The Reichert Family Blog

Landon loves cake!!

2012-01-30T11:14:00.000-05:00

11 Months?!?!?

2012-01-16T08:42:00.001-05:00

Dear sweet boy,

I cannot fully wrap my head around the fact that I am sending out invitations to your first birthday party. I don't know where time has gone. This year has been full of wonderful memories for the beginning of our little family. You are still rocking those two bottom teeth. I love those two little teeth and you are so proud of them. Those top teeth are about to cut through though. I love when you call for me when you are upset. You are in love with Mickey Mouse Club House. You watch it as if you fully understand whats going on - which I'm convinced you do because let's face it - you are a genius. I hear that theme song in my sleep and especially the Hot Dog Song. You are not fully walking yet but you are taking steps. You have a little mix of crawling and walking going on. Your personality continues to come out more and more. When you giggle in your sleep it makes me smile. You have hands down the greatest laugh - it's contagious. Sometimes we have to stop making you laugh so you can catch your breath. You love to climb and I mean climb on everything. Your newest adventure is flipping the clothes basket over and climbing up one side and down the other. But you circle around it for about 5 minutes before you do that - just to size it up. You love to wrestle with your daddy. You still insist on walking with one toy in each hand but I think it's because you like a challenge. I will try not to cry at your birthday party but I make no guarantees because I love you to the moon and back sweet boy. No smile melts my heart the ways your does. I'll admit that you have me wrapped around that sweet little finger. Your Daddy and I love you so much! Try to slow down just a little for us.

Love,
Mommy and Daddy

I could eat him up!

Look at those two teeth!

Love those sweet little toes!

One day he will like wearing hats!

New Furniture!!!

2012-01-13T09:05:00.001-05:00

So Chad and I went on Tuesday and I guess you could say we got a few new things ;)

I love love love all of this!!! It adds so much to our living room and dining room :) and the rug gives is a splash of color...Still have a little bit of work today but I loved smelling the leather in our home last night!!

Little man was a fan too...

10 months

2011-12-26T12:02:00.000-05:00

Dear Landon,
I cannot believe how big you are getting baby boy! Your personality is getting stronger and stronger each day. Your laugh lights up a room and makes my heart smile. Your so ticklish and you don't stay still at all - unless your sleeping ;) You had a wonderful first Thanksgiving and you tore up some sweet potatoes!! You love them just like your Daddy. I love getting to spend time with you and watch you learn right before my eyes. You are catching onto things. You love to crawl around and have at least one toy in each hand. I guess you like a challenge ;) You are going through a little stage where you are fighting naps. You are pretty much over the baby food but you love your yogurt, just like your momma did growing up. Your such a smart little boy :) Cannot wait to celebrate our first Christmas with you!

P.S. Your Dad thought it would be funny to give you a mohawk for your 10 month picture (I don't think you were a fan!

Love you sweet boy,
Mommy and Daddy

Slacker

2011-12-21T08:51:00.000-05:00

Hello all!

So yes - I have neglected my blog of personal updates. Shame shame. So much has gone on since my last update on personal things going on. I'm not even really sure of where to start....Here we go...

So my lovely sister married her prince charming, Daniel Bentley on November 5. I think I did a pretty awesome job of planning her Bachelorette party if I do say so myself. It was a surprise for her - All of it. She had no clue where we were going and I loved that. We started off meeting at my house and from there we headed out to Buckhead for the evening. We had an amazing dinner at Maggianos and from there went to a painting class. It was a fun girls night. She had all of her besties there and just had good wholesome fun. And I had a theme (Thank you Pinterest) What did I do before you? ha!

And YES - That cake was truly as awesome as it looks! Shout out to MEG!!! You rock my dear!

More updating to come!

We have a Winner

2011-12-16T08:21:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to Emily Thompson on winning my first Christmas Giveaway!!!!

Second Christmas Giveaway details coming on Monday!!! :)

Christmas Giveaway #2

2011-12-14T09:04:00.000-05:00

Giveaways are so fun to do!! For our Christmas giveaway #2 we are welcoming back Lindsey's Scraps to Smiles out of Stockbridge. Lindsey hosted my October giveaway and it was a huge success!!

For those giveaway we will two winners - that's right TWO! We wanted to spread the love during the Christmas Season.

I can absolutely guarantee that she will personalize any item the way that you want it.

Lindsey has graciously provided the following items for two winners:

First Winner:

Christmas sign reading JOY
Personalized clay Christmas ornament
Personalized Sewing Kit

Second Winner:

Cinnamon stick candle
Girls' Christmas bow
Personalized Ball Ornament

All of the items will be personalized if indicated for both winners. With that being the case the items will be sent to the winner as soon as they are finished :)

Here's how to enter:

"Like" Lindsey's Scraps to Smiles Facebook page and leave a comment saying Laura's Endless Thoughts sent me and indicate in your comment what your favorite item is :)
Become a Follower of my blog - Super easy - Just click Join this site
Subscribe to my blog via email (Just enter your email address and click subscribe)

Contest will run starting today and end on Thursday and winner will be announced on Friday morning!! Good Luck!!!

1st Christmas Giveaway

2011-12-10T10:12:00.001-05:00

Hello All!!!!

I hope everyone is having an amazing Christmas Season!! Christmas is by far my favorite Holiday!! Celebrating the birth of my Savior - doesn't get any better than that! In keeping with the season I would like to introduce to you Reliable Signs, Inc. This business is truly amazing and I have a few of their things in my home and I absolutely love them! The wall art in my kitchen and a glass believe sign with lights in my kitchen as well. They are a fantastic company. Reasonably priced with a quick turnaround. Reliable Signs, Inc. has graciously agreed to giveaway a Believe glass block!! You don't want to miss out on the opportunity to win this decoration for your home!! This giveaway ends on Thursday, December 15th and the winner will be announced on Friday December 16th!!

Deatils on how to enter are listed below!!! Good Luck!!

"Like" the Reliable Signs, Inc. Facebook page and tell them Laura's Endless Thoughts sent me
Become a follower of my blog - Super easy - Just click Follow this site
Go the extra mile and browse their products on their facebook page and website: http://www.reliablesigns.net/ and tell them your favorite on their facebook wall
Subscribe to my blog via e-mail using the link
If you place an order with Reliable Signs, Inc. that will count as two entries for you. I will confirm with them that you did in fact place an order :)
Tweet about this giveaway via Twitter

You do not need to leave a comment for each entry you completed you can do it all in one comment on my blog but it would help if you remember to tell me each step you did :)

Thanks and Good luck!! Let me know if you have any questions!!

Santa time!

2011-12-06T08:20:00.001-05:00

I knew it was going to go one way or the other...With our schedules we had to take Landon in the evening which is usually the "witching hour" for Landon. But to our surprise Landon did great. Stared Santa right in the face and started giggling :) This is what we left with and I know I will treasure it forever. Love this little guy more than he will ever comprehend!!

9 Months!

2011-11-14T12:59:00.001-05:00

Dear Landon,

It is becoming more and more evident to me that time waits for no one. You continue to grow and change right before my eyes. At your 9 month check up you weighed 22 pounds and were 29 1/2 inches long :) You have not started walking on your own but I know that it is coming soon. You will hold onto the coffee table and end tables to get around. While doing this you like to hold onto things - usually you will have your orange little basketballs in your hands and you refuse to let them go. Your laugh is contagious. I really feel that you are going to have the best sense of humor. You have been the best little trooper while I am getting through my knee dislocation. I know the confusion of me not being able to pick you up or carry you has caused you concern. Someday you will understand baby boy. You can crawl like you are in a race. You get around like it is not a big deal at all. I personally have a feeling that you are a genius level IQ but I may be partial. I often watch you when a situation arises and you have to figure it out and I am amazed at how you are able to figure it out. I can see the gears in your brain turning. While I enjoy this at the same time it causes me concern. When we lay a chair down to keep you from going in the kitchen and you find the smallest crack or just outright move the chair - I think - We are going to have our hands full. You baby boy are the joy of our lives. Now, if we can just get you through the oh so ugly teething stage!!! Love you sweet boy!

Love you always,

Mom and Dad

8 months! Where does time go???

2011-10-19T10:10:00.001-04:00

Dear Landon,
You are now a little over 8 months and I love watching you learn something new everyday. Since learning to crawl, it has not taken you very long to pull up on anything and everything. You are so busy and into everything. You definitely keep Daddy and I on our feet! I love watching your motor skills develop. You still don't have any teeth but that's okay- I'm confident it is going to happen soon! You tried teething biscuits today and I must say, I think you are a fan! I'm pretty sure you have learned what no means. You make me laugh when I say it which is going to hurt me in the long run but I don't care. I say that because when I say no you look at me and shake your head and smile. It's just so cute - I can't help it :) Bath time has totally changed. You used to enjoy sitting in the tub and playing and now you can't stand to sit. You have to stand up. Teething has been brutal for you baby boy but I'm thankful you won't remember any of it. Unfortunately, your daddy and I will never be able to forget it! Your big debut as the ring bearer in your Aunt Jenn's wedding is vastly approaching and my fingers are crossed it will be a good day :) Just know you mean the world to your Daddy and I. Watching you grow, learn and change each day is such an amazing miracle and gift from the Lord. We love you sweet boy.

Love,
Mom & Dad

You and that tongue!!

You love looking out at the front door :)

Oh that smile melts my heart!!

Kleenex would have been nice...

Love those thighs!!!

Mom, I think that's enough pictures!!!

Tippy toes!

My first giveaway!!

2011-10-06T08:24:00.000-04:00

Hello all!

I am excited to present my first giveaway :) I would like to introduce a small business based out of Stockbridge, Georgia. Lindsey's Scraps to Smiles is new to the small business world and I am happy to feature Lindsey on my blog.

Lindsey's Scraps to Smiles has a variety of personalized and non-personalized items. There is a wide variety of hair bows for little girls. There are bow holders available as well. She has many signs available that are super cute. Whether it is for a Holiday or any sign in general she is happy to cater to your needs. She has items for babies, children and adults. Crotchet hats and headbands that are so cute for sweet babies or young girls :)

I can absolutely guarantee that she will personalize any item the way that you want it.

For this giveaway we have decided to go with a Halloween theme that I am convinced will not disappoint!!

Lindsey has graciously to provide one lucky winner with the items seen below!!

A Trick or Treat Sign
"Boo" Vanilla Scented Reed Diffuser
Monogrammed Candle
Halloween Bow
and a Monogrammed Tote bag

All of the items will be catered to the winner. With that being the case the items will be sent to the winner as soon as they are finished.

There are several ways to enter and earn additional entries:

"Like" Lindsey's Scraps to Smiles Facebook page and leave a comment saying Laura's Endless Thoughts sent me and indicate in your comment what your favorite item is :)
Become a Follower of my blog - Super easy - Just click Join this site
Subscribe to my blog via email (Just enter your email address and click subscribe)
Visit Scraps to Smiles on Etsy; Select your favorite item indicate it in a comment on my blog
Tweet about the giveaway by linking to my blog.

You do not need to leave a comment for each entry - To make it easier you can do it all in one but I will need to know what all you completed for the giveaway.

The giveaway will begin today, October 6 and end on Monday, October 17th. Winner will be announced on my blog and on Lindsey's Scraps to Smiles facebook page on October 18th. If we do not hear from the winner by October 20, we will select another winner.

*Remember to indicate in your comment what all you completed for additional entries.*

Thanks everyone and good luck!!

Laughter

2011-09-22T11:09:00.002-04:00

Love this little laugh.

Getting Peed on

2011-09-22T10:55:00.001-04:00

So I have come to the conclusion that it is extremely possible that I am going to get peed on every morning before coming to work. I am baffled at the fact when I go into get Landon and change him before leaving the house to drop him off that he still has to go to the restroom in the morning. I don't know why it baffles me but it does. Imagine if you will, I am fully dressed for work. I go into get Landon out of his crib and head to the living room. I then begin the diaper changing process. Take the old off to put on the new. Thinking surely - he only had 7 oz before bed it's now 7am - there's no way he still has any pee left. Do not be deceived, Mommy's to be - it's still there. Usually while I am grabbing the new diaper to put on him I hear a little stream above hitting my just shampooed carpet. I then think to myself, really? Once this happens - the thought crossed my mind - How much is on his clothes? Does it merit the changing of clothes? Those are merely thoughts - I always end up changing his outfit. I end up laughing about it on the way to work while being thankful it didn't get on me. It's easier to change his clothes then for me to throw something else together.

I love my little man but this is a whole new game for me - I accept the challenge of dodging urine at 7am. Bring it.

WAS looking forward to football

2011-09-11T16:27:00.001-04:00

Well, I always look forward to Fall for many reasons but one of the main reasons is football. College and NFL. Wow, is all I have after watching the two teams I cheer for lose. My Bulldogs are not looking promising...I mean to the point that Richt may be looking for a new job soon. So after watching them lose their first two games I was thinking well at least I've got my Falcons. After watching their season opener today I am left stunned. I really hope things get better for these teams because right now I am just bummed. I'll continue to be a fan obviously but it is more exciting to cheer for a winning team.

I will leave you with this: If you cheer for GA Tech, I hope you continue to smack talk about UGA considering they haven't played each other yet. Then I will find it hilarious when you eat your words in November.

That is all.

7 Months - Mobile!

2011-09-09T09:46:00.005-04:00

Now that you are mobile it is harder to get sitting still pictures :)

Dear Landon,
On August 30 you turned 7 months old and hit a new milestone - CRAWLING!! Once again, I was fortunate enough to catch it on camera. For readers, I know I keep telling you about all of these videos and not posting them for you just isn't right. Have no fear, I am planning to post them this weekend! Back to little man, crawling has definitely increased my exercising and cardio. You are keeping daddy and I on the move and we are loving every minute of it. You like your toys okay but you tend to crawl towards things you shouldn't. For example; laptops, phones, remotes, tv, etc. I guess you have an eye for expensive toys ;) You are also in the beginning stages of self feeding. Gerber puffs that dissolve in your mouth are your favorite. You get so proud of yourself. It always makes us smile when we get you out of your highchair and we see how many are stuck to your clothes or legs. You laugh and smile often. Sometimes it seems that you laugh for no reason but I am convinced that something happened. Something new you have started in the tub: You like to test just how far you can stick your face into the water. I'm scratching my head and where this came from but you like to make the motor boat noise and stick you mouth to the water. You keep me laughing :) However, when feeding you- I could go without the spitting motor boat :) You continue to grow each and every day right before our eyes. I pray for time to slow down to soak more of this stage up but it hasn't happened yet. You won't understand how much your daddy and I love you until you have children of your own. That's when it hit for your Dad and I. We would and will do anything for you baby boy. Looking forward to all of the Fall holidays with you. And guess what?? I already have your Halloween costume selected but readers will have to wait just a little bit longer:) Love you Landon!

Love,
Mom and Dad

You love to crawl up on my leg :)

Look at him go!

My sweet boy!!

Love those little thighs!

What's Up Sippy Cup

2011-08-19T08:51:00.000-04:00

Hey guys! Head over to the What's Up Sippy Cup Facebook page and wish them a Happy One Year Anniversary for a chance to win a free WUSC shirt!

