Dash of Grace

A little catch up...

2011-11-08T13:03:00.005-05:00

Wow...my blog has been seriously neglected. I think way back when I promised myself that I would blog just as much once I had my 2nd child just like I had when I just had one. No one informed me that it is hard to do! haha I am blaming those people...certainly not myself! ;)

A little catch up:

Eli turned 3 (my goodness!!) in September and is definitely all boy! He loves all kinds of racecars - pretty much can tell you the difference in any of them whether it be a Porsche, Ferrari, Prototype or Nascar car. He watches Indy and Nascar on TV...it is always on DVR and is his number one request when asked what he wants to watch. He has been obsessed with Kyle Busch and Tony Stewart for a while but also loves Earnhardt, Jeff Gordon, Carl Edwards, Matt Kenseth, David Ragan to name a few. He calls them by there entire names and is constantly "racing" somewhere. He has about 200 matchbox cars and carries them everywhere and sleeps with them every night. No more paci...no more blankie...just race cars!

He started preschool a couple months ago and loves it! He goes twice a week and is learning so much. He is still a HUGE talker...ha, wonder where he gets that from? He is sweet and loving always wanting to kiss and love on you. He is very strong willed and wants his way but we are worrking with him on this. He has the sweetest curls and the longest lashes...both literally melt my heart. He is my buddy and I am smitten still with my boy!

My sweet precious girl, Molly, turned 1 in June and is such a joy! She is our dare devil...not afraid of anything! She is walking around almost running and loves to laugh and squeal...mostly squeal! :) She loves to climb anything and can climb up the slide and up ladder to the playhouse. You have to really watch her! She isn't saying that much that you can understand but she "talks" all day. She can say: Mama, Dada, Eli, Hey baby and uh oh. She waves bye, claps her hands, pints to everything and loves to play peek a boo. Her most favorite thing to do is to look at herself in a mirror (we might be in trouble!) and play. She can be a bit of a diva and throw some temper tantrums but we just laugh. She is usually in a great mood and is so happy...makes me smile every time I look at her! <3

We moved to Loganville in August and are loving our new house. Lee is much closer to work which makes a difference in how much we see him. We are also super closet to Lee's dad/stepmom and my parents which have been a big help. We are still looking for a church home and hope to have a place soon.

Well, I have TONS to catch you up on but that's all for today. It feels good to be back. Missed this!

Wonderful Day

2010-08-25T22:13:00.005-04:00

What a day!! Today I turned 34...not a big birthday...but an absolute wonderful one! It started off with Lee helping me get the kids up and going so that I could take a shower and get dressed by MYSELF!! You other moms know what a blessing that is! :) Then Amy J and Mary brought me breakfast and visited for a couple hours. I have been friends with Amy since the 8th grade and Mary since the 10th grade...nothing like old friends!

I then headed to the movies to see Eat, Pray, Love with Melinda. YES, you read that right...movies...in the middle of the day!! What a treat! Thanks to Mary who took both of my sweet kids to her house for the afternoon. Melinda and I started this tradition last year. We never get out to see movies so we give that to each other on our birthdays. Movie, popcorn, candy...it is SO nice!

I raced to Mary's to pick up the kids...then ran back home to get them packed for a night at Capt and Gigi's. Lee met us at home and we headed to Monroe...mom and dad kept the kids while we had dinner out. Steak and shrimp for me at Longhorns...YUM! Then my dad made his infamous blackberry cobbler with vanilla ice cream.

There were no big gifts (unless you count my used Treadmill that I NEEDED) and no big parties...just a wonderful sweet day with my best friends and family. It was just what I needed! Here are a couple pictures of my family...I want to remember being 34 and being a mama to these sweet babies. They are my life and I am so grateful that I was chosen to be their mom. I am extremely blessed and so thankful for my 34 years! Hears to the next 34!!

Hi There...

2010-08-03T14:31:00.004-04:00

Yeah I know...been gone WAY too long!! So much has happened in our little life. First Eli broke my laptop and we have been without a computer until this past weekend. Yes, I have been living off my Blackberry...aka Crackberry. Plus I found out I was pregnant with our 2nd baby in October. We were surprised but so excited! So the last 10 months have been a bit crazy in these here parts! :)

I am going to try and catch up my blog over the next couple weeks. So if you already know all that has happened and don't want to read about it...you might want to check back in! I have missed you guys!!

So excited to be back! Here are pics of our two lil ones...Eli (22 months)and Molly (6 weeks).

Eli's Party Pictures

2009-09-28T22:32:00.006-04:00

It was a GRAND day...had the best time planning every detail! Lil' man was oblivious to it all but had a great time playing with his favorite people. Fun was had by all!

Happy Birthday Lil' Man

2009-09-13T00:47:00.003-04:00

I cannot believe how fast this year has flown by...definitely been the best year of my life! This sweet angel face says it all....Happy Birthday Sweet Boy! Your momma loves you with all her heart!! xoxo

Things I love...

2009-09-09T23:24:00.002-04:00

about my son...there are so many!

his infectious laugh!

his ability to make everything wrong in my life melt away with one look...and those eyelashes.

his love for his daddy.

the way he picks up his food and puts it is in mouth...super cute! {can't describe it}

how sucks on his paci when he is really tired.

how he immediately lights up when he sees Capt or Gigi.

his super cute grunting noises he makes...he will wait to see if you will do it with him and then it never stops...or either he will start laughing!

how happy is his 99.9% of the time...I am so blessed!

his snaggle tooth grin.

his toes...oh his toes!

his one auburn curl that sometimes looks like a rat tail. Oh my! ;)

how he lifts one leg up when he is standing up reaching for the TV or his books.

his love of food.

how happy and content he is in the morning.

seeing him sleeping on his side or tummy...breathing sweetly. Makes me want to crawl in the crib with him!

....and most of all...his sweet kisses...and my new favorite that he started doing yesterday...a hug!

Eli's Likes and Dislikes

2009-09-08T14:41:00.003-04:00

This post may be boring to most...but I really just want to document it for me and for him. This week is all about him! :)

Likes:

Taking a bath or a shower - especially if you pour water over his head or he will go under and blow bubbles

Being outside watching things

Finding airplanes or helicopters in the sky

His paci and blanket at nap or bed time

Elmo

When Daddy comes home from work - he is becoming such a Daddy's boy

Mommy's laptop or Blackberry

Any kind of food but I would say Goldfish, tomatoes, yogurt and cheese are his favorites right now

His sippy cups filled with water {no juice}

Drinking ice water out of our glasses

His new fave: taking a drink of water and gurgling or just opening his mouth and letting it all fall out. Results in a VERY wet baby!

Dislikes:

Being told no - playing w/ laptop, pulling books down off shelf, playing in dog's water bowl, etc
Getting his pajamas on at night after his bath

When the food on this tray is gone - he pitches a fit - you have to be fast.
Driving in the car for long periods of time.

Wiping his face after he eats - absolutely hates it!

Party Week

2009-09-07T21:32:00.003-04:00

This is it...the big week! Eli will be one on Sunday and we are having his first birthday party that afternoon. Since I am slightly obsessed with parties...and even more INVITATIONS!! I searched and searched for the perfect invite for lil' man's party...here it is! {theme of party is bright multi colors with balloons, polka dots and stripes}

Almost One...

2009-09-03T22:52:00.002-04:00

Where has the past year gone? My lil' man is almost one...only 10 days left. I am going to try and fill the next week up with posts all about him and how incredibly awesome he is! (only a mother's love right?) :)

We are heading off to the race this weekend...with lil' man in tow! Wow, we may be crazy but we will see. We are going down tomorrow in the big ole motor home. Lee's little brother is coming up from Southern to hang out with us all weekend. My good friend, Susan, who I used to teach with is coming...my oh my it is going to be fun! I am sure I will have plenty of pictures to share. Hope you all have a wonderful Labor Day weekend!!

xoxo D

Prayer Needed

2009-08-03T11:13:00.004-04:00

Please be praying for this sweet family....dear friend to me who is going through a devastating custody battle with her ex husband. They need constant prayer during the next couple days and weeks...will you join me in praying?

Coming Back

2009-07-24T15:23:00.007-04:00

I am gathering all the happenings from the past 3 months...kinda overwhelming....but I am back! :) Here is a little snapshot of lil' man...much more to come!

Publix Deals

2009-04-13T22:09:00.002-04:00

I am not going to blog each week about what deals I have found at Publix or Kroger but I thought I would give you updates on how I am doing...plus, it will hold be accountable to keep doing it no matter how much extra time it takes. (not that much really!)

I am in love with Publix's BOGO (buy one get one free). I stock up on items each week and when I have a coupon on top of that...OMG! :) This is what I found today:

$.01 Item was Publix Bleach - you just can't beat it!

BOGO: Cheerios (all the kinds - I got plain ones for me and Frosted ones for Lee)

Kellogg cereals (got Raisin Bran and Corn Flakes - plus I had a $1.00 coupon)

Kashi Chewy Granola Bars

Ruffle Potato Chips

Hunts Can Tomatoes

Muellers Pasta

Chocolate Chip Cookies

BBQ Sauce/Marinade

Arnolds Bread

Sargento Cheese

I got some great produce (bananas, blueberries, asparagus, green leaf lettuce) and some other things that we needed. The great thing about Publix (besides the great customer service and clean store) is that you don't have to buy 2 items to get the BOGO deals. Or you can and just stock up like I normally do. That way, I don't have to buy things every week. I am still loving it and will not go to the store without a coupon now. It is just WAY too easy and darn it...I lvoe saving my family some money! :)

Catch Up and 7 Months

2009-04-13T21:26:00.005-04:00

I know...I know...where in the world have I been? (if you have actually missed me!) haha Things have been kinda crazy around here the past couple months and I haven't really wanted to blog. I remember sitting down with 4 of my college friends this summer and asking them if they read my blog. Susan said yeah we all read about your perfect life.....HUH?? First of all, my life is no where near perfect. Wonderful...yes....perfect...no! My close friend Mary talked about this last week on her blog as well. I usually tend to put the "highlights" of our life...maybe there just hasn't been that many lately. I work on the computer all day so when I get some down time the last thing I want to do is type. BUT I am going to try harder not just for you but for me...I want to record our life...that is why I started this.

So here is my not so perfect life...we are broke...living pay check to pay check...spending only what we have....not putting anything on credit cards but paying a credit card bill...pay cut after pay cut...it just doesn't pay the bills anymore. I really don't know how much further we can go in this economy. I just try to do my part and pray....a lot!! I am still working 4 part time jobs plus taking care of Eli. It is hard. HARD! I am trying to keep my head above water most of the time. My dogs drive my crazy most days (but I love them!) sitting on Eli's quilt on the floor...barking at the UPS guy...running around the neighborhood...shaking their collars. Some days it is just too much! But then I watch a Marley and Me and can't imagine my life without them.

But then...I have this life...I am crazy in love with my husband...have a roof over my head...food on the table...car to drive around...the sweetest baby on the planet...A JOB!...great church...family and friends whom I adore and couldn't live without. So no matter how overwhelming life seems right now my life is good! :)

In other news...my little man is 7 months old today! He is my sunshine...I mean really my sunshine. I know I say this all the time but I never knew I could love someone so much. He is really one of the happiest babies I have been around and I am so thankful. Here is what's going on with him:

Saying "mama" and "baabaa" (we are working on "dada")

Still nursing like a champ (no formula, no bottles)
Eating baby food - his favorites are applesauce, peaches, pears, peas and rice cereal

Sleeping about 11 - 12 hours a night (PRAISE THE LORD!!) - goes to bed around 7:30pm
Sleeps on his stomach or his side and always has something in his hands - blanket, stuffed animal or the rails on the crib

Loves to jump, take a bath, take a shower, water in his face, any kind of live animal, squealing (this is new and kind of annoying!), limes, swinging on the porch swing, being outside, when Daddy comes home from work, his silver rattle, banging his hands on his high chair, playing with his toys on the floor, watching Bob the Builder

Can sit by himself for about 2 - 3 minutes before he falls over - won't be long now!

Still pooting and still stinking! :)
No teeth yet...still waiting.

Wakes up in the morning happy as can be - plays, talks, looks around - you won't even know he is awake he is so quiet.

Loves his paci and I am okay with that! I do not want him to suck his thumb or fingers and so far so good.
Last month he weighed about 15 pounds - think he is probably around 17 pounds now.

Here are some recent pics:

We had a wonderful Easter...will post about that tomorrow. Hopefully, I am back full time...miss you guys!

wee bit o'irish!

2009-03-17T19:44:00.002-04:00

Copeland Savings: Part Three

2009-03-15T23:45:00.005-04:00

Okay...last one for the day! (or rather night since it is almost midnight and I am still up!)

We have been beyond blessed with clothes for Eli and are so thankful. Lee's cousin (Hollie and Mark) had a little boy (Eli too!) a year before and gave us 3 or 4 giant gift bags full of clothes, socks, shoes, etc. Then my friend Angie sent me a box of clothes (15 lbs) from Statesboro from her little boy Griff who was born the year before as well. This (plus my shower gifts) have kept Eli clothed completely for 6 months. We really have not had to buy anything...except for the outfits I had bought him while I was pregnant...which still wasn't a lot.

I was starting to run out of my hand me downs and worried about what I would do for his spring and summer clothes. My cousin Kristin told me about this Consignment Sale in Gwinnett that was supposed to be incredible. Long story short, I ended up going by myself and RACKING UP on some deals. I was very selective....name brand items...no stains....most were new items or rarely worn items. Look at what I got for $65!!

My aunt Danielle is also letting me borrow Sim's clothes from last year...so literally this boy is set for Spring and Summer. HALLELUJAH!!! God surely answers prayers doesn't he? :)

Copeland Savings: Part Two

2009-03-15T23:20:00.005-04:00

Here is my weekly menu for this week:

Breakfast: Waffles w/ Peanut Butter (YUM!), Cereal, Yogurt (w/ Grape Nuts), English Muffins (w/ cheese or honey), Bacon

Lunch: Tomato Soup, Turkey Sandwiches, BLT Sandwiches, Chips

Dinner:

Sunday: Elk Burgers, Mashed Potatoes, Steamed Green Beans (already had this from last week)

Monday: Leftovers from Sunday (great thing about only having 2 people to feed)

Tuesday: Chicken and Vegetable (broccoli, red pepper, carrot, water chestnuts) Stir Fry w/ Rice (had other veggies left over from last week)

Wednesday: Leftovers from Tuesday

Thursday: Spaghetti and Homemade Meatballs (already have meat) w/ Salad (Friends over so no leftovers)

Friday: Mini Pizzas (w/ English Muffins) and Salad (already have pizza toppings)

I also went to Kroger today (it really wasn't that bad going to two grocery stores b/c I knew exactly what I needed and was quick). Here is what I got:

BOGO: Bacon (put one in the freezer)

Sale Items: (using Kroger card) Yogurt (5), Perdue Chicken (GREAT SALE! $2.50), Deli Turkey Meat (.5lb), Wheat Bread, Diced Tomatoes, Cheese Slices

Coupon Items: Baby Food, Butter, Cottonelle TP (one of my best deals - was on sale for $6.99 but I had $2.00 in coupons - 12 pk), DH Cake Mix (FREE!)

Other: Milk, Ginger Ale, Broccoli, Romaine Lettuce

All this for $37.24!! I saved $18.80!!

The savings will get better and better each week as I learn the process and get more coupons in my stash. Remember, check out Leigh Ann's blog and she will teach the you the process. Let me know if you have any questions!! I hope everyone starts saving! :)

Copeland Savings: Part One

2009-03-15T19:37:00.006-04:00

I am a girl on a mission!! Watch out...here I come! haha

Our finances have taken a beating this year with me getting laid off and losing our great insurance coverage (WHEN I WAS ON MATERNITY LEAVE!!), the pay cuts from Lee's company and the addition of little man. Lee is working extra side jobs and I have taken on a couple extra side jobs...but I still thought we could do more to help with our budget. I have read some blogs and done some (mini) research on cutting coupons...but was terrified! I was scared of not doing it right and then getting to the register and having the cashier glare at me for wasting her time. One of my friends from high school, Leigh Ann, is a pro at this and started a blog giving all of us "first timers" tips and advice. You should check out her blog Half Baked - it really tells you what to do step by step.

I followed her directions and got my Sunday paper early on Saturday afternoon. I thought it would take me forever but it wasn't that bad. I don't have a 3 ring binder yet and clear sleeves to put all my coupons in so I just took 2 ziplock bags and labeled them "FOOD" and "HOUSEHOLD" - coupons are fine in there for the time being. I knew it would be best for me to start small and focus on 2 stores - Kroger (where I normally shop) and Publix. I planned my menu for the week based on what I already have here and what was on sale at the two stores. I tried to find things that were on sale and then had a coupon for - double savings! I was so excited and boy did I do GREAT on my first trip!

