The Brent's

3 Months

2012-02-01T15:58:00.004-05:00

well 3 weeks ago. It has been a whirlwind of a month. Dad in the hospital and not able to pick up the girls = one exhausted momma!

On New Years Eve, Simms slept great for pretty much the first time! And continued until her big sister got her sick. Back to square one we go. A week later she is back to sleeping great and then mommy gets sick. Daddy was out of town so we were in survival mode. Back to square one we go . . .

Love her smile!

For some reason I feel like she is growing a lot fast than Margaret did. She is pretty much wearing 6 month clothes. Today I was watching her spin around in her entertainer and flipping the book. Um what?!?!? Felt like it took Margaret forever to do that.

We haven't played much on the play mat because even when I am watching Margaret like a hawk, she always seems to end up almost on top of Simms. Margaret is getting better. She loves tummy time! She lays in front of Simms screaming "tummy time Simms tummy time."

Swing = happy well rested baby girl

Sisterly love! It is huggie huggie, kissy kissy NONSTOP!!! From sun up to sun down.

These girls are definitely wearing me out but I love watching them together. Margaret can not get enough of her baby sister and know they will best of friends.

22 months! WHAT?!?!?

She loves to dance, play outside, go on walks, watch Fresh Beat Band, play in her kitchen, puzzles, books, Chugginton (train set), say her 1,2,3's and ABC's. She has gotten so good and am very proud of her.

"I need that . . . "

With her best buddy Miss Langston. We sure are going to miss seeing you next year!

We finally made it to the beach to give MomB her Christmas presents. Margaret had so much fun showing MomB how to do the Itsy Bitsy Spider.

Love these munckins.

MTB - 22.5 months and CSB - 3.5 months

Daddy come home

2012-02-01T15:39:00.002-05:00

Margaret knows how to melt her daddy's (and mommy's) heart!

While daddy was in the hospital for a week she was missing him more and more each day. She picked a flower for him and kept walking around asking him to come home.

She helped out a lot around the house and yard :)

We are so glad to have daddy home.

and glad he can finally pick the rug rats up :)

Daddy had a follow up appointment last week and the doctor told him he had one of the worst cases he has seen and was surprised he didn't get an infection.

THANK YOU LORD FOR WATCHING OUT FOR HIM!!!

Happy Birthday Jesus

2012-01-07T13:58:00.006-05:00

It was a busy and fun Christmas Eve

Jana came over and brought Miss Margaret a fun gift

a Rody! She loved to bounce and fall :)

Finally getting to meet Carter! 5 weeks apart. Poor Simms was so hungry and did not want to partake in pictures.

After church we headed to Gigi and Pops for a Christmas Eve celebration

We headed home in time to make sure the cookies were ready for Santa

and the milk :)

Santa came!

Margaret was a bit overwhelmed but it did not take her long to get into everything

Thanks Aunt Iz

Who wants some breakfast?!?

Thanks Dick and Megan!

Happy girl! So happy Santa came to visit her too

Simms helping daddy put batteries in her new boom box!

So very blessed! We can't wait for next year :)

December 2011

2012-01-07T12:59:00.006-05:00

All dressed and ready to get our Christmas tree

Hmmm which one daddy???

A great way to kick of the holiday season - Christmas in Avondale

All bundled up for a fun night!

Simms finally getting to meet her cousins.

We started Simms on probiotics and if we do not miss a day, she seems to be happier.

We had a fun busy December. Did a lot of reading . . .

decorating . . .

and visiting Santa Clause.

"Santa Clause . . . kitchen . . . good girl"

Margaret loves to dress up in mommy's shoes.

Sisterly love! Truly blessed with these little munchkins!

Baby its cold outside!

We were bored one morning and since Margaret wanted to wear her matching dress we decided to have a photo shoot. First of many matching outfits :)

A fun Christmas party at TCC hosted by Mimi

Annual gingerbread house decorating.

This year I missed out on getting the house at Costco so I decided to get the train instead.

Huggie Huggie

"Choo Choo"

And holidays wouldn't be complete without making cookies for Santa.

Yummy icing!

Thanksgiving 2011

2012-01-06T22:00:00.007-05:00

We had a great "Gobble Gobble" day with the Cassidy family.

Margaret loved her first Thanksgiving to enjoy the yummy food. She devoured the turkey papa made and of course the delicious sweet potato casserole Aunt Megan made. Wish she still had the same appetite!

Mommy didn't get to do much adventuring past the wooden gates around the house but spent lots of time walking the girls and of course . . . the dogs :)

Jimi (a.k.a Remi) was the highlight of Margaret's trip. She sure does miss her and when we pray for Memo and Papa at night, she immediately says Jimi. She will be so excited to see yall in February Aunt Iz!

Uncle Dick was so sweet to let Miss Margaret play Elmo games on his Ipad.

Lilly came Thanksgiving day and these two had more fun! She taught Margaret how to play ring a round the rosie which Margaret does ALL the time now. We can not wait to see them in Charleston for a fun filled wedding weekend for John and Cece!!

Megan was a HUGE help!!! Thanks again! You are welcome here ANYTIME! I sure have needed you this past week!

Despite Margaret's first (two) wasp stings, we had a great long weekend with the family. We have so many wonderful memories growing up there and feel so blessed the girls can enjoy it to. We just need to get the jeep and the hay barn back :)

Happy New Year!

2012-01-05T21:06:00.003-05:00

With the way we ended 2011 and started 2012, I made sure to eat A LOT of luck and money :)

Things have been extremely crazy lately. The holidays are always nonstop and fun but throw in a 2 month old and a 21 month old and it really throws you for a whirl wind! We had a wonderful Christmas and planned on having a low key New Years with some friends until daddy landed himself in the hospital. He was having severe pain so Pops took him to the ER to find out it was his appendix. He had surgery first thing Friday, thought he was coming home on New Years Eve but due to how inflamed his was, daddy did not get home until Tuesday afternoon!! It has been a LONG week of tending to the girls. Gigi sat with them so I could visit him in the hospital and Memo and Papa came home early and kept Margaret for me! Juggling the two alone at nighttime is no joke!!! After 4 nights, it was a much needed break even if Simms was miserable. I sure will be glad when daddy can help me again. Unfortunately not for another few weeks but we are so glad he is home and getting better each day!! We love you daddy!

Needless to say I have had NO time to myself. Stay tuned for pics from our fun filled holidays . . . hopefully sooner than later.

2 months

2011-12-15T21:00:00.004-05:00

Time is flying! Can not believe Simms is 2 months old. We had her checkup this week and she is growing like a weed. She weighed 11 lbs 6 oz. A pound more than her sister weighed at this time. Simms personality is shining more and more and she loves to smile! Will post a picture soon.

Sorry for the lack of posts/pictures. Things have been crazy since Thanksgiving. Margaret has had a cold/cough for what seems like forever. I had a horrible stomach bug and was sick for a week and this week no one is sleeping. Margaret is waking up at all hours of the night thanks to her 2 year molars. Last night, I fed Simms at 10 and we all crashed. At 2 I woke up not to Simms wanting to eat but to Margaret saying "Mommy come"! It was the first time in a while Simms was sleeping and Margaret decides to not sleep. UGH! I am anxiously awaiting the night where we ALL get a good night sleep.

