Michael, Andrea, Elli Kate

2011-03-31T20:25:00.000-07:00

check one two

"......in the event of a decompression please place your mask on FIRST then assist others with theirs."

2011-01-19T04:49:00.000-08:00

Do you ever wonder why those flight attendants say this? I mean really do they REALLY know what they're talking about here?? I have come to know that most of them do. I've listened/recited this PA so many times I can say it in my sleep but this is my favorite part. Why? Well, at first I didn't understand why it was so important to secure my self first instead of taking care of my loved ones/kids first should this happen. I mean as a mom your conditioned to put everyone else's needs above your own. But then I discovered that in decompressions you lose oxygen on the plane, therefore if you do not "don your mask" in a certain amount of time you will go unconscience due to lack of oxygen therefore unable to assist anyone around you therefore causing them to slip into unconscienceness too. In other words making you totally useless.

I say all this to say I have learned this to be true as a mom/wife. I've realized the importance of taking care of me and investing in ME so that I can then pour into my daughter and husband. I'm so NOT perfect at this as Michael can attest to the days he comes home and I'm running on empty due to a teething toddler and the smallest things can set me off. And as of late it seems being on edge and quick tempered is what I'm good at. But can i just say what a difference it makes when I get up before everyone else, have time to myself, get to drink a cup of coffee ALONE in the peace and quiet, and just recharge my batteries. It seems to make all the difference in world in my day.
In the devotional OUT OF THE SPIN CYCLE by MOPS person Jen Hatmaker she writes:
Motherhood is like a pitcher with a hole in the bottom: a constant drain on our energy, patience, and tolerance. Our only hope is to speak with kindess and lead with patience, and not to threaten our children with homicide is to ensure our spiritual reserves are not bone-dry. The arrows of exertion flow constantly out of us, but no arrows of grace, strength, and peace are flowing in. Under the banner of selflessness, we neglect our own spiritual health and sabotage the very service we want to render. When the Word of God is flowing through me my baby can spill her drink for the fourth time and I can say, "Its just a drink," When I'm spiritually dry I could literally lie on the soggy floor bawling overit. Out of the overflow of the heart the mouth speaks. A simple space at the beginning of your day between you and God is essential."

Can i get an "amen?"
So all you moms out there, I just want to challenge you. I know you know this but remember to take time for yourself. Allow yourself time for the Lord to pour into you so that you will then have something to pour into your family. Cause lets just be honest, mothering/wife-ing sucks when your running on fumes.

"For our of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks." Matthew 12:34

Officially the world's worst blogger

2011-01-17T20:07:00.000-08:00

Wow. I concur. I'm sure most of you have quit checking our blog because we so rarely post! But alas, I concure, I'm not that good at it. In my defense we've had no internet because of moving into our place here in Laredo and GETTING BACK OUR STUFF AFTER TWO YEARS!! So needless to say I've been a tad distracted with unpacking (with a toddler its a WHOLE different ballgame) and REdescovering my great taste in decor.

But again. Wow. My life is so full. Our life here in Laredo is amazing. It's such an adventure to live in a bordertown and I love every single second of it. Oh my gosh were to even begin?????

First and foremost Elliana is absolutely thriving these days. Everyday I see her and Michael's relationship develop and its such a joy to stand back and watch the two of them in their own little world. She continually amazes me with the words that come out of here mouth and the things she's able to figure out. Yesterday she discovered the Ipod fits in the air-conditioner vent. I had the joy of gettng to unscrew the whole screen to retrieve it. She's also very curious about the potty. So curious in fact she dumped her cheerios down the toilet right before the "Ipod episode". Good times. The other day michael was holding her and she looked at him sweetly and said, "Ooooh Dada." First thing she does in the morning is point out my "dose" "eyes","mouffffff", "eeeeerrr". Most of the time I enjoy hearing her say "ma-ma" 90,000 times a day for I know there will come a time when she wants nothing to do with me. So many moments I wish I could bottle up and treasure them forever.
She's growing by leaps and bounds and is becoming such a little girl! I love being her mommy.

Aunt Kate and Uncle Kate

2010-11-24T14:06:00.000-08:00

Last weekend we drove up to Dallas to visit our newlywed friend Katee and Tyler. We had so much fun with them! Elliana love seeing them and even loved her Uncle Kate and little more each time she was with them. Michael and I had so much fun staying at their house and seeing how awesome Katee decorated it. Cant wait to see them again soon!

Bromance
The Ladies
Mommy and Elliana
Elliana and her Uncle Kate
Aunt Kate
We love these guys!

Too Cute for Words

2010-10-19T12:54:00.000-07:00

Can I just way that lIfe has been great now that we're under the same roof as a family! Amazing. Elliana is growing by leaps and bounds. I see more and more of Michael in her everyday. Seriously this child is him %100. She's unbelievable detailed oriented, a great leader, and has a tender heart. All of these I am not, except maybe the tender heart.

She's been saying more and more words her favorite being "MO!!!" (elmo) then singing the theme song by singing "LA LA LA LA". Yesterday she woke up from her nap and started crying and saying, "No night night! No night night!" She picks up on words so fast! Day before yesterday I laid her down for her nap (Yes. In her PACK N PLAY and dont judge me cause she's never slept in a crib) and found a surprise when I went in there. Mind you I moved everything WAY outta her reach before I left the room. I went in there to find tons of toys and her baby stroller in her bed. I still am totally baffled by how she was able to reach them. She's stinkin cute and is a blast to love on. I love being her mommy!

Laredo and Pink Tutus

2010-10-09T18:59:00.000-07:00

Elliana and I officially have arrived in Laredo! I have to say this town is pleasantly surprising and definately gets a bad wrap as a border town. It's honestly not that bad. We're having a blast getting settled in and loving being together as a family again! I love havin my own place it unreal! At this point I told Michael he couldve put me in a motel 6 and I'd be happy! Ellliana is doing awesome and loves seeing her daddy and playing with him. LIfe is good. I'm so happy.

WE"RE UP AND RUNNING!!!!

2010-09-29T16:27:00.000-07:00

I feel like it's been forever since i blogged. Maybe because it has. Alot has happened in the past few weeks. Michael has moved to Laredo finally and began planning the grand opening of our CFA! Elliana and I are joining him a week from tommorrow! We are so excited its unreal. Im so excited to be able to function as a family again. And I know Michael is ready to see Elliana on a day to day basis. ( and of course me but that's an understood)

As for Elliana, she is B-U-S-Y!!!!! She is on the go more than ever these days. She'll be 16 months on the 11th which I can hardly believe. She's very active and doesn't like to sit still very long unless she's coloring. Coloring is a definite love of hers these days. She's very independent and I can already tell she's very driven. I think tenacious is one way to describe her as well. Once her mind is set on something that's all she's focused on until it's taken care of. On the flip side she seems to have a sensitive spirit about her as well. When she sees others cry, she often will go love on them while crying right along side of them (Ex: church nursery). Minus the crying part she is definitely her daddy's daughter. She's 100% Michael. I can't wait to see how their relationship blossoms once we're all together.

Hoping to post some pics once we get to Laredo. Cant wait!

2010-09-18T08:09:00.000-07:00

Helloooooo!!!!!!! I know you were shocked when you saw an actual blog update! I'm pretty surprised myself. We've been crazy busy the past month getting ready to move and so forth. Michael is already down in Laredo as of last Monday and Elliana and I will be joining him in 3 weeks! I can not tell you how excited I am to live as a family again. Words just cant express!! Our store opens October 14th so we will hit the ground running once we get there. Still dont have a camera thus the lack of pics and updates. These pics are from this summer when Jo and Charlie came down for Elliana's bday. Enjoy!

Shut Up and Remember

2010-08-08T07:41:00.000-07:00

I am a realist. Bottom line. Maybe this is a good thing because I'm married to a dreamer. He envisions the future when I'm just trying to get past today. For him,today is not enough. For me, the thought of tommorrow overwhelms me. We're perfect for eachother.

On the flip side be a "realistic" person is down right exhausting. I feel like I spend everyday having arguments with myself. Even in the most perfect and amazing situation I'm somehow able to go to the worst case scenario for what COULD happen to mess up something perfectly good. I guess you could say I'm always mentally prepared for the worst.

As of late Ive felt so overwhelm with our circumstances and our future as well. Maybe its all the change thats taken place in the past year (and I hate change) or the huge change that's about to take place in the next month and a half. I mean for the love of God, lets get settled already. Change makes me feel out of control. I don't like NOT knowing what to expect. I feel like I'm always making myself feel guilty for things out of my control yet I cant seem to stop the cycle of the mind battles. I feel guilty for being a working mom. I feel guilty for being ok with being a working mom. I feel guilty for not being able to juggle everthing and not do it perfect. I feel guilty for being nervous about living away from my family because I wont have that physical support system once we get to Laredo. Its a viscious unattainable cycle. For being such a realist I put such unrealistic expectations on my self.

Before you feel the need to go pop a Zoloft there is an up side to this posting. While it's okay to think through scenario to be smart I tend to take it to the extreme. Thus I've adapted a philosphy...."Shut up and rememeber" (or for those of you with little ones "S-H-U-T-U-P and remember.") For me I have to tell my mind to shut up so my mind wont go into that downward spiral about the worst case scenario. I came across two verses that caused me to have this revelation.

"Come and listen, all you who fear God, let me tell you what he has done for me."
Psalm 66:16
"Come and see what God has done, how awesome he works in mans behalf."
Psalm 66:5

So I'm going to tell you what God has done for me:
1) I have a daughter whose conception is unexplainable other than divine
2) I've been married to the same man for 9 years now
3) I have an amazing job I love
4) My family rocks
5) I have friendships that are more precious than anything in the workd
6) I'm confident the Lord will provide some one trustworthy to take care of Elliana when I have to work
7) I'm confident that the Lord will provide friendships in Laredo and empower me to learn Spanish
8) After 3 years of waiting for the perfect store we got more than we asked for in the chickfila store in Laredo

I hope my transparency has helped you some as well. I just empowered myself a little bit too. I'm blessed to have the life I have. It's time I start breaking this cycle I have been entertaining far too long.

Summer Pics

2010-07-26T07:49:00.000-07:00

Here are some pictures in random order from this summer!

LAREDO OR BUST!!!!!!!!!!

2010-07-21T08:43:00.000-07:00

Test me in this," says the LORD Almighty, "and see if I will not throw open the floodgates of heaven and pour out so much blessing that you will not have room enough for it."- Malachi 3:10

After 3 years of beginning this journey with Chickfila Michael, Elliana, and I will be moving to Laredo TX in September. Words can even begin to describe the emotion of know that we are now at the end if this looooong process. We are so excite to be going to south Texas.