Here is what I got at Publix:

They have select items each week for BOGO (Buy One Get One Free) and alot of those items this week were things that we eat. **NOTE: I refuse to buy things we don't normally eat or like just b/c they are on sale or I have a coupon for. I feel like I will get discouraged and not get the satisfaction I need to continue this process each week.**

BOGO Items: Cheese Its, Honey Nut Cheerios, Lays Chips, Barilla Spaghetti, Bertolli Pasta Sauce, Kraft Dressings/Marinades, Thomas English Muffins

SALE Items: Eggo Waffles, Tomato Soup (4 pack), Viva Papertowels (8 rolls)

COUPON Items: Energeizer Batteries (for Eli's swing!), Gum (FREE!!), Baby Food (8 packs of 2), Ziplock bags

Publix $.01 item of the week: Tortilla Chips

All this for $47.01!!!! I saved $36.21!!!

Also - the great thing is that most of these items will last us a couple weeks so divide that value over two or three weeks and it is even better. Take a look!

Check back for my post on Kroger and my consignment sale finds!

Where Have I Been?

2009-03-15T19:03:00.008-04:00

I know...I know...I have been a really bad blogger lately. Things have been tough around here the past month or so. I am basically working 3 part time jobs and raising Eli full time...plus all the normal stuff like cleaning, laundry, grocery runs, cooking, etc. It has gotten harder to work now that Eli is awake more and wanting to play. He still takes 2 really good naps (2 hours each sometimes 3 - 4 hours on a GREAT day!) but I have WAY too much to do in those couple hours. I have felt overwhelmed. Between training classes, data entry, quotes, client visits, conference calls, wedding planning, taking care of Eli...little else gets done. (maybe that's why I am behind on my laundry?? haha)

We have found a church that we love...Eastridge Community Church. It is about 10 minutes from our house and just what we were looking for. We have been going to the 9am service because that is Eli's nap time and he just sleeps in my arms during the service. We are going to start going to the Wednesday night service this week now that Lee's indoor soccer season is over. Another thing I am excited about is my new Ladies Bible Study group. We meet on Tuesday nights (my GIRL NIGHT!!) and are finishing up the Priscilla Shirer study "He Speaks to Me". We are starting Beth's Moore "Esther" next and I can't wait!

Our 1st Sunday at Church as a family (thanks Jill for taking pictures!!)

Things are still the same with Lee's job....he is the last superintendent left and has been really busy with handling it all. It is slow for them but it is steady and that is all you can hope for in this market. His boss speaks very highly of him and his work...that is the reason he is the last one there. I am so proud of him and how he handles the stress and responsibility. I married a great man. Period. :)

Eli has also been sick for a couple weeks....that is another post. An entire post. Ha!

That is where I have been the past couple weeks. I am going to update a couple more times tonight if I get the chance. I have exciting coupon/savings stories and Eli turned 6 months old on Friday. Check back!

Supper Club

2009-02-25T16:00:00.006-05:00

So Rebekah came up with a great idea to have a Supper Club and our first one was on Valentine's Night. (sorry for the late post) You would never have known that Beka didn't like (I mean, LOVE) Valentine's Day. We all walked in the Vepraskas home and about fell over....it looked like Martha Stewart had literally come in and set up to photograph a Valentine's Dinner Party. I mean she had rented tables, chairs, tableclothes, satin napkins (YES!!)...had cut out hearts and made gorgeous place cards and drink tags...candles and flowers everywhere. It was GORGEOUS! We all sat at one long table and used real china...what grownups we are! It was a night of laughter, friendship and love. The best part was listening to the guys tell how we all met and how they proposed...sweet treat for the night of love! Can't wait till next time...but who's calling Martha to decorate?? :)

5 Months

2009-02-14T10:19:00.000-05:00

Time sure does fly when you are having fun! My sweet little man is 5 months old today and is constantly changing. He is such a joy!! Lee and I really are having the best time with him and are in awe that God blessed us with such a healthly, energetic, wonderful baby boy. I could go on and on about how amazing he is...but I will spare you! haha Here is what's been going on with Eli the past month:

Found his feet and is constantly grabbing them and holding on (am sure it won't be long before they are in his mouth)
Loves to play with toys now - his blue monkey rattle, teething rings, colorful hungry caterpillar, glow worm are his current favorites

He LOVES to jump!! Now he can fit into the jumperoo that you hang from the doorway - it is by far the cutest thing you have ever seen!

He can stand up in his exersaucer and spin around to play with all the toys. His favorite are the ones that spin around and make noise. Thanks J/J for getting him this - it really helps me get things done around the house! :)
He started really loving on blankets when he would see them so we gave him one to hold onto. He loves it! (Thanks Gretchen!) His other current nap time fave is his blabla doll from The Roscoe's. I need to name him! (any suggestions? He is a green monkey)

We have tried rice cereal - he pushes it out of his mouth with his tongue and makes the cutest face. He really doesn't like it yet but I keep trying it every couple days.

He HATES a bottle - little booger is so spoiled because I can nurse him (since I am at home during the day) but he has to learn how to love it again. We didn't have a problem with it when he was younger - would suck it down - but not now. He won't have anything to do with it and will actually throw a temper tantrum. We just don't back down and he will finally drink some of it when he gets hungry enough. (Don't worry - he isn't starving!!)

Still loves to take a bath - he kicks, splashes the water and goes under the water. I was scared of the water when I was little and I don't want that for him. We put him under for the first time when he was 3 weeks old. Now once of his favorite things is to be in the shower with Daddy and go under the spray/water. He is going to start swimming lessons this summer. :)

He hates to be on his tummy and rolling over. Will only do it every now and then. Would much rather be sitting up or standing with help. We laugh b/c his abs must be so worn out - if he is laying down he constantly does sit ups just trying to sit up by himself. Won't be long now!

He is sleeping thru the night now from about 9pm until 8am. He started doing this on his own once he doubled his birthweight.

He weighs about 13.5 lbs and is 25 inches long. Little booger but just as healthy as can be!

Hope everyone has a Happy Valentine's Weekend!! I am going to take some 5 month pictures of Eli this weekend...will post them soon! xoxo

Some of my Favorite Blogs

2009-02-12T16:54:00.001-05:00

Ok...so I have admitted that I am a Blog Stalker...so what? Most of you are and probably won't admit it and if you're not...you need too! I haven't been able to sit down with a good book lately...just not in the mood...but give me 10 blogs to catch up on and that will satisfy me...well, almost. Blog reading doesn't satisfy my sense of smell...something about the smell of a book! Anyway, here are a couple of my favorites:

***Before anyone gets upset that their blog isn't on here - I read all of my girlfriends and family blogs - those don't count b/c I comment on them. These are ones I STALK! And I don't read all of these every day - would never have the time.***

Other Mom's/Parenting Advice/So on:

Big Mama - probably my all time favorite - she is hilarious! Good dose of Texas fun!

Jessica Turner - we were pregnant at the same time - she had Elias a couple months before I had Eli. Very creative and easy to read site! If you like scrapbooking - she's your girl!

Anderson Crew - mother of 3 little ones - great photographer and I LOVE the layout and colors on her blog.

Kelly's Korner - new mom of Harper born this month - she just came home from the NICU. Kelly is just a breath of fresh air!!

NieNie Dialogues - you may of heard of this family on the news or around the Blog world. Stephanie and her husband were in a private plane crash (in August) and suffered serious burns all over their bodies. They are parents to four incredible little ones. She was in a medically induced coma for months and her sister's took the kids and kept up her blog b/c it already had thousands of blog stalkers like me. She is back...starting to keep up the blog again! Amazing story!! (you should definitely read her older posts to read the before/after)

Decorating/Crafty:

Nesting Place - The Nester is known all around the Blog World. She is my all time favorite! Her mistreatments are incredible, cheap and easy! I am making some soon.

Heather Bullard - Simply the most BEAUTIFUL site with tons of great ideas! Love, love, love!

Bless Our Nest - tons of ideas, tons of pictures! (Note: Jill, you gotta check this girl's Halloween decorating collection!! Look at her September archives - tons of cute stuff!)

The Inspired Room - everything on how to make your home beautiful! I save pictures from her site all the time and keep them in my "Home File". She is great!!

A Little of Everything:

The Farm Chicks - such a fun, pretty site! Little bit of decorating, cooking, gifts, etc. I wish I lived near Washington so I could go to their show in June.

Wedding/Event Planning:

Style Me Pretty - just about the BEST there is! Both Melinda and my wedding were featured on here - check them out: Danielle & Lee and Melinda & Cass

Snippet & Ink - beautiful, fun and a ton of great ideas!

All Things Lovely - gorgeous pictures for every color/theme you could ever want! I just scroll thru and look at all the pics.

Blush - little bit of everything! (invitations, beautiful pictures, gift ideas, life)

Photography:

Lisa Russo - Incredible children's and family photographer in the Atlanta area. If I weren't poor - I would take Eli this very minute! She also shows you how to hang groupings (of pics) in your home. Very helpful!

One Love Photo - absolutely STUNNING photos! Makes me want to have another wedding...

Just some of the ones I pray for: (most of these will break your heart but inspire you at the same time!! I will let you just read their stories instead of me telling you about them.)

Gwendolyn Strong

Witt Harris Lupher

Cora Paige (please be praying for her family as she went to be with Jesus this past week)

What are some of your favorite blogs? I would love to check them out.

Trip to Savannah

2009-02-09T09:53:00.007-05:00

We had such a great weekend! Some of our best friends, Jonathan and Jennifer (see earlier post) invited us to travel with them to Savannah to pick up a boat. Jennifer's parents live in Savannah right on the water - amazing place!! J/J (as I call them) were heading there to pick up a boat from her parents and invited us to come along. Cass went as well so it there was a crowd in her parents 2 bedroom condo on the river. They were so gracious - Jennifer is definitely a product of her parents!

Eli was such a dream! He was in the car for about 6 hours both days traveling and was the happiest baby! He loves playing with toys now and played with his monkey rattle for about 3 hours both days. He took great naps and slept really well at night. We strapped him in the Baby Bjorn and walked all over downtown. He just kicked and cooed the entire time. He loved being outside and looking around but I think his most favorite thing (besides Mrs. Dudley) was their exotic fish tank. He would stare at it and just follow the fish around with his eyes. It was super cute!

I really haven't gone anywhere since this summer and I was so stir crazy. I really needed this - hours of girl talk (I was hoarse by the time we got there - haha!), relaxation with my man, and new adventures with Eli. It was fun and peaceful all in one. We hope to go back soon! It was a spur of the moment mini vacation but so worth it!!

Here are some pictures from our trip:

Me, Eli and Uncle Cass on River Street

Eli taking a nap (he has started LOVING a blankie and his blabla)

Eli with Jonathan - they were watching Cass play on the computer

Lee and Cass digging thru the trash in downtown (they came away with some actual treasures!)

All the boys went kayaking

Boys kayaking - this is the view right in front of their condo - you just walk right down to the water. We even saw dolphins right out here. They came right up to the dock and kayaks - it was so cool! We spent about 20 minutes watching them.

Yummy Recipe

2009-01-30T11:27:00.000-05:00

We were craving good Italian food the other night and didn't want our staples that we normally fix. I created a new recipe and thought I would share - very yummy!

Stuffed Shells

1 box stuffed shells, cooked according to package
1 lb organic or lean hamburger meat or you could use rotisserie chicken
1 box organic spinach
1 1/2 jars of Classico Spinach and Cheese Florentine Sauce
1/2 small container of skim ricotta cheese
1 bag Italian Cheese, shredded (or mozzarella, provolone, etc)
Seasonings - Garlic Salt, Pepper, Salt, Basil

Brown the beef with seasonings - drain if needed - saute the spinach in some olive oil - drain - mix together 3/4 beef, 1/2 bag of shredded cheese, ricotta cheese and spinach - add additional seasoning if needed - simmer 1 jar of the sauce with the remaining beef - put 1/2 cup in the bottom of casserole dish - stuff the cooked and drained shells with mixture - arrange in casserole dish - cover with the meat sauce - cover with the remaining 1/2 bag of shredded cheese - bake at 350* with foil on top until bubbly and hot

Cardboard Testimonies

2009-01-28T09:51:00.003-05:00

You may have seen this...it has been floating around for some time...but I just saw it on someone's blog (yes, I am a blog stalker - haha) and wanted to share it. Such a cool thing! Make sure you watch the entire thing...

Photo Tag

2009-01-26T17:31:00.006-05:00

I am going to admit something...I wasn't tagged for this by anyone...just saw it on someone's blog...thought it would be neat to do...so I am tagging myself! haha

Here are the rules:
1. Open your pictures folder.
2. Go to the sixth folder.
3. Open the sixth picture.
4. Import into your blog and tell the story.

What a night! September 30, 2006...we had been married about an hour and were sharing our 1st Dance to Crazy Love by Van Morrison. I remember this moment...I finally had married the man of my dreams and was surrounded by every important person in my life. I was beyond happy...a state of bliss actually. And I love the way you can really only see my eyes in this picture...but it says so much...you can tell I am smiling and really can't stop...and I love that Lee's head is buried in my shoulder. Let me tell you...I LOVE THIS MAN! He still makes my heart swoon...didn't know what picture I was going to come up on while following the rules...so glad it was this one!
I am tagging all of my friends out there...come on...do it for me!! And for yourself...it will take you back to some time in your life that you probably aren't thinking of right at this moment...good, bad, sad, happy...but you will be glad you remembered it!

Cold Weather and Sweatsuits

2009-01-26T15:54:00.007-05:00

It has been COLD lately!! BRR!! Eli is enjoying his first winter here in Georgia...such a cold place...don't know if either of us could make it in Montana even though Lee wants us to move their ASAP! My cousin Justin and Meghan got Eli the cutest navy fleece sweatsuit for Christmas and he wears it all the time. I need one in every color. It is super soft and he loves it! It is perfect for layering which is essential in this weather for a baby. I can easily take off the jacket and pants when it is time for a nap...have to take the pants off so they don't get all bunchy in the swaddle...talk about uncomfortable! Lee has been sick for the past couple days so we went and stayed with my parents for a while (trying not to get sick) and Gigi cracked the whip...had to exercise so we bundled up and went for a walk one night. Eli was so snug in his little outfit with a hat underneath to shield his ears. Anyway, I know this is a complete random post but I think he looks absolutely precious in his big boy sweatsuit...had to post some pics of my little man!

I Am Second

2009-01-14T13:53:00.003-05:00

Please take some time today to view this site...it is amazing and inspiring! I proudly proclaim that I am second....are you? Jason Castro's message is really good...probably my favorite.

I Am Second

Four Months...

2009-01-13T21:53:00.004-05:00

Can you believe it? I am in shock...how did this happen? :)

Today my sweet boy is 4 months old and I have a mixture of emotions. I love watching him grow and change each day but it also makes me sad that he is getting older. Some people are terrified of newborns...I adored him being so tiny and helpless...but then again I love how interactive he is now! These past 4 months have been the best in my life...I am so blessed!

Here are some of my favorite things about Eli at 4 months:

When he wakes up in the morning, he immediately smiles at you and starts kicking his legs as much as he can in his swaddle blanket.

His stretches...oh my! So cute!!

His love for bath time...he loves the red bottle of shampoo I have in there and the green frog on the wall that holds his toys...he smiles at both and talks to them.

When he looks at me and makes little cooing noises when he is tired and getting ready for bed.

He gets so excited when Lee gets home...he watches his every move!

He loves to look at the dogs and has even reached for them. (they were great!)

His love (and mine) for nursing...I am so lucky that he enjoys it!

He loves getting his diaper changed on the changing table...he laughs and kicks and squeals...doesn't happen if you change his diaper on the bed or somewhere else??

How he grabs for his toys now and smiles at them.

When riding in the car he looks out the window and at himself in the mirror.

His sweet cheeks...especially at the end of a yawn or while he is nursing.

His fuzzy hair...like a little chick. (mmmm...)

His love for his Glow Worm...HE LOVES IT! (Thanks Uncle Luke and Aunt Missy)

How he laughs at everything now...

Super cute when he is standing on your lap and buckles his knees so he can jump. He loves to jump!

Bascially, I love everything...he is a very content, happy baby. The only time he gets fussy is when he is hungry or if you are late getting him to bed. He is a great napper (2 naps a day - one is 4 hours!!) and falls asleep on his on at night and sleeps for about 8 hours straight and then another 3 hours after he nurses. Lee and I are constantly amazed by our love for this child...we just had no idea your heart could love like this! I can't wait to see what the next 4 months bring!

Pink Pig and Santa

2008-12-30T11:49:00.004-05:00

I am going to try and get all caught up on Christmas and the fun stuff we did...it may take a couple days! Last Tuesday, we headed up to Lenox Mall with my mom, Auntie Melin and my cousin, Kelli to ride the infamous Pink Pig and to see Santa. We try and do a girls day every year and really enjoy it! My mom and dad both rode the Pink Pig as a child...Cass and I rode it every year as children...and it is very important for me to pass that tradition down to Eli. Of course, he slept thru the entire thing! haha We had to stand in line for about 2 hours which he was awake for...then he fell asleep as we walking in. Oh well! It is such an iconic thing to do in Atlanta even at our age! I mean who minds squeezing their booties in that small seat...which by the way none of us could do...we were basically sitting on top of each other! It is a small roller coaster of a ride...with no rolls in it! You go around twice and look at all the pepto bismol pink stuff...but boy oh boy is it fun! They wouldn't let Eli on the ride unless he was strapped in his carseat...don't really understand that since I had to put him in a seat by himself and he really wasn't properly restrained. He would have been a lot safer with me holding him but that was the rule. It was fun...we laughed until we cried...then we ended the experience by purchasing our annual Pink Pig ornament and plush pig noses! (The great thing about going so late in the season is all the ornaments are 1/2 off!!)

