The Smith's

Getting so big

2009-07-17T13:21:00.000-07:00

Add is getting so big. She woke up from nap the other day and asked if she could get her ears pierced. I said yes, thinking she wouldn't go through with it. But she did..... The proof is below. She is so proud of herself, but her mama is a little down, as it is just another step in her growing up. I am just not ready? Can someone please invent a way to freeze time? Come on, people!!!

She also threw out the first pitch at a baseball game the other evening. What a big girl!!!

And my little Jack, he is my little man. I love him so much, he makes me laugh everyday. I love them both so much and am just so thankful!!!

Summer is here

2009-06-02T18:17:00.000-07:00

I could not be more excited that summer is here!!! I cannot wait to just relax and not be on a schedule for the next 10 weeks!!! Here are a few pictures of the first few days of summer that we have been taking advantage of! We took the kids out on the boat with Robbie and Karen last weekend, I thought they would be so scared. But they both loved it! Addison was jumping off the back of the boat everytime we stopped so she could swim!

A couple of weeks to go

2009-05-13T18:39:00.000-07:00

I am so done with school. Addison is as well. As much as she loves school, she is ready to be done with Nonny's, she has simply outgrown it. This summer is going to rock. We have no major trips planned, which is so exciting to me!! That means lots of pool time and beach time!

We celebrated Jack's second birthday last weekend. It was wonderful. I realize at every birthday just how very blessed I am. My life is complete.

This weekend we are off to the mountain house with Justin, Tracie, and "baby LaLa" as Addison still calls her. So funny, Laura is now two, but to Addison she is still a baby. After that I will have two weeks left of school - praise the Lord!!! I can't wait to have 10 weeks off!!!

Easter

2009-04-13T05:52:00.000-07:00

Easter was amazing. We went to one of our favorite places on earth - Edgar's grandfather's. It is smack-dab in the middle of the country and is the most peaceful place in the world. The kids ran around all weekend in the freedom of the farm. It was just a wonderfully peaceful weekend reminding us of how blessed we are.

This week I am on spring break. I am so glad. I needed a break! The kids did too. Today we are going to the gym and then will just stay here the rest of the day. Tomorrow Addison and Jack both have school so Mommy will get a little time to herself! Yippeee!!!

Easter always reminds me of how much I have been given - I need to try to focus on those blessings each and every day - even the days that are frustrating ;-) I pray everyone has a wonderful week!

Jack's Trip to the ER

2009-04-09T11:21:00.000-07:00

I have been so lucky never to have rushed either of my kids to the ER, until yesterday. Addison had a trip to the hospital before, but they sent us from her doctor, so I have never had to pack everything up and go to the ER.....

Last night I was getting ready to go to Meredith's and Andy's for dinner and Jack fell. Literally within a minute, an area of his head was as big as a baseball. So I freaked out. I was not made to be a trama nurse. I yelled at Addison to get shoes on, called the neighbor to come get her, and ran out of the door with a screaming Jack. We were at the ER in no time. Poor little guy, they said nothing was wrong with him, but it just really shook him up. Today he has a big knot and a cut on his little head.

I guess I shouldn't say things like, "I haven't had to take my kids to the ER" because just days later, look what happens! And instead of a yummy dinner at Mer's, we ended up with soup from a can when we got home at 9pm. Sigh..........The things you give up for kiddies!

I pray everyone has a wonderfully happy Easter full of gracious thanksgiving!

Addison's School Circus

2009-02-19T16:09:00.000-08:00

Addison had a circus at her school. She got on stage and sang a song and walked on a tight rope! Edgar and I were so nervous that she would see us and freak out, but she did wonderfully! She had such a good time! Here are a few pictures.

Other than the usual business of every day life, nothing new is going on. St. James is set to open our new daycare soon, so my life will be considerably less stressful as of May 1st! Edgar is really looking forward to that.

Jack is doing well at Ms. Wilmore's. He calls her: Milmore. I kept him home with me today so we could spend some time together alone and I think he would have rather been at "Milmore's"!

Jack's favorite pastime

2009-01-30T10:06:00.000-08:00

So Jackson's newest "trick" is that he loves to take the entire roll of toilet paper and put it in the toilet. We can always tell he has done it because after he throws it in there, he closes the lid. So, for example, just now I was doing dishes, heard the toilet lid close, and heard his little self running down the hall laughing. Sure enough he put the new roll, which Addison had just placed on the rack "all by herself" (because we do everything all by ourselves now....) in the toilet. So I had to stop doing dishes to go fishing.... No matter what we do - time out, a pop on the hand, nothing deters him from whatever fun he seems to have by doing it. Maybe it is our reaction he gets such a kick out of.

The picture I am posting has made me realize I have got to get a few more pictures of me and my little man. This one is of Addison and I at our favorite "tea" place. Jack is in school now on Thursdays, so it gives Add and I "gurl time". Yesterday we went to the tea place for lunch, and all of the women in there adored Addison in her jewelry!

This is love....

2009-01-16T09:37:00.000-08:00

I can't even believe how wonderfully in love with each other Jack and Add are....They make me smile so much. Here is a picture of Addison taking her "bubby" for a ride. Jack depends on his "ditty" so much! The poor boy can't say much, but one word he has down to a science is "ditty" and she loves answering to it!

