The Leighton Life

Pig Flu

2009-04-30T06:32:00.000-07:00

So I'm curious to know what others are doing, if anything, to prepare for this potential pandemic. Are you worried? Have you started to prepare? Do you know anyone who has been sick? It does seem to be spreading exponentially but I'm not in a panic....yet. We haven't started our food storage and now I feel overwhelmed and at a loss at where to begin so I'd love some thoughts (cough cough...Laurie) on how to begin.

Ahem

2009-03-20T06:22:00.001-07:00

Yes...still here. I checked the date that I last posted and gasped. Where in the world did the time go?? Sigh. Unfortunately, I refuse to promise that it won't be another month until the next post...things are just that hectic.

Sariah:
Made Student of the Month for February as well as made A Honor Roll. She has her first dance at the end of the year and Bill's Mom was sweet enough to buy her first party dress for her. It's so pretty and I can't wait to take photos. Sariah is sick at the moment with a fever and cough so needless to say, she's home today.

William:
Tried to say he was sick today but I knew better ;) He also made Student of the Month for February which was pretty cool to be able to see both kids in the same month at the same ceremony for the same award! He's doing super well in school. He did his very first book report (yes, in FIRST GRADE) and got 100% on it! He is still obsessed with Mario Bros but shocked us early this week by saying he wants to try soccer (like Sariah did) so he will be starting soccer in April.

Chase:
Also woke up with a fever and has had a brutal cough the past few days. He's been quite a help around the house wanting to help Pledge, vacuum and do laundry. It's amazing. He also loves to help out with Samantha and is so very protective of her. Chase isn't potty trained yet but like William, we aren't rushing it though he has to be before PRE-K next year! GASP! School for three of the four!

Samantha:
Wow...our fastest changing. She's crawling, pulling up, dancing, has 3 teeth, says "Mama", delights everyone around her! Sam is slowing weaning and loves to eat real food. Her hair curls at the ends which just adds even more cuteness. She adds such a fabulous dynamic to the family and we are blessed she is with us.

Bill:
Has been so busy at work. This is economy is hard on everyone...especially for people so closely related to the real estate market. Luckily, his company is doing ok. Not great by any means, but ok. I think that if his company stays steady in the next 6 months, jobs will be ok.

Me:
Busy busy busy. I am booked for March and April. Editing two weddings and a family session as I type. Recently placed 5th in one category in an international wedding photography contest and had some photos published in the Charleston Post & Courier Moxie section for a wedding I shot there recently. Hanging in there with the housework but barely

All in all, life is blessed and amazing and busy and crazy and I wouldn't trade it for the world. Photos to come...maybe...in another 2 months ;)

8 Months

2009-01-20T05:21:00.000-08:00

Our little baby girl came in to our lives a little over 8 months ago. Feels like just yesterday I was throwing up all day and complaining non-stop about the pregnancy (I know Laurie remembers..hahahaha). Sam had a check-up last week and is weighing in at a heft 18lbs 10z and is 28in long. No expert, but compared to William and Sariah at this age, she's a big girl! Samantha is now sitting up, scooting a little on the floor and pulling up to kneeling. She has two little front bottom teeth. Her coloring is becoming more like Bill than me...her hair is the exact color of Chase which surprises us but it's beautiful...I love the way it curls right by her ear. She seems to be gaining more and more interest in food which is great since I'm attempting to wean her. The family is in LOVE with her...the kids fight over who says good morning to her first and I've never seen a man melt so quickly at the sight of his baby's smile.

Life is good and Sam completes our family for sure.

Plans change

2009-01-18T18:13:00.000-08:00

Just when you think you know where you are going, things change. Bill and I started making plans for our next two years...we were going to try to relocate to Maryland or Virginia to be closer to his family and I was also going to stop shooting weddings. We don't like it here in Port St Lucie and it just doesn't feel like home. Not to mention there is NOTHING to do here.

Then recently I have started getting inquiry after inquiry for weddings and such and I've been landing them which tells me maybe I shouldn't be in such a hurry to say no to weddings.

THEN we just found out that Sariah has been accepted into Lincoln Park Academy which is one of the top high schools in the nation. It's been ranked as high as 48 and I think last year it was 150 or something. Their IB program is in the top 50. We are so proud of her for getting in and feel that removing her from this opportunity would be selfish and stupid. It's time for us to settle down and stop moving her around. Let her go to high school, make friends and be somewhere for longer than 2 years.

Soooooo, with that said, it looks like we'll be here on the "Treasure Coast" of Florida for a while. God seems to be stepping in as we make our plans and telling us we aren't quite ready to leave...that there is still more in store for us here. We're now planning on purchasing a house by next year and settling in for the long haul. I know that I haven't made an effort to make friends because I didn't want to make friends. I don't WANT to like it here. I have just missed Orlando so much but maybe it's time I get out of that mindset and start getting out and doing more and meeting more folks. Maybe, just maybe, I'll end up actually liking it.

HAPPY NEW YEAR

2009-01-07T08:42:00.000-08:00

and Merry belated Christmas. I know....you don't have to say it, I know! I suck! I'm the worst blogger ever. Sue me ;)

Too much time has passed to even try to recap the last month and a half, but we had a great Christmas and quiet new year. I'll be better in the future, I think.

Some photos of our past few weeks...

Male Bonding

2008-12-09T07:09:00.000-08:00

David and Bill are cousins. If you were to see the two standing side by side, you would think they were brothers as the family resemblance is uncanny! David and Bill grew up together but as time passed, literal distance separated the two and contact was lost. Our family went up to Maryland a couple of years ago for their Grandpop's funeral and Bill and David (along with a few other cousins) were reunited after not being in contact for a few years. We met David's wife, Buu, who is a fellow Vietnamese sista ;) and from there we've kept in touch, emailed and chatted. I have found a new friend in Buu and the bond between cousins has grown again and I'm happy to witness it. As you know, I think family is everything....

Anywho, Bill's cousin, David, had tickets to a Redskins/Ravens game and said if Bill could fly up there, he'd take Bill to the game...so as a birthday gift, I sent Bill packing for the weekend ;). Buu and David were gracious enough to let Bill stay with them for the weekend. Bill was able to hang out with not just David, Buu and their daughter but with almost all of that side of the family. They played poker, caught up and went to the football game. As Buu put it...years of male bonding packed into a single weekend :D. From what I gather, a wonderful time was had by all and I'm so grateful that Bill was able to go up to Maryland to enjoy time with his cousin and family.

This leaves us with the thought of wanting to be closer to family. We've been milling over the idea for some time now. Bill's Mom as well as the rest of the family, minus his father is up in that area of the country. He talks about moving back up there and being closer to to her and David and his childhood all the time....soooo......we are going to find a way to make it happen. It will be sad for me to leave Florida as I've lived here for 20 years of my life but the thought of getting to see Bill's Mom more often or hanging out with David and his family make us almost giddy. We want the kids to see snow, Bill and I want to see SEASONS again and to finally be settled as often times we have felt like gypsies (I know we don't resemble gypsies but whatever) and want to be somewhere that we feel we can finally bury our roots and let our family grow. We know for a fact that where we are living now will NOT be our last stop. This is not the area we want our kids to be raised so it's either back in Orlando or Maryland/Virginia. Pray for us as we make our plans....