Margaret is 21 months today. Lets hope this month is better than the last. These terrible two's are not so fun! . . . She has grown so much. Making sentences and really talking! Becoming more independent but yet still wanting to be carried everywhere! Margaret loves school and her teachers! We BOTH are really going to miss them these next two weeks, however we are really excited for Christmas. She was looking at a magazine and got so excited at the kitchens. I asked her if she wanted Santa to bring her a kitchen and it stuck. Margaret is telling everyone she wants Santa to bring her a kitchen :)

I Miss You...

2011-11-19T15:45:00.005-05:00

Margaret is constantly telling us she misses us. It melts our hearts! Hope she always feels this way :)

Big Girl

2011-11-19T15:24:00.003-05:00

First haircut

Her hair is slowly growing, except for the back is growing faster. She had cute little curls that turned into a mullet with this on and off again cold weather. While we were giving both girls a bath the other night we decided to giver her a haircut. Well daddy did! She quickly went from my little girl to a big girl, as she calls herself :)

Yesterday Margaret (the last turkey :) was in her first Thanksgiving Program. She was a little overwhelmed with all the people but did a great job. Tried to get a picture of her and her cute teachers but she would not have it.

Langston (second from right) and her purse :)

We headed to Chuck E Cheese a few weeks ago for "Owens Party"

The girls thought this looked like a lot of fun until it got as tall as their mommies

Double Trouble :)

Margaret had a blast and is still talking about "Owen's Party"

We have enjoyed a few cold snaps here and there.

so have bundled up and taken advantage of the great outdoors.

Love this time of year!!!! Now cooler weather will you please stay!

Home Away From Home

2011-11-19T14:53:00.006-05:00

Over the past 5 weeks we have gone to the doctors at least once a week.

To celebrate Simm's being 4 weeks, I took both girls to Carithers by myself. Mommy was beyond exhausted after being there for almost 2 hours but the girls were very good. Simms weighed 9 lbs and ?? ounces. Growing girl!

Poor Margaret has had the horrible on and off again cold topped with a fabulous cough and congested chest.

And back to the dr we go. Simms has had horrible reflux, gas and not pooping. May be thats why she is gaining so much weight so fast. She weighed a whopping 10lbs 2 oz!!! I was shocked. I couldn't believe with all the milk she spits up that she is gaining a pound a day. Great news but we just can not figure out her tummy :( We have tried every medicine and diet so we are headed to GI at Nemours on Wednesday.

Despite her horrible tummy aches, she does have her happy moments :)

1 Month

2011-11-19T14:29:00.004-05:00

Where did this last month go? I guess you could say it has been a fast but LONG one :)

We have been trying to figure out her poor little tummy. Mommy has been on strict diets that haven't seemed to work and have tried every reflux medicine. On a good night (if she poops) I will feed her at 10 and she will wake me up again around 2:30 to eat. But lately the gas has kept her pretty miserable and awake.

Margaret use to do the exact same thing with her thumb :)

The napnanny has been our lifesaver. Simms sleeps in it between us at night.

So pretty :)

Days go by and I realize we haven't had much play time. I try and do it while Margaret is at school

for this very reason :)

Before this picture was taken Simms was screaming! We both tried to calm her down and were unsuccessful. Margaret asked to hold Simms and within seconds she stopped crying. Sisterly love!

Halloween

2011-11-08T13:34:00.005-05:00

The cutest Strawberry and Bumblebee :)

Pumpkin carving time!

Daddy and Margaret did a great job!

We had a low key Halloween handing out candy, inside. In the past we have hung out with the neighbors in our driveway but this year we passed. Daddy was sick the night before and not to mention everyone was a lil sleep deprived.

Halloween wouldn't be complete without our annual pictures with Miss Langston. Cheese! :)

3 weeks

2011-10-31T13:53:00.005-04:00

(2 weeks old)

Where has the time gone?!?! I can not believe 3 weeks ago (tomorrow) Simms was born. We have come a long way and know we have an even longer way to go :) She is starting to sleep better at night, except last night. We all were up :( We have also been having tummy problems like her sister had but hopefully will turn a new leaf soon. I am constantly changing outfits and doing loads and loads of laundry. The spit up just seems to keep on coming.

We walked up to Stockton one afternoon to play on the playground.

It was nearly impossible to get her to go home

Simms is becoming more and more alert.

I can not get enough of these smiles.

James and Mary Jane came in town this past weekend. They hung out for a bit, watched some football and played with their nieces.

Uncle James was not so fond of the spit up :)

We wish the visit was longer but can not wait to spend more time with them at Christmas.

Sisters

2011-10-31T13:29:00.002-04:00

To say Margaret LOVES "Baby Simps!" is an understatement! She can not get enough of her! Hope this lasts forever :)

Whenever she makes a noise she yells her name and goes running. Needless to say it is nearly impossible for Simms to get a good nap.

She is already wanting to share a room! I guarantee that will change.

Margaret tries picking her up now which makes me super nervous, especially since she isn't the best listener these days.

Every morning, or whenever Simms wakes up, Margaret yells "Good morning Simms" in her face. It is priceless.

All ready for bed after their baths

Daddy's girls :)

I know these girls will be a handful (just like any children) but I truly feel so blessed. It is definitely challenging with them being 19 months apart but they are going to be great friends. Margaret gets so frustrated because she is ready for her to play.

Fall Festival

2011-10-30T15:47:00.003-04:00

Last week Margaret's school had their fall festival. Megan came in town and was able to watch Simms so I could go with Margaret. Thanks again Aunt Megan.

She was a bit overwhelmed but had fun!

First week

2011-10-22T16:18:00.005-04:00

Home Sweet Home

We have had many sleepless nights but we are SLOWLY getting to sleep a few more minutes each night. Simms on the other hand has been snoozing away, less at night unfortunately.

First doctors appointment.

When we left the hospital (Thurs 10/13) she weighed 7lbs 11ozs and when we went to the doctor (10/17) she weighed 7lbs 14ozs, 21 inches. Which is a good thing bc with all the spit up I was beginning to wonder if she was getting any milk. Looks like she is just like her sister with spit up and re flux.

Big sister helping me give Simms her first bath

Aunt Liz came in town for a few days and was a BIG help! Thanks again "aunt iz" :)

It was a low key birthday but a great one with my girls. Papa got me a yummy cake from Edgewood Bakery. Thanks again!

All warm and cozy in the stroller for her first walk

Margaret loved having Simms right next to her.

Proud daddy!

2011-10-22T16:10:00.002-04:00

2011-10-22T16:09:00.000-04:00

2011-10-22T15:41:00.006-04:00

Still in shock we are about to become a family of 4

Hours later sweet Simms is born

Margaret was so excited to meet her baby! She said "baby sister" so clear! It was priceless.

Finally getting ready to go home.

"Stop taking pictures and lets go! I have been here too long! :)"

It's a GIRL!!!!!!

2011-10-12T18:33:00.003-04:00

Catherine "Simms" Brent arrived October 11 at 1:30pm weighing a whopping 8 pounds 4 ounces, 20 inches.