Jack started a new "school" in the new year. He really enjoys it. Because of his hearing, we had to get him in somewhere that would work with him a little more one on one, and Mrs. Wilmore and Mrs. Boyd are so sweet to him. He really enjoys it and really likes having his own place to go! When Addison and I go to pick him up every afternoon, he could care less that I am there. He just wants to hug his "ditty". They walk to the car holding hands - it is the cutest thing ever!!!

We have a long weekend because of MLK day and I am so excited to be at home and enjoy the break!

See if this works for pictures

2009-01-02T18:42:00.000-08:00

So here are a few pictures from the past month. The first picture is about 1 of 100 we tried to take on Christmas eve. Obviously it didn't work so well. The next is our kids pestering MeMe's new cat (which the kids picked out for Christmas for her - thank goodness she like it otherwise we would have had a cat). The bottom two are the kids in their jammies - the one of just Addison is for her pajama day at school - she was so excited! Enjoy!

Happy New Year!

2009-01-02T18:32:00.000-08:00

I need to get it together and put some pictures on here, but I haven't downloaded ones from Christmas yet. At any rate, I wanted to wish everyone a happy new year! I know so many friends who have such a big year ahead - welcoming children into the world. I hope you all know how excited I am for you and what a wonderful world it will be with your children in it!

So many others are beginning new adventures and I hope you know I can't wait to hear about what all is going on in your world! I love you all and can't wait to hear and see your life evolve in 2009!

Get your title back with title max.....

2008-12-12T04:58:00.000-08:00

So last night Edgar and I were watching TV while Addison was sitting at the table coloring and when the Title Max commercial came on, she started singing! How sad is that???? My kid knows the Title Max jingle..... Sigh..... I guess whatever marketing person came up with it did a good job, because it obviously stays in your head if even a 3 year old knows it!!

Have a good day!

This is for Melissa Adams....

2008-12-03T16:26:00.001-08:00

One of my BFF's for life.... She complained about my lack of blogging. I actually thought I was being annoying with all of the updates and pictures, but as long as at least one person is looking I guess I will continue.

Addison is doing well. She loves school and one of the pictures is from her Indian Cookout. She wasn't thrilled - she is very shy at school and so doesn't like big productions like that. But we had fun. She is learning a lot and as I went to register her for Pre-K earlier this month I was a little sad. She will be such a big girl - wearing a uniform and all! Very sad, but it will be so great to have her where I am.

Jack is also doing well. He is having surgery on Friday for his hearing. We are hoping this corrects all of the problems. He has 30-50% hearing loss in each ear, so the poor little guy doesn't even speak yet because he can't hear things well enough. I am taking next week off to be with him which means I only have 3 more days of work before Christmas break! Yippeee!!!!

I hope everyone else out there is preparing for a blessed Christmas!

Busy few weeks

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

We have had such a busy few weeks. We went to Plains a few weeks ago for the Peanut Festival. Jack ran with me in the race - and by ran with me I mean I pushed him in the stroller. He loved it - I think he is fast becoming my little running buddy. On Thursday mornings while Addison is at school, he and I go on a run. I love it - I am finally able to spend time with him like I spent with Addison.

While at the festival, Addison got to get her picture taken with a "princess" (the Ms. Peanut). She was beside herself to meet a real princess!

This past week was very tough - I lost a dear friend. Last night at the funeral it was especially tough. One of the hardest things is to watch a parent have to sit through the funeral for their child. No parent should have to bury a child...

Hope you enjoy the few pictures!

That Little Stinker..... (pun intended)

2008-09-10T14:23:00.000-07:00

So Monday night, my adorable little son decided to play a trick on his Mommy.... Only, the trick is turning out not to be so funny.... Edgar was golfing that afternoon for work, so he wasn't home for our normal dinner/bath ritual. Jackson pooped at the dinner table. So I took Addison and put her in the bath when we were all done, and then took Jack to change him. I usually take the diapers right out to the trash outside, but didn't want to leave Addison in the tub that long, so I put it in the hallway to take out after bath.

In the confusion of having to get both of them out of the bath and dressed in pjs, I forgot about the diaper. I went and did dishes and laundry while they played. About an hour later, I remembered it, and when I went to get it from the hallway, guess what? It was gone.... So I asked Addison who says she didn't take it. Which I believe because she would have picked it up and brought it to me. So it must have been the Jack-man. I looked all over the dern house - in trashcans, toy baskets, the tub - no diaper. One would think I would have smelled it by now, but no such luck.

Anyway..... aren't kids just the cutest things? Please pray I find the diaper before a mass of flies gets into the house and points it out to me..... (or before we lose power on a hot day!!!!)

Crazy, Crazy, Crazy

2008-09-04T10:17:00.000-07:00

Man, what a crazy couple of weeks. I feel like we have yet to slow down. Actually, now I remember feeling like that all of last year. Amazing how time just keeps flying by. It seems like there is always something going on.

Addison started school this week. She is unsure in the mornings, but when I pick her up, she is elated. She really seems to be enjoying the days there. I hope she continues to do so. I will admit, that it breaks my heart a little to see her with her "school bag", as she calls it, on each morning. It is humbling how big she is getting. Sometimes I wish life had a pause button, where we could just maintain where we are right now.

We also went to Athens this past weekend. Nancy and Antonio moved into a new house, and we hadn't seen them since June so I needed some "Livvy" time as well. We are so blessed to have an extended family as we do. Edgar and I can just be ourselves - nothing more or less - with them and they love us. We pray they feel the same way. The picture of the kids together is me trying to get a cute one of them and obviously they aren't having it......

