Okay, so it's broken

Saturday, Chad got brave and took apart the VCR. We made it a team effort and Avery wanted to help. Chad had taken the top off the VCR and laid it on the floor. Avery stepped on it and bent it in half. Spectacular. I bent it back as close to the right shape as possible. Then Chad stepped on it and cut his toe. He then bled all over the carpet. Marvelous.

We unwound the tape from the machine and pried the cassette out of it. I wound the tape up and saved the cassette. A good start, right? Nope. I found out what was goofing up the VCR. Brace yourself, okay?

Kix cereal.

I flipped the VCR and shook out all the stale kid-tested deliciousness. We replaced the cover and plugged it in. The "cassette in" light was still flashing. Even though we removed the tape, the tape deck was still down, indicating to the sub-human super-smart VCR that it knew better than us. Aarg!

We took the VCR apart again and forced the tape deck to the "up" position. In the process, we snapped one of the parts off. Okay, so new VCR/DVD combo in our near future. We had to go ahead and break the thing even more to remove Avery's precious "Adventures of Elmo in Grouchland" DVD. (She can't live without it. How did she even learn about the little red terror in the first place???)

In other news, Avery got her first professional haircut several days ago. This is just the first time I've gotten around to posting the pix. She didn't make a peep! She just sat really still and acted very serious. I'm really missing the pigtails, but we have no more ragged ends. Yay!

Thursday night gripes

Why? Why must all the good television shows be on the air on the same night at the same time on the one night of the week when Chad isn't here? I am completely addicted to Earl, The Office, & Grey's Anatomy. The Office and Grey's are on at the same time on different networks. Chad doesn't give a flying flitter about Grey's, but he won't miss The Office.

I ran to Walgreen's yesterday to grab some VHS tapes. Then I stuck one in the VCR in our bedroom on NBC and tried to stick the other in the VCR in our study on ABC. However, we are missing the cord that attaches the VCR to the TV. Aarg! So I decided to just record whatever I was watching in the living room.

Chad zipped out the door to softball and I put Avery in bed and grabbed a glass of sweet tea and plopped onto the couch. Then I remembered the tape! I hadn't put it in the VCR! I jumped up quickly and popped it in. It revved its little motor and made a strange sound. I ejected the tape and peered inside. Diaper coupons. Lovely. I pulled them out and tried again. It whirred again and then shut itself off. I turned it back on and pushed the eject button. Nothing. It turned itself off again. You've GOT to be kidding me!

This morning the tape is STILL in the VCR and I have no idea what else might be in there with it. At least I managed to get my cell phone out of there the time my little helper stuck it in there.

Since NBC was being recorded upstairs last night, I watched Grey's on ABC. Then I ran upstairs and watched Earl and The Office. (I have no desire to watch 30 Rock. Not sure why. Love Tina's credit card commercials, though.)

So if any network executives stumble across my blog, please hear my plea. Move SOMETHING to another night. Thank you for Heroes and Dancing with the Stars. And I LOVE YOU CBS for making Survivor available On Demand. (One of Chad's tax clients is on the show this season!) My other plea is to move the good stuff that falls on Wednesday night to another weeknight. I'm never sure what's good on Wednesday since we're at church. It may be time for DVR!

By the way, if anyone has recommendations for getting a VHS tape out of the VCR without breaking either, PLEASE let me know!

The Manipulator

My child is a con artist. She knows how to get what she wants. The bargaining comes mainly at naptime and bedtime. Since she was sick during the last weekend and the first part of this week, her schedule has been a bit "off." A little leniency when she's sick makes her think she can get away with anything.

She uses her sweetest face when making requests and she always says "peeeeese" with her little head cocked to the side. Kill me. I'm a sucker for the cute face.

From what I understand, it gets worse as they get older. Great. What have I gotten myself into? How soon is it to start using the phrase "because I said so"?

The Beach - Take II

I'm just getting around to posting about this past weekend's beach trip. We had planned to go to Gulf Shores with Chad's parents, sister, brother-in-law and niece. Chad's sister called us Wednesday evening. They had left around noon that day to get there ahead of us. They'd been contacted by the condo people telling them that there was a problem with the stove in our condo. They had decided to move us. However, all the places they tried to stick us in were lacking. Julie had done her research and chosen our place because of the size, indoor pool, and proximity to the beach.

She got tough with them. They finally called back to tell us that we'd be in a 3,300 sq. ft. condo just on the other side of the FL/AL border with a wraparound balcony right on the beach. Incredible. The kitchen was top-notch and all the bedrooms had their own bathroom and king sized bed. It was wonderful.

We had been concerned about the weather. When we attempted to go to Hilton Head earlier this summer, the torrential downpour kept us from enjoying anything and the forecast was looking gloomy this time, too. Depressing. However, the rains saved themselves for night. We got a little sprinkle shower one afternoon, but that was all. It was great!

Avery was a bit timid on the beach (as was her cousin Caroline), but she warmed up to the ocean when one of us was holding her. She adored the indoor pool, too. She kept asking to go to the "o-sin" or "da poo."

The rough spot to the weekend (there's always one of those, isn't there?) was the fever Avery woke up with Saturday morning. We thought it might be molars coming in, but then the coughing started. By the time we got home Sunday night, she was miserable. She had a fever off and on until yesterday. The doctor says it's viral, which means we just have to sit and wait. We've been trapped in the house forever and I'm dying to see the light of day again! I think we're on the upswing!

Caroline and Avery were very excited to see each other!

Avery LOVED the indoor pool.

Avery entertains Caroline during tummy time.

Avery and Caroline in deep conversation about sippy cups

Public Apology

I need to publicly apologize to the poor soul I was impatient with on the road today. When I thought she was changing lanes too slowly (and dangerously), she was really having some sort of car trouble. She could tell I was impatient because she mouthed the words "I'm sorry" when I drove past her.

Like a coward, I was too embarrassed to turn around and find out if she needed any help. I just hung my head and finished my drive home.

I've got to learn patience. Too many times in my day I am short with people -- even those I'm closest to -- and I'm a poor reflection of Christ in my day. I am at my worst when I am behind the wheel, too.

So dear, sweet, frustrated, embarrassed driver on the road: I'm so sorry for my behavior today. I hope you can forgive me!

The Secret's Out

I suppose it's finally time to let the cat out of the bag. On March 9, we anticipate the arrival of a new member of the family. Avery is going to be a big sister!

We managed to keep it all quiet for the longest time so we could enjoy it ourselves for a while. I also wanted my clients to maintain their confidence in my skills. I believe I've proven that I'm quite capable of handling all their needs while growing a person at the same time!

I'm thrilled to be pregnant. I love the way my body changes and adore experiencing one of God's most beautiful mysteries. Even now, God is knitting the child together inside me. Wow! Who, after witnessing the miracle of life, would deny believing in God?

I appreciate your prayers during these next 25 (or 26, if this baby is like its sister) weeks. I leave you with the first picture of our little bundle.

Michigan who?

What a thrilling weekend of football! As most of you know, I profess faithfully to be an Alabama football fan. However, DEFINITELY the game of the weekend was the matchup between Michigan and Appalachian State.

My brother John just graduated from App this summer, so I'm not just jumping on the bandwagon blindly. App really shouldn't have been considered the underdog. They've won the last two 1AA national championships and were ranked #1 in the polls again. Michigan was #5. (Not any more!)

John and his friends watched the game from the Hickory Tavern near my parents' house. He said that people were standing on the tables during the last couple of minutes of the game. I can only imagine the chaos! Chad and I watched the re-airing on CSS last night. It was amazing how action-packed the last minute of the game was. Even though I already knew the outcome, I was on the edge of my seat. (It's like watching Titanic!)