Oh, some photos of Bill's weekend ;)

David, Buu and their beautiful daughter Quynh
More family
Bill at the game!
Bill and cousin Will
David...a little excited ;)
David staying warm with a beer

Two cousins together again

Why Hello

2008-12-02T09:31:00.000-08:00

So I've been quite a slacker in my blogging, this I know. It's that time of year where things get crazy and my brain starts freaking out. Not only do I have to do Christmas shopping for a husband and four kids, but I have clients to please before the close of the year, our Christmas card photo (which hasn't been taken yet), Christmas card designing....etc. Not to mention my severely neglected house. I haven't had so much dust on stuff in a long long time. I'm lucky to get a shower as it is but might have to cut out showers soon if life keeps at it's frantic pace. You can understand that, right? :P I really feel like I have absolutely NO time for ME and guess what...my feelings are correct. I don't have any time for me but that's ok. Who needs "me" time anyway? That's for wimps.

sigh

Back to the grind.

I've Been TAGGED

2008-11-17T17:41:00.000-08:00

Laurie tagged me with a tagging that I know will prove difficult for me to complete but here goes:

7 Things I can do:
1. letting my family and close friends know that I love them and would do anything for them.
2. take a memorable portrait
3. figure out solutions to problems. I am the type who won't quit until I find out how to solve issues or when posed with a challenge, I won't stop until I conquer the challenge
4. Organize. I can organize the heck out of a filing cabinet
5. clean house. Seriously. I love love love to clean. It's my outlet to relieving stress.
6. race a car...not that I do it anymore but back in the day, I had a 21-1 racing record. Yes, street racing.
7. I just asked Bill and he said I'm good with anything graphic/Photoshop-related.

7 Things I cannot do:
1. Hold in my emotions. If I feel it, people know.
2. balance my photography life and home life.
3. make the perfect omelette.
4. parallel park. I suck at it.
5. figure out how to get the boys to quit fighting.
6. find a real get rich quick plan ;)
7. stop regretting mistakes of the past

7 Things that attracted me to Bill:
1. he's hot. What can I say?
2. his conversation. From the beginning to this day...we can always find something to talk about or talk about nothing at all.
3. he is romantic. A few weeks after we met, he sent me flowers at work. He sent them to me again the next day and day after that. His reason? He claimed it was "Flower Week" but he just wanted to court me ;)
4. he and Sariah hit it off from the get go. That was one of the most important things with me. My daughter and I were a package deal
5. he's so smart and driven
6. his heart
7. he's hot ;)

7 Things I say most often:
1. "I love you."
2. "Knock it off!" (just like you Laurie)
3. "IGNORE HIM" (again, Laurie)
4. "Sit still"
5. "Quiet and eat!"
6. "Leave him alone!"
7. "What do you want for dinner?" - Lately I've been finding myself in the middle of the day asking Bill this question. What a great homemaker I am

7 Celebrity Admirations:
I don't think I have a lot of these. Celebrities are overrated and self-serving.
1. Laura Bush - Something about her...she seems so real. Like such a GOOD soul.

Yep....that's about it right now.

7 Favorite foods:
1. OREOs
2. my Kung Pao Chicken
3. my Chicken Parmesan
4. Vietnamese eggrolls
5. Cadbury Cream Eggs...what? That's food :P
6. Greek Penne Chicken
7. grilled burgers

7 People to tag:
1. Buu
2. Christina
3. Monique
4. Crystal R
5. Kimberly
6. Alissa
7. Amber

Election Day

2008-11-04T06:27:00.000-08:00

I had initially posted a rant and rave about today's election and how the masses will be ignorant in their decision making but I deleted it and have decided to replace it with a few photos of our Halloween ;) Enjoy...

William as Mario but kept getting called "JOE THE PLUMBER!"
Sariah as a fairy with a tude ;)

Samantha was just a princess...then she became Sleeping Beauty

Three striking a pose

Luigi aka Chase wanted no part of the mustache...

Happy Halloween!!

2008-10-31T11:10:00.000-07:00

We obviously haven't gone Trick or Treating yet but wanted to get some photos from the other day up and tomorrow's post will be dedicated to tonight's festivities.

William's class participated in a costume parade the other day. The children were to pick their favorite book and come dressed as that character. I'm a little surprised at what William chose but who's to argue with a 6-yr-old? He chose "If You Give A Mouse a Cookie" and chose to dressed up as, you guessed it, a mouse. This is unfortunately different that his Halloween costume so I was left to figure out whether to try to make the costume or buy one. I chose the first and thankfully it came together. It would have looked cuter had the wind not been kicking that day and flopping his poor ears over. Anyway, on to the images and more to come tomorrow of trick or treating ;)

His floppy ears:

His little tail ;)
And two little munchkins who were with us watching the parade:

Unfortunately, Sariah was in class and unable to enjoy the show so here is an photo I took of her this past weekend in WPB. My, how she's grown...

Life's Randomness

2008-10-24T07:28:00.000-07:00

I'm headed up to Orlando this weekend with Samantha to attend a bridal shower for one of my best friends, Kelly Shannon. Kelly and I have been friends for 10 years this year. We've both come a long way and have experienced many ups and downs...often together. She will be getting married to Aaron Barnes...one of my ex-boyfriends. Yep, one of my ex-boyfriends. Odd, huh? He wasn't just any ex. We lived together and he helped me with Sariah for over 1.5 years. In fact, Kelly dated Aaron's best friend at the time Aaron and I dated. Now, here they are on the brink of marriage to each other. Funny thing is that it works out so well. They "get" each other. They truly are in love. It's one of those marriages that you just know will last. Kelly and Aaron will be growing old together and I love it. Aaron and I have remained good friends over the years and Kelly, as I mentioned, is one of my best friends. Together, they are two of the most genuine, kind-hearted, loving, awesome people you will ever meet. I'm shooting their wedding on the 16th and I can only hope I capture at least a little part of what makes them so special to me.

To Kelly & Aaron, I love you both so very much and I wish you a lifetime of love, happiness and fulfilled dreams.

Today It Starts

2008-10-20T04:13:00.000-07:00

I'm determined to lose the last of the stubborn baby weight. I haven't been my "goal" weight in nearly 2 years and I think it's about time I get back there and start feeling better about myself. With that said, I'll be tracking my weight loss here. I have 10 more pounds to go. It doesn't feel like they will ever come off but I know I can do it. Sigh. Off to exercise (gasp).

;)

5 Months Old

2008-10-15T05:33:00.000-07:00

I know it's so cliche to say it, but they do grow so fast, don't they? Just yesterday I was throwing up and complaining I just wanted the pregnancy to be over. Today, we have the most amazing little baby girl who puts a smile onto the face of all who meet her. Samantha had her 4 month appt yesterday...a bit late but better than never, right ? She is a whopping 16lbs and 26 inches long! Holy breast milk ;)

Seriously, we have been blessed. All the kids adore her...no jealousy whatsoever. Bill is beside himself with being able to raise a daughter from the beginning (Sariah as 6 when he came into our lives). She sleeps through the night, in her own crib, which NONE of my other children have done. She smiles first thing in the morning and last thing at night. She has the most amazing cheerful spirit about her and she is simply a blessing from our most Loving Heavenly Father.

Sigh.....I love this age but I know she will grow up quickly. I'm making it an effort lately to really enjoy my children. Life is just too short.

:)

2008-10-01T06:28:00.000-07:00

Sorry for all the political ranting lately. Our government is so screwed up and in my mind, neither party really cares about the common folk. They'd rather sit up on Capitol Hill and play playground games than help you and me. I'm personally sick of it and while I would love to swear off watching the news which is obviously inundated with political crap, but my husband has turned me into a junkie so I catch myself turning to Fox News or going over to foxnews.com just to find out the latest political turmoil. Humph. Thanks, Bill ;) Anyway, I'll try to cut back on the rants and raves to return to my regularly scheduled family fun blogging.

Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde

2008-09-26T04:21:00.000-07:00

Chase is a special little boy. He was our "oops" baby but the best oops ever. He has brought a dynamic to this family that would certainly be missed if he wasn't here. He is strong, smart, adorable as can be and a cuddler.

He does, however, have what I have determined to be Dr Jekyll & Mr Hyde syndrome. First thing in the mornings, as everyone is getting ready for school, he is a holy terror. He screams at William when William sings, talks, breathes...you get the point. He just seems to have it in for William and William essentially takes it. Somehow, we get out of the door and after Sariah and William are dropped off to school, Chase turns into the sweetest little boy. He listens, no screams, helps out....he's amazing.

Then, we return to school to get William and Sariah. As soon as we get back home, all holy hell breaks lose and it's back to the screaming and irrational tantrums. It's not constant mind you but it is daily. When you try to get him to stop screaming...no matter if I try the sweet route or the stern route, he is bent on screaming at William or even me. It sometimes gets worse when Bill gets home.

I'm beside myself with how to fix this issue or is it something that he will just outgrow? If it's something that's outgrown, how freaking long will that be because frankly, I'm at my wits end. Chase tends to hit an octave in his screaming that makes me tear my hair out and I fear if this lasts much longer, I will be bald.

That said, I love him so much and the times he is just my sweet Chase are awesome times. I look at him and his chubby little cheeks, blond hair and tan skin...at his adorable smile....at his great big hugs...and just fall in love.

One of the last...I swear

2008-09-24T09:52:00.000-07:00

Really...with the election around the corner (THANK GOD), I'll post just one or two more rants. ;)

I am sick and tired of seeing crap like "BUSH BROKE MY COUNTRY" or "8 Years of Hell almost over" type shirts and bumper stickers. Sure, use Bush as the scapegoat. Have to blame someone right? It's like this EVERY TIME there is an election. Always blaming the outgoing President for what is going wrong in this country.

HELLO PEOPLE. Is Congress not to blame for ANYTHING?? Democrat run Congress? Sorry folks but if you want to blame anyone for the issues of this country...why not start there. I'm not saying that Bush hasn't made any mistakes because Lord knows he has but dear gosh.....he's not the only one to blame.

Better spent

2008-09-21T05:51:00.000-07:00

Just a quick political rant for today. I just saw that Obama and McCain have spent a combined total of $94 MILLION on their campaigns just last month. Just please pause for a moment to absorb that news, I'll wait............

If a candidate wants to show he or she cares, I can think of ways that money can be better spent. Of course the election is important, don't get me wrong but this is record spending and it's ludicrous. Give some of that money to charity for God's sake. Sure, make a show of it if it helps your campaign but at least do something GOOD with that money. Divide it up among charities, start a scholarship, do something GOOD, but to waste it all on a campaign in a single month is disgusting.

Off my soapbox and on to celebrate the rest of my birthday weekend.

Celebrity and Politics

2008-09-17T05:09:00.000-07:00

Every time there is an election, the celebrities come out of the woodworks to voice their opinion and they do so with the rather arrogant thought that people give a darn what they are saying. Granted that there are a few celebrities who hold value to some Americans and are able to sway votes. I, for one, have found that this election has brought out the Hollywood uglies. Ugly not in the superficial sense but in the "I am a celebrity so I'm smarter than you" attitude which actually shows just how stupid our society and these celebrities are and why I never take stock in what they have to say...regardless of party affiliation.

I refuse now to watch Miss Holier Than Thou Oprah Winfrey and I will never see Matt Damon the same after the "bad Disney Movie" speech. And the View? Good gosh. What a bunch of hypocritical crotchety old women. Have you watched the two interviews of McCain and Obama side by side? If not, I highly encourage you to do so. It will open your eyes regarding left wing run Hollywood. They worship Obama while grilling McCain. Why? Why not keep the interviews similar which would allow viewers/voters to see the candidates for who they are rather than who The View wants us to see. Pathetic at best.

I have never listened to Hollywood for anything and I certainly wouldn't listen and heed their advice on who to choose as my President. What I will do is look to Hollywood for comedic relief because the fact that these celebrities regard themselves so highly in the public eye is nothing short of hilarious.

Blessed

2008-09-16T07:45:00.000-07:00

I was reminded by my friend Laurie to remember to look past the everyday drama and hysterics and see the blessings I have around me...my children.

Sariah has become something of a little mother around here and seems to enjoy the role. I of course do the disciplining and diapers but she helps out in so many ways. Sariah is so unlike your typical teen...she has no attitude, no ill will, no emotional swings. She is a genuinely GOOD person with an amazing heart. I love her so much.

I love the way William still likes to lay next to me on the couch before bed. He falls asleep and I study his little face. He is a stubborn little man but at the same time, he is so special. I know without a doubt that he will grow up to do something quite special.

Chase...my bruiser...my tough guy...my big little teddy bear. He acts all big and bad with a temper to boot but when it comes down to it, he is a lover. He would rather cuddle than yell, I know this after watching him recently. He loves to help out around the house and is eager to please.

Samantha. Wow. From the start she has been the easiest baby we've had by far. She has slept through the night since 4 weeks old. She is now 4 months old and her personality is Little Miss Sunshine. There isn't much that will make her cry and she smiles at everyone and everything. Everyone has been wrapped around her little finger...twice.

Let me not forget my husband for without him I would be sad and lonely. He loves me for who I am and knows my heart and mind. He is my best friend and lover. Bill knows how to cheer me up and how to surprise me still. He is my partner in this life and I look forward to growing old with him.

Political Vent

2008-09-03T17:55:00.000-07:00

Have you seen the clowns? The ones "protesting" at the RNC? I swear, put them in a red nose and colored wig, they might be funny. These so-called people are anarchists at their most stupid. Running around destroying public property, mocking politicians, trying to make a statement about things they can't even comprehend. They aren't trying to make a statement because they don't even know what the issues are. For Heaven's Sake, most of them can't even name the top politicians of our government yet they are out there making fools of themselves and claiming to oppose these politicians. Seriously, if you want to protest, get educated first, stop smoking dope and then go protest in a more civilized and intelligent manner, please.

On another political note, I hope Palin blows the freaking door off of the RNC tonight with her speech and gets the left wing bullies to shut up.

Our Weekend

2008-08-24T19:18:00.000-07:00

Really wasn't much to this weekend. I DID get my haircut yesterday. It was a big event because it was the first time leaving Samantha and it was the first time I've had my haircut in a long long time. It felt good and one hour was all I needed. It was nice to do something for myself and Bill was happy to do it for me. :)

Today we had to go with Bill down to his West Palm Beach office to help with some stuff he needed to get done at work before tomorrow. It was a nice way to spend the day even if it was work. I guess I just love being with the family.

Enjoy the images:

The Flooding hasn't quite subsided yet. The first shot is the on-ramp going onto I-95. It's obviously not supposed to look like this.

This shot is leading to Wendy's which we found out was closed because the parking lot literally looked like a lake.

The crew:

Baby girl always so good:

Taking some shots of Downtown WPB with a fisheye lens. What a fun lens!

Bill HATES when I take photos of him while in the car:

William humoring me:

Our girl chillin' in the backseat:

Little sick man:

My SO South Florida shot with the tall-Miami Vice-like trees:

My I wish we had a yacht shot:

What year is it?

2008-08-19T14:45:00.000-07:00

I ask because schools have just been canceled for tomorrow too. Apparently there are a lot of county roads that are completely flooded. Our own pool is about to flood over and Bill says the streets are flooding. The lake in the backyard is rising at a rapid rate too. I feel like we are almost in 2004 hurricane season. Have you seen, there's another "disturbance" out in the Atlantic? Ug. It's going to be a long couple of months.