While in Athens, Edgar found out one of his friends from back home was going through a tough time. Her baby passed away unexpectedly at 7 months old. It is funny how you can be so distant from people but when you hear something like that, it is almost like you can feel their pain. I cried (and have since) several times during the weekend. Even looking at my two perfect babies, thankful that it wasn't me dealing with it but scared to know that it could have been. I am just so saddened that any mother, father, grandmother, grandfather, is having to experience that. If anything, it makes me hold on to my little "world" a little tighter. Please keep praying for that family - how do you ever recover from something like that? Through prayer is the only answer I can think of.

Enjoy the few pictures.....

The Jack-man

2008-08-21T16:32:00.001-07:00

I have said for a long time that having a boy is so different than a girl. He not only has a whole different personality but really likes things that Addison never did. The pictures are of us in the mountains. Jackson loved the house dog that was around - just as much as he loves Boomy (our dog). Addison can't stand dogs, they are just so different - which means it is never a dull moment around our house!!!

She sure does keep us laughing

2008-08-21T16:17:00.000-07:00

Addison certainly has a wonderful personality! She is constantly reminding us how much she enjoys life! Here a few pictures of our recent days around the house!! She loves to dress up, thankfully we have a great thrift store in Savannah and can outfit her accordingly.

Enjoy!

My love

2008-08-14T17:59:00.001-07:00

There is nothing that makes me more happy and complete in this world than him.... Seven years ago last week we decided to spend the rest of our lives together. That was the best decision of my life. I am one of the lucky ones who found true love and can honestly say I am still in love with Edgar. There have been tests and trials, but life is complete with him....

Princess Tea for a Princess

2008-08-06T10:24:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my friend Meredith and I took Addison to a "Princess lunch". We went to The Tea Room downtown and just had girl time! Addison was in her element - she had the best time! And Meredith and I did too just watching her enjoy herself! Enjoy!

Back From Vacay

2008-07-15T16:00:00.000-07:00

We are back from our vacation. Which means, sadly, soon work and school will be starting back. Oh how I wish I could hang on to summer forever. There is just nothing better.....

Here are a few pictures. We first went to Atlanta to run the Peachtree. Which was great - I was able to run the entire thing without stopping, and Edgar only had to stop a few times. Considering the man hasn't run since March, that is unbelievable!!! We then went to Nashville for a few days. Edgar fell in love with the town. Then we came back to Ga to spend a few days with my folks in Blueridge. They are trying to find a house up that way - just a vacation place for when they retire, so they wanted us to visit the town. It was very, very fun.

The kids are glad to be home. Jacks has come down with a little something, so he is beside himself with feeling ill. Which makes the days oh so fun. Poor Addison she doesn't understand why we can't go to the pool each day. One day next week she and I are going to paint pottery together! I can't wait!

I took her shopping with me Sunday and I bought a purse. She found one she liked and asked if she could get it. I told her if she really wanted it, we could go home and get money out of her piggy bank and come back and get it. She then told me, "that's ok, Mommy. I don't need it". Oh my! I am raising a little diva....... She was all about the purse if I was buying, but when she has to fork over her own money she doesn't "need" it.....

Have a good week!

Happy 4th of July!

2008-07-02T12:47:00.000-07:00

We all leave tomorrow for our vacation! I could not be more excited! It will be a much anticipated trip. We are first going to Atlanta - to see Edgar's family. It has been way too long. Edgar and I are also running in the Peachtree, it should be interesting. I have been getting up at 5:30am every morning to meet Karen and Maggie to run, and Edgar hasn't run since the Tybee race.

We are then going to head to Nashville to visit some of my family. I am very excited - I haven't been there since I was in college. Edgar has never been. It will be a great trip. On the way home we are stopping in Blue Ridge for a few days. My parents are looking to buy a home there, and we want to see what the fuss is all about. They have rented a house for the week and we are going to invade for a few days.

We got great news the other day - my dad went in for his cancer screening and they only found one place that they had to send off to be tested! It was such a blessing! My mom is beside herself, and my dad too. Sometimes I just feel like God blesses us in such wonderful ways. This father's day I thought about how lucky I am to have such a wonderful father. I feel so blessed and I try to live every day without taking it for granted.

The pictures are from when the Arata's came down for a visit recently. I took the girls to have their toes done - which is Addison and my favorite thing to do and to the pool!

Happy Birthday Addison & Beach With the Woods'

2008-06-23T13:43:00.000-07:00

What a month, and it is not even over!!

We went to the beach for a week with the Woods'. It was great - not our "real" vacation, as Edgar worked through much of it. But it was a nice kick off to the summer. The kids had a good time. We played a lot on the beach, and when they weren't down there, Robbie had bought a water slide for the 4 of them to play in. We feel so blessed to have such great friends.

After that was Addison's 3rd birthday! I literally cannot believe that my dear sweet princess is 3. I don't want it to be true sometimes, the time just goes so fast!! She had a great time at her pool party and everytime we have been back since she talks about the next time she has a party there..... She is adorable. I am truly blessed to have two wonderful, beautiful, healthy children and a wonderfully adorable and sweet husband. Every night I thank God for this awesome life that I am not worthy of..... Enjoy the pics!

Update

2008-06-04T12:55:00.000-07:00

Well, summer has officially begun! We are so excited! The kids are done with Nonny's for the next 2 1/2 months and I am done with everything resembling work! These last few weeks have been crazy. Next week we have a beach house with Karen & Robbie and their kids, so all four of us are excited about that. Today we went to the pool with them and planned out our week, it is fun just to think of having no where to be, or go besides the beach! I can't wait!!

