The Jacksons

Falling Into Fall!

2011-10-23T19:57:00.000-07:00

We have been so busy and have had so much fun this fall!!! Riley just finished her fall soccer seasn scoring several and I mean several goals. She has become such a good soccer player, from season to season. She has truely enjoyed school and being in Kindergarten. We attended her fall festival/mega party which she sold enough cookie dough to get into the party for free. Earlier in the year she received the great award of Kindergartner of the month. She got her picture on the wall in the school, in the All Around Woodstock magazine, and she got to say the pledge at school. To top it all off her bottom front teeth are loose. Its crazy how fast she has grown up and now we are planning her 6th bday party to take place in December.

Reese is such a fiesty character. We got her potty trained right after school started. She was so easy to train has only had one or two accidents!!! Now, she is sleeping in her "big girl" bed. She has never attempted to get out of her crib and its still in the middle wrung but I figured she should try it. She loves her big girl bed and sleep really well on it. We basically just put the mattress on the floor so that she gets used to it and its not that far off the ground so if she falls off she won't hurt herself. She loves going to school being in the rainbow class. They had their fall party which is called Farm Day. They basically play fall games and get to go to a petting zoo. She loved petting all the animals. She is taking swim lessons still with the beloved Ms. Cat. We felt that with Riley playing soccer it was necessary for Reese to have some sort of activity as well. She loves it and its so good for her.

Johnny has had such a tiring semester. He has been coaching his U13 boys team (which is doing really well), he coached Riley's team and was the director of the world cup practices, playing tennis, referee assigning, and grading papers. He works seriously really really hard and even though sometimes we don't get to seem as often as I or the girls would like we know he is working so hard for us. He will get a short break and then when spring comes he is going to be coaching so much with high school soccer and his club team but we know he can do it and will love it.

I have been doing well. I turned 32 and celebrated with my family and husband and loved it all. I have been playing a lot of tennis and soccer and still workout all the time. My job as a nanny is still going strong. The kids I take care of are so great and they have a great time playing with my kids. It has been such a great blessing for both me and the kids. Hopefully, when the kids start PreK I will get to stay with them if they stay at the same school. We will see. I am just now preparing for the holidays, Riley's birthday, and hopefully running the Savannah Half Marathon. All in all life is good:)

End of SUMMER!!!!!!!!!!!

2011-07-24T18:50:00.000-07:00

Wow can't believe our summer is coming to an end. Riley will be starting school August 1st as a full fledge kindergartner. So, I thought I would blog about our summer. Johnny was able to spend so much time at home this summer since I kept on nannying. Riley went to soccer camp with him and to VBS at First Baptist Woodstock. She loved both so much. She also became such a good swimmer. We got her lessons through Mtn. View aquatic center and her instructor Ms. Cat was awesome. She gave her the confidence she needed to become a little fish. Swim team next summer is a must, that was one of the main things we hoped to accomplish with her this summer.

Reese has become such a cool funny little girl. She has lost her baby look and looks so much like a little girl...kinda makes me sad but its so awesome as well. We were hoping to get her fully out of diapers but that hasn't fully happened. She does go a lot on the potty but we aren't fully ready to get rid of the diapers. I am hoping by the time she is 2 1/2 we will be out of diapers which puts us at October. Riley was fully pottied trained at 2 1/2 and I would like her to be there as well. I also toyed with the idea of converting her crib into the big girl bed. Our trip to the beach and having her sleep in a big girl bed made me realize that she wasn't ready. She got up way too much and she ended up sleeping in our bed more then hers. She will be starting school this year at First Baptist Woodstock at their Wee School two days a week (August 16th to be exact), we can't to meet Ms. Rita her teacher.

For our vacation this year my wonderful parent's sprung for a house on the beach at Cape San Blas, Fl. We had a week to soak up the sun and enjoy each other. It was great the water was so calm that kids were able to get in and enjoy it. They spent time in the pool and played hide and go seek with my neice Sami. I was so excited cause I got to see dolphins, sting rays, baby sharks, so many things in their own element. Riley and Reese even held a fish for the first time and actually loved it. The beach was great and very secluded. I would highly recommend it.

Lastly, we found a church that we love. We have started to attend Fellowship Bible Church in Roswell. We were trying to find somewhere that the kids would love to attend, and I think we found it. Especially Reese she loves her class and the teachers that are in her room. She gets excited and asks to go to church. Riley as well as shy is she is she just goes right on in and tells us all that she does and learns. It puts a smile on my face.

So that was our short summer in a nutshell. I hope for Riley's sake we spent the two months doing things that were fun and memorable for her.

Riley "Graduates"

2011-05-20T05:09:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was Riley's PreK celebration (although they still have one more week of school). She was so excited practicing her poem and what she was going to say when it was her turn to get her "degree". She woke up so early asking me is it time to go get my degree. I told her the sun wasn't even up yet to go back to bed and I would let her know when. Well needless to say I couldn't go back to sleep so I got up and about 20 min later she comes down the stairs fully dressed and so excited. I took Reese and Johnny met us at the school, so happy he got to take the day off of work for this. They recited a poem and did some songs and dances. Then it was time for the degrees. They all sat while their teacher called their names one by one they went up to the front received their certificate and stated what they liked best about PreK. I was a little worried because Riley can be really shy but she walked right up there and said "the best thing about PreK is that we get to do crafts". I was so proud of her. Every year she breaks a little more out of her shell. Then it was outside for fun and games. The kids got to decorate cookies, make sand art, jump in a bounce house, blow bubbles, spin art, and so many other things. Reese got to participate as well so it was very eventful. After the party we took Riley to Steak and Shake (her choice) for a celebratory lunch. It wasn't long in the car that they both fell asleep.

I can't believe that in two short months I will send her off to Kindergarten. I am not the type of mom who cries at this sort of event, but instead I get so excited for her. Its going to be a great adventure for her and she is so ready for it!!!

Reese is TWO!!!

2011-04-06T19:07:00.000-07:00

I can't believe that my sweet baby girl is now 2. We had a small party at my mother in law's neighborhood playground. The playground is awesome with so many structures for all age groups. There is also a sand volleyball court and a basketball court. The theme was of coarse Mickey Mouse and the kids ate pizza, played, and of coarse ate cake. Reese got a sandbox from my parent's and tons of sand toys, so we let Reese and the kids use some of the toys on the volleyball court. It was funny the kids played more in the sand then on the playground. Even thought it was super windy the party was a success.

April 5th is actually Reese's birthday falling on Tuesday this year. I didn't have to work and it was Johnny and Riley's spring break so we decided to have a family day for her. We went to Chuck E. Cheese which she loved. The girls played for over and hour winning a ton of tickets and getting candy which was all Reese really cared about. We then decided to go to California Pizza Kitchen for lunch. It was so nice to have a great long lunch. Johnny's mom and grandma actually came as well. When all was said and done Reese passed out. She slept for a couple of hours:)

Everything went well and she had such a great time. I am so blessed to have her in my life and I love her so much:)

Day of Answers!

2011-03-13T18:55:00.000-07:00

This Thursday I will be going to the doctor to hopefully get the answers that I am so in dire need for. After having Reese I have been spotting for the past two years. My original OBGYN has just changed my pill...Seven pills in two years. I have a ton of cervical issues and my doctor by using the pill was trying to "capture" my period. Um, not working sir. I finally got into to see a female OBGYN in my practice and she took the time to listen to me and to my frustration. She thinks that I might have fibroids or polyps in my uterus. They are going to do a sonogram and then blow my uterus up with water to get a good look. If there is nothing wrong she said then it might be an issue of my estrogen level being too low. It's a mystery but she said that she will do her best to figure out what is causing me to have all these problems. I am just so thankful that she is taking the time to help me out. I have been struggling for two years with this. Its not fun and I'm 31 (still young in my eyes). So, Thursday is the day and I couldn't be happier to have my mom with me to be there for me. She has been to the doctor with me the past couple of visits and has been a huge supporter of what I decide to do. I just can't wait to get in there and see what is going on:)

2011-02-05T10:50:00.000-08:00

It seems to me that everywhere I turn someone is preggers...and all due this August...I guess Thanksgiving was a busy time for a lot of people:). Its fun to see the difference in people who are pregnant depending on if its the first or third. My neighbor and friend is pregnant with her third. She has two older boys 6 and 4 and we do believe its a girl. Her main concern is to get the boys to Disney World fast because she doesn't think they will ever afford a trip once the third comes around. Funny that that is what she is thinking about. Riley's pre K teacher is also due in August. She is young only 24 but so excited. I picked Ry up from school one day and as she was putting her in the car she looked at me and smiled and said she had her first doctor's appointment and did I want to see the picture, of coarse I wanted to. She is so cute because she is bursting with excitement and I love to hear all she has to say about it. There have been so many women at the gym who have said oh that they are having a baby when checking their older ones into the child center. Just a woman today heard me say something to Reese and she told me that is what they are planning on naming their soon to be baby girl.

