Sophie's Stories

Christmas Eve

2011-12-24T23:36:00.004-05:00

Got up a little late this morning and we were all moving a little slow, but we finally made it out the door and headed to Grantsboro to see grandma! Sophie was so excited just to see everyone and is now a pro at opening presents. Remembering the last couple of Christmases where you had to coach her into opening the next present because she just wanted to play with the one she just opened!

Anyway, we returned home that evening to bake Santa's cookies. Man what a sugar rush Santa's gonna have this Christmas!!

Christmas with Neenie

2011-12-24T23:28:00.004-05:00

Dance

2011-12-24T23:19:00.006-05:00

Last week we were able to sit in on one of Sophie's dance classes! She loves it so much and I really injoyed getting a little peek into what she's been learning in there. Very impressed, if I do say so myself!

Oh what a Wonderful Child

2011-12-19T14:47:00.004-05:00

I captured the last few verses....I think this was my favorite part of the whole program!

Tis the Season!

2011-12-19T14:39:00.004-05:00

That was the name of Sophie's first Christmas play. And she was not loving that sheep costume!! But except for that minor detail, everything went great. This was also my first year, along with Shelly, to do the background for the play. It was alot of work, but when it was all said and done we were both very pleased with the outcome:)

Christmas Town

2011-12-12T14:05:00.002-05:00

Our second annual trip to Busch Garden's Christmas Town...hoping this will be a new family tradition as it really just sits the mood for the season. Complete with a Santa that knows the true meaning of Christmas. After spending some time in deep conversation with Sophie he then motioned for William to lend his ear. Confirming what we already knew that our daughter was a gift from God and that we are blessed! REALLY love that Santa! Family picture taken in "France". One of my favorite countries.

Neenie and Sophie taking a little break while Daddy and Taylor give the roller coaster a try. Wish I had taken a picture of their hair when they got off!!

Our two favorite girls!!

It was starting to get really crowded, so I didn't get the best photo in the penguin excursion.

Sleep Over

2011-12-05T13:52:00.001-05:00

Sophie's very first sleepover with two of her little friends from school! My house was transformed into a castle complete with three very special princesses!

They loved decorating their own cupcakes....sprinkles everywhere!!

I must say , this is my very favorite photo of the evening!

My Snow White!

2011-11-01T14:10:00.002-04:00

The Cutest Snow White EVER!!!! My Levi the Lobster!!

Costume contest 0-3yrs..... the mini cheerleader took home the prize!

Lots of fun in the bounce house.

Got the prize duck on the first try!!

Love my Higher Ground family! Making memories to last a lifetime.

Raising Funds for Baby #2!

2011-10-08T09:02:00.003-04:00

Custom Built Canopy Doll Bed! $140....and one to be raffled off later this month!

The Little Things....

2011-09-26T13:47:00.003-04:00

Sophie's dressed and I'm in the middle of fixing her hair for dance. Levi wakes up from his nap. "Oh Sophie! You're a princess!" He exclaimed. "Thank you." says Sophie. "Where are you going?" Levi asked. "To dance." replies Sophie. "Can I go watch you dance?" "Sure!" says Sophie.

Ballet

2011-09-07T13:59:00.006-04:00

A picture is worth a thousand words!!!!!

Hurricaine Irene

2011-08-29T10:26:00.009-04:00

This had to be the longest hurricaine ever!! Starting at 1:30am saturday morning I moved Sophie from her bed to my makeshift bed in the closet under the stairs. Mommy slept(if you want to call it that) halfway between and hall and closet. We spent all day saturday in the hall fingerpainting, coloring, putting puzzels together, and watching a little Nanny McFee. Call me overprotective, but just not taking any chances with this precious little girl!

Sophie wakes up Sunday morning and says "Mommy, do we have to play in the hall again today?'

And the clean up begins....if could have been much worse. Thank you Lord for protecting my family!!!

BACA

2011-08-15T13:50:00.003-04:00

Sophie's first day of school!! So excited that morning. When we arrived she quickly went into play mode and waved at me, "see ya later mommy!"

Sophie and Savannah

2011-08-14T13:12:00.000-04:00

So I really have lots up catching up to do! Let's start with what I hope to be our Annual trip to Top Sail Beach. It was so nice to be able to spend the weekend with the Decker Family. We learned real quick last year that one day just wasnt' enough. I just love seeing the girls together. When they walked through the "Shark" at the surf shop, it wasn't hard to tell that Savannah had just woke up. Sophie played shy....for just a bit. After a little shopping it was off to Mickey D's for a late lunch as the girls very quickly warmed up to each other.

And it didn't take long for Tannor to win Sophie over either.

A little down time while Melinda prepared a yummy supper ending with a fruit pizza that was just heavenly. And since we're making memories here I must confess...on my night to cook, I decided to be "smart" and put a ham in the oven while we played in the pool. SOOOO, we had blackened ham with cheese potatoes that took 2 hours to cook because I didn't realize I had turned the oven off after taking the ham out!!! I think it was like 9pm by the time we ate!

Another day on the beach. I don't have any pictures of these too at the pool. Must have forgotten the camera:(

And at the end of our visit. It was time for our photo shoot. Melinda got the girls matching dresses. They were just adorable!! My camera fogged up and thank goodness Brian was smart and left his out on the balcony... He took some awesome pictures!! Can't wait til next year!!!

Independence DAY!!

2011-07-09T14:00:00.000-04:00

FUN!!FUN!!AND MOREFUN!!!!

Day three of vacation came with more river time, hot dogs, and hamburgers. Fireworks that evening!!

Fourth of July.....(day two)

2011-07-07T22:56:00.000-04:00

Day Two:
Church
Baked Spagetti Picnic
Smores
Fireworks
and more water fun!!

Fourth of July...(day one)

2011-07-06T22:38:00.001-04:00

Day One:
BBQ Chicken
Fishing
Tubing
Games
Swimming........

Randomness***

2011-07-01T22:27:00.000-04:00

SOPHIEness:)...
Let's go higher mommy!!
Nothing like a good PBJ after a nice swim in the pool....

Having lunch with my Levi.......

Check me out mommy. I'm ready to go!!

My favorite past time....

Father's Day Weekend

2011-06-22T22:12:00.002-04:00

Since we spent Mother's Day at Nags Head, we decided to do sort of the same thing for Father's Day. We sent the men a day early to go fishing, then came up the next day with the kiddos. It ened up not being a very good day for fishing, but we had a wonderful time just "being" together. That evening Daddy took us to Captain George's for dinner and we spent the next day on the beach. The kids loved it, of course and it was so nice to kick back and enjoy family!

Inside Out & Upside Down....

2011-06-18T10:08:00.003-04:00

On Main Street. Where Jesus makes a difference everyday!! Sophie had a BLAST this week at VBS. I have to admit I do believe her favorite time was on stage that last night. All week she kept asking me when she could go on stage and dance!! The girl loves music! And after five nights of Cooper, finally on the last night she was comfortable enough to run up to Cooper and give him a hug!

Turn the camera on too quick for this one! Trying to catch her finally giving Cooper love!

Not so sure about this....

Feels like Summer Already!!

2011-06-16T12:32:00.014-04:00

Lately finding time to blog seems nearly impossible these days. With all the busy weekends filled with fun in the sun, to trying to keep up with house work during the week, staining the deck, keeping the garden up, AND hanging out clothes to dry....well you get the picture. So with out further "ado" here's what Sophie's been up to:

We opened the pool up the first of May this year as it quickly jumped from the seventies to the nineties, however the pool was still pretty chilly. We started the season off with a little sprinkler and mini pool fun!

Memorial Day Weekend....we spent that Saturday on the Chowan at Poppy's and Aunties.
The guys cooked a mean pig and we had hot homemade banana pudding for LUNCH! (forgot the pbj)

That Monday we had friends and family over for some sausage dogs on the grill! The next weekend we did a little yard work....didn't get quite as much as I had hoped since I ended up in the er for a splinter! Seriously. Came in on the bottom of my middle toe, then out the top! And after 30 minutes of William trying to get it out, I didn't care what it cost! It was time to numb that thing!!

