TwoGuys&AGal

Our little vacation to the mountains...

2009-10-26T18:44:00.000-07:00

Ty, Nathan and I took off on our first "official" family vacation! We left Prattville Thursday morning and headed to Pigeon Forge. October is such a beautiful month with the leaves changing and the air nice and cool. I was so excited to get to go! Apparently, other people had the same idea.. there were SOOOOO many people there!! We stayed up late Thursday swimming in the heated pool at the hotel and slept through breakfast Friday. We then ventured into downtown Gatlinburg (a 10 mile drive that took about an hour!) to hit the #1 rated Aquarium. It was a very nice place and Nathan loved seeing all the different kinds of fish. After the aquarium we spent several hours just walking around seeing all the different shops and eating some marvelous yummies. Staying up late again Friday night caused us to miss breakfast Saturday morning too. Saturday was "my day" to spend and what better way than at the Old Mill district. It's such a neat area.. my favorite around. We had lunch and hit all the little shops, watching them make candy and pottery and seeing all sorts of beautiful artwork. We had lunch and dinner at the Old Mill restaurant. =) If you have never been ~ go!! It's DIVINE!! The corn chowder and corn fritters are off the chain! Saturday night we played putt-putt. Talk about fun! Ty and I haven't played in so long and it was nice to be taken aback. We played some arcade games and went out for ice cream. Saturday night we didn't stay up as late because we knew Sunday was the drive home. Nathan slept horrible that night. He kept waking up crying and saying it was time to get up so we didn't miss breakfast!! He was determined weren't going to miss it for the 3rd time in a row! HA!! We took him to eat at the Applewood Farmhouse Restaurant. Yum! Apple Fritters!! We began the venture home along with all our souveniers and the extra 20 lbs we gained! =) Enjoy the pictures ~

Pink EYES!

2009-07-30T19:05:00.000-07:00

A trip to Georgia to move all our household goods wouldn't be complete without a 103.2 fever! We woke up Tuesday morning ready to start packing and Nathan walked in burning up. He ran fever all day but it wasn't until around 4:30 that it spiked to over 103. I began to worry but kept him on Tylenol/Motrin through the night. The next morning the fever was gone but both his eyes were so crusty and yucky looking. I called the doctor that he use to see when we lived there and got him in asap. It was confirmed that he has pink eyes in BOTH eyes. Poor guy. He was pretty miserable Wednesday. I guess it's uncomfortabe and itchy. While we were waiting and waiting and waiting some more in the doctor's office (which, by the way, Nathan was NOT happy about being there in the first place) he said, "Mommy, the doctor is not coming, let's just leave." HA! I know his frustrations!

Nathan's birthday!

2009-07-30T14:56:00.000-07:00

It's so hard to believe that 4 years have gone by since I first held Nathan in my arms. I knew from the very beginning I loved him and he was going to be a joy in my life but what I didn't know was how much more that love and joy would expound over the years of having him. I can't imagine my life without this little guy.

Nathan 1 day old:

Nathan 1 year old: Nathan 2 years old:

Nathan 3 years old:

Nathan 4 years old:

Thanks to all of you who came to his party. I know Nathan really enjoyed having all his friends here. These parties are getting fun for me too! :) Here are a few pics of his big day!

Happy Birthday Ty!

2009-07-01T17:13:00.000-07:00

Today we celebrated Ty's 28th birthday. I love him more and more every day but today I sat back and thought of why I love him so much. Ty, thank you for ALL you do for Nathan and for me. I thank God for you choosing me to spend the rest of your life with. I thank God for the man you have become and for the love and the tenderness you so generously pour out every day. I wish I could be more like you... to be able to have the patience you have and the positive attitude you carry and your one of a kind outgoing personality. You are love by so many but no one as much as me. You are a wonderful husband and father. I look forward to many many more birthday celebrations with you! You are my world and I love you for being you!

Simmons' Lawn Care, LLC

2009-06-25T18:55:00.000-07:00

If anyone is in need of a few good guys to take care of your lawn I know of 2!

Look at how hard this little guy works!! He'll make sure the job gets done right.

And... he goes behind to make sure every little blade of grass is cut.

Here's the look you'll get if you don't pay up!!! :)

GERD & HERNIA...

2009-06-04T12:59:00.001-07:00

I've been feeling a bit under the weather lately having pains in the upper region of my stomach. That's where I was having pains when I was diagnosed with stomach ulcers so I thought they were back in action. I knew the pain wasn't as intense but thought I should get it checked out anyway. I made a doctor's appointment and was SO glad when the day arrived so I could get some relief. I gave them a sample of my blood, they took x-rays, found out that I'm anemic and scheduled me for an endoscopy. I had the endoscopy yesterday (Wednesday). The doctor told us that my stomach was ulcer free but I did have a hiatal hernia (where the stomach invades part of the esophagus)and 33% of my esophagus was ate up with acid from acid reflux. I guess that's where the pain is coming from. I received a call from the doctor's office with my blood test results. Iron is low, very low, which is why I've been so tired and wanting to do nothing but sleep. I am now on an iron supplement on top of about 3 anti acid medications. Hopefully, in a few weeks I'll be back to normal. I do have to change my eating habits to help regulate the acid reflux. All the foods I love to eat will be G.O.N.E! Oh well, better that than suffering!

Hiatal Hernia:

GERD:

Push Me Higher

2009-04-21T18:17:00.001-07:00

On your mark...

Get set...

Go!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Easter Sunday

2009-04-19T18:40:00.000-07:00

I just LOVE spring and the beautiful flowers God blesses us with!

Easter Sunday we spent the morning in Monroe. We went up for the weekend to do a few things around the house and enjoyed time with friends and family. We drove home after church so Nathan could see what the Easter bunny left for him and hunt eggs that Nana hid around the yard.

Nathan enjoying time with Helen at church in Monroe.

Giving bye hugs!
She is so beautiful!

Nathan finding the eggs. They were hid pretty good.

Nana helping Nathan count his eggs.

A full basket!

the face...

2009-04-19T18:35:00.000-07:00

Here is "the face" I told you about a few posts ago. HILARIOUS!!!