We were supposed to spend the weekend in Hilton Head. However, the monsoon rains drove us out. As soon as we were off the island, the clouds parted. We drove up from there to my parents' house to enjoy better weather. I'll be sure to post pictures of our mini-vacation when I get them from Mom.

Wild Child

My daughter is half Tasmanian devil. In the last week, she has found another level of energy and fun. She'll run and jump and spin in circles while squealing with delight. On Sunday afternoon, she thrashed around on my friend's living room floor laughing and jumping on Steve-o's chest. But as soon as we put her in her carseat for the drive home, she could barely hold her eyes open. She slept--HARD--for 5 hours in the car.

I've decided that this wild chaos is her way of trying to stay awake. I really must capture it all on camera and post here for your viewing enjoyment. It makes me tired just watching her.

Goodbye, Ol' Bird

This morning, Nannie, my great-grandmother (and Avery's great-great-grandmother), passed away peacefully. Until the last week, she's been doing very well, but she took a rough turn. She had a strong heart, but the rest of her was wearing out. To have been 90, I think that's pretty impressive.

Around midnight, her breathing slowed down and became more peaceful. She'd had what the doctors call a "death rattle" in her chest for a day or so, but her last hours were calm. With two of my aunts by her side, she opened her eyes (for the first time in 4 or 5 days) and looked at them intently. Then she squeezed their hand and exhaled one last relieved time. She was gone.

For the last few years, she has always talked of being eager to go be with Jimmie, my great-grandfather, who preceded her in death. She has acted ready for a long time, so I know she's thrilled to be together with him again.

I will always miss her and remember all my favorite things about her -- fresh figs on the kitchen counter, ginger ale on a hot day, climbing the clothesline in her yard, her beautiful roses. She was always wonderful to me and loved Chad like he'd always been hers. I am better from knowing her.

So here's to Jamie Burgess, my Nannie. I love you, Ol' Bird.

Dog days of summer

Avery's been very busy while she's out of preschool this month. (I'm hanging in there, by the way, but very eager for Crieve Hall MDO to start up again in September!) Here are a few pictures from our fun lately:

Grandma and Avery, playing with a little bottle --hours of fun


Yummy watermelon on the deck, stripped down to a diaper to save the clothes!


Cooling off in the little pool -- so hot, even I had to join her!


Noshing on corn on the cob - she wouldn't let us pry it out of her hands before leaving the restaurant!


Enjoying a refreshing hose-off at the Troup farm


Playing in the dryer. Don't worry -- it wasn't on! She was having a ball!

Everything

This video moved me to tears. Thank you, Jillina, for sharing it with me. It's pretty incredible.

August already?

Okay, so July totally got away without me. I'm not quite ready for August, but it's here. It will be my busiest month this year by far. Avery is out of school this month and I have added two new clients. If you see me out and about and I seem to be in the zone, snap your fingers and welcome me back to Earth.

We've spent a lot of time indoors the last couple of weeks. It's just TOO HOT. It's almost not even worth going to the pool. I may just have to grin and bear the scorching heat on our walk to the pool for the relieving cool of the water.

We spent last weekend in Florence with my mom and brothers. They drove in from NC to play on the lake with us. My grandparents got a trampoline for the lake that is anchored on the lake bottom with a cinder block. I wish I had video of my mom trying to simply get on it. The actual jumping was just icing on the cake.

You would have thought it was Thanksgiving on Saturday as most of the family gathered from across the South to celebrate Grandpa's 62nd birthday. Grandma's kitchen was full of home-cooked Southern food and, as every year before, we dug into the annual prune cake -- Grandpa's favorite!

Avery had a ball running back and forth between all the cousins. I really wish we lived closer to all of them because Avery thrives on the family interaction. She's started speaking in sentences and over the weekend, her vocabulary seemed to develop even more. It's so fun to see!

No pictures this time, but I'll be sure to capture some of Avery's antics for next time.

C'mon, Vogue!

Well, I've got a new passion. Modeling. I honestly believe I'm terrible at it, but it's so much fun!

Earlier this week, I got a call from a former client, asking me if I could be a model for a photo shoot for a feature in the Tennessean. Oh, the pressure! I caved. I'm a sucker for trying on clothes and shoes, so I agreed.

This morning, the photographer and feature writer came to Petite Boutique for the shoot. The owner, Laurie Roe, pulled a few outfits for me to try and we got down to business. The Tennessean team was wonderful. They gave great direction and were very generous with their compliments. It was a nice little ego boost.

I had a great time this morning and even came home with a new pair of sunglasses.

Watch for the feature in Sunday's edition of The Tennessean.

Consumer Review

For the last several months, I've been begging Chad for new carpet or hardwoods. The people who lived her before obviously never walked on this carpet because it was gorgeous when we purchased this home. However, when we moved in, let the dogs temporarily rule the roost and then had a child who loves to make a mess, our gorgeous carpet bid us adieu and its ugly alter-ego took over.

It was obvious what our normal path was -- down the stairs, into the kitchen, and onto the couch -- the carpet ratted us out by pointing the way with dingy dirt. We also couldn't hide the fact that we're habitual tea drinkers because of the spill stains in not-so-subtle places.

A few months ago, I called Stanley Steemer. (It drives me crazy that they won't spell it right! That was just their first mistake.) They sent out Tweedle Dee and Tweedle Dumb to clean our carpet. In the dead of winter, I couldn't close the door because the hoses had to be run in from their van outside. They also informed me that the girl who "just answers the phone" incorrectly assured us that the spots would come out of the carpet. So much for the guarantee. I was a totally dissatisfied customer.

After grumbling and complaining too much, I went to look at carpet. Should I fork out the big bucks for the good stuff that I'll love or purchase the cheap stuff and hope we can move soon? Oh, the angst.

Last week, however, after my weekly grocery run (Who am I kidding? It's a grocery journey -- LONG journey.) I noticed a rack of Rug Doctor machines by the checkout line. When I got home, I unloaded the food and jumped on the computer to do a little research. For about $40, I could rent the machine and additional upholstery cleaning hose for a day and also purchase the concentrated carpet cleaning solution. A small investment. The reviews and testimonials sold me.

I ran back to the store with Avery on my hip and rented the bad boy. I even rolled it to my car and put it in by myself while still holding her. Something told me my doors wouldn't have to stay open while the carpet was being cleaned this time.

I vacuumed the house quickly and went to work steam cleaning away. It was marvelous! That machine sucked all the nastiness out of my worn out carpet. You no longer can tell where the main traffic paths are. I might be able to get a few more years out of my carpet.

A quick disclaimer: If you come to visit me and don't think my carpets look smokin' hot, get over it. You should've seen the before shots! Go get you a Rug Doctor, too!

Getting frisky

Well, we made it home, but not without incident. We had our luggage packed, had breakfast, grabbed a cab, and headed to the airport. The security line wasn't too bad, so we felt good about our trek through the terminal. However, I started beeping through the metal detector. I backed up, removed my watch and bracelet and walked through again. Beeped again. Then I realized that I still had my very large hoop earrings in. Too late.

I got whisked into a plexiglass holding pen with a man who looked like an old man extra from a Saudi Arabian film. They very obtrusively summoned a female security officer who made me "spread 'em" and frisked me. It was the earrings. Duh.

For a split second, I thought about being embarrassed. Then I looked around and remembered that I was in Las Vegas -- the city of lunatics -- so I blew it off.

