The Faulkner's

Guess What?!?

2012-01-25T12:40:00.000-08:00

We are excited to announce that we're expecting Baby Faulkner #2 on August 7th!!!

Bailey is so happy that she's going to be a big sister! Although, I really don't think she gets the full concept that another human being is going to join our family and disrupt her perfect little life! She loves all of the attention focused on her...so this is going to be a shock I believe!

A year ago I would've told you that I'm still not ready or that we have other plans... However, we faithfully prayed about this and God truly changed our hearts and minds. I believe Michael and I are just scared because of the complications I had with Bailey. We are trusting in God and believe He will take care of the baby and me. We've always wanted more than one kiddo...and the time has finally come! Twelve weeks down...only 28 to go! :) We'll fiind out the gender on March 21!

Fall & Halloween

2011-12-19T08:47:00.001-08:00

Chicago Marathon!

2011-12-19T08:03:00.000-08:00

No, I didn't run the marathon...my sister Laura did! :) (I'm not that crazy!) I went for support and it was awesome! First off, we took the Amtrak from Carbondale, IL to Chicago. The train ride up was a little sketchy because we were in coach. Ick. However, on the way back we were in business class and it was MUCH better!

There were four girls from Paducah that ran the marathon and there were four of us supporters that tagged along. This was my first time to Chicago and I loved it! I am ready to go back! We had perfect weather while we were there, which was nice because we had to walk everywhere we went. Our main focus was rooting on the girls for the marathon, but we did get to do some shopping on the Magnificent Mile...and it was magnificent!!!

I was so proud of the girls that ran the marathon! What a torturous thing to do to yourself! However, all of their training paid off and they all finished and had great times! It was truly inspiring to watch so many people push their bodies to the limit!

In coach, on our way to Chicago!

View from our hotel overlooking Lake Michigan.

At the expo. Me, Terri, Ashlea, and Lauren...the supporters!

Can you find Laura Grumley? They had all 45,000 names on a wall...wow!

The runners! Andrea, Molly, Laura, and Marra.

Race morning! Before they headed out we had to get a photo op of them!

The sign we had made for them!

And they're off! Amazing sight to see!

First point we saw them! Still in good spirits!

Second stop...they're in there somewhere!

This is the girls coming to meet us after the race. Take note of them in their socks. YUCK! Their feet were just a little sore. haha! :)

My sis and me. So proud of her!

We all wore pink so they could spot us easily along the route and it worked! We saw them four different points along the way. We logged over 16 miles ourselves just trying to meet up with them!

Celebrating at Gino's East Pizzeria!

Heaven on earth!

At Union Station. We were lucky enough to get carted around like royalty right to our business class train!

Coach Terri doing a plank on the train. She's crazy! :) What a great time!

September Vacation

2011-12-19T07:11:00.000-08:00

This post is long overdue.... Michael and I took Bailey to Destin this past September for vacation. Our good friends, Chad, Ali, and Logan joined us for the week! We had a great time and the weather was perfect. I'm convinced mid-September is the perfect time to go to Florida! We stayed at Waterscape in Ft. Walton Beach. It was an amazing place to stay...especially for the kids. They have a lazy river, a lagoon style pool with water toys, a heated circular pool, and a whole kiddie pool area with all kinds of toys to play on. They also have a great workout room that overlooks the lagoon pool and a Fudpucker's poolside bar and grill. We had a great week and I'm so ready to go back! Below are just a few pics...out of about 500 that we took!

It's Been a While!

2011-09-29T16:27:00.000-07:00

Well, I totally STINK at keeping my blog updated! I had a little prodding from one of my besties to get my blog updated ASAP! ;) So, I don't really know where to start because a lot has gone on since I last updated. But, here it goes. (Please overlook my grammar, run-on sentences...and anything else that a college graduate should know better! This blog post turned into a book!)

I want to start off by saying that sometimes I'm really turned off by blogs because every one's life seems "too perfect" and it sometimes makes me sick. However, I will say that this is going to be one of those blog posts... Currently, the Faulkner family is doing amazingly well and we have been blessed beyond measure. I honestly don't know if I've ever been this happy, satisfied, and loving life as much as I do right now. All I know is the Lord has his hand on us and has been oh so good to us!

So, here's the past few months in a nutshell... This summer we did a lot of swimming. Lexington has great pools that are kid friendly and clean. Bailey loves the water and I'm hopeful she'll be swimming on her own next summer! We took Bailey to see "Barney Live" at Rupp Arena in June. Let me tell you, she loved it, but Michael and I HATED it. It was one of the most painful things I've ever had to sit through. Ugh...never again! Michael and I took a trip to Birmingham for our friend's wedding, Elizabeth and Walt Doty. My parents kept Bailey so Michael and I could go down and enjoy ourselves. We had a great time visiting with friends, but most of all, we enjoyed spending quality time together...because that NEVER happens. We also celebrated our 9 year wedding anniversary in July. I'm blessed to have such a wonderful husband and daddy to B!:) Bailey did a 5 week summer school session at church. She had THE BEST teacher for that session. We will never forget Ms. Joni and I hope and pray Bailey is fortunate enough to get her next year in 4K preschool. Bailey is now fully potty trained. I swear to you, I thought this would NEVER happen. She had some issues going on that made it difficult, but with time and good advice from her doctor, she finally got it! We also finally converted Bailey's crib to a big-girl bed. I only did this because she mastered jumping out of her crib. I would've seriously kept her in her crib until she was 10 if she allowed it. However, she's doing great in her bed and we haven't really had any issues at all! We rewarded her with a trip to Ringling Brothers & Barnum Bailey circus in August. It was an amazing show...I think Michael and I liked it more than she did!

This August Bailey started 3K preschool at Southland, our church. She has wonderful teachers and Bailey loves going to school. They are already "trying" to teach her handwriting! They are doing the "Handwriting Without Tears" program. This has been kind of challenging...she's only 3! Anyway, Bailey has also started gymnastics. She loves it and it's perfect for her and all of her energy! She's in the "Lil Foals" class and we go each Monday. She's currently working on her back bend and cartwheel. :) Not sure yet if she's the next Mary Lou...the verdict is still out! haha!

I have been keeping very busy myself. First of all, FRIENDS, blessed beyond measure to have so many great friends! I can't imagine life without a support system of great girl friends! I'm still going to the gym almost every single day and LOVE it! My obsession in spinning! It's the most torturous workout ever, but it is also the best workout ever! I'm addicted...but I guess it could be worse! :) I've started teaching Sunday School at church. I'm teaching the four-year old class and we have between 50-60 kids during my hour. CRAZINESS!!! I'm still involved in HMA (Housestaff Medical Alliance). I'm on the children's committee and help plan events each month. I'm also in a group called "MUMS" at church (Moms Understanding Moms). This just started at the beginning of the month and I love it. We meet every other Thursday and they also have childcare. We eat, talk about mom stuff, have speakers, worship, and build community within our group. I'm going on a retreat at the end of October in Gatlinburg with the group and I'm super excited! I'm also in Side by Side. This is a Bible study group of resident, fellow and attending wives. We meet every other Tuesday and are currently studying the book of Ruth. I love this group of ladies and the fellowship and support it has given me.

Michael has been doing well. Thank goodness I have all of the mentioned above to keep me busy because daddy is NEVER home. He's had a horrible first three months in terms of busy rotations. He's been on the CCU, Cath Lab, and Night float...which are the three worst rotations..and he's had them back to back! Poor babe, he's doing well though. He needs sleep, and a lot of it! I'm so thankful I have such a hard-working husband who allows me to stay at home and raise our daughter. I can't imagine having to miss these important early years of her life...and I owe it all to Michael for allowing me to stay home. I love you! :)

Well, this is probably the worst written blog you've ever read. I tried to be quick and to the point. Oh yeah, another MAJOR event...my big sister, Amy, finally got married!!!! She has a wonderful new husband, Mark, and is a now a step-mother to Morgan and Blake...two amazing kiddos! The wedding was great and they are now happily married! (Michael and I took a trip to the beach too, but I'll make that a separate post.) Thanks for reading this book!

Bailey's 3rd Birthday

2011-06-25T16:22:00.000-07:00

Finally catching up on my blog. Below are photos of Bailey's 3rd birthday (which lasted like 5 days!), a carnival at church, and swimming!

Leah on a Horse :)

2011-06-25T14:55:00.000-07:00

Yep, that's me on a horse! I left it off of my last post. I thought it was pretty funny...I look scared to death! I look so natural...ha! ha!

KY Horse Park

2011-06-25T14:44:00.000-07:00

Last night UK had their annual "Welcome Picnic" for incoming residents and fellows at the KY Horse Park. We had a great dinner and then got to play! Bailey had a blast...she played on the playground, went on a pony ride and hayride, and mommy got to ride a horse! The horse park is BEAUTIFUL! This past Septbember it was home of the 2011 World Equestrian games.

Class pic and the Easter Bunny came!

2011-05-02T18:24:00.000-07:00

Bailey has had a wonderful school year at Southland Christian Church's Great Escape program. I can't believe school will be out in three short weeks! She has been blessed with five amazing teachers who love the Lord and my baby girl! We will miss them as she moves on to three year old preschool in the fall.

More pics of Easter. Apparently the Easter Bunny thinks he's Santa Claus. Hmmm. I've attached a video from that morning...first time to do that...so if it doesn't work it won't surprise me! I was bored and thought I'd try it out.The Zebra Class!

Checking out what te Easter Bunny brought her.

She LOVES this bunny my mom gave to ger.

For some reason she thinks she needs to close her eyes when I tell her to smile. That's my B!

I was unloading groceries from Wal-Mart and this is what Bailey did.

Huntin' Easter Eggs!

2011-04-26T18:17:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday HMA (Housestaff Medical Alliance) had their annual Easter Egg hunt at Meadowthorpe Park. We had a great time and Bailey got soooo much candy...she had a blast! We're still waiting for the warm weather to arrive though!

My sweet little devil of an angel! :)

Bailey, Julia, and Ellie climbing up the slide. They did this about 500 times.

She loves her little friends!

Lisa and Gus/Lars, Adair and her mother-in-law with Jack and Lucy!

Let the games begin!

So many eggs!

Possibly fighting over eggs. ha!

LOVE! Bailey and Adelyn hugging it out. After the pic, they fell down!

Impossible to get a group photo!

Jack & Lucy's first Easter Egg hunt!

The Rasmussen gals. Love them!

Bailey and Daddy having so much fun together.

Me and my girl!

Relaxing on the swing.

The Blomquist Family- Stav, Lisa, Gus and Lars

Super Mommy with Gus/Lars :)

Mmmm!

One of my favorite pics of my two favorite people!

Bailey and Adelyn monkeying around!

Getting ready for the hunt!

She's still! Annie captivates her attention. :)

New Post! :)

2011-04-08T18:27:00.000-07:00

Yes, I'm a slacker! I realize I haven't updated my blog in two months...but I've been kind of over my blog lately. Sorry! :)

Things have been going well and we've been pretty busy lately. I'm so glad spring is finally here. This winter was just AWFUL!!! I can't believe Bailey will be THREE at the end of May! Time is flying by. We're really working on potty training...and it hasn't been going so well. I have a very stubborn little girl! Anyway, Michael has been busy with work and enjoying it as much as possible... Oh yeah, I do have to brag on him. He as been named Chief Cardiology Fellow. It's a huge honor and I'm so proud of him. Other than that, we did buy a new car last week. We finally said good ridance to his 98 Civic!!! We purchased a 2011 Honda CR-V and I love it! I keep busy by being a gym rat these days. :) I don't know what I did before I joined the gym- I just love it! Bailey and I keep busy with playdates with our friends. We have truly been blessed with making so many amazing friends. Bailey and Adelyn hiding from us! Watching Annie together. Bailey's FAVORITE movie of all time! She can see the entire "Tomorrow" song...it is precious! I know what she's going to be for Halloween!

