and baby makes FOUR

Almost 3 years old

2012-02-06T09:52:00.000-06:00

I know I say this all of the time but I really cant believe how fast Claire is growing up. She will be 3 years old in 1 month!!! I remember this time 3 years ago waiting and anticipating her arrival. I wondered what she would look like, what her personality would be etc. She is such a beautiful and smart little girl. She amazes us everyday!! Don't get me wrong she is not perfect and definitely gives us new challenges everyday. She has the most tender heart and really gets upset if she sees you sad or hurting. She loves her baby brother so much!! I know that she will continue to watch after him. She has found her mommy's love for cooking and will ask to cook with me every time I am in the kitchen. I love it!!! She is also very interested in learning new things and will sit with her daddy and listen to him explain anything and everything. Her new love is planets!!! More to come on that later!

Loving her brother

Cheese!!!

She loves to pick the berries from our bush outside

Helping mommy cook

Ethan is 4 Months Old

2012-01-16T10:53:00.002-06:00

Ethan you are 4 months old!! You are getting so big!! You smile all of the time. You think everyone especially your sister are funny! You have gotten on a pretty good schedule. You wake around 7 and then eat and go back to sleep around 9. You are still eating every 2 hours! You take another nap around 1 and then a quick little early evening nap at 5. Normally you are in bed by 9. You still wake around 3-4 to eat and then go back to sleep. You wear 3-6 month and 6 month clothing. Last time you were at the doctor you weighed 14.8 lbs. Still wearing size 2 diapers. You will grab hold of our fingers and pull yourself up and to a standing position. Your very strong! I have a feeling you will be walking way sooner than your sister did. I couldn't have asked for a better baby!!! You have brought so much joy into our lives!!

Your sister loves you!!!

Happy Birthday Ole Dad

2012-01-13T10:53:00.000-06:00

Ole Dad turned 60 this past Sunday. We went up to spend the weekend with him and celebrate!! We had a great time just hanging out and enjoying the nice weather!

Aunt Beth came home too!

Gee and Claire playing

3 Generations!!

Ole Dad with his babies

New Camera

2012-01-13T10:47:00.000-06:00

I asked for a new camera for Christmas. I wanted one that I could use to take really good pictures of the kids and not have to keep paying to have them taken. Mom and Dad got me one and I have been taking pictures like crazy ever since. I love it!!! Watch out, the blog might just have more pictures now!!

Gigi and her babies

I thought this was so sweet of father and son

Mr blue eyes

Gigi and Pawpaw before they left

Christmas 2011

2012-01-13T10:42:00.000-06:00

We came home Christmas Eve so we could spend Christmas Morning at our house. We didnt do anything but lay around and play with the kids. It was great!! My parents came in that evening and we did Christmas with them. It was a very relaxing and fun year!! Claire asked for an umbrella, and a new tent from Santa. He also got her table and chairs and the littlest pet shop.

Claires presents from Santa

Playing in her new tent

Littlest pet shop

Holding baby brother.

Ethan with his Santa gifts

Christmas 2011 in Paris

2012-01-05T14:09:00.000-06:00

We didn't know how our Christmas was going to be because Claire and then Ethan came down with RSV the week prior to Christmas. Claire was so sick and Ethan luckily didnt get as bad. After 5 days of 102+ fever Claire finally started getting better. We went to Paris the following Tuesday. We had a great time with family and were so blessed to receive many wonderful gifts. Claire and Adelyn had a great time playing together. They are finally at an age to enjoy each other.

Family Picture at Patti's

My sweet baby boy

Claire with Aunt Nan

The Nutcracker

2012-01-05T10:16:00.000-06:00

I am just now getting around to posting pictures from Christmas. Sorry about that.
The Children's Theater put on the Nutcracker ballet this year and I decided to take Claire. We went with Claire's 2 friends Maggie and Meryl. It was a very cute performance and just the right length. The girls started getting anxious towards the end. They were all worried about where the nutcrackers hat went when the big rat took it away. Kelle and I just laughed.

Mr Handsome

2011-12-13T19:59:00.001-06:00

Ethan is getting so big and has the sweetest personality! I can't wait to watch him grow up and turn into an amazing little boy.
We went yesterday to the doctor for his check up. He weighed 14.4 lbs and was 25 1/4 inches long. He is in 97% on both. We are so blessed to have such a healthy and happy baby.

Dinner with Santa

2011-12-12T10:17:00.001-06:00

Our Chick Fil A had a dinner with Santa night last Friday. You had to RSVP in advance which was nice because it wasnt totally crazy! It was very well organized with crafts and your picture with Santa. Claire was so excited to see Santa and tell him what she wanted. Ethan didn't really care. He just wanted to go to sleep.

These are a little blurry because they are pictures of pictures.

Photo Recap

2011-12-05T21:47:00.001-06:00

A few photos from the last couple of weeks.

Saying cheese

Watching the Christmas parade

Happy Birthday GiGi

2011-11-26T07:39:00.001-06:00

We love you!!!

2 months old

2011-11-22T08:01:00.001-06:00

Ethan turned 2 months old last week. I can't believe it! Time is flying by and my baby boy is getting so big. He really is a laid back baby! He is starting to be awake a little more during the day. He loves to smile and talk at you. here are a little on his stats.

13.8 lbs
Wears 3-6 month clothing
Size 2 diapers
Wakes up once to nurse at night

He is just so sweet and I am loving his little personality.

Thanksgiving program

2011-11-18T12:29:00.002-06:00

Claire had her Thanksgiving program at school yesterday. All of the kids performed. I was a little nervous about how Claire would do but she did awesome!! Follow this link to see her. She is front row center in the orange.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6ss5BaUIqQ&feature=youtube_gdata_player

Gymnastics

2011-11-18T12:22:00.001-06:00

Claire started gymnastics 2 weeks ago. She loves it! Her friends Ainsley, Maggie and Meryl are in her class which makes it even better. When we leave she always says " we come back to gymnastics?" she talks about it all week.

Warming up

Jumping in the circles

Backwards flip

Pencil roll

Sorry the pictures are kind of blurry. They were in motion on my phone.

7 weeks

2011-11-07T22:56:00.001-06:00

I meant to post about Ethans 1 month check up but never did.
He weighed 11.8 pounds and was 22 inches long. He is a big boy!!! Everything looked great!! He has started smiling and making sweet sounds. He especially loves to smile at Claire which just melts my heart. I have a feeling they will be great friends!! Some other likes are having his diaper changed (weird I know but he really does enjoy it) bath time, riding in the car, and sleeping. He loves to sleep during the day and then fight sleep at night.Fun fun :)
He typically wakes twice during the night to eat. He is changing and getting bigger everyday which makes me a little sad but excited to see what his future holds!

My chunky monkey

Halloween 2011

2011-11-02T12:50:00.001-05:00

Claire has been so excited about going trick or treating. She talked about dressing up and going to get candy and saying trick or treat. For a few days I would ask what she was going to dress up as and she would say a crocodile! I am not for sure where that came from but she was a cupcake per her first request! Ethan was a puppy dog!

Pumpkin patch take 2

2011-10-23T03:08:00.001-05:00

Claire had such a great time at the pumpkin patch we decided to go back with some friends. We went during the week when it wasn't crowded and had a blast with Ainsley and Maddox.

The big pumpkins

Ainsley asked to be buried and of course Claire had to join her!