Next Friday is Addison's 3rd birthday. It is very sad. She is just growing up so quickly. Next year she will go to school three days a week from 9-12. Seeing her with a little book bag will be the saddest thing ever :-) It truly is just amazing how quickly time passes. There are so many things I want to remember about each of them right now.

Here are a few pictures a month or two in the making. There is one recent one of Jack and Add, one of Edgar and I and our friends Carmen and Troy who came to visit from Texas, and one of me and some ladies from the firm at the South Magazine release party. Happy Summer to you all!!

Much to Thank the Good Lord For....

2008-04-25T17:55:00.000-07:00

We went to a neighborhood party tonight..... It was a lot of fun. A band played.... The kids danced.... And as I was watching my two children dance and laugh in the cool air, I was also watching a disabled child.... My uncle who passed away gave his life to working with the retarded.... They have so much to offer. I can't even count the times we went with one of his dearest friends, Skipper to Six Flags.... Skipper and I would ride the Mine Train over and over.... He could never understand why each time we had to get out and get back in line again. Those memories are in the fore-front of my mind..... I need to devote more time to working with the less fortunate, and getting my kids to do the same.

Tonight as we lay down to sleep, we have so much to be thankful for. We are so blessed in so many ways, watching the innocence of three children dance together in the evening air is another one of His great blessings......................

First beach trip

2008-04-15T09:20:00.001-07:00

This weekend we went on our first trip to the beach for the summer. It was so fun, although a little chilly, Addison got in the water anyway! She is a mess. It was also my grandfather's 90th birthday and the Arata's were down, so it was a fun weekend.

We are home today, Addison isn't feeling too well. She and I were snuggling on the couch earlier and I just felt so thankful. There was a time when I first had her that I was distant from her. I really struggled the first year of her life, and I often pray she will never remember those times. I am so thankful that today I am such a better mother, more attentive and selfless. I would give an arm and a leg to be with my babies and make them happy, and there was a time when that just wasn't the case. I was too worried about work or going to the gym.

Enjoy our summery pictures, we are all waiting on warmer weather!!

Easter

2008-04-02T13:57:00.000-07:00

What an exciting Easter we had this year! The kids (well, Addison mostly) loved it! We were in Athens for Easter, and attended the Athens Egg Drop. This is where a helicopter flies over a field and drops 20,000 eggs. We just knew that we would get plenty! When we arrived, we were in shock over how many people where there. All of the eggs were literally gone in 10 seconds, and Addison got none! Thank goodness her sweet cousin showed her that some where under the stroller - so she did get a few! It was so fun, we can't wait to go back next year!

The Easter Bunny came to both the Arata's house in Athens and my mom's house. It was so fun for Addison. My birthday this year was very uneventful - we are saving everything up for next year. 30 will be hard on me I think - it marks a whole different part of your life.

The school year will be coming to an end soon and we are so looking forward to a summer spent by the pool. The kids won't be going to Nonny's during the summer, so she will really miss them.

I have written two articles for the new Savannah Magazine, "Something Blue" so please email me if you would like a copy of the April edition. Once you get the first one you can subscribe and have it sent to you directly - it is free for this first year. I am so excited about it and hope I become a regular contributor!

Enjoy the pictures and the Spring weather!

My little swimmers

2008-02-07T09:46:00.001-08:00

Jackson is at the point now where I am more willing to go out on my days off. At first, we pretty much just stayed home on Thursdays and Fridays. But now, with him being a little easier to tote around and much more mobile, we go out often. One of our recently found favorite things to do is go to the pool. The YMCA here has an inside pool. Both kids love it and it really wears them out - which is a plus for Mommy!!

Jackson goes for a checkup in about a week. Let's all pray he has grown, because as of last time, although he weighed in only 2lbs short of Addison's current weight, he was only in teh 19% for height. Don't know where he gets that, there are no shorties in my family! I am going to end up with a tall thin little girl and a short cubby boy. Hee hee! Maybe there will be some football scholarships in his future! Oh well, at least he is cute :-)

Have a great weekend!

Runners we have become

2008-02-03T06:06:00.000-08:00

I can blame it on Maggie. She was the original inspiration. Well, in sorts she was. I have always enjoyed running and have always wanted to really succeed at it. But something always came up. Until Maggie. She really inspired me to stay with it and she is the perfect example of the "can do" attitude.

Edgar ran as a child. He and his father were always doing races, so he was always an inspiration.

And lastly, I really want my children to grow up seeing a good example as far as health. Addison and Jack accompany me on my days off to the Y, and she knows I "work out". Now, when she plays pretend she often tells us she is "going to the Y to work out". I am glad, because I want her to exercise as she gets older. It helps so much with your heart, keeping it in good shape, and your mind, and even can help your immune system. And the most appealing part of exercise is that you can do it as a family. I LOVE taking walks with the kids and Edgar. We do so much talking. Because there is no TV, or phone, or anything to keep us from being in nature and enjoying one another's company.

So in short, we have become runners. And we love it. The picture is of my brothers and I and then Edgar and I on the Tybee race day. Nolan, my younger brother, ran it in an amazing 24 minutes!!

Next up is the Shamrock run, and then we are heading to Atlanta to do the Great Urban Race with Maggie and her husband. Hopefully we will be able to register for the Peachtree, although we hear it is really hard to get into. If you have never done a race, they are so fun - try it out sometime, even if you can't run and just walk - they are still so much fun!! Remember, it is good for your heart!!