We had a wonderful time -- seeing all the city sights, losing only about $20 (since Chad has self control), and lounging by the pool. We managed to avoid a couple of disasters at the HR convention Chad was helping with, and felt great about it before leaving town. We ate WAY too much, walked WAY too far and smelled WAY too much cigarette smoke, but all in all it was a spectacular place to travel together.

We came home to a very excited Avery, who ran back and forth between Chad and me hugging us over and over again. I LOVE that. Even though it was nice to get some time alone without her, we missed the little booger and couldn't wait to get home to her.

I'll leave you with a few pictures from our trip. We didn't have a single one of ourselves -- just the sights. Oh well. Enjoy!

The beautiful Bellagio before the infamous fountain show

The Eiffel Tower at the Paris resort

The volcano at the Mirage

Sweet time with Papa when he was in town for a funeral

Cheesin' it up with Nana and her super fun Green Tea bottle

Today's high

Chad and I are in Las Vegas for the next few days -- sans Avery. His parents came up Thursday and my mom is relieving them today. Chad is helping with set-up and dismantle for a Healthways trade show booth at two conventions, so I'm tagging along.

This place is really amazing. It stinks like a giant ashtray, but the architectural details are phenomenal. We've exhausted ourselves each day so far with all the walking and intense heat. The high this weekend is 109!!! The low is 88. It's a really dry heat, so it doesn't feel as bad as 90 in Nashville, but it does feel like we're just standing in front of an open oven door.

We're at Bally's, next to Paris and across from the Bellagio. We watched the fountain show last night. It's amazing that they'd give up that much precious real estate for a big pond, but it draws so many people.

We've played a few slots and some video poker, but Chad won't let me bet more than 5 cents at a time. I keep telling him that a big investment equals a big return, but he keeps reminding me that we haven't lost more than about $10 so far.

This is the first time we've both left Avery overnight. We don't have a problem with it -- we just don't have any family in town to leave her with. She's in great hands with her grandparents and I'm sure she's getting spoiled beyond belief. I miss her terribly, though. Every time I see a child (not sure why ANYONE would want to bring a child here), I miss her even more.

Well, I'm finally off to eat breakfast. I know, I know. It's 11:50 to my body right now, but we're on VACATION! I'll post pictures when we return. Have a great weekend, bloggers!

Pool drama

After Avery's second day of "school" today at Crieve Hall, I took her to the pool at the Y. It's her favorite place now. She's thrilled with being soaked to the bone.

Avery showed off her jumping off the side moves. Another mom with a daughter a little older than Avery struck up a conversation with me about their comfort level in the pool. It was an ever-so-brief chat, but a few minutes later, I noticed her across the pool with something all over her cheek.

She started trying to get the attention of her older daughter and I heard her give instructions to get out of the pool. After a closer look, I realized that she was holding the back of her baby's head and the 'something' all over her cheek was blood. She rushed over to the first aid station and the lifeguards were helping her stop the bleeding and trying to get her husband on the phone. They were pretty sure the baby would need stitches. She had slipped and hit her head in the shallow sloping end of the kiddie pool.

What do you do in a situation like that??? I would flip out if I were that mom. She couldn't drive to the hospital because she needed to keep pressure on the back of her baby's head. I tried to get her to let me drive them to the hospital, but she was nervous about driving without the baby in a carseat (and she'd just met me 20 minutes earlier.)

I felt compelled to help, so Avery and I gathered up her stroller, shoes, towels, pool floats and other belongings and kept her other daughter Joanna (probably age 5) occupied while she and the lifeguards waited for her husband to arrive.

In the mean time, Joanna said her stomach hurt because she was hungry. We went to my pool chair to get fruit snacks and cash and I got her and Avery each an ice cream sandwich. They were a mess, but stayed out of everyone's hair. We decided to play on the playground, but Joanna changed her mind on the way over because she needed to go to the bathroom. She informed me that she needed help and that she was sorry because it was "really messy." I wasn't prepared for that, but we survived.

Joanna was so polite and sweet, so it was an absolute pleasure to be able to help however I could. Once her daddy arrived, the whole family rushed off to take care of business and get the baby's head checked out. I certainly hope I see them again in better circumstances.

Is it summer yet?

I know it's not quite summer yet, but it sure feels like it. It's HOT. But thank heavens for the pool at the YMCA. Avery and I have been hitting it up every day. She's a big fan of splashing around. She's pretty brave, too. She's not afraid of the freezing cold water. I just have to grin and bear it so she doesn't get out of reach.

We spent the holiday weekend in Huntsville with Chad's family. Saturday was devoted to tromping around on the farm. Avery loved the barn and got to pet her first cow! It was the one that was born the same day as her. All the other cows run when you get too close, but "Avery's cow" will walk right up to you expecting some attention. All the photos are on Chad's parents' camera because I bought the wrong size battery! At least we had the video camer for other stills from the last few days.

I ran by Target this morning and bought a pack of the right size batteries so I won't have any more excuses for not documenting all the growing up going on in our house. I'm always behind the camera, so here are some good pictures of Avery with Daddy.

Cuddling by the pool

Eating spaghetti

"Helping" Daddy wash the car

"Helping" Daddy water the lawn

Playing in the bathtub with our buddy Madeline

Mother's Day and Field Day

I totally intended to post yesterday, but Chad and I got wrapped up in a crossword puzzle. We're addicts. Ever since we subscribed to the paper, we're hooked!

Mother's Day was wonderful. Avery got me a sweet card and flowers and she helped Daddy make lunch for me. I got to take it easy for the day.

I LOVE being a mom. And it's so cliche, but I never knew how much my mom loved me until I had Avery. This is technically my third Mother's Day because two years ago on Mother's Day I learned I was pregnant with Avery. What a cool day!!!!

Today, Avery and I spent the morning at Kirkpatrick Elementary. I had the stroller loaded with fruit snacks and I hauled around a couple of coolers full of Capri Suns for the kiddos. They are hilarious! I wish I'd had my camera (but, of course, yet again, I don't have batteries). My class won Tug-o-War!

The kids wanted to take turns "helping" with Avery. They had a ball pushing her stroller and following her around and feeding her fruit snacks. They've all come a long way since the first of the year. I can hardly believe the year is almost over. Wow! First Grade, here they come!

Well, I'm sweaty, so it's time for a shower. Till next time . . .

Tongue bite or terrified?

Yesterday evening, we all sat down to dinner at the kitchen table. A fly had gotten into the house at some point and it was driving us crazy while we were eating. I rolled up a section of the newspaper and started swatting at it. After flailing around the kitchen like a lunatic, I finally knocked the fly out and beat it senseless on the floor.

I was incredibly proud of myself, but I looked up to see Avery's face. I've never seen anything like it. She looked terrified and was bawling her eyes out. I'm still not sure if she had bitten her tongue while eating or if she was genuinely frightened that I had killed a helpless (albeit germ-carrying) creature. I wish I had a photograph of the look on her face. I honestly haven't see anything like it in my life.

I shouldn't have excuses for not posting pictures. Just call it laziness. We haven't taken many photos lately because the camera battery died and I haven't bought new ones yet. Maybe soon. Til then . . .

I Know, I Know

It's been over a week since my last post. But I have an excuse! I've been in Florence visiting my family while Chad was in Selma, Alabama for his last audit trip. Hooray! I haven't been chained to my computer like I usually am. Lola and I are gearing up for a new campaign, so in the interim I'm trying to get in all my visitin'.