After our 3 hours Pink Pig experience we headed to Corner Cafe to have some yummy lunch. Uncle Jeff and my cousin Lauren met us there to have lunch and catch up a bit since we missed seeing her at the Moore Family Christmas. After some great sandwiches and soups (to warm us up!) we headed to do some shopping....well, Ginny shopped while I slipped into the lingerie dept dressing room and nursed Eli. If walls could talk! Melin and I quickly headed to Sephora after that...she and I both could spend hours in there...of course she knows what everything is in there and which stuff to buy...me, I just look at everything and wonder how anyone could spend $117 on moisturizer??

Then we were off to see Santa...the line was short and Eli was awake! I didn't have him dressed up in anything Christmasy but he looked like a little man...at least that is what everyone in line said. He didn't cry...he didn't smile...he didn't acknowledge Santa at all. He just sat right on his lap and looked at the camera like...COME ON MOM! Take the picture and let's go home! Here are some photos of our day...can't wait for next Christmas and our annual girls trip (w/ Eli) to Lenox!

Sad Day

2008-12-26T22:33:00.007-05:00

***UPDATE*** Here is what Geoff told us today:

They discovered that Anna had an unusally small spleen. The spleen is an organ in the upper left side of the abdomen that filters the blood by removing old or damaged blood cells and platelets and helps the immune system by destroying bacteria and other foreign substances. Because her spleen was so "tiny" it could not destroy whatever bacteria that she came into contact with. While it will be possible for them to discover what bacteria it was, we will more than likely never know where she came into contact with it. We should know the type of bacteria in a few days. Anna's cause of death was a bacterial infection. There was no way to know that about her spleen. There was no way for her to avoid bacteria. We all come into contact with it every day. This was her time, and I am comforted to have this information. God was ready for Anna. I guess, like the poem that an old friend sent me, God was in need for some younger prettier Angels. He sure got a good one. We will miss her greatly.

Please pray for our good friend and my mom's business partner, Geoff. His 11 year old daughter, Anna died this morning. We don't know exactly what the cause was because it happened so fast. She ran a high fever last night and was vomiting and by the time they got to the doctor this morning things were progressing very fast and getting extremely serious. This family is not only in shock of losing their precious daughter but also because they don't understand what happened. Geoff loved his girls like any other father...but they were also his life! He drove them to and from school almost every day - was at every event - took them shopping - and spent such quality time with them. He ADORES his girls...they were his love and his joy! Please remember this family over the next couple days, weeks and months. Geoff is a strong Christian and so was Anna...he is receiving the peace that she is in heaven healthy and happy. Please remember Anna's mother (Elizabeth) and sister (Kristen) as they are really struggling...as you can only imagine. Thank you for remembering this family in your thoughts and prayers!

Geoff with my parents in Montana

Sweet girl

Happenings...

2008-12-22T21:59:00.005-05:00

I finally got some pictures downloaded so hello long post of pictures...haha! We went to a wedding of some good family friends the weekend after Thanksgiving. It was wonderful! Such a fun crowd - plus Susan kept Eli for us so we had a date night!! Thanks to Melin for letting me borrow her ultra classy black dress so I didn't have to buy yet another wedding dress. The first weekend of December, Cass came over and we went to Downtown Covington's Christmas Parade. Very cold and kinda boring (don't tell anyone!!) we headed to the local ice cream/coffee shop to get some warm beverages and then headed home. We at least got some cute pictures of Eli is his cute blue snow suit. (Thanks to Alexis!) Then on Sunday we headed to my parents for the Colbert Family Christmas. (my mom's side) Dad cooked an unbelievable ham and the side dishes were AMAZING! No casseroles for this party - we like veggies - butternut squash, fried okra (OMG!), roasted asparagus, steamed brussel sprouts, green beans, cranberry/butternut squash rice medly. We did throw some mac n cheese in there and some of Glo's homemade biscuits - YUM! But then the desserts rolled out - it was ridiculous! AND everything was homemade...Kelli's Chocolate Eclairs (she even made the pastry puff), Cranberry Upside Down Cake, Strawberry Cheesecake, Pumpkin Chiffon Pie (my favorite) and Pecan Pie. I honestly think I gained 10lbs while there...or at least after I ate my 2nd ham sandwich today! :)

Our Date Night

Us with Lee's brother, Joey and his girl Chrissy

The Copeland side of family - Lou, Kim, Joey, Bobby and us

Me and Eli at the Parade - brrr!!!

Uncle Cass lovin' on Eli

Colbert Family minus a couple people - Mom wasn't feeling well and Lee was taking the pictures.

Love these people!

OMG! Are they ready or what?? (Hint Hint!! Make me an AUNTIE!)

Me and my dad making Eli laugh - one of my favorite moments!

HeHe!! LauraLee and Brock gave us this onesie - so perfect for Lee! I had to take a picture since he looked so cute and was sitting in Lee's lap with camo on. Such a redneck boy! :)

Moore Family Christmas

2008-12-15T14:03:00.008-05:00

Saturday we had our Moore Family Christmas and what fun it was!! My baby cousin, Chad, who is now a tall 17 was our baby for the longest time...then Josie came along 2 years ago and this year...we added a whopping 3 babies to the mix!! WOW! We had the best time all sitting around watching the kids open gifts...well, Eli slept thru most of it as he is still itty bitty and doesn't play with much yet. Josie had such fun and looked super cute in her pink glittery boa! Sim and Millie were sitting up and playing with everything they could get their hands on. Food was incredible as always...the family favorite always being Mema's Mac-n-Cheese! We missed Lauren, Meghan, Jason, Jenn and Amelia but hopefully next year everyone will be there. Here are some photos from the day...hope you enjoy!! Coming up next...Colbert Family Christmas on Sunday!

The Moore - Copeland Family 2008

The Copelands - Eli, 3 months

Cass and Melinda

The four boys - Dan, Doug, Jeff and Ken

Another picture of Dad laughing with Eli - two peas in a pod!

Lee drawing with Josie - he loves doing this!

Ken, Elaine and Chad Moore

Uncle Jeff playing with Sim

Justin, Millie and Kristin

The Bentons

Josie and the two Danielle's - DeeDee and Andelle

Cousin Kristin clipping Eli's fingernails for the 1st time - I am scared to do it!! She was the pro and Eli just sat there and sucked on her hand - completely oblivious to the clippers! :)

DeeDee with Eli - look at those lips!

Millie and Sim playing with their new toys.

Too stinkin' cute! Sim likes to kiss everybody!!

Sisters

All the little ones...Sim (11 months), Josie (2 1/2 yr), Eli (3 months), and Millie (8 1/2 months)

Mommy's Little Turkey

2008-12-02T15:49:00.015-05:00

Eli had a wonderful 1st Thanksgiving! We take turns every year with our families and this year we were with Lee's family. Since his little brother had been sick with a stomach bug we didn't chance going by his dad and stepmom's on Thursday. We spent the day with his mom, brothers, grandmother and his aunt/uncle/cousins who were here from Louisiana and Tennessee. We had a great time!

One of my best friends, Nicole, was here as well and we got to see her twice which was wonderful! She lives in Jackson Hole, WY so we only get to see her once or twice a year. Last time she saw me I was only 17 weeks pregnant with barely a belly. She missed the whole big belly, swollen feet, whiny stage - haha! It was great to see her with Eli - they were both in love I think. AND she brought him back the cutest little moccasins you have ever seen!

On Friday, we went and had lunch with my grandparents, my uncle Jeff and my cousin Lauren. Lauren is in school at College of Charleston so she had not met Eli yet. He loved her! He was all smiles...except for the occasional gas issue! haha It is crazy for me to see Lauren holding him - I used to hold her and play with her when she was a baby and it just doesn't seem right for her to be old enough (or me to be old enough to have a baby) to be in college and on her own. It was a great visit!

We had dinner with my parents on Friday night since my dad finally made it back from Montana. He had been gone for two weeks hunting - he killed a whitetail deer and a big ole elk! We had the most fantastic elk burgers - they were yummy!!! (best thing I have EVER put in my mouth and so good for you - much leaner than beef or deer)

There must have been something in the air because my dad and I both woke up Saturday with a cold. UGH! I stayed in bed all day on Saturday and on Sunday...just miserable and tired of sneezing and blowing my nose. I am trying my best not to get Eli sick...I know it is inevitable that he will catch a cold but I am holding out for as long as I can. Since I was sick, Lee took Eli to his dad's for a couple hours to see everyone since we missed them on Thursday. I hear that Papa Lou never put Eli down! So cute! Lee also killed a deer on Sunday night - he was so excited! Cass and Melin have been wanting a freezer full of deer meat so this one was for them. I wanted to get a picture of Eli with Lee and the deer...Eli was NOT happy about having his hat on...he has recently started this. He looks so super cute in them (see picture below too) but he usually cries until I pull it off. He better get used to it...they aren't going anywhere at this point since it is so cold outside. (mean mommy!)

Anyway, we had a wonderful Thanksgiving holiday and hope everyone else did as well. We have so much to be thankful for in our lives....our health, our children, our families and our friends. Love you all!

my stinkpot turtle...

2008-11-23T22:37:00.004-05:00

When Eli was born Lee started calling him a stinkpot turtle...cute name but what really is a stinkpot turtle??

The stinkpot turtle is certainly properly named, and if you ever have a close up encounter with one you will find this out rather quickly. The yellow like solution they secrete is so foul smelling it is likely to induce nausea in a person that is not blessed with a strong stomach.

Well, if you have been around Eli you will know that the boy has some gas and LOVES to poot!! Now they don't really smell but the nickname and the poots go hand in hand....I mean, look at this cute face...he does look like a little stinkpot doesn't he? And lucky me...He is MY stinkpot!

Two Month Pictures

2008-11-20T16:17:00.005-05:00

Here are some pictures I took on Eli's Two Month Birthday - hope you enjoy!

Happy Birthday Mema!

2008-11-13T19:31:00.019-05:00

**I did 3 posts tonight - make sure you read all of them!!**

Sunday was my grandmother's birthday - what a grand day! The family got together at my parent's house to celebrate her and then went to church with her that evening. She was so happy! Here are some pictures....

Martha Ellen - our rock!

Josie telling Mema all about the deer in the backyard

Uncle Cass and Auntie Melin with Eli

Me and Josie singing Happy Birdle Daydle to Mema! (our secret family song - Josie couldn't get enough of it - haha!!)

Eli with his great-grandmother Martha Ellen - one lucky boy!!

Uncle Ken - the quiet one of the bunch! Rare in this family!! (her 4th boy - yes, she had her hands full with 4 boys!)

Uncle Doug with Mema (her 2nd boy)

Dad with his favorite new little guy! They ADORE each other!! (dad is her 1st boy)

Grandpa Bob and the Queen of our family

Simpson trying to get Eli to play with him.

Mema with Uncle Jeff (her 3rd boy)

Thanksgiving with Friends

2008-11-13T18:55:00.007-05:00

For the past three years we have celebrated one of my favorite holidays with our closest friends. Saturday night was our 3rd Annual Thanksgiving with Friends - what a fun night! The first year we tried cooking the entire turkey/dressing dinner but it was too much and we ended up worrying more about the food than enjoying each other. The last two years we have done stews and soups with cornbread and rolls. YUM! We had Veggie Beef Soup, Creamy Potato Soup, and Mexican Tortilla Soup - all were so good! Cornbread and jalapeno corn muffins were our sides and then came the Better Than Sex Mousse and homemade cookies w/ vanilla ice cream. We had some good food!! Lee built a fire out in our chimnea and everyone huddled around and had a great time. My favorite time was when the whole group (minus 2 couples who shall remain nameless!!) played Catch Phrase. We sat boy girl and played Boys against Girls - you would have thought we girls could beat the boys - but NO! they beat us by a point. Some were quite obnoxious about the entire game....LEE...CHAD...no names though! :) All in all, we had a fantastic time and missed those who couldn't be there.

Some of the girls - Me, Mary, Amy and Melin

The boys after their win - Lee is impersonating Eli! He makes this face when he is being rotten - one of our favorite things! Not so cute on Lee though. haha!

Kate, Tommy, Brooke and Grant having fun!

TROUBLE!! These two were mess pots all night!

Here are some photos of how I decorated the house - on a budget but tried to capture the fall season!I usually hang my Christmas cards on these ribbons in my kitchen. Originally, I was going to hang up pictures of each couple with us but I don't have all of them printed out (all on my computer). So what I ended up doing was writing a little "thankful" note for each couple and attaching with a mini clothspin and adding a colorful leaf from our yard. Turned out cute!

This was our dessert table - added a ribbon and some cedar to my pig menu holder. We have a ton of our wedding napkins left over - chocolate brown w/ our name on them. Perfect to use for dessert at parties!!

We were using paper bowls and plates to save on clean up so I decided to dress up the silverware. I wrapped each silver spoon in a napkin (white or brown) and then tied it with a coordinating ribbon (brown or green). Perfect!!

Our fireplace in the den - went to my mom's house early in the day and got some greenery from her yard. Used cedar branches, pinecones and mini pumpkins for the mantle. I always have a ton of pinecones to use during the holidays - did a whole arrangement (w/ votive candles) in the actual fireplace. Add the pumpkin that Kim and Lou got us last year and the look was complete!

Two Months Old

2008-11-13T15:12:00.008-05:00

Can you believe it has been two months already?? Lee and I can't believe it! We woke up early this morning and sang Happy Birdle Daydle (it's our family thing) to Eli and he just smiled and cooed. It was an incredible morning! We had his 2 month check up with Dr. Doud (the local favorite) at 11am and he got such a good report. He is 9lb 8.5oz so has gained 2 1/2 lbs since he was born and was 22.5in long which means he grew a whopping 3 inches in 2 months! That totally explains why his feet don't fit into newborn socks and his legs hang out of his clothes! haha Dr. Doud was very pleased with his growth and proud that we are still breast feeding. He got his eyes, ears, nose, mouth, head, hips, legs, heart and so much more checked out...he was prodded all over the place! Dr. Doud was really pleased with his alertness, his ability to focus on things across the room, how he was holding his head up and the fact that he is applying pressure when you stand him up. He is going to be a strong little boy I think! (long and lean like his daddy!) We are so thrilled with his progress - these past two months have been the best of our lives! Here are some updates on what Eli (and us) are doing:

Every morning Lee unwraps him around 7am when he wakes up - he has been in the swaddle so he likes to stretch and pass some gas...well, a lot of gas! When he is all done pooting he smiles the biggest smile and is ready to play!

He found his hands last week and sucks on them all the time. You can hear him in the next room - hasn't figured out yet that his thumb could go in there. He still likes his paci though.

Coos and makes all kind of noises when you are talking to him or during tummy time.

Loves to smile - right now, I think my dad can make him smile more than anyone. (well, I think I may be a close second - the boy does love his momma!!)

Loves to take a bath and really loves for you to let him swim a bit. (we hold his head and let his body float in the tub - he smiles and kicks his legs - cutest thing!)

He takes 2 long naps - one in the morning for about 3 hours and then another one in the afternoon for 2 to 3 hours. So great for me to work during these hours and then I can spend time with him when he is awake.

Bedtime for him right now is 9pm (after his feeding and bath) and he sleeps until about 7am. He back and forth right now on sleeping thru the night - if he wakes up it is at 3am or 3:30am - he eats and then is right back down. I am not pushing getting him to sleep thru the night until he is around 10lbs. Usually 2 or 3 nights a week he sleeps all night so I know he is close.

He still loves his swing, being outside, riding in the car, being read too, having tummy time and being with people who make him smile.

He is very content now - no more crying for long stretches at night. (two weeks of hell!)

He is really laid back - nothing upsets him - can sleep thru any noise or loud party (like last Saturday night!).

He loves Winston and Roscoe and they are warming up to him. Roscoe will actually go and drop his ball in front of Eli's swing when he is swinging as to say "Come on - throw the ball!" It is really, really cute!

I will post some new pics soon - gotta get them downloaded off of my parent's camera - check back soon!

Boo!

2008-11-04T08:24:00.003-05:00

Little late...but here is Eli on his first Halloween...little sweet ghost! We didn't do much since we were out searching for our pups (will blog about that later) but he did wear his ghost outfit and pose for some cute pictures!!

Happy Birthday Melin!!

2008-11-03T12:27:00.005-05:00

Happy, happy birthday to my sister...my best friend...my soul mate. God brought her into my life...my brother made her my sister. I am truly blessed! We went to the same high school a year apart....never friends because of other loyalties to friends and boys that came between us all. I moved back to Conyers in 2003 from Perry and she from Cali...both living at home with our parents after years of our freedom and own places. With a couple friends a book club was started and after one book...the book club was over but a friendship between the two of us was blossoming! She was my girly, girl friend who introduced me to Alias and Lord of the Rings...I introduced her to Young Adult novels. We shared a love of any kind of book, girly movies, tiaras, eyeliner (or really any kind of makeup!) and so much more. We had best friends who were twins...and finally felt like we had found our twin. She met my brother in the Fall of 2004 and the rest was history...what a love story! (that is for her to tell) I am forever grateful to Mary and Beka for jumpstarting a friendship that would later turn into a lifetime of sisterhood!

