Where, oh where...

...did 2009 go??????? I am just in amazement that tomorrow will officially be 2010! I don't even know how that can be. I mean I know after Christmas comes New Year's, but even Christmas seemed to come so fast this year.

Kevin and I were coming to work today and it dawned on me that tomorrow will officially be the beginning of Sophie's birth year!!! Oh my! If the years with her go by as fast as 2009, I will blink and she will be a grown woman. I suppose I am blessed to have realized this sooner rather than later, for I will cherish each second, minute, day and year of her life with every ounce of my being.

It is so strange to know that only 5 months ago we learned the news that we were going to be PARENTS!!! It was a moment that forever changed the rest of our lives. In one single second, my life was no longer about me ~ it was solely about the child growing inside of me. In that moment, I became a mother. Kevin became a father. We became parents. The Lord chose US to raise this precious child! WOW!!! Even writing this it brings tears to my eyes for I know we are so very blessed.

It has certainly been a year of adventures ~ we saw the Grand Canyon, took a fantastic vacation with our best friends, survived Annie's surgery and subsequent recovery, welcomed new babies, spent quality time with family and friends, celebrated milestone birthdays and joyous holidays!

I will cherish this year as I have all the ones prior ~ and tonight, I will say hello to a brand new year which is sure to be even more life-changing and adventured filled than all those which have now become part of our history.

To all those whom we have been blessed with throughout our lives, we love you each dearly and look forward to many more years of love, laughter and memories!

My Prayer for You Sweet One!

Back in October (10/9/09), I posted an entry titled "My Current Favorite." I am sure you are wondering why I am even bothering to tell you this, but I am your Mom so you have to oblige me in my explanation!

That entry was for you my dear Sophie. At the time, I had not made the official "Yes, we are" post (10/23/09) and had certainly not posted any of my other random thoughts to you ~ you were saved in draft form until that ever so important announcement :)

Back to the point...

When I heard that particular song, it was my prayer to you and it still is. For the past two nights, Mommy and Daddy have heard that song on our trek home and every time, I say, "here's my song to you Sophie Grace". And while I could repost the link, I have decided to put my prayer for you into written words. (I fear that by the time you are actually able to read this, You Tube will be a thing of the past ~ you know technology and all!)

So here it is baby girl ~ from my heart to yours.

From "The Words I Would Say" by The Sidewalk Prophets:

Be strong in the Lord and,

Never give up hope,

You're going to do great things,

I already know,

God's got His hand on you so,

Don't live life in fear,

Forgive and forget,

But don't forget why you're here,

Take your time and pray,

Thank God for each day,

His love will find a way,

These are the words I would say.

I love you Baby Girl ~ Forever and Always,

Mommy

23 Weeks :)

Our dear sweet Sophie is growing bigger and thus, so is Mommy's belly! Kevin and I are so, so in love with her. I have no idea how, but I know when she gets here we will love her even more! She is such a blessing to our lives and we don't take one day of this pregnancy for granted.

We love you more than life Sophie Grace! Keep baking in there :)

Christmas

I love Christmas...but this year, I am glad the festivities have ended! It was a whirlwind of a holiday season trying to make the rounds and get all the family time distributed.

Despite the juggling act, and might I say, we did one heck of a juggling routine, Christmas was fun and the kids all seemed to have a wonderful time with their new Santa goodies! Even our sweet Sophie Grace racked up! Who knew one could get so many presents prior to exiting the womb?! We love everything though and can't wait to get her nursery setup with her new goodies!!!

There are way too many pictures to post but I wanted to share a couple of my very favorites! Hope you all had a very blessed and happy holiday!

Our Family!

Sophie's First Kiss :)

A Prediction of Approximately 3 Years from Now! Kevin and our niece Alice Kate (who looks very much like me at that age!).

22 Weeks (+ George)

Here is the 22 week baby bump picture! George was wanting Mommy time :)

21 Weeks...

Here is the less exciting post for today :) The baby bump at 21 weeks!

What You've All Been Waiting For...

So, I know you all just love my weekly updates of the growing belly, and I will post the 21 week picture later this evening. Kevin's family is in town and the camera is in their room so I can't very well wake them up just to get one picture :) Ok, well I could do that, but I think I would then earn the worst sister-in-law in the world award!!! So I'll refrain :)

Anyway, in order to give you something even more exciting on this rainy Thursday. Drum roll please...

I am finally giving you a formal introduction to Sophia (Sophie) Grace Taliaferro!!!

In the Beginning...

At 18 Weeks...

Close-Up of Face...

Hello World :)

It's a Girl!!!

Future Rockette

I have come to the conclusion over the course of today that you my dear Sophie fully intend to be a Rockette when you are older! You little girl are quite a Jumping Bean and you know what, KICK ALL YOU WANT!!!

I love every bump, every kick, every turn :) I even love when you use my bladder as your own personal trampoline! (Though for the sake of being honest with you, it is a BIT uncomfortable!)

I told Daddy today that you are celebrating your 21 week gestational age birthday! What a birthday name, huh? He is so jealous that I can feel you so much more than he can. But if only you could see the way his eyes light up every time he feels you kick ~ it is truly priceless! He is completely in love with you and is already calling you his little princess. My sweet girl, you are in for one spoiled life as a Daddy's girl :)

Keep baking and playing in there! You are the light of our lives and we could spend all day just waiting for you to move!!!

All our love,

Mommy & Daddy

Baby Likes to Eat!