What's Up Sippy Cup is a great website with any all things related to children. It was launched by my cousin Tina and her friend Jessie.

Feel free to check out their WEBSITE and don't forget to visit their facebook page :)

Good Luck!!

2011-08-18T20:55:00.001-04:00

6 Months?!?!?!

2011-08-18T09:05:00.002-04:00

Dear Landon,
I have lost all concept of time when it comes to how quickly you are growing right before my eyes. Every single day you do something new and something about you changes. You actually turned 6 months on July 30th so I am a little late but better late than never. At your 6 month check up you were 28 inches long and weighed 20 lbs and 6 oz. You're getting so big and I must admit from carrying you I thought your weight was going to be more :) So much has changed since 5 months. You are now reaching for anything and everything (Bye Bye coffee table decorations). You had prunes and peas for the first time and loved them both. You want to crawl so bad. You are to the point where you can push yourself up but you just rock. You'll figure it out soon baby boy. Mastering sitting up has made bath time pretty interesting. You don't like to lay down at all but when we do lay you down you make your dislike well known. On August 16, two days ago, you made my heart smile more than ever before. During bath time you called me Mama. It was so sweet and innocent. What is even greater is that I got it on video. I'm not sure what made me grab the camera but I am so glad I did. I'm sure Dad insist you are a traitor but I like to think of it as your a momma's boy at this time. I'm sure before long you will say Dada. You're going through a stage where you don't like to be put down which is making the evenings a little challenging. Help us out with this little man. Being put down doesn't mean you are loved any less - I promise! You talk all the time in your own language. You like it when your daddy mocks your language. You love to laugh and that laugh of yours melts my heart. We love you so much baby boy but I would ask that you slow down just a little for me.

Love,
Mom and Dad

Lets just say at your doctors appointment - You were a big fan of the paper!

You love this toy - Makes you feel like you are walking ;)

Attempting to take a picture of us :)

You love your green turtle (Compliments of Debbie and Greg Phillips) Thank you!!!

Still loving the paper :)

With your favorite teddy bear

Attempting a picture again - You were not cooperating :)

My sweet boy!

Bath time!

One of my faves - The "Who me?" look...

New Bedding

2011-08-03T14:00:00.002-04:00

I do not love our current Bedding - Doesn't look very young to me...

I think I am going to look at this one....

Thoughts and Feedback Appreciated!!

Moments that make a momma smile

2011-07-28T15:46:00.001-04:00

So I saw a picture on a friend's facebook and this was my comment to her photo, "Moments that make a momma smile." It got me thinking about how many things Landon does that cause me to grin.

My AC recently decided to stop working in my car thus I had to drive Chad's truck which little man could see me while I was driving. I couldn't help but glance over and when I did, I was greeted with sweet eyes peering in between the handle and shader on the car seat. As soon as our eyes meet - he smiles and I smile.

The funny positions he gets into and the funny faces he makes. Thank goodness for technology for allowing me to capture these moments for laughter and blackmail in the future.

He loves it when it is time to eat. This time however, he was obviously extremely tired thus the reason he fell asleep with food in his mouth.

I love it when he falls asleep in random positions. I almost want to move him because to me it would be uncomfortable but I never move him :)

The smiles we get before bath time melt my heart. He has a grin that lights me up on the inside. A grin that I look forward to seeing on the way home from work.

I could go on for days on things he does that make me smile but you would be reading for days...

Ridiculist

2011-07-14T09:59:00.000-04:00

Oh yes - You knew it was coming. Am I surprised by all of this coming to a point? No. I think when you bribe people with bonuses or anything involving money - most will go to the extreme to get it. Bottom line. We live in a money driven society. Just more bad publicity for Atlanta and our schools. I would love to hear thoughts from others on this.

5 Months!?!?!?

2011-07-06T09:07:00.000-04:00

Dear Landon,
Last Thursday you turned 5 months old. 5 months. I still don't believe it. So much has changed from 4 months. You are getting more and more comfortable rolling all over the place. You are sitting up now. Took you awhile to catch on but you are doing so well with that now. Your mouth is like a water park. The teething process began at 4 months and ever since then we just can't seem to keep you dry. You have certainly figured out how to make noises :) You like to make the motorboat sound with your lips and your slobber goes everywhere when you do it. You like to yelp out and see how loud you can get. You like for me to mock your noises. It makes you laugh. You love to laugh. You like to watch me drive in the car in the mornings. I can see you out of the corner of my eye leaning up to see over your car seat. Once I glance you smile :) Your smile melts my heart baby boy. You are not a fan of laying on your back now that you know you can sit up. Your temper flares in the tub when I have to lean you up to wash your back and then lay you back down...You get so mad. I can't help but giggle. You love squash and sweet potatoes :) We invested in the bumpo seat for you and your thunder thighs barely fit!! You are such a joy to your daddy and I. I can't wait to get home to get my hands on you. We love you little man. Try to slow down just a little for me :(

Love you,
Mom and Dad

Thoughts

2011-06-28T14:20:00.000-04:00

I really wish that my local radio stations would realize that there are more singers than Lady Gaga. I'm pretty sure I'm to the point where I would rather listen to Ice Ice baby on repeat all day long than hear her songs again. Nothing against her or her songs - Just tired of hearing them.
I have come to the harsh reality that one of my favorite shows is not that of a reality show. What show you ask? The Bachelor/Bachelorette. You may call me dumb that yes, I used to believe it was real. This terrible season has caused me to learn that it is fake. Sad sad day in the Reichert home.
My list of books to read is just getting longer with my lack of time to actually read.
I've always known this but I am seeing it more and more. Life is never a given. I know the Lord has his reasons but sometimes the shock value of things that happen - literately floor me. We recently lost our young sweet neighborhood with three kids to a terrible car accident. I didn't believe the news when I was told. Why do we put things off and say we'll do something later? I'll make that trip soon, we say. But do we ever really follow through. Life cannot be taken for granted. The events from the past month have caused me to do a harsh reality check on not worrying about my to-do list but about spending time and making memories with those I love.
Landon will be five months on Thursday - yes Thursday. Time can fly by right before your eyes. Treasure the moments, even the rough ones - where they appear to be screaming for no reason.
I take great pleasure in being able to calm Landon down. I feel like such a mommy when this happens. I honestly want to stand up, put my hands in the air and wait for an applause.
The world is a scary place. More and more everyday. Can I keep Landon in our home forever?
I'm thankful for my wonderfully, hilarious husband. He can always put a smile on my face - even when I don't want one there. Laughter is truly the greatest medicine to the end of a rough day.
When you AC in your car doesn't work and you live in Georgia - it can cause you to be slightly cranky.
I love my job - it is one of the greatest things that has ever happened to me. I am surrounded by amazing people of whom I think the world of.
I have a love/hate relationship with Pinterest. I love it but it causes me to slip away from reality and lose all sense of time.
The Marketing Department at work was asked to fill out a questionnaire. For what purpose, I have no idea but I was asked my favorite tv show growing up - Toss up between Saved by the Bell and Little House on the Prairie. First CD you ever owned - Debbie Gibson - Electric Youth!! Dinner with anyone - Dead or Alive, if you know me, you know I put Audrey Hepburn. Favorite quote, “For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.”-Audrey Hepburn

I know that was complete randomness with no rhyme or reason but it's just all the things on my mind today.

Little Annoyances in life

2011-06-23T14:12:00.001-04:00

there's a car alarm nearby that goes on for hours and the owner is nowhere to be found

there's a cop car in sight and everyone thinks they have to drive 10-15 mph slower than the speed limit

you're reading a magazine and all those annoying little subscription cards keep falling out

you tell someone that a door is locked and they try to open it anyway, like it'll magically open for them and not you.

someone says, "well, to make a long story short" and then they go on telling it for another 15 minutes.

a friend or family member says "Yuck! This is awful!!" and then tells you to try some.

you have to inform five different sales people in the same store that you're just looking around.

you rub on hand cream and can't turn the bathroom doorknob to get out.

there's a dog in your neighborhood that barks at EVERYTHING.

Someone gets in the express lane at the supermarket and writes a check or uses a credit card.

the elevator stops at every floor and nobody gets on.

The phrase, "Believe you me." It just doesn't make sense.

Text talk - OMG, IDK, ILY should not be used in every day conversation...

Ridiculist

2011-06-22T14:12:00.000-04:00

If you watch the show - you understand. I do not need to further explain. It's all in the title of this post.

Baby Dedication

2011-06-16T09:49:00.002-04:00

On Mother's day we committed in front of God and our Church to raise Landon in a Christian home. I was thrilled to be able to do this on Mother's day. My first Mother's day that is ;) We were given a certificate with the life verse we chose for Landon and the meaning of this name. I love the name Landon. I have ever since I completed the book, A Walk to Remember by Nicholas Sparks. I guess when you pick a name for your child you want the meaning of their name to have this amazing meaning. Well, upon researching the name Landon - it basically means, Long Hill. Long Hill? Really? Not exciting at all. So....We went with the meaning of Reichert, Strong One. Much better :) The life verse we chose for Landon is my hearts' desire for him:

"The Lord will guide you continually, giving you water when you are dry and restoring your strength. You will be like a well-watered garden like an ever-flowing spring." Isaiah 58:11

Which oddly enough is the same life verse selected for his destined best friend, Trenton :) Great minds think alike Molly!

Love my little man :)

Pastor Mel and his beautiful wife Gina :)

Landon smiling at my Dad :)

Great family shot!

Baby dedication was a beautiful experience. Chad and I are committed to raising Landon in a Christ loving home :)

4 months!!

2011-06-08T13:22:00.000-04:00

He's a momma's boy :)

Landon and Aunt Jenn

Landon chowing down on apples

Play date with my buddy Walker :)

Dear Landon,

You hit the four month mark on Memorial Day baby boy! I have to constantly wrap my head around how you are growing each and every day. You had a wonderful four month check up weighing in at whopping 17.9 lbs and 26 inches in length. 90'th percentile for weight and 85th for height! Rock on baby boy! You were not a fan of the four month shots. Watching the panic in your eyes made me tear up. She told us we could start you on solids twice a day...I didn't offer up that we had been for about two weeks prior but you were hungry :) You are totally rolling over and trying desperately to crawl. Your best attempts come when you get frustrated during tummy time and you stick your booty up in the air and dig. Not there yet but you will be soon, I'm sure! You are sitting up decently. You pull up all the time. You want to so bad. So determined in everything you do. I can see now that you are going to be such a determined young man :) You have begun the wonderful phase of teething. Drooling like crazy and chewing on everything. Any toy or stuffed animal goes straight to the mouth...every time - never fails. You experienced the lake for the first time. You didn't seem to mind it. You did however stare at the water and I think you were trying to figure out why the water looked different from bath time!! You laugh more and more each day. Your eyes make me melt. I love to see you grow and learn new things all the time. It's amazing. To think you were in my tummy four months ago - God is amazing. We love you baby boy!

Love,
Mom and Dad <3

Free Baby Sling!!

2011-06-06T11:29:00.000-04:00

Free Baby Sling when you use code FAMILY2011!!! All you pay is $12.00 Shipping!! Great deal!!! Ordered the blue one this morning! So excited!!! Great shower gift as well!!

Hilarious!

2011-06-02T15:43:00.000-04:00

Now this is funny!!! Thanks Amber!!!

Ridiculist

2011-06-02T13:27:00.000-04:00

If these two are supposedly dating I have to add it to the list. I have no clue of the validity of this but it would totally gross me out. Justin is 30 while Ashley is 24....Age factor not gross. Unfortunately for Miss. Ashley - When I look at her I still see Michelle and that makes it icky for me. ha!

Highlights from our Wedding

2011-05-24T09:31:00.000-04:00

Laura & Chad Wedding Hi*Lites from John Felbinger on Vimeo.

This video makes me smile and cry all at the same time. Such a happy day for us :) We had an amazing time!

His laughter makes my heart smile

2011-05-18T10:11:00.000-04:00

Last night, oh my goodness, Landon was cracking up. This is the hardest we have heard him laugh. We introduced a new toy that makes squeak noises and we are pretty sure he likes the new toy :) Enjoy!

Ridiculist

2011-05-12T08:54:00.000-04:00

There are so many things I find to be ridiculous on The Jersey Shore that I would be blogging for days. I will admit I have probably watched this show a handful of times. Sometimes as a result of nothing else being on. Towards the end of pregnancy there wasn't much sleep taking place and many late nights. I still cannot fully wrap my head around the fact that there are people in the world like this. Why oh why did MTV agree to pay them $100,000 per episode for the next season???? At times all I can come up with is wow. So in essence - The Jersey Shore has made my Ridiculist for the week.

The duck phone makes me laugh. These people are seriously from the Jersey Shore and always looking for a fight and more often than not they take place on the phone. So here they are like yelling and screaming into a duck. And it totally quacks when it rings.

and these glasses I have no words but no.

Easter

2011-05-11T08:35:00.000-04:00

I wish I could share with you all of these wonderful family pictures from Easter where Landon is happy and smiling. I'm learning that you cannot plan for good family pictures when they are so young....He was so tired and we were probably outside for all of 15 minutes and in that time frame he finally crashed! But I must be honest, these pictures bring a smile to my face :) Here are the pictures from Landon's first Easter!!

This is my favorite family photo so far!! hahaha!

3 Months Already?!?!?

2011-05-03T12:44:00.002-04:00

Dear Landon,

On Saturday you turned 3 months old which is still so hard for me to wrap my head around. You are getting so big and long. Your daddy and I measured you last week and you were 27 inches long. I know you have to be over 15 lbs (easily). Since I last wrote to you, your personality is coming out more and more! You have started laughing and your little laugh absolutely melts my heart. Your laugh can fill a room with smiles. Your daddy can get you to laugh pretty easily but you make me work a little harder for it. Out of all the animal noises so far your favorite is the pig. Lucky mom gets to make that noise but only in private for you ;) You love bath time still, it seems to relax you. So much so that you fall asleep sometimes when you are in there. You like to go to sleep on my shoulder which I love. When you do I can hear you breathing in my ear and that alone makes me smile. You are trying so hard to sit up. You do not like laying down anymore. You like to be propped up with pillows on our bed and I looked over Saturday morning and you were sitting up. Not for long but you definently were! You like to watch the television. Your favorite show is one that comes on PBS about cartoon dinosaurs and I think it has to do with how colorful it is. You are sleeping really well at night which makes me one happy momma! You sleep for a good 7-8 hour stretch. You like to sit in your walker. Your head bobs around but you like sitting up so you deal with it :) The love your daddy and I have for you grows everyday. We love you little man!

Love,
Mom and Dad

Landon made his television debut!

2011-04-22T13:03:00.002-04:00

My friend Sheri told me about this segment that Fox 5 in Atlanta does and told me to submit a certain picture of Landon. I did and he made the 10:00 news last night!

So fun!!!