Crusin' in the Barbie car.

Bailey and Adeleigh at the park eating lunch together.

The girls and Eli feeding the ducks.

We went home last weekend and I got to babysit Carney (Caroline) for a while. I was getting ready and I covered her up to watch "Mickey Mouse." Love love love my Carney!

The Three Amigos with glow sticks MiMi gave them.

Where's Bailey and Caroline???

There they are! They love playing in Max's bed!

My new ride. :)

Bailey getting fitted for her flower girl dress. She just LOVED getting all dressed up. She's saying, "CHEESE!"

She felt like she needed her glasses on while she ate dinner.

Bailey and Logan checking out "big girl" panties.

They could've stayed in this aisle forever!

Hand in hand shopping at Target.

Michael and Roscoe. We were at our friends house in Bowling Green for the weekend and their dog is awesome!

Playing so well together. :)

Bailey and Baby Looooogan as Bailey calls her. Two little monkeys!

Lovin' the slide on this pretty spring day.

Cheese!

Bailey, Miss Rena and Charlie. Rena is one of my dear and close friends I've made here in Lexington. We're gym rats together. So sad that they're leaving for Raleigh in July. :(

Bailey loved this jungle gym!

Me, Bailey and Addison (and Miss Shay) having our first playdate outside of the season! Addison is pretty much my second daughter...love her to pieces!

Of course they found the big pile of dirty leaves!

Miss Kelsey (one of her teachers and our babysitter) sent this pic to me of Bailey at school. Having fun with a scarf!

My sick little girl. About a month ago she had the croup and then a sinus infection. She was one sick baby...and you know this by her sleeping in the car. That never happens! Thankfully, she's all better. :)

Max Playing Upward Basketball

2011-02-08T12:13:00.000-08:00

A couple of weekends ago Bailey and I drove to Paducah for the weekend to celebrate Caroline's 2nd birthday. On Saturday morning Max had his basketball game and we went to watch. It was adorable! He's now four years old and is getting so big! He was so excited that the whole family was there to watch. They turned out the lights and played "Let's Get Ready to Rumble!" They turn the spotlight on and call each player indvidually and they get to run out through the blow-up tunnel when their name is called. It's is precious! They had little cheerleaders too...that will be Bailey someday! Anyway, Max did a great job and we really enjoyed watching him play! I don't have pics yet of Caroline's birthday...but when I get them I'll post them. We had a great time at home...it's so nice to be around family!!! Max running out- but you can't really see him.

Little Buddy on the bench waiting his turn to go in! He's on the left side- second one from the end.

Auntie Amy and Bailey. She sat in her lap the whole time. What?!?! My child is NEVER still! I still think Amy put a spell on her. ;)

Yay Max! (action shot...ha!)

Amy, Mimi, Bailey, Laura, and Caroline...the birthday girl!

Bailey LOVES her Mimi!

His coach is helping him play by play.

I love my Max!

Miss Lauren and the girls. Bailey LOVES LOVES LOVES Lauren. And why wouldn't she?!?

Bailey's Lovely Hairdo Courtesy of Daddy

2011-02-08T11:52:00.000-08:00

Read what I wrote before you look at the pics. Funny story about B's hair. The front- looks okay...until she turns around!

Michael- "Does this look okay?"

This past weekend I was fortunate enough to fly down to Birmingham to visit friends. Michael's parents stayed with Bailey the majority of the time because Michael had to work and was on call. So blessed to have such wonderful in-laws! While I was there I was blasted for not updating my blog...so I promised I'd try and do better! :) (Yes, I'm talking to the Wigton's and Nicole. ha!)

My trip to B'ham was wonderful. I got to see so many great friends and it was just like old times. I stayed with Katie and Eric and they were wonderful hosts. This was my first time to EVER leave Bailey. Now, I've been away for a night here and there when grandparents wanted to keep her overnight..but I had never left the state on her. I thought I wouldn't really miss her much...but boy was I wrong. I missed that girl so much it hurt! I decided I could never leave her for a week and go vacation with just Michael. Can't do it yet...maybe when she's older...but not yet. It was great to have time away from her, but it was so weird because I missed my 24/7 job!

On Saturday Michael called me because he was going to take Bailey to church. (We usually go to church on Saturday nights- it's great!) Anyway, I told him what to put her in, what to put in her little bag, and I TRIED to tell him how to do her hair. The pictures explain themselves. Obviously this is not Dr. Faulkner's strong point... He texted me these pics and asked if they were okay. I laughed so hard I cried- ask Katie! I mean really? Have I EVER fixed her hair like that? I got a good laugh at poor Michael's expense. He did try hard and did the best he could. He's a great daddy to Bailey and husband to me. I love you Honey!!!

(pics soon to follow from by trip to B'ham)

Christmas 2010

2011-01-13T19:14:00.000-08:00

I know, I know...I'm REALLY late posting these Christmas pics. I've gotten pretty lazy about blogging, I'll try to be better! This year for Christmas Bailey and I drove to Paducah on Christmas Eve and stayed five days because Michael had to work. He was on call Christmas Eve and then one other day while we were gone. We hated to leave Daddy...but we didn't want to sit at home by ourselves! We celebrated Christmas on the Thursday before Christmas. Santa came to see Bailey and it was so much fun watching her rip through her presents. She also kept singing "Happy Birthday Jesus" which I thought was precious and it melted my heart! I'm glad the holidays are over with...I'm ready for summer!

Stir Crazy!

2010-12-16T18:56:00.001-08:00

Yes, I'm going stir crazy! It started snowing on Sunday night and we got about 5 inches...on top of the other four we already had! Then, late Wednesday night into early Thursday morning morning it started ICING! Bailey was out of school on Monday and Tuesday, but went on Wednesday. She doesn't go on Thursday or Friday's, but we usually go to the gym and she has a blast. However, since the schools are closed because of the ice, the gym has no childcare! So, we've literally been held up in our house all week long with the exception of Wednesday. Bailey and I are losing our minds, but we're trying to make the best of it! At least we're all healthy, have a nice warm house, and lucky enough to be able to stay home with her! I've been trying to keep her busy and not watch Barney 24/7! Ahhhh!!!! Did I mention I'm ready to move back down South!?!?! The snow was all pelted down by the ice. It was slick as snot! Michael slid down the driveway on his rear tonight to get the mail out of the mailbox.

Whoever said that making cookies with a 2 1/2 year old was a good idea is CRAZY! She loved it, but about drove me nutty with the mess she was making.

Having sooo much fun! She kept saying "I do that" and "Mommy, go over there." She didn't want me to help.

Using a cookie cutter for the first time.

The final product. I didn't get a picture of the cookie she decorated...just use your imagination! I iced the cookies on the left (for the most part) and Michael iced the ones on the right. Of course his look a lot better than mine do! He's an artist, I'm not! And yes, that's an ugly Mayfield Cardinal on one of the cookies! The rivalry continues.

Earlier in the day. Again, WHY do I let her paint? She was painting herself instead of the paper. The girl loves to get dirty and make messes!

Um sister, what's on your face???

Oh good, she rubbed her eye with her painted hand! Nice. And yes, she stayed in her pj's all day. Why get dressed...we weren't going anywhere. :)

Bailey and Miss Kelsey! This was B on Wednesday when I picked her up from school. They had pajama day and Bailey picked out Dora pj's to wear. Miss Kelsey is one of Bailey's teachers at school, as well as her babysitter. We love her!

These pictures are of a gymnastics playdate last Friday...before all of the major snow.

Bailey, Jean-Paul and Miss Moira. Bailey LOVES to swing on the bars.

Future gymnasts? I think so. Forget ballet...this is more her high energetic style!

Lovin' the rings.

She loved this blowup track. She ran and jumped her heart out!

My little monkey

Not still a second!

Tis the Season of Parties and Snow!

2010-12-08T11:08:00.001-08:00

A little explanation about the previous post: I did it for a Shutterfly promotion. If you made a blog entry about their Christmas cards then they would send you a promo code for 50 free Christmas cards. I couldn't pass that up- it saved me at least $100!

This past weekend Michael and I went to the Gill Heart Christmas party. We got to wine and dine with our friends, as well as some of the top Cardiologists in the country. It was a really nice evening and we had a lot of fun. We are so thankful to have found a great babysitter too! She is one of Bailey's teachers at preschool and she is just wonderful! Bailey loves her and seems to do really well.

Also, this past weekend it snowed Saturday, Sunday and Monday. YUCK! I am sooo over this weather already. This is exactly why I didn't want to move back here...but what's a spouse to do! :) We didn't let Bailey play in it because she had a bit of a runny nose and it was a really wet snow. They're calling for more snow this weekend, so maybe she'll have another chance. Oh boy! First family pic in a long time!

These are some of our really good friends we've made in Lex. Blury pic, we didn't know how to work our camera. We had a yummy dinner and THE BEST desserts ever!

Eric and Shay trying to working through the "12 Days of Christmas" for a prize. It was funny because we were all singing it at the table trying to figure it out.

Cal & Adair enjoying a night out from their month old twins!

Me and my wonderful husband.

Shay and I. Love her to pieces!

Adair and I. Love her to pieces too!

The Cardiology spouses except the second girl on the right- she's a third year Cards fellow (Andrea) and the girl on the end next to her (Lacey) is a cards nurse practioner.

Margaret & Joe. Such a sweet couple!

This is what we woke up to on Saturday morning. We got a whole lot more snow than this b/c it snowed all weekend! I HATE HATE HATE snow! :)

Bailey being a con-artist. At night right before bed she'll either get in my lap or Michael's lap and cover up with her blanket and watch tv with us. She knows EXACTLY what she's doing. It has worked b/c we love cuddling with her. If you know Bailey, you know she NEVER sits still or wants to cuddle. Always on the go and into something!

Bailey enjoying the snow. This was the Thursday BEFORE the big snow. We were in Wal-Mart for an hour and came out and our car was covered. We had thrown away our ice scrapers and shovels when we moved to B'ham...so I had to scrape the snow off with a magazine! How "southern" is that?!?! We now own a shovel and two ice scapers, I will say. :)

Bailey stylin' in mommy's rain/snow boots.

Shutterfly gets my business!

2010-12-06T16:32:00.001-08:00

It's hard to believe that Christmas is just a few weeks away! Where did 2010 go!?! The Christmas season always brings busy schedules, shopping, wrapping presents, parties, spending time with family and friends, and of course, Christmas cards!!! This year the Faulkner family will be using Shutterfly to help with the creation of the perfect Christmas card. I have been on Shutterfly's website and have found TONS of cute and classy cards. I think I've narrowed it down to one...but I can't share that with you or it will ruin the surprise! :)

I'm always so relieved at how easy it is to use Shutterfly. They give you step-by-step instructions, and it's pretty much fool-proof. I'm always so thrilled at how all of my creations have turned out with Shutterfly. Last year I made my parents calendars with pictures of Bailey, Max, and Caroline on it. They loved it...and so of course, they'll be getting one again this year! I also created a book documenting Bailey's birth. It starts out with a picture of me and Michael telling our parents we're pregnant, to me in the hospital, to Bailey being born and her NICU stay, and then finally her homecoming. I will always cherish that book and plan to make many more "memory" books with Shutterfly.