My first day at my grandparents, my Grandpa patted my belly, thinking I was pregnant. I quickly scolded him and informed him that pregnancy was being prevented and that my empire waist shirt was completely in style right now. I also told him NEVER to assume a woman is pregnant until she tells him herself. Men!

Avery has been honking like the geese in the lake out back, but not on purpose. She has a cough that is finally breaking up, but now she's got a mid-grade fever and hasn't been interested in food (which is TOTALLY not like her!) She's pitiful. I just hope she sleeps well tonight.

No pictures today -- again. Sorry! I've gotta upload the latest when I get back to Nashvegas. Till then . . .

Missed it

I completely missed it. It will possibly be one of the most talked-about news stories of the week. Sanjaya is gone.

I really wish I had been able to tune in to see him get the boot. Since websites are regulated to keep results secret until the west coast feed, I had to wait until JUST NOW to find out. I hope my eyes aren't playing tricks on me.

All I've gotta say now is: Shine, Melinda, shine! Be sure to vote, everyone!

Reading out loud

I drive my sweet husband crazy every night when I read through all my favorite blogs. I laugh out loud and then proceed to read the blog to him so I can share the hilarity with him. He usually doesn't get it. He's not the stay-at-home mom who relates to all the other stay-at-home moms who have kiddos who do funny things.

Thank you, blogger moms, for sharing your kids' funny stories. We need the laughs (sometimes just to get through the day and know we're not alone.)

My other babies

Thursdays are my favorite! I volunteer in Mrs. Jones' kindergarten class at Kirkpatrick Elementary and love (almost) every minute of it. The kids are hilarious and so much fun, even though sometimes they have a tough time behaving. Mrs. Jones is a great teacher and gives these kids every chance in the world to thrive.

THANK YOU to everyone who has kept Avery for me so I can volunteer at Kirkpatrick. I'm so sorry for begging all the time. Please know that you are a ministry to me. I love you!

I also look forward to The Office & Grey's Anatomy and this week, Notes from the Underbelly! Loafing with my girlfriends in front of the TV this week!

Here are my Kirkpatrick babies:

Asma, San'Twan, & Tyssa

Reginae & Liric

Terelle & Michelle

Javontae

Terelle & Ashton

Fun with Crayons

Avery has taken interest in crayons lately. I'm not exactly sure she knows what to do with them, though. She knows they draw on paper, but she hasn't figured out how to use enough pressure to make the markings dark enough to see. At least she can't draw on herself! She mostly likes to empty them out on the floor and put them back in the box and hide them in the fireplace. Sounds fun, eh?

I'll leave you with a sweet photo of part of our bedtime ritual. We read a book and sing a prayer before bed. Tonight's book was Touch and Feel Baby Animals.

Still here

Hi blogger friends. We've had a very busy last few days. We're glad to have a lighter schedule, but I'm really going to miss rehearsal for the Easter concert.

Yesterday will go down in history as my favorite morning of worship EVER! It was wonderful and a very encouraging way to celebrate my birthday. We capped off the day with a concert that night. I am so blessed to sing with all those talented people. Brandon deserves some high praise for all the work he does, the hours he puts into it and the selfless heart he has for the ministry at Otter Creek.

My parents were in town this weekend. We went to Florence for a couple of hours on Saturday to check in on Nannie and Grandaddy and found them both doing well. We had lunch at Grandma's and braved the cold while the kiddos hunted eggs. Even though it was pure chaos there, I loved having everybody together. I miss my parents so much and hate that we live so far away. We're planning our next trip to see them. It won't be soon enough.

I'll leave you with some pictures to enjoy. Thanks for checking on us!
Avery (and her funny pony tail) at the hospital waiting for Caroline's birth

Enjoying the warm weather and soft grass

Exploring the zoo (on the most crowded day of the year)

Hot tubbin' with my college buddies at Tickled Blue Cabin on Center Hill Lake

Writing implements

Avery is very observant. She doesn't miss a thing. Chad and I have caught her doing just about anything to mimic us. She has noticed how we write with pens or pencils and always wants to do the same. We gave in and let her carry around a click-top pen that we didn't think she could open. I think we have underestimated her.

This morning, I gave her the pen and she pretended to write on a book. In a split second, she managed to open the pen. Not only was she writing on the book, but she had also drawn all over her legs. I quickly took the pen away—leaving her thrashing about on the floor—and got out the video camera.

I dug out some crayons for her to try. I thought she'd love them since they're colorful. We did a little bit of drawing together on a legal pad, but she just wanted to put them back in the box.

When she lost interest and moved along to playing with her blocks, I thought I was in the clear. But Avery dug out one of the crayons and tried to draw on every toy she had. I either need more cleaning products or a safer writing implement.

The MySpace Vortex

Some of you may be wondering what has happened to us lately. MySpace. I got sucked in. I'm not sure how it happened, but I'm addicted.

A few days ago, my brother John told me that he found Hanna, our Austrian exchange student from 1996/97, on MySpace. So I got on his page to see what they'd been talking about and to read up on her. I got curious and started searching for old friends from grade school. It was so bizarre to see how many people are on MySpace.

The strangest part for me, though, was learning how little discretion some people have on there. They feel the freedom to use words they'd never use in public -- maybe just assuming that their parents, church friends, potential employers, whomever, may never see it.

I started subscribing to the newspaper last week. A few days ago, I found an article about how some people aren't getting jobs they interview for simply because their potential employers looked them up on MySpace and didn't like what they saw. They've thrown away the value of their education and experience by posting stupid pictures or saying crass things. I honestly believe that comments other people post on your profile can be harmful to your reputation, too.

So as far as I'm concerned, at least for now, I'm keeping a close eye on what ends up on there.

And by the way, the newness will wear off soon, so I'll be back to blogging more regularly.

My Celebrity Look-alikes

My cool celebrity look-alike collage from MyHeritage.com. Get one for yourself.

I'm an aunt!

My niece, Caroline Marie Streling, was born Saturday afternoon in Huntsville, AL. She is so beautiful! She was born at 3:55 p.m. and was 8 lbs., 8 oz., and 20 inches long. Julie was a powerhouse and did great during the delivery. She and Shawn are going to be great parents. I'll post pictures later. I took plenty!

When babies are born, I can't help but be overwhelmed with the responsibility that God has given us to raise a child of His. He entrusted us with the job of housing His little workshop where He knitted our children together in our womb. He formed us all from nothing and His plan for us is perfect. I am in awe. It makes everything else seem so petty and insignificant.

On another note, Chad's parents told us they were ready for us to have more kids. Wow! Didn't see that one coming!

Avery walks!

Hello friends! Avery finally decided to take her first steps today. She got really brave, really fast. I'm sure we're moments away from her skipping this altogether and taking on running instead. Enjoy!

Happy Birthday Baby!

Today is my sweet husband's birthday. I noticed Phil Wilson's blog yesterday about his wife Sheryl's birthday and thought it was so sweet the way he spoke of their budding romance in college.

Chad and I met in college, too. He and his roommate were throwing an Alabama football outside the dorm during his freshman year (yes, I'm robbing the cradle) when I was walking by from the far parking lot. One of them missed the ball and it came rolling my way. We introduced ourselves and briefly discussed our mutual affection for Crimson Tide football (in the good years and bad). We were acquaintances through the next couple of years and our paths crossed again in the Spring of 2001 for a Sigma Iota Delta function when Chad was pledging. Our first date was at the Jack Daniels Distillery!

I really enjoyed his company and found myself sorting through my feelings when he was at the beach for Spring Break. When he returned to campus, we started spending more and more time together and then had the dreaded DTR talk (define the relationship.) We decided to start it off with prayer and we prayed every day (even when we broke up for a couple of weeks in 2002.) Then our relationship came full circle when Chad asked me to marry him after the Iron Bowl in November 2002.