RidicuList

2011-04-20T13:10:00.000-04:00

So there are many things I hear throughout the day that I just cannot wrap my head around. Things that leave me confused, scratching my head or just flat out cause me to laugh out loud. We all have these however some just may not be as vocal as I may be about them. This will be something I will blog about every Wednesday. I will pick one thing that I have heard, seen or watched and post on it. If you recognize the tagline then you know I stole it. From who you ask? Anderson Cooper. I loved the name and honestly I'm just not that creative so deal with it. I would love some feedback on this to let me know what you think...

I hope you find it entertaining, light-hearted and a mid-week break for distressing.

Here we go... The RidicuList First Installment

Why Oh Why would Scarlett Johanson

Go From this

to this???

I just don't get it. Personally, not a big fan of hers anyway but this...Really?

Pure Stupidity.

Not trying to rag on Sean Penn. Love him as an actor.

This post is based on looks alone. Shallow I know.

Happy Anniversary

2011-04-19T09:07:00.000-04:00

So Chad and I are celebating 2 wonderful years of marriage today. I cannot believe it has already been two years! Where does time go? I fall more and more in love with Chad everyday. He keeps me laughing and smiling even when I'm not in the greatest of moods. I love seeing him as a father and how he does baby talk to Landon. It melts my heart. I don't think w have any big plans to celebrate but the beauty is, for us - we don't have to. I'll just pray for Landon to cooperate and give us a nice evening at home so I can enjoy my little family.

Landon wishing Mommy and Daddy a Happy Anniversary!!!

Landon Laughing!!

2011-04-13T11:31:00.002-04:00

So Landon sounds absolutely precious and Chad's laugh is pretty frightening!!!

He makes me Smile

2011-04-11T09:47:00.000-04:00

We tried the carrier one afternoon - needlesstosay he didn't care for it yet!

He slept with his hand on his face like this for 45 minutes!

Sweet Boy

He melts my heart.

Love it when these eyes look at me :)

Police Pepper Spray an 8 year old boy

2011-04-06T09:33:00.000-04:00

I watched this interview this morning on Good Morning America and after watching this young boy and his mother I found myself thinking the police did the right thing. I felt like this mom was in denial and wanting to point fingers at everyone but herself. She needs to get this boy the help that he needs and deserves so he has a chance. The mom indicated she wished the police would have waited for her to get there...well, he was threatening to kill the teachers and the police with a sharp object and who's to say he wouldn't do anything??? Would love some other thoughts on this story. I found myself shaking my head this morning watching this...

Bath Time

2011-03-30T08:54:00.001-04:00

Happy 2 Months Landon!

2011-03-29T10:05:00.001-04:00

Dear Landon,

Today you are officially two months old. My how things have changed. You are so alert and you follow daddy and I so closely around the room. You know our voices and get excited when you hear them. You have a smile that makes me melt. You have started to enjoy bath time and often times you fall asleep while we bath you. We are so anxious to hear you laugh so please speed that up for us! Your not a fan of tummy time but we have to do it. You won't remember it so were not worried about the scarring it will leave! At your two month check up- you weighed in at 13 lbs 10 oz. and 23 inches long. Mom sure would love for you to allow her to put you down every now and then (Atleast to eat). Her back is beginning to feel it. You are not so little anymore. You took your shots like a Champ! Your reward was the bottle but soon it will be suckers :) I think you are learning how to use the bottom lip pout to get what you want. Surprised you are learning this so early but hey (Chad and I are your parents ;). You still enjoy riding in the car and moving around. You do not like to look at the back of a chair - You like to look out. Your daddy makes you smile the most when he acts silly. You love being in the nursery at church. You attended your first wedding shower and my oh my how you flirted with the ladies! Daddy and I love you very much. We learn something new about you every day. Bare with us - I think we are getting a little better at this.

Love,

Mom and Dad

Landon's Arrival Continued

2011-03-16T11:30:00.001-04:00

Once we got to the Hospital and told them my water broke we were shown to our room. Once we got to the room I was given my huge gown. I then crawled into bed and there was water on the floor. Thankfully, a wonderful woman came in and had to mop it up. The ridiculously long check-in process began. I knew the contractions were going to start hurting since I had released the Pacific Ocean. All I wanted was my epidural but I had to wait to get checked in. Did I say the contractions were going to start hurting? Forgive me - That was an understatement. I like to think I have a pretty decent pain tolerance but good Lord! Those jokers are rough. They pretty much began hurting when we got to the hospital around 9:30pm and they were coming every minute and lasting for a minute so I was not getting much relief or time to re-cooperate. I was trying to be strong and take them like a champ but I'm sure I looked pretty crazy when they were coming. I caught Chad laughing a few times at me. I'd like to see how he would handle them but I will never know! It took 2 hours for me to get my epidural. 2 hours of contractions. I didn't even feel the epidural go in but after I got it I could have done a little dance! After getting it, I cannot imagine for the life of me why anyone would want to experience those. I don't get it but I don't judge either. Whatever floats your boat - I however am in love with the epidural. Enough about that. Throughout the evening I continued to dialate and was constantly told to rest, that I would need it. Sleep and the Hospital just don't go together. My blood pressure was getting checked every 10 minutes, alarms going off, machines beeping constantly and the nurse coming in every 5 minutes.

Speaking of the nurse - not impressed. The doctor on call, it was the first time I met her and I was not impressed. Unfortunately, we had to deal with them until 7am but I saw light at the end of the tunnel. I kept telling Landon to hold off until 7am. Why you ask? Because the wonderful Dr. Turner who I had seen throughout the pregnancy would be there and we would get a new nurse. Funny story - There was something beeping really loud in our room at one point and the nurse ran in and asked us what the noise was. I was thinking seriously. How in the world would I know? Chad's response - "I don't know - I don't work here." Oh, how I love that man. At another point, something else was beeping and she came in and asked us which of my IV bags was empty - Again, no clue. It was pretty frustrating.

So 7am rolled around and instantly a new nurse came in and Dr. Turner came in the room. It was like a beam of light filled the room. Totally different experience immediately! When they walked out after we talked - Chad literally stood up and started dancing which made me crack up laughing. After that, It was a pretty long day. Chad was going out periodically and updating family and friends that were there. I continued to dialate but waiting to get to 10 cm seemed like an eternity. If memory serves me correct, I think I started pushing about 12:30ish. It was so strange pushing but not really being able to feel anything. Thank you epidural! I felt like I was pushing with all my might and he was so close to coming - atleast that's what I was told. They kept telling me how great I was doing so I kept thinking I'm going to hear my son crying soon. I pushed and pushed for two hours. Then it changed. Dr. Turner came in and monitored my pushing and she got a look of concern on her face. It scared me but I kept pushing. Then she informed me that I had a fever and Landon's heart was going into distress during my contractions. With these two factors she insisted we do a C-section to prevent him from getting a fever or something more serious happening. Instantly, I couldn't help but feel like I failed and I began to cry. I think it was a mix of exhaustion and panic.

It didn't take long for them to prep me for the C-section but I had to sign all of these papers. Chad had to wait in the room while they took me and then they would go get him. The room was all white and the bed they moved me onto was incredibly small. They began to get me all doped up. I was so out of it. I remember a guy telling me he would let me know when they were going to start since all I could see was a blue sheet. As soon as he said that, he told me she started but I paniced and asked where Chad was?!?! He left the room and got Chad. I needed him. So I felt the pressure which was crazy but not the cutting. It was so strange. Within minutes, my whole body moved up and then got pulled down. Instantly, I felt my stomach shrink and I heard a loud cry (which I hear everyday now ;) Tears filled mine and Chad's eyes. All I wanted to do was see him and hold him but still only the blue sheet. Chad went to see him and I was informed that the little booger was 8 lbs 7 oz. How in the world did that happen?!? No wonder my stomach didn't drop - there was no where for him to go!! No wonder he was in my rib cage!! So at 3:24pm my little man entered the world with a loud set of lungs :) 19 hours of labor and that's not counting Friday. After they cleaned him up the nurse brought him over to me. What a moment that I will never forget. He was perfect. The bonding was instant. He knew I was his mommy. Then they left and I finished getting sewn up. I actually fell asleep during this. Onto recovery! I remember laying there leaving the room and I asked the nurse if I could take off my Oh so sexy shower cap. She laughed and said just a minute ;) I was only in recovery for an hour. All I wanted to do was hold him. Chad brought my mom's camera to me because she had video of him in the nursery. As I watched this, I couldn't hold back the tears. He was so alert and wide-eyed. He was just beautiful. The video at the bottom is the one I watched from my mom's camera :)

I finally got to leave recovery and I remember heading down the hallway and seeing our entourage there ;) I was so out of it and I'm sure I looked it - haha. I got to my room and got all hooked up and then she asked if I wanted Landon. Well of course! She brought him in and words cannot describe my feelings as I held him and looked at him. I was so thankful that he was healthy and that God never left my side. Sitting there with my little family my love for Chad was through the roof. I love the fact that God knew Chad and I would fall in love and create such a handsome son. Brings tears to my eyes just typing that. God is so good and we are going to raise Landon in a home filled with more love than he can imagine.

Chad and I want to thank everyone for their love and support throughout this adventure. It has been long but so worth it and I would do it again tomorrow. Chad and I are overwhelmed with how much we are loved but we are truly blessed to have a son that is loved far more than he knows.

Walking the halls on Friday night

Exhausted Friday Night

My Mom and Dad on Friday night

Sunday in the nursery

Sunday in the Nursery

Wide eyed - Ready for the World

My Father in law Joey but to Landon - Big Daddy

Aunt Jennifer with Landon

Proud Daddy

Proud Grandmother :)

Big Daddy with Landon

Aunt Jennifer :)

Proud Grandfather :)

Landon with his Great Grandmother, Honey :)

Aunt Brenda and proud Grandmother :)

Tara, one of my co-workers, with Landon :)

Group shot!

Uncle Clay and Grandmother :)

Landon's First Video and my first real glimpse of my son :)

One Month already?!?!?

2011-03-08T10:03:00.000-05:00

Dear Landon,

I can't believe it has already been a month since you came into our lives. You are now 11 lbs 1 oz and 23 inches long. You just continue to grow before my eyes. I see things about you changing every day. Your eyes and smile make me melt. You have my dimples :) You like bath time when you have a full tummy. You make it well known when you are ready to eat. I'm positive the neighbors know too :) You like to sleep in your room and you love music. We just recently found out you like suckers (Thanks to your Daddy). You have already rolled over several times and even the pediatrician cannot get over how strong you are. You don't like socks. Your hair is a mess and I love it :) You don't like to be by yourself for very long. You love riding in the car and like your mother you like to listen to Justin Beiber! Your skin is gorgeous. You have your daddy's fingers and toes. You make so many faces and have many different noises. You make noises all night in your sleep. I love to catch you smiling in your sleep - It makes me wonder what you are dreaming about. I can't lie to you - This first month has been pretty rough but I can't imagine our life without you. Your amazing and I thank God for you :) Your dad and I are learning as we go so try to go easy on us. We're new to this. We promise to do the very best we can :) We love you Landon Thomas!

Love,

Mom and Dad

Landon's Arrival

2011-02-22T09:45:00.000-05:00

Yes, I have been MIA now for about 3 and a half weeks. So I knew things were going to change but I'm pretty sure now that was an understatement. Landon has totally rocked our world but I wouldn't have it any other way.

I thought I would start back blogging on the story of Landon's arrival. I think it has some funny parts (especially if you know Chad and I) and for me it was pretty emotional.

On Friday, January 28th I met my mom and Honey (Grandmother) for a pedicure. Much needed and I have a new respect for the calf massage during pregnancy! It was late afternoon so I headed home afterwards. I got home a little after 6pm. Chad was working on the lawnmower in the back when I got home. I talked to him for a little bit and headed inside. As I sat there on the couch I noticed that my tummy got pretty tight for about 30 seconds and went back to normal. I called Chad and told him - I'm pretty sure I just had a contraction. He told me what I knew and that was to write down the time and just keep up with it. He came inside about 10 minutes later and I had another one when he got inside. He went ahead and had his shower and by the time he got out, they were about 6 minutes apart. I started getting excited, nervous, panic - all of these things were going through my mind. I called my doctors office and thank God my doctor was the one on call and she called and confirmed that she was confident that I was in prelabor and that I should come in.

We got in the car and started heading to the hospital. We contacted family to let them know what was going on but that we were not 100% sure what was going on so they may just want to sit tight. Once we got there, they examined me and I was at 1 and a half cm dilated. They told me they would check again in about an hour and I was welcome to walk or go get something to eat. Understand me when I say I have never walked so much in my life. We went down to the CFA and I didn't sit down at all. I walked while I ate my food and my feet were feeling it. I'm pretty sure that I had the Mac Daddy of swollen feet during my pregnancy. We got back to the room and I could barely get my shoes off. After my next check I was at 2-2 1/2 cm. Again, I was told they would check again in an hour. I was ready for the booger to come so we went walking again. By this point our families had arrived and we went out to the lobby and I think I walked the floor with every member of my family that night. After my next check there was no change but they told me I was welcome to stay and they would check me in the morning. I'm not a big fan of sleeping at hospitals because there is no sleep taking place. So I opted to go home and they gave me something to help me sleep. Disappointed and tired we left and spent the night at home.

Saturday was very strange. I went the whole day experiencing my stomach tightening and releasing. Not a feeling I am used to and it was a long day of keeping track. At this point, it was a total waiting game. I made it through the day and tried to take it easy but I did clean out my car. I didn't want Landon in a dirty car ;) That night, Chad and I were online playing Call of Duty with friends and I had my legs propped up. We decided to get off and eat the jello I made earlier. So we got off and I remember Chad called our friend Jeremy and told him we were done playing for the night and that we would call if anything changed with me. Chad came in the kitchen and I handed him two bowls and that's when it happened. I felt my water break just slightly at first. I looked and Chad and said, "I'm pretty sure my water just broke..." I then ran to the bathroom and I won't go into detail but that is exactly what happened. From the bathroom all I could see in the kitchen was Chad running back and forth trying to get everything together in the kitchen. So, I'm in Chad's PJ pants and they are soaked but we get in the car (without the Jello) and head towards the hospital. I contacted family and friends and after that I spent the car ride trying to wrap my head around the fact that I was going to be meeting my son very soon. Chad was very calm except for when he got behind a slow person. I was just mad that we left the jello out and didn't bring it - I really wanted my jello! We arrived at hospital and Chad dropped me off at the entrance. As I got out - I was soaked and I made my way in, leaving a trail for Chad to find me. As I am waddling down the hallway I got smiles from women who understood and looks of confusion from the men I passed. So we began the process of checking in again.

This is all I can get in of the story for the moment and I will post the rest soon...

To be continued...

Here are a few pictures:)

Landon Thomas Reichert is here!!!

2011-02-02T15:49:00.000-05:00

Landon Thomas Reichert is finally here! He came into the world on January 30 at 3:24 p.m. weighing 8 lbs

7 oz and 20.5 inches long :)

I'll have a bigger post soon but for now this is all I can do :)

39 Weeks! Come on Landon!

2011-01-28T08:10:00.000-05:00

Your baby's waiting to greet the world! He continues to build a layer of fat to help control his body temperature after birth, but it's likely he already measures about 20 inches and weighs a bit over 7 pounds, a mini watermelon. (Boys tend to be slightly heavier than girls.) The outer layers of his skin are sloughing off as new skin forms underneath.