Not that I didn't always love eating, but it is now my favorite event of the day! It seems that you my dear Sophie, love to eat too! I am sitting at my desk feeling you kick as I type this entry and it is truly the most wonderful experience EVER! Well, at least for right now...your birthday will certainly beat the kicking, but for now...

Kick away sweet girl! Mommy loves you!!!

20 Weeks...

Well, technically 20 weeks and 1 day but I wasn't feeling well yesterday, so this will have to do :)

Snow in Houston (12/4/09)!

Two years in a row ~ who would have thought! The snow was absolutely beautiful (and miserable to be out in but hey, maybe I was just being a scrooge!) I thoroughly enjoyed watching it through the window while laying by the fire :) Doesn't get much better than that!

19 Weeks!!!!!

I cannot believe we are almost halfway through this pregnancy! That to me is absolutely crazy!!! I love you more than life sweet girl! Keep baking :)

Thanksgiving is Just So Exhausting!

The verdict is...

I am like a kid...

on Christmas morning!!!!!!!!

Five more hours, give or take a little, until I see you!!!!!! Mommy has two requests, one much more important so please pay very close attention...

1) Be healthy, happy and growing into our amazing son/daughter (this is clearly the most important).

and

2) Please, please cooperate so that I can refer to you as he or she as opposed to Bean and "it".

But hey, if I get number one, I will pass on number two if necessary ~ but obviously, I'd rather not!

I love you Bean Pole! You are by far the thing I am most grateful for this Thanksgiving!

All my love,

Mommy

P.S. Hopefully, this is the last time I have a post referring to you as a legume!

18 Weeks...

Well the lighting is terrible, but I had to leave for work so this is the best it was going to get this morning...

ONLY ONE MORE DAY UNTIL THE BIG ULTRASOUND!

Finally...

It is THE week! Two more days to go and we get to see you Bean Pole!

I love, love our heart rate monitor! We got it in last Wednesday and I used it before Daddy got home since he was on pick-up duty for Annie, so he asked me to do it Thursday night so he could hear as well. It's so fun to see his face light up when he hears your heartbeat! I have a fantastic husband who is going to be one amazing father ~ to be so blessed is a wonderful thing!

Since Monday's are my least favorite day, I started my day off this morning by listening to you ~ I love how you flip around in there. It's fun to listen to your heartbeat and then imagine you moving around getting resituated! You truly made my day :)

I love you Bean Pole!

See you soon,
Mommy

God Bless the 12th Man

"From the outside looking in, you can never understand it. From the inside looking out, you can never explain it."

We will always remember 11/18/1999...you will not be forgotten and will live on in our hearts forever. God Bless the 12th Man!

Maybe the Baby?

So...I cannot be certain, but I THINK I felt the baby!

I hesitate to get too excited seeing as how during pregnancy your belly does any number of things on a given day. I thought I felt something this weekend and my sweet, dear husband said, "or, it could just be gas." All I could do was laugh and agree :) Not much else to say to that!

But on the way to work today, I felt the same thing, so maybe, it really is our little jumping bean?! I guess time will tell :)

On that note Bean Pole, if it was you..."Hi Baby! Mommy loves you!"

And, if it wasn't, "Hi Baby! Mommy loves you, but please kick or wiggle a little harder next time so I know for sure it is you!"

Eight more days until we see you on the ultrasound!

All my love,
Mommy

17 Weeks...

Due to my husband's work schedule (see prior belly picture post), I have resorted to the typical internet belly pic :(

I had a goal of taking each belly picture in front of the fireplace, but I give up! It's just too hard to set up the camera and get a decent shot, so...this is the best it's going to get.

Baby Update...

Well, only 9 1/2 more days! I cannot wait to see you at our next ultrasound! Even though Daddy and I are super-duper curious (and yes, your lame Mommy just used the word "super-duper) to know if you are a boy or girl, more than anything we just want to know that you are healthy and happy in Mommy's tummy.

I finally broke down and ordered a fetal heart rate monitor this morning so that Mommy and Daddy can check up on you every now and then. I figure you might as well go ahead and get used to being checked up on! You have many more years of that ahead of you my sweet boy or girl! All out of love ~ I promise it is not to make your life miserable :)

Anyway, just wanted to stop in and update you on what's going on outside of your little world. Until next time sweet baby!

All my love,
Mommy

Happy Veteran's Day

"I am an American, fighting in the forces which guard my country and our way of life. I am prepared to give my life in their defense."
~ Article I of the Code of Conduct for the Armed Forces of the United States

I cannot express my gratitude for each and every veteran ~ past, present and future ~ who have and will give selflessly in the fight for our country and our rights. It is those men and women who sacrifice more than we can imagine. Every day they fight for us knowing that this may be their last and willingly take that risk. They give up the opportunities to watch children grow up, to be at birthday parties and celebrate holidays with family and friends, to attend soccer games and school plays. And their families stay here offering support, fighting right along with them; for that, I consider each of you my heroes as well.

In honor of those who have fallen recently...your families will continue to be in my prayers and I am forever grateful to you for all you have given, for you have given the ultimate sacrifice.