First Day of School and then some

2008-08-18T18:46:00.000-07:00

First of all, a video of supreme cuteness:

Today was the first day of school down here on the Treasure Coast. Bill took William and walked him into school. Will was so eager to get there and start his day. Chase, Sam and I took Sariah to school. It was quite a bit harder for Sariah this morning as the jitters were literally making her feel as if she would throw up. I felt so incredibly bad for her but at the end of the day, both Will and Sariah had great days and met some new friends.

Thanks to T.S. Faye, schools have been cancelled for tomorrow. I'm sure we'll get nothing but some rain. I suppose it's better safe than sorry though, eh?

Some photos of the first day of school:

This weekend, we went to Build-A-Bear, made cupcakes and took a dip in the pool as our End of Summer Celebration:

Remember

2008-08-17T20:07:00.000-07:00

I've been reading "I Am A Mother" for the past few months in between other books and I can across this quote that struck home:

Cleaning and scrubbing can wait for tomorrow,
For babies grow up, I've learned, to my sorrow.
So quiet down, cobwebs. Dust, go to sleep.
I'm rocking my baby, and babies don't keep.
~Author Unknown

It's hard to remember this as we go through our days but I sat here this evening watching home videos of when Chase was just a baby and cried. I listened to Sariah's voice, to William's voice, to Chase's voice....how they've changed but stayed the same. How hearing those voices today and yesterday make my heart swell. I'm making some big decisions here in the next few weeks and these videos and this quote have affected one of my decisions a good deal.

Take time for your kids today, my friends. Cherish the small quiet and not so quiet moments because before you know it, they are grown and you are lonely.

Just life

2008-08-12T12:55:00.000-07:00

We have a week left before the kids go back to school and I have mixed feelings. I am eager to have some...a little peace and quiet back in the house. The two boys together are just LOUD. I feel anxious for Sariah and William to start new schools. I'm also sad...I didn't do half the things I wanted to do with them but it's been kind of a busy summer, huh?

William lost first teeth...yes plural...teeth on Saturday. His two bottom front teeth came out on the same day within 5 minutes of each other!!! How odd. He's getting so big so fast. Chase is starting to speak even more clearly than before...more like paragraphs instead of sentences. Sariah is lonely but is such a help to me. Samantha....she is a doll...she smiles and sleeps and eats. That is her. I love it.

No news on the moving back to Orlando hope. Still praying like there is no tomorrow for it to come about though.

That's it. No big news. William's lost tooth:

Yay

2008-08-07T13:35:00.001-07:00

So we got Sariah into the school with the gifted program! We are so happy but irritated that they won't switch William over. Mind you, I understand he's now on a wait list and yada yada but we live ACROSS the street from this school. Sooo, I have to drive Sariah to school and then rush over 20 minutes away to drop off William as their schools start 15 minutes apart. It's not like in Clermont where there was a 30 minute difference. This whole thing is ludicrous. We live 1/2 mile from three schools but he has to go to one 20 minutes away. Whatever. Anyway, we are going to have him tested for gifted once the school year starts. Things might change anyway.

Other than that, things are good. I finally have a logo I can be happy with and a site I love. Check it out: www.elizabethleighton.com
and my site is finally getting back up in the Google rankings so I might get some business down here afterall ;)

I hope you are all well. I think of you often though I may not call or write or comment.

Am I Nuts?

2008-08-01T13:18:00.000-07:00

Don't answer that questions ;)

We may have Sariah's schooling situation solved as Bill called the school board and spoke with someone who might actually be able to help. We need to take Sariah's IEP up to the board on Monday and see if they can squeeze her in. So I'm very happy about that.

What I'm not happy about is the thought of William going to a sub-par school. Now, this school is only in it's 2nd year and maybe I should give them the benefit of the doubt but wouldn't that be like treating my 6-yr-old as the school's guinea pig? Is that really something I want to do? They say that if we think he might follow his sister's footsteps as far as gifted goes, that we should go ahead and put him into the sub-par school and then go to the counselor to get him tested. Ug. I just hate it.

So the "Am I Nuts" part is, should I homeschool? GASP! Me? I'm seriously giving it a thought now. I am somewhat smart but not patient. Could I deal with something like this?

Maybe this hatred just stems from the fact that I HATE it here. I think that has a lot to do with it....and how much I want to be back in Clermont or at least the Orlando area with all of my heart. Yeah...that might have a little to do with it. ;)

The School System

2008-07-31T17:43:00.000-07:00

here SUCKS. Like BIG time. I'm so upset with what we have gotten ourselves into and pray that we eventually leave this place. The schools aren't set up so you go to the school nearest your house. Oh no. That would be too simple. Instead, they "allow" you to choose which school you want most and which you want least. Thing is, most don't get their first choices. In fact, we got our 7th or 8th pick. AND this school doesn't have a gifted program for Sariah. IN FACT, I found out today that their supposed "honors" program isn't much of anything at all and that one of the people who works at this school told me she put her daughter in it last year and it was the biggest mistake of her life. Freaking great, huh? So my gifted daughter is going to be in regular classes and will get bored out of her mind and then her grades will go down and who will I blame. The school system because as I mentioned before, IT SUCKS. I'm so unhappy.

Also, I was hoping that they would test William for gifted this year but apparently, unlike Orange County Schools who, if they see a child who might need it, automatically test them...I have to request to have my child tested. What the...? Do they not work FOR the children at all? Are they purposely TRYING to hold our kids back?

I am ranting and raving but I'm not the only one around here unhappy with the schools. I guess a lot of people are but once again, elected officials aren't listening. Maybe it's time they start...

Sweet Blog

2008-07-29T15:51:00.000-07:00

So I started a new blog...a recipe blog. You know you are curious. Go check it out: http://sweetblogrecipes.blogspot.com/

Are you KIDDING me??

2008-07-25T05:49:00.000-07:00

I love So You Think You Can Dance. I think that show oozes with talent and I wish I would have stayed dancing as a child because I know I would have been a great dancer and had a great career. I love that show and I usually agree with their votes until last night. I'm sorry but America SOOOOOOOO got it wrong last night. Will was by far the most talented, personable and amazing dancer they've EVER had on that show. He is built like a Greek god and can move like I've never seen anyone move. Are you KIDDING ME??? How could America vote him off before Mark or Twitch...seriously? Can you tell I'm mad here? I don't think I'll be watching the show for the rest of the season that's how ticked I am. And if I do watch, Katie better flippin' win.

Photoblog Update

2008-07-23T05:02:00.000-07:00

I just updated my new business photoblog so if you have a link to my old blog, could you please change it to www.elizabethleighton.com/blog. Tell me what you think of the new blog!!

This blog address will remain my personal blog address.

:)

2 months ago

2008-07-17T15:03:00.000-07:00

I had Samantha two months ago. In some ways, it feels like yesterday and in other ways, it feels as if it were an eternity ago. We went to her two month check up yesterday and would you believe the little princess has gained 5lbs since birth?? She's 12lbs and 23.5" long. Healthy as a pig like my Mom would say. Sam didn't enjoy the shots at all, not that any children do but she took it especially rough compared to my boys. She hardly cries but man, oh, man...she was mad when the shots came and of course, being the sap that I am, cried right along with her.

I'm so grateful for this beautiful family of mine. Sure, the kids can be...um....trying at times and the husband can't read my mind but I wouldn't trade them for the world. They are so special and I am so blessed.