And last weekend, Uncle Charlie's birthday!! Need I say more:)

And this week we've been VBSing on MainStreet!! Only two nights left then we're off for another weekend at the OBX! Sunning, Swimming, and Fishing with the Dads. Papa included!!!! YAY!!

Another Nice Weekend on the OBX!

2011-05-15T18:10:00.004-04:00

Needless to say, we were NOT ready to come home! Contrary to the weather forecast, it was a beautiful weekend. The boys boat ride however rough still turned out to be a descent day considering only two boats caught anything. No tuna, just dolphin, but it sure did hit the spot this evening!

A Relaxing Mother's Day Weekend

2011-05-09T20:03:00.002-04:00

Much needed and welcomed down time..... Let's see....hummm where have all the big shells gone??

Daddy doing his thing. He was in heaven.

You can touch it if you want to Aunt Christy, but I think I'll pass on this little hands on experience!

Resting a bit after racing down the beach!

Can't wait til next weekend!!!!

Lambs Day

2011-04-19T14:24:00.003-04:00

Palm Sunday Celebration

2011-04-18T14:02:00.001-04:00

Celebrating with my dad's side of the family Sunday, we had pig and lots of other yummy foods. Papa went over board with bats, boouncing balls, their own easter bucket, and even a parrott!! Wow!! He puts the Easter bunny to sham:)

Higher Ground Debute

2011-04-17T14:17:00.000-04:00

Dance A Lot Robot

2011-03-18T18:27:00.000-04:00

Sophie really got into this one. Loved adding the ribbon....

Spring Fever

2011-03-10T18:09:00.000-05:00

Thought I'd start this one off with that little "cheese" grin. She still loves the camera! So ready for some warm weather. She comes home everyday saying, "it's warm today mommy....??? yes it is. Can I play in my play house?" So we did a little spring cleaner, more like sweeping out the gum balls.....Man they are EVERYWHERE!

So excited to see daddy blow out the candles and the cake she helped make just for him!

Valentine's Banquette

2011-02-24T14:50:00.003-05:00

What a blast. Their were so many celebraties there. From Dolly to Sonny and Cher!!! There was the Honey Mooners, Archie and Edith, Elvis, and yours truly, Adam and Eve. The food was off the hook and so was the entertainment!

Oh and can't believe I almost forgot MEDEA!!! Awesome Talent at our Higher Ground Home!

Blog Lazy!!! (luv ya Alyson!)

2011-02-24T14:09:00.007-05:00

OK, so it's been a while....sorry. Let's see if I can do a little catch me up for the last month or so.

Well, it snowed....again!! What is up with that. It has been a very cold winter. I am so ready for spring. Sophie however, LOVES the stuff. This time it was the perfect formula for making a snow man.
Then it finally warmed up some so that we could get outside and really try that bike out. She did a great job. Even turning around. Those training wheels will be off in no time!!

Miss DeeDee and Sophie introduced Chinese New Year to the kiddos in her class this year.
They made Dragon noise makers, had their very own parade, and watched fireworks at the end of the morning class. I thought it was so nice of Miss DeeDee to plan a week around this very special Chinese Holiday.

For Valentines Day we made Strawberry cupcakes with vanilla frosting and chocolate initials for each of the girls in her class and hearts on the extra ones.

And daddy went just a bit over the top this year!

So why have I been so "blog lazy"? :)... I just started teaching girls ministry back in January and William and I were in a skit for the Valentines Banquett at Church. It's been practice, practice, practice. And I'll post some of that later:)

Lamb's Day Camp

2011-01-11T12:44:00.004-05:00

Sophie's first day a Lamb's Day Camp was a huge success!! That morning she gave me a big hug and sent me on my way! When it was time for me to pick her up, two and a half hours later, she was not compliant. Holding on to Mrs. DeeDee pleading to stay. I knew when I went back to pick her up it was not going to be good. She craves the company of other children.It's the perfect solution. So for just a couple of hours, two days a week, five little girls get together for some girly dress up, number counting, yes mam' kinda fun. And to top it off, Sophie's teacher is the mom of my childhood BEST friend.

A Late Christmas Present

2010-12-31T23:17:00.001-05:00

Forecast ed to arrive late Christmas Day, it wasn't wasn't until early the next morning the white stuff started to arrive. Like a blizzard the wind blew and the snow fell all day long. We got out in it for a while that evening after the flakes had slowed some. Sophie was so happy to wake up from her nap and find Taylor there ready to play in the snow with her. From snow angels to sledding we all had a great time. Charlie, Drake, and Holden stayed that night. We had yummy hot chocolate when we came in and everyone played with the games Santa had brought Sophie for Christmas. Oh it was so much fun.

The next day we ventured out again. Taylor and Ryan came over and of course the four wheeler was at full force again. Sophie and her daddy built a snowman while mommy watched from the warmth of the living room. (already had a nasty cold) I made two batches of snow cream. Neither one made it to the freezer. It was a wonderful end to the Christmas Season.

It's Christmas!!!

2010-12-31T11:32:00.006-05:00

WoW! What a wonderful Christmas Season! On Christmas Eve we drove to Grantsboro to see Grandma. Sophie fell asleep on the ride home, which in turn made for a late night.

She was so excited about making cookies for Santa. He probably had a sugar rush when he left our house that night. Over the past couple of months if you asked Sophie what she wanted Santa to bring her she'd quickly respond "Santa's gonna bring my bike!" Welp, he came through. And a pink one at that. Her face that morning was priceless. She tore through presents, but made sure she said thank you after each one. Such manners!

We had visitors through out the day. Sophie was just so excited. Trying to get her to take a nap that day was impossible.

That evening when we loaded up to go to Papa's, which is only 15 minutes away.....she crashed!! So we let her get a little refresher nap in before waking her up for the next round of Christmas. Papa always goes overboard and this year the favorite was definitely the MobiGo.

More of Williamsburg

2010-12-31T11:16:00.005-05:00

So on the third morning we were really lazy. Got up later. Went to Ihop. Come back. Got lazier. William and Chris went shopping. Kids took naps. Then we were off to Colonial Williamsburg again. Dinner this evening was an experience all of it's own. It was getting late. I wanted to just go ahead and eat. I could not even tell you the name of this FORMAL, EXPENSIVE, french looking place. CHris's crowd got up and left. We decided to try it. VERY different. Funny thing is, I LOVED it. NO one else did. William order duck and I had the pigeon. I'll let the pictures do the talking.

After that we hit some shops and headed back in. The next morning we packed up and headed to the Outlets Malls. Did just a little shopping, because my cold was getting worse. On the ride home Sophie's famous words, "Mommy, I don't want to go home." "You don't!" I replied. "NO!!I want to go on vacation again!"

Williamsburg ....Day Two

2010-12-30T21:01:00.005-05:00

The second day started with the opening of gifts. Our tradition has been to do it in the morning and normally at the beginning of the vacation so the kids have some new toys to play with. Sophie got lots of dress up clothes from Neenie and Aunt Christy gave her yet another beautiful outfit.

Later that morning we spent some time in the pool. Our little water bugs did not want to get out, but after informimg Sophie that we needed to go get our naps so we could go back to Christmas Town that night, there was no more fussing!

That night was spent mostly riding rides. We ate at the Smoke House and that was good food. Not too expensive either. We also saw Rejoice which was a very nice musical. The kids weren't really into it, but it didn't last that long either. I introduced Sophie to hot chocolate that night. She's now a big fan. Tonight we turned in a little early as Sophie started to get moody that evening. And let's face it. If she's not happy, why bother.