Addison is a trip

2008-01-26T08:48:00.000-08:00

Addison is now 2 1/2 and she is a riot. She keeps Edgar and I laughing pretty much all of the time. She gets fixated on things and does NOT forget. If Edgar or I make a promise, we better follow through.....

The other day we went to our friends house and Addison and Camryn played and played outside. After we left Addison informed us that she NEEDED a "har" like Camryn's. But it was going to be pink. Edgar said, "Maybe for your birthday". Well, I don't think her birthday can get here fast enough now. All she talks about is the pink "har" she is getting for her birthday. Two days ago was my brother's birthday. Addison asked if he wanted a pink "har".

Note to self: never say Maybe unless we plan on actually doing it. At this point, we have no choice ;-)

On another note, today is the 5 year anniversary of Edgar's dad passing. Although it has gotten easier each year, we still miss him so. We wish he had been able to meet Add and Jack. There is no doubt he would have thought Addison's sassy moments were funny and Jack's toothless/hairless face was the most precious he had seen.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

2007-12-31T10:30:00.000-08:00

Wow! What an amazing year it has been.... Life is good. Edgar and I are having so much fun and just enjoying our new lives here in Savannah.

Addison is doing great. She is registered for Pre School for next year. Just a three day a week program, so she won't be at Nonny's, but she will be with all of her friends still. They are all going to Isle of Hope Methodist Pre School. Jackson will still go to Nonny's the days I work and Add is at Pre School.

The greatest blessing of this year came in the form of a little 7lbs, 15oz baby boy. We just feel so lucky that we are Jack's parents. There could not be a happier baby. I was terrified of having another infant after Addison. She wasn't exactly a "good" baby. None of it her fault, she just struggled a lot, with eating, sleeping, etc. But Jack, he renewed my faith in babies!!! He came out sleeping through the night, eating like a hoss, and just constantly being happy and content. And oh boy does he love his sister! They are so close, which does my heart so much good....

Tonight we are hosting a New Years Eve Game Night. It should prove to be as interesting as the one after Thanksgiving! We are so blessed to have such wonderful neighbors who we love to be around - it makes nights like tonight so great because we don't have to actually go anywhere!!

All in all, life couldn't be better. Every night when we pray with Addison we thank God for all of our many blessings. We pray you and your family rest your heads tonight at the close of this New Year with as many blessings as have been bestowed upon our lives.....

Wish me luck

2007-11-29T04:55:00.000-08:00

So Maggie and I ran a 5K two weeks ago. It went great. We didn't make the BEST time, but we really kicked some serious butt! That was in preperation for the Savannah Big Bridge Run that is Saturday. I am so nervous, but so excited. She and I are slowly trying to work our way up to the Peachtree in July and then the Army 10mile in the Fall...... We shall see.... So wish us both luck, we will need it!!

New Moms....

2007-11-15T05:06:00.000-08:00

So many of our friends have had children recently. I sent an email out about an article I read about Mommy's finding Mommy time in their weeks. It is so hard, but the email was so true. Anyone that knows me knows I struggled right after I had Addison. I was so distant from her. I loved her, yes, but it wasn't that mushy, cuddlely, snugglely love.... I didn't rush home from work to be with her every night. Instead, I went to the gym. I would delayed going home as long as possible.... Sounds horrible, I know..... I have since learned, and feel like I have made great strides....

But, in the past two weeks, I have come to realize, that it might not have been just me.... What I mean is this - Jackson has been sick lately. At first he was just teething, and then it progressed... Staying up all night, not napping, me staying home from work to watch him, etc. It has been rough. He doesn't want to be put down at all. Anyone who has laid eyes on Jackson knows this is SOOOO not him. He is the most laid back and chill baby ever. He is a good eater normally and loves to sleep. He started sleeping through the night when he was 5 months old.... We were SOOO lucky. Anyway, I got to the point the other day when I just had to get out. I called my mom and asked her to come over after school for an hour. I just couldn't take it anymore. I felt for the first time ever with him that I could not hold him another second.... I feel like many first time mom's with difficult babies go through this. What I just described in a nut shell was Addison. She NEVER slept, she didn't want to eat, and was constantly sick. It was horrible for about the first 9 months. I honestly don't know how Edgar and I did it (and then wanted more kids....)

Anyway, I hope all moms know that while we aren't perfect, we need time to get be alone without demanding children. And they are so demanding. Now, I am not advicating going to the gym after work, because in hindsight, that was selfish, I could have worked her into my exercising like I do now with both of them, but time away is what the doctor calls for. I often talk to Edgar about if I had been a little more relaxed and if she weren't such a difficult baby, would I still feel like I wasn't the best mom the first year of her life.

I talked to my priest about having pent up frustration with how I acted that first year. And even though he is a man, he is such a wise man..... He said by knowing I did wrong and improving it, is what matters - not the mistakes. This is how God looks at our lives and our mistakes as well..... Anyway, to all you knew mothers, and women thinking of being a mother - I am thinking of you. And the first year is the roughest anyway, after that, it is smooth sailing. I never thought I would love just being with my little monkies as I do. Addison told me the other day that I was her "best friend". Now, could you ever beat that???

Addison went to Princesses on Ice!