It was the ideal delivery, much better than Margaret's! After waking up at 3:20am with contractions and waiting for Miss Margaret to wake up so mommy could get her fix, we headed to the hospital. We checked in at 8am and was only 3 cm (I had been having contractions the day before(10/10), went into to get monitored and was only 1.5 at 4pm). Contractions increased quickly, they broke my water and as soon as I could I got my epidural, which worked this time! At 11:15 I was 6cm and by 1:15 we were ready to meet the little one. Um what that was fast! 5 pushes and 7 minutes later we heard the wonderful news . . . it's a girl! A healthy girl! She looks so much like her big sister. We are all in love and feel so blessed!

(Will update with pictures from the last few days when we get home and I have a spare minute :)

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-10T21:01:00.006-04:00

Pumpkins Everywhere!

Margaret was in heaven with all the pumpkins. A lot bigger than her little one she has on her table at home. She kept trying to pick them all up, but

they were too "heavy" :)

Happy girl!

2011-10-08T14:36:00.003-04:00

Enjoying what might be our last breakfast at the Fox as a family of 3.

Love this little girl!

Can't believe she will be 19 Months (in one week) and her baby brother/sister will arrive in 9 days or less. Even though I am beyond uncomfortable, I think I am in denial the time as come for us to be a family of 4. Definitely nervous but so excited. Margaret is going to be a great big sister. Just pray she loves this baby as much as she loves other babies :)

Fall is in the air

2011-10-08T14:32:00.002-04:00

well at least it was last weekend.

We pulled the TV outside and watched some football while enjoying the chiminea.

"Pumpkin!"

A couple of weeks ago we had a fun dinner at the Busey's with LOTS of dancing. Not sure who had more fun, the kids or the adults :)

Celebrating Jim's birthday

Loves talking on the phone :) She calls Papa and Roe Roe several times a day!

We have been under the weather yet again. We spent many days in our pj's reading books and playing puzzles.

"Cook!"

She loves to help me cook. We decided to make a BIG mess one afternoon and make Halloween cookies.

but her favorite is cooking ice and rice with a splash of noodles.

39 weeks

2011-10-06T16:13:00.003-04:00

and counting . . .

We finally have some progress! 1.5cm. She said the baby is very low and heartbeat was 150.

Hoping he/she will be here VERY soon but in the mean time spending a lot of time together has a family of 3.

Where's Waldo?

2011-09-30T22:25:00.003-04:00

Margaret's grandparents have been traveling so much the last several months it is hard to keep up with them! Not to mention explaining it to a little one when she asks about them nonstop!!

Margaret was so excited one day

because she received a postcard from Gigi and Pops. She carried it with her everywhere! Now if we can just get them and keep them home for the arrival of her brother/sister ;)

Full Term!

2011-09-30T20:51:00.002-04:00

Last week I reached 37 weeks. Heartbeat was 140-145 and not much progress :(

(50% effaced)

38 Weeks and counting. Still not much progress; which I am shocked due to the way I feel and the nonstop lifestyle of taking care of an 18 month old. Definitely different from when I was pregnant with Margaret and could relax.

http://thebrentfamily.blogspot.com/2010/02/38-weeks.html

18 Month Appointment!

2011-09-19T14:48:00.005-04:00

We had a great appointment this morning with Dr Kim. She was impressed with Margaret and said she is doing things they ask about at her 2 year appointment.

Weight - 21 lbs. 14 oz. (20%)

Height - 33 in. (75-90%)

Two shots and a mild earache :(

17 months pics!

2011-09-19T13:47:00.006-04:00

Where did this last month go?? or should I say 17 months :)

Her first school project :)

Margaret LOVES school! She associates it with babies and blocks. She does not hesitate going and walks right in.

It didn't take long for miss priss to get sick. We originally were taking the boat to the club for Labor Day weekend. Thank goodness we didn't bc we woke up to a crying baby who couldn't breath and had a fever :( These cuddly moments do not happen very often unless she wants to be picked up and says hug bc she wants something!

She luckily was back to normal in no time but spent a lot of time with blankie and Elmo that Saturday.

We have been VERY busy getting this house in order!

Margaret's big girl room is almost complete. Here is a picture of part of her room.

Napping in the playroom while the painters work in the bedroom hallway. Almost a month ago we had painters fixing a paint job gone wrong by the previous owners. Well we thought they were going to fix the latex over oil issue but they decided it was too much work so they finished what they started and left. So much for emptying out THREE closets full of stuff. We finally got our living room and dining room back to normal this past weekend!

Working on Margaret's new playroom. When we went to get our stroller from a baby store that was closing, John noticed this entertainment center they used as their design center.

Its is perfect and she loves it!

The weather seems to be getting better. Some days. After so much time inside due to heat and mosquitoes, mommy braved it and tackled the zoo.

We had a fun time but needed it to be a bit cooler!

She LOVES to cook! Another favorite at school as well!

She makes "ice" and it sure is yummy :)

Last week we had a tummy problem.

Poor thing was so exhausted that by 11AM she passed out while I was on the phone with the dr. Thank goodness we were back to our normal self mid afternoon. I enjoyed the cuddle time though.

Super Market sweep! We ran a few errands the other night and daddy let her play with this shopping cart. He was chasing her everywhere trying to get it back :)

"FOOTBALL!!" Her new favorite with daddy!

34 and 36 week appointments

2011-09-19T13:13:00.004-04:00

Baby Brent #2 is growing and doing great!

34 week appointment went well. Baby's heartbeat was about 145.

35 weeks

Countdown is on! Appointments every week until baby arrives. Wow so much to do. Put this house back to normal, laundry, oh and most importantly figure out names :)

36 week appointment went well. Got my flu shot :( Not much progress to report. Heartbeat was about 135. I have a feeling he/she will not be early. I have mixed emotions. My body is ready but I am trying to enjoy these last few weeks with just Miss Margaret. I am beyond anxious to meet this little one but nervous.

First day of school!

2011-08-30T11:13:00.004-04:00

Waiting for daddy to head to "school" to meet her teacher's at orientation

She did not have one problem. She loved all the toys and "babies" there!

The BIG day!!! Lunch box is packed . . .

and off to her first day of "school"

Poor thing didn't sleep well last night and was very sleepy.

34 weeks tomorrow (8/31)

We parked in front of the playground and she immediately said "school" with a big smile. She was so excited and I do not think it phased her one bit mommy and daddy did not stay. Mommy on the other hand had a hard time. I am eager to pick her up and hear how her first day went!

Progress

2011-08-30T11:02:00.003-04:00

The room is coming along. Poor daddy spends every spare second, which is not much these days, on the babies room or helping me move stuff.

Margaret has been a big help as well :) Scooting around with daddy asking him to "read."

Windows are done

so all we have left to do is paint the baseboards, closets and one more coat on walls. It looks great so far and we are eager to start decorating.

16 Months

2011-08-30T10:01:00.004-04:00

Better late than never!

She is loving the babies stuff.

Margaret was given the "original" Elmo and lets just say she does NOT put him down. It has actually made our Elmo obsession worse! :)

Enjoying lunch with mommy and daddy after seeing my brother/sister

"Bib" - looking mommy I can put it on all by myself!

Loves making a mess :)

I can not take a picture with this adorable face :)

Showing off her new shoes. Way too big but the rate she's growing they will fit in no time!

An adorable baby store went out of business and had a huge sale! We were fortunate to get one of the few strollers they had. Margaret loves it and for now Elmo will take the place of her brother/sister.

The end of July we officially graduated swim lessons. We are so proud of our little floater!

