The Earnests

14 Weeks

2012-02-13T21:36:00.001-06:00

February 7 – February 13, 2012

How far along? 14 weeks

How are you measuring? 14 weeks

Size of baby? Baby E is 3.4 inches, 1.5 ounces, and the size of a lemon.

Heartbeat? 164 at the doctor’s appointment on January 23.

Total weight gain/loss? Looking back on the week I have gained a total of 1.6 pounds. It’s really hard to tell my weight loss or gain due to how much my weight fluctuates anyway!

Maternity clothes? I wore a maternity dress this week to work. To be honest, I didn’t really have to wear it, but it was a cute winter looking dress my parents bought and mailed to me. The day before I wore the dress I was really uncomfortable after lunch in my dress pants, so I went ahead and busted out the maternity dress the next day for comfort!

Just a little side note about maternity wear – it looks like I will be in them sooner than later. I tried on several pair of my jeans and only 3 pair will actually still zip. I’m wearing my dress pants to work still with the button unbuttoned and shirts covering the top. I actually had a few people during the week comment about my “bump”. Even though I know you can’t tell by looking yet that I’m pregnant, my belly has definitely grown this week. Use to I would go to bed with a pooch and when I woke up it had gone down. This week was the first week the pooch didn’t go down! Looks like our baby is definitely growing in there!

Stretch marks? No.

Sleep? I had a few nights this week where I only had to go to the restroom 1 or 2 times, so I thought that was a great night’s sleep! I still seem to toss and turn a little more, and I really can’t remember the last time I slept through the night uninterrupted.

Best moment this week? Definitely getting to see B’s family over the weekend. We hadn’t seen them since Christmas, and it was so great to spend time with everyone!

Also, I went to my first consignment sale with Deb and Paula. We picked up a few maternity clothes items and a changing table for the baby’s room! I guess things are slowly becoming more real that soon we will have a little one!

Movement? Not yet.

Food cravings? I have been craving potatoes!!!! Mostly baked potatoes, but I am happy with anything potatoes. B’s grandmother made fried potatoes for Sunday dinner after church and I don’t know that I have ever been that happy about food!

Gender predictions? I guess we are leaning towards a boy, but I will not be convinced until our anatomy scan ultrasound at 19-20 weeks.

What I miss: This week I have missed riding in a car or sitting for long periods of time without feeling “pressure”. I know my posture is to blame and I need to work on sitting up straight, but it feels like I am already running out of room…I still have a LONG way to go!

What I'm looking forward to: There are so many things I looking forward to this next week. My mom is coming for a visit! We have lots of things on our agenda when she comes! She will be able to go to my doctor’s appointment with me, and I hope we are able to hear the heartbeat with the Doppler. After my appointment she is coming to work with me and I am taking her to lunch in Memphis. Saturday and Sunday we are planning on spending time shopping for a crib and cleaning out the baby room! I am so ready for quality time with my mom!

I am definitely looking forward to the doctor’s appointment and hearing the heartbeat! The most exciting thing about the doctor’s appointment on my mind is scheduling the date we will find out boy or girl (our next appointment)!

How are you feeling? Overall I can’t complain. I still have a “stretching and pulling” feeling in my lower belly, but I realize this is normal. I really have to be careful eating large meals because they make me feel so full and uncomfortable. I always felt like I might be getting a UTI this week, so I have been pushing the fluids and cranberry juice.

Symptoms? None really besides a bigger belly this week and frequent trips to the restroom!

Fun Weekend With Family!

2012-02-13T21:25:00.002-06:00

This past weekend we were able to take a quick weekend trip to see B's family! It seemed like it had been forever since we had seen them. We hadn't seen them since Christmas, so it was great to have time to spend catching up with them.

Saturday my sister in law, mother in law, my nieces and I loaded up for a quick shopping trip. I went to my very first consignment sale and picked up a changing table for the baby. I can't believe I bought my first piece of furniture for the baby's room! I also found a few maternity items at great prices. After consignment shopping we shopped for a little while at Target.

On Saturday night, Deb and I watched Addie and Aubrey while Paula and David attended a Valentine's Day banquet at their church. Aubrey and I watched Lady and the Tramp, one of my absolute favorite Disney movies!

Sunday we went to church and then had our normal Sunday dinner after church! It was such a nice weekend being able to visit with B's family! I am so blessed to have such a great "second family".

Here's a picture of me and Addie! She is growing up so fast!

And Aubrey! I can't believe how fast she is growing either! She always has fun with a camera!

13 Weeks

2012-02-06T20:09:00.000-06:00

January 31 - February 6, 2012

How far along? 13 weeks

How are you measuring? 13 weeks

Size of baby? According to Baby Bump, the baby is now 2.9 inches, and the size of a peach, and weighs .81 ounces.

Heartbeat? 164 at the doctor’s appointment on January 23.

Total weight gain/loss? This is getting harder and harder for me to measure! I had one morning where I looked to have gained 2 pounds, but then I ended up being right back where I started two mornings later. I am going to say my total weight gain from my first appointment till now is probably around 2 pounds.

Maternity clothes? I’m trying to hold out on the maternity clothes because I know I really don’t have that many items that are late winter/early spring friendly. I have one pair of jeans that I can still button that feel comfortable, and I am wearing my work pants with the button undone. Let’s hope I can hold on a bit longer!

Stretch marks? No.

Sleep? I’ve been sleeping ok. There have been a couple of nights this week where I woke up 4 times to use the restroom during the night! If it weren’t for those interruptions I would be sleeping great! Also, I am still able to sleep on my belly with my weight mostly on my hip. I know when I can no longer stand to sleep on my stomach it will be a bit different.

Best moment this week? Finding out my mom was coming for a visit in 2 weeks! I can’t wait to see her and start cleaning out the room that we will convert to the baby’s room!

Movement? Not yet, I wish I had a countdown for this!

Food cravings? DONUTS!!! A new donut shop opened only 3 minutes from our house and this has been our weakness the last two Saturday mornings. Ok, ok….so maybe we also had donuts Sunday morning for breakfast! To be honest, I haven’t really been eating that healthy and I know I need to change that! I definitely ate my share of queso dip and pizza rolls while we watched the Super Bowl. I don’t think this baby much cares for the healthy stuff I use to love, because after I eat it I feel terrible!

Gender predictions? Still trying to not get our hopes up from the last doctor visit, but I guess I am still leaning towards boy.

What I miss: This week I missed volleyball! Back at the beginning of the school year B and I were “recruited” for a co-ed league. We weren’t sure when the league started, but it is now in full swing. I went to the games on Saturday and had to sit in the bleachers while my team played. It was torture to be sitting while everyone played! I really want to keep going to the games and support B, but it really was hard to sit on the sidelines!

What I'm looking forward to: Looking forward to my next doctor’s appointment on February 17th, especially since my mom will be in town to go with me!

How are you feeling? I have been feeling great. I have been able to finally figure out the foods that make me feel “bad”, and I have been trying to avoid them.

Symptoms? No major symptoms. I have been having a dull cramping feeling in what I think is my uterus. I think it is probably stretching and things are adjusting. I wouldn’t say it has been painful, but it has definitely been uncomfortable. My energy level this weekend wasn’t the greatest, but I just have to remind myself I’m growing a baby!

12 weeks

2012-01-30T19:00:00.000-06:00

January 24 - 30, 2012

How far along? 12 weeks

How are you measuring? 12 weeks

Size of baby? According to Baby Bump, the baby is 2.1 inches, the size of a plum, and weighs .49 ounces.

Heartbeat? 164 at the doctor’s appointment on January 23.

Total weight gain/loss? 0 so far. I am sure that is getting ready to change!

Maternity clothes? I’m not wearing maternity clothes yet, but I have been able to buy some things on clearance. Hopefully I’ll be prepared when my clothes (especially pants) no longer fit.

Stretch marks? No.

Sleep? I’ve been getting pretty good sleep. I am still waking up 2-3 times to use the restroom, but I attribute that to being really thirsty at night. I know the main reason I keep having to get up in the middle of the night is because of all the water I am drinking before bed! I was pretty sleepy this weekend and was pretty lazy. I took a nap on Saturday and Sunday after staying in bed most of the morning.

Best moment this week? The best moment for me this week was sleeping in Saturday morning. I really didn’t sleep in like what I use to, but I definitely stayed in bed most of the morning. It was just what I needed after a busy and long work week.

Movement? Not yet, I am patiently waiting.

Food cravings? I am really craving sweet stuff, but again this is not the out of the norm for me! I made the mistake of going grocery shopping by myself when I hadn’t had supper yet. I walked out with quite a variety of sweet stuff. Barrett was cracking up when he was helping me unload the groceries.

Gender predictions? Take a look at my blog post about my doctor’s appointment. The ultrasound tech was pretty certain our little one was a boy. I realize it is way too early to truly be certain of the sex this early, but we would definitely not mind adding a little man to our family. I keep telling Barrett not to get his hopes up, but I think it’s too late. He fully believes it’s a boy now!

What I miss: I haven’t really missed anything this week. This really has nothing to do with my pregnancy, but I have been missing our families. I’m hoping we will be seeing them pretty soon.

What I'm looking forward to: Looking forward to my next doctor’s appointment on February 17th. I won’t be having an ultrasound, but we should be able to hear the baby’s heartbeat with the Doppler.

How are you feeling? I have been feeling good. I have had a couple nights during the week where I haven’t felt very good in the evening until I go to bed. Usually when I wake up in the morning I feel better.

Symptoms? Still no major symptoms. I am having some of the minor symptoms, but nothing major.

3rd Doctor's Appt - January 23

2012-01-29T11:51:00.000-06:00

On Monday, January 23, I had my third doctor’s appointment. Being honest, I think I was most excited about this appointment. I was excited to see the little one on the ultrasound again and excited he/she would look more like a baby this time. I also really had a good feeling everything was going to check out ok and after this appointment I would be treated like a normal pregnancy. I had such good feelings about the appointment (and since it was in the middle of the day) I told Barrett he didn’t need to take off work to come with me.

I arrived at the doctor and immediately needed to use the restroom. On all my other appointments as soon as you are called back, you have to provide a urine sample, so I waited in the waiting room hoping I would be called soon. I had to go! The longer I waited the more I was concentrating…it was getting pretty uncomfortable! Anyway, finally a lady came and called me back and I immediately recognized she was the ultrasound tech who performed my very first ultrasound. She led me into the ultrasound room and immediately started talking to me about the ultrasound. She said we would be doing a regular ultrasound today since the baby was bigger. The entire time I was thinking, “This should be fun…any pressure on my belly and I might wet my pants”. She went ahead and prepped me for the ultrasound. She found the baby pretty quick and immediately started laughing. The screen showed our little one head down and moving arms and legs everywhere! She kept saying, “This one is head down, I can’t see anything I need to see.” Then she told me she could tell I had a very full bladder (I could have told her that!!!). The baby kept wiggling and flailing its arms and legs but its back was to us, and we really couldn’t see anything! She told me she was going to adjust the exam table I was laying on to try and get gravity to work in our favor and make the baby move positions and hopefully would no longer be head down. When that didn’t work she told me it would probably be better to empty my bladder (whew – music to my ears).

After I finished in the restroom she prepped me again, and we started looking for the little one. Immediately we saw the baby had moved into a much more comfortable position! There was our little one – profile and all! He/she wasn’t moving anymore but looked just to be relaxing. The ultrasound tech started pointing things out to me and said she thought everything looked really good. The heart rate was 164! She said since our baby had a nasal bone that was evident and she didn’t see any fluid behind the head that we would not have had a positive Down’s test if we had opted to have the test. Barrett and I decided to not have the detailed test, but I appreciated her telling me some of the things they look for and saying our little one looked good. Here are a couple pictures!

I went ahead and decided to ask her when their office schedules the anatomy scan to find out what sex the baby is. I knew that you can have the scan anywhere from 16-22 weeks. She continued looking at the screen and told me that their office does the scan around 19-20 weeks. Then she asked if we were planning on finding out what we were having. Now, for those of you who know me, you understand my obsession with planning ahead. I have been ready to know what this baby is from day 1. The tech surprised me and said, “Do you want to find out what you are having today?” I looked at her with disbelief and then told her I would love to find out today. I was again disappointed B wasn’t there with me, but the planner in me took over! The tech told me, “It’s a boy!” She then went on to say that she can’t tell little girls this early, but there was obviously something sticking up and she had no doubt it was a boy. Now, I’m going to be perfectly honest…if you have been reading my weekly posts you know that I was starting to feel like it was a girl and everyone else also had the same feeling. I also realize that at 12 weeks this news isn’t always accurate. I know too many stories recently of people being told one sex and then the baby ended up being the other a few weeks later. However, the ultrasound tech was so certain, she decided to write on the remaining pictures she printed that it was a boy! Check these pictures out and see what you think. I guess only time will tell if we truly have a little boy on our hands or a little girl!