2007-11-13T16:21:00.000-08:00

Addison went with my parent's to see the Disney Princesses on Ice this past weekend! She had a wonderful time - Pop (whom if anyone knows my daddy knows he is about the cheapest man EVER) sprang for the good seats for his "Sweetie Pie" and she enjoyed every minute!

We are home this week as Jackson is sick. I don't mind so much, I didn't get to take time off with Addison when she was sick, so it is nice to have both of my love bugs home all week.

New York

2007-11-04T16:23:00.000-08:00

We had such a wonderful time in NY..... Hopefully Edgar and I can go back sometime soon without kids and do the romantic tour of the city! The picture of Addison is at the Bronx Zoo - she was showing the toys that she got - one is for her and one is for Jackson! She missed him so much, and he missed her.... He didn't even care when we got home to see Edgar and I, all he wanted was his sissy.....

Sigh......

2007-10-19T11:48:00.001-07:00

I have a very "Type A" personality. My husband, does not. That is why we work so well together I believe....

BUT, Right now, my stress level couldn't be higher.... We leave for NY in 4 days. And I have NOTHING packed. Nothing. Yesterday, I finally went to the store to buy Jackson enough food to get him through at my mom's house, but other than that, I am way behind "schedule". I need to do a Sam's run, get dinner's fixed for this week when we are here, get the house cleaned, laundry done, and most importantly, PACK!

Addison could not be more excited about this trip. She doesn't really understand, but will enjoy the time alone with us. I will post pictures of the trip when we return. Wish me luck!

It's like going home....

2007-10-07T06:32:00.000-07:00

We took Addison to the GSU game a week ago and she loved it! She is still talking about the Eagles!! And Edgar and I loved it too..... Going to Statesboro holds so many wonderful memories for us - it is where we fell in love and decided to start a life together. Hopefully we will take Addison back soon!

September

2007-09-23T16:24:00.000-07:00

Wow, it has been awhile.... We are so busy. I only thought this summer was busy. And it would seem like our travel schedule would slow down with two kids, but Jackson is just so laid back and chill - we pretty much do whatever we want - with him dragging along with us....

Both Addison and Jackson are at Nonny's the three days I work. It has been great. They both love it there, and Jackson has not had one moment of difficulty. Addison is a rock-star at her Gymnastics still. We were going to take a session off, but she threw a fit. And she loves it so much. I hope they move her up to the next level class soon because it is getting almost unbearable for me to take Jackson in the Snuggli. Addison's friend Calvin from Nonny's goes now, as does one of my girlfriends from work and her daughter "Hamryn" (Camryn).

Edgar is still loving work. They keep us busy, that is for sure! We have two firm events in October to attend and he is traveling once with them (we are taking this trip off!!). This hardly leaves time for the family and football.

I still greatly enjoy work. My biggest blessing there is my aid, Maggie. Besides being a wonderful friend, she is an inspiration as a woman. She does so much - so much that some don't even realize, and does it all with grace. She is truly a beautiful person and I feel so blessed that she is in my life and is my friend. I had my high school reunion a few weeks ago, and it was AWESOME! It was so wonderful to see so many folks from high school and catch up.

So that is the past month or so in a nut shell. We are going to be so busy coming up - we have a trip to Atlanta planned, a few to Athens, St. Simons for the GA/FLA game, and then taking the kids to NY for a week (and by week I mean 5 days ;-)) I will post some pictures of all of those soon!!

These are the moments....

2007-08-06T13:40:00.001-07:00

I have such a wonderful little girl and boy... Although Jackson can't communicate yet like Addison, it is such a joy to just watch him daily... Just today as Addison touched my cheek and said, "I love you, Mama" I thought, this is what life is about... These are the moments that make our lives complete. It is the small moments in life... not the big ones that define us. It is our spouse and a loving touch from them, or the things our children say and in Jackson's case, do. It is our friends, and family. It is the daily lives that we lead that are so precious.

The four of us were riding down the road on Saturday listening to a JoJo's Circus CD that Livvy gave Addison and we had the windows down and it turned up. Out of the blue Addison says, "I happy my DaddyMama" (that is her name for both of us when she is too lazy to say Mommy and Daddy). I thought I might just pass out with joy - they pick up on the neatest things and a moment like that makes me feel complete and as if all of the not so great moments in life are worth it..... I hope my sweet peanut will always tell her DaddyMama that she is happy.......

Happiness

2007-08-03T16:51:00.000-07:00

There is so much happiness in my life right now that sometimes I get overwhelmed. There have been so many periods were I would not allow myself to be happy and only looked at what was wrong. There have been periods of life where I didn't act like a very nice person and let other people down. But this past year has taught me so much about living in the moment and in the day. I made a vow to stop being so unhappy and live each moment where I could lay my head down at night happy with who I was and my life. And I am.... I get to sleep next to the most wonderful man I know, and know in my heart that he and I daily work at a good marriage. I enjoy the work I do, and the time it allows me to be a mother and wife. I was able to lose 60lbs since my last beautiful child was born with determination and hard work.... And most of all, I don't wake up full of regret or remorse for past sins. I wake up feeling excited about the new day ahead. I think I realized that life is so short and I might not have another "today". I want to be as that song says, "Never let go a chance to forgive.... Never hold any regrets...." God has graced me with so many wonderful things and I have stopped taking them for granted! I have finally become truly, truly happy.........

A blast!