Melin, I love you and hope your birthday is a TREMENDOUS one! xoxo

One of my most favorite moments...the day she became my sister!

My most favorite moment...when Eli made her an Auntie!!

Why not?

2008-10-30T21:23:00.004-04:00

Lee does not like this picture nor does he like for me to do this...but I think it is hysterical!! As Beka told me the other day...I am a in your face lover to my child...always in his face loving on him! I kiss him a million times a day and smell him...ooh! it is wonderful! Sometimes when I am doing this and little man is hungry...well, he finds my nose and starts to suck on the tip of it! :) I mean it isn't like he is attached to the nostril and sucking things out...that would just be gross! So tell me what you think...cute or gross?

Friends and Family...

2008-10-30T11:02:00.016-04:00

I am going to be a busy girl today I think...have a lot of pictures to download and a couple posts to do. Make sure you read them all! haha

A couple weeks ago Shannon, Mary and their girls (minus Audrey who was in school) came by to visit me and Eli. What fun!! Sloane and Anna Kathryn played in Eli's nursery with all the baby toys while us grown up girls oohed and ahhed over Eli and caught up. Anna Kathryn wanted to hold Eli over and over...she was such a little mommy! I took the girls outside for a quick photo op but they wanted to hold hands and hop in the grass more than pose. :)

This past week we went to Doug and Danielle's house to see Josie and baby Sim. Josie was so cute holding him - just look at those curls!! Sim wanted to kiss him and kiss him some more - PRECIOUS!! I can't wait to watch these guys all grow up together. Eli and Sim are only 9 months apart so I am sure they will be best of buds!

We also spent some time with my mom's family in early October for my Aunt Dorie's birthday. Eli loved his aunties and great grandparents!!!

Here are some pictures (last ones for this post I promise!!) from last night at my parents house. Eli is 6 1/2 weeks old and finally fitting into his newborn clothes (thanks Sim for letting me borrow you ultra cute outfit!). Dad aka Capt and Mom aka Gigi just can't get enough of Eli...like any of us can? :)

Dad is making "pooting" noises with his mouth and Eli was POOTING for real! Look at his eyes in the picture - so cute! We were laughing so hard!! (the boy definitely has some gas issues)

Weekend Fun

2008-10-29T22:13:00.010-04:00

I know I have been so slack on blogging lately...but it is hard to find the time right now to sit down and pick out the pictures and think about what to type. I am going to post a couple posts in the next day so check out what has been going on in our life!!

This past weekend was very busy...but so fun! My cousin, Jason came to stay with us on his way back from Florida...he lives in Boston with his daughter, Amelia. His girlfriend, Jen, came with them and we had a great visit! Amelia was IN LOVE with the dogs...they were so sad to see her leave since she is the ONLY person in 6 weeks to pay them any attention. haha! We all had dinner at my parents house and went to my grandmother's church to walk thru Judgement House. We slept in late and caught up over bagels and coffee. Jason couldn't get enough of Eli and held him and loved on him the entire time. We enjoyed you guys so much! Come back anytime!!

Then Friday night we had Jason and Michelle's rehearsal dinner in Atlanta at Coco Loco which is the BEST Cuban food in Atlanta! I had never had Cuban food (and we know how picky I am with food) and I ate every morsel...so yummy! YOU MUST GO!! Eli went with us to the rehearsal and then the rehearsal dinner. He did so good...slept the entire time...except the last 15 minutes. Everyone enjoyed seeing him!

Me and Eli at Coco Loco

Saturday was a DAY! Eli didn't sleep very well on Friday night so I was exhausted on Saturday. I had to get up early and head to the mall since none of my dresses fit...nor my shoes! I know, I know...I should have figured that out before the day of the wedding but I just thought it would all work. IT DIDN'T!! My lovelies don't fit into any dresses or tops really...you don't realize how big they are when all you wear are tee shirts and tank tops. I tried on every dress...NOTHING fit! So I knew I had to get a dress....but was hoping that my black satin peep toe heels (that I am IN LOVE with) would fit since I am slowly shrinking...but NO! none of my shoes fit except for boots, tennis shoes and flip flops. Needless to say, I ran to Macy's for an hour and luckily found a dress and some heels...all on sale!

Me and Lee at the wedding - he was a groomsman!

Me and Jennifer - Love that girl!!

Leebo, Shannon, Me and Justin - Shannon is Jason's sister and growing up she and Lee always said they would get married. Justin and I messed that plan up evidently! You should see the two of them dance - INCREDIBLE!

The wedding was great...so fun to see everyone! It was a wonderful event...best friends were there...dancing...good food...more dancing...it was fun! Now...you ask where was Eli? Yes, we had a date night because Beka and David were so gracious to keep Eli for us. I dropped him off around 5pm and we didn't get to their house until after 1am. In her sweet voice, Beka said "He was easy...I twirled him in my fingers all night". He was happy...she was happy...we were happy...what more could you ask for?? Much love to Beka and Dave for keeping our little man!!

Eli relaxing in Daddy's arm at Beka and Dave's house - boy, was that bed comfy!!

One Month

2008-10-13T19:27:00.005-04:00

Wow....time sure flies! I cannot believe that Eli is a month old today. It just doesn't seem like that could be possible! He is such a joy...so in love with him and this life that God has graciously blessed me with. Here are some of our favorite moments with Eli and his milestones so far:

We go for a walk almost every day - he loves being outside! He can be fussy and you can just walk outside and stand in our driveway - the boy will stop crying and look all around.

Cap (aka Dan) comes to see Eli almost every 2 days - he is so cute! They are both in love with each other and it is the neatest thing to watch.

Roscoe and Winston are still adjusting - Roscoe has given in and likes Eli now - will lick his hand or foot every now and then. AND if you aren't watching Roscoe will curl up in the Boppy - it is his favorite thing! Winston is still fighting the good fight - he thinks he is still "Top Dog" around these parts. (poor guy!)

Eli loves bath time except when you get him out - he HATES being cold! (and that includes wiping his bootie with a cold wipe - watch out!)

He is now starting to fit into some 0 - 3 month clothes - BARELY! I did have to buy him some Preemie pants so that he could continue to wear his tiny little onesies in this chilly weather.

He loves sleeping in his co-sleeper (thanks Mary!) but would rather nap in his swing or of course...on you!

He nurses like a champ now -- and mommy could supply an entire hospital ward of babies with milk. haha!!

He is only waking up once during the night for a feeding which has been nice. I am not forcing him to go all night yet...he breaks my heart when he cries!

We took him to his first Heritage football game - he slept right thru the entire thing!

He had his first night out on the town on Saturday - we went to Jenny and Mack's wedding. It was so beautiful and Eli enjoyed looking at all the twinkly lights. He was the hit of the party!

He went to his first soccer game (Lee is playing ADASL - 1st Division) yesterday. Daddy's team won and Eli was super excited!

He is so strong - he is holding his head up, turning it from side to side, and can push off with his legs - actually holds himself up!

Waking up is my most favorite time with Eli - I start undoing his swaddle and he starts stretching and making the CUTEST faces ever! He is like a little old man - scrunches his forehead up and purses his lips. I want to eat him up!

There are so many more....I could go on and on but that would bore you and probably embarrass poor Eli! (think I will be THAT mom!) Anyways, life is awesome...we are loving our boy and each other. It couldn't get any better than this! Here are some recent pics...enjoy!

2 Years and 2 Weeks

2008-10-02T23:07:00.003-04:00

Here is our little family...married for 2 years and Eli 2 weeks old!

I won!!!

2008-10-02T14:41:00.003-04:00

I really NEVER do win anything...maybe things are turning around for me! :) I am a daily stalker of Jessica Turner's blog...she is a new mom to Elias (So cute!), scrapbooking queen and is very honest and funny about her "real" life. I love it! She was given 25 mini albums to hand out to people like me who wanted to document their "life as it is right now"...and all I had to do was leave a comment. Out of the hundreds...I was one of the ones chosen! WOOHOO!! So, I am patiently waiting on my mini album so I can get started. Check out her blog to see the one she just created...super cute! Thanks Jessica!!

Favorite Things

2008-10-01T14:15:00.003-04:00

So...Mary has inspired us all to make a list of our favorite things. Melin did it too....check them out! Here are some of mine: (no particular order)

Eli's sweet smell when he is sleeping
Fall weather...isn't it divine?
Yummy mashed potatoes...creamy yet some lumps
Lee's hands and arms
Clean sheets right out of the dryer
Reading a good book....outside, in the bed, on the couch, anywhere!
Falling asleep with a book...can you tell I like to read?
Swinging...wish I had a new playset! :)
Cooking dinner for my family
Laughing with my girlfriends
Hearing my brother's voice
Baby kicks in the belly...already miss it!
Eli's little noises when he is sleeping
My mother's smell and touch of her hand
Hearing my dad laugh
Lee's kisses on my head
My brother's bear hugs
Memories with my great grandmother - Helen Allnoch Daniel (my namesake)
Playing paper dolls with my Mema
Walking with my mom
Half sweet half unsweet tea from Chick-fil-a
Crunchy, shaved ice (Zaxby's, Jim and Nicks, Sonic, Piedmont Hospital)
Pedicures....ahh!
Getting my eyebrows waxed
Walking around the square in Covington with my man, the pups and Eli
Listening to praise music
New magazines
Looking out my window at all the trees...changing leaves
Fresh smell of a summer rain
Driving with Lee with the windows down...we like to just cruise around sometimes.
Watching Eli wake up...all his stretches and yawns
A hot bath...wish I had a giant tub!
A clean kitchen and laundry going...love the smell and sound! (what I am listening to now!)
Hearing Lee tell me he loves me
Watching a good movie
Looking forward to something...
My relationship with my family
Winston and Roscoe....still love them! :)
Having dinner with friends
Getting the mail
Sitting at the beach in the late afternoon watching the waves, the sunset and reading a good book
Going on vacation with my husband
My backyard
The blessing of my child...the love of my husband!

What are your favorite things? I would love to hear.

Happy Anniversary...

2008-09-30T11:12:00.007-04:00

Today is our 2nd Wedding Anniversary...gosh, time flies! I can't believe it has been two years since we spent the day at Fair Weather Farms with all of our friends and family. That day was such a magical one and a day that I will never forget. I waited and waited on finding the right man...and boy did I find him! Not only is he the best husband ever (yes, Ever!) but he is my best friend...the one I go to first in joy and pain. I never imagined this type of relationship...I am so blessed! Now as I look at our son...born just two weeks ago...I am in awe of our love! We have fallen in love with this amazing child and even more in love with each other. I feel like such a family now...and don't think I could be any happier! There are many, many things that I love about Lee Copeland but here are some of my favorites.

He is calm...such a calming force in the emotional storm of Danielle. (haha!) He loves my family unconditionally and wholly. He still opens my car door every time we go somewhere. He double checks everything when we leave...iron unplugged, doors locked, etc. (annoying but cute!) He stands up for me whether with work, friends or family. He changes dirty diapers without complaining. He cleans...he cleans!! He takes pride in EVERYTHING he does. He sings silly songs to me. He actually likes to cuddle. (we won't tell the guys that!) He loves animals...such a personality thing to me...don't understand people who don't like animals. He is an extremely hard worker. He loves and enjoys my friends. He is a good friend to his friends. He understands my craziness and loves me regardless. He is my biggest supporter and champion. He tries to cook...he is learning! (Did I mention that he cleans?) He is incredibly intelligent. He is polite to everyone. (this was one of the first things I noticed about him) He puts others first in situations. He is not a yeller or one who likes to argue. He lets me cry at silly things and giggles with me. He makes me laugh everyday. He is so modest...very cute! He loves my friend's kids...just ask Sloane! He makes time for me and for Eli even when he is tired and had a long day. He smells and tastes my food...yes, I am one of those people! He believes that I can do anything. He is excited to see me, the dogs, and now Eli every day when he gets home from work...even when he is covered in dirt or extremely tired. He sees the positive in all situations. He lets me vent and actually listens and cares. He loves, loves, loves his son and it is so amazing to watch their relationship. Above all, he loves me unconditionally and with everything he's got. I am one lucky, lucky girl and I thank God each day for Lee. I love you babe!!

Special Times...

2008-09-25T15:02:00.013-04:00

So I haven't been the best of keeping up to date on the blog...kinda got my hands full! :) Here are some things that have taken place in the past week of Eli being home:

Uncle Cass and Auntie Melin came to cook us a scrumptious meal last Saturday...they spent the whole day with us since they live an hour away and can't drop by as much. We had a blast!!

We took Eli and the pups on their first walk....went very well! Eli slept the entire time and we of course being new parents worried about him getting cold and every little bump. Surprise, surprise he made it! haha

Uncle Luke, Aunt Missy and Cheyenne came by on Friday night to visit. Uncle Luke is IN LOVE with Eli...comes by a couple times a week to check on him. So cute!

Mom and Dad finally brought the dogs (Winston and Roscoe) back on Friday night....they are adjusting pretty well. They sleep in their beds and have only gotten into the trash one time...we will see how things go! (NEVER thought I would ever say that!)

If you don't know...my dad is a little over the moon about his new grandson. My mom stayed with us the entire first week that Eli was home (CAN I SAY GODSEND!!!!!) and my dad would come by every night just to see Eli and tell him goodnight. It is the cutest thing you have ever seen!!

Aunt Jilly came by and brought us some yummy dinner too....the best were the cookies and all the kisses Eli got! Thanks Jill, Shannon and Erin!

My grandparents all met Eli....he is one lucky, lucky guy!

And of course...Daddy loving on Eli! This picture makes my heart melt...Lee is so in love with his son. It is an amazing thing to watch! Thank you Lord for my husband and this sweet, sweet child!

First Bath

2008-09-25T14:55:00.003-04:00

Eli had his first bath on Tuesday...we had to call in reinforcements! He was peeling really bad (like a snake losing his skin) and I didn't know what to do. Beka brought us yummy dinner (Chicken and Dumplins) and took over...THANKFULLY! She got him all settled in the sink with a towel and she and I gave him his first bath. Daddy missed it but we got pictures so he could see....

Eli didn't love it...maybe he will learn to enjoy bath time! We got him all washed off and smothered him in some vaseline...the peeling is almost gone now! :)

Thanks Auntie Bek!!

Great Day!!

2008-09-23T15:08:00.002-04:00

So today has been fantastic...my dearest and bestest friend Mary came this morning to rescue me from sleepless nights and new mom syndrome! She was just what I needed (she usually always is!)...she loved on my little man which of course I love and she gave me the best gift EVER! Not only did she get me lunch at Chick-fil-a and put Eli in his crib for his first nap not in my arms (have I mentioned that I am IN LOVE with him and he usually naps in my arms or right beside me?!)...BUT she let me borrow her car and DRIVE to Blockbuster! I know this may seem like something small but when you haven't been allowed near a car since last Wednesday it is a HUGE deal! I love to drive...I love the freedom...I love the wind in my hair...I just love it! I was only gone about 15 minutes but it was amazing! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!

Here is a pic of Eli taking his first nap in his crib...

Also big news....We are now nursing like CHAMPS! It has taken us 10 days but finally we have figured out the dance as Beka calls it. :)

Amazing love...

2008-09-20T22:17:00.009-04:00

I cannot believe it has been a week already...time sure does fly! Eli was a week old today...what a big day huh? :) I don't want him to get any bigger or any older...is that wrong? I just am so in love with him right now at this size. He loves me unconditionally and is so attached to me right now. I will say that I do love that he loves his momma so...oh little boys!

Be on the lookout for lots of Eli posts...going to finally get around to getting the labor story down and some of my favorite memories of our long weekend at Piedmont Hospital. I have so many people to thank...girls (you know who you are) thanks for being my support! I could never have made it without each of you...and my AWESOME, INCREDIBLE husband. Have I told you all how much I love him? He was such a calm and loving rock for me during the entire process. What a man!

Here are some of my favorite things so far about Eli:

Little wrinkles above his forehead
Reddish brown hair...who would have thought!
His super gorgeous lips
Little cleft chin
His big ole feet
Tree frog legs and toes
The way he curls his toes as tight as he can get them when he eats.
Sweet breath...oh my!
He recognizes me when I sing "You Are My Sunshine" to him...it will quiet him in a second.
He loves his hands up by his face at all times.
He sleeps!!! (4 to 4 1/2 hours at a time all day/night long - such a good baby!)

I just got these pictures back (My uncle Doug took them for me!) and I wanted to share. It is hard to believe this was just 4 weeks ago...so much as changed!!

James Eli Copeland

2008-09-14T14:42:00.004-04:00

Quick blog...so tired...but ELATED! Eli is the most awesome, beautiful, cool thing Lee and I have ever seen. The birth was amazing (even though it took 2 1/2 days) but we couldn't have asked for anything better. I will update more later but here are some pictures...thanks for all the love and support!

James Eli Copeland

September 13, 2008

7:30pm

6 lbs 19.5 in

The Eli Watch Continues....