On my end of things I am overwhelmed and greatful to Chickfila for believing in my husband to do such an awesome job with this big of an opportunity. If I may, I'm gonna brag on Michael for a moment. To put things into perspective the odds of being selected to operate a brand new store, (right out of interim assignment) that is expected to dominate in sales, is unheard of. Most operator candidates recieve a low volume store that has been in business for years and then later on they may recieve a larger volume store at a different location. In other words the "norm" is to eventually work your way up to a brand new store. I've always known since I met Michael that God's hand was on his life. He is a man set apart in so many ways from others. He's an amazing leader with vision to improve what needs improving, yet somehow he does perfectly and gently. As I told those who interviewed us that Tuesday, "It don't get better than Michael Hancock." I'm so greatful that Michael's bosses see what I see and know what i know.

I'm so excited to be back in Texas and in a small town at that. We are excited to see what the Lord has for us there and start building our life there! There are so many prayer requests I have for yall if yall could be praying. The grand opening is scheduled right now to be October 7th. We need alot to happen before then!

For the Lord to provide:

60+ outstanding employees

a great managment team

ability to break through the language barrier (its 99% hispanic there)

for us to find respectable daycare when I have to work

for us to make friend and find a church

for my schedule to work out so I can be apart of the opening

that the details of building the store would happen and fall into place

Protection

a place to live

that the adjustment would be easy and smooth

The verse in Malachi 3:10 is the heart of the life Michael and I live. God has poured out so much blessing on us my heart cant contain it. Thankyou for all your prayer and support. We'll keep you posted on it all!!!

Sweet Little Lady

2010-07-10T06:14:00.000-07:00

Elliana is growing so fast I cant believe my eyes. At 13 months she continues to show her "true colors" I guess you could say. She can say words like "mama", "dada", "mah" (max the dog), "mil" (milk), and so forth. She is a very determined little thing and tends to be pretty "black and white" about everything. For example when she wants something she s either calm and happy about it or screaming cause she's trying to tell me what she wants. THere's no middle point there. We're working on that one. I've learned she prefers to do a lot of things in her own time when she's ready and doesn't care to be forced into doing something (i.e. Walking). She's not that interested in walking at the moment but I have a feeling one day it'll click and there'll be no stopping her. She loves to read and constantly be doing something. At the same time of having such determination she has such a sensitive heart. She does awesome at obeying the first (and second) time she is told no. Hoping this sticks to the teenage years! I guess you could say she's the best of both worlds! We love our baby girl!

My Iron Man

2010-06-27T23:38:00.000-07:00

(SIGH) I"m married to an IRONMAN. Wait. Let me say that a little louder. IIIIIIIIIIIM MMMMMARRIED TO AN IIIIIIIIRONMAAAAAAAAN!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Heck yeah baby!!! Words cannot express how unbelievable proud I am of my husband. Not only did he totally dominate this race he freakin rocked it. He swam in 1 hr 25 min, biked an unbelievable 6 hr 59 min. And honestly I'm not sure what the run time was. But who cares. All I know is he crossed the finish line and I was there to hear them say, "Congratulations, Michael Hancock. You are now an Ironman." And honestly when he came across the finish line he never looked better. He didn't even seem winded or tired. Getting to support and watch him today was one of the most amazing experiences of my life.

I am so proud of you Michael. You inspire me beyond words. You motivate me to be the best I can be and want to take all of my "CANT DO" and turn them into "CAN DO." I admire and respect the way to discover a dream and find a way to make it a reality. That's the one thing you've taught me: If I can dream it. I can do it. I love you so much Michael Page Hancock. You're girls love you and loved being there to watch achieve your dream of becoming an Ironman for the first time! So proud of you.

Ironman is finally here!

2010-06-21T19:50:00.000-07:00

This Sunday I'll be competing in my first Ironman. I've done two 70.3 Ironman Races and multiple sprint/olympic distance triathlons but this will be my first 140.6 race. There is no way I can even describe how i'm feeling and thinking right now. I am so thankful for my wife's support and sacrifice over the past 7 months of my training! There were weeks where I literally trained 15-18 hours....thats a freakin part time job! I swam, biked and ran hundreds of miles in preparation for this race. This is the ultimate test of endurance.

This Thursday my wife, EK, brother, mom and myself will fly to Spokane, WA and then drive over to Coeur d'Alene, ID for the race. I would appreciate prayers for safe travel, good health and restful night sleep this week. I feel prepared on all levels...physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually. I plan to begin the race at 9am CST and finish between 11-12pmCST. You can check to make sure I'm still alive by following me on Sunday at www.ironman.com and my race number is 333.

2.4 mile swim...112 mile bike....26.2 run.

A Step Back in TIme

2010-06-20T15:26:00.000-07:00

was looking through all of Ek's baby pics and thought I'd post some of these. (sigh) man, if feels like just yesterday I was taking these. Time goes by way to fast. They are in random order but hope you enjoy them anyway.

hours old
6 months preggo
6 weeks
9 weeks
6 weeks
5 weeks

Birthday Parties Galore PT 2

2010-06-17T06:32:00.000-07:00

Birthday Parties Galore PT 1

2010-06-17T06:23:00.000-07:00

These are the pics from the birthday party with my family:

Happy Birthday Sweet Elliana!

2010-06-17T06:15:00.001-07:00

Our sweet Elliana Kathleen turned one last Friday!! My how time flies! She has been such the little trooper the first year of here life and is without a doubt one of the most adaptable babies to date. She has a sweet disposition with a very determined personality. She's insanely active and prefers to play rather than watching a movie. Here are some fun facts from over the past year:

-has lived in 3 different states
-has had 3 different pediatricians
-weighs 21 lbs (50%)
-29 inches (60%)
- 90 % for head circumference (large head)
-loves to read
- doesnt' like strangers
-great eater/sleeper/drinker
-been sick once
-slept a total of 3 weeks of her life in her crib/the rest in a pack n play
-Loves her daddy

Overall her personality has been an answer to prayer with the craziness of this year. We are so proud of our little girl! We love you Elliana!

Katee and Tyler's Shower

2010-06-15T07:17:00.000-07:00

I cant believe its less than 50 days until Katee and Tyler get married!! Where does the time go??? I got to spend some time with the two of them a few weekends ago when they had an AWESOME shower in Dallas. And let me tell you the racked up on some gifts!! Cant wait to see the two of them become husband and wife! We love you guys!

Summer Fun

2010-06-14T12:43:00.000-07:00

I know you nearly died of shock when you saw our blog had an update! No I still have not found my camera but my dad has been taking lots of pics for me with his nice one. Hoping to get a new camera next month! Anywho. Charlie and Jo came down for Elliana's bday so we've been having a blast and getting some great shots of the two of them together. They are 6 months apart but the exact same size ironically. I love having them with us!

Bummer

2010-05-27T06:29:00.001-07:00

Yeah so i've lost my camera. So upset. I have no clue where it is. Therefore there are absolutely no pics. Gonna borrow my moms camera and try to get some pics uploaded. Arrrrrrrgh!!!!

Sweetness

2010-05-20T05:59:00.000-07:00

I found this sweet picture of Michael and Elliana. Love it.

Great is Thy Faithfulness

2010-05-18T07:17:00.000-07:00

Title otherwise known as "I-am-the-worst-now-at-updating-my-blog." So it's been awhile. My bad. And to make it worse, this posting will not have pictures although I have TONS to post. I promise I'll make it up to you next week when I get my uploading cord. Anywho. I've lots to update on this posting.

(Sigh) Where to begin. I've decided why I hate drama. Maybe mostly because my life tends to consist of mostly drama. Please dont get me wrong. I'm not complaining what so ever. I love my life and every single detail that it entails.

1)As of May our belongings have been in storage for a year and half in prep to move to the final destination for which Michael would get his Chickfila.
2)We've had a baby. She's spend a total of maybe 10 days in her actual crib that was bought for her nursery. Reality is she's slept most of her life in her pack n play in a room of an undecorated apartment that doubles as the guest room.
3)We've been in Jackson planning for our next move to be to GA in the town that Michael grew up in. We have been told for the last year that Michael was the lead candidate and we had nothing to worry about. As far as they knew Michael would be done in Jackson at the end of May and we'd back together here in GA as a family the beginning of June.
4)Michael and I have been living apart for a 6 weeks because our parents can keep EK when I can't get off work

Well plans change. Unbeknowst to us, at the last minute the Snellville store was awarded to someone else. Honestly it felt like the wind had been knocked out of us. I mean we've been planning this next year and all the details around the fact we'd be living near our families. We always knew there was that possibility that it would happen but we had been told over and over again that store was 99% ours. So many emotions have come up on top of the fact Michael and I are still living apart.

So. Back to the drawing board as they say. This is a season where I feel like there is no direction. I feel like I'm seeking the Lord and He's completely mute. I feel like our faith is being challenged especially because we're having to trust blindly. I think in my heart I'm honestly numb so I"m having to trust the Lord to lay on my heart what it is Im needing to pray and know because I don't even know which way is up right now. I know God is faithful and it's obvious that's not where we need to be because that door was slammed straight up in our face. I know there will come a day when we'll look back and be humbled at the fact the He was so in control and greatful we werent in charge. As my dear friend Ginnys once told me, "God doesnt want gooder, He wants BEST."

First step is we are trying to get me and Elliana back to Jackson ASAP. Still working on the details there. Ive realized the Lord so often speaks to me and encourages me through my friendships. I have some precious ones at that. Some who have mentored me for years and some that have walked throught the fire with me holding my just to watch me come out the other side victoriously. My friend/mentor Becky Henson reminded me the other day, "Never doubt in the dark what was made know in the light." I know God is faithful. In the good times He has shown himself true to that. I have only to look at my daughter and see the evidence of God's faithfulness. God brought to heart a hymn that was sung at our wedding ironically. Its what my heart needed to hear and read. The hymn GREAT IS THY FAITHFULNESS is the the anthem of my life. I don't feel it, but I believe it. And that, honestly, is all I know.

Great is Thy faithfulness, O God my Father;
There is no shadow of turning with Thee;
Thou changest not, Thy compassions, they fail not;
As Thou hast been, Thou forever will be.

Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

Pardon for sin and a peace that endureth
Thine own dear presence to cheer and to guide;
Strength for today and bright hope for tomorrow,
Blessings all mine, with ten thousand beside!

Great is Thy faithfulness!
Great is Thy faithfulness!
Morning by morning new mercies I see.
All I have needed Thy hand hath provided;
Great is Thy faithfulness, Lord, unto me!

every life has a story...

2010-05-16T06:48:00.000-07:00

Every Life Has A Story - Chick-fil-A from Dan T. Cathy on Vimeo.

Funny Girl

2010-04-22T06:38:00.000-07:00

I cant believe EK is 10 1/2 month old. Wow time flies. She's so much fun. Everytime I get to certain "stage" I think to my self it couldnt get any better than this. And then she moves on to the next "stage" and its even better than the last. She is without a doubt one of the most curious and determined babies Ive ever met. She likes to figuire things out on her own without help a lot of times so she's showing that independent side of her. Anywho yesterday before nap time I began to see her pulling her arm out of her sleeve and trying to get her shirt off. I went in there when she woke up and she had accomplished just that. She was a little cranky as well and I just couldnt help myself in getting a picture of her "in distress." Call me a bad mom but it was funny as you can see. Alas, I finally picked her up and all was well. Also her new thing is getting into the fridge. Its hilarious. Check out the pics.