Williamsburg Virgina ......Day One

2010-12-27T19:03:00.007-05:00

We spend five days, four nights in Williamsburg this year. The first night we ventured out to the Kmart and picked up the necessaries. Pepsi, chips, milk, puzzle, a Christmas tree!! I used my small one for the nursery this year and we had to have somewhere to put the presents. So we came back. Had some baked spaghetti and relaxed for the rest of the evening.

The next day we headed out to colonial Williamsburg where we to the bus tour and exited at the Museum. The kids had their first Santa encounter there. Sophie was just a bit shy, but soon opened right up to let him know that she wanted a bike for Christmas. Levi was a little weary, but little did we know that this would be his closest encounter with the Clause. At noon we headed back in for a nap, because that night we would have the Fireside Feast with Santa!

As we walked into the park the music from Polar Express playing just made the kid inside you want to jump out. While we waited for Chris and William to take care of the tickets the kids twirled and danced with excitement. When we striaght to Scotland to confirmed our reservations with Santa. My Disclaimer....the food is not that great, BUT the Santa is Awesome!!! And Sophie had no problem walking right across that stage, climbing into his lap and letting him know what she wanted for christmas. It was the cutest thing ever. That evening we rode the train, huge hit!! The carosal, the horses, the swings, the lights were amazing. It was like a winter wonderland. By the end of the evening we were exhasted. As we walked toward the exit of the park we stoped in for the Seasme Street Show. Althought Sophie loved the show, there was no way she was getting close enough for pictures! As we left the park, the parking lot was almost empty and we were still Holly, jollying out of that place.

Recapturing Christmas

2010-12-27T18:34:00.003-05:00

It'll probly take me a few days to do this as we've had sooo much packed into the last 10 days.
We kicked it off with our annual seafood feast at Poppy's and Auntie's. Oysters, shrimp, and crablegs.....all you could eat off it. Not to mention all the chocolate covered treats. We had a great time. Sophie and Levi both received gifts. Sophie loved her stand up mic. She preformed Jingel Bells for us. Complete with bowing and a "thank you. Thank you." She was adorable.

Sunday morning we had a glorious worship service. It made my Christmas. I'm so glad we waiting until after church to leave for Williamsburg. The church was beautiful.

"Artsy"

2010-12-16T21:25:00.002-05:00

So here's the deal. Anything to do with her hands, painting, coloring, even pushing those cloves into moma pre-poked holes, she just loves it. Tuesday she went home with Neenie for a few hours. They rolled, cut out, and cooked gingerbread cookies. The next day I set her up at her little table and she went to town. For her birthday we got lots of crayola stuff. She should be good for a couple of months:)

And what did we do today......

She's THREE Ya'll!!

2010-12-12T21:25:00.005-05:00

Where did the time go....Where is the time going? My baby is three already!! And what a little hostess she is. Making sure everyone got their hugs and doing introductions as they entered the room! On her face were emotions of pure joy as her dearest loved ones surrounded her. "It's my party" she would say with a huge smile. She is such a sweetheart. This year she has been amazed with just every little thing. The lotus candle gets better every year...for Sophie anyway. It seemed to scare Levi this year! Just a little too much fire for him:) Loved the Oreo ice cream cake. Think there's about three slices left. And she did a great job opening and thanking everyone for her presents. By the end of the evening we were all beat and it took all of fifteen minutes and she was out for the night. The next morning she rolled over looked at me (yes she gets up in the middle of the night and crawls in with us)and said "good morning mommy. Taylor still here?" "Yes darling. She's on the couch sleeping." "Thank you mommy." She melts me. Her voice, that smile, her laugh, it's all pure, genuine Sophie. There's not another one like her.....I am so grateful to her birth mother for choosing life. I can't imagine my life with out her. Happy Birthday to my wonderful daughter. I love you with everything in me!!

Old Traditions...New Traditions.....

2010-11-29T12:24:00.007-05:00

Not so sure..... We started our normal Thanksgiving at Papa's with his fried turkey. The skin on those things are sinfully scrumptious!! The stuffing's turned out just right and the pies were heavenly! There was just enough lefts overs for the next day. Grandma is in Grantsboro now, and with that in mind we didn't have anywhere to go for dinner this year and decided to go check out the black Friday madness we had always heard so much about. Sophie and Levi stayed with Papa. CHris, Christy, William, and I oladed up at to check out Kmart's sale. By 8:30 we were passing by Toysrus, which opened at 10pm and what we saw was astonishing. Hoards of people crowded the front and side of the building. Christy took pictures. WOW!! Later we went to Walmart in Greenville. That was outrageous too:) The highlight of our evening was IHOP!! SO, new tradition....probably not. Although the experience was entertaining, next time we might just head west.....

CAN YA HEAR ME NOW

2010-11-23T12:11:00.000-05:00

been thinking about this ever since sunday school.... if you have ever felt ignored, or "snubbed" by me, ever spoken to me and I didn't speak back, I am truly sorry. I do not mean to hurt anyone's feelings. I am completely and TOTalLY deaf in my right ear. THere are times William grabs my attention to let me know someone is speaking to me. That is why I avoid conversation in crowded rooms or sometimes turn my head in what would seem like an awkward direction when someone is speaking to me.....So next time, if your talking to me and I seem totally lost or like I'm ignoring you, tap me on the shoulder and ask me " CAN YA HEAR ME NOW!" :)~

One of those Catching up Kinda Posts...

2010-11-18T20:13:00.010-05:00

Gosh, with so much going on lately, keeping up with this blog has been kinda last on the totem pole. I figured I better catch up now, cause with the holidays, baby girls birthday, and vacation all happening in the next month, I don't know when I'll find the time.
We've almost finished the floors in the kitchen with just the shoe molding left to go down. I LOVE it! Sophie put the first scratch on it with the week, but that's why we choose the hand scraped. You really don't notice it.

A few weeks ago we went to Askewville Assembly's 80th Anniversary Celebration. We really had a good time and Sophie was so excited to have mommy go through the obstacle course and up the mountain so she could go down the big slide!

Last week, we went out to eat, did a little shopping, and took.....FAMILY PICTURES!!! Yeah!! That was my birthday request:) In the first picture is a trial run of one of Sophie's outfits and then of course the whole family.

Fall Festivities

2010-11-01T21:07:00.004-04:00

Very busy weekend!! Saturday night we had a fairy at kids nite out. Moma didn't take any pictures because someone hid her camera.....hmmm.. Thankfully found it Sunday!! Sunday night was Hallelujah Night at our home church Higher Ground. Oh we all had so much fun. Guess who won first place for best costume? Thing One!!!

More than Just a pet.....

2010-10-19T11:42:00.005-04:00

This week we have lost an amazing friend. A part of our family. He guarded over us, loved us unconditionally, licked our wounds (literally) and owns a piece of our hearts forever. Remembering when William first laid eyes on him, he was Chloe's 2nd born and only fawn and William claimed him that day. I, on the other hand was "oh no! We've got two and that's enough!" Then at six weeks our little Razzy had a neck injury and we had to keep him apart from the others.....well you know the rest of the story! He then became a moma's boy and for the last two years "Sophie's Razzy." I'm so glad he was a part of our lives. He has added so much joy and love to our family, if only for a little while.

Dec 23, 2005 - Oct 16, 2010

2010-10-17T14:31:00.000-04:00

2010 Flood

2010-10-03T18:55:00.005-04:00

They said it wouldn't happen for another hundred years. Guess they added one too many zero's to that estimate. We are very fortunate that it was not as bad as 99', but it was still bad. More than 100 homes and 40 businesses affected by the flooding.

William and Sophie looking in dismay towards SPencer's and Little Golden Skillet.

Looking towards Davis Ball Park and the Livermon Park and Zoo.

The view towards the zoo.......

A pike that didn't make it across Wakelon road as the water subsides.

The Traveling Circus!!