Sariah comes home this weekend. I can't wait. We've all missed her terribly this time around. I don't know...maybe because she was the only person I could talk to after we moved down (aside from Bill) but her and I...we've gotten even closer and it's nice. I can't believe she'll be in high school next year. :(

Chase is sick right now. It is highly unusual for him to be sick. We expect William to be sick all the time with a cold but not Chase. It's hit him pretty hard the past few nights and Bill has had to sleep with him on Sariah's bed. Poor kid.

I feel horrible for William. We essentially do nothing fun all day. He's watched WAY too much TV and played WAY too many video games. We haven't met any kids yet to invite over but I've joined some playgroups so hopefully that will change soon.

I'm starting to get ready to ramp up my business again. I'm scared that with this economy and being in a new place I will fail. I know...great mental attitude, eh? I don't know...time will tall.

As for Bill, he's Bill. Wonderful, reliable, loving, supportive, kooky Bill. I couldn't ask for a better life partner than him.

Sigh. Life.

(will post photos soon)

Almost 2 months

2008-07-07T16:23:00.001-07:00

I'll stop now

2008-07-06T14:15:00.000-07:00

I'm done with the "woe-is-me" posts. Yeah, I miss Clermont/Orlando. Yeah, I miss being close to my family and friends. BUT, I know I can't do anything about it except stay in touch with them, so I will. This week starts a new week for me. :) Photos to come tomorrow.

Just me

2008-07-03T20:35:00.000-07:00

Sariah is gone right now visiting her father and stepmom. It's just me now. I mean, of course, Bill is here too after work and on weekends but during the day, it's just me. No friends, no family...I try not to think about it but when I do start thinking...it's quiet and lonely. Well, minus the occasional scream from the boys or sound of thunder as it rains here A LOT. I know eventually I'll get out and make friends. Heck, maybe we'll even make it back to Church someday but for right now, it's just me. Le sigh.

Out of the mouth of babes

2008-07-01T12:31:00.001-07:00

I was changing Samantha's diaper today and William asks me "When will she grow a wee-wee?"

I answered "She won't grow one. Girls are different than boys and don't have wee-wees."

He responds "Wee-wee-less people are weird!"

Boys will be boys

2008-06-30T18:26:00.001-07:00

Man...having two boys is a hard thing. They fight, they laugh, they scream, they play, they get hurt, they hug, they are stubborn, they are loving. I never expected life to be this...ummmm...eventful with two boys but alas, it is indeed. I love when they get along and I hear laughter echo throughout the house. I hate when they fight and I hear screams as I try to lay Samantha down for a nap. Sigh. I love and adore them but man, at the end of the day, I can't wait for my head to hit the pillow.

A few photos...

Road Trip

2008-06-25T06:24:00.000-07:00

Needing to get out of the house, we packed up the Odyssey this past weekend to go explore our surrounding areas. We headed south and over to A1A. We are a little more familiar with how to get to the beach, where the mall is, where the rich folk live and how to find incredibly beautiful ocean water.

We didn't realize how different the water color would be down here until we were driving along and got a quick glimpse of the water from Beach Road. I wasn't able to get a photo of it because a storm rolled in but let me say that the water was a mix of jewel-toned blues and greens. Incredible.

We went over to Hobe Sound and Jupiter Island...holy wow. The homes there are amazing. Right on the beach and worth MILLIONS. There is a photo of one of the homes below. The image doesn't give it justice to it's size or fabulousness.

Anyway, here are some photos of our quick trip:

A few images of Samantha. She's quite a little chunker with more growing to do!!

Her favorite place in the world to be is sleeping on Daddy.

Visiting

2008-06-19T14:50:00.000-07:00

My parents came over for a visit today. It was so nice seeing them. Few images of today...

Be Still My Heart

2008-06-19T05:19:00.000-07:00

Samantha gave her first real smile yesterday and she's been smiling at us quite a bit this morning. What a feeling that smile sends to the heart. It's unexplainable, isn't it? I think we, as parents, crave that smile. Almost as if it's a sign that yes, we are doing ok. :)

Things are settling down here thankfully. We have been getting the house cleaned up and in order. The pool has been used and the kids love it. We're starting to explore our area. Kids have applied for their school choices. If we stay here next year (we are hoping to get transferred back up to Orlando with this job but that's a long shot right now), we already know the 2 neighborhoods we'd like to live in. It's all starting to come back together. I've even had a few people contact me regarding photography here already. Sweet!!

Here are some photos to enjoy:

William as Speed Racer

Samantha giving quite a surprised look
More to come of everyone later...

Light

2008-06-12T14:31:00.001-07:00

Unfortunately, I haven't taken as many images as I'd like but here's one to celebrate Samantha being 4 weeks old!

My goal is to start taking daily images. I won't necessarily post them all but at least I will have a documentary of our lives...

Missing you

2008-06-05T13:49:00.000-07:00

We have been here for less than a week, not quite settled into our house yet but I'm missing our old life something fierce. I miss the familiar surroundings. I miss the security. I miss knowing exactly where I'm going and how long it's going to take. I miss my parents being so close. I miss the news channels. I miss Laurie. I miss Kelly. I miss the drive to our children's schools. I miss the Super Target. I miss the lake view. I miss it all. I'm lonely here. Very sad.

Sorry to be such a downer. Just telling it like it is. I miss it all...tremendously.

When I Need It Most

2008-05-28T07:53:00.000-07:00

I haven't been to Church in a while and have felt the Spirit quietly but definitely sliding away...especially lately with everything going, I feel my patience has shortened, my temper heightened and my sanity lacking. I haven't been praying as much and certainly not reading, thus being an overall bad Mom and example to my children. Thus being a bad example to myself.

I find it funny however, how Heavenly Father then plants the seed back into the heart. How he uses others to plant that seed. See, I have a dear friend who I'm about to leave, who has been a shining example of who I want to be. She doesn't give herself the credit she deserves but I think of her as Super Mom, Wife and Friend. She does what is asked of her in Church (she is Primary president), she makes an effort to do FHE with her family each week, she cooks, she cleans, she prays, she plays piano, she loves her family, she reads, she takes care of her friends and without a doubt, the Spirit is with her. I know that Heavenly Father has put her in my life to be an example to me and oh how I'm grateful for that. When I am around her, that seed starts to sprout again and the Spirit knocks me in the head...so to speak. You know who you are, dear. Yes, you. I will miss you but I know that you are in my life for a long time to come, thanks to Heavenly Father....

Another thing that happened is I went over to Monique's blog which I haven't been to in a few weeks and saw her posting which lead me to FINALLY read Elder Ballard's talk on Motherhood. I REALLY needed to read this today...to remind me that there will be trying times as a Mom but that's ok. To try and cherish those special moments more which I need to do. I know Heavenly Father led me there today and I am grateful for that.

Anyway, sorry to get sappy but I'm in a sappy mood. Reflecting on the week past and look to the week ahead...feeling overwhelmed but I need to remember that HE is there...I just need to call on him.

No time

2008-05-28T07:44:00.000-07:00

No time for a long post but wanted to share this image of Bill and Samantha. Love his protective glare. Seems all the males of the family are already protective over her :)

Week 1 with Samantha

2008-05-23T04:43:00.000-07:00

Day 1

Day 2
Day 5

1 week old

My how she's changed in a week's time...

Baby Blues

2008-05-22T06:40:00.001-07:00

I've had PPD or the Baby Blues after each of pregnancies and I was hoping that they wouldn't hit me again but with everything that is going on, I'm afraid I'm not able to stop blues from surfacing right now. When I think of the week ahead of me, I cry. When I think of not enjoying Samantha's first few weeks in peace, I cry. When I think of all the work Bill is doing and how much he's missing his new daughter, I cry. When I think of relocating to a new city in just a week, I cry. When I realize that this is the very last time I will ever have a newborn of my own, I cry. When I feel alone, like I do now, I cry. I slow danced with my new daughter yesterday and I cried.

