Johnathan, Michele, and Braedon

John is 30

2011-11-02T15:08:00.003-05:00

Can you believe we are getting "OLD"? It is amazing to me how fast time goes by. I remember when I used to think WOW 30 is so old but now I do not. I am now married to a 30 year old. I didn't post it then but I am now. We had a little quiet celebration at home with his parents. It was the night he got home and I had planned to do a big "surprise bash" with big Mike but John likes to be at home with Braedon as much as he can so anyway:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE BEST HUSBAND EVER. I HOPE YOU HAVE MANY MANY MANY MORE YEARS LEFT TO PUT UP WITH ME.

Braedon's 3rd Birthday

2011-11-02T14:37:00.004-05:00

I have done all of October's post so I guess I will go back and do one from September. It was hard to believe but my precious baby turned 3 this year. I had the cutest little party all planned out but at the last minute... Braedon decided to TELL me what kind of party he wanted which was new to me. I realized at the very moment, my baby was growing up. He acts so grown sometimes but he point blank told me that he wanted a "Pirate" party and there was no changing his mind at all. SOOOO we went with a Pirate Theme! It turned out really cute. The mascot at PA is the pirate so I was able to borrow a lot of stuff to go with the theme!!! Saved me a lot of money too. We had it at Land-O-Lakes. It was almost too cold but we made it. We enjoyed everyone that made it and we hate the ones that weren't there didn't make it. Nichole just happened to be home this time for Braedon's party, and Braedon ended up leaving with Briley that day. They loved getting to see each other when they do. I hope we are able to go to Briley's in March!!! Enjoy the pics.

Braedon blowing out his candles.

Braedon got a bb gun from Bradley and Haley.... They are expecting a little one in May.... Pay back will come.

Our family... All in our state attire at the party.

They played in a blow up Pirate Ship that sprayed water.

This was the food table. It had the "Taylor-made cake", I did X marked the spot breadsticks, sailing pirate ships (orange slices with pirate sail on top of blue jello), cannon swords (grapes stuck on sword picks), and bleeding juice....

This is the birthday boy and Laurel before the party playing with the big pirate man.

Braedon the pirate

Fortunate Few

2011-11-02T14:09:00.005-05:00

I do believe that I have said it before but I am staying it again. Braedon is a very lucky little boy. He has the sheer pleasure of having so many great grandparents and ALL his grandparents. I do realize that this makes him a lucky little boy. I was blessed as well when I was little because I got to meet all my great grandparents as well. BUT Braedon knows them by name and loves to see them all any chance he gets. I have to say that unfortunately, he does not see the greats as much as we would all like. He did, however, see every single one of his grandparents this past weekend!!!! John and I decided that he is very fortunate and a very loved child. Thank you Lord for allowing my child to have this time with some of the most precious people that we know.

These are all his greats that are still living. First, its Grandma and Braedon, the Mawmaw and Pawpaw, and the monster is Grandpa!!!!!

Halloween 2011

2011-11-02T13:47:00.005-05:00

We went to Caledonia like always this Halloween because it is so much fun to see all the kids dressed up and see Braedon trick or treat with all the houses beign decorated like Halloween. We look forward to this everyyear but this year John was home and got to with us. I am not sure he liked it as much as I do because he does not like a crowd. Grandma and Gerald had over 300 trick or treaters plus the entire family was there to join in on the fun... on every single side... it was so much fun and as usual I loved it and can't wait til next year.

This is my family on Halloween

Aunt Peggy, Lawson and Braedon checking out their loot.

Miles joined the fun this year. I can't wait til next year when he can run along with Braedon

Guess who this is.... Grandpa George... he scared my sweet baby to death.

Braedon and John trick or treating.

Braedon and Lawson, Frankenstein

The Johnston Family

The Boys... Miles and Braedon

Savanah's Party

2011-11-02T13:24:00.004-05:00

We went to Savanah's 13th birthday party this month. I cannot believe this precious sweet child has grown into a beautiful teenager. She had a costume party with a hay ride. I was so glad she thought to invite us. We miss seeing her so much and I wish she was closer cause she would be an excellent babysitter!!! Here are a few pics from that night.

Braedon is Spiderman, Brody Buchanan is Capt. America, the birthday girl is a chicken, Jenn was a Dallas Cowboy cheerleader, Missie Conner was "Dorothy", Tina Buchanan was the Dark Angel, Jimbo was crazy, and The monster man is Richy Buchanan

Savanah

2011-11-02T13:24:00.001-05:00

Pawpaw's Birthday

2011-11-02T09:12:00.005-05:00

Pawpaw and his Great grandsons, Braedon and MilesMiles
Mawmaw and Pawpaw and their Greats

We had Pawpaw's 83rd Birthday celebration this past weekend. It was really the 1st time we had all been together since Father's day weekend. Everyone is always pulled in all directions and for John and Daddy to be home at the same time was shocking. We ate a Beverly's house and as you can see from the pics I am about to post, Miles is growing up fast. He is crawling and pulling up. Before long he will be walking and Braedon will be thrilled. Braedon loves to see "baby Miles" as he calls him! Check out the cute pics.

June 2011

2011-07-10T17:57:00.003-05:00

I seem to have stopped blogging when school got out in May. Unfortunately I don't have a A computer with internet service at home although I am trying my best to get it. I miss it something terrible. I can't do anything unless it can be done on my iphone. I need a laptop too.... I miss my precious students yet I am excited about getting a whole new bunch next year. I also miss ALL my coworkers. It is fantastic working with such great folks. So glad I found my way to right where I am at. It is also bittersweet because I am thrilled to get to spend all summer at home with my precious little boy BUT it is hard to take him back in August and jump back into a schedule. At first I did good keeping him on it but that has totally changed. Sometimes he gets his nap sometimes he don't. Anyway Summer has been great....we have at the pool or lake for days/hours on end. John broke down and got us a pool... its perfect for Braedon and my float. Although the little daredevil would rather be somewhere with a diving board. That is all he likes to do now.... do tricks off the diving board. He is still wearing his floaties but its really for my purpose... I have not pushed him like I should because he makes me NERVOUS. Anyhow that is all we have done in June. Happy Summer Everyone

Behind

2011-05-11T10:53:00.000-05:00

Looks like I've gotten way behind again and I am sure that does not surprise anyone... We have just been going on with everyday life. Its always pretty interesting though with our little blonde headed wild child. He is growing and getting his own little personality although at some points I would say he is bipoloar. Most of the time, when he gets his way, of course, everything is just fine. We had a busy March as you can see from the last few post. The rest of March was pretty easy going. I had testing at school the week after Spring Break and we just took it easy after John left. After testing, we rolled right into April. It was a wild time with some terrible weather. Praise the Lord we all made it through all that just fine with no major damage. The April 15th storms jumped right over our place leaving behind a little hail damage. I rode that one out at Mama's. The April 27th Storm appeared in our front yard and Thanks to the Lord himself headed North west instead of just West otherwise we would be homeless or worse! It was awful. I rode this one out in the bathroom of our house screaming like a mad woman at my husband to get in there with me and off the front porch. It was awful. I hope I never go through that again and if I do I pray that I am not alone. We then lost lights for 3 days but never once did I complain after seeing the news about the communities around me and seeing the damage 500 ft in my front yard and down the road we live. I was just not easy to be around. We stayed with Ty and Jayden these two nights and went back home on that Friday night. Other than that, life has been pretty boring which has been great. I will do my Easter post when I have my pictures to go up. They aren't on this computer. Nichole and Briley were here so that was just wonderful. They will be here again this week and I am hoping we get to lay eyes on them with their busy schedules!!!

March 19, 2011

2011-03-24T10:19:00.007-05:00

This is by far the best picture he took all day... Great Great picture of granny and Braedon

Johnathan and Haley at the reception

Haley and I at the reception

The Banks and The Beards

The Banks.. Notice he is saying Cheese

This is where he ended up after walking down the aisle. I did capture the shot before getting him

The crazy Groomsmen with Haley

Looking for the horses. I had to get him away from everyone for a minute

The cool picture with the groomsmen. Everyone had glasses including Braedon

Bradley and Braedon

Mama, Leave me alone!!!!

This was a big day for a lot of reasons. First of all, it was Bradley Beard's wedding day... Who would've dreamed that. I will say he picked the perfect bride, Haley Ross. They are just so much in love and seem to fit together perfectly. It was a gorgeous day for a wedding. The sun was perfect and the temp was just right... although it could've been cooler and we've been alright too. Second of all, Johnathan and Braedon were in there first wedding together. It was such an honor for Bradley and Haley to ask Braedon to be in the wedding. I was a little apprehensive at first cause I was thinking he is too little, I would rather just enjoy the festivities! But overall, it was fun and Braedon did OK to be two!!!! His daddy didn't think so but oh well. He got over it. We got to Circle M around 12:45. We left early so Braedon would get a nap in...I let him sleep in the car until about 2:30. Then we had to get the tux on him for pictures. He was not the least bit interested, but since the big boys had them on, he was ok this time. He got dressed and played pool and had fun with the groomsmens. He loved that part!!! Then pics came up... Not so much fun anymore. He did ok while taking them with Bradley and the groomsmen! Then we went to see the horses and play awhile. When it was time to take pics with the Bride. Braedon was not interested AT ALL!!! He literally screamed the entire time. Thank goodness this was his ONLY fit for the entire day which was pretty good. I hate it was with Haley though. My favorite pics of my wedding are those of Landon and I! But we shot them first thing because I did not want Landon to get ill on me!!! I still have them up in my house. Well this little ring bearer did not cooperate at all for these pictures. After these we got ready for the big moment. I was really nervous but I did not get my hopes up for. I had no clue what he was going to do. He was ready to get out the door of that house though. He was just not expecting it to be full of people. I walked on and took my seat in the front and he kinda just followed. He didn't actually go up to the front but he did walk down the aisle pouting the entire way. Once to the front he got loose from me and went and stood between to pine trees. He was determined to go fishing. Thank Goodness Big Mike was over that way and I just stood with him. During the prayer Braedon decided he wanted to go up there with the groomsmen so I let him in hopes that someone would get a shot of the ENTIRE wedding party while he was up theres. SO FAR... No one!!! anyway his daddy held him for a little while then he came running back over to me. He was ok but honestly not the best little fellow. We took a few more pictures with him acting like a typical two year old bad child and then we went to the reception where he turned back into Braedon!!!! He ate, had a good time, ate cake, played with the kids, played with caterpillars, and just had a grand old time. Then he went home with his grandparents again and then I commenced to have myself a grand ole time. Drank and danced the night away... It was a beautiful wonderful ceremony and reception. The band was great like always and it was great spending the evening amongst friends. I wish we could just lay back and do that all the time!!! Bradley and Haley had a wonderful day and sailed away to Mexico Monday. I hope they are living it up like they don't have to return to reality!!! Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Bradley Beard! We love you and hope you are always as happy as you are right now!!! Welcome the "family" Haley!!!

Miles William Johnston

2011-03-24T09:44:00.002-05:00

How could I forget the most important event of February???? On Feb. 3rd, we welcomed a precious new baby into the family. The baby has been very anticipated since early summer last year. It seemed like Leslie was pregnant forever. Thankfully her labor was induced and scheduled so I took off and was able to be there. Chad was an absolute nervous wreck. That goodness he held it together long enough to "birth" the baby. I don't even remember John being that nervous and I was having a C section. Anyway, Leslie did not have to wait to long like some people do. I got to the hospital right around lunch. If I am remembering correcting she had him right after 1 or right after 2... I can't remember. But I do remember it was a short time of them being in there alone. After the birth, the stingy parents kept the baby with them for over an hour. Finallly Chad came out and let the grandparents and great grands go back... well I missed the chance. Next thing we knew the nurse was holding the sweet baby up in the window of the nursery and no one was even around to claim him or look at him... I mean we could've been giving warning... Finally we realized it was him and we got a good look and took a few pictures. I then went around to see Leslie who looked like million bucks. After this of course, the baby has to stay in the nursery for a while... so we went to eat at the Tin Lizzy. Let me add... it was snowing! It was cold! and the roads were freezing!!! After our lunch, we ran back in to the see the baby! It was not in the room yet. We were getting phone calls and people were giving out road warnings so I decided to leave. I was determined to get home to my BABY that night. I finally did make it too. After seeing wrecks on every bridge between West Point and Scooba! It was bad. I hate I didn't get to hold Miles that night but I did go see him the very next chance I got the next weekend. Can't wait til the little booger throws his fits to come home with me... It will be before we know it. I will post pics asap. I don't have my pics on this work computer!!!!