March In...March Out

2009-04-02T18:07:00.000-07:00

March was fun. We went to Fort Toulouse with good friends, Justin & Hilary Gresham, and was able to spend a little time with their precious daughter, Juliet. It was a beautiful day and we had a lot of fun grilling out and letting the dogs run and walking trails. Such a nice place out there to go and spend a Saturday afternoon!

I was also able to surprise my parents one Sunday morning when Nathan and I decided to go to 10th Street church of Christ and worship with them. Mom said she recognized Nathan immediately after we walked in (I was carrying him) but she had to ask herself if that was me with Nathan. I didn't know if I should have taken that as a compliment or an insult. :) Here are a few pics of our afternoon with them. We weren't able to stay very long but I promised Nathan we would soon go back to visit since it no longer takes us 3 hours to get there!

He loves his tractor!

Helping Pawpaw play in the dirt!

Nathan found my camera one night and wanted to take pictures. He has never used a "real" camera before but he did pretty good. I didn't think by the way he was holding the camera that anything would be on the picture! Here are a few of his first shots!

And one I took of us. He's such a gem!

Nathan constantly keeps me laughing. I'm not sure if it's because I'm easily amused or if it's just his personality. He's at the age where just about everything that he does or says is HILARIOUS! Of course, we have those moments where he isn't so cute but the good outweighs the bad, right?? He has this new face and every time he makes it I ROLL!! I'll post a picture of it soon. Last night he would not quit doing it and he would tickle me every time he would make the face. He raises both eyebrows and his eyes are so big and he puckers his lips so both his dimples show and he has the most serious look on his face. Ty was getting annoyed because I would laugh every time but I can't help it. Well, last night Nathan was saying his prayers and for some reason I "peeked" a look at him and SURE ENOUGH he was making the face at me.. i tried really hard (I promise) to maintain composure until after the prayer but I lost it. Needless to say, we both got in trouble.. :( I'm no longer allowed to look at Nathan while he's praying! LOL

He will forever be my baby!

How Can You Say NO??!

2009-03-17T09:03:00.000-07:00

Last night Ty and I went to dinner with Matt & Katie. We decided to go to Cracker Barrel and those of you who know me know I can't just go in and not look at the "Country Store" part. Well, Nathan has inherited that from me. Ty knows that and told Nathan upon entering that he will NOT be getting a toy tonight. Nathan agreed and we went in and headed straight to the table to eat. After dinner I asked Nathan if he wanted to go look around the store, he agreed so we went. Nathan had found one of those toys that you grip the handle and the clamps at the end of it close and you release the handle and it opens again. He WOULD NOT put it down. He asked Ty if he would hold it and as soon as Ty got a hold of it Nathan turned to him and said, "don't put it down daddy, don't put it right there (and pointed to the box that it came out of)... EVER!" Ty asked him why not (as he was trying to not bust out laughing) and Nathan said, "because it's going home with me!"
I proceeded to get $6 out of my purse and buy the toy for him.. oops! :) I couldn't resist!

Calling All Coupon Clippers!

2009-03-04T09:41:00.001-08:00

My friend Amanda @ More Than Words is currently having a drawing to giveaway over $200 worth of coupons and a coupon organizer! Anyone interested in a chance to win this awesome prize go to her blog and enter for the drawing! In this economy every penny counts and a penny saved is a penny earned!!
here's a link to her blog:
http://everythingelsewastakensoichosethis.blogspot.com/

1 toddler + 2 beds = sleep depravation

2009-03-04T08:27:00.000-08:00

I thought it was a mini stage that would quickly pass but it seems that it is a bigger problem than I anticipated.
The problem has been going on for several months now and instead of improving it's getting worse.
Here is the problem:
NATHAN IS NOT WANTING TO GO TO SLEEP!!!

OK, now here's the details...
Bedtime is 8:30. We begin the process around 8:30 and after prayers and hugs and kisses lights are out. Nathan wants to try everything to make this part of the process go for as long as he can. Lately he's been begging me to sleep with him. I have NEVER slept with him (other than when Ty's out of town I'll occasionally let him sleep with me, but that's not often). I truly believe that in his mind he sees that I have someone that I sleep with and right now he sees that Tina and Allen sleep together and he wants someone to sleep with him. When I think about it from his perspective I have to say that I don't blame him. I just don't know how to make him understand that isn't how it works. He'll lay in bed and cry for me. Last night Ty put him in bed around 8:30, it was 10:30 and he was STILL crying. Just about every morning I wake up and he's in the bed with me anyway. He'll come in there some time during the night and I guess in his eyes he's won. The thing is I don't care if he sleeps with me but I can't start that because I know it won't solve anything. I'm at the end of my rope and Nathan is exhausted! We've bought a dimmer switch to put in his room because at first his excuse was "I'm afraid of the dark." We then bought him some spiderman sheets so he would have a "cool" place to sleep. Obviously, none of these are working.

I know I'm not the only parent who has this problem so all of you out there that has dealt or is dealing with this any advice or opinions are welcome!!

snOw DaY

2009-03-02T19:23:00.000-08:00

So as many of you know we woke up on Sunday morning with arctic weather. Alabama hardly ever gets snow and when it does it's not usually enough to really cover the ground. We were all suprised at how much was coming down and how much had already stuck. Nathan wanted to go out immediately and play but we had to get ready for church. We had hoped it would stick around until church was over. It did! Ty and Nathan had a blast playing in it while I got lunch ready. Here are a few pics of Nathan and his first snowball fight.

Our much needed time away...

2009-02-10T18:16:00.000-08:00

was spent in Nashville TN. Both Ty and I agree that Tennessee is a beautiful state and if we ever move again we would love to live there. I absolutely love the mountains. We decided to save for another trip back to Tennessee but this next time to go to our MOST favorite place.. Pigeon Forge! Talk about somewhere I could live forever! To be able to look out your window and see God's beautiful creation and the breath taking view of the mountains! Anyway, I'm daydreaming and drooling :)

This trip took us to the Opryland Hotel. Those of you who know us well know that is where it all started for me and Ty. Each year we would go to the hotel for Lads to Leaders/Leaderettes convention. It was so nice to see the place where so many memories were made so many years ago. It was great walking around recognizing the smells and sounds and scenery. Not much has changed but some of the things we had looked forward to most were not there anymore (like Rachel's kitchen and that ice cream place). We had a great time together in such a beautiful hotel. Here are some pictures, of course the pictures do not do this hotel justice! Enjoy~

I love this man so much!

