! It is bittersweet. The job is an awesome job for a nurse with no children. So if you are an RN looking for a great gig....give me a shout. I know people:)
Have a wonderful, blessed weekend!
Friday, February 1, 2013
Starting at Last!
After issues with the lot and whether there was a "spring," "storm drain," or "sinkhole" in the middle of the lot we finally got that settled in November and were given the go to start construction.
Permits were slow to obtain, and weather wasn't (and still isn't) on our side so the grating of the lot just happened last week!
This has been a long, very frustrating process, but I finally feel like we will actually have a new home in the next 6 months.
A little back story...
My dad and my brother are both contractors. In a perfect world I would have them build our home. My dad built every house we ever lived in, plus many more homes through the years. He does an amazing job and is very talented. We always thought we would buy a lot and have my dad build us our dream home. Well, considering Chad refuses to live "south of Concord Road" and would live in Green Hills in a perfect world...our options to buy land were extremely limited. There are virtually NO lots in Green Hills, and very few in Brentwood that allow you to bring your own builder. So we decided to build in Fountainbrook in Brentwood and use their builder.
It makes me extremely nervous to put my trust and money in a builder's hands. Especially when I have heard mixed reviews on this company. However, we know that we are getting a great home for the money, will be in a great neighborhood with some of our very best friends, and a great school system for our kids.
We went and picked out our light fixtures on Saturday and I was extremely surprised at Chad's choices. Here are pictures of lights that look like our choices.
This is the light Chad picked for over our kitchen table. I call it "the bird nest" light:)
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| Our pendant lighting above our island looks close to this, but it is aluminum.
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I decided that I will put only things that I love into this house. I will not concern myself with whether or not things "match" but I will be sure that this house is totally "me" and fits our family's lifestyle.
That's why we will have distressed wood floors. With two boys, and hopefully more children in the future the floors will take a severe beating..so why not have floors that only look better with more scratches and dents?
One of the most exciting things about our new home is we have 2 of our very best friends in our neighborhood. The Schimmels and the Loftons.
I will keep the blog updated with our progress of our home!
Fabulous weekend to all!
Kelly
One of the most exciting things about our new home is we have 2 of our very best friends in our neighborhood. The Schimmels and the Loftons.
I will keep the blog updated with our progress of our home!
Fabulous weekend to all!
Kelly
Wednesday, January 9, 2013
Things to Teach my Boys
I have read several lists of "things to teach/tell my boys/girls" and I decided I wanted to write my own.
Things to Teach my Boys:
1) Love with your whole heart.
2) Pray daily
3) Give hugs and smiles freely
4) Read books besides the ones you are made to read in school.
5) Forgive others as you wish to be forgiven.
6) Live like David in the Bible..A man after God's own heart.
7) Play sports. But don't get caught up on winning. Enjoy the camaraderie of being part of a team.
8) Get closer to nature. Walk through the woods, hunt, fish. Enjoy God's creation.
9) Always remain close to your family. Your Mom, Dad, siblings, and grandparents will always be on your team in the game of life.
10) Get dirty.
11) Jump in puddles and play in the rain.
12) Read your Bible
13) Own a pet. It's a great way to learn responsibility and practice for becoming a parent one day.
14) Don't be arrogant. It is very unbecoming
15) Be grateful. You have more than most.
16) Treat women with respect. Open doors for them, compliment them, and don't discuss bodily functions, burp, or fart in front of them.
17) Eat healthy. Fast food is killing Americans.
18) Be active.
19) Work hard at what you love.
20) Go to college and live on campus. A degree is the least of what you gain from going to college. You will learn about yourself and make life-long friends.
21) Drive the speed limit. Too many boys think they are invincible.
22) Don't be late. It is disrespectful.
23) Do what you say you will do, when you say you will do it. It's called integrity.
24) High School is hard. And it is NOT close to "the best time of your life." Just stay out of trouble during those years.
25) Stand up for what is right. Don't allow kids to be bullies.
26) Be a leader. Everyone else will follow your example.
and the one my Momma always told me...
"Everything will come out in the wash."
*****I thank my Momma for teaching me so many of these things. She showed me how to love others by always volunteering her time and money to help those in need. She allowed me to color my hair blue when I was 13, pierce my nose and the cartilage of my ear when I was 12, and to do every sport that was offered in Fairview, TN..except soccer. I wasn't any good at soccer. I always walked to my own beat because my Momma encouraged me to.
I love you, Momma!
Kelly
Things to Teach my Boys:
1) Love with your whole heart.
2) Pray daily
3) Give hugs and smiles freely
4) Read books besides the ones you are made to read in school.
5) Forgive others as you wish to be forgiven.
6) Live like David in the Bible..A man after God's own heart.
7) Play sports. But don't get caught up on winning. Enjoy the camaraderie of being part of a team.
8) Get closer to nature. Walk through the woods, hunt, fish. Enjoy God's creation.
9) Always remain close to your family. Your Mom, Dad, siblings, and grandparents will always be on your team in the game of life.
10) Get dirty.
11) Jump in puddles and play in the rain.
12) Read your Bible
13) Own a pet. It's a great way to learn responsibility and practice for becoming a parent one day.
14) Don't be arrogant. It is very unbecoming
15) Be grateful. You have more than most.
16) Treat women with respect. Open doors for them, compliment them, and don't discuss bodily functions, burp, or fart in front of them.
17) Eat healthy. Fast food is killing Americans.
18) Be active.
19) Work hard at what you love.
20) Go to college and live on campus. A degree is the least of what you gain from going to college. You will learn about yourself and make life-long friends.
21) Drive the speed limit. Too many boys think they are invincible.
22) Don't be late. It is disrespectful.
23) Do what you say you will do, when you say you will do it. It's called integrity.
24) High School is hard. And it is NOT close to "the best time of your life." Just stay out of trouble during those years.
25) Stand up for what is right. Don't allow kids to be bullies.
26) Be a leader. Everyone else will follow your example.
and the one my Momma always told me...
"Everything will come out in the wash."
*****I thank my Momma for teaching me so many of these things. She showed me how to love others by always volunteering her time and money to help those in need. She allowed me to color my hair blue when I was 13, pierce my nose and the cartilage of my ear when I was 12, and to do every sport that was offered in Fairview, TN..except soccer. I wasn't any good at soccer. I always walked to my own beat because my Momma encouraged me to.
I love you, Momma!
Kelly
Thursday, January 3, 2013
Christmas 2012
We had such a great Christmas this year at Nana and Papa's house. It has been so fun living with them. I'm serious. I will be sad to move out in the spring when our house is finished. The boys love it so much. We got some Christmas lights out for a few pictures.
This year for Christmas we took Cohen to see Santa twice. Once at Lipscomb and the other time at Green Hills mall. He asked Santa for "a guitar, big boy pants, and a wittle Chrissmas tree for my room." So sweet. We put a small tree in their room for a few nights but it didn't go over so well....for us. They would stay awake looking at the tree and talking about it for hours. The tree left after 3-4 nights. But he did get his big boy pants and a guitar from Santa.
Sutton got a Mr Potato Head and he loves it! Carries it with him everywhere... will spend 30 minutes playing with him on the floor..Nice for us!
I've got baby fever but Chad says "absolutely NOT now!!!" I'd have 5 kids if he would agree to it. That won't happen though.
But I am certainly enjoying each moment with these boys.
Well, that's a bit of a lie. Cohen is prone to tantrums daily before 10am. He is NOT a morning person. He morphs into this demon child for a bit. I am NOT enjoying those moments.
Happy New Year!!
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