troy stephanie eli and allie

Nursery

2011-12-09T14:52:00.001-05:00

Last Sunday Allie went to nursery at church for the first time. She loved it and stayed the whole time! Hopefully that won’t change anytime soon.

Here is a little comparison of Allie and Eli on their 1st days of nursery. Oh when did Eli get so grown up!!

While I was looking for Eli’s nursery picture I found this other comparison. The top is last year at the Ringgold Christmas parade and the bottom is this year. It’s gone by way too fast!!!

Go Dawgs!

2011-11-12T18:57:00.001-05:00

Eli on Georgia Day! Must be good luck once he started wearing his Georgia cape we have beaten Tennessee, Florida, and Auburn that’s a good season in my book!!

Fall Festivities

2011-11-05T17:17:00.001-04:00

I love the fall! I love the traditions that come along with the change of seasons. Before I give my usual picture update a few weeks ago for Family Home Evening we were talking about Nephi building a boat.

Here is our conversation after telling Eli the story:

Me: “Eli who built the boat?”

Eli: “Noah” (We have had that lesson a few times)

Me: “Yes, but Nephi also built a boat.”

Eli: (very excited) “So they could race!”

You can’t help but laugh when you are around Eli. His new favorite thing is putting on costumes. Anything and everything he can find around the house is a costume. He then will stand in front of the mirror and pretend he is a super hero. He is always using his imagination.

Last week we went to a pumpkin patch. It is a tradition I am really wanting to do each year. Eli had a lot of fun trying to find Allie a pumpkin just her size.

Pumpkin Carving. Eli was decked out in his UGA cape.

This year Eli went as Mike Wasowski and Allie was Boo from Monster, Inc. I decided to make their costumes. It was definitely a trial and error process. I have never been much of a sewer but it was a lot of fun and I am still surprised that they didn’t fall apart by the time we were done trick-or-treating!

Annual Kids Costume Picture

Eli loved trick-or-treating!

The cutest little “monster”

Rewind

2011-09-23T23:48:00.001-04:00

Before I let too much time get away from me here is a quick update in pictures. As always hope to be better next time!

June

Allie turned one-June 10th

Some summer fun

Dollywood 2011!

July

Trip to Utah

August

More Utah

Eli turned 3-August 7th

More summer fun

September

and some more

So there you have it a 4 month update. Eli and Allie are getting so grown up. Allie is starting to talk a ton! Life has been fun with these 2 kiddos. Troy is still on the job search… can’t wait till that’s over!!! Anyone know anyone hiring please let us know. I have really been working on finding joy in the everyday little moments of life. Instead of saying, “I will be Happy when…” it is hard to always keep that mind set but when I do things are a lot more enjoyable!!

Too Long…Again!!

2011-06-16T16:30:00.001-04:00

Once again I let too long pass and here is a picture overload of updates (how many posts do I start that way???) Some highlights that I don’t have pictures of….Eli is potty trained!!! Woo-hoo!!! Still working on night but after thinking this will NEVER happen he now can go on his own!!! What an amazing feeling to not have to change his diapers and even better not have to buy two sets of diapers.

Troy and I had our anniversary on the 12th-5 years!! Time really does go by way to fast.

Allie is trying to walk. She can stand up on her own and has taken 10+ steps but every time I try to video tape her she sits down!! I am even trying to be sneaky…what can I say this little girl is smart!!!

April

What an amazing experience it was to be able to attend the Atlanta Temple Open House. Even though Eli was well a 2 year old most of the time I think that he even felt the strong spirit that can only be felt at the temple.

April 27th was a very big day here in the South. But before all the bad weather hit my sister Elizabeth and her husband Chris, welcomed their new little boy, Owen Christian Forscutt….such a cutie!!

It is crazy to think this is where Troy and I used to live less than 2 years ago. Cherokee Valley got hit hard. Ringgold got hit hard. I know everybody has heard stories and seen lots of pictures by now. For me the hardest thing is realizing how long it takes to get things back to “normal".” Where we live now the tornado hit about a quarter of the mile down the road. Everyday as I drive down the street and see the many buildings and houses that are still waiting to be repaired or rebuilt I can not help but feel an overwhelming since of gratitude for my families’ safety.

Yes he is still addicted to anything and everything Buzz Lightyear!!

May

Troy Graduated!!!!

Troy’s parents and brother, Sean, came into town. It was a lot of fun being able to visit with everybody and even more fun being able to watch Troy graduate. He is still looking for a job so if anyone knows someone looking to hire a recent accounting graduate let us know.

Oh funny little story about Eli. He LOVES balloons so we brought Troy some for Eli could give him. The whole ceremony they were fine and then as they were closing some how the weight came off of them and up they went. This is the third time he has witnessed balloons get away and like those times this was no exception….he completely lost it. Finally he recovered and then just yesterday Troy was popping some balloons we had for Allie’s birthday and he acted as if we were killing his best friends. Moral of the story please DO NOT pop or let go of a balloon around Eli!!!

After the tornado many many days and hours were spent helping with clean-up. I was so grateful to be able to go out one day and help clear trees. If you ever need a pick me up go and serve. Actually just go and serve it is amazing the feelings that come from it.

We went to a Lookouts game to watch my sister Shannon sing (well she was supposed to sing…long story) the national anthem (she did run on the field with the rest of the school chorus) It was Allie’s first baseball game. And yes it was a little chilly! Now is is Hot! Hot! Hot!!

Mathew got married!!! My camera died before I could get any pictures of the him and Victoria. I know way poor planning on my part. I know others got some good shots so hopefully I can get some soon. Her dress was beautiful! The whole day was beautiful!! I still can’t believe little Mathew-bud is married!!!

And a lot of playing!!! I am starting to appreciate that Eli and Allie are close in age. Those two are definitely brother and sister as in they love each other but also know how to push each other’s buttons. Right now one of my favorite things in the world is to hear them playing and laughing together in the other room.

I do have more to update…mainly Allie’s birthday. (I can’t believe she is a year old!!!) but wanted to make that its own post, this one is probably too long already…sorry!!

I’ll Help

2011-04-19T11:46:00.001-04:00

Eli loves to help Allie. Well when she ate all her Cheerios he thought he would help get her some more. Such a good big brother.

Ignore Allie’s wonderful bedhead.

Where’s Eli?

2011-04-19T11:31:00.001-04:00

Easter Egg Hunt

2011-04-16T22:11:00.001-04:00

I can not believe it I am actually going to post something that happened this weekend. We had my family’s annual Easter Egg Hunt today. It is fun now Eli is older and understanding more of what’s going on.

We went to my sister Kathryn’s house to dye Easter eggs

Maybe one day I will actually be able to get a picture of both of them smiling and looking in the same direction.

Eli hunting for eggs

Allie enjoying her eggs

Our attempt for a family picture

Check out this giveaway

2011-04-08T07:56:00.002-04:00

If you know me than you know that I am addicted to couponing. My friend hannah has started an amazing blog that lets you know about all the best deals. She is also having an amazing giveaway, check it out.....http://mycouponhabit.blogspot.com/2011/04/baby-products-giveaway.html

Has it really been that long??

2011-04-03T09:58:00.001-04:00

I guess it has…well there goes starting the year off with blogging more. Things around here have been I guess what is our normal…crazy!