Maddox didn't know what to think

Doing the duck race

Helping Maddox

The big tunnel

This slide went super fast

Painting our pumpkin

Hayride
Trying to get all of them to look was impossible

Looks who's 1 month old

2011-10-16T05:17:00.001-05:00

I can't believe that our little man is a month old. I feel like I should still be pregnant with him. He has been such a great baby. He sleeps and wakes every 2-3 hours to eat and goes back to sleep.
We have been trying to work on his reflux and this week we went to the doctor for a check up on it. We are going to try and cut back his feeding times because we think he may be overeating. He now weighs 10.8 lbs!!! We have a chunk on our hands!!!
So far the reduced feedings has helped with his reflux.
This week we are traveling to NC to see family. I am so excited for Ethan to meet all of his great and great great grandparents and other extended family. Thank you to my aunt Katie for being willing to fly in just to ride back with me since John can't go.
This past month as a family of 4 has been very smooth and for that I am thankful.

Rough life

So big!!

sleeping in the sling

Of course there are owls

Pumpkin Patch

2011-10-08T07:22:00.001-05:00

This past week Claire's preschool took a field trip to the pumpkin patch. Each child had to come with a parent. This was my first adventure out with both kids by myself so I was a little nervous. I put Ethan in the Moby wrap and he slept the whole time and Claire had a great time! My first adventure was a success!!

Fixing to go on the hayride

Playing in the massive corn box

Ethan sleeping

Trying to ride the tractor. The pedals were a little hard to push.

Climbing the hay to go slide

Carrying the pumpkin she picked from the field

Big Sister

2011-10-03T20:33:00.001-05:00

Claire has been an awesome big sister!! She wants to hold him all the time and she will stand and just look at him. Today Ethan was in his bouncy seat and she was watching him when I walked into the other room. All of a sudden Claire came running in saying "baby brother has something out his nose". Ethan had spit up and some came out his nose. She was so concerned! When anyone comes over she makes sure to tell them that this is her baby brother. I am so thankful that she has adjusted so well!

Loves to hold him

Feeling his body

1 week old

2011-09-27T17:09:00.000-05:00

I can't believe it has already been a week since sweet Ethan joined our family. He is truly a blessing!!
He has been the best little baby! He eats every 2-3 hours and sleeps the rest of the time. He went to the doctor for a weight check this past week and had gained 4oz since we left the hospital. He now weighs 7lbs 4oz.
Claire has been a great big sister!! She loves to kiss him and hold him. She also helps mommy change diapers. Transition to family of 4 has been smooth so far.

Love this boy!!

Outfit from Aunt Amber

Claire felt like he needed a teddy bear to sleep

Just pure sweetness

He loves to sleep with his arms up

Ethan Taylor

2011-09-19T01:51:00.001-05:00

Ethan Taylor arrived on September 16, 2011 at 7:39am.
He weighed 7lbs 8oz and was 20.5 inches long!!
He is so healthy and perfect!!
We are still trying to figure out who he looks like. He has dark blue eyes right now and light brown/blonde hair.
Claire has been really great with him and wants to give his bah to him all the time :)
We are settling in to being a family of four, so I will post more pictures soon!

Big Sister

2011-09-15T21:38:00.001-05:00

Guess who's excited to be a big sister tomorrow????

Excuse the crazy hair!! She just got out of bath!

38 weeks

2011-09-11T09:18:00.000-05:00

38 weeks!!I cant believe that Ethan is technically full term!! This pregnancy has flown by. At our ultrasound 3 weeks ago they estimated him to weigh around 6 lbs then and around 8lbs when he is born!! He already weighs more than Claire did when she was born. He is very active and really starting to show that he is ready to come into the world.Claire has really started talking about baby brother and what they will do together. Lets hope that she still feels the same way when he arrives!!She got to see him move the other day and thought it was so funny that baby brother was tickling mommy. We have brought all of the baby items down from the attic and washed everything. I have a few more things to do and I think we will be ready!!! My c-section is scheduled for this Friday!!! 5 days!!! I am so ready to hold this sweet boy!! Please pray for a safe delivery and healthy baby!!

38 weeks

First day of preschool

2011-09-07T20:23:00.001-05:00

Claire's first day of preschool was last week. Our church has a program that is 3 mornings a week. I think it will be great for her to have interaction with kids her age and also give her something different and fun to do. Her teachers Ms. Barbie and Ms. Denise are really sweet and seem to really know how to work with 2 year olds. I am really excited to see all that she learns this year!!

It was really bright that morning.

She asked for her sunglasses.

This was after I picked her up. They made a hat and she had to wear it!!

Last family of 3 trip

2011-09-04T08:43:00.000-05:00

Last weekend we decided to drive to Louisville and have a "last family of 3 trip". We took Claire to the zoo! It was an awesome zoo and we all had a great time. It is hard to believe that Ethan will be here in 2 weeks!!!

Watching the penguins

They have an awesome bear/polar bear exhibit. This little bear decided to come out right before we left.

I know its a little blurry but this is the gorilla. They were so calm and cute.

Of course we have to have Dippin Dots. Claire calls them "ball ice cream".

Trying to get a picture with Claire's favorite animal. Elephants!!!

They were putting on a show right when we walked up.

Playing in the cool tree

Riding the baby elephant

They have an outside part and an inside part for the giraffes. Claire made us wait 30 minutes until the baby giraffe came back inside.

Happy Birthday Gee

2011-09-01T04:31:00.000-05:00

We love you!!

Cookout with friends

2011-08-30T12:26:00.000-05:00

This past weekend we had Erick, Druanne and Ainsley over for dinner. The girls play really well together and we enjoy hanging out with Erick and Druanne. Erick and John have become golfing buddies! We are looking forward to many more cookouts over the next 2 years!

Playing in the sandbox

The girls had there own little table set up. Yummy!!

Swinging and having so much fun

Throwing the ball.
Claire wants to call Erick, Mrs. Erick. Not sure why.

Ring around the Rosie

Catching Up

2011-08-23T14:58:00.000-05:00

I wish I had good reasons on why I haven't updated but I don't. :( We have just been doing things around here the past few weeks. I am trying to get in as much time with Claire before Ethan arrives and she starts preschool! Here are some pictures to recap.

Our sweet neighbors Mrs.Wanda and Tommy. The first time Claire saw Tommy she said "look mommy its grandpops"
They are now known as Grandpops and Mrs.Wanda.

The newest way to mow the grass.
Claire: " Ride elephant and mow grass with daddy?"

Ole Dad and Gee came to visit 2 weeks ago. Ole Dad brought a butterfly that just emerged.

Running and jumping to daddy and Ole Dad

"Cheese"

Ole Dad planted sunflower seeds in a pot the weekend we moved in. They started to bloom 2 weeks ago. They are so pretty!

We had dinner with Ainsley and her parents one night. The girls wanted to play checkers.

Playing golf with daddy.

New friend

2011-08-10T21:55:00.001-05:00

We have started making some great new friends here in Henderson. I was so excited to meet several kids in our neighborhood who are around Claires age as well as some new friends at church. On Tuesday we had a play date with Ainsley. Ainsley and Claire are about 2 months apart in age and alot alike. They both love construction equipment,rocks, throwing things in the water etc.
We are excited about getting to play with Ainsley again.

Swinging

"fishing"

Rocks!!

"cheese!"