This is a "bottom shot view".

After leaving the ultrasound room I had to sit in another waiting room and wait for my doctor. I used the time to call B and my mom. B was literally giddy with the news. I am still having to remind him that he doesn’t need to get his hopes up about it being a boy since it is too early, but I think it is already too late! He is beside himself excited!

When it was time to see the doctor, she confirmed my feelings! She said everything looked great with the baby and with me. She also said the bleed was gone and there was no need to monitor me closely anymore. I was so excited! She released me for exercise and scheduled my next appointment for Friday, February 17th. Then she asked me if the tech had told me she saw something on the screen making her believe it was a boy. I told her yes, and she immediately told me to not go painting a nursery blue just yet. But, she did say this was her most experienced ultrasound tech, so we will just see!

After meeting with the doctor I met with the business office manager to go over my insurance/benefits. We also went over my hospital admission paperwork for me to turn in to the hospital where I will be delivering. I can’t believe I already need to be doing those things! After my meeting I am so very thankful for the maternity benefits I have through my health insurance at work. After meeting my deductible I am covered at 100% and my deductible is VERY reasonable.

My doctor’s appointment went great. I really like my doctor and the clinic’s practice. I can’t wait for my next appointment and especially can’t wait to find out in March for sure if we are having a boy or girl!

11 weeks

2012-01-27T21:19:00.001-06:00

January 17 - 23, 2012

How far along? 11 weeks

How are you measuring? 11 weeks

Size of baby? According to Baby Bump the baby is 1.6 inches; the size of a lime. The baby weighs .25 ounces.

Heartbeat? 164 at our doctor’s appointment on January 23rd.

Total weight gain/loss? 0. I put a notebook in the bathroom by my scale, and I have weighed and documented for over a week now. I am still fluctuating normal and haven’t been able to see actual weight gain.

Maternity clothes? Not yet. I am still unbuttoning my pants after meals and when I sit at my desk during the work day. I have started buying a few items online that are on clearance. I am still worried about finding pants that are long enough. Hopefully I’ll be able to wear my jeans and work pants with a Be Band for awhile when I can’t button them anymore.

Stretch marks? Not yet. Still applying lotion 1-2 times a day.

Sleep? Sleep has finally gotten better. I am still getting up about 2 times a night to use the restroom, but I am able to go back to sleep!

Best moment this week? I got a message on Thursday night. Barrett came home a couple weeks ago and surprised me with a one hour massage gift certificate! He said I had been stressed and he thought a massage might help him relax! It was so sweet, unexpected, and thoughtful! I went ahead and scheduled my massage thinking I would still be able to lay on my stomach this early on, but the therapist didn’t feel comfortable having me lay on my stomach. The massage was great and I was really relaxed! Another great moment was the doctor's appointment on the 23rd. It was great to see the little one again during the ultrasound.

Movement? Not yet. Still really looking forward to feeling this little one inside me!

Food cravings? I wouldn’t say I’ve had any weird cravings. Again, I am always one that has “cravings” or randomly wants something special to eat. I have noticed this week how wonderful cherry tomatoes taste! I have always liked tomatoes, but they have been especially good this week!

Gender predictions? Still reminding myself 50/50 chance. I think I have more wives tale signs saying it’s a girl, but we are still holding out hope we might have a little man on our hands. Stay tuned for the doctor's appointment post to see more information about this!

What I miss: On Saturday Barrett and I went to Starbucks and used a gift card I had received at Christmas. I miss not being worried about the amounts of caffeine in Starbucks drinks! I ended up settling for a simple hot chocolate after I looked up caffeine amounts on my phone! All my Starbuck’s favorite specialty drinks simply had too much caffeine for me to chance!

What I’m looking forward to: I’m really looking forward to finding out what we are having. In my spare time I have been browsing nursery themes and I am ready to start planning for this little one!

How are you feeling? Feeling good. I have had some nights this week where I felt really full and bloated. I have also had a few moments of pain in my lower abdomen. I really think it is all starting the growing process and it is my muscles stretching.

Symptoms? None. I have been really blessed in this pregnancy so far! Every week I think, “I am one more week closer to feeling like I’m having a baby!”

10 weeks

2012-01-27T21:14:00.000-06:00

January 10-16, 2012

How far along? 10 weeks

How are you measuring? 10 weeks

Size of baby? According to Baby Bump, our baby is 1.2 inches and the size of a prune. The baby weighs .14 ounces.

Heartbeat? 161 and 160 when it was measured at the doctor on December 29.

Total weight gain/loss? Not really sure. I will have a definite stat next week after I go to the doctor next week. I have also placed a notebook by the scale in the bathroom so I can track my weight daily!

Maternity clothes? Not wearing them yet. My sister in law gave me a tub of maternity clothes that I started trying on this week. I also went ahead and started the search for long maternity pants, and let me tell you it is rough finding pants to fit this inseam. I don’t need the maternity pants yet, but I want to make sure I have some when I do! I placed a couple orders online for some items on clearance so I will be ready when the time comes!

Stretch marks? No and still applying lotion!

Sleep? Getting better. I am still waking up 2-3 times to use the restroom during the night, but I have gone back to sleep pretty quick.

Best moment this week? I enjoyed going on two long walks with Bindi. I have been trying to really take it easy with the minor complications I have had, but I am getting stir crazy not doing any exercise. My doctor didn’t tell me not to exercise – only no vigorous exercise. I just decided to be on the safe side and take a good break. I have to admit walking 1.5 brisk miles had me a little winded! I am ready to get in a good walking routine!

Movement? No. I started thinking this week that I am working my way closer to “showing” and feeling the baby. I am getting excited about that!

Food cravings? I have food craving all the time, but that is really no different than when I wasn’t pregnant! I have always been one to have cravings, and I think it is just because I like food! Still very thirsty and drinking lots of water and juice. I am amazed at how thirsty I feel all the time!

Gender predictions? I guess I am starting to feel like we might be having a girl. I think so many people in my family and Barrett have said they think we are having a girl that I have started believing it! Then I have to remind myself there is still that 50/50 chance!

What I miss: I miss waking up in the mornings and having a somewhat flat belly! Ha – I know that sounds selfish but I have quite the bloat belly going on! I know my belly will only get bigger, but I am ready for the bump to be baby and not bloat!

What I'm looking forward to: My doctor’s appointment on Monday, January 23rd. I am suppose to have another ultrasound and then sit down and talk insurance and payment plans. I am actually anxious for both, but especially seeing our little one again. I have a really good feeling about this appointment and I’m hoping I’ll be considered a normal healthy pregnancy after Monday!

How are you feeling? I feel great! Again, I am just really surprised that there is a little one growing inside of me! I haven’t been sick and I really haven’t had the “waves of exhaustion” that so many talk about. I am so blessed that this pregnancy has been easy on my body so far!

Symptoms? No real symptoms besides a bloated belly, and I am very thankful for that!

9 weeks

2012-01-27T21:10:00.002-06:00

January 3 - 9, 2012

How far along? 9 weeks

How are you measuring? 9 weeks

Size of baby? According to Baby Bump .9 inches and the size of a green olive. The baby weighs approximately .07 ounces.

Heartbeat? Still using the heartbeat from our appointment on December 29 – 161 and 160.

Total weight gain/loss? Still not entirely unsure. I don’t think I have really gained anything. My weight continues to fluctuate every morning, so it is hard to definitively tell.

Maternity clothes? No. I broke out the belly band this week with a pair of my tighter waisted work pants. I dread trying to find maternity pants long enough for my legs!

Stretch marks? No – I am still lotioning up every day!

Sleep? Still struggling with sleep. I have been fighting a sinus infection most of the week and it has been tough sleeping with a scratchy throat and congestion. I am still getting up at least twice during the night to use the restroom.

Best moment this week? My husband coming home and surprising me with a gift card for a one hour massage. He really has been AWESOME! Of course another amazing moment was when Alabama won the National Championship! OH – and we officially booked our “Babymoon” in New York for the spring!

Movement? Not yet, I know it won’t be for awhile, but I have been wondering when I would feel that baby. I think once I finally feel him/her it will all feel more real to me!

Food cravings? Nothing major. I have been doing a better job eating healthier lunches and I have really enjoyed my raw veggies and yogurt!

Gender predictions? B continues to call the baby by our boy name, but still thinks deep down it is a girl. I still really don’t have a feeling!

What I miss: Not being bloated. I don’t have a baby bump, but I definitely have a good bit of bloat going on in my middle area.

What I'm looking forward to: Looking forward to my doctor’s appointment on the 23rd!

How are you feeling? I have been feeling pretty good this week – though the sinus infection has been wearing me down.

Symptoms? Still no pregnancy symptoms. I am so thankful for an easy first trimester so far! I know that I am especially blessed to not have experienced morning sickness!

8 weeks

2012-01-25T21:08:00.001-06:00

December 27-January 2, 2012

How far along? 8 weeks

How are you measuring? The embryo measured 8 weeks and 3 days at my doctor’s appointment on the 29th. The doctor changed our due date to 8/7/12!

Size of baby? According to Baby Bump .63 inches and the size of a raspberry. The embryo weighs .04 ounces.

Heartbeat? The ultrasound tech measured the heartbeat at two different times during our ultrasound. The first time the heart rate was 161 and the second time it was 160!

Total weight gain/loss? +2 from my last doctor’s appointment. I am attributing the Christmas holiday food to those two pounds!

Maternity clothes? No – but I have started unbuttoning my pants!

Stretch marks? Not yet, still applying lotion!

Sleep? Still waking up 2-3 times a night for a bathroom trip.

Best moment this week? Going to the doctor with my husband and us seeing our little baby! It was awesome to experience it this time with him! Also spending New Year's with my family!

Movement? Not yet.

Food cravings? Orange Juice! I use to drink coffee every morning, and now I don’t want coffee at all. Orange juice is SO good right now!

Gender predictions? Barrett admitted that he thinks we are having a girl (even though he wants a boy). I still really don’t have a feeling.

What I miss: Still missing a good night’s sleep and being able to sleep in!

What I'm looking forward to: Going for another doctor’s appointment on January 23. I am ready to be able to exercise again!

How are you feeling? Feeling good. Still don’t feel pregnant!

Symptoms? This week was the first week that I have felt really tired. I hated that I was so tired during our visit to my parents’ house, but I simply could not hang with them! I did good to see the ball drop on New Year's when I woke up from my “nap”!

Second Doctor's Appt. - 12/29/11

2012-01-25T21:04:00.000-06:00

My second doctor’s appointment was scheduled for Thursday, December 29th at 9am. My doctor had scheduled a follow up ultrasound to check on the healthy baby and also see if I still had a bleed. I was really excited, because Barrett was able to come to this appointment with me!

We waited in the waiting room for a little while and then it was time for the ultrasound. I hadn’t really been nervous about the appointment, but right before we went back I started getting pretty nervous. I just wanted everything to be ok with our little one.

Once we were situated in the ultrasound room it was time to see our little one. I thought it was really neat because our ultrasound tech was pregnant. Anyway, she immediately found the little one! After a couple seconds she looked at me and Barrett and said, “Y’all knew you were having twins right?” My mind immediately interpreted her question the wrong way and I know I had a weird look on my face. I looked at Barrett and back at her and then told her that we knew there had been two but we had lost one. She shook her head and said, “I’m so sorry”. I don’t think she realized how she had worded her question, but when Barrett and I talked about it later we both had interpreted the question to mean there were two and we were again having twins. There was a moment where we both were stunned! I guess that was the hardest part of this second appointment. I was really thinking my body would have “taken care” of the one that didn’t make it and I wouldn’t see it again on the ultrasound, but I was wrong. It really was ok, just gave me more of a reason to believe God wanted us to know there had been two blessings at one time!