If you haven't checked out Shutterfly lately you should visit the following sites:
http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/christmas-photo-cards

http://www.shutterfly.com/calendars/desk-calendars

http://www.shutterfly.com/cards-stationery/birthday-cards-stationery

We are very excited to complete our Christmas cards and get them mailed out! Shutterfly always has a fast turn around time, so you have plenty of time to create one too!

Merry Christmas!

Happy Fall!

2010-11-01T12:00:00.000-07:00

I guess it's time for my monthly post! :) Bailey is talking non-stop these days and says the funniest things! She LOVES going to school and to church. Michael and I finally got a couple of babysitters so we could have some time away from our little munchkin. We finally got involved with a small group in our church...aka "life group." We went to a Chris Tomlin concert an it was AMAZING! We could've listened to him sing all night! Michael was on vacation these last two weeks. We had big plans of painting some rooms in our house...but that didn't happen because we all got nasty colds! So, we pretty much laid around miserable together. However, we're all better now and life is good! I'm finally getting content with my life here in Lexington and realizing this is exactly where God wants us to be! Who can argue with that!

Punkin' Patch

2010-10-02T18:12:00.000-07:00

This morning Michael and I took Bailey to Boyd Orchard in Versailles. On the way out to the orchard we passed beautiful horse farms and Bailey loved seeing the pretty horses. We met up with our good friends, the Wallace's, and Bailey had a blast with her buddy, Addison. Perfect "punkin" pickin' weather!
She loved sitting on the pumpkins. That couldn't be comfortable!

B and Addison have a wonderful time together.

The girls and their daddy's.

Wagon ride...that lasted all of two seconds!

Up the haystacks she goes...again and again.

She loved this slide.

There she goes again!

Fun pirate ship

Sliding down a tunnel

The corn maze

Having a blast!

Bailey LOVED this donkey...and I think the donkey loved her.

Can we take him home mommy? Daddy loves him too!!!

My new buddy. He smiled for his picture!

Fun day at the farm!

Bailey found the bunco crown and boa. My little princess.

Cousins = TROUBLE! :)

At the Grumley's for a bonfire cookout. We roasted hot dogs and had smores. Fun night!

Little Diva playing soccer in her dress-up shoes.

Cousins Cole and Gage came for a visit. She calls them "ColeGage."

Pics of House

2010-09-04T10:48:00.000-07:00

Katie, these are for you. :) I FINALLY took pics of our new house for everyone to see. They aren't the greatest quality b/c I took them with my iPhone, but they'll do! Also, my house isn't completley picked up and nice and neat. (just a warning) We are really enjoying our house, but we have a lot we still want to do to it...like paint, landscape, buy a new bedspread, patio furniture...etc. I wish money grew on trees! They forgot to plant one of those trees in our backyard! ;) Please come for a visit anytime in Bluegrass Country!
Master bedroom. Please don't look at my awesome bedspread. ha! And yep, there she is, my ever so faithful treadmill!

The double doors are Michael's closet. I have the walk-in closet off of our bathroom.

Master bath. Potty is in a little room off the the left all by itself...which is nice!

Hall bath- aka Bailey's bathroom

Guest bedroom with the huge king size bed...per my mom's request.

Bailey's room

Nice size storage attic off of B's bedroom and her closet is to the right.

Hallway. Washer and dryer are in a closet to the left.

Entrance. Immediate left is opening to garage, door on left is half bath, and opposite half bath is a nice size coat closet (and tornado shelter). :)

Living Room (excuse the mess!)

Dining Area

Bar- that's messy!

Kitchen with pantry

Another view of the living room- couch is on the right agains the wall.

Backyard with a nice hill for sledding!

Secret Weapon

2010-09-04T10:42:00.000-07:00

TARGET POPCORN!!! Ms. B LOVES some Target popcorn. This little weapon can provide mama at least an hour...if not more, of peaceful shopping. It's the little things. :)
We're learning to chew with our mouth closed. ha!

Just Playin'

2010-09-04T10:28:00.000-07:00

Bailey LOVES to dress up and play with her baby dolls! No doubt I have a "girly girl"! I never played with dolls when I was little...but she loves them! And, she loves to talk on her cell phone and carries on hilarious conversations with some imaginary people! Getting all geared up.

Almost ready.

Ready to go with baby in tow! (I think she's trying to imitate me.)

Ready for a playdate with her BFF Addison!

They are two peas in a pod!

Having a snack together. So thankful for new friends! :)

Yay for Preschool!

2010-08-18T18:12:00.000-07:00

Bailey started 2 year old preschool at our church this past week. She goes every Monday,
Tuesday, and Wednesday from 9-12. Each morning I leave her she cries, but when I pick her up she's having a grand ole' time! Her teachers say that once I'm gone, she's fine! The three hours fly by for me. I've been able to run errands and get things done without my little side-kick!

Also, some of the pictures below show you some of Bailey's new toys! We got her a bouncer for her birthday, but we weren't able to give it to her because it was packed up on the POD. We also got her an 8 foot trampoline, a playhouse, and a slide for the backyard. She LOVES to be outside.

Michael is still studying for his Medicine boards. He takes them next Thursday...praise the Lord! Please say a prayer for him!

Waking Bailey up...first day of school! I think I've woken her up maybe three times her whole life! :(

Cheese! Going to school!

Picking her up...she's fine!
Who needs a swimsuit when you can swim in your clothes!

So much fun!

New playhouse!

Get that energy out!

Checking out her new toy!

Mr. Tito says, "Hi!"

Rainy Saturday = Bouncer in the house!

She got hot in her pj's...

Splish Splash!

2010-08-06T10:49:00.000-07:00

Bailey and I have had so much fun swimming this summer! We recently found a great water park in Nicholasville that has a great splash pad and huge pool! We're also so happy to be making such wonderful friends!Bailey and Addison holding hands as they're leaving the pool. Precious!
Having a snack together and becoming fast friends! :)

I wish you could've heard their sweet little giggles!

Bailey got a "boo boo" and you would've thought it was the end of the world! My "tough" girl isn't so "tough" anymore!!! :)

In her element!

Chillin' with her sunglasses and poodle purse on the way home from church.

Ready for church! Cooking mommy some breakfast first, of course.

Cheese!

We do exist!!!

2010-07-22T11:52:00.000-07:00

Whew...July has been a BUSY month! We FINALLY got to move into our new house in Lexington- and LOVE it! Bailey is doing wonderful! She keeps saying "new house" and "new room." Michael is liking his Cards Felloship...as much as he can. :) We have met some really nice friends and I've gone to several playdates and a bunco! Just like JCRMA in B'ham, we have an alliance here in Lexington too! The only thing missing is Side by Side and CMMA! :( We're excited though about our church and hope to get involved and meet some great friends there.

I pretty much had our house unpacked in about 2 days. Those of you who know me know how anal I am! I can't stand a mess...even though the house is still a mess...but I'm living with it. My parents are coming Saturday and my mom is going to help me decorate!

Bailey and I have been going to a fun pool in Lexington. It's got a huge pool with a big slide, two diving boards, and zero entry. And, they have a whole seperate kids pool- it's awesome! It's got a little mini park in the water and Bailey loves it!

I am so glad this whole move is over and life can resume to normal! Come and visit- we have plenty of room!

2 Year Pics

2010-06-16T17:34:00.001-07:00

Today Mimi and I took Bailey to Sear's to get her pictures made. This was the best photo session we ever had! Bailey was such a good girl and posed like a little model. It was unlike any photo session we'd ever done- no crying and screaming! :)

We're still in Paducah living with my parents. Thanksfully, time is flying by and we're hoping to move to Lexington in about four weeks. (fingers crossed) My parents have been awesome and Bailey loves being here. My dad takes Bailey to see the "choo choo train" and "fire truck" every single night. Michael's parents have been keeping Bailey one day a week and that's been nice! Michael has driven up here twice since we've been up here...he misses us like crazy and we miss him like crazy! Hopefully this crazy transition will end soon and we'll finally get settled!

Bailey's 2nd Birthday

2010-06-03T12:53:00.001-07:00

Last weekend we went back to Birmingham to tie up some loose ends. Bailey had her two year check-up...and that was a blast! NOT! She was not on her best behavior to say the least. Some stats: she weighed 21 lbs., 8 oz. (5th percentile) and she's 32 in. long (15th percentile). I thought her doctor might put her on a food supplement, but she didn't.

Saturday we celebrated her 2nd birthday with all of her closest friends at Pump It Up in Pelham. It was a huge inflatable place and the kids (and adults) had a blast!

We're now officially "homeless"....living with my parents while Michael is living with the Wigton's in B'ham. I'm taking it day by day, but thankful that we at least have a place to stay and Bailey is doing well!

Lots going on!

2010-05-25T12:12:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since I last blogged...so I'll catch you up on what's been going on with us! As many of you know, Michael and I sold our townhouse. Woo Hoo! We moved out on May 1 and rented a furnished corporate housing apartment in Hoover. I'll spare some details...but long story short, Bailey did not adjust well at all. In fact, we believe this whole move truly traumatized her. She stopped eating and sleeping and turned into a little monster! So, one morning I couldn't take it anymore and decided that we needed to come on home to my parents house in hopes that it would provide her some sense of normalcy. It was a tough decision because we had to leave Michael and I didn't have time to say goodbye to many of my friends. However, I knew I had to put Bailey first and take care of her.

It's been a full week home now and Bailey is back to her normal sweet self! She is eating and sleeping like a champ!!! She's so happy and just loves it at my parents house. I without a doubt made the right decision to come on home.

On Thursday we are actually travelling back down to B'ham. My sister, niece, and nephew are coming back with us. I had to come back to help Michael pack up the POD, Bailey's 2 year check-up, her birthday party, and to say goodbye to my sweet friends! This trip will be so hard on me because I know we're not coming back (at least for a while) and the life as we've known it is now over. One chapter closes and another one will open!

In the meantime, Michael will be living with Eric and Katie. He'll have a week off at the end of June and then he starts at UK on July 1. We are keeping our fingers crossed that our house will be ready by June 30! It's been a crazy summer already...but we're making it!

MiMi bought Bailey a new tricycle when we got home! Loves it!

Surprise Adair!!!

Adair's surprise baby shower/going away party...she hadn't arrived yet.

Katie, Areta, Elizabeth, me. I will miss these girls sooo much!

Bailey sleeping on the couch when we got home. She wouldn't sleep in her bed for Nana and Granddaddy. After this picture she rolled off the couch and was awake until 4 am. Fun times!

Bailey and Margot eating lunch at the pool.

Loves the pool!

Baiey & Margot...more like sisters!

Splish Splash!

Bailey kept drinking pool water- yuck!

The Three Amigos- Bailey LOVES Charlie. She can't keep her hands off of him. :)

The day I left my house. :(

FREDDY! He's smiling! (The Bower's cat)

Auntie Areta & Auntie Elizabeth lovin' on Bailey

Bailey DID NOT want her picture taken!

Our sweet friends threw us a going away bbq! Love these chicks!

My little rascal.

My BFF (Katie) and I. Bailey's going in for the close up!

Mr. Tito helping me pack up. He DID NOT want me to pack his toys!!!

Our New House!