Introducing Mr. Landon Thomas Reichert's Room!

2011-01-26T09:04:00.000-05:00

Good Morning All! Yes, I am still pregnant and swollen :) My feet = Yuck! I tried to talk to Landon last night and tell him to come on but he's being a stubborn little booger! I know he will come when he is good and ready but I need him to understand how excited I am to hold my son. I keep trying to wrap my head around the fact that I will be holding my son within the next week or so. It brings tears to my eyes just typing that.

Below you will see Landon's Room! I know Chad doesn't think that Winnie the Pooh is masculine but I was going for gender neutral and I think Winnie the Pooh rocks! I wish I could say there is an actual theme but it has a some different themes floating around! I was going to take a picture of the inside of the closet but I decided not to. The boy has got so many clothes, diapers, and toys in there!!

Hope you enjoy the video and pictures!

38 Weeks!!

2011-01-21T20:51:00.000-05:00

Courtesy of Baby Center:

Your baby has really plumped up. He weighs about 6.8 pounds and he's over 19 1/2 inches long (like a leek). He has a firm grasp, which you'll soon be able to test when you hold his hand for the first time! His organs have matured and are ready for life outside the womb.

Wondering what color your baby's eyes will be? You may not be able to tell right away. If he's born with brown eyes, they'll likely stay brown. If he's born with steel gray or dark blue eyes, they may stay gray or blue or turn green, hazel, or brown by the time he's 9 months old. That's because a child's irises (the colored part of the eye) may gain more pigment in the months after he's born, but they usually won't get "lighter" or more blue. (Green, hazel, and brown eyes have more pigment than gray or blue eyes.)

I reached the 38 week mark yesterday! Had a great appointment with the doctor yesterday! Everything is progressing naturally which is a good sign! She is thinking that Landon will be in the 8lb family and she doesn't foresee any problems for the delivery! All good signs! I go back on Monday and my fingers are crossed we will be meeting Landon very soon!

Chick-fil-A Baby Shower in Pictures!

2011-01-18T09:18:00.003-05:00

I cannot thank all those who helped with this shower enough! It was truly amazing! Chad and I left in amazement of everything that happened! A few highlights I would like to share; L.J. and the quotes he found on being a parent:
• The trouble with learning to parent on the job is that your child is the teacher. ~Robert Brault
• It kills you to see them grow up. But I guess it would kill you quicker if they didn't. ~Barbara Kingsolver
• It sometimes happens, even in the best of families, that a baby is born. This is not necessarily cause for alarm. The important thing is to keep your wits about you and borrow some money. ~Elinor Goulding Smith
• Babies are always more trouble than you thought - and more wonderful. ~Charles Osgood
• People who say they sleep like a baby usually don't have one. ~Leo J. Burke
• Adam and Eve had many advantages, but the principal one was that they escaped teething. ~Mark Twain, Pudd'nhead Wilson, 1894
• A baby is a blank cheque made payable to the human race. ~Barbara Christine Seifert
• A baby is God's opinion that the world should go on. ~Carl Sandburg
• If you were to open up a baby's head - and I am not for a moment suggesting that you should - you would find nothing but an enormous drool gland. ~Dave Barry
• There is only one pretty child in the world, and every mother has it. ~Chinese Proverb
• You don't really understand human nature unless you know why a child on a merry-go-round will wave at his parents every time around - and why his parents will always wave back. ~William D. Tammeus
• Making the decision to have a child is momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking around outside your body. ~Elizabeth Stone
• Don't worry that children never listen to you; worry that they are always watching you. ~Robert Fulghum
Then we had an awesome visit from the One and Only - Bob Barker!! We played a little Price is Right which I have to admit Chad and I didn't do all that great!
It was truly a One of a Kind Baby Shower and I am so thankful to work with such amazing people!

Now onto the pictures...

21 Days to go/37 Weeks!!

2011-01-13T09:43:00.000-05:00

Courtesy of Baby Center:

Your baby is now considered "full term," even though your due date is three weeks away. If you go into labor now, his lungs will likely be mature enough to fully adjust to life outside the womb. (Some babies need a bit more time, though. So if you're planning to have a repeat c-section, for example, your practitioner will schedule it for no earlier than 39 weeks unless there's a medical reason to intervene earlier.)

Your baby weighs 6 1/3 pounds and measures a bit over 19 inches, head to heel (like a stalk of Swiss chard). Many babies have a full head of hair at birth, with locks from 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches long. But don't be surprised if your baby's hair isn't the same color as yours. Dark-haired couples are sometimes thrown for a loop when their children come out as blonds or redheads, and fair-haired couples have been surprised by Elvis look-alikes. And then, of course, some babies sport only peach fuzz.

This is has been one crazy week here in Atlanta! I have been stuck in the house since Friday of last week after my shower at work...I came down with a cold Thursday night and went home after my shower and didn't move from the recliner all weekend. If you know me - you know that my sinuses def get the best of me so I was pretty miserable! After taking what I was told I could by my doctor it wasn't getting better and I ended up with an upper respiratory infection and they had to call in a Z-pack for me. Which was fine and dandy but if you have watched the news you know that we got a ridiculous amount of ice in Atlanta this weekend. Thankfully Matt was able to get out of his driveway and came to get Chad to get my medicine at Kroger, the only pharmacy open! Chad finally was able to go to work today thankfully I was able to work from home while we were "iced in." I am at work today - still not 100% but I can tell the antibiotic is working!

Yesterday I had my 37 week check-up where we found out he is head down and we hope he stays that way! She is still putting him in the 7 lbs range and everything is going great! I was hoping and praying that I didn't go into labor earlier this week. That would have been a mess! The nursery is almost ready and I will be so relieved when we have everything put up and in it's place. We have washed his little clothes and tiny tiny socks...Everything is coming together and we are anxiously awaiting our little man's arrival :)

28 Days to go/36 Weeks!!!

2011-01-06T09:26:00.002-05:00

Courtesy of Baby Center:

Your baby is still packing on the pounds — at the rate of about an ounce a day. He now weighs almost 6 pounds (like a crenshaw melon) and is more than 18 1/2 inches long. He's shedding most of the downy covering of hair that covered his body as well as the vernix caseosa, the waxy substance that covered and protected his skin during his nine-month amniotic bath. Your baby swallows both of these substances, along with other secretions, resulting in a blackish mixture, called meconium, will form the contents of his first bowel movement.

At the end of this week, your baby will be considered full-term. (Full-term is 37 to 42 weeks; babies born before 37 weeks are pre-term and those born after 42 are post-term.) Most likely He's in a head-down position. But if he isn't, your practitioner may suggest scheduling an "external cephalic version," which is a fancy way of saying she'll try to coax your baby into a head-down position by manipulating him from the outside of your belly.

Hard to believe how close we are getting to meeting our son. Craziness! I had my check-up with the doctor on Tuesday and everything is going perfectly. I am measuring where I need to and his heart rate is where they want it. We will not have another ultrasound but she estimated using my weight gain and what I am measuring to put Landon in the 7lbs range :) I described a stomach pain/tightening to her that I had last week and she informed it was a contraction. She told me to just monitor them and once I hit 5-6 within an hour I know what I need to do!! So Surreal!!! I have converted to wearing my tennis shoes everyday to do swelling and needing more support for my feet and legs. My "Chicken Legs" as Chad calls them are struggling as Landon gets bigger. Tuesday night this week was by far the worst night so far. I was wide awake at 2:30am and just miserable. I moved to the couch and watched Law and Order til 5:30am...Fell asleep after Chad left for an hour and work up for work...Yuck! I know this is preparing me for what lies ahead but I could go without the indegestion, ha! I think it was excitement too. We washed the newborn clothes and blankets. We also put the car seat in the car along with my bag for the Hospital. I think this had a hand in my lack of sleep. I'm just getting so stinking excited to meet my little guy. Seeing his clothes needing to be put away in the clothes basket just gives me butterflies :)
I have my baby shower at work tomorrow and I am super excited about this!! Can't wait to celebrate with my friends at work!! I'll post pictures from the shower once I have them! I hope everyone has a wonderful weekend!

**Please keep my friend Janna's Mom in your prayers. She was like another mom for me growing up and it hurts to see her going through everything she is. I won't go into all the details on here but I will post her Caring Bridge. Belinda is a fighter and an amazing woman. I have no doubt she is going to beat everything facing her right now but I believe in the power of prayer and I know she feels the love and prayer surrounding her.**

http://www.caringbridge.org/visit/belindamlusk

35 DAYS to go/35 Weeks!!!

2010-12-30T15:30:00.000-05:00

Courtesy of Baby Center:

Your baby doesn't have much room to maneuver now that he's over 18 inches long and tips the scales at 5 1/4 pounds (pick up a honeydew melon). Because it's so snug in your womb, he isn't likely to be doing somersaults anymore, but the number of times he kicks should remain about the same. His kidneys are fully developed now, and his liver can process some waste products. Most of his basic physical development is now complete — he'll spend the next few weeks putting on weight.

I have to be honest here people; I am not sleeping very good, my lower back is killing me, by the end of the day my feet look gross from swelling and I have never had this much indigestion in my entire life! However, I know I will forget all about that once I am holding Landon for the first time. I plan to start counting down days rather than weeks...I think 35 days sounds much better than 5 weeks!! Crazy to think it is getting so close!! The holidays made it go by so quick! We had a wonderful Christmas with family and we hope that you did too!!

My first painting = SUCCESS!

2010-12-16T20:32:00.000-05:00

So Monday was fantastic and so much fun! We had a Christmas Team Retreat planned by the wonderful Leslie and she planned a wonderful day! Starting with breakfast at J. Christophers...YUM! We then went to a class where we had to pick out a picture to paint and we started with a white canvas. I was a little nervous at first about the thought of that but it was sooo much fun! We had a lot of good laughs throughout the experience! The teachers allowed us to pick which colors we wanted so I went with yellow, red and orange. Inspired from my dishes and kitchen at the house. All of the pictures turned out fantastic and I was very pleased with mine. After we finished our pictures we finished the day off with lunch at Verde! Cheese dip was some of the best I have EVER had. If you know me or read my blog enough you know that I could basically live off of Mexican everyday. If I could hook an IV up to my arm and have salsa and cheese dip daily I would be one happy woman! We did our gift exchange and everyone got such wonderful gifts! Let's say these women know each other very well! My Secret Santa did fantastic! I got the new Rachael Ray Cookbook, Christmas Kitchen Towels, Shower Gels, Babe Ruth, Brownies, and a Baby ornament! I loved all of it! It was a fnatastic day and I love getting to know these ladies more and more each day! I am truly blessed!!

Chad wasted no time when I got home with my picture and it was hanging in the kitchen Monday night. I think he was shocked and didn't believe me at first :) He was proud of his woman! If you ever get the opportunity to take the Canvas class I would strongly encourage it! It was so much fun!

33 Weeks!

2010-12-16T09:36:00.000-05:00

33 Weeks Courtesy of Baby Center:

This week your baby weighs a little over 4 pounds (heft a pineapple) and has passed the 17-inch mark. He's rapidly losing that wrinkled, alien look and his skeleton is hardening. The bones in his skull aren't fused together, which allows them to move and slightly overlap, thus making it easier for him to fit through the birth canal. (The pressure on the head during birth is so intense that many babies are born with a conehead-like appearance.) These bones don't entirely fuse until early adulthood, so they can grow as his brain and other tissue expands during infancy and childhood.

I cannot wrap my head around how quickly the weeks are flying by. Here we are so close to Christmas and 7 weeks away from meeting Landon. Serious butterflies of excitement in my tummy! We are working to get his room ready a little bit here and there. Work in progress so still no pictures yet ;) Soon! I am doing good the only thing I am having issues with are sleeping. I'm honestly only uncomfortable when I lay down at night. It's getting a little better since I started stretching before I get in the bed but looking forward to being able to sleep on my tummy again :) Chad has been super sweet the more uncomfortable I get. He keeps me laughing all the time and life is just amazing! I have my next appointment next week so I will have another update soon :) Have a great day!

Christmas Tree, New Stove and 32 Weeks!!

2010-12-10T10:10:00.001-05:00

Whew! The holidays are flying by! Between work, Christmas parties and other festivities I am all over the place.
I'll start with a few pictures from our Marketing Department Christmas Party. We went to the Atlanta History Center and had a wonderful dinner followed by self guided tours. It was a very nice evening! We had such a fun group at our table for dinner!!

We got our Christmas tree up and decorated last week. I must say usually I am on the ball with Christmas decorating but with my lack of energy this year it was a much slower process...Last year we had icicle lights outlining our house and this go around Chad has been working every weekend for awhile now and it was just too much to try and get in. This is what our house looked like last year with the lights:

Our Christmas tree this year :) I don't have a theme and I probably never will :) I like to use ornaments that have meaning and I am sure before too long our tree is going to be filled with ornaments made by a little boy named Landon!

Our new stove was delivered!!! Yipee!! The stove on our old one worked but the oven would heat up to all kinds of crazy temperatures and we were told by someone that came and looked at it...The computer on it was broke and for what we would pay him to fix that we should just get a new one. Which is exaclty what we did...I have been without an oven since last Christmas :( I love baking so this has been a long year so I began making up for it with Lasagna and Chocolate Chip Cookies! Ahhh! Cookies straight from the oven - I may have over indulged but it was well worth it!

Now onto Pregnancy Stuff; I hit 32 weeks yesterday! :) Got a great report from the doctor which I never take for granted. It is a blessing to hear everytime I go. I am measuring perfect and Landon's heartbeat was 146 yesterday. He was showing out though. When she put the tool on my stomach to hear his heartbeat he started kicking it away, which made me laugh! I am growing more and more curious with each week as to who Landon will look like! We now have his crib and chest put together so his room is coming together but we still have a ways to go :) Pictures soon to come once we have it finished! I have to admit, I don't have a picture this week :( I was looking pretty rough today. Forgive me - I will post one next week. But here is the 32 week report from Baby Center :

By now, your baby weighs 3.75 pounds (pick up a large jicama) and is about 16.7 inches long, taking up a lot of space in your uterus. You're gaining about a pound a week and roughly half of that goes right to your baby. In fact, he'll gain a third to half of his birth weight during the next 7 weeks as he fattens up for survival outside the womb. He now has toenails, fingernails, and real hair (or at least respectable peach fuzz). His skin is becoming soft and smooth as he plumps up in preparation for birth.

9 Weeks to go!

2010-12-02T09:59:00.000-05:00

As of today - I am 31 weeks which means with each week I am growing more and more excited!! Last week Landon's crib arrived and the dresser is on the way!!! It's all coming together...but sadly - No, you cannot see pictures yet. It's coming together but not there yet :) Once we have it all finished you will see, I promise! I have a feeling the month of December is going to fly by with everything going on. I received a great report from the doctor last week - Glucose test came back fine and I am on target with everything else that is concerned!! Huge Praise!