And he loves me too!!

WOO-HOO!!!

2009-02-04T14:45:00.000-08:00

I usually wait until I have pictures before I post but I COULD NOT wait to get this post out. I am so super excited about this weekend. Several weeks ago my mom mentioned getting Nathan for the weekend. Well, I couldn't pass up the opportunity of mentioning to Ty about us going away for the weekend. *Side note* Ty and I have NOT be away (just the 2 of us) since before Nathan was born so this trip is much needed! Anyway, I kept running into barriers with everything I tried to work out. Either things were booked or too far away or cost too much or one of us didn't want to go to that particular place. Well, long story short, we both decided on a weekend in Nashville, TN! YEAH!! I would LOVE to stay at the Gaylord Opryland Hotel (that's where it all started for me and him 10 years ago this April) but it just isn't cost efficient so we are going to stay across the street from the hotel and spend all our time in the hotel other than the time we are sleeping. (I'm the brilliant one who thought of this!) :) HA! I can't wait! Our plan is to try and get off early Friday and head up and come back Sunday afternoon. You guys just don't know how much I'm anticipating this wonderful weekend with my fabulous husband! Thanks babe!! I love you!!

Playing Catch-Up

2009-01-28T16:57:00.001-08:00

Our lives have been very eventful this past month. Here is a little "quick version" to catch you
all up on what's been going on.

Nathan has become pretty good at riding his bicycle. He is now riding it to "Mr. John's" house (aka Uncle John) which is about a quarter mile down the road.

The Saturday before I was to start work on Monday I was offered a job at Pigg Enterprises. It is a GREAT job and I really love it. Plus, it has great perks. One, good deals on cars. My first week there we bought Ty a new truck. Very nice!!!

I had to throw in pictures of my guys. Look at how handsome they are!!

And we had some great family time during the Christmas holiday. Aunt Tiffany and Nathan being silly...

The 2 daughters in law with our wonderful mother in law!

And the most eventful happening actually happened today. Nana (aka Tina) said that after today all her hair has turned gray underneath! I'm surprised mine just didn't fall out. Here's the story:

Ty has been out of town this week because of a sales meeting in Dallas Texas. I was putting Nathan in bed Tuesday night and as he was saying his prayers I glanced in his ear (no idea why) but I noticed something white. I looked closer and it looked like a piece of paper. Panicking on the inside I came out of his room and told my mother in law that I think Nathan has a piece of paper stuck in his ear. She looked and saw it too. She then asked me if it's just in that ear. (didn't think that he would possibly have something in BOTH ears!) Well, he did.. It looked like paper in BOTH ears. I was freaking, called Tiffany (who works at a doctor's office) and she tells me to take him to the doctor first thing Wednesday morning. We did just that. Dr. Glover was able to get the paper out no problem. In the right ear it wasn't as easy. Picture this, Tina sitting on and holding his legs, I have his arms and chest pressed down and Dr. Glover has his head. We proceed with the right ear thinking it would be a quick grab like the left ear was. It wasn't. Whatever was in his right ear kept breaking apart. Dr. Glover said it was some type of sugary substance or maybe foam. He finally got the majority of it out after about 5 minutes. Nathan is screaming at the TOP of his lungs. His ear starts to bleed and we are all sweating. While we were there he is checked for strep (which was negative) because it's going around his school. After this is all over he is clinging to me so tightly and telling me he doesn't want to hurt anymore. :( Needless to say, I stayed home from work the rest of the day, Tina took off the rest of the day and we all lounged around.

Here is the before picture. He has no idea where we are and why we are there.

The after picture... bless him!!!

The cause of all the drama!

Maybe after this trip to the doctor he will not be putting anything in his ears or nose ever again. We have already been to the doctor getting out a marker tip that he shoved up his nose. I hope he's done!! It will be something I'll never forget.

Taking a look back

2008-12-31T21:21:00.001-08:00

It seems like the years are going by faster and faster. I can't believe that 2008 is now only a memory. We have made some wonderful memories that is for sure. It will be a year that will always be remembered in our hearts. Here's a look back at where we've been and how we've grown. Hope you enjoy! Oh, and here's my disclaimer... "I have the worst time remembering so I'll try my best to get these in order."

At the very end of 2007 we celebrated our niece's first birthday. If 2008 shows nothing else it shows how much the children have grown!

In February I took my guys to Supercross in Atl. This was a surprise to Ty. We all had a great time!

In March Nathan checked for his first "stinky" diaper.

April brought Nana (Ty's mom) up to the house for Easter. She and Nathan got to hunt eggs. It was such a wonderful weekend!

It was in April that I went to the beach for my co-worker's, and good friend's, bachelorette party. I also celebrated my 28th birthday and Ty and I celebrated our 8th year together.

May: Nathan was in Erin's wedding. He was so handsome and did a fairly good job. He didn't like trying the tux on but Erin gave him a "Mater" truck and he forgot about the hundreds of people watching him!

My baby brother also graduated from college in May! Go Eric!!

I had a "first" in May. I said goodbye to Nathan who went to stay a FULL week at my parents' house with Helen.

They had some great "cousin time!"

June: Nathan experienced his first broken heart. We met up with my parents for a quick visit/family reunion and Nathan didn't understand why he couldn't go home with Pawpaw and Mimi again. He cried the whole way home (about 2 hours)!! Bless his soul!

The frown quickly turned upside down when we took a mini vacation to Pigeon Forge Tennessee to celebrate Ty's grandparent's (Bobby and Sandra Simmons) 50th wedding anniversary! It was only a weekend for us but several family members stayed for an entire week.

July brought many "big" events. One was the biggest zucchini I'd ever seen grown! Ty was at camp for a week and I was in charge of tending the garden. I realized that week that I could never be a farmer.. I wasn't very diligent!

Ty returning home from camp. He celebrated his 27th birthday while he was away. He was truly missed that week!

Nathan turned 3 at the end of July. Why do babies have to grow so fast?!?