Fort Hood:
Michael Grant Cahill, 62
Pft. Francheska Velez, 21
Pfc. Aaron Thomas Nemelka, 19
Pfc. Michael Pearson, 21
Pfc. Kham S. Xiong, 23
Spc. Frederick Greene, 29
Spc. Jason Dean Hunt, 22
Sgt. Amy Krueger, 29
Staff Sgt. Justin M. Decrow, 32
Maj. L. Eduardo Caraveo, 52
Lt. Col. Juanita Warman, 55
Capt. John Gaffaney, 56
Capt. Russell Seager, 51

Fort Lewis:
Pfc. Christopher I. Walz, 25
Spc. Jared D. Stanker, 22
Sgt. Fernando Delarosa, 24
Sgt. Dale R. Griffin, 29
Sgt. Issac B. Jackson, 27
Sgt. Patrick O. Williamson, 24
Staff Sgt. Luis M. Gonzalez, 27

And the Belly Grows :)

14 Weeks - Second trimester and feeling SOOOO much better! Go Bean Go!

15 Weeks - Go Bean Go is now Grow Bean Grow!

16 Weeks - My husband has been leaving for work about the same time as I'm rolling out of bed, so I apologize for the terrible picture! I think we are going to have to make a rule that he can't leave early on Tuesday mornings ~ "HELLO" That's belly picture day!!!! (And believe me, you DO NOT want a picture of me at 6:30 in the morning. That would be the last belly pic you'd ever be interested in!)

Spreading the Joy + Twister Time!

This past weekend I headed to Newton for a funeral :( but enough of the sad news.

Before the funeral I met the Boulware clan for lunch and let the girls in on the...ssssssshhhhh...baby secret! Ashton was so cute ~ I could have sworn she was going to pop with the news :) Once I finally told her that everyone else knew and she didn't really have to keep the secret, after one HUGE exhaled breath and the oh so frequently asked question..."Is it a girl or a boy?" she was off to the gumball machines :) Oh the attention span of a 7 year-old! I'm not sure Kylie was as thrilled but what do you do??? That's a 10 year-old for you! I'm hoping she's more excited once the little one is actually here :) FYI ~ I did not play favorites and tell Ashton first. Kylie wasn't interested in the secret...so it's totally NOT my fault she was the last to know!

After the funeral Mom and I headed to Lumberton to watch The Twisters! I haven't seen Kylie play all year so I was excited to see how she had improved from last year. They lost but at least I was there doing my auntly (is that even a word?) duties. For the record, I do not have the first clue about soccer...my understanding can be summed up into two things: 1) get the ball in the goal and 2) don't touch the ball with your hands. Nonetheless, it was exciting to watch and I was very proud that her team didn't give up. Great Job Twisters!

That was my weekend in a nutshell! Happy to be home with my hubby and furbabies! More belly pics coming soon :)

Your Weirdo Sister...

Bean -

Ok, so early this morning your sister woke me up LICKING MY BELLY!!!!!!!! Not a pleasant way to wake up, but how could I be mad?! She then fell asleep with her head on my tummy :) No way I can be mad after that!

I guess she just wanted to say hi and she loves you!

So from Sissy, "Hi Bean! I love you!"

Love,
Mommy & Sissy

Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!

"Even though the sound of it is something quite atrocious; If you say it loud enough you'll always sound precocious; Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious!"

Is it stuck in your head yet?!

In case you couldn't tell from the title, we saw Mary Poppins yesterday and loved it! I could have done without the lady behind us tapping her feet and I'm sure James would have preferred the little boy next to him wasn't constantly sneezing and coughing, but hey what do you do?! Overall we had a great time!

The set and special effects were amazing! If you have a chance to see it, GO! I promise you won't be disappointed. While we weren't allowed to take pictures during the performances, here are a few taken during intermission.

Side Note ~ Do you think it would be too soon to ask my husband to take me to the Sound of Music in December???

Gig 'Em Aggies!

How about them Ags?!!!

Ok honestly, I didn't expect to beat Texas Tech (call me a 2%er or doubtful or whatever, but seriously, who would have thought?)!!!

I am so proud of them! Good job boys!

Also, the Texans and Cowboys won today ~ so overall a very good football weekend!!!

To Bean...

We had our monthly appointment yesterday and everything is perfect! I always get nervous the day of the appointment ~ I have no idea why...(worrywart)...

This was the very first time that Daddy and I got to hear your heartbeat! It was truly the most amazing experience ~ I now know why people buy the at home Doppler's to hear their baby's heartbeat. I could listen to that sound 24 hours a day and never get bored!

Since we are out of the first trimester (YEA), I am finally breathing a little easier. I have only gained 3 lbs, so right on target for the first trimester. I am sure that number will certainly be larger very soon as you continue to grow :)

We were able to schedule our anatomy scan for November 25th at 11:10!!!!!!!! I cannot wait ~ I am so anxious to know if you are a he or a she! I would really love to stop referring to you as It...though some days you are a he and others you are a she. I say boy, Daddy says girl ~ at least one of is right! He has almost convinced me he could be right, but I have to stick to boy just because I want you to have equal representation :)

Your heartrate has slowed from 187 beats to 160 beats. Apparently anywhere from 140 - 160 is perfectly normal at this stage. Since there was no ultrasound, I have no idea how big you are, though according to Baby Center you should be approximately 3 inches by now...much bigger than the original 8 centimeters you were at the first ultrasound!

After our appointment, a friend of mine (you will meet Lynna soon enough and will love her) went with me to a Just Between Friends sale in Sugar Land to look for some baby stuff. I think we got good deals and I was thrilled to save some money! Our very first baby purchases for you...the first of many, many more!

I know April will be here before I can blink, but I am so, so excited to meet you precious baby! Mommy and Daddy (and brother and sister) love you very much!

Yes, we are...

EXPECTING!

