The Jackson Square

Happy Birthday Luke!

2009-12-17T21:07:00.004-06:00

Happy Birthday Sweet Luke! I have a lot to say about this day but for now I am just going to say Happy Birthday and I love you more than words could even begin to describe.

Love you ALWAYS.

Mama

The Evolution of (Luke) Man.

2009-11-19T11:33:00.002-06:00

Rolling at 4 months

Crawling at 7.5 months

Walking at 10.5 months

Please make time stop, I can't take all this growing up.

Halloween!

2009-11-16T14:54:00.005-06:00

I know I am way behind from Halloween but here are so pictures of the cutest Lion in all the Jungle.

SERIOUSLY!!!!

We spent the day in Cypress at a Halloween event my Mom was having, There were tons of people and even more dogs, there were diving dogs and dancing dogs and frisbee dogs, and a dog costume parade. It was really fun and Luke loved seeing all the dogs.

Some of our favorite people!

Cowboy was...well a cowboy!

We didn't really go trick or treating because 1. Luke doesn't eat candy and his Mom doesn't need to and 2. I was pooped from the day. We just handed out candy and then called it a night. It was such a fun day and I can't wait for next year.

Mommy was exhausted. Luke not so much.

In other news....WE HAVE A WALKER!!!!!I am trying to upload video of it but no such luck yet. When I get it worked out I will put it up. I love the little Frankenstein walk, you know the one, arms out, legs straight, never bending the knees. SOO funny!

I love this time of year...80 degrees and all.

2009-10-28T20:51:00.005-05:00

This has been a fun month around The Square.

We went to the Brazoria County Fair. We ate corn dogs and tornado fries, we drank lemonade and played carney or NOT carney. We looked at pigs and goats, chicks and cows. We had a great time despite the fact that a clown came and sat down right next to Luke and I as we were getting our picture taken. I was not pleased, I don't think Luke was too thrilled either.

The next weekend we went to Tyler to see Uncle Josh and had a lot of fun shopping around town and hanging out with him. We also enjoyed the fact the The Aggies Beat the Hell Outta Texas Tech!!! Before we left for Tyler I took some photos of Luke on his new push/ride toy at Mimi and Abo's. Needless to say he loves it!

Whoop!!!

This week we made a trip to the Pumpkin Patch. I have driven by this place countless time and dreamed about the day i would get to take my own child there. I was so excited I think I could have cried but I didn't because...well Tommy was with me and he would have been all, "are you crying?" and I would be all, "NO! I think the rain blew something in, my allergies are killing me." I would rather avoid that whole situation so told myself I was going to get some good photos of me and my monkey man and if I cried I would ruin my makeup. Needless to say I was not disappointed.

I love my little man!

Getting so big.

Melt my heart.

Check out his belt.

Well that about covers our month, I decided to leave out all the riveting details of laundry and dishes and diapers. If you are interested in those stories give me a call, I have more than a few we can talk about.

Happy Fall Y'all!!

Really?

2009-10-08T21:22:00.003-05:00

I mean, seriously son. If you want to play with the toy on the other side all you have to do is ask and I will move it away from the wall so you can get to it.

BUSTED!!

And then just a few just because he is so darn cute.

This can't be my child. My child is small and chubby and is not able to get onto his knees like such a big boy.

9 months old. Really??!!?

2009-09-20T10:58:00.005-05:00

Luke, you turned 9 months old last Thursday and I can not even believe you will 1 in 3 short months. We went to the doctor for your check up and everything is great, you are in the 75th percentile for both height and weight, no big surprise there.

So here are the 9 month stats.

Height: 29 inches

Weight: 22.2 lbs, WHOA!

Legs: CHUNKY!!

~You are such a joy to everyone around you.

~You smile at everyone, sometimes you stare and smile until they smile back.

~You crawl really fast and you pull up on everything.

~You can stand alone for a little while before falling back down.

~You are still a great eater, and you have started getting some table food.

~You sleep from about 8:30 at night to about 7 in the morning, and you nap twice a day.

~You have learned to pout, if we tell you no you turn around fuss at us and then move on. It's funny but I can only imagine what the terrible 2s will be like.

~We had to find you a cell phone to play with and you drag it around everywhere.

~You love to stand in the window and talk to the dogs.

~We taught you a trick. When I say, "How big are you?" you put your hands over your head and I say "SOOOO big!"

~You do this funny little squeal, your daddy calls it your dolphin call.

~You talk ALL THE TIME.

~You make your Daddy and I happier than we have ever been and we love you more than you can imagine.

Happy 9 months little dude!

Back by Popular Demand.

2009-09-18T13:40:00.001-05:00

More grunting, I tried to cut out most of my voice but the laugh is in full force. Enjoy!