Goodbye hug

33 weeks with Ethan

2011-08-06T20:30:00.001-05:00

I hate that I have been so bad at updating on this pregnancy. But life with a 2 year old and moving has just kept me busy. I am 33 weeks pregnant which means 6 weeks to go. Yes I can count, that only makes me 39 weeks. I will be having a scheduled c-section because of all of the trouble we had trying to deliver Claire. So far everything has been pretty uneventful except for having contractions. They have started giving medicine to help get those under control. We are so ready to hold our sweet boy but need him to stay put a little longer. Claire is talking more and more about baby brother so hopefully his entrance into her world will be smooth.

The big belly!!

Random summer

2011-08-05T09:37:00.000-05:00

We have been busy enjoying all of the great things that Henderson and the surrounding cities have to offer. I have tried to take pictures but sometimes it didn't happen. Here are some random pictures from the past couple of weeks.
Also, I know I have been horrible at keeping up with pregnancy updates but I promise I will do an update with pictures this weekend. 6 weeks until Ethan arrives!!!

Claire and I went to see Winnie the Pooh in the theater. It was really cute and Claire did great!! She actually got upset when we had to leave.

Claire is not a big fan of water. I bought this little sprinkler trying to get her more comfortable with it. Daddy had to run through it with her.

We found an orchard in Owensboro that we decided to visit one day. It is really not in season yet but Claire enjoyed playing in the corn box and on the train. We also got some yummy fresh peaches.

Having a tea party. I realized after the picture that her outfit matched her tablecloth.

Picking flowers. I used instagram on my phone for editing.

We live on a golf course so of course daddy is in heaven. Claire has also learned to love golf. She will tell you "Ride golf cart, take the flag out of the hole, use the golf club and hit the ball in the hall." They have a great time together.

We also have a pond in our backyard and Claire loves to go and sit and throw rocks in.

Downtown there is a small water park next to the river. It is really cute so I decided to take Claire and see what she did. She touched it twice and spent the rest of the time playing with the flowers.

It has been very dry and hot here. One afternoon we did get a small thunderstorm. Claire sat and watched with daddy. Now she is obsessed with lighnting and thunderstorms! She has to watch them every night when daddy gets home on the computer.

Sticker face

She is getting so big!!!

Giving daddy kisses through the window while he was mowing. Claire has been really big into giving everyone kisses lately. Its very sweet!!!

Cool Claire!!

Claire has also become obsessed with reading. I am thrilled but very worn out on her books. We visited our library one day and read books and did puzzles. She loved it. We also brought home some new books to read.

There is a little park down from our house that we had not tried out so we went this week.

The bridge at the park. Claired loved to climb the stairs to walk across.

Peek-a-boo in the tunnel cave at the park

The Zoo

2011-07-27T09:01:00.000-05:00

When we found out that we were moving to Henderson we were so excited to learn there was a zoo nearby. Claire loves animals so we knew we would be visiting several times. We went yesterday for the 2nd time and had a great time. Claire's 2 favorite things were the hippo and the track hoe!

Looking at the big fish

Jaguar

"Hi....This is me Claire"
Claire loves to say this now. It is very funny.

They are adding on at the zoo so there was a track hoe. We had to stop and eat our lunch at a nearby bench so Claire could watch it work.

Giraffe

This cute little monkey stayed at the screen making the cutest noises. I think John would have brought it home if they would have let him.

HIPPO. Claire fell in love with the Hippo last visit and asked to go back and see it when we first walked in.

Bye bye BAH!!!

2011-07-25T15:26:00.000-05:00

We have been 1 week with no bah (pacifier)! Yay!!! We really thought it was going to be hard but it has actually gone pretty smoothly! We have told Claire that when she gave up bah we would get a fish. So last Monday we went and bought a small aquarium and several fish. She loves it!!! We hear "mommy/daddy you go see the fish with me?" at least a hundred times a day!! I am so glad the transition has been smooth!!!

Picking out her fish

The aquarium. You can see 3 of the fish swimming.

We love to feed the fish!!

Fun times in Paris

2011-07-20T17:04:00.000-05:00

We spent last week in Paris visiting John's parents. We had a great time and Claire enjoyed spending time with her Ole Dad and Gee. Here are some pictures to recap all that we did!! Thanks Gee and Ole Dad!!

Of course no visit is complete without baby on the pillow

Monday, we went to the local pottery place and painted. This is a flower that we will add a mirror to.

One day Ole Dad brought some pretty rocks home from work. Claire was in heaven!!!

Tuesday we went over to the train station to see if they would allow us to get on a train. The man there was so nice and allowed us to get on.

On the choo-choo train

Of course Claire found rocks!!!

Wednesday we drove over the Murray for some yummy Japanese. Claire calls this the fire place. She does great now with the fire and we don't have to take her away from it.

Mommy and Claire. Claire being goofy!!

Attempt at a family picture. Claire being silly!

It was very hot while we were there, but we found a day to visit the park earlier in the morning. Claire didnt want to look at the camera.

Claire loved to play touch the ceiling and then baby drops with Ole Dad.

Gee set up some fun outside activities one afternoon. There were 2 pools and a sandbox. Of course Claire really didn't have any interest in the pool but she did enjoy moving the toys between each pool and sandbox.

Aunt Beth came home for the last weekend we were there and we went and visited the animals on the farm. This is Claire telling her about the chickens and the rooster.

Gee, Ole Dad, Aunt Beth and Claire feeding Mr. Horsey apples.

We also did a little fishing. Claire thought it was so much fun.

Daddy and daughter fishing together

I just thought this was too precious!!

Of course there were Elephant rides!

On Saturday John and Glenn played in a golf tournament so the girls took a day to do some shopping and have lunch at the tea room. Claire was so funny asking for tea every 5 seconds. This is her with her new tea set that Gee bought her. We play tea party at least 3 times a day!!

Saturday evening we went to a local restaurant that has animals you can feed. We always go out after our meal and feed them leftover hush puppies! Claire loved the goats.

Pure joy!!!!

Claire with Gee and Ole Dad!

Summer in NC

2011-06-30T10:04:00.000-05:00

We have been in NC for the past 2 weeks. There has been lots of pool time, family time and relaxation!! I am so glad that we were able to come since the next time we are here, we will have 2!!! Crazy!! John takes his big board exam on Saturday and then we will be back together. Yay!!! Please say a prayer for John Saturday morning!!!

Driving!!

Having a pedicure

Painting pottery

We had lunch with PawPaw and then went to visit his work

This is my 96 year old great- grandmother with my dad on his scooter!! She was ready to go!!

Having a wheelbarrow ride

We went to my parents good friends for a cookout and they had a piano that Claire was in love with. It was so funny when they turned on the automatic play. Claire didn't know what to think.

Enjoying a Kit-Kat outside Target

Great-Grandpa Hawkins came to visit

We went to Bounce U one day. At first I thought I had wasted my money because Claire would not go near the inflatables. But she warmed up and started jumping and having a blast.

Jumping!!

Tunnel Cave!!

Playing at the pool with Aunt Amber

Baseball game!!

Watching the game!! Before it poured down rain!!

In the pool!! It took her a while to warm up to the water.

Enjoying a cupcake with Bri

Our new home

2011-06-27T07:08:00.000-05:00

Sorry it has taken me longer to post pictures of our new house. Its just been crazy. I took pictures but there are still several decorating projects I am working on. I will post a more detailed home tour when those projects are complete. I did not take pictures of our bedroom or Ethan's nursery. There is still lots of work to be done in there. I will post those later.