2008-09-13T13:26:00.009-04:00

All right, gang. (This is Melin blogging right now). We're back. We're in business. Things are moving. Flowing. You know what I mean...

OK, so we have broken water. We have epidurals in the body. We have pitocen flowing in the system. And when I write, "WE", I mean, Danielle, of course. We're not all giving birth today. She's a champ, though, she's feeling pretty good and smiley and is still giving off that Danielle Glow (TM).

She's resting now, Leebo is giving her sweet kisses on her knees or hands. We're just in waiting mode, but it is GOING to happen today. So, that's the update - at some point, today, Eli is a'comin'. We will be keeping everyone posted by phone, email, and blog, of course.

Mary, also known as the Rock Star Baby Birthing Assistant, was up here bright and early, ready to provide whatever was needed. Even if that meant stompin' on some spiders in the line of duty. To recap: Mammoth spotlights above the bed, and within one of these gargantuan spotlights was a spider, enjoying the view of little Danielle reclining on her bed. Lee couldn't stand that Mr. Spider was watching, and he wanted to open the globe and kill that spider dead where he lay. Not a Charlotte's Web fan, that Leebo. So, he climbed up there, and informed Mary that she was backup, and to be ready. Mary, not such a fan of spiders, was thinking, "I'm here to provide birthing expertise, not exterminator services, but OK."

As you can see in the below photo, that spider was capturing a lot of attention.

Lee was freezing, and although Danielle told him to bring slippers, Lee threw caution to the winds and did not pack any with him. Danielle was quite concerned about her hubby's tootsies, so she persuaded a nurse to track down some slippers. Here is Lee, toes warm, wearing his hospital brand ACTI slippers! Two thumbs up, all the way.
The happy couple below, getting ready for the big day. It's been a cute lovefest in here all morning. Aren't they adorable? They are both so calm and ready, it's awesome.

And here are the ladies. Ladies-in-Waiting, literally. We're just chilling out on the sofa, being quiet with the occasional giggles and grins of excitement. Between all of us at the hospital, waiting, and all of the messages and phone calls, Eli is one loved baby already.

So, stay tuned, folks. He'll be here before you know it!

WE HAVE AN UPDATE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

(Mary here)

The nurse just checked her, she's dialated to 3!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

YEA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

She and Lee are

OVER THE MOON!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Baby Coming Today?

2008-09-13T05:49:00.010-04:00

Hi my fellow bloggers....just me...the one trying to have a baby! :) It is almost 6am and we are getting ready to start the pitocin again. I got 6 hours of UNINTERRUPTED sleep last night...amazing when you are pregnant and even more amazing when you are in the hospital. I was so tired from yesterday's round of pitocin that they took me off the monitors for the night, didn't check my vitals while I slept and gave me Ambien. I slept like a ROCK STAR! I feel very rested this morning....my stomach and abs are a alittle sore from all the contractions I had yesterday...but overall I am positive. I know this process so I am not nervous going in to LDR today. They have me a bigger (and COLDER) room to be in this morning....everyone here has taken care of me so much. I always loved Piedmont...now there is no denying my love affair with the nursing staff, food, or my awesome, awesome doctor. (Dr. Archie Roberts) He is the most patient man on the planet and wants me to have the most perfect vaginal (sorry if TMI) delivery possible and isn't going to rush me or Eli and threaten us with a c section which we are trying to avoid at all costs.

We will still be updating today...hopefully, things will progress a little faster so you won't have to read about what magazines or TV shows we are watching. I am hoping for a messed up hair, no makeup, oh my goodness....she had that baby post...what do you think?? ;)

Much, much love to all of you for reading and sending your sweet comments. We have read each one and it makes our day that Eli (and us) are so loved and prayed for. Keep them coming!! Here are some pictures from yesterday too....talk to you soon!

Cass massaging my feet - BEST Brother and soon to be Uncle in the world!!!

Auntie Melin and Uncle Cass just waiting for Eli!

My dad telling me I had done a great job all day even if there was no baby! He is going to have to find another blue shirt to wear today in honor of Eli. :)

Oh well!

2008-09-12T19:40:00.002-04:00

No baby today...unless he decides to come on his own tonight. I didn't progress at all today even with 6 1/2 hours of pitocin...Eli is just very happy being in my belly! Dr. Roberts took us off the pitocin a little while ago and we are going to try again tomorrow morning. We will start the updates again in the morning...please be praying that I get a good night's sleep tonight and that my spirit stays up. I am starting to get a little frustrated but trying to stay positive! :) Thanks to everyone who came by today and stayed FOREVER with no results - sorry! haha

Love you all and thanks for all the prayers!

More news...

2008-09-12T13:59:00.002-04:00

well, there isn't much news. (mary here)

still getting pitocen - - waiting for some action. the doctor will check her cervix again in a little while if she's at a 3, they'll order her epidural and break her water and then, my friends we'll have some progress.

for now, lee is getting some food and danielle is resting. everyone else is in the waiting room and melinda and i are sitting on either side of danielle's bed having the most organic girl time. who'd even know we're in a hospital room??

loving our waiting game. . . :)

Update...

2008-09-12T10:11:00.006-04:00

Well, the cervadil didn't do much last night....still dialated 1cm but now 50% effaced. I did start having some contractions this morning around 3am but nothing too bad. I am now having contractions about every 10 minutes. They were supposed to induce me this morning around 7:30am but they are booked solid so they aren't starting until 11am. I am now having contractions every 9 to 10 minutes apart. Nothing too bad but we are hoping we are making progress so it is not such a long day for everyone!

Mary got here bright and early at 6:45am to be my "ROCK STAR" doula. Exactly what I needed...I am not nervous at all! Lee on the other hand is super excited and just a tad bit nervous. :) My parents are also here...Dad is proudly wearing a blue Polo shirt in honor of us having a boy! Isn't that cute?? Mom...aka Granny is sitting in her rocking chair with her glasses on the end of her nose reading the front cover wrapped in a shawl....waiting on the arrival of her grandson!!

We will keep you updated....stay tuned!

At the Hospital...One More Day!

2008-09-11T20:55:00.005-04:00

This is so unreal....we really can't believe we are actually here! We got to Piedmont around 4pm to get settled in...we are in the antepartum unit and it is packed. They are actually sending people home or canceling their inductions if not medically necessary. Thankfully ours is medically necessary because of the protein they found yesterday. I would hate to get the news that I couldn't come in today...yikes! My blood pressure is good (kinda high for me but not bad) and my blood levels are fine. I have really liked my nurses so far....they are key to having a great experience I think!

Lee is freezing in here but I feel great! He thinks he should have brought a parka! haha We both had a great dinner and are just waiting until tomorrow morning. Currently I am dialated 1cm and 50% effaced and Eli's head is way down which is good news. Melin and Mary are going to help me update things tomorrow so stay tuned....hopefully we will have a baby soon!!

Love you all and thanks so much for the prayers!!

Now...2 More Days!!

2008-09-10T15:21:00.001-04:00

The doctor called back and my blood work is not where they want it to be...we are going in tomorrow night to start the process (Cervadil) and then they will do the induction Friday morning. Please be praying for us as we are both so excited...yet so nervous! Especially me about the delivery....love you all and will post updates and pics soon!

8 More Days....

2008-09-09T09:42:00.004-04:00

Well, I am 39 weeks today...can't even believe it myself!! We went to the doctor this morning and here is the latest update. I am still at 1 cm and about 20% to 30% effaced...no real change since last week. They did find some protein in my urine (Sorry if TMI) and my blood pressure was high for me. My doctor ordered some blood work and now we are waiting to hear today what it says....if there are any abnormalities in the blood work than I will probably be induced this weekend....if not than we are still on for a induction next week on the 18th. I will keep you posted...and update with a belly pic later today. :)

I also want to thank all my family and incredible girl friends who keep calling me, sending me messages and just checking in. Your words of encouragement and love are what gets me thru the days right now. I love each of you and couldn't have done this without you!! Gracious, I am super blessed!!

My Last Shower...

2008-09-08T22:30:00.008-04:00

was with a group of family that means so much to me! Danielle (my aunt), Kristin (my cousin) and Meghan (my cousin's new wife) hosted a shower for me and Eli a couple weeks ago and it was fabulous! It was an intimate time spent with family and it was so nice to relax and enjoy each and every one of them there. Lee even came and hung out with Uncle Doug and the kids so he got to be a part of it too. Thanks to everyone for a great, great time!! Here are some pictures from the shower...unfortunately we lost a couple when a computer crashed so there are none of the hostesses or the table! :(

Eli's ducky bath towel from Kristin and Millie - so cute!

I got a ton of books from everyone which I loved!!! I can't wait to read them all to Eli when he gets here - well, actually I am reading them now to him. :)

Me and my Mema (my dad's mother) - she has prayed and prayed for this child. I am so blessed to have her in my life. I was her first grandchild and have always loved my time with her. She has loved me like no other and loves Eli already so much!! He is so lucky!

Lee reading some of the Richard Scarry (my favorite as a child) books that his mom and grandmother brought for Eli. He was a bit tired this day as he had been out all night the night before at his 10 year High School Reunion. Thankfully, I didn't have to go!

Me feeding Simpson - look at those blue eyes and smile. Can you say precious??

Lee holding Millie - doesn't he look like a natural? And of course she is just as precious...Simpson, Millie and Eli will be so close growing up. They were all born this year - wow, what a growing family we have!!

9 more days....

2008-09-08T21:36:00.004-04:00

So I am going to try and blog each day (well, the night before) until Eli arrives...think this is such a special time! I am finishing up things here in the house...as most people would say I am nesting. I am also trying to finish up my work load since my last day before maternity leave is Friday. (unless Eli comes early) I am a little stressed and a lot emotional...I have been really clingy towards my mom and towards Lee. I think that could be normal but I am not ashamed if it isn't. I just don't want to be alone right now...feel like this huge thing could happen at any minute and the thought of being alone when it does...well, it is just plain scary!

Since I work from home I am alone all day long (the puppies are sweet but they don't actually count) so when Lee gets home I kinda attack him...poor guy! I have just become this way in the past couple weeks so don't feel too sorry for him! haha Anyway, today was a long day for him and he didn't get home until late and then he basically had to leave to go to his soccer game and won't be home until almost 11pm. What did I do? I had a "mini" meltdown...was cooking some dinner (roasted red potatoes w/ some stewed squash) and just cried and cried. I wanted my husband but he was playing soccer...I wanted my mom but she was making fig jam and too far away for a quick rendezvous...I wanted to call Mary but I decided not too since she has a family of her own and they were probably in the middle of dinner. So what did I do? I crawled on my couch and held my two pups and cried...Eli probably thinks his mom is crazy! Then all of a sudden my phone rings and guess who it is? Mary calling me...she needed to talk too and God just knew what we both needed. Isn't friendship grand?? Especially when God is a part of it and knows exactly what you both need at the exact moment you need it. We both got out what we needed to get out and laughed and just talked...I am better now! To me these two quotes summed up our conversation Mare...thank you!

To the soul, there is hardly anything more healing than friendship.
Thomas Moore (1779 - 1852)

And in the sweetness of friendship let there be laughter and the sharing of pleasures. For in the dew of little things the heart finds its morning and is refreshed.
Kahlil Gibran (1883 - 1931), The Prophet

10 More Days...

2008-09-07T22:40:00.004-04:00

***Turn my music off before playing this...Jonathan, Cass and Lee will be performing this in the delivery room for my entertainment. Melin, Mary and Jennifer will be performing various songs from Mama Mia!***

Girls Night and 90210

2008-09-03T14:03:00.008-04:00

Okay...last one for the day I think! Have I bored you yet??

Last night we had a Girls Night/90210 Viewing Party at my house. Jill, Beka, Kelli and I all gathered in our comfy clothes and settled in for what we thought was going to be a night of Brenda and Kelly reminiscing. Lo and behold! We are old!!! We found ourselves loving the adults in the show and wishing it was all about them. Who cares about high school drama when you have Kelly and Brenda on the same show? AND a hot teacher and principal?? Needless to say, we found ourselves talking over the 90210 lingo (we did still all bob our heads and dance around when the music came on) and finally after an hour of cheesy torture we turned it off. We decided that we could have just as much fun catching up and talking about our lives...so much more interesting than the lives of those that live in Beverly Hills! :)

It was just what the doctor ordered for me...I wasn't feeling too great (the nausea has come back towards the end here) and these girls made me laugh and feel great! Some of the fun topics we talked about....

Jill's perfect ponytail and hair all around

Kelli's beautiful wash and go curly hair

Beka's new blog...urging her to write!! We want to hear!

Some birth stories...but not too many bad ones since I was covering my ears!

All of their precious kids...Joseph, Presley, Bennett, Jack and Bodie...and little Eli on the way!

Friends and what friendship really is

Being there for each other

Missing the other girls that weren't there

Excitement over Eli finally getting here...and ways to make it happen sooner! (Thanks girls! Maybe they will work...)

We started around 7:30pm thinking it would be an early night...but of course it wasn't! They were walking out my door (on a school night no less) after midnight. God bless them because I really needed it...thank you all for coming and can't wait until we do it again!

Roscoe snuggling with Jill - he wasn't supposed to be on the couch but can you blame him for wanting to snuggle up to her! :)

Me eating my 3rd plate of pasta with cheese - yes!

Our love for Montana...

2008-09-03T13:20:00.011-04:00

So everyone knows that my family adores the great state of Montana...here are some pictures to show you just how phenomenal it really is. It has been a place of family, adventure, falling in love, and amazing beauty...I wish I could bottle everyone up and take them with me. Lee is seriously wanting to move out there soon...talks to my uncle every chance he gets about jobs...so maybe just maybe you will all have to come with us!! :)

My parent's old house nestled in the Aspens

One of the lakes near their house

The valley below my parent's old house - look at that sky! This was looking off the front porch - what a view!!

Uncle Norm and Aunt Cyndi's side yard - aren't you jealous??

Part of the Stillwater River

On the side porch of my parent's old house - we are so sad that they sold it!

The entrance to Norm and Cyndi's YME Ranch - the most beautiful place in Montana!

Happy Anniversary!

2008-09-03T12:52:00.004-04:00

So techinally it was yesterday...but can you forgive me? Please?? I did call and send emails...but the blogging post came late! P.S. Remember I am giving you a nephew! :)

Cass and Melin's 1st Wedding Anniversary was yesterday, September 2nd. What a grand, grand day it was last year! So much fun...wish we had all been blogging back then...the greatest weekend!

I love you both more than words and am so thankful that God has blessed me with you both. Lee and I love our family of best friends as we say...you just can't beat best friends marrying your sibling! Guys...Happy, Happy Anniversary! We love you so!

Catching Up...

2008-09-03T12:27:00.005-04:00

So I am in those last few weeks...sleeping is a foreign concept and blogging is the last thing on my mind. I read everyone else's but I want someone else to write mine! haha I am going to post a couple today...so get ready! Here is a catch up of things that have happened in the past week:

We went to the Doctor for our 37 week checkup...I had gained another 3 lbs in A WEEK! My doctor reassured me that it is just water weight but WHATEVER! I hope this comes off soon...haha! Eli is head down (finally!) and weighed about 6 lbs. All was good!
My family from Montana is here....Uncle Norm and Aunt Cyndi and they brought their newest addition with them....MEET ROCKY! He is the cutest thing ever! Everyone kept trying to steal him away...but they weren't amused. We ate a big ole meal at my grandmother's and had lots of time to catch up. It was just what I needed!

Melin and Cass gave me money for a pedicure and manicure for my birthday. It had been about 4 months...trying to be frugal people! I was treated like a queen...every pregnant lady should go when they are 9 months along. They were so nice! I love my toes (even if Lee did step on my toe and break off the edge...UGH!) and my nails look so pretty! Thanks guys!!

Sunday we headed to Kim and Lou's for a birthday celebration/cookout for me. It was very laidback...which again was super nice! I was having a pretty emotional day...poor Lee just takes it all in and hugs me and loves me regardless. As he says "My love for you pierces through all the rotteness...kind of like a lightening bolt". LOVE HIM! Mawmaw made me my very own pound cake which is my favorite...plus gave me fresh peaches and strawberries to put in the freezer for later.

Monday was Labor Day and we ran errands....got some last minute things that we will need in the hospital and for when Eli gets here. It was such a relief to get that taken care of...think we have everything we need now except for ELI! (Come on dude!)

Our dogs have always slept with us...we love to snuggle with them! However, we know that they can't stay in the bed once Eli gets here because I am terrified of putting him in the bed with us (every now and then after feedings - no co-sleeping in this family!) and him wallowing in dog hair. We have made the dogs sleep in their beds during the day (not on the couch) and at night. Winston does pretty well....poor little Roscoe has the hardest time. He gets up multiple times during the night and stares at me with those sweet little eyes of his...it is hard people, HARD! This was the 5th night...they decided to share a bed!

Birthday Love!

2008-08-26T12:04:00.005-04:00

Well, yesterday was my birthday...turned the big 32! I don't really feel any older but probably look a bit older! haha It was a quiet day...nothing big...but that was exactly what I needed being 9 months pregnant. I had a pretty rough night the night before...literally was up every hour going to the bathroom. I would just look at Lee sleeping peacefully beside me and want to strangle him...not really! haha Needless to say, I was EXHAUSTED when I had to get up to go to work. The rainy weather sure didn't help either!