How could I forget!!?!

2009-09-17T21:36:00.002-05:00

I can't believe I forgot to include this in the monster post. For some reason Luke started doing this funny grunt thing, the phase didn't last for long but it was so funny. Here is some video of it, please excuse my smokers laugh, I don't know why it happens since I don't smoke so just pretend you don't hear it. Same goes for my annoying voice.

It's a Miracle!

2009-09-17T17:07:00.008-05:00

Well since so many people have been asking about the blog, I will update. So this is dedicated to all of my faithful non commenting readers…all 3 of you.

Pimp LT

Not a lot has been going on here around the square. We have been running the roads a lot lately. We made trips to Cypress and Silsbee, we also made the journey up north, you know Ft. Worth and Center. But more on that later.

Let’s pick back up where we last left off…July.

In July, me and the little man took swimming lessons with our friends the Gilberts. By lessons I mean we got in the water with other children and splashed around. We “learned” how to float on our back while mommy holds you up, and how to let mommy pull you around in the water while you gawk at all the little girls in swimsuits paying no attention to your freestyle technique, and we also learned how not to scream and punch mommy while she tries to hold you like the unnamed child who was about 4 times your age. Luke actually DID learn how to be dunked in the water without making the gasping “I’m drowning face” and how to sit on the side and push his Buddha belly out so the he would fall into the water. He was the youngest in our class and he did so well. I would post some pictures of the classes but they are not some of HIS best angles so I won’t embarrass him by putting them up for the world wide 3 of you to see.

We spent some time trying to teach Luke how to use his arms while crawling. He had gotten very good at getting up on his knees but then he would just belly flop forward. I know what you are picturing but let me tell you, it was NOT an army crawl. It was a projectile crawl. He would get up on all fours and rock back and forth building up momentum and then BOOM shoot forward and land on his belly. It was so funny to watch but we thought maybe he just needed a little extra practice, so Tommy would hold up his legs and try to play wheel barrow around the living room. The practice paid off because shortly after the arm tutorials started we had a bona fide crawler on our hands. And as not to be labeled a slacker by anyone, the child decided that two days of crawling was enough to get the hang out it so he moved right onto pulling up…ON EVERYTHING. So if you’re within arms reach and wearing an elastic waist “hold on to yer britches” cause Luke is going to try to crawl up them. No rest for the weary, right?

Please don't call CPS on us.

One of his favorite places to stand (pretend like the window is clean)

We spent time in the Johnny Jump up but that was short lived when the crawling advanced to warp speed and we spent some time reading books with Daddy.

Is this the cutest thing ever? I think it is.

The last days of July were spent hanging out with the family before Josh packed up and made the big move to Tyler.

I know it looks high but... well...it was high.

In August we took Luke for his first trip to the Zoo. It was a blistering hot day but we had a great time. We turned it into a family event when Heather brought Zack and Kaye Ellen, Justin, Mandy, Nana and Big Daddy rounded out the group. It was so hot that Zack took refuge in a zoo sprinkler that was spraying what I am positive was fresh clean water, clean enough to drink and surely not some zoo water from a questionable source. Well if it is good enough for their monkeys I’m sure it is good enough for ours.

Josh moved to Tyler on August 11th and just for your peace of mind…Cindy is still alive. She made it through the amputation I mean move just fine and got him all settled and was even able to catch a few practices before heading back home. I was able to do my part in the process by providing one very unorganized closet for her to come clean out and organize. There is something to say about having a mom who relieves stress by cleaning and organizing. I’ll try to keep these therapy sessions available and I’m working on a doozy of a garage clean out for when things get really hairy in Tyler, maybe around exam time.

We made the trip to see the Dallas/ Ft. Worth contingent at the end of the month and as usual had a great time. We ate our way through our trip. As usual. Babes may have been visited and the electricity might have gone out while certain patrons were waiting on food. Most people would have just gone home, you know a little bummed but whatev. Can you imagine what you would think if said unnamed patrons waited in the dark with an 8 month old for the wonder that is fried chicken, crack in a bowl (cream corn), green bean greatness, mashed marvels and biscuits only to proceed to eat in the dark with the only light coming from cell phones and birthday candles lit in biscuits. I mean seriously, who would do that. Luke charmed his way through the trip as usual.

We rounded out the trip with a stop in Center Texas to see Granny and Papa. She greeted us with chicken and dumpling, truly one of my favorite ways to say I love you. It was great to see them even though the trip was so quick. After eating our weight in chicken and dumpling we made it home.

Mom and Steven celebrated their 22nd wedding anniversary on the 15th and Tena, also know as Nana celebrated her… 25th birthday on the 21st. There are no people I know who deserve more happiness than these people so I hope they were great.