I am so blessed by our marriage. Chad is the best friend I could ask for. We truly enjoy spending time together. We get along. We laugh a lot. We have a wonderful daughter together. Chad is my world.

So Happy Birthday Sweetheart! I love you.

Lent

On Tuesday after Women's Bible Study, I sipped on some Mickey D's Sweet Tea while Avery and I wandered around the auditorium refilling the encouragement cards. (Side note: If Tim asks you to use an encouragement card for anything besides a note of encouragement, try to share with a neighbor!) I didn't remember that it would be my last sweet tea for quite a while.

You see, I decided that for Lent, I would give up soft drinks -- all of 'em: tea, Coke, juice . . . everything but water. Ouch! I've given up Cokes for Lent the last few years and managed to survive. Those of you who know me know that my mouth waters at the sound of an aluminum can being opened. I'm not Catholic, but I think it's important to give something up for a season to commemorate Jesus' withdrawal to the wilderness. It's a time of contemplation, reflection, and repentance.

Already, I feel better. I've only been drinking water. My energy level is up. My joints feel good. I even survived a challenging hour of Kickboxing with Joy at the Y this morning. (Thanks Amy!)

As I've been learning more about Lent, I've found out that it originated in the very earliest days of the Church as a preparatory time for Easter, when the faithful rededicated themselves and when converts were instructed in the faith and prepared for baptism.

Not many churches still observe Lent. In the 16th century, many Anabaptists discarded Christian holy days on the theory that they were Roman innovations. Today, we know that they were wrong (as was discovered 300 years later), but it was too late for the groups who had already wiped them from their calendars. So I know it isn't exactly the norm for Christians to observe Lent, but from up here on my soapbox, I'd just like to recommend that you use the next 39 days to reflect on what Christ did for us. Wow! Okay, I'm stepping down now.

On a completely different note, Avery had an eye exam today. It was with the InfantSee program at Donelson Eye Care. Nothing is wrong with her, but since it's a free program, I thought I'd make sure Avery's eyes were healthy. She loved watching the little flashlight and playing with the toys, but she was NOT a fan of having drops put in her eyes or being held down. When it was all said and done, though, the worst part was afterward when she realized that she couldn't see very well up close due to the pupil dilation. I hate that part, too.

Girls' Night Out

We had a really great weekend. On Friday, Chad, Avery, and I grabbed dinner and then went to see Baby Elijah Norman. He's precious. Congratulations Bart & Kristen!

On Saturday, we woke up to snow! And it was still coming down. Avery got a cute little stepstool for her birthday from her buddy Jay, so she's been sliding it up to the window to climb on so she can see outside. Saturday was a lazy day filled with lounging in front of the TV and folding laundry. I even got a little nap in.

Saturday afternoon, I bundled up and headed out - ALONE! - to meet my friend Keeley for a matinee and dinner. Keeley and her husband, Gene, just moved back to Nashville from Charlotte, NC. Her mom and my mom were college roomies, so we've known each other all our lives. We met up at the movies and saw Music and Lyrics. It was pretty cute. Definitely glad I saw it with Keeley instead of Chad. He doesn't exactly appreciate chick flicks.

Then we headed to Smokey Bones for dinner. Gene is the manager there and I'm a HUGE fan of their ribs. We got in some good girl chatter and gave the snow time to finish falling. It's really nice to have a close friend here now. We were able to pick right up where we left off. I'm going to enjoy spending time with her again.

On the way home, I saw several pileups (I assume due to ice.) Some people don't know how to drive in adverse weather. STAY OFF THE ROAD!!!!

Sunday morning, our neighborhood streets were a skating rink (that one's for you, Gene!) We drove carefully to church and had a great morning. We wasted the afternoon away napping and then returned to church for the Baby Blessing. Otter Creek is full of little munchkins. Janet and Melanie, our children's ministers, must put something in the water to affect the congregation's fertility. Job security, I'm sure.

Well, so it's Monday, and a holiday at that. I love a fresh start. Have a great week, everybody!

Last night at Bunco, our newest player Heather Miller accused me of being a bad blogger. I don't profess to be a great blogger, nor do I promise to blog every day, but I'm not that bad. A few days ago, I even blogged about how infrequently I blog. But I'm not a bad blogger. All that to say, I'm going to be better about posting.

I haven't posted much lately because I don't have photos on this computer. I feel guilty when I don't include a picture with each and every entry. (By the way, this computer is the same one from my freshman year of college, I think.) Chad's work laptop archives all our photos, but he's been shopping around for a new computer for me. Hooray! We're searching for a laptop I can use for my business -- public relations and marketing, for those of you who don't know -- that also has enough memory to keep up with all our priceless pictures of our adorable little girl.

I spend hours in front of the computer each day working on PR campaigns and writing proposals. I'm also on the phone quite a bit. So when I have free time (Who am I kidding? I don't have any free time!) I don't usually want to spend it in front of aforementioned computer.

I really do enjoy blogging. It's a fantastic emotional outlet. Of course, let's be honest. Sometimes what I really want to say shouldn't ever be posted for just anyone to read. You don't want to hurt feelings. You don't want psycho stalkers to know every detail of your schedule. You don't want in-laws to have a cow about your still-unrefined parenting skills. You catch my drift.

So it's Valentine's Day. I TOLD Chad not to do anything special or buy anything for me. Money's pretty tight around here since I left Nelson to stay home with Avery. However, this morning, I woke up to two dozen incredibly gorgeous hybrid roses -- without thorns!!! They are the same kind we had in our wedding, but quite possibly even more beautiful.

Thank you, darlin', for being my best friend. I'm the luckiest girl in the world.

Spoke too soon

Thank you for all the congratulatory comments on my last post about Avery's tremendous bathroom accomplishments, but you have jinxed me. Tonight, I stripped off Avery's animal-cracker-crusted clothes and stood her up next to the tub while I drew the water. She relieved herself all over the floor. Are you happy???

The proof is in the potty

I kid you not. My 12-month-old actually peed in the potty today.

After Bible study today, Heather, Darci, and I took the kids to Wendy's for a quick lunch. We'll never go there again -- at least not together -- because there are only two highchairs in the entire restaurant. After Avery stuffed herself, she got this look on her face like, "Just leave me alone because I'm really working on something here." I didn't check her diaper because I couldn't change her there anyway. There's no changing table at Wendy's, either. (Another reason NEVER to go again.)

On the way home, she was giving me "the look" again. When we got home, I almost couldn't get her out of the carseat because she held her body as stiff as a board. She was pushing so hard that she wouldn't bend. I took her upstairs to change her, but she hadn't done anything yet.

Chad and I got her a potty for her birthday and I had put it together last night. (Quick disclaimer: I don't expect her to use it yet. I just wanted her to get used to having it around for when the time is right.) But since it was up, I thought it would be funny to see if she'd do her business in it (since she was pushing anyway.)

I sat her down on it and she relaxed a little but never pooped. (Wow! Am I actually using bathroom words in my blog?!?) Then she started smiling and got up. She had peed in her potty and she was SO PROUD of herself -- as was I. Maybe we've got something started here.

I don't think it would be appropriate to post pictures of this feat on the blog, but I did leave it in there so Chad can see it when he comes home from work today. Won't he be thrilled?