Front of house

Back of house. Half of the deck is covered and half open. I love it!!!

Backyard and golf course

Kitchen. We have placed a temporary wall where the curtain is hanging. We converted that room into Ethan's nursery.

Other half of kitchen

Dining area. I am still working on something for the table.
Through the doorway is the door to the garage and our laundry room. There is a pocket door you can close.

Entry way. The curtain is the doorway to Ethan's nursery. Still working on that.

Living room looking from entry way. Still have some things to do but I love the space!

Our beautiful chest. It was John's great aunts and he refinished it before we moved to Pikeville. Its my favorite piece!!

Guest bathroom

Other half of guest bathroom.

Claires bedroom

Claire's bedroom suite was John's great aunts as well

Excuse the mess. I cleaned after the picture. HAHA

Big girl bed!! The bedding was handmade by my grandmother. Isnt it beautiful??? I will treasure it always!

Love for daddy

2011-06-20T21:30:00.001-05:00

We were able to spend Fathers Day with John yesterday and I was so glad! We had been apart for a week and there was a little girl that was missing her daddy. We went out to eat and Claire would not let go of him. It was so cute!! Now less than 2 weeks we will be together again!! I am so proud of John for not only his hard work in school but for being such a wonderful husband and daddy!!

Summer and the Move

2011-06-17T19:27:00.000-05:00

I know its been a couple of weeks but we have been crazy busy with the move. We got everything moved in week before last and I have been working hard to get everything in its proper place. I still have some things to do but overall it feels like home. John's parents came in the Wednesday we moved in and helped get things in and start with some unpacking. Then Claire and I took off to Memphis for my best friends wedding. We came back on Sunday and had last week to do things around the house. John came in on Thursday evening for the weekend and my parents came in last Saturday and stayed until today. Needless to say I had lots of help and I am so thankful for that. Chairs were repaired, pictures hung, bookshelves built, walls built and soo much more!! It has been great!!! I will post pictures of the house in the next day or so but wanted to share some pictures that I have taken over the past several weeks. These are out of order but I dont want to take time to organize. :)

Claire playing in her new pool at the new house

Swinging at Mrs.Beth house in Memphis

We went out to dinner at a restaurant that sits on the Ohio river. It was very good!! Claire loved looking at the water.

I just thought this picture was too precious!!! Thanks Casey for catching it!

Again daddy and daughter. Does it get any sweeter?

Enjoying her cupcake

Family picture. It was a little dark.

Mommy and Claire

Its hard on a girl

Play Doh with Paw Paw

When we went to Memphis we had lunch with Auntie Nan for her birthday!! Claire wanted to snuggle.

Claire's new present from Gee and Ole Dad. ( Anytime Claire gets a boo boo we have to put a band aid on it. That day she hit her head, so we have a band aid in the center of our forehead.)

Claire and I have started walking every morning in the neighborhood. It is soo nice. This day she was tired of riding
and she wanted to push her car.

Who needs to go to the beach for sand?

Playing at the mall

This was before we left Pikeville. Claire and daddy playing soccer.

Smiling for the camera

Cheese

"Tada I am a princess"

Of course there was a tunnel cave when Ole Dad came to visit!!

We found a turtle before we left Pikeville. Claire loved it!!

With the beautiful bride!!!

P.S. I know Claire has "bah" ( pacifier) in many of the pictures but it has been a huge comfort with all of the craziness of moving and travelling.
We will start working to say bye bye to it in the next few weeks. Please pray for us!!! :)

Ethan's Sprinkle

2011-05-25T14:18:00.000-05:00

Some of my very close friends in Pikeville gave Ethan and I a sprinkle last week. A sprinkle is just like a shower only for those of us who already have little ones. I was so excited to be able to celebrate with all of my friends in Pikeville before I leave. Which by the way is in less than 1 week!!! To keep with the sprinkle theme they did ice cream sundaes as the food item. It was so yummy! Everything was so perfect and sweet! Ethan received so many wonderful things. I am so blessed to have met these girls while living in Pikeville. Thanks girls for everything!!

Me with the Hostess's
Casey B., Brittany, Me, Tina, Amy, and Casey M.

The yummy table

Delicious!!

Some of the girls that came

Presents! The tissue paper is hiding the adorable diaper cake I received.

I will probably not be posting for a week or so because of the move but I will be back with pictures from the move and the new house!!!
p.s. Ethan is doing great. He is now 8.5 inches and 1.2lbs. His favorite time to move is at night!!

21 Weeks

2011-05-17T07:02:00.000-05:00

This was Claire and I at a princess tea party Sunday. All of that info is for another post!!

Pregnancy Highlights:

How Far Along: 21 Weeks

Size of baby: Size of Spaghetti Squash (8 in and 1lb)

Total Weight Gain/Loss: Gained 4 pounds total. I go to doctor Friday so we will see if it has gone up!

Maternity Clothes: I wear maternity jeans and pants but everything else is regular.

Gender: Its a BOY!! Ethan Taylor

Movement: Moves alot first thing in the morning and then alot at night

Sleep: I'm sleeping pretty good, except for having to pee all the time!

What I miss: Nothing really!

Cravings: Changes daily.

Symptoms: Lower back pain

Best Moment this week: Being able to see my belly move when he does!

Baby go with us

2011-05-07T07:22:00.000-05:00

Claire has been playing alot with her Bitty Baby lately. She likes to feed her, change her clothes etc. It is really sweet to watch. Yesterday we were getting ready to go to the park and she said "Baby go with us". So we took the baby stroller and Bitty Baby with us. When we got there she wanted to show baby the water. Afterwards baby needed to swing. It was so cute. Claire has been looking and acting alot older lately which I find fun and sad at the same time. My little baby is growing up!!! I am hesitant to type this in case we go backwards but we just might be potty trained!!!!! We have been working on this for several weeks and this week she finally just got it!! I am so excited because I really wanted her trained before Ethan arrived. Lets pray that we continue to more forward and not go back with this.

Pushing baby to see the water

Claire got tired of pushing baby and started to walk off and leave her. I asked her to get baby and she ran and picked her up. Haha. It was too funny.

Maddox joined us yesterday

Claire asked that "Baby sit in lap" while she was swinging

So much fun. Hold on baby!!

19 weeks

2011-05-03T12:55:00.000-05:00

I know this is not of me but had to share a sample of the pictures we had taken of Claire this past weekend in NC.

Pregnancy Highlights:

How Far Along: 19 Weeks

Size of baby: 6.5 inches, 10oz

Total Weight Gain/Loss: Gained 4 pounds total

Maternity Clothes: I wear maternity jeans and pants but everything else is regular.

Gender: Its a BOY!! Ethan Taylor

Movement: Sleeps in the morning. Wakes up around 2pm.

Sleep: I'm sleeping pretty good!

What I miss: Nothing really!

Cravings: Changes daily.

Symptoms: Staring to have some sciatic pain

Best Moment this week: Just feeling good is a blessing!!!

Sunshine!!

2011-04-28T07:31:00.003-05:00

We have had lots of rain the past few days but in between the rain the sun will come out and will allow us to go outside. I have been taking Claire to the park in town to play and just enjoy while we can. She loves to swing and go see the Lion and water. The lion and water is a water fountain in the park. She always says "Where are you fish?" looking for the fish that arent really there. She gets all of her energy out and takes a really good nap in the afternoon which allows me to pack. Less than 4 weeks to moving day!!!