Yes, we are expecting our very first little angel! This should explain all the other posts that will suddenly pop up in the next day or so :) I have been writing to our sweet baby over the last couple of months and saving them to the blog. Eventually I will create a book from the blogs I have posted so that later on in life, our little one can have a record of his/her life in the womb. Just what he/she has always wanted, I'm sure :) Until then, you can have intimate glimpses of my thoughts to our baby! In case you want to read all my random musings to my unborn child, there are 4 new posts in August, 1 in September (hey, I was busy!) and a couple this month...should keep you reading for a while if you're super bored!

We are happy to share our news with all of you, though I think most of you already know at this point!

Here are the belly pics...as a discaimer...Kevin wasn't around to take the second two pictures, so you'll just to forgive the quality :)

In the Beginning...

12 Weeks....

13 Weeks...

Week in Review...

Yes, it has been over a week since I've posted to the blog! So sue me...

Last Friday, Kevin and I attended an Aeros hockey game with some of his co-workers. I have never been to a hockey game and wasn't sure how I was going to feel about it. Surprisingly, I really enjoyed it! I wish the break in between quarters wasn't so long (short attention span and all), but otherwise it was an entertaining fast-paced game.

Houston Aeros vs. San Antonio Rampage (and yes, we did win!)

This past weekend we didn't do a whole lot...don't you love weekends like that?! I did clean up the house and if it could talk, it would thank me!

Hmmm....I know that isn't much...but hey, it was a boring week! At least you got pictures :)

Houston Dog Blog!

Miss Annie has made the big time :) Houston Dog Blog did an interview with Canine Health Institute and it has now been posted to their website. The star??? Miss Annie!

I am so proud of her and the progress she has made! She will officially finish with rehab sessions next month :) I knew this time would come...I thought I would be thrilled and while I am because of her progress (and of course the savings to come!), I am also realizing this is closing a chapter of our lives. We have grown to love the specialists there and count them as our second family ~ we would not be where we are today without their help and are forever indebted to them for what they have done for our angel!

I love you Miss Annie and you are a true witness to what God can do!

http://www.houstondogblog.com/

Happy Birthday Baby!

We made it! You are officially 12 weeks old!!! What on Earth??? I cannot believe that you are already 12 weeks old and that I am ALMOST to the second trimester (since the first trimester is really 13 weeks long). Seriously I had no idea about this until you came along, but hey...what's one more week :)

Mommy and Daddy love you sweet angel! Keep growing and stay healthy!

Ahhhhhhhh...

IT'S COOL OUTSIDE!!! Obviously, we can't go as far as need a jacket, sit by the fire kind of cool, but hey, it's Texas! I will take what I can get!!!

I love you...

Hi Baby...it has been so long since I have written to you the words of my heart...

It is so amazing to me the amount of love that continues to grow within me. I would give my life for you without a seconds hesitation. The Lord has blessed me with your life and it a true joy to be your mother. It is hard to believe you are almost 12 weeks old...and I thought this whole pregnancy thing would take FOREVER! I have started to picture you as you grow older in there. I wonder about what you look like now, what you will look like tomorrow, next month, and on and on.

There are simply no words to explain to you how wonderful you are. Please know I am always here for you. I pray for you, for your happiness, for your dreams...

I love you sweet baby.

Always and Forever,
Mommy

My Current Favorite...

A Month!!!!!!!!!!

WOW, has it seriously been almost a FULL MONTH since I updated the blog??? I can't believe how quickly time has passed!!! Of course, it is busy season + quarter close... I suppose I will use that as my excuse for being absent for so long. Thankfully, October 15th is ALMOST here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Overall life has been good for us these past few weeks. Kevin and I took a couple of days vacation and visited Dad and Gail in Panama City Beach, Florida. Our flights were miserable, delayed, and miserable (did I mention that already?)! I officially spent my first full night in an airport...I will pass on EVER doing that again. Even knowing all of that, I wouldn't have traded a minute of our visit, though I would have DEFINITELY NOT chosen Atlanta as our connecting airport!

We had a wonderful time visiting ~ we are so blessed to have such a loving family! Our visits with them are always relaxing and fun, and to be in such a beautiful place was just an added benefit. Want to know something just amazing ~ the water is BLUE and the sand is WHITE! No offense Galveston, but...oh for our water to be so blue... We ate wonderful seafood, searched for and found sanddollars, rented a pontoon boat on Sunday to go to Shell Island, and here comes the best part...WE SAW DOLPHINS!!!!!!!!!!!! Yes, I do have an obsession but I just think they are some of the most beautiful and wonderful animals the Lord ever made!

I've posted a few pictures below for your enjoyment :)

Other than that, we haven't been up to much...just work...how exciting, right?! I promise to right more often now that the end of state tax returns is in sight! Hope you all have a wonderful day!

We Will Never Forget

It has been 8 years since the tragedy of September 11, 2001 ~ a day that is forever in our memories and that has altered the history of the United States in ways that are simply unexplainable.

It is my prayer today, that the Lord will continue to surround those who lost loved ones on that day, those who have so graciously given the ultimate in the call of duty, and those who have dedicated their lives to protecting our great country.

It is a great honor to be a citizen of the United States and one that should not be taken lightly. We will never forget!

Thank you...

Thank you to all the men and women who volunteer to keep our country safe! While thank you is not nearly enough, please know, your work does not go unnoticed. For those who have given the ultimate, we are so blessed to be a part of honoring you and your families this holiday season.

A Perfect Expression...

"Making the decision to have a child - it's momentous. It is to decide forever to have your heart go walking outside your body."
~Elizabeth Stone

4 More Days & Counting...

Hi Baby! I hope all is going well in there. Mommy still prays for you every day! I can't wait to see you for the first time, but I know I probably won't get to at our appointment on Friday :( This makes me sad because I want to see you and your little heartbeat SOOOO badly. The waiting is excruciating!