2010-04-27T08:46:00.000-07:00

Here is our new house in Lexington! Our realtor finally sent us pictures of the progress...and it's gone up quickly! We are getting excited and can't wait to get more updates on our house!

Spring Fun!

2010-04-21T12:07:00.000-07:00

We've been pretty busy lately... Playdates in the park, going to the zoo, jumping at bouncey gyms, hanging out with friends, Bible study... it's been rough lately. :) Just kidding! Bailey and I have had lots of fun together and it's been so fun watching her learn and experience new things. (I still have a husband, but he's always at work and doesn't really get to experience all of these fun things. Sad.)

Anyway, we've got less than two weeks before moving out of our townhouse. I've been packing things up and getting ready for the move. Even though this is so chaotic, I am so grateful and thankful we've sold our house! I can't wait to move into our little corporate furnished appartment! Ha!

Trip to Paducah

2010-03-31T19:17:00.000-07:00

Bailey and I spent a week and a half in Paducah while Michael was on night float. She had lots of fun playing with her cousins, Max and Caroline. Her grandparents-both sets-spoiled her rotten...which is good, but now we're dealing with the consequences. :) Little Miss Bailey has gotten good at throwing tantrums when she doesn't quite get her way!

While we were there we also all caught colds. It was one big snot factory! I think we used two boxes of kleenex with kids. Anyway, we had a great time, but it's nice to be back home and we're hoping to get to see daddy in a couple of days! Night float is for the birds!

Under Contract!

2010-03-14T19:03:00.000-07:00

Yes, our house is officially under contract! I still can't believe it...but it is! With all of the inactivity we've had on our house I thought for sure we'd move to Lexington and still own a house in B'ham. I am obviously thrilled and relieved that someone is going to buy our house!

So, last Sunday...a week ago today...I got hit with that viscious stomach bug that Bailey had. It was awful, but I survived. :) Michael's wonderful parents came down and took care of Bailey while I laid in the bed until Wednesday. I also owe a huge "thanks" to Worth Bowers for coming over and giving me iv fluids to get hydrated again. It's so nice to have doctor friends!

Anyway, last Monday our agent called about 11:30 am and said that the girl that had looked at our house a week ago wants to come back for a second look 3:30 pm. So, somehow I drug my sick body out of bed, took a shower, and got my room cleaned up. Michael and his parents cleaned the rest of our house and it looked awesome! My realtor said to make sure that my house didn't smell like Lysol. ha! ha! (They obviously didn't know my house was infested with the stomach bug germs!) Long story short, this girl was at our house FOREVER and I was dying to just get back in bed. We didn't hear anything that afternoon, but Sally, my amazing realtor, called Tuesday and said that the girl is going to make an offer. Yay! We finally got an offer that afternoon and it was RIDICULOUS!!!! I didn't think it was going to work because she pretty much wanted our house for free...seriously. However, after a few days of counter offering, both parties reached an agreement!

If all goes well we are closing on April 30 and she will take possession of our house on May 3. Michael and I have to find some sort of temporary housing for the remaining 8 weeks that we'll be here. I'm thinking we'll move into corporate housing that's furnished and ship our entire house to Lexington and move it into a storage unit. STRESS!!!! But, I'll take this stress over the stress of having not sold our house by time we leave. :)

All I can say is God is so good! He is so faithful and does provide! What a mighty God we serve!

A visit to the ER...

2010-03-06T19:20:00.000-08:00

On Friday morning we finally had had enough and took Bailey straight to the ER. She slept all night-which was great- but she didn't have a wet diaper for the 13 hours while she was asleep. Also, she threw a MAJOR tantrum once she got out of her crib. She screamed for probably 30 minutes with no tears...and Dr. Daddy said, "Let's go."

We get to Children's ER and she got so worked up that she threw up all over herself, her daddy, and the nurse. :) Luckily, I was filling out paperwork when this occurred. So, long story short, we got her in there and they took one look at her and checked her vitals and said that was extremely dehydrated. So, they gave her a sub-q iv in her back because the little veins in her arm were too dehydrated and they blew when he tried to put the iv in there. Having the iv in her back was...awful! She was in lots of pain and couldn't get comfortable because she could feel the pressure of the fluids coming in her back. They also took a couple of x-rays of her belly to make sure there was no obstruction. Finally, after I pretty much begged the doctor to give her something to calm her stomach, they did- and it worked. (You have no idea of the odor in our little er room...unimaginable...that's all I'm gonna say.)

Once we got her tanked with fluids and medicine, we got to take her home. My parents, MiMi and Granddaddy, drove all the way down here to be with their baby- which was the perfect medicine! Today, Saturday, she is feeling so much better. She's not 100% by any means, but we're on the road to recovery I believe. We have to follow up with her pediatrician on Monday to make sure she's well hydrated, etc.

I do have a few quick tips/pointers/things to say... First off, I took Bailey to see her peds doctor last Thursday for diarrhea- about a week and half ago. She told me it's just viral and she'll be okay. Sunday she threw up for 12 hours and I called the doctor back. She said there's nothing they can do- it has to run it's course. Wednesday we called the doctor back and explained the horrible diarrhea Bailey was still having and they once again said just keep her hydrated and she'll be fine. WRONG!!! FYI- There IS something they can give for vomiting (Zofran) and there is something they can give for diarrhea (Levsin). Anyway, my point is, if you feel like your child is deathly ill- bypass your incompetent doctor's office and go the the ER where something can get done. If we weren't leaving in a few months I would leave Greenvale Pediatrics so fast it would make your head spin! I'm not a happy camper with them right now and thank goodness Michael can go with us on Monday because I have a feeling things may get a little heated! I don't like the fact that my baby was just "brushed off."

The pictures below show you how ill my baby was. If you know her, you know this is NOT like her. She's never still a minute! :)

On Wednesday- feeling lousy.

Her little belly was so distended. :(

Thursday- She was just moaning and groaning on the floor. Tito was trying to get her to play with him.

Saturday- feeling a lot better. MiMi went out and bought her some new shoes (and a hula hoop)and she wanted to try them on. She had her pj's on with the feet- so that's why she's naked. :) We are so thankful she's feeling better and we also thank MiMi & Gdaddy for coming to help take care of her! The perfect medicine!

Stomach Bug- Go Away!

2010-03-03T19:09:00.000-08:00

Miss Bailey has been battling some sort of a stomach bug now for over a week and half! It started out with "dirty" diapers and then Sunday she threw up for 12 hours straight...and she's still having "dirty" diapers. Michael and I are pretty worried about our baby girl and hope this passes soon. We're worried she may be getting dehydrated because she's not wanting to drink much and she's not eating anything. This little bug has knocked my hyperactive-bouncing-off-the-wall little girl flat on her back! It's been so sad to see her in so much pain and misery. The doctor did say this virus is going around like crazy and has been lasting up to 14 days. Yikes!

If you will, please say a prayer that she gets better soon! I'm ready to have my "wild child" back! :)

Trip to McWane Center!

2010-02-25T12:36:00.000-08:00

Last week Robin and I took Bailey and Anna to the McWane Science Center. Bailey and I had never been before and it was so much fun! As you can imagine, Bailey was EVERYWHERE! She had such a good time and we hope to go back soon! I'm a puppy dog!

Anna & Bailey playing with the Legos.

Bailey doesn't realize it yet, but she's going to go to college on a golf scholarship. (If her daddy has anything to do with it!)

Flippin' & floppin' on the mats

Hopping out of a car

Running everywhere on the miniature golf course.

Hanging out in the bus

Collecting her groceries at the store- so neat!

Driving the cool car!

You can't see this, but she is "cheezing" at a little boy!

Jumped off this thing about 500 hundred times!

Sweet Anna & Bailey having such a good time playing together.

Watching the bubble float up in this cool tank.

FISH!

Enjoying all of the neat fish.

Valentine's Party

2010-02-17T12:21:00.001-08:00

Last weekend we had a little Valentine's Party with our little Valentine's! They had fun playing together and eating some great snacks. Thank you Kim for such a wonderful party!

I know I haven't blogged in a while, but things have been pretty busy. Two weekends ago we travelled to Lexington to house hunt. Being back in Lexington felt a little like home...as much as I really hate to say and admit it! (Birmingham still really feels like home!) We did find a house...well not really a house...we found a lot to build a house. We actually have signed a contract and put down some earnest money on a lot. However, this is all contingent on selling our house here. We are just praying and trusting in the Lord that everything will work out...which it will....because God is in control!

The house selling has been VERY slow!!! We've only had one showing, but we did have an open house where 5 couples came. Nothing has come out of that though. We're just WAITING and PRAYING that it sells quickly.

Other than that, Michael's been working and moonlighting like crazy! Bailey and I have been keeping busy with playdates, shopping, Kid's Gym and Wednesday morning Bible study at Briarwood. One thing is for sure, we have been so blessed with greatest friends in the world!

Some of the JCRMA Mom's & Tot crew with their kiddos.

Bailey couldn't wait to come and play with her Valentine, Jack!

All of the kiddos playing away.

Bailey munchin' on some crackers and apple.

Mommy & Bailey...I wish she didn't look so happy! :)

Excuse me, I'm trying to eat!

Bailey, Anna, Jack and either Sydney or Savannah. (Can't tell them apart!)

Having a snack on mommy's bed after her nap. She and Tito enjoy snacks together everyday!

Pardon her nice hairdo.

Jump!

2010-01-29T18:25:00.000-08:00

Today Micahel and I took Bailey to Pump It Up in Pelham. It's filled with inflatables that kids and adults can jump on! The Thompson's met us there and I think the guys had more fun jumping than the kids did! :) down she goes!
going through the little maze

up she goes- all by herself!

daddy's making a funny face. jack's making sure bailey's okay. :)

wild hair!

bailey's chasing jack!

ben's in the background doing front flips...and then michael had to do one. ha!

here i go!

not still a second.

daddy had so much fun playing with his little girl today.

Mommy & Me Class

2010-01-19T13:26:00.001-08:00

Today Bailey and I went to our second "Mommy & Me" gymnastics class. It's not really gymnastics...it's more or less playtime at the Kid's Gym in Vestavia. Miss Wendy, her teacher, has a few "structured" moments in the class, but for the most part she's running around like a crazy person! She loves this place and I do to!

Miss Wendy helping Bailey walk on the balance beam.

She LOVES the slide!

But, probably loves the trampoline more!

Bailey's sweet friend, Bella. They are almost exactly the same age.

Riding the track on a battery powered car. She wasn't too sure of it.

So, she decided to jump off while the car was still going and give Miss Wendy a heart attack! My child is FEARLESS!

Bailey and one of her classmates rocking on the boat.

Wee- so fun!

Having some lunch after such a fun morning.

Laura, Max, Lauren & Hunter came down this past Saturday to go see 101 Dalmations at the BJCC. Laura got such a deal- 5 tickets for $5! So, they had to make the long trip from Paducah to Birmingham to see the wonderful Broadway show! (They are getting ready to go back to KY in this pic.) boo hoo.

Lauren & Hunter...notice the lady in the background...she was coming to scold me for taking pictures! No cameras were allowed- whoops!

Laura & my buddy, Max. He had such a good time and sat in my lap for some of the show. Corella really scared him. :(

Christmas in KY

2010-01-03T19:17:00.000-08:00

We had such a great time in KY visiting both of our families. Santa was way too good to Bailey...we almost needed a Uhaul to come back home! The highlight of my trip was the night before Christmas Eve- Michael took Bailey to his parents house to spend the night! So, I got a whole night to myself and had a wonderful night's sleep! I did miss my baby though and was glad to see her the next day. :)

Christmas Fun

2009-12-18T08:13:00.000-08:00

We've been pretty busy lately with playdates and Christmas parties! Bailey is finally feeling so much better...it's nice to have my buddy back! :) Merry Christmas!