"Weee..Look at me!"

Playing in the water

Giving kisses to Maddox

18 Weeks

2011-04-27T07:27:00.000-05:00

Pregnancy Highlights:

How Far Along: 18 Weeks

Size of baby: Size of a mango

Total Weight Gain/Loss: Gained 4 pounds total

Maternity Clothes: I wear maternity jeans and pants but everything else is regular.

Gender: Its a BOY!! Ethan Taylor

Movement: He really likes to move after I have been up for awhile and at night when I get in bed!

Sleep: I'm sleeping pretty good!

What I miss: Nothing really!

Cravings: Changes daily.

Symptoms: Staring to have some sciatic pain

Best Moment this week: Just being able to see healthy boy last Thursday!!

Easter 2011

2011-04-25T07:52:00.001-05:00

We had a great Easter this year. Friday John was off so we dyed Easter Eggs. Claire wasnt to sure about it at first and then she was all about dropping the eggs in the dye. After they were dry she wanted to play with them. A few got broken and she didnt understand why that happened. It rained off and on all weekend so we had to play outside when the weather allowed. Sunday we went to Sunday School and church. We love our church and always walk away having learned so much. When you ask Claire what she learned she will say "God" and "Jesus" It is so sweet. After church the Maddox's and Butler's came over for lunch. They each brought a dish and I made a BBQ chicken and homemade yeast rolls. Yumm!!! We were all stuffed! We wanted to do an Easter egg hunt after lunch but it was still kind of rainy and it was nap time. Claire took a long nap and didnt wake up until it was almost time to go to church for the Easter musical. The musical was amazing and Claire seemed to enjoy all of the dancing and music.

It was a wonderful day to celebrate our Risen Lord!!!

All of the Easter Bunnies gifts and gifts from Gee and Ole Dad and Gigi and Pawpaw

Our attempt at a family picture

Trying to get Claire to smile at the camera

Claire smelling the flowers

Its a........

2011-04-22T08:07:00.000-05:00

BOY!!!!

Ethan Taylor will be joining our family in September. We are so excited!!

After our appt we called our family and told them our great news and later that evening we had all of our friends over for a little revealment party. I wanted to tell everyone at once and this seemed like the only way to do it!!

As you can see above John, Claire and I went outside and got a blue balloon to walk in with. Thats how we told everyone!!

Cookies that I made. They werent perfect but they were pretty good for my first try I think!

Balloons outside

Cupcakes! My original idea was to have the center of the cupcakes blue and then when they eat them they would see. However you could see the blue through the liner.

Claire and her funny face

Playing with baby "Maggox's" as Claire calls her. Its really Maddox!

Everyone waiting to find out

Ethan Taylor!!

Hillbilly Days 2011

2011-04-19T08:09:00.000-05:00

This is our last year to experience Pikeville Hillbilly days. I am sad and excited all at the same time. Sad because we are leaving but happy because the town gets so crazy during this time. Claire and I walked around on Thursday night with some friends and got to see all of the fried food. When I say fried food I mean LOTS of it. From bloomin onions to Deep Fried Peanut Butter and Jelly sandwiches. The smell of grease and heart attacks fills Pikeville!! Claire had a great time just watching everyone and everything. We did partake in some Dippin Dots!! On Saturday they always have a parade with the crazy Hillbilly vehicles and characters. Its always an interesting experience.

Claire watching all the action

I am going to wait and post our weekly baby update until Thursday, when we find out what we are having!!!

Happy Birthday Daddy!!

2011-04-17T13:34:00.000-05:00

Happy Birthday to the greatest Daddy and Husband!!

We love you!

Spring Time Fun

2011-04-13T08:12:00.000-05:00

We have been tryng to take advantage of the warm weather here. We have played at the park, had picnics, played in our sandbox and painted. I only captured pictures of the painting but will try to take some more later. This past weekend we also traveled to Henderson to look for a new home. We will be moving there the first part of June for John to start his clinicals rotations. We found a wonderful house to rent and cant wait to start this next part of our journey.

My pots on the front porch. I love spring flowers!!

Organizing the paints

She had the most fun painting her hands

"Ta-Da"

16 Weeks

2011-04-12T17:41:00.000-05:00

Pregnancy Highlights:

How Far Along: 16 Weeks

Size of baby: Size of a turnip

Total Weight Gain/Loss: Gained 3 pounds total

Maternity Clothes: I wear maternity jeans and pants but everything else is regular.

Gender: We find out April 21.

Movement: I have really started to feel more movement.

Sleep: I'm sleeping pretty good!

What I miss: Nothing really!

Cravings: Changes daily.

Symptoms: Sinuses are really bothering me

Best Moment this week: John being able to feel the baby.

15 Weeks

2011-04-05T07:09:00.001-05:00

I cant believe we are in the 15th week of this pregnancy. It is going by so fast. I am getting more and more excited about meeting this little one and bringing him/her home. The picture below was taken Saturday night before John and I attended his schools annual Spring Gala. I know you cant really see my belly( thank you black dress) but I liked the picture.

Pregnancy Highlights:

How Far Along: 15 Weeks

Size of baby: Size of an avocado

Total Weight Gain/Loss: Gained 1 pound

Maternity Clothes: I wear maternity jeans and pants but everything else is regular.

Gender: We find out April 21.

Movement: Baby did a major flip Saturday night when the music started playing.

Sleep: I'm sleeping pretty good!

What I miss: Nothing really!

Cravings: Changes daily.

Symptoms: Sinuses are really bothering me

Best Moment this week: Claire coming over and kissing and hugging baby and saying "Hi Baby"

Protein Shake

2011-03-31T08:52:00.000-05:00

John has been making protein shakes after he works out everyday for as long as I can remember. About 2 months ago he allowed Claire to help him. Ever since then every time John comes in the door Claire very sweetly and softly says "Make protein shake". She is a little obsessed. John started letting her have a little and she loves it!! Now daddy and Claire share a protein shake almost everyday.( Don't worry we looked it up and it is perfectly safe.)

14 Weeks

2011-03-30T17:55:00.000-05:00

This post is a little late. I was 14 weeks on Saturday.Oh well!!

Pregnancy Highlights:

How Far Along: 14 Weeks

Size of baby: Size of a naval orange

Total Weight Gain/Loss: Gained 1 pound

Maternity Clothes: I wear maternity jeans and pants but everything else is regular.

Gender: We find out April 21.

Movement: Felt first movement this past week. Nothing huge though.

Sleep: I'm sleeping pretty good!

What I miss: Nothing really!

Cravings: Changes daily.

Symptoms: Sinuses are really bothering me

Best Moment this week: Feeling baby move!!

Spring Break Part 4

2011-03-25T07:54:00.000-05:00

Thursday we took Claire to Sea World. This was our birthday gift to Claire.We knew she was too young for Disney right now but knew she would love all of the animals. Before we left for Florida we would allow her to watch some of the videos online of some of the shows. So anytime we asked where we were going she would say "See Shamu Whale, and dolphins and penguins!" We all had the best time. Claire's favorite were the penguins. These have always been John's favorite animals as well. Whenever we would go somewhere else she would always say "Go see what penguins doing." We visited the penguins 5 times. When we left the penguins for the 3rd time :) she kept saying play balls. We would look around and couldn't figure out what she was talking about. She got very frustrated until we realized it was a game that involved throwing balls into holes in the board. Depending on where it landed was whether or not you got a toy. We allowed Claire to throw a couple and she got one in the red hole which meant she won a small stuffed animal. She did this all by herself!! We were very proud!! She picked a blue stuffed eel as her prize. I will post a video later of her playing. We saw three shows while we were there. The Sea Lion and Otter show, Shamu Show and the dolphins. Claire would sit in amazement at all of the action going on. It made John and I both smile to see our not so little baby enjoying all of this!!