Courtesy of Baby Center:

This week, your baby measures over 16 inches long. He weighs about 3.3 pounds (try carrying four navel oranges) and is heading into a growth spurt. He can turn his head from side to side, and his arms, legs, and body are beginning to plump out as needed fat accumulates underneath his skin. He's probably moving a lot, too, so you may have trouble sleeping because your baby's kicks and somersaults keep you up. Take comfort: All this moving is a sign that your baby is active and healthy.

Highlighted text could not be more true ;)

On another note - I am awaiting news from my girlfriend Brandy!! Her due date was yesterday and her doctors decided to induce around 6:00pm last night so Mr. Walker should be here at any moment!!!! WAHOO!!! So exciting!

10 Weeks to go!!!

2010-12-02T09:45:00.001-05:00

I apologize for the delay in my posts. I am back on track :) I reached 30 weeks last Thursday so this post is for last week :)

I have finally reached the 30 week mark! Wahoo!!! I hit 30 weeks on Thanksgiving :) I had an appointment on Wednesday and I got a great report from the doctor! All is going perfect which is exactly what you want to hear! I am more and more tired each day. I am more and more uncomfortable each night trying to sleep. But most importantly, I tear up just thinking about holding Landon for the first time.

Courtesy of Baby Center:
Your baby's about 15.7 inches long now, and he weighs almost 3 pounds (like a head of cabbage). A pint and a half of amniotic fluid surrounds him, but that volume will decrease as he gets bigger and takes up more room in your uterus. His eyesight continues to develop, though it's not very keen; even after he's born, he'll keep his eyes closed for a good part of the day. When he does open them, he'll respond to changes in light but will have 20/400 vision — which means he can only make out objects a few inches from his face. (Normal adult vision is 20/20.)

Thanksgiving this year was like no other! Honey's house was packed full! Words cannot describe how much I enjoy getting to spend time with my family. It was a no stress Thanksgiving and if you Remember My Post from last year...my pecan pie turned out correct this year!! Instead of 3 Tbls I did 1/3 tsp so it was YUM!

Hello Third Trimester!! I'm glad you are here!

2010-11-11T10:42:00.000-05:00

Courtesy of Baby Center:

By this week, your baby weighs two and a quarter pounds (like a Chinese cabbage) and measures 14.8 inches from the top of his head to his heels. He can blink his eyes, which now sport lashes. With his eyesight developing, he may be able to see the light that filters in through your womb. He's also developing billions of neurons in his brain and adding more body fat in preparation for life in the outside world.

I am now on the homestretch and in my third trimester!! This puts us closer to meeting our little man and this puts me over the moon! Today I have my glucose screening test and I will be getting the shot since Chad and I have opposite blood types. I have been given to wonderful baby showers and we are truly blessed to have the people in our lives that we do. Chad and I will never be able to express our gratitude enough to everyone!! Now that we have a wonderful stroller for Landon it is time to practice with that contraption because if not - we may have child services called on us...Practice makes perfect!!
That's all I have for now and I hope you all have a wonderful weekend!!
I also welcome any advice for getting through the third trimester even though I feel fantastic now - I know some difficulties may lie ahead :)

27 Weeks!!!!

2010-11-04T09:21:00.000-04:00

Courtesy of Baby Center:

This week, your baby weighs almost 2 pounds (like a head of cauliflower) and is about 14 1/2 inches long with his legs extended. He's sleeping and waking at regular intervals, opening and closing his eyes, and perhaps even sucking his fingers. With more brain tissue developing, your baby's brain is very active now. While his lungs are still immature, they would be capable of functioning — with a lot of medical help — if he were to be born now. Chalk up any tiny rhythmic movements you may be feeling to a case of baby hiccups, which may be common from now on. Each episode usually lasts only a few moments, and they don't bother him, so just relax and enjoy the tickle.

I would just like to add how entertained I am by watching my belly move. I started seeing the movement of my belly weeks ago but it is so pronounced now...Like waves on my stomach and if I put my had down at the right time it's like I can feel his body. Which actually makes me tear up because I cannot wait to meet my little man! He is so active - I feel his movement so much throughout the day!! I love it! Next week I will be in my third trimester :) Amazing how quickly the first two have gone by!

My baby sister is getting married!!!!

2010-11-01T09:07:00.000-04:00

My baby sister got engaged over the weekend Mr. Daniel Bentley! My family could not be more excited for them and to welcome him into our family (which he already has been for soooo long). These two were made for each other!! As her sister, I cannot wait to start all of the planning and share this time in her life with her! She will never know how proud I am of her and all that she has accomplished! Jennifer, You are going to be one amazingly beautiful Bride! There is so much going on in our family right now :) I love it!

Congratulations to Jennifer Martin and Daniel Bentley as they begin the next chapter in their life together!!!

Lunch Conversation just cannot get any better!

2010-10-28T15:32:00.001-04:00

So I thoroughly enjoyed my lunch conversation from work today. It's never dull - what more can I say? I will share this one with you as it in particularly had the whole table cracking up.

I must confess that I am not sure how our conversation got where it did but nonetheless I will try to explain.

If you listen to the Bert Show based out of Atlanta then this morning you heard the story about the crazy lady and her Instant Messenger scam. Well, we briefly touched on this. Well, someone at the table then asked, "What exactly is the difference between a text message and Instant Messenger?" This is when things got a little more interesting...

While trying to explain the different we began to reminisce about the days of AIM. I personally do not do the whole Instant Messenger thing anymore but used to. We were explaining how we grew up in the era of Chat rooms and AIM. While trying to explain the concept of chat rooms I began to think about how stupid/dangerous those rooms were but hey, we all did it. Late nights on the internet - in the chat rooms where you have to type: 14/Female/Georgia/brown hair....Don't judge - I know you did it too. Yes, it was stupid. My how things evolve, the conversation turned to creepy Myspace.com and how it sucked hours out of the day from our lives. You would stress for hours about which background to use on your profile and you had to make sure that you updated your song weekly to maintain your cool factor. Honestly, you could be anyone you wanted to - which therein lies the creepy factor. With people being able to post any picture they wanted - No you were not talking to the hunky brown haired in shape model from Cali, you were talking to the 50 year old guy who still lives at home with his mom and dad from lack of motivation to do anything with his life...

But we all learned something very new about a co-worker, who I will nickname Ravishing Red Head :) She is reading and laughing (plus I got the okay to write about this). We found out that she met her now hubby on myspace :) She went through the story about how he messaged her and striked up the convo; she didn't respond immediately - she had to do her research. After looking at some of his pictures (one from a Green day concert where he dyed his hair green) and with his weight being at like 120 or something like that - She came to the conclusion he's a harmless punky scrawny guy. So they talked back and forth and then the next question came, "Are we going to meet?" Which sent her into panic mode - She called a girlfriend and they decided a group date would be best. Bowling to be exact and at this point they exchanged numbers. She shared that his voice did not match his picture; she said it was very deep. At this point, I had to say, so when he called did he say, Hellooooo Clarice.... Which I must say if he had I don't know that they would be married because she probably would have hung up but no he didn't... He arrived at the bowling alley in an orange car and Napoleon Dynamite shirt on and she was smitten :) The rest is history but wow, what a lunch! We were able to talk about Chat rooms back in the day and learn something new about Mrs. Ravishing Red Head!! Interesting lunch with a lot of laughter!! Thanks ladies!

26 Weeks and an English Hothouse Cucumber

2010-10-28T09:25:00.000-04:00

I reached 26 weeks today and I'm trying to wrap my head around the fact that I will be in my third trimester in two weeks. Craziness but exciting at the same time! I'm feeling good but totally feeling the growing pains in my belly now. I have my first shower this weekend and I am totally looking forward to it! Here is my baby bump picture:

Courtesy of Baby Center:

The network of nerves in your baby's ears is better developed and more sensitive than before. He may now be able to hear both your voice and your partner's as you chat with each other. He's inhaling and exhaling small amounts of amniotic fluid, which is essential for the development of his lungs. These so-called breathing movements are also good practice for when he's born and takes that first gulp of air. And he's continuing to put on baby fat. He now weighs about a pound and two-thirds and measures 14 inches (an English hothouse cucumber) from head to heel. If you're having a boy, his testicles are beginning to descend into his scrotum — a trip that will take about two to three days.

*Now if you are like me - I know what a cucumber is but not an english hothouse cucumber so I had to look it up - haha!*

Bedroom Furniture :)

2010-10-25T10:51:00.000-04:00

Long time coming I know! It has taken me awhile to get these up...Well, awhile is being nice - It took me since March but hey atleast they are up :) This is the first set of furniture Chad and I bought for our home :) It was a big purchase but I was insistent on it. I told him I really wanted to get a King size bed before we got pregnant :) Well, If you are a regular reader you know that in May we got our wonderful news! I'm glad we got this furniture and I love it!

Wall Art in my Kitchen that I LOVE!!!

2010-10-20T14:04:00.000-04:00

So this is a really late post because this wallart has been up for awhile but better late than never! I ordered this for our kitchen from a friend at church. The saying came from the movie Julie and Julia (one of my faves) and I thought it was appropriate to put up in the kitchen :) I picked the font and I loved the red. It was pretty simple to put up as you can tell by the pictures but getting it straight that high up was a challenge. I'm fairly confident Chad was ready to smack me. We smoothed it out with a credit card and he made marks to make sure it was straight. Then came the most challenging part. You have to pull on it very very very slowly. His arms were numb by the time he finished but the final product is great! It adds some color and it is unique :)

If you are interested in ordering one for yourself you can go here:

Reliable Signs

They have something for every room; Babies rooms, Kids rooms, Kitchens, Living Rooms, etc. You get the point ;) You can e-mail me as well and I can send you the info:)

They have a facebook page as well so you can see other designs:

Reliable Signs Facebook Page

Nothing on you!

2010-10-19T09:42:00.000-04:00

This is David Choi and he re-did the song Nothing on you to be about Chick-fil-A awhile back. He was invited to the home office to sing his song and a few others. Super nice guy and he has a great voice!

Weekly Dish

2010-10-18T11:19:00.001-04:00

This week I was asked to do the Weekly Dish for What's up Sippy Cup :) Please check out the weekly dish for this week as well as the many other links and articles on the website!! It's a great website with a lot of ideas!

24 Weeks and an Ear of Corn

2010-10-14T09:43:00.000-04:00

Courtesy of Baby Center:

Landon is growing steadily, having gained about 4 ounces since last week. That puts him at just over a pound. Since he's almost a foot long (picture an ear of corn), he cuts a pretty lean figure at this point, but his body is filling out proportionally and he'll soon start to plump up. His brain is also growing quickly now, and his taste buds are continuing to develop. His lungs are developing "branches" of the respiratory "tree" as well as cells that produce surfactant, a substance that will help his air sacs inflate once he hits the outside world. His skin is still thin and translucent, but that will start to change soon.

I go this afternoon for my montly check-up. I would love to tell you how much weight I have gained but honestly I do not have a scale at the house. So I'm not that sure - If I had to guess at my last appt - I gained 6 pounds so for this one I am guessing close to 10 - as you can see I am growing and so is Landon :)

Landon is also well on his way to having a closet like his mommy - well maybe not that bad but I love the fact that he has two pairs of shoes already and is collecting outfits! :) He has no idea how much he is loved already!! Now if I could just fast forward this whole third trimester that would be awesome! I cannot wait for him to get here!!!

Now I need some advice - I am trying a few different things but not having much luck.

I know that my posture has changed because of the extra weight gain but it is causing pain in my upper back and neck, I put the heating pad on my back last night. At work, I am trying to sit up straighter at my desk. Just not sure what else to try doing...Any ideas or is it here to stay???

Minor Breakdown

2010-10-13T09:21:00.000-04:00

So I guess you could say that I had a minor breakdown Monday night...Let me recap the non-stop weekend that led to this. Nicole, Brigid and I threw a Baby shower for Brandy at my house Saturday morning. Beautiful shower but wow was I exhausted afterwards but I could not stop after the shower. I left the house after it was over and met up with Mom and Jenn to finish the Baby Registry :) Let's just say that my feet were hurting so bad that by the time we got to the baby monitors my pregnant bootie was sitting on the floor while I decided. Gross? Yes, but desperate times call for desperate measures. Chad had to work Saturday and he went to race go karts after that so he wasn't going to be home til about 3am. With that being the case I decided to spend the night with the folks :) I got up for early service and Sunday school and then headed home to head to the Braves Game with Matt and Jess... Game was starting at 4:30 but we left the house about 1:30 to get up there early. Now Atlanta weather for the past few weeks has been fantastic - We are actually having a Fall but Sunday was like holy cow hot! All I have to wear are jeans!! By the time I started showing all of the shorts were gone :( So I was extremely hot and trying not to be that whiny pregnant woman but seriously I thought I may have fallen out. Granted they did not win the game we still had an awesome time being at the stadium cheering them on!! I don't remember the last time the stadium was that loud. I must admit my elbow was sore from doing the chop that much! Anyway, we ended up getting home about 10:00 and got up for work. So then Monday hits. I was pooped - Not sure how I made it through the work day but I did. I get home and Chad was out in the recliner - we were both exhausted. I was trying to be a good wife and make a really good dinner while he slept. I was attempting to make, Skillet Garlic Chicken and I get started on it and begin cooking and then something happened. I go to the cabinet and I realize I have no cream of chicken. (This happens to every woman at some point in their life - My mom assures me but WHY MONDAY NIGHT??) I didn't panic - I went to my friend Mr. Google and looked up how to make my own. Well, I did just that and was feeling pretty proud of myself. I even made broccoli and homemade biscuits to go with it. I attempted to wake Chad up and he didn't budge. I proceeded to eat by myself. I start to eat and I have never said this before but it was hands down the worst meal I have ever made. I tried to eat but I was just so ticked. I spent an hour and a half cooking and for what - utter crap on a plate. You can guess what came next...I'm sitting there and I'm so tired, food was not good and all of my
t-shirts just look ridiculous on me now...so yeah out came the water works. Chad woke up and I was just sitting on the couch in a full on sob fest. He was so confused. He asked, "Babe what's wrong?" Through the tears I managed to get out, "This is the worst dinner I have ever made and I am so tired..." I could tell he was trying not to laugh and the expression on his face indicated he was not looking forward to eating a dinner I had just dubbed the worst ever. I got it together after I just had a good cry and Chad being the amazing husband that he is ate the dinner. The only complaint he had was that it was cold (from him napping) but I think he was trying to be nice. After that I got in the bed and did not move for the rest of the night. Such an eventful Monday evening and I owe it all to the wonderful hormonal changes of pregnancy. Thank you.

Jump Rope to the Extreme...

2010-10-11T14:30:00.001-04:00

I must admit I was fairly confident in my jump roping capabilities until watching this...now I would prefer to not pick one up again...

22 WEEKS!!!!

2010-09-30T09:19:00.000-04:00

Courtesy of Baby Center:

At 11 inches (the length of a spaghetti squash) and almost 1 pound, your baby is starting to look like a miniature newborn. His lips, eyelids, and eyebrows are becoming more distinct, and he's even developing tiny tooth buds beneath his gums. His eyes have formed, but his irises (the colored part of the eye) still lack pigment. If you could see inside your womb, you'd be able to spot the fine hair (lanugo) that covers his body and the deep wrinkles on his skin, which he'll sport until he adds a padding of fat to fill them in. Inside his belly, his pancreas — essential for the production of some important hormones — is developing steadily.