Blessed

2011-08-18T14:09:00.004-04:00

As I sit here waiting for the newest addition to arrive, overwhelmed with a lot of changes that have occurred and are about to happen, I can't help but stop and thank the Lord for blessing me with so much! Family, friends, and especially my little girl! I love watching her learn something new every second without a worry in the world. Man I miss those days :)

Margaret is talking more and more everyday. I can't even keep up with how many words she is saying. She loves "books"! She points to the ground, says "mommy" (which means sit by me), and tells me to "read" :) She knows every book we have by heart. She also loves puzzles and knows almost all of the animals and can match them up. She knows we LOVE hugs so when there is something we ask her to do and she doesn't want to do, she gives us a BIG hug around our neck and doesn't let go. Pretty smart huh :)

I am amazed with how much Margaret has grown and continues to each day! I wish her aunts and uncles lived closer so they could see her more. Don't worry I will post pics soon.

It has been an amazing 17 months and can not wait for the months and years ahead. We will continue to be overwhelmed as Margaret tests us and learn to manage two but will never forget to take a moment to thank the lord for the blessings he has given us.

32 Week Checkup

2011-08-18T14:01:00.003-04:00

Dr Laubsher said Baby Brent #2 is doing great and right on track. His/her heartbeat was about 133. Definitely growing and causing this momma to become more and more uncomfortable.

(Baby dropped and getting less and less sleep. Felt was sleeping pretty well until now :(

Baby Brent #2 - 29.5 weeks

2011-08-11T08:52:00.003-04:00

A few weeks ago we had a 3D/4D ultrasound done. We did the same for Margaret and wanted to do it for this little guy/gal. He/She did NOT cooperate so we didn't get very good pics. I actually think the ones she printed had a few of the best shots (will try and scan those later). We tried and tried to get him/her to move but no such luck so the lady gave us the DVD which I must say is amazing! Brought tears to my eyes!

A few days before we went I found Margaret's pictures and took them to compare. There was one picture that we couldn't believe it but they resembled each other so much!

http://thebrentfamily.blogspot.com/2009/12/merry-christmas.html

We are anxious to meet the newest member! 9 weeks give or take. Wow has time flown!

Perdido

2011-08-05T22:01:00.007-04:00

After swim lessons and a morning of packing my car, pretty much holding Margaret, we were FINALLY off!!

Poor thing didn't even make it to San Marco before she was out cold!

She only slept for an hour and half which was not good for mommy but she was a trouper! We did stop for an hour for lunch. It was a LONG trip just the two of us but we both survived.

We were so glad to see daddy. We quickly unloaded the car and headed to the beach before

enjoying a yummy dinner on the balcony.

The first few days were spent in the HOT sun with daddy playing on the beach and swimming.

She was always ready to go to "a pool." Pretty much the first words out of her mouth whenever she woke up.

She loved the elevator!!

Monday, the afternoon storms rolled in but it didn't bother mommy one bit. Daddy had left before 6 to head to Mobile for work so I was on my own. Margaret was down for a nap and I sat on the balcony and read an entire magazine at one sitting. Amazing I know :) Not sure the last time that happened!

We definitely missed daddy all week. Since he only gets 2 weeks off for the entire year and already used one week for the Bahamas, we figured he needed to save his remaining days for Baby Brent #2.

Baby in tow of course :)

Tuesday we headed to Fairhope to see Liz's house and play.

We stopped at an adorable toy store and Margaret had a ball running around :)

Before heading back we stopped at Bass Pro to see the fishes!

As soon as we dropped Aunt Liz off she was out cold. Poor thing was a trouper for being gone 10 hours and not really having a nap.

Each time we sat down to eat and baby was not around, Margaret would freak! So a special trip to Toys-R-Us was in order. It has been a lifesaver at EVERY meal!

Margaret wasn't as fond of the beach as she was the pool. It was such a haul to get down there on my own and with the sand being so soft it really wore me out! So mommy didn't mind one bit.

We didn't do enough of these! Who wouldn't like to swim day and night. Our little fishy was in heaven!

Flying her first kite with daddy.

The Joyners came Friday and we headed to the Hangout to celebrate JJ's birthday.

The girls had so much fun dancing and people watching. Unfortunately they only stayed one night. The weather was so yucky Saturday they decided to go ahead and start driving to New Orleans where they were flying out of Monday morning.

Enjoying a nightcap before bed

The weather cleared up enough to have one last swim in "a pool"

We had a great last dinner at the Point. We sat right next to a bluegrass band and enjoyed great tunes and a yummy dinner.

Sunday the weather was even worse! Poor daddy had to pack both cars in the pouring rain :(

All in all we had a great week! Always fun to get away but there's no place like home. We are still unpacking and still sick!

Getting ready for Baby Brent #2

2011-07-29T14:19:00.003-04:00

Before we left for the beach, we picked out a color for the baby's room. The darker color around the windows is what we narrowed it down to. We have one coat on now and it looks amazing. Daddy has also stripped the windows to the bare wood and has painted one with primer. We are making progress and will post updated pics soon.

We couldn't do it without the help of . . .

the "big sister" :)

Baby!!!!

2011-07-29T14:04:00.003-04:00

Who knew by 15 months we would have a baby OBSESSION!

and it only keeps getting worse.

At least one baby goes with us everywhere! - at our 15 Month appointment

I can not find her wash cloths and this is why :) They have become the babies bed or blankets.

All of my kids waiting on daddy to come home.

We do not go to bed unless we have ALL of our babies!! Some nights she would rather get in bed with babies than read books.

We are not happy unless we know baby is ok and right beside us. - Reading one of her favorites - "mooooon"

15 Months

2011-07-29T13:38:00.003-04:00

She is growing up way too fast! She is talking so much I can not even keep up with all the words.

Ever since we rode in the "car" when Avery was in town that is the only thing we drive now! Watch out for us at the grocery store :) These things are buses!!

This was her one year birthday outfit. How is it she can grow that much in just a few short months?!?!

She loves her milk. As soon as she wakes up she asks for her milk!!!

We were busy running errand getting ready for the beach along with swim lessons so we stopped and had a little fun and visited the ducks.

we can not drive by a pond with a fountain without her saying "duck".

After the feeding the ducks and swinging, we stopped for lunch.

Mommy was a bit nervous bc the last time we stopped to get food just the two of us, I ended up getting it to go right after ordering. This time she was a complete angel and ate so much!!!

After lunch we stopped at Southern Crossing to get a chair to go with her new big girl table.

4th of July weekend

2011-07-28T13:06:00.008-04:00

Hope everyone had a wonderful 4th.

We had another fun filled weekend on the boat.

Margaret was so excited Grier came to play. The girls enjoying a bath before . . .

getting all dolled up for dinner.

Margaret loves her daddy!!

and Miss "Cha Chi" :)

She can not wait until she can do this with her brother or sister. She keeps trying to get Tucker to chase her and it just isn't the same :)

Margaret and her baby enjoying some milk

Daddy spoiled her BIG time :)

Margaret was so happy to have her buddy back. Langston and her mom had gone to Atlanta for a few days but made it back in time to play and watch fireworks.

The 4th would not be complete without watermelon :)

Third Trimester . . .