2010-09-22T09:33:00.002-04:00

Comes to Windsor again!!! We hung out at the park as we waited for Neenie to arrive. They were both already very excited when they saw the big tent as we passed it by. We got there in time to sit on the front row. I was thankful since they were both in their strollers. Kinda sad to think that was probably the last time we'd use it. Levi and Sophie's face lite up as the first act out was a very small little girl that honestly did look much bigger then the two of them!! Levi was so mesmerized that while Sophie was munching down some popcorn he would occasionally open his mouth for her to feed him!! Not taking his eye off the center ring. It was a good night!

September=Homeimprovements

2010-09-19T20:53:00.002-04:00

So we kept saying when it gets cooler we'll do this and that. Well it's here. Like every year when September arrives the nights get cooler, the pool gets closed, the life jackets put up, and all the water fun has come to an end. It's time to take a look at the to do list and get busy. This year we have more than normal on that list. There's some old rot by the back door and in the kitchen. Last weekend William replaced the seal and some rotten plywood by the back door and this weekend we started laying tile. Needless to say it's a back breaking job. By days end Saturday he was yet to lay the tile and his old back was already gone. Sunday, right after church my brother calls to see if we want to eat out with them and I ended up giving him the scoop on William, not wanting him to come and help. Just letting him know why we wouldn't be meeting up with him and that we were gonna just go slow in the utility room cause it was kicking his butt. Chris showed up anyway and by this evening our tile was laid! Tomorrow evening I can grout it and THAT will be done!! Now there's 250 sq feet of teak waiting to go down in the kitchen!! Wonder if we'll fit that into our September to do's......

Joy Unspeakable!!!!

2010-09-16T09:21:00.003-04:00

Indescribable!!!! Just two years ago today I held one of the most precious gifts the Lord can give...and she changed my life forever!

Remembering........

2010-09-11T21:40:00.003-04:00

Two years ago today we embarked on a journey to the other side of the world to graciously receive the child that the Lord had planned for us. Before she was born, before we were born, He knew the plans He had for us. And what a wonderful plan it is!! She is more than we could ever ask for. Her smile, her laugh, just the sound of her voice is pure delight. Lord, I thank you for all of your blessings, but the one I love the most just crawled into her bed, said her prayers, and fell soundly asleep!

Etiquette....Sophie Style

2010-08-18T09:08:00.002-04:00

So we're in US Cellular sitting at the desk "waiting" while another sales associate walks in the room. He looks at Sophie, "Well hello there beautiful." Sophie replies, "Hey. I'm getting new phone for daddy." "You are. Daddy will like that. What's your name?" "Names Sophie."" How old are you?" the salesman asked. "I'm TWO!" she replies. "Well, it is very nice to meet you." And at that moment Sophie reaches toward the gentleman, grabs his hand and shakes it! "You TOO!" Wow. How grown is she!

LIFE....Literally

2010-08-09T11:04:00.005-04:00

The past three days have gone by like a flash. Friday afternoon started it off with a call that sent emotions of fear and uncertainty down my spine. My uncle, Sophie's Poppy, had been in a terrible accident at work. He was working on a track machine knocking a pin in when it went in too far. The fellow on the other side takes the sledge hammer to knock it back in the other direction and a sliver of metal broke off and shot out like a bullet into Uncle Vernon's chest. Too make a long story short we are very blessed to have him with us today. He is still in the hospital, not completely out of the woods yet, because the metal went into his lung and it will cause more damage to remove it, so there is always risk of infection, BUT he looks sooo much better!! We hope to have him home Tuesday. It was another reminder of how quick things can change and just how fragile life is.

With spending so much time in Greenville we decided to take advantage of the tax free weekend. After THREE shoe stores, here is the result.....

And speaking of FRAGILE.....
Most of the time I prefer to get the good news first but that just wasn't the way it went down this weekend so that's the way I'm gonna blog it!!! But Friday's good news...well sometimes pictures are louder than words....

Introducing Miss Elizabeth (Lizzy) Ann Conner, born this 6th day of August 2010!

Peas and Carrots......

2010-08-05T11:37:00.001-04:00

Levi and Sophie had there second sleep over this week. This age can be so much fun, and it can also be challenging to say the least. Sophie is always excited to hear that her LALee's coming. She takes him his cup, pats him on the head, kinda mothering him if you will. Being stuck with mommy all the time, sharing is not her strong suit. And for some reason this time, everytime poor Levi went for something of hers she lost it. So instead of keeping each other occupied, I had to make sure they were taking turns, doing something constructive, or just being proactive in the sharing department by making their play consist of two of the same. After an early supper, they enjoyed making and eating their own oreo frosty's.

Afterward we took turns on the slide and in no time it was bath and bed time. The next morning Sophie woke up almost shouting, "Mommy, Lalee's in moma's bed!" She was so happy to see him still there in the morning. Then we all headed to PaPa's house for the day. That morning we stayed in with a little Micky Mouse.....

And by late morning they were water bound!!! With wrinkles in the near future they stayed out there until nap time. Oh to be a kid again:)

Family Fun on the Chowan!!

2010-08-04T13:31:00.004-04:00

We had alot going on over vacation. The latter part of it the whole family was invited to Uncle Vernon's for a good ole fashion get together. The food was awesome and Sophie and Levi enjoyed the river to the fullest. Those two LOVE anything water! We splashed and played by the shore while dinner was being prepared. And for dessert homemade chocolate and banana ice cream. YUMMY!! Believe it or not after we got our stomach full we played some volleyball, horse shoes, and some other game which was new to me. We all had a blast, adults and kids alike. We should make that an annual event!!! Til next time............

The Decker Family

2010-07-19T11:53:00.008-04:00

We were so excited to find out that the Decker family was vacationing close enough for us to do a day trip this year. I wish I had my camera on me when we drove up into the parking lot and the whole clan was there to greet us. And what a warm welcome it was! It was so nice to finally meet Tannor and Jordan in person. They are two very amazing young men! And Miss Haleigh and Miss Savannah have changed sooooo much in just a couple of years. You see the pictures on the blog, but seeing them right in front of you. It's just amazing. I know Brian and Melinda are very proud of their children. All four are wonderful, well mannered kids that really seem to have their feet on the ground, which honestly, you just don't see alot of now. Anyway, back to our visit. When we got there we all quickly agreed that Micky D's was the first thing we needed to do. I think all the kids were ready to eat. Savannah and Sophie started warming up to each other while trading silly bands back and forth. Silly bands now have a new meaning to me. For some reason every time Savannah passed it back to Sophie. Sophie would just laugh like it was the funniest thing ever. After lunch we hit the play ground. Swinging and sliding, even in the rain the girls had a blast.

Next it was time for some water fun and since mother nature wanted to be hard to get along with that day, we hit the indoor pool. Swimming and splashing, the girls had a blast. Savannah started to get a little "sleepy tired" and it looked like the rain was gonna let up so we headed to the beach to kinda perk Savannah up and hit some waves, but that only lasted a short while as mother nature struck again!

Then it was back to the condo for some indoor play time and spaghetti for dinner! It was so nice and relaxing to sit back and talk while the kids played. We took our niece Taylor with us and she loves kids. (wants to teach) And they love her. I was surprised at how quickly Savannah seemed to take to her. While we were inside Savannah and Sophie caught the huggin' bug. They were so cute. Wish we had gotten more pictures and honestly we tried but they just wouldn't stay still long enough. Savannah also gave Sophie some cute gifts while we were there. One is the BFF shirt you see them wearing in the picture. Another was a bucket and shovel for a little beach time that we weren't able to get in BUT there's always next year! Anyway, this morning Sophie grabbed her bucket, got in the truck, and this is kinda how it went. " Moma, I'm gonna see Vannah, ok." Notice the period, not a question mark. "Not today baby. We have to go to PaPa's today." Then Sophie replays with a "Oh no. There's no Vannah at Papa's." and pointing to her bucket. "We need sand!" Needless to say, one day was just not enough for Miss Sophie!! The time just flew by. I'm looking forward to our next visit! We feel very blessed to be able to keep in touch with some of our travel buddies. There is honestly a bond there like no other. Until next time..........