I know what this is and I know it will pass, but frankly, it sucks going through it. I know some of you Moms can relate. I needed to vent this. I needed to sit here and cry while I type this. Bill is my best friend in the world but I can't burden him with my stupid Baby Blues, so now it's yours to see.

:) There, I feel better.

Reality Check

2008-05-21T08:11:00.001-07:00

After speaking with a friend of mine yesterday (you know who you are...hahaha), I realize that I'm living in a fantasy world. So I had a baby last week and have been taking the past few days easy but then it hits me...we are MOVING next weekend. MOVING PEOPLE! MOVING. I have done NOTHING. No packing, planning, nothing...zip, zero zilch. Am I insane or just completely in denial or just trying to pack in as much newborn time as possible? Perhaps all three.

Now I'm stressing. I have to get boxes, Bill has to find the house, I have to cancel all utilities and do a change of address and and and..... ARG!

Not exactly how I planned to spend my first few weeks postpartum. :(

Samantha's Birth Story

2008-05-20T09:23:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, May 14, 2008 at 11AM I had my membranes stripped. Never having the procedure done before, I wasn't quite sure what to expect. Pain? Quick process? Effective? Of course, I read up on it on the internet but like everything else, there are many stories. I went in and my Doc asked me if I as sure I wanted it done. Without hesitation, I said YES! So she did her thing and yes, it hurt...like heck but it was a fairly quick process. She told me that I was 4cm dilated and 80% effaced and expected to see me within 24 to 48 hours. I left the office full of anticipation and yet full of doubt (must have been the internet stories).

I went throughout my day with constant but non-painful contractions. Nothing out of the ordinary really until around dinner time when I got hit with a decent contraction. Being a pessimist, I shrugged it off and got the kids and myself ready for bed. I stayed up for a little bit wondering if I would feel another good contraction but after a few hours, I realized I wouldn't so off to bed I went.

At almost exactly 2AM, I woke up to pain. Not searing, unbearable pain but without a doubt, the most painful contraction of my pregnancy. I sat up in bed and wondered if "it was time." I waited. 10 minutes later, another hit. I got out of bed and walked around a little and got hit a third time 10 minutes later. I know that Braxton Hicks go away with movement or walking, so I had a feeling this was the real thing. I hopped in the shower to see if it relaxed me...just in case I was hoping against hope. I had another while in the shower so I knew it was time. I called Bill who was in South Florida for work...3 hours away. I told him to get home. He immediately got on the road. I called my parents to let them know and they said they were on their way. I called my girlfriend, Janice and she immediately said she would be over. During this time, William woke up and couldn't get back to sleep so I let him hang out on the living room chair and watch TV. I woke up Sariah to let her know what was going on and she got up right away and started helping me out with getting ready, feeding William and such. That hour or so that she was up...she was the most supportive, most wonderful daughter. My contractions started coming every 4 minutes and were painful...Sariah would come over, stand beside me and gently rub my back. Having my daughter right by my side...comforting me...I can't tell you how much that means to me. How special she is. I needed her and she was there without question and full of love.

My friend, Janice, arrived around 4:30ish and she and I left for the hospital while Sariah waited for my parents to arrive (about 10 minutes after we left). The contractions were getting more and more painful...to the point that I had to stop and breathe out with each contraction. They lasted about 1 minute each time. We got to the hospital and they whisked me upstairs to L&D. The nurses set me up with an IV and some Stadall (spelling) to take the edge off of the contractions. That Stadall....yeah...nice drug. Made me feel drunk-like and definitely helped with the contractions. Janice sat by me and held my hand through each contraction. My friend of 20 years was there for me once again. I love you Janice and thank you.

Around 6:30AM or 7, Bill arrived alive but worn out from the 3 hour drive. I have never been so happy to see him. He and Janice took turns as I went from contraction to contraction. I was about 6cm and 90%. I believe the Stadall started wearing off around 10 or 11AM and I started almost begging for an epidural. The anesthesiologist showed up and popped in my epidural. Now, I've had epidurals with all of my pregnancies and have never had any issues with them going in or any physical issues once they were in. This doctor seemed to have a little bit of an issue getting it in so it took a minute or so longer than I'm used to which made me impatient as I got one contraction after another. Finally, after getting it into my back, I started feeling relief. Then I started feeling things I haven't felt before. I started vomited and as the labor went on, I kept vomiting. My blood pressure also dropped...to me A LOT (the diastolic number was 26 at one point)...and I was woozy from it all. The doctor injected something into my IV TWICE to get my pressure back up. It was just all weird and foreign to me considering I've never had issues before. Throughout this dreadful vomiting and wooziness, Bill was right there, pushing back my hair, cleaning out the bedpan and just loving me. I love that man so much...he is my soulmate.

Anyway, my labor was progressing but my contractions started getting further apart and less strong. This was after my water broke at some point in the morning. They allowed me to labor a bit more and then around 2:00PM or so, the nurse came in to check on me and said I was 100% effaced and had a little lip of cervix left. She expected it to go rather quickly but it didn't so she checked me again at around 2:30 and said she would be right back. She grabbed another nurse to "get a second opinion". The other nurse came and checked and said I had another bag of water that needed to get broken. Funny thing is that I had a feeling that was going to happen. I wonder if they had discovered that sooner, how much sooner would my baby have arrived. Anyway, the nurse managed to break the water and I felt a warm flow. I knew from that point that it would be soon. Very soon.

Around 3PM, my epidural started not helping despite being able to pump the flow myself. I told the anesthesiologist who gave me a "topping off". Well, my body didn't react to that topping off well and my right leg swelled to triple it's normal size and I couldn't move it at all. I could move my left leg and felt the contractions (sometimes painful) but not my right leg. Freaked me out a little but the doc didn't seem concerned.

Since the point my water broke, the contractions sky rocketed. Strong, hard and every 2 minutes. Around 3:45PM, I told the nurse I felt pressure. Elena (the nurse) checked and sure enough, the head was right down there. Doctor Lewis arrived and got everything ready. She sat at the edge of the bed, checked me and said if I was ready, to go ahead and push. Three pushes later, Samantha Elizabeth Leighton was out!! The first thing out of my mouth was "Her head is so round!!!" It really was...like a c-section baby it was so round. She let out a little cry and was placed on my stomach. At that point, Bill and I fell completely and totally in love.

The nurses weighed her at 7lbs and 19in long. Perfect. Absolutely perfect.

The funny thing is that about a month and a half ago, Bill put two dates in an envelope with his guesses of when Samantha would arrive. He had one date and May 15. He had guessed the date. Not only that but as soon as he arrived at the hospital, we did guesses on weight and Bill got that right too!!!

So we are going on day 5 now of Samantha's arrival into this world. With our impending move, I'm grateful that I have this week or so to enjoy her. To enjoy her coos. To enjoy her smell. To enjoy her staring at me in wonder. To love her. God has blessed my family once again. We are a family of 6. We have each other. We have love. We now have little Samantha. God is Good.

Could be it...

2008-05-15T00:02:00.000-07:00

I had my membranes stripped yesterday (Wednesday) morning at 11AM. It hurt. Bad. But I got through the 30 secs of pure agony because I knew I had a good chance of going into labor with it done.

I've had contractions off and on all day. Had a two painful ones right after dinner and then they kind of fizzled so I decided to just call it a day and get some sleep.