2011-07-24T07:31:00.002-04:00

Wow where has the time gone!!! Last weekend, we were sitting in Perdido all packed up enjoying our last night at the beach. John and I were talking and couldn't remember when I entered the third trimester. Thinking I had at least a few more weeks, I looked it up and realized it was in the next few days. UM what!! I began to have a panic attack.

This past Wednesday I entered the third trimester and had my 28 week appointment. I saw the one doctor I had never seen before. Not even when I was pregnant with Margaret. I absolutely loved her!! She went over all my results with me unlike some of the doctors. Last Monday I had to get my glucose test done (I didn't pass out :) and she said I passed with flying colors. My blood work also looked great; normally there are small signs of being anemic but I am not. I am measuring right on track. Now the 2 week appointment starts!! Funny thing is I still find John and I saying we can not believe in 2.5 months we are having another baby!!!!

Where has the time gone?!?!?! We have so much to do before this little guy/gal arrives. We have had a great summer but now it is time to get to work. I promise I will upload pictures from our adventures. We have been out of town every weekend since Memorial weekend and for you moms out there know that it means a week of packing, vacation and then a week or more of laundry and trying to get back on track. Not to mention this past week we get home Sunday night, Margaret gets sick Monday afternoon and I get it Wednesday night so it is taking a lot longer to get back into the swing of things. Stay tuned Uncle James :)

15 Month Checkup

2011-07-24T07:19:00.002-04:00

On June 23, we had Margaret's 15 month checkup. (I think I forgot to post the info but am doing so now for those interested but for me to compare later.)

This was the first appointment I went to by myself and let me tell you it was tough. She cried the whole time and would NOT let go of me. Pretty hard when there isn't much room in your lap. The Dr told me that the 15 month and 18 month are one of the worst. Poor thing had to get two shots, one in each leg, but was a trouper. She didn't change much in her weight. She actually was weighing less that her 12 month but at the last minute the scale changed. The Dr was very impressed with her vocabulary. She asked if she could say about 5 words and I laughed. Told her I could not even count how many words she knew. She has amazed me every day learning something new. I love watching her grow and am getting so excited for her brother or sister to get here.

15 months - Weight: 20 lbs 2.5 oz (10%); Height: 31 inches (70%)

Swimming Videos

2011-06-23T22:33:00.003-04:00

She was a wiggle worm beginning of the week. Just wanted to clap and be done with it :)

Last week she only wanted to kick with her right leg so we decided this summer we would just float.

Swim Lessons

2011-06-23T22:03:00.004-04:00

Our second week of swim lessons are almost complete. Margaret has done a great job. We tried swimming the first week but wasn't into kicking so we decided to stick with floating which is what she worked on this week. I have taken lots of videos with my phone but for some reason am having trouble uploading them.

She loves having a snack with mommy in my car when she's done.

Poor thing barely makes it down San Jose sometimes. We are still trying to get back to reality after staying on the boat, a week in the Bahamas, house guests and not to mention morning naps. She pretty much dropped them but needs one every now and then.
She has been a trouper and am very proud of her!

Fun weekend

2011-06-23T21:36:00.003-04:00

We had a fun and busy weekend. Holly and Avery came in town to surprise Jana for her baby shower. We thought Jana may have had an inkling but she was so surprised! Mission Accomplished!

Unfortunately the corner of the toy chest won :(

but nothing that a Popsicle will not help ease the pain.

Both girls love to dance so we held lots and lots of dance parties.

Saturday morning we had a baby shower for Jana at Biscottis. We had a blast showering her with goodies for Baby Carter and can not wait to meet him!

Looking forward to getting all these babies together!! Going to be great friends like their momma's :)

ACB - due Oct 12, CBS - due Oct 13, HHJ - due Oct 27, JSR - due Sept 9

Thanks John, Gigi and Pops for watching the girls so we could enjoy ourselves!

Holly and Avery left early Sunday morning so we headed to the Fox for Father's Day Breakfast.

The Bryan's had the same idea and were sitting several booths away. Margaret kept wanting to go see her buddy Miss Langston.

Afterwards we went to Memo and Papa's for a swim.

Pops came over for Father's Day dinner.

Thanks again for playing with Margaret so I could cook without a lil girl climbing up my legs.

Happy Father's Day to all the amazing dads!

Paradise

2011-06-15T13:58:00.011-04:00

Bahamas here we come!!!

The girls were FANTASTIC on the plane. I do not think we could of asked for anything better.

All of our luggage :)

Langston was exhausted from the flight and decided to relax while we waited on the ferry.

So happy to be in the Bahamas!

The Bryans house is simply amazing! We were definitely in paradise and wish we were still there.

After the girls nap we headed to the beach

The girls saw their first starfish

Best buds! They of course wanted each others toys but got along great. Margaret ran around the house calling Langston :)

Enjoying our first morning in the Abacos at Sea Snot . . . the Cut.

The tide was a little high and of course the one cloud in the sky was above us but that didn't stop us from having fun at Tahiti Beach.

Off to Cracker P's for lunch

Get going everyone so we can go to the beach

22 weeks

Feeding her new baby the Bryans gave her. I keep catching her trying to feed her baby her milk now that we are home :)

A beautiful morning at Hope Town

Yummy lunch at Captain Jack's

Margaret had a blast helping daddy dig lots of holes.

Yummy Yummy in my tummy!

Margaret enjoying her first sunset

The girls were NOT fond of the life jackets but once the boat started moving, this is how you found Margaret :)

If you can not tell these girls had a blast together!! Margaret every now and then starts calling Langstons name wondering where she is. They are two peas in a pod that will be great friends just like their mommas!

After a rough, rainy boat ride to Marsh Harbor and a change of clothes later at the airport, we finally made it on the plane. Our pilot said it will be a bit bumpy but nothing too TRAGIC! I looked at John, laughed and said did he seriously just say that. The funny thing is he came back a little while later and said wow that was bumpier than we expected.

We had a wonderful time in paradise and can not thank the Bryans enough.

Staying cool

2011-06-15T13:51:00.002-04:00

It has been HOT HOT HOT!!

so we have passed the days playing in the backyard.

and getting ready for the Bahamas!

Memorial Weekend

2011-06-15T13:41:00.003-04:00

We had a wonderful memorial weekend spent with family and friends. Gigi and Pops took us to the Crabshack on the boat that Saturday. Dick, Megan and Liz joined us. It was a gorgeous day and we had a blast.

The rest of the weekend was spent on the boat at the club. Thanks for letting us use it Papa.

Our little fishy taking a break and enjoying a snack.

20 week pictures

2011-06-14T20:26:00.004-04:00

3 weeks ago we were blessed to see Baby Brent #2. He/She weighed approximately14 ounces and was a wiggle worm just like his/her sister.

Baby Brent 2 looking at us

Feet that keep kicking mommy

Hard to believe we will meet Baby Brent 2 in 4 months!!

Zoo with dada

2011-05-18T14:24:00.004-04:00

Margaret and I were very lucky to have Daddy join us for a fun morning at the zoo!

First stop, one of Margaret's favorite animal . . . the owl!! Anytime she sees one she says who who!!!

Another favorite! She was all smiles and didn't want to leave.

The otters were having a ball swimming and Margaret loved watching them. Can't wait to take her to the aquarium one day!!

After an early lunch we rode the train before heading home.

Dada here it comes!!! Choo Choo!!