March

2011-03-24T08:56:00.003-05:00

SO far March has been really really busy. It of course really did come in like a lion with all its thunderstorms but thankfully I was staying at my mama's when all this happened because I was suppose to go on my field trip to Montgomery on March the 9th... Well that didn't happen due to the weather. Coach White and all I called it off because of the dangerous storms lurking on the Montgomery area. We have now rescheduled so my 18 little people are pretty excited again. That week was also the beginning of Spring Break. Boy, did it come in with a bang for me. I had been having a few little issues thinking I was getting old and just had heartburn or something along those lines then on Friday, March 11th, I got to hurting extremely bad and left school. By the time I got to daycare to pick up Braedon, I could not pick him up, I was hurting so bad. I literally thought I was having a heart attack... Anyway I got to Macon Medical at 11:50 and was rushed right on back... I have no idea why I didn't just go to the ER in West Point like I would have on a typical occasion.... AGAIN I thought this was heartburn. Well, it wasn't. After blood work, chest x-ray, and an ultrasound, I find out I have a severly infected gall bladder.. WHAT???? Yeah I am old now. So the talk of surgery came up... NO NOT ME.. .NOT THIS WEEK. I HAD TO MANY PLANS!!! SOOOO after a huge shot of rocefin (SP????) and a big bottle of antibiotics, I got sent on home knowing I had to return on Monday. I missed Justin's surprise Birthday party and I was so disappointed. BUT I was determined to make it to help Carrie and Jeff cater Lauren Nelson Scott's wedding reception that Saturday night and I DID!! I am so glad I could help out. It was so much fun and the food was wonderful. Congratulations to the Scotts'!!!!! Sunday I practically laid around all day, didn't feel like moving. On Monday, I had to go back for more blood work! Infection was practically gone but we still needed to see what was going on, so I had to go for a HIDA scan at the hospital that Wednesday. Let me just say it was awful. I think I'd rather just have another baby... least something sweet and precious comes about after that!!! I got stuck 4 times trying to get the IV going then the medicine they give you after laying flat for 2 hours actually BURNS your insides and makes (what is already hurting) the gall bladder contract.... IT HURT! Anyway, I made a few stops after that. I even made a little time to go see my new 2nd favorite little boy, Miles William Johnston. I gotta go back and do that post! How could I forget???? Anyway test back fine... no stones, no blocked ducts, functioning fine. I could have another flare up anytime, today, next week, or 3 years from now!! Who knows. BUt I do know the signs now. Hopefully I will be able to treat it with antibiotics next time. The rest of Spring Break, we practically just worked in the yard. Thursday night, Johnathan and I went to help Diann and Jr set up for the rehearsal dinner. It was beautiful. Diann did a great job. Friday night, of course, was rehearsal and the dinner. All went great. Braedon played ball with Bradley and only Bradley all evening. He did walk done the aisle just like he was SUPPOSED to do on Saturday. We really had a fun evening. After rehearsal dinner, Braedon went home with Maw and Grandaddy while John hung with Bradley and I helped set up for the wedding reception. Wedding post is later to come!!!! Spring Break was just great. I almost need a break to recover.

Family Fun Pictures

2011-03-24T08:46:00.003-05:00

Uncle Ty and Braedon riding the 4 wheeler in the snow

John and Braedon riding the tractor one Sunday afternoon

Braedon got into some fondant icing after Haley and Bradley's couple shower... Yes it was blue... Cheese mama

Fun Days

2011-03-24T08:29:00.002-05:00

Braedon looking at Laurel who was looking up at him from the bottom. They are so cute

Little Bad Boy

She sure is a little princess!!!!
Carrie and her sweet girls, Laurel and Layla

February had a few pretty days even though it snowed. As a matter of fact the Sunday before it snowed, Carrie and I took the kids to the lock and dam in Columbus to play and to Sonic for ice cream and pickle O's. We had a go to walmart too with all 3 kids!!! Anyway we used to see a lot of one another when we went to Weight Watchers every week but since we have become lifetime members we only have to go once a month and we never seem to get away with each other... I surely miss the "adult" time!!! Anyway, the kids had a blast! Here are a few pictures from that day!!!!

Charity Ball

2011-03-23T13:41:00.007-05:00

Johnathan and I all dressed up

Haley, Bradley, Will and Emily

Carrie, The President and Me

LA, Callie, and Me

This year since John was home and Carrie is the president of JA, we decided to go to Charity Ball or as some call it, The Grown UP Prom. Whatever it might be, we did have a great time, ate good food, so people we never get to see, and dressed up. For the first time, I actually wore a formal dress. I usually wear my black pants and a cute top... this year I opted for the dress. I regretted it as I got dress but overall it turned out ok. Thanks Hollie for all your help!!!!!

Superbowl Weekend

2011-03-23T13:31:00.003-05:00

Braedon played tug of war with Bit, Michael and Callie's dog all night long it seemed

Then he did flips and danced to the music on the half time show.

Will Dinsmore is probably one of Braedon's favorite people. I believe the feelings are mutual though... That's Hannah Moffett in the background... Parker as probably on top of the table....

CHEESE MAMA

This year John was home for the superbowl so we actually went to a "superbowl" party instead of me going shopping or just sitting at home. We went to Haley and Bradley's house and had a great time. Braedon slept for a little while but when he woke up, he was buck wild. There 3 dogs and 3 wild kids running around not to mention everyone else. We had a great time as we always do around this bunch.... we probably would have been more lively but the night before we had all attended a couple's shower for Bradley and Haley at the lake and then went to "Social hour" at the Dinsmore's house. It was nice to catch up though. As you can see from a few pics.... Braedon had a great time!!!!

Lost Loved One

2011-03-23T10:22:00.005-05:00

This is Cat, the youngest pit. She and Braedon share almost the same birthday.
This is our beloved Nikki!

This is Tank, our HUGE male. He is a little fiesty! But he can be lovable too..We do believe he is getting old and sick though!!!!

This is our precious precious Nik. He loved Braedon... He loved all of us. I hate not seeing him everytime I go out in the yard or hearing his whining bark that used to get on my nerves! I always knew when Nik barked something was around... he is greatly missed!!!

On Valentine's Day this year we lost a beloved member of our family, our dog, Nik! Nik has been around all of my life with Johnathan. We started out with 3 of these pits all brother and sisters. They are absolutely the most wonderful dogs. Pits have a bad name, and yes, I am somewhat cautious with Braedon. But with Nik and Nikki it was different. A dog is what you make it. These dogs were very VERY vicious when it came to hog hunting but when they unloaded out of that dog box at HOME it was a very different story. They were all very protective of me and especially with Braedon. I am very careful how I talk to Braedon and how I treat him in the yard... We or shall I say I lost the first one, on August 26, 2007! Before Braedon of course, John was not home and that was the worst conversation I've ever had with him on the phone!!! Anyway God took care of that one because I would have never allowed Braedon to play with her... she had a temper! NOW Nik, was a different story. He was raised around Jayden as a baby and he loved attention and was great with kids. We lost him to cancer. It was just a sad sad day and it still stinks to walk out in the yard and he is not there. We still have Nikki... I raised her in my house as a puppy. She has been retired from hunting for long time due to a bad hip and no teeth!!! She sleeps in the house or in her chair on the front porch. She is very very spoiled.... BUT no one with good sense gets out when she is out unless of course they know us or her.... except for my brother, Michael.... she does not like him in the least! But anyway she is our most beloved animal... It seems like we are about to lose our other male. He is a little sickly! This only leaves me with 3 dogs.. .which is way odd for me. We have already purchased a new male pit 6 week old, Sully! WE have not picked him up yet but we will. Maybe a few pics will upload of our animals.

More snow

2011-03-23T10:14:00.001-05:00

Braedon saying cheese and getting ready to go outside!!
He was trying his best to get me with a snowball!!!

The night it all started I took him outide because I didn't want to wake up Thursday morning and it all be gone. He was trying to catch the snow with his tongue.

I tried to get a picture of us together but it was a little difficult.

We had another little snow "storm" in Feb. John was not home but Braedon and I did have a little fun in the snow!!!

Adventure #1

2011-02-01T10:16:00.002-06:00

We went on our first little adventure at our new home. Braedon was wandering after the dogs on our 2nd day at the new house. We just kinda wondered what he would do. Well of course he did not care. He just followed the dogs so we had to follow but not before picking up my camera. He was a ways off but we knew (or thought) he'd stop so we could catch up. We did have fun exploring the old barn as did the dogs. I am sure there will be many more adventures in our near future.!

Snow Days

2011-02-01T10:08:00.001-06:00

Notice he has no shoes on. He found the only water there was. AND EXCUSE the no make up!!!! I looked like death!

Well we have had snow more in the past couple of months than I remember having in a long time. NO it has not been the "fun" big snows like we have had in the past but it has been SNOW. Braedon loved it. He loved throwing snowballs which could be "ice balls" and he loved playing in it. I just thought it made mess!!! Here are just a few of our pics in the snow!!!

January

2011-01-23T12:56:00.003-06:00

January has been full of new adventures for all of us. First of all, I don't know if I ever posted it or not but we sold our house back in December. We had to be out on Jan. 14th. This sale has not been the best thing in my eyes. Its a million wonders that my marriage status has not changed but it is not over yet. I did not want to sell my house but more importantly I did not want to move to Scooba, Ms. I have been there and done that before and I moved back home then. Oh yes, we are living in Scooba, at Johnathan's grandmother's place. There is nothing wrong with the place we are living. It is just by no means where I want to be. It added about 15 minutes to my drive to work, its 37 miles from my mama and my church, and a needless to say I just don't like it. But on the up side, I do have it looking like home, I have decorated it, and we are living the country life. We have our 8 dogs lined up the back yard, our guard dog sleeping in a recliner on the front porch, and a black cat roaming the inside of the house in search of all the mice that have invaded. Yes a cat. I hate hate hate cats but I surely hate a mouse worse than anything. I have even caught some on a trap and wouldn't move them because I hate a mouse that bad but we are working on it.

The other news is that we are potty training. I did not want to start this. I have not been in a hurry at all but on Sunday, Braedon threw a fit to put on his "Toy Story" underwear that I bought on a whem one day. I finally gave in and put them on him. I informed him that he could not Tee Tee on Woody. OK MA he said. Well that has been a week ago. Only two accidents all week long and they were not tee tee!!!! GROSS is the word for that. Other than that its been great at home and at daycare. Hopefully it will keep going good and we will learn about the GROSS part asap!!!

We are still patiently waiting on Mr. Miles Johnston. I cannot wait to meet the little fellow and see his impact on Chad and Leslie. They have no clue what fantastic path they are about to embark on. Its wonderful. Good Luck you two. The Banks Family (especially "Aunt" Chele) can't wait to meet you!!!

Update on all blogs

2011-01-23T12:35:00.002-06:00

Well I am finally catching up on everyone's blog and I guess I will do a little bit of updating on us. I don't have internet yet at home so therefore I am trying to catch up today. First of all, Julianna, I love your way with words. You are wise beyond your years honey. I just hope you really acknowledge all you say... but I know you do. Love you girl. Catherine, your sweet little Audrey Caroline is in my prayers as you are! As a mother, I can't imagine. I do believe that that sweet little angel will be perfectly fine! Ashia, I don't know whether to say your crazy or your a better mama than I am with way more patience and time doing cloth diapers. It just sounds crazy in these days BUT good for you. Potty Training might be easy on you. Good Luck and she is precious by the way. She sounds so much like my little one! Stacey, all your Christmas memories are wonderful. I can't wait to take Braedon to Disney on Ice, but the princesses was not for us. I wish Toy Story would come close but so far its not. Those are the blogs that I read all the time. If I missed someone, Sorry, I'll catch up with you later. My updates next.

Day after Christmas

2010-12-28T21:03:00.005-06:00

The day after Christmas we were pretty much lazy most of the day and John went hunting. We did Christmas with his family that night. Unfortunately, Ty was working. We had fun and ate to much like normal. Braedon had his first mishap and threw a ball through a window with the help of Jayden. He did do the throwing but she told him too.. NO she did not tell on him and he didn't say a word... John and I were both in the room when it happened. I had no idea a little rubber bouncy ball would break a window. OH well accidents happen and there will be many more... SORRY MAW!!! This wrapped our Christmas up!!!! Braedon got sick tonight. His fever shot up to 103.4 and we ended up coming home. We did go to the dr on Monday and it is swollen tonsils and an ear infection. We are likely looking at removing his tonsils pretty soon but this mama is kinda hoping NOT!!! I hope everyone else had a MERRY MERRY CHRISTMAS. I wish everyone a HAPPY HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

Braedon opening his presents from Maw and Granddaddy!!

Grandaddy in Braedon's favorite riding toy!!! I am surprised Braedon is not in it or trying to get in it. Maw with two of her grandkids. Of course, neither of them would look at the camera at the same time!!!!

Christmas Day

2010-12-28T20:28:00.004-06:00

Braedon's Stash from Santa... He didn't know what to play with first.. .He said WOW MOM!!!!

Daddy thought he would play too. He opened one present that's hit.. Then he thought they were all clothes and he moved one to playing.

He loved Mr. Potato Head..> He screamed TOY STORY!!! Of course that is his favorite show! His daddy showed him how to target shoot as well!!!

Granny gave Braedon his favorite gift of all.. The rideable front end loader. He has gone all over the house. The boys, Michael and Jacob, are all opening their gifts here. Jacob still didn't feel real good and Mama ended up getting sick!

Jacob was suppose to be showing Braedon how to do the legos and lego table but I think he ended up just playing himself. Mama played with Mr. Potato head with Braedon. She couldn't believe that they come with REAL clothes now not just plastic ones!!!

Christmas Day we changed up a bit BUT OF COURSE, Santa came like normal and boy, he must have emptied the sleigh!! Braedon got everything under the sun and more. We had a great time with him that morning before the chaos started.

We have always gone to my mother's house on Christmas morning and opened gifts and ate lunch... then the grandparents all appeared one by one whenever they pleased. This year was a little different. Mama decided that I needed to start my own tradition since I have kids. SOOOO I did. Now I will not leave my house on Chrismas day like she used to do and everyone will come to my house and open gifts then eat lunch. This year we cooked lunch at my house and my parents, my brothers, John's parents, and Grandpa were all here for lunch. Then Mawmaw and Pawpaw came in later and ate as well. Unfortunately Grandma and Gerald did not come because she didn't want to catch anyone's sickness or get out in the snow. YES SUPRISE WE HAD A WHITE CHRISTMAS IN MISSISSIPPI. Of course it did not stick around but it was still pretty while it lasted. Amber did not make it to the house either but she did make it to Jayi's later. Chad and Leslie stopped by Christmas night to visit for a minute as well. We enjoyed every minute of our Christmas day. Best thing of all... John was here for it all. It was super great having him to share it all with especially with Braedon enjoying it like he did!!!