Woke up at 2AM with a painful contraction. They've been coming every 8 to 10 minutes and lasting around 50 seconds. I don't want to get my hopes up but at the same time, IF this is it, Bill is 3 hours away. At what point do I call him? Do I wait until I can barely talk? Do I time them for another 30 minutes? Of course, these are rhetorical questions.

I think I just got my answer. I've called Bill and will call my parents in a little bit. Hopefully, the next time you read this, I'll have photos of Samantha to go with....

Rant from a STILL pregnant woman

2008-05-12T03:40:00.000-07:00

Yep. Monday morning and I'm still with child. Yesterday was Mother's Day and let's just say that it didn't start out all that well. When I awoke to discover that I didn't miraculously go into labor overnight, my spirits were down...way down. Everyone in my family could feel my sense of disappointment. See, there's more to the story than meets the eye. It's not just that I absolutely LOATHE being pregnant. Don't get me wrong. I am blessed to be able to bear children...I know this with all my heart. But I really really REALLY hate the whole process of being pregnant. I feel like crap. On top of that, my husband is gone again for another 5 days for work (if you need details on this, email me) which leaves me MISERABLY pregnant and a single Mom for 5 days. This is going to go on until the end of May. I hate it. HATE IT.

Anyway, so Mother's Day started out crappy only because I'm miserably pregnant but it did get better because I have an awesome family. I am so blessed to have the husband and children I have. They know how to make me smile...how to touch my heart...how to bring me out of my depths of despair (ok...slight exaggeration there).

Let me add this since it popped into my head as I typed. One of the worst things about the end of pregnancy and I know that other women can attest to this: as a pregnant woman nearing the end, you get your hopes up with every "sign" that you think you may see indicating the end could be near.

The mucus plug came out? Surely, labor will start in the next day or so.
Having Braxton Hicks contractions by the dozen? Any minute full blown labor will start, right?
Is that discharge or leaking fluid? Maybe a trip to the hospital can tell
What? My cervix is at 2cm and 50% effaced? Ahhh, today could be the day.

Cruel cruel unreliable signs, ladies. Just being honest here. This is my 4th kid and while I don't proclaim myself an "expert" on pregnancy, I have had experience and I say it's all crap.

More crap for you this morning? The old wives tales of what can bring on labor. Don't believe any of them because until your body and your baby are ready, it ain't happening. I don't mean to be pessimistic here...truly I'm not but from experience and from trying nearly everything you can find on the internet about bringing on contractions and labor, none of it works.

Sex? Uh, no. Like I feel sexy in the least.
EPO? Nope.
Castor oil? Unless you want severe pain and nausea, don't do it.
Walking? Eh...no, although the exercise is great for you!
Nipple stimulation? What a joke.
Spicy foods? I had wasabi last night, Tabasco the night before...nothing. Zip, zero, zilch.

So, the lesson of the day? It won't happen until it happens. Good luck to my fellow preggo moms out there.

So, where does this rant leave me? HA. Still pregnant. But man, oh man, it feels good to let it out...to someone other than my poor husband.

Have I mentioned I'm done?

;)

Too many emotions

2008-05-10T10:27:00.000-07:00

A friend on one of my Flickr boards passed this site along and I felt it only right to pass it along to you. I warn you, before you read, grab a box of tissues...you'll need them:

http://www.mattlogelin.com/if-you-havent-been-here-before/

DENVER OR BUST!

2008-05-05T14:19:00.000-07:00

They made the offer and we are accepting.

Denver here we come!

Questioning

2008-05-04T16:26:00.000-07:00

I know that Heavenly Father has us go through trials and tribulations...testing our patience and most of all, our faith...but I'm wondering at this moment when enough is enough.

Steps...

2008-05-03T14:12:00.000-07:00

One step at a time, right?

Well, we've made one small step...

Hope to make a few more tomorrow.

10 Things I Just LOVE About Being Pregnant

2008-05-01T09:22:00.001-07:00

1. Backache
2. Getting kicked in the ribs
3. The constant trips to the bathroom to pee
4. Hemorrhoids
5. Not being able to breathe
6. Mood swings that change faster than a race car
7. Huge ever expanding belly
8. Morning sickness
9. Cravings/aversions
10. Acne

Tick tock tick tock

2008-04-29T16:03:00.000-07:00

I'm truly at a loss for words. We are STILL in a waiting game. We were supposed to hear back regarding the Denver position today but now we have to wait until FRIDAY. This is putting me on edge...like I'm not already there. The past few weeks have really been trying for me (and Bill). I'm not a patient person...really and these weeks that have passed without answers have driven me insane and it seems to want to go on for a bit longer. I'm trying to keep my head up and spirits high but considering my current physical state (pregnant), I'm having a hard time of keeping my emotions intact every day. I know that Heavenly Father is in control but being that I'm human, I'm constantly questioning why I'm going through this trial at this exact moment. I mean...I'm about to give birth and am impatient on that as it is and now all of this job drama. I feel like I'm at my wits end each day and yet, I am still alive and somewhat sane. None of this makes sense, I'm sure but I'm feeling like I need to let it out on the computer because I'm tired of crying in real life. Please pray this all gets resolved...soon...for my sanity (and Bill's).

I'm off to go cry again. I'll be done with my pity party soon...I hope ;)

Because I'm still pregnant...

2008-04-28T11:47:00.001-07:00

and have nothing better to do ;)

About Bill and I...

How long did you date? We met December 18, 2000 and were married March 1, 2001. Yeah...quick.
Who eats more? Me but I'm pregnant so I have an excuse, right?
Who said “I love you” first? He said it on New Year's Eve (yes, only 2 weeks after we met). I knew I loved him already too.
Who is taller? He is.
Who is smarter? Like I even need to answer that question. ;)
Whose temper is worse? MINE....by far. It's calmed down a lot but can still rise quickly.
Who does the laundry? Me with occasional help from Bill
Who sleeps on the right side of the bed? Are we in bed or looking at the bed? If we are in bed, then Bill sleeps on the right.
Who pays the bills? I do...since day 1 although we've been trying to do the bills together lately.
Who cooks dinner? Me
Who drives when you are together? Most of the time, him but I scare easily so I've been doing it a lot lately....hahahahaha
Who is more stubborn? I admit I am WAY more stubborn. I blame my Mom.
Who kissed who first? He kissed me, after he told me he loved me!
Who is the first to admit when they are wrong? Both of us are good about this.
Whose parents do you see the most? Mine....usually once a week. His Mom lives in DC and his Dad in Alabama.
Who proposed? I don't think there was a proposal persay. We kind of just got married.
Who is more sensitive? *raises hand*
Who has more friends? Me but my friends are his friends.
Who has more siblings? He does but they are all half siblings.
Who wears the pants in the family? ME ME ME ME

Laurie D.....I'm tagging you. Your turn to answer these questions ;)

More of the same

2008-04-25T13:35:00.000-07:00

More of the waiting game. So Bill had his interview in Dallas for the Denver position. Apparently, it went VERY well but not well enough to offer him the job on the spot. The owner has to talk to the other two owners before making a decision. This "should" be done by Monday or Tuesday...so we are still on job waiting watch. Have I mentioned that I'm not a very patient person...especially lately?

:(

36 week appt

2008-04-23T08:55:00.000-07:00

Had my 36 week appointment today (I'm officially 36 weeks on Friday). Everything is looking great. I'm 2cm dilated but still "thick". We had an ultrasound done and Doc says baby is about 6lbs but there's a 1lb margin of error so she's between 5 and 7lbs. Whatever the case, HOLY COW! It's starting to get close, eh? Another cool thing was that she confirmed that it is a girl...not that we didn't already know that but the confirmation of "Oh yeah...check out her labia!" was great for me. You hear those horror stories and they sit in the back of your mind...well, my mind for months.