I'll never forget the amazing wrapping Aunt Kristy did for Nathan since they we not able to attend his party! She's so talented!!

August: we took a trip to the lake with my parents and Brian and Kristy. The water was cold but the kids didn't seem to mind.

Sorry.. I have absolutely nothing for September (read disclaimer above). October, however, has enough for an entire year! First, we celebrated our 6th wedding anniversary.

It was on a Sunday. Ty and a few others went to Jackson Georgia to worship with that struggling congregation. I went with my best friend, Crissy, and some of her family to Perry Georgia to see Sugarland in concert!

3 days later I find out that we are expecting.

A few weeks after we head to Camp Inagehi for a "Transformers" retreat that Ty put together for the youth at Monroe.

I hosted a fun night of girl's bunco "halloween" style at the house.

Nathan dressed up as the cutest cowboy I'd ever seen for Halloween!

November: we learn at my first doctor's appointment that something is wrong with the pregnancy and it turns out that I miscarried. We accept the loss knowing the baby is in God's loving care and celebrate Thanksgiving with the family we do have.

December: Ty gets a promotion to become a store manager at a new store in Montgomery, Alabama so we put our house up for sale and move back to Prattville.

We had to say goodbye to some wonderful friends in Georgia. Living in Georgia for most of 2007 and all of 2008 really has opened our eyes to who we are and what's most important in life. There have been many tears shed in 2008 but there have also been many laughs. I want to thank God for giving us another year to look back on and for the people who have crossed our path and walked with us...if only for a moment. There are many exciting things to look forward to with a new year. I hope each of you have a blessed new year and will live and love every day like it's your last! Happy New Year!!

P.S. If anyone can help me with this editing problem please let me know. I apparently don't know what I'm doing. I'll be glad to give you my log-in information if you can fix this for me! I worked on it for 3 hours!!!!! DONE WITH IT!

Prattvillians...I need your help!

2008-12-30T07:04:00.000-08:00

I never thought it would be so difficult to find child care. We have contacted several preschools in the area and all are full. Being a typical mother, I'm pretty picky about where I want to put my child. I would prefer not to put him in a general day care facility but one where he can be involved in a learning program. I don't want him to be just another number but an important part of his school. I may be asking for a lot but I feel as a working mother I have that choice. We would prefer for me to be a stay-home mom again but right now that just isn't possible.
So here is where you come in! If anyone has ANY ideas about what we can do please let us know. We are both going back to work on the 5th (which is Monday) so we don't have much more time. We have already looked at Camellia Baptist (he's on a waiting list there). Um, The church of the Living Water (in the old East Memorial building) doesn't have anything open and First Baptist is closed until next Monday.
I feel like everything has been coming to a dead end. It's hard for me not to wonder why. What is God wanting us to do? Does He have different plans for us and we just can not see them right now? I hate making decisions, especially when it comes to the happiness of my child. More than that I hate the fear of the unknown. With all that said you can see I am really struggling with this and if anyone has any ideas or offers please please please let me know ASAP!!

ThErE AnD BaCk AgAiN...

2008-12-27T18:39:00.000-08:00

There are lots of reasons why I have been off with my postings lately. The main one is I lost the memory stick to my camera about a week ago so my picture taking has been hindered. The other main reason is we have moved from Georgia back to Prattville. We are currently residing with Ty's parents in Prattville while we are trying to sell our home in Monroe.

We all had a great Christmas. It once again looked like ToysRUs threw up in the living room and since we don't have much storage space it's taking a while to find places for all these new toys. To name a few he ended up with a bike (from santa) a red radio flyer wagon (from ty's parents) and a red radio flyer big wheel (from my parents). His favorite that he asked for weeks from Santa was not one but 2 (yes 2) Woody cowboys from Toy Story. He received lots of clothes, games, Transformers, a few movies... it goes on and on. I wanted to do a little extra this year for him. One was because it may be his last Christmas as an only child and, two, because he was really into it this year and that made it more fun for me!!

Sorry I don't have any pictures. We went to Circuit City and bought me a new card so I'll try and get some pictures of him playing with all this new stuff!

I can't go without leaving some type of picture so here's a picture of our new (temporary) residence. Pray that our home in Monroe sells quickly so we can give my in-laws their space back!!

904 RunningBrook Drive Prattville, Al 36066

Like Father Like Son

2008-12-02T18:10:00.001-08:00

I don't think this needs any words...

Oh, and just so you know, they were watching a gun shooting video on the computer. I think I'm going to be in trouble in a few years!

*Scroll down.. this is my second post for the day!

To the hospital and back again...

2008-12-02T17:40:00.000-08:00

Sorry I haven't blogged in several weeks. The last blog I wrote gave some hope on the pregnancy but after another doctor's visit it was determined that I actually did miscarry. I've been dealing with a lot of emotional ups and downs the last week or so. I went last Monday and had a D&C. Needless to say, I was laid up for a few days after that procedure. I went back to work on Wednesday and to my parents house for Thanksgiving on Thursday. On the drive home Thursday night I started having pretty bad abdominal pains that ran all the way down my legs. I didn't think much of it and went on to work Friday. Friday the pains continued to worsen. It hurt to stand, sit, walk, lay down, go to the bathroom....you get the picture. Again, I tried to ignore the pains thinking that I was still trying to "recover." Saturday morning Ty headed to work and I did the same. I decided, after talking to a co-worker of mine, that I needed to call my doctor about my pains. The doctor advised me to take myself to the emergency room. I phoned Ty and we went. After a LONG wait in the ER I was finally seen. They did a ultrasound and told me that my uterus had becomed inflamed again and that there was a layer of blood clots between my uterus and the endometrial tissue which was also causing pain and pressure. They sent me home with a prescription for Aleve, Prilosec, and strict instructions to "take it easy." With Nathan being gone for the weekend it was not hard to follow doctor's orders. This morning was the first morning I woke up pain free in a week. It's been a hard past few weeks but there have been a lot of prayers said for me and I am so thankful for all of you who have prayed for me.

Here is a picture I took on Thanksgiving. Thanks to my mom and dad who kept Nathan for me over the Thanksgiving holiday. It allowed me the time I needed to get well.