It is really loud :)

She's such a ham and loves the camera :)

It was a fantastic morning.

And I think this picture pretty much sums it all up!!!

Mother's Day

2011-05-10T15:36:00.005-04:00

Only picture of me and my lil girl we took :(

Hope everyone had a wonderful Mother's Day especially Memo and Gigi. We love you guys!!!

Dad worked at church so Margaret and I had some fun girl time. She loves smelling flowers so we headed to Lowes to buy some for a garden.

Poor thing was so tired so down she went for an early nap

so we could head to the pool for a bit once daddy got home.

Several days later the Mother's Day Garden is complete! Thanks daddy for helping finish it faster :)

Catch Up - 13 Months!

2011-05-10T15:07:00.005-04:00

My little munchkin is growing up so fast!!

She had a blast at Cha's Cha's Birthday Tea Party

Enjoying lunch at the club!

She loves Tucker and besides knocking her over, he is pretty good with her too. She loves trying to sit on him or by him.

My little girlie girl! I barely wear any makeup which is why I am so amazed she started putting on her own :)

First time at the beach

and it didn't take long for her to taste test the sand

She waved to everyone that went by

She had a blast and can not wait to go back. Can't wait to go to Perdido and visit Aunt Liz and see the Joyners in July. Can't get here soon enough!!

Miller Time!

We had a great day on the boat with Memo and Papa

I love this girl!!!!! Can't believe she will be 14 months this weekend.

Catch up - 12 month pics!

2011-05-10T14:05:00.004-04:00

Oh how we miss you grass :) Not a big rye grass fan but hey it is green!

Bahamas here we come!!

Happy St Patrick's Day

She loves her cousins and has so much fun with them!

Giddy Up!

Off to a fun Family Day Picnic hosted but the Jones'

Getting ready for summer but not so sure about her baby pool!

A fun lunch date with Grier

15 weeks and 4 days

2011-04-25T14:06:00.002-04:00

Here ya go Aunt Liz!

The belly is growing fast!!!

Ignore the gorgeous hair :) We had just gotten back from lunch via the golf cart.

*At 15 weeks started feeling the fluttering in my belly!

Easter 2011

2011-04-25T13:24:00.009-04:00

Margaret was so excited to see the goodies the Easter Bunny left.

We woke up bright and early and headed to sunrise service

where she enjoyed a breakfast picnic

We ALL surprisingly made it on time but guess where we wish we were :)

She loves her shades!

After communion we took a slow stroll down the river bank to watch the sunrise.

After a morning nap we got all dressed up

and headed to Memo and Papa's for lunch.

The Easter Bunny came!!!

Margaret did a great job for her first egg hunt. She grabbed her basket and off she went!

She had a great time! We all did!

We had a wonderful weekend!! Nonstop but we wouldn't have it any other way!!

We missed Aunt Liz, all the Brent's and Alexander's but had a wonderful time with the Cassidy's!

Thanks again Dick and Megan for coming in town! Come back again soon!

Appointments

2011-04-13T15:03:00.004-04:00

With everything going on, I Forgot to post the stats from Margaret's 12 month appointment. Yes I was a mean mommy who made her appointment on her birthday. I promise sweet pea I will not do that again.

Such a happy girl before 2 shots in her arms and one in her leg :(

12 month appointment-

Weight - 20lbs (4oz I think. I of course can not find the sheet anywhere!)

Height - 30 inches

I will update as soon as I can find the sheet

Baby Brent Updates: 14 weeks

We went for a checkup yesterday and everything was great. Heartbeat was strong. Slowed down some since our last checkup to 145 from 175. I think we have another active Brent Baby! As soon as she found the heartbeat, the baby would quickly move!

It has definitely been hard not having all the ultrasounds I had when I was pretty with Margaret. It was so neat being able to watch her grow. It is going to be a LONG 6 week wait to finally see our lil one!

And she's off . . .

2011-03-28T19:43:00.004-04:00

She's takin 2 or 3 steps here and there but today was a different story. Margaret had crawled into the living room to wait for daddy in the window. Memo had stopped by to say hello so I told Margaret lets show her how you can walk (aka take a few steps!). She sure did . . . surprised us both!! It was around 13 steps. She walked across the rug so many times I started loosing count. Daddy didn't believe us when he got home so we had to show him again . . . and again . . . and again!!!

2011-03-23T13:20:00.002-04:00

I am going to be a BIG SISTER sometime the middle of October!

Surprised?!?! I am just to say the least. I am 11 weeks today and due October 12. I have been extremely sick for the last 2 months. It has been a long few months but couldn't of done it with out the fabulous grandparents and the best husband in the world!! The nausea is getting better but the energy level is barely there. Might be due to the lack of sleep I am getting as well. I am approaching the second trimester and am praying to get my energy back. Not easy taking care of a busy one year old while pregnant! The kids will be 19 months apart (sorry for those I have told 17, my brain is not working :). I am a little nervous but know we will have so much fun!

Look Whooo's One!

2011-03-23T12:39:00.004-04:00

It's my birthday!!!!

Margaret had a great first birthday with lots of family and friends who came from near and far to celebrate. It was a great time had by all. Lots of pizza, drinks and sugar!!

The delicious cupcakes Memo made

and the precious smash cake she got. Thanks again!!!

Why is everyone staring at me ?!?! :)

She wasn't so sure about the cake so Memo showed her how yummy it is

She quickly found out she loves icing!!

A quick stand up on her own!

Happy Birthday sweet girl!!!!

Thank you to everyone who helped! Bebe's appetizers, Gigi's salad, Memo's dessert, and to Uncle Dick for not only watching Margaret during the day but also helping set up. I couldn't of done it without yall!!!

XOXOXO

Happy 1st Birthday

2011-03-15T20:48:00.004-04:00

Sweet baby girl!!!

It has been an amazing year! You have brought so much joy and happiness into our lives and love you more than words can say! We look forward to another wonderful year ahead!

LOVING this weather!!!

2011-02-24T14:11:00.002-05:00

Who wouldn't! :)

We have spent a lot more time outdoors playing . . . with Tucker. She loves watching him catch the ball.

Her giggle box has turned on BIG time. It is soooooo cute. We have yet to capture it on video but promise to do so. She has gone back to squinting her eyes and nose in excitement.

She was so exhausted after playing hard one morning she crashed for a 2 hour afternoon nap . . . which is normally nearly impossible for her to take.

Before . . .

2011-02-02T21:29:00.003-05:00

and

After!

The painters are FINALLY finished. It was a long few weeks under house arrest!!!

Margaret had a great time watching the guys from each window and occasionally from outside. Who could stay indoors on such a gorgeous day!

We love the color and can not wait for the shutters to be finished!

Books!

2011-02-02T20:54:00.004-05:00

Memo brought over a bunch of my books that I had growing up

Margaret was obviously in heaven

and didn't know which one to read first!

Saturday started off a lil messy

which made for an early bubble bath

The weather was so nice this past weekend, we had lunch outside while dad organized the garage.

She finally thinks the sippy cup is not a game. She spits the water out most of the time but she is getting the hang of it.

Loving the warm weather!