The Tubes Are In!

2009-12-08T18:25:00.000-08:00

Bailey finally got tubes in her ears yesterday! Dr. Wiatrak, a pediatric ENT at Children's South Hospital, put them in. We had to be there yesterday morning at 7:15 and we were gone by 9:15. However, the surgery only took 7 minutes from the time the nurse took Bailey away from us to the time Dr. Wiatrak came to our room! I was amazed at how quickly it went! Bailey did great! She was groggy for maybe 10 minutes, and then was back to her normal fiesty self! We are so thankful the tubes are in her ears and hopefully it'll solve all of her ear infections.

Mommy putting on her little hospital gown. :(
Daddy taking Bailey for a ride on the hospital floor.

Waiting, waiting, and more waiting. She's was ready to GO!

Surprise!!!

2009-12-06T19:22:00.000-08:00

On Friday night my friends threw me a 30th surprise birthday party! I was SO SURPRISED and shocked! I've never had anyone throw me a surprise party! Apparently,about a month ago, Katie, my best friend, told Michael she wanted to throw me a surprise party. LOVE HER! So, they had been scheming for a while and I had no clue. On Friday night Katie, Nicole, and myself were going to go to dinner to kind of celebrate my birthday. I didn't want to make a big deal about it because I'm not much on being the center of attention. :) Katie said she'd call a few of our friends to come...but later she had said that everyone was busy and it was just going to be she and Nicole. I was totally fine with that- I was just looking forward to nice peaceful dinner where I didn't have to cook or clean up!

So, Friday night came. Before I walked out of the door I pulled a pizza out of the oven for Michael and Bailey to eat. I gave him strict instructions on what she was to eat, etc. :) As I was walking out of the door Michael said, "Is Eric home? I need to ask him an Opthamology question. I had this neat case today and I really want to ask him about it." My response was, "Can this not wait until tomorrow? I want to go and Bailey needs to eat." He said, "No, I really need to talk talk to him." So, he grabbed Bailey and we all three went marching over to Katie and Eric's. I walk in to their kitchen and everyone yells "SURPRISE!" It was truly one of the best things anyone has ever done for me! All of my friends were there and everyone brought yummy food to eat. I am so thankful and blessed to have THE BEST friends in the world. I don't know what I'd do with any of you! I love you all!!!

And yes, this is Michael's first secret he's ever kept from me! Amazing! ;)
Katie's fabulous cupcakes she made!

18 Months Old

2009-12-01T19:12:00.000-08:00

Yesterday Bailey turned 18 months, and I turned the big "3-0"! We had a great day celebrating our birthday's. Michael took me to see The Radio City Rockettes and that was so much fun! I owe a big "thank you" to Aunt Katie for babysitting Miss B! :) It was nice to have a date with Michael!
Today we actually went to the doctor for a "well child" visit. That doesn't happen often! Anyway, she was a RASCAL and I was worn out by the time we were finished. She weighed in at a whopping 20 lbs., 11 0z, which puts her in the 5th percentile. She is 31 1/2 inches long and is in the the 50th percentile. The doctor said she wasn't worried at how little she weighed, which was a relief. She got her H1N1 shot today and has to go back in a month for her Hep A shot and the second dose of the H1N1.
Thursday we go see Dr. Wiatrak, a Pediatric ENT at Children's South, for a consult visit. Bailey has finally qualified for tubes in her ears! Hopefully we can get this scheduled for the next week or two! Say a prayer for her please!!!

Kid's Gym

2009-11-15T20:19:00.001-08:00

On Friday our Mom's and Tot's group had a playdate at the Kid's Gym in Vestavia. Bailey LOVED it! I wish I had a place like this in my house! I see a little gymnist in our future. :)

Supper Club Cutie Pies

2009-10-30T20:29:00.000-07:00

Tonight Michael and I hosted our monthly neighborhood supper club. We had to take a few pics of the sweet baby girls all dressed for Halloween! (Actually, I had to change Bailey in her Halloween dress because she wasn't festive like the rest!) Ellie, Bailey, Caroline, and Ruby (our newest edition!)
How cute are they!?!

Bailey and Ellie playing "peek-a-boo"- hilarious!

Amanda and Ruby- 8 weeks old today!

Aunt Katie and Caroline and Aunt Ashley and Bailey

Bailey kept begging Ashley to pick her up and hold her all night long. At one point she was screaming bloody murder for her! Now that's a change for once! :)

The girls eating their chicken patties, corn, peas and grapes. Yum! Yum!

Miss Bailey loves "cheesing" for the camera these days.

Bailey eating candy corn. Is that wrong? :)

Bailey's all dressed up for her second doctor's appointment in 11 days! Her ear infection is not yet gone. However, the hole in her eardrum is healed. She's now on another antibiotic for the next 10 days....again. I have a feeling tubes are in our future!

JCRMA Halloween Party

2009-10-25T19:38:00.000-07:00

It's been a while since my last post. Last week...well...almost two weeks ago now...Bailey and I went to Paducah for the week. My parents were on fall break so Bailey got a lot of Mimi and Granddaddy time! We also spent a lot of time with Laura, Max and Caroline...who were so sick the entire week! I knew since they were sick, Bailey was going to get sick. Sure enough, by Friday Bailey's nose was running...and here we go! Over the weekend she was fussy and had a low grad fever and this past Tuesday morning she woke up and had blood coming out of her ear. You guessed it, another ear infection! So, we've pretty much been hold up in our house this past week. She's feeling a lot better and we actually got to go to JCRMA's Halloween Party, which was so much fun! She dressed up as a pink poodle...of course! Oh yeah, and Mimi also got Bailey to finally start wearing bows! :) However, if you don't watch her, she'll pull them out! She's a little tomboy.

Family Fun!

2009-10-03T20:01:00.000-07:00

We really haven't been up to much since coming home from vacation. Michael has been off a lot due to his "easy" rotation. :) We've been enjoying doing things as a family and spending quality time together. However, as of this past Friday, we're back to reality. Michael's on call every 4th night. Boo!

More beach pics!

2009-09-19T19:19:00.000-07:00

We had a great time in Destin. Overall, the weather was great...with the exception of two days. Bailey loved the oceon and the pool! We are so thankful and blessed that we were able to take a much needed family vacation this year!

Lovin the Beach

2009-09-15T19:37:00.000-07:00

First Day at the Beach!

2009-09-13T19:29:00.001-07:00

Bailey doesn't like the beach...she LOVES the beach! She ran 90 mph to the ocean when we let her down. I've never seen a baby that loved the ocean as much as she does! She fell and swallowed more water than I could count...but that didn't matter to her! She was giggling and smiling the entire time. So much for a relaxing day at the beach though! I'm sure we gave everyone good entertainment while our wild woman was on the loose.

We are having a great time in Destin. They are calling for storms all week- so I'm hoping they're wrong. Tonight we ate at The Donut Hole and it was delicious! I may gain 10 pounds by the end of the week!

We had the pool all to ourselves. No one is here!

As you can see the crowds are small! This is a great time to vacation- feels kind of weird with no crowds.

Going a little stir crazy!

2009-09-13T19:09:00.000-07:00

This past week Bailey was still getting over her sickness and I was fighting it! We pretty much stayed in the house so she would be well for our trip to Florida! By the end of the week we both were going stir crazy...but it was lots of fun hanging out with my baby girl. Bailey's cousin, Ben, gave her her first "Build-A-Bear"- Emily. So sweet! They came for a quick weekend visit.

Making one heck of a mess with spaghetti!

Do I have something on my face? :)

Tito reaping the benefits of Bailey trying to eat with a fork! He was licking her legs and she was laughing and saying, "Puppy, puppy." Too cute!

Bad hair day! She's mommy's little helper though!

15 Months Old!

2009-09-03T19:26:00.000-07:00

Sorry there's no picture this time...been a little lazy in this area lately. Bailey went for her "well child" doctor's appointment on Monday....and that was an experience! Anyway, Bailey didn't get to get her shots that day because she had a fever. :( We didn't realize until Wednesday that she had "hand, foot & mouth disease." She's okay- just been a little cranky and has little blisters all over her hands and feet. I'll take her back next week for her shots- oh boy! However, she did get weighed and measured... At 15 months she's only 19 lbs., 4 oz! Not even 20 pounds yet!!! The doctor looked at me and said we have to wait at least one more month before I can turn her around in her carseat. Too late! And yes, I fessed up that we'd already done it and she wasn't very happy. I told her I "may" turn it back around. (not going to though) Any she measured 30 inches long. So, she's in the 5th percentile for weight and 30th percentile for height. I'm trying to feed her anything and everything to eat, but she's a picky eater just like her mama! :)

On to the next subject, many of you know we have a peeping tom in our neighborhood. Not going into detail about the creep right now...but he was back out again tonight...and it was only 8:30! A neighbor chased after him, but he got away. I'm asking for you to pray for us and our safety. This guy obviously has no limits and we're fearful of what he could do. Hopefully he'll get caught soon. Michael and some of the other neighbors have been staking out the neighborhood at night in an attempt to catch the creep! Please pray he gets caught!!! I'm tired of living in fear of this creep.

Ducks & Donuts!

2009-08-18T18:52:00.000-07:00

On Monday our "mom's & tot's" group met for a playdate. The 5 kiddos ate Krispy Kreme donuts and then we all headed to Aldridge Gardens to feed the ducks. Bailey had a wonderful time with her buddies...but most of all she loved her first donut! :) Seema & Rohan, Bailey & me, Laura Leigh & Josiah, Jessie & Margot, Melanie & Jack
I love my donut!

Bailey and mommy

Bailey's boyfriend, Jack, and his mom Miss Melanie

Miss Seema lovin' on Bailey

Bailey, Margot and Miss Jessie

So much fun!

Not a huge fan of the hat!

My sweet baby girl!

Bailey was watching all of the ducks, fish, and turtles eat the crackers we threw them.

On our way to church....love this dress she has on. :)

Bailey watching her "Cedarmont Kids Action Bible Songs" DVD. She LOVES it! I took a picture of this because it's the ONLY time she is still! Seriously...it's a miracle dvd! (thank you Ginger!)

Playing Around

2009-08-14T18:29:00.000-07:00

This past weekend my sister and her family came to visit. We had lots of fun being together. They also brought their new puppy "Ozzie". I wish I had taken more pictures...but things were a little crazy! :) Yesterday I took Bailey over to Aldridge Gardens to see the ducks and walk around. She had a blast, but it was so HOT! I kept worrying about her stepping in all of the goose pooh! That night, Michael and his friend, Ben, went to play tennis. Melanie and I went along and brought Bailey and Jack. They had so much fun running around the tennis courts, chasing each other, and getting in their daddy's way! Jack and Bailey playinng peek-a-boo!
So cute together!

We'll have to show these pictures at their wedding! ;)

Bailey getting in the way of daddy's tennis game....chillin' drinking her water.

Totally oblivious...but she only got smacked by a tennis ball once. :(

She was amazed at this little plaque at Aldridge for whatever reason.

Petting the steel ducky.

It's soooo hot, but at least I have water!

Sweet cousins! The love each other!

Sweet Caroline...such an angel!

My new nephdog- Ozzie

How cute is this little face?!?