So, then comes the question to me "are you done or are you going to have a third?" I would like to have another one simply just to hold a baby. I miss that so much. Reese went from infant to little kid in what seemed like a nano second. Then Riley going and getting her Pre K graduation pics taken, it makes me sad. But, I am damaged goods literally and have been advised not to get pregnant. I have so many issues that my doctor is still trying to figure out what to do with me. I am about to see if there is a specialist of some sort that maybe able to help me without having to go under the knife. It stinks, but yet I am greatful for the two lives that I had a hand in bringing into this world and the pure joy that they bring. It does make me a little jealous to hear other people announce they are pregnant however, I did not enjoy being pregnant so I guess that is a good thing for me not to try. It stinks for my good friend Chelsea who does want another one because it seemed after everytime I had a kid she got pregnant and this would be after her trying for several months beforehand. I have already appologized to her!!!

I just wanted to write about this how it seems you know once you get married people ask you when you are having kids. Then you have your first one and they ask you when you are having your second its an endless cycle...I have been asked several times if I had thought about having another one and it stinks to have to tell your situation because it is literally out of my hands. I know there are several people out there that couldn't even have one so therefore I am lucky and I have started to watch how I ask the whole babies question to people I know. I just can't wait to meet these babies so that I can hold them!!!!

December

2010-12-27T09:51:00.000-08:00

This month is full of excitement. It always starts off with a bang because its Riley birthday month. She turned 5 this year on December 2nd. I took a cookie cake for her class so they could celebrate her bday with her. We had a birthday party at Miss Mamie's cupcakes on the Marietta Square. All the kids were able to come and enjoyed decorating their cupcakes and drinking apple juice out of water goblets. She insisted that all the kids wear their Sunday best:) I was so excited how it turned out. Then of coarse starts the Christmas season. Johnny and Ry for the past few years have gone tree shopping..usually the Sunday after her birthday. They went this year and picked the best tree I think we have ever had..thanks to Big John's!!! After they get the tree and Johnny hooks it into the stand its our tradition that Riley and I decorate it. Its always fun decorating a tree with a child because they want to stick all the ornaments on one branch and you can always tell how tall they are because the ornaments go as far as they can reach and below:)

Christmas was great this year because Riley understood in great detail what Christmas was truely about...not about us but about our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ!!! She was so excited about celebrating his birthday.

On Christmas Eve my mother in law came over and we started opening presents with her.The kids were so excited about all their new toys and pj's. It was a great start to what was to come. The kids spread their reindeer food over the lawn, Riley said good bye to her elf "Bonnie", and it was off to bed to await Santa's arrival.

Riley came and got me up bright and early Saturday morning and as she came down the stairs she spotted something that took her breath away. The BARBIE DREAMHOUSE!!!! She was so excited and started playing right away not even noticing what was under the tree. She said I guess Santa thought Reese and I were really good this year. Once Reese was up we started opening presents. She was so excited she got her American girl doll...the one that looks like her and some outfits for it and other toys. Reese did good as well racking up Mickey and Minnie toys...her favorite. We then as a family sang "Happy Birthday to Jesus". Oh my husband was equally good to me this year as well...he bought me the colored nook, my new running shoes (marathon training starts Jan 1) and new soccer shoes. I was surprised by the shoes since I had my last pair stollen and was happy just playing in my tennis shoes. I bought him a document camera to use in his classroom...I hope he finds it usefull.

Then it was off in the snow to my parent's house. Where the kids had even more gifts. My mom made Riley a bed for her doll and its so beautiful and very pink and girly so much like Riley herself. Reese got the dancing star Mickey and was so excited and couldn't stop dancing. We hung out there until Reese woke up from her nap and drove home admiring the snow that was falling.

It was def. a long day as the kids slept in pretty late on Sunday but as soon as everyone was awake I bundled them up and took them outside to go sleding. My neighbor and good friend has two boys and sleds so with my two girls the four of them had a blast...and even took turns going down with Reese in their laps. The day was spent playing with friends and exploring everything that they had received.

I hope that everyone had a great holiday and was able to take a break from the busy lives that we all lead and enjoy good company and reflect on how wonderful life is, and how we wouldn't be where we are today if it wasn't for him:)

Thanksgiving!!!

2010-11-30T17:29:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving this year went too fast. We spent it at my mom's house and everyone that came brought two dishes. There was just enough food for everyone to enjoy and hardly any leftovers, this is what my mom was striving for because they were leaving for Ohio the next day. My friend Kim, her husband, and four kids tagged along this year with us and Johnny's mom. It was fun just to hangout and talk while the guys watched football. I made a great Fresh Apple Cake from the Southern Living mag. It turned out so good, everyone liked it!!! I might have to make it again. Once we got home and got the kids to bed I got ready to venture out to the mall. Northpoint in Alpharetta opened at midnight and I wanted to go and get Reese some Mickey Mouse stuff from the Disney Store. She loves Mickey Mouse or Hot Dog as she calls him. I got down to the mall around 10:45 and struck up some good conversations with the people around me. Once the mall opened it was funny to watch the people run to the stores that they were hoping to find some good deals. I was in and out in little over an hour. I got everything I wanted and even strolled around the mall. Not all the stores were opened but hey it made for a good time. I then went to Toys R Us...so glad I didn't need anything from there..the line was ridiculous. So, I started back for home and then decided that I couldn't sleep so I might as well hangout with the other people in line at Target. It was 1:45 and Target didn't open until 4. When I left the weather was fine but as I waited I could feel the temp drop and drop. I wasn't dressed all that warm and it wasn't fun sitting on the cold concrete. However, this nice guys standing next to me held my spot for me so that I could go down to the QT to go to the bathroom. Upon my return I found Johnny's huge coaching jacket that basically engulfs my whole body. Well once in, I made my rounds and finished the girls shopping and a few other gifts as well. I got a ton of stuff for 125 bucks. I went home at 6 got three hours of sleep and went out again this time for a quick trip to Hallmark. Riley's bday is coming up and I try to get her bday shopping done as well. Although, this year I already bought her bday gift early as did Santa get her Christmas gift early...an Amerian girl doll....so excited to see her face. Anyways it was all good and fun but now I am paying the price because I have a persistant sore throat. The nurse at the min. clinic said its from my immune system shutting down...all I can think of is lack of sleep starting with black friday. Not sure if I would ever do that again:)