Somewhere along the way Luke got fangs. His two top teeth beside the front ones came in first. Envision a vampire that is what he looked like. So funny but I was relieved when the front ones finally peeked through.

If you look closely you can see the fangs!

How did I get such and funny and happy kid?

I think that covers everything, well I’m sure that’s not everything but that is all I can remember. I really should get better about updating this blog so that I can remember it all as it happens. Oh well there is always next month.

Miracle

2009-09-16T22:42:00.003-05:00

I am brewing up a miracle. You know, also know as a post in my world.

Check back for more details and precious pics of my pumpkin!

2009-06-22T16:08:00.011-05:00

OK people, I am a no good, very bad blog slacker. Now that it’s out in the open let’s acknowledge it and move on. Deal?

Since it has been like 4 months-ish since my last post I feel like the most effective way of tackling this daunting time span is a bullet list. If you are not interested in long bulleted lists featuring one ADORABLE little boy and his sometimes wacky parents then slowly back away from the computer and resume your normal day. If you are still reading (Hi MiMi and Aunt Rhonda) then go grab yourself a cold glass of sweet tea and maybe some granola for strength, find a comfy chair and proceed. By the way you have been fore warned.

· March was pretty uneventful, but on March 22nd Aunt Stephanie turned 21 years old. Seriously, is that possible? We love you Aunt Steph!

· On April 9th Tommy and I celebrated our 4 year anniversary. I love him more today than I would have ever thought possible. Thanks for everything babe.

· We went to Dallas for Easter to introduce Luke to the rest of that side of the family and we had a blast. The little cousins were so cute with him, they loved on him and rubbed his head and held him. We also went to Babe’s Chicken House to celebrate Josh’s birthday (he is 19… really?) which in case you haven’t been, this is the most mouthwatering place in the world. If I had to choose a last meal this would be it. I think I may have an unhealthy love for Babe’s.

· On April 25th someone started rolling over. I was so proud of him for having the strength to get those thunder thighs of his over and if you have seen him you know what I am talking about. It is so cute to go in his room in the morning to get him up and he is just laying on his belly looking up at me.

Morning Mom!

Towards the end of April Luke also started sitting up by himself, he was still pretty wobbly but he could do it. Now he throws his arms in the air taunting me with how big he is getting. With the last two developments I may have shed a few tears, everyone says it goes so fast but I guess I didn’t think they would be talking about my little guy.

· To start off May we finished a shut down and rewarded ourselves with prizes. I got a new fancy camera and Tommy got a new bow as in bow and arrows not hair bow, just in case that wasn’t clear.

· We spent some time in Silsbee boiling crawfish and playing in the rain. A good time was had by all.

· Luke started eating cereal and fruits, and loving every bite.

Please can I have some cereal?

Wow, this is soooo good.

Thanks mom, that rocked!

· On May14th Aunt Erin graduated from A&M.

· On that same day I got a new boss and customer service supervisor. Both are really cute and I love working for them.

· On May 18th this Mama turned 28. Do you know how much I LOVE my birthday? We went to Pearland and had lunch with Mimi and Abo, Aunt Steph and Uncle Josh.

· Then on the next day Grandpa Jackson came to visit. We played golf and fished at the beach and cooked out and had a great time.

This is how Luke tended the flag.

· Then we had the whirlwind of Josh’s graduation party and ceremony. I can’t believe that my baby brother is old enough to be in high school must less finishing high school and about to start college. Wasn’t he just that sweet little boy with cute red curls just yesterday?

· Somewhere along the way the little man got two teeth and yes, before you even ask I wrote it down. I just don’t have his book in front of me so a round about time frame is going to have to suffice.

· Finally, we make it to June. We just got back from a week long vacation to visit friends. We went to Virginia to see Andy J and Allison. While we were there we went to vineyards and did wine tasting, all of the places were so ugly that I almost refused to get out of the car. I mean this place is seriously lacking in the beauty department. The boys went hiking and fishing and we toured Monticello. We laughed a lot and had so much fun. We love just those two.

Seriously? How cute is he?

This place is UGLY.

The Granny Nanny at work.

Next we headed to Baltimore to see Angie, John and Emily. They took us out on jet skis and to eat on the Chesapeake Bay. We also devoured some crab with Angie’s parents, it was so delicious. Her dad showed me the ropes and then I was off. We also played a game of uno that might have been the highlight of the visit, it has been a long time since I laughed so hard that I thought I might …well you know.

My favorite boys!

Show me your muscles.