Bailey tugging at my shorts because she wants me to pick her up. These days I can't seem to get much done when she's awake! She wants her mama 24/7.

Summer Is Flyin' By!

2009-08-02T18:45:00.000-07:00

The month of July has come and gone at warp speed! We have been staying pretty busy! The slideshow below is mainly of random Bailey pics :), girl's night out at Cocina Superior, a playdate in the park, JCRMA's Welcome Lunch, CMMA potluck at Ross Bridge's pool, and a picture of Bailey's first time going to church. (She's in a white dress.) I'd like to elaborate on everything, but that would take way too much time!

Bye Bye Mr. Bogey

2009-07-15T19:06:00.001-07:00

Bogey Grumley Braxton paying his respects to his big brother.

On Tuesday, July 14 we lost a beloved member of our family- Bogey Grumley. Bogey, aka Mr. Bogey, just turned 7 years old in June. He was a sweet black Toy Poodle that was given to my twin sister,Laura by her husband, Miller, as a wedding present 7 years ago this week. Mr. Bogey was also Tito's half brother- they had the same daddy. He was such a good dog that loved to give kisses, play, eat pacifiers, suck on his "binky", lay in laps, and most of all he loved playing with his little brother Braxton (their large Standard Poodle).

Mr. Bogey became very sick last week and his health deteriorated quickly. On Tuesday they had an appointment with a vet in St. Louis to see if they could treat him, but it was too late. We think Mr. Bogey had liver cancer. Fortunately, my sister and brother-in-law got to spend one last night with him and prep for a good-bye. He is now resting peacefully in the Grumley's yard and is up in Doggy Heaven. He was buried with Braxton's blanket, all of his toys, a soccer ball, Max's pacifier, and Laura's Mr. Towel.

I just pray for peace and know that time will heal this pain we are all feeling in our hearts. We will never forget Mr. Bogey and we will get to see him again one day in Heaven. Until then, he'll be busy sucking in binky's and playing with balls. RIP Mr. Bogey! Your Aunt Leah loves you and miss you!

Random pictures

2009-06-26T19:39:00.000-07:00

6 girls and a boy! The whole gang FINALLY together with all of our babies in tow! This was the first time we were all together with our little ones so we had to get a picture! So fun!

Left to right: Emily and Maggie, Brittnie and Alexis, me and Bailey, Ashley and Ellie, Megan and Will (Mac Daddy), Katie and Caroline, and Nicole and Lily
Last night we played bunco! I was the biggest "loser" so I got my $5 back. The new "interns" have just started at UAB so everyone has been promoted. Michael is now a 3rd year resident! We had several new ladies join us last night and it was fun meeting them and getting to know them. We had lots of fun and LOTS of laughs!!!! It's always a good time when it's just us girls!

BUSTED! Bailey jerked the marshmellows out of the lazy susan and started chowing down! We can't find a lock that fits it, so now we have to put a gate in front of it...so hoosier!
Yummy! I did let her eat several...we all need our daily sugar fix! :)

Getting ready to go to Miss Amanda's baby shower. I can no longer put bows in her hair because she pulls them out and eats them. Hungry girl!

playing with her buddies- Anna and Jack

Miss Kyle and Madison. So sweet!

Sweet lil Anna playing with her dress!

Miss Melanie and Jack. Bailey and Jack are boyfriend/girlfriend. :)

Anna scooting over to her buddies...and as always, Bailey's got something in her mouth!

Big News!

2009-06-22T19:27:00.000-07:00

No, we're not pregnant! :) Michael matched for his Cardiology fellowship back at the University of KY! We are really excited....I guess...it was his first choice. I'm torn because I don't want to leave all of my wonderful friends I've made! However, our family life will be so much better at UK than it would've been if we stayed at UAB. He'll be on call every 12th night verses every 5th night. So, that's a huge plus and I know that everything works out for a reason. Too much thought and prayer and had gone into this decision. We will begin a new chapter in our life next June. Until then, I will cherish every moment we have here with our wonderful friends! (I can't really think about it too much because I tend to start getting a little tiery eyed!)

On a different note, Bailey had her one year check up last week...two weeks late. She weighed 18 lbs 1.5 oz.- she's in the 10th %ile. However, she's 29 1/2 inches long and is in the 70th %ile. The doctor said she's tall and skinny, but I have no clue where she got the "tall" from! We've been going to the pool almost every day and Bailey loves the water! She's also getting a pretty good tan. And yes, she's wearing TONS of sunscreen! :)

Bailey's First Birthday

2009-06-10T18:17:00.000-07:00

Miss Bailey is officially 1! She had a wonderful time at her birthday party and LOVED digging into her cake...she is definitely my girl! We are so thankful for our wonderful family and friends who came to celebrate this special day with us. The day after her birthday Bailey and I rode home with my parents and spent almost a week and a half in Paducah. Bailey loved playing with all of her cousins and hanging out with Mimi and Granddaddy. However, we both missed Daddy and are so glad to be back home!

Then and Now...Almost a Year Old!

2009-05-27T13:56:00.000-07:00

My how time has flown by this year! I am not believing our baby girl will be "1" on Saturday! We have come a long way, that's for sure. We were off to a rough and rocky start, but thank goodness things have gotten A LOT easier. Bailey is healthy and thriving. I don't know what I ever did without her in my life as she is my whole world! I have gotten so sentimental reminiscing back...but that's what mom's are supposed to do, right? Michael and I are so fortunate and blessed to have Bailey Grace as our daughter. We are looking forward to this next year as she continues to grow and figure out this wild and crazy world! :)

New Swing!

2009-05-22T18:49:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe Bailey will turn "1" next Saturday! My parents...aka Mimi and Granddaddy, bought her this new swing set for her birthday. We went ahead and put it up so she could go ahead and get some good use out of it. She loves it!

She just threw up...guess I should've wait until her food settled a bit before she swung!

She loves eating her shoes!

So fun!

Such a big girl!

I had to take a picture of her crazy hair after she woke up from her nap.

Always into something!

JCRMA Brunch & IM Spring Party

2009-05-10T19:27:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we had a "Saturday Brunch" with JCRMA. We got together to talk about the upcoming year, eat and fellowship! There were 7 brand new babies there too...well 5 were really just "brand new". Our group has produced 20 babies from last May to this May. There's something in the water down here!!! I am so blessed to be part of such a great group of wonderful women!

Saturday night Michael and I attended UAB's Internal Medicine Spring Party. This is an annual event to say "good-bye" to the third year's, hand out awards, play skits, eat, drink and dance! Michael got recognized because he was awarded the VA Book Award. It was fun to get all dressed up and have a night out with friends. We were fortunate that Michael's parents came down to babysit Bailey so we could attend. It felt so good to actually be out by ourselves on a date!

Baby Wigton is here!!!

2009-05-06T18:17:00.000-07:00

Sweet Caroline Anne Wigton was born yesterday on Cinco de Mayo! She was born at 3:16 pm and weighed 6 lbs, 14 oz. and 19 inches long. She is perfect! In case you don't know who this is, this is my best friend's baby, Katie! Thankfully her parents, sister, and Eric's mom got here just in time for her arrival. They are from St. Louis. She's a little diva already!

The proud parents- Eric, Katie and Baby Caroline

The proud "aunt" and Bailey's newest best friend! ;)

Our friend Megan and Baby Will dropped by to see Caroline also while we were there.

Such a sweet baby!

11 Months Old!

2009-05-01T20:05:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe that in one month our baby girl will be ONE!!! We are in the progress of planning her first birthday bash! The past couple of weeks we have gone on walks with Nicole and Lily and we've also had playdates with Robin and Anna. We are so happy summer time is here so we can get outside and play!

Katie's Baby Shower, etc.

2009-04-18T18:53:00.000-07:00

Today I helped give my best friend, Katie Wigton, a baby shower. She is 35 weeks pregnant and is due May 23. She is having a little girl, Caroline Anne. Miss Bailey had to tag along since Daddy had to work...but she was a pretty good girl. She had fun playing with her friends, Ellie and Will.

The Easter Bunny came!

2009-04-12T14:23:00.000-07:00

Today is Bailey's first Easter! We were not able to go to church today because Michael had to work...imagine that...and I'm a little under the weather. Bailey and I watched a little church this morning and had our own Easter service! She is aware that He is Risen! We did spoil her with an Easter basket, but she wasn't able to get into it until Daddy got home. She got some books, sippy cups, shoes, a stuffed animal, and pacifiers. That bunny sure knows what she likes!

Bailey and cousin Caroline. I'll have to blog about my sister's visit on another day. In short, we had a good time and were totally exhausted by the end of the week. Even the babies were exhausted! :)

Playing in the Park!

2009-04-01T19:25:00.001-07:00

Today Michael and I took Bailey to Veteran's Park to swing! She had so much fun...so much fun that swinging her made her very drowsy! The kid also came out in Michael as he swung in the swing next to Bailey. :) We had a good time enjoying the warm weather and sunshine today.

Wee! Yes, she has a bruise on her head. It's been there for a week now and seems to keep getting darker and darker. Who knows!

She's starting to sink back in the swing...getting sleepy.

She was more interested in the little girl swinging next to her.

Bailey and daddy swinging. Not to mention Michael almost knocked out the kid who walked behind him!

Not too sure about the slide.

Chillin' in my stroller!

She's worked up an appetite after all of that playing! My sweet baby girl!!!

9 1/2 month "sideways" pictures

2009-03-29T20:51:00.000-07:00

So, for whatever reason my computer will not let me rotate the photos. I have tried everything! If anyone has a suggestion, I'm all ears! Anyway, these are supposed to be Bailey's 9 month pictures. We had them taken at Sear's. I've gotten her pictures taken at 3, 6, and 9 months. I plan on using a "professional" photographer for her one year pictures. She'll be 10 months tomorrow- crazy!

Gettin' So Big!

2009-03-24T19:58:00.000-07:00

Tonight Bailey went with me to Girls Night Out at Dave's Pizza in Homewood. She was soooo good...which really surprised me. She was held by many of her "aunties", ate lots of Cheerios, and did some serious babbling. I told her not to get used to coming to GNO's with mommy because mommy needs a night out alone every once in a while! Michael is on cardiology night float this month so it's been just been Bailey and me hanging out 24/7. We're so ready for this awful month to be over with!!! We want daddy back!
The JCRMA crew

Oh mom, this is so much fun!

My new pink crocs! I love new shoes!!!

Anna and Bailey...best friends! Bailey just taught Anna how to sit up! ;)

Anna, Bailey, Will, Jack, and Josiah at Oh Baby! playgroup.

Having a serious conversation. Will is trying to figure out how to get his "mack" on both of them!

Napping in her crib with her booty up in the air. This is how she sleeps.

Mr. Tito snoozin' with Baby. He has such a rough life!

Playtime!

2009-03-14T20:11:00.000-07:00

Babysitting Anna...Bailey didn't want to sit in my lap for a picture. She's such a busy body!!!
Sweet Anna loved Bailey's teething ring

Getting ready to go on a walk in the 80 degree weather!

Playdate with Anna

Bailey exploring Anna's exersaucer

After they played, Robin and I took them on a walk...they were both knocked out cold! So cute!

Bailey loves her stroller as you can tell- very peaceful!

Last night Michael and I got to go on a "date" for the first time in MONTHS! Our friends, Todd and Robin, kept Bailey while we went to eat. Tonight, we kept their baby, Anna, so they could go eat. Bailey and Anna are four months apart and will eventually become great buddies! We're going to have date night once a month and we'll babysit for each other's little ones! It's about time...both couples desperately need time alone together!