A brief update

2010-11-12T10:20:00.001-08:00

So much has happened since I last posted something. My husband celebrated his 34th bday and I my 31st. Our bdays are actually 10 days apart. Johnny is gearing up for this semester to be over at Blessed Trinity and I think even though at times its challenging he is actually really liking it there. Let's hope anyways. Riley is doing great in PreK she loves her school and her new friends that she has made. We are actually planning her 5th bday party as of right now. It is going to be tea party/cupcake party at Miss Mamie's cupcakes on the square in Marietta. She is wanting all the kids to get dressed up. So hopefully it will turn out the way that she wants it to. She finished up her soccer season and really enjoyed herself this time around she even score 5 goals this season. It was such a huge difference from last time. We were so proud of her. Reese is so funny! She is such a dare devil wanting to do whatever the big kids are doing. You should see her try to do a cartwheel. She talks up a storm and also loves to play soccer. She has a wicked left foot:) I am thinking of putting her in school next year just because she loves to go to Ry's and sits down waiting for Ms.Catherine (Riley's teacher)to start teaching. We haven't gotten off the bottle yet and I am doomed for that. She drinks juice out of a sippie cup and milk out of a bottle. I told her that we are going to donate them to Santa. Let's hope that it goes over smoothly. I have recently starting nannying again. This time though for a family that lives only like 2 min away from my neighborhood. Its part time for 2 1/2 year old twins. They are great kids and play really well with Reese. I love that they don't mind Riley and Reese being there. Even though Riley is only there for a short time. Its funny because I was referred by a friend of mine who is the children's preschool teacher. I went and met the mom and come to find out they both (husband and wife) played basketball at N. Ga. where I played soccer. We know a lot of mutual people. It goes to show how small this world really is. But, I was rewarded the job and hopefully I can do this for awhile. Well I guess that is it for an update on whats been going on with us. I know I probably missed out on a ton of stuff...this is the abridge version:)

I am just me

2010-09-20T13:13:00.000-07:00

So as of late I have gotten the road race bug. I ran the peachtree this past July and did really well finishing it in 48 min...considering the large amount of people and the fact that we started the race in the back (wave s). I had a lot of fun doing it more then I thought I would so my next attempt would be the US 10K...something I have always wanted to to since I started running in High School. My goal was to beat my Peachtree time. While talking to different people at the start of this race they basically told me I should tack on 4 min because the hills are that bad. Well I beat my Peachtree time by a whole 6 mins..and WON my age group. Next I thought well I should train for a half marathon. A full would be too hard with two kids and a husband who is rarely home but half I could do that. There is one scheduled on my birthday (oct. 3) but its downtown Atlanta and I will more than likely have to play tennis etc. So I found one in Kennesaw for Sept. 19th so close to my house with a start time of 7. Plenty of time for me to get home for my tennis match. Well, I have been running around 11.2 (long run) with Reese in the jogging stroller in around 2 hours. I was shooting for bettering that time of coarse tacking on 2 more miles. At the start of the race I got a little antsy and before I new it I was at the front of the pack with a few other runners. Pretty cool since I never have really considered myself a runner, meaning I don't have the expensive shoes, all the running garb, etc. The corase I thought was kinda hard but not manageable. I just kept telling myself you are doing great look at what you are doing. I even passed a guy at the finish and finished with a time of 1 hr. 35 min. What made me feel really good was this girl finished right in front of me and then gave me a high five, I asked her about her running if she does a lot of these etc. She told me she is a cross country coach and logs about 115 miles a week. Then she asked me I said I log about 35. She was shocked and said job well done. Once again won my age group and finshed fourth overall for the girls.

I came home and then had to play 2 1/2 hour tennis match which we won!!!

But, I guess what really bothers me is all of a sudden people are questioning my running since I have been doing well in these races. Like do I do because it keeps me skinny...do I actually like to run etc. Do I have runners bulimia???? Seriously, people...if you know anything about you you know that I have ran since high school. Was a pretty good runner then. I ran all through out college. I would go on a five mile run after soccer practice it wasn't out of the ordinary to go see me run through the streets of Dahlonega. I was approached by cross country teams of both colleges I went to but didn't accept for one reason cross country is in the same season as soccer. I do admit that I have self body image problem. I will be the first one to tell you that I do. I think I am bigger then what I am etc. But, its nothing I hide. I am the first one to admit I am obssesive compulsive about what I do but I don't harm myself or the people around me. I don't starve myself because of it I eat whatever I want and do whatever I want. I am a fishaterian eating fish maybe once a month. I haven't had a piece of meat since 1999, I don't eat anything fried and I do watch the fat intake. All apart of me being healthy not beause I am sick.

So in part,I just started running these road races for something new to do and I actually enjoy them...which I must be honest I never ran one because I didn't think I would like them and I really don't like running in a crowd. I have come to learn that I still run by myself just like I did when I was younger. I guess I have shocked some people! I wish people wouldn't speculate and if they had a question for me or about me I wish they would just ask. I will answer anything I don't hold any regreats or have any skeletons in my closet. I am just me!

The longest wait!

2010-07-14T19:51:00.000-07:00

Saturday of this past week Johnny took the girls along with his mother and younger brother to Indiana to visit family. I stayed behind to do some house work and to "rest" as Johnny put it. Johnny hasn't been alone with the girls for more then 4 hours at a time and I haven't been alone in the past 6 years. Everyone including myself was saying what in the world are you going to do with yourself. The first night (that Saturday) was tough. I cried to Johnny begging him to come home. I didn't want to be here not by myself this was our home and I wanted him and the girls with me. He told me that I needed this that we all needed this and they would be home soon to just take some time to myself. It is now Wednesday night and they are due back tomorrow evening. I can't wait to smother them all in kisses. I have been able to get a lot of stuff done and have put some on the back burner....I did rest of coarse. I love talking to Ry and hearing all the fun stuff that she has gotten to do and then of coarse talking to Reese and hearing her cry when Johnny takes the phone from her. I think when they get home I will wrap my arms around them and hold them till I can't hold them anymore.
On top of it...Johnny and I will be celebrating our 5 year wedding anniversary on Friday. I can't believe that we have been married for 5 years already. It seems like yesterday to me. He means the world to me and has given me the greatest gift in our children that I could ever want. I am so thankful that he puts up with my quirks loves me for me and doesn't waiver!

Praise God!!!

2010-05-12T17:48:00.000-07:00

For awhile Johnny has been teetering on the thought of leaving Harrison High School to come teach closer to home. Harrison isn't really that far about a 35 min drive from where we live but when there are plenty of schools near by why not??.. He had only been at Harrison for 2 years and really loved his kids and co-teachers. However, with all the things that the county had been going through with pay cuts and furlough days he was thinking more and more about leaving. The week before Spring Break he had an interview with Blessed Trinity Catholic High School which is literally 10 min from our house. He was offered the job the very next day. The pay is more he is closer to home and the class room sizes are so much smaller. Not to mention instead of his paying getting cut he will actually be getting raises. So he took the job. Upon returnig to Harrison after Spring break he told the principal that he would not be returning which he said the prinicpal wasn't too excited about because he is a really good teacher. He told him that he was still going to be secured a job if he wanted it. Well, more bad news from the county. More jobs being cut....Johnny was called into the principal's office today and was told even though they knew he was leaving the county was letting him out of his contract...meaning jobless. Not only him but several teachers before and after him are getting let go with no job. I couldn't believe it. It gave me chills. So thankful God is on our side and helped him get the interview and job at Blessed Trinity. All you have to do is believe:)

My sweet one year old!!!

2010-04-06T05:25:00.001-07:00

This past Saturday April 3rd we celebrated Reese's first bday party. It was cupcake themed and my Mother in Law hosted the party at her new house. She has a great backyard and the older kids were able to run around and enjoy the great spring weather. The food consisted of fried chicken, beans, mac and cheese, broc casserole, pot salad, and fruit. I was so very blessed that my friend Kim was willing and able to help provide some of the food. My parent's also helped. I got everything set up the Friday before so that all I had to do was set out the food and pick up the cake. We had a cupcake pinata that I had filled for the older kids and made goodie bags. They seemed to have a lots of fun. For the cake I went to Super Target and did the cupcake pull apart cake it was in the shape of a giant cupcake in bright pink and purple. If you have seen the pictures on facebook you know she loved it. I tell you though it was a bit stressful making sure that all the little details were finished and making sure that I had enough of everything for everyone. I def. lost several hours of sleep over this party. Not to mention since it is spring my allergies decided to act up and not feeling the greatest sucks when trying to do a bday party.

Monday the 5th was her actual bday and it was funny. When Riley woke up she asked when we were going to go to Gramie's house so we eat cupcakes again since it was Reese's actual bday. I said oh we already did that and I don't think I can do that again for a while. Chuck E. Cheese might have to be called upon to do it next year!!!