Next we were off to Washington D.C., it was such a fun trip. We saw monuments and went to the Smithsonian and National Archives. We took a boat tour to Mount Vernon and while we were there got POURED on. Tommy came back with a list of new historical books to start reading. We also got to see Kat and Clif, Clay, Evy, and soon to be baby #3. They are such a cute family and my time with Kat is never long enough. We were lucky enough to drag Tommy’s mom along with us as what we took to calling The Granny Nanny. She was so much help (especially on what turned out to be a 10 hour flight going) and we were even able to have real grown up time while she watched Luke. It was a great trip with fantastic friends and we can’t wait to do it again.

· So, now we are sitting here on Tommy’s first Father’s Day. He had to work today and I spent the day making some food for Luke. But don’t worry he is not being neglected he is sitting right here reading his new Presidents book after a big spaghetti dinner and Southern Blackberry Cobbler Ice Cream, trust me that stuff is Heaven in a Blue Bell carton.

Hope all the Dad’s had a great day and if you are still with me Bless your Sweet Heart (love you Mom). And for making it to the end I will reward you with general cuteness.

It is scary how much this reminds me of...me.

2009-02-20T14:42:00.003-06:00

I am going to attempt something I have stolen from a sweet girl called Katie Kate. She writes her daughters letters, not just any letters but tears in the eyes, giggles and smiles, sweet, loving, letters. I am probably not as sweet (as most of you are nodding your heads about) but I would love to have a bunch of letters for Luke to read when he is mad cause I won't let him take the car out or I won't eat pizza again for dinner, or he is getting married or about to have a kid of his own, to remind him how very much he is loved. So since I will NEVER be a scrapbooker, I will do it here.

Dear Luke,

As I am sitting here right now you are sleeping soundly in your big boy crib in the room next to me for the 4th night in a row. This has been a rough week for mommy. I went back to work on Tuesday after staying home with you for 8 glorious weeks. I only have to be at my school from 3:30-6:45... it felt like an eternity but I only cried once. I don't see how other full time gals do it but they have my utmost respect. On Wednesday I decided to stop being selfish by keeping you in the bassinet by the bed any longer considering when you stretch your sweet chubby arms out at night you hit the sides and wake yourself up. But it was so nice having you right there where I could hear you and watch... I mean check on you all night long. Granted, we have a video monitor that I can see and hear you on while you are in your crib it isn't the same. Trust Mommy on this, sweet one. Daddy had a hard time with the crib transition too but I will let you ask him about that one day.

Since this is your first letter, lets back up a little and tell you about me. I am your mom. That sentence makes me the happiest and proudest person ever. I love to read and watch movies. I love my friends and I love your dad. Your daddy and I met in college through friends, ask about the whole story one day you will get a laugh out of it cause I know we still do. We have been married almost 4 years and are living in a small little town called Lake Jackson (it isn't named after us but you can tell your friends it is, they won't know the difference).

You have entered the world at a very historic time. We have a new president and not just a new one but a historic one. You will read about it in your history books. When we ask you what you learned at school and you say "nothing" and then we ask you again and you say "just stuff" and then we beg you to tell us and you say "we are learning about the presidents" your daddy will get a huge smile on his face and start talking about this election and all things political. It's what he does. He loves politics and history and I listen as long as I can but then my eyes glaze over and I quit listening so it is OK if that happens to you too, you can blame it on me. Our country is at war, gas prices are not too bad right now but milk prices are. Our nation is in an economic slump but we are OK. We are blessed by your dad's job and his ability to provide for us.

We have prayed for you for as long as I can remember. You have more people that love you than you will ever know. Your family is huge and hilarious. In your 2 short months you have met some but there are lots more. You have made all of us very happy people.

There are countless things I love about you. I love that you have been the best baby from the get go. I am now one of those crazy people I used to talk bad about. I loved being pregnant with you. Not liked, LOVED. You were such a joy even then. Then you made your easy entrance into this chaotic world and have been a breeze ever since. You are a chunky little thing and have a little bald spot on the left side of your head. You love to be in your swing. You love the sound of the fuzzy stations on the radio and the hair dryer. You eat quickly and sleep peacefully. You smile easily. You grunt constantly. You melt my heart instantly and you look just like your dad.

You complete us perfectly.

I can not wait to see what God has planned for you. I am so glad he picked us to protect and love you here on Earth.

Sweet son, you are a blessing.

I love you loads.

Love,

Mom

2009-02-19T10:40:00.009-06:00

We haven't been up to anything too exciting, just the usual fun Jackson shenanigans.

Josh had a really fun signing day and it was so great to be a part of it. I had Luke a t-shirt made for the occasion that said, "Apache Fan" on the front and Theut and his number on the back. Well, lets just say it was a big hit. It landed Luke his first picture in the paper!