A Sleep Over!!!

2010-07-17T10:12:00.002-04:00

Levi stayed with us last Friday. It was his first time away from his mommy and daddy all night and Sophie first time having someone spend the night with her. (other than the older kids) After Sophie finally got used to sharing her toys:) Those two had a blast. I forgot to take the camera out until the very end.......

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Need some help with that daddy?

Yaaaa!!! Here we go.

Bye Bye Moma!

Vacation????

2010-07-12T12:50:00.004-04:00

I guess that's what you call it. We didn't really stay anywhere this year, but we sure were on the go. We went tubing on the Cashie on the 3rd. Sophie and Levi both loved it. That evening we all went to the river center for the Independence Day festivities where Miss Sophie entertained us with her dance moves. The firework display was the bomb, but she still didn't care for them this year. Sunday we had hamburgers and hot dogs by the pool. Monday we cruised to Nags Head. We hit the beach that morning and spent the afternoon shopping. Tuesday we went down to Poppy's on the Chowan River and Wednesday it was back to the Kid's Marble Museum. Shewww... Next year we are going SOMEWHERE!!!! ANYWHERE!!! No really, I had a blast. Just a little worn out from all that vacationing....in addition to receiving a heartbreaking report on Razz that I may post more about later. But until then, let me get some pictures up here.

Father's Day

2010-06-21T12:53:00.005-04:00

Not sure where to start...Let's just say there were things the past week or so that reminded me of how blessed I am. I mean, I've always felt that way, but life is so fast and time just slides by. Then something seems to jump out behind life's curtain and gives you this huge jerk. It tells you to slow down, take the time to hug him, thank him, let him know how much you love him. That you appreciate those nights he stayed up until you got home or those long talks explaining why I can't do "something" that everyone else is doing. He always made me feel safe, loved, and even respected. He was stern. But now more than ever I realize that that discipline, unconditional love, and respect, is what made me the responsible adult that I like to think I am today. Thank you Daddy!!

Now, with that said, here is a picture of the present Sophie made her wonderful daddy and papa for Father's Day! She LOVED painting the buckets. We'll have to so more crafts like this one.

THE UPSIDE DOWN PEPPER PLANT!!!

Uncle Charlie's Birthday

2010-06-19T20:28:00.002-04:00

What can I say.....we had a blast!!

Just Playing Around....

2010-06-06T21:43:00.006-04:00

Sophie had her favorite little fella over for the day. That morning they spent their time on the slide, watering (drowning) flowers, and splashing in the kiddie pool. Then it was inside for the ultimate hot dog and mac'n cheese lunch!!! Elmo joined them at the table and Levi really got a kick out of that. Next I enjoyed a hour nap.......NOT!! But they did. And they woke up to Mr. Mike and Mrs. Nicole splashing with their "big" boys in the "big" pool.
This was Sophie's first time back in deep water. We put her swimmee's on and she was off! At the end of last year she was jumping from the steps and swimming under the water. Right now she doesn't want to go under at all! Hopefully that will change after a couple of weekends. Levi hated the arm things, but by the end of the evening, his mommy came up and convinced him otherwise:)

Did I forget to mention that Daddy finally added the swing portion to the play area.....

Happy Dance!!

2010-06-03T19:09:00.004-04:00

Let me set it up....I'm in the kitchen, on the phone and getting ready for supper. Sophie walks in with her diaper in her hand. So I go get another one, she sees it in my hand and proceeds to explain, "Moma, I don't want it." " You wanna potty," I reply, as I'm directing her to the bathroom. She happily sits on it for a couple of minutes actually, but we got nothing. So I decide to leave her unclothed and take the potty into the living room. Back to the kitchen I return to continue with supper. After only a few minutes, I hear a loud squeal and little feet pounding on the floor as Sophie so ecstatically runs into the kitchen holding her potty in hand, "look mommy, look!!! I did it! I did it!!" I was sooo proud! What a mommy moment!

Memorial Day at the Beach

2010-05-31T19:01:00.002-04:00

It was calm, the water clear, and Miss Sophie had no fear!!!

We ended the day with pork ribs on the grill and Sophie in the kiddie pool!!! Gotta love those three day weekends!

May Moments

2010-05-28T19:08:00.006-04:00

During our visit(and you can check out more pics on their blog) with the Morgan's last weekend, Alyson kinda got on me about not keeping my blog uploaded with the last and greatest Sophie moments!! So here's a few from the past few weeks.....

Sophie and PaPA on the tractor...RIDE is one of her favorite things to do!!

Cracking up on some Elmo.

So instead of taking a picture of Sophie. She wanted me to take one of her babies. Their names??? LaLee and Soshee!! How cute is that......

And here they are watching some Elmo!

I took this one this afternoon. Just a little water fun. Probably one more week before the big pool is ready. My ph is crazy off this year:(

Felt Like Family

2010-05-22T19:05:00.007-04:00

We just had the best visit with the Morgan's!! In one moment it seemed like only yesterday that we were sitting on the 30th floor having a bit of cheese and wine, trying to relax and unwind. And in the next watching those girls play and carry on, it was amazing to see how much they've changed. AA was a little timid at first, but it didn't take long for curiosity to take over. And Sophie was slow go at first too. She was just waking up from her nap when they pulled up. It took her a little longer but as you can see in the pictures she quickly became very fond of the Morgans. Even Ford and normally she's very timid with the males. The girls seemed to really hit it off. Laughing, running, even watching them eat!!! I loved it! Thank you guys so much for dropping in. Hopefully next year we'll be in your neck of the woods.

TTO Surgery

2010-05-09T18:23:00.011-04:00

This post will be added to daily for the next few weeks.....

I have decided to create a new blog for razz... Razz's TTO Recovery

When we took Razz to NCSU this week I was under the impression that they performed TTA's. Actually they do TTO's. They have been doing those for the past four years. It is a combination between the more popular TPLO and TTA. The TPLO has been around longer. Anyway after studying the two later, I felt good about the TTA. When I heard the "O" at the end I was a little nervous. I had not compared the three. But forward we went. I came home and googled TTO's. They did give me a brief history lesson at the Vet School, but I need to see it for myself. TTO's started in Australia in 1997 and NCSU had been doing them for four years and average 200 procedures a year.

Day One Postop.....
Got home that evening around six. He could not get up the steps by his self at all. William and Charlie carried him up. Had he not been standing up so much on the way home he might have handled it better. Note to self, if I every have to travel that far home with a dog after surgery, we'll drive something other than the sport trac. I was not able to keep him on a down stay in the back of the truck. He was hungry. He did not eat for them at all. I controlled his amount the first night because I didn't want him getting sick. He did poop and pee as soon as he got home.

Day Two Postop....
Not eating very good this morning. There's lot of swelling around the ankle and foot. I'm using ice packs for 15 minutes three to four times a day. We are using a sling to help him walk and go up and down steps.
He ate better this evening. Swelling is still bad around hock (ankle) and bruising is a little worse.

Day Three Postop.....(Mother's Day)
Still not eating that great. Although he did have another bowel movement this morning. We haven't seem to have any problem in that department. Still a little wobbly on the steps. Swelling on the hock is still bad. Ate good this evening. Still doing ice packs.

Day Four .....
Half day at work. Gave him a sedative. Hope that helped. Up until today WIlliam has been taking Razz out. Now that he's at work, I'm taking over. I was nervous this morning because Razz seems to still be a little wobbly. We did very well this morning and afternoon. He sleep today from 12:30 until 6:30 which was our next outing. He did not want to put any weight on that side this evening. He did not eat much at all today.....

Day Five.....Another half day at work. He sooo doesn't like to be left alone. I cooked a ham yesterday and he ate some of that this morning. Swelling has gone down, but again this morning he is not putting weight on that foot!! Shew, I'm ready to see huge steps FORWARD in this recovery process...