Girls Gone Mild/Girls Weekend 2010

2010-04-21T06:29:00.000-07:00

Aaaaaaah. . . the beach. I think i'm gonna quit work, buy a condo, and live there. Anyone game? Oh wait. Never mind. I just remembered I have a husband and child. Oh yeah. And bills to pay. SCRATCH THAT. Bottom line is I love the beach. Last week all the crazy girls in our family went and stay at a condo on the intracoastal waterway. It was heaven. Although this "vacation" was TOTALLY different with a 10 month old in tow. My aunts, mom, and sister absolutely gave me a break quite a few times but i'm beginning to understand the phrase "moms never get vacations." My sister Johanna and I did get to sneak away for a few hours to the outlet malls down the road which was really nice to have that quality time with her. I miss my sister! Anywho we named this weekend "Girls Gone Mild" being how all we do is stay in our PJ's all day and drink coffee. I know. We are wild. Look out. Here's some pics from this weekend. Enjoy! ( And we went to the beach for a total of 5 minutes because it was so cold. Ek is swaddled in her Aunt Jo's sweatshirt because I was unprepared)

Chick fil a video

2010-04-13T20:15:00.001-07:00

G-E-O-R-G-I-A

2010-04-09T07:17:00.000-07:00

For those of you that are closest to me and Michael, I have a question. ARE YOU TIRED OF TRYING TO KEEP UP WITH US????? Oh. My. Gosh. I have to say if I were my friend I'd be tired of trying to figuire where we're living. Why we're living there. How long will we be living there. (Sigh) I get tired just typing that. Anywho concider this posting an update so that you all can be up to speed. Ready? Set. GO!

Okay. As of Good Friday, Elliana and I have moved to Georgia to live with my parents while Michael is staying in Jackson. We did it for two reasons. The main one being child care for EK. My goal has been to work on two weekends a month but I cant always guarantee that. We also didn't want to put her in daycare not knowing how long we'd be in Jackson. As a result it's difficult for Michael to keep her all weekend by himself since those are his busiest days at CFA. And two to make things easier on our moms (they've been driving once a month to come and keep her from GA to MS). So Michael and I made the decision to just move here so that that won't be an issue. We are hoping to hear about our location some point this month but that's till up in the air. It's been tough being away from him and I know he feels the same. It was especially hard these last two days because EK's been sick. I'm pretty sure its her teething but this was the first time she's had a fever and just been plain sick. The past two night she and I have no had much sleep but I"m happy to say she's more of herself today. Its times like this I really miss him here but I'm glad to know this is only a season. I am so proud of Michael. I hope every woman can be as proud of their husbands as i am of mine. He has such a strong work ethic and always puts his family first before everything. (How he balances it I do not know). I"m so greatful to have a husband that provides so diligently for his family.( And he's easy on the eyes, so that's a double plus). Anyways, I know at some point this blog will have a posting about this season of our life coming to a close but until then I am happy to say that "the Lord will make everything beautiful in HIS time." Ecc 3:11

Lately

2010-03-31T07:02:00.000-07:00

Playng with all my hairbows (mommy stuck this obnoxiously big one in my hair)

Thank you Kaitlin for my ballerina outfit!!
Watching Elmo with George
playing with my teaset in my new PJs from Kaitlin
Just woke up and waiting for Mommy!

Getting into everything is my new favorite thing!

I love to play with my diapers!
organizing my diapers on my music table

As of late we've been pretty busy. Elliana continues to grow and develop more and more each day. She's so much fun! She's into absolutely EVERYTHING and has a very curious personality. She can now turn the pages in her books, give kisses, open up all drawers, and hold her sippy cup all by herself. Ek loves her daddy! In the mornings she'll crawl into the bathroom while he's getting ready for work and just watches him. She loves to watch him shave and brush his teeth. Nighttime is a different story. She's mainly all about mommy at bedtime. Cuddling is a new thing she loves to do which I love! She'll often lay her head on my shoulder randomly during the day when I"m holding her. My best friend Jenn Ferguson recently lent us her daughter Kaitlin's summer clothes so Elliana is going to be SO cute this spring/summer! Thank you "Kaitlin Ferguson Designs" for letting my daughter have the best dressed summer of her life!

Family Day

2010-03-14T19:16:00.001-07:00

Today we decided to sleep in and have a family day. It pretty much consisted of laying around and not getting ready until 11:30 then heading out to lunch and then the park. Praise Jesus, Elliana has now gone down to 2 naps a day and 3 bottles plus meals. I feel like I now have a life. Its awesome. No rushing back home for her nap at lunch to make sure she's up for her nap at 4:00. Just one at 830 and one at 2:30. Love. It. Anywho. We had a beautiful day to go to the park. I now understand the importance of "play clothes" and "non play clothes". Her leggings got a little ruined (hence why I only spent $4 on them) due to the sand but it was worth it. I've realized how important it is to be in shape to keep up with your children. After crawling around with her all day I"m spent. On another note, big shocker, our daughter LOVES to eat sand. Like, would-get-frustrated- when-I-wouldn't-let-her-eat-it kinda love. All in all I love being with my family. I have a beautiful one at that. Life is good!

Big Girl Jammies, Ballerina Swimsuit, Pulling Up!

2010-03-09T12:14:00.000-08:00

EK recently got some new big girl jammies along with her bathing suit for the summer. Oh my gosh she looks so cute in them!!! She's also started pulling up on everything possible. She's a blast to have around. We love to watch her grow!

shoutout to the wife(andrea)

2010-03-07T19:03:00.000-08:00

Starting this week I go into 3 intense months of training. Training for an ironman is no joke...people die in these races. You must be ready on all levels...physically, emotionally and spiritually. Training basically becomes a part time job!!! For example, here is my workout schedule this week:
Monday - REST/RECOVER
TUESDAY - 40min run/60min weights
WEDNESDAY - 2500m swim
THURSDAY - 40min run/60 min bike
FRIDAY - 2500m swim
SATURDAY - 2000mswim/4 hour bike/2mile run
SUNDAY - 2 hour run
TOTAL TIME - 12.5 hours

BOTTOM LINE:
THIS WOULD NOT BE POSSIBLE WITHOUT THE INCREDIBLE SUPPORT FROM MY WIFE. She puts up with so much behind the scenes - my 5am alarm clock, my obnoxiously loud bike trainer, all my sweaty clothes, my nasty feet blisters....i will cross the finish line on June 25 because of her.

Thank you babe for your endless support and endless encouragement! It would not happen without you! You've sacrificed so much to make this happen. I love you and cant wait to see you, EK and my family at the finish line!

Check out this video:

Ladies and Gentlemen. We are now MOBILE!!

2010-03-01T12:10:00.001-08:00

Today I looked at the spot where I'd left EK and the spot was empty (she was where I could see her of course until she moved). Until that moment she was crawling but for the most part would stay where you put her. Now I set her down and she's gone! She's now discovered electric plug outlets, cords, and everything unsafe for her to pull up on. Yes we have "babyproofed" the place thanks to my awesome mother in law (she helps me do so many things that get put off until last minute). Elli Kate loves to pull EVERYTHING out of ANYTHING; her diaper bag, her diaper caddy, my suitcase, etc. I love watching her curiousity although I am now exposing her to word "No" and the slight change of tone in my voice when I say it. This week she cut two new teeth on the bottom and they are so cute!! Her favorite song is "This Little Light of Mine" especially the verse that says "wont let Satan (mommy blows on Eks face) it out". As of late she loves going to the zoo with Daddy especially to see the monkeys. Month number 8 was spent with some intense separation anxiety on her part which was tough on all of us. But all in all she has a very sweet countenance (I say that as I'm listening to her scream for not wanting to nap at the moment). But really she has such a sweet heart and love for life. We love our baby girl! Also I need to get a better camera because as you can see her eyes are closed in alot of the pictures. My camera takes too long to take the pics. Oh well.

Valentines Day- What a difference a year makes

2010-02-14T14:00:00.000-08:00

Here's some pics of last years Valentines Day and this year's Valentines Day. What a difference a year makes! Love having a family!

Mommy and EK 6 months along
Date night with hubby
Me and EK 8 months along
Family pic before church

Elliana and her first snow experience

2010-02-12T14:50:00.000-08:00

EK Crawls for the first time

2010-02-10T14:41:00.001-08:00

Sweet Moments and I think Teething

2010-02-08T16:16:00.000-08:00

(SIGH) What a day. I love being a mother. No matter what challenges come with that title I'm ready to take them for it means being Elliana's mommy. But today was tiring. I needed God to encourage me and help me remember my love and passion for motherhood. He did. Ever so sweetly.

RECAP: I can only assume EK is teething for that's the only thing that remains after I've ruled everything else out. She's very fussy and has been the last 5 days. She only wants me pretty much at all times making harder for Michael to help and give me a break. She's frustrated because she wants to crawl and can't figuire it out. She wants to sit in my lap at all times but as soon as she gets IN my lap she wants down again until she realizes when she gets down she wants to be in my lap once more (a vicious cycle). Today she was so tired she couldn't nap and screamed for about 45 mins in her crib until I finally got her. I had taken her temp, checked her ears for ear infection, gave her tylenol, and even layed down with her but nothing worked. It's so hard not knowing what your baby needs. She finally let Michael give her dinner and change her clothes. I put her down 45 minutes before bedtime and praying I don't regret it at 3:00 am. So to recap, today I felt so unequipped as a mother.

SWEETNESS: Holding her and singing her so sleep tonight I began singing ELLIANA'S SONG to her. Itd been awhile since I sang it to her but tonight I did. I looked at her and began singing, "Baby woman so tiny in stature now, but your heart is a treasure. Little princess come follow behind me now. I am reaching for you. Elliana, God has answered my prayers. Elliana, God will conquer my fears. To mother a daughter, to look you in the eye. To know that I did everything to walk with you in life. To give you to Jesus that He would impart the wisdom that I'm longing for to mother your heart. Elliana, God has answered my prayer." I started crying. In singing that I realized God was reminding of Elliana's story and what a miracle she is. Along with this miracle God has promised to impart to me the wisdom I need to mother her heart. He'll give wisdom I need no matter how small the circumstance. Even something as simple as teething. That's so cool. I love that God cares about teething. Period.

Curious George goes to a Tea (Coffee) Party

2010-02-02T07:04:00.000-08:00

As of yesterday we have a new addition to our family. A little monkey named Curious George now graces the Hancock household. Michael's Aunt Malaura out in CA sent EK a fun care package with lots of goodies and books. We love care packages from Aunt Malaura. Not only is she funny and a blast to be around but Malaura is also a kindergarten teacher and has given EK the BEST books and stuffed animals. (My favorite is HOOWAY FOR WODNEY WAT....a book about a rat with a speech impediment). Anywho back to George. EK has been literally spazzing out everytime she sees him. (Did I mention he's a puppet too? Even cooler) So this morning we woke up and Ek and I had our morning coffee together and decided to let George join us. .... even if he was a boy. Here are some pics from our Tea (coffee) party with George.