The tech went ahead and took measurements of the failed embryo and the entire time she apologized. I had to keep telling her that it was ok, we had had time to process and grieve, and we were at peace with it all. I think it was hard for her simply because she was pregnant and she also shared with us she had had a miscarriage before this pregnancy. I appreciated her apologetic attitude and sensitivity (minus the wording of the first question)!

Then we were able to spend some time looking at and examining our little one! The heartbeat measured 160 and it was the coolest experience to hear the heartbeat this time! Barrett immediately said, “That is so cool!”---and it really was! It was incredible to see how much growth had taken place during the two weeks since the last ultrasound. She also talked to us about our due date. I originally thought our due date would be 8/10/12, but based on the measurements of the baby, she moved my due date up three days. Our little one’s new due date is 8/7/12! Again, I appreciated how much time the tech spent explaining where everything was. She even wrote a few main body parts on our pictures so we would be able to decipher what was what. She told us that by this point the baby could move and sometimes they can pick it up “jumping”. She said that sometimes when she measures the heartbeat is when they jump. She measured the heartbeat again (this time 160) but we weren’t able to see it move. I appreciated her spending that much time with us and she really was very friendly! We were able to get three pictures of our little one!

After our ultrasound we were able to talk with my doctor. She did the quick genetic screen questionnaire – talking about family health history. Then she talked to us about the ultrasound. She said that everything looked great with the baby, but I was still showing a bleed at the bottom of the healthy baby’s “sack”. She said that it wasn’t anything to be too worried about, but told me to take it easy for the next 3 weeks and she wanted to see me again for a follow up appointment. I was a little disappointed that I still wasn’t 100% in the clear – I know during the early part of pregnancy you are never really in the clear, but it is still a little unnerving.

Before we left the doctor’s office I had some lab work done and scheduled my next appointment for Monday, January 23rd.

Barrett was such a trooper for this appointment. I know the only “fun” part for him was the ultrasound, and that was done within the first 30 minutes of the appointment. We were at the doctor’s office almost 2 hours due to waiting and going through the different “stations” as I like to call them. His back had also been bothering so having to sit in between the “stations” wasn’t comfortable for him. I’m thankful he was there to support me!

Anyway, everything seems to be looking good. I am again excited for the next appointment to see how much more this little one has grown, and I’m hoping I can finally be on track for a “normal” healthy pregnancy!

7 weeks

2012-01-25T21:00:00.000-06:00

December 16-December 22

How far along? 7 weeks

How are you measuring? 7 weeks

Size of baby? My Baby Bump app says .51 inches and the size of a blueberry. The embryo weighs .04 ounces.

Heartbeat? I was able to see the heart beat on the ultrasound, but the embryo wasn’t developed enough for the heart beat to be measured.

Total weight gain/loss? Not since my doctor appointment.

Maternity clothes? No. Some of my pants are feeling a little uncomfortable around the middle.

Stretch marks? No. I am already putting lotion on twice a day.

Sleep? Still having trouble sleeping, but now I am waking up 2-3 times to use the restroom. After I get up it is really hard for me to go back to sleep.

Best moment this week? Having Christmas with Barrett’s family and getting my first maternity shirt. It says, “Future Bama Baby”!

Movement? Not yet.

Food cravings? Not really. I have randomly wanted a glass of milk. I have always liked milk, but I am not one to drink it regularly.

Gender predictions? Not really sure. Once I start thinking one way or the other I am reminded it is a 50/50 chance!

What I miss: Nothing really. I am missing getting a good night’s sleep, but I can’t really complain.

What I'm looking forward to: Going to see my parents for the New Year and my doctor’s appointment on the 29th.

How are you feeling? Feeling good. I am still amazed that I am pregnant, because I really thought I would feel different!

Symptoms? I have had a few minor waves of nausea, but nothing really to complain about.

6 Weeks

2012-01-24T20:46:00.000-06:00

On of my blogger friends, Katy Link, did an excellent job of documenting her pregnancy. I completely copied her idea and plan to do a post for each week of my pregnancy. I am mainly doing it for a scrapbook for myself, but thought it would be a fun way for family and friends to keep up with us!

Thanks for the idea, Katy!

December 9 - 15, 2011

How far along? 6 weeks

How are you measuring? At my doctor appointment yesterday, the ultrasound tech thought the embryo looked to be well over 6 weeks but not yet 7. I am going to keep it the same until my doctor officially tells me differently.

Size of baby? Baby center says it is the size of a sweet pea.

Heartbeat? The ultrasound tech detected the heartbeat, but it was still too early to really hear and get the BPM. It was so awesome seeing the heartbeat flashing in the “little bean”.

Total weight gain/loss? I have lost 6 pounds since my physical (before I was pregnant) November 18, and not from morning sickness! I had actually started dieting the week before I found out I was pregnant.

Maternity clothes? Not yet, but I do confess I am unbuttoning the top button on my pants after meals. It is so much more comfortable!

Stretch marks? Not yet, but I am thinking they will be inevitable. I have already purchased “stretch mark massage cream” so we will see…

Sleep? I have really had a hard time sleeping. I don’t know if it is still me getting use to the idea of being pregnant and not being able to shut off my mind, or what. Since we found out we were pregnant I have probably only had 3-4 nights of uninterrupted sleep. It isn’t even because I am in the bathroom all night…I am just waking up and can’t go back to sleep.

Best moment this week? Being able to see the ultrasound. I so wish Barrett could have been there, but it wasn’t a planned ultrasound.

Movement? Not yet.

Food cravings? No. I have had a few nights that I wanted a glass of milk, which is pretty out of the norm for me. I also like raw vegetable, but they have really been tasting good for part of my lunch!

Gender predictions? We just want a healthy baby, but of course B would love a little boy. I really don’t have any feelings yet.

What I miss: I miss not being worried about what I’m eating. I was really doing a good job before I found out I was pregnant.

What I'm looking forward to: Going back to the doctor on December 29 for another ultrasound. I am really excited about this one since Barrett will be able to go with me this time!

How are you feeling? This week has been quite the whirlwind between the doctor's appointment and getting use to the whole idea of being pregnant. :)

Symptoms? My only symptoms have been mild cramping and bloating. Just feeling a little uncomfortable but nothing major! I am hoping I can get through this first trimester without morning sickness, so we will see! Other than my mild symptoms I feel normal. I have to keep telling myself I’m pregnant!

First Doctor's Appt. 12/15/11

2012-01-24T20:38:00.002-06:00

I had called my doctor on Monday, December 5, as soon as they opened. When they scheduled my appointment, I went ahead and asked them if an ultrasound or anything exciting would be done since I wanted Barrett to come with me for the “big stuff”. The lady told me that nothing like that would be done at this first appointment and all they would be doing was “confirming the pregnancy”.

The doctor’s appointment went pretty normal…at first. They went ahead and took a urine sample and then I waited to see the doctor. While the doctor and I were talking, I mentioned that I had been having some cramping and really bloated feelings. I only mentioned it, because I was under the impression that was normal. She immediately decided that they would go ahead and do an ultrasound just to make sure that I wasn’t experiencing a tubal pregnancy. The doctor went ahead and warned me that it might still be too early in my pregnancy for them to be able to detect a heartbeat, but they just wanted to make sure the baby was set up where he/she was suppose to be! I was immediately excited and disappointed. I was excited that I would get to see if there really was a baby in there, but I was disappointed that Barrett wasn’t with me to see it!

After another wait in the waiting area for the ultrasound tech, I was positioned looking at a screen waiting to see what was growing inside me! She immediately found the embryo and told me she thought I might be measuring a few days further along than I thought. I was able to see a very tiny flashing on the screen and she told me that was the heartbeat. She wasn’t able to measure the heart rate, but it was beating! Immediately the tech moved the view to another similar looking “sack” on the opposite side of the screen. I really wasn’t sure what it was, but I went ahead and asked her, “Is that another view of the embryo?” I don’t think anything could have prepared me for her answer. She then told me that, “No, it isn’t another view. This little embryo didn’t make it. You had been pregnant with twins.” There are really no words I can write to describe my rush of emotions. #1 – I was shocked that I HAD been pregnant with twins! There had been two little babes growing inside me! #2 – I was so saddened it brought me to tears thinking of one of the little one not making it.

After the ultrasound it was time to head back to the waiting room and wait to see the doctor. I was so numb and really didn’t know how to feel. I was really holding it together. I couldn’t really talk to Barrett or my parents, but I sent them a text about what was going on. I still really didn’t believe it. I guess the reality in a way was setting in that I was having a baby – I had seen the little “bean” on the screen. Then, I was hit with this unexpected news that another one hadn’t made it.

After a few minutes the doctor spoke with me about what the ultrasound had revealed. She stated that I had experienced “failed twin or a vanishing twin”. However, she said the other embryo looked great. She mentioned me having a little bit of a bleed and that I needed to take it easy for a couple weeks and come back to make sure everything was still going ok. She told me not to worry that a lot of times when this type of thing happens a woman’s body would take care of the other embryo, and I should have a normal pregnancy. And that was it...

I really did a great job holding it together…until I called my mom. I guess the emotions of staying strong in a doctor’s office finally had caught up with me. My mom was upset too I think we were all shocked by the news. I was finally able to talk with Barrett on the phone (he was in class during the whole ordeal and could only communicate through text). I think it shook us both up pretty good, but we know all things work together for good and this was all God’s plan.

I have to admit, it is a weird grieving process for something like this. You are sad about the one that didn’t make it, but you don’t want to dwell on sadness for the one that is healthy and doing good. Since my doctor’s appointment I have done a lot of reading about Vanishing Twin Syndrome. Everything I read discusses how it is a common occurrence but most women do not know it happens, because they do not have an ultrasound that early in their pregnancy. I guess I took that the wrong way because I felt by saying it was a common occurrence it was belittling to the fact that this other baby didn’t make it. Though this may be a “common occurrence”, it was still a baby (our baby) and God wanted me to know about him/her. What a wonderful blessing to know that we had been blessed with not one but two!

I don’t think a day has gone by since that appointment that I haven’t thought about the one we lost. I still have feelings of disbelief that I am even pregnant, much less that we could have had two. I am so thankful for our faith in the Lord and in knowing that He has everything in His hands. This whole process has been the Lord’s timing and I am so excited to see what God has planned for this little one growing inside me. Thank you Jesus for these blessings and Your faithfulness!

Telling Our Families

2012-01-24T20:35:00.003-06:00

I’m not one that does a good job keeping secrets, so we didn’t wait very long to tell our families. On Monday, December 5, we decided to tell both of our immediate families the news. We decided to tell my parents first since this would be their first grandbaby! I knew that I wanted to be able to at least see my parents’ faces, so we decided to Skype them. I tried to play off to my brother why I wanted them to get on Skype, so I think I told him I was really missing everyone and wanted to see them. The first thing I asked them was if they could make a trip to West Tennessee to come see us in August. My mom just looked really confused and my dad immediately said, “Hold on let me do the math”. I know they were excited about the news, but I also know they were SUPER shocked. Soon after we told my mom, dad, and Reid, Lisa - Reid's fiance came over. I told her the news and she just really didn't believe us. I really don't know how many times we had to tell her we weren't joking! The call ended with my family and I think everyone was still mainy in shock - but VERY excited!

After getting off the computer with my parents we decided to call Barrett’s family. Barrett went ahead and told his dad and we could hear him in the background while he was telling Barrett’s mom, sister, and brother in law. They were all thrilled for us and excited for grandbaby #3.

It was really fun being able to tell our families our news. I really wish we could have told our families in person, but we just had to do the best we could being far away!

It is so nice having great families who support us, love us, and already are crazy about this little one!

Finding Out We Were Having a Baby!

2012-01-24T20:31:00.000-06:00

It was the weekend of December 3rd. Barrett was out of town at the Tennessee High School football state championship games. I had decided I would go ahead and get his Christmas present, and on the way home I would stop and get a pregnancy test just to relieve my mind from thinking there was a slight chance I might be pregnant.

I headed to Best Buy to pick up B's present and on the way home stopped to get something to eat and also a pregnancy test from Walgreen's. When I got home, I unloaded the Christmas present and ate my dinner. Then I remembered the test, so I went ahead and took it. The whole time I was buying the test and even while I was taking it, I just knew it wasn't going to be positive. You can imagine the disbelief on my face when that little test immediately turned +. To be honest, I just looked at it in disbelief, then I decided I would just wait until I had to go to the bathroom and take the other test (3 were in the pack). Well, a little while later, and 3 positive tests, I still didn't really believe it!