Daddy's Little Helper

2011-02-02T20:44:00.002-05:00

Daddy is always working on something around the house and Margaret is not far behind him

She is normally watching from the inside

waiting to see what window he is going to pop at next

Repetez s'il vous plait

2011-01-19T07:44:00.003-05:00

In the last few days, Margaret has gotten really good at repeating words. She has always loved saying Tucker and Dada but last night she said yellow and thank you, just to name a few. Her biggest accomplishment was "bye". Mom headed to Target to get a few things while dad and Margaret were outside looking at what a wonderful job the painters have done so far. Our neighbor was pulling out of her driveway and Margaret starts to wave and says, "bye"!!! Daddy could NOT believe his ears. He of course tried to get her to do again but that was a negative. I'll believe it when I hear it ;)

10 Months!

2011-01-16T16:01:00.007-05:00

She is growing up so fast!

We took dinner to some friends of ours the other night who had a baby a couple of weeks ago. John and I couldn't get over how tiny their precious daughter is. We looked at each other and tried to remember those first few weeks. Wow sooooo much has happened!

I have tried to get her to walk behind this toy but she will have NOTHING to do with it. I ran to get some coffee and came back to her walking across her play area.

Margaret is (crawling) all over the place. You can not take your eyes off of her for one second . . . right Papa :)

She is such a daddy's girl and loves watching him cut the grass.

Daddy where are you????

There you are!!

This past week I heard a lot of ruckus on our front porch. Blue jays were going crazy so after a few minutes I decided to see what all the fuss was about before they woke Margaret up. This adorable little guy was at the front door. Scared me to death! He stuck around til the sun went down and off he went.

Margaret LOVES books!

and bath time! The moment I open the shower curtain, she bolts to the bathroom . . .

to watch the tub fill up with water!

Such a happy girl!

We finally found a food she does NOT like . . . cauliflower.

(Seems she is starting to not like much these days! She not only threw sweet potatoes on the floor tonight but spit them out! Um what. She loves them!)

We did find more food she loves . . . blueberries and cranberries! YUM!

I made a recipe in my baby cookbook this morning - old fashioned oatmeal with cinnamon and vanilla. Margaret loved it and even fed herself several bites. So proud of my big girl!!

This pretty much sums up our last few weeks. Wild and crazy!!! When Margaret was sick she started a new nap schedule that makes it VERY hard for mom to get anything done. Which means we have barely left the house.

Sweet Langston brought over some adorable summer outfits for us to try. We are all set for a fun trip to the Keys!

Margaret is waving and clapping. When I read a book that says clap your hands or patty cake, Margaret claps away.

Friday we said good bye to yet another tree . . . the huge palm tree that made a big mess (all over the yard thanks to the squirrels)

Over the next few weeks we are going from stark white to . . . ??? We have narrowed it down to a couple but man is it tough! Especially when I was told on Thursday I had to have a color picked out. Sounds easy . . . No way! Have you seen how many colors are out there!!!!!

Stay tuned for pics of our newly painted house.

Answer to Prayers

2011-01-07T08:58:00.002-05:00

After an exhausting morning at Wolfson's the other day, Dr Kim called to let us know everything looked great. It is a lymph node. Thank you Lord. After both of us in tears while they had to take blood from her tiny arm and holding her down to get her neck xrayed, we did not want to go back!

Another blessing . . . we made it to the doctor without dad running into the back of us :)

Now if we could only get these teeth in and get rid of this cold . . . we were reminded this morning that we do NOT miss the 2am wake ups anymore. At least after the feedings we all went back to sleep!

2011-01-04T15:01:00.004-05:00

This pretty much sums up our household the last few weeks!

It all started with daddy. Around Christmas he got a bad cough and cold. New Years Eve mommy got a lil bit of it but not as bad. Margaret's nose starting running a little at the same time but started really flowing when she woke up yesterday.

Poor thing has snot pouring out her nose and drool out of her mouth. Not fun having a cold and tooth 9 and 10 breaking!

We already had a doctors appointment to get a lump on her neck recheck so the doctor reconfirmed what we already knew . . . she has a cold. At first the suction bulb helped but now I can not keep up. So sad. She has taken many naps on mommy just so she can get some sleep. Hoping this will pass soon. However mommy's cold seems to be getting worse :(

(We went to get the lump rechecked and it is still there after 3 weeks. Dr Kim had a hard time trying to find out if it is part of the tissue or alone. We go back to Wolfson's tomorrow morning for an xray and blood work. We are hopeful it is nothing but it is better to be safe than sorry. Please pray for patience for our little wiggle worm and strength for her parents.)

Happy New Year

2011-01-04T14:39:00.003-05:00

We had the whole gang over for a low key dinner. Not sure who had more fun :)

Times sure have changed. . . everyone was gone by 9.

John and I sat outside by the chiminea for awhile until we couldn't stand to listen to all the kids in the neighborhood setting of fireworks anymore. We were going to go to bed but remembered we had one more level on Mario to beat. It had been almost 10 months since we played! Before we knew it, it was midnight! A very uneventful evening but a perfect one for us!

Yummy . . . getting the fixings started!

No matter where I put my bag, Margaret finds it and throws everything out!

The New Years feast . . . that we are still eating!

2011-01-04T10:54:00.002-05:00

Right before Christmas we went to Kline Cumming's first birthday party

Margaret had so much fun playing with Bebe Rosenbloom and all the other kids.

She played soooo hard and was beyond exhausted when we got home!

She loves to wave and points to almost everything!

Before Avery came we purchased these gates to keep the kiddos contained :) It has been a lifesaver for mommy!

Cooking in the kitchen Miss Langston brought over for Margaret to play with.

SNOW!

2011-01-04T10:38:00.002-05:00

The day after Christmas we looked out the window and couldn't believe our eyes.

We bundled up and went to play in the snow ;)

After all the excitement we went back into the warm house to put some toys together.

Thank you Aunt Liz, Uncle James and Aunt Mary Jane. I LOVE my new car!!!!

Miss Priss is ALL over the place and having fun!!

Christmas

2010-12-27T20:22:00.007-05:00

Santa came!

and so did Aunt Liz!!! We were so happy to see her! Lets make sure it isn't another 5 months until we see you again!

This year we had everyone over for breakfast

Margaret was in heaven! She LOVES this toy!! Her favorite thing to do this past week is to stand up! She has gotten so good at pulling up and standing on her own. Amazing how fast they learn.

She had more fun with the paper. She picked each piece out one by one.

One of her favorite things to do these days is to throw things over her shoulder!

The Alexanders stopped by and gave Margaret a matching sweater :)

After breakfast, we headed to Memo and Papa's. Margaret fell asleep in Uncle Dicks arms while Aunt Liz read to her :)

She took a long nap but woke up in time to play with lots and lots of paper!

Margaret had a great first Christmas and can not wait until next year.

After a busy day (and week with no sleep thanks to tooth 8), we all crawled into bed and fell fast asleep!

Christmas Eve

2010-12-27T20:02:00.003-05:00

Heading to Margaret's first Christmas Eve church service at St Marks.

It was a fun service for little kids and one that we will do year after year, until she is old enough for the 5pm service. We met Courtney and Langston (we missed you Harper!), Carter, Cheryl, Memo, Papa, Dick and Megan. Margaret loved watching all the people, especially the little ones and participated in everything :)

At 6, we headed to Mimi's for dinner.

Margaret had more fun with Catherine and Richard.

We did a Chinese gift exchange and Margaret got to participate.