Christmas Eve

2010-12-28T19:59:00.004-06:00

Braedon LOVES Mawmaw's banana pudding.. .he would not share. John and I

Notice the facial expression. He had to get it out and shoot everyone. Mawmaw and Pawpaw's face here is priceless. They were laughing at Braedon and they just look so wonderful and happy. Notice Jacob. He was sick and didn't feel like being there but he was for his grandparents.

Living Room in chaos and Braedon with hat Bev gave him. He loves ALL hats. Notice Braedon on top of the cooker. He was jumpoing off to Michael. He is such a dare devil and Michael just encourages him!!!

Chad was more excited over Miles' (???) little gifts. I, of course, the teacher, got him books and mama got him some camo coveralls.... They were so cute.

We always celebrate Christmas with the Presley's on Christmas Eve at Mawmaw and Pawpaw's house. This year was no different EXCEPT John was home. We were all excited for John to finally be at home Christmas. Its a rare thing around here. He was home Braedon's 1st Christmas but he had to leave that very day. It was SAD! Anyway he was home this year. We had a blast at Mawmaw's like normal and ate and ate and ate... Her dressing is like no other and this year it was scruptious!!! We did miss Leslie this year. Her family celebrates at the same time. We got to revamp this whole thing before next Christmas so the baby can be at both places as well.

Thanksgiving

2010-12-28T19:42:00.003-06:00

Braedon loved playing in the fountains

We sat down to eat together with a little formal sitting

Braedon was hiding under the GLASS table as we waited for Uncle Michael to join us.

This is 3 of the 4 generations... they are missing the 3rd ME cause I was behind the camera!!! Pawpaw was 82 this year, Braedon was 3 and Daddy is 49!!!

Braedon Loves his pawpaw...

Its been a while since I have posted anything so I am starting with Thanksgiving. We did something a little different this year. At the last minute Mawmaw decided she wasn't cooking. SO we decided to go out for Thankgiving... We went to the Holiday Inn in Columbus for lunch. HONESTLY..... it was a pretty good idea... no one had to cook, wash dishes, or clean up their house. It was not like normal though. The food was good but not like Mawmaw's Overall good experience... We did go to Mawmaw's that Saturday for a big family feast. On Thanksgiving night we went to the Banks' house to eat with just Mr. Bubba and Mrs. Pat.. the boys were working. That same night Carrie and I left around 8:00 going shopping in Tupelo. We had fun but we will probably change our tradition back to leaving early and hitting walmart in West Point first. We always have a good time though. We got back around 3 that afternoon right in time for a good NAP!!!!

Busy Week

2010-11-21T19:08:00.004-06:00

Bowling at Bulldawg Lanes. Braedon's favorite part was the shoes!

The week John is at home goes by like a flash. We of course stayed busy this time just like every time. He got home on early on Tuesday morning but we did not see him before leaving for work. I didn't really want Braedon to see him and then cry all the way to daycare and then all day long and since John was just getting home I knew he would be busy. On Tuesday night we got the pleasure of keeping Laurel and Layla. Laurel and Braedon are so funny together and John enjoyed seeing them interact. He never gets to see him with other kids like I do so it was a treat. I also got the pleasure of giving Laurel her first sucker (or Layla said it was her first)! Boy I was her favorite person in the world until I had to take the stick away from her. But I just gave her a new one. We had so much fun with the three kidos!!!!

Braedon getting ready for hunting season!

Wednesday, Braedon ended up getting sick or had fever and I took him to the dr. Of course, they didnt' find anything wrong but since he had been exposed to Strep and the flu they treated him for both. I now believe that he just wanted to stay home with his daddy which he got to do Thursday. By the time I got home, John had been "stuck" in the house to long he said and had to do something. Well needless to say this did not sit well but that is different story different day. I ended up taking Braedon to mama's and Carrie and I went to weigh in. We are both currently Life Time members and Weight Watchers and have been for about three months now... BUT that is for now with me... Holidays will not help me lose anything I am sure! But that is okay. I know how to lose it again. Anyway we enjoyed out "girls night with no kids". This is rare for us... like once a month!!!! Friday night we stayed in and then Saturday I did Frosty Frollies in Macon and enjoyed seeing everyone. Braedon stayed home with his daddy and then that night we went to the Grill in Starkville to eat supper and watch the ball game. Mrs. Pat kept Braedon for us that night and he enjoyed his time with them and Jayden! Sunday was a rainy day. We overslept for church then John and Braedon slept all through lunch. We ended up going bowling that afternoon. It was Braedon's first time. He loved it but did throw a few fits since he is so independent and all!!! John had to leave Monday night but we did have a great week with him. Unfortunately he will not be home Thanksgiving but that is ok because he will be home Christmas this year and we are thrilled!!!!

Busy Busy

2010-11-08T17:07:00.002-06:00

This weekend went by way tooo fast. We decided to stay home Friday night instead of going to town with mama and Jacob like we usually do.... Instead we went Saturday. There were a few open houses that I wanted to hit up in Downtown Columbus. We left the house around 10:30 and went to Columbus. We ended up going in every shop that was open downtown. Everybody had some really cute stuff but I was just not in the Christmas Spirit. I did buy Braedon the cutest Christmas shirt in Ethan's Closet by Party and Paper. It is a sister store to Monograms. I guess Monograms is going to move their children's stuff to the new store. Other than that I did not buy anything... I probably would not have bought that had I not drew a 40 percent off! I guess I will get in the mood by Black Friday. Carrie and I always hit up all the sales. This year we are even contemplating the Midnight sales... Whoohoo!!!
After shopping, Braedon and I went to eat lunch at Peps as he calls it. He always wants a dot dog and then he calls Peppers... Peps. He was a fantastic little date. It is amazing how he acts when it is just us...like a little angel... but let someone else be with us and he is a hellion!!! After Peps we ran in Kmart to get little Miss Camryn Higginbotham a birthday present. He threw a little fit in the store because he wanted Toy Story 3! Santa has that on his list so I didn't get it. From there we went to the Pumpkin Patch. Braedon slept for about the first 45 minutes then he joined the fun. He loved it! I believe all the children had a great time and it was good to see Nikki and Kellis and the families.
SInce we were in Caledonia, we went on to visit all of my grandparents. We ended up leaving Caledonia around 6 or so and went to walmart. Braedon fell asleep on the way and ended up sleeping in the buggy curled up in my jacket. It was precious but of course my camera was in the car. Best walmart trip since he was a infant!!!! I left there (with him still asleep) and went throw Wendy's. The minute he heard the speaker he woke up saying I eat. I eat... My child never turns down food. He ate of course, and then we made a quick trip by mama's to see Dayll as he calls Daddy! He just loves him...wish he could see more of him! Anyway great Saturday. When we got home, we were both give out and I didn't even unload. We woke up Sunday and went to church, visited with mom and dad again and then came home to a lazy Sunday... It was fantastic! Now John comes home tomorrow and I know we will have a great week with lots of fun planned. I will post pics later of the eventful weekend.

Braedon's Growing up

2010-11-05T21:31:00.001-05:00

This is Braedon as a dog for his first halloween. I remember having to go take his pictures in the costume because it was really to little. He would not have been able to wear it another day... they just grow so fast. In 2009, he was monkey. This year for some odd reason, he was a dog again... but boy has he grown! Time sure does fly when your having fun. It seems like yesterday, he was so tiny and sweet and innocent! Then I blinked and now he acts so grown. He can still be sweet but not all the time and he is not very innocent unless he's being sweet... He is absolutely all boy but he is the love our lives and we are so Thankful for this precious little boy each and every day!

I have been looking at old pictures so I thought I would compare some of Braedon. This is a picture of him taken in the Cotton Truck at the pumpkin patch this year (red shirt) and last year 2009. He has changed looks so much. It looks like a little boy now. Kinda sad!

2 year photo shoot!!!

2010-11-03T20:14:00.008-05:00

My fabulous cousin/friend/student/photographer took Braedon's two year old pictures for me. I don't typically like the studio type photos... I am more of a natural type pic. Posed photos almost look so fake sometimes. Well these are definately not fake nor are they posed. We chose to do the Pumpkin patch which had a darling set up but my child was totally uncooperative. He screamed and cried the entire time and was the ultimate embarrassment. I profusely apologized to Julianna because she had never seen this side of Braedon and honestly neither have I. He is usually fine outside no matter the time of day or place but this day was a different story! ALTHOUGH he as terrible, Julianna did a fantastic job and got some priceless pictures that I ended up loving. I have showed them to lots of people and they have just marveld at at how good they really turned out despite my child. Here take a sneak peak for yourself! Thanks Julianna... I promise next time I will try to have a better idea that involves no riding and no interruption of nap time!!!!!!!!!

Halloween 2010

2010-11-03T19:02:00.007-05:00

As we have done for the past 5 years (minus year Braedon was born), we go to Grandma and Gerald's for a Halloween celebration with the Gentry family and with the Nolands. It is a grand thing for the kiddos and even the big kids. I have dressed up the last three years and we just have so much fun. All the houses are decked out in Halloween decorations from coffins, witches, graveyards, skeletons, monsters, and even scare scrows! If you can think of it.... its there. It is so much fun. Last year Braedon went as a Monkey, I called Bubbles and I went as Bubble's Master, Michael Jackson! This year he was a dalmation and I was a somewhat, Cruella De Ville. I just dress up for pics then I change into normal clothes. We have all types of "monsterous" food... I will post examples. Everyone just has a blast. Braedon really enjoyed trick or treating this year. He was little Mr. Independent and did it all on his own. His little "tick or teet" was so cute and everyone just oooodled over him. He even threw in a few "tank yous"! These are the times I will never forget of course. There were a few things that scared him of course. Grandpa being the main thing. He just didn't like anyone's mask. Later on Braedon kept referring to him as "bad Granpa" Bad Ugggy! It was so cute. I just hope he doesn't associate the mask with grandpa from now on. We really missed Nichole, Briley, Jenn, Vanah, and Landon. It was not the same without you!!!!!

I took Braedon to the CA Harvest Carnival... to see everyone that I never see and to enter Braedon in the contest. Well I saw everyone alright... I can also count on my hands who spoke even if I spoke to them.... BUt that is besides the point.... Braedon was precious and so were all the other little people. Braedon won Funniest this year. I think he won Cutest last year but I can't remember. Anyway he was so cute and funny! BUT according to some he only one because he climbed on the hay... well whatever works! I didn't care if he won or not.... I did it for the fun of it Then Braedon played the games. He had a blast!!!!! Enjoy the pics!

Catching up

2010-11-03T18:32:00.003-05:00

I have not blogged in a long long LONG time. I just seems like there are more important things to do. Not to mention I have a two year old that does not even like for me to walk to the computer room. People say that I could do it when he is asleep but most of the time I beat him to sleep. I know that sounds terrible but he is locked in the room in the bed with me so if he moves I wake up. Yes, he still sleeps in the bed with me when John is gone and in his bed when John is home. It works for me. I know everyones thoughts on this and frankly, its none of anyone elses' business so therefore if it don't bother me, it shouldn't bother you. I love waking up to his sweet hugs and kisses on Sat and Sun and he sleeps til I drag him out of the bed on Mon- Fri.! I could complain about his little toes in my back every night and this could be why I am having a back issue NOW but I am not complaining. He will sleep in his bed if I put him in there but I don't. If I have another child within this decade, I might put him in his bed for good. If we move to a new house in the near future, I might start out putting him in his own bed but who knows. Anyway enough on that soap box! Judge me! Who cares?
Life is good. My job is fantastic although I guess its got its draw backs! SOME folks in Noxubee county love to form opinions and decide things that aren't true so in return it sucks for me sometimes! BUT I do love my job and all the people I work with. Braedon loves Miss Tammy and she is fantastic! He loves the people in his room and throws a fit when I pick him up! This is great but then again it sucks!!!! Least I know he is having fun. The next question is always "where you gonna send him to school"? Well that is two years from now..... I don't even know where I will be living. If I am still teaching a PA, he is going. If I am somewhere else, we'll just have to see.
John is doing great. He is not pilot/captain on his boat. He travels from Houston to Mobile and typically loves his job just not being gone. Deer season is starting so therefore, the marriage will be interrupted. That is ok!!! I have plenty to do.... Its the Holidays! My favorite time of year. That is my update on the family! I am going to start posting some new things and try to keep up with this as much as possible. I know some people really enjoy it! I guess I will start with the Halloween Blog next!!!!

Fort Walton Beach

2010-06-24T10:12:00.003-05:00

We went to Ft. Walton Beach for our first vacation as a family. Braedon and I went last year but this year Johnathan joined us. We were suppose to go to Orange Beach but at the last minute we cancelled our trip and went to Fl due to the oil situation. It was beautiful and of course Braedon loved every minute of it. He did have a slight issue with his teeth and a little fever but he got over it. We left home with 5 teeth and came back with 9!!! He really loved all the water although at first he didn't like the sand sticking to him but once he got used to it he was fine. THANK GOODNESS. Unfortunately Braedon has NO fear of the water. I say unfortunately because I have now seen the dangers of it. If he has a little fear I think it would be safer than none at all. He is now wearing floaties at all times or rather he says "fish". He can go and do as he pleases around any water and get around semi good....It is amazing to see him to the things that he has been doing in the water. If I really pushed I could have him swimming! Anyway that is all our news for now. We are just being lazy bums all summer. My 10 year class reunion is in July, so I am busy with that but that is about it!! Hope all is well with everyone!!!!