I knew I had to tell Barrett first, but he wasn't going to be home until the next afternoon. I also knew this news wasn't something that I could tell him over the phone, so I had to sit and wait. I ran through every reaction I though he might have (good and bad). I don't think I slept at all that night! I have to admit I was pretty worried about telling him since we had really thought we wanted to wait at least a couple more years before starting our family.

Fast forward to the next day and the closer it got to him coming home the more anxious and nervous I was. I met him at the door as soon as I heard the car pull in the drive way. As soon as he walked in I immediately burst into tears and really couldn't even talk. I had so many emotions going through my mind, but I was mainly worried about how he would react to the news. I told him he needed to go look in the bathroom. He went into our bathroom (obviously worried and not sure what was wrong). As soon as he came out he immediately hugged me and told me everything was going to be ok. I was so thankful for his reaction and I knew right then everything was how it was suppose to be.

I want to share with everyone our reaction. Please understand we are happy and excited about this wonderful gift God has given to us. We were just not expected this little blessing this early. We have a peace that this is definitely God's timing and His will, but I want to share with you the honesty in the moment of finding out for us.

Thank you Lord for your precious gift!

Our BIG news!

2012-01-23T20:34:00.000-06:00

Baby Earnest is due 8/7/12!!!!

What an unexpected and exciting miracle and blessing from the Lord!

Christmas 2011

2012-01-08T21:29:00.002-06:00

I did a TERRIBLE job taking pictures this Christmas. I really don't have an excuse :(.

We spend Christmas with Barrett's family in Tennessee. We celebrated at least three different times with different parts of his family. It was nice to see his family. Since we moved and live out on our own, it is harder not seeing family every other or every few weekends. It has definitely made spending time with family precious to us.

Below is a group picture we took.

We hope everyone had a Merry Christmas with family and friends!

The next weekend we were able to travel to Texas to spend New Year's with my family!
I didn't do a good job taking pictures during that visit either. I don't know what my deal was, must have been in some sort of picture funk! I'll try to share my family's New Years card on the blog soon!

San Antonio

2012-01-08T14:48:00.005-06:00

After seeing my grandparents, we headed to San Antonio to spend the rest of our Thanksgiving Holiday! I can remember being a kid and watching the Holiday River Walk Parade that is a tradition in San Antonio on the Friday after Thanksgiving. Barrett had never been to San Antonio and it was so fun to experience it with him and my family. Here we are on Friday exploring the city!

Lisa and Reid at the River Walk! Soon to be newlyweds!
And the people who made the trip happen! My parents! Thanks Mom and Dad!

I snapped this picture as we were walking to the Alamo!

I also snapped this picture of Lisa and Reid walking!

So cute!

We took a River Walk boat tour that was really informative.

Here is a picture of B waiting to get in the Alamo!

I loved this tree!

Remember the Alamo!

Dad and Mom in front of the Alamo!

I loved this tree full of everything Texas! Unfortunately, B was tired of having his picture take, so I took one of Reid and Lisa!

On Friday night we had reservations at Rio Rio on their patio. We were able to eat a Mexican food buffet and sit on the patio for the River Walk Holiday boat parade!

Our seats were great and the drinks were good too! I love this picture of my Mom and Dad! Definitely my favorite of the trip!

With my honey!

Lisa and Reid!

All the kids!

Weren't our seats great? I know you really can't see much, but we had one of the front tables on the patio!

Mom and Dad! I loved the setting of this picture!

My future sis-in-law and me!

And my handsome husband!

It was definitely a quick, but really fun trip. We woke up Saturday morning and headed back to my parent's house. We had to make it back in time to watch the Iron Bowl! It was such a fun time with my family!

Thanksgiving 2011

2012-01-08T14:01:00.005-06:00

For Thanksgiving this year it was our year to be in Texas. It is so funny being married and designating our holidays. Sounds like visitation rights or something! Anyway, we headed to Texas on Tuesday. Wednesday we hung out with Dad and Reid while Mom had to work. On Thursday, we headed to Sherman to have Thanksgiving lunch at Nana's and see Granny and Papa.

I was so happy to see Rhonda!!

Rhonda and Jacob at Nana's. Such a cute and sweet couple! Love them!

My itty bitty Nana. I just love looking at pictures of us together. She is just precious!

Reid got Nana a Rangers shirt awhile back, but hadn't given it to her!

She is the #1 fan!

Rhonda and Nana!

And another cousin Corrie with Nana!

It was a wonderful Thanksgiving Day! I didn't do a good job of taking pictures when we went to see Granny and Papa. After leaving Granny and Papa's house we headed back to my parents to get packed up to head to San Antonio for a mini vacation!

Catch Up Session

2011-12-14T21:09:00.010-06:00

Wow where have I been??? Every time I thought to update the blog I was depressed with how behind I was. I decided to condense what has been going on in our lives since we moved in July. Here is what happened in our lives over the last 4-5 months....

B coached his 4th football season at Brighton. Here are a few of the pictures from the season:

This is my favorite! Love my hubby and this is one of our favorite players! :)

Sorry this picture isn't very big, but it is the team shot for this year. B is the coach on the very end on the left. He is kinda standing away from the group...not really sure why!

I thought it was awesome that Brighton had a football helmet and smoke machine for the "big entrance" every Friday night!

They finished their season 10-2, so it was a great season!

At the beginning of August the Brocks and Higgins came to visit! I was so so excited to have friends who are more like family to visit us and see our new place!

We ate at Rendezvous one night!

We also had Kooky Canucks!

On Saturday morning we stuffed ourselves at Alcenia's. It was great food and we had a blast!

Thanks Brocks/Higgins for coming to visit!!!

Moving on to September....

On 9/7/2011 we were blessed with another niece, Addie Reese!

Look at those little beauties! It is so fun being an aunt!

The weekend I went to meet Addie I took Aubrey for her first time Chuck-E-Cheese. You talk about fun!!

Here she is meeting Chuck-E!

All those games....

All those tickets....

And the tunnels....

I think she had a great time!

On 10/6/11 Mom and Dad came in for the weekend. We have a benefit for work called "Feed the Soul". Needless to say, we had a great time and a fun weekend!

On 10/15/11 we went to the Ole Miss Alabama game!

Me and Natalie!

Us at the game! :)

Rylie and B after the game!

On 10/28/11 B's family was finally able to come down and see our new place! :) We were both really excited they were able to come!

Of course more niece time! :)

On 11/5/11 I met Mom, Dad and Reid in Tuscaloosa for the LSU Bama weekend.

Reid was pumped to be able to get his picture with Devin from the show, "Sweet Home Alabama".

Reid and Dad at the game! Roll Tide!

Walking around campus! Reid, Mom and me!

The weekend before Thanksgiving we headed to see B's family. Of course more niece time!

We were also able to get together with all of our friends for dinner, bowling and blizzards. Luke and Kristen announced they were expecting a baby in June!

I know that was just a quick snapshot of the last few months! I will post Thanksgiving pictures and pictures from our trip to San Antonio next!

A Break From Unpacking

2011-07-13T10:29:00.008-05:00

My family was so awesome to come help us move over July 4 weekend. We didn't have a lot of "fun time" because so much of it was spent organizing and settling our house. Well, maybe I should rephrase it to "free time" because we have fun no matter what we are doing! :)

Sunday we headed to Memphis to the world famous Peabody Hotel to catch the Peabody ducks make their great entrance to the fountain. If you have never been to the Peabody, I highly recommend it! The hotel is beautiful and the architecture is breathtaking! Here is a picture of everyone waiting on the ducks to march!

Here is a picture of a beautiful chandelier in one of the many ballrooms.

Two of the most important ladies in my life! I'm so glad Nana came!

Here's a video I shot while the ducks marched. You can't see them walking the red carpet, but if you look closely at the entrance of the fountain you will see them walk/jump on in!

(Don't mind my voice! I was disappointed when everyone who was supposed to be sitting down stood up and blocked every one's view!)

From our "perch" where we watching the ducks!

After leaving the Peabody we walked around downtown. Here is a picture of Autozone Park. It is right across the street from The Peabody Hotel and the Doubletree.

I love this picture of us in front of the Hard Rock!

We ended up eating at Blues City Cafe and it was DELICIOUS! Check out my half rack ribs meal. I was so stuffed after eating this, but it was so yummy!

After everyone ate, we headed back to the house. We ended up making stop at Walmart on the way home to pick up a few items for the house. Trust me, we made too many trips to Walmart while my parents visited!!!

I'm sure there will be plenty of posts about Memphis in the future while Barrett and I get accustomed to our new home! :)

Relocation

2011-07-11T18:27:00.004-05:00

Sorry for the lack of blogging. To say we have been busy is an understatement! I wanted to blog so bad that I actually am sitting in a McDonald's because we don't have Internet set up at our house yet. Our big news is we have moved! We are now in West TN! B got a new coaching job and we decided to take the plunge and move to a new area. We are actually only about 45 minutes north of Memphis! A HUGE shout out to my mom, dad, nana and Reid for helping us move! There is no way I could have got everything done or looking so good without their help! I promise to blog more after we get our Internet set up on Wednesday! For now, enjoy a little glimpse at our new place!

View of the front...we are still working on "curb appeal" :)

The living room! I am so excited about this room, because we were able to buy all new furniture! Mom and Nana were great at helping me decorate!

One view of the kitchen.

Another view of the kitchen from the back door.

Our Bedroom

B's favorite room! Our Alabama room/office

High School Graduation

2011-06-11T10:33:00.002-05:00

Sorry I haven't blogged in awhile! We have been really busy! I will try to catch up on a few blog posts!

High School Graduation was on Friday night May 20. This was Barrett's 3rd and last graduation at the High School. We are going to be relocating to the Memphis area at the beginning of July! I will save all the details about that for another post, but now you can imagine why we are so busy! :)

Here's a picture of the graduates on the field!

After graduation everyone goes down on the field and takes pictures. I didn't take any pictures but these are two students we love! They won't be graduating until next year and the year after, but I saved this picture they took!

After the ceremony we went to a combined graduation party for a few of the graduates.

Congrats Class of 2011!

Nacho Bake

2011-05-09T19:11:00.006-05:00

Tonight I tried a new recipe for supper and I know I will definitely be making it again!

B LOVED it!

Here is what you will need:

1 12 oz package of velveeta shells and cheese

1 lb of ground beef (we used ground turkey)

1 package of taco seasoning

3/4 cup of water

3/4 cup of sour cream (we used low fat)

3/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese (we used 1 cup)

3/4 cup of salsa

1/2 cup of tortilla chips

Here's what you will do:

Make the shells and cheese

Brown ground beef, drain, add taco seasoning and water.

Let simmer for 5 minutes.

Stir sour cream into the shells and cheese

The recipe called for an 8" square dish, but I used our normal casserole dish

Put half of the shells and cheese mixture as the first layer. Place taco meat on top. Place half of the shredded cheddar as the next layer, then place the rest of the shells and cheese mixture on top.

Cover and bake on 400 for 15 minutes.

Finally, top with salsa, the rest of the cheddar cheese and crushed chips.

Bake uncovered for 5 minutes.

Cool and enjoy!

(I realize this is not the most attractive picture, but the finished product is delicious!!!)

Happy 3rd Birthday

2011-05-06T22:57:00.004-05:00

Our niece, Aubrey Grace turned 3 on May 5.

She had her birthday party at the park on Friday, May 6!

Here she is opening all her presents...

Our "traditional picture"!

I have a picture from all three of her birthday parties just like this!

I even snuck a picture with my honey!

Happy 3rd Birthday Aubrey! You bring so much joy to our lives!

Uncle B & Aunt Katie love you so much!

High School Prom

2011-04-30T20:31:00.000-05:00

Friday, April 29, was the High School Prom. Since my hubby is a Junior class sponsor, he had to attend. I was so lucky to be able to attend as his date! The picture above is of the cafeteria transformed for prom. I really didn't do a good job taking pictures, but I did get a picture of my handsome date....

Isn't he handsome?!?

Chocolate Pie

2011-04-30T20:12:00.006-05:00

I LOVE chocolate pie and it is so easy to make!