9 Months Old

2009-03-04T19:46:00.000-08:00

It's hard to believe that Bailey is already 9 months old! She is into everything and now has two teeth! Last week Bailey and I went to Paducah to spend time getting to know Caroline. She is such a good baby...all she does is sleep...and she NEVER cries! We had a great time at home relaxing and playing!

On the Move!

2009-02-11T08:00:00.000-08:00

Miss Bailey is on the move these days! She is now crawling on all fours, pulling herself up, and doesn't sit still for a minute! Also, she has gotten a bottom tooth! It's amazing how quickly she's changing and progressing! (sorry for the sideways pictures...don't know what happened.)

Pictures of Caroline & Paducah

2009-01-30T20:28:00.000-08:00

I finally got the pictures downloaded. Caroline will have some story to tell later on in life! They are all doing well and are currently staying at the Ransler's house where there is power. Laura is okay...she'd like to be home, but is holding up as best as she can. Please continue to pray for them and all of my family and Michael's family as they are still without power.

Caroline has arrived...major ice storm in Paducah

2009-01-28T17:17:00.000-08:00

My sweet niece, Caroline, was born Tuesday at 2:53 am. She weighed 6 lbs. and was 20 inches. She is perfect! My sister, Laura, only pushed twice. She had an easy labor with no complications- praise God! My mom, dad and I were there at the hospital when she delivered. I still haven't slept in over 48 hours!!!

This wonderful news has been dampened by the horrible ice/snow storm that hit Paducah. I will post pictures later...but I have two words- "war zone." I have never seen anything like it in my life. There are trees and powerlines down everywhere and 99% of the city is without power. Laura is still in the hospital but must leave by Thursday at midnight. No one has power in Paducah. She is thinking they may come to Birmingham and I really want them to. They can't go home to a freezing dark house! They don't even know if they're house is still in one piece. My dad was going to check today, but there are no phone lines that work so no one can communicate with each other. The land lines and cell phones are completely dead.

I am asking everyone to please pray for my family and friends back home. Michael and I left this morning because we knew Bailey needed to be in a house with heat. My heart is deeply saddened right now when it should be such a joyous time. I just pray that my family and friends are okay. Last night the sky lit up like fireworks because transformers were blowing and powerlines were coming down. Every 5 minutes you could hear trees crashing down. We stayed at a friends house and a tree came through their home. Everyone was okay thankfully. I am just so thankful Michael and I could make it home today. The Lord was truly watching over us.

I will post pictures probably tomorrow. Please pray for everyone hit by this awful catastrophic disaster.

Sittin' Up & Snoozin'

2009-01-19T14:58:00.000-08:00

Worn out! She loves her baby doll.
Look at me Mom! I'm sittin' up all by myself!!!

She LOVES this thing! Best gift ever thanks to Aunt Laura!

First time in her highchair and she fell fast asleep!

I couldn't reist not taking pictures. She was sitting with us as we at dinner.

Not amused mom...too tired!

Michael was on call Friday and I was bored, so I decided to put up her highchair. I know Bailey's a little small for it...but she seems to enjoy it! We don't feed her in yet, just contain her in it. :) She also started to sit up a little on her own this weekend. She's not 100% sturdy yet, but it'll be no time until she can stay balanced. She's also been sleeping through the night! It has been 6 nights in a row so far (knock on wood). Hopefully she's finally getting the hang of it!!!

Playtime with friends

2009-01-13T17:17:00.001-08:00

Today was a busy day! First, Bailey and I went to stortyime at the Hoover Library this morning. She got to sing songs, read (and chew) on books, and listen to Mrs. Brandi tell a story. It's amazing how well she pays attention!

This afternoon I hosted "Oh Baby!" for our JCRMA group. We had 6 little ones over and we had so much fun! We had some snacks and "played" for a couple of hours. Bailey was cranky, so she napped the majority of the time. However, we got some cute pictures of the munchkins!

Bailey & Friends

2009-01-11T09:03:00.000-08:00

Christmas 2008

2009-01-04T14:24:00.001-08:00

Our happy little family!

Getting ready to go to church Christmas Eve.

Teddy and Cubby- my parents poodles

Bailey checking out Aunt Laura...she's thinking, "Hey, you look like my mama!"

Our little nephews- Cole,Gage, and Ben. They love Bailey!

Bailey chillin in her exersaucer watching her Crazy Cousin Max!

Aunt Burn and Granny cracking up as they watch Max open his gifts.

Mimi and Granddaddy got Max a motorized fire truck! Watch out!

My older sister Amy holding Bailey as Max hugs her. How sweet! :)

Bailey playing with a few of her new toys.

Next year we'll have another one to add to this picture...we can't wait for Caroline's arrival!

We had a great Christmas! We got to be at home for a whole week...which got to be a little long, but still fun. We had lots of family time and got see some friends. Bailey was asleep at both grandparents' houses as we opened presents on Christmas Day. She got lots of fun toys and cute clothes! We ended the week with a sick child though. Come to find out, she had a double ear infection....which explains all of the crying and crankiness. We're home again and back in our routine. She's feeling a lot better. We're already looking forward to next Christmas where she'll be walking and into everything!!!

Random December pictures

2008-12-20T20:49:00.000-08:00

JCRMA Dirty Santa party

Ginger, Nicole, Kyle, me, Katie, Christy (everyone else took off before I could a pic.)

It got kinda ugly....but we're all still friends! ;)

Yes, Bailey is teething...she's drooling all the time now.

Max on Thanksgiving morning. He had the worst case of bed head which was too cute!

Bailey getting ready for her bath. She LOVES getting naked!!!

Eating the flower on her exersaucer is her favorite thing to do!

Drying off after her bath.

Mom, this is private!

Daddy feeding Bailey his banana split sucker...she only got a few licks! :)

First time eating baby food. She ate squash and it went better than expected!

Yum, this isn't so bad...especially with mommy making all these funny noises to entertain me!

Busted! She loves going after Tito's nasty toys!

Got it! But, only for a second until mommy took it away.

I love my baby girl!!! I promise she does smile...she just hates the camera I think.

December has greeted Bailey with lots of milestones! She is now eating babyfood and scooting around everywhere! If I take my eyes off of her for a second, she's gone! At her 6 month appointment she weighed 14.7 pounds. She got 5 shots and one oral vaccine, which was so not fun! Bailey and I were in Paducah the first week of December and we'll go back for the week of Christmas. She loves her Grandaddy and Mimi...especially her Grandaddy though. He wags her around everywhere!!! Michael's been on call every fourth night, so Bailey and I have had lots of alone time. We look forward to January where he has a little less hectic schedule.

6 Month Pictures

2008-11-25T14:56:00.000-08:00

Today I took Bailey to Sears to get her pictures taken. Instead of ranting and raving I'll just say it was a rather unpleasant experience. They ran late, she was tired and hungry, and it took almost 3 hours! There was nothing I could do to get my baby to smile. :( Both mom and baby were worn out by the time this was all said and done!

Oh Baby!

2008-11-22T19:08:00.000-08:00

Bailey, Margaret, Ellie and Anna. It was hard trying to get them all to be still and look at the same camera. All three of them, excluding Bailey, were born within a couple of weeks of each other...Anna and Ellie just four days!
Josiah and Bailey. He was a "lady's man" that day b/c he was the only boy there...and he's also a little over a year old.

Once again all the girls. I had to put Bailey on the end b/c she kept trying to roll over on everyone.

To the left-Cary and Margaret on the mat, Ashley's in the chair feeding Ellie, Josiah's just walkin around chillin', and Bailey's rolling around on the floor.

When we arrived Bailey decided she wanted to feed herself...however, it didn't really happen b/c it kept falling out of her hands.

This pic is for my mom...she bought Bailey this poodle outfit and she wanted a picture of her in it...so here's the back side and below is the front side!

Bailey and I went to our first Oh Baby! get together this past Monday morning at Laura Leigh's house. This is one of the events JCRMA does each month. She had fun playing with her four other friends: Anna, Ellie, Margaret, and Josiah. We had a great time and it was nice to hang out with other mom's that are going through the same thing! There was lots of crying, eating, pooping, and peeing needles to say!!! However, she loves her new friends!

Random pics- trip to paducah, Halloween, cousin Max

2008-11-12T11:34:00.000-08:00

Bailey and Daddy napping
Had to take a pic of this not-so-cute hat...sorry Bailey

Aunt Jessica holding Bailey and Max and Laura...after Max's 2nd Birthday party. Laura is expecting a little girl, Caroline, on January 22. God bless her!!!

Bailey had her picture taken with Max earlier...she had to get all dressed up and wear the red shoes Mim bought her.

Me, my mom, Laura, Bailey and Tito chillin'...I had a horrible cold while I was at home.

Laura, Bailey and Max. He kept saying, "Hold it, hold it." He loves to hold Bailey!

My parents, Mimi and Granddaddy. At times Max and Bailey love them more than they loves us, their parents!

Michael, me and Bailey at the Turner's for Halloween. She didn't feel too great. :(

Ryan and Brantley chillin with Michael and Bailey on Halloween

I finally downloaded more pics...as Bailey is SCREAMING from her crib! She'll be 5 1/2 months tomorrow and I can't believe it. I'm TRYING to get her on a schedule and letting her learn how to nap in her crib. This is not easy! Anyway, we're all better now and we're looking forward to this weekend as our good friends, Chad and Ali Lewis are coming to visit us from Bowling Green, KY. We're so lucky and blessed to have such great friends and a healthy baby.

5 Months Old... and sick

2008-10-31T12:15:00.000-07:00

Happy 5 Month Birthday to ME!
I love/hate being on my belly :)

This is the usual night time ritual. Daddy and Bailey fall asleep together.

Going for a walk

Ginger, Brantley, me, Bailey, Ashley and Ellie...hangin' out at Aunt Katie's!

I FINALLY got her letters hung...all by myself!

For some reason the jumperoo puts her to sleep. I don't think she finds it too exciting yet.

Bailey and Tito napping together. Tito fell asleep when he realized Bailey wasn't going to throw him his ball.

I can't believe Bailey is already 5 months old! She is getting to be a big girl at 12 pounds 15 ounces! Poor thing is sick right now. We have had a LONG week to say the least. In the wee hours of early Wednesday morning we took Bailey to Children's Hospital ER. She cried nonstop for 5 hours...literally screaming to the point where she made her self throw up 3 times. Michael and I were at our wits end and couldn't figure out what was wrong...so we went to the hospital. They did all kinds of things to my poor baby- poked, prodded, x-rayed, and etc. Long story short, she had an ear infection. She's now on an antibiotic and feeling a little better. Michael and I got no sleep the night we went to the ER and the night after that we had to take turns holding her because she cried every time we put her down. Thankfully, last night she slept great. All I can say is having a sick baby is THE WORST thing in the world! I hope and pray she's stays healthy...my sanity can't take much more! :)

Tito has worms...

2008-10-25T16:12:00.000-07:00

So Emily, I took your advice and named this one for you! Today has been A DAY to say the least! First off, I am sorry I have been HORRIBLE about updating this thing. However, I have not had any time to add new pics of Miss Bailey. She has been VERY HIGH maintenance the past few weeks. Hopefully I'll add pics shortly...so stay tuned! (I'm also waiting for someone to help me with this whole blog thing to make mine more pretty and have slide shows,etc.