We made a short little weekend trip to Silsbee. As usual we had a great time and Luke and Zack bonded over rides on the golf cart and afternoons in the shop. They are going to be the best of friends and I can only imagine the trouble they are going to get into together.

Sweet boys. Aww Wee.

Isn't he funny...and that is Tupperware and not a bag, just for clarification.

Big Mama came over the Valentine's Day weekend, so we were able to sneak off for the night for a nice grown up dinner in Galveston with the Gilberts and the Shwertners.

My two favorite Valentines!

We also took Luke to the doctor for his 2 month appointment and he is doing great. The chunky little man is tipping the scales at 12 pounds and 13 ounces and is 23 inches long. Needless to say he is happy, healthy and eating well. I am have been taking pictures of him each month next to his sock monkey to show you how big he is getting. I missed the 1 month mark because we were in Ft. Worth but I am back on the wagon and will show you the 2 week photo compared to the 2 month one. Can I hear an Amen from the crowd for the round baby I am living with.

2 weeks and 2 months, I can't even believe he is the same baby!

Seriously mom...enough with the camera.

The rest are just for your viewing pleasure, cause I can't get enough of him so I am sure you can't either. : )

This is how I spend most of my day.

This is how he spends most of his. I lovingly call the swing the Neglect-o-matic but he loves it so I love it.

Newborn Pics!

2009-02-11T16:02:00.003-06:00

We had photos taken of Luke when he was 2 weeks old and I am just now getting around to posting a little sneak peek at some. I can't post them all because I have to save the best ones for the birth announcement that is going out this week, (please pay no mind to the fact that he is almost 2 months old and they are just going out... I have been busy ok.)

A sweet woman right in our area did them and they turned out better than I could have hoped. She was so patient and I am sure it couldn't have hurt that wonder baby was...well...wonderful.

I also forgot to post my little man's 1 month stats from his last doctors appointment. So here they are: 10.2 lbs of love and 20.5 inches of sweetness. He is in the 75th percentile in weight and the 50th percentile in height, just like I like him short and stocky. We go back to the doctor on Monday for our 2 month visit and (cue the horror music) his first shots. I am sure I will cry more than he will but whatever happens I will be back with more stats and new pics.

Have a great Valentine's Day, we love you tons!

Has it really been a month?

2009-01-26T10:45:00.011-06:00

I can't believe it has been a month since I graced you with the preciousness that is my Luke. Seriously, what have I been doing? Oh yeah...feeding, sleeping, changing diapers, feeding, burping, laughing, feeding, showering (when time allows...just kidding...kinda), rodeoing, and feeding.

There is a lot to catch you up on so bear with me.

Christmas was great. We went to my mom's and Big Mama and Tink and Erin met us there for Luke's first Christmas. I was a little weepy that day and when I tell you why don't think I am crazy or crazier than you already think I am. I totally miss being pregnant. I know, I know that sounds nuts, but I didn't realize how much I liked being pregnant. I understand this is not the case for most people but I was so blessed with a great pregnancy that I actually loved it. All that being said I love Christmas and obviously this year was no exception.We spent New Year's Eve with our great friends the Gilbert's and Luke came too. He was a dream, he slept through all of the festivities including the noise makers and horns at midnight.

OK let me just put this out there...this baby of mine is perfect. He sleeps from 5-7 hours at night and has been doing that for several weeks and he only fusses when he is hungry or tired. And if he is tired just turn on the hair dryer and he is out like a light. How did I get so lucky? I know this means the next one will be hell on wheels but for now I am just pumped about my super baby!

Mimi and Abo came to babysit while Tommy and I went to dinner for his birthday, the big 2-8 for those keeping track . It was such a treat for us and as you can see it was really rough for Luke!

We have had a few little adventures with the little man. We have been to Cypress several times, we have been to Silsbee and we went to Ft. Worth. He has proven to be a super trooper. He sleeps like a dream in the car and I think he gets that from his Uncle Josh, I mean the kid is asleep before we get out of the driveway most of the time.

We went to Silsbee for my cousin Emily's wedding where Zackary Cola was the cutest ring bearer ever and totally stole the show.We got to see lots of people we love and Luke was especially excited to meet his Uncle David Burl.

We went to Ft. Worth to introduce Luke to all of Tommy's family and his Aunt Summer. We also just happened to be there for the Livestock Show and Rodeo. I didn't realize this was such a big deal but Tommy was so excited and assured me that "this thing is legendary." I was not disappointed. We had a big ol' time. Luke got boot slippers, some spurs, and a stick pony along with a "bull ride" and a sit in a huge John Deere (just to make Big Daddy proud).