The Lord is in control though and there is nothing more I can do to keep you safe than give you over to the Lord. He is the greatest source of shelter and comfort there is and so I am trusting you to Him.

I love you Sweet Pea! Only 260 some odd days to go! It seems so far away but I know you will be here before we know it! We can't wait :)

Until tomorrow, Precious Pea, stay safe and happy in there! We love you more than you will ever know!!!!

Baby Entry 3...

Good Morning Bean! Yes, it isn't creative...so sue us! It's just what has seemed to stick when we talk about you or to you so...

Last night was a rough night for Mommy! The things you do to my body are not always so very pleasant and sometimes very scary, seeing as how we've never done this before! But this morning, you made your presence known, so Good Morning My Sweet Angel! I will take all the morning sickness in the world, just to know you are ok in there.

Nana and Mimi both received their packages yesterday and are thrilled to have you join our family! They love you already :)

I have to get ready for work now :( I'd (well, perhaps, WE) would rather stay home and sleep, but that isn't really an option :(

Until later Sweet Baby...WE LOVE YOU!

Baby Entry 3 Continued...

It has been 4 days since we found out about you and in one week from today we will have our very first appointment with the OB-GYN. Oh how I am praying for the chance to see your little heart beating. I can't even imagine the wonder of such an experience! Plus, I know it will help to ease a lot of the anxiety I feel since we are so early in the pregnancy right now. You are our Dear Angel and I have come to love you SOOOO much!

I decided to have Sonic for lunch today but you politely declined ~ you'll like it in a few years I'm sure! If not, that's ok...it's not Daddy's favorite place either.

It's amazing the way my body is changing to make room for your growth! While not visible yet to the outside world, trust me, I am fully aware!

We are going to Galveston later on today and by the time we leave, Aunt Jaime and Uncle James will know they are going to have a wonderful little one to love as their own. They truly are fantastic people and I know they will be like second parents to you as you grow up. Cherish them Little One!

Well, that's it for Part 2 of Baby Entry 3! Enjoy staying warm in the oven (for a VERY long time ~ well not past the 40 week point preferably, but you get my point)! I love you so, so much and don't you ever forget it!

Ah...So Glad Friday Has Come!

I really have nothing to add to that...

Thank you Lord for this day (and especially for Saturdays and Sundays!).

Baby Entry 2...

Last night, Daddy and I had a discussion about what to call you until we know if you are a he or a she. Daddy suggested Pat! What in the world????? Why would we call you Pat?!!! You'll be grateful to know that I vetoed that :) This is why Mommy will always be better than Daddy! His next suggestion, given the above mentioned veto, was Sam. While better than Pat, it is not what I had in mind!

Sweet Pea, Angel, Bean, Little One...anything like that I was ok with :) For now though, I suppose you will have to remain nameless until we find something that suits you!

I can tell you are growing based on the changes I am feeling! The things you make my body do are SO BIG for such a TINY THING! I only wish that Daddy could experience even some of what it is like to have you growing within me. It is a bond that only comes from God and I am forever changed by having you in our lives. I love you so, so much Sweet One and I promise to be the best Mommy I can possibly be each and every day!

Today, you and I went to the post office and mailed off Mimi and Nana's books. I know they will be thrilled by you! Not as much as Mommy and Daddy, but thrilled nonetheless. Last night you and I bought Grandma Gail and Papa John a "Happy Grandparents Day" card. We will deliver that when we go to Florida, even though it will be a few days belated. Given the circumstances, I think we will all THREE be forgiven :)

It is so very hard to keep you from Aunt Jaime and Uncle James but you are definitely worthy of "in person" news! I know you will love them as much as we do. They are some of the most amazing people you will ever meet!!!

Ok Little One, that's your update from the outside world for now! Enjoy growing and stay safe! Mommy and Daddy LOVE you!

To Our Little Angel...

Yesterday, (Monday, August 24, 2009 at approximately 6:00pm), Mommy and Daddy found out that you would be the newest addition to our little family.

Oh, how I have prayed for you! I have prayed that God would love you and mold you into a perfect little angel as I know only He can. I have prayed that when the time was right that you would live in Mommy's tummy and grow into a healthy baby.

Over the past (almost) 24 hours, I have prayed that we would be the Mommy and Daddy that you need. That we will be able to love you the way a child from God should be loved, that I will do everything right so that you may be happy and healthy when you enter into this world 9 months from now, that we will raise you in a home that worships the Lord and that you will know the Lord's salvation and love from an early age. I prayed that all of your hopes and dreams will come true. I prayed that you would know we will always be here for you no matter what and will love you with a love that is unconditional. I have prayed almost nonstop...thanking the Lord for you and your precious life! You are the greatest blessing we could ever have asked for! I love you so much already and I know that will only grow each and every day. Thank you for the honor and privilige of being your Mommy.

As your Mommy, I suspected you have been there for a couple of weeks. I actually noted the date on my calendar when I suddenly felt the urge to pray for you...August 6, 2009. While I can't guarantee that is the specific date of your "creation", I have to say that I truly felt the Lord burdening my heart with the need to pray for you, to keep you safe and loved until you join us here in the outside world. What a true blessing from God to share some a wonderful moment in time with you and Him alone. Please know, I will pray for you daily for the rest of your life! You are my dear angel!