I just have to say that I am feeling really good and back to my old self! No cravings and my appetite has not increased. Ever since we found out we are having a little boy I have been walking around on cloud nine :) I've been told at work that I have a glow and that makes me feel good. I have never been so excited about anything in my life. I've obviously been excited about things but this experience and knowing what's coming is on a whole new level and I cannot wait to meet Landon :) I must confess that he already has things hanging in his closet thanks to Mom, Jenn and friends :) I got an awesome deal on a picture to hang up in the nursery that I love!! THANK YOU ROSS! I remember walking through the store with it and showing it to mom and jenn at which mom replied - "Only you and Chad." Curious now huh??? I'm not going to show it now or tell you what it is but I will post it once we get the nursery all done :) Just know that it is just screams boy :)

Tonight I am planning to get all of my Fall Decor out and the weather here in Georgia has been fantastic! I have to do a massive cleaning tonight to get ready for Saturday :) I have a Wedding shower at my house this Saturday and a Baby shower at my house next weekend - Am I crazy??? Yes. But I am not doing them by myself and if I was than I would give you permission to smack me ;)

On another note I will be attending my very first Falcons Game on Sunday!! I am super pumped! Always been a fan but never been to a game. After last weeks game - WOW - I cannot wait! It's been two weeks since I have seen my family so I am thoroughly looking forward to it!!!

Pictures and Details to come from the weekend :)

Jennifer Grey has my vote :)

2010-09-21T08:55:00.000-04:00

I have to admit that I usually do not vote on Dancing with the Stars but I was really intrigued to see Jennifer Grey dance and yes I cried last night. I cannot really blame it on being pregnant. I absolutely loved Dirty Dancing and I have probably watched it atleast 1000 times already in my life span so far. I teared up when Derek Hough was choreographing the dance for them and it was a song from Dirty Dancing. She was really excited at first and then she got very emotional. Watching Derek took her back and reminded her so much of Patrick. Yes, I sat in the bed next to Chad and cried. Watching her dance again was amazing :) I loved how one of the judges said somethings just get better with age and she truly is an amazing dancer :)

Half Way There!!!

2010-09-16T11:03:00.000-04:00

Courtesy of Baby Center:

Update on Landon :)

Your baby weighs about 10 1/2 ounces now. He's also around 6 1/2 inches long from head to bottom and about 10 inches from head to heel — the length of a banana. (For the first 20 weeks, when a baby's legs are curled up against his torso and hard to measure, measurements are taken from the top of his head to his bottom — the "crown to rump" measurement. After 20 weeks, he's measured from head to toe.)

He's swallowing more these days, which is good practice for his digestive system. He's also producing meconium, a black, sticky by-product of digestion.

From our Doctor on Tuesday: Our baby is developing beautifully and I at this point have gained 6 pounds. Landon weighed in on Tuesday at 8 ounces and very healthy :)

Such a PRAISE!

Thank you all for your love and support - You have no idea how much it means to Chad and I :)

Landon Thomas Reichert

2010-09-15T20:18:00.000-04:00

Chad and I are proud to announce that we will be welcoming a beautiful baby boy to the world on February 3, 2011!! We are beyond thrilled and haven't stopped smiling since last night!! Pregnancy thus far has been such an amazing experience but yesterday made it so real.

My appointment was at 10:15 yesterday where I would experience my first ultrasound. I have been counting down the days till this appointment :) When I went into the room I explained to the ultrasound tech what we would be doing later on that evening (The Gender Cake with our families) and she was more than happy to help. Since I had already talked with Publix I had the number and name in hand ready to go. I watched all of the ultra sound except for the gender shot and when she measured the femurs. She turned the screen away from me when she did the gender shot and I was watching her face. I then asked, "Is it obvious?" To which she replied, "I can't tell you, but I will say this that your baby is spread eagle so I am very confident!!" I laughed at the the thought of that because me and Little bit had a talk that morning to make sure he/she understood how important this appointment was and it worked ;) So after the ultrasound she called the number I gave her and told the bakery what we were having but I asked to write it down and place it in an envelope as well just to be on the safe side :) I finished the rest of my appointment and we got a great report on our little one. She said our baby is developing beautifully which is all I needed to hear!! It took a great deal of discipline not to open that envelope all afternoon but I figured a few more hours wouldn't kill me. My stomach was in knots all afternoon!! I couldn't wait to get on the road and head to the restaurant and that time finally came!! Chad and I both had butterflies in our stomachs on the way there. We picked up the cake and when we go to LaParilla (the only place we ever eat) our families were there with balloons for both a little boy and a little girl with booties tied to both:) My patience was wearing off so YES, we cut the cake before dinner and everything!! I was totally confident the inside is going to pink at this point I was seeking the validation for the dreams I was having with a little girl. So we got all set up and Chad and I cut the cake. There was no hiding the smurf BLUE that appeared :) I was thrilled and shocked all at the same time. I was soooo convinced it was a little girl! Chad and I are beyond ecstatic and we just know we are going to have so much fun with our little boy!! We will be naming our little one Landon Thomas Reichert :) Love this name and I am so glad now I can say he and not other nicknames!! I was non-stop smiling at work today and thanks to Ms. Christen from work our little Landon received his first little outfit! It is precious and so cute with the little monkey on the front!! Thanks Christen!! Today was so special at work because I can now announce the gender and the name!! Below you will find the video from the cake cutting and pictures of our little Landon from his appointment!!

This was such an important night for Chad and I with our families! I will remember last night for the rest of my life for many reasons!! Our parents are beyond excited and I am sure Landon was all they thought about today!! I know I did!

Drum Roll Please...We have a Bellpepper!

2010-09-02T09:37:00.001-04:00

Courtesy of Baby Center: 18 weeks!!!!

Head to rump, your baby is about 5 1/2 inches long (about the length of a bell pepper) and he/she weighs almost 7 ounces. He/She's busy flexing his/her arms and legs — movements that you'll start noticing more and more in the weeks ahead. His/Her blood vessels are visible through his/her thin skin, and his/her ears are now in their final position, although they're still standing out from his/her head a bit. A protective covering of myelin is beginning to form around his/her nerves, a process that will continue for a year after he/she's born. If you're having a girl, her uterus and fallopian tubes are formed and in place. If you're having a boy, his genitals are noticeable now, but he may hide them from you during an ultrasound.

I have two very exciting things to share!!! First, we will be finding out what we are having in 12 days!!! AHHH!!! I'm so excited!!! September 14th is the date and we will find out that morning but we are taking a nonconventional way to tell our families - We are going to do a gender cake. We will ask the doctor to right down the gender of the baby and place it in an envelope - We will then take it to a bakery and ask them to make a cake and make the inside of the cake either pink or blue depending on what is in the envelope :) So basically we will be finding out at the same time as our families which I love! My mom's birthday is on the 13th so this will be a great present for her! We are going to meet at La Parilla and have dinner and find out the good news!!! (if you like please make your predictions on my blog and I have a poll at work going and I will mark your vote for you) :) I love hearing all of the guesses!
On another note - Im pretty confident that I either skipped the flutter experience all together or didn't know I was having them because starting last Thursday Little Bit has been poking me :) I felt it Thursday, Saturday and again yesterday at work. I love it when it happens especially when it happens 3 times like on Thursday :) I just sit there and smile - such an amazing feeling.

*On another note I ask all of you to continue to keep Joey, Chad's father in your prayers. He was in a motorcycle accident Tuesday afternoon. He has 7 fractured ribs and the top bone in his sternum is fractured and he has a chest tube in. He is still in ICU as of this morning but is completely alert, talking and standing when he needs to. He is just in a lot of pain so please keep him in your thoughts and prayers.*

Next time you hear from me it will be to announce the gender of our baby!! :) Hope everyone has a wonderful Labor Day weekend and you have no idea how ready I am for some College Football!!! GOOOO DAWGS!!!!! You can always watch the Chick-fil-A Kickoff Game as well!!!

16 Week Update and Happy Birthday Honey!

2010-08-19T08:43:00.000-04:00

Courtesy of Baby Center:

Get ready for a growth spurt. In the next few weeks, your baby will double his weight and add inches to his length. Right now, he's about the size of an avocado: 4 1/2 inches long (head to rump) and 3 1/2 ounces. His legs are much more developed, his head is more erect than it has been, and his eyes have moved closer to the front of his head. His ears are close to their final position, too. The patterning of his scalp has begun, though his locks aren't recognizable yet. He's even started growing toenails. And there's a lot happening inside as well. For example, his heart is now pumping about 25 quarts of blood each day, and this amount will continue to increase as your baby continues to develop.

*I smile every week when I read the updates about the baby*

In other news I would like to wish my wonderful grandmother, whom we call Honey, a Happy Birthday today. She is turning 85 today and we will celebrate with her this Saturday! I could write a book, literally, on how much she means to me but if you know me you already know how much I love my Honey. I talk about her just about everyday and she is just hands down - Amazing and I love her to pieces! Happy Birthday Honey! Cannot wait to you Saturday!!!!

P.S. Honey and I both think I am having a girl :)

Our home

2010-08-18T13:05:00.000-04:00

Please don't take this post the wrong way - I love my home and everything about it (could use a pantry - Just saying). However, recently with the onset of pregnancy exhaustion I feel like I am trying to keep my head above water with the house. This exhaustion is like nothing I have ever experienced and honestly I am not a fan. I am used to being active and getting things done and now I do good to get dinner on the table. Once dinner is fixed I plop down on the couch, put my feet up and try to muster up energy to move to take a shower (Usually takes about two hours for me to move). I'm honestly just that wore out. I just feel like there is always something to do and poor Chad has been busting his tail to keep the outside of the house looking good (our grass typically needs to be cut about twice a week) and I can't even muster up the energy to load the diswasher. I'm ready to have my energy back. The more I have thought about this lately the more nervous it is making me. I hope and pray my energy levels go back to normal after the baby. What on earth am I going to do if they don't? I want to be the Supermom that is able to do everything and right now because I am so stinking tired all the time it just has me a little worried. My thought this morning was that it may help to make a list of things that need to be done to the house and put it on the fridge. This way atleast when we get something done we can cross it off and feel as though we are making headway. For example; we really need to clean on the gutters and there is no way Chad can do that on his own. There is certainly no way I can help him - the ladder is massive and I struggled last year to help when we were putting up our christmas lights. Just things like that are on my mind - Not stressing but I want to be able to help but can't.

Any moms out there with any advice on how they dealth with this aspect of pregnancy???

What's up Sippy Cup

2010-08-09T13:56:00.000-04:00

I wanted to get the word out about a new website that has been added to "My Favorites," in my Internet Explorer. This website has a fun and catchy name and easy to remember. This website is called; What's up Sippy Cup. My cousin and a friend of her's who currently reside in Texas have started this fun and a little bit of everything website. Both stay at home mommies were looking to give something back including everything from crafts to do with your kids, books of choice, movie reviews and recipes for the week. The great thing about this website is that yes, while it has information for Mommies to be and those that are moms but it doesn't stop there. It has things for you aside from your child. It will give you tips on movies for you and it can be used as your online book club. It give you time to be you :) They have a Locals section for those that live in Texas which if I lived in Texas I would love to have. Everything from Deals at Restaurants, a Calendar for local events - events for you and your kids and events for adults, as well as many other events related ideas. I'm hoping to spread the word about this extensive new website and ask you to share it amongst your friends and family. If you are worried about sharing it with some die to lack of computer/internet skills - have no worries - this is a very user friendly website and simple to navigate. If you check it out please give some feedback. They are constantly striving to keep their readers happy and would love to hear what you think.

Let me know what you think!

We have a Lemon :) 14 Week Update

2010-08-05T09:07:00.000-04:00

Courtesy of Baby Center:

This week's big developments: Your baby can now squint, frown, grimace, pee, and possibly suck his thumb! Thanks to brain impulses, his facial muscles are getting a workout as his tiny features form one expression after another. His kidneys are producing urine, which he releases into the amniotic fluid around him — a process he'll keep up until birth. He can grasp, too, and if you're having an ultrasound now, you may even catch him sucking his thumb.

In other news: Your baby's stretching out. From head to bottom, he measures 3 1/2 inches — about the size of a lemon — and he weighs 1 1/2 ounces. His body's growing faster than his head, which now sits upon a more distinct neck. By the end of this week, his arms will have grown to a length that's in proportion to the rest of his body. (His legs still have some lengthening to do.) He's starting to develop an ultra-fine, downy covering of hair, called lanugo, all over his body. Your baby's liver starts making bile this week — a sign that it's doing its job right — and his spleen starts helping in the production of red blood cells. Though you can't feel his tiny punches and kicks yet, your little pugilist's hands and feet (which now measure about 1/2 inch long) are more flexible and active.

Current cravings:

Spicy Nacho Doritos
Kung Pao Chicken

The shirt in the picture fit perfectly fine two weeks ago so you tell me - Am I getting bigger? I think yes!
The nausea at the moment has subsided and I'm getting my energy back - Thank goodness! The one major thing I am looking forward to besides the birth of our baby is being able to feel his/her movement :)

My mom got this beautiful frame for us right after she found out the good news and I couldn't wait to get Little Bit's first picture in the frame and on the dresser :) I love it! Thanks mom!

Little Bit's Photo Shoot

2010-08-02T09:49:00.000-04:00

I wrote this post last Monday right after our first sonogram even though it is being posted today. I was waiting on our Little Bit's pictures and I finally got them today:)

Today Chad and I were able to experience something that was like nothing either of us have ever experienced. We had our first sonogram today and it was nothing shy of amazing! Instantly we were able to see our baby and make out what everything was. From the heart beating away, to the little feet, to the little hands, to the brain, spine and full on view of he/she's face. I didn't cry but I felt the most overwhelming sense of joy like nothing I have ever felt before. Little bit is such a wiggle worm. He/She was moving all over the place and in all different directions. Which is so hard for me to fathom because I don't feel that movement yet. I know that it is coming and I cannot wait for that moment when I feel he/she's movement for the first time. Looking at the screen I was in complete awe of how amazing God is and how everyone is created in His image. It is an absolute miracle - what is taking place in my body is overwhelming and I am so thankful that it is His hands shaping and molding our baby into His vision. Today will be a day that I remember for the rest of my life. My doctor was very pleased with the growth of the baby and how things are progressing. I will go back in 4 weeks for another check-up and then when I am 20 weeks we will go for my ultra sound to find out what we are having. That will take place in September and September is right around the corner. Everything is going beautifully and again I am so thankful to God for allowing me to experience all that I am.