Summer Time

2010-06-08T08:58:00.002-05:00

We have been enjoying summer for sure. We are either at the lake or the pool daily and thank goodness Braedon loves the water like his mama. We were lucky to have Johnathan home with us my first week off for summer and Memorial Weekend. We did our best to enjoy every minute of. Braedon has NO fear of the water which is great but can be very scary at times. He does his own thing at the lake but someone has to constantly be right with him because he screams when we put on a life jacket or anything with that sort of support... Guess he is again like his mama cause I can't stand them either. Well anyway... he is so in love with Shrek that I came upon some Shrek floaties... He kept them on and seemed to do pretty good with them although he was not so certain with himself. This past weekend I finally found some blue SMALL fabric floaties... He loves them too because they have fish on them. He keeps them on the entire time and can now do as he pleases around bodies of water... Praise the Lord!!! It was getting scary being around water with Mr. Independent. He will slide down the slide and has jumped off the diving board several times... Next week we are going to the beach... I guess to play in the oil but we are sure to have a good time!!! Hopefully Braedon will love that as well.

Easter and Mother's Day

2010-05-16T09:34:00.004-05:00

Well its been quiet a while since I posted anything to my blog so I am doing a little catch up. Of course I am not going very far back but I am posting recent events. Braedon is now 20 months well almost and its hard to believe he will be two before long. He is a loving sweet child most of the time but he can be bad and mean as the devil when he wants to be. He can repeat anything you ask to as long as you have his attention. He is wild and wide open 100% of the time. If he is sititng around or not moving, that means something is wrong with him. This is my cue to go to the dr. Our last dr visit was on account of fever that shot up... I immediately assumed ear infection because that is all that I thought it could be due to no other symthoms... BOY was I wrong. Dr Watson couldn't find anything wrong until he looked at ant bites on Braedon's feet. One had gotten infected and it had to be lanced. I was thinking oh my word how am I going to handle this one!!! Well all went great. Braedon watched Dr. Watson's every move and never did flinch!!! I on the other hand would have been screaming. Well he drained it all and since it was still oozing he had to bandage it. Well boy the fit start then. Braedon started kicking and SCREAMING like we were strangling him just because of a band aid... He hates band-aids but this was his first fit about one to this extreme!!!! Anyhow we had to be put on strong meds for 10 days but we are fine now. Except still no band-aids.

John was not here for Easter. We went to church and then to Mawmaw's for lunch then to Grandma's for supper. It was all fantastic but it was not for a dieter's diet. I am sure most have heard or seen it on facebook that I decided to go to Weight Watchers with Carrie Franks back in January. I have done it before and did great... then I got pregnant. But anyhow we have both done fantastic... Although I could be doing better. The first 30 fell off and now it is just harder but it is harder because I have not done EXACTLY what I should be doing. Life keeps getting in the way and of course the week John is home it is not easy but I am back on track now....I have lost almost 35 pounds and I am shooting for about 10 more!! We will see if I make it.

John was home Mother's Day and it was fantastic. We spent the Tuesday night before Mother's Day at Pat's house because both boys were home from work. Then Sunday we went to Pepper's and met mama and Grandma for lunch. It was great too.... Even better than normal because no one had to cook and no one had to clean up. I am posting pics of the family at Easter and then the entire family on Mother's Day!!!

2010-05-15T11:58:00.001-05:00

We did a photo session with the fantabulous photographer, Julianna Persons. She did a great job. Braedon's face would break out the morning we were suppose to do this but we did it anyway. These are Braedon's 18 month old pictures! These are just a few of my favorite shots. All of them were fantastic. Thanks Jules... We Love You!!!!

Christmas Pictures

2009-12-06T19:26:00.002-06:00

We attempted to take pictures in front of the tree... some turned out pretty cute but I could have really hurt him at times. Our newest trick is standing on top of the four wheeler and the rocking horse (while rocking of course) so its a lot of fun. I hope everyone is having a great Holiday season. Good luck on all the shopping. Enjoy the pictures.

Thanksgiving Cake

2009-12-06T19:18:00.002-06:00

I was baking a cake for Thanksgiving lunch at school after Braedon went to bed of course. Well somehow in the middle of doing it he woke up and John brought him in there and sat in on the counter. Praise the Lord I was finished icing the cake cause as you can see Braedon enjoyed the icing.

Fall

2009-10-25T18:50:00.004-05:00

Bradley, Haley, Me, and John

Braedon's 1st Carasail Ride in Birmingham

The Wedding

Presents

Ole Man and Braedon

John's First Deer for 2009

Tractor Ride

Cotton Truck

Fall is finally here and we are really enjoying it. We have had a busy busy October but we are doing great. Busy lives means their are people in your life that are worth being busy for. We celebrated Braedon's 1st birthday on the 24th of September... it is so hard to believe this baby is one. He has grown so so much and he is now a busy body. He has also changed looks. He is blonde headed now and people say he is eat up with Presley. There are some looks that he can give where he is is Daddy's child but yes he looks like Michael and Jacob a lot. He has two teeth now and will eat anything that does not eat him first. We had his party on the 25th of September at the Legion Hut due to rain. We had a good turn out and we appreciate all the wonderful gifts and everyone that attended. Thank you so much.

The next weekend we celebrated with Maggie Lindley at her birthday party at Mrs. Mary Anne's house... They kids had so much fun.. Happy Birthday Maggie... We love you!The Next weekend we celebrated Miss Lilli Kat's birthday with her at Mrs. Lisa's house in Brooksville. Braedon was a little ill but Miss Lilli sure did love on him... Sorry we had to leave early. Happy Birthday Miss Lilli... We love you.

The next weekend on the 16th -18th... we had a big weekend. On the 16th we went on to Circle M to hang out with Cate and Heath King before their big day. We had a great time and everyone enjoyed catching up. All Johnathan's friends are like brothers to me and I really enjoy seeing them when they are acting appropriatly!!!! Everyone is married now... except Bradley... Who knows with him!!!! On the 17th we went to Bailey Bug's birthday party and Braedon had a big time. I hate these two don't get into mischief together like they used too..> happy birthday Bailey Bug... We love you... That afternoon we went to the wedding in the freezing cold. Braedon spent the night with Granny for the 2nd time in his life. He was fine but I would have slept better with him in the house. We had a great time at the wedding... Congratulations Heath and Cate... We love you!!!! ON the 18th, I woke up and went to Miss Laurel Greer's Christening at Cooksville Methodist. She was so so beautiful in her gown but she hated the dress just like her Aunt Chele hates dresses so I held her the entire time until she had to be disrupted to go up front... Congratulations Carrie, Jeff, Layla and Laurel. She is beautiful and I am so glad that she loves ME... I love her just as much. That afternoon Braedon and I went to Starkville to celebrate Allie Grace Williams and Savanah's Birthday. Braedon ate up some attention and had blast. Cat and Billy's house is gorgeous. AG got her a barbie jeep and Braedon loved loved the thing. We will have to go back and ride one day. Happy Birthday girls... We love ya'll John also killed his first deer with his bow for the season on the 18th... we are so proud of him!!!

This weekend we were busy to. We went to CA's homecoming festivities... Alex Dawkins won queen... Congrats Alex... We love you!!!! We also went to Grandma's to eat cake for Miss SHelby's birthday and had a wonderful supper. Happy Birthday Shelby... We love you!!!
We also took Braedon to the pumpkin patch and he had the time of his life doing EVERYTHING. He loved it all but he really liked chasing around Allie Grace... Thanks Cat for snapping a few shots of Mr. Braedon. I will post some pics of all the festivities of the month. Happy Halloween everyone!!!! LOok forward to seeing the Class of 2000 girls this weekend!!!!

Update on the Banks Family

2009-09-26T20:23:00.003-05:00

These are our first year pictures.

Well I don't know where to start. It has been so long since I blogged anything. I will just go through the months.

August... Braedon and I both started at a new school. We both absolutely love it. He cries when I pick him up instead of when I drop him off he loves it so much. He loves his new teacher, Miss Tammy. He has been to a PA pep rally and danced along with the beat of the band. (This is our new thing... dance dance dance.) I love Pickens Academy just as much. I still support my CA Vikings every chance I get but PA is a great place to teach. I have 26 students in my class and they are all just precious. John had a birthday this month. He turned 28 years old... He is getting old. We also went to Landon's party this month. Braedon had fun. Of course he has fun wherever he goes.

September.... This month has been a busy one. We have been busy busy with school. Braedon went to his 2 football game. (He went to his first when he was 2 and half weeks old) He just watched the boys on the field and got everyone's attention. We also lost two important people in our family. Uncle Sam Vernon passed away and Aunt Nancy Gerhart (2 different sides). They will surely be missed but we know they are both in a better place because they were both so sick. I went to CA ballgame on the 21st. I thank God everyday that I went this ballgame. The Vikings did fantastic but they lost one of their seniors, Hunter Campbell. I am sure everyone knows he is my "heart". I remember when that baby was Braedon's age. I saw him play his first game and unfortunately I have seen him play his last. I pray that he is out of the hospital for good but he still needs prayer. Please remember him and his family. I LOVE YOU HUNTER CAMPBELL... Braedon also had a birthday this month. On September 25th by baby turned 1. This is so hard to believe but he did. Time flies by so quickly. I think back to that song, Don't Blink. It is so true. We had his party tonight, September 26th. He has so much fun and got so much stuff. John said some of this stuff needs to go in the attic and we can bring it back out at Christmas... (he has lost him mind) This baby is fixing to think its Christmas cause he has so much to play with this week. I hope I have caught everyone up to date. Maybe I can keep it up to date now that I am caught up. We have our 1 year appt Friday so I will try and update everyone then. Have a great weekend.

Banks Update

2009-08-07T20:52:00.005-05:00

Felix's on the way home

Daddy and Johnathan playing arcade

Loving the little pool we had

Best baby sitter ever... Savanah and Braedon.

We love you Vanah, so happy you were with us

Running away from pictures

First time seeing the ocean

Well it's been a while since I updated my blog. I have been busy busy trying to get ready for school. I am ready for my little 4th graders but its already way different than high school. WAY more lesson plans, getting room decorated, and getting to know the new people I will be working with. They are all wonderful wonderful people and go out of their way to try and help me. It has also been great seeing Coach White and Michele. I am sure this will be an interesting year with Michele Banks and Brach White back under the same roof!!!! I start Monday and the kids start Wednesday. Please remember me in your prayers. I am not really worried about the meeting new people part or the kids but leaving Braedon is not going to be easy. He is staying with a lady over there that has a daycare in her home and she is super sweet but I still gotta leave him. It was hard telling everyone bye at Tender Years last Friday but I managed to keep it together. I love each and every one of those children almost like my own and I miss them everyday. They are all lucky and are still staying together with the same day care workers. SO they don't know how good they got it. But I have chose my path with much prayer and thoughts and think I have made the right decision. So I am not going to harp on my feelings about any of that any longer.

We went to the beach this past week. BOY WAS IT A TRIP. Braedon had the time of his life. I am so glad I took him at this age. It was just wonderful hearing his giggles and watching his eyes light up every time we walked toward the ocean. He loved the sand, loved the water, and was a great great baby the entire time. I will say this. My trip to the beach was nothing like it used to be. I almost need a vacation to get over my vacation. Praise the Lord Jenn Jenn let the Savanah stay with us. OH my word, she was a God send. She is the best little baby sitter. Don't get me wrong!! Mama and Jacob and Amber were a lot of help but Savanah was wonderful. Johnathan came down Sunday night and surprised us and spent the night. He took me, Braedon, and Savanah to Bubba's to eat and then to Adventure Island for the "kids" to play arcade. The "kids" had a blast too. We went to the Hangout as well and it is great for anyone with children. I will post some pictures for everyone to see. There are not very many family pictures cause we took a pile of them the week before thanks to Catherine. She did a great job. Maybe one day I will post some of them when I can figure out how to do it like Cat said I could. Anyway have a great weekend everyone. All pictures from the beach are on facebook for those that are friends with me.