Checkup

I took Avery for her one-year checkup this morning, bright and early. We try to get the earliest appointment so we can be home in time for a nap. It was terribly cold this morning, so we bundled up tight. Avery thinks that bundling is hilarious since her hood has faux fur around it and it tickles her face. I love it!

I digress. We started out in the waiting room where Avery banged on the fish tank (poor frightened-out-of-their-gills fish) and made friends with a Hispanic toddler. When Debi, our nurse called us back, Avery got a little gun shy. I stripped her down to her diaper (which she loves), but she just about had a meltdown when Debi tried to measure her head. She checked her weight (19 lbs, 13.2 oz) and length (29 1/4 in) and we waited for Dr. Morel by reading really old magazines.

When Dr. Morel entered, Avery seemed a bit more relaxed until I had to hold her down to let Dr. Morel listen to her heart and lungs and have her ears, nose, and throat checked. She screamed so loud that I was barely able to hear my questions answered about milk and naps and all the other oh-so-important parenting topics. I think I got the gist of it.

I reclothed Avery—all but her cargo pants—and Debi returned with needles. Again, Avery flipped out. Three shots. She has turned into a really loud crier. Bless. Nevertheless, we survived and earned sparkly bandaids for our trouble. She's been a little angel the rest of the day.

I also made my modeling debut this afternoon, showing off some of the styles from Petite Boutique on NBC's More at Midday. I've grown quite fond of an adorable pair of heels from there. Can't wait until the store opens Thursday!

Last thing: photos have been posted from Avery's birthday party. They are a featured event on the Jennifer Photography website.

This time last year . . .

I gave birth to my precious Avery Elise one year ago today. I can't believe it's been a whole year. Where did it go? I was warned by every parent before me that it would fly by. "Don't blink," they'd tell me, "or you might miss something." Nothing can prepare you for the sting when you realize that your baby is growing up and that she'll never be that tiny again.

My due date had come and gone. Contractions finally started around 4 a.m. Wednesday, January 25. They were coming regularly, so I thought I'd have a baby by the end of the day. Little did I know that I'd be lucky to have a baby by the end of the week. She took her sweet time getting here.

After laboring at home the whole day, we finally decided to head to the hospital around 1 a.m. when contractions were about 3 1/2 minutes apart. However, after the nurses checked me, they confirmed that I was truly in labor but recommended that I go home and continue to labor there so they wouldn't have to try drug intervention. (We were bound and determined to do this whole labor thing without the help of drugs.) So we turned around and headed back to our house.

I got a couple hours of interrupted sleep and took a shower. Chad probably needed the rest more than I did. (My body was made for this. His wasn't.) The doctor had planned to induce on Friday if I hadn't delivered by then, so we had a scheduled "final exam" at his office on Thursday at 1 to make sure all was well. My contractions were about 2 minutes apart at this point and I had progressed enough to head back to Centennial for the delivery. So Dr. Staggs sent me on my way and promised to be close behind. When we got on I-65, though, traffic was at a standstill. I thought I'd have to deliver my child on the shoulder of the interstate! But the Lord was smiling down on us and we made it to the hospital in plenty of time.

Lamaze prepared me well for this big moment. The breathing worked wonders. Chad was a great coach and helped me stay focused. He even talked me off the ledge and reminded me that I really didn't want the epidural. After 45 minutes of pushing, Avery Elise Troup entered the world at 6:23 p.m. weighing in at 8 pounds, 1 ounce and measuring 21 1/2 inches long. She was perfect in every way.

It's hard to fathom that we've had this little family for a year now. It has been the most fulfilling, rewarding experience of my life. I can't believe she's mine.

As an extra added bonus, Avery was born on her great, great grandmother's 89th birthday. What a special gift!

So today, Happy 90th Birthday Nannie! You are so special to us. And Happy Birthday Avery Elise! You are my pride and joy. Thank you for making our lives so new and exciting every day. And thank you for giving me the best job in the world -- Mommy!

Posting

I jump on Blogger every day. No kidding. Every day. I check to see if anyone has commented and I read everyone else's blogs. I complain to myself when there's nothing new on some of them (for example, Ginger Willingham hasn't posted since June), but then I realize that other people are probably doing the same with my blog -- checking to see who has posted and realizing that Laura Troup still hasn't blogged. Sorry!

Lately, I've felt like I haven't had anything to blog about. My life seems overwhelmingly boring even to me right now. My friend, Lola, and I are still working around the clock to solicit media coverage on next week's opening of Petite Boutique. I was there at the store today as Talk of the Town was on site taping a segment about the store to air Wednesday, January 31. The store looks fantastic. All the clothes and accessories aren't in yet and all the fixtures aren't up yet, but you wouldn't know it. In fact, while we were there, people kept popping in, not realizing that the store wasn't open yet. Those petites are ready to shop! Laurie and Lori (the owners) have really put their blood, sweat and tears into this place and it shows. I'm so excited to be a part of it.

Other than that, I'm boring. A couple of posts ago, I was talking about Avery's schedule and how good it was for us. It is good, but it keeps us tied to the house sometimes. I have a hard time doing anything but parenting and grocery shopping. I'm still volunteering at Kirkpatrick Elementary, but I just about have to pull my hair out to ensure that I've got a babysitter for Avery each week. It's virtually impossible. (I wonder if I can convince any of our family to move here to be "on call" sitters.) I wish I could drag Avery along to the school with me, but she'd be such a distraction.

On another note, this time last year, I was majorly in labor. I was starving since I was told I couldn't eat after I went into labor. I wasn't aware that my labor would be 40 hours or I would've grabbed a meal as soon as contractions started. I'm glad to have eaten today.

I'll definitely share the rest of the story tomorrow. For now, I'm off to whip up dinner. Laura DePasquale (she'll always be Laura Ellis to me, though) and her husband Eric are coming over for dinner and prime time TV tonight. Should be fun! Till next time . . .

Introducing . . .

In case you haven't noticed, I have added a couple of links to my toolbar. One is under Links. It's Petite Boutique, a new store opening in Cool Springs on February 1. The site isn't complete yet, so keep checking back for updates. The other is under Friends' Blogs. It's Laurie Roe. Laurie is the owner of Petite Boutique and she blogs about the day-to-day tasks of being an entrepreneur and getting this adorable store open for business.

I'm working with Laurie to help promote Petite Boutique's opening. It's an amazing idea. I can't believe nobody around here has done this already, but there's not another petite store in Tennessee—that we know of. In the department store world, the ever-shrinking petite sections have become a disappointment. I've resorted to shopping in the regular sections and getting everything altered. But that gets expensive

In Laurie's research before she decided to open the store, she learned that 43% of women are petite—5'4" or shorter. (I can't think of a single department store that dedicates 43% of their real estate to petites.) She also learned that petite women are terribly frustrated with the lack of options they have when looking for clothing. So she's filling a need.

Inspired by Kate Spade's successful business launch, Laurie took a leap of faith of her own to start Petite Boutique and she is succeeding to serve the underserved. So if you get the chance, go out and visit her at 401-A Cool Springs Blvd, between McAlister's Deli and Moe's Southwest Grill. Congratulate her on making her dreams come true—and get yourself some new clothes!

Dinosaurs

Anyone remember the dreadfully annoying television show "Dinosaurs" from somewhere in the blur of the nineties? The baby dinosaur called its father "not the Mama." The poor father dinosaur seemed broken-hearted about this one -- getting cold seconds after the Mama Dinosaur got the most love and affection.

I feel somewhat the same. Although she spends most of her waking hours with me, Avery very rarely says "mama." I know it's not a big deal, but it kills me. She says "dadadadadada" all day long (and don't even get me started on "dog"). She even calls me "dada" sometimes. So I'm thinking of changing my name to "not the Dada." How's that?