Soooo....if I go into labor now, they won't stop it. Of course, I could be dilated 2cm for weeks but I'm hoping not too long. I'm ready to have this baby...we are ready to meet her. I'm scared Bill won't be around for her birth so I wish we could plan it but we can't so we'll just wait....and wait...and wait.....

Hugs.

Sick

2008-04-20T10:14:00.000-07:00

and tired. Actually, I AM sick with a cold. It's funny (not really). In my past three pregnancies, I've caught a cold everytime in my last month. What is that? Insult to injury? Maybe a lesson in appreciating my body when it's "normal?" I woke up the other night with a super dry and sore throat and just thought "You've GOT to be kidding me." Apparently, He wasn't. So I'm going to complain. I'm pregnant and can do that, right? I am so uncomfortable and irritable as it is...add a cold and man, you've got one pleasant woman on your hands. I'm surprised that my family hasn't run off to a hotel yet. Sigh. I know...it's almost over...but not soon enough for me.

Jensen Beach

2008-04-17T13:15:00.000-07:00

We drove down to South Florida to check out one of our potential new home areas. Before we left, we dropped by Jensen Beach so the boys could see the ocean...perhaps for one last time if we are headed West.

(Sariah was visiting with my parents that day)

Closer

2008-04-16T05:02:00.000-07:00

It's been confirmed. Bill flies out for his interview on the 25th. It's in Dallas but it's for the Denver position. I'm so stinkin' excited. We really think he'll get this position and as much as I'll miss Florida (the people anyway), I'm ready for a change...to start a new chapter. Bill is on to bigger and better things. I've heard that Denver is a great place to raise a family. The weather is gorgeous (well...when it's not snowing). The scenery incredible. I mean, hello...it's a MILE above sea level! Yeah....I'm hoping we get it...bad. If not, it's South Florida for us, which is fine but not my first choice.

We're going to be busy over the next few weeks. If I don't respond right away to your emails or calls, please understand. We are getting ready for Samantha's arrival and getting ready to move...amongst other things.

Hugs to you all for your love, support and concern!

Will post photos later...

Patience...

2008-04-14T09:47:00.000-07:00

or lack thereof. I've found that throughout my life, I go through different "waves" when it comes to patience. Some waves are times when I can't believe the abundance of patience I have. I feel as if anything can happen and I can tolerate it. The kids can be turds and I can handle it. I am forced to wait something out and I deal with it in stride. Let me state for the record, this IS NOT one of those waves. I am in a "I have to know what is going on about everything RIGHT NOW" stage and my patience with life is extremely limited. I know that Heavenly Father is testing me right now and I'm failing miserably. I'm trying. I swear I am but failing nonetheless. I feel like I HAVE to know what is going on with Bill's job searches right this second but we won't have final confirmation of where we are headed until April 24th. I want to have this baby RIGHT NOW but know I can't until she's ready. I want my kids to BEHAVE but that ain't happening. I want things to happen RIGHT NOW but NOTHING seems to be going my way. Sigh. Maybe I'm just a selfish person? I like to think that isn't the case but right now, not much makes sense.

I'm rambling. My pregnant brain has hit it's wall...again. I'll stop while I'm behind. ;) Ha.

Hope you are all having a wonderful Monday.

Peace of Mind?

2008-04-10T03:09:00.000-07:00

Not quite yet but we are getting there. Bill had his interview in South Florida yesterday and was offered the job to be GM of two stores on the spot. Fabulous salary and good benefits. What's the problem? We are waiting to hear on the Denver position. After the interview, Bill called up the other company and basically explained the situation to the owner...that he had received a job offer and was kind of wanting to see if they were really interested in him. The owner called back almost immediately and said YES. Looks like they are flying him out early next week for a face-to-face interview. They are looking for someone to start by Mid-May. I know the pay would be good and the benefits would be excellent. As much as I would hate to leave my friends and parents behind, Colorado sounds like such a great place to raise kids and I'm so SICK of the Florida heat. ;) Sigh....decisions decisions.

At this point, it's all wait and see until after the interview next week. It seems like forever but I know that once we make our decision, things will move incredibly fast. I guess I should start packing up the house now, huh? Start saying my good-byes? I can't believe the horrific timing of all of this. We have made the decision that no matter what happens, the kids and I will stay until I have the baby and kids are close enough to the end of school to not be a big deal pulling them out. My head is spinning a billion miles an hour thinking about all. My emotions...hello, I'm pregnant...my emotions are all out of whack. One minute I'm scared out of my mind, the next I'm panicking, and then I'm just nuts. I know I'm not, but I feel alone sometimes. Why do I say that? Because as a wife, I know that I'll be making a lot of the arrangements alone. Not that Bill won't help but I'm going to WANT him to focus on his new job and I feel it's my responsibility to do it all myself. It's my fault, I know, for having that mentality, but hey...that's me.

I am grateful that my Love HAS received a great job offer so soon after finding out about the layoff. He's blessed to be the awesome business man that he is and that other companies recognize that. He would be such an amazing asset to anyone. Yeah...I'm biased and bragging, but he's my husband, so I can do that. I have a feeling that these two companies will have a "fight" over him which is great and I know that we'll make the best decision for us as Heavenly Father is truly guiding us in this...

Thank you for your emails of support, hope and love.

Can't we all just get along?

2008-04-08T15:09:00.001-07:00

Actually, we do! My ex-husband and his wife...well, I consider them friends. I wish we lived closer so we could get together more often. I know...that's probably weird to a lot of you, but it works for us and we are happy about it! Anyway, we had the pleasure of going over to his parents house last Sunday for a little bar-b-que. We left Sariah afterwards so she could spend a few days with her other family over Spring Break. Here are a few images from the day:

Sariah's brother:

Sariah's other brother (yeah..she's got a lot of them!):

Sariah, myself and Charlie (the ex):

Sariah's 2 Moms:

Sariah's 2 Dads:

Sariah, Charlie & Alice:

Here or There

2008-04-08T06:39:00.001-07:00

This will be an interesting week for our family. Some of you already know this...Bill is being laid off and has until the end of May to find a new job. I fear his boss will let go of him sooner but that's another story. Bill is currently talking with two companies. One position is in South Florida and the other position is in Denver, CO. Yes, this means moving...either while pregnant or with a newborn. Can I tell you I'm terrified? If it were any other time, I'd be more than up for the challenge. I've never been to CO but from everything I've heard and read, it sounds like a delightful place to raise a family. If only it weren't 27 hours and 22 minutes away.

Anyway, Bill has a phone interview today for the position in CO and a face-to-face for the job in South Florida. Please wish us luck. We are just praying that we hear God's promptings and do His Will.

Aside from that drama, I'm just about 34 weeks along. In the past two days, something has changed and I'm feeling an awful lot of pressure "down there" and have had more backache than ever. Things are changing. My body is starting to get ready for the big event. We are pretty much all ready for her arrival. I'd like to get a few more diapers and wipes before she arrives but we have all the other necessities. :)

Kids are back in school today from Spring Break. I love my kids but man, oh, man...I'm happy to have a little more peace in the house. The two boys are all about irritating each other which in turn irritates me. It's so quiet now. :D

Will post photos later...

The Need to Blog

2008-04-07T12:11:00.000-07:00

There have been many times where I want to blog about personal life but don't feel it appropriate to do so on my "business" blog so I thought it time to create a family blog again :)

At the moment, all I want to do is sleep and NOT blog so I'll leave it with this. I'm just about 34 weeks pregnant and dying to just have the baby already. Sigh.

More to come later. Sorry for the ultra boring blog post.