Here are the things you will need:

- 1 cup of sugar

- 5 tablespoons of flour

- 3 tablespoons of cocoa

- 3 eggs yolks

- 1 stick of margarine

- 1.5 cups of milk

- 1.5 teaspoons of vanilla

Here is what you will do:

Put stick of margarine in a medium saucepan to melt. Mix sugar, flour, and cocoa together. Next you will beat the egg yolks, milk and vanilla together. Pour all ingredients into the saucepan and cook on medium heat, stirring occasionally. Once the mixture in the saucepan becomes thick, you can pour the mixture into a pie shell!

We usually top our chocolate pie with cool whip, but you will want to make sure the pie has chilled for a little while before topping!

Enjoy!

Pressure Cooking

2011-04-30T09:00:00.000-05:00

You may remember me talking about my mother-in-law (MIL) giving me a pressure cooker for my birthday! My MIL can cook! She makes such great dishes and always uses a pressure cooker. I was a little nervous about using one, but decided I would love to have one for my birthday! I wanted to document and blog my first experience of cooking with it!

Here she is!

I wanted to start with making chicken...a whole one!!! I started by gutting and trimming some of the fat off the chicken. I made sure to cut off the tail, because it was just gross! Then I washed the chicken really well!

After trimming and rinsing I placed the whole chicken in the pressure cooker and filled it with water about half way.

I locked the lid in place and put the cooker on the stove on high heat.

Once it started to jiggle I cut the heat down to where it only jiggled every now and then. Once I cut the heat down I set the timer for 15 minutes.

Since it was the first time I used the pressure cooker with my stove, I started a timer from the beginning. I found that it took about 20 minutes for the cooker to get "pressurized" and 15 minutes to cook the chicken....not bad!!!

After cooking the chicken I placed the pressure cooker under small stream of running water to help cool it faster. My pressure cooker has a lock, so you cannot open it until the pressure has released.

Here is the cooked chicken and broth!

I poured the chicken juice (broth) into jars.

And then had to work on de-boning/shredding the chicken.

Ta da!!! Altogether I was able to get 6 cups of good chicken meat from the chicken!

I will be making chicken and dumplins tomorrow from the broth and cooked chicken!

Easter 2011

2011-04-25T21:03:00.007-05:00

We spent Easter weekend with Barrett's family! It was pretty low key and very nice to relax!

Rylie came in town from college at Alabama! I love this picture of the brothers!

And our Easter family picture! I had to get Bindi in the picture! :)

I hope everyone had a blessed Easter with family and friends!

He is Risen!

Turning 26

2011-04-24T18:46:00.008-05:00

On Friday, April 15, I turned 26! You know you are an adult when you get excited that your birthday is not only a Friday but also falls on pay day! I really can't believe I am 26...it seems like just yesterday I was 18 and getting ready to head off to college.

My husband bought me these beautiful flowers!

My mother-in-law bought me my first pressure cooker! I can't wait to cook with it!

My sister-in-law bought me this cute 31 purse! It is perfect for shopping!

A sweet friend at work bought me this coffee mug! She knows me all too well!

One of our family friends makes these beautiful window paintings and she gave me one for my birthday! I can't wait to find the perfect spot for it!

Another sweet family friend gave me this decorative piece with our last name initial!

I also got a really cute brown watch from Lisa and the movie Eclipse from the Twilight series from my BF, Raven! My parents and brother also sent me sweet cards!

I am truly blessed with wonderful family and friends who make me feel so special on my birthday!

Caribbean Cruise March 2011

2011-04-03T17:08:00.005-05:00

We were so fortunate to be able to go on a Caribbean Cruise March 19 - 26, 2011.

To see our daily adventures on the cruise click the links below:

Cruise Day of Embarkment

Cruise Day 1 - Day at Sea

Cruise Day 2 - Day at Sea

Cruise Day 3 - St. Thomas, USVI

Cruise Day 4 - San Juan, Puerto Rico

Cruise Day 5 - Grand Turk

Cruise Day 6 - Day at Sea

Day After Cruise - Miami

ENJOY!!!

Cruise Day of Embarkment

2011-04-02T22:05:00.006-05:00

Our cruise day vacation started out with a pretty long travel day. We had to be at the airport by 4:30 am for our 6:00am flight. We weren't able to get a direct flight to Miami, so we had a layover in Charlotte, NC. We didn't land in Miami until 1:50 and actually didn't make it to our ship until 3:15! To say the least, we were so happy we made it!

After getting to our room, we had to participate in the safety drill. The safety drill only lasted about 20 minutes and then it was time to explore the ship! We quickly found the 24 hour pizza bar and helped ourselves to our first of many slices of pizza!

I wish I would've taken pictures of us leaving Miami, because it was beautiful! I quickly learned to carry my camera everywhere! We left Miami around 5:00pm.

After we pulled out of port we headed to our rooms to unpack. For our trip we had the late dinner seating at 8:15

Here's a picture of B and me at our first dinner.

Dad, Mom & Reid After dinner we headed to the "Welcome Show" on the ship. Before the show started we were surprised by an unexpected announcement by the Captain. He had to let everyone know that due to a serious health issue of another passenger, the ship was having to turn around and head back to Miami to let the sick person off the ship. Due to us having to turn around, we were not going to be able to stop the next day in Half Moon Cay, Bahamas and would instead have two days at sea before our stop in St. Thomas. Everyone was very shocked by this announcement. Even though we were disappointed about not stopping in the Bahamas, we weren't going to let this unexpected event ruin our trip! We were ready for a couple fun days at sea! After the show everyone was pretty tired from the day of travel, so we headed to our rooms for bed!

Cruise Day 1 - Day at Sea

2011-04-02T21:13:00.009-05:00

Day 1 of our original cruise schedule was suppose to be spent in Half Moon Cay, Bahamas. However, due to the health emergency of another passenger, we weren't able to make our stop in Bahamas. We unexpectedly added another day at sea.

I started the day with room service and breakfast in bed! I had been talking about room service breakfast in bed long before our cruise!

After breakfast, we headed to find a spot to soak up the sun. It was actually pretty chilly on the boat that day, so we didn't spend much time laying out.

One of the scheduled activities for the day was "the hairy chest contest". It was hilarious to watch grown men dance and try to win the contest!

Here is a picture of everyone gathering for the contest.

Our ship had a "jumbo-tron" that they showed movies, NCAA basketball games, and other ship events on. They were broadcasting live the hairy chest contest!

Quick picture with dad!

And Mom!

And here we have the winner of the contest!

Haha and ewwww!!!

The contestants...

Our ship also had a water slide! We finally found a spot on the very top deck where the wind was blocked. Here's a picture of Dad and Reid enjoying cruisin'!

Mom and me!

B found a perfect spot where he could watch the basketball game and he had a great view of the ocean! He was in heaven!

After hanging out on the deck, we headed to get a snack since we had the late dinner seating. After eating a snack, we decided to take naps (you will see a theme of this throughout the trip).

Here's a picture of Dad and Mom before dinner...

B and me at dinner...

The fam...

And our towel animal that was left in our room! Not really sure what it is...

We headed to the disco after dinner (you will see this is a recurring theme of the trip).

Dad and B enjoying the disco!

Reid and Dad being cool in the disco!

My beautiful mom and best friend!

After hanging out in the disco we headed to our rooms to rest up for another fun day at sea!

Cruise Day 2 - Day at Sea

2011-04-02T16:36:00.007-05:00

Day 2 was a scheduled day at sea!

I didn't take a lot of pictures during the day of our second day at Sea. We spent the day laying out on the deck and soaking up the sun.

We had our first formal dinner night, so we had to get fancy for dinner!

We had a couple professional pictures taken before dinner that turned out great!

The group picture:

Barrett wasn't thrilled about this one, but I really liked it!

We had a little time to kill before we could be seated for dinner, so we headed to the lounge to listen to music and watch people dancing :)

We also took more pictures!

Little brother!

The men...(B was really tired of pictures by this point).

My <3

My best friend!

At dinner!

Other side of the table!

This was the towel waiting in our room after dinner!

After dinner we headed to the disco for dancing! You can barely see in the picture but it's Reid, B and me doing the "wobble". :) SO FUN!

Mom and Dad dancing the night away!

And other people dancing! It was almost more fun to watch other people dance! haha!

Chillin' in the disco...

Mom & Dad

After hanging in the disco for awhile, we headed to bed. We needed our rest before exploring St. Thomas the next day!

Cruise Day 3 - St. Thomas, USVI

2011-04-01T15:55:00.013-05:00

Day 3 was our first day off the ship! After two days at sea we were ready to be off the boat and explore St. Thomas!

Here is a picture right after we got off the ship!

At St. Thomas we had pre-purchased an excursion that did several different things. The excursion took us on a quick bus tour, stopped at a beach, and also took us to Blackbeards castle.

The excursion began with a bus ride. Here's a picture of the fam on the bus!

Me and B!

I'm not going to lie, the bus ride was a little bit scary. The roads in St. Thomas are very narrow and we were going up hills. However, the crazy ride was well worth what was waiting us at the top! Here is a view of the first over-look we stopped at. Our ship is the one in the front!

Amazing, gorgeous, blue water! Notice all the little sailboats in the bay! Let the picture taking begin! Those views were just too beautiful to pass up!

Beware blog readers - this may be the Barker Christmas card for 2011! :)

Dad, Mom and Reid

Love this picture! Probably my favorite of the trip!

Loving St. Thomas!

Dad and brother!

Little brother!

While we were taking the views in we noticed this beautiful beach area! Little did we know that would be where we were going for our time on the beach!!!!

I thought this little guy was cute!

After stopping at two different over-looks we headed to the beach area called Magen's Bay.

It was the exact beach we had been looking at from the over-look.

Reid was creeping in our picture!

Close up!

After spending a couple hours on the beach, we headed to Blackbeard's Castle. Blackbeard's castle actually ended up being an entire property with lots of different things to see. Here is the view from the courtyard on the property. Notice our ship!

This tower is actually the castle, so we were a little diappointed it wasn't an actual castle, but the property was really cool!

Mom and I taking advantage of the photo opportunity! haha!

The view from Blackbeard's tower...

Me and B in the tower!

This wall was made of amber and is valued at 2.5 million dollars!

After leaving the Blackbeard Castle property, we took a ship back to our boat to eat lunch. After lunch we headed back off the boat to some of the shops around the port.

We also took the "classic cruise picture" in front of our Ship!

Dad, Mom & Reid

We found this picture board area and had to be silly...

Reid didn't get the memo for silly face!

The fam (if you can't tell, B doesn't like pictures!!!)

We had a great time in St. Thomas.

After our day at St. Thomas we headed to the ship to take a quick nap before dinner. When we got up and dressed for dinner, we were leaving the port in St. Thomas.

Here are the St. Thomas lights as we were pulling away...

The wind was a little bit crazy!

Mom and I on the deck!

Dinner pictures for Night #3

Me and B

Reid, Mom & Dad

And our towel animal was waiting in our room after dinner!

After dinner Mom and I headed to the show on the Ship honoring Frank Sanatra while the guys headed to the casino. The Frank Sanatra show was great, but the guys' luck in the casino wasn't! ;)

We headed to bed a little early to get ready for the next day! We needed to rest up to be ready to PARTY for Dad's birthday!

Cruise Day 4 - San Juan, Puerto Rico

2011-03-30T18:34:00.020-05:00

Day 4 of our vacation was Dad's birthday and also a day in San Juan. I have to be honest, our entire family was thinking this would be our least favorite stop of the cruise, but it ended up being our favorite!

Our original plan was to get off the ship and find a beach to relax for the day since we hadn't pre-purchased an excursion. Dad went to talk to one of the guest services representatives to find out where a good beach was close to where the ship was in port. Dad learned that San Juan didn't really have great beaches and she recommended us take a bus tour of the island. We were so happy we took her advice!

After getting off the ship we hopped on a chartered bus. We were taken around "Old San Juan" and "New San Juan". This picture was taken from the bus.

After a short drive the tour stopped at the Castillo San Cristobal. This castle was amazing!

B was in heaven with all the history and the beautiful views of San Juan from the castle!

Inside one of the dungeons of the castle there were drawings of ships. It is believed that a Spanish captain drew these ships on the wall of the dungeon while waiting to be executed.

This was the second level of the castle, or the "defense level". The openings toward the bottom of the wall are where the canons were!

The views from the castle were amazing!

This picture was taken from the second level of the castle. You can see our ship in port below!

This picture was taken from one of the view towers in the castle. This was what the watch man would see looking to the left...

And the view to the right....

The building with the dome shape is the capital building.