Direct TV and your "so called" Customer Service

2010-07-28T10:49:00.002-04:00

Dear Direct TV,

Since my husband and I have had your service for the past year and a half I have come to the conclusion that your customer service is severely lacking. Please explain to me why I have to pay you to come out when I have never even touched the satellite dish and all of a sudden we are getting a total of 15 channels and I have to pay you to come out and look at it? Doesn't make much sense huh? The technician who set up our dish initially left cables hanging in the basement, did a pitiful job pouring the concrete for the pole for the dish and could not program the remote with our TV. Really? What do you train them to do? I'm confused. We want nothing more than to cancel our contract but that is not option because of your ridiculous fees. Up until 4 months ago everything was working fine but now I cannot watch The Office and I am not a happy camper. And as for your customer service telephone number - I have never been more aggravated getting off the phone. Telemarketers get on my nerves less than your employees. I explain to you that our backyard is covered in trees and that I don't think the position of the satellite is effective. When the trees blow we lose signal. It's just that ridiculous. I have a feeling that if a leaf falls or a bird goes to the restroom we probably lose signal then too. For you to have the audacity to ask if I can remove some trees excuse me while I bust out laughing. These are tall pine trees idiot! Granted your fees are high we would come out cheaper paying you to cancel than paying a company to come out and remove the trees. You do the math. Seriously??? So thank you for sending out another technician yesterday who informed us we did not have a signal where it has been. We are so appreciative to you for explaining this to us. We were utterly confused as to why we were only getting 15 channels. I'm so glad he cleared that up for us. He wanted to put it on the roof but explained he could not guarantee that it would make it any better. So let me get this straight - You want to climb on my roof, nail a satellite dish to my roof and in turn voiding the warranty on my brand new roof without a guaranteed signal? No thank you. But he was able to find one little spot in the trees on the corner of the house so I now have not one but 2 areas of poured concrete in my yard. Thank you oh so much for that. Believe me when I say that I am counting down the days till April when we can cancel your awful service.

Sincerely,

Your unappreciated customer,

Laura

12 weeks with Little Bit :)

2010-07-22T09:42:00.000-04:00

Courtesy of Baby Center:

The most dramatic development this week: reflexes. Your baby's fingers will soon begin to open and close, his toes will curl, his eye muscles will clench, and his mouth will make sucking movements. In fact, if you prod your abdomen, your baby will squirm in response, although you won't be able to feel it. His intestines, which have grown so fast that they protrude into the umbilical cord, will start to move into his abdominal cavity about now, and his kidneys will begin excreting urine into his bladder.

Meanwhile, nerve cells are multiplying rapidly, and in your baby's brain, synapses are forming furiously. His face looks unquestionably human: His eyes have moved from the sides to the front of his head, and his ears are right where they should be. From crown to rump, your baby-to-be is just over 2 inches long (about the size of a lime) and weighs half an ounce.

When I read these weekly updates I sit in awe of how great our God is. Chad has been putting up with me complaining here lately and yesterday it hit me. Yes, the first trimester has been challenging but it could be worse, much worse. Instead of complaining I am going to try something new. Every time I catch myself about to complain I am going to stop myself and mentally thank God for the privilege of being able to get pregnant and experience this miracle for nine months. It hit me that there are women who have difficulties getting pregnant or for that matter getting pregnant at all who would gladly take what I am dealing with so that they could have a baby.

Thank you God for allowing Chad and I to have a baby and experience all that we are.

February 3 is going to be a Special Day!

2010-07-12T20:33:00.002-04:00

In my previous post I explained some reasons as to why I have been slacking with maintaining my blog. Yes, work is keeping me busy. Yes, life has been busy. There is one reason I have been waiting to share. The first two reasons are pretty good and decent reasons for my laziness but this next reason is the icing on the cake. I'm sure as you are reading this you have probably figured out what I am about to share.

On May 30, Chad and I found out that we are going to have a baby!!

Words cannot describe our excitement that night when we found out. We cried, laughed, jumped and down, we hugged and we smiled non-stop for the rest of the evening. We decided in January that we were ready to start a family so it didn't exactly take long :) We are so excited for this next chapter in our lives!! We will have our first sonogram on July 26'th. I'm sure there will be smiles and tears of joy. Each Thursday is a new week for me - Right now I am 10 weeks but not too far from 11 weeks! This puts my due date at

February 3, 2011. Some of you may be curious as to how my first trimester is going...I have actually lost 7 pounds due to food not cooperating (I'm sure you know what I mean) and nothing and I mean NOTHING but bagels tastes good. Bring on the bagels I guess! And WOW am I tired. All of the time I am tired. I am recquiring a lot of sleep and when I don't get it -Watch out! I am not showing yet but I don't think it will be too much longer :) We are excited for our parents to become grandparents and believe me they are beyond thrilled!

Update on a church home: We have tried different churches in our area but after our search we have decided to go back to our church home at First Baptist of Jonesboro. We feel like this is where God wants us to be right now. With our recent news we know that a lot is going to be changing and it's a crucial time in our lives for our spiritual walk. First Baptist of Jonesboro is our family and we want to share this time and grow together with them.

We ask for your thoughts and prayers during these next 6 and a half months. I will be updating more regularly now - I just had to get through the beginning :)

WAHOO!!!!!!!!

I may be a slacker but atleast I have an excuse!

2010-06-30T13:16:00.000-04:00

First and foremost I must apologize for the delay in my entries. A lot has changed and happened in the past month and I have been adjusting to my new position at Chick-fil-A. Now onto the good stuff:

I must do a small rant about one of my favorite tv shows that has let me down this season. If you have read in the past you know that I love writing about The Bachelor/Bachelorette and it has not happened yet for this season. I have found myself not as engaged in it at all this go around. I still watch but I'm just not as into it. I love Ali but I have had a revelation. Brace yourself. This show is about Ratings and Publicity. Shocker! I know but tis true. These producers are finding more and more morons to put on this show. Do I still watch? Well, of course but I guess you could say before where I would not dare miss an episode - I'm okay if I miss one now...But enough about that...

On Saturday evening we celebrated my beautiful sister's birthday with the family. We played a little water volleyball but the real competiton of the evening came down to the Wii. Jenn now has 4 controllers which makes it that much more fun. There were 4 of us playing tennis in the living room, wakeboarding in the living room (from what I hear I look pretty funny doing this one), sword fighting and canoeing. Tennis was not that exahusting nor was the wakeboarding. However, my family is slightly competitve (hence the exaggeration) and sword fighting was insane. I think we took it to a whole new level. Let's just say the controllers were getting disconnected. Then came Canoeing. Dad and I took on Chad and Daniel and I promise I felt like I was in a stinking canoe paddling my little heart out. Dad and I were chanting whether or not to go on the left or the right. It was exhausting! Such a good night until I woke up Sunday morning for church and could not move my arms nor the rest of my body. I kid you not I felt as though I had been given flu shots in both arms and my back thown up against a wall at 90 mph. Good workout? You could say that.

Last night my mom and I set out on an endeavor that I am paying for greatly today. It is now secret that I loved the Twilight Saga books so it is only fitting that I go see the movies as well. I have seen the first two at midnight so why not the third? So last night mom and I hung in there yet again for the midnight showing of Eclipse. I thoroughly enjoyed this time with my mom. It is time that I do not get as often anymore so I treasure my time with her that much more when I do get it. Mom was however cracking me up. We arrived at 9:30 to get in line because you have to be able to get a good seat. I did not pay for these tickets to sit on the very front row. As we were standing there, Mom is telling me, do you see how young these girls are? You are 25, Smiling the whole time. I just reminded her of how much she loves me. :) As far as the movie goes; It was the better of the three but I still prefer the books over the movies. The movies continually get better and Taylor Lautner's abs don't exactly hurt the movie but I am still an Edward fan. I just keep going back to how captivating the books were. Last night was also worth while because I was able to see the new Harry Potter Trailer and let's just say I am super pumped!

As far as the holiday weekend is concerned- Chad and I will be heading down to Panama City Beach, Florida on Friday and come back Wednesday with my family! It is a much needed vacation and we are both looking forward to it. We are looking forward to doing.....absolutely....NOTHING!

I hope that everyone has a wonderful 4'th of July weekend!! Be safe and have fun!

Loving my new job!

2010-06-08T20:56:00.000-04:00

I thought I would give an update on work, life - well just a little bit of everything! I have been in my new role at work now for about two weeks and it has been an amazing two weeks! I am learning a lot and I must admit a big plus is NO PANTY HOSE! That alone is a bonus and just in time for these hot summer days in Georgia. I wish I could give a job description of my different tasks but honestly I can't. I'm doing a little bit of everything and everyday is different - which is a nice change! This was the plan from the beginning; that I would be doing a little bit of everything.

Life at the moment is going wonderfully! Chad and I are enjoying First Baptist of Peachtree City. It's a big decision so we are taking our time and listening to the Lord on seeking membership.

We received our Master Bedroom Furniture and our room is coming together nicely! New bedding, new television for the bedroom (Thank You Rooms To Go)!! I will post pictures tomorrow! I did some new things with the Mantle in the living room and I personally love it! Got the idea from some different blogs - Let me know what you think!

That's all I have for now! Please keep me in your prayers as I start this next chapter in my career! Oh yea - Go get your Chick-fil-A Spicy Sandwich!

Dancing at Screen on the Green

2010-06-04T14:04:00.001-04:00

Moving to Marketing

2010-05-25T08:26:00.000-04:00

So I wanted to share with everyone that I have my official start for my move to the Chick-fil-A Marketing Department!!

And the date is....

Drum Roll Please.......

June 1'st!!! Next Tuesday!!!

I am SUPER excited about this move and the doors of opportunity that it is going to open :)
God is so good and I am so thankful that He and He alone has a plan for my life. My patience was tested and there were days that I failed on that test. All in all I knew there was a reason and even though I may not see that reason at the moment and I may never see that reason I know it was all for the better.

Too much for this age group

2010-05-13T08:15:00.001-04:00

I was in total shock when I watched this. I personally think this is wrong on so many levels. The dance teacher should not be allowed to teach dance classes to this age group ever again and the parents need to have their heads examined. They are robbing these little girls of their youth. What do you think?

Trees are falling

2010-05-12T19:43:00.000-04:00

So tonight Chad and I went out for our run before dinner and we came back home something really random happened. We were sitting in the living room talking when all of a sudden we hear this very strange noise. Chad looked in the kitchen and I glanced outside from the couch and I was like what in the world??? I saw a limb falling - a big limb...I thought the whole tree was falling. I guess I am a little confused because today was perfect; sunny, no wind and def no rain...I am perplexed...

I did what???

2010-05-12T19:39:00.001-04:00

Saturday morning was a great way to start off the weekend! We headed up to Atlantic Station at about 6:20 am and whoa was that an early Saturday. When we got there we met up with our team for some Team Pictures and then made our way to the start line. I was trying to prepare myself mentally for running the 5K. I had committed in my head to run the race no matter what. I told Chad that if he got first place then I would go to his go kart race that night. So he was determined to say the least. He and Daniel sprinted when the gun sounded. Nicole, Jenn and I paced ourselves. We ended up splitting up for various reasons. I need to say that I am not a runner by any means. Being surrounded by runners made me feel like one though. As I am coming up to the water table I am watching the pros as they throw the water in their mouths and keep going. So I followed their example and threw it my mouth but ended up with water all over my face and on my shirt while I think one drop landed in my mouth. After that; I saw Daniel near me and hollered at him and he and I ran the rest together. Once I saw the finish line I felt a sense of accomplishment and pride that I didn't give up. I finished in 33:05 and time didn't really matter to me I just wanted to run the entire thing and not quit. When I stopped running my legs felt like JELLO. Mission Accomplished!

We got back to the house and we all crashed. Nobody wanted to move but we had to. Chad and I headed over to his Dad's because it was time for a night of Go Karts. We made our way up to Dalton, GA for the evening. Bradley was able to bring Emily and I love getting to spend time with this little chick. She is a mess and I love every bit of her! Lindsey and I spent most of the evening laughing and cutting up with Emily while the boys worked on their karts. They made a huge improvement during the practice and qualifying but the main was not too good. Not sure what the missing piece is to this world of go kart racing but I hope they figure it out soon!

This is Emily and she is a bundle of energy with a very vivid imagination. I love her to pieces!

Mother's Day and Mary Poppins

2010-05-12T19:30:00.001-04:00

I'd like to say that I am 100% sure that my mom had a wonderful Mother's day. I know I did and I am not even a mommy yet! It was a wonderful day spending time with Mom, Jenn, Honey (My grandmother) and Aunt Cathy. We had a late lunch at The Broadway Diner in Fayetteville and then made our way to The Fox for the anticipated Mary Poppins. Words could not describe my excitement about seeing this musical! The drive down was typical; Mom driving and everyone telling her how to drive ;) This is the norm for us... When we got there it was very clear that mom was pretty much over all of us telling her how to drive so we all decided to be quiet. She decided since the parking lot was pretty much empty that it would be a good time to back into a spot. We asked if she needed help and we were told infatically...No! Honey and Jenn went on while Cathy and I hung back. I'm so glad we did. We looked over and saw Mom backing into the spot with the door open and with her leaning out trying to see behind her...I couldn't help but laugh as she was swerving from right to left. We all had a good laugh. We did the whole tourist thing - Taking pictures in front of the Mary Poppins display. Didn't bother me that we were taking up majority of the sidewalk. Jenn and I went and checked out what they had for sale...Tempted much? To say the least. I could have bought everything. Snowglobe- $40, T-shirt -$25, Poster -$10, Chad's expression when I bring all of that home - Priceless. To save myself the headache I purchased nothing :( Maybe when I become CEO of a Company ;)

We found our seats which just so happened to be pretty darn good - If I do say so myself. (Pat on the back). Then it began and I was in awe! This hands down the best musical I have seen at The Fox. Granted I have only seen; Beauty and the Beast, White Christmas, and Jersey Boys which were all very good; Mary Poppins made me feel like a kid sitting there. Step in Time and Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious were by far the best of the night! Those two had me on the edge of my seat. If you have seen this than you understand and if you don't understand then you need to go see it!

This is a video I found on Youtube of one of my favorite songs from the musical!!

Weekend Forecast - BUSY!