Putting George in his designated spot
Lovin on George
Sampling the "treats"
Trying to figuire out how to set the table
Thinking Mommy is the coolest cause she lets EK have "treats" at 7am even if they are pretend

North Carolina Part Dos

2010-01-29T17:53:00.000-08:00

North Carolina! Pt 1

2010-01-29T17:15:00.000-08:00

Elli Kate and I made a trip out to Raleigh to see Jenn, Jason, Kaitlin, and meet HUDSON! We had so much fun. Amazingly Jenn and I had some great moments of catching up despite a two year old, a 7 month old, and a 3 1/2 month old. It was also great seeing them all interact with one another. EK LOVED Hudson and absolutely idolized Kaitlin. One thing I really enjoyed was getting some quality time with Kaitlin and finally becoming her buddy. She and I had fun painting, reading, and watching CARS while EK napped. Oh, and I can now translate the dialogue of a two year old. Here goes: "eww-ee"= dirty diaper, "Eee-co-gee" = Elli Kate, "Oh-hay"= OK, "I uh ewe eeeeya"=I love you Aunt Rea (my fav), "I dot ewe"= "I got you" meaning pick me up, "ish-eeeee"= fishies, "Huddy"= Hudson. Husdon by the way is one of the sweetest babies. He has such a sweet disposition and is so content. Great times were had but we did miss you Allison!!

Jenn and Hudson
Me and my little sidekick
EK and Hudson
Aunt Jenn and EK

Watchin Elmo with Kaitlin
Ek hanging with Kaitlin
Taking a bath with Hudson

She loves to drink the bathwater

Bathtime fun
"Huddy" and Kaitlin

the kiddos

Lately

2010-01-22T10:39:00.000-08:00

Here are some recent pics of EK. She's very curious these days and really wants to crawl, but still figuiring it out. Enjoy!

Reality Hits

2010-01-20T14:48:00.000-08:00

Since January 1 I feel like I've hit the ground running. The first two weeks were spent dreading going back to work and prepping things for when I went back this past weekend. I've been a stay at home mom for 7 months now and have realized more and more I am a woman that needs a part time job to stay balanced. It was hard coming to that realization because I felt guilty for wanting/needing that. But I have already seen a difference in my parenting and interaction with Ek with just having a few days away for just me. Leaving her was absolutely aweful but I managed not to cry somehow. During the 3 days I was gone i felt like a piece of my heart was missing, literally. I realized she has been with me constantly now for the last 17 months (that's including pregnancy) so being away from her was a big adjustment. But being back with her once I was home felt like I was complete again. I love that feeling.

After being at home for a day I feel like a chicken with my head cut off. I have a sinus infection and EK was due for her second round of shots today so she AND I were in the DR's office today getting shots. I never realized how constant housework is and that at some moments I've forgotten I have to go to the bathroom. And get this. I FORGOT TO EAT BREAKFAST THIS MORNING. I know. Shut up.

Anywho. Being away makes me appreciated being a mommy more and has really challenged me to step it up. I love my life and wouldn't change it for the world!

Ironman

2010-01-17T09:11:00.000-08:00

It's official...offseason is over. It was so nice to take it easy for a while...workout's were light and I didn't really have to watch what I was eating/drinking 247. BUT, Training is in full swing now as I prepare for this ironman race on June 25. 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike, 26 mile run. I've grown to love these endurance races. It pushes my body, both physically and mentally, to places I've never been before. I've hired a coach to help prepare me. He's definitely worth the investment so I don't die! We are currently in the base training phase so it's is pretty light and manageable. So far i've swam 14 miles, biked 281 and ran 54.

Finally, Just gotta give a shout out to my wife and daughter who have to put up with all the training I do! I can't wait to cross the finish line and see my wife, daughter and parents there waiting! It's gonna be worth it all!

7 month update

2010-01-11T06:53:00.001-08:00

Well its January 11th and our baby girl turns 7 months old today. My how she's grown and changed so fast these past few months so lets recap shall we?

- great sleeper at night, hates napping in the day for fear of missing out on something. I'm good if I get an hour TOTAL out of her during the day for naps

-THE GIRL CAN EAT! I never worry if she's not hungry at lunch cause I know she'll make up for it at some point during the day.

-Looks like her daddy, loves her daddy time, loves laughin at her daddy..

-only wants her mommy when she's tired or sick

-had her first cold in December with a bad cough to which I had to hold her all night so she wouldn't cough

-went from 86% percentile to 97% in height in two months predicting to be very tall

-born to be a future flight attendant: 6 flights and 2-3 road trips under her belt thus far

-very laid back and loves to observe and watch before making a decision

-gets mad if she cant do something the first time (I swear she would walk if she could)

-loves Elmo

-loves trying new things and adjusts well to change

I go back to work this weekend for the first time in 8 months so say a prayer for all of us if you think about it. My mom is coming here to keep EK so i'm so glad about that. I'm really excited yet really emotional about the whole thing. But it'll be a good thing for me in end. I'm sure therell be many more moments of change in the future to adjust to so this is just the start!

Psalty the Singing Songbook and Tea Parties

2010-01-09T12:54:00.000-08:00

After 3 weeks of family and friends rotating in and out of our home we have finally settle back into a normal routine again. Ek turns 7 months on monday which I still can't believe. As of lately she loves to play with her toys especially her Elmo phone she got from her Uncle Jordan (J J) and her talking purse and teaset. She recently got PSALTY THE SINGING SONGBOOK dvds which Michael and I love cause we grew up on them! And wow can we say early 80's????? The outfits of those kids are hilarious. Anywho here are some recent pictures and yes she is STILL wearing her Christmas pajamas even though its January.

Happy New Year with Katee & Tyler

2010-01-03T12:29:00.000-08:00

Michael, Ek, and I were so excited that Katee and Tyler (and Daphnee) came to Jackson to see us. This newly engaged couple drove from Dallas on the 30th to hang with us until today. We had so much fun! Tyler and Michael enjoyed work outs in the mornings while Katee, Daphnee (her maltipoo), and I slept in and drank coffee. Elli Kate loved getting to see her Aunt Kate and Uncle "Joban" and absolutely loved Daphnee! We've noticed whenever she's around dogs she loves them. Many times she would just sit and laugh as Daphnee ran by her. Elli Kate and I accompanied Katee to Davids Bridal so she could try on the wedding dress she bought so I could see it on her. I LOVE IT!!! SHe's going to make a beautiful bride. We were sad to see them go but enjoyed our time with them.

Christmas Time

2009-12-30T07:41:00.000-08:00

Elli Kate's first Christmas was so much fun. We had a great time with family and also just the three of us. Christmas morning we got up and did our Christmas with EK (and somehow her arm came out of her sleeve of her pjs.) Daddy got her a special surprise gift of a car dvd player so when she travels she can watch movies (he does it right!). I will say the girl is set on toys to last her a lifetime! One gift Michael and I gave her was a talking teaset that teaches manners like "please" and "thank you". She and I had fun having our first tea party together the other day. Michael's mom and dad and brother drove in the day after Christmas and did Christmas with us. We loved having them here. All in all it was a great time and I'm so greatful for my new family of three!

Christmas Eve

2009-12-25T18:40:00.001-08:00

Last night we got the chance to spend Christmas Eve with our good friends here in Jackson, Tara and Keys Hayes. They invitedus over for Christmas Eve Dinner and we had a blast! They have such a beautiful home and It was a great time of fellowship just enjoying some good food and company. Tara was kind enough to take some family pics of us by the christmas tree. Next time we'll have to get them in the picture too. Thank you Tara and Keys for making us feel so welcome!

Black and white

2009-12-22T11:05:00.000-08:00

I know we're biased but I think we have a beautiful daughter. She's so much fun! Since she's hit that 6 month mark she has done so many new things. She can almost sit up on her own and loves to smile and laugh. We have noticed her personality is very "black and white" as they say. Meaning there are no shades of gray when it comes to her. One moment she'll be playing as happy as can be then the next second she's screaming because its mealtime or naptime (no really. its bad. And by the way she gets this from Michael). There is definitely no in between. She has never taken a pacifier but as of late I've been giving her one to gnaw on because of her teething. Although she's never sucked on it she knows she always gets it at bed/nap time. Today I was changing her diaper and there was a pacifier that had dropped next to her. She grabbed it then started to put it in her then out of the blue she started screaming. I then realized she thought she was going down for a nap since she had put the pacie in her mouth. That amazed me she knows to associate the two already. And speaking of naps, those are quite a challenge. We've decided she doesnt like to miss out on anything. She's quite the social butterfly.

Happy Half Birthday EK!!

2009-12-15T15:36:00.000-08:00

Elli Kate turned 6 months on December 11th. Wow when they said it goes by fast they werent kidding. I can't believe how much she's changed. She went to the DR today for her checkup and is officially tall. She jumped from the 86th percentile in length to the 97th percentile in 2 months. As far as weight goes she now weighs 17 lbs and loves to eat! I've honestly never had a problem with her eating habits what so ever. Michael and I decided to go ahead and give her the H1N1 vaccination after doing some research as well as the flu shot. I'm glad we did that cause I feel a little better now that she's had it. She can sit up pretty well on her own, sits in a highchair to eat her meals, and loves to laugh! She loves her daddy to tuck her in at night, her blankie to fall asleep and her mommy when she's upset. She's an absolute joy! Here are some pics from the past 6 months.

Total Daddy's Girl

2009-12-08T14:22:00.000-08:00

Today Michael decided to stay home and work instead of going to the store which we totally loved! Elli Kate was all about him today. All day she never took her eyes off of him. Anytime he walked into the room she just watch him and what he was doing. Any time he looked at her and and talked to her, her eyes just lit up and a huge smile spread across her face. One time Michael was holding her and she layed her head on his shoulder and cuddled with him. (sidenote: She NEVER does that with me!) Got a quick snapshot of it. So cute.

Baby Its Cold Outside

2009-12-08T14:12:00.000-08:00

Check out some pics of EK all bundled up for the winter. I do realize all the pink clashes but it was more about keeping warm than style at the time. Enjoy!

Elli Kate's first snow

2009-12-04T19:46:00.000-08:00

Tonight it started snowing here in Jackson. I guess we're getting that "winter storm" that hit Houston. This is so much fun! I went to the grocery store tonight about 7pm and came out and it was snowing pretty hard. I got home and of course Michael and I had to wake up Elli kate cause this was her first snow. She kept staring at it confused or maybe it was the fact she was half asleep and cold. Hmm. All in all it was a fun family memory.

Just for Fun

2009-12-01T06:59:00.001-08:00

Grabbin Daddy's face

Rockin Mommy's UGA hat

Can you handle these eyes??