And special thanks to my wonderful husband who has been my rock through all this. I know I would not have made it through as well as I have/am if it wasn't for him. I have truly felt and seen his love for me and our family. Thank you babe. I love you with all my heart!

Prayer Requests

2008-11-11T17:08:00.000-08:00

I want to ask all of you to continue to remember us in your prayers for several reasons. I went back to the doctor yesterday to give more blood so they could see what my HCG level was doing. They were wanting to see the level go down so they would know that my body was realizing that the pregnancy wasn't viable. I learned today that the blood work results actually showed my HCG levels increasing. As hard as it is I'm trying to not get my hopes up that things will be OK. I am scheduled for another ultrasound on Friday and the doctor is hoping to see a heartbeat. Please keep me and this baby in your prayers.

The other prayer request is about the news that Ty brought home yesterday. He went for a job interview to be the store manager at the new Sherwin Williams store on Taylor Road in Montgomery. He was offered the job and we accepted. This will bring BIG changes to our lives once again. We have such mixed emotions.. we are very excited to get back to Prattville and to be around our families and friends again but the relationships that have formed here will be greatly missed. I never thought it would be so difficult to "go back home" as it has been. We know that God knows best and that this is in His plan for us but the fear of the unknown is enough to bring stress and worry into our lives. I just ask that you pray for us during this transition and pray for Ty that he will take to this new position and have the confidence and knowledge that he will need to do a great job!

This is a picture of Nathan when we moved from Prattville to Georgia...

This picture was taken a few weeks ago... wow, how time flies!!

Holding it...

2008-11-11T12:54:00.001-08:00

The other day Nathan and I were on our way home from work and school. We were about 2 miles from the house when Nathan told me that he needs to go potty. With being so close to home I asked him if he could just hold it. I heard nothing...I looked back after a few seconds to find my child with his hand down the back of his pants... I asked him what he was doing and he said, "I'm holding it mom." (sigh)

Jesus...love him good

2008-11-07T13:39:00.000-08:00

Yesterday I had my first doctor's appointment. We talked it up with Nathan so he would know that he was going to be able to see the baby on "TV" and hear the baby's heart. None of that took place. What was supposed to be a joyful, heart filling day, ended up being a sorrowful, heartbreaking day. We learned that from my time frame on when I tested positive and the growth of the baby that the two are not matching up. My body is showing I should be about 7 weeks along with the baby having arms, legs and a heart beat. However, we saw the yoke sac and the little ball that was the baby. There is about a 2 week discrepancy. The doctor was concerned so they took blood work. I received a phone call today confirming what I had been dreading to hear all day. It appears that my body is in the process of a miscarriage. I have never had to deal with this before but I have felt the heart break from others who have. I know it's a struggle on trying to figure out why and how and what to do now. I don't really know what to think. My body hasn't completely miscarried so that's why I'm so confused. This is the doctor's explanation... my HCG level is high, my progestrone level is low.. the pregnancy in itself is high showing I am about 4-5 weeks along but with my last cycle I should be about 7-8 weeks along. The doctor thinks I am having a miscarriage since the progestrone level is so low and they want the HCG level to go down... I go back on Monday to give more blood and if the HCG level is still elavated they will need to go in and do a D&C. I'm so scared to even know what that is. What if I have not completely lost the baby? For all I know..the baby is still in there fighting. The doctors say this isn't a good pregnancy.. I say I don't feel like this is over. If I don't have any physical evidence that this is a miscarriage what should I think? This is so completely devastating and to all of you who have experienced this.. I am so truly sorry. I know this baby will be in the most loving hands and someday I will be able to look into those eyes and to see those tiny fingers.. but for now all I need is your prayers that I will have the strength to get through this time.

and now the rest of the story...

2008-11-04T16:42:00.000-08:00

So this is how our October ended. I told you the last post was "to be continued." Friday we were able to dress up at work. I work with 3 other ladies and no one had any extra money to go buy a fancy costume so we decided to be tail-gaters. Heather and I were 2 Alabama fans and Vicki and Erin were 2 Georgia Bulldog fans. It balanced out pretty well.. I figured I'd be the only Alabama fan but it's good to know that there are other people in Georgia with some good common sense :)

Nathan went to school in one of the shirts that his Nana (Ty's mom) got him. He loved it that the Mickey Mouse lit up!

I left work, flew home and saw the most handsome trick-or-treater EVER! My little cowboy!

We had a "carnival" at the Allen's house (who, by the way, threw an awesome party!) Everyone had a "booth" that allowed the kids to play a game or do a craft and fill up on candy. I loved this idea! It allowed us adults to fellowship and we didn't have to worry about what "treats" our kids were getting. Here are some pics of the evening there.

Ty worked so hard and made a bean bag toss (all from one piece of wood) :) It was a HIT (no pun intended).

This is Helen's LAST attempt to the get bean bag through the hole.. she was determined this time to make it! LOL

Aunt Kristy's booth was mini pumpkin painting. Here is Nathan and Spiderman (aka Noah Allen) painting their pumpkins!

Another game was finding what was brewing in the witches cauldron. I'm not sure what all was in there but Helen was going to find out!

Other activities included decorating cupcakes, making s'mores over a fire and some awesome face painting! Tina has such a talent.

Beth Allen was a hippie.. her costume was complete after Tina got a hold of her face!

I was still an Alabama tail-gater but I LOVE turtles so that's what I requested! I cried when I had to wash it off...

Emily was Dolly Parton. She got her "bling" on!

And, of course, the night wouldn't be complete without some self and family portraits!

MY October Fest!!!

2008-10-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

This month has been crazy but so much fun and one to always remember. We have been busy with this and that. Maybe now you'll see why I haven't been blogging much. I hope I don't lose you in this post.. I know it's alot but welcome to our life!! :)

Things that happened this month:

1. Ty and I celebrated our 6th anniversary!

2. 3 days after we celebrated our 6th anniversary this news appeared!

Nathan is going to be a BIG brother! We are so excited! I have my first doctor's appointment on November 6th. I'll be able to reveal more information about the little one after then...

3. Camp Inagehi

This was our 1st Annual Youth Retreat that Ty put together. We had a great time getting to know each other better and growing closer to God.