Marble's Kids Museum

2010-05-06T15:28:00.004-04:00

Yesterday was like a roller coaster. With Sophie and I both being very upset about leaving Razz, he had such a sad look on his face. We were at the vet school most of the morning and it was very exhausting, physically and emotionally. BUT around 1ish we got some grub and heading to the Museum. It was awesome. Sophie had a blast. Her curious nature took us from one area to the next. Pushing buttons, climbing ladders, and walls. We could have stayed all day. And like they say, pictures are worth a thousand words.......

Wordless Wednesday

2010-04-07T08:55:00.000-04:00

My Sweet Sophie

2010-03-17T14:17:00.003-04:00

It seems like there's always something to do or somewhere to be. It's almost April and I'm wondering where the first part of the year went. Ironically when we were waiting for our daughter, time seemed to stand still and although the pain of that wait has faded. I still remember thinking "will next month ever get here!" Now that she is home and safe in our arms it feels as if she grows an inch a day! My baby is talking, dressing herself, runs her own bathwater, tells the customers "thank you" as they walk out the door, reminds us to pray before EVERY meal, my baby is growing up. I want soo much to slow time down. To memorize every moment. Every smile, every new discovery. She came home Friday after a visit with Poppy and moma had rearrange her room. When she walked in the room you would have thought it was Christmas morning. "WOW,......wow!" looking around and then another "wow!!!" Then last week I asked her for a kiss. She declined. While I covered my face and acted sad. Sophie responded with her head turned "what's wrong moma? You need blankie." Oh my heart melted. It melts every single day. Everyday her smile warms my soul. She is truly amazing.

Another One of those Catching Up Kinda Post

2010-03-13T20:28:00.006-05:00

We've been busy with birthdays, painting, trying to get the yard cleaned up. So much to so this time of year. We took Sophie to her cousins 13th birthday party a few weeks ago. Complete with disco lights and a DJ. Shy Sophie.....ooops did I say shy. After all of ten minutes she was right in the middle of the dance floor, talkin' bout "com' on!" She didn't get that from her moma! Needless to say she had a blast and was quite the entertainer. And after going to Levi's party the week before she knew what the birthday cake was all about and was very persistent on getting her piece. And then last weekend was her daddy's birthday. We've just been doing it up the last few weeks:)

Since it looks like I'll be having surgery at the end of the month, I've also made this "what I want done before...." kinda list. I finished painting the bedroom up stairs last week, cleaned out Sophie's closet, raked out the flower beds, moved that crape myrtle, and some other little odds and ends on the list. The main thing I'd like to get done now is fresh mulch in the flower beds. We are praying the physicians can take care of everything by laproscopy, if not I'm looking at six weeks recovery time instead of two. So just in case, I want to get those things done that would drive me crazy otherwise. Not being able to pick Sophie up is gonna be hard enough:(
And of course as requested pictures of my darling daughter.

Our Family Weekend

2010-02-15T14:23:00.004-05:00

Last weekend started off with Saturday morning snowball fights and slippery snowy slides. That afternoon we took off to "order" our Chinese New Year feast. Didn't have the time to do it myself this year, but none the less it was delish. So much food. We try a different wine every year. It was not to my liking this year, but then again, I'm just not much on the stuff anyway. Uncle Charlie was in agreement! Sunday it was off to church with some nascar in the afternoon. Sophie so enjoyed hearing mommy and daddy hollering at the TV! She quickly joined in! It was a hoot. As far as Valentines Day, William and I have always celebrated it the same simple way...quality time and reflection. A couple of years before Sophie came home to us we started getting chocolate covered fortune cookies. That is now a new tradition for valentines. Sophie made her daddy a card too!

Our Jan 2010 Snow

2010-02-06T09:03:00.005-05:00

Last weekend we had a nice little snow storm come through. I don't think we've seen that much in about ten years, give or take a few. William pulled the old car hood out. Of course since it hadn't been used in quite some time, it needed a little TLC, but was soon to become Sophie's favorite ride. While he was working on that we played on the plastic sled that Nana bought her when we were in Tennessee. I'd put her on the top of that little hill in our front yard and she would actually go half way across the yard before she stopped! It really amazed me how much she loved the stuff. After about 4 hours of it, I still brought her in the house kicking and screaming. None the less, we had three good days of quality family time. Snowmen, sledding, snowball fights, snow cream, and a smiling baby girl....heaven.

2010-01-26T16:07:00.001-05:00

While Daddy's Away........

2010-01-15T20:55:00.001-05:00

The girls will play!

Structure and Planning

2010-01-14T12:00:00.002-05:00

OK...Starting off the New Year on a different note. Structure, schedule's, planning ahead, not really my thing. But it seems with so much on my plate I need some kind of schedule just to help me remember what it is I want to accomplish each day. (much less what I need to accomplish) Sophie is of course at the top of that list. Being with me 24/7 gets her lots of mommy time....but not enough quality mommy time. That is my number one WANT. To make sure she is learning and having fun doing it. And yes there's work....and things will be relaxed enough to handle that. Just need to keep focused. I'll continue to post once or twice a month, but that will be the extent of it. Short little peaks into the window of our life...Speaking of which, Sophie is really picking up on things. Each day learning new animals or shapes. We are having a hard time with colors, but I haven't worked on it diligently enough. So guess that's mommy's fault. Oh yeah, she can count to five. "one, two, threeeeeee, FIVE!" gotta squeeze four in there girl! And she works "please" like a pro! There's the January 2010 update:)

Rambling...

2010-01-03T20:50:00.003-05:00

Pulled out the old scrap book today. I really need to get back to work on that. Looking at how much Sophie has grown over the past year is astonishing. That shy little baby face has turned into a very friendly and busy little toddler. And wow what a busy little girl she's been. Birthday parties, trips to the beach, I think we went to like three Easter egg hunts last year and that's not including the one we had at our house. She loved her Tumbling Tots class and we'll start back this week with that. December was just so crazy busy that I saw no need to add anything extra to it. I think I could use some B12 shots for a little energy booster:)
Now that Christmas has come and gone it seems I'm having a harder time keeping up with Sophie's "stuff" in the living room. She doesn't want to play in her room. She drags it all in there. I don't blame her. That's where everybody else is after all. And she just has to be in the center of it. I'm looking forward to the new year and all the new twists and turns that come with it. Seems like things are always changing or there's always something new I want Sophie to see, try, or do. Wonder if she'll ever know or understand how deep I love her. I want her to experience life to the fullest. I guess she will get it one day....when she becomes a mother.

Christmas

2009-12-30T12:14:00.007-05:00

It's a good thing I had the video camera on when she came into the living room. Her face lit up in pure delight. Santa had brought her very own kitchen. The frying pan fries, the pot boils, and the coffee pot peculates. It was total business after the initial reaction. She (re)cooked her sausage balls, had egg nog in her cup, bacon in the plate. This was suppose to be a pretend thing, right....no daddy puts REAL food in there and precedes to tell mommy, "it's Christmas and she's suppose to make messes." So messes she made and mommy just cleaned it up:) There were still presents under the tree and she could care less. Around 10 we got her dress and took her outside to see what daddy had been working on so much. Oh yeah. THaT was a major hit as well. From walking inside the little house to sliding down her slide and doing the happy dance! It was a thrill to watch her every emotion. She totally crashed that afternoon, but we had so much company that day she only got an hour in and was NOT in a very good mood for our evening festivities...BUT it is WONDERFUL being a mother. THat is the best CHristMas present ever! I'll have to post more later on our Gatlinburg Adventure! I have always wanted to spend CHristmas in the mountains. IT was SOOO much fun.

What A TRIP!!!