Allie - I cannot believe she is almost 10 months old (she will be on April 10th) I think with each child time goes even faster. She started crawling back in January when she was 7 months and is now everywhere and into everything. She will eat anything you give her and is starting to hate being spoon fed. She loves to feed herself and makes a huge mess doing it. Allie still is always all smiles. She has a special way to make you smile too just by looking at her which is exactly what I need on some days. She is starting to really show her personality by letting you know if there is something going on she doesn’t like. But overall she is the most mellow baby I know even when Eli is throwing one of his all too common fits she just sits there like nothing is going on. On a negative note this little girl is a horrible sleeper. Still waking up 1-3 times a night and her naps aren’t that great either. Every now and then we will have a good day but mostly we are still living on very little sleep around here. Some other highlights, she got her first tooth 2 weeks ago and is walking along the furniture, oh she also will drive Eli’s cars and make what sounds like car noises, too cute. She is one happy little girl

9 month stats weight 18.4 height 27 3/4

Eli- where to begin with that boy. He is the sweetest little guy but then can throw your typical 2 year old tantrum like the best of them. He is starting to want to do everything by himself which is good and bad. He still loves everything Toy Story. Even though the other day he told me he wanted to be Megamind for halloween. This week we started the dreaded potty training. It is going ok he still will have accidents but slowly getting the hang of it. (ok it is pretty much horrible but I feel like now that we started we can’t stop) I was just tired of buying and changing 2 sets of diapers. Eli wears me out pretty much everyday but it is all worth it to have him old enough to say “I love you momma”

Troy –still busy busy busy. We can now officially say he graduates next month…yay!! Between work, school, and church he is always on the go. But when he is home he is the best daddy ever. Eli and Allie love wrestling on the floor with him, Yes Allie can already handle her own I guess that is what you get when you have an older brother. Right now we are trying to figure out what we are doing after graduation so if you know anyone that has an entry level accounting position available let us know.

Steph- well pretty much my days roll together taking care of these two munchkins. Crazy. Tiring, But all worth it. At least that is what I keep on reminding myself. I really am trying hard to having a more positive outlook and not taking any moment for granted. It is hard when you are always cleaning up pee or considered the bad guy because you are trying to show some type of discipline.Or when you are always being pulled at or climbed on. Or when you can’t remember the last time you showered. Or it is dinner time and you realized you haven’t even taken time to use the bathroom yet. But then I have those its all worth it moments. Like the other day Eli was “reading” a book to Allie. Or when all four of us where having a pillow fight on the bed. Yes life is hard but isn’t that why it is also so good.

Here are some pictures of the last few months. Sad to say but I feel like I have completely fallen into the category of slacking off with the second child. Compared to all the video we have of Eli we barely have any of Allie. Horrible I know. I do have some of her crawling and her cute little laugh that I will hopefully get up before she turns 1.

Christmas 2010

Snow on Christmas…Eli knocking over the girl snowman…sorry Emily.

New Years, Letting Eli and Allie in on the confetti tradition

What Eli has been up to this last little while…being his crazy self!

Allie has discovered she loves the swings only if her big brother would stay still long enough so she could swing.

Every time you pull out the camera Allie has started scrunching up her nose.

Playing together, seeing this makes it all worth it!!

In March I , (with the help of others of course!) put on a baby shower for my sister Elizabeth it is so much fun and loved how it turned out

Some more...

2010-12-23T12:57:00.003-05:00

Here are a few more pictures of what we have been up to

First taste of a "real" banana
He wishes he could play on the computer all day

Making gingerbread cookies at the discovery museum

Playing at the Discovery Museum

Such a big help...Eli teaching Allie how to use her cup

Allie has started scooting around. She has pretty much mastered the going backwards and going in circles. She will get up on her hands and knees and try to go forward. I am NOT ready for a crawler but it is exciting to see her growing up

Halloween Before Christmas

2010-12-23T11:53:00.009-05:00

Before Christmas gets here, here is a quick update with pictures

(some are out of order)

After a night of trick-or-treating these two were worn out!
First "girl" alien

Of course Eli HAD to be Buzz Lightyear. He loved it!!

Playing at the park

Such a happy baby

This is Eli's idea of Thanksgiving Dinner

Pretty Girl

Playing at the park, again

Trying baby food for the first time was a success

The traditional 6 month cupcake, Allie LOVED it!

Enjoying her cupcake with her cousin Ava who is 2 days younger

Ready to dig in

Having fun

Every now and then Buzz makes an appearance

Chicken Noodle Soup

2010-11-22T12:45:00.004-05:00

This weekend I got the horrible stomach bug that always seems to be going around this time of year. Being sick with two young kids puts a whole new spin on being sick...not being able to lay around until you feel better. But fortunately I have an AMAZING husband who went above and beyond taking care of me! He not only took care of the kids (which right there would of been plenty) and me he cleaned the house went to the grocery store and made me chicken noodle soup from scratch, homemade noodles and all. Yes he is amazing. I love you babe!!!!

Since every post needs a picture here we are at the pumpkin patch about a month ago. I can't believe I still have posted Halloween pics...wait yes I can.

picture update...

2010-10-20T14:02:00.003-04:00

1st UGA game of the season
She is actually wearing Eli's old jersey, we had to make sure she had a big flower in her hair so everyone would know she was a girl

Love it!

Eli when he is the happiest, watching Toy Story

While at my parent's house we found an old Woody costume Eli of course had to borrow it

We decided to get a membership to the Discovery Museum this year We don't have a picture of it but as of now Eli's favorite part is watching all the bees up by the tower

Such a big girl

Wishes he could still play

They already play so well together

Don't you love the drool

pretty girl

It may not show it in the picture but Eli is crazy about his Uncle Jordan. Jordan, or I should say Elder Owens left to on his mission today. We told Eli that he left on a plane but he is too young to understand. We sure are going to miss him but so proud of his decision to serve.

--Allie turned 4 months on the 10th Her stats are:

14 lbs

24.5 inches long

I also forgot to put Eli's 2 year stats they are:
30.4 lbs
34 inches long

Check

2010-10-20T13:40:00.003-04:00

For the last little while I have had the goal to run a half marathon. Last Saturday I was finally able to check it off my list. Was I crazy for running 13.1 miles....yes! Training was rough with Troy's BUSY schedule of work, school, studying and church (he is the YM pres.) and with the days getting shorter and with two little ones at home. But after 2 hours 3 mins and 57 seconds I did it!!! Don't know how exactly.

...

2010-10-07T13:43:00.005-04:00

No this is not the much needed update just a little something that happened that I have to remind myself yes this is all worth it.

So Eli is starting to take fewer and fewer naps. I lay him down the same time everyday with the same routine and sometimes he sleeps sometimes he doesn't. That is a whole separate post on how much I NEED his nap time and am seriously not happy with the fact that they may be coming to an end.

Today was one of those days where he was in his bed but not asleep. While I am feeding Allie I hear, "Momma I poop." yay. Finish feeding Allie and then hear, "Mess!!." Hurry and put Allie in her swing and open Eli's door. You know when the first thing you see is a messy diaper on the floor it is a bad sign. It is EVERYWHERE!!! Including all over him!! Fun. I don't even know where to start because he has thrown it all over his room...Oh and by the way just this morning I put new clean sheets on his beds for the millionth time this week.

Oh the joys of motherhood!

Sorry no pics for this post didn't want to gross you out and plus locating the camera was the last thing on my mind :)

Smiley

2010-10-05T16:51:00.002-04:00

I promise I am going to try and update soon but until then.... how can you not smile too?