2007-07-13T10:28:00.000-07:00

We have had a blast the past couple of weekends! We attended a wedding of some of our friends and got to see so many of our good law school friends (and the secret boys of course!!). I missed the kids like crazy, but it is so nice to get away and have fun "mommy and daddy" time. The weekend before the wedding we got a fancy hotel room in downtown Savannah and played tourists with our friends Justin and Tracie.

Blessings

2007-06-25T11:53:00.001-07:00

We celebrated this weekend.... We had Jackson's christening and once again felt like we are overly blessed as we sat with both my family and Edgar's at our church. The picture is of Jackson's God-parents - Chuck and Sara.

This past week Addison and I got some time to ourselves (that wasn't at "nastics). Weekly, she and I go to a Mommy and Me gymnastics class, which she loves. But we got to sneak away in the evening and head to the mall together. I bought some new shoes and as we were leaving she said, "I yike your ew shoes, Mama"! I thought I was going to pass out because of what a big little girl she sounded like!! I couldn't believe it!

Jackson is doing great, smiling and talking to us. He has been sleeping through the night since about 5 weeks old, so we are so thankful. I don't think I could have taken another baby who was awake as much as Addie was!

This weekend Edgar and I are going on our anniversary trip. Justin and Tracie are going with us. The following weekend we are going to Greenville together for a wedding of one of our law school friends, so we are thrilled to get some kiddie free time coming up!

We pray everyone is enjoying their summer as much as we are!

Addison's birthday party!

2007-06-20T07:39:00.000-07:00

I will let the pictures speak for themselves - it was a big bash, and a good time was had by everyone..... We are so blessed to have so many wonderful friends and family......

So much to be thankful for....

2007-06-12T18:53:00.000-07:00

My younger brother has been forced to deal with more loss in his life than most should.... He had a friend of his shot after leaving a ball in Savannah on Christmas eve several years ago. She passed away a week afterwards.... Then this past Sunday, his roommate's sister passed away in a car accident after leaving a Brave's game. Four young people died in that accident, and the driver, who survived, will always think of her friends in the car....

I am very saddened by the news of this young woman's untimely passing. I cannot help but think of her poor mama... And how her life will always be filled with the sadness of not having her daughter there to share things with.

More than any lesson this can teach us, I hope it makes everyone hold their loved ones a little closer tonight. We cannot change God's plan for our lives, but we can make sure we cherish every moment we can........

To Live....

2007-06-08T12:29:00.001-07:00

"To live is to struggle and to struggle is to grow..."

I love this quote - a Cory Johnson original. We all face struggles of some kind in life but from those struggles comes growth if we allow it....

And so it goes...

2007-06-05T17:49:00.000-07:00

We took our babies to the beach on Sunday. Both loved it - well, we assume Jackson did. He doesn't say much yet :-)

Addison was a little mad that the water was too cold for her to get in. She loves it - she has no fear whatsoever.

The summer is turning out to be quite a busy one thus far. Addison and I had our first "Mommy and Me" gymnastics class this morning. Her favorite part was jumping and also walking on the balance beam. She loved watching the big girls too!

We have several weeks jammed packed full of weddings, law firm functions, and of course our anniversary getaway! We love being busy and feel blessed to have so many wonderful and fun things ahead of us!

Great Quote

2007-05-26T16:21:00.000-07:00

I am a big fan of different quotes that Oprah says.... I don't often get to watch the show, but the other day I caught it and that this quote was awesome: "Hating someone is like taking poison everyday and hoping someone else dies."

Wow! How true and powerful. The stress that hate and anger put on your body is immense. If we all learned to let go a little more - to the driver who cut us off, to the person who "wronged" us - then we would all be that much healthier and better off too!!

I hope you can get as much out of this quote as I did!

And two became three....

2007-05-13T17:36:00.000-07:00

Close to seven years ago I met the love of my life.... I didn't think it could get any sweeter. Edgar is the type of man whom upon meeting, you know is special. He is not only my best friend, but the most kind, hardworking, and caring person I have ever met. I feel humbled that my children have so many characteristics that are his - they are bound to be beautiful souls.....

Almost two years ago, I gave birth to Edgar's little girl..... And realized, it does get sweeter. The love that is mulitplied when a child is brought into a strong, healthy, and devoted marriage is beyond comprehension. There is no way to explain the amount of selflessness one feels upon rearing a child. Addison filled my entire heart and made it clear to me that I didn't think I could love anything or anyone else more. She is a product of the love of my life and myself. She is a product of all we share and all we hold dear. There is nothing that could compare......

And then, two great loves became three..... Again, it gets sweeter... When you see your husband and child holding the newest addtion to the family - another child.... I prepared myself for the worst. I didn't think I could love again with the intensity that I love Addison. I didn't think it was possible to love her still and love another child in that same way. I was so worried that the baby would suffer because they were already at a disadvantage in my mind. There was no more room in my heart..... But when Jackson came out, it was instant. There was suddenly room and suddenly love. There was my son, Edgar's son, Addison's brother..... And in that instant I realized that the two greatest loves of my life had just become three....

I do not think it is possible to feel more blessed on this Mother's Day than we do tonight. Sleeping in their snug beds are our son and daughter. The future of our family and the two biggest reflections of our love, marriage, and one another....

Happy Birthday, Addison! (Well, a little early)

2007-04-13T08:15:00.000-07:00

I thought this picture was too cute not to share! Addison's birthday party will be June 16th, but we are getting the invitations made up now! My cousin, who is in graphic design and amazingly talented, is making them and this is one of the pictures we have sent her to use! Does it get any cuter than this! And if you aren't doing anything the weekend of the 16th, join us for Addie's wet and wild party!