Tommy wants this for a farm...I want it for my floor!

Then to round out our adventures we went to Cypress to see Aunt Joy. We always have so much fun with her and this trip was no different. We learned about Aunt Joy's new friend and the "bases" thanks to Josh and listened to Aunt Steph be the boss at work. There is never a dull moment around this crowd.

Well, I think that covers everything. Oh...except we have to congratulate Josh for committing to play football at Tyler Junior College. We could not be prouder of him. And BTW...when did this happen?

Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T07:21:00.006-06:00

We hope you have the best Christmas ever, I know we will.

Get ready for some picture overload! : )

Our First Family Picture

Proud Daddy

Sweet Baby

Aunt Heather

Aunt Erin

Luke and Abo

Aunt Steph

Big Daddy and Nana

Look at his hands compared to Luke's head.

It's hard work being the Best Dad

Nothing can put you to sleep like a sleeping baby and a book on Lincoln

Seriously...Look at the hair!

Mommy's Angel

MiMi, Me and Luke after his first bath

Sooo...

2008-12-18T03:51:00.006-06:00

Christmas came early this year and we have never been more blessed.

Luke Thomas Jackson

December 17th, 2008

7 Lbs 2 Oz

20 Inches

100% Perfection

More pictures to come later.

All of our love The Jackson THREE!!!!

So Much to Talk About!

2008-12-09T17:03:00.013-06:00

So in the time since I have updated we have had a busy month. There is so much to catch you guys up on.

First, we had a wonderful shower in Ft. Worth. It was at this cute little tea room and it was so much fun. We ate, laughed and played some really funny games. For one game everyone was given yarn and told to cut a piece the length of how big around they thought my belly was. EVERY single person was too big, this preggo could not stop smiling. They were probably just being nice but still it made me feel like a million bucks. We got a ton of wonderful things, Luke is one blessed little boy. Tommy and I are so overwhemled with love and support.

Mom and Steph

Kyrsie and Stephanie, Yarn Contest Winners.

Britt Butt and I

The Hostesses

Then we had Thanksgiving. I L.O.V.E. Thanksgiving. For the last 3 years Tommy and I have hosted the Yours, Mine, and Ours Family Thanksgiving. Thats is all his parents and all my parents with all of the siblings.Don't worry, I don't do all the cooking. For one I just don't think I could do it and secondly who would want me to do the stuffing when you can have Tena's and no one wants my green beans over my moms. So we all pitch in and make it a family affair. This year the grand total was 15, I think. We have such a blast together. We eat, play games, take pictures, eat, laugh, watch T.V., eat and have just a big ole time! I love the time of year from Halloween to New Years. I know it gets busy but it is just so much fun to me.

And the icing on the cake... I got to watch Josh play in Texas High School football playoffs. If you don't live in Texas this is hard to understand. We love our high school football and you know this cheerleader to the core was in Heaven. They did so great. This was his teams first year to play Varisty and they made it all the way to Regionals. They even got to play on Kyle Field in College Station, where josh blocked an extra point so that his team won by one point in the last quarter. If you can imagine this stupid pregs jumped and started yelling totallly forgetting that I was in this "fragile" state. I got in trouble. No more jumping for me. They ended up losing to Dallas Skyline who were really fast and really mean, but we could not be prouder of our (I almost put little, but at 6'7" he can hardly be called little) 1st Team All District Defensive End.

After the Blocked Kick!

I think that pretty much sums up the last few weeks, showers, turkey, football and family. Yup thats it. I could not be any happier! Love you guys and talk to you soon!!!

Lots Going On!

2008-11-09T13:27:00.005-06:00

We have been so busy lately getting everything ready for Luke to make his big arrival. I can't believe that in about 8 weeks there will be a little boy laying in the crib and wearing the clothes in the closet. The sock monkey that has been our "dummy child" for everything from the swaddle lesson to the mini me backpack thing is in for a rude awakening.

A couple of weekends ago we had our first baby shower here in The LJ. Our sweet friends the Gilberts and Kyra hosted it and we had so much fun. I don't have any pictures to post of that right now because in all the hustle and bustle, baby brain took over and I did not take one picture. I know people out there have some but I just haven't got my hands on them yet. We were so spoiled we got A TON of things and everyone was asked to bring a book to start Luke's library. That was the most fun for me. Every time I pulled out a new book I got excited. We got books that I loved as a kid like "Robert and the Rose Parade" and "One Fish Two Fish." Tommy told me later that night that he thought it was funny that I got so excited because he had never heard of ANY of the books we got including "Where The Wild Things Are." But don't sit around and worry about this, I promptly sat him down and read all of the essentials, I mean seriously his son can not be born to a man who has never read "One Fish Two Fish" or "Go Dog Go." It just can't happen, I won't let it. So, crisis averted.