Long Time.. Happy Birthday Carrie Franks

2009-07-28T14:18:00.003-05:00

So it's been a long time since I have blogged. I have a little busy body on my hands these days and I do not have time to sit down and type. We have also been a busy little family. John came home this past Tuesday PRAISE GOD because we he got home and got settled, mama called and was on her way with Jacob to the ER. I immediately headed to West Point when mama called back to let me know it was something just didn't know what. Well we found out it was Appendix and he had surgery the following morning. Jacob did not do so well immediately following surgery because he wouldn't really eat which meant he threw up his pain meds and it was just a slow go at first. Now he seems to be doing a lot better; he just has a long way to go before he will be back to Jacob. Please keep praying for him and mama too!!! We had family pictures done Thursday night and Catherine Williams did a FANTASTIC job. Every picture is great. I have a very hard decision to make. If I am lucky maybe she will let me post some of my favorites on here!!! We'll see. Even Johnathan was impressed! Thanks Cat!!!! John worked a lot while he was home but we did get to see a lot of him. Saturday we spent the entire day at the lake with Jimbo, Jenn Jenn, Landon, and Isaiah Conner. Savanah was at the coast with a friend. John came by and the boys played football all afternoon and we just hung out. It was great. Saturday night, Johnathan and I had "date" night alone. Granny kept Braedon cause Grandma was down. It was enjoyable. The rest of the weekend was laid back and rainy. John let me take a 3.5 hour nap Sunday and he cooked supper so that was WONDERFUL. He has gone back to work now so he is well missed. This is Tender Years last week to be open which is sad. Central Academy is taken on the day care starting next week. We leave for the beach Saturday which is great. Carrie Franks birthday is also Saturday so HAPPY BIRTHDAY CARRIE.... WE LOVE YOU!!!!
I have taken the 4th grade teaching position at Picken's Academy in Carrolton, Al. This was an extremely difficult decision for me and John to make but its made. I am excited, overwhelmed, and nervous, but I think I will be fine.... I know my favorite Coach and his wife will take great care of us. Braedon will be going to a local daycare over there too. I am not thrilled at all about being away from him but I think I will make it. I will let everyone know how that goes but I am sure my heart will be broken. 1st time to work away from him. Pray for me. Johnathan takes his final class to be a river boat captain on August 17th. I ask everyone to remember him in your prayers as well. This is great and means great things for our family but it is also sad because we both know he will never be able to come home and make the money he is about to be making.
I ALMOST FORGOT... BRAEDON IS OFFICIALLY WALKING. I cannot believe it but he is walking more than crawling now. He is a little wobbly but he can do it. My baby is growing up. Have a great week everyone.

2009-07-07T21:57:00.002-05:00

Busy week

2009-07-06T10:23:00.003-05:00

We have had a terrible, great, fun week and weekend. The week started off really really bad. As most of ya'll have already heard, I had to give out the terrible letters Wednesday to let everyone know that Tender Years will be closing their doors July 31st. It is just terrible. The committee decided the devastating news Sunday night and the parents all found out on Wednesday. We just don't have enough children to pay salaries, taxes, buy groceries, and keep it running on a day to day basis. It makes a hard ship for everyone (including myself) in this county. Everyone is growing up and leaving the county which means the kids are going with them. Which is wonderful for the families but sad for the county. I hope and pray that Central Academy can hold out and make it in the future. Tender Years closing means I also lose my job which is terrible. Granted I do have my education to fall back on and go back to teaching but unfortunately most of these positions have already been filled. But good news on the horizon.... I have a job interview at Mississippi State Univ. today at 3:30 and I pray it goes well. It is at the child development center on campus working with infants which would be wonderful if the pay is right. Please pray for me and my family. Hopefully something will come along soon. I have always said if one door closes, another one will open... but as my friend, Becky Syfrett said, sometimes it is hell in the hallway!!!!
John has been home this week. First time is 6 years that he has been home on the 4th. We had a pretty decent week. He fished a few days, hunted one day then his dogs got hurt, went to lake ALL DAY, and went to the river on Sunday. YEA he spent some time with us in there as well; we've just been busy. We spent the 4Th with family and friends. We went to Mawmaw's for lunch and the entire family made it so we took family pictures. I will post them asap. We then went to the lake where we saw lots of friends and even more family. Braedon had a big day and enjoyed every minute of it. He really loves going to eat at Mawmaw's cause he never knows what he might get to eat. This week he ate corn on the cob and he loved it... NO TEETH... He just gummed it. So cute. Yesterday John went to the river and Braedon and I went shopping... Braedon got new shoes and I got a few new wardrobe pieces. Last night we went to eat at the Banks house and enjoyed visiting with them. This week will be a long one. John is leaving tonight some time and I have a meeting at CA, I will be awaiting news from the interview, and Savanah and Landon have allstar games at the same time in two different locations so the week should be interesting. Have a great week everyone... I will post all the pictures soon.

9 Months Old

2009-06-22T21:28:00.002-05:00

Can't believe it. My baby is 9 months old. He is so full of personality and life that it amazes me sometimes. Braedon is even mean sometimes. His newest thing is "fake" crying. He throws his head back and makes a face and makes a crying a sound. We can't help but laugh at him when he does this. It is really pathetic though. Braedon is crawling (really crawling like normal children no more army crawling), pulling up on everything, he can pat-a-cake, say bye bye and wave (although its backwards; he is waving to himself), and sometimes it sounds like he says YAY when he is clapping. He is into EVERYTHING and he is super quick. He even took 2 steps to my daddy who we have been calling "ole man". I guess he is just short of walking.
It has been a long few weeks. IT IS HOT for one and I hate hot although it means pool time. Pool time is not what it used to be. It used to mean grabbing a towel, maybe a drink, and some oil and head to the pool or lake and relaxing for the day. NOW its pack up the house, rub baby down in sunscreen, load the car with everything from the house, and head to the pool or lake where you never even get to sit down or relax for even a minute. Its not as much fun as it used to be BUT then again its wonderful having a little one.
Friday, June 19, 2009 Laurel Greer Franks was born in Columbus. She weighed 7 lbs 6 oz and has a head full of dark black hair. She is beautiful. Congratulations to Carrie, Jeff, and Layla...
Saturday Braedon and I went to Baby shower for Morgan and Mary Milton. We got to see lots of old friends and their children. We hate Mackinzie and Macki didn't make it and we hope they are all better soon. We had a blast and Morgan looks GREAT pregnant. I will post pics soon of the babies.
Sunday was Father's Day and unfortunately Johnathan had to work but we did get to see my daddy and Pawpaw Presley. We had a great lunch at Mawmaw's and of course Braedon loves Mawmaw lunches cause he gets to eat EVERYTHING IN SIGHT. I hope all the Father's had a great day Sunday.
Today we went to the dr for follow up check up with Braedon's breathing. We have been to the dr like every week for about 6 weeks due to his wheezing and coughing. Last week it got really bad and I got worried so I ran him up there Thursday. He was put on treatments 4 times a day which was awful and I was told that if he was not better today, we would be hospitalized. WELL PRAISE THE LORD WE GOT WONDERFUL CHECKUP. He said his lungs sounded great. SInce we were there, I asked him if we could go ahead and get his 9 month check up out of the way since I was suppose to have an appt next week but I really didn't want to go back next week. Thank Goodness he said yes. We got a wonderful check up, had a great visit, got a shot (Braedon didn't even whimper), and was told he'd see us at 12 months. Let's hope so; but I am guessing he will see us before hand knowing my luck.
We want to say CONGRATS to our wonderful "extended family", Landon and Savanah Stapleton for making all stars. Can't wait to see them play in the coming weeks. We love ya'll and good luck.
Anyway that is all for now. We are looking forward to a great 4th with Johnathan.

Almost 9 months

2009-06-16T07:52:00.002-05:00

Can't believe it; time does fly. Braedon will be 9 months old next week and it seems like it was just yesterday I was still pregnant. He is doing so much now. Crawling like a normal child... no more army man, pulling up on everything, standing alone, walking behind anything that will move, he can wave and attempt to say bye bye, he has da da down pat, and he can pat-a-cake. Matter of fact when he gets in trouble or is told NO he turns around and smiles at you and claps like he is proud of himself or something. His little hand has been even been popped numerous time but he goes on and does it anyway and grins while doing it. He don't understand that concept yet. We still have no teeth but they are right on the surface. Guess they will all come in at the same time. We do have lots of bruises everywhere; he is a rough child or rather I say a true little boy. We have still been going to the lake or the pool a lot. He loves it; its just not as relaxing to me as it used to be. It's more of a workout kinda like church now. Anyway no more major news. I will try to have an update and pictures next week for his 9 month milestone. Hope everyone has a great week!!!!

New Week

2009-06-08T09:25:00.001-05:00

Nothing much as been going on in my world so I have not posted much on here. Just work and Braedon which is a job in itself. We have been to the pool or the lake the last few weekends and he loves it. He either eats the sand or drinks the water so it's all good. I am having a hamburger supper at daycare this week so I will busy busy all week long. Johnathan will be home tomorrow and he will be cooking the hamburgers so since we will be at the church maybe we won't kill one another. I also had another ortho appt. I now go next Tuesday to the oral surgeon to discuss cutting out my wisdom teeth, removing two baby teeth and placing buttons on two impacted teeth in the top of my mouth... OH WHAT FUN! Anyway I have no news for now. We are still patiently waiting on Laurel Greer Franks... hopefully soon but for sure by the 23rd of this month. Anyhow got to run to the dreaded grocery store. Have a great week everyone!!!!

Our Summer Fun

2009-05-28T11:04:00.003-05:00

Braedon in the BIG freezing swimming pool.
Him in his little pool... eyeing the big pool

Playing with Granny

Driving Daddy's boat.... life jacket was beside Johnathan...we never cut the moter on so he was not in it... but he will be from now on

Big boy with big boy cup

He loves his daddy!!!!

He knew that was water!!!! He got to it fast too...

Headed straight to the water!!!!

Adorable little Toot!!!

Well we had a great Memorial weekend and John was home which made it even better. It has been a while since I posted anything but I am just going to pick up on Memorial weekend. It was of course rainy and nasty but we had a good time anyway. We took Braedon riding in the boat for the first time Friday and he had a blast. He loved driving!!! That is until he realized we were on water and then he through a fit cause he couldn't get in it. HE LOVES HIM SO WATER!!!!Friday night we went to eat the famous La Fiesta in Macon. I was the mom that had my baby in the bar part of the restuarant... But it was only because no one was over there and after Braedon eats he wants down. Therefore I put him down and let him play. He was fine. Saturday we were house bums. Didn't even get dressed until we had to Saturday evening but I am not real sure why we did cause we didn't go anywhere. Sunday John slept in for some much needed sleep and then I fell back asleep so unfortunately we missed church, but we got on dressed and went to Mawmaw's for her famous Memorial day ribs, chicken, baked beans, potato salad, cake with strawberries, banana pudding, and the whole nine yards. Boy was it good. After lunch we thought it was going to storm but John went on the river without us (cause I hate the river) and Braedon and I went to the pool for the first time. The water was really to cold for him to get in or so I thought it was but we had his baby pool that he played and played in forever. He did finally notice the big pool and just had to touch it. We let him play around in it for a minute but like I said it was like ICE. Sunday night we went back to Mawmaw's cause it was SOOO good the first time and ate again. Monday we were pretty much lazy too... it rained. Johnathan and Bradley fished in a fishing tournament (came in 5th place) from sunrise to lunch so Braedon and I slept in. When John got back we went to Columbus shopping for a rug for the living room but had no luck. Braedon was an angel on this trip... Never fussed once and we were in and out the whole afternoon. We also saw something we really needed....a new shitzu but we only looked and played... it won't be long though cause I really want another one. We had supper with the Pat and Bubba Monday night and got to visit with Jayden, Ty, Sherron, and Heather. Braedon had a big time. Food was wonderful of course. John got great news... he got to stay home an extra day... YAY for him. SO THEREFORE he got to go to one more fishing tournament (that makes 3 in one weeks time). He and Bradley fished again Tuesday night (didn't place) so Braedon and I went visiting. We took Carrie Franks a swing and a bouncy seat and Braedon played with Layla for a while... we are patiently waiting on Miss Laurel Greer. Then we stopped back by the Stapleton's to visit with them a minute. We got home just in time to fix supper before John walked in the door about 9:45. He had to get his stuff together for he was leaving the next morning. Wednesday was a fantastic day... yeah right. We went back to the dr for Braedon's follow up appt for his ears.... they were all cleared up PRAISE GOD but unfortunately the doc heard Braedon wheezing so he had to check all that out and now we are on breathing treatments... not sure if it is asthma or allergies or just something weird. We'll soon see. We go back on July 2nd for the 9 month check up. Which is hard to believe!!! Time Flies!!!! I took Braedon to the lake for the first time to the swimming area Wedneday night... boy was it interesting. I didn't put on a swim suit and he was in clothes because we were just going to see Granny, Jacob, Landon, and Savanah. But he had different plans. He bellied crawled on the sand straight to the water and he didn't stop when he hit water... he loved it...Anyhow that is our week right now... I will post pictures quick as I can.. Have a great week everyone....

Recent Pictures

2009-05-16T12:36:00.003-05:00

Braedon thinks he is a big boy at Santa Fe in Birmingham
He got a hold of icing on Mawmaw and Jacob's cake but I wouldn't let him eat any

Terra and Braedon

Not sure why he is naked but he of course loves it

Ole Man and Granny and Braedon

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2009-05-09T18:50:00.002-05:00

Well it's been awhile since I have posted anything on here. I guess that is what I get for making fun of Stacey at Easter. I have been really busy at work and at home. I have been being like three people at work and pulling everyone's load. My cook was forced to quit due to her arm and then I had a worker quit because she wanted to stay at home and bake cakes for a living... There fore I have been busy. I got a cook hired now and hopefully it will all be good from now on.

Braedon is now 7 months old almost 8 in a week or so... It's amazing how time flies. He is crawling, pulling up to a standing position, and is into EVERYTHING. No Nichole my house is not completely child proof but I am working on it. He started saying DADADADA all the time now and John has heard him. Just today he started mamamama probably because I correct him everytime I get the chance. He's getting so big so fast and its sad but wonderful in a way before long he will be running around. We are looking forward to the memories. Anyhow that is all I got for now. HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY TO EVERYONE.