They are on loan!

2010-02-28T13:47:00.000-08:00

Yesterday was a tearful day for both Johnny and I. We spent the afternoon at St. Peter Chanel Catholic Church in Roswell honoring the life of Miss Merrill King. She passed away from complications due to Cancer earlier in the week. She had been batteling this disease for the past 6 years. Johnny and I met Merrill when she was 11and in remission. We coached her a few seasons in soccer and what a remarkable young lady she was. Nothing could get her down she was a ray of sunshine. The mass was beautiful and packed with people who loved this child. Johnny and I were both doing well keeping it together until her older sister (who isn't that much older then her) gave the Eulogy. That is when we were both blowing snot bubbles out of our noses. After the mass they had a luncheon at the hall in the church where they had a slide show of pictures set up to music. Again when the baby pictures appeared nothing but tears from me. It hit home really hard for me. Made me want to wrap my arms around my own two girls and never let go. Merrill also has a little brother and the three of them where so close. I had told Johnny that I hope Reese and Riley are like that. After the slideshow was over Johnny and I talked to a ton of people that we haven't see for awhile. We coached several of the girls that were friends and classmates of Merrill and of coarse they were there along with their parents. I told Johnny that before we left I wanted to talk to Merrill's mom whose name happens to be Tracy as well. We were there for a long time the crowd had shrunk and I made my way towards Mrs. King. I hugged her and told her that it was so beautiful. She thanked us both for coming that playing soccer under us was one of Merrill's favorite things and she still talked about frequently. We talked about Riley and Reese because she didn't know we had another baby. She looked at me and said love those kids as much as you can because they are just on loan. Such strong words from such a strong woman!!!

Riley is FOUR!!!

2009-12-07T12:03:00.000-08:00

My little baby turned four on December 2nd. I can't believe it how fast time goes. I look at her and remember when my water broke, waking Johnny up at four in the morning scared to death about c-sections and all that entails becoming a first time mommy. But, now I see how smart, beautiful, and joy she is and it makes me smile. She went from a newborn to a little girl a baby to a girl who is starting to read.

For her birthday she decided to have a High School Musical party at the gymnastics arena where she currently takes gymnastics. She wore her halloween costume (high school musical cheerleader),had all the decorations as High School Musical, and the cake from Target was awesome. We had 15 kids there and they all seemed to have a blast. I will tell you that I am so glad that birthdays only come once a year. They can be very tiring especially when people rsvp at the last min.

Reese also had a birthday on the day of Riley's party. She turned 8 months old. She now has 4 teeth and is working on some more. She still isn't really crawling really well she does the army crawl but she gets around. The kid loves to stand wherever she is. She will just stand holding onto something for the longest time. If you pull her away boy she will let you know...put her back!!! The best is that Reese now says ma ma. I will say it and she mimics me and smiles. I love it.

Now that we have a computer fixed thanks to my very smart husband I will hopefully get some pictures posted...as I haven't in a long time.

So little time

2009-11-13T17:43:00.001-08:00

Do you ever feel like you don't have enough time in the day to get all of the stuff done that you need to do? Sometimes I wish that there were more of me especially now that I have two children. It so hard to keep track of everyone's schedules and make sure that I am where I am suppose to be at the right time. I am a very planned person and if it weren't for the weekly calendar posted on the fridge I would be so lost. Although, my husband tends to throw curve balls at me all the time that keep him from being home for hours on end and leaving me to rework the schedule that I have painstakingly put together. I am notorious for wearing myself out. I run too much, I workout too much, I play too much tennis, I don't get enough sleep, I don't eat enough....and on top of all this I am a mom first and foremost 23/7 and wouldn't change it for the world. I do get flustered when I am trying to bathe Riley and Reese is sitting on the floor crying because she wants her mommy to hold her. Or I am trying to get lunch togeter and Reese has just puked all over me. I know you mom's out there have lived through all of this. I just want to bury my head and cry sometimes. It can be overwhelming but then I realize this is the path that I am suppose to be on. My kids are both so bright and healthy. They are well taken care of and are happy. That is what is most important, not the lack of sleep or the puke on my shoes...its the smiles on those two beautiful faces (that look like their mommy).

Turning 30.

2009-10-06T18:13:00.000-07:00

I hit a major milestone on Oct, 3rd. I turned the big 3..0. I wasn't in denial, I wasn't upset, it was just weird. When Johnny and I started dating I was 23 and he was 26. I made fun of him for being so closed to 30 and here I was turning 30. The day started off not so great. The night before I was from 2:30 until 5:30 and then up again with the girls at 7:30. Johnny had told me I could sleep in but he had played poker that night and he was up late the night before and had to be in Paulding County for a soccer game which is not close to where we live. I got up and got the girls ready for the day. I took Ry to her soccer game which was a lot of fun. I promised her if she touched the ball just once I would buy her some candy corn. Not only did she touch the ball she actually dribbled a few times. This is a huge difference from the other weeks. I think she is actually starting to like soccer. Her friend Sam scored a goal and it was fantastic. We left right away after the game and bought some candy corn. At home I played with the girls outside while Johnny rested, then it was my turn to rest. I slept so hard even though it was only for a bit. Just enough. Then it was time to get ready. We were having a get together at Pure which is a mexican resturant in downtown Woodstock (there is also one in Alpharetta). We got there a little early along with my mom and dad. They have a fantastic outside patio with couches and a nice bar. We ate chips and salsa and had a few drinks. Some of my friends and their spouses came out as well and had a great time at dinner (recommend the fish tacos) then we ventured back to the neighborhood to a neighbor's house. We had a fantastic time and I have yet to feel any different at 20 then I have ever before. I actually feel like an adult. For my present I was told to go shopping. I bought a few things but not done yet :). My goal is to wear clothes that actually fit me I tend to buy things a little too big just because I have a horrible body image. But, on my birthday day dinner I looked cute or at least I thought I did. I can't wait to finish my shopping. Hope that everyone who is about turn 30 has a blast just like I did.

The wonders of a four month old!!

2009-08-09T18:37:00.000-07:00

Reese just turned for months old last Wed. I couldn't believe it. Then this past saturday she rolled over all the way for the first time. She had been trying and trying just getting stuck on her arm being tucked under her. Then finally she rolled and got her arm unstuck. I was so proud I clapped for her and she looked up at me like did I do something? I almost cried. Now it starts. She is going to start scooting and then crawling. She isn't an infant any more a full fledge baby. She is fantastic!!! Tomorrow we embark on a new doctor for her. She has to see a pediatric opthomologist. The pediatrician thinks that she may have a bit of a lazy eye. Looking at her I don't see anything wrong, but if he does then I am going to do as he says. I would go all over creation if they told me to because it would keep my baby healthy. I hope every parent out there would. My kids mean so much to me and I am very lucky and I pinch myself because I don't know where in my life I would be if I didn't have them.

Along with this Johnny starts another school year tomorrow at Harrison. He is very excited and is ready to start. Ry doesn't start until the 17th, but we have a meet an greet tomorrow and then open house later in the week. I'm so excited for her she will be going four days a week three hours at a time. Then I will be watching a classmate of hers for two of those days, and taking both girls to gymnastics. It will be good for her to have a playmate and the girls seem to get along great.

Now all we need is fall weather:)

4 years!!