Riding in stroller we rented and holding her stuffed dolphin

Looking at the flamingos

Funny face while watching the sea lion show

The little otter

The very big sea lion

PENGUINS!!!

The dolphins were putting on a show for us

Daddy and Claire

Waiting for Shamu show

Claire was amazed at all of the tricks

Sorry its sideways. This is her hugging the penguin, saying "Ohhh penguin its ok"

Claire would say "Dolphins jumping!!!!"

The dolphins waving goodbye

Claire was getting tired so "Bah" had to make an appearance for a short time.

This dolphin was huge!!

Riding the "shish" with daddy

This was a huge sandbox that Claire didn't want to leave

Spring Break Part 3

2011-03-24T06:56:00.000-05:00

On Wednesday we just hung out at the house and let Claire play outside. She loved their backyard. They had rocks, statue figures and a bird bath that Claire loved to put things into.We also drove around on the golf cart and went through "tunnel caves". These were golf cart paths that went under the main road.

Not wanting her picture made

Pouring water out of the bird bath and putting rocks and sticks in

Helping Jeanne water the plants

Kissing the lion

Lion needed hugs as well

Claire: "Open wide lion. Say ahhhh"

Hugs and kisses from mommy

Spring Break Part 2

2011-03-23T10:13:00.000-05:00

On Tuesday Uncle Bob was off work so him and Jeanne took us to a nearby city called Dunnellon. We ate a great lunch sitting on the river and then took a boat ride to explore the river. It was beautiful. The river meets up with Rainbow Springs so you can see through the water to the bottom. It was really neat. Claire enjoyed seeing all the fish and turtles. After the boat tour we went to a nearby State Park called Rainbow Springs. Wow!!! It was breathtakingly beautiful. The water was crystal clear and the waterfalls and plants were amazing! Claire of course found the rocks!!!

Riding on the boat

"Guncle Bob and Jeanne"

Claire looking at the Alligator and turtles

The beautiful river

All the turtles. It was crazy how many there were

Waterfall at the State Park

Family Pic

How beautiful is that? You can swim in that water

ROCKS!!!

Attempt at picture but Claire wanting to get in water

Handing daddy the stick.
(This picture is for Gee and Ole Dad)

Running in the leaves

Spring Break Part 1

2011-03-22T06:52:00.001-05:00

John had spring break last week and we wanted to take a family vacation since it would be the last one we get for a long time. I also wanted one last getaway with just the 3 of us before baby comes in September. Thanks to the help of all of our family, we were able to spend the week with John's Uncle Bob and Aunt Jeanne in Orlando, FL. We had the best time. Its amazing what warm sunshine can do for your mood!!! There house is absolutely beautiful and has a great backyard that Claire played in all week. I will do several posts to show all the fun we had! Thanks again to our family for making this trip possible!!!

Waiting to board airplane

Claire kept saying "Ride airplane see Guncle Bob and Jeanne"

On airplane watching video

Going to the town square with Uncle Bob and Jeanne

Attempt at family picture, but Claire was more interested in the water

Daddy and Claire looking at the birds in the lake

13 Weeks

2011-03-21T21:02:00.001-05:00

I figured it was time to start giving updates on Baby #2. I am going to try and incorporate Claire as much as possible in the pictures. I am stealing the highlight part from Kellys Korner.
This picture is deceiving because I am bigger than I look in this picture. haha!!

Pregnancy Highlights:

How Far Along: 13Weeks

Size of baby: Size of a lemon

Total Weight Gain/Loss: No weight gain yet

Maternity Clothes: I wear maternity jeans and pants but everything else is regular.

Gender: We will find out next month.

Movement: Not yet

Sleep: I'm sleeping pretty good!

What I miss: Nothing really!

Cravings: Dont really have cravings. Just glad to be able to eat again after the 1st trimester sickness

Symptoms: Nothing really

Best Moment this week: Thankful to be in 2nd trimester!!

Birthday Celebration Number 2

2011-03-21T07:50:00.000-05:00

Johns parents weren't able to come in for Claire's party but were dying to do some celebrating with her. They came in the Thursday night before we left on vacation and spent the night. We went out to eat at Hibachi and then opened gifts when we returned home. Claire had a great time opening presents and spending time with Gee and Ole Dad. Some how I dont have a picture of them with Claire. She was too busy playing!

Her special cupcake

She had to have her jacket on while eating it

"Pooh Rabbit!" This is what Claire calls Winnie the Pooh

Vegetable and fruit cutting set

Playing with her new toys

2 YEARS OLD

2011-03-20T12:28:00.000-05:00

* I am behind on this post. Between having company, being sick and going on vacation its been crazy here*

It is hard to believe that my sweet 5lb 11ounce baby is now 2 years old! It has been amazing to watch Claire grow into this beautiful toddler. She has the sweetest heart and will run to give you hugs all day long.Her new thing is to go up to a new friend and wave and say "Hi". She goes non-stop all day long playing and asking questions about everything. Her new favorite sentences are:
*"What is it?"
*Whats the matter?"
*Where is....?"
You cant keep anything from her because shes always aware of whats going on. She has a little sneaky side which makes us laugh. She will hide something behind her back and smile at you, because usually she isn't suppose to have whatever it is.
We changed her crib into a toddler bed which allows her to get in out on her own. The funny thing is she wont!! Once we put her down we tell her not to get up and she stays. If she drops something she will reach as far as she can without getting out of the bed. It is very funny but we are thankful we are not fighting her to stay in the bed. Funny story: When we were making the toddler bed we took a rail off and it fell. I caught it before it hit the ground. Claire was sitting on the bed and said "Shew that was a close one!" John and I both started to die laughing. She is always saying funny comments and we never know where she picks them up.
We are so thankful for our sweet little girl and we know she will be a great Big Sister in September.

2 year Stats:
25.5 lbs
34 1/4 inches tall

She is in the 25th percentile on both but is healthy!!

Happy Birthday PawPaw

2011-03-12T05:27:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday PawPaw!!

We love you!!

Claire turns 2!!

2011-03-06T10:46:00.000-06:00

Claire turned 2 yesterday and this years party theme was after her favorite show. Miss Spider Sunny Patch Friends. Here are some pictures from the big party!!!

The Hollow Tree

Taddy Puddle

The room

The favors. They were bug collecting kits.

More of room

Craft Table. The kids colored and made spiders

The food

More food and Miss Spider cake

Kissing Bitty Baby

Attempt at family picture

Party Guests

Blowing out her candle

Of course there was elephant rides

Happy 2nd Birthday Sweet Girl

A little behind

2011-02-15T10:20:00.000-06:00

I know that I have gotten very behind in my post's. Sorry about that. I will try to keep up better but no promises until I get through with my first trimester because I am exhausted by the time night comes around. :)
I also missed posting about Claire's 23 month. Nothing has really changed. She still weighs 25lbs wears 18-2t clothing and size 4 diapers. We are starting to work on potty training but haven't really gotten the whole dont hold it for hours down yet. She speaks very well and can almost talk in conversation with you.We have been fighting some ear infections so we went and visited a specialist in Lexington last week and it was decided that Claire needs another set of tubes and her adenoids removed. Her surgery is scheduled for this Thursday at 8am! Please pray that everything goes smoothly. Plans have def. started for her 2nd birthday! I cant believe its almost time!!! Here are some pictures and videos from the last several weeks.