After our shower we went to Silsbee for Zackary's birthday party. That kid is just the cutest thing I have ever seen. He is so much fun. It is hard to believe he is walking now. He loves when people play the guitar so naturally he got one for his birthday day and I am telling you we have a prodigy on our hands. He holds it just like you are supposed to and positions his fingers as if he has a pick in them, it is hysterical. I can't wait to see these two boys playing together.

How Old Is Zackary?

He loves his guitar.

Besides all of that we have just been busy trying to get his room all put together. I have a couple of pictures of it but if I can get some better ones I will post those too. My Aunt Joy made the all bedding and curtains and they are perfect. His curtains even have his initials on them. It has become my favorite room in the whole house and every time I go in there I just smile. He is one blessed little boy to have so many people love him.

Please don't look at the mess on the dresser I am still trying to get organized.

And for all of you our there that have been nagging me about belly pictures (Angie!) here is another one. Also I have added a new feature to the blog, over on the right hand side you can sign up to get e mails sent to yourself when I update, that way you will always know if there is something new up and maybe that will entice some of you to leave comments so that I know people are actually reading this and I am not just rambling on to no one.

Our Return to College Staion.

2008-10-11T09:37:00.005-05:00

During my evacuation Tommy and I met in College Station one weekend so that we could watch his sister Erin dunk her ring. For those not "in the know" dunking your ring is a "tradition" at A&M. When you get your senior ring you drop it in a pitcher of beer and the chug the beer. It is very classy and safe. : /

Gig'Em Luke!

We went and had a great time even though Erin's showing at her ring dunk was...well... let's just say less than stellar, but we love her anyways. We also went out with some friends that were also in town. Let me tell you going out on the town with a belly that you are not all that used to yet and being surrounded by drunk college people is not all it's cracked up to be. You know those people you hate that rub up next to you as they walk by? Well with this abdominal projectile I am that person. I seriously underestimate the clearance needed for this belly. Not to mention my one MAJOR craving has been beer. So here I am sitting outside, pregnant, surrounded by girls WAY too dressed up for College Station, with everyone around me drinking the forbidden drink. Did I mention that there is only one bathroom in this joint? That's my idea of fun.

You have a baby...in a bar.

A high note for that weekend. I got to eat Freebirds (which gave me horrible indigestion, so bad in fact that a sweet woman saw me sitting and suffering and offered me Tums right out of her purse), we got to spend time with Erin, Big Mama, Thom and Diane. Oh and we saw a fight at Tommy's favorite pizza place Antonio's and the fight was actually over pizza. Shut up... fighting over pizza, what has happened to Aggieland?

So I have been HORRIBLE about updates!

2008-10-11T09:04:00.004-05:00

I know, I know. I said I would try to keep this thing updated but in all fairness we had company that threw our nice little world into chaos. He goes by the name of Hurricane Ike.

Before we get into the whole story, I will tell you our house had no damage and everything here is finally back to normal minus the forest of trees that are still in my backyard.

The Wrath of Ike

Mr. Risk Management had me evacuate on the Wednesday before the storm and before any type of evacuation notice had been issued. In true Andi form I put up a little argument because I didn't think the storm would be that big of a deal and I couldn't believe he was going to send me packing with a few weeks worth of clothes, some precious pictures, his unborn child and TWO CRAZY 50 POUND DOGS all in Sholonda the Honda. Seriously people. But he did, so off we (me, Avery and Mallory) headed to Ft. Worth for what would turn out to be a 2 week Hurri-cation. While there was no damage to the house a tree had fallen on our power line so we had no electricity for 2 solid weeks. Due to my "fragile" state we did not think it was a good idea for me to come home to the hot Houston weather and risk mass murder by pregs due to extreme heat. So I commenced on a Trip of Texas. I spent a few days in Ft. Worth, a few in Dallas, a few more in Silsbee, a couple in College Station, and as I was settling in for my Houston visit I got the glorious call from Tommy about the electricity being back. I hurried my tail home to see him because he was on Hurricane crew, so he had stayed home working the entire time. I didn't realize how much I like being home in my own little house until I was away and actually couldn't go back. Tommy says I am too attached to my "stuff". I tell him to shut up.

We only got our internet back up and running a couple of days ago and have been marathon painting with the help of Saint Mom and Saint Steven. They came and stayed a week to help Tommy and I paint every room (and ceiling) we could get to. That ended up being Luke's room, the hallway, the entry way, and the front living room. As well as get all of Luke's furniture into his room. They worked so hard and we are so grateful.