2009-07-17T09:34:00.000-07:00

Johnny and I celebrated our four year wedding anniversary yesterday. We decided to go to Bluepointe for sushi. I had never had sushi and was so excited. Their sushi was awesome to say the least, and I handled chop sticks. We had a california roll, super crunch, and a spider roll. I had planned on only sushi but Johnny insisted that I get an entre. I orderd Phad Thia noodles which they told me was spicey but for me they would make it mild. Yeah right! My mouth was on fire. I tried everything to cool it down but it wasn't happening. I told Johnny that I just couldn't do it, I couldn't eat it. The waitress was great she said "Don't eat what you can't" and she brought me the spider sushi roll which I loved. Oh, if you go there try there Blutinis. They are blueberry and blackberry martinis they are soooo good. I am not much of a drinker only once in a blue moon or on special occasions like this one so when I say something is good you beter believe it. After dinner we went to downtown Roswell they were having a festival type event, Alive After Five. All the shops were open and there were drinks and food. People were everywhere we couldn't believe how crowded it was. It was fun just to walk around and go into the shops. We even just sat on a park bench and people watched. We left and came home and played scrabble our favorite game to play against each other. I love it because I usually win and he has his masters in english education...go figure. It was a great night just to go out and have a date. We hadn't been on a date since Valentine's Day so it ment a lot.

Every time we have an anniversary I remeber our wedding day, how all the events went down, and the stress of it all. My hair was the biggest issue the girl didn't do it right and my bridesmaids especially Chelsea and Kristen came to the rescue and fixed it. Natalie standing up for me and when my mom and I got into a huge arguement. The rain right before I was suppose to walk outside and see Johnny standing under the gazebo. Instead we got married inside where we were suppose to have our reception. At least it wasn't hot in there. In all it was one of the best days of my life and I am so greatful to have the memories and celebrate with every passing year.

2009-06-21T17:35:00.001-07:00

My dad!!!

2009-06-21T17:18:00.000-07:00

Two summers ago I got a phone call from dad, a phone call I will never forget. He said that he had some funny feelings in his arm and he had gone to the doctor who then sent him to a neurologist. The news wasn't good. They told him that he had Parkinsons Disease. The first thing out of his mouth was that it wasn't genetic and that I shouldn't worry about getting it. I didn't care about that. I wanted to take it away so that he wouldn't have it knowing that there wasn't a cure. He had a slight tremor in his arm and wouldn't really notice it unless he was stressed. He would actually would hold his arm down so that people wouldn't notice. Two years later it has gotten progressively worse. His arm now shakes and he can't hold it down and he says that he can feel it slightly in his leg to the point that his calf hurts. However, you can't see it in his leg. This diesease has so many facets to it its unreal. The doctors said that he could have gotten it because he grew up on a farm and drank well water. If only he hadn't. The good thing is his spirit. My father has the best humor and spirit of anyone I know. He is very very laid back and lets life come at him as is. He isn't the type to say woo is me and just keeps going. He in fact is still working and is going to continue until he is unable to maintain his balance and so forth. I love watching him with my kids the girls just love him so much. My wish would be that there would be a cure for this before he gets really bad so that holding my baby wouldn't be an issue for him. Right now he is cautious but once he gets comfortable he holds and you know she just loves him. I love him as well and hope that there will be many more father's days ahead for him.

Summer time!!!!

2009-05-31T19:28:00.000-07:00

Thursday was Rileys last day of preschool for the year. SAD!!! Her class had a great party beach themed and very fancy. The kids left with so many goodies it was sick. When I got home I literally had to make two trips to the car to carrying everything in. For the party I said that I would make cookies. I would like to share my Marth Stewart momment with everyone. I asked Riley what kind of cookies she would like mommy to make she said something with m-n-m's basically her favorite candy. So, I thought it would be neat to make the cookies and spell the kids name in the candy. Great idea until I started making them. Riley has some really long names in her class so needless to say some of the cookies where HUGE and I mean HUGE. Hello one of the names is Baileigh Jo. They were so big that when Johnny came home from school that day he laughed at me yes laughed at me. I was so upset because they took me so long to make. I then wrapped them in plastic wrap and put name tags on that I had made off of clip art (cute little fish bowls since they were the goldfish class). I was scared to take them to the party because I didn't want the parent's to laugh at them. The kids however, loved them. They thought they were neat especially because they had their names on them. One little boy ran up and hugged my leg and told me thank you, which made me feel ten times better. Even the parent's loved them. I will never make them again. Next time I will just use their first initial. All that matters is that the kids liked them and the party was great.

Friday was Johnny's first official day of summer. It was great we went out to the neighborhood pool and Ry had a blast. She is really loving the fact that her daddy is home. He hung to moon in her eyes and is totally her hero. I love the fact that he takes such an interest in her life. She also had her last dance lesson that day for the summer and she actually jumped up and down when he walked through the door. It was such and AWE momment.

We are trying to plan for a trip to Florida and have been offered the use of a FREE stuido apartment right on the beach (New Smyrna). It is super close to my brother and sister and law and I think it would be great for us to get away as a family. We weren't able to go anywhere last summer because Johnny was finishing up getting his masters at KSU and then was pressed to find a job, plus I also found out I was preggers then. Johnny however, thinks it won't be a vacation because of the baby. He thinks that she is too young. I think this is the time we should go she eats, sleeps, and poops. She does have her fussy time but it only last no longer then an hour and its usually because she is overly tired. Mommy likes to keep her outside and in the fresh air and sometimes she has a hard time taking a decent nap. I think we should go its FREE!!! We would be insane to pass it up.

That is about it for now. Reese is almost two months old (this friday) and is doing great. I am doing well as is the rest of the fam. and will post more as the summer goes forward. I am so excited for the warm weather and what this summer is going to bring.

Over a month old!!!

2009-05-12T11:30:00.000-07:00

As of last tuesday Reese was a month old. I can't believe how time flies. We are trying to get her used to sleeping her crib. There is improvement everyday with that. Can't wait until she sleeps through the night. I know its early for that but a girl can wish.

For mother's day Johnny gave me a kid free weekend. I was so excited I got to go off and do whatever I wanted. I went to the gym and played cardio tennis. I also got to go to the outlet mall with my mom. We were there forever but it was nice getting to go into any store I wanted and not listening to whinning. Ry usually is a great shopping partner but sometimes its rough. The next day Sunday I went running on the trails that are near my home and then took Ry with me to the Avenue. That was fun until my husband called reminding me that we were suppose to eat dinner in 15 min at his mom's house. I dropped everything I was doing and flew over there for a great dinner. So there was my mother's day weekend. It was so nice.

I also had my post partum appointment today. I am done having kids physically (Johhny and I have talked about adopting in the near future)and wanted to know about my options for birth control. Well the doctor first said we have to check your cervix by dialation to see if we can even insert an iud or the coils. Let me tell you people that was not fun. I think that was the first time I ever said ouch several times at the OBGYN. When he said slight pinch and cramp that is what I thought it would be. WRONG!!! It hurt for another 30 min after the fact. Well I have a condition called cervical stenosus or something rather, I can't spell those medical terms. Which simply means my cervix has narrowed and they wouldn't be able to insert any form of birth control. So back on the pill I go. I must say I was some what disappointed but oh well. It is what it is.

2009-04-29T20:38:00.000-07:00

I haven't written in a while and so now is the time to update! Reese is starting to fill out and not look like a new born so much. I can't believe that she will almost be a month old in a few days. I broke down and bought her the dreaded pacifier the other day. I have issues with them. I can't stand when I see a four year old with one in his mouth talking to his mother. How in the world can you understand him with that thing in his mouth. Riley never used one. She self soothed by sucking her thumb which she broke herself of. But, Reese is different just like every other child and needed something. I noticed this when I took her to pick Ry up from school. I had fed, burped multiple times, and changed her before we went. As soon as I got to the school which is ten min from my house she started to scream. I put my pinkie in her mouth and she stopped instantly. Later on that night I left her with Johnny to go take a class at the gym and when I got home he said that when she got fussy she would suck on his hand. With Ry in toe we went to get the paci. I let Ry pick them out and when we got home we gave them to her and you could tell she was so happy to have something. I did tell Johnny though that I would only use them for a few months. I wasn't going to let it get out of control. As of right now they seem to help so that is what is important. Other than that things are good. I am still not sleeping a whole lot. I did stop breast feeding after three weeks because she is a snacker and would be up every hour on the hour to eat. I couldn't take it anymore so I decided to quit. With the formula she sleeps a good three to four hours. I can't complain its pretty good. She sometimes though is up more at night then during the day like a lot of newborns go through getting the days and nights mixed up. She will sort it out. I already started a bed time routine with her so we will see how that goes. I am just so thankful that she is here and that she is healthy and the most beautiful baby that I have seen:)

2009-04-15T14:29:00.001-07:00

Almost 2 weeks!