2009-12-23T19:04:00.000-05:00

Adventure from start to finish. We pulled out of Murray's parking lot on a Friday evening at 6:00 only to start what was to be one of the most unforgetable road trips ever!! We knew it was gonna snow. We knew we'd start seeing it in just a couple of hours, but I was not prepared for the intenisty of what I was going to witness...CaRS, CarS, and more CARS on the side of the road!!!! We made it as far as Statesville that night. Stayed with some family up there. ( THank God for Family)
Got up the next morning to start on the road again. There were cars, SUV's, Tractor trailer trucks abandoned everywhere. Evidentally I am heart healthy...cause if I was gonna have a heartattack anytime soon it would have been then! Snow, ice, curvey roads....DETOUR!!! Now I knew about the rock slide on 40 ,but with all the ice and snow the park way was closed too. WOW what a detour.....HOURS later we arrived at our cabin.
Let me tell ya bout this cabin. See I took my time, booked the perfect cabin for our little family getaway. I even though about the chance of snow there and everything. Well, two days before our trip they had a maintenance issue and I had to quickly pick another cabin from a very short list. To make a long story short, this thing was on the side of the mountain. If you met another car...omg, not good and very twisty and steep. Now let's add snow and ice to it. Tore my nerves all to peices.
Plus poor Levi was so sick. Took him to the doc on our second day up there! So I bet your wondering if we'd do it again.......YEP!!! Home 20 minutes and Chris and I are already talking about it:)
I had a ball! We woke up to more snow the first day there. Had Christmas with Nana and then off that afternoon to the beautiful streets of Gatlinburg. Time flies when you're having fun! The next day we hit the aquarium in the morining. They both seemed to really enjoy it. The afternoons always included a nap and afterwards that day we were off to the Dixie Stampede Christmas Show. How I wish I could have taken pictures in there. The expressions on Sophie's face was priceless. She was soooo intriged! Totally worth it. Our last day there, we did some shopping, Santa Land, amuzement park, and back to Gatlinburg to see the lights at night! Needless to day it was a packed day, but I loved it!
The ride home went much smoother and you know how it is when you've been gone a little while.....there's no place like home!

2009-12-23T18:15:00.000-05:00

The Birthday Bash!

2009-12-16T13:22:00.002-05:00

Sophie was a jewel....Shared her cake with Levi...Loved the bounce house...Just an overall awesome party!

Rambling....

2009-12-12T10:16:00.003-05:00

I know I've said it over and over, but it's so true...time flies by. She's already two. How did that happen. She tells me what she wants, she picks out her shoes and coat for the day, she prefers tea, loves brocolli, likes to scribble, says "I love you.", and knows what it means. She is smart as a whip, picks up on things very easily, likes to turn the lights on and off, picks her toys up, puts her coat in her room when we get home in the afternoon. She's the best little helper, smiles all the time. Lord THANK YOU. She is simply amazing.....

Decking the Halls!

2009-11-29T19:00:00.006-05:00

Sophie helping Daddy with the lights.....

William was up til 1:00am putting up lights! There was lots of coffee consumed.

See the deer up in the trees. Good thing we had a bunch of teenagers this weekend. They did stop and help William get them up there. (the rest of the time they were possum kicking)

Let's end this post with a picture of my favorite girl!

Thanksgiving Weekend Pictures

2009-11-28T21:33:00.000-05:00

The Pumpkin Banana Pie and Pumpkin Tart! The Pie turned out really well. William did an excellent job on the meringue! The tart, lots of holiday flavor, but i don't think I'll be doing that one again.

Sophie, Levi, and Grandaddy with their bellies full!

Sophie pushes way faster than the battery will take him. And I think they both like faster.

Sophie was mesmerized by the tree. Carefully checking out all the different ornaments. Even the ones tucked deep into the tree.

Finally finished the tree this evening.....It's 9:30 and William's on his second pot of coffee, still in the yard putting up lights....

Thanksgiving and Grandmothers

2009-11-25T21:25:00.005-05:00

It's our second Thanksgiving with our daughter. A year has already gone by. This one a little different from the last. She's more aware of "something" going on. Today was wonderful. I loved that Sophie was so into the cooking scene. From the candied yams to the chocolate chess pie. And after her first bite of pie she looks at me and says..."ummmm, goooood." I loved watching my mom cook in the kitchen when I was small. It all just brings back lots of memories.
I have so much to be thankful for....so much. Man, I wish my grandmother was still here. She and Sophie would enjoy each other so much. She taught me so many things coming up, always into etiquette, kept up with the latest fashions, made sure I used correct English. She would cringe at some of the stuff I've picked up over the past few years. She was a caregiver...a very good one. She took joy in taking care of her family. ALL her family. She loved the holidays and made them seem like a Christmas Movie. Table nicely set, delicious food, dressed to the "T". I miss her very much. I am so grateful for the influence she had over my life. Without her, I'm really not sure who I'd be today. She was a very strong women. One that I am very proud to call MY Imogene!!!

Toto

2009-11-17T20:41:00.004-05:00

Sophie's love for her razzies (dogs) is alot stronger than I had realized. Our Razz loves my little Sophie. Chloe could care less and Sampson is still not very comfortable around her...probably related to the fact that I just am a little weary of the last two myself so they are not around her like Razz. They are older and not really used to children. Sophie of course loves them all. Last week Chloe did have yet another surgery on her toe. We got her there early, waited for the techs to come from the back to get her. Chloe was under foot as I was holding Sophie in my arms. Everyone was of course talking about how cute baby girl was and then it happened. Sophie had every one of those girls tearing up and the tech keep apologizing as he took Chloe to the back....Sophie had a total melt down...where were they going with her razzie!!! So after a few moments she gain composier and she was all smiles again.(Chloe is home and needs our prayers as her toe is not healing very well)
Sunday night Sophie got her jammas on and cuddled on the couch with moma for some Wizard of Oz. She was mesmerized! Really into it. Then came the part were the mean old lady was taking Toto away from Dorothy and Dorothy was sooo upset. WELL, so was Sophie she turned to me crying and put her face in my chest. William and I were amazed. I got her to turn and see the part where Toto jumps out of the basket and runs back to Dorothy. That made her feel alot better....and of course I let her watch the munchkins but after that it was time for bed. (That wicked old witch gave me nightmares when I was small.) Anyway, the girl LOVES her razzies.

He Is SOOOO Cute!

2009-11-15T19:08:00.001-05:00

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Love MY Weekend!

2009-11-09T09:12:00.003-05:00

This weekend went by waaaayy too fast. Saturday was incredible. Last year we took Sophie with us....to see Santa. This year we went by ourselves. Anyone who knows me, knows how much I Love Christmas. Bing Crosby, Nat King Cole, cooking in the kitchen, family and friends, decorating to the "T". (William hates Bing btw, but he puts up with it for me.) I love it ALL. And now to have Sophie with us, it's just completes us. There's so much I want to teach her. I want her to know where the "Christmas spirit" is found. Not under a tree or in a stocking, but in family and friends. Jesus Christ is the one and only reason for the season. And without Him, what are we celebrating? And with Him....oh the joy that is found. I'm sooo looking forward to our trip this year. Hoping to make lots of memories. I'm sure we will.....
Back to Saturday, after finishing our Christmas List, we had a nice dinner and then went to see The Christmas Carol in 3D. I was sooo disappointed. However, since we had not been to the Theater since we were DATING, the experience was AweSOMe!!! I'm ready to go back to see like an action movie of something. It was so cool. Plus being in the back of the cinema with my dear husband did bring back some memories...maybe we'll get a chance to go again before another decade passes.....

China Adopt Talk

2009-11-03T12:35:00.001-05:00

Check out all the beautiful babies at China Adopt Talk. Thing One and Thing Two are way cute!

A Little Fall Fun!

2009-11-01T12:05:00.001-05:00

One hand it the pumpkin and it was all over.... Sophie had to have a spoon! Afterwards we cooked her seeds. She really liked that.

Getting ready to go out for the evening.

Last stop before going home to try to wash all that glitter off!

I WON!!!!