Go DAWGS!

Merry Thanksgiving

2009-11-26T13:15:00.000-08:00

Happy Thanksgiving!! Hope you all have had a great holidays. Elli Kate has been so much fun these past few days. Lets see she sat in the stroller with out her carseat, sat in her new carseat like a big girl, drank from a sippy cup, ate peas and sweet potatoes, and jumped in her bouncy seat, oh and met Santa for the first time! For thanksgiving we've had Michael's family here and went to Cracker Barrel for thanksgiving lunch. It was so good!!! Can't wait to sleep of some of this turkey now. (PS thanks Aunt Jenn for EK's super cute Thanksgiving onesy!)

Mornings with Daddy. Laundry with Mommy

2009-11-24T06:56:00.000-08:00

Recently Elli Kate loves to get in bed with us in the mornings when we've all woken up. Especially with her daddy. Michael's always been great at getting her up and feeding her to give me a few extra minutes to sleep. They have a special routine in the mornings and at night. The night one being he goes and picks her up when she's asleep after he gets home from work to kiss her goodnight. To this she wakes up gives him a smile and goes right back to sleep. (I threatened his life if he woke her up and she didn't go back to sleep. So far he's stayed alive). Anywho she sat down yesterday with me and folded about six loads of laundry with me (can you find her??). She's so much fun. LOVES to eat and gets excited when she sees her food. She's also now sitting in her stroller without her carseat and loves it. What a big girl.

Another morning person in the family. Mommy is NOT a morning person.

Helping daddy check his emails

Big girl in my stroller!

Can you find me?

Fear of the Unknown-I needed this

2009-11-23T14:13:00.000-08:00

I'm sure everyone of yall has been in this place i've been in. The place of not knowing. For me its not knowing where i'll be living. Not knowing when we will move if we don't live in jackson. Not knowing what my belongings looking like cause they've been in storage since February. Not knowing who will be taking care of our daughter when I go back to work. Not knowing how i'm going to do away from Elli Kate when I'm back at work. Not knowing how she'll adjust having someone else take care of her. Not knowing. Not knowing. Not knowing. This is so hard for me because I"m a planner. And trust me I have all the scriptures down about how I should trust and believe the Lord to provide. And YES I do know this is a teachable moment for me. But sometimes it goes deeper than just knowing and believing. Sometimes you just need encouragement to get through the not knowing. You need people to tell you you're doing a great job and provide you that extra "umph" to take yourself to that next level of saying "Okay God. I want it your way or not at all." Whether its not knowing what state you'll live in, not knowing how your gonna tell your family a loved one is sick, not knowing how your gonna pay a bills cause you just lost your job, I do know God is my Jehovah Jireh. MY PROVIDER (been camped out on this name this season). He's my all sufficient Provider. Can't tell you how many times i've had the nerve to call God out and ask Him to prove to me He is who He says He is. I've called him out alot, I'll just be honest. And He's done it. Faithfully. Every stinkin time. Every time my faith is worn out and small, God proves to me again and again how capable He is to handle anything I throw out at Him. How could you not love a God like that. My cousin sent me this cause apparently she and I tend to go through the same things at the same time. Love you Ash!
"Then you will know which way to go, since you have never been this way before." Joshua 3:4a (NIV)

Proverbs 31 ministry
Do you have a fear of the unknown? If so, then you know how nerve-racking it can be. Fearing the unknown can cause us to live on pins and needles as we spend precious energy anticipating the worst-case scenario. There are two problems with this type of fear:
1. The future is not here.
2. The future is not ours.

While the future may be out of our hands, it's not out of the hands of an adequate and trustworthy God. When we face a worrisome unknown situation, we can look to Joshua as an example.
It's recorded in the first chapter of Joshua that before Moses died, God passed the baton of leadership to Joshua. The Israelites had been wandering in the desert for 40 years under the guidance of Moses. Now, their journey was almost over. Just beyond the Jordan River was their promised land—the land that God had guaranteed to Abraham and his descendants.
Upon reaching the Jordan River, Joshua and the Israelites set up camp by the stream and awaited God's direction. Much like their meeting with the Red Sea, God had to make a way for them to cross over the river. On the third day, God told the officers to instruct the people that when they saw the Ark of the Covenant (where God's Presence abided) to follow it because they had "never passed this way before" (Joshua 3:4). In essence God was saying, Follow Me and I'll see you through this unknown territory.
That's not all. The people were instructed on how closely they should follow the ark. Without this instruction, the people would have crowded the ark and God wanted every person to be able to see His presence eve r faithfully leading them through the unknown valley. What greater encouragement could they have than this, that the Lord was their God, a God who was with them?
You see, friend, the Lord understands our fear of the unknown. He realizes that you may be in a situation that you've never passed through before and you're afraid. It may be the first time you've been without employment. Maybe you've just been diagnosed with an illness or your child is in rebellion. You've never been down this road before and you don't know which way to go or what to do. God will guide the way.
Joshua's life was unpredictable and full of unknowns much like yours and mine. Yet, he successfully resisted fear by keeping his focus on God rather than the events surrounding him. Just as God guided the Israelites through unknown territory, He will guide you and me too. When we come to a place we've never passed through before, God is always present to help us.
"When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and when you pass through the rivers, they will not sweep over you. When you walk through the fire, you will not be burned; the flames will not set you ablaze. For I am the LORD, your God,the Holy One of Israel, your Savior; (Isaiah 43:2,3b, NIV).
Even though the children of Israel were not told how they would pass over the river, the people went forth in faith. We too can move forward in faith sharing in the promised presence of God leading the way through our unknown circumstances.
Dear Lord, thank You for Your promised presence. It comforts my heart to know that I am not alone. Lead me, Lord, through the unknown in my life. Make Your path clear and I will follow it. In Jesus' Name, Amen.

T
Application Steps:
The Bible calls us to walk by faith not by sight. God doesn't always give us the details we desire.

He does give us Himself. Believing is certainty that He's laid out a pah and He goes before us.

Reflections:
Have you ever run f rom fear? Where and when?

Where did you find comfort from your fear?

How can God's promised presence soothe your fears?

Power Verses:
Psalm 32:8, "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you." (NIV)

Jeremiah 29:11, "'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the Lord, 'plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.'" (NIV)

© 2009 by Micca Campbell. All rights reserved.

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Proverbs 31 Ministries
616-G Matthews-Mint Hill Road, Matthews, NC 28105
877-P31-HOME (877-731-4663)

Rolling OVER!!!

2009-11-19T09:06:00.000-08:00

I know i posted about EK rolling over back in September but she decided to only do that twice and hasnt done it since. Until yesterday! She's been working hard to try and figure it out and has been going non stop since. Wouldn't be surprise if she starts crawling next month!

Morgan

2009-11-14T21:22:00.000-08:00

this is michael. i know im not on here a lot but just felt the need to write out what's taken place today:

Tonight, i was able to reconnect with an old student (morgan) that was in my ministry in Houston. She plays in the Auburn band. We didn't have long to talk but for some reason our short conversation brought a whole new perspective to my life. God is using her in so many cool ways at Auburn. It made me so proud to see and hear all the ways God is working through her life to reach others around her. As she gave me a hug good-bye, tears filled my eyes and I realized for the first time why I did ministry in Texas and continue to do ministry through Chick-fil-A.

If you're in ministry or serving in some form of ministry to others, don't loose heart. Remember Morgan. Remember, it can be hard to see the fruit of your labor when you're in the middle of doing ministry BUT don't give up. It's hard to see sometimes how God is really working BUT don't quit. I can tell you that despite our shortcomings, despite our failures, despite what we see...God is always at work. We just need to keep doing what he's called us to do.

I miss those kids that graduated with Morgan. They were such a special group of students. I can't wait to see them graduate college, get married, start a career, start a family and see all the ways that God is going to use them.

Morgan, thank you. Thank you for your faithfulness to the Lord. Thank you for being a light in a dark world. Thank you for standing firm on the truths of God's word. Thank you for allowing God to use you at Auburn.

chick fil a video

2009-11-13T19:35:00.000-08:00

Time in GA/Houston

2009-11-10T16:24:00.000-08:00

Ek and I traveled to GA and then to Houston these past few weeks. We got to see grandparents, great-grandparents, cousins, and aunts while we were in GA. It was so great getting to see them even if it was for a short time. And as you can see EK was a Chickfila cow for Halloween. In houston we had a BLAST!!! Oh how I miss being there. I mainly hung out with Lee and Ginny for the most part. Lee and i spent alot of time watching THE NANNY, HANNA MONTANA, and letting our girls hang out (Ana is 14 months). Ginny and I drank a TON of coffee and enjoyed some fun trips to Home Goods. I miss you girls already! EK also got to see her Aunt Becky on Saturday which we always love. I miss my friends so much! God has blessed me so much by giving me such great friends.

EK is 5 months old!

2009-11-10T08:09:00.000-08:00

As of tomorrow Elli Kate will be 5 months old. She's growing up and and changing everyday. Its so much fun to watch her learn and try new things. She has only rolled over twice and that was back in Sept. Part of me wonders if she'll crawl before she decides to roll over again. I started her on rice cereal which she loves and gonna attempt baby food tomorrow to see if she likes it. I had been going by the motto "she'll quit eating when she's full" but the girl will eat whatever, whenever. So Ive been experimenting with different feeding techniques to keep her full but not overfeed her. She goes to bed around 7:00 and wakes up at 6:30ish and usually plays in the crib until 7:00. She's a seasoned traveler having made 3 round trip flights and 3 road trips and does great on the road! We love our little angel and can't wait to see more things she can do!

So Blessed

2009-10-23T07:02:00.000-07:00

TEST ME IN THIS," SAYS THE LORD ALMIGHTY, "AND SEE IF I WILL NOT THROW OPEN THE FLOODGATES OF HEAVEN AND POUR OUT SO MUCH BLESSING THAT YOU WILL NOT HAVE ROOM ENOUGH FOR IT."- MALACHI 3:10

Oh how I love my life. I am blessed beyond measure. The Lord has poured out so much blessing I feel on my life that some days it feels my heart's not big enough to contain it all. I feel honored that i can actually say that and mean it for there have been seasons of my life this wouldn't have been true. Yesterday Elli Kate woke up from her nap a little fussy so I picked her up, wrapped her in her blanket, and went out on the porch and sat. It had started to rain so she and I just sat there listening to the rain. She rarely just sits in my arms and lays her head on my shoulder but yesterday she did. She layed against my chest with her head on my shoulder just watching the birds and listening to the rain. I quietly began telling her about why Jesus made the rain and how he gives the earth rain exactly what it needs when it needs it and does that for us as well. I wish I could just capture that moment and put it in a bottle and save it forever and ever. Its moments like these that wish she'd stay little forever.