2009-04-15T14:15:00.000-07:00

Time flies by after you have a child. Reese is already almost two weeks old. Its strange to think about how long you actually carry something with you and in a blink of an eye they are here and growing so fast. I look at her every day in amazement and then I look at Riley who was just that small yesterday or so it seems and now she is three years old, it just kills me. This week has been a little different since Johnny started back at work. I have handled everything so well. It has been easier this time around then with the first. I don't mind as much getting up in the middle of the night as much as I did with Riley. I actually tend to enjoy it a little bit. I do admit the other night though I don't know if I even slept and don't ask me about Reese because I don't know if she did either. It was a blur. Last night though I was smart skipped the gym and went to bed. It was the best sleep ever. I will post some of the pictures that we have taken of Reese since her arrival. Everyone that sees her says she looks like Johnny more. He finally has his claim to fame since Riley favors me more. Reese is fair and has strawberry blond hair like her dad. Her eyes are even not as dark as Riley's. I know its really early to tell but I am excited that she resembles her daddy. Anyway, you guys can form your own oppinion on that one.

Reese Marie Jackson is here!!!!

2009-04-07T03:51:00.000-07:00

So, she is here our little bundle of joy Reese Marie. I wanted to have her over spring break and I truly got my wish. This past Friday evening I felt like I was starting to have a few contractions. Nothing huge just a few. I was also sick and didn't know that if all the coughing was why my stomach was hurting. I contemplated calling the doctor and didn't. The next day Saturday Riley got invited to a friends birthday party over by my parent's house. I was still not feeling good and decided to not to go with Johnny to his step-sister's dinner rehersal for her wedding. Instead after the birthday party I went to my parent's house to have Riley play with my niece and I could relax a little bit. While I was there I started to have contractions and by the advice from my mother I called the doctor. The mid-wife called me back (which I didn't really care for since I never deal with mid wives) and told me to drink two big glasses of water, lay down for a couple of hours, and if they subside then don't call back but if they are still strong then call back because they can't do a c-section unless you are 4 to 5 cent. dialated. Which is a bunch of crock.....because there are several people who don't even dialate and that is why they have to have a c-section. But, regardless I did as she instructed. I was still having them but was kinda scared to call back because I had a feeling that they were just going to send me home.

But, the mid wife told me to come on in and they would check me. When I got here intially my cervix was not fully closed but was a little funky. The nurse could get her fingers in there but I still closed a good bit. They hooked me up to the fetal monitor and told me that as long as I was still contracting then there would be a good possibility of having her. Two hours later they came and did a sonogram to make sure she hadn't turned because her they found her heart beat lower then you would a breach baby but she was still breached and they checked my cervix. Which was now 2 1/2 to 3 cent dialated and I was 80 percent effaced. They called the doctor on call and then came back and told me that I would be having her after mid night because I had eaten dinner.

From seven thirty until twelve twenty I sat in a room and just had a ton of contractions and coughing fits. I was scared of having a c-section while being sick but she was coming and there was no stopping her. They wheeled me back and gave me a spinal block which numbed my whole body, brought Johnny back and in ten min she was here, beautiful as ever. The doctor who by the way had no bed side manor what so ever had told my mom or mom overheard her say that it was a super easy c-section. It was she didn't use staples like I had with Riley which I hated. She used disovable sutchers which were easier for me to stand and walk with.

The only thing I am having problems with now is the coughing. I don't do it as much but when I have to it hurts pretty bad. They have me on Robotessin or however you spell it. It seems to help and I am slowly getting better. I only cough maybe a few times a day but believe me that is enough.

Reese is doing great her white blood cell count was a little high so they put her on a iv with and antibiotic to see if that would level it out, and it has worked. She is so laid back and pretty much eat, sleeps, and poop. She looks a lot like her big sister but fairer an her hair is a little strawberry blond thanks to her father. Perfect!!!!

We should be going home today if everything works as it should.

Reese Marie Jackson April 5, 2009 6lbs 13 oz. 18 1/4 inch.

2009-04-02T17:04:00.000-07:00

Well, I went to the doctor this past Monday. He asked me if I still wanted to have a "trial of labor", I said yes unless she was head up. I then asked if he could tell me and he said for sure. He then checked my cervix and looked a little confused. He then put his hands on my belly and said that he thought she was head up. They then brought the sonogram machine in and lubed me up. Before I knew it I was staring at her little face looking right at me. He then said that he would have to wait for the hospital to send out their schedule before he could schedule my c-section. My doctor was really sympathetic and sweet about it because he knew that I wanted to try. But, at this point I am fine with it. I have heard from several different people that the second c-section is so much easier then the first, and i didn't have a hard time at all with the first. I am just glad that I know where she is at and the lump that I feel is actually her head. The doctor said that he would try to schedule my c-section closer to my due date which is April 23 but that history could repeat it self with her coming early like Riley (who was 2 1/2 weeks early).

Since that day I was starting to get congested and have gotten progressively worse as the week has wore on. I even have an ear ache from my sinus drainage which I haven't had one in forever. Being sick is no fun especially when you are preggers and all you can do is take Sudafed and hope and pray that it ends soon. By now I am doing better but my stomach hurts from coughing so much but Reese is a trooper and is moving about to let me know that she is ok. The one good think about being sick is that I haven't been going to the gym. I have taken three whole days off which is huge for me., since I am there usually every day. At least for now I don't have Johnny telling me that I need to take it easy because I am!!!!!

Well, hopefully baby Reese will make her appearance soon and I will keep everyone posted as when she does!

Every Week!!!

2009-03-27T17:14:00.000-07:00

I haven't updated in a few so I should go ahead and tell whats going on. Johnny is more mobile walking around the house without crutches and uses only one while he is at school. He is now able to go swimming which is awesome. I went to the doctor and they didn't tell me much. I go back on March 30 and hopefully they will tell me what position Reese is in. I try to feel but all I feel are lumps and everything is so hard so I am not sure what is going on. I did however, get the nursery completed. I had the crib for awhile but after the store told me that the dresser I originally purchased was on back order until April 27 I decided to change my order. Luckily, the store complied since the were the ones that told me it only took 3 to 4 weeks to get. Of coarse when my parents came to carry the thing upstairs my mom noticed a huge scratch on it. The store did send someone to fix it and the dresser is full and everything looks good. Riley is I think excited to see her baby sister. Although, she insists that she is not sharing any of her toys. I think she has that intuition that the baby is coming. She has been sort of a pill and gets upset and clings to me. Its going to be a transition for all of us. Let's pray that it will be easy. I will update more as soon as I get back from the doc. I can't wait. If I could have gone the next day you bet your butt I would have been there with bells on!!!!

A better week!

2009-02-27T05:30:00.000-08:00

After a stressful week ending with Johnny going to the hospital because his blood pressure was dangerously high this week has been very mellow. Which I am very greatful. I went to the doc on Monday and they did a non stress test because during the stressful week I hardly felt baby Reese move. But, it came back fine and she is doing well. The nurse said that it may had to do with stress and that I just wasn't paying attention. Johnny is doing much better and is able to more and more on his own everyday. I am still having to get up with him and help him get dressed, make his lunch, breakfest, and out of the door. He did call me after his physical therapy today and said that he can put more weight on his foot. He was really excited as was I. Just a quick note!!!!

A stressful week!