2009-10-30T12:27:00.003-04:00

How cool...never won anything before. I entered a few giveaways last week and to my surprise I won a $100 gift certificate to Invites BY Jen from the Etsy Wedding Team. She's VERY talented and the invitations are beautiful and personal. I believe we have a few years yet before Little Miss can use it. Know anyone getting married?

Give Aways!!

2009-10-23T12:47:00.003-04:00

Lot's of cool giveaways this month!There are a few at http://etsygiveaways.blogspot.com And check out Celebrating Everyday Life for their handmade dress giveaway.

Little Miss Independence

2009-10-14T21:28:00.004-04:00

Let me help you with that bowl moma.

Would you like some more tea?

I can do it.

Today's Pics

2009-10-07T19:06:00.000-04:00

A Catch Up Post.

2009-10-06T13:49:00.005-04:00

Fall is such a busy time of year. There's festivals and fairs to be attended. Pumpkin patches to be visited, and wonderful, glorious cool evenings to enjoy! Our daughter has kept us very busy this fall. (good busy) She helped mommy plant the rye grass this year and get the front porch decorated. She loves being my little helper and even reminds me to tell her thank you after she's handed me something. I'm ready to see what she'll think about getting all that gook out of the pumpkin. She's growing leaps and bounds. WAAAAY to fast! But watching her say a word for the first time, learn a new trick, or just see something that tickles her, man it's an amazing thing. She pretty much grabs your hand now and leads you where she wants, tells me to sit, move, or come on. The "lov u's" are just the best thing ever and I can't get enough of that smile. It really does light up a room. I am just sooo grateful. She's doing great in the toddler bed. That is such a blessing. She cried out twice last night but didn't get up, went right back to sleep. What a big girl she's becoming......(sigh)

Another Milestone

2009-09-23T12:04:00.002-04:00

For the past week Sophie has not been sleeping all night. At first, I thought it was those teeth that were waking her up and it just evolved into some bad sleeping habits. When she woke up, I would give her some Tylenol and put her in the bed with US. She would lay there wide awake tossing and turning. After a couple of hours of that I'd take her back to her room where she would either play in her crib for a while or cry herself to sleep. A few nights ago I decided something had to change, so instead of putting her in the bed with us, I put a mattress on her floor and laid by her crib. This seemed to work alot better. Well, last night after William took her to bed, she started crying. So he decided to leave the door OPEN to her room wondering if maybe that would help. She seemed to have fallen asleep. (this is about 9ish) We were in the living room watching one of those movies that just made you mad. And about 10ish we started hearing a "bump,bump". Real quite like, every couple of minutes. Earlier we heard a "THUMP", but thats normal in my house at night. I mean, usually Razz is getting his bed ready upstairs or something...no big deal. And the bumps, we just tossed that up to Sampson wagging his tail in his sleep. Then all of the sudden I see William JUMP out of his chair like he had seen a ghost....a very small one! Yep, that's right Sophie has now crawled out of the crib! Funny thing is she was standing in the hall with blanky in hand for like ten minutes...when William got up she didn't move..I think knew she was suppose to be in bed but just couldn't figure out how to get back in there! Oh...I LOVE being a parent!

A Day at the Fair!

2009-09-20T08:24:00.001-04:00

Qian Jiang Jian!

2009-09-18T21:13:00.003-04:00

ONE YEAR LATER.........

Celebrating this past week.....

2009-09-18T20:21:00.003-04:00

Sophie just loved the circus. The first picture was taken before it started. She was taking it all in, wondering what in the world we were doing. The first act were dogs and that just set the mood for the entire evening..clapping, laughing, jumping, pointing. SHE was a thrill a minute. Can't wait to see her reaction at a "real" circus. This was one of those small traveling ones, but I'd take her again in a heartbeat....we might be seeing one at the fair tomorrow.

The next day she enjoyed making her cake, and later that evening eating it. Thursday we had our last placement visit with Mrs. Susan. Everything went great. I sure wish we had her in the beginning. She just makes you feel at ease r from the time she enters your door. Tomorrow...pending William feeling better, we are hoping to go to the fair in VA. Different kinda fair for me. They've got lawn mower racing, rooster crowing contest, puppet shows, a small circus, bull riding...man I could go on and on....sure hope we make it.......

Conference Room

2009-09-16T09:00:00.000-04:00

It's so hard to believe a year has already passed. We have had sooo many "firsts" in this last year, so much to celebrate. But September will always be special to me. For me it was the first time ever on a plane, first time out of the country, first time getting air sick......first time being a mother!
I was so nervous. There were so many "what if's" running through my mind. I mean come on ....after THREE years of waiting for this precious child. It was finally happening. As we were anxiously sitting in that big ol' conference room waiting for that angelic face to peak through the door I can remember thinking do I have everything, bottle, thermos, gifts, envelopes, toy....will she be crying and scared or quite and shut down. You see I had done alot of reading in those looong three years and of course the worse case scenario's stick in your mind. As we are trying to listen to our guide Marie instruct us on how to fix their bottles...her cell phone rings. "Some of the babies are here." Here, really, where! The next thirty minutes felt like hours! I can vividly remember Alyzabeth An coming through the door. The look on her mommy and daddy's face was indescribable joy....I can still see them giving AA that adorable doll. Next a few more start to trickle in, oh wow the emotions in that room were just overwhelming. Finally, there she was! Her group trying to get into the crowded door way, while I was fighting my urge to go grab her. Thank goodness for the awesome families we traveled with, for by that time I was not even thinking about our first moments being captured on tape, I just wanted her in my arms. Then I heard it "Qian Jiang Jian's parents!" Music to my ears. My nervousness faded as this beautifully happy little soul was placed in my arms. Her personality shining through. My heart's ache was finally healed. She completed us! Some of the happiest tears ever were shed in that room that day.
This month as I relic those days over and over. I am so thankful to those wonderful families we traveled with. As we stood there in that conference room with these people we had just met. We made connects that day will last a lifetime. With everyone going through their own little moments, it was still not hard to get a smile or a knock on the door. (that coke was sooo good) I miss you all sooo much. The experience of a lifetime!

Redirecting

2009-09-08T09:54:00.003-04:00

Humm...how do I start. I've been seeking the Lord's will. I have to be obedient. Still, so I can hear. Is that my will or yours?
Small things....today, out of a bookshelf full of books, my daughter hands me a book, already turned to the page she wants me to read.....Chapter One page 17... FOR THE PARENTS WHO CHOOSE A CHILD. I began to read, tears filled my eyes. This was not a book about adoption, but yet she hands me this book turned to the only page that addresses it. This is NOT the first of many small things as of late. I would like to have more children...so is this Him or me. It's been almost a year since I held my precious daughter for the first time. She is everything I could have ever asked for. So is He telling me that I have another child out there? Or is it me? I guess time and prayer will answer that question.

Wonderful Weekend

2009-09-07T14:14:00.002-04:00

This weekend started off....lets just say with alot. Sophie spent Friday evening with her Uncle Vernon, which whom she has totally wrapped. He introduced her to her first battery operated bike...don't have any pictures yet, but she got the hang of it really quick from what I hear. (do we have a future motocross pro on our hands)Then after only 3 hours of sleep, it was time to get up for our yard sale. So I get up at 5am and NO water!!! Our pump burnt up and we have one of those systems where our central heat and air runs off water....no wonder it was so hot in the house that night. Anyway Mr. Termite was there in a flash, he is just awesome! And a new pump and tank is in our future. Back to the yard sale....good turn out, spent more than I made, well worth it. Sophie is sporting just one of our many finds that morning. (thank you Penny!)Got home around 1:00, jumped in the pool for a couple of hours. That evening we attended Brandon's fourth birthday party. Sophie had a ball. Sunday was church in the morning, with a relaxing afternoon. And today....home cleaning, watched Miracle of 34th Street, and just enjoying the day. Hope everyone had a wonderful weekend.