After my meeting with new clients at work, I headed to Mary's to have lunch with her and Sloane. Bailey and her sweet little guy, Landon, were there too so we had a great GIRL TIME lunch! It was really nice! We laughed and Sloane sang Happy Birthday to me and I got to take Audrey to her school (she had forgotten something)....it was just what I needed. I then met my mom to run some errands and then she came over to work at my house. She was helping me get everything organized and rearranged - my bedroom and office/new guest room look great! She is the best and that was the BEST present I could have gotten!!

Lee of course was a dream on my birthday...he woke me up early whispering/singing Happy Birthday in my ear. (could literally just eat him up!) He had cards from him and the dogs and some new perfume....which was all I wanted and needed. He had a pretty good day himself too....Everyone at his work started calling him and wishing him a Happy Birthday. He kept telling everyone that it wasn't his birthday. His birthday is in February...finally he said he figured it out. I worked at Manor Homes for a time and they had gotten our birthdays mixed up...he called to talk to the office manager and sure enough my birthday was listed under February 28th which is his. BUT he got cards, lunch and a homemade pound cake! So...on his way home from work he stopped at the store...got me some flowers and fresh strawberries. He had them cut up and soaking in some sugar by the time I got home and we enjoyed "HIS" birthday pound cake for my birthday celebration! How funny was that!! :)

I got many, many calls and emails from family and friends....I am so loved and definitely blessed! Thank you all for your loving words and silly songs (Cass called me early to sing Happy Birdle Daydle) and blog posts (Mary and Melin). I love you all so!!

Another Great Day...

2008-08-10T19:54:00.013-04:00

What a family little Eli has...full of friends and family that love him so! I was so lucky to have another great shower today hosted by close, close family friends...Martha and Betty. They went to high school with my dad at Druid Hills and have been best of friends ever since. The neatest part of the day is that 32 years ago when my mom was a mere 21 years old...Martha and Betty hosted her baby shower when she was pregnant with me! Isn't that the coolest thing??

My mom's family and her close girl friends all came to Betty's house to celebrate. What fun we had! Eli got a ton of great gifts...lots of precious outfits, car seat from Grandmother Glo, and tons of stuff we will use everyday like our Boppy, bath tub, Baby Bjorn carrier and so much more! It was so great to see my cousin, Laura who just moved back to Atlanta from Auburn. I am so glad she is close....now we can see each other more often! Of course Melin was there...eyeing all the soft blankets and beaming whenever anyone mentioned her being an Aunt! Literally, Eli is SO incredibly lucky to have this girl as his aunt...God certainly blessed him!

Here are some pictures of the great day...it is amazing how loved a girl can feel!!

The precious cake that Martha made!

Opening gifts...was in LOVE with this box/wrapping!

Melin, me and my cousin Laura

Auntie Melin w/ me and Eli!

My grandmother, mom and me - 3 generations!

Opening gifts - Can you see my beat up knees?? haha! :)

So Yesterday...

2008-08-07T20:14:00.004-04:00

Was one helluva clumsy day! I know they say the bigger you get in your pregnancy the clumiser you get...the whole big belly (and in my case big ladies) knocks your equilibrium completely off. That was definitely the case yesterday! I was just walking...yes, just walking in the parking lot of my mom's office when I stumbled and fell....busting up my knees, hands, ankle and my pride! I was not a tomboy as a child so I rarely had skinned up knees....THEY HURT! I sat in the parking lot for about 5 minutes crying and looking at my poor knees and hands. Finally, I made it up (no one was around to help me) and inside where my mom took care of me. I am not going to be ashamed...I was pitiful! I then went and had dinner at my parents house...was putting a plate in the microwave...lost control of it...it fell to the floor shattering everywhere AND cutting my big toe in the process! CAN I GET A BREAK HERE??

So I have a shower on Sunday...my dress comes to my knees...won't I look cute? I have been trying really hard to keep them ultra clean and tons of "Sporin" (as Sloane calls it) on both of them. Maybe they will heal really, really quick and you will never know? The funny thing is...about 8 weeks before my wedding two years ago I fell at work off a curb and sprained my ankle. A coworker was quickly by my side and all I could say was...."AM I GOING TO BE ABLE TO WEAR MY HEELS IN MY WEDDING??" He was a guy...probably could careless but he was real sweet and reassured me that I should be able too. (I did too!) BUT....both of my bridal showers....cute pink silk dresses....great hair....perfect makeup....CRUTCHES and FOOT CAST!! LOVELY!! ;)

It must just be my thing....shower to celebrate something beautiful and grand...I show up looking like a beat up girl! You see why I call my blog...Dash of Grace!

College Days

2008-08-07T14:01:00.003-04:00

A couple weeks ago I had the pleasure of having lunch and a mini baby shower with some of my college girlfriends. We all met at good ole Georgia College (before it was GC&SU) in Adams dorm back in the fall of 1994...oh the memories! Some of us lived beside each other...some lived together...and some just put their mattress on the other's floors b/c her roommate sucked!! (that was me...thanks Susan!)

We try to get together every couple months and they were so sweet to come to me this time since I was pregnant...you know how that goes! We met in Covington to eat some Mexican food (another throwback to our college days) and catch up. It was definitely a different scene as we pushed two tables together...one for us "older" girls and a table for their "little" girls. (Listen, if you would have told me that Shannon would have been a mom to 3 PRECIOUS girls...we would have all fainted!) She and Susan are the "mommies" out of us now and they are SUPERB moms! Maggie and I have to constantly watch our mouths and what we are saying...as to not get in trouble...Tara, she never says an evil word! :) Anyways, I could talk all day about the things we did together in college...but I don't need those reminders...haha!!

Thank you girls for a wonderful lunch and for all the gifts for Eli! I can't wait for you all to meet him...just don't tell him about his crazy momma's college days!!! Love you all!

True Blue Best Friend

2008-08-07T13:24:00.010-04:00

I didn't get to sign on last night and finish up my post to celebrate my true blue best friend Mary...will post about my eventful afternoon and evening later. For now I want to continue celebrating Mary's birthday! (I think everyone should have a birthday week instead of just one day - don't you??)

Like I said in my previous post, I met Mary when I was 15 and she was a mere 16. We were at a RCHS football game and introduced by Abigal Holt who knew Mary and was a friend of mine from church. We immediately hit it off and were BFF's! Now, we have definitely gone thru some ups and downs...hello, we are girls! But we have always had the truest blue friendship you could ever want. Here are some memories and things about Mary Hudgins (love you Chad, but she will always be Hudgins to me!):

Riding in our old Honda Accords listening to Indigo Girls and singing at the tops of our lungs

Going to Chastain (for my birthday) to see Natalie Merchant and it raining...take that back...pouring on us!
Always liking the same boys...this makes being couple friends so much easier...we both adore each other's husbands (in a platonic sort of way) :)

Getting handwritten letters or cards in the mail from her every couple weeks...even when I was in college...think I have saved them all!

Being an "Andelle" to her girls who are like my own...love them to pieces and couldn't imagine my life without them. (hoping Sloane will follow in my footsteps and marry a younger man...ELI!)

Our mutual love of invitations, stationary and GREAT handwriting!

Trips to PC Beach...Holly Hut...NYC...Seacrest Beach...Nashville...Charleston...Beth Moore conferences...and many more to come!

Bible studies at her house....praying over the phone..."God Bless You"...holding tight when scared silly...nothing better!

Laughing until we were crying...and I mean good ole belly laughing!

Sharing our families as if they were our own....we know each others aunts, uncles, cousins, great aunts, grandparents...it is priceless!

Being in each other's weddings...what special, special days! Plus having Audrey as my flower girl.

Her loving Lee and telling me I was crazy to doubt myself...constantly pushing me in his direction and love...she knew from the moment she met him that he was for me! It took me a while to get over the age difference and that he was my brother's friend.

Telling me I can do anything I put my mind to...especially this pregnancy! She is a consummate believer and supporter...no matter what!

Both of us owning up to our faults and mistakes and loving each other in the process.

I literally could go on and on and on...but then you would probably all expect this on your birthday and I don't know if I could do it! haha JK! Mary, I love you, I love you, I love you! You are the first person I call when something bad or good happens....you are my constant...thank you for being you! Hope you had a magical day yesterday! xoxo D

Happy Birthday!!!

2008-08-06T09:53:00.002-04:00

Today is a grand, grand day...birthday of Mary and Beka! I have known these girls since I was 15 and they were 16 (yes, I am younger!) and what fun we have had! I am posting really quickly but that doesn't mean that I have nothing to say about these two...will update more later today! But I did want to get it out there that I am thinking of the two of you today and wishing you much birthday love!!! You both deserve it!

What a Phone Call...

2008-08-01T19:41:00.011-04:00

I just received! It came up as my dad was the one calling but lo and behold! it was Patrick Dempsey calling me. No I am not joking...still in shock myself!

My sweet, incredible, awesome dad just made this happen and I am wishing I could squeeze his neck right now! I know that most girls are daddy's girls but this man hung the moon...gotta love him! My dad who didn't know who Patrick Dempsey was nor had ever seen Can't Buy Me Love or Grey's Anatomy has actually hung out with Patrick a couple times thru racing. See my dad drives a hauler for a race team and works on the pit crew sometimes...he will be at a race when Patrick is there. I remember when I first told my dad that Patrick was a huge movie/TV star and my dad was like "Really? I sat across from him at breakfast this morning and talked to him for about 30 minutes. He seems like just one of the guys...so nice". I of course am in shock that my dad doesn't realize who exactly he is talking too...but I guess this is what any celebrity wants...anonymity on their days off and just being "one of the guys".

So anyway my dad was supposed to be in New Jersey this week with his race team but they ended up only needing one truck. Then he got a phone call asking if he could drive Patrick's hauler to Montreal for the Grand-Am Rolex Series race. He of course was going! He has been hanging out with Patrick all week....always says how genuinely nice he is and so polite to everyone. The race was at 4pm today but is being shown on Speed Channel tonight at 8pm. I talked to my dad right before the race...the team was super pumped and excited! Then I got a phone call around 7pm...Lee was getting my phone for me...so glad he didn't answer the phone! This is basically how the conversation went....

Danielle: Hey Daddy!

Dad/Patrick: Hello?

Danielle: Hello?

Patrick: Hey, this is Patrick not your dad.

Danielle: UH...Hi! (start to freak out...but he had no clue!)

Patrick: I just wanted to let you know that your dad is evidently our good luck charm. We just came in the top 10 in the race.

Danielle: That is awesome!

Patrick: Yeah...your dad is great!

Danielle: He is a pretty awesome guy! I am so excited for y'all.

Patrick: Yep..well he was our good luck charm.

Danielle: Well, I am so happy...and thanks for calling me. You didn't have to do that and I really appreciate the phone call. It made my day!

Patrick: No problem! Have a nice night...here is your dad.

(then my dad accidentally hung up on me)

I was just sitting in the recliner....in complete shock. Lee had no idea what was going on...he just knew that I was slightly freaking out and was really red and waving my hands up and down. As soon as the call ended my mouth hit the floor and I kinda started crying...you know how shock can make you crazy?? ;) I couldn't believe that I had just gotten off the phone with Patrick Dempsey...he really didn't need to tell me his name...you could tell it was him just by his voice.

My dad called me back and asked if I was off the floor yet...haha! He said that they were all sitting around after the race super pumped with their performance. He looked at Patrick and said "You know how dads want to really impress their daughters sometimes?" Patrick said he knew exactly what my dad was talking about. My dad then asked him if he would call me to tell me how they did in the race. He said Patrick smiled and said "Absolutely...give me your phone and I will call her right now."

My mom actually met him last weekend...but did she get a phone call from him? I don't think so! hehe Just kidding. Needless to say, I am on cloud 9 and will probably be here for a while. I wonder if Eli could tell how excited I got? Daddy...you made my year...thank you so much! Patrick...(I know he is reading this) that was by far the coolest thing...thank you! And also to Lee...thanks for letting me ooh and ahh for the past hour. I would totally do the same if Jennifer Aniston called him tomorrow night...

(I am aware that I have used a ton of exclamation points but do you blame me...look at him??!!)

Audrey Claire

2008-07-29T21:33:00.006-04:00

Her name is one of my favorites...just love saying it! I will never forget the day that Mary called me to tell me she was pregnant...then when she called to tell me it was a girl...and of course the call I got from Aunt Sherri telling me that Audrey had arrived! I was sitting in my classroom at Bonaire Elementary School reading a book to my students...we were all waiting for the call as we knew Mary was in labor and all my students knew who Mary was. The phone rang and within minutes I was crying sweet tears of joy! My students were jumping up and down and we spent the rest of the day making cards for Mary and Audrey. I first held her when she was barely 24 hours old...such a cute little Eskimo in my arms! From that moment I was in love! (How could you not be? Have you seen the girl?)

I had the best day with her the other day and I wanted to reminisce....thought I would share! Usually when I end up keeping the girls I end up running around chasing Sloane and completely miss talking to Audrey. I was babysitting the other day for a couple hours and Sloane slept the entire time I was there...missed that happy girl but it gave me and Audrey tons of time to just talk and play.

I can't believe that she will be starting kindergarten in less than a week!! She is a bit nervous about being away from Mary all day but kinda excited at the same time. Since I had experience talking "school" she and I sat down for about an hour and talked about how great kindergarten was going to be. She didn't know that they would still get to have recess, eat snacks, play with toys, and have show-n-tell. You should have seen her face when I told her that not only would she get to do all of that but she would have art class, computer class, field day, book fairs and so much more! I told her about my experience teaching elementary school and how fun kindergarten actually was. (now 1st grade is when it really changes -watch out Audg!!)

After all of our school talk, she set up a stage in the living room and performed her latest gymnastics/dance routine. She almost has her cartwheel perfected! And her front roll is amazing! We laughed and talked about how Sloane was too young to be doing all of this fun stuff - Audrey definitely felt like a big girl! Then we went outside and played on the swing set....well, she played as I sat in a chair and cheered her on!

All in all, it was a great time with Audrey and a day that I will remember. I can't wait to hear how her first day at kindergarten goes....I am just sure she is going to love it! So, Audrey Claire...your Andelle loves you and hopes that we can have many more days together like last Thursday. I love you sweet pea!

Couple Friends

2008-07-28T14:57:00.004-04:00

You know when you get married you kinda have to be friends with your spouse's friends as well? And you just pray and pray and hope that you all get along....well, these two hit the spot!

Lee has known Jonathan since he was about 5 years old and they have been best of friends since about middle school. Jonathan was a bachelor when Lee and I first started dating and was always one of my favorites. He is the SWEETEST guy you have ever met...but not too sweet if you know what I mean. He graciously helped Lee put in our hardwood floors when we bought our house. If you have never done this...you have NO idea how much work goes into it! (well, especially when you have two analytical, perfectionist guys) Lee and Jonathan talk in their own language even...straight movie lines! Tommy Boy being one of their all time favorites...

Jonathan soon started dating Jennifer and I will never forget the first time I met her. They came over to our house to watch a movie and order some pizza....I don't even know if we watched the movie. We talked and laughed and laughed some more! Jennifer is the type of person that you feel like you have known your entire life after 5 minutes - everyone loves her! We now eat dinner with them once a week at one of our houses. (with our menagerie of 5 dogs!)

They just got married this past September (such a great month for weddings) and will not be traveling far for their anniversary this year as it is near my due date. Jonathan (and Jennifer) is super excited about Eli coming and he doesn't want to miss a thing! How can you not love that?? We are their "pregnant people" and I love it!

This past Saturday Jennifer drove me to my shower and kept me laughing the entire time. I am really surprised we made it actually! She helped me get dressed, wrap my hostess gifts, load and unload my car, and so much more. She was a dream! Jonathan was helping Lee build a shelf in Eli's room - which by the way, looks amazing! I am so mad that I don't have a picture of me and Jennifer from the shower (especially since it was her 1st baby shower) but I wanted to let them both know that they are loved in the Copeland home. We are beyond blessed in the friendship department!

8 Months

2008-07-28T14:10:00.004-04:00

Since I have been so terrible at posting lately (mostly due to organzing my house and camera on the blink) I thought I would post a couple today. Aren't you excited??

I was 32 weeks or 8 months last Wednesday so about 7 1/2 weeks left as of now. I feel as though my belly has really popped lately and my belly button is getting ready to go completely flat. Lee thinks that is the best part! He just giggles and giggles when I show him my belly button. Latest happenings:

Eli gets the hiccups about 2 - 3 times a day ususally. I love them except when it is 2am and I am trying to sleep!

My birthmark which used to reside right above my belly button is now about 4 inches above my belly button - WOW!

Eli is pretty big right now - he is over 4 lbs which is a little above average and his head is measuring above average. Just what a girl wants to hear??!! I am hoping he had a growth spurt early and will even out in the next couple weeks.

I had my first shower on July 13th at Kim's house. (Lee's stepmom) It was so much fun! I will post pictures soon - a little behind on those. Sorry!