Allie Update

2010-08-30T14:37:00.007-04:00

I cannot believe she is already over 11 weeks old! The most exciting news is that she is no longer on her monitor! We were beyond thrilled when we took her to the doctor for her 2 month check-up and they gave us the good news. It is like a whole new world leaving the house without her monitor and the diaper bag and the carrier and trying to hold Eli's hand. I love it!!! She is doing so good. I cannot say enough good things about what a great baby she is. She is so mellow. She sleeps about 7 hours a night only to wake up eat and go right back to sleep. She is starting to smile ALOT and make noises. I have been horrible with trying to get video of it I do have a small clip on my phone not the best quality so hopefully I will have a better one soon. (Sorry I tried to upload the video and for some reason it wouldn't work :( It is VERY cute though)Eli loves "his Allie" and already is really protective of her. When I took her to the doctor he did NOT like it when she was getting examined. Thank goodness for the nice nurses to take him out of the room during her shots. I hope to get some more pictures of her up soon. I don't know about you but I can't get enough of her!!

Her 2 months stats are:

11 lbs. 8 oz

23.5 inches

This has been our making dinner routine. It doesn't last long before Eli starts "playing" with her so I have to cook quick. But it is cute to watch them interact.

Now if you have ever come in contact with Eli you know he is somewhat obsessed with Toy Story especially Buzz. The other day I found him sharing all his Toy Story toys with Allie. If this is not love I don't know what is!!!

Once again

2010-08-30T13:54:00.007-04:00

What a month! Once again I start a post by saying it has been too long and having to play catch up. As always the easiest way to do this is by pictures. Most of these (ok all of these) are from the beginning of the month when Troy's family came into town from Utah. It was so much fun seeing everyone especially watching Eli and Hunter play together. They immediately got along great like they saw each other everyday. We loved the visit and miss ya'll already!!

This picture is out of order but is to prove that Allie was there to take apart of all the festivities too!

On August 7th Eli turned 2!! We started talking about the big day about a month before to try and get him excited. He loved waking up to a room full of balloons. We hid his present in our closet waiting to give it to him that night, however, he seemed like he knew right where to go that morning finding it right away!

One of the few family pictures we have taken since Allie was born.

A little flash back from his birthday last year.

Eli loved his car cake, he still talks about it. When it was time to blow out his candles he decided he much rather take a bite of the kit-kat spoiler instead.

Coolidge Park. Eli and Hunter had a blast in the fountains. Those boys were too much fun to watch.

Discovery Museum. I haven't been there in forever and was so glad we went. There was so much stuff to explore!

Aquarium. As always Eli loves anything that you could see in Finding Nemo. This trip his favorite was the Sting Ray.

We blessed Allie on the 8th. We were so grateful for all the family the were able to attended.

(more pics of her blessing day to come)

Clean Up

2010-07-29T19:56:00.003-04:00

I asked Eli to help clean up his toys and found this:

I then told him that's not where our toys go and found this:

Typical Eli

Update time

2010-07-26T07:48:00.012-04:00

Allie at 1 month and a day

Where to begin? As always I let too much time pass. Allie is now almost 7weeks and is growing too fast. She hasn't had an official "episode" since we've been home from the hospital. (Her alarm did go off twice last weekend but the doctor feels it was a misread due to her moving around a lot more) She now weighs 9.6 lbs and is 22.5 inches long. She has already grown out off all her newborn clothes and we have already had to adjust her car seat straps! Allie is overall a really good baby. She will sleep for about 5-6 hour spans at night and during the day will sleep right through all of Eli's craziness which says a lot right there. Eli still loves having Allie around. He actually is starting to get protective of her which is cute. Eli is well Eli. He can be the sweetest kid at times and then other times he can throw the biggest fits for what appears to be for no reason. He as always is extremely active and lately has to throw everything he picks up. I joke that with as much as he throws things he better be a quarterback or pitcher someday. I am not going to lie having two kids is HARD many days I don't get dressed the house seems to always be a mess and we don't really go anywhere but every now and then I will have those "this is all worth it" type of moments. I have taken a ton of pics these past two months and it was hard to go through them all so here are a few I was gonna put even more but got tired of uploading and trying to distract Eli while I am on the computer.

Troy put the blanket on his head and surprisingly he didn't want to take it off

Crazy kid

Eli LOVES the pool. It took awhile for him to warm up to it but now he thinks he is a pro

Oh by the way Troy no longer works at UPS. Which also means he no longer has to wake up at 3 in the morning. YEAH!! UPS has been great to work with but a position came available in the Financial Offices at Dalton State so Troy applied and got it. It will be great for his resume and a pay increase is always nice. It also means he doesn't have to work anymore Saturdays which makes me super excited!!!

Where to begin...

2010-06-27T09:03:00.012-04:00

WARNING: EXTREMELY LONG POST..for me anyway

Well I guess the best place to begin is with the most exciting thing that has happened to us over these past few months... I am no longer pregnant and we have welcomed our sweet little girl unto our family...

Allie Elizabeth McGuire

June 10, 2010 1:09 am

7 lbs 8 oz 20.5 in long

The delivery story was actually a short one. And its funny how similar it was to Eli's. I went to the doctor earlier that week and they decided to set an induction date for early Thursday morning. We decided to go ahead and bring Eli to my parent's house the night before so we wouldn't have to wake him up so early. That whole day I was having contractions, not regular though. It was my back to was driving me crazy. With Eli I knew it was time when I had bring me to my knees contractions so this time I thought nothing of the back pain. After realizing that we might as well just go ahead and go to the hospital since Eli was taken care and I was NOT going to get any sleep at home. We got there and the nurse didn't think it would be anytime soon until the baby came...until she checked me. I was a 5 and since the doctor on call was in the next room delivering a baby they decided to keep me. The doctor came in, I was about a 7, and decided to break my water. OUCH!! The contractions started instantly and by this time were about a minute apart. Thankfully I was able to get an epidural just in time. The doctor came in again and it was time to push. About 3 pushes later she arrived!! From the time Troy and I walked in the door to when she was born was about 2.5 hours. I know some of you out there are cursing my name...sorry don't blame me blame her she was just ready to come.

The funny thing was she was exactly 10 days early just like Eli.

As we where in the hospital things started off pretty routine. She was actually doing really well. Eating alot better than Eli ever did. Very alert. Perfect. Thursday afternoon she started having these "episodes" where her oxygen levels would drop and would sometimes stop breathing. They decided to keep her in the nursery to monitor her and just bring her in our room to feed her. These continued Thursday night and Friday morning mainly occurring before she would eat. They thought it might be related to reflux but weren't quite sure yet. Friday she had one were they nurses had to stimulate her to get her breathing again. After this they decided to admit her into the NI CU for closer observation, which also meant that only Troy and I and our parents could go in to see her. Talking about this after the fact is a lot easier than what it was like during all this. To say this was hard is indeed an understatement. To see my perfect little girl having these problems and hearing the doctors say they have no idea what is causing it to happen...I can't put into words the emotions Troy and I both felt. I felt so helpless, frustrated, and torn. Helpless because there was nothing I could do to make this problem go away. Frustrated because we had no idea how long she was going to be in the hospital. And torn because now having two kids every time I was with Allie I felt like I was neglecting Eli ( which I knew he was more than well taken care of,,,thanks SO MUCH for everyone that watched him) and when I would go and see Eli I felt horrible for leaving Allie in this situation. Those first few days that she was in the NICU were indeed some of the hardest moments of my life. But how lucky we are to have the gospel, the priesthood, and family. All the prayers we received were and are definitely felt. After Troy and I both received a blessing the sadness and despair were still there but there also was hope and comfort. Every time we would here the phone ring telling us it was time to feed her we both would get so giddy and once we walked into her room we knew without a doubt everything was going to work out. We still didn't know how long that would take but we knew it was going to be ok.