Anyway, so today is Saturday and Michael is on call. He won't be home until probably 1 or 2 tomorrow afternoon. We had an okay night...woke up at 4 am and didn't really go back to bed. When we did wake up I noticed Tito had something on his nose. It looked like a piece of rice. Well, I instantly knew what it was. TAPE WORMS! Ugh! Tito sleeps with us and I immediately pulled back the covers to discover that we had little worms all in our bed. How nice! I called Dr. Gaddis and he got us right into the vet. I had to throw Bailey in the car, Tito in the car, and get myself together. It's not easy taking care of a baby and a dog at the same time. When I finally got all of us in the car I noticed my gas light was on. At this point I almost threw up my hands and said, "I give up." However, I said a little prayer and God pulled me through.

We got to the vet and they had their annual yard sale! I said to myself, "Seriously, are you serious?" Everyone and their grandma was there. I had trouble parking and then I had to carry both Tito and Bailey in at the same time. The good news is that Tito got a shot that should take care of those nasty creatures and we made it home safely. I've had to wash the sheets, lint roll the bedspread and vacuum the entire house. If I knew this day would be like this, I probably would've never gotten up. However, I'm proud of myself for making it through and I was stronger today than I've ever had to be on my own...physically and emotionally.

The best part of today was getting to be with my friends Katie, Emily, Ashley and Worth...and his sister Kate. Thank goodness for friends...that's all I gotta say. We all watched the Georgia vs. LSU game at Ashley's house and got to chat and eat good food. Bailey was awesome! She was in my Baby Bjorn and loved it. She can now hold her head up so I turned her around to the front so she can see everything and she just loved it! Hopefully we'll have a nice and peaceful night with nothing too exciting. I'll try to get better at blogging!

Gotta go...baby is SCREAMING!

Little Diva is 3 Months Old!

2008-09-05T13:46:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, being 8/4/08, we had these pictures taken at Sears. Bailey is 3 Months and 6 days old. My dear friend, Robin, went with me because this was the first time I have been out of the house with her by myself...except for a doctor appointment. I was pretty nervous, but Bailey did great! I still have no clue how the lady got her to smile! To my surprise, Michael showed up for the pictures! Bailey is doing great and is getting bigger and "better" each day. She's still "Ms. Fussy Pants" but that is getting a lot better too! (Thank the good Lord!)

JCRMA Welcome Lunch at Cobb Lane

2008-08-18T12:47:00.000-07:00

Katie, Ginger, me, Robin and Meredith
Robin- due Sept 30 and Meredith due in January

me and Robin (she's Asst. Recruitment chair)

Nicole (she's an identical twin too), Emily, Katie-Girl's Night Out Chair and me

Katie, Lindsey, Kristen, Christy, Ginger

I made everyone stand up and introduce themselves. :)

Katie, Sarah, Jennifer, Erin, Brittnie, Nicole, Emily- fixin' to eat!

Jamie-due next month, and Katie due in March. There's something in the water in B'ham!

Cary Cherry-the only one smiling at me...love her! She's due Oct. 3.

Rick Sizemore, with The Paragon Ins. Group. He sponsored our event. He had a 5 minute presentation on why our husbands need disability insurance NOW!!! Hopefully we can send him some business from this.
Ginger-she's Fundraising/Charity chair and Kyle- she's Recruitment Chair

That's me. I was so nervous about talking in front of everyone...but I did do okay. I did start to choke up when I told the group how these girls were like my family. I WAS going to tell everyone how they supported me when I had Bailey, but I was too emotional and didn't want to break down in front of everyone. This group is my family here!

Kim-she has twin girls,so cute. Anne Knox, she's a dentist from Murray, KY. Lissette...she's fron New Orleans and has the best accent ever! :)

Katie and me...my BFF!

Everyone coming in and mingling

Signing in and getting name tags.

Yesterday we had our JCRMA welcome lunch at Cobb Lane restaurant in downtown Birmingham. JCRMA stands for Jefferson Co. Residents' Medical Alliance. We're basically a doctor's wives club. Somehow I got the position as president of this group...but it's working out well. We had about 45 people at the luncheon and there were about 20 or so new faces. Throughout the month we have play bunco, have girls night out, mom and children play groups, and we even do chairty work. It's just an organization where we support each other because this is not an easy time in our lives. All of our husband's are either residents or med students and we're often left alone and have no family around. This has become my family and I love these girls! I am so blessed to have so many great friends and such a great support group.

11 weeks old

2008-08-14T14:07:00.000-07:00

My pretty little angel!

Her afternoon nap spot.
Silly girl. I can usually get her to laugh in the mornings.

Cheese mommy!

Stretch a mile!

Oh mom, it's too early for pictures!

Here it comes....that colicky time of night!

Life is getting easier with Miss Bailey! She's doing pretty good at night...only waking about 2 or 3 times to feed...sometimes just once! During the day she usually takes a nap on her belly from 10:30 to 12:30 (if I'm lucky). In the afternoons she usually sleeps for another hour or two in her swing, but we don't have a time down yet.

She is growing every day and is developing little fat rolls! Michael and I are adjusting a whole lot better these days. I think it was so difficult at first because of everything we went through. Looking back I just wasn't prepared or ready for her arrival...didn't expect her to arrive 6 weeks early...didn't have her room ready...didn't have time to nest.... But, as my mom has said many times, "That's just tough!" And she's right...we're finally accepting and adapting to our new and wonderful life with our daughter and I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world! We love Bailey more and more every day and I can't imagine life without her.

Bailey's first shots!

2008-07-31T13:42:00.000-07:00

Today Bailey went for her 2 month check up and received four shots and one vaccine taken by mouth. It was unbelievably hard to watch the nurse pin her down and stick her four times! Bailey was screaming bloody murder and her face was bright red! I wanted to cry...but I knew I had to hold it together.

Bailey weighed in at 7 lbs. 14 oz. and is now 20.5 inches long. She really is growing! Dr. Denton gave her a thorough exam and answered all of our million questions! Bailey has an umbilical hernia...which should go away on it's own by the time she's 7 or 8! It doesn't hurt her, but it isn't pretty to look at. Poor thing is going to have to wear a one piece swimming suit until it goes in. (I don't want other kids to make fun of her! :( ) Other than that, she is healthy!

She's been pretty fussy today because of her shots, but I just gave her some Tylenol so she's resting comfortably now. (Yes, I had to drug her because I had to get some things done!) Anyway, tonight should be a fun one...but hopefully she'll sleep like a little angel!

Life has been pretty crazy lately!

2008-07-30T12:57:00.000-07:00

Max giving Bailey a kiss...and Bailey is being her usual crying self!

Max is giving Bailey some lovin'. He might have just a little jealous bone!

Cheese!

Aunt Laura took lots of pretty pictures of me.

Mr. Max...silly boy!

Max in the buff reading his animal book after a bath.

Maybe if I pout I'll get my way!

Mr. Tito sucking on "Baby" and laying on Baby Tad. He's gotten very protective of his little sister.

Bailey and Gray Vessels. He was born 4 days after her. What a happy little couple!

Mimi and Granddaddy

She looks content...but only for a few seconds!

Miss Bailey loves her bath time! It's pretty much the only thing that will make her stop crying at night. Thank goodness for baths!!!

Our happy little family...minus Tito. This was our 6 year wedding anniversary. We got out for a second to eat while my parents kept Bailey.

I love my little girl and I wouldn't trade her for anything in the whole wide world! She has brought much happiness and joy to our lives. We are so blessed to have such a beautiful and healthy baby girl!

Well, I'm finally getting around to add some pictures of Bailey. I'm not very good at this right now because my time is fairly limited. I've gotten sick with a stomach bug, my parents visited, my sister, bro-in-law, and Max visitied, and then we went home for about 5 days....not to mention the COLIC Bailey has every night. Life has been fairly hectic and tense, but it's getting better. Bailey is now sleeping in her pack-n-play so Michael and I are finally getting to sleep in the same bed. We are taking turns getting up with her in the middle of the night- which is great! She's learning to be put down...even if it's for only 10 minutes...it gives me a little break. The good news is that we are adjusting and I THINK we're going to survive! Life will be tons better once the colic stops though!!!

Tomorrow Bailey has her 2 month check up where she'll be getting some shots. (Should be a fun night tomorrow night!) Michael starts his second rotation tomorrow as well. He'll begin Cardiology Consults which is a very demanding rotation, but he should learn a lot. Thankfully he still has no call this month!

Please enjoy all of the pictures!

2008-07-16T18:14:00.000-07:00

We have the best friends ever here in B'ham!!!

2008-07-16T17:49:00.000-07:00

Michael and I are so lucky and grateful to have made so many great friends here in Birmingham. They have been so supportive and thoughtful throughout these past couple of months. We seriously haven't had to cook dinner in almost a month! Our fridge is overflowing with food and my cell phone bill is almost double what it normally is...thanks to all of the phone calls. :)

My heart already sinks when I think of moving one day. I can't imagine life without all of my "new" girlfrends! God has really taken care of us and provided these great friendships. Thankfully we have at least two more years here...hopefully more if we match here for Cardiology!

Bailey is doing good...if you call Colic good. :) She's been rather fussy the past few days, but Michael and I are dealing with it better. Her Mimi and Granddaddy are coming on Friday and I might go back to Paducah with them for some extra help. Michael's going to study for Step 3 of his boards, so he probably won't miss us much! I'll take some new pictures soon because she is getting a little bigger day by day!

Our new baby girl!

2008-07-10T09:29:00.000-07:00

Bailey tanning in her Isolette and getting fed by a feeding tube.

First day home! Of course I had to put a bow in her hair!

Welcome Bailey Grace Faulkner! She was born on May 30, 2008. She weighed 3 lbs. 11 oz. and was 16 inches long. She came 6 weeks early and was delivered by emergency C-section. We brought her home on June 16...after her 17 day stay in NICU at St. Vincent's Hospital. We are calling her our "Miracle Child."

I was diagnosed with severe preeclamsia, HELLP syndrome, and Chorioamnionitis at 34 weeks into my pregnancy. When I first went into the hospital I also had a UTI, which I didn't know about, and was also having contractions, which I didn't even feel. Bailey was diagnosed with IUGR...Inter Uterine Growth Retardation. Even though I was considered 34 weeks, she was only measuring 31 weeks. I never in a million years dreamed that something like this would happen to me. After all, I've always considered myself relatively healthy. On Friday morning May 30, Dr. Woods came into round on me and said, "We've gotta get this baby out now." I will NEVER forget those concerned and urgent words! 45 minutes after that, I was rushed into the operating room and Bailey was born at 9:33 am. After a brief look at my new baby girl, she was rushed off to the NICU by a team of incredible nurses.

I could go on and on about that day as there as still plenty of raw emotions and "what ifs" that make me want to cringe. But, Michael and I are trying not to look back and are grateful to God that Bailey is doing great and I am too. We are so thankful to God that our baby girl is healthy!

As of July 7, she weighed 5 lbs. 14 oz. She's a little ole thing and is fiesty as can be! I wonder where she gets that from???

I can't wait for everyone to eventually meet her!

Never thought I'd be a blogger!

2008-07-10T09:17:00.000-07:00

With all of the free time I know have, I finally decided to create a blog. Of course, everyone knows I'm kidding about all of the free time! I wanted to create this so all of our friends and family can keep up with what's going on in our lives. I will try to post new pictures of Bailey as much as a I can.

This should be fun...Enjoy!