4. Boo-unco Night!

I hosted the bunco this month. It was so much fun getting everything decorated and "spook"acular! We all had a blast!

Thanks for an awesome door Crissy!

Not everything was edible!

5. Last, but not least, family time! With all the craziness we still were able to spend time with our wonderful niece, Helen. She came over for a little visit after the retreat. Nathan and Helen play so good together (for the most part)! They had a blast in an old $5 laundry basket.. why do we spend so much money on all these toys?!?

OH! And let's not forget the Simmons' sword fight!!!

I would like to say "the end" for October but we still have 1 more week! This Friday will hold our "carnival" at Duke and Beth Allen's house where the kids will be able to participate in games and win prizes and candy. Nathan is going to be a cowboy this year. I'll have to say that this blog is "to be continued..."

Also, I would like to ask you all to keep us in your prayers. Ty and I have several things going on right now (I'll tell more later) and if everything plays out right for us it would be GREAT for our little family.. And, I need help coming up with a new blog title since we won't be "two boys & a girl" for much longer. I know it's early.. and after we find out the sex of this baby it will be easier to think of another name but any suggestions would be greatly appreciated. You don't know how long it took me to come up with this one... :)

Sugar Sugar!!

2008-10-14T17:27:00.000-07:00

It's official! I am completely in love with Sugarland! I went to my first concert EVER on Sunday and had the time of my life! Thanks so much for the invite Crissy! I'll never forget the energy I felt from the music. Here are a few pics of our time in Perry, Ga. The concert was at the fair grounds. Our plan was to arrive several hours early and enjoy some fair rides before the concert. We bought wristbands for $15. Crissy wanted to head to the farris wheel first so that's where we went. The lines were longer than lines at Six Flags!! Long story short.. we were able to ride 2 (yes 2!) rides in an hour and a half!! Oh well.. it was all well worth it!

I am so afraid of heights that this was a MAJOR step for me! When you looked straight up at it it looked like it was leaning forward to fall over! It was actually just the clouds moving above but it was freaky!!

From the highest point on the ride.. I think this is the point that I peed myself! LOL

How come they look so calm?!! I was freakin out!!

A couple of pics taken while standing in line!

Top: Betsy Brown.. me, Emily McCannon & Crissy McCannon

Smile! Say cheese!!

Zac Brown Band was the opening act for Sugarland. They did an awesome job! It won't be long that there will be someone opening for them!!

Singing Chicken Fried!

I was so pumped to hear Sugarland that I didn't get any pictures! All I have to say is if you want to experience a time of your life go see them in concert! We are already looking for where they will be next. WOO-HOO!!

Urban Cowboy sporting the fruits...

2008-09-23T17:45:00.000-07:00

Today Ty and I were both off work so we headed out to find Nathan a halloween costume. He told us he wanted to be a cowboy. Well, that excited both of us because we have been wanting to get him a pair of boots for a while now. Off we went to Snellville to Horsetown East to find cowboy get-up. I was not very impressed with the selection of boots and Nathan, having a 15 minute nap, was not in the best of moods. I did find him a pair of slim fit, cowboy cut, Wrangler jeans though! They are so adorable on him!!! We left there, went to eat lunch, and to head to our favorite country store, Boss Brothers, in Loganville. There we found THE boots. They are just like "Woody's" or that's what Nathan will tell you. Woody is off of Toy Story for those of you who don't know. That's his newest favorite movie and Woody is a cowboy. We also found a cowboy hat. After seeing Nathan in the hat we knew it was a MUST!! You'll have to wait until halloween to get a picture of the complete get-up but tonight he was sporting the hat and boots in his

underwear. I couldn't resist! :)

Small Talk & Butt Crack...

2008-09-03T19:56:00.000-07:00

The following picture was taken by Aunt Kristy. Ty, Nathan, Brian and Helen went swimming several weeks ago when we went to Jackson. This was at the hotel where my grandparents stayed. Nathan would NOT pee in his pants.. good boy!! LOL

Ty, being the wonderful husband he is, cooked dinner last Wednesday since I had to work late. He made one of those soft taco dinner bakes with the layers of soft shells and meat and cheese.. well, he plated for Nathan and this is what Nathan said after seeing what was for dinner..

"Big boys don't eat that daddy!"

It was all Ty could muster to not bust out laughing! LOL I hate I missed that one!!

Here's another one for ya!

Ty was sick yesterday with a stomach virus. He started feeling better in the afternoon so he went and picked Nathan up from school. Here is the conversation on the way home.

Nathan: "you feelin better, daddy?"

Ty: "yeah.. I'm feeling better buddy."

Nathan: "you at your best daddy?"

Ty: SPEECHLESS AND GRINNING!

Where do they get this stuff?? So precious!

*this is my second post for the day.. scroll down!

Edit Previous Post...

2008-09-03T19:52:00.000-07:00

Savannah cancelled by Hanna...now sailin to Helen!!

Crissy and I made the decision to stay away from Savannah this weekend just in case they get wiped off the map. Instead, we are going to Helen. Crissy has a lot of memories from there and I am anxious to get to know that part of her life and also to get to see what a beautiful town Helen is. I have to admit, I am discouraged that we are not going to Savannah but am glad that we are still having a "girls" weekend. We will post-pone Savannah until another time! Again, I'll post pics of our trip!

Road Trip!!

2008-08-25T18:00:00.000-07:00

Guess where I'm going...

Here's a hint:

Here's who I'm going with:

This, my friends, is Crissy McCannon.. aka "Trudy." I met Crissy when we moved to Ga. and if there is nothing else, this is ONE reason why I am loving life. We hit it off from the beginning and have had wonderful talks and times together. We decided to plan a "girls" road trip and where else to go but Savannah, Georgia! Our trip is scheduled for Sept. 5th-7th. Crissy will tell you that it's 11 days away! But who's counting, right?!? We are both so extremely excited about taking this trip together and getting away from the everyday "routine." I have been wanting to go to Savannah for a LONG time and am so excited to finally be going and to be going with someone who means so much to me. If you haven't ever had the opportunity to meet Crissy, you should. your life would never be the same again!! LOVE YA GURL!!

I'll be sure to get lots of "scenery" shots of our weekend!