She's growing up so fast it blows me away. She's now 15 lbs, in size 3 diapers, and just started rice cereal. She now has blessed her mom (and daddy cause mom's happier) by sleeping through the night. She loves holding her spoon and toys and loves to kick and splash in her bath at night. She sleeps best when her SING OVER ME cd her Aunt Beck gave her is playing. That cd is magic! She's so much fun. Michael and I have a blessed life and are so greatful for what the Lord has provided.

Road Trip to Oxford

2009-10-22T13:54:00.000-07:00

Michael, Ek and I drove to Oxford, MS on Monday for a family day. Oxford is about 2 hours from Jackson, so we had a great time of being together as a family. We got to see the Ole Miss campus and walked around the town square and shop. What a great day of just doing nothin but being together!

Free to Be a Joyful Mother Pt 2-Pam Thompson

2009-10-22T13:44:00.000-07:00

Free to be a Joyful Mother Pt 2
Understanding versus Condescension

I. Understanding

A. Hebrews 4:15-16 “For we do not have a high priest who is unable to empathize with our weaknesses, but we have one who has been tempted in every way, just as we are—yet he did not sin. Let us then approach God’s throne of grace with confidence, so that we may receive mercy and find grace to help us in our time of need.”

B. “Sumpatheo”~ the Hebrew word for “sympathize” or “empathy,” meaning with them in suffering. We have a God who sympathizes with our weaknesses, so why can’t we understand our children’s weaknesses in the same way.

Genesis 16 tells of Hagar, who has run into the desert to cry after her son Ishmael is mistreated. The angel of the LORD (this one is Jesus) found Hagar and comforted her – Hagar says “You are the God who sees me.”

Whatever is going on in your home, believe that the Lord is present to our situation – He sees what is happening, the hurt or brokenness you are feeling, the frustration with the toddler who just will not sleep, the teenager who will not obey. Be comforted and know that our God sees. In this same way that he tenderly sympathizes with us, we need to strive to sympathize with our kids. Let them know, “I know it must be hard. I get it. What are you thinking about this?” Be their soft place to fall by sympathizing with their mistakes or weaknesses.

II. Condescension

A. 1 Peter 5:2-3 “Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, watching over them—not because you must, but because you are willing as God wants you to be; not pursuing dishonest gain, but eager to serve; not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock.”

B. “Katakurieuo”~ the Hebrew word for “lording it over”
Condescension is the opposite of empathy or sympathy – it means to look down on someone. Pam points out that it is so easy to remind our kids of things they should do or how they should act just because they are “good Christian kids”, when what they really need rather than having mom or dad look down on them for a wrong behavior, is to see those behaviors lived out in our own lives.

III. Reflecting Understanding or Empathy

Empathy is the process of understanding and reflecting your child’s feelings and thoughts. This does not necessarily require pity or a lecture, and definitely does NOT require you to agree or condone their actions. But, it does require you to put your own feelings, reactions, or opinions on hold while you put yourself in your child’s shoes.

Pam's tip: Never act surprised when your kids tell you something because fear of your reaction may keep them from coming to you next time. Let your consequences be the heavy and you are free to be understanding and empathetic.

IV. The Developmental Stages
(in terms of empathy~understand where they are at developmentally)

a. Infant/ Toddler Stage (0-2)
The key to this stage is bonding. Their environment is their reality and any changes in that environment can alter their behavior for good or for bad.

b. Preschooler Stage (2-6)
Children in this stage are trying to figure out ‘Who am I apart from you?’ This is the time when separation anxiety may set in with a child who has ordinarily been secure. Boundaries are important. In this stage, their perception is their reality~make believe or pretend play is a part of this stage. As a parent, understanding these stages can help us empathize with where our children are coming from.

c. Elementary School Stage (6-12) (we will continue here on October 21st)

Free to Be a Joyful Mother-Pam Thompson

2009-10-16T14:27:00.000-07:00

Pam Thompson is an amazing teacher/speaker who goes to Second Baptist Houston. A couple of years ago she'd spoke to the women of our church and called it "Free To Be a Godly Wife." Man did she kick me in the butt. I found this on our women's ministry coordinator's blog at the Katy campus of the notes of her recent talk. Wow. I needed this.

Free To Be A Joyful Mother -- September 30th
This week, Pam Thompson continued with her lesson on "Influence versus Control".
She gave 10 tips God shares with us from Genesis about the "perfect parent".

1. God is THE perfect parent, but look at us -- we still mess up. Give yourself some grace. God's mercies are new every day.

2. God is perfectly relational. Genesis 3:8 "Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day..." God came and walked in our world, He sent his Son to walk in our world - He is perfectly relational. Go to your child's world - get down on the floor and play blocks, eat lunch outside in the fort. God came to our world and our kids need us to go to theirs too!

3. God gave his children responsibilities. Genesis 1:28 "God blessed them and said to them, 'Be fruitful and increase in number; fill the earth and subdue it. Rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that moves on the ground." Our children are never too young to take on some responsibility no matter how small the task.

4. God gives children choices.
a. Genesis 1:29 "The God said, 'I give you every seed bearing plant on the face of the earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food.' ". God created this whole world and gave it all to us to enjoy and care for. He is a YES God - Be a YES parent. Obviously, there are things we have to say no to...but whenever possible say YES. YES to painting and play-doh, yes to building a fort with the freshly washed sheets, YES to helping make dinner or dessert, YES to extra sprinkles on the cupcake. Don't miss those opportunities to be a YES mom as God is to us with the world He created.

b. God gives his children opportunities to make decisions. Genesis 2:9, 16-17 "The Lord God made all kinds of trees grow out of the ground...and the Lord God commanded the man 'You are free to eat from any tree in the garden; but you must not eat from the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, for when you eat of it you will certainly die.' " Give your children opportunities to make decisions - do you want to do your homework now or have a snack and maybe start it in 45 minutes? Do you want to use the red or the blue toothbrush? It accomplishes the same goal, but allows them to feel they have some control over the decision. God gives us choices even though we don't always choose as He would.

5. God sets boundaries. Genesis 2:9, 16-17 Notice in the verse above, God set the boundary by saying "do not eat of the tree of knowledge of good and evil". However, its interesting to note that God didn't hoist the tree up out of their way to be sure they couldn't eat of it.

6. Let your children fail and stay calm. Genesis 3:8-9 "Then the man and his wife heard the sound of the Lord God as he was walking in the garden in the cool of the day, and they hid from the Lord God among the trees of the garden. But the Lord God called to the man, 'Where are you?'. God is totally omniscient and omnipresent - he knew that his children were about to disobey and yet he didn't swoop in and rescue them. He allowed them to fail. After Adam and Eve had eaten of the tree, God didn't come storming in throwing out threats and punishments. He casually walked through the garden asking "Where are you?" God knew right where they were - but he remained calm asking "where are you? hows it going here?"

7. When mistakes are made, show empathy. Again, God came in with a gentle hand knowing the consequences they were about to receive would be hard.

8. Give consequences, not a lecture. God gave the ultimate TIME-OUT! He took Adam and Eve out of the garden for them never to return. He didn't lecture them, just lovingly pushed forward with firm consequences.

9. Allow them to have that same task in which they made a bad choice--over again. Often times, our kids will rise to the occasion when given the opportunity to have a "do over".

10. Encourage them to be dependent on God and independent of mom and dad. Genesis 2:24 "For this reason a man will leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they will become one flesh."

Lady at the Pediatricians Office part 2

2009-10-14T09:23:00.000-07:00

I think you all remember my blog posting about the first time Michael and I took EK to the pediatricians office. The one where that lady yelled at us for not having our newborn in the waiting room?? Yeah that one. I decided today her cousin lives in MS and goes to my pediatrician here. First off I'd like to say how much I respect parents who consider other parents and the way they concider their personal space. For example yesterday Ek and I went to Walmart for groceries and were checking out. A little boy named Jonah (about 4 yrs) and his mom were behind us. Jonah came up to me and asked me about EK and was wanting to touch her and look at her. His mom quickly said, "Jonah you can look but don't touch her hands and face, please." I thought that was nice and thoughtful. I told Jonah and his mom he was more than welcome to check her out if he would like (cause she's pretty gosh darn cute if I do say so myself) and Jonah himself was pretty cool. I mean the kid was dressing up as his "Binkey" (his blanket) for Halloween. How creative is that? Kudos to the responsible, considerate mom.

Now to today. Elli Kate went to the DR for her 4 month checkup and shots. I walk in with EK in the stroller to the waiting room where there is a mom with a 7 year old and a 2 year old. We were the only people in there so we sit down and her two year old walks up to me and just stares at me. "Well hi there what's your name?" I say. No response. Okay she's shy that's cool. She then looks at EK and starts smiling (like her already cause she likes my kid and EK WAS wearing her leopard turtleneck with a mini skirt. Can you handle the cuteness???). But as we keep going she stands there and starts putting her hands all over Elli Kate's face, hands, poking her face and tugging her hair. Im thinking the mother is going to intervene at some point but doesn't so I say. "Sweetie you have to be gentle when you touch her cause she's still pretty small." No response and keeps doing it. Then this little girl figuires out she can CLIMB MY stroller and does so and then starts shaking it. WHAT. THE. HECK????? A little more sterner I say, "Sweetheart you can't climb on Elli Kate's stroller and shake it. (a little louder than normal) YOU COULD GET HURT IF YOU CONTINUE TO CLIME ON ELLI KATES STROLLER AND SHAKE IT." I up the volume a little more hoping again the mother will take a hint. Not so much. I pulled that kid off four times at the last time she held on and wouldn't let go. Honestly I was concerned for her safety and by this point she was getting really annoying. So I ask her mom (whose been engrossed in magazine) "Is this your daughter?" She tells me yes then goes back to the magazine. I was about to tell suggest her daughter for future reference could get hurt by climbing on strollers and shaking them when the nurse called her back. THANK. GOD. I don't get it. There's a difference between curiosity and just plain youre-not-supposed-to-do-that. Still a little blown away by that. Hopefully her six month will be less eventful.

multiple Updates pt 4/ Dallas Tri

2009-10-12T10:09:00.000-07:00

Michael completed his ninth triathlon in Dallas on Sunday in preparation for his Iron Man in June 2010. Elli Kate and I flew from Tulsa to Dallas and met Michael, Katee, Tyler, Ian, and Bethany for the triathlon there. We had so much fun and Elli Kate got to see her Daddy race for the second time. It was rainy and cold to say the least and poor Michael had to swim in 55 degree water. He's a total stud finishing in 2hrs 48min beating his time from last year. We have now made it back to Mississippi having driven 7 hours in the rain last night and are loving being at home now! Elli Kate is exhausted and has now been napping for 2 and a half hours! We may never leave again. (Yeah right).

Multiple Updates pt 3/ Oklahoma #2

2009-10-12T10:00:00.000-07:00

Multiple Updates pt 2/ OKLAHOMA

2009-10-12T09:32:00.000-07:00

Oklahoma was awwwww-some!! We completely wore the kiddos out with the Tulsa State Fair, Pumpkin Patch, Bartlesville Mall, and so much more. Here are some fun pics from our two weeks there.