If you are still with me that shows true dedication. I will post again today with some pictures of Erin's Ring Dunk in College Station that happened during my Hurri-cation. It will include the long awaited...Belly pictures.

Our Little Boy!

2008-08-17T18:18:00.003-05:00

Tommy makes fun of me cause I think he is already cute. I mean look at that little nose, and he is sucking on his hand, what is not cute about that.

Our appointment was GREAT! It was so fun getting the big news and seeing how much he has grown. He was a funny little boy, he was playing peek-a-boo with us, when we were trying to get a good look at his face he would cover it up with his hands. He was doing the same with... well...his...bits. It was pretty funny. We did get to see him suck on his fingers and that was amazing and I was able to be sure that what I thought I was feeling is actually him moving. I will post more pictures so that you can see how much he has grown but for now I will let you simmer with this cuteness.

PS- Belly pics will be coming soon, there is actually something to see now.

It's a BOY!

2008-08-07T10:08:00.001-05:00

We found out its a boy, so much to do...we'll be back with more later.

Place Your Bets

2008-07-30T19:07:00.003-05:00

OK people, the time has come to place your bets on the gender of Sticky. We have one week until the big reveal and I am very curious what everyone thinks. I guess I should give you as much info as I can so that you can make an educated wager.

1. At the first two appointments the heartbeat was fast in the 150-160 range. At the last appointment it had slowed to about the 130-140 range.

2. I would post some pictures of how my belly looks but there isn't much change. By not much I mean people are constantly asking me when I am going to start looking pregnant, or when friends and I talk about having a baby people ask ever so sweetly, "who is expecting?"

3. I haven't had any crazy craving. That being said I said ZERO appetite for the first 14 weeks, however it is back. The only information I have to give you is I have been really craving breakfast food, waffles with peanut butter and syrup, brown sugar and cinnamon Pop Tarts and biscuits, and I have been really put off by meat.

That is really all I can offer as means of support for your guessing pleasure. I can say Tommy is thinking boy. I was really thinking boy but I have started saying her a lot. Who knows!

I am going 50 on pink, 50 on blue. What's your bet?

The Fabulous 4th!

2008-07-20T14:11:00.009-05:00

We spent the 4th of July in New Braunfels with my Dad, Tena, Kaye Ellen, Jason, Mandy, Heather, and Zack and the Guillory side of the family. We stayed at this incredible house that we will be going back to without a doubt. It had a huge yard with a hammock and outdoor fireplace. Rocking chairs and swings on the front porch. And a deer feeder right outside the back gate that at least 8 deer would come up to and eat at every morning and night. It was one of the most relaxing places I have ever been.

We went to a family reunion on Friday which was so fun. It is crazy how much all of that family looks just alike, it was like seeing my Granny Bonnette walking around everywhere you turn. And since it was the 4th we were treated to some great fireworks. Although there were not any of my favorite Tina Turner type ones it was so nice to be surrounded by so much family celebrating such an important day.

On Saturday we went to Schlitterbahn. I was told I could not do any of the ride and was cursed to watch all the fun most of the day. By the way I am a horrible spectator. I may have pouted at first and may have displayed a small amount of what Tommy likes to call pregna-tude. I soon realized that the water was FAR too cold for my liking and this kiddo is worth missing a few wild and crazy water slides. In the end I was allowed by the pregnancy police aka Tommy to ride one slide with him as a chaperone. IT WAS WONDERFUL! I laughed the entire time. I forgot how much fun those rides are.

On Sunday we went to the Outlets in San Marcus, my idea of heaven not so much for Tommy. The traffic was HORRENDOUS on the way home so Kaye Ellen, Jason, Tommy and I had to take the scenic route through "God's Country." Let me fill you in on a few things I learned and were discussed on this little adventure.

1. Hallettsville, Texas has the best looking cows in all of the state.

2. Tommy's idea of "God's country" and my idea of "God's country" are not the same. His includes...well nothing, wide open space and cows. Mine includes Target, Sonic, and a good shopping mall.

3. We have an idea for a certain type of "breath mints" that could make a fortune.

4. Sometimes the funniest times of a trip are in Sholanda the Honda with your family, laughing until you can hardly breathe.

Let the Countdown Begin

2008-06-19T19:55:00.002-05:00

We are assuming if you are reading this you know who we are, so we are skipping the formal introductions. However come December 31st ish, there will be one new introduction to take place, our first baby. For now he/she will be referred to as "Sticky." He/She got the name sticky because we found our very early that we were pregnant and we were just hoping and praying this little one would be sticking around for the long haul. We are now 12 weeks along and feeling great. (Andi only looks sick) Our next big appointment is in a few weeks and we will find out if Tommy will be painting the walls blue or pink.