Her nap schedule has improved significantly. We actually have a routine! While I feel like it's great for her, I think it's even better for me. It has forced me to commit to going to work out at the Y every morning and get some work done while she's down for a nap. I feel productive! Even her meal schedule is helping out. It has caused me to be very conscious about what I eat since I need to make sure she gets a balanced meal.

The schedule has also done a fair job of preventing me from shopping. Gasp! I've never really been a big shopper, but when I first left my job to stay home with Avery, I found myself aimlessly wandering Target or the mall at least twice a week. Now, I don't allow enough time between scheduled naps, meals, or learning time to make shopping worth the trip. I have properly overscheduled myself.

Ah, she's rousing. Need to get L'il Bit out of bed. Have a great day!

Resolution

Hello fellow blogger buds! It has been a while since my last post. I hope you all are actually still at least checking regularly to see if I'm still alive.

Our little family is spending the New Year holiday at my parents' house in Hickory, North Carolina. Avery has had a ball exploring their new house. Since she won't crawl, she either has to scoot (which is much faster on the hardwood floors here) or walk with the assistance of a cooler, cardboard box, riding toy, or any other object not nailed to the floor.

Chad and I went to my friend Carl's house last night to ring in the new year. I saw several high school friends there and remembered why it was a good idea that I move to Nashville to go to Lipscomb. We left around 12:30 and decided that the blinding rain was a much bigger threat than the drunk drivers my parents warned us about.

Avery actually slept in until 8:30 this morning! Amazing! We took our time getting up, but finally dressed and went to pick up the U-Haul trailer we had reserved. We're bringing home an oak filing cabinet, entertainment center, and piano. I'm most excited about the piano. It's the one I've been playing since childhood. My parents got it from Steppenwolf's studio when I was really little. It'll be a fun heirloom. (When my parents came to visit a couple of weeks ago, they brought the little toy piano I played on as a baby and Avery took to it like a duck to water. Adorable! I hope she loves this piano, too.)

Mom is at the grocery store right now (again. She goes every day. I can't even imagine attempting that with Avery in tow.), so as soon as she returns, we're going to grab lunch and hit the mall. Go ahead. Kill me now. I dread the mall, but we need to make a few returns and exchanges.

No camera cord with us this weekend, so no photos to post. I'll really do my best to get some new ones on here this week.

I resolve this year to blog more regularly and actually download my photos. Hold me to it. Happy New Year!

Shameless Plug

Alrighty then. It's been ages since I've been able to sit down at this computer for a little bloggin'. Missed you all. So much has happened since I posted last. I finally uploaded the pictures from our digital camera. (By the way, the battery was dead on it. It wasn't broken. That's a relief.) However, the pictures were uploaded to Chad's laptop because the desktop computer in our house is older than the hills and can't handle the photos. One of these days I'll be able to post pictures again. For those of you who might want to see Avery's 9-month session, click on the Jennifer Photography link to your right. From there, click on the Information Tab and then click on the Slideshows link. It will pop up in a separate window. The password is Troup. You can see some sweet and funny Christmas shots there, too.

Rehearsals are going well for The Sanders Family Christmas. We're reprising our roles from 2 years ago. We got such a great response from that show that we decided to do it again. The original 7 cast members are playing the same parts. We're thrilled to have a roomier stage this year, too. A guy named Travis is doing a fantastic job with set construction. We've added so many new fun elements to the show. I can't wait. So here's my shameless plug . . . . Come see the Sanders Family Christmas at Otter Creek (409 Franklin Road, Brentwood) on December 15, 16 or 17 at 7 p.m. It's FREE, but seating is first come, first served. A collection will be taken up for the Living Water Ministry. Tell a friend.

Doing the show has completely gotten me in the Christmas spirit this year. Chad and I got a real tree and even put lights up outside! I finally gave in and tuned in to 92.9 fm which turns to 100% Christmas music after Thanksgiving. At first, I was agitated because I wasn't ready for Christmas music in November and I'm a dork and like light rock. But I made the switch.

It even snowed here today! It was beautiful. Of course, it didn't stick, but Avery loved watching it out the window. I love that it actually feels like Christmas, but our family can't seem to shake a nagging cold. Advice on trusty home remedies would be much-appreciated.

Wow. I'm proud of myself. I posted! Now let's just hope you all hear from me again before the new year!

Sparkly band-aids and the Tide testimonial

I took Avery last week for her 9-month check-up at Dr. Morel's office. I always choose the early morning appointments in hopes of avoiding all the sick children who might pass along their respective illnesses to my susceptible infant. This particular morning, I knew we were going to have shots and a flu vaccination, but they also took a little blood from Avery's toe to check her levels after having a UTI a few weeks ago.

I expected tears. She doesn't exactly trust the nurses after her 4-hour visit due to the UTI last time. Nevertheless, we survived. After pricking her toe, they put on a sparkly band-aid. Bad idea. She was mesmerized and immediately tried to put her feet in her mouth. She tugged and pulled at the band-aid and caused her toe to start bleeding again and the blood ended up all over my favorite sweater and jeans.

The nurse gave me an alcohol swab, so I worked at the spots for a while to no avail. And then I remembered a little gift from Becca -- a Tide To Go pen! I hadn't used it before, but it took the stain right out. The day was saved! Well, maybe that's a bit drastic, but at least my sweater survived.

Two by two

We have teeth! Avery's two bottom front teeth arrived today. I had a sneaking suspicion that they were coming due to her incessant gnawing lately. She's been "biting" at the most inopportune times and it's quite uncomfortable for me! She hasn't been droowling or fussing. She seems fairly comfortable, so we might actually survive this phase unscathed.

We've had a very busy last few days. After a weekend trip to North Carolina to visit my family, we dropped Chad off in Raleigh to meet some of his co-workers for a week-long audit in Danville, Virginia -- again (it seems like he has been there a lot lately.) So Avery and I were home alone most of the week. We managed to get nothing done around the house, too.

We went to a Halloween party at the Miller farm last night and have a dinner date with the Daniels at Don and Mary Stanford's house tonight. Big weekend. I can't post pictures yet because we left the camera cord at my parents' house and the camera battery is dead. Maybe I'll get some video on here soon. More later . . .

Guilty

Okay, I know. It's been ages since I've posted. Believe it or not, my life is a bit hectic right now. One would think that my time would be freed up after quitting my job, but it has gotten nuttier. For one thing, my laptop -- my lifeline to the world -- had to be turned in when I left Nelson, so I have to wait until Chad is home before I can get online. Another toughie is that Avery has become a bit clingy and doesn't like me out of her site.

Perhaps the biggest challenge is that I've still been going into the office a couple of days a week for 2 or 3 hours at a time to help train my replacement. That's not the hard part. Coming up with childcare is incredibly difficult. There's this emotion that most mothers are overcome with and it's called GUILT. I feel guilty for asking a friend to keep Avery more than once -- especially if I've never kept their children (which I'm totally willing to do, by the way). But why is it that moms are tormented with this feeling for a major portion of their waking hours?

I'm determined to create a mom network to help women find others who could trade out on childcare. We would be much more productive members of society. If we didn't have to FREAK OUT every time we needed to get a sitter and worry about paying someone an absurd amount of money to simply be in the same room with a sleeping child, we could actually get a few things done (sans stomach ulcer.)