After checking everything out on the second level we headed to the third level of the castle for even more beautiful views!

Here is a picture of Mom and Dad!

And Reid...

And Me with B!

After visiting the castle, our tour guide took us to a little shopping area. We didn't go shopping we looked for more history. Barrett really loves visiting old churches, so we found this one that was build in 1756.

Beautiful!

I loved these old doors...

Dad and Reid outside the church...

Me and Mom outside the church...

Underneath the church was a small mausoleum.

After the bus tour ended, we decided we wanted to see more of San Juan, so we ventured out on foot! Here is a picture of their new post office. I just loved this building...

Barrett found another church on the historical map and we had to go check it out. This church was build in 1511 and has been revamped over the years.

Outside the church...

Inside was so beautiful and peaceful!

Ponce de Leon was actually buried in this church! Barrett really loved the history here!

After seeing the church, we wanted to eat at an authentic Puerto Rican restaurant. Our tour guide had recommended Restaurante Raices. Although we wanted authentic food, we all chose chicken items on the menu! The food was good, but the atmosphere was better!

After eating, we continued our walk back to the port. This is a view down one of the San Juan streets, so neat!

This gate at one time was the only way people could enter the island of San Juan. The island also was surrounded by a large concrete wall. Pieces of that wall can be seen all along the island.

After walking around San Juan we were pretty tired! We headed back to the ship. Barrett headed to the gym on the ship while Reid, Dad, Mom and I headed to find a spot on the ship's deck to watch us leave San Juan. This was a view from our spot on the ship's deck.

Dad was being goofy and put a napkin on his head...

Relaxing yet again!

As we left the port and the island of San Juan, I was blown away at the breathtaking views! I was so thankful to be outside on the deck as we pulled away, because I was able to get some awesome pictures! This isn't the castle we visited, but another castle on the island!

Stunning to see the castle and the white caps of the waves...

On of my favorites...

And another great view of the coastline of San Juan.

After laying out on the deck for awhile, everyone headed back to their rooms for a quick nap before getting ready for dinner and the night's activities!

We took group pictures....

Me and B took pictures...

He thinks this one is so cheesy, but I love it!

Then we headed to dinner.

Mom had ordered Dad a special birthday cake since it was his 50th birthday!

Dad with his cake! The cake was delicious!!!

Here is the only picture I took of everyone at our table. The group of 5 girls were nicknamed "The Liberty Girls" since our ship was the Carnival Liberty. They bought my dad a post card and a chocolate bar for his birthday! They were lots of fun to sit with!

After dinner we had this "creature" on our bed. I'm still not really sure what it is!

After dinner we spent the night in the disco celebrating Dad's birthday and dancing the night away!

Happy 50th Birthday Dad!

Cruise Day 5 - Grand Turk

2011-03-27T21:07:00.012-05:00

Thursday, was our day at Grand Turk! The picture above was our view to the right while getting off the boat. The picture below was our view to the left. Let me tell you, nothing excited me more than beach chairs to relax in! I was so excited to head to the beach with the fam and stake our claim to "our spot".

This particular port in Grand Turk was overtaken by our cruise line! We had another Carnival ship who docked at the same time we did. Here's a picture of both ships at port.

We made it to our beach chairs! Here is a picture of Reid enjoying the sand and sun with Dad's hat on!

My little brother!

Reid, Mom and me

Reid, me and Dad

My legs, the sand, the water, and our ship...

Ahhh relaxation at its finest!

With my honey on the beach at Grand Turk!

After spending a little over an hour on the beach, we headed to find our excursion group. We had decided to try power snorkeling! This is a picture of the view of the beach from the hut where we go our snorkel gear and snorkeled.

Another view! So peaceful!

Power snorkeling was SO MUCH FUN! You basically hold on to a 35 pound motor that is weightless in the water. The best part is, it does all the work for you! We only snorkeled for about an hour, but we were still pretty exhausted!

After our power snorkel excursion, we headed back to the main area around the port to shop. Grand Turk is also home to one of the locations of the infamous Margaritaville. I wish I would have taken more pictures, but Margaritaville actually had two pools and two bar areas that were really neat! While Reid, Mom and I shopped, Dad and Barrett went to check out Margaritaville!

After our day at Grand Turk we headed back to the ship. We hadn't really had anything to eat for lunch, so we hit up the pizza bar and the burger/hot dog buffet. After eating Mom and I went and spent some time looking at pictures and also shopped in the gift shops on the ship.

Before we headed to our room to get ready for dinner we were able to catch the beautiful sunset!

Dinner was our second formal night. Barrett and I had this picture made by one of the photographers on the ship. Doesn't my husband look so handsome?!?

Here are the picture of us at the dinner table:

Mom, Reid and Dad

B and Me

When we went back to our room after dinner we had this towel animal on our bed. I am guessing it is a rabbit?

After changing into a more comfortable pair of shoes, we headed to the Disco for dancing! Here's a picture of me, Mom, and Reid enjoying the music at the disco!

I LOVE this picture of my parents!!

We didn't close the disco down, but we came pretty close!

What a fun day in Grand Turk!

Cruise Day 6 - Day at Sea

2011-03-27T20:41:00.010-05:00

Friday, Day 6, was our last day on the ship :( We were all so sad that the vacation was almost over. Our day was spent "at sea". Everyone wanted to spend the majority of the day outside enjoying the beautiful weather and working on our tans. We got up, had breakfast, and then searched the ship for 5 empty chairs together. We finally found 5 chairs near the sports courts.

Here's a picture of Dad and me!

Had to get a picture with my mom!

We noticed that the Carnival Destiny, the ship that was in port with us at Grand Turk, followed us most of the day back to Miami. Here is a picture of The Destiny. This ship was made very similar to ours, The Carnival Liberty. Here's a view of the slide. Dad and I decided to wait to go down the ship's slide until the last day. Mom took pictures of everyone going down the slide, but I don't have a copy of her pictures yet. Here's a look at the fun slide! The guys decided to shoot some hoops while we spent the day at sea. The ship held a basketball knock out tournament at 4pm, that they participated in. Reid and B weren't able to place in the competition, but Dad finished second!

Still shooting hoops...

I love relaxing on the ship!

After we spent the day outside, mom and I shopped for a few souvenirs in the ship's gift shop, stopped to get a slice a pizza and then headed to our room to finish packing. The guys had actually headed to the room to take a nap.

After taking naps and getting packed up, we headed for our last dinner together. Here is a picture of me and B at the table.

Dad, Mom, and Reid

Our waiters were singing "Leaving Our Fun Ship" for us, since it was our last dinner. We really enjoyed our wait staff!

The penguin towel animal that was in our room after dinner.

After dinner we headed to the show. We had been so excited about this particular show all week, because one of the girls who sat at our table actually played the part of Madonna during the show! During the week everyone on the ship could compete in the karaoke bar to be in the show, and Amber won the part of Madonna! She did a great job and it was neat seeing someone we knew on the cruise on the big stage!

I'm not sure what happened to my camera, but the picture is blurry :(

After the show Dad and Mom went to the coffee shop on the ship. We sat in one of the lobby areas and tried to savor every last minute we could before going to bed. We were so depressed our fun cruise vacation was ending, because we had such a wonderful time!

Day After Cruise - Miami

2011-03-27T20:23:00.006-05:00

Saturday after getting off the ship, Barrett and I didn't catch a flight home. The cruise line actually couldn't find us a flight home on Saturday, so they put us in the Hilton Miami hotel for Saturday night. This picture above was the view from our room!

I really wasn't sure we would like staying another night and figured we would be ready to get home. We actually had a great time spending the day in Miami.

We arrived at the hotel a little after 10am and couldn't check into our room until 3pm. We decided to take the airport shuttle to the Dolphin Mall in Miami. The first stop we made at the mall was P F Chang's for lunch.

I thought it was funny that Barrett's fortune cookie word was "ship"! We shopped around the mall for awhile after lunch then found a nice patio to sit and get a drink. After our adventure at the mall, we caught the shuttle back to the hotel just in time to check in our room. We settled in our room, took a nap, and then ordered pizza for supper. We watched a little March Madness and then turned in for the night. Our check out time was 4:30am (3:30 our time at home) in order to catch our early flight home Sunday morning. We had a great day in Miami, but were both pretty sad our vacation was coming to an end!

Healthy Low Calorie Staples in Our Home

2011-02-17T20:12:00.004-06:00

Like I mentioned in the last post, Barrett and I are trying to get healthy before the cruise! Our weight update this week is Barrett is down 15 pounds, while I am down 6.

The hardest part of this whole process for me is not the lifting weights and running. I actually really enjoy being active and love how it allows me stress relief after a long day at work. The hardest part is eating right! I have such a sweet tooth and I crave things that are not good for me. Barrett and I have been so excited about finding "different" healthy foods that we really enjoy. I wanted to share some of what we found through our journey.

Item #1 - Sensible Portions Veggie Chips

I found these little treasures on the same aisle as the rice cakes. They are not as expensive and they have less calories than baked lays potato chips. The best part....one serving = 38 chips = 130 calories!!! This is what the veggie chips look like out of the bag. They don't even taste like veggies, they taste just like potato chips (maybe even better)! Delicious!

The next two items I found to "silence" my sweet tooth.

#2 - Atkins Day Break Peanut Butter Fudge Crisp Bar

These are excellent! If you like peanut butter you will love these bars. They are a little pricey to me, but worth it to be able to satisfy my sweet cravings. One bar = 150 calories with 10 grams of protein and only 1 gram of sugar. We are able to get 5 of these bars at our local WalMart for just under $6.

#3 - Atkins Endulge Caramel Nut Chew Bar

We are able to get 5 bars in a box for under $5. Each bar has just 130 calories and they really are delicious! They actually taste just like a Snickers bar!

#4 - Hungry Jack Complete Wheat Blends Pancake Mix

Barrett and I love breakfast food, especially pancakes. We found these pancakes and LOVE them. You simply mix with water, and we usually add cinnamon to batter. We can split a one cup serving and each have 4 pancakes for a total of 225 calories. Pair the pancakes with sugar free syrup and it's a great low calorie breakfast (or in our case usually supper)!

#5 - Great Value Egg Whites

Again, I do most of my shopping at WalMart and the Great Value brand is a lot cheaper than the other name brands. If I find the generic brand is comparable in price I always buy it. I had tried liquid egg whites before and really couldn't remember how I felt about them. I bought these as an experiment for us to try, and we LOVED them. We like to scramble them with a little bit of cheese. The best part about these? The entire carton is only 500 calories. One carton usually lasts us 3-4 meals.

#6 - Diet Lipton White Tea with Raspberry

When I first bought this drink I was skeptical, but they have really grown on me. I prefer these over the diet green teas, and really enjoy them slushy. Each tea is 0 calories. You can buy a 12 pack for under $6. I love drinking these with my afternoon snack.

#7 - Great Value Decaffeinated Iced Tea with Peach

These are great to add to a bottle of water for only 5 calories. I believe you can get a box of 10 packets for $2-3. They usually will also satisfy any sweet craving I have!

Hopefully someone reading the blog may see one of these snacks they want to try. If you try one and like it, please leave me a comment!

Getting Healthy

2011-02-13T19:03:00.003-06:00

I really haven't had much to blog about lately. We have had a few snows here in the past several weeks, but I didn't do a great job of taking pictures. Barrett and I have mostly been working and also working on our fitness! We were needing some motivation to get started eating healthy and running again. Our motivation came when mom and dad planned a cruise vacation for our family to go on in the spring! You talk about motivation!!! We cannot wait to go on the cruise and we want to be looking good in our swim suits! ;)

You may remember me talking about the Couch to 5K program back at this blog post. While I really loved this training program, I really wanted to do more cardio than 30 minutes three times a week. Since I enjoyed the 5K program I started researching the Couch to 10K program. Then I found the app on my iPhone! I LOVE IT!!!

This app tracks your workout, you can listen to your music and it tells you when to jog/walk during your workouts. You can even post to facebook when you finish a workout!

Here is what the display looks like on your phone!

Barrett and I just started the week 4 workout today. It is definitely more cardio, and we can feel our endurance improving. Today we did jogging/walking intervals for 62 minutes and covered over 4 miles. Whew, it was quite the work out!

Another thing we have been doing is watching our calories. While I don't have a lot of weight to lose, I want to eat healthier. Another app I came across on my phone has definitely made calorie counting easy! The app is called "Lose It" and it is a free app on the iPhone.