Busy Busy Busy

2009-04-21T16:38:00.003-05:00

Well its been a while since I've had a minute to update the blog. The last two weeks have been really busy. Johnathan was home for two weeks and got to spend Easter weekend at home although it was not to much fun for him. He got the Gauet (don't know spelling) Friday evening but it didn't get bad until Saturday afternoon when he had to go to Dr. This was after we went to the egg hunt at the Crawford church where Braedon dyed him a Easter egg and went on his first egg hunt. Boy was it fun but it was also freezing. Saturday afternoon we went to see Nichole and Briley at Gram's house where we had another Mommy and Me day with lots of friends from our class. It was great to see everyone and to see how much they have all grown. We even got to meet Miss Mackinzie who is precious. We really enjoyed seeing everyone again and can't wait til summer to do it again. Braedon got to spend the day with all his little buddies plus one of his favorites, Savanah. She is such wonderful help...she stayed with us til later Saturday night and we REALLY enjoyed having her. Can't wait to do it again. Sunday we went to church (John on crutches) and then went to Mawmaw's to eat lunch with everyone. We were so happy John got to join us and believe it or not everyone was at Mawmaw's for the 1st time in forever (except "Aunt" Leslie she had plans with her family) But we had fun. Sunday night when it got bad I decided to ride back out and visit with Briley and Nichole before they left. The boys were great and I really enjoyed catching up. John was suppose to go back to work Tuesday but he still couldn't walk so he stayed home with us an extra week and Braedon really enjoyed it. He just lights up and is all smiles when he sees his daddy. He is even saying Da Da although I claim he don't know what he is saying. We really didn't do to much this week. I helped the Juniors with Prom as much as I Could and then went to walk out Saturday night. It all went great and I think everyone had a great time. Sunday I had a baby shower for Carrie Franks and baby Laurel... Can't wait to meet the little one and see her in all her cute little clothes she got Sunday. Anyhow its just been busy busy and ball is starting and I am sure we will be going to see Mr. Landon and hopefully Savanah soon play ball. I will put some pics up of our fun times the last two weeks.

Braedon's 1st Easter

2009-04-05T11:08:00.003-05:00

This week has been a long one... Braedon had the stomach virus last weekend so that was just wonderful. I never got it praise God but now I am fighting a sinus infection or maybe its allergies who knows. We didn't do much this week cause I put in more hours at daycare than I have since I started working there. It was wild. This weekend we have been busy. I took Braedon to Columbus Friday evening to buy shoes. We bought the cute little white Keds like I used to where. They are adorable. Saturday morning we went to a Sip and See at Mrs. Libby Cunningham's house that honored all the babies born within the Baptist Church lately... it include Caroline Taylor, Claudia Butler, Lydii Durham's baby, Lilli Kathryn Cade, and Jackson, Julie Cunningham's baby. It was lots and lots of kids and babies there. It was a fun day and the big kids had an Easter Egg hunt. It was great to see all those babies and kids together. After Braedon took a nap we went to eat at Macon's La Fiesta Brava with Carrie and Layla... It was pretty good. They have a few kinks to work out but hey it'll be great. They also have a bar which Macon has lacked. I am sure many folks will flock to this place when they receive their liquor license. After lunch we came and took pictures with Jacob's rabbit, Snowball. Here are a few just to see what we did... I only took like 95 pictures. They are all cute. Braedon didn't know what to think. He would pull the rabbit's ears and everything. Thank goodness it was a lazy rabbit. Jacob and Granny also got a new puppy and he loves watching it. Guess we will get a new puppy soon. That is our week and weekend in a nut shell. We have a busy week planned this week. Johnathan comes home Tuesday which is great but even better Nichole, Brent, and Briley are coming this weekend too. We are planning another get together at Nichole's mama house Saturday and I am so looking forward to seeing how much everyone has grown. It will be blast. Have a good week everyone and Happy Easter.

2009-03-29T15:53:00.002-05:00

These are all the latest pictures that I have taken lately... As you can see he is a little turkey. He has lots of toys and needs nothing. Lilli Kathryn and Jessica came by for a visit on Friday and she is growing like a weed too... Braedon was sitting up playing in his room when they got here... Lilli Kathryn just watched him while she sat in my lap... I wish Braedon would sit in my lap still like she did for just 5 minutes a day but he is just to busy. His new favorite thing is his cup. He loves his juice. He is also giving sweet kisses when you hold him up and ask him for "sugar". His granny started this trick. Anyway he is growing growing as you can see. He weighed almost 20 pounds at the dr Friday, was 26 inches long, and did great during his shots. The doctor came in after it was all over with and asked what was wrong cause Braedon was screaming... well I had to tell Dr. Watson that I was not abusing him I was just getting him dressed... he laughed and said just to let him go naked!!!! Never seen a child that hates clothes as much as he does. Anyhow have a great week everyone... Can't wait to see the little ones from the Class of 2000 Easter weekend... Hope everyone can make it.

6 months Old

2009-03-25T20:24:00.002-05:00

Well it's hard to believe my baby is 6 months old today. It seems like yesterday he was just so tiny now he is sitting up by himself, pulling himself across the floor, rolling everywhere, and attempting to get up on his hands and knees. The best thing he is doing is reaching for you when he wants you. Of course his mama is his favorite thing in the world and wants me whenever he sees me. I guess I just spoil him but hey what do I have better to do than spoil my 1st child.??? They are only little so long. WE had a great week home with Johnathan this past week and I turned 27 years old. I am getting old I guess. John and I had supper with Christy Carol and Dusty Wednesday night and it was super good especially after walking all the way to see Jenn Jenn just to find out she was at church. Thursday night we all rode to the river to see Grandma and Gerald and John and I took the boat out fishing. The boat was great I even drove it but it was cold I mean cold on that water... I will not be going back out until maybe June. Friday night Granny baby sat and John and I went to J Brousard's in Columbus to eat and it was delicious... I mean good the best!!!! We left there and went to Zachary's to meet Michael, Micah, Ellen, Brandon, Matt, and Beth to get my present from Michael. They all surprised me by having the waitress bring out cheesecake with a burning match for me to blow out (Micah said she didn't have no candles so a match had to work). It was super super sweet and I love them all for it. I guess Michael can be a wonderful brother. We all left there and went to the river walk for the Cook off they were having but John and I didn't stay long... IT WAS COLD. Saturday we went to town to by a printer with Granny and came home with a Toyota Sequoia... Boy was John shocked. I drove it all weekend and loved it but I decided not to get it. It was gorgeous and just what I wanted but I am not ready to go from 34 MPG to about 18 MPG especially with the summer coming up. We all ate supper at Michael's house while he worked on his truck and Sunday was just a lazy Sunday. After church, we went to Macon to eat lunch then we came home and Braedon and I were just lazy. I cleaned out his room and I am currently working on getting the rest done. WE had a family event we went to Monday at lunch. It was the first time I met some of Mrs. Pat's family in Scooba. We had fun visiting with them but it was a short visit cause I had to get back to work. John left Monday night and its just been us since. WE go get shots and check up Friday morning. I will update everyone on his Stats!!!! Maybe I will have pictures by then too. Have a great week!!!!!

BRILEY

2009-03-08T10:40:00.003-05:00

HAPPY BIRTHDAY TO THE BIRTHDAY BOY!!!

I CAN NOT BELIEVE THIS BABY IS ALREADY ONE. HE IS GROWING UP SO FAST. IT SEEMS LIKE YESTERDAY I WAS HEADED TO CABOOL TO SEE THAT BABY RIGHT AFTER HE WAS BORN. SATURDAY IS HIS BIRTHDAY PARTY AND REGRETTABLY BRAEDON AND I AREN'T GOING TO MAKE IT BECAUSE OF WORK AND JURY DUTY BUT WE WILL BE THINKING ABOUT HIM. HAPPY BIRTHDAY... WE LOVE YOU LITTLE MAN AND CAN 'T WAIT TO COME VISIT YOU SOON

John's week home

2009-03-05T19:26:00.005-06:00

Well our little family has had a pretty laid back week... John came home last Tuesday and we basically just took it easy all week. John is really missing Braedon when he is gone but he sure catches up quickly when he is home and Braedon just watches him with awe... Although he will not let me to far out of his site but this is with everyone... I guess he loves me A LOT and feelings are mutual. I am not sure what John and I did before he was born but it couldn't be as much fun as we are having now. John and I did go to Charity Ball last Saturday night and it was wonderful but boy was is cold. I couldn't believe it was that cold when we headed to the car at midnight. It was weird though coming home to an empty house. We even contemplated going to get him from Mama's house but I quickly decided that I wanted to sleep. It was great but the next morning I was ready to go get him... SNOW AND ALL. It was snowing on our way home from Circle M but I never imagined we would wake up to a blanket of snow covering everything. I am a terrible mom though cause I didn't take Braedon's picture in his first snow. The wind was just terrible. We went to Mawmaw's to eat then came home and Braedon and I went to bed. John took his boat out for a spin on the lake... BOY WAS HE COLD. I then woke up sick... touch of the stomach virus from day care I am guessing.... thank goodness it did not last very long. Monday was a difficult day because John always goes back on Monday nights but this one was different. He decided last minute he wasn't going which was great but then it made it even harder when he left last night. BUT he left while we were in the bed so it was not as bad as it usually is. I took Braedon to have his picture made today... JUST FOR NICHOLE!!!! I have heard several complaints that I have not had them done since he was 2 months old and I do feel back but I just don't know what my excuse is. I didn't take too many though cause I am planning on doing some closer to April if he is sitting up completely on his own. Anyway have a great week... We also want to say CONGRATS to Ashia... We are excited!!!!!

5 Month Old

2009-02-27T18:11:00.003-06:00

He was trying his best to wake his daddy up and as you can see he succeeded!!!

These are just a few of the pictures that the munchkin has taken over the last few days!!! He growing growing growing. He's a little fat cat. Sometime he looks like his daddy and on occasions he looks like me. In the picture with him smiling with the hat on he even looks just like Michael's baby pictures. SO he is a mix of all of us!!!!

BUSY BUSY BUSY

2009-02-24T14:12:00.002-06:00

Well I have not been blogging much lately. I have been busy at work and home. I have been the cook at Tender Years since we lost Judy but I have finally hired someone that I hope will fill her shoes as much as possible. Please pray for the lady; she needs it to put up with us sometimes. My workers seem to keep me going when my days get real terrible. They are always a hoot and got something new going. We have had a busy two weeks. My favorite little man spent the night with us Friday night, Landon. He was wonderful. He and I watched movies all night until he told me that he was ready to go bed. At first he wanted Braedon to sleep in the middle but then he told me that I had to sleep between them. I did it for as long as I could then I moved Braedon back to the middle. Thank goodness there was no tossing and turning. We really had a blast. Thursday night Jen Jen got to keep Braedon for the first time. SHE CLAIMS that he was wonderful and I hope he was good for them. Thanks Jenn... I know you will always be there when I need you. There has not much else been going on outside of work. Can't believe Braedon is already 5 months old. It is just hard to believe how time flies. I will have to take new pictures this week while John is home and I will post them. Nichole has been on my head about having his pictures taken. I guess I am a terrible mother because I have only had his pictures done once. I keep saying I am going but something always comes up. I will for sure be doing them asap. Braedon is now chowing down on some cereal and fruit. HE love pears and applesauce and he likes peaches but not as much. I plan on starting him on vegetables this week while his daddy is home. He is a great eater and I am sure he will eat anything that is put in front of him.
BRAEDON IS GOING TO SPEND THE NIGHT AWAY FROM HOME FOR THE FIRST TIME SATURDAY NIGHT. John and I have decided to go to Charity Ball this year since he is home. Braedon is going to spend the night with Granny. SO everyone please keep mama in your thoughts. She has told me that I have got to pick him up before church Sunday cause she can't handle him and her that morning. We'll see though. I am sure I will be there asap to get him. I am looking forward to a whole night's sleep though. Any way that is our lives in a nut shell right now. This week will surely be interesting and busy and I will fill everyone in as soon as I can. Happy Fat Tuesday to everyone... have a great day.

Our Friend, Judy

2009-02-15T10:05:00.003-06:00

As I am sure everyone has heard about the husband killing his wife, Judy, himself, and shooting his son on Friday in Macon. Judy was an employee at Tender Years. She was the best human being one could ever meet. If there was a good person in this world, she was it. The kids loved her and she adored each and every one of them. She has been working at Tender Years for nearly 7 years. Any child that has come through Tender Years during that time has gotten to know Judy very well. She as a great friend and she never had any thing negative to say without something positive to back it up. Judy kept Tender Years going while Mrs. Betty was sick and in the hospital and while I was out of bed rest and maternity leave. I have no idea what I would have done without her and I am at a loss at what we are going to do without her now. Tender Years has suffered a horrendous loss. Please continue to keep her son, Henry, in your prayers. He is still in Columbus hospital and I have no idea how substantial his wounds are but I know his heart has got to be aching. He will have to live with what he saw for the rest of his life. Also please keep all the families in your prayers as well as her Tender Years family. This week will be hard on all the workers and even the poor children that will know JU JU is gone forever.
We Will Miss Her Greatly.

HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY

2009-02-13T11:05:00.002-06:00

Well it has been a while since I posted anything. We have just been busy. Last week John was home and we had a wonderful week. He cannot believe how much Braedon has grown every time he comes home. The child will be crawling before long I do believe. He is just real busy busy and loves to me on his belly moving around. We had a long weekend last weekend. Friday night John and I had a little alone time and ran to Caledonia and then ate a La Fiesta. Then we did the wal-mart thing. Thanks Granny for watching Braedon. Saturday we were lazy all day but we had a big night. John's class is planning their class reunion and we had Dusty and Christy Carol Jourdan, Julie, Justin and Hannah Moffett, Duke Barnett, Anna, Jeff, and Bailey Harrell, Mark and Nikki Kesler, Bradley Beard, Heath King, and Kate, his fiance all over for supper. They had their discussion but nothing NOTHING was settled. If there is anyone from the Class of 2000 we need to start planning RIGHT NOW. Anyway maybe the BOYS will pull it all together before June. Sunday we had a wonderful wonderful family day. John, Braedon, and I went to Tupelo to the Boat and RV show and to the mall shopping. We have decided that we need a NEW camper and boat to have as Braedon and future children grow up. We went to the mall and bought Braedon some adorable New Balance tennis shoes cause I am sick of the sock look. They are just so cute. John did wonderful picking them out. Monday John left again and we are really missing him. He is going up the Mississippi River this time and he is somewhere in Illinois. Braedon had a trip to the Dr Wednesday. His fever spiked Tuesday night and we got up and headed the Dr. He has a red ear and is teething. IT HAS BEEN HORRIBLE HORRIBLE. He has fussed more the last two days than he has fussed in his lifetime. Thank God or Praise God he is back to himself today. I have had to hold him while he slept and he wouldn't take a bottle. I do not see how single mothers handle life sometimes. I am not a single mom but I have to handle most stuff alone. But keep us in your prayers that we continue getting better. I gotta run. I am at work. We have a busy weekend planned but I will post pictures of everything soon. Have a great weekend and HAPPY VALENTINE'S DAY!!!

Early Morning Visitors

2009-01-31T15:21:00.003-06:00

Well we finally stole some of Landon and Savanah's time last Friday morning. We had to send Jenn Jenn to Nashville to steal her children away. They came over early and Braedon and I took them to school. Even though it was early in the morning everyone was in great moods. I think this is the first official picture of all "my" "adopted" children. Jenn would have died when Landon and Braedon were "wrestling" and rolling in the bed but it didn't bother Braedon. He just grinned. He might as well get used to it I would imagine. SOOO glad we got a chance to spend a little time with the Stapleton kids even though it wasn't very long.... Look forward to spending lots more. We love you Savanah and Landon....

Braedon's new favorite thing is his "Jumper". He just grins and grins. My doors are way too tall and wide so there are only a few places we can use it... Have a great weekend everyone...

4 Month Check up

2009-01-28T21:06:00.003-06:00

We got a wonderful report today. Dr. Watson said Braedon is the happiest baby he has ever seen. He just lit up at everyone that saw him today. SO far he has not met a stranger which is good I guess. He weighs 15 pounds and is nearly 25 inches long. Doc said he is growing beautifully. The shots did not bother the little booger. He winced at the 2nd one because it burned I guess but that was it. He is already so much tougher than he mama and daddy.
WE have had a busy week. Savanah got to come home with us on Monday. We were so glad to see her. It had been a while. Maybe Landon will get to come next time. We are all praying for Savanah's Papa, Randy Stapleton. We know he will be home soon but he needs everyone's prayers. His heart is not in rhythm and he has a few infections such as bronchitis and a touch of pneumonia. We are also praying for our Uncle Danny Ray Presley. He is currently working in Mobile and had to be rushed to the ER Tuesday where they performed and emergency Catherization due to his chest pains. Well he had had a heart attack and his main artery was blocked so they inserted a stint. Please keep him in your prayers as well.
Johnathan's Great Uncle Jim Thompson passed away Monday night as well. I didn't know him but I know his mama really well as well as his wife. Please keep his family in your prayers. It was not a surprise they all knew it was coming but it is still hard on everyone. I guess this is my update for now...On THE LIGHTER SIDE... CONGRATULATION TO CARRIE, JEFF, AND LAYLA THEY WILL WELCOME ANOTHER GIRL IN JULY... BRAEDON SURELY NEEDED ANOTHER LITTLE GIRL FRIEND. We just can't wait. I hope everyone has a wonderful week and weekend... Stay warm.

4 Months

2009-01-24T19:21:00.007-06:00

4 MONTHS OLD JANUARY 25, 2009

We are officially attached to this little frog. I have no idea where it came from but I need to buy a new one. He does not sleep nearly as good when he does not have it!!! He does look adorable.
This is after his bath. He loves his bath but he hates getting out and then he hates getting dressed. In this picture it looks like he is about to start crawling. He is rolling over but no crawling yet... want be long though.

This is his favorite part of the bath. I let him lay in the tub out of his seat. He just smiles and coos. I guess I need to start teaching him how to swim!!! LOL

He was so excited. I don't know where we were going but he sure looks like he was excited to get there. Thank goodness he loves his car seat and likes to go go go cause that is all we do I think.

Well I have not updated this thing in a while. I have been busy busy. It seems like time is just flying by. It seems like yesterday I was pregnant and now my little booger is 4 months old and growing so quickly. John of course thinks he is just getting bigger and bigger everytime he comes home. It is getting so hard for John to go to work. I know he hates leaving me but now I just don't count like Braedon. I do believe it breaks his heart everytime he walks out the door. I just can't imagine. I couldn't do what he does. It ain't gonna be long until Braedon realizes he is leaving and then its just gonna be harder on all of us. Anyway it has been a busy month since Christmas. I have been back working full time and Braedon is loving day care. He just watches all the babies bigger than him and laughs at whatever they do. He has also found the tv. He loves Sponge bob and will watch it all day. I guess that the colors just catch his eyes. I hate sponge bob but no matter Braedon's mood if Spongebob is on he will just sit and watch so I gave in and I will turn it on whenever I need to do something around the house. Braedon is a very happy baby. He laughs and smiles at everything. He only seems to cry when he is hungry which of course he loves to eat anyway and would eat 24/7 if I would let him. We go get shots Wednesday and I hate to know what this little man weighs now. He is just growing growing before I realize it he will be crawling... GOT TO GET TO BABY PROOFING MY HOUSE!!! Anyway supper is ready at Granny and Ole Man's house so I better go eat. I hope everyone has a great week. I will update again this week after dr appt. Pictures are soon to come. I have to take some first. I have become the worse mama in the world and have not taken any pictures. Have a great week!!!

New Picture

2009-01-08T18:06:00.001-06:00

Addison, Nikki, Camryn, Nichole, Briley, Jessica, Lilli Kathryn, Michele, Braedon, Stacey and Maggie

Well Stacey finally sent the pictures that we took together on the Sunday before Christmas. We knew we couldn't get them with all of our cameras so we elected to use Stacey's because she is always so good at uploading pictures and getting the out to everyone. Well low and behold... she is falling a little behind this month. She has been a little overwhelmed I guess you could say with work and two kids... I can only imagine. I can barely function with 1 on some mornings. Anyway here is the group shots. As you can tell it was a lot of love flowing with all those children. I hope we can continue to get all these kids together as much as possible. It is wonderful having kids all the same age especially since we all grew up together. I just wish we all lived closer together. Next time I hope Macki's Mackinzie and of course Morgan's little one soon will be able to join us. It would be wonderful. Hope everyone has a good weekend.

Happy Happy New Year

2008-12-29T17:11:00.007-06:00

Uncle Ty finally got a picture made with Braedon... And he is actually awake!!!!

He Loves his mama the bestest of all... this of course was the high light of Christmas.

Santa's got nothing on Grandma.... Granny Jayi was proud of her bib

Braedon loves his daddy and laughed and laughed at him Christmas morning..talking about making Christmas... it was wonderful

Family picture at Mawmaw's. Braedon had to strip cause it was so hot

I'm on Santa's Nice list for at least one year... He loves his jumper but he hates hats...

This is Braedon's Uncle Michael's Look... Granny Jayi calls it his go to hell look.

Well it's over!!! It was a long wonderful Christmas week but it's over. This is the first year that I was ready for Christmas to be over with. The hussle and bussle finally got to me I guess. The decision was made BY ME that this is the last year my family will leave my house anytime on Christmas day. It's just to much and the next years will just get harder and harder with Braedon. We all had a wonderful time though, ate to much, got to much and enjoyed every minute of it. Braedon, of course, didn't know what was going on, but he got so much and we just don't have a place for it. Guess I will be finding room for everything now. I am fixing to start redoing my house I guess. Its a act of Congress to get all our stuff down but it's gotta be done. Anyway enjoy the pictures and I hope everyone has a great start to the new year.

Happy New Year,

Love

The Banks

PS... I also finally figured how to load images like everyone else so I will soon Rearrange my page if I ever have time.

Merry Christmas To All

2008-12-23T20:28:00.002-06:00

Well we have had a busy busy weekend. Sunday was our play date with Jessica, Stacey, Nikki, Nichole and all the kids. IT WAS WONDERFUL!!!! Addison, Camryn, Briley, Braedon, Maggie, and Lilli Kathryn all seemed to really enjoy themselves as well. I can't wait til we do it again and all the kids are up walking or crawling and getting into everything. My house is not child proof we did learn that. But it never will be at Christmas time. I think we need to all get together at the swimming pool this summer so they will be contained. Sunday night Braedon, Granny, and I went to see Landon and Savanah's Christmas program and it was wonderful. The kids always do a great job. Landon and Savanah both had solos and sounded wonderful. I hope they will always use their talents. Landon got to come over Monday and play with Braedon. We ended up riding to Starkville with Nichole and Briley and went to eat at Oby's. We had a great time visiting with them. We missed Savanah though and I hope she gets to come over sometime during the holidays. Braedon and I spent the day with Nichole and Briley today. We had a great time catching up and will greatly miss them until we see them again. Maybe we can get up there soon... hopefully for someone's 1st Birthday coming up soon. Johnathan is home now so I guess we will get Christmas started... it will be a long two days but I am sure we will enjoy every minute of it. I can't wait til next year when Braedon will know what is going on. He is loving all the lights this year though and getting so big. I can't believe he will be three months old on Christmas. Its amazing how time flies!!!! Well I wish everyone a wonderful holiday and I will post pictures of the playdates soon.

Love, Michele

We Wish You a Merry Christmas

2008-12-17T12:33:00.004-06:00

Happy Birthday Granny... We Love You and hope you have a great day!!!!

Life is busy busy busy these days and I have not gotten a chance to sit a take a breath lately much less get on the internet. Christmas shopping has really gotten to me this year and I just don't understand why in the world we exchange gifts any more. I say leave it for the children. I don't need anything and there is not an adult I am buying for that needed anything either. Anyway I am about done with it all THANK GOODNESS. I am looking forward to Braedon's 1st Christmas but the hussle and bussle and the deciding where we going each day is getting on my last nerve. I am looking forward to Sunday. I can't wait to see Lilli Kathryn, Maggie, Briley, and Addison. It will be a house full but it will be wonderful all being together. I am trying my best to get the house ready. I don't know why I am trying to clean it all up knowing that the kids don't care and the mama's all understand the busiest of motherhood. House work used to be a priority to me but boy has that changed. Anyway I just wanted to drop in a post while I had a chance. I am at work but I am fixing to leave. Got lots to do.

Merry Christmas to Everyone,

Love The Banks

It's Beginning to look a lot like Christmas

2008-12-11T13:22:00.005-06:00

Well it has been a long week this past week but fortunately I am slowing recupperating. I have never before thought what a parent/MOM does when she is sick but I have quickly learned that it is not about me and it does not matter how sick I am or tend to be. Last week of course we had the funeral and the killed the big deer. This weekend was long as well. John had DU so I had decided to go to the Columbus Christmas parade and then do a little shopping. Well that didn't happen. I miss the parade; but I did go to Belk and Kmart. I bought three presents at a Belk. That's it and that is about all I have bought so far. I am so lacking this year. We were back early and then had to go pick up John. Sunday my cousin's baby, Lawson, was Baptized at the church so of course all three of us got up to attend those services and made it early which is so shocking. We went to eat at Mawmaw's as well and we tried to take family pictures with me, John and Braedon and that was just plain awful. Braedon was happy as a lark until I got the camera out and then it went down hill... Needless to say I did not get a good family picture so I have no idea what I will use for the Christmas cards!!! NO THESE HAVE NOT BEEN DONE YET EITHER... MAYBE THIS WEEKEND!!!! Anyway Mama, Braedon, and I attended the Community Christmas program at 1st Baptist Sunday afternoon and it was just wonderful. ITs amazing the talent we have in Noxubee county. I was amazed at the people. Monday was a day as well... All three of us Banks woke up snuffy. Braedon ran fever but then he was fine; I had to take Johnathan back to the boat for work in Mobile and I was gone until like 3 in the morning. Thank God for Granny!!! We stayed with her and she helped a lot. Tuesday I was back at work in full swing with both of us sick. We are a little better now but the weather is not helping. It just needs to snow or quit raining. We have had enough. I had my 6 month inspection today and passed so that is over with. Now I am just trying to figure out what I am going to quickly get everyone for Christmas, how, and when I am going to get my house finished up. I am planning a little get together and I am trying to get my house clean and decorated. It is so much harder with a little one, but I don't know what I did without him. Well that is my past week and we have a even busier weekend coming up. We are to meet Braedon's Great Aunt Gentry for the 1st time Saturday night and have the Gentry Christmas Sunday so Busy Busy. Hope everyone is having the Jolliest of Days....

John is home

2008-12-03T21:25:00.003-06:00

John came home this week. Unfortunately he had to come home for a terrible reason. His Meemaw, Clyde Jones, died last Sunday night. She would have been 90 years old on the 17th of this month. We just loved Meemaw and I adored her sense of humor. We are just so thankful that she got to meet her youngest great grandchild. She just adored him the weekend we brought him home. She has been staying with her daughter, Margie, in Fairhope, Al since that weekend. We will surely miss Meemaw. I did get to meet lots of new family this week at her funeral. I have met most of the people before but it had been a long time. It was nice enjoying their company and getting to know them all a little better. John has had a terrible time this week but he did do something he has been trying to do since OCTOBER 1st. HE GOT A BUCK!!! We are thrilled for him. He has been watching this buck for months on his game camera and finally he got a shot at him this afternoon. He does not surpass all the bucks on the wall but my gut tells me, the buck will be the next one mounted. Let's pray not. This weekend is DU and we all know that is a huge night in Noxubee county. I do believe that Braedon and I will be attending his first Christmas Parade in Columbus if it is not tooo cold. Anyway I hope everyone has a good week and please keep the Jones' Family in your prayers.