So who's with me? I'd like to regularly go to Kirkpatrick Elementary to volunteer in Mrs. Jones' kindergarten class. Does someone want to take on a classroom, too, at an alternate time while I keep your kid(s)? A regular date to grocery shop? How about getting your nails done? Maybe a regular volunteer position? And even better -- a nap? I'd love to hear comments. Maybe you have a better idea.

I know blogs are usually meant for an outlet for random ramblings, but I'm serious here. At the risk of turning my living room into a nursery, I'm offering my childcare services. It could actually be pretty rewarding to see some of you rested and refreshed from a couple of hours of freedom. Of course, don't make me feel guilty for asking the same of you once in a while. Who's in? The floor is open . . .

CPA - Hooray!

Chad called this afternoon from Palestine, Texas, where he has been for the last four days. He said, "Guess who you're talking to?" I got REALLY excited because I knew what it meant. He got his CPA scores back and passed the last two sections!!!!! Can you tell I'm excited by all the exclamation marks? Two years of hard work on his part have finally paid off. Chad has been so dedicated and disciplined as he has studied. We get our lives back! Thank you for your prayers and encouragement.

Avery and I had a lazy evening in front of the television. Thursday night prime time television is my favorite. It used to be "Friends," but now it's "My Name is Earl," "The Office," "Grey's Anatomy" and "ER." The top news stories online were about the difficult choices viewers were going to have to make as they decided which of the great shows they'd have to miss. Top-notch programs went head to head battling it out for the top spot. My remote control finger is tired.

I need to post pictures. A lot has happened since I blogged last -- Avery's first Braves game, Becca & Nathan's new baby Fenley, and Brax's birthday party -- so I need to upload photos. Maybe next time . . . Stay tuned.

Long weekend

This weekend actually felt like a long weekend! No studying, no traveling, no working! Hooray! My parents came into town and we had a ball. Nothing fancy -- just being together.

I love the Labor Day weekend for some reason. We always make Chicken Stew. It's nothing special, but it's part of our family tradition inspired by an old Mars Hill fundraiser. We made a HUGE pot of it, so quite a bit of it ended up in the freezer to be eaten later. Yum.

Labor day has a different meaning to me now, though. I think of actual labor. We had lunch with college girlfriends on Saturday and I got to talk about the day Avery was born. It was really tough and I'm sure it was incredibly painful, but I don't remember that part. I only remember seeing that sweet angel being placed in my arms and seeing the look of pure joy and amazement on Chad's face. Priceless.

We're making sure to appreciate every moment we can with Avery. The last 7 months have flown by already, so we're trying to be intentional about not missing anything. I'll catch myself just staring at her sometimes, being amazed at how she's learning how her body works. She uses her hands so well and never stops moving her feet. Even pooping is cute!

I'll be sure to post pictures next time. So sorry that it's been a while. We thought we broke the camera, but it's up and running again, so we're playing catch-up. Thanks for checking in on us!

It's getting hot in here . . .

A couple of weeks ago, it started getting warmer in our house. Chad checked all the vents and . . . nothing. He went outside to peek at the A/C unit and the pipe was frozen. It had been working too hard. You see, we have a slow, small coolant leak. We knew we had it last year, but we were told that simply refilling the coolant each year would solve the problem, at least temporarily.

So we called out a guy to do that again for us this year. It seemed to work for a while, but Wednesday after work, I came home and commented that I thought it was getting warmer again. Chad didn't notice, so I chocked it up to having just climbed the stairs. (I'm still out of shape.) After church however, it was definitely warmer inside than it was out. Chad again checked the outside unit. It wasn't frozen this time, so we knew we had a problem. At least it was a cool night, so we slept with the windows open and it felt fantastic.

He came home from work early to meet the A/C guy who determined that our compressor was "out" and that we could replace it for $1,500. Kill me. However, we still had the problem of the coolant leak and didn't know where it was. He fooled around with the system for a while longer and found TWO leaks. Great. That would cost us $1,000 -- every year!

So this afternoon, Donelson Air Conditioning will be replacing our ENTIRE SYSTEM. Perfect timing just as I've resigned from my job and we're down to one income.

I'm in my last few days at Thomas Nelson. I agreed to stay on (working from home) for another month to help with transitions, though. There are pros and cons. The pros are that I'll get to be with Avery all day, I'll have WAY fewer meetings to attend, I'll have no office distractions (printer noise, foot traffic, employee gossip time) and I'll keep getting a paycheck for a little longer. The cons are that I'll be working AND have Avery (which might be quite the load) and I'm only getting paid for part-time work. No matter what I'm getting paid for, I tend to put way too much effort into it. It's a good thing for my employer, but it's a bad thing for my sanity.

I love my company. I love my job. I'm not sure how this is going to work out, but I'm excited about trying something new. This is a busy time of year for us with major books releasing this fall. I'm sure you'll hear me talking about them. So help me afford my new air conditioner. BUY A BOOK.

My parents are coming into town this weekend and I'm thrilled. Of course, I hope the air is running by the time they get here! I've been trying to tell Avery that they're coming. She probably has no idea what I'm saying, but we have a great time squealing in high pitched voices at each other.

She is the most fun baby. She's always in a good mood and thinks everything is funny. I'm really seeing the "Laura Posey nose" that she's making. I did it when I was a baby and she has picked up the same habit. It's adorable. She has also finally figured out that her Jumperoo is for bouncing, so now she's quite the jumper. Of course, because of that, she thinks that everything she sits in is going to bounce. So fun.

Jennifer took Avery's 6-month pictures last month, so I'm finally adding a photo to my blog. I knew Jennifer was a good photographer, but she catches all the best shots. If you get the chance to use her, please do. Jennifer, I hope you don't mind that I'm posting one of my proofs! Enjoy!

Summer's not over

I expected traffic to be worse than it has been. With kids back in school and big yellow buses flanking every corner, I've prepared for the worst. My daily route includes two school zones. Luckily, I'm through one before the lights start flashing. (The middle school starts late!)

Tusculum Elementary, however, enforces the 15 mph speed limit with two crossing guards -- one at the 4-way stop at McMurray and Whispering Hills and the other at the light at Nolensville Road. I like the lady at the 4-way stop. She is very friendly and professional. Last year, I felt much differently about the lady at Nolensville Road. Inevitably, every morning she'd stop traffic at the light I was sitting at so kids could cross the street. I don't mind that they have to cross the street. Not a problem. However, it drove me nuts that she only stopped traffic for the folks who were trying to turn left from McMurray onto Nolensville Road. One morning, I had to sit through 6 green lights before finally giving up, turning right and making a U-turn to get to work. I don't have time for that. Thankfully, we have a new crossing guard this year. Whoo hoo!!!!! She already seems to be better. She gets people across the street, but I haven't had to wait on anyone yet.

This past weekend, in talking with Chad's family, a discussion came up about the school year schedule. They all seem to be in favor of kids starting as late as possible. Chad's aunt Elaine even went so far as to suggest that kids should start after Labor Day. Whoa! That didn't seem like such a good idea to me -- until now. I realize that we're already thinking that the summer is over since the kids have gone back to school. Summer's not over!!!!

Technically, summer will be sticking with us until September 20-something, but department stores already have out their fall clothes (Who wants to wear sweaters in 90 degree weather??), football teams are taking the field, and the evenings are getting milder. Forget about all this end-of-summer mumbo jumbo. We need to enjoy it! Just 'cause the kids are back in school doesn't mean we shouldn't bask in the glorious days of summer.

May I suggest a few things? Make lemonade. Play in the sprinkler. Eat some watermelon. Take a dip in the pool (at least smell the chlorine!). Do all the things that are so characteristic of summer. Because it's not over yet!