Not only does it have a database of restaurant and supermarket foods for calories, it will also determine how many calories you burn during exercise. It is such a great app!

Finally, we have been getting in the weight room at least twice a week. I am mainly sticking with one workout focusing on legs and the other on arms. I have been proud of us for sticking with our program for 4 weeks! We have already seen changes. Barrett has lost 11 pounds and I lost 5. I'll try to update the blog as we continue to see progress!

5th Quarter

2011-02-04T18:06:00.002-06:00

One of the local churches in our area sponsored a 5th quarter last Saturday after one of the basketball games. Barrett and I stopped by to spend some time with the students. The students ate, played games, and just had a good time of fellowship. I thought it was such a great idea since there really isn't anywhere for them to "hang out" in town after the games.

The picture above shows me and B with our "king and queen of 5th quarter" gear. The students voted by round of applause who should win, and we did! Ha! The glasses and hat were hilarious!

The group played several games. One of the games I had never played before and it was quite interesting! There was a line of boys and a line of girls. Everyone had a toothpick that they had to keep in their mouth. The first person in line was given a life saver and had to transport the life saver from their toothpick to the person in line behind them. It was a really funny game. Check out the pictures below...

Barrett and I had a great time stopping by the 5th quarter. I hope they continue to offer things like this for the students in the community!

Date Night with 3 Guys

2011-01-30T09:15:00.005-06:00

For Christmas I bought Barrett tickets to see "3 Guys", the comedy show with Larry the Cable Guy, Jeff Foxworthy, and Bill Engvall. Barrett always laughs at their jokes when he has watched them on tv, so I thought it would be a definite surprise to get him tickets. Friday night we went to the show.

Before the show we stopped and ate at Cracker Barrel and looked around the store inside. I thought this little decorative box was too cute and so true!

Here we are before the show!

We were only 14 rows from the stage, which was great! Sorry for the picture quality, I took this one with my iPhone!

We had a great night of laughs and it was wonderful having a night out with my best friend!

Build-A-Bear

2011-01-18T17:30:00.001-06:00

For Christmas Barrett and I purchased a gift card to Build-A-Bear for our niece Aubrey. I couldn't wait for her to be able to make and dress a new teddy bear. Here are pictures I took while she made her bear "Princess".

Here she is ready to get the stuffing!

Stuffing time!

Princess all stuffed!

Giving the bear's heart a hug!

And leaving the store! Aubrey wanted to hold her bear's house. I thought this was too cute because you can't even see her over the box!

I think her smile says it all!

Aubrey loving on Princess!

Being an aunt is honestly one of the best blessings in my life!

Thanks Aubrey for such a fun day!

Christmas Eve

2010-12-29T22:40:00.004-06:00

Christmas Eve this year was spent in Texas with my mom's side of the family at Nana's house! It was so great to catch up with almost all of my cousins. The picture above is Nana with all her grandkids and great grandkids. Check out the post below this one to see the homemade gifts Barrett and I took to Nana's house for our gift exchange! Before we headed to Nana's house we made sure to take a few pictures!

Mom and Dad looking good on Christmas Eve!

Reid, Mom and Dad!

The four of us! One of the best pictures we have taken!

My not-so-little anymore brother!

My hubby!

Me and hubs at Nana's!

Check out the goofs creeping in our picture! haha!

Sorry this isn't turned the right way, but my cousin Corrie gave this to my Nana and I LOVE it!

LOVE her! Rhonda!

And the night would not be complete without the "silly face" picture. All I have to say about this picture is....wow! :)

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas Eve! We sure did!

Homemade Christmas Presents

2010-12-27T23:39:00.002-06:00

This year for Christmas gifts at Nana's house everyone had to make their Christmas gifts. I have to admit I was pretty stressed about making a gift to give, but I think Barrett and I ended up doing a pretty good job.

Below is a picture of the frame I painted. The picture was actually taken before the ceramic was "fired", so the end result looked a lot better. Unfortunately, I forgot to get a picture of the frame finished. My cousin Cristan ended up with the frame and I think she really liked it!

The next picture is what Barrett ended up making. I was so impressed with his work. I really figured I would end up making his gift, but he did all the work himself! My brother ended up taking Barrett's handy-work home and he seemed to really like it!

It was really neat seeing what everyone made, and it made all the gifts really personal.

Who knows, we may have created a new tradition!

1st of Many Christmas Posts

2010-12-27T23:24:00.002-06:00

This year we are spending Christmas in Texas! Before we headed to Texas for the holidays we spent the weekend with Barrett's family. We were able to finish up our Christmas shopping and eat the Christmas dinner at Barrett's parent's church. These are a couple of pictures we took with our niece, Aubrey Grace.

Stay tuned for more Christmas posts!

Emily Got Married!!!

2010-12-08T18:30:00.000-06:00

One of my wonderful friends, Emily, got married on December 4! It was a small family wedding that was just perfect! Emily's aunt, Carol, and mom did all the decorating and setting up for the ceremony! It was fabulous!!

Here are the flower girls!

Josh and Jo have the sweetest and cutest kids ever!

Todd seeing his bride!

Walking down the stairs

So sweet...

Love her face!

Beautiful table and cake!

Cutting the cake!

Mom with her BF, Connie

Aydia & Rylie! So cute

Lisa & Reid

Lisa & I

Dad & Mom

Reid & I

Congratulations Emily & Todd!

A day with Aubrey Grace

2010-11-28T14:20:00.004-06:00

On Friday my mother-in-law and sister-in-law went to the Alabama vs Auburn game. I volunteered to babysit Aubrey, so we could spend the day together. I didn't want to miss a chance to spend some quality time with my precious little niece!

We took pictures....

Made silly faces....(or Katie did anyway)

I may or may not have taught her a bad habit...

We made a "Dora Castle"...

And sang songs in our "Dora Castle"....

We even drew pictures and played with Bindi...

Aubrey is quite the talker now. One of my favorite things to do is just talk to her. Here is a little video I took of us talking about Alabama.

Isn't she just the cutest?!?

Happy Thanksgiving

2010-11-27T21:50:00.002-06:00

We spent Thanksgiving this year in Tennessee with Barrett's family.

We had a great meal and great family time. I had an overwhelming feeling of thankfulness for all the wonderful people in my life. God has been so incredible good to me.

What are you thankful for?

Alabama Game

2010-11-22T17:30:00.000-06:00

I was beyond excited that Barrett and I were finally able to go to an Alabama football game! Barrett gets tickets to all the home games, because he is in the A Club, but due to his own football coaching schedule it is hard for us to attend the games.

Thursday night The Tide played Georgia State and we had such a great time.

Here is a picture of Alabama's Million Dollar Band!

Go defense!

Here is Erin Andrews with ESPN on the sideline.

And here we are enjoying the game!

Alabama beat Georgia State 63-7. It was quite a beating for Georgia State, but this is the first year they have had a football program.

Yea for fun night of Crimson Tide football and Yea Alabama!

Matt & Jesseca's Reception

2010-11-15T17:30:00.001-06:00

Saturday we were able to spend time with our friends celebrating Matt & Jesseca's marriage! The reception was at Matt's parent's house. The food was good, the decorations were really cute, but the best part was catching up with old friends (and for me, meeting new friends!).

Below is a picture of the "water bottles" on the table. I thought this was the cutest idea!

The bottle is a recycled wine bottle.

Kristen & Luke!

Hubby and I!

We had a great time!

Congratulations Matt & Jesseca!!!

Bear Fruit

2010-11-10T17:30:00.002-06:00

My brother has started a blog! Check it out here, it's pretty awesome stuff!

Playoff Game Against Milan

2010-11-10T17:30:00.001-06:00

Friday night was the Panther's playoff game against Milan. The sign for the game says, "Lucky to be a Panther". The game was quite a struggle for us, and we ended up losing 40-7.

It is so hard to believe the football season has ended, it seems like it just started. I have to admit, I will be happy to have my husband home more.

Now I have to figure out something else to blog about.... :)

Halloween Present

2010-11-01T18:00:00.000-05:00

I have to admit, Halloween this year was pretty uneventful for the Earnest household.

This was not the case for my parents, who went to a Halloween party as Chris Daughtry and a rocker chick (pictured above). How cool are my parents?!?

I did dress Bindi up for Halloween.

Isn't she just the cutest little pumpkin?

Barrett worked all day on Saturday, so Bindi and I handed out candy to the Trick or Treaters. (Our town decided to have everyone Trick or Treat on Saturday instead of Sunday.)

Here I am in my Halloween t-shirt, after passing out candy!

I hope everyone had a safe and happy Halloween!!!

Halloweens Past

2010-11-01T17:45:00.000-05:00

I had Mom send me a few pictures of Halloween costumes I wore when I was little.

It was fun to see what I dressed up as.

Here is my first Halloween picture with my mom.

I'm an apple!

I was either 2 or 3 in this picture, dressed as a clown!

This year absolutely cracked me up. I was a California Raisin and Reid is dressed as Maverick from the movie Top Gun!

This is from the same year, but with my cousin Rhonda as a cat! Isn't she cute!
Again, what was I thinking?!?

I LOVE Reid's costume in this one!
He is a cowboy and I am an Indian!

Here is another one of my Indian costume.

Check out the Papoose with a baby on my back!

And this was a picture taken of one of my Halloween dance costumes.

Happy Halloween!

Game #10 Against East Hickman SENIOR NIGHT

2010-11-01T17:30:00.002-05:00

The last game of the season was against East Hickman. It was also Senior Night. Lewis County honors the seniors in band, cheerleaders, football managers and football players. There was no way I could get everyone in the picture, so here are two. This group is mainly the band members.

Here are some of the senior football players...

The cheerleaders are getting ready to put up the sign...

Ta Da...it says, "Senior Night".

Busting through the sign...

My honey in action...

It was such a great game for the Panthers. We were actually able to relax during the game, because in the first half we were up 21-0. The Panthers ended the game and regular season with a 47-8 victory! The guys really played great!

With the last regular season game ending in victory, the Panthers will be able to go to the playoffs. We will play on Friday night at Milan.

Here is a picture with Sue!

She is the head coach's wife and I ride with her to all the games!

We have cheered for the Panthers all season long!

So happy to get a picture of my hubby after the game! Isn't he just precious?!?

Way to go Panthers! Beat Milan!

Scavenger Hunts

2010-10-29T16:30:00.001-05:00

Some of the kids at the high school have been doing scavenger hunts on Saturday nights. I think it is a great idea, since there really isn't a whole lot for them to do in our town. We were involved in two of the scavenger hunts. The picture above is fulfilling one of the requirements to take a picture of us in sport's team hats. These were the only hats we had (plus Barrett was trying to be funny and take a picture in his helmet from his "glory days").

For another scavenger hunt every member on the team had to get in our bathtub and take a picture! Good thing I had just cleaned the bathroom!

Oh the things we have done for these scavenger hunts....

Who knows what will be next!!!

Game #9 against Fairview HOMECOMING

2010-10-26T17:30:00.000-05:00

Friday was Homecoming for the Lewis County Panthers. Above is a picture of the Homecoming Court. The court is made up of an attendant from each class (including a senior attendant) and the senior Homecoming Queen. They even have a flower girl and crown bearer!

Above is a picture of the court with the Lewis County Cheerleaders.

Below is the picture of the sign for the game. Fairview's mascot is a Yellow jacket. The sign says, "Swat 'em 2010 Homecoming"

And busting through the sign...

I wish I had better news about the outcome of the football game, but the Panthers lost 12-21.

Next game is Senior Night and the last game of the regular season. We are all praying for a Panther win!

Let's go Panthers!

Nature Trail

2010-10-18T17:59:00.000-05:00

On Sunday, Barrett and I did something we had never done before, we went on the Nature Trail walk right off The Natchez Trace. We live only a few miles from The Trace, and it is really beautiful in the fall. The best part was getting to take Bindi! She loved it!

Sorry the picture is turned, I couldn't get it straight!

Here we are in front of one of the waterfalls.

Another waterfall

Under the waterfall!

Barrett really wanted Bindi to swim...she wasn't having it!

These are the picture of the actual 3 mile Nature Walk.

Beautiful!

And my favorite from our day...

We were pretty exhausted from our 3 mile walk, but it was so worth it!

God's creation is just beautiful, especially during the Fall in Tennessee!