Isn't she pretty?!?!!!

Just the 2 of us...

2008-08-17T19:44:00.000-07:00

As part of Nathan's birthday present mom and dad kept him for the week. He was about as excited staying as Ty and I were going home just the 2 of us. We had Tuesday of that week off and decided to spend the day together enjoying each others company and growing closer together. Here was what we did! It was so romantic...

First we painted the bedroom and while waiting on the first coat to dry we decided (or I decided) to let Ty hang my new picture and wall decor in the bathroom that has been sitting in our bedroom for about a month! It's finally all done!

Look Who's 3!

2008-08-17T15:00:00.000-07:00

Well.. 4 weeks ago anyway! I've been so busy lately with this and that and haven't made the time to show you all the pictures of his "cars" birthday party. He had a great time turning 3. He loaded up on new toys and clothes. It looked like ToysRUs threw up in my dad's barn! But that's what we get since Nathan is the only greatgrandchild/grandchild/nephew on Ty's side and one of 2 on my side. He's spoiled to say the least...but that's OK, right? Here are a few snapshots of the great time we had.

This is what PawPaw and MiMi got Nathan. He stayed with them for the week and I think he swam everyday. He came home with a great sun tan and lots of memories!

BIRTHDAY BOY!!

2008-07-25T09:03:00.000-07:00

Wow! That's pretty much all I feel today. I can't believe it's been 3 years already!!! How time just goes by... Ty and I have already made some wonderful memories with our precious little boy. We thank God every day for giving us such a handsome, happy and most importantly, healthy child. We are about to leave for Alabama to celebrate his birthday with our families and have a birthday party for him at his most favoritest place ever!! I'll be sure to get some pics! Here are a few from this morning when we took him to breakfast. Happy birthday buddy! Mommy loves you.

Aunts are the BEST...

2008-07-23T19:10:00.000-07:00

When you become a mother there is this undescribable love that happens immediately. When you become an aunt the strangest thing happens... that same type of love happens immediately!! Those of you who are blessed enough to be aunts know what I'm talking about. I love Helen as if she were my own. She is such a precious child and Brian and Kristy are doing such a wonderful job raising her in a Godly home. Just to prove it.. she's 18 months old and already reminding her mother that she needs to say her nightly prayers! *Refer to Kristy's blog.. http://briankristyhelen.blogspot.com/

At any rate.. I said all that to say that I know without a doubt that Kristy feels the same way about Nathan. She is such a wonderful Christian woman, friend, sister-in-law, and Aunt! Brian couldn't have picked a better wife! She's so creative too! She gave Nathan his birthday present tonight at church since they will not be able to take the trip to Alabama with us for his party and I about fell out when I saw it! I immediately snatched it up and took it to the car before Nathan got his hands on it.. I almost hate for him to open it! She's just fabulous!! Kudos to Aunt Kristy!

Oh, and by the way Aunt Kristy, Nathan is so disappointed that you and the fam won't be able to come to his party. Here is a mini-version conversation I had with him tonight after we got home..

Mommy: Only one more day of school and we are going to Pawpaw and Mimi's house for your party!

Nathan: Is "Kisty" and "Heenie" going to my party?

Mommy: No baby, they won't be able to come this time.

Nathan: Oh No!!

Thanks for being so great to me and to my son Kristy.. you just don't know how much that means to me!

HELLLLLOOOOO?!?!

2008-07-19T18:30:00.000-07:00

Wondering where I've been? Well, let's see, since the last post... Ty did get home and I FINALLY got all the camp clothes washed. (side note: if anyone has ever been to camp, you know that everything has to get washed regardless if it's been worn or not!) So with that being said maybe know you'll understand when i said "FINALLY!" This week we had VBS. It started Wednesday night and ended this afternoon. I, along with Amanda Dickens, taught the 4, 5 & 6 year olds. We had an average of 11 every night. It was great! But I'm exhausted! Nathan.. he's a story all on his own! He's never been a shy or bashful child but for some reason this week he's been glued to my hip. He would not go to his own class so the first 2 nights he got to sit in class with Ty who was teaching the teenagers. Friday night I decided to let him just come to class with me and he did great. He actually chippered up a little (is that a word?) and by the end of the night he was running around and singing VBS songs. Today after VBS I thought it would be nice to let Nathan see where Ty works. It's not like I can just hop in the car and go see him any time.. you have to plan 45 minute trips! Ty is really close to the Mall of Georgia and since he was scheduled to get off at 2 we went up and spent the rest of the afternoon searching for Nathan a birthday present. That's another thing that's been going on. I'm planning him a party at my parents house this coming up weekend. It's not that involved but I still want it to be special for Nathan (he'll be 3!). We started out at the "big" ToysRUs in Buford Ga. We weren't very impressed because they are moving locations and having a big "everything must go" sell. It was crowded and picked through. We rode over to the mall and walked around but neither Ty and I are big mall walkers so we didn't stay long. We then ventured over to an Italian restaurant to eat dinner with my co-worker and good friend, Erin, and her husband. After that we went to Target (yes Target! I know.. the mall of Ga. and we go to Target!) But I want you to know that's where we found his present! It's going to be a surprise for him... i really hope he likes it. Here's a pic but don't tell him what it is! :)

Plans for this week... work and get ready for the party. My mom is taking off next week (the week after his birthday) and keeping Nathan again. We'll leave him with them for another WHOLE week! Actually, this will be an entire week and last time it was only like 4 days. I'll be OK though. You should see the child when he gets to "pawpaw's house." If you could name your Heaven, that would be his! Mom decided this after the last time she had to leave him. You remember the last post?? Yup, it tore her up as bad as it tore him up. So sweet! Anyway, I'll have to get them to take good pictures so I can post his 2nd week of vacation for the summer! Mommy hasn't even had 1!! Oh well.

One more thing. It's so hard to believe that it's already been 3 years!

We've gone from this...

To this...

From one extreme to the next!

2008-07-07T19:46:00.000-07:00

Friday about 5:30pm I asked Nathan if he wanted to get his shoes on and go outside to wait for daddy. I knew Ty had to be getting close. Nathan couldn't get his shoes to me fast enough. About the time I got them strapped on Ty was pulling into the driveway. Nathan darted for the front door and straight into his daddy's arms. I don't know who was more excited: daddy, mommy or Nathan.