I bought your Daddy a card last night to announce your arrival. I also bought him a book, but frankly, that was probably more for me than for Daddy! Your Daddy loves you too and was so thrilled that you are on your way.

I also told Brother and Sister that they were going to be welcoming a new brother or sister into their lives. Yes, I know that they don't understand exactly but they will in time! As you grow, I know they will be some of the best friends that you will ever have. They will be loyal to you, protect you, and play with you...but most of all, they will love you!

Today I bought Mimi and Nana "Grandma's Brag Books". You and I will go mail these tomorrow so they too can pray for you and love you even now! Papa John and Grandma Gail will know later since we are going to visit soon! Your very first trip to Florida :)

That's all for now, Sweet Angel. I will continue to update often and one day I will make these blogs into a book so that you will have them forever. Anytime you need to know we love you, just look back on these words Sweet Baby and know that you were loved even before you joined us in this world! You are our Precious Gift and we will cherish you always!

Until tomorrow, Sweet Baby, stay safe in there and know you are loved!!! I love you!

Just an Update...

What a title I came up with! That definitely took some effort :)

Since I have neglected the blog lately I thought I would take a few minutes to write about what's been going on in the Taliaferro household.

This weekend was super busy! I took Friday off to take care of some errands that seemed to never get done and to finish up some last minute party planning before heading to Newton for the weekend.

Friday, Mom and I went to visitation for a cousin who passed away last week in a car accident. Mary, you will be dearly missed but I know you are happy to be with your son again! Enjoy your angel wings!!! We will see you again one day!!!

Saturday morning we went to the funeral and then headed to Wally-World for some last minute supplies. I had lunch and then took a nap! After my hour long nap, Mom and I went to pick up my sister's birthday cake, we wrapped gifts, blew up balloons, gave the kiddos baths, got ourselves dressed, and headed out (late I might add but after all that who can blame us)!

I think the party went well ~ I also think Amy asks too many questions and thus, highly suspected that something was going on...that's what she gets for being NOSY! Either way, I am glad she had a great time and thoroughly enjoyed turning the big 30!

Sunday, we threw a mini birthday party for Alice Kate! Even at 2 she would prefer the bags and tissue paper to what was inside of the boxes...until she got the SHOPPING CART! Who knew kids could love shopping carts as much as that little angel? I could literally see her thinking about throwing a right hook at Autumn when she tried to take it from her. Thankfully, Autumn let go before World War III could break out in Mimi's living room!

Kevin and I left soon afterwards to head home. I took yet ANOTHER nap on Sunday afternoon while my WONDERFUL husband picked up our house. Thank you Babe! I read and relaxed...that was about it.

Nothing to make you jump out of your seat, I know, but nonetheless now at least you know what has been going on with us this past week! Hope everyone has a fantastic day!!!

We're Off to See the Wizard...

the Wonderful Wizard of Oz!

Actually, we were just going to get the mail, but if that was the title, you wouldn't have been as interested :)

Kevin and I took the dogs on a walk to get the mail this afternoon and I videotaped it so everyone could see how impressive Miss Annie is these days. Even George got a little camera time :) I can't believe how far she has come ~ this video is almost THREE minutes long!!! Are you kidding me??? As any true Aggie would say, WHOOP! But also, on a more personal note and in response to the "wouldn't walk again, get her a wheelchair" prognosis ~ TAKE THAT A&M VET CLINIC!!!

Enjoy!

Big Enough

This song was playing this morning on my way to work after dropping Annie Mae off at rehab. I've heard this song a million times and have always loved it, but this morning it meant more to me than ever and I couldn't wipe the smile off my face!

When we picked up Annie from Texas A&M almost 4 months ago, I was completely prepared to buy her a wheelchair and learn to deal with a disabled dog. I gave God the glory for even allowing her to make it through surgery. Never in a million years did I expect to be where we are today...

Annie WALKED into rehab today!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It makes my eyes tear up just thinking about it. Don't box God in and He will give you more than you could ever dream of!!!!!!

Weekend in Words

Why do weekends have to be so short? Friday you are thrilled because you are about to start the weekend, Saturday is fabulous because you know you still have ONE more day, and Sunday you sulk because you have to go back to work the next day. I would absolutely vote for a 4-day weekend if ever provided the opportunity! I would vote for Monday's just because I hate Mondays...but then I guess I would have to hate Tuesdays...anyway that's enough random rambling =)

We had a busy weekend ~ fun-filled but busy! I picked up Kylie and Ashton from my sister on Friday evening and thankfully they were ready for bed by the time we got back! I am SO NOT a night owl!!!

Saturday morning the girls and I went and shopped at a few stores, had lunch at Pei Wei, went ice skating and then painted pottery. The girls whined a lot while ice skating and wanted to go after an hour...and then, when I asked them what their favorite activity was on the way home today the vote was unanimous...ICE SKATING! DO WHAT??? Are you kidding me? How is that possible amidst all the whining? Anyway, if I ever decide to take them to do that again, please remind me to go back to this particular post!

Pottery was a blast and I was very proud of them for taking their time and being patient. The first time we went a few months ago, they both made these TERRIBLY HIDEOUS angels with soccer balls. I know I should be the supportive aunt and love anything they made, but seriously, there are no kind words for the rainbow colored angels that were created.