2010-05-05T12:58:00.005-04:00

So I have a busy yet awesome weekend ahead!!! The fun begins bright and early on Saturday morning!! I am on a team for the Susan G. Komen run at Atlantic Station and I cannot wait. Well to be honest - I have really high arches on both feet making it painful to run for almost any period of time. I get really bad cramps anytime that I wear tennis shoes. Well, that has changed thank goodness!!! I called and spoke to someone at Phidippides in Atlanta since I knew I wouldn't be able to get up there before Saturday and they were so helpful. He recommended shoes to me based on what I was describing. After work yesterday. Chad and I went to Smith and Davis in Fayetteville because they have the machine you can stand on and it recognizes where you put pressure and she was pretty much like - yeah you need alot of arch support. With all of that said - I purchased the Asics Cumulus and so far they are fantastic! Chad and I went for a run last night and for the first time I didn't get cramps in my feet but something very weird happened. I wear the typical gear for running (shorts/T-shirt) and my legs while we were running were itching like CRAZY! I couldn't help but scratch!! I had red marks all over my legs. The only thing I can come up with is the fabric softener we use:( I love the smell of it but I don't want to deal with that...I'm going to wash them tonight minus the fabric softener and see what happens when I run again! Chad found it to be hilarious - I however did not. haha.
On Sunday I will be spending the evening with my mom, Jenn, Honey and Aunt Cathy. We are heading to The Fox to see Mary Poppins (a favorite of mine) and words cannot describe my excitement about seeing it!! I am looking forward to time with my favorite people :) Nothing is better on Mother's day than spending the day with my mom :) I will have a full report of the musical on Monday! :)

On another note: Keep Jeremy and Molly in your prayers as Jeremy leaves Friday for NAVY OCS training. He will be gone for three months in Rhode Island. Chad and I have you both in our prayers and we love you :)

Church Home Search Continues

2010-04-28T10:28:00.001-04:00

Chad and I have decided to continue our search for a new church home. We feel that we are being led to a larger church since that is what we are used to. We have been trying First Baptist of Peachtree City and we are enjoying the sermons, pastor and fellowship as well. We met two wonderful people the first week that we were there that teach the Sunday School class for young/married with no children which was perfect for us! We attended that class on Sunday and we enjoyed the open dialouge and discussion that came with the study. They have different worship services and we have been going to the contemporary service and it is going great. We both prefer the contemporary spin on worship music. I love it when they sing a classic hymn with a contemporary twist. Thus the reason I asked Tom Griffin to sing Blessed Assurance at our wedding with Third Day's arrangement :) I just wanted to give an update on where we are at this point. God is so good and he is blessing Chad and I beyond belief. The other night while I was cooking - Chad came in the kitchen and I wrapped my arms around him. I told him how amazed I am at how God is blessing our life together :)

New Eclipse Trailer

2010-04-26T11:26:00.001-04:00

So excited!! This announcment was posted on http://www.cnn.com/ and it's wayyyy better than the first trailer in my opinion. What do you think?

http://www.oprah.com/oprahshow/Worldwide-Premiere-Watch-The-Twilight-Saga-Eclipse-Trailer-Video_1

Blogging Rut

2010-04-23T08:26:00.008-04:00

I guess you could say I have somewhat had a blogging rut. Not that things are not happening and Life isn't good just nothing I felt the need to write about. Chad and I have made the decision to buy a King size bedroom set. We currently have one bed in the house and guess what??? We sleep in it so our poor friends/family either sleep on the air mattress or the couch. We have picked one out from Rooms to Go along with, hands down, the best mattress I have ever laid on. We went and looked on Wednesday night and had a ball doing so. We were not afraid to lay on the mattresses and get comfy and try to see how they all felt. It's not exactly a small purchase and holy cow furniture in general is expensive. I kept hearing my mom in my head saying - you get what you pay for. My parents have had the same bedroom set since they got married and it is gorgeous. It's an investment and that's the way we are looking at it. I was going to share the link with everyone but I would rather take pictures once we get it in the house :)

Chad and I celebrated our one year anniversary on Monday!! Can you believe it - ONE YEAR??? Seems like yesterday we were dancing our tails off at Alvaton!! We had a low-key anniversary but it was wonderful! Instead of Chad buying me flowers I asked him if we could get flowers for the yard. So went to Lowe's to start that process. We bought a hanging basket to subside because I wasn't sure what layout I wanted to do in the yard. Well as soon as we purchased the basket - I read the tag and it said minimal sun light. Ugh! That's not going to work with where I have the hook so we walked right back in to the return counter and returned it. Talk about feeling dumb. We went to Olive Garden for dinner and that was nice. When we got home we ate some of the top of our wedding cake. It wasn't bad but it wasn't good either...
It was actually supposed to be strawberry so imagine my surprise after waiting a whole year to find out it was regular cake...so blah! We spend a lot of the evening laughing together and being silly. It was a wonderful evening and I love how we make each other laugh all the time. I catch myself smiling throughout the day and laughing about things that happen when we are at the house :)

I am really looking forward to May :) Lots of good things happening! I will be attempting to run the Susan G. Komen 5K at Atlantic Station. We have a good size team and we have raised a lot of money for the cure. Then on Mothers Day; Me, Mom, Jenn, Aunt Cathy and Honey (My Grandmother) are going to see Mary Poppins at The Fox. Laugh if you wish - but this is one of my favorite movies to this day and I am so excited about seeing this. In addition to these- tis the season for Graduations :) My girlfriend Aubry will be graduating from College and heading out into the world to teach!! I am so happy for her and I know at times it felt like there was no end in sight but she will be crossing the finish line!! My sis-in-law, Cassie will be graduating from High School and heading down to Valdosta to earn her College degree. I remember the feelings I had when I graduated from high school. It was amazing!! I hope it does not rain so that Chad and I are able to attend!! She has so much ahead of her and we are both so excited for her!!

Nothing too exciting going on this weekend but we were finally able to set up something with Lauren and Cody!! We will finally be going out to dinner!! Thankfully our schedules aligned!! It's supposed to be raining here all weekend so I may be spending the weekend in the house since Chad may be working on Saturday! I hope that everyone has a wonderful weekend!!

P.S. I tried to make homemade biscuits last night and the dough was not cooperating. I was getting so frustrated that I almost cried. Is that bad?

My 100'th Post! I'll give you two fifties for one hundred

2010-04-13T13:42:00.001-04:00

Instead of giving you a list of 100 things - I decided on two list of 50 that compliment each other. Some of you may find this post boring but this is how I decided to do my 100 post :)

50 Things about me that have changed within the past year:

1. I am now a happily married woman close to celebrating our 1 year anniversary.
2. I started working at Chick-fil-A Corporate as a Receptionist.
3. I was told when I was brought on @ Chick-fil-A it would not be for long - On April 28, it will be a year.
4. I recently accepted a position in the Marketing Department - but I don't have a start date yet. I am waiting until they find a replacement for me.
5. Chad and I have started searching for a new church home.
6. My relationship with my mom and sister has grown deeper. Let me explain; With me not living at home anymore - I cherish the time that I have with them even more.
7. I have started reading more - Two of my faves from the past year are My Sister's Keeper and Crazy Love.
8. We celebrated our first Christmas married in our home. If you know me, you know that I am nuts about anything and all things Christmas.
9. Having said that - This Christmas was different, in a good way though. I was able appreciate the meaning of Christmas on an entirely different level. I'm not sure why but I have a feeling it has something to do with this thing called "growing up."
10. My relationship with Christ is getting deeper each and every day. I feel his presence with me throughout the day. He's always been there but I see his hand more and more in the decisions I make.
11. Chad and I still laugh at each other everyday. I think this is amazing. He puts a smile on my face everyday even when I'm not in the best of moods.
12. I realize more and more that Chad makes me a better person. He challenges me in a good way to be better.
13. In the past year I have become very good at taking steps of Faith. I may not always no what the outcome is going to be but I know that His plan for Chad and I is way better than what I am able to do.
14. Chad and I have fun - I never thought I would be running around the house playing tag at the age of 25 but it is so much fun and I usually win ;).
15. I have met so many people in the past year alone that I know are going to help me grow and learn throughout the years to come.
16. I am thankful for my health. I have met and seen many people around me going through health issues and it makes me realize how blessed I am.
17. I am thankful for my parents. Not to boast about myself but I have been repeatedly complimented on my work ethic, attitude, and ability to make wise decisions. I look back and I know I wouldn't have that without my mom and dad. Thank you both for helping me develop into who I am today.
18. Still trying to wrap my head around the fact that I am 25.
19. I appreciate our friends and family so much more. Whether it be my father-in-law coming to the house at 6:00 because I have locked my keys in the car for the thousandth time or a simple an e-mail from family/friends during the day that says, I love you.
20. I loooovvveee bargain shopping even more!! I'll share to of my recent bargains with you: I went to Tanger Outlet with my sister and girlfriends and headed to Banana Republic. Jenn had a 30% off coupon. Well, she found a dress on the clearance rack for me that was marked down to 39.99. When I got up to the register it was actually 19.99 so I ended up getting it for $12!! Yesterday, I found some Nine West red hills at Ross for $17. Yay for good deals!
21. I never imagined that I would like going to Home Depot or Lowes but now I do.
22. I now have to plan things in advance with family and girlfriends. Spur of the moment doesn't work much anymore when you are about 40 mins away from everyone.
23. Never thought I would jump on the iphone bandwaggon but I want one bad. Verizon please make this happen!
24. I listen to my sister when she gives me fashion advice. I didn't before but she makes me step out of my comfort zone and I like that :) Even if we do end up with some of the same shirts ;)
25. I like to keep things. No, I do not need an intervention on being a Horder. I keep sentimental things. Not to say that I throw away everything now but Chad will hold something up and say okay are you going to wear this again or Really, Babe? At which I decide to throw it away.
26. I used to hate mustard but now I love it.
27. I like to read books that help me grow as a person; Beth Moore, Andy Stanley, etc.
28. I am really looking forward to my sister's wedding. No, She is not engaged yet nor have they set a date but I cannot wait to watch her experience all of that.
29. I despise cleaning in the winter but I love it during the spring and summer. Weird, I know.
30. I want an SUV but I love the fact that my Saturn is paid for. I never thought I would want another car after my Saturn.
31. My road rage sadly has gotten worse since moving to Newnan. If you travel on that end of 85 you understand why. They have been doing construction for what seems like 25 years...Um, please finish already- thanks!
32. Never thought panty hose would creep back into my life but they have and yes, I hate them.
33. I love The Office more and more with each episode I watch.
34. I am a stronger woman than I was a year ago.
35. I am becoming a really good multi-tasker. A gift men lack. ha
36. I hate to write in cursive more each day.
37. I use my planner more and more. I used to be able to recall dates and things going on but those days are gone to a point. I just flat out feel better when I write them down. Lord help me if I ever lose my planner!!
38. I remember growing up teasing my mom about using coupons. "Nope. I don't have a coupon for that cereal." Jenn and I used to crack up laughing. Well, now I say bring on the coupons!! I can almost here myself telling my kids this one day ;)
39. There are times that I despise my cell phone. I used to love having my cell phone. Now, with my job having me on the phone all day - when I get home, no offense but I don't want to talk to anyone.
40. I feel more ready to be a mommy.
41. I don't really like Lifetime movies anymore - I used to watch that channel all the time but not so much anymore.
42. After working in the Corporate Setting for a year - I now understand the point of group projects.
43. I watch one news program a day so I know what it is going on. I used to watch it more. ts not from lack of interest but Geogria news is scary...
44. I buy my blue jeans for comfort now - not so they are tight.
45. I have discovered two things that I am better at than Chad - Drum Roll please.... Rumikub and Snow Skiing. I dominate at Rumikub and I was better at Skiing.
46. I read over my e-mails before sending them. I used to just type and go- type and go. However, I realize that I tend to leave words out and at times they don't really make sense.
47. Chad and I have already paid off one of my college loans!! Go us!
48. I now carry kleenex in my purse like my mom always told me to. I never did before and I wish I would have listened sooner :)
49. I am slowly getting over my fear of hanging things on the walls at the house. It just seems so permanent when I do it that I get scared.
50. I try not to get mad about silly or little things. Life is too short and I don't want to live my life like that :)

50 Things I plan to do/change within the next year or in the near future:

1. Chad and I would like to join a church soon. I would like to be able say we have a church home.
2. I would like for Chad and I to take some vacations atleast one to a place that we have never been before.
3. I would like to be successful in the position at work I will embarking on soon.
4. I'd like to get really good at cooking and trying new things.
5. Better at planning meals.
6. I want to go to New York and attend Rachel Ray's show.
7. I want to purchase a King Size bedroom set for our bedroom and move the Queen into another room for guests.
8. I would like to make the pine bed in our front yard not so large. I feel like it takes up all of the room.
9. I would like to have a pool table. I love playing and I think it would be fun to have at the house.
10. I'd like to purchase Dining Room furniture. My china is still in the boxes because I have no where to put it. I don't want to get it out and risk messing it up.
11. I'd really like some patio furniture but that is low on the priority list.
12. I's like to take up scrapbooking before we have kids. That would keep me busy and give me a craft to work on.
13. I would like to get some of our wedding pictures in larger forms and have them framed.
14. I want to go to Stone Mountain with some friends.
15. I'd like to go to Six Flags on a non-busy day. I haven't been in years.
16. I'd like to go to Atlantis in the Bahamas really bad!
17. I'm hoping to go to Harry Potter World down in Florida at Universal Studios. Laugh all you want...I like what I like and will not apologize.
18. I'd like for Chad and I to find a hobby that both of us enjoy to do together.
19. I would like to be successful at puting a Disney Photo Mosaic puzzle together.
20. I want to find a fabric that I like for the kitchen for some kitchen curtains to replace what I have now.
21. I'd like to learn a new curly style for my hair that looks good on me.
22. I hope that the economy will get back on it's feet.
23. I hope that after my sister graduates next year, she won't have a hard time finding a job.
24. I hope that Chad and I make some friends down in Newnan.
25. I hope that my sister will get engaged :)
26. I hope I am able to spend even more time with Honey (My grandmother) over the next year.
27. I would like to start a garden, however, the deer in Newnan will not cooperate.
28. I hope to make it out to Texas to visit Brian and Tina but most importantly TRISTAN :)
29. I hope to become very savvy with using coupons at the grocery store. I know there is a system and I plan on figuring it out.
30. I want to bust out a small wall in our master bathroom and get a bigger shower.
31. I would like to win a contest. I have never one a contest and would really like to.
32. I hope that my friendships with my girlfriends will continue to deepen and strengthen.
33. I hope that I continue to take steps of faith to stay on the path that God has for Chad and I.
34. I am going to try not to use LOL anymore. I think it is completely overused.
35. I would like to attend a UGA game in Athens.
36. I hope that Chad is able to stay with the company he is with once he turns out next April.
37. I'd like to meet some of our neighbors.
38. For the first time in my life I am planning to get a comfortable pair of tennis shoes. I have really high archs which doesn't allow me to run because I get cramps in my feet. I am going this weekend to a store in Atlanta that puts you on a machine and recommends shoes for you. Super pumped about that.
39. I would like to attend more Braves games.
40. Chad and I want to go to atleast one Falcons game this year.
41. I hope that UGA makes it to the SEC Championship game this year so that I can get tickets for working :)
42. In the next year, I would like to tone up. I want to get on a regular exercise routine.
43. This is a stretch but I would love to meet Rachel Ray :)
44. I hope to get better at printing pictures out.
45. I would like to have our friends and families over for a cookout this summer.
46. I would like to come up with my very own recipe.
47. I'd like to meet up with my dad when I can to have breakfast on Saturdays. He has no idea how much it meant to me when we went out for breakfast two days before I got married. I felt like his little girl all over again. I even got chocolate chip pancakes :)
48. I would like to get a stove that heats to the correct temperature to prove to the hubbs that I am a good baker!
49. I would like to play tennis more often.
50. I want to still be at the center of God's Will for Chad and I.

Some of these are far-fetched, expensive, not reasonable, not realistic and the list could go on and on. But hey, this is my list; you can make your own.

Anything Goes - Quick Step

2010-04-09T14:24:00.003-04:00

This is by far one of my favorite dances from this season so far. I think the choreography is fantastic!! Maybe it's because I love Broadway but it makes me think of something I would see at a play. I was disappointed when they didn't get 10's straight across. Who are you cheering for on Dancing with the Stars and which teacher's choreography do you enjoy the most???