Multple Update pt 1/ Future Flight Att

2009-10-12T09:25:00.000-07:00

Yes your eyes are not decieving you this is an actual updated blog posting. Elli Kate and I spent two weeks in Oklahoma with family and had a blast! EK FINALLY got pictures while flying on Southwest (even though this was her fifth flight in four months). We had a great flight crew headed to Tulsa one of the flight attendants I actually new which was totally fun. The lady at the ticketing counter in Jackson had a blast taking pics with Elli Kate for her baby book. I think she just might be a sky godess just like mommy when she grows up.

Pumkin Patch Pics

2009-10-06T06:03:00.000-07:00

As promised here are some pics from the Pumpkin Patch we took Charlie and EK to. Sheri (Jo's mom in law) took these and they turned out awesome! And all you aunts and grandparents out there wanting prints of these dont worry we got u covered. Anywho have you ever tried to get a 10 month old and a 4 month old to sit still for a pose??? A little challenging in the fact EK cant sit up on her own so we had to put pumkins behind her to prop her up and she kept falling to the side. Then there's charlie whose all boy wanting to eat the dirt, climb the pumkins, and wondering who the heck is this person that keeps sitting beside him. All in all we had some great fun. I love that our kids are so close together!

quick post

2009-10-05T07:36:00.000-07:00

Sorry about the lack of posting. Me and EK have been in Bartlesville hangin with her cousin and aunt and uncle. Of course we've taken lots of pics but I'm having trouble uploading them to the computer. Once we get them figuired out we'll post them. We've been pretty active here since our arrival. Jo, Charlie, Ek, and me went to a huge consignment event to which I got EK lots of winter clothes for the total of $32. Even got her a polo dress for $2. We've been to the Pumpkin Patch and the Tulsa State Fair. We have lots of pics to show so stay tuned!

ROLLING OVER!!!

2009-09-25T13:16:00.001-07:00

This morning I noticed EK trying to roll over. Everytime I layed her down she'd turn onto her left side and almost roll over. This afternoon she kept working on it and SHE DID IT!! Im so proud of her. It really only took her two times to figuire it out. She's a smart one.

2009-09-22T17:56:00.000-07:00

So I'm looking at these pictures of me and my daughter and I notice that, in my opinion, we look nothing alike. I think I see some simliarities in the eye but for the most part she's ALLLLLL Michael. Huh. I'm pretty sure I did some pretty intense baking of this "bun" when I had her in the oven. I'm just sayin.

Apartment Life

2009-09-22T17:45:00.000-07:00

This blog is for my sweet friend Lee Appel! Lee here is our apartment. Although we miss Houston tons this has been a great set up here in Jackson MS. The apt is 2 bdrm/2 bthrm with a BIG livingroom. It also came fully furnished with everything included! We couldn't ask for more!

2009-09-19T07:17:00.000-07:00

I don't know about you, but music really speaks to me. Whether its a great worship song or a sappy country song I love the way music puts into words so much of what I want to say yet cant express. The other day I was running with EK (I know. Brace yourselves. I actually hate running but I signed up for a marathon and have no clue why i did that. . sorry ADD moment) and I started just thinking about her. I got overwhelmed in my heart about how michael and will raise her to be a godly woman in a world that demotes that. This "sexed up" society that teaches complacency and tolerance of so many lies. How will I mother a daughter and handle the fact I'll probably have to explain to her what "gay" is way before I ever learned about it as a kid. How will I teach her to make good decisions, to let her know her identity is in the Lord and not in others (boys mainly). "Lord give me wisdom!" I said as I'm running. "Show us how to raise her to be the woman you've made her to be." As I was running this song came on my ipod that Michael and I love. Actually we sing it to EK alot. More like sing one line of it and make up the rest ourselves. I just wish every little girl and every little woman would understand how much the Lord desires to be our Everything. I'm STILL learning this. I don't have to compare myself to Hollywood, knowing I am confident in who the Lord made me (still struggling with that one). Go download this one. Its a keeper.

MORE BEAUTIFUL YOU by Jonny Diaz

Little girl fourteen flipping through a magazine
Says she wants to look that way
But her hair isn’t straight her body isn’t fake
And she’s always felt overweight

Well little girl fourteen I wish that you could see
That beauty is within your heart
And you were made with such care your skin your body and your hair
Are perfect just the way they are

There could never be a more beautiful you
Don’t buy the lies disguises and hoops they make you jump through
You were made to fill a purpose that only you could do
So there could never be a more beautiful you

Little girl twenty-one the things that you’ve already done
Anything to get ahead
And you say you’ve got a man but he’s got another plan
Only wants what you will do instead

Well little girl twenty-one you never thought that this would come
You starve yourself to play the part
But I can promise you there’s a man whose love is true
And he’ll treat you like the jewel you are

There could never be a more beautiful you
Don’t buy the lies disguises and hoops they make you jump through
You were made to fill a purpose that only you could do
So there could never be a more beautiful you

So turn around you’re not too far
To back away be who you are
To change your path go another way
It’s not too late you can be saved
If you feel depressed with past regrets
The shameful nights hope to forget
Can disappear they can all be washed away
By the one who’s strong can right your wrongs
Can rid your fears dry all your tears
And change the way you look at this big world
He will take your dark distorted view
And with His light He will show you truth
And again you’ll see through the eyes of a little girl

Shout out to JENN

2009-09-16T04:42:00.000-07:00

So me and Jenn Ferguson have been best friends since the 8th grade. Ooooh the memories we have together. From 8th grade dances to being pregnant at the same time (Hudson and EK are 3 months apart) I just wanted to say "Jenn, you rock!! Only a few more days to go!" Here's our preggy pics. Jenn looks awesome. Here's me and her at 38 and a half weeks.

Just for fun

2009-09-15T04:21:00.000-07:00

EK's been getting on a great schedule since being in Jackson. Could it be it's because I'm not taking her all over the continental US?? For the most part here's our day:
7:00 wakeup and play on floor gym/read with mommy/eat breakfast
8:00 Nap time!
9:15 tummy time watch cartoons some/ play with mommy/go for a walk/ get dressed
10:30 Nap time!!
11:30 Lunchtime/run some errands so mommy doesn't go stir crazy
1:00 NAPTIME
2:15 playtime
3:45-Naptime/afternoon snack
4:45- playtime get ready to greet daddy when he gets home
6:00-bathtime/cuddletime with Daddy/dinnertime
7:00-bedtime

Did ya get all that?? Of course this is not followed to the T all the time but you get the idea. It s great to finally know how many naps she needs during the day and get her on a sleeping schedule. For awhile there it was a little rough cause the poor thing didn't know where she'd be sleeping from night to night. I think I counted about 7 different cribs and pack n plays she's been in the first 12 weeks. Sheeeesh. She's a stud. Anywho she'll play on her floor gym for a long time sometimes until its nap time and then will fall asleep right there on the mat. Got a picture of the last time she did this.

Thus it begins . . .

2009-09-13T13:31:00.000-07:00

Letting go stinks. As a parent you've all gone through this at each stage your kids go through.

So today Michael and I ventured out to Ridgeland MS and tried a church called Pinelake. We were really excited one cause it was recommended by our friends Matt and Allison Barton who have friends that live here and go to one of the campuses. This is the first time we have been to church as a family since EK was born thus the decision of what to do with her once we got there. Do we take her to the service and chance it if she has a meltdown? Do we go reeeeeally crazy and take a huge step and take her to the nursery? (which honestly why is this such a big deal???) Or do we just turn around and just go back home so we don't have to walk in a church where we don't know a single person. The latter crossed my mind a couple times. Before church started we walk into the auditorium and of course she starts crying. (Geez. Was kinda hoping she be so content with me she'd never set foot in a nursery, period).

We took her to the nursery needless to say which she seemed to love and have no problem with. Of course as a parent every worst possible scenario plays through your head when you leave. What if they can't get ahold of me? What if the beeper they gave me to contact me messes up? Will she be ok with all those strangers around her? Well i'm proud to say she was fine. Mom was even fine when all was said and done. I was reminded that today was just practice for what's to come later on.

My mom once told me letting go of your children and trusting them into the Lord's hands is one of the hardest things God will ask of you as a parent. No kidding. From leaving your child in the church nursery to leaving them at college for the first time its just hard. I don't know how people parent without the Lord cause I couldn't do it without His wisdom in strength even with something as small as the church nursery. AMEN??? AAAAAAAAy-MEN.

HAPPY 3 MONTHS TO ME!!

2009-09-11T09:02:00.000-07:00

Hello World! I would like to take a time out from tummy time and update yall on the latest of my life. I turned 3 months old today! Seems like just yesterday I was warm and cozy in my mommy's tummy without a care in the world. (SIGH) where does the time go??? I am now smiling a ton! and love to talk when talked to. I can now recognize voices when someone talks to me. And of course I am a very seasoned traveler. Let's see. Been to Georgia, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and everywhere in between. I can sleep and nap in any pack n play or crib you put me in. At two months I began sleeping through the night but recently thought that was boring so I've started waking up at 3 AM just to see how long it takes my mommy to wake up and get me (daddy never hears me. Amazing) I've outgrown all my 0-3 clothes and am now in 3-6 months. I'm loving living in Mississippi but miss all my peeps in Texas. I get to see daddy alot since we live about 10 min from his store so we get to have lots of lunch dates with him. Well I'm off to strengthen my neck muscles at tummy time so I'll have to cut this short. Love you all and see you soon!

GAME DAY G-A STYLE and other pics

2009-09-09T07:04:00.000-07:00

Ok I know. I know. I have been SOOOOOOO bad at getting pictures of EK so here are some. Of course she totally rocked her first Georgia Game Day (although we lost she was still their biggest fan) And I'm not kidding when I say she actually watched the game for you will see her doing so in the pics!

Adios Houston

2009-09-09T06:53:00.000-07:00

Well we did it. We have officially moved from Houston TX to Jackson MS as of this past Sunday (thus the lack of blog posting). The past few weeks have been weeks of fun memories and LOTS of tears. Michael threw me a going away party at LUPES TORTILLA organized by the ultimate party planner Lee Appel. Oh my gosh I was totally surprised and I had so much fun. I then spent last week staying with Ginny Stringfellow (Lee's mom) and pretty much meeting with friends and going to target with Lee. Here are some pics from this past week. (PS. EK did awesome. It's official that this little girl can sleep and nap anywhere you take her...praise Jesus)

Dick and Rick Hoyt - THE EXTRA MILE

2009-09-06T18:24:00.000-07:00

this is michael typing-
most of you know this but the past three months (since elliana was born) we have literally been traveling nonstop. With all this traveling, packing, and moving i haven't been able to maintain the workout and nutrition schedule that i like to have. i find myself making excuse after excuse - im to tired, i need to sleep in, i need to hurry up and get into the office, its just one hamburger at wendys, etc. i end up doing the bare minimum just to get by. the funny thing is so many times in other areas of my life i find myself doing the exact same thing...at home and at work. But what i've learned through all this training and racing is the reward for going the extra mile is always worth it in the end. Going the extra mile is a choice. It's a condition of my heart and mind. I must be willing to make the sacrifice now for the reward that comes later...wether it's for work, for family or for racing. Romans 12:1,2 says- "Therefore, I urge you, brothers, in view of God's mercy, to offer your bodies as living sacrifices, holy and pleasing to God—this is your spiritual act of worship. Do not conform any longer to the pattern of this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind. Then you will be able to test and approve what God's will is—his good, pleasing and perfect will."