Kevin was at a pool party for most of the day Saturday and then spent a little while getting me a NEW COMPUTER!!!!! Yea for me ~ I love it =) The other one was getting slow and cranky, plus the enter key broke. Have you ever noticed how much you use the enter key??? Trust me, it's A LOT!!!!! Not having one was sheer torture...ok, maybe that's a bit drastic, but it certainly wasn't fun =(

We all met up for dinner and then took the girls to see Bandslam. I had no hopes for this teenager flick but it was actually cute! Go ahead and laugh ~ it's ok =)

Today we went to the Museum of Natural Science. The exhibits were fun ~ I think Kevin and I enjoyed them more than the girls. Maybe they aren't quite old enough to appreciate the exhibits fully...mental note made for future visits! They do seem to like the IMAX movie Under the Sea. It still amazes me how many people reach out to touch the animals! People...it isn't actually in front of you...it's only an ILLUSION! Kids get a pass just because it is a cool experience and they are young. Adults not so much =)

Because you are likely tired of my ramblings which have no effect on your daily life, I will wrap it up with this. I had a fabulous dinner with a great friend who I love dearly and haven't seen in FOREVER! Don't you love friends like that! No matter how long it's been when you get together, it might as well have been yesterday! I love you Jennifer!!!!

Hope everyone has a great week!

An Important Lesson...

So I won't even bother going into detail because it ultimately doesn't matter. All you really need to know to understand the lesson the Lord just taught me is this...a number of small things happened this evening, nothing major or life changing, but as the saying goes "when it rains it pours." In fact tonight, what started out as a pretty relaxing spring shower turned into a summer thunderstorm ~ and not the pleasant I want to sleep and watch it rain kind of thunderstorm, but the thunder clapping, dogs hide under the blanket, car alarms go off in the neighborhood, electricity is off for hours and you are burning up kind of thunderstorm! Get the picture?

That being said, all I really wanted to do was crawl into bed and mope about how my plan didn't go as I had dreamed it up in my head ~ and if you know me at all ~ you know the plan in my head was rather detailed...I mean seriously, my spices are alphabetized on a tiered shelf in my cabinet ~ who does that???

But as I sat watching 18 Kids and Counting (yes, I do watch it!), the Lord brought me this verse which I had read earlier this morning in my devotional from Proverbs 31 Ministries.

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

So even though, nothing that happened to me this evening was earth-shattering, I learned this. Even if I do think the sky is falling and the rooster is crowing and life in general is just way too complicated and difficult, at the end of the day, what matters is that I stand on my faith that the Lord is a good God and loves me unconditionally. He may test me and I may hate it (because let's be honest, the tests He often gives us, REALLY STINK!) but everything that has happened to me, is happening now, and is going to happen in the future is all history to Him. It's all going to be ok! When the thunderstorm is over, the sky will be blue again, the sun will rise, and tomorrow is a new day!

Tomorrow is always a new day! Thank the Lord for that!

Prayer is a Powerful Thing!

Perhaps it's because I wear my heart on my sleeve, perhaps it's just my passion for children, or perhaps it's just because it's in my genetic makeup to feel and worry about the pain and struggles of others...

Whatever reason the ultimate cause of my attachment to this dear family, completely unknown to me personally, I have followed their blog religiously and check daily for updates regarding their Miracle Angels.

The Stansel family welcomed six wonderful blessings into this world only days ago. Born approximately four months early, only four of the babies have survived the week. It breaks my heart for this couple. I do not know them and truth be told, will probably never meet them. Their story has been told in a number of magazines and newspapers both here locally and as far away as New York. Some people disagree with their choice to continue the pregnancy without selective reduction. That is an opinion that you are entitled to, whether you agree or disagree with that choice.

Either way, I am asking on their behalf that you lift this family up in prayers to our Heavenly Father ~ for the four remaining babies and for them as a couple as they continue to ride this rollercoaster of joys in small successes, stresses for the many complications, and especially as they struggle to be strong in the midst of their grief.

Thank you in advance and if you want to know more about this family or follow their updates personally, their blog address is: stanseljourney.blogspot.com or you can just click on the link displayed in the sidebar.

Love you all!

THE GREATEST HUSBAND IN THE WHOLE WORLD...

CAME HOME A DAY EARLY!!!!!!!!

I love my husband!!! Kevin was supposed to be gone for work until tomorrow afternoon and last night he mentioned that if all things went in our favor he MIGHT get to come home today instead. Rather than get my hopes up, I figured it probably wouldn't happen ~ better not to hope and therefore, avoid the disappointment. Plus, if you know us, we DO NOT have the best of luck! James and Jaime pick on us b/c it seems we always get the cranky server at restaurants or the annoying teenagers in the movie theater sitting DIRECTLY behind us...anyway, I digress...

So today, I email him around 2 and ask how things were going and that since I hadn't heard from him that I would assume he wasn't coming home early. No big deal ~ the pups and I could make it ONE more day. He responded and said that yes, he was going to be a couple of more hours based on the number of people left to speak and wouldn't be able to catch an earlier flight :(

I called around 5:30 and he didn't answer. So Annie and I left a message updating Daddy on how her rehab went, chalked it up to him probably being at dinner since he was an hour ahead, and went home to clean.

At 9 the phone rings and he asks how I am and I say we are all doing fine. And he says..."Why don't you come to the front door?" And there he was!!!!!! My baby is home AND WITH FLOWERS TOO :)

How great is that?! Truly the best surprise I could have ever asked for! I love you Honey :) Welcome Home!

Sad News :(

Well, it doesn't look like my precious baby made it on tv after all!!!!!!!!! Imagine my heartbreak, especially after telling her how wonderful and perfect she was going to be on tv this morning. I am so sure she understood every word I was saying! In fact, she's probably boycotting any rehab at this very moment!!! Poor, poor baby! No wonder she was completely uninterested in Sully this morning ~ she must have known something I didn't...