Off to bed so Santa can come ;)

2010-12-27T15:24:00.003-05:00

We tried yogurt for the first time this past week. I was a lil nervous with her only being able to have soy formula but thank goodness she loved it and so did her body.

Getting excited for Santa :)

This is one of the reasons I fell in love with our house! Wish I had captured it when it was at it peaks but this year was by far the prettiest year.

Each year, Kirby and I do a gingerbread house.

Uncle John helped out so I could keep an eye not only on Margaret but on the candy. Kirby is famous for asking what each candy tastes like, even if he has tried it :)

This year was by far our best gingerbread house yet!

Memo found this dog for Margaret. It is so much fun. It sings and jumps!

They had a blast playing!

Cassidy Christmas Party

2010-12-27T15:15:00.003-05:00

The Sunday before Christmas, we headed out to the beach for a party at the Robbins. Margaret loved playing with Isla.

Not sure she was ready for how talkative Margaret is :)

2010-12-24T07:53:00.002-05:00

We are eagerly awaiting Santa's arrival. Even though Miss Margaret doesn't really know what is happening, we are super excited for her first Christmas. We have been waiting for this day for so long!

We are going to have the whole "Cassidy" family together this year. We haven't seen Aunt Liz since August 1 so it is going to be a wonderful weekend. She is not going to know what to think of Miss Margaret. She is crawling, walking with mommy's help, waving, talking, and smiles a lot to show her mouth full of teeth. We have been getting our 8th tooth in this week so we are off schedule. Up anywhere between 4 and 5, early and/or late morning nap, and sometimes an early and/or late afternoon, which means late to bed. I guess with it being Christmas this week it is working out staying up late but she has some BEYOND exhausted parents.

Wishing you and yours a wonderful holiday and thank you Lord for such amazing family and friends. Keep everyone safe as we are all traveling!

Off to get ready for my sweet nephew to come over. We are going to decorate our annual gingerbread house!

9 months!

2010-12-17T21:57:00.004-05:00

I know I say this each month but where has the time gone? It seriously feels like yesterday I was posting she was 8 months old. I apologize for not being a very good blogger but between decorating for Christmas, having house guests, Christmas shopping, parties, and not to mention keeping up with a 9 month old, I haven't had a second to relax.

We went for her checkup yesterday and everything is great. Dr Kim couldn't get over how much personality she had. She smiled, talked, shared her paci and showed her a mouth full of teeth. We now have 6 teeth with a 7th popping through!! Ugh!!!

She weighed 16lbs 8oz and is 27.5 inches

We are having so much fun. Margaret loves to crawl, walk (with our help of course), wave, share her toys, play "Where is Margaret?" and "How big is Margaret?". She especially loves to talk! Mama, Dadda, Tucker (she has an interesting way of saying it but we know she is trying :)

Fun visit from the Joyners

2010-12-17T21:37:00.006-05:00

Holly and I have grown up together since we were little. We went to elementary school, high school, college, traveled Europe and had girls 4 days apart. Unfortunately they live in Scottsdale so we do not get to see them very often but am so glad we had this fun visit.

Margaret was too excited and crashed while waiting for Miss Avery to get there.

They had more fun! I see many fun trips planned in the near future.

Santa was at TCC while they were here so we decided to go.

They were not real sure what to think

and quickly realized they would rather their mommy's hold them.

Bath time might be their most favorite time of the day. They had fun splashing and sharing the toys.

Thank you for coming Miss Avery and Aunt Hol. We had sooooo much fun and hope to see you again soon. XOXOXO

2010-12-17T21:16:00.003-05:00

Right after Thanksgiving, we had to get in full swing of decorating for Christmas. Dad left for three days so it was just us girls . . . and boy did it take FOREVER. It has been nonstop! Definitely nearly IMPOSSIBLE to get anything done. The internet has become my new best friend for gifts.

We have spent many days and nights by the fire trying to stay warm.

Margaret loves the tree. She is quickly learning the word NO :)

We had a couple of nights below freezing. So guess what that means . . . ICE FARM! Daddy's favorite!

She is such a ham. Love her to pieces.

She talks SO much

( she was actually in the middle of a sentence not frowning )

Margaret has been a good sport helping mom get ready for her first Christmas.

2010-12-17T20:43:00.003-05:00

Love the cooler weather and ALL the leaves. I can not take my eyes off of her or every single leaf you see in the picture would be in her mouth.

I think we are officially over the bouncy seat :)

We have had some VERY cold days in which we unfortunately had to go out and about. We are all snug and ready to brace the frigid air.

Not so sure she is a fan of winter . . .

unless we are inside.

With all the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it has worn this little girl out so much so she had to have an extra nap.

As she's off . . .

2010-12-05T21:34:00.003-05:00

well almost!

Last Monday, I started what has been a week long project of decorating the tree while Margaret and John were playing with her toys, so I thought. JB was actually trying to get Margaret to crawl. Well . . . he was successful! Thank goodness she hasn't taken off but she definitely is more mobile each day. Thanks dad! It is cute watching her though. She is crawling by putting her feet down first instead of her knees. We got a lil on video that I will try and post soon. Been busy getting everything ready for our house guests on Thursday. We can NOT wait to see Holly and Avery!

Giving Thanks

2010-11-26T09:17:00.009-05:00

We have so much to be thankful for this holiday season. Wonderful family, friends, an amazing husband and a happy baby girl.

Margaret and I were hard at work these last few days getting the house ready for Thanksgiving. She was such a trooper and behaved most of the time. If only she had taken more than a 30 minute nap!!

At least it was a long enough nap to get the centerpiece done. I am pretty proud of myself. Just wish it would stay like this forever!

I was a lil distracted while setting the table

which will explain why I set it wrong :) I realized it when we sat down to eat but no one said a word. It drove me crazy. Kept thinking to myself did I really just do this. Oh well!

May be next time instead of working on the centerpiece during her nap, I should set the table.

After getting the little one to bed, it was time to prepare the food! JB injecting the turkey with some HOT marinade. Next time I will not use the hot sauce it called for. Way too hot for me!!!

The roasted turkey soaking in the brine.

Thanksgiving morning, the Alexanders came over for breakfast. It was so much fun watching the cousins together.

Here goes nothing. . . This was not only our first Thanksgiving but first time ever cooking a Turkey. Definitely did not take as long as we anticipated but it was wonderful!

Daddy taking the fried turkey out. By the looks of it, we just knew it was going to explode like Lampoons turkey :)

Tada! The finished product!

We had soooooo much food to eat! Two turkeys, rice, gravy, cranberry sauce, sweet potato casserole, stuffing, green beans and biscuits!

Not to mention the fabulous dessert. Chocolate Chip Pecan Pie, Pumpkin Rum Cake and a yummy dessert Jenna dropped off. Thanks again Jenna!

It was so good to have MomB at our house for Thanksgiving and am glad she made the long trek into town. We enjoyed getting to spend time with her.

(Ok so the pictures downloaded in the wrong order)

Suppose to be . . . peakaboo (below pic) . . . There she is (above pic) :)

This pretty much sums up how we were by the end of the day . . . EXHAUSTED!

We couldn't have asked for a better day . . . (well if my family was here it would have been even better! Sure did miss you guys!!!) Thank you Lord for such a wonderful day and blessing us with such an amazing family! We love you all!!!