2009-02-21T04:52:00.000-08:00

Well Johnny finally had his surgery. We got up really early last Monday and I drove Johnny to Harrison so he could get some final work done and then we drove down to Emory Sports Medicine where he was to have his surgery. They took him back at 10:30 for pre op. They told me that it would take a total of 2 hours starting around 12. I left him with a kiss and had to go get some lunch. I came back thinking that it would soon be over but 3:30 rolled around and the lady at the front desk told me he was still in surgery. I couldn't believe it I was so tired and there were only three magazines in the whole place. I think I got my fill of CNN for a life time. Finally they told me that he was out and that I would be able to go back in few. When I did he was in a lot of pain. The doc. said his knee was a mess. They were able to repair his menscus with a few stitches and that is why it took longer then they thought because it was totally flipped forward. He also started to have a bit of bone damage. So needless to say it was bad. But around 5 we finally left for the the trek home. I set him up a bed in the living room and got him situated thank goodness for percocet. My mother in law also brought over a twin mattress for him to use if need be. Riley uses it more to practice her gymnastics!

Tuesday was a rough day for me. I went to the gym and then hurried back home to check on Johnny. I couldn't leave him for long lengths of time because he would need help getting to the bathroom, etc. At the same time Riley decided to drag out every toy imaginable from the front closet into the foyer. Everytime I went to clean it up Johnny would call for me to help him. I started to hate my name Traci. Couldn't be it Helen or something for a few min. I went to go sit in my bathroom just for a few min to take a break I was starting to get exhausted. It doesn't help that I am about to pop out another kid.

Wed. was a little better so I guess. I had to get up super early in the morning get Riley up dressed, breakfest and all that jazz. Then I had to do the same for Johnny plus myself. All of us got in the car and off we went down back to Emory so they could check out his knee. They said that it looks great and everything should start to heal really well. He starts to do physical therapy next week and needed to start putting weight on it. They still didn't want him to shower until Friday. I washed him a little bit but not too much.

Thursday was when everything started to really wear me down. Johnny decided he wanted to get of the house for a bit to go to Riley's gymnastics class with us. He hadn't been off of the couch in a while and I agreed it would be good for him. I got his clothes changed in into the car. While we were there I triped over his crutches while carrying Riley and fell. I hit my head up against the wall and landed straight on my knee cap. I thought I was going to die it hurt so bad not only that but I was worried about Reese that she was ok. I held back the tears until we got into the car and then bawled my eyes out because it hurt it so bad. Luckily Riley decided she wanted a nap so when we got home I iced my knee and cried myself to sleep. Needless to say it wasn't as bad as I thought just a bad bruise.

Friday...everything is getting easier. It mainly has been rough because of being pregnant. But, he was able to get up the stairs even though I had to help wash him. I drove to Canton twice in order to get him a handicapped parking pass so now he can start to attempt to drive. I am starting to get a cold which is probably just because I am worn out but once again if maybe I would stop going to the gym and take a breather it would be ok. But, that isn't my mind set it never has been. We went to Harrison last night so he could coach the jv soccer team. It was sooo cold but luckily being the coach's wife I got to sit in the press box with Ry, but forgot that I had to carry the sleeping three year old down the bleachers and back to the car which I was reminded by my mother that I should not be doing. But, who else is going to do it.

Hopefully, as Johnny regains strength it will get easier. I go to the doctor this coming Monday for my 32 week check up and I am hoping that everything is ok. I feel bad because with everything that has been going on I feel as if I have neglected Reese. I try to talk to her as much as I can but sometime I forget until I feel her move then I am reminded of her.

Sorry about the long post it has just been a stressful week!

Down to two weeks!!!

2009-02-10T17:07:00.001-08:00

I went to the doc yesterday and I am now down to going every two weeks. They haven't checked me yet to see if she is head down or not. I am thinking it maybe my next appointment because if she is not and they think she isn't going to turn then I am going to schedule my c-section. Baby Reese is going strong and has a great heartbeat. Riley got to hear it for the first time and got really excited she can't wait for her baby sister to come out. I also really appreciate all the comments from people stating how small I am. It makes me feel great about the way I have taken care of myself. I only hope and pray that I can have a V-Bac. I really really want to try. Even though I hear from other people all the time that I am nuts for wanting to go through it all but I honestly feel if I can that I should give it a try. I experienced labor with Riley and experienced more pain playing soccer then I did with her labor.

Not only being pregnant, but I am also dealing with Johnny and his knee. He is gearing up for surgery for next Monday. If all goes well then hopefully he will be up and back to normal in no time. We should see:)

The knee saga continues!

2009-01-29T13:51:00.000-08:00

Johnny got his mri results back today and they confirmed that he did more damage. He tore his menescus or however you spell it. The doctor told him that he can't fix it that he can only shave it done. This won't hurt his recovery or mobility which is good. The bad thing is it may cause artheritis sooner in his knee because there is less cushion there. He is on board for surgery on Feb. 16th and no sooner because the doctor can't do it any sooner. After the surgery he will then have to be on crutches for 4 to 6 weeks before recovery starts. That probably means that he will be on crutches when the baby is born. At this point I am just happy that he is going through with the surgery and I am trying to be as supportive as I can. He is really upset at the first doctor that he saw because the doctor told him that he can't do anymore damage to his knee since he tore his acl. That is a bunch of hooey since there is so much that goes on in your knees. As for me and the baby she is doing great as far as I know. I go the doctor on the 9th and will know more then. I am finally sticking good out there. A lot of people told me that I finally have popped out there. I am getting ready for her to come and she couldn't come soon enough. Riley is getting ready too she is so excited to be a big sister. She is noticing babies more and more and wants to hold them and feed them. That is all for now!

Update

2009-01-18T08:51:00.000-08:00

I am so thankful to say that Johnny finally went to the doctor. This doctor is located near Emory can came highly recommended. I was so excited that he actually went. The doctor now thinks that he has torn more than his acl and will have to go in for another mri later on this week. If the swelling goes down and they get the mri results he may go in as soon as Feb. 6th for the surgery. The sooner the better as its getting closer and closer to when baby Reese will make her appearance. We are all praying that the can get it done then. If not he has two other dates the later being March 6th. I will keep an update going on this as this is so important to all of us.

The holidays

2009-01-01T13:21:00.000-08:00

Oh my gosh. Christmas this year was crazy with all the toys, toys, and more toys. It really looked like Santa puked on our house. Ry was just so happy with everything that she got and I do believe that she appreciated all of it. We had about three days of opening presents which to me was just exhausting. The opening went on right up until New Years Eve when Johnny's dad and his girlfriend left our home and headed back to Indiana. We spent New Years Eve just hanging out the two of us. I watched the locator on WE network and bawled my eyes out for two straight hours. I tried to shut it off but this guy just is so warm hearted and really wants to reconnect these loved ones. Oh you should watch it if you want to cry. I was able to get my New Years kiss and then off to bed. Now we have Johnny's older brother and his wife and two dogs to go and visit. After taking down all the Christmas decor we are heading over his mom's house for dinner.

I am starting to have really bad acid reflux which probably means that Reese has hair. I suffered through this with Ry when I was preggers with her. It just comes with the territory. I try not to eat chocolate but come on I am preggers and its just so good. But, thank you to saltines and sprite my two new best friends. I have my glucose tolerance test on Friday which I am not looking forward to but know that I only have to suffer for a little while. Then its my first doubles tennis match of the season on Sunday. I played the other night and did really well. I think Reese maybe a tennis player and Ry a soccer player. That would be sooo cool. But, anyway once I get a chance to look through the camera hopefully I will be able to post some holiday pictures.

2008-12-23T10:30:00.000-08:00

2008-12-23T10:29:00.002-08:00

2008-12-23T10:29:00.001-08:00

2008-12-23T10:27:00.000-08:00

Christmas part 1

2008-12-23T10:18:00.001-08:00

This year we are having family galore come to us for the holidays which I am totally excited about out. Christmas started this past Sunday we went to church at Northpoint Community where Riley celebrated Jesus's birthday. She then played with her new toy Barbie make up that a friend gave her. Not only did she put the make up on herself but she decided that daddy needed a make over as well. He was such a trooper. Thank goodness the stuff comes off easily. We had another doctor's visit today and everything is good as gold. We are still considering a VBAC or another c-section. I am a good candidate for a VBAC and with the doctors on board we are going to watch how things progress. My blood pressure is really really good and Johnny said that I am going to live forever:). Tomorrow we are going to my parent's house for Christmas eve and then on Christmas day we will do our Christmas and then off to Johnny's mom's house for the rest of the day. Riley's elf Bonnie came down from the North Pole last night for a visit and already put some stocking stuffers in her stocking from Santa. She is really excited to see what Santa is bringing her for under the tree. Her elf would have made the trip earlier but mommy couldn't find her. Then on Friday Johnny's dad and his girlfriend will be here for a few days and then while they are here Johnny's older brother and wife will be visiting as well. We will be very busy for the next few days. Hopefully, I will be able to update this blog as the holidays progress and I will try to post some pictures. Here are some pictures of Riley and Johnny in the make up. I hope that everyone has a safe and blessed Holiday.