Anyway, enough random banter about how wronged we all feel! Here is a link to the Canine Health Institute interview conducted this morning. Dr. Brode is our wonderful doctor, Eva is our fantastic rehab specialist (and neighbor) and Kristi (running MRI machine) is one half of our welcoming crew every morning we drop her off. Apparently, Aunt Amy (as she likes to be called) didn't make it on tv but we won't hold it against her!

Television star or not, this place has been our source of hope in what was one of the very worst trials Kevin and I have faced. We love them all dearly and they will forever be a part of our family!

http://www.khou.com/greatday/video/?nvid=385564&shu=1

Updated Videos :)

It has been a while since we have posted any recent videos of our Little Miracle Walker...and, since Kevin isn't home, I figured I might as well spend my time wisely (ha ha) and update the blog :)

These videos were taken this past Thursday. We took the pups out front (she does well on concrete ~ traction issues I suppose) so that we could give everyone an update! One note...Thursdays aren't her best days as that is her "day of rest" from Wednesdays hydrotherapy + acupuncture + chiropractic adjustments. This is certainly one well-loved baby!

Video One ~ *Disclaimer ~ she kept trying to get to Mommy who just happened to be filming, so I apologize in advance for the somewhat odd video angles :)

Video Two ~ *Due to disclaimer above, we switched the videographer role around so Kevin could get a better video. Note the time on the video and how long she walks around :) It's so thrilling for us and are so grateful for all those who have prayed and are continuing to pray for our baby!

Video Three ~ This is what our first born was up to while Sissy was practicing! You can see how impressed he is with her!

See how impressed?! The neighbor pup is so much more exciting! But to give him the benefit of the doubt, at least our neighbors have a black pomeranian mix, so when his entire world is surrounded by other dachshunds, I think he enjoys playing with one of his own, even if it is through the fence :) I love you Georgie!

Daddy Come Back!

Ok, this was so sad and yet so cute! Kevin left this morning for a week and of course we are all missing him already :( Here is what the pups think of Daddy leaving (and not taking them along!)...

Such sad puppies :( Of course, since they were so sad, I had to give them something to make them happy ~ so they both got a small piece of cheese :) Nothing quite like bribery!

We love you Daddy! See you soon :)

Wonderful & Wordy Wednesday

Wednesdays have never been my favorite day ~ I guess that's why it's so lovingly called Hump Day...so close to Friday and yet so very far away =( But today was a pretty good Wednesday as far as Wednesdays go!

Miss Annie was happy to see her rehab family today and got the wonderful news that she is going to be making her television debut on Monday morning!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am such a proud Mommy! Great Day Houston is going to be interviewing Canine Health Institute and our very own Miss Annie is going to be a success story =) Can't think of a better success story myself ~ she's our very own little miracle pup! AND, I know...GET EXCITED...THERE'S MORE...she is doing SO WELL that she is getting to cut her rehab sessions down to only twice a week instead of three!!! In the words of a good ole Texas Aggie ~ WHOOOOOOOP!

We took a family walk tonight...ok, so only down the block to get the mail, but the pups were excited! George was thrilled to get out and take a walk with Mommy and Daddy (and Sissy I suppose)! I made chicken and spaghetti, which is the pups very favorite, since they get boiled chicken EVERY TIME I make it! I just can't resist those cute puppy dog faces =)

Probably my favorite part of Wednesdays is So You Think You Can Dance ~ I don't like Thursday's show because it's always sad =( We loved tonight's show and especially loved Brandon and Kayla's performances! It's so hard to pick favorites now because they are all such fabulous dancers! I just want to squeeze Evan he's so cute and fun! He has one of the best personalities of all the dancers and makes me smile every time he performs. I am SO NOT looking forward to tomorrow night when two more have to go home =( Just in case you missed it and even if you didn't (because they are worth rewatching), we, well more I =), decided to post a couple of our favorites for you to enjoy!

Well, I suppose that is enough random musings for tonight! Enjoy the videos!

A Saltimbanco Saturday :)

Let me just start with this..."If you haven't yet seen a Cirque du Soleil show, PLEASE GO!!!" Our very first Cirque experience was this past Valentine's Day. The four of us* went to see "O" while we were in Vegas and it was SOOOOOO amazing! We vowed if we were ever given a chance to see another show, we were going, no questions asked!

So, when Saltimbanco came to Houston, we bought tickets immediately. Now, I have to say, Saltimbanco was much different than "O" and we were I think all expecting something a little different! This is not to discredit the amazing acts and talented performers, we were just a bit surprised at how different the two shows were. Anyway, to describe a Cirque show would require words that I do not know :) It is truly something you have to see to believe! Hence, the big PLEASE GO!!! above :)

I have to say that of the entire show, my favorite parts were the pole climbers and the trapeze acts ~ the amount of trust that those people have with one another is from some other world! On a number of occasions, you would think the audible gasps from the crowd would have sucked all the air from the Toyota Center! Obviously it didn't since I'm still breathing :) but you get the point!

Unfortunately, you can't take pictures inside, though for the artists safety, I COMPLETELY understand! Here are a couple from before we went in! We had a great time and can't wait for our next Cirque show :) If Jaime and I could ever get the boys to take us to NYC, I bet we could see a great one :) Hint, hint Kevin and James!!!

*For all future posts, when I say the four of us, just know I am referring to James and Jaime! The four of us are a pack all our own ~ the greatest best friends ever and a part of our family forevermore!