A proud wife and mom......

2007-03-15T05:11:00.000-07:00

I am so proud of my husband - well, always, but especially the past few weeks. He was chosen to go to Americus, Ga. by his firm to try to land the Sumter Regional Hospital account recently! You can watch a clip of he and his uncle touring the hospital this past week on www.walb.com - click on "SRH gets Carter, Check" and it will take you there. Edgar is visible if you look in the background talking with his Aunt while the interview is going on.

This project is especially meaningful to Edgar since he grew up in Plains, which is just 10 minutes down the road from Americus. He is really trying to get FEMA involved and get some serious action for folks in Americus. Keep him in your prayers!

On another note, Addison is doing better today. She is recovering well from her surgery, although she is still not eating. As you all know, she is so tiny to begin with, it is hard to watch her not eat and lose weight, but I know as soon as she wants food again, she will gain it all back. Keep her in your prayers as well!

Jackson is still hanging in there - and we feel constantly blessed for our sweet girl and little man.

We love you all...

My sweet child

2007-02-24T05:44:00.000-08:00

Edgar and I were in awe of her last night as she slept. We truly don't think there is a more precious sight than this..... She had such a big day and finished it off getting to wear her princess pjs that her cousin Livvy gave her. It was truly a wonderful day for her!

Edgar and I are feel so blessed for this little miracle as well as for her "Bubby". We know each and everyday how wonderful He has been to us.....

Happy Valentine's Day!

2007-02-08T14:20:00.000-08:00

Well, most of you all will be getting a card with this picture in the mail, but I just wanted to post and wish everyone a very Happy Valentine's day! Addie has had a wonderful time sporting this outfit that her Nana made her around town. Today we had lunch at Daddy's office and she showed everyone her beautiful pockets!

We do pray everyone has a beautiful day full of love.

Preparing

2007-01-16T07:39:00.000-08:00

We are offically preparing for the baby. Addie got herself a big girl bed yesterday. She is SO excited, and is very proud to use anything with the name, "big girl" associated with it. I will have to snap a picture of her on it soon and post it.

We had a wonderful long weekend. We traveled to Plains, probably our last trip before Baby Smith arrives. It is tough traveling with a toddler. She is a good rider, though. Edgar's family was glad to see Addie (we have officially realized it is no long about Edgar and I - just Addie). Yesterday Edgar had to work for a bit in the morning and then we went and got the big girl bed. Addie even helped her daddy put it together. We also went through all of Olivia's clothes to get out summer stuff for Addison - her favorite was the bikini which she wore most of the day!

I think once Addie gets over the inital shock of the new baby, she will be such a big helper. She loves to be called, "Mommy's big girl helper" and when I ask her who my big girl is, she proudly raises her hand!

I go back next week for another ultrasound. Let's hope all is well and that we will get some more good pictures! Maybe I will scan one in and post - you can all give your theories on if it is a boy or girl. Next baby - we are finding out. Waiting is tough :-)

I hope everyone has a wonderful week!

A Very Blessed Christmas Indeed

2006-12-26T13:45:00.000-08:00

Wow! It's over, and we had a blast! Edgar asked Addie if she wanted Santa to come everyday and she said, "Yep"! She had a ball, not only with her new toys, but getting to be around family for the past week or so.

Next year she will fully understand the whole "Santa" concept and we won't have to wake her up. Edgar was very excited to wake her up exactly at 7am this year, and once she saw all of the toys in the living room, her morning grumpiness turned to, "WHOA......". Her favorite gift by far was her Barbie Big Wheels it was a close second to her toy purse, makeup and cell phone. I think Edgar was hoping she might have a little "tom-boy" in her, but there is no doubt that girl is all girlie girl. He better watch out!!!

It has been a wonderful few days. We are too thrilled that next year we will have another little one to bring to all of the festivities. Thankfully he or she will be old enough to actually enjoy it a little like Addie did her first Christmas. We look back on last year and are joyous to be in such a better place, and pray that next year will be even better. That's what it's all about anyway.........

What a wonderful world

2006-12-21T05:25:00.000-08:00

I attended a funeral yesterday. It was for a family friend of ours who had cancer. Watching his daughter crumble made me realize how truly blessed I am. My own father has battled cancer, and it could have just as easily been him. As the priest said, "Cancer doesn't know who you are, but we do...."

There is so much that I constantly take for granted. As I sat there yesterday praying that I would never have to bury my husband or see Addie as broken as the young girl was, I realized how much in our daily lives we routinely do. Yet, in such a tragedy, that routine would change in a heartbeat. I am thankful for our dinners together around the table each night. I am thankful for how Addie likes to wake her daddy up on Saturday and Sunday mornings. I am thankful for hearing her little voice saying, "Elp Me" when she needs our assistance.

I am also thankful for the many friends and family that we have around us, who constantly bless us with their love. From those near by, to those far away, our family has always been blessed by love. During this season of thankfulness, I pray each and every one of you know of the impact you have made on our lives. Edgar and I could not have made it through the trails and tribulations of this past year without you all.

This new year we will celebrate bringing a new life into our family. As I sat yesterday in the funeral and felt the baby kicking, I thought of the sweetness of the beginning of life, as well as the bittersweetness of the end of life. Although this father of four will now be painfree and with his maker, there are so many lives grieving for his loss.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all of our loved ones - may you always know how much we love you and may you be as blessed as we are this upcoming year and all to come....