Braedon's First Thanksgiving

2008-12-03T20:46:00.003-06:00

Well this year was Braedon's 1st Thanksgiving and unfortunately John was not home with us this year. Breadon and I spent lunch at Mawmaw and Pawpaw Presley's house with all the family. We missed Chad and Terra as well this year. Chad had to work and Terra was at her mother's. We all had a wonderful lunch then Braedon and I went to Columbus to Kmart and Wal mart just to get out and plus we needed dog food. We just had a peaceful day together.
Friday I enjoyed Black Friday shopping with Mrs. Carrie Franks although we did not get as much this year as we have in years past. We did do some good eating though. Braedon stayed with Granny Jayi and they went to spend the day with Grandma Billie in Caledonia. We know Grandma and Gerald really enjoyed this and Grandma tooks lots of pictures. The rest of the weekend was spent lazing around the house and at Granny's where I had to put up the Christmas tree. This year mama decided that since she was now a Grandmother that she would do colored lights on her tree so we enjoyed helping her decorate her house although I am not yet through with mine. My stuff is not outside yet and my snow baby tree is still not up. I am just so busy these days. I plan on having it all finished up this weekend... HOPEFULLY.

Our Busy Weekend

2008-11-24T16:02:00.003-06:00

Well we had a busy yet fun filled weekend! Friday Savanah came home with us from eating lunch with her at school! We all went to Mrs. Gloria Cade's house to visit with Jessica and Lily Catherine. She is just so tiny;it's hard to believe Braedon was once that small. Jen Jen came over Friday night and cooked us supper and we watched a movie. I really enjoyed spending that time with Jenn; it had been awhile since we had sat down and caught up with one another plus she got some alone time with Braedon and I think she enjoyed that as well. Saturday morning we got up early and went to Memphis to see another special friend... Nichole. Nichole had not yet gotten to see him so we went to see her plus I saw an opportunity for shopping and a road trip so we took off with Granny along for help! Braedon was fantastic. He slept all the way there. He road around in his stroller and looked and cat napped. He was an angel. He even got to meet Santa Claus for the first time. Hopefully he will always do as well as he did this year when having his pic made with Santa. I missed up though I had his Christmas outfit in the bag and forgot to put it on him!!! Oh well! We really enjoyed visiting and shopping with Nichole and can't wait to see her again at Christmas! Yesterday we didn't to much. We tried to make it to church but after I got peed on and crapped upon we made it to the door about ten minutes late and he started screaming bloody murder so I just gave up and went to mama's and sat until it was time to decorate the church and eat Brunswick stew. We went back to church and ate a wonderful meal and visited with family. We spent the day at Granny's house where I took a much needed nap while he slept and Granny took care of him when he woke up. Mawmaw and Pawpaw come and visited for a minute last night. Today, Braedon got his first set of shots. He got two in one leg and one in the other plus an oral something. He did wondefully. I was so shocked and his nurse was fantastic. She had all three shots done and finished before I could even get a pacy in his mouth and he cried just that long. He is so better than his mommy and daddy. We would still be screaming or the nurse would still be chasing us. Anyway it went great. I am sure we will have just another busy week as well. I go back to work tomorrow so pray for us. Who knows how we'll do.

Christmas and play dates

2008-11-20T14:01:00.003-06:00

Well the Christmas tree is up and decorated and I have finally started getting everything else down to decorate. My mantle is almost finished and would be finished if the lights would work on my garland but of course they did not so I have to replace them. It is amazing how much stuff I have but it is not going out this year. I am not even putting my village out this year. I guess I am now lazy. Braedon had his first "playdate" yesterday. Savanah and Landon came to spend the afternoon with us FINALLY. We had a great time and they are both so much help with Braedon. Landon even changed his diaper, dressed him, and carried him to the rocking chair BY HIMSELF. I think that is the first male that has changed Braedon's diaper. Savanah couldn't let him out do her so she took him from Landon and rocked him to sleep and when he woke up she fed him his bottle. I do believe Braedon loved the attention and I really enjoyed having them here. I will have to post pictures later. I am fixing to go to Columbus to buy everyone food... the dogs and Braedon and pick up Braedon's 1st pictures that we had taken. I also have to go price curtains because after my fiasco with the fire... the cleaning company lost Braedon's curtains so I have to replace them. If its not one thing, its another. I guess that is all that is happening in our little world for now...

Christmas Time Already???

2008-11-18T16:10:00.003-06:00

Well John is gone again unfortunately. He will be gone for two weeks this time and will be home the first week of December after Thanksgiving, Black Friday, and all my decorating moments. I just can't get into decorating like I normally do. It is just such a hassle. My tree was suppose to be put up this weekend but it is still sitting here in the box waiting on me to decide to get off my lazy tail and do it. It is just shocking that it is already Tuesday afternoon. I just don't see where the time goes. Anyway about the tree. My tree and mantle piece are always just absolutely gorgeous and they might eventually be this year. I just do not like fluffing this huge tree and if I get the thing out of the box and the lights don't work I will be fit to be tied and will probably just go get a live tree and say screw the big one. I didn't want a pre lit tree but being that it is like 10 ft high not to mention how round I could get the pre lit cheaper than buying the lights. Anyway I say every year that I am going to just do the christmas balls on the big tree and put the cutsy ornaments on another. Well maybe next year cause this year it is just going to be one. I am not up to doing two trees. That can be the one Braedon helps with next year. I also can't decide about shopping on Black Friday. I have always always loved it and wouldn't miss it for the world. I am just not there this year. Braedon would be easy enough to take but I just don't want him out and about that day. Granny Jayi has claimed she will keep him but that is just so early to leave him with someone not to mention I know mama needs her sleep and her peace. There is nothing I need to go fight the crowds for anyway cause I have no idea what in the world I am going to buy anyone at all this year. Everyone is so hard to buy for because there is no one that needs anything including myself. I have told Johnathan that I want a tri colored minature shih'tzu but I really don't that is just something else for me to take care of. I have no idea what to get Braedon... NEW MOMS... ANY SUGGESTIONS. He needs nothing at all and he will not know what is going on by any means. Anyhow I am just rambling on and on while he is sleeping. He has no cares in the world. He will get his first set of shots on Monday and I am dreading it probably because after that I have to go back to work which stinks. Fortunatetly Braedon will be right there with me but I still don't want to go back. Maybe Johnathan will quickly decide that I need to stay at home and raise kids real soon. Landon and Savanah are suppose to be coming to spend the afternoon with us tomorrow.. YAY... I am so excited. They have not been over in a long time. Hopefully we will have fun doing something. I might just save the tree for them two to put up... Maybe they will like that. Who knows what we might end up doing. This weekend I think I have officially decided that I am leaving early Saturday morning and going to spend the day in Memphis with Nichole and her family. Mama is going to ride along I hope to make it a little easier. I can't wait to see her. It seems like it has been forever and a day. Anyway that is enough of my life in the moment. Hope everyone is having a fantastic week!!!!!

Daddy's week Home

2008-11-16T15:50:00.002-06:00

Well its been a pretty decent week although it feels like it flew by. We have been busy and in the road. Braedon had his first trip to Mossy Oak shopping with his daddy and Bradley on Wednesday; Mama had to tag along though of course. I can't wait until they can just take him without it being a big hassle or better yet when Braedon is throwing a fit to go and they have to take him. They just think he is a little hard right now. I believe their adventures ALONE might soon come to an end. John and I had a little time to ourselves Saturday night while Braedon stayed at Granny Jayi's. We were suppose to go eat and to a movie but of course we didn't make it to the movies cause John took Jacob hunting and of course he killed a deer. A deer is always killed when I have plans. It never fails!!! We did get to go to Harvey's in Starkville of all places because the State/Alabama game was on. It was an exciting place to eat though cow bells were everywhere. Thank goodness we weren't there at the end. It was probably way depressing. Today was our first Thanksgiving celebration together. Matter of fact it will be our only one together because John will leave Tuesday and will not be back until the first week of December. But we are not going to complain because he actually gets Christmas off this year. PRAISE GOD!!! I would hate for him to miss Braedon's first Christmas although he will not know what is going on. We went to the Banks' house today though and Braedon slept on my chest through the entire meal. He is kinda hard to lay down. As a matter of fact he wouldn't let me lay him down to type this so he is asleep on a pillow on the floor beside me. Well here are some new pics of my little turkey. I hate he would not wake up for some. Hope everyone has a good week!!!!

Home Again

2008-11-12T13:51:00.003-06:00

We are finally home. Braedon and I moved back home Monday after two weeks of living with Granny. I sure received lots of help while we were there but I was ready to get back home. I am sure Granny was ready to send us home to although we know she misses us!!!! The smell is almost gone. There are a few scents every now and then but for the most part it is starting to smell like home again. Johnathan came home Tuesday evening; he claims the house smells like a hospital and it kinda does but even a hospital smells better than what we were smelling two weeks ago. Johnathan can't get over how much Braedon has grown in two weeks. I know he is getting big but I can't imagine going two weeks without seeing him. Thank God for internet. At least John can see pictures all the time. We know he misses us when he is gone though. Anyway just letting everyone know we are back home. Now we are getting ready for Thanksgiving and Christmas. Hopefully we can get the tree up some time this weekend so John can carry it down here. SInce I got the 10 ft tree it is to big for me to pick up. If I don't do it this weekend I have no idea when I might get to do it. Hopefully if I am up to it, we are going to see Nichole in Memphis next weekend if we figure out where we might meet up if it works out. I was going to spend the night but it is just to difficult still. Anyway hope everyone is having a decent week!!!

Home!!!

2008-11-08T21:37:00.003-06:00

Well we tried to MOVE back home today. I loaded up everything that I had at Mama's house and we went home. I unloaded, put all the clothes up, made bottles, and straightened up my mess. I then went outside to transfer the car seat base from mama's car to my car and John called. He was asking how things were going and I sat and talked to him a minute while mama had Braedon inside. I got to describing this bad taste in my mouth and how I had a small headache. I was not thinking about the facts. I did not develop this until I had been in the house about 2 hours. Well needless to say it was the paint smell that was making me sickly. Come to find out mama was feeling the same way but had not said anything because she thought it was just her. Well my wonderful husband said that if it was affecting me like that to imagine what it could be doing to him. SO WE ARE BACK AT MAMA's. I am going to give it one more night to air out and then I am going home. Some of you might not know this but I am use to two weeks alone in my own house doing as I please and just taking it easy. Well I have not been home alone for two weeks. I have not got anything done like I wanted to before I went back to work and now I am almost crazy. Don't get me wrong! I love all the help mama has been giving me and I can't wait until John gets home this time. We have lots planned to do because next time he comes home I will be back working and I am really looking forward to our time together. Not to mention Braedon needs to see his Daddy as much as possible. Anyway I have been on my soap box for a little too long I guess. I better go check on my baby. Pray for us!

I think I got it!!!

2008-11-07T22:08:00.003-06:00

Well Ihad time to work on this thing a little today. I hope all that visits enjoys the pictures and the comments about the pictures. I guess I will fill everyone in on our last two weeks. On Sunday (nearly two weeks ago) the night John was going back to work, I decided to try my hand at cooking since I have been cooking a lot lately. I was boiling chicken, Braedon was asleep in his baby bed for the 1st time and I sat down on the couch. Well I fell asleep like an idiot being as I was give out and I woke up choking on smoke in the house. I quickly went a got Braedon and by the Grace of God the child was breathing a fine. We sat outside until John got home from hunting and then we aired the house out. Well it didn't help that much and we had to get insurance involved the next morning. Meanwhile Braedon and I have been at my mother's for nearly two weeks and although I can not complain because mama is a lot of help, we are more than ready to be back home. Home is home and its a lot easier being a home with a newborn. We have had servpro had our house for the past two weeks cleaning and deodorizing and ozoning the house. It smells better but the smell is not all gone. They took all the clothes, curtains, towels, and everything washable with them to be washed... Thank goodness cause it would have been a headache doing all that with a baby. The ceilings got painted today and hopefully Braedon and I will be back home tomorrow night!!! Praise God!!! He has truly blessed us. It is a miracle me and my little man are even alive not to mention thriving with our family. I don't know what I would do without my mama. Anyway we are moving back home tomorrow and when I say move I mean move. It is a act of Congress living some place besides home with a baby. Johnathan will be home on Tuesday and hopefully life will go on NORMALLY for a little while. THEN we will be decorating for Christmas which I am so excited about. I just hope I can get it all done with a little one. Anyway just wanted to fill everyone in on our new adventure.

OH BRAEDON IS NOW ROLLING OVER. He has rolled over three times in the past couple of days. I just think he is still to little to be doing this but he is proving otherwise. He is never ever still and he grunts all the time. I have a feeling we are going to have a very active little boy.

A New Blog

2008-11-06T10:40:00.001-06:00

Well I am new at this but I am going to try it so we can stay in touch with our out of town family and friends. I have always enjoyed looking at Stacey's blog and maybe one day I will do as good a job as she does but right now I am learning.