Riding the apple at a little mall

Craft time. Claire really loved to dump the beans .

Another craft time. We made a spider.

Sorry its sideways. This is was at Chick Fil A in NC last month.

Casey and Maddox went with us!!!

Going down the slide!

Owl needed to watch tv. Dont worry I moved her away from tv after picture.

Chance and John were playing Kinect and Claire wanted to join in.

Claire has really been singing and dancing to all music lately. Here is a clip.

Its Time....

2011-02-02T08:40:00.000-06:00

For Claire to share her secret!!!

Thats right our sweet little family of 3 will be a family of 4 in September!!!!

We are super excited and ask for all your prayers for this sweet baby God is blessing our family with!!

The day in the life...22 months

2011-01-12T19:22:00.000-06:00

Instead of the normal monthly post, I thought it would be fun to share the some of the exciting things Claire is up to at 22 months!

On this particular day I went down stairs to start lunch and left Claire laying on her pillow palate watching a movie. When I returned she had decided to take all of the jewelry out of the organized drawers in my closet!!

She hung the bracelets on the "circles"

Telling Maddox about the turtle

Watching "Patch" while wearing her fireman hat

Sitting in timeout

Building a blue tower. We took food coloring and water and sprayed the snow.

"Yummy Snow"

Sliding in the snow

This is right after her nap. She loves to take her socks off and put them on her hands and play. She will crack herself up!

Tunnel Cave with rabbit

TUNNEL CAVE

Eating her snack

Just being her silly, cute self!!

Claire has some new favorite sayings as well.

*When she is eating something or pretending to eat she will say "MMM..So good"
*We have always said Later Alligator when she leaves the room but now Claire will say "Bye bye Daddy, Later Alligator" without being prompted.
*Little miss independent is nearing the 2 year old mark and loves to do everything on her own This includes choosing her clothes, dressing, fixing something to eat etc. She will say "no mommy, Claire do it" Oh help me when shes a teenager!!

Happy Birthday Ole Dad!!

2011-01-08T09:36:00.000-06:00

Christmas 2010

2011-01-06T07:43:00.000-06:00

This year for Christmas we were in North Carolina with my side of the family. We were able to show Claire some of the traditions that I did growing up, which was great! **WARNING** This post is long but I want to document it all.
We arrived on Wednesday before Christmas and just hung out that day and Thursday. On Christmas Eve we went to 'Boo's' my great Grandmothers house for snacks and to do gifts with her. This is a time that all of the my extended family on that side gets together. We usually only see one another once a year at 'Boo's'. After that we took Claire home for a nap and then we went to the traditional Lovefeast at church. A Lovefeast is based upon the Agape feast in which food is partaken in unity and love. This is not the replacement of Communion. Moravians Lovefeast serve a Moravian bun, and a cup of coffee. Claire wasnt so much about sitting through the service so John had to take her out but I was grateful that he allowed me to stay and enjoy. After we returned home Gigi and Pawpaw gave Claire the traditonal Christmas pjs to wear for Santa. We placed the cookies and milk out and read the Christmas story. It was then time for Santa to set up. I have to say I had sooo much fun!!! Christmas morning Claire was so surprised and maybe a little overwhelmed. She wanted mommy to come see her presents with her. Claire got so many great presents and we are so thankful for everything she received!! We spent the day hanging out and playing with all of the our new toys. That evening my moms mother and sister came over for dinner and presents. Oh let me interrupt to say it started snowing on Christmas morning and didn't stop until the next day!!! Needless to say we had a quick visit with my grandmother and Aunt before they needed to leave because the roads were getting bad. The next day we had 7 inches of snow and it was time to play. Pawpaw, Daddy and Claire went out and played then Gigi, Amber and myself joined in later. John and Pawpaw built a great snowman!!! That evening( Sunday) my dads said of the family came over for dinner and presents. We dont do presents for everyone on that side anymore just for the kids. I think we also watched football that evening. The rest of the week was spent hanging out and having fun. My parents watched Claire on Tuesday so John and I could have a day out! We went to Charlotte and visited the outlet mall and went to a movie. We missed Claire so much but had a great time just us as well. While we were off playing Gigi and Pawpaw took Claire to the children's museum and Chick Fil A. It was a busy week but it was so much fun!!

Claire's Gingerbread house

And of course gingerbread men

Opening presents at Boo's

Puzzles!!!

She became very close with Goofy.

Coming into the room Christmas morning

A little unsure

Mommy come

A dancing snowman!!! Lets just say she loved it and we grew to hate it. haha

Taking it all in

This is out of order. These are the gifts Santa didnt wrap.

Sitting in her new rocking chair and holding her mop and broom

Snow!!

Yummy snow!!

Daddy got her with a snowball

Attempt at family picture

Making her own snowball

Day 2 of snow!

"Help I have fallen and cant get up"

On Pawpaw childhood sled

WEEE this is fun!

On top of the middle of the snowman

Snow angels with daddy

Snow angel with Amber

We made our own sled out of boogie boards!

She loved this

John and Pawpaw and their snowman

Our snowman..Minus arms! haha

Of course we had to have sticker face

Fell asleep on the way to children's museum

Still a little sleepy.

Sitting in the Krispy Kreme truck

Making donuts

Shopping in the grocery store

Checking out

Spider web!( Side note)
The quilts to the left are quilts from the underground railroad made with messages in them.

Little bear beds

Fishing with Pawpaw

Horse and buggy

If there is a stuffed animal Claire will hug it

Building

Of course the stuffed animals have to be together

Spelling her name

Caught in the act. Daddy giving me some chocolate batter

Watching tv with Great Grandpa Hawkins

Playing with the pillows with Grandpa Hawkins

Wearing his hat

Christmas with the Lee's

2010-12-21T15:03:00.001-06:00

We have to switch the Holidays up since our families live so far apart. This year we met John's family in Lexington at his brother Jason's home. We had such a great time!!! Here are a few pictures that should tell you all the fun that was had. Thanks to Jason and Laura for being gracious hostess and to John's parents, sister and Uncle Mike for travelling to see us!

My little reindeer

10 Minutes on the Refrigerator ( A Lee Tradition)

We must always swing

Opening PJ'S from Gee and Dadt. They match there baby dolls

Slide

Matching PJ's

Deep Conversation

Reading the Christmas story with the Nativity Scene

Opening Presents

Claire hit the jackpot on art supplies

Kentucky Book

Claire would not take a nap one day so John went to get her and she went out and slept on him like this for 2 hours!!

New baby stroller from Jason, Laura and Adelyn

The girls with there strollers

Sack of feed

Tunnel Cave

Claire decided to walk through instead of crawl

This is how Claire rides a scooter

Both girls riding

We visited the Southern Lights on Sunday night.