Riley's school christmas pagent

2008-12-18T10:24:00.000-08:00

Riley attends First Baptist Church Woodstock's wee school and is in their young three's program. This is her first experience with school and has loved it since she started. Today was the school's Christmas program. As soon as I figure out how to post the video I will. Her class joined with another and together they sang three songs. Riley was a tummy ache pretty much all day yesterday, didn't eat much, but still played like a champ. Today she woke up and said she felt fine. I was still kinda worried. She really does not due well preforming in front of other's. Her last ballet class was a parent's watch class and she made us go outside and watch from outside. I told her that I needed to video tape it because her daddy had to be at school due to finals and couldn't attend but that he wants to see her. She agreed. Once the program started she didn't get into the singing like some of the other kids did. She did however, start to get into the very last song which was fine. The whole experience was a cute one and I am so proud of her. She did say she was very nervous because both grammie's were there to watch.

Once we got back to the classroom we had a Christmas party full of lots of good things to eat. The kids got to eat first and Ry went to town. I was shocked because it was still morning and she hasn't been a big eater lately. Then all of a sudden she wanted to me to hold her, I put her down and she looked at me funny. I asked her if she was going to throw up and another mother heard me and dragged the trash can to her but it was too late. She threw up! Then she did it again but luckily in the trash can this time. I asked her assistant teacher if it was ok if I ran out to the car because I did have a change of clothes for her and she said that was fine. I came back and Ry obviously felt better because she asked for a cup cake. NO WAY!!!! I asked the other mother's if it was ok if we stayed because she seemed fine and didn't want to go. They were fine with so Ry got to open her cool new books and watch her teachers open their presents from her as well.

The rest of the day is going to be spent a little low key, even though we do have to go to work it will be movie day.

2008-12-14T14:30:00.000-08:00

So the pictures that were taken at Ry's third birthday party weren't the best. I was too busy talking and making sure everything was were it should have been (except the darn lighter for the cake), and Johnny was too busy throwing himself into the foam pit. It seemed to me that he had more fun then Ry. My mom took the best and I don't have them so I am not going to post them. They just aren't worth it. Tomorrow starts my last week of work and I am actually looking forward to it. I have had a sinus infection for the longest time and I will welcome the break with open arms. I had a funny dream last night that was so weird. It was one of those pregnancy dreams that is just so odd. Like with Riley I had one that she popped out with full teeth and everything asking me to put her back in. This one was a little stranger. I could see Reese's face protruding through my stomach clear as day. I ran to Johnny to show him and the next thing I new I was holding her and she had a full head of black hair asking Johnny to cut the cord. Crazy!!!!! Let's just say I had a hard time going back to sleep after that one.

Riley's Birthday Party

2008-12-07T06:28:00.000-08:00

This year Riley decided that she wanted a gymnastics party. I researched local gymnastic places and found a very very reasonable one right down the road GA Allstar Gymnastics. She also wanted to invite all her classmates from FBCW. With that we were only going to invite a few others because I didn't want to break the bank on a third birthday party. Luckily they had a time slot and her party was set for Saturday December 6th from 2-3:30. The gym was awesome. The kids got to to gymnastics for an hour, jumping in the foam pit, jumping on the trampoline, swinging from this rope thingy, playing with a parachute, and a few other activities. We then had cake and opened presents. The cake was great it was red and had a gymnast on the balance beam. This went along with all the red things we decorated in the party room. Yes, Riley's favorite color is red. She got a ton of presents from her friends all the Barbie dolls and princess dolls, and of coarse play dough. The kids got to take home water bottles which I filled with goodies and then it was time to go home. Ry has sorta quit taking naps except for yesterday she passed right out. Johnny had to leave early from the party because he girls had a soccer game at the Polo fields so a great thank you to my mom and Chelsea for passing out juice boxes and cutting the cake. Riley is already planning her birthday next year she wants a High School Musical Party. That will just have to wait until next year. I will post some pictures as soon as I get my camera back from the gymnastics place. In all that went on I left my camera there. Hey, I pregnant and have a terrible cold. Give a girl a break:)

Thanksgiving

2008-12-01T11:04:00.000-08:00

Well Thanksgiving is over with. We had a busy one. First, we went to Johnny's mom house for Thanksgiving french toast. His step dad can make some mean french toast. We stayed there for a while and Riley got to help Grammie Jenny make her famous sweet potato souffle. Then we went to my mom's house for Thanksgiving Day dinner. My grandparent's were in town from Ohio so it was good for Riley and all of us to spend some time with them. The next day I got up way too early to start my Christmas shopping. I had to get it done with before Riley woke up because Johnny wasn't and still isn't feeling his best. So, there I was waiting in line to get into Target at 5:30. When the doors opened thank goodness I didn't need dvd's or a guitar hero. There were only two of us back at the toys. I was done in 15 min. I did get some good deals however, and was able to snag everything Riley wanted. After Target I ran home just as Ry was waking up grabbed her and off we went. We hit the East Cobb Avenue, Kohl's, Old Navy, and Office Max. Around 12:30 I went home totally exhausted but completely finished. Luckily Johnny slept off some of his illness and allowed me to sleep for a couple of hours. That was the first time I have ever gotten up so early to do the shopping, but I tell ya what its rewarding to be done and not have to worry about it. Now, I can enjoy Riley's birthday which is tomorrow Dec. 2nd, her party the following Saturday, and all the Christmas events that are to come. We had a great break and I am so Thankful and blessed for all the family and friends that I have to. Until next time...PEACE OUT

2008-11-24T12:34:00.000-08:00

We had our sonogram today. I am so excited to announce that we are having a another little girl. Just what big sister Riley wanted. Johnny and I didn't care as long as the baby is healthy. So far so good. We decided that her name is going to be Reese Marie and as of right now she weights 8 ozs. The reason why I haven't felt any movement is because my placenta placed itself on top of the baby and its acting as a barrier between the baby and my stomach. Which I was so glad to hear since at my last doctor's appointment they told me that you tend to feel your second one quicker then the first. Which isn't the case with me. However, she was moving around like crazy she even looked like she kicked herself in the head. Very flexable unlike her mother. My parent's came over yesterday and helped me organize the play room and get the fouton out of the baby's room so now I can make room for the crib. OH I AM SO EXCITED.

2008-11-13T18:22:00.000-08:00

We had a family day on the trails. Here are a few pictures.

2008-11-13T18:19:00.000-08:00

Riley running around the park!

2008-11-13T18:17:00.000-08:00

2008-11-13T18:12:00.000-08:00

Mommy's girl!

2008-11-11T17:02:00.000-08:00

So, my dear dear friend Chelsea stated to me the other night that I was the only person in the free world who didn't have a blog. I guess she is right since my husband even has one for the school that he works at. Right now I guess is the perfect time to start one since we have a lot of things happening right now. I am a the mother of the most beautiful little girl ever Riley who turns three way too soon. She will be a big sister in April, as I am 17 1/2 weeks pregnant. My husband is a teacher at Harrison High School (english) and will soon undergo knee surgery to fix his torn ACL from over a year ago. I am hoping he goes through with it, the sooner the better. My job will be coming to end mid December. I am a nanny and have been with the same family for about 2 years now. They have to move and although it will be sorta sad its good timing since I am going to stay home with new baby for awile. Well I hope this is a good start. I am sure I will become addicted to this.