So today, It's time to change the way I think. It's time to stop making excuses. it's time to rise above. It's time to go the extra mile. What about you?

WATCH THIS VIDEO....LiveStrong!

SCREAMING BABY = STRESSED OUT DADDY = FORT BEND COUNTY SHERIFF

2009-08-30T19:19:00.000-07:00

Oooooh my life is never boring. Today this one goes down as one of those stories we will forever be telling elli kate at every birthday party she has. "Hey honey you remember that time Elliana was a baby and we were in TX. . . ?"

Today Michael flew into Houston for two days to see us. We picked up Michael at the airport grabbed some lunch and headed to the new outlet malls that are in northwest Houston. EK did so great. Again her napping schedule (or lack there of) was way off again due to our craziness she was a little fussy but content.....if you can even be both at the same time. Anywho we leave the outlet malls after about an hour, figuiring we need to get her back home (AKA my friend Ginny's house where we're staying) to get her her bath, feed her, and put her down for the night. Keep in mind the time it take to get from the outlets is. . oh. . i'd say about 45 mins to an hour. 15 mins into the journey home EK just starts wailing. I mean ya think we were beating the kid. I go into "mom mode" and hop in the back seat to try and entertain her while I figuire out what's making her so mad. And I pull out all the stops to try and keep her from crying. I think a sang opra to the country song that came on, made her froggy toy talk to her, and made those ridiculous faces all parent make to their kids to get them to smile. She was really tired, hot, and cranky to which NOTHING is appeasing her. As she's screaming I can tell Michael is getting a tad bit stressed out himself and tries to "expedite" our journey to Katy. He was so stressed out in fact he missed the turn to Katy ending us up in FULSHEAR TX which is about 20 mins past Katy. And wouldn't ya know it. We were speeding. OOps. Yes, we get pulled it over. The converstion went something like this:

(Cue baby screaming in the background, mom in the backseat trying to remain calm, and dad forgetting where he put his wallet)

OFFICER: Sir, can you tell me why you were speeding??
Michael: Uuuummm sir I have a screaming baby in the back seat I'm trying to get home.
OFFICER: I"m going to need to see you license and registration please.
Michael: Yes sir.....BAAAAAAABE where did I put my wallet???????????? (getting out of the vehicle and begins pulling stuff out on to the road frantically searching for the wallet he just had)
EK: WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Andrea: (ever so calmly) Honey you could check the diaper bag.
MIchael: ITS NOT IN THERE!!! WHERE DID I PUT IT??????
Andrea: (ever, ever so calmly) sweetheart did you put it in your back pocket?
EK: WAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(only about 2-3 min lapses yet feels like hours)
Officer: You know what guys why don't you just head on home and get ur baby settled. I'm gonna let you go on this one. Just slow it down please.
Michael: THANK YOU SIR.

Thank you Elliana for getting us out of that speeding ticket and please disregard your parents for their mass histeria.
*Sidenote* Michael DID find his wallet on the floor as soon as we got to Ginny's house.

Dallas!!!

2009-08-24T13:29:00.000-07:00

So Elli Kate made her first trip to Dallas to see her namesake Katee and of course her Uncle Tyler. We had a blast up there! This was her third flight in 2 and half months of life which is crazy. We got to see Katee's new apartment at DBU and also see Tyler's new office as the assistant director of financial aide (laaa teee daaa). I think one of the best parts was purchasing our SUPER GAME which includes awesome Nintendo games like MARIO BRO, ARCHANOID, and DUCK HUNT. So needless to say we had a game off to see who could win the most round of Super Mario Bros. Ahhhh good times reliving the late 80's. Anyways the time went by way to fast and can't wait to see them again in October!

Moving to Jackson MS

2009-08-23T18:27:00.000-07:00

So honestly Ive known for about a month or so that we're going to move to Mississippi at the end of August but I've been dreading writing this blog and have put it off. WE ARE COMPLETELY EXCITED MICHAEL"S CAREER IN CHICK FIL A IS MOVING FORWARD!!! That's the good part of the whole move. Michael has recieved his interim assignment at a store in Jackson which is the step before his OWN store (which we still don't know where that will be). We've been told we'll be there in Jackson for about 3-4 months or so.

The hard part is we are leaving Houston, which if all my BFF's are reading this right now they too are feeling the finality of us leaving too. I guess that's why I haven't wanted to write this cause it meant we were really moving. It's hard. Honestly there's a knot in my chest right now having to say that. Michael and I moved to Houston TX in 2002 right after we were married and have been here 7 years. Michael and I have put down so many roots here and have honestly grown up here. The friends we've made here are friends for life. Although we were both born and raised in GA we will always concider Houston home. To all those people who are and will always be a huge part of our life THANKYOU for being so stinkin awesome!!

"Charlie-Like" Features

2009-08-23T18:19:00.000-07:00

So everyone has been telling me how much Charlie and EK look so much alike. Which really cracks me up cause all Jo and I hear is how much Charlie looks like Ryan and Elliana looks like Michael. (BTW whats up with the girls doing all the work and the boys gettin all the glory??) Anywho lets compare shall we? I mean their mothers are sisters. I think its just the hair but feel free to share your opinion anyway.

Me and my guys (as written by Elliana Kathleen)

2009-08-14T15:22:00.000-07:00

Hello everyone. My mommy FINALLY let me get on and write something myself for a change.But it's understandable. I mean being 9 weeks old is SOOOOO exhausting! It takes alot to be me (see first picture shown). Anywho just wanted to show yall pics of the most favorite guys in my life. Of course my first and most favorite is my Daddy. He's funny. I let him see me smile for the first time the other day and he was so excited. He likes to talk to me, kiss my face, and tell me how beautiful I am. I gotta say I like the dude. Think I'll keep him around. And of course are my two grandads, POP and PAPA. I got to hang out with them alot when I went to GA. They're both pretty cool. Think we'll keep them around too. Well i better get off the computer now. Mom says I have to go take my nap (she never lets me have fun. (sigh) oh welll.) Love to all, EK

TRI BABY

2009-08-09T17:29:00.000-07:00

Pimpin in my BOB stroller

DADDY'S BIGGEST FAN

The best spectators ever!!

Gettin a little cranky and ready for breakfast

ZOOLANDER pose in the background?????

Mommy and me

Daddy and me

Sooooooo not amused.

WWWEEEEEEE!!!

Soaking wet after going down the water slide

Elliana got to see her daddy compete for the first time today at one of his triathlons. She did so good!!! Poor thing was up at 5:00 am this morning to head up to North Houston with Mommy and Daddy (mommy is either reeeeally supportive or reeeeally crazy) After we cheered Michael across the finish line EK got to experience her first waterpark. Honestly Michael and I had more fun stickin her in the water and seeing her reaction than she did but that's what parenting is all about. And to top it off she even went down the slide!

Ana Appel turns ONE!!

2009-08-09T17:14:00.000-07:00

Our best friends Chris and Lee Appel's baby girl will celebrate her first birthday on August 19th. I can't beleive Ana is this big! She is such a sweet sweet baby. Elliana got to meet her "inherited" best friend for the first time at her birthday party. We love you Ana and Happy Birthday!!

8 weeks

2009-08-05T03:11:00.000-07:00

I cant believe Elliana is already two months old tomorrow. She's such a fun little baby with lots of personality (as much as you can have at two months). Ive never heard a baby cry as loud or as intensely as she does when she needs something. She HATES to have a wet diaper and it doesn't matter if you just changed it 3 minutes ago it has to be changed again if its wet. Who can blame the girl. She tends to get irritated when you try to change her clothes so today I just let her stay in her pj's all day cause honestly I didn't feel like changing her and somedays its good to stay in your pj's until 5pm. On the bright side she is the BEST sleeper at night pretty much since the day she came home but will exhaust herself to sleep during the day fighting her naps, which is probably the reason for such great sleep at night. She actually already skips a feeding at night giving me 5 straight hours of sleep! She has a favorite blanket I got at one of my showers that we've labeled her "diva" blanket since its zebra print and baby pink and she'll stop crying the moment you put it around her. And let me just say that only this blanket works because I tried using other ones and this was the only that worked and soothed her. Wierd huh? But the girl DOES have good taste. Zebra print. Love it.
Praise Jesus the colic was a short phase for the most part and taking her down to 2 ounces every two hours did wonders for her (we are now back up to 3 every 3 hrs). All in all she's pretty black and white about what she needs and wants (got that from her daddy). I'll post a pic later cause i didn't have time to download a pic but I will soon!

Daddy and Me

2009-08-01T18:40:00.001-07:00

BATHTIME!

I hate being cold!!

Daddy squirted a "happy face" on my belly with lotion

Looking in my daddy's eyes

I seriously hate to have my clothes changed

No really I don't like my clothes changed

My favorite time of time of day: MEAL TIME

Sitting pretty in my BUMBO seat or my "BOOM BOOM" seat as my Uncle Tyler says

Michael is such a hands on dad. He loves his baby girl and Elliana loves her daddy. I am so greatful for his help and the heart he has for his family. We love you!

More Pics of our baby girl

2009-07-28T17:53:00.000-07:00

EK is 7 weeks (almost)

2009-07-27T13:36:00.000-07:00

Our sweet Elliana will be seven weeks this Thursday. I can't believe she's almost two month old! I once heard the saying "the days are long but the years (months) are short." She's just changing so much before my eyes. She has recently started smiling which I just love. She's also discovered her thumb and began sucking on it. We went up to 2 1/2 ounces every 3 hours which has seems to be ok with her system. The colic for the most part is better but she definatley has a sensitive stomach for sure. All in all she has been doing great and adjusting to our crazy way of living. We are looking forward to coming back to Houston for a few weeks but are so blessed to have such a great family.

Sweet sweet ALLIO

2009-07-20T17:04:00.000-07:00

Much to my surprise this past weekend my life long friend Allison Barton and her husband Matt were going to be in Gainesville the same time I was! It turns out Matt's parents live only 20 minutes from my parents and the two of them were in town from Baltimore to see family. Allison got to meet Elliana and praise the Lord her colick was doing a little better. We had a fun time catching up and eating some good food at LONGSTREET CAFE. Matt helped me notice something about my daughter I had yet to recognize and that was the fact she had cute little "jelly bean" toes. (They really do look like jelly beans). We loved getting to see the both of yall and will be praying for this coming fall. Love Yall!!

**SIDENOTE** thanks to everyone with all the advice about colic. EK is doing better so we're holding our breath that is continues!