They were very pretty

Feeding animals with Aunt Beth at the petting Zoo( They had a little section of fun things after the lights)

Watching the train with Daddy

Both girls loved this

Claire didnt want to leave

Family Picture

Gee and Dadt watching with Claire

Christmas Party

2010-12-17T09:45:00.000-06:00

We have a close group of friends here in Pikeville that we usually do everything with. They have become our Pikeville family and we are so thankful to have them!!! Last Saturday we hosted a Christmas dinner for all 10 of us. I provided the turkey and rolls and everyone else brought a side and dessert. It was soo yummy!!! Now in our house I have a large kitchen but only have seating for 4 people at our table, so I have to improvise. I think it turned out pretty nice.

Snow Ball

2010-12-16T09:09:00.000-06:00

Sorry its side ways. Daddy did this video.

21 Months

2010-12-08T13:34:00.000-06:00

Yet again I am a few days late on posting. Claire turned 21 months on Sunday. Our house has been under the weather for the past week. Claire has been the sickest but is getting better. Not much has changed since I posted on her 20 month. She is still taking everything in and repeats EVERYTHING. She has the best memory ever!!! Things that I dont remember you can bet Claire will. I thought it would be fun to write some of the things that Claire says daily that crack us up.

'this away this away, Moon"...Claire has to go and see the moon every night. She also has to see it from the back door and the front door .

"Caru, OKKAY"....When Claire wants to be held she says Caru which mean Carry you. I always ask if she wants me to carry her up the stairs so this is where it came from. Okkay is added to almost everything Claire says. It is really funny because she really gets excited.

"Daddy's sleeping..sssshhh" she does this with anyone and puts the tip of her finger in her mouth and says "sssshh".

She is really beginning to say hey to everyone and wave. Its so sweet!! She will also wave and say bye bye when leaving.

Whenever Claire doesnt want to do something she says "uhh, No...." Now we have started saying uhh, No when we dont. haha

There are so many more but I cant post them all.
She is more beautiful and bright everyday and we are so thankful to have her as our daughter!!

Sticker face. Claire thinks it is so fun!!

Snow!!!!

Looking for the moon with daddy!

You Have Mail

2010-11-30T12:59:00.001-06:00

It is beginning to look alot like Christmas in the Lee Household!! The tree is up and stockings are hung and the process of choosing a Christmas Card has begun. Wow there are so many options!! Shutterfly has so many great options that they are making choosing one very difficult!! Here some options I am looking at.

Thanksgiving in Paris

2010-11-30T12:48:00.000-06:00

We spent this Thanksgiving in Paris! We had a great time hanging out with the Lee Family! Claire had many favorite things however, playing elephant and tiger with "Dadt" was frequently asked for. Thanks Gee and Dadt for a great Thanksgiving! We are so thankful for our family!!

Double elephant ride with Adelyn

So much fun

and again...

and again!!

Gobble Gobble!!

Cheese! Playing piano with Aunt Beth

Puzzles

It got cold!

Aunt Nan was exercising, Claire wanted to join in

With Cousin Kathrine.

Oh yes another elephant ride. Chasing tigers!

Uncle Bob getting kisses

Wasn't to happy about Santa this year

Family photo with Rudolph

Looking at the new baby chicks on the farm

Circus

2010-11-30T11:53:00.000-06:00

The weekend before Thanksgiving GiGi and PawPaw came to town and we all went to the circus! Claire loved it. She didnt get to take a nap that day so towards the end she was ready to go but overall she just looked in amazement

"Eant Eant"

Claire took this picture

Lions..Roar!

Happy Birthday GiGi

2010-11-26T08:50:00.005-06:00

Happy Birthday GiGi!!!

Love Claire

20 Months

2010-11-19T07:26:00.000-06:00

Better late than never. We have busy these past few weeks so I just now got a chance to work on the 20 month post. Claire has changed sooo much in the past few weeks. She is now saying almost complete sentences and phrases. She can tell me what she does and does not want and it makes things soo much easier. She is saying the full alphabet when every letter sound as well. She can count to 14 now and loves to count everything!! Her favorite shows right now are Curious George and Super Why. She is also a big fan of Veggie Tales and Sunny Patch Kids. She loves her vegetables and fruits, which make it hard to put on weight. But dont worry she has her father's sweet tooth and loves icing!! :) She would spend all day coloring if she could, which many days I will let her. Her new favorite thing to do when a camera comes out is say cheese and make a funny face. We are amazed everyday at the beautiful and smart little girl she is becoming. It is hard to believe at in 4 short months we will be celebrating her 2nd birthday!! Dont worry the theme and ideas have been picked! haha

Current Stats
Weight 23 pounds...We gained half a pound. yay!!
Height 34 inches tall

She is still wearing size 4 diapers but we will begin potty training in January, after the crazy holiday travels are over.
She is wearing size 18-month-24 month clothing but thats just for pant length because they are always to big in the waist.

Claire telling Maddox things. Does it get any sweeter?

Cheese Face

I forgot to put pictures of Claire painting pumpkins

Another cheese face. This time I just pulled out the camera and she just looked at me and did this .

Perfect place to watch tv.

PawPaw!!!

2010-11-15T14:33:00.000-06:00

Claire loves her some Pawpaw. When he is around the world stops turning and no one else (including mommy) matter. While we were in NC last week Claire got to spend lots of time with PawPaw. Her favorite being the swing. Every time he would come home from work she would run saying "Pawpaw Pawpaw swing, swing" They also rode on the lawn mower and drove the truck( in the neighborhood). She had such a great time.

Watching "Sunny Patch" with PawPaw

Riding the lawn mower

shopping for groceries with mommy

Claire's great-grandpa Hawkins bought her this doll stroller while we were visiting

This picture is out of order. When we left on Friday it was 42 in Pikeville and 40 mins down the road it dropped to 31 and snowing!! Welcome to the mountains!!

Happy Birthday Aunt Amber

2010-11-10T21:22:00.000-06:00

Happy Birthday Aunt Amber!!!

Love you!!!

Blog Maintenance

2010-11-04T16:09:00.002-05:00

Please bare with me as I work to revamp my blog.

Happy Halloween

2010-11-01T07:31:00.000-05:00

This past week we had a couple of Halloween/Fall activities around Pikeville.
Tuesday night they had "Nightmare on Main" which ended being inside the Expo center and was true to its title. It was a NIGHTMARE! We waited 30 mins to get inside then we walked in and walked out because it was too crowded you could hardly move. We got Claire and sucker and she was happy.
Wednesday night the church had a "Family Fun Night" with games , food, and camel rides. Claire loved the camel ride and didnt want to get off!
Thursday I hosted playgroup and the kids got to dress up. Several of the kids weren't able to come but we had a good time with those that did make it. I had the table all cute with food and forgot to take pictures!O well!

We also took Claire to the allergy doctor this week to be tested. We were curious if her allergies were causing her to get all of the colds she has had. We were right. Our little girl is allergic to: Weeds,grass,mold,dust mite,dog and horse. So crazy! We have made some adjustments around the house and she is on allergy medicine that has made her a new Claire. Her eyes arent red, she isnt whiny, and she sleeps better. Praise the lord!!

All the kids at playgroup

Little blurry but Claire in her fairy costume

Cupcakes for the Family Fun Night

Sorry its sideways. The computer wont upload it normal.

Camel ride

Big camel

Claire would throw the balls and I would catch them and say "Got them" and she thought it was hilarious!

Aunt Amber

2010-10-28T07:15:00.000-05:00

This post is a little out of order but my sister came to visit a few weekends ago and it was such a big help because I wasn't feeling great. Claire loved playing with Aunt Amber and cant wait to see her again soon.