We are working on the nursery daily - it will be painted by tonight. Yippee!! Lee added a shelf (that is beautiful) around part of the room. Perfect for me to put all the books I have gotten! There again, will post pictures soon.

I am currently reading Charlie and the Chocolate Factory to Eli - he loves it! He just kicks and moves all around while I read aloud to him.

My wedding rings are off! My fingers are starting to swell and I am terrified of them getting stuck on there. I am wearing a little gold ring that says Love on it - my dad gave it to my mom when she was 16 yrs old. (they just celebrated their 35th wedding anniversary)

Eli has dropped down so I don't have indigestion as bad - only when I eat Mexican food. I should stop but it is SOO tasty!

I am going to the doctor every two weeks now and everything is right on schedule.

Shower of Love

2008-07-28T09:30:00.015-04:00

How do I begin to even explain the shower I had on Saturday? My closest "sisters" hosted a baby shower for me at my mom's house and it was beyond wonderful! Have you ever just had that day where you felt completely loved? That was this day for me. (and for Eli)

Melinda came up with the "Nesting" theme and the house was decorated with bird nests and bird houses - so pretty! My brother even helped handpaint all the bird houses. Gotta love him! There were 8 "sisters" who threw this lavish shower but so many more that showed up...even all the way from Perry and Rochelle! (they were surprises)

Mary helped plan the most delicious menu of foods - all of my favorites! She even made chicken salad with all of my favorite things in it - who does that? Rebekah made sure that the Brie bake was made with pasturized brie so that I could eat it - again, great friends!! My mom (who graciously hosted this event at her house) made my favorite coconut cake that is to die for! We were all fighting for the leftovers at the end of the day! (Eli and I still got the bigger piece - haha) I could go on and on about the awesome food and all who prepared it but I haven't had breakfast yet and it is making me hungry! :)
Rebekah came up with a great idea for everyone to bring a quilting square of fabric that matched Eli's nursery colors. This was a surprise - I couldn't even see the invitation until Saturday! (you know that was killing me!) Everyone brought such neat fabric - Susan (my friend from Perry) even cut out a square from an outfit she had made her son, Ben (whom I adore). Now we will put them all together and make a quilt (think there might be enough for a LARGE quilt) to put in Eli's room. I can't wait to see it all put together!

There were no silly games to be played - just talking and laughing until we cried! It is amazing to sit in a room surrounded by 20 or so of your best girlfriends in the world. Everyone went around and introduced themselves and how they knew me - it took about an hour! We all told stories and laughed and cried as the introductions took place. Eli got so many wonderful gifts - monogrammed blankets, handmade burp clothes, vintage books, activity centers, pewter rattles, and so much more. Lee even got a new camo diaper bag from Cass! Two of Lee's closest friends were even there which made the event so special. I think Lee's favorite gift of the day was the newborn onesie that said "My Daddy drives a Toyota" - Great job LauraLee!! Now my sweet Eli is going to come home in that instead of the sweet Pixie Lily outfit my mom got him! :)

Here are som extra shots of the great day - thanks again girls!!

Melissa, Me, Amy

Me opening up gifts and loving my friends!

Me and Mary

Melin so excited to be an aunt!

Random Things About Me...

2008-07-22T14:44:00.002-04:00

I found a new blog today....old friend from high school...Tracey Greene. She did this and I am hoping I can come up with 100 random things! Maybe you will learn something about me...

My name is Helen Danielle Moore Copeland. (I just couldn't drop the Moore)
I am 31 years old.
My birthday is August 25th - Virgo!
I married James Lee Copeland on September 30, 2006.
I am currently 8 months pregnant with our first child.
We are naming our little boy - James Eli Copeland and calling him Eli.
I am currently HOT! Our AC is not working properly and I am dying! (not literally but when you are this pregnant every degree makes a difference)
We have two Jack Russell Terriers - Winston and Roscoe.
We live in Covington, GA and love it!
I love my old ranch style house - so quiet!
I drive an Acura and loving the gas mileage right now!
I love to read.
I love to go to the library and smell books.
I don't want to take my wedding rings off but my fingers are swelling in this heat.
I am crazy in love with my husband!
I love his bald/shaved head!
My family is my everything.
My dad is my hero.
My mom is the best.
My brother is my best friend.
My SEESTER (Melin) is my soul mate.
I am so excited about being a mom to Eli!
I am in love with my dogs! (and hope I still will be when Eli comes)
I love going to lunch with my Mema.
My cousins are my friends and I treasure that!
I love the fabric I am doing Eli's bedding in! (I want my bedding to be it too)
I really enjoy cooking and am thrilled when someone compliments me on it.
I love to see my dad crinkle up and smile.
My brother's hugs are by far the best in the world!
My grandmother Glo is the sweetest and best!
I love Lee's family which is so nice.
I love to wear heels and really miss them now that I am pregnant.
But I also love to wear flip flops and am so glad that I can wear them everyday right now.
I love to wear skirts.
Jeans are like a best friend...love them!
My left ear lobe is torn.
I have freckles.
My hair is naturally curly (really curly) but I wear it straight a lot.
I have only lived in Georgia but in many different cities.
I loved my condo across from the Fox in Atlanta.
Mike was the best roomie!
I don't like to clean.
I LOVE to iron.
I am picky about what iron I will use. (I admit I am a Rowenta snob!)
I love DVR.
I enjoy reality shows like American Idol, Bachelorette, The Hills and The Reas Housewives of Orange County. (but not the New York one)
I love Grey's Anatomy and General Hospital.
My mom just met Patrick Dempsey on Saturday and I am jealous.
I love Justin Timberlake.
I love to look at Beckham but I hate his voice.
I love celebrity tabloids and websites.
My favorite celebrity magazine is US Weekly.
My favorite celebrity website is www.celebrity-babies.com
I love Reese Witherspoon and Jennifer Garner - think they would be my choice of friends if I were an actress.
I love that Roscoe loves me now. (he was abused and didn't like anyone when we got him)
Eli is kicking me right now and I love it!
I have brown eyes w/ hazel or green rims.
I get them from my mom who has beautiful eyes.
I have been blessed with the best friends.
Mary is who I hope to emulate as a mom.
I love jewelry - diamonds and sapphires.
I wish I had the nerve to cut my hair off in a super short bob. (maybe this winter!)
I enjoy watching soccer and hope Eli will play.
I love invitations and wish I owned an invitation shop.
I used to be a middle school teacher.
I work in Sales now.
I am not particularly fond of flying.
I want to find a church home in Covington.
I love praise music - it soothes me!
I hate talk radio.
I love big trucks - think they are sexy!
I wish I could sing.
Have I mentioned that I am jealous of my mom for meeting Patrick Dempsey? :)
I hate Target Registry - they are awful at returns.
I love to read aloud to Eli. (reading Charlie and the Chocolate Factory now)
Pasta is my favorite thing to eat.
I love sweet tea...well, half sweet and half unsweet with a lot of ice!
Lee and I love to watch movies.
I enjoy sitting outside under my pergola (that Lee built) and enjoy my backyard.
I miss teaching somedays.
I love singing with Mike.
My birthmark has moved up my belly 3 inches! (all pregnancy related)
I like to look at other people's pictures.
I always have on lip gloss and mascara.
I enjoy sleeping! (and am missing it lately!)
I have a favorite pillow.
I am not a good student - didn't like school much.
I am named after my great grandmother - Helen Daniel.
I wish my nails would stay long.
I like getting mail.
I love to take vacations with my friends, my husband or my family.
I played Scarlett O'Hara for a summer at Stone Mtn. Park.
I wish my house was completely organized. (working on that!)
It takes me a long time to fall asleep. (it takes Lee 4 seconds)
I am thrilled that I am having a son!
I hate spiders and snakes.
I love purses!
I like talking on the phone.
I married the man of my dreams.
I am thankful for my family, my health, my child, and my friends.

Now...let's see if you can do it??? I dare ya!

Bulletin Catch Up

2008-07-02T13:02:00.002-04:00

Ok...I know...SLACKER!!! Here are some quick bulletins about what is going on with me...will post pictures soon.

Now in the 3rd trimester - woohoo! I am currently 29 weeks today so only about 11 weeks to go. Kinda scary but so excited! Eli is growing and all is well with the pregnancy - I feel great, getting bigger, and loving my time with just him! I don't want to give that up actually.

We went to New Orleans last Thursday for Lee's cousin's wedding. It was such a good trip! HOT but good! The food was yummy (Lee tells me since I am not really into cajun/spicy food) and it was so wonderful visiting with his family that we don't get to see that much. Gretchen (professional dancer/ballerina) was THE MOST gorgeous bride - she floated down the aisle. Dave (her new husband) is a wild man and loves to dance. Needless to say, it was a rocking reception!!

From New Orleans we headed to Seagrove Beach to meet the other half of Lee's family. We are staying in a house with his dad, Kim, Bobby (his little bro), David (Bobby's friend), Joey (another bro), Crissy (his girlfriend), Robin (Kim's sis) and Ron (her hubby). There are 10 of us in here but the house is very spacious! We have our own pool - PRAISE THE LORD! - so it makes it bearable for me. The beach is just way too hot for me during the day. I usually head down there around 4pm to enjoy the last couple hours with the family. They were so gracious to give us the master suite since we had just spent 3 nights in a hotel sleeping in a double bed and sharing the room with Luke and Missy. We are trying to figure out what to do with ourselves in a big ole king sized bed (which I LOVE by the way) - Lee keeps asking why I am all the way on the other side of the bed?! haha

We headed to Seaside last night for dinner at The Great Southern Cafe Restuarant. We had eaten there during our honeymoon and loved it! Lee and I got away and had a little romantic dinner and then met everyone at the ampitheatre in Seaside to listen to a calypso band. It was fun!

We will be back on the 7th and I will post some new pictures of my growing belly! Hope you all have a wonderful and safe July 4th holiday! Love you! xoxo

5 Random Things About Me

2008-06-09T22:43:00.005-04:00

Okay so Mary tagged me...got to come up with 5 random things about me that some of you may or may not know. I am not sure I want some of these things out and about! haha

1. I always have gum in my purse but not the kind that you would think. My grandmother has always chewed Freedent which won't stick to most dental work (hehe!) and I fell in love with it. So if it is old woman denture gum you want I WILL HAVE IT!

2. I am addicted to Celebrity magazines and websites - http://www.perezhilton.com/ and http://www.celebrity-babies.com/ are my top two favorite websites with US Weekly taking the reigning magazine spot. My dad even got me a subscription to US Weekly for Christmas this year - love him!

3. I have a torn ear lobe (my dog tag as my mom calls it) on my left ear. I was wearing hoop earrings in the 7th grade - was loading onto the bus to go to a football game - I was a cheerleader. A friend accidentally snagged my earring and almost pulled it thru - two years later, many earrings later it completely separated at a Lock In at my church. I have never gotten it fixed - just think, you could always identify my body! :) (just kidding)

4. I am one heck of a picky eater - make most people taste or smell my food before I will eat it especially if I am eating out. Too long of a story to go into...but it is true!

5. Even though I have naturally curly hair....it was straight for a long time. I was born with stick straight stringy hair - as it got longer it would have a slight wave to it. In the 6th grade, I chopped it off to my ears - wanted a bob like all the Egyptian girls in the Bangles "Walk Like an Egyptian" video. (it wasn't the best look for me) Once it started growing out it got curlier and curlier - by 8th grade I had a full head of curly hair and it has been that way ever since! I straighten it most of them time now but my dad's favorite is still when I wear it curly. Hope you enjoy some Bangles...

My Guy...

2008-06-04T11:26:00.004-04:00

Yesterdays post was all about the wonderful women I surround myself with...how lucky am I? There was one friend that I left off yesterday...not just because he is a guy...but because he deserved his own post!

He is in a class of his very own....my only guy friend! Sure, I could have others but when you have a friend like Mike you don't need any others. Mike and I met 10 years ago this year at good old Georgia College. We were both wide eyed kids who had dreams of changing the minds of children everywhere...taking it by storm! Then we stepped foot into a classroom...haha!

I could literally type all day about this guy....here are the highlights:

No one on the face of the earth can make you laugh harder!

He is by far the most creative person I know....I keep pushing him to write a book so we can settle down on some tropical island and sip toddies for the rest of our lives!
He is my all time favorite roomie - he cleaned!!!!

Atlanta will never be the same after experiencing it with him...the walks at midnight, the crazy neighbors, Screen on the Green, Fox movie premieres, pizza, Publix shopping, homeless people, Krispy Kreme, our crazy parking deck, wacko blind dates....and so much more!

The BEST teacher I have ever come in contact with....we all should be so lucky to have our children learn from him! If I were rich I would pay him whatever he wanted just to have him teach my children...literally, the best teacher on the planet!

Amber introduced us to concerts...but Madonna will always be ours! (no matter the cost)
Disney World takes on a whole new meaning when Mike Rawls steps onto the premise...right Daveed!

In sickness and health...we have dealt with the big ones and the small ones...this friendship can handle it!

Basically, Mike is the most geniune friend a person can have. There is no pretense, no bullshit, no judging....true blue friendship! My life however full of women friends could never be complete without this guy in my life. He is my love!

My Girls...

2008-06-03T11:39:00.002-04:00

Women are by far the luckiest in this world....our friendships with other women satisfy a craving like no other. It is like finding the perfect pair of jeans or a great pair of heels...once you've found them you hold on to them for dear life! I have been ridiculously blessed with phenomenal women in my life and couldn't imagine a day without them. Here is an ode to each one:

Ginny - my mother, my friend, my rock. Her smell can comfort me more than words. Her tiny hands are my strength.
Melinda - my soul mate and my sister. There are no words for the joy, happiness and love she has brought into my life. I have waited a lifetime...
Mary - my dearest and bestest. We are the old pair of jeans that you never let go of...my life without her doesn't work.
Nicole - my truest and lovliest friend. No amount of space or time can come between our friendship and love...we are always on the same page.
Kristin - my cousin, my friend. We have known each other the longest and she teaches me everyday how to be forgiving, loving, and a better woman.
Melissa - my twin. We love the same things...love the same way...want the same things. She is my other half.
Beka - my supporter and teacher. She loves and supports and teaches without abandonment. She is ever constant.
Amber - my treasure. She knows every part of my soul...the good, the bad, the ugly. She can make you laugh like you have never laughed and always puts in the time to be an incredible friend.
Danielle - my sunshine. Her laughter and sweet hugs make me smile. She loves with her whole heart.
Amy - my joy. To know her is to love her....you will never experience more joy in a friendship than with her.
My aunts - my mothers, my wisdom, my everything. I have been blessed with incredibly strong and beautiful aunts...they teach me everyday about love, marriage, relationships...and so much more! My life would not be complete without them.
Jennifer - my newest and most fun. Her laugh will make you melt. Her joy for life will make you strive to be a better person.
Susan - my teacher, my mother in law. She gave me the greatest gift I could ever want...my husband. Kindness is her middle name...I owe so much to her.
My grandmothers - my heart. I have been blessed with two amazing women who live life and love to the fullest. My life is because of them.
Kim - my friend, my other mother in law. She loves me unconditionally and without reserve...rare to find!

The list could go on and on....I try to surround myself with wonderful women. I went on Sunday to see Sex and the City with Mary...beyond being great it reminded me of my friendships with all of these amazing women. My favorite parts in the movie are when the testament of friendship is shown. Women just know how to fight for, comfort, support, teach, and love one another. One of my favorite books, Captivating by John and Stasi Eldredge says this...

"Women friends unabashedly dive into matters of the heart. The gift of friendship among women is a treasure not to be taken lightly. Women friends become the face of God to one another - the face of grace, of delight, of mercy. To have a woman friend is to relax into another soul and be welcomed in all that you are and all that you are not. When God gives a friend, he is entrusting us with the care of another's heart."

Treasure your friendships....let those women know today how much you adore them!

Why not?

2008-06-02T22:37:00.005-04:00

Since I have been so slack in blogging lately...thought I would do two in one night!

My cutie pie husband has been working his butt off (thank God not literally!) at work and has been putting in some long hours. Memorial Day was a day of rest for many but he had to go finish up a house that was closing on that Wednesday. I went with him to help since two is much better than one! I went around this 5200 sq ft house and put blue tape on any mark, scratch or nick I found...then he would come thru and fix it. It was a long couple hours but we had a great time laughing and singing songs in this big ole house! Here are some pictures...

Things I Love During Pregnancy...

2008-06-02T21:11:00.018-04:00

My cravings keep changing...my moods are up and down...thought I would share some of my pregnancy favorites.

Candy - I have always loved candy more than cake or cookies. Pregnancy has increased this love! Tonight my favorite is Starbursts - yum!

Old Navy Yoga Pants - I live in these! I wish they came in more colors but only in gray and black so far. They are so comfy on the belly!!
Philosophy Amazing Grace Perfume - so feminine and light enough for me not to get a headache. I am in love!

Jim 'N Nicks Brisket Sandwich - BUT I have to have Sonny's Sweet Sauce and a Clausen pickle. They know me in the drive thru! :)

Tropicana Pink Lemonade - I drink water all day long but when I splurge on something else it is definately this! I really do have a bottle in my car (just in case) and one at my house. haha!
Soft Lips Vanilla Chapstick w/ SPF 20 - I have never really worn chapstick but I have fallen in love with this stuff. I literally have it all over my house...my car...my purse!