Pumpkin Patch Fun

2010-10-18T17:57:00.000-05:00

This past Saturday, we took Aubrey Grace to the Pumpkin Patch! It was such a fun time, and we really enjoyed being outside on a pretty fall day!

Here is a picture of Dacey, Aubrey and Julia!

At another "photo spot"!

Riding on the train! How cute is she?

Notice the cow with the sunglasses on!

Aubrey wanted Nana's sunglasses on and she wore them the rest of the day!

3 generations!

Aubrey exploring the pumpkins!

She wanted to hold the price tags!

So precious!

My favorite!

What a fun day!

Game #8 at Giles County

2010-10-18T17:55:00.000-05:00

On October 15, we played the Giles County Bobcats. I have really been slacking when it comes to taking pictures of the game, but as you can see above, I did get my picture of the sign.

Our boys really played tough and going into the 4th quarter the game was 7-0.

With 5 minutes left in the game, it all fell apart. We ended up losing 21-0.

The next game is Homecoming, and I am really hoping for a Panther victory!

Date Night

2010-10-18T17:53:00.001-05:00

My hubby has been pretty busy with football this season, so I was super excited when he told me we were going on a date! He took me to The Beacon Light Tea Room! I had never heard of this cute little restaurant before, but it was quite a treat! They serve little biscuits and homemade peach and strawberry preserves as an appetizer. The food was great, and it was such a great atmosphere for our date! I am so thankful for my thoughtful husband!

Lady Panther Senior Night

2010-10-18T17:50:00.000-05:00

On September 30, the Lady Panthers had Senior Night for volleyball.

Pictured from left to right in the picture above are: Mary Anna, Kebrina, Marisa, and Tish!

I have had the privilege to help coach these four girls for the last two years!

Here they are pictured with their cake!

And being goofy....

I have really enjoyed getting to coach and know these great girls!
I wish them the best as they finish up their senior year of high school, and
I hope they have a wonderfully bright future!

Game #7 at Marshall County

2010-10-18T17:45:00.000-05:00

On October 1, the Panthers took on Marshall County. I LOVED the sign for this game! The country singer, Kenny Chesney, currently has a song called, "Boys of Fall". The song talks about football teams and towns that love high school football, and that is where this sign gets its inspiration!

I didn't take anymore pictures during this game...I must have been too nervous or too busy cheering.

The Panthers were not able to pull out a victory, and lost 14-25.

Mom & Dad Come to TN

2010-10-18T17:40:00.000-05:00

Here are a few pictures I took with Mom & Dad, before we went to dinner, the Saturday night they were here! I was so happy they were able to come visit us!

Lady Panther Volleyball

2010-10-18T17:35:00.001-05:00

Mom and Dad were able to come to a volleyball game this year! It was so great having them there! They were our "good luck charm", because the girls played AWESOME!!!!

Mom and I before the game!

My Dad!

Talking with Henry, the ref, before the game!

Game plan!

Can you tell who had the camera? Love this picture!

Pre-game warm up!

Let's Go Lady Panthers!

After the awesome game! The girls won in 3 to beat Spring Hill!

Celebrating after the win!

Game #6 Wayne County

2010-10-18T17:30:00.001-05:00

Whew, I am super behind in blogging due to computer issues. :( I am going to try and catch up and have several things to blog about, including 3 football games. Here is the first of many "late" posts!

On September 24 we played Wayne County. I was super excited because Mom and Dad were able to come to this game!

I am sad I didn't take any pictures of us at the game, but here is "the sign".

It says, "Refuse to Lose".

The wind was really blowing, so the sign malfunctioned before the guys could run through it!

Game time! Let's go Panthers!

Haha - this is the typical "frustrated stance". :)

And here is the final score...

Unfortunately, the Panther's were not able to pull it out and lost 21-34. They really played a good game, even though the score doesn't reflect it.

And here's a picture of us after the game. Glad Coach Earnest was smiling even after a loss!
Love him!

Game #5 Against Hickman County

2010-09-18T18:14:00.004-05:00

Game #5 was at home against Hickman County. My picture of the sign was not the greatest...honestly, the sign just did not cooperate!

It said, "This is our house"!

Had to get a quick picture of my favorite coach! :)

This was the first home game since the new score board was put in! Isn't it great?
Here was the score at the end of the 1st quarter...not looking so good for the Panthers!

And after the 2nd quarter! Way to come back, Panthers!

After 3!

And the final score! Whooo hooo!

Keep it up Panthers!

Game #4 at Spring Hill

2010-09-18T17:56:00.003-05:00

Game 4 for the Panthers was at Spring Hill. The game was delayed for about 30 minutes due to lightening and rain. Here's a picture of the sign for the game:

"Victory"

And the guys running through the sign!

The funniest thing that happened during the game was during the 4th quarter. With only about 3 minutes left the sprinklers came on! It was too funny!

The Panther's won the game in an exciting 8-7 victory!

Labor Day in Texas

2010-09-18T15:19:00.009-05:00

I was able to take a long weekend trip to Texas for Labor Day! I couldn't wait to spend some quality time with my family! My flight arrived on Thursday night and Mom and Dad picked me up from the airport. We headed straight to Cafe Brazil for a late meal and to plan my visit!

Friday morning started with shopping!!! We shopped until lunch and took a break from shopping to have lunch at Chipotle. After eating we headed for pedicures. Yes, even my dad got a pedicure!

Here's a picture of my pretty toes! :)

Friday night we went to eat with Cheryl and Lisa at Grimaldi's. It was delicious and we had a great time.

Family picture!

Lisa & Reid

Mom and Elle

The girls waiting to eat!

Dad & Reid

My mom
Love my brother!

Me & Lisa

Saturday the ENTIRE family had to wear Crimson since it was Alabama's first game of the season. We had a pretty lazy morning but headed to Gloria's for lunch and a little more shopping at Firewheel.

Me & Reid in our Alabama gear!

Reid was decked out from head to toe with Alabama gear. Check out the houndstooth glasses and shoes. :) Love it!

Reid & Dad eating on the patio at Gloria's

Lisa & Reid

Me , Lisa & Reid

Sunday morning we headed to Rathbun's Blue Plate Kitchen. Mom's boss had given her a gift card to eat here during my visit. We had never heard of this place but it was so so good.

Here is a group picture our waiter took!

My Daddy! :)

My parents! I <3>

Brother

After brunch we headed to Sherman for a little family gathering at Nana's house. I was so excited to see a few members of my extended family, especially my cousin, Rhonda!

So happy to see my Granny!

And Nana!

Granny and Papa! Love them!

Monday was filled with more shopping, eating, and drinking coffee. Tuesday I headed back to Tennessee bright and early on a 6:30am flight. These are the last pictures I took when I was telling Reid and Lisa "bye".

And the final family picture!

I had a wonderful trip! Hope to see you again soon, Texas!

Game #3 at Page

2010-09-18T15:03:00.002-05:00

I didn't go to our 3rd game of the season. I actually had a great excuse, in that, I went home to Texas and spent the Labor Day holiday with my family! Thankfully I was updated throughout the game on the score! The Panthers beat Page 35-20 for the first win of the season!!! I was so excited!!!

Way to go Panthers!!!

Happy Shopping Face

2010-08-30T19:41:00.002-05:00

Saturday I was able to go shopping with my sister-in-law (Paula) and my niece (Aubrey Grace)! If that isn't the cutest "happy about shopping" face I don't know what is!!!

She'll be a pro-shopper pretty soon!

Game #2 at Collinwood

2010-08-30T16:01:00.004-05:00

Game #2 was against Collinwood.

Above is a picture of the Panther captains before the game started.

I love this picture I took of Barrett watching the captains at mid-field!

And here is "Coach Earnest" with his "Little Buddy" - Coach Sharp! I couldn't stop laughing at how funny they looked standing next to each other.

And here's the sign. I am sorry for the quality of the picture, but my camera is broken and the iPhone had to work. I even tried editing it a little bit, but the quality is too bad.

The sign says, "Got Panthers?"

Unfortunately, the Panthers were not able to pull out a victory against Collinwood.
The final score was 26-8.
Hopefully, the guys will be ready next week for Page!

Come on Panthers!!!

Warning From the Lady Panthers

2010-08-24T17:30:00.001-05:00

I am so excited to be helping with volleyball again this year. This year is definitely different from last year, simply because the girls and I know each other better.

Every year the volleyball team gets to order team shirts. The seniors get to pick out the design of the shirt. I was really impressed with the shirts this year!

Here's what the front looks like...

My favorite part of the shirt is the back. The girls came up with this on their own...

I'd say that's a pretty serious warning!

Watch out for those Lady Panthers!

Game #1 vs. Mt. Pleasant

2010-08-22T18:12:00.003-05:00

I can't believe the 2010 football season is here! You all may remember, but I started the tradition of taking a picture of the cheerleaders sign last year.

So, I had to keep the tradition going.

Here's your sign! :)

It says, "The 'best' things come in black and gold."

I had to get a few picture of B on the field!

Last year he spent the entire year in the coach's box, and now he is back on the field!

Telling the guys what plays to run on defense! :)

And under those Friday night lights!

I wish I could report that we were able to pull out a victory for the season opener, but the Panther's lost 30-20. Let's hope we see that win column next week against Collinwood!

2010 Panther Football Schedule

2010-08-19T17:30:00.000-05:00

I'm excited for the 2010 football season!

Feeling Crafty

2010-08-14T13:24:00.009-05:00

I have been trying to get in the "crafty spirit" lately.

One of my friends from work let me have an old lamp,

and I was so excited to transform it!

I started by spray painting the base of the lamp.

My cousin, Cristan, blogged about this paint here,

and I was excited to try it in my project!

2 coats later!

The next step was to apply the fabric to the old lamp shade.

You simply hot glue the top and the bottom.

The next step was adding a little more detail to the top and bottom of the lamp.
And finally tassels for the bottom. :)

And "ta - da"! I still haven't decided on the perfect spot for the lamp, but I was very pleased with my first attempt at this little project!
I just love transforming things!

Stay tuned for another blog about lamp transformation!
I bought the material to make a houndstooth lamp for our Alabama room!

The Earnests

14 Weeks

Fun Weekend With Family!

13 Weeks

12 weeks

3rd Doctor's Appt - January 23

11 weeks

10 weeks

9 weeks

8 weeks

Second Doctor's Appt. - 12/29/11

7 weeks

6 Weeks

First Doctor's Appt. 12/15/11

Telling Our Families

Finding Out We Were Having a Baby!

Our BIG news!

Christmas 2011

San Antonio

Thanksgiving 2011

Catch Up Session

A Break From Unpacking

*Relocation*

High School Graduation

Nacho Bake

Happy 3rd Birthday

High School Prom

Chocolate Pie

Pressure Cooking

Easter 2011

Turning 26

Caribbean Cruise March 2011

Cruise Day of Embarkment

Cruise Day 1 - Day at Sea

Cruise Day 2 - Day at Sea

Cruise Day 3 - St. Thomas, USVI

Cruise Day 4 - San Juan, Puerto Rico

Cruise Day 5 - Grand Turk

Cruise Day 6 - Day at Sea

Day After Cruise - Miami

Healthy Low Calorie Staples in Our Home

Getting Healthy

5th Quarter

Date Night with 3 Guys

Build-A-Bear

Christmas Eve

Homemade Christmas Presents

1st of Many Christmas Posts

Emily Got Married!!!

A day with Aubrey Grace

Happy Thanksgiving

Alabama Game

Matt & Jesseca's Reception

Bear Fruit

Playoff Game Against Milan

Halloween Present

Halloweens Past

Game #10 Against East Hickman *SENIOR NIGHT*

Scavenger Hunts

Game #9 against Fairview *HOMECOMING*

Nature Trail

Pumpkin Patch Fun

Game #8 at Giles County

Date Night

Lady Panther Senior Night

Game #7 at Marshall County

Mom & Dad Come to TN

Lady Panther Volleyball

Game #6 Wayne County

Game #5 Against Hickman County

Game #4 at Spring Hill

Labor Day in Texas

Game #3 at Page

Happy Shopping Face

Game #2 at Collinwood

Warning From the Lady Panthers

Game #1 vs. Mt. Pleasant

2010 Panther Football Schedule

Feeling Crafty

Relocation

Game #10 Against East Hickman SENIOR NIGHT

Game #9 against Fairview HOMECOMING