Well Friday night about 8 Nathan started running fever. We had plans for the next morning to go to Carrollton, Ga for a family reunion with my dad's side of the family. All Nathan knew was he was going to see PawPaw and MiMi (my mom and dad) on Saturday. We were up A LOT on Friday night/Saturday morning with fever and throwing up I just knew we weren't going to the reunion. Nathan woke up about 7 on Saturday still running fever. We administered Tylenol and he ate breakfast without getting sick. I told him that we probably wouldn't be able to go see PawPaw and Mimi. Well that was heart break #1. He's words.. "I not sick.. I better!" We waited to see if the fever was going to come back after an hour or so and when it didn't we headed to Carrollton. Nathan quickly attached himself to either PawPaw or MiMi's hip. We had a great visit on Saturday and Sunday. Sunday after church we started packing up to come back home and Nathan quickly told us he was going to PawPaw's house. Well long story short, he ended up in the car with us and this is what we heard and saw the WHOLE way home (about 1 1/2 hours). Bless his heart! I know how you feel baby, I love them bunches and hate leaving them too!!

Butterflies in the Tummy!!

2008-07-04T06:21:00.000-07:00

If you've ever been in love you know how it feels to get butterflies in your tummy. I would get them all the time when Ty and I were dating while I was waiting for him to come pick me up for a date. (I know.. mushy, mushy) BUT, I am very happy to say that after almost 6 years of marriage I still have those little butterflies. Ty is expected to return home today around 5:00. He's been gone since last Saturday around 1:30. I am so anxious to see him. I spoke with him this morning around 8 and he's all packed up and ready to go. I think he's just as ready to get home as Nathan and I are to have him back home. He did tell me that he had about a total of 10 minutes of sleep last night. I instructed him to go take a nap before they leave so he is NOT in a bad mood when he arrives home. That's the last thing I need after anticipating this day all week. I'll be sure to get some pictures of Nathan's expression when he sees his daddy today!

Small talk

2008-07-01T15:08:00.000-07:00

This conversation took place over several days between Nathan and myself.

Saturday evening (first night without Ty)
Mommy: Nathan, do you want to sleep in Nathan's bed or mommy and daddy's bed?
Nathan: Um... mommy and daddy's bed

Sunday evening
Mommy: Nathan, where do you want to sleep tonight?
Nathan: Um, mommy and daddy's bed.

Monday evening
Mommy: Nathan, do you want to sleep in your tractor bed tonight?
Nathan: No
Mommy: Where do you want to sleep?
Nathan: Um, sleep in mommy and Nathan's bed.

Sorry babe... looks like you've been replaced!

Zucchini anyone?

2008-06-30T17:04:00.000-07:00

So... Ty left me in charge of his garden while he's away. He left on Saturday afternoon. I figured it would be OK left unattended for a few days... Well, I went out there tonight to pick a few red tomatoes that I noticed through the window (I know.. but I have never been very thrilled about the whole garden thing anyway). So, I head out with Nathan and pick the tomatoes and a few squash that I noticed. I figured I would look through the zucchini while I was there. It's a good thing I did! There were several that were ready to be picked and one that should probably have been picked several days ago. That thing is huge!!!! I mean, how big will these things grow?? Here's a picture of it for those of you who "don't believe until you see." I guess I need to do better about this gardening thing. I do want to go shower now.. I feel like little bugs are crawling all over me.

Just thought I'd throw this one in... thanks for the "McQueen" sunglasses Erin!

Water Wart

2008-06-30T16:48:00.001-07:00

We have been talking about getting Nathan a pool for a while now. We wanted to wait and get him a big one (one big enough for mommy too) for his birthday. The more we talked about it, the more we decided we didn't want that headache. Plus, we were scared the dogs would destroy it while we were gone. There is a Dollar General in Winder closing and one of my co-workers was in there last week. She called and told me they had swimming pools. She picked one up for me. It was originally $8.00 then 75% off. I figured that was more in our price range right now.. Nathan wouldn't know the difference. He was absolutely thrilled to finally have a swimming pool! If it holds up for the rest of this summer I would say we got our $5 worth.

Pillow Fight

2008-06-29T18:05:00.001-07:00

I got home from work last Friday night dreading the next day because Ty would be leaving to go to camp for a week. I have been really spoiled since we have moved with him being home more. I didn't want him to go because the 3 of us have become very close and with Nathan getting older he is getting more and more fun to be with. We decided to spend Friday evening together at home. I was changing from my work clothes and Ty and Nathan started wrestling on the bed. Ty then proceeded to teach Nathan to pillow fight. I wish pictures had audio because Nathan's laugh was priceless!

50th Anniversary

2008-06-28T17:53:00.000-07:00

Ty's grandparents will be celebrating their 50th anniversary this year. For their "gift" his family planned a get-together at Pigeon Forge for an entire week. Well, we were only able to stay 2 nights due to money and work schedules. We had a great time those 3 days we were there. We were able to spend time with Chris and Tiffany and Ty's mom and dad along with the rest of his dad's family. The scenery was absolutely gorgeous! I love the mountains as does Ty. Nathan just called it "camp" the whole weekend. We have no idea where that came from but the place we stayed at was as big as a camp. Here are a few pics of that weekend along with snaps of some scenery we were able to enjoy. We also stopped at Clingman's Dome, which is the tallest point in Tennessee and Tallulah Gorge on the way home.

Clingman's Dome

Nathan's new teddy bear. He found him at Flap Jacks on the way home and said it needed to come to "Nathan's house."

Welcome to the blogging world!

2008-06-28T17:31:00.000-07:00

I have been playing with the idea of getting my own blog for some time now. I love blog surfing so much and wanted to get in on it but didn't know how (I know.. I'm a little slow). I finally decided I was just going to try it and then came the question.. what to name it.. That's what I've been pondering for the past month. I've asked several people who are more creative than I am for suggestions but nothing really hit home. I think this name fits pretty good. We're a fairly simple family and I wouldn't know what to do without my guys. I hope I can keep this up and I hope you will enjoy seeing daily posts of our crazy life! Love you all!