Bali Seductive Curves Underwire Bra - I found these bras in Destin at the Bali outlet (thank you Jennifer!!) and am in heaven! They have wide straps, 3 hooks in the back, underwire AND foam cups which is essential. I don't know what I am going to do when I outgrow these - they only make them in certain sizes!! YIKES!

Palmers Body Oil and Stretch Mark Cream - it is a complete system that takes me a while but I am determined to do all I can to help my dry, itchy skin. I start with some regular lotion mixed with the body oil over the entire body then I use the SM cream on the belly, boobs and bottom. Maybe I will be blessed with no stretch marks...

Saving the best two for last....

9. My husband - What more can I say than I love him! He has been absolutely amazing during the past 24 weeks...from going to the grocery store multiple times, to helping me figure out what sounds good to eat, to bathing the dogs once (or twice) a week, to rubbing my back or head when it hurts, to driving me to the hospital in the middle of the night and being happy and supportive...he literally is my very best friend and I am so blessed to be going thru this amazing process with him. Baby, I love you more than you know!
10. My belly and Eli - There are literally no words for this love! God has blessed me with this sweet child growing in my belly and I am forever thankful. I enjoy...absolutely LOVE being pregnant and cannot wait to meet my son! I am constantly rubbing my belly...I think I am going to be really sad when I have Eli and my belly is gone. Lovebug...you are my heart!

Slumber Party and Blogging Wars

2008-05-25T00:22:00.003-04:00

For my blog today....please read this little quip from me and Melin: (read the post and then my comment)

http://www.melindawilliams.blogspot.com

This is what it is like when we slumber party and blog all at the same time....crazy times peeps! We are so freaking hardcore!

xoxo D

Happy Mother's Day

2008-05-11T20:26:00.007-04:00

Happy Mother's Day to all my fellow mother's...I can say that now!! :) Today was my first Mother's Day and it was so special. It didn't start off that great...had one heck of a headache and didn't get out of the bed until after lunch. Lee brought me breakfast in bed along with some flowers from he and Eli. Lee went ahead to his mom's without me and enjoyed a nice meal with her and his brothers. We met my family over at my parents house (my headache finally subsided) for a great meal and some yummy desserts. It turned out to be a great, great day!

Just a few words about my mom...she is the best! She is one of my closest friends and someone who has really been there for me during this pregnancy. I think she and I have grown closer over the past five months. She has encouraged me and loved me and hugged me (which I need all the time) and supported me. I could not imagine my life without her...love you Marmalade!

Enjoy some pictures...

My Grandmother and my Mom

Added Melin to the group

Me, Lee and Eli (5 months pregnant)

Tulips from my Grandmother and Peonies from my Dad

So sleepy...

2008-05-10T22:12:00.002-04:00

What a night! Relay for Life was incredible...tiring but great! Our awesome team raised over $1400 and we had the best time. These are some of the pictures...hate that we are missing a picture of Dan aka "Buff Hula Guy" cooking in his apron, Lee in his bathing suit, Cass getting a 20 minute massage, Danielle and Melin getting out of the tent at 3am wet from the rain, and of course the renewal of our wedding vows. I am waiting on our official picture from the church that put this on...when I get it I will do an entire post on that..SO MUCH FUN!! All in all we had a great time...sleeping in a tent on the hard ground in the rain isn't so much fun especially when you are 5 months pregnant and having to get up all the time to go to the bathroom (across the track) and get comfortable. Cass, Melin, Lee and I stayed all night...such troopers! Much thanks to Lee and Jonathan for making our Tiki Hut, Jennifer for being such a great co-captain, Kim for bringing all of leis and goodies...I could go on and on about all the things are team did! MOST of all, I want to thank all of my family and friends who donated money to this great cause. As of this morning our event had raised $2.2 million dollars - AMAZING! It broke our hearts to watch the Survivor Lap as so many young kids walked by...they are the brave ones! Enjoy the slideshow...

Happy Birdle Daydle!!

2008-05-08T14:11:00.006-04:00

Today is my little brother's 29th birthday!! A ritual in our family is to sing the Happy Birdle Daydle Song...hope you enjoy! (my mom's family came up with it when they were kids and it has been passed down)

Wow...I can't believe he is almost thirty...just doesn't seem right! I was just 2 1/2 when my parents brought home this little man...he was so tiny! (not even 6 lbs) I cherished him and thought of him as my personal doll. I kinda still do! (he hates that) We have gone from fighting each other over who got the biggest slice of cake to annoying one another with one finger over the "imaginary line" in the car to being the best of friends! I am seriously one lucky girl...my brother is one of my closest and dearest friends. We don't just see one another on holidays or at family get togethers...no, I usually talk to him every day..sometimes multiple times. We are both lucky that we like each other's better halves...I think sometimes that Lee married me just to be around Cass more! My brother has grown from a small little stinker to a wonderful, awesome man. I am so proud of him and the choices he has made...he is an extremely hard worker and has accomplished so many things in his career...he has an incredibly amazing marriage...and is going to be the BEST uncle little Eli will ever have! He may be rough and tumble to others..but if you really get to know Casper you will find a sweet, sensitive boy that loves to be loved and still gives the best bear hugs around!!

More about me...

2008-05-06T22:20:00.005-04:00

What Was I Doing Ten Years Ago? Wow, ten whole years ago...it was 1998 and I was getting ready to move to Macon to start my teaching classes at GCSU/Macon campus. I was dating Brandon...driving a black Honda Accord...didn't even have Winston yet!!

Five Things on My To-Do List Today :
1. Work, work, work
2. Keep Audrey and Sloane for a couple hours
3. Go to grocery store
4. Make dinner
5. Finish up Relay for Life stuff

Five Snacks I Enjoy (Can I write "anything not nailed down?"):
1. Blueberry PopTarts - a new pregnancy craving!
2. Reduced Fat Wheat Thins w/ Cheese
3. Fresh Pineapple or Bananas
4. Salsa and Chips
5. Almonds and Vanilla Yogurt Raisins

Five Things I would Do If I Were a Billionaire:
1. Pay off all debt for me and my family
2. Buy some land and build a house
3. Donate a large portion to local charities
4. Take all my family and friends on a luxurious trip - maybe rent a island!!
5. Save it for my kids and their kids

Five Bad Habits:
1. Leaving dirty dishes in the sink
2. Procrastinating
3. Watching General Hospital - at least I DVR it!
4. Don't make my bed every morning
5. Drive way too fast

Five Places I Have Lived:
1. Conyers, GA
2. Atlanta, GA
3. Macon, GA
4. Perry, GA
5. Covington, GA

Five Jobs I've Had or Have:
1. TCBY (when I was 16!)
2. Retail - Gap, GapKids, Payless
3. Middle School Teacher
4. Marketing Director
5. Sales @ The Icebox

I Want to Know More About ( a nice way of saying "your tagged")
1. Mary
2. Melinda
3. Amber
4. Kristin
5. Jill

Sleepy pups...missing mom!

2008-05-05T13:10:00.004-04:00

So I had the best time at the beach this past weekend. It was such a treat! Talk about a relaxing trip...we did nothing we didn't want to do! We slept in, stayed up late, watched movies, shopped, sat on the beach and by the pool, ate TCBY every day....it was perfect! Jennifer is my new traveling buddy...who knew we would get along so well and travel perfectly together. That is so important!! We are already planning our next "relaxing" trip with the boys for New Years..back to the beach for some bike riding, kayaking, walking on the beach and relaxation! One of the best moments when I got home (besides squeezing Lee to death) was seeing my pups...they really missed me! I was laying on the couch and they came and got beside me in this pose...how freaking cute are they??? I am in love with all the boys in my life right now...Lee, Baby Eli, Winston and Roscoe. :)

In Love...

2008-04-30T16:36:00.003-04:00

Ok...I know I am biased but I am IN LOVE with this child! We had our 20 week appointment today and everything is right on schedule. He had 10 fingers and toes, four chambers in his heart, no cleft palate...and definitely still a boy! I have gained 5 lbs so I am right on track...woohoo!!! Me and the baby are heading to the beach for a couple days so this post will be real quick. But I had to share this one picture with you...started crying when I saw it! I just love his little hands up by his face...like I said...IN LOVE with this little man!

Favorite Beauty Products

2008-04-29T19:03:00.010-04:00

Okay...so Melinda sent me another challenge by doing a favorite beauty products blog. I really have so many to choose from but here are some of my favorites...sorry there are so many!!

Philosophy Amazing Grace Body Shampoo: I had a client who everytime she came in for a meeting I wanted to sniff her..really! I finally asked her what perfume she was wearing and prayed that is wasn't perfume (b/c I really don't like it) and lo! and behold it wasn't! All about the Philosophy Amazing Grace products...IN LOVE!

Loreal Voluminous Mascara: Ok...if you know me at all you know that I LOVE, LOVE mascara! It is really the one thing that I will not leave the house wearing...well, maybe sometimes if I am just making a midnight run to Taco Bell! haha I have been wearing this mascara since I was sixteen years old and the ex (Brandon)told me I had the prettiest eyes he had ever seen...flash forward 16 years and I still swear by this mascara! AND yes (to Melin and others) I have TRIED other mascaras...but really don't like them!

Proactiv 3 Step Skincare System: I started using this about 6 months ago and my face loves me for it! I don't use it as I should all the time because there again if you know me at all...I HATE to wash my face at night...really need to get better at that!

Neutrogena Body Oil: Melinda turned me on to body oil about four years ago and I have been using it ever since. I mix mine with whatever lotion I am using at that moment and slather it all over my body. I will say I have really soft skin...just hope that it works really well to spare my lady lucious friends from stretch marks!

Cover Girl Lipslicks: (Daring) Melinda who is a product whore (yes I said it!) was cleaning out her product CLOSET a couple years ago and threw in the "bag for Danielle" this lipslick stuff. It is all I wear now for lipstick. I really HATE lipstick and how it feels on your lips...this stuff is sheer and the most perfect color for my skintone. Pop my next favorite on top of it...you are ready to hit the town!

Victoria Secret Beauty Rush Lip Gloss: (Candy) I picked a couple of these up last summer as little favors for Melin's lingerie shower. Who knew they would be such a hit? I think every single lady who was there (including my mom) swears by these...I have about 5 tubes laying around at all times! Candy is the perfect color by the way! (the only one I wear)

Bare Minerals Bronzer and Cover Girl Classic Pink Blush: For those of you wondering how I get maintain such glowing sking admist this pregnancy (just kidding of course) I owe it all to Bronzer and Blush. I first bought the bronzer right before my wedding to try and acheive that sun kissed look...fell in love with the Bare Minerals Bronzer. Side note...I cannot use all the others as I have very dry skin and it makes my face peel from dryness. Then I add a touch of color to the cheeks, nose and waddle (remember Ally McBeal?)...this adds color to your entire face someone told me. My favorite blush of all time is Cover Girl Classic Pink...it is consistently an Award Winner and it is CHEAP! What more could a girl want??

MAC Eyeshadow: (not the color in the picture) To say I am addicted to MAC eyeshadow is an understatement...LOVE, LOVE, LOVE this stuff. My good friend Melissa turned me onto this great product a couple years ago and I swear by it! My all time favorite is Naked Lunch as a all over base and right now I am loving Satin Taupe has my secondary color...it regularly changes though! Plus if you save your empty containers...you get a free one when you turn in 5 empty ones! I am up to 3 empty ones and working on #4 and #5!

Well, I hope you have enjoyed my favorites...I have plenty more if you are interested! We are off to the doctor tomorrow for my 20 week appointment and another ultrasound...THEN I am off to the BEACH!! Woohoo!! A little girls trip for a couple days in Destin...don't care if it rains the entire time...just going to relax! Love you all!

Baby's First Concert

2008-04-28T19:52:00.006-04:00

So little one has already been to his first concert! I had gotten Lee tickets to see Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban for Christmas since he is IN LOVE with Carrie. We went on Friday night and had the best time! Eli (name we like right now) just kicked and danced in my belly all night. Lee even felt him kick that night!!

Growing Belly and Little Kicks

2008-04-24T22:45:00.005-04:00

Well, I have been so busy with work this week that I haven't posted in days...I am so sorry! I was 19 weeks on Wednesday and feel great. As you can see my belly is just growing, growing, growing...I love it! My pants are really starting to not fit even with the belly band. I went and tried on some maternity pants today and can't find any that I really love. They are either too tight in the waist and fit perfect in the butt or either perfect in the waist and way too big in the butt. Even when I am pregnant and gaining weight I still don't have a butt!!

Food is still my best friend...but now the middle school cravings are gone! Thankfully!! I am eating tons of turkey sandwiches (heated of course) and veggies. My body is thanking me daily...haha! The only annoying thing is that I am so hungry in the morning that my normal breakfast of fiber cereal and a banana just doesn't cut it. I have to eat like a lunch or dinner meal since I don't really like eggs and bacon. Lately, I have been eating a turkey and swiss cheese sandwich with some hearty wheat grain bread. YUM!

The best thing is that I felt the baby kick or move around tonight!! This week I have been thinking I could feel little kicks but this was DEFINITELY it. It was incredible! Secretly, I am glad that Lee doesn't get to experience this...it is so special to have this time with little man all to myself. I am totally in love with him! I had a dream last night and could see what he looked like...he was beautiful!

Anyways, we are off to a busy weekend...Carrie Underwood and Keith Urban concert tomorrow night...then the Inman Park Festival on Saturday. My office is having a big ole party during the Festival...it should be fun! I think I am going to sleep on Sunday....

Girl's Day

2008-04-20T19:40:00.002-04:00

All of us need a girl's day every now and then! Today was the day for me and some of my best girls...what a day! There are about 5 of us that try to get together about once a month since we all lead such busy, busy lives. Four of us (me, Amy, Bek and Melin) were able to meet in Decatur today for a day of catching up and good ole girl time. We met at Bek's to see her newly painted house (which by the way, looks FANTASTIC) then headed downtown to eat at Sweet Melissa's. We ended up sitting outside for about 2 hours or so...we had lots to catch up on! After we stuffed our faces (girl's day is all about eating yummy food...that is not always good for you!) we walked around Decatur and shopped. It was a perfect day! I think we all needed it...

Tomorrow is going to be another kind of girl's day. One that I hope I never have to go to again. My good friend from college, Jessica, will be burying her little sweet Zach. He was born at 23 weeks and fought a very hard fight for six months. His little lungs just couldn't handle the fight any longer and he was granted his wings on Saturday morning around 10:30am. All of us Phi Mu girls are gathering tomorrow in Athens to support Jessica, Kyle and Maddie Grace. Please remember this family as I know the next couple weeks and months will be very difficult.

2008-04-17T15:31:00.003-04:00

So Roscoe loves my belly and my luscious counterparts these days...haha! No longer is he content to lay beside me on the couch while I work on my laptop. NO...he wants to lay on me...at all times! It is funny because Winston is oblivious to my new larger parts but Roscoe has clued in big time. I wonder what is going to happen when they are too big for him to lay his head on as I type? Wait...how am I going to put the laptop on my lap and type with the belly in the way? Oh no....

It's a....

2008-04-16T11:19:00.002-04:00

BOY!!!!! I just knew that it was a boy...had a feeling I guess! :)

He is so precious and wonderful. I am tearing up just typing this...wow, what an amazing adventure last night was! My mom and Nicole went with us which was so great. Nicole won't be here for any of my showers or the birth so this was a neat way for her to share a special time with us. It was also Lee's stepmom, Kim's birthday so what a surprise for her! We went over there and had dinner and dessert to celebrate. My mom is overjoyed! My dad is in Mexico on business but I called him while they were still doing the ultrasound. He is so proud and excited...and of course he cried! (he always does!) We are having Lee's mom and family over tonight to celebrate. Everyone is just thrilled!

No...we don't have a name yet. We have some favorites and are trying to make our mind up by this weekend. I want to start calling him by his name instead of monkey, little man or buddy. We will definitely let everyone know when we figure it out! It is stressful picking a name for a child. So much pressure!!!

Here are some new pictures...I am 18 weeks today so almost half way there. Only 22 weeks until I can hold this sweet one!!

Waiting...waiting...waiting...

2008-04-14T13:27:00.003-04:00

It is like I am 5 years old and it's the night before Christmas! We find out what we are having tomorrow and I can barely concentrate on anything. The poll closed a couple days ago on what people thought we were having - majority thinks it is a girl. Lee and I think it is a boy but we only have a girl's name picked out so who knows?? I am ready for either...I just want to know what it is so I can start calling it by it's name and SHOPPING! My mom and I ran into Kohl's on Saturday and both of us could barely contain ourselves in the baby department. I kept picking up cute things and oohing and aahing...but then reason stepped in and I put them all back. Well, except for one set of onesies that had firetrucks on it....girl or boy my child will have to wear them in honor of my dad - Cap as he is going to be called. (Short for Captain - what they called him at the fire house)

Anyway, check back tomorrow night or Wednesday morning. We will post the BIG NEWS and some pictures of the little one. I am really excited about finding out but even more thrilled to see my little monkey (Amber, I am stealing this!) and see how big he or she is!!