The doctors said they wanted her to go about 3 days without having an episode before we could take her home. During this time they performed test after test. each test came back negative which was a blessing but they still didn't know what was causing this. We then decided if she had one more episode we were going to transfer her to the children's hospital in the area. Each time we went into see her the nurse told us that she didn't have any episodes. This was amazing news but we didn't want to get our hopes up too much. Thursday came, her 1 week birthday, after the doctor examined her and seeing how much progress she was making decided if she did well through the night we could go home with her on a monitor tomorrow!! Once again words can't express the way we felt only this time in a positive way.

Finally after a long and trying 8 days we finally were able to take our little girl home. They diagnosed her with sleep apnea and mild reflux. She probably will be on a monitor for at least two months. but other than that she is perfect in every way and so excited to now be a family of four.

Last pregnancy pic before heading to the hospital

Being held by her mamma and daddy for the first time

Pics from where we spent the most of our time, the NICU. Since I was breastfeeding her and they weren't too busy we got to stay in a room there as a courtesy. She was the only full-term baby in there and looked so big compared to the premies.

On our way home!!!

Eli LOVES Allie. Maybe a little too much. He always wants to give her hugs and kisses. Any advice on how to teach an almost 2 year how to be gentle and soft???

Of course I have a ton more pictures and video so hopefully I will be a lot better with posting now but as always no promises.

Way over due...

2010-04-06T12:21:00.005-04:00

Once again I let too much time go by between updating. There has been alot going on over the past two months so I will just do a quick recap with some pictures.

The beginning of March we headed off to Utah to visit Troy's family. It was so much fun to spend time with everyone and get away from normal everyday life. Eli loved playing with his cousin Hunter.
At the Zoo in Salt Lake

Playing at the Park in Utah.

There is a park next to Troy's parents' house that we would walk to when we were dating. The pic on the left is soon after we got engaged and the one on the right is from our trip...being pregnant I didn't even try to squeeze myself into the tunnel.

Easter!!! The annual Easter egg hunt at my parents' house

The advantages of having a tall daddy

Eli LOVED finding the eggs and putting them in his basket. He still walks around the house with his basket trying to find whatever he can to put in it

Easter morning...he loved his bubbles and chocolate bunny even though he thought it was more of a toy than candy.

Other than that we have been enjoying the warm weather...finally!! Troy is as always busy with work and school. I am about 30 weeks now so almost the home stretch which lasts FOREVER. I don't know if I rather deal with being uncomfortable or learning how to be a mom of 2!Eli is getting bigger which means alot more active. He loves to be on the go and rarely will sit still. He is talking a ton...even though Troy and I may be the only ones that understand him. Yes he can be a handful but he sure makes things fun around here!!

Chocolate syrup anyone?

2010-02-17T15:21:00.004-05:00

So Eli's new all time favorite thing is chocolate milk...who could blame him right? The other day we ran out of chocolate syrup so when we went grocery shopping we picked up some more. Eli carried the bottle the whole time in the store and in the car, never trying to open it. We get home and I walk from the front door to put the groceries on the counter, a total of 5 seconds, and hear Eli screaming as if he is in excruciating pain. He managed to get the plastic cover off and unscrew the lid and empty it all on himself and the carpet and kitchen floor and was screaming because it was all gone! Fun day...

18 Months!!

2010-02-08T15:02:00.004-05:00

Eli turned 18 months yesterday. Which also was his first official time going to nursery at church. He has been trying it out for the past couple of months and would be fine until it was time to clean up the toys but yesterday he actually stayed all by himself the whole time!! Today he went for his 18 month check-up. He weighs 27 lbs 22 oz and is 32 inches tall. He is starting to want to be more and more independent which has its pros and cons. He has decided that he is just to big for a high chair and wants to sit at the big table to eat. He actually is doing pretty good at this and is eating alot more. Eli still loves anything pixar. Unfortunately he also is entering the throwing fits stage. He will be laughing and playing then all of a sudden the world is over...fun!

Here are a few pictures of our not so little anymore guy...

Eli loves babies. He couldn't get enough of his cousin Regan the other day. Eventhough I think she had enough of him.

First day of nursery

Just like his daddy

Typical Eli

Such a big boy

(we are in the process of getting a booster seat)

It's a...

2010-02-02T14:39:00.005-05:00

As always it has been a while since I last posted. This has been a busy and LONG month. One of the most exciting things to happen this month is we found out what we are having....It's a.......

GIRL!!!

We are really excited even though it is hard to think girly when we have a little boy running around the house. I am officially half-way (man you are pregnant for a long time) But do have to say I think this time around I am trying to enjoy the baby being "in" alot more.

Eli as always is everywhere and into everything. His favorite thing to do his get in the pantry climb to the third shelf to get his snacks... We REALLY need to get a lock on that door!! It is nice to actually be able to talk to him and him understand you and even talk back. He will be 18 months on Sunday.I know everybody says it but it really does go by fast.

Troy is busy busy busy with work and school and church. I don't know how he does it. I am starting to feel better. The nausea is mainly just at night which is so much more manageable than being all day. I have started feeling the baby move alot more which is the part of being pregnant that I love.

Here is a little look at what we have been up to:

January is birthday month for Troy and I. Yes that is me asleep on the couch. Eli was really sick on my birthday so by the time Troy got home from work and a church meeting I was worn out and still enjoying the "wonderful" side effects of being pregnant. I guess that is why its nice to have your birthdays a week apart because we were able to make up for it on Troy's birthday.
And yes I made that delicious chocolate peanut butter cake for Troy...it was AMAZING if I do say so myself.

A few weeks ago we took Eli for his second haircut. He hated it!!! It was NOT a fun experience. I do miss his baby curls but felt he did need to see and was tired of telling people he is a boy! It is impossible to get a real picture of this boy so for now the candids will have to work.

Last the two times it "snowed" Eli has been sick so we made sure he got to experience the snow this time around. He helped build his first snowman knocked it down and then was ready to go inside.

Usually Eli can't wait to take his shoes off. But lately he has realized that shoes=going outside so one of the first things he does in the mornings is go to his closets to try and put on his shoes.

Has it really been that long?

2010-01-04T08:47:00.010-05:00

I can't believe that we haven't posted anything since Halloween!! We are long overdue for a quick update. One of the main reasons for not posting in a awhile is due to the fact that....

I'm pregnant!!!!

Crazy I know!!! i am excited but I think I am more nervous thinking about having two than I was with Eli. I am 16 weeks...due on June 20th. I wish I could say things are great and I feel fabulous but that couldn't be farther from the truth. I don't know what it is but this pregnancy is 100% different than when I was pregnant with Eli. I have never felt more nauseous in my life. It is starting to get a little better instead of being all day it is now mainly at night and after I eat...and when I need to eat...ok maybe still all day!

Eli is more active than ever. He climbs on anything and everything!!!! Our kitchen table chairs are no longer at the table. He opens doors and thinks it is funny to go where he is not supposed to go. He also is talking a ton. I think my favorite new word is "peas" (please). It is too cute. He LOVES Toy Story. All day long its "Buzz Buzz Buzz Buzz" with the occasional "Woody." He is a handful but at the same time so much fun!!

Sadly I haven't taken too many pictures these past couple months. Here is a few to show what we've been up too:

Always on the go!!

Like I said he loves Toy Story. (This was before he got his Buzz for Christmas)

Some people need their coffee before they can start the day. Eli needs his milk. Let's just say he wasn't too happy Christmas morning until he had his

Christmas!!!

Troy's parents came into town the week after Christmas. Eli loved the constant attention and got very spoiled while they were here. When we went to the aquarium he loved the "mo" (Nemo) fish.

We have tried to get a few pictures of his recent climbing accomplishments, second shelf in the pantry, on top of the table without a chair, on the desk...but we aren't quick enough or have to stop him from jumping off, maybe next time.

Halloween!!

2009-11-02T12:27:00.003-05:00

Can you believe another Halloween has come and gone! This year Eli was Yoda and was adorable. He loved dressing up and carrying his pumpkin around. He had a blast trick-or-treating with all his cousins. He actually lasted alot longer than I thought he would. And would probably do it every night if we let him.

At our ward's trunk-or-treat. I was actually in charge this year. Let's just say I am glad it is behind me. I had a lot of fun planning it all but after so much you are just ready for it to be over. The sad thing is with all the craziness of the night I didn't take any pictures of the decorations :(
The front porch picture is tradition in my family for all the kids that dressed up. I remember doing it when I was younger. I still can't believe that I have a child in those pictures!!
(it is pretty much impossible to get everyone still and smiling this is the best I got)

Trick-or-Treating!

To get the full affect of Eli's costume you have to see him walking in it. Too cute!!

First Haircut and alittle extra

2009-10-23T07:59:00.009-04:00

Not by choice a couple weeks ago Eli had his first hair cut. It was getting so long that in the front it would be constantly getting in his eyes, nose and even his mouth when he ate. We couldn't just trim the front because people would think he was a little girl. The lady who cut it tried to leave some curl which I love. It is funny how a first haircut can turn a baby into a toddler. He is growing up so fast!!!

Before

During

He did alright. Well let's be honest it wasn't his favorite thing to do.

After

Eli is learning alot of new words. His new favorite is blue. Yes just like every other momma out there I think my baby is a genius. I probably shouldn't add that everything is blue. He did say yellow once though, I have witnesses.

A few pictures...

2009-10-03T21:39:00.006-04:00

Here are a few pics to show what we have been up to lately....

I was so excited that one of my good friends Andrea came for a visit. It was so much fun watching our kids play together. I think they had a blast. Andrea ya'll have to come back soon!!!

Eli puts anything and everything on his head like a hat...he thinks he is so funny when he does, its hilarious to watch him laugh at himself.

Last Friday Eli went to his first Ringgold game of the season. He actually did a lot better than I thought. What can I say he was born a football fan.

As mentioned already Eli loves to put anything on his head. For about 30 minutes he climbed on and off the laundry basket...crazy kid!

~alittle side story...so I thought that I would try and be a good mom and instead of telling Eli something is mine when he is getting into somebody's stuff I would say "That's mamma's" or "That daddy's" well since let's be honest its pretty much just me and Eli I noticed I was saying "that's mamma's" alot. Eli noticed too. Now if there is something that he wants he doesn't point to it and say Mine he says "mammas" so to all those we pass at the grocery store with their buggies full a things a one year old would love to get his hands on, no he is not calling you mamma he just wants your stuff. (atleast I hope he's not:)

Update time...

2009-09-15T14:37:00.009-04:00

We are way over due for an update. This past month has been pretty busy. The weekend of Eli's birthday Troy's parents came into town on business. we had a lot of fun spending time with them and were able to meet up with them in Kentucky for some more fun. The day before we went to Kentucky we moved into another apartment. I know prefect timing. It was a little hectic for awhile but we are all settled in and finally adjusting to living on the other side of town. Troy has started another semester which means he is gone a lot :( He also got a new calling in the Young Men's Presidency which he has really enjoyed. Eli is growing up more and more everyday. It is going too fast! He has definitely entered the toddler stage of life with getting more independent which also translates into being more stubborn (I wonder where he gets that from:) He is such the talker to anybody else it is just babbling but when you are with him 24/7 it starts making sense. Yes juice, shoe, and Jesus all sound very close to the same. As well as blocks, books, and, ball but I know what he means well some of the time. He is always asking, "what's that?" At his year check up last month he weighed 24 lbs and was 30 inches tall, even though he feels like alot more. And his greatest accomplishment this past month....He is FINALLY walking!! It is so cute to watch him get his balance and go. He is starting to get pretty fast and is everywhere. I still can't believe I have a little boy that walks. we still haven't gotten a new camera so please don't be too critical of the poor quality of pictures or lack thereof. I hate not having a camera and HOPE we get one very soon!!!

I meant to post this on his birthday, just a little something to show how much he has grown this past year

(make sure you sound is on)

Kentucky

This picture is mainly to show his hair. It is starting to curl around his ears. I know I probably need to cut it soon but I think it is adorable.

Eli loves Pixar movies. Right now its Monsters. He doesn't sit through the whole thing but it is nice to have 10-15 mins of quite.

I know this maybe alittle long but I wanted to get some of Eli walking/talking. Sorry for the poor quality its hard to video tape with a 1 year old trying to grab the camera the whole time.

( I left his squeekers in his shoes just for you Elizabeth:)

Just thought this was cute

He's 1!

2009-08-11T07:02:00.004-04:00

Last Friday the 7th was Eli's first birthday. I know everybody says this but I really can't believe how fast this past year went. He is growing up so much. Here are a few pictures of his birthday and of course a little flash back of how much he has grown.

He is such a little boy. He still isn't walking yet. But he has taken 3-4 steps and is starting to get really good at standing. Some of his new favorites are playing catch (he actually throws pretty good!), climbing on everything, trying to tackle you, and playing with cars ( he is even making noises when he drives him that sounds like cars). He sure keeps me busy but I love this little guy! I will try and get some video up soon.

Where's Eli?

2009-07-28T21:07:00.005-04:00

No Eli is not walking yet. He is so close. He will stand up by himself but that's about it. His latest "trick" is climbing. He loves to climb in and on everything.

Sorry the pictures may not be the best quality. Our camera has decided to stop working (well, I actually dropped it...still a very sensitive subject) and we have resorted to our phones to take pictures until we either get it fixed or get a new one

He took everything out and got in all by himself...yes we do have safety locks on the cabinets well expect this one.

Coupons!!!

2009-07-15T21:05:00.003-04:00

Yes, I have joined the couponing world. For the past few months I decided what the heck I will give it a try. And now I am addicted. I mean who doesn't want to save money. Like I said I am new to this so those of you that are pros might not think these are amazing deals but they were to me!

Publix-$9.16

Publix-Total $8.72
Bi-lo Total-$7.26

I thought I took a picture of my CVS deal but guess I didn't because I can't find it anywhere but for $16.72 I got 5,yes 5 bottles of Febreeze, 1 Febreeze Noticeable(there version of a plug-in), Pantene Pro-V Shampoo, Condition, Hairspray, and Deep Conditioning Treatment, A Venus Spa Breeze razor (not the disposable kind either), 50 photos printed, and 2 things of pantyliners. I think that was all but for some reason I feel like I am forgetting something.

For those that know me know that I am what you may call "cheap" (I prefer frugal) and yes now with my new addiction it is worse!!!!!!

11 months

2009-07-07T22:12:00.005-04:00

It is that time again for Eli's monthly update. I cannot believe next month he will be a year old!! He has completely mastered crawling and is fast. He will climb up on anything and everything. We thought we had our house baby proofed before but had to make some recent changes. He will stand up on his own for a few seconds and will walk along the furniture. Eli loves to push his highchair around as he walks. It won't be long and our lives will change again with him walking!!

He still will eat just about anything. His recent favorites are waffles, muffins, gold fish, yogurt, peaches, watermelon, and peas/carrots. It is so nice that he has learned to feed himself. He usually makes a HUGE mess but it is nice to be able to fix dinner or actually eat myself. His top 2 teeth FINALLY came in last week. Which means he is also sleeping alot better.

It is so much fun just to watch him play. You can tell that the wheels are turning and he is starting to really understand how things work. His favorite games include rolling or throwing the ball back and forth, peek-a-boo(as always), wrestling on the floor, and putting his toys in and out of the toy basket. He also went swimming for the first time last month and loves the water. He will just babble on and on. Still working on saying mama he says it but not consistently. I swear he says Kinsley (his cousin). Whenever he see her he makes a sound that sounds just like her name. It is so sweet, he gets so excited when troy comes home and will say dada dada da non stop. Oh another thing he started doing is taking one of our old cell phones putting it up to his ear and talking. It is really cute. I am still trying to get it on video.

I am sure I can write forever about all the things Eli has learned but most importantly Eli is just one happy little boy. You can't help but smile just being around him.

Clingman's Dome

2009-07-01T20:22:00.004-04:00

On our way back from Pigeon Forge we stopped and did a little hiking up to Clingman's Dome. On the way down we took a detour and hiked some of the Appalachian trail...just to say we did. The weather was actually perfect, besides the fog, I guess that is why its called to Great Smokies. Eli was fantastic the whole time but he usually is if he is outside. I think this just might be a new tradition in the making.

Dollywood

2009-06-30T21:10:00.004-04:00

If you know my family then you know that every summer we go to Dollywood. My family is big on traditions and this is definitely one of my favorites. It was so much fun going with everyone especially with it being Eli's first year.

D-D-Dollywood and P-P-Pigeon Forge

(Lisa that's for you)

We also went to Splash Country, the waterpark right next door. I was a little worried with how Eli would like it. He absolutely loved the water. By the end of the day he was worn out.

In the big tub

More Dollywood

...until next year!!

Sound asleep

2009-06-19T20:30:00.004-04:00

These past few weeks Eli has been going through yet again another "phase". He would only sleep for maybe an hour during his one and only nap. And when it was time for him to go to sleep at night I would have to rock him until he was sound asleep. If I laid him down before he was asleep he would scream. I would try and let him cry it out. And that is exactly what he would do...cry and cry and cry and cry. I felt horrible. But today gave me hope. I know I am probably jinxing myself by celebrating too soon but Eli took a 45 min nap this morning and then a 2 1/2 hour nap this afternoon and I just laid him in his crib for the night while he was what appeared to be wide awake thinking here we go again but he didn't make a sound and is now fast asleep. Oh I hope this is a new "phase!"

This was from earlier this week when I took Eli with me for a run. And yes it was one of his only naps that day

run...run...run

2009-06-16T20:33:00.002-04:00

Last weekend Elizabeth, Lindsey, one of our friends Sarah, and I ran the 10k Riverbend Race. It was my first race since I had Eli and was actually a lot of fun. I finished in in about 52 mins. which I was very happy with. I think the fastest guy ran a 5.15 min/mile which is crazy!! We did it to finish it which we all did and are currently planning for our next race in August!! I do have to say it was quite enjoyable to do something just for me.

Take me out to the ballgame...

2009-06-08T20:38:00.006-04:00

Eli went to his first Braves game on Friday. I was a little worried with how he would do since the game didn't start until 7:30 but he did AMAZING. We didn't have to get up with him at all the whole game. He even sat and watched the fireworks without crying. I guess he really is a true baseball fan.

We were also able to stay with my brother Paul and his wife Sarah that night so we could go to the temple Saturday morning. It was a well needed trip. Thanks again guys for watching Eli and letting us stay!!!

Oh, Eli turned 10 months old on Sunday...He is getting so big. I know we all say it but I really can't believe how quick he is growing up. He is everywhere and into everything and I know it will only get worse when he starts walking. He pulls himself up on just about anything. He has even let go a few times to stand on his own for a few seconds. He is pretty much done with baby food and will eat just about anything. He LOVES sweet potatoes, chicken noodle soup, green peas, and mandarin oranges (and chocolate pudding what can I say he takes after his momma). He is still babbling all the time. He finally is starting to say mamama. yeah!!!

I am not sure how we figured this out but he is completely memorized by Finding Nemo. He won't watch any other movie just Nemo. It is nice to know that I can turn it on while I get ready without him trying to crawl up my legs.

Yes he can be a handful at times but how can you not love the little guy I know I do!!!!!

Congratulations

2009-05-26T20:52:00.005-04:00

I just wanted to first congratulate my brother Jonathan on his graduation from Dental School earlier this month.

And also my other brother, Eric, on his wedding this past weekend.

Congratulations!! We are so proud of both of you!!!

~Oh and if you are wondering where I got that adorable tie Eli is wearing...Elizabeth, my EXTREMELY talented sister made it. And is adding it to her Lazybee collection. They are very reasonably priced and indestructible to a very active 9 1/2 month old.

Here are just a few random pictures of Eli

Eli and his cousins Kinsley and Benjamin

Eli giving me my Mother's day flowers...it was adorable

Eli and Kinsley

The"cage" the only way we can keep him in one spot...it is not as bad as it looks :)

3 years and a day

2009-05-13T13:53:00.003-04:00

Yesterday Troy and I celebrated our 3rd Wedding Anniversary...How did I get so lucky?

oh little update...Eli has FINALLY had a tooth come through!!

And so it begins...

2009-05-07T21:21:00.009-04:00

Eli is 9 months old today!! He is getting so big. And so grown up. You can tell that he is really starting to understand the world around him. Here are some of his recent accomplishments:

1. Crawling

2. Pulling himself up

3. Clapping

4. Waving

5. Turning off the lights

6. Closing doors

7. Repeating sounds (mainly da-da and num-num, while he eats)

8. Sleeping through the night, again YEAH!!!!

His 9 month stats:

21.10 lbs

28 inches

Like I said Eli is crawling and our lives are never going to be the same. These pictures and video are from last Saturday when he was just starting to figure it out. Now less than a week later he is everywhere!!

Eli loves his cousin Kinsley. When you say her name he looks around for her. This is them playing at my dad's office.

I know I am very behind in posting these but at the beginning of March when we went to out to Utah my very talented brother-in-law, Daniel, took some pictures for us. As you can tell I can't choose which ones I like the best. There is even more than this. Thanks Daniel you did an amazing job!!

Swing Swing

2009-05-01T08:29:00.004-04:00

With warm weather finally here I am sure we will be doing a lot of this this summer

Typical Eli...tongue out, shirt covered in drool, and "trying" to move

Laugh until you cry

2009-04-17T19:53:00.002-04:00

Tonight when I was starting to get Eli's dinner ready I was interrupted by this. I was glad to have the video camera close by. Now what you may ask was so hilarious? I was trying to kill a fly with a pot holder. I would of laughed to. Oh and he really did almost start to cry...he had tears! It was too funny!!

Easter

2009-04-14T08:50:00.010-04:00

I think Eli really enjoyed his first Easter egg hunt. Being outside and playing with things that resembled a ball, who could ask for more.

Instead of having a basket full of candy the Easter Bunny left Eli a basket full of plastic eggs. Which he could not get enough of. He literally sat there for almost an hour playing.

Overall we did have a really good Easter. Most importantly it was very humbling to be able to reflect on the true meaning this time of year has. How grateful we are for our Savior and how blessed we are to know that He has Risen!

We hope that everybody enjoyed their Easter weekend.

I Know we are not too Springy in our outfits, we actually didn't even plan on matching either.

--Oh a little update so Eli is FINALLY sleeping better at night and taking naps but now he doesn't want to eat anything...I know another phase!

Update time again...

2009-04-10T08:50:00.008-04:00

I guess it is time for another update. I was getting so good at posting semi-regularly, oh well. On April the 7th Eli turned 8 months. He is getting so big and smart. It is so much fun to see him starting to understand the world around him a little better. Here is a little update on him.

He is SO close to crawling. He will lunge at his toys while he is sitting up and just when you think he is going to take off he pushes himself to just sit up again. He does scoot backwards though. Which actually gets him pretty frustrated because he gets farther from his toys than closer. When on his stomach Eli can push himself to change his direction but that's about it. He babbles all day long. Of course his favorite is da-da-da (why is that with babies when usually their dads are gone all day) He did make the ma sound for a few days then went back to da. He loves just about everything I feed him. What can I say he is definitely a boy. He LOVES to be outside. Or even just looking out the window makes him happy. Bath time is always exciting. He would probably stay in there for hours if I let him. I really can't wait to take him swimming. Eli tries to pull himself up on anything around him. I wish I could say that he was sleeping better. He has started to take somewhat better naps. But it really varies from day to day. Yesterday though he did take two pretty long naps so I guess there is still hope. I tell myself it is just teething....still no teeth though. Eli loves to bang anything I give him to play with. Even his head on the wall/floor/church pue. He thinks its funny...crazy kid. He waves and claps not on demand of course. He actually claps with his feet more than his hands.

Overall things here are going pretty well. Besides the unseasonably cold weather we had this past week we are all really excited for Spring time to FINALLY be here! Troy is busy as ever with the semester getting ready to come to an end. Then I believe he has maybe a day or two break before he starts again in the summer. I got a new church calling second counselor in the Relief Society. Let's just say it will definitely be a growing experience. Next post I will try to include a video so everyone can really see how Eli is growing.

Scooting backwards

Pulling himself up

Looking outside. This is by far is my new favorite discovery. I usually can get quite a bit done.

Why??

2009-03-30T21:22:00.002-04:00

Why is that in life once you think, "hey I can handle this" things change. This time it is Eli and his sleeping. I am not sure if it was going to Utah and the time difference, daylight savings, Eli getting sick, me getting sick, or just a "stage" he is just not sleeping. He used to be such a good sleeper. Two LONG naps during the day and then would sleep at night from 7-7 occasionally waking up only to quickly eat and go right back to sleep. Oh how I would love to have those days back. Let's just say last night I stopped counting at 5 times of Eli waking up which all occured before 2 am. Tonight he went to bed at his usual 7 but has already woken up once...its going to be a long night. I know I am just going on and on about this but when you have tasted that sweet victory of your child sleeping through the night only to have go back to those sleepless nights and days, it can get to you.

What a month...

2009-03-24T19:48:00.005-04:00

These past few weeks have been nothing short of crazy. On March 7th we went out to Utah to visit Troy's family. It was nice to be able to get away and to be able to see everyone. While we were there we were able to eat at Cafe Rio, see some snow, have Daniel take some family pics and pictures of Eli, eat at Tucanos, attend the temple with Sean for his endowments, and have lots of fun with family and friends.

Cousins

Eli and Hunter

We got back home around 2:30 Saturday morning. Troy then had to be at the church at 7:30 am to ref youth basketball games all day. That afternoon Eli started to feel pretty warm and sure enough he had a fever. Monday I took him to the doctor ( which is pretty good when you think of it, at 7 1/2 months old he is just now getting sick for the first time) he had a minor ear infection and nasty cough. Nothing a week of antibiotics wouldn't fix. While we were there they weighed him...19.14 lbs. He really is such a good baby though. You could tell he didn't feel good but he would still be all smiles. Then on Wednesday I woke up with what I thought was nothing but come to find out I got that nasty stomach bug that always seems to be going around. After three days of not keeping even a sip of water down we decided it was time to go to the Emergency Room. Being a Friday night it was a pretty busy trauma night in the ER which meant we waited over 8 hours until we were seen, yes 8 it was extremely ridiculous!!! Let's just say it was by far the LONGEST night of my life, and probably Troy's too he was such a trooper through the whole ordeal. So after we finally got seen and two bags of fluids in my IV the doctor diagnosed me with a kidney infection and stomach virus. yeah for me! I am finally starting to feel back to normal. It is crazy how much you miss something as simple a drinking a glass of water when you can't. These past few days have made me even more grateful for family. My mom is the most selfless person I know and she proved that once again as she diligently took care of not only Eli but also me!

Another milestone...

2009-02-25T20:13:00.006-05:00

Last week we decided Eli was getting a little too big for his baby bathtub.

He absolutely LOVED taking a bath in the "big" bathtub. Even though like always you can't really see it in the picture.

I have been meaning to post this pic from a few weeks ago.

Eli playing with his mamateel.

(thanks Kellen for letting us borrow your bumbo!!)

How can you not love this little guy?!

Too Fast!

2009-02-10T13:46:00.016-05:00

On Saturday the 7th Eli turned 6 months old.

These last 6 months have gone way too fast. Trust me there have been many of those LONG days where I just wish he could talk to tell me what he wanted or that he could walk so I didn't have to carry him, the diaper bag and whatever else I needed to grab. But on Sunday afternoon when Eli was taking a nap after church Troy and I tiptoed in his room just to watch him sleep I think we both got a little emotional thinking about how big he really is getting. He is not our little newborn any more. It makes you realize that yes it can be extremely hard at times but how important it is to not to wish another day away. This is really such a fun age. Right now my favorite thing is going to get him out of his crib in the mornings. I love how once he sees me he will start smiling and laughing, he gets so excited. He is mastering baby food quite well. He has liked just about everything we have given him. Like I said in previous posts he LOVES to play peek-a-boo. Some of his favorite toys are measuring cups a big mixing spoon and a very colorful giraffe. Eli also gets very excited when his daddy comes home. It is so sweet to see him raise his arms in the air and get a huge smile on his face when Troy walks in the room. I could probably go on and on about what an amazing little guy he is. But I won't and just show some pictures instead because I know that's what everybody likes to see!

--Oh we took him for his 6 month check-up he now weighs 18.12 lbs

and is 27 inches long--

Playtime

Now that Eli sits up he has a whole different prospective of his once favorite rain forest gym

"Story time"

First time drinking juice.

It is a tradition in my family that when you turn 6 months you get a cupcake. So on Sunday after family dinner we let Eli dig in. He absolutely LOVED it. It took him a little bit to figure out exactly what was going on but once he did we had to literally pull him away from the mess.

This is another one of Eli's new favorite games. If he starts fussing all you have to do is make a tent over him and he is fine. He is such a little boy.

Swinging at the park.

I cannot wait till Spring!!

Peek-a-boo

2009-02-05T20:07:00.004-05:00

These past few weeks Eli has discovered the game of peek-a-boo. He will do it just about every time he gets his hands on a blanket. He loves it!

Laughing

2009-01-30T20:37:00.002-05:00

It seems like every time I would try and get Eli on camera doing anything whether it was laughing, "talking", or playing peek-a-boo he would stop once he saw the camera. I finally got him laughing today. Don't you just love how a baby's laugh can always make you smile.

First...

2009-01-24T16:16:00.007-05:00

Since Eli has become a pro at sitting up he has experienced quite a few firsts over the last few months:

The beginning of December Eli went in his stroller without his carrier for the first time

Sitting in a highchair at restaurants

(Sorry its kind of blurry)

Making grocery shopping a ton easier, sitting by himself in the buggy

This is probably Eli's favorite sitting up accomplishment...swinging. You can't really tell in the picture but he loved it!

A month FULL of Birthdays!

2009-01-16T20:49:00.014-05:00

Today is my wonderful, good-lookin', smart, considerate, loving, charming, romantic, did I say handsome husband, Troy's, birthday. I am not usually one to go on and get all lovey dovey especially on a blog but I did want to say that I don't know how I got so lucky to have him in my life. It is funny how much one person can become apart of who you are. Happy Birthday baby...you deserve the world and I promise I will try everyday of my life to give it to you.

Happy Birthday Elizabeth, whose Birthday is also today. Thanks for ALL that you are have done for me especially since Eli has been born. You will never know how much it means to me to have you live next door. I am so grateful to have you as a sister and a friend.

1986 (I think???)

Happy Birthday Hannah! (Jan 17th) You know you have been like a sister to me. It amazes me how much you always know exactly what to do/say to make someone feel like they are the only one in the world that matters. We have been through a lot over the years and all of it is worth it to be where we are today!

Llama Fest '05

I can't mention January birthdays without wishing my other two sisters Lindsey and Victoria a Happy Birthday as well! I love you girls a ton and ya'll are such examples to me. It is also my two nieces Kayla and Olivia's birthdays this month...Happy Birthday!!

Sorry this picture is so small I tried and tried to get it bigger but it's getting late I am getting tired so this will just have to do

2009-01-12T20:22:00.002-05:00

5 Months
January 7th

2009-01-03T17:20:00.003-05:00

Happy New Year

Fireworks

Confetti

Big Cookie

I.B.C. Rootbeer

The Pyramid

Family

Tradition....enough said.

2008-12-31T08:18:00.003-05:00

Can you believe it? I am actually posting twice in the same week! Here is a clip of Eli rolling over.

A much needed Update

2008-12-30T20:34:00.017-05:00

Before this year comes to an end I guess I should let everyone know what we have been up to this last month. I looked forward to Troy having almost 3 weeks off of school in vain due this being his busy time at work with UPS. At least he got Christmas day off. Eli is growing and changing every day. In November he started rolling over. He did it a handful of times then took a few weeks off and is now starting to roll from his belly to back again. We are still working on the other way. He also started laughing and making a ton of noises. It is so funny how he tries to "talk" to you. Eli is trying his best to sit up. He is doing really well at it even though there are times he just folds over like a taco. He turned four months old back on Dec. 7th. At his check-up he weighed 16.6 pounds and measured 26 inches long. We decided to go ahead and see how he would do with rice cereal. He loves it. It didn't take him long to get the hang of the whole spoon thing. We used to put him in his high chair to play with his toys while we were in the kitchen but now once he is in there he wants to eat. I better not say this because I will probably jinx myself but Eli is finally on a pretty consistent sleeping/eating schedule. A month or two ago I thought this wasn't possible.

A few pictures to catch everybody up on how he is growing:

Thanksgiving

(don't think he's ready for the turkey leg just yet)

His new favorite toy

Helping with the laundry

First time eating rice cereal

Ready for Christmas

Christmas Morning

Family Picture
Ho Ho Ho

We hope that everybody had a wonderful Christmas and will have a good New Year!!!

Yes I know, It's about time...

2008-11-17T16:20:00.014-05:00

So I think we already clarified that I am not the best blogger out there. Maybe it will be my New Years resolution, but then again maybe not. Eli is getting SO big. He is about 3 1/2 months. At his 2 month checkup he weighed 12 pounds 11 ounces and I am pretty sure he has put on even more weight since then. Don't you just love a chubby baby. Everyday it seems like Eli is learning something new. It is so much fun that he is really starting to recognizing you and the world around him. I don't think I will ever get tired of seeing him smile. He is starting to get more on a schedule which I love. But he still likes to surprise me and throw those "fun" days in the mix. I do have to say though it is alot of fun having this little guy around.

Here are a few photos of what we have been up to these past few weeks:

Taking a much needed nap for the both of us

After getting his shots at his 2 month check-up.

I think this is by far my favorite way to spend any afternoon

So these past few months Eli has had a lot of first and will have many more in the months to come. At the end of October Eli had his first trip on an airplane to Arizona. Troy's Grandma McGuire passed away and we were very grateful that we were given the opportunity to attend the funeral and visit with family.

In Arizona Eli was able to meet his cousin Hunter (Troy's sister, Stacie's little boy) It was so much fun seeing them together

These are a few pictures from Arizona with Troy's family.

For Halloween we were still in Arizona but we made sure that Eli didn't miss out on getting dressed up for his first Halloween and taking a few pictures when we got back.

I just like this picture of him smiling

I like this one too:)

I love seeing how much he has grown. These pictures were taken at 2 days, 1 month, 2 months, and three months.

7 weeks...

2008-09-25T13:25:00.023-04:00

Wow...7 weeks...it is hard to believe that Eli is 7 weeks old. It's hard to remember what life was like before Eli. He is such a blessing in our life. Yes Troy and I haven't sleep more than 3 consecutive hours of sleep at night. And I feel that my days are filled with nursing and changing diapers and even more nursing. And then when I do get out and go somewhere I usually have to make the run for the car to yes you guessed it feed the little guy. But it is all worth it and more to have a healthy happy and growing baby boy(at his month check-up he weighed 8.12 lbs). Eli is starting to show his personality. It is getting fun that he is starting to recogonize the world around him. It is funny how you'll have one day where he will sleep when I am ready for him to sleep so I can get things done and I can see that slight glimpse of hope that an actual routine is in the future and then the next day everytime I try and lay him down he cries. I guess I have to keep on living for those "good days"

Here are a few pictures of Eli during the past 7 weeks of his life:

Some of Eli's hospital visitors

Eli and his grandaddy at just 1 day old

Eli's cousin Kinsley just loves being around Eli. She will always run up to him saying "I-lie, I-lie" and will always try and share whatever she has with him

Sweet Dreams

Mohawk!!!

Eli and Grandpa McGuire

Eli's Blessing

Eli LOVES his rainforest gym, especially the tucan bird

GO DAWGS!!!

(He loves his Georgia Snuggly made by lazy bee)

Eli and Kinsley

Sunday afternoon

Eli Jordan McGuire

2008-08-11T19:34:00.001-04:00

Eli Jordan McGuire

2008-08-10T20:18:00.005-04:00

On Wednesday we were going to post that Stephanie was going to be induced on Friday morning, but Eli had his own plans. On Thursday at 11:14 am after a long night Eli Jordan McGuire finally arrived. Weighing 7 lbs 1.8 oz and 20 inches long, and a whole head of hair.

Baby Shower

2008-08-05T21:22:00.001-04:00

I know...I know... I am not the best at this whole blogging thing yet. I will try to be better but no promises. I did want to post some pics from my baby shower at work and at home. Thanks to everyone that came. It really was perfect!!!!

It's about time...

2008-07-11T17:49:00.000-04:00

Well I know it has taken